Lost Hedgehog Tales
CHAPTER 4: KNUCKLES' QUEST PART 1; ANGEL ISLAND
Angel Island, one of Mobius' most majestic landmarks. The island was very large with beautiful mountain regions and grassy plains. There were many residents on Angel Island, mostly the echidnas. But the most amazing thing about this island was the fact that it was in the sky. The beautiful island was able to float in the sky because of one object: The Master Emerald. The Master Emerald was a humongous green colored emerald, that rested in its shrine. The gem was the most powerful of all the Chaos Emeralds and had amazing power. The island used to be part of a mountain but thanks to the technology the echidnas had invented, the island was able to float. In the island's place was a large crater that had become a thriving city known as Downunda. Thanks to the Master Emerald powering the island, it was able to move and was now directly above what used to be a powerful and luxurious kingdom known as Albion. However due to certain events, the kingdom was now nothing more than a bunch of broken and torn down buildings and was currently not inhabited. Angel Island was one of Mobius' most popular legends. People were always trying to find the floating island and take the Master Emerald. However, thanks to the great efforts of an echidna, the emerald was safe. Speaking of which, the echidna was lying down right next to the emerald, looking at the sky. He was a red colored echidna, with spikes on both his fists, red, green and yellow shoes and a crest that seemed to go along his abdominems. The echidna's name was Knuckles. His purple eyes stared at the sky thinking about his life. His life had been... strange. He had lost alot within the past year. Recently, a sinister echidna named Dr. Finitevus had managed to get on the island and corrupted the Master Emerald. With the help of his goons, the Destructix, he was successfully able to capture Knuckles and use the corrupted emerald to turn the red echidna into the terrifying god Enerjak. As the god, Enerjak had used his powers to transport the Dingo population to Sandopolis to start their civilization over as a punishment for their crimes against the echidnas. Then, he had transported the echidnas from the great city of Echidnapolis to the kingdom of Albion. He also used his magic to cleanse the Dark Egg Legion echidnas of their cybernetics and freed Albion's leader Remington. However, some echidnas like Lien-Da, komissar of the now Egg Army, didn't want Enerjak's help and she along with other echidnas stayed with Eggman. Enerjak had then proceeded to attack New Mobotropolis, but was stopped. He and Super Sonic had engaged in a heated battle that could have destroyed the world if not for the efforts of Locke the Echidna, father of Knuckles. Locke had used the Master Emerald and cleared its corruption, thus freeing Knuckles but lost his life in the process. Knuckles had been hunting Finitevus since then. And just a week ago, a sinister tasmanian devil named Thrash had invaded Angel Island and transported all the remaining echidnas along with Knuckles' girlfriend Julie-Su to an unknown location. He had even cleared Albion. Knuckles, along with the help of Team Fighters had fought Thrash, then the echidna had to face the devil alone when Team Fighters had been locked in a fight with Metal Knuckles. The fight was close and Thrash managed to escape. Since then, Knuckles hadn't been himself. The nice, happy guardian was now replaced by a depressed, very serious guardian. The good side was that Knuckles was now even more devoted to protecting the Master Emerald. The bad side, well, he was too devoted. The guardian was always at the shrine 24/7, sometimes not even getting any sleep. Right now, he was doing the usual; guarding the Master Emerald like always. Knuckles closed his eyes, remembering the conflicts. Why is it me all the time? I always mess up and pay for it dearly. Suddenly, a noise was heard and the echidna heard the sound of footsteps running toward him and felt the wind blowing towards him to imply that some was also flying toward him. He then opened one eye and looked at the ones that had disturbed his moment of peace. There were two figures. One was an armadillo with red hair and boots. He also was wearing brown arm-bands and had blue eyes. He also had fingerless gloves. The other was a yellow colored squirrel with blue shoes, blue scar, gray goggles on his head and white gloves. Like the armadillo, the squirrel also had blue eyes. These were two of his friends and allies that lived on Angel Island with him. The armadillo's name was Mighty and like his name, he was known for his strength. He also was an expert at martial arts. The squirrel's name was Ray and he had some unique abilities. He could fly and was a great strategist. The squirrel had a problem with stuttering, but he was slowly starting to get rid of that problem. Knuckles then stood up and crossed his arms, waiting for what they had to say.
"Knuckles, w-we got good n-news!" Ray exclaimed. Mighty nodded. "Like you said, we spent weeks investigating the incident you told us about and we got some info". Knuckles' eyes widened and listened carefully as Mighty explained. "Apparently, Thrash had a vendetta against the echidnas of Albion, who had used and mutated his species for experiments. Being the last of his kind, Thrash, along with his two sisters who were Devil Dogs went to find a way to exterminate the entire echidna population. But after he met you, he decided since you were a sole hero, he would let you live and leave you as the last of your species as revenge", Mighty said. Knuckles fists balled up tight and he closed his eyes gritting his teeth. "All of this... just because my ancestors' had done a sin and now he thinks its funny to leave me as the last of my species!" Knuckles yelled. Ray quickly hid behind Mighty, while the armadillo raised his hands in defense. "Chill, Knux! We haven't even finished explaining yet. We have a lead as to where we can find Thrash. We were investigating Albion, searching for survivors. But there weren't any, sorry. However, we found some papers that Thrash might have dropped". Mighty said. Ray nodded. Knuckles looked at his friends in confusion.
"How do you know it belongs to Thrash?" Knuckles questioned. Mighty and Ray looked at each other. "I-its from Downunda", Ray said. Knuckles' eyes went wide and he nodded. "What's it say?" Mighty then took out a crumpled up paper and handed it to Knuckles. "They're blueprints or something. I dunno what they are but Thrash was definitly planning something". Knuckles smirked. "Well, looks like he won't be doing whatever he had planned anymore. I'm going to Downunda for some answers and then I'm gonna track that devil down and make him pay!" Knuckles said as he pounded his fists together. "Wait, we're coming with you. The guy's dangrous and you might need help", Mighty said. Ray jumped up. "Yea!" Knuckles shook his head. "No. This is my fight. I don't want anyone getting involved. It could also endanger your lives, guys. Besides, someone needs to guard the Master Emerald". Mighty shook his head. "Sorry red, but we're coming with you whether you like it or not. Don't forget, my strength rivals yours and Ray is really good at planning so we'll be alot of help to you. And about the emerald, don't worry. I already had asked the other members of the Chaotix to guard it, so nothing to worry about", Mighty said grinning. Ray jumped with excitement. "Yea, Knuckles! We'll h-help you find that guy and y-you'll get your people back!" the squirrel said. Knuckles smiled. It was good to have friends like this. "Alright, you guys can come", the echidna said. Ray yelled with excitement and Mighty grinned. Knuckles turned and threw a ring which opened up a portal that led to Downunda. I'm coming for you Thrash. Your going to be sorry you ever messed with me.
New Mobotropolis,
The kingdom was doing great. Ever since Naugus' takeover and Elias Acorn's dissapearance, the kingdom had been plagued in a civil war. Half the people were still followers of the Acorn dynasty, while others went to Naugus. However, after recent events the people were friendly toward each other. Recently, Team Fighters had gone on a mission to free Sally from Eggman's control but hadn't returned. Team Freedom was retired now, since Heavy and Bomb had been destroyed and Cream was too young to fight dangerous missions. Rotor's back though, was healing really fast and the walrus was now flexible. And not only that, but something big had gone down in the Pit and now King Naugus was ill and nowhere to be seen. But that didn't stop his apprentice and traitor Geoffrey St. John from keeping order. The skunk was not someone to be messed with. Especially since he had ixis powers like his master. Rosie Woodchuck saw Geoffrey walking along the road, smiling broadly. She sighed.
"G'morning, sir", she said. "How's his majesty feelin'?" Geoffrey smiled. "He's getting better". And with that, the skunk walked away. Rosie shook her head and went back to picking flowers. Geoffrey walked inside Castle Acorn. It had been rebuilt and was shining beautifully. Geoffrey walked inside where the rest of the council members were waiting. The Council of Acorn was the democratic body of New Mobotropolis. It consisted of seven members: Dylan Porcupine, Hamlin Pig, Sir Charles "Chuck" Hedgehog, Rosemary Prower, Penelope Platypus, Isabella Mongoose, and the king himself Ixis Naugus. However, since Naugus was not present Geoffrey took his place. Clearing his throat, the skunk began.
"As you may know, Naugus is currently ill right now. Due to some... recent events, he is not able to make it at the meeting, so he has instructed me to attend it for him", Geoffrey said. The rest of the council members grumbled. They really did not like Naugus and his takeover. "So anyway, as you know the king was disturbed by these group of people whose identities remain unknown. He has specifically ordered more defense built around the city and for authorities to investigate the matter. Once we find these people, they will pay". Geoffrey said coldly. The others mumbled "yessir", not really interested. Unknown to all of them, a certain owl was eavesdropping on the conversation. His name was Harvey Who, director and founder of these group of people. He quietly took out a communicator and whispered in it. "Elias, it seems they're onto you. It is not safe in the city right now, so just stay underground until further notice", he said. "Yes sir", a voice firmly said on the other end of the communicator. Who shut off the communicator and continued to listen to the meeting. Oh, just wait until we carry out our master strike, Geoffrey. Then you and your master will wish you'd never even thought about taking over our kingdom. And with that, Harvey Who walked away.
New Mobotropolis; Freedom HQ
The plane landed smoothly on the runaway and slowly came to a stop. Sonic leapt off the wing and stretched his arms out. "Wooh, man. Good to be home. I sure ain't gonna miss winter anytime soon". Tails exited the plane along with T-Pup and Amy. "Yup, you got that right. I've had enough of snow for a while", Tails said while petting his dog. Amy sighed and took off her coat. "Wow, it feels good to be warm again!" the pink hedgehog exclaimed. Sonic snickered. "Oh, come on Ames. It wasn't that cold". Amy glared at Sonic. "We were in Holoska, Sonic. You may be used to the cold, but I'm not. I have very delicate skin you know", she said. Tails then looked around. "Nothing's destroyed, that's good", he said. Sonic walked up to his best friend. "Happy, now? Dude, you were literally freaking out on what was gonna happen to the city if we left it! I told you there was nothing to worry about. Rotor is smart and a good fighter. Team Freedom had verything under control!" Sonic said, while slapping Tails' back. Amy took a deep breath. "Mmm, feels good to smell something else beside snow and ice and...snow", she said.
"Sonic, Tails, Amy!" someone shouted. Everyone turned to find Rosie Woodchuck running up to them. Amy smiled. "Hey Rosie. What's wrong you look stressed". Rosie frantically shook her head. Sonic frowned. "Is everything alright here?" Rosie nodded. "You missed alot. Team Freedom is no more!" she said. Sonic, Tails and Amy jumped with shock. "WHAT?!" they shouted. Rosie slapped herself. That came out wrong. "I mean, they've disbanded. Rotor's back is better, Vanilla decided to take Cream out and keep her safe after she nearly got killed, Big is still there fit and fine, and Heavy and Bomb were destroyed", she said panting. Team Fighters sighed with relief. Good to know their friends didn't die. Well, aside from Heavy and Bomb. But Uncle Chuck could always rebuild them along with Tails. Sonic laughed. "See, nothing's wrong. Cream is just too young to fight and the two bots could just be rebuilt!" Tails looked at his brother with a are you sure? look. "Well, Heavy and Bomb were destroyed and Team Freedom also disbanded. That's bad enough for me", the fox kit replied. "Oh would you stop your chit-chat already?" Amy said. Sonic then looked at Rosie.
"Hey, what about Naugus? Is he still here?" he asked. Rosie nodded. "Of course, that was stupid", Sonic said. "But he is currently ill, according to Geoffrey. So with Naugus being sick, Geoffrey ruling the kingdom for him", Rosie replied. Sonic pounded his fists. "Cool, so it will be much easier for us now! All we gotta do is kick Stinky St. Jerk's butt and we win!" Rosie sighed. "It... won't be that simple. Geoffrey has magic powers like his master and is more than a match for you. He even took on Team Freedom and defeated them. In fact, he was the one who destroyed Heavy and Bomb and nearly killed Cream", she said. Amy covered her mouth with her hands and Sonic and Tails looked at each other in horror. If Geoffrey had taken on and defeated Team Freedom all by himself, even as going as far as destroying two of their team members, then he was definitly not someone to mess with.
"Oookay, maybe we shouldn't go that far", he said. "Y'know what? Let's go see how Antoine is doing", Sonic said instead. Rosie smiled. "Yes, he is getting better really quickly also. In fact, this morning Dr. Quack made an announcement saying within a few days, he might even wake up!" Sonic, Tails and Amy were overjoyed. "He's gonna wake up? About time!" Sonic said. "Finally, our friend is going to return!" Tails said. "Ohmygosh! Antoine is finally coming back!" Rosie laughed at their excitement. "Well, c'mon! Let's go pay him a visit!" And with that, they left for Tommy Turtle Memorial Hospital to visit their once fallen friend.
Downunda
The thriving city in the crater was blooming with people. Homes were advanced, and the population was so high. In the tallest building, a group of people sat at a table briefing over plans. These were the Downunda Freedom Fighters. They consisted of Walt Wallabee, a kangaroo with a short temper. Then there was Barby Koala, the only female and most intelligent of the team. Wombat-Stu, field combatant. Guru Emu, the only peace keeper of the team and the most odd. And last but not least, Bill Platypus, the team's expert demolitionist and field combatant like Wombat-Stu. Bill also was part of the Dark Egg Legion, before he left when Eggman had supposedly died. They were going over plans to attack the Egg Army base stationed outside Downunda in the Second Colony.
"Okay, so let's go over this again", Walt said. The others groaned. They had done this for hours. "Dude, just chill and let's take a break", Bill said. "Walt, we know what we're gonna do", Barby said. Guru had fallen asleep and Stu was on a phone playing a game. "What? You sure?" the kangaroo said. Bill and Barby nodded. Despite being tough and smart, Walt was extremely gullible. Suddenly, a ring portal opened up in the middle of the room, suprising everyone. Guru woke up with a gasp and shouted, "THE SPIRITS ARE COMING! WE MUST HONOR THEM!" he then proceeded to do a rain dance, but Stu just threw a book at the goose. "Cut it out already!" he said. Out of the portal came Knuckles the Echidna, Mighty the Armadillo and Ray the Flying Squirrel. The Downunda Freedom Fighters immediately saluted the trio, as they had high respect for the Chaotix.
"Welcome, Knuckles! To what service may we be of use for you?" Walt asked. Knuckles smiled and held up his hands. "Guys, no need for the hospitality. I just came for answers", he said. Barby walked up. "What answers? You can ask us anything and we'll hapilly answer", she said. Mighty cleared his throat. "Well, recently Julie-Su and Saffron Bee were ambushed and trapped somewhere in an unknown location", he said. "Oh damn, I'm sorry. What can we do to help?" Bill asked concerned. Knuckles then spoke up. "Yes, well you just have to give us some answers. Anyway the one responsible for that was one of your own... Thrash", he said bitterly. The Downunda fighters gasped. They had never thought Thrash would commit such a crime. "W-what are you saying?" Barby asked, suprised. "Yeah, why would Thrash do that? He's always been pure at heart!" Stu asked. "Well, apparently Thrash had a grudge against Knuckles' species. He is the last of his species, being Mobian Devil. And the rest are now Devil Dogs. This was the work of Knuckles' ancestors and Thrash has been wanting revenge", Mighty said. "Yeah, so w-we thought we could come here for answers and c-clues since he was one of you before", Ray said. Walt stroked his chin. "I mean, I don't know what to say. Thrash was always the noble one and he'd pick us up if we fell. This is so unlikely of him". Knuckles then took out the blueprints. "What's this?" he asked. Bill took it and as he read it, his eyes ent wide.
"H-how in the world...?" he exclaimed. "Th-these are blueprints for that unlimited power warp ring I was working on during my time with the Dark Egg Legion", he said. "After I left, I decided this was too dangerous and threw it away, thus abandoning my work. How in the world did Thrash get these?" he said. Barby then remembered. "Unless, he stole them before you got rid of them. He might've replaced the original ones with the fake!" she exclaimed. "Nonsense, how could that have happened? We all know how smart Bill is and he wouldn't leave something important like this in the open", Walt said. "Well, considering how smart Thrash is, what if he stole them when we were least expecting it?" Knuckles said. "Unless... when we were fighting against the Dark Egg Legion! When we were captured and Bill let us go, he might've snagged them and replaced them!" the echidna said. "No wonder he left right after!" Bill exclaimed. "Well, we gotta destroy this now since we have it" Mighty said. "Oh right", Bill said before taking out a laser gun and completly vaporizing the blueprints completly. "So any clue as to where we can find him?" Knuckles asked. Walt shook his head. "As much as we trusted each other, we knew almost nothing about the guy. He only told us little about himself", the kangaroo exclaimed. "Damnit! So we're back to square one!" Knuckles exclaimed. "Not neccessarily", Guru said. Everyone looked at him in surprised. "Remember? Thrash always used to say that his favorite place to relax and spend time was at Sunset Hill. Maybe you guys could try looking there", the goose said. "That makes sense", Mighty said before looking at Knuckles. The echidna nodded. "Right! So we'll see if he's there. Thanks for everything you guys!" Knuckles said as he threw the warp ring opening it. "No problem, rad red! Anything for the people who helped liberate us!" Walt exclaimed. The Downunda Freedom Fighters waved goodbye as Knuckles, Mighty and Ray walked through the warp ring and set off for Sunset Hill to find Thrash and finally settle this once and for all.
TO BE CONTINUED
*Author's Note: Well here we are, starting off on a brand new arc. Finally we get some new characters and Knuckles begins his own road to recovery. Will he find Thrash and finally be reunited with his lost friends or will they never be found? And what troubles lie in New Mobotropolis? Find out in the next chapter!
EPIC out!