The Dark Eris Arm Saga( CHECK NOTE AFTER CHAPTER 3 P3 PLEASE!)

by Carlata Jones

Staff Sargent Belladonna "Eris" Monroe, one of G.U.N's top fighters, Five Time Extreme Gear Champion known as the Crystal Queen. She thought she had it all, a loving father, friends she loved and cared for deeply, and a hidden love she didn't even know she had. But what happens when a dark Queen from her past comes back to ruin things once again? RatedM for 18 Adult content & more

2. New Life, New Team, New Living hell

(AM: PLEASE READ THE AFTER-AUTHOR NOTES FOR A VERY IMPORTANT UPDATE, THANK YOU. CJ)

DARK ERIS SAGA

CHAPTER 2

NEW LIFE. NEW TEAM. NEW LIVING HELL. ACT 1…

09:00 am... In the hospital wing of Huckshore Jungle Base, the day after Eris and the others departed nearly a week ago. General Risa sits next to the window overlooking the docking bays of the base. Before her on a table is a cup of coffee, and a scone, as well as a stack of files. She looks out the window as she watches her men and women still working on cleaning up after the Deadly Blood Vein Scorpion attack when there comes a knock on her door.

Enter…

General Risa, Ma'am?

AH! Lieutenant General Conner's, it's good to see you again. So tell me how did everything go last night?

Lieutenant General Conners walks into the room closing the door behind him as he takes off his hat.

As I'm sure you know, she wasn't too happy about Shadow joining up with her.

I expected as much. She never did like him for reasons known only to her. Yet now knowing that he knew about her father and didn't tell her…

General Risa lets out a heavy sigh, as her ears fold back and she shakes her head softly.

Well, what can we do now? Everything is in her hands now. Once she set foot outside of the Jungle it was out of our hands. She was let go as promised. So now what she does is up to her. I know she isn't going to be too happy about living with him either.

Do you think it was WISE to do that to her? You do know that given the chance, she will try and take him out. She also blames him for the loss of her mother from what I know and understand, Risa.

That is what I am hoping for if I am being honest.

General, Risa?!

Please, calm yourself, Lieutenant General Conners, and let me explain.

Ma'am?

Have a seat.

Rise turns around her seat as Conners takes the seat across from her. As he takes a seat she keeps looking out the window of her room. For a few moments more, she doesn't say anything, making Conners wonder if she was going to say anything at all. But she looks over at him and pushes the stack of files over to him.

It's like this, Conners. With everything that happened, she blames Shadow for so much of it, and maybe some of it IS his fault, maybe not. Who knows? But I and Maxwell believe, among a few others, he is the key to healing her.

What do you mean, Ma'am?

Rise holds up her hand and shakes her head.

For now, let's drop formalities and keep what you are about to hear between us, Conners.

As you wish, Risa. So what do you mean he could be the key to healing her?

Eris has a darkness in her right now. One that everyone knows about, and wishes they could forget. Or I guess I should say they all HAVE forgotten. Even Eris herself.

Ma'am...I mean Risa, what are you talking about?

Do you remember when the Black Arms invaded Mobius, Conners?

How could I forget? I lost family that day, my wife, and my unborn child to those MONSTERS. Not to mention my mother and father as well. My younger sister barely made it out alive, thank CHAOS she did, with only the memories to show for it. She's the only family I have left now.

Yes, I remember all too well. Speaking of which, how is Moira doing?

Conners chuckles out as he scratches the back of his head sheepishly.

Funny you should ask about that, Risa.

Oh?

Yeah, she's expecting her first child in six months.

Really now!? That is wonderful news. Congratulations.

Thanks, Risa. So you were saying?

Right, right. As I was saying, and from my understanding, the Black Arms were never evil beings. They were in fact, once good aliens.

WHAT!? Risa come now, are you crazy? The Black Arms. Peace Loving Aliens. Why that is about as believable as saying that Ivan Robotnik is the King of Mobius!

I know, Conners. I know, but it is true. Don't ask me how I know, but I think you should read the files. Read them first, and I'll continue with what I am about to tell you.

Conners looks over at her, tilting his head when she nods gently at him. Taking the files he picks the top one up that was fairly decent in size and had a big bold, CLASSIFIED, in red ink, stamped on the cover as he opens it and starts to read the file. After a moment of scanning the first two pages, it was as if his mind was on overdrive. He kept turning page after page and picking up file after file reading everything over, even going back to some to double-check things he could have missed. About an hour later, he looks at her, both shocked, and horrified at what he was seeing.

R-R-Risa, this can't be true!?

I'm afraid it is. Everything you've looked over in all five files is true. Only some of us know about the truth, and I was sent these files by some unknown person. I don't know HOW they got a hold of them, but I found them on my desk one morning, in a box with a note.

A...note?

Yes, all it said was to keep them safe and hidden till the time was right, and when the time comes they would get a hold of me.

Did they ever get a hold of you?

They have yes, and I will not go into details of who they are. Or what it is they are planning.

Why do I get the feeling if you told me I wouldn't like it?

Because you wouldn't. Just know that what I have done will more than likely cost me my job once everything comes full cycle.

I...See. Then what about Eris?

Right, Eris…

Risa sighs out once again as she leans back in her seat, letting her head fall back. She rubs her eyes with her thumb and index finger till she brings them together to pinch the bridge of her nose.

Risa…?

Sighing out once more, she sits up and looks at him. Her golden eyes take on a hard look as she finally speaks.

Eris, alongside Shadow, are the last of the Black Arms Royal Family. It is quite possible that Eclipse The Darkling is still alive and he is of the royal family as well.

Risa…

Risa holds up her hand to silence him as she goes on.

Eris has a darkness in her, Conners. And with everything I am risking right now, Shadow could be the only one to save her from it. As I said, don't ask me how I know all of this, who my contact is, or anything at all. I won't have you risking your lively-hood for me. Just know that as we speak, the darkness that is within her is slowly waking up and it will be very soon.

How soon are we talking?

If my calculations are correct, it should have already started.

Risa?

Eris had to change the timeline when she was younger. In order to save everyone. In doing so it altered many things. Including Black Doom leading the Black Arms and changing their personalities to blood-thirsty monsters. She, nor many others remember anything from that time.

Who else remembers the truth? The REAL truth?

It is hard to say honestly. For all I know there could have been a small few that survived somehow with the changing of the timelines, and remember everything. But only a small few. This is only a guess. A theory if you would. But it is quite possible. Anyway, believe it or not, Layla, Maxwell's late wife, was a Black Arms Princess, as you have read in the files.

I did, yes. But it also said that Eris was born like any other Mobian. So what does that mean?

Though born like a Mobian, she is still Black Arms. Much like Shadow is, even though he was created. As you know, Shadow was created via DNA from Black Doom and made to look like a Mobian. Nonetheless, he is a Black Arms. But with Eris, as stated she was born. She, somewhere deep within her subconscious mind, knows who she truly is, and the real truth of everything. Even her love for Shadow.

WHAT!?

Risa nods as she keeps going.

The darkness I speak of…

Out on I road 186 1300 Hours present-day…

Is none other than Black Trinity herself. And if she manages to take hold of Eris it could be the end for us all. She will stop at nothing to kill her. But if she becomes strong enough she will free herself from Eris and gain a new stronger body. Leaving Eris nothing more than an empty shell of her former self.

Risa, you don't mean that…

I do. A new age of The Black Arms will rise, and there could be nothing to save us this time around. All of Mobius will be done unless Shadow can figure out the prophecy and save her before it is too late. But I fear that due to the battle last night they had. Her anger. Her grief, and sorrow, it could be too late and things have been set into motion.

Meaning WHAT, Risa?

Meaning that Trinity could be on the rise right now as we speak…

Eris and the others had been on the road for nearly a week now, driving to Shiny Star City. It was a long tiring drive from the Huckshore Jungle Base, and a HOT one to boot. Summer was moving in fast and would be here in just a few more days. Though with this trip in hand, it was already hot, with temperatures reaching into the eighties, with a high of eighty-five as the high for today, making an already moody and annoyed, Eris, even more, moody and annoyed as was. She had been in a mood ever since Lieutenant General Conners put Shadow on her team, via General Risa's orders. She had yet to stop griping about it. But she couldn't complain too much. As promised, she was now free of being G.U.N's stupid lap dog for a time. And with summer came her favorite pastime. Heading to the beach and relaxing on the beach every chance she got and trying on new bikinis...So long as it hides her birthmark that is. Other than that, she was fine with it. No one but her mother, father, that traitorous bitch Risa, and now three of her team knew about it, one being that ANNOYING black hedgehog.

Though, he told her he had known about it for a long time now, and only started to tease her about it ever since they left the base. As if her new life couldn't get any worse than it was right now. It was bad enough that she was FORCED to add Shadow to her team, and to top it off she needed to find twelve new members for her team for the upcoming World Grand Prix, happening soon. That there alone would be near IMPOSSIBLE! Right now as it was, she barely had enough members for the preliminaries. She was down two members, just to do them, AND PASS them. She had NO idea how that was going to happen and in such a short amount of time, with so much going on right now. It would take at least three months alone to settle on her family's estate grounds, in the Cabin Mansion that had been in her family for as long as she could remember. Then after she and the others would have to set out to find more team members in Shiny Star City. Sky's dad has a shop which would help in the long run, and Skye would be taking it over why Tails was gone with his Wife Mina Mongoose and his sister Melody, why they were away on Angel Island seeing King Sonic and Queen Sally, and the royal Twins, Prince Manik, and Princess Sonia, for one of there get together they had every few months. Skye wished he could go this year but right now, Eris needed him by her side, and his parents knew it too and would tell Sonic and Sally what was going on.

The night before, the group had stopped at an Inn for some rest and hot showers, and to change into normal clothing. The G.U.N units told them they would be arriving in Shiny Star sometime tomorrow, thus today, and had given Eris some files of new potential team members to look over as Jax drove. She did look them over, but her mind was someplace else right now, one being how she wanted to kill Risa right now for forcing her to take that stupid Bio-Freak with her and put her on her team. Unborn child or not. Growling out Eris slams her fists on the dashboard of the truck, making Jax jump and swerve a bit due to being surprised.

CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS!? HOW COULD THAT STUPID SABER-FANG DO THIS TO ME!? FORCING ME TO TAKE THAT BIO-FREAK ONTO MY TEAM! MY TEAM JAX!

Jax sighs out as he glances at her, shaking his head some.

I don't know, but can you really defy her now? I mean even though we're no longer G.U.N's lapdogs, aren't they giving us everything we need to live off of? Nonetheless, he is a pro at Extreme Gear Racing. So he could prove to be a valuable asset if you think about it.

Eris growls out and slowly looks over at him, her eyes narrow to deadly slits as Jax glances over and sees her overly pissed off.

SHUT IT JAX! OR I'LL THROW YOU OUT OF THIS TRUCK WHY IT'S STILL GOING!

OK OK cool it Wildfire. Sheesh. Just calm down.

Calm down? CALM DOWN!? HOW THE HELL CAN I CALM DOWN WHEN YOUR ALL BUT AGREE WITH THAT BACKSTABBING SABER-FANG!

Look, All I am saying is what Lieutenant General Conners pulled back there was low. Even if it was coming from Risa. I know you hate the guy I get it. A lot of us still do. But you can't deny the fact he is good when it comes to Extreme Gear, and he could be the one who wins us the preliminaries this year.

Eris looks at him a bit longer till she sighs out, and leans back in her seat annoyed. She folds her arms in a huff, knowing he was right, and hating it. Seeing she wouldn't fight him anymore about it, he sighs out. Her left ear turns to him as she narrows her eyes once more and softly growls out as she swipes the mic to the CB radio.

Team Rider, this is Team Wildfire, over.

Jax looks over at her, raises an eyebrow, and chuckles out.

What? I like it. So sue me.

Very well, Dinner once we get to town.

Fair enough.

Jax chuckles once more, as Skye's voice comes over the radio.

Team leader, this is Team Rider over.

Get my gear ready NOW, Skye. I need a mega Mundo breather right now. There's a stop coming up, will meet up there.

Roger, Eris, I'll send word now.

Thanks.

Are you sure this is a good idea, Eris? I mean…

FUCK THE OTHERS SKYE! I'M IN CHARGE HERE NOT THEM! SO WHAT I SAY GOES! NOW GET MY GEAR READY!

Right away, Eris.

Skye sighs out before hanging up. She puts the Mic back on its holder and tells Jax to head for the stop up ahead. Adjusting his course he heads to the rest stop and within fifteen minutes they are there. Everyone starts getting out and stretching, as the driver to the base makes sure that the back of the truck is facing the road when someone comes over to her.

MONROE! WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS UNSCHEDULED STOP!?

Growling out pissed as she turns around with a fold of her arms she glares at the guy coming over to her.

SHUT It, Richards!

The man named Richards stopped in his tracks and looked at her, clearly pissed right now for the unexpected stop. Richard himself stood at 6'4" feet tall. Fairly average for a human. He, unlike Shadow, Jax, and Skye, was in a standard G.U.N uniform along with a few other men who were now coming out of the trucks to stretch out. Richards growls out as he storms over to Eris pointing a finger at her.

Now you listen here, Monroe! I was put in charge of this relocation of you and your team and I intend to get it right!

Eris growls out smacking his hand away from her as she points her finger at him.

NO, YOU LISTEN RICHARDS! I DON'T GIVE A FUCKING RATS SMELLY ASS IF YOU'RE SECOND LIEUTENANT OR NOT! OR EVEN IF YOU ARE A FEW RANKS ABOVE ME! I AM THE ONE IN CHARGE HERE, NOT YOU! AND IF YOU DON'T LIKE THEN THAT IS YOUR FUCKING PROBLEM! BECAUSE WHAT I SAY GOES! AND I SAY WE'RE STOPPING SO I CAN GET ON MY EXTREME GEAR AND GET THE FUCKING HELL AWAY FROM ALL OF YOU! BECAUSE IF I DON'T DO IT NOW SOMEONE IS LIABLE TO END UP HURT! IS THAT UNDERSTOOD!?

She and Richards stare one another down, neither backing down. Richards looks right at her, growling out, both were pissed off right now. Both for different reasons. But right now it looked like she was ready to beat the shit out of him when Shadow saw immediately what was going to happen and walked over to them. He steps up and places a hand on Richards's shoulder to try and calm him down. Richards looks over growling out, as Shadow steps forward.

Let it go Lieutenant Richards.

What!? But...

I said let it go! Right now a ride on her Gear is what she needs. We'll go on ahead without her, and head to her place and get things settled. From here on in I'll take the lead. IF that is alright with you… TEAM Leader Wildfire.

Eris growls out holding up a fist as she looks at Shadow. They hold their gaze for a moment till Eris scoffs out and folds her arms looking away.

That's PERFECTLY fine by me… you Factory REJECT. Now get the hell out of my way so I can change.

With that, she pushes both Shadow and Richards out of her way and walks over to the EGT Base Truck, and pushes a button on the side. It was three hundred feet long and housed everything she and her team needed. Right now it didn't look like much, but most of it was hidden at the moment except for three large containers. All six single containers were fifty feet long by fifty feet wide, and thirteen feet and six inches in height. Not counting the sleeping areas on top when opened. When it was opened it was twenty-four feet in height The sleeping area was seven feet high by three hundred feet long and could hold all fifteen members of the team. Though now that she was down to like a dozen team members right now it did little good. It possessed a super high-tech state of the art almost beyond its year's tech and more. It featured a fully working electronic setup as well as a kitchen, gym, bath, and more.

The bath and showers all had a time set schedule for both men and women on the team, and all sleeping areas were nice and roomy so no one felt cramped. Eris' room was just a bit bigger than the others with being the team leader. She had the right to, with being ranked and it came with perks in the end. Each room box was soundproofed and had a small door connected to it for maximum privacy, and that went for Eris' room as well. The kitchen had high-tech everything, from a big fridge/freezer for food and lots of cupboards and places for things and the lounging area forty foot big screen full wall TV with state of the art games and DVD player.

The Tech Lab had everything the team could need for both races and battles. Skye's shop was where he worked on the Extreme Gear. The holding docks were where the boards were kept as well as housing the dressing area. The gym had everything the team could need to keep in shape and an Extreme Gear simulator to help the team practice for races. It even had combat settings as well. When and if the driver ever needed to rest, the entire vehicle could be put on autopilot with no worries. When on the road, the trailer could compress into itself, like an accordion, leaving only a hundred and fifty feet visible. If it truly needed, it was possible to leave only the lounge/kitchen area and Skye's shop, and the holding bay visible, that would throw off any pursuers nicely.

Everything else within the other containers was either hidden within the walls or else the floors and ceiling. This left only the lounge and kitchen areas open. Most of the time, Skye's workshop and the holding docks would be left visible. The rig itself was a whopping 25 tons, a 36-wheeler to the fullest. It even had its own Wi-Fi as well, and to top it off it was battle-ready at all times. The technology was the most powerful portable on or off-road type Skye ever developed. On the outside, it looked like any fancy luxury rig, but it had some of G.U.N's top tech in it to protect anyone on board or around it with a push of a button. This bad boy could go from a luxury home to a deadly battle machine in 2.5 seconds flat. It also featured titanium-diamond armor along with windows. And hardly anything at all could penetrate this bad boy's hull. On the outside, it was painted in a metallic-umbra effect of dark amethyst and midnight blue with gold accents, and the team's logo was emblazoned along the side. A nearly fully eclipsed sun with just a sliver of it still showing and a comet shooting around past it was part of the artwork.

They were team Cosmic Eclipse, the best racing team out there since King Sonic's time.

Walking in, Eris walked into Skye's workshop in the hangar bay. Once there she headed back to the dressing rooms and walked into one; the door automatically closed behind her and the lights went on automatically.

A small computer pad showed itself on the wall next to the mirror and Eris input her name and code. All at once, all her racing outfits showed up on a hologram in the mirror.

She went to use the holo interface, and she scrolled through the entries to find something that best suited her for the time being. After about five minutes of looking she settled on a nice little number, and she hits enter. A small compartment opened up and Eris took out the outfit she wanted and got dressed. It took her about five minutes to get dressed and once done she walked out of the room and headed back outside. Everyone was waiting on her and when she came out everyone stared at her, even a couple of the G.U.N soldiers let out low little wolf whistles, causing Shadow to growl at them and look away as one of his eyes twitched in annoyance. Eris was in a tiny bit of a scandalous outfit. Nothing too bad but enough to make heads turn and jaws drop.

She had on a pair of short shorts that were pink denim. Underneath, she had white see thru tights and pink socks over them. She wore a bright pink belt to match with a rhinestone heart and crossbones buckle. Her top was a pink, gray, and white camouflage. It was a little bit see-through, and it fit her very snugly showing off her amazing shape.

On it was a skull and crossbones with rhinestone hearts for eyes. Over everything, she wore a white with a pink trim mini hooded jacket, and on the back was the same skull and crossbones done all in rhinestones.

She wore a matching camouflage white, pink and gray bandanna on her head, and had a pair of fingerless gloves on. They were her trademark, with pink trim on the elastic and rose gold metal plates on them from which she could release her Titanium Crystal claws.

Her hair was in a high ponytail hanging down with the exception of a couple of small braids. She had on Black-rocker sunglasses trimmed with gold and had added a few gold bangles to her wrists as well. Around her neck, she had her gold and ruby locket from her parents, and on her left hip was a rose-gold colored iPod with a pair of matching earbuds. She had on some pink lip gloss that shined in the sun. When she removed her sunglasses her eyes had eye shadow on in a dark purple color. In her ears, she had four gold studs. On the right ear, the first stud was connected to the fourth one with a star hanging on it, along with a pair of golden hoop earrings. She had on white and pink soled boots with gold buckles. As she stepped down from the trailer, Eris paused and looked at everyone. As she strutted by, she stopped in front of Richards and smiled as she looked around at everybody.

Enjoying the show Richards? 'Cuz I think a few of your men are, that's for sure. And Shadow no need to be all jelly, Bio-Freak. Let the boys have their eye candy for now.

BELLADONNA!

Shadow yells at her as she lets out a chuckle and looks over at him, her eyes narrowing and not moving away from him as she speaks to Jax.

Jax, you're in charge till we meet at my place. No way am I letting this FACTORY REJECT take point. He'll more than likely botch things up and get you all killed. Like he did my father a few months back.

Shadow growls out as he narrows his eyes at her as he holds a fist up. Even now to this day, she was not letting it go that he knew of her father and everything that was to happen and blamed him for his death. They hold their gaze for a moment longer till Skye comes over and places a hand on Shadow's shoulder. He glances at him and scoffs out as looks away and folds his arms, folding his ears back.

Uh…Sure thing Eris.

Jax tells her, as he looks between her and Shadow.

SKYE, you got my board ready?

Yes, I do, but I have yet to fully test it out. I managed to get the rest of the fine-tuning done but as far as a ground test goes, I have yet to put it through its paces.

Then I guess it's your LUCKY day then hmm?

With that said she walked over to the back hull where the loading docks were and pushed a side panel open, inputting a code. As soon as she did that the back of the loading bay opened up letting sunlight inside. She walked over to it, calling out to Sky.

Let's go, Skye! Get my board prepped and send out S-Pup on the double!

RIGHT ERIS!

Skye ran into the docking bay to get the Crystal Rose ready for take-off.

The rest of you get back in your trucks and listen to Jax, he's in charge now till we hit home. And Richards?

Yes, Monroe?

It sucks to be you right now, doesn't it?

With that she walked inside, chuckling out as she put her shades on, and once inside she hopped on her board as Skye finished prepping it to go. Skye walks over to her as he types away at a small handheld tablet and walks over to Eris and hands it to her as she places her hand on it and suddenly the entire bay springs to life!

Her board slowly lifted up with a soft hissing sound, as she readied herself. Lights snapped on. The wall to Skye's workshop opened and everything inside the compartments and along its walls slowly started to recede into the rest of the trailer. During all of this, the tech lab slowly began to take shape taking over the place of Skye's Workshop as it slid backward and into the storage areas. All the tech in the lab, computers, sound equipment, radar, and other things revealed themselves from the floors and walls. Skye walked into the Tech Lab, placed an earpiece in his left ear, and started to tap away at the computer's keys. Within moments a compartment opened, and a robotic dog walked out. It made a series of barks as it walked up to Eris. The dog was wagging its tail causing Eris to smile and get an all too familiar racing face on.

Testing 1, 2, 3… testing... Can you hear me Eris?

Loud and clear Fox boy! So let's do this!

Right! S-Pup will follow you around and record your movement, and any data I can gather will improve the Crystal Rose's performance. We'll stay in contact through S-Pup should anything happen. And if anything does happen, send S-pup back immediately. I Know you know the way to the house, but input the data just in case, just follow it and we'll meet you there. Both tanks are full and she's all ready to go. And your reserve tank is topped off as well should your main run out. That ought to keep you going for a little bit! You should hit SSC within about 3 hours. There are Air pumps along the way; S-Pup will show you should you need them. But with how I've prepped your Air Board you shouldn't need to refill till you hit the outskirts of SSC and even by then you should be OK with your reserve tank.

Copy that, Skye.

OK, all hands, counting off in...3…2...1…

With that, Skye hits a button and he released Eris's board which flew out of the docking bay; she pressed down on the back end of her board causing air to gather and build up for a power boost. The moment she let go of it, the Board sent her flying forward. It sent a powerful air blast from behind her, which took everyone off guard, sending Richards and his men flying back into the dirt. Jax covered his face up, which he was already prepared for. Shadow had to dig his hands and his heels into the dirt as he was pushed backward, leaving grooves in the dirt. And before anyone could say anything she and S-Pup were completely gone and clean out of sight. And all they could hear was a distant…

"OOOOOHHHH YEEEEAAAAH!"

On the wind. Once the wind died down and everything settled, everyone picked themselves up and brushed the dirt off themselves. Richard let out a low growl, as he was highly pissed off. He looked away from where Eris had been and headed back to his truck. Richards started shouting orders to every troop he could see.

ALRIGHT EVERYONE LET'S GET OUTTA HERE! WE'RE MOVING OUT NOW!

A voice sounded off right after his, a voice that Richards would come to detest later on.

HOLD IT RIGHT THERE! I'M the one in charge Richards; everyone around here heard Eris.

Jax called out after him.

So we leave when I SAY we leave. And right now I think this is the perfect time for a lunch break? Don't you think so, Shadow?

Shadow looked over at him scoffing out as he walked off to the hanger bay and waved Jax off.

Do whatever the hell you want. I'm going to go help, Skye.

Okay then... listen up Richards. I know that you're pissed right now. I get it. I would be too. But right now Eris needs to clear her head. You weren't in the truck with her, I was. And let me tell you, it was scary shit. I was looking at her from the corner of my eye every second I got. Worried she would attack me, the anger coming off her was powerful enough to make the fur on the back of my neck stand on end. So if you want to go and follow her and piss her off even more, AND likely get yourselves KILLED… Then be my guess. But the rest of us are gonna stay here for the next hour or so and just chill for now.

Richard shot a glare at Jax knowing he was probably right. Sighing, he just nodded.

Ok FINE!. But ONE hour. And ONLY one hour and not a moment more.

Jax nodded as he clapped his hands together.

It's A Deal. Now let's go eat. I heard the kitchen on this thing is only to be outdone by some, and not all five-star restaurants!

~~~Back at Huckshore Base hospital wing present-day… 1400 hours~~~

General Risa was finishing buttoning up her shirt when there came a knock on her door.

Enter!

The door opens and in walks Lieutenant General Conners.

Ma'am, you called for me?

Yes, I did. I take it you've read everything over more thoroughly?

Yes, I have but I am confused about something?

Which is?

The fact of Trinity's new body. The files and you both said that she will gain a new one, meaning what? It didn't say anywhere in the files how she would achieve that.

Yes, I am well aware of that. Even I nor my contact know, but there could be someone who does. But he's been lost to the G.U.N files for a long time.

Who is that?

Dr. Issa Long. I guess he was a follower of hers and helped her. So my guess is he is still alive and is preparing for her to come back. Meaning that he could already have found a new body for her. But who or what kind of body is yet to be discovered. Right now our top priority should be to hunt him down and find out. That is if we can find him. He has been in hiding for a long, long time. And every file we have on him is gone. More than like his doing. There could be one other who knows his whereabouts, but it's a long shot. Follow me, Lieutenant General.

Ma'am?

General Risa heads to the door and opens it walking out, with Conners right behind her. They head on down the hallway and out of the hospital wing, and to the archives. As she enters everyone stands to attention.

GENERAL RISA, MA'AM!

At ease everyone.

They nod and go back to work, as Risa calls someone over.

You, Soldier.

The soldier who was walking past stops and salutes her.

Yes Ma'am?

I need access to the top-secret files if you would please.

Right away, Ma'am! If you would follow me, please?

Nodding She and Conners do so why Conners speaks.

Risa, what are we doing here?

There is something I wish to see, and I need you with me. Remember, Lieutenant General, I said there could be someone who knows where Dr. Issa Long could be at. But he hasn't been seen in years. More than likely the old boy is retired. But if my hunch is right, then it could help us in the end.

As they walk down the hallway, they soon come to a room and the soldier lets them in. The soldier goes over to a computer and starts typing away.

Ma'am I'll need your clearance code to access the files.

Right, I'll take it from here, you may leave now, and tell NO one that we were here, do you understand?

The soldier salutes her as they answer.

Yes, Ma'am!

You may go.

Nodding, the soldier takes their leave as Risa goes over and locks the door and heads back to the computer, and types in her clearance code. After a moment the computer grants her permission and she starts looking up what she needs and soon finds it with a smile. Conners looks up at the computer screen and gasps out.

Risa!? Are you sure?

Yes, he could be the key to finding Dr. Issa Long.

But it says here, he's dead.

Oh no, I happen to know that he is very much alive and living a peaceful life in solitude with his family, on a little island in the Eastern hemisphere. We had been keeping an eye on him but since he hasn't been posing any threats for years, we decided to lock his files away, presume he is dead, and let him live in peace with his family.

Strange how becoming a family man can change someone at times.

Indeed. But not always. Lieutenant General Conners!

Upon hearing her tone Conners at once stands to attention and salutes her.

Ma'am!

I want you to take over why I am gone. You're in charge till I get back.

Ma'am?!

Conners looks at her as he rests his arm at his side.

I'm going to go visit our friend and see if he knows anything. He could be a valuable asset to us in the long run. I need you to keep this between us, do you understand? And I want all the video files erased of us in here. I want NOTHING leading to what it is I am doing. To what we are doing. Do you understand?

Yes, Risa. But do you truly believe he could help?

Conners and Risa once again look at the screen and at a gray billed platypus, with red eyes and pince-Nez glasses. He had a side Mohawk with the front portion having a purple-gray stripe in the middle of it.

Come Conners I must get ready for a long flight ahead of me, and remember to tell no one.

Yes Ma'am.

Nodding, they leave the room and right away Conners sets about erasing the video files of their findings and how they were looking up top-secret files. Once done, and making sure no one told anyone anything, they leave as General Risa heads off to start preparations for her leave. As she parts with Conners, she heads back to her office where she locks the door up and closes the blinds, shrouding her in slight darkness. She looks around for a moment as she heads to the middle of the room and closes her eyes, allowing her senses to take over for a moment. Her whiskers twitch as her ears adjust to any sound, even the slightest of movements. After a time she opens her eyes, as her whiskers pick something up. Heading over to where she felt the electromagnetic waves, she walks over to her bookshelf and picks up a small statue of a duck and looks under it, and finds a hidden sound device. Growling out, she walks around the room and finds three more and once again checks to make sure no one can hear her. Happy she heads over to a portion of the wall and presses on a spot that reviles at a hand scanner. Placing her hand on it scans her hand and beeps a couple of times as the wall next to it opens up and shows a small computer. It turns on and a face shows up on it.

Hello, Egg Boss Risa. I was wondering when I would hear from you, Ma'am.

There is no time for pleasantries, Second in charge, Mali- Fa. I need to know where Eris is now!

Out on I Road 186…

Eris went flying by on her board as the trees and rocky hills went flying past her in a blur. It had been two hours now since she left the others behind at the last stop, and it was more than likely they were still that far behind. But for now, it just felt great having the wind on her face and blowing through her fur once more. She missed this more than anything in the world right now.

Following slightly behind her and surprisingly enough, but otherwise keeping up with her was S-Pup. It was still recording everything she did. S-Pup was a lot like T-Pup. Tails' old Support unit.

S-Pup was built by Skye himself. S-Pup was a lot like his predecessor. He was a support bot that helped the entire team out as needed. But it was more advanced than his father's old T-Pup. S-Pup was used for gathering data on the team primarily for races. He recorded everything they did during training and helped them out during actual races as well. He carried within him some bottled water if anyone needed it and a first aid kit inside him. He also kept track of the team's vital signs as well when out on the track or training as well, along with numerous other functions built into him. Unlike the old T-Pup, S-Pup was a lot bigger, about the size of a German Shepherd. Or to be more precise, just like A-X-L from Eris' favorite movie. S-Pup was high in the skies watching Eris's every movement not once straying from her. As they were flying around they ended up coming to an intersection and Eris came to a full stop, stepped off her gear, and held it, looking to the left and then to the right.

What do you think S-Pup?

S-Pup hovered next to her, looking left and right, tilting his head. He took to the air for a moment and scanned the area on both sides and ahead. He came back and landed beamed her up a holographic image with his eyes with full imagery of all sides.

Hmm? I know where to head to SSC, and it's another hour out, and we do have time to go look around the Wildlife Park, which I'm assuming would be SSC National Wildlife Park since there's no sign saying otherwise, man it's been ages since I've been back home, I had no idea this was here now, not to say I wonder how much runs into my land as well and combines with it? I guess I'll find out once we get home, besides it would be nice just to stay away for a few more hours. I'm not ready to head back yet and start my so-called "NEW LIFE" with that little effing HEDGEHOG yet.

Eris sighed and looked at S-Pup who whined out and shut the holo map off and nuzzled her gently. She gives him a pat and a sad smile as she looks the way she should be going as her ears fall back on their own. She closes her eyes and thinks for a moment with a heavy sigh.

"Oh, daddy, must I do this? Must I let him in like you and mom both wanted? How can I when he knew you were there and didn't tell me? How can I forgive someone who all but KILLED you? But that day when he saved me from meeting the same fate as you? Was it real? Or was it my imagination? No, it was my imagination. There was no way that FREAK of nature could have felt so much guilt and remorse for killing you that day. He is pure evil. Plain and simple."

Eris clenches a first as she remembers that day. The day Shadow had caught her as she fell from the sky after she defeated Ivan and his robot as she started to blackout. Even to this day, she denied it. Denied the fact he could feel anything at all. He was nothing but a murderous MONSTER… But yet…No…No, she wouldn't have it. She wouldn't think that way. She wouldn't let that bastard behind her walls and to her heart. She would NEVER forgive him for killing her father. Her mother. And taking the only family she had left. He was nothing but a parasite that Mobius needed to be rid of. And she would be the one to do it. Even if it killed her in the end. As she stands there thinking, she feels something nudging her and she looks down at S-pup who whines out worried about her. Narrowing her eyes and looking to the right, the way she was supposed to go, she growls out and throws her gear down, and readies herself. S-pup seeing her ready to go trotted to the left side leading up to the Wildlife Park and barked. Nodding her head at him, she pushes off and heads northeast to the wildlife park with S-Pup running behind her with a tap pa-click, tap-pa-click, tap-pa-click, almost like a horse's gallop, sounding constantly behind her and barking happily.

You know I'm glad Skye put an AI chip in you. You've grown so much over the years since the day he created you. Out of almost everyone you've understood me the best out most, and I couldn't be happier. You've become one of my closest best friends. Heh e, for a robot dog that is.

He started barking at her and jumped into the air folding his legs under him; he activated his propulsion system and zoomed off ahead of her.

Oh?! So you wanna be like that, you bucket of bolts? Then bring it!

S-Pup turned his head and stuck his tongue out at her in between barks and picked up speed. Eris followed right behind him laughing…

Back at the mobile base unit…

Shadow was in the tech lab with Skye. They were on the road once more and had been the last two hours since they left the rest stop. He was brooding as usual, as he leaned against a wall with a foot folded upon it, and his arms folded across his chest. He just stood there like that for a while with his eyes closed, thinking about something…from long ago... when Skye looked over at him.

You know that brooding won't help anything right?

Skye cocked an eyebrow upward, looking right at him. Shadow scoffed and pushed himself off the wall with his foot, walking over to him. He sighed as he looked up at the screens, pressing a few buttons that brought up a visual of Eris' vitals and heart rate, and sighed once more, seemingly defeated.

Shadow? What's wrong? And don't say 'nothing'. I know you well enough by now, to know that something is bothering you.

Who do you think you are, Rouge?

Rouge the bat could always tell when something was bothering him. Just like now, how Skye could tell.

Shadow?

He looked up and met Skye's eyes and shook his head at him.

It's nothing, so don't worry. I'm okay. It's nothing...for now at least.

At…least?

Skye looks at him with a tilt of his head, a bit confused.

It's just that something's been bothering me of late and I can't put my finger on it. It was something from a long time ago.

You mean about Maria? The girl I heard about?

Shadow looked at Skye, a bit surprised that he knew about her at all, but not so much since a lot of his friends knew that story and more than likely told Skye the story as a kid. Shadow smiled a little bit, sighing out and shaking his head.

No. It's something a bit more recent. From about twenty years ago, if that far back, during the Black Arms invasion. And a few more years after it.

What do you mean?

To be honest TJ, I don't know? I really don't. It's just that all of a sudden all those events for some strange reason are coming back, and I can't help but feel Eris is tied with them somehow. It's like something is missing and nothing is adding up at all. I've been having these weird dreams. And I don't understand them or get what's going on. But I know they are trying to tell me SOMETHING, almost as if something is about to happen and I don't know what it is or when it will be.

Is this why you and she have been at one another's throats of late?

Skye asks a bit sadly.

I dunno? I mean… I think so? I can't help but feel something deep within her is about to wake up and it could be bad news. Like something from both our pasts will return somehow. In some shape or form. It...worries me.

Shadow folds his arms and closes his eyes tightly as images flash before his mind's eye. Images he remembers nothing about, yet at the same time feels as if he should remember them. As he tries to remember what these images in his mind eye were all about a call comes through the com on the wall, alerting Shadow who opens his eyes and walks over to answer it.

Yeah, Jax?

Hey, you two are nearing SSC now and you may wanna shut things down till we hit the new place and unload.

Sure thing Jax.

Shadow ended the call and looked at Skye with a sigh.

Don't worry about her. She has S-pup with her so she'll be fine. And she knows to send him back should something go wrong.

Shadow sighed and walked off, hitting a button on the wall making everything in the tech lab slowly recede into the walls and floor. But not before Skye caught something in Eris' vitals and tilted his head at it. He only caught a glimpse of it, so for now he put it off, and decided to look into it later. Skye knew Eris would be okay on her own. He knew that as long as she had S-Pup with her she would be fine and her readings would still keep coming in as long as he was with her.

Meanwhile, Back near the Wildlife Park…

Eris and S-pup arrived at the SSC Wildlife Park and were already deep within the woods. There were some nice places here and there to practice her moves, and S-Pup was getting everything. After a time Eris checked her air tanks and saw that they were only half full. So she decided it was time to go exploring the woods for fun and see what hidden wonders it held. Eris had picked up a pamphlet on the way in and it told her that SSC Wildlife Park was the largest of three. Though it didn't tell her how big the place was or if it ran onto family's lands or not. But it was filled with hidden wonders and she wanted to find them all, or as most as she could for the time being.

They had stayed on the path for the most part but soon they came across a hidden little-used pathway and she decided to head down it. Her ears twitched in the soft breeze she was getting from slowly riding on her board. S-Pup was next to her walking along sniffing at everything. Eris had turned on his canine mood for the time being just so they could enjoy the things around them for now.

After about two hours they come across a hidden meadow of some kind. Had she not fully been paying mind to every little thing like S-Pup, Eris would've missed it completely. But somehow she found this hidden little place. It looked like someone had PURPOSELY hidden it from the way it had been kept secret. Eris didn't think anything of it however and went right in, stopping right smack dab in the middle all while looking around while still on her board; she was in awe of its beauty. All around her were a canopy of trees in a perfect circle. The place itself was fairly big. The meadow was about two hundred square feet round. Enough to maybe place a small single-person cabin in it and still enjoy the wildlife around them.

Not too far off was a waterfall. It was medium in size and she could tell there was a lake above it that led down here. Around it was a ring of rock creating a pool. Around it was some berry bushes that had butterflies and bees seemingly everywhere. All around her the grass was a bright green and had flowers all over it. Overhead, the trees let the sunlight in. It was at this point that S-Pup had deployed his solar panels and was soaking up the solar radiation. He was recharging his reservoir back up with as much power as he might need.

Near the waterfall and just a bit off to the left of it was a small cave. Eris smiled and she headed for it calling S-Pup to her, as they slowly headed over to it. But unknown to her or S-Pup, someone was watching them from atop the waterfall. And they weren't happy that they had found his hidden meadow. Or 'her' cave. He promised her he would watch over them till she was better. And he intended to keep that promise. This was his place and his place alone. All invaders HAD to leave! Whether it is by their own will or by force…The person watching them from atop the waterfall roared out as he launched himself into the air. He did a flip, aiming a fist just inches from Eris and S-Pup that ended in a Shockwave that caused Eris to fly off her board. S-Pup flew backward and across the ground as the guy left a small crater in the spot where they had both been a moment ago. He stood there looking at them both; he had nothing but loathing in his eyes as he watched them. Eris groaned and placed a hand on her head as she shook it in the hopes of clearing the confusion. S-Pup tried to nudge her up but she pushed him away and got up a little shaken, and looked up at the one who attacked them. She threw her arm out and yelled at him.

WHAT WAS THAT FOR!? WHY DID YOU JUST ATTACK US LIKE THAT!? WE DIDN'T DO ANY ARM AT ALL! WHO ARE YOU ANYWAY!?

The one in front of them didn't answer her at first and stood up, putting Eris off guard. He stood three feet and six inches taller than her bringing him to a full 8 feet tall. He looked to be a brute of massive size. That alone wouldn't have been so surprising, but the fact he was a Grolar Bear was. She'd never seen one before now and had only heard that they were brutes in size and power. And the one standing before them didn't look all too happy right now for some reason. He pounded his fist into his other hand while growling. He said just two words before attacking once more.

GET! OUT!

And with that, he attacked Eris and S-Pup once more, but this time Eris had a chance to react and move out of the way more quickly. She jumped up and flipped in the air, landing just a few feet from where he had swung.

Listen, buddy, I don't know who you are or what's going on but you can't go around attacking people without reason!

The only reply was a repeat of his last statement as he roared out.

I said, LEAVE NOW!

He aimed another punch her way and she blocked it, but that only caused her to get pushed back. S-Pup was barking the whole time at him from a bit farther away. Eris managed to break away from the swing and jumped back once more.

OKAY! Fine! If THAT'S how you want to play it then let's GO!

And with that, she ran at him, aiming a punch at the massive Grolar Bear who in turn jumped out of the way and sent another one back her way. His punch hit her in the back of her head and sent her flying across the grass and flowers. S-Pup took off running to her, whining and nuzzling her. She pushed him out of the way, rubbing the back of her head.

Wow! That dude's got some power let me tell you SP. Well, if it's power he wants then it's power he's going to get. Get ready SP, we're going to show him what we can do.

S-pup barks out getting ready for her command...

SP: BATTLE MODE OMEGA!

S-Pup's eyes changed to a green color and he shifted just a bit; this revealed some weaponry contained inside him. This was only a small portion of what he was fully capable of. Battle Mode Omega' was mainly used for defense and Skye had loaded up gunk balls that could render almost anyone motionless. There was a taser as well if it came to it. There were also pepper bombs and smoke bombs. When in Battle Mode Beta or even Alpha... Well, let's just say those two levels were a bit more extreme. Alpha Mode was the deadliest mode of all.

Eris attacked first, sending a roundhouse kick his way which the Bear blocked with his hands. He grabbed hold of her foot and sent her flying by spinning Eris around and letting her go. Eris went flying as she landed on her hands and used her momentum to flip herself up and over. She landed on her feet and kicked off from where she was, attacking the huge beast once more. Eris aimed a hard punch at him but once again he eluded her.

During the fight, S-Pup had been shooting off gunk bombs at the Grolar Bear, who continued dodging everyone sent his way so far. The Grolar Bear, seeing the gunk land all over the place became even more enraged at what was happening to his meadow. At that point, he'd completely lost it. By now Eris had seen this and she had her claws out, ready for whatever he brought.

GET. OUT. NOW! LEAVE MY MEADOW FOREVER!

He roared out.

Listen up You! I have as much right to be here as the next guy! You don't own this place at all so back off!

S-Pup had continued firing the gunk bombs without letting up, and one of them finally hit the Grolar Bear's foot, sticking him in place. That gave Eris the chance to attack him and land a hit which sent him flying and rolling over and over on the ground.

Now again, stop this madness! We have a right to be here!

NO! GET OUT NOW! I PROMISED I'D PROTECT HER! NOW GO! GET OUT OF HERE!

Protect? Protect…

But before she could ask who he was talking about he was back and on her once more amid a volley of attacks at her from punches, kicks, and headbutts as well. This put Eris completely off guard so quickly that she didn't know which end was up! With his last kick, he sent Eris flying back into a tree knocking the breath out of her for a few moments. She fell to the ground on her hands and knees while gripping her midsection, coughing hard as she tried to catch her breath.

Eris had dealt with some big guys in her days, but nothing like this brute! He was both fast AND strong. She'd never seen anything like him before! A low growl could be heard and a soft double-smacking sound, as Eris, looked up seeing him punching his right fist into his left palm, and his eyes just said so much. There was so much emotion in them, but it was mostly all anger and rage. She smiled, pleased that for once she'd found someone worthy of her skills. Standing up and brushing herself off she saw him getting into a new fighting stance. Making a "bring it" motion with her hand, he came at her. At the same time, S-Pup launched a Bola rope right at the Grolar Bear and sent him falling face-first into the dirt. Eris just stood there huffing and rolling her shoulders.

I'll say kid, you got power in you. But you got a hothead too. And if you're going to be like this then I and my 'bot' here are going to go see what's in that cave of yours whether you like it or not. As I said, you don't own these lands. It's all SSC, as far as I know. HELL! For all, I know this part of the wildlife park runs onto my land and it belongs to me, and if that's the case there you are the one not allowed here. Let's go S-Pup; power down and let's go see what's in this cave.

With that, S-Pup returned to normal settings and followed her into the cave. Eris brushed the dirt off herself along the way. The Grolar Bear or whatever he was had ruined one of her favorite riding outfits, and she wasn't happy about it. As she walked, Eris took stock of herself. Her jacket was torn in a few places and also had grass stains on it. Her top was a real loss. It was torn at the sides and front, and there was a rip in front that exposed a lot of cleavage, ruining that as well. It all served to expose a bit more of her than she'd meant to. Or cared to. Even more of her formerly cute top was also torn on the left side. Her shorts were all dusty from the fight as well as her shoes. She huffed in annoyance as she finished dusting herself off. Eris was not a happy Lyox right now.

That guy owes me a new riding outfit. This was my favorite one and he ruined it. Damned Grolar Bear!

S-Pup whined a bit and she smiled at him.

Don't worry SP; I'm a bit beat up but I'm fine. Now, how about we go see what's in that cave?

Barking out they head on over to it and look inside of it. All they could see was nothing but darkness right now, but Eris felt something was in there.

Alright, SP uses the low light setting if you would, please. Oh! And remind me that Bear owes me a pair of Black-rocker sunglasses as well, trimmed with gold. Those were pricey as HELL and the worst part is they were the limited edition Cosmic Sun ones too! I dunno if there's any way to GET another pair of them again or not? I'll have to call the designer who made them and see.

S-pup barked in reply and turned on the light to a medium-low setting which was more than enough.

Huh? I don't see what the big deal was about this cave SP. Do you?

S-Pup barked at her tilting his wondering himself what the big deal was about the cave before them.

Do you think maybe that guy is just bonkers or something?

S-pup whined and they both started to head in. But before they could set a foot inside, they heard a grunt and a roar. Eris looked back and saw that the Grolar bear had broken free of the bola ropes. She stood there in shock and before she could do anything or react he was on her in a flash, as she was sent flying once more into a giant rock that was off to the farther reaches of the meadow with a hard solid THUD. This really knocked the wind out of Eris and before she could truly come to, like a flash the Grolar Bear was on her. He was beating the hell out of her, and not easing up. All she could do was try and block some of the hits that were landing on her. With one last hard punch, the Grolar Bear aimed a good one right into her, causing the rock she was pinned on to crack. He cocked a grin as he let her go and Eris fell to the ground in a heap and a soft THUD!

The Grolar Bear takes hold of Eris by the neck and starts to squeeze it. All Eris could do was flinch in pain and try to break free but she was pretty beaten up, and hardly had anything left in her from the deadly assault he gave her just moments ago. The Grolar bear slams her into the rock once more as she feebly claws at his thick tree-trunk-like arms with little use. Her nails just barely caused any scratches on them. The grolar bear gets ready to hit her once more when S-pup comes running and bites down on his arm causing him to flinch but not give in. He swings his arm throwing S-pup off, as his metal fangs leave deep gashes in his arm. Grunting out he turns back to Eris smiling.

I told you to leave…

He said in a deep gruff voice.

And you wouldn't. Now, you're going to pay.

Just as he was about to hit her one last time, the sun catches something around Eris' neck that catches his eye causing him to smile and reach out for it. It was her locket that was given to her on her birthday by her father. The last thing he would ever give to her again. He takes hold of it and rubs a thumb over and yanks it off causing Eris to reach out for it weakly.

P-Please...give that...back...to me…

The bear grunts out and holds it up out of her reach chuckling out.

Then reach for it if you want it…PRINCESS

Eris tries to but her arm falls to her side. The Grolar Bear chuckles out and stuffs it into his side satchel for safekeeping.

Please...give...it...back...it's...the...last…

But before she could say anything more, he hits her right in her midsection as he knocks the last of the air out of her, knocking her out cold. He picks her up by the neck and throws her into the waterfall rocks face where she falls face-first into the water leaving her there. He looks back to the cave and starts to head for it, but he is stopped by S-pup who growls and barks at him. He only growls back causing S-pup to rethink things, and back off and run to help Eris.

As Eris lays there face down in the waters, an all too familiar darkness engulfed her. It was almost like the one from the battle a few months back when she dealt the final blow to Ivan and his bot. Almost...but this was different. This time it felt almost warm and inviting. Like an old friend coming to say hello. And yet at the same time much, much darker. As she laid there in the water, she could hear sounds but couldn't comprehend them. All she wanted to do was curl up and allow this new darkness to take hold of her. She was very slightly aware of something tugging the back of her hoodie and dragging her from the waters where the grolar bear had thrown her after he was done turning her into mincemeat. But who was he, and why did he attack her without any real reason? What was in the stupid cave he had to protect to the point of killing someone? These were questions she would never get answers to as the darkness kept taking her mind over. Right now all she wanted was to curl up and let it take over, and take her from this realm. And she would have to if it wasn't for the small voice coming from the darkness. It almost sounded like her voice. But it sounded...DARKER...almost...she wished it would go away, that whoever or whatever it was would just let her sleep. But it wouldn't let her…

In Eris' mind...

Erisss….

Ooh...no...go...away...

Eris…

Please...just go...away…let me...be…

Come now Eris….it's time to wake up...

No...just let...me be...I can't…anymore...that bear...to...strong…

ERIS WAKE UP NOW!

The voice shouts at her as it echoes around her as she slowly opens her eyes. She holds her head wishing she could just go back to sleep and let the darkness take over. She moans out as she sees she is curled up into a ball. She looks around and sees nothing but darkness around her, with only a small patch of light around her. She just lays there curled up into a ball too tired to move.

Eris...are you awake yet?

She wished whoever this person was would just go the fuck away and leave her in peace. But she got the feeling that whoever they were wouldn't give her that pleasure right now. So sighing out she answers them.

Y-yes...no thanks to you. Now, what do you want? Who are you, and why won't you just let me die in peace.

Because it is time for your awakening.

W-What...do you mean?

You have great power within you, Eris. And it is time to let it out, and show the world who you are.

A…Great power?

Yes…

What do you mean by a great power within me?

It does not matter right now. All that matters is you need to get up. I will help you achieve your goal.

My...My goal?

Yes...Remember all you have lost Eris. The ones who did this to you. Who took EVERYTHING from you.

Eris by this time had stood up holding herself a bit scared. She still wondered who this thing was, and why she was here. Wherever HERE was.

W-Who are you? Can't you at least tell me that? And where are you? And where am I for that matter?

I have been dormant within you for a long time, Eris.

W-What do you mean you've been laying dormant within me? A-Are you telling me that we're inside my mind right now?

Yes. You see years ago, we used to be friends. Very close friends. We were almost like sisters. Even though we came from different races of beings, we were close.

What do you mean we came from different races? Are you not a Mobian like myself?

No, I am not. I am a Black Arms Princess.

WHAT? A-A BLACK ARMS PRINCESS? WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?! THE BLACK ARMS ARE DEAD AND GONE! SHADOW MADE SURE OF IT!

My name is Black Trinity, and what I am about to tell you may shock you. But it must be known. You see, years ago when you were just a child, the Black Arms came to visit, at the time we wanted nothing but peace and friendship. I was with my grandfather, the current leader of the Black Arms at the time, Black Void when we came to greet your people. We met with the General, your father, and we told them what we wished. After some debating and talking with the King and Queen, they agreed to peace with us. You were there that day, you were but a small child why I was no more than a hundred and twelve years old. We became fast friends. You were so excited about the prospect of a new friend from far away that you couldn't wait to get me away to show me around your home and the castle.

For many days, weeks, months, and years we grew closer and closer becoming the best of friends. But with time came the war.

War?!

Yes. You may not remember but someone within our family line turned against us. They wanted the Black Arms throne for themselves and they would stop at nothing to take it.

W-Who was it? Who started the war?

It was none other than Black Doom himself. Shadow the hedgehog's FATHER…

WHAT!? BUT HOW?!

I do not know how, or even why. I just know that I had to do something to help my family. You were no more than ten years old when this happened. When Black Doom took over. He killed my grandfather and tried to force me into submission to become his queen and mate. But I refused. I fled to Mobius to warn you all of what had happened, but on my way here in my ship he attacked me and shot me out of the skies. My ship crashed and landed in the deep jungles on Angel Island. When people saw my ship falling out of the skies, it didn't take long for G.U.N to send out soldiers to find me. They patched me up as best as they could when they learned who I was, they brought me to the Castle since it was the closest. There, your father and you were contacted, and within hours you were at my bedside where I told my story and what happened, and how Black Doom was on his way here to try and take over Mobius and enslave its people. When your father heard this, he at once set orders out to prepare for battle. Things looked good, for a short time, and I was almost recovered when Doom showed up.

What happened then, Trinity?

He told the leaders that I was a traitor to my people, and was a power-hungry beast who had gone and killed her grandfather, and he demanded for me to be handed over. But the thing is, your father and a few leaders didn't believe him. The King and Queen didn't either and told him to leave right away. But he wouldn't have it, he wanted me and he would do whatever it took to get me. He warned them to either hand me over or they would all die. Again they told him to leave, and he did, saying they would regret this. He left and when you told me what happened I knew what I had to do. When the day of the battle came I went to fight Black Doom, but when you found out you begged me not to do it, that I was still too weak from when he attacked me last time. I told you I had to protect you, my sister and best friend. When Doom showed up you wanted to stay and fight by my side even when you had next to little training yourself. I told you to run that he would be here any moment. But you refused to, saying you were not scared of him, that we could take him on together.

I admired your bravery that day, but I couldn't risk your life for mine. This was my battle, not yours. So again I tried to get you to leave, but it was too late, Black Doom showed up with his army and we waited. I stepped in front of you and told him to leave, that I would not let him hurt you, your father, or anyone else. He only laughed saying I was weak and pathetic for befriending you all. I told him that you were my strength, not my weakness. It was then you came out from behind me and ran out in front of me and held out your arms to try and protect me. Black Doom only laughed stating this is what protects me, this weak little KIT!?

He laughed at you and you became angry and tried to run at him, but he started to charge up an energy ball, that is when I took action and ran after you. I managed to save you in time, but not before he shot me. Your father saw everything and ordered the attack on Doom. He ran into battle to make sure we were both alright. I was hurt pretty badly, but I had to stop Doom. With the wound, he gave me my only other alley which was that black hedgehog, Shadow. It took me by surprise that he would turn against his father. But I found out that was all a ruse to get me to trust him. He wanted to take down his father for other reasons. Reasons of his own. So together we fought side by side, but when the time came, he dealt the final blow to me.

WHAT!? NO! HE SAVED THE PLANET THAT DAY IT'S IN OUR HISTORY!

That may be the truth, but it was me who weakened him enough so he could. Look, I'll help you remember…

With that images started playing before her. Of how it showed her and Trinity meeting, becoming friends, doing so much together, and more. Right up to the battle where she showed how Shadow shot at her and took her down why he took on Black Doom himself.

You see! Shadow shot me down and tried to kill me. When I fell back down to Mobius you tried to help me. But it was no good. I was fading fast. But I remember what you said when you knew I wouldn't make it. You said…

"I'll make Shadow pay for this, Trinity. He won't get away with killing my sister and best friend. You'll see once I am old enough I'll take him down and end him. For you, and me both! This I promise you!"

I told you how proud of you I was and that there could be a way. The only way to save me till I was well once more, was if I was to lay dormant inside someone. But in order to do that, we would need the Chaos emeralds and the seven Red Star Rings. I told you if you went and gathered them all up and brought them to me I would tell you what to do. And so you did, you found and brought them all to me and together we performed the Echidna Guardians prayer and wished for me to be laid to rest inside of you till the time was right. And now that time has come for you to awaken so that we may begin to take over where Shadow wasn't able to. We will take down the monarchy and rule in their stead and show them all. This is the other promise we made just before I passed away.

H-How come I don't remember any of this? Why does it feel off?

You need not worry. It feels off because binding my soul with your body came at a price. That price was for you to never remember anything till the time is right. When the time is right things will become clear. But right now you need to get up and fight. I will help you by giving you a powerful form. Once we've killed that bear we will set out and achieve our goal.

But what if even then I cannot beat him?

You can, just trust me, and remember some of our past together. On what we wanted to do when you got older.

What do you mean?

Once again Trinity shows Eris' past and what they wanted to do when Eris was grown up. Things she thought were only silly little jokes and nothing more. But somehow she felt like there was truth behind them as well. To rule over Mobius. To make it hers and turn it into a Utopia where everyone was welcomed and there was no war. Or even famine. The more and more she watched, the more and more Trinity fed her, her lies. She didn't want Eris to remember her true self till it was too late to do anything. And when the time was right she would leave her body with a new one, and start taking over Mobius. But she would have to wait and bide her time. Wait till she gets stronger. Strong enough to do so. She would need to gather followers and troops, enough to make an army. She would need to find the seven Chaos Emeralds and the Red Star Rings in order to accomplish everything. So for now she would help...GUIDE her down the path SHE WANTED. After a time Eris finally understood, and she spoke out at last.

I'm ready, let's do this. Let us make our dream of Ruling Mobius and its people a reality. We will bring back the Black Arms Empire like never before. With new stronger hybrids. And if anyone opposes us we will take them down or kill them. But our first target should be taking down that fucking Grolar Bear first and foremost.

Now you are talking. Behold my power and your new form.

Eris looked to her right and it was like she was seeing a darker form of herself. Or she should say HALF of herself. Half of her fur has changed to black and delicate red flame-like markings showed up on her right arm, leg, and chest. Even her right eye had changed as well. The Sclera goes from white to black, and her iris becomes a deep ruby red with a hint of gold. Her hand turns claw-like as the nails grow long and sharp, her tail becomes thin and whip-like with a sharp heart-shaped point on the tip of it and she ends up with a delicately curved horn. A single wing sprouts from her back, as her hair grows longer and turns black with deep red streaks and was still up in the ponytail from before but had more volume to it. Eris stood in awe of herself but wondered why she only saw a half of her new self.

What about the rest of me?

I am sorry but for now, this is all the power I can give you. It should be enough to kill that bear off.

No!

What?!

No, I don't wish to finish him off. He has pure raw strength, and power, something I have never seen before, and that could be of use to us. If we can turn him to our side, into a drone or follower why keeping him as himself. In short, with someone like him on our side, he could prove to be very useful to us. He will become our Champion. Our protector, and maybe our lover. He is strong and powerful and will make a fine follower for what is to come.

I like how you think. There is a way to turn him when the time is right. First, let's show him the same courtesy he showed you just moments ago.

With pleasure.

Back in the waking world...

Both Eris and Trinity laugh as Eris begins to wake up groaning out in pain from the beating she took just moments ago. She looked up from where she was and over at the Grolar Bear and her eyes went cold and dark. She struggles to get up, but slips and falls back down, but tries once again, till she is finally back up on her feet. Panting hard she points at him growling out at him.

I said...give me back...my...LOCKET NOW!... OR SO HELP ME CHAOS, YOU'RE GOING TO REGRET IT!

The Grolar Bear swings his head around as his eyes go wide in shock at seeing Eris back up on her feet yet again. His shock soon leaves his face as quickly as it came, and his eyes take on a cold hard look as he punches a fist into his hand and walks towards her getting ready for round two.

I thought I took you down for good? Guess I'll have to show you who the boss is around here.

Eris chuckles out smiling.

Heh...Well, you almost did big boy. But I'm a hard Lyox to take down. So before we start round two, how about you tell me your name? It's the least you can do before I turn you into a new bearskin rug.

Heh...Cocky little bitch, ain't you?

You haven't seen anything yet, handsome. So what's your name kid?

Alright, fair enough. The names, Birch. Birch Von Roke. And I ain't no kid.

Wait? As in THE Von ROKE'S? One of the richest families in Shiny Star City, besides myself?

The one and only, babe. So what about you? To whom do I owe the pleasure of turning into my bitch once this is done?

Eris chuckles out as she rolls her shoulder till it pops and smiles.

The names, Belladonna. Belladonna "Eris" Monroe. But people call me Eris for short, only because I hate my first name.

Belladonna huh? Alright, Bella, then let's do this. I'll even let you have the…

Before Birch could finish saying anything, she was already on him, sending him flying back with a sidekick. He goes flying across the way and into the waterfall's rock face and grunts as he falls into the water. He comes up and wades to the bank groaning out as he lifts himself out of the water and holds his side looking at her. Eris stood there with a smug smile on her face as she took a fighting stance and brushed the side of her nose with a thumb.

That's from earlier when you sent me into the water before.

Birch chuckles out as he shakes out his fur and walks towards her cracking his knuckles.

Fair enough. But don't think I'll let you…

Once again Eris was on him in a flash but he was ready as he growls out annoyed and holds her leg mid-swing and glares at her.

As I was saying, babe, I won't let you get away a second time by taking me off guard. So nice try.

Growling out he grabs her leg harder and picks her up swinging her around and around till he lets go of her and sends her flying and into the trees on the other side of the clearing. She hits one of the trees and cries out as the air is knocked out of her as she falls to the ground groaning out. Birch slowly walks over to her as she moans out looking up at him, and gets up on shaky feet. She chuckles, smiling.

Alright….I'll let you have that one...It's only fair. But it will be the last time as well for you. So don't think I won't hold back this time. Now before we get started. I think you have something of great importance that belongs to me, and I want it back. NOW….

Growling out, Birch punches his fist into his hand once more and takes on a fighting stance.

If you want your locket back...hey!? What's with the new look all of a sudden?

Oh, do you like it? Well, no matter.

Eris shrugs as she walks over to take on a new fighting stance herself.

Let's just say you are about to know true pain here in a moment. And once done you'll be joining me on my little endeavor in taking over Mobius and ruling its people for a better future under our rule. HA HA HA HA HAAAAAAA!

Eris's voice came out sounding like hers and Trinity's at the same time. She smiles a toothy smile, sharp fangs on the right side, normal on the left. She flexes her right hand reading her claws. Chuckling out she takes a step forward narrowing her eyes. Birch only scoffs out brushing the side of his nose, as he narrows his eyes as well. A stiff wind blows as they stare down at one another. For a short time neither moves till something catches Birch's ear and he turns his head to his right giving Eris the chance she needed.

BAD MOVE BEAR! YOU SHOULDN'T LET THINGS DISTRACT YOU!

Eris runs at him taking him off guard and sends a powerful roundhouse kick at him and sends him flying. Birch didn't even get the chance to block her attack at all, as he went flying once again, and into the rock walls near where the cave was. He hits it hard and rickshaws off it and lands face-first on the ground. Groaning out he holds his head and growls out looking up at her. He stands up and right as she is ready to attack him again, he manages to dodge out of the way in time as her punch hits nothing but air. Growling out once more he recovers fast enough and grabs her by her tail and swings her around and to the far side of the clearing once again. She manages to twist around in time and digs her heels and right hand into the ground to slow her down. Coming to a stop she looks up, chuckling out and licking her lips.

Heh...I was right. You will make a very fine champion. Anyone who can take me on will make a fine champion.

Thanks, but no thanks. I already have a job.

Well too bad. It wasn't a request. NOW GET READY BECAUSE YOU'RE GOING DOWN! S-PUP! BATTLE MODE BETA!

Eris yells out to S-pup but gets no answer. She once again calls out to him only to get the same result.

S-PUP I SAID BATTLE MODE BETA NOW!

Growling out annoyed, she stands up and looks around seeing that he was nowhere in sight. She whips her head around and growls at Birch.

WHERE IS HE!? WHAT DID YOU DO WITH S-PUP!?

If you're looking for your Robo pup, he left.

WHAT!?

Yeah after he pulled you out of the waters and tried to wake you he left. Not sure why. But maybe he knew when the getting was good. So it's just you and me babe. So let's do this.

Growling out pissed, she roars out as she arches her back and throws her head back as she powers up.

FINE! WHATEVER! I CAN TAKE YOU ON BY MYSELF! IT'S TIME TO SEE WHAT THIS NEW FORM HAS FOR POWERS! DARK CRYSTAL SHOCKWAVE!

Roaring out once again, Eris sends out a dark black and red crystal-like shockwave at Birch who in turn jumps at the last second to avoid it. He jumps and flips over just barely missing it as it catches the tip of his vest and slices a small part of it off. He lands and growls out as he looks at Eris as the shockwave hits everything behind him. Growling out he calls an attack of his own.

FREEZING ICE DAGGERS!

Around fifteen ice daggers form around Birch and he sends them at Eris who ends up dodging most of them, but one hits her wing and she cries out as she falls to the ground. She hisses out as she looks over her shoulder and sees her wing starting to freeze over.

WHAT!?

How do you like that move? My Ice Daggers can freeze just about anything and more depending on the attack and power.

Eris turns her head back at him and growls out, but it quickly turns into a coy sly smile.

Impressive. I'll admit I was taken off guard but it won't happen again, this I promise you. Now get ready, for playtime is over with.

Getting up, she folds her wing in and yells out, and snaps it open breaking off the ice as she once again readies herself to attack once more. She launches herself with a foot and pulls back her right arm and readies her claws and swings down at Birch taking him off guard. He is sent flying back as he hits the rocks near the waterfall. Grunting, he groans out and holds his head shaking it. Not missing a beat, Eris was on him once more, sending punches, kicks, and more at him, not giving him a chance to recover in time to block any of her attacks. She grabs a hold of him by his vest collar with her right hand, turns around, and drags him till she lifts him up and over and sends him flying right into the bolder from before. He cries out as his back hits it and he slides down it headfirst as he hits the ground. Eris scoffs out as she slowly walks over to him, as he rolls over groaning out as he looks up at her.

That…is some power...you have...Princess...ooh… I'm going to feel that tomorrow... I just know it…ooh…

Good, now you know what it is like to get beat into a bloody pulp as you did me not too long ago. Though unlike YOU I had a reason. Now, we're going to finish this here and now, and when I am done I'm going to go see what the big deal is about that stupid cave behind me.

Eris points over her shoulder with a thumb as Birch slowly gets up growling out.

I don't think so, Princess. At least not why I am standing.

Then I guess I'll have to break your legs so I can see.

Not unless I DO IT FIRST! VIKINGS WRATH!

Birch roars out as he jumps into the air and slams a fist into the ground causing a mini quake to start up as an icy wave was shot her way. Seeing it, Eris jumps into the air and uses her wing to hover above it, but that gives Birch the chance he needed as he jumps high into the air and forms his hands together making a single fist and bringing it down on her back and sending her flying into the ground hard and fast. She ends up smashing right into the bolder cracking it even more as she rickshaws off it a couple of times till she lays still. Groaning out, she holds herself up and holds her head shaking it. But before she could even regain her footing, Birch was on her once more, coming in hard and fast as he stomps onto her back and smashing her into the bolder with so much raw strength that it causes the bolder to crack under pressure and brakes apart to the point it sends her right through it and creates a crater.

Crying out from the sheer shock of it, Birch jumps up off her and lands a few feet from her, punching a fist into a hand growling out. For a time Eris didn't move. And when he thought the fight was over, he headed to the cave. But as he gets halfway there, something catches his ear and he looks back around to see Eris rising out of the crater as the wind whips around her, and her hair flies about having come out of its hold as her eyes glow an eerie red. Birch's eyes widened in shock at seeing how she survived one of his most powerful onslaughts. To him, it looked as if he was looking at a dark Goddess, which he may as well have been with who and what she was now. As she floats there she holds out a clawed finger and points it at him, when something slowly floats up and out of the crater from where the boulder was just moments ago. It glows a bright cyan as it moves around her as she readies an attack. The tip of her finger starts to glow as an energy ball slowly forms and becomes bigger and bigger till it was around the size of a basketball. Growling out, and seeing how it was pointed at the cave behind him, he knew everything would be over with if he didn't do something fast. Growling out he calls on his most powerful attack and runs at her jumping into the air. She watches him as she aims her attack at him at the same time he calls out his, she calls her.

FREEZING TITANIC BLAST!

DARK CRYSTAL BEAM!

Both attacks fire at once and head right for the other. For a moment they hold back the other's attack. But soon they start to combine with one another and mix as it looked as if they would cancel one another out as the attacks start to implode only to expand back out with a mighty BOOM! Sending them both flying back. Birch ends up hitting the waterfall rock base once again, as Eris was sent flying back into the trees. For a time everything was dead quiet. After a few long moments, Eris comes walking out of the trees, and Birch groans out and walks out from the waters of the waterfall once again. Both groan out as Eris pants and looks at him. He looks up at her holding his head and sighing out.

W-What was that just now?

Not sure, but I suggest we hurry this fight up, I can't risk the others finding out about my new look. At least not till it is time. Now prepare yourself Von Roke, the real fight begins here.

With that Eris, pushes off with a foot, and using her claws she attacks Birch, and at the same time, he attacks as well sending forth a frosted blast her way. As Birch swung his fist at her, she caught it within her clawed hand and pushed him back. Grunting out, Birch swings his other hand her way but she ends up catching it as well and they try forcing one another back with sheer strength alone. It looked like Birch was about to overpower her, but she used her tail and pointed the tip up and struck him, causing him to roar out and let her go as she ripped out the tip of her tail from his side, and wrapped it around his arm and sent him flying once more. Growling out, Birch manages to recover in time and flips around in time, and digs his hands and heels into the ground creating grooves in the ground as he uses the momentum to push off and attack her.

She manages to move out of the way in time, as his punch swings around and misses. Taking this chance she skids to a stop and turns around as she pushes off with her foot again, and turns around and uses her tail and smashes it into him and sends him flying yet again. He goes flying back into the rock face of the waterfall once again, and not letting up, not even for a moment, she starts to kick and punches at him as he did moments ago. Using her tail, she wraps it around his neck and squeezes his neck, choking him as she holds him up and starts slamming him, over and over again into the back of the waterfall's rock face till it starts cracking. Birch groans out as she slams him into the rock face once more and as she was about to punch him one last time he grabs a hold of her fist and holds her back as he hits her in her stomach making her grunt out and wince as he tail loosens around his neck. Taking his chance he grabs a hold of her and using both of his feet he pushes off the rock face and slams her down into the water creating a huge splash. He holds her there as she struggles to breathe. Thinking fast she takes her tail and lifts it and jabs the tip of it into his leg making him roar out and let her go. Not wasting a moment, Eris flies up out of the water and jumps back, and lands on the grass falling over as she coughs trying to regain her breath. Panting hard, she doesn't notice Birch coming her way as she keeps trying to regain her breath. By the time she realizes it, it is too late and as she looks up she ends up with a kick to the face that sends her flying across the grass forcing her to roll over and over again till she stops.

I got to say...Babe...You got some moves on you…Especially that tail of yours…Gotta say that is one deadly little thing you have there.

Birch pants out as he limps over to her just as she chuckles out and holds herself up. She looks up at him and wipes her mouth off, as she spits out some blood onto the grass.

I got to say, Birch, that kick was fairly nasty, but I could tell you were holding back. Why?

Maybe because I am enjoying this a bit? Maybe because I feel like I found a worthy opponent? Don't know? All I know is you are the first to come along and take me on and still stand back up after the onslaught I've given them. So I guess I'm impressed some.

He shrugs as Eris chuckles out, shaking her head as she pushes herself up and into a sitting position. She keeps chuckling out as she holds her right arm over her eyes, and throws her head back, till she falls over onto her back. She keeps on laughing, making Birch slowly limp over to her as her laughter becomes sobs. Stopping before her, he looks down at her tilting his head at her. After a moment and feeling his presents near her, she peeks out from under her arm and sniffles.

You have no idea...of how LONG...I've been needing this…Birch…How long I've been holding back….My anger and sorrow…How long I've been needing to let this all out…

Eris holds out her hand and spreads her claws as the sunlight filters through them, and she lets go of a wet laugh. Birch looks at her tilting her head confused about what she meant.

Do...Do you think if he saw me right now...that he would be….That he would HATE me...? That he would be….DISAPPOINTED in me…? What would he think...of me right now if he saw me?…

Who?

Was all Birch said? As she answers him in a whisper as she closes her fist and lets her arm fall to her sigh.

Daddy…

It was then that Birch understood. Or at most he understood to a point. Sighing out as he lets his ears fall back, he grunts and holds out his hand to her. Looking up at him she ignores him and turns her head over to the cave. He follows her and once again sighs out.

What is it… that you're trying to protect… in there, big guy? Why is it… you must kill me… in order to protect… whoever is in there?

Her name is Atlantia.

Who?

Eris looks at him, as she rolls over and gets up slowly limping over to the cave. As she makes it over to it she lets her eyes adjust as she walks inside. Once inside a soft glow could be seen near the back and she gaps out when she sees who it was that he was trying to protect. She hears footsteps behind her and her ears turn to the sound as Birch comes to stand before her.

S-she's beautiful. But...HOW!? WHO!?

Poachers.

WHAT!?

When Eris heard this she understood now why he did what he did. Birch growls out as he knees before a huge Black Patch Striped female Mobian Valley Mountain wolf. She was bigger than most of her kind, and it looked as if she was in very serious shape. Not to say it looked as if she was nursing as well.

W-Where are her pups? A-Are they…

Over in my sleeping bag, safe.

Eris sighs out relieved at hearing this as she looks at him.

I've been trying to find her food to eat but she is becoming weaker to the point she is not producing enough milk. I have been trying to feed them via a bottle, but I don't think they will make it without their mother.

After a moment and looking over to his sleeping bag after hearing a squeak from it, she walks over and kneels and removes the top, and sees six little wolf cubs, one of which looked like it's mother. Looking over at Atlantia, and then Birch and back she nods and places the covers back over the pups and stands up walking past Birch and out of the cave speaking.

We admire you for your nobility, and courage, Birch. And I promise, once I've beaten you into a near bloody pulp, and within an inch of your life as you did me, I'll see to it she gets help. I promise you. This is the life we seek. We seek to better Mobius so creatures big and small will not need to know pain and suffering. No matter the species.

Birch follows her outside as they head to the middle of the clearing. But before he could say or do anything, she swung her leg up and around in a roundhouse kick and sent him flying back, into a couple of trees and breaking them. They land with thunderous loud booms as Birch groans out and holds himself up. Growling out as he holds his head, he narrows his eyes at her as he gets up and punches his fist together as he slowly starts to walk till he starts to run and pulls back a first and yells out…

TUNDRA PUNCH!

Chuckling out, Eris readies herself for his attack and holds out a hand as she powers up an energy ball. Just as Birch was about to hit her, she released the energy ball at him, but he anticipated this and ducked. Her eyes widen in surprise as he sends a powerful uppercut her way, knocks her up into the air and comes back around and grab a hold of her tail and swings her around, and sends her flying into the waterfalls rock face with enough force it ends up making the crater within the one left by him before bigger. She groans out as she pushes herself out of it and falls into the water with a loud splash. Groaning out she swims to the side and pulls herself out of the water and looks at him smiling. Once out she runs at him and pulls back a fist and hits him dead on in the face, but he takes the hit and grabs a hold of her, and slams her into the ground as he gets on top of her and starts punching her. After a few times, she catches his fists and chuckles out.

What's so funny, Princess?

This is…

Without warning, Eris wraps her tail around his neck and pulls him to her, where she ends up kissing him. Birch was taken off guard by this for a moment as his eyes widened, but he soon gave in as his eyes slowly closed and he felt something take over him. Before too long Eris breaks the kiss and lets him go as she gives a half-smile.

How do you feel...My champion?

Birch looks down at her and smiles with a nod.

Like I've been reawakened somehow. Like a new power is flowing throughout me. I feel your every whim, and desire. I feel that what you say about your dream is true.

Then will you help me...help us achieve it?

Birch looks down at her and thinks for a moment. After a bit, he nods and answers her.

I will help you in any way I can, Princess. Tell me what it is I have to do.

Pledge yourself to me and my cause, and together we will show Mobius what we are made of. Together we will rule side by side. Me as its one and only true Queen, and you as my Champion, lover, and possibly King.

Then so be it. I Birch Von Roke, of the Von Roke house, hereby pledge myself to you and the Black Arms Empire. And together we will bring Mobius to a new era of peace and prosperity by our means and take down all who defy and oppose us.

Eris chuckles out as she pulls him to her once more and once again kisses him.

Then so be it, my Champion. Now let me up and let's finish this. Make it look good because I am sure S-pup has reached the others and warned them of what is going on. Understand?

I do, my Princess...

In Shiny Star City Rural district...

S-pup was flying at his fastest speed and heading to the rural area of Shining Star City, where he knew the others would be since Skye inputted the location into his system the night before. He was now at the intersection and dodging cars, trucks, and more as he went zooming by. He didn't have time to stop or watch what he was doing, not with Eris in danger. He needed to get to Shadow and the others right away. As S-pup takes a hard left turn he flies up and over a car making the person driving it, slam on the brakes and stop. The person in the car rolls down his window and yells at S-pup, but he ignores them, as he keeps going.

As he nears a stoplight at an intersection, it turns red but S-pup makes a hard right causing cars and trucks that were going different ways to slam on their brakes, and pop out of their windows and yell at him as he goes flying by. He keeps this up till he ends up near the turn-off into Shiny Star City. Taking it he maneuvers around a few semi-trucks causing them to nearly crash into the side of the railing as he went by. As he finally enters Shiny Star City.

As he keeps flying, he stops only for a moment, and lands getting his bearings as he spots a map to make sure he was going the right way. Even though he had the location of the Monroe Haven Mansion within his data banks, it had been known to sometimes falter. So he learned to always make sure to check the local maps and more when he was on his own. So doing a quick scan of it, he once again heads off, running down the road, his metal claws, and paws making a tip-pa clack, tip-pa clack, on the road, as he makes a right-hand turn. But as he does he sees the road being blocked off by construction workers, as they work on fixing the road as they lay down new asphalt. The workers look up and see him coming as they try to warn him off and the other way. But he goes and ignores them, as he jumps up and onto a steamroller and up to the top making several men shout out.

HEY YOU CRAZY MUTT, GET DOWN FROM THERE! WHAT'S YOUR DEAL!? SOMEONE GET HIM NOW!

Several men try to climb the steamroller to get to him but he jumps from it and onto the top of the dump truck in front of it. The man growls out as he jumps down from it and onto the newly laid down asphalt leaving pawprints on it, and starts running. Workers up front tried to stop him, but he makes it onto the sidewalk and starts running where he runs up a ramp and jumps high into the air and folds his legs under him, and takes to the sky as he flies by and off to Shiny Star Cities Mountainside. It doesn't take him long to get to the mountainside, as he flies down the road trees, and fields fly past him on either side in a blur of colors. As he flies on by he lands and skids to a stop as he looks down three different forks in the road. Panting he looks down at each one and, and brings up the map of the whole city he scanned not too long ago. His servos were going a mile a minute as he finally figured out what way to go. So heading straight he starts running this time and uses his thrusters to go faster. It takes him only twenty minutes when he finally sees the convoy. Barking out he picks up speed and goes zooming by everyone and up to the front of the convoy and rushes ahead of everyone and skids to a stop thirty feet ahead of them and holds his ground. The driver of the Teams Truck sees him and slams on the brakes causing the truck to swerve too and throw as he tries to stop in time from hitting S-Pup. The driver manages to do so, making the truck swerve to a halt as the Humvees behind him slam on the brakes to avoid crashing into it and the others. Everyone opens their doors and stands up wondering what was going on and why the driver had pulled such a move when they heard him yelling at the top of his lungs.

Ack!? WHAT THE FUCKING CHAOS SAM HILL, YOU WEE CRAZY ROBOTIC DOGIE? YE TRYING TO GET US ALL KILLED YOU STUPID WRENCHED BEASTIE?!

MAC WHY DID YOU...S-PUP!?

Upon hearing the voice, S-pop barks out and runs over to them, nearly knocking Mac over in the process as he was getting out of the truck.

Ack! The blooming robotic beast came out of nowhere I tell ye, Shadow. Like he was asking to be run over! I don't know what his problem is. I think he has a few crossed wires or something.

Shadow hums out as S-pup starts making a fuss as he tries to get Shadow to follow him. It was then that Skye shows up from the trailer when he hears the commotion. On seeing Skye, S-pup runs at him and jumps on him, knocking him over as he barks frantically as he looks at Shadow, Jax, and the rest. But it was then Shadow realized something was wrong.

Where's Belladonna at?!

Everyone's eyes widen as they look down behind them hoping that she was on her way behind him when Shadow growls out fearing something was wrong. On hearing Eris' name, S-pup gets off Skye and runs down the way and stops barking and looking over his shoulder at him. Growling out, and realizing what was going on he curses out.

FUCK! I KNEW I SHOULDN'T HAVE LET HER GO OFF ON HER OWN!

Hey, easy there Shadow. It was that, or she killed Richards.

Jax tells him as he looks over at S-pup.

DON'T YOU THINK I DON'T KNOW THAT JAX!? THERE'S NOT MUCH TIME TO LOSE! SKYE GET MY GEAR PEEPED NOW!

WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON HERE!?

Looking up at Richards, Shadow growls out annoyed as Richard shows up Skye gets up and runs to the back of the base to prep Shadow's gear. After a few moments, he comes back out and runs over to Shadow and hands him his gear. A pair of Air Shoes much like the ones he had, but different from them. These were specifically made for racing, and right now that is what was going on. He was racing against time to go and help Eris, and his normal Air shoes wouldn't cut it. His Racing Gear gave him some added speed. Along with them, he hands him some new high-tech shades as Shadow looks at him.

Trust me, you're going to need them. There are new high-tech Shades I've been working on. They are yet to be field-tested, so this is the perfect opportunity to test them out. The same with your Gear Shoes as well. I was working on them when we came to halt as we did. I managed to fix something I missed, but I don't know if it will work or not. But with what I have done so far it should get you there and back. Just try not to overwork them, please. I only just finished the prototype, and right now they're the only pair I have. So please try and be careful with them, Shadow. But if I did everything right they should help get you to Eris faster than your normal shoes. As for the Shades, they have a built-in communication hub in them along with being able to read the stats of teammates and more. Once we've set up here I'll get my gear and fly out to meet you both.

No. I want you to stay here and keep watch from the base as you stand by. Jax, stay with him at all times and be ready should we need to call for an EMT.

Right...wait… what do you mean an EMT!?

Shadow looks at him as he pulls the back of his left shoe on as he taps the toe of it.

YOU'RE NOT SUGGESTING SHE COULD BE HURT DO YOU!?

Growling out, and having put on his other shoe, he walks over to Richards and points a finger at him.

THAT is no longer your concern, Richards. Your job was to escort us here and nothing more. You've done that, now you can leave and get the fuck out of here. We can take the rest from here on out. MAC!

AYE, SHADOW!?

MOVE THE MOBILE BASE UNIT OUT NOW AND HEAD FOR MONROE HAVEN CABIN MANSION NOW! SET UP THE BASE AND GET THINGS READY! SKYE, JAX, I'M LEAVING YOU IN CHARGE! YOU AND SKYE BOTH KNOW WHAT TO DO! NOW GET TO IT! S-PUP TAKE ME TO ERIS NOW!

Without waiting another moment, S-pup barks out and starts running back down the road as Shadow runs after him, starting up his Gear, and putting on his shade. He hits the boosters in them and before Richard has time to protest he is gone, leaving a dust cloud behind him as he skates after S-pup. Richard goes running after the yelling at Shadow, but Jax runs after him to stop him when Shadow turns around and sends a Chaos Spear at Richards making him eep out and jump into Jax's arms who looked just as shocked. On seeing that, Skye and the other soldiers start laughing as Jax looks at Richards unamused.

What?

Sighing out, Jax drops him, making the others burst out even more as Jax sighs and yells out.

ALRIGHT, EVERYONE! YOU HEARD, SHADOW! LET'S FINISH GETTING TO THE CABIN NOW! SKYE GET IN THE BACK AND GET READY TO SET UP!

RIGHT JAX!

Skye hurries back inside the base to get things ready.

MAC, GET BACK IN AND GET THIS PUPPY MOVING DOUBLE TIME! I WANT TO BE AT THE CABIN MANSION WITHIN THE NEXT FIFTEEN MINUTES AND READY TO SET UP AND BE ON STAND-BY FOR SHADOW'S CALL!

AYE! RIGHT AWAY BOSS MAN!

Mac hurries back into the truck and starts it back up as Jax looks down at Richards.

As for you Richards. Pick yourself up. You look unprofessional down there.

Jax tells him with a fold of his arms as Richard growls out pissed.

YOU LISTEN HERE, YOU PIECE OF SHIT…

LIEUTENANT RICHARDS SIR!

WHAT!?

Richard looks behind him growling out, making the guy speaking flinch back. But he holds his ground and salutes him speaking.

Sir, we just got word from Lieutenant General Conners to head on back and to let Eris and the others take it from here.

DID YOU TELL HIM WHAT HAPPENED, PRIVATE?!

N-No sir.

FINE! THEN LET'S GO NOW! AS FOR YOU, YOU FUCKING SHIT…

Richard turns back around and points a finger at Jax growling out pissed.

You got lucky this time. But next time you won't be.

Duly noted.

Jax tells him with a raised eyebrow not too impressed with him right now. Scoffing out, Richard turns around as Jax turns to hurry and get into the Cab of the truck with Mac as they drive off to the Cabin.

With Shadow and S-pup…

Shadow was hot on S-pup's tail as he takes the same way back, once again taking the same turns and more from when he first came through the city. As they make their way they once again come upon the workers working on the road, but S-pup like last time makes his way back with Shadow following him using his Chaos Control to avoid them altogether surprising some of them as they make their way back down a now busy main street, both dodging cars, trucks, and people altogether, making them yell at them, or surprising them. Their race through the city soon catches the attention of a police officer who was sitting in his car having some coffee and something to eat when S-pup jumps up on top scaring him as he ends up spilling his coffee all over himself as S-pup jumps down from the roof of the car to the hood and onto the ground. Shadow wasn't far behind him as he jumped up and over the car altogether and landed in front of the car once again scaring him. Growling out annoyed, the cop picks up the receiver and calls it in, as he throws his cup out the window and turns on his lights and sirens and starts up his car, and begins to follow them.

This is unit 556! I repeat this is unit 556! I'm calling for backup at once near the exit of the city and I 179!

Unit 556, what seems to be the problem?

I'm pursuing a Black Hedgehog with red stripes, and a robotic dog running the back way of the front way of the entrance to the city limits.

Unit 556 six, would you repeat that over? Did you say a Black Hedgehog with red stripes, and a robotic dog, over?

Yeah, you heard me, Samantha. A black hedgehog with red stripes and a robotic dog, over.

Unit 556 do you have any other descriptions of hedgehog over.

Other than that he is a black hedgehog with red stripes, red, white, and black shoes, white and red gloves, and golden rings on his wrist and legs, over.

Unit 556, it sounded like you just described none other than Shadow The Hedgehog, over.

WHAT!?

Swerving around a car as he follows him he speaks back to Samantha.

You heard me, Lance. But why would he be following a robotic dog?

Your guess is as good as mine. But what is he doing in SSC? You don't think the dog belongs to Ivan, do you?

It is possible, Lance. You're to follow him and help him out in any way possible, over. Call when and if backup is needed.

Ten-four, Sam, following them now. All units near the highway try to set up a roadblock so we can corner this robotic dog at once and help that hedgehog!

Roger that, 556. setting up a roadblock now to try and contain the robot over!

Lance slams down on the pedal and speeds up trying to catch up to Shadow who by this time was now so far ahead he had to use every trick in the book to catch up to them. Shadow and S-pup were now nearing the exit to the highway and managed to take a hard right and onto it. They dodged cars, semi-trucks, and haulers of every size and shape, even having to jump up onto them as they made their way back the same way S-pup had originally come. People slam on brakes as they pass, nearly causing crashes, and almost making a couple of semi-trucks swerve to the side and fall off, but Shadow manages to save them in time and starts to follow S-pup once again. At the same time, Lance was hot on his trail as he moved around everyone on the road. As he was doing so, he got feedback from the team creating the roadblock.

Unit 556, this Unit 476, over. We have the roadblock set up and ready for the robot menace, over.

Lance picks up the receiver and answers him.

Copy that unit 476, I am nearly there now, and I can just see Shadow far ahead of me.

Copy that, we are at the ready and awaiting your orders, over.

Be ready and on stand-by, but do not let the robot pass!

Ten-four, over and out!

Growling out, Lance steps on the pedal once more and hurries after Shadow. Cars, trucks and semis, and more move out of the way for him to pass as he follows the both of them.

Up ahead of him were Shadow and S-pup who looked behind him as he made sure he was still following him. Barking out at him once, he looks back and keeps running down the highway moving past cars and more. Overhead a Heli-Jet flies above them watching them as someone in the back opens the door and looks out and takes hold of a special EMP gun and aims it at S-pup.

HOLD HER STEADY, RANDY! I GOT THE ROBOT IN MY SIGHT!

ROGER, KATHY!

As the one named Kathy aims the EMP gun as she puts her finger on the trigger getting ready to shoot when a voice comes over the com system.

HOLD YOUR FIRE NOW! DO NOT SHOOT!

WHAT!? WHO SAID THAT!?

I DID!

KATHY HOLD YOUR FIRE, WE GOT SOMETHING COMING IN OVER A CLOSED LINE! THIS COULD BE TROUBLE!

Growling out, she holds her fire as she sets the gun to the side and moves upfront and takes a headset, and speaks into it.

THIS SSCPD FLIGHT OFFICER, AND CHIEF OF POLICE KATHY LEGACY! SPEAK RIGHT NOW AND EXPLAIN YOURSELF AT ONCE!

I am Skye Prowers, Mechanic and Member of Team Crystal Eclipse. I am asking you to hold your fire at once. I've been listening to all of SSCPD over our radios and we have the situation under control.

AND HOW THE HELL DO YOU HAVE THINGS UNDER CONTROL, MR. PROWERS!? WE HAVE A POSSIBLE THREAT OF IVAN ROBOTNIK'S ROBOT RUNNING LOOSE AND CAUSING PROBLEMS FOR MY CITY!

I am well aware of that, Ma'am, but you shoot MY ROBOT then we lose all hope of finding our Team Leader, Belladonna "Eris" Monroe.

WAIT A MOMENT!? DID YOU SAY MONROE!? AS THE MONROE!? AS IN THE FIVE-TIME WINNING GRAND PRIX EXTREME GEAR CHAMPION, MONROE! THE CRYSTAL QUEEN HERSELF!?

Yes, the very one and the same, Chief. If you would please let me explain things I can tell you what is going on.

ALRIGHT, MR. PROWERS GO FOR IT, AND I'LL LISTEN, BUT THIS BETTER BE GOOD!

Thanking her, Skye explains things and when done she calls all Units at once.

ALL UNITS RESPOND AT ONCE! ALL UNITS RESPOND AT ONCE! DO NOT ATTACK THE ROBOTIC DOG! I REPEAT DO NOT ATTACK THE ROBOTIC DOG! HE IS A FRIENDLY AND IS LEADING SAID, SHADOW THE HEDGEHOG TO THEIR TEAM LEADER, A ONE BELLADONNA "ERIS" MONROE! I REPEAT, THE ROBOTIC DOG IS NAMED S-PUP AND IS A FRIENDLY! LET HIM THROUGH AT ONCE! AND PROVIDE BACKUP IF NEEDED! AND SOMEONE GET A DAMN EMT OUT THIS WAY NOW, AND HAVE THEM HEAD TOWARDS TO THE WILD LIFE PARK AT ONCE! WE MAY HAVE AN INJURED PERSON!

As she finishes several voices come over the comms as she tells the pilot to head to the wildlife park at once to see if they could help find Eris. Back down with Shadow, he had gotten word of what was going on as Skye explained to him what happened. Grunting out he picks up speed he hurries along, as he spots the roadblock ahead and whistles to S-pup to come back to him. He stops near it as someone comes over and salutes him.

Mr. Hedgehog sir! We've been told by our Chief of Police of SSCPD Ms. Legacy that your friend Skye Prowers got a hold of her and what is going on and we have been given orders to help out in any way possible!

Right now as we speak we have an EMT on their way here and to head to the wildlife park should Ms. Monroe be injured. Also Ms. Legacy has told me to let you know she is on the way there now via Heli-Jet to see if she can spot Ms. Monroe anywhere, and will report to Skye right away if spotted, who in turn will get a hold of you and let you know.

Grunting out, Shadow nods, answering as he places a folded hand on his hip.

All I need is S-pup, he knows where she is, as for the EMT let Ms. Legacy know I said thank you. Knowing Eris she more than likely got herself hurt once again. Now out of our way, we don't have time for idle chit-chat. S-pup let's go now! ALSO TELL THAT STUPID COP FOLLOWING US, TO HURRY HIS ASS UP NOW! WE DON'T HAVE ALL DAY!

S-pup barks out and once again starts running, as Shadow follows behind him. Shortly after they left Lance shows up and stops getting out, hitting the top of his car and growling out.

Shit! Just missed him.

Sir, He said for you to hurry up and stop wasting time, that they don't have all day.

Growling out with a nod, Lance gets back into his car and drives off after him. After about thirty minutes Lance finally gets to the wildlife park and sees Shadow waiting for him near the entrance where a cabin shop was at that greeted people as they came to find places to camp and hike. Shadow was standing by the steps of the place with his arms folded as Lance parked and got out of his car and closed his door behind him as he ran over to Shadow.

Shadow, I've been told what is going on and was told to come to help you.

Yeah I know, now come up, we're wasting time. S-pup is antsy meaning we're close. Try to keep up officer…

Lance. You can call me Lance.

Then let's go, Lance. S-pup hurry up and show us the way.

Barking, He bolts down the pathway as both Shadow and Lance follow him.

Back in the hidden meadow…

Eris and Birch had been really going at it and both looked like hell, Eris especially since she was going another round with him yet again and looked worse for wear than ever before. They both stood panting hard, just barely able to stand up as Eris smiles at him nodding.

Alright, let's finish this now. I get the feeling that we let our little playtime go on long enough, and S-pup should be showing back up soon. You do remember what I said right?

Yes, I do, so don't worry. So how do we finish this?

Before Eris could say anything more, she could hear S-pup barking and she knew he was close.

SHIT! I thought we had more time! DAMMIT! Alright come at me with your strongest attack, and I'll do the same.

Birch looks over behind Eris and sees the bushes at the very far back moving and looks over at the cave and back.

Don't worry about her, I made a promise and I intend to keep it. But remember who you follow now, Birch.

Yes, I know, but I made a promise to her and I need to keep it.

Eris sighs out gently, nodding in understanding.

Yes, I know, and we will get her the help she needs. I promise. But right now we need to finish before the others see me.

Sighing out and nodding they get ready for one last stand when Birch's ears perk up and he looks up hearing a Heli-Jet coming closer. Eris hears it as well and knows they could be too late. Birch looks back at her, and with a nod, they attack at once.

VIKINGS WRATH!

DARK CRYSTAL BLAST!

Both attacks hit one another, and like last time they collide with one another, swirling around as they implode, as both Eris and Birch run at one another at the same time and send a few punches and kicks at one another just as Shadow and Lance show up, at the same time the attack explodes outward creating a blinding light and sends most everyone backward and to the ground. Shadow ends up digging his heels and a hand into the ground as he uses his free arm to cover his eyes as the explosion goes off. S-pups digs his claws into the ground as well as he stands in front of Shadow to try and protect him better. As Shadow peeks out from behind his arm, he sees something go flying by him and hit the rock face hard, and a heavy thud could be heard. After a moment everything quiets down as Shadow goes to help Lance up and they look around as a voice sounds over the radio he had on his shoulder, as the sound of the heli-jet blades could be heard closer now.

Lieutenant Lace come in now! Is everything alright?

Lance looks around as does Shadow and S-pup as S-pup whines out. A massive dust cloud still covered the whole meadow, as Shadow saw something standing in the middle of it all. The figure, if one could call it that, looked Demonoid in shape, as he could see a wing, a slender tail whipping back and forth, and a slender body like that of a female. From the dust cloud, red glowing eyes shined for only a moment as a demonic-like voice sounded throughout the meadow.

"The time has come, and soon the Black Arms will rise once again with me as is Queen. You best prepare yourself, Shadow The Hedgehog, for you will be the first to fall...HA HA HA HA HA HA HAAAAAAA!"

Shadow stands there in shock as does Lance who looks worried when once again someone speaks from his radio yelling at him.

LIEUTENANT LANCE ANSWER ME NOW!

Wha?! Huh?! Shit, it's the Chief!

Tell her nothing of what you are seeing!

I need to tell her…

I SAID TELL HER NOTHING!

Shadow yells at Lance making him flinch back as they hear a voice that Shadow knew.

Sh...a...dow? Oooooh….

ERIS!?

Shadow runs into the dust cloud just as the heli-jet flies overhead and hovers, and clears the dust cloud away in time for Shadow to reach Eris and catch her as she falls right into his arms. He looks her over and around for the strange creature but sees no signs of it anywhere. Growling out he looks down when Eris moans out as he yells over at S-pup who was sniffing at Birch.

S-pup over here quickly!

Barking out, he runs over to him and Eris as he tells him to run a scan over her. He barks out and does so, sending the results back to Skye who informs him that Eris would need medical treatment. Sighing out, he picks her up and walks over as a jeep pulls up and comes to a halt as two wildlife park rangers get out demanding to know what was going on in their park, at the same time Lance comes over and informs him that the EMT was now waiting at the park entrance and asking what to do. Shadow tells him to have the EMT come this way as he gently sets Eris down to go check on Birch. Growling out, he gives Birch a good kick to wake him. Groaning out he holds himself up and looks up at Shadow holding his head and giving it a shake.

Start talking BEAR! NOW BEFORE I REALLY LAY THE HURT ON YOU!

Birch scoffs out, as he stands up on shaky legs getting ready for a fight.

Forget it, HEDGEHOG, I don't answer to you. I only answer to the boss.

He nods his head over at Eris as Shadow looks behind him growling out as he looks back over and grabs a hold of Birch's vest collar and pulls him close to him till they were nose to nose. Growling out he looks him in the eyes but Birch doesn't back down once.

I SAID. START. TALKING. NOW!

Forget it. I said I don't answer to you at all.

E-Enough...Shadow...Oooooh…Stand...down now…

Shadow's right ear turns to the voice as he looks over his shoulder and sees one of the Park Rangers trying to keep Eris laying down. But she pushes them off and tries to get up, so they help her instead as she holds her side.

Eris?!

I said...stand down now… it was a misunderstanding...ouch...on...on both our parts….the wolf…she needs help...now...in…in the cave…

What!? Johnny, go look hurry!

Right away Abby.

The one ranger named Johnny hurries over to the cave as Shadow growls out letting Birch go and shoving him as Eris makes her way over to them slowly.

ABBY! HURRY CALL THE TEAM IN NOW! IT'S ATLANTIA AND HER PUPS! WE FOUND THEM AT LAST!

What!? ARE YOU SURE IT'S HER!?

YES!

Abby looks at everyone and goes running over to the cave to see for herself and comes out running over to their jeep and calls for a team to help with Atlantia and her pups. As for Eris, she shoves Shadow out of the way when he tries to help her and limps over to Birch. Scoffing out, Shadow folds his arms watching the two of them as Birch catches her as she starts to fall over once more and holds her close, and whispers something in her ear. Shadow watches the two of them wondering what was going on and wondering how Birch was still able to stand since it looked like he was just as bad in shape as Eris was, as he catches Eris handing Birch something that was shining in a light blue light when one of the rangers come over to speak with him.

You, Black Hedgehog, do you know what is going on around here? I mean this meadow is a MESS! It was our park's best-hidden place for people to come and find.

I am not sure what happened here, I only just got here myself with Officer Lance. Your best bet is to talk with Eris, and that Grolar Bear. They may know more.

Shadow nods their way as they look over. Eris looked in bad shape and in pain, he was surprised that she was able to stand on her own like that with a busted leg once again, the same one no less, and a multitude of injuries along with it. If he was being honest with himself right now it looked as if she was about to pass out. And he wasn't wrong. The moment the ranger goes over to her and Birch she starts coughing to the point she brings up blood. She clings to Birch's arm as he holds her as she doubles over and growls out, causing Shadow to grow concerned with her.

WHAT IS HAPPENING TO HER!?

If I had to guess I think she could have an internal injury!

The one name Johnny said growing worried as Lance yells over to Shadow.

THE EMT SAID THEY CAN'T MAKE IT DOWN THIS WAY DUE TO THE FOLIAGE AND EVERYTHING! THEY SAID IT WOULD TAKE TOO LONG AND IT LOOKS LIKE SHE DOESN'T HAVE THAT LONG IF SHE HAS AN INTERNAL INJURY, SHADOW!

Growling out, he looks at Birch and thrust out his hand.

GIVE IT TO ME NOW!

Give you what!?

THE EMERALD! I KNOW YOU HAVE IT! I SAW ERIS GIVE IT TO YOU, SO HAND IT OVER!

FORGET IT! IT BELONGS TO ME!

I'M WARNING YOU BEAR, IF YOU DON'T GIVE IT TO ME RIGHT NOW SO I CAN FUCKING SAVE HER LIFE I'LL KILL YOU!

Eris begins to cough more and more as blood starts to come up out of her mouth. Her hold on Birch's arm grows weak as she slowly slips from his arms and falls to the ground. Growling out pissed, Shadow punches Birch in the face and sends him flying back, and catches Eris in his arms as the cyan emerald falls out of Birch's pouch pocket and to the ground near his feet. Scoffing out he picks it up and glares at Birch who was groaning out and slowly getting up.

Pathetic! How the hell are you still breathing when she barely is right now?

I'm….a bit tougher...than your...average...bear...H-Hedgehog...though...she did rough...me up pretty good…

Scoffing out, he picks up Eris' bridal style as she breathes heavily and she tries to catch her breath. She reaches up and digs her fingers into Shadow's chest fur weakly as she coughs once more bringing up blood and onto his white patch of fur. Looking down, and knowing she needed help he walks over to Birch growling out.

Hold on to me bear. I'll get us to the EMT at the entrance.

For...get it...just send them here.

YOU FOOL!

Growling out, Shadow kicks him in the side and sends him rolling over and over again where he hits a rock and grunts as everyone looks on at the scene before them. As Shadow walks over to him, he looks down at him growling as he narrows his eyes at Birch. He looks up at him as they hold their gaze for a moment. Finally giving in, and just before he blacks out, he reaches over and lays a hand on Shadow's foot and before anyone could do or say anything he yells out…

CHAOS CONTROL!

And within a blinding flash of cyan light, they were gone. Abby, Johnny, and Lance all look around wondering what was going on and what happened to the three of them when Kathy's voice comes over Lance's radio.

Lance come in over?

Yeah, I'm here boss. What's going on?

I just got word that the EMT has Eris and the bear and they are putting them in the Ambulance now. But it doesn't look good. We're going to act as an EMT flight for them and fly them to Shiny Star General Hospital. We'll make it there faster.

Alright, Kathy be safe.

Aren't I always?

I can name a few.

Kathy chuckles out as she lets them know they have Eris and Birch Heli-Jet and are flying out now to Shining Star City General Hospital. He Lets her know he got the message as he turns to Abby and Johnny.

They're on their way to the hospital now.

Alright, thank you for letting us know. We have a team coming in to help with Atlantia and her pups. But we still need to know what happened here.

Abby tells him as Johnny comes over and hands her something.

What's this?

It looks like a locket of some kind. I found it in the grass near the waterfall. Do you think it's the bears or that Eris person?

Possibly?

May I see it?

Nodding Abby hands it over as Lance looks it over and opens it up. He sees the picture inside of it, and the inscription and nods.

Is Eris, alright. The baby in the picture looks like her now.

What should we do with it, Abs?

Not sure?

Well since we all want answers to what happened here, I think maybe I should hold onto it, I'll hand it over to Shadow and let him…

As he was talking S-pup barks at them and nudges Lance's leg. Looking down he was a bit surprised to see him still there.

Hello there?

A friend of yours Officer, Lance?

Abby looks down at S-pup folding her arms.

No, he belongs to Shadow. I guess he got left behind?

Well, what should we do with him?

Not sure hold on.

Lance reaches for his radio and hits the button on the side of it and calls to Kathy.

Hey, Kathy can you hear me over?

What is it, Lance?

I need to know what to do about Shadow's robotic dog here, he got left behind.

Hold on, Shadow is here with me, I'll hand the mic over to him.

After a moment Shadow's voice could be heard over the radio.

Officer Lance, can you hear me?

Loud and clean, Shadow.

Good, tell S-pup to head on home. He knows the way.

Alright, I'll do just that. Also, we found a locket we think belongs to Eris that got left behind, what should we do with it? I mean I wouldn't mind giving it back to her personally since I, Abby, and Johnny here need some answers on what happened here. But it's your call, Shadow.

Give it to S-pup to hold onto and to take it home, Skye will know what to do with it then. As for those answers, I'll make sure you get them once Eris and the bear are well enough to talk.

Alright will do Shadow, I'll keep in touch.

As will I.

With that, they end the call as Lance sighs out and kneels holding out the locket.

Alright boy, I was told to give you this to take home with you. Think you can do that for me?

S-pup barks a couple of times as he takes the locket into his mouth and wags his tail.

Good, now head on home, and for Chaos sake, try not to cause any more problems on the back this time, alright?

Barking out, S-pup agrees and turns around running out of the clearing and heading on home. Standing back up with a heavy sigh, he scratches the back of his ear and looks over the meadows. Abby and Johnny do the same thing as they hear something and see a truck pulling up with a crate in the back of it as a few people get out. One of which was the head park ranger who was a tall hound dog, in a park ranger's uniform with a star badge on his chest letting people know that he was the head of the ranger within the wildlife park. He was Kevin Harper.

Abby?

You guys made it good. And Mr. Harper you came too!?

Yes, once I heard that Atlantia had been found. Where is she now?

Atlantia is in the cave. It looks like the Bear was trying to help her and the pups out as best as he could. But it doesn't look good for either her or her pups.

Alright. Everyone get ready to move her and the pups out to the facility right away!

YES SIR!

The others get things ready to tranquilize Atlantia and move her out as Kevin talks with Abby, Johnny, and Lance about what happened.

I see so you don't know much huh?

Sorry no. But I hope to talk with them both soon. Right now they're heading to the hospital for medical treatment.

I see. Well thank you, Officer, please keep us posted.

Will do.

With that said and done, and with Atlantia and the pups safe and sound they all move out.

(AN: Hey all, CJ here. So a very important update here. My stories will be put on hold yet again for a time. I am in the process of packing and getting ready to move. I will be working on them in between packing and running around to make sure we have everything, but for a time everything will be put on hold. Also, I am sorry for this late update as well. I've been under a lot of stress from friends on discord, and many other things, Not to say I've been working on some art as well for friends. Which if you wish to see it, head on over to DeviantART and look me up under my Artist name. BelladonnaErisMonroe I think that is everything for now. And once again I am so sorry for the late update I truly never meant for it to happen, but once things settle down and such I will start things back up So wish me luck on the move and everything else.

This is CJ sending you, Peace, Love, and a LOT of hugs your way!

BYEEEE!)