(AN: FLUFFY LEMON, AND BLOOD AND GORE WARNING! MATURE CONTENT FOR 18 AND UP! NO KIDDIES ALLOWED! P.S Please read AN at the end for info thank you and enjoy!)

CHAPTER 3

KILLING FOUR BIRDS WITH ONE STONE...PART 2…

Soleanna Crisis City...0530 hours…Crisis Hotel and spa...penthouse…

Babe, your phone is going off.

Someone tells a white female bat who rolls over and snuggles under the covers trying to ignore it, and the one next to her. She wasn't ready to get up yet, not after the night she had the night before.

Rouge, come on, love. Your phone is going off. Answer it.

You answer it...Espy...no wanna get up...too early…

Sighing, the one named Espy smiles at her as he sits up and reaches over her and grabs her phone, kissing her on the cheek, and answers her phone.

Hello?

Yes, is Rouge there?

Can I ask who is calling, please?

This is Thunderhawk from the Brotherhood. We need her help!

Thunderhawk?! It's been some time. It's me Espio.

Yes, I figured as much. Now please is Rouge there? We need her help.

Hold on, I'll try again to wake her.

Looking over at Rouge, he gently shakes her awake getting a muffled grumble from her.

Rouge, Thunderhawk is on the phone. He says he needs your help. It sounds important.

Tell him to call back in a couple of hours when I'm awake.

Sighing he relays the message.

Thunderhawk, is there a way you can call back in a few hours when she is more awake?

I wish I could but Specter asked for her pacifically. This is a matter of a worldwide emergency, Espio!

What do you mean by a worldwide emergency?

It would take too long to explain right now. Right now tell Rouge I have a job for her and we're willing to pay her well for it.

Alright, I'll try again, hold on.

Once again, he tries to wake Rouge, getting the same results. But he keeps at it telling her that Thunderhawk said it was an emergency and that Mobius was in danger. Growling out, and sitting up she glares at Espio holding out her hand for her phone. He hands it to her as she yells at Thunderhawk.

DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT TIME IT IS YOU SPIKY HAIR RAT!?

Y-yes I know, and I'm sorry, but this is a huge emergency, Rouge! I promise we will pay you for your help!

This better be good then, to get me up before ten! I am NOT a nice bat when I'm up before ten in the MORNING, SO START TALKING!

Gulping was heard on the other end as Thunderhawk started explaining things.

And that is everything, Rouge. So you see now why we need your help?

Yes, I do. But don't you think this is a bit far-fetched?

I know it sounds like it, but I swear I'm telling the truth. So please, can you get to the island ASAP?

Espio?

Already two steps ahead of you, baby. I'm calling Charmy now and waking him to see if he can help us. I think he should still be in Crisis City unless he and Saffron left for home.

Alright, Thunderhawk, we'll get packed and try to be there sometime today if we can. Are you sure that the Island is close by?

Yes, this is the time of year when it comes close to Soleanna and Seaside Bay.

What about old Knucklehead? Where is he?

Visiting Dr. Starline and his family right now. We spoke to him but there was a problem on his end.

Alright, I'm getting ready now. I'll call you once we're up in the air.

Alright Rouge, thank you.

They end the call when Espio finishes his with a heavy sigh.

Well, Charmy said he can't help us. They just left for home a couple of hours ago.

Meaning we need to book a shuttle up to the island. When is the next one?

The first one out is in two hours and a half hours. Meaning we have time to spare.

Then I'm going back to sleep.

You do that and you'll never get up. We may as well start our day and get ready.

Or…

Or?

We could have a little fun while we're awake?

Rouge gives him a sultry look and Espio catches on.

It has been a couple of weeks since we've done it huh?

Yes, with trying to set up a new Club Rouge here in Crisis City and you working on solving cases, it has been hard. So what do you say, handsome?

Rouge leans into him, rubbing his bare chest, making him chuckle. He takes her hand and kisses it as he rolls her over onto her back and lays on top of her, kissing at her neck and down to her bust and back, where they share a kiss. Rouge looks at him with half-closed eyes and giggles getting comfy.

How about you do that thing with your tongue I love so much?

With pleasure.

Tossing the blankets off them, he reveals her to be in a dark purple strapless lingerie babydoll nightdress with matching panties. He opens her legs and takes hold of the lacy panties she had on and starts pulling them down slowly as he kisses her exposed midsection, making her giggle out. As he pulls her panties down more, he sees that a string of her wetness was attached to them and he looks up and smiles.

You were not joking when you said you were in the mood. You're already wet and your panties are coated in your juices, babe.

I know, and not to say when you get ready to dig in, you'll find something more as well.

She tells him with a wink. Tilting his head, he leans in and kisses her as he reaches under her top and grabs hold of her large DD-size right breast and he uses his free hand to reach down and gently rub her. She gaps out as she feels him and she bites down on a finger as he rubs at her clitoris. He moves some of her top away and starts licking at her nipple and sucking at it, making it hard. As he plays with her breast, he starts kissing down her body and to her toned midsection, and back up. He rubs her clitoris more and moves his fingers down till he is at the entrance of her womanhood where he presses his fingers between her lips and teases her.

E-E-Espio...don't…don't tease me...please…

Chuckling he pushes his fingers into her womanhood making her gasp out, and lays her head back on the pillow, and grabs the bed sheets. As he starts fingering her he notices she feels warmer than she tends to and looks up at her.

Rouge...Are you…

Rouge pants a little bit and looks at him with a sultry smile.

Surprise, handsome.

Chuckling out, and not wasting a moment, he leans down and dives into her womanhood and he starts licking her. Between him fingering her and licking her she was becoming wetter by the moment, making her juice flow out, and what an amazingly sweet taste he was getting. Her juices to him tasted like sun-kissed berries till at last he finally shot his tongue into her womanhood making her cry out as she wiggled it around.

OH, CHAOS! YES!... THAT'S IT, BABY...RIGHT THERE! D-DON'T STOP….OH, CHAOS...PLEASE DON'T STOP!

Espio chuckles out and keeps going. As he goes deeper, he feels the tightness in his boxers and stops for a moment, and licking the juices off his face he sits up, making Rouge look at him a bit annoyed.

Hey, I didn't say you could stop! Get back down there, right now! Or so help me, CHAOS!

Heh, heh...just hold on love. Let me take my boxers off first.

Huh? Mmm...little Espio wants to play as well huh?

Rouge asks playfully, licking her lips.

Yes, he does.

Espio replies back and takes off his boxer revealing his thick nine-inch long, and four-inch round cock. Upon seeing it, Rouge licks her lips and sits up more and leans over and takes a hold of it, and starts rubbing it.

Whoa?! Hey now, hold on, little Miss eager.

Espio chuckles out as Rouge looks up at him already licking at it.

Sorry, hon, but Mama wants now.

Chuckling out, Espio manages to get into position and lay back on the pillows with his legs spread apart as she lays on top of him with her back end to him, as she continues to suck at his cock. As she does that he continues to eat her out and continues with his tongue and going deep within her. They keep this up for a time, till Espio stops and slaps her ass making her yelp out and look over her shoulder at her.

I'm almost ready.

Good, because I don't think I can take it anymore. This heats its starting to build up to its boiling point.

Nodding, Espio pushes himself up as she leans her front end down and he lays over her as he lines his cock between her lips rubbing against her. She pants and moans out as the tip of it finds its way between her lips and hits her clitoris. He humps her a couple of times allowing the tip of his cock hit it, making her gasp out and whine, begging him to put it into her already. Chuckling out, he slaps her ass hard, making her cry out.

You forget who's in charge right now baby.

P-Please...Espy...I...I can't...take it anymore….please stick it in me and BREED ME!

Now that is more like it.

Espio chuckles out and rams his tip into her clitoris once more before he forces it into her hard. She grabs the bed sheets once again and cries out as she arches her back. She feels him hitting her sweet spot on the first shot, as she clenches around his cock already wanting to cum.

Oh, sweet CHAOS…Rouge…

Espio grits his teeth as he waits for her to relax. After a moment he could feel her relaxing and he starts thrusting into her, going slow at first but he picks up speed, going harder and deeper every time, Rouge moans and pants out as he hits her core with every thrust, getting her deep and hard. Panting, and moaning come from both of them as sweat builds up. Espio leans over her, she folds her wings and he takes hold of her breasts and fondles them as he humps her hard. They keep the position for a bit, till Espio pulls out and turns her over onto her back where her wings splay out as he brings a leg up to his shoulder and holds onto it as he rams into her. Her breast bounces with each thrust as she digs her nails into the sheets as he grunts with each thrust into her tight womanhood. They kept this up for a time, doing several positions till she was on her back and she was thrusting into her.

E-Espio...I think...I'm...oh, CHAOS….Harder!

Grunting out Espio thrust even harder into her, hitting her core with everything he has. Each thrust is harder than the last. Rouge reaches up and pulls herself up as she rides in his lap, making him go even deep to the point it felt like he would break her cervix. She cries out in blissfulness every time her cervix was hit and lays back down bringing him with her.

Rouge...I'm...I'm...about to cum…

Cum into me…please...fill me with your seed and breed me!

A-Are you sure?!

Espio pants as he keeps thrusting.

Y-Yes...Oh...CHAOS….this feels amazing...please...Espy baby...more….fill me…Harder! Break my core and ram into my womb! Fill me with your hot seed!

Rouge cries out as he keeps banging into her. Espio grunts out, feeling himself ready to burst into her. His cock pulses hitting her g-spot as it rubs her. As he continues, Rouge's phone goes off, but she ignores it as Espio looks at her. She leans up and kisses him shaking her head.

Don't you...dare...stop...or so help me...chaos…

I...wasn't planning…Shit…you tightening around me….oh, CHAOS…

Her phone soon stops as He keeps going but it ends up ringing once again. Again they ignore it as they keep going, not stopping for any reason. Espio had been waiting for this day for a long time since they started dating over a year ago and he wasn't about to let anything stop them. Even Rouge had been waiting for this as well, and now that she found the one man she truly wanted to be with for the rest of her life, nothing was going to stop her. The phone goes off three more times, but they ignore it as Espio keeps ramming into her and he could feel her tightening around him. His cock starts pulsing letting her know he was ready to cum. Rouge could feel this and moan out.

E-Espio...I'm...I'm ready….oh, HOLY CHAOS! I'M READY TO BURST...

SAME...BABY...JUST A BIT MORE…

Wrapping her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck, Espio takes hold of her, and holding her close he rams right into her, as Rouge's phone goes off again. Espio growls as he reaches it, and not caring who was on the other side to hear their lovemaking, he answers it…

THIS BETTER BE FUCKING GOOD TO BOTHER ME AND MY GIRLFRIEND!?

Espio yells pissed, panting hard as he keeps going as the person on the other line answers them a bit scared.

S-S-Sorry to...to bother...you...Master...E-Espio...s-s-sir...b-b-but there is….is someone here...looking...for you and….and Mistress...R-R-Rouge…

Growling, he rams into her once more with such force, he ends up passing her cervix and into her womb where he lets load after load of his hot seed fill her. Rouge's eyes fill with hearts as she is filled to the core as she yells out his name and cums with him.

EEEESSSSPPPPIIIIOOOO!

S-S-Sir?! IS EVERYTHING ALRIGHT?!

The guy on the other end asks having heard Rouge scream out in what sounded like true pure ecstasy as she ends up on cloud nine with the most intense orgasm she had ever had. Espio grunts out as he holds her close in his lap and the phone in his other hand as they ride out their orgasm together.

At the front desk...

The guy on the other end could hear them panting as he looked at the one waiting to speak with them. His face was as red as a tomato and even the one waiting for them looked a bit embarrassed themselves. Not to say the early morning staff that was close by had even heard them. Some looked pretty flustered at what they heard, and others whispered among themselves. The guy pulls at his collar, as if it was getting a little hot in the room, looks at the one waiting, and chucks out sheepishly. But they didn't see them, having looked away trying not to show their embarrassment at having heard their lovemaking. Not sure what to do, he coughed into his hand and was about to hang up and let them ride it out when Espio spoke.

We'll...We'll be down...in...in about...twenty...minutes…

There was a click after that and the line went dead. Clearing his throat, he slowly hangs up the phone and composes himself as he addresses the one looking to meet with Rouge and Espio.

Heh...so ah...They said they would be down in twenty minutes...ah...Miss…

Huh? What?

She looked at the receptionist confused, but he could see that the woman before him was still a bit flustered.

Your name?

OH, RIGHT, RIGHT! Heh...I'm Acela! Acela Earhart. Charmy and Saffron sent me here to help them out with something.

Acela was a beautiful slender five foot six inches tall Kit fox. Her fur was in several shades of gray, gray-browns, and cream white. She had deep lavender ice eyes that sparkled in the light of the waiting room. She had on a brown and tan pilots jacket with cream wool lining, a white women's slim-cut white tee, a set of goggles on top of her head, a pair of jeans, some brown work boots on, and a large wrench in a holder at her hip, and a set of dog tags on a chain around her neck, and lastly she had a pair of leather gloves in her hand. Her hair was dark coal gray and cut short, and her bangs were brushed off to the side. In her ears, she had small gold hoop earrings.

Ah, I see. Well, Miss Earhart, if you could have a seat in the lounge and I'll see to it that you have something to eat and some coffee why you wait, on the house.

Well, thank you, for that sir. But I get the feeling they're gonna need an hour at most after what we heard.

Acela giggles out making the guy blush and cough in his hand.

Indeed.

Giggling out, she puts her gloves into her pockets and walks over to the lounging area, and has some coffee and a little something to eat. About an hour and ten minutes later, Rouge and Espio finally come down, cleaned from their little romp, and dressed and ready to go. As they talk to the receptionist he has someone show them where Acela is, and they follow behind. As Acela was relaxing, and finishing off her coffee the maid greets her and introduces them.

Miss Earhart, as requested, Mistress Rouge and Master Espio are here. If there is anything more you need, please let us know.

With a bow, the maid leaves as Acela stands up and shakes their hand.

Hello, my name is Acela. I'm a friend of Charmy's and I've come to take you to Angel Island.

Well before we go anywhere, I want some of the breakfast buffets, and I REFUSE to go anywhere till I have something to eat.

Rouge saunters off to get some food as Espio chuckles out.

Please forgive my Girlfriend, she's not much of a morning person till she had something to eat and her first cup of coffee.

Not to say it wouldn't surprise me if she gained a bit of an appetite after what we heard.

Acela giggles as Espio blushes. He coughs into his hand and sits down as someone comes along with a cup of green tea for him.

Yes...AHEM... Well, about that…

Acela holds up her hands giggling and shakes her head.

What happens in the bed, STAYS in the bed. Besides, I don't think it's very good breakfast talk anyway if you catch my drift.

Acela winks at him, making him chuckle as Rouge comes back with food for her and Espio.

Yes, I guess you are right.

Hey, I for one don't care what people think of me or us for that matter. If I want to tell the juicy deets of what happened in bed, I will. Screw everyone else for giving me the stink eye. Just means they're jealous because I have a better man that can truly rock my world and get my core. CHAOS! I don't know if I'll be able to walk right for a WEEK after what he did to me in bed.

Rouge chuckles as she pops a strawberry into her mouth with a smug look. Espio chuckles, shaking his head as he addresses Acela.

Anyway, I'm Espio and this is my girlfriend, Rouge.

Pleasure.

Rouge says.

Nice to meet you. Charmy said that you needed to get to Angel Island fast.

Yes, we do.

Well, once Miss Bat…

Rouge if you please.

Right. When you're both done eating, we can head out to the airstrip and take off. Till then is there anything else I should know?

They talked for a bit and soon they were on their way.

Somewhere out in the middle of the ocean...0200 hours…

Ma'am, the results are the same as last time.

Did you get them on video for Ivan?

Yes Ma'am.

Good. With all we've gathered so far I think that is enough. We'll be arriving back at base tomorrow. Lock the emerald up for now and go rest.

Yes, Ma'am!

Her soldiers do as they are told and she turns around on her heels and walks off to her quarters. As she walks back she thinks about the last few days. Of what she lost and what she had gained. Growling, she places a hand over her midsection as she enters her quarters and closes the door behind her. But as she enters her quarters and to her bedroom, and takes off her shirt, showing her tank top something catches her ear. Slowly she pulls her gun and walks back into the main of her quarters holding her gun up and looks around. Growling softly she looks around but sees no one there.

Strange? I swear someone is here, but I don't see anyone. Nor do I feel any electromagnetic waves.

Humming out and narrowing her eyes, she checks her room over just to be sure. But after checking and double-checking it, she shrugs and goes back to her bedroom, and gets ready for bed. But that nagging feeling of someone close by was still there. Whoever they were better be ready, for Risa Germory wasn't a Saber Tooth to be fucked with. Tonight would be a night she would be sleeping with her gun close by. Something she hadn't had to do in a long time. Scoffing, she lays down and puts her gun under her pillow, and gets ready to fall asleep. After a time, and with her quarters dark, all except the lights outside. A lone figure steps from the shadows and over to her laptop. Their footsteps were softer than air on the cold metal flooring in the room, as they made their way over to her computer. They boot it up and start typing away at it looking for the data the Rise had been collecting about the Chaos Emerald and whatever else they could get. As they type away at it, they insert a flash drive and download everything they found onto it, and at the same time, they implant a digital worm to gather data for them and send it back to their team for future use. As they type away, they look up and over at the door as they hear footsteps and someone speaking softly. Thinking fast, they place something over the laptop to hide the light and they quickly make their way to the back of the door to hide. They hold up a strange-looking item and get ready to knock whoever it was out before they could alert Risa.

Hey, Sam, what are you doing?

Shh...keep your voice down or you'll wake Ma'am Risa up. I just want to check to make sure everything is alright. It'll be just a moment.

Alright, but be quick.

The one named Sam nods to his friend, and quietly opens Risa's door. He walks in and over to her room and quietly opens it and peeks in, seeing her asleep. Nodding that everything looked alright. He checks things out and walks right out. Not seeing the person in the room. Waiting, and making sure that the night guards were gone, they go back over and remove the cloth they put over the laptop and see that the files and worm were almost done. The worm program was the first to finish and the image of a cute little worm with a bow on its head wiggled off to go hide in her system. Not far behind were the files and data they needed.

"Perfect now to input the code to slow this bitch down. She will regret she ever fucked with my family. I just hope Lulu's little worm does the trick for Legen. We need everything we can get. Now let's see if I can try and snag us that emerald why I'm at it."

looking up as they hear something, they take the flash drive and shut down her laptop and they hide back into the shadows and head right for the door, and leave just as Risa comes out to get herself some water and heads back to bed.

Sighing, and looking down both ways. They tap the side of their ear and call their friend.

Hey, I got the files and placed Lulu's worm. Now I'm going to go see if I can't snag us a Chaos Emerald.

No Boba, you're to come back right now. It's too risky to try and get that Emerald.

I got this, Legen, don't worry. They have yet to find me. But you know we need that Chaos Emerald. We can't let Ivan get his hands on it.

Besides, I got his back, and I know where they're keeping it. It shouldn't take long.

Malory, no. That is an order. You're both coming back now.

Forget it, bro. Just because you are the oldest doesn't mean you are the leader.

Dude!? I AM the leader you dork. Mom put me in charge! Now, do as I say and get back here!

Boba makes static sounds as he moves on down to his right.

What...was that?… ssskkk….Can't hear...ssskkk......you...to...ssskkk...much...ssskkk….messing with...ssskkk...back...home...soon.

DON'T YOU DARE PULL THAT FAKE STATIC SHIT ON ME BOBA WOLFANG MANCHESTER! BOBA ANSWER ME RIGHT NOW! BOBA!

Boba and Mallory cut their link to the base and speak with one another.

Eeesh, we are SO gonna get it when we get home.

Yeah, but at least we'll have a Chaos Emerald in tow. Now, where do I go from here, sis?

Right, take your next left up ahead.

Humming out, Boba does as he is told and soon, with the help of his sister, he finds where they're keeping the Chaos Emerald.

Right, I found the Emerald, now what?

Not sure. The guards look tight. Maybe Legen was right? Maybe we should pack up and head back?

Forget it, Mal, we're already here, so may as well go for it. We got this.

Alright, fine. Do you have one of my spy bugs?

Yeah?

Then let it go and let me see what I can do.

Alright.

Taking out one of Mallory's spy bugs. He lets it go and she takes control of it and flies into the room. She could see everything from it, along with how many guards there were.

Hmm, it looks to be about a dozen guards. But I do see the safe the Chaos Emerald should be in. If I can get my bug over there I can hack the system and try and take the Emerald. But we need a distraction first. Think you can pull something up?

Leave it to me I got an idea. Give me a moment.

Giving her OK, Boba sets about to create a distraction. He moves behind some boxes and takes off some smoke pellets and rolls them near them and after a moment smoke fills the room as a soft whipping sound was heard along with the grunts of several men, followed by hard thuds, and the calls of others trying to figure out what was going on. The smoke clears and all that was left was Boba and one very confused guard at seeing their friends knocked out cold. She had her back turned to him as he held his hand up and caught something. Her ear turns to the sound and her with it. When she looks behind her she sees Boba standing there dressed all in black. She holds up her gun and grits her teeth growling out.

HOLD IT RIGHT THERE! HANDS WHERE I CAN SEE THEM!

But of course.

Boba casually says as she holds them up. In his right hand was a Boomerang. The guard eyes it and narrows her eyes as she yells at him once again.

TOSS THAT BOOMERANG OVER TO ME NOW AND GET ON THE GROUND!

Nodding, he tosses it at her, and it goes flying in the air and at her, but she manages to move her head out of the way and she growls at Boba.

WHAT THE HELL ASSHOLE!?

Sorry, bad aim.

JUST SHUT UP, TURN AROUND, GET ON YOUR KNEES, AND PLACE YOUR HANDS BEHIND YOUR HEAD, NOW!

But of course.

He does as he was told and gets on his knees and puts his hands behind his head. She growls and walks over to him not once taking her sights off him. Watching carefully. Once near she lets her gun rest on her side and takes hold of his right hand and forces it behind his back, following his left.

I don't know how you got onto the ship but Risa will have a FIELD day with you.

Boba chuckles out catching her attention. She eyes him and pulls his head back looking into his eyes.

What's so funny, punk!? HUH!?

Oh, nothing.

Nothing huh? Well, you won't be laughing for long once Ma'am Risa gets a hold of you.

You mean IF she gets a hold of me?

What are you talking about?

You do know what a boomerang is right?

Yeah?

And you do know what they do right?

Yeah, they come...oh...shit…

Boba gets a huge grin on his face as she looks behind her a moment too late and gets hit right in the face with his boomerang and is sent flying. She hits a stack of crates and she ends up being knocked out cold. Chuckling out, Boba holds out his hand, and his boomerang comes back to him. He puts it back in it's holster and walks over to where Malory was almost done hacking into the system for the Chaos Emerald.

Nice going, Boba.

Thanks. How's the hacking coming along?

Almost there….AH-HA! I'm in!

Mallory calls back as the digital lock beeps a few times as the passcode is entered. The wheel turns and the door opens up and inside the safe was the Chaos Emerald that Risa had Stolen. Boba goes to reach for it when Mallory stops him.

DON'T MOVE YET, BOBA!

Huh? Why not?

Because there could be extra security measures.

Like what?

For one, laser beams. It wouldn't surprise me if there was a silent alarm alerting Risa right now. So we need to hurt but be careful now hold on.

Mallory sprays some special fog into the safe, and sure enough, red lasers show up.

Told you so. And it's a good thing too because if you had just reached in there, you would have lost your throwing arm and bye-bye boomerang.

Geez, thanks, sis. So can you disable them?

Already on it. But you have three seconds to reach in there and get it. Now on my mark...GO!

The lasers flicker out as Boba reaches in there quickly and grabs the Emerald and pulls it out at the last second as the lasers come back on.

Yes! Got it! And Legen said we couldn't do it. Well we showed him, didn't we?

Bet your top dollar we did. Now come on. Meet me back outside and hurry. There is no telling how much time we have left!

Right.

Not wasting a moment, Boba closes the safe back up and runs out of the room with the Chaos Emerald in tow. He puts it into his satchel and runs for it. Being careful on his way out to not get caught. He makes it back to decks and the rendezvous point just as someone catches him.

HEY! HOLD IT RIGHT THERE! DON'T MOVE!

Shit, I've been had, Mal!

Don't worry I'm on my way now!

The guard yells as more footsteps are heard and several more men and women come running.

DON'T MOVE! HANDS IN THE AIR WHERE WE CAN SEE THEM!

Shit!

Thinking fast, Boba makes a run for it and takes out a couple of guards.

USE THE STUNNING SHOTS! TAKE HIM ALIVE!

The leader of the guards calls out as another hits a button close by making the alarms go off and alerting everyone on the ship.

MAAALLLOOORRRYY! HURRY!

Boba calls out to his sister at the same time ducking from getting hit by one of the stun shots that end up hitting one of the other guards in front of him.

I'm doing my best! Just try and fight them off for as long as you can, I'll be there in five!

I don't know if I HAVE FIVE OR NOT! JUST GET YOUR PURPLE-GRAY FLUFFY ASS HERE...GAH!

Boba ducks as someone tries to punch him. But he sends an uppercut at them and they fly right into some others. He steps on them saying sorry at the same time as he jumps up and grabs a rope and starts climbing his way up to the next level. As he sets foot on it, someone yells out having spotted him and he grits his teeth and finishes pulling himself up as he pulls out his boomerang and yells out.

ZIP ZAP BLAST!

Electricity surrounds his boomerang and he throws it at the guards. It hits them, shocking them as they go down. As he runs, he catches it and turns around, and throws it once again, catching a few more off guard. It comes back to him as he grabs another rope and swings around to meet it head-on and catches it as he holds out his legs and smashes his feet right into three guys and sends them flying. He lands close by and once again makes a run for it, heading towards where the crane was at. He turns a corner and nearly gets hit in the face with the butt of someone's gun, but at the last second he slides onto his knees and they miss him as he hooks their leg with his boomerang making them fall over. Not wasting a moment, he punches them, knocking them out as gunshots go flying past him. One of them nicks his arm and he hisses out, now realizing they were using real bullets this time.

SHOOT HIM DOWN NOW! BUT DO NOT KILL HIM! LEAVE THAT FOR RISA!

Mal! HOW MUCH LONGER! THEY'RE USING THE REAL DEAL THIS TIME!

ETA IN TWO MINUTES!

HURRY!

Boba yells at her, as more shots are fired. They go flying by him, as he comes to a spot with nowhere to go. As he looks for a way out, a shot hits him in the shoulder and he yells out and falls to his knees. He grabs ahold of his left shoulder and hisses out as another shot hits him in the leg as he tries to stand. Blood leaks out of his new wounds as he curses out.

Fuck!

Grunting out he stands up and leans on the crane and looks up. He knew it would be tricky but it was the only way. He was about to jump up when the guards surrounded him holding their guns at him.

That is enough! Don't you dare more or we'll shoot!

Shit…

Growling, and holding his ground as he tries to think of a way out, till there comes a sound he thought he would never be so happy to hear as of right now.

CHAO POW BAM!

Everyone looks up as they hear the cries of what sounded like Chao. As they look around they see three Chao flying in fast and they stop looking cutely at the guards.

Heh...what's this? A three little balls of marshmallows? What are they gonna do? Be cute till we drop dead?

Boba chuckles out and answers him weakly, as he hisses out.

Don't underestimate the power of cute with the triplets, Mate. Or you're gonna regret it.

Huh?

The guard looks at him and before they know it, all three Chao attack the guards. Biting, hitting, and using every trick they could. Soon the guards were down and out as several stood back to DUMBFOUNDED to realize that most of their friends had been taken out by Chao. One of them, a Pink and black one, growls at the ones still around snapping them out of it. They scream and make a run for it. They run past Risa who had several more guards with her, and she looks between them and to where they came from.

What in the world?

Risa hurries with her men only to find that most were knocked out cold. As she looks up, she sees Boba with the Chao and growls, yelling out.

GET THEM NOW! I WANT THEM ALIVE!

Boba looks behind him and gasping out he starts limping to the edge of the deck he was on. Blood runs down his back and leg from where he was shot as the Triplets attack Risa and her men, keeping them distracted long enough for him to escape. As he nears the railing he hears a cry and looks behind him to see one of them, the pink and black Chao being held and crushed by Risa.

YOU INSIGNIFICANT LITTLE RAT! I'LL CRUSH YOU!

CHO CHA!

The other two Chao go flying back to help their sister when Boba yells out.

BOLT SURGE!

Once again, electricity surrounds his boomerang, and he pulls back his arm, and just as he gets ready to throw it, someone shoots him from behind and hits him on his right side. The bullet goes right through him but doesn't come out. He screams out as he throws it at the same time, he goes falling over the side of the railing. His boomerang hits Risa dead on and shocks her and her men who were close by. The pink and black Chao was let go of during the process, and she flew off. The pink one looks back at them and sees Boba's boomerang and flies back down and grabs it just as Risa reaches up to grab her, but she is faster. She and her siblings watch on till at last Risa and her men fall to the floor of the deck groaning out. Risa gets onto her knees and looks up growling as the Pink and Black Chao pulls down an eyelid and blows a raspberry at Risa.

CURSES!

The Chao fly off to go meet up with Mallory who had Boba safely in the sidecar of her hover bike.

Hurry you three! Boba is hurt badly and we need to get him home to mom.

They call out to her and hurry as Boba moans out.

I'm...fine...Mal...Nothing...Oh…everything...spinning...

YOU'RE NOT FINE, BOBA! YOU'VE BEEN SHOT THREE TIMES! CHAOS! LEGEN WAS RIGHT! WE SHOULD HAVE GONE BACK WHEN WE HAD THE CHANCE!

Mallory yells at him as the three come back and sit in the sidecar with Boba being careful not to hurt him further. The Pink and Black Chao coos out and hands him his boomerang. He manages to focus his sigh long enough to smile softly at her and pet her.

Thanks...Op...al…

He says as he reaches for it only to black out at the last second and his hand falls. Mallory looks at him as Opal coos out loudly and sits down holding his boomerang close, as Mallory puts her hover Bike into overdrive and flies off fast. Risa watches from below them and growls. Turning around she hurries down to where the Emerald was being kept. Once down she sees her men and women coming out of it as she inputs the code and opens the safe only to find it empty! Growling, she roars out pissed.

BLAST IT ALL TO FUCKING HELL! YOU WORTHLESS FUCKING SHITS! I'LL HAVE YOUR HEADS FOR THIS! I HOPE IVAN FUCKING KILLS YOU ALL!

Risa roars out as she takes the closest one to her, grabs their face, and digs her claws into the side of their head till they went right through them as she smashed their head into the wall, over and over again. Blood flies about, hitting some close by as Risa keeps this up till she is satisfied. Growling, she lets go of the one she had killed. They fall to the floor and they leave a bloody streak down the wall. Everyone watches her as she looks at them. Growling low, she jumps at another of her men and starts clawing her to death till she shoves her hand through her chest and rips out her heart, and crushes it. Blood goes squirting as it hits everyone. Even Risa. Some looked as if they would be sick, but Risa only relishes it. Letting out a sigh she walks off with the heart still in hand and her men move out of her way, giving her an extremely wide girth. Growling, she looks at them and yells out as she throws the heart at them where it hits the wall with a splat.

GET THIS MESS CLEANED UP RIGHT NOW! THAT'S AN ORDER!

Risa leaves the room leaving her men to clean up the mess.

Monroe Haven the next day...0700 hours…

Right I have the keys and my Gear in the car. But explain to me WHY I have to ride with you when Birch said he could give me one?

Because I want to make sure you don't go back on your word of getting my car and Bike detailed.

Oh, COME ON, Bio-Freak! Give me a little credit!

Eris tells him with a fold of her arms slightly annoyed.

I NEVER go back on my word.

What about that time at the bar back in Huckshore?

Huh?

Eris looks at him tilting her head trying to remember when it hits her. She facepalms and groans.

I WAS DRUNK! And I forgot the next day…you STILL not gonna let me live that down are you?

Nope.

Shadow chuckles, making Eris drop her arms to her side and roll her eyes at him. She giggles and points a finger at him that had the keys.

Imma let you have that one, Bio-Freak since I was only seventeen then. But come on I've kept my word before with a MINOR exception.

Just get in and drive, Belladonna.

Eris scoffs, shaking her head as she gets into his car and starts it up. Shadow hops on his Motorcycle and starts it up and it purrs to life. He nods to Eris and she nods back. Birch and the girls are in his truck and start to pull out as Skye and Jax yell just as they pull out.

HEY! WAIT FOR US! WE WANNA COME TOO!

Huh?

Eris and Shadow look over to see Jax and Skye running to them with S-pup in front of them barking. Jax and Skye race to get the front seat first when Skye calls shotgun first making Jax yell at him and take a friendly swing at him. S-pup hops in the back as Jax hops in with him, as Skye takes the front seat and buckles in. Eris looks at the two of them smiling with a raised eyebrow.

And just how do you plan on getting back? The car is gonna take at least a day or two. But there is only room for one more on his motorcycle. I mean S-pup is welcome to come since he can fly back. I know you could last a few hours in the air, Skye. But even still, what about Jax?

Hey don't worry about me, I'll find my own way back unless the car gets done early.

It won't. Shadow picked out a place that will clean his car with a fine tooth comb. So it's going to be a day or two.

Well, you have your gear, so why don't you ride it home?

I only brought it to ride around the beach...and I just realized that there will be no way to bring it back home with me...SHIT!…

Eris groans out as she hits her head on the steering wheel. Shadow chuckles out and puts the kickstand down on his bike and hops off and goes over and takes her Gear out of the trunk and puts it in the stand in the garage as he looks over at her chuckling.

Didn't think did you, bird butt?

Noooo...And I wanted to ride today too. NOT FAAAAAAAIR!

Eris whines out looking up at him, seeing him come back. There comes another chuckle as Eris looks up seeing Birch next to her door. He leans down and gives her a kiss on the side of the head and smiles at her.

Give me a call and I'll come to get you and the boys later. This way you have time to ride and shop, and do whatever you want to down at the coast.

REALLY!? Are you sure it's no problem!?

Eris looks at him hopefully, making him chuckle once again and nod.

Just call me when you're all ready to come back. Now, I must get going, I'm running late, and…

At that moment his phone rings and he reaches for it and answers it.

Hey, Mr. Harper, Good morning!

Hey, Birch, I was wondering if you're coming in today or not.

Yeah, I am. I'm just running behind is all. I and the girls stood the night with Eris and we got a late start. I need to drop the girls off, then I'll be right over.

Why not just bring them with you? They could help out today with what we have planned.

Alright, let me ask them. Give me a moment.

Hey, Micha, Tinnie, how would you two like to help me out today? Mr. Harper said he could use some extra hands today for something he has going.

Tinnie and Micha look at one another and back and nod.

That's a yes from them. So we'll be there in about an hour.

That's great news. See you later then.

Hanging up he smiles and gives Eris another kiss.

Just call when ready.

Alright, thanks, baby.

Hey Birch, if we grabbed our gears could you bring them home as well at the same time?

Sure, Skye.

Eris?

Skye looks at Eris with big blue eyes hoping she would say yes. Giggling, she nods.

OK, OK, will swing around and get yours and Jax's gear then we head out. Is that alright with you Shadow?

Yeah, it's fine. But let's hurry, I don't wanna get stuck in traffic.

YES!

Skye fist pumps the air happily. Nodding, and giving Birch one more kiss goodbye, he leaves as they swing around to Skye's workshop and grab their gears, and put them in the trunk with Eris' and they head on out. As they pull into the city limits, and out onto the highway they see that they were just in the midst of early morning traffic. But even then they manage to make amazing time. As they hit the coast Skye couldn't help but unbuckle from his seat and stand up.

SKYE!? What are you doing!?

Imma fly from here! The sea breeze feels amazing!

Giggling out, Skye twists his tails together and jumps into the air and he goes flying back as Eris drives on. Laughing out he takes off and flies right above her and Shadow. Skye calls out to Shadow who looks up and he holds up his hand, and Skye gives him a high five as he flies ahead of him, making Shadow chuckle and speed up to follow him. Eris laughs out as she drives on. Seeing that the front seat was vacant, Jax unbuckles and is about to hop in front when S-pup beats him to it.

H-HEY YOU BUCKET OF BOLTS!

S-pup barks at him and sticks his tongue at him making Eris laugh.

Sorry, Jax. Gotta be quicker than that.

No FAIR.

Ha ha! Everything is far with S-pup. Isn't the right boy?

Eris pets him as he barks out. Jax scoffs and sits back down in a huff. Eris looks at him in the rearview mirror shaking her head and rolling her eyes at him.

Oh quit being a big baby, Silverwolf. Tell you what? You can ride up front with me and Birch on the way home. How's that?

Fine.

Jax grumps out, making her laugh. As they drive on Skye manages to keep up and as they hit the strip Skye sees a couple of teens playing with a beach ball, and not being able to help himself he flies in and catches the beach ball making the teens look around wondering what happened to their ball.

Up here! He he!

Huh!? HEY! OUR BALL!

One of the teens calls out, making Skye, and the teens laugh as he cocks his head over to a bit of the beach and flies off with their ball. They follow him laughing as Skye stops and plays a game of catch with them. As they drive on they finally come to the place Shadow picked out to get his car and Motorcycle detailed. Parking Eris looks at the place

Scraps Details and paint, huh?

Yeah, they have a perfect five-star rating, and the comments on their website said this was the best place ever.

Alright, then let's head in and see what can be done.

Eris and Jax get out of the car followed by S-pup. Shadow turns his bike off and hops off as the head inside. A bell above the door chimes as a Lop ear Rabbit comes out from the back. She was dressed in a green jumper that had all sorts of pain and stains on it. It was down around her waist and tied with the sleeves, showing a white tank top. Her ears here tied back with a scrunchy, her right ear was pierced and had a gold hoop hanging from it, and her left one had a couple of bands on it. Her fur was a tan color with a dark brown patch over her left eye. Her bright green eyes shine when she sees who had walked in.

Welcome, friends. My name is Amber. How can I help you today?

Shadow smiles as Jax looks around at some things, and S-pup sniffs at a couple of things.

Hello, Amber. I came to get my car and Bike detailed today.

Alright, give me one moment here.

She walks over to a computer and types away at it.

Can I get your name, please?

Shadow The Hedgehog.

Alright, Mr. Hedgehog. See here. AH-HA! Here we go. It looks like you ordered the special paradise package for your car, and see here...the special number six for your bike. Alright, I'll just need your card and billing address and I'll send someone out to bring them in.

Now just hold on a moment, Bio-Freak. Just how much is this going to cost me?

Eris looks at him with a fold of her arms annoyed.

Oh, you're the one paying for your boyfriend?

Amber looks up at her, with a bright smile. Eris' right eye twitches as she growls out.

HE IS NOT MY BOYFRIEND!

Eris yells out with a stomp of her foot making Amber rear back a bit and look around awkwardly. Giggling out as she clears her throat.

Right, sorry. So ah...anyway… for both packages it will come to a total of twenty-four thousand even.

WHAT!? BIO-FREAK!

Shadow chuckles as Jax looks over his shoulder and walks over to see what was going on. Shadow had a shit-eating grin on his face as he folded his arms and looked at her.

Sorry, but we had a deal, Belladonna.

I hate you SO much. You do know that right?

Eris glares at him as she scoffs and walks over to the counter and slams her card down.

Why do I get the feeling a bet was made and you lost?

Amber asks her as she takes her card and starts typing away at the computer.

Because it was... Damn fucking hedgehog…I hate him so much...I want him gone from the face of the planet….no, I want him dead...then I'll bring him back and kill him again...fucking no good hedgehog….

Eris huffs out as she mumbles under her breath. Amber giggles softly as she hands her card back and a receipt to sign. Taking them back, she gives Eris a copy and smiles brightly.

Alright, everything is ready. I'll have someone bring in your car and Bike, Mr. Hedgehog.

I'll bring in my bike, and Eris and Jax need to get the Extreme Gears out from the trunk.

Alright, then pull up out back and I'll meet you there.

Amber walks off calling out…

HEY POPS! GET READY WITH THAT BACK DOOR! WE HAVE OUR NEXT APPOINTMENT COMING IN RIGHT NOW!

ALRIGHT, BABY GIRL! CJ, COME HELP ME YOU LAZY LUG!

ON IT POPS!

As they head out, Shadow hops back on his bike and starts it up as Eris hops in the car with Jax and S-pup and they drive around back. Once they get there, they see a couple more Rabbits waiting for them.

Go on ahead and head to your right sir. Miss brings the car over to the left. That's it, easy now. Good, good.

An older Lop ear rabbit guides them as a younger male guides Shadow. Once they are parked, Shadow gets off, and Eris gets out with Jax's and S-pup and walks over and opens the trunk and they grab their gear.

Jax, get Skye's gear if you would, please.

Yeah, sure.

As he reaches in, the younger male rabbit sees the Gear Eris had a hold of and his eyes light up.

No way...It can't be?

Huh?

Eris looks over his way and sees him looking at him with bright blue eyes. She smiles at him as she takes off her sunglasses and puts them on. Amber walks over to her brother and tilts her head at him as she folds her arms.

CJ, what's gotten into you, little bro?

Sis LOOK! It's her! It's the Crystal Queen!

Huh? Do you mean the pretty, Loxy over by the car?

YES!

Oh, come on, CJ, there is no way it can be her. She hasn't been seen in a few years.

Amber tells him with a fold of her arms.

It's her, I know it is!

Amber rolls her eyes at her brother and shakes her head at him. She looks over and sees Eris handing Shadow his Air skates and he switches them out with his regular shoes. She watches on, shaking her head, not seeing it, and sighs. She turns around and slaps the back of her brother's head.

OW!? AMBER! WHAT THE HELL!?

STOP GOING GAGA OVER THE CUSTOMER AND GET READY TO WORK! DAD! CJ IS BEING A DWEEB AGAIN!

The older Rabbit sighs, rolling his eyes as he comes over to his kids. He folds his arms as CJ yells at Amber.

I AM NOT! I'M TELLING YOU IT'S HER! IT'S THE CRYSTAL QUEEN!

Alright, you two. Enough. We have work to do and it's going to take a couple of days just to do the car. Now come on, hop to it.

BUT DAD!

No buts CJ. Not get to work!

Excuse me? Sir?

The older Rabbit looks over his shoulder and sees Eris standing there smiling at him. He turns around and holds out a hand for her to shake.

I'm so sorry about my son, he can be a bit of a fluff brain sometimes. Anyway, I'm Scraps, the owner of this place, and you've met my Daughter Amber and this is my son Scrap Junior. Or CJ for short.

Well, it's nice to meet you, sir.

So, is there anything I can help you with, Miss?

No nothing, but I just wanted to come over and say CJ is right. I am the Crystal Queen.

HA! I TOLD YOU, SIS! I TOLD YOU IT WAS HER! AND YOU SAID IT WASN'T! DO I KNOW MY EXTREME GEAR RIDERS OR WHAT?

CJ jumps up in the air a couple of times excitedly. But on the third jump, he comes down and nearly knocks over Shadow's bike. Seeing this Shadow growls out as he and Amber hurry to catch it before it falls. They both look at CJ who looks behind him and laughs sheepishly

WATCH WHAT YOU'RE DOING YOU DAMN RABBIT!

WATCH WHAT YOUR DOING, CJ, YOU STUPID MORON!

YOU COULD HAVE SCRATCHED MY BIKE!

YOU COULD HAVE SCRATCHED HIS BIKE!

Both Amber and Shadow look at one another and narrow their eyes. They hold their gaze as they look back at CJ slowly with the intent to kill him. Even his Father backed off, allowing Shadow to yell at his son.

I'll give you one free hit, Mr. Hedgehog, and make it a good one.

Amber growls pissed. Shadow chuckles as he helps right his bike.

If I did that I'd more than likely send him to the ER.

Amber giggles, and looks at him.

Do it, at least then he'll be out of the way.

H-HEY!?

Their right, CJ. It's fine and all that you were right for once, but you need to be careful in here.

His father tells him with a fold of his arms as his father goes on.

If something happened to His bike, it would be on us, not them. Meaning he could end up suing us in the process, and that alone could not only ruin the reputation we have but our livelihood as well. I've told you time and time again, to be careful around here.

S-Sorry dad. Sorry, sir. I'll be more careful next time. I promise.

You better, kid. Because I've heard NOTHING but good reviews about this place, and it would be a shame if it were to get even ONE bad review.

Yes, sir. Again I'm so sorry.

Shadow scoffs out and walks off calling over his shoulder.

DON'T let your son near my Bike.

You have my word, Mr. Hedgehog that he will not go anywhere near it. Amber, the bike is yours.

Yes, daddy.

Amber glares at her brother, and just for the hell of it, she hits the back of his head again and points to the car.

Start getting the car prepped now, dork.

Yes, sis.

Eris laughs as she walks off to join the others, on their way out, Shadow remembers something and goes to the car and empties the glove box, making sure that everything was out of it. As he holds some papers and what looks like a box of some kind he walks over to Scrap.

Excuse me?

Ah, Mr. Hedgehog, how can I help you?

I didn't think about cleaning out my glove box beforehand, but I was wondering if you have someplace I could keep these? Their my car's registration and my gun.

A gun?!

Don't worry I have a firearms registration. I keep a gun on hand should something happen.

I see. Well, we can put everything in a small box and in our safe if you like.

I would, and I'll even pay you for it if need be.

No need to worry. AMBER!

Yeah, dad?

Amber comes over as she puts on her jumper and zips it up.

I got a couple of things here that Mr. Hedgehog needs to be kept safe. Could you find a box and put them into the safe, please?

Yeah, leave it to me. I saw your bike has a saddlebag so I'll put them in there and lock everything up for you, sir.

Taking everything she walks off and does as she was asked. Thanking Mr. Rabbit Shadow goes to catch up with Eris and the others. He finds them outside where Skye was waiting for them.

Are you ready now, Bio-freak?

Yeah.

Good. Now, it's only ten in the morning so there is still time before lunch, so how about we do some shopping? And maybe Mystic Cuts is open and Reggie will be there and I can FINALLY get my hair done.

Yeah, it's looking a bit too long, even for you, Eris.

Skye points out smiling.

Right then how should we do this?

I say you go see if you can get your hair done.

Yeah, we'll come with and figure out what to do next.

Alright, come on.

They hop on their gear and fly off to Mystic Cuts. S-pup follows them as he runs alongside them and within about twenty minutes they make it there. They hop off their Gear and walk inside as the bell over the door rings.

I wonder if they're in? I mean the door was opened?

Just a moment, I'll be right out!

A male's voice calls out from the back. After a moment, a male Craven comes out from the back, moving the beaded curtain out of the way and adjusting his glasses. Upon seeing who he was in his shop, he stops and looks at Eris who was looking at some hair products, and thinks.

"Shit, she's here. But it's too soon. What do I do now? I can't let her see me. But it's too late, they heard me and the hedgehog and the others saw me. Fuck! I guess there is no way to avoid it now. I just hope everything won't get messed up with meeting her now."

He thinks to himself as Shadow sees him looking nervous for some reason. The guy looks at Shadow and they lock eyes for a moment. They share a moment as if they were having a silent conversation that only they knew. Tilting his head, Shadow walks over to him and holds out his hand to him. The craven takes it and shakes it.

Do...I know you from some place.

It is hard to say, sir. I could have one of those faces, heh…

The Craven chuckles out nervously.

Anyway, I'm Reggie, the owner of this fine establishment. So what can I do for you all today?

Shadow eyes him one last time and removes his hand from his, getting a feeling from him.

Yes...well, we came here with the Lyox, and she needs a haircut badly.

At hearing her being called, she turns around and walks over smiling brightly. But upon seeing Reggie their eyes lock as a connection forms between them. They were quiet for what felt like a long time when Skye clears his throat.

Um, excuse me?

Huh?! Oh, yes, right. Right. What can I do for you, sir?

I was wondering if you carried any of the Mango and Eucalyptus Blast, products by Kelly Koala?

Ah yes! We JUST got some more in, try looking over near the back, and as for you Miss, what are you looking for? Something for the summer I take? Something short, but not too short, am I right?

Thanking him, Skye heads over to see what he had as he greets a Vixen coming in from the back.

Y-yes that is right? I want it long but short as well.

Right, if you come with me we'll get started with a wash and go from there.

Before leading her away he looks at Shadow and Jax.

And what about you two?

I'm good, thank you. I just had a trim the other day.

Same. Skye, you ready? We'll come back for Belladonna later.

ERIS! Bio-Freak E-R-I-S! Eris! Get it right already! Sheesh!

Shadow scoffs as Skye finishes paying for what he wanted and sees if they could deliver it.

It should arrive at your place in a couple of days.

Thanks!

Skye walks over to Shadow and Jax, as Shadow tells Eris they would be back in about an hour. The Vixen walks over to Reggie and looks at him with a small smile as Eris sees her for the first time.

Hello?

Miss, Eris, let me introduce you to my lovely wife, Regina.

Hi. Ah... would you mind if I stole my husband for a moment?

No, go right ahead.

Nodding, Reggie follows her to the back knowing what this was about.

Reggie, it's too soon, isn't it?

Yes, it is, but there is nothing that can be done about it. She already knows there is something special about me, but I just don't know HOW much she knows. I wish we could have had more time but there is nothing I can do now. I'm not sure what will happen once she turns me so I need you to promise me that you will go before it happens.

Reggie, I can't! We should have had more time together! You PROMISED we would.

I know, but you know how the cosmos work. I can not control them. Please promise me you will be gone before it is too late.

Letting out a heavy sigh, she nods at him. He takes hold of her and brings her into a hug and they share a moment. After a moment, he holds her at arm's length and smiles at her.

Do you have everything you need? Money? Clothing? Your passport?

Yes, I have everything. But isn't there a way to make her let you stay as is for just a bit longer? Even one more day?

Letting out a sigh he kisses her forehead and holds her chin. Tears well up in her eyes as she wraps her arms around him and he holds her once again as he gently pets her.

Easy now, my love. Easy. I know it's hard. But we knew this day was coming. I do wish we could have had more time, but it seems like things are moving faster than even the spirits have foretold me. I truly am sorry my pet.

Just promise me you'll be careful.

I'll do my best. Now, look at me, please.

She looks up at him, and he smiles and wipes away her tears with his thumbs.

Give me a smile. Even a little one? So I can have even a little bit of hope to hold onto.

Nodding, she smiles at him, and he leans in and they share a kiss. After a moment, they broke apart.

Go now, why there is still time, and be safe my love.

I will, I promise. I'll let her know as well what happened.

Thank you. Remember, you have a part to play in this as well. It's a small part, and you won't like it, but it must be done.

I know.

Good, now go! Hurry!

Giving her one last kiss, she turns around and leaves to go get the rest of her things. Sighing, he clears his throat and composes himself, turns around, and goes back out. He moves the beaded curtain out of the way only to find Eris leaning on the counter where the cash register was at. She smiles at him, giving him an all-knowing look, as her eyes flash a deep ruby red color. They lock eyes and he frowns at her, while she smiles at him. She lets out a little chuckle as her Black Arms markings show up on her fur, and she speaks to him.

I'll be kind and let you have a boon. But be warned, this will be the only one you get. Once turned you are mine. So you may ask for whatever you wish, and I'll see that it is granted...Spirit Seer.

Reggie looks at her, as he takes off his glasses and cleans them. He places them back on and pinches the bridges of his beak and sighs, letting his arm rest as he looks at her.

If I had to ask for one thing, it would be to please spare my wife in LITERALLY all of this. That is if you can.

I could, yes. But even you said that the cosmos can not be controlled and that she has a part to play in all of this. So even if I could keep her out of it, she will still be mixed into it.

True…

Reggie thinks and then nods.

Then I ask this of you. Should you meet on the battlefield, or any other given time, whether it be you, or your followers, I ask that no harm comes to her. Not a scratch or hair out of place. I wish for you to keep her safe and alive. She means more to me than you could ever know...TRINITY…

Trinity chuckles out nodding.

Very well, Craven. So long as you follow me and my orders, then I will see to it that no harm comes to your beloved pet.

Eris walks over to him and places her hand on his chest and smiles up at him. He looks down at her and brings his arms around her and nods.

Then so be it. Your boon is granted.

Letting out a sigh, they lean into one another and kiss. Just behind the beaded curtain, Regina watches on, as tears fill fall. As they break apart, a soft purple glow surrounds Reggie, and her mark shows up on him. Chuckling out, she sees Regina and smiles.

He is mine now, Regina Lockwood. As a boon, I promised him that no harm will come to you. Whether we should meet on the battlefield or not. No harm will come to you, even from my followers. Consider yourself lucky, Vixen. Now go before I change my mind.

You will PAY for this, Trinity. Mark my word, you will pay for taking him away from me. When the time comes, you will go down, I'll make sure of it!

Trinity chuckles out as she walks over to her. Reggie turns around now having been fully turned and watches.

I'd like to see you try, Vixen. No one will be able to take me down. Once I regain my full power and true form, no one will be able to stop me! AH HA HA HA HAAAAAAA!

Go, now, Vixen, and don't show yourself to my Princess again, unless you wish to be killed on the spot.

REGGIE!?

Trinity chuckles out, as Regina looks at her.

YOU SAID NO HARM WOULD COME TO ME! YOU PROMISED HIM!

Ah, Ah, Ah! I promised that I or my followers would harm you. I never said anything about him not hurting you. Imagine the look on his face when he realizes he hurt the one thing he cared about the most, AH AH AH HAHAHAHAAAAA!

Laugh all you like, bitch, but the jokes on you?

Trinity looks at her amused and cocks an eyebrow at her.

How so?

Reggie is now one of your "so-called" followers, is he not?

He is, so what? What is your point?

My point is, now that he is he can't harm me.

Trinity thinks for a moment realizing she was right. But she also realized something as well, and chuckles out, giving her a sly grin.

AH, but the thing is, he never said anything about HIM hurting you either.

What?!

He asked that I nor my followers lay a finger on you and that no harm comes to you. BUT he never said anything about HIMSELF laying a finger on you, OR harming you. Just because he is now one of my followers, does not mean he can not hurt you should it come to it. And to be honest, should you keep annoying me, you will meet your demise sooner than later. This is your last chance, go now why you can. Or I'll sick your husband on you. Your choice, Vixen.

Trinity smiles coyly at her as the realization hits Regina. Knowing she was right, and knowing that the time wasn't now, she takes the bag she had and slowly backs up.

You will PAY for this, Trinity! MARK MY WORD YOU WILL PAY FOR IT!

She tells her, turns around, and leaves. Reggie clears his throat and Trinity glances at him.

No, let her go. Let's see what her part is in this little scheme of things. I'm curious about what her part will be. If I think it is too dangerous and it could ruin things, then I'll have you go after her. For now, you're to act like nothing has changed and keep playing your part. Remember, you promised you would follow my every word and orders, CRAVEN.

Reggie bows as he looks at her.

As you wish, Princess Trinity.

Good, now we've wasted enough time, and I believe you owe me a haircut. So would you mind finishing that up, please?

Reggie straightens back up and leads the way where he gets started on her hair.

With Shadow and the boys…

Hey, Shadow check this out!

Skye walks over to a Window that had the latest Extreme Gear clothing. His Gear was under his arm as he pointed at the window. Shadow comes over, and takes a look, as does Jax. Their reflection shows up making it look as if they were trying the clothing on. Jax looks iffy about his reflection in the window and what his outfit was, and Skye looked as if he was liking his.

Hmm...I don't know. Skye, switch me.

What? NO! I like mine. Switch with…

Finish the senescence and I'll see to it that you have rat tails for the next six months.

Shadow barely glances at Skye who chuckles out nervously.

Right...I mean it would look good on you, Jax, maybe they have one for a male, instead of a female?

Even if they did, I doubt I could afford it.

What about you, Shadow?

Shadow looks back at the one in the window and hums out. The outfit that was shown had a black tank top and over it a mini black and red leather jacket. On the tank top was a simple logo of a Wolf in a lighter black, with red and white. In it's mouth was a red emerald resembling that of the famed Chaos Emeralds. Under it read, Chaos Howlers. An Extreme Gear team, and Band he knew and loved. With it, it had a pair of two-toned riding shorts with white accents, and the logo embroidered on the left side. It even had matching shoes with the logo on the outside of the shoes. On top was a pair of shades that brought it together. Shadow hums out with a little smile liking how it looked.

I didn't know that the Howlers' new line was out already. I and bird butt were here a few weeks ago and I didn't see anything from them. Of course, we were shopping for her since she needed some things.

Wait? You're a Chaos Howlers fan?

Are you kidding, Jax? Shadow is a HUGE fan of theirs, even if he won't admit it.

Huh? I never would have guessed in a million years he was into pop culture. I mean with his moody disposition and take-no-shit attitude and all of that.

Jax says with a fold of his arms, slightly impressed with him.

Looks can be deceiving, Silverwolf. Now come on.

Turning around, Shadow heads inside to ask about the clothing, as he is helped, Jax and Skye look for something as well. Within a few moments, they had what they wanted and left, with Shadow in his new outfit and looking downright amazing. The same was with Jax and Skye.

Thanks, Skye but you didn't have to, you know?

Yeah, I know, but you look amazing in them, and they suit you.

I could say the same to you. That color of blue really compliments your golden fur.

Thanks. So now what?

Do you think Eris is done yet?

Maybe? It's been about an hour now, though with how much her hair has grown, it could be a bit yet.

Then why don't we go look around some more?

Alright, what about you, Shadow?

Shadow wasn't paying them mind, due to something, or SOMEONE, catching his eye. He watches them closely and hums out.

Ah, Shadow?

Hey, look over there, Skye.

Huh?

Skye looks over and among the crowd of people, and he soon spots a very pretty snow-white Siamese cat with Cream colored markings, and soft brown hair. She was in a pink crop top, with a pair of short-cut jean shorts, and a denim jacket over her top. She had rhinestone sunglasses on top of her head, and her hair was pulled back into a ponytail. She had white sneakers with pink socks on, and around her neck was a pink choker with a bell on it. In her ears, she had gold hoop earrings and several bangles on her wrists. To bring it together, she had a white leather belt with a pink rhinestone heart buckle.

Isn't that…?

Tabitha Kitten? Yeah. Come on, let's go.

Jax and Skye look at one another and follow him. As they near her, they see that her back was to them, so she didn't see them coming up to her. But Shadow saw was some big and gruff-looking hybrid that looked to be a cross between a wolf, and Stag, pulling her close to him, as he invaded her personal space, making her feel uncomfortable, as she tried to push him away with little effort. The Hybrid wasn't taking a hint, as he holds her close and moves his hands down lower on her body, where he grabs her ass. He chuckles out as he leans down and nuzzles her. She growls at him as she tries to slap him, but he catches her and holds her closer. She looks at him with pure fury as she bares her fangs at him and hisses at him.

Let me go you big lug! I told you already I'm not interested in you!

Sorry baby, but you're mine. Now, why don't we go over here and I'll show you a good time.

He pushes her into a shaded corner where they were to not draw attention to themselves. But Shadow saw them and could hear her, and told Jax and Skye to wait there. Shadow ups his step and hurries to go help her. He rounds the corner and sees that she tries to put her Gear between them but the Hybrid takes it and tosses it to the side, making Tabitha even more pissed.

HEY! WATCH IT! THAT IS A SPECIAL COSTUME-MADE GEAR!

So what, now shut up and get ready for some fun!

The Hybrid leans down and kisses her neck, as he reaches down to her lower parts and starts rubbing her womanhood. Tabitha keeps trying to push him away even stepping on his foot which did little good, as she starts to become scared.

HELP ME! SOMEONE, PLEASE HELP ME!

Go ahead and scream all you want, baby, I happen to know that no one…

HEY, BASTARD! I BELIEVE THE LADY SAID HANDS THE FUCK OFF!

Huh?

The hybrid looks behind him right at the same time that Shadow runs down the alleyway and jumps up and hits him in the face, and sends him flying back, causing Tabitha to fall back with a scream as she hits the dirty ground hard. Shadow lands on his hands and knees and slowly stands up in front of Tabitha. The hybrid groans, as Shadow scoffs and turns around and leans down, and holds out a hand to her.

Are you alright, Miss Kitten?

Tabitha moans out as she looks up at Shadow, as her vision slowly clears up.

Wha...?

Her vision soon clears up and she sees Shadow standing before her holding a hand out to her. Her bright green eyes widen in surprise as she slowly reaches up to take it when she sees that the hybrid was coming out of it and warns him.

L-LOOK OUT! HE'S COMING!

Shadow's ears perk up and he looks behind him at the same time he sees the hybrid running at him with his antlers down and ready to kill. Growling, Shadow grabs hold of Tabitha making her scream out surprised, as he jumps up and over the Stag-Wolf and kicks him hard, once again sending him flying. He lands in a pile of trash and groans out again.

Are you alright, Miss Kitten?

Y-Yes. Thank you. Normally nothing shakes me, but there is something wrong with that guy. If you hadn't come along when you...SHIT! HE'S GETTING BACK UP!

Shadow looks over and lets out a sigh as he sets Tabitha down, and pushes her behind him.

Listen, asshole just stay down before you regret it!

F-Forget it, hedgehog. I've been after Tabitha for nearly three years now, and I will not give up. She will be mine!

Wait? YOU'RE THE ONE WHO'S BEEN SENDING ME ALL THOSE CREEPY EMAILS, GIFTS, AND SUCH FOR THE LAST THREE YEARS!? NOT MY EX!?

Damn right, baby. And when I get my hands on you, I'll truly show you how I feel as I make you mine! HA HA HAAAAAAA!

Becoming annoyed he leans down and gets ready to ram into Shadow with his deadly-looking antlers once again. Looking behind him and Tabitha he sees that there was nowhere for them to run with the alleyway being a dead end. Growling out, he looks at Tabitha, and grabs hold of her.

Hang on, Miss, Kitten, I'll deal with this asshole.

Right.

She wraps her arms around him, as he picks her up bridal style, and gets ready. The Stag-Wolf charges and at the last second, Shadow once again jumps up and over him with ease. The Stag-Wolf skids to a stop and turns around as Shadow lands right next to where Tabitha's Gear was tossed. Setting her down, he bends down and hands her Gear.

My friends should be close by. A Black Cougar named Jax, and a twin-tailed fox named Skye. Look for them and stay with them. I'll deal with this asshole.

Forget it, I want to skin this bastard ALIVE! IT'S BECAUSE OF HIM I BLAMED MY EX AFTER WE PARTED WAYS ON A GOOD NOTE!

Tabitha growls pissed, as she tosses her Gear down and stands on it, and it comes to life.

IF YOU WANT A PIECE OF ME, ASSHOLE, THEN COME ON! I'LL SHOW YOU WHAT TABITHA KITTEN CAN TRULY DO!

Roaring out, she charges up her Gear's power boost at the same time, the Stage-Wolf brushes the side of his nose and gets ready to charge. Before Shadow could stop her she was off, at the same time the Stag-Wolf came charging at her…

Back with Jax and Skye…

Both the boys had gone looking for Shadow since they didn't see where he went too. But as they come close to the alleyway, they hear a female's voice, and they yell out.

DIAMOND SWAN!

Jax, Skye, and several people who had been close by, all cover their eyes as a bright light shines forth from the alleyway, and a silver-white something was sent flying by them, making people yelp, as Jax, and Skye peek between their arms and see that it was a Mobian that went flying. They go and crash right through a storefront, making the people inside scream out more surprised than fear. After the light dies down, a crowd starts to form as they had seen something going on. Jax and Skye look at one another and down the alleyway and see both, Shadow, and a very pleased Tabitha Kitten who scoffs as she rides her gear down the way with Shadow following behind and sees Sky and Jax as they exit. Tabitha flies on and looks down at the Stag-Wolf and hops off her Gear, picks it up, and looks in the window front and sees the display all messed up, and glass all over the place. He groans out and looks up as she steps into the display window and without warning, she pulls back her leg and with one swift movement, she kicks him in the face and sends him flying back yelling out.

THAT'S FOR STALKING ME, SENDING CREEPY ASS EMAILS, AND INAPPROPRIATE THINGS! YOU FUCKING PIG! AND THIS…

As he is sent flying into the shop, even more, people move out of the way as he crashes into clothing shelves, racks, and other things. He hits a wall and grunts as he falls down. People look between him, and a very pissed-off Tabitha as she drops her gear and runs into the shop via the window, jumps him, and stomps on his midsection, as everyone from outside watches on. Shadow, Jax, and Skye, push everyone out of the way and they run into the shop as they catch her taking hold of his antlers, and with a hard kick in the face, she manages to break his antlers right down to the base, making everyone flinch out, and the few Bucks who were around, hiss out as blood is sent flying. It lands on some people, but mostly the clothing that was around.

IS FOR RUINING THINGS BETWEEN ME AND HUNTER, AND FOR RUINING MY FAMILY!

She tosses the antlers to the side panting hard. Rage fills her as she yells out and jumps down on him and starts punching him over and over again. Everyone watches on, too scared to stop her as everything she had been holding in for years was finally let out. She keeps at it, hitting him over and over again, beating him shitless, as tears of rage and anger spill over, till someone runs over and grabs ahold of her as she kicks and screams

ENOUGH, TABBY! YOU'RE GOING TO KILL THE FUCKING BASTARD IF YOU DON'T STOP!

LET ME GO RIGHT NOW! THAT PIECE OF SHIT NEEDS TO BE FUCKING KILLED! HE WILL PAY FOR RUINING EVERYTHING! I'LL NEVER FORGIVE HIM!

ENOUGH, TABBY BABY! ENOUGH! HE'S NOT WORTH IT! JUST STOP!

Tabitha kicked and screamed as the one holding her back could see that she was not going to stop. With little choice, he turns her around and slaps her hard across the face, finally snapping her out of it. Everyone, but Shadow, gaps, as Tabitha looked ready to kill the one who hit her. But when she saw who it was, tears filled her eyes.

HUNTER!?

Standing before her was a handsome-looking black tiger with rainbow stripes, and golden eyes.

Yeah, it's me, baby.

OH, HUNTER!

He stands there with a cocky-looking grin and he smiles at her. Tears fill Tabitha's eyes and she jumps into his arms. He laughs out and wraps his arms around her. Shadow, Jax, and Skye walk over, as Jax kicks the Stag-Wolf to see if he was still breathing. He groans out and looks up at him and passes back out.

Are you still sure you want her on your team Shadow?

Jax asks him, worried as Skye chimes in.

Y-Y-Yeah...I-I mean she is more of a Tigress, than a KITTEN!

Shadow chuckles and places a hand on his hip looking at Tabitha and Hunter. Hunter holds Tabitha's face in his hands and looks at her with such love and devotion as he answers him.

Oh, I still want her, alright. No matter what, I want her on my team.

Shadow states as Hunter speaks.

She's my Tigress and you have no idea how happy I am to be reunited with her. I've been so worried about you, baby. I've missed you so much!

OH, HUNTER!

Tears fill Tabitha's eyes as they lean in and share a kiss, making everyone coo out or cheer. Skye lets out a heavy sigh and shakes his head.

As much as I hate to break this touching moment up, we have a bit of a problem, Shadow.

Huh?

Tabitha and Hunter break their kiss and look over at the same time Shadow does, and they see Skye pointing a thumb over his shoulder and rubbing the back of his head. Walking in were three more Hybrids like the one who was still knocked out. They carried an air of authority about them, as the two females strutted their stuff as if they were on the catwalk. When they come over to where everyone was at, the male scoffs and shakes his head, looking down at his friend.

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that...hmm…

He looks around and points his fingers at Shadow, Skye, Jax, Hunter, and Tabitha.

Eeny meeny miney ...moe...

He points his finger at Tabitha and smiles at her as he tilts his designer shades and winks at her. She blushes despite herself as the Male speaks.

You, my dear, have some explaining to do. And don't go denying it either, my dear. We saw the whole thing. Oh, and where are my manners? I'm Dustin, Second to the Howling Forest, and this is Bambi on my right and Darla on my left. Now that is settled, please tell me why my brother is a bloody mess.

Dustin looks at her, non to happy, yet at the same time impressed that someone would do that to his brother.

Well…. You see…

Tabitha explains things. She tells him how she started to get packages from someone but didn't think it weird at first since she would get fan mail and packages from her fans all the time, and how after a bit, told him how she got new ones but with inappropriate items, and how she got calls from some stranger, who at first wouldn't even talk to her, and of how when he did call she could hear the sounds of him moaning and jerking off in the background. She even tells him how because of him, her sister disowned her, because he had found her sister's home and sent her things and how her little niece found one, thinking it was from her father from overseas, and they tell her how it was the same with Hunter's family, but unlike her sister, they were more understanding and tried to help. They tell him when it became too much they broke apart, staying as friends till one day Hunter got a strange package that was a foam cooler, and in it was the bloody mangled body of his missing cat, Lil Hunter. Up to now.

I see. So that is what has been going on? That explains a lot on our end. I've been wondering what was going on with him.

Dustin lets out a sigh and a shake of his head.

Indeed, Dustin. The pack will NOT be happy about this.

Darla states as Bambi speaks up as she folds her arms.

No, they will not. Especially now that the Team is down an Alpha.

It matters not. Since I will be taking over now since I am the Second on the team. But we will get to that later. Right now I am more worried about the here and now. And when mother and father find out what has happened, they will not be happy about this, and on behalf of the family, I am truly sorry, Miss Kitten, Mr. Frank. I'll see to it at once that everything is taken care of. Tell me, do you have any of the letters, notes, packages, etc, etc, still?

I'm sorry. When I saw that I called SSCPD.

Hunter tells him.

Same with me. When thing's started to get weird I called the SSCPD as well. So they should have everything.

Tisking, Dustin walks over to the counter and takes out a checkbook, and starts writing a check. Once done he hands Hunter the check.

That is for the shop and all the damage done to it. I do hope one point five million will fix and replace everything.

What?!

Hunter looks at the checks and sees that one Check was for said amount.

Are you KIDDING ME!? This will be more than enough, and we should be able to remodel as well as the boss has been wanting to do! Er… so long as I still have a job after this whole shit. UGH! Maggie is gonna SKIN me alive when she finds out!

Hunter looks sheepishly as Tabitha takes his hand and looks at him with a smile. He looks at her and smiles softly back.

You let me worry about that. This is my brother's fault and my family will make sure everything is fixed.

Are you sure?

Yes, I am. Now my family's lawyers will be in touch in a few days, and maybe we can sort this mess out without having to involve the public, yes?

Hunter and Tabitha look at one another, and back as they smile and nod.

Good. Here is my card with my personal number on it.

He hands them his card and smiles.

I'll get in touch with you in a few days and we can do lunch and work things out.

Thank you so much. Dustin!

Tabitha thanks him as does Hunter. Smiling, he turns to leave with the girls and on his way out, Dustin sees that Shadow's new outfit was ruined and, letting out a sigh.

Tell me. How much did your new outfit set you back?

Why do you wish to know?

Shadow asks him with a fold of his arms.

Just humor me, please.

Not getting it he answers.

About one hundred and fifty dollars, why?

Thought so.

Sighing out, he pulls out his wallet and hands him three hundred.

This should do for your ruined outfit. Shame too. It truly does look good on you.

Huh?

Shadow looks at his outfit and sees now how it was indeed ruined. Letting an annoyed sigh, he thanked him and took the money.

Again, I am sorry for everything, and if you need anything, just call me.

Dustin hands him his card as well and he and the girls leave.

Well now that is done, do you think Eris is done yet?

Hey, Skye, don't forget why we were looking for Tabitha in the first place.

Oh, crap I forgot with everything going on.

You guys were looking for me? How come?

Shadow lets out a sigh and pockets the money and looks at her.

In truth, I had hoped to do this alone, and maybe give you a call and do lunch or something. But I guess now that we are here I guess it doesn't matter.

Listen if this is about us getting together, I don't think that…

Shadow holds up his hands and stops her, letting out a small chuckle.

No, nothing like that. No, I wanted to talk to you about joining my Extreme Gear Team, for not only the preliminaries but for the World Grand Prix.

WHAT!?…

Back at Seaside Bay...0600 hours...

Knuckles was on the beach waiting for everyone. He had gotten little sleep, and it showed a bit that he did. He stood there with his arms folded as he watched the sun coming up to start a new day. As he stood there he closed his eyes in thought, as a light breeze blew and moved his dreadlocks about, as he remembered the call from last night…

Flashback to last night…

"Are you sure about this, Mace?

Yes, it was the weirdest thing ever. Word for word. I'm rewriting it all now as we speak so grandfather Specter and the others can read it.

And you think the Statues of the three Guardians could have something linking to all of this?

Yes. At least that is what grandfather Specter thinks. I heard grandfather Thunderhawk giving Rouge a call to come help us.

WHAT!? Rouge? Why in Aurora's name would he call that tramp for?

Not sure? But with you down on Seaside Bay with Zachery and his family, he probably thought it would be best.

But I told him to give me a call once he found out something.

Yeah, I know, but I think Rouge owes him or something. Anyway, did Dr. Starline find out anything? About why the Chaos Emeralds have now changed? I know I told you my side of the story, but now I am wondering if he may have something more to add.

Yeah...About that little bro…"

Knuckles tells him what had happened in the last forty-eight hours and by the end of it, Mace wasn't too happy. Not with him, but with the fact that he had let the Emerald go to start with, and how he should have kept it on the Island for safekeeping. Knuckles reassures him that he was kicking his own ass over it. At least ten times over for both of them.

"So now what will we do?

I say we find out more about this golden box that Tikal showed us, and see where we can find it.

Right. I'll let grndfather Thunderhawk and the rest know, hold on, I see him coming over now. I think he wishes to speak with you.

You're right about that, Mace. Hello Knuckles."

Thunderhawk's face shows up as Mace scoots over for him.

"Hello, Grandfather.

Hello. So I take it Mace has filed you in?

Yes, he has. But do you truly think it is possible? That the three Guardians are somehow tied with all of this?

I do, yes. But how we have never truly noticed it till now, is even beyond me. Rouge should be here soon.

Alright keep me posted on everything, and Mace have that scroll translated by the time I come back with some friends. Now I need to find a way back up since Tails' plane was destroyed by that bitch.

What do you mean, Knuckles?

Mace can explain everything, but the short of it is, there was an egg boss here by the name of Risa Germory, and, Mali-Fa...

WHAT? THAT FUCKING SABER FANG WAS THERE?!

Wait? You know her?!

Yes! Yes, I do! BLASTED IT ALL TO HELL!"

Thunderhawk stands up so fast that the seat he was in falls over, and he runs off yelling over his shoulder yelling at Mace and Knuckles both.

"MACE HURRY AND GET THAT SCROLL TRANSLATED NOW! KNUCKLES GET BACK HERE AS FAST AS YOU CAN! THERE IS NO TIME! I NEED TO WARN THE OTHERS FAST!"

Mace and Knuckles look at one another as Mace right the chair that Thunderhawk was sitting in.

"I've never seen him look so...Worried? Scared? But I get the feeling this is bad news. Knuckles get back here now and bring your friends with you.

I'll do my best, Lil bro. Stay safe.

Will do. Bye.

Bye."

Present day and time…

As Knuckles replays things in his head once again, there comes a sound from behind him, and opening his eyes he glances over his shoulder and sees Bella walking over to him with a yawn as she stretches out. Letting out a sigh, he looks back out over the waters.

So, did Quick Shot find you last night?

Hmm? Huh? Oh yeah...that...Yeah, he did.

How did it go?

He's in the dog house. At least for now.

Listen, I know it's not my business, but give him a break. He went through a lot. We all did. I'm not fully sure about you guys' past and all, but it can't be all bad right?

Knuckles looks down at her with a raised eyebrow and she looks up at him and smiles softly. She looks back at the ocean and lets out a sigh.

No, in fact, it was during a mission that we met. I was in danger and he saved my life. I was a solo list and did things on my own. But one day I was paired up with someone by a client for a mission I knew I could do on my own, but the guy was persistent about me having a partner for this. I didn't know it at the time, but the client was someone I once pissed off to the point they said they would make sure I would pay for betraying them. So during this mission, we were told to find some gemstone. I was wary at first because I don't care for the whole, smoke and cloak shit. No mercenary does because most of us have a code we stick by. We don't care about not being able to meet with the client face-to-face. Too many secrets and such. But sadly we can't help it. But it was an associate of his that came to us acting as him. So I didn't know, even the guy who I was teamed up with was already working for him.

So anyway, along the way we ran into Quick Shot and the boys. Quick Shot was weary around my partner saying he felt he knew them from someplace but couldn't place a finger on it. I told him I felt it as well but I was forced to work with them. After we broke camp the next morning, Quick Shot took it upon himself to follow me. He sent Jasper and Drake to finish the job they were doing and came after me. It was a good thing too. Because when we found the gemstone and where it was, the guy I was with betrayed me. He left me to face all the traps alone why taking a secret route he already knew of. I managed all the traps but the final one was the death trap. When I finally found out what was going on it was too late. He attacked me, took me off guard, and shot me. Then he took the gem off its pedestal and the whole temple started to come down with me inside of it. Laughing, he said that the boss sent his regards and told me who it was.

Letting out a sigh, she goes on.

As I tried to get up, a pillar falls on me and I was left for dead with no way out. I had lost a lot of blood and was starting to black out. But at the last second, Quick Shot came to my rescue and saved my life that day. He manages to get the pillar off me with one of his shots and breaks it, and taking a hold of me in his arms he runs for it. We barely made it out. But when got out, I had blacked out. I woke up four days later in his hotel room bandaged up. He told me what happen and said it was a good thing he was around to save my hide. I wanted to slap the smug look off his face, but part of me knew he was right. If he hadn't followed his instincts I would have been left for dead. Once I was well again we went after the asshole who wanted payback, took back the gemstone and got my pay, and reported him after. Afterward, we went our separate ways and...I don't know to be honest. Ever since the day, when he saved me and even helped me get back at the guy, I felt connected to him. When I was on my own I never realized how lonely it was on my own. I kept expecting him to show up and protect my back, but he was never there. I….I felt so lost on my own. Like he was that something I've been missing, and never knew till he saved me you know?

She looks up at Knuckles, and he hums out with a nod.

I do know yes.

That was all he said as she looked back out across the water and went on.

Then when out on a mission to claim a bounty we ended up running into one another again. We were both gunning for the same bounty. When we saw one another during a shootout we were right in the middle of it. Like LITERALLY in the middle of it. Jasper and Drake were being held down with their own battle leaving me and Quick Shot to battle on our own. What happened next I'll NEVER forget. It was like poetry in motion. All we had to do was look at one another, and we KNEW what the other was thinking. We ended up going back to back, and we took on every jerk coming at us. He protected my back and I protected his. It was like we were MADE for one another.

Bella closes her eyes and hugs herself with a smile remembering that day. Without opening her eyes she goes on.

I wish you could have been there to have seen it, Knuckles it was so amazing. Like some kind of dream turned into a reality.

Letting out another sigh. She opens her eyes and lets her arms rest and with the smile still, on her face, she goes on.

As the battle went on he asked me what I was doing there, I asked him the same thing and when we found out, we agreed to join up together. But during it, he tells me how he had been thinking of me of late and how he couldn't get me out of his mind. Saying...no...heh…

Bella laughs, shaking her head.

Confessing that he knew that I was coming after the guy and his men and followed me. I remember looking at him with such astonishment that I was almost shot in the back and he jumps me and pins me to the ground. When he got up off me we were both blushing. And then he goes and asks the STUPIDEST question during that time we were being shot at.

What was the question?

Knuckles looks at her.

He asked me if I wanted to go out on a date with him and get some drinks when this was done.

Knuckles laughs, shaking his head.

What did you say?

I told him it was not the best time to ask for a date to get drinks. Not why we were getting shot at. He said it was the perfect time to ask. I rolled my eyes at him and pushed him off me. But I ended up pulling him back down when he got shot at, whether by accident, or fate, we ended up kissing right then and there. It was like everything happened in slow motion then. It was just the two of us, and when we broke apart, it was like we were both on autopilot. We got up, and our movements were in perfect sync. Even Drake and Jasper said that it was like watching some kind of movie or something. Once the battle was done, both I and Quick Shot held hands and walked off, completely forgetting about the boys, lost in our own little world.

Yeah, we wanted to come with you, but the constable said to let you both be. We didn't get it then and just let it go. Before we knew it you was part of our team. And what a team we became, right Jasp?

Knuckles and Bella look behind them and see Drake, Jasper, and Quick Shot come walking out from the foliage.

I'll say. I don't know HOW many times you not only helped us but taught us as well. You took care of us as if you were our mother. In truth, we wanted to start calling you that, but Quick Shot it was too soon, and now look at us? But then again we had our own problems and story as you know.

Yeah, I know, boys. And even if you did then without all the secrets back then, I would have accepted you both as my kids. I've always wanted kids. I love them. They bring me so much joy in life.

Bella sighs as she looks at Quick Shot with a small smile. He goes over to her and holds her as they rest their foreheads against one another.

Aye, one day I want kids again, love. And I know you'll make a wonderful mother.

Smiling, they share a kiss as Knuckles clears his throat.

Hey not to be rude or anything, but we have work to do. Now, where are the others at? I need everyone here.

Knuckles growls out at them as he turns around looking at all four of them, looking a bit unamused.

Right, sorry Knuckles.

Bella says as Knuckles scoffs as he looks at Jasper and Drake

What about you two lunkheads?

Us?

Jasper asks as Drake growls.

Who are you calling a lunkhead, Mate?

They hold their gaze as Knuckles folds his arms and rolls his eyes and walks off. He starts pacing back and forth starting to get antsy. Knuckles was never one to wait around when the planet was in danger. The same could be said about everyone on the island, and with the disturbing news he got from home, he was not in a good mood. Stopping near a rock he growls out and lifting his right arm and balling up his fist, he brings it down fast and breaks the rock into pieces. Panting from the exertion the others look at one another then at him. Bella was about to say something when someone walks over to him and places their hand on his back looking over to his left shoulder, he sees it was Mali-Fa, who gives him a sweet, yet sad smile, worrying as if she knew what was wrong.

We'll figure this out before it's too late. I know we will….or I hope we will. We just need to stay positive and figure things out. I know we may not have much time but I know we can do this. I know you are worried about everyone on the island but I also know they won't back down should a fight come to our front doors. But right now what we need is a leader. Someone who is leveled headed.

I'm anything but leveled-headed right now Mali.

If that was the case, then why were you picked to be the Leader of our tribe? I may have only been around thirteen then, but I remember that day well. You took over for your father, Locke when he finally stepped down as leader of the tribe. Now, look at where we are. No one ever said it would be easy, Knuckles. Being a leader is probably the hardest thing someone has to do. But I know with you leading us, we can do this. You just need to gather yourself and clear your head, and show the world that you will not back down from anything.

They hold their gaze for a moment, and letting out a sigh, he nods at her with a smile.

Thanks, Mali-Fa.

Anytime. Now, what is it you need from us?

Nodding, he straightens back up and turns around and sees that everyone was finally here, everyone but Titania and Zachery.

Where are Zachery and Titania?

Mother is with the girls right now, keeping a close eye on them, and as for Father, he said he has something he needed to dig out of storage for, Mr. Prowers.

Prince tells him as he pushes up his glasses and folds his arms.

I see. Alright then since most of you are all here, this is what is gonna happen. One, Duke you're going to have to be doing a lot of running around, do you think you are up for it?

YEAH! You know I'll do anything I can to help out, Uncle Knuckles!

Knuckles chuckles as he walks over to Duke, his feet making a soft crunching sound in the sand, as places his hand on his head, ruffling his Mohawk up and making his giggle.

Good, because you're also going to have to do your best to remember things too.

A-Alright!

Now as for you Prince, I'm going to need yours and Tails' expertise with everything computer and machinery-wise. Can I count on you both for that?

Knuckles asks him as he places a hand on his shoulder, and looks over at Tails who nods.

You know we have your back Knuckles!

Tails tells him with a big smile.

Good, then the first thing you two need to do is go help Zachery dig up whatever he needs. I get the feeling it will end up helping us out in the end.

Now as for you Mali-Fa, since you can't do much fighting right now in your state, I want you to keep watch from afar and be our eyes and ears for any activity on the Egg-net.

Leave it to me. Thanks to Prince' little bug Ivan has yet to figure out anything from us or what we may have been up to.

Good.

Bella, Quick Shot, Drake and Jasper you four are with me. I know someone in town who can help us get our mitts on some Gear. They're in town and we go way back and they owe me a few favors.

Right-o, Mate.

Quick Shot tips his hat and nods.

Good, now before we part ways there is something you all need to know.

What's wrong, Knuckles?

Last night I called home and spoke with my brother, and it turns out things are starting to heat up.

What do you mean, Mate?

What I mean, Drake is that they found something. Back home in the Grand Archives, we have a statue of the three Guardians. Of Aurora, Tikal, and Chaos himself. It also turns out my brother ended up dreaming up some kind of old scroll only he can read. He is not sure HOW it happened, but when he woke up it was right there next to his pillow.

Wait, wait, wait. Hold on a moment. You said he DREAMED up some bit of paper and he's the only one who can read it, Mate?

Yes, Drake. I know that sounds far-fetched but it's true. He showed it to me and I couldn't even read the text on it. He's in the process of writing it out for my father and the rest of the Brotherhood to read it.

So what do the three Guardians have to do with all of this, Knuckles?

Knuckles looks over at Mali-Fa and explains.

It turns out that they each hold something in their hands, that Specter thinks could be the key to this mess. He and the others are not sure yet, but they called in my Ex and she's on her way to take a look into it.

As Knuckles talks, there comes a bright light, and everyone looks over at Bella as Tikal takes over.

The item within the three statues does contain something we will need. In each of the statues, is a special artifact that could help protect the Island when it comes time. But to use them, they will need to be placed at certain points on the Island to protect it.

So you knew then?

Yes, I have always known. But though there are three right now on the Island, there is one more needed.

What do you mean?

The last part is hidden in the Felidae land. Even though I know there is peace between the tribes, they still may not give it up so easily. In truth, I do not know if they know of the threat that is about to come to the planet as of yet.

I see.

Knuckles folds his arms and rubs his chin in thought. His eyes are closed as he thinks.

Tikal, do you know exactly what these items are or look like?

Sadly I do not. I can only feel the Chaos Energy they hold within.

So they have some sort of Chaos Energy within them, Tikal?

Yes, that is right, Tails.

Knuckles? You don't think that they could be…

I'm starting to think so. There are only a few things like that that can give off Chaos Energy. But if this is the case what would happen if this Queen got a hold of them, and the Chaos Emeralds?

I'll tell you what will happen, Mate.

Everyone looks at Quick Shot as he walks over, taking a stance.

In a secret location on Mobius...0900 hours…

If that queen gets a hold of these items and they are what I think you two are talking about, then we don't have much time left. We need to get that one from those cats ASAP, and get it up to the Island NOW! If what the prophecy said about a beast rising from the ashes and burning the Island up once it wakes up, then we need to get started right now. My family is up on the island as we speak, and they could be in danger!

What are you talking about, Quick Shot?

What I am saying, Knuckles is that my family runs a special organization, kind of like the Brotherhood of the Guardians. My family, or my mother's side of the family, dates back to around the time the Black Arms first showed up here. Nearly over a millennia or two ago. They used to work side by side with them, helping them in their endeavors while at the same time collecting everything they could gather about them and hiding it. They knew that one day things would change. That something would happen. My mother's side of the family was highly advanced, just like the Echidna's. But unlike the Echidna, we didn't use the knowledge we had for selfish gain and looked down on others as if they were nothing more than ants under our boots to be squashed. No. We shared what we could with those who we knew would help us in the long run. And from it, the Order of the Crimson Fang was born. We Followed everything the Black Arms did. For the first millennia, we helped Black Doom build his battleships and made them look like temples, and hid them around the planet. But during it all, we kept collecting data about them. Creating weapons that would help should something happen. Ways to protect the planet. Then one day Black Doom left saying he would be back, and he did come back. It was also around the time the Prophecy was foretold. But not in the way you think…

Mallory was flying back to Base as fast as she could. She kept looking over at Boba who didn't look so well at the time. He had lost a lot of blood, and he looked extremely pale. Looking forward she sees that they had made and smiles.

Just hold on Boba! We're home!

As Mallory parks her hover bike, Opal flies off with her siblings as they yell out for help, which was already on its way. Ahead of them was a Weasel Wolf in a black sweater, pants, and a headset on as he and several people in doctors' coats run over with a gurney to help Boba. When Mallory sees who it was in the lead she runs to him crying.

LEGEN! HURRY PLEASE! HE'S IN BAD SHAPE!

Legen catches his little sister and holds her close, as he looks over and sees the blood. Growling, he pushes her to the side and goes to his brother to see how bad it was.

Well?! HOW IS HE? IS HE ALRIGHT!?

I am not going to lie, sir. He has lost a lot of blood. But we need to get him inside right now and get to work on him and see how badly the damage truly is.

Alright, but be quick about it and be careful with him!

The doctor's nod as they put him on the gurney and rush him inside. He and Mallory watch on as several more people come running out. One was an older weasel wolf in her forties, and the other two looked to be around Mallory's age.

LEGEN! MALLORY!

Oh, MAMA!

Mallory runs to her mother crying, as she looks down at her daughter and back up at her son.

Legen?

Legen shakes his head sadly as he walks off and to the office, his mother had given him. She looks down at Malory, hugs her, and tells them to follow her. Once inside they all sit down as Mallory stands in the middle of the room. His arms were behind his back and his head was down as he thinks. Everyone looks at one another, as Mallory tries to speak.

Legen...I…

Legen looks at her, and the look in his eyes shuts her up. He had so much rage in his eyes that it wasn't funny. He looks forward once again and he soon stops pacing and turns to her. He straightens up and narrows his eyes at her as he clenches his teeth together. Without opening his eyes he addresses his mother and siblings.

Get out. I wish to speak to Mallory...Alone... please.

No way, Legen! We're sticking around! I want to know what happened to Boba!

Growling, he addressed them one who spoke, in a calm almost deadly tone.

I said to LEAVE Nanachi! You, my mother, and Lulu. I wish to speak with my sister ALONE!

NO! Not till we know what…

THAT IS AN ORDER, NANACHI!

Legen turns on her yelling. She glares at him not backing down when his mother steps in and places a hand on Nanachi's shoulder.

Come, Nanachi, let's let Legen speak with Mallory on his own.

Yes, but mom?!

NANACHI! I SAID COME NOW!

Fine…

Letting out a sigh, Nanachi turns around and walks off with her mother and sister. His mother looks over her shoulders at him and nods. He nods back and she leaves, closing the door behind her. Once they were gone, and he knew they were far enough away, he closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and let it out before he yelled out at her.

WHAT THE FUCKING HELL WERE YOU TWO THINKING, MALLORY!?

Legen...I…

SHUT UP RIGHT NOW, MALLORY! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA OF THE SHIT YOU PULLED BACK THERE? OF WHAT YOU TWO DID! YOUR ORDERS WERE TO INFILTRATE RISA SHIP, PLANT THE WORM, GATHER WHAT DATA SHE HAD, AND GET BACK HERE! BUT NO! YOU HAD TO GO AND DISOBEY ORDERS, AND GO AFTER THE FUCKING CHAOS EMERALD! AND NOW LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED TO BOBA!

I WANTED TO HEAD BACK WHEN I SAW HOW TIGHTLY THE EMERALD WAS BEING SECURED! BUT BOBA SAID HE COULD DO IT! EVERYTHING WAS GOING FINE TILL THEY SPOTTED HIM, AND ALL HELL BROKE LOOSE!

SHUT UP! I DON'T WANT EXCUSES, MALLORY! YOU DISOBEYED AN ORDER AND NOW BOBA IS FIGHTING FOR HIS LIFE BECAUSE OF IT! WHEN MICA HEARS ABOUT THIS HE'S NOT GOING TO BE HAPPY ABOUT IT!

BUT WE…

At that moment, there comes a knock on the door. Growling, Legen calls out.

Enter!

The door opens and a bear walks in. He stops and salutes Legen.

Sir, I was asked to bring you this.

Huh?

Legen walks over to him and takes the small box and opens it. Inside of it was the Chaos Emerald. He looks up at the bear, and over at his sister who looks away. With a heavy sigh, he thanks him and the bear salutes him and takes his leave closing the door behind him. He walks over to his desk, sets it down, and leans over it. Things were quiet for a bit, till Legen slumped in his chair, leaned his head back, rubbed his temples, and closed his eyes. With another sigh, he addresses Mallory without opening his eyes.

You may go now, Mallory.

But Legen!

I SAID GO MALLORY! RIGHT NOW!

He yells at her as he stands up and slams his hands down on the desk making his point. Mallory yelps out and hurries out of the room without another word and closes the door behind her. Sighing, he sits back down and rests his elbows on the desk and folds his hands together, and rests his forehead on them as he looks down at the Chaos Emerald.

To think that it all started with this one little gem, and now it will end with it. But will we be too late? Or will we be in time to save Mobius?

I don't know. But I do know what thing?

And what is that?

Legen asks the one who spoke without looking up.

I know that everything has been set into motion. I've been keeping an eye on her as you asked me to do, and she is showing signs. I think she will be making her first big move soon, so I think we need to start stepping up our game.

Are you absolutely sure about this?

Yes, sir.

With what proof?

He looks up at the one he was speaking to and they laugh softly at him. The one before him was an extremely beautiful snow leopard. Her fur was silky white and her spots were an icy blue with light gray inlets. Her eyes were a pretty sky blue and her hair was as black as the night itself and held up in a ponytail. She had on a Fashion Nova, risk it all, off-the-shoulder black bodysuit that hugged her body's curves to perfection. It exposed her left side going from the right of her shoulder and came down and around her left breast exposing the whole of the shoulder and had a long sleeve on the right side of it leaving all of the left side bare. Around her neck was a choker with a small silver buckle that sparkled in the light of the room. Around her waist was a utility belt that hung halfway off her hip, and she had thigh-high cargo combat boots on. Her nails were painted a brilliant sapphire blue, and she had gold bracelets on, and gold hoop earrings. To finish it off, she had on a mini leather cropped Kings Wear jacket that had a belt left open, and on the sleeves, it had flames in ice blue.

Because she plans on going after the New Neo Babylon Rogues first. But I get the feeling that River may know more than we originally let on. I will admit that she is extremely smart. Maybe even smarter than her mother, Miles, and Ivan combined. I think we should push forward and ask her to join us. She could become a huge help in the end.

No.

What?!

I said no. Let things play out for now, and keep an eye on everything. But do not step in till I say so. Understand?

As you wish, Legen.

She purrs out.

But I think you're wasting a big opportunity here.

That may be, but we can't risk screwing everything up now. So keep watch and be ready.

As you wish, sir.

Is there anything more?

Yes, there is another thing.

And what would that be, Andraia?

At the Holy Summit G.U.N Base…time unknown…

My scientific special forces send word that the Gear is nearing completion. They have told me it should be ready before the end of the Preliminaries. They plan on moving it soon after to a secret location till it is time, but that is not all.

Go on?

It turns out, Ivan is after it. My inside forces have told me that he plans on helping the Queen in exchange for it. He's going to give her something that will lure the New Neo Babylon Rogues out so she can turn them to her side.

Do we know what this item is he is going to give her?

Sadly no. He's been keeping it secret. I think he is starting to suspect we may have infiltrated him.

That Ivan was always a clever one. Even more so than his father. Tell me. What are your thoughts? Are we in danger of him finding out?

No, I don't think so. But knowing Ivan he may already know, but is keeping it to himself.

Do you think we should pull your men out?

No, not yet. I have confidence in my team that they can do it.

What of the mother and child?

So far Ivan is taking good care of them as he promised Mr. Silverwolf.

Do you think we can rescue them?

It's possible, yes. But it would be a HUGE risk in doing so. For if they went missing he could go after my brother.

I still find it hard to believe you're both related with being different types of cats.

Yes, well as you know I was adopted by his family.

Indeed. Anyway, have your team keep us posted when they get ready to move. We will strike then and hopefully beat Ivan to it. That Gear could be the only thing to help stop the Queen.

Do not worry, my men know what to do...

Footsteps echo down the hallways as several people walk up to a huge tightly sealed vault. Around them, people were working on a variety of things behind specialized reinforced fifteen-inch thick Plexiglas. Everything from new weapons, vehicles, and more. Some testing out other things as well. But the group walking down the hallways soon sees the vault. On the front of it was the G.U.N logo. The guy in the middle nods his head, and one of the soldiers that were with him opens the doors. He inputs the code and it beeps as it grants him access. They walk in and everyone in the room looks up to see who it was as one of the scientists walks over to him and holds out her hand to him.

Special Staff Agent Armada, sir. It is good to see you, sir. What brings you by?

Agent Armada was a black wolf with silver eyes. He was in a light gray Sweater with a pair of camouflage cargo pants. Around his chest was his holster for his guns, and he had a green beret with the G.U.N ranking logo stitched in front. On his left chest was a gold nameplate. Like the men with him, he also had combat boots on.

I came to see how our new toy is doing.

He tells the woman before him with his hands behind his back.

So far everything is going according to plan. But there is one small problem.

And what would that be?

He asks her with a raised eyebrow. If there was one thing people could tell you about Armada, was he was a very strict, wolf, and took his job seriously. Sometimes he takes it TOO seriously and sometimes forgets the importance of what is at risk, but if anything and the woman before him can back this up with being his Fiance, in life itself. But it was what drew her to him. Other than his overly sexy looks. But they always kept things strictly business when at work….MOST of the time. But there have been a few times they will sneak off for a little time together. letting out a sigh, she walks off and over to her personal, and tells him. He follows her telling his men to wait by the vault doors.

To make sure it works, we need a Chaos Emerald. Even one will do for now. But we have yet to find one.

Yes, I've been told they are hard to find. But the Rogues did find one right under our noses.

Yes, so I saw the news about that. Meaning for all we know there is another one right under our noses, and we wouldn't be able to tell. Without one we won't be able to truly test it out.

Then what do you suggest we do?

For now? Nothing. All we can do is make sure everything else is working and wish for a miracle we find one. If we have even one then we can use it to test it out and try to calculate the other six Chaos Emeralds' powers and adjust the input then for them so the thing doesn't blow up. But right now it is only a good guess of what to expect.

I'll see to it that is our next top priority. In trying to find a Chaos Emerald.

Thank you...Sasha.

Armada's ears perk up as he looks down at the woman and smiles softly at her. He takes hold of her and holds her for just a moment.

Anything for you my love.

She pushes away from him, while still in his arms and looks at him. They share a look and he sees the asking in her eyes, he leans down and kisses her. They broke apart letting their foreheads touch one another.

You do know we have an audience, right, Alice?

Let them watch. I don't care. Besides, they already know we're together.

Alice giggles. Alice was a hybrid of Overlander and Wolf. It wasn't uncommon for Mobians to go out, date, or even marry and have kids with their human counterparts, and Alice was the result of her parent's love. Her ears, tail, and hair were a deep blue. The tip of her tail was tipped black. She carried more of her father's looks than her mother's. But she did have her mother's eyes and body figure. She had on a turtle neck sweater with a tight black pencil skirt on, along with black nylons, and Marry Jane's. Armada chuckles enjoying this little moment. But it is soon ruined when someone comes over to them and clears their throat.

Alice, I'm sorry to ruin this rare moment with Sasha, but we need you to look at something.

Alice lets out a slightly annoyed sigh, making Armada chuckle.

It was nice while it lasted, wasn't it my dear?

Yes indeed.

She laughs and looks at the person who hands her a tablet. As she looks over it, her eyes widen in shock as she looks at her co-worker.

Are you sure Tony!?

Yes, I am. Almost ninety-five percent sure.

Alice, what is wrong?

Armada asks her, hearing the worry in the tone of her voice. Ignoring him, she pushes away from him and runs over to the computer, and types away at it. Armada runs over to her as statistics and other information show up.

Alice!?

These readings are off the charts! But why!? How come!?

Alice!

Alice looks at Armada and purses her lips together and narrows her eyes. Seeing that look he knew to shut up before she kicked his ass. Nodding, she looks back at the computer and hums out till she is finally done and yells out.

GET ME THAT EMERALD NOW!

Looking at the computer, Armada sees what was going on and narrows his eyes. Growling, he yells to his men with him.

YOU HEARD MY FIANCE! GET HER THAT DAMN FUCKING CHAOS EMERALD NOW! HURRY! ASSEMBLE A TEAM AND GET THAT DAMN EMERALD!

Right away his men rush out to start forming a team to retrieve the Chaos Emerald they found. On the screen was the Red Chaos Emerald, and it was showing that it was in the frozen north of Holoska. Armada and Alice look at one another, and giving her one last kiss, he hurries out himself as She and her team get back to work on the Gear.

Back with Shadow and the others…1300 hours…

Tabitha takes another sip of her soda and sets her cup down and looks at Shadow and the boys.

So you're serious about wanting me to join up to form your Extreme Gear Team?

Yes. I need two more members to join, not counting the fact of a backup.

And you say that you were given files on me as well as video, by the General of Huckshore Base?

Yes, that is right.

Tabitha looks at Shadow, then Skye and Jax, then Hunter then back at Shadow. Still trying to put everything into perspective. She was still having a hard time believing everything since the Government had been watching her. Though in truth part of her wasn't TOO surprised since she was very popular on ChaoTube. But even still why the Government of all people? Looking down at what was left of her lunch, she slightly tilts her head and thinks. She lifts her head and sighs.

I'm sorry. It's just that I'm still having a time trying to believe this. The fact the G.U.N and the Government have been watching me and possibly wishing to join them. I'm not a fan of theirs at all. Truth be told I hate them both me and Hunter do. Don't we baby?

Yeah, it's true.

Hunter states as he picks up his cup and sips from it. He sets it back down, grabs a few fries, and tosses them in his mouth.

They are corrupted and dark. And the proof is right before us. No offense or anything, Shadow. But were you not created to be their bio-weapon at the time?

I was yes, but I don't have much of anything else in life for me. My only family was killed that day on the ARK so working for them was my next best option. I don't care for them much either but it's work and pays extremely well. But I do believe you on the fact that they are corrupted and such. So no offense taken. But you should know that G.U.N has done some good as well. And always try to.

Yeah, I guess you're right.

Hunter sighs as he slumps in his chair and folds his arms, closes his eyes, and thinks. His left ear twitches as a breeze blows by. After a moment, he sits up, knocks on the table, and speaks. Shadow raises an eyebrow as he sips from his cup and looks at him.

Listen this is wonderful and all, but why Tabby of all people?

Because with her special Hybrid Gear I think we have a good chance of winning. Among other things. I've never seen anything like it before in my life, or racing time, an Extreme Gear that can change types in one go.

I'm glad you like The Speed Wing.

Hey, Tabitha?

Tabitha looks over at Skye and smiles at him.

Yes, Skye?

Is yours the only Hybrid Gear out there? Or are there others like it? I mean we all know there are only three types of Gears out there. Speed, Power, and Flying. Meaning that if there are other Hybrid Gears out there then that's quite a few combos. Speed and Flying. Flying and Power, and lastly Speed and Power. But ever since I saw your gear I've done some digging and noticed some new types out there. Healing and Support Gear, even some to help with those with Elemental Chaos Powers. So is this true?

Yes, it's true. There are other Hybrid Gears out there like mine. But they've only been out on the Gear Market for a few short years.

I see. What about yours though?

Mine is a specialized custom Gear Hunter gave me. He had it done by someone who is an Expert in the world of Extreme Gear. It was a one million ChaoTube follower gift.

Listen this is nice and all, and I don't mean to interrupt, but you hardly answered my question, Shadow. Why Tabby of all people? What's so special about her other than her Gear? Yeah I get it, her move sets and Gear are cool and all, but I'm sure you had others on this list or whatever, you could have picked from. So why my Tabby Kitten?

It's like I said. With her Gear and everything, I believe I have a chance at winning. Especially against someone, I know. I'm hoping to drop her down a peg or two and join the rest of her team.

Is that all? You just wish to use Tabby for your selfish gain?

Yes and no.

And what about G.U.N? Won't they want Tabby once this is all over with? I mean that is why you were sent to find her right?

Again, yes and no. Yes, we were to find you and ask you to join us. But not with G.U.N., G.U.N has a whole different process to recruit people for it. We need a new team because our old one was taken out by Deadly Blood Vain Scorpions. All ended up hurt but two, which Belladonna ended up sending back to basic training because they hid during the whole thing and were only in it for the glory.

So I don't get it? You say that this Belladonna is the real Team leader to the team, yet you're acting like you are the leader, or so it sounds like?

It's like this, Tabitha. If you didn't know, this year there needs to be a Team of fifteen members plus backups to every team. Meaning that every team joining up will have said numbers. But within each team, there are a total of fifteen smaller teams. Like you normally would see with any regular racing team. But with someone like Eris' team, there will be fifteen smaller teams into one big team. This year it's the World Grand Prix which hasn't been done in about ten years or so.

Skye tells her.

So let me get this straight here. This Belladonna, or Eris as you say she likes to be called, needs a team for her team, as in she needs fifteen teams in one big team to compete in this year's WGP? And right now she only has enough members to do even the preliminaries and possibly pass?

Yes, that is right.

Shadow tells her.

And you sure that G.U.N wants nothing to do with me? Or Hunter for that matter?

Positive, yes.

I still don't know? What do you think Hunter?

In truth baby, it's your call. You know I'll support you either way. And if G.U.N comes knocking on our door, then we'll turn them away and say no. I don't want to join up with G.U.N ever.

Same.

Tabitha thinks for a bit still unsure about all of this. Closing her eyes and letting out a sigh she answers Shadow.

This is all so sudden, and I know it would be a great opportunity and all. But what is in it for me? Not to SOUND ungrateful but with what happened today I don't know. I mean with having to deal with Howling Forest and what happened with Dustin's brother and that, maybe I should wait to join any team?

Listen, how about if I help you with that problem?

Huh? How?

If you join up with me, then your problem with Howling Forest and Dustin's brother becomes a team's problem.

But there is no way….

Tabitha starts as Skye speaks up as his tails start to wag.

Shadow, that is a BRILLIANT IDEA!

Huh? I don't get it.

If you join Shadow's team, then with him being the leader of said team, it becomes a team problem. Not just a single problem.

OK?

Tabitha looks at him confused, then at Hunter who looked just as confused. Skye could see this and went on.

It's like this. Something tells me after what you told us, you don't have a lot of money for a lawyer. Meaning that Shadow would have to deal with everything expense-wise. Meaning that is one less thing for you to worry about. It is a team leader's job to make sure everything runs smoothly for every team member and make sure they are happy and well cared for. For a team is like a side family. And even though Shadow won't admit it, he does care for his teammates and friends as if they were family to him.

But are you sure, Shadow? We don't wish to impose or anything.

You wouldn't be since I had planned on coming to find you and ask you to join up with me. And even then if you had joined me and I found out about it, later on, I would have helped you either way.

Tabitha and Hunter look at one another then back. They excuse themselves and go talk alone for a moment. After about ten minutes, they come back and she looks at him with a smile.

Alright, we talked it over and we'll join you.

We'll join you?

Shadow looks at her with a raised eyebrow.

I'm not much of an Extreme Gear rider myself, but where every Tabby goes. I go. And if you want my little Tigress then you have to take me.

A packaged deal huh?

Yes.

Well if you are not an EG Rider then what can you do? I need someone who will help the team from the sidelines and not get in the way of training and such.

I can do a lot of things. I can help train the team physically with running and executing move sets and come up with ideas and strategies and such.

Hunter may not be a wiz when it comes to racing since he only rides for fun unlike me and many others, but he knows how to train people, and help them come up with move sets. He's a black belt in karate, tae kwon do, and other martial arts. He even does Parkour as well.

Shame this isn't a Parkour tournament, or I would have it in the bag hands down.

He's right, he's the reigning champ in the Parkour world ranking at number one for the last six years.

Alright, I will say that is impressive. Tell you what, Hunter. If you can impress me with some of your moves and what you can bring to the team as our strategist and such, I'll think of letting you join as our Manager.

What? Seriously!?

Yes. But you best bring me your Ultimate A game, it takes a lot to impress me.

Alright, Yeah! I promise not to disappoint you, Shadow.

Good. Now that is taken care of, maybe you can help me with something else to start.

What is it, Shadow?

Tabitha asks him.

Do you know of, or heard of a Rider named Tabius Storm?

Angel Island… 0900 hours...outside of the Grand Archives…

Espio closes the door to the Taxi and gives the driver the money. He walks over to the back of the taxi and takes out the bags as Rouge stands at the steps and pulls at her gloves adjusting them. She was in her treasure hunter outfit having changed at the airport before coming here. Espio walks up to her and she glances at him for a moment then back. With a steely gaze, she leads the way. As they walk up the countless stairs, she turns on her earpiece she had and calls Acela.

Hey, Acela, can you hear me?

Are you sure it was a good idea to involve her in this? What if something goes wrong?

Everything will be fine, hon. Acela?

Yeah, I can hear you, Rouge. So far everything is good on my end.

Good. Let's keep it that way for now.

Are you sure it's a good idea to be setting these up?

Don't worry about it, they won't do any harm. They're just surveillance cameras.

You told me they were both?

They are both. They can blow up should someone find them and try taking them apart to figure out where they came from. It was Espio's idea. So long as you don't try messing with them, you're fine.

Alright. Well, I just set the last one up like you asked, now what?

Come meet us at the Grand Archives, I'll let the bouncers know to let you in.

Alright, be there soon.

As they reach the top, Rouge disconnects and nods at the enforce standing guard. They step in front of her and Espio as she places a hand on her hip.

Out of the way boys. I'm expected inside.

Sorry Ma'am but we were told not to let anyone one.

I was told to come here by the Brotherhood. Now move it.

Sorry Ma'am but we have our orders.

Letting out an annoyed sigh, Rouge folds her arms looking at them.

Listen hon, I get following orders and everything, but I was told to come here by Elder Thunderhawk and Elder Specter PERSONALLY. They need my help with looking into something.

Again Ma'am. We can not let you through without orders from the Constable.

Boy, you two sure are dumb aren't you? Didn't they tell you that I and my co-works were coming? If you don't believe me then go ask yourself.

Sir, what my girlfriend is saying happens to be true. I was there when we got a call at five-thirty this morning.

Both of the enforces look at one another and back as one shakes their head. Rouge growls out and walks up to me becoming even more annoyed.

NOW YOU LISTEN HERE JERK! I WAS TOLD…

Rouge?! Espio?!

Huh?

They both look up and see the doors opening as Remington walks out with Komi-Ko next to him.

Remington, Komi-Ko, thank the Chaos.

You can let her in you two. We've been expecting her.

The two guards nod as Remington and Komi-Ko show her and Espio in.

Thank you, Remmy. Also, keep a lookout for a Vixen named Acela, I have her on my payroll right now, and she should be here any time.

As they walked in and already she could see the place was alive with activity and what looked to be scientists trying to figure things out. Scoffing out and shaking her head she holds out her hand as Espio hands her her treasure hunter scoop. She replaces it with her Bluetooth, puts it on, and turns it on.

Alright, Remmy old boy what's going on? Fill me in once more.

Rouge asks him as she looks at the Statues.

In truth, I don't know much. All I know is that I got a call asking for guards and such and to make sure that no one gets in without the Brotherhood's approval.

I see. So a need-to-know basis then? Then what is Komi doing here? Shouldn't she be resting right now? She looks like she is about to pop at any moment.

Oh, don't worry about me, I'm fine for now. You are right about me needing to rest, but I'm just so antsy right now and couldn't sit still so Remmy said I could come along and try to help in any way. But I promise you he is making sure I do nothing but book and scroll work, he he.

Good.

Espio, Rouge!

Everyone looks to their left and they see Locke, Saber, Thunderhawk, and Specter coming their way. Rouge stands there with a hand on her hip, as they come over. Saber holds out his hand as Espio takes it and they shake.

I'm glad you both could come on such short notice.

Hey, I owe you for helping me out so it's the least I could do, Specter. So why not run everything by me once more?

Nodding, they explain things to her. By the time they were finished, Acela had shown up and was hurrying over to them.

Sorry, I'm late but there was a bit of traffic.

No worries, honey, in fact, you're on time, right. Here is how it is going to go. One, get these stupid white coats out of here. They'll just get in my way. Tell them to take everything of theirs and go. I need quiet as I work and all that taping, beeping, and more, will only distract me. I want no one other than the Brotherhood, Mace, Espio, and Acela here in the building, along with any personnel. And if that red mutt is on his way like you say he is then get him and his friends in here as well.

As you wish Rouge. It should take us about thirty minutes to get everything cleared out.

You have fifteen minutes to get everything cleared out so I can work, Specter. Now go!

Not wasting a moment, they set about to get the scientists and their equipment out of the way. With everyone's help, it didn't take long. Once done and things cleaned up. Rouge had Espio set her things up.

Right now, here's number two. Komi-Ko get your purple ass home right now where it is safe. There is no telling what will happen here and I will not be responsible for you, or your UN-laid egg getting hurt.

Rouge folds her arms looking sternly at her, but with a small smile. Komi-Ko smiles at Rouge and nods.

I suppose it is about time I head home for a little nap anyway.

I'll take you home, my love.

Sorry but I need you here Remington. Should something go wrong, then I need you and your men to be ready for anything.

Alright. Then I'll go hail a taxi for her at least.

Remington walks Komi out of the building and to go Hail a taxi home for her. By the time he comes back in he could see Espio already setting things up.

I thought she said that all computers and such would distract her.

Yes, they will. But this is specialized equipment I invented myself. It plays out to a frequency that will help us find what we are looking for by emitting a specialized frequency that only Rouge, and Knuckles when he is around, can hear. Sort of like echolocation in a way.

I see now. So with the other computers, they would be just nosy and loud, with all the beeping, and clacking of keys and such, and without all the extra people around, making it quieter allowing her to better pinpoint what it is she is looking for?

Yes, that's right, and with how I have designed this equipment it's whisper quiet allowing Rouge to concentrate. It is not often I go with her or help her out when she takes time to go out on a treasure hunting mission.

Espio, are we set up yet?

Yes, we are, Rouge. Acela do you have the locators set up around the Guardian Statues?

Give me a moment and I will. I just have one more to place….and DONE! Ready on my end, Espio!

Nodding Espio types away at the computer he has and Rouge walks over to Mace who had shown up not too long ago.

Alright, kid, what do we have?

Rouge holds out her hand for the scroll he translated hours ago. Reading it over she hums out, turns around and jumps into the air, and flies over to Aurora first.

Espio, send out the first sound wave now.

Roger!

Typing away at the computer Rouge taps at her treasure scoop and hums out. She flies around Aurora and the Super Emerald within her hands and narrows her eyes. Looking at the Scroll, she rolls it back up and stuffs it in her belt and flexes her nails, and lands on the side of the Super Emerald. Closing her eyes she listens to the sound waves coming back to her and gently taps away at the stone. She crawls along it till she finds what it was she was looking for. Opening her eyes she pushes off from the statue and hovers in the air and calls out.

EVERY STAND BACK!

Everyone backs off, and flying further back, she spins around and flies at her top speed and does a corkscrew spin, and digs right through the Super Emerald. Bits of stone and dust fall as she drills her way into it. After about fifteen minutes she jumps out of the hole and starts digging through the rest till she unearths something. Brushing it off, she comes down and walks over to a table, and sets it down. Everyone comes over and looks at one another and the item before them. Before them was a very old-looking box, and on the side of it was some kind of engraving.

Well, your hunch was right, Specter. But whatever this is I get the feeling there are two more of them like it. Espio get to work and send out the signal to the other two statues right away. Acela, how are things looking on your end?

So far so good.

Good. Then let's do this.

Espio gets to work sending out the signal to the other two statues and within less than an hour they had the other two boxes, much like the first one dug up and on the table, each looked like the other with the exception of the design on them that no one took notice of at first.

So what now?

Now we open these bad boys up and see what all the fuss is about.

Except I don't see a way to open them. They look like fully sealed boxes to me.

Mace states as he looks at the Elders.

Where there is a will there's a way.

Rough picks up one of the boxes and looks it over. The design on it was the ancient echidna tribe hieroglyphs from long ago. The same ones found in the temple of Mystic Ruins. On the side were Chaos' arms and on top was his face with two Echidna holding up their hands with the Master Emerald between them. On the front side was a Chaos Emerald. She taps her fingers on every side till at least she finds what it was she was looking for. Pressing a very well-hidden button, the Chaos Emerald slides down and reveals a keyhole.

Just as I thought. There is a way to open them, but without a key, it could be hopeless. Luckily I know how to pick a lock.

Smiling she tightens her left glove and takes hold of her lock pick kit and starts picking away at the lock. But after about ten minutes she gives up when her last pick breaks.

CHAOS! There is no way to open this thing without the key!

Then what are we going to do?

Rough huffs out and folds her arms annoyed.

I'm not sure. But without those keys, we can't do anything. Whenever these were made, WHOEVER made them, made sure they couldn't be opened by anything but the keys.

Hey Rouge?

Yeah, Acela?

Take a look at the three boxes before us.

Huh? What about them?

You mean you haven't noticed?

Noticed what?

Rouge and the others look at the boxes and see that the designs on them were all different. When Rouge sees this her eyes light up.

By the stars and moon!? Acela you're BRILLIANT! I didn't see that before now!

Each box looked to be the same size and just like the one before it, with no way of opening them. Rouge picked up another box and on it had what looked to be Babylon hieroglyphs.

Interesting?

Hey, I found the other keyhole on this last one, Rouge.

Looking over at Acela, she sets down the box she had and takes the last one from her, and looks it over.

If I didn't know any better, I say that these look like ancient Mobian hieroglyphs. But look at this mark here, with the crown.

She hands it off to Specter and he looks it over. He hums out and looks at her.

You don't think that maybe King Sonic could have anything to do with this, do you? Or maybe Queen Sally?

Well, the last time I checked, that Acorn was the representation of the Kingdom of Acorn, and those pictures look like something from her family's past. So I say yes.

Then it's a good thing we don't have far to go. Gather your things and clean up. I'll call and let their Majesties know you are coming.

Right, give us twenty minutes and we'll be ready.

After twenty minutes, everything was cleaned up and Specter had already called Sonic and Sally. It took them around an hour to reach the Castle Of Acorns and without wasting a moment they headed right inside. Upon entry, they were escorted right to Sally and Sonic. When they see them they excuse themselves from whoever it was they were talking about and greet them.

Rouge, Espio, it's so good to see you both again.

Likewise you Majesties.

Espio says with a nod.

Sally and Rouge embrace, as they kiss one another's cheek.

Rouge you look so good.

Thank you, Sal. You look amazing at your age.

Thank you. So who is your friend here?

Hi, I'm Acela Earhart Queen Sally!

Acela bows to her, as Sally smiles.

Well, it's nice to meet you. This is my Husband, Sonic.

Greetings your majesty.

It's nice to meet you. So Locke called us and told us what was going on. Do you have it with you?

We do, Sonic. But is there someplace less….OPEN….for us to all talk?

But of course. Garret!

Sonic calls out to one of his servants, a cat, who walks over to him and bows.

Yes, King Sonic?

I and Queen Sally have some special business to attend to with Rouge, and her friends. Please hold everything until further notice.

But of course, Your Majesty.

Thanking him they lead the way to someplace not so open. As they lead them they come across Manik and Sonia talking.

Oh come on Manik, there is no way you could pull off that move. It would be the DEATH of you. The only one who has EVER pulled off a Crystal Hurricane is the Crystal Queen HERSELF! If you try to pull that move you'll be a bloody MESS! Huh? Mom, dad, tell your idiot son I'm right!

Huh?

They stop a moment as Sonic sighs out with a smile and shakes his head. He folds his arms and looks at Manik.

Still thinking you can pull off the Crystal Hurricane, huh Manik?

You know I can, pops.

Manik, I swear you are as bad as your father back in the day. Always trying some ludicrous stunt just to prove you are the best at everything.

But mom, I know I could do it. Come on dad, you are on my side right?

Son, I have seen the Crystal Hurricane, it's a pretty intense move.

UGH! Not you too?! Hey, Hey Rouge don't you…

Rouge holds up her hand and stops him with a shake of her head.

Sorry, hon, but keep me out of this. Besides, I'm here on business and time is money.

Huh? Business? What sort of business?

Manik asks curiously about what was going on.

Yeah, what's going on mom, dad?

Sonia asks, wondering what was going on.

Well, I guess now is as good of a time as any to put a little lesson in for the both of you.

Sally states as she walks down the hallway. Everyone follows, asking Rouge to explain things. By the time she finishes they were already in Sonic's den, and all looking down at the boxes before them as Sally looks over the one with the Kingdom of Acorns royal coat of arms.

This is most definitely from around the time Mobian's firsts started. And you said this was in the Statues of the Three Guardians?

Yes, along with the other two.

This is far out. But what's in them?

That is what I am hoping to find out, kiddo. Thanks to Acela here, we figured out that each of the boxes are tied with the corresponding hieroglyphs on them.

Rouge tells Manik.

Well, I hate to say it but I don't know where to start. I don't remember anything about a key being handed down to me as a child.

What about Uncle Elias? Maybe he knows something, ma?

Hmm? Maybe? It wouldn't hurt to give him a call and see. Sonic?

Way ahead of you, love.

Sonic walks over to a computer on the wall and types away at it. Within moments the screen turns to static and Elias' face shows up, looking a bit tired as he yawns out. Sonic winces out, forgetting the time difference.

Hey, Elias sorry about the late wake-up call. I forgot about the time difference, bro.

Sonic chuckles out sheepishly.

Huh? Oh, Sonic, hello. And no worries, little Adrian woke me up. Poor thing hasn't slept in the last three days.

Colic?

Yeah, and a bad case of it. Anyway, since I'm up, what can I do for you?

Well, Sally and I were wondering if you had a key.

A...key?

Yes, see what's going on…

After a fast explanation, Elias hums out.

I see. Yes, I do recall seeing a key in Mother's old things. But there is one little problem.

What's that uncle, Elias?

Sonia Asks.

It's the only thing allowing me and Megan to sleep right now.

Oh boy, not good, and if I know my little cousin, once he sees something shine, he will NOT let it go.

Heh, reminds me of you at one point in time, sis.

Manik teases his sister, making her nudge him with a smile.

Shush you. What will we do? Without that key, we can't open the box up.

Hey, I know?

Everyone looks at Manik who smiles, as Sonic addresses him.

Manik? With an idea? Holy, Chaos the world is coming down around us. Everyone in the Bunker now!

Sonic tells everyone sarcastically, making them all laugh. Even Manik.

Come on dad, I can get a good idea now and again.

Oh, like the time you thought it would be a good idea to bring those wet mangy stray kittens inside the castle and every one of us and the staff got fleas? When was that? Like six months ago?

Sonia tells him with a fold of his arms. He smiles and blushes as he rubs the back of his head.

Hey, I didn't know they had fleas till it was too late sis. Besides, Lady Windimere turned out to be the best of the bunch and I found homes for them all, didn't I? I mean last I checked Windy was asleep on your bed just moments ago, with Cyrus and you refused to let her go when I found a home for her saying that she was now the Royal Pet. Both her and her brother Cyrus.

Sonia sighs annoyed, knowing he was right. Rolling her eyes at him, she shakes her head at him.

Touche, Manik.

So anyway, uncle E, do you think you can get a hold of the key even for a moment?

I think so, yeah?

Sis get Nikki out and ready.

OK, but why?

Easy. We'll have Nikki make a Holo copy of the key and we can have a new one made.

MANIK! THAT IS A BRILLIANT IDEA!

Sally and Sonia say together, making him smile.

Told you I had an idea.

Manik says with a big grin on his face, proud of himself.

But will it work? That's the question. We don't know if a copy of the key will work or not. For all, we know if we use a copy of the key it could do more harm than good.

What do you mean Rouge?

Sonic asks her.

Well, think about, true blue. Whoever hid these went through a lot of trouble in hiding them. Yet when I went to dig for them, no traps. So who is to say that the boxes are not bootstrapped themselves? If we end up using a fake key it could blow up in our face, QUITE literally mind you.

Eeesh...I didn't think about that. I'm sorry.

Manik rubs the back of his head.

Hey, don't be sorry, Manik. It's still a good idea, little brother.

She's right, Manik. You won't know till you try. Give me a moment and I'll see if I can get it from Adrian.

Alright.

Elias leaves and after about five minutes he comes back with the Key. He holds it up for everyone to see.

Here you go. But you best be quick about it before Adrian wakes up and sees that his shiny is missing.

Right, give me a moment.

Sonia takes out Nikki, her handheld computer. Nikki was a descendant of Nicol who was put to rest long ago, but thanks to Sonia she was able to recreate a new AI handheld computer based off Nicol original design but with a new modern twist. She attaches her to the computer and types away at her.

Nikki, can you scan the key for us please, and get us a Holo copy of it?

But of course, Princess Sonia. Give me a moment.

After a moment, Nikki manages to get a full three-D copy of the key.

I have done as you asked, Princess Sonia. I have also analyzed the materials of the key. It does indeed date back to around the time that Mobians started to become more advanced and started to evolve from their Mbini counterparts. I have analyzed the metal used to make the key and it shows that it is the same type of metal used in the famed Power rings back in the days when your father was younger.

But the Power rings haven't been seen since fathers time, so what now?

She's right, Eggman destroyed the very last Ring pool long ago. He did it to prevent me from using them to stop him from being the prick he is.

Sonic huffs out and folds his arms annoyed. Sally smiles at him and places her hands on his arms. He looks at her and gives a half smile back cheering up.

Right, no use dwelling on the past. So is there another way we can make a key, Nikki?

Yes, after analyzing the key I have determined there could be another source to make one.

Nikki shows two other rings, much like the Power Rings from long ago. The only difference between them and the ring shown before them was their colors.

My analysis has shown me that the Silver Moon Rings and the Rainbow Rings would be the only thing to make another key much like the one you need.

Huh? I've never heard of either ring. Have you mom, dad?

No, we haven't, honey.

I have.

Manik says as he stares at the two rings before them. He takes Nikki away from Sonia who protests but before she could say anything more, he was gone in a flash of blue, and out of the castle doors taking everyone by surprise. Sonic and Sally knew that for him to take Nikki without Sonia's OK, something big was up. For it wasn't like him at all to just run off like this otherwise.

What was that about?

Not sure, hon, but I get the feeling he knows something.

He took NIKKI! HE KNOWS BETTER THAN TO TAKE HER LIKE THAT!

Easy, honey, you know he wouldn't have taken her unless something was up.

Well, I'm going after him, and I'm going to kick his damn blue ASS!

Sonia gets ready to go after her brother when Elias speaks.

Think it's best we let Manik handle this on his own, Sonia. I get the feeling this is something he needs to do on his own. After all, he is just like your father. Always doing without thinking, and Chaos knows how it has always helped us when fighting Robotnik. He's quick-witted and clever like your mother and father.

I agree with Elias on this one, baby girl.

Sonic tells her with a fold of his arms as he goes on.

BUT DADDY!?

I saw how he looked at those Rings, Sonia. He knows something and if he's anything like me when I was his age, he's seen things that only he should know. Chaos, knows how many times that started something?

BUT HE TOOK NIKKI, DAD!

Sonia, sweetie, please calm down, you know your brother will take good care of her. For now, let's figure out the rest till he gets back.

Scoffing, and folding her arms in a huff she walks off a bit. Both Sonic and Sally sigh as they hear crying. Looking over they see Elias give a half smile and rub the back of his head.

I best get going before Megan wakes up along with Alexis.

Alright, Elias, give my love to them all, and I hope to see you this year for the annual ball.

Bye.

They end the call as Sonic sighs. He rubs his temple and looks out the window.

With Manik…

"Who would have thought we would end up in danger all over again?

Well if you ask me, hon, it's been too quiet around here for some time now. So it was bound to happen sooner or later?"

Sonic looks over at Rouge and smiles.

"Yeah, I suppose you're right. It was about time for things to liven up around Mobius. And here I thought the only thing I had to worry about was getting things ready for the upcoming World Grand Prix and the upcoming Gala slash birthday party.

Speaking of, I need to give Skye a call back so I can speak with Miss Monroe. She will be hosting an after-party for the preliminaries, as well as one during the middle of the Grand Prix.

Alright, then what do we do now, mother?

For now, we show Espio, Rouge, and Acela their rooms. They can stay here at the castle till your brother comes back.

Then can I beat the shit out of him for taking Nikki without my OK?

If it makes you happy, yes?"

Sally tells her with a sigh.

"Fine…"

Manik was already halfway out of the city by now and was coming up on the exit as he spoke with Nikki.

Nikki, how many would we need to make the key?

According to my calculations to make a key much like the one you need, you would need at least ten Silver Moon Rings or five Rainbow rings, and someone who can utilize their powers accordingly without causing a natural disaster. Also, you do know that Sonia will end up killing you when you get back right? For kidnapping me without her OK?

Heh, I'll deal with that later. Right now we don't have time to lose. If what Rouge told us is true then we need to hurry. I know where to look for the Silver Moon Rings but we need to get there before nightfall. As for the Rainbow Rings, we need to head to Rainbow Valley and speak with Salma. But those Silver Moon Rings only show up once every few months and tonight is the night they show up. If we don't get to Angel Zone we'll miss our chance.

You do know that we do not need both sets of rings right?

The thing is we do. I don't know, Nikki? Call it intuition or something? But I feel we may need both sets of rings.

The last time you got a feeling it ended up with your sister heartbroken, covered in mud, naked and humiliated in front of her friends and many others, and you with a black eye, beaten to a pulp, and a broken leg.

Hey, it was worth it in the end. Like, what was I supposed to do? Let her get hurt like that? He nearly raped her, Nikki! I know we're twins and all, and she's older than me, but still, she's my sister. I couldn't let her get hurt like that!

Even still. You know she can take care of herself. Your father has taught the both of you how to fight, even Knuckles has helped in training the two of you. Even mother as well.

Sighing he looks ahead and jumps up into the air and does a flip to avoid some people walking down the path. He lands on his feet with ease and runs off once again.

Even still, Nikki, she's my sister and it's my job to protect her. Besides, you know as well as I do that she isn't much of a fighter. So there is no way she would have been able to hold that pig off for long.

I guess you are right...I'm sorry, Manik.

Hey no worries, Lil sis. Why don't you rest up for now? We'll be near Never River soon.

Nikki goes into sleep mode as Manik puts her in his vest pocket. After about an hour he finally reached Never River and across the way, he could see Angel Zone. He skids to a stop and looks out over the waters. He narrows his eyes as he tries to think of a way to get over there. As he does, a figure in the bushes watches him with glee in their eyes. Their tail gently wags back and forth as they wiggle their butt in the air. They let out a small purring meow, as their fangs glistened in the sunlight.

"I got you now, Manik Acorn. Nya...No way you can detect me this time...purr….this time I'll get you my favorite little plaything…he he he…"

Manik was so focused on the task at hand that he didn't know he was being watched. Getting ready to run across the water, he backs up and gets ready to run off when at the last second the one from the bushes jumps out and yells alerting him. Looking behind him he yells out, surprised by the attack he tries to move out of the way but wasn't fast enough…

(Who is this mysterious creature that just pounced on Manik, taking him by surprise? Are they truly friends with the young adventurous Prince, or are they an enemy of theirs?

Will the Silver Moon Rings and the Rainbow Rings be what they need to create a new key for the box Rouge found? Or will it end badly?

Will Boba make it from the deadly fight with Risa's men or will he end up losing his life?

Find out all of this and so much more in the next chapter.

AN: Hey all, CJ here. So during the making of this new chapter, you'll see I came up with some new things. One is the Silver Moon Ring. Those are not my doing, I only found out about them during writing this that they were a new ring from Sonic Forces, and as for the "Rainbow Rings" they are the very same Power rings that Zazz ends up collecting to get back at Sonic and friends. I changed their name to not confuse them with the original Power Rings that are gold, which in my story Eggman ended up destroying the last of the ring pools long ago. Though I think he does in the comics as well, I don't remember.

Anyway! The Rainbow Rings can only be found in Rainbow Valley, where the Shinobu Clan or Chameleons live. As for The Silver Moon Rings, they only show up every few months and only at night. More will be revealed about them in later chapters.

I think that is it and hope you like this chapter. Keep watch for the possible last part and find out what happens.

I'm also so sorry for this being long, I hope you still like it ^^. Don't forget to follow, save, like and leave a comment to let me know how things are going or if you see anything that is off.

Till then, this is CJ saying thank you for sticking with me this long and I hope you keep sticking around. Till the next chapter, BYE!)