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

by Carlata Jones

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

4. New Life, New Team, New Living hell p3

(AN: The Idea for Knuckles' look came from a concept idea by Nowykowski on DeviantART. He gave me the OK to use his idea since I loved it so much. there is also a little bit of my ideals as well for him.)

Chapter 2

A New Life. A New Team. A New Living Hell. THE FINAL ACT. ACT 3…

The next morning…0800 hours…

It had been a long night for everyone. Yet not one knew of the danger coming for them. Well, everyone but Drake, and he was being held captive down below the ship without his brother or the others knowing about it, and they wouldn't know till it was too late. Risa was barking orders at her men as she watched her men work. She watched them closely. Mali-Fa was right next to her, acting like nothing was going on, giving her the best poker face ever. Yet she was still wary around Risa, and dare she admit it, even SCARED of being so close to her. Fearing her wrath should she take it out on her again like she did the night before.

Jasper kept glancing over his shoulder now and again watching his back as he moved crates around and helped clean up from the fight the night before. All the time trying to find his brother which no one said had seen him. He guessed that he went inland to the town close by for a little bit of R&R, which he didn't blame him, but he felt something was off but didn't know what it was. Quick Shot and Bella were at the house still. Bella was still resting, why Quick shot was with Titania helping her brush up on her gunning skills in the nearby jungle….

Are ye sure you needed my help brushing up on your gun-slinging skills, Shelia? I mean you look like you are still at the top of your class.

Titania scoffs out as she blows smoke off the barrels of her gun rolling her eyes.

Looks can be deceiving, Mr. Quick Shot. Trust me, if I was still at the top of my class, I could have blasted right through the giant boulder in one go, and left a pile of dust in my wake. Not leave a dent in it. I've barely even left a crack in it.

She sighs and holsters her guns and walks over to the boulder and places a hand on it. Letting out another sigh, she looks away, closing her eyes and shaking her head softly.

At this rate, I may not be able to help out. I'm more than just rusty, Mr. Quick Shot, and I don't know what to do?

What do you mean you're more than rusty?

Sighing, Titania removes her gloves and holds up her arms.

Do you see anything wrong with my right arm compared to my left, Mr. Quick Shot?

Not really, no?

Take a closer look.

Narrowing his eyes he walks over to her and looks at both of her arms and he could see her right one was shaking slightly. His eyes widen in shock and he looks at her. All she does is hum out and nod.

I was around your age when I mastered this move. Oberon's Wrath is a powerful move. But if not careful it will send the user flying back and it will not be pretty. When I used it last time, I was in real bad shape from a fight, and knowing I had exhausted all my resources I knew I had to do it. I knew I had to use Oberon's Wrath. I didn't prepare myself for the backlash and I was sent flying back and broke nearly every bone in my body as I hit trees, rocks, and more. I was down for at least three weeks if not a whole month or so. When I came to, I was in extreme pain. The doctors told me that the backlash destroyed every nerve in my right arm up to my elbow. I tried to use Oberon's Wrath several times, but every time I did, I would scream out in pain, leaving me vulnerable to my enemies. I soon had to put my most powerful move to rest. I kept on being a mercenary for three more years, and I only used Oberon's Wrath when I truly needed to. But when the pain became too much, I came back home, took up my life as Lady Titania McDowell, and started to take over my family's lineage. And truth be told, if I tried to pull it off now, there is a good chance that I may not survive it, and I would love to one day see my grandkids.

Then what should we do? You said you wanted me to help you train once again.

Yes, and we have been training all night. And yet, till the first light hit, I managed to hit three monkeys, two jaguars, and scare a bunch of macaws into the night. I should have been able to take down this boulder with ease. And yet it still stands.

So what do you suggest?

If I can't pull my best move off, then you need to do it for me.

WHAT!? ARE YOU INSANE!?

No more insane than me marrying a madman and having a family with him.

She states as she puts her gloves back on and folds her arms with a smug look on her face.

Don't get me wrong or anything, but why me? If I end up losing my arms because of that move and I'm not able to use my guns again, I'll go insane!

The thing is I have fate in you, Mr. Quick Shot. We will need to adjust it so that in the end, it becomes your move but I truly have faith in you. You're Kayla's son after all. And if the son of the Twin Dragon Tamer can't pull off this move in time, then we're done for.

But do you truly think I have it in me? I mean you just master it before you lost the feeling in your arm.

Titania walks over to him and gently places a hand on his shoulder. She looks at him and gives him a small smile.

You're the only one who I trust enough to do this, Quick Shot. You're the only one who can keep me and my family safe. I had hoped to never use my guns again and leave everything in the past and just move on with my life, but it looks like it's not going to happen. Besides? Who better than the Eldest son to, not only my oldest and dearest friend but the famed Twin Dragon Tamer herself.

Are you sure?

Mr. Quick Shot tell me something?

Yes?

You're about twenty-five right now, am I right?

Yes, I am, why do you ask?

Do you have a signature move to truly call your own yet?

No, not yet. I've yet to even bother trying to be honest.

Then maybe it's time you do. If we can pull this off, and change it, it could work. I was young and eager to learn this move myself. But because of being too young and inexperienced, it cost me what I loved most at the time.

B-But do you truly think I have what it takes to pull this move off? I… I mean this is YOUR signature move! No one could pull it off but you, and you alone!

That may be, but now is the time to pass it along. I know you can do this. I know you can master this move in a short amount of time. Besides, just because I can't use my hand like I used to, doesn't mean I CAN'T SMACK THE SHIT OUT OF MY SON IF HE CAME HERE TO TELL ME ANNABEL-LEE GOT AWAY FROM HIM YET AGAIN!

Huh?

Quick Shot tilts his head and looks behind Titania and sees Duke walking out chuckling nervously as he rubs the back of his head.

Well...you see…

OH for the LOVE of CHAOS, Duke! I swear the child is a crafty one she is. Did you check all her usual hiding spots?

Yeah. And even some new ones I could think of.

Go find your brother, and father let them know what is going on, I can't leave right now. I need to train Mr. Quick Shot.

Is it because of that saber fang and who she is?

Let me guess, you eased dropped last night why I and your father were talking?

Y-Yes, I did. I'm sorry mother. But I was coming to tell you something last night but when I heard what was going on I got scared.

What do you mean, son?

I thought it was nothing at first, and I was only imagining things at the time due to how tired I was and how I was half asleep, but I swore I heard something outside my window. When I looked up I saw something outside my window. When I got up to look it was gone. I'm not sure what it was, but I came to see you and father about it, but when I heard you and father talking, I thought to keep it to myself. Because it sounded like you had enough to deal with already and I didn't want to bother you over nothing.

Tell me, Duke, what did this thing sound like?

Quick Shot asks him worried.

Well...Kind of like soft buzzing. Like the drone, Prince got me last year for my birthday.

Both Titania's and Quick Shot's eyes widen as they look at one another and Quick Shot asks her what they both were thinking.

You don't think that…?

I do, yes. Meaning she knows everything.

This isn't good.

No, it is not Mr. Quick Shot. Not good at all. Have you told your father yet, Duke?

No, not yet. He is busy with Prince going over some files.

Growling out and thinking fast, Titania looks at her son.

Quickly! Run to your father and tell him what is going on now! Then go find your sisters and head for the hideout and STAY THERE TILL I SAY TO COME OUT!

Yes, mother! Right away!

Duke turns around and runs off to go warn his father and brother. Titania looks at Quick shot and nods at him.

We need to hurry. It sounds like we don't have much time left. If we can even pull this move off, even just slightly enough to call it your own, then we may have a chance. Otherwise, we're dead.

Then what are we standing around for? Let's get this show on the road!

Nodding, Titania sets to work on teaching him her signature move in a short amount of time.

Meanwhile… Back on the other side of Mobius… 19:06 hours…

Shadow and Eris were now hitting the city limits and night was slowly setting in, Eris had dozed off some time ago on their way back. Shadow glances at her as he makes the turn off into the city. He smiles at her as he stops at a light. Looking ahead, he closes his eyes and thinks back to that day in the meadows. About the shadowy figure in the dust cloud, and how when the Heli-Jet flew overhead and blew the dust away, it was just Eris standing there. Who was this creature, and why did her voice sound so familiar to him? And what did it mean that the Black Arms would rise again? He was the only one left of his kind. Having killed them all off years ago, or so he thought. So why now? Who is this so-called creature saying she would rise as it's the new queen? Was it possible that he didn't kill ALL of the Black Arms and there were more out there somewhere and were on their way here?

Shaking his head, he gently presses down on the gas and drives on. He speeds down the road and once again he glances over at Eris thinking. Was this creature he and Lance saw some sort of messenger? A warning that more were on their way here right now as he thinks? If so, why now of all times? Shadow closes his eyes, shaking his head trying to figure this out, but he was so lost in thought that he didn't see the Extreme Gear riders coming from his left in time till Eris woke up and yelled out.

SHADOW LOOK OUT!

WOOHOO!

LOOK OUT TINNIE!

NO WAY THIS IS FUN! WATCH THIS MICHA!

Shadow slams on his brakes and turns the wheel skidding to a halt at the same time a purple woodpecker comes flying by and hitting the back of her gear, she jumps up into the air as Shadow comes to a full stop and she twists around and drops something into his car. When Eris and Shadow catch their breath, the other Gear rider screams out making them both look and they see a bomb in the car. But before they could react fast enough it goes off and a SPLORCH, sounds off and pink goo covers the whole of the car and goes flying all over making even more cars screech to a halt nearly causing a crash but thankfully everyone stopped in time, some get out of their cars to see what was going on and what had happened, only to be hit by some of the goo. The other rider flinches out as she stops and faces palms groaning out as her friend lands on the other side of the car and comes to a stop and looks behind her holding her midsection laughing and pointing at them. Shadow and Eris blink a couple of times till Shadow growls out and yells out.

WHAT THE FUCKING HELL IS GOING ON HERE!?

ONE, YOU WERE NOT PAYING ATTENTION TO THE ROAD, BIO-FREAK! AND TWO...EWWW…. WHAT THE HELL IS THIS STUFF! IT'S ALL STICKY!

Ah jeez…. Not again….TINNIE! THE BOSS IS GONNA HAVE YOUR FEATHER HIDE THIS TIME AROUND!

But...ha ha ha….the...oh oh oh….he he he he he he….the look on their faces...ha ha ha….oh CHAOS….that was PRICELESS! OH-OH-OH HAHAHAHAHAHA!

The one name Tinnie falls over laughing her feathery ass off as Shadow growls as he tries to wipe the goo off him. Eris groans out trying to get it off her with little success, Shadow was having just as much success trying to get it off him as he yells out.

WHAT THE HELL IS THIS STUFF!

SHIT! HOLD ON I'M COMING!

The girl jumps off her gear and grabs it she rushes over to him, she sets her gear to the side and starts trying to help get the good off him. After a few moments of helping him, she gets it off his face as he growls out and glares at her making her nervous. She backs up a bit and points to her right…

Heh...Ah...I'll go help your girlfriend...and be right back….

She rushes over to Eris to help her, but as she starts helping her she ends up getting smacked in the face and sent flying after she finally got the goo off. Growling out she looks around and glares at the girl. The girl moans out shaking her head and looks up as Eris gets up and out of the car and slams the car door only to get hit in the back of the head with more of the pink goo, making the woodpecker laugh even more. Eris screams out as she powers up making the pink goo fly everywhere, and hitting anything close by. Parked cars, lamp posts, storefront windows, and even some people who were passing by who had stopped when Shadow had slammed on his brakes when the girls came out of nowhere. Some of the goo ends up hitting the girl who was trying to help them, and the woodpecker right in the face. The one girl flinches, and the woodpecker blinks a few times then bust up laughing once again, making the other girls facepalm and groan, why more was sent flying just as Shadow turns around having heard Eris scream out only to be hit in the face with more of the goo. He growls and rips off what he could of the goo and rushes over to Eris and stands next to her not looking too happy right now. Folding his arms he looks down at the two narrowing his eyes as Eris calms down enough and powers down, and stands next to him growling out. She was about to say something when all of a sudden a giant wad of the goo ends up falling from above, and the one girl yells out to her pointing up.

W-WATCH OUT!

Huh?

Both Eris and Shadow look up and then back down at one another unamused at the moment as the goo drops down and hits the both of them, covering them from head to toe once again. Eris reaches out and wipes her face off, as does Shadow, and they both growl out. The girl sighs out as her ears fold back and chuckles nervously and gulps.

Shadow…

Yeah, I know. I know.

Shadow sighs as he rubs his temples annoyed. As he pulls his hand away, a long thick string of his goes with him. Becoming annoyed, he flicks it off as he tries to get it off him. Once again sighing, he folds his arms and looks down at the girls.

L-L-Listen...I-I-I'm sorry about my friend...but she…

In the crowd of cars…

One of the cars that had stopped had been close by when the accident happened, and the three people in the car got out and looked out to see what was going on, only to be hit by some of the flying goo. A big glob of it landed on the chest of one of them, another hit his friend on his forehead, and the other got some right in the face. Growling out, the one who had gotten a big glob of it on his chest looks down and takes hold of it, and tilts his head.

Oh jeez! What IS this stuff, Birch?!

Are you alright, Michael?

Yeah, Uncle Keven. What about you?

Mr. Harper groans out as he wipes the stuff off his face and looks at it.

Birch, what is this stuff?

Mr. Harper asks him as they look at him with some of it in his hand. Growling, Birch holds some of the goo up and sniffs it as his eyes narrow. Humming out he tastes it making Mr. Harper and Michael look at him awkwardly. They watch him as he sticks more of it in his mouth and chews it.

Ah...Birch? Should you be EATING that stuff?

Michael asks him. All Birch does is say one word, making him and his uncle confused.

Strawberry…

They look at one another tilting their heads as Michael asks.

S-Strawberry?

Yeah, and there is only one WOODPECKER I know who uses this stuff in her bombs.

BOMBS!?

Both Mr. Harper and Michael say together as Birch roars out...

TIIIINNNNIIIIEEEE!

Birch roars out pissed as he slams the door and starts heading up front. Michael looks at his uncle and takes the goo off himself and puts it in his mouth. His uncle looks at him HORRIFIED when Michael smiles and blows a bubble.

It's bubblegum! It's strawberry bubblegum! Wow, it tastes AMAZING!

MICHAEL!

What?! It does?

His uncle gives a half smile at him shaking his head and rolling his eyes at him.

I swear Michael, you're going to be the death of me. Now come on, let's go see if we can help Birch.

Yeah.

They rush off to go help Birch but when they get there, they see Shadow and Eris, along with a weasel wolf, and a woodpecker, which Michael guessed was Tinnie. As they hurry over, sirens sound off as people make way for SSCPD. The cars stop as men and women get out, and one yells out.

ALRIGHT, EVERYONE! THAT IS ENOUGH! BACK OFF AND LET US DO OUR JOB PLEASE! COME ON NOW, BACK OFF TO THE SIDEWALKS, AND LET US WORK! YOU THREE START SETTING UP A PERIMETER AND KEEP EVERYONE BACK! YOU TWO CALL IN THE FIRE DEPARTMENT AND HAVE THEM ON STAND BY, SAME WITH AN EMT! I'LL DEAL WITH THE MAIN OF THINGS!

ROGER!

Sighing out, the one who was yelling orders, walks over, pulling up his pants and when he sees the people, he sighs out and smiles a bit, recognizing some of them. As he nears he clears his throat as Shadow looks over and lets his arms fall to his side and goes to greet the officer holding out his hand for him to take it. Eris sees this and follows behind him. But the officer holds up his hands chuckling out. When Shadow wondered why he wouldn't take it, the officer pointed to his hand, and Shadow sighs, nodding in understanding.

Officer, Lance hello.

Hello, Shadow. Eris. So is everything alright here?

Lance looks over as Birch yells out catching only some of it.

YOU NEARLY GOT MY GIRLFRIEND KILLED!

Oh come on Birch, it wasn't that bad. No one got hurt, just….overly sticky is all. And she did use her bubblegum bomb this time, unlike last time.

The one girl tells him with a slightly sheepish smile. Birch growls out as he looks at her and yells out.

YOU'RE NOT HELPING MICHA!

Sorry! Look, everyone is fine. No one is hurt, or anything. That hedgehog had some good reflexes and managed to stop in time, giving the other cars time to react. Not only that I tried to tell Tinnie to look out, but you KNOW how she is!

Birch lets out a heavy sigh and runs a hand down his face groaning out.

I swear, if you were not my best friend, Tinnie, I'd kick you from the team. But DON'T think this is going unpunished.

Oh PLEASE, Birchie-poo, your punishments are not THAT bad.

Birch growls out, narrowing his eyes at her.

DON'T push it Tinnie.

He tells her through clenched teeth. Sighing, and rolling his eyes he looks at Micha and folds his arms and taps a foot, and raises an eyebrow.

IT WAS HER IDEA NOT MINE! YOU KNOW THAT I WOULDN'T DARE GO AGAINST YOU! NOT AFTER WHAT HAPPENED LAST TIME!

Birch only rolls his eyes when someone clears his throat behind him.

Birch?

They look over and see a much calmer, but still annoyed-looking Eris. She had gotten more of the goo off her as she walked over to them.

Babe? Hey, are you alright?

Y-yeah I am. But I'm still not happy about whatever this stuff is on me.

It's bubblegum of my own style.

Eris looks behind Birch and at the woodpecker with a raised eyebrow.

Uh...huh? Care to elaborate, baby?

She asks Birch with a fold of her arms. Sighing, Birch turns around and holds a hand out to the girls.

Eris, this is my team. Micha is the weasel wolf, and Tinnie is…

The wack job that nearly got us killed back there with her stunt?

Yeeeah… Heh…

Birch chuckles sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. Sighing and rubbing her temples she drops her arms to her side placing one on her hip.

I'm going out on a limb here and say YOU'RE the leader of your team, right?

Yes, I am.

And just WHAT is the name of your team?

She asks Birch, folding her arms with a raised eyebrow.

Team Mystic Raiders.

Uh-huh? Well, I hope you plan on punishing Tinnie for this.

I do yes, but later. Right now I wanna make sure you're alright.

I'm fine. Shaken but fine. She's lucky she's not on my team you know?

What do you mean babe?

What she means is if...Tinnie, was it?

Everyone looks over and sees Shadow and Lance walking over to them.

Yeah, that's her name.

Birch tells him.

Right, as I was saying, if Tinnie was on her team, she would have kicked her right off it without a second glance. If there is one thing Belladonna is, she is strict. She takes no shit from anyone, and when they step out of line, she puts them right back without batting an eyelash. I'm the same way when given the power. But Belladonna here is a few levels above me in rank.

In rank, Shadow?

Michael asks him, as he wanders over and asks him.

Yes, rank. We're both part of G.U.N. She is Staff Sergeant Belladonna "Eris" Monroe. And I am Special Senior Agent, Shadow The Hedgehog. I rank under two levels, but I'm also on a different level than most since I tend to work in a different department than her.

I see. That is SO cool!

Heh. Thanks, kid. Anyway, You do remember what we told you earlier today, right? About why we were here and everything?

Yeah.

Well when our base was attacked, two of Team G.U.N hid out when the DBVS attacked us. When Belladonna found out she flipped shit big time. I was there for it when she sent them packing back to Skyridge Flats Main HQ Base and demoted them back to Cadets. Telling them they were not to even bother coming back until they learned what it was that G.U.N Stood for and what it was they did.

Ouch.

Yeah. And it's ERIS BIO-FREAK!

Easy, baby.

Shadow only huffs out and looks at Tinnie narrowing his eyes at her.

So, bomb expert?

Yeah!

There is only ONE Woodpecker I know of and have run into many times who could use bombs. He wouldn't happen to be your FATHER would he?

Do you mean, Daddy Bean? Yeah, I'm Daddy Beans spawn alright! And he taught me everything I know! If you need something blown up, I'm your gal! I specialize in everything you can think of. Demolition, raids, blowing up things big or small. Braking in a vault or safe, no matter how big or small. HA! I even make bombs for fun, and just to be annoying. You name it, I can do it!

Tinnie points a thumb at herself acting all proud. Shadow rolls his eyes and sighs as he looks at Birch and Micha.

Like with that goo bomb you set off in my car as we drove by?

YEAH! That's my newest one! I call it the Bubble-Pop Bomb. When it blows it leaves a HUGE sticky pink bubblegum goo all over! HA HA HA HA HAAAAAAAA!

Uh-huh? Alright, now that I know for sure who the crazy duck is….

WHAT WAS THAT!?

Tinnie yells out holding a fist to her chest and growls out at Shadow.

Why I outta… oh you're going to regret calling me a DUCK YOU NO GOOD SPIKY PINCUSHION OF RAT! GERONIMO!

Shadow folds his arms and raises an eyebrow as Tinnie jumps at him. But at the last second, he teleports out of the way and next to Lance as she lands in the back seat of his car and in a pile of the pink goo. Sighing out, and shaking his head, he looks over at Micha and walks over to her with his arms at his side. His presents alone was enough to make her shake a little, which was so unlike her. But as he nears her he stops and looks down at her, getting a good look at her.

I get the feeling that YOU weasel wolf, look like someone I know as well.

I...I...I do?

You're Fang the Sniper's daughter, aren't you?

Birch and Tinnie's eyes widen when they hear Fang's name. But Birch's eyes narrow just as fast as he glares at Shadow and growls at him. But on hearing her father's name, Micha shy's away and holds herself, folding her ears back, closing her eyes shut, and slowly scoots away from him till her back hits a parked car. Shadow sees this and follows her as he raises an eyebrow at her.

I...I...I…

Well? Am I right or not?

I...I...I don't….what...what...I...what I mean is...I…

HEDGEHOG ENOUGH!

Shadow glances over his shoulder at Birch who looks pissed. Shadow only scoffs out as he looks back down at Micha and bends down and takes hold of her chin and forces her to look at him.

I'm not going to ask again, WEASEL WOLF…. IS Fang your…

Before he could even finish what he was going to ask her Tinnie jumps on Shadow and bites down on his ear making him yell out. Seeing her chance Micha scrabbles to get up and runs off and grabs her gear and jumps on it, and using her boost she flies off into the crowd making people yell out at her. Growling, Shadow takes hold of Tinnie and throws her off him and right into Birch who catches her. Looking at the both of them he narrows his eyes. His hand starts to spark with green chaos energy ready to take Tinnie out, but Birch was ready for him. He shoves Tinnie behind him. Eris steps between them and holds her hands up.

ENOUGH! BOTH OF YOU! I HAVE HAD IT WITH YOU TWO BUTTING HEADS! AND ALL BECAUSE OF THAT STUPID EMERALD!

Trust me, babe, it's no longer about the Emerald. You don't FUCK with my friends and get to LIVE TO SEE ANOTHER DAY!

Birch growls as he cracks his knuckles into a fist as a cold aura surrounds his hand as Shadow nears him.

Bring it bear! I'LL TAKE YOU AND THAT DUCK BOTH DOWN HERE AND NOW! AND I'LL START BY PUNISHING HER SINCE YOU WON'T!

I SAID I WOULD BUT AT A LATER TIME!

ENOUGH SHADOW! THAT IS AN ORDER!

Shadow growls out as he ignores Eris. Having just about enough of it, she shoves Shadow hard in the chest and smacks him. Shadow stops and holds his hand up to his face and looks at Eris. His eyes narrow as the energy dies down as she lets out a sigh and scoffs, turning back to Birch.

Listen, what he did was out of line, I'm not going to lie about that. If you ask me he could have been a bit nicer about it. But this FIGHTING needs to stop. And I mean right NOW! Up till what Tinnie did, I was having a somewhat nice day out. But now it's ruined. And it wouldn't surprise me if HALF of the stuff I just got is ruined as well. Now I'm putting my foot down right here and now. Birch as much as I hate to agree with Shadow, you ARE the leader of Team Mystic Raiders, thus you need to take responsibility for your team members.

Birch only scoffs out and folds his arms.

As for you SHADOW… When we get home, you're giving me that Chaos Emerald so I can give it to Birch. I was the one that found it during our fight. It belongs to me. And I gave it to him for the return of my Locket I lost during the fight. Even if it did get lost somehow shortly after, it belongs to him. And IF you don't give it back, I'll have to pull rank on you and take it from you.

Shadow scoffs, rolling his eyes as he folds his arms.

Forget it. Pull every rank you want on me, Belladonna, but he is not getting it. He doesn't know what he is dealing with. You know as well as I do, that if that emerald falls into the wrong hands it will be bad.

I trust Birch to keep it safe.

Yeah...Of course, you do...with him being your new..."out-of-the-blue-FUCK TOY"!

Shadow glares at her. Eris scoffs, rolling her eyes.

Jealous much?

Eris asks him with a raised eyebrow.

As if, Twitter butt. But whatever. Don't say I didn't warn you, Belladonna. Because I did. But he is only going to get it back once he has my car cleaned. Otherwise no deal.

I'll see to it that he gets it clean. As for you Birch, you need to deal with your friend, and you best discipline her. She could have hurt someone by pulling that stunt. Had I been on duty I would have arrested the three of you on the spot, and not bat an eyelash. It wouldn't have mattered if we were going out or not. I put the people before personal things. But for now, I leave it in Officer...

At that moment Mr. Harper's phone goes off and he answers it.

Hello? Oh yes, hello, Mr. Prowers.

Huh? Skye?

Eris and Shadow look at one another as Mr. Harper speaks with him.

Yeah, we were on our way when a little accident happened...no no, everything is fine. We're fine. We ran into your friends on the way here when one of Birch's teammates pulled a stunt and caused a bit of a ruckus…No, we're all fine... Yeah, once we can get things cleared up here, we'll head that way... Alright... Sure... Thank you for getting a hold of me, Mr. Prowers.

With that, he lets out a sigh and hangs up, and looks at everyone.

Right, that was Mr. Prowers. He was calling to see where we were. We need to get going and get those owls.

If it's getting dark wouldn't it be a good idea to let them fly off into the night to hunt?

Yes, but the thing is, they're a mating pair. Meaning that they could have a nest. Thus meaning…

Chicks. And if there are chicks then they will be protecting them beak and talon and attack anything, and one who goes near them.

Right, Michael. So if we could finish up here and get going?

What about us? I for one don't wish to head home in pink goo. Not to say, All of my stuff is in the back covered in it.

She's right.

Sighing out and rolling his eyes, Birch looks at Tinnie with a fold of his arms.

Tinnie…

Sorry, no can do boss.

Tinnie tells him with an arm behind her head as she rubs a finger under her beak.

And why not?

I used the last one earlier today when playing with the kiddies at the park.

Lovely…

Birch states, rolling his eyes.

What are you going on about, bear?

Shadow asks him, annoyed.

She told you what she does right?

Birch looks at him with a fold of his arms and a raised eyebrow.

Yeah?

Tinnie is a mastermind when it comes to blowing things up. But she is NOTORIOUS when it comes to her…" SAFER" Bombs. Which I've come to call her Joke bombs. But sadly since she makes them all the same except for one little detail which I have yet to figure out what it is. Anyway. When she uses her goo bombs, she tends to have a way of cleaning that said goo off.

But from what she just said, we're going to have to deal with it till we get home.

Yep! Anyway, I'm out. Imma go find Michies and check on her.

NOW HOLD ON A…

Before Eris could stop her and ask her how to get the stuff off of her, she runs over and grabs her gear and jumps on it, and flies off. Sighing out Birch shakes his head as he goes over to Eris.

OH FOR THE LOVE OF CHAOS!

Well, what now?

We head home.

Shadow tells her.

But how am I to get this stuff OFF of me?

I'm sure Skye can figure something out when we get home. Now come on.

With nothing more to do, they all get in their cars and head home. It takes them about thirty minutes. Both Shadow and Eris were not in a good mood after what happened, and on the way back all they did was fight as she gets on him for not paying mind to the road before and nearly getting them killed, and he goes on telling her that not even she was going to get the Chaos Emerald even if she did find it. It was like this the whole time till they finally made it home. Once home, Skye comes out and greets them, but upon seeing Shadow and Eris he stops.

What happened to YOU two?

Don't ask!

Both Shadow and Eris say at once. Both were pissed off.

Skye Show Mr. Harper where the damn birds are. I'm going to try and figure out how to get gum out of everything.

What about your stuff, Belladonna?

I'll send Jax out to get it. Right now I want a hot shower!

Just don't use the shower on the second floor. That's where one of the birds is.

Right… I'll use the downstairs bathroom then...the one close to the kitchen…

Ah...heh… that one isn't working right… Jax kind of broke the sink in that one.

Eris slowly turns and looks at Skye in disbelief.

How… the HELL… did THAT happen?

Eris looks at him confused?

It happened when we were chasing the bird down. It attacked him and he tripped and ended up breaking the sink off the wall.

So you basically went and broke my house?

Y-yeah...sort of...heh...

SKYE!

SORRY!

Oh for the love of….No what? Whatever. There are plenty of full bathrooms in the house. I'll use one of them.

Aaah…

Skye…

They have yet to be cleaned. The cleaning ladies came, but when they found the bird they left freaking out. So none of the bathrooms are clean. Well except maybe the one in the room on the third floor that Shadow cleaned. You're father's old room.

At hearing this her eyes widen as she looks at the house. Skye looks at her and notices how she froze up.

Eris?

Skye calls to her, but she only glances at him and scoffs out, and heads inside. She heads right for the kitchen and grabs a few things then goes upstairs. Once there she stops and looks down the dark hallway and to where her father's room was.

"I know you probably didn't want me in there. But I took it upon myself to clean what I assumed to be your father's bedroom… I found some boxes I thought you would like to look at and once done I locked it up so no one could enter. When you're ready, I can use Chaos Control and take you in…"

Sighing, she slowly walks down the hallway and to her father's room. Remembering the many times she would run down here when a storm would come. It felt so much longer to her back then as a kit. But now, as she slowly walked down the hallway, it felt like it was three galaxies away. Each step she took her closer and closer to her father's old room. A room that should be hers now. But as she neared it she could feel the memories coming back. Of how she and her father would cuddle up together at night when she was a little girl. How she would help brush his fur and whiskers out, and add little bow clips to his whiskers just so he would be pretty for work. How she would come in every weekend morning and jump on his bed to wake him up. How she would come and show him her drawings the moment he came home. The times he would read her stories before bed, or how they would watch a movie together. How he would let her sleep with him when she had nightmares. So much from when she was a kit. She finally reaches the door and stands before it. She reaches out a hand to it and places her palm on it. Sighing, she closes her eyes and rests her forehead on it as tears sill over.

In Eris' mind…

"Eris? Is everything alright?

Yeah, just fine Trinity."

She tells her in a tart sarcastic voice and goes on in the same tone.

"Why wouldn't everything be fine? I mean it's not like I lost my father or anything? Or that hedgehog is downstairs right now. Or the fact...that…"

Eris lets out a sigh as she gently bangs her head on the door. She stops banging her head and slides down to the floor, crying silently. She was so lost in thought that she didn't hear someone come up behind her till it was too late.

Eris?

Someone places a hand on her shoulder and her ears perk up and she glances to her right only to see a white, black and red glove. Looking away she scoffs letting out a sigh. Shadow sighs as he is about to teleport her inside her father's room via Chaos Control.

Chaos…

Don't!

Shadow stops as she looks up at him. He looks down at her, and for a moment their eyes lock.

N-not yet… I'm….I'm not ready yet. It's just that…

Eris lets out a sigh and looks up at the door once more. She shuts her eyes tightly as tears fall down her cheeks. Sighing, he nods in understanding.

You can use my bathroom if you like?

You took the one that had a bathroom? Surprising.

Well it was either I did, or Jax and Skye fight to the death for it.

Eris scoffs out, shaking her head.

Children. Am I right?

Indeed. Bad move on giving that cat mod power.

Yeah, I'll deal with him later. But till further notice, you'll take the room closest to this one, and I'll be taking the one you have now. That way I won't have to LITERALLY fight one of you for bathroom rights in the morning. And I don't want any lip either, Shadow. On how you had it first or that…

Or that I already thought ahead and started to fix it up a bit for you so it would be ready when you got home. I've only been sleeping in there to make sure those two don't get any ideas.

I see. Then I guess I'll head down there. Thanks, I guess.

Yeah. Anyway, you're boy-toy and his friends need to come up and check the attic. But it's in your old room. Would you mind if they…

No. I don't mind. Just make sure they don't touch or break anything, or it'll be on you...BIO-FREAK…Also, make sure they're all gone by the time I get out, and let Birch know I wanna see him ASAP.

Eris gets up and walks off leaving Shadow alone. She heads down to the second floor and the room that Shadow had taken as his and finds that he had indeed started to fix it up for her return home. She could see that some of his boxes were still packed and near the door, and see that some of her bags from shopping were on the bed. Sighing, she ignores them and heads into the bathroom, and starts getting ready for a long shower. As she undresses she sets to work trying to get the gum out of her hair by following some video she found. But with how long her hair was it was taking too long, and her arms were growing tired. So giving up, she sets about and fills the tub up instead and adds bubble bath, and starts to soak for a bit. Eris sighs and closes her eyes as she lets the hot water wash over her and relax her body. It felt nice after a day of shopping. As she closes her eyes the video plays in the background on her phone.

Now if the oil or peanut butter doesn't work another way that will surely do the trick is ice. By freezing the gum, we can gently pull away at it and it should come right out. Just leave the ice cubes on for about ten to fifteen minutes and give it a shot.

Eris opens an eye and she smiles.

Why wait when I have a boyfriend who could freeze it right out in one go.

Getting out of the tub and wrapping a towel around her she heads out and upstairs to look for Birch, but as she nears her old room she hears stomping and running from above in the attic and behind it something falling to the floor and braking.

I asked that hedgehog to do ONE THING and he can't even do THAT right. Like how hard is it to make sure nothing gets broken around here!

Eris growls out as she storms into her old bedroom, pushes the door open till it hits the wall, and up to the attic door. But as she opens the door she hears someone yelling.

CLOSE THE DOOR! CLOSE THE DOOR! CLOSE THE DOOR!

Acting fast, she manages to close the door in time as something hits it with a hard THUD making her jump and almost miss a step and fall down the stairs. But she manages to hold on.

WHAT IS GOING ON IN THERE?!

DON'T OPEN THE DOOR JUST YET, ERIS!

SKYE!?

Yeah, just hold on they almost have it in the crate!

After a moment Skye calls back to her letting her know she could come in. As she enters she sees that the place was a bit of a mess and she glares at Shadow.

I gave you ONE JOB HEDGEHOG! ONE JOB! AND THIS PLACE IS A MESS!

Not my fault, Bird butt. I told them to be careful…

A-And we were till Betty freaked out…

Betty?!

Eris looks at Skye and he chuckles sheepishly.

Y-yeah, I named her Betty. Michael said I could because she felt a bit calmer with me than what Jake did.

Eris folds her arms tapping her foot.

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that's the dad, right?

Y-yeah.

And what of the chicks?

Four of them, all female.

Michael starts as he comes down from the rafters with one in hand that Birch handed to him.

So these are endangered huh? But what kind of birds are they?

Eris asks, walking over to see the chick. It sees her and hisses at her to back off, but all she does is tap it's beak making it annoyed as it clacks it at her making her giggle.

There are rare Mountain Star Owls. Not many of them left. Maybe around five hundred left in the wild if I remember right.

You are, Michael.

Mr. Harper tells him as he passes another chick down to Shadow who puts it into the other crate. Michael puts the one he had in and soon all four were now safe and Mr. Harper comes down with Birch.

There, all done. All six owls are accounted for, and we found out how they got in. There's a hole up there that needs to be fixed. So I suggest fixing it right away so more animals get in.

I'll take care of it now. I think I saw some things in the garage. Skye, would you give me a hand?

Sure, Shadow.

Well, what about this mess?

Eris asks, looking annoyed at the room.

Yeah...Sorry about that, Miss Monroe. If there was anything of value let me know and I'll have it replaced if possible. Or find a way to pay you back.

Right, well if you're all done, I need Birch for a little bit.

What do you need, baby?

And why are you up here in your towel if I may ask?

Shadow looks at her with a raised eyebrow and a hand on his hip.

Because. The video I watched said that ice could help get this damn gum out of my hair. And instead of waiting fifteen long minutes, I figured that Birch's ice powers could freeze it out in less time, and IF it works we can use it on your car and save everyone a lot of money. Just remember to give me MY damn Emerald afterward.

I already said I would, bird butt. Now if we're done I have a hole to fix, Skye go get your tools and meet me outside.

Alright, Shadow.

I've put a ribbon near the hole so you could find it.

Thanks.

Michael, give me a hand with the adults please and let's get back.

Sure thing uncle Keven.

I'll be up in a bit. I'm going to help get the crates down to the truck.

Alright. See you in a bit. Shad...my room is on the second floor at the end of the hallway.

Alright. Be back up in a bit.

Everyone leaves the attic and goes back to what it is or was doing. After about ten minutes Birch finally comes back up and knocks on the door to Eris' room. She calls out to him, and he enters and walks right into the bathroom.

Hey, I'm here.

Is everyone gone?

Yeah, Michael and his uncle are gone. Shadow and Skye are working on the hole, and Jax is cleaning up things. Shadow told him to put everything in a box for you to look at to see if it was of value or not.

I see. Close the door if you would. We need to talk about what happened today.

Nodding he closes and locks the door and takes off his gloves, he grabs a stool that was in the bathroom, and the trash bin and sits down and sets to work on her hair. As he works the gum out she explains things to him.

So after you left with Mr. Harper and his nephew. Shadow and I went to do some shopping for me.

So I saw.

Yes, well, when we went to get my hair done I came across this little hair salon called, Mystic Cuts.

I've heard of it. I Was told by my sister it's an amazing place.

I wish I knew, the guy was out today. But when we left and started walking down the way, I felt something.

What do you mean?

I think it was one of them. One of the Chaos holders. I'm not sure. But someone came driving down the road on a motorcycle and for a brief moment I felt something.

How can you be sure?

It was for only a moment, and I played it off as saying I liked the guy's motorcycle better than Shadows. I didn't want him to think something was up. I think Shadow felt something too, I'm not sure. But we got into a friendly banter about motorcycles and it was forgotten. But I'm sure it was him.

What do you need me to do?

I wouldn't mind going back tomorrow to check it out and see if my hunch was right. Trinity did say that we would know if they were close by or not.

Indeed.

As he works his fingers through her hair, freezing chunks of gum as they start to come out and he tosses them in the trash.

I don't know if I can. Mr. Harper wants me to work till his staff is better. I may be on for the full three weeks every day.

I see. Well, we need to figure something out. Because I need you, Birch. in more ways than one. Or have you forgotten?

No, I didn't forget. But you said it yourself we need to act normal around everyone so they don't find out what is going on.

Yes, I know, but he wouldn't keep you the full day, right?

I think he wishes for me to work half the day at most.

I see. From the Park to the city is about two hours. And from there to Crystal Cove Beach, it's about another three hours. Meaning it would be about five hours in full. Not to say another five back.

We could try this weekend?

Alright. Then let's move on to the next thing.

Which is?

Your team.

What of them?

You're planning to enter this year right?

We are, yes. Why do you ask?

Because I need to hunt down some new members for my team. It's going to be a full fifteen-member crew this year from what Skye told me. Right now I have Skye and Jax as my power and flying type gear users. Shadow will be on standby for the speed type, but he won't get the chance to even join in. Not if I can help it. This will be the time when every EGT out there will join in and find bigger better teams to join up with. This will also give Team Cosmic Eclipse the chance at finding new members as well.

How will you do that?

Outside of the bathroom…

Shadow had knocked on the door to see if Eris was in. Peeking inside he sees that the bathroom door was closed and he walks in to grab a few boxes belonging to him. But as he nears the bathroom door he hears Eris speaking to Birch.

"If I like what I see, then I'll have Shadow secretly hand out my calling card. An envelope with my logo on it. They will be given instructions on what to do and where to meet. Not everyone will make the cut and some teams will be split up. If we end up finding what we are looking for, then we turn them and make them the first of our followers. At the preliminaries, I will be making an announcement letting every team know that I am seeking new members and that if I like what I see out on the track they could be a shoo-in for my team. And trust me, anyone who is everyone will want to be on my team. I am a five-time champ after all.

Alright, then what?

Then we use them to find the Chaos Emeralds and bring them to me. With them, we should be able to find them.

What if they don't know what it is they're looking for?

They will once we bring them to our side. They will have some of the strengths and abilities as any Black Arms being would. Meaning they can heal over time, use some Chaos Powers, etc etc. Their powers will not be nearly as strong but strong enough. I will also give them the ability to change whoever they find worthy to follow us.

Alright, then?

For now, that is all. We need to do this in steps first. And speaking of which, about that woodpecker?

What about Tinnie?

I want her kicked off your team as punishment for what happened today.

I can't do that. She is my best friend and the only member on my team who can use flying-type gear.

I'll find you another flying-type gear user. But that woodpecker is not right in the head.

Yeah I know, she gets it from her father. And if it helps any, why don't I just suspend her from participating instead? Because if I kick her she will go AWOL.

Are you QUESTIONING my authority, Birch?

I am, yes. If she goes AWOL there is no telling what she will do. The last time she did she joined up with the New Neo Babylon Rogues. If it happens again she could join up with Eggman Jr. or someone. And then she WILL be a huge problem.

Let me guess? Being betrayed is not her cup of tea. So to say.

Something like that yeah.

Alright, fine. But you're to find a new flying type gear user to take her place, and she is to be put on as a secondary rider. Got it?

Very well.

So about those cards, you were talking about?

Sorry, but just because we're going out doesn't mean you get an automatic in. Besides, where would the fun be if you didn't work for it?

Fair enough. What about what Trinity said? You know about that prophecy?

Yes, I've been trying to figure that out as well with little luck. For now, I think we should focus on trying to find the Chaos Emerald holders first and foremost.

Wouldn't be easy…

Birch stops talking when he hears something. Narrowing his eyes, he gets up and opens the bathroom door and sees no one there. Shrugging he goes back to Eris.

What's wrong?

I thought I heard someone.

Probably Shadow coming to get some of his boxes. Anyway, Feel like working on my tail?

Sure.

Just outside the bedroom Shadow lets out a sigh and closes his eyes.

"That was a bit too close for my liking. I best be careful. But what is going on? Who is this Trinity? Why does that name sound familiar to me? I feel like I should know it somehow. And why would Eris be working with her and the Black Arms? Are more truly on their way here? No. She said she would be turning people into her followers. But how? And why? I best keep my guard up. Something is happening and I don't like it."

Shadow?

Shadow opens his eyes and sees Skye standing there looking at him confused.

Hey is everything alright, Shadow?

Yeah fine. Would you mind taking these up to the room close to Maxwell's, please?

Sure. Do you mean Eris' old bedroom or the one across it?

Across it, please.

Alright.

Shadow hands the boxes off and goes in to grab the last few and leaves. On his way out he could hear moaning from the bathroom.

Oh yes...oh Chaos that feels good Birch. C-Can you push them in...OH!? O-OH Y-YES!

Like that huh? Just wait till I get you on the bed…

Shadow cringes and leaves before hearing anything more, and before he ends up witnessing them doing the deed on the bed, or ends up starting another fight. Sighing out, he leaves and closes the door behind him. With a heavy sigh, he heads up to his new room.

Elsewhere on Mobius…1100 hours...

HELLLLP MEEEE! SOMEONE HELP ME PLEASE! THEIR GONNA GET ME!

A little boy yells out as he runs from some unknown thing. He looks behind him panting hard, but in doing so he ends up tripping over a rock and falls. Grunting out, he hurries and gets up and starts running again when the foliage behind him starts to shake. Looking forward once again he could see a break in the foliage and puts a little more speed on and bolts right for it screaming out once again.

HELLLLP ME! SOMEONE, PLEASE HELP!

The little boy yells out once again, why not too far off, as a huge red echidna was close by talking with a pregnant purple echidna. He was around six and a half feet tall, was fairly muscular, and had a white tank top on with a tribal skirt that was tan, blue, black, and green. The black had seven-colored small gems woven in the fabric in blue, cyan, green, red, purple, yellow, and white, and it was being held up by a green belt. His dreadlocks were long and had dark red tips, and were being held up by a matching hair band, the two front ones had gold bands on them with aquamarine gems in them. A few of his dreadlocks had white wraps on them, and he wore a thin golden headband with a yellow gem hanging from it. Around his neck, he wore a gold Aztec-style necklace that had a cyan-colored gem in the middle of it, that had been passed down from his ancestor Tikal. His tail was around two feet long and slightly bent, and like his dreadlocks, it was tipped dark red, and he had a couple of the same golden gem bands on it. On his hands, he had two spiked knuckles that were like his dreadlocks and tail, tipped dark red, and he wore a pair of tan and green cuff gloves with yellow strips and had the backs out of them for them. He wore a pair of slip-on sandals that had green straps in the shape of an X, and he had pull-on cuffs that were identical to the cuffs on his gloves. His eyes were a shocking amethyst purple, and his muzzle, the palm of his hands and feet, when he wasn't wearing his sandals or gloves, were dark tan due to being out in the sun all the time. On his left shoulder was a tribal tattoo of an Emerald with flame-like markings around it.

He was Knuckles the Echidna. And he was the tribal leader of his clan that lived up on the floating island, Angel Island. When he heard the little boy screaming for help he ran towards him as the little boy ran past him and to the purple female echidna. Knuckles keeps running and runs right into the jungle foliage with a mighty roar, pounding his fits together. Everything was quiet for a long time, and both the woman and boy wondered if everything was alright, as several warriors came running over having been close by and heard the boy screaming. They skid to a stop in front of the woman and boy, and near the jungle foliage and hold their spears and shields up at the ready. They waited for a bit longer, and soon the foliage started shaking as voices were heard, with them...GIGGLING?!

The warriors look at one another wondering what was going on when Knuckles comes bursting out of the foliage with several little kids attached to him as they beat him with toy spears and their hands.

GET HIM! GET THE EVIL CHIEF! WE HAVE TO PROTECT LADY KOMI-KO!

The warriors relax and lower their shields and spears smiling and chuckling as they watch the spectacle before them. Knuckles stumbles about trying to shake the kids, all the while laughing in the process and playing along.

YOU WILL NEVER GET ME! FOR I AM THE MIGHTY EVIL KNUCKLES THE ECHIDNA! AND I WILL TAKE YOU ALL DOWN! I HAVE TAKEN THE FAIR LADY KOMI-KO AND I WILL MAKE HER MY WIFE BY FORCE! AND THERE IS NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT! HA HA HA HA HAAAAAAAA!

NO, YOU WON'T! WE THE MIGHTY TRIBAL WARRIORS OF THE GREAT AND MIGHTY KNUCKLES CLAN WILL STOP YOU!

YOU WILL NEVER STOP ME FOR I HAVE THE STRANGE OF A THOUSAND MEN!

Knuckles yells out acting in the role of the villain. Two kids were hanging on his arms like monkeys, as he flexed them. One was on his head betting him with his toy spear. Another was on his leg holding on for dear life as Knuckles swung his arms and legs around trying to throw them off, and another one was holding onto his waist giggling as she tried to climb up him to help the others, the boy who was with Komi-Ko giggles and runs to help his friends out. He grabs a hold of his other leg and starts to beat him with his fist. Knuckles laughs out but as he turns around a much smaller kid comes out of the foliage and she jumps up and grabs a hold of his tail and bites down hard making Knuckles yell out and the warriors and Komi-Ko flinch.

YEOOOOW!

Knuckle looks behind him and sees the girl and narrows his eyes at her.

NO BITING TALA-MI!

She glares up at him and if looks could kill hers would have done it ten times over as she bites down on his tail once again making him yell out again.

GAAAAAAAH! STOP THAT TALA-MI! RIGHT NOW BEFORE I…. OW…. GEEZ…

GET HIM TALA-MI! GET THE EVIL CHIEF! COME EVERYONE HELP HER OUT!

Knuckle's eyes widen as he starts getting pelted even more by the kids with more aggression. They laugh out as they take on Knuckles.

HEY NOW COME...OW! HEY TAKE IT EASY, HAWKWOLF! OW! TAMMY-LA STOP THAT! DON'T YOU EVEN THINK ABOUT IT STEPHENFOX...GAAAAAAAH!

As he was trying to fight off the kids, the warriors were trying not to laugh out but were failing badly. Even Komi-Ko couldn't hold her laughter back as the kids took on Knuckles. As the kids attack him, the two on his legs go and tie his sandals together and yell out to their friends.

IT'S DONE! HURRY MOVE OUT OF THE WAY! MOVE OUT OF THE WAY!

WAIT? WHAT'S….WHOOOA!

Knuckles takes a step back as the kids jump off him and run off giggling. He swings his arms trying to keep his balance but he starts to fall. He twists around, and as he does, Tala-Mi goes flying during mid-bite and one of the warriors catches her before she ends up hurt as they watch Knuckles fall to the ground face first. He hits the ground hard and groans as Hawkwolf yells out.

GET HIM!

Knuckles groans out as he looks up and holds his head. But as he looks up he sees the kids coming his way and before he has time to react, he rolls over as they jump on him. He laughs out as they attack him once again. Tala-Mi wiggles to get free and the warrior chuckles out and sets her down as she goes running after her friends to help them. Knuckles laugh out as they attack him all over again. He tries to fight them off with little luck with his sandals being tied together. The warriors and Komi-Ko laugh out as he tries to fight back without hurting the kids. As he glances over he finally sees his warriors there watching him and he growls out mad and yells at them.

A LITTLE HELP WOULD BE NICE! GET THESE….OOOOOW! TALA-MI STOP BIT...OOOOOW! STOP STANDING THERE AND...OW!

Komi-Ko and the warriors run over and help get the kids off him all the while laughing.

Alright kids, enough now. Go on now. Run off.

The kids laugh and giggle out as they run off to go play some more. Knuckles groans out and lets his head fall back to the ground with a heavy sigh with his eyes closed. He rests for a moment till he hears a hardy laugh and opens an eye and looks up at another brown echidna with black hair looking down at him. His bright blue eyes sparkle as he smiles down at him.

HA HA HA HAAA! So did they finally take down the evil Chief Knuckles this time?

I'll say they did, Remmy. CHAOS...those KIDS! Sheesh. You would think they would learn to take it easy once in a while.

Remington chuckles out as he walks over and holds out a hand for him. Looking up, Knuckles smiles and takes a hold of it. But as he takes a step he nearly falls back over having forgotten about the kids tying his sandals together. Remington catches him and chuckles out as Komi-Ko comes over and helps him giggling.

Thank you, you two.

No worries, Knuckles.

She tells him why placing a hand on her belly, smiling brightly. Letting out a sigh, he brushes himself off.

I swear those kids. Are you sure you two want to have a kid?

A little late to rethink things, Knux.

Remmy is right, I'll be due to lay my egg soon so a little too late to go back.

Well just make sure you teach them not to bite. CHAOS that Tala-Mi has a set of chompers on her. I don't think I'll be able to sit right for a WEEK after this.

Knuckles swings his tail around getting a good look at it and sighs at seeing some of the fur all messed up. He brushes it back down, wincing from where Tala-Mi bit him. Remington and Komi laugh as they start walking back. The warriors were not far behind them.

So what brings you all the way out here?

I wanted to let you know that the Island is nearing Seaside Bay. We should be showing up soon.

Wonderful. It's been a bit since I saw Starline and his family. At least their kids are more behaved than these little heathens.

You can't blame them, Knuckles. They're just kids having fun.

Even still. Speaking of which. Rexiton?

One of the warriors comes over and nods his head.

Yes, Chief Knuckles.

Have you seen my little stepbrother around?

Mace? Not sure? I think I saw him over at Lake Nessie not too long ago. But he could be back in the village.

Alright, take the men and get back to your posts. It's about time to start the afternoon patrol.

Alright.

Right, I'll be seeing you both later, but send word if you end up laying your egg why I am gone Komi-Ko.

We will Knuckles.

Nodding Knuckles goes looking for his brother and after asking around he finally finds him at the Master Emerald Shrine. He nods at the Warriors standing guard and as he walks up he could hear him resisting the prayer of his people.

The servers are the seven chaos, chaos is power, power is enriched by the one who controls the powers. Ancestors hear my call and give me a vision of this day…

Knuckles quietly walks up the stairs so as not to bother his brother. His brother Mace, was a red echidna like himself. He had two tufts of bangs on his head, and like knuckles, he wore similar attire to Knuckles, only he had a white tank top on unlike his brother, and his dreadlocks were shorter than his brothers. He was on his knees with a hand on the Master Emerald. The Master Emerald shines in sunlight and sparkles. It glows faintly as Mace once again asks for its help. But after a moment he sighs and gives up.

Something is wrong Knuckles. It's not like Tikal not to answer me.

How can you be so sure something is wrong?

Mace looks up at his brother, his blue eyes full of worry.

Even tho I'm in training to be head Warrior, and will be in a few days, you know as I do, that I have a connection with the Master Emerald as well. I can sense things just like you, maybe not as strong, but Tikal has never ignored me before when I needed her guidance. So why now? It is like...I don't know...Like…

Mace lets out a sigh as he places his hand back on the Emerald and closes his eyes once again consecrating. Mace was only twenty years old, but he was a strong and powerful warrior and led the warriors, and just like Knuckles, he had a connection to the Master Emerald and to Tikal.

Like she is not there. Like she has left the Master Emerald.

What?! How is this possible? Let me see.

Mace looks at him and nods as he gets up and moves out of the way. Closing his eyes, Knuckles tries himself and after a few attempts, he opens his eyes, and his brows furrowed as he hums out confused.

You're right. I don't sense her at all. But why?

I'm not sure. But I'm glad you are here. I found something at Lake Nessie that truly worries me.

What did you find?

Mace walks over to him and pulls out a satchel pouch and hands it to him. Curious Knuckles starts to open it but Mace stops him.

Hold on!

What is it?

I would be careful opening that.

Mace tells him.

Why?

Because there is something different about it.

It?

Mace nods as Knuckles slowly open the satchel and the moment he does he and Mace both are blinded by a bright blue light. The Master Emerald reacts to it's smaller counterpart as a beam of light shoots up and out of the hole in the roof of the shine. Storm clouds start forming overhead and thunder rumbles as lightning goes off lighting up the darkening skies. The warriors below look up at the sky curious about the sudden weather change as rain soon falls. The wind starts to pick up, blowing Knuckles' and Mace's dreadlocks about as he pulls out the blue Chaos Emerald.

What in the world?

He asks as he turns the Chaos Emerald in his hand. The emerald sparks in the light of the Master Emerald, and lightning. He looks at his brother confused as the storm soon ends as fast as it came. Knuckles and Mace look up as the warriors come up wondering what was going on.

Chief Knuckles?!

Yes I know, there is nothing to worry about. At least...not yet. Go back to your posts.

Knuckles tells them without looking at them but at his brother. They nod leaving, giving them time alone.

Mace?

I'm not sure what is going on. But when I found it did the same thing, but not on such a grand scale. When it died down I put it in my satchel and came right here to seek Tikal's help.

And that is when you found her gone?

Yeah. Knuckles, I think the Emeralds have changed somehow?!

What!?

THINK about it. The moment you pull out the emerald the Master Emerald lights up. Now if I remember right, the Emeralds haven't been used in about fifteen years or so. Not since the last battle with Robotnik. Or so history has taught us.

Hmm…

I mean think about it. The Master Emerald only reacts like that when something big is going on, or the other Chaos Emeralds are around. But for a STORM to come and go just as fast?! That in itself is weird don't you think?!

Yes. I agree, brother. This is weird. I have never known the Chaos Emeralds to change before. But I wonder…

Closing his eyes, he whispers a prayer and soon the skies darken once again and a gentle rain starts up. Mace looks up and gasps out now knowing he was right.

Knuckles, LOOK!

Knuckles opens his eyes and sees the rain. Narrowing his eyes he says the prayer and once again it goes away.

Strange.

And cool!

Knuckles tries again only this time without saying the prayer and only thinks. Again it starts and stops all over, making Knuckles worry even more.

This is concerning. VERY concerning.

Knuckles do you think this has something with Tikal being gone?

I don't know, but something big is definitely going on. Because if I am not mistaken, this Emerald is somehow attuned with the element of water.

If that is true if the Chaos Emerald is now somehow connected with the water element do you know what this could mean for all of Angel Island!?

Yes, but why? I mean that would be good. But it could also be bad as well if you think about it. If this newly changed emerald can harness the power of water, imagine what people like Ivan could do with it.

Why do you think it changed?

I'm not sure. But I bet Dr. Starline would know. would you mind if I took it with me?

No, not at all. I'll stay here and watch over the Master Emerald while you are gone. But please be safe. I fear something big is happening.

Yeah.

Nodding. Knuckles puts the Chaos Emerald back in the satchel and ties it to his waist and starts to leave but stops and looks at his brother.

Mace?

Yeah, Knux?

I'm counting on you to watch over the island, the warriors, and the Village. If anything comes up, inform me right away.

I will I promise, Knuckles. You know you can count on me, I'm not the same little puggle I use to be.

No, you are not. Good luck, Mace, May Aurora be with you.

You as well brother.

Nodding, Knuckles turns around and heads back to his family's hut to get ready to leave. Once there he was greeted by Saber and Specter.

Knuckles hello grandson!

Hello grandson.

Grandfather's good. You're here.

They both looked at one another at hearing the tone in his voice and knew something was up.

Knuckles, what's wrong?

This is what's wrong.

He tosses Specter the satchel and heads to his room as they follow him. He opens it up and takes out the Emerald. Both his and Sabers' eyes widen at seeing the Chaos Emerald and look at him confused.

What are you talking about?

What I am talking about is the fact you didn't notice how just moments ago there was a thunderstorm outside, and how it just left as fast as it came?

Saber and Specter look at one another confused.

We...did notice that yes. But the weather on Angel Island has always been peculiar.

Saber is right, grandson.

So you don't sense anything weird about the emerald at all?

No, should we?

Humming out annoyed and also curious about why his grandfathers didn't sense anything wrong he tells them what happened back at the Altar of the Master Emerald. Once done, Specter becomes worried.

How strange!

Indeed. And you said Mace found the Emerald?

Yeah, and I'm taking it down to Zachery and see if he can figure something out. Have you ever heard of any of the emeralds taking on an elemental touch before?

Sadly no, and I would think we would have heard something about this before.

Saber tells him as he rubs his chin in thought.

Perhaps something in the old archives may have something?

Why don't you two head there now and see what you can dig up? And let my father, Lock know what is going on.

Sure thing. We will call you if we find anything.

Nodding, Knuckles grabs his things, and the Chaos Emerald, and leaves.

Down below on Seaside Bay...18:00 hours…

The first twenty-four hours were coming to a close and Quick Shot had only just learned Titania's signature move. He lay in the grass panting hard from the backlash of the move. He sits up on his elbows and tips his hat up with the tip of his gun looking at the boulder, chuckling out.

Nice.

Indeed, Mr. Quick Shot. Now that you've learned my move, now it is time to turn it into your signature move.

But do you truly think I have what it takes to pull it off?

I believe you do, Sugar Shot.

Quick Shot and Titania look behind them and see Bella walking out of the foliage. She moves a leaf out of her way and smiles. Quick Shot smiles and gets up, brushing himself off as he goes over to her, kissing her.

Bella, how are you feeling?

Better after a rest. I've been to see Mr. Starline, and Prince and they're still trying to find something about the golden box Tikal showed us.

Anything?

Sadly no. He is hopping with Mr. Echidna on his way here, he may know something. I drew the box thanks to the colored pencils that Duke let me use, and I left it with them.

Have you heard from Jasper yet?

No nothing yet, and nothing from Mali-Fa, and I'm starting to worry.

Same. Not to say I have yet to hear a peep from the twins. Bella, do you know if Duke ever found Annabel-lee yet?

Titania asks her.

No, I don't. He did ask me if I'd seen her when he came to check up on me. That was when I asked if he or the girls had any draw supplies I could use.

I see. Quick Shot, I want you to stay here and keep at it. I'm going back to find the rest. Bella, do you think you are well enough to head back to Risa and your friends and check up on them?

Are you sure that is a good idea, Titania? I mean if she knows everything like we think she does, we could be in huge trouble.

What other choice do we have? Right now if anything I fear for my family.

Alright. I'll go. But before we do we need to plan this out. Come on, I have an idea.

Bella turns around and Quick Shot and Titania follow her. She leads them to Zachery's lab and they head in and to where she saw them last. As they enter, Dr. Starline looks up from some papers and greets them.

Hello dear. And welcome back Bella, Quick Shot.

Thank you, Mr. Starline.

So what brings you back my dear?

Zachery asks Bella as she gets right to it.

I was wondering if you had any wide-range communication devices that can't be traced by anything or one?

Zachery narrows his eyes at her, getting a bad feeling.

What is going on?

We haven't heard from Jasper yet and we're worried.

Not to say I have yet to hear back from Duke about Annabel-lee.

Titania tells him worried.

Oh my. Well, you know how Annabel-lee is? She is a handful and loves exploring. Have you tried looking in town?

Sadly no. I've been with Quick Shot all day helping him learn my signature move.

So what do you need the communication devices for?

I'm heading back to Risa, and if she already knows what we think she does, then I want to have an open line here for you to listen in to, and that way if something goes south, Quick Shot here can come to save us.

I see? Hmm…? I think I do have something that can help. Prince, come give me a hand a moment son.

Sure thing father.

They leave the room and they come back after a bit and Zachery sets down a small case and opens it up.

I made these some time ago. They're completed but I never got the chance to test them out. They were made long ago during another life, they were to have been meant for those under my rule and undercover why working for Eggman. But things happened and here we are. They are small enough that they can't be seen, and they can not be detected by Eggman's tech. Though if Risa is under the rule of Ivan that could be a problem. She has enplaned whiskers that can pick up electrode magnetic fields and could find them.

Maybe I can help with that, father? I've been working on something that could help block out such waves. I'll just need about twenty minutes.

Do it, Prince, and be quick about it.

Nodding, he takes hold of one of the communication devices and sets to work. After twenty minutes he snaps it back in it's place with the others and types away at a small handheld device and nods when he sees the light on it turn green.

Done. They should now be protected from being found out by Ivan or Risa.

Just place it in your ear and you should be good to go. Quick Shot you take one as well.

Nodding, Bella and Quick Shot take one each and put it in their ear. Prince nods and walks over to Bella.

May I?

Yeah?

Humming out, she moves her hair out of the way as Prince types away at his handheld and it vanishes from sight. He goes over and does the same thing with Quick Shots.

Done. I used a specialized cloaking program on them to hide them. Just talk normally and everything should be good. I have them connected to the computer here at the lab. Also if you go and gently brush your ear, a specialized screen will appear showing your visuals such as body heat, heart rate, and such, and give you a way to hear who is close by. We will be able to hear everything you do and say and give you a warning should something come up. Take the other three with you and give them to Jasper and his brother, and the other one to Mali. Once they place them in, they will cloak on their own. Let them know to act normal at all times so Risa doesn't suspect anything is wrong.

Right.

Go and be careful.

Nodding, Bella gives Quick Shot a kiss and leaves.

I don't like this at all. If it's alright with you all, I would like to do some scouting around, and make sure that Risa doesn't have any of her toys watching us.

Feel free to, we have been watching the cameras all day and have spotted nothing. If she does have drones, they could be cloaked. But the jungle foliage is thick so they could be hiding as well.

Don't worry I can tell when something is being cloaked or hiding. I'm not a top-notch mercenary for nothing, mate.

Quick Shot tips his hat at him making him smile.

Why you do that I'm going to see if I can find Duke and Elizabeth-Ann and make sure they're alright and safe.

Right, be careful Titania.

You as well Mr. Quick Shot.

They both leave and once they are outside they exchange a few words and go on their way. Back at the beach, Bella had just made it back and walked right into the campsite. Risa spots her and calls out to her.

Bella!

Coming!

As she walks over to her, she brushes some hair out of her way, activating the screen. She walks past some men and stands before her.

Welcome Back, Bella. How are you feeling?

Better after some rest.

Good, good. So would you like to tell me what happened last night?

I'm not sure, to be honest. I thought I saw something on the screen and I guess a bit of vertigo took over.

It seemed like a bad case of vertigo if you ask me?

Yeah, heh. I tend to get them now and again when traveling across the sea. I guess it finally caught up to me and took me down.

I see. Well, anyway I'm glad you are here. I wanted to know if Dr. Starline and his son found out more about why we are here.

From my understanding nothing yet. They were still looking into it.

I see. Bella, may I be a bit...BOLD with you?

But of course? What is wrong?

I get the feeling there could be a traitor in my mist, and I for one do not like traitors. And if I don't like them, that means Ivan doesn't like them. Now I know you and your team are paid to do your job, but I also get an idea that there could be a traitor in your team's mists as well.

WHAT?! How is that possible?! All of our members are loyal to me and Quick Shot. We trust them all.

Are you sure about that?

Yes!

Then why haven't I seen Jasper's brother around of late?

You know that is a good question? We assumed he went into town for the night. He tends to do that when we go somewhere new. You know, to find out info and such.

I see. Well, I want you to keep an eye out and let me know if you see anything funny. Right now I have...OTHER matters to attend to.

Alright.

Nodding, Risa walks off and Bella goes to seek Jasper out. She soon finds him on the ship helping with the cleaning crew and patching things up.

Hey, Jasper, do you have a moment?

Huh? Yeah, what's up Bella?

She goes over to him and leans in and whispers to him.

Not here. Follow me.

Huh?

She points over her shoulder with a thumb and walks off. He follows her till they feel they are safe.

Here, put this in your ear.

What is?

A communication device that Prince and his father made. It will help keep us all in touch.

As he puts the piece in his ear, it vanishes like Prince said it would, and she tells him what's going on.

I see. So she does know what we're up to after all. But I know my brother. He wouldn't up and leave out-of-the-blue like this. He is loyal to the team. I mean not even Quick Shot shooting at him like he did would send him packing. Not without telling me first that he was leaving.

Then is it possible he could still be on the ship?

Quick Shot asks him via the comms.

It's the only thing I can think of, Quick Shot. Hey Prince you there, Mate?

I'm here, Mr. Jasper. What's going on?

Is there any way you can scan the ship for my brother?

Not sure, to be honest. I could try? Give me a moment if you would?

Sure.

Bella and Jasper wait for a bit as they hear Prince typing away at the computer. After a bit, he growls out annoyed.

Blast. I can't scan it. It looks like the whole ship is somehow being cloaked by something that is preventing it from being scanned.

Then how are we going to find Drake?

Not sure? Tell me, Bella, can you see any heat signatures other than the ones close by?

Hold on.

Bella looks around and tries to see if she could see Drake via heat signature.

Nothing! I can't see any heat signatures at all!? I don't understand? I saw them when I was on the beach, but now nothing.

That's not good at all, mate. So what should we do? Right now I'm on the other side of the island watching for Risa's toys so I can't help.

I am not sure Mr. Quick Shot. But if Bella can't see any heat signatures, then it is a good bet that Ivan built a ship with some kind of alloy that prevents one from being able to use heat-seeking equipment to keep his hired hands hidden.

Then what should we do, Prince, Quick Shot?

You're going to have to go it alone in finding him. Jasper, I need you to head to the heart of the ship and find me the command station and get me logged into the egg network. Once in I can hack into the egg net and find out what Risa knows. Bella, it will be up to you to find Mr. Drake and make sure he is alright.

Now hold on, I think I should be the one to look for my brother, not Bella. Eh...No offense or anything?

Non-taken Sugar Croc. Besides, he's right. I should go find the command station. I know my way around a computer better than Jasper. He couldn't program the TV last time and we had to get a new one the same day. No offense.

Offense taken, Luv.

Bella giggles sticking out her tongue.

Very well but hurry there is no telling how much time we have left. And both of you be careful.

Roger.

With that, they part ways and go do as they were told. Bella soon finds the communication station on the ship but softly growls out as she whispers.

Hey, I found the communication station, but there are some of Risa's men in there, along with Mali-Fa. What should I do?

We already know Mali-Fa is on our side, so maybe we could use that to our advantage.

How?

But before he could answer her, the men in the room get up, and thinking fast, Bella jumps up and grabs onto the pipes overhead and hides. One of the men stretches out as the other scratches his back. They walk off and down the hallway and turn a corner. Bella lets go of the pipes as her books make a clunking sound. Another set of footsteps was heard. Bella barely glances over as someone speaks.

You have thirty minutes before they come back, Bella. So you best make it fast. Risa already has her eyes on me.

Right. Thanks, Mali-Fa. Hey, you wouldn't by chance know where they're keeping Drake on the ship, would you?

Check the lower decks in the hold. There are a few rooms down there to hold prisoners.

Did you get that Jasper?

Bella asks him via the comms.

Yeah, loud and clear. I'm heading down there now. Tell Mali-Fa I said thanks.

Jasper says thanks. Also, put this in your ear.

Bella hands her a com-link and she nods.

Nice to finally have you along again, Mali-Fa. I was beginning to worry about you.

Thanks. Now, what is it we need to do?

I need to hack into the egg network and figure out what is going on and what Ivan is up to. See if he knows something we don't about this prophecy or not.

Right, I can help with that.

Nodding the girls head in and start working. It takes them two minutes but they're soon in.

Holy cow, there is a lot here. But how will we know what it is we're looking for?

Leave that to me, Bella, I know my way around Ivan's network. But I'm going to need help in keeping me hidden from it, can you do that Prince?

Leave it to me. But we need to be in sync for it to work. Can you link your tablet back to me?

Yeah, hold on.

Mali-Fa sets to work on linking her tablet back to Prince and his father, while Bella keeps a lookout.

Anything yet Mali-Fa?

Hold on, I'm nearly there...GOT IT! We're linked now, Prince.

Excellent, I can see everything now. Give me time to try and work my way through the files Risa has.

Try to hurry. I don't know how much longer we have till they come back.

As Bella watches she could hear someone coming from down the left hall. Cursing out she warns Mali-Fa.

HURRY MALI-FA! I hear someone coming!

Shit! Prince!

Don't worry I'm a step ahead of you. I'm downloading the files now to look over them. Father is setting up security measures right now to scan the files as we download them. But we need time!

Time is one thing we don't have!

Bella hisses out as she looks over her shoulder.

STALL THEM! I NEED ANOTHER FIVE TO TEN MINUTES!

Prince hisses out as they try to work faster.

HOW!

I don't know but think of SOMETHING!

UGH!

Stomping her foot, she gets a hold of Quick Shot.

Sugar Shot you're not going to like what I'm about to do, but they need time.

Do what you need to, just try not to go overboard, will you?

No promises. Not unless Tikal has any ideas to hide us all. But I doubt it.

Alright just be careful, Bella baby.

I will. That I can promise. But if I were you Sugar Shot I'd go dark, because you won't like what I'm about to do.

Not on your life, I'm sticking around should something come up.

Fine but don't say I didn't warn you.

With that, she heads down the left hallway and pulls her pants down a bit to show her curves more, and makes herself look eye-catching. As she nears the end of the hallway, she puts her foot up on the wall across from her and folds her arms. Her cranberry wine red hair covers her face some, giving her an alluring sexy look. As the two men from before turn the corner laughing, they stop as they see her and smile a lust full smile.

Why hello there?

One of them, a Dingo, greets her.

Hello handsome.

Hey, hey there baby, what are you doing down here?

The other one, a Tiger, asks her, smiling as he licks his lips and rests an arm on the wall next to Bella.

Oh, I was looking for a couple of handsome boys to help me with a little something. If you catch my drift.

Really, babe, that's how you're going to do it? By offering them a blow job?

She ignores him and winks at the boys as she slowly unzips her top some to reveal her breasts. The guy's eyes light up as she reaches down with another hand and gently caresses her inner thigh. They chuckle out and lick their lips and start to play along.

Oh, we catch your drift alright. But don't you belong that that stupid weasel wolf?

What did he just call me?! Oh if I catch him he's dead.

Bella rolls her eyes as she ignores him and answers the Tiger.

Who, Quick Shot? Please, he is NOTHING compared to the two of you. Why I bet you're a LOT bigger down below than he is.

You'll be sorry for that later baby when this is all done.

Quick Shot tells her as she purrs out ignoring him as she lets her leg fall and she nuzzles up to the Dingo and reaches down to rub at his crotch. He blushes a bit and his tail starts to wag as he looks down at her and the Tiger purrs out and moves in behind her, rubbing against her as he takes hold of her hips letting her feel his package that was starting to grow.

Oh my, you're just as big as well. I would LOVE to see more.

She tells them with a wink and a lick of her lips as she rubs against the Tiger.

Please tell me you're not doing what I think you're doing, babe. Because if you are…

QUICK SHOT ENOUGH! LET HER BE! WE'RE ALMOST DONE!

Mali-Fa yells at him.

Alright, alright. Fine. But I don't like this.

She did warn you that you wouldn't. Mr. Quick Shot.

Oh shut it feather brain, and finish downloading those files you want.

RUDE!

Prince tells him scoffing. Bella on the other hand wished they would all shut up and let her work. But Prince was right she did warn him he wouldn't like it but he wanted to stick around so now he had to suffer, and she knew later they would fight about it too. She knew it wasn't her best move, but it was all she could think of on the spot. Mentally sighing, the Tiger looks at his friend and asks him.

Oh oh oh… what do you say, Jake? Should we show her?

I don't know, Victor? I mean you saw what that weasel wolf did to Drake.

Yeah so? He's not around right now, and she is. And truth be told it's been a bit since I've been with a pretty little female like her. Why I bet you anything she's still as pure as a diamond down there. Never been touched, never been broken.

You'd be right about that. And truth be told, I've come into season and I need some help with getting that sweet spot.

Wait? Are you really in season, baby?! So help me if you…

Quick Shot let her work, dammit!

Seeing that Jake needed more convincing, she reaches back up and rubs his abs and slowly moves her hand back down and into his pants and rubs his crotch once again. And if that wasn't convincing enough, his tail started to wag even faster as he looked down at her.

You said you and that stupid ugly weasel wolf have yet to do it?

That's right. So how about it? Wanna have some fun?

We shouldn't, we're about to go back on duty and you know that…

Fuck Risa and her orders, dude. We have a female right here in front of us in season and all but THROWING herself at us, and begging us to fuck her! If you don't want to, fine. But I'm not missing this chance to fuck that tight little pussy of hers. So what says, you babe?

I agree if Jake doesn't want to, then more of me for you. Hell, maybe once this is all over we could ditch your buddy fully and start a family. You look like a family man, Victor.

Heh. I always did want to have kids one day and I bet Tiger fox kids would truly be cute.

Bella giggles out and removes her hand from Jake's pants and turns around and places her hands on his chest and lifts her left leg as he takes hold of her hips and kisses her.

Why don't you come down this way, I know the perfect place where we can have some privacy.

Ooh, do show. As for you Jakey-poo your loss if you don't wanna join.

Victor leads Bella down the way leaving Jake behind. He tries to ignore the hardening in his pants as images of Bella naked and her touching herself and even ridding him flash before his mind's eye as he sees himself holding her and fucking her brains out. Growling annoyed he curses under his breath.

FUCK! Hey wait up you two I'm coming.

Bella glances over her shoulder smiling as he makes his way over to them.

What about Risa? Won't you get into trouble with her?

Bella asks in a cute pouty way.

Fuck Rise and her rules. Right now I just want you.

Sorry but I get first dibs on her since you backed out.

That's fine I can do her ass why you break her in for the first time.

Victor chuckles out as he opens a door and leads them in. Jake follows and Bella sees their in a store room and a decent-sized one. Victor closes the door behind them and locks it. Bella glances over her shoulder and turns around as they start to undo their pants.

We should be alright here. Now, why not show us more of your assets? It wouldn't be fair if we got all undressed and you didn't.

Victor tells her as he grabs her hips roughly and forces her into his front. She places her hands on his chest and gaps out as Jake chuckles darkly as he comes in from behind trapping her between them. They start to rub her down, touching her all over and helping her with her top.

H-Hey now...not so fast boys!?

Sorry babe, but we need this, and your scent is driving us mad.

Bella curses in her head, wishing she wasn't in season right now of all times. Especially with it being her first season to top it off. And she was not going to let these morons take it from Quick Shot. But she knew she had to play it cool or give herself up. So thinking fast she pushes against them.

OK now ENOUGH! If we're going to do this, then we need to do this right.

What do you mean, baby?

Jake asks her.

Let me take the lead. This is my first heat and I would like to enjoy it. Thank you very much.

Alright, fair enough. Then start.

They let her go and she bends down to start to undo her boots, but at the last moment, she sends an upward kick at Jake and sends him flying back into the wall. Vector, surprised by this, growls out and flexes his claws.

WHAT THE HELL…

But before he could finish what he was saying she punched him in the face and was on both of them. They scuffle for a bit till at last, she manages to take them both down. Finding some rope in the room she ties them up. Scoffing out, she zips up her top once again and fixes her pants, and boots, and kicks Jake in the balls again making him grunt out. She picks up her tonfas she had dropped when Victor had jumped her and walks over to him, and using the tip of it, lifts his chin up to look at her.

Alright, start talking assholes. What is Risa planning? What is she up to!?

Heh, I knew it was too good to be true. A vixen like you is always sly and crafty.

Victor says. Growling, she punches him and speaks once more.

I SAID START TALKING NOW! UNLESS YOU WANT ME TO CASTRATE YOU!

Geez baby, hardcore much?

I'll do the same to you as well Quick Shot now shut up and let me do my work!

Hey, who are you talking to?

That is none of your business. Now start talking before I cut your cocks off and stuff them down your throats!

Do it, you won't get anything out of me.

Nor me, bitch. We're not telling you anything!

You best start talking because if you don't I have my ways to make you both talk.

You may have your way Bella, but we don't have much time. I just finished downloading everything to Prince and he has all the files needed.

Then get the hell out of there now. I'm not done with these two. Not till I find out what they know and what Risa is up to.

Alright, then we will meet back at Dr. Starline's house. Just be careful. Speaking of which, Jasper, any luck finding your brother yet?…

In the lower hull of the ship…

Yeah, I think I found him, but he's being guarded by some of Risa's men. I can see him and he looks in bad shape.

How bad are we talking?

Mali-Fa asks him as she heads his way.

Like he's been put through the meat grinder and spit back out several times. Shit, hold on someone's coming…

Seeing that one of the guards was walking toward him, he ducks further behind some boxes and waits for them to pass. After they pass, he peeks over the boxes again and looks around. Seeing how the other guards were looking away he moved closer to his brother.

I need to figure out something and get him out of here. I don't know what Risa has been doing to him in the last twenty-four hours but it can't be good.

Jasper clenches his teeth together trying to think of something to do to save his brother. He was starting to formulate a plan when the sound of new footfall was heard. Peeking over the boxes he gasps out.

Mali-Fa what the hell are you doing!?

He hisses out in a harsh whisper as she answers him not looking up from her tablet.

Just stay hidden and let me handle this.

Are you INSANE!? What if they catch on?!

They will if you don't shut the hell up! They know I am a high-ranking member and not to be messed with. Now just stay put and wait for my signal.

Fine!

With nothing else to do he looks around the boxes he was behind and waits for her signal. As she walks up to the guards she clears her throat gaining their attention.

Sub Boss Mali-Fa welcome, Ma'am.

One guard greets her as she speaks.

Yes, thank you. I've come to see how the interrogation is going with the prisoner.

So far he isn't talking at all. We've tried everything but he's a tough croc to crack.

The other tells her.

I see. Then I guess it's a good thing I decided to come on down and check on things.

Ma'am?

Well clearly you're not doing your job right or you would have gotten something out of him by now. So now that means I need to get my hands dirty and I truly hate doing that. But it MUST be done. Ma'am Risa demands answers now. Now let me in!

They both look at her confused as one becomes bold and asks her what they were both thinking.

Wait, you're going to interrogate him?

But of course, why wouldn't I?

Well...It's just you don't seem like the type to…

To get my hands dirty? Or is it because I'm a female? Or how about the fact that I'm Risa's right-hand woman and you're nothing but a bunch of LAP dogs doing the grunt work? You do know I'm an Echidna right? And you do know what we are known for right?

Well...ah…

I assure you I have done this before, and unlike you lot, I know how to get information out of people.

Well, it's just that we were taking a break and that, and giving him time to think things over. We've been at it since last night, Sub-boss Mali-Fa, and we need a rest.

On whose orders?

Well...no one's really?

Uh-huh? And did Ma'am Risa tell you to stop?

Well no.

Then get the hell out of my way and let me in, I'll get what we need out of him.

Not one to go against a Sub bosses orders they unlock the cell and let her in. She walks in and sets her tablet down and undoes her jacket and hangs it up as she undoes the cuffs to her blouse and the blouse itself and hangs it up leaving her in her skirt and tank top. Scoffing, she looks over at Drake and smiles as she walks over to him. He had a badly swollen black eye, his mouth was bleeding from deep gashes on his muzzle, and a couple of his teeth were broken, and some were gone having been punched out leaving bleeding gums behind. He had new cuts on him, and it looked as if his robotic leg had been messed up some. Some of his spins had been broken as well during the last bunch that was in there. Looking at him, Mali-Fa sees his knives on the wall and walks over to them and takes one out of the hold and twists the tip of it into her finger gently so as not to break the sink, and she grabs ahold of his muzzle and looks him dead in the eyes.

Alright, Mr. Drake. It's time you and I had a little talk.

I ain't talking, Sheila. And there is no way you can make me.

Oh, no? You truly don't know who it is you're messing with, now do you?

I don't care. Just finish me off and be done with it. At least this way Risa will have a new crocodile skin rug in her office by the end of tonight.

Sorry but it's not going to happen. At least not yet it isn't.

And why is that?

Because…

She leans in close to him and whispers something in his ear. For a split second his eyes widen in surprise but return to normal just as fast. As the two men watched her, four more came walking back and saw something was going on. Upon seeing Mali-Fa in the room one of them chuckles out darkly.

Oh, this is going to be good. I was hoping one day I'd get to see the great Mali-Fa get her hands dirty.

Why, because it turns you on when they do?

Oh hell no, Mali-Fa is well known around here for getting people to talk. She has earned the nickname, The Amethyst Viper.

The Amethyst Viper huh?

Yeah, she uses her enemy's own weapons against them when she interrogates them, and she strikes where it will do the most damage making them bleed out slowly and painfully.

Heh, nice.

As they and the others talk, Mali-Fa slowly cuts the ropes holding Drake's hands and arms together, all the while she tells him her plan.

FORGET IT BITCH! Bribe me all you want, but I ain't turning against my brother or mates! I would rather die a slow and painful DEATH than work for the likes of the new Eggman Empire. So forget it!

Mali-Fa finishes cutting the ropes enough so he was still tied up, but could easily snap them when she gave the word.

Shame, I guess I'll have to do this the hard way then.

She tells him as she straightens back up. As she does she turns swiftly and backhands him with the knife in hand. It cuts his eye patch off and ends up leaving a new cut over his left eye making an X. Drake yells out as he snaps his jaws shut and hisses at her.

Good, now that I got your attention maybe you wanna talk?

They lock eyes and she smiles at him. Drake smiles back and starts to laugh.

IS THAT THE BEST YOU GOT, YOU BITCH!? BECAUSE I'VE SEEN BETTER!

Then I bet you haven't seen THIS!

Mali-Fa turns around fast and throws Drake's knife at one of the guards. It hits him right in the neck causing him to choke on his own blood. At the same time, Drake breaks free of the ropes and lunges at another, why at the same time, having seen everything, Jasper comes out from hiding and jumps on one of the guys and starts punching him. All three attacked the guards till they were down and left one dead. They toss them inside of the cell and lock it, tossing away the keys as Drake limps over to his brother and hugs him.

It's about damn time you found me. I was beginning to wonder if you ever would.

We only just realized what was going on. But what happened?

I would like to know as well, and you can tell us as we go look for the others. Are you able to walk?

Gonna have to. No way you two can carry me. I weigh more than my brother since I'm solid muscle, I am.

He tells her as she hands him his knives back and puts her blouse back on, along with her jacket, and grabs a hold of her tablet. Grunting out, he puts them on and tells them as they start hurrying to get out of there.

Well, when I got your text about Mali-Fa and what Risa was doing to her, and how you asked me to keep an eye on her I did just that. I found her in the command room as she watched y'all on a camera and listened to what you were talking about. Something about a key to some box she was looking for. I stayed when I heard all I needed, I was about to leave when I ran into an old friend of ours, little brother.

Who?

Riptide.

Drake growls out, as he ends up grunting and leans against the wall for support.

WHAT!?

Jasper was shocked to hear this when Mali-Fa looked at Drake.

Who's Riptide?

You mean you don't know? With working with that saber fang and all?

Jasper asks her.

N-No, I don't. Should I? Drake?

Yeah, you should. Because he is EXTREMELY bad news. The bloke is a right bloody killer he is, and not just because he is a great white shark! Risa has him here on the ship and under her rule. He follows her orders. And right now he is on the hunt!

W-What do you mean, Drake?

What I mean, brother. Is that he has a hankering for bite-sized platypus, and that little girl that threw sand in Quick Shot's face is on the menu.

WHAT!?

Both Mali-Fa and Jasper exclaim together.

Oh no, no, no, no, no! This is bad! PRINCE DID YOU GET THAT?! PRINCE! HELLO!? PRINCE! SHIT! HE'S NOT ANSWERING! JASPER WHAT ARE WE TO DO?!

Well for one, try not to panic, because that will do us no good. Two we get the fucking hell out of here before Risa finds us and stops us. But I'm worried about the rest of her men on the ship.

You leave them to me. You two just get to shore.

Agreeing they hurry up and make their way out, they had a few close calls, but thanks to Mali-Fa they end up making it to the second floor of the ship. As they get ready to hit the first floor Prince's voice comes through the comm links.

Come in...can you... guys hear... me?

Prince?! Oh, thank Aurora! We can hear you, but barely.

Mali-Fa tells him as he answers her.

Can...you...hear me…?

Prince? Prince, can you hear us? Shit! I don't think he can hear us.

Not good.

If you...hear me...something...interfering…signal...started... when...you went...further down...to help...Jasper…have...a weak...signal...but...it...good...get...out now...late!...

The signal cuts off to static after that, making the others annoyed.

Well, now we know why we couldn't get him or the others before. Right so far so good. Now we just need to get to the deck and get the hell out of here. How are you holding up, Drake?

Doing better, Jasp. But I won't be happy till we're off this hunk of junk.

Just stick close to me and we'll get out of here. Come on this way will lead us to the back of the deck, and we can get out of here.

Nodding they hurry up all the while Mali-Fa and Jasper try to get a hold of the others, with little luck.

I still can't get through.

Do you suppose Risa found out and is blocking the signal?

It's possible, yes. But something else could be blocking it as well. I just don't know what tho.

Well for now let's just get out of here.

Right. Follow me.

Nodding they follow Mali-Fa and round a corner and head for the loading deck. But as they round another corner, they see Risa and a bunch of her men and back up. Risa looks over tilting her head as she thought she had seen something. But shrugging she goes back to talking to her men. They sigh out relieved as Mali-Fa tries to think of another way out.

This isn't good, if Risa finds you free she will figure out that something is up.

Jasper and Drake try to figure something out. Drake looks around and finally comes up with an idea.

Hey, echidna?

Yeah?

Is that toy of yours, waterproof?

Yes, it is, why?

How long can you hold your breath?

Huh? I don't know how that will help in this situation?

Because we're going swimming.

Drake points over his shoulder at the side of the ship chuckling out. Mali-Fa's and Jasper's eyes lit up seeing where this was going. Nodding Jasper takes hold of Mali-Fa by her waist as she puts her arms around him. Looking around, they jump in and dive underwater. Mali-Fa holds her breath as the two of them swim. They swim for a good five minutes, till they find a safe place to come up and make land. Panting, Mali-Fa falls to her hands and knees regaining her breath.

We're off finally. Thank the Chaos.

Drake says as he falls close by to rest.

Yeah, well try not to relax too much. We're not done yet. We need to get back to the others and fast.

Yes, we need to warn them of…

At the moment a high-pitched scream of a little girl sounds off close by. Looking at where it came from, they get up and run towards it. As they do they hear several voices.

DUKEIE HELP ME! SOMEWON HELP ME! LET ME GO YOU BIG MENERS! DUKEIE! HELP ME!

He he he he...I like them feisty. You're gonna be a tasty little snack.

Mali-Fa and the boy's eyes widen when they realize who the voice belonged to.

It's Anabel-Lee!

Hurrying they burst through the foliage and skid to a stop. Right before them were three people. Two of which were, Duke, and Annabel-lee, and the other was a massive great white shark. Duke roars out as he picks up a nearby stick and holds it up and goes after the shark.

LET MY SISTER GO YOU MONSTER!

Huh?

The shark looks over and sees him coming. He chuckles out as he lifts his free hand and backhands him, and sends him flying into a bush.

DUKEIE NO! HOWS DARS YOU HURT MY BUBBAS! YOU'LL PAY FOR DAT!

And who's gonna make me? You?

Yes!

Heh, I'd like to see you try, kid. But don't worry, he and your whole family will be joining me for dinner very soon. Right now Risa wants you. So why don't we go say hi?

He looks at her with a wide toothy smile as he licks his lips. Annabel-lee starts to whimper and struggles to get free with little luck. Just as he was about to lick her, Jasper yells out at him.

LET HER GO RIPTIDE!

Huh?

Riptide looks to his left and chuckles out.

Well, well, well. Long time no see, Jasper old friend. Say how's your mother doing? Oh…Right...I forgot... I killed her and your whole family why you were still eggs. He he he he…

Before Jasper knows what was going on, Drake roars out as he charges Riptide and slams into him hard. He wraps his arms around him and forces him down into the sand, and makes him drop Anabel-Lee.

HURRY KID! RUN NOW!

ANABEL-LEE OVER HERE!

Jasper runs towards her as she looks up and sees him. She runs to him as Drake and Riptide struggle.

GIVE IT UP RIPTIDE! YOU'RE GOING DOWN THIS TIME!

NOT ON YOUR LIFE!

Riptide roars out and manages to break free of his hold and sends him flying into the bushes. He gets up fast and runs after Anabel-lee and right at the last second, he grabs her and holds her up out of Jasper's reach and sends him flying back as well and close to his brother. Mali-Fa yells out and runs over to the both of them to make sure they were alright.

Nice try you two, but not happening. I was promised this little snack and her whole family afterward. Now if you don't mind it's about time I headed back to Risa. But just to make sure you don't follow me…

Chuckling out, he holds up his left hand and snaps his fingers. As they groan out and hold themselves up, the waters start moving and several more sea Mobian's show up. Each one looked nastier than the last.

Crikey, I think we're done for.

He he he he….Alright, boys and girls, show my old friends here we mean business. I need to get back to Risa. But don't kill them, or the platypus understand!? I want the pleasure of doing that myself. After all, I need to reunite Drake, and Jasper with their real family, and as for the platypus, I was already promised him and his family.

What about the echidna, boss?

Do whatever you like with her. I'm sure Risa won't mind in the least. She is a traitor after all. And anyone who betrays the Boss and the New Eggman Empire needs to be dealt with.

Riptides men chuckle out as they slowly move in on them.

Oh, this isn't good.

Y'think Sheila?

Drake tells her as they get up ready for a fight.

Mali-Fa get Duke and get the hell out of here now. Go warn Bella and the others.

I can't leave you guys here alone to fight them!

You have no choice! NOW GO!

Jasper yells out at her and pushes her aside as he puts his hands into his pockets and pulls them out with his black brass knuckles on. Drake pulls out two of his knives and roars out as he follows his brother, slashing at a betta fish. But she stops him as she holds up her spear and they push back at one another trying to gain ground. Jasper was in a fight with another shark and managed to hit him dead on the face as he swung his tail around knocking two more that were coming after him away. As Riptide's men deal with Jasper and Drake, he turns around and leaves. He walks into the water as Anabel-lee screams out.

HELP ME!

NO! ANABEL-LEE! LET HER GO RIPTIDE!

Jasper screams out as he fights off several of Riptides' men. Grunting out as he throws them off, only to be jumped on by several more.

DRAKE, GET ANNABEL-LEE!

I'D LOVE TO BUT I'M A BIT TIED UP RIGHT NOW!

Watching from afar, Mali-Fa backs up. She screams out as one of the sharks sees her and comes after her.

Hello, Luv. Fancy meeting you here? I think I'll have some fun with you before I eat you….HE HE HE HE HE HAHAHAHAAAAA!

Growling out, Mali-Fa attacks him as best as she could with no weapons on hand. She sends punches and kicks at him but it does little good. He soon overtakes her and sends her flying where she ends up landing next to a slowly waking Duke. Mali-Fa sees this and looks at the shark coming their way. Panicking, she shakes him awake just as the shark jumps at them. Finally snapping out of it, he sees the shark and grabs hold of Mali-Fa, and rolls them out of the way in time as his spear comes down into the sand. Growling, he looks over as Mali-Fa grabs a hold of Duke and they get up and make a run for it.

GET BACK HERE RIGHT NOW!

Both run into the jungle as the shark and several others run after them. One of them throws their spear at them and it hits Mali-Fa on her side. Screaming out, she falls over and holds her side. Duke skids to a stop and turns around and grabs her hand and pulls her up as they start running once again. Duke leads her through the jungle and to a tree hollow where they hide out catching their breath.

A-are you alright?!

Y-yeah.

W-what is going on? Who are those sharks!? Why do they want my little sister!?

Mali-Fa looks at Duke and she can see how scared and worried for his sister he was. As she adjusts, she flinches and hisses.

Oh Chaos, you're hurt!

It's just a scratch, I'll be fine.

It's not just a scratch!

Duke takes off his vest and his silk shirt and starts ripping up his silk shirt. He tells her to remove her jacket and blouse so he could look at the wound.

Oh shit, that's deep.

Does your mother know you use such language?

Duke looks at her and blushed as he sets to work wrapping her wound up.

I won't tell if you don't?

Mali-Fa chuckles out but winces out smiling as she places her hand on his shoulder.

Don't worry I think in this kind of situation she would allow it. But your secret is safe with me.

She winks at him and he smiles.

Do you think you can still run?

Yeah, but it will be slow going. But we need to get back to your brother, mother, and father. Tell me, is Elizabeth-Ann safe?

Yeah, she is.

How did this happen?

It's a long story, kid. But short of it is your mother has something Risa wants, and she is willing to do anything to get it.

What about the sharks and my little sister?

Don't worry, I promise we'll get her back before it's too late.

What does he want with her?! She's just a baby still!

Duke starts to panic as he starts to hyperventilate. Mali-Fa places a hand on his shoulder as he looks at her with his deep midnight blue eyes scared.

Easy Duke. Come on now, take a deep breath and calm down. Panicking will do us or your sister no good.

He nods and does as he is told.

Listen, kid, I'm not going to sugarcoat this, but that shark that took your sister wants to eat not only her but your whole family. He was promised you and your family for the key your mother wears around her neck.

I've seen that key before. Mother guards it like it's extremely special to her.

Not just her, but the whole of the planet kid.

WHAT!? Do you know how stupid that sounds!?

I know, kid, I know. but I'm sure even you have heard stories of King Sonic's adventures, haven't you?

I-I have yes.

Then you know anything is possible.

Sighing he closes his eyes and nods.

Then what…

Mali-Fa covers his mouth and pulls him further into the hollow and puts a finger to her mouth to let him know to be quiet. He nods as they see two sets of feet at the entrance of the hallow.

Where did they go!

I don't know but they can't be far! I know I hit the echidna! But this part of the jungle is dense so it's hard trying to find the blood.

One of them growls out, as he sniffs the air. His friend does the same as they try to find them. One of them turns around yelling at his friend.

ANY LUCK!

He yells out to the others as they answer.

NOTHING!

THEIR CLOSE BY I CAN SMELL THE BLOOD FROM THE ECHIDNA! SPREAD OUT AND LOOK FOR THEM!

The two in front of them move away from the hollow and Mali-Fa pokes her head out and looks around. Duke does the same, and slowly moves out of the hollow and moves some leaves out of his way to see where they were. There were around ten in total looking for them.

Not good. That is too many for us to try and take on and not come out with a few new scars. And I get the feeling if anything happens to you, your mother will haunt me even in the afterlife. There has GOT to be a way out of this.

I think I know of a way. I know these jungles like the back of my hand. Come on this way.

Nodding at him, they turn around and slowly move. As they move about Duke accidentally steps on a twig and it snaps. Wincing out he and Mali-Fa look over their shoulder as they hear someone yell out.

THEY'RE OVER THIS WAY HURRY!

Shit! GO GO GO GO! RUN FOR IT DUKE!

Standing up he makes a run for it as Mali-Fa follows him holding her side the whole time, they pant as they jump over rocks, and fallen logs, all the while the sharks run after them throwing their spears at them. One of them comes close to hitting Duke, but Mali-Fa acts fast and jumps him, knocking him to the ground as it goes whizzing by. Panting out, she looks behind her and gets up, pulling him with her and pushing him in front of her. As they run, a spear whizzes by and nicks Mali-Fa's shoulder, making her cry out, and falls to her knees and holds it. Duke looks behind him and runs back for her but she waves him away yelling at him.

HURRY RUN! GO NOW!

WHAT ABOUT YOU!? I CAN'T LEAVE YOU BEHIND!

JUST GO, I'M RIGHT BEHIND YOU!

NO! I'M NOT LEAVING YOU BEHIND!

Duke pulls at her and she struggles to get up. They managed to get up just at the last second as a shark jumps out of the foliage and brings her sword down where they were just moments ago. Growling, she looks at them, as Duke kicks her hard in the face and sends her flying back.

YOU'LL PAY FOR THAT KID!

Not wasting a moment he grabs Mali-Fa's hand and they run for it. The shark rubs her chin as more of her friends come out of the bushes and run after them. They kept running for as long as they could. Looking behind them they could see that they were catching up to them.

I hate to say this, but I think they turned into a frenzy!

I agree so let's get moving!

Picking up speed they keep running till Duke points out some light ahead of them. Mali-Fa nods and they head for it. As they burst through the bushes more and more spears come flying as they look behind them they see that even more sharks had come for them.

Shit, just how many are there!?

I don't know but I don't want to find out!

GET DOWN RIGHT NOW!

Huh?

Mali-Fa and Duke skid to a stop at hearing someone yell at them. As they stop Mali-Fa sees something shining from the bushes and she jumps at Duke once again knocking him down as someone yells out…

DEVIL'S ARROWS!

Several gunshots go off as bullets go flying by and split apart and head right for the shark frenzy. Several of them get hit but most manage to keep moving right for Mali-Fa and Duke. Not wasting a moment, they get up and make a run for it as more gunshots sound off and Quick Shot jumps out of the foliage with Bella right behind him welding her bladed tonfas. Roaring out, Bella attacks thee sharks at once. They fight back as she yells out and sends deadly slashes their way. She crosses her arms as she blocks their attack and manages to kick one of them in the gut and forces her back. But at the same time, she ends up locked together with another one. Grunting out as several more jump her, she pushes the one she was locked with off her as she swings her tonfas around in a wide circle forcing them to back off. At the same time, Quick Shot jumps up and over the frenzy and goes back to back with Bella. Both pant as they attack every one of them that comes at them. Steal clashes with one another, as gunshots go off from Quick Shot as he shoots at the sharks. Quick Shot shoots round after round, why Bella does her best to keep them at bay with her tonfas. Even Duke and Mali-Fa were trying their best to fight them off with whatever they could get their hands on, but it was becoming apparent that they were outnumbered. But even still they keep fighting.

Quick Shot I don't know how much longer we can hold them off! It's like we take down three and ten more pop up! HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE!?

I don't know but we have to keep trying! Mali-Fa where are Jasper and Drake!?

Back at the beach, fighting more of them.

We need to help them! He took my sister!

WHAT!?

Both Bella and Quick Shot say together as Bella lets her guard down for a split second and ends up getting hit and sent flying back. She screams out as Quick Shot shoots at the one who hit her, killing her on the spot. Bella groans out as Quick Shot runs to her side. Mali-Fa and Duke run to them, helping them.

What are we going to do Mr. Quick Shot, sir?! There are too many of them!

Duke's right, I don't know how much longer I can last right now with my side wound opened like this. I'm bleeding out fast and everything is starting to become fuzzy.

Not to say I'm running out of ammo myself.

Then there is only one thing we can do.

Bella?

RUUUUN!

Digging her heels in, she turns around and starts running. The others take the hint and start running for their lives.

Somewhere up in the darkening skies… 20:00 hours…

Thanks a lot for the lift, Tails. It's been ages since I've been in the old girl.

Hehe! No problem buddy. I'm glad I ran into you. I've missed you, big guy.

Same. So how's the family doing?

Mina is doing amazing, and Melody is on tour right now with her band. As for Skye, last I heard he was with Eris helping her out with G.U.N.

At the mention of G.U.N, his passenger scoffs.

Oh come on, Knuckles, I know you don't like them much, but it is what it is.

Even still, there are way better job options than joining G.U.N.

Hey if it helps any, he works on G.U.N's Extreme Gear Team. With his knowledge of them, thanks to my teaching over the years, and then some, he wanted to do something good for others. and G.U.N pays well.

Isn't that the one with that Belladonna girl?

Eris? Yeah, she's the five-time world grand PRIX Champion. AKA The Crystal Queen.

You know I haven't seen her in any races for a while?

Yeah, but I got a call from Skye the other day, and he told me everything.

Oh?

Yeah… She's...going through a lot right now. And none of it is good. She recently lost her father no thanks to Ivan, and Skye has told me it changed her. I'm worried about her.

Wasn't her father the late General or something? I mean I may not like G.U.N but I do keep up to date with things.

Yeah, he was. Ivan attacked Central City a few months back and they were deployed to take care of him. But during the fight, Ivan attacked a G.U.N missile and sent it AWOL. She, Shadow…

SHADOW!? Now that's a name I haven't heard in some time.

Heh, yeah. Anyway… Hey, what's that?

Tails looks over the side of the plane and angle it so they can get a better look. Knuckles looks over and they see a hoard of Sharks running after a group of people.

That can't be good.

Tails states as he angles the Tornado once more.

Yeah...wait...DUKE!?

Knuckles narrows his eyes as he sees that one of the people running was a light lavender platypus. It looked like he was helping a female echidna and with them a weasel wolf, and vixen.

SHIT! IT IS HIM! TAILS HURRY!

ON IT!

Tails pushed forward on the stick and the Tornado goes faster. Knuckles meanwhile unbuckles and grabs his bag and climbs onto the wing of the plane. He kneels holding on as his dreadlocks blow around him. His eyes narrow to deadly slits as he concentrates as he yells down to tails.

ON MY MARK!

RIGHT!

They fly closer and Knuckles yells out.

NOW!

Tails angles the Tornado's nose down and sends it into a deadly nose dive. He turns the joystick at the last second and sends Knuckles flying off the wings and right at the shark hoard. Tails pulled up and away to turn back around, leaving everything in Knuckles' hands.

GAIA'S FISSURE!

Knuckles flips over and balls his fist up and slams it into the ground. The ground beneath everyone shakes as the ground cracks open and sends the sharks flying. They scream out as Duke and the others fall. They look over their shoulders, and Duke's eyes light up at seeing who had come to their rescue.

UNCLE KNUCKLES!

Knuckles barely glances at him as he slowly stands up and punches his fist together growling.

Alright you lot, that is enough out of you. You've gone and messed with the wrong people.

One of them, the one from before that had started the chase, groans out as he looks up growling.

Who the hell are you?!

I guess you don't get out much do you? The names Knuckles. Knuckles the Echidna. I'm the Chief of the Knuckles tribe and guardian to Angel Island.

The shark gnashes his teeth together as he and the rest get up. They pick up the weapons they dropped, and get ready for a fight.

You've messed with the wrong frenzy, Echidna. We'll take you down with the rest of them.

I'd like to see your try.

GET HIM NOW! AND REMEMBER KILL THE OTHERS BUT LEAVE THE PLATYPUS ALIVE!

Knuckles roars out as he heads into frenzy. He takes sharks out left and right, barely breaking a sweat. Meanwhile, Duke and the others back off trying to hold off any that broke through him. But as they keep being forced back Mali-Fa yells out as she is backhanded by a shark and ends up passing out from it due to blood loss.

MALI-FA, NO!

Duke pushes a shark off him and runs to her, shaking her awake!

Mali-Fa wake up! Come on! WAKE UP! QUICK SHOT HELP!

Growling, Quick Shot decks a shark twice his size and runs to help him. He picks up Mali-Fa and runs for it with Bella right next to him, and Duke on his other side. As they run, Knuckles roars out as he pushes around twenty sharks who had piled up on him off him and runs for it, following them. But they soon skid to a stop when they reached the edge of the cliff. Looking down, rocks crumble and fall as the frenzy slowly moves in. The waters below crash against sharp-looking rocks making Duke gulp as they turn around ready to fight if they had to.

U-Uncle K-Knuckles what are we to do!?

Duke asks him, hiding behind him.

When I say, jump.

WHAT!? ARE YOU CRAZY YOU STUPID ECHIDNA! WE'LL DIE!

Quick Shot yells at him.

Trust me.

NO WAY IN HELL WE'LL SURVIVE THAT!

I trust you.

BELLA!?

It's fine, baby. I know we can trust him. Tikal has…

TIKAL!?

Knuckles looks over his shoulder at her, but looks back and punches a shark that was bold enough to try and take them on.

I know I'm going to regret this, but I trust you, baby. But what about Mali? She's out cold.

Knuckles looks over his right shoulder and for the first time, he sees her.

Do I even want to know what a sub-boss is doing here?

Knuckles, Mail-Fa is nice, but her boss isn't. They have Anabel-lee! HE WANTS TO EAT HER AND THE REST OF MY FAMILY!

Who does?!

THEIR BOSS DOES!

Duke points at the shark frenzy who had closed in more. But lucky at the moment Knuckles smiles and punches his fist together and smiles.

Get ready.

Huh?

GAIA'S FISSURE!

Once again, Knuckles runs and jumps into the air and balls his fist up, and slams it into the ground. Again the ground shakes and the sharks fall over. Not wasting a moment, Knuckles turns on his heels and grabs a hold of Duke, and yells out.

NOW! JUMP NOW!

Not wasting a moment, they all jump over the edge screaming out. The Sharks get up and run to the edge of the cliff and skid to a halt as the Tornado zooms up and by them with Tails laughing. Everyone holds onto the wing of the plane as he flies off. Tails angle the plane so that it evens out and they head to the back of the island. With everyone safe, Knuckles helps put Mali-Fa in the passengers' seat and looks at the rest with a shake of his head. After a bit, Tails finally lands the plane and they jump down from the wing as Knuckles gets Mali-fa. He holds her bridal style and looks down at her with a heavy sad sigh. He jumps from the plane and follows the others, they hurry and lead him through the back and to the lab where they burst through the doors. When they entered, Titania was ready to attack as was Zachery, and Prince, but when they saw who it was that entered, they were relieved. Duke runs to his mother crying as she holds her arms open and hugs him.

OH, DUKE! Oh, my sweet, sweet little puggle, you're back home!

Mom! I'm fine, I promise.

But what happened to you? Where is your sister?

Duke looks up at her as tears spill over as he told her.

I-I t-tried mom, I really did! We were...o-on our way back when he came! He came out o-of nowhere! He is super fast and strong! And...And he took me and Anabel-lee by surprise! I tried to fight him off but I couldn't! B-but then the croc brothers came and Mali-Fa...OH MOM SHE TRIED TO SAVE ME BUT NOW SHE'S HURT BADLY BECAUSE OF ME! SHE TOLD ME TO RUN BUT I COULDN'T LEAVE HER BEHIND!

What!?

It was then that Knuckles walked in with Mail-Fa. Titania gently moves Duke to the side and hurries over to check on her.

Oh, Mali-Fa!? W-What happened!

Prince hurries over to help lay her down on an empty table, he takes off his vest and folds it up, and lays it under her head as Duke goes on.

S-She tried to save me, Prince...when...when that huge shark came out of nowhere. Her and the croc brothers! B-But he had more sharks with him...and...and they attacked us...one of them threw a spear at us as we…as we ran and it hit her side badly. I-I tried to patch it up as best as I could...but...but she...OH PRINCE SHE CAN'T DIE! SHE SAVED ME AND SHE CAN'T DIE! SHE JUST CAN'T!

Prince looks at his little brother horrified, as he clings to him crying. Scared himself, he wraps his arms around his brother as he cries into his midsection. His beak opens and closes as he looks at Mali-Fa's still body, unable to talk.

Oh, Mali-Fa you stupid bitch! I told you to come back to us alive, not dead!

She's not dead yet, Titania. But she will be soon if we don't get that wound patched up.

Quick Shot tells her.

That wound is bad and deep. But I think I can patch it up. Duke, I need you to go and get the First-Aid kit.

B-But I don't want to leave her, mom!

I know, but right now she needs our help! HURRY!

Reluctant, Duke finally runs out of his father's lab and runs off to go get the First-Aid kit as fast as he could.

I'll go with him and bring you some hot water.

Hurry, I don't know how much longer she has.

Nodding Bella runs out of the lab and back to the main house to get her some water. Titania sets to work taking off her jacket and blouse as Dr. Starline hands her a pair of scissors to cut her tank top, and make-shift bandages to get a better look at her wound.

Duke wasn't kidding when he said that spear cut her deeply. This is really bad.

Can you patch her up, Titania?

Knuckles asks her.

Yes, but the wound needs to be cleaned and stitched up. But it looks like she lost a lot of blood, and there is no telling if she will make it or not, not without a possible blood transfusion. Prince, go find me some clean gloves to use and bring me clean towels if you can from the bathroom.

Right away, mother.

Prince hurries off to go find the things his mother needed, and anything else. After a bit, he comes back at the same time as Bella and Duke do.

Alright, stand back and let me work.

They all back off as Knuckles lets out a heavy sigh and folds his arms and looks at the rest annoyed.

Alright, start talking. What is going on around here? And I want the truth. Starting with you, Vixen.

Knuckles growls out as he narrows his eyes unamused with Bella and none too happy.

How do you know Tikal?

Looking at Quick shot and the others, she sighs out and looks back at him.

Because we are sharing the same body right now. It all started yesterday…

As Bella tells Knuckles what happened, Titania cleans and patches up Mali-Fa. By the time Titania was finished, Bella was nearing the end of what happened as Zachery showed him the drawing. Upon seeing it, he sighs and shakes his head.

That explains a lot right now, and what happened with the Chaos Emerald I found and brought with me.

You brought one with you?!

Everyone looks at Knuckles shocked. He takes the sachet off and opens it up and pulls out the blue emerald. Everyone gaps out as Bella's deep green eyes narrow. A glow takes over her body and Tikal takes over and Bella's green eyes turn Blue indicating that it was now Tikal in control.

YOU BROUGHT IT WITH YOU, YOU MORON!

Tikal?!

WHO ELSE YOU BIG DUMMY! YOU SHOULD HAVE LEFT IT BACK ON THE ISLAND WHERE IT WOULD HAVE BEEN SAFE!

How was it to know at the time!? I only just found this before coming here. Or Mace did.

MACE!?

Yeah, when he went to Lake Nessie he found it and told me what happened. When I took it out myself the skies grew dark and it started to storm, even the Master Emerald flared to life and shot a beam of light up into the sky. I asked Saber, and Specter if they knew anything, and they said they never heard of such a thing. But they said they would talk it over with the others of the brotherhood and dig into the archives and give me a call if they found anything.

I see.

Had I known sooner, Tikal, you know I would have left it behind.

It's fine, I forgive you, Knuckles. But now that it is down here, I fear for the Master Emerald and all on our island home. The prophecy that Prince told us, said something about the Angel's Home in the sky. There is only one Island up there, and that's Angel Island. Meaning it will end up being attacked, but we don't know when.

Right now I'm more worried about getting my little girl back. Not to say Jasper and his brother.

SHIT! I forgot about them. We need to hurry and…

Quick Shot curses out as a knock sounds on the door and everyone looks at one another. They hear the door open and close and right away, Knuckles puts the Chaos Emerald away and hides it as Tikal lets Bella have her body once again. As they wait, one of Risa's men walks in and clears his throat.

Egg-Boss Risa wishes to see all of you now. She said that if you don't come, you can kiss your little girl goodbye. The same goes with the weasel wolf and vixen. If you don't come, the crocs will be on Riptides' dinner menu. You have five minutes to meet up with her, or they get it.

Everyone looks at one another worried. Knuckles steps up and folds his arms looking down at the grunt.

Tell Risa we'll be there soon. But someone needs to stay with Mali-Fa and watch over her.

And who are you?

Knuckles. Knuckles the Echidna, Chief to the Knuckles tribe, and guardian to Angel Island.

Is that so? Ain't you a little far from home, guardian?

Even if I am, that doesn't mean I left my Island unguarded.

I'll stay with Mali-Fa and watch over her, why the rest of you try and save Anabel-lee and the croc brothers.

Are you sure about Tails?

Yeah, you know I'm not much for fighting anymore.

Alright, but be ready for anything.

I will.

Nodding, he tells the grunt to take them to Risa. He leads them to where she was and upon arrival, she chuckles. Her golden eyes shine in the last of the setting sun, as she stood there with her hands behind her back. Her grunt walks off to the side as Knuckles, Bella, and Quick Shot sand in front of Prince, Duke, Zachery, and Titania.

Alright, you blasted Saber Fang, we're here. Now, where are Drake, and Jasper at?!

Quick Shot asks her as he readies his guns. Bella follows suit and readies her tonfas.

Ah, Mr. Quick Shot, and Miss Bella, thank you for coming. But who is this?

Risa looks Knuckles up and down narrowing her eyes at him.

I'm Knuckles The Echidna.

Ah, So you are the Guardian I've heard so much about. How lovely. I take it you know what is going on then?

Yeah, they filled me in, and I'm warning you right now that if you don't give back my niece, you will be sorry. I'm not the kind of Echidna you wanna mess with.

Knuckles crack his knuckles letting out a low growl. Not in the least bit intimidated, Risa holds her ground.

Yes, well, once I get what I want, you can have her, and the croc brothers.

Growling, Quick Shot points a gun at her.

Where are they, bitch. You better not have hurt my mates, or so help me…

Calm yourself, Mr. Quick Shot. For the time being, they're fine. But they won't be if you don't do as I say.

Risa snaps her fingers and a crane on the ship comes to life and moves over the waters where below it something swims around waiting for it to drop what it was holding onto. Everyone looks up and gaps as they see Jasper, Drake, and Anabel-lee tied up together and in the steel jaws of a claw. Both Jasper and Drake looked like they went a few rounds with a meat grinder, and little Anabel-lee was crying trying to get free.

ANABEL-LEE!

WHAT?! MOMMY! MOMMY HELP ME! DADDY, UNKIE KNUKIES HELP!

YOU MONSTER, RISA! JUST WAIT TILL I GET MY HANDS ON YOU!

Titania steps forward ready to attack her when she snaps her fingers. Anabel-lee screams as the rope is suddenly released and she, Drake, and Jasper fall.

NO!

Titania stops in her tracks and Risa snaps her fingers once again, and the one controlling the crane stops them from falling just ten feet up from the water and pulls them back up as a massive great white shark jumps up out of the water trying to get at them.

As you can see, I have a very hungry pet that needs to eat. And he has a hankering for crocodiles and Platypus. Now I promised him this rare treat, so long as I get that key you have around your neck, Titania.

Titania reaches up and grabs a hold of the spot where the key was hidden. Fearing for her daughter's life she backs up.

I can't give it to you, Risa!

Is that so? Then I take it your daughter's life means nothing to you?

Risa holds up her arm again getting ready to snap her fingers when Titania screams out.

STOP! I'LL DO IT! I'LL HAND THE KEY OVER, JUST LET MY DAUGHTER AND THE OTHERS GO!

Risa stops and chuckles out darkly.

That is more like it.

I-I'll give it to you once they're on land. But not a moment sooner!

Sorry, but you forget who you're dealing with. Either give me the key right now, or Riptide gets his dinner. Your choice…

Back inside…

Tails was watching over Mali-Fa, he takes a cool rag and places it on her forehead. With a heavy sigh, he looks around the place and sees that the computer was left on. Curious he goes over to it and types away at it, finding the files from the night before he looks into them. He soon finds the prophecy and reads it over, curious about it.

Blood moon huh? But what about this bit about a race? It doesn't make sense? Why would the emeralds go dark then?

Tails thinks out as he types away at the computer. As he does, his left ear turns to the sound of moaning. Turning around and sees Mali-Fa waking up.

You're awake!

Ooh...where...am I?

You're in Dr. Starline's lab right now.

Mali-Fa tries to get up and Tails stops her.

Easy now, just lay back down before you open your wound up again.

What?

Mali-Fa looks at him confused as she looks down and sees new clean bandages wrapped around her. She stares at them when everything comes back to her. Sitting up fast she screams out in pain as Tails helps her.

H-HEY! I told you to take it easy!

DUKE!? WHER'S ARE DUKE AND THE OTHERS!?

Don't worry they're safe...I hope…

Mali-Fa looks at and tilts her head.

You...HOPE! What happened?!

Sighing Tails tells her.

You blacked out due to blood loss when the shark frenzy attacked you. Knuckles…

KNUCKLES!? THE GUARDIAN IS HERE?!

Yes. Please, won't you calm down!? Everything is fine, Knuckles has it under control! He's gone to save Anabel-lee and the others.

WHAT!? NO NO NO NO NO!

What is wrong!?

RISA IS WHAT IS WRONG! SHE WILL KILL THEM THE MOMENT TITANIA GIVES HER THAT KEY!

WHAT! NO!

Thinking fast, Tails leaves Mali-Fa and rushes out of the lab. Once outside, he Jumps into the air and twists his tails together, and flies off. Hoping he wasn't too late. As he nears he could see Knuckles and the others, gritting his teeth together, he spots three people hanging above the waters. Hovering he comes up with a plan. Narrowing his eyes, he flies to the back of the ship where he wouldn't be seen and looks down at it.

Three guards guarding this side of the ship, and three more guarding the crane, with one inside. If I try something funny, that guy will hit the button letting the chain go and drop them into the waters, and what I am assuming to be a shark. Not good. Man if Mina ever finds out about what I'm about to do, she'll skin me alive and force me to sleep on the sofa for the next month. But I have no choice. I need to save them.

Finally coming up with a plan, he goes down and gets ready. He lands and looks around the corner and sees the three men from before. Nodding, he pokes his head around and whistles out.

Yahoo! Over here fellas!

Huh? HEY! WHO ARE YOU!?

Come and get me, guys!

Growling, they run after him, but as they turn the corner they see he is gone.

What in the world? Where did he go!?

Not sure but...GAH!…

One of the men grunts out as he goes down. The other two look around trying to find where Tails was, but as they do, another one ends up hitting the decks having been knocked out cold. The last one growls and holds up his gun.

ALRIGHT, COME OUT RIGHT NOW AND SHOW YOURSELF!

Look up stupid!

Huh?

As the guy looks up he gets hit with a foot smashed right in the face. The guy goes down and Tails uses his wrench and hits him in the head and knocks him out cold. Grunting, grabs a hold of them and drags them off, and ties them up with some rope he found nearby. He takes out some duct tape from the pouch he had on his belt and tapes their mouths up.

Right. Now that's done I just need to get rid of the other three and the one controlling the crane. Trying to get those four won't be easy… unless…

Tails looks over and gets a wicked idea. Taking one of the Jackets off the grunts, he puts it on and hides his goggles in the pocket, and sets to work. Messing up his hair and making himself look like he was in a fight he runs around the corner and yells out.

HELP! I NEED HELP RIGHT NOW!

Huh? What's going on! What's wrong!?

The ship is on fire! Look!

Tails points to where he had come from and they see smoke coming from that direction. Their eyes widen as two of the men go running why one stays behind to guard his friend and the crane. Tails leads the way and tells them what happened. But as they round the corner, they look around, their guns at the ready when they spot the smoke.

Hey, wait a moment? I thought you said…

One of the men turns around only to be met with a wrench in the face. He was sent flying and into a poll. The other one sees this and turns around to shoot at Tails, but Tails was faster and he sends him flying back with his trademarks, and jumps up and punches him. He knocks him out and like the other three he ties them up, and tapes their mouths shut. Panting, he takes a moment to try and catch his breath.

Right five down, and two to go. But I need to be…

HEY! WHAT IS GOING ON HERE!

Shit.

Tails looked behind him, seeing the last guard he needed to take down. When he sees his friends tied up and gagged he holds up his gun and glares at Tails. Tails chuckle out sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head.

Hey… I know this looks bad...but I got a very good explanation...for this...heh…

Oh you do, do you? Well, It better be a good one, to make the boss not kill...hey wait a moment? Don't I know you?

Ah...No?

No, I'm sure of it. I know I've seen you someplace be...for...THAT'S IT!

His eyes widen when he realizes it.

YOU'RE MILES…

But before he could finish what he was saying, like all his buddies, he was knocked out cold via a wrench to the face. Sighing, Tails grabs him and ties him up, and gags him.

Right now that's done I just…

NOOOOO! ANABEL-LEE!

Tails looked over his shoulder as he heard screaming and ran to where the crane was. He gaps out as he sees that the claw holding them had been let go, and taking action he jumps into the air and zooms off as fast as he can.

MOOOOMYYYYY!

YOU MONSTER, RISA!

Knuckles roars out as he charges her. But her men attack him and he dives down into the sand as the others duck for cover as guns go off.

I'M COMING! HOLD ON!

WHAT!?

Risa looks behind her as Tails zooms in and grabs a hold of the rope and manages to fly up at the last second as Riptide jumps out of the water only to have his next meal ripped away from him.

TAILS!

FORGET THEM! GET THAT BLASTED FOX DOWN NOW!

Her men do as they are told and start shooting at Tails, and the others.

WAAAH!

Tails maneuvers out of the way trying not to get hit while carrying Anabel-lee and the croc brothers. Grunting out, Knuckles roars out as he slams his fist into the ground causing a fissure to open up, and knocks Risa and her men down. Tails looked down and he saw Knuckles looking up at him and smiled. Knuckles holds a hand to the side of his mouth and yells up at him as he points to his left.

GET THEM SOMEPLACE SAFE! WE'LL TAKE CARE OF THE REST HERE!

GOT IT, KNUCKLES!

Tails banks right and he flies off with them and to a safe place. Meanwhile, Knuckles and the rest of Risa's men start fighting. But thanks to Knuckles the fight ends up in their favor. After about fifteen minutes Risa yells out to her men.

FALL BACK NOW! I GOT WHAT I WANTED, NOW LET'S GO! WE'LL TELL IVAN OF THIS ONCE WE'RE BACK!

Grunting out, they do as they're told. The ship closes it's bay doors and pulls out. Knuckles, Quick Shot, and Bella skid to a stop at the water's edge and glare at Risa as she leaves. As they watch, Riptide jumps up onto the ship and walks over to her growling. Pissed he had his meal taken from him.

THIS ISN'T OVER WEASEL WOLF! I'LL GET THOSE CROC BROTHERS SOONER OR LATER! AND WHEN I DO, I'LL MAKE YOU WATCH AS I EAT THEM ALIVE! AH AH HA HA HA HAAAAAAAA!

Growling, Quick Shot narrows his eyes and holds his guns up, and points them right at Riptide.

Not on my watch, you won't. THERE IS NO WAY I'LL LET YOU HURT MY SONS, YOU BASTARD!

Quick Shot!?

Bella looks at him in shock as she sees the pure deadly glare in his eyes and tears well up. Her eyes widen and she gasps out and backs up. Knuckles takes notice and backs up as well. Sensing something was about to happen. Yelling out, Quick Shot powers up his guns and yells out…

YOU WILL NEVER LAY YOUR FILTHY HANDS ON MY SONS EVER AGAIN! YOU HAVE HURT THEM FOR THE LAST TIME! HADES WRATH!

He pulls the triggers to his gun and a huge bullet shoots off and heads right for Riptide. Risa sees this and manages to jump out of the way in time as it comes for him. Riptide doesn't see it coming till it was too late. It hits him dead on and he screams out as black flames take hold of him and engulf him. Within mere moments he was burned alive. His burnt corpse stood there for a moment till it fell over and into the sea. Panting hard, he scoffs out and blows the smoke off his guns, and holsters them. Turning around he starts walking off but looks over his shoulder one last time as he sees Risa standing there. Their eyes locked, and he knew right then and there that he had a new mission in store for him. And that would be to take down Risa Germory by any means necessary. Looking ahead, he walks off to where he saw Tails go and heads for him. Bella and the others look on, watching him walk off when they hear something behind him. They take a fighting pose only to be relieved when they see it was Mali-Fa. She looks at them confused and tilts her head.

A-are they alright?

ANABEL-LEE OH MY CHAOS! I ALMOST FORGOT!

Titania turns around and runs off as Dr. Starline, Prince and Duke follow behind her. Mali-Fa holds her side and winces in pain and starts to fall but she catches herself on a tree trunk and holds herself up. Bella runs to her side and helps her.

You should be resting, Mali-Fa. You're still hurt badly.

I know but I had to come and make sure Anabel-lee was alright. When that fox ran out of there so fast I knew it would be bad!

Don't worry yourself too much. Tails managed to save them at the last second.

Huh?

Mali-Fa looks up as she sees Knuckles walking over to them. He stops and folds his arms as he looks down at her, his eyes narrowed giving him a near menacing look. Mali-Fa looks up at him and shy's away a bit and looks away.

Before you say anything, I know I have a lot to atone for, and I promise I will. I've disgraced my tribe and it's name, and I'm sorry. But you have to understand…

I'll be expecting you back on the island and at my side as my advisor when this is done and over with, Mali-Fa.

Wait?! What!?

Knuckles scoffs as he smiles at her and walks off.

But I don't understand!?

Knuckles stops and lets out a sigh as he folds a hand on his hip and looks at her.

Alabaster is gone, Mali. I made sure he is never coming back again. I sent him to the No Zone prison over five years ago when I took over as our tribe's leader. Now come on. Let's go see the others.

W-Wait! W-What about my Sister? And...and my best friend! HE...he...OH, CHAOS!

Mali-Fa starts to panic as the memories come back. Knuckles sees this and walks over to her, placing a hand on her shoulder. She looked up at him and she could see a smile on his face.

They've become extremely close over the years. Truth be told, their Soul Bonded to one another, and a guy named Hawkins is expecting their first child soon. Hawkins has been spoiling them rotten ever since he joined them. He is madly in love with both of them, and he's going to make a wonderful father, and I think Mia-Fa and Gina-Ko would love it if you were around now that Alabaster is gone for good.

Oh…

Mali-Fa couldn't speak, she was so happy she was now forever free of her ex. But then she remembered about her parents.

W-What of my mother and father?

I took action against them for adding in Alabaster's plans. They knew what he was like, but went through with it. As of right now, they're also in No Zone Prison as well.

Mali-Fa could feel her knees becoming weak. She slowly knees to the ground crying. Bella holds her looking up at Knuckles and smiles at him.

Thank you. You have no idea how scared she was when Risa said she would call him if she told Ivan about how she was pregnant. I've never seen someone so scared to the point their fur goes nearly white.

Knuckles nods and walks off.

I'll leave her in her hands for now. I'm going to check on the others.

He turns and walks off and brushes a leaf out of his way, leaving the girls alone. As he nears the others someone comes running out of the bushes and hugs his leg. He looks down and smiles as he kneels and picks up Anabel-lee.

Hey kiddo, miss me?

Yes...

I've missed you too. Are you alright?

Uh-huh.

What about the others?

He asks as Tails walks over to them.

They're in pretty bad shape. But they should make it thanks to their tough hides.

Indeed. If their hides were any softer they would have been goners for sure.

Princes tells him as he folds his arms watching them. Titania and Zachery walk over and stand with them.

Why don't we head back and give them some time alone?

Yes, it was quite shocking to hear Mr. Quick Shot call them his sons. I wish to know the story, but for now, I think we should leave them be.

Nodding the turn to leave but as they do, they see Bella and Mali-Fa walking their way.

MALI-FA! OH thank Chaos you're alright!

Prince rushes to her side and takes her from Bella.

I was so worried that you were not going to make it.

I'm a lot tougher than I look, I assure you, Prince.

I'm glad. Now, why don't we get you inside and to bed? You need your rest.

Alright, but what about Drake and Jasper? Are they alright?

They're fine. But right now they need time with Quick Shot, and I think Bella has some questions.

Everyone looks over and they see Bella heading right for them. Nodding, Titania leads them away and lets them have their time alone. As they leave Bella gently calls out to Quick Shot.

Sugar Shot?

Bella?!

Quick Shot looks over and smiles softly at her and nods.

I...I guess you have some questions, don't you?

A few yes.

Jasper and Drake look at one another, then at him, and sigh. They look away feeling a bit ashamed for having kept the secret for so long.

Would you like the short or long version?

Short version?

She asks him and she sits next to them. With a heavy sigh, Quick Shot tells her.

I was sent to go after Riptide. I was around fifteen and it was my first solo mission. I knew I could take on Riptide but I never expected him to be crafty. When I found him, he had just killed a family of crocs before my very eyes. We had fought prior to the killing and his men got the best of me. When all was said and done, they left me to die. When I came out of it, the fires had died down and everything was in smoke and ashes. I looked around to see if I could find any survivors. I was about to give up when I heard crying. So following it, I found two baby crocs who looked as if they hatched not too long ago. I knew I couldn't leave them there so I took them home with me and told my mother. When she heard what happened, she knew I did the right thing. It took me months before I was ready to go back out, and when I was, my mom called me and asked me to go into the next room and what I saw was them holding out their tiny little arms out to me and calling me dada for the first time. You can only imagine how it made me feel that day.

Quick Shot lets out a sigh and goes on.

I knew they saw me as their parent and I knew that even though I was still young I now had a much bigger job than ever before. But I also knew my mom and my siblings would be there for me. Helping me every step of the way. I gave them names, provided for them, and watched them grow up from little hatchlings, to what they are now. I was there for it all. Or tired to be. Especially when this one…

Quick Shot kicks Drake's boot and he scoffs smiling.

Kept getting into trouble in school and would pick on everyone and start fights bigger than he was.

He still picks fights if you ask me.

Jasper says, chuckling out.

Hey, what happened on the ship doesn't count. That was a right bloody misunderstanding.

Even still.

Bella giggles, and looks at Drake and Jasper.

So if you were fifteen, how old are you two now?

fifteen.

Jasper tells her.

So the same age when Quick Shot went solo, huh?

Yeah.

But you told me that you're twenty-five, Quick Shot. If they're fifteen now, you should be thirty?

One would think that, but the thing is with my mother's side of the family, we kind of stop aging when we hit eighteen. Well, truth be told, we just age a bit slower.

How much slower?

Well, let's just say every four years will equal one year for a normal Mobian.

And you sure you two are fifteen? You're so HUGE right now.

Yeah, from what Quick...Dad told us when we were around eight, he knew our father for a short time and according to him, he was MASSIVE in size. Around eight and a half feet tall.

Jasper tells her as Drake goes on.

It was also around the time that he told us about Riptide as well. We found out that one day he was going after him and we wanted to come with him to get back at him for killing our family. He told us it was too dangerous but we ended up following him anyway. Being the stupid little kids we were, we got in the way and nearly got all three of us killed. But thankfully grandmum Kayla came after us when she found out we went missing and saved our hides that night. We learned then and there how dangerous da's job truly was.

Drake tells her with a heavy sigh as Jasper goes on.

He was mad at us for trying to follow him, and boy did we ever get it from grams. She had us wash the kitchen front top to bottom, making us wash every cup, plate, pot, and pan even if it was already clean, and clean, and change the bedding and dust every room at Moonlight Dreams Bar and Boarding room.

Jasper chuckles out shaking his head as he remembers. Drake chuckles, shaking his head as he goes on.

Heh, she even had us clean the whole bar room, and the private back rooms too. But only after she had someone else clean up most of the nastier messes before us. Thing's little kids shouldn't know about till they're old enough, y'know? We had to do this for four months we did.

Drake chuckles smiling at Quick Shot, as Jasper speaks.

Yeah, and once we served out punishment did dad wake us up early one morning and teach us how to fight. Saying that if we wanted to truly learn the family trade of becoming a mercenary he would teach. But only if we truly wanted it. I will admit after our first run-in with Riptide I was unsure about it, knowing what could happen in the end. I'd had nightmares for weeks because of what nearly happened. Drake made fun of me for it till one night he woke up screaming his little head off from a nightmare as well about it. You can only imagine the fight we got into afterward.

Hey, I told you had a nightmare about flesh-eating Chao, alright?!

Uh-huh? Even to this day, you're sticking with that old story, huh?

Yeah, I am. Got a problem with that?

Drake growls at him. Jasper chuckles as he holds his hands up.

Whatever floats your boat little brother.

Yeah, that's what I thought.

Jasper scoffs rolling his eyes as he goes on.

Anyway…Naturally, after a time of thinking it over, we said yes, and so he started to train us. The first lesson he taught us was hand-to-hand combat. Then when we became twelve he let us start using weapons. So long as we understood what it was they truly were meant for, and why, making sure we knew that they were to be used only in self-defense, and nothing more. Then when we turned thirteen he let us pick out what we wanted to use as our main weapon. When we became thirteen, he presented us with our father's old gear. A pair of black brass knuckles and well-kept hunting knives. I chose the black brass knuckles, and Drake took his hunting knives. And now here we are. The short version.

My word!? But why didn't you tell me all of this before, Sugar Shot?

Because I didn't want to scare you away or some stupid shit. I was afraid that you would reject me if you knew I took them in and found out about them being my adoptive sons. It's something we don't like to talk about much. Because even though they knew the truth, they wanted to keep it from people, if only to protect my family's name. So they took on their family's last name and we made it sound like I took them under my wing. The only ones who knew the real truth are my mother and siblings, and a few people close to us in the Manchester inner circle, and now after three years of being together, you know the truth, baby.

And if you ask me it's not hard being rejected. Heh, Drake does a pretty good job of that already.

Drake glares at his brother and growls at him.

Watch it, Jasper, I may be wiped out and everything, but I can still flatten you.

Hey, you forget who's the older twin here.

Don't care. You know I'll do it.

And if you flatten your brother, Drake, I'll put another bullet in you.

Quick Shot you will NOT shoot your son again! I won't allow it!

Hey, I did it before, back on the ship. And I'll do it again.

Imma let that pass because I didn't know that he was your SON before.

Not to say what happened wasn't my fault.

He's right. I told you he came to help me because of a rat in the room.

Oh, and the tail between the legs was to get you off wasn't at all part of the plan?

NO!

Both Bella and Drake say together as they glare at him, ready to kill him. Quick Shot chuckles out as he holds up his hands knowing when he is beaten.

OK, OK fine. You win. If it helps I kind of felt bad after, and Bella really chewed me out for it. I'm sorry I shot you, Drake.

Drake closes his eyes and shrugs.

Meh, forget about it, Quick Shot. Wouldn't be the first time you shot at me to put me in my place.

Drake opens an eye and smiles as Bella looks at Quick Shot.

Wait? You SHOT AT HIM AS A KID! WHAT THE HELL QUICK SHOT!

Hey in his defense, Drake had it coming every time, dad never hit him with any shots, but it worked to keep him in check. Not to say he's been saying he would shoot him one day, and well yesterday just happened to be that day, because of the whole rat thing.

Bella glares at Jasper growling at him.

NOT helping, Jasper. And as for you...QUICK SHOT! If we ever have kids one day and you shoot at them to get them under control, I will SKIN YOU ALIVE! DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR! AND IF YOU SHOOT AT DRAKE AGAIN, I'LL SEE TO IT YOU SLEEP OUTSIDE FOR A YEAR, IN EVERY KIND OF WEATHER!

Quick Shot and backs up in fear of her wrath. Drake lets out a hardy laugh as does Jasper.

I like her. Makes me wish she was around when we were grown up. She would have been an awesome mother. Right Jasper?

Yeah. But we had Kayla around, and Uncle Boba, Legen, and Aunt Mallory and Lulu.

I still find it weird that they're the same age as us.

Right?

Jasper chuckles, shaking his head.

Well, either way, it'll be good to know she'll make for an awesome mother one day. Not to say, you'll make just as much as an awesome father again one day when the time comes. I mean you raised me, and Jasper into what we are now.

Drake tells Quick Shot.

Yeah. Well now that is over with, let's head back to the others, we still have a lot to take care of.

Everyone gets up and they head back to the others, as they get back they hear a commotion and run to go see what was going on.

Where is it, where is it!?

Are you sure you left it right here?!

YES! When that guy came in I hid it right between these boxes. But now it's not here!

Hey, what's going on guys?

The Emerald is gone!

Knuckles looks at them. Their eyes widen as they look at one another.

It's got to be here right?!

It's not. I've moved these boxes and looked all over!

Everyone starts talking trying to figure out what could have happened to it. As they do, laughter could be heard making everyone stop what it was they were doing.

AH HA HA HA HA HAAAAAAAA! WHAT A BUNCH OF FOOLS YOU ARE!

Everyone looks at the computer and a new window pops up as Risa's face shows up, and in her hand was the Chaos Emerald.

You fools, when I saw your plane flying to the back of the island, I knew you had all gotten away. So I sent out a drone to follow you. You were so busy trying to help poor Mali-Fa that you didn't notice. But of course, no one would notice something as small as a fly on the wall. AH AH AH AH HAAAAAAAA!

WHAT!?

Everyone looks around and Tails spots it. Throwing his wrench at it, he manages to smash it.

Risa you bitch!

Titania yells at her.

Come now, you knew this was bound to happen. I got the key and the Chaos Emerald was an added bonus. Ivan will be extremely pleased when he hears about this. And hearing how it can control the weather, this will be interesting to find out how he uses this knowledge.

When I get my hands on you, Risa, you will be sorry!

I'd like to see you try, Guardian. Because I already figured out some of the prophecy, and we'll be one step ahead of you.

WHAT!?

Yes, that's right. I already know some of it. I figured it out when Prince told us about it. He he he… Anyway, I'd better get going now. I have a long two weeks to get back to base and tell Ivan about all of this. Not to say I need to start looking for a new right hand now that Mali-Fa has betrayed me. She is lucky I put in a special request not to get those special cybernetic implants like all sub-bosses get. Or she would have been a goner by now. I won't be making that mistake any time soon. Until later.

The screen turns to static and goes dark. Everyone looks at one another shocked by this news. Knuckles was pissed. Growling he turns around and punches a steel box leaving a massive dent in it. As he pants from the excursion, a light shines and Tikal takes over.

This is bad! If Ivan gets his hand on that Emerald there is no telling what he could do! I warned you this would happen, Knuckles!

DROP IT ALREADY TIKAL! I KNOW YOU DID! DON'T YOU THINK I FEEL STUPID ENOUGH AS IS!?

Yelling out, he turns around, and once again he punches the same steel box over and over again, letting his frustration out.

She's not that far out, if we hurry we can still catch her!

Tails tells them as he types away at the computer.

Then what are we waiting for?!

Knuckles turns on his heels and runs out of the room. Tails follows him as does Tikal and Quick Shot. Jasper and Drake were about to follow when Quick Shot turned to them.

You two stay here and rest. You've been through enough today. We'll be back shortly.

Alright, but be careful out there.

Nodding, Quick Shot hurries to catch the others, as they reach where Tails had parked the plane, Knuckles hears a beeping sound, and his eyes widen as he turns on a dime and jumps at Tikal and Tails yelling at Quick Shot…

GET DOWN NOW! HURRY!

Taking the hint fast, he ducks down as a massive explosion goes off, and the Tornado ends up in a fiery blaze. Pieces go flying into the jungle, and land around them, as they look up and cough, Tails yells out.

NOOOO! NOT MY PLANE!

AH AH AH AH HA HAAAAAAAA! Do you think I wasn't prepared for this? I knew you would try to come after me, so I had one of my men plant a little bomb on your plane to prevent you from following me.

Everyone groans out and looks around to where the voice could be coming from.

LOOK!?

Tikal points just above them when they see a drone hovering just above them. It stays there for a moment before flying off and back to Risa. Everyone gets up and looks on as the Tornado burns.

Now what?

Tikal asks.

Mina is not gonna be happy about this when she finds out.

Knuckles pats Tails shoulder and he looks up at him.

Mina will be the least of your worries when Ivan gets the Emerald. Right now we need to head back and figure this all out.

Yeah, alright.

With a heaving sigh, they all head back.

Back in Shiny Star City, Monroe Haven… Sunday 10:00 am…

Eris groans out, rolling over. She goes to snuggle into Birch only to find him gone. Sitting up and stretching out, she sighs and gets up. She does a couple more stretches and heads into her bathroom. As she walks by her mirror she eeps out and chuckles.

Man, I must have slept good to get this kind of bedhead, heh.

Smiling, she takes her brush and brushes out her hair, and puts it in a braid. Smiling, she uses the restroom, washes up, brushes her teeth, and heads downstairs, grabbing her phone as she does. As she hits the ground floor she smiles and hums out at the scent of bacon, and chocolate chip pancakes cooking. The TV was on in the kitchen and some show was playing.

That smells AMAZING!

She calls as she enters the kitchen.

Thanks, bird butt.

Eris stops as she looks and sees that it was Shadow cooking.

You're… cooking? I didn't know you knew how?

Yes, I'm cooking, and I know how. Now sit down and eat, and couldn't you have put on a bathrobe or something?

Shadow raises an eyebrow at her as he sets down a plate. She looks down at herself not seeing anything wrong with how she was dressed. She was in a pair of panties, with a matching tank top.

What's wrong with how I'm dressed? I always dress like this for bed.

She says as she sits down and starts to dig into her food.

You do know you don't live here by yourself right?

You're point being?

Shadow lets out a sigh and rolls his eyes at her as he goes back to cooking, not wanting to get into it. As she takes a bite of her pancakes her eyes light up and she lets go of a small mmm.

Do you like them?

Eris' eyes widened for a second at haven been caught. Shadow looks over his shoulder at her and she folds her ears back and shrugs.

Eh, I had better.

Shadow scoffs out and makes a plate for himself. As they eat Eris notices the house is fairly quiet.

Where is everyone?

Skye is in his workshop testing out the new gears. Jax is out practicing on his Gear. And if you wondering where your fuck toy is, he left early this morning after getting a call from Mr. Harper. And S-pup is around here someplace, probably asleep. So it's just you and me this morning.

Oh joy for me.

She tells him with a roll of her eyes. As they eat, Eris notices some files close to her. She takes one and opens it up looking at it.

What's all of this?

You told me you wanted me to check things out of how much land your family owns right?

Yeah?

Well, I went into your father's or den office and found those. It turns out you own quite a bit of land. Around six hundred and thirty acres from my understanding.

Eris looks at him surprised by this news.

You're joking right?!

I'm not. Also, it looks like that bear is off the hook as well. Turns out you were right about that meadow being on your land. Therefore he won't be paying for any of the damages.

Meaning I now have to. Right, would you mind dealing with it and talking with Mr. Harper about it please, and get me a quote on how much it will cost me.

Sure. But what are you going to do?

I'm going to finish this mediocre meal, make myself a power shake, get dressed, and go running. I need to get into shape for the upcoming preliminaries. Not to say I need to figure out how I'm going to get a power-type specialist on the team.

I thought Jax was going to be the third team member for it?

Jax is on standby. There is no way he is good enough to be on my team. From what he told me he's still pretty new to Extreme Gear.

You'd be surprised at what that cougar can do. I've seen him.

Don't care. I would ask Birch but he has his own team to worry about.

Eris puts another bite in her hand as the news special report sounds off, making Eris and Shadow look up and at the TV.

This is Rebekah Mink with Shining Star Channel six news wishing good morning. We are sorry to interrupt you this morning, but we just got word that another series of jewelry stores have been hit once again within the new metropolitan area just last night. This time it was in Empire city. Five stores were hit in one night.

Huh? Sounds like Rouge is up to her old tricks again.

I highly doubt that.

What makes you so sure?

Because she's in Soleanna Crisis City right now. I got a call from her a few days ago.

Huh? And I'm to believe you huh?

Yes.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing four people riding Extreme Gear. One of them managed to get a good look and told the authorities. If you look at your screens, you will see the sketches of the ones who have been hitting the stores. From my understanding, they are from Team New Neo Babylon Rogues.

On the screen, four bird Mobians were shown. Two looked like a hawk and swallow, the biggest of their team looked to be an albatross, and the smallest looked to be some kind of tropical breed of bird.

The police have identified them as River the Swallow, Radian the Hawk, Thunder the albatross, and Sunny the Rubino Bourke parakeet.

Told you.

Oh shut it bio-freak.

Out of the five stores hit, only one thing was taken. The famed White Chaos Emerald.

Both Shadow and Eris look on in shock as Shadow turns the sound up and Rebekah goes on.

Authorities are unsure why this was the only thing taken and nothing more. It is true that if sold on the black market it would fetch a pretty penny, but police are still unsure why it was the only thing taken.

Shadow hums out thinking as he takes out his phone. He types away at it and narrows his eyes.

Empire City is about a five-day drive from Shining Star City. Not on account of weather and road conditions.

Tell me something I don't know, hedgehog. Anyway, I'm done and I'm going to get dressed and head out. Oh, and if you could, try not to fuck everything up like you have been doing, thank you.

Eris takes one more bit of her food and gets up and heads back up to get dressed. In just a few minutes she was out of the door with her new iPod seven and the sound turned up all the way. She does a few stretches and starts running down the driveway.

In Eris' mind…

"So did you see?"

Eris asks Trinity.

"I did, yes. We need to find a way to get the emerald from those hooligans.

I know, but how?

I'm not sure. But we need to be careful.

Maybe we can find them and get them on our side?

Hmm...that could work, yes. We could use them to gather the Emeralds for us. But something tells me they will want something in return."

Eris and Trinity contemplate things over trying to think of something. As she runs down the pathway, an idea comes to Eris.

"I think I know how to lure them into our mists.

Oh, do tell.

Remember how I told you that Jax said he had some resources we could use?

Yes?

Well, I think it's time we call in that favor and see what he can get us."

Narrowing her eyes, Eris smiles and heads off to go find Jax. After a time she finds him on the race track behind Skye's workshop training. Smiling, she heads over to the railing and watches him for a bit.

Huh, Shadow wasn't kidding. For a rookie, he isn't half bad.

I know, right? I was a little surprised when he started out.

Eris looks up and over her shoulder and sees Skye walking over to her with a tablet and bottle of water in hand. He hands her the bottle of water as she greets him and thanks him.

Hey fox boy, and thanks.

Morning, and no problem. So what brings you out here?

I need to talk to Jax about something. Would you mind calling him in for me?

Sure. Hold on.

Skye types away at the tablet and calls Jax in. After a few moments, he comes to a stop panting hard as he jumps off his gear and hands it to Skye.

The air brakes seemed a little wonky on that last turn, dude. Not to say it felt a little off balance as well.

Alright, I'll run a diagnostics on it and take a look into it.

Thanks. So Skye said you wanted to see me?

Yeah. Walk with me a moment.

Eris leads the way as Skye heads back inside to work on Jax's Gear. Once she was sure that they were far enough away she spoke.

So I've been doing some thinking of late.

Oh?

Yes. Do you remember how you said you had some resources from someone you knew?

Yeah?

Well, I wasn't going to use them, but something came up and I changed my mind.

Jax stops and leans against the railing of a fence and crosses his legs and arms looking at her.

Why the sudden change of heart?

I have my reasons. So can you help me or not?

I can. Just tell me what it is you need.

I need something that will attract four little birdies to me.

I see. May I ask why?

You may, but I won't say. All you need to know is what I want you to know, so can you help me or not?

Alright, but on one condition?

Name it?

Put me on as your third for the upcoming preliminaries and you got yourself a deal.

Eris looks at him, eyeing him. She thinks for a moment and nods.

Hmm... You did look fairly good out there. But nowhere good enough. You're still a rookie in my book, remember?

Hey, I only said for the upcoming preliminaries and nothing more. You let me on the team that long and I'll get you what you need. No questions asked. Then when I help you win the top spot for the Grand Prix I'll step back as a bench warmer.

Eris thinks for a moment contemplating things. She paces back and forth thinking but after a moment she nods.

Alright deal. BUT you need to have Skye make sure your Gear is up-to-date with the new rules and regulations.

Deal.

Jax holds out his hand, and she takes it, shaking it.

When do you need this item? And who is it you're after?

The New Neo Babylon Rogues. Get me something they will fall in love with and you're on the starting team.

When do you need it? You have three days.

It'll be tough, but I'll see what I can do.

Nodding, she lets go of his hand and puts her earbuds back in.

I'll see you around, Jax, and also. Keep this from the others, they don't need to know I'm up to something.

Don't worry. I won't say anything.

Nodding, she started walking off till she was once again running.

Back in Eris' mind…

"So it worked out then?

Yes, it did. Now we just need to wait. Till then we need to come up with a plan and be ready for anything.

We'll need to fill in Birch when we see him.

I know we'll do it tonight when we meet up with him.

Alright."

With that Eris breaks the link and goes back to enjoying her workout.

Off the coast of Crystal Bay Cove...10:45 am…

You did well, Risa. With this information, you gave me I think I can figure something out. And you are sure that the Chaos Emerald can control the weather?

I am sir, yes. At least that is what the Guardian said.

Intriguing?

The one Risa was talking to over the video chat rubs his chin in thought. He turns around and paces for a moment thinking.

If this is true then this could prove to be very useful in an upcoming plan of mine. Very useful indeed. But to make sure see if you can't find a way to test it out on your way back and get me the results.

Right away, Ivan sir. I'll do my best if I can.

Good. Now, what of this prophecy you told me about?

It is as I said.

Ivan thinks for a moment as he turns to his computer and types away at it.

Yes...yes...I see now. It looks like there will be a blood moon in the coming months, and it looks like it will happen on the eve of the very last race of the World Grand Prix. But have you figured out who it is that the girl could be?

No. I only figured out that part. But something tells me if I was to hunt down Issa Long we may find out more.

Dr. Issa Long. Now that is a name I haven't heard in some time. Alright, do it. Find him and see what you can find out. Have Mali-Fa…

I'm sorry, but Mali-Fa is no longer part of the New Eggman Empire, sir.

What?!

Yes, she betrayed me during all of this and has sided with the Guardian and Dr. Starline, and his family. Even the mercenaries I hired turned against me as well.

I see. I bet you're regretting you put in the request to not have those cybernetic implants put in now, huh?

Indeed. I will NOT make the same mistake again if I can help it.

I will have someone waiting for you as your new right hand. I'll make sure that they have the implants in beforehand. Once you have docked, start seeking out Issa Long and extend a hand to him. Maybe we can learn more about this Dark Queen and see if maybe we can somehow work together. I'm sure she is a reasonable person, and I think with my help we can create an even better empire than ever before! OH OH OH HA HA HA HA HAAAAAAAA!

Risa smiles an overly toothy smile and chuckles out. The screen turns to static and blacks out as Ivan keeps laughing. He soon stops and he gets to work on formulating a new plan. One plan was already done, and he would soon unleash it onto Shining Star City.