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

5. Killing Four birds with one stone, P1

CHAPTER 3

Killing four birds with one stone… PART 1

The Jungles of Mystic Forest...1600 hours…

Easy does it now, Thunder! Bring her in nice and slow!

Yeah, yeah, I know, River! Chaos, you're as bad as your mom you know that!?

HEY, AT LEAST I'M NOT SOME LUNKHEAD LIKE YOUR FATHER!

HEY! YOU LEAVE DADDY OUT OF THIS RIVER!

Oh, quiet down pipsqueak!

NOT UNTIL YOU TAKE BACK WHAT YOU SAID ABOUT DADDY!

HEY, I'M ONLY TELLING IT LIKE IT IS, SUNNY! EVEN MOM THINKS HE IS ONE!

AUNTY WAVE DOES NOT THINK THAT ABOUT DADDY!

WANNA BET, PIPSQUEAK!?

HEY, ARE YOU EVEN WATCHING MY RIGHT SIDE, RIVER!?

YEAH, I AM.

ARE YOU SURE? BECAUSE IT SOUNDS LIKE YOUR STARTING A FIGHT WITH MY SISTER AGAIN!

HEY, SORRY! BUT I CALL…

ENOUGH! WILL YOU GUYS GIVE IT A REST ALREADY!? SHEESH! YOU'RE GIVING ME A DAMN HEADACHE!

SHUT IT RADIAN!

Three people tell their friend as a loud clanking sound is heard. Thunder flinches as he slowly backs up into the Blimps loading docks.

THUNDER!

NOT MY FAULT THAT SOMETHING GOT HIT! YOU TOLD ME THAT YOU WERE WATCHING MY RIGHT SIDE!

OH FOR THE LOVE OF CHAOS, YOU THREE!

Radian groans out as he facepalms, and a loud click is heard as the Blimp locks into place. Thunder lets out a sigh as he hits a few buttons and shuts the Blimp down. He gets out of his seat and walks over to the others as they head on out. They head to the back of the Blimp and open the loading dock grabbing their gear, they hop on them and fly out of their hiding place. They race one down a pathway with Radian in the lead, River next to him, and next to her, Thunder and Sunny. Goggles and sunglasses sparkle in the filtering sunlight of the jungle as they hurry on down the way. River adds a bit of speed to her Gear and gets ahead of her twin brother. She glances to her right, smiling, catching Radian's attention. He narrows his eyes and smiles back as he hits the boost on his Gear and goes flying off ahead of her. Laughing out, River does the same as Sunny, and Thunder follows suit.

Betcha I can beat you losers home this time!

Sunny calls out as she catches up with the twins and gets slightly ahead of them.

HA! Not on your LIFE twerp!

Radian yells out laughing.

Wanna bet, Radian!?

Alright kid, what is it gonna be THIS time?

If I win getting home first, then I get first dibs to pick out what movie, and snacks we eat for the next two months!

Alright, but if we win then you have to clean our rooms for the next two months!

Nu-ah! Just you and me this time! River and Thunder have to stay back this time. OH! And if I win then I get to pick out the new hatching's name as well!

Fine, but if I win I get to pick it out AND you have to clean my room for two months!

Deal!

Sunny, are you sure that is a good idea? Radian will flatten you!

Sunny giggles out, winking at River.

Not this time he won't. I got a new trick up my sleeve that's sure to help me win.

Rive looks at Thunder who shrugs not knowing what it could be. But he nods and River sighs.

Alright, but don't come crying to us if you lose again. Or to our moms and dads. Got it?

Yep! Besides, Aunty Wave helped me with my new trick. He he.

We'll see about that Sunny. Right, when we pass that huge boulder, the games begin. The rules are, you're to play fair. No using your powers or abilities, excluding Sunny's new trick. No using dirty tricks. You're only allowed to fill up your tanks ONE time, and lastly, the first to run out of air loses. Now on my mark...three...two...ONE...GO!

River shouts out as Sunny and Radian hit the boost on their gear and go flying. Thunder and River hit theirs as they follow them. Sunny was already in the lead, but Radian was catching up to her. Chuckling out, he sees a fallen tree and he jumps up on it and rides it as it connects to a thick vine. He takes the vine and grinds on it as it leads him around several trees and over a pond. He jumps off having seen he was ahead and continues. He looks behind him to see if Sunny was still behind him but all he sees is River and Thunder.

Huh? Where did she go?

UP HERE, DUMMY!

Huh?

Confused, he looks up and sees Sunny above him on another vine. Giggling, she does a one-eighty and jumps down from the vine and right into a water puddle where she uses her boost to blind him by splashing him with the water.

H-H-HEY! RIVER SAID NO DIRTY TRICKS, SUNNY!

Radian yells out at her as he wipes the water off his face and looks at his sister and Thunder. Thunder and River look at one another and nod, as River yells out.

We're allowing that!

WHAT!? YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS, RIVER!

Hey, I said no dirty tricks, like the cheating kind. Using the surrounding area and what it has to offer to help, counts! Also, if you wanna win this you best hurry up! She's way ahead of you now!

WHAT!?

Growling, Radian hits his boosters again, and races after her. He sees her ahead of him and yells out.

GET BACK HERE RIGHT NOW, SUNNY!

Sunny looks behind her and pulls down an eyelid and sticks her tongue out at him as she smacks her butt at him. Scoffing out, he grits his teeth and uses his boosters yet again. He was nearing her when she looked in front of her again and hit her boosters to get ahead of him. But it didn't take long for him to catch up to her and they were now neck and neck with one another. Radian looks to his right at her and cocks a half smile. She looks to her left and smiles back and points in front of them. He looked and he could see the checkpoint. Nodding they head for it getting ready to fill up their tanks. They reached it and Radian was the first to get off and start filling his tank. But Sunny goes flying by him without stopping. River sees this and her eyes widen as she yells out.

SUNNY, YOUR TANKS!?

Sunny looks back and waves as she hits her boosters and flies off. Radian looks at River and Thunder, who nodded.

If my sis thinks she can do it without stopping, then so be it.

DAMMIT!

Radian growls as his tanks slowly fill up. The Air pump dings and Radian takes a running start for about a fourth of a mile till he jumps back on his gear and powers up his boosters. He lets his back foot go and it sends him flying ahead of River and Thunder who had just caught up to him and got the backdraft from his boosters. They hold on and once the wind dies down they hurry to catch him and Sunny. They finally catch up to them and see them trying to outsmart the other. Thunder chuckles as he watches his little sister. River smiles having just as much fun watching the two of them go at it. They keep at it for thirty minutes until Thunder sees the last checkpoint and yells out.

WE'RE COMING UP TO THE LAST CHECKPOINT GUYS! IT WILL BE A STRAIT BEELINE FROM THERE!

Upon hearing this, Radian smiles as he looks down at his tanks gauges, and frowns. He was nearly empty why it looked as if Sunny still had plenty. But in truth, she started getting low herself. Meaning that it was time to put her new move to the test. Giggling out, she gently shifts her left foot a little and hits a button that is well hidden by her gear's color. Her gear slows down, making it looks like she was running out of air, and she gets a worried look on her face as Radian passes her laughing as he looks behind him and yells out.

I TOLD YOU, YOU WOULDN'T BEAT ME THIS TIME SUNNY! SO GET READY TO MEET YOUR MAKER! AH AH HAAAAAAA!

Radian laughs as he speeds off. But Sunny gets an evil wicked smile. Radian sees this and tilts his head wondering why she had that look.

Oh, Radian you dummy head. Don't underestimate me just because I'm littler than you.

She tells herself as she lets go of the hidden button and she goes FLYING like a rocket and right past him, forcing him to bring his arms up and cover his face. Even River and Thunder had to cover their faces because of the dirt and leaves flying back from the shear power of the booster Sunny used. When all dies down they hear laughing as they cough and Radian gear comes to a full stop and he falls off it and rolls head over heels and face first in the dirt. His Gear lands close by as he groans out and holds his head and looks up, shaking it. River and Thunder hop off their gear and go over to him, and help him up.

Hey, you alright, Rai?

Y-yeah… But what HAPPENED just now?!

My sis beat you but by a long shot.

WHAT!? AW man!

Radian hits the ground growling out.

That little brat really did beat me this time, didn't she?!

Yep. Come on, you can ride back with me.

River hops on her gear and holds out her hand to her brother. Smiling he takes it and hops on as Thunder grabs his gear, and hops on his. They speed on down and they see Sunny jumping up and down happily!

I DID IT! I DID IT! I WON, I WON, I WON!

Nicely done, kid.

Radian tells her as he hops off his sister's gear and goes over to Sunny, messing up her hair chuckling. River and Thunder hop off their Gears and set them against a couple of rocks.

That was pretty slick back there, Sunny.

Thanks. Aunty Wave helped me with it.

I helped you with what, kiddo?

Everyone looks over as a purple swallow with dark purple flame-like markings walks out from the foliage. She had on a white open-back leather bodysuit with a white bandanna and a pair of orange sunglasses on. In her arms, she carried an egg with her.

My new Gear Update!

OH, that? That was all on your kiddo, I just helped put it together. So you finally beat Radian, huh?

Wave walks over and messes up Sunny's hair making her giggle once again.

Yeah, it was SICK! And guess what!?

What?

I get to pick the movies and snacks for the next two months and pick out the new hatchling's name!

Nice, Sunny.

She looks over at her Son and smiles.

Sorry, you didn't win, hon.

Naw it's alright mom. Hey? Has it moved yet!?

Yeah, Has it, mom?

I'm kind of curious myself, to be honest, Aunty Wave.

Sadly no. Not yet. It should have by now and I'm starting to worry.

You worry too much, Wave. You do know that right?

Oh, come on, Jet. You were worried when Radian and River didn't hatch on time.

Wave and the group look over to see a green Hawk walking out from the foliage and over to Wave.

That was different.

How is it different from last time, Jet?

Because last time we were wrong about the hatching date.

I've timed everything right this time and you know my calculations are hardly ever wrong! What if…Oh, Chaos I don't want to think about what if…

Wave looks away holding her egg close to her. Jet lets out a sigh and looks at Wave with love. He takes hold of her and kisses her.

I suppose you are right. But do try not to worry, I'm sure they will hatch any day now.

Letting out a sigh, Wave gives a sad smile and nuzzles up to him.

I hope so. But I'm still worried, Jet.

Hey, mom?

Yes, River?

We could take over egg watching duty if you like. You know? Just to give you a bit of rest?

Thank you, River dear, but I got this. Anyway, how did everything go? Did you get the Chaos Emerald for our client?

Yeah, we did, took five shops but we found it. But why do we have to give it to him anyway? I mean do you know how much this could be worth on the Black Market!?

I know, but our client is willing to pay ten times as much for it. Now come on let's head inside.

I don't know why we need to, Uncle Jet. There is something fishy about this guy. A-and I don't like it. He rubs my feathers the wrong way!

Jet looks at Sunny and pats her head. She looks up at him with worried pink eyes as if something was truly and deeply bothering her.

Hey, it'll be fine, Sunny, I promise you. Now, why not go put your gear up and go see your mom? I heard her in the kitchen and I think she was getting ready to bake.

Letting out a sigh, Sunny nods and heads off to see her mother. Jet looks at his son and Thunder.

So, do you guys have it with you?

Yeah, we do. Thunder hand it over.

You hand it over.

But I don't have it.

Well, I don't have it.

River?

The boys look at River and she shrugs, shaking her head.

OH, FOR THE LOVE OF CHAOS!

Radian facepalms and groans out.

Do you mean to tell me you guys FORGOT IT!?

Hey, not my fault. I was steering the Blimp! And River was fighting with my sister AGAIN!

Oh, for the love of...YOU'RE AS BAD AS YOUR FATHER THUNDER! BIG, DUMB, AND STUPID!

HEY, Y-Y-YOU T-T-TAKE T-T-THAT BACK R-R-RIGHT NOW….O-O-OR SO HELP ME...C-C-CHAOS…

SEE YOU EVEN STUTTER LIKE YOUR FATHER WHEN EXCITED, AH AH AH HAHAHAHAAAAA!

W-W-WHY YOU NO G-G-GOOD...GAAH!

Thunder jumps at Radian and he tackles him to the ground. They both start fighting one another as Rive and her dad rub their temples shaking their heads.

Hey Boss! Wave needs your...help…? Ah, what's going on?

River and Jet look behind them and they see another albatross coming out of the foliage.

These two IDIOTS forgot the damn Chaos Emerald back at the Blimp. And Radian was making fun of Thunder yet again and here we are.

River lets out a sigh shaking her head as she places a folded hand on her hip.

Whatever…

She states with a roll of her eyes and continues.

I'll head back and get it. I'll be back in a little while.

River starts to walk off when her father calls to her.

You're not taking your gear? It'll be a long walk back to the docks.

I'll be fine. Besides, I'm low on air, and walking will be nice. If anything goes wrong, I have my communicator with me. Besides the sooner, I get away from dumb and dumber the better.

HEY!?

Both Thunder and Radian look up from their scuffling growl at her. She looks at them and bends over with a hand on her hip as she addresses them.

It's true and you know it. You're both rolling around in the dirt like little five-year-olds! And over what!? The fact that YOU Radian called Thunder big and stupid?! When you KNOW HOW HE GETS WHEN RILED UP LIKE THAT! CHAOS! HOW IS IT I'M EVEN RELATED TO YOU, RADIAN!? YOU ANNOY ME SO MUCH! YOU'RE JUST LIKE DAD WHEN HE WOULD ANNOY MOM!

HEY! I'm right here you know, River!

Jet folds his arms annoyed with his daughter. River looks up and narrows her eyes and Jet backs off a bit.

THAT'S MY POINT! HE'S PRACTICALLY A MINI YOU! ANNOYING, AND A BRAT!

River yells at him, making him cringe.

How mom ever put up with it I'll never know. But I do know that I DON'T HAVE TOO!

With that, River grabs a hold of her gear and jumps on it, not caring that it was low on air, and flies off. Both Thunder and Radian watch her fly off, then look at one another, growl and start fighting once again. As they roll and tussle on the ground, Jet sighs, shaking his head as he folds his arms.

I hate to say it but she is right. Radian is as bad as me when I was his age.

Kids? What can you do, right?

Yeah. So you said Wave needed my help with something?

Huh, OH, YEAH! She asked me to let you know she needed help finding something.

Alright, will you take care of our sons and meet us back inside?

Sure, Boss.

With another sigh, and looking at the boys one last time, he shakes his head and turns to leave, leaving Storm to deal with their sons. Storm goes over and manages to get Radian off Thunder and holds him back.

Alright, that is enough, Radian. No more fighting!

Fine! Just let me go, Uncle Storm!

Storm looks at him watching him as he slowly lets him go. He slowly removes his arms but keeps them close by should he jump Thunder. Seeing how he wasn't gonna do so he lets out a sigh and nods.

Good. Now let's go inside. It'll be dinner soon, and you two need to wash up, or Scarlet will have a fit.

Yes, Uncle Storm.

Yes, dad.

Nodding, he sends the boys in, as he turns around and starts to head back in when something catches his eye. Turning back around and tilting his head, he stares out into the jungle but doesn't see anything.

Huh? I could have sworn I just saw something, just now.

Walking into the foliage he calls out.

Hello? Is anyone there? HELLO!?

As he walks in further tropical birds fly into the sky startling him. He backs up and ends up stepping on something. Looking down, he lifts a foot and tilts his head.

What's this?

He picks it up and turns it over in his hand, and sees that it looked to be a key of sorts.

Huh? Pretty weird-looking key. Never saw anything like it. But why is it out here? Is it one of the girls? I don't think so, but I'm getting a funny feeling from it. Maybe what Sunny told Scarlet is true? Maybe something is going to happen. Hmm… I know I may not be very bright, but even I can tell when something is up. I best warn Jet and the others fast. I get the feeling that Dr. Long is bad news.

Clenching the key in his hand he turns around and runs inside to talk with Jet and Wave.

With River…

She was now walking having run out of air and was approaching the air station her mom had set up. With a heavy sigh, she walks over to it and sets her gear down to start filling up. She leans against the side waiting for it and folds her arms, and rests her foot on the side with her head down thinking.

I swear Radian is such a jerk sometimes. He truly is as bad as daddy at times. Though I guess I'm no better. I did kind of start with Sunny again.

River lets out a sigh shaking her head.

But Uncle Storm is a bit of a dummy, but he isn't all bad. I know mom has told me he has changed a lot over the years before we all came along. But what bugs me is this Issa Long guy. I don't know if dad is just as dumb as ever, or if everything will be alright. I know mom has to feel something is off. Hmm...

The Air Station dings to let her know that her gear was full once again. Taking a hold of it he sets it down and jumps on it. She pushes her sunglasses down and steps on the button and starts flying off. Trees and plants start going by her in a blur as she flies down the path, as she thinks to herself…

"Think about this River. Some strange and mysterious doctor shows up out of the blue. Hires us to get him the Chaos Emeralds, and all for what? I know we're not to ask questions, and just do our job, but I'm with Sunny on this one. Something is off. But what? Think River. THINK! There has GOT to be a reason why...NO!?"

Rive hits her brakes and comes to a full stop and hops off her Gear and starts running into the jungle. As she jumps over rocks, fallen tree trunks, and more, she comes to a place she had out in the jungle. She bursts through the doors and heads right over to a computer, sets her Gear down close by, and starts typing away at it. She takes off the red gem on the necklace she had around her neck and puts it on a stand as it starts analyzing some data she had.

Come on, where is it? Where is it!? AH-HA! Found it!

Typing away she starts downloading what she needed to her gem, reading everything over. As she remembers the video meeting with him a few months back…

Flash Back to three and a half months ago…

"I need these before the next blood-red moon. It is imperative that I get them before then.

Normally we don't ask why, but why do you need them, Mr. puppy-man?

That is not for you to know, little girl. Just know I need them for something I am working on.

HEY! I would watch it if I were you! WE CAN EASILY JUST IGNORE YOUR REQUEST OF HIRING US! WE'RE THE NEW NEO BABYLON ROGUES! AND AS THE LEADER WHAT I SAY GOES! SO YOU WANT THAT EMERALD, THEN SHOW ME AND MY TEAM SOME RESPECT! SUNNY MAY BE YOUNG, BUT SHE IS STILL PART OF THE TEAM!"

River slams her hands on the computer console growling out at him for ditching Sunny.

"Hmm...very well. If you MUST know, I am planning something big, I will not bore you with all the details since your little bird brains may not understand, but I need all seven Emeralds to help bring something back from the dead."

HUH!?"

River, Radian, Thunder, and Sunny look at one another confused.

"Since when could they do that?"

Thunder asks.

"As I said I won't go into details about it. It would take too long to explain, and it may end up turning your little bird brains to mush. But just know that the Emeralds have now connected with the elements.

The elements?"

Asked River.

"What do you mean?

Oh, for the love of chaos...What I mean is that each of the seven Emeralds is now connected with the Elements of nature, and it's chakras. Like the one, I've located. The white emerald. From my understanding, it is infused with the element of snow and ice, and at the same time, balance. It is the key to making sure that the others do not go out of control.

What happens if they go out of control, Mr. puppy-man?"

Sunny asks.

"If the other emeralds go out of control then it could mean the end of Mobius as we know it.

That sounds a bit far-fetched if you ask me, Dr. Long."

River tells him with a fold of her arms.

"I agree with my sister. That sounds crazy!

Even if it does, I still need them.

How do we know you're not up to something world-dominating?

Because you don't, Miss. River."

River looks at the others and hums out worriedly. She tells Dr. Long to give them a moment to talk things over and she would get back to them. Thunder mutes him, and they walk off to talk things over.

"I don't know if I like this guys.

Same, Thunder but how do we know he's not lying? He could be another Dr. Robotnik if you catch my drift.

Listen, sis. Even if he is, once we hand over the emerald it's not our problem.

But to bring back the DEAD!? How is that POSSIBLE!?

Imma with River on this one, Radian.

But what confuses me more is the fact of how the Emeralds are now connected with the Elements and Chakras of Nature. I've heard the stories, from mom and dad, and it doesn't add up. Not to say they haven't been seen or found in over fifteen years. So why now?

Come on River. It's a job and nothing more. Why does it matter?

Just a job? JUST a job, Radian!? BECAUSE RADIAN IF THIS IS TRUE AND WE HAND THAT EMERALD OVER IT COULD BE THE END OF MOBIUS! FOR ONCE IN YOUR LIFE THINK LIKE A NORMAL MOBIAN AND NOT LIKE DAD! ALL YOU THINK ABOUT IS THE PAY BUT NOT THE FACT OF OUR ACTIONS!

Hey, ah, guys?

Not now, Sunny...WE'RE THIEVES, RIVER! MERCENARIES! IT'S OUR JOB TO GO AROUND, STEAL THINGS AND HAND THEM OVER TO THE CLIENT! CHAOS! YOU ARE SO MUCH LIKE MOM, ALWAYS THINKING OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF OUR ACTIONS!

Ah, guys…

Just hold on Sunny...BECAUSE UNLIKE YOU I CARE ABOUT EVERYONE AROUND ME, NOT JUST THE MONEY! THIS COULD END BADLY IF WE'RE NOT CAREFUL! IF WE HAND THE EMERALD OVER THINK OF WHAT COULD HAPPEN, RADIAN!? NOT TO SAY THIS WHOLE THING ABOUT THEM NOW BEING INTERTWINED WITH THE ELEMENTS IS JUST AS BAD! I DON'T THINK WE SHOULD DO THIS!

Guys…

We said to hold on Sunny...I THINK WE SHOULD! AND AS THE LEADER…

LEADER!? LEADER!?LAST I CHECK I'MTHE LEADER OF THE NEW NEO BABYLON ROGUES! NOT YOU RADIAN! I'M THE OLDEST TWIN, NOT YOU! AND WHAT I SAY GOES! WE'RE NOT DOING IT!

LIKE HELL, RIVER! WE ARE DOING IT!

NO, WE'RE NOT!

GUYS!

WHAT SUNNY!?"

Both River and Radian look at Sunny making her eep out and hide behind her brother as she peeks around, shaking as tears slightly well up.

"I-I say we vote…

Huh?"

River and Radian look at one another then back. They eye one another and River gives in.

"FINE! We'll vote.

But how are we gonna do that? There are only four of us on the team."

Radian scoffs as he folds his arms.

"Thunder is right. It wouldn't be fair should two of us vote yes and two no.

Right. Sunny, go get our parents and tell them we need them now!

Alright, River."

Nodding, Sunny runs off as River folds her arms, and glances over her shoulder at Dr. Long. Sighing, she goes over and UNmutes him.

"Dr. Long, so sorry to keep you waiting. My team and I are having a bit of a time trying to decide if we should take the job or not.

What is there TO decide? It is a job is it not? You get paid either way.

SEE! The Doc gets it!

SHUT IT RADIAN! BEFORE I DECK YOU OUT COLD!"

Radian scoffs out with a roll of his eyes and folds his arms shutting up. With a sigh, River readdresses Dr. Long.

"That may be true, but with what you told us...I...I don't know if we should. Sunny ran to go get our parents for an even vote. So if you could give us a bit longer?

Very well, young Miss River. You're lucky I am a very patient man."

River nods and puts him back on mute and lets out a sigh. After a moment, Sunny comes back with her mother, father, and Jet and Wave and River explains everything.

"You're right that is bad. But hey, a job is a job, and we can't pass this down. He's willing to pay you all like ten times as much than what we could get on the black market.

Come on, Jet. You can't be SERIOUS!? River is right, if we hand the emerald over and it can do what she says it can, then him getting all seven will mean the end of Mobius!

Don't care.

See I told you dad would be on my side, sis."

River growls out and holds a fist up as she lunges at her brother making him step back a few steps and right into the computer council where he ends up hitting the mute button without knowing it allowing Dr. Long to listen in, but he remains quiet as Scarlet speaks up, as she takes hold of Rivers arm.

"Easy now, River, honey. I know your brother is an asshole, much like your father…

WHAT WAS THAT!?"

Both Jet and Radian yell at Scarlet as she holds her hands up.

"I'm not wrong. Am I Wave?

Not in the least, Scarlet. But they are my boys nonetheless."

Wave sighs, shaking her head as she folds her arms as Scarlet goes on.

"Now, I agree on both sides here. One, yes it would be bad if Dr. Long got his hands on the emeralds. But two, it is a job, and for as long as I have been on this team, I have never once known us to pass up on a job before. So now the question is, do you guys do it or not?

Scarlet is right. So you had Sunny come get us for an even vote. But we've yet to hear from Thunder, Storm, and Sunny. What do you three think? And Jet no harassing them either on saying yes or you're sleeping outside this time, and I happen to know a storm is rolling in."

Jet looks at his wife Wave wide eye. But when he sees her look hardening he backs off grumbling and nods.

"Good. Now, what do you think?"

Storm, Thunder, and Sunny look at one another and back thinking for a time.

"Well, Scarlet is right. A job is a job."

Storm says.

Not to say, River is right as well, uncle Jet. If we give him the emerald it will be bad.

Well, I vote no. I don't like the idea of the dead coming back."

Wave states.

"I also vote no as well. I refuse to be responsible for Mobius' end."

River says.

"Well, I vote yes.

I'm with dad on this one."

Both Jet and Radian say.

"So that is two no's and two yes. So what about you four?"

Everyone looks at Scarlet, Thunder, Storm, and Sunny.

"I say yes as well. We're the Babylon Rogues, we never pass up a job!

Wow, Storm, that's a first coming from you. You hardly ever speak up like this without one of us nagging you. I'm impressed!

Th-thanks boss!

So now that's three yes' and two nos Thunder, Scarlet, Sunny?

Well, you know my answer already, Wave."

Scarlet lets her arms fall to her side as she walks over to Storm, Radian, and Jet.

"OK, so that leaves you, Thunder, and Sunny.

I say no.

WHAT!? THUNDER ARE YOU INSANE!

No, I'm not, Radian. I get a very bad feeling about all of this and I don't like it! And I especially get a really bad feeling about that Dr. Long guy. Something isn't right.

Yeah…whatever, Thunder, your traitor."

Radian grumbles out with a fold of his and a scoff.

"So now that leaves Sunny?"

They all look over at Sunny who had been quiet since she came back with their parents.

"Sunny, baby? What do you think we should do?

"I don't know mama? I know it's our job to do this kind of stuff. But it could put everyone in danger as well. But...I...well…"

Sunny looks around at everyone. She knew the final answer relied on her to finalize the vote. She looks down at plays with something in her hands. Scarlet sees this and tilts her head.

"Honey, what's that you got there?"

Sunny looks up at her mother, then back down at the item in hand and sighs. As she looks up, and over at the screen and sees that Dr. Long was no longer muted. She jumps down from her seat and walks over to the computer and looks up at him, while still playing with what was in her hand.

"Excuse me, Mr. puppy-man?

Yes, little one?

You said that the emeralds can bring back the dead right?

Yes, that's right.

If this is true, then would they be like brain-eating zombies?

Oh, Goodness no! Whatever would make you think that?

Radian said that when the dead come back, they come back as brain-eating zombies and they like the brains of younger Mobians the best because they are sweeter and tastier than older people, or kid brains.

RADIAN BABYLON FIRE HAWK!? HAVE YOU BEEN TELLING MY DAUGHTER STORIES AGAIN, AND SCARING HER BEFORE BED!?"

Storm looks at Radian ready to kill him. Even Wave and Scarlet looked ready to beat the shit out of him. Jet on the other hand slaps the back of his son's head hard making him stumble. He rubs the back of his head and grumbles out as he looks at his father.

"YOU'RE GROUNDED FOR THE NEXT TWO WEEKS RAIDAN! WE'VE TOLD YOU TIME AND TIME AGAIN TO STOP THAT!

OH COME ON, DAD! I was only having a bit of fun!

FUN IS GOING TO THE WATER PARK! NOT WAKING UP TO SUNNY CRYING HER EYES OUT AT THREE IN THE MORNING BECAUSE OF BRAIN-EATING ZOMBIES!"

Scarlet yells at him.

"MY WIFE IS RIGHT, RADIAN! SUNNY IS YOUR COUSIN! YOU'RE FAMILY! YOU SHOULDN'T BE PICKING ON HER LIKE THAT WHEN SHE IS STILL SO YOUNG!

SAYS THE ONE CALLING THE KETTLE BLACK, UNCLE STORM!

E-E-EXC-C-CUSE M-M-ME!?

AND WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT, RADIAN!?"

Scarlet yells out as both Jet and Wave look at their son. Even River and Thunder looked annoyed at him.

'WHAT PARENT GOES AROUND AND TEACHES THEIR EIGHT-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER TO STEAL THINGS!?'

Jet, Wave, Storm, and Scarlet look at one another a bit dumbfounded by his words, knowing he had a point. What normal family would teach their eight-year-old kid to steal priceless artifacts, Paintings, and more? Even Thunder and Wave look a bit taken back by this.

"See I'm right. No normal family would go around and teach their eight-year-old daughter to steal things.

As much as I hate to say it, your son does have a point. No NORMAL family would be teaching their kids to go around and steal things.

See, even the Doc agrees with me."

Radian states with an overly smug look on his face. But it only lasted about five seconds when Jet smacks him yet again, wiping it clean off.

"TWO MONTHS GROUNDING YOU SMART ALEC LITTLE SHIT!

What!?

YOU HEARD ME, RADIAN! AS FOR YOU! YOU STAY OUT OF THIS FLEABAG!

My WORD! Such rudeness. Why I have never!?"

Dr. Long huffs out and looks away with a scoff.

"OK, OK. let's all cool it, please. Now, Radian, as your father said, you're grounded for the next two months. No games, no Extreme Gear, other than for this mission should Sunny break the tie, and you're to help clean up around here. Do I make myself young, man?"

Wave looks at her son with a fold of her arms and a stern look.

"Yes, mom.

Good. Now as for you, Jet Fire Babylon Hawk…"

Jet looks over at his wife, and right away he wished he was someplace else other than here. The clam cold stair she was giving him, made him wish he was dead right now. With a gulp, he answers her.

"Y-Y-Yes, m-m-my dear?..."

Wave slowly points to the computer screen and growls out low, and deadly.

"Apologize to Dr. Long right now, before I pluck you bald AND ROAST YOU OVER A OPEN FIRE PIT!

Y-Y-Y-YES DEAR! RIGHT AWAY, DEAR! I'M SO SORRY, DEAR!

NOT ME, HIM!"

Jet yelps out and looks at the screen, and bows.

"I-I-I'm so sorry, Dr. Long. I shouldn't have been so rude to you! Please, forgive me!

Tisk…"

Dr. Long rolls his eyes at Jet letting a sigh escape his lips.

"Whatever. Just don't let it happen again. Now, as to the young one's question. I assure you that they will not come back as brain-eating zombies, my dear. That is only in movies, and nothing more. When the Chaos Emeralds bring them back, they will be as alive as you, me, or your family.

Really!?

Yes really.

What about Chao? Will they come back as Zombies too?"

Everyone looks at Radian with an annoyed deadpan look.

"What?

Oh for the love of…"

Wave says with a facepalm.

"three months, Radian. Three months grounding, and you are cleaning out the blimp by yourself from top to bottom and helping your sister with whatever she needs, and that means errands as well as anything else she needs.

Tisk…whatever, mom…

DO YOU WANT TO BE GROUNDED FOR A WHOLE YEAR!?

ALRIGHT! ALRIGHT! I'LL STOP NOW! SHEESH…"

Wave sighs out, rubbing her temples, feeling a migraine coming on.

"Alright, this has gone on long enough, and I for one, am starting to get a migraine, and it's past time for my nap, and my feet are KILLING! So, please…can we finish now so I can go lay down? Carrying this egg isn't easy, you know?

Sorry, Aunty, Wave."

Sunny tells her sadly.

"Yeah, Sorry mom. Once done, I'll come to help you relax and make you a snack, why Radian, rubs your feet."

River glares at her brother, narrowing her eyes at him as if DARING him to argue with her. Seeing her look he nods, ribbing the back of his head and letting out a sigh.

"Yeah, sorry mom, and I guess I could do that.

Thank you both. Now, Sunny, what do you say?

Mr. Puppy man didn't answer me.

Well, Dr. Long? Will Chao come back as brain-eating zombies as well?"

Scarlet asks him.

"Oh GOODNESS NO! I would think not. Why if they came back as brain-eating Zombies, I wouldn't be able to SLEEP at night thinking that my beloved little, Jehosaphat would come back to eat my brain. Oh goodness, no. I assure you they will come back like nothing ever happened before.

Then does that mean I could see Dove again?

Dove?

She was my snow-white Chao. People were mean to her and they killed her.

I see. I see. I would think so, yes.

Then I saw yes! I think we should do the job for Mr. Puppy man.

EXCELLENT! You have no idea how happy this makes me. I'll send you the info and get back to me when you can."

With being outvoted, River nods and thanks him. She sighs, turns around, and folds her arms, shaking her head.

"I don't like this at all, but what is done is done. Thunder wait for the info that Dr. Long is sending us, let me know when downloaded so I can look it over. Mom, dad, Aunt Scarlet, and uncle Storm thank you for the help. Come on mom, let's go lay you down and I'll get you that afternoon snack why Radian rubs your feet…"

End of flashback…

Growling, River snatches her gem off the stand and runs back out of her hut, and back home at top speed…

At Dr. Starline's home...01:00 am…

MILES "TAILS" PROWER! YOU ARE A DEAD FOX WHEN YOU GET HOME!

I know Mina and I'm sorry. I know that I promised…

SAID YOU WERE DONE WITH THIS ALL! YOU PROMISED ME! WHAT IF SOMETHING HAPPENED TO YOU!?

But nothing did. And I'm alright! But I had to do SOMETHING to help everyone! I couldn't stand idly by and let everyone get HURT! ONE OF THEM WAS ONLY A LITTLE GIRL!

WHAT?!

It's true, Mina. But everyone is alright, I promise. Maybe a little shaken, but everyone is OK. Well...except maybe, Knuckles. He's still beating himself up over the fact he brought Chaos Emerald with him and had it stolen.

Tails looked over at Knuckles who was looking out a window. Mina could see him and sighed, worried about him.

The poor dear. I'm sure he will be alright, right?

Yeah. This is Knuckles after all? He'll pull through, I'm sure of it.

You're right. But what about you? How are you going to get home, now that the Tornado is gone?

Not sure, but I'll figure something out. Anyway, I best get going. It's late here and everyone is on pins and needles.

Alright, honey. Love you. But don't think you're off the hook when you get home.

Yes, Mina. Love you too, Mina. Stay safe.

I will.

Tails shut the video link down and let out a sigh. Stretching out, he gets up and walks over to Knuckles, and places a hand on his shoulder.

Hey, are you doing alright, Knux?

Yeah, or I will be.

Knuckles sighs, letting his arms fall to his side.

I can't believe how stupid I was for bringing the Chaos Emerald down. Tikal is right, I am nothing but a fuck up.

Come on Knuckles, you didn't know this would happen. None of us knew this would happen. It just happened. And something tells me that the cosmos have a huge plan in store for us all.

Heh, right…

Knuckles let out another sigh and turns around and walks out of the room and outside. Tails stands there and watches him leave, heaving out a sigh as himself, his ears fold back. With another sigh, he looks out the window and the moon. It was only just a sliver right now with the new moon approaching but he knew something bad was about to happen and he wished he knew what it was. He folds his arms and closes his eyes as his tails gently sway as he thinks.

"See here...Even though I only got a small look at those files I do remember something about a blood moon and a race. But what is that all about? I can't mean the coming preliminaries, could it? No… unless it means…"

Tail's eyes shoot open as he comes to realize something. He was about to run off to Dr. Starline's computers when something grabs one of his tails, making him look around surprised. He looks down and upon seeing who it was, he gently smiles as he sees little Elizabeth-Ann hugging his tail. Chuckling out, he bends down and gently picks her up, and cradles her.

Hello, there little one.

Elizabeth-Ann lets out a yawn and rubs her eyes.

I had bad dream…

Aw...did you now?

Uh-huh.

Well, where are your mom and dad? Or your brothers?

I don't knows? Your tails soft and fluffy like a cloud.

Tails chuckles out and gently boops her beak and gives her a little nuzzle.

Thank you, Elizabeth-Ann. My kids used to think so as well when they were your age.

They old as me?

Sadly no. They're all grown up living their lives right now.

Oh? You miss them?

I do, yes. But we do see one another from time to time.

Dat good.

She tells him with another yawn making Tails chuckle once again.

Come on, let's get you back to bed.

Okays.

Smiling, he leaves the room and takes her back to her room after she shows him the way. He tucks her in and stays with her for a bit till she falls back asleep and leaves making sure not to wake her. Once out of her room, he hurries back the way he came and to Dr. Starline's lab where he hurries in and finds most everyone there, but Knuckles.

Good, you're all here. That saves me the trouble of trying to find you or waking you all.

Mr. Prower?

Dr. Starline asks him with a tilt of his head as Tails pushes Prince out of the way and starts typing at the computer as he brings up the files that Dr. Starline and Prince and the rest were looking at.

Hey, what's going on here, Mate?

Yeah, what's going on, Mr. Prower?

Bella and Quick Shot ask him.

When I was watching Mali-Fa and why you were all fighting to save Jasper, Drake, and little Anabel-lee I saw that the files were left open. I only got a small look at them but a couple of things caught my eye.

What do you mean?

What I mean is I think I figured out some of the prophecy, Prince.

WHAT!?

Everyone in the room gaps out as they look at one another. Drake grunts and points a knife at him.

You're pulling our legs, right fluffy?

I'm not. It came to me after Knuckles left to go someplace.

Uncle Knuckles is gone?

Duke asks a bit sadly.

I'm sure he went to clear his head, son. A lot has happened and I'm sure he feels bad for what happened.

Titania tells him, as she places her hands on his shoulders from behind, making him look over his shoulder at her.

I wanna go look for him, mom, to make sure he is alright.

What you should be doing is sleeping. It's late right now.

I know, mother, but I'm worried about him.

I know you are, we all are. But it won't do any good to anyone without some sleep. You can check on him in the morning. Now come on, let's go. Zachery, I take it you are staying, my love?

Yes, I wish to hear what Mr. Prowers has to say.

Prince?

Same mother.

Very well. Good night everyone.

Everyone bids her and Duke a goodnight as they look back at Tails.

So as I was saying I saw the prophecy and I think I figured some of it out.

Which part are you talking about?

The part about the blood moon, and race, Bella. After Knuckles left, I started to think, when I looked out the window it dawned on me what the blood moon is. It's the very same moon that occurred during the time that the Black Arms attacked Mobius years ago.

Tails types away at the computer and images of the Black Arms events show up and with it the Blood Red moon. Everyone gaps out as they look at one another in shock.

Mr. Prower, are you sure about this?

Yes, Prince, I am. I'm almost one hundred percent sure of it. But that isn't all. I also figured out when it's going to happen.

Tails types away at the computer and a poster for the World Grand Prix shows up and everyone once again gasps out.

All those PEOPLE!?

THEY'LL BE IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ALL!

This isn't good, mate! YOU GOT TO BE PULLING OUR LEGS NOW, FOXY!

Drake stands up with a grunt and readies another knife, as Jasper holds his brother back shaking his head.

I don't think Miles is lying, Drake. I get the feeling he isn't the kind of fox to do that.

You're right, Jasper, I'm not.

Oh, Sugar Shot what are we going to do?! All those people will be hurt or worse!

I don't know my golden apple, but I think Mr. Prowers does.

I wish I did every one. But we can't go to the EGT committee and say… Hey, is there any way you could cancel the upcoming Grand Prix for us due to the Black Arms possibly coming back to kill everyone on Mobius once again?" Yeah, that won't work, because the only Black Arms being still around is Shadow The Hedgehog. So I don't know what to do right now.

This Shadow, Mate, would he be a friend of yours?

Yeah, he is.

Would he know something about this?

I doubt it, Miss Bella.

Then what do you propose Mr. Prower?

Zachery asks him worriedly.

Well, I propose we enter the upcoming preliminaries with a team and watch out for whatever is going on.

But how do we do that? It says we need a team of four this year.

Heh, then it's a good thing we have a team of four, my love.

Sugar Shot?

Bella looks at Quick Shot confused.

He's talking about us, Bella. We know how to use Extreme Gear. And if you ask me, I think we're killer out on the race track, wouldn't you agree, Drake?

Oh yeah, we're downright deadly when it comes to racing.

Jasper and Drake tell her.

Thing is, I don't. Well in truth I do, but not much, I never really took classes. I just know the basics of them, and what my gear type is.

Then that's a start, baby. Mr. Miles, when are the preliminaries, mate?

Quick Shot looks over at him asking him. Tails looks at the poster and nods.

It looks like they will be in a month and a half.

Not much time left then. But that should be more than enough to give you a refresher course, baby. That is if you're up to it.

I am, I guess. But what if we don't pass when it is time for the main race? Maybe we should have another team on our side?

She's right. We should have a backup team should something go south.

First time I heard something coming out of your ugly mouth that made any sense at all, brother.

Jasper tells him with a fold of his arms and a small chuckle and looks at him impressively. Drake only growls out and narrows his eyes at him.

Watch it, Jasper. Or I'll throttle you into the floor.

And I told you, you do that I'll shoot you again, Drake.

And I told you that if you shoot your son again, you'll be sleeping outside for a year...MICA!

HEY NOW!? NO USING MY REAL NAME, BABY! YOU KNOW THAT!

THEN STOP TRYING TO SHOOT YOUR DAMN SONS!

THERE MY KIDS I'LL DEAL WITH THEM AS I SEE FIT!

Oh shit…

He just went there, didn't he?

Yeah...twenty bucks Bella decks him, Jasp.

You're on.

Jasper and Drake and the rest watch the fight between Quick Shot and Bella like a tennis match.

You're kids...YOU'RE KIDS!? THEY MAY BE YOUR KIDS, BUT THEY'RE STILL MOBIANS!

THAT MAY BE, BUT IT IS HOW I RAISED THEM!

OH, SO WHEN WE HAVE KIDS IS THAT HOW YOU'RE GOING TO TREAT THEM WHEN THEY GET OUT OF HAND?! SHOOT THEM!? IS THAT IT? YOU'RE JUST GOING TO SHOOT THEM EVERY TIME THEY GET OUT OF LINE!?

Bella yells at him as tears of anger fill her eyes.

YES! NO!.. MAYBE IF I HAVE…

Before he could finish what he was going to say, Bella slaps him across the face hard, making his head turn to the side, and everyone winces out and hiss. As he looked back at her, everyone could see a soft red handprint on his face. He looks at her as mixed fillings show across his face. In the past, she had hit before but not with this much anger behind it. Most other times he was out of playfulness or just being annoyed at him. But this time had more sting to it. Tears start to spill over as she looks at him, hating him right now.

Bella…

Quick Shot starts to say but she stops him by holding up her hand.

Just...Just don't Mica, just don't. I don't want to hear it.

But, Bella baby…I didn't mean...

She stops him again and turns around and walks out of the room.

Well, that's twenty bucks you owe me, Jasper, and as for you DAD, nice going...AGAIN.

Drake gets up from where he was and pats Quick Shot's shoulder as he walks off, and takes the twenty Jasper held out for him as he grumbles.

Anyway, I'll go talk with her about this and settle things and save your bacon, pops.

No. I'll do it, Drake. You just stay here and get as much info as you can from Mr. Prowers.

You're digging your own grave, you do know that right, pops?

Yeah, I know I am. But I would never hurt a kid. You were an exception since I knew you could take it with your thick hide.

Still doesn't mean it didn't hurt.

Anyway, Mr. Prowers, pass along what it is we need to do for the preliminaries to Jasper and Drake. I'm going to go find my girl and fix this shit.

Alright, good luck. For no man knows the wrath than that of a woman's scorn.

Tell me about it, Mate.

Quick Shot lets out a sigh and walks out of the room, grabbing his hat he puts it on and heads to go find Bella.

Right, so what are we going to need to do, Mate?

Drake asks him as he sits back down, putting his knives away. With a nod, Tails types away at the computer and tells them.

First off you'll need a team of four…

As Quick Shot exits the lab, he closes the door behind him with a heavy sigh and walks off into the night. After a time he ends up not finding Bella, but Knuckles as he stands on a cliff edge overlooking the ocean. A soft wind blew his dreadlocks about, as he stood there with his arms folded and his back to Quick Shot. Quick Shot looks at him tilting his head and watches him for a moment. Getting a reading on him. From where he was he could tell something laid heavily on his shoulders. To him it looked like the same pose Jasper tends to take when deep in thought. Letting out another sigh, he turns to leave him alone with his thoughts till Knuckles calls out.

I know it isn't my fault. I didn't know, but still as a leader and guardian, it's my duty and responsibility to make sure everyone is safe. I can't help but feel like I failed in that task. If Ivan gets his mitts on that Emerald there is no telling what he will use it for. I swear he is no different than his father, Robotnik.

Stopping and looking over his shoulder at him. He tilts his head and turns around and heads over to him and stands next to him.

I know the feeling, mate. It is never easy being a leader at times. Sometimes you wonder if you're making the right choice, not just for your teammates, but your family...you're friends. All of those you're trying to protect. But sometimes you end up messing up.

Kind of like how you messed up with Bella?

Knuckles looks down at Quick Shot giving a slight smile.

She told you?

No, but I know a woman's scorn when I see one, heh. Not to say she took it out on the poor innocent palms fan over there…

Knuckles points a thumb over his shoulder and Quick Shot looks over and winces a bit.

Eesh…Poor palm fan…

Knuckles chuckles out with a bit of a smile on his face as he speaks once again.

So if you're looking for your girl I saw her heading to the beach before I came up here.

Thanks, mate. So… you wouldn't have any pointers, would you? You know? To cool her off?

Knuckles chuckles out and lets his arms rest to his side.

Sorry, but she's your girl, so I'm staying out of it.

Don't you have one of your own?

Used to, but both didn't work out.

I see. I take it they cheated?

Yeah...something like that.

Both end up going quiet once again for a time, till Knuckles clenches his fist and grunts out.

Knuckles?

Go get Bella, and meet me back at the lab. I may have screwed up this time, but I won't fail all those living on my Island or Mobius, again.

I think it best we wait till morning, Mate. So we can all get some sleep. It's been a long forty-eight hours for us all. I think whatever you've got going on in your head, can wait till then.

Alright. Then let her, and your boys know I wish to see everyone in the morning on the beach.

Alright. But what about you?

I got a few calls to make. I'll see you later.

With that, Knuckles turns around and walks off into the night. Turning around himself, he looks back over the ocean one last time and heads off to go look for Bella.

Back at Monroe Haven the next day… Skye's Workshop...1400 hours…

SKYE! Hey Fox boy, you in here?!

Over here, Eris.

Eris walks in holding her gear as she puts her shades up on her head. She was in a tube top with a denim vest on with torn sleeves, torn-cut short shorts, and had a bandanna on, and a pair of her favorite open-finger gloves. Her high tops make the occasional squeaking sound on the floor as she heads on over to Skye.

Hey, foxy.

Skye holds up a finger, as he double-checks something over and makes sure he got the calculations right. Nodding, he hits enter and looks at her.

Hey, so what did you need?

I was wondering if you knew where the bio-freak is, and Jax. It's time we hold a team meeting and get things going. I've invited Birch and his team over as well for it, and they should be here soon.

Shadow, huh? Hmm...I think I saw him out on the track just a bit ago.

Alright, I'll head out and take a look. When Birch comes with his friends, show them the meeting room, would you, please?

Sure. I'll head up front now to wait for them and show them.

Nodding, Eris takes her shades off and puts them on, and walks out. On her way out Jax comes over to her in a hurry.

Eris. Hey, do you have a moment?

Looking around and making sure no one else was around, he tells her.

So I managed to get a hold of my contact and I got some news.

What sort of news?

She looks at him wearily.

He says he has something that could lure the New Neo Babylon Rogues to you.

You don't say?

I told him you needed it in three days, and he said he would have it ready for you by tomorrow.

Wonderful. I do like being ahead of schedule, but now that means I need to rethink things since everything is moving ahead of time.

Eris thinks for a moment when Jax speaks up.

There is a catch though.

What sort of catch, Jax?

She looks at him with a raised eyebrow.

He said he could help you, but it comes at a price.

What sort of price?

He said with the item he has in mind to help you, he wants something in return.

Such as?

He told me he knows who you are and that you work for G.U.N and he has a good notion that they are working on some kind of new prototype weapon, and he wants it.

Huh? I wasn't aware of G.U.N working on anything new. And it's some kind of prototype huh?

Yeah. Are you sure you don't know anything?

Yeah, unless it was under my father's orders then I have nothing. But I wouldn't put it past G.U.N to be making some kind of new weapon behind closed doors. It wouldn't be the first time they've done that. I can try to look into it. But in truth, you do know that ever since they released us we are no longer of G.U.N right?

I know, and I told him, but he wants whatever they're making.

Alright, tell him he has a deal. But I need time to look into this matter and figure it out but in return, I want what he has first so I can get the Rogues to me.

Alright, I'll let him know.

Good now that is over with, meet me in the meeting room in ten, I need to go find the Bio-Freak.

Are we having our first team meeting?

Yeah, we are. I've invited Birch's team as well for it. So please be on your best behavior.

I will.

Good, now if you excuse me I'm going to go see if I can beat that Bio-Freaks ass off the race track.

With that, she leaves and heads to go find Shadow, and like Skye said she saw him out on the track. Smiling, she heads over to the computer room and takes a seat, and starts typing away till his stats pop up along with the video feed. She watches him for a bit till she presses a button and lights start flashing all around the track as a robotic voice comes over the sound system.

ATTENTION, ATTENTION! BIO-DOME STARTING UP! INITIATING PROGRAM FIFTY-EIGHT, TORRENTIAL THUNDERSTORM STARTING IN T-MINUS THIRTY SECONDS! REPEAT! STARTING PROGRAM FIFTY-EIGHT! TORRENTIAL THUNDERSTORM IN T-MINUS TWENTY-NINE SECONDS...TWENTY-EIGHT SECONDS...TWENTY-SEVEN SECONDS...

Skye what is going on here?! I didn't ask for any changes in the race track!

Giggling out, Eris hits the systems com button and speaks coyly.

Sorry Bio-Freak but Skye isn't here right now. He's heading up front to meet with Birch and his team for our first meeting. But till then, let us see what you have.

BELLADONNA!

TEN SECONDS...NINE SECONDS...EIGHT SECONDS…

Get ready, Shadow because here it comes, and I think I'll be adding a bit of EXTRA thunder to the mix.

BELLADONNA, DON'T YOU DARE!

Eris giggles as she speaks once more.

Think of this as a little...TRIAL...run if you would? Remember, Shadow, we will be in all kinds of weather during the World Grand PRIX, so this will test your abilities and see if you have what it takes to truly play with the big boys.

Eris giggles out as she tilts her head and smiles at hearing footsteps behind her. Smiling, she speaks.

Oh, and I'll be sending Team Mystic Ruins out to truly test you. This way I get to see if you can handle what is to come. Is that alright with you Birch?

Yeah, fine by me. Micha, Tinnie?

Y-yeah...I guess so.

Oh oh oh oh….Can I use my best stash of bombs!? I WANT PAYBACK FOR BEING CALLED A DUCK! I'M A WOODPECKER!

Eris giggles out, smiling.

You know, maybe you are not so bad after all...Tinnie was it?

Yep!

Alright if you can do it without destroying my track fully, I'll allow it. But what of you Weasel Wolf? You look a little jittery?

N-N-No I'm alright…heh…

Micha swallows nervously.

Really? It looks like your fur is standing on end to me. Tell you what…

Eris stands up and walks over to her, and behind her and leans in and places her hands on her shoulder, and leans in and smiles.

Why don't you stay here and watch with me, hmm?

ATTENTION...ATTENTION! BIO-DOME IS NOW UP AND RUNNING, AND PROGRAM FIFTY-EIGHT IS NOW IN SESSION! REPEAT, PROGRAM-FIFTY-EIGHT IS NOT IN SESSION!

At that moment the sound of thunder goes off, and Micha screams out and ducks down covering her ears, and starts shaking. Eris looks down at her wide eye, as the fur on the back of her neck starts to stand on end as well but she ignores it as Birch goes over to Micha and helps her up.

Micha snap out of it! You're better than this! You've never let your Astraphobia get the better of you before. This is no different than any other race. Just think of it as such and you got this.

Micha looks at Birch and they hold their gaze for a moment. After a bit, she nods and composes herself.

Right, let's do this then. Let's show him what Team Mystic Ruins is all about!

YEAH! LET'S GO!

Eris smiles nodding as she sets things up.

Hurry out to the starting line. I'll hit the count down, and watch from here. Also, DON'T go easy on him. Throw everything you have at him. TAKE. HIM. DOWN!

Birch and the girls nod as they hurry out to the starting line. Chuckling out darkly she types away at the computer and sets things up. She watches the cameras as she sees they get ready. Nodding she speaks to them as they hop on their Gear. She keeps watching, waiting for Shadow to cross the starting line. As she sees him nearing she starts the countdown…

Alright get ready in...ten...nine...eight...seven...six...five...four...three...two...one...NOW!

Eris slams her hand down on the launch button just as Shadow goes flying by and right behind him, Team Mystic Ruins follows him. As they go flying off after him, a new set of footsteps are heard, and with them the sound of soft tapping of claws. Smiling, she types away at the computer and speaks to who had come in.

S-pup head on out there and get me a K-nine eye view if you would please. Oh, and make sure you have your special gear on. I used Program fifty-eight this time around, with a little extra juice.

S-Pup barks out and hurries out there as he deploys his special weather gear. Once outside he runs down the rack way and jumps up into the air and folds his legs under him and takes off.

You do know that the cameras will show everything right?

Yes, but not from the skies they won't. I thought you were going to fix that problem.

Yeah, I'm in the process of working on something. But why the extra bit of juice if…

Skye stops when he sees who's out on the race track.

ERIS ARE YOU CRAZY!? ARE YOU TRYING TO GET SHADOW KILLED?!

So what if I am? Nothing out of the norm for me if you think about it. I mean at least this way he can be prepared for the upcoming preliminaries and the World Grand PRIX should we make it...Oh, who am I kidding? Of course, we will make it. This is me after all. Though without my original team I don't know now. We'll be lucky if we make the top ten with enough points to pass.

Eris sighs as she looks back at the video feed and sees S-pup now flying high in the sky recording everything.

You know? Now that I think about it this could be a good opportunity to truly test us all.

What do you mean?

Easy, I know you are the mechanic on our team, but you are also a racer as well. Meaning your Team Cosmic Eclipse's flier. So with you, me, and Jax as our power specialists this will give us a chance to work as a team and test one another's abilities, weaknesses, and strengths as a team. Learn what is out of whack with one another, and improve it. Not to say give us a chance to work in different weather conditions as well since we don't know what to expect in the coming Races.

True. But there is one problem.

And that would be?

I'm not done fixing Jax's gear yet. When you came to find me I was just inputting the last of the data and it's not done downloading yet, and till it is it won't work right.

I see. Is there an extra gear he could use till then?

Yeah, I think so. But it's a bit of an older model.

Then get it prepped and ready to go.

Are you sure this is a good idea? I mean...what if someone got hurt?

Eris scoffs and looks back at the cameras and types away at the computer and pages Jax.

In the meeting room…

The computer in the room comes on and static fills the screen for a moment till Eris' face shows up. Jax was relaxing in a chair with his eyes closed as he waited for everyone to show up.

GET YOU'RE DAMN FEET OFF THE FUCKING TABLE RIGHT NOW COUGAR, BEFORE I SKIN YOU ALIVE!

Jax screams out surprised by Eris and falls over. Groaning out, he peeks up over the table rubbing his head. Eris only rolls her eyes at him shaking her head.

Eris...hey...OW...my head…

Well, that is what you get for putting your feet on the table. Now stop messing around and meet me at the race track now. We're going to train a little.

But my Gear?

Don't worry, Skye has a backup you can use for now. Now hurry, you have five minutes to get down here, or you're off the team and on the bench. Got it?!

On my way now!

Jax hurries and gets up and runs out the door and to the race track. Nodding Eris ends the transmission.

Back with Eris and Skye…

Right, Jax is on his way now, meet him at the docks and get that gear ready.

Alright. But Eris…

I SAID GO GET THAT BACKUP GEAR READY NOW! THAT'S AN ORDER, SKYE!

Eris turns around yelling at him. He flinches and nods, running off to go do as he was told to. Scoffing, she turns around and addresses S-Pup.

S-pup do you hear me, boy?

S-pup barks out and Eris smiles.

Good, no listen up boy, I want you to go around and give everyone a com-link so that I can talk with them. I'm coming out onto the track with Sky and Jax so have some ready for us as well.

S-Pup barks out and flies off as Eris speaks to the others.

Alright, listen up everyone. I'm having S-pup come around and hand you all Com-links, I'm coming out to the race track with Sky and Jax, and we're gonna play a little game. I'll explain things once we're down there.

Eris types away at the computer setting things up just as Jax bursts into the room.

I'M HERE! I'M READY! AM I ON TIME?! AM I STILL ON THE TEAM!?

Eris chuckles rolling her eyes.

Yes, you're on time, Jax. Now come on, let's go meet up with Skye.

Panting trying to catch his breath he follows her as she grabs her gear she left by the door when she first came in and they head on down where Skye was standing by with his gear and a backup for Jax.

This one should work for you for now why yours is finishing up. But please be careful with it, just because it's an older model doesn't mean it isn't special.

Thanks. But what's so special about it?

It belongs to my uncle Knuckles, and I haven't seen him in some time due to him having to stay up on the Floating Island and watch over it.

I see. I promise to be careful with it.

Thank you.

If your two are ready, let's go. And be prepared for anything this storm has for us. I have a timer set for an hour so that should give us a good run to learn one another's moves and more. Watch your back and be ready for anything.

RIGHT!

Both Jax and Skye talk together. As they head out, they soon get pelted by the rainfall, and lighting and thunder go off overhead. A bolt of lightning strikes down in the middle of the field of grass making Skye eep out and his tails fluff out a bit. Eris cocks an eyebrow at him and he chuckles sheepishly as Jax lets out a low impressed whistle.

Man, that is one nasty storm you got going, Eris.

Thanks. Oh and don't worry if you get hit. Even though it is to mimic a real storm, the lighting only has enough juice in it to give you a good shock but not kill you.

But won't it be twice as a shock with being wet?

Maybe?

Eris says with a shrug.

But you chicken out now, you're off the team. The same goes for you, Skye.

Skye and Jax look at one another and after a moment they nod.

We're ready, Eris. So let's do this.

Skye tells her. With a nod, they walk out as she puts two fingers to her lips and whistles. After a moment S-pup shows up and hands them their com-links and she tells him to remotely connect to the computer inside. Barking he does as Eris puts her com-link in and tests it.

Testing...one two three. Testing? Birch, can you and the girls hear me?

Loud and clear baby.

What about you Bio-freak? Can you hear me?

Yeah, I hear you, Belladonna.

Scoffing Eris goes on.

So about that game, I said we're gonna play? It goes like this. It will be Team Cosmic Eclipse versus Team Mystic Ruins, versus Shadow the Hedgehog. The goal is whoever can knock Shadow off his gear first wins. And whoever wins, even if it is just one person from either team, who can knock him his gear, will win something special from yours truly. Also if every member of your team ends up being knocked off their gear you're out. Meaning that if even one gets knocked off they have to sit out the rest of the game. Fair enough?

But what if your team wins, Miss Monroe?

Well, Micha if we win, then I'll figure something out. Also, if you would please, call me Eris. Now, this is an all-out no-hold bar race. Meaning anything goes. Use every trick you have up your sleeves and get ready. We're launching in...three...two...one...NOW!

Eris, Jax, and Skye go flying just as Shadow goes flying by. Right behind them were Birch, Micha, and Tinnie. Eris puts on a boost of speed and catches up with Shadow. He sees her coming on his right side and narrows his eyes as she speaks to her via the com-links.

Don't think I'll go down easy bird butt.

Or trust me, you will. Because it's six against one. There is no way you can take us all down.

Wanna bet? Besides you never said what I would win if I took you all down.

True, kind of space that. Alright, Bio-Freak what do you want if you win?

Without hesitation, he tells her.

I want the Chaos Emerald if I win.

Before she could answer Birch speaks up.

FORGET IT HEDGEHOG! YOU'RE NOT GETTING IT!

Easy baby. But Birch is right. That is off the table. So you're going to have to pick something else.

Very well, then if I win I get to pick my team for the upcoming preliminaries and the World Grand PRIX.

YOU'RE TEAM!?

Yeah, MY team.

What are you talking about?

It is as I say it is. I'm going to form a team of my own and join up with Cosmic Eclipse. I already know you're going to keep me benched if you can help it and not let me race. At least this way if I have my own team and join up with yours then I have a shot at racing. And even if you told me no then, you can't stop me.

He's right, Eris. Even if he does end up with his own team, and he joins up with Cosmic Eclipse and the race calls for a two-team race, you won't be able to say no because it will more than likely be picked at random.

Eris curses out knowing that Skye was right. And right now with only a month and a half left she couldn't be too picky right now. Sighing out annoyed glares at Shadow.

Fine! But you have to follow the rules I set for the upcoming preliminaries got it? Meaning that, just like everyone else, if you get an envelope with my team's logo on it then you are a possible shoo-in got it?

Deal.

Good, now if I were you I'd watch your left side.

Huh?

Shadow looks to his left and sees Birch reading an icy punch at him and at the last second he jumps up and does a flip as the punch misses him. Shadows Gear wobbles a bit but he lands on it with ease and regains control.

Not fair baby.

Hey, I told you anything goes. Meaning that this goes as well.

What…

Before he could finish what he was gonna say, she hits her boosters and sends a roundhouse kick at him, barely giving him time to block her attack. Chuckling out he looks at her and smiles. She smiles back at him and gives him a cute little face and pulls her leg free and jumps up and flips over and lands on her feet and picks up her gear and runs off and hops back on it and starts to ride Jax's slipstream to regain speed.

Nice going Silverwolf. Now speed up and let me slingshot off you!

Right, hold on and keep on my tail!

On my mark...NOW!

Jax pulls a one-eighty and Eris goes flying like a bullet from a gun. She gains speed and goes right after Micha who was far ahead of her. Chuckling out she yells out…

CRYSTAL DAGGERS!

Huh?

Micha looks behind her and her eyes widen as about twenty crystal-like daggers form and shoot at her. Thinking fast, Micha turns around and readies her guns calling out…

DESTINY'S STAR SHOT!

She shoots her guns and several bullets come out at once and break apart and head right for the daggers coming at her. Some hit them and break them but some make it through and hit Micha, making her cry out.

MICHA!?

Birch calls out as he looks behind him and sees her falling behind.

Eris what the fucking hell?!

Hey, I said anything goes, and I meant anything goes.

You attacked Micha!

She's fine, trust me that wasn't even my full power, she only got nicked nothing more.

Even still that hurt!

Quit your whining weasel wolf, you're fine. We have a First-Aid kit in S-pup to patch you up later. Now unless you wish to lose, get out of my WAY!

GAAH!

Micha screams out as she is knocked off her gear and sent flying. She was about to hit the ground when Tinnie came out of nowhere and grabbed her hand and pulled her up onto her gear at the last second.

TINNIE!?

Don't worry Michies, you know I would never leave you hanging!

Eris looks behind her and smiles with a nod. Looking back ahead she focuses on Birch next.

Nice work, Tinnie, on saving Micha back there. But don't think I'll go easy on you for it.

BRING IT BITCH! I GOT AN EXTRA SPECIAL BOMB JUST FOR YOU!

Now, now, Tinnie, shouldn't you save the bombs for Shadow? I mean you do want to get him back for calling you a duck right?

OH YEAH! I FORGOT ABOUT THAT! Thanks for reminding me, bird butt!

Eris nearly runs into Skye upon hearing that. She looks over her shoulders after regaining control and narrows her eyes as a chuckling comes over the com-links.

Nice one Tinnie, she'll be on your feathery ass now instead of me. So thanks for that.

Don't think for a moment I'll be letting up on you, Bio-Freak. I'll be letting it go for now, but next time I'll pluck her alive…

Eris says in a cold dark and deadly tone making even Birch, and the rest feel the sheer cold promise behind it. But to Tinnie, it was as if it didn't phase her much.

Tinnie, for now on you are not to be calling her that, and that is an order. Do you understand me?

Aw, but why? I mean why is she called that? She's not a bird like me. She's a fox.

She's a Lyox. A Lynx Fox cross.

Skye tells her.

Ooooh…. That's so cool. But she looks like a fox.

Trust me, her tail is a lot shorter than mine, and her ears have tufts on them as a lynx would.

Huh, so she's a kitty fox huh? Does she purr when she is petted?

WHAT!?

Eris looks DUMBFOUNDED at Skye who looked confused.

Yeah I mean, cats purr when they're petted right?

Well...I...well...I...Guess so?... Yeah?

So if you are a cat then if I were to pet you, you should purr like a kitty!

Eris looks at Skye who only shrugs.

Oh no...why am I getting a bad feeling all of a sudden!?

You should be worried, Eris. Heh…

Mich tells her as she hops back on her Gear and flies off.

BIRCH HELP ME!

Sorry but not on your team, baby. And when it comes to Tinnie and cats there is no stopping her. If I were you I'd start flying why you can. Because once Tinnie gets going she will stop at nothing to prove her point.

SHE TOUCHES ME I'LL SERVE HER FOR DINNER TONIGHT! ROASTED WOODPECKER SOUNDS REAL GOOD RIGHT NOW!

HERE KITTY KITTY KITTY! TINNIE IS COMING FOR YOU!

Oh shit! JAX SLINGSHOT AT ONCE! NOW HURRY! HURRY! HURRY!

Eris hits her boosters and flies off as fast as she can and starts riding Jax's slipstream once again as she urges him to go faster. On the other end, chuckling could be heard from both Birch and Shadow, as Micha's voice comes over.

Tinnie number twenty-seven. That is sure to get you to your new kitty!

MICHA YOU BITCH! Wait? What's… number twenty-seven? Birch!? Birch what is number twenty-seven?!

Sorry, can't help you, baby.

BIRCH YOU ASSHOLE!

HA HA HA! Consider it payback for a moment ago! HA HA HA!

NO NO NO NO!

Eris panics just as Jax yells out…

NOW, ERIS!

At the same time, Eris goes shooting off, and Micha and Tinnie get ready and do their stunt. Micha takes hold of Tinnie by her hands and swings her around and she lets her go and Tinnie goes flying off right after Eris. But at the last second, Jax flies right in front of her and they go falling off his gear and roll head over heels on the wet ground as Tinnie clings to him and starts petting him.

Heh, soft kitty, warm kitty...he he he.

Sorry kid, but that isn't gonna work on me.

Huh? HEY! You're not the kitty fox!

No, last I checked I was a cougar. And just like Lynxes, we purr as well. But it won't work on me, not unless you know how to do it, and only my fiance knows how to do it. So you can try it if you like but it…

Tinnie ends up petting right behind his left ear at a particular spot and right away Jax starts to purr.

FOUND IT!

WHAT!? HOW! ONLY MY FIANCE KNOWS THAT SPOT, AND HOW TO DO IT!?

Chuckling was heard as Birch answered.

Tinnie is notorious for finding that right spot.

CHAOS FUCKING DAMN IT! WHEN MY FIANCE HEARS ABOUT THIS SHE...WON'T...be...ooo...right there...that's the spot…NO, WAIT! STOP THAT RIGHT NOW YOU DAMN CRAZY DUCK!

Jax shoves Tinnie off him and stands up at the same time she looks up and her eyes widen and she growls out at him.

DUCK! DUCK!? I'M A WOODPECKER YOU NO GOOD FLEA-INFESTED PILE OF RAT SHIT! GERONIMO!

Oh…shit…

Tinnie leaps at him at the same time he tries to make a run for it, but he isn't fast enough and she tackles him to the ground and starts hitting him. He manages to push her off and makes a run for it as she chases him around the grassy part of the track.

GET BACK HERE RIGHT NOW SO I CAN KILL YOU! YOU'RE A BAD KITTY! BAD BAD BAD KITTY!

WHAT!? NO !? DON'T YOU DARE THROW THOSE BOMBS AT ME YOU CRAZY DUCK!

WOODPECKER! I'M A WOODPECKER! DO I LOOK OR SOUND LIKE A DUCK!?

Tinnie yells out as a quack escapes her bill making her and Jax stop and look at one another blinking.

That... sounded like a…

Before he could finish she throws a bomb at him and he catches it looking down at it, and before he had time to realize it was lit, even with all the rain, he panics as it explodes and sends him flying, and with it a not too happy Tinnie. Eris looks over to her left, as does everyone else as they watch Jax try to fight off Tinnie.

Ah...Should we...I don't know...like HELP?

Micha asks worriedly.

Something tells me that would not be a good idea. I don't know why, but your friend scares me.

Skye states a little worried.

Yeah, when Tinnie gets in a mood that can happen, Skye.

Birch tells him with a sigh and a shake of his head.

Anyway, we're now two even on teams and Shadow is still in the lead. Meaning…

Meaning we best hurry up. So sorry about this fox boy, you're cute and all, but see you!

Micha hits her boosters and attacks Skye with a roundhouse kick taking him off guard where he goes flying past Birch who grabs his tails and swings him around and around and lets him go and he is sent flying into the wall of the race track where he hits it hard and slides down it. He hits the ground and groans as Eris yells out.

NOT COOL GUYS! SO NOT COOL!

Hey, you said anything goes!

Yeah...shit...I did. So that does count. Don't think you'll get the best of me.

I would have it no other way...CRYSTAL QUEEN…

At hearing her racing name, Eris chuckles out and she gets ready. Not wasting a moment, she stops at one of the air stations dotted around the track, fills up, and goes flying off once again. For the next forty-five minutes, it was just Birch, Micha, her, and Shadow. All four trying to take one another out. Everyone throwing out their best move sets and then some. Even after the hour had passed they were still at it. It was nearing four in the afternoon when Eris finally took down Micha leaving her, Shadow, and Birch. But Birch didn't last long, maybe an hour longer, as Shadow managed to shoot him down with a Chaos Spear leaving just her and Shadow now.

Give it up Eris, you can't beat me!

Oh, please Bio-Freak. I know I can. I'm in the same league as you, if not better.

I know you are, but I won't lose to you, twitter butt.

We'll see about that. I think it's time we finish this because I don't know about you, but I haven't eaten since six this morning, so I'm pretty hungry. So why don't we up the deal some. Just you and me?

Alright, what do you have?

The winner gets to pick dinner out, and the loser has to pay. And to top it off, if you win you get to pick your team out.

And if you win?

Then I'll pay to have your car AND motorcycle detailed at your choice of place. And if I just happen to lose, then you can pick something other than the Chaos Emerald out since the car and motorcycle will be one deal.

Alright, see if I have this. If I win, you pay to have my car and motorcycle detailed at my place of choice, and I get to pick my team and pick one other thing. But if you win, what do you get out of all of this?

Easy, if I win you have to either be benched the whole time during the preliminaries and Grand Prix, or pack up and leave and never show your face to me again, and I get to pick dinner and you have to pay.

Deal.

Then we start once we cross the starting line together. Skye if you would please?

Right!

Skye flies out to the middle of the starting line and gets ready.

The rules are still the same. The first one to get knocked out of their gear wins. But should both sides fall off, then the first to get up wins. On my mark...three...two...one...GO!

Shadow and Eris go flying by Skye and at once Eris tries to take on Shadow. But he was ready for it. They end up sending blow for blow at one another, both evenly matched. Thunder and lighting go off as a bolt comes crashing down and right in front of them, making Eris nearly go flying off her gear. But at the last second Shadow catches her and helps steady her. She looks at him a moment, and he smiles at her.

Would be a shame if you lose due to bad weather, wouldn't it?

Y-yeah…

Eris narrows her eyes and shoves him off her as she pushes at him. He doesn't fall off, only wobbles a bit but he regains his balance, and looking behind her Eris growls and getting sick of this cat and mouse game she takes it up a notch. She hits her booster and goes flying off as she stops once more at an air station and fills up. Just as it finishes, Shadow comes by just as she hops on and flies off. He fills his gear up and was right behind her.

In Eris' mind…

"Get ready Trinity, I'm going to need something to take him down, yet not give us away.

Don't worry I have something in mind. I've gained enough of my powers back over the last few weeks. I think I can help out.

Good on my mark then… and NOW!"

Eris kicks at Shadow but he blocks it as Eris' right arm from her elbow down, starts to form into a crystal blade. But unlike the other attacks, this one took on a different tint in color. Growling out, she swipes at him, catching him off guard she manages to hit him and leave a cut over his left eye. He hisses out and steps on his brakes causing him to slow down, as he covers his eye with a hand. Growling, he removes his hand and sees blood on it. Scoffing, he looks at Eris who was licking the blood off her blade slowly. He narrows his right eye at her as he steps on the booster button a little, giving him some speed.

So that is how you wanna play it huh? Fine, you wanna play dirty then so can I.

Hey, I did say anything goes. So let's go.

Eris chuckles out as she speeds off with Shadow behind her. Growling, Shadow calls forth a Chaos Blade and gets ready to go head to head with her again. As he comes up behind her he swings at her but she blocks it as they lock blades. They try to dominate the other but Eris pushes him off and kicks him. This was like this for a good long two hours more. Both not showing signs of tiring out, or it looked like it from both the sky cams from S-pup and the cameras below. But in truth, Eris was starting to tire out, as was Shadow. Both were hurt, and they could barely stand up on their gear.

I don't like this. Shouldn't we do something to stop them? They've been going at it for hours now!

Sorry but if I step in Eris will have my tails for it.

Skye states watching on.

What if we send Tinnie out there with one of her bombs?

No, Micha.

But BIRCH!?

I said no! AND I MEAN IT! Eris can handle herself out there. I know she can.

Hey ah...can someone get her OFF me, please!?

Huh? OH!? Tinnie enough of that now.

Micha runs over to help Jax as Birch and Skye watch on. Out on the race track, it looked as if things were getting even more serious than before. As they watch on, Micha tries to pull Tinnie off Jax when an explosion. Tinnie, Jax, and Micha look up as Birch and Skye cover their faces from the flying mud.

What just happened?!

Micha runs over to the railing and looks at where the explosion came from. Jax runs over as well with Tinnie on his back as they all watch and wait for the mud cloud to settle down.

Birch?!

Not sure. Come on!

Birch jumps from the stands and down to the race track, and leads the way as everyone hops on their gear, everyone but Tinnie who stays on Jax's back and flies over to see what happened. As they near, the cloud settles and they see both Shadow and Eris both off their gear and in the mug.

ERIS!? SHADOW?! OH NO!

Mich starts to run over but Birch thrusts an arm out stopping her. She looks at him worried as he speaks.

Skye call it. Now!

Huh? Oh, right…

Skye hurries over and calls it.

As the rules stated if both fall off their gear then the first one to get up wins. You have one minute to get up or it's a draw. Time starts now!

Skye looks at his wrist watch watching the time. Both Eris and Shadow groan out as they try to get up. Eris was nearly there but she slips in the mud and falls back down. Shadow got a bit further than her but his foot slipped in the mud and he fell back down.

Heh, mud...looks good...on you, factory reject.

I...I could say the same...about you...bird butt.

Shadow chuckles out as does Eris.

Thirty seconds before it is a draw.

Eris tries again as does Shadow. Eris rolls over and gets up on her hands and knees and tries to get up as Skye calls out.

Fifteen seconds...fourteen...thirteen…

Grunting out Eris gets a foot under and pushes herself up but it slips and she is back in the mud.

Eight seconds...seven seconds...six seconds….

Shadow manages to get even farther than her and is now in a crouching pose. Panting he slowly gets up as Skye counts down the final seconds.

Five seconds...four seconds...three seconds…

With a final grunt Eris tries to get up before him, but at the last second Shadow yells out and stands up.

AND SHADOW WINS!

Eris groans out as she lets herself fall back into the mud. She rolls over and places a muddy arm over her eyes as the rain slows down and shuts off. Tinnie and the others cheer as he limps over to Eris and holds out a hand. He grunts out at her and she looks up at him annoyed.

I want shrimp, Bio-Freak. Triple the amount. And not that mini cocktail shit either. I want the huge jumbo kind. Chaos I feel like I haven't eaten in days…

Shadow chuckles out and smiles at her.

Then I know just the place, and it delivers.

He smiles at her with a grunt. She scoffs, rolling her eyes as she takes his hand. He helps her up, but she slips in the mud again, nearly taking Shadow with her, but he lets her go and she falls back in. She growls at him and looks up at him annoyed.

Biiiooo-FREAK!

Shadow chuckles out as she gets up and flings mud at him. It misses him just as Birch comes over to help her, and Shadow moves his head to the side and it hits Birch right in the face. He stops and blinks a couple of times and looks down at Eris who giggles sheepishly.

Sorry baby, He moved! Blame him! It was meant for him!

Whipping the mud off his face, he looks at her and bends down and scoops up some much and forms it into a ball, and glares at her.

OH, COME ON BABY! IT WASN'T MY…

Before she could finish he flings it at her and it hits her in the face, making Shadow chuckle out as he walks off, lifting a hand in the air waving them off.

I'll get started on…

But before he could finish, he was hit in the back of the head with a mud ball. Growling out, and looking behind him and narrowing his eyes he glares at everyone.

Who was it…

Everyone looks at one another shaking their heads. But his eyes rest on Skye and look at his hands.

Skyyyeeee…

Huh?

Skye looks at his hands and sees mud on them.

How did that get there?

He looks up and starts to freak out as he sees the annoyed look on Shadow's face, and looks around in a panic and sees Tinnie off to the side just behind Jax, and she peeks out and waves at him with mud on her hands as she waves at him and gives him a big cheesy grin.

SKYE "TAILS" PROWER!

It wasn't me! IT WAS TINNIE! I SWEAR! IT WAS TINNIE!

OK, you're dead, now TJ.

Shadow scoops up some mud and throws it at him. But he cries out and ducks in time and it hits Micha instead who yells out.

HEY! WATCH WHERE YOU'RE THROWING THAT STUFF, HEDGEHOG!

Micha yells out as she scoops up some and throws it at Shadow, and before long a Mudball fight breaks out. Though it only lasted about forty minutes it left everyone in somewhat high spirits after the race. Finally tired and everyone covered in mud, Birch helps Eris up, places her arm around his neck, and helps her walk off. As they walk off, S-pup comes flying down and sets up a new program to help dry out the Bio-Dome faster, and times it to shut down once done.

So what of this meeting you wanted to have?

Jax asked her.

We'll have it once we're all washed up and clean. I for one do not wish to have mud in my house, so everyone is to head to Skye's workshop and use his showers there. I get first dibs. I think I have mud in places that shouldn't be there.

Eris states in a deadpan tone as Shadow speaks after her.

Same here. There are only two showers in his workshop and this mud is starting to sink into my quills, making them feel heavier than they are. Though if a CERTAIN TWIN TAIL FOX hadn't started a MUDBALL fight…SKYE…

I told you it wasn't ME! IT WAS TINNIE! SHE FRAMED ME!

It was me! Yep, all me! That was my payback for calling me a DUCK! WHEN I'M A WOODPECKER!

I TOLD YOU, SHADOW!... You know I would never do that to you…not after that time you hung me up by my tails when I was just a little kit, heh…

Shadow looks over at Tinnie who had a huge grin on her face, looking proud. Scoffing, and rolling his eyes he looks back at Skye with a sigh.

I'm sorry, Skye. I should have known you wouldn't try that kind of stuff.

It's alright. But you have to admit, it was fun.

Shadow scoffs out with a small smile as Eris chimes in.

Anyway, now that is out of the way, Shadow is right about the showers. Skye, you are the cleanest of us, do you think you could head to my room and get me something to wear?

Sure. What about you Shadow? Should I get you something as well?

Would you, please?

Nodding, Skye hurries off as they head into his workshop. Birch helps Eris into one of the showers and leaves as Shadow gets into the other and both start to shower. After an hour and a half, everyone was once again clean.

Hey thanks again for lending me some clothing, Eris.

No worries, and you can keep them, they're an old set of clothing I had so no worries. Same for you Tinnie.

Wowie, thanks!

Now that we're all clean, let's head to the house so Shadow can order food. And feel free to order whatever you like so long as it is from the place Shadow picks, and I best get my triple helping of jumbo shrimp...HEDGEHOG!

Watch your tone or you'll get the mini cocktail shrimp… BELLADONNA.

Shadow gives her a smug look and she nods and turns hard on her heels and starts to walk off.

Shutting up! Definitely shutting up now and heading to the house. I'll see you all there.

Shadow and the rest chuckle out as they follow behind her. Once back Eris heads for the second-floor lounging Theater room and flops down on one of the oversized extra soft chairs. Behind her were Skye and the others who all found places to sit as Shadow ordered food.

Alright, they said they should be in about an hour. We're the last order for the night so we got lucky. And since you did say everyone could order what they wanted, I made sure to get extras of everything. Also, the bill is going to be, one-thirty-seven, ninety-eight.

Holy shit...please tell me that is because of my shrimp!?

She looks at everyone as they chuckle out sheepishly.

I got my favorite when I found out Shadow ordering from The Golden Dragon.

Skye tells her as Micha speaks up.

Same here. I always get the lobster combo.

I just picked whatever looked good, and since you were paying, probably the most expensive meal. I think it was the Emperor's Sea Palace?

Jax tells her.

Oh for the love of CHAOS….

Eris facepalms as she looks at Birch worried.

Lucky for you, baby, I can't have shellfish. So I got two peeking ducks and a couple of rice dishes.

Why can't you have Shellfish?

Allergic to shellfish.

Ah. Shadow?

I got myself combo number two off their extra special menu.

Do I even wanna know what you got, Tinnie?

Imma have a bit of everyone's food. I'm not too picky.

Touch my shrimp, and I'll roast you alive, WOODPECKER….KAPSCH!?

Loud and clear, Mon Capetian!

Tinnie salutes her.

Alright well, it's done, so now why we wait let's get to the meeting. Normally we'd do it in the meeting room but I can have S-pup forward everything over to the movie screen. S-pup would you please?

Barking he does as asked and up on the movie screen and Eris stands up with a groan, still being sore from the fight she and Shadow had not too long ago, and goes over everything as S-pup hands her a tablet. As she types at it, everything she needs pops up.

Right, listen up. The preliminaries are coming in less than two months. Meaning we have little time to practice in...and…

Eris lets a sigh out as she looks over at Shadow.

And gives you time to find your three team members. Remember you need one who has to utilize flying and power type Gear, not to say a backup member as well. So think hard about it and keep a lookout, Shadow.

I already know, Bird butt. I'm not stupid. You forget I used to Race myself.

Yeah…Whatever…

Eris tells him with a roll of her eyes.

Now as you know within the preliminaries every team from all over Mobius will be out there gunning for the tops spots, and not just teams but single EGR' as well looking to join up with existing teams, or form their teams in time for the Grand PRIX, and possibly form larger teams like Cosmic Eclipse.

Eris types away at the tablet as her team logo comes up along with several others, one being Birch's team logo which consisted of a Mayan Temple with a gem above the top of it, along with nearly five-hundred plus empty spots after them.

They have yet to announce the date and time of the preliminaries but I do know that if they are anything like in the past then they will last for about three days and part of the night. Every time the location is different, as well as the end. Here in the next few days, they should be sending word out when the date is and what we are to expect. Throughout that time, Shadow, you're to start looking for your team and backup. Birch, have you spoken to Tinnie yet, and found your replacement?

Wait? What is Eris talking about, Birch?

Micha looks at him worried.

Letting out a sigh, Birch Stands up and rubs the back of his head letting his arm fall to the side, and smiles sadly.

It's Tinnie's punishment. The night we came for the Owls, we talked and came up with a suitable punishment for you, Tinnie. I'm sorry Tinnie but until further notice, you are on the bench for the preliminaries, and possibly for the Grand PRIX.

WHAT!? BIRCH YOU CAN'T DO THAT!?

Micha stands up yelling at him.

IT'S EITHER THAT MICHA OR I KICK HER FROM THE TEAM AND YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED LAST TIME!

BUT EVEN STILL! TO GO AND BENCH HER!?

SHE COULD HAVE SERIOUSLY HURT PEOPLE, MICHA AND YOU KNOW THAT! HELL, SHE COULD HAVE HURT ERIS!

COME ON THERE HAS GOT TO BE ANOTHER WAY! WHAT IF WE TOOK…

NO MICHA! I'M THE LEADER OF THE TEAM AND WHAT I SAY GOES!

WHAT ABOUT MY TWO CENTS!?

Everyone looks at Tinnie who didn't look too happy about the news of being benched. Sighing out, Birch rubs his temples and folds his arms.

My mind is made up, Tinnie, I'm sorry. But I warned you the next time you endangered people, it would cost you. It will only be for the preliminaries, when and IF we pass and you manage to behave till we manage to get a spot for the Grand PRIX, then I'll think about letting you back on. But at least this way with the new member we will have a bit of time to get to know them, train with them, and see how they do.

B-but to BENCH me…?

Tinnie asks him, giving him the most adorable puppy dog eyes ever as tears start to well up. Birch sees this and closes his eyes and looks away as he folds his ears back trying to ignore her.

It's not gonna work, Tinnie. My mind is made up and that's final!

Eh, I tried.

Birch opens an eye and looks at her and sees she had gone and sat back down.

Wait? That's it? No fighting back? No whining, or crying? No saying I'm gonna regret it later on?

Nope.

O…kay...then…?

Birch lets his arms fall to his side and shrugs. But Micha on the other hand didn't like it and scoffed and she sat back down in a huff.

Well now that is taken over with, let's move on. Now me and my team, before we move back here…

Moved back?

Micha looks up at Eris confused.

Yes, before coming back home I was working for G.U.N I, Shadow, Skye, and Jax are all part of G.U.N. That is a story of its own so I would like to move on thank you.

Sure, I guess?

Micha shrugs and sits back folding her arms.

Right now as I was saying before we came back here we were handed some files for potential EGR, but also when I was allowed to finally leave G.U.N for a time, that gave me the right to follow my path to find my own riders. WHICH I plan to do.

Eris types away at the tablet and fourteen files of teams come up, along with fifteen potential backup members.

These are the team files we were given. I haven't looked them over since at the time my mind was somewhere else. But Birch, Shadow you may pick who you wish if you like, I do know that these teams will more than likely be in the preliminaries along with the single riders.

Once again she types away at the tablet adding them to the empty spots on the entry list.

I was also given video files as well on the teams and singles. So I wanna watch some of them tonight and learn their moves. In the end, I wish for us to watch them in real life to truly see what they're made of and how well they work with others, but if they do end up joining the preliminaries, I want to keep a watch on them during it all, and if I see what I like, then I'll be handing out my calling card.

Typing away at the tablet and Team Cosmic Eclipse's calling card shows up and slowly spins.

This is my team's Calling card. Whoever ends up with one of these will be allowed to come to a special event hosted by me, try out for my team and become one of the fourteen members to join Cosmic Eclipse, along with fifteen backups. Be warned some teams will more than likely be split up and reformed into new teams. This alone could cause some trouble. So I need you all to keep watch.

Eris types away at the tablet again as a much fancier digital card shows up.

It used to be that after every preliminary and Post race I would end up hosting a couple of gatherings to congratulate the ones who have made it during the preliminaries, and those who have made it to the post-race just before the final round. I'm hoping that doing this again will relieve tension among the teams should they end up being split up. I am picky when it comes to finding the right team members and go on my own gut, not some random people that are forced onto me.

Eris looks over at Shadow glaring at him. He looks at her and their eyes lock and she speaks without looking away.

Like SOME people I know and are in THIS room as I speak…

I don't know WHAT you're implying...Belladonna…

No, you wouldn't. Wouldn't you...HEDGEHOG...

Shadow scoffs and he folds his arms and looks away with a roll of his eyes. Birch and the others look between the two watching them should something happen. But nothing more did and Eris went on.

AHEM… So as I was saying, I wish to plan for these events and make sure they don't correspond with the yearly Summer Equinox Gala hosted by King Sonic and Queen Sally. Meaning we need to find out when they will be hosting their Gala. They tend to host on the eve of the Equinox, but they do change the date for it at times. If it is before the Grand PRIX then we should be good. But I am hoping they will be hosting on the eve of the first race. Meaning that I can host mine even before then.

What if they host it before then? Or during the preliminaries?

Then that will ROYALLY screw me over. But so long as I can get a hold of them, and find out when they will host the Gala, and then time it by that, we should be good. Skye?

Yeah, Eris?

I'm going to leave it up to you to get a hold of the King and Queen so I can get an audience with them to talk this out. Your family has closer ties with them, and I want you to do it ASAP, understand me?

Yeah, I can do that right now if it's alright with you.

It is.

Alright, be right back.

Skye gets up and leaves to try and reach King Sonic and Queen Sally to set things up.

Good, now why he is taking care of that, we need to move on to other things.

What about food!? I'M GETTING HANGRY!

Eris looks over at Tinnie and smiles.

To tell the truth, I am as well. Chaos, I hope they didn't send a newbie this time? They always get lost, and the food gets cold.

Shadow looks at the clock on his phone and hums out confused.

What's up reject?

Eris asks him with a fold of her arms and a tilt of her head.

They're late.

You did give them the right address, didn't you?

Of course, I did bird butt.

Then that means they have a new guy trying to find us...LOVELY.

That or they forgot about us? They've done that to me before.

Micha states.

So help me CHAOS, if they forgot about us after I gave Shadow my credit card and spent nearly a hundred and forty dollars on dinner, I'M GOING TO BE…

At that moment the doorbell rings and everyone looks at one another as Tinnie yells out…

DINNER TIME!

Before they could stop her she was up and running out the door as Shadow uses Chaos Control and beats her down there. After a moment he yells up.

FOODS HERE!

FINALLY! Come on let's go and…

Before she could finish Shadow was back in a flash of light with several bags of food.

I figured we could eat up here and continue this meeting.

Eris looks at him, then the others nod.

Alright, I'll go down and get plates and such. I think we may have some Chaos Soda and some other drinks.

I'll come to help you, Eris.

Thanks, Micha.

Shadow sets about setting out the food containers as Micha and Eris head on down to get plates, cups, and the rest of what they needed. As they gather everything, Micha gets a little bold and asks Eris something that's been bugging her all day.

Hey, Eris?

Hmm?

Can I ask you something?

You just did.

Micha giggles, and gives her head a gentle shake.

OK, I'll let you have that one. But all jokes aside?

Alright, what's up?

What do you have against Shadow?

What do you mean?

Eris looks at her as she sets a stack of plates down and gets some serving spoons, forks, and knives out.

Well, I saw it when it was just you and him on the track today. It's like you have it out for him? Like you hate him for some reason? It was like you were doing more than just having a friendly race, and more like you were trying to PREEMINENTLY take him out, and up in the theater room, I saw it again. It's like you resent him for some reason. Why? How come?

Eris lets out a deep sigh knowing this would happen sooner or later. She looks at Micha and gives a small sad smile. She sets what she has in her hand down on the counter and walks over to a picture that was up on the fridge via a magnet. She takes it down and hands her the picture. Taking it she looks at it and sees a much younger Eris and Maxwell.

Shadow killed my father before my eyes.

WHAT!?

Nodding she goes on.

I guess I should say he didn't truly do it, but he may as well have done it. He did know after all that daddy would be there during the battle. So that's just the same right?

Letting out a shaky sigh, she takes the pitcher back and smiles down at it as she gently rubs a thumb over her dad.

It was all over the news, but Ivan attacked Central Square a few months back. I was one of the ones out there with my squad to try and stop him. It turned out that he had two of the Chaos Emeralds, which we later found out were fakes. Carbon copies he somehow created to look and act like the real things.

Eris hangs the picture back up and goes on.

Anyway, during the battle just as I was about to go after them I saw my father out on the field with his team. I'll NEVER forget it. I had nightmares for weeks…Still do sometimes…

Eris lets out a soft sniffle, whips her nose, and goes on.

AHEM... Anyway, everything happened in literal slow motion that day. As I looked to my right I saw him, and for a moment our eyes met and I saw so much in them. Our whole lives flashed before us. As that was happening, people started to scream and when I looked back I saw that Ivan had knocked one of G.U.N's missiles off course and forced it to head right for my father and his team. Seeing this I hit the brakes and made a hard turn to try and save him, using most of the last of the air I had in my Gears tanks. But as I neared the missile exploded and I was sent flying back and many men and women were badly hurt, injured, and even dead. The blast sent me flying back and a concrete slab and some other rubble landed on top of me. It took a lot to get them all off of me. I was badly hurt, with a broken arm and leg, deep gashes, and more. My ears were ringing from the blast and everything was all fuzzy and muffled. As I stood there holding my arm, I looked around for my father and I found him embedded in some rebar steel that went all the way through him. Shadow, Rouges, Skye, Tiffa, and Julie-Su all tried to see if I was alright, but the only one I was worried about was my father. My best friend. He was my everything. My whole world. He was all I had left as my family. I lost my mother when I was only three months old due to some incurable sickness.

Where...were you two close?

Mich asks her as tears start to form in her eyes.

Heh...he was the whole reason I joined G.U.N to start with. I wanted to be just like him and help protect those who couldn't protect themselves. I wanted to follow in his footsteps, and I did. It was hard and long, but I did it. I pulled his body off the rebar steel and held him in my arms as he slowly bled out and died in them. I remember what happened next.

What…what happened?

Micha asks as Eris answers her in a shaky voice.

Rouge and the others tried to snap me out of my shock. But the only one who did was Shadow. Or I should say what he had in his hand, did. I saw he had a Chaos Emerald in his hand. Another fake. When I saw that I attacked Shadow and took it and ran off to finish my job. I managed to take down Ivan with my newest attack, The Chaos Crystal Claws.

Eris calls forth her claws, and her fingers turn to crystal and form into deadly claws. Almost like those of battle claws. They sparkle and shine in the light of the kitchen.

Their...BEAUTIFUL, Eris.

Thank you, Micha.

She lets her claws disperse and gathers the rest of what they needed, and they start to head up.

Anyway, as I said we didn't know that the Chaos Emeralds that Ivan and Shadow had were fakes till the end. So I don't know how I was able to pull that move off. But I did and I took Ivan down. I remember as I fell from the sky, I knew I was about to join my father and mother, and I welcomed the notion of the idea. Welcomed the notion of death. It meant that I wouldn't be alone anymore. But sadly even THAT was taken from me, by that bastard.

Eris says through clenched teeth.

What do you mean?

As I was falling. As I closed my eyes and welcomed my fate. That bastard saved me from my demise. But what pissed me off more is what I remember that day…

They were near the second set of stairs that were heading up to the second floor just as Shadow was coming to see if he could help them when he heard them coming up and stopped.

What was it?

That Bio-Freak shed a tear and tells me he is sorry.

That's good, right?

Eris turns around fast on the small landing and raises her voice.

NO! THAT'S NOT GOOD! WHAT RIGHT DOES THAT FREAK OF NATURE HAVE TO SHED A TEAR AND SAY SORRY FOR?! HE ALL BUT KILL MY FUCKING FATHER! HE KILLED HIM, MICHA! IT'S BECAUSE OF HIM I'M ALL ALONE NOW! I HAVE NO FAMILY LEFT BECAUSE OF HIM! HE TOOK THE ONLY FAMILY I HAVE LEFT! THE ONLY THING ON THIS FUCKING PLANET THAT MEANT EVERYTHING TO ME!

Micha backs up into the wall, taken back by her sudden outburst as she holds up the plates in front of her as her tail slightly wraps around her as her ears fold back. Seeing how she had startled her, Eris looks at her wide-eyed as tears fall down her face. They were quiet for a moment when someone clears their throat. Looking up, Eris sees Birch and Skye looking down at them having heard Eris yelling. They look down at her, worriedly as Eris looks back at Micha and sighs. Tinnie had heard the yelling and was peeking around the corner of the theater room watching things from afar. She Hears Birch scolding Micha and watches on not wishing to get mixed into it for now.

What did you do to upset her Micha?

Birch growls out.

M-M-Me? Ask HIM!

Micha points up at Shadow who had finally shown himself. With a grunt he turns around and walks off, having heard this tune before. But before he could get far Birch stops him by placing a hand on his shoulder and forcing him to look at him.

What did you do to Eris, Hedgehog?

Nothing that concerns you, Bear.

As Birch confronts Shadow, Eris realized she had yelled at Micha without meaning to. Or did she mean to? She didn't know, part of her didn't care. If she sides with Shadow then she would be the first to go down with him. Any followers of the freak would be taken down and killed when the time came. As she stands there, barely noticing the two boys growling at one another, ready to kill each other, when Micha scoffs out catching their attention. Birch and Shadow look at her as she comes up and hands the plates to Skye, as they look back at one another. Eris looks at her as she folds her arms and addresses Shadow.

So all but killing her father, the only family she had left, is nothing, huh? You got a pretty mixed mind there. Mate.

You did what?!

Birch looks at Shadow wide-eyed, as Eris looks at Micha surprised she would back her up like this when she barely knew her. Hearing this gave her an idea and she smiled inwardly as an idea came to her. Looking up at Micha she lets out a sigh and apologizes to her.

Micha...I-I-I'm sorry...Micha...I shouldn't have yelled at you like that. Forgive me.

Micha smiles at her and winks at her.

No, it's alright. I kind of understand. I kind of had something similar happen to me. So I get it.

Eris looks at her and smiles. Seeing that Eris looked alright, Birch shoves Shadow away from him, making him scoff as Eris comes up. Birch goes to her and looks at her sadly. She smiles at him with a nod and looks at Micha and finishes her story.

So anyway, when I came to, I found myself tied down in the medical wing. Turns out Shadow took it upon himself to watch over me, and at times I would come out of it long enough to try and kill him. Or so the doctors told me. That bastard just wouldn't leave me alone at all. Every chance I can get I try to make his life a living hell. Though in return he does the same. Every chance we get we try to. And every time he is always the one that wins. It doesn't matter, he ALWAYS wins and I'm in the loser's ring.

What was the worst thing you did to him?

As in trying to kill him? Or prank him?

Hmm...Prank.

Oh, you're gonna love this one.

What?!

I and some others who hate Shadow as much as I wanted to get him back for getting us into trouble with my father one time, and we came up with the idea to turn him BLUE.

WHAT!?

Skye groans, and facepalms remembering that day.

Eris had come to me asking if I had any dye for something she was working on. I felt something was off, but I was busy working on something and told her where it was, and…yeah…Shadow was so annoyed with me when he found out I was part of the plan without BEING part of it.

Micha giggles out as Eris goes on.

Yeah, it's true, haha. You see, from what I understand, he and King Sonic didn't use to see eye to eye, and we knew he hated Sonic with a PASSION. So we got some of that temporary fur and quill dye from Skye and we needed to figure out how to get it into his body wash and that. So one of us came up with an idea to distract him, and it was up to me to switch things around. I managed to switch things around and the next time Shadow took a shower he came out in a bright Azure Blue. When he saw himself in the mirror the WHOLE BASE heard him. I and my cohorts were busting up a storm. When he found us we were all in the lounging area, we were trying not to laugh but failing SO BADLY...Like no joke, Micha. When I called him Sonic and held up the bottle of dye I sealed my fate that day. He came after me and we ended up fighting. Sadly he ended up winning that day yet again, but I didn't care. I was pleased with my work. Even After daddy scolded me in private he ended up laughing at seeing him from his office window saying that was a pretty clever job.

Micha laughs and wipes a tear away.

Did he ever get you back for that?

Oh BOY, did he.

What did he do?

I made them clean out the toilets with toothbrushes, and had one of her "FOLLOWERS" use her toothbrush to clean out the toilets and when done, I put it back. She didn't know about it till it was too late.

Eris groans out and cringes remembering what happened.

She looked at him, and he had one hell of a smug grin on his face as he leaned against the railing with a fold of his arms as he looked over his shoulder at her.

OH. MY. CHAOS! YOU DIDN'T?!

I did.

He did.

They say in unison.

So you're telling me, I've gone and kissed TOILET mouth?

Birch looks at Eris with a weird face making her giggle.

This was a couple of years ago, so no, baby. But when I found out I wasn't happy. It took me a new toothbrush, a whole tube of toothpaste, and a bottle of mouthwash to clean out my mouth. And like when I turned him blue, the whole base heard me yelling at him at the top of my lungs.

Micha once again starts laughing and looks at Shadow.

That was LOW, Mate. Like seriously!

Yeah, I know. it was worth the punishment I got for it. Anyway, is that everything?

Everything but the drinks.

Alright you best get in there before Tinnie gets your shrimp, I'll go get the drinks.

I'll come and help you, hedgehog.

Scoffing out, he and Birch head on down to get the drinks as the girls head back to the theater room and start plating food. As they get comfy Skye lets Eris know that he got a hold of Sonic and Sally.

Perfect! Now that is done grab some food and let's watch some of these teams

Shouldn't we wait for him, and Birch?

No need, We're back. And we got some soda, beers, and some wine coolers here.

ANYONE TOUCHES MY WIN COOLERS I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU! THOSE ARE LIMITED EDITION FLAVORS, AND I REFUSE TO SHARE!

Eris points a fork at everyone making her point clear.

Then you should know, I caught Skye stealing one last night.

SKYE!

SHADOW! YOU PROMISED YOU WOULDN'T TELL!

Shadow only smiles as Skye looks at him with a gaping mouth as Eris throws a pillow at him.

SKYE "TAILS JR" PROWER! YOU THIEVING BRAT!

SORRY!

He giggles as he tosses the pillow back at her. After some joking around, they finally settle down and eat and watch some of the teams given to her.

Holy COW! That move was downright SICK! If I tried that move myself, I'd end up tangled up in my tails, with how long they are.

Skye chuckles out.

Hmm…

What's up, babe?

Birch looks over at her, asking her.

Oh nothing, just trying to imagine what a Skye ball of fluff would look like?

And?

Comfy, cuddly, and soft.

Everyone laughs as they continue to watch.

Hey, Freak, who was this person again?

Hmm…

Shadow looks at the files on the tablet.

His name is Tabius Storm. Age, eight-teen, Species, Shark. He uses power-type gear. Says here that he has won some single races and has moved up the ranks in a surprisingly short amount of time, in less than two years. It says he now holds the number four spot for the aquatic species Extreme Gear Team. He is also a professional Surfer, and model as well.

What about his lifestyle?

Hmm...it looks like he was brought up in the middle class to just above lower. His signature move is called Raging Storm. A powerful move that blows over anyone or thing in his path. Leaving anyone in a daze.

Huh? What do you think?

Shadow looks up and watches him a bit longer and shakes his head.

Not sure? He is good, but something feels off about him. But I can't place a finger on it.

What about, Tabatha Kitten?

Micha hands him a file, and the picture was of a pretty pure white and cream color Siamese Cat with shocking green eyes that looked as if they stared right passed you and into your very soul.

She's pretty, I'll admit that much. But this is an EG Race, not a beauty pageant. S-pup could you bring up Tabatha Kittens' video files, please?

Barking out, he brings it up and they watch her. As they watch her, Shadow hums out tilting his head. He sits up a bit more and leans on his knees and folds his hands together, resting his chin on them. Eris catches this and smiles knowing that look all too well even though she hates his guts and so much more about him. Chuckling out, she types away at the tablet and adds her to Shadows teams list. Seeing this, he cocks an eyebrow and glances at her.

She is a speed type, so we'll put her down as…

WAIT! Look at her gear!

Micha calls out and both Shadow and Eris look back and they see it change into a flying type gear and she takes off soaring like an egret, showing off moves just as graceful as a swan. Her move sets were perfect and on point.

I have NEVER seen a Gear like THAT before?!

Eris stats in surprised shock.

Same here. And I'm a fairly decent expert on them thanks to my dad. I wonder if he's heard of them.

Not sure, but you should give him a call, Skye, and see what you can find out.

I will, Eris, I wanna know more.

With gear like that, with both speed, and flight, imagine the possibilities, someone could have. I mean if there is gear like that out there, then what if there is one with a power core in it along with flight or even SPEED!?

I agree with the weasel wolf on this one. Put her in the second spot instead of the reserves. With her gear and move set, I'll end up winning no matter what.

Done and done. So what about Tabius?

I'm not too sure about him still, but I'll take him, but with your OK I wish to add two more power types on standby.

Why two more?

Like I said. There is something off about Tabius, and if my hunch is right then I'll need a new power-type racer and a back for the backup.

Alright, then I grant it. So now we need to find you...well, SOMEONE… I mean if Tabitha sticks around then you have what you need.

Thing is, according to her files, she can only change her gear type when performing her signature move, The Diamond Swan. With this move, she can change her gear into a flying type and can perform just about any flying type move.

So in other words, she's strictly a speed-type user then?

Eris asks Micha who nods.

Mm-hmm. That's right.

Shadow, it's your call. So what do you want to do?

Eris looks over at him and asks him.

Keep her. There is no rule stating that you can have an all-speed, all-power, or flying-type team. Or even have two of the same types on a team. Once I meet her I'll talk with her, and see if there is something we can do.

Alright. So now you have all that you need, not counting two extra power types. So what now?

S-pup barks out and shows the clock up on the screen, and it shows that it is nearing two in the morning. Eris giggles out and gets up, stretching to both her sides.

We've been doing this for the last six hours, and with the racing we had today I think it's time for bed. Besides, I think Tinnie is out cold right now.

Eris points a thumb at Tinnie who was nestled in between Skye's tails. Everyone looks over, and Skye looks shocked at having seen her in between them.

How...when...how...when did she...wait...HUH!?

Everyone laughs out softly at Sky's confused face.

She's a sneaky one, Tinnie is.

Micha tells him, giggling out.

But can you blame her? I mean I've been tempted all night to snuggle down in them myself. They look so soft and comfy.

I can say the rumors are true, hehe. Skye rarely lets ANYONE cuddle his tails unless he truly cares for them or they're close to him.

Not to say I'm not THAT mean. I mean as long as she doesn't go and mess them up too much, I'm alright with her snuggling them.

Hey, Skye?

Yeah, Micha?

Would mind if I...well….heh...could I at least one time? PLEASE?

Micha gives him a cute geeky grin making Skye look at her wide-eyed, but he giggles and holds out his left tail to her. Giggling she goes over and takes off her gloves and starts stroking them.

Oh wow!? It's softer than I thought! It's like petting a CLOUD!

He he… Thanks. I take very good care of them.

What do you use? Any tips you could give me? I would LOVE to get my tail this soft and amazing.

I'll be happy to give you a few pointers. But later. Eris is right. It's late and we should get to bed. We watched almost all the videos so I think a rest is in order.

Agreed. I'll see if I can get Tinnie out of your tail and then we'll be off for home.

Why not stay here tonight? I have extra rooms you all can use, and Birch you can stay with me of course.

Are you sure, baby? I mean I don't want to impose or anything.

I agree. We should get home.

Micha tells Eris as she gently untangles Tinnie from Sky's tail without waking her, as Birch comes over to take hold of her and holds her bridal style, and looks at Eris.

I'm sure. Jax, would you show them to the extra rooms, please?

Sure thing, Eris. Come you three this way.

Birch, see you in a bit.

Of course.

Micha and Birch follow Jax as Skye and Shadow help clean up. It takes them about thirty minutes as they all head back up. Shadow grabs the files and turns the Theater screen off and looks over at Skye.

Skye?

Yeah, Shadow?

Would you mind if I borrow S-pup for the night? I want to watch a few more videos before I turn in.

Sure, I don't mind. That alright with you, boy?

S-pup barks out a couple of times, wagging his tail, and goes and stands next to Shadow.

Alright, catch you later, and try not to stay up too much later, OK? Just because you are the "ULTIMATE LIFE FORM" doesn't mean you don't need rest like the rest of us.

Shadow chuckles out and gently shakes his head at him.

Don't worry, I'll head to bed soon. Goodnight.

Night.

Shadow leaves with S-pup at his side as they walk up to his room. Once in, he tosses the files down on his bed, turns on his bedside lamp, gets his laptop, and places it down on it as well. He walks over to his closet and takes off his shoes and socks, tossing them and his clothing into the hamper. Leaving him in his boxers as he pulls open a drawer and takes out a tank top when something catches his eyes. Putting his shirt on, he reaches for it and lets out a deep heavy sigh as he opens the small velvet pink box up. He walks over to his bed and sits on it letting out another sad sigh. S-pup sees that something was bothering him and he walks over and nuzzles his leg. Looking at him, he gives a soft sad smile and looks back at the box in his hands as he remembers the day he tried to give them to Eris.

She didn't even bother opening them, boy. She threw it out. More than likely thinking it was something from me, but in truth, it was a gift from both her mother and father.

Inside the pink velvet box was a pair of wedding rings. Both matched the other. They were gold banned and had pink diamonds set into them.

Maxwell wanted her to have them. But she got rid of them without even thinking. I wonder if she saw the box before or if maybe she forgot? I don't but...I don't know boy.

Shadow shakes his head sadly and reaches over to his bedside drawer and opens it and pulls out a picture of Maxwell and Layla as she held Eris as a baby. Next to them was Shadow. Seeing the picture, he chuckles with a little smile. S-pup jumps up on the bed and lays down next to him and looks at the picture with him.

I remember when this was taken. Eris wouldn't settle down for the picture unless I was close by. It was to have been only the three of them, but Eris had other ideas at the time. It's so hard to believe that she has changed so much over the years like this. I wish I knew what happened, and where things went wrong. Maybe then I could have prevented them from happening. Then again, maybe not. But either way, I wish I knew. I miss her. The old her.

Letting out a heavy sigh he tilts the picture and he catches the scar over his left eye in the reflection on the glass frame. He sets the velvet box down and reaches up to touch the scar and sighs out. Eris probably didn't think he noticed how her Crystal Blade was different in color today, but he saw, and it made him wonder even more about what was going on. With another sigh, he sets the picture of them down next to his bed and sets the ring box open, next to it as he turns around and turns on his laptop, and starts watching a few more videos.

The Grand Archives Of the Brotherhood...Angel Island...Mystic Sanctum...0500 hours…

Footsteps slightly echo around the vast room as someone sets a bunch of books up on the shelves. Once done, he gently rubs his beard in thought as he looks over the books before him.

"I know there has to be something here. I know we lost a lot of the old text, and most are now digitized, but there has to be something here about the Chaos emeralds. If what my son said is true, then this could end up being bad. I wonder if the others found something yet?"

He leaves and heads to go find his friends. After a bit, he finds three others and greets them.

Saber, Specter, Thunderhawk, anything yet?

Saber sighs and shakes his head and closes the book he was looking at. Thunderhawk rolls up a scroll and opens another one as Specter addresses their friend.

Sorry, Locke, but we still haven't found anything yet. But I'm sure there is something here. I feel we are overlooking something very important, but I don't know what it could be. If what Knuckles has told us is true, then maybe if we found another Chaos Emerald, we could study it or run some tests on it.

Perhaps Mace could shed more light on this matter? After all, he was the one who found it first.

Specter and Lock look over at Thunderhawk who sets the scrolls he had off to the side.

Very true. He could possibly know more about this than what we're trying to find. Though he could be just as clueless as the rest of us as well.

True Locke, but it is worth a shot.

Saber states letting out a heavy sigh. He stands up and stretches out, popping a few bones in the process. He lets out a content sigh and walks over to Specter and Locke.

This is extremely troubling. For as long as I have been a Guardian, I've never heard of something like this before.

Same dad.

Locke looks at his father, Saber, letting out a sigh as he folds his arms.

I don't know what to do. This is all so confusing. If only there was a way to get a hold of our ancestors, then maybe we could get some answers.

I think, for now, we go seek Mace out and see if maybe he could shine some light on the matter. At least from his perspective.

Very well, Thunderhawk. If you think that is a good idea.

Perhaps we should wait a few more hours? It's quite…

"It is foretold that there will come a time when the legendary Chaos Emeralds will one day change from their original purpose to that something more extraordinary. To something like the likes of which no one has ever seen before in this lifetime…"

Everyone looks up and sees Mace coming their way as he is looking at a strange scroll. As he looks at it he reads it out loud.

"The Ancients Walker knew that one day a greater threat than anything would one day show its head and bring Mobius to its knees as it drains its life force. By doing this the creature would be able to set things into motion to bring back its brethren from the dead. But for it to do so it would need several things…"

Mace holds up a free hand and recites the servers and above them, over the table, they're all at, images show before them of the emeralds and some sort of creature. As Mace talks about the images before the Brotherhood plays out. It shows the creature and the Chaos Emeralds floating around it. It takes shape as he shows an image of Mobius and with it even more of the creatures walking around it. Along with it is a ring with a star in the middle of it, and seven slightly bigger emeralds. When they see this they gasp out as Mace goes on.

"The seven Red Star Rings, and the Super Emeralds in order to bring forth its great power."

Now hold on a moment, Mace. Where did you find that scroll?

Hawking asks him, surprised by his findings. Mace looks at him and lets a sigh out.

You wouldn't believe me if I told you, Grandfather Hawking's.

Try us, grandson.

Letting out another sigh, he nods and tells him.

I think I dreamed it up or something. I'm not one-hundred percent sure. All I know is I had some kind of weird dream I barely remember, and when I woke up I saw the scroll right next to my pillow. I took hold of it and when I opened it, it started to glow. When it died down I read it. The light woke Vincent up, and I showed it to her, but she said he couldn't read it, but I could. When I saw what it said I knew I had to come to find you all. I knew you were all here at the Archives so I hurried over here when something caught my eye as I was looking at the scroll once again as I entered to make sure I was reading it right.

He hands the scroll off to Specter who looks it over and his eyes widen in shock as he looks back up at Mace.

Are you sure?

Yes.

What is it, Specter?

Saber asks him after seeing his face.

I can't read it.

What?! Give here. Let me see.

Nodding he hands it over and just like him, he finds he couldn't read the language on it.

What in Aurora's name!? How is this possible!?

The others looked it over and they too couldn't read it. Locke looks at Mace then back at the scroll.

It looks like Ancient Felidae or Echidna. I'm not sure. Maybe both? But you're the only one that can read it?

Yeah.

And not even Vincent, could read it?

Tats right, Grandfather, Saber. When I saw someone else here I asked them about it and they couldn't even read it and told me you were all here.

Strange…

Locke strokes his beard in thought.

What else does it say, Mace?

Saber asks him. Nodding, he picks up where he left off as the images come back to life.

"The seven Red Star Rings, and the Super Emeralds in order to bring forth its great power. So in seeing this before their passing, they hid the Red Star Rings and the Super Emeralds, and to top it off they placed a new power within the Chaos emeralds and forced their new powers to lay dormant till the time came…"

Mace, I am sorry to stop you once again, but tell me something.

Yes, Grandfather, Saber?

The Chaos Emerald you found, Knuckles told us, but we want to hear it from you. Is it true? Did it do what you and your brother told us?

It's true. When I found it near Lake Nessie, a storm started up but ended just as fast. When I showed it to Knuckles it happened a second time but it was more intense. I think because it was closer to the Master Emerald since it shot light up into the sky and it started to storm yet again.

Hmm… curious-er, and curious-er still.

Locke says as he keeps stroking his beard as he closes his eyes deep in thought. Even Specter was troubled by this news as he thought for a moment. He opens his eyes and walks over to the Red Star Ring image and looks at it closely. His eyes narrow and he tilts his head as he speaks more to himself than the others.

And so they gave the Chaos Emeralds new hidden powers and forced them to lay dormant till the time was right. But why the Red Star Rings? What is their purpose? Why do I feel like something is still missing? Like it is close by, and right under our noses? Yet so far from our reach?

Specter?

Saber looks at him confused.

What is it, Specter?

Thunderhawk asks him, sensing something was bugging him.

I feel like we're missing…

It was then that his eyes snapped wide open and he turned and looked at the statue of Aurora, Chaos, and Tikal that was in the middle of the Grand Archives. Growling out he runs down the pathway. The others look at one another and follow him. Their shoes stomp against the floor as they near the statue of the three. Once there they see Specter looking at something. They follow his gaze and tilt their heads when Mace points it out.

LOOK! IN AURORA'S HANDS!

AND ONE IN CHAOS AND TIKAL! SPECTER!?

Saber yells back. Growling out Specter calls on his Chaos powers to power up his voice and yells out to all who could be in the Grand Archives.

EVERYONE WHO IS STILL IN THE GRAND ARCHIVES OUT RIGHT NOW! BY THE ORDER OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE GUARDIANS! NO ONE IS ALLOWED BACK IN TILL FURTHER NOTICE!

His voice echoes around the vast building alerting everyone still inside. Footsteps could be heard as those still around hurry to leave. The only ones that stayed behind were the Archive personnel as they came over to speak with Specter.

Master, Specter, what is going on? How may we help?

Specter turns around and hums out.

Let the public know that the Archives are on lock down till I give the order. Do not let anyone in who is not of the brotherhood, or the guardians. Do you understand me? Not unless I state otherwise!

They bow, and the head Archivist tells the others to lock the doors down and send out a notice that the Grand Archives were on lock down till further notice. Specter looks back at the statue of the three and hums out. The statue Had Aurora standing above Tikal and Chaos who had their backs to one another and each one was holding a strange object in their hands. Aurora was holding a Super Emerald, Tikal was holding a Red Star Ring with a hand above it, and below it, and Chaos A Chaos Emerald. Each one a mega sized sculpture of the real thing.

Specter, what are we to do? You don't think that…?

It is quite possible, yes. Mace, get a hold of your brother and let him know what we found out, and decipher that scroll so we all can read it.

Right away, Grandfather Specter.

Mace hurries off to go call his brother and to decipher the scroll why the others stay behind to figure out what Specter's discovery meant.

Thunderhawk.

Yes, Specter?

I need you to get a hold of someone for me if you could?

But of course? Who is it you need?

Get me Rouge the bat…

(It looks like things are starting to come together but will they figure out what will happen before it is too late? Why does Specter need Rouge, and will she be willing to help them out?

Eris and the others already started their hunt for new riders, and as promised, Shadow is looking for his new team. But will they be a big hit? Or a big flop?

River has found out something about Dr. Long and has headed back to the others. Will they end up changing their minds about the job, or will they end up proceeding with it?

Find out next time in part 2 of… Killing four birds with one stone.)