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

9. Killing Four birds with one stone, P40

(AN: Some new Russian words will be added to this chapter like last time. This time around we have...

Predatel' =Traitor

Druz'ya = Friends

Brat'ya = Brothers

Vragi= Enemies.

Brodyaga = Tramp

Monstr= Monster

Dedushka= grandfather

Chinese words…

Pofu= Vixen

Hei Xing= Black Star

Nainai= Granny

Lang Xing= Wolf Star

If something is wrong or something, and you are of the Russian or Chinese region and speak decent English, or anyone who knows Russian or Chinese, please let me know right away via Messages and inform me so I know I'm not insulting the Russians or Chinese thank you!... The last thing I need is one stupid honest mistake and the next thing I know I'm the cause of a war between nations lol.

But jokes aside, this chapter will be a little bit extra long as I did warn you. So enjoy it.)

CHAPTER 3

KILLING FOUR BIRDS WITH ONE STONE...FINAL PART…4.0

RAINBOW VALLEY...SHINOBI FOREST VILLAGE...14OO HOURS…

Manik comes to a skidding halt as a dust cloud forms around him, making the people close by cough some and glaring slightly at him, shaking their heads with a smile as they walk on. Dahlia was laughing and giggling as Manik sets her down as she starts jumping up and down excitedly.

THAT WAS AWESOME! That NEVER gets old. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER! NYAA!

Manik laughs as he places a folded hand on his hip, shaking his head at her.

Dahlia, I don't know HOW you do it.

Do what?

She looks at him with a tilt of her head.

Always stay happy and hyper like that, heh. I swear it can be draining sometimes, he he.

Dahlia turns on the tip of a foot and stands bent over slightly with her hands behind her back making a cute silly winking face at him.

Hey, if I don't stay happy all the time then why bother? I mean you know what I am like, Manny. You know I love bringing a smile to people's faces all the time, and I can't very well do that if I'm sad all the time, right?

Manik shakes his head with a roll of his eyes smiling at her.

I guess you have a point there. Anyway, are you going to stick with me or look around and find Miru?

I'm going to go find Miru and fill him in.

Dahlia, remember what I said. The fewer people know the….

Less likely there is to be a panic...I know, I know...sheesh. But with how hyper I am right now, you know he's gonna pick something up?

Yeah, I know.

Manik folds his arms and rubs his temples. It was one thing that Manik sometimes hated about Miru. It was the fact he could sense when something was up. And with how Dahlia is right now, he was sure to pick up something right away.

Look, just try and tone it down, alright? Not till I know more. Speaking of which?

Manik takes out Nikki and opens her up.

Hey, Nikki, how much time do we have?

You have about eight hours before the moon rises above Angel Zone, Manik.

Alright, and will the weather still be clear then? It's the only way to find them?

Yes, so far the weather tonight will be clear. But I will keep you posted should something happen. But, Manik?

Yeah?

Even if you manage to get the rings, who is it you know of that can utilize their powers to form the key we need?

I'd rather keep that to myself for now. The dude got a history with my family, and all of Mobius, and not a good one. So till I know for sure he can help, I would rather keep it to myself, thank you. But first thing first, we need those Rainbow Rings.

Rainbow Rings? What is it you need with our Village scares treasure, your Majesty?

Huh?

Manik and Dahlia look over and see a purple female Chameleon with black long hair, up in a braid, and two cream-colored horns on her head, both with horn rings that were connected with a chain, and had a small gold throwing star charm on them. Her bright blue eyes shined brightly in the afternoon sun, and her outfit consisted of light blue silk pants, one side off-shoulder sleeveless top, with gold trim around the cuff of the pants and the shirt itself. She had matching ninja sandals on, and she walked over to them with a bright smile. Manik Pockets Nikki as he looks at her surprised.

Salma!?… I mean Bride of Constant Vigil.

Manik bows to her, making her smile.

Manik, I've told you before, there is no need for that. We are friends after all. But now back to my question at hand, what is it you need with the Rainbow Rings?

Yeah, about that? Could we speak someplace a little more private, please? I need to fill you in on something big, and it's not good.

What's not good?

Another voice speaks up, a male, making everyone look up and over at a dark magenta chameleon with the same blue eyes as Salma's, and several black spots on his forehead. He had a nearly pure white horn, as well as back spines. His attire consisted of a pair of light blue ninja boots, with silver bands on them, white gloves with a light blue and silver decal on the back, and lastly a light blue vest.

NYA! Miru!

Dahlia runs over to him and jumps at him. Chucking out, he opens his arms and catches her, swinging her wound as he pulls her in for a hug, making her purr out.

Hello, my little kitten.

It's so good to see you, Miru! I was just about to come to find you, NYAA!

Well, now you don't have to.

He says matter-of-factually, letting out a chuckle.

Yo, Miru, my main bro, how's it hanging?

Manik smiles at him, as he holds out his fist, and Miru bumps it smiling.

It's been well, Manik. Also, hello mother.

Hello, dear.

So, what is not good?

Yeah, about that, it's best for now, that I talk with your mom, Mi.

Is it that bad?

Yeah. Dali, remember what I said.

I know, Manny. I know.

Anyway, why don't you come with me, Manik and we'll talk. Miru, have fun with Dahlia.

I will. Come on, I wanna show you something.

Nya! Alright!

They hold one another's hand as they walk off. Manik shakes his head with a hand folded on his hip. Salma sees this and giggles and looks back at her son and Dahlia.

I give it about two hours tops before she spills whatever it is you're about to tell me.

She looks at Manik and he looks up at her with a raised eyebrow.

Please, I give it forty-five minutes before she does.

Manik tells her with a roll of his eyes making her giggle with a sly smile.

The winner gets to pick out the cake to go with the tea.

Ooh, oh oh…. You're on, Aunt Salma!

Though not related and have been friends with the Royal family for a very long time, Salma had become somewhat of an unofficial/official Aunt to him and Sonia.

Then come on, let's head to my place and you can tell me what is going on.

Nodding, they turn around and hurry to her home. Once there they run into Rutan who greets them.

Hello, my love.

He tells Salma with a kiss.

And hello to you as well, Prince Manik.

Hey, Rutan.

Hello, my dear.

So what brings the Prince of Mobius to our humble home?

I've come to talk with Salma about something big, and it involves the Rainbow Rings.

The Rainbow Rings?! What do you need them for?

Manik looks at Salma and nods at him. Thinking it over he was about to say something when Nikki chimes in.

I think it would also be a good idea to involve Rutan as well since he is after all the Hokage of the Village.

Huh?

Manik takes out Nikki and opens her up. Rutan sees this and folds his arms with a raised eyebrow.

Your sister is going to have your ass, Manik.

OH, MY CHAOS! I KNOW ALREADY! I'M A DEAD HOG WHEN I GET HOME! Not one of you will EVER let me live that down, will you?

Nope.

Rutan says with a huge smile, as Manik lets out a sigh, as Rutan chuckles.

Anyway, are you sure, Nikki?

Yes, Manik, I am. If things go south then we will need a backup plan, and possibly all the help we can get. You heard, Rouge, something is happening and it would be wise to seek help from Salma, and Rutan and be at the ready.

Yeah, I suppose you're right. Alright then. Do you think we could head to the back and I'll explain things there?

Rutan looks at Salma and she nods at him, they lead him to the back where he and Salma tend to do their work and meditate. Once inside, Rutan orders two men passing by to guard the door and let them know that they are not to be disturbed. Once settled Manik starts telling them everything he knew of.

Back on the main lands...Monroe Cabin… the next day...0800 hours…

Eris are you CRAZY or something?! You can't just kick Shadow out of here! We NEED him.

No, we don't Skye. I don't know what that bitch Risa and that stupid fool Conners were thinking in forcing a fucking bloodthirsty KILLER to join MY TEAM! MY TEAM, SKYE! THEY HAD NO RIGHT!

But Eris!

ENOUGH SKYE!

Eris turns on him, baring her teeth at him. He steps back and runs right into someone. Looking behind him, he sees it was Shadow himself. Eris scoffs and folds her arms as she speaks to him in a disgusted tone.

I thought you were leaving HEDGEHOG…

Eris sounded annoyed.

I am. But my ride isn't here yet.

Shadow you can't go. You just can't! I mean where will you even go? Do you even HAVE a place you can go to?

Skye asks him all in a panic.

I've talked it over with Tank, and he said for the time being I could stay with him. I'm just waiting for him to come to get my stuff then I'll ride my motorcycle to his place.

I'm giving you an hour till I call the fucking cops, freak.

Fine by me, but I won't need an hour, I can hear him coming up the drive now.

As if on cue, a red and silver truck pulls up, parks and Tank shuts his truck off. He gets out slamming his door as the passenger's side opens up and Bitsy jumps down and follows him, hiding slightly behind him keeping her left side hidden.

Pakhan, I'm here.

Good, her HIGHNESS is antsy with me being here.

Shadow scoffs as Eris watches him, giving him the stink eye. As if on cue, Birch comes out of the house from the garage door that leads to the kitchen and he stands next to Eris with a cup of tea for her. Upon seeing his sister, he looks at her and starts to go over to her, but Shadow steps in front of them, as Tank lets out a low warning growl that if he took another step he would send him flying yet again.

B-Bitsy...I…

Bitsy turns her head away trying to hold back her tears as she turns around and heads back to the truck remembering the talk with their father last night.

Flashback...last night...2035 hours… Von Roke Mansion...The Study of Bark the Polar Bear…

"I am very disappointed in you, Birch.

I know, and I'm sorry father but…

NO BUTS BIRCH! LOOK AT WHAT YOU'VE DONE TO YOUR SISTER! YOU'RE SISTER!"

Bark roars out furiously as he slams his hands down on his desk, nearly breaking it, but ends up holding back his strength. After helping to fix up Birch, Eris, and Birch stuck to the plan and ended up going to his home. Upon his arrival, they could see one of their butlers and maids waiting for them. As they had gotten out, the maid informed them that Tank and Bitsy had shown up before them, and had gone to see Bark and their grandfather who had come for a visit. Hearing how his grandfather was here, he knew he would be in triple the shit he was already going to be in. With a heavy sigh, he nods and tells Eris to go with the maid and she would see to her needs. But before he could say more, she informed him that they wanted to see them both. Eris looked at him, and he grew worried and nodded as he led the way to the study. Once in Bark lets out a low growl from behind his desk as his grandfather stands next to him, looming over them all. He narrows his eyes and speaks.

"SIT!"

He commands them with a growl. Not wishing to risk his grandfather's wrath, he nods to Eris and they sit down. Close by on the sofa was Bitsy who had an ice pack against the left side of her face, and Tank holding her in his lap. She was trying her best not to cry and lets out a sniffle as she buries her face into Tanks' chest, growling as he speaks.

"You are SO dead, Birch when this is over with.

Easy, Tank. No one is going to kill anyone why I am here. At least not yet, that is."

Scoffing, he looks at Bitsy and Birch's grandfather and lets out a sigh, and nods.

"Very well Pakhan...Dedushka…"

Their grandfather nods as he looks at Eris and Birch.

"Tank, you said there was a hedgehog as well? Did you not call him and tell him that we wished to meet with him?

I did, yes, but he said he had... things to do."

Eris scoffs with a roll of her eyes as she folds her arms, and crosses her legs. Birch's grandfather and father look at her with raised eyebrows as she speaks.

"Thing's my ass. If that blasted hedgehog knows what is good for him, he better be packing his stuff and be gone by morning before I call SSCPD and have him THROWN off my property for attacking Birch as he did.

Uh-huh…? Ah...Miss Monroe was it?"

Eris looks up at Birch's grandfather and nods. He nods back as he addresses her.

"Right. Ahem… Well, my name is Wilson Henderson Von Roke. I am the grandfather to Bitsy and Birch and father-in-law to Bark. I am the head of the Von Roke family, and from what Bitsy and Tank have told me, and as much as I wish that Mr. Hedgehog could be here to defend himself, I was told he only attacked my grandson according to his rights for attacking a lady, let alone his sister. I for one do not condone such brute force on any woman for no reason.

But grandfather!

SILENTS, BIRCH! YOU WILL HOLD YOUR TONGUE WHY YOUR GRANDFATHER SPEAKS! DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME!?"

Birch looked at his father and he could see the pure rage and anger in his eyes. Folding his ears back and looking slightly down, he nods. Scoffing, Bark folds his hands on his desk and lets Wilson go on.

"Right, thank you, Bark. Now, as I was saying, I do not care for such acts of violence against a woman, let alone one who is someone's sister. I am highly disappointed in you Birch, for attacking your sister like that. Now I don't know what has gotten into you, but I have been kept up to date on things and what I have heard is very troubling. Very troubling indeed.

Grandfather, please, won't you at least let me explain?

Explain what, exactly?"

Wilson narrows his eyes at his grandson and goes on.

"That when Mr. Hedgehog had gone and offered your sister a spot on his team as it's a backup powerhouse? How after you heard this, you told her that she wasn't ALLOWED to join his team when she had been dreaming of joining an Extreme Gear Team for months now? And when one presents itself to her, you try to take it from her? How about the fact of how when Mr. Hedgehog stood up for her, you told him to stay out of it, saying that he has no right to interfere? Or how about the fact that she tried to put her foot down, and told you off saying that she WANTED to join his team, and you all but tried to FORCE her to leave with you? Or how about the fact that you were hurting her when pulling her away, and as she managed to pull away, you BACKHAND her and sent her flying to the ground where she ended up hurt?

Grandfather...I…"

Birch tries to defend himself when Wilson yells out to the point the whole room shakes with the sheer force of his roar. If there was one thing you never wanted to do it was make the head of the Von Roke family mad. Wilson was an extremely strong and powerful man, in more ways than one. Both physically, and mentally. Not to say, he was head of a well-respected and well-revered Mob organization as well, and one not to be trifled with unless you wanted to lose a limb. Or worse. You're life. But Wilson was also a kind and gentle man as well, and he only ever rarely got mad, and this was one of those times.

"YOU WHAT BIRCH!? TELL ME! YOU WHAT!? YOU THOUGHT IT WAS A GOOD IDEA TO DENY YOUR SISTERS DREAM!? YOU THOUGHT IT WAS A GOOD IDEA TO GO AND BACKHAND YOUR SISTER LIKE IT WAS NOTHING?!

N-No...I...I didn't...what I mean…I'm sorry...I'm so sorry...grandfather...I…

IT ISN'T ME YOU SHOULD BE APOLOGIZING TO! IT'S YOUR SISTER! SHE IS THE ONE YOU HURT! THE ONE YOU LAID A HAND ON! THE ONE WHO TRIED TO TAKE ONE OF HER MANY DREAMS AWAY FROM HER! SHE IS THE ONE YOU NEED TO SAY SORRY TO, NOT JUST ME AND YOUR FATHER!"

Birch looks between his father and grandfather and turns around in his seat and looks at Tank and Bitsy. Bitsy still had her face buried in his chest, not wishing to look at him. He looked at Eris hoping to get answers when his grandfather growled.

DO NOT LOOK AT HER, BIRCH! SHE CANNOT HELP YOU! ONLY YOU CAN HELP YOURSELF! NOW APOLOGIZE TO YOUR SISTER!"

Wilson's voice reaches its literal breaking point where the glass in the windows cracks. Looking back at his sister, he gets up and walks over to her, but Tank growls at him, warning him off as he holds Bitsy closer, protecting her from him. Stepping back he looks at his grandfather and father who only watch. Eris turns around watching herself, and knew this would be a true test of his loyalty. When she was helping fix him up, they had spoken via the hive mind and she told him he had really screwed up big time for she believed Bitsy was one of the bearers of the Chaos Emeralds. When hearing this he knew he was in shit, and he knew he had a lot to make up for. Taking a step closer, he tries once again, keeping an eye on Tank should he attack.

"Bitsy...Bitsy...look at me...please?"

Bitsy curls up into a tighter ball not wishing to look at him right now, as Tank holds her just a bit tighter. Not tight enough to hurt her, but just enough to make a point that he didn't want him near her and she didn't wish to look at him. Birch looks at his grandfather and he speaks in a much more gentle tone to Bitsy.

"Bitsy, Bitsy baby, please, look at your brother. For me?

I...I don't want to…

Bitsy, please grand-baby? Show him."

Bitsy folds her ears tightly to her head as she shakes and lets out a muffled sob. Tank looked at Wilson, and he nodded. Nodding back he gently pets her trying to calmly get her to look up at him. With some reluctance, she looks up at him, and his eyes widen for a quick moment, but soften just as fast and nod at her. He holds her face in his hands and gently kisses her forehead.

"Go on, show your brother. It's alright, he won't hurt you. I promise, not while I am around he won't.

But...I…

It's alright, Bitsy, baby. You know I will never let anything, or anyone hurt you. That includes your brother."

Letting out a tired sigh, she nods and slowly looks at her brother. Upon seeing her, Birch gaps out and takes a step back in shock. Nearly the whole of the left side of her face was starting to turn black and blue, and her eye was swollen shut. For a long time, the room was silent, and it felt like it was just him and Bitsy in the room. So much was going on in Birch's head right now he didn't know what to think. He slowly reaches out a hand to her and takes a step towards her but she flinches back into Tank more with wide scared eyes. Seeing this he stops and once again he tries to speak to her, but before he could she says something that would haunt him for a long time.

"You're… You're not my brother. You're a...a...MONSTER! YOU'RE NOTHING BUT A MONSTER! YOU'RE NO LONGER MY BROTHER! I HATE YOU! I HATE YOU BIRCH! YOU'RE NOT THE SAME ANYMORE! YOU'VE CHANGED EVER SINCE YOU GOT WITH THAT WOMAN! SHE HAS CHANGED YOU AND HAS TURNED YOU INTO A MONSTER! JUST LIKE IN MY DREAMS! I DON'T WANT YOU NEAR ME! SO JUST STAY AWAY!"

Bitsy yells out at him, shocking him. But what she said about him being a Monster, made him angry and he yelled back at her.

"MONSTER?! MONSTER!? IF ANYONE IS A MONSTER IT'S THAT HEDGEHOG! HE CAN NOT BE TRUSTED! HE IS NOTHING BUT A KILLER! A FREAK OF NATURE!"

Bitsy growls out and stands up clenching her fists and yelling at him.

"NO! IF ANYONE IS A FREAK OF NATURE RIGHT NOW, IT'S YOU! IF MOTHER WAS HERE RIGHT NOW, SHE WOULD AGREE WITH ME! YOU'VE CHANGED AND IT'S LIKE I DON'T KNOW YOU ANYMORE! THE BROTHER I ONCE KNEW, LOVED, AND LOOKED UP TO AND WISHED TO FOLLOW IN HIS FOOTSTEPS IS GONE! HE'S GONE! AND IT'S ALL BECAUSE OF THAT BITCH SITTING RIGHT OVER THERE!"

Bitsy points a finger at Eris as Eris hums out and raises an eyebrow as Bitsy goes on.

"SHE HAS CHANGED YOU! AND I HATE HOW SHE HAS BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT THE SAME ANYMORE! I WANT MY BROTHER BACK! MY SWEET, KIND CARING, BIG BROTHER! NOT THIS MONSTER BEFORE ME! SO TAKE YOUR APOLOGY AND SHOVE IT WHERE THE SUN DOESN'T SHINE BECAUSE I WILL NEVER FORGIVE YOU! YOU FUCKING MONSTER"

Bitsy turns around and runs out of the room crying. Tank stands up and tries to stop her, but he is too late as she slams the door to her father's study behind her. Standing there a bit shocked, Tank lets his arm fall to his side as he blinks a couple of times. Finally closing his eyes and letting his ears fold back, he clenches his fists as they start to shake and tears fight to break free. More than anything, he hated seeing Bitsy so broken like this. He hadn't seen her this upset since her mother's passing six months ago. Growling, he turns around and rushes Birch with a fist held up as he grabs him by the collar of his shirt with one hand and holds him up off the floor, with his shaking fist. He looks at him with pure hatred and anger. Bark stands up quickly and is about to say something when Wilson stops him with an arm in front of him. He looks up at his father-in-law as he shakes his head at him. Grunting, he sits back down. Tank fist twitches a couple of times, as Birch tries to break free of his powerful grip with little luck. More than anything he wanted to bash Birch's face in, so what was stopping him from doing so? The more and more he looked at Birch, he couldn't do it. His bottom lip trembles as tears fill his eyes and one falls down his cheek. All he could do was shake his head as memories flooded his mind. Closing his eyes once again, he throws Birch across the room and into a bookshelf where a bunch of books and knick-knacks fall off and on him. Taking a breath, he walks over to him and looks down at him and shakes his head, and speaks in a slightly shaky voice as the tears he had been trying to hold back, finally spill over.

"Predatel'… You're nothing but a Predatel'… And it SICKENS me that you are... Bitsy is right... you are not the same, Birch, and it hurts me deeply….I thought we were Druz'ya... Brat'ya... But now, after tonight, we're Vragi… and come a time...I will take you down...permanently. You will regret so much by the time I am done with you, you will wish you were never born, predatel'. Come race time, I will break every bone in your body, predatel'. You can count on it. Now if you excuse me, I need to go check on Bitsy and help her pack. Grandfather and Bark have already given her permission to stay with me for a time unless you have any objections... Predatel'?"

Tank asks him with a growl. Birch lets out a sigh and looks away with his ears folded back and shakes his head as he answers him.

"No...I don't...just...Just watch over her like you have been...Br...Tank…

That's Sasha to you, Vragi. Only my Druz'ya are allowed to call me by my nickname, and as for you, Brodyaga..."

Tank turns and addresses, Eris growling low.

"As for you, brodyaga... I hope you'll be ready. I don't know what is going on, but after tonight, I now know something is going on, because I've known Birch for a very long time, and I know because of you, he's changed into this Monstr. He is not the same bear I once looked up to... or loved.'

He looked at Birch when he said he loved him. Birch's eyes widened in shock slightly and looked at him, and now knew more than ever that he lost everything. His best friend and brother, even if he didn't admit it at times. With that, Tank turns around and leaves. Eris stands up and walks over to Birch, as he stands up. The books and things fall off him as Eris places a hand on his arm. He looks at her and sighs as Eris speaks up.

"I think this has been more than enough of an eventful night, wouldn't you agree, gentlemen?"

Eris looks at Wilson and Bark who both nod at her. Nodding back she takes Birch's hand and gently guides him when Wilson speaks up.

"Birch.

Grandfather?"

Birch stops and looks at his grandfather and he could see the look of disappointment on his face along with his father's. Bark and Wilson look at one another and nod, and Bark addresses him this time.

"When we heard of this matter, I and your grandfather spoke before you came, and we decided to leave things in Bitsy's hands, saying that if she forgave you, then we wouldn't go through with your punishment, but since she has disowned you from the sound of it, then we have no choice. I'm sorry son, but until further notice, you are hereby cut from the family and as Heir to the Von Roke name. Leaving Bitsy as the sole Heir to the family now till further notice. As such, we will not take much from you. Whatever you have been saving for some time will not be touched, and to ensure you have something, we will be adding just a bit more to your banking account just to make sure you can live on your own. You may come back and take what you need from your room, and the rest will be left alone. We will give you three days to get everything in order. I'm truly sorry, Birch, but you brought this on yourself, no one else. Now you may leave and we will see you later. Oh, and Miss Monroe?"

Eris looks at both of them with a tilt of her head.

"Yes?

You best be ready to fight. Because the Order of the Crimson Fang will be taking you down...TRINITY…"

Eris chuckles, as the left side of her face shifts to Trinity for a moment. Birch, eyes widened as he came to the realization of what was going on but held his tongue as Trinity spoke.

"So you knew, did you?

We did, yes. The moment you walked in here, we knew who you truly were.

Good, then you know what I am after right?

We do, yes."

It was Wilson who spoke that time answering her.

"Good. Then know, I may have lost the Bearer of Hope and Light, but the war is far from won. I have five of the seven on my side right now, and it will only be a matter of time before I have them all. So if you have a plan, then best put it into action now. But be warned even though my Generals are only at half-power right now, you can't stop me. I will take this pathetic planet down and the Black Arms will rise once again.

You will be stopped. And now that we know that Bitsy truly is the Bearer of Hope and Light, she will be watched over, and she will play her part soon. So if you think you can take her, then think again. Now go. We're done here."

Scoffing, she shifts back, nods and she and Birch leave…

Present time…0845 hours…

Bitsy sits in the truck as Tank and Shadow finish putting his boxes in the back. Skye stands off to the side and looks between the two trying to figure out something to fix everything. Finally letting out a sigh, he steps up and speaks.

I'm leaving too!

What!?

Eris looks at him shocked, as do Shadow and the rest.

I...I'm not going to stay around here if Shadow can't stay. We need him and you…

ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND SKYE? I'M THE ONE THAT NEEDS YOU! YOU'RE PART OF MY TEAM AS OUR MECHANIC!

I don't care! You've changed Eris, I know you have. I know something is going on, and it's been bothering me! I don't like it, and it scares me!

Skye, you can't come with me.

I refuse to stay here with Eris any longer than I have to. I refuse to let my best friend and brother leave on their own. Besides, you're going to need a mechanic yourself for your team, and I'm the best around. So...so please, Shadow, let me come with you? I know I can be a huge help!

Skye…

Shadow didn't know what to think right now. He knew Skye was loyal to him and had always looked up to him ever since he first met him. But he never knew till now. He was about to say something, when Tank placed a hand on his shoulder, making Shadow look at him.

It's alright Pakhan. I don't mind, and I have more than enough room at my place. Besides, he is right. We will need a mechanic come race time, and my family's land has a shop he can use, and my uncle used to work in the mechanical department himself, just before he passed away last year, he had things updated so everything should be good, and he is more than welcome to update anything he needs why there.

R-REALLY TANK!?

Skye looks at him happily as his tails wag in excitement.

Yes, Druz'ya. Any Druz'ya of the Pakhan is a Druz'ya to me. But we will have to come back for your things another time.

That's alright, just give me the address and I come myself when I'm done packing. I can have Mac help me out and we can use one of the trailers to pack everything up and drive right on over. I mean...if you are alright with that, Shadow?

Skye looks at him hoping he would say yes, and after a moment he nods his head.

Very well if that is what you wish, then I have no problem. Welcome to the team, Skye.

YES!

Laughing out, Skye runs off to get Mac and start packing. Eris looks at him and scoffs.

You won't get away with this. I can promise you this, Shadow. But I'm not too worried, once I talk with him, he'll change his mind and wish to stay. Until then, get off my property, hedgehog.

Gladly, and good luck in changing Skye's mind, because it won't work.

We'll see about that.

With that, Shadow walks into the garage and hops on his motorcycle, and turns it on. Tank walks over to his truck and hops in when he sees that Birch had followed him and heads over to Bitsy's side of the truck. When she sees him, she hits the button to close her window but he stops her.

Hold on, a moment, please, Bitsy?

What Birch?

She stops rolling up the window and brings it back down and asks him, not looking at him. Sighing, he sets something in her lap. It was a wrapped box with a ribbon tied around it. It was about twelve inches tall and round. Making it fairly big.

Listen, I'm sorry I ditched you on your birthday, but I didn't forget I promise. But I hope you like it either way. And also, I promise I'll make it up to you. Soon. I promise things will become clear soon.

Anything else...Predatel'?

Birch's eyes widen, and he shakes his head sadly and steps away from the truck. Scoffing, rolling up the window as Tank turns on his truck and he pulls out. But he stops almost right away when Bitsy opens her window and looks at him as Eris walks over to him and watches them. For a moment Bitsy and Birch look at one another till she takes her gift and drops it out of the window. It rolls away from the truck, and she closes the window and tells Tank to go. Birch watches them leave as he walks over to where the box landed and picks it up, just at the same time that Shadow drives out, and purposely kicks him in the ass making him fall over. Growling, Birch looks up at Shadow as he stops and places a foot down on the ground, and looks at him.

I hope you are happy with yourself now, bear. Even your sister no longer wants anything to do with you. Until racing day, I'll be practicing to take you down. We all will be.

With that, he revs up his bike and rides off, a cloud of dust following him. Leaving Birch and Eris alone.

Are you alright?

Peachy.

Good. If you excuse me, I have a fox to turn. I will not lose Skye to that bastard.

Would you like it if I came with you?

No, I think I'll handle him myself. Besides, I think you've done enough damage already.

With that, Eris walks off to see Skye, leaving Birch behind as he heads back inside.

Back up on Angel Island...Rainbow Valley, Shinobi Forest Village…1800 hours…

And that is everything we know so far. So you see now why I need the Rainbow Rings?

Yes, we do see it now, Manik. This is truly troublesome.

If you like mother, I could head to the Tribe and Echidnaopolis and go look for myself.

Miru and Dahlia had joined Manik, Salma, and Rutan not too long ago, and as predicted, it wasn't long till Dahlia told Miru what was going on. But she did hold out long enough for him to show her what he wanted and to ask her to become his girlfriend, which she said yes to. Meaning that Salma ended up winning the bet with Manik.

NYA! I'll go as well, with the two of us I'm sure we could find something more out. Something we could be missing? It feels like there is a lot more to this than meets the eye. Every fiber in me is saying so.

Same. I get the feeling this is a lot bigger than what is going on. I've been feeling off of late and my meditation has been...DARK…up till now. I have tried several ways, even the way Grandfather does his, and nothing has worked.

Miru tells his mother. Salma hums and thinks for a moment.

Speaking of your grandfather, where is he?

I'm not sure, but your guess is as good as mine, mom.

If I had to guess, he would be up at the Shrine right now, meditating. I wonder if his has been just as Dark as yours has been or not?

It's not just my meditation that has been clouded with darkness, Salma. But my dreams as well. I feel the ancestors are trying to warn me of something dark, and deadly to come and all of Mobius could be in danger. I feel that an ancient beast is about to awaken and it will consume the Island.

Father?!

Grandfather!

Salma and Miru look over to see an older-looking white Echidna with black Sclera and golden eyes walk in. He had black markings on his head that led to a diamond on his forehead and the middle of it was golden in color with a swirling pattern in the middle of it. He had purple glasses that sat on his muzzle. He had red-rimmed eyes, an indication of when he was red before an accident happened years ago that turned him white. His hands and feet were wrapped up, but when not wrapped they were gray halfway up his forearms and legs. He looked to be in his nineties and had a long silver-gray goatee that was pulled into a tie and a black and gold silk Hanfu that had embroidered cherry blossoms on it. A gift from Espio for his birthday last year. In his left hand was his walking staff, as he heads over next to Manic who at once moved and helps him to sit. It was none other than Finitevus, a retired Scientist and father to Rutan, and father-in-law to Salma.

Hello everyone. I'm sorry to intrude, I was on my way to my room to relax when I heard cake was being served before dinner.

Oh, daddy! You are just HORRID with that sweet tooth of yours.

Salma said with a giggle as she cut him a slice, and Manik got him some tea.

Ah, thank you, thank you both. Now, why not give me the short version of what is going on, Manik?

Nodding and knowing it would do no good not to say anything, he tells him everything. After another two hours of telling, dinner came and went, and it was now eight at night.

I see. Well, for one that wasn't the short version, but two, something big is about to happen and it could be the end of Mobius as we know it.

Yeah, that is right, Master Finitevus.

After thinking for a bit, and contemplating things he stands up, grabs a hold of his staff, places an arm behind his back, and looks at Manik.

Follow me, Manik. All you come with me.

Nodding, they follow Finitevus. He leads them for a time, till he stops and looks at all of them.

As you know, the Rainbow Rings are special to Rainbow Valley. They are our sacred treasures and only every few hundred years new ones are created. Around one hundred and fifty are created every few hundred years. And it just so happens that today is the day they show themselves. As you also know, only a few are allowed to enter here to collect them. Not to say, they are also the very thing that saved me from my old vile ways when I used to be a madman and changed me, or my mind back to its original state. It is because of them I was able to reunite with the son I never knew I had.

He tells everyone, patting Rutan's shoulder and chuckling. With that said, he moves aside a bunch of flowering vines out of the way to reveal a huge hidden garden. In the middle of it was a glowing pool that shines in a multitude of colors. Around the pool, Chao flew about or rested.

Nya...Here I thought this place was beautiful during the day. But at night...Oh, CHAOS! It's like a fairy tale dream, NYA! I don't think I'll EVER not be amazed by it.

Salma and Rutan look at their son, and both seem annoyed till Finitevus chuckles.

So I take it everything went according to plan, Miru?

Miru blushes bright red and rubs the back of his head.

Yeah, it did. Thank you grandfather for the suggestion to bring her here.

He tells him as he holds her hand which Manik took notice of and smiles, happy for the both of them. He turns and focuses back on the task at hand. He looks back inside and he leads the way in. Inside at least three other people were there collecting the last of the rings. Upon seeing Finitevus they bow and greet him, and the others.

Master Finitevus, welcome back. We didn't think we would see you again today.

Yes well, something came up, and we need five of the Rainbow Rings.

But of cores. Please come with me.

Finitevus nods to Manik and they follow the person over to where she had a stack of them.

Please, take your pick, your Majesty.

Thank you.

As he picks up one a strange feeling overcomes him. Humming out he looks at them and could feel something was off about them.

They're… wrong?

Wrong, Manik? What do you mean?

Finitevus asks him as he looks at the one he was holding a bit longer, he takes out Nikki and has her run a scan over them.

According to my data, Manik, these are Rainbow Rings, but they seem to lack the power they tend to normally have. They are not as strong as they should be.

I thought so. Is it just this one, or is it all of them?

One moment, please.

Nikki runs a scan over the stack of rings and comes up with the same answer. Walking over to the other stacks the results were the same.

Strange. Father, what is going on? Why do they not shine as they should?

I do not know, Salma. But something is definitely wrong.

Master Finitevus! Master Finitevus! We have a slight problem!

Another of the gathers comes running over to him as Finitevus looks at him.

What is it, Saul?

Master Finitevus, we've gathered the rings as you asked us to, but we're missing five of them! We don't know if maybe a couple of the mischievous Chao might have taken them or if…

As if on cue, the pool shines brightly, to the point everyone had to shield their eyes from the brightness.

Manik I am detecting a spike in power coming from the pool.

A spike in power?

Manik looks over at the pool trying to see past the brightness, till it slowly dies down. Once it dies down, everyone looks over and gaps out. Hovering just above the pool were five Rainbow Rings. They gave off a shine brighter than the rest.

Those are the missing five! Oh, thank Aurora and Chaos! Quickly get them now.

Saul tells his friends and they head over to collect them when Manik calls out.

STOP! DON'T TOUCH THEM!

What?!

Saul and everyone looked over at Manik as he held Nikki.

Nikki, if you would, please?

As you wish…

Nikki scans the rings and answers him.

The power coming from all five is stronger than the ones already collected. By my calculations, these are the ones needed to form the key.

Alright, then I'll get them. I get the feeling that I should be the one to touch them.

Handing Nikki off to Dahlia, he walks over to the edge of the pool. Looking at each one, he jumps into the air and grabs the first one, and the moment he does, a strange feeling surrounds him as he lands on the side of a tree and holds onto a branch.

NYA! Look at you, Manny! You're glowing!

She's right, Manik.

Miru tells him.

By the Ancestors…

Finitevus whispers. Not missing a beat, Manik jumps from the tree and grabs the next one, and once again he starts to glow. With every ring he grabs he glows each time, the same strange feeling flowing into him. As he grabs the last one the five rings surround him, and he floats in mid-air as his eyes turn fully white and his fur turns silver with a rainbow aurora surrounding him, as visions are shown to him, and a voice-like crystal rings throughout the garden.

"The time has finally come at last. War will be upon us once again, and soon. And with it, the Black Phoenix will rise once again. You can not let it rise, for if it does, it will burn all of Angel Island and will render it useless, and it will kill the Master Emerald."

NYA!? Kill the Master Emerald?! Don't you mean break it, Nya?

Manik in his new form looks at her and shakes his head.

"I do not, Child of the Felidae tribe. I mean the Black Phoenix will kill it. The Master Emerald is one big part of the source of all the Chaos Power. A very big part of the lifeblood of this planet, and this Island. If the Dark Phoenix awakens and manages to use its Dark Flame on the Master Emerald, it will slowly drain all of the power within the Master Emerald, slowly killing it till the Dark Queen finishes destroying the planet, its people, and the animal and plant life on it. Once that happens, all of Mobius will be a barren wasteland. No plants will ever grow again. There will be no water to drink from for it will be nothing but sludge. Winds will be harsh and dry. The air will be poisonous to all who manage to survive. The soil will be dead. And all animals and people will not be able to survive should the Dark Phoenix awaken."

Then what can we do?

Salma steps up asking whoever it was that had a hold of Manik.

"The only thing you can do. Find the five keys to the five ancient Relic boxes and use the Ancient Chaos Drives within them and place them around the Island to protect it and the Master Emerald. If you manage to do this before the Black Phoenix awakens, then all of Mobius should have a chance."

NYA! You said for us to find the keys to these boxes, are you talking about the one Manik is trying to make for the one that has the royal crest of the royal family?

"Yes, the very same ones. There are four different keys to each box. Each box will have its own key to help open it, and that is where you come in, child of the Felidae tribe."

Dahlia looks at Manik and points at herself.

NYAA! ME?! How?

"You must find your key and take it to the raining leader of the Felidae Tribe. Once she sees it she will understand"

But how will I know what it looks like? How can I find it? How long do I have till this Black Phoenix awakens? Why ME?! NYA!?

"You do not have long till it awakens. As for how it looks, it will look like a golden key, with a head of a cat on it, and green gems for eyes. As to how you find it, I can only give you this to guide you."

Nya?

A gentle beam of rainbow light shoots out of Manik and right into Dahlia. Right away a soothing melody fills her ears as if she had heard it before. She closes her eyes and holds her hands close to her heart as she starts to purr.

Nya...This melody...I somehow know it. Like...like the Lullaby daddy used to sing for me when I was only a cub. He told me he heard it from someone. When I asked him where he heard it from, he said it was from my mother.

The melody stops and Dahlia opens her eyes and looks at Manik.

"This is the only thing I can give you to guide you, and the only thing I know is that it is someplace in the Felidae Lands. This is a journey only for you. Find the key, head to the Queen of the Felidae, and bring back the Relic box."

Nyaa...Only for me?! Can't I at least bring Miru with me? If something should happen and I get into trouble I don't know if I could handle it on my own! I'm not much of a fighter, I only do it for sport and to defend myself. Daddy always told me fighting was never the way, but he still allowed me to train so I could protect myself and others. I've never even been in a real battle before, NYA!

Dahlia tells the voice. There was fear in her voice as her tail was fluffed up a bit.

"Fear not then, Child of the Felidae Tribe. If you wish to take your friend with you, you may. But ONLY him. But there will come a time that you will have to fight, and it will also be that time when you'll need to decide if hiding in the shadows is the safest thing for you and your loved ones, or if fighting and risking your life is better. I do not have much time left, I have shown the young Prince where the Ancient Chaos Drives must be placed when all five are found. Now I must go. Time is of the essence, and…"

Wait! You said FIVE Keys were needed for five Relic boxes, but Manik only told us of FOUR keys! What of the other one?

Salma asked the voice.

"The fifth key and box will show itself when the time is right. But only if you can get the other four in time. Now I must go, I cannot stay in his body for long, I will lend him a bit of my power to get to Angel Zone and to the Silver Moon Rings. Tell him he has not much time left till he misses his chance."

With that, the light surrounding Manik dies down and he is slowly and gently placed on the ground, Everyone runs to his aid as he slowly comes out of it. Dahlia and Miru kneel to help him up and place his arms around their neck.

Nya...Are you alright, Manny?

Y-yeah...I think so. Just a little out of it.

Well, don't stay out of it for too long.

Miru tells him.

Why? What happened? What's going on?

We're not sure, but after you gathered all five of those Super Rainbow Rings it was like you went Hyper Manik or something, all of a sudden, and a voice took over. They said that you don't have much time to get to Angel Zone and collect the Silver Moon Rings needed for the key. They told us they left you some of their power to help get you there in time.

WHAT!? Shit, what time is it?

It's nearing ten at night. It took us an hour to get here.

Salma told him.

SHIT! DID THE VOICE SAY WHAT POWER IT GAVE ME?!

No, it didn't.

Growling out, he pushes himself away from Dahlia and Miru trying to think. As he does, something catches his eye, and he sees a symbol on the back of his hand, in the shape of a compass star glowing. He narrows his eyes, till he closes them, he concentrates, and before long he turns into Hyper Manik once again. He floats there as his eyes snap open and he takes off in a flash before anyone could say anything.

Hey...ah...Miru?

Yeah, I saw it too.

No not that, Nya...I mean...he forgot Nikki.

Well double shit...he won't be happy about that.

Nya! Nor will Sonia.

With Manik…

"This isn't good.

You're telling us, Salma, Nya. Sonia is gonna skin him alive in front of everyone.

No Dahlia, dear, I'm talking about the whole situation right now. What that voice told us is very disturbing.

What do you mean, mother?

What I mean, Miru is if that voice is right and we don't have a lot of time left before the Dark Phoenix awakens, then we need to get ready and start preparing now.

Should I warn the other villages out there, my love?

That I am unsure of, Rutan, my love. I don't wish to be the cause of panic, yet at the same time, I don't wish for us to be unprepared either. Not to say that if the voice is right about Dahlia as well, then she needs to set out and find that key in the Felidae lands, meaning that she will need to head to the main lands. But how? I know we are not anywhere near close to where the Felidae Lands are. It would take at least a week to get to the other side of the Island and to one of the transport bays that take people to and from the Island.

NYA! What are we to do then, Salma?

I am unsure at the time, Dahlia. For now, it is getting late, we should head back to our place and rest for the time, we'll figure things out in the morning.

You all head back. I need to head somewhere and get something.

Father, are you talking about the Warp Rings?

Yes, Rutan. I have a feeling we will need them. I had hoped to never pick them up again since it was why I went mad with power to start with after the accident, but I get a feeling they will be needed should the time comes.

Then please, allow me to come with you.

Very well then. Come along, son. Salma watch over thing's my dear..."

Earlier that day it had taken him and Dahlia a few hours to get to the village, which should have taken only under an hour with him running, but they decided to stop and visit Big and have some lunch. But now that he was Hyper Manik, it only took him two minutes to reach Angel Zone. Once he sets foot on the shores he races off to the pool where he knew the Silver Moon rings would come from. He reaches into his pocket to retrieve Nikki only to find out that he had left her behind, cursing and knowing he probably didn't have time to go back he heads right for the pool, and just as the moon was rising to its zenith he could see the pool glowing a silver color, and soon the Silver Moon Rings show themselves.

Good, I'm on time, but I got to do this right. I'm going to need ten of them to form the key. I just hope Mammoth Mogul will be willing to help me out. If not I'm screwed.

Not wasting a moment, he flies in and he collects the rings. After collecting them he flies off to the last known place where Mammoth Mogul was at.

Holoska… 500 miles from Icehouse Village...out in the middle of nowhere...0100 hours…

Clouds cover the never-ending night sky, and freezing winds pick up, blowing drifts of snow around. A caravan of around fifteen vehicles drives onward, bringing up a snow cloud as they drive. A storm was on the horizon and the leader of the team knew he had little time till it hit. It had taken him and his team around three days to get here, and they were now en route to where the locals said they saw a strange red light shoot up into the sky. Up front of the caravan, the leader told the driver to stop. Doing so, he gets out and looks around. The wind blows his ears and tail to the side as he closes the door behind him and walks out to the front of his truck. Humming out, he looks around as someone comes up next to him, and hands him a pair of night-vision binoculars. Taking them he brings them up and scans the surrounding area.

Hmm….Are you sure we're on the right track, Privet?

Yes, Sargent Armada.

Sargent Armada hums as he scans around, but sees nothing. Letting his arms rest he tells the Privet to get him the map. Nodding, he runs back to the truck, as Armada follows him. The Privet comes back and hands him the digital map and a paper map to make sure they were on the right track. The Private held up a light so he could see it. As he looks it over someone comes over and looks over his shoulder as they hold another light up. He points to a spot, and it was then Armada sees who it was and smiles.

As quiet as your namesake, as always, Phantom.

The one named Phantom chuckles and looks over the digital map, looks behind him, takes hold of the night vision binoculars, and looks ahead of himself. Nodding, he turns around and addresses Armada.

We're right on track, I say another two-hundred and forty-two kilometers and we should be there. But there is a problem ahead of us.

Which is?

This here.

Phantom points to a spot on both maps and Armada smiles.

So I see. Then it's a good thing you have a family who owns some of the best dog sled teams this side of Holoska. But are you sure we can't drive across there?

Yes, if we try we will surely sink. That lake is the largest in all of Holoska. The lake there will only just start freezing over and it tends to be thick enough for a dog sled team to cross. If we try to go via the trucks we may as well kiss our asses goodbye.

Will we be able to carry our equipment with us? We're going to need it should the Emerald be encased in ice.

Yes, I've made sure to have the sleds per-packed with things to help lighten the travel. But we best hurry, the storm is moving in, and the snow storms in Holoska are not to be stuck in. The tempters will end up being cold enough to freeze hell. Not to say they can last days, if not weeks.

Alright then, why not lead from here and lead the way?

Nodding he whistles to his driver who pulls out of the line and drives up to him and stops allowing him to get in. Armada and the Privet get back into their truck and Armada picks up the receiver and talks into it.

Alright, boys and girls. Listen up. Phantom will be taking the lead from here on out. So follow him. Also, how are the honorary Army pups doing, over?

Sargent Armada, this is unit six, so far the honorary Army pups are doing just fine, over.

Sargent, Armada, this is unit seven, our pups are doing good as well, over.

This is unit eight, the same goes for our pups as well over.

Very good. How is the equipment, over?

Unit twelve here, the equipment is good. So far no problems, over.

Good. Then, Phantom, lead the way, big guy.

Roger! ALL UNITS MOVE OUT ON THE DOUBLE!

ROGER!

The trucks start back and Phantom leads the way as they move out double time, it takes them just under two hours to reach the lake and the caravan stops and everyone gets out, stretches, and forms two lines of fifty members each. Armada and Phantom stand before them all and Armada addresses them.

Alright, listen up, everyone. As you know we are here to extract the Chaos Emerald Amanda found three days ago. It is just ahead of us, about another hour or so out, and across a frozen lake. We will take the dog sleds from here on out. Each sled was per-packed with food and supplies. Fifteen of them will have our food and equipment, three for the extracting equipment, and lastly, twelve for the mushers, riders, and some of our hand-held equipment. Phantom has ensured me everything is balanced out on the sleighs so we shouldn't have any problems. From here on out, I'll be leaving you all in Sargent Phantom's capable hands, so listen to him well. Sargent Phantom.

Three miles out on the frozen river… Phantom's mind as he speaks to everyone as they get things ready and move out…

"Thank you, Sargent Armada. We don't have a lot of time till the storm hits. The storms in Holoska can last from a few hours to days, even weeks. So we have enough food to last about four months SHOULD that happen? The storms have been known to last longer. But if worse comes to worst and we start to run out of food, we will hunt for it. There is plenty of wildlife around to hunt that will at times break the storm and go looking for food, and sometimes you will find frozen elk, and other wildlife which will help in the end, but if everything goes to plan we should be alright."

Dogs bark as the soldiers run about getting the sleighs down from the truck beds, along with the dogs.

"We need to try and hurry ahead of the storm that is moving in. If we can make it to the Emerald before it hits, we may have a chance. But if by chance the storm hits as we reach the middle of the lake, then we will split up."

Everyone appointed as a musher gets ready, as the rest get into their sled and wrap up with enough room to shoot should they need to.

"Half of the team will go back to the trucks and head on back to Icehouse Village and wait for us there. The other half will keep going on. Now, your attire, and sleeping equipment have specially built-in thermal heaters, prototypes thanks to the specialist's department for our equipment. They have been tested within the labs, but this will be their first field test. They should last a good long time, if things go right, I was told they could last for about two months or more without recharging. Should they fail, give a warning and get some heat packs in your uniforms and head on back, with the team member you have been appointed with. We will not risk your lives for this emerald."

Once everyone is ready, Phantom yells out for them to all move out.

"Once we reach our destination, the first thing we will do is set up our base and get things set up.

Sir, if I could be so bold?

Speak, Soldier!

Why couldn't we just bring the Heli-Jets and such?

Because the winds around this time of year are bad and can reach a freezing point that would end up freezing the air around the blades and would freeze us out of the skies. We may not be able to feel them...YET...but give it a few hours and we will. So make sure everything is in working order. The heating packs we brought along should help keep you all warm should your suits fail."

They were now about three miles out onto the lake. All around them were wide open spaces. Perfect for an ambush.

"Now once we're out on the ice we will be wide open, so those riding in the sleighs, be at the ready and keep watch for danger, and be ready to shoot. Anything you shoot leave it for the predators to finish off. Normally I would make sure we would retrieve it, but we don't have time."

As they ride on, Phantom yells out Haw, and the dogs turn left to avoid a huge rock. The others do the same as they ride on.

"Now, some of you have been taught the commands to drive your team on, and only had a short time to learn them. Normally it takes months for a driver and their team to bond, but we don't have that kind of time, so you have been paired up with some of the best dogs my family owns. They are well-trusted and extremely loyal to a fault, and no matter who their driver is they will listen to you without fail. Call the leader by name, and he or she will lead the rest."

An hour in, and they had yet even reached the middle of the lake and it looked as if the storm was moving in faster than they originally thought. Phantom sees this, as does Armada and the rest. Armada and Phantom look at one another and nod.

"Should the storm move in faster than it should, leaders, keep watch for my signal. You all should know them. But just to make sure, if I give a two-finger salute and point forward we keep moving on double time. if I circle them, then the ones carrying the food and supplies, stop and add half of your supplies to team two, you will only have two minutes to hand off half the food and supplies to team two and help tie it down and get back on your sleighs and head back. With the special night vision binoculars you should be able to see me as if we were riding during the day."

Phantom holds up a two-finger salute and motions to keep moving double time, every leader makes a clicking sound and the dogs pick up speed. They kept on moving and soon, they made it closer to the heart of the lake, but soon two sleigh teams ended up having to turn back due to their thermal suites showing signs of failure. The rest go on. It wasn't long till the winds picked up and snow fell gently at first but soon it started to pick up. During the run, at least a herd of elk shows itself but pays them no mind as they try to find shelter, but a wild musk ox shows itself and charges at them, but lucky the one's in the back took action right away and managed to take it down, which was good, for as soon as they left it behind, they heard a pack of wolves howling not too far behind them. They keep running but soon the storm ends up becoming stronger. It was now clear that this was becoming a blizzard and not a storm. Growling, he whistles and motions to Armada and he nods.

"Now the weather report said this storm coming in, is a yearly snowstorm. But should it end up becoming a full blizzard, then we will split into a smaller team, meaning that again, the teams carrying the food and supplies will once again split everything, and only fifteen sleighs of food, supplies, men, women, along with the ones carrying the extracting equipment will be with us, giving us exactly twenty-five member to our team. The signal for that will be from both me and Armada. Two fingers circling. Remember, you have two minutes to add the food and supplies to the other team's sleighs, tie everything down securely and move out and back to the trucks."

Phantom and Armada both hold up their arms and motion for the teams to fully split up into a fifteen-sleigh team. Seeing this, the ones carrying the food and supplies, stop and start splitting the food up making sure the sleighs were not too heavy. Once done, half of them turn around and head back as the others race to catch up to Armada and Phantom. It was now up to them and the rest to get that Emerald before it was too late. And splitting the team up into another smaller team would put them at risk from animals, possible not-so-friendly treasure hunters, and possibly Eggman Jr's forces should he have any here in Holoska. They couldn't risk it now. The team now consisted of three sleighs of food and supplies, for them and the dogs, giving them just a bit over two months' worth of food. Two with the extracting equipment, and ten with Armada, Phantom, and the rest of the men and women. Giving a total of twenty-five men and women at their beck and call. They push on forward, not looking back. They had to make it to their destination no matter what. Getting that Chaos Emerald was vital. It takes them longer now because the visibility is poor, even with the special night vision binoculars it was hard, and all they had to help was the infrared settings to follow everyone's heat signatures. Minutes seem like hours as they ride on to their destination. It took nearly three hours but they soon managed to make it safely across the lake with no more problems. From there on in, it took them another two hours to reach their destination, and according to their tracker, it was now nearing seven in the morning. The men and women, as well as the dogs, were growing tired but they couldn't stop. Not yet. They had to find a safe place to set up camp. And knowing just a place, Phantom signals everyone to follow him to an old cabin he knew of. It doesn't take them long to reach it, and once there, they set about unhitching the dogs and taking them to the small barn close by. After, they all head inside with the food and supplies and set them in a corner. Armada orders the men and women to go out and find some wood to get a fire going. Some head out to do that, while the rest start to unload.

How did you know this was here, Phantom?

Armada asks him.

It was an old friend of the family's. He gave us the deed to it just before passing. Saying that if we ever needed a place to crash during a blizzard this would be it.

The ones who had gone out for wood came back in and started a fire.

Good, now that you are all here, listen up. First thing is first. We need to make sure the pups are happy and fed. Was there any hay in the barn?

Yes, there was. It still looked good. We put them five to a pen.

One of the soldiers says.

Good, once done here, go back out and spread some hay about as thickly as possible to help keep them warm. Check their paws, make sure they're alright, and feed and water them. Now even though this place is big, it will still be cramped but we have to make do. There are twenty-five of us all together. There are only two rooms. Armada and I will take one room with some of the boys, and four of you can camp in the other one. There are two beds in the rooms. If you think you can handle it, then two of you can share a bed, and two can camp on the floor, making six to the other room. And no mixing and matching, guys. The last thing we need is an orgy going on.

They laugh at that as Phantom goes on.

Now, the ladies will get first dibs on the room tonight, then the boys, and so on. At least till we can head out and get that emerald. I've already told you all this, but this blizzard could last weeks. So try not to get cabin fever while we wait it out. And no killing your fellow soldier either is that clear?!

YES SIR!

Good. Now, some of you head out and go tend to the pups. Ladies, pick among you, who will be the lucky four or six to have the room first, and I know at least one of you can cook, so take a look at our food supply and get us a meal going. The rest of you try and clear out some space to sleep in, and if you feel like it, go sleep with the pups, they'll love you for it.

That'll be me! I got dibs with my team! No way am I leaving them out there all alone!

Again, everyone laughs as the guy takes his share of the sleeping supplies and heads out to get a spot ready.

Hell, I'll go join Mathews, myself. Beats staying in here with you lot. I know at LEAST three of you have GOT to snore like a fucking BEAR!

HEY! WATCHING YOUR TONGUE THERE, RAINNA!… I find that HIGHLY Insulting.

One of them, a bear, says in a playful hurt tone as he folds his arms and sticks his nose in the air. Rainna was a pretty Hyena, with golden-amber eyes, cream-colored hair, and brown and black fur.

Oh come on now, Grizz, you know I was only joking.

She nudges him playfully, chucking out.

Besides, you know I can't sleep without your snoring anyway. I've gotten so used to it.

Grizz looks down at Rainna with a cocked eyebrow. After a moment he lets out a hearty laugh, and pats her back.

I would hope so, baby, with as long as we've been together.

So what do you say? Wanna come sleep with the pups with me?

You know it.

Hey, what did I just say about mixing and matching?

Phantom looks at the two of them with a cocked eyebrow and a fold of his arms. They look at him sheepishly as Rainna rubs the back of her head giggling out.

Sorry, sir, but I promise we'll behave. Me and Grizz here haven't really seen one another much since we're part of different units and all. Even when we have home leave for a few weeks it's hard since our places are opposite sides of the base and it takes nearly three hours to go see one another, and even then it's a short visit.

Armada pats Phantom's shoulder and chuckles.

Let them have this moment. You should know what that is like. Or do I need to tell everyone in this room about the time with you and General Larksays Daughter and what you two had to do to see one another while ON THE base mind you?

Phantom face turns bright red and he looks at Armada.

You wouldn't dare?

Yeah, I would. Unless…

Armada gives him a sly smile, showing a rare playful side to him during work.

OK, OK, fine. But only YOU TWO and no one else. Got it!

Sir, yes sir!

Grizz and Rainna say together as they grab their share of sleeping gear and head out.

Besides, Mathews will be with us, sir. So not like we could do any funny biz anyway!

Raina tells him as they leave. Armada laughs as well, patting his shoulder, as he goes to help out where he could. Soon it wasn't long till everyone settled in for the night, had a hot meal, and soon went to sleep, some keeping guard till morning. During the night they had switched guards, and yet the storm outside was still raging on, it looked as if they were going to be stuck there for a long time, and come morning they found out how long they would be stuck there.

Well, this just beats all, doesn't it?

Armada says with a deep sigh as he looks out the window. Phantom hums and nods, as he answers him.

We could be stuck here for weeks. The blizzards in Holoska can last for weeks on end as I did state. I just hope we're not too late in the end. Or that girl of yours will have ALL our hides.

Tell me about it.

Letting out a deep sigh, he looked at his team and knew it would be hard for them, but they'd been in worse spots before. So he knew they could do it.

Alright everyone listen up.

Everyone in the room looks at him waiting to hear what he has to say.

It looks like this storm won't be letting up any time soon, and we're going to be stuck here for a time, so until then, we will have to do our best to hold out. I know we have been in tougher spots before, so I know we have this. We will have to just hold out till then. We have enough food for about two months, which I truly hope won't come to that. But we are close to our adjective so far so we just need to hold on. So until then, we will rotate the sleeping spots, meaning that everyone will get to use the spare bedroom at some point till this shit blows over. Some of you can, if you like, sleep out in the bard with the pups, and keep them company, watch over them, and everything else. But until we have an opening we need to hold out. Is this understood?

YES SIR!

Good, now to start, since it looks as if this place is well covered by the dense forest, I want some of you to head out and take recon.

On hearing this some groan out, making Armada growl at them.

WHAT WAS THAT?!

SIR! YES, SIR!

That's what I thought. Sorry, but just because we're in a nice cozy little place doesn't mean that you all get to slack off. Now first up will be Private Reeves, Sanchez, Marcos, Mason, Trevor, and Strives. You're to go out and look around and see if you see anything or sense anything out of the ordinary. It will be hard to do with this wind roaring out, but I don't wish to take a chance of Ivan getting the best of us. Mason, you're in charge of things since you're nearing your next ranking. If you pull this off, I'll see to it that you are promoted to Private Second class. I'm counting on you!

SIR, YES SIR!

Good now get going!

The six that were called get bundled up and head on out as Armada lets out a sigh and looks out the window watching them.

Do you truly think Ivan will try and come for the Chaos Emerald in this shit?

Armada leans an arm on the window frame then his forehead on it and lets out a sigh.

Six Hundred Miles Off The Coast Of Crystal Cove Beach… Crystal Star Island… Hidden Eggman Base 1100 hours…

"Wouldn't be the first time he's tried something like this. If he's anything like his father he will take the chance. It wouldn't surprise me if he already knew about it and had someone on their way here now to get it.

What will we do when he shows up?

Fight him of course. We need that Chaos Emerald for the Chaos Gear. In truth, we need all seven of them.

But do you truly believe in what that Weasel Wolf told us?

I do, yes. I don't know HOW to explain it, but it's a gut feeling. And you know I've never been one to ignore my gut. Even Amanda feels it too. So I'm willing to take the risk.

If you say so, Sasha. But I'm getting a very bad feeling about all of this.

You and me both my friend. You and I both."

Oh, Junior! Junior! Where aaaare youuuu? AH! There you are.

Ivan scoffed and rolled his eyes behind his goggles, annoyed already with who was calling in as he worked. As he worked, sparks flew from what he was working on, ignoring the annoying person.

Junior, I have some news for you.

What is it, Orbot?

Ivan asked in a slightly deadpan voice.

Well, I wanted to inform you that the radars picked up something in the middle of Holoska.

And I should care, WHY!?

Well from the readings it looks like it could be a Chaos Emerald.

Ivan stops his work and looks at Orbot as he removes his goggles and hums out, narrowing his deep blue eyes at the robot.

You don't say?

I do say, yes.

Intriguing…

Humming out, he rubs his chin with his rubber-gloved hand thinking.

You said, Holoska, did you not?

Why, yes I did.

Hmm…

Thinking once again, he sets his things aside and rolls his chair over to a computer, and types away at it. After a time some images pop up along with schematics.

Holoska is where one of my father's old bases is. But it hasn't been used in some time, he abandoned it a long time ago, due to how cold that place could get. There used to be an Egg Boss there but the old fool died a long time ago in No Zone Prison. Meaning that the place is nothing but an empty husk of itself. But why of all places would a Chaos Emerald be there?

Maybe it needed a place to cool off?

Cool off?

Ivan looked over at Cubot who was floating in, confused.

Well, yeah. I mean it is red and all glowy, and fiery, like fire. I mean it is filled with it right? Or one of them lava rocks so maybe it needs someplace to cool off. Maybe it's like one of them fiery rock candies you used to love, boss.

Still love mind you. Just a shame they stopped making them.

Ivan lets out a sigh as Orbot speaks.

Oh, come now, Cubot.

Orbot looked at his brother and folded his arms.

That is the stupidest thing I have ever heard. Why in the world would a Chao Emerald need to cool off? It's not alive at all. It is nothing more than a crystal full of power.

Very hot power.

Cubot stats.

Hot...power...

Ivan thinks for a moment when something dawns on him.

No?! Could it be...

Typing away at his computer quickly he calls Risa who should be back any moment. The screen turns to static for a moment till Risa's face shows up.

Egg Boss Risa, come in. Do you read me? Where are you right now?

I'm just now docking at the base sir.

Good, I need you to bring me the results, and the Chaos Emerald to me at once!

Yes...About that sir?

Egg Boss Risa, why do I sense hesitation in your voice?

Risa scratches the back of her head looking away slightly.

There….There was a problem on our way back, Sir.

What SORT of problems, Egg Boss Risa?

Ivan asks her in a very tart tone not liking what he was hearing.

We were composed last night on our way back, sir.

What do you mean by "Compromised", Egg Boss Risa?

Well, sir, we had finished the last of the testing last night, and just before I went to bed, I had the men lock the emerald up, and I headed to my room for the night. I'm so sorry sir, truly I am! I don't know who they were but they looked to be a couple of kids no older than fifteen or seventeen years old! They got the best of us and managed to hack into the safe and take the Chaos Emerald. But my men did shoot one of them, so it would be a miracle if they survive the shots. But they did give my men the run around nonetheless.

And what of the results? Are they alright?

Yes, from my understanding, the files look fine. But I wouldn't put it past whoever they were to have planted a worm in my laptop.

I see. Shame that the Emerald was lost, but no matter. So long as I have the data everything should be fine. But now, it makes me wonder.

Sir?

Send me the data at once, I'll look it over. Your sub-boss should be there waiting for your command, have them get a team ready to head out to Holoska at once. Use my new Egg-Jets to get there, it should only take you about a day and a half to get there.

Holoska?! What is out there that you need?

A new Chaos Emerald. Apparently, according to Orbot a new one just showed itself, and Cubot being the moron that he is, came up with the idea that it is there because it is too...HOT...so to say.

Hot? I don't understand sir.

Indeed. I didn't get it myself till something dawned on me. I had hoped to get my hand on the blue Chaos Emerald you managed to get your hands on, and LOST to study it more but the data will do just fine. But I believe it could be connected with what you have told me about the Blue Emerald. So send me the data and get ready to head on out right away.

Right away sir. But sir, if I may?

Yes, what is it?

I've been away too long as is. If I stay away any longer they will begin to ask questions.

But are you not the General of Huckshore Base?

I am yes, but I do follow someone as well. Said I had to take a couple of weeks off for personal matters and to personally check on someone. So I think it is best I take the next few days to do just that so I have an alibi.

Very well, then have your new sub-boss deal with this matter and warn them what will happen if they fail me.

Yes sir. Is there anything more?

Yes, consider yourself lucky right now that I don't punish YOU, Egg Boss Risa. Not with the new little life you are carrying within you. I mean it would be such a shame if you were to lose the one last thing that means so much to you since you lost the love of your life a few months ago.

What?!

Ivan chuckles softly as he narrows his eyes at her and folds his hands together and he rests his chin on them smiling a sly knowing smile.

What? Did you think I wouldn't know about the child you carry within you right now as we speak? Do you think I'm that nevi to not know? You forget Risa, I have eyes and ears all over, and one of my resources told me that you are pregnant with Maxwell Samuel Monroe's child. It would be such a shame if something were to happen to both of you why under my loving...CARE...hmm hmm hmm…

The look on Risa's face was that of dread and fear. Knowing if she screwed up once again, it would be more than her own life on the line, but that of her child as well. Growling, as she places a hand on her midsection she nods.

I'll…I'll see to it they know. I promise you I will not fail you again sir. I'll see to it that the Chaos Emerald is retrieved at once.

At the loading docks of the hidden Eggman Base...1115 hours…

See to it that you do, Risa. For the sake of your unborn child, you better make sure. Because if you don't, and you happen to avoid detection from G.U.N of who you truly are, you can guarantee that once the child is born I will be taking it, raising it till it is five years old and I will experiment on it to create my next ideal for the future of the Eggman Empire. And if you try to run, Egg Boss Risa, I will hunt you down to the ends of Mobius and I will take that child by any means. In fact, if you run from me Risa, I will not only hunt you down, but once I have you in my clutches I will see to it that you are part of the experimentation. And I promise you, they will not be gentle. Now, get going. You're wasting my time.

Just before Ivan ended the call, the look on Risa's face pleased him a great deal. The look on her face was one of fear and dread. Ivan laughs darkly as the screen turns to static and she just stands there knowing that she couldn't fail him a second time, not unless she wished to keep her child. As she stood someone was heading over to her when someone dropped a wrench, at the same time that the other person came near, breaking the spell held over her. She roars out making everyone stop what they were doing as she turns around, she extends her claws and swipes at a wooden crate breaking it into pieces. The person who was coming over and was near the boxes ducks out of the way in time as she punches some plastic barrels and sends them flying. One of them hits someone, knocking them down and the other two go flying into a wall breaking as the water in it goes flying everywhere hitting some. The third one hits the ground and cracks and rolls till it hits a support beam. Everyone looks on and watches her as she goes on a rampage. It wasn't until she was about to break the neck of the person close to her did she realize who it was by their outfit. Letting out a deadly growl, she squeezes their neck till they start to choke. They start clawing at her arm and kicking in mid-air trying to breathe as she brings them close to her face so they were touching noses. The look on the person's face showed udder fear to the point his eyes were nothing but pinpricks, and he swore he could feel something warm running down his legs.

Get this shit cleaned up right now, and make sure that the Egg-Jets are fueled and ready to go in no more than ten minutes. Take the strongest robots Ivan has and head to Holoska and GET ME THAT EMERALD RIGHT NOW! BECAUSE IF YOU DON'T, I WILL MAKE SURE YOU WILL NOT BE THE ONLY ONE TAKING THE FALL! NOW GET GOING YOU PATHETIC LITTLE SHIT!

Risa roars out as she throws her Sub-Boss across the room and into a couple of men, as she growls and turns around. They all fall over as they look at her as she walks away yelling over her shoulder.

AND CHANGE YOUR FUCKING CLOTHING, YOU PIG! I WON'T HAVE MY SUB BOSSES SMELLING LIKE PISS AND SHIT!

Risa storms off as the men get up. The one she had threatened looked on, trembling.

Is...Is...Is she always like...that?

He asks them, scared right now.

Trust me, we got lucky right now. On our way here she ended up killing someone in cold blood and ripped out her heart because we lost the Chaos Emerald. I take it you are the new sub-boss?

Y-Yes...I...I am… My name is Marshal Minx.

Well, Marshal, just try not to piss her off too much and you'll live to see another day. But hearing how she is pregnant right now and how he threatened her child. Well, trust me, none of us knew till just now, so now we're all going to be watching our backs. Risa is not one to fuck with and piss off. So try not to worry too much. Just treat her like a queen for the time being, and be a good little lap dog...er...mink, and keep your head low and you should be fine.

Th-Thank you…

Come on, I'll show you around since I get the feeling you've yet to be to this Base, and it can get confusing. We'll head to the jets first and get them and the bots ready.

Thank you...um?

Call me Xavier. I'm one of her right-hand men other than you now. Now come on, let's go get you changed first. Everyone is starting to stare at us.

R-Right.

Xavier shows him out and takes him back to his room to shower and change, and soon they had the Egg-Jets ready to go, and the robots were now loading up. They get on with several men and they head out and right for Holoska. On a much smaller, one-person Jet, Risa heads back to the mainland to go see Eris. The person who she said she needed to see. It was time to see how she was fairing. But she knew it would be a risk in itself since Eris all but disowned her due to what happened to her father. Growling, she pushes on the stick and picks up speed. It only takes her about an hour to reach the mainland and she heads right for Eris' place.

Monroe Mansion Cabin...1145 hours...Skye's workshop…

Eris walks into Skye's workshop and sees him packing things up. Mac was moving boxes around as he took a few to the Mobile Workshop to be moved out. As she passes him he asks to leave for a bit to give her and Skye time, he nods and leaves the workshop to give them time alone. Skye had a hold of a box under his arm and looked at his phone and hummed out.

Wow, that is way out there. But I bet the view is amazing.

Skye?

Eris calls out, making him look up. Shutting off his phone, he sets it and the box down, and looks at her.

Eris? What's wrong?

Even though he was still upset about her forcing Shadow to leave, and the fact that something was wrong with her, he still cared about her. She was his best friend like Shadow was.

I wanted to talk with you about doing this. Are you sure you truly wish to leave my team after everything we've been through?!

Yes, I do. I know you need me. But Shadow does as well.

Shadow?! Sky… he ATTACKED Birch. You expect me to let that pass!?

No of cores not! But…

But what?! Skye you were not there, he attacked Bitsy first.

WHAT!?

It's true.

That isn't what Shadow said.

Shadow is lying Skye! Don't you see? He can't be trusted!

You're wrong Eris. He can be trusted, and you know it!

Skye says as he stands there folding his arms, as his tails lash behind him.

Skye, he can't be trusted. He knew about my father being on the battlefield that day and never told me. Not to say I found out something as well. Something I didn't even know about him.

What are you talking about?

Skye asks her as she walks closer to him. She looks away and holds an arm and folds her ears back and lets out a deep sad sigh. Skye at once perked his ears up and let his arms fall to his side as he could see something was wrong.

Eris?

I recently found out, just shortly after we got here, when he was King for a short time, that he ended up killing someone who was close to me and daddy.

What?!

Skye's eyes widen in shock as he holds up a hand to her, taking a step closer to her.

I...I don't understand. Shadow hasn't been King for years now. Not since we were no more than tiny babies!

That may be true, but you know how ruthless he was. Or so the history books say. But you know I would never lie to you.

I… I know you wouldn't. But how can you be sure about this?

Because he admitted it himself. I have the proof. When I found out about it I confronted him about it and he didn't hesitate in admitting it to me. He didn't know about it, but I recorded him. He admitted his crime of murdering my mother Skye. Punished her in front of hundreds.

Eris tells him, becoming upset.

WHAT!?

It's true Skye! I promise you it's true!

B-But your dad said….

That she was sick? Yes, she was, but...

How can you be sure about this?

Skye asks her feeling something was slightly off, but even still, he felt compelled to go to her and comfort her seeing how upset she was getting. So going over to her, he pulls her into a hug and wraps his arms around her as she balls her hands on his chest and tries to hold back a sob. The whole time playing the innocent victim.

Because I ran into someone who used to know my family and used to work under him as one of the castle servants. They told me it had been years since they last saw me, and the last time they saw me was when I was still a baby. Daddy told me when I was older that she died because of her sickness, when in truth that wasn't it. He told me that because he couldn't bring himself to tell me the truth he murdered her in cold blood in front of hundreds. He was there and I was only a baby still so he felt it was the right thing to do since I wouldn't understand.

Eris this is horrid, I won't lie about that one bit. But your father trusted him. Didn't he?

Only because he was scared of him and his powers, Skye. He knew he would hurt me or even him, leaving me all alone. He had no choice but to follow him, Skye. Daddy only trusted him after his fall as king because he wanted to make sure he wouldn't try and pull something again. Even though I could take care of myself now. But he never fully trusted him. Skye, they showed me the video of what he did to my mother. It was so AWFUL!

Eris gaps out as she finally lets out a sob. Tears fall down her cheek, as Skye holds her, trying to comfort her as best as he could.

S-Skye I'm scared he could...could hurt you...if he finds out. So PLEASE don't go. I'm begging you. Stay here with me where I know you'll be safe! I'm begging you.

Eris...I…

PLEASE, Skye!

Eris looks up at him shaking. Tears roll down her cheeks as she begs him to stay. Looking down at her, and seeing her so distraught, he starts to rethink things.

Please?

She begs him once again, in such a way he couldn't say no to her. Letting out a sigh, and folding his ears back, he brings a hand to the back of her head and pushes it into his shoulder.

Al...Alright... I'll stay. I'll call Shadow and let him know I wish to think this through at least.

She nuzzles him and looks up at him smiling.

Oh Skye, thank you.

She leans in and gets ready to kiss him as she says something just under her breath that Skye catches.

Kiss of Darkness…

E-Eris…?

But before he could finish saying anything, she kisses him and his eyes widen in shock as he feels something take over him. He pushes her away as he stumbles and ends up knocking several things to the floor. They make a loud clanking sound, as he bends over coughing.

W...what….did you...do to me...Eris?!

Eris starts to laugh. Slowly and softly at first as she starts to change right before his eyes. Her fur changed to a dark coal gray as delicate and intricate flame-like markings started to show up. A pair of small wings form on her back and a whip-like tail forms behind her, as a pair of curved horns form and her hair starts to turn black with ruby-red streaks running through it. Her left eye turns to a deep crimson ruby color, just like the eyes of a hedgehog he knew of. Only a fourth of her was still the same. With a bit of brown, pink, and white, and wine red.

N...NO!?

Skye coughs out, as he tries to fight it.

Ah, but yes, my sweet little twin-tailed fox boy.

N...NO!

Don't fight it, Skye. Accept it and become one of my many followers. I need you, Skye. I promise you, you will like it.

No...No! I won't join you! Whoever you are, I won't! Shadow warned me of what he saw that day in the Meadows! I won't join you!

Oh, but you will. You won't be able to resist my power, young Prowers. You will become part of my followers. You will do as you are told. Besides I need your help in preparing for the rise of the Black Phoenix.

W-What?...ugh….no! I Won't...AAH!….NO! YOU WON'T….WHAT DID YOU DO TO ME!?…YOU...YOU MONSTER!

Skye looks at his left hand and sees that it was starting to turn dark coal gray like Eris' fur. Eris chuckles darkly as she walks over to him.

Do you like it? It comes with the territory of becoming my follower or general. When you receive your eye color then we will know what you will become. He, he, he.

Y-You won't get away with this...W-Who...AHHHH! Who...are you!?

Oh, where are my manners? I am Dark Trinity. Queen to the Black Arms Empire.

Skye yells out as he falls to the floor. He holds his head as he tries to stand back up, but he ends up falling back down. Trinity laughs as she watches him wither in pain.

Strange? All the rest didn't fight as much as you are right now. They were more willing. At least the ones I've turned were. In truth, I've only turned one so far. My Generals have turned more than I have. So it is strange to see one fighting like you are. Does it hurt that much? Because Birch never once let out a yelp when he turned. So it makes me wonder what is...Oh...oh my? What is this?!

As Eris watches on she flutters into the air and watches as Skye's tails split into several more tails, each one becoming longer and more whip-like, each with a deadly-looking tip.

Oh, how intriguing! But why are your tails splitting like that? Very intriguing.

As Skye yells out again, Mac comes rushing into the workshop to see what was going on. He stops dead in his tracks as he looks on wondering what is going on.

W-What is going on here?! SKYE!? ERIS!?...Wait? Eris!?

Huh?

Eris looks behind her and smiles at seeing Mac before them.

Ooo… lookie at what we have here. Hello Mac.

E-Eris? W-what is going on?! What is wrong with Skye? What HAPPENED to you?!

Eris chuckles as she floats there Birch slowly and silently comes up behind Mac. She folds her arms and places a finger under her chin smiling coyly.

Wouldn't you like to know, Mac? He, he, he. Birch, why not show him why my new little puppy changes his form?

Huh?!

Mac turns around, and before he could say something let alone scream out, Birch attacks him, plunging his claws down and slashing Mac, taking him off guard. He goes flying and lands on the floor as blood starts to pool around him.

M...MAC...N...NOOO...GAAH!

Skye howls in pain as he starts to sub-come to the dark powers of Trinity. Trinity's eyes widen in pure delight as Skye fully changes into her next General. He falls over and curls into the fetal position trying hard to not cry out. But soon the transformation was complete and Skye stopped moving. For a long time, everything is quiet as Trinity watches on. Waiting for him to fully awaken. As she waits, Eris speaks to her.

In Eris' mind…

"Trinity...was...was that truly necessary?

Yes, it was. I need him to help with bringing the Black Phoenix back to life. Thanks to that little toy Ivan gave us it will be the perfect addition to what I have planned.

But...Skye...why him of all people. We could have found someone else! Oh, Skye, I'm so sorry! And Mac too! DID YOU HAVE TO KILL MAC AS WELL!? HE DID NOTHING WRONG!

SHUT IT! REMEMBER WHAT WE ARE FIGHTING FOR, ERIS! A FEW SACRIFICES WILL NOT MATTER IN THE END! REMEMBER WHY WE ARE DOING THIS!

I...I do...but at what cost? I'm starting to think this was a bad idea. I never wanted any of my friends hurt, Trinity.

Do not worry, Skye will be fine. But you have to stay focused, Eris. If you lose it now then everything will be lost. Remember what Shadow did to you. The lies he has told. The killing he has done. Remember. Remember it all. Remember he was the one who killed your father. Kept things from you. Killed me. Your best friend and sister. Or should I remind you again?"

Trinity growls as she once again shows the evil Shadow had done. The lies he kept. The people he had killed, and more importantly, how he killed her father.

"Remember, Eris. He knew your father was there. He never told you about it till it was too late. Remember how he kept it from you? Hid it from you? He was the one that truly killed your father. Not Ivan. It was him, and G.U.N. it was their missile that killed him. Remember.

No...No don't...I don't want to remember his death! STOP IT, TRINITY!

Remember Eris. He killed me, your best friend and sister, in cold blood. And no one did a thing to stop him. Your father tried and he could do a thing against Shadow. Remember….remember….remember…."

Trinity keeps repeating the word over and over again as she brings up the battle with Ivan. Where he attacked and hit one of G.U.N's missiles out of the way and sent it flying toward her father and she couldn't do anything to stop it, or save him in time.

"Remember Eris, it was all Shadows doing.

N-NO! It was my fault! MY FAULT! I COULDN'T GET THERE FAST ENOUGH TO SAVE HIM!

NO! It was Shadow's fault. Remember, he KNEW your father was there. He KNEW what was going on long before you did. He KNEW that he would end up getting killed! SHADOW KNEW AND DID NOTHING! NOTHING! He stood off to the side as he watched what was going on. He had time to save him. He could have used Chaos Control to stop time and gone to save him. But he didn't.

W-What? no...that isn't...that can't...no...everything happened so...so fast that...no!

It is true! I saw it all happen.

H-How?! I thought that…

That I wasn't present at the time? Wasn't around and watching at the time? Oh, but I was. Just because you didn't know till a couple of months ago, doesn't mean I wasn't around."

Trinity shows more of what happened during the battle with Ivan a few months ago. But she ends up twisting the truth. She shows her how the G.U.N missile was going right for Ivan and at the last second a flash of bright light that no one saw at first with so much going on, shows up right in front of the missile and kicks it at the same time Ivan swings his arm making it look like he had hit it and sent it flying right at her father and his men. A second later, Trinity shows how it was none other than Shadow who had done it.

"N...No! DADDY!

I have always been around. Watching and waiting till the time was right. It took for you to be at your lowest for me to come out and help you. Remember Eris, only we have the power to stop him, take down the Matriarchs of Mobius, and bring the planet under our rule. Remember Eris."

Trinity shows her more and more of that day. Of everything that happened. How Shadow teleported back to where he was, why everyone was watching Eris as she went to try to help her father. Showed her how he stood there doing nothing. Shows the lies she fabricated to ensure that Eris would continue believing her.

"Don't you see? He was the one that killed your father, no one saw him because they were focused on you. They tried to STOP you. They didn't WANT you to save him at all. Remember?

N...No...they…"

Eris fights with what she was seeing but it was no good. She knew and believed them to be true.

"Y...Yes...I do...how...but Skye...he...he crashed into the building...and…

And this is why we must do this. With Skye under our control, we can protect him! Do you wish to see your friend killed by that monster!?

N...No...I…"

Eris couldn't think right as she kept watching everything Trinity was showing her unfold. She was right. Shadow was a monster. He HELPED Ivan kill her father. And in doing so everything started to become clear to her. And if she let Skye follow Shadow, he would likely kill him. She couldn't let that happen. Could she? But somehow…something felt off...she couldn't place a finger on it...but...As Eris watches the scene over and over again as her father lies dying in her arms. Her eyes start to glass over as the memories come rushing back from that day, taking over once more. Trinity was right. She had always been right. She…

"Has never led me astray…

That's right.

You have always been my friend...my...SISTER…

You're sister. And would a sister ever lie to you?

N...No… For you have always been there for me…

Yes, that is right. I have always been there for you. Even if you didn't know it."

Trinity tells her as she goes over to her and behind her pulling her into a hug, as she gently strokes her head as Eris goes on in the same robotic-like tone.

"Till the end...when...he killed you...you have always...he...killed my father...my only family…

That is right, Eris. Shadow killed your father, and now he wishes to kill your best friend as well. You don't want that, now do you?

N...No...I need to keep...Skye...safe...protect him...he is all the family…I have left...I cannot let...that monster have him...I must help bring order to...Mobius…I must become it's ruler….must help bring order...must revive you once again…

That is right, Eris. You promised you would help me become whole once more.

To become...whole once...more...I promised you...and...and Skye is needed to help bring the Black Phoenix back…

That is right.

I...I understand...now….I'm sorry...I'm so sorry…"

Eris starts to cry but Trinity gently shushes her.

"There, there my little sister. There is no need to cry.

But...Mac...he…

He was working for the hedgehog. He would have run to him and told him what was going on. It was a necessary loss. I know Mac meant a lot to you, but Shadow had already gotten to him. So it had to be done. I am truly sorry.

Oh, Mac…"

Eris starts to cry as Trinity comforters her. Gently shushing her.

"Now, now. Do not cry. I promise when the time comes, I will see to it he is brought back to life. Now we have work to do and I need you to focus. Can you do that for me?

Y...Yes...yes, I can...I think I can…No. I know I can. I'm so sorry Trinity. I got confused and lost for a moment. I understand now. We need Skye's help to bring back the Black Phoenix. We need it in order to take down Angel Island.

That is right. I'm glad you are back with me. Now watch, Skye is coming out of it.

Right. Leave everything to me."

Back in the real world, present time….

Skye moans out as he slowly comes to. Eris walks over to him and kneels, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Hey, are you alright Skye?

Y-yeah...I think so. But what happened?

You've changed.

Changed?

Yes, come take a look.

Eris stands back up and holds out a hand to him. He looks up at her and takes hold of it as she helps him up. She leads him to the dressing rooms he had in his workshop and over to a mirror. Upon seeing himself, Skye gaps out.

W-what in Mobius happened to me?

Trinity saved you.

Saved me?

Yes, saved you from Shadow's hold he had over you.

Had over me? I don't understand.

Skye looks at her and then back at his reflection. His fur had turned a dark coal gray, and his chest and tips of his tail were now a deep blood-red color. He had markings much like Eris' when not in her Black Arms form, that went up to his elbows and knees, that was the same blood red. He now had nine tails, and throughout the tails were sharp quills, tipped a toxic red color. But his most distinguished feature was his eyes. His eyes were a pure gold color. Upon seeing them, Eris gasps out as Trinity takes over.

Intriguing? I've never seen golden eyes before. And your tails. Just look at them!?

Trinity takes a hold of one and wraps it around her as she strokes it.

It's so soft, and the quills in it, I haven't seen anything like this since the Black Arms Jager. I wonder if they're poisonous like the Jagers were? Oh, I just love them. And you've even grown some as well.

Trinity keeps stroking it as Eris speaks.

This is fine and all, but what will that mean for his regular form? Will he end up keeping all nine of his tails or will they go back to being only two tails? If he ends up keeping all nine, it will raise questions and suspicion.

I am not sure. But look at his eyes. I've never seen anything like them. Birch, come here!

Trinity calls Birch over and he comes to stand next to Skye.

Just look at their eyes, Eris.

Yes, I see them. But why are they more golden than Birches?

I don't know. but this is very intriguing.

Eris folds her arms and places a finger under her chin and closes her eyes. She paces for a few moments thinking, and a few moments later she stops and addresses Birch.

Birch, I have come to a decision. As punishment for losing the bearer of Hope and Light, you will be demoted down two levels, and Reggie and Skye will be taking your place by my side as my Knights and leader of you and the rest. You will still be a General in our army, but as of right now, you will be taking orders from Skye and Reggie. Do you understand?

I understand, your majesties.

Good. Now, Skye, we're going to need your help.

I take it has something to do with the Black Arms Phoenix.

Yes. Now listen closely…

Mystic Ruins...Babylon Rogues hideout and home...1400 hours...three days after the heist after the presumption of River, Radian, and Thunders being killed…

Soft footsteps were heard down the dimly lit hallway as Sunny walked down to Rivers' room. Once there she knocks on the door and opens it, peeking in. Rivers' room was messy. Her bed was a mess and her pillow was at the foot of her bed, on it was a stuffed, hero Chao. Papers and old discarded blueprints were scattered around on the floor with some tools and dirty clothing. In one corner of her room was her desk which was messy as well with some sort of unfinished project on it, and her trash bin was overflowing with discarded paper. On the wall were notes and blueprints. In another corner of the room was an Extreme Gear that River had been working on. Her window was opened allowing a gentle breeze to blow in, making the curtains billow in the breeze. Taking a small step into her room, Sunny calls out.

Hey River! River are you here?

Nothing. Not a sound or a hello came from the room. Letting out a sigh she turns around and leaves closing the door behind her and she walks down to Radian's room. Unlike his sister's room, his door was wide open. Sunny hurries down the hallway and stops and peeks around the door frame and looks inside. Radian's room was just as messy as his sister's room, if not even more so. If she had to compare it to Rivers, His room was like a health hazard with how gross it was. Even Wave said it was one with how bad it was and how it smelled at times. His bed was a disaster, as a pillow lays against it on the floor. On his bed was a comic book he had been reading, and on the nightstand was his lamp, a digital clock, and a Chaos Energy drink. His floor could hardly be seen with all the junk on it that ranged from old papers, dirty clothing, empty food wrappers and containers, and more. His desk was in the corner of the room and on it, it had a triple-screen computer where he would game, and some uneaten food and cans. His waste bin was overflowing with uneaten food, old papers, cans, and paper cups, and flies buzzed around it. His gaming chair was pulled out from the desk and turned sideways and on its left armrest were some dirty socks and on the back of it was a towel. On the walls were some posters of some bands he liked and a signed Extreme Gear by a team he loved. His window was closed and the curtains opened allowing sunlight to filter on. She stands there as she looks around and calls out to him.

Radian!? Hey Radian! Are you here? You're not trying to scare me again, are you? Radian!

Nothing. Nothing but silence answers her, as well as the stench from his room. Sunny's bottom beak trembles as she lets out a sniffle and runs to her brother's room. As she nears it, she bursts into his room and stands at the door panting. Holding a shaking hand to her little chest, she walks inside and to the middle of the room. Unlike Rivers and Radians room. Thunder's room was pretty much spotless. Not counting a few things on the floor. His bed was made, and pillows fluffed up. His nightstand was nice and clean, and his waste bin was empty. His desk was in the corner, clean and his gaming chair was pushed in. On one wall were a couple of shelves filled with some Magna's he loved, some nick-knacks, and historical books. A few of the knick-knacks were some old echidna artifacts he had found and some smaller echidna statues. He had always found the echidna race and their history a lot of fun and interesting. On his wall were some Extreme gear posters of teams he loved. One of them being, Team Cosmic Eclipse. His window was opened allowing the fresh air to come, as it blew his curtains about. Sunny looks around and her breathing starts to quicken as she calls out for her brother.

THUNDER?! THUNDER ARE YOU IN HERE?!

Nothing. Just like with Radians and Rivers room, nothing but silence. The only thing to greet her was the soft ticking of Thunders's clock on the wall. Panicking, tears start to well up in her eyes, as she turns around and runs right out of his room, as her tears start to fall down her cheeks as she yells out.

THUNDER! RADIAN! RIVER! GUYS! WHERE ARE YOU!?

She cries out as she wipes her eyes. She calls out for them a second time, but as she turns a corner she runs into someone and falls.

SUNNY!?

Grunting out, she furiously wipes at her eyes trying to get the tears to stop as she looks and sees her father standing there.

D-DADDY!? OH, DADDY, I CAN'T FIND THEM! I CAN'T FIND THEM ANYWHERE!

Who?

THUNDER, RADIAN, AND RIVER! I CAN'T FIND THEM! I CAN'T FIND THEM, DADDY! THEY WOULD NEVER LEAVE ME BEHIND! NEVER!

Sunny wails out as her father stood there with his eyes wide open in shock and his beak gaped open as a soft gasp escaped from it. Sunny was on the floor crying out, as he went over to her and picked her up. She wraps her arms around his thick neck and nuzzles into his soft feathers crying. He gently pats her back trying to get her to calm down as tears fill his eyes as someone comes around the corner.

SUNNY!? STORM!?

The person stops as they gasp out, seeing Storm holding a wailing Sunny. Storm turns around and looks at them as tears fall down his cheek and he closes his eyes. The person slowly walks over to them as Storm shakes his head as speaks in a shaky tone.

S-She...She was...was looking for them...Jet…she...she…was...

Storm tells him in a trembling voice, as Jet places a hand on his arm and looks at him sadly.

I...I know...Storm...I know...I…

Jet lets his hand slide from his arm as he turns his head and tightly closes his eyes, as his fist balls up and starts to shake as the memories of that night come rushing back to them both.

Flashback to the night of the heist...0100 hours…

"NOOOOO! THUNDER, RIVER, RADIAN! NOOOOO!"

He remembers Sunny crying out as he, Wave, Storm, and Scarlet watch on in horror as the docks to Shining Star City go up in a blaze, with their kids there.

"R-R-River...my…my little...sapphire...no...it...it can't be? And...and R-R-Radian...too...my...my… little…mini...me…? How...who...no..."

He couldn't comprehend what had happened to his daughter or his son. All he could do was stand there in complete and utter shock as tears welled up in his eyes as they watched the horror before them. He could even barely register that Wave had fallen into his side, and instinctively held her as she fell to the floor, bringing him with her, crying. There was a ringing in his ears as it drowned everything else out as he tried to register everything. His eyes were nothing more than pinpricks as he slowly looked up at the screen as his heart beats faster. He moves his shaking head and looks over only to see Scarlet clinging to Storm. Storm looked over at Jet, and his eyes were wide with shock. They hold their gaze and as Jet looks at him, Storm asks him, not with words but his expression, if it was true. If their children were truly gone? Jet couldn't answer him, because he didn't know if it was true or not. But he had to hold on to the hope that they were alright. As he looks on, something high-pitched starts to break through the ringing of his ears, and he starts to blink rapidly and shakes his head as he tries to clear it.

"H-Huh? W-What is that?

J-Jet?"

Wave asks him, looking at him confused as she and the others heard it as well. The high pitch wailing sounds again, as he looks around. He could see that Scarlet, Wave, and Storm heard it as well. They thought it was Sunny, but it was too high-pitched. Gently pushing Wave away from her, he stands up on shaky legs and walks towards the sound.

"W-what is...is that? Who...who is there?!"

Jet was too shocked to register the sound as he slowly made his way to it. He soon comes upon the new baby's room and with a shaky hand, he takes hold of the doorknob and slowly turns it. The moment the door opens the wailing becomes louder, and he slowly walks in holding out a shaky hand, and heads right for the crib. Inside of it was his and Wave's egg. It was broken and inside part of the shell was a bright blond hatchling, with light blue eyes. Jet couldn't believe his eyes at what he was seeing. His face was one of bewilderment. But it soon turned to anger and rage. He refused to see what he was seeing right now. Why now? Why of all times did the egg have to hatch? Why did it have to hatch at all? Why now that his son and daughter, and Thunder were gone? This wasn't right. He had to... He slowly reaches for the hatchling, but not in the way one would think. He was so full of rage and anger that he wanted to hurt something, and here was this defenseless new bored hatchling as it lay crying. As he slowly reaches for it, someone yells at him.

"J-JET WHAT ARE YOU DOING!? STOP! STOP RIGHT NOW! YOU CAN'T HURT HER! SHE'S YOUR DAUGHTER!"

Jet gaps out as he stops and looks down at the helpless hatchling with shocked eyes. His talons were out and were just mere inches from his newborn daughter. As he holds his hand above her, Wave comes rushing in and pushes him to the side, causing him to trip over the rocking chair and fall to the floor. It was at this time that Scarlet and Storm came rushing in having seen him fall.

"WHAT WERE YOU THINKING JET!? HOW COULD YOU!

W-WAVE...I...I…

Jet couldn't think right now as Scarlet came in and over to him. She kneels and wraps her arms around him crying. He looks at Waved shocked, as he brings a hand up and holds her at the waist. Wave looked at him with fear and anger as she held her newborn daughter close to her.

"W-Wave...I...I'm...I'm sorry! I…"

Jet brings up his free hand that was shaking badly as he looks at it. He couldn't believe he had almost gone and hurt his newborn daughter. It wasn't her fault that Thunder, River, and Radian were gone. It wasn't her fault that she hatched now of all times. It wasn't her fault at all. Shaking his head slowly as he shoves Scarlet harshly away and scrambles to get up and runs out of the room, pushing past Storm, as Wave hurries over to the door calling after him.

"JET, WAIT! JET COME BACK! IT'S ALRIGHT! JET!"

Wave calls out to him as she follows him with their daughter in hand. Storm and Scarlet were not far behind, as Scarlet called after her.

"WAVE! WAVE HOLD ON! WAVE!"

Wave ignores her as she goes after her husband, but it was no use, Jet was already down the hallway ahead of her. She tried to hurry, but at the same time tried to be careful with having her daughter in her arms.

"JET! JET HOLD ON, PLEASE! JET, BABY, PLEASE!"

She calls out to him again, but he ignores her. He had to get out of here. He had to go look for his son and daughter. He knew they had to be playing one of their dumb pranks again. They just had to...right? He hurries down the way and turns the corner hard, slipping on the floor as he does, but he rights himself and keeps going. He heads right for the Gear Station and grabs his gear and rushes out the door. Wave and the others were hot on his tail just as he slams the door open and rushes outside and hops on his Gear and holds down the booster pad and builds up power. Just as Wave and the others come running out, he lets it go, creating a powerful blast of air behind him, forcing Scarlet to cover her face as Storm grabs ahold of Wave and the baby protecting them from the dust and dirt. As it dies down, Wave removes herself and goes running after him yelling out.

"JEEEET! JEEEET COME BACK! JEEEET, NOOOOO!"

Not wishing to leave Jet alone, she hands her daughter off to Scarlet and hurries back inside to grab her Gear when Storm grabs a hold of her arm and stops her. She looks at him with shocked eyes as he slowly and sadly shakes his head at her.

"B...But...Jet...He...He didn't mean it...he needs me Storm! I CAN'T JUST LEAVE HIM ALONE OUT THERE! I NEED TO GO TO HIM!

No, wave.

What?!"

Wave looks at him with pure horror on her face as he tightens his grip on her arm. Not enough to hurt her but just enough to force her to stay.

"Right now, your daughter needs you. I know it's hard, but she needs you more. Jet can take care of himself. He's just...just confused right now. Right now she needs you. Just let him go for now to clear his head. Right now...right now...Wave...I NEED YOU! You're my SISTER! I and Scarlet need you here! Wave...P-Please…"

Storm looks at her as tears well up in his eyes and spills over. Wave didn't know what to do right now. She was so confused. She knew he was right. Knew that her daughter needed her. But Jet needed her as well. She was so confused right now with everything that happened. The possible loss of Radian, River, and Thunder. The birth of her new daughter. Sunny out there all alone and scared, and more than likely traumatized to death at having witnessed everything. And now Jet is gone. She couldn't handle it. She just couldn't. She pulls free of Storms' grasp and holds her hands herself. She looks at the both of them for a moment as her eyes widen in shock as all of a sudden, the cold deadlyhard reality of it all finally comes crashing down on her, as if a tsunami had hit her hard. Her eyes widen and she starts to fall to the ground as she yells out…

"NOOOOOOOOOO!"

Storm manages to catch her in time before she falls and she ends up blacking out cold. Scarlet cries out as she holds Wave's daughter close, as Storm holds Wave bridal style and looks at his wife, worried. Scarlet looks at him and nods with a slight gulp.

"Take her inside and lay her down. I'll take care of the baby.

W-What about Sunny? She'll be back soon, a-a-and she'll be all alone. I need to go to her. I need to go to...to my little girl...Scarlet.

I know, baby. But first, we need to take care of Wave and the baby.

I...I understand…"

They head inside and Storm takes Wave to her room and puts her to bed, as Scarlet tends to the new hatchling. After a bit of time, Scarlet meets Storm at the entrance. She had the hatchling in her arms and was feeding it a bottle as she kissed him.

"Be careful. Right now everyone is in a very fragile state. If you see Jet, tell him to come home right away, and that Wave and his daughter need him.

I will. I promise."

Storm walks out as she follows him. He was about to hop on his Gear when Scarlet called out.

"Storm?

Huh?

I...I love you…"

She tells him in a shaky voice as tears start to fall yet again. He nods at her and goes back over and gives her another kiss.

"I love you too, Scarlet.

Go...go bring Sunny home. Bring me my baby girl….please!"

Scarlet begs him and he nods. Turning around he runs off and throws his Gear down and hops on it and he flies to go get Sunny. By the time morning had come the next day, Jet had finally come back home. He looked ragged and felt both emotionally and physically exhausted. He had been out all night trying to find Radian, River, and Thunder at their usual places, with no luck. He was still having a hard time believing the kids were gone. He pushes the door open and walks inside and drops his Gear at just the entrance. As he walks in, he runs a hand over his face and slides his goggles off, and lets them drop to the floor. He heads to the kitchen and over to the fridge to get himself a beer. He opens the door and reaches in for a bottle and closes the door. But as he heads over to go to open it, Sunny comes running over and wraps her arms around his waist, nearly knocking him over. He gasps out as he looks down at her. He brings his free hand around her and stands there as his bottom beak trembles. He sets down his beer and kneels and pulls her into a hug.

"I'm sorry Uncle Jet! I'm So sorry! THUNDER TOLD ME TO LEAVE BECAUSE SOMETHING WAS WRONG! WHEN I WENT TO LOOK FOR THEM THEY WERE CHANGED! THEY GOT THEM!"

Sunny wails out as Jet holds her close trying to shush her.

"Shh..it's alright Sunny...it's not your fault...it's not! You did the right thing, Sunny. I promise you did the right thing!"

Jet tells her as tears spill over. As he holds her close, Scarlet comes into the kitchen with his new daughter and looks at him sadly. He stands up and goes over to her and she hugs him. Sunny comes over to them hugging them both crying, as she cries out…

"Uncle Jet, Aunty Wave won't wake up!

What!?"

Jet looks at Scarlet who nods at him.

"It's true Jet. Shortly after you left last night, she just blacked out. I think the shock of everything was too much for her, and she just passed out.

W-where is she?

In your room with Storm. He's watching over her right now, but she has yet to wake up since it happened. I fear that she will end up in a coma, Jet if she doesn't wake up soon…

I...I understand...but...is this...her? My new little girl?"

Jet asks her as he sees his new daughter. Scarlet nods, smiling softly as she hands her over.

"Yes, it's her.

W-What is her name?

Sadly she hasn't gotten one yet. It's Sunny's choice, but she wanted to wait till you came back...in truth...she…"

Scarlet lets out a sigh and whispers in his ear and his eyes widen as he looks down at Sunny, who looks at him tilting her head. Jet lets out a sigh and knees down to her level and smiles softly at her.

"Sunny? What would you like to name her?

I don't want to name her anymore. I want Radian too. A-And River and Thunder too! They need to be here to help name her!

Sunny...Sunny...I don't...I don't think there…

NO! YOU'RE WRONG! THEY WILL COME BACK! I KNOW THEY WILL! THEY WOULDN'T LEAVE ME BEHIND!"

Sunny yells out, making the baby cry as she runs off crying to her room. Jet sighs as he sniffles and stands back up. Scarlet leans her head on his shoulder and brings her arms around his side in a hug, as he wraps his free arm around her waist. A tear escapes her eye, as she gently nuzzles him. He looks at her and kisses her forehead and looks down at his daughter sighing.

"She still has so much hope they're alive. But is it possible, Scarlet? Is it possible that they're still alive? After what we saw last night...I...I just don't know.

You know Sunny, Jet. She is still young and learning. But the loss of her big brother, River, and Radian, was a shock to us all. I would be lying to myself if I didn't hold onto just a sliver of hope myself. Their strong kids. Clever. Crafty. I can't help but feel that they're alright. Somehow. Someplace. But in the end, it comes down to you.

Me?"

Scarlet pulls away from him and looks at her. She looks at him and nods as she answers him.

"What does your gut say, Jet? What does it tell you? Does it tell you that they're alive? Or does it say they're gone?"

Jet looks down at his daughter and holds a finger out to her. She reaches out for it and grabs it making him smile at her as he answers Scarlet without looking up.

"Sunny is right. They would never leave her behind. Not in a million years. If she thinks they're still out there, then they're out there. We just need to have hope they will make it back to us.

Hope.

Huh?"

Jet looks up at her tilting his head slightly.

"Her name. Hope. I think it's perfect.

Hope? Hope Babylon Fire Hawk? I like it. I think it has a nice ring to it.

I like it as well. What do you think, Hope?"

Hope coos out making them both giggle. Jet and Scarlet look at one another, and he leans in kissing her cheek.

"Thanks, Scarlet.

For what?

For being there for everyone why I was gone.

You know I have your back, Jet. Like I know you would have mine if I were in your shoes. You know I love you Jet. You're my brother-in-law, so I'll always be there for you. Even when you are an annoying asshole.

HEY!

What? It's true."

She giggles, nudging him, making him chuckle.

"Scarlet?

Yeah?

Can I ask something of you?

Sure, what is it?

I know this will be a lot to ask of you, but can I count on you to help support us and take Waves' place for the time being as Hope's mother? Just until Wave wakes up? We're going to need you now more than ever.

Of course, Jet. I'd be more than happy to help out till Wave wakes up.

Thank you, Scarlet..."

Present time...1420 hours…

Storm comes out of Sunny's room and closes the door behind him softly. He rests his head on her door not letting go of the door knob as he lets out a sob and tears fall. Jet places a hand on his shoulder, making him look at him. Without a word, Jet leaves and Storm follows him. He leads them to the kitchen Storm sits down and Jet grabs them a beer. Handing him his, he opens his and drinks from the bottle. Storm does the same. For a time everything was quiet till Storm spoke.

She cried herself to sleep again.

Yeah, I kind of figured.

She hasn't been sleeping well since that night.

None of us have. I mean, I know I haven't. But it's hard when your wife is out cold and won't wake up. It's been three days now and Wave has yet to wake up. I'm worried, Storm. What if she won't ever wake up?!

D-Don't say that, boss!

Thunder lifts his head quickly looking at him scared.

D-D-Don't say that. She will wake up! I know she will! She just HAS TO! She needs to so she can see how beautiful little Hope is!

Jet looks at him, shocked a bit. But his expression hardens and he nods.

You're right. She will wake up. We just need to have hope, and little Hope is the key to it. I know it.

As if on cue, Scarlet comes in with Hope. Upon seeing her, Jet sets down his beer, and walks over and takes her, and holds her, tickling her tummy making her coo.

Yeah, you'll see little one. Your mom will wake up soon and when she sees you she will be so happy, just like us. Speaking of which, how is she?

Jet looks up as Scarlet takes his beer and drinks from it. She sets it down and shakes her head sadly.

Sadly still nothing. I got her on some Iv fluids, but she has yet to wake up. Jet, if she doesn't wake up soon, we may have to take her to the mainland and to the hospital for care.

You know we can't do that, Scarlet. If we do that they will tie the kids to us. Not to say they will take Sunny and Hope from us, and possibly put us in jail!

Don't you think I don't know that!? But what other choice do we have!? I'm not a doctor, Jet. I can't do much more than Iv fluids for her! If she doesn't wake up soon, then we NEED to think about what is best for her. Best for us all.

Forget it Scarlet! I won't give up! I refuse to lose my daughter! There has to be another way!

At raising his voice, Hope starts to fuss and Jet brings her up to his shoulder and starts patting her back gently to try and calm her as he glares at Scarlet as Storm watches the two of them.

We are not taking Wave to the Hospital. I won't risk my family and losing all of you. That is final.

Fine. I'll think of something. But taking her to the hospital is not off the table.

Fine.

Scoffing out, Scarlet looked at Storm.

Where's Sunny?

Asleep. She cried herself to sleep when she couldn't find them again.

Oh, for the love of Chaos.

Scarlet folds her arms and rubs her temples.

You can't blame her, Scarlet.

I know I can't. If this is hard on anyone. It's the hardest on her since she was there and saw everything. But what she told us what happened to them, could it be true?

You know she would never lie to us, Scarlet.

Jet tells her as he had finally calmed Hope down, and was now cradling her once again as he got a bottle ready for her.

True. She would never.

Scarlet lets out a tired sigh and collapses into a nearby chair drained all of a sudden. Jet finishes making the bottle and is now feeding Hope when he speaks.

Listen, we can't give up yet. We need to figure this out and we will. We all believe the kids are alive out there somewhere. So till then, we need to pick up the pace around here. Storm I got a job for you, and it involves what Scarlet said about Wave.

Sure boss, what is it?

I need you to go see Sonic.

Sonic?! As in KING Sonic? As in King Sonic The Hedgehog, king of all Mobius, Sonic?!

Scarlet looks at him surprised.

Yeah, the one and the same. We're old rivals, and dare I say it, friends. But he may be able to help us out if Wave doesn't wake up soon.

Right. Just leave it to me.

I wanna come!

Huh?

Everyone looks over and they see Sunny standing in the doorway.

I wanna come. Please, daddy?!

I don't know, Sunny.

Thunder rubs the back of his head unsure when Scarlet stands up and places a hand on his shoulder making him look at her. She smiles at him and nods.

Alright, Sunny, you can go baby girl. But you must do what you are told, and listen to your father, alright?

Yes, mommy.

Good, now go get packed and ready.

Sunny runs off to get ready as Storm wraps his arms around his wife's waist and pulls her into his lap kissing her.

Are you sure about it?

Yes. I think going with you will help. Even a little bit. The distraction will do you both good.

Alright.

Now before you go, Storm, here is what I want to ask him…

Seaside Bay... the morning after the heist and disappearance of River, Radian, and Thunder...0800 hours…flashback...

"Eyewitnesses say that the Robot that attacked was more than likely the work of Ivan Robotnik. The head of the Dock security staff had this to say…

We've spoken to Miss Monroe about this matter, and she told us she had no idea that the container she owned had that in there. She suspects that it could have been switched out with the original one that contained her item. When I talked with her on the phone, she sounded extremely upset at the loss of her cargo. It turns out it was to have been a statue in honor and remembrance of her late father, General Maxwell Samuel Monroe. I gave her my condolences on the matter. She has agreed to help rebuild the docks by donating an estimate of around ten point five billion, having felt it was her fault from the start. In light of this matter, once the docks have been fixed, we will be renaming the docks after her father, and they will be known as Maxwell Harbor. Thank you, and good day.

An investigation is underway as to how this happened since Miss Monroe had hired the best of the best of hired guards to watch over her statue. We managed to meet up with her at her home, and after some coaxing, we managed to get a word with her, and she had this to say…

I truly didn't know the containers had been switched, or that robot was in there. The men I hired must have had something to do with it because I hired someone I used to know in G.U.N who owns his own company. He knew my father well when they were in G.U.N and they were comrades in Arms. So when I told him what happened he said he would look into it. It didn't take him long to find out that the men hired to work for me had been ambushed and switched out. He said he felt sorry and said he would make it up to me. I told him it wasn't his fault, that it could have happened to anyone. But that statue meant everything to me. I invested a lot into it. So having that bastard Ivan take it from me, I was devastated…

We had asked her what else she knew and she said she didn't know much else. We managed to get some security footage of everything. As you watch, you will see quite a few figures walking out of the smoke and fire. But before their faces could be revealed the cameras cut out…"

The news reporter shows the video and as they had said, out walks a crowd of people who come out of the flames and smoke of the attack. All one could make out were some body shapes and glowing eyes. A gust of wind blew in front of them and was about to show who they were, but some of them held up what looked to be guns and fired, killing the cameras.

"As you can see it looked to be possibly around an estimation of around forty or so people walking out of the fires and smoke. No one knows who these people are or if they are terrorists or not, but the SSCPD is looking into it. Sargent Lance Platypus had this to say…

We do not know who these people are, or why they attacked the dock. An investigation is underway to find out. We did find some clues why, though. Three feathers that somehow managed to avoid the fires and some packs of things. After having them analyzed, we found out they belonged to three members of The New Neo Babylon Rogues, River, Radian, and Thunder. It Is unclear at the time if they had anything to do with this or not, or if they are victims of this mess. We did find blood in a few spots and are having it analyzed. Once it is analyzed we will know. Even though the Rogues are thieves, they are still kids. So we are hoping for the latter. For no life is too precious to be lost in a mess like this. That is all for now. Thank you."

A squeaking sound is heard as someone rewinds the video and pauses on the picture of the people coming out of the fires.

"Crikey, you were not joking around, papa Knuckles, when you all told us what was going on.

Indeed, Riley. So it looks like it's starting. But if this Dark Queen is already starting to form an army, then we need to step up our game. FAST.

Indeed, mate. So what's next?"

Quick Shot asks him. Knuckles turns around and addresses everyone as he folds his arms.

Now that we have help, we need to get those Gears formed. Riley and her brother Nixus have agreed to help us in that matter. So tell them everything you are looking for in a gear and they will see to it, it gets done. I hate forcing this on both of you, but how fast can you get our Gears done, Nixus?

Normally for four special customized Gears like this, it takes up to six or eight months. If not longer. But something tells me we don't have that much time, so I'll have to pull out all the stops to get them all done in four days. Riley, you'll help me, won't you?

Blimey! Are you kidding me, Nix? You know I got your back on this. You know we're the best Extreme Gear mechanics this side of the Billabong. So if we can do this right I'm sure we can pull this off. But we will need to plan things out. For one, there will be next to little sleep if we're to pull this off. So we need times when we can rest.

If it helps any, Shelia, I know a thing or two about Extreme gears. So maybe I can help.

That would be wonderful, mate, and this way you can help build your own gear in the process, Quick Shot.

What about the rest of us?"

Drake asks her, as Nixus answers him.

"As for you my fine toothy friend. You and the rest write down what it is you're looking for in a Gear and I'll see to it that it gets done. Here, you can look through these books and pick out the gear type and base you would like. Or if you can draw, then use this here and give me an idea of what it is you looking for.

Seems easy enough."

Drake tells him as he takes one of the books handed to him, and hands one to Jasper and Bella. But Bella sets her book down and looks out over the shop and at a Gear that had caught her eyes the moment she walked in. Standing up, she walks over to it and places her hand on the glass letting out a soft longing sigh. Nixus smiles and stands up walking over to the Gear, he unlocks it from the display case and presents it to her.

"Take it, Miss Vixen.

B-but I couldn't! There is no way I could afford something like this!"

Bella backs up a couple of steps, shying away. Nixus chuckles, as he holds the Gear under his arm and places a gentle hand on her arm. She looks up at his hand, then up into his amber eyes, and sees him smiling.

"Someone once told me that an Extreme Gear picks its owner, much like a Pasha picks its rider. And I've seen you slipping little glances at this Gear all last night, up till today since you've laid eyes on it."

Nixus stepped back and once again held it out to her. Bella slowly reaches for it, but stops and looks at Nixus, as if asking him if it truly was alright. He nods at her, and she gently places a hand on it and runs it over the Gear. It was Black and gold in color, and the front and back were split into four long curved points with two smaller ones in the middle. The design on the sides of it was intertwining ribbons.

"I present to you, The Assassin's Blade. A speed-type Gear. It can reach up to six thousand and five hundred and fifty miles per hour. It's a stealth-type gear so when out riding no one will know you're coming up behind them for an attack, or to pass till it is too late for them to react. It has a special ability called, Assassins Creed, which makes you go invisible for a short amount of time, and ups the speed and power to the max. For the time being it's the only one of its kind. I have this priced at eighty thousand dollars, but…

EIGHTY THOUSAND DOLLARS!?"

Bella exclaims as she pulls her hand back from it, and takes a step back.

"There is no way I can afford that!?

Thing is, I said it was a gift.

There is no way I could take it either way. We barely know one another! So why just GIVE it to me?

Hey, you're all pretty much getting free Gear as is. But if you take this that means one less Gear to worry about, and it will make my and Riley's job that much easier.

No. I'm sorry but I can't take it. It's just too expensive, even for me, and I couldn't just accept it as a gift. Even if it was to save the planet or not. It is a very beautiful Gear. But…

Bella, Take it.

Huh?"

Quick Shot walks over to them and taking out his wallet he hands Riley a card and nods at her. She takes it and hops off as he walks over to them and takes the Gear from Nixus and holds it out to her.

"Take it, Bella.

Quick Shot you didn't!?

I did. If you won't accept the Gift from them, then accept it from me. As an apology for what happened back at the Mansion the other night. Besides, I get the feeling if we had custom Gear made for you like the rest of us, it wouldn't be the same. Not to say, I got this extremely funny feeling in the very heart of my stomach that this Gear will be needed later on for the battle that is about to come. And you all should know that my gut has yet to lead us astray."

Quick Shot looks at Drake and Jasper who nod back. Jasper pushes off from the countertop he had been leaning against and lets his arms fall to the side and places a hand on his hip and gestures with the other hand.

"He's right Bella. If this Gear can do what Nixus says, then take it. Besides, Nixus is right. I've even noticed you longing for it since last night.

So what do you say, baby?"

Bella looks at everyone as they wait for her answers. She looks back at Quick Shot and takes the gear and nods gently touching his hand in the process as a determined look crosses her face...

Present day...four days after the incident...Seaside Bay Race Track...1600 hours...

"Let's do this..."

Good now, remember to lean to your right when turning, and don't hold back. Go at him with everything you got on the turn. The turns will be the best time to try and knock your opponent off their Gear and land some points in the process. If you can do that, there is a possibility they won't get back up, or at most, if you happen to time it just right when they are nearly out of air, then they will have no choice but to run to the nearest Air Station.

Bella was flying down the race track of Seaside Bay as she took the turn with ease and went after the guy in front of her. She manages to catch up to the guy and sends a roundhouse kick at him and nearly knocks him off his Gear, but he manages to stay on. Growling, she attacks again and they block her attack and try an attack of his own. He hits her hard and sends her flying off her gear. She hits the ground hard and rolls over and over again as her Gear clatters to the ground close by. For a moment she was stunned as she lay there unmoving. The guy ahead of her looks back and hits his brakes and turns around and hops off his Gear and runs to her aid. As he nears she groans as she slowly sits up holding her head.

HEY!? Hey, are you alright?!

The guy skids to a stop as he drops his Gear and helps her up.

Oh...Ow...I felt that one for sure that time.

Bella states as she wobbles a little bit. They caught her and held her till she was steady once again.

Hey, sorry about that, Bella. I didn't mean to hit you that hard.

Bella looks at the guy and smiles softly.

Hey, it's fine, James. I asked that you not go easy on me. I need to train for the upcoming preliminaries anyway.

James was a white Tigon with a beautiful brown and black mane. He was fairly big in size as he smiles at her and goes back for their Gear. Picking them up he hands hers back as he sets his down and leans on it.

Nice try, little miss vixen, I saw you back there. You hesitated.

I didn't.

You did. Listen. You said you needed a refresher course on how to ride Extreme Gear. And for the last four days, you have been holding back. I told you I can take it.

Letting out a sigh, Bella starts walking off. James follows her as she jumps over the guard railing and walks over the grass. James follows as they head back.

Penny for your thoughts?

He asks her as she looks up at him and looks back.

You're right. I have been holding back. I guess I just have a lot on my mind.

Care to elaborate?

I wish I could, but sadly I can't.

And why not?

Because it's something so big that the fewer people know about it, the better. It could end up putting people in danger. No. The whole of the planet.

That big huh?

Yeah. And right now I guess I'm kind of confused about what my part in all of this is. Sure I can fight. But at what cost? Will it be worth it in the end? Or will I lose the ones I love the most? Am I not more than some vessel for some ancient warrior princess to help guide the others? Or am I still just me despite all of that and everything else going on? I guess… I don't know. I guess I'm just scared is all. I know the boys need me. I know so many more are counting on me. But with what has happened in the last few days, I'm starting to wonder if maybe it was worth it all in the end. Up till now. A lot is riding on my shoulders right now, and it used to be I only had to worry about Quick Shot and the boys. But now? Now it feels like everything is riding all on me. And now the WGP is around the corner and I don't know if I'll be ready in time for it or not. I only ride for fun. Not to save the chaos damn fucking planet! SO WHY DO I HAVE TO BE THE ONE TO DO THIS!

Bella yells, as she throws her Gear onto the grass and falls backward with her arms and legs spread out. James lets out a sigh and puts two fingers to his ear and tells his boyfriend to cut the communication so he could talk with Bella. He complies and James sits down with her and leans back in the grass, placing his arms under his head as they look up at the sunset sky as clouds drift on by as his boyfriend heads their way.

That does sound like a load of huge baggage you got there, Bella. Now, I know we've only known one another for a few days, and I don't know if what you are saying is true or not. But something in me saying this is big. And it's real. I don't know how much help we can be, me and Jake, that is, but if I had to give out advice, it would be this.

Huh?

Bella looks over at him, and he turns his head to her.

Just do your best, and just be you. That is all anyone can ask of you. Even the whole of the planet. If there is something huge going on, and you feel like it's all on your shoulders alone, then just look around you and at your friends. You'll see they could be feeling the same way. You're not alone in this. No one ever is truly alone as they let someone in. Take me and Jake for an example. We both knew we were gay since the day we met. But we were too scared and shy to say anything about it. That was till we met Nixus during our middle school years. We all became the best of friends in no time, and one day, shortly after we started our first year of high school, I opened up to him. It wasn't easy, and I was scared shitless. But after I told him, do you know what he said?

No?

He said it was about damn fucking time I told him. Because he was about ready to beat the shit out of me just to tell him.

Bella couldn't help but laugh at that as he goes on and looks back up at the sky.

Then one day I started to have feelings for Jake, and I went to Nixus seeking out his advice about Jake. Asking him if he thinks he likes men as I do. Or if he even likes me as more than just a best friend. It was then he told me that a few days prior Jake came to him, opened up to him, and started asking the very same things I did about him, and that was when I knew I had truly found the best of friends ever. And the best boyfriend as well. We've been together for the last six years now, and we're about to get married soon.

Congratulations.

Thank you. But my point is if you are scared and you don't think your friends can help, then tell someone else. They could end up helping out in the end.

But what if I end up telling the wrong person, and they tell someone else and things end up in hell?

From the sound of it, it sounds like we're about to see hell if everything goes south. But all you can do is trust your heart and your gut. Listen to them, and they will lead you down the right path.

At that moment, Bella's stomach growls loudly at them as they look at one another and start laughing.

If I didn't know any better I'd say her stomach is leading her down the path of dinner.

Hello, babe.

James chuckles, as Jake helps him up and gives him a quick peck on the cheek. They hold out their hands to Bella and they help her up. Jake was a Liger, and much like James he was white, but with a black mane. Grabbing their Gears they start to head on back.

So how about it Bella? Dinners on me tonight. My family owns this nice little Chinese place you'll just fall in love with.

He asks her in a deep gentle tone.

I'd like that, thank you. Just let me call Quick Shot and let him know.

Alright, no worries. Heck, tell them to take five and come meet us down there. I'll buy dinner for everyone tonight.

You're in an awfully good mood tonight, baby.

James looks at Jake smiling.

Right? I've been stuck helping my family the last few weeks, it's nice just to get the hell out and get some fresh air for once. Not easy being the Heir to a family like mine, and with the kind of place we own. Not to say I have some news I wish to share with you all. I know we haven't been friends long, but I feel it to be right.

News?

Yes.

What sort of news?

You'll find out when you meet her tonight, honey.

Her? Jake...are…

Don't worry it isn't anything like that, I promise, heh. Let's just say it's the next step in our lives together. Something you've been wanting for a long time, now come on, let's go.

Curious about what was going on, they head out and gather their things and head to dinner. Along the way, Bella calls Quick Shot and lets him know that Dinner was one Jack tonight and that everyone was invited. In under two hours, everyone was at the "LITTLE" Chinese place that Jake knew of and they found out it was Family owned. Jake leads everyone to the special VIP section and within moments everyone was enjoying themselves, as Jake revealed the surprise to James and their new addition to the family. As they talk and banter with one another, Bella gets up and heads outside to the garden to get some fresh air. She goes for a little walk and stops on a little bridge and looks into the water of the Koi pond and watches the Koi swim around. She was so lost in thought she didn't hear someone come up to her and lean against the side. For a long time, they were quiet just listening to the sounds of the night in the restaurant's garden.

Something troubles you deeply little Pofu. Would you like to tell old Nainai about it?

A gentle soft voice asks her, as Bella looks over and sees Jake's grandmother next to her. Smiling, she looks back to watch the Koi as his grandmother tosses some dried bread to the Koi.

I just have a lot on my mind and needed some fresh air.

Hmm...

Jake's grandmother nods and lets her take her time to answer her. After a moment Bella does.

Nainai?

Yes, Little Pofu?

What would you do if you had so much riding on your shoulders, and you worried that if you end up doing something wrong it could end up hurting those around you, or the very planet itself?

Hmm. Very big question for such a little Pofu. Very much troubling you, Nainai can tell. But if Nainai had such a burden I would share it with those around, Nainai. For they could help you.

Heh, James said the same thing. Saying that if I couldn't tell my friends but to tell someone else. But the thing is if I tell the wrong person it could end badly for so many.

James is very bright. Very clever, like little Pofu. Nainai loves him a lot. But little Pofu is right as well. All Nainai can say is to follow your heart and it will guide you to what you know is right.

Bella giggles, nodding. But it soon fades as her ears fall back.

James said that too. But it still doesn't make it an easy choice.

Nainai could tell something more was bothering her and she started to walk off.

Come little Pofu. Follow old Nainai. I wish to show you something.

Looking up, Bella follows her and after a little while she leads them to a part of the restaurant that was their home. Jake had told everyone that his family had originally come from Chun-Nan and how the place his family owned was a Bathhouse, Spa, Hotel, Restaurant and their home, all combined into one big place. He told them it all started back when Nainai's ninth great-grandfather was alive back in Chun-Nan, and it was nothing more than a bathhouse at first, and when it was time for Nainai's fifth great-grandfather's time they decided it was time to move out here and before too long it became as it was with him next in line to own it as the tenth generation. Nainai leads her further into their home and soon she stops and slides open a set of doors and walks in. Bella stands there before Nainai turns around and beckons inside. Doing so, she takes off her shoes and walks in as Nainai takes something off a shelf and turns around smiling at her. Nainai sits down inviting Bella to do the same.

Nainai's ancestor was a great and powerful warrior. The strongest of the strong. But he was also a very good teacher of martial arts as well. He taught many his ways. The way of the Tigon Fist. He taught self-defense, so they could protect those they love. He thought about how to fight when it was needed. He taught when to run and hide so you could better yourself for the next battle and LIVE. All this happened during the Han dynasty. He was just a couple of years younger than you are now, little Pofu. My ancestor was also master of weaponry as well. And these were his. Made from the strongest known substance known to man, or Mobian kind.

Nainai pushes the box over as she nods to Bella who opens it. Upon seeing the weapon she gaps out and looks at Nainai shocked. Nainai smiles and nods.

You see, my ancestor used to travel all around Chun-Nan, teaching his ways to those he deemed worthy. On his way back to his village one day a rock fell from the night skies close to where he was resting before he continued on home. Curious about it, he went to go see it, and found a large crater and in it the very rock that fell from the skies above. Believing this to be a sign from the gods, he started to slowly chip away at it with the tools he had on him. It took him many days and it was slow going till someone, a friend, and blacksmith, came along to help him. Together they managed to break the sky rock apart. Once the rock was broken they took it to the local village where his friend the blacksmith lived and he worked with the metal they found and they created what my ancestors called The Black Star Tonfas.

Nainai!? Th-There beautiful!

Bella picks one of the Tonfas up and looks over the design on the sheath. It had the image of a dragon on it. Its emerald eyes sparkled in the light as the pearl in its claw shined brightly. Smiling, she draws it. The black and red blade glistened in the light as she looked over it. She gently runs a finger over and hisses out as she draws her finger back and sees blood welling up. Nainai chuckles and hands her her handkerchief, and smiles. Bella takes it and wraps her finger and takes the other one out and stands up and starts performing the basic steps she learned as a child.

These blades have been in Nainai's family for many many generations. As a reminder of where she came from. Though they are hundreds of years old, the blades have never dulled. They are still as sharp as ever.

Bella's movements become stronger as she realizes how they felt to her.

They're so light compared to others I've used. So well-balanced. With other Tonfas I've used, only a few I've had, felt decent enough to use. But these? They feel different. As if they were meant for me.

Bella looks at her confused.

And they should. The rock that came down from the skies so many years ago was a chunk of a black comet that flew over Chun-Nan long ago. No one knew this till hundreds of years later when the Black Arms visited us yet again. The blades are strong and have never been broken once. They were meant to be given to Jake but something deep within Nainai's heart tells her they are meant for you.

What?! But Nainai, I couldn't take something that has been in your family for so long and meant for Jake. It would be rude of me.

Nainai chuckles as she stands up and takes hold of the box the Tonfas were in and walks over to Bella.

Little Pofu, did you not just say it felt as if they were meant for you?

W-Well yes...but…

Then take them. As a gift. They were indeed meant for Jake, but Nainai feels they will be of more use to you than him, and Nainai is sure he would not mind. He has taken quite a liking to you, little Pofu.

If you are sure?

Bella asks her with a soft sigh.

What is wrong little Pofu? Do you not like them after all?

NO! No, it's not that...it's just…

Bella lets out another sigh, sheaths the Tonfas, and swaps them with her old ones.

I love them. Truly I do. But it still does not help with the matter at hand. I just don't know what I should do. So much has happened to me, to all of us, in the last few days, that I don't know what to do.

Hmm...Maybe little Pofu needs time to herself. Time to think things over?

Time is the one thing I don't have right now.

Then make it. You can not help anyone with a clouded mind. If you have a clouded mind then you will put others in danger. Nainai finds that meditation helps. Come.

Nainai leads her out and to another part of her family's home and soon they reach a waterfall in a small little meadow at the back of her home. In the middle of the pond was a round flat rock, and the pond looked as if it was glowing. Around them, fireflies flew about, as crickets chirped.

This is Nainai's favorite spot to meditate. Go to the rock and sit. Relax and let your heart guide you. In time you will know what to do. Let the sound of the falls soothe you along with the song of the night.

Letting out a sigh, Bella does as she is told and heads to the rock. She jumps over to it and takes off her Tonfas and takes on the lotus position. She takes a deep breath and closes her eyes. Nodding Nainai leaves her alone and turns to leave. She stops and looks back at Bella and looks up at the rising moon and says a silent prayer.

If you can hear me, then please watch out for Little Pofu. She needs your guidance right now, ancestors. I sense a lot of mixed feelings within her. And with the battle to come, she cannot have a clouded mind. So, please. Watch over her and guide her well.

With a nod, Nainai leaves Bella alone and goes back to the others. On her way back she ran into Quick Shot who looked lost.

If you're looking for little Pofu she is meditating right now.

Meditating?

Aye. Little Pofu is very confused right now. Much turmoil within her. She feels that there is much riding on her shoulders when in truth she has a much bigger part to play in the battle that is to come.

Quick Shot looks at her a bit surprised, but nods.

You know?

Aye. Nainai knows. Some know the truth. The real truth, Lang Xing. There are still some who know what truly happened. But only a small portion still do. Little Pofu has a bigger part to play than any of you know, but it must be up to her to decide whether or not to follow her path or follow you.

Quick Shot lets out a sigh looking down the way Nainai had come. She could see he was worried about Bella and nodded.

Go to her, but be vigilant, Lang Xing for danger is around every corner. There is no telling if or how much the Dark Queens' forces have risen, or if they could be here.

I understand, Nainai.

Nodding, she walks off as Quick Shot heads the way she came and soon she finds Bella. Looking around, he sees a place he could keep watch and heads over to it. He jumps into a tree and keeps going up till he reaches a spot that overlooks the whole meadow. He sits down and leans against a cherry blossom tree and rests. Keeping his ears open for any signs of danger. Down below, Bella was deep into her meditation…

Within Bella's mind…

"I don't understand how this will help me. Us I guess I should say. That is if you're here Tikal?

I am, yes. But Nainai is right. I sense a lot of confusion within you. May I ask what about?

I do not know. I'm worried about everything. This is our biggest mission yet, and I'm worried we will fail and everything will be lost. I don't know what I would do if I lost Mica and the boys. They're my family. I love them. I love Mica even more. But now with the preliminaries around the corner and them needing me, I don't know if I'll be ready.

There is more, isn't there, Bella?

Yes. I've been feeling...I don't know...uneasy of late since the battle with Risa and her men. Like something is calling to me. I've felt it since you joined me, Tikal. But I've ignored it till now. But now it feels like it's pulling me and I can't ignore it anymore. I've felt it ever since I laid eyes on that Gear that Nixus gave me.

The one that Quick Shot bought for you?

Yeah, The Assassin's Blade. And now the gift from Nainai, with her ancestors Tonfas? I can't help but feel I'm being prepared for something big. But the question is what?"

Bella lets out a sigh and once again concentrates. She lets herself relax as the sounds of the waterfall and crickets and other night creatures sing their nightly melody. Five minutes pass. Ten...fifteen..forty-five minutes pass... an hour and a half and nothing. Growling annoyed, Bella opens her eyes and stands up, grabbing her tonfas. She jumps over to the grass and kicks at a pebble.

I don't believe this. Not a thing! Not a thing has come to me! What the hell am I to do!? I don't get it!?

Bella storms off kicking another rock and yelling out. As it goes flying, Bella turns around and puts her Tonfas back in their hold and walks off when someone speaks.

You know, you really should watch where you kick rocks, little Pofu. You could end up hurting someone.

Huh?!

Bella looks around and before her stood a black Liger with neon blue markings and a soft neon blue glow around him.

I...I-I'm sorry I didn't know you were there.

Just be glad I have such fast reflexes for my old age, young Bella Vixen.

What?! How...How do you know who I am?

Because of those.

Huh?

Bella looks to where he was pointing and takes the Tonfas from their hold and looks at them and quickly puts two and two together.

Y-You're him...Nainai's ancestor!

I am, yes. My name is Zhou Phong. I was the first owner of the Black Star Tonfas.

Wait if you are here then…

It was then Bella took a look at her surroundings and gasped out. The whole meadow looked different than it was. It had a dreamy haze to it, and a soft gentle glow about it.

It... it worked. But how?

As Nainai said, meditation helps. And right now you are troubled or you would not be here. I am here to guide you as requested by Nainai herself.

I mean no disrespect, but how will you help me when you are only a spirit?

For one I can show you things. Look over there…

Bella walks over to a cliff edge and looks over to where he was pointing.

Do you see that mass of darkness over to the north?

Yes, I do. What is it?

The Dark Queens army.

Zhou Phong waves his hand and he pulls them closer to the Dark Queen's Army. Below them, it wasn't just her Army, but the land below them was in flames and monsters roamed freely attacking innocent people. Some scream, children cry for their families, and some succumb to the darkness before them, increasing her army.

What in Mobius?! What is all of this Zhou Phong?!

A possible future of what is to come.

WHAT!?

Bella looks down below them when something catches her ear. Looking up she sees an Island in the sky and from it a gigantic bird that looks to be made of metal and flames.

What in Mobius is that?!

That would be the Black Arms Phoenix. A creature once belonging to the Dark Queen.

What?! Wait? Is that...No...THAT'S ANGEL ISLAND! WHAT IS IT DOING COMING FROM ANGEL ISLAND?!

A time will come when the Dark Phoenix will rise once again, and if it manages to rise it will go after the Master Emerald and kill it.

WHAT!? KILL IT!? What do you mean KILL it?

It is as I said. It will kill it. The Master Emerald is part of the life force of Mobius, and the Master of the Chaos Force. If the Dark Phoenix awakens it will attack the Master Emerald with its Black Flames and it will slowly kill it. Draining it of all life, which in turn will slowly kill Mobius. Rendering it uninhabitable. Overlanders, Mobians, the flora and fauna will not be able to live here anymore. The air will become toxic, and the waters will turn into rivers of poison. No one will be able to live here again, and it will just slowly die out.

WHAT!? THERE HAS TO BE SOMETHING TO STOP THIS!

There is, but I fear she may end up getting to her goal too late. The Dark Queen will find out about the Ancient Chaos Drives soon. The only thing that can Protect the home of the Angels. There are five altogether. But the fifth one is hidden. And without that fourth Key to open the box it lays in, all will be lost. The spirit that guided her said she had to do this on her own, and could only take one friend with her. But she will end up losing him along the way. So it is up to you to guide her.

ME!?

Yes.

Zhou Phong waves his arm again and everything shifts once again. This time it showed what looked to be around eight shadowy figures and a massive army to her right. But to her left, it showed seven golden figures and a small army of their own. Bella looked between the two armies and could tell the golden side was heavily outnumbered. By at least two thousand to possibly only one thousand.

Oh, CHAOS, no! They will be killed with those numbers! The dark side outnumbers the golden side to at least three thousand in total to at least one thousand!

But there is hope. Look.

Bella looks to where he was pointing and she gasps out seeing herself standing up on a cliff edge.

Th-That's me!

Yes, but look behind you.

Huh?

Bella watches on as around hundreds...no...THOUSANDS of golden lights show up behind her. From what she could estimate at least two thousand of them were at the ready.

I don't understand.

You must convince Felidae to join in the fight to come. The girl cannot do it alone. You must prove to them what is about to happen.

How?

That is for you to figure out. But that is not all.

What more is there?

You must find the gems known as the Super Emeralds. They are one of three keys to helping save everyone. The True Queen will need them to be brought back from the darkness. Look for the Crimson Fang, tell him that only he can bring her back from the dark depths of her subconscious mind. Tell him that if he does not, all of Mobius will be lost. Only their bond and love for one another can save everyone.

Who is he?

I do not know, the only thing I know is that he is a hedgehog.

Zhou Phong waves his arm and a wavy golden image of a Hedgehog with upturned quills stands before her.

How will I know it is him? There are so many hedgehogs out there. So how will I know?

Look for two others with him. They will be bears. This is all I know.

Can you at least tell me where to start looking?

Something called the Preliminaries.

Bella curses seeing how this was going to be a problem.

How am I to help this girl, AND find this Crimson Fang as well? I can't be in two places at once. For one, I don't know what this girl looks like, or who she is. The only thing I have to help me is the Felidae. And cat country is not one to be messed with. And if this Crimson fang and his followers are going to be at the preliminaries, how do I know I will make it back in time? I mean we don't know where the preliminaries are held this year. Shit…

Bella paces trying to think of what to do. Becoming annoyed, she calls on Tikal.

Tikal! Tikal I need your help, please.

Tikal shows herself and bows.

I am here, Bella. What is it you need help with?

Tikal is there some way you can help clear things up? Even just a little bit? Just something to help me out.

I may be able to, yes. Give me a moment.

Tikal closes her eyes and concentrates and after a moment she holds out her hand, and orbs of different sizes form in her hand and they float over to the figure of the hedgehog, and three more figures, two bears and what looked to be a cat, show themselves. They slowly combine with the golden figure of the hedgehog and after a moment, a bright orb glows brightly till at last a much clearer image of a tigress shows itself why the others remain the same.

This is the girl you seek, Bella.

Why didn't the others show themselves as she did?

I do not know why. But I think it could be that it is not time for them to show themselves. But I feel I've seen this hedgehog before. I am not sure where from. But I feel a very strong connection with him. But for right now the girl is the one you need to seek.

Tikal, Zhou Phong said that there are five of these Ancient Chaos drives. But you told us that the box had the Red Star rings in them.

Yes, this is true. But it seems there is more than I know. From my understanding, there is another set of boxes with these Ancient Chaos Drives in them. I know nothing about them. But this girl could be the key to them. So we must find her and help her.

Then what about the Crimson Fang?

He is just as important. But you are right about one thing. You can not be in two places at once, and there is no telling where the preliminaries will be to find him, or if you will make it back in time.

Then what do you suggest we do?

Seek the girl out first. We need her help in getting these Chaos Drives. If what Zhou Phong says is true then that should be our top priority first and foremost.

And what of the army I'm supposed to lead?

We will need them as well. And if this all has something to do with the Felidae then we need to head for Cat Country right away. Tonight. We don't have a lot of time to lose.

I agree now that I have more insight into everything. But how will I get there?

That I do not know. I am sorry Bella.

It's fine. I think it's time I called in some favors from an old friend. It will take a few days to get to Cat Country but I'll know what to do once there. I hate leaving Quick Shot and the boys behind, but the same strange feeling is pulling me once again. I feel something bad is about to happen.

I've been feeling it as well. You don't think it could be her, do you?

I don't know, it is possible, but we can't risk not being ready. Because if the Dark Queen has found out about them, then we need to act fast. And as Quick Shot is always saying, it is best to split up and cover more ground. But to do this, not only will I need help from that old friend of mind, but some others. Right. I know what I need to do now. I hate having to leave them behind like this but it needs to be done. Zhou Phong, I'm ready now.

Bella looks at the girl then at him and nods.

Back in the real world.

"Then go and hurry. But before you do, there is one last thing I can give you to help you. When you awaken from your meditation, you will sense something around you. Do not be afraid. His name is Hei Xing. He will be your guardian Wisp and help you when you need it. Call on him, and protect him and he will protect you.

I understand.

Then hurry! Time is of the essence!"

Bella nods and Tikal floats back into her and she runs off. She heads right back for the rock she was meditating on and sees her body there. Jumping back over to her body she re-enters it. After a moment her eyes snap open and she stands up as the wind picks up blowing her hair around, as she looks up at the moon for a split second, and as Zhou Phong said, she could sense someone close by. Nodding, she runs off and down the pathway calling out to him.

HEI XING! COME TO ME NOW!

With Quick Shot…

HEI XING COME TO ME NOW!

Quick Shot opens his eyes as he wakes up. He stands up, looks around, and sees Bella running off. Sensing something was up, he jumps down and follows her. He sees her grabbing her Gear that someone had left by the pathway to the Meadow and makes a run for the cliff close by. Quick Shot's eyes widen as he calls out to her.

BELLA DON'T!

But it was too late, she jumps off over the edge just as Quick Shot makes it over and looks on at the same moment that she goes flying into the sky, creating a powerful gust of wind and causing him to hold his hat and cover his face. As the wind dies down, Quick Shot watches on as several people come running after hearing them yelling.

QUICK SHOT!?

Huh?

Running to him was Drake, Jasper, Knuckles, Nixus, Riley, James, and Jake.

Quick Shot what happened?! What is going on?!

I'm not sure, Jasper, but Bella just leaped off the side of the cliff and flew off.

WHAT!?

Then it's like Nainai said then?

Huh?

Everyone looks at Jake confused. He looks at them and nods.

Come on, I have a lot to explain, and it is time you know more about how far the Order of the Crimson Fang, Quick Shot.

You know about it, Jake?!

I'm the Eastern Leader of it. Now come.

Jake leads the way to another part of his home. Everyone follows him, but Quick Shot looks back to where he saw Bella fly off.

Bella, baby, I don't know what is going on, but please, be careful out there. I know you wouldn't leave us unless you had to. So please, be careful.

With that, he turns around to catch up with the others.

Meanwhile With Bella…

The whole time Bella had seen Quick Shot looking at where she had flown off. She hovered in place unseen by him or anyone, just like Nixus said the gear would do. Hei Xing coos out to her and nuzzles her. She reaches up and pets him and nods.

Yeah, I'm alright, boy. Come on, let's get going. We have our part to play in all of this now.

Cooing out, he nods and they turn and fly off as Bella takes out her phone and calls someone. After a couple of rings someone answers her.

Khufu, here.

Hey, it's me. I'm calling in some of those favors you owe me, Jackal.

What do you need, Vixen…

It looks like, Bella has some friends in some high places, but who is this Kufu person, and can he be trusted or not?

And what of Armada, and his team? Will they manage to get the Chaos Emerald in time before Risa's new Sub-Boss Marshal and his team get to it?

And what of Zouh Phong? Did what he show Bella come true? Or will she manage to Find the Tigress in time before the Black Phoenix fully wakes up and sets Angel Island ablaze with everyone on it?

Find out in the next part of, Killing Four Birds with one stone!

(AN: So for now I think 120 pages will suffice for the start of the final part of chapter three. Be on the look out for the next part for it will be up very soon. Till then,

This is CJ signing of, and Sending you Peace, Love, and a LOT Of hugs your way! BYEEEE!)