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

15. Chapter 5 act 8 Homecoming

THE DARK ERIS SAGA

CHAPTER 5 ACT 8

HOMEWARD BOUND….

On the shores of the Scarce Jungle Island hidden in the Northern seas...Sunup 530 hours…

Bitsy and Tank where on the island shores watching one last sunrise before they had to leave. They were sitting on the warm sands enjoying the feel of it before having to walk out of their jungle home and into a six hundred and fifty-mile frozen trek across the tundra of their hidden home. Bitsy was leaning against Tank who held her close and sighs out. She snuggles more into his hold and sighs as well.

I'm going to miss this place, Tank.

Ay, same here my little Bitsy-Bo. But I do miss home a lot. We've been away for almost three years now. It makes me wonder how much has changed, and how this Black Arms Queen has taken over, and if the others are alright or not?

Tell me about it. If anything, I miss Birch a lot. I bet he's gonna be surprised at how much I have grown since I left after we took down my Aunt.

Indeed. You have grown quite a lot in the last two years. You finally got to live your dream, of becoming what you always wanted. Someone who can help everyone. But do you think we are ready? I heard the Organization is a tough one.

I don't know. All I know is that I was the one selected to become the bearer of the Emerald of Hope and Light, all because of my healing abilities. As for this "ORGANIZATION'', I know next to little about it. Only what master Kiroshi has told us. All I know is when we get there we need to head to Angel Island, and to the forbidden zone and find the leader, someone named Kayla Manchester. From there she will tell us what we need to do next.

Tank sighs out thinking. He had a leg bent and was now resting an arm on it as Bitsy was holding her knees close to her. Her ears were folded back, and her eyes closed tight, in concentration as she mulls things over. A bird flies overhead cawing out, as wild animals cry out behind them. The waves of the waters softly crash against the sandy beach as they think of what is to come for them. As they were so lost in thought, someone came up behind them. Bitsy's right ear sits up and moves towards the sound.

Bitsy? Tank? Your grandfather asked that I come to get you both. It is time to start heading out. Preparations are now done and we need to get going now. We have a long journey ahead of us before we reach the tundra docks. It is a two hundred and thirty-mile walk through the jungle till we rest and get ready for the last stretch.

Alright, we're coming.

Bitsy sighs out sadly as she looks up at the waters as it sparkles. She looks up as Tank grunts out as he stands up and stretches out. Sighing once more and looking back at the water's one last time she looks up at Tank who now had his hand out to her smiling down at her. She smiles back and takes hold of it as he helps her up. He pulls her close to him wrapping his arms around her as she places her hands on his chest.

Try not to worry Bitsy. We have this. I know it. We've been training for over two years. We've mastered everything in a short amount of time. So we have this.

It's not that Tank.

She tells him with a heavy sigh, as she closes her eyes and looks away over the waters with her ears folded back.

Then what is it?

He looks at her with a tilt of his head.

It's Birch.

What about that fluff for brains?

I...I don't know? I just get the feeling that something is very wrong. I guess now that we're leaving I can tell you. Whisper, could you give us a few more moments, please?

Yes, of course. I will meet you back home.

Nodding her thanks, Whisper takes her leave giving them a few more moments.

Tell me what?

Bitsy looks up at him and sighs out, and tells him.

For the last few nights, I've been having these dreams.

Dreams?

Yes, their dark, clouded over, and I hear a voice within them. It's my brother's. He keeps calling out to me from the dark and I go running to it, trying to find him, but when I do finally find him, it isn't him. It's like...I don't know? Like some dark form of him. a...DARKER side of him that has been lying dormant and is now awake. I didn't want it to ruin our training or anything, because I know we need to be at our best right now. But Tank. That isn't the worst of it.

She looked up at him and the look on her face worried him.

What do you mean?

When he came after me in my dream, he held me down, with my hands above my head, and he used his free hand to tear away my clothing. He leans down on top of me...and...and...Oh Tank, Birch would never do such a thing, would he?! HE'S MY BROTHER, HE'S ALWAYS DONE HIS BEST TO PROTECT ME! THERE IS NO WAY HE WOULD DO SUCH AN HORRIBLE THING TO ME…right?

Bitsy looks up at him as tears fill her eyes and spill over. Tank could see there was a storm of turmoil in her right now, and he didn't know what to say. He knew Birch would never do something like what happened in her nightmare. Sighing out, he looks away as his ears fold back. She sees this and she rests her forehead on his chest crying as she balls her hands up.

Bitsy you know I have to be honest with you. I can't lie to you like this. But in truth, whatever is going on with that stupid furball, no matter what…

He looks back down at her and gently lifts her chin so she would look at him.

I PROMISE you, I will do everything I can to save him, AND protect you from him, and anyone that wishes you harm. I made a promise to him that I would do everything in my power to keep you safe and watch over you. I love you Bitsy, you mean everything to me, and I will be fucking Chaos dammed if I let him or ANYONE hurt you. No matter what, I will do what I can to help him if what you say is true and something has happened to him. That is a Vandercroft promise.

Oh, Tank…

Bits stands up on her tiptoes and kisses him. He leans down and kisses her back. After they parted, he held her for a bit longer till she had calmed down. Once he feels she is ready, he takes hold of her hand and they walk off and back to the village. As they leave, someone steps out of the foliage and watches them walk off. He turns slightly and looks out at the waters, and the morning sun, and sighs out.

Ancestors, please hear my call. Please help us in every way you can. I get the feeling Bitsy's nightmares are more than what she has told Tank. For I to have been having similar dreams as well, and I feel danger on the rise. So please Ancestors, protect us. Protect us all.

With a heavy sigh, he looks out over the ocean a bit longer, holding his gaze over the waters. A gull cries overhead as it flies overhead, another bird, a jungle macaw, flies over and drops something next to his feet. He looks down and bends down to pick it up and looks it over. It was a shiny stone in the shape of the Ancestors insignia. A spiral with a star in the middle of it, and several others going around it. He found this curious but took it as a sign that the Ancestors heard his call for protection. Nodding out, he takes off the leather strap necklace around his neck and puts the stone on it, and puts it back on as he looks up at the water's one last time.

Thank you, Ancestors. I promise I will do my best to help as well.

He places a ball up his right fist and places it in his left palm and bows, as he hears his name being called out.

HIKIMARU LET'S GO!

COMING SIS!

He runs off to catch up with his sister, Whisper, but not without looking back one last time.

What were you doing out there?

Nothing, sis.

Are you sure?

Yeah, I am. I promise. Just saying one final goodbye to home, since it may be some time till we come back.

Hikimaru tells her as he reaches up and grabs ahold of the stone around his neck and pushes through the palm leaves leading the way. Whisper catches this and tilts her head, but doesn't think anything more of it for the time being, and follows her brother back home.

Angel Island...Forbidden Zone...2025 hours...Moonlight Dreams…

ALRIGHT, EVERYONE OUT OF HERE RIGHT NOW! I'M CLOSING UP SHOP, AND IF YOU GOT A PROBLEM WITH THAT, THEN TAKE UP WITH MY BOYS GIDIAN, LENARD, SASHA, AND RIDIAN!

Kayla yells out as she stands near the bar with her arms folded making the ones still in her bar groan out annoyed. They finish their drinks and leave, just as Master Riku leads everyone in. Kayla was surprised to see him but doesn't think anything of it. Behind him comes Micha carrying Manik under his arms as Boba, and Legen holds his legs. Shadow had Regina in his arms and was carrying her. Mallory and Lulu were holding one another up as they limped in. Behind them came Maverick whose feet clicked against the hardwood floor. He folds his wings around him like a cape and pushes his way in through the door. Kayla looks up at him narrowing her eyes at him, wondering who he was and why he was here. Lenard and the others see this and go to stop him, but Kayla holds out her arm to stop him and shakes her head at him. The last of the patrons finally leaves and Gidian goes to close the door, nodding back to the others who go around and close the windows uptight as everyone stands in the middle of the room. Gidian and the others walk back over to Kayla and stand behind her as she looks everyone down.

Where's Mica?

I sent him to get Dr. McFadden to have him come look over Lady Regina and the others to make sure she and her child….

WHAT!? REGINA IS PREGNANT?!

Kayla yells out surprised as she looks at her in Shadow's arm and runs over to her at once. She brushes a strand of hair from her face as she moans out, but settles back down.

Oh, Gigi, I'm so sorry, had I known…

Kayla sighs out and looks away ashamed at what she put her through, tears form behind her closed eyes as her ears fall back. She feels someone's hand on her shoulder. She looks up and sees it was Boba.

She knew the risk she was getting into mother, so you can't blame yourself for her choice.

She told me she knew the risk of endangering her and her child. Saying that this is what she wanted, that she knew the risks of everything going on. Stating that she HAD to do this. That she owned you everything. That this was her part in this mess that was going on. She told me that Reggie and someone named Korbin were watching over her, that she knew she would be safe.

She looks at Shadow then back down at Regina once more and smiles sniffling nodding.

You're right, Shadow. She did know of the risks of everything going on before the fight. I just wish she told me sooner, and I would have never sent her out there in the first place.

Mom, please. She is alright now. Mica is on his way back right now as we speak with Dr. McFadden, and with what Master Riku sacrificed to ensure that she and her baby live on...She WILL make it. But right now we need to get everyone patched up and put Aunty Gigi and the Prince to bed to rest, and explain to everyone what is going on. There is a lot to tell.

Yes, you're right Boba. Thanks. Come along everyone this way. Ridian could you take the prince, please.

But of course Lady Kayla.

Radian walks over to Micha and she hands him over with a nod, who in turn walks off as Sasha walks over to take Regina, but Shadow lets out a low growl at him glaring at him, warning him off.

I'LL take Gigi if you don't mind.

Sasha nods and backs off as Shadow follows Ridian to the back as Kayla looks at everyone else and sighs.

I hope you three have learned something from this?

She looks at the Hooligans with a fold of her arms and an arched eyebrow and a half-smile.

Yeah….DON'T FUCK WITH THE BLACK HEDGEHOG WHEN HE IS PISSED OFF!

Lully, Malory, and Legen say in union.

Kayla and the others laugh out at them.

Oh, what am I to do you all?

Kayla chuckles out as she looks over at Micha and her expression softens and she rests her arms at her side.

Micha...it's been so long since I last saw you…just LOOK at you.

Kayla starts to walk over to her as she holds out a hand, but she backs up and holds herself as she folds her wings around herself as if to protect her from her mother. Her ears fold as she closes her eyes as keeps backing up and over to Maverick. Kayla sees this and she stops, dropping her hand and holds her arm, and looks away with her ears folded back.

I understand. I know you have a lot of questions right now, Micha and I promise to answer every one of them. But right now, I think it's best we get everyone down below and patched up, and you can tell me who our new unexpected guest is.

She looks over at Maverick who places a hand on Micha's shoulder and steps forward and bows.

My name is Maverick. I am a Sol Emerald Guardian from the Sol Zone. I was sent here through a Time Portal Vortex, with my friends I have yet to find. I happened to run into your daughter…

Micha snaps out of it and looks up in anger as she yells out as tears fill her eyes and a bright light flashes as she shifts back to her normal form.

THIS WOMAN IS NOT MY MOTHER! SHE ABANDONED ME WHEN I WAS A LITTLE GIRL LEAVING ME WITH MY FUCKING FATHER! THIS BITCH IS DEAD TO ME!

Everyone looks on in shock as she turns around and runs out of the back of the bar as they could hear a door slam. Kayla looks stunned at what just happened.

WAIT! MICHA COME BACK!

Boba calls out as he goes running after her, just as Shadow comes back with Ridian wondering what was going on.

What happened?

I...I…

Kayla starts, but Riku steps in, placing a hand on her shoulder.

Give her time Kayla. Just give her time. I'm sure this is all a big shock for her.

Yes...you're right...Master Riku. Anyway...as you were saying...ah...Maverick was it?

Yes, that's right. As I was saying, I ran into your daughter...into Micha early this morning, with the Babylon Rogues.

The Rouges? What were they doing over Angel Island?

Shadow asks him.

Well, in short, they found me why escaping from some sort of restricted air space why testing out some new clocking thing of theirs.

I see?

But I just happened to be flying by when Micha was in trouble. Her wings were frozen from someone attacking her and taking, from what she told us, a Chaos Emerald from her.

WHAT!? SHE FOUND A CHAOS EMERALD!?

Both Kayla and Shadow say at once.

I guess so, but she lost it because of this assailant.

This isn't good. This means that the Black Arms Queen now has three to our two. We need to hurry and find the others fast.

Kayla starts as she looks at everyone, growling out.

Are right, you four lunkheads guard the front and back. Take a couple of extra men with you to watch from the roof. We are NOT taking any chances. Not now. As for the rest of you, come with me, we have a LOT of talking to do, and I'm sure you have a lot of questions.

Gidian orders the others to follow him, and Master Riku calls for four more men to head to the roof. Kayla leads them upstairs and to the very same room, she showed Boba. Mallory, Legen, and Lulu look around wondering why they were in here.

Hey mom?

Yes, Lulu?

Why are we here? What's with that glass case over there? Wasn't that where you kept your Jade Dragon pistols?

Yes, Lulu dear. The very one.

Then where are they now?

I think you know why don't you Lulu-Bell? Boba told you after all.

Mallory and Legen look at their sister and she sighs out as she hands Mallory over to Legen and stands up tall.

Yeah, he told me the very same day you told him.

Then you know what your part in all of this is?

I do mother.

Then why not explain things as we head on down? Shadow if you would please open that panel next to you and input, 55673.

Shadow nods and does as he is told, and at once the walls of the room fold in on themselves, and the room, or more accurately the floor, shakes as it slowly starts to lower downward. Legen and Mallory gasp out amazed at what was going on.

Do you remember when Boba said he needed to talk with me alone?

Yeah, we wanted to come, but he told us that he only needed to talk with you. Saying that if we tried to follow you guys he would make us regret doing so by placing slime worms in our bed.

Stated Legen.

Right. Well, do you remember all that training we've been doing?

Yeah, the stuff with Aunty Gigi.

Mallory says.

Right. But as you may or may not know, I and Boba had extra training. Different from our normal studies and more. For a time, mom has been keeping something from all of us, something she never meant to, but HAD to.

What do you mean sis?

Fifteen years ago we were born. But not like you think. Mom hid things from us to protect us all. She wanted to keep us safe from our father Fang The Sniper. A man who would always pit Mica and his identical twin sister Micha against one another every chance he got. Mom knew that if she stayed around he would end up doing the very same thing to us as he did to Mica and Micha.

Wait? That girl from the battle? The one that looked kind of like us. But more like Mica. You're saying that she is…

Our older long-lost sister Legen.

He and Mallory gasp out surprised as they look at one another why Lulu goes on.

When mom had us she told everyone she had Quadruplets. When in truth she had triplets.

Wait? How is this possible?

Mallory asks her.

You, me, and Legen are all triplets. I was born first, you and Legen came next. But Boba was born two hours beforehand, at 2300 hours, we came at 1 am in the morning.

Wait, if that is true then that would mean?

Yes Legen, Boba is our older sibling by a couple of hours. Micha and Mica would be the firstborn, then Boba, me, then Mallory, and you would be the youngest Legen.

Mom, this can't be true?

Sadly it is Legen. You are the youngest, the one thing you once were so glad you were not.

But why?

Because, as I said, she was protecting us from our father. Not just him, but OTHER things as well. Darker things. There was a reason why we took on Shadow and the Prince tonight.

What reason?

Mallory states in an annoyed tone folding her arms.

You need to know that what you are about to see, can not be told to anyone. For if what you are about to see and be told falls into the wrong hands, it would be the end of us all. I'm not talking about us in this elevator. I'm speaking about the whole of Mobius.

The whole of Mobius?!

Both Legen and Mallory look at one another shocked at what their sister was saying.

OK, Lu, we don't know what is going on, but we don't like this anymore.

Shadow sighs out slightly annoyed as he places a hand on Lulu's shoulder. She looks up at him wondering what he wanted as he speaks.

What your sister is saying is that we need you to promise us you won't say anything to anyone of what you're about to see, and before you go asking me how it is I know about all of this stuff, let's just say I ran into some old family members I thought were long dead.

Why do I get the feeling that is a really BAD thing?

Because it is...Mallory was it?

Yeah.

Right. Well Mallory, have you ever heard about the Black Arms invasion?

Yeah, I have. I still see videos of it on ChaoTube. I got to say that was some gnarly shit back then.

You'd be surprised kid. I was there when it happened.

You were?!

DUDE that is wicked AWESOME!

You may think it is, Legen, but it wasn't. It was only that start.

The start?

I think it's best you hear my story first before we go into anything more. It leads up to what is about to happen. But right now, I think where to here.

He turns around just as the elevator dings and the doors open up. Everyone steps out and Mallory and Legen gasp out in shock as they look around.

Whoa…

They state as they run over to the railing in front of them and look down.

This place is HUGE!

Legen states.

What IS this place?

Everyone who is new here. WELCOME TO THE ORGANIZATION OF THE ANCIENT ORDER OF THE CRIMSON FANG!

Kayla states out as she holds out her arms as several people run about doing things.

Mom, what is all of this?

Glad you ask. But as Shadow stated, it is best he tells you his story first before we go into details about the Order. Now come along. Shadow if you would be so kind as to tell your tale as I lead the way down to the medical wing.

But of course.

It all started over fifty years ago…

Over fifty years ago…

I was not born like most would think. But instead, I was created by Gerald Robotnik, and before you even start yammering on, yes, the very same Gerald Robotnik who is the great grandfather of one said Ivan Robotnik. Gerald was working on the Space Colony ARK as a scientist along with many others. The Space Colony ARK was one of the most high-tech advanced marvels of its time. It had everything one could need. On the ARK was his granddaughter Maria Robotnik, before I came along she was diagnosed with N.I.D.S.

N.I.D.S?

Mallory asked him.

Neuro-Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Even to this day, not much is known about it since everything on the ARK was destroyed that the Doctor was working on. The only thing I remember about it was that it attacks the nervous system like the brain, and weakens one immune system, making the one who has it more susceptible to other diseases. Over fifty years ago, Maria was diagnosed with Neuro-Immune Deficiency Syndrome and was not expected to recover from it. Back then, medical treatment for it was difficult to provide. Medical research on N.I.D.S. was conducted aboard the Space Colony ARK, but they were unable to yield a cure. New hope for this research came when G.U.N asked Professor Gerald to lead Project Shadow. At first, he refused to work on the project, believing that they were crossing the limits that man should not tamper with and that they would use his research for war.

However, Gerald realized that he could co-op the program to find a cure for his beloved granddaughter Maria. As such he eventually accepted the request and agreed to lead the project on ARK. There, all advanced research on the project was strictly confidential. The Project was code named "Project Shadow".

The project eventually produced the "Prototype of the Ultimate Lifeform", dubbed the Biolizard. At 12 am on the 27th of January, the Biolizard was brought to life, it's internal engine and the Chaos Control-inducing organ was working normally. The Biolizard demonstrated many of the desired traits as it grew, including regeneration and self-reproduction, though it required a Life Support System fueled by Chaos Drives to remain viable. While the researchers were overjoyed over the Biolizard's evolution, their joy was brief. In addition to having an unexpected and exponentially fast growth rate, the Biolizard was like a primitive animal. It also lacked the strength to walk, though it's tail and neck were strong. As such, it was kept under observation. Eventually, the Biolizard evolved to become so unruly that the researchers had trouble controlling it. Over time, the development of the ultimate Lifeform continued and shifted.

So where do you come into this Mr. Shadow, and how do you know all of this?

Mallory goes to ask him, and he looks down at her and goes on.

I found all this out shortly after I was awoken from my suspended animation. But I'll get to that in a bit. Now as I was saying… Using the DNA of Black Doom, Gerald created a new version of the prototype but using a more desirable physique for the creature.

It was then Legen's eyes widened as he looked at Shadow.

You mean YOU don't you?!

Yes, it was me. Because of the Biolizard's violent nature, doubts about Project Shadow began internally from the researchers, who began questioning the duration, significance of the research. Eventually, private information about the project leaked to G.U.N, presumably by the internal staff who had witnessed the prototype going out of control.

As shadow keeps telling his story, Kayla ushers them into the medical wing where field medics were at the ready and began looking over Mallory, Legen, and Lulu first as everyone else either sat down on an empty bed or stood as Shadow went on.

The nature of the project made the government uneasy following Gerald's contact with the Black Arms, they considered cutting the funding. In an attempt to keep Project Shadow going, Gerald offered the Gizoid, an ancient robotic superweapon he had discovered, to the government as a bribe. Unfortunately, the bribe did not work and the Gizoid went on a rampage on the ARK. Project Shadow was eventually completed after years of research when Gerald produced a more advanced version of the prototype of the Ultimate Lifeform with Black Doom's DNA, thus me. Gerald imparted me with a heart and a personality similar to that of Maria's in the hope I would not become a weapon. In addition to possessing both high intelligence and my own identity, I became close to those I was living with on the ARK, Especially Gerald's Granddaughter, Maria, who also shared a curiosity of the Earth below us. I would often ponder about what my true purpose was. On why I was created. It confused me.

Over time G.U.N and the military grew fearful of how dangerous and costly Gerald's experiments were, the military plotted to take possession of me. The top-ranking officials of G.U.N, who saw the research institution's uniqueness as hostile, arrived at the decision to set a plan to close ARK itself. To this, they formulated the "ARK Sear Destruction Operation" that took advantage of its current situation. Making up a public story that a biohazard had occurred within the ARK research institution for ostensible purposes, all of the colony's residents were to be evacuated while the research facility was sealed. The plan's true purpose, however, was to close down ARK's research facilities, destroy everyone and thing (except Gerald) related to Project Shadow, and detain Gerald as the cause of the accident.

Sometime after project Shadow was completed, the ARK was invaded by G.U.N Soldiers in a violent coup d'etat, evacuating civilians and killing researchers. During the attack, Gerald put his finishing touches on me. As G.U.N's Special Forces rushed the ARK's Laboratory, Gerald had Maria escape with me. During the chase Maria got me to the escape pods...but…

Shadow takes a deep breath and closes his eyes as the memory comes back to him. It had been well over sixty years for him, even though he had let go of the past to move on, it was still sometimes hard for him. Having to remember what happened to her. Taking another deep breath he goes on.

Maria was shot by a G.U.N soldier. Even though she was Mortally wounded, she managed to eject me to earth in the escape pod with the last of her strength. Ahead of time, Gerald had managed to make sure the escape pod would be rejected safely to earth. Despite the complications, the military's plan went along. Within a week, the residents of the ARK had all been moved back to earth, the ARK's research facilities had been frozen, and the people involved in Project Shadow, except for Gerald, were announced as victims of the accident told to the public. The plan was completed when the Biolizard was sealed away onboard the ARK after finding it in the deepest part of the space station. The ARK was then sealed off, probably to prevent the Biolizard from falling into the wrong hands.

With the operations about Project Shadow ceased on ARK, Gerald was taken to Prison Island to continue his research under Military control. The military later retrieved me and brought me to Professor Gerald to continue his work, but when he learned that Maria had been killed, he went mad with grief. While it was thought that he was still working on his research with Shadow, Gerald secretly created a program that would cause the ARK to fall to earth and destroy it as his revenge on humanity, going as far as to brainwash me to carry out his revenge when I awoke when the military began to fear how Gerald might retaliate, however, they incarcerated him on Prison Island. Knowing only the danger of Project Shadow, the military sealed the island and abandoned the professor's research. Gerald was subsequently executed why I was placed in suspended animation on Prison Island.

Fifty years later, Gerald's grandson, Ivo Robotnik, Eggman, found out about Project Shadow after he found his grandfather's diary. Reading about the top-secret project the military had but was shut down because they feared it, Eggman came to find it, and retrieve it from Prison Island to use for his world domination. This ended up setting in motion a chain of events that initiated Gerald's Doomsday program, but I soon overcame Gerald's brainwashing thanks to someone who was once special to me who reminded me of Maria's dying wish to give this planet a chance, and everyone on it to be happy.

About four years later Black Doom showed up on Mobius. Black Doom told me everything about how he ended up contributing his very own DNA to have me made. At the time I didn't know what his goals were. I was still confused and lost on everything that had happened after I and Sonic defeated The Final Hazard. When we defeated it, I fell to earth and ended up losing most of my memories, all but the one of seeing Maria getting killed. All he told me was that Professor Gerald promised him the seven Chaos Emeralds in return for his DNA. The Professor agreed to have it done. At the time I didn't know what his true agenda was, but I could somehow feel something was up. As I slowly started to gather the emeralds, I ran into Sonic and everyone else. I started to gather the emeralds for myself, in hopes that they could help me remember who I was. But as the days went on, I soon learned of Black Dooms' true goals. I found out he had been using me to gather the Chaos Emeralds to help him invade Mobius and enslave everyone on it. Ironically, Black Doom got what he wanted from me, only to have me turn against him. As I had gathered the emeralds, I remembered my past, and instead of using them to help Black Doom, I destroyed him by using the Emeralds powers and going Super Shadow, teleported the Black Comet back to space, and using the Eclipse Cannon on the ARK, I destroyed it, thus bringing his invasion to an end.

Present moment…

Shadow finishes telling his story, just as one of the medical staff finishes looking him over. He tells Kayla that they're fine, just a few scratches and bruises, but all in all, everyone would be fine. Somewhere during it all, Mica had come back with Dr. McFadden who was down the way looking over Regina and Manik.

So tell us then? What of this shit about the prophecy? I mean all this happened long before our time, or at most when me and my sister were little kids still before mom left Nick. So how does my sister fit into this mess? What do the Emeralds have to do with all of this shit, and how do we know we can trust you? I heard a lot of tales about some of the things you've done in the past. Not to say you used to work for Eggman. How can we be sure you're still not working with him after all these years?

Listen, kid…

Don't call me a kid. I'm nineteen years old. So I think that is HIGHLY kids status.

Whatever. Trust me or don't. I don't care. This was long before any of your time. I know what I have done in the past, and I made up for it by saving this planet that Maria loved so much, and I intend to keep doing it. So long as I live and breathe, I will do whatever it takes to make sure that this planet thrives for generations to come. Not to say I PROMISED, Gigi, I would make sure I bring her stupid Dodo bird of a HUSBAND back home so he can be there to see his child grow up. I will NOT go breaking a promise to her. I will not break a promise to Maria or anyone else. I will stand for what is right, and take down anyone who gets in my way, AND THAT MEANS YOU! YOU SNOT NOSE PRICK!

Shadow gets in Mica's face as he places a finger on his chest. Mica growls out baring his fangs at him as he and Shadow have a stair down. Everyone watches on, sensing the tension in the room, till Lulu gets up and takes hold of a metal tray and goes over to Mica who had yet to see her and she gets up on the bead near him and hits him across the back of his head hard, making him nearly fall over as he yells out and turns around and faces her yelling.

WHAT THE FUCKING HELL LULU-BELL!? THAT FUCKING HURT YOU LITTLE BRAT!

YOU LISTEN HERE MICA! WE NEED SHADOW'S HELP! SO DON'T YOU EVEN FUCKING START WITH HIM! HE IS PART OF THIS PROPHECY ABOUT THE BLACK ARMS QUEEN! HE MAY BE THE ONLY ONE WHO KNOWS WHAT IS GOING ON, AND IF YOU END UP FIGHTING HIM OR CHASING HIM AWAY BEFORE WE CAN EVEN ASK FOR HIS HELP, I WILL PERSONALLY KILL YOU MYSELF! I WILL NOT HAVE YOU UNDERMINING RANK WITHIN THE ORDER! NOW STAND THE FUCKING HELL DOWN AND GO COOL OFF RIGHT NOW!

WHY YOU LITTLE SHIT! HOW DARE YOU GO AND TELL ME WHAT TO DO! DID YOU FORGET I'M YOUR OLDER BROTHER?!

Lulu narrows her eyes at him and growls as she jumps off the bed and faces him. He stood at least a good three feet taller than her, but she wasn't going to back down. Not now. She stands there folding her arms, not once backing down from her brother, as Mica growls out ready to beat her up.

I'm warning you, Mica. STAND. DOWN. RIGHT. NOW! Before I call the security team and have them take you away.

You listen here you little tramp. You're not in charge at all. Mom is, Boba is just under her…

Wait? Boba is your second mom?

Legen looks at his mom who sighs out and rubs her temples as she places a folded hand on her hip shaking her head.

Yes, and no. Mica stand down please, and as of right now Lulu-Bell IS IN charge. Lulu is the oldest of the triplets as you know. Boba is older than her by a day. She bears the mark of the Scout, and therefore, she is Boba's second. But Boba is MY second as well. But for the time being, I am stepping aside and letting Boba Take over, meaning that since he is not here, your SISTER is in charge of everyone here, and that means you as well.

But mom…

Kayla holds up her hands at him and shakes her head.

I'm sorry Mica, but right now Lulu is right. We need Shadow's help in all of this mess. So please. Can you calm down? I know you're on edge since I told Bella, but you knew it was bound to happen. So if you want to take your anger out on someone, then take it out on me. Not Shadow. He did nothing wrong.

Not yet he hasn't.

He huffs out and turns on his heels and walks out of the room, and to who knows where. Both Kayla and Lulu sigh out shaking their heads, as Mallory speaks up.

So ah….about what you told us back on the elevator Lulu?

Right. As I was saying…

Back at the Scarce Jungle…1320 hours

Alright, you lot we're now nearing the edge of the jungle. We best rest up a bit and get ready. It's going to be a freezing cold journey from here on out till we reach the icy shores. There should be a few sled dog teams waiting for us to help take us part of the way. But once we get to more rockier ground, we will have to go the rest of the way on foot. So for those of you not use to the cold, and even those who are, get ready, and get dressed. We leave in forty-five minutes. Ladies to the left, guys to the right.

Henderson calls out as everyone groans out as they set everything they would need for the trip home down. Tank stretches out letting out a sigh. They had been walking for the last seven hours since six am. They were already tired from the walk through the jungle as was, and knowing they only had a forty-five minute rest was annoying, but he understood why it was. Sighing out, he looks to his left as Hikimaru tosses him another bag and nods his head to the brush to the right. Nodding he follows him. He passes Bitsy and they share a look and a smile as she follows Whisper and the other women who came with them to help escort them to the icy shores to the left.

You know, it's going to be weird going home after so long.

Bitsy calls out to Tank as they dress.

Why do you say that?

Well, think about it, Tank. We've been in a hidden civilization for over two years. With next to little contact with the outside world, and no Modern tech. Remember we had to give up our phones and such when we got here. Not to say, my brother hasn't seen me in over two years now, let alone you. We've changed from what we used to be and look like. We've become stronger than before and mastered a lot in our short time as Grandfather said.

Well, you got me there babe. I am wondering how that so-called brother of yours is doing. I have missed him quite a bit.

Tanks states as he comes out from the men's side fully ready to go. He had his winter jacket in his hand as he looked around, setting his other bag with the rest of the stuff down. Hikimaru soon follows behind him, also ready to go as well. Not too much longer Bitsy comes out and Tank lets out a low whistle at her.

Looking good there, baby.

Bitsy giggles and goes over to him kissing him. She was in a brand new bright purple winter parka jacket, with a faux trim hood and bottom. She had khaki-colored boots on, with soft tan wool insides and on the trim. She had on a pair of black thick winter gloves and a set of goggles on the top of her head. She had a pair of downy filed overalls over her clothing along with a thick warm sweater underneath it all.

So are you ready to go?

Yeah, I am. Come on, why don't we do a bit of recon just to make sure we're still alright. We can't take any risk with so much at stake.

Good call.

Tank turns around and calls over to Hikimaru.

YO, HIKIMARU COME ON! GRAB WHISPER AND LET'S GO! WE'RE GOING ON RECON JUST TO MAKE SURE EVERYTHING IS A GO!

RIGHT! WE'LL MEET YOU OUT THERE!

He calls back as Bitsy and Tank head out. On their way out take puts on his jacket and gloves and they exit the cloaking barrier, and at once they are hit by a freezing wind. Bitsy pulls down her goggles and pulls up her ski mask. Tank follows suit and looks around. Even though it was clear, the wind was harsh and unforgiving to those not prepared for it. They hear a sound behind them and see Hikimaru and Whisper coming out, they stop next to them and hand both Tank and Bitsy a pair of high-tech binoculars.

What's the call big guy?

I say we head for those snow dunes, there, and there…

Tank points out to the two snow dunes close to one another.

We're already facing south, keep a look from the north, east and west, and the skies. Try and stay down as low as possible. Bitsy, nothing on you babe, but I wish you picked something a little less eye-catching.

Hey?!

All I am saying is if you picked something a bit less noticing would have been better.

What about Whisper?

What about me?

Bitsy looks over at her and sees what she has on and gets an annoyed look on her face.

Never mind bad example. But Hikimaru…

She looks at him and again she sees she was outdone again. He was dressed in all white as well, from head to tail. Sighing out annoyed she folds her arms in a huff, making Tank chuckle out.

HEY BITSY! BITSY HOLD ON A MOMENT!

Someone calls out as they come running out of the cloaking barrier.

Maxine what is it!

Hey sorry, but your grandfather asked me to give this to you, to help you better hide why you all do a fast recon.

Maxine hands her a white fur cape and at once Bitsy puts it on.

He wanted me to say he was sorry about the mix-up. He had ordered everything ahead of time and that was all they had in your size.

Well no worries, so long as the moron here is happy.

Bitsy points a thumb over her shoulder at Tank.

HEY!

Well, it's true Mr. Picky.

Oh, whatever Bits. Now come on let's go.

Nodding they head off as Maxine heads back to the others. It takes them about five minutes to reach the dunes and they split up. Whisper and Bitsy head to the right as Tank and Hikimaru head left. As they get up on the dunes they lay down and start keeping watch for the dog sleds. About fifteen minutes in, Bitsy sighs out and puts down her binoculars, and rolls over onto her back looking up at the sky and the drifting clouds. Whisper catches this and sets her down and looks at her.

What's wrong?

I don't know. I just can't help but feel something bad is going to happen when I get home. I have been so uneasy of late it's not funny. I'm worried about what is going on at home, whether Birch is alright or not. If it wasn't for him, I don't know where I would be right now, and the thought of losing him worries me.

I'm sure he is alright. You've told me a lot about him, couldn't stop talking about him when you first came here. But if anything bad has happened, we will fix it and save him. So try not to worry so much, alright?

Yeah, you're right Whisper. Birch is a strong guy, there is no way he would let some demonic bitch take him over right?

Right. For now, we should….

Before Whisper could finish what she was saying, she was hit in the side of the head by a snowball. Bitsy yells out surprised as she sits up and turns around looking at the boys who looked like they didn't do anything as Hikimaru was looking up at the skies, and Tank was looking to the west. Growling out, she narrows her eyes and looks at Whisper who didn't look too pleased right now.

Whisper?

Yes, Bitsy?

I don't suppose you would be up for a bit of a snowball fight, would you?

Hikimaru will pay for the sneak attack.

Then shall we?

Yes. Let's.

With that settled they go and crawl back down the dune they were on and Tank catches this and taps Hikimaru's leg and he turns around and tilts his head as Tank points to where the girls had left and they watch their dune for a bit. But unknowing to them, the girls had used Whispers Ice Wisps power to help cloak them as they used Bitsy's cape and managed to sneak up behind the boys unnoticed and once they were close enough they make a bunch of snowballs and come out from their ice cloaking and started throwing snowballs at Tank and Hikimaru catching them off guard.

HEY! NO FAIR!

Tank yells out as he is hit in the face by a snowball as Hikimaru starts making snowballs and retaliates. They all giggle and laugh out as they start a snow war with one another. Girls VS. Boys. They keep this up for a time, till Whisper catches something and her right ear moves towards it and she drops the snowballs she had to get Tank and picks up her binoculars, and looks towards the sound.

Hey, quiet.

HUH?

Hikimaru had a hold of Bitsy in the air as she had a big armload of snow ready to dump on Tank when they all looked over at her?

What's going on Whisper?

She asks her.

I hear something coming this way.

What?

Bitsy looks down over her shoulder at Hikimaru who shrugs, and Bitsy still dumps the snow she had on Tank as he sets her down. Tank growls out, and the moment Hikimaru has set her down, he pushes her causing her to lose her footing and fall in the snow.

H-HEY! TANK! YOU ASS!

That's what you get for dumping snow on me.

Huffing out, she gets up as they all go over to Whisper who hands her binoculars over to Tank and he takes a look. He adjusts them and zeros in on where the sound was coming from.

What is it, Tank?

Bitsy asks him as she brushes herself off.

Not sure, but I think it could be the Dog Sled team Gramp's was telling us about. Whisper, Hikimaru run back and go let Henderson know. Bitsy be ready for anything. Put your cloak back on and hide out and watch for my signal.

Right!

Hikimaru and Whisper turn around and head back to the others why Bitsy puts her cloak back on and lays back down making sure she is well hidden. Tank jumps down from the dune he was on and slides down it as he walks out to the middle of the roadway to wait for whoever it was that was on their way. Tank brings the binoculars back up and looks through them and sees about seven teams of dogs coming his way.

With the dog sled team leader…

I SEE SOMEONE WAITING FOR US, BUT BE ON YOUR GUARD JUST IN CASE!

AYE!

The Leader was a gruff-looking Walrus, she had one of her tusks broken in half and the other was cased in cybernetics. She had a scar over her right eye that went down to her chin. She was bling in her right eye but it didn't stop her from doing her job. She throws her arm back and brings it forward as the sound of her whip cracks against the air as she urges her dogs on. They bark and yap as she yells out.

HIKE, HIKE!

The dogs pick up speed as they move even faster. It takes them about another ten minutes till she yells out Whoa and they start to slow down, and she puts the brakes on. The others follow suit and wait for their leader's command. The Walrus steps off her sled and walks over to Tank, the snow under her feet crushed as she stops three feet from him. Tank stands there with his arms folded as she looks at him up and down. She could tell he had his guard up with how he stood and felt that she and her team were being watched by at least one more somewhere close by. She looks around with her eye but gives nothing away as she softly chuckles out.

Greetings, the names Yura, I'm seeking something out here.

Tank. What is it you seek? Maybe I can help you?

Looking around one last time she narrows her eyes and takes a couple of steps closer to Tank, till she is but a half foot in front of him and speaks.

The Blood Moon will rise to victory with the Crimson Fangs downfall.

Tanks' eyes widen for a fast moment but go back to their hard demeanor as he answers back in a low growl.

The Crimson Fang will not give up till the Blood Moon falls and he claims Victory over her.

They hold their stair down a bit longer till Tank holds out his arm and Yura claps it, chuckling out and pats his shoulder.

Welcome, Sister Yura.

AYE, thank you young one. Now tell ye friend over there to come on out, and if she thinks about pelting me with that snowball, she best watch out, I'm the reigning champ within my village with all the little ones around, and I will bury her alive.

She points with her thumb at where Bitsy was hiding. Bitsy bolts upright and calls out to her.

HOW DID YOU KNOW YURA!?

Ye forget Bitsy my dear on who you're talking to. I may be blind in my right eye, but I'm not deaf. I heard ye wiggling around as you got ready to ambush me.

She looks over at her with a hand on her hip smiling at her.

Hey, not my fault. Tank put snow down my coveralls and I yet to get it out. I'm just glad everything is waterproof.

Had a bit of fun before we showed up, did ye?

Yeah, we did. Couldn't help it.

Yura chuckles out patting his shoulder smiling at him as Bitsy comes down and finally manages to get the last of the snow out of her coveralls as she greets Yura.

So, ye lot ready to go yet or what? I want to try and get to the icy shores before nightfall so long as the weather holds out. Got word that a storm is moving in and if we get caught in it, it will delay us for a good while and we didn't bring much in provisions.

Not sure, Grandfather was the one who got everything ready ahead of time.

Very good. Very good. Knowing him he came prepared just in case. But nevertheless I want to get going. ALRIGHT, MEN! LET'S GET EVERYTHING LOADED UP ONTO THOSE SLEDS NOW! WE DON'T HAVE A LOT OF TIME TO WASTE!

AYE!

Her men get off their sleds and walk over to help the ones coming out with everything else they would need. As they load everything up Henderson comes over already dressed to speak with Yura.

Yura old girl it is good to see you again. I'm so glad you came.

Thank ye Henderson. You know I would never leave you in a bind. It's not what I signed up for when I joined the Order. Now, why not fill me in on what's going on, why the others pack the sleds up.

Right. Hikimaru, Whisper come over here if you would please.

Handing off the boxes they head, Hikimaru and Whisper go over to him as Bitsy and Tank gather around as he holds out a portable Holo sphere and presses a button on it. Images pop up of Shadow and his team.

As some of you know, this is the Crimson Fang. AKA Shadow The Hedgehog. He is the one philosophized within the text we found years ago. I got word before coming here from our main base in the Forbidden Zone on Angel Island that he has already found his Emerald and has created a bond with it. He has found his two champion Knights as well. But he lacks his fourth one.

Henderson touches the screen once more and the image changes and Bitsy gaps out surprised.

Micha?!

Yes, that is right Bitsy my dear. This is Micha Manchester, she was the first to become the Crimson Fangs Knight. Following next is Prince Manik Acorn. They have formed a strong and fast bond with Shadow, and from my understanding, they have already undergone the first trial. But that was only the beginning. Our sources have told us that they expect the Blood Moon to rise next year over Guardian Hill near Metallic City.

Metallic City!?

Yes, Bitsy.

But that's on the other side of Mobius, on the mainland of Chun-Nan.

That is right my dear. From what we understand, the Blood Moon will rise during the last three days of the World Grand Prix. A festival will be held in its honor due to it showing up every few hundred years. We believe that is when the Black Arms Queen will make her move. We also got word that she has three of the seven Chaos Emeralds, now. the cyan, the white and purple one. Shadow has the red one, the order has the yellow one. meaning that the blue, and green ones are still out there.

So now it's a race to get the other two am I right?

In a way Tank, yes you are. But lucky for the Queen, we already have the other three. As you know, I stated that Shadow found his already. The main HQ in the Forbidden Zone is holding onto your Bitsy, and I have the green emerald.

Wait? MINE?!

Yes, that is right, Bitsy. I believe you to be the bearer of Light and Hope, the very thing we will need come time.

But I thought I was to Join up with the Crimson...with Shadow as his fourth Knight.

Oh no, quite the other way around. In fact, you're to be forming your own Extreme Gear team.

WHAT!? MY OWN EXTREME GEAR TEAM! WITH WHO?

Who do you think? Tank, Whisper, and Hikimaru of course!

Henderson smiles at her as she looks at her friends in shock.

But granddad. Are you sure?

I am. I mean in truth, you are to join up the Crimson Fang as ALLIES to him. But you have a much bigger role in all of this.

But what if I'm not the bearer of the Emerald of Light and Hope?

You best be my dear. Because we don't have a lot of options left. Should you not be the bearer of the emerald, we do have one other, but I feel it in my gut you are, and if you are then we need to keep you safe, by keeping your true nature hidden till it is time.

Excuse me, Yura?

Yes, what is it, James?

We have everything on the sleds and we're ready to go now.

Alright, give us a few more minutes here.

Alright, I'll tell the others.

James walks off to let the others know as everyone finishes up.

Alright, ye heard James, everything is ready to go.

Yura turns around and starts to walk off and pats Bitsy's shoulder as she gives her a soft smile as the rest leave to go pick a sled to get on.

You got this kid. You didn't come here to be the queen of the jungle for nothing now, ye hear me? You've been training for over two years now for this moment. A lot rides on not just you, but your new Team as well. But the big question is this?

Yura?

What are you gonna call your new Team, and how will they end up working together? Will one be the downfall of you all? Or will you all come together to become one and fight this darkness that is nearly here? In the end, the choice is up to you.

Bitsy looks over at her friends worried as they get ready to get on their sleds as she looks back at Yura.

But are you sure I can do this? Become a leader? I always thought Tank would become that, not me.

Let me tell you something deary. Being a leader isn't easy. It comes with it's own challenges, rewards, heartaches, and more. It comes with having to make the right choices and the hard ones. But in the end, there is one thing you need to listen to.

What's that?

Your heart child. You listen to that, and you will know what to do in the end. It will never lead you astray. Listen to it and follow where it will take you, and in the end, you will know what is right.

But what if it does?

Then do the only thing you can do.

Which is?

Listen to your other half and your gut.

Yura looks up and over at Tank smiling. Bitsy looks over and she sees Tank looking their way smiling at her and she goes and blushes a bit as she looks back at Yura.

Do you think he would make a good second?

I know he will. He's strong and powerful, and I can tell he loves you a lot. Not to say he is as smart as a whip. Why, when I spoke to him in code to let him know who I was, he knew EXACTLY what to say. It should have been Henderson out there to greet us, but he took charge and knew how to answer us back. Remember last time I was here it was just us three and James. No one else. So when we dropped you both off, you had next to nothing, yet it was Tank who knew what to do. He has raw powerful instincts within him. If you ever get lost, just ask him for help. I bet you my Leadership to my whole village that he will know what to do. So keep him close, and don't ever let him out of your sight.

You do know that Grandfather could have told him what to say right? I mean we've been walking through the jungle for half the day.

True, but did you see him with Henderson the whole time?

Bitsy thought about it for a moment, even thinking about last night. Last night they never saw her grandfather at all, ended up staying out till late at night after their final test celebrating. They had parted ways with Whisper and Hikimaru around ten last night and went to their favorite stop and ended up sleeping together there. So she knew they didn't see him then. They didn't see him again till it was time to leave, and the whole time he stayed in the back to keep watch over everyone, not once did he go near him, or even speak with him.

You're right Yura. We left after the final test to go and celebrate together. We met up with Hikimaru and Whisper, stayed together till ten. Then parted ways why I and Tank went to our favorite spot and ended up falling asleep together there. We didn't see grandfather till it was time to leave, but even then, he stayed in the back to watch it. Even now he was with us the whole time as we waited on you and the others.

So you see what I am getting at now?

Yeah, I do. Thanks, Yura.

No problem. Now come on we best get going.

Hey Yura, could I ask something of you?

I'm already one step ahead of you.

She smiles at her giving her a wink as she yells at James.

HEY JAMES! YOUR RIDING WITH ME YOU SACK OF WHALE SHIT!

IF I RIDE WITH YOU, YOU TUB OF LARD, WHO'S GONNA DRIVE MY SLED!?

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ASS WIPE?!

WAIT?! HIM!?

James points at Tank who looked confused and shocked.

Wait? But I have never driven a dog sled team before!?

Don't worry about it, it's easy. I know you got it, in fact, I'll even let you lead us all to the icy shores to meet your way home.

Tank looked at her dumbfounded as Bitsy pulled on her arm and whispered to her.

Yura, you sure that's a good idea?!

Trust me Bitsy dear. I trust him to do it. But now you need to trust him too. Remember what I said just now?

Bitsy thinks for a moment and nods after a bit. Her grandfather believed in her, so did Yura, and she was right. Becoming a leader wasn't going to be easy. But she felt this was right. If they believed in her then she needed to start leading now. With a nod, she looks up at Tank and nods at him.

Yura is right, you got this Tank. I'll ride with you. James as Yura said you'll ride with her. Grandfather, Whisper, and Hikimaru you already know who you're riding with. So load up and let's move out. We're wasting time.

Everyone looks at her and nods as they get ready. Yura helps James get on her sled and wraps him up in thick warm pelts, as the other drivers do the same. Tank helps Bitsy as one of the other drivers shows him what to do, to make sure she doesn't fall out during the trip. Once done he asks what the commands were to order the dogs, but the guy told him he wasn't allowed to say. He curses out as he looks at Bitsy.

Bitsy? Do you think I can do this?

I do Tank.

But how?

Let's just say I'm following my heart right now, and my gut and they're telling me you can do this. I believe in you Tank. But now you need to believe in yourself.

He looks at her as he finishes tying her in and making sure she was comfortable for the ride. She smiles at him and with a nod he gives her a kiss before going on the back of the sled and pulling down his goggles. He reaches down and pulls up the brake and puts them up, and taking a deep breath he yells out.

EVERYONE READY!?

AYE!

LET'S MOVE OUT! HIKE, HIKE, HIKE!

At once the dogs bark out and start pulling as everyone follows behind him, as he thinks to himself.

Alright Tank, you have this. I know I can do this. Just follow your instincts and gut and you can get everyone safely there. Bitsy believes in you and so do the others. I just need to think and watch.

WERE COMING TO THE FIRST BEND TANK!

Yura calls out to him and he sees it. Nodding he watches it to time it right and yells out.

GEE!

At once the dogs start to turn right and he sees another bend coming their way.

HAW!

Again the dogs turn, but this time to the left.

STRAIGHT AHEAD! STRAIGHT AHEAD!

The dogs even out and at once as they move forward. Tanks smile to himself as pushes with his right foot to speed up. Yura smiles at him and nods as she rides alongside him. He nods back as they go on.

GEE! STRAIGHT AHEAD!

He calls out again as he moves everyone on.

Back up on Angel Island in the Forbidden Zone...030 hours...

HEY HOLD ON! WAIT A MOMENT! MICHA!

Boba had ran after Micha when she ran out of Moonlight Dreams' back door. He was now trying to keep up with her, but she was walking pretty fast, and he was a bit sore still from the blast from the battle. Thunder sounded overhead, a sign that a storm was on its way here.

Micha come on, would you stop, please?

JUST GO AWAY!

Micha come on. Would you just stop and LOOK at me for a moment. PLEASE?!

Micha ignores him and keeps going. She ends up stopping when they come to a dead end. She could hear Boba behind her panting, and she barely glances over her shoulder as her right ear twitches. Growling out she jumps up onto some old crates and from them onto an old fire escape and up and over the wall.

Chaos Fucking Dammit Micha!

Growling out, Boba follows her and as soon as he lands on the other side he loses track of her.

Fuck. MICHA! MICHA I KNOW YOU COULDN'T HAVE GONE FAR THAT FAST! PLEASE COME OUT! MICHA!

Sighing out, he walks on, keeping his guard up. He looks around his surroundings and even up in the air but doesn't see nor hear anything but the on coming storm. As he walks on he hears something and runs towards it only to find a cat eating out of a trash can. Cursing out, he kicks an old Chaos Soda can scaring the cat who hisses at him and runs off. Thinking for a moment, he decides to go topside and see if he couldn't spot her from up there. After finding a good stop to do that, he jumps up and starts running across the rooftops calling out for her as he looks for her.

MICHA! MICHA WHERE ARE YOU!? MICHA! COME ON! IT'S NOT SAFE OUT HERE DURING THE NIGHT! MICHA!

Boba stops on the last building of where he was and pants. Sighing out he kneels down and places his left arm on his left leg to catch his breath and thinks just as the first of the rain starts up.

Come on Boba think? Where could she have gone? She's never been here. But yet there are a few places for someone to hide but where? Not to say the not-so-friendly type as well. If she's not careful, she could get hurt. But come on...THINK…

Boba closes his eyes tight trying to think. His ears fold back as he concentrates. The rain picks up as the thunder from before sounded closer than before and a bolt of lightning shoots off.

Chaos help me out here. Where could she have….

As if his prayers were answered before he could finish what he was saying, his ears shot straight up as a soft click could be heard.

Listen, you little punk. I'm warning you to back off right now. I'm in no mood for games.

Boba's eyes open and he smiles.

Wow, you really are good, just like I would expect from one of the Crimson Fangs Knights. I just didn't expect you to be this good. I mean I didn't even hear you coming from behind me with all this rain and thunder and lightning going off, and I tend to ALWAYS keep my guard up even when thinking like I was.

Micha scoffs out, and rolls her eyes at him, but keeps her gun pointed at him.

What do you want with me?

I just want to talk nothing more. To make sure that you were alright was all.

Why should I care or not about what you think? Or the fact that I'm alright? I don't even know you, you little prick! SO GIVE ME ONE GOOD REASON WHY I SHOULDN'T BLAST YOUR FUCKING HEAD IN RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW!

The rains start to come down harder than before and lightning goes off overhead. Micha keeps a hold of her gun at the back of Boba's head. Her hand starts to shake a little as she looks down at him as he speaks.

Because, if you were going to do it, you would have already.

Boba tells her in a calm tone, not once scared.

Now come on, just put it down and let's talk. I promise I'm not here to hurt you any more than you already are.

Micha closes her eyes and turns her head and thinks for a moment, knowing that somehow he was right. Tears start to fall down her face as she turns around and kicks a sizable rock across the way in anger, where it hits a wall and breaks. She walks off a bit, and holsters her gun, as she holds herself, keeping her back to him as she looks away as her ears fall back. She reaches up and takes hold of her braid and strokes it, a habit she always had when she was upset or worried about something. Boba stands up slowly, making sure that he doesn't make any sudden moments. Rain hits Micha's hat creating a waterfall all around it as Boba stands there waiting for her next move not wanting to force anything on her. Thunder sounds off overhead, along with a couple of bolts of lightning. Micha stays where she was not moving, ignoring the storm overhead. Boba steps slowly over to her as if she was a scared wounded animal. He slowly takes a step towards her holding out a hand as he softly speaks.

Micha?

How could she?

She asks him and he stops tilting his head at her as he rests his arm at his side.

How could she what?

Just think I'd welcome her back with open arms when she ABANDONED me when I was just a little girl. How stupid does she think I am? She should have fought to get me back. Did something...ANYTHING...to come find me and take me from him.

Him?

Fang, our father.

Boba understood now, even if he did beforehand, he now did more than ever. Sighing out he turns around and walks to the edge of the roof and starts to speak.

She wanted to, Micha. More than ever she wanted to.

What?

Micha turns around looking at him as he goes on.

Mica told me about it yesterday during the battle your friends had with the others... On how she wanted to go back for you, save you from him. But she couldn't do it. Not with the condition she was in.

W-what do you mean? W-what condition?

Micha turns around looking at him as lightning shoots off above them.

I'm talking about me and the others. Mom was pregnant with us. When she found out, she became scared and worried.

Mom tried her best to do everything she could, Micha.

Mica?

I'm going to tell you the very same thing I told Boba here. Word for word.

Both Micha and Boba look to their left and see Mica coming up. Thunder and lightning go off as he tosses a thumb over his shoulder to follow him. They nod and follow him to an overhang to get out of the rain, but it does little to help. It had holes in it, but it did help some.

First off, I want to say how highly impressed I am with you right now sis. Keeping your cool during a storm like this. I guess that is only one good thing dad taught you. Second, as I was saying before. I'm going to tell you word for word why mom had to leave you behind. I don't know how much you remember about our dad Micha? Or what he was like.

I r-remember him always making us fight one another a lot, making her mad all the time.

Mica nods as he goes on.

Well, do you remember when she left you behind?

Yeah, I do. How could I ever forget that? She abandons me with that monster who only saw me as a tool. A means to do his work as he got older. I hate her for it. How could she do something like that to me, Mica? How could she abandon me like that and only take you?

Micha cries out as tears fall down her face. She holds herself and turns away, not able to look at him right now.

That is where you're wrong.

Wha?

Micha looks at him surprised.

Mom didn't abandon you. She was FORCED to leave you behind.

WHAT?! What do you mean she was forced to? Dad told me she took you and left me behind because she didn't want me. That she couldn't STAND being around me, having to take care of a worthless brat like me.

That is where you are wrong Micha. Dad LIED to you for years. I don't know what your life was like with him, and in due time I want to know, but right now you need to hear what I have to say about him.

But Mica...

She starts off as he cuts her off.

As you know, our dad was an asshole. Was nice when he wanted to be, but in truth, you know as well as I do he could care less about anything or one unless there was something in it for him. Right?

Yeah?

And as you know, he only cared about money and treasure nothing more.

Right?

Well when he and Ma got together, she had hoped he would change. But he never really did, as you know?

Right?

And as you know when mom had us, things did change. All he saw was a new lineage within us both. Two new young recruits when they became old enough. So till then, he played the nice game with mom. Making it look like he cared about us. For years till we were old enough to walk he played nice, acting like he loved us and everything. But it was nothing more than a sweet little lie he put up for ma. So when we became four that is when things started. He would still play nice some of the time, by buying nice things for her, and toys for us. Till one day he got something for you, and I liked it and wanted it. So like any little kid that age, I took it, and that was when he started pitting us against one another. When you started crying about how I took your doll, he told you if you wanted it back you would have to fight me for it, and so you did. We did the whole kicking and screaming thing. We bit, we clawed, and more. We kept it up a good fifteen minutes till mom got wind and came to see what was going on. Dad, when he heard her coming, went and started scolding us for it.

I-I kind of remembers that. I was really confused on why he told me to fight you, even saying I was doing a good job too. But then scolded us both for it. I didn't get it.

I didn't either at the time. But I remember mom giving him a weird look when he told her how he just walked into the room himself finding us fighting. She believed him, but soon as she left I remember saying we were good kids.

Y-yeah I remember now. I remember how he got you something a week later and again the same thing happened.

Right. Well, he kept that up for a long time, till mom found out about it. They got into a fight as she took us to our room. Things began to change again as mom saw he was now toying with her. Every chance he got he would pit us against one another, and every time mom found out, they fought.

Micha giggles as she looks up to see he was still missing part of his right ear, and how he still had the two small holes in his left ear.

I still have the claw marks on my back from the last time we fought.

Not surprising. Anyway, one day mom found out she was having the Hooligans, and she knew things were going to change yet again. She didn't want them around Fang knowing full well that he would turn all of us against one another, and more than likely make me or you kill one of them just to show how strong we were, and you were a strong one sis. Fang saw it and knew he wanted you to be the one to follow in his footsteps. So when mom found out she was pregnant again, she knew she had to do something before that happened. So one night, on a night much like this one now. She got up in the middle of the night and came and got me from my room, and got me dressed and packed whatever I would need. She was heading down to your room to do the very same thing with you. But Fang found out about her little coupe d'etat, and he was already in your room, waiting behind the door.

As she went for you to wake you up and get you ready he closed the door behind her and pulled his gun on her holding it at point-blank. When she turned around she was scared to death. At the time, with being so young, I didn't understand anything going on, till she told me about it three years later when I asked what happened to you. She told me that Fang found out how we were leaving him, and said that if we took you with us he would hunt us down to the ends of Mobius and kill us both. That he wasn't going to let his next hire go without a fight. He didn't know at the time that she was carrying Boba and the others.

He told her she could have me, but if she touched you, he would snap her neck and kill me. She was scared for her life, mine and Boba and the others. So she took me and we ran. The whole time I cried out for you. I remember hearing you crying out for me, as I saw you running after us, but Fang took a hold of you as mom got in the hovercar with me and we drove off. The whole time I cried out for you, I kept saying we had to go back for you but she just cried herself as we left you behind.

Micha, you have got to understand. Mom didn't want to leave you behind. More than anything she tried her hardest to find you and save you from dad. She tried so many times to go back for you till one day you both were gone. She knew she had lost you for good. She knew how tricky Fang was at covering his tracks up. But she never lost hope. Never gave up. She had friends in high places and every time she got word of Fang and his whereabouts, she went after him only to be five steps behind him. They kept up the game of cat and mouse till she couldn't anymore.

Micha looks at him as she starts shaking, as tears take hold once more. She looks at Boba, then back at her brother, as if to say, it was because of him and the others.

That's right. Mom started to show, and she knew it would be too risky now to even try. So she had to end the game. She didn't want to risk our lives any more than she had to. She knew when the time was right we would find you once again. It broke her badly having to give up finding you. More than anything she wanted you in our lives, she wanted the Hooligans to have a big sister they could look up to and be proud of. But that was never meant to be. That was till I turned twelve, and I knew it was time for me to leave home. Something was calling out to me, and I knew with mom's training it was time to go. Yet I was torn in two when it came time.

M-Mica… I…

Micha didn't know what to say right now. She was broken at hearing the story of what happened. He walks over to her and looks her in the eyes. I wanted so badly to come find you, Micha, and bring you home. But I was scared to do so because I knew if Fang found them all and I wasn't around to protect them, I would be alone till I found you. But I knew I had to go to better myself. I ended up ignoring this calling within me for another year, but after I couldn't ignore it anymore. So like she did with you, I left in the dead of night without so much as a goodbye, and I started my journey on trying to find you and bring you home.

M-M-Mica you don't mean?…

Micha started as she started to cry again as he nodded at her.

You kept calling out to me Micha, I knew you needed my help. But I also knew it wasn't time. It killed me to be so close to you, yet so far apart. I finally understood how mom felt all those years ago, and now that I have you back in my life. Well? I don't plan on letting you go again.

Micha looks at her brother as she cries. She throws her arms around him and hugs him. Mica wraps his arms around her and holds her as she cries.

When I turned twelve I felt you calling to me. I-I-I wanted to go find you, but every time I tried he would stop me. Then shortly after I turned thirteen I was attacked…

I know… I know...who do you think told Birch and Tinny?

WHAT?!

Micha pushes herself slightly away from her brother and looks at him who smiles at her.

I saw you being attacked and trying to get away. No one else saw it with so little on the streets that day, and I saw them walking by and told them I needed help, that I saw someone getting attacked down the alleyway. I told them to go see if they could help you why I went to call the cops.

Mica?!

It's kind of funny really?

What do you mean?

It was also the very same day I ran into an old friend of ours as well.

Who?

Bella.

BELLA!?

Yeah. I ran into her that day and she saw everything. She asked why I didn't go help you myself so I told her everything that happened. Ever since then we've been together.

You don't mean that..you and...her are..?

Yeah, we are. She's waiting back at Moonlight Dreams to see you again. I mean, the last time you saw her was before you vanished off the grid, so I think that was what? Fourteen years ago?

So she knows everything else now?

Yeah...despite my best wishes, mom told her.

Mica sighs out annoyed.

But right now that doesn't matter, what matters is your back and we have work to do. Isn't that right Boba?

Yeah, that's right. Micha listen to me. I know you're mad at mom for what happened. But we need your help. So can you please put everything behind you for now? For the sake of the planet?

Micha looks to them both and sighs out looking away. She now knew the truth and knew what she had to do. But this thing going on with Shadow, the Black Arms Queen, and other things. She didn't know what to do.

I-I don't know? I mean… *sighs*

Boba places a hand on her arm and she looks at him. She could see it in his eyes, the yearning and pleading in them.

Please, sis?

Sighing out once more and nods and smiles at him.

Fine. I'll do it. But I have a couple of things I'll need to do once we get back.

What?

It's kind of personal. But I feel it needs to be done. But you'll see what mean with one of them. But do you think we can go now, please? I'm starting to feel unnerved by this storm.

She chuckles out shyly as a really loud clap of thunder sounds off followed by a flash of lightning making her jump and hide in Mica's arms. Even Boba jumped back into his brother, taken off guard by it, making him chuckle out as he brings his arm around into their little sibling huddle.

Alright, you two come on now. Let's go. I know a safe way back to Moonlight Dreams, but you both won't like it.

What do you mean Mica?

Boba looks up at him tilting his head.

You'll see.

He says with a smile as he leads them back down to the ground. Once down, he leads them over to a tunnel and smiles as both Micha and Boba look at him with unamused looks.

You're joking right?

Boba asks him.

NOPE.

He says with pride.

There is no way I'm going in there.

Well, it's that or brave the storm, sis. So take your pick. Besides, it will be safe down there.

Mica you know that's Conrad's turf.

Yeah, I know. So what?

So what? SO WHAT!? You do know he will kill me if he sees me? Remember what happened?

Yeah, and?

Oh sweet Chaos, help me now.

Listen Boba, you can't let someone like Conrad push you around.

Conrad?

Yeah, you know how I was yelling out at you saying it wasn't safe at night?

Yeah?

That's because you walked right into Conrad's turf, and I may or may not have pissed him off some time ago by hitting on his younger sister, and ah..wellll….

Boba scratches the back of his head as he blushes a bright red, looking away shyly.

Wait? Don't tell me you and Koko did it?!

OK...I won't Mica…he he…

Does mom know?

Eeeh….

Mica facepalms and sighs out.

No wonder he wants to kill you. Well, this is the fastest and safest way back.

So who is this Conrad fellow?

Micha asks.

I'M CONRAD AND I TOLD YOU BOBA, YOU SHOW UP AGAIN I'LL KILL YOU!

Ah, shitfuck…

Boba facepalms as a figure walks out from the tunnel and stands before them all with a fold of his arms and a deep deadly growl. He was a big fellow. He was a Mobian Wild Cat. A Jaguar to be precise. He had a scar over his left eye and his bulging biceps. He had on a black skin-tight top with matching denim jeans and black combat boots. He had a gold chain around his neck, and he had a set of gold earrings in his ears. On his tail, he had a couple of gold spiked bands on it. His deep gray-blue eyes look down at him as he goes on.

I'm going to be nice and give you five seconds to tell me what you are doing here Boba?

He tells him a deep low growl.

Yeeeah… About that Conrad...I ah….

It's my fault, not his!

What?

Micha steps in front of her brother and up to Conrad?

Who are you?

He narrows his eyes at her as he growls out.

It's a long story, but I'm Micha. The short of it is I walked onto your Turf and he tried to stop me, but I wouldn't listen. I didn't know this was your turf.

It doesn't matter, he is in a lot of shit with me and my group.

Listen I know he is, but can't you let us pass this once, please? It's not safe out here right now due to the storm and we need to get back to Moonlight Dreams.

Listen, babe, I don't care. What I do care about is that Boba here needs to make up for what he did to my sister, and that can't go unpunished by me, and he will be punished for it.

He growls out at her.

Then I'll take his punishment for what he did to her, he just told us what he did, and whatever it is I'll take it for him.

Growling out he looks at Mica.

Who is this chick, Mica? You're new girlfriend or something?

More like my long-lost sister Micha, bro.

You don't say?

I do say. So how about one freebie this time, and when we can, will come back and you can do whatever you want to him.

MICA!

Shush Boba. Please, Conrad? The storm is picking up and it's not safe to walk back home in this, and you know how bad the storms on Angel Island can be with being so much closer to the sky.

Conrad thinks for a moment as he looks back at Micha tilting his head at her.

You'd be willing to take your brother's punishment?

Yes.

No matter what it is?

Yes, whatever it is I'll take it.

He walks over to her and out into the rain as he walks around her looking her up and down speaking softly to himself, but Mica catches some of it.

See...perfect size...weight...slim built…and with what I saw from Zerik video feed...hmm… she could just do it…Alright, deal. If you take your brother's punishment, then I'll let you all pass.

And just what IS this so-called punishment you have in mind?

Mica asks as he steps closer to his sister.

Sorry but that is confidential, Mica. She already agreed to it, so she can't back out.

Don't worry Mica, whatever he has in store for me, I can handle it. So long as it gets us back to Moonlight Dreams.

Fine. Then let's go.

Conrad grunts out as he calls out to a couple of his men waiting for him. They come out and escort Mica and Boba in front of them. Micha was about to follow them when Conrad steps in front of her smiling down at her with a fold of his arms. He waits till he knows that Mica and Boba were out of earshot before talking with her.

Sorry sweet stuff, but you're coming with me.

But?

No buts. Now come on, we don't have much time, and I need to fill you in.

What do you mean fill me in?

He pulls out a flashlight and tells her to follow him down the way. After a bit, he begins filling her in.

Right so here's the deal. I need help getting a hold of something that was stolen from me. I was going to have Boba do it since he is small, light, and nimble. I have seen him in action before, and before you ask, I'm not really mad anymore about what happened with him and my sister Koko. If anything, that was on me to start with and why she sought him out. I have known for some time now that they had feelings for one another, and with her being the only family I have out here in the slums, I'm protective of her. So when we got into a fight and she sought Boba out and I later found them asleep someplace and naked I knew what happened. I know Boba is a good kid, so I know he didn't mean for what happened to happen. But it did, and it's my fault. I knew sooner or later it would happen, I just didn't think it would be so soon. I know the law states at 15 you're considered an adult, but to me, she's still a little kid. My baby sister. So if anything, I was hurt and heartbroken by what she did, and took it out on Boba, not thinking things through. Through here.

He leads her down another tunnel as she says something.

Hey, I'm sure whatever happened will be forgiven in time. Sure, brothers and sisters fight all the time, but in the end, they always forgive one another for whatever mistake they made.

I wish I knew what you mean?

What are you talking about?

After I nearly attacked Boba that day, I accidentally pushed my sister away from me, hurting her in the process. By doing that, not only did I hurt her, but hurt the bond we had with one another. She ran away from me, scared for her life. I never in all my life had I laid a hand on her. When I realized what I had done, she was gone. I...I haven't seen her since.

When did this all happen?

About two weeks ago if that.

I'm sorry.

Yeah...So am I. Anyway back on topic. The item I want you to get back for me I had planned on giving it to Kayla. As you may or may not know, we've been at odds for a time. But when my guy Zerik came back from the sands the other day with video images of that dragon and people fighting it, something told me that it was high time I started helping out. I told Zerik to post that on ChaoTube, and everywhere else. I knew sooner or later the royal family would have it taken down, and I had a gut feeling that it would lead back to you and your friends.

Wait? YOU'RE the one that had that video of us fighting Nagus posted up?!

Yeah, I was.

Just so you know, I recommend you DON'T tell Shadow. He was beyond PISSED when Manik showed him that, and he's not someone to be fucked with.

Yeah I know, I saw him fight before as well. So trust me I know. But I'll have to risk it.

So what of this item you were talking about?

Right. You see, it's a prototype Extreme Gear. It's one of a kind I've been working on. I had hoped that it would help me take down Kayla and make me the new leader of the Organization…

Wait? You know the Order?

Yeah, have for some time now. To be honest, I used to be part of it when I was younger, around the time that Boba and the others were born. I was about fifteen back then.

How old are you now if you don't mind me asking?

I just turned thirty the other day.

They rounded a bend in the tunnel and almost at once, Micha could hear voices. Getting a bad feeling she starts to pull out her gun getting ready for anything. Conrad's left ear twitches at the sound and he turns around smiling at her, shaking his head. She tilts her head, but nods and puts it back. As they got nearer she could now hear the voice more clearly.

All right everyone settles down now. The boss will be here soon. He had to deal with some unwelcome guests at the main tunnel. Anthony, how are those readings coming along?

Not so good with this blasted storm right now.

Well, keep trying, we need to know what their next move is ASAP!

SAMANTHA!

YEAH, Zeek?

How's the surveillance?

Good so far. It looks like the leader and fleabag are getting ready to leave. According to our spy.

Good. Give me an ETA when they should be in the city! Do they have the gear?!

Yeah, that freak had it packed first thing and ready to go. She managed to slip a tracker on it. It should go unnoticed.

Good!

As they enter the room, Micha covers her eyes from the bright lights till they adjust to them. After a moment, they do and she gaps out from surprise.

WHOA!? What IS this place?

Everyone stops what they're doing and looks over at the new voice for a moment. They were unsure what to do about the new guest in the room, till Conrad walks in chuckling, placing a hand on her shoulder.

Micha my love. Welcome to the Underground.

The Underground?

She looks up at him curiously.

Come on.

He nods at her and she follows him.

ALRIGHT, YOU LOT! STAND AT THE READY! I FOUND OUR NEW DELIVERY GAL!

Wait? I thought you went to go get Boba?

Yeah, well, I got her instead. I mean LOOK at her Ze. Doesn't she remind you of someone you've seen?

The one named Zeek looks at her for a moment tilting his head. Zeek was an Echidna, his fur was coal gray and his markings were black. He was a tall, yet semi-buff kind of guy. His amber eyes sparkled with an inner light of their own as he finally came to realize who Micha was.

IT'S HER!

Yeah. It's her you moron. She offered to take her little brother, Boba's place. I already told her about the prototype Gear we're after. I swear, if I ever see that fucking Zachery Ratcliffe ever again, I will kill him.

At hearing that name, Micha looks up at him taking a step back as she gaps out.

Z-Z-Zachery….RATCLIFFE!?

Conrad and the others look at her as she nearly falls over. Someone catches her and helps her sit down as she tries to put everything together.

Y-You're telling that Z-Zachery Ratcliffe...i-i-is out of jail, a-a-and…

She looks up at him confused as she stands up and shakes her head, gaining her poser once more and she stands her ground.

Tell me what I need to do. I have a score to settle with that bastard.

Conrad smiles a toothy smile and chuckles.

Take it you've had a run-in with him before?

Something like that, yeah. Let's just say he tried to harm someone I know. An old friend of mind.

I see. Then I guess it wasn't just a mere chance we met today. No. I say it was Fate.

He tells her as he chuckles out darkly.

SAMANTHA GET TIFFA ON THE COM NOW! TELL HER IT'S TIME!

RIGHT AWAY CONRAD, SIR!

THE REST OF YOU BACK TO WORK! ZEEK, ZERIK YOUR WITH ME! WHERES ALABASTER AT!

Give you one good guess boss.

Zeek tells him as he walks past him with a sad sigh, patting his shoulder and shaking his head softly.

I take it he's still not gotten over it?

No, he's at her grave now as we speak.

Conrad sighs out and nods softly.

Alright, I'll go speak with him. For now, show Micha here a place where she can rest. Poor thing looks like she's about to fall over.

Hey, whatever is going on, tell me right now what I need to do. Just because I look like shit, doesn't mean I'm ready to kill over. I'm a bounty, and treasure hunter. I know what my limits are.

Or really?

Conrad stands there with a fold of his arms looking down at her with an arched eyebrow.

When was the last time you slept? Or even had anything to eat?

Micha narrows her eyes at him and growls.

I can go up to a week without food or water. I was trained by the best, even though he was the worst father on the planet. So anything you got, I can take.

When. Was. The. Last. Time?

Sighing out annoyed she tells him.

About three days ago. HAPPY now?

ECSTATIC. Sam, get her something to eat and drink and find her a place to sleep. She needs to be at her best. After, give Tyreek and Kota a message, telling them I need to speak with Kayla right away.

Sure thing boss. I'll message them on the com-links right now and do that.

Right, for now, everyone keep at it, I need to go talk to Anthony.

With that, everyone goes back to work as Conrad heads back out to go seek his friend Anthony.

With Boba and Mica…

Hey dumb and dumber you there?

Hold up you two. I'm getting a call back from Samantha.

One of the two puts a finger to his earpiece and starts talking.

I'm here Sammy, what's going on?

Hey, Kota. Where are you and Ty right now?

We're nearly at Moonlight Dreams. I say another ten blocks and we will be there. Why what's up?

Boss wanted you to pass a message along to Lady K. He said he's finally ready to talk with her.

I see. So it's finally time?

Hey, what about our sister? Is she alright?

Shut it, kid.

Tyreek growls at Boba who growls back at him ready to take him on. Mica stands in between the two of them stopping them before they start.

Easy Boba. I'm sure Micha is just fine. But what is this about Conrad wanting to speak to our mother for?

He looks over at Kota who nods at him.

Mica is asking about the girl. How is she?

Give him your com-link a moment, would you.

Sure hold on.

He takes out his com-link and passes it to Mica who takes it and puts it in his ear.

Alright, I'm here. What's going on? Where's my sister?

I'm right here Mica, and I'm doing fine. Conrad has a job for me he needs help with.

What sort of Job?

He wants me to retrieve a prototype Extreme Gear that he made. It was stolen from him by someone I know. He goes by the name Zachery Ratcliffe. He was going to have Boba do it, but when he saw me he told me everything that's going on. He wishes to speak with mom and make amends with her. He wants to present the prototype Gear to her as a gift.

What do you make of it all, sis?

I can't help but feel he is telling the truth. Mica Zachery nearly hurt someone I know. You know Birch right?

Yeah, what about him?

If you didn't know, he has a younger sister, named Bitsy. Zachery nearly went after a few years ago and tried to take her because of their Aunt. From what Birch told me, Tank came and saved the day, but nearly lost his life because of it.

Hey, hold up a second. Is she the one that was on the news? When Birch announced that the team was joining up with The Cosmic Queen and her team? When Sasha Vandercroft was found?

Yeah, the very same ones.

SHITFUCK!

Mica's voice echoes down the way as Boba, Tyreek, and Kota look at him.

Mica?

Boba looks at him worried.

Mica, what's wrong?

Micha asks him. Growling out, he pushes past the others and they look at one another as he starts running down the tunnels. They follow him as Boba calls out.

MICA WHAT'S GOING ON!

THERE'S NO TIME! WE NEED TO GET TO MA NOW AND WARN HER!

MICA WHAT IS GOING ON!

Micha asks.

THE BEARER OF THE EMERALD OF LIGHT AND HOPE IS WHAT'S GOING ON! BIRCH'S SISTER IS THE ONE WHO IS TO BECOME THE EMERALDS BEARER!

WHAT!?

This is what Mom was to have told you. I bet you anything she has already told your friend about everything going on. Micah, tell Conrad to forget that Gear, and tell him to meet us at Moonlight Dreams NOW!

He won't do it unless he has the gear, Mica!

Listen, Samantha, right now we have bigger problems than some stupid gear!

You don't understand Mica! If that gear falls into the wrong hands, it could be really bad!

What are you talking about?

Kota yells at them to follow him down a left-hand turn as they keep running. Their feet making splashing sounds in the water falling from above and down into the tunnels.

Conrad has been working on this gear for a time now. He took everything on it with him when Kayla kicked him out of the Order for it. Everything from the schismatics, any and all other prototypes, and more. Just so they wouldn't be destroyed. He JUST perfected the new Prototype. If this gets into the wrong, it would be bad.

Like HOW bad are we talking girl?

Do you remember that Phoenix battle about a week ago?

Yeah?

Try that only with three of them going super.

Mica stops in his tracks making everyone else stop, and his eyes widen.

THE FUCKING HELL?!

He designed it to hold all seven Emeralds. Your mother deemed it too dangerous to have. Saying she wanted it, and any other prototypes destroyed. When he found out about it, he fought her, saying that they needed the Gear and that he was going to take her down and become the next leader of the Order.

FUCK!

But now that this is all happening, I get the feeling that the Order will need that Gear.

Hold on a second? Did someone just say, Monroe?

Micha asked in the background as she was looking over something she caught wind of.

SHITFUCK SHITFUCK SHITFUCK SHITFUCK!

What's going on now?!

BIRCH'S NEW GIRLFRIEND IS HER!

HER?! HER WHO MICHA!?

BELLADONNA "ERIS" MONROE! SHE'S THE BLACK ARMS QUEEN!

WHAT?!

Back at the HQ of the Order…

WHAT!? HOW CAN YOU SURE IT'S HER?!

Shadow yells at Kayla as she presents him with what they assumed. Shadow was beside himself right now, and couldn't believe what he was hearing. He looks over at the video feeds, the surveillance images, and more. From the looks of it they have been watching her for the last year or so, and all because of the prophecy.

I'm sorry, Shadow. But after watching her for a year now, up till a while ago. When you all showed up in SSC, the signs started to show. I get the feeling she means something to you? That she means something special to you?

Shadow growls out and glares at Kayla, she only nods and hums at him as if understanding.

I have a spy...or should say HAD, a spy working for us. He still is, I think? But now he has gone dark. The last thing I heard was something about his family being taken by Eggman Jr. So I have a feeling he is now working for him in order to keep his family safe.

Growling out he looks at her.

Who is this Spy?

You know him as Jax.

WHAT!?

Listen, Shadow. I know this is off track here. But I need you to rescue his family and get him back on board with the Organization right away. I sent him out to G.U.N to watch her. But now that he has gone dark, I fear the worst of things.

Growling out, he gets into Kayla's face and points a finger at her chest.

FINE! I'll save his family for you and get him back. But you're WRONG about ERIS.

Kayla nods at him and speaks.

Believe what you must, Shadow. But it is her. I'm sorry. But I promise we will get her back. But we will need your help in doing so.

YOUR…

MOM! IT'S HER! IT'S THE COSMIC QUEEN! SHE'S THE BLACK ARMS QUEEN LIKE WE'VE BEEN EXPECTING FOR THE LAST YEAR!

Mica and Boba come running into the room, with Tyreek and Kota behind them as Micah yells out to her. As they near they stop and look at Shadow and her wondering what is going on.

Ah, mom? What is going on here?

Shadow looks between them, the monitors, and back at Kayla. She only nods looking away as her ears fall back. Too ashamed at everything going on. Shadow drops his hand to his side, unable to believe what he just heard. That the girl he truly loved was the Black Arms Queen. Growling out he pushes her away and past Boba and the others storming off.

Shadow, where are you going?!

Kayla calls after him.

You said that Eggman Jr. has your spy's family right?

Yes?

Then I'll give you a good guess.

Sorry Mate, but right now, we need you here.

Mica stands in front of him blocking his way. Growling out pissed, Shadow takes a swing at him and punches him in the face and sends him flying back into council where he falls to the floor. Boba yells out as he goes running to his brother to help him up.

MICA!

He starts walking off as Mallory and the others stand in his way ready to take him on when a new voice is heard.

He's right, Shadow. If you go on a rampage now, it will only make things worse. Right now we need you at your coolest. Not your hottest, bro. I know you care for Eris, and I know you're pissed at hearing the news and everything, but if what they say is true. You go in Chaos Spears a blazing, it could be the end of everything we know, and we could lose her forever. Do you really want that Shadow? Do you really want to lose her to the darkness?

Shadow looks over to his right and sees Manik standing not too far off. He looked as if he had seen better days. He was bandaged up here and there, and some of the wrappings had signs of blood on them. Manik walks over to Shadow and places a hand on his arm. Shadow looks at him and sighs in defeat, and hangs his head, and looks away as his ears fall back.

Your right Manik. On both accounts, I do need to keep my cool. If what Kayla says is true then I need to be at my best, not my worst. I know what I need to do. But knowing that Eris is her… it's like…

Sighing out, he shakes his head and walks off.

Hey, where are you going, Shadow?

Manik asks him, as he pushes past Legen, Mallory, and Lulu.

For a walk. I need to be alone right now and think.

He tells him over his shoulder. He walks over to Mica and holds out his hand. He and Boba look up at him and he takes it as Shadow helps him up. They keep their hands held for a few moments till Shadow nods and walks off.

Do you think Mr. Shadow will be alright ma?

Mallory asks her?

Hey, don't worry about him, kid. He will be fine. I've known Shadow for a long time now, when he comes back he will be back to his old self, and things can get started. For now, is there anything to eat? I'm starving.

Kayla laughs out and walks over and pats Manik's shoulder.

Come on kid' I'll show you where the grub is. Then after, when he comes back I'll fill you all in on the rest. We have a lot of work to do, and so little time.

Back down in Shining Star City, at a small little Beatstro…1130 am…

So, how do you feel Avery?

About the same, but yet not the same.

Good. Then you know what you have to do right?

Yeah, I do. But what about my sister and Ratcliffe?

Don't worry about them, my dear. Right now we have bigger things to worry about. Like where to find the remaining two Chaos Emeralds.

Don't you mean the last three?

Oh, don't worry about the third one. I already know where it is. Right now as we speak, I bet you anything, that he has found out who I really am, and if so. Well.

Eris shrugs, smiling.

Let's just say the real game has just begun. A little soon I think. But I have a feeling this is a side effect with Reggie joining us a bit soon. But for now, we will play everything by ear, and keep playing like nothing has happened. For now, let's go. The day is still young, and I feel like a trip to the mall, so wanna come with me?

Sure, let's go. There is a new place I wanna check out anyway.

Same here. So let's pay and go.

With that, Eris pays for their lunch and they head out to Starwave Mall. A couple of people who were sitting next to them unnoticed looked up at one another and nodded. Paying for their lunch and leave as well.

Well, what do you think?

It's definitely her, no doubt about it.

Now what?

If what you've been fearing for a time now is true, babe. Then I think it's high time we get an EG Team going FAST. We need to get ready and try to get a hold of the Crimson Fang and join up with him. He is going to need all the help he can get.

Right, and I know just the two who have been DYING for some action of late. I'll give them a call right away and let them know we're to meet on Angel Island ASAP.

Right. Then let's go. We don't have a lot of time to waste.

Nodding, they walk off the other way as one of the two takes out their phone and looks up a number, and hits the call button.

Yo, this is Techno, what's up my beautiful little gemstone?

How would you and Zyrinia like to form an EG Team with me and Ryu?

Let me guess? It's time?

Yeah, and we need to get to Angel Island ASAP and meet up with the Crimson Fang.

It's about fucking time, bitch. We've been sitting here bored to DEATH...hold on a second... I think Zy is already dead... HEY ZYRINIA YOU STILL ALIVE?!

NO! I'M ABOUT AS DEAD AS THEY COME FROM BOREDOM!

WELL START COMING BACK ALIVE! IT'S TIME!

WELL FUCK! TOOK YOU SWEET FUCKING TIME SELENA, YOU CUNT!

Selena giggles out as does Ryu.

Sorry hon, but we had to make sure. But get ready and will meet you at the airport ASAP. Lunch traffic will pick up soon.

Right, see you soon girl. Bye.

With that, they hang up and she looks to Ryu. What do we tell Birch?

Nothing. We will do as we planned and go meet up with the Crimson Fang, we should arrive early tonight. I got Intel of where he is staying, so we will find someplace close by and when we know more then we make our move.

Right.

With that, they head back to their hotel to pack up and leave.

Back on the Frozen Tundra...1600 hours later…

Tank yells out whoa and the dogs start to slow down till they stop. As soon as they do, he puts the brakes down and pushes them into the snow and gets off his sled and pulls down his ski masks and puts his goggles up on his head, and walks out ahead. Everyone else stops as well as Yura taps James and he nods as she goes over to Tank.

Tank what is it?

Which way did you come from?

The northeast of course. Why?

Humming out, and narrowing his eyes, Tank looks to the left then right. Something deep inside of him was telling him something was wrong. Narrowing his eyes, he heads over to one of the sleds that was carrying their cargo and he starts untying them to find the binoculars. Finding them in the top crate, he takes them out and runs back to Yura, and looks into them down the way she had come. He couldn't see it but something was dangerously off. Growling out he runs off and over to the left and starts climbing up a tall six-foot hill and bunkers down. Looking through them once more he sees what his gut was telling him. Growling out, he stands up and jumps down and lands in the snow and runs back to the crates and puts the binoculars back, and closes it up looking for the holo map. Closing it back up, Yura comes over and looks over his shoulder.

Thanks, what's wrong?

Is there another way to the docs?

He asks her as he looks over the map.

Yeah, there is but it's too dangerous to go right now with that possible storm moving in.

Will have to risk it. Now show me.

Tank what is going on? What did you see?

There isn't time Yura! SHOW ME NOW!

Yura flinches from his yelling and nods. She points to the holo map and shows him the other route. Typing away at the holo map, he sets the new route in and grabs another holo map from the crate, and gives it to Yura. He slams the lid shut and tells the guy to tie it back up, just as Bitsy, Whisper, Hikimaru, and Henderson come over.

Tank, what is going on?

Hikimaru asks him.

Tank stops and looks at him and only says one word.

Raiders.

Everyone gaps out as Tank hurries and gets back onto his sled and Yura follows.

Raider, this far out? But how?

Not sure, but this is bad.

You sure they're Raiders Tank? They could be someone from the Ice Docks?

Their not. It's like you said Bitsy, I need to trust in myself and my gut, and that is what I am doing.

But what would Raider's be doing out here? There is nothing out here but snow and ice, and if they did run into the Scarce Jungle they would be warned off before they managed to find a way in.

What if they not here for the Jungle? What if they here for us?

Everyone looks to Whisper and Tank nods at her.

I had the very same feeling Whisper.

Then if that is the case…

Bitsy starts as Hikimaru finishes.

We can only assume they are the Queens Followers.

But HOW!? I made sure that no one could have followed us, or even find us, lad.

Yura tells them.

So does this mean that she or one of her Knights has been busy of late?

It looks like it, that, or we have a spy in our midst as we speak.

Tank softly growls out as he looks up from the group and narrows his eyes as he looks over the other sled team drives. His eyes rest on one of them as he speaks to Henderson without taking his eyes off his target.

Hey, Gramp's?

Yes, Tank, what is it?

I don't suppose you brought those special items with you when you came to get us, did you?

Why yes I did. Why?

Get them ready for us now. I need to go speak with our spy.

Tank?

Yura looks at him worried.

Stay here and be ready. Just get them ready. Because once I'm done with our little friend we will need to split up. Yura, who can use a Wisps Cannon in your group?

Why that would be James of course.

On a scale of one to ten, how much do you trust him?

With me life, laddie. I raised James from a wee babe I have. I took him in when he lost his family.

So he's your son, is he? Could have fooled us.

Tank softly chuckles out.

Right, Whisper, go over and be discreet, and give him a few of your extra Ice Wisps contenders let him know trouble is afoot.

Right.

Hikimaru, you're coming with me. Bitsy, Yura, help grandfather with that special cargo. Now come on.

Everyone sets about to do as they are told as Tank and Hikimaru walk over to the other five who were talking about wondering why they had stopped. On the way, Tank grabs a hold of some rope and hands it to Hikimaru as he hides it behind his back. They stop and one of the other drivers looks over at Tank with a smile as he goes back to talking. Tank walks over and listens in for a moment and peaks when something catches his attention.

So sorry about stopping but we have a problem.

What's going on?

Looks like her Majesty the Queen has found us.

What do you mean she's found us? Yura made sure we couldn't be followed. She picked the best of us to help out today just to make sure all of you got to the Ice Docks safely.

And I believe you...ah?

Thomas.

Right Thomas. But Whisper pointed out something that was really funny.

What do you mean?

Well…

Tank walks around everyone, like a wolf herding sheep for the slaughter, as his eyes narrow looking over everyone. Everyone looks at him a bit nervous about what he was doing till he was back in front of them he looks to Hikimaru and nods at him as he ever so slightly twitches his ear. He catches this and slowly walks over and around the men once more.

Whisper believes there could be a SPY in our mists as we speak.

WHAT!?

So tell me Thomas what you know of the Queen?

Hey if you're thinking what I think you're thinking, then think again buddy. I've been working with the Order for over five years since the prophecy was foretold years ago. My family has been part of it for as long as anyone can remember.

Tank just nods and smiles.

Oh, I know it isn't you Thomas.

What?

But it is one of you.

Everyone looks at one another, as Hikimaru finally comes up behind the one Tank had his eyes on.

I just need to know one little thing beforehand?

Tank?

Thomas looks at him confused.

I know who the new Queen is, and she has graced us with her presence. She is a sight to behold, yet I would have never imagined that Yura would be the new Queen. Don't you think she makes a fine queen?

Tank chuckles out looking him right in his eyes and he gets it right away.

Oh, she does indeed make a fine queen. Though I never would have guessed it in a million years that tub of wheal lard would be the new Black Arms Queen.

WHAT!? That stupid bitch Yura can't be the Queen! I know who she is, and it isn't that stupid tub of whale lard Yura!

Oh really James, and would you know?

It was there and there, everyone looked at James as Tank smiled a wicked smile, knowing he got his man. But before James could realize what he had just done, Hikimaru was on top of him, hitting him in the back of the head hard, and sending him flying to the icy ground where he blacked out. At once Hikimaru jumps on him and starts to tie him up, and pulls him up, and tosses him over his shoulder.

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!

Yura saw what happened and came running over to them.

PUT HIM DOWN RIGHT NOW YOU FILTHY LUGGAGE RACK, BEFORE I GUT YE LIKE A WHALE!

Easy Yura.

Tank comes to stand in front of her and holds her off.

Tank?

I hate to say it old girl, but your so-called son IS the spy.

WHAT!? H-how can that be? How did you know it was him?

Because it was how he reacted when I told Thomas here on what a fine Queen you would make, and he agreed. That was when James slipped up he knew who the real queen was.

WHAT!

It's true Yura, I and the others heard him say it. I'm sorry.

But...HOW!

Not sure. But right now we can't worry about that.

Tank is right. We have two problems we need to deal with.

Everyone looks to Bitsy as she comes running over to them.

Bitsy what's going on?

They're getting closer, and if James is the spy, then there is only one thing we can do.

Bitsy are you sure?

Yes. We need to split up.

Tank nods at her as he looks at Yura.

Do you still have that holo map?

Yeah, I do.

Good, first off. Go drop him back with Thomas and the others so he can't hear and come back.

Nodding, Hikimaru does that and comes right back.

Good. Now here's the plan...

1645 hours…

The Raiders were on snowmobiles as their leader called for them to stop.

HOLD ON! STOP!

He yells out and everyone stops.

The leader gets off his snowmobile and looks around as he slowly walks over to a passed-out James.

Boss?

Growling out, he harshly kicks James in the side, and he grunts out, coming too.

WAKE UP, YOU STUPID MORON!

W-what?

He comes around and looks up as his eyes slowly adjust.

Boss?

Growling out he grabs him but his collar and picks him up holding him close.

WHERE ARE THEY YOU SACK OF SHIT! YOU TOLD US THEY WOULD BE COMING THIS WAY! SO WHERE ARE THEY!

James finally comes around and starts talking.

I-I-I don't know sir. They found out who I was and left me here. I'm not sure where they went.

Growling out, he throws James to the ground and looks down both ways.

FUCK! White Knight of Snow and Ice is going to be PISSED when she finds out!

Oh, I already know you, stupid moron.

The leader freezes and looks behind him. As he does he was sent flying back and goes sliding across the icy ground. Groaning out, he holds himself up holding his head and shaking it as he looks up at the White Knight of Snow and Ice. She was a sight to behold. The Armor she had on was a one-piece that had a fully opened front, that covered and formed around her breast why revealing some of them and all her abs down to her belly, where a V-shaped formed what would be bottoms, and buckled in the back of her neck. She had on silver and icy blue, thigh-high sharp pointed high heel boots that left about six inches open from her bottoms. Her arms were exposed to the elements, the only things on them were claw-like gloves of the same color as the rest of her armor that came just below her elbows. She had a black-furred cloak on and blew in the wind behind her. She removes her hood to her cloak revealing her face, and one could see she had on a silver and white gem crown that framed only her face. The gem in the middle of the crown sparkled in the sunlight. She looks down at him as her eyes narrow, as there comes a cry from above as a strange bird lands on her shoulder.

L-L-Lady Snowd-d-drop. Y-y-your here?!

OF COURSE I'M HERE YOU FOOL! DO YOU REALLY THINK I WOULD LET YOU DO THIS WITHOUT ME TO BACK YOU UP!

She yells at him as she kicks him in the guy and sends him rolling over and over again on the ground. He holds his midsection as her boots crunch in the snow as she goes over to him.

I GAVE YOU ONE JOB MALCOLM! ONE JOB, AND YOU FUCKED IT UP!

P-P-Please Lady Snowdrop. I'm sorry. It wasn't my fault! It was James' fault! He slipped up and told them!

Growling out, she looks over at James and he gulps.

Is this true?

I-I-I don't remember. Truly I don't.

SHIMADA! TAKE TO THE SKIES AND FIND THEM NOW!

Crying out, Shimada takes to the air and looks around. He closes his eyes and links up with his mistress and shows her what he sees. Growling out after a long tense five minutes she calls him back and he lands on Malcolm's head, picking at his hair.

GET BACK ON THE SNOWMOBILES NOW! HEAD DUE SOUTHEAST! WE'RE TAKING THE LEFT PATH AND FOLLOW THEM! DON'T LET THEM GET AWAY! YOU LET THEM GET AWAY THIS TIME I'LL KILL ALL OF YOU! WE NEED TO GET A HOLD OF THE BEARER OF LIGHT & HOPE FOR THE QUEEN!

With that everyone gets back on their snowmobiles as Snowdrop walks over to James and uses her claws to untie him.

As for you, you fool. You're coming with me. I have another job for you, and you fuck this one up, it will be your LIFE! Do you understand me?

She growls low and deadly at him and he nods at her, too scared to answer her.

Good. Shimada let's go.

Why still having a hold of him, she takes a running start and jumps into the air as her wings open up and she flies off with him.

With Bitsy and the others…

How are we doing Whisper?

Good so far! They're holding strong. But isn't this way dangerous?

Tank this time was the only one that answered her.

Yes, it is. But it is also the safest as well. With our new Extreme Gear, we can hover right over the frozen ocean lake and not worry about falling through the ice. They figure out we went this way, and try to follow us, they will fall right through. It was the only smart plan.

But Tank, Grandfather, and Yura?

Don't worry, baby, I promise we will meet up with them back at the docks. You remember what he said after I explained the plan, right?

She sighs out and nods.

Yes, I remember. Right now our lives are more important than his and Yura's and the others and are top priority. We need to make it back home before we're caught. Because if anything, if I am caught, then it will be all over. But Tank?

Yeah?

I think you should be the leader of our group. Not me? You've handled everything without missing a beat. I'm still second-guessing myself still on everything. But you? You took initiative right away without missing a beat or second-guessing yourself.

She's right Tank. Maybe you should be the leader? If she is still second-guessing herself like this, then maybe she is not ready to lead yet.

Hikimaru chimes in as Whisper speaks.

Maybe she is not ready, but yet she is ready? Maybe she just needs a bit more time? What if you took over for now till she is ready, and this way they will think you're the bearer of the Emerald. The queen will be expecting the one who is leading to be the bearer of the Emerald. It would be a wise choice. Bitsy can call the shots from the side, but you make the final call in the end. Just till it is time.

That isn't a half-bad idea Whisper.

Tank tells her.

What do you think Bitsy?

I agree. I feel that the Queen will be expecting the leader to be the bearer of the Emerald. But even still we can't let our guard down. If you all think this is a good idea, to hide who I really am, then I'll agree to it. But if not, then I'll step up from here on out.

Tank, Hikimaru, and Whisper look at one another and nod. Bitsy catches this and nods as well.

Then so be it. I'll call the shots from the side, and Tank can execute them. But Whisper, you'll need to play the part of the bearer of Light and Hope. The Order already knows I'm to be it, and we will fill them in on what we've planned out. To help better protect me. Is that alright with you?

Yes, I am alright with it. I'll do my best, Bitsy.

Good. Now get ready, we're nearing the frozen ocean lake, and once we're across it, we're home free. I just hope Grandfather and the rest are alright and will make it on time.

Three hours later…

LOOK! I CAN SEE THE FROZEN DOCKS NOW!

Bitsy yells out. They hit their boosters and fly on faster, as they come around the bend they could hear barking and yapping. Tank looks behind him and smiles as he sees Yura and the others. They looked a bit beat up but otherwise fine. She pulls up to Tank and yells at him.

I see ye made it laddie!

Yeah, we did. But what about you guys? What happened?

Oh, nothing we couldn't take care of. You should have seen your grandfather. He was a wild BEAST he was. Nothing could stop him when they came attacking us.

Wow! Really granddaddy?

Bitsy calls over to Henderson who chuckles out.

You bet I was. I may be old, but I still have some fight in me. Now let's go. We need to load up.

Nodding, the ride on, and after another thirty minutes, they finally make it to the Icy Docks. Yura and her team stop their dogs and let them rest. Tank and the others hop off their Gear and hand them off to be put away and checked over. Whisper and Hikimary gasp out at the Yacht before them. It was huge, compared to most. Henderson walks over to them and smiles.

Impressive isn't she.

They nod at him smiling.

I can't believe you brought The Princess Myia, granddaddy!

The Princess Myia?

Both Hikimaru and Whisper ask together.

Yeah, granddaddy named it after my mother, in memory of her. More than anything, she loved the sea as much as she loved her garden.

She's a right beauty she is.

Yes, it is a very pretty Yacht.

Henderson chuckles out as she hugs him.

Well, thank you, both. I thought it would be best to do so. So just another fifteen minutes and we will finally be on our way home.

Oh, thank the CHAOS! I can't wait to FINALLY fully relax on her for the next two weeks as we sail home.

Bitsy stats with a stretch.

Same here, love.

Tank pulls her close and leans down to kiss her. Whisper and Hikimaru laugh at their friends as Henderson calls out.

Alright you four load up. Will be setting sail soon. Bitsy, Tank your room is the second master bedroom on the middle deck.

He winks at them, making them blush.

Whisper, Hikimaru, your rooms are on the middle deck as well. Your rooms will have your names on them. My room will be on the main deck, should anyone need me. It is also where the library is, along with the entertainment room. The pool is heated should you all like to go swimming, and there is a five-star dining room where you can order anything you like. Now let's go on board and set sail. We're finally going home!

YEAH!

Everyone cheers and gets on board after some goodbyes. After they were on board Bitsy runs up to her favorite place and looks out over the sea. Tank comes up with her and wraps an arm around her waist pulling her close. She leans her head on his arm and sighs out content for the moment.

We're finally going home, Tank. After almost three years, we're going home.

He chuckles out, and he turns around and lifts her chin, and leans down to kiss her softly. She giggles at him and snuggles into his arms as they watch the waters sparkle.