Chapter 32: Destination
Location: Gwyrdd Island
One hour later…
Unfamiliar with the topography, it was only guidance of the Archdruid that the group was able to traverse the jungle with any measure of success.
"We're almost there," Ghrian announced, stopping momentarily to allow his companions a chance to catch up.
"That's a relief," Sally said, "The sooner we meet with our mysterious benefactor, the sooner we can get back to Capitol City."
The jungle terrain steepened significantly as the group reached a stone staircase, which had been neglected for some time. Shapeshifting back into his true form, Ghrian led them up the crumbling steps, eventually stopping at a wrought iron gate with peeling black paint. Locked from the inside, it did little to impede the druid's path as he threaded his tail through the bars and popped the latch.
"This is where we must part ways," Ghrian stated, "You'll find that it's a fairly straight-forward path up to the grounds of the estate."
"Thank you for your assistance."
"It was a pleasure, Your Highness."
Transforming once more, this time into the form of a Raven, Ghrian spread his wings and took to the air, heading back towards the settlement. With the path laid before them, the group carefully made their way up the staircase that extended above the jungle.
"I don't trust those aliens," Sticks remarked.
Ignoring the Badger's paranoia, Sally proceeded higher above the floor of the jungle. Reaching a second landing, the group encountered a familiar-looking robot shaped like a Hedgehog.
"Good evening. Although you're far later then I anticipated."
"The X-Tornado went down in the jungle," Sally explained, quickly recognizing that it was Shard.
"That would make sense then."
Tails and Sticks were instantly suspicious of the renegade Metal Sonic, each having their own reason. The Hedgehog-shaped robot unlocked a secondary gate and stepped aside, permitting the group passage. They continued ascending the staircase, taking them up to the main grounds of the estate. The first thing they encountered was an area large enough to have allowed the X-Tornado to land. Two obviously abandoned buildings were located behind them, likely the servant quarters when Alexander Dalton owned the property.
"This way," Shard urged, snapping the group out of their distraction.
Proceeding forward, they crossed a bridge and arrived at the sprawling front yard of the estate. Spread out before them was a pathway of geometric slabs of white stone, illuminated by numerous light fixtures. A large opening greeted them, which led into an enclosed area that was sheltered from the elements. There was a balcony overlooking the area, but the high walls prevented them from seeing. Sally could've sworn she heard voices emanating from the balcony, although she strained to make out what was being said. Shard continued to lead them forward, pushing open a set of doors and stepping into a massive hall. The floors were covered in black marble tiles, while two chandeliers hung over a large dining table. The interior of the building had been influenced by Art Deco architecture, which consisted of plenty of gold and polished wood.
"If you'll be so kind as to remove your footwear," Shard instructed.
It was proper etiquette, although Sticks appeared fully invested in putting up a fight. A glare from Sally quickly quelled that, prompting the Badger to remove her boots without complaint. Setting her boots aside, Sally looked up and spotted Bocoe emerging from an adjacent doorway.
"Is the Boss available, Bocoe?"
"Master Tarro is currently listening to his radio program."
Sally didn't recognize the name, but she could tell that Sonic's metal doppelganger was displeased.
"That's not good," Shard sighed, "He's very particular about not being disturbed when he's listening to his radio programs."
"He should be finishing up soon," Bocoe added.
"Good. Can I leave things to you?"
The former Henchbot nodded his domed head, prompting the rogue Metal Sonic to turn around and head back the way he came.
"Wait! What about the X-Tornado!?" Tails demanded.
"Where do you think I'm going."
As Shard departed through the front doors, the group was left in the presence of Bocoe.
"Please, follow me," the silver-plated robot said.
Exiting the main hall, the group was led by the former Henchbot to the second floor of the sprawling mansion.