The final part of the story was incoming. Sonia had finished in the bathroom and sat down near her parents, eagerly awaiting the end. "Alright, so what happened after you defeated Chaos? Did Eggman come back for revenge?"
"Not exactly, but there was a lot of revenge in mind," Sonic said. "In fact, by the end of this story, I think you can take a good lesson from all this."
"Ugh, dad, stories are supposed to be entertaining, not educational," Sonia said.
"They can be both Sonia," Amy said. "In fact a lot of stories I hear about regarding the heroes on Earth are both entertaining and educational."
"Boring..." Sonia said, earning a glare from her mother. "I mean...how enlightening."
Amy furrowed her brow before turning to Sonic, "Let's just wrap this up."
"You got it, Ames," Sonic said, recalling what had happened several years prior.
Eggman was flying through the Mystic Ruins Forest, grumbling to himself after his recent loss against his greatest nemesis and all his friends.
"That foolish Sonic, constantly foiling my plans," Eggman said. "He even has that accursed Princess by his side now, just gives me bad memories of how Mobotropolis was pulled away from me right when I had it in it's grasp."
"He also has those hero friends of his," Orbot commented.
"Yeah, the fire guy and that rainbow haired girl," Cubot said.
"Oh and don't forget that fellow with the spider design," Orbot said.
"Enough! I'll get them all yet!" Eggman said. "I have one more trick up my sleeve, and then...huh?"
From nearby, there was a puddle on the ground, and one not so ordinary to Eggman or his robots.
"Is that Chaos?" Eggman asked.
In the meantime, Knuckles had the Master Emerald on its alter, but still had the same problem that he had before it shattered.
"I brought The Master Emerald back to its shrine, but Angel Island is falling again. This doesn't add up." He turned back to the Altar. "Those Chaos Emeralds, I brought them with me since we needed them to go home. Could they be the reason for this weird anomaly? Maybe I should just give them to Sonic and Tails now since they should be looking for the final Emerald."
"Um...excuse me," Came a voice. Knuckles turned around to face the now arrived Orbot.
"You? Aren't you one of Eggman's robots?" Knuckles asked, holding his fists out. "What are you doing here?"
"Please, I mean no harm," Orbot insisted. "I am just worried for my boss."
"Your boss?" Knuckles asked, then noticed the man in question laying not too far ahead. "Eggman!?"
Indeed the doctor, currently watched over by Cubot, seemed to be in bad shape, "It's...Chaos..."
"Chaos?" Knuckles asked, unaware of the forming puddle beside all of them.
Meanwhile, not too far away from the Mystic Ruins, Sonic was seen napping under a tree, enjoying the peace and tranquility following his recent win against Eggman.
As he was napping, he heard someone approaching him. Opening his left eye, he spotted Sally Acorn, staring at him in disbelief.
"Something wrong, Sally?" Sonic asked.
"You're...napping," Sally said.
"Uh, yeah?" Sonic said, a little confused by her reaction.
"But...you never take naps," Sally said, kneeling and poking Sonic on the head. "Are you an imposter?"
"Hey, cut it out," Sonic said, waving away Sally's hand.
"On top of that, why are you out here anyway? I figured you'd be back at Tails's workshop...that he has for some reason...celebrating our win against Robotnik," Sally said.
"I am celebrating, I'm taking a nap," Sonic said. "With any luck, Eggman learned his lesson and won't be a problem again. Hopefully not soon at least. Anyway it won't be for long, once Tails finds the last Emerald, we can go home."
"What are these Chaos Emerald anyway?" Sally asked. "How come I've never heard of them?"
"Beats me, I didn't really know about them until after I started exploring," Sonic said. "Those things are definitely a mystery, no one really knows about them, or the Master Emerald."
"The Master Emerald..." Sally rubbed her chin. "I feel like I heard that story at least once."
"Sonic!" came Tails's voice, the young fox flying in.
"Yo Tails," Sonic greeted.
"Here's our little hero," Sally said. "You took off kind of early yourself."
"Sorry, I appreciate you all thinking I did great, but it got a bit overwhelming, I'm not used to having so much praise," Tails said. "Plus I needed to find my plane."
"Does Sonic usually hog all the glory?" Sally asked, earning a side glare from the hedgehog.
"No, I just never really do anything by myself, Sonic's usually there to help me," Tails said. "But taking down Eggman's robot by myself was my first real step to becoming my own hero."
"Well that's great sweetheart," Sally said, rubbing Tails's head. "Though if I'm being honest, I wish you didn't have to do something so dangerous, especially at your age."
"I'm used to the danger," Tails said.
"Yes, I understand that you are but...I don't think it's good for you to be out there," Sally said. "When we get back to Mobius, I can try to find a home for you so you never have to worry about Robotnik again. You can even stay at my castle until then."
"I gotta admit, staying at your castle sounds nice, but I'm perfectly happy with my current lifestyle," Tails said. "Being able to travel the world is a bit more exciting than staying stuck in a castle."
"At least consider staying until you're a bit older," Sally said. "You did well against Robotnik but for all we know, that could have been pure luck. He might have gotten overconfident because it was just you, he may not make that mistake again."
"Luck?" Tails's eyes widened in worry. He hadn't considered that Eggman got overconfident, in fact he looked to be at his best there. "Maybe I'm really not-"
"Not so fast!" Sonic said. "What Tails did was not luck, that was skill. I know I wasn't there but I find it perfectly reasonable that Tails was more than capable of putting Eggman in his place."
"You really think so, Sonic?" Tails asked.
"I know so, little buddy," Sonic said, offering a thumbs up. "You earned that win."
"Wow...thanks," Tails said.
"Ugh, Sonic, your encouragement is gonna get him killed," Sally said. "Tails is a brilliant boy, he shouldn't be risking his life when he could do so many great things in just a lab."
"He can do both," Sonic said. "Have faith."
"Sally," Tails said, getting her attention. "I really do appreciate you looking out for me, but I can take care of myself. Plus if things get really bad, I'm confident that Sonic will be there, but for now, I have to try and grow on my own."
Sally still didn't look too certain, "At least think about it. I have plenty of room at my castle."
"In hindsight, being able to live with such a pretty girl may not be such a bad thing, after all...wait, what am I thinking! I came here for a reason!" Tails shook away his current thoughts. "Look, talk about this later, we have trouble. Angel Island is falling!"
"Again!?" Sonic asked. "What happened this time!?"
"I was about to go and see," Tails said. "Are Johnny and Rainbow Dash nearby?"
"Yeah, they're still at your workshop with that brother-sister duo," Sally said.
"Sally, maybe you should make sure Jacky and Sarah get back safely to their hotel room, Johnny and Rainbow Dash can go with Tails and I to Angel Island," Sonic said.
"Hey if something's going on, I want to be part of it," Sally said.
"Sally, come on, let us handle this," Sonic said.
Groaning in annoyance, Sally let up, "Fine, do what you wish. But I want details on what happened."
"Yeah sure," Sonic said, then turned to Tails. "Let's hurry!"
Sally angrily walked off, "I swear he better not be trying to leave me out of this just because he wants to show-off. All these years and...huh?" Suddenly the glowing red orb began to surround her. "Uh...what's happening!?"
Seconds later, Sally found herself in the old ruins, the girl looking very confused by what had just transpired.
"Hello!? Anyone there!?" Sally asked, walking through the ruins. "Did I get transported again?" She looked up some stairs, finding what looked to be an altar for the Master Emerald. "Huh? What is that?"
At the top, she spotted Tikal kneeling before the Master Emerald, a lot on the girl's mind. "How can I get them to listen? Don't they know if they continue this path, all will be lost? The path to peace should never include war."
"Excuse me?" Sally said, getting her attention. "Is there something wrong? What's this about war?"
"Many in my tribe wish to abuse the power of the Chaos Emeralds, using them to wreak havoc on the land," Tikal said.
"Chaos Emeralds?" Sally asked. "Wait, where are they from?"
"No one knows exactly, they've been in these lands for centuries, they hold the key to amazing power," Tikal said. "They cannot fall into the wrong hands!"
"What can I do to help?" Sally asked. Just before Tikal could answer, she found herself back in front of Tails's workshop, looking very confused. "What just happened!? Where'd that girl go?" She scratched her head in confusion, "She was an echidna, but I thought that tribe got wiped out, at least that's what my father told me. Something really strange is going on." She checked her wrist, "I really wish I had Nicole with me right now, but she might be just as confused as I am."
It wasn't long before Sonic had arrived on the fallen Angel Island, joined by Tails, Johnny and Rainbow Dash, the latter two impressed by the sight.
"So this whole island is usually in the sky?" Johnny asked.
"Reminds me of Clouddale," Rainbow Dash said. "Except it's a city in the sky."
"That only those with your quirk can live on without getting faint from the high altitude," Johnny pointed out. "How high is this place normally though?"
"Pretty high, at least on our planet," Tails said. "Let's hurry, Knuckles is around here."
The group spotted Knuckles laying seemingly unconscious on the ground not too long later, and he wasn't alone.
"Is that Eggman?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Wow, didn't think he'd still be alive after he tried to take out Sonic yesterday," Johnny said.
"The boss is rather durable I should say," Orbot said, getting the duo's attention.
"Oh, a robot," Johnny said. "Two in fact."
"Aren't there usually two others?" Tails asked.
"Bocoe and Decoe are busy at the moment, seems a bunch of E Series robots went offline," Orbot said.
"Yo Knuckles!" Sonic said, trying to help him up. "What happened to you and Eggman?"
"It was Chaos, he's still alive," Knuckles said, surprising Sonic and company. "What's worse is that he stole the Chaos Emeralds."
"Chaos? That water monster?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Man, seems like none of these villains stay down," Johnny said. "Such is the life of a hero."
"That traitor!" Eggman shouted as he stood back on his feet. "I'll get him for this!"
"Yo Egg dude!" Rainbow Dash said. "Where are you going?"
"That is not your concern, what matters is destroying Chaos!" Eggman said, hopping into his Egg Mobile. "Orbot, Cubot, let's go!"
"Uh boss, why are you planning to destroy Chaos?" Orbot asked. "Weren't you the one who wanted him free in the first place?"
"Only if he followed my every command, which he's not!" Eggman said.
"Dude's powerful, why would he follow you?" Johnny asked. "Sometimes, you geniuses can be so book smart but still lack common sense."
"Put a cork in it, blondie," Eggman said, flying off. "I will stop Chaos myself!"
Johnny shrugged it off, "Dude's gonna get cracked again."
"That's usually how it goes," Tails said.
"Sonic, Chaos is very dangerous, if he gets that last emerald, then it's over for us," Knuckles said.
"That won't happen, we'll stop him first," Sonic said. "Alright Tails, Johnny, Rainbow Dash, let's-"
Suddenly Tikal's orb began to circle around Sonic, once again confusing the hedgehog. Within seconds he was once again transported to the past, the ruins he was in surrounded by fire.
"This place again, it really isn't a dream after all," Sonic said, running ahead and spotting more of the fire, with several echidnas standing before Tikal.
"Get out of our way!" Pachamac ordered.
"No!" Tikal said, standing her ground.
"I gave you an order!" Pachamac stated.
"I will not obey!" Tikal said.
"We need those Chaos Emeralds to give us total power!" Pachamac shouted. "This is for the good of our tribe! Your tribe!"
"Nothing good comes from greed! It just leads to more greed!" Tikal said. "I beg of you father! Please don't do this!"
"I will not listen to the words of a child!" Pachamac said. "Men! Charge!"
The Echidnas charged in full force, knocking over not only Tikal, but also trampling over some nearby chao, the little creatures crushed and stomped by the echidna force.
As they got close to the Master Emerald, Chaos appeared right before them, startling the echidnas into ceasing their actions.
"A monster!?"
In a big flash of light, Chaos had destroyed Pachamac and the Echidna tribe, putting an end to their plans.
Tikal struggled to stand just as Sonic appeared by her side, "You alright there?"
"I...I think so," Tikal said, standing up and seeing all the damage. "No! This can't be! This has to be a lie!"
She quickly made her way to the Master Emerald, Sonic right behind her, "Hey wait up."
Tikal began praying to the Master Emerald in hopes of calming this mess. "The Seven Emeralds are the servers; chaos is power enriched by the heart! The controller serves to unify the chaos!" She took a moment to catch her breath and regain her composure, "The seven emeralds can channel our thoughts into power! If this emerald controls that power, please you must stop him!"
A blinding flash of light took over, sending Sonic back into the present, him noticing that Rainbow Dash was waving her hand in front of his face.
"Yo, Sonic, you still with us?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Huh?" Sonic shook his head a bit. "Guess I zoned out for a bit."
"Took a snooze cruise there?" Johnny teased.
"At least you're okay, you just sort of conked out," Tails said.
Sonic took a quick look around, "Where did Knuckles go?"
"He left," Tails said. "Meanwhile we should find that last Emerald and meet up with Princess Sally."
"We should let Peter know too," Johnny said. "Let's hurry before things get worse for us."
Sonic and Tails had found the site of the Tornado 2, with the Red Chaos Emerald still attached. Just before they could get close however, a large surge of water arrived and took the emerald from right under their noses.
"Crap! He got the last emerald!" Sonic said.
"What's gonna happen now?" Tails wondered. "How strong can he be with all seven?"
"Something tells me it's going to be a rough fight," Sonic said. "Come on! We gotta get to the city!"
Within the town of Station Square, everyone was going about their own business as per usual, unaware of the incoming danger.
Sonic and Tails had just arrived, hoping to spot Chaos before he emerged.
"I'll search high!" Tails said, taking to the air. "You try to warn everyone about Chaos!"
"I just hope they'll listen," Sonic said, then took note of a nearby hero. "Peter!"
"Huh?" Peter landed beside the hedgehog, "Oh it's you. Amy's been looking for you, she saw Johnny and Dash taking off in a hurry and wondered if everything was alright."
"We have a problem, Chaos is still alive," Sonic said.
"Chaos?" Peter scratched his head a second. "Wait, he's that water monster, right?"
"Uh, yeah, that's him," Sonic said. "He survived the Egg Carrier and just stole all of the Chaos Emeralds!"
"Chaos Emerald? You mean those little gems?" Peter asked. "What are those anyway? Johnny said something about them being super strong."
"That's an understatement," Sonic said. "Point is, this city is in danger, we need to get everyone to safety."
"I'll see if Johnny or I can contact S.H.I.E.L.D.," Peter said. "For now-"
Suddenly the town began to rumble, both Sonic and Peter taking a quick look around, wondering where it was coming from.
"Something tells me that wasn't a regular earthquake," Peter said.
Within the sewers, Chaos building up power, ready to unleash his anger on an unsuspecting world. Seconds later, water geysers began to shoot from the ground. Buildings started getting destroyed as Tails quickly flew out of one as it took a lot of damage.
From the air, both Johnny and Rainbow Dash could not believe what was happening, seeing all the water destroying the city like it was nothing.
Emerging out of a building, towering above all of Station Square was Perfect Chaos in his full glory, letting out a mighty roar to send shivers down the spines of many in his presence.
Sonic and Peter had gotten to safety, both on top of a road connected to a highway, they too mesmerized by the sight.
"Holy...shit..." Peter said. "Looks like Hydro Man might have a new friend."
"Guess those weren't just strange dreams, this monster is for real," Sonic said.
"Strange dreams?" Peter asked.
"I know it sounds weird, but I could have sworn I saw an image from long ago," Sonic said. "A temple guarded by echidnas."
"Weird, I had something like that happen to me too, I remember some little blue creatures, and a girl who was really nice," Peter said.
"So, you saw it too," Sonic said, then noticed something nearby. "Is that..?"
Flying in was Eggman in a new ship he had built some time before.
"Wait, isn't that the ship we just destroyed?" Peter asked.
"Guess Eggman either fixed it or he had more," Sonic said. "Looks like he's after Chaos as well."
"But wasn't Chaos his monster?" Peter asked.
"From the sounds of things, Chaos ended up betraying him," Sonic said. "And Eggman does not let go of a grudge."
"The Egg Carrier 2 was designed just in case something like this happened," Eggman said, firing cannons at Chaos. "This is for defying your master, you stupid beast!"
"Uh, is this gonna work?" Orbot asked.
"Probably not," Cubot said. "We're going to die."
As Eggman kept firing, Chaos sent a massive beam blast from his mouth, destroying the Egg Carrier 2, sending Eggman flying with Orbot and Cubot.
"How is he still alive?" Peter wondered.
"This isn't good, that beast is out of control!" Sonic said. Suddenly a red orb appeared nearby, taking Sonic by surprise. "It's you, the one who sealed Chaos in the Master Emerald."
"Wait, this glowing orb did that?" Peter asked. "Who is it anyway?"
The orb took form, revealing the physical presence of Tikal, "My heart and soul have always been in the Master Emerald, alongside Chaos. He is filled with anger and sadness. If this goes on, he will destroy the world like he has before!"
"This guy destroyed your world once?" Peter asked.
"If he did, it must have been before I was born, I never heard anything about this, even when I lived in Mobotropolis," Sonic said.
Suddenly the emeralds fell from the sky, devoid of color. This generated more worry from Tikal.
"He absorbed the power of the Chaos Emeralds! We must seal him away in the Master Emerald again!" Tikal said.
"What good would that do? It won't change how he feels inside, will it?" Sonic said. "His heart will still remain in turmoil and his anger just won't vanish. He'll just be trapped forever that way."
"What choice do we have though?" Tikal asked.
"Yo! Peter!" Rainbow Dash said, flying in with Johnny. "Do you see this!?"
"I think everyone can," Peter said. "Uh, I don't suppose you can get The Elements of Harmony and do whatever you did for Nightmare Moon, can you?"
"That's quite the request, Peter," Rainbow Dash said. "I'd need not only the Elements, but also my friends."
"Sonic!" Amy called, the girl running over, joined by a Pink Flicky while holding an emerald.
"Amy?" Sonic said.
"How did this little girl get up here?" Johnny asked.
"I keep telling you, she's not some random little girl, she's got power," Peter said.
"Still, why is she here? It's dangerous," Johnny said.
"I have an emerald, it looks different but I think it can still work," Amy said.
"Can it?" Peter asked. "I mean, I don't know much about these things, but the power looks drained."
"It'll be fine, Peter," Amy said. "There isn't much Sonic can't do."
"Hey Sonic!" Tails said, flying over alongside Knuckles, both having some Emeralds as well.
Driving up were the duo of Jacky and Sarah, with Sally in the backseat, immediately hopping out of the car. "Oh there you are."
"Uh, how did you two get a car up here?" Johnny asked.
"We were driving when that monster flooded the city, I outpaced the water," Jacky said.
"You did? How?" Peter asked.
Jacky flashed a coy smirk to the group, "They don't call me 'The Blue Flash' for nothing."
"Ugh, boys and their love for speed," Sally said. "But I suppose it came in handy here."
"Hey you're the one who jumped into my car and ordered me to drive," Jacky said. "I know you're a Princess but you can still ask nicely."
"Yeah, yeah," Sally said, making her way over to the group and showing off an emerald. "I found this, seems like Robotnik was interested in gems like these too. What are they exactly?"
"A Chaos Emerald," Sonic said. "Gems of unlimited power."
"This is a Chaos Emerald?" Sally asked, recalling her earlier vision with Tikal. "No wonder Robotnik wants them, and what that girl was so worried before. It looks like this monster drained all its power."
"So are they useless?" Jacky asked.
"Not quite," Tails said. "Chaos only drew out the Negative Energy of the Emeralds. I think Sonic can still use the real powers of the Emeralds."
"I hate to admit it, but I think you're the only one who can do this," Knuckles said.
"Of course he can, Sonic's the best after all," Amy said. "He knows where true power comes from."
"Can this really work?" Tikal asked. "Are you capable of using these Emeralds?"
"He has before," Tails said. "I know you're worried Tikal, and I know it's asking a lot to just put faith in strangers you don't really know. But you have to trust me on this."
"I...I do want to trust you," Tikal said. "I can tell that everyone here has the best intentions, none of you give that aura my father and his tribe had. You don't want the Emeralds for the sake of Power, but rather the Power to save us all."
"Exactly," Tails said. "Anger and Sadness are not the only way to draw out the power of the Emeralds. Positive feelings work too, our Love and Friendship for each other can help give Sonic the power he needs to save us all."
"...Yeah that was really corny, kid," Johnny said.
"It is, but I totally get what Tails is saying," Rainbow Dash said. "Sonic, back in my home, we have a saying that fits what Tails is trying to explain here."
"Really? What?" Sonic asked.
"Friendship is Magic," Rainbow Dash said. "I get the feeling that you got some good friends who want nothing but the best from you."
"Wow, Friendship is Magic," Amy said. "I already love that phrase."
"I will admit though, the idea of positive Chaos is unusual to me," Rainbow Dash said. "I've always seen Chaos as a force for evil."
"Sometimes it can be, but perhaps that prayer my grandmother taught me makes a bit more sense now," Tikal said. "Chaos is Power that is enriched by the heart. If your heart is pure, then so is the Chaos."
"...Wow, so the idea of Discord turning good really wasn't that farfetched," Rainbow Dash said. "Does that mean Loki has hope?"
"Loki's always had hope, he just needs good friends like Sonic has to be better," Peter said. "But let's focus on one problem at a time. Chaos needs to be stopped, and it looks like Sonic is the best guy for the job."
Tails, Knuckles and Amy gave Sonic their emeralds, Sally being the only one remaining. She seemed unsure about all this, but given that she had little knowledge, she just went along with it.
"Just please be careful, Sonic," Sally said, handing over her emerald.
"I'll be fine, Sally," Sonic said, taking a look. "Wait, there's only six emeralds."
"Where did the last one go?" Amy asked.
As everyone looked around, Peter spotted something unusual, "Uh...I think I see it."
To the side, they spotted Big the Cat holding an emerald, "You helped save Froggy, now I want to help you."
"You don't need to owe me one, but I appreciate the gesture nonetheless," Sonic said, taking the last Emerald.
Within seconds, he began taking in the positive energy from the Emeralds, allowing the power to rush through his body. Within seconds, he fully transformed into Super Sonic.
This form wasn't new to his friends, with Tails and Knuckles themselves having experienced the power themselves. Amy's heard of this form but has rarely if at all seen it.
Peter, Johnny, Rainbow Dash, Jacky and Sarah were amazed by what they were seeing as well of course. Big found amazement with the form, Tikal was mesmerized in seeing one use the power so purely, while Sally was the only one freaking out.
"Uh...what's going on!?" Sally asked, completely wide eyed. "Is that really Sonic!?"
"That's Super Sonic," Tails said. "It's the power that Sonic unlocks with the Chaos Emeralds. I saw him do it the first time on West Island, then again on Angel Island."
"You and I experienced that form too," Knuckles said. "It grants amazing power."
"So, can anyone use the Emeralds?" Johnny asked.
"Theoretically," Tails said. "If you used it for example, your power would greatly increase."
"That's awesome," Johnny said.
Super Sonic speed in for his attack, flying over the flooded grounds of Station Square. He dashed through into the form of Perfect Chaos, hitting around inside and coming out from the top, seemingly dissipating him.
"Whoa, did that work already?" Johnny asked.
Tails shook his head, "No, he's coming back."
In the distance, Chaos took form again, firing lasers at Sonic, the hedgehog dodging out of the way and hitting the head once again.
"This is amazing," Tikal said. "Never did I think I'd see the power of the Chaos Emeralds be used to protect others."
"Chaos truly is Power enriched by the heart," Knuckles said.
"Wow, wait till I tell my friends, they're not going to believe that Chaos can be a good thing," Rainbow Dash said.
Johnny groaned in annoyance, "Hey, why are we standing here? Shouldn't we be doing something?"
"Yeah, we should be fighting that monster too!" Rainbow Dash said. "I can't let Sonic take all of the glory."
"If you two tried fighting, you might get in his way," Amy said. "Sonic can handle this alone."
"You're just saying that because you seem to have a crush on the guy," Johnny said, taking to the air. "Me, I'm not standing back because of your little fantasies."
"Fantasies!?" Amy asked, slightly offended.
"Come on Johnny," Rainbow Dash said, the two flying in.
"Hey wait up!" Peter called. "Wow they're eager. Can't say I blame them, I should be doing more."
"Maybe there's people who need help," Tails said. "I imagine a lot of people are stuck in the buildings or stuck in the water."
"We should try to save them," Sally said, then pointed at Peter. "You, get swinging." She pointed to Jacky and Sarah, "You two, check to see if there's any vehicles that are stuck." She then pointed to Knuckles, "You can use your strength to move debris." She pointed to Amy, "You be ready to go with the other civilians, it's not safe for you here."
"Okay, hold up," Peter said. "First off, pointing is rude, I deal with that enough from other spiders. Second, who put you in charge?"
"I am one of the only adults here," Sally said.
"If you're Sonic's childhood friend, doesn't that put you at like fifteen or something?" Peter asked. "That technically makes me older than you."
"Plus, my sister and I are adults too," Jacky said.
"Are you seriously going to stand around and argue about this while people are in danger?" Sally asked. "Get your priorities straight everyone."
"Is she serious?" Sarah asked.
"You are such a pain," Peter said. "Whatever though, I'll go save them because I want to."
Peter swung off with Tails and Knuckles going to assist him while Jacky and Sarah checked back up the highway.
"I'm surrounded by stubbornness," Sally said. "You try to be logical and you get nothing but sass."
"I might know how you are feeling," Tikal said. "I couldn't get my tribe to see reason, no matter how often I tried talking to them. It wasn't easy going against my father either, especially when he's the Chief."
"Going against your father's wishes is difficult, especially with my father being the King of Mobius," Sally said.
"We are both born into those with power, yet we feel powerless against our people," Tikal said. "However, it seems like a lot of what I once believed was wrong, or perhaps I looked at things through the wrong perspective."
"What does that mean?" Sally asked.
"There are many ways to view a situation, but my mind usually focused on pessimism," Tikal said. "I wanted to have faith but in truth, I lost hope that my father could change. I lost trust, that's a terrible thing to lose. If you can't trust those around you, then you live a life of caution. Too much or too little can have a terrible effect."
"In Sonic's case, he seems to have too little caution, and it sounds like he surrounds himself with those who are similar," Sally said. "That's why I have to be there to keep everyone in line."
Tikal looked a bit disappointed by Sally's response, "I'm a bit worried about her, I hope she doesn't grow up to be as stubborn as my father. Of course she seems to have friends who could rein her in, not all hope is lost for her."
Chaos was still unleashing his attack on the city while Johnny and Rainbow Dash attacked his head, trying their best to bring him down.
"This isn't working!" Rainbow Dash said, then got blasted out of the sky.
"Dash!" Johnny flew in to catch her before she hit the water. "Dash? Are you alright?"
"I'm fine," Rainbow Dash insisted.
"Help!" Came the voice of a young boy in a red and white shirt. Chaos's attention was focused on the child as he sent a blast his way.
Fortunately Sonic had flown in and got the boy to safety, leaving him with some other civilians he rounded up. "Stay here!"
The boy was amazed by what happened, with Sonic flying back toward Chaos, glaring angrily at the monster.
"I'm your opponent!" Sonic shouted, attacking the head again, Chaos briefly disappearing.
Peter himself had left a girl near that same boy, the same one who wore that orange bathing suit he liked seeing her in. "There you go. You're safe here."
"Thanks, I owe you one," the girl said, winking at Peter.
Nervously, he rubbed his head. "That's quite alright, saving people is the job of your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man after all."
"Excuse me, who was that golden creature?" the boy asked.
"His name's Sonic," Peter said. "Sonic the Hedgehog."
"Sonic the Hedgehog..." the boy said. "I won't ever forget that."
"Good on you," Peter said. "Are you gonna be okay kid?"
"My name's Chris," the boy said.
"Chris, alright then. You gonna be okay Chris? Are your parents around?" Peter asked.
"No...but my grandpa should be nearby," Chris said.
"Stay with him, and everyone, keep clear until we stop this monster!" Peter said, swinging off.
"Good luck Spider-Man!" Chris said. "And you too Sonic the Hedgehog!"
Sonic continued attacking Chaos, going for the head alongside Johnny and Rainbow Dash, though the latter two had a bit more trouble.
"Wouldn't it be easy to just dehydrate the city, Johnny?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"There might be people in the water still, it's too dangerous to heat it up," Johnny said.
"Try flying in to...WHOA!" Rainbow Dash dodged more incoming attacks.
Johnny blasted fire at Chaos, dodging several water tornados in the process, often using his fire to destroy them. "Amazing how powerful this monster is!"
"Johnny, Rainbow Dash, focus on keeping people safe!" Sonic ordered. "I'll finish this beast off!"
"Okay Sonic, you got this!" Johnny said, flying off with Rainbow Dash.
Sonic did a cheek wipe with his thumb, grinning at the monster, "This is the end for you, Chaos! I'm sorry you're going through a lot but that's never a reason to hurt others! This ends now!"
As Chaos tried to attack, Sonic reeled back and flew in again, striking his body and hitting it hard, and ending with a strike to the head, destroying what was left of Chaos's perfect body, sending the power of the Emeralds' negative energy flying off.
"Is it over?" Tikal asked.
"Not sure, stay alert," Sally said.
Seconds later, Sonic landed beside them, powering out of his Super Sonic form. "That was intense."
"Sonic, did you actually beat that monster?" Sally asked.
"I should hope I did," Sonic said. "I could feel the energy leaving his body as the fight ended."
"It wasn't long before Peter, Johnny, Rainbow Dash, Knuckles, Tails, Jacky and Sarah returned to their original meet-up spot, keeping an eye out for any sign of Chaos.
Amy looked around and spotted something interesting on a nearby bridge, "Hey look over there!"
Chaos 0 was seen surrounded by some oncoming chao. Unlike before, Chaos didn't seem enraged, he looked to be more at peace among the chao.
"Where did those little creatures come from?" Johnny asked.
"Aw, they're kind of cute..." Rainbow Dash said, then noticed Johnny raising his eyebrow at her. "In a cool kind of way."
"It's fine Dash, I think they're cute as well," Peter said.
"Guessing a rainbow fits you right about now, Spidey," Johnny said, to which Peter responded by flipping him off. "Oh wow, very heroic."
"I like that Peter admits something's cute, it takes a strong man to be honest with his emotions," Amy said.
"You would think that, kid," Johnny said, earning a glare from Amy, the girl tempted to give Johnny a similar gesture.
"All that aside, it looks like Chaos has changed for the better," Knuckles said.
"Sonic's super form must have neutralized his negative energy," Tails theorized.
"These are the Chao you've been protecting," Tikal said, getting the attention of Chaos. "They've stayed alive for generations and now live peacefully with others."
"They're called Chao?" Johnny asked.
"Yeah, they're creatures from Planet Mobius," Tails said. "Looks like a few got warped here as well."
"The fighting is finally over, life can go on," Tikal said, looking up at the heroes. "Thank you so much for your help."
"You got it," Johnny said, offering a thumbs up.
"We're happy to help," Sally said. "Always count on Sonic to be the hero."
"I'm just doing what I do best, Sally," Sonic insisted.
"It's funny, but I can't help but feel like I know something about the two of you," Tikal said. "Like our lives have been connected in some way."
"Well, that's cryptic," Sally said.
"So, now that he's all calm, what happens now?" Peter asked.
"Now...we move on," Tikal said, taking to the sky, with Chaos joining her.
"Hey wait, where are you going?" Sally asked.
"To where we belong," Tikal said. "
"Will we ever see you again?" Tails asked.
"If destiny wills it," Tikal said. "Princess Sally, you can be a great leader, but always remember that their are voices outside your own."
"Huh?" Sally asked.
"And Sonic, keep following your heart, and it will lead you to eternal happiness," Tikal said. Sonic offered only a smile and a thumbs up. "Good-bye everyone."
In a flash, both Chaos and Tikal had disappeared, to the confusion of the heroes, and some sadness too.
"Kind of liked that girl, she's nice," Peter said. "She's also got such a soothing voice."
"Yeah, she's really pretty too," Tails absent-mindedly said.
Amy chuckled to herself, "Pretty?"
"Uh, I meant that objectively," Tails said, blushing a bit.
"You're growing up so fast Tails, when did you start noticing girls?" Amy asked.
"I really don't want to talk about it," Tails said, turning away in embarrassment.
"Oh, alright then," Amy said. "He's so cute when he's embarrassed. Guess I'm gonna have to be the big sister and teach him the ways of love."
"Uh, guys," Peter said, gesturing to the distance, showing off Eggman in his Egg Mobile.
"And now Robotnik's here, probably to get us while we're down," Sally said. To her surprise, as well as the others, he just left without a fight. "Or not..."
"Shouldn't we go after him?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Might be a good idea, what do you think Sonic?" Tails said, then saw that Sonic was gone. "Sonic?"
"Huh?" Peter also looked around. "Wasn't he just here?"
"Where'd he go?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Ugh, that Hedgehog can never stay in one place," Sally lamented.
"That's our Sonic, always on the move to his next adventure," Amy said.
"Probably went after Eggman," Johnny said.
"I'd like to check on that, but I am worried about the citizens," Peter said. "We need to search this town for any survivors and have them join the others."
"Good idea, I'll go fix up my Tornado 2 so I can help," Tails said.
Suddenly a realization dawned on Knuckles, "Hey wait, didn't we need the Chaos Emeralds to go back home?"
Tails's eyes widened too, "Oh yeah, we did. And now they're scattered again."
"Well, Sonic did need the power to stop Chaos, so it can't be helped," Amy said.
"You know, my family are astronauts," Johnny said, getting their attention. "If we can figure out where your planet is, we can fly you there ourselves."
"That would be helpful," Tails said. "Guess we're staying on Earth a bit longer. Which is fine, I like it here."
"So do I," Amy said.
"I don't mind staying a bit longer, but I do want to go back to Mobius soon," Sally said. "And find anyone else who might have been transported here."
"So there might be more of you?" Jacky asked.
"Well there's a girl in Japan that was with us," Tails said. "Oh, we should probably call and check in on Cream and Ryo."
"Keep time zones in mind," Peter said. "It might be nighttime in Japan."
"We're gonna need a way back ourselves," Johnny said. "Is there a way to contact Twilight?"
"I'm already here," Twilight said, her sudden appearance startling everyone.
"Geez! Where the hell did you come from!?" Johnny asked.
"I was here for a while, I saw a golden creature fly into the head of a giant water monster, then it was gone," Twilight said. "Seems like I missed a big adventure."
"I'll fill you in," Rainbow Dash said. "You'll like it, it's a story that involves the Magic of Friendship."
"Ooh, my favorite type of magic," Twilight said.
"It also proves that some stuff Celestia said was a bunch of baloney," Rainbow Dash said, this earning a glare from Twilight.
"Excuse me, what did you just say!?" Twilight asked.
"Uh...probably should have worded that better, but oh well," Rainbow Dash said.
Station Square was destroyed, but thanks to the heroes present, many lives were saved. It would take a while, but rebuilding was not an impossibility.
After recollecting themselves, everyone had returned to Tails's workshop at the Mystic Ruins, the boy using this time to fix his plane while everyone else chatted outside.
"So, you're fine staying here for now, Big?" Amy asked.
"Yes, me and Froggy have plenty to do here," Big said.
"Well if that's what you want," Amy said. Within seconds, some flickies had surrounded her. "I'm so happy you're all reunited. All that work paid off."
"It was sweet of you to help them," Sally said, holding her hand out as a flicky landed on her finger. She began speaking to it in it's language, getting a response from the bird.
"Uh, when did you turn into Snow White?" Peter asked.
"Wait, so does she have powers similar to Fluttershy then?" Johnny asked.
"It's just something I was taught as a child," Sally said. "Learning the language isn't that difficult, it just requires discipline."
"So, are you going to stay with us, Sally?" Tails asked.
"For the time being, someone's gotta make sure Sonic stays out of trouble," Sally said.
"Well, I'm still happy you're staying," Tails said. "If there's anything you need to know about Earth, tell me. I'd be happy to explain."
"I appreciate that, sweetheart," Sally said, rubbing Tails's head. "And I hope you consider staying with me at my castle when we get back. I'll let you have your own lab."
"Working in a royal lab does sound kind of nice," Tails said.
"Oh, Sally," Amy said, getting her attention. "In Japan they speak a different language than here. The boy we're living with speaks our language but others may not."
"I can study up their language," Sally said.
"Well until you do, I can translate for you," Tails said. "Say the word and I'm there for you my Princess."
Sally giggled a bit, "Tails, you don't have to treat me like royalty. I'm just another person like you."
Peter turned to his friends, "She can't be serious."
"Think she is, bro," Johnny said.
"Sorry, for some reason I can't help it, I just feel so attached to you for some reason," Tails said. "Maybe because you and Sonic are childhood friends, and I guess I want to get to know you as much as I can. Sonic's the coolest guy I know, and if you're an old friend of his, that must mean you're just as cool as he is."
"I suppose I am kind of cool," Sally bragged. "Not many can keep up with Sonic the Hedgehog."
"Yeah, it's very hard to catch up to him," Tails said.
"Still, you're so sweet," Sally said, cupping Tails's cheeks. "With such a cute and adorable face to match that I just feel the urge to...well..."
She placed a kiss on each cheek, then left one on his nose. Tails started giggling a lot before fainting from the pleasant surprise.
"Oh my gosh!" Sally said, feeling a bit embarrassed. "Wonder if I took it too far?"
"Maybe, but I don't blame you, Tails is really cute," Amy said.
"Wow, that was one Funny Kiss," Knuckles said.
"It wasn't that funny," Sally said. "Also, Knuckles. You're the last Echidna, correct?"
"Yeah, I am," Knuckles confirmed.
"I don't suppose you understand why that girl kept showing up," Sally said.
"You mean Tikal?" Knuckles asked. "I can't explain it. This is all new to me as well. All I know is that she came out of the Master Emerald along with Chaos and showed me visions of my ancestors. I wish I knew more about them, and why I have to guard the Master Emerald. I don't mind doing so, it's a very peaceful life but answers would be nice."
"There might be something at our caste's library, when we get back I can help you do some research," Sally said. "Granted I personally haven't seen much regarding the subject but we can try even harder."
"I'd like that, thanks," Knuckles said.
"So, are you staying here too?" Amy asked.
"Of course, the Master Emerald is here," Knuckles said. "Whether it's on this world or my own, guarding the Emerald is my duty. After what happened today, I know now more than ever how important that duty is."
"While I wish you were in Japan with us, I get why you need to stay," Amy said. "Just please take care of yourself, alright Knuckles?"
"Don't worry Amy, I'll be fine," Knuckles said.
"I know you will, you're rougher than the rest of them after all," Amy said, flexing her muscle.
"Got that right," Knuckles said, flexing himself, the two sharing a laugh together.
"Well that's adorable," Peter said.
"If it makes you feel better," Jacky began. "I live not too far away from here, I can always come by and check up on things. And if you ever want to come back to California, let me know. You can stay at my place."
"Where in Japan are you going?" Sarah asked.
"Yokosuka," Amy said.
"Wow, not too far away from the coast of Kanagawa," Jacky said. "Maybe I'll call my buddy Akira and he can pass by."
"If your friend lives in Japan, do you want to come and see him?" Amy asked.
"Maybe another time, I want to see if there's anything more my sister and I can do here," Jacky said.
"Alright, well we should be heading back soon," Amy said. "We just need to wait for-"
"I'm back," Sonic said, showing up again.
"Oh Sonic, there you are," Amy greeted.
"Where have you been?" Sally asked.
"Just wanted to check on things," Sonic said. "Figured everyone would be here."
"We're about to return to Japan," Amy said. "Twilight here is going to open a portal."
"I'll send you to Yokosuka, then Peter, Johnny and Rainbow Dash along with myself will be going back to Musutafu," Twilight said.
"Musutafu? Isn't that where UA High School is located?" Jacky asked.
"Yes, we're students there," Twilight said.
"Training to be heroes huh? You're on the right track," Jacky said. "Maybe you'll end up joining The Avengers. Or the Justice League."
"I got into UA thanks to Iron Man, so I'm aiming for Avengers," Peter said.
"Who's Iron Man?" Amy asked.
"A superhero who built a suit of armor to save the world," Peter said. "Unlike Eggman, he uses his genius for good."
"If only Eggman could be a good guy, but that seems as likely as chili dogs raining from the sky," Sonic said.
"Weird how you still say 'Eggman', I mean I know you like to hurl out insults but it sounds more like you say it so casually," Sally said.
"Well yeah, it's our thing," Sonic said. "I haven't really called him 'Robotnik' in years."
"No one has," Tails said. "To us, he's just Eggman."
"Eggman, Robotnik, doesn't matter I guess. As long as we beat him," Sally said. "We'll bring an end to him and all of his terrible robots."
"Not all his robots are terrible, Gamma was nice," Amy said.
"Gamma? You mean that one robot you saved on the Egg Carrier?" Sally asked.
"Yeah...he sacrificed his life to bring down some other robots," Amy said. "Like a true hero."
"Uh, are you sure he wasn't just malfunctioning because of damage he sustained from Sonic?" Sally asked.
"Are you serious!?" Peter shouted. "I know he's one of Eggman's robots, but it's not impossible for them to gain sentience."
"I never said it was, I'm just looking at it from other angles," Sally said. "So I would appreciate it if you watched your tone with me."
"Stop saying stupid things then," Peter said.
"Peter, be nice!" Twilight scolded.
"Hey she's the one being insensitive to Amy's feelings," Peter said. "She really cared about that robot."
"That isn't my...ugh," Sally shook her head. "Look Amy, I do apologize if that robot was your friend. But it is very difficult for me to believe anything Robotnik made could be good."
"I know, I was skeptical at first but, talking to Gamma, I just didn't get the vibe that he was evil," Amy said. "He's just a robot doing his job. All I did was say some nice things to him. The power of love is a strong thing."
"My sister-in-law believes in that too," Twilight said. "She spreads love all across my country."
"Wow really? That's amazing," Amy said. "I hope I can see her sometime; I'd love some tips on how to do that more effectively in my world."
"I don't think you need tips; you already brought the best out of one of Eggman's robots, you can probably reach the hardest of hearts," Peter said.
"Amy is quite the talker," Sonic said.
"Aw, thanks Sonic," Amy replied. "Alright, we should return to Japan. I really miss Cream. Oh, Peter, why don't you come and see her."
"Another time, we really need to return to UA," Peter said.
"Alright, I'll hold you to that," Amy said.
"Bye everyone, thanks for your help," Jacky said.
"We'll see you around," Johnny said.
"Take care," Peter said.
Twilight opened a portal that led to the streets of Yokosuka, Amy recognizing the area, "Wow, not too far from Ryo's house. Come on everyone!"
One by one, they stepped through the portal, Twilight waving once more before closing it.
"Finally back home," Tails said. "It's kind of dark though."
"Peter did warn us about time zones," Amy said. "Come on."
"Right behind you," Sonic said.
Carefully, Amy led Sonic, Tails and Sally to Ryo's house, gently knocking on the door. Within seconds, the boy himself had answered, surprised by what he saw.
"You're all back," Ryo knelt before them. "I'm happy to see you again."
"We're happy to be back, Ryo," Amy said. "Is everyone asleep?"
"Yes, Cream and Cheese are sleeping too," Ryo said. "Do you want me to wake them?"
"No that's fine, we can see them in the morning," Amy said. "Come on."
Everyone went into the house, taking their shoes off as they did so, aside from Sally who was too distracted by everything.
"Sally," Sonic said, getting her attention. "You need to take your shoes off, house rules."
"Oh, alright," Sally said, doing as asked. "Strange rules."
"It keeps the floors clean," Sonic said.
Once inside, Ryo decided to address the newcomer, "So, who is this friend of yours?"
"This is Sally Acorn, she's a childhood friend of mine, she got transported to this world too," Sonic explained. "Sally, this is Ryo Hazuki."
"Uh, hello," Sally said.
"A pleasure to meet you Miss Acorn," Ryo said, bowing to her.
"Um, pleasure's all mine," Sally said. "You can just call me by my first name."
"Of course," Ryo said.
"I hope you don't mind if she stays here a bit, she doesn't have anywhere else to go," Tails said.
"I promise not to be a burden, I'll take care of my own needs," Sally said.
"A friend of Sonic is more than welcome here," Ryo said. "Now we should-"
"Mr. Sonic?" Came the voice of Cream, the girl wiping her eyes, looking like she had just woken up. "Is that you?"
"Cream, it's late, you should be asleep," Ryo said.
"Sorry, I thought I heard Mr. Sonic's voice," Cream said, then took note of Sally. "Huh? Who is she?"
"This is Sally," Sonic said. "An old friend of mine."
Sally knelt before Cream, "You must be Cream, I heard about you."
"You're one of Mr. Sonic's friends?" Cream asked.
"Wow, very formal of you," Sally said. "But yes, Sonic is an old friend of mine. I'm Sally Acorn, it's very nice to meet you Cream."
Amy took the girl by her hand, "Come on Cream, it's late, you need to get back to sleep."
"Tomorrow we'll tell you all about our trip to Station Square," Sonic said.
"From the sound of things, there was quite an adventure there," Ryo said. "Reports of robots were all over."
"Yeah, it was a big deal," Amy said. "Plenty of evil to be stopped too."
"Did you find Eggman?" Ryo asked.
"Yeah...and I don't think we've seen the last of him either," Amy said.
Meanwhile off Emerald Coast, Scratch, Grounder, Coconuts and Bokkun were rowing in, finally relieved to see land.
"After so many days, we're finally here..." Scratch said. "We're finally in Station Square!"
"In the country of America!" Grounder cheered.
"Now the fun finally begins," Coconuts said.
"Let's find Doctor Eggman!" Bokkun said. "I bet he has so many-"
"Oh there you are," Eggman said, flying by. "Station Square was a failure, come on, we're going back to Japan."
All four robots stood there in shock, unable to believe what they heard as their boat tipped over and they fell into the water.
"Guess our goals for Station Square are all washed up," Scratch lamented.
Back in the present, Sonic wrapped the story up. "So we filled Cream in the next day and things went back to normal, for a little bit anyway."
"Wow! That was so cool! Super Sonic sounds amazing!" Sonia said.
"It is a rush of adrenaline," Sonic said. "But yeah, it was quite the memory."
"Sounds like a real, Sonic Adventure," Sonia said, with Skye and Lara glaring like she told a bad pun.
"That was so terrible," Skye said.
"Hey come on Skye, is that anyway to speak to your future wife?" Sonia teased.
Skye's eyes widened in surprise, "I'm sorry, but what!?"
"Ha, just teasing you buddy," Sonia said. "Man you should have seen your face, you're like...'What!' Hilarious."
"Sonia, don't tease Skye like that," Amy said.
"It's fine Miss Amy," Skye said. "Sonia just goofs around."
"Well Sonia, did you learn anything from this?" Knuckles asked.
"Uh...oh, that Super Forms stomps over Destruction Gods," Sonia said.
"Uh, not quite," Sonic said.
"Doesn't even work all the time," Knuckles added.
"Um...Uncle Tails is a simp?" Sonia asked, much to Tails's annoyance.
"Sonia..." Amy warned.
"Okay um...Oh I know, stubbornness leads to trouble," Sonia said.
"On the right path there," Sonic said.
"Take care of nature, otherwise nature will destroy you," Sonia said. "That includes destroying all tech that can cause pollution."
"...Did you learn that from Sally?" Amy asked.
"Uh, she might have mentioned it once or twice," Sonia said.
"Well, I'm gonna need a word with her soon," Amy said.
"So, what happened after all that? Did Station Square get fixed up?" Sonia asked.
"Eventually, then Tails got a special ceremony for stopping that missile." Sonic said. "He was even given a Chaos Emerald."
"Yeah, someone in the city found it and awarded it to me," Tails said.
"What about Tikal? Did she ever come back?" Sonia asked.
"She's popped up on occasion," Sonic said. "She may pop up again soon."
"Sweet, so what next?" Sonia asked.
"That's enough for one day," Amy said. "We should get going."
"Oh come on! What about Aunt Rouge, what was she doing around this time?" Sonia asked.
"I was doing some treasure hunts," Rouge said. "Then one day..."
During the Station Square situation, Rouge was checking out an abandoned warehouse, on the search for some treasure, namely the chance of finding one of the Chaos Emeralds.
She came across something sparkly on the ground, but to her disappointment, it wasn't a piece of jewelry. "Huh? A glass ball?" Suddenly she found herself surrounded by some lights, and a few soldiers. "Was this a trap?"
"Don't move!" A blond woman said, getting closer with her rifle, holding out a pair of handcuffs.
"Oooh, like to play rough, do you?" Rouge teased, the woman blushing in embarrassment.
"Excuse me!?" To make things worse, her squad mates began laughing, much to her annoyance. "What's so funny!?" To her annoyance, even her leader was laughing, "Commander!"
"Uh, right, sorry," the commander said.
"Look, I won't resist, I just don't want my flawless skin damaged," Rouge said in a teasing manner.
"The handcuffs aren't needed," the commander said as he got closer. "You, what's your name?"
"I'm Rouge the Bat," the lady said.
"I know I've seen you before, you stole a diamond from the national museum," the commander said.
"Guess you caught me," Rouge teased. "Have you been following me around?"
"That's part of the reason, the other part is some strange findings," the commander said. "Such as mysterious creatures appearing out nowhere, creatures like yourself."
"What we believed to be meta humans or animals with quirks may have turned out to be something more," the woman said.
"This sounds like a bore," Rouge said.
"Tell me this, are you familiar with a blue hedgehog?" The commander asked.
"A blue hedgehog? Do you mean Sonic?" Rouge asked.
"So that's his name," the commander said. "Reports of a speedy hedgehog were first filed in Japan, when he was seen to have been battling against a villain who referred to himself as Robotnik."
"Sounds like Eggman," Rouge said.
"Then just recently sightings of a blue hedgehog were seen around Station Square, California," the commander said.
"So you think we might be connected," Rouge said.
"We have questions for you, it would be wise if you joined us," the commander said. "Resist and it may not end well for you."
"Sounds like a hard to pass up bargain," Rouge said.
"Topaz, signal the chopper," the commander said.
"Aye aye, sir," Topaz said.
"Topaz? That's the name of a gemstone," Rouge noted. "Such a pretty name for an old lady."
"Old!?" Topaz shouted in annoyance, more laughs heard around. "Knock it off!"
"Come on everyone, let's try to maintain our professionalism," the commander said.
Topaz begrudgingly called for a helicopter, with Rouge wondering what exactly these people may have wanted with her.
Back in the present, Rouge had just finished up her story. "That's what happened."
"So...you were kidnapped by an old lady?" Sonia asked. "And she was being rough in doing so?"
"You could say that," Rouge said. "But it all turned out just fine."
"What else happened though?" Sonia asked.
"Tell you what, when your parents are ready to tell you about their adventures on Space Colony ARK and the first time they met Shadow, let me know," Rouge said. "I'll tell you things from my end as well."
"Alright, sweet," Sonia said.
"Thanks for having us Tails," Amy said "We should do this again sometime."
"Sure, sounds great," Tails said. "Come back anytime you want some of Cream's cooking."
"I am always happy to make something for the three of you," Cream said.
"Much appreciated," Sonic said, facing the door. "Alright girls, let's boost!"
Within seconds, all three had dashed out of the house, Tails being quick to get the door closed to avoid the gust of wind knocking anything over.
"Well that was fun," Tails said. "Knuckles, Rouge, Lara, you three staying for a bit longer?"
"Actually we should get back to Angel Island," Knuckles said.
"But we'll be back really soon," Rouge said.
"Sounds good to me," Tails said. "See you three later."
"Thanks for coming," Cream said.
"Thanks for having me, dears," Rouge said. "Good-bye now."
"Catch you later," Knuckles said.
"Bye Skye," Lara said.
With those three gone, Tails had placed his arm around Cream, "Kind of nice reliving our old adventures, huh?"
"They make for such wonderful memories," Cream said.
"Yeah...but was I really that weird around girls?" Tails asked. "Thinking about how I felt the first time I met Sally, then when I met Tikal, I do feel kind of weird acting like how I did. Even Amy used to get me feeling strange."
"Well that makes me even more lucky that I was the one you chose," Cream said.
"Oh yeah, no doubt," Tails said, bringing his wife in for a kiss. "I love you, Cream."
"I love you too, Miles," Cream said.
"Ugh, get a room," Skye said.
"Skye!" Tails scolded while Cream chuckled to herself.
Meanwhile Sonic, Amy and Sonia had already arrived near a beach, Sonia running along the waves while Sonic and Amy walked together, Amy having fond memories thanks to this shoreline.
"Don't get too far ahead!" Amy called, then focused back on Sonic. "Think that story got her excited."
"Sonia gets excited by a lot of things, but that story may have had a kick to it," Sonic said. "Still, you enjoyed yourself, you seemed so fond talking about Peter."
"Oh yeah, he means a lot to me," Amy said. "Like Knuckles, Peter is basically my big brother, he looks after me and I look after him."
"Anyone who considers you a sister is lucky," Sonic said. "You're an awesome girl, Amy. You really keep up on track and help us believe in ourselves."
"I do what I can for those I love," Amy said, nuzzling Sonic's cheek. "Especially you."
"I do appreciate that," Sonic said, sharing a quick kiss with his wife. "I appreciate it very much."
"As do I, Sonikku," Amy teased.
"Whoa, getting a bit weebish there," Sonic joked.
"You know me, I just love Japanese culture," Amy said. "I feel like a lot of my time in Japan really helped shaped me into who I am today."
"You truly show that Japanese pride," Sonic said.
"Hm, it's funny, we all adapted to Japan pretty well, but Sally did feel like a fish out of water," Amy said. "She wasn't terrible but I feel like she struggled a lot more than we did."
"Sally was a bit sheltered, that's why," Sonic said. "Even in California she seemed out of place, but Japan was like a whole different world on its own."
"Should we go back to Mobotropolis soon?" Amy asked. "I can't shake the feeling that Sally might need us."
"You worry about her a lot, it's sweet," Sonic said.
"You should worry too, not only is Sally there but so is your son," Amy said. "Even if you and Sally are divorced, you should still check in on her. She's still our friend after all."
"Eh, I want to but every time I go there, it's like...I get all these eyes on me, and I can't help but feel like Sally's so uncomfortable when she sees us together," Sonic said. "I know she said she's cool with us but I'm not sure. It's just easier not to be around."
"Sonic, you can't just stay away from this," Amy said. "I know you just care about being with me and Sonia, and I do appreciate that we're top priority. But I think you owe it to Sally and Manik. They are family after all, Sally's always going to be your first wife and the mother of your son. She's also one of my best friends, and an older sister to me. Plus, Sonia loves them too, she loves her big brother and her Aunt Sally."
"Yeah, I know," Sonic said. "But you know as well as I do that feelings are not my strong suit."
"Just remember, there are things you can't outrun, even with your speed," Amy said. "Just consider it, we don't have to go right now, but soon."
"Yeah, I'll keep that in mind," Sonic said.
Meanwhile, in Mobotropolis, Sally had called off her search for Eggman, Nagus and any potential allies.
"Seems like Robotnik gave us the slip," Sally said. "That's fine, we'll get him next time."
"That's what you said last time," Fiona said. "And the time before that. And the time-"
"Fiona!" Sally scolded.
"Just letting you know, consistency is important after all," Fiona said.
"You are such a pain," Sally said.
"Yeah but you love me for it," Fiona teased.
"Oh shut up already," Sally said.
"Look, I know you don't want to and I don't blame you, but we both know that if you want Robotnik dealt with, you need to call that ex-husband of yours," Fiona said.
"Sonic isn't a mercenary, I can't just call him," Sally said. "It's fine though, we can get the Chaotix, in fact Mina just went to go and find them. Meanwhile Lanolin is on her way and-"
"Just what the hell is she expected to do?" Fiona asked. "She's just some poser who thinks she's as talented as you are."
"She's very intelligent and has strong leadership qualities," Sally said. "I need a second in command."
"Oh, am I not good enough?" Fiona asked.
"I'd rather keep you by my side," Sally said.
"Aw, I'm touched, you really do love me," Fiona said.
"Not what I meant!" Sally shouted. "Can you just stop trying to tick me off for five seconds!"
"Not my fault you freak out over every little thing," Fiona said. "Maybe if you didn't then you wouldn't feel so insecure about bringing Sonic back."
"I swear I'm going to slap you," Sally warned.
"Make it a hard one," Fiona said, freaking Sally out a bit.
"Way to remind me of Alicia," Sally said.
"Alicia? Oh you mean that sexy evil twin of yours?" Fiona asked. "I'd let her hit me with that whip."
"Gee, this is a surprise, I thought it was Scourge you had an unhealthy affection for," Sally said.
"Pfft, more like he has the obsession with me, he came to me first after all," Fiona said. "Dude just really wants a Queen. Guess Alicia and Rosy don't fit the bill of what he wants in a girl."
"...Do you still hold a grudge for how I treated you?" Sally asked. "I know that I nearly drove you into Scourge's arms because of how cold I was. I do regret what I did but I don't know if I've made it up to you."
Fiona felt a surge of sympathy, mixed with some slight embarrassment, "Geez, I'm gonna have to say it aren't I?" Fiona sighed in annoyance, "I don't hate you Sally. I never really did, I was just bothered by what you said but I swear that I'm over it, alright? You really need to stop beating yourself up for your mistakes."
"I know, but I can't deny I may have made people miserable because of my actions," Sally said. "Especially Sonic, sometimes I don't blame him for leaving when he did."
"Ugh, this is why I hate that hedgehog sometimes," Fiona said. "He's got you thinking you're a piece of trash. Well Sally, you're not, he's the one who just couldn't handle you, and chose running over you and his own damn son. Now Manik is growing up miserable because of a deadbeat father. Not surprised, Sonic abandoned me too. He and Mighty just left me and Ray behind way back when we were kids, yet somehow I was still stupid enough to fall for him just because he gave me some bogus apology."
"Sonic did insist that it was a misunderstanding," Sally said. "He thought you and Ray were safe."
"Yes, he thought, he didn't check," Fiona said. "Because that's how short his freaking attention span is. Thankfully Ray and I were able to escape, no thanks to Sonic or Mighty!"
"Ray forgave Sonic though, he also forgave Mighty and is now his best friend," Sally said. "Shouldn't you let it go too?"
"You're one to talk about letting things go," Fiona said.
"...You're not wrong," Sally said.
"Look, I'll go and call Ray and Mighty, I know I joked about it before but they do have some uses," Fiona said. "Plus Ray is one of the very few that comes close to being a friend to me, so I know I can get him on board, especially if it's for you."
"Alright, you do that then," Sally said. "You know, I was thinking, should I call Tekno?"
"Huh?" Fiona asked. "Tekno? You can't be serious, what do you want that fashion disaster weirdo for?"
"Tekno's not that bad," Sally said. "Plus, I know Rotor likes working with her."
"Screw that, don't bother with that annoying chick," Fiona said. "Geez, you'd call her but not Sonic? Better yet, if you need the smarts, you have Tails' number!"
"Yeah, you're right, I don't know what I was thinking," Sally said.
"Got that right," Fiona said. "Let me just call Ray and Mighty then."
As Fiona left, Sally started walking and thinking to herself. "Funny...for some reason I can't help but think about Tikal. I wish she were here, I could use her guidance. Better yet, maybe she can help even guide my son."
In his room, Manik was seen playing his handheld game console, though seemed to be struggling.
"Ugh, I can't focus!" Manik lamented.
"Need me to hack the game?" Nicole asked. "I can get you some cheats."
"No, I'm good," Manik said.
"Can I get you anything else?" Nicole asked. "You know I am more than willing to help. Perhaps a nice book."
"Eh, books are for nerds," Manik said.
"Your father likes books," Nicole said.
"He also likes abandoning his family," Manik said.
Nicole cursed herself for bringing Sonic up, "Sorry, poor topic choice. But, if I must say, wasn't that a bit harsh?"
"Do you see him around?" Manik asked. "Mom and I aren't fast enough to hang out with him, so he ditched us."
"I really hope Sally and Sonic work out their issues one day, it's really affecting Manik," Nicole worried. "Is there anything I can do for you?"
"...Can you tell me a story?" Manik asked.
"Of course, what would you like to hear?" Nicole asked.
"Tell me about some stuff my mom did whn she was my age," Manik said. "Like her early days of fighting Robotnik, Nagus and all those other dastards."
"Of course," Nicole said. "I'll explain to the best of my memory."
For the moment, Nicole had entertained Manik with stories of the past, like Sonia earlier with her parents. The young girl had more stories to look forward too, while a big adventure was developing in her present.