Sonic The Hedgehog: And The Odysseys Through Time

by SomeRandomSonicFan

When the Prower family creates a time machine to save their parents from a tragic death at the hands of Dr. Eggman, they accidentally unleash war and chaos across time and space. Worse yet, their future is not the only world line at stake... and worth making sacrifices for.

2. Chapter 1: The Rendezvous

The Imperial Palace was in chaos. Servants ran about the Castle dusting and shining every object and surface. Her Majesty's Chamberlain had discreetly ordered a small assortment of the finest ingredients from every corner of the world to be imported to the Capital. Inventory had been taken, the foodstuffs organized and sent to the Head Chef and Sous Chefs in the Kitchen to prepare an eight course dégustation. All this done in secret preparation so as to dazzle and woo the honored guest that was soon to arrive.

Gardon, personal bodyguard of Princess Blaze of the Sol Empire, felt immense stress as he patrolled the Castle grounds and observed the mad dash by the Royal Staff to achieve a level of perfection befitting royalty, and an honored guest. Gardon, as well as the rest of the Royal Servants felt that the fate of the Sol Empire rested in their efforts on this monumental day. Everything would have to be perfect. Not a single mistake or slip up must occur lest their mission fail and the Sol Empire be doomed to a succession crisis, civil unrest, or possibly even civil war. It was a rare occurrence in the history of Empires that a Princess's rendezvous held more sway on the future of the Empire than that of a thousand battles. Or so their thinking went...

Gardon was admittedly worried that the Royal Court and Servants had overstepped their bounds in preparation for today. However, the day was too important to leave to chance. Some liberties must surely be taken and as long as their actions would not blatantly upset their Princess all would surely be forgiven. Perhaps, Gardon thought, even praised should the day go particularly well.

Beads of sweat poured down the gray Koala's face soaking his white furred muzzle as he made his rounds throughout the castle, checking in with the royal staff about their tasks and progress. Asking if they needed any messages delivered or aid sent their way. When Gardon arrived at the kitchen he nearly had a stroke. A small but nevertheless lavish feast was being prepared, the cost of their ingredients could easily feed a small village.

"What in Sol are you doing?" Gardon whispered to the cook. His whisper failed to hide his dissatisfaction. "The Princess would never permit herself a feast of any size lest some poor creature go hungry in her Domain."

The Head Chef, a Lynx named Pepper, continued stirring a pot of Porridge as pantlers, bakers, sauciers, butchers, and carvers, all continued their work either oblivious or indifferent to the Koala's concern.

The Head Chef's response was curt and said without making eye contact,her focus nearly entirely on her dish. "It is not the Princess we are trying to impress. We are aware of the stakes this day holds. The Chamberlain has deemed this day important enough to loosen the Royal purse strings so all may do their best in wooing the honored guest. Besides, you hold no authority here Sir Gardon. Perhaps you should leave us to attend to the food and drink while you worry more about the Princess. I'd imagine she is very nervous. Princess or not, all girls get ill with the butterflies on such occasions as this."

Gardon's ears drooped. "Perhaps you're right, please forgive me if I have insulted you. It was not my intention. I know you care for the Princess as much as any other Sol, I shouldn't have questioned your expertise or judgment."

Pepper broke her expression of stone and let crack a smile, "It is quite alright Gardon. It is a tense day for all. We all want this day to be perfect. I'm sure none morso than you. Here..." Lynx turned from the stove and porridge and grabbed from the kitchen table a piece of mutton. "Eat this, you must be hungry."

"Why thank you." Gardon ate it. His mouth immediately salvated as if his stomach and taste buds were begging for more. "It is delicious."

"Yes, well… I could tell by your drool. Do you need a napkin?"

"But-" Gardon said with a hint of trepidation while wiping away the slobber from the corners of his mouth.

"But?" The Chef said, raising an eyebrow.

"Might I recommend you also make a few chili dogs? I have been told by her Majesty that in her travels it has proven to be the food of Friendships."

"Chili dogs? You want me to prepare for our Princess and dear Guest commoner cuisine? No, no, no. That will not do. Only the best for today. Nothing less will do."

"Very well then. We leave the rest to you." Gardon gave her a knightly bow of his head as a sign of respect then turned and left the Royal Kitchen.

As he left the cook turned to Gardon and shouted, "Don't work too hard Gardon, you look like a panicked doting father. Everything will be fine!"

Then, the door was closed.

Next for Gardon was to check on the Falconer, Lorenzo. Gardon walked outside to the Garden where the event was to be held. Garden supplies had been laid out neatly as if someone or some couple might make use of them later. Nearby a blue Falcon several feet taller than Gardon stood. Perched on his arm was a single singing blue bird, a Flicky. Lorenzo's yellow beak held an unmistakable smile. Dozens of birds were chirping happily all across the Garden. From the common Flicky to the more exotic birds imported from the Republic of Bazilla's rainforests.

"How are the preparations coming along?" Gardon asked with a hint of nervousness.

"Good, the Bazillian birds arrived a couple weeks ago and have been integrated into the local habitat."

Lorenzo raised his arm ever so slightly and the flicky flew off to the trees.

"I meant for the big day." Gardon said anxiously.

Lorenzo turned to Gardon and looked him over, "You look exhausted my friend. Perhaps you yourself should take a few minutes to rest in the Garden?"

"I am quite fine, thank you. So the ambience can be counted on for today?"

"Well, I can't force the birds to sing. Should they, it shall sound exquisite. Regardless, it should be a most beautiful day in the Garden for the Princess and our honored Guest. Now, why don't you go and relax for a bit. The Princess needs her personal guard in top shape so he may act without hesitation or doubt."

Gardon laughed, "More often than not it's she who protects me and I who try to warn foolish foes lest they fall to the Princesses flames."

"Nevertheless the princess counts on your support and guidance. Perhaps you should go check on her? She may have need for your perspective."

"Thank you for your kind words, if all is well here I shall go and do just that." With another slight bow of his head Gardon made his leave.

"Take care." The blue falcon turned back to the garden and the birds.

Gardon walked up the many steps of the castle. Guards nodded as he walked by. Checking the time on his pocket watch, Gardon grew even more nervous. It was almost time for the Honored Guest to arrive. Gardon stopped at his fair Princesses Chambers and proceeded to rap the door. Once. Twice-

-The door flung open and a lavender hand grabbed Gardon and pulled him inside the room before the door was slammed closed behind him. "Thank goodness you are here, Gardon. I need your help deciding what I should wear. Not that it matters or anything!"

"My help, your Highness? Would not your close friend Marine the Racoon be a more appropriate assistant?"

"No, she is terribly sick with food poisoning. Besides, I need a Gentleman's opinion."

The color drained from Gardon's face. Blaze the Cat, Princess of Flames, Protector of the Sol Emeralds, Sole Ruler of the Sol Empire, stood before him… asking if she looked cute in a frilly dress.

"I almost never wear such girly outfits, it's not Me. But I wanted to show Silver I'm not just a Princess or a Warrior but a Lady as well." Blaze's face was turning as red as fire. Clearly not used to talking so candidly about such matters. "So, how do I look?" Blaze stepped back and did a twirl. Her dress had a white bow across her waist and her hair was in a ponytail with a simple white clip. The ensemble was completed by black and white outfit was both modest, elegant, and perfectly shaped to Blaze's athletic figure.

As Blaze's twirl concluded Gardon looked at her golden eyes and her eyebrows tinged with a hint of mascara. He saw her small black nose, and a white-furred muzzle which had been lightly powdered. Her triangular ears with peach colored canals were well pronounced thanks to the ponytail she wore, and her long tail with the end naturally frayed and of a dark purple coloration was swaying anxiously back and forth.

"You look absolutely beautiful my Princess." Gardon punctuated his compliment with a deep bow.

"You're not just saying that because you are my personal guard, are you?" Blaze squinted her eyes, suspicious of Gardon.

"Of course not. I could never lie to you. I am sure Silver will be quite smitten."

Upon hearing this, Blaze let slip a smile for a moment.

There was a sudden knock on the door. Blaze opened the door to a maid who promptly curtsied. "Forgive me Princess but I wished to inform you that Silver the Hedgehog has arrived."

Blaze's eyes dilated and her tail puffed up.

"Thank you," Said Gardon. "The Princess will be a minute or two more, please inform the Royal Greeter." He then closed the door and turned to see Princess Blaze who, having escaped her frozen stupor, began to pace about the room.

"Why do I feel so sick and nervous, Gardon? I've defeated armies of robots, nefarious pirates, and helped save two worlds with the power of the Sol Emeralds. I have spent years maneuvering politically and negotiating with other leaders of Nations to ensure peace and prosperity for the Sol Empire. I shouldn't be so nervous around him. He's just a friend who is coming over for tea and lunch. This is no different than all the other times he has done so! So what if I called it a date. It's simply a rendezvous of two friends. Just as before."

Gordon smiled knowingly as his Princess was pacing, lost in her thoughts. "Really my Princess? Nothing has changed at all? Are you so sure your feelings for Silver have not grown in the time you have bonded?"

"Of course! I mean of course not, I'm simply nervous because I… because I value his friendship so much."

"If you are so nervous you feel ill perhaps I should tell Silver you are feeling unwell and must unfortunately postpone your afternoon tea and lunch." Gardon slowly began to walk for the door when a firm grip was felt on his shoulder. He turned and saw what looked to be flames in Blaze's eyes.

"You'll do no such thing." Blaze let go of Gardon's shoulder and putting her fist to her mouth she awkwardly coughed once to defuse the tension.

Gardon smiled, turned, and opened the door motioning for Blaze to take the lead. "Of course your Highness. A splendid evening surely awaits."

Behind a pillar Pepper and Larenzo watched in horror. Pepper was particularly shaken as they saw Silver the Hedgehog step through the entrance to the Castle. "Oh, Sol. He's not wearing any clothing but Gloves and shoes, and in a formal meeting with the Princess no less? Should we call for a Tailor to see if we have any suits he can wear?"

Gardon had silently walked ahead of Blaze who was mentally preparing herself for her debut which gave Gardon plenty of time to join his fellow Royal Staff members. Gardon whispered, "Maybe there was a misunderstanding or miscommunication over what should be worn? They both enjoy gardening after all."

Larenzo covered his face with disappointment and embarrassment for Silver, "I think the Princess will need to commission a Zeppelin for all that hot air in the boys head. What is he thinking?"

A minute later Blaze's Footsteps were heard and the Royal Musicians and Royal Announcer stood ready, awaiting the conductor's signal. Trumpets blared announcing the arrival of the Princess as Blaze walked down the stairs. Her face became red with embarrassment. The Master of Ceremonies proudly declared so that the whole castle, the whole kingdom, nay, the whole world could hear of their dear Princesses arrival.

"Presenting Her Highness. Princess of Flames, Protector of the Sol Emeralds, Sole Ruler of the Sol Empire, Feline of Justice and Wisdom, Rank Eight Monster Hunter, Robot Slayer, Vanquisher of Foes, Maiden of Gardens-"

"Thank you, that is quite enough of an introduction. Silver already knows me and has been here before." Blaze sighed. She looked to Silver who upon meeting her eyes blushed, and looked away awkwardly.

"So cute." Blaze thought to herself as her tail subconsciously swayed about.

Silver scratched his cheek, still averting his gaze and said, "I don't know if i'm going to be able to remember that."

"Just Blaze is fine."

Silver returned his gaze to the Princess despite having been overtaken by her beauty, "You look great Blaze, I really like your dress, it's neat! What's the occasion?"

The silence in the room was deafening. Blaze herself was frozen along with her smile. After several seconds she recovered from her stupor and did a single twirl, "Well, I have a very important meeting coming up today with a very important person so I wanted to get your opinion on this ensemble. On this date. That we stated in advance we would see each other. Specifically you and I. Alone. Together. Today." The last word was stated through gritted teeth as Blaze's right eye twitched.

Silver, ever naive, simply smiled. A huge adorable grin that Blaze found too precious was plastered on his face, Silver gave Blaze a thumbs up, winked, and said, "Todays the date! I brought my shovel from home in case you'd like to garden and check on the flowers we planted a while ago."

"I would like that very much, Silver. If you would be so kind as to excuse me for a couple minutes. Now that I have had my outfit approved by a reputable member of the opposite sex I can go change into an outfit more appropriate for our date."

Silver, who was all too happy not just to see Blaze but to get to spend the day with one of his best friends did not hesitate to reply, "Sounds great. I'm really glad to see you again. It had been too long since we last got to hang out."

Blaze turned from ascending the staircase, and as she looked at Silver and his heartwarming smile, her anger melted away for a moment and she smiled back at him, "I agree Silver. Gardon, if you would be so kind as to accompany me."

Gardon bowed and said, "Of course your majesty. I shall be right behind you." Then left his hiding place.

"I cannot believe that cute, adorable, naive..." Blaze began, standing behind a privacy curtain as she threw her ensemble across the room randomly and began changing into her normal attire of a purple tailcoat with dark pink trim, a gold collar, and white leggings. "He said I look neat. Neat! Like a set of Silverware on the table. Does he not know it was he himself I was trying to impress? Why are men so stupid Gardon?"

"Tis a mystery Princess. If you mean in this particular context, some say the cause for Men's stupidity in courting Females is that the ones we care about we are afraid to lose through a pursuit of love. Or, more dangerously, that we do not think we are worthy of the others' love to begin with."

Blaze now fully clothed sat against the curtain and gazed at the floor disheartenedly, "I thought I made it so clear. He was always so happy to speak with me. Perhaps I just misunderstood him. Maybe his kindness is just that. Kindness. Not anything reserved just for me..."

"If I might be so bold as to ask your Highness-"

Blaze scoffed and glared at the ceiling, "-Please Gardon, we've been over this. Enough with the honorifics. Blaze or Princess is fine."

"Princess. If I may ask you. What is love?"

Blaze's face reddened. "Well, it is when you cannot imagine living without the other person-"

"-Incorrect."

"So quick!"

Gardon explained, "Someone dependent on another will not always love them. Appreciate them? Sure. Love them? Not always. What you describe in a healthy relationship is an effect of love, not a foundational element."

Blaze furrowed her brow thinking intently. "Hmmm. I think I understand what you mean. So tell me Sir Gardon. What is love to you?"

Gardon sat up and straightened his sky blue Fez and Vest, "Love, true love Princess, is a response to and acknowledgment of virtue. Think back earlier to what you just recently said. How did you describe Silver?"

"Stupid."

"No."

"Naive."

"No. Try again."

Blaze grumbled with a tinge of embarrassment. "Kind, I said he was kind."

Gardon pressed further, "And how do you know he is kind?"

"He is always willing to go out of his way to help someone whether it's in the past, present, or future; be they plants, animals, children, or even strangers… but why does it seem like he ignores my hints? Does he not see any virtues in me worth admiring?"

Knowing that Blaze had long ago finished changing, Gardon walked around the privacy curtain with a partially rolled up itinerary and bopped the Princess on the head with it.

"Ow!" Blaze said more out of reflex than actual pain.

"Don't be stupid your highness. Of course he admires the many great qualities of your character. With regards to your other question, we both already know why Silver seems to ignore your hints."

"Because Silver is a male and therefore stupid, as well as overly cautious in matters of love, in addition to being incredibly naive?"

Gardon nodded. "Precisely. It is my opinion that if Silver were to have your hand in marriage he would be the luckiest Man of any world. Past, present, or future."

Blaze blushed, "Stop it Gardon."

"I mean it. I'm not just saying that because the whole staff and I think you two would have adorable children."

"Oh my gosh Gardon, I'm seriously about to set you on fire!" Blaze's face became even redder still.

"Now my Princess, in my defense it is most likely true and secondly as an aside, the Kingdom does need an Heir or we might actually have the Kingdom splinter upon your death due to a succession crisis and possibly even civil war, so, well, that's a bonus to keep in mind with regards to having some adorable rugrats run about the castle."

Blaze was silent for several moments before slowly and quietly speaking, "With regards to the kingdom and the matter of producing an heir." Blaze stopped talking and pondered deeply before she continued. "Silver and I may both be 14 years of age but that does not mean we are ignorant of the struggles and responsibilities of life. One day I like all living beings shall pass away. The Kingdom will need a new ruler... someday. Silver is… important to me. Knowing him as well as I do I am sure Silver shares the same goal as I in leaving the world a better place, on that day the bell shall solemnly toll..."

"So with respect to Silver. You would consider…"

Blaze, blushing furiously, put a gloved hand over Gardon's face silencing him as she looked away in embarrassment. "I wont say yes. Nor am I saying no." She released her hand from his face. "I merely will say, it is but one of many possibilities the future may hold.

"So is that a yes or a no?"

"Que, Sera, Sera, what will be, will be, Gardon."

"Come now Princess, we both know you don't believe in Fate."

"I grow tired of this conversation, Gardon. Let us make haste. Silver is waiting."

After exiting the room Blaze made her way back to the guest entryway and started to descend the steps.

When Blaze neared the bottom of the stairs, Silver held out an arm. His other gloved hand holding a shovel, "Shall we?"

Blaze smiled then grabbed his hand and took the final two steps of the staircase down to the floor. "Lets!"

The two had taken a seat under a gazebo in the garden. Along the right side were a multitude of gardening implements, fertilizer, and all manner of saplings ready to be planted. Silver paid them no mind as he was in awe at the quantity of birds chirping around them. "Blaze! There are so many birds here! Do you have any bird seed?"

Blaze laughed, "Yes, we do. It's in the bag near the fertilizer." Blaze watched as Silver put his shovel down on the ground.

Silver's body suddenly levitated off the ground and he floated over the Gazebos railing. He opened the bag, "Ah ha! I found it!" Silver then floated up in the air and flew over to the trees quietly. He poured birdseed onto his hand and held it out near a tree branch and waited several seconds patiently. A flicky hopped over and ate the birdseed. Then a few other birds of varying species joined in the buffet. When all the birdseed was emptied Silver began to float back down. He then used his Psychokinesis powers to float the bag back to its resting place alongside the fertilizer.

Blaze couldent help but look at that stupid adorable grin on Silver's face as his feet landed on the ground. He was just too precious. Her chest was very tight and her stomach ached as if one part had a knot of tension and another part had butterflies floating around.

Just then, the same maid from earlier came forward with a tea set. Once the tea had been served and Blaze and Silver had both thanked her, the Maid then bowed before excusing herself and returning to her duties in the castle.

Silver blew on his hot tea and looked around the garden. He listened to the birds chirping peacefully, and remembered all the genuine smiles the entire royal staff had gifted Silver and Blaze. His eyes got a little watery for a second but a couple rapid blinks fought back the tears that were forming, "This is wonderful Blaze. Thank you so much for having me over today. I can't think of how many times my future had been destroyed, conquered, or even erased and needed to be saved. How long I had to struggle to get some semblance of peace and happiness in my life. There are surely still more struggles that lay ahead for me. Despite all that, I know in my heart that meeting you has made it all worth it." Silver gazed directly into Blaze's golden eyes. "So thank you Blaze. Thank you for being a part of my life."

Blaze felt that her heart had melted and she felt that her whole body would burst into flame with how red her face surely became.

"You're too kind." Blaze said, holding tightly to her tea cup with both hands. Blaze was about to reach across the table to take Silver's hand in hers when something strange happened.

A small portal opened horizontally between the two and out fell a small object.

"What is this?" Silver said, filled with confusion. He began levitating it and spun the box around inspecting it when Blaze suddenly gasped in shock and terror.

"Silver!" Blaze screamed a bloody cry. Silver's eyes shot open in realization and he used both arms to trap the device in a forcefield.

The proceeding explosion blew up the entirety of the Gazebo and Gardening supplies and sent Silver and Blaze flying through the air at gravity's mercy. The Animals, terrified, fled in a panic deeper into the forest and far away from the blast.

Silver's singed body crashed into a tree and then fell limply like a ragdoll onto the ground as he lay motionless.

Blaze, whose body was naturally resistant to heat and flame, had been less harmed by the blast, -and completely unharmed from the flames- was fortunate enough to roll along the ground until her body came to a rest. Her body, still in great pain from the sudden explosion and rolling across the ground, protested as she endeavored to stand up. Once on her feet she made sure she could move then she rushed over to Silver's side.

"Silver? Silver! We're under attack. You need to get up. Silver! Please! Please get up!"

Silver coughed, "I'm up, I'm okay."

Gardon slammed open the castle door that led to the Garden, "Princess! Silver! Are you two all right?"

"We're fine, Gardon, deploy the Military in case of invasion, send them to the nearby city and villages and ensure no harm comes to our people. You and the castle guards will protect the Staff. Whatever foe has dared attack us will be no match for Silver and I."

"Yes your Majesty, consider it done." Gardon then ran inside to carry out his orders, organize the Castle defenses, and order the military to be deployed to the surrounding cities and villages.

Blaze turned to Silver and inspected his body, "Are you sure you're okay? You hit that tree pretty hard."

"I'm fine, Shadow's kicks are much more painful."

"Pain isn't what I'm worried about, Silver!"

Silver finished brushing himself off and satisfied he was actually fine, looked at a deeply concerned Blaze, "I'm fine." He said with an innocent smile. "I'm just glad you were not hurt Blaze."

Blaze looked away bashfully as she began to blush when suddenly dozens of portals opened up surrounding Blaze and Silver. The two frantically looked around, realizing they were trapped. They then stopped and positioned themselves back to back facing outward toward the portals.

Flames surrounded Blaze's whole body, "Ready Silver?"

Silver was levitating and focused intently on the dozens of portals before him, "I'm ready Blaze."

What next happened shocked the pair. It was not the dozens of robots that swarmed through the portals. That was unsurprising, expected even. What was shocking, however, was the fact these Robots seemed to be from the Federation and the Guardian Units of Nations… in other words, from Sonic's Dimension… and their shots aimed to kill.

Paralyzing the robots midair as they exited the portal, Silver used his Psychokinesis to grab the first four bipedal robots and hurled them into another two that had exited on his left. He then rotated his head and body and pushed blaze Away from him as he flew in the other direction. Blaze used her momentum to engulf the robots in flame in an ark starting with those closest to Silver and panning the blaze on the remaining attackers. Twelve robots were either crushed, melted, or otherwise destroyed. No sooner had the two drawn a breath, another set of twelve robots exited through the portals.. The bipedal robots turned their weapons toward Blaze and Silver.

"It's no use!" Silver said as he froze all twelve of the robots, pulling them all out of the portal and slamming them into a ball in the center of their formation, enclosed and crushed in a forcefield of pure . Metal screeched, steel was torn and bent, as micro explosions and sparks were contained in a forcefield then the ball of metal and deadly intent was hurled through another one of the many portals that had just opened. After a bright flash, heat and flame were felt emanating from the other side of the portal.

"That was easy-"

The ground shook as several explosions rattled the very foundation the Castle had been built upon.

"-Silver!"

"I'm sorry Blaze." Silver said with a frown.

Dozens of missiles rained down on the pair, Silver froze the missiles mid-flight, but he could do nothing to stop the spherical beetle looking G.U.N. robots from shooting laser beams at them. "Get to cover." Silver shouted.

Blaze took off running towards the Castle walls which were about 30 feet high with Silver following behind her. Silver hurled the missiles back towards their foes, a dozen suns were suddenly born then gone in an instant. As Blaze ran towards the wall and jumped Silver used his powers to launch her into the air and then flew after her. Blaze generated flames beneath her feet to act as propulsion allowing her to scale the height easily and land safely with Silver landing right after. More portals began to open.

"You've got to be kidding me. Blaze, can you take care of the ones on the wall?"

"On it."

"Let's see how they like us when we have the high ground!"

The robots below started opening fire on their position, chipping away at the stone with a mix of Armor piercing and incendiary tipped-explosive ammunition. Then a missile detonated causing the pair to lose balance as a nearby section of the wall collapsed. Several larger robots with several warheads were spotted

Blaze used her fire to melt two of the robots that had dared approach them from the ramparts. Silver reached out with his powers to one of the robots firing from the ground and with Silver's strength, put the robot in a stasis, then hurled him into the stratosphere. The bipedal robot activated a flight mode and made a modest recovery as its mass caused it to descend toward the ground.

"They can glide?" Blaze shouted in surprise.

"Not well enough!" Silver grabbed the robot he had just thrown then launched it back toward the other robots that were still laying down fire upon their position. The impact created a small crater, crushing several other robots in the process.

Silver looked back to blaze and she was still melting both bullets and robots that charged their position , while dodging laser beams gracefully.

Silver stared at her, taken aback by her beauty… beautiful combat prowess he corrected himself. Two robots hovered up toward their position and without missing a step, Blaze jumped from the rampart, slamming into the hovering robot with a flaming kick, jumped off its melted and crushed romaines and ensured the robot that attempted the same tactic opposite her shared the same fate.

"S-silver? Are you alright? Were you hurt?"

A laser whizzed past Silver's head, aptly reminding him of his objective. Silver grabbed the last three robots that remained below in his Psychokinesis grasp as blaze melted them down in mere seconds.

Tore them apart -piece by piece- his muscles ached and his breath was caught in his throat as he used every ounce of strength and concentration… to no avail. His strength had been spent too quickly and the robots were disturbingly resilient. Silver's hold on the robots began to fail and little by little the robots aimed their guns at Silver.

"Blaze… help."

Blaze turned and blasted the robots with an inferno of flame leaving them in a partial puddle to finish melting as their guns ammunition simultaneously detonated. The robots were left immobilized and harmless.

"Let's leave the wrecked robot remains we come across. We can salvage them for more intel on who attacked us and perhaps learn why."

"Uh, Blaze." Silver pointed to a half destroyed robot on the rampart. Its lower half and gun-arm had completely melted and it was now fusing to the magma the melted stone had become.

Blaze and Silver breathed heavily, finally having a moment to catch their breath, "What is it Silver?"

"These are G.U.N. robots."

"I know, I can scarcely believe it, Silver, but I must trust what my eyes see before me. G.U.N. robots from Sonic's World. Why? Why would they be sent here to attack us? After this battle we must call upon Sonic and Tails to seek a diplomatic solution."

"I agree. For now we should go check the nearby towns and villages."

"Villages… oh no, Silver! We must go and check on Marines Village. The military will have most of their forces defending the cities. She's ill and a brave fool. We must hurry lest harm befalls her noble actions.

"Got it, though, I have a bad feeling about this. I feel like this attack is uncoordinated. As if it's merely to sow chaos."

Blaze's facial expression was downright vindictive with a ferocious fire that terrified Silver. Her fists were clenched, shaking in anger and fear, fear for her people.

"It matters not. I am not some damsel to hide away in a castle and wait for peace and order to be restored. Whoever is responsible for this, whoever dares order an attack on my Empire, my people, my home, and my friends shall be found and... let's go Silver, we must rid the land of the last of these dastardly robots. Then we can ask why this was done and seek answers."

As Blaze took a step and was about to rush to Windmill Village, Silver put his hand on Blaze's shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Everything will be alright Blaze. I promise. Lead the way. I'll be right behind you and protect you and the people from harm."

"Thank you Silver, you truly are a good friend. I will put my faith in your abilities for just a little longer. I'm sorry our date had to be interrupted."

"Eh, don't sweat it. I've always enjoyed your company no matter what we're doing."

Blaze furrowed her brow for a moment, disappointed, then smiled and nodded, then jumped off the castle walls slowing her descent using her flames that shot out from her feet. Silver followed and the two rushed through the woods heading to Windmill Village.

Patches of the forest were in flames. Robot after robot, missile after missile, ambush after ambush, the pair overcame all of it. Left in their path was a raging forest fire and countless crushed and melted robotic remains.

Exiting the forest, Blaze ran straight toward one of the Robots that was alone and used a flaming kick to tear through its head- except her foot did not go all the way through. The robot calculated its advantageous position and aimed its gun at Blaze who was struggling to get her foot out of the partially melted robot's head. Silver, still beside Blaze, used both arms and telekinetically separated the two. As the robot stepped toward the duo and readjusted its aim, Silver used his powers to crush the robot. Blaze then used a flaming kick to send the crushed robot's chassis flying back into the forest.

The two were covered in sweat as they greedily inhaled fresh air, weary from the smoke inhalation from the partly burning patches of forest. Blaze and Silver turned their gaze to the village Marine lived in. A mighty river flowed through the Windmill Village which led out toward the Sol Ocean and the Plant continent beyond. The river and sea faring village seemed peaceful. No robots were seen and no danger could be heard. Guards, mere specks in the distance, stood about, on alert for possible danger.

Blaze let out a sigh of relief, in its place, the day's emotions she had repressed swept over her. "I'm sorry Silver, this isn't how I saw this day going. I wanted us to have a special day together, just you and I. Not spend all day destroying robots and protecting this dimension from a robot invasion."

Offering Blaze an optimistic and cheerful smile, Silver replied, "Don't worry about it! I'm really glad we get to hang out and saving worlds is what we do best, right?"

Blaze glared at Silver while emitting a low pitch growl.

"W-what? What is it? Did I say something wrong?" Silver inquired.

Blaze looked at herself and Silver. The two were covered in dirt, debris, and the latters fur was partially charred from the earlier flames and explosions. In a rare moment blaze felt very tired and her eyes began to water as her adrenaline dissipated and her sadness over the day's outcome sunk into her consciousness.

"Blaze… it will be okay. We can help everyone. I'm sure no one was hurt too badly. Remember,-" Silver gave blaze a cocky smile he learned from Sonic and a thumbs up. "-Together we're an unstoppable team!"

Blaze began to sniffle and whispered under her breath, "Naive idiot."

"I'm sorry Blaze I didn't quite-"

"-I called you a naive idiot Silver The Hedgehog!" Tears were beginning to form and no amount of regal pride would hold them back. "Do you know why I was so dressed up today? I wanted to impress you. I wanted you to see me not as a Princess of an Empire, or a Warrior, nor the Protector of the Sol Emeralds. I wanted you to see me as a Lady. As a regular girl like any other. Who could go on a date with a boy like any other."

Silver's brow furrowed, "So, when you seemed rather bothered by my confusion over your choice of wardrobe that was because… oh. OH!" Silver's eyes dilated and shot fully open at the realization.

"Yes, well, my first date has been ruined. My plan has completely failed. My hopes for today have been destroyed like the Gazebo." Blaze wiped away her tears and regained her regal composure.

Silver walked up to Blaze and gave her a hug. Blaze was shocked, then her mental composure was shattered as she melted at the feeling of Silver embracing her.

"Feeling any better?"

"A little."

"You know, Tails said that hugs have been scientifically proven to boost the immune system, and lower stress, among other health benefits."

"You don't say?" Blaze savored the feeling for a few moments more. Though she felt that even if time froze, the hug would be far too short to ever satisfy her heart.

Blaze's prediction proved true as Silver stopped hugging Blaze and stepped backwards. Looking her in the eyes he said,"I'm going to be honest Blaze. Most of my life was a fight for survival, for myself, and my world. I spent so long fighting for a Future that was not literally on fire I never had time to plan on what I should do when it actually arrived. You're very dear to me Blaze but I don't know if I'm ready to commit to a relationship just yet. Please understand. I'm not saying no to you. Not at all. You're amazing, brave, cute, strong, and I'm sure your cooking can get much better!"

Blaze folded her arms, reflexively hugging herself as her ears drooped, "Oh. I see."

"Oh no, I made you sad. Stupid Silver. Listen, Blaze. All I'm saying is I need more time to discover who I am and what I truly want out of life before I commit myself to someone." Silver finished the sentence with a large blush across his face. He then continued, "I-If you are okay with it, the least I can do is give you that first date you wanted. It would be my first date too and we could also get to know each other better. Maybe by talking to you I can learn more about who I am and what I want out of life?"

Blaze smiled and her tail unconsciously wagged, "That sounds great-"

The sound of an explosion refocused Blaze and Silver's attention, drawing them to the Southern Isles Windmill Village… Marine's Village. The duo made haste and soon arrived where they saw in the humble shopping district another bipedal robot, this one holding a massive shield that it used to protect itself from the surrounding Guards, in its off hand was one of Marine's friends, a koala sailor-in-training. Blaze and Silver arrived at the terrifying scene and Blaze took command of the battle. She told the soldiers to fall back so as to not provoke it. Silver paralyzed the machine upon coming into range, allowing Silver and Blaze to approach it slowly and cautiously. Silver levitated the terrified child free from the grasp of the sole robot and put him down gently on the ground.

Terrified, the 6 year old koala said, "He took her. He took her. H-h-h-he appeared out of thin air and took Marine through a portal. I thought he was our friend!" The koala collapsed to the ground and began sobbing uncontrollably.

At that moment a bright flash of light blinded everyone. A massive fireball engulfed the capital. The explosive detonation knocked everyone off their feet, as they fell to the ground in shock, fear, or simply out of reflex. Trees near the blast were incinerated or ripped out by their roots and sent hurling through the air, the area outside the blast zone was engulfed in a flood of flames as if the air itself had caught fire. Thick clouds of dust and sediments of ancient stone and earth were launched near and far as smoke and dust filled the air.

"What is this terrifying weapon?" Silver whispered. He got to his feet and helped Blaze up, then he flew off towards the capital. High above the ground his heart sank at the sight he saw. Silver returned to Blaze's side, as he landed next to Blaze.

"It… it's gone." Silver said.

"What's gone? What did you see?"

"I saw nothing…"

"W-what do you mean nothing?" Blaze said in disbelief and misplaced fear and anger. Her body shook, her tail, stiff and unmoving.

"Blaze," Silver reached out and grabbed her hands, holding them. "The castle, and everything in a five mile radius, is gone."

One of the guards, having overcome his shock, spoke up, "Princess, your orders."

"If this is the Federation weapon Tails has mentioned then we must not enter the blast zone. Order the people to stay in their villages for now. Scout for any remaining robots and if found destroy them. Give aid to all who need it. Now go."

The guards bowed, then the officers started barking commands, soon the men had dispersed to carry out their orders.

Suddenly a portal behind the paralyzed robot opened and two yellow scrunchies exited the portal. As if to say, "Come and get her."

Silver levitated the two scrunchies toward him, "Blaze… these scrunchies-"

"-I know. They're Marine's." Blaze walked toward the robot, as she walked her body was quickly engulfed in flames. She raised a gloved hand and put it on the robot's face and melted the robot from the top down until in seconds it was reduced to a metal puddle. Once the robot was destroyed, Silver's body relaxed, as he no longer needed to concentrate or keep a near constant eye on it to maintain his telekinetic hold on it.

Blaze turned to face Silver, "I have failed my people this day. So many lay dead or are missing. Marine, Gardon…."

"Blaze, you should stay here. I can go myself and rescue Marine. Your people need you."

"The guards can handle the cleanup operation. For now, I refuse to lose another friend. I am going. Marine is a dear friend and a trusted advisor to me"

"What if it's a trap?" Silver asked with grave concern.

"It surely is. I will destroy any who cross my path. Whoever has done this will pay. Once we rescue Marine we shall return and prepare for war."

"If you are going then you are not leaving without me." Silver said. "We need to hurry, the portal is starting to shrink."

The two friends ran and reached the portal. It was a shade of Black and blue and gave no indication as to what was on the other side.

"Thank you for lending me your strength Silver. I'm a stronger person in your presence." Blaze said.

"Awe, shucks. Thank you Blaze. You inspire me to be a better Hedgehog. I mean it."

"I'm sorry I had to get you involved in all of this. It's not fair to you."

"Are you kidding? I'd follow you into a volcano and fight beside you until the end of time." Silver smiled sweetly. "You're my friend. That's what good friends do."

The portal had about 5 feet remaining as it continued to slowly shrink in size.

"No matter what's on the other side..." Blaze said as she clenched a flaming fist.

Silver nodded in agreement, "Whatever it is, we'll face it together."

The two exchanged one last determined, yet somber glance, nodded, then jumped through the portal.