Sonic: Roses and Acorns

by Masterob

Taking place in the Hero Academia: Enter the Spider storyline is the origin of Sonic the Hedgehog in this continuity. Sonic and his family reminisce about the past, and all of the heroic hedgehog's greatest adventures alongside his friends Tails, Knuckles, Amy and Sally. Features references to other franchises, especially within Sega.

24. The Hard Truth to See

At Acorn Castle, both Sally and Manik were enjoying a video game session together. Manik looked thrilled, not just from playing the game, but just having his mother beside him while he did so.

Sally was happy to be spending time with her son. Despite that, a lot of doubt still circulated in her mind, specifically Silver's harsh words for her.

"Am I really that much like Robotnik?" Sally mentally worried. Much as she did not want to believe she could be like that terrible person, if one person thought that, she couldn't help but wonder who else may have felt similar.

"Mother?" Manik said, snapping her out of her daze. "Are you feeling alright?"

"Uh, yes, I'm fine," Sally insisted.

"Well, you seem out of it," Manik said. "The last time we played this game, you did so much better. Are you getting rusty?"

"Maybe, it has been a long time," Sally said. "Maybe I'm not feeling it."

"That's fine, we can try chess," Manik said. "I've been working on my strategy while playing against Antoine. I've even won against him a couple of times."

"Wow really? You've really improved if you got past Antoine," Sally said. "How many has that been?"

"Well I've beaten Bunnie a couple of times," Manik recalled. "I've beaten Lanolin quite often too, even if I am pretty much convinced she lets me win."

"She probably does," Sally said. "I think you can beat her regardless, but she might hold back just because you're the Prince."

"Not that she should have to, but whatever makes her happy I guess," Manik said. "I've beaten Whisper at least once too."

"That is impressive, you're a very intelligent young boy, Manik," Sally said, earning a bashful headrub from her son. "One day, you might be able to play against Nicole."

"Nicole feels like a final boss," Manik said.

"She is, even I struggle against her," Sally said. "The only one who can play against Nicole without a lot of trouble is Tails. Put those two in a chess game together, and it could probably last for hours."

"Has that happened before?" Manik asked.

"Yes, a few times," Sally said. "Tails has won some games, and Nicole won her share."

"Have you ever played against my father?" Manik asked.

"I actually haven't, I don't think he likes chess," Sally said.

"What does he like to do?" Manik asked.

"Um..." Sally scratched her head. "Well, he likes running. He also likes getting into dangerous situations. Oh, and he really likes Chili Dogs."

"What was he like as a King?" Manik asked.

"Not very good," Sally admitted. "Sonic doesn't like enforcing rules, he'd rather break them."

"Why did you fall in love with him?" Manik asked.

"Why?" Sally's face turned red, trying to think of an answer. "No special reason, I just really liked him. I thought he was handsome, and charming, and brave, and free..."

Sally just looked to the distance, much to her son's confusion. "Uh...mom?"

"Huh?" Sally realized what she was saying and began to blush even more. "Sorry, my mind drifted."

"Do you ever wish father would come back to you?" Manik asked.

"Manik, there's no use wishing for what could never happen," Sally said. "Besides, he's happy with Amy, and I don't want to take Sonia's father from her."

"He's my father too," Manik said.

"I know, but...look, it's complicated," Sally said. "Your father and I won't be together again. Simple as that. I know that may bother you, but I need you to try and be strong about it. I know you're capable of doing so. You're an Acorn after all, you can withstand any trials in your way."

"Wow...um, thanks mom," Manik said.

"All I need in my life is you and Nicole," Sally said. "And of course the wonderful friends we have in the castle. Like Bunnie, Antoine, Rotor, Jewel, Tangle, Whisper, Lanolin. Great people."

"Does that include Fiona?" Manik asked.

"If she behaves," Sally said, then thought back to the fox. "Sometimes I do wonder why I keep her around. She's always been trouble."

"Why do you?" Manik asked. "You could have gotten rid of her."

"I know, maybe I should have but..." Sally kept thinking about the girl. "The more I think about it, the more I just can't. It's just easier to keep Fiona somewhere I can keep an eye on her."

"Makes sense," Manik said. "Also, what's going to happen with Lanolin? Is she just going to be a generic Freedom Fighter?"

"Something like that," Sally said. "She won't be calling the shots, she will be listening to Whisper or anyone I deem the leader when I'm not there."

"Is she still my retainer?" Manik asked.

"If you want her to be," Sally said. "At the very least, she does a good job watching over you. Not even because it's her duty. She just loves you that much. All of my friends love you."

"Does that include Fiona?" Manik asked.

Sally nodded her head, "She's weird about showing it, but I can tell she loves you as well. Probably another reason I can't get rid of her."

"Seems like it," Manik said. "Well, let's get to that chess game."

"Sure thing sweetheart," Sally said as her son grabbed the board. "He's such a good boy, I hope he becomes a better King than I am a Queen."

Meanwhile at the entrance to the castle, Cream had knocked on the door and awaited an answer. It wasn't long before Jewel responded.

"Cream, you don't need to knock," Jewel said. "You were just here, besides you're always welcome in Sally's castle."

"I know, but Sonia and I brought some guests," Cream said as she and the girl in question gestured to Ken, Li Moon, Lupe and Undina.

"Greetings Jewel," Ken said as he bowed to her.

"King Monkey Khan!?" Jewel asked.

"Just 'Ken' is fine," the King reassured.

"Oh, and you've brought some guests, including Chiefess Lupe of the Wolf Pack!" Jewel bowed to her. "It is a pleasure to see you again."

"The pleasure is all mine," Lupe reassured.

"And Queen Undina!" Jewel said. "It's always a pleasure!"

"You haven't changed a bit Jewel, just the way I like it," Undina said.

Jewel focused her attention on the sole fox, "Oh, aren't you Chief Li Yuen's granddaughter?"

"Actually, I have succeeded him," Li Moon said. "My grandfather has sadly passed away a few short months ago."

"Oh, my condolences," Jewel said.

"It is fine, he was at peace, the way it should be," Li Moon said. "I now carry the title of leader, and it is quite the responsibility I must say."

"She handles it quite well," Ken said. "May we come in? We would like an audience with Queen Sally."

"Of course, I'll go fetch her!" Jewel turned her attention to her rabbit friend, "Cream, would you mind keeping our guests company a bit longer until I get Queen Sally?"

"Not at all," Cream reassured.

"I can help too," Sonia said.

"I do appreciate that, I will be back," Jewel flew off in a hurry.

"Such an excitable woman," Ken said.

"She is always happy to help, even if she spreads herself kind of thin," Cream said.

"Sure seems like it," Ken said, then focused on the young hedgehog. "So...Sonic's daughter. That fact has been running rampant in my mind for the last few minutes."

"Looks like it really rocked your world, huh?" Sonia asked.

"Quite so," Ken admitted. "How old are you exactly?"

"Hey, didn't anyone teach you not to ask the age of a girl you just met?" Sonia teased.

"Uh..." Ken wasn't sure how to respond, he awkwardly rubbed his head while Li Moon, Lupe and Undina had a chuckle at his expense.

"Sonia, be nice," Cream scolded.

"It's fine, she means no harm," Ken said.

"And she's not wrong," Lupe said. "I like the youthful energy of this one."

"I'm just confused," Ken admitted. "I know I have not been to Mobotropolis in several years, but I always maintained some form of contact with Queen Sally. She came to my Kingdom just last year, not once did she mention her marriage to Sonic being annulled."

"I think she's embarrassed by it," Cream said. "Being divorced isn't easy."

"Especially for a Queen," Jewel said. "It does not put her in good light."

"I'm just surprised, I was convinced that Sonic was deeply in love with Sally," Undina said. "He was quite close to her the first time he visited Meropis."

"I too believed they were happy with one another," Lupe said.

"It's unfortunate, but that's life sometimes," Cream said. "Sonic and Sally do their best to maintain as strong of a bond as they can. For the sake of their son."

"That is good to know," Ken glanced down at Sonia. "So, you are Sonic's daughter, and I believe I caught that your last name is Rose. Would you also happen to be related to Amy Rose?"

"Yeah, I'm her daughter," Sonia said.

"Sonic married Amy?" Undina said. "So, he was in love with her."

"Of course, did you have any doubts?" Cream asked.

"Well that one Earthling who catches fire and the other who has Rainbow hair mentioned that she just had a silly crush," Undina said. "Even at the wedding, they mentioned that Amy could finally move on."

Cream grumbled in annoyance before focusing back on the Meropis Queen, "Don't take them seriously, Undina. Johnny and Rainbow Dash are nice people, but they say the most immature things at times."

"How well did any of you know my mom?" Sonia asked.

"I remember how helpful she was during the war against The Iron Dominion," Ken said. "I do say, no one could wield a hammer quite like her."

"She's come to Meropis a couple of times, she even helped me out when I had trouble regarding my friend Coral," Undina said. "She helped convince my parents to let her continue her job as my Priestess, even though they found her inept. So I feel grateful for that."

"I have seen her on occasion, she is a wise young woman who seems to have bred a very darling child," Lupe said.

"So...none of you are mad that she took my daddy away from Queen Sally?" Sonia asked.

"Sonia, your mother didn't take Sonic away from Sally, they mutually agreed to get a divorce," Cream pointed out.

"That didn't stop her friends from hating my mom," Sonia said.

"Ignore them, most of them have their own troubles, and just want a distraction from that," Cream said.

"Wow...that's pretty forward of you, Aunt Cream," Sonia said.

"Maybe, but it's not far from the truth," Cream said.

Ken rubbed his chin in wonder, "That might explain why that retainer of hers refused to speak of Sonic."

"Which one?" Lupe asked.

"I do not remember her name, but she was a sheep with a bell around her neck," Ken said.

"That sounds like Lanolin," Cream clarified.

"Come to think of it, when Antoine came by Meropis that one time, he seemed reluctant to talk about Sonic," Undina said. "I take it things must be tense here."

"Things are fine, don't worry about it," Cream insisted. "Let's not get into this, just wait for Sally to come back."

"As you wish," Ken said.

Meanwhile Jewel was flying around, trying to recall where Sally was. "Where was she off to again?"

"Jewel?" Nicole phased in, getting the girl's attention. "Is something wrong?"

"Oh Nicole, thank goodness," Jewel said. "We have guests. King Monkey Khan, Li Moon, Queen Undina and Chiefess Lupe are here to see Sally."

"Ken's actually here?" Nicole asked. "And he brought guests?"

"Yes, and I must find Sally at once!" Jewel said.

"I'll go fetch her, you go back and keep Ken company," Nicole said. "Wait, did you leave him alone?"

"Cream's there," Jewel said.

"That's good, but I'd feel better if you were there too," Nicole said.

"Yes Nicole!" Jewel said and flew off, leaving Nicole to her thoughts.

"I'm amazed that Ken's here, what could he want?" Nicole flew off to find Sally. As she did, she came across a certain council member. "Geoffrey?"

"You look like you're in a hurry," Geoffrey said.

"I can't talk to you now, I need to find Sally," Nicole said. "Monkey Khan is here with some guests and-"

"Monkey Khan!?" Geoffrey asked in disbelief. "As in the King of the Dragon Kingdom?"

"Yes, I need to let Sally know he's here," Nicole said.

"I shall greet him then," Geoffrey said as he turned to leave.

"WAIT!" Nicole urged. "It might be better if you found Sally first. Jewel's already keeping him company, but he and the other rulers need to speak to Sally."

"Other Rulers?" Geoffrey asked. "Busy day huh? Very well, I shall look for Queen Sally."

With Geoffrey gone, Nicole took a breath of relief, "Can't have him saying anything stupid to Ken or the others."

As she looked for her sister, in the other room, Fiona and the team of Lanolin, Rotor and Tekno were getting to work on their plans.

"Man, I can't believe we're building our own Sonic!" Tekno said as she got to work. "Whoever came up with this plan is a genius!"

"Why thank you," Fiona said. "I am quite intelligent, aren't I?"

"But not very humble," Rotor said as he placed some tools on the table. "I really don't think Sally's going to like this."

"Of course she will, it's all the power of Sonic without Sonic himself," Tekno said. "He can be the soldier that Queen Sally wants."

"Exactly, and since Doctor Egghead has his own Metal Sonic, I figured why shouldn't we?" Fiona said.

"We'll finally have a Sonic that actually listens to someone other than his own ego," Lanolin said.

"You know he doesn't actually have an ego, right?" Rotor said. "That's something you and pretty much everyone else made up."

"Are we talking about the same Sonic here?" Fiona asked. "The only Sonic I know is one who's completely selfish and just wants to look cool more than actually be there for people he says he loves."

"...That sounds more like Scourge," Rotor said, earning Fiona's glare. "Who technically speaking, is another Sonic."

"He's not wrong," Tekno said. "But I do somewhat agree with you, Fi. Sonic does have a bit of an ego, he just does whatever he wants because he thinks he can do anything. Of course the same could be said about a lot of guys."

"Hey!" Rotor said.

"Not you, Rotor, you're one of the decent guys," Tekno said.

"Honestly Tekno, you're not wrong, a lot of guys are morons," Fiona said. "But thankfully there's guys like Tails who actually care about people around him."

"Oh for sure, Sally's been a good influence on him," Tekno said. "Plus, I'm not gonna lie, he's super cute. If he were single, I might have had an eye on him."

"Aren't you only into girls?" Fiona asked.

"Says who?" Tekno replied.

"You girls really like Tails, but I never saw the appeal," Lanolin said as her Wisp brought over some material. "I will admit, he is an excellent speaker, and I'm happy he's loyal to Sally. But he's not perfect, remember he hangs around Sonic."

"Who is a great guy and the reason Tails is so great himself," Rotor pointed out.

"Dang Rotor, you're really going to not acknowledge Sally's impact on the boy?" Tekno asked. "I thought you were friends."

"Ugh, what I mean is that Sonic helped make Tails into the great guy he is," Rotor said. "Sally helped too of course, she was like a mother to him. But let's not forget that Sonic has reached out to a lot of people. Tails and Amy are just the biggest examples of his kindness having a positive effect."

"Then Amy decided to take Sonic for herself while giving the finger to a woman who practically raised her as well," Lanolin said.

"I won't lie, I love Amy and all, but that was probably the one thing about her that I wasn't down with," Tekno said.

Rotor facepalmed as he kept working, "There's just no reasoning with these girls."

Not too long later, a certain skunk had passed by the room, curious as to what was happening. "What is going on in here?"

"Geoffrey? Where'd you come from?" Rotor asked.

"The door..." Geoffrey said. "Is Queen Sally here?"

"She should be with her son," Tekno said. "But maybe don't bother her right now, she's trying to enjoy herself."

"She's a Queen, she has no time for that!" Geoffrey said. "Honestly, lollygagging while a Kingdom needs to be run. What would her father think?"

"Who gives a shit? She's a grown woman," Tekno said.

"He is a former King!" Geoffrey said.

"And Sally is the current Queen," Fiona said. "By the way, she works really hard at her job, if she wants to take ten minutes to spend time with her son, the future King of this Kingdom, then let her."

"She's not lazy like her useless ex-husband is," Lanolin said.

"Ugh, you girls suck at explaining things," Rotor said, then focused on Geoffrey himself. "Sally will be ready when she is, but if it can wait, then let it. She's really stressed out and just needs a few minutes to regain her composure. She's worked nonstop for the last several days, harder than all of us, let her take a few minutes to herself. More than anything, she just wants to spend a little time with her son. Queen or not, she's still a mother, so lay off of her already."

"You have quite a mouth," Geoffrey said. "Surprising given how often you fade into the background."

"Yeah, yeah, like I haven't heard that before," Rotor snapped back. "By the way, with all due respect to King Max, he does not get a say in what Sally does. She's an adult and she can make her own choices. She does a damn good job as Queen and no one, not even her father, can convince me otherwise."

"Well, if I were you, I'd prioritize finding her, because we have Royal Guests," Geoffrey said. "King Monkey Khan has graced us with his presence."

"Ken's here?" Rotor asked, much to everyone's concern. "Crap, that's actually kind of big."

"What's Ken doing here?" Fiona asked. "He hasn't been to Mobotropolis in ages, why is he here now?"

"I don't know, and honestly it is of little concern to me," Geoffrey said. "Just go and find Queen Sally immediately."

"Yeah, yeah," Fiona said. "You know, you've always been a pain, but lately you've been worse. People hate you more than they hate me, and that's saying something."

"I do not need to hear this from you, after all, you have betrayed us once," Geoffrey said.

"Yeah, bring that up why don't you?" Fiona replied. "I'm serious, annoying as you were, at least you were diligent and did your best, even when things were tough. Since Hershey's disappearance-"

"Do NOT breathe a word about my wife!" Geoffrey warned, glaring right into Fiona's eyes. "You could not understand anything about that."

"Look pal, I've been in a relationship," Fiona said. "It was unhealthy, but I know what it's like to care about someone."

Geoffrey scoffed at Fiona's notion, "You? Care about someone? That's a laugh."

"Hey ease up on Fiona, she's just trying to help," Rotor said.

"I suggest you focus less on 'help' and more on finding your Queen," Geoffrey said.

"Let me," Lanolin said. "It is my duty as a Freedom Fighter."

"Very well, let us be off," Geoffrey said as he left with Lanolin.

Fiona rubbed her chin in wonder, "He said other royals were here too, who could they be?"

"The only other Queen that Sally knows is Undina," Rotor said. "But I'm just as curious about this."

"I guess we can worry about it later," Fiona said. "Let's focus on this. How long do you think it'll take?"

"Not long," Tekno said. "I can handle it alone with no problem. With Rotor by my side, I think we'll get it done even faster."

"It'd work even better with Tails by our side," Rotor said.

"We've been over this Rotor, if Tails finds out, he might tell Sally," Fiona said. "I want this done to give Sally some peace of mind. This way, whatever time she's spending with Manik won't need to feel so rare. Now let's focus."

"Sure," Rotor said as he grabbed his materials. "I really hope this works though."

In another room, Sally had set up the chess pieces, with Manik sitting near the black pieces as Sally took the white. "Alright, we're all set. Now-"

"Sally!?" Nicole called, getting their attention. She spotted the two about to play chess, and the Lynx started feeling terrible about what needed to be done.

"Nicole, did you need something?" Sally asked.

"I am so sorry to have to interrupt this but...we have guests," Nicole said.

"Can't they wait? Mom's busy," Manik said.

"I wish they could, but, it's kind of a big deal," Nicole said.

"My mother's the Queen, who's so big of a deal that this person needs to see her right away?" Manik asked.

"A King," Nicole said. "It's Ken."

"Ken!?" Sally asked in disbelief.

"Who's Ken?" Manik asked.

"Monkey Khan, we went to his Kingdom last year," Sally reminded.

"...Right, you all call him 'Ken'," Manik said. "Wait, what's King Monkey Khan doing here!?"

"He's not alone," Nicole said. "Undina and Lupe are here too."

"Ken, Undina and Lupe!?" Sally asked in disbelief. She apologetically turned her attention to her son. "Sorry sweetheart, but-"

"It's fine, sounds like it's really important," Manik said. "Not just a King, but another Queen. And even the Leader of the Wolf Pack."

"We'll pick this up later, maybe before your bedtime," Sally said.

"Why don't you come too, Manik?" Nicole suggested. "It'd be great for you to see your mother's Royal Allies."

"Sure, I guess," Manik said as he stood up. "Should we wear our crowns?"

"That's not a bad idea," Sally said.

"Sally!" Called Lanolin's voice.

"Keep your voice down! You're calling the Queen, not one of your rowdy speedy friends!" Geoffrey's voice was heard saying.

"Ew, don't call those ruffians my friends," Lanolin said.

"Lanolin! I'm in here!" Sally said. "I'm in Manik's room!"

Lanolin peeked her head in, "My Queen!" She ran over and knelt before the chipmunk. "I bring news!"

"Lanolin, please stand up," Sally assisted the girl onto her feet. "If this is about Ken, then Nicole already told me."

"Oh, well that's good," Lanolin said. "So I guess I didn't need to come."

"It's fine, you were just doing your job," Sally said. "Mind coming with me to get my crown?"

"Yes!" Lanolin shouted in glee before dialing it back. "I mean...sure Queen Sally."

Sally could tell Lanolin was trying too hard. Of course this was normal for the girl, even if it was weird for Sally. But she also felt flattered at how much Lanolin still admired her. "Come with me then."

"Come on Manik," Nicole led the Prince away. Before leaving, she focused her attention on Geoffrey, "That will be all, go back to doing...whatever it is you in the Council do."

"And try not to give my mother more work," Manik said as he left.

"Pfft, what a brat, of course he is Sally's son," Geoffrey noted. "What's worse, he's got that same smugness as his father. That hedgehog's genes are strong in that boy."

In the main hall, Jewel had returned and was currently offering tea to the guests, "I hope you like this blend. It's Lavender."

"Much appreciated," Ken said as he took a sip. "This tastes exotic."

"Is it from Earth?" Undina asked. "I know Queen Sally gets a lot of cool things from Earth."

"It might be, it is from Amy Rose's bakery, and she has friends on Earth," Jewel said. She turned her attention to Sonia. "Would you like any tea?"

"Got any Boba?" Sonia asked.

"I...do not know if we do," Jewel said. "Does your mother sell it?"

"She should, it's really popular," Sonia said. "But if you don't have it, that's fine. I don't want you going through too much trouble for me."

"It's no trouble at all, you are Amy's daughter," Jewel said.

"I still can't believe Sonic left Sally for Amy," Undina said, earning Cream's glare. "Sonic and Sally looked perfect together."

"I am just as surprised," Ken said.

"It is quite sad, isn't it?" Jewel said. "Such a lovely couple, gone in a flash."

"Sally is a remarkable woman, why Sonic would have left her?" Ken pondered. "I just can't imagine why he would."

"Honestly, the idea that anyone would not want to be with Sally Acorn is quite honestly inconceivable," Jewel said. "She's such a kindhearted woman who would do anything for those she loves, to leave her behind, and with a child no less? It's a travesty!"

"Ahem..." Cream interjected, this getting everyone's attention. "Let's not delve into this. It's a personal matter between Sonic and Sally. What matters is that they're still friends and they make an effort to maintain their bond."

"Sonic leaves any chance he gets though," Jewel pointed out.

"Jewel!" Cream forced a smile despite a vein throbbing in her head. "That's quite enough."

Sonia shamefully kicked her feet, worried about how bad things were getting. It didn't take Jewel long to realize what she was saying.

"Oh, I meant no disrespect to you Sonia," Jewel insisted. "It's certainly not your fault that Queen Sally's been depressed lately."

"Depressed!?" Sonia asked in concern, this irritating Cream.

"Uh, I mean...Amy's a sweet woman, she didn't mean to steal Sonic away from Sally," Jewel said. "If anything, Sonic should have just been more faithful."

"...Seriously!?" Cream asked.

Ken glanced at the others in confusion, all of them confused as to what to make of this situation. He focused his attention back on Cream and Jewel, "So, is it a bad time to be here or...?"

"Ken!" Nicole called as she materialized nearby. "Sally's here."

"Sally?" Ken turned to greet the Queen whom he traveled so far to see, a treat for his eyes that were well appreciated.

"Ken, it's so good to see you," Sally said. The girl had her son by her side as the two glanced toward the Dragon Kingdom ruler.

Both Lanolin and Geoffrey were also present, having just arrived with Sally while she reacquainted with her fellow royals.

Ken took a moment to take in Sally's presence. All these years and she has barely changed. She is still the radiant and majestic queen that he always knew, a true pinnacle of beauty. "Yes, it is great to see you as well Sally."

Sally stared in awe of Ken. She has seen him a few times over the years, but he has barely changed himself. He still looked like a strong and powerful King, if anything he radiates even more confidence than he has prior.

After a few seconds of just eye contact, Manik cleared his throat to get everyone's attention. "Ahem..."

"Huh?" Sally began blushing once she realized she had been staring. "Uh right. Ken, you remember my son, don't you?"

"Yes, young Manik Acorn," Ken said as he glanced at the boy. "You remember me of course, don't you?"

"Yeah, mom dragged me to your Kingdom a couple of times," Manik said.

"Manik!" Sally scolded.

"It's fine, I suppose business trips aren't fun," Ken said.

"I thought it'd be more exciting, but it was just you two talking for hours," Manik said.

"It can be like that I'm afraid," Ken said. "But now I'm here instead, honestly I don't think I've been here since your first birthday party."

"You came for my birthday?" Manik asked.

"Yes, shamefully I could only come for the first," Ken said. "I've been so busy over the years that I haven't made enough time for myself. Rebuilding my Kingdom after the damage sustained by The Iron Queen was no easy feat."

"I hope I was able to do all I could to help," Sally said.

"You funded the process, and I do appreciate that," Ken said. "But my visit was long overdue. I really do miss your presence Sally, seeing you again after so long puts me in a very pleasant mood."

"Heh, how flattering," Sally said, the Queen blushing a bit. This action didn't go unnoticed by anyone in the room, causing confusion for Nicole, caution from Sonia and curiosity from Manik.

"Hey um..." Undina spoke up. "Ken isn't the only one who came."

"Uh, right!" Sally sheepishly said as she turned to her fellow Queen. "It's great to see you Undina, how's Meropis?"

"All good, being a Queen is a lot of work though, but Coral's been helping me out big time," Undina said.

"It's good to have friends and those you can trust," Sally said as she gestured to Nicole. "I don't think I would have lasted long without Nicole here."

"Thanks, but I think you had it under control," Nicole insisted.

Sally turned to the Wolf Pack leader, "Lupe, it's been way too long."

"Like our mutual friend Ken, I too have been very busy protecting my tribe," Lupe said.

"We need to catch up later," Sally turned to the final guest. "Oh, Li Moon, you're here too?"

Li Moon bowed to Sally, "I am very happy to be in your presence Queen Sally. There is much we should catch up on."

"Yeah, for starters, how come you never told us you were divorced?" Undina asked, taking Sally by surprise.

"Undina!" Lupe scolded.

"Hey we're all thinking it," Undina said. "I really thought she and Sonic were going to last forever."

"Yes...I suppose I should have told you about my divorce," Sally admitted. "But, it's not exactly something I can squeeze into a conversation."

"But for so many years?" Ken asked. "How long has it been exactly?"

"Seven years," Sally confirmed.

"Then Sonic ran off with another girl?" Undina asked.

"Can you not word it like that!?" Cream scolded. "You're making Sonic sound like a dead beat."

"He is though," Lanolin said, earning Cream's glare.

"Don't you have something else you could be doing!?" Cream asked.

"Actually, I do," Lanolin said. "Sally, I'd love to be here while you get reacquainted with King Monkey Khan, Queen Undina, Chiefess Lupe and Miss Li Moon, but I have some business to attend to."

"Uh, sure," Sally said.

Lanolin bowed to the others, "I bid you farewell. Oh, and King Monkey Khan?"

"I've told you in the past to call me 'Ken'," the King insisted.

"Sorry sir, anyway I am very happy you're here, and if you need an extended stay, I will gladly be of assistance," Lanolin said.

"It's fine," Ken said. "I don't think-"

"Actually, that would be nice," Li Moon said. "Just in case we need to stay in town."

"You're more than welcome to," Sally said.

"I bid you farewell King Ken," Lanolin said as she left.

Ken chuckled a bit at Lanolin's antics, "Still as formal as ever."

"She's sweet, but she takes things too seriously," Sally said.

"Well she is a retainer, is she not?" Ken asked.

"Yes, and she's my son's retainer as well," Sally said.

"Lanolin's very loyal and a good friend," Manik said. "I am honored to have her by my side, especially if I am to be King of Mobotropolis one day."

"Well Sally, I must say that despite your situation, you did a fine job raising your son," Ken said. "I remember when he was a little lad. Now he's a fine young man, and a soon to be excellent King."

"Heh, you need not praise me," Manik said as he rubbed his nose. "But it is very appreciated."

"Aw, how cute, you really remind me of your father," Cream said.

"...How?" Manik asked in worry.

"That little nose rub, it looks just how Sonic does when he's flattered," Cream said.

"Ugh," Manik placed his hand down. "I am not my father, I'm still here with my mother after all. I would never dream of leaving her side."

Sally placed her hand to her mouth as her eyes watered in happiness, "My little boy..."

"Aw, you and your mother must be so close," Undina said.

"Well...yeah, of course, she is my mother," Manik bashfully admitted. "I love her."

"Manik...!" Sally pulled her son into a hug. "You're such a sweetheart!"

"Ugh, mom! Not in front of Royalty!" Manik pleaded.

Sally pulled away, somewhat embarrassed herself, "Right sorry. You're a growing boy, I should respect that." She then left a kiss on his forehead. "I love you too though."

Manik grew more embarrassed, especially with Undina aweing at the sight.

"You are a natural as a mother," Ken said. "You did an exceptional job raising your son."

"Thanks, but I can't attribute that to only me," Sally said. "All of my friends helped in some way. Nicole especially helped the most."

"Well Manik is my nephew, so of course I'd help with raising him," Nicole said.

"Regardless, he's a fine young man," Ken said. "I think Mobotropolis has a bright future with him as its ruler."

"Of course," Manik confidently gestured to himself. "If anyone can handle being King, it's me."

"That looks like what Sonic would do as well," Undina said.

"Could you please stop comparing me to my father!" Manik demanded. "I owe all my positive attributes to my mother. Not just her, but others like my Aunt Nicole here, and my retainer Lanolin."

"Sonic seems to be a sore topic for you, understandable I suppose," Ken said, the King suddenly looking concerned. "I take it this means you and he are currently at odds?"

"Not quite, even though we split, I'm still kind of close to him," Sally said. "I'm good friends with his wife at least."

"You are?" Ken asked.

"Obviously Sally is still close with Sonic and Amy," Cream said as she gestured to Sonia. "Why else would their daughter be here?"

"Oh yes, that is kind of curious," Ken said.

"Sonia's here because she likes visiting me," Sally said. "And I love having her around, she's like the daughter I never had."

Sonia ran over and jumped into Sally's arms while giving her a big hug, "Sally and I are pretty tight. And I can verify that my mom loves Sally. What's not to love about her? She's a beautiful Queen who does everything she can for her subjects."

"There's still love between Sally, Sonic and Amy," Cream said. "In fact Sonic is out looking for Doctor Eggman right now with my husband Tails, and a handful of our friends and some Freedom Fighters."

"He is!?" Ken asked. "That's great, so Sonic is still working with The Freedom Fighters!"

"Sort of," Sally said. "Sonic is not obligated to help me, he's just doing it out of his own kindness. Same with Amy and Tails."

"Ah, I see," Ken said. "Well I am very happy to hear that. It's good to keep someone like Sonic close, he is quite the remarkable fellow. Same with that girl Amy. I remember the first time I saw her fight, I did not know she had it in her."

"Amy's often underestimated, a mistake I once made myself," Sally said. "But she is a strong fighter with a stronger sense of justice, and the most loving person you could meet. Traits she passed on to her adorable daughter here."

"Let it be known that the Queen of Mobotropolis considers me adorable," Sonia said. "It might as well be an official law."

"What an ego," Manik commented.

"Hm? Sorry Manik, would you rather flex for everyone instead?" Sonia teased.

"Hey don't be jealous because I'm a Prince," Manik said. "You're just the Prince's little sister."

"Which technically makes me a Princess," Sonia said.

"No it doesn't!" Manik replied. "Our father had a baby with a commoner, and that baby was you. Meanwhile my mother is an actual Queen."

"Well daddy was a King," Sonia said.

"He lost that right when he left my mother," Manik said.

"Okay, enough," Sally said. "Sonia can call herself Princess if she wants. She is one in my eyes after all."

"You heard it from the Queen, folks," Sonia leaned up to kiss Sally on the cheek. "This pretty lady knows who the best Princess is!"

Ken couldn't help but smirk at this display. Sally seemed so natural as a mother, even to a child that wasn't her own.

"I gotta say Sally, it's great that you love this girl like you do," Undina said. "I guess you really aren't bitter about the divorce."

"Right, of course I'm not," Sally insisted. "I have Sonia, so it's all okay in the end."

"Exactly, now no more asking Sally about that, it's a touchy topic," Sonia said.

"I suppose it is," Ken said. "But I must know. In the seven years you and Sonic have split up, have you truly not yet remarried?"

"I haven't," Sally confirmed. "I'm still single."

"I'm surprised, you are, if I may be so blunt, a very attractive woman," Ken said.

"Oh...thanks," a flustered Sally said.

"A girl like you could have any guy she wants," Undina said.

"I wholeheartedly concur," Li Moon said.

"Of course, she's Queen Sally," Sonia said. "She's the most beautiful woman on Mobius."

"Only until you grow up," Sally said as she hugged Sonia tighter.

"Sally's beauty knows no bounds," Jewel said. "But unfortunately, she has yet to seek a new husband."

"I don't think I need one, I'm fine as I am," Sally said. "Besides, I have my son to think about. I can't just marry whoever."

"Huh?" Manik turned to his mother as thoughts went through his head. "She's worried about remarrying because of me? Or is that an excuse?"

"Maybe you just need to meet the right person?" Li Moon suggested.

"I suppose so, but until then, I think I'll be fine," Sally said.

"Pardon me," Geoffrey interjected. "I understand why three of you are here, but what about you, the one who calls herself Li Moon?"

"She's a Chiefess too," Cream said. "She leads Stormtop Village."

"Well to my knowledge, that village is located within The Dragon Kingdom," Geoffrey said. "We already have the King, why do we need a second representative?"

"There's a perfectly valid reason that Li Moon is with me," Ken said. "She is-"

"His most trusted advisor," Li Moon finished, confusing Ken. "King Monkey Khan is an idol to his people. It is my duty to ensure he helps his nation thrive, and come home safe and sound."

"By that logic, would it not make more sense for him to bring bodyguards?" Geoffrey asked.

"Jian did wish to come, but I thought it wiser for her to stay back home and keep my throne guarded," Ken explained.

"Ah yes, your home's Freedom Fighters," Geoffrey said.

"Freedom Fighters?" Sonia asked. "There's more?"

"Sally's influence motivated many to fight for their homes," Lupe said. "There are many Freedom Fighter Groups around Mobius, including the ones in Ken's Kingdom."

"There's also the Desert Raiders in Shamir Village," Undina said.

"As well as the Downunda Freedom Fighters," Li Moon said.

"Wow, so many Freedom Fighter groups!" Sonia said in excitement. "I have to meet them! Tell me, which way to Shamir!?"

"Whoa there," Sally said, keeping the girl detained. "I understand your excitement, but dial it it back. I'll invite them over one day, don't just go running off by yourself."

"I won't be by myself, I can ask mom and dad to take me," Sonia said.

"Actually, I don't think it would be a good idea for your father to take you to Freedom Fighter groups," Sally said.

"He isn't fond of any group after all," Jewel said.

"Jewel!" Cream scolded.

"What? It's true," Jewel said. "Sonic doesn't care for The Freedom Fighters, that's why he left."

"Sonic was never a Freedom Fighter in the first place," Cream insisted. "Anything he did to help them was because he wanted to."

"Wait, I was under the impression that Sonic was always aligned with the Knothole Freedom Fighters?" Undina said.

"Sonic doesn't align himself with anyone," Cream said. "He will work with you, but he's not aligned. It's kind of like how some of those heroes from Earth help us, but they're not Freedom Fighters."

"I remember those Earthlings," Undina said. "How are they going to react to the divorce?"

"They already know," Sally said.

"Huh!?" Undina asked. "You told them but not us!?"

"I didn't tell them, Amy did," Sally said. "She's close friends with Spider-Man and she invited him to her wedding."

"How come I didn't get a wedding invite?" Undina wondered. "That is quite bothering."

"Amy wanted a smaller wedding," Cream said. "She only invited close friends, which included Spider-Man."

"What about The Fantastic Four?" Ken asked. "They're close with Mobotropolis, the leader frequently visits this world for research."

"Oh yes, Professor Richards is fascinated with The Chaos Emeralds," Sally said. "They're aware of the divorce, and they handled it well."

"Johnathan Storm pitied you quite a bit, he never quite forgave Amy for stealing Sonic from you," Jewel said.

"...Jewel, are you doing this on purpose!?" Cream asked, worrying the Beetle. "I'll admit that Johnny's being immature about the divorce though, I don't appreciate the terrible things he and his wife said about Amy."

"Johnathan Storm is the pinnacle of drama after all, so it is of no surprise," Geoffrey said.

"You're one to talk," Cream said. "Also, aren't you supposed to be doing something yourself?"

"Watch your tone with me," Geoffrey warned.

"Let us not fight," Ken said. "I merely came to speak with Sally about an important matter."

"Oh yes, um, is everything alright?" Sally asked.

"I wish I could say it is, but I fear that there may be trouble," Ken said. "My Kingdom is under the threat of destruction. I hate to ask, but I may need your help."

"Of course, I'd be glad to," Sally said as she gestured the others to follow. "Why don't you all come with me?"

"Queen Sally, need I remind you that we have troubles of our own?" Geoffrey asked.

"I can't ignore someone who needs my help," Sally said.

"But you are Queen, your responsibility is to not only Mobotropolis, but all of Mobius!" Geoffrey said. "In the end, our Kingdom is the highest one among all the others."

"No one Kingdom takes priority over others," Sally said. "If Ken needs my help, then it's my duty to help him, just as he would with me."

"Perhaps it might be best if I explained it to him," Li Moon said. "In fact, I would like to request an audience with the council."

"You cannot be serious," Geoffrey said.

"Geoffrey, honor her request," Sally said. "That's an order."

"...Fine," Geoffrey said.

"Lupe, Undina, it might be best if you go find Antoine D'Coolette and Bunnie Rabbot," Li Moon said. "Inform them as well as they will more than likely be involved."

"Actually, Bunnie is not here," Jewel said. "She went with Sonic to find Robotnik. But Antoine is close by."

"Very well," Li Moon turned to Ken. "You will have to speak with Sally alone."

"Just us?" Ken asked. "Sounds reasonable."

"Yes...very reasonable," Sally said as she nervously brushed her hair back behind her ear. "Let's go Ken."

Sally and Ken left to find someplace private to talk while Manik suspiciously rubbed his chin. Sonia looked a bit curious herself, the girl exchanging a quick glance with her brother before the two secretly followed.

"Jewel, perhaps you and I should have a talk as well," Cream said, leading the beetle away. "Now."

"Uh, sure, okay," Jewel said as she followed Cream.

"I do hope Sonic is doing well," Lupe commented as she and everyone else left.

At Eggman's base, Sonic is seen clashing with Scourge, the two throwing strikes at each other, clashing their arms as they struggled to gain the upperhand.

"That the best you'se got, Sonic!?" Scourge went for a kick that Sonic leapt away from, and countered into a spindash.

Scourge was quick to return the spindash, the two clashing for a second before breaking apart and colliding with several homing attacks against one another.

Tails flew in to help Sonic, but narrowly avoided a water attack from below, "Huh?" He saw Kit going for some waterwhips that Tails was quick to dodge, as the fox flew in to kick Kit away.

"Got ya, Fox!" Surge dashed in to attack, but Mina blocked the strike and kicked Surge away.

"I won't let you hurt Tails!" Mina dashed in and landed a punch on Surge, to which the Tenrec delivered a powerful uppercut that knocked Mina to the ground.

"Move it, poser!" Surge turned to Tails, but took a kick herself that sent her flying.

Meanwhile Bunnie was colliding against Metal Sonic, the two having a rematch from the day prior. Much as Bunnie tried, Metal was proving too much for her. Fortunately Amy managed to whack the metal being away.

"Thanks Amy," Bunnie said.

"My pleasure," Amy said, then noticed Metal focusing his attention on her. "Back up again? I don't care if you call yourself Sonic, you'll never be my Sonic you scrap heap!"

Sage materialized beside Metal, using her abilities to give him an added boost of rage, "Be warned Amy Rose, my brother will not simply kidnap you this time around."

"Pfft, he got lucky once and has been taking losses since," Amy boasted. "He should be more worried about me."

"As should you, little girl," Bunnie said as she aimed her arm cannon.

"Fearing you is illogical," Sage said as she turned to Metal Sonic. "Eliminate them."

Metal dashed at Amy, the girl charging up and clashing against her metallic foe, generating a shockwave that was felt all around.

"Heh, looks like Amy's going all out," Knuckles bragged, then found himself blocking a strike from Zavok.

"You would be wise to focus on the here and now," Zavok said as he and Knuckles traded blows while the rest of the Deadly Six took on the team of The Chaotix as well as Mighty and Ray.

"Knuckles dear, do you need help?" Rouge called.

"I'm fine!" Knuckles hit Zavok with an electric charged punch. "Go make sure everyone else is okay!"

"Okay," Rouge said.

Bokkun flew at Rouge, looking ready to attack, but one look from the bat halted him in his tracks, and the devious smirk that followed caused him to fly away. "Help!"

"All theses years and he's still a silly little boy," Rouge teased. She then narrowly dodged an attack from Rosy, the bat girl flying backwards and away from the hedgehog. "Oh my."

"A new friend to play with!" Rosy snarled with Alicia standing beside her.

"Try not to break her too much, I want my turn," Alicia said.

"No promises," Rosy said as she jumped up to attack Rouge.

"Naughty girls like you deserve a spanking," Rouge dodged the hammer again. "Mama Rouge will give you what you deserve."

Not too far off, Fang was nervously looking around, unsure of what to do. He looked to the left to spot Bean and Bark getting chased off by Tangle and Whisper. He looked to the right to see the S.S.S.S.S. Squad getting smacked around by Marine.

Suddenly Blaze landed in front of him, looking ready to fight, causing the Jerboa to quake even more. "W-Wait! Let's talk!"

"I will not fall for your ruse," Blaze said as she generated some fire.

"Fear not!" Sleet and Dingo rolled in, ready to fight. "I will ensure your safety, for we fight tog-"

Blaze knocked Sleet away, then landed a blow on Dingo that sent him flying as well.

"How useless..." Fang lamented, then felt more fear as Blaze focused on him. "Uh, I'll pay you!"

Before anything could happen, Trip ran over to grab the girl by her hands, seemingly struggling against her. "Blaze! It's me! Amy's friend!"

"Trip?" Blaze asked. "Wait, what are you doing?"

"Playing along," Trip said. "I know all about Fang's infiltration plan, so I'm helping him out."

"Huh?" Blaze asked.

Trip saw Bean flying overheard, courtesy of Tangle's tail punch. "Let's not talk now, don't wanna make it obvious we're on the same side."

"Wait...same side?" Blaze asked as Trip leapt away.

"You're going down Blaze!" Trip shouted, then winked at the cat. "Fang! Teach this kitty a lesson!"

"Uh...right," Fang aimed his gun at Blaze. He fired and 'missed' Blaze by a wide margin. "Oops, curse my aiming!"

"Aiming? He didn't even try to hit me," Blaze scratched her head in confusion. "Is he a spy?"

"Hey!" Mina angrily walked over toward Fang while holding a cork. "Did you shoot this at my head!?"

"...Maybe?" Fang asked. Mina stomped toward him again, to which he aimed his gun. "Back off or the next one goes in your eye!" Not caring, Mina continued to stomp. "I warned you!"

Fang fired once but Mina easily dodged to the side. He fired again, to which Mina dodged. He fired a third time, resulting in Mina ducking and punching Fang in the face, knocking him over.

"I think you're too old to be playing with toys," Mina taunted.

"Hey!" Surge stomped over. "I'm not done with you!"

Blaze dashed in and kicked Surge aside. "You'll be fighting me!"

"I got time for both of you, bitches!" Surge dashed in to attack once again.

"Fang?" Trip helped him up. "Are you alright?"

"Barely," Fang said.

"Geez, I know Mina needs to sell you being with Eggman, but she didn't have to punch you that hard," Trip said.

"Hey, Trip," Mina said, getting her attention. "Get away from him, he's bad news."

"It's fine Mina, no one's here to see us," Trip said. "You can drop the act."

"What act?" Mina asked, then was subsequently grabbed by Metal Sonic. "Hey! Put me down you metal asshole!"

"I'm coming Mina!" Bunnie flew after Metal with Amy right behind her.

"Amy!" Trip called, getting her friend's attention.

"Trip!" Amy ran over and hugged her friend. "I missed you so much!"

"Me too!" Trip pulled away a second. "Wow, what a fight. Did Queen Sally plan all this?"

"Not quite, this was more Sonic's idea," Amy said. "But Sally did give her input."

"Is she here too?" Trip asked.

"She wanted to come, but it was better she stayed with her son and my daughter back in the castle," Amy said. "You know, to keep them safe."

"Sounds like something Sally would do," Trip said.

Amy looked over and scowled at the sight of a certain someone, "Fang..."

"Oh, it's you," Fang said as he rubbed his chin.

"Tails tells me you two are dating," Amy said. "What's that about?"

"Right, I wanted to tell you sooner," Trip bashfully admitted. "We can talk later, after we defeat Eggman."

"Wait, what about Fang?" Amy asked. "Isn't he in league with Eggman?"

"No, he's an undercover Freedom Fighter, he was hired by Sally," Trip said.

"Huh? I never heard about this," Amy said.

"But that's what Fang told me," Trip turned to the Hunter. "Isn't that right?"

"Uh..." Fang wasn't sure how to reply. If he denied it, Trip would be mad. If he confirmed it, he'd have to deal with Amy, and Trip would find out regardless. "Well...sort of."

"Sort of, what?" Trip asked. "You're a secret Freedom Fighter, aren't you?"

"Well..." Fang nervously rubbed his head, causing more suspicion from Amy.

"Hey, spill the beans," Amy warned, earning more of a nervous reaction from Fang, and earning confusion from Trip.

"I...may have...exaggerated a few things," Fang said. The change in Trip's demeanor from confused to concern did not set well with him."Just a few."

"Fang, what are you-?" Suddenly a fireball nearly hit the girl. Fortunately Amy pulled her aside, looking to see where the attack came from.

Silver was doing battle with Naugus, the hedgehog deflecting the wizard's attacks effortlessly. "This feels strangely familiar somehow."

"Accursed hedgehog!" Naugus fired lightning as he called out to his ally. "Robotnik! Hurry up with this plan of yours!"

"Hey! Don't get distracted!" Silver blasted Naugus with his psychokinesis, sending him flying.

Sonic and Scourge kept fighting as well, with Scourge trying to one up Sonic, but got angrier in the process. "Will you give it up already!?" One mistake allowed Sonic to hit a powerful punch that sent Scourge flying.

"Yeah! Nice hit, Sonic!" A free Mina said as Bunnie kept Metal Sonic distracted after having saved Mina. "Do it for Fiona!"

"Don't you mention that bitch's name!" Scourge shouted, then took another punch from Sonic, the green hedgehog now looking up at Sonic in disbelief as his rival glared down in disappointment. "You think you're so much better than me!?" He went for a punch that Sonic blocked while still under the receiving end of his glare and then took a punch that knocked him back down.

"Geez..." Sonic said as he shook his head in shame. "I feel so sorry for you."

"Sorry!?" Scourge glared at Sonic. "You feel sorry for me!?" Scourge went for a punch that Sonic blocked, "I don't want, or need your fucking pity! I'm a King, dammit!"

"King? Been there, done that," Sonic said and delivered another punch across Scourge's jaw. "If you need a title to make you feel like something in life, then it just shows how truly empty your world view is."

"There you go again," Scourge said. "First you act like you're too cool to say anything, then when you do, you talk like some lame-ass fortune cookie."

Sonic scowled at his doppelganger, shaking his head in disappointment. "I wish things didn't have to be like this."

"Well tough shit!" Scourge dashed in for a punch that Sonic quickly blocked. Sonic then hit Scourge with an uppercut to knock him back.

Seconds later, Sonic heard someone dashing in and found himself avoiding a kick from Surge. "Nice of you to pop in."

"I'm taking you down myself!" Surge threw some punches that Sonic was quick to block.

As Scourge stood up, he found himself facing off against Blaze, "Well at least you're a visual step up from that blue jackass."

"Save it, I'm not into disgraceful Kings," Blaze said as she generated some fire.

Meanwhile some rumbling was heard near the base, everyone turning to see a giant machine rising up.

"What's going on!?" Tails asked.

Stepping into view was Eggman piloting his most recent creation, "Meet my newly made, Egg Wispon!"

"Egg Wispon?" Sonic asked.

"Lo and behold, Sonic!" Eggman said as he pressed a button. Within moments, several pods with various Wisps flew in and began inserting into the machine.

"Those are Wisps!" Bunnie shouted in worry.

"Ugh, that fiend!" Whisper took a quick look around. For the moment, the other villains had stopped fighting, likely themselves curious about Eggman. Wanting to take advantage, she gestured her Wispon to the machine. "Freedom Fighters! Prioritize Robotnik! Free the Wisps to depower his machine!"

"All systems engage! Attack!" Eggman fired a large Cyan Beam at the group, everyone being quick to dodge out of the way, including his allies.

"Hey watch it, Egghead!" Scourge shouted in annoyance.

"Yo Scourge, maybe we should bail!?" Surge said.

"What for!? I'm not done here!" Scourge shouted as he got ready to fight. "I still owe that Kitty a King-Sized beatdown!"

"Scourge, enough!" Alicia ordered. "Our goal was to distract The Freedom Fighters long enough for Robotnik to do what he must."

"I don't care about what Robotnik wants, I'm here to do what I want!" Scourge powered up. "And what I want to do is break some bones, so-HEY!"

Naugus used his magic to lift Scourge away, "How troublesome."

"Put me down you old geezer!" Scourge shouted as he struggled to break free.

Meanwhile Eggman continued his fight, using the Rocket Boost on his mech to dash in with a punch that struck Mighty across the field.

"Mighty!" Ray shouted in worry, then found himself trying to dodge a stomp from Eggman, but took a follow-up punch.

"We need a plan!" Whisper said. "Everyone, gather around while-"

Suddenly Sonic dashed in and rammed into Eggman, stumbling the machine back and landing to Spin-Dash into the mech's chest.

"Little blue rat!" Eggman slammed down on Sonic, to which he dodged out of the way and then hit another homing attack.

"Looks like Sonic's got this," Bunnie aimed her cannon. "But let's speed things up a little."

While Eggman focused on Sonic, he took some blasts from Bunnie's canon. Eggman retaliated by firing a laser at Bunnie.

"Watch out!" Tails managed to push Bunnie out the way but took a laser attack to his tails in the process.

"Tails!" Bunnie shouted in worry.

"Oooh, you just crossed a line, Egghead!" Mina dashed in to kick Eggman's machine, but she barely dented it as Eggman kicked her away.

"Mina!" Amy ran to pull the girl to safety. This left her open for a boost punch that she was fortunately quick to block. "That's cowardly, Eggman!"

"I do what I must!" Eggman said, then took a homing attack to his back, courtesy of Sonic.

"Your fight's with me!" Sonic shouted.

"What? Can't share with your precious wife!?" Eggman slammed a hammer down on Sonic, to which he backed off and hit the villain with a homing attack.

Suddenly Eggman was lifted off the ground courtesy of Silver's powers, "This should finish him!"

"Naugus!" Alicia ordered as Naugus blasted Silver.

"See, this is why we all need to be fighting still, even Eggman can't handle all of these chumps!" Scourge said.

"Silence, you'll just make things worse," Naugus said.

"The hell did you say!?" Scourge shouted as he continued trying to break free.

"Naugus may be trouble," Whisper noted. "Knuckles, can you-!?" Whisper turned to see Knuckles rushing Eggman. "Uh, Amy can you-!?" Amy used her hammer to whack the mech. "Rouge!" The bat girl was also fighting. "Son...I won't even bother," Whisper said, knowing that Sonic was already hitting several homing attacks to Eggman. "Tails, how about-!?"

Turned out that Tails was well ahead of Whisper as he pressed a button to summon his Tornados to this spot, aiming all of their weapons at Eggman's allies.

"Heads up, the runt's got a plan!" Surge warned.

"All cannons, open fire!" Tails blasted at Eggman's allies, save for Fang and Trip who were safely on the side while Naugus attempted to put up a shield.

"Foolish little brat!" Naugus tried blasting Tails from behind the barrier, but at this point, Blaze had sped in and used a fire slash attack on Naugus.

Scourge was freed and had gone for Blaze, "Got you now, kitty!"

He went for a punch that Blaze narrowly dodged, allowing a returning Silver to grab him with his psychic abilities, allowing Blaze to home in with a fire attack that sent Scourge flying.

"How worthless," Silver taunted.

Tails used his Tornados to keep the other villains at bay while Sonic and the others continued fighting Eggman, much to Whisper's amazement.

"Guess they don't need my guidance," Whisper noted, then focused on the Freedom Fighters. "Not all of them anyway." She got the attention of her allies. "Freedom Fighters! Let's keep up the momentum! Bunnie, help Sonic and his friends. While they keep Robotnik distracted, try to free the Wisps to disarm his machine!"

"You got it," Bunnie flew over to attack Eggman.

"Mina, go help Bunnie," Whisper ordered. "Tangle, you and I will assist Tails, Silver and Blaze in ensuring that Robotnik's allies do not cause any harm."

"Aye, Captain!" Tangle said while saluting.

"Let's do it, to it!" Mina dashed in to help attack Eggman while Tangle and Whisper did their part to help.

In his pod, Eggman continued to attack with beams from the Wisps, along with a few rocket powered punches.

"Father," Sage said, transmitting from outside, away from the fighting.

"Sage, perfect timing," Eggman said. "Our plan is compromised, but I thought ahead. I trust you know the back-up plan?"

"Of course, I am transmitting all data to your back-up base," Sage said. "But wouldn't it be easier to crush Sonic here and now?"

"My ultimate plan isn't ready," Eggman said. "Besides, it'd be dull to do it now, I want to savor my victory. It's been years after all. Years of fighting about to reach it's long awaited climax."

"As you wish father," Sage said. She then contacted one of her brothers. "Metal, Father's plan is in motion, but we must ensure Sonic's friends are distracted."

Metal replied with a beeping noise that Sage took as an affirmative as he fired some missiles at Sonic's friends.

Sleet pressed a button that transformed Dingo into a Dinosaur creature, "Crush those fools!"

Dingo slammed his foot down on the Hero Group, though Silver wasted no time grabbing Dingo with his powers and lifted him in the air before angrily throwing him against a rocky cliff.

"Wow Silver, you're gotten stronger," Tangle said. "Have you been working out?"

"Of course, what do you think I do in my spare time?" Silver asked as he used more of his powers to keep the villains at bay.

"Lousy hedgehog," Sleet pulled out a rifle. "This should-"

Suddenly Whisper shot the weapon out of his hand, allowing Marine a free shot to blast Sleet with water.

Mighty had returned, looking ready for a fight, "I'm not letting Eggman get one over on me. I'm going to-"

Surge came to block Mighty's path, all the while grinning at the armadillo, "Hey there." She immediately threw a punch that Mighty blocked, fully extending her smile, "Nice reflexes. Can it stop me?"

"I can try!" Mighty threw a few punches at Surge, though he was blasted by Kit's water powers.

"You would dare step to Surge?" Kit taunted. "Pitiful."

"Back off!" Ray flew in to attack Kit, engaging in a fight with the Fennec.

Meanwhile Eggman continued going after Sonic and his friends, with Knuckles and Amy doing some damage to the legs of his machines via quick strikes.

"You won't get the better of me!" Eggman blasted some fire at the two, but they leapt away and gave Tails a chance to hit Eggman with some fake rings that damaged his mech, causing some of the Wisps to pop out.

"Now's my chance!" Sonic used his speed to free a few of the Wisps and weaken Eggman's machine.

"I won't lose that Easily!" Eggman harnessed the power of the drill and tunneled into the ground.

"Clever trick, but that won't stop us!" Knuckles looked ready to tunnel after his foe.

"Hold it Knuckles," Sonic said. He took a moment to listen for Eggman's rumblings. It wasn't an easy task given some of the fighting in the background, but Sonic was able to focus enough to follow Eggman's movements through the ground.

Within seconds, he charged up and spindashed seemingly toward nothing, but as he got close, Eggman's machine had popped out. The scientist expected to ambush Sonic and his friends, but Sonic had beat him to the punch and plowed through his machine.

"No! My Wispon!" Eggman shouted.

"My turn!" Amy leapt up and smashed her hammer on the pod, stumbling Eggman around even more.

"You little rodents!" Eggman tried activating another Wisp power, but Knuckles flew over to punch more of them away, while Tails rammed into Eggman's machine, damaging it more. "This can't be!"

"Mah turn," Bunnie aimed her Cannon and fired to free one last Wisp, irritating the scientist. "Looks like yer all alone, Eggman!" As Eggman seemingly panted in worry, he secretly pulled out a button as he charged a laser up. "Now why don't you come on out and face yer defeat like a man! It'd sure save us all a lot of-"

"Watch out!" The moment Eggman pressed the button, Knuckles dashed in to move Bunnie out of the way as a Chaos Beam fired from Eggman's robot.

"Knuckles!" Rouge shouted in worry as he took a hit.

Eggman flew out of his pod, cackling triumphantly as he left his destroyed machine behind. "Fools! You really thought you had me, didn't you!?" Eggman pulled out a red Chaos Emerald. "But I always have a trick up my sleeve!"

"Eggman you jerk!" Tails generated his laser cannon and fired at Eggman, with a newly activated holo shield blocking the attacks.

"Minions! You know where to go!" Eggman shouted as he flew off. "Tu-tu-lu, Sonic Heroes!"

"Let us disperse!" Naugus created a smoke screen just as he teleported everyone away, the only one left behind in Eggman's group being Fang.

"H-hey! What about me!?" Fang shouted, then remembered Trip was by his side. "Uh, I mean...boy that was close!"

"Fang, what's going on!?" A now very unhappy looking Trip asked.

"Uh...Trip..." Fang nervously looked around, trying to avoid his girlfriend's angry glare. "I bet you're wondering what's actually going on."

"Yes, I'd like to know what's happening!" Trip said. "Are you really an undercover Freedom Fighter?"

"Uh..." Fang nervously glanced at the others, hoping one of them would take pity on him. So far none of them seemed interested in doing so.

"Well!?" Trip asked.

Knowing he was already in deep, he did not want to make things worse for himself. Reluctantly, Fang shook his head. "No, I'm not. I made that whole thing up."

"...Say that again?" Trip's voice was now almost monotone like as a quiet fury took hold of her demeanor.

"Listen, you gotta understand, we were tight on cash," Fang said, this only serving to make Trip even more unhappy. "Naturally I had to figure out some way to make some cash so-"

"FAAAAAANG!" Trip shouted loudly enough that fire emanated from her mouth, startling her boyfriend.

"Did anyone tell you how adorable you look when you're mad?" Fang asked, hoping to ease the tension.

"Fang, I can't believe you actually did something like this!" Trip shouted, her tone mixed with anger and sadness.

"Babe, I'm sorry, I know I shouldn't be working with Eggman, but I had no choice!" Fang said. "I did it for you! For us!"

"You had no choice!?" Trip angrily asked while getting in Fang's face. "There's always a choice! You went back to work with Eggman! The same one that nearly destroyed my home years ago! What's worse is that you lied to me about it!"

"If I told you, I was afraid you'd never forgive me," Fang said. "I know you hate Eggman so I had to keep it a secret."

"So you knew it would be a bad idea, yet instead of avoiding it, you go through with it and deceive me!?" Trip asked. "Fang! You told me you were going straight!"

"I tried, I really did!" Fang insisted. "It's hard finding work when you were once a crook!"

"Why didn't you just tell me then!?" Trip asked.

"I was afraid you would think I was useless," Fang replied as he took the girl by her hand. "Listen, being with you has been great, it's the only time I really felt happy. I didn't want to lose that! So I panicked and started working with Eggman again."

Trip furrowed her brow at Fang as she pulled her hand away. "I still can't believe you lied to me. That money you've been bringing back too, is it dirty? Is it stuff Eggman's been paying you!?"

"Not all of it..." Fang said. "I did go to Casino Park and-"

"You were gambling!?" Trip shouted, startling Fang more.

"No, of course not!" Fang insisted. "I...found it?"

Trip's eyes widened in fury once she pieced everything together. "You..."

"Hey come on, we can work this out, can't we?" Fang asked.

Trip shook her head as she turned away from her boyfriend, "I don't know Fang. I'm really hurt by what you did, and it's going to be hard for me to forgive you. Maybe you and I shouldn't have gotten together."

"Trip, wait!" Fang pleaded, the Hunter now feeling teary eyed. "Come on, just give me another chance."

"I did...and you let me down," Trip wiped some tears from her eyes as she marched toward The Freedom Fighters, who were all courteous enough to let the couple air out their grievances.

"Trip!" Amy walked over to her friend, hoping to check on her. "Hey, how are you feeling?"

"I don't know, Amy," Trip wiped her eyes some more as tears streamed down. "I really thought he changed."

"Aw, come here Trip," Amy brought her friend in for a comforting hug, hoping to soothe her. "Don't worry, I'm here."

Fang fell to his knees in disbelief, feeling genuine remorse for what happened. Whisper walked over as well, glancing down at the former Eggman crook. "While I pity your situation, I'm afraid I still need to place you under arrest. I'm going to need you to come with me back to Mobotropolis."

"...Yeah, whatever," Fang held his hands out. "You caught me."

Whisper placed some cuffs on Fang and led him toward her group. "Robotnik escaped, I don't think Sally will be pleased. But at the very least, we caught one of his men and destroyed his machine."

"We were also fully able to confirm who he's working with," Tangle said. "We knew about most of them of course, but the big surprise was seeing The Deadly Six."

"Almost surprised they're working with Eggman, especially considering their rocky past," Tails said. "Then again, Eggman even got Naugus on his side."

"Which means..." Knuckles limped over. "That we need to strike soon, and not let them..."

He then fell over, prompting Rouge to check up on him, "Hey, don't push yourself."

"I'm fine..." Knuckles insisted. "Nothing that won't heal."

"Ah really owe ya, Knuckles," Bunnie said as she helped him stand. "You saved mah fur."

"Of course, I'd never let an ally get hurt," Knuckles said.

"Ah still do feel terrible that you got injured saving me," Bunnie said.

"Which is why you never should have came," Silver chimed in, getting everyone's attention, and especially annoying Bunnie. "You Freedom Fighters are too much of a liability. I don't know why Sally insists on having you lot involved in every little thing."

"She's a Queen, hon," Bunnie said. "It's kind of her job. Besides like ah told ya, Sally didn't send me. Ah made the choice to come here on mah own."

"Well you made the wrong choice," Silver said.

"Silver, let it go," Blaze said.

"I'll let it go when they stop dragging everyone into their problems, especially my fiancé," Silver said as he glared at Bunnie. "Now why don't you find that useless Queen of yours and-"

"Silver!" Sonic shouted, getting the time traveler's attention. "Listen, regardless of how you feel about The Freedom Fighters, I really need you to lay off them already. Especially Bunnie."

"Are you kidding? These are the same Freedom Fighters that barely show you any respect," Silver said. "Ever since you and Sally split up, all I've heard out of most of them were petty insults about you and Amy! If it's not them, it's that moron from Earth who lights himself on fire."

"I'm aware of the gossip, but still, you gotta be better," Sonic said. "Besides, Bunnie doesn't gossip about me or my wife. She's my friend, and I can't say I appreciate you blaming her for what happened to Knuckles. She feels bad enough already, don't make it worse."

"Sonic..." Silver shook his head in confusion. "I don't get you. You should be angry. You know The Freedom Fighters are no good, you know Sally's no good. That's why you left her! What good has she ever done that makes you feel obligated to defend her!?"

"Silver..." Sonic leaned in to speak in a hushed tone to the time traveler, out of everyone's hearing range. "Maybe you forgot, but she's the mother of my son. Now, drop it already. If you don't have anything nice to say about Sally, then don't say anything at all."

Silver looked almost surprised by Sonic's choice of words, but agreed to not push the subject for now, "Alright fine. It's not worth my time anyway."

Confused as she was, Whisper did not wish to dawdle when work needed to be done, "With that settled, I need to bring Fang back to Mobotropolis."

"You go on, I'm going to look for Eggman," Sonic said..

"Same here," Silver said. "I'm not leaving until he's dealt with."

"I'll go too," Amy said.

"Actually Amy, I think you should take Trip home," Sonic said as he looked to the disappointed girl. "It looks like she's been through a lot."

"You could take her to Mobotropolis," Mina said.

"So Sally can recruit her?" Silver asked.

Mina furrowed her brow in annoyance, "Nooooo. Maybe seeing Amy's daughter will cheer her up."

"Plus, she probably shouldn't be alone right now," Sonic said. "She could use some company."

"That might work," Amy turned her attention to her friend. "What do you say Trip? Do you want to go to Mobotropolis?"

"Sure, that sounds good," Trip said.

"Just be careful," Silver said.

"She gets it, Silver," Amy said, the girl getting annoyed herself. "Remember, it's fine to have criticism, but sometimes you have to word it better, or nothing gets resolved."

"Seriously, what's with you anyway? You used to be such an adorable little Cinnamon Bun," Mina said. "That's what I heard at least."

"Huh!?" Silver asked in disbelief. "Who told you that!?"

"Sally, when she first met you, she thought you were a cute little guy," Mina said.

"Ugh, I knew she was being condescending!" Silver shouted, then took to the air. "This is ridiculous, I'm destroying Eggman, and his followers. Then hopefully, we'll have one less reason to come back to this world."

"Oh, so you don't want to come back and see your other friends?" Amy asked. "Or my daughter who thinks you're the coolest hedgehog aside from her father?"

For the first time, Silver started to feel a little remorseful of his words as he awkwardly rubbed his head, "You know, you could come see us. I think Sonia would like Blaze's castle much more than Sally."

"Sonia likes Blaze, and respects her," Amy said. "But, she loves Sally. If you try to come between that, she's going to hate you. If she doesn't already."

Once again, the guilt rushed through Silver, recalling how aggressive he was in the castle. Sonia was present, but in his anger, he forgot to consider how she might have felt seeing what she did. "I'll make things right."

"I hope so," Amy said. "You're a great guy Silver, don't let your anger define who you are."

"Of course..." Silver said. "Listen, I'm going to stop Eggman regardless, if at least to create a better world for you and your daughter. Anyone who wants to come is more than welcome to, just don't complicate things."

"I'm taking Trip to the castle," Amy said.

"I'll g-go with you," Ray said. "We need to give Whisper a l-lift."

"Good idea, you and Amy can bring Nack back to the castle," Mighty said.

"My name is Fang!" The Jerboa shouted. "Nack is a fake name I used!"

"Really? Gee next you're going to tell me you're not a weasel," Mighty said.

"I'm a Jerboa," Fang said.

"Wow, nothing but lies, this is why you have girl problems," Mighty said, much to Fang's annoyance. "Speaking of girls, is it me, or was that Tenrec cute?"

"You better not be talking about Surge," Whisper warned.

"Yeah, don't go for her, she's crazy," Mina said.

"I know, but she's still kind of cute," Mighty said.

Whisper grimaced at the thought of Mighty crushing on Surge, "Let's not waste time. Sonic, you can-" Sonic had already sped off, slightly irritating Whisper. "Guess I will need to get used to it."

"I'm going too," Silver sped off with Blaze and Marine right behind him.

"Race ya," Charmy sped after them with Mighty and Vector joining. Knuckles and Rouge had also left to join their friends, with Espio staying behind.

"Whisper, do you need me to go with you?" Espio asked.

"That's quite fine, I can manage," Whisper said.

"Yeah, she's got me by her side," Tangle insisted.

"Very well, I will see you at the castle," Espio dashed off.

"It's cute when he worries," Tangle glanced at her friend. "Right Whisper?"

"Tangle..." Whisper lowered her mask to hide her blush. "Bunnie, what will you do?"

"I'm going with Sonic, ah want Eggman dealt with too," Bunnie said as she activated her jet boots. "Y'all can get Fang back to Mobotropolis."

"Will do," Whisper said as Bunnie flew off.

"Whisper," Tails brought over his X-Tornado. "If you want, you can use my plane to take Fang back. Mina can fly you."

"Aren't you coming?" Mina asked.

"I'm going to help Sonic," Tails said.

Mina huffed in annoyance, "Oh fine, I guess I can fly Whisper back."

"Thanks, I can always trust you with my Tornado," Tails said.

Mina began blushing a bit as she confidently spoke up, "Well yeah, I'm the best co-pilot you have. You just leave it to me, Tailsy. I'll get Fang back to Mobotropolis and see him get what he deserves."

"You know I can hear you, right?" Fang asked.

"Can it, I still haven't forgotten that cork in my eye!" Mina warned.

"Alright, since Tangle is getting the last seat, that means me, Trip and Ray are on foot," Amy said. "Well Ray can fly."

"You can figure it out," Tails pressed a button to send the rest of his Tornados back home. "I'm off to help Sonic."

As Tails flew off, Whisper gestured to the X-Tornado. "Let's hurry." Everyone had boarded or prepared to run on their way back to Mobotropolis. She then grabbed a radio just as she was about to take off. "I'll contact Nicole, and let her know what happened."

Meanwhile in the crown city, Ken was talking to Sally while the two made themselves comfortable on her balcony.

"As of late, Robotnik has been stealing resources from anywhere he could," Ken said. "His forces have invaded my Kingdom on occasion, and I have spent the last few years teaming with the Four Kunoichi Brides to fend him off."

"Has it really been that bad?" Sally asked. "When I last visited, there was trouble but I thought it was swiftly dealt with?"

"We hoped so, in truth we did not wish to burden you with our problems," Ken said. "Plus, I know you usually have your own difficulties, so-"

"Ken, regardless of my troubles, you're a friend of mine," Sally said. "So I want to know if you're safe. If you had trouble, you could always reach out to me. I would have done what I could."

"I know that now," Ken said. "Funny, Li Moon has told me the same thing. I guess deep down it was a pride thing. I wanted to prove that I can protect my Kingdom without help. Plus I feared that if I came here asking for help, Sonic would have looked down on me. Though if I knew you two were divorced, I think I would have had less reservations."

"Sorry I never told you, it's just so humiliating to admit," Sally said. "How do you tell someone that you failed that badly as a wife?"

"Why did you two split up?" Ken asked.

"Sonic...he just wasn't happy," Sally sadly admitted. "So I let him go free. It hurt but it was better than seeing him be miserable. I couldn't handle the idea that I caused him so much pain. He's happier now at least, Amy treats him well and he loves her dearly."

"They have a wonderful daughter," Ken said.

"Yes, I love her so much..." Sally placed her hand to her heart. "Amy does her best to make me feel included, like I'm still part of this family. But, it might be better if they just forgot about me."

"Sally..." Ken gently rubbed her back. "You're a great woman, whatever troubles there were, I have no doubt that you weren't the cause. Sometimes things just don't work out, but you tried your best. The fact that you still allow Sonic and his family here speaks volumes of you. You do not have to love their daughter, but you do so anyway. And it's clear she loves you. You are in a better place than most."

"I hope so..." Sally said while discreetly wiping a tear from her eye. "Look, whatever troubles you're having, just let me help. Better yet, Sonic can help too. Despite what you said earlier, I don't think Sonic would rub it in your face. He's cocky sometimes, but he's got a good heart. Without him, this world would have fallen long ago."

"I admire your confidence," Ken said. "And know that this is a mutual feeling. If you need me for anything, be it an invading tyrant, or just someone to vent your feelings to, I'm here."

"Thank you..." Sally then leaned in to hug Ken, taking the King by surprise. He gently returned the hug, thoughts racing through his mind. "Sally, I can feel your pain. How I wish I had known sooner."

After a minute, Sally pulled away, feeling a little embarrassed. "Sorry if that was too intimate."

"No, it's fine, what's a hug between friends?" Ken asked.

"Right, friends," Sally said while blushing. "So um...I saw that you were traveling with Lupe and Undina. That must be fun."

"Yes, they were having similar troubles," Ken explained.

"I will be honored to help those two as well, they are good friends after all," Sally said. "My Freedom Fighters are at your service."

"Right, now I suppose I should speak with them," Ken said. "Perhaps starting with that Sheep girl, she is your protégé, correct?"

"Was...I had to demote her," Sally admitted.

"Demote her?" Ken asked.

"She performed less than capable on a recent mission, and it could have resulted in major casualties," Sally said. "I had to demote her. It hurt because, truth be told, Lanolin is precious to me. But, I can't overlook her mistakes. Right now, my new right hand is Whisper the Wolf."

"Whisper?" Ken asked, the King suddenly feeling awkward. "I think I know that one."

"She's from The Dragon Kingdom, isn't she?" Sally asked.

"Yes, she was born from the Raiju Clan," Ken said. "I also recall that she had given birth to the daughter of Espio the Chameleon."

"Oh yes...that was a taboo thing, wasn't it?" Sally asked.

"I'm afraid so, her clan and Espio's have not gotten along," Ken said. "Espio is essentially a prince to those people, so it's already bad enough that he had a child despite not being married. To have one with a member of a rival clan, well...it's fortunate that Salma was not completely rejected."

"This whole ordeal has been hard on them both," Sally said. "I doubt getting married would fix it."

"It is unlikely," Ken said. "Neither side would allow it, and even if they were to marry in Mobotropolis, it is still not by their laws."

"Can't you do something for them?" Sally asked. "Whisper deserves to be around her daughter more. It pains her so much that she can't be there."

"It's not that simple," Ken said. "As King, I could give the order, but to mess with tradition would be unwise. It may cause more trouble down the line. It's sad to say, but I cannot govern every little detail of my home."

"Ugh...I hate this," Sally said.

"As do I, but the sad truth is that she is not allowed within the Shinobi Clan," Ken said. "And, I am aware that even the Raiju Clan does not want her."

"She's fine with that, she's never liked The Bride of the Conquering Storm," Sally said. "Hopefully once Salma is done with her training, she can come live here."

"Perhaps," Ken said as he continued to look out to the distance. "Do you ever wonder what it would be like if we could live out there rather than in a castle wall?"

"Sometimes," Sally admitted. "But, my duty is here. So long as Mobotropolis needs its Queen, I shall be here until the day my son becomes King."

"What will you do when that day comes?" Ken asked.

"...I have never thought about it," Sally said. "My whole life, I was either The Crown Princess or the Queen. I never thought much about life afterwards. I guess the best thing I can do is be there for my son."

Ken felt a sense of pity for Sally, sensing some uncertainty in her words. He then placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "You'll figure it out someday."

Sally nodded her head in agreement, "I hope so."

"By the way, I found this," Ken pulled out a familiar Green gem.

"Is that a Chaos Emerald?" Sally asked. "I've been looking for them, where did you find this?"

"Near the outskirts of my Kingdom, about a few weeks ago," Ken said. "I know you like to keep these safely guarded."

"Right now I'm doing a poor job," Sally said. "Presently I only have three others. The Yellow, The Blue, and The Purple."

"Well now you have another to add to your collection," Ken said as he presented it to her. "I can't use these, but I know Sonic can."

"Yes, he and his friends have found incredible use for them over the years," Sally said as she held the Emerald. "I hoped that one day, I could access its power. I guess I'm just not worthy."

"Don't give up hope," Ken said. "If anyone is smart enough to figure it out, it's you."

Sally giggled for a moment while lightly brushing her hair back, "Thanks."

"Sally?" Came Nicole's voice, getting the Queen's attention.

"Oh Nicole, is there something you need?" Sally asked.

"I just got a radio call from Whisper, she's on her way back," Nicole said.

"Oh...that's great," Sally said. "I hope it's something good."

"Let's go meet with her," Ken said.

Time passed by, with Li Moon having explained her situation to The Council, as well as both Lupe and Undina had explained their story to Antoine.

Sonia and Manik waited in the Throne Room, the boy looking very confused as he sat on his mother's throne while Sonia sat beside him on the ground.

"What's it like sitting on the Throne?" Sonia asked.

"It feels big," Manik said, then glanced at a mural featuring his mother's coronation. "I wonder what it was like when my mother became Queen? Was she scared? Or ready?"

"Maybe both?" Sonia said. "It's hard to say. Sally's usually very confident."

"Yeah, she's really strong..." Manik said. "Sometimes though, I wonder if she's lonely."

"Lonely?" Sonia asked.

"Well she's single, and I think it bothers her," Manik said. "Sometimes I wonder if she wants a boyfriend."

"Oh, yeah...I see," Sonia said, the girl feeling slightly awkward. "I guess it makes sense to wonder. Why, do you think she should have one?"

"I don't know," Manik said. "The idea of having a stepfather feels strange to me."

"Did you think she would never remarry?" Sonia asked.

"It's not that," Manik said. "Honestly, I never thought too much about her remarrying."

"Well, she's really pretty, and I do wish she had someone to appreciate how pretty she is," Sonia said. "Maybe she should get married. Though, I kind of wish daddy remarried her while still being married to mom."

"Well my mother doesn't want that," Manik said.

"I know, but it'd be fun," Sonia said. "I already see Sally as a second mother, it might as well be official."

"No way, that's so unnatural," Manik said. "If my mother gets married, it's not going to be her sharing a husband."

"You never know," Sonia said.

"What is zis about Sally getting a husband?" Came Antoine's voice as he walked over with Nicole, Melody, Li Moon and Tekno.

"Hi," Sonia waved.

"Hey kid, how's it going?" Tekno asked.

"Fine, how's it going with you?" Sonia asked.

"Great, I'm working on something awesome," Tekno said. "I'm taking a short break to grab something to drink, but then I'm heading right back to work."

"To Antoine's question, it sounded like you two were discussing Sally getting married," Nicole said.

"Yeah, I asked Manik how he would feel if she found a new husband," Sonia explained.

"And I said that I don't know how I would feel," Manik explained. "I can't imagine my mother remarrying."

"You never know," Li Moon said.

"Yeah, she deserves to be happy with someone," Melody said.

"I will admit, I have thought about it myself," Nicole said. "I try to scope out guys that I think would be fitting for Sally, but I can't think of anyone suitable enough."

"She is ze Queen after all," Antoine said.

"Maybe she needs a wife?" Tekno suggested.

"A wife!?" Manik asked. "My mother does not swing that way."

"That's true, if she did, I feel like one of the girls here would have hooked up with her," Nicole said.

"None of ze girls here are interested in anything like that," Antoine said. "Are they?"

"Technically no, but the way they talk to Sally at times strikes me as odd," Nicole said.

"Hey, if I'm being honest, I would totally take Sally on a date," Tekno admitted. "She's got the looks and the personality I respect in a woman."

"Well you'd need to get in line," Nicole said. "The way Fiona and Lanolin talk about her, it's like they have their own crush."

"Me? A crush on Sally?" Fiona teased as she walked over. "How scandalous."

"Oh, you're still here," Nicole said.

"Well Sally did give me permission to live at the castle," Fiona said. "And look, I know I messed up, but I won't do it again. I know talk is cheap, which is why I am going to prove my loyalty."

"I hope so," Nicole said.

"Fiona, do you have a crush on my mother?" Manik asked.

"Now, now, because I tease her, doesn't mean I like her that way," Fiona said. "But I will admit, she's pretty sexy."

Manik grimaced at the response, "Never say that again."

"Yes, Please be mindful of how you speak about Sally," Nicole scolded.

"And perhaps be mindful of what we say around a girl Sonia's age," Antoine said. "Melody too."

"It's fine, I kind of know about this stuff, mom jokes about marrying Sally too," Melody said. "I would hate it though since it'd make Manik my stepbrother, and it'd be too hard to...well, you know...if I wanted to be more than a friend with him."

Melody was blushing a bit, as was Manik, something Nicole found adorable. "Don't worry, your mom won't be marrying Mina. But I do agree, we should dial back this kind of talk. Especially for Sonia's sake."

"Not the first time I heard some stuff like this from Fiona," Sonia said. "She and Johnny Storm are the reason I know the F Word."

This earned Fiona some glares, to which she brushed it off, "Hey, I'm only fifty percent of the reason. Don't fucking pin this solely on me."

Nicole grumbled in annoyance," Dammit, Fiona..."

"My, such words," Li Moon said.

"Hey you're around big girls," Fiona said.

"Fiona, just dial it back, and seriously be mindful of how you address Sally," Nicole said.

"Don't worry, I won't say anything too scandalous about your precious big sis," Fiona said. "Sally's not interested in girls anyway, honestly I think the only one here who swings that way is Tekno."

"Wow, way to point the finger at me," Tekno said.

"I learn from the best," Fiona replied. "I kid though. Anyway I came to find Lanolin, is she here?"

"Here I am," Lanolin said. "I came by because I heard Whisper was returning, I was curious to see how her first mission as leader went."

"Hey Lanolin, I hear you have a crush on Sally," Sonia teased.

"How dare you! My love for Sally is purely platonic," Lanolin said. "Not once have I dreamt about marrying her. Not even the time when she told me how much she loved the way I style my wool. Or the time she told me I had a cute smile. Or the time I walked in on her while she was bathing in the hot tub."

"You walked in while she was bathing?" Tekno asked. "Like, were you both naked?"

"Yes, but that's fine, we're Mobians. We're not like humans who have something to hide," Lanolin said.

"Does that apply to other furry creatures like us?" Fiona asked. "Like, Ratchet? Or anyone from Star Fox? Because I won't lie, I'm curious about Fox McCloud."

"I heard a rumor once that Tails saw Krystal that way," Tekno said.

"Can we move on please?" Nicole asked. "And Lanolin, we get the point."

"Good...because I only love Sally as a friend," Lanolin said.

"Yeah, yeah," Nicole replied.

"So...what are the odds that Sally would marry someone like Monkey Khan?" Sonia asked.

This got a curious reaction from everyone present, even Manik looked uncertain about the idea.

"Well, Ken and Sally are close, but it wouldn't work," Nicole said. "Ken has his own Kingdom to manage, and it's on the other side of Mobius."

"Oui, he barely sees her," Antoine said.

"But, let's be honest, Sally does seem to like being around him," Fiona said. "I've been with Sally to The Dragon Kingdom, and she borderline flirts with Ken, and he does with her."

"I always saw it as playful," Nicole said.

"There's nothing playful about it," Tekno said. "I've seen it with my own eyes too. In fact, ask Dulcy the next time you see her, she'll confirm it."

"I will admit, Ken's really handsome," Lanolin said. "I can see Sally wanting to date him."

"I suppose, but I don't think it would work," Nicole said.

"Have faith in Ken," Li Moon said, then turned to the chipmunk boy. "And Prince Manik, please keep an open mind."

"Not likely, I really don't think my mother needs to remarry," Manik said.

"I don't know about this either," Sonia said. "Would Ken leave his Kingdom to live in Mobotropolis?"

"Perhaps, or Sally just may live with Ken in The Dragon Kingdom," Li Moon said.

"No way! Sally is NOT moving all the way to the other side of the world!" Sonia said. "I need her here where I can visit her whenever I want and give her lots of hugs and kisses. If that Monkey even thinks of taking my dear, sweet Sally away from me, there will be hell to pay!"

"Dial it back, Sonia," Melody said. "Nothing's official yet."

"Also, if my mother does leave, who will rule Mobotropolis?" Manik asked.

"Uh...you?" Tekno replied.

"...That is tempting," Manik said. "Still, I don't think I want my mother moving to the other side of the world."

"Who says I am?" Sally asked as she arrived with Ken by her side.

"Sally!" Sonia leapt into her arms and kissed her on the cheek. "Promise me you will never move to the other side of the world, regardless of who you marry!"

"M-marry!?" Sally asked while blushing. "Who says I'm getting married? I'm not even dating anyone!"

"It's just some playful banter," Li Moon said. "Did you have a nice chat with Ken?"

"Yes, it sounds like The Dragon Kingdom needs our help," Sally said.

"The Dragon Kingdom? Queen Sally, remember that we have our own problems," Lanolin turned to Ken. "No offense to you, Your Majesty, but we're in the middle of a bad situation, and Sally's attention should not be divided."

"Lanolin, I'm aware of our problems, but we don't turn away those who need us," Sally said. "As a Freedom Fighter, I expect you to hold that mindset dearly."

"...Right, sorry," Lanolin said.

"Hey, she's not exactly wrong, besides if you tried helping The Dragon Kingdom, then you might need to deal with Geoffrey's bitching," Fiona said.

"I can handle Geoffrey," Sally said.

"Sally, we do need to consider our resources," Nicole said. "I want to help Ken too but Robotnik is causing us trouble."

"He's hurting Ken too," Sally said. "It's a common goal."

"How do you even plan to help?" Fiona asked. "Furthermore, can Ken's army even do much?"

"I have the Four Brides," Ken said. "You can work with them and-"

"First, I'm not doing that, there's no way I'm working with that skank who calls herself 'Conquering Storm'," Fiona said. "After the way she treated Lightning, and the way she led him on, there's no way I trust that bitch."

"I assure you that she has calmed herself in recent years," Ken said.

"Yeah, well when she gets on her knees and apologizes to Lightning for what she did, then I'll consider working with her," Fiona said. "Lightning's a nice guy, he didn't deserve that crap."

"Are you talking about Lightning Lynx?" Tekno asked. "He's a member of The Destructix, how is he nice?"

"Oh sure, label my boys why don't you?" Fiona said.

"Do you even see The Destructix these days?" Tekno asked.

"They keep in touch," Fiona said. "Lightning, Simian, Frog and Predator are my friends, and they stuck by me through tough times."

"Well I hope for your sake that they're not in league with Robotnik," Nicole said.

"Hey! Robotnik means Scourge, and they would never work for that asshole again!" Fiona shouted. "Seriously, don't talk shit about my boys."

"Okay, settle down," Sally said. "Look, I'll consider what you all had to say, but if Ken really needs my help, I can't turn him away."

"If you say so, Queen Sally," Antoine said, the man also not looking eager for this.

"Ken, a word?" Li Moon led her King away while Sally spoke to the others.

"Also, I get you're all worried, but you need to carry yourselves better than this," Sally said. "Being so quick to dismiss Ken like that was not okay. Remember he helped out big time when The Iron Queen tried taking over Mobotropolis."

"That's true, if it wasn't for him, I'd be that deranged woman's personal guard," Nicole said.

"We owe a lot to Ken for helping our Kingdom through one of it's darkest days," Sally said.

"Sally, that's nice, but keep in mind that happened because you were away from the throne," Fiona said. "All because Ken was whining to you about how The Freedom Fighters handle business."

"Wait, what exactly happened?" Sonia asked.

"It's a long story, it involves Dark Gaia and our world being in turmoil," Sally said.

"Also Sonic turned into a scary monster," Tekno said.

Sonia's pupils shrank in fear, "He did what!?"

"Tekno!" Sally scolded. She then soothed Sonia by rubbing her back. "Ignore her, in the end Sonic was still himself. Even if some of us took longer to realize than others."

"He came back to complain later during the Phantom Ruby incident," Fiona added.

"Fiona, give it a rest already," Sally said. "You're really pushing your luck right now!"

At this point, Fiona started to feel a bit of regret as she awkwardly turned away, "Sorry S-Queen Sally."

Worried for Fiona, Antoine was quick to change the subject, "How long before Whisper arrives?"

"Nicole?" Sally said as the Lynx began checking.

"ETA, five minutes," Nicole said.

"Come on," Sally said, leading the others outside, save for Fiona, which Antoine noticed.

"Fiona?"

"You guys go ahead, I gotta check with Rotor on something," Fiona said as she quickly left.

"Poor girl," Antoine said as he left.

Meanwhile Ken was speaking with Li Moon about a matter of importance.

"Looks like Sally may be having trouble committing to this plan," Li Moon said.

"Well, she does want to help," Ken said. "I don't think we have anything to worry about."

"There's plenty of reason to worry, our Kingdom is facing danger," Li Moon said. "You must ensure that Sally helps us."

"I will," Ken said. "But, it's important to understand why she is hesitant."

"...Hey, when Sally was with you, how did she react?" Li Moon asked.

"Pardon?" Ken said.

"Did Sally...you know...react a certain way to you?" Li Moon asked.

"A certain way?" Ken replied.

At this point, Li Moon started losing her patience, "Did she flirt with you!?"

"Oh...well, she did seem rather happy to see me," Ken said.

"Good, use that to your advantage," Li Moon said.

Ken's eyes widened in disbelief, "You can't be serious, first Lupe, then Undina, now Sally? I can't keep flirting with these women Li Moon!"

"I know it's shady, and I'm sorry I'm asking this of you," Li Moon said. "Believe me, it's not easy asking your one true love to act a certain way."

"It's not easy for me either," Ken said as he gently rubbed Li Moon's chin. "I don't feel right expressing my love to anyone except for you."

"But, we need to think of our Kingdom," Li Moon said as she held Ken's hand against her face. "So many need our help. I know it's cruel for Sally, but it's crueler to let our people down. We'll make it up to her, as well as Lupe and Undina. Once our Kingdom is saved, we will do what we can for their lands of rule."

"...I suppose so," Ken said.

"Just be mindful, do what you must but try not to go overboard," Li Moon said. "Who knows though, Sally could have an open mind. Which, I admit, is ironic."

"How so?" Ken asked.

"Her son is against the idea of Sally sharing a husband with Amy Rose," Li Moon said. "Yet here I am, asking my lover to flirt with, and possibly fully seduce Sally. Imagine if she does want to share a lover after all?"

"That would be quite unusual," Ken admitted. "Let's just keep things simple."

"Right, now let's make our way outside," Li Moon said, bringing Ken along with her.

A few minutes later, Whisper had arrived in the X-Tornado, leaping out with Mina, Tangle and a still bound Fang while Amy, Trip and Ray pulled up.

"Whisper, you're back!" Sally said as she ran to the wolf. "Oh, and it looks like you have company."

"Hi Queen Sally!" Trip greeted.

"Trip!" Sally went to give the girl a hug, "I heard you were captured, I'm glad you're safe."

"Thanks to Amy, as well as her friends and your Freedom Fighters," Trip said as she pulled away. "Wow, you're looking as pretty as ever."

"Oh, thanks dear," Sally bashfully said. "I'm happy to see you too. Will you be staying long?"

"That depends, are you looking for new allies?" Trip asked. "I want to help you defeat Eggman."

"Oh, sure, that's fine," Sally said. "It wouldn't be the first time you helped The Freedom Fighters."

"Alright, then let's do it, to it!" Trip said. "I will fight alongside you!"

"Aw, you're already in the spirit," Sally said.

"Trip!" Sonia jumped into Trip's arms for a hug.

"Sonia! I'm so happy to see you!" Trip took a moment to take in the sight of this child. "You've gotten so big!"

"With that comes power," Sonia said as she flexed her arm.

"So cute!" Trip hugged Sonia tighter. "You're the spitting image of your mother! Especially in those clothes, they're the same ones she wore back when I first met her."

"Yeah, just like daddy, Uncles Tails and Uncle Knuckles," Sonia said.

Sally turned her attention to Fang, "This is quite a capture."

"Hey Princess..." Fang said.

"It's Queen, Fang," Sally corrected.

"He was the only one we managed to capture," Whisper said. "The others regretfully got away."

"That's fine, but it sounds like you ran into the enemy," Sally said.

"We did," Whisper explained. "Everyone we suspected of being in Robotnik's army was present. In addition, we discovered his partnership with The Deadly Six."

"The Deadly Six?" Sally asked. "Wait, what are the Zeti doing working with Robotnik? I thought they hated him?"

"Naugus hates Robotnik, yet they cooperate," Whisper said.

"Right...and I suppose Scourge and Surge aren't exactly that loyal themselves," Sally said.

"We fought all of them, but they escaped just as we destroyed Eggman's new machine," Amy said.

"He was using Wisps for battle!" Tangle said. "Against their will too!"

"Ugh, I really wish he'd leave those cute little creatures alone," Sally said.

"Fear not, we rescued them," Whisper said.

"That's good," Sally said. "Alright, let's get Fang prosecuted and...oh wait, this isn't everyone, is it?"

"Sonic and anyone not here went after Eggman," Amy said.

"We just came to make sure you were doing alright," Ray said.

"I'm fine" Sally said. "By the way, we have company."

Sally gestured to Ken, Li Moon, Lupe and Undina as they made their presence known.

"King Monkey Khan?" Whisper asked in disbelief.

"Whisper..." Ken bowed.

"Chiefess Lupe!" Ray said.

"Greetings to you," Lupe said.

"Wow! Undina!" Amy greeted.

"Amy!" Undina put her umbrella down and pulled Amy into a hug. "I missed you so much!"

"Same here!" Amy said.

"Oh, and Trip's here!?" Undina ran to hug her as well. "How's my favorite fire breather!?"

"Fine, how's my underwater girl?" Trip asked.

"Amazing!" Undina said.

"I'm glad you're all reunited, but let's go inside," Sally said. "We can talk in there."

"Sally, wait," Tangle got her attention. "What's happening, why is Ken here?"

"I'll explain in a minute," Sally said.

"But..." Tangle whispered to her. "How will Whisper feel? Ken is King of the Dragon Kingdom, and given the situation with her daughter..."

"Don't worry, I have it under control," Sally said as she led Tangle inside. "Come on."

Cream seemed very satisfied with the reunions as she stood by Sonia and Manik. "I love it when there's happy reunions. It's a sight I'm all too used to, especially with traveling friends."

"How nice," Manik said.

"That reminds me Sonia, your mother had quite a happy reunion herself after she returned from her martial arts tournament to Chris's house," Cream said.

"Oooh, tell me!" Sonia said.

"Well, we had actually been in Station Square for a a couple of weeks," Cream said. "In that time-"

"Wait, what about Ryo's search?" Sonia asked.

"He continued it, but I'll get to that later," Cream said. "Just remember that Tails's plane is really fast."

Several years into the past. Sonic's friends had to remain in Station Square for the most part, as they were slowly but surely gathering The Chaos Emeralds.

"So...these things have unlimited power?" Chris asked as he held the Blue one.

"Exactly," Tails said as he held the Purple one. "We don't know where they came from, but they've helped us out a few times in the past."

"Pretty neat," Bunnie said as she held the Cyan one.

"These Emeralds caused the Chaos Control that stranded us on Earth," Tails explained as he glanced at the Yellow Emerald in the possession of Beat. "Fortunately it looks like we only have three more left to find."

"These things look so dope," Beat said just before placing his down. "So, once you get the Emeralds, that's it? You go home?"

"Yeah, I guess," Tails said.

"Bummer, I'm gonna miss you guys once you leave," Beat said.

"Yeah, we'll miss Earth too," Tails said. "People like you Beat, and you Chris. And Ryo, and Nozomi, and Johnny, and Rainbow Dash, and Peter."

"But we do need to get home," Bunnie said.

"I know," Tails replied.

"Besides, yer a smart little fellow," Bunnie said as she rubbed Tails's head. "An adventurer like you don't seem like the type to let distance stop him from seeing his friends."

"Maybe you can invent a portal of some sorts?" Chris suggested.

"That would be a good idea," Tails said. "Eggman managed to pull off something like that when going to and from The ARK, so I can definitely find a way."

"Sally's Castle is rumored to have something like that," Bunnie said. "She said something about a special Ring that can do anything."

"That sounds amazing," Tails said.

"Ahem..." Mr. Tanaka interrupted. "You have visitors."

"Who?" Chris asked.

Amy stepped into the living room, "I'm back!"

"Amy!" Tails flew over to hug the girl. "I'm so happy to see you again!"

"Me too Tails," Amy hugged back.

"Yo!" Jacky greeted as he walked in with Akira, Sarah and Pai.

"Pai Chan?" Chris said.

"Chris Thorndyke, I haven't seen you since your mother's last movie," Pai said.

"I didn't expect to see all of you," Chris said, then walked over to the young hedgehog. "Hi, I'm Chris Thorndyke. You must be Amy Rose."

"The one and only," Amy said with a courtesy. "Thanks for housing my friends over the last few weeks."

"Amy, we almost have all the Chaos Emeralds collected," Tails looked to where they were. "See, they're...huh?"

Everyone looked to see that Emerl had shown up and picked them up, absorbing the gems into his body, taking everyone by surprise.

"Uh...is that supposed to happen?" Jacky asked.

"Emerl!" Tails flew over to the robot. "Emerl, what did you...?"

"Forgive me, the Emeralds called to me," Emerl explained.

"...Did you just talk, in a full sentence?" Tails asked.

"Memory...rebooting," Emerl said. "No, still not complete."

"Well dang, what now?" Bunnie asked. "How do we get home?"

"I'm not sure," Tails said. "I bet I can figure this out though."

"Amy, don't you have something to show Tails?" Akira asked.

"Oh right, hey Tails," Amy pulled out a Green Emerald. "Ta-dah!"

"Whoa, you found one!?" Tails asked. "Where!?"

"During my travels," Amy said. "It really came in handy when Dural showed up."

"Who's Dural?" Tails asked.

"An old headache," Jacky said. "Don't worry, she's been dealt with for now."

"So...what now?" Amy asked. "Do I give Emerl this Emerald?"

"Not yet, I want to run some tests," Tails said. "Hopefully he's capable of using Chaos Control."

"Well, it worked for Sonic," Beat said. "Didn't it?"

"Yeah, and Shadow too," Tails said, unaware of the brief reaction the name caused out of Emerl. "Let's hope for the best."

"So, where is everyone else?" Amy asked.

"Out by the pool," Chris said. "I was going to join, but I saw that Tails was working on something."

"Might be tough fer me to swim with metal arms and legs," Bunnie said.

"...I don't know why I'm not in the pool, I should head inside," Beat said as he left. "Last one in's a rotten egg!"

"Come on, Sonic will want to hear about your tournament," Tails said. "Who won anyway?"

"A guy named Kage-Maru," Amy said.

"By luck," Jacky said.

"Let it be in the past, Jacky," Sarah scolded.

Outside at the pool, Cream was seen swimming with Nozomi assisting her, Ryo was sitting by the poolside and looking over some notes, and feeling a bit jetlagged from having been flown over after briefly returning to Japan too long ago. Gum was sitting beside Ryo, taking in some sun rays.

Sonic was resting on top of a nearby tree while Sally, Antoine and Rotor stayed at the shallow end.

Vanilla laid on a chair, while glancing at a nearby hunk of a man who looked really great in his bathing suit just as he ran to the diving board.

"Cannon Ball!" Came the voice of Johnny Storm as he dived into the pool, causing a splash.

"Johnathan!" Sally scolded, wiping her hair.

"Chill Sal," Rainbow Dash said as Johnny swam back up. "It's all for fun."

"Make your fun quieter," Sally scolded.

"Lame," Johnny left the pool. "I'm going to grab a drink, where's the cooler?"

"Hi! I'm back!" Amy greeted.

"Sup, now where are the drinks?" Johnny brushed off.

No one else did however.

"Amy!" Cream flew out to hug the girl, "You're finally back!"

"Oh, good," Sally ran over to the girl. "You're safe."

"Yeah, I am," Amy said as everyone else went to greet her. "I have so many stories for all of you."

"Amy?" Sonic said, getting her attention.

"Sonic!" Amy rushed over and pulled Sonic into a hug. "I missed you! Did you miss me!? I bet you did!"

"Easy Amy!" Sonic awkwardly pulled away. "It's good to see you though."

"You too, my dear Sonic," Amy said with a wink.

"Lame," Rainbow Dash commented.

"Hey Amy, why don't you go change and meet us in the pool?" Nozomi suggested. "We can talk about your travels there."

"I want to hear about all of you, especially you Ryo," Amy said, getting the boy's attention. "I hope you haven't been getting into any trouble."

"Uh, nothing major," Ryo admitted.

"...I got my eye on you," Amy said as she left to change.

"Too bad Peter's not here," Tails said. "He would have liked to see Amy too."

"Same, but he's busy right now," Sally said. "I think he went to New York to visit Stark Industries, maybe we can contact it and-"

"Contacting, Stark Industries," Nicole said, then generated a hologram of Tony Stark talking to a man with a green vest.

"Look Chris, I am too," Tony said. "I already spoke with Daisy and she's relaying the Raccoon City problem to whomever she can."

"Eek!" Sally did her best to disconnected.

"I know Mr. Stark," Chris Redfield said. "But this incident is too big and...hey is someone trying to contact you?"

"Huh?" Tony turned around just as Sally disconnected the message. "...I swear if it's that stupid woodchuck again..."

Back in Station Square, an embarrassed Sally noticed all the strange looks she was getting from the others.

"Did you...bug Tony Stark's office?" Rainbow Dash asked.

Fortunately, Sally didn't have to explain, as a loud shriek was heard. "Johnny! I'm changing!"

Suddenly the young hero was sent flying into the pool, causing another splash, this time involuntary. He swam to the surface, looking really annoyed, "That stupid girl!"

"Did you walk in on her changing?" Chris asked.

"Not on purpose, I was looking for the cooler," Johnny said. "Why'd she freak out anyway!?"

"Dude, girls tend to hate when you see them change," Beat said.

"First off, she's twelve, she's got nothing to show," Johnny said. "Second, even if she did, she's twelve! Third, she's a Mobian!"

"What does that have to do with anything?" Nozomi asked.

"You serious!? Last I checked, Mobians don't need clothes!" Johnny said. "Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, they run around without clothes, yet they don't complain!"

"Well she is a girl," Ryo said.

"What the fuck does that matter!?" Johnny shouted, prompting Vanilla to cover Cream's ears, and Sally to leap up and cover Chris's. "If the boys don't show their junk, a girl would have an easier time hiding hers!"

"Johnny..." Ryo said.

"Sally doesn't wear clothes and she's fine, because she's not hiding anything!" Johnny said as he gestured to the Princess.

"Johnny, just drop it." Nozomi said.

"It's a stupid double standard," Johnny said as he climbed out the pool. "I can understand if it were Rouge, but Amy? Bogus!"

"You know, that does remind me," Ryo said. "How come Amy, Cream and Sally normally wear clothes, yet the boys don't? Not counting Antoine, but he only wears a jacket, no pants."

"Clothes are purely optional in my world, most girls just prefer to wear them for fashion purposes," Sally said. "For a time, I even went without my blue vest, and it was normal. I also wasn't the only girl to do so."

"Yeah, I remember this girl fox girl who also didn't wear anything other than shoes," Sonic said.

"Right, it's normal," Sally said. "Amy overreacted. Johnny too, so they're equally to blame."

"Alright, thanks for the explanation," Ryo said.

Amy came out, dressed and ready to go. "So...who wants to hear my story?"

"First, I gotta tell everyone what happened with Emerl," Tails said.

As all this happened, Eggman was on his way to the Final Emerald, "The White Emerald, this will be my second, but Sonic and his friends may have found the others. Looks like I'm going to have to figure out a plan."

With that, Eggman began his latest scheme.