Sonic X: Gotta Go Fast Again
Chapter 7: Metro Mayhem
Before we delve into this chapter, I just want to make a quick post regarding the website.
I understand that many people are frustrated about the ongoing email alert system. Believe me, I agree that it's a pain in the butt. I understand that stuff like this happens. I actually work in website design as part of my job. But I also see some people are concerned that this is a sign the site will be shut down.
Firstly, I've heard this rumor many, many times, at least once a year, and it has yet to actually come true. I've been here since 2013, and the website itself has been here since '98. There's no factual evidence that the website is in danger of shutting down. So, unless there's actually an official announcement to say so, it's nothing more than speculation. Trust in facts, not guesses; they pave the path to certainty.
Secondly, I've seen as well as spoken to a few people who have said they are leaving for FanFiction and moving to AO3. That's fair enough, to each their own. But I want to make it clear that while I do cross-post to AO3 as well, I am in no way ever going to abandon FanFiction. As long as it's here, I'm here.
Lastly, just some advice for everyone. Try to focus on the creative aspect of writing fanfiction rather than worrying about the platform itself. Remember why you enjoy writing and sharing your stories, and let that passion drive you forward. Regardless of the status of FFN, you should always back up your work and keep it in more than one place.
With that said, let's get on with the chapter!
Returning to the workshop proved to be a challenge for Sonic without his shoes. The absence of his trusty footwear made quick turns and sudden stops difficult, especially with just socks on and the remnants of the earlier rain making the journey more precarious. Nevertheless, Sonic and Knuckles managed to make their way back to the workshop, albeit with a few slips and slides along the way.
As they entered, Amy's overprotective instincts kicked in immediately. The moment she laid eyes on the state of Sonic and Knuckles, she swiftly shifted into motherly mode. Sonic soon found himself seated on the couch, his bare feet resting in a basin of warm water. Knuckles, on the other hand, was perched on the armchair, letting out light grunts as Amy carefully applied soothing cream to his injured arms.
"Knuckles, keep still!" Amy instructed, her gaze focused on his arms. Concern etched on her face, she remarked, "You're lucky your arms didn't fall off."
Sonic reclined on the couch, the warmth of the water basin soothing his feet. A refreshing sigh escaped him, and he couldn't help but relax. It was a welcome relief after the discomfort he endured from running in the rain with just socks on earlier. The absence of his trusty footwear made each stride feel like a battle, as the jagged edges of pebbles and debris seemed to pierce through the thin layer of his socks. By the time they reached the workshop, Sonic's feet felt tender and swollen, every movement sending jolts of discomfort coursing through his entire body. The relief of finally being able to soak his feet in warm water was a welcome reprieve from the relentless torment they had endured.
The sensation was heightened when he felt something soft being draped over him. Glancing over, he found Tails standing nearby, gently laying a blanket over Sonic's back. Tails seemed to have improved since Sonic had seen him earlier in the day. Although traces of sadness still lingered on his facial features, there was a subtle hint of the old Tails shining through. The exchange of smiles between Sonic and Tails conveyed a silent understanding, a familiarity forged through countless adventures.
Meanwhile, Amy finished tending to Knuckles, directing her attention to Sonic. "Eggman really blew up his own base?" she inquired, her expression a mix of curiosity and concern.
Sonic nodded, his eyes reflecting the lingering chaos of their recent adventure. "Yep."
Tails, having moved to the coffee table where Amy had thoughtfully prepared warm beverages, chimed in, "And I thought Eggman wasn't one to waste resources." He claimed a cup for himself, taking a sip before adding, "That must mean he's set up somewhere else."
"Knowing Egghead," Sonic remarked with a wry grin. "He'll be up in the sky or overseas. Somewhere that's tough for us to reach him."
Knuckles, ever the proactive one, clenched his fists and threw himself onto his feet. "I don't care where he is. I'll smash him to pieces," he declared, a fiery determination blazing in his eyes as he slammed his fists together.
Amy, however, wasn't one to let unrestrained aggression take over. She approached Knuckles and, with a stern yet caring demeanor, forced him to sit back. "You're not smashing anything to pieces. Now, relax," she insisted, her tone brooking no argument.
Everyone in the room knew better than to challenge Amy's firm resolve, and Knuckles, giving a sheepish look, reluctantly obeyed, settling back into the comfort of the armchair.
As the sun emerged, casting its golden glow on the landscape and initiating the drying process after the earlier rain, the group at the workshop understood that this brief respite was just a fleeting moment of peace. Knuckles took the initiative to share the events of the morning with the others, recounting Metal Sonic's theft of a shard from the Master Emerald and the subsequent chase that led to his reunion with Sonic. Tails, ever the analytical mind, absorbed every detail, mentally piecing together the information.
Tails muttered to himself, repeating Metal Sonic's cryptic words, "Master Emerald data." Suddenly, his eyes lit up with realization, and he turned to Knuckles with newfound understanding. "That's it! He must have copied the signature readings from the Master Emerald! And that means-"
Amy, always quick to connect the dots, finished Tails' thought. "He'll be looking for the Chaos Emeralds!"
Knuckles, though not well-versed in the intricacies of technology, couldn't deny the logical conclusion. His isolated life hadn't afforded him much knowledge in the realm of gadgets, a fact highlighted by his confession that he barely knew how to use a light switch. Yet, the gravity of the situation wasn't lost on him.
"But why take the shard? The Master Emerald is weeks away from healing itself. It's useless, even if you had all the pieces," Knuckles questioned, voicing the confusion that lingered in his mind.
Tails, with narrowed eyes and a determined expression, provided a potential answer. "Not unless you're Eggman."
All eyes turned expectantly to Tails as he prepared to elaborate on his theory about Metal Sonic's actions. With a sense of determination, Tails delved into his explanation, revealing the intricacies of the situation.
"Well," Tails began, gesturing animatedly as he spoke. "Considering the advanced technology Metal Sonic has, he could have scanned the shard to obtain the Master Emerald's unique energy signature. The Chaos Emeralds also emit a similar energy signature, and if he combines that with the shard's data, he could pinpoint the locations of the Chaos Emeralds. Essentially, he's creating a tracker to locate the other pieces of the Master Emerald. And with that shard, Eggman can use it to make devices to do the same thing."
Sonic responded with a slow whistle. "And just when things were getting quiet around here."
Knuckles, fueled by his characteristic impatience, couldn't sit idly by. In a display of frustration, he grabbed a nearby pillow and hurled it at Sonic. "Enough of the jokes. I'm not sitting here while that freak has the shard."
Sonic raised his eyebrows as he crossed his arms, offering a playful retort. "Say, what about the other shards? Did you just leave them there?"
Knuckles' eyes widened comically at the realization that he might have overlooked the other shards. The thought that Metal Sonic could have returned to Angel Island to collect the remaining pieces hit him with a mix of surprise and concern. The urgency of the situation became even more apparent, and the group faced the realization that they needed to act swiftly to prevent further complications.
The group found themselves in unanimous agreement. The urgency of the situation demanded that they set out to locate the remaining Chaos Emeralds before Metal Sonic and Eggman could achieve their nefarious goals. Sonic, ever the carefree and confident leader, leaned back on the couch, ticking off the locations on his fingers.
"I got one of them stashed here. Rouge's got the other one. That makes five of them left," Sonic declared, his mind already racing with the possibilities of their next moves.
Amy, taking a casual sip of her tea before posing her question, voiced a concern that lingered in the air. "Are the other five even on the planet? After what happened with the Meterax, they could be anywhere across the galaxy."
Tails, caught off guard by the mention of potential space travel, winced involuntarily. Memories of past interstellar adventures and the loss of Cosmo flashed before his eyes. The prospect of venturing into space again wasn't one he wanted to entertain, as he had found solace and purpose on this planet. Unfortunately, his subtle change in demeanor went unnoticed by the others. Knuckles, seeking to redirect the conversation, spoke up to rally everyone's attention.
"We already got two. The other ones gotta be here," Knuckles asserted, injecting a note of determination into the discussion.
Sonic, flashing a confident grin, echoed the sentiment. "Well, no time like the present!" With that, he retrieved his feet from the warm water, grabbing a nearby towel to dry them.
Tails ascended the stairs, making his way to the sanctuary of his bedroom. The room had become a refuge for his solitude since the loss of Cosmo. He reached under his bed, retrieving a carefully concealed metal container. Placing it on the bed, he opened it, revealing the radiant blue glow of the Chaos Emerald. Its light momentarily dazzled his eyes, but he squinted through it, cradling the powerful gem in his hand.
The Chaos Emerald had been a gift from Sonic when he had left it outside Tails' room on the day they returned from space, and Tails had taken it with him, placing it in this specially designed metal container for safekeeping. As he held it, the light of the emerald danced across his face. Tails cast a glance at a framed photo on his bedside table—a picture of Cosmo, a reminder of the friend he had lost. The longing for her companionship tugged at his heart, but duty called. The others needed him.
Downstairs, Amy happily skipped into the living room, having taken it upon herself to fetch Sonic a fresh pair of socks and sneakers from his bedroom. Her nurturing instincts kicked in as she presented them to Sonic.
"Here you go, Sonic! Nice and clean," she chirped with a smile.
Sonic returned the smile. "Thanks, Amy." He slipped on the fresh socks, followed by his trusty sneakers. The snug fit instantly brought a sense of familiarity and completeness. Sonic felt a bit exposed without his iconic shoes, and he had every intention of making Eggman pay for blowing up the previous pair.
As the departure neared, the team made their final preparations. With only one Chaos Emerald in hand, it was paramount to strategize their search for the remaining ones. Tails, entrusted with the emerald's power, would pilot the X Tornado, its capabilities vastly enhanced with the gem's energy. Sonic, on the other hand, planned to rendezvous with Rouge to secure another emerald. It was a task better suited to him, given Rouge's persuasive tendencies that could easily sway Knuckles.
Tails stole a moment to check on the seed he had planted in the pot, ensuring its safety before departure. Satisfied, he joined the others just outside the garage, where the X Tornado awaited, a stalwart ally in their quest.
"We'll start in Mystic Ruins and work our way north," Tails declared, his voice tinged with determination.
Knuckles, ever eager for action, interjected with his own determination. "I'm going with you," he proclaimed, his fist raised in solidarity. "Gives me a chance to smash that Metal Sonic up if he shows up."
Sonic couldn't help but grin at Knuckles' bravado. He knew that beneath the tough exterior lay a heart of gold, fiercely protective of his friends. Sonic turned, only to find Amy approaching with unwavering resolve.
"I'm coming with you, Sonic," she declared, her tone leaving no room for argument.
Sonic returned her determined gaze with a knowing wink, silently acknowledging her steadfast commitment. With their resolve fortified and their team united, they embarked on their mission, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
In the cockpit of the X Tornado, Tails expertly manipulated the controls, eliciting hums and whirs from the aircraft's machinery. The Chaos Emerald, nestled securely in a specially designed compartment, emitted a subtle glow, imbuing the plane with a newfound energy. Knuckles, seated in the back, secured his seat belt, a temporary concession to his still-recovering arms.
Outside, Sonic and Amy stood on the runway, offering their support with thumbs up and waves. The X Tornado roared to life, hurtling down the runway before ascending into the sky, leaving behind a powerful gust of wind that ruffled Sonic and Amy's quills. Sonic, ready for the next leg of their adventure, turned to Amy with a mischievous grin.
"Up for a little adventure?" Sonic proposed, his eyes glinting with excitement.
Amy, equally enthusiastic, flashed a grin in return. "Let's do it—whoa!"
Before she could react, Sonic swiftly dashed towards her, scooping her up in his arms. Amy's yelp of surprise quickly turned into gleeful excitement as Sonic whisked her away into the nearby forest. Despite his remarkable speed, Sonic maintained a gentle hold on her. One arm cradled her shoulders, while the other supported her just below the knees. Sonic glanced down at her with a playful wink.
"Don't worry, Amy. I gotcha," he assured her.
Amy, enveloped in the exhilarating moment, squeaked with excitement and recalled the first time Sonic had ever said those words to her. In a playful return of sentiments, she couldn't help but exclaim, "My hero!"
As Sonic raced through the dense woods, a vibrant blur of azure, the sensation was nothing short of exhilarating. The air whizzed past him, carrying with it the earthy fragrance of the forest. The symphony of rustling leaves, chirping birds, and the occasional scurrying of woodland creatures serenaded his high-speed journey. Sonic's movements were a dance of precision, an intricate choreography of twists and turns through the foliage. Every step was a reflection to his mastery, a ballet of speed that left only a streak of vibrant blue in its wake.
Amy, cradled in Sonic's arms, was experiencing a fan girl's dream come true. The world around her blurred as Sonic navigated effortlessly through the forest. The sheer speed and grace with which he moved stirred a mix of awe and excitement within her. She marveled at the sensation of being held by the legendary hedgehog, her hero, and secretly hoped for more moments like this.
Her curiosity bubbled up amidst the joyous ride, and she couldn't resist asking, "Are we going to Rouge's place in Metro Square?"
Sonic, his grin visible even at his incredible speed, nodded in response. "I got a hunch she'll be at home. You know Rouge, wouldn't let something like rain ruin her makeup."
Amy chuckled at the thought of Rouge's unwavering dedication to her appearance, even in the face of impending chaos. As Sonic continued to carry them through the forest, Amy relished the thrill of the moment, cherishing the adventure with her hero.
Metro Square, while not as bustling or expansive as the Station Square in Chris' World, exuded a distinct charm with its small-town feel. The urban landscape was dotted with quaint stores and modest buildings, presenting a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the grandeur of its counterpart. Sonic, being more inclined towards the freedom of nature, found the confined spaces of cities less appealing, but duty called, and he had to set aside personal preferences for the moment.
As Sonic gently set Amy down in the heart of Metro Square, the citizens around them continued with their daily routines. The townsfolk, though used to the occasional presence of the iconic blue hedgehog, couldn't help but sneak glances in their direction. Sonic's reputation for heroics had made him a beloved figure, and admiration followed him wherever he went.
Sonic, with a nonchalant hand on his hip, remarked, "Been a long time since I came here." Memories of past adventures and encounters in this world flashed through his mind.
Amy, looking around at the familiar but distinct surroundings, commented, "Kind of reminds you of Station Square, huh?" The mention of their adventures in the other world brought a bittersweet twinge to their thoughts. The friends they made, the challenges they faced—those memories lingered, casting a nostalgic shadow over their present reality.
Sonic, shaking off the nostalgic thoughts, adopted a determined mindset. Dwelling on the past wasn't his style; he preferred to focus on the present and the challenges it brought. And right now, the challenge was to find Rouge and retrieve the Chaos Emerald.
Amy, pointing towards a rather upscale building with multiple floors, questioned, "Is that her place?"
Following Amy's gaze, Sonic spotted the luxurious building. Knowing Rouge's penchant for the finer things in life, it seemed fitting that she would reside in a place that reflected her taste for luxury.
Sonic grinned confidently, confirming, "Yep, that's the place."
Amy, driven by urgency and excitement, dashed ahead before Sonic could utter a word, her determination evident in every stride. Sonic, amused by her eagerness, allowed her a head start before effortlessly catching up, his natural speed closing the gap between them in a matter of moments. As they approached the building, it became apparent that gaining entry wouldn't be as simple as walking through an unlocked door. This wasn't an abandoned structure or one of Eggman's fortified bases; it was a residential building where people lived their everyday lives. Sonic and Amy shared an unspoken agreement: they wouldn't resort to force unless absolutely necessary.
Sonic, standing before the buzzer, tapped it with a sense of anticipation, his arms crossed and foot tapping impatiently. However, there was no response from inside the building. Sonic's brow furrowed in mild surprise as he muttered, "Huh. Guess she's not in."
Before Sonic could ponder the situation further, a sudden cacophony erupted from the top floor, echoing down the stairwell. The sound of commotion was unmistakable, a clear indication that something significant was happening upstairs. With the noise serving as a compelling reason to take more assertive action, Sonic wasted no time. He rolled into his signature ball form and propelled himself forward, using his momentum to smash through the downstairs door and burst into the apartment building.
Sonic sprinted up the stairs with the swiftness of a living blur, each step propelling him closer to Rouge's apartment. As he reached her door, he didn't waste a moment contemplating; instead, he swung it open with a determination that matched the urgency of the situation. Inside, chaos reigned. Furniture was strewn about, tossed carelessly like toys in the hands of a petulant child.
But amidst the chaos stood Metal Sonic. His metallic form gleamed in the dim light of the apartment, his optics flashing with a cold, calculated intensity. With one hand wrapped around Rouge's throat, he held her captive, his grip tightening with each passing moment.
His sensors finely attuned to his surroundings, Metal Sonic detected a subtle shift in the air. A faint sound, barely perceptible to human ears but crystal clear to his robotic sensors, signaled the arrival of an intruder.
Turning his head with mechanical precision, Metal Sonic's optics locked onto the figure of Sonic as he burst through the door. Metal Sonic's gaze narrowed as he observed Sonic's swift entrance, his processors calculating the potential threat level posed by the blue blur before him.
"Stay back," Metal Sonic commanded, his tone dripping with malice. "Or your friend dies."
Rouge, though struggling to speak through the constriction of Metal Sonic's grasp, managed to interject with a characteristic quip, her voice strained yet resilient amidst the perilous situation.
"Sonic... I don't think... your cousin's... kidding," she gasped, her words punctuated by labored breaths.
Sonic's expression hardened into a determined glare, his resolve unshaken by the threat before him. With a firm resolve, he squared his shoulders and met Metal Sonic's gaze head-on.
"Neither am I," Sonic retorted.
In an instant, Sonic lunged forward, propelled by a surge of adrenaline and determination. He tackled Metal Sonic, a collision that sent them crashing through the window, leaving the apartment in a chaotic aftermath.
Rouge collapsed to her knees, fingers clawing desperately at her constricted throat. The metallic grip around her felt suffocating, compressing her organs as if they were fragile petals. Gasping for air, she strained to lift her gaze, only to witness Amy's entrance into her apartment, her trusty hammer slung over her shoulder. Panic danced in Amy's eyes as they darted around the room.
"Where's Sonic?" Amy's voice trembled with urgency.
Rouge, her voice raspy and strained, pointed toward the shattered window. "Outside."
Amy let out a frustrated whine. "Oooh, I just got up here!"
Her determination overriding any sense of hesitation, Amy pivoted on her heel and bolted down the stairs, her resolve unwavering as she refused to let Sonic face Metal Sonic alone.
The wind roared past Sonic and Metal Sonic as they careened through the air, crashing out of Rouge's apartment and plummeting to the streets below. Citizens in their cars hastily swerved or slammed on their brakes to avoid colliding with the unexpected chaos. Sonic swiftly leaped to his feet, his posture low and determined, locking eyes with the gleaming optics of Metal Sonic. It was evident - a rematch was inevitable, and Sonic was resolute not to let history repeat itself.
A sly grin played on Sonic's lips as he remarked, "Wow, it's like looking in the world's ugliest mirror."
Scarlet sneakers barely grazed the pavement of the city's streets as Sonic charged forward, initiating the skirmish. His legs became a blur of red, the red and white shoes moving so rapidly that they melded into a singular streak of color, propelling him at near the speed of sound. The clash between the two adversaries transformed the city streets into a frenetic battleground, their movements akin to ping-pong balls on acid
Sonic and Metal Sonic clashed with a familiarity born from their previous encounters. Sonic, drawing from the lessons of their initial skirmish, understood that Metal Sonic not only matched his speed but possessed the resilience to endure powerful blows. Winning this fight required a strategic approach, a departure from Sonic's usual reliance on sheer speed.
Metal Sonic's optics tracked Sonic's every move, his jetpack roaring behind him, a whirling force of incredible speed. Sonic, casting a quick glance over his shoulder, noted Metal Sonic hot on his heels, prompting a confident grin to stretch across his face.
"He can't hit what he can't see," Sonic quipped.
With a sudden skid that emitted a light squeak from the protesting friction against his sneakers, Sonic came to a halt. Swiftly pivoting, he spun around and deftly swiped under Metal Sonic's incoming fist. The metallic adversary's punch instead collided with the wall, creating a resonating impact. Seizing the opportunity, Sonic darted off in another direction, Metal Sonic promptly giving chase in relentless pursuit
Sonic executed a dramatic skid to a sudden halt right beside a perplexed hot dog vendor. In a swift and seemingly random move, he snatched two bottles, one of mustard and the other of ketchup, giving the vendor a playful wink to convey that he was merely borrowing the condiments. Turning towards Metal Sonic, Sonic clenched the makeshift weapons in his gloved hands. The mustard and ketchup bottles were now impromptu projectiles in his arsenal.
With a squeeze, Sonic aimed the bottles directly at Metal Sonic's optics, releasing a burst of condiments that splattered across his metallic face. The unexpected assault blinded Metal Sonic, causing him to grind to a halt. Capitalizing on this opening, Sonic leaped forward, his leg extended in a powerful kick that sent Metal Sonic crashing into a nearby wall.
Refusing to grant his metallic adversary a moment of respite, Sonic rolled into his signature ball form, delivering a relentless barrage of blows. Each impact reverberated through the metallic frame of Metal Sonic, and Sonic showed no signs of letting up. However, Metal Sonic, seemingly unfazed by the assault, extended his arms and managed to catch the spinning Sonic. Despite the strain evident in his trembling arms, Metal Sonic held Sonic at bay, resisting the onslaught.
The cacophony of crumbling bricks and cascading dust filled the air as Metal Sonic emerged from the wreckage, his cold optics fixed unwaveringly upon Sonic. The blue hedgehog, disoriented and thrown aside by the robotic adversary, rose from the ground. Sonic's trademark grin faded, replaced by a steely determination as he watched Metal Sonic curl into a menacing ball, mirroring his own iconic technique.
Without a moment's hesitation, Metal Sonic shot forward, a metallic blur hurtling towards Sonic. Stunned and unable to muster a defense, Sonic found himself propelled backward, crashing through the window of a quaint cafe with an explosive shatter. The unexpected intrusion sent shockwaves through the crowded establishment, patrons recoiling as Sonic plowed through tables and chairs like a tempest.
Shaking off the disorientation, Sonic pushed himself upright, dusting off his quills with a defiant smirk. "Okay, time to put Mr. Nice Guy aside," he declared, his voice charged with determination.
On nimble feet, Sonic bounced with agile grace, producing a gleaming golden Ring from his quills. Clenching the ring tightly in his hand, he drew on its latent power, a surge of strength, speed, and other enhanced traits coursing through him. With a fierce roar, Sonic curled into his characteristic ball once more, launching himself out of the ravaged cafe and directly at Metal Sonic.
The collision between the two adversaries was nothing short of seismic. Sonic, empowered by the golden Ring, pressed on relentlessly, refusing to yield. Metal Sonic, despite throwing out his metallic limbs in a defensive stance, found himself pushed back, his metallic feet digging deep furrows into the pavement as the force of Sonic's persistence overwhelmed him. The ground trembled beneath the clash of titans, the very street bearing witness to the intense struggle between organic speed and mechanical precision.
Despite Metal Sonic's formidable resistance, Sonic's enhanced might proved insurmountable. The robotic adversary lost his tenuous grip, his metallic form sent hurtling into a nearby wall with Sonic spinning in tandem, an unstoppable force of kinetic chaos. The impact reverberated through the air as they crashed into a small construction site, sending debris flying in every direction.
As Metal Sonic lay prone on the ground, Sonic wasted no time. With a swift bounce, he propelled himself towards a set of metal support beams, his gloved fists connecting with a precision honed by years of battles. The chains holding up the beams gave way, and the heavy metal structures came crashing down upon Metal Sonic, burying him beneath the wreckage. The clamor of the impact drew the attention of a few curious citizens, who cautiously gathered around to witness the aftermath of the clash.
Sonic, dusting his hands off with a triumphant grin, declared, "Piece of cake."
"Sonic!"
Before Sonic could fully savor his victory, he found himself enveloped in the familiar embrace of Amy. She held onto him tightly, genuine concern etched across her face. Sonic, momentarily caught off guard, felt a hint of embarrassment as he tried to gently wrestle himself free.
"Amy, I'm okay," Sonic reassured her, his trademark confidence returning.
Before Sonic could offer further reassurance, both their attentions were abruptly seized by the twisted wreckage of the metal beams. A surge of energy burst forth, revealing Metal Sonic's resilience. Unscathed and now wielding a salvaged beam as a makeshift weapon, the metallic adversary swung it with ruthless precision. Sonic's quick reflexes kicked in, and he pushed Amy out of harm's way just in time.
The improvised weapon connected with Sonic, launching him across the construction yard in a chaotic ballet of dust and debris. As Sonic struggled to rise from the impact, Metal Sonic, relentless in his pursuit, swung the beam down like a brutal axe. Sonic cried out in pain as the heavy blow connected, sending tremors through his entire being. The metallic assailant discarded the makeshift weapon with a clang, determined to finish Sonic with his own hands.
Metal Sonic descended upon Sonic with menacing speed, landing forcefully and pressing a cold, metallic foot onto Sonic's chest, preventing him from rising. Sonic winced, the weight of the metal foot bearing down on him. Metal Sonic's voice, a synthesis of youth and heavy vocal processing, pierced the air.
"You fail."
Sonic, gritting his teeth, attempted to wrestle free from Metal Sonic's oppressive grip. The optics of the metallic adversary burned with an intensity that matched his ruthless determination. Fists poised to strike, Metal Sonic loomed over Sonic, poised to rid the world of the iconic hedgehog and establish his dominance.
"Get away from him!"
The urgent, high-pitched voice sliced through Metal Sonic's relentless programming, momentarily diverting his attention from the imminent demise of Sonic. In the blink of an eye, a blunt force struck the side of Metal Sonic's metallic form, propelling him forcefully into the ground. Sonic, recovering from the assault, observed Amy vaulting over him, wielding her trusty hammer with fierce determination. She unleashed a relentless barrage, each swing of the hammer connecting with a metallic clang as it hammered away at Metal Sonic's exterior.
Sonic, still recovering, rolled onto his front, extending a cautionary hand in a futile attempt to warn Amy. Concern etched on his face, he feared for Amy's safety, doubting her ability to withstand Metal Sonic's resilience.
As Amy continued her furious assault, Metal Sonic's hand abruptly shot up, seizing her hammer mid-swing. In a swift motion, he wrested the weapon from her grasp, tossing it aside effortlessly. Rising from the ground with chilling efficiency, Metal Sonic advanced towards Amy, his metallic fist clenched and poised for retaliation. Amy, now on the defensive, stumbled backward and landed on the ground, her eyes wide with fear as Metal Sonic closed in.
For a moment, time seemed to stand still as Metal Sonic loomed over her, his gaze piercing through her defenses with unsettling intensity. Every nerve in Amy's body screamed for her to move, to flee from the imminent danger that threatened to consume her.
However, just as Metal Sonic seemed poised to strike, an unexpected shift occurred. His rigid stance softened, an almost relaxed hesitation creeping into his movements. Metal Sonic's optics scanned Amy with an unusual depth, memories of his doppelgänger surfacing in his processing unit. Vivid recollections surfaced, like flashes of another existence – Sonic holding onto Amy when he gallantly rescued her, the tender way she cuddled up to him, and the fond memories of their shared moments, such as relaxing on that farm in Chris' World. Recollections of Sonic's protective gestures all contributed to a momentary pause in Metal Sonic's aggression.
"Must not... harm... Amy," Metal Sonic stated, his voice bearing the weight of internal conflict.
Amy, bewildered and tilting her head in confusion, questioned, "Huh?"
Metal Sonic staggered backward, his metallic form convulsing as if in the throes of internal turmoil. His hands clutched at his head, overwhelmed by a cascade of conflicting lines of code and memories that weren't his own. Flashes of his counterpart's experiences played before his optics, creating a dissonance between his programmed directive to eliminate enemies and an inexplicable urge to spare them. As Metal Sonic grappled with this internal conflict, Amy seized the opportunity to scramble back onto her feet, reclaiming her hammer with a reassuring grip.
In an unexpected turn of events, Metal Sonic's jetpack ignited with a thunderous roar, flames erupting from it as it propelled him skyward. The robotic adversary ascended rapidly, leaving behind a heavy trail in his wake. Amy, still processing the whirlwind of emotions from the encounter, watched as Metal Sonic departed, a sense of bewilderment etched across her features.
Unnoticed by Amy, Sonic, having finally recovered, approached her side with a concerned expression.
"Amy? You okay?" he inquired, his voice filled with genuine concern.
Amy stood frozen, her mouth agape, a reflection to the shock that coursed through her. Her grip on her hammer slackened, the weight of confusion and bewilderment causing it to slip from her fingers, landing on the ground with a soft thud. Questions flooded her mind, each more bewildering than the last. What had just transpired? Why had Metal Sonic uttered those words?
Meanwhile, Rouge descended, her hand instinctively tracing the faint bruises on her throat. Despite the remnants of the recent ordeal, her voice retained its characteristic charm, laced with a husky allure.
"So, is Eggman building doubles of us now?" Rouge quipped, her tone carrying a hint of wry amusement despite the situation.
Sonic, his concern evident, sought clarification. "Looks like I'm the first. What happened anyway?"
Rouge's arms crossed defensively, her demeanor conveying her displeasure as she recounted the events. "I was having a nice latte when your cousin back there broke it and tore my place apart," she lamented, her tone tinged with annoyance.
Sonic's expression shifted to one of concern as he pieced together the implications. "He got the Chaos Emerald, didn't he?"
In response, Rouge's grin widened as she produced the coveted red Chaos Emerald, flourishing it proudly. "As if I'd let this baby go."
Sonic's face lit up with a triumphant grin as Rouge proudly showcased the red Chaos Emerald, a radiant gem cradled in her gloved hand. The coveted jewel sparkled with an otherworldly brilliance, its glow casting a warm and ethereal hue across the fractured remnants of Rouge's once-elegant apartment. Eager to secure the sacred gem for their cause, Sonic extended his gloved hand towards it, his eyes gleaming with determination.
However, Rouge, never one to pass up an opportunity for playful banter, teasingly withdrew the Chaos Emerald just out of Sonic's reach. "Ah, ah," she chided with a mischievous glint in her eyes, wiggling one finger in a playful taunt.
Sonic, rolling his eyes in mock exasperation, crossed his arms in a gesture of impatience. "Rouge, Egghead and his copycat are looking for the Chaos Emeralds. If you hang onto it, you're in danger," he warned, his tone carrying a genuine concern for her safety.
Surprisingly unfazed, Rouge's expression morphed into one of intrigue, her eyes alight with a subtle challenge. Her demeanor suggested a nonchalant acceptance of the risks involved, as if the prospect of danger added a thrilling edge to the pursuit. "That so? Well, in that case, I guess you're stuck with me," she declared, her voice carrying a confident undertone, tinged with the thrill of adventure.
Sonic tilted his head, an expression of skepticism playing across his features as Rouge nonchalantly explained her motivations.
"Things have been a little boring around here. A girl's gotta do something to keep herself entertained," Rouge remarked, her voice carrying a breezy tone that contradicted the gravity of their situation.
Amy, standing nearby, shot a glance at Rouge, her annoyance evident. Her brows furrowed with suspicion, especially given her predisposition to feel threatened by other females in Sonic's vicinity. Sonic, however, responded with a light grin, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.
"Tagging along, huh? You're really becoming part of the team lately," Sonic noted, his tone betraying a sense of camaraderie, as if acknowledging the evolving dynamics of their alliance.
Rouge, maintaining an air of independence, quickly countered, "Don't get used to it. I gotta value my independence."
"How do we know you're not just doing this to get the Chaos Emeralds for yourself?" Amy questioned, her tone conveying a mixture of suspicion and concern.
Feigning innocence, Rouge dramatically placed a hand to her chest. "What? You don't trust me?"
Sonic and Amy exchanged knowing looks, each expressing their skepticism in their unique ways. Sonic's grin held a hint of amusement, while Amy's gaze bore a more serious edge, revealing her lack of belief in Rouge's façade. Realizing the charade was futile, Rouge giggled and raised her hands in surrender.
"Okay, okay. I give you my word I'll be a good girl. Besides, I owe that robot for trashing my place," she admitted.
Sonic's response to Rouge's proposal was swift, his thoughtful expression turning into a quick grin. "Well, better to keep you close than to keep you far," he remarked, his voice carrying a note of lighthearted agreement.
Rouge mirrored his grin, a playful twinkle in her eyes as she tucked the Chaos Emerald away, securing it safely. "You won't regret it," she assured. A wink accompanied her words, hinting at a promise yet to unfold.
The trio walked away from the discarded construction yard, the remnants of their recent skirmish, Sonic having taken a moment to apologize to the foreman for the unintentional damage. The foreman, however, was quick to assure Sonic that all was well, expressing gratitude for the hero's efforts in keeping them safe once again. Sonic returned borrowed condiments to a street vendor, a subtle act of restoring normalcy to Metro Square. The cityscape unfolded around them as they strolled through the streets, the ambient sounds of a bustling metropolis gradually drowning the echoes of their recent battle.
Rouge, eager to move forward, inquired about their next move. "So, what's the plan?" she asked, her wings subtly stretching in a gesture of readiness.
Sonic, ever the strategist, outlined their mission. "Find the rest of the Chaos Emeralds before Eggman does. Knuckles and Tails already got one, and they're looking for the rest. We got one here. That makes five left."
Rouge, with a confident spread of her wings, expressed her approval. "Well, good thing you're with a world-famous treasure hunter. Let's go!"
With that, she took to the sky, soaring ahead. Amy, though briefly pouting, found herself once again cradled in Sonic's arms. He leaped into action, legs swirling into red discs before hitting the ground with a sonic blast, a rippling roar accompanying their departure as they matched Rouge's flight.
As they rushed out of Metro Square and into the wilderness, Amy couldn't shake the unsettling replay of the confrontation in her mind. Questions lingered—why did Metal Sonic stop, and why couldn't he harm her? The enigma tugged at her thoughts, a persistent thread that seemed to weave through the fabric of her consciousness, leaving her pondering the mysteries that unfolded back in the construction yard.
Likewise, Sonic's mind buzzed with thoughts, a residue of the recent clash with Metal Sonic lingering in his consciousness. Despite the earlier injuries he sustained during their battle, Sonic had caught wind of Metal Sonic's cryptic words directed at Amy. The enigma of Metal Sonic's sudden hesitation and the proclamation that he couldn't harm Amy echoed in Sonic's thoughts, a puzzle waiting to be unraveled.
The cityscape gradually transitioned into the wilderness as they sped away, the metropolitan cacophony fading into the rustling whispers of trees and the rhythmic beat of their collective footsteps. Sonic's resolve remained unwavering; their paths would inevitably cross with Metal Sonic again, but for now, the mission to secure the Chaos Emeralds took precedence. The journey ahead promised challenges and mysteries yet to unfold, and Sonic, ever the speedster with a heart of gold, embraced the uncertainty with a determination to safeguard those he cared about.