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Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 1

At night, Big the Cat is peacefully fishing. However, a siren blares out close by. He turns his head in the direction of the noise. Searchlights light up from a large tower, illuminating the area surrounding it. Meanwhile, a famous blue hedgehog is running towards the base. But multiple bots on wheels try to fire shots at him. Sonic dodges with his trademark smirk. Around the base, more weaponry fires at Sonic. He makes it in, but, robot bodyguards try to intercept him. Sonic runs along a slant and steps on a platform. The platform springs him upwards, allowing a robot guard to smack him.

SONIC: Whoa~~!

TAILS (Flying the Tornado): Sonic!

Turrets fire at the plane with three shots making their mark, causing Amy Rose to make a startled scream.

AMY (Seeing the plane ignite): Tails, the plane is on fire! What are we going to do?!

TAILS: We’re going to save Sonic! (Tails launches a missile from the Tornado, the missile releasing a Power Ring towards Sonic; the hedgehog catches it and Spin Dashes back to the base; he slams into a robot before going through it; one robot tries to catch Sonic, but Sonic jumps up, straight through the robotic hand; meanwhile, Tails attempts to land the plane, only to be on a collision course with a rock): Hang on, Amy!

AMY (Gasping as she sees the rock): We’re going to crash!

TAILS: I KNOW! (the rock is smashed; Tails looks to see what had happened, and who saved them, which was...): Knuckles!

The echidna wordlessly looks at the two before turning his attention to the base.

AMY (Annoyed): What’s the matter with him?

Knuckles observes the base with disapproval.

KNUCKLES: Overkill. Just like always.

Meanwhile, in another part of the forest, Sally Acorn is observing the scene through her binoculars in the presence of Rotor Walrus, Bunnie D’Coolette, and Bunnie’s husband, Antoine.

ANTOINE: What do you see, Sally?

SALLY: There’s too much smoke and dust!

BUNNIE: Well, whatever's goin' on over there, it could do us some real good given that that's Eggman's base.

Sally hands Bunnie her binoculars.

SALLY: Go see to Tails. I’m going in!

ROTOR: Whoa! This is Sonic we’re talking about! He’ll be fine! Let’s just wait and—

SALLY (Interrupting): I’ve waited too long for him already!

BUNNIE: We'll take care of things from here, Sally girl. Do your best.

She takes off at a speed on par with Sonic’s.

ROTOR: Huh. Perfect time for her speed to kick in.

BUNNIE: Ah'm gonna go see to Tails. (she walks off with Rotor and Antoine following before speaking to herself): Be safe, Sally girl.

In Eggman’s base...

YELLOW BOT: Dr. Eggman, the facility is in 100% lockdown.

EGGMAN: Grr! Why does that Sonic always have to get in my way?!

CREAM: He doesn't get in your way, Dr. Eggman. Sonic tries to stop you from doing all the bad things you try to do.

EGGMAN: Is that so? Well, he’s too late this time! (he holds the red Chaos Emerald): Once I put this last Chaos Emerald in the energy amplifier, I’ll be invincible!

CREAM: But, you can't do that!

EGGMAN: Is that so?!

CREAM: That's right! Sonic won't let you get away with this!

Up above, Rouge the Bat is watching on with a smirk on her face.

EGGMAN: I’d like to see him—

Sonic crashes through the doors and Eggman looks back.

CREAM (Excitedly): Sonic!

EGGMAN: Sonic... you’re too late! (he inserts the emerald and pulls out a button): You'll never stop me now, Sonic! All I have to do is press this button!

SONIC: Yeah... if you can push it before I grab it!

Eggman’s smirk falters as a robot drone enters behind Sonic, causing the scientist to grin.

EGGMAN: I'll give ya a try~! (the robot starts firing while Sonic dodges): KEEP SHOOTING NO MATTER WHAT! (Sonic jumps in front of Eggman; the robot aims for both; Eggman realizes this): Wait! Hold your fire! (Sonic jumps out of the way while Eggman ducks as the robot fires; the scientist accidentally pushes the button; unfortunately, the machine is damaged): What have you done?!

The machine creates a blinding flash of white light. Meanwhile, Sally sees the field of light spreading through the tower she’s in. Unable to think clearly, she stays frozen in place.

SALLY: Oh, no, oh, no!

Outside, Rotor, Bunnie, and Antoine see the growing sphere of light before they even reach Tails. The sight freezes them in place.

BUNNIE: This is bad...

Meanwhile, Tails and Amy stare at the sphere in awe while Knuckles maintains his composure.

AMY: What... is that?

KNUCKLES: Chaos Control. I’d know it anywhere.

Even Big looks at the illuminating orb. After the flash, Sally comes to, not fully aware of her surroundings yet. Once her senses adjust, she realizes she’s in a dark alley.

SALLY: A dark alley? How did I get here? (she hears car horns and gasps; she exits the alley and sees several creatures resembling Overlanders looking at the street before speaking to herself): What could they be looking at?

She looks and sees Sonic in the street surrounded by police officers, causing her to gasp. Sonic hears and avoids the officers tackling him.

OFFICER: Take it easy there, little guy~

The Overlanders are surprised with Sonic's speed. Sonic is on one of the police cars.

SONIC (Thinking): That gasp. Why did it sound so familiar? (Sonic looks around and sees the alley where Sally exited): Sally?

An officer nets him.

OFFICER 2: Don't worry, Sarge, I got him! (Sonic speeds off): Whoa~!

Sonic loses the net and scoops up Sally in his arms while running away from the “Overlanders.”

SALLY: Sonic~ oh I'm so glad to see you~!

SONIC (Smirking): Right back at you, Sal.

SALLY: I don't exactly know how we got here, but, I know we can't stay here. Especially not without our friends. (Sonic stops outside the city so both can look at the night sky): It does look beautiful out here. Much more natural and quiet.

SONIC: The sky’s the same. So are the stars and moon.

SALLY: Right.

SONIC: I know we went through space. Did we go through time, too?

SALLY: I'm not completely certain. (she pulls out NICOLE): NICOLE, can you figure out where we are?

NICOLE: Searching, Sally. No data available.

SONIC: Worth a shot, Sal.

SALLY (Gasps): Are we the only ones here?!

SONIC: Of our group of friends, it looks like it.

SALLY: NICOLE! Search for energy signatures of other Mobian life forms.

NICOLE: Searching, Sally. Results inconclusive.

SONIC: Well, we are out in a remote unfamiliar location.

NICOLE: Residual Chaos radiation from the warp that sent us here is interfering with my sensors. I’m afraid that until that radiation dissipates and more information of this world is programmed into my database, I’ll be unable to accurately locate other Mobian life forms.

SALLY: Understood, NICOLE.

SONIC: Well, with NICOLE out of commission, we’ll have to find out the old-fashioned way.

SALLY: By venturing through this strange world?

SONIC (Smirking): You know it! Say, that reminds me. Where were you when that warp happened?

SALLY: I was outside of the base. I saw the light and I was running over to help you, but I found myself unable to move.

SONIC: Did anyone else come with you? I mean, besides NICOLE.

SALLY: Before I went on my own, I was with Antoine, Bunnie, and Rotor. I had sent Bunnie to look after Tails.

SONIC: Antoine was there, too?

He looks upset.

SALLY (Thinking): Oh, dear. If Sonic is upset, it really can't be good. (aloud): What’s wrong, Sonic?

SONIC: I’m sorry I didn’t come back soon enough.

SALLY: You were doing what you had to do to stop Eggman. You had little control of what was going on. You shouldn't blame yourself for this.

SONIC: But, Ant’s probably made his move on you by now.

Sally realizes that Sonic is afraid that she moved on from him in his absence and started a romance with Antoine.

SALLY: Oh! It's nothing like that. Antoine and I aren't interested in each other.

SONIC: Huh? Ant’s been trying to get your hand for years!

SALLY: He gave up pursuing me, Sonic. He’s married to Bunnie now. Bunnie and Antoine truly love each other and are there for each other. I'll always have feelings for you, Sonic. (she kisses him on the cheek): It looks like we'll be together alone for a while.

Police sirens are heard.

SONIC: Uh oh, we got trouble!

They see the S Team arrive. Their cars stop in front of Sonic and Sally. The canopy of the car in front opens. A figure steps out.

FIGURE: Hi, there. You're hard figures to keep up with. (Sonic turns around to pick up Sally): Hey, hold on. We don't get such fast company very often. (he removes his helmet and underhood): In fact, I'm glad you showed up. This place is way too peaceful.

SALLY (Scoffs to Sonic): Like that’s such a bad thing.

S TEAM MEMBER: Over the last 12 months, I've only made one arrest. Some joker got it into his head that he was a hotshot driver. Had his own formula 1 car and everything. I guess he thought he'd give me a run for my money. But, it was all over in a minute. It took me longer than that to suit up.

Sally rolls her eyes in annoyance.

SALLY (Thinking): I didn’t think it was possible, but, I found someone even more full of himself than Sonic.

Sonic smirks at the S Team member.

S TEAM MEMBER (Chuckles): He never had a chance. Of course, that was our fault. This town's dull mostly because of us. We're the high speed pursuit unit, the S Team. And I'm the leader of the team. They call me Sam Speed, the Highway star. So even if you think you're the fastest thing around, think again. (the other cars rev up; Sonic exclaims and he, after picking up Sally, starts to run again; Sam stays behind while the other cars pursue Sonic while thinking to himself): Run fast, Hedgehog. I wanna be the one to catch you.

Sonic races down the highway with Sally in his arms.

SONIC: Huh! The S Team, eh? The S mud stand for Slow Motion! Ha ha!

He speeds up.

SALLY: This isn’t the time for jokes, Sonic!

SONIC: Couldn't help it, Sal.

She sees the S Team catching up.

SALLY (Thinking): They’re fast! I haven’t seen anything that’s been able to keep up with Sonic in years!

SONIC: Well, well, well; it's starting to look like the rush hour~ (the cars surround them as he feigns concern): Oh, no~ how will we ever escape?

Smirking, he picks up speed and disappears in a flash.

S TEAM MEMBER: Where did they go? Did I run them over? (Sonic knocks on the side of the canopy): Huh? (Sonic disappears): He’s so fast! (he spots Sonic on top of the canopy): Hey, this is dangerous! It's irresponsible! What if kids start trying this?!

SONIC (To the audience): Kids, never stand on top of a moving car. And on top of that, don't use Formula 1 racecars to chase animals.

He jumps off of the car.

SALLY: Who were you talking to?

SONIC: I’ll explain later.

SALLY: Oh. Okay. (after a pause): You’re not really going to explain, are you?

SONIC: Pro’ly not.

S TEAM MEMBER: You're not gonna treat the S Team like chumps! We'll teach you a lesson!

SONIC: Sal, I’m going to need you to trust me on this.

SALLY: I understand.

Sonic starts running backwards as the cars speed up.

S TEAM MEMBER: What the!? It's playing with us!

OTHER S TEAM MEMBER (Radioing Sam): Chief, you got to do something!

SAM: Playtime is now officially over. Attention, all units! Open the center line! (the others clear his path as he thinks to himself): I didn't think it would come to this, but I have no choice. I will not have anybody faster than me on my highway! (he activates his Super Nitro booster and accelerates up to Sonic and Sally; Sonic, surprised by the speed, jumps out of the way as Sam chuckles): The only way he could beat me now is if he goes super sonic!

SALLY: Oh, no! And you’re already at top speed!

SONIC: Yeah... about that...

Sally is confused until he goes even faster, practically becoming a blinding light.

SALLY: What’s going on?! You weren’t this fast when you left Knothole!

SONIC: Turns out, chasing Eggman all over Mobius is a great way to stay in shape.

SALLY: Is THAT why you’re so skinny now? I thought you just gave up on chili dogs.

SONIC: Actually, I’ve been cutting down. I’ve been expanding my pallet after I started having heart problems.

SALLY: Sonic, you really do surprise me. Wait, heart problems?!

SONIC: Don’t worry, Sal. I didn’t just do it because of doctor’s orders.

SALLY: Ah, I see. Did time around us start standing still?

SONIC: Yeah, that happens sometimes.

SAM: That creature's moving faster than the speed of sound!

S TEAM MEMBER (On radio): Chief, you’re running out of road!

Sam tries his hardest to slow down and activates the parachutes. Sonic looks ahead to see road blocks.

SONIC: Hang on, Sal! (Sally holds onto Sonic as he jumps off the unfinished road, his built up momentum allowing him to fly; he rushes past wind turbines, allowing them to spin faster, illuminating the city): Maybe this place isn't so bad. At least I have someone I can have fun with.

Sam, from afar, looks upon Sonic and smirks.

SALLY (Looking at the beautiful lights below): They’re beautiful! (she suddenly realizes something): Sonic! You’re flying!

SONIC: This is nothing. You should see me in my super form.

SALLY: Super form? What are you talking about?

SONIC: You’ll see. Eventually.

However, Sonic and Sally start to fall, about to land into a pool on a lavish estate. Realizing that Sally could get hurt from the surface tension, Sonic orients them so that he lands in the water first. At that very moment a young “Overlander” kid is working on a clay sculpture.

BOY (Muttering to himself as he works): No, that’s not right... (he mushes the clay and restarts before being startled out of his chair by the sound of a loud splash, prompting him to gasp): What was that?!

He hides the clay and looks out his window. In the pool, Sally opens her eyes to see an unconscious Sonic sinking in the water.

SALLY (Gasps): Sonic! (remembering that she’s underwater, too, Sally wastes no time swimming to save her beloved hedgehog; she swims over to him and pulls him up to break the surface of the water; Sonic’s weight makes it difficult as she internally panics): I just got back with you, Sonic! I’m not going to let you die!

The boy runs out of his bedroom to the backyard. He jumps into the pool as Sonic comes to.

SONIC: Woah~ What a rush! (he realizes that he’s underwater and starts panicking while thinking to himself): Hey, get me outta here! I can't swim!

The two Mobians see the boy jump into the pool.

SALLY (To herself): Could he be trying to save us?

The boy grabs Sonic’s other wrist. Sally and the boy help Sonic. Their combined efforts bring them to the surface in time. Sonic catches his breath while Sally rubs his back to help him cough up any water he inhaled.

BOY: That was close. Are you okay?

SONIC: I've been better. Thanks.

The boy is surprised that Sonic spoke.

BOY: Y-you can actually talk?!

SALLY: He’s not the only one.

BOY: Th-this is incredible! Oh, but, please come in so you can get yourselves dry and warm.

SONIC: Never thought I’d be grateful for help from an Overlander.

BOY: Overlander?

SALLY: You don’t know the name of your own species?

BOY: My species' name is human.

SALLY: Strange. Where we come from, they’re called Overlanders.

BOY: I see. Speaking of calling, do you two have names?

SONIC: Yeah. I’m Sonic the Hedgehog and she’s Sally Acorn.

BOY (As he brings them inside): I'm Chris.

The chapter ends.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 2

In the morning, the boy, Chris, is talking on the phone with his mother.

MRS. THORNDYKE: This picture has been a complete disaster, darling. We've had to stop shooting because there's been torrential rain for days. There's nothing I can do besides sit and wait. I don't think I'll be back until late next week at the earliest. But, I've had plenty of time to go shopping and had lots of wonderful presents sent. I hope you'll like them. They're coming on daddy's jet, so you should have them tonight.

CHRIS: Thanks, mom. (as he’s talking, Sonic and Sally are waking up on the roof, using their towel as a makeshift blanket): Mom, there's something I have to tell you. There's something I did that I'm not supposed to do.

Sally pulls out NICOLE, which is unfortunately full of water.

SALLY: Oh, no. I'll have to get NICOLE taken care of.

SONIC: If only we knew if Tails were here. He could fix her no problem.

SALLY: Right. I'll have to be careful with this until then.

CHRIS (Who's still talking with his mom on the phone): You see, there were these cats in the pool and I got them out.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Oh, you have a big heart just like I do~ Next time, ring for Mr. Tanaka, and he'll take care of things, alright? Oh, darling, I must run. Kisses, and goodbye~ (kissing noises over the phone; Chris, embarrassed, reciprocates): Ciao, sweetheart~

She hangs up.

SALLY (To herself): Cats?

They jump onto the the balcony.

SONIC: Take a good look! I’m a hedgehog and she’s a squirrelmunk, not cats!

CHRIS: I know. Please don't be mad. You see, my mom wouldn't understand.

SONIC: What’s not to understand?

CHRIS: Well, first of all, she would know I wouldn't risk diving into a pool in the middle of the night just to save a little hedgehog or a squirrelmunk.

SONIC: Really?

CHRIS: What else could I say to her? I couldn't tell her that I saved a blue talking hedgehog or a squirrelmunk wearing a blue vest. That reminds me, where and when did you two learn how to talk?

SONIC: Well, I think it was Mobodoon on Christmas Island, but, I’m not sure.

SALLY: I’m afraid I don’t remember very well, either.

CHRIS: Also, what exactly is a squirrelmunk?

SALLY: Well, you see, I’m part squirrel and part chipmunk.

CHRIS: I see. (his phone rings, and he answers): Hello?

MAN ON THE PHONE: Chris, is everything alright?

CHRIS: Hey, Dad. How are you?

MR. THORNDYKE: I’m fine, but, your mother just called and told me you made two emergency rescues last night. I guess our security can't detect stray cats that decide to go for a moonlight swim. Chris, I know you like animals, but, what you did was dangerous. Are you hurt? Did the cats scratch you while you were trying to save them?!

CHRIS: Uh-uh. No scratches at all. After I jumped in and got them out, they were really happy, I can tell. (Sonic pouts at being called a cat): Besides, I could have had grandpa or Ella or Mr. Tanaka to help me if I needed it. Don't worry, Dad. They're taking good care of me.

MR. THORNDYKE: Yeah, they better be. I got an important meeting to run. You call me any time you need me and no late night swimming, promise?

CHRIS: Got it. (he hangs up while Sonic scowls; Chris sheepishly chuckles, then realizes): I almost forgot, you two must be pretty hungry. I was thinking you might like something to eat.

SONIC: Well, what’s on the menu?

CHRIS: I checked out hedgehogs on the internet and found the perfect thing.

He hands Sonic a tray of food. Sonic tries a piece and proceeds to gag.

SONIC: What is this?!

CHRIS (In an embarrassed tone): Cat food.

SALLY: Chris, me and Sonic don’t know much about hedgehogs in this world, but, Sonic doesn’t eat pet food.

SONIC: Especially now that I've tried it! It tastes like there's cat in it!

CHRIS: I could get him some crickets.

SALLY: Sonic doesn’t eat crickets, either!

Sonic tosses the cat food dish aside and jumps onto a nearby tree branch.

CHRIS: Wait! Don’t go away!

SONIC: Sorry, kid, but, crickets don't do it for me!

CHRIS: I’ll get you whatever you want, just, don’t go!

SONIC (Smirking): See ya!

He dashes off.

CHRIS: Come back! Sonic, you could get hurt out there!

He sighs sadly.

SALLY: Don’t worry, Chris. Sonic will come back. Hopefully, sooner than the last time he left.

A short time later, Sonic, Chris, and Sally are watching a news report on TV.

NEWS REPORTER: The super sonic speed demon, seen here via police helicopter video, has the city baffled.

OFFICER: They were about this tall, one was blue while the other had red hair, and both looked like freaks.

DRIVER: I was doing about 60 miles an hour when these things went, whooo, right by me.

BYSTANDER: Their shapes alone make it impossible for them to be regular animals.

BIOLOGIST: As to the question of whether these are UMAs, unidentified mutant animals, they are positively not. Not even the cheetah, which is widely believed to be the fastest member of the animal kingdom, cannot outrun a speeding Formula 1 police car. Because of this, the inescapable conclusion one must inevitably come to is that these so called animals are in reality, machines.

Sonic, who’s eating a sandwich, rolls his eyes in annoyance. Suddenly, an older figure enters the room.

OLDER FIGURE: There you are, Chris. Guess what? A big blue hedgehog and a red haired squirrel came out of nowhere and outran the S Team yesterday! (he looks at the tv): Huh?

He then notices the two Mobians. Chris, in a panic, grabs a blanket and shrouds the two Mobians with it.

SONIC (Muffled): Hey! Cut it out!

Chris chuckles nervously before Sonic tosses the blanket off.

OLDER FIGURE: Hmm... blue, just like that... (gasps, and excitedly hugs Sonic): It's him!

Sonic struggles to free himself.

CHRIS: Easy, Grandpa! (the older figure pulls out a screwdriver): Grandpa, what are you doing!?

The figure tries to locate screws.

GRANDPA: I have to see how this thing is put together!

He inadvertently tickles Sonic's back with the screwdriver. Sally touches pressure points on Grandpa’s wrists that force him to loosen his grip.

SONIC: Thanks, Sal!

He breaks free and jumps off the couch.

GRANDPA: Stand still!

CHRIS: Wait, Grandpa. They’re not machines. They’re Sonic the Hedgehog and Sally Acorn.

The grandfather, in surprise, drops his screwdriver.

SALLY: For the record, I’m only PART squirrel.

SONIC: The other part of her is Chipmunk.

REPORTER: We now go live to this breaking story.

CREAM (Crying from TV): Oh, please~! Please, leave us alone~!

SONIC: It’s Cream and Cheese!

CHRIS: It's who?

SONIC: Well, Sal, we’re NOT the only ones sent here after all!

SALLY: We must save them!

CHRIS: Do you even know where they are?

The two shrug. Grandpa takes them to his garage/lab.

GRANDPA (Talking on the phone): I thought they'd probably do something along those lines. Thanks very much for giving me the scoop and I'll talk to you soon. (hangs up): It seems Sonic's friends have been captured by the police and moved to Area 99.

SALLY: Area 99?

CHRIS: That's that top secret military base!

SONIC: Huh?

CHRIS: It's where the national defense force keeps all their tanks, fighter jets, and high tech spy equipment.

SONIC: That sounds like Eggman’s kind of place!

GRANDPA: Your friends have been taken there by the army and placed on a 24 hour guard. The authorities believe they could be aliens or perhaps members of a mutant species developed by an enemy power to attack our population. I wonder if they might not be right, Sonic.

SONIC: Well, they’re technically right about being aliens, but, that doesn’t matter! Come on, Sal!

SALLY: Now that we know where they are, we'll know where to go to save Cream and Cheese.

Sonic picks up Sally.

CHRIS: But, if you show up at Area 99, they'll lock you both up too!

SONIC: That’s a chance we’ll have to take! (the door closes): Open that door!

CHRIS: I didn’t do it!

GRANDPA: That would be me. You're going to need help. I'll go with you! I use to work at Area 99, so, I know where it is.

CHRIS: Grandpa, are you serious?

GRANDPA: Of course I’m serious and you’re coming along, too. You told me you want to do something worthwhile with your life and this is your chance for some excitement.

CHRIS: Well, if you're up for it, I'm up for it. Just don’t tell dad.

GRANDPA: Alright, let's get going!

During the drive, Sally is sitting next to Sonic in the back seat.

SALLY: I have to admit, I’m not quite used to this kind of assistance from Overlanders.

SONIC: I guess it goes to show that not every one of them is bad.

SALLY: True. Nate Morgan and Hope Kintobor are two of the few Overlanders to be on genuinely good terms with Mobians.

GRANDPA: Overlanders?

CHRIS: They mean humans.

SALLY: Right, sorry. Humans.

SONIC: Though, it's gonna take forever to get there like this. I'd rather just go by myself!

SALLY: At least this way, we know where we’re going.

Grandpa hands them infrared scopes.

SONIC: What are these?

GRANDPA: Infrared scopes. If Area 99 is the same as it was before I retired, there might be a laser security grip. With those scopes, you may be able to avoid them.

Sonic and Sally put them on.

SONIC: Thanks. (he unbuckles and Sally follows suit; while holding onto Sally, Sonic jumps out of the car): See ya later, guys!

He dashes off.

GRANDPA: He certainly is a speedy little critter, isn't he? Yeah!

He speeds up as Area 99 comes in view.

SONIC: That must be it!

Inside, the employees are hard at work. Unknown to them, a Mobian armadillo and flying squirrel are infiltrating the base along with what appears to be a young human girl through the air vents.

ARMADILLO (To the girl): Alright, Hope. Get ready to cut the power.

HOPE (Softly): I'll be ready.

FLYING SQUIRREL: Let’s d-do this!

At that moment, Sonic and Sally enter the same vent, on top of the three, disorienting all five. They moan a bit. Sonic is the first to grasp the situation.

SONIC: Mighty? Ray? Hope? Wait, are you guys here to save Cream and Cheese, too?

ARMADILLO: Uh, it depends. Are they a Mobian rabbit about six years old and a little Chao?

SONIC: Yep, that’s them, Mighty.

FLYING SQUIRREL: So, I g-guess we're all working towards a c-common goal.

MIGHTY: Sure looks like it, Ray. Just like our first meeting, eh, Sonic?

SALLY: We can have our reunion later. Hope, you and I will look for the power room and cut the power.

HOPE: Understood, Sally!

SONIC: Me, Mighty, and Ray will look for Cream and Cheese.

MIGHTY & RAY: Right!

Sonic looks around for any laser tripwire.

SONIC: Wait! There's a lot of laser tripwire in this vent alone!

HOPE: Luckily, I came prepared.

She presses a few buttons on her watch, causing it too emit an electromagnetic pulse that disables the laser grid.

SONIC: Thanks, Hope. You're a lifesaver.

HOPE: This won’t last very long, so we need to act quick.

SONIC: This'll be a piece of cake! (he removes the filter before he goes down, careful to avoid the security cameras; Mighty and Ray follow suit when Sonic speaks softly after sneaking into a hall): I'm too fast for 'em!

MIGHTY (As he and Ray catch up): Did you get faster since the last time we met?

SONIC: Well, I'm much skinnier.

MIGHTY: I noticed. Did you ever recover from that shock to your legs?

SONIC: It doesn’t hurt anymore, but, I still can’t swim.

RAY: We'll have to t-talk more about this when C-cream and Cheese are s-safe!

SONIC: Ray’s right. This isn’t going to be easy. If it were just us, we could get out of there quick. But, we have to bring Cream, Cheese, Sally, and Hope with us, so, we can’t get too reckless.

At that moment, the power goes out.

MIGHTY: Hope and Sally cut the power. Now's our chance!

He forces the door open.

EMPLOYEE 1: What the-?!

Sonic dashes past and breaks the scanning unit Cream and Cheese are in.

EMPLOYEE 2: Hey, where'd they go?!

Sonic gets them out quick.

CREAM: Thank you, Sonic~!

CHEESE: Chao, Chao!

In the power room, Sally and Hope have disconnected the power cables.

HOPE: Thank you for your help, Sally.

SALLY: We have to get out of here before they get the power back online!

HOPE: Right, let's go!

They leave, unaware of radio-controlled paper airplanes sabotaging the power further. Meanwhile, Sonic, Mighty, and Ray are about to regroup with Sally and Hope with Cream and Cheese in tow.

CREAM: So how did you guys turn the power off?

SONIC: With help from two old friends!

CREAM: You bring good luck everywhere you go, Sonic! But, who are these two?

SONIC: You'll see them soon, Cream, I promise you.

MIGHTY: I think she means us.

SONIC: Oh, right. Cream, this is Mighty the Armadillo and Ray the Squirrel.

They regroup with Sally and Hope.

SALLY: Cream, Cheese! Thank goodness you two are safe.

CREAM: Who are they?

SONIC: This is Sally Acorn and Hope Kintobor.

CREAM: Sally Acorn? The Acorn Kingdom princess?

SALLY: That's right, but, I would prefer if I wasn't just called Princess.

Suddenly, the power comes back on.

SONIC: Whoa!

Hope and the Mobians are caught by the security cameras.

CREAM: I shouldn't have said anything. I must be a jinx!

HOPE: Those Overlanders work quicker than I anticipated!

Two of the security cameras unveil their weaponry.

SONIC (As they fire and miss): Mighty! Protect Hope! She doesn’t have any special powers like the rest of us!

MIGHTY: Understood! (he carries Hope with his back facing the cameras as the lasers are deflected by his shell): It helps when you have a strong shell on your back. Sorry if this is a bit of a bumpy ride, Hope.

HOPE: Given the alternative, I’ll take bumpy.

MIGHTY: Thanks for understanding.

Ray takes darts out of his mouth and throws them at the cameras. The darts shatter the camera lenses while Sonic finishes one off. He then hops onto a second camera and by aiming the camera's laser onto the other cameras, he obliterates them.

SONIC: Go!

CREAM (Nodding upwards at Sonic): Right! (she starts to run again, gently carrying Cheese; at that very moment, they base is going on lockdown): The door! We can't make it out! (Ray uses his speed and flight powers to scoop up Cream and get her through while Mighty holds up the door): Thank you, Ray. Thank you, Mighty.

Lasers start firing as the others catch up.

SALLY: Is everyone alright?

SONIC: Ask again when we’re out of here!

SALLY: Right. Sorry. (she notices a swarm of radio-controlled airplanes): What are those things?!

HOPE: I think we’re about to find out!

Every time one of the radio-controlled airplanes goes through a camera, the camera terminates. Hope and the Mobians are confused.

CREAM: I don't understand, what's going on?

MIGHTY: Can’t worry about that now!

Hope and the Mobians hurry out of the door as it's about to close. They hurry up a flight of stairs while avoiding haywire security cameras.

CREAM: Sonic, are we going to make it out?!

SONIC: Don’t worry, Cream! We will! Ray, you’re the only one of us who can fly fast enough! Get Cream to the top!

RAY: Understood!

He does what he's ordered. Sonic and Mighty jump across collapsing stairs, carrying Sally and Hope, respectively.

HOPE: Thanks, guys.

They look below, safe from the lasers.

SONIC (A confident smirk adorning his face): See, Cream? I told you we'd make it, and we did. you didn't doubt me, did you?

CREAM: Mm-mm. Thank you all for saving us.

SONIC: Aww, anytime, Cream. Anytime.

SALLY: Yes, you're welcome.

Sonic’s keen ears suddenly hear a faint buzzing noise.

SONIC: Hey, what's that? (he places an ear against the wall): Sounds like a plane... the Tornado!

Outside, Tails is flying the Tornado with Bunnie flying alongside him.

TAILS: This must be the place!

Back inside...

SONIC: It is him and there's another one with him. It's gotta be Bunnie!

CREAM: My cousin Bunnie is here?!

SONIC: Yep. What do you say we go and see them?

CREAM: Yes!

SONIC: Let's go!

He, Mighty, and Ray break through the wall.

TAILS: Alright, Sonic!

BUNNIE: Well done, Mighty and Ray, too!

Tails catches them on the Tornado’s wing.

SONIC: Hey~!

TAILS: Ha-ha!

CREAM (Happily blushing): It was you! You're the one who helped us get out of there!

TAILS (Winking): Everybody hold on tight! Especially you, Hope!

Everyone holds on tightly while Chris watches the plane fly overhead.

GRANDPA: Well, Chris, mission accomplished. Let's head for home.

Back at Thorndyke manor...

CHRIS (To the new Mobians and Hope): My name's Christopher, but, you can call me Chris. Sonic and Sally landed in my swimming pool last night and I helped to save them.

HOPE: My name is Hope Kintobor. A pleasure to meet other gentle Overlanders.

TAILS: My name's Miles Prower, but, everyone calls me Tails. I’m Sonic’s best friend.

SONIC: He's right.

CREAM: My name is Cream and this is my very special Chao friend, Cheese. Thank you for helping us.

BUNNIE: Y’all can call me Bunnie. Ah’m Cream’s cousin.

MIGHTY: I'm Mighty the Armadillo and this is my little buddy, Ray the Flying Squirrel.

CHRIS: A pleasure to meet all of you. Over there is my grandpa, Chuck.

GRANDPA CHUCK (Examining one of the radio-controlled airplanes): Extraordinary! Tiny radio-controlled airplanes. Very extraordinary.

TAILS: If you think THAT’S something, you haven’t seen Hope’s inventions.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I would love to see them and discuss more. This is an amazing piece of equipment. It goes beyond anything I've ever seen. How did you do it?

HOPE: It’s nothing special. Not on Mobius, anyway.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Mobius? Is that where you're from?

HOPE: Yes. It’s a planet inhabited primarily by Mobians and my own species, Overlanders.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Incredible.

HOPE: Unfortunately, as we were sent here through a warp in time and space, I can’t judge the distance between our planets.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I see. Until we figure out more, you're more than welcome to stay here.

TAILS: Hey, guys, I just thought of something.

CREAM: What is it, Tails?

TAILS: If all of US are here, maybe the others got sent here, too.

HOPE: Hmm... that theory might not be very far fetched. Sonic mentioned him, Cream, and Cheese being at the epicenter of the warp with my uncle. Seeing that Sonic, Cream, and Cheese survived despite their proximity, it stands to reason my uncle did, too. That being the case, he’s most likely gathering data to plot his next move as we speak.

SALLY: Then we must also prepare as well, on top of finding our friends and allies.

CHRIS: Hope didn’t seem happy about her uncle being here.

HOPE: If you knew about the atrocities he committed, you would understand.

SALLY: Believe us, her uncle is someone you wouldn't want to meet.

On a remote island...

EGGMAN: So, we were transported into this world by Chaos Control... Very well then, I'll rebuild the foundation of the Eggman Empire here, and soon I'll rule the entire universe...

He laughs out loud wickedly as the episode ends.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 3

Eggman cackles wickedly to himself.

EGGMAN: Conquering this puny planet will be a picnic. As an appetizer, I'll finish off this city.

YELLOW ROBOT: Which robot will you use, sir?

EGGMAN (Taking the deck of cards the Yellow Robot held): Hmm, let's see. They all look so lethal. I can't choose... (he smirks wickedly while pressing a button. He then pulls a lever that activates a slot machine on his screen; the result is a robot with missiles for arms): Ah, Missile Wrist! Perfect~!

Meanwhile, in a sewer system, Knuckles, Antoine, Rotor, and Amy are walking by while Antoine’s sword acts like a makeshift flashlight.

KNUCKLES: This whole thing is Sonic's fault!

AMY: All Sonic did was try to stop Eggman. He didn’t mean for any of us to get sent here.

KNUCKLES: Even if Dr. Eggman is the one to blame, Sonic shouldn't have pushed him so far!

ROTOR: Hey, Eggman would do that kind of stuff with or without Sonic’s involvement!

AMY: Plus, Sonic's not afraid to fight back!

KNUCKLES: Sonic just like getting into fights for kicks!

ANTOINE: Well, zat shows ‘ow much YOU know!

AMY: Well, I'm not going any further if you talk trash about Sonic. He's my friend after all.

KNUCKLES: I don’t have time for this!

AMY: You're not going to leave me alone, are you?!

KNUCKLES: Do what you want. That’s YOUR business.

ROTOR: How are you friends with this guy?!

AMY: Making a LOT of assumptions right now.

ANTOINE: Come on, everyone. I know this is a stressful situation right now, but, we need to be like ze birds of a feather and flock together. We have a better chance of getting out of here together and finding our friends and loved ones.

ROTOR: Antoine’s right. If Eggman were here right now, us arguing is exactly what he’d want. It makes us easy prey.

KNUCKLES: Fine. (with as little effort as possible): Sorry.

ROTOR: Not much, but, it’ll have to do.

So, the group gathers closer to each other again, while still giving each other comfortable space. Meanwhile, at a beach, a dark shape is lurking in the water as a beach ball lands in it.

FEMALE BEACHGOER: That's okay, I've got it!

She rushes out to get the beach ball. Suddenly, the water churns. The female beachgoer is propelled backwards from the force of the water as Missile Wrist emerges. The female beachgoer couldn't help but scream as the robot advances towards the beach. The beachgoers evacuate the beach, away from Missile Wrist, which uses its tethered missiles to attack. As it's attacking, Eggman arrives onto the scene on his floating craft, the Eggmobile.

EGGMAN: Ah! Nothing beats making waves at the beach. Well~ now that we've established who's the beach-head here, let's see the sights on the city!

At the Thorndyke residence, Cream is helping Tails clean the Tornado while Hope is fixing NICOLE with Sally checking in.

SALLY: Is NICOLE repaired yet, Hope?

HOPE: I’m doing the best I can, but, I’m unfamiliar with her circuitry. Despite my best efforts, this will still take a bit of time.

Sonic dashes in with a bouquet of flowers for Sally.

SONIC: Think of this as kind of an, "Everything's going to be okay" present.

SALLY: Sonic! They’re beautiful! Where’d you find them?!

SONIC: They were out in a nearby wood, and when I saw them, I thought of you. I can take you there if you want.

Bunnie enters with a sly grin.

BUNNIE: Seems the two o' ya still have yer romantic spark~.

She takes the flowers to put in a vase.

SALLY: Thank you, Sonic. For the flowers, I mean.

Sonic picks up Sally and dashes off while Bunnie looks for a vase for the flowers. At that moment, Ray is enjoying a peanut butter sandwich as Mighty does some weightlifting with the Thorndyke family car.

MIGHTY: 47... 48... 49... 50...

CHRIS: Mighty? Ray? Have either of you seen Sonic lately?

MIGHTY (Gently putting the car down): Can’t say I have, Chris.

RAY: Sonic just left with S-sally to go to the n-nearby woods.

CHRIS (Sighs in relief): That’s good to know. I was worried Sonic would be running around in public.

MIGHTY: With Sally there to keep him in line? Not likely.

RAY: R-right.

CHRIS: Say, out of curiosity, how do you guys know Sonic?

MIGHTY: We kind of had our own unique adventure together. We were captured by Eggman.

RAY: It was scary!

MIGHTY: Sonic suffered an electrical shock to his legs. He hasn’t been able to swim since.

CHRIS: So, that's why Sonic struggled in my pool. I read that hedgehogs float.

MIGHTY (Sighs): Chris, you need to understand that Sonic is a MOBIAN hedgehog. He’s not like the ones you can find here.

CHRIS: That does explain a lot.

MIGHTY: This applies to ALL Mobians that you encounter. We’re not like the animals of your world.

CHRIS: I see. I'll try to be more careful with how to treat you guys from here on out.

MIGHTY: I’ll make it easy for you. Just treat us like you would any other Overlander.

CHRIS: Alright. As long as you remember that in this world, we’re called humans.

MIGHTY: I'll keep that in mind.

Meanwhile, Sonic and Sally have reached the spot where Sonic got the flowers.

SALLY: Oh, Sonic, they are truly beautiful!

She kisses him on the cheek and Sonic blushes happily. In the sewers, Amy is exhausted.

AMY (Panting): Knuckles, can't we take a break?

KNUCKLES: You can take one if you want. But, I’m not stopping.

AMY (Pouts, then thinks to herself): A little conversation should lighten things up... (aloud): So, what do you think our chances are of getting back home, Knuckles?

KNUCKLES: We’ll get back. I don’t know how or when, but, we will.

AMY: How can we?

KNUCKLES: We’ll find a way. No matter what it takes, I have to get back! (he has a flashback of himself guarding the Master Emerald, a large gem glowing with a bright green radiance; a voiceover is heard): I have a job to do. It's my responsibility to protect the Master Emerald. No matter what it takes, I will get back to it. (back to present day...): Until I do find a way back, I'm not going to rest or get side-tracked.

The ground shakes. Knuckles runs up to a ladder leading up to a manhole, the other Mobians following behind him. Missile Wrist is on the move. Knuckles lifts the manhole cover above his head and the others peer above to see the damage. Missile Wrist enters a building and the people inside scream and run away.

EGGMAN: Missile Wrist, let’s take it to the roof!

MISSILE WRIST: Acknowledged...

It launches its retractable missile into the ceiling until it reaches the roof.

Eggman takes the Eggmobile to the top as various police cars arrive on the scene.

EGGMAN: Looks like we’re drawing a crowd. (Missile Wrist makes its way up to the roof): Let’s address the public! (he presses a button and a camera appears from the Eggmobile’s dashboard; his image is projected from a hologram): Please allow me to introduce myself! My name is Dr. Eggman and I have some exciting news for you! (as Eggman makes his announcement, various people watch in fear): Exciting for ME, that is, and catastrophic for YOU. (Eggman's image appears on other screens around the city): I have decided to take over your world and make it part of the Eggman Empire! Resistance is futile! You will submit to my whim, or else you'll be swept out of my way like dust bunnies!

He laughs wickedly. At the Thorndyke residence, Hope is watching the news as well as Chuck, Chris, and the Mobians currently there.

TAILS: So Eggman really is here!

HOPE: Chuck, I’m going to need copper wire, battery packs, momentary switches, a plastic box, a full body suit, and a full-head helmet.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I understand.

CHRIS: What do you need those for?

HOPE: An EMP weapon for the robot and a disguise so my uncle won’t recognize me.

GRANDPA CHUCK: That's brilliant!

CHRIS: Why wouldn’t you want your uncle to recognize you?

HOPE: If he does, he could expose me to the public and the government could take me in because of guilt by association.

CHRIS: I guess I hadn't thought of that. I understand now.

HOPE: Now, Chris, I want you to listen very carefully.

CHRIS: Alright.

HOPE: You have to stay here. Do NOT participate in this fight.

CHRIS: If you're sure. I do want to help, but, I'll stay here.

HOPE: Trust me, Chris, my uncle is dangerous. Best case scenario, he roboticizes you.

CHRIS: Roboticize?

BUNNIE: What he did ta mah legs and arm.

CHRIS: Oh, yikes! I won't fight then.

Grandpa Chuck brings in the supplies Hope requested.

HOPE: Thank you very much.

She begins assembling a gun-like device.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Is there anything I can do to assist?

HOPE: Your offer is appreciated, but, unnecessary.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Very well then.

Hope finishes incredibly quickly.

HOPE: Finished.

GRANDPA CHUCK: You’re a quick inventor, aren’t you?

HOPE: If it's to stop my bad-natured uncle, I had to work quick. (she puts on her disguise over her clothes): Alright, let’s go! (she hops into the Tornado as Tails gets it ready): I'll help whenever I can, Tails.

TAILS: Good to hear, Hope.

CREAM: Tails!

TAILS: What's wrong, Cream?

CREAM (Flapping her ears to fly at eye level with him): Good luck.

She kisses his cheek.

TAILS (Happily blushes): We'll do our best, Cream. Thank you.

Cream lands and clears the way so the Tornado can take off. Bunnie witnessed the little scene.

BUNNIE (To herself): Cream and Tails are quite close. (the Tornado takes off as Bunnie speaks to her little cousin): You're pretty close to Tails, aren't you?

CREAM (Nodding): He brightens up my day.

BUNNIE: That is mighty sweet.

CREAM: And he’s so cute, brave, and smart.

BUNNIE: Golly, yer blushin'! (she hugs her little cousin): I know Tails is goin' to be okay and the others will take on that big bully.

Back in the city...

MAYOR (Over the megaphone): I am the mayor of this city and I won't be blackmailed into associating with the likes of you!

EGGMAN: Is that so? (Eggman, with a wicked grin on his face, snaps his fingers on his right hand and Missile Wrist fires its missile into a nearby building close to the Mayor): Are you ready to negotiate with me now?

The mayor coughs, as he's covered in dust and rubble.

MAYOR: Technically, sir, our charter doesn't allow me to surrender the city.

Eggman makes a bored and annoyed expression.

EGGMAN: Missile Wrist, destroy this place, before I-

TAILS (Interrupting): Eggman!

Eggman exclaims in surprise as he sees Tails and Hope arrive in the Tornado, though the latter, he doesn't recognize. Hope pulls out her EMP weapon and aims at Missile Wrist.

EGGMAN: It's Tails and it seems he has a new partner in crime. I'll teach that fur ball! (Hope activates the momentary switch, scrambling Missile Wrist’s circuits as Missile Wrist makes a noise as if it's in pain): Huh. Seems this new accomplice planned this ahead of time.

TAILS (To Hope): Nice work! Now it's my turn!

He fires the Tornado’s guns at Missile Wrist, but, it doesn’t work.

HOPE (Whispering to Tails): Unfortunately, even with Missile Wrist’s circuits scrambled, its armor is too thick for the Tornado’s lasers.

TAILS: We'll need to take it down another way!

Amy, Rotor, Knuckles, and Antoine watch from the ground.

ROTOR: Tails is really in a bind here!

ANTOINE: We must get up zere!

KNUCKLES: I got more important things to do.

ANTOINE (Groaning in frustration before wearing a sly grin): C’est la vie. You probably couldn’t handle eet, anyway.

KNUCKLES: Don't you try that reverse psychology on me, Antoine. If anyone can't handle it, it's you!

ANTOINE (Staying calm): I ‘eard zat echidnas were zee strongest fighters, but, from what I ‘ave seen with you, zose were exaggerations.

KNUCKLES: Do you want a Knuckles sandwich!?

ANTOINE: Non merci. Seeing as you are not so tough, I will actually make myself useful.

He heads to the elevator.

KNUCKLES: Don't go in there! (groans): He's only gonna get himself hurt! (he rushes in as Rotor and Amy follow Antoine; the Mobians soon meet at an elevator; the door closes before Knuckles can get in): Guys, stop! Oh, great. What'll I do now?

He sees a stairway. Meanwhile, Sonic and Sally have returned to the Thorndyke residence.

SONIC: Chris, we're back~!

CHRIS: Tails is in a bit of a pinch.

SONIC: What?! Where is he? What's going on? (Chris points to the tv, which is showing a live broadcast of the battle): Looks like it's time for us to join the party!

SALLY: Let’s hope my speed kicks in when we get there.

SONIC: Don't worry, Sal. I don't mind carrying you anywhere.

He dashes off. Meanwhile, Knuckles makes his way onto the roof to find the still immobile robot.

KNUCKLES: Alright, I need a startegy. (the elevator opens as he smirks): What took you so long?

Amy ignores him as she readies her hammer.

AMY (Charging toward the Missile Wrist): This is for anyone you hurt, you tin bully!

Antoine jumps ahead of her while somersaulting with his sword extended. With a well-timed strike of her hammer, Amy manages to propel Antoine at Missile Wrist as the coyote spins with his sword still out. However, the most damage he does is a few scratches.

ANTOINE (Dizzily): I am alright~ Goodness, how does Sonic put up with ze spinning~? (Missile Wrist’s system reboots and it turns its head to face the invading Mobians before grabbing the dizzy Antoine): Ah! Aidez moi!

ROTOR: I must have made a miscalculation!

KNUCKLES (Jumping up): Hang on, Antoine!

EGGMAN: Not so fast! (Knuckles abruptly stops): One more step and the coyote’s a goner!

Eggman snaps his fingers and the claw-like hand of the robot starts to squeeze Antoine tightly.

AMY: You better let him go or you’ll be sorry!

ANTOINE: Help~! Please~! I take back what I said before, Knuckles! You are really strong!

EGGMAN: I’m already sorry you and your friends survived! My consolation is that it seems Sonic didn’t.

Unbeknownst to him, Sonic and Sally were making their way towards the city.

TAILS (Seeing Sonic’s blue streak): He’s already on his way!

EGGMAN: Huh?!

He looks in Sonic’s direction.

TAILS: Get him, Sonic!

ROTOR: Antoine! Now!

Antoine uses his sword to effortlessly cut through the robot’s claws, freeing himself.

ANTOINE: En garde!

Sonic reaches up and Hope hands Sonic a Power Ring. At that moment, Sally’s speed kicks in.

SALLY: I... I can feel it!

SONIC: Awesome! Let's go, Sal!

She jumps out of his arms and runs by his side.

EGGMAN: There they are! (Sonic and Sally both use the Power Ring to boost their speed and run up the side of the building): Missile Wrist, get ready to fire!

Hope quickly jams Missile Wrist’s circuits again as Sonic and Sally zoom so fast, they actually zoom above Eggman's head.

SONIC: What do you say we do a Double Spin Dash, Sal?

SALLY: If it's to help our friends and stop Eggman from causing trouble, I see no reason why we shouldn't.

Both curl into a ball and spin at incredible speed.

EGGMAN (Forgetting Missile Wrist is immobile): Those two wise-guys! I'll show you! Missile Wrist—(suddenly remembering): Oh, right, it’s jammed.

KNUCKLES: Sonic! Sally! Try the old Slap on the Wrist!

Amy looks at Sally with jealous eyes as Sally and Sonic destroy both of Missile Wrist’s arms. Sonic and Sally then spin dash into the air and back down onto the center of the Missile Wrist, obliterating it and causing the robot to explode. The other Mobians dodge the debris and shrapnel from the robot's explosion while Eggman is covered in dust.

SONIC (Smirking): You lose.

EGGMAN: This isn’t over, blue boy!

SALLY: The fight may be over, but we'll make sure you don't hurt anyone else ever again!

EGGMAN (Flying away): You haven’t heard the last of Eggman! Soon, I’ll rule this world, this universe! And the Chaos Emeralds will be mine!

AMY: Oh, Sonic! Sonic! (hugging Sonic): You're okay!

SONIC (Straining): Choking! Not breathing!

Amy doesn’t hear.

AMY: For a while there, Sonic, I thought I'd never see you again!

SONIC (Still straining): If you keep this up, you won’t!

Sally forces Amy’s grip loose.

SALLY: Easy there, please! If you keep that up, Sonic's skin will turn more blue than his fur!

AMY (Angry): Who do you think you are?! You have no right to make me take my hands off Sonic!

SALLY: Someone who’s NOT trying to strangle Sonic like you are!

AMY: He would have told me if I was!

SALLY: He told you twice since you started!

AMY: I think I would have heard him say it, considering how close I was to him.

SONIC (Gasping for breath): Yeah, you WOULD think!

ROTOR: We’re over here and we ALL heard it.

Amy stubbornly refuses to acknowledge this.

AMY: Well, he didn't say anything and I'm just fine holding my Sonic!

KNUCKLES: Amy, they’re telling the truth!

AMY: Figures YOU would believe it! You believe every other lie told to you!

KNUCKLES: I heard it, too, Amy!

AMY: Yeah, right! Like I should take anything YOU say seriously with how often Eggman tricked you!

KNUCKLES: Now, wait just a—

TAILS (Interrupting): I hate to interrupt, but, this argument is getting us nowhere and the SWAT team is currently CLIMBING UP THE STAIRS WITH GUNS IN THEIR HANDS!

ANTOINE: Zat is a valid point, Tails. We really should, how you say, amscray!

Tails deploys a rope ladder and the others climb aboard. Knuckles stays as the SWAT team arrive.

SWAT OFFICER: Alright, nobody move! (Knuckles looks at them defiantly): Don't try running away!

KNUCKLES: Grrr! Knuckles never runs from a fight!

SWAT OFFICER: Hey, easy pal!

AMY: Come on, Knuckles!

ROTOR: Yeah, Knuckles! Let's go!

Knuckles heads to the ladder.

SWAT OFFICER: Get him!

The SWAT team open fire on Knuckles, but, Knuckles outruns the shots and grabs onto the ladder. Tails flies the Tornado away and makes its way back towards the Thorndyke residence.

TAILS: Cream, Cheese, Mighty, Ray, and Bunnie will be waiting for us.

Amy only recognizes the first two names.

AMY: You found them?! That's great! But, who are Mighty, Ray, and Bunnie?

ANTOINE: Bunnie is my wife.

TAILS: And Mighty and Ray are friends of ours.

AMY (Glaring at Sonic): Are there any OTHER friends you’re forgetting to tell me about?!

SONIC (Annoyed): I DID tell you! You never listened!

SALLY: Is she always like this, Sonic?

SONIC: No, but, she’s not at her best, either.

KNUCKLES: Either way, count me out. This is where I get off.

He lets go.

ROTOR: No, don't go!

Knuckles glides to the ground.

ANTOINE: Why would he not come with us?

SONIC: That’s Knuckles for you. He does things HIS way.

Tails continues to fly the Tornado back to the Thorndyke residence and gently lands everyone on the ground.

TAILS: All newcomers, welcome to the Thorndyke Residence!

Bunnie glomps Antoine.

BUNNIE: Oh, Antoine~ Ah missed ya so much~!

ANTOINE: And I, you.

Bunnie and Antoine kiss each other on the lips as Amy notices Mighty and Ray.

MIGHTY: Welcome back, you guys.

RAY: Y-yes. It's g-good to see you s-safe.

AMY (Threateningly): How do you two know Sonic?

MIGHTY: Whoa, miss, take it easy! We were captured by Eggman and Sonic rescued us!

SONIC: For the record, Mighty, I tried telling her about it, but, she didn’t listen.

MIGHTY: Don't worry, I'll make sure to fill her in on all the details.

Amy looks with jealousy as Sally gets close to Sonic.

SALLY: It wasn't easy, but, I'm glad we were there to stop Eggman, Sonic.

AMY: Stay away from my Sonic! (she’s about to charge at Sally, only for Mighty to restrain her): Hey! Let go of me! You can’t hold me all day!

SONIC: Actually, Amy, if you’d listened to me, you’d know that he CAN since he’s the THIRD strongest Mobian alive.

RAY: B-besides, he's Sally's Sonic, n-not yours.

AMY: Since when?!

SALLY: Since we were five years old.

AMY (Disheartened): But, all those times he saved me—

ROTOR (Interrupting): He’s been saving Mobius before he met you. You’re not special.

Hope gets out of the plane and making sure she's not watched by Eggman, removes her disguise.

HOPE: Frankly, I understand why Sonic wouldn’t be so eager to start a relationship with you. Right now, you’re behaving like a spoiled child.

AMY (Pointing at Sally): She started it!

HOPE: You further prove my point.

SALLY: Though now that most of us have gathered together under one roof, we can discuss our next course of action on how to stop Eggman from hurting others.

HOPE: Unfortunately, it won’t be so easy. My uncle is plotting his next move as we speak.

AMY: Uncle?! Let me at her!

MIGHTY: Man, she is one stubborn cookie!

AMY: Eggman’s niece is spying on us! I have to take her out!

At that point, Sonic has finally had enough and speaks to Mighty with tranquil fury.

SONIC: Mighty. Let Amy go. I have a few words to say to her.

MIGHTY: Okay then.

Mighty lets go of Amy. Amy sees that Sonic is angry and becomes frightened as she starts to quiver.

SONIC: Amy, I’m not going to tolerate anymore of this attitude of yours! Hope isn’t like her uncle and spent over a year trying to prove it! She planted trees without anyone asking her to and never asked for anything in return! How would YOU feel if everyone ostracized you just because you’re related to some tyrant?

AMY: I... I.... (sighs sadly): I wouldn't like it. (to Hope): Hope, I'm so sorry I judged you.

SONIC: And don’t think I forgot about what you said to Sally! That was rude and uncalled for! Did it ever occur to you WHY I didn’t get comfortable around you?

AMY: I just assumed you were shy!

SONIC: That’s your problem right there! You assumed without knowing the full story. I gave up trying to tell you things when it became obvious you weren’t listening.

AMY: I... I promise to listen more from now on. And I promise I won't hurt your friends. Cross my heart. Just... please don't be mad at me anymore...

SONIC: Good. And if I hear about you threatening Sally, I’m not holding back just because you’re a girl!

Amy trembles more and stands down as Sonic takes a deep breath.

SALLY (Putting a comforting hand on Sonic's back): Are you alright?

SONIC: You have no idea what a relief it was to finally say all that to her. When I talk to her, she’s trying to date me half the time and the other half, she’s threatening me with her hammer. Sometimes both.

SALLY: Don't worry, I'm here for you. It's easy to say we're here for you.

She hugs him and Amy tries desperately to calm herself.

AMY: Easy does it, self.

She inhales deeply and then exhales deeply.

MIGHTY: Sonic, is it okay if I give her my little training course?

SONIC: Go ahead.

MIGHTY: Amy, I have something that could help you.

He takes her to the nearby forest.

AMY: What are we doing here?

MIGHTY: I’m going to teach you how to control your temper.

AMY: Alright. I'm ready to learn.

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 4

CHRIS: So, this Chaos Control created a warp though time and space and that's how you guys ended up here. I think I understand that much, but, I still don't understand these Chaos Emeralds you guys are talking about.

TAILS: You never heard of the Chaos Emeralds? Their existence is common knowledge on Mobius.

HOPE: That’s true, Tails, but, remember, we’re not ON Mobius.

ANTOINE: Each Chaos Emerald is filled with a magical power. You couldn't possibly imagine what would happen if you found all seven of them. (he holds out his sword): My sword has absorbed quite a bit of their energy and is now strong enough to cut through zee strongest metal.

GRANDPA CHUCK: But, no one has ever found all seven emeralds, it's highly improbably that anyone ever will.

CREAM: Why is that?

GRANDPA CHUCK: You see, Cream, every one of the precious Chaos Emeralds has disappeared.

SONIC: That doesn’t mean they’re gone for good.

SALLY: Sonic's right. Any time the Chaos Emeralds come together in one place, they scatter and disappear all over again.

CHRIS: That means they’re still out there somewhere!

SONIC (Giving a thumbs up): That's right.

HOPE: Unfortunately, without any equipment to detect them, we have no way of knowing where. If they’re all on this planet, that’s good. But, if at least one of them is still on Mobius, it’s unlikely that we’ll ever return.

TAILS: And to make matters worse, the one Chaos Emerald radar I had short-circuited shortly before the warp occurred and the tools I need to fix it might still be on Mobius.

CHRIS: If the emeralds are somewhere on Earth and if we can find some other way to locate them all, maybe we'll be able to reverse the time warp.

HOPE: That IS a strong possibility.

CHRIS: And you guys will be back on your home planet before you know it. Right, Sonic?

SONIC: Yeah. No worries.

HOPE: I’m afraid that there are a number of things to worry about. This world is so big and the Chaos Emeralds are so small.

SALLY: You do have a point, Hope.

HOPE: And we’re not the only ones who want to find them.

SALLY: Right, considering your uncle as well.

GRANDPA CHUCK: And the general public isn’t quite ready to see Mobians walking around in broad daylight yet. But, that gives me an idea!

CHRIS: What's the idea, Grandpa?

GRANDPA CHUCK: Hope looks more like a human than her Mobian friends. So, she can walk around in broad daylight virtually unnoticed.

HOPE: That's true.

GRANDPA CHUCK: So, until the general public is ready to accept Mobians, Hope can go places her Mobian friends can’t.

SALLY: I understand.

HOPE: Chris, we better get you to school.

CHRIS: Alright. I'll see you guys later, okay?

MOBIANS: Bye, Chris!

Hope walks Chris down the hall.

TAILS: Don't worry, Mr. Chuck. We'll help to take care of things around the house.

In the hall, Hope and Chris pass the Thorndyke family butler, Mr. Tanaka.

HOPE: Good morning, Mr. Tanaka.

MR. TANAKA: Good morning, Mistress Hope. I hope you find our accommodations reasonable. We seldom get the opportunity to host transfer students.

HOPE: Thank you very much.

Hope and Chris are soon walking down the street to Chris’ school.

CHRIS: It’s a good thing Ella and Mr. Tanaka know about you, Hope. But, do you think we’ll ever be able to tell them you’re from Mobius?

HOPE: Eventually. Of course, I would tell them more about the better parts of me and wait before I tell them the part of me I'm not so proud of.

CHRIS: Do you think by then, we can let them know about the Mobians?

HOPE: I believe so. I wouldn't want to exclude those I consider my friends.

Meanwhile, at a construction site, an excavator operator is digging some dirt away, but inside the dirt is a Chaos Emerald. The excavator is about to dig up the emerald again, but the shovel touches the emerald, causing the excavator to glow with a green radiance.

OPERATOR: What?! (other workers shield their eyes as the excavator begins going haywire): Hey! What's happening!? (the excavator begins moving on its own): Help! Somebody help me! I'm losing control!

The excavator knocks over a dump truck. The driver of the truck ran out just before it got knocked over. The excavator then drives up a pile of logs. Afterwards, it drives towards the other workers, who make an effort to run out of the way. It then sticks its bucket into the ground. The Operator is launched out of the excavator.

FOREMAN: Are you alright?

OPERATOR: I don't know. All of a sudden the thing had a mind of its own!

The excavator begins to power down. Back at the patch of dirt, the Chaos Emerald shines. At Chris’ school, Hope passes the principal and a taller, but, younger-looking adult.

HOPE (To herself): The adult next to the principal. That must be the teacher. But, wait, I remember Chris saying his teacher was female. Something suspicious is going on.

The principal and the teacher go inside Chris' classroom while Hope secretly listens from outside the room.

PRINCIPAL: Children, may I have your attention, please. I would like to make a brief announcement to you all. Your teacher, Miss Westerly, will be taking a leave of absence. Therefore, she will not be with you the remainder of this semester.

HOPE (Thinking to herself): What? But, if the school calendar I checked is accurate, the semester just started yesterday! Why would any teacher take a leave of absence after the first day?

PRINCIPAL: Please say hello to Mr. Stewart, who will be your substitute.

HOPE (Thinking): Hmm. This “Mr. Stewart,” will need some surveillance.

MR. STEWART: Hello, children.

Hope quietly watches after the principal leaves the room. When Mr. Stewart takes a glimpse at Chris, he has a suspicious look on his face. After the bell for lunch, Chris was standing out in the hall, when Mr. Stewart approached him.

MR. STEWART: Christopher Thorndyke?

Chris, suddenly surprised, turns around to see Mr. Stewart.

MR. STEWART: The principal told me your name and I was wondering if you’re the same Christopher Thorndyke whose father is the CEO of the Starship Software Company, Nelson Thorndyke, and whose mother is the film actress, Lindsey Fair.

CHRIS: Yeah, that's me.

MR. STEWART: Well, I must say, it’s a pleasure to meet the son of such distinguished parents.

CHRIS: Thanks... that's very nice of you to say.

MR. STEWART: Good meeting you, Christopher.

CHRIS: Good to meet you too.

They shake hands.

MR. STEWART: By the way, this may sound strange, but, do you happen to have a favorite animal?

Chris: Uh, well... um... hedgehogs, I guess.

MR. STEWART: I see.

CHRIS: Is that weird?

MR. STEWART: Not at all.

Chris smiles at this.

DANNY: Hey, Chris!

Chris turns his head to see Danny running towards him.

DANNY: Sorry for the wait.

CHRIS: It's okay. (to Mr. Stewart): It was nice talking to you, Mr. Stewart. See ya later!

He and Danny run off while Hope was secretly watching from inside a locker.

HOPE (To herself): Something is wrong... I don't know what it is, but, I'm going to find out.

At the cafeteria...

DANNY: Hey, Chris. What was Mr. Stewart talking to you about in the hall?

CHRIS: My favorite animal.

DANNY: That's kinda weird.

The TV has a news report.

ANCHORWOMAN: An unusual gemstone was discovered today at a department store construction site. Eyewitnesses of the site reported construction machinery seemed to malfunction whenever it came within close contact with this strange jewel. The stone appeared to be radiating an invisible highly charged energy. Now, some of you watching at home may be experiencing some static. This is a direct result of the gem's magnetic power. (at the Thorndyke residence, Bunnie is watching the news with Cream and Cheese sitting next to her and nodding off to sleep until the Anchorwoman holds up a picture of the Chaos Emerald): This is an artist's rendering.

This wakes Cream and Cheese up instantly.

CREAM: We've got to tell Sonic! Hurry!

She and Cheese get off of the couch and run to find Sonic while Bunnie goes to contact the other Mobians. Meanwhile, Sonic is lounging on a branch of a nearby tree while Sally is resting at the bottom of the tree.

SONIC (Waking up): Pretty good nap. I needed that.

CREAM: Sonic! Sally!

SALLY: What's wrong, Cream?

CREAM: They found a Chaos Emerald!

Meanwhile, with Dr. Eggman, he's watching the news report as well. He wears a smirk.

ANCHORWOMAN: Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation on the surrounding area to determine the possible source of the gem. SSTV will continue to keep you posted for further updates. This is Scarlet Garcia reporting live on the site of SSTV News.

EGGMAN: Well, well! A Chaos Emerald right under my nose!

GOLD ROBOT: Doctor?

EGGMAN: Yes, Decoe?

DECOE: Your cards.

Eggman looks them over.

EGGMAN: Hmmm... how do I choose? (he presses a button; the slot machine selects a strange bird-like bot): Beakon!

He laughs wickedly, giving two big thumbs up. Beakon is prepped for launch. It spreads its wings, fires its turbines, and takes off. Eggman follows. As they pass by a grassy plain, a man in a black skintight suit spots them.

MAN (To a walkie talkie): Enemy aircraft detected.

PERSON ON THE OTHER END: Roger!

EGGMAN: With that Chaos Emerald, I can make a more powerful robot! Then, exterminating those Mobians will be a breeze!

Meanwhile, back at the Thorndyke garage, Tails was ready to take off with the Tornado.

CREAM: Please be careful, Tails!

TAILS: Don't worry, Cream! We'll be okay!

AMY: I hope Mighty, Ray, and Sonic know where they’re going.

TAILS: Don't worry about them. If anyone can find the chaos emeralds, they can.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Good luck. And be sure to keep your eyes out for them. If Eggman’s as smart as Hope says, he likely already knows.

TAILS: Thanks, Chuck.

The plane takes off. In the city, Sonic, Mighty, and Ray dash around too quickly for the naked eye.

SONIC: The place is around here somewhere.

MIGHTY: Let’s get to higher ground!

RAY: It would be easier with a b-bird's eye view.

He flies up and lands on top of a tower. Sonic and Mighty follow suit.

SONIC: We'll wait up here for Tails and Amy.

MIGHTY: A pity Sally couldn’t participate.

SONIC: It’s okay. She’s disabling security cameras in the area so we don’t get caught.

RAY: Th-that's smart.

At Chris’ school, Mr. Stewart is writing a lesson on the chalkboard when Chris sees the Tornado and yelps in surprise.

DANNY: What’s up?

Chris: Uh? (standing up): Excuse me, Mr. Stewart. I'll be right back, I gotta do something.

He runs out the classroom. Hope follows him outside of the building.

HOPE: Chris, where do you think you’re going?

CHRIS (Whispering to Hope): Tails is outside in the Tornado.

HOPE: You better not be thinking of following them!

CHRIS: But, I want to help!

HOPE: I understand, but, it’s not safe!

CHRIS: What can I do?

HOPE: I’m going to get my disguise and EMP. While I do, go back to class!

CHRIS: Okay, I will. Be careful, Hope.

Once Hope is out of sight, Chris puts on his roller skates and skates to the construction site. Meanwhile, said construction site is blocked off by the police with the news crew there.

MAN: Wow, pretty freaky, huh?

CAMERAMAN: No kidding. First, these weird animals show up out of nowhere and now, this weird emerald. (he then notices something): Hey.

MAN: What's the matter?

CAMERAMAN: It looks like that Dr. Eggman guy!

The crowd murmurs in surprise as Eggman flies over the city. He smirks wickedly upon the citizens. Meanwhile, Sonic, Mighty, and Ray see the Tornado.

SONIC: It's about time. You'd think they could fly that thing a little faster.

AMY: Guys! It’s over there!

SONIC: Chaos Emerald, here we come! (they dash off and see the citizens in a panic): What's going on here?

They see Eggman and Beakon.

MIGHTY: So, Dr. Egghead thinks he can nab that Chaos Emerald before us!

SONIC: What do you say we prove him wrong?

RAY: Ready!

They dash off while Eggman and Beakon are on the move.

EGGMAN: We’re closing in! (however, something in the distance catches Eggman's attention; he looks closer): It's that blasted hedgehog and two of his friends! Change of plans, we'll come back for the Chaos Emerald later on. First, we'll get rid of that meddling Sonic and those two.

Beakon heads for Sonic, Mighty, and Ray.

SONIC: Ready, guys?

MIGHTY & RAY: Yeah!

SONIC: Let's go teach them a lesson!

Just as they jump off a building, Beakon crashes into them, causing them to bounce off. Eggman chuckles wickedly while landing the Eggmobile. But, Tails and Amy fly close to Sonic, Power Ring in Amy’s hand.

AMY: Look! Sonic, the ring! I'll throw it to you!

She tosses the ring, but, Sonic isn’t able to reach it. Both Sonic and the Power Ring plummet towards the ground.

TAILS: It didn’t work!

AMY: Oh, no! We're too far away!

TAILS: I have an idea! Ray! Come over here! (Ray flies closer to Tails): Grab the Power Ring and take it directly to Sonic!

RAY: R-roger!

He does as he's told. Meanwhile, Eggman digs up the emerald. He cackles wickedly and is about to pick up the emerald when Chris grabs it first.

EGGMAN (Growls): Give that back to me!

CHRIS (Not hearing): So this is what a Chaos Emerald looks like. (Eggman taps Chris' head): Huh? (Eggman smacks Chris' hand that held the emerald and takes it when it flies in midair): Hey, that’s my friends’!

EGGMAN: I'm flattered, but, I don't need you as a friend~

He cackles and walks away as Chris follows.

CHRIS: But, I found it first!

He tries to get it back. However, Eggman starts to fly in his craft, leaving Chris to fall onto the ground. Chris grabs the Eggmobile from underneath. Meanwhile, as Beakon is bouncing Sonic around, Ray flies closer to Sonic, the Power Ring in hand. He holds it out.

RAY: S-sonic! Take this, please!

Sonic grabs the ring and, with a smile, starts to power up. Mighty does a Spin Dash to propel Sonic higher. Sonic then launches back down and Spin Dashes straight through Beakon. Beakon explodes while Sonic lands on the ground and turns when he hears Chris' calls for help. He sees Chris falling from the Eggmobile. Sonic rushes over and catches him. The young boy is in a state of shock. Sonic lays Chris on the ground safely, elevating his feet. At the Thorndyke residence later, it is revealed that Chris has the Chaos Emerald in his hand. Chris looks at Hope apologetically.

CHRIS: I'm sorry, Hope. But, it didn't seem right for me to do nothing about helping you and your friends.

HOPE: Well, I hope you understand why I wanted you to stay out of this in the first place and will listen to me better in the future.

CHRIS: I will. I'm sorry.

HOPE: However, it would be cruel not to commend you for retrieving the emerald.

CHRIS: Thank you.

HOPE: Know that while I don’t condone you putting yourself in unnecessary danger, I commend your heart.

CHRIS: Thank you, Hope.

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 5

In the city at night, Knuckles is sitting alone, when a newspaper is wind-blown against him. He looks at it. He sees the front page headline of Sonic taking on Eggman in his Eggmobile.

KNUCKLES (Groans): Typical Sonic. (he has a brief flashback to him guarding the Master Emerald that cuts back to present day; he hears footsteps approaching him; with an angered look on his face, Knuckles recognizes the figure, Eggman): What do you want, Eggman?

EGGMAN (Groveling): Please help me Knuckles!

KNUCKLES: Huh?

EGGMAN: If we don’t do something fast, Sonic could make us prisoners on this planet forever! (Knuckles looks at Eggman in confusion): If we can gather all seven Chaos Emeralds, there’s a fighting chance we can reverse the warp that sent us here and go back to Mobius!

Knuckles then remembers the events that happened on Mobius before being sent to Earth.

EGGMAN’S NARRATION: Sonic knew he could use the Chaos Emeralds to warp himself through time and space. That's the reason he caused Chaos control!  You know how reckless he is and I was afraid of what he might do if he got hold of the emeralds! So, I set up defenses, but, there was no stopping Sonic! He was determined to push his selfish search for speed all the way this time, no matter who got hurt. Finally, Sonic invaded my base and caused Chaos Control!

Back to present day, Knuckles considers what Eggman said.

KNUCKLES (Thinking to himself): Hmm. There’s something fishy about this. I better play along to see if there’s any truth to this. (aloud and feigning anger): Sonic... he’s crazy!

EGGMAN (Feigning despair): I changed my ways and want to live in peace, but, Sonic won’t let me!

Knuckles gives his most convincing wicked smirk.

KNUCKLES (Thinking to himself): It sounds like he’s just saying what I WANT to hear. I’ll admit his acting skills improved, but, I won’t be tricked by him again.

EGGMAN (Still feigning despair): What can I do? He won't even give me a chance to fix things! I want us to get back, but, when I found a Chaos Emerald, do you know what happened? (Knuckles feigns confusion): Sonic snatched it from me and said he’s going to stay here as long as he pleases!

KNUCKLES (Thinking): More likely, to keep it out of your greedy hands. (aloud and feigning anger): That selfish hog!

Eggman subtly looks at Knuckles’ expression.

EGGMAN (Feigning sadness): He says that we can't leave from here until he says so. He thinks that this world is a lot more fun than ours and if we don't agree, then he says, tough luck. (Knuckles convincingly feigns anger as Eggman continues to feign sadness): You'd think he'd be more considerate about his buddy!

KNUCKLES: Sonic isn’t my buddy! I’m sick of Sonic turning everything into a game! Either he gives us that Chaos Emerald or I take it from him!

EGGMAN (Feigning sadness): Be careful. Sonic says he'll crush anybody who tries to get it back!

KNUCKLES: So, a battle to the bitter end.

EGGMAN (Thinking to himself): My chronic Sonic troubles are over~!

KNUCKLES (Thinking to himself): My time around the Master Emerald allows me to sense Chaos Emerald energy without a radar. I’ll find the truth yet, Eggman.

The next morning at the Thorndyke residence, Chris and Tails were examining the Chaos Emerald.

CHRIS: A Chaos Emerald. Does anyone know where they come from or how they work?

TAILS: While the existence of Chaos Emeralds is common knowledge on Mobius, nobody knows much about them beyond being really powerful.

ROTOR: And that they come in seven different colors.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I hope my analysis will reveal something about its makeup. The energy from this thing is incredible. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

ROTOR: Chaos Emeralds are a natural source of Chaos Energy.

HOPE: Indeed. The life energy of Mobians and Overlanders alike.

Suddenly, there was a knock at the attic door.

FEMALE VOICE: I know you’re in there! (Tails and Rotor panic): You haven’t let me clean your room in so long, I’m issuing a dirt alert:

CHRIS: It’s Ella! (Rotor hides under the bed): Quick, Tails! Hide!

Tails throws himself against a beanbag chair and goes limp, pretending to be a plush doll as Ella opens the attic door and comes up.

ELLA: I thought I’d find you up here, Christopher.

CHRIS: Oh... hi there Ella.

Ella turns on her vacuum.

ELLA: Keeping this room dust-free is an uphill battle. Not that I'm complaining, but, it's like trying to vacuum a dirt road! (she notices Tails and smiles): Ah~!

ROTOR (Thinking to himself): Oh, Tails. You can draw attention without even trying. Hopefully, she thinks you’re a toy.

ELLA: It's so precious! Is this your toy?

HOPE: It’s actually a project I’m working on.

ELLA: Ahh~ it almost looks real to me! (she notices his two tails): Well, that is neat, like the Japanese fox spirit.

HOPE: Uh, yeah! That was my inspiration!

ELLA: You’re very creative. (Tails moves his eye slightly): Oh!

In a panic, Chris grabs hold of Tails.

CHRIS: Say, Hope, how about we go outside and play?

HOPE: Great idea, Chris. Let's go and get some sunlight!

They head downstairs while Grandpa Chuck follows behind the three.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Me, too~.

He leaves with Ella in confusion. Outside, Sonic is lounging on the balcony with Sally sitting in a chair next to him.

SALLY: They seem to be heading out in a hurry.

SONIC: Can’t I nap in peace?

SALLY: Sorry, Sonic.

As Chris, Hope, and Grandpa Chuck run with Tails in tow, they run into Mr. Tanaka.

MR. TANAKA: Master Chris. What, may I ask are you doing?

CHRIS: Um... we were playing Capture the Stuffed Animal. (he sheepishly laughs and steps away with Hope following): Bye!

GRANDPA CHUCK: Well, I’ll just...

MR. TANAKA: Sir. While I commend your desire to stay fit, I would stick to adult sports like bowling.

GRANDPA CHUCK: You can’t tell me what to do! Why, I’ll play Ring Around the Rosie if I...

MR. TANAKA (Getting closer to Grandpa Chuck): Perhaps you should slow down. Rest is important and I believe it's time for your nap.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I don’t need a nap!

MR. TANAKA (Pushing Grandpa Chuck): You can play later.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I have work to do!

MR. TANAKA: Come on, Mr. Thorndyke.

The two bicker until out of earshot. Chris sighs to himself, but, Amy runs into Chris, causing the three to topple over.

AMY: Sorry!

CHRIS: It's okay, but, you know it's dangerous to wander around out here. What's wrong?

AMY: I just saw a news report. It looks like they found another Chaos Emerald!

Tails and Chris gasp in surprise. However, Hope is skeptical.

HOPE (To herself): How can another Chaos Emerald be found? We've only just found one yesterday, so, why would another one appear right off the bat?

They watch the report.

NEWSANCHOR: The strange energy spikes which seem to be coming from the Silver Valley area played havoc with computers and machinery across the entire region.

HOPE: This seems fishy.

CHRIS: You know, Silver Valley isn't too far from here. How about we check it out to see if it really is a Chaos Emerald.

HOPE: Chris, let’s think about this. We found a Chaos Emerald yesterday and today, there’s a news report about strange energy spikes. It’s all too convenient to me.

CHRIS: Sure, but, what can we do and how can we be sure?

HOPE: I’ll get my disguise in the likely event that it’s a trap.

CHRIS: Right.

HOPE: Should it end up being a trap, I think we should bring Mighty and Ray. We’ll need their Balance-Type abilities just in case.

CHRIS: Good idea. I'll go get them.

Unknown to them, Sonic and Sally overheard that they’re going to Silver Valley.

SALLY: Sonic, I feel we should go as well.

SONIC: I don’t know, Sal. With our two Balance-Types there, it seems kind un—

SALLY (Interrupting): For a date, Sonic.

SONIC: Oh... Oh~!

He blushes at this.

SALLY: Come and help me make a picnic lunch.

SONIC: You got it, Sal.

Bunnie and Antoine are reading books on the balcony as they overhear.

BUNNIE: Hmm, a picnic does sound mighty nice.

ANTOINE: But, Bunnie, we can’t just, how you say, waltz around in broad daylight yet! Zees world eezn’t ready to accept Mobians.

Just as Sonic and Sally depart, a strange imp/robot or cyborg lands. The imp-like being removes the bag he was carrying and opens it, taking out a small yellow television monitor. He then puts it in front of Bunnie and Antoine.

BUNNIE: Huh?

IMP-LIKE BEING: Message for Sonic the Hedgehog.

ANTOINE: Well, it is not for us, so why don't you just go away?

IMP-LIKE BEING: Can’t.

BUNNIE: Well, if it'll get ya ta go away, we'll just take the message fer Sonic n' we'll see ta it that he gets the word. (she transforms her roboticized arm into a cannon): Er Ah could send y'all off by air mail.

The imp-like being is intimidated.

ANTOINE: You had best listen to her.

The being flies away.

BUNNIE: That’ll teach 'im.

She presses a button on the screen. On the video screen is Knuckles the Echidna. Or at least just his eyes and his nose.

ANTOINE: Knuckles?

KNUCKLES (Acting convincingly intimidating): Sonic, I'm sick of all your selfish stunts! This time you've gone too far. I'm challenging you to a showdown! Meet me at Silver Valley at one hour and don't be late.

BUNNIE: Y’all gettin’ the impression he’s missin’ parts o' the story?

ANTOINE: Indeed I am. Ze last time we saw Knuckles, he was keen on stopping Eggman.

EGGMAN (On the screen): The following message has been brought to you by the Eggman Empire, which is not responsible for its contents. Except THIS part!

The screen crackles and explodes, leaving the two covered in soot as Bunnie coughs a puff of smoke.

ANTOINE: Zat eez three mistakes he made!

BUNNIE: Sounds like Knuckles needs ta be taught a lesson! Wait, three?

ANTOINE: Siding wiz Eggman, challenging Sonic, and damaging your complexion!

BUNNIE: (Blushing): Oh, ya flatterer~ (they look around to make sure the coast is clear): Coast is clear. Let's move out.

She secures Antoine in her arms and takes off. Meanwhile, a disguised Hope, Amy, Chris, and Tails get off the train to Silver Valley.

CHRIS: We're here. So, where should we start to look?

HOPE: First, I think (glaring at Amy): SOMEONE needs a little lecture.

AMY: I know, about controlling my anger.

HOPE: You nearly exposed us when you kicked that little girl across the car.

AMY: Okay, okay. I admit it was a bit harsh and I'm sorry.

Mighty and Ray jump down from the top of the train after the other passengers left.

MIGHTY: Man, that bag hold is uncomfortable.

RAY: L-Let’s check the lake.

TAILS: Good idea, Ray.

At the lake, Hope readies her EMP weapon.

HOPE: Hmm, it's quiet so far, but, we can't let our guard down.

CHRIS: I’ve been wondering. What’s all this Balance-Type stuff, anyway?

HOPE: We can discuss Ability Types later.

MIGHTY: Right. For the time being, we have other matters upon our shoulders.

Suddenly, an Eggman Robot rises from the water. The Mobians and Chris exclaim in fright. Hope is about to use her EMP weapon when water splashes it, causing it to short-circuit.

HOPE: Oh, no! The EMP weapon has short-circuited!

The robot scoops them up and puts them in its storage chamber. Eggman, on his Eggmobile, enters the scene.

CHRIS: Eggman!

Eggman smiles at them in a sinister manner, causing Chris to become paralyzed in fear from the memory of yesterday.

HOPE (Clearing her throat, disguising her voice): You tricked the news team into broadcasting the news story!

EGGMAN (Waving his finger disapprovingly): Uh-uh-uh. I generated artificial energy spikes, just like the ones provided by Chaos Emeralds. It isn't my fault that those news hounds barked up the wrong tree.

MIGHTY (To Hope): Looks like you were right after all.

TAILS: I hate to admit it, but, Eggman fooled even me.

HOPE: We can’t worry about that now.

AMY (Pulling out her hammer): His plan failed because we’re getting out of here!

She hammers against the casing, only for her hammer to break.

EGGMAN (Cackling): You can't leave. I need you in case my first plan to beat Sonic fails!

AMY: Sonic isn’t here!

EGGMAN: Oh, but, he'll be here any second now.

Meanwhile, Knuckles is meditating on the top of a hill.

KNUCKLES (Thinking to himself): Glad Eggman can see I give a convincing performance.

He senses two Chaos Energy signatures, causing his eyes to pop open as Bunnie and Antoine land.

ANTOINE: What were you thinking, Knuckles?!

KNUCKLES: Where’s Sonic?! I called him here to hear HIS side of the story!

BUNNIE: What? Then, why were ya sayin' that ya wanted ta challenge Sonic?

KNUCKLES: I had to be convincing so Eggman wouldn’t suspect anything.

ANTOINE: Wait... so, you were putting on ze act? Well... you were convincing.

KNUCKLES: I can sense residual energy from a Chaos Emerald on both of you. It’s weak, but, it’s there.

BUNNIE: Understandable.

KNUCKLES: Eggman fooled me once before. I won’t let it happen again. Now, does Sonic really plan on keeping us all here?

ANTOINE: No! He wants us all to go back to Mobius safe and sound. While we are in good living conditions for ze time being, he does want to go back!

KNUCKLES: So, Eggman WAS just saying what I wanted to hear!

BUNNIE: That's Eggman's ways o' workin'.

KNUCKLES: I’m guessing Sonic didn’t send us here for the fun of it?

Bunnie and Antoine are shocked and appalled by the accusation.

ANTOINE: Why would you make such an assumption?! Sonic was trying to help those he loves! He couldn't have known this would happen!

BUNNIE: And while gettin' them Chaos Emeralds was part o' the reason he attacked Eggman’s base, his first n' foremost motivation was savin' mah cousin, Cream, who was captured by Eggman!

KNUCKLES: That explains a lot. So, Eggman not only lied to me, but, he kidnapped an innocent bystander! (cracking his knuckles): Now, I’m REALLY mad!

ANTOINE: And now that we know the truth, we'll be here to help you.

KNUCKLES: Right now, Eggman thinks I’m buying into his story and battling Sonic. We’ll need to make some noise to make it more convincing.

BUNNIE: Right.

KNUCKLES: That’ll mean knocking down a few trees. But, if it works, it’ll help everyone.

ANTOINE: Very well then. (he draws his sword, which begins to glow): Ready! (with a swipe of his sword, Antoine releases a traveling energy slash that cuts through a tree a good distance away from him): How’s zat?

KNUCKLES (Taken aback): Remember when I said you couldn’t handle that robot? I take it back.

ANTOINE: Merci.

BUNNIE: Havin' lived 'round trees so long, it pains me ta do this. But, if it means gettin' the drop on Eggman, ah can manage.

ANTOINE: Plus, we can replant seeds later on.

Eggman hears the trees falling.

EGGMAN: Ah, ha~ a battle is commencing! A battle that Knuckles is bound to win~

While Eggman is distracted, Hope and Tails are discreetly undoing some screws.

TAILS (Softly): We've got it.

They remove a panel.

CHRIS: Good work, you guys. You're both really handy.

TAILS: No big deal.

HOPE: Now we just need to see how this is wired.

AMY: We don’t have time for this!

HOPE: If you're thinking of grabbing a different hammer from the toolbox, it could cause more problems... and you don't want to be in for another lecture, do you?

MIGHTY: Besides, Amy, that would attract Eggman’s attention.

AMY (Sighs): I'll stand down.

Back at the “fight,” Knuckles, Antoine, and Bunnie continue to make noise, using the wilderness around them to make a convincing sounding scuffle when Antoine sees Eggman’s robot.

EGGMAN: Get him, Knuckles!

ANTOINE: Knuckles, you may want to look at zees.

Knuckles goes next to Antoine and gets a look. He sees the captives in Eggman’s robot.

KNUCKLES (Gasps): Okay, now he's gone too far!

BUNNIE: Y’all ready ta let Eggman know ya were wise to him?

KNUCKLES: Oh, I’m ready!

Inside the robot, Tails and Hope are still looking over the robot’s wiring.

TAILS: Let's see. This one could be the one in charge of the hold.

HOPE (Thinking to herself): My uncle’s definitely been practicing with his wiring.

TAILS: A bit of a challenge, but, I think we're getting closer.

Tails accidentally cuts the wrong wire, causing an explosion. Chris and the Mobians exclaim in surprise while Hope sighs expectantly. The explosion blew a hole in the robot, catching Eggman’s attention.

EGGMAN: Look what you've done! You've ruined my robot! And it isn't even insured! (Bunnie and Antoine arrive. Hope, Chris, Eggman, and the Mobians see them; Antoine charges his sword and then launches up and slashes the back of the robot's legs, causing it to lose balance and tip over; the ones trapped inside are a bit stunned, but, otherwise unharmed): What?! Sonic’s supposed to be here!

BUNNIE: Well, we just happened ta get the message. (she cracks the case open): Y’all okay?

MIGHTY: We are now.

RAY: Th-thanks, you guys.

The captives get out.

EGGMAN: It's not over! My robot may be down, but, it certainly isn't out!

The robot gets up. Bunnie and Antoine gasp as it deploys turrets. Antoine and Bunnie dodge in two separate directions, only to meet up again behind a rock, which is blown to pebbles.

BUNNIE: Uh oh!

The robot deploys another round of turrets. As it starts firing, Knuckles enters the scene. He kicks the turret launchers, rendering them useless.

EGGMAN: Huh?!

KNUCKLES: News flash! I never was really on your side!

EGGMAN: What?!

KNUCKLES: I've fallen for your deceptive words before and I'm not letting it happen again!

EGGMAN: So, you were onto me from the start?!

KNUCKLES: Exactly. I spent a lot of time around the Master Emerald. I don’t need a radar to sense Chaos Energy! I sensed residual Chaos Emerald energy on you, so, I knew you were in contact with a Chaos Emerald recently. I figured you were lying and with Bunnie and Antoine’s help, I found out I was right!

EGGMAN: You little treacherous egg-laying rat!

KNUCKLES: Hey, Mighty! How about we do a little tag team?

MIGHTY: Let's go for it, Knuckles!

He pulls out two Power Rings and strikes the edges together until a chain of sparkles links them. He then tosses one ring to Knuckles.

EGGMAN: Tether Rings?!

MIGHTY: You got that right!

Mighty jumps into the air and curls up. Knuckles uses his Tether Ring to swing Mighty around like a flail. With great power, Knuckles launches Mighty into Eggman's Eggmobile. However, it turns out to be a fake out as Mighty uncurls midair to swing Knuckles at the robot. As Knuckles makes his way up the robot's surface, he punches it, creating large holes. Mighty then swings Knuckles at the Eggmobile.

EGGMAN: You!

Knuckles punches the Eggmobile with all his might. Eggman screams as he is launched into the distance. Knuckles then teams up with Mighty to finish the robot. With both of them giving a great punch, the force causes the robot to split in half and then explode. The others are at a safe distance away from the shrapnel and debris while Mighty anchors Knuckles down to the ground. After the gust, the group looks on at the smoking remains of the robot.

KNUCKLES: Just like Carnival Island, eh, Mighty?

MIGHTY: Yep.

AMY: Is that another of Sonic’s stories I didn’t listen to?

MIGHTY: Sonic wasn’t there.

CHRIS: You guys made it!

Knuckles hands Mighty his Tether Ring.

MIGHTY: Thanks.

Knuckles then heads off.

CHRIS: Huh? Knuckles, where are you going?

KNUCKLES: I’m going to do a little Chaos Emerald hunting on my own.

BUNNIE: Given that Knuckles does things on his own fer the most part, we'll let him go.

As Knuckles walks by, he finds Sonic and Sally finishing up their picnic lunch.

SONIC: That hit the spot.

KNUCKLES: So, this is where you were.

SONIC: Yeah. Sally came up with the idea for a picnic date here, so, we did it.

KNUCKLES: Well, remember when you first came to Angel Island and I thought you were after the Master Emerald?

SONIC: Yeah, why?

KNUCKLES: Eggman thought he could fool me again.

SONIC: That creep!

KNUCKLES: It didn’t work this time.

SONIC: I figured. You're smarter than Eggman gave you credit for.

KNUCKLES: Besides, fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

SONIC: Right. So, I take it you're off now?

KNUCKLES: Yep.

SONIC: It's cool. See you around.

Knuckles walks off as Sally gets close to Sonic, causing him happily blush with a squiggly smile adorning his face.

SALLY: Knuckles sure seems smarter than when you described him.

SONIC: You won't tell him what I said, will you?

SALLY: I doubt he’d stay around to listen, anyway.

SONIC: Good point.

SALLY: Sonic, I have one question.

SONIC: Yes, Sally?

SALLY (Sultry eyes): How many kids do you want?

SONIC (Blushing as his eyes widen): Um... erm...

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 6

At the Thorndyke residence, Sonic is standing on top of the garage roof. He dashes off only to return shortly after. He stops at a door that Sally opens.

SALLY: Good morning, Sonic. Where did you go just now?

SONIC: Nowhere special. Otherwise, I would have brought you with me.

SALLY: Okay. (as Sonic walks in, Sally blushes happily while speaking internally): Sonic, you’re truly one of a kind.

Meanwhile, Chris was having breakfast, when the telephone rang.

MR. TANAKA: Thorndyke residence? (he walks into the dining room): Yes, sir. (he hangs up): Your father has requested that I inform you that he and your mother will be stopping by for a visit this afternoon.

Hope walks by with a platter of breakfast sandwiches.

CHRIS: Wow, Hope! They're coming to see me!

HOPE: What a nice surprise!

CHRIS: It’s not even my birthday!

HOPE: Do you think you can help me with these breakfast sandwiches?

CHRIS: Sure.

They almost exit with the platter, but, Mr. Tanaka stops them.

MR. TANAKA: Where are you two going in such a rush? And with those breakfast sandwiches?

HOPE: Oh, just a little experiment. We test various kinds of breakfast sandwiches and see what tastes better.

MR. TANAKA: Very well, then.

The two head to the garage.

CHRIS: That’s the third close call this week.

HOPE: Though, you and I both know we can't keep this up forever.

CHRIS: So does my grandpa. At least him knowing about the Mobians makes it easier.

HOPE: That’s true. Come on, we don't want to keep our friends waiting.

They head to Grandpa Chuck’s lab and deliver the platter and each of the Mobians takes a breakfast sandwich.

TAILS: Thanks, Chris. Thanks, Hope.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Third close call this week. Sooner or later, Ella and Tanaka will have to be let in on the secret.

HOPE: That's just what I was saying to Chris.

ROTOR: It’ll be nice if we don’t have to act like plushes around them anymore. Some of us can’t pull it off, anyway.

AMY: I said I was sorry!

ROTOR: I was mostly referring to me.

AMY: Oh...

She chuckles sheepishly.

BUNNIE: Mah roboticized limbs make it nearly impossible fer me ta pull it off.

ANTOINE: Though you are a precious doll to me, Bunnie~

CHRIS: Anyway, my parents are coming for a visit this afternoon.

CREAM: Ah, that’s wonderful!

CHRIS: I want you Mobians to stay out of sight while they’re here.

SONIC: So, basically keep doing what we’ve been doing since we got here?

TAILS: You can count on us. No problem.

HOPE: We better get going or you’ll be late for school.

Chris looks at a nearby clock and sees that it's four minutes after 7 AM. He gasps and hurries out the door. In his haste, he misses a step and trips.

CHRIS: Whoa! (thuds): I’m okay.

HOPE: I’ll get him to school.

She heads down the stairs.

TAILS: Chris sure is happy about his folks visiting, huh, Chuck?

GRANDPA CHUCK: He should be.

SALLY: So, what do they do?

GRANDPA CHUCK: Chris’ father, my son, Nelson, is president of a huge software company. He spends most of his time in the office or away on business.

BUNNIE: And what about his mama?

GRANDPA CHUCK: She’s a star. A famous actress who jets all over the world making movies.

ROTOR: It must be hard on Chris to not have his parents around most of the time.

TAILS: Well, if anyone can understand that, it’s us.

SALLY: Indeed. Even if we have each other, there are those in our lives we still miss.

GRANDPA CHUCK: You miss your parents, too?

TAILS: Eggman took most of our parents away from us and roboticized them.

CREAM: Yeah. I don't even know where my mother is... that's why we can understand what Chris is going through.

AMY: My parents died when I was 8.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I'm sorry to hear that. I'll be here to support you, though.

Meanwhile, at Eggman’s fortress...

EGGMAN: Grr! I've got to think of something! I've got to think of a way to conquer this planet! (he then has an idea): I've got it! Perhaps the children will be fo assistance! I'll send a robot to brainwash them into loving me!

DECOE: Here are your choices.

EGGMAN: Let's see (browsing through the deck of cards) This is a tough one. (he puts the card into the slot on his dashboard; the result is a professor-like robot): Perfect!

The robot is deployed and lands on the roof of Chris’ school. Meanwhile, at the mansion, an older blue hedgehog with gray facial hair is hiding in the bushes.

OLDER BLUE HEDGEHOG (To himself): He must be here. (he sees Sonic on the garage roof): He IS here! (Sonic then stands up and stretches as the older hedgehog sneaks in): I hope I don’t surprise them too much. (he hides as he hears someone coming down the stairs and thinks to himself): I must keep quiet.

GRANDPA CHUCK (From upstairs): Sally, are you sure that NICOLE detected another Mobian?

SALLY: I've relied on NICOLE for years. We must check.

OLDER HEDGEHOG (Thinking): Sally? NICOLE? Mobians?

SALLY: NICOLE says that one is very close. (she looks under the stairs): Hello?

OLDER HEDGEHOG: Sally?

SALLY (Gasping in surprise): Sir Charles?!

SIR CHARLES: That's right. (Sally comes down from the stairs): I've missed you.

SALLY: I know someone who missed you more.

SIR CHARLES: He's the one who I came here to see especially.

She takes Sir Charles up the stairs.

SALLY: This is where we've been protected shortly after coming to this strange world.

Sonic sees Sir Charles and stands back in surprise.

SONIC: Uncle Chuck?!

SIR CHARLES: Yes, Sonic, it's me.

Sonic, with tears in his eyes, embraces his uncle. The two hedgehogs embrace warmly.

GRANDPA CHUCK: So, this is your uncle, Sonic?

SONIC: That's right. Chuck, meet Uncle Chuck.

SIR CHARLES: I see you’re in the custody of Overlanders.

SONIC: Well, Sally and I did kind of fall into their swimming pool and Chris, this Chuck's grandson, saved us. Well, more specifically, me.

SALLY: Also, they’re called humans here.

SIR CHARLES: I see. (he sees Cream cuddling Tails, but, doesn’t recognize her): Who’s your friend?

TAILS: This is Bunnie’s cousin, Cream.

SIR CHARLES: Hello, Cream. Your Vanilla’s daughter, right?

CREAM: You know my momma?!

SIR CHARLES: Yeah. My research was funded by her older brother, Beauregard.

MIGHTY: Sonic’s uncle, eh?

SIR CHARLES: That’s right.

MIGHTY: Name’s Mighty the Armadillo. The one eating a peanut butter sandwich is Ray the Flying Squirrel.

RAY: H-hello.

SIR CHARLES: I’m not making you nervous, am I?

RAY: Th-this is my n-natural stutter. I used t-to be really n-nervous all the t-time.

SIR CHARLES: And now?

RAY: N-not as much. But, I c-couldn’t afford s-speech therapy.

SIR CHARLES: Well, I think your stutter is unique.

SONIC: How did you get deroboticized?

SALLY: If you feel comfortable telling us, of course.

SIR CHARLES: It happened about a month after Sonic left Knothole.

TAILS: Tell us more, please.

Flashback to that day...

SIR CHARLES (Voiceover): I was heading out to plant some trees when I discovered an unusual stone.

FLASHBACK SIR CHARLES: What's this?

SIR CHARLES (Voiceover): I picked it up and examined it closely. It was shaped like a dodecahedron and colored translucent blue.

FLASHBACK SIR CHARLES: That's odd. What could a stone like this be doing out here?

SIR CHARLES (Voiceover): Suddenly, the stone started glowing blindingly bright.

FLASHBACK SIR CHARLES: Ah! My eyes!

SIR CHARLES (Voiceover): When the light faded a few seconds later, I was flesh and blood again.

Flashback Sir Charles looks over himself to see that he is indeed a full-fledged Mobian once more.

SIR CHARLES (Voiceover): Overwhelmed with excitement over my discovery, I found a perfect opportunity to restore my brother and his wife. (flashback Sir Charles goes to find the aforementioned characters before the flashback ends): I kept looking until the warp that sent us here.

TAILS: Whoa, that's quite an experience.

SIR CHARLES: I wasn’t sure if I was the only one who ended up here until just yesterday.

CREAM: So, how did you know where to find us?

SIR CHARLES: Well, I saw Sonic’s footprints and followed them here.

CREAM: Oh, I see.

SIR CHARLES: I can see that Sonic’s sure slimmed down since I last saw him.

MIGHTY: Ray and I noticed that too.

ROTOR: So, I’m not the only one.

RAY: P-pretty much.

SONIC: I started having heart problems after eating so many chili dogs, so, I’ve been cutting down per doctor’s orders.

SALLY: And with all the running Sonic has been doing, it's also benefited in his health.

SONIC: The doctors say I can only have one chili dog a day.

SIR CHARLES: It might not be easy, but, I know you can keep it up.

SONIC: I have been. Not just because it’s doctor’s orders.

SIR CHARLES: That's very good.

BUNNIE: Ah reckon Sally-girl has somethin' ta do with it?

SONIC: She reminds me of when to have a chili dog and when not to. She helps keeps me in check. Plus, I didn’t want my love for chili dogs to be what keeps me from ever returning to her.

SALLY: I really mean that much to you?

SONIC: That much and more.

Sally embraces him warmly. At Chris’ school, Hope is staying hidden while Eggman’s new robot is teaching the kids to play baseball.

INTELLIGENTE: I've always wanted to play baseball. Shall we?

HOPE (Quietly): I know that’s my Uncle’s E-51 Intelligente robot. This is a really bad time to be without my disguise and EMP weapon.

INTELLIGENTE: Well, what are we waiting for? Play ball!

HOPE (Quietly): So far, he’s not harming anyone, but, I doubt that’ll last long.

Mr. Stewart arrives with a police officer and points at the crowd of children practicing to play baseball.

MR. STEWART: There, you see? You knock it down and I’ll attempt to disable its power supply! There’s no time to lose!

INTELLIGENTE (Helping Chris): Remember to keep your wrist relaxed all through the pitch, like so. You see?

OFFICER: Doesn’t seem like those kids are in danger to me. In fact, it looks like they’re having a great time. I wish I was out there playing.

MR. STEWART: Stop pigging out on that burger and arrest him!

He swipes the officer’s burger.

OFFICER (Angrily pulls out his police baton): I'm nailing you for burger burglary!

HOPE (Thinking to herself as Mr. Stewart is chased by the officer): I still have my suspicions about Mr. Stewart, but, that’ll have to wait. Intellgente is the real threat. I’ll wait until he shows his true colors and contact Sally through NICOLE using my watch.

Meanwhile at Eggman's lair, he and his robot lackeys are waiting for Intelligente's progress.

EGGMAN: I wonder if Intelligente has successfully brainwashed those brats into admiring me yet. I'd better look and see how it's going. (so, he activates his monitor to see Intelligente playing baseball with the students): What’s this?! (he then notices a vaguely familiar figure outside the baseball field): Wait... is that Hope?! What's my niece doing out there?!

DECOE: Didn’t she join the Mobians to oppose you?

EGGMAN: She did! And now she's fraternizing with the dwellers of this planet?! (he suddenly realizes that the disguised figure was Hope all along): Wait... she had disguised herself before!

DECOE: Doctor, I believe Intelligente is becoming more popular with the kids than you are.

EGGMAN: WHAT!? Wait till I reprogram that upstart! (he presses a button): Bokkun, get in here!

The imp-like being from before enters.

BOKKUN: Yes, sir?

EGGMAN: I have two messages for you to deliver!

BOKKUN: Yes, sir!

EGGMAN: The first is for Intelligente.

BOKKUN: And what would you like to say to him?

EGGMAN (Shouting): How’d you like to visit the junkyard?!

BOKKUN: Saved. And the next message?

EGGMAN: This is for my traitorous niece, Hope.

BOKKUN: And your message to her?

EGGMAN (Shouting): You’re a disgrace to your entire family!

BOKKUN: Saved! Okay, I'm on my way, sir!

He flies off.

SMALL SILVER ROBOT: I thought Doctor Eggman’s last name was “Robotnik,” and Hope’s last name was “Kintobor.”

EGGMAN: The Kintobor family branches off the Robotnik family tree, Bocoe.

BOCOE: Oh, I see.

EGGMAN: My father had his last name changed to Kintobor for reasons he refused to tell me. After my brother, Colin, went into space, I changed my last name back to Robotnik after my Grandpa Gerald.

DECOE: What a story, sir.

EGGMAN: My Grandpa Gerald has been missing for over 50 years along with my cousin, Maria. I don’t know what happened to them. (Decoe and Bocoe hold up handkerchief and appear to be sobbing): Hmm... though, I have a vague memory of something called Space Colony ARK. Unfortunately, I’ve been unable to find any data on such a thing, so, I kind of dismissed it all these years.

DECOE: Understood, sir.

At the baseball field, Intelligente catches the ball.

CHRIS: That's the greatest catch ever!

INTELLIGENTE: Well, well, well! Seems my retro-thrusters aren’t as rusty as I thought!

As Intelligente chuckles to himself, Bokkun appears.

BOKKUN: Message for you.

INTELLIGENTE: Huh?! Bokkun?!

BOKKUN: Doctor Eggman has a message for you.

INTELLIGENTE: Hmm? A message?

BOKKUN (Shouting): How’d you like to visit the junkyard?!

INTELLIGENTE: Do you mean he's miffed at me?

BOKKUN: Sure, he’s angry at you! Almost as much as he’s mad at (pointing to Frances): Hope!

INTELLIGENTE: That's not Hope. That's Frances.

BOKKUN: Oh. Well, that’s embarrassing. I was told to deliver a message to Hope, who was sighted here.

INTELLIGENTE: I don't have a student named Hope here.

HOPE (Thinking to herself): So, my uncle knows I’m here now?

INTELLIGENTE: Well, she is always welcome to learn with me.

BOKKUN: Who cares?! You're screwing up the plan!

FRANCES: Mr. Intelligente, what’s going on?

INTELLIGENTE (Still talking to Bokkun): Dr. Eggman may do with me as he wishes, but, I refuse to abandon the students in my charge!

HOPE (Thinking to herself): We’ll see about that.

FRANCES: I wish all teacher were as great as you are!

CHRIS: Me too.

DANNY: Same here.

INTELLIGENTE (With heart eyes): Oh~ thank you. That's wonderful~

HOPE (Thinking to herself while noticing a Surveillance Orb): A Surveillance Orb. It won’t be long until my uncle comes to deal with this himself. I have to contact Sally now!

So, cautiously, Hope contacts Sally. At the mansion, NICOLE picks up on the transmission.

SALLY: It's Hope. NICOLE, answer transmission.

NICOLE: Answering, Sally.

SALLY: Status report, Hope.

HOPE: My uncle sent a robot to Chris’ school.

SALLY: What can we do to help?

HOPE: Gather Sonic, Bunnie, and Antoine, get my EMP weapon, and bring it to me.

SALLY: Right away. Sally out.

NICOLE (Ending the transmission): I put a tracer on Hope’s location so we can find her.

SALLY: Thank you, NICOLE.

SONIC: What’s up, Sal?

SALLY: It's Hope. She says that Eggman sent a robot to Chris' school. You, Bunnie, Antoine, and I need to bring her EMP weapon to her.

SONIC: Well, what are we waiting for?!

Bunnie grabs hold of her EMP weapon and the four were ready to go. Meanwhile, Eggman is on his way to the school.

EGGMAN: If you want something done right, you do it yourself! (he realizes Hope may have contacted the Mobians by now): That treacherous niece of mine may have contacted the Mobians by now, but I'll make sure they don't get in my way! (he contacts his fortress with the Eggmobile’s two-way radio): Decoe! Bocoe! Don't wait up for me. This won't take long at all! But, just in case, send out a legion of SWATBots around the school.

BOCOE: Affirmative!

On the way to the school, the selected Mobians see a SWATBot carrier craft.

ANTOINE: SWATBots! And zey are heading towards the school!

SONIC: Eggman must’ve figured Hope contacted us and ordered a legion of them to slow us down!

SALLY: This does increase our difficulty a bit, but, we must do what we can!

The Carrier deploys SWATBots in two different models: slightly larger silver and regular-sized black.

SONIC: Oh, boy!

SILVER SWATBOT #1: Hedgehog! Priority 1!

SONIC: Looks like I know who I'm facing off against!

SILVER SWATBOT #2: The Silver SWATBots are updated models! You cannot beat us all!

SONIC: I can certainly try, if it's to help my friends!

The Mobians take out a few black SWATBots.

SALLY: We can't keep at this forever! We need to help Chris and Hope!

SILVER SWATBOT #1: Initiate combination sequence!

It floats into the air with four black SWATBots and they merge into a bigger, badder bot.

BUNNIE: Oh, boy!

SONIC: That’s new...

COMBINED SWATBOT: Mega SWATBot combination complete!

ANTOINE: What can we do?

The Mega SWATBot begins stomping on some of its comrades.

BUNNIE: Wait, what?

SONIC: Looks like the Mega SWATBots are dumber than the bots that make them up.

ANTOINE: So, zat must mean they're easier to stop.

SONIC: If you forget that they’re bigger, stronger, and faster.

ANTOINE: Right...

The Mega SWATBot grabs a Silver SWATBot.

SALLY: Look out!

It throws the Silver SWATBot on the ground.

BUNNIE: What kind o' idiots designed this?

Meanwhile, at Eggman’s fortress, a robot resembling a chicken is arguing with a robot with a drill nose.

CHICKEN ROBOT: I just don’t understand it! Combined, their A.I. should be better!

DRILL NOSE ROBOT: I knew we should have gone with my idea!

CHICKEN ROBOT: That would’ve fallen apart just standing still, Grounder!

GROUNDER: Well, it's still better than yours tossing the others around, Scratch!

SCRATCH: Says you! It’s your fault Eggman demoted us to this!

GROUNDER: You take that back!

The two start beating each other up in a cloud of dust. Back to Chris’ school, Eggman arrives.

EGGMAN: Intelligente!

Chris becomes paralyzed with fear.

INTELLIGENTE: Ah! Oh, my hard drive, it's you!

EGGMAN: I bet you think you’re smart for disobeying my orders, you transistorized traitor! (looking in Hope’s direction): As for YOU, Hope, I know where you are!

HOPE (To herself): Oh, no!

Eggman tears down the baseball fence to reveal Hope. The students look on in surprise. Except for Chris, who’s still paralyzed in fear. Eggman grabs Hope by the straps of her overalls, causing Hope to yelp in surprise.

EGGMAN: I’ll give you credit for your clever disguise, but, it won’t help you anymore, my little niece!

FRANCES: Wait, that girl is Eggman's niece?

HOPE (Looking defiantly at Eggman): Even if you know my identity now, Uncle Julian, I’ll never join you!

Eggman tosses her to the ground like a rag doll at being called “Julian,” a name he long since abandoned.

EGGMAN: You're pretty ambitious to battle against me and now you have the gall to call me by a name I never use anymore?!

HOPE (Getting up despite her injuries): You might be known as Eggman by others, but, you were still born Julian Kintobor!

FRANCES (Looking on, thinking to herself): This girl must be really brave!

Eggman draws a blaster and fires it at Hope, trapping her in an energy cage. Hope exclaims, but, the other students and Intelligente feel bad for Hope.

DANNY: This Eggman is stone cold, doing that to his own niece!

FRANCES: Yeah! Someone needs to put a stop to him!

INTELLIGENTE: Your treatment of your own niece is deplorable! It’s no wonder she rebelled against you!

EGGMAN: Shut up! I'm going to fix you so you never disobey me again!

He puts on a tool belt.

INTELLIGENTE: Ah! No! Please don't disassemble me! Please, help me get away!

Chris snaps out of his fear.

CHRIS: Huh? But, what about what you said a few minutes ago when you said you'd never abandon us no matter what Dr. Eggman threatened to do to you?

INTELLIGENTE: I really said no matter what?

FRANCES: You did!

DANNY: We all heard it!

INTELLIGENTE: I suppose there’s no way around it, then! What was I thinking?!

Eggman cackles wickedly.

CHRIS: What’s so funny?

EGGMAN: You don't really believe that sniveling circuitbox plans to keep his promise? I'm ordering him to keep you in detention where you'll be forced to respect me!

CHRIS: No way!

DANNY: You snake!

EGGMAN: Listen here, robot! Unless you want to end up in a scrap heap, you’ll do what I say!

In a haste, Intelligente salutes, his friendly yellow eyes changing to intimidating and angry red eyes. Chris sees Hope trapped.

CHRIS: Hope! (he rushes to try to save her): Don’t worry, Hope!

HOPE: Chris, don’t!

Chris touches the cage and burns his hands.

CHRIS: Ah! (Intelligente grabs Chris by the back of his shirt): Hey! Let go of me!

Back with the selected Mobians, they’re still battling the SWATBots.

SONIC: Whew, what a workout!

Antoine charges his sword.

ANTOINE: Allow me to finish zem off!

With a swipe of his sword, he releases a traveling energy slash that cuts through multiple SWATBots in front of him.

BUNNIE: Nice shot!

SONIC: We still got the big guy!

SALLY: We've got to stop it together!

She feels her speed kick in and the four Mobians work together to take down the Mega SWATBot. Bunnie fires her arm cannon while Antoine performs his Spin Blade Ball Attack in conjunction with Sonic and Sally’s Double Spin Dash. The Mega SWATBot is defeated while Antoine is dizzy from his own attack.

ANTOINE: Remind me to practice an exercise zat would make me unable to be so dizzy.

SONIC: That was a neat trick, Ant.

SALLY: Now that they're taken care of, we must go! Chris and Hope are waiting for us!

At the school, the students are doing art in detention.

INTELLIGENTE: For today's art class, we will sketch the illustrious figure of the great Dr Eggman. As you draw, take special note of the Doctor's noble visage and dignified baring.

Eggman experiments with poses.

EGGMAN: Does this pose inspire you? (makes a livelier pose): Or how about something more dynamic?

CHRIS (Disgusted): Ugh, it doesn’t matter how Eggman poses. He’ll always look terrible.

Just then, the four Mobians arrive. Sonic and Sally dash by fast while Bunnie and Antoine fly to Hope’s cage. Chris gasps at seeing Sonic and Sally. The wind from their speed blows the sketch books out of the students’ hands.

DANNY: Huh?

FRANCES: Hey, what was that?

Eggman, however, doesn’t notice.

EGGMAN (Flexing his right arm muscles): Perhaps a pose like a champion?

INTELLIGENTE: You mean a chump! (Eggman grimaces at Intelligente): You’re so busy showing off, you haven’t noticed we’re under attack!

Eggman gets out of his phase and looks to see that Sonic and Sally are indeed present.

SONIC: I always knew you were a poser, Eggman!

Eggman pulls out a phone from the Eggmobile.

EGGMAN: Decoe! I thought I ordered you to send a legion of SWATBots!

DECOE (On the other line): You did! The only ones available were the redesigns by Scratch and Grounder.

EGGMAN (Groaning to himself): Why do I keep those dim bulbs around?

SONIC: For someone with an IQ of 300, you sure make stupid choices, Eggman.

EGGMAN (Growls): Intelligente!

INTELLIGENTE: Yes, sir!

EGGMAN: Get rid of Sonic and Sally!

DANNY & FRANCES: Who are Sonic and Sally?

Chris gasps while Intelligente salutes.

INTELLIGENTE: Yes, sir! Whatever you say!

His mortarboard cap opens up and launches missiles at Sonic and Sally. At that point, Antoine had used his sword to absorb the energy from the cage while Bunnie helps Hope get out.

HOPE: Thanks, guys.

BUNNIE: Don’t fret, sugar. (she hands Hope her EMP weapon): Let's show 'em what we can do!

Hope fires the EMP at Intelligente, instantly disabling him.

HOPE: Quick! Now’s your chance, guys!

Sonic and Sally charge at Intelligente and they both head-butt his chest. The collision causes Intelligente to explode. Sonic and Sally both step out of the smoke and walk to face Eggman.

DANNY: Whoa!

FRANCES: They’re tough!

EGGMAN: Here, Sonic. Your prize.

SONIC: What prize?

EGGMAN: A little reward for your victory.

It's a sticker of Eggman's stupid-looking grinning face.

SONIC: That’s going to be a hard pass for me.

SALLY: Extra hard pass.

EGGMAN: Fine, (to the kids): you take it!

CHRIS: No thanks! Keep it.

FRANCES: Yuck! Who’d want that?

DANNY: Nasty!

EGGMAN: Fine! I’ll wear it myself! (he puts the sticker on his chest over his heart): I’m leaving!

He then hops onto his Eggmobile and starts to take off. Hope, Bunnie, and Antoine join up with Sonic and Sally.

BUNNIE: Y’all okay?

SONIC: No problem, Bunnie. Chris, you better head home. Your parents are worried about you.

CHRIS: Yeah, that's right! Thanks, Sonic.

He starts to run home.

HOPE: Chris, wait!

CHRIS (Stops): What is it, Hope?

HOPE: Your hands are still burnt! How do you think your parents will feel if you came home with burnt hands?

CHRIS: You're right! What can I do?

ANTOINE: Allow me to be of assistance.

Chris shows Antoine his hands and Antoine gently waves his sword over Chris’ hands and they seem to heal themselves.

CHRIS: Thanks, Antoine. I owe you one.

He then makes his way towards home again.

DANNY: They're so cool!

FRANCES: They sure are.

Later, Chris is still running with Hope following as the sun sets. Around a corner, Mr. Stewart sees Chris and Hope running.

MR. STEWART: Hmm. I don’t recall seeing that girl before. And maybe there's more to being a teacher than just handing out homework and taking naps in class.

OFFICER (Sneaking up behind him): Enjoying my burger, bub? (Mr. Stewart sees the police officer and beats a hasty retreat): Hey, get back here! Stop chewing, you thief! One more nibble and I'll call the SWAT team!

The Mobians arrive at the mansion before Chris and Hope, making sure they aren’t seen.

SONIC (Softly): Whew!

ROTOR: Did anyone at the school see you?

SONIC: Well, the students did, but, we needed to take care of Eggman.

BUNNIE: Does it really matter if the kids saw us? We DID save them from Eggman. That should be proof we come in peace.

TAILS: That’s actually a good point.

SALLY: Besides, the public will know about us eventually regardless. We may as well start with the younger generation.

CREAM: Right. And on top of that, Chris is part of that younger generation, since he's a kid.

SIR CHARLES: Be that as it may, among the people of this planet, we’re still strangers. So far, only Chris and his grandpa know we’re from another planet. If the wrong people learn that, it could give them the wrong idea.

ANTOINE: We'll be sure zey know zat we're on ze right side.

SONIC: I’ve been thinking of something.

TAILS: What's that, Sonic?

SONIC: Eggman knows Hope is here now. He probably declared her his niece in front of Chris’ class.

BUNNIE: When we saw her, she was trapped in an energy cage.

SALLY: Since Eggman put Hope in such a prison, that should be proof that Hope’s not on his side.

SONIC: That's a good point, Sal. Plus, I didn't notice anyone giving Hope looks of distrust.

SALLY: Hopefully, when the time comes for this world to know about us, we can make it clear that even though Hope is Eggman’s niece, she’s not on his side.

BUNNIE: Of course.

Cream looks upset about something.

TAILS: What's the matter, Cream?

CREAM: Chris gets to talk to his parents all the time on the phone. I can’t do that!

She cries into Tails’ shoulder.

TAILS: It's okay, Cream. Let it out.

Bunnie sits next to her little cousin.

BUNNIE: We may not know where they are right now, but, do know that we're here for you 'til we can find 'em.

CREAM: I never knew my daddy.

She sniffles.

BUNNIE: Ah may only be yer cousin, but, ah feel that more of our family is out there n' they're waitin' to give ya a big hug. (she hugs her little cousin): But, we're goin' to take care of ya no matter what.

AMY: That’s right, Cream.

TAILS: And if you need us, we'll be here to help.

During the Thorndyke family dinner, the Mobians are watching.

MR. THORNDYKE (Chuckling): Of course I knew that there was absolutely nothing to worry about. You know, when I was your age, I was kept after school a few times myself.

He chuckles.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Oh, I’m sure Chris is much better behaved than you were, darling.

GRANDPA CHUCK: That's for sure. Actually, Chris, your father was more worried about your absence than he lets on, wasn't he, Tanaka?

MR. TANAKA: Well, Mr. Thorndyke was concerned enough to phone the president.

CHRIS: Huh?!

ELLA: And Mrs. Thorndyke called all the TV networks to make it a bulletin on the nightly news.

MRS. THORNDYKE (Gasps): I didn't call ALL of them!

TAILS (Outside): The Thorndykes seem like a really nice family.

AMY: I'm glad Chris made it back home in time.

ROTOR: There’s no place like home.

Sonic and Sally are on the roof gazing at the stars.

SONIC: We’ll get home, Sal. I don’t know when, but, we will.

SALLY: I believe you, Sonic.

SONIC: Until then, we’ll have to make the best of this situation.

SALLY: Absolutely.

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 7

CHRIS: Now remember, Cream, you too, Cheese. Stay inside while I'm gone, okay?

CREAM: Okay.

CHRIS: And Bunnie, you make sure that they do.

BUNNIE: O' course, Chris.

CHRIS: I’ll see you later.

He makes his way to the door while Cream sighs sadly.

BUNNIE: What’s wrong, li’l cousin?

CREAM: I don’t want to stay inside. I want to go outside and play. Or at least be with Tails.

BUNNIE: Aww, ah know, honey.

CREAM: Bunnie?

BUNNIE: Yes, Cream?

CREAM: Is it selfish of me to want to cure my boredom or at least go out of my way to be with Tails?

BUNNIE: O' course not. Ah know things have been hard for a while, but, yer allowed ta have these feelin's.

CREAM: I know that Chris, Mr. Thorndyke, and Hope made those rules for our own good, but, staying inside is so boring!

BUNNIE: Don't ya fret none. O' course he did allow for the patio to be opened fer fresh air. (Cream opens the door to the upstairs patio): See? A little fresh air and sunshine to help perk you right up!

CREAM: It helps a little. But, I still wish I could go to Tails in the garage.

She starts flapping her ears, causing her to leave the ground momentarily, but, Bunnie quickly restrains her.

BUNNIE: Cream, wait! Ya don't want passersby ta see a flyin' rabbit, do ya?

CREAM: But, I’m so bored!

BUNNIE: Ah understand, but, if the wrong Over—ah mean humans see you, it’ll be Area 99 all over again. Ya don’t want that, do ya? (Cream knew that Bunnie was right. She had to flutter back down, even if tears welled in her eyes; neither is aware that Mr. Tanaka is secretly listening while tending the hedges around the mansion): Ah know it’s hard, but, let’s look on the bright side. When Ella n' Mr. Tanaka finally know about us, we’ll have the freedom to roam about the mansion and ya won’t have ta stay cooped up inside all the time.

Cream wipes the tears from her eyes. Bunnie's words were helping Cream to feel better as the two cousins share a warm embrace. Meanwhile, in the garage, Tails seems lonely and bored, too, as he gives a sigh.

AMY: Tails, are you okay? You’re not acting like yourself.

TAILS: Sorry, guys. I know we're supposed to hide inside, but, I want to hang out with Cream outside.

ROTOR: I’m sure Cream’s taking this just as hard as you are.

TAILS: Yeah, you're right. But, what can I do?

SIR CHARLES: Well, you can take your mind off it by helping to examine Antoine’s sword.

TAILS: I could do that. Thank you, Sir Charles.

SIR CHARLES: No need for formalities, youngster. You can call me Uncle Chuck if you want to. You and Sonic are practically brothers.

TAILS: Alright, then, thank you, Uncle Chuck.

Tails, Grandpa Chuck, Rotor, and Sir Charles examine Antoine’s sword.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I admit, I've never seen anything like this before.

SIR CHARLES: Antoine’s sword has absorbed quite a bit of Chaos Energy. Doing so seems to have altered it. I remember that it used to be a regular sword.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Extraordinary!

ROTOR: Hey, Antoine. How’d you know the sword could heal Chris’ burns?

ANTOINE: It happened shortly before we left to find Sonic.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Do tell, please.

Antoine has a flashback to him training in swordsmanship with his father, Armand.

ARMAND: Keep your center of gravity, Antoine. (Antoine obeys): Magnifique!

ANTOINE (Voiceover): I was having my swordplay lesson with my father. He was going to teach me his signature move, the Sword Beam.

ARMAND: Focus your energy into your center.

ANTOINE (Voiceover): But, it wasn’t to be.

An energy blast is fired at a nearby tree. Armand hurries over to plant a new tree in its place, but, before he has a chance, a swarm of Buzz Bombers attacks.

ARMAND: Buzz Bombers! We'll continue our practice another time, Antoine!

Armand and Antoine fight the Buzz Bombers valiantly, but, more keep coming.

ANTOINE: Zere are so many of zem! We can't keep zis up forever! (one manages to hit his hand): Ah! (he loses his footing and accidentally grabs a Power Ring that naturally materialized): Uh oh!

ANTOINE (Voiceover): When I touched zat Power Ring, ze pain in my hand was gone instantly.

ANTOINE: Huh?

He looks at his hand and sees that there isn't even a scar.

ANTOINE (Voiceover): When I turned to tell my father, I saw him laying motionless on ze ground.

ANTOINE: Father... FATHER! (he runs to Armand): Oh, Father... what have I done?!

ANTOINE (Voiceover): No sooner had I seen what became of my father, I began seeing everyzing in a blinding haze.

Flashback Antoine singlehandedly attacks the Buzz Bombers and destroys them one by one, making effort noises as he destroys them. After the last one is destroyed, Antoine comes to his senses.

ANTOINE: Oooh~ my head... (he looks upon Armand’s body): Oh, Father. I promise I will better myself... so zat no one will suffer the same fate you did because of me.

ARMAND (Weakly): Antoine...

ANTOINE (Looks upon his father): Father... you're alive!

ARMAND: I do not have much longer, my son.

ANTOINE: Is zere anyzing I can do for you?

ARMAND: Bury me by your house. And mark my grave with my sword.

ANTOINE (Tears welling in his eyes): I will, Father.

The flashback ends. Grandpa Chuck wipes the tears from his eyes and puts a comforting hand on Antoine's shoulder.

AMY: Your father sounds like a good man, Antoine.

ANTOINE: He was. Wiz him gone, I had to figure out the Sword Beam for myself.

ROTOR: And you're able to do it now?

ANTOINE: I haven’t perfected it yet, but, in memory of my father, I will try.

ROTOR: We know you will.

Sonic looks at a poster. It's of a nearly empty valley, but, there is also a green patch with a lake that's surrounded by flowers.

SONIC: Hmm...

He gets an idea and snags it off of the wall before dashing off.

TAILS: Huh? Where did he go with the poster?

SALLY (Smiling): I have a good idea.

AMY: Huh?

SALLY: He’s getting Cream flowers to help with her boredom.

SIR CHARLES: That sounds like my nephew, alright.

Meanwhile, downstairs in the dining room, Chris was being served an array of foods that, quite honestly, don't look great. His mother walks in.

MRS. THORNDYKE: It's marvelous to be back in the kitchen again. On my movie sets, the chefs won't let me cook a thing. Here are your buttermilk pancakes, dear. Enjoy.

Chris takes one and it crumbles.

ELLA: Oh! I smell something burning!

But, she looks to see that it's only Mrs. Thorndyke's cooking.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Oh, Ella, it’s so good to be home again.

Hope enters, trying her best to fan the fumes.

HOPE: I appreciate your enthusiasm, Mrs. Thorndyke, but, can you please keep focus on one food cooking process at a time?

MRS. THORNDYKE: Ah, Hope. It was an absolute pleasure making your acquaintance last night. I only hope you find our accommodations reasonable.

HOPE: Very much so.

MRS. THORNDYKE: I have an idea! Let's have a party!

CHRIS: Party?

Unknown to Hope and the humans, Cream, Cheese, and Bunnie were listening.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Yes, a dinner party, tonight! We can all dress up and I'm sure Ella can prepare something absolutely scrumptious!

CHRIS: A party sounds like a great idea! Do you think you can invite your brother, Sam, to come over, since he's my favorite uncle?

MRS. THORNDYKE: Why, certainly, Chris! Perhaps I can even call in my seamstress to make Hope a new dress.

HOPE: You don't have to go through all the trouble, Mrs. Thorndyke.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Oh, but, I insist! Ella says you haven’t changed your clothes since you arrived here!

HOPE: If you insist, then, alright.

ELLA: It’s very sweet of you to walk Chris to school, but, today, you’ll have to let him go alone.

HOPE: Yes, ma'am.

Ella takes Hope out of the room.

CREAM: Wow~ A party! This is great~ I love parties!

BUNNIE: Easy, now, Cream.

CREAM: Oh, you're right. I can't even go anyway.

The youngest Mobian sniffles. Sensing her cousin is about to cry, Bunnie quickly thinks of something to cheer her up.

BUNNIE: Tell ya what, us Mobians can have our own party.

CREAM: We can?

BUNNIE: Sure. Ah’ll even give ya tips on how to win Tails’ heart.

CREAM: Ooh~ then, let's have a party for Mobians!

BUNNIE: Let’s go tell the others.

CREAM: Right!

Bunnie takes very light steps due to her roboticized legs as Cream follows. While outside, Cream decides to pick some flowers, humming to herself and feeling happier.

BUNNIE (Thinking to herself): Just let her have this. She needs some entertainment. (she keeps an eye on Cream before entering the garage): It's nice to get some fresh air every once in a while.

She heads up the stairs and enters the lab.

ANTOINE: Welcome back, Bunnie.

BUNNIE: Chris’ mom decided to throw a party.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Lindsey always did get excited about that.

SALLY: But, us Mobians can’t go.

BUNNIE: Ah know, but, ah told Cream we could have our own party.

ROTOR: It would have to be pretty quiet, but, I'm sure we can pull it off.

SALLY: Are you sure about this, Bunnie?

BUNNIE: She’s been lonely n' bored all day. It breaks mah heart seein' her so unhappy.

ANTOINE: I suppose if it's to help ze little one.

Meanwhile, Cream has finished making a flower crown for Tails.

CREAM: Perfect! (she enters the garage and climbs the stairs): 🎶Oh, Tails~🎶

TAILS: Yes, Cream?

CREAM: I made something for you!

She puts the flower crown on his head.

TAILS: Aww, your flower crowns always make me so happy, Cream.

CREAM (Giggles): I know.  I’m going to pick more so I can make one for Bunnie.

She heads outside.

SIR CHARLES: I take it her giving you a flower crown means she likes you?

TAILS: Yeah. Cream only makes flower crowns for someone she really likes a lot.

AMY: She makes them a lot for Tails. It’s really adorable.

SALLY: It really is.

BUNNIE: Back on Mobius, she sent me one ev'ry week.

SALLY: Given that you two are family, it makes sense.

AMY: Cream’s like the little sister I was about to have before my parents died. (Sally comforts Amy): Sally, I want to apologize for acting like a brat when we first met.

SALLY: Oh, you were acting?

AMY (Giggles): Okay, I guess I deserved that.

SALLY: But, thank you for apologizing.

AMY: If I had to surrender Sonic to anyone, it may as well be you.

SALLY: Uh, thanks?

Amy sighs.

BUNNIE: Are ya alright, Amy-girl?

AMY: I’ve been trying to win Sonic’s heart for so long and now that I know his heart belongs to someone else, I just feel kind of upset.

BUNNIE: Aww, it's okay. Sonic may not be with ya, but, he's still yer friend. N' besides, it's possible that you'll find yer special someone.

ANTOINE: Give it time. I understand what you’re going through.

AMY: You do?

ANTOINE: Qui. I have made a complete fuel of myself trying to win Sally’s heart. But, when Sonic left Knothole with a heartfelt goodbye from Sally, I finally understood zat her heart belonged to anozer. I secluded myself to my quarters, hopelessly depressed.

AMY: Whoa. You really DO understand.

ANTOINE: I zought I was doomed to be single for ze rest of my life. But, Bunnie came along and saved me from myself.

BUNNIE: And that's why we're married now.

ANTOINE: Just be patient. You’ll find your true love eventually.

AMY (Sniffles): Thanks, guys.

Meanwhile, Sonic is in the mountains, looking for the place he saw on the poster.

SONIC: Hmm. Not here. I better keep looking. If Cream gets too bored, she might get caught.

So, Sonic rolls up the poster and keeps searching. With Hope and Ella, the young Overlander has been gotten into a dress. Hope feels this is highly unnecessary.

HOPE: Are you sure Mrs. Thorndyke wants me to wear this? I don't mean to complain, but, it seems a bit too much, if you ask me.

ELLA: This is a formal party. You must dress to impress.

HOPE: I will never understand fashion. Though, at least this is comfortable.

Meanwhile, Cream is in Chris’ bedroom and notices a slightly opened drawer in his desk.

CREAM: Oh, my. Chris should really be careful and keep his drawers shut. (she gets a closer look and sees very detailed drawings): Huh? Did Chris draw these?

She looks over them as Bunnie enters.

BUNNIE: Whatcha lookin’ at, Cream?

CREAM: I found these drawings in Chris’ drawer.

BUNNIE: Now, Cream, ya know better than to—(catches a glimpse): Hey, these ARE good. (she sees Chris’ signature on the bottom right corner of each page): "Christopher Thorndyke." He drew these?

CREAM: It looks like it. But, why didn’t he tell any of us?

BUNNIE: Maybe he wasn’t ready?

Chris enters and panics when he sees Cream, Cheese, and Bunnie looking at his comic drawings.

CHRIS (Yelps): Guys, please, put those away!

Cream puts them back.

CREAM: Chris, why didn’t you tell—

CHRIS (Dejected): Please leave my room.

He sheds a tear, though, only Cream notices.

CREAM: What’s wrong, Chris?

CHRIS: Just go.

CREAM: But, Chris, I didn't mean to make you cry.

BUNNIE: Cream, ah can see Chris needs some space. Come on.

Cream sighs sadly and leaves the room with Cheese and Bunnie following her as Bunnie closes the door behind her.

CREAM: Bunnie?

BUNNIE: Yes, Cream?

CREAM: Is Chris mad at me?

BUNNIE: Ah don't think he is. He must have had a reason for not showin' his comics ta us and we didn't know about it. It's better ta give him some time n' he'll come around.

Bunnie, Cream, and Cheese head downstairs and see Mrs. Thorndyke decorating for the human’s party in the entertainment room, humming to herself as she works.

CREAM: Maybe if I help decorate for the Thorndyke’s party, Chris won’t be so mad at me.

BUNNIE: We'll have ta be discrete about it, though. Remember, Mrs. Thorndyke is here.

They wait for Mrs. Thorndyke to leave the room. Meanwhile, Hope enters Chris’ room and sees that he’s upset about something.

HOPE: Chris, what's wrong?

CHRIS: I thought I could trust Cream, Cheese, and Bunnie.

HOPE: That doesn't sound like something you would say. What happened?

CHRIS: They were looking at something very personal to me. Something I keep hidden in the drawers of my desk and don’t want others to know about.

HOPE: Did you tell them before to keep their hands off of your things?

CHRIS (Dejectedly): No.

HOPE: Then, they couldn't have known that what they were doing was wrong.

CHRIS: Now, I feel really bad for kicking them out of my room.

HOPE: You kicked them out of your room?! Your mom, Ella, or Mr. Tanaka could see them!

CHRIS: Ah! I was so upset, I didn't realize! I've got to go talk to them!

HOPE: First, we need to make sure they haven’t been seen by anyone other than your grandpa.

CHRIS: Right. And, Hope? Thanks.

They hurry into the foyer while Mrs. Thorndyke gives positive feedback on Hope’s gown.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Oh, Hope, darling, you look magnificent~!

HOPE: I’m not used to wearing such formal attire.

MRS. THORNDYKE: So, it's a special occasion for you. You're like a sweet little Cinderella.

HOPE: Cinderella?

CHRIS (Quickly): Hope doesn’t read a lot of fairytales, mom. She likes reading more practical things.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Oh, alright~ Now, you two make sure to be ready before the guests arrive, please~

She exits as both Chris and Hope sigh in relief.

HOPE: That was too close.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I feel sorry for dogs. (Grandpa Chuck is walking down the stairs in a two piece suit and tie): How do they stand it? This collar’s killing me!

CHRIS: I didn't know you had clothes like that.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Tanaka says I can’t wear my lab coat to the party. I don’t see why not.

HOPE: Believe me, I can relate.

CHRIS (Whispers): Grandpa, you didn't happen to see where Cream, Cheese, and Bunnie are, did you?

GRANDPA CHUCK: They came to my lab a while ago, but, I haven’t seen them since.

CHRIS (Whispers): Oh, boy. I really have to talk to them.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Did something happen?

They hear Cream humming. The two and Hope glance over to see Cream and Cheese hanging a paper chain decoration on a ceiling lamp with Bunnie supervising.

CHRIS: There they are!

MRS. THORNDYKE (Walking up to them): Is something wrong? (Chris, Grandpa Chuck, and Hope frantically block Cream, Cheese, and Bunnie from her view): Uh, what's the matter with you three?

CHRIS: Uh, everything’s okay, mom. Me, grandpa, and Hope will take care of the rest of the decorating for the party tonight!

MRS. THORNDYKE: But, there's plenty of time.

CHRIS: Yeah, but, you know how time flies when you’re putting on your makeup! Right, grandpa?

GRANDPA CHUCK: Uh... yes and don't forget all of the food that has to be prepared too.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Well, I suppose I’ll go see how Ella’s doing in the kitchen.

Mrs. Thorndyke walks off, leaving Chris, Grandpa Chuck, and Hope to breathe a sigh of relief before Chris and Hope enter the entertainment room.

CHRIS: What are you three doing here?

Chris, Hope, and Bunnie notice Ella coming through the screen door to the laundry room. In a hurry, Bunnie grabs Cream and ducks behind the couch out of Ella's view. Hope does the same with Cheese. Chris ducks as well as Ella enters.

ELLA (Looking up): Mrs. Thorndyke decorates like a little kid.

She giggles to herself as she walks away carrying a full laundry basket.

CHRIS (Once Ella is out of earshot): I’m sorry I told you to leave my room. I didn’t think about you getting caught.

CREAM: And I shouldn't have been snooping around. You have every right to be mad at me. I thought that if I helped decorate for your party, you wouldn’t be as mad at me.

CHRIS: Oh, Cream, I'm not mad at you. It was my fault for not telling you to avoid looking in that drawer.

MR. TANAKA: And it was very thoughtful of you to help us out, Cream.

Chris and Hope are surprised.

CHRIS: Mr. Tanaka, you know about these guys?!

MR. TANAKA: Of course. I’ve been monitoring them from a distance to see if they can be trusted or not.

HOPE: So, you know that I’m from Mobius, too?

MR. TANAKA: Indeed.

CHRIS: So, do you think you can help me and Grandpa keep this a secret for right now?

HOPE: Since he’s kept his knowledge on the Mobians secret from US this long, I’d say he can be trusted with that.

MR. TANAKA: I will.

CHRIS (Sighs): Thanks a lot.

HOPE: In the meantime, Bunnie, you better let the other Mobians know that Mr. Tanaka knows about you so there’s no awkward confusion.

BUNNIE: Got it.

She heads off and Chris and Hope notice Cream and Cheese are gone.

CHRIS: Hold on! Where are Cream and Cheese?

HOPE: We better look for them before Ella or your mom see them.

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Ella is preparing dinner.

MRS. THORNDYKE (Calling): I can't find my green Versace! You didn't send it to the cleaners, did you?

ELLA: No, it should be there!

MRS. THORNDYKE (Calling): I can’t find it!

ELLA (Turning off her electric eggbeater): On my way!

Ella leaves the kitchen. After she left, Cream and Cheese enter and look over the prepared food.

CREAM: Wow, look at all this food. It smells so good. (she decides to help): We can help, Cheese.

She presses a button on the blender. The contents within the blender splash, since there wasn't a lid on it. Cheese turns on the eggbeater. The contents in the bowl splash about as well. Cream and Cheese quickly leave the kitchen before they can get caught. Ella returned from helping Mrs. Thorndyke to see the mishap in the kitchen. Meanwhile, Bunnie arrives at the lab.

BUNNIE: Yer not goin' ta believe this!

SALLY: What is it, Bunnie?

BUNNIE: Mr. Tanaka already knows that we exist n' he hasn't told anyone else about us.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Ah! I had a feeling that was the case. Tanaka always had the uncanny ability to pop up out of nowhere.

BUNNIE: So, Chris told Mr. Tanaka ta keep our existence a secret fer the time bein'.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Seeing that he managed to keep his knowledge on the existence of Mobians secret from us as long as he did, that shouldn’t be a problem.

SALLY: That is a bit of a relief. But, we should still be careful around the others who aren't aware of our existence. (pulling out NICOLE): NICOLE, contact Sonic’s communicator.

NICOLE: Contacting, Sally.

Meanwhile, with Sonic, the blue hedgehog is still looking for the sight on his poster, when his communicator rings.

SONIC: Huh? (he moves the cuff of his glove to reveal it before answering): What’s up, Sal?

SALLY: So, it turns out Mr. Tanaka already knows about us.

SONIC: Someone needs to put a bell on that guy.

SALLY: And he's promised to keep our existence a secret for now.

SONIC: I don’t think that’ll be a problem for him.

SALLY: So, I was calling to let you know that. When do you think you'll be making your way back here?

SONIC: Well, I’m about ten miles away, so, I’d say about half an hour at the latest.

SALLY: Alright, be safe.

Sonic turns off his communicator.

SONIC: Now, where was I?

He spots a rickety old bridge and charges across the old bridge like the classic blue streak he is. Meanwhile, Chris comes across Ella in the kitchen.

CHRIS: Ella, what’s going on?

ELLA: My dinner is a disaster!

Chris looks to see the mishaps and tries to help. Meanwhile, Cream and Cheese happen upon Mrs. Thorndyke, who’s putting on earrings.

MRS. THORNDYKE: This should do, at least for my entrance. (the phone rings and she answers): Hello? (Cream and Cheese secretly listen): What's that? The starring role? I’ll catch the next plane! (but, Mrs. Thorndyke remembers the party she was planning): Actually, I’m having a party for my son. (Cream listens more): I'm afraid I'll have to leave tomorrow morning. (she listens again): Oh, I didn't realize. We have to shoot on location first thing tomorrow morning? I know. You can't put a $100 million production on hold for a party. I'll leave immediately... Goodbye.

Mrs. Thorndyke sadly hangs up and she turns out the lights as Hope arrives, having been looking for Cream.

HOPE (Softly): There you two are. What are you doing here? (Cream points to Mrs. Thorndyke): She looks upset. What happened?

MRS. THORNDYKE: Why does it always have to be this way? I barely have any time to spend with my little boy. I may be a wonderful actress, but, I’m a terrible mother. (crying): Please forgive me, Christopher!

HOPE (Sadly): Poor Mrs. Thorndyke. Even she's having a hard time with this arrangement, too.

MRS. THORNDYKE: Hope. I need you to assist Ella in telling my son that I have to leave.

HOPE: I know it's not going to be easy for them to hear, but, I will, Mrs. Thorndyke.

She first walks down the hall with Cream and Cheese in her arms.

CREAM (Softly): It's sad to hear what Mrs. Thorndyke is going through.

HOPE: It sure is, Cream. But, she’s a better mother than she gives herself credit for. A truly terrible mother would take the starring role of a movie in a heartbeat. She feels genuine remorse for not having the luxury of a choice. By that measure, she’s a good mother.

CREAM: You’re right, Hope.

HOPE: Shh! Ella’s coming!

Cream covers her mouth as Ella enters.

ELLA: Hope, what’s the matter, dear?

HOPE (Deep inhale and exhale): I just heard that Mrs. Thorndyke got off of the phone... she was offered the starring role in a movie and she has to go right away.

ELLA: Oh, dear. Chris is going to be very upset to hear that.

HOPE: I know, so, I need your help with telling him with me. We’ll split up and cover more ground.

ELLA: Of course, dear.

While Ella goes one way, Hope goes the other and puts Cream and Cheese down.

HOPE: Cream, Cheese, I really need you two to stay hidden. Chris is still looking for you as we speak.

CREAM: We will.

Meanwhile, Chris enters the lab.

CHRIS: Cream? Cheese?

BUNNIE: They ain’t here, Chris.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Weren’t they with you?

CHRIS: Are you kidding me?! Why can’t they just stay in one place?!

GRANDPA CHUCK: It's going to be okay. Let's all split up and each one of us will search a different part of the house until we find them.

HOPE: That won’t be necessary.

BUNNIE: Hope, yer back. Why won't it be necessary?

HOPE: I found them and told them to stay hidden. I also have some upsetting news for Chris.

CHRIS: What? What's wrong?

HOPE: Your mom was offered the starring role in a movie and had to leave.

CHRIS: What?!

HOPE: If it’s any consolation, she was very upset she didn’t have the luxury of a choice.

CHRIS (Sighing sadly): Did she already leave?

HOPE: If my calculations are correct, she’s already getting into her limousine.

CHRIS: I have to go. I've got to at least say goodbye to her!

He runs out of the garage.

HOPE: He at least knows the truth now.

By the time Chris reaches the front door, his mom’s limousine has already left the front gates. He sighs sadly.

ELLA: Hope told you?

CHRIS: She did and I was hoping I'd come out to say goodbye.

ELLA: Mrs. Thorndyke feels terrible for leaving.

CHRIS: Hope told me that, too.

Meanwhile, Mr. Stewart is driving to the Thorndyke mansion. He picks up a small black box from his pocket.

MR. STEWART: This’ll keep an eye on those animals.

Soon, he arrives at the mansion. Inside, Chris is sitting sadly on the couch in the entertainment room.

ELLA: It is alright, Chris. I'm going to miss her, too.

Mr. Stewart rings the doorbell and Mr. Tanaka answers.

MR. STEWART: I’m Chris’ homeroom teacher, Mr. Stewart.

MR. TANAKA: Welcome, sir.

CHRIS: Hi, come in.

MR. STEWART: How are you, Chris?

He’s let in.

ELLA: Please sit down. (Mr. Stewart looks at the paper chain decoration that Cream hung on the lampshade earlier): Do you like it? Mrs. Thorndyke isn’t only an actress, but, an artist, too.

MR. STEWART: Oh, it's great. I can't wait to meet Chris' mother and give her my compliments.

CHRIS: She’s not here.

MR. STEWART: Oh, well, that is too bad. I was really looking forward to meeting her in person.

Hope enters.

HOPE (Gasps, then whispers to Chris): What's he doing here?

CHRIS: He wanted to come over and learn more about me. What’s wrong with that?

HOPE (Whispers): He might find out about the Mobians!

CHRIS (Whispering to Hope): But, they’re all hiding.

The sound of pottery breaking is heard outside.

TAILS (Peeking out from a cupboard): Hello?

ELLA: What’s going on?

Outside, Ray hides in the bushes while Grandpa Chuck is cleaning up the debris.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Sorry, Ella. I was just leaning out the window and I fell out and knocked the pots down.

ELLA: I don’t know what you think you’re up to, but, you better be on your best behavior! Chris’ teacher is here!

GRANDPA CHUCK: Oh! I better come in and say hello!

He climbs in through the window.

ELLA: Why can’t you use the front door like everyone else?

GRANDPA CHUCK: One way in is as good as another.

Chris notices Cream’s shoes under window curtains and gasps in surprise.

ELLA: What’s wrong, Chris?

CHRIS: Uh.. uh... (flops onto the couch): It's nothing really.

HOPE (Whispering to Chris): You saw them, didn’t you?

CHRIS (Whispers): Yes. I couldn't help but react.

HOPE (Whispers): I should’ve been more specific on where to hide.

MR. STEWART: My, this is certainly an extraordinary painting.

Meanwhile, Sonic arrives with a bouquet of flowers and quietly signals Cream.

CREAM (Softly): Thanks, Sonic! (Hope and the Thorndyke mansion residents hear as Cream comes out of the curtain, her eyes were closed, and she's carrying Cheese in her arms; she's unaware that Ella is with them): Guess what? Sonic went out and picked a whole bunch of pretty flowers just for me. (noticing Ella): You can have some too if you want...

Ella picks up Cream and looks in utter disbelief.

ELLA: I-is this little animal talking?!

HOPE (Grabbing Cream): Oh, that’s just my animatronics project.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Yeah, talking animals. What a joke!

MR. TANAKA: Yes, that’s some joke.

MR. STEWART: Mm, I love this painting.

HOPE: Thanks for finding my project, Ella.

ELLA: Um, you're welcome?

HOPE: I’ll just hold onto it for a bit. (Cream makes an effort to look more "robotic” as Hope whispers so only Cream hears): When I say “off,” go limp. (Cream gives a symbol that only Hope could see): I’ll just turn it off now.

She presses on the top of Cream’s head and Cream goes limp.

VOICE: Hey, hey!

Entering the room was Sam, the S Team Officer Sonic met when he first came to Earth. Instead of wearing his uniform, he was adorned in casual clothing.

SAM: Ha ha, hey! Where’s the party?

CHRIS: Hi, Uncle Sam. This is my teacher, Mr. Stewart.

MR. STEWART: I understand you’re involved in the Highway Patrol somehow.

SAM: Well, I don't like to brag, but, I'm the leader of the S Team.

GRANDPA CHUCK: That statement is only HALF correct.

MR. STEWART: Really?

CHRIS: My uncle drives fast. No other car can catch him. That’s why he’s called the Speed King. You came up with that yourself, didn’t you?

SAM: Sure. A little self-promotion never hurt anybody. (he laughs heartily): Let's cut the chitchat and get this party moving. It's too slow!

ELLA: And your mouth is too fast.

SAM: I can't help that I like speedier things. I've always been fast. I even beat the doctor to the delivery room. I was the only kid in town to have a five-speed transmission in my baby carriage.

HOPE (Thinking to herself): I didn’t think it was possible, but, there’s someone even MORE full of himself than Sonic.

SAM: I admit it, I like living in the fast lane. Even when I'm in the supermarket, no matter how many items I have, I use the express checkout. I can't even walk my dog, I make him run. (he laughs, but, then speaks in a serious tone): There's only one guy who's faster. I never saw anyone or anything move that fast. But, don't worry, I'll catch up with him someday.

MR. STEWART: Did you happen to see what he looked like?

SAM: You may think this is weird, but, he looked like a blue hedgehog. He even had a spike-(he spots Sonic grinning and waving on a tree branch; Sam stands up and points out the window): Hey, there he is! (Sonic dashes off before anyone else sees him; the others look away from the window, but, Sam still tries to convince them): It was the blue hedgehog I was telling you about!

MR. STEWART: Sorry. I was just admiring this painting.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I didn't see anything. Did you?

MR. TANAKA: Perhaps your eyes were playing tricks on you.

SAM: But, I'm telling you, I saw it! You saw it too, Chris. Didn't you?

CHRIS: No. What about you, Hope?

HOPE: The only blue thing I saw was the sky.

SAM: I saw it! My eyes don’t lie! That thing waved at me and ran off!

ELLA: You know, they thought I was crazy when I heard that animal talking.

SAM: Animal talking? Well, I didn't hear it say anything, but, I'm sure it could understand what I said. We both saw the same creature. That proves that I'm not crazy.

ELLA: The animal I heard is over there.

Sam opens his eyes to see Cream in Hope's arms, but, Cream is still acting limp.

HOPE (Nervously): I’ll just go and put this away.

CHRIS: You know, I'm sorry Mom can't be here for the party. But, she got a phone call and had to leave to make a movie. I was pretty upset. Mr. Stewart was looking forward to meeting her, but, she went away before he even got here.

HOPE: Now, Chris, before you say anything else, I want you to think about it VERY carefully. You know your mom didn’t have the luxury of a choice and wanted to say goodbye.

SAM: That does sound like my sister alright. She always was the sympathetic one.

Hope takes Cream outside the room.

CREAM (Softly): I'm sorry about before, Hope.

HOPE (Softly): It’s okay, Cream. I was at least able to cover for—

At that moment, Tails and Amy come out the door Hope just used to exit the entertainment room.

TAILS: Cream!

Hope looks at the two, utterly flabbergasted.

HOPE (Softly): What are you two doing?!

TAILS: We didn’t know where Cream was hiding, so, we went to look for them.

Hope pinches her bridge.

HOPE: You two just walked through the entertainment room while Mr. Stewart, Ella, and Chris’ uncle were in there!

AMY: Oh, my gosh! We were focused on finding our friend we completely forgot!

HOPE: I told you guys to stay put!

TAILS: We're sorry.

HOPE (Sighs): You know what, it’s fine. Ella’s already seen and heard Cream moving on her own. At this point, there’s no turning back. We’ll wait until Mr. Stewart and Chris’ uncle leave and let Ella in on your existence.

They carefully listen for Sam and Mr. Stewart’s departure.

CHRIS: Well, Uncle Sam, I hope you can come and visit me again.

SAM: Sure, but, you know me, Chris. It’ll have to be a quick visit!

MR. STEWART: Yeah, I think I've seen enough, too. (he looks at the box and sighs): I'd better get going. I have quite a bit of homework to grade. Please give your mother my regards and tell her I hope we meet soon.

He walks to his car and drives away.

SAM (In his car): Later, guys. See you in my rear-view mirror!

He drives off, too. Chris, Grandpa Chuck, and Mr. Tanaka go back inside. They see Ella sitting on the couch, utterly confused.

ELLA: Oh, dear. I'm working too hard. I'm hearing things.

MR. TANAKA: Master Chris, would it not be wise to let Ella in on your little secret, too?

HOPE (Walking in): I'm going to explain it to her as well.

CHRIS: Okay.

The four walk up to Ella.

HOPE: Ella, let us explain and hopefully it will put your mind at ease.

Later that night, Ella has been informed of the Mobians and introduced to each of them.

ELLA: So, the only thing nutty in my kitchen is my pecan pie. What a relief. (to Cream): I'm so glad you don't have to hide from me anymore, sweetie.

CREAM (Helping Ella in the kitchen with Bunnie and Antoine): Yeah. We can be friends and help you around the house.

ELLA: You're all such dears. (tears well in her eyes): I'm sure your mother misses you terribly.

She sobs, wiping the tears from her eyes.

CREAM: Don’t worry. Sonic and the others will find a way back to Mobius. Right, Bunnie?

BUNNIE: Right.

ANTOINE: And until zen, we can help you to take care of us.

ELLA: I will help, too, I promise.

SONIC: Now that Ella knows we’re here, Cream doesn’t have to be cooped up inside anymore.

CHRIS: Right.

Chris looks upset about something.

SONIC: Is something wrong?

CHRIS: It’s my fault Cream and Cheese were roaming the house before the party started.

SONIC: Hey, you were trying to keep our existence a secret so that we wouldn't be put in harm’s way. You were just looking out for us is all.

CHRIS: No. I told Cream to leave my room after she... looked in one of my drawers. I was upset that she did and Hope made me realize I hadn’t told her not to look in that drawer.

SONIC: Well, you can always apologize to her.

CHRIS: I did, but, I still feel awful.

He heads to his room.

SALLY: I wonder what was in that drawer?

SONIC: Whatever it is, Chris doesn't want us looking at it. If he feels confident enough to tell us himself, he can.

Cream follows Chris with a crown of flowers.

CREAM: Hello, Chris. I made this specially for you. Do you want to put it on?

CHRIS: You’re not going to laugh at what you saw?

CREAM: Of course not. Why would I? I think they're very well done.

Bunnie enters as well.

BUNNIE: She's right, Chris. Ya've got a real eye fer detail.

CHRIS: Thanks, but, I just don’t feel I did that good.

BUNNIE: Chris, don't try to compare yerself ta other artists. Ya have yer own vision n' if yer happy with yer efforts, that's all that really matters. Besides, art ain't really truly appreciated unless it's shared ta others.

CHRIS: I like drawing comics and sculpting with clay. But, I don’t know if others will like them. I just don’t think I can take that kind of rejection.

BUNNIE: Chris, others judge themselves every day on their own talents. But, the ones who truly support ya will make sure ya know that ya ARE a talent. Tell ya what, how about we show the other Mobians n' Hope what ya drew? That way, ya’ll at least have friends ta show support.

Chris is hesitant.

CHRIS: I don't know. Are you sure it's a good idea?

BUNNIE: Chris, ya’ll never feel better unless ya get this off yer chest.

CHRIS (Deep inhale then deep exhale): You're right, Bunnie. Let's go, then. (Cream puts the crown of flowers on Chris’ head): Thanks, Cream.

SONIC: Consider yourself lucky. Cream only makes flower crowns for those she really likes a lot.

CHRIS: How much of that did you hear?!

SONIC: The whole thing.

SALLY: And do know that we'll be supporting you no matter what. That's what friends do.

CREAM: I have to give Ella her crown first.

BUNNIE: Go ahead, sweetie.

Cream leaves the room and goes to the entertainment room, where Mighty is lifting the couch while Rotor’s sitting on it and Ella vacuums underneath.

ELLA: Thank you very much.

MIGHTY: No problem. Having Rotor on the couch makes it a real workout.

ROTOR: Hey!

ELLA: You must be one of the strongest Mobians there is.

MIGHTY: I don’t like to brag, but, I’m basically the bronze medal of the strongest Mobians.

ROTOR: Oh, brother.

Cream arrives, gently tugging Ella's dress.

ELLA: Yes, Cream?

CREAM: I made this for you.

She gives her the flower crown.

ELLA: Aww, that’s so sweet!

CREAM: If you'd like to try it on, you can.

She sweetly smiles as Ella kneels down and Cream gently places it on her head.

ROTOR: I hate to break up the moment, but, are you going to finish vacuuming under the couch? I don’t want to be used for weight-lifting any longer than I need to.

ELLA: Oh, yes, of course.

After Ella has finished vacuuming, Hope and the Mobians are gathered in Chris’ room.

ANTOINE: What eez going on?

CHRIS: Cream and Bunnie convinced me to share something with you guys.

RAY: W-what is it?

Chris removes the drawer Cream looked into earlier. The Mobians and Hope look into the drawer to see Chris' artwork while Chris braces himself for the feedback, fearing the worst.

SALLY: Oh, my... these are incredible!

CHRIS: They are?

SONIC: Yeah! The characters are well structured. And look at these backgrounds!

CHRIS: I haven’t even shown my own mom these.

ROTOR: Well, you should. I'm sure she'd love to see them.

CHRIS: But, what if she doesn’t?

HOPE: Well, how will you know if you don’t show her?

CHRIS: You're right. So, when she next comes home, I'll show her.

AMY: That’s the spirit, Chris.

CHRIS: Thanks, guys.

Unknown to them, Grandpa Chuck has been listening in.

GRANDPA CHUCK (Thinking): He’s taken a big step to coming out of his shell.

SONIC: It's what we do, bud.

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 8

Eggman puts his deck of cards into his dashboard and flips the switch. The result is a bird/carrier plane-like robot.

EGGMAN: Perfect!

He laughs wickedly. The robot is prepped for launch and it takes off, making its way on its gruesome journey. Meanwhile, at Area 99...

OPERATOR: What was that? Some kind of rocket maybe?

COMMANDER: What’s the word?

OPERATOR (Over intercom): An unknown object was spotted about 5 minutes ago. I'm afraid that's all we know, sir.

COMMANDER: That Eggman is up to something. I just wish I knew what. (meanwhile, in space, satellites are working; one adjusts its lenses): Has it been identified?

OPERATOR: I’m afraid not, sir.

Back in Eggman's lair...

EGGMAN: Well now, time to have a little fun! (in space, the robot opens its mouth to reveal a vacuum tube-like device): Super Sweeper!

The robot starts working, absorbing things into it. At Area 99, an alarm starts to blare.

COMMANDER: What’s going on?!

OPERATOR: Communication's cut off! Sir, the satellite! It's-

COMMANDER: Gone?!

OPERATOR: Yes, sir.

COMMANDER: This can’t be! It’s impossible!

Back in space, various space machinery is being absorbed by the robot Eggman sent out. At Eggman’s lair...

EGGMAN: Just look at all my shiny new toys! Ah well. Too bad I have to grind them up into new robot parts. Who knew recycling could be fun and cost effective?

At the Thorndyke Mansion, Sonic and Sally are on the roof while Ray is cleaning the windows as Mr. Tanaka mows the lawn. Inside, Cream is watching television.

HOPE: What did you say this was called again?

CHRIS: Next Show, after their mascot character, Next.

NEXT: You know what I like to do best, boys and girls? I like to dance! Dancing's lots of fun and it's great exercise too. Hey, I've got an idea! Why don't we all dance?

Cream dances along with him.

HOPE: So, does he just dance and encourage children to do the same?

CHRIS: Pretty much, yeah.

HOPE: You humans seem to have very lax standards for entertainment.

CHRIS: Well, this is mostly to entertain little kids. Besides, according to internet reviews, there’s adults that watch it, too.

HOPE: I’ll never understand humans.

Ella and Amy both enter the room with plates of apple pies while Bunnie and Antoine enter with plates of their own.

ELLA: Snack time, everyone~

Ray flies in through the window.

AMY: Ella, Bunnie, and Antoine taught me how to make homemade apple pies.

ELLA: I think Amy has quite the knack for baking. With her, Antoine, and Bunnie, I may just be out of a job soon.

BUNNIE: Don't be silly. We wouldn't put ya out o' a job. Ah'm sure the Thorndyke's still depend on ya.

AMY: I wonder if Sonic and Sally will try some.

TAILS (Licking his lips): They can have the other one!

He grabs the pie in front of him.

AMY: Oh, no, you don’t! That’s for Sonic and Sally.

She swipes the pie Tails grabbed from him, accidentally throwing him into the tv screen.

CREAM (Gasping and running to the TV): Tails, are you alright?!

TAILS (Facing her with blood trickling down his nose): I’ve been better.

Cream tends to his wounds.

AMY: Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry, I don't know what came over me!

Cream takes Tails to the couch, not even noticing or caring that the screen is statics.

CHRIS: So, the TV is a bit muddled right now. Maybe this will help. (he presses a button on his remote; the screen is still statics): Okay, I guess that didn't work.

BUNNIE: Now, Cream can’t watch her program.

CREAM: That can wait. Tails is hurt now.

TAILS: With you here to help me, Cream, I'm already feeling a lot better.

Sonic and Sally enter the room and see Cream tending to Tails.

SONIC: Little buddy, are you okay? What's going on here?

TAILS: I’ve been better.

AMY: I... kind of threw him into the tv. I didn’t mean to!

BUNNIE: Ah can confirm it was indeed an accident. Though, with Tails collidin' inta the screen, the tv's on the fritz.

HOPE: Hmm. Let me try something.

ELLA: Go ahead, please.

Hope pulls out a satellite cellphone and gets no reception.

HOPE: It doesn't have anything to do with the bump. There's no reception on my phone, either.

SALLY: No satellite reception on such a clear day?

Just then, they hear a laugh coming from outside the window. It's Bokkun. Ella and Amy clear the table as Bokkun lands on it and he puts his hands on his hips. Chris and Sonic back up a bit, knowing what's to come.

BOKKUN: That was a pretty disappointing welcome if you don’t mind me saying. (he pulls a mini tv monitor out of his bag and sets it on the table): Got a brand-new message for Sonic from Dr. Eggman, so, listen up good.

The monitor turns on revealing Dr. Eggman in front of a green screen.

EGGMAN: Greetings, my little warthog! Sorry it's been so long since my last message, but, I've been such a little busy bee. Take a look!

The screen displays the robot.

CHRIS: That thing is swallowing satellites!

HOPE: I should have figured my uncle was involved!

EGGMAN: Don't get any ideas, Sonic. After all, I'm only having a little fun. So, stay out of it if you know what's good for you! The same goes for you, my meddlesome niece! As we speak, my E-90 is floating above the stratosphere, collecting all manner of space junk so that I can make more and more of my ever so helpful mechanical friends.  Well, what do you say to that? (laughs): Pretty soon, you might be obsolete, Bokkun!

Bokkun starts bawling.

CHRIS: What's E-90?

HOPE: The robot my uncle deployed. (she pulls out a tablet and brings up data files on E-90. Chris and the Mobians gasp): According to the Robopedia, it was designed to operate in space.

SALLY: Eggman did say that the E-90 is floating above the stratosphere.

CREAM: What’s a stratosphere?

Grandpa Chuck enters the room.

GRANDPA CHUCK: A layer of air miles above us. It's as high as the sky. (he picks up Bokkun): We can do without you.

HOPE (As he takes Bokkun outside): Mr. Thorndyke, be careful because Bokkun... (an explosion is heard outside as Hope continues flatly): Never mind.

BOKKUN: Gotcha!

He laughs as Grandpa Chuck reenters the scene, covered in explosion soot.

CHRIS: Looks like that robot’s—

HOPE (Interrupting): This isn’t the time for puns, Chris! My uncle has a robot causing problems miles above the reach of even Fly-Type Mobians.

CHRIS: I bet the Tornado could get up there.

HOPE: Chris, the Tornado is a bi-plane. It’s not built to reach such heights.

CHRIS: You're right. But, there has to be something we can do!

HOPE: Hmm. Well, we do have a fair number of Fly-Type Mobians.

SALLY: We would have to make sure they're able to survive in the vacuum of space.

SONIC: Me and Rotor have been to space without space suits before and we were fine.

ROTOR: Oh, yeah.

SIR CHARLES: Chaos Energy has many unusual properties. One is the ability to protect Mobians from the vacuum of space.

CHRIS: So, do you think it's possible that if the Fly-Types had a Chaos Emerald, they'd be able to survive in space?

SIR CHARLES: Chaos Energy is a Mobian’s lifeforce. Some Mobians have more Chaos Energy than others.

CHRIS: I see.

SIR CHARLES: Mobians with large amounts of Chaos Energy can manifest it in the form of special abilities.

SONIC: Anyone else get the impression we’re really taking our time with this?

TAILS: Sonic is right! We've got to do something and Eggman is still collecting things from space!

HOPE: I have a plan.

SALLY: Let’s hear it, please.

HOPE: Tails and Sonic will take the Tornado and try to reach E-90. With Tails flying the Tornado, Bunnie and Ray are our strongest Fly-Types left. So, they can help give it a boost.

BUNNIE: Brilliant!

CREAM: Can’t I come, too?

HOPE: No, Cream. You have to stay here in case something goes wrong.

CREAM: Okay. It's not going to be easy, but, I will.

SALLY: Fly-Types can’t manage alone. Sonic and Mighty will need to fill Speed and Power.

HOPE: Understood.

CHRIS: I thought Ray was a Balance-Type.

HOPE: We’ll discuss that later.

MIGHTY: For now, we've got an E-90 to empty out and send packing!

Tails jumps into the Tornado’s pilot seat. The others assigned to the job also enter the Tornado. Bunnie and Ray fly alongside it as Tails takes off.

TAILS: It won’t be easy, but, we can do it!

Sonic and Mighty are riding the top wing with Sally in the back seat.

SALLY: I have a feeling things will go wrong.

MIGHTY: You have a right to worry.

SONIC: But, we got to at least try.

TAILS: And we'll be supporting each other no matter what!

They take to the sky while the ones staying behind wish the team luck. Cream clasps her hands together.

CREAM: Be safe, everyone. Especially you, Tails.

Soon, the Tornado team is flying above through the atmosphere. At Eggman’s lair, the doctor learns the Mobians are making their move.

EGGMAN: Huh?! E-90, Zap those meddlers!

E-90 readies its cannons.

MIGHTY: Guys, look out!

He uses his shell to reflect some blasts. The heroes fly closer to E-90.

SONIC: Try getting in closer!

E-90 attempts to trap them in its jaws, but, in vain.

TAILS: We move too fast for it!

SALLY: This isn’t the time for bragging, Tails!

Tails turns the plane back around back to E-90.

TAILS: Sonic, Mighty, I have an idea. (the back compartment of E-90 opens up to release small pieces of debris, which Bunnie decimates with her cannon; the Tornado is then able to fly up to the "eye" of E-90 and fly circles around it; this causes E-90 to roll in the air, trying to follow the Tornado; at Eggman’s lair, Eggman finds himself dizzy from keeping track, groaning to himself; back at the fight, Tails stops the plane from spinning): Let’s do it!

He starts shooting at E-90, damaging its turret. Tails then turns around and fires more. No detectable damage is done. E-20 then turns and flies away from the Tornado.

SONIC: Stay with it!

TAILS: Everybody hold on tight!

E-90 deploys a container. The Mobians exclaim and dodge out of the way as the container flies past them. The Tornado flies up to E-90. At Eggman’s lair, the doctor overcame his dizziness.

EGGMAN: Time for some fireworks!

E-90 fires missiles.

SONIC: Mighty! Did you make any Tether Rings?

MIGHTY: Yeah!

He hands one to Sonic.

SONIC: Thanks! (Sonic curls up into a ball and Mighty picks him up before throwing him at an oncoming missile; Sonic jumps off of it and jumps onto the next one, throwing them off course; the link of the Tether Rings pulls him back): Whew. Thanks.

A redirected missile hits E-90.

EGGMAN: You think you're so smart, do you?! Super Sweeper!

E-90 opens its mouth and starts to absorb, trying to pull the Tornado in with its powerful suction ability.

SONIC: It’s sucking us in!

Tails strains trying to pull on the thruster in an effort to reverse the plane. Ray and Bunnie each grab a side and give it a boost.

TAILS: Thanks, guys! (E-90 starts vacuuming the clouds): I don’t believe it!

RAY: This is b-bad!

Suddenly, the engine sputters.

TAILS: Oh, no! (the plane then starts to go down; despite their best efforts, Bunnie and Ray can’t stop it from falling; Tails struggles to pull the thruster upwards, in an effort to keep them from crashing into the sea; he finally turns the engine on in time): That was too close!

They head back to the mansion. That night, Sonic and Sally are on the roof again.

SONIC: We’ll need a different strategy.

SALLY: Yes, but, what can we do?

SONIC: I think the problem is that the Tornado’s too slow.

SALLY: And E-90’s suction power is greater than anything we could have prepared for.

In the garage, Rotor, Hope, Sir Charles, Tails, and Grandpa Chuck are having a meeting with each other.

GRANDPA CHUCK: It appears our foe is more powerful than we thought.

HOPE: We need to develop a new strategy.

TAILS: Right. But, given what we took as a learning experience, what can we do?

SONIC: I have an idea, Tails. (Tails turns around to see Sonic and Sally entering the garage): One problem is that the Tornado’s too slow.

SALLY: So, Sonic was thinking that if the Tornado was much faster, it would be able to catch up to and stop E-90.

TAILS: I could try.

HOPE: Could you, Tails?

TAILS: Maybe, I could use the Chaos Emerald. But, that could be a problem. One Chaos Emerald has more power than 100 Power Rings and it only takes a tenth of that to power the Tornado, so, all the extra energy wouldn’t have anywhere to go, which could result in an overload.

HOPE: So, what do you think?

GRANDPA CHUCK: We’ll need to find a way to burn off the emerald’s excess energy.

TAILS: I wouldn't want to just waste it.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Do you have any better ideas?

TAILS: Well, we could install a backup engine. That way, with two engines instead of one, the energy would have another outlet.

HOPE: Hmm. In theory, that should work.

TAILS: If we want to stop Dr. Eggman, it's worth giving a try.

SIR CHARLES: To install the backup, we’d have to rebuild the whole plane. And even if Tails has the know-how to do that, we don’t exactly have the resources.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Actually, I may have more than enough resources. Come over here.

Grandpa Chuck shows Tails, Hope, Rotor, and Sir Charles to what he wanted them to see after using an elevator.

TAILS: What’s this?

GRANDPA CHUCK: My secret laboratory.

He turns on the lights and Hope and the present Mobians are overwhelmed by the sheer number of resources available.

HOPE: Where did you get all of these?!

GRANDPA CHUCK: I used to be an engineer for Area 99. They gave me materials to work with, I gave them high-tech spy equipment. By the time I retired, I had more materials than I knew what to do with.

ROTOR: No kidding! With this much material, we don’t even need to rebuild the Tornado! We can just build a new plane!

TAILS: It’s incredible!

GRANDPA CHUCK: Unfortunately, Earth technology is rather primitive by Mobian and Overlander standards, so, we’ll need parts from the Tornado.

TAILS: If it's what it takes to stop Eggman, then I'm willing to give it a try.

HOPE: It’s a good thing Intelligence-Types are working on this.

GRANDPA CHUCK: You keep mentioning different types. I’m beginning to feel rather curious.

HOPE: When E-90 is defeated, I'll be certain to explain the types to you, Chris, and the other staff.

They all get to work designing the rebuild.

TAILS: We could connect it here.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Like this? (later, they're working on the build. Late at night, Hope is still wide awake while the others are ready to turn in): Hope, you should turn in for the night.

HOPE: I’ve been asleep in stasis for 12 years. I believe I’ve had my fill for a while.

GRANDPA CHUCK: If you say so.

HOPE: It’s nearly finished, anyway.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Very well.

By sunrise, some of the other members are seen sleeping on the couch, with Cream nestled close to Tails. Suddenly, the television is turned back on, only the reception is much clearer.

CREAM (Stirring): Huh? (a logo for a channel called EggTV appears on the screen; Cream grows worried): Tails?

TAILS (Starts to stir): What's up, Cream?

CREAM: Eggman’s taken over the TV!

EGGMAN (On screen): Good morning! (the others wake up with a start, with Ray being literally scared out of his shoes): It's time for the one and only "Dr. Eggman Show!"

MIGHTY: That dirty ba—(remembering children are present):—lding old man!

EGGMAN (VO): This program is coming to you live via satellite, from a beautiful island in the Southern sea.

BUNNIE: Eggman is a lot of things, but, subtle ain’t one of 'em.

EGGMAN: Today's show is brought to you by the amazing Super Sweeper, for a cleaner safer stratosphere.

At Eggman’s lair, Decoe points a camera at Eggman.

BOCOE: Cue!

Eggman is holding a microphone.

EGGMAN: Who's the most brilliant scientist in all the universe? Why, it's Dr. Eggman!

BUNNIE: Good at singin’ ain’t one of 'em, neither.

Outside, the E-90 is up in the air again. Area 99 is quick to respond.

OPERATOR: Sir, the object appears to have been launched!

COMMANDER: Then, it appears we have no choice. We have to launch a counterattack.

OPERATOR: Yes, sir.

At the Thorndyke mansion...

TAILS: Hey, Sonic!

Sonic jumps off the roof.

SONIC: Did you guys finish?

TAILS: Hope did.

SONIC: Glad to hear it.

Later, all the Mobians are lined up by the garage. Grandpa Chuck presses a button, and the Garage elevates to reveal the newly reworked Tornado, which looks more like a jet.

TAILS: Presenting, Tornado X! I wanted to call it the X Tornado, but, I’m a little on the fence about it. (the others are amazed): What do you guys think? X Tornado or Tornado X?

SALLY: Do you think maybe we could decide that after we take down E-90?

TAILS: Right. Hope, do you have a Fire Shield capsule?

HOPE: I do, yes.

TAILS: Good. You’ll be on the test flight with Sonic, Sally, and me.

HOPE: Understood.

SONIC: But, the Tornado only seats two.

SALLY: Uh, Sonic, I can see two canopies.

SONIC: Alright, then.

In space, different satellites are in position while E-90 opens its mouth.

COMMANDER: Fire laser! (the satellites fire lasers, but, E-90 is protected by a shield): What?!

EGGMAN: A feeble attempt at best, my friends. Come on, Super Sweeper! Do your stuff!

E-90 vacuums the satellites.

SONIC: Alright, let's go, guys!

HOPE: I’ll be Tails’ co-pilot.

TAILS: Thanks, Hope. (Tails, Hope, Sonic, and Sally board): Ready for takeoff! (the plane rolls to the runway; Grandpa Chuck even presses a button to move the palm trees out of the way): Everyone buckled up?

HOPE, SONIC, & SALLY: Yes!

TAILS: Okay! Whatever we’re agreeing to call this thing ready for takeoff!

Tails pulls on the dual thrusters and they take off towards the stratosphere.

AMY (After the take off): Did he seriously just say that?

GRANDPA CHUCK: I guess so, but, what can you do?

SIR CHARLES: I’m surprised Chris didn’t ask to come along.

ROTOR: Well, I managed to convince him to sit out the test runs. He doesn’t have any special abilities or experience in combat to compensate.

BUNNIE: It might not have been easy, but, it was the right thing to do.

ROTOR: I was actually surprised by how easy it was. He seemed pretty eager to avoid Eggman if he could help it. Not that he needs an excuse, of course.

ANTOINE: I see.

In Chris’ room, Chris is making a clay sculpture of the new plane.

CHRIS: Hmm. (he has flashbacks of falling from the Eggmobile and shivers uneasily): After that, I think I had enough excitement to last a while.

He continues to sculpt. At Eggman’s lair...

DECOE: Sorry to disturb you, Dr. Eggman, but, something is headed straight for E-90, and it's really fast!

EGGMAN: Grr! I suspect my niece has something to do with it! But, no matter! I'll teach them to sneak up on me!

E-90 descends and it launches missiles at the jet. The jet dodges easily. The back canopy opens and Sonic readies to jump out.

SONIC: Let’s do it! (he jumps out and bounds onto the missiles before landing on E-90 and reacting to lasers cannons aimed at him and ready to fire; he jumps while dodging blasts): I! Didn’t! Think! This! Through!

TAILS (Piloting the jet): Don't worry, Sonic! I got your back!

He destroys the laser cannons.

SONIC: Thanks, Tails!

At Eggman’s lair, Eggman is angered.

EGGMAN: Sonic! I'll put an end to that hyperactive hedgehog!

A laser satellite comes out. It fires at the jet, which effortlessly dodges the laser shots.

TAILS: We can’t get close!

Sonic takes a deep inhale and charges at the laser satellite, destroying it effortlessly. He launches himself out of the remains, but, the laser satellite explodes, launching him back at the jet, which he safely lands on as it flies higher with E-90 on its tail.

SALLY: Are you okay, Sonic?

SONIC: I'm alright, Sal. A little shaken up, but, I’m not hurt.

SALLY: How do you manage to stay put on a moving plane without falling off?

SONIC: Well, I—(he realizes he never thought about it before): Huh. How DO I do that?

TAILS: We'll talk about it later! We still have work to do!

E-90 ascends again as Sonic gets ready to jump onto it.

SALLY: Be careful, Sonic!

SONIC: I will, Sally!

He smooches her on the lips before he makes his next run. He grabs onto E-90’s tail. The robot fires missiles at the jet, which dodges.

EGGMAN: Now, try and top that!

E-90 deploys its vacuum.

TAILS: Here we go! (he pulls a lever): Booster switch on! (the jet slightly converts and after releasing a turbine, the jet starts to propel faster, and turns back to E-90 as the vacuum activates; Sonic strains as he tries to hold on for dear life; then, he looks up to see the jet): Hang on, Sonic!

Tails shoots at the vacuum tube, causing it to combust.

EGGMAN: THAT DOES IT!

The E-90 releases a cargo hold again and flies higher. Tails activates the thrusters and charges at the E-90.

TAILS: Just try and get away!

When the jet catches up and gets close enough to Sonic, Sonic is able to jump onto the jet. Sonic starts shivering.

SALLY: Sonic’s shivering!

HOPE: No wonder! It’s 50-below here. Sonic’s not acclimated to such low temperatures!

Sonic then feels an odd sensation on his feet. He looks to see ice growing on his body.

SONIC: Oh, boy!

Even the jet starts to be covered in ice.

HOPE: Tails, we’re freezing up!

TAILS: Don't worry. Everything's going to be okay.

SONIC (Freezing up): I hope you’re right, Tails.

SALLY: Sonic’s frozen solid!

TAILS: Uh-oh! (E-90 fires missiles again, but, Tails dodges): We can't use a Power Ring, because the panel for the launcher is frozen shut and I can't open it!

HOPE: Wait, Tails! I have an idea!

TAILS: Let’s hear it, Hope!

HOPE: Hand me the Power Ring!

Tails, while still piloting, does so. Hope disconnects the yellow wire and wraps it around the Power Ring before touching the Fire Shield capsule with the Power Ring. This causes the ice on the jet and Sonic to melt off as they become engulfed in a red flame-like aura.

SONIC: Watch out, Eggman! I'm all warmed up! Let's go get 'em, guys!

TAILS: Yeah!

So, Tails turns the jet around, back towards the missiles.

SONIC: Now for a Fire Dash! (he jumps up and performs a Spin Dash while still under the influence of the Fire Shield, which allows him to propel himself at the missiles like a rocket; this causes them to explode upon contact): Time to wrap this up!

He goes inside E-90's mouth and sets off a chain of explosions inside it before launching himself out. The robot explodes.

TAILS: He's done it!

HOPE: Right. Time to head back.

Sonic lands back onto the jet as it descends. At the Thorndyke mansion later, Sonic is soaking his feet in warm water and sighing in relief.

SALLY: For what it’s worth, you were very brave today.

SONIC: Thanks, Sal. And thanks for being there with me.

ELLA: Sonic, I made you a chili dog with my Caliente Chili. This’ll warm you up quicker.

SONIC: Thanks, Ella. Thankfully, I haven't had one yet today.

ELLA: Sally made sure to inform me of your heart problems.

SONIC: Knowing Sally's faithfulness, I'm not surprised.

GRANDPA CHUCK: You sure taught Eggman a lesson, Sonic.

SONIC: It wasn't just me, Chuck. I was just helping. Hope, Tails, and Sally are the ones that did it. They're the real heroes.

SALLY: I appreciate your modesty, but, I didn’t really do anything.

SONIC: Wrong. I wasn’t sure I’d make it. You gave me the boost I needed.

HOPE: We all did what we had to do, whether it be piloting, building, fighting, or giving emotional support.

AMY: Let’s celebrate! (she arrives carrying little dishes of ice cream on a silver tray): I made this ice cream myself for the coolest guy I know!

HOPE: Amy, it was a nice gesture, but, your timing is LESS than ideal!

AMY: Okay then. I can always make some more for him later if he's up for it. You guys can have these.

HOPE: Try offering it to those of us who WEREN’T in space.

AMY: Okay. Any takers?

CREAM: I’ll have some.

AMY: Go ahead and take one off of the tray, Cream.

RAY: I’ll j-just have a peanut b-butter sandwich.

AMY: Ray, you need to expand your pallet.

MIGHTY: I’ll have one, too.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Now, Hope, what are all these types you keep mentioning?

HOPE: Very well. I’ve put this off long enough. I need a whiteboard and different-colored dry-erase markers.

Mr. Tanaka gives Hope these supplies with dry erase markers in red, green, and blue and a spare magenta one.

HOPE: Do you have any yellow, brown, and/or grey ones?

MR. TANAKA: I do have a brown and a grey one, but, with yellow being hard to see on the board, I have orange instead.

HOPE: Okay, I’ll need those, too.

Mr. Tanaka gives her the markers in the respective colors.

HOPE: On Mobius, some beings have special abilities, which are placed into categories known as Ability Types. There are three standard Ability Types. Speed, Fly, and Power. (the residents of the Thorndyke abode comprehend the knowledge; Hope draws a blue circle): This blue circle represents the Speed-Type. Beings in this category generally have supernatural speed.

CHRIS (Excitedly): Ooh! Like Sonic!

HOPE: Yes. Other Speed-Types here are Amy, Sally, Mighty, and Ray.

CHRIS: I see.

HOPE (Drawing an orange circle diagonally from the blue one): This orange circle represents the Fly-Type. Beings in this category are either capable of flight on their own or prefer to use mechanisms to achieve flight. Occasionally, both cases apply.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Ah, like Tails here.

HOPE: And Cream, Cheese, Bunnie, and Ray.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Interesting.

HOPE (Drawing a red circle next to the orange one, but, diagonally from the blue one): This circle represents the Power-Type. Beings in this category are known for having supernatural strength.

ELLA: I see.

HOPE: Mighty and Antoine are the only Power-Types currently present.

MR. TANAKA: Most fascinating.

HOPE: Notice how these Ability Types are arranged in a triangular formation.

CHRIS: I can see that.

HOPE: This is because these Ability Types have a Rock-Paper-Scissors relationship.

CHRIS: Wow.

HOPE: Speed-Types have an advantage over Fly-Types, but, are weak against Power-Types.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Interesting.

HOPE: Likewise, Fly-Types have an advantage over Power-Types. I believe you can guess the rest.

MR. TANAKA: I believe so.

HOPE: If one being from each of these three Ability Types join forces, this makes a Team.

ELLA: That’s incredible.

HOPE (Drawing a magenta circle between all three): This circle represents the Balance-Type. Beings in this category have equal skill in multiple Ability Types.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Is that why you mentioned Mighty and Ray being two different types at the same time?

HOPE: Yes. If my memory serves correct, their parents were of different Ability Types.

MIGHTY: Yeah. My mom was a Speed-Type while my dad was a Power-Type.

RAY: My m-mom was a Fly-Type while my d-dad was a Speed-T-Type.

HOPE: Ordinarily, when beings of different Ability Types have a child, their child inherits either one Ability Type from one parent or a combination of both. The latter case is rare, but, not unheard of.

ELLA: That explains a lot.

HOPE: Balance-Types have no real advantages or disadvantages against other Ability Types.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Interesting.

HOPE (Drawing a grey circle away from the ones drawn so far): This circle represents the Intelligence-Type. While beings in this category don’t have any special abilities, they have prodigious intellectual capacities to compensate.

CHRIS: Nice.

HOPE: Sir Charles, Rotor, NICOLE, and myself are in the Intelligence-Type category.

GRANDPA CHUCK: That makes sense.

HOPE: As a support Ability Type, the Intelligence-Types have no advantages or disadvantages over other Ability Types.

CHRIS: I see.

HOPE (Drawing a brown circle away from the grey one): This circle represents the elusive Variable-Type. Beings in this category are able to change their Ability Types at will.

ELLA: Is there anyone here of that type?

SONIC: My mom was a Variable-Type.

ELLA: Oh, my.

HOPE: Not everyone on Mobius is destined to have an Ability Type. Overlanders with Ability Types are few and far between. Even if they DO have an Ability Type, it’s usually Intelligence. Inversely, Mobians without Ability Types are quite rare.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Incredible.

HOPE: Normally, those destined to have an Ability Type show signs of it between the ages of 4-8 years old.

MR. TANAKA: Intriguing.

HOPE: However, exceptions do exist.

SALLY: Like me. Neither of my parents had Ability Types and neither I nor my brother showed any signs of it. However, when I was 16, me and Sonic used the Deep Power Stones.

CHRIS: So, is that why you're in the Speed-Type now?

SALLY: Yes. Though, unlike Sonic, my Speed-Type abilities aren’t to be relied on because they kick in randomly and without warning. Because I spent most of my life without an Ability Type, I have difficulty controlling it even at my current age.

CHRIS: I see.

ANTOINE: My father was a Power-Type and I inherited that from him. Though, my mother didn’t have an Ability Type, so, my Power-Type abilities were slowly awoken through training.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I see.

ANTOINE: Zee Chaos Energy warp zat sent us here enhanced those abilities.

ELLA: Oh, my!

HOPE: That concludes our lecture on Ability Types.

ELLA: Thank you very much.

Meanwhile, in the nearby forest, two Mobian hedgehogs are looking for something. One is female and the other is male.

FEMALE HEDGEHOG: Manic, are you sure we’re going the right way?

MANIC: As sure as I can be, sis. I just hope we’re not too late. (he pulls out what looks like a boogie board with retro-rockets): Hop on, Sonia!

Sonia hops on.

SONIA: Just be careful with how fast we go. We don't want to get caught, but, we don't want to get hurt, either.

MANIC: I haven’t dropped you yet, have I?

SONIA: No, but, still, please be careful.

The board takes off with the hedgehogs on board.

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 9

AMY: The new Emerald Coast Resort sounds like the perfect place to get away from it all. You can hang out at the beach or float in the crystal clear ocean all day long. Then, dine as you watch a spectacular sunset. It sounds absolutely wonderful. I wish we were going to the opening party.

TAILS: Amy, you know Mobians can’t walk around in broad daylight yet.

CREAM: Besides, we'll have fun at the Thorndyke's villa. Are you ready to go, Cheese?

CHEESE: Chao!

TAILS: Uh-oh! I just remembered something!

HOPE: What’s wrong, Tails?!

TAILS: We still haven’t decided on a name for the new jet!

HOPE: Is that all?

TAILS: I can’t decide between X Tornado or Tornado X!

SONIC: Just call it the first one. It rolls off the tongue better.

HOPE: X Tornado does sound good.

TAILS: Anyone else? (the others agree on the name of X Tornado): Alright! X Tornado, it is.

BUNNIE: So are ya ready, Tails?

TAILS: Just about. Of course, not all of us can take it. There’s only four seats and the fourth one is being used for our baggage.

ROTOR: I’ll stay behind. Me, Hope, and Uncle Chuck are working on a project, anyway.

CHRIS: Just be careful and try not to let anyone see you.

SONIC: You guys can go if you want. I’m going to have to pass.

AMY: Why?

SONIC (Flatly): Do I really need to answer that?

AMY: What do you mean?

SONIC: Seriously, I know you’re not a good listener, but, didn’t all those times I had to be saved from drowning not tip you off that I can’t swim?

AMY: Oh. Right...

ROTOR: Since when?

MIGHTY: Since he met me and Ray.

TAILS: It's okay, Sonic. Even though there are other things you can do at the villa besides swim, I can understand why you wouldn't want to come.

SALLY: If it makes you feel any better, I’m staying behind, too.

SONIC: Thanks, Sal.

He picks her up and dashes off.

ROTOR: What happened to Sonic that took his ability to swim?

MIGHTY: Electrical shock to his legs. They took away his ability to swim.

CHRIS: Poor Sonic. (the car horn honks): Huh? Oh! That's my ride! Sorry, guys, but, I need to go!

He jumps into the car, waves goodbye to his friends, and then Mr. Tanaka drives on. In a field, Sonic and Sally watch the X Tornado take off.

SALLY: There they go.

SONIC: Sorry I dragged you down, Sal.

SALLY: You didn’t, Sonic. I could tell you didn’t want to go for another reason. Does it have anything to do with your brother and sister?

SONIC: Is it that obvious?

SALLY: I can tell, Sonic.

SONIC: Well, I guess I’ll tell you. It happened not long after we were reunited with our mother.

In a flashback, Sonic, Sonia, and Manic encounter an older female Mobian hedgehog.

OLDER HEDGEHOG: Sonic, Sonia, Manic. (she sniffles): It’s been so long.

SONIC: Bernadette?

The older hedgehog reveals this to be the case.

SONIC: Bummer majores. We were supposed to find our mom today.

BERNADETTE: Your search is at an end.

The siblings are confused.

SONIA: What do you mean?

BERNADETTE: It’s time you knew the truth, Sonic.

She becomes engulfed in light. The three shield their eyes from the brilliant light. When the light fades, Bernadette is replaced by the form of Queen Aleena.

MANIC: I- I can't believe it!

SONIC: Wait, you and Bernadette Hedgehog were...

QUEEN ALEENA: One and the same.

SONIA: This... this is incredible!

QUEEN ALEENA: Before today, only my husband and his brother knew my secret.

MANIC: Until now with the three of us.

QUEEN ALEENA: I created the civilian identity of Bernadette Hedgehog as a ploy to keep threats off my trail.

SONIC: Very clever.

QUEEN ALEENA: I named it after one of my childhood friends, who sadly perished when Eggman came to power.

SONIA: I'm sorry.

SONIC: We’re all together now. That’s what matters.

MANIC: That’s right!

SONIA: Now that we’re together, we can finally defeat Eggman!

SONIC: Right!

SONIC (Voiceover): But, it wasn’t too be.

A crystalline bomb falls at the hedgehogs’ feet.

SONIA: Look out!

Sonic tries to shield them from the blast, but, he wakes up alone on a beach. He groans and rubs his head as Queen Aleena him with a dismal look on her face.

SONIC: Mom, where are Sonia and Manic?

QUEEN ALEENA: I... can’t sense their presence anymore.

Sonic sheds tears. Back to present day, Sally has the same reaction.

SALLY: Oh, Sonic. I'm so sorry!

SONIC: It’s been three months since I saw them. I left their medallions in the last place I saw them as tribute.

SALLY: It would explain a lot more.

SONIC: Though it’s painful for me, I kept my medallion, but, I just couldn’t bring myself to use it ever again.

SALLY: I understand. (he shows her his medallion): It looks like a guitar.

SONIC: Yeah. It could turn into one, too.

SALLY: Intriguing. Still, I'm sorry to hear of all you went through.

SONIC: Sometimes, me and my brother and sister would sing a song.

SALLY: I hope it's not a sore subject, but, what could their medallions turn into?

SONIC: Sonia’s became a keyboard. Manic’s became a drum set.

SALLY: I see. (Sonic looks tearfully at his medallion): Thank you for telling me. It must not have been easy, but, I appreciate you opening up to me. I can tell you miss them very much.

SONIC: It was a song that brought us back together.

SALLY: Intriguing. (Sonic sighs sadly): I remember back at Knothole when you would play the guitar during your downtime. After you left, I started to miss that.

SONIC: I might try to play again someday, but, at the moment, I'm not really up to it.

SALLY: I understand, Sonic. (Sonic’s medallion twinkles as Sally puts a comforting arm on Sonic while the hedgehog looks at the medallion in surprise): What's happening?

SONIC: The last time my medallion twinkled, I was near Sonia and Manic!

SALLY: But, how can this be?

SONIC: Could they have survived?!

SALLY: There's only one way to find out. (Sonic closes his eyes and his medallion turns into his Sonic Underground guitar): Go for it, Sonic.

SONIC: If they’re on this world, this song should allow me to find them.

SALLY: Alright.

Sonic begins playing and singing.

SONIC (Singing): 🎶There's something missing~
Something's not quite right~
And I can feel it calling to me every night~🎶

Sonic’s ears and mood perk up as he hears Sonia singing.

SONIA (Singing): 🎶A little voice inside tells me someone is out there~
And I must never give up, searching everywhere~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶We are gonna be together~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶Life will be so much better~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶We will build the bond no one can break~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶No more dark clouds above~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶United in the light of love~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶The story can only end one way~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶We'll be together someday~🎶

Sally admires Sonic’s singing.

SALLY (Thinking): Wow. You have such a wonderful singing voice, Sonic.

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶We are gonna be together~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶Life will be so much better~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶We will build the bond no one can break~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶No more dark clouds above~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶United in the light of love~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶The story can only end one way~🎶

SONIA & MANIC: 🎶Someday~🎶

SONIC: 🎶We'll be together someday~
Someday~
Be together someday~🎶 (as Sonic sings, Manic and Sonia arrive; the song ends when they land): Sonia... Manic! (he embraces them warmly): I’m so glad you’re okay! But, how did you survive?

SONIA: It was... really weird.

MANIC: It's pretty difficult to explain in one go.

SONIA: Turns out, that was a warp bomb. It sent us to another dimension.

MANIC: When we woke up, Sonia and I were away from you and Mom.

SONIA: We searched for almost three months and then, this weird warp happened and sent us to this dimension.

SONIC: I was the cause of that warp. I was trying to stop Eggman from using the Chaos Emeralds for his own gain.

SONIA: Knuckles didn’t mention that Chaos Emeralds could do that.

SONIC: That’s barely scratching the surface.

MANIC: So, where have you been staying while you're here?

SONIC: At a mansion owned by a human family.

SONIA & MANIC: Human?

SONIC: Oh, yeah, they call Overlanders humans here.

SONIA: And they haven't done anything to hurt you?

SONIC: Well, the humans of that mansion are the only ones who have a lot of knowledge about us.

SONIA: I see.

SONIC: Humans aren’t quite ready for Mobians yet.

MANIC: And these humans promised to keep our existence secret from other humans for now?

SONIC: Yeah. (Sally clears her throat): Oh, right. Sorry, Sal.

SONIA: THAT’S Sally Acorn?

SONIC: That's right. She's my girlfriend.

SONIA: I wasn’t expecting her to dress so... scantily.

MANIC: You see tons of Mobians walking around in nothing but gloves and shoes every day and THAT bugs you?

SALLY: It's because I feel more accomplished as a Freedom Fighter working with Sonic.

SONIA: Sonic told us about you.

SALLY: He told me about you, too.

MANIC: So, if you guys are here, who else is?

SONIC: Well, there’s Tails, Rotor, Hope, Cream, Cheese, Amy, Bunnie, Antoine, NICOLE, Knuckles, and Uncle Chuck.

SONIA: Uncle Charles is here?!

SONIC: Yep.

MANIC: Anyone else?

SONIC: Mighty and Ray.

SALLY: I believe Sonic told you of them, but, we'd be happy to fill you in if need be.

SONIA: I remember. That was on the day we met. I noticed minor burns on his legs.

SONIC: Sally and I were talking about that before we started talking about you two.

SONIA: Hmm. I don’t remember you being so skinny.

MANIC: Yeah, have you been working out? Because you look JACKED.

SONIC: I was about to ask you the same thing.

SONIA: During our time away, we've been working hard during our search.

SONIC: Oddly enough, you kind of look like Amy now, Sonia.

SONIA: Is that a good thing or a bad thing? I don’t know who Amy is.

SALLY: Well, she's pretty cute, so a good thing.

MANIC: She friends with Sal?

SONIC: Well, let me put it to you this way. Amy saw me and Sal getting close together and she... overreacted.

SALLY: She has since apologized for her actions and we're better acquainted now.

SONIA: What did she have against you and Sally together?

SONIC: Well, she got it in her head that just because I saved her one time, I have feelings for her.

MANIC: Wow. And they call me Manic.

SONIC: Yeah. I tried and tried, but, I just couldn’t get a word in edgewise.

SONIA: Sounds like a real pain.

SONIC: Half the time, she’s trying to date me and the other half, she’s threatening me with her hammer. Sometimes BOTH.

MANIC: She sounds like a wild girl.

SONIC: That’s putting it mildly.

At the beach, Amy’s sneezing up a storm before losing her temper.

AMY: WHO KEEPS TALKING ABOUT ME?!

CREAM: Amy, it's okay.

TAILS: It’s probably just all that water up your nose.

AMY: I’ll be right back. I need to blow my nose.

She walks past Antoine and Bunnie, who are basking in the sun.

BUNNIE: This villa is lovely. It has a great tannin' spot.

AMY: Bunnie, where did we pack the tissues? I’ve been sneezing quite a bit for a while. Like, I sneezed while I was under water. It was really weird.

BUNNIE: They're in mah beach bag right next ta me.

AMY: Thanks.

She searches the bag.

BUNNIE: They should be in the inside pocket closest ta ya.

AMY: Found them.

BUNNIE: Nice work.

Amy blows her nose.

AMY: Much. Say, does Sonic have any other family besides his uncle?

BUNNIE: Well, there’s his ma, pa, brother, and sister.

AMY: Wow, I really haven’t been listening very good to him.

ANTOINE: We never met his brother and sister, though. Their names are Sonia and Manic.

AMY: Who were his parents?

BUNNIE: Jules Hedgehog and Queen Aleena.

AMY: Sonic’s a prince?!

ANTOINE: Another thing you haven't picked up on.

AMY: What is WRONG with me?!

TAILS: That doesn't matter now. What matters is you're working to improve yourself.

AMY: It feels so embarrassing to find out you don’t know as much about someone you like as you thought.

CREAM: Well, you're taking the time to learn more now.

AMY: After all those times Sonic saved me, I want to be able to give something back.

BUNNIE: Like what?

TAILS: Hmm. Maybe you can take a walk on the beach to get an idea.

AMY: That's a good idea. Thanks, Tails.

She walks off.

CREAM: Tails?

TAILS: Yeah, Cream?

CREAM: Do you want to help me build a sand castle?

TAILS: Sure. I’ll get some wet sand.

ANTOINE: They are very adorable.

BUNNIE: They sure are. But, Ah know a few tricks that’ll make mah cousin a shoe-in for Tails. Cream, come on over here. (Cream walks over to her): Yer goin' the right way, but, let Big Cousin give ya some pointers.

CREAM: Pointers?

BUNNIE: Ways to reach Tails’ heart.

CREAM: Okay.

BUNNIE: One thing Tails likes is the Funny Kiss.

CREAM: What's the Funny Kiss?

BUNNIE: That’s when ya give him a kiss on his nose.

CREAM (Flapping her ears in excitement): Ooh~

BUNNIE: Maybe AH can teach ya ta bake him stuff.

CREAM: I’d like that.

BUNNIE: One thing to remember, don’t give him anythin' with goat milk. (whispering in her ear): It don’t sit well with him.

CREAM: It doesn’t?

ANTOINE: Non. He once had a cake made with goat milk and ended up running to ze bathroom all day.

CREAM: Oh, dear. I'll make sure to keep that in mind.

Meanwhile, Amy is walking the beach, looking for inspiration.

AMY: It is lovely out here. I bet Sonic and Sally would love it here. (she imagines the two of them interacting on the beach, frolicking through the sand and even enjoying the beachside sunset before she sighs sadly): Knowing how much those two bonded, I feel that Sonic’s better off with Sally. After all, they’re both royalty. I’m just a commoner. Sally can give Sonic things I can only dream of. (she stops in her place when a fruit falls off of a tree and lands on her head, making her angry): You just ruined the moment! (in anger, Amy launches the fruit out to the water; she unknowingly hits something with it before huffing and realizing she overreacted again; she takes a deep breath): Calm down, Amy. This isn't about what you don't have. This is about what I can give as a friend.

She hears a human couple nearby and hides.

HUMAN MALE: You’re magnificent, Wendy.

WENDY: So are you, Chad.

Amy stealthily observes what they’re doing.

WENDY: I made something for you, Chad. (she presents a bracelet made of shells): It's nothing really, but, I want you to have it. It’s a lucky charm for when you go swimming in the water. It's just like mine.

This inspires Amy.

AMY (Thinking to herself): A lucky charm! It's a perfect gift to give to Sonic! (she waits until the humans leave to look for shells): These look just like the shells on the bracelet. (she gathers as much as she can find): Now, to weave the bracelet. (she heads to the villa and finds a spool full of thick string perfect for weaving bracelets): This’ll do.

So, she gets to work. Meanwhile, Tails returns with wet sand.

TAILS: I got the wet sand for the sand castles, Cream. (Cream kisses his nose; Tails' eyes pop with surprise, blushing wildly): How did you know about that?!

CREAM: Bunnie told me.

TAILS: Bunnie!!!

BUNNIE: What is it, Tails?

TAILS: How much did you tell her?

BUNNIE: Oh, AH just gave her some pointers is all.

TAILS: I wanted to tell her myself.

CREAM: I guess Cousin Bunnie told me first.

TAILS: Thanks anyway, Bunnie.

CREAM: She wasn't trying to be mean, you know.

TAILS: Let’s just get to the sand castle.

CREAM: Of course.

They get to work. Soon, they're able to finish a structurally sound sand castle.

TAILS: That should do it.

CREAM: That was fun.

Amy puts the finishing touches on her bracelet.

AMY: Hmm... I wonder what Sonic would say about this?

Ray lands next to her.

RAY: That's a n-nice bracelet.

AMY: Thanks, Ray. It’s for Sonic.

RAY: A f-friendship gift?

AMY: Yeah. It’s the least I can do to thank him.

RAY: That's k-kind of you.

AMY: Have you and Mighty met Sonic’s brother and Sister?

RAY: N-not really. Lately, S-sonic doesn’t seem c-comfortable talking about them.

MIGHTY: We would like to know more of the details, but, we don't want to put stress on our friend.

An explosion is heard from far away. The Mobians turn towards the sound of the explosion, which is coming from the resort. Over at the opening gala, the guests are running from the explosion as the Eggmobile arrives.

EGGMAN: I'm turning the Emerald Coast Resort into my kind of stomping ground! (Chris is paralyzed in fear): Alright! Time for my de-construction crew!

An army of identical robots swarm the resort and they begin to do some deconstruction to the resort. Amy watches through binoculars.

AMY: This is bad! Eggman's attacking the Emerald Coast Resort!

BUNNIE: Chris is there! And Hope stayed behind!

ANTOINE: We have got to do something! I know ze humans are not ready for us, but, we have to at least try!

MIGHTY: Even if the humans see us, we still have a responsibility to stop Eggman. Even Eggman’s most fragile robots are more durable than humans.

RAY: That's t-true. Though I wish Sonic was h-here to help us, we n-need to do what we c-can!

TAILS: The X-Tornado’s ready for take off!

AMY: Let's teach Eggman a lesson! (she hops into the seat behind the pilot seat): Ready!

TAILS: Buckle up, Amy.

She does so. Back at the resort, Eggman appears before Chris, Mr. Tanaka, and Ella while Chris is still paralyzed.

EGGMAN: You're my first guests! Welcome to Eggman's scream park where your first vacation is guaranteed to be your last!

MR. TANAKA: You have no business here, Dr. Eggman!

EGGMAN: Oh, but, that is where you're wrong. I have plenty of business here~! (he snaps his fingers and an octopus-like robot emerges from the water): So, now that we've established who's in charge, why don't you just run along and let me get back to my work~!

MR. TANAKA: I may not have an Ability Type, but, I will still do all I can to protect Master Chris!

ELLA: Tanaka, you’re not strong enough to fight that thing! Besides, Hope says that Eggman could make a toaster oven more durable than any human.

MR. TANAKA: I don't like it, but, I'll have to stand down.

At the Thorndyke residence, Sonic and Sally have finished giving Sonia and Manic a tour, ending in the entertainment room.

SONIC: And this is the entertainment room. It's where we come when we want to have a little fun, provided by the television set.

MANIC: Man, these humans must be LOADED.

SALLY: They are, but, the family is more modest and less pompous.

SONIA: But, where are the others?

SONIC: The beach.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Sonic, Sally!

SONIC: What’s up?

GRANDPA CHUCK: Did you hear the news!?

He turns on the tv.

NEWS REPORTER: A gang of robot destroyers has been wrecking hotels and resorts all on the Emerald Coast! This situation is growing more dangerous by the hour! Authorities have issued evacuation orders!

GRANDPA CHUCK: Hope has taken the jet pack we were working on and is already on her way!

The TV feed changes and Dr. Eggman is seen. He laughs in a devious way.

SONIA: Great! Now, Eggman’s here!

EGGMAN: The owners of the Emerald Coast Resort didn't invite me to their opening, so I knocked it down and turned it into my own vacation destination! It's now Eggman's Scream Park!

MANIC: He just doesn’t quit, does he?

Sally, noticing Bokkun right behind them, turns around and backs away.

SALLY: Neither does he!

BOKKUN: Eggman sent you an invitation! Come on down and have a blast!

The bomb ignites on its own.

SONIA (Casually picking up Bokkun and the bomb): You know, if you’re going to make puns, the least you can do is think of something clever.

She tosses both it and Bokkun skyward out the window. The bomb explodes with it still being in Bokkun's hands.

SONIC: We got work to do!

SALLY: And friends to save!

MANIC: Lead the way, bro!

So, Sonic and the three Mobians hurry out the door. Back at the resort, the robots are beginning construction.

EGGMAN: Build faster! Don't use too many nails and bolts! Make sure you water down the cement! I want these rides to be the most dangerous in the universe! And for all patrons to hate roller coasters as much as I do! (suddenly, Hope arrives via jet pack and uses her EMP on some robots; this disables them instantaneously, preventing them from working): I should have expected you to try and get in the way, niece!

HOPE: Whether you did or not doesn't make a difference! You're causing trouble to these vacation-goers and party attendants and I'm here to stop that!

EGGMAN (Chuckles): We’ll see. (he gets the Eggmobile higher. Hope follows suit, still riding on the jet pack): You COULD use that EMP to disable my Eggmobile, but, falling from this height could easily kill me.

Hope realizes he’s right and begins hesitating.

HOPE: I hate to say it, but, he's right. I don't want to kill him, but, I don't want him to cause trouble, either.

EGGMAN: Compassion has always been your weakness, niece!

The headlight on the Eggmobile shines while emitting an electromagnetic pulse at Hope. The jet pack she's wearing starts to malfunction and she falls to the ground. She’s caught by Manic on his rocket board before she hits the ground.

HOPE: Huh?

MANIC: Thank you for choosing Airway Hedgehog for all your travel needs.

EGGMAN: What?! Another hedgehog?! (he suddenly recognizes Manic and growls): I know you! You're that accursed brother of Sonic, Manic the Hedgehog!

MANIC: And you’re still the same old Eggman.

EGGMAN: Well, this changes things. No matter. I'll still annihilate you!

Manic takes Hope down gently.

HOPE: Thank you.

Sonia performs her Tasmanian Devil-style Spin attack on a few robots.

EGGMAN: Oh, and no party would be complete without Sonic's sister, Sonia the hedgehog!

SONIA: I got to say, you look a LITTLE better than the last time I saw you. Not that that’s saying much.

EGGMAN: Shut up!

Sonic and Sally arrive.

SONIC: Looks like the party's just beginning!

The octopus robot grabs him.

EGGMAN: You fell right into my trap, Sonic. I know you can't swim, so, I lured you to the sea. You won't get away!

SONIA: You scum!

EGGMAN: And proud of it!

Sonic tries to run away.

SONIC: You think I can't get away? Just watch me!

He runs on the ground.

SALLY: Be careful, Sonic!

The tentacle stretches.

EGGMAN: Don't give up, Octoron! Haul Sonic into the ocean!

The tentacle snaps like a rubber band.

SONIC: Oof!

Octoron dunks Sonic, who struggles to hold his breath.

SONIA: Let him out of that water!

Amy and Tails watch from the air.

AMY: Sonic’s in trouble!

She opens the canopy.

TAILS: Amy, be careful!

She jumps out, pulls out her hammer, and smashes the Octoron's tentacle. Sonia and Manic look in surprise.

AMY: Eggman, keep your rotten robots away from my friend Sonic or you'll be sorry!

SONIA: You think that’s Amy?

MANIC: Fiery, passionate, and wielding a mallet. I think it is her...

He blushes a bit.

SALLY: Yep, that’s her.

MANIC: What a woman~.

Sonic is freed.

SONIC: Thanks, Amy!

AMY: No problem. But, who are those two?

SONIC: Amy, this is Sonia and Manic, my sister and brother, respectively.

AMY: Oh.

She curtsies to them.

SONIA: It's nice to meet you.

MANIC (Still blushing): I'll say it is.

EGGMAN: I’m not done yet, Sonic!

SONIC: Neither am I!

AMY: Sonic.

SONIC: What’s up, Amy?

AMY: I wanted to give you something as thanks for all the times you saved me.

SONIC: Can it wait?

AMY: Yes, it can.

SONIC: I'll get back to you on that.

So, Sonic runs up a tower and charges at Eggman. At that point, Sally’s speed kicks in and she charges alongside Sonic. They jump into the air and they both plow through Octoron, which explodes.

EGGMAN: Oh, no!

Sonia is impressed by Sonic and Sally’s team-up.

SONIA: Wow! You two work really well together.

SONIC: You know it!

EGGMAN: You may have won this time, but, I'm not through with you!

The Eggmobile floats away.

SONIC: Yeah, right.

AMY: Can I give it to you now?

SONIC: Sure. (she presents the bracelet): You make that yourself?

AMY: Yeah. I was inspired by a human couple.

SONIC: Thanks, Amy.

Before he can take it, the ground shakes. Sonic and Amy jolt, causing Amy to lose her grip on the bracelet. The bracelet is smashed as the other robots combine and Eggman reappears.

EGGMAN: I told you I’m not through yet! My Quizzon have merged into Serpenter!

SONIC: It may be pretty tall, but, I bet in a battle, it comes up short.

Amy looks at the shattered bracelet.

EGGMAN: You need more than speed to survive this robot, Sonic!

SONIC: We’ll see about that!

Sonic and Sally run ahead, leaving Eggman to command Serpenter after them. Amy picks up the remains of the bracelet.

AMY: I guess my charm wasn't so lucky...

She tries really hard to contain her anger as her eyes fill with tears. Finally, Amy gives into her anger.

EGGMAN: Alright, Serpenter, you know what to do! Put the squeeze on Sonic and toss him out to sea!

Amy pulls out her hammer.

AMY: Now you'll pay! (she swings her hammer at Serpenter): Don't mess with me or my friends!

MANIC: Is it weird that I find that kind of hot?

SONIA (Sighs in annoyance): Men.

EGGMAN: Oh, boy! (Amy makes Serpenter shorter): Oh, no... Perhaps I'd better go.

He tries sneaking away.

AMY: Oh, no you don't!

She bounds up on Serpenter's head, which springs her. She then whacks the Eggmobile with her hammer, which is tossed into the sea. Eggman coughs up water before seeing Amy coming straight for him. Eggman screams in peril as Amy hammers him again. The people and Mobians on land see this.

SONIC: I know Amy can swim, but, that kind of impact will have knocked her out!

SALLY: We have to do something!

MANIC: Let me handle this one!

SONIA: Be careful, Manic!

Manic dives in.

SALLY: Manic must be really brave. I didn't know he could swim.

SONIA: Sonic’s the only one of us who can’t.

SALLY: I see.

Meanwhile, under the waves, Manic swims towards Amy, who is drifting downwards and holding the remnants of the bracelet. She sees Manic swimming towards her.

AMY (Thinking to herself): Sonic's brother? He's coming to save me? (she sighs to herself, believing he saved others before her): He could just be saving me out of formality.

Manic grabs her. He brings her up to the surface and carefully lays her on her back on the sand. Amy spits out the water in her mouth.

MANIC: You okay?

AMY (Dejected): Yeah.

MANIC: What's wrong?

AMY: You’ve probably done this before.

MANIC: Actually, no. I haven’t.

AMY: Y-you haven't?

MANIC: Nope. Usually, Sonic or Sonia do that. I don’t have powers like they do.

AMY: And you were still willing to save me?

MANIC: Well, Sonic can’t swim, so, if he tried, there’d be two lives to worry about.

AMY: That’s true.

MANIC: So, I figured I may as well do it.

AMY: Thank you, Manic. Thank you very much.

MANIC: By the way, (he reveals the bracelet in his hands): I have a delivery to make.

AMY (Gasps): The bracelet! You saved it!

MANIC: Yeah. You went through a lot of trouble to give it to Sonic. It’d be a total waste if it turned out to be for nothing.

AMY: Thank you so much, Manic!

She hugs him tight. Manic blushes happily in response to Amy hugging him.

MANIC: I’ll go deliver the bracelet now.

AMY: Thanks again.

Manic pulls out his rocket board. Amy stands back a bit, but, looks on with amazement. Manic flies over to Sonic.

AMY (To herself): Wow~

Manic delivers the bracelet.

SONIC: Thanks, bro.

He puts it on his wrist. Meanwhile, Eggman washes up on another part of the beach. Eggman groans from exhaustion, coughing up some excess sea water.

VOICE: Tsk, tsk, tsk. Really quite a mess you’ve gotten into.

Eggman looks up and recognizes his nephew, Snively.

EGGMAN: Snively? How did you know I would be here?

SNIVELY: I saw that pink hedgehog swinging her hammer around.

Eggman winces.

EGGMAN (Sarcastically): Thank you very much for the reminder.

SNIVELY: It seems we share a common enemy once again, sir.

EGGMAN: Indeed, Snively. I believe us working together again will be mutually beneficial.

SNIVELY: Indeed. There is strength in numbers after all.

The two shake hands on it.

EGGMAN: Welcome back. Nephew.

SNIVELY: Thank you, Uncle.

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 10

Tails is piloting the X Tornado one night with Hope as his co-pilot.

TAILS: So far, things are going smoothly, Hope.

HOPE: It seems the Chaos Emerald is indeed making the X Tornado smooth and functional so far, but, we must still be cautious.

Suddenly, the Chaos Emerald starts pulsing.

TAILS: I think it's picked up something. (the X Tornado tremors): I can't control it! (it starts flying towards a baseball stadium): Maybe it's another Chaos Emerald!

HOPE: Given what I've read on Chaos Emeralds, that's a very strong possibility! (ahead in the baseball stadium, Tails sees someone shouting, telling him to stop): There’s a human there, Tails! Turn the plane around!

TAILS: I'm trying! The best thing I can do is pull up!

He pulls the thrusters back and the X Tornado pulls up, narrowly missing the human.

HOPE: Let’s land the X Tornado and investigate. (the man stands up in bewilderment; Tails manages to safely land the X Tornado; Tails and Hope go inside and investigate after Tails takes out the plane's Chaos Emerald): We better be careful. We don't know if the human can be trusted.

TAILS: He looked harmless enough. Of course, appearance isn't everything. Still, you know as well as I do that us Mobians can't hide from humans indefinitely.

HOPE: Right.

TAILS: So, even if this particular human CAN keep our existence secret, other humans will learn of us regardless.

HOPE: Of course.

They enter the stadium. They climb up the stadium stairs and onto the baseball diamond, nearly blinded by the stadium lights.

TAILS: Whoa!

HOPE: I must admit, this is quite impressive. (Tails spins his namesakes and carries her to the field): Whoa~! (her feet are firmly planted on one of the plates; they see the human trying to start a mower): It may be risky, but, we must ask him.

TAILS: No turning back now.

HOPE (To the human): Excuse us, sir? (the human doesn't seem to notice at first; Hope speaks a bit louder): Excuse us, sir? (the human still doesn't notice; Hope sighs): Please don't take this personally. (loudly): Hello?! (this catches the human’s attention): Hello. Sorry to disturb you, but, we could use your help.

HUMAN: Aren’t you a little young to be out this late on your own?

HOPE: I’m 14. I came here because I had a little bit of an interference and I'm looking to see if I can find something.

HUMAN: Say, you look familiar. Did you happen to be the girl with the jet pack that arrived at the Emerald Coast Resort yesterday?

HOPE: If I'm being honest, yes.

HUMAN: Are you really that Dr. Eggman’s niece?

HOPE: Honestly, yes. But, I can assure you, I'm against his ideas and would do anything to stop him from hurting others.

HUMAN: I saw you fight against him on the news. That pretty much speaks for itself.

HOPE: Thank you. Now, me and my friend here have reason to believe that something we're looking for is in this general area.

HUMAN: What sort of something? And friend?

He notices Tails and gasps a bit, having never seen a fox like Tails before.

TAILS: It's okay. I'm with Hope and I'm not going to hurt you.

HUMAN: Huh? (a while later on the bleachers, Hope and Tails fill the human in on the situation and learn that his name is Alfred Butler): That's quite a story. Never would have guessed that you two would be up in the plane, especially with a fox piloting it.

HOPE: We apologize for the fright, Mr. Butler. I must say that this stadium looks very well maintained.

ALFRED: Thank you very much. A lot of folks say that the turf in Diamond Stadium is the best in the world which makes me happy, because I've been the groundskeeper of this stadium for 30 years.

HOPE: 30 years?

ALFRED: Well, actually, it's been only 8 years, but, sometimes, it FEELS like 30 years. Even so, today is my last day here. The Diamond's manager wants to build an indoor stadium with artificial turf. So, this place is going to be demolished. Leaving this place behind will be like the end of an era. By the way, did you two mention something about an Emerald?

TAILS: Yeah.

He pulls out the Chaos Emerald.

HOPE: We're looking for an emerald that looks just like the one Tails is holding. It's known as a Chaos Emerald.

ALFRED (Pulling out the cyan Chaos Emerald): Is this it?

TAILS (Gasps): That's it!

ALFRED: I found it behind a dumpster a few nights ago. Wasn't sure what it was.

The two emeralds start to glimmer before emitting a pillar of light skywards. Far away, outside of the stadium, various onlookers see this pillar of light and are surprised. One of them is Knuckles.

KNUCKLES: I know that light!

In Dr. Eggman's lair, Decoe is alerting Eggman.

DECOE: Dr. Eggman! You might want to take a look at this!

EGGMAN: What is that light?!

SNIVELY: It appears that two Chaos Emeralds have come within a close proximity of each other.

DECOE: It appears to be coming from the baseball stadium.

EGGMAN: Baseball, eh? (smirks): This gives me an idea!

Eggman opens a drawer and finds baseball gear like mitts, baseballs, a bat, and an umpire's mask.

SNIVELY: A rousing game of baseball, Uncle?

EGGMAN: Oh, yes. It feels appropriate, given the location.

SNIVELY: Very well. I’m feeling rather sporting right now.

EGGMAN: So, let's play ball.

He chuckles wickedly. At the Thorndyke mansion, Cream is looking upset.

BUNNIE: Ya miss Tails, don't ya, Cream?

CREAM: Yes. He should have been back by now.

BUNNIE: Aww, Cream, don't ya fret. He's still testin' the X Tornado n' he'll be back before you know it. Besides, Hope's with him. That girl's smart enough to get both of 'em out o' trouble.

SONIA: Manic! Put that silverware back!

Manic is using two spoons as drumsticks and drums upon the table.

MANIC: Sonia, quit being such an S.A.P.!

ROTOR: S.A.P.?

MANIC: Spiny Annoying Princess!

Sir Charles takes the spoons out of Manic’s hands.

SIR CHARLES: Alright, you two. That's more than enough bickering.

SONIA: Yes, Uncle Charles.

MANIC (Simultaneously): Yes, Uncle Chuck.

SIR CHARLES: Thank you. I get it's hard being in a new location, but, we must try to keep a level head and not take our frustrations out on one another.

Sonic is making a decent effort to sit properly next to Sally, but, can’t tell which utensils are for which dish.

SONIC: Which fork was for the salad?

ROTOR: Frankly, I don’t see why so many utensils are used for different dishes. I mean, what difference does it make as long as they get the job done?

CHRIS: My mom says it's important to learn good manners so we can eat properly.

ANTOINE: She’s right.

SONIC: Well, I've learned some manners and I still ate just fine my whole life.

MIGHTY: I spend a lot of time in nature, where it doesn’t matter how you eat as long as you do.

RAY: E-except peanut butter sandwiches.

AMY: Seriously, Ray! You can’t live off peanut butter sandwiches alone!

RAY: I l-like them though.

MIGHTY: Never mind, little buddy. They're yours to enjoy.

SONIC: Hey, Antoine. Can you help me out here?

ANTOINE: Of course, mon ami.

SONIC: I can’t tell which is the salad fork. (Antoine, looking annoyed, points to the salad fork): Oh, right. Thanks.

ANTOINE: Proletariat.

SALLY: Hey, he's still practicing. You shouldn't shrug off his efforts like that.

MR. TANAKA: She’s right, Master Antoine. Not everyone is as well-trained in etiquette as you are.

ANTOINE: My apologies, Sonic.

Bokkun flies in.

BOKKUN: Sorry, I didn't know it was meal time, but, Dr. Eggman's got a real important message for ya!

AMY: Eggman can take his message and shove it right up his—

Manic quickly covers her mouth.

MANIC: Sorry. What Amy’s about to say can’t be repeated in polite company.

MR. TANAKA: How dare you barge in on us like this!

ANTOINE: You need to be taught some manners!

BOKKUN: Eh, that's what you say!

The monitor turns on.

EGGMAN: Good evening, Sonic. I suggest you take a look out your window.

SONIC: Huh?

He looks out a window. He, Grandpa Chuck, and Chris see the bright pillar of light illuminating the night sky.

CHRIS: What’s that light?

SONIC: That’s what happens when two Chaos Emeralds get close to each other after a while apart.

EGGMAN: Correct. We both want those Emeralds, but, why not be good sports about it? That's why I suggest you suit up and meet me over at the Diamond Stadium.

SONIC: Diamond Stadium?

ROTOR: Wait, is this a recording or is Eggman speaking to us in real time?

AMY: Another Chaos Emerald revealed itself and THAT’S what you’re worried about?

EGGMAN: I challenge you and your friends to a game of winner-take-all baseball!

He laughs wickedly as the transmission ends.

BOKKUN: You guys might be a little rusty, so how about some batting practice?

He pulls out a bat.

SONIC: Heads up!

Bokkun begins hitting baseballs like bullets. The others frantically dodge until Ella grabs a hold of Bokkun and Sonia swipes his bat.

ELLA: You've got a decent swing, but, you keep hitting it foul!

SONIA: Ella, I believe it’s time throw him out.

ELLA: Agreed.

She launches Bokkun out the window as Bokkun flies at the speed of a bullet.

MANIC: Remind me not to get on Ella’s bad side!

SONIC: We have to get to that stadium!

Bunnie secures Cream, Cheese, and Antoine in her arms before taking off.

ANTOINE: WHOA~!

Sonic dashes off with Sally and Grandpa Chuck drives the car with Chris, Mr. Tanaka, Sir Charles, and Amy. Manic takes his rocket board while Sonia rides her motorcycle and Mighty and Ray run alongside Sonic. Back at Diamond Stadium, the light dies down from the Chaos Emeralds.

ALFRED: What just happened?

TAILS: That's what happens when two Chaos Emeralds come together.

HOPE: Though it's likely that the wrong person has seen the pillar.

The Eggmobile arrives with a sidecar for Snively.

EGGMAN: Well, if it isn't my foxy high-flying friend and my disgrace of a niece!

SNIVELY: Hope? You’re here, too?

HOPE: Colin?

Alfred is confused.

ALFRED: You two know each other?

HOPE: That’s Colin Kintobor Jr., my half-brother.

EGGMAN: He answers to Snively Robotnik now!

SNIVELY: That's right. As you can see, Eggman and I got ourselves reacquainted.

HOPE: Colin, please! Uncle Julian is using you!

Eggman reacts with anger at his abandoned name being used.

EGGMAN: How dare you use that name I abandoned!

SNIVELY: Sir, it might be prudent to get back to the business at hand.

EGGMAN: Yes, of course. (he looks left and right): Where's the rest of your team? It's almost game time.

TAILS: What team? What are you talking about?

EGGMAN: I sent a message to Sonic and his ragtag friends inviting them to a winner-take-all baseball game!

HOPE: Well, they’re not here!

EGGMAN: Could it be that Sonic and his pals are choosing to forfeit? I must say that's very unsportsmanlike like of them. If there's one thing I hate more than a meddling hedgehog, it's a quitter!

SNIVELY: Look at it this way, sir. We already won.

The Eggmobile produces a robotic arm that reaches for the Chaos Emeralds. Hope draws her EMP weapon, but, hesitates. Tails dodges out of the way, taking Hope with him. The robotic arm then focuses on Alfred and swipes the Cyan Chaos Emerald.

TAILS:  Oh, no! He's got the emerald!

EGGMAN: And now to take the green one!

TAILS: I'm not giving it to you and that's that!

He starts to run away from the robotic arm, which extends. Tails still runs out of the robotic arm's reach, but, Knuckles comes along and punches it to pieces.

KNUCKLES: That was close. You okay?

TAILS: I am! And I'm glad to see you!

EGGMAN: Well, if it isn’t Knuckles! I bet you’re feeling rather smug about playing me for a sap!

SNIVELY: What brings you here? Doing Sonic's dirty work, I suppose?

KNUCKLES: I saw that Chaos Beacon on my own.

SNIVELY: It figures you would want to show your muscular moxie against us.

Sonic, Sally, Mighty, and Ray arrive.

SONIC: Hey, how's it going, Knuckles?

KNUCKLES: Eh, can’t complain.

EGGMAN: Well, if it isn't Sonic and some of his pals. I thought you weren't going to show up, so, I took one of the Emeralds and was just about to take the second.

Sonia and Manic arrive as Bunnie lands with Cream, Cheese, and Antoine.

SNIVELY: And it seems we have more players joining us for our game.

Chris, Grandpa Chuck, Sir Charles, Amy, and Mr. Tanaka enter.

EGGMAN: So now that we're all here, maybe we can play ball. (a ship shaped like a baseball cap arrives): Allow me to introduce to you all my fellow teammates!

The ship deploys several identical robots as well as Scratch and Grounder.

SCRATCH: Look at us! We're out on the big diamond now! Ha-HA ha-HA!

HOPE: Scratch and Grounder?

EGGMAN: Two of my Ballios models were destroyed. I had to make due with them.

Eggman and Snively then jump down from the Eggmobile.

TAILS: You can’t play here!

GRANDPA CHUCK (Stepping in front of Tails): It's alright, Tails. It just so happens that I am a big baseball fan from way back.

TAILS: Huh?

GRANDPA CHUCK: A nice friendly game of baseball sounds like a great idea to me.

TAILS: But, Chuck...

EGGMAN (Laughs): So, you're Grandpa Chuck. Different from Sir Charles, aren't you? Well, it's a great pleasure to finally meet you. A ball game must sound more exciting after being cooped in your lab for so long! (he notices the deroboticized Sir Charles): And Sir Charles! I see you got yourself deroboticized. No matter. After I win, I'll make sure you regain your robotic body!

SCRATCH: Um, would this be a bad time to mention that the Roboticizer stopped working?

EGGMAN: What?! You heaps of scrap! Can't you do anything right!?

SCRATCH: We tried fixing it from the inside and accidentally turned it on.

TAILS: HEY! If you want to have a ball game, then you have to play someplace else! (Eggman and Grandpa Chuck seem to ignore him): Isn't anybody listening to me?!

GRANDPA CHUCK: Well, if the others are up for it, I’m happy to accept your challenge!

TAILS: But, you can't have your game here! You're going to ruin all this beautiful turf!

DECOE: What’s that loudmouth fox getting so bent out of shape for?

BOCOE: Who knows?

Tails loses his temper.

TAILS: HEY! I'll have you know that this stadium means a lot to my friend!

ALFRED: It’s okay, Tails.

TAILS (Turns around to see Alfred behind him): Huh?

ALFRED: The stadium gets demolished tomorrow, anyway.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Haven't I seen you somewhere before?

ALFRED: Probably during the seventh inning stretch. I’m Alfred Butler, the groundskeeper.

GRANDPA CHUCK: I thought you looked familiar! I've seen you on television! You were good friends with the owner of the Diamonds, Elmer Johnson, right?

CHRIS: You know him?

ALFRED: Elmer and I don't talk much anymore.

GRANDPA CHUCK (Crying tears of joy): It’s such an honor to play baseball at Diamond Stadium!

EGGMAN: Stop your blubbering and let's play some baseball!

AMY: Okay.

CREAM: How do we play?

GRANDPA CHUCK: Alright, everybody! Time for the Chaos Emerald baseball playoff!

EGGMAN (Pushing Grandpa Chuck aside): It's the first ever Eggman Interdimensional Baseball challenge!

KNUCKLES: This is just sad.

CHRIS: No kidding.

Mr. Tanaka, in full baseball outfit, stretches his legs. Sonic isn't impressed.

SONIC: Does he have to be on our team?

CREAM: Amy, do we get to play, too?

SIR CHARLES: Well, on baseball, each team needs at least nine players.

AMY: And there is a lot of us here.

SIR CHARLES: Besides, it’ll be a learning experience for the younger Mobians.

AMY: We'd love to help where we can.

Eggman is practicing his batting.

CHRIS: Hey, Grandpa. I'm not so sure if this game is such a good idea.

HOPE: Chris is right, Mr. Thorndyke. My uncle is a notorious cheater and some of that rubbed off on my half-brother.

GRANDPA CHUCK: You guys may be right. For all we know, they could be using corked bats.

HOPE: Their cheating is worse than that.

EGGMAN: Let's decide which team will be first to bat! Rock, Paper-

KNUCKLES: You can't be serious!

EGGMAN: Huh?

KNUCKLES: Don’t you realize what’s at stake here? If Eggman wins, it’ll mean nothing but catastrophe for all of us.

EGGMAN: I'd say that's nothing but stinking thinking!

SONIA: Why ruin everyone else’s good time?

AMY: Come on, Knuckles. Don't you want to play?

MIGHTY: Think of it as a chance to put Eggman in his place again.

RAY: Y-yeah! You'd be s-super strong and s-super brave!

KNUCKLES: Hmm... when you put it like that...

SONIC: Great, then you'll play, huh?

KNUCKLES: You know what? I’ll do it. Any excuse to keep a Chaos Emerald from falling into Eggman’s hands is good enough for me!

MANIC: Let's get this game on!

The game starts with Sonic’s team at bat first.

DECOE: Let's play ball!

Chris is up to bat first.

CHRIS: Bring it on!

The pitcher throws the ball at the speed of a bullet. Chris exclaims as the ball is caught by the catcher.

DECOE: Strike 1!

SONIC: Whoa! That was fast!

EGGMAN: That’s the way, Tomorrow!

Tomorrow, the pitcher, throws another ball and it lands in the catcher's mitt.

DECOE: Strike 2! (a third ball is pitched and immediately caught): Strike 3! Batter out!

CHRIS (Dejectedly): How can anybody hit a ball that fast?

EGGMAN: Alright, send in the next sucker!

TAILS (Stepping up to the plate): It'll probably be a fastball.

In Eggman's dugout, Scratch smirks as he uses a remote to activate Tomorrow's extendable arms. Tomorrow pitches the ball, but, it doesn't let go. Instead, the robotic arm stretches towards Tails. Once the ball is close enough, Tomorrow simply tosses it to the catcher.

DECOE: Strike 1!

Tomorrow retracts its arm.

TAILS: Hey, that's not fair!

DECOE: What do you want? I didn't make any of the E-21 Ballios models.

Next it was Amy's turn to bat. Instead of using a bat, she uses her hammer.

AMY: Gimme your best pitch, ball boy! (Tomorrow pitches): I got it!

She swings and hits. Sonic's friends cheer for Amy.

KNUCKLES: We may not lose after all.

But, one Ballios throws another towards the ball, and catches it.

DECOE: She's out!

AMY: Huh? But I thought... (Eggman laughs arrogantly; later, the teams switch and Amy is on the pitcher's mound): Now, I'll show them what I can do. I'm a much better pitcher, anyway.

SONIA (From the dugout): How would you know? You never played before.

AMY: Well, I've thrown stuff before. (she then does the wind up and the pitch at the batter Ballios, obliterating it): Sorry about that. I usually aimed for Eggman’s robots when I threw something.

SONIA (Flatly): That explains so much.

Grounder comes up to bat with one arm turned into a morning star.

AMY: This time, I have to aim at the catcher's mitt.

She aims at the catcher's mitt. While she's throwing, one of the Ballios runs to steal a base. Tails catches the ball. The Ballios bounds over Tails, landing in a handstand on the plate.

DECOE: Safe!

TAILS: Losing isn't fun.

Another Ballios hits the ball out of the park.

EGGMAN: And it's out of the park!

Ray flies up to catch the ball and catches it.

DECOE: Home run! Home run!

GRANDPA CHUCK: You caught it, Ray, but, if it's outside the fence, it doesn't count.

SONIC: A little late to break out the rule book, isn’t it? Amy and Grounder used a weapons instead of regular bats.

Later, Tomorrow pitches the next ball and is obliterated.

AMY: Sorry, that's a hit.

The next batter is Mighty, who hits the ball hard enough to send it flying at the speed of a bullet.

DECOE: Sad to say, but, it's a home run.

Mighty runs all the bases.

Sonic's team cheers.

SCARLET: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. This is Scarlet Garcia with a live report from Diamond Stadium. There appears to be a most unusual baseball game happening right this moment. The notorious Dr. Eggman and a team of robots are playing a game against four people and what appears to be a cadre of anthropomorphic animals, one of which appears to be the blue hedgehog who’s been stopping Eggman since the villain made his debut.

GRANDPA CHUCK: We're closing in on them! Now let's give it our best shot. Tanaka!

MR. TANAKA: Yes, sir?

GRANDPA CHUCK: I'm putting in a pinch hitter for you.

MR. TANAKA: Huh?!

GRANDPA CHUCK: It's Cheese!

CHEESE: Chao! Chao!

Tomorrow tries to calculate the best pitch, but, because Cheese is so small, there are difficulties. Tomorrow makes an expression of exasperation and makes an attempt to throw the ball softly, but, Cheese doesn't swing once.

DECOE: Ball 1. (the ball is thrown back to Tomorrow, who makes another feeble throw): Ball 2. (Tomorrow makes another weak pitch): Ball 3. (Tomorrow makes its weakest pitch yet): Ball 4. Take your base.

CHEESE: Chao!

EGGMAN (Growls): You big loser! You call yourself a pitcher?!

BUNNIE: Mr. Thorndyke, Ah do believe Ah have an idea!

GRANDPA CHUCK: Go for it, Bunnie.

BUNNIE: L'il cousin, come over here.

CREAM: Yes, Bunnie? (Bunnie whispers a secret strategy into Cream's ear): Are you sure about that, Bunnie? What will Tails think?

BUNNIE: Never ya mind, Cream. Ah'll explain it ta him.

CREAM: Um, okay. I'll try.

She goes up to bat.

DECOE: Play ball!

CREAM: Oh, Mr. Pitcher!

Tomorrow stops its wind-up momentarily.

CREAM (Making the biggest puppy eyes she can manage): Please don't throw the ball too hard. I never played before.

Tomorrow blushes and releases the ball with a "boing."

DECOE: Balk. Batter takes first base.

CREAM: Thank you, Mr. Pitcher! (thinking): Please forgive me, Tails.

EGGMAN: I ought to throw you in the scrapheap!

Knuckles hits another home run.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Alright, Knuckles!

SALLY: Now, we're tied!

CHRIS (Noticing something): Look, everybody!

The stadium has human spectators.

KID IN THE AUDIENCE: Hey, you guys! Hit a homer over this way!

ALFRED: Where'd all these people come from?

MANIC: So much for staying hidden.

The score board changes so that the scores are tied and the game resumes. Sonic comes up to bat. Tomorrow pitches and Sonic bunts the ball. He dashes to first before the Ballios playing first even notices him.

EGGMAN (Growls in anger): You strike out that squirt or else!

Chris comes up to bat. Tomorrow pitches the ball with wicked speed, causing Chris to flinch.

DECOE: Strike 1!

Chris begins to doubt himself.

CHRIS: Oh, no. What if I let the whole team down?

DECOE: Strike 2!

SONIC: Time out! Chris, what's going on?

CHRIS: The ball is going so fast. I don't know if I can hit the ball.

SONIC: Sure you can. All you have to do is count to three and concentrate.

CHRIS: Easy for you to say.

SONIC: I timed each of those fastballs. There's a three-second window to hit them as they get close.

CHRIS (Deep breath): Okay, I'm going to try.

He goes back to bat.

DECOE: Play ball!

Chris focuses on Tomorrow.

CHRIS (Thinking): Sonic's right. I just have to keep on trying.

Tomorrow pitches and Chris swings with all his might.

DECOE: Strike 3!

CHRIS (Sighs): At least I tried my best.

GRANDPA CHUCK: Chris! Run!

Chris looks up to see a Ballios struggling to catch the ball. He's surprised, but, he starts to run towards first base. Sonic steals second and third base before running to Home while Chris slides to first.

DECOE: Safe!

CHRIS: I did it! I made it to first base!

Sonic gives Chris a thumbs up from home base. The score changes so that Sonic's team is victorious.

EGGMAN (Growls): Those clowns won't make a fool out of me!

Bocoe rolls in carrying a remote with a red button on it that Eggman presses. Tomorrow stands up, and its head detaches from its body. It rockets towards Sonic and lands on his head.

SONIC: Huh?

EGGMAN (Tauntingly): Oh, dear! My robot is malfunctioning! It will explode any minute now! Run, Sonic! Hurry and run away!

Sonic tries to remove Tomorrow’s head.

SONIC: He's trying to get us to forfeit the game! I have to get rid of this thing, quick! (he dashes around the field): Hey, you're really hanging on!

A white-cloaked figure watches from the stands.

KNUCKLES: Mighty, do you have any Tether Rings?

MIGHTY: Yeah!

SONIA: Wait! I have an idea!

SONIC: It better be quick!

Sonia pulls out a Power Ring and holds it above her, causing it to glow brightly.

MANIC: Are you going to do what I think you're going to do?!

Sonia grabs Knuckles by the ankles and does a Sonia Spin while keeping her grip.

KNUCKLES: Got it!

SONIA (While spinning): Sonic! When I give the word, jump as high as you possibly can!

SONIC: Right!

SONIA: NOW! (Sonic jumps as high as he can): Sonia Swing-by Spin!

She throws Knuckles at Sonic as she stops spinning. When Knuckles gets close enough, he punches Tomorrow's head off of Sonic's, causing Tomorrow's head to explode.

SONIC: Thanks for the help, you, two!

SONIA: You're welcome!

Sonic and Knuckles land.

EGGMAN (Retreating in his Eggmobile with Snively in tow): You may have beaten me in baseball, but, with this shiny blue Chaos Emerald snuggled ever so safely in my pocket, I'm the real winner after all, aren't I?!

The Eggmobile flies off with the Ballios ship following.

AMY: Now, HE has a Chaos Emerald.

Her pondering mood was interrupted by the cheering crowd.

SCARLET: As you can see, there’s been quite a turn out for this event. The game was, of course, the last to be played here at the stadium. (however, the crowd applauds louder; Scarlet looks to the side to see why and gasps): Could it be?!

A human man enters the field.

CHRIS: Hey! That's Elmer Johnson!

ELMER: I was watching at home. It was quite a remarkable game. It's all thanks to you, Al. I can't help but think how much you've done for the Diamonds over the years and what a great friend you've been.

ALFRED: Thank you.

ELMER: With how well you took care of the stadium over the years, I decided to commit it to your care.

ALFRED: Thank you very much!

GRANDPA CHUCK: We may have lost a Chaos Emerald, but, I believe we all learned an important lesson about teamwork.

MANIC: We really have.

ANTOINE: And we'll be stronger when next we meet Eggman and Snively.

In the stands, the white-cloaked figure teleports outside the stadium.

FIGURE: So, they DID survive. (she removes her hood to reveal the face of Queen Aleena the Hedgehog): I'm glad they're all together again. (she changes into Bernadette): I must keep a low profile for now.

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 11

One night, a mysterious figure, Rouge the Bat, investigates a nearby building while hanging upside down from a tree. She confidently smirks as she sets out. On her way, she's unaware of a female Mobian fox determined to beat her to where she's going.

FOX (To herself): Hmm~ Knowing Rouge, she'll hit the jewel display at the museum. Well, I won't let her beat me this time!

She sets off, jumping from tree to tree with her acrobatics. Inside the museum, there is a brilliant jewel on display heavily watched over by security cameras. The guards on duty seem to be occupying themselves on anything but their work.

GUARD 1: Anybody hungry? (the sound of footsteps echo on the security footage and the Guard hears them and looks to investigate; he sees Rouge casually walking to the display): Hey!

GUARD 2: What's going on?

GUARD 3: What's up?

They look at Rouge through the screen.

GUARD 1: How could anybody get in here?

In the display room, Rouge attaches small, heart-shaped shovel attachments to the toes of her boots.

ROUGE: Alright, Pick Nails, don’t fail me now! (she flies up and kicks at the glass protecting the jewel; this causes the shovel attachments to act as an effective glass-cutter; as the glass was cut at an angle, the top slides off, allowing Rouge to pick up the jewel): Hello, gorgeous~

GUARD 1: Time for a lockdown! (he presses keys on his keyboard and the museum goes into lockdown): Nobody’s getting out now! (the guards run towards where the Jewel was originally kept in display, taking out their weapons; to their absolute bewilderment, Rouge is gone; however, where the jewel once sat, there was a greeting card; the first guard reads it): "Thank you?" What? Is this a gag?

The guards notice that the domed ceiling is slightly off. As it turns out, a crane outside lifted the dome of the ceiling. Meanwhile, Rouge is flying over the rooftops, looking at the jewel.

ROUGE: You may not be the Chaos Emerald, but, you'll do for now~

She lands on top of another building on the other side of town, where she encounters the Mobian fox from earlier.

FOX: I knew it wouldn't be long before you'd strike, Rouge.

ROUGE: Well, well, well. If it isn’t Fiona Fox. Looks like this is another one I beat you to.

FIONA: Mark my words, Bat! You may boast now, but, that could get you into trouble and I'll be ahead of you. I at least have some semblance of shelter. You’ve been thinking more about jewels than setting up a steady supply of food. (Rouge's belly grumbles): THAT proves my point.

ROUGE: You worry too much, Fi. Now, why don't you just run along and play with a dog or something?

She flies off, leaving an indignant Fiona behind.

FIONA: Stuck-up little daughter of a—

The scene cuts to Rouge, who’s gliding over the forest.

ROUGE: Home, sweet temporary home. (her belly growls again and she thinks to herself): Well, Fiona’s right about one thing. I need a steady supply of food.

Rouge looks around and forages for berries. The next morning at the Thorndyke mansion, Cream is watching a news report with Bunnie and Cheese.

SCARLET: I'm coming to you live from the National Museum where officials say that the world's largest diamond was stolen late last night. Law enforcement authorities are baffled by the outbreak of precious gem robberies, but, private sources tell SSTV that they believe that this was merely the biggest in a series of jewel thefts that have plagued Station Square in recent days.

Amy enters, carrying a pizza.

AMY: Sonic? Sally? Cream, Bunnie, have you seen those two?

BUNNIE: Last we did, they were with Hope, Tails, Rotor, Sonia, Manic, Mighty, n' Ray.

CREAM: But, I'm not sure where they went.

AMY: Oh. Well, how about some pizza?

CREAM: Yes, please. Are you sure it's okay?

AMY: Sure. I made it for Sonic and Sally, but, they’re not here and I don’t want to waste it.

CREAM: Thank you, Amy.

BUNNIE: Amy-girl, y'all are takin' this whole Sonic datin' Sally really well.

AMY: I noticed how happy Sonic was with her, so, I have to respect them. Besides, Sonic's a prince. I'm just a commoner.

BUNNIE: Yer an extraordinary girl, Amy. Even if yer social standings are different, ya could find yer own Prince Charmin' someday. (lidded eyes): He might be closer 'n ya think.

Amy blushes at the thought.

CREAM: Who do you mean, Bunnie?

BUNNIE: Well, Ah've seen the way Manic looks at Amy.

CREAM: And he did save Amy.

AMY: Well, there's no denying that. And he admitted that I was his first solo rescue.

CREAM: So, Manic could be your Prince Charming.

BUNNIE: Manic told me he never had much luck with gals, so, he knows how ya feel.

AMY: I should talk to him when he comes back.

Meanwhile, with the X Tornado...

HOPE: Tails, do you see anything down there?

TAILS: No.

He pilots X Tornado to turn right. Sonic, unprepared, loses his balance.

SONIC: Whoa!

TAILS: Nothing there.

HOPE: It may seem fruitless now, but, I know we'll find the other Chaos Emeralds. We'll all work together. Even Sonic will assist. Right, Sonic? (Sonic doesn't answer): Sonic?

MANIC (Using his board to carry Sonic back up): You might want to give bro a warning next time.

Sonic breathes a sigh of relief. Meanwhile, at the White House...

PRESIDENT: Something has to be done, gentlemen. We must take action. Eggman is a threat to our nation's security. We have no choice but to launch an attack.

CHAIRMAN 1: Mr. President, I want to stop this Eggman as much as you do, but, it’s not so simple.

CHAIRMAN 2 (Peering through a book): I'm afraid the chairman is right, sir. After examining the remnants of one of Eggman's robots, we've determined that his technical capabilities and military hardware far surpass our current weapon systems.

JEROME WISE: That may be so, but, it doesn’t change the fact that something must be done.

AIDE: Sir, the animals we’ve been observing as well as Eggman might be of assistance to us. We’ve come to learn that they’re collectively referred to as “Mobians.”

PRESIDENT: Mobians?

AIDE: Yes. They apparently come from a planet called “Mobius,” just like Eggman and have a habit of referring to humans as “Overlanders.” They’re also allied with Eggman’s niece, Hope Kintobor.

PRESIDENT: I see. Can we communicate with these Mobians?

AIDE: The surveillance records indicate that Mobians and humans speak a common language. Their battles against Eggman showcase that they also have abilities that humans don’t.

PRESIDENT: Very well then. We'll do it.

AIDE: Unfortunately, it may not be so simple. Their ally, Hope Kintobor, has an unusually high IQ for a 14-year-old. It’s very likely that she already suspects that her friends are under surveillance despite our best efforts to hide this.

PRESIDENT: Then, what can we do?

AIDE: Well, it appears that despite being Eggman's niece, she's openly defiant of him and is determined to help stop him.

PRESIDENT: I see.

AIDE: Perhaps if we can appeal to the girl’s gentle nature, we can convince her to assist. She doesn’t have special abilities like the Mobians, but, her intelligence more than compensates.

PRESIDENT: We must be certain to take her opinions seriously.

AIDE: Indeed.

The next day, at Chris’ school, it's art class, and the students are drawing and painting. Chris paints a picture of the Red Chaos Emerald.

FRANCES: Hey, I bet that's that Chaos Emerald you and your friends have been trying to find, right, Chris?

CHRIS: Kind of.

DANNY: It looks like that?

CHRIS: From what I saw so far, they come in different colors, but, they have the same shape.

MR. STEWART: Let's keep the chatting to a minimum and focus on the painting.

DANNY & CHRIS: Right.

MR. STEWART: What's that you're painting, Chris?

CHRIS: Uh, an emerald.

MR. STEWART: But, I thought all emeralds were supposed to be green.

CHRIS (Nervously): Well, I’ve been thinking of a story where emeralds come in up to seven different colors.

MR. STEWART: That's very creative. Your emerald can be any color you want it to be. As a matter of fact, I've heard of a red emerald that was recently found around Silky Heights.

CHRIS: Really?

MR. STEWART: In fact, if I'm not mistaken, they found that emerald in an old, dilapidated factory not too long ago.

Outside, Rouge is secretly listening.

ROUGE: Hmm... who knows what interesting little tidbits you can pick up if you hang around long enough~

She flies off, unaware that Fiona was listening from the bushes,

FIONA (To herself): So, a dilapidated factory, huh? Sounds like I better get moving.

Chris later returns to the mansion.

CHRIS: I'm home~

SIR CHARLES: How was school, Chris?

CHRIS: It was good, thanks. But, I've got some news I think you guys should hear!

HOPE: What would that be?

CHRIS: Mr. Stewart told me about something that was found around Silky Heights. He said it was a red emerald!

HOPE: Hmm, let me see a map of Station Square.

CHRIS: Right. By the way, where's Sonic? He should know about this.

SIR CHARLES: He’s spending some quality time with Sonia and Manic.

CHRIS: Alright.

Hope looks at a map of Station Square and sees that Silky Heights is just on the outskirts of the city, which hasn’t been checked yet.

HOPE: Well, we haven't checked there yet, so, there is a likely chance that the Chaos Emerald is there. Then again, there’s the equal possibility that it could be a trap just like Silver Valley.

CHRIS: Oh, right. I guess I was so excited to help you with the information that I didn't think of that.

Danny knocks at the door, which Mr. Tanaka answers.

MR. TANAKA: Welcome, Daniel.

DANNY (Gasping for breath): I... asked... Chris... to slow... down...

MR. TANAKA: Please come inside to catch your breath. I'll fetch you a glass of water.

As he does, Danny notices the other Mobians.

DANNY: Oh, hey!

SALLY: You must be Danny. Chris told us about you.

DANNY: That's me alright. (he recognizes her from the Intelligente fiasco): You and the blue hedgehog were the ones who saved us from Intelligente.

SALLY: Yes. My name is Sally Acorn. The blue hedgehog was Sonic.

DANNY: Cool. It's very nice to meet you, Sally, and thanks.

SIR CHARLES: I’m Sonic’s uncle, Sir Charles.

DANNY: Hello, Sir Charles. (after Mr. Tanaka returns with Danny’s water and Danny is introduced to the all the Mobians as well as given some backstory on them): Okay, let’s see if I got this. You guys are all Mobians and an Overlander from the planet Mobius, sent here through a warp in time and space due to a freak accident.

HOPE: Essentially, yes.

DANNY: And these Chaos Emeralds are your best chance of reversing the warp that sent you here in the first place. But, finding them is easier said than done.

TAILS: Right. We have one and another was taken from us.

DANNY: And this Eggman guy wants the Emeralds for different reasons.

AMY: Different and dangerous reasons, yes.

DANNY: And you're hiding from the rest of the world for now because of Cream getting caught by the government.

BUNNIE: Right.

DANNY: And the only reason I'm being allowed to know this is because I saw some of you already. Did I miss anything?

ANTOINE: No. You pretty much got ze, how you say, gist of it.

DANNY: Okay. I think I'm up to speed now.

CHRIS: It was a lot for me to take in, too, so, I understand what you mean.

TAILS: Sonic and Sally already left for Silky Heights.

HOPE: We should investigate as well, but, take caution. It might be a trap like Silver Valley.

DANNY: What happened at Silver Valley?

CHRIS: Hope, I'll just sit this one out so I can tell Danny about that. Is that okay?

HOPE: Of course, Chris. Thank you for asking first. It was a great lapse in my judgement to allow you to get caught in the Silver Valley trap. I won't make that mistake again.

Chris hugs Hope in a supportive manner. Soon, the X Tornado takes off with Tails piloting, Rotor as co-pilot, and Hope and Amy in the passenger seats. Meanwhile, up on Silky Heights, Rouge and Fiona encounter each other at a sign.

FIONA: So, we meet again, Rouge.

ROUGE: Sure looks like that. Though, it’s a little boring having hints on a treasure hunt.

FIONA: Indeed. It seems we have a common goal once again. If my hunch is right, that goodie-goodie Sonic is looking for it, too.

ROUGE: I wouldn't be surprised. Hmm... but, I think I'll set a trap for him so that he won't be able to get it.

She turns the arrow on the sign to point the other way.

FIONA: THAT’S your plan?

ROUGE: Simple, I know, but, it should still be effective. (her ears twitch): Hide.

She and Fiona hide in the bushes. Then, Sonic and Sally come up to the sign.

SONIC: So, looks like we go that way.

SALLY: It seems that way. Though, don't you find it weird that Chris' teacher only told Chris about this?

SONIC: Now that you mention it, yeah...

SALLY: Her theory on this being a trap has more credence by the second.

SONIC: So, what can we do?

SALLY: Well, even if Hope’s theory is correct, I think it’s best we play along.

SONIC: If you say so, Sal.

They signal the X Tornado.

TAILS: Looks like the factory is just ahead.

Sonic and Sally dash ahead. The X Tornado follows behind the two. Once they're gone, Rouge and Fiona emerge from their hiding spot.

ROUGE: See? They fell for it.

Fiona, having listened to what Sally said, enters a state of deep thought.

FIONA (Thinking): A trap, huh? It seems that more are aware of our existence than we thought. (she sees Rouge already flying away): Typical Rouge. Well, if she gets caught in the trap, it’s her own fault. This, I got to see.

With Rouge, she's flying toward the factory until she gets a visual of the factory's gate. She lands just outside of it.

ROUGE: Too easy.

She flies right over the fence. She makes her way to a window and looks inside. With it being old and dilapidated, the factory is dark and cluttered. Fiona, meanwhile, sneaks in through cracks in the walls.

FIONA (Thinking to herself): She's here. And now, we wait.

Rouge notices something shiny on the floor.

ROUGE: Well, what's this? (she glides down and carefully picks it up; but, as she does, spotlights turn on, illuminating her, and she's surrounded by soldiers as she speaks nonchalantly): You Overlanders must think you're hot stuff ganging up on me.

FEMALE SOLDIER: Don't make a move!

ROUGE (Still unfazed): Whatever you say.

Fiona is unimpressed by how lightly Rouge is taking the situation.

FIONA (Thinking): Does she really think that she has the upper hand in this situation?

The female soldier walks toward Rouge and pulls out a set of handcuffs.

ROUGE: Oh. I wasn’t aware you were an Overlander into S&M.

FIONA (Thinking to herself): Can’t she be serious about ANYTHING?!

The male soldiers laugh at Rouge's remark. This angers the female soldier.

FEMALE SOLDIER: What are you clowns laughing at?! Commander?!

COMMANDER: Huh?!

He clears his throat.

ROUGE: I’m not going anywhere. Matter of fact, I kind of like being in the spotlight.

COMMANDER: Forget the cuffs. What's your name?

ROUGE: The name's Rouge. That's Rouge the Bat.

COMMANDER: Hey, I've seen you somewhere before. That's right! You're the one who snuck into the national museum and stole the diamond, aren't you?

ROUGE: What if I am?

COMMANDER: We set up a trap for Mobians and it looks like we got one. Can’t say G.U.N. doesn’t deliver.

ROUGE (Confident smirk): Hmm~

Meanwhile, Sonic and Sally are still looking for the factory.

SALLY: The sun's starting to go down and there's still no sign of the factory.

SONIC: I get the distinct impression that someone purposely made that arrow point the wrong way.

SALLY: Even though we're starting to get hungry, we're still somewhat safe.

SONIC: Let’s check the other way and head back afterwards and get some food.

SALLY: Cautiously, though.

At the White House...

ROUGE: Boy, I could really go for a cup of coffee.

FEMALE SOLDIER: This isn't a country club, little lady! You're in big trouble!

ROUGE: Yeah, yeah, I know. So, I've heard. But, all I want is a cup of coffee. Don't be such a nag.

FEMALE SOLDIER: Now, you listen here, you little--

COMMANDER: Hey! Get her a coffee, Topaz!

TOPAZ: Ugh, yes, sir. (under her breath as she prepares a cup): I can't believe I went from soldier to secretary in less than an hour.

ROUGE: So, your name is Topaz. Isn't that the name of a gem?

TOPAZ: If you must know, my parents named me after my birthstone!

ROUGE: Seems you're a November baby.

The door opens and the president walks in. Topaz, distracted, pours coffee on her hand.

TOPAZ: Ow!

She jolts in pain and spills the coffee.

PRESIDENT: Case of the jitters, Topaz?

TOPAZ (Cleaning the coffee off the floor): My apologies, Mr. President.

JEROME: So, you're Rouge.

ROUGE: Depends who's asking.

JEROME: The name's Jerome Wise, aide and press secretary to the president.

ROUGE (Feign excitement): Hi~

JEROME: Well, Rouge, I imagine you must be wondering why you're here.

ROUGE (Feigning interest, not even making eye contact): The thought HAS crossed my mind, yes.

AIDE 1: Listen, Rouge, we've come to understand that you're one of many Mobians spotted here in recent days.

ROUGE: And~?

AIDE 1: We also understand that Mobians have abilities that us humans don't. This in mind, we have a proposition for you.

ROUGE: A proposition, huh?

PRESIDENT: We're willing to offer you complete immunity from your crimes if you join the Guardian Units of Nations.

ROUGE: Join the Guardian Units of Nations? As what?

AIDE 1: You'll work as an undercover agent for the president.

ROUGE: Well, I have experience as a bounty hunter. Being a secret agent shouldn't be that much different. Tell me, though, why would you want a naughty little jewel thief like me in the G.U.N.?

PRESIDENT: Let's just say we took notice of your abilities and would like to cultivate them. Do we have a deal?

ROUGE: Hmmm~ (thinking to herself): Who knows? Working as an agent, I just might get closer to the Chaos Emerald. (aloud): Mr. Pres, consider your proposition agreed upon.

PRESIDENT: Congratulations, Agent. Welcome aboard.

Rouge is about to shake the President's hand, when she remembered something.

ROUGE: So, does that mean I don't get to keep the diamond?

PRESIDENT (To Jerome): Well, what do you think?

JEROME: Well, the case is still currently open, so, it couldn't hurt as long as she keeps quiet about it.

PRESIDENT: There you have it.

Rouge smirks confidently. Meanwhile, Sonic and Sally returned to the factory sign.

SONIC: Since going that way turned out to be a wild goose chase, I say we take our chances going the other way.

SALLY: Right, but, we must be careful.

They dash off in the other direction. Meanwhile, Fiona is hiding on a G.U.N. plane transporting Rouge, Topaz, their commander, and the rest of that squadron.

FIONA (Thinking to herself): For a military unit, their security is pretty lax. Makes Eggman's SWATBots look like maximum security guards.

Topaz puts a bracelet-like device on Rouge's wrist.

ROUGE: What's this?

COMMANDER: That is a bomb?

ROUGE: A bomb?

COMMANDER: We've seen surveillance footage that shows you Mobians emerging from explosions without a scratch. That means you guys are pretty durable. But, one wrong move and we'll use this bomb to test just how much that durability extends.

TOPAZ: Just think of it as a bracelet.

ROUGE: A bracelet that explodes?

TOPAZ: It's supposed to be functional, not fashionable.

ROUGE: This feels like something a masochist would wear. Why don't you?

Fiona is less than amused.

FIONA (Thinking): Constantly losing to her wouldn't be so bad if she'd just be serious for once!

TOPAZ (Angrily blushing): What's that supposed to mean?!

ROUGE: Exactly what you think, weirdo.

COMMANDER: Ladies, please!

At the factory, Sonic, Sally, Tails, Rotor, Amy, and Hope arrive.

AMY: So, this is the abandoned factory? It gives me the creeps.

ROTOR: You're not the only one.

Sally notices what looks like a cd caddy.

SALLY: What's this?

She picks it up and inserts it into NICOLE, which displays a holographic projection of Fiona while playing a recorded message. Sonic, Sally, Rotor, Tails, and Hope looks at the projection in anger.

FIONA PROJECTION: Hey, there, you goody-goody Freedom Fighters. If you made it here expecting a trap, Rouge, being the show-off she is, already sprung it. She's been taken by some Overlander group called G.U.N. and I decided to secretly tag along. Later, suckers!

She does an eyelid pull taunt before the projection fades.

HOPE: Fiona! I should have known she and Rouge would cause trouble!

AMY: I'm sensing hostilities between you guys and her. What happened?

SONIC: We'll tell you when our blood isn't boiling!

AMY: So, there's nothing else here.

Later at the mansion, the group returns with less than happy expressions.

CHRIS: I'm guessing Hope's theory was right?

HOPE: There was a trap, but, someone else had already been caught in it.

DANNY: Who?

SALLY: Only those scales, Rouge the Bat and Fiona Fox!

Danny and Chris are confused about the use of the word "scales," while Hope and most of the Mobians react with shock.

ANTOINE: Sally, language!

DANNY: I'm guessing calling someone a scale is quite rude on Mobius.

HOPE: It's a term Mobians use to insult traitors, coming from the Mobian snake, Private Trey Scales, who betrayed his team to my uncle. It's not exactly a term Mobians use in polite conversation.

BUNNIE: So, Rouge and Fiona are on this planet, too. N' there wasn't a Chaos Emerald there.

CHRIS: Are there... bad Mobians?

BUNNIE: Some are good, some are bad, others are morally grey.

SALLY: While Fiona's as against Eggman as the rest of us, she's a bit more ruthless in opposing him.

DANNY: I see.

SALLY: Her extreme methods were bad enough, but, when she started toying with Tails' emotions? That was the last straw.

DANNY: That's terrible.

CREAM: She what?!

BUNNIE: It's true, Cream. When she noticed his brains, she used him ta make things fer her fer nothin'.

Cream is noticeably angry at this, her cheeks are red with anger. Amy and Sonia are also angered, but, not as intensely as Cream.

TAILS (Comforts Cream): Don't worry, Cream. I moved on from that and I found someone who I really do care about who cares for me in return.

Cream hugs him while crying into his shoulder. Tails rubs Cream's back comfortingly.

AMY: If I see that little--

Tails, seeing where this is going, plugs Cream's ears so she can't hear Amy's angry ranting. Amy annoyedly rants, flailing her arms about in frustration. After she gets it out of her system, she takes a deep inhale and releases it in a soothing exhale. Seeing that the rant is over, Tails unplugs Cream's ears.

CREAM: Thank you.

SALLY: Now, it's easy to say that we've all had a long day with a few frustrations. We know that Fiona and Rouge are out there and there was no Chaos Emerald. What we need to do next is keep searching while still laying low.

SIR CHARLES: Before we can plan our next move, we'll need to get some rest. It won't do any good to burn ourselves out.

SONIC: Very true. Plus, we'll want a chance to cool our heads.

Meanwhile, Fiona is sneaking about Eggman's lair separate from G.U.N.

FIONA (Thinking): So, this is where Eggman's set up while on this world. (she sees a monkey Badnik guarding the door): Coconuts is guarding the entrance? This is too easy!

Coconuts is muttering about his demotions.

COCONUTS: First I was a fighter, then I was a toilet scrubber, and now I'm guarding outside? (sneezes): And it's cold out too! Sometimes, it feels like Eggman gave us these sinuses just so he could be cruel to us without lifting a finger!

As Coconuts mutters to himself, Fiona hatches a plan to sneak herself inside.

FIONA (Thinking): While he's groaning, I'll just use that blaster Tails made me and blow him to pieces. While he's busy pulling himself back together, I'll just waltz right in.

COCONUTS: Sometimes, I wonder why I hang around Eggman. I should just run away... if I hadn't promised Sonic I wouldn't. Why DID I make such a promise in the first place? And why do I continue to KEEP that promise? The dangers of the outside world can't hold a candle to living with Eggman! (suddenly, Coconuts finds himself blasted to pieces and dazed): I hate my life.

While he's putting himself together, Fiona waltzes right in.

FIONA (Thinking): He's smarter than Scratch and Grounder, but, that's not saying much. (so, Fiona carefully looks around; her keen ears pick up the sound of a distant high-pitched female voice, accompanied by the sound of Rouge screaming in agony): What the-?

She sees Snively, armed with a blaster, walk by.

SNIVELY: That infernal Noizi! More trouble than it's worth!

FIONA (Thinking): Noizi? That must be that loud noise.

The loud scream even grabs Eggman's attention.

EGGMAN (Shouting): Sometimes, I get the impression I have too much free time on my hands! It must be intruders!

Scratch and Grounder are trying to protect their audio sensors from the sound of Noizi.

SCRATCH (Shouting): That Noizi makes me miss the Music Destroyer Robot!

GROUNDER (Shouting): WHAT?!

SCRATCH (Shouting): I said, that Noizi makes me miss the Music Destroyer Robot!

GROUNDER (Shouting): I can't hear you! This Noizi is making me miss the Music Destroyer Robot!

SCRATCH (Shouting): That's what I've been saying!

GROUNDER (Shouting): WHAT?!

SCRATCH: FORGET IT!

Fiona plugs her ears while following Snively.

FIONA (Thinking): I must be a bit scatterbrained to follow the sound, especially as loud as this.

SNIVELY: If this is another false alarm, I'm going to scrap that robot!

In the room where Noizi was kept, Rouge holds her ears to keep the sound out.

SNIVELY: Ah, Rouge the Bat. I see you've met E-70 Noizi.

Rouge notices that Snively seems fine despite the noise.

ROUGE (Shouting): Why isn't the sound bothering you?!

SNIVELY (Scoffs): This is just Thursday with my uncle for me.

ROUGE: I should have known you'd make something like this!

SNIVELY: I WISH I could take credit for this.

Rouge screams as if in agony as Noizi increases its volume.

SNIVELY (Noticing Topaz): It seems you brought a human into this as well.

TOPAZ: I can't take this sound anymore! Help me! (a door opens, revealing more robots; instead of having sound powers, they have actual weaponry; one even begins to shoot at Rouge; despite her handicap, Rouge manages to dodge; she runs as another fires missiles at her, which she dodges; the missile hits a bigger robot): Rouge! The power generator!

Rouge notices the hole in the floor.

ROUGE: I've had enough of this! (she looks at her bomb and gets an idea; she removes it and hurls it at the megaphone of the Noizi robot, muffling the sound): Quick, Topaz! Push the button!

Topaz, comprehending, triggers the detonator. This causes the amplifier to explode. The blast is enough to break Topaz free from her trap.

SNIVELY: I feel like I underprepared for this!

ROUGE: Nobody's perfect~ SCREW KICK!

Then, Rouge does a spinning kick and launches herself through the rest of the Noizi robot, drilling a hole straight through it.

SNIVELY: That’s my cue to evacuate!

Rouge then grabs a hold of Topaz.

ROUGE: Hang on tight!

Snively evacuates first, unknowingly followed by Fiona as Rouge starts to fly out, carrying Topaz with her. They pass Eggman.

ROUGE: Move it!

Eggman moves out of the way.

EGGMAN: Oh, excuse me! Wait, who was that? (Eggman then looks to see the hole in Noizi's chest): Speaking from experience, I can guess what happens next! (the robot explodes into a fiery ball): SOMETIMES I HATE BEING RIIII- (Rouge flies Topaz through the halls and out of the lair, narrowly dodging the blaze chasing after them; Eggman survives the explosion, but, is covered in soot and dazed): Why do I keep making robots with self-destruct sequences?

SNIVELY (Coughs): In hindsight, this function would be better to robots you assign outside of your lair.

Meanwhile, Fiona managed to escape.

FIONA (Thinking): So, this is the start of something new.

At Chris’ school the next morning, Chris has a worried expression about the possibility of less than savory Mobians.

MR. STEWART: Chris, are you alright?

CHRIS: Uh, fine, Mr. Stewart.

MR. STEWART: How are your stories coming along, by the way? I bet they must have great characters in them.

CHRIS: Well, let’s say it’s a work in progress.

MR. STEWART: Keep up the good work when you can.

Outside, Hope is keeping an eye on both Chris and Mr. Stewart.

HOPE (Thinking): There's something really odd about Mr. Stewart. He seems really invested in Chris. It’s possible he’s a spy, but, I don’t have any evidence to prove it. Until I do, it’s best I don’t say anything.

She continues to keep an eye on the two.

The end.

Chapter Text

Sonic X: Heroes Forever Chapter 12

One day, Sonic is on the roof of the Thorndyke Mansion, looking at a travel magazine.

SONIC: There are a lot of things to see on this planet, even if there are places I would have to swim to. (Sally walks next to him): Hey, Sal.

SALLY: I see you're looking at a travel magazine.

SONIC: Yeah, I am.

SALLY: I take it you've been to all the landlocked places?

SONIC: Well, yeah. The only places I haven't been are the ones I have to swim to.

SALLY: You DO realize that the X Tornado could fly you to such places, right?

SONIC: Uh.... yeah?

SALLY (Deadpan): It just occurred to you right now, didn't it?

SONIC (Sighing): Yeah... (Sally looks at a picture of the Eiffel Tower in the magazine): That's the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.

SALLY: Looks like a nice place to visit. Hmm... something just occurred to me.

SONIC: What's that?

SALLY: We've been here for a good long while now and we STILL don't know what this country's called.

SONIC: Hey, that's a good point.

SALLY: We know that the planet is called earth, but, that's about it.

SONIC: Right. We could always ask Chris or Tanaka.

SALLY: Very true. On an unrelated note, I've done some research on this G.U.N.

SONIC: Yeah?

SALLY: Turns out, that's an abbreviation for Guardian Units of Nations.

SONIC: I see.

SALLY: Remember when we rescued Cream and Cheese from Area 99?

SONIC: Kind of hard not to.

SALLY: Turns out, that place is affiliated with G.U.N.

SONIC (Deadpan): Why am I not surprised?

SALLY: Hope suspects that G.U.N. knows about Mobians in general since that rescue.

SONIC: I can see why she'd say that.

SALLY: She also suspects that we're under surveillance right now.

SONIC: Which means we have to be more careful.

Meanwhile, Cream, Bunnie, and Cheese are finishing up an episode of The Next Show.

NEXT: Bye bye, my friends! I'll see ya tomorrow!

CREAM: Bye bye, Next!

CHEESE (Waving goodbye): Chao-chao!

Ella enters.

ELLA: I thought you three might like a little snack.

She places a tray of cake on the table.

BUNNIE: That looks like Antoine's work.

ELLA: Your husband is quite talented when it comes to baking.

CREAM: Thank you, Ella. Please tell Antoine we said thank you, too.

The tv cuts to a news report.

NEWS ANCHOR: We interrupt our regularly scheduled program to go live to our SSTV correspondent, Scarlet Garcia.

SCARLET: Presidential aide and press secretary, Jerome Wise, is going to make a statement before taking questions from the press corps.

JEROME: The president has decided to take action to stop Dr. Eggman.

Bunnie, shocked by this statement, loses her grip on her slice of cake. Cream cleans up the mess.

BUNNIE: Declarin' war on EGGMAN?! These humans don't know what they're dealin' with!

CREAM: What can we do, Bunnie?

BUNNIE: Ah'll tell you what we're NOT goin' to do! Let those humans battle Eggman on their own! If we do, the best case scenario is those humans get Roboticized!

CREAM: We have to help protect the humans!

They head off to warn the other Mobians at the mansion. Meanwhile, Eggman, Snively, Decoe, Bocoe, Scratch, and Grounder are watching the same report.

MAN: Has the administration developed a concrete plan to stop Dr. Eggman?

JEROME: Yes.

EGGMAN (Turning off the monitor): Is that so? Well, I hope they come up with a disaster management plan, because they're going to need it.

He laughs aloud. Meanwhile, Knuckles is scaling a cliff using the spikes on his namesakes. He then makes his way to the top and looks at the overhead view of the city.

KNUCKLES: Alright, where's the emerald?

Overhead, Knuckles hears the roaring of a jet. He spots the X Tornado. After it flies past him, Knuckles runs after it. The jet is piloted by Tails with a reluctant Chris in the co-pilot seat and Amy and Frances in the passenger seats. By this point, Frances has been introduced to the Mobians at the Thorndyke Mansion.

FRANCES: Amy, there's my house down there.

AMY: Which one?

FRANCES: The one with the red roof.

AMY: Going to have to be a little more specific. I see three houses with red roofs.

FRANCES: It has a halfpipe in the backyard.

AMY: Oh! I saw it! That's great.

FRANCES: You should come for a visit sometime.

AMY: If it was just going to be the two of us, I will. Thanks!

FRANCES: Hey, Chris, do you think we could fly over our school?

Chris is too frightened to respond.

TAILS: Guys, this isn't a sight seeing trip. We've got to hurry and track down the next Chaos Emerald or Eggman will get it before we do.

FRANCES: Right, Tails. Sorry. But, does Chris seem a little off to you? He didn't seem that eager to join us.

TAILS: It could be because he had a bad experience with meeting Dr. Eggman once... and nearly fell to his death at the hands of Eggman.

FRANCES: Huh. That explains why he froze up when Eggman came to our school. But, while Eggman put his niece in a prison, he didn't really try to hurt any of us.

TAILS: The effects of trauma can still last a long time, Frances.

CHRIS: Did I really need to come with you guys? Couldn't Hope come?

TAILS: We've been over this, Chris. Hope's too busy working on a new aircraft with your grandpa, Rotor, and Uncle Chuck to come along this time.

CHRIS: But, still, why did I have to come? I don't have any special abilities or something to make up for it like Hope.

AMY: Hey, you do have your own skills, Chris. With you along, you're able to help Frances with understanding what we're up against much better.

FRANCES: Besides, you can't keep being afraid of Eggman forever.

TAILS: It may take you a while, but, don't worry. We'll be right by your side every step of the way, Chris.

AMY: I think it's time we change the subject. Like, Chris' new high-tech goggles.

CHRIS: Oh, these. I got them from Mr. Stewart. Do you like them?

FRANCES (Whispering to Amy): Mr. Stewart seems to pay more attention to Chris than the rest of our class.

AMY (Whispers): We think there's a reason behind that.

Unknown to them, Chris' goggles have a tracking device and Mr. Stewart is tracking down their location.

MR. STEWART: Looks like they're coming this way.

So, Mr. Stewart starts his car and he drives away. Meanwhile, at the White House...

COMMANDER: The power generators from Eggman's base are located under the tower, Mr. President.

PRESIDENT: I see.

COMMANDER: This information came to us from Rouge and Topaz.

PRESIDENT: Well, Rouge, I'm glad my confidence in you wasn't misplaced.

ROUGE: This spy stuff is right up my alley.

PRESIDENT: We're all very grateful. Now, let's review our battle strategy.

ASSISTANT: Right.

He turns to the commander.

TOPAZ: You're taking all the credit, I see.

ROUGE: I did do all the work.

TOPAZ (Thinking): I can't believe this bat!

ASSISTANT (After placing figurines of jets and boats on the map): It'll be a two pronged assault from both air and sea.

PRESIDENT: I see. But, what if Eggman's robots counterattack?

ASSISTANT: These forces are merely a diversion. Eggman will deploy his robots against this frontal assault. Meanwhile, a special forces team will approach the island from the opposite side and sneak into the base from the rear. Once they break into the generator room, they'll cut off Eggman's power supply.

AIDE 1: They'll be backed up by a team from G.U.N. including Rouge and some other agents.

PRESIDENT: Good.

COMMANDER: You know how it works, Topaz. There's a star in every show and we're just bit players.

PRESIDENT: Now, to discuss the subject of Mobians and this Hope Kintobor.

AIDE 1: We're ready to capture them and force them to work with us.

PRESIDENT: Actually, I sent someone to try a more diplomatic approach.

AIDE 1: Who, sir?

At the Thorndyke mansion, Jerome knocks on the door.

ELLA (Answering the door): Good day, sir. (she suddenly recognizes him from the news): Oh! You're the president's aide!

JEROME: Are there any Mobians home?

ELLA: Huh? (feigning annoyance): I don't know? What are they?

JEROME: I'd like you to let any Mobians here know that we're not here to capture them. We simply came at the request of the president to ask for their cooperation. You should also tell them that if they DO agree to work with us, they'll be rewarded. The president gave his pledge that Mobians will be offered citizenship and they'll be paid for their services.

ELLA: That's all very nice, but, I don't think I know them.

JEROME: We know you know them... (looking through a notebook): Ella.

ELLA (Gasps): How did you know my name?!

JEROME: We know all about you, this house, and your visitors. We also know you're housing Eggman's niece, Hope Kintobor.

ELLA (Angry): I already told you, I don't know anything about this!

JEROME: I can cause lots of problems for you, lady. Get any available Mobians! (Ella goes back inside and slams the door on Jerome, who tries in vain to open them; but, Ella opens the door again and splashes water from a bucket on him; she then slams the door again before Jerome shouts at his bodyguards): What kind of bodyguards are you?! You're supposed to jump in front of me! Now, I smell like floor wax!

MR. TANAKA: Ella, who was it?

ELLA: Someone who thinks just because he's the president's big-shot assistant, he can threaten me! As far as I'm concerned, he's all wet!

MR. TANAKA: Hmm?

Back at the White House...

PRESIDENT (On the phone): Yes, I see. Thank you. (he hangs up): He couldn't even get in the door to see any of them.

CHAIRMAN 2: I suspected this would backfire. Diplomacy can turn into hostility very quick with Wise.

AIDE 1: It looks like we'll have to stop Eggman ourselves, Mr. President.

PRESIDENT: It seems we'll have to count those others out.

ROUGE: You don't need them in the game~ I'm a Mobian, too. And while I'm hardly a Power-Type, I practically make a living sneaking past Eggman's security and dodging traps in ancient temples.

PRESIDENT (Excitedly): That'll do nicely!

ROUGE (Thinking): I won't let anything stop me from getting a Chaos Emerald this time. I'll save you yet, mama.

Meanwhile, with Mr. Stewart, the teacher looks at the tracker.

MR. STEWART: I wonder where they could be heading to now?

He turns onto the freeway as the X Tornado zooms overhead. Inside, the Chaos Emerald starts to react.

TAILS: Looks like we got one.

CHRIS: That's great!

TAILS: Can you see the locator screen?

CHRIS: South-southeast.

TAILS: Chaos Emerald, here we come!

Bunnie uses her jet boosters to keep up with the jet while carrying Antoine in her arms. Back with Mr. Stewart, the tracker shows them turning again.

MR. STEWART: Hmm, they turned again.

He makes a U-turn while the X Tornado lands out in a corn field.

CHRIS: The scopes say there's a Chaos Emerald in this field! We beat Eggman to it!

TAILS: We don't have to worry about getting out. We can look from in here.

CHRIS: What do you mean?

TAILS: Wait and see.

He presses a button on a joystick before pulling back on it. The rear cockpit starts to elevate thanks to a support within the X Tornado. The engines convert into large mechanical legs.

FRANCES: What's this?! (the jet then stands up like a classical mecha): Wow!

AMY: What happened, Tails?

TAILS: I transformed the X Tornado into a multi-purpose robot called the X Cyclone. I got the idea from one of Chris' model robot toys.

CHRIS: Huh. So, that's why it reminds me of Macross.

TAILS: So, let's go find the Chaos Emerald.

The X Cyclone walks off as Fiona watches while hidden in the corn.

FIONA: So, they're looking for a Chaos Emerald. I see that Tails has been busy. Guess I could use some nostalgia.

She heads for the farmhouse. Back with Mr. Stewart, still in his car...

MR. STEWART: Chaos Emerald, huh? So, THAT'S what that stone discovered on my first day is called. (he then takes a piece from his stick brake, and takes it off, revealing a communicator): This is Chalkboard Charlie calling Homeroom. Come in, Homeroom. Over.

Meanwhile, back at the cornfield...

CHRIS: The Chaos Emerald should be right around here.

AMY: But, we didn't bring a shovel.

FRANCES: That's okay. The X Cyclone can dig for us.

Tails reacts in shock, as if to say, "I made a big mistake!"

CHRIS: Hey, yeah. You did say it was an all-purpose robot, didn't you, Tails?

TAILS (Embarrassed): Well, technically, I said it was MULTI-purpose. It can serve multiple purposes, but, digging isn't one of them.

The others were surprised by this.

AMY: You didn’t think to give it a digging function beforehand?!

CHRIS: Guys, I bet the farmhouse we saw has a shovel we can borrow.

They hear footsteps approaching through the corn.

FRANCES: Huh? Who's there?

Fiona emerges, carrying shovels as Bunnie and Antoine land near the X Cyclone.

TAILS (Gasps): Fiona!

FIONA: Tails! I see you haven’t changed much.

AMY: We can see you haven't changed much either! You're still the same manipulative scale you were before!

FIONA: Sorry, have we met before?

FRANCES: Guys, who's this?

BUNNIE: Fiona Fox. All ya need ta know is we don’t get along!

ANTOINE: She may be against Eggman as we are, but, her methods are more hostile zan ours.

FIONA: I know you guys are looking for a Chaos Emerald. I brought you shovels to help out.

AMY: You can take your shovels and shove them right up your—

FRANCES (Interrupting): Guys, enough! Arguing isn’t going to solve anything. So, let’s just put our differences aside and let Fiona help out.

TAILS: The sad part is she’s not exactly wrong.

FIONA: Well, it seems we've come to an agreement.

She winks.

AMY: Don’t you DARE try playing with Tails’ heart! If you do, you’ll regret it!

FIONA: So, who’s your new girlfriend, Tails?

AMY: Okay, that’s it!

She pulls out her hammer, only for Antoine and Bunnie to hold her back.

ANTOINE: Hold it, hold it! Well, you are quite literally holding it, but, do not use it!

They suddenly hear the sound of a soothing melody played on a flute. Amy suddenly starts to feel calm from the sound of the melody. A female Mobian wolf emerges from the corn, playing her spear like a flute.

BUNNIE: Well, bless me~

ANTOINE: Lupe Wolf!

FRANCES: She's beautiful.

LUPE: This arguing accomplishes nothing. For the time being all of you share a common goal. I suggest you work together.

TAILS: It won't be easy, Lupe, but, we'll try.

LUPE: Very good.

So, some of the Mobians take the shovels and start to dig. As they do, Lupe continues to play her spear/flute. Meanwhile, at the White House...

AIDE 1: This may well be our only opportunity, Mr. President. If Eggman leaves to chase after that Chaos Emerald, we can attack the base while he's gone, which will improve the odds of our success.

CHAIRMAN 1: And we’ll have Eggman on the run.

PRESIDENT: Hmm...

ADVISOR: Mr. President?

PRESIDENT (After a pause): Alright, then. Let's get this job done.

At military base, jet pilots scramble to their jets. Outside the base on a nearby mesa, Knuckles hears the sirens blaring.

KNUCKLES: If I were a betting boy, I’d say they were getting ready for war. If they’re declaring it on who I think they are, they’re in big trouble.

Out on the sea, a fleet of ships is making their way to Eggman's lair. A small team of G.U.N. troopers with transmission equipment set up in a forest off the coast of Eggman's island. Inside Eggman's lair, Eggman is watching an infomercial on TV.

MAN ON INFOMERCIAL: Well, folks, let's see what V-10 Stain Remover does to this gooey grease stain! (the man wipes down the board, and on the board he cleaned, the grease stain is removed): Wow! Look at that!

GROUNDER: That stuff really works! That'll really help clean my treads!

SCRATCH: Let's call and order some!

EGGMAN: If only that stuff could work on infomercials, too.

SNIVELY: Wasn't infomercials one of your earlier schemes?

EGGMAN: I don't know what I was thinking back then.

As they continue to watch tv, the tv feed starts to malfunction.

GROUNDER: Looks like someone caught onto us using cable illegally.

A man's voice intercepts.

VOICE: They found a Chaos Emerald buried in a corn field near Tingalin Villa.

EGGMAN: Huh? What kind of infomercial is this?!

WOMAN'S VOICE: Yes, near Tingalin Villa. A giant jet landed nearby there. They're starting to dig now. It's near-

The transmission cuts out.

MAN IN INFOMERCIAL: Call in the next 10 minutes and receive a bonus bottle at no extra cost!

EGGMAN: Bring in the cards!

DECOE: Here you are, Doctor.

Eggman looks over his options.

EGGMAN: Now then... I'm not sure.

He puts the cards in his dashboard and pulls the lever. The board shows a chicken-looking robot.

SCRATCH: Funfun?! That knock-off of me is in the deck?!

EGGMAN: It's perfect!

Funfun's hangar is prepared for the robot's launch. Funfun revs its jets and takes off with Eggman following in his Eggmobile. The G.U.N. team sees them leaving.

COMMANDER: There he goes. Get ready to mobilize.

At Tingalin Villa, Chris notices that while Lupe's playing her spear/flute, he doesn't feel very tired.

CHRIS: Huh, that's weird. I don't feel tired, but, her song is very soothing.

ANTOINE: She's using zee Mystic Melody built into her spear. Eet allows her to ease tension, heal herself and her allies, demoralize her enemies, or even grant herself the powers of other Ability Types.

CHRIS: Oh. I see.

AMY: I've heard of the Mystic Melody. According to legend, it's a flute made from a tree that grew near the Master Emerald.

CHRIS: Wow.

FRANCES: Master Emerald?

AMY: The only object on Mobius more powerful than the Chaos Emeralds. It can neutralize or enhance them. It can even make entire land masses float in the air.

FRANCES: Whoa!

Suddenly, Lupe stops playing her song.

TAILS: What's wrong, Lupe?

LUPE: We're about to have some unwanted company.

AMY: It must be Eggman! Wait, how do you know?

LUPE: I have an empathic link with nature. This allows me to know what I need to know when I need to know it.

TAILS: We'll talk more about that later. For now, we have to be careful.

The sound of jet engines is heard overhead. All but Lupe gasp as Funfun lands in the field. Lupe readies herself for combat.

FRANCES: What's that?

The Eggmobile floats into view, causing Chris to freeze up in terror.

ANTOINE: Eggman!

AMY: We have to do something!

Tails jumps into the pilot's seat of the X Cyclone with Fiona jumping into the co-pilot's seat.

EGGMAN: Have you found my Chaos Emerald yet?

TAILS: We'll never give it to you!

AMY: That's right!

EGGMAN: Fine by me! I'll just take it!

BUNNIE: Come with me, Chris. Ah'll take ya ta a phone so ya can call Sonic n' not have to look at Dr. Eggman. (Chris doesn't respond): Or, Ah can just call him.

She grabs a hold of Chris' hand and they go off to find a phone with Frances following.

EGGMAN: Go! Get them, Funfun!

AMY: Show him what the X Cyclone's made of, Tails!

TAILS: Let's go!

He pulls one of the joysticks back. This causes the X Cyclone to transform back into the X Tornado. Funfun's fan begins whirring. This causes the X Tornado to lose balance in the air. Lupe uses her spear to anchor herself to the ground while Antoine does the same with his sword. However, Amy isn't as lucky. The extreme gusts hurl her across the cornfield.

AMY (As she's hurled): WHY DO I HAVE SUCH TERRIBLE FORESIIIGHT?!

TAILS: Amy! Whoa!

The gusts are enough to make the X Torndao plummet to the ground. The impact knocks Tails' head against the canopy, knocking him out.

EGGMAN: You're blowing those brats away! Good work!

Funfun's gusts intensify. So much so that it practically makes a trench in the cornfield. Fiona tries in vain to wake Tails up.

FIONA: Come on, Tails, wake up! (Tails doesn't respond): Your girlfriend's in trouble, kid! (still no response): Oh, for crying in my--I'm taking over! (she unbuckles her seatbelt and awkwardly climbs over to the pilot's seat): Some genius! Not putting in controls for the co-pilot seat in case of emergencies like this! (her hips get wedged between the canopy and the top of the pilot's seat; she tries to gain control, but, the fan is too intense for the X Tornado): Well, this is just fan-freaking-tastic! Tails is passed out, the controls are jammed, the fan's too intense for this tin can, and on top of all of this, I'M STUCK IN AN UNCOMFORTABLY AWKWARD POSITION!!!

Meanwhile, Bunnie is still running with Chris in tow. She sees Amy get hurled.

BUNNIE: Hang on!

She extends her Roboticized hand to reach Amy. Amy is grabbed by Bunnie and is lowered back down and anchored by Bunnie. The gusts destroy the barn and farmhouse.

EGGMAN: This is the most "Funfun" I've had in a long time!

Chris' goggles are blown off. With Mr. Stewart, he's still tracking down the signal.

MR. STEWART: That cornfield should be around here somewhere. (he looks at the screen to see that the signal is going upwards): Huh?

He stops his car, and looks outside, gazing upwards at the sky, but, sees nothing. He looks back at his monitor. He grumbles as he turns his car the other way. At Eggman's lair, G.U.N. fires missiles at the building.

GROUNDER: AAAH! EARTHQUAKE!

SCRATCH: TAKE COVER!

SNIVELY: It's not an earthquake, you metallic morons! We're under attack!

DECOE: Those fighter planes are firing at us! And there are battleships, too!

SNIVELY: Decoe! Bocoe! Prepare a counterattack!

DECOE AND BOCOE: Yes, sir!

SCRATCH: What about us?!

SNIVELY: Go and make sure all ground-level entrances are sealed!

GROUNDER: You can count on us!

SCRATCH: He can count on ME more!

SNIVELY: I can't count on either of you if you don't get to work! NOW GO!!!

SCRATCH & GROUNDER: Yes, o, midget maniac!

They leave in a hurry.

SNIVELY (Flatly): How they lasted as long as they did is nothing short of a miracle.

Decoe and Bocoe work on the counterattack. Outside the lair, a robot is launched as well as jets to launch missiles at the ships and jets. A few jets are shot down. A brand new E-11 Beakon also attacks. It smashes through a jet.

ROUGE (Watching from afar): They're putting up quite a fight. Now, let's knock out the power.

TOPAZ: Understood.

Rouge adorns her mask and signals to move forward, making her way over rocks. At the White House...

PRESIDENT (Reading off of a paper): My fellow civilians--I mean, my fellow citizens. Today, our millinery- no, our military sources.

CAMERAMAN: We’re live in 15 seconds, Mr. President.

The president uneasily adjusts his tie and clears his throat. At Station Square, the emergency address occurs.

SCARLET: We interrupt our regular broadcast to bring you this live emergency address from the President.

PRESIDENT: My fellow citizens. Today, G.U.N. forces launched an all-out assault against the headquarters of Doctor Eggman. Despite repeated warnings, Doctor Eggman has continued to threaten the peace and wellbeing of our nation.

CREAM (Watching the TV, determined): We have to tell Sonic and Sally about this!

She rushes outside and flies up to the roof, where Sonic and Sally are. Back at Eggman's lair, the G.U.N. jets and ships are still attacking.

PRESIDENT (Voiceover): This conflict is unfortunate, but, we can’t allow Doctor Eggman to achieve his goal of world domination. We must stop him now before it’s too late!

Eggman's forces are still counterattacking. At the base from earlier, Knuckles has hidden himself in the missile bay of a jet. Said jet takes off. In Grandpa Chuck’s secret lab, Rotor, Sir Charles, and Hope are putting the finishing touches on their project, a slightly bigger version of the X Tornado designed as a transport aircraft. Sonic and Sally enter, after Cream had warned them of what's going on.

SONIC: Is the new carrier ready yet?

HOPE: Not yet, Sonic.

ROTOR: It's almost ready, though.

SONIC: The humans are declaring war on Eggman!

HOPE: WHAT?! Oh, no! These humans have no idea what they're getting into!

CREAM: That's why I came to warn Sonic and Sally. It's scary.

HOPE: That’s a grave understatement! The firearms these humans use fire bullets, which are useless against metals from Mobius.

CREAM: What do we do?!

ROTOR: Right now, our best bet is to finish work on the Y Tornado.

CREAM: I know you guys can do that!

SIR CHARLES: I just hope we’re not too late when we finish!

At the cornfield, Funfun still has the fan activated.

BUNNIE: That blowhard has us pinned down!

Fiona is somehow able to get the X Tornado to shift into the X Cyclone, allowing it to stand still.

FIONA: We're not letting you win, Eggman!

EGGMAN: Would this be a bad time to point out that your--

FIONA (Interrupting): Finish that sentence and I will PERSONALLY introduce you to the ground! And trust me, your relationship will be VERY intimate! The same goes for comments regarding my current position!

EGGMAN: Regardless, that measly machine is no match for my robot!

FIONA: I seem to remember you saying that tons of times before, only to be proven wrong.

EGGMAN: Let's compete to see whose robot rules. Knocking the wind out of the X Cyclone would be a breeze!

FIONA (Unimpressed): You realize, of course, that you deserve to die for that pun alone.

Eggman snaps his fingers and Funfun's fan turns it up a notch. The X Cyclone stands firm.

EGGMAN: You seem to be way over your head.

FIONA: Bite me, you son of a—

Fiona’s swear is cut short when the scene focuses on Bunnie, Amy, and the humans.

FRANCES: What do we do?

BUNNIE: Ah have an idea! Amy, there’s a trackin' beacon in mah roboticized arm! The button ta activate it is in the back o' mah elbow!

AMY: Got it!

She presses the button. At the Thorndyke Mansion, NICOLE picks up the signal.

NICOLE: Signal detected. Bunnie D'Coolette is located in a cornfield in Tingalin Villa.

ROTOR: Bunnie must have used her tracking beacon. That means there’s an emergency there.

SONIC: Where's Tingalin Villa?

SALLY (Feeling her speed kick in): I'll use NICOLE's navigation feature to lead the way!

She gets into the elevator.

SONIC: Let's go, Sal!

The two dash off for Tingalin Villa.

ANNOUNCER: Will Sonic and Sally make it to Tingalin Valley in time? Stay tuned to find out.

The end.