A Second Shot

by TheWriterwith2manyideas

Summary:

Life brings the most unexpected surprises. Often these surprises are embraced. What if this surprise included a loved one brought back even if it were in a different form?

In this Au, Maria Robotnik has been successfully brought back by Dr.Eggman, following the notes of his late grandfather, Gerald Robotnik to create a living organism that could successfully contain the memories of the once deceased Maria Robotnik. Read along with the story to find out Maria’s journey in this second chance at life and what she’ll learn along the way.

Chapter 1: Awakening

It had been a tiresome several months of endless work. Trying to code his grandfathers notes. Countless failures. The Doctor had made sure to keep this project of his a secret both from the world and Sonics friends from ever finding out what he had been up to. Up to the point he had vanished from his usual “World Takeover” schemes. Looking over to the body slumbering in the water chambers he had developed thanks to Gerald’s notes. Within it was a blonde colored female hedgehog slumbering away. Two bangs curled and swept to her right and left side of her face resembling that of her human counterpart that oh so long ago had perished. And the longer quills curled at the ends.

This was the first artificial successful life form he created however there was something missing. Which was how to awaken them. Everything else was as it should be. Proper organs, a sample of DNA strong enough to stablized them. One he had taken from Light Gaia years ago. That he kept for at first research purposes until finally putting it to good use.

A hand ran down the right side of the Doctors face in frustration. What was missing? He already added some memories he could gather into her brain. Made sure her heart was stabilized and organs properly placed. It all seemed like everything was completed. Clicking away at the mouse he had in his other hand. He was going over the rest of the data and notes he had made sure to have written down.

“Let’s see here..”

A few more clicks filled the room. Orbot and cubot looked at one another in confusion and concern for their Master. He was always in this room every single day of every hour. Typing away or messing with the sleep chambers that his creation slept in. They had tried before on many occasions to pull him from the room but to no avail their attempts always failed. The rounder robot hesitantly approached his master hovering over to his side. Speaking in its usual calm demeanor.

“Sir, perhaps you should take a break? She won’t be going anywhere I assure you. I know you have high hopes for creating a being stronger then even shadow but..your sleep levels have been rather concerning for us to ignore.”

The doctor held the bridge of his nose thinking. A low grumble left him. Sleep? That wasn’t on his agenda right now. He was trying to get her awakened tonight if possible. “Can it orbot. Don’t you see I’m busy? My sleep can wait. I’m trying to figure out what’s missing. Why aint she awaken?

“Perhaps then sir we should drain the water and see if that allows any more progress to occur? “ orbot requested from his master. Half expecting Eggman to down right shut out this moronic idea.

“And lose all my work?! That’s hardly a risk I want to take..yet..I might have no choice. Let me just add this last thing in then and hope to chaos she awakens. I can see where my grandfather nearly went mad when creating Shadow. Cubot scratched the flat of his metallic head in confusion. He didn’t quite understand what their boss meant by going mad.

“Uh..boss? What do you mean by going mad?” The square robot so idiotically asked. This very question made eggman groan. How he wished he raised the robots intelligence higher then when he first created him. “What I mean by that cubot is that creating Shadow was no easy feat. Doom blood or not coursing through that insolent hedgehogs brain. Though this isn’t exactly easy either. I’ve had to work through the single dna strand I manage to collect back when I was on the ark. Just to give her some kind of memory. All while raising her maturity as well to match that of fifty years. During shadows day of awakening. I ran a scan through the ark mostly to see if I could dig up some old information on shadow at the time. Yet so many samples appeared. I had to add some mostly for my research purposes.

Orbot chimed in trying to counter the Doctors argument. “But wouldn’t most of the samples be no good? Or barely any traces? “ The doctor turned in his chair. Spinning it over to face Orbot. “No. A simple hair strand can last longer than you might think. That was the very building block I needed creating her.”

“And uh..just who is she boss? She looks like just a hedgehog to me. “ cubot mentioned hovering over to the chamber filled with water. Ivo sighed as he forced himself to get up and grab the clipboard off his desk. “My cousin. Maria Robotnik. As for the choice in form i had to make a form that would be compatible with Light Gaias DNA as well. Not to mention Maria’s original body has long decomposed into nothing. This form however won’t have to worry about that illness she had. A few other additions I’ve made was heightening her intelligence. While monitoring these abilities she’s inherited from light Gaia. Most might consider her a clone but she’s absolutely more then that. I thought wrong when it came to Dark and light Gaia. Light Gaia is far more powerful then his counter part. That the imbecile didn’t even realize till he regained his memory.

“But is it stronger than Dooms?” Orbot went on further with his questioning helping the doctor unhook a few of the cords. “It’s far more superior. Stable even. But it’s unclear what powers she would inherit be it positive or negative I’ll have to run test on her if she even awakens. That last bit of information I entered should allow things to run smoothly. “ Eggman went on to clarify to his robot companion. “But what if Shadow finds this out? Won’t he see this as desecrating her memory?” The round robot stated as he now pressed the drainage button. The computer practically came to life stating, “Awakening process starting.” These words went on repeat for awhile. All these three did was simply ignore its warnings. One would have to see it to believe it. “Help me get the door open. And cubot make yourself useful and set a few towels down. A robe as well will you?! “ eggman snapped at the robot who out of fear scrambled out the room not wishing to be dismantled.

“I know you said you raised her maturity to handle that of fifty years but then what’s her physical age Doctor? “ Eggman looked over to Orbot while they both were prying open the glass door of the chamber. “I’ve set her physical age to be in her twenties. It seemed the best setting for her. Anything lower and light gaias abilities might just break the thing like a twig. So it needed the proper body to store it. And I simply didn’t feel like dealing with starting her from an infant. As that would take far longer for her to handle everything! How’s that for an explanation orbot?! “

“Understood Boss.” Was all the robot let slip from its inanimate mouth. Cubot came in with the towels and robe, setting it down along the counter neatly folded. “Got all that you asked for boss right here.” Cubot patted the folded pile proud of himself for doing something right. “Glad you made yourself useful for a change. Now that the glass is open. For now will just give it a night see if any progress is made. As much as I don’t want to entrust you both to keep an eye for any movement I unfortunately have to agree with your statement earlier on sleep. If I’m to run these test properly I need to give this head of mine a rest. I want you both to just monitor her. If she at all gets out allow her to explore but stay close to her. Don’t disturb me till the morning.”

Both robots saluted their master giving an obedient nod. This surely was a task even the most simplest robot could handle. Watching their boss leave the room to his own chambers they both turned back around to face the slumbering blonde hedgehog. Health screenings immediately activated to watch her. Orbot tilted his head. Puzzled he placed his hand under his rounded chin in a thinking like manner,

“How odd..” said the rounded one. While his squared shaped partner looked to him. “W..What is it? Did ya catch something already Orbot?” The rounded robot floated over with caution to the blonde. “Yes as a matter of fact I did..”

“Which is..? What?”

“Well earlier while her vitals are indeed running properly she wasn’t experiencing any signs of breathing..but now that we’ve drained the water she is now. Quickly go grab one of the towels this could be a sign she’s awakening. And we must do as the Doctor instructed us to do.” Orbot answered. His partner going to grab the towels. Making its way quickly over to Maria it held the towel open prepared at any moment to wrap it around her.

And just like that, Her eyelid began to flutter. Opening half way. Eyes now half lidded. A sleepy expression was made. Her mouth a frown, rubbing her eye with a single hand. She looked at the pair quietly. No words capable of escaping her lips just yet. Unsure what to say. What to make of everything. Grabbing the sides of her chamber. She pulled her self out of it. Legs now trembling like that of a newborn fawn. Cubot aided the naked hedgehog wrapping a towel around her body and then proceeded to stretch his arm out to grab the robe he had sitting on the counter. The mechanical arm stretched and curved over objects before reaching its destination. Grabbing the robe it slung itself back within and instant. Following these actions he wrapped the robe now around her afterwards and tied it for extra privacy.

“Mistress you should take it easy after all we don’t want you hurting yourself. You have just only opened your eyes after all. “ Orbot insisted to maria she take it easy. Her eyes while blue the pupils were that of a shimmering pearls dead in the center. Stared dead at the robot her expression unchanged. “Take it easy..?” She finally said. “But where am I..? Who are y—“

*THUD*

Before Maria could finish speaking she dropped to her knees. Hands lay flat along the cold hard floor. Body shaking. Left of water dripping down her quills, arms, and legs. Being in this new body would take a lot of getting use to if she’s to navigate everything properly. Both robots rushed to her side. Orbot grabbed her upper torso while cubot laid a hand flat under her stomach. The two using just a small bit of their strength to sit Maria down.

“My sensors detected your shaken up right now and experiencing some confusion. Perhaps you’re just overwhelmed by everything. Cubot is that spare room ready that the doctor asked us weeks ago to prepare? My memory is a tad foggy from my recent update.” Cubot gave out a nervous laugh. “I..I think..ya know I haven’t been there in weeks..but maybe we should take her to the kitchen? Get her something to eat and then check?”

Orbot shook his head in disbelief. So much for his squared shape partner to be of any help. He looked to Maria keeping his can demeanor the same as he spoke. His inanimate mouth flashing a light blue lined light up and down occasionally as he spoke. “How does that sound to you..mistress..? “

“I..I..suppose that idea works…”

Orbot nodded. “Then allow us to help you walk until you grow accustomed to it. After all the boss did assign us to help you while he’s away in his chambers. Come Miss, I’m sure we can make you feel right at home!” The robot clasped his hands together sounding pleased.

“P…Please lead the way then..”

“Very well.” Orbot then grabbed Maria by one arm. Cubot grabbing the other making sure to handle her with the upmost care. They both guided her out the room slowly so she could get use to walking. Her pawed feet grazing the floor. Fur sticking up with each step. As the coldness send goosebumps down her spine. Detecting another anomaly coming off of Maria. Orbot stopped him and his partner in their tracks. “Mistress..are you cold..? We could grab you perhaps some socks for your feet if that’ll help.”

“Y..Yes the floor is..a little cold..”

“Wait right here then mistress I will go gather you some socks from your room. Cubot do keep her from falling will you? I will only be gone but a moment.” Cubot gave a tight grip to Maria’s arm causing her to squeak from the change in his grip. Cubot Only had done this however out of trying to use all his strength to keep her stranding now that it was just himself holding her up and didn’t wish to fail in his task. “I gotcha miss! You can count on good ole cubot!”

Scanning around down the hall looking at some of the rooms that were labeled. Orbot jolted in place. He finally spotted the room that had labeled under “Maria.” Going over to the keypad Orbot entered the code that the doctor set for much more minor rooms that didn’t involve building his usual weapons of destruction or his research on who knows what. Always a different fixation but the goal was always the same. How to defeat that pesky blue hedgehog. The door beeped as it opened up. Entering the room, Orbot could safely confirmed that he and cubot did finish it after all. “That’s certainly a relief. Now then..socks. Can’t be gone to long. I don’t think cubot would be able to hold the mistress up to much longer if he is experiencing some trouble already. Hovering over to the dresser. Orbot grabbed the silver handle and pulled it. The drawer now slid open. Taking a pair of socks out, that were specifically designed for mobians. Orbot returned in a matter of minutes holding the pair in a single hand.

“These should do just fine mistress so you shouldn’t have a problem wearing these. Do you think you’ll need some assistance putting them on..?” The bot offered more of his help out to Maria. Quietly dismissing his offer she shook his head and politely told him ‘no thank you.’

“I..it’s okay you don’t need to.. if I’m to get use to things..I..I do need to get use to doing things on my own to..but thank you that’s very kind of you..” the blonde quietly said as cubot helped her to the floor now. Orbot handing her the socks watched as she took them into her hands. She stretched one of her legs out and leaned forward. Tongue sticking slightly out to the side of her mouth as she focused to put her socks on. These were longer socks that would reach up just to her knees. Definitely more comfortable now. Doing the same with the other foot she pulled the last sock uo to her knees. And laid her palms flat along the floor, pushing down as she rose to her feet. Struggling at first she felt her pawed feet that were now covered in socks slip a little.

“W..Whoa!”

“Careful miss!!!! We don’t need you getting—hurt..” cubot stopped himself from finishing his sentence as he saw the once scene that looked like it could fall to disaster was now replaced by Maria sliding forward as if she were in skates down the hall in her socks slipping and sliding in them going with the motion. Her giggling filling the once quiet atmosphere. At the speed she was going the bots has to quicken theirs in order to catch up with her.

“Mistress please come back here! Or at least slow down so we can catch up to you!”

The wind grazed her face that she had built up from her own speedy movements. She was to lost in her own child like fun to hear them from how far away she was. This was a change of pace then what the robots were similar. The base never was filled with fun like this before. Never with the doctor that was for certain. But with her it felt like a breath of fresh air for them to witness. She spun in her movements sliding backwards now.

“Heheheh!!! Keep up slow pokes!”

This was surely going to be a long night and this was only just the beginning of things to come. What else lied in store for them the rest of the night?

Chapter 2: It hurts to remember…

Summary:

Here you go my lovelies another chapter released early! Hope you enjoy it and let me know your thoughts for this one down in the comments.

Wandering the hall doing patrols as to his masters orders the metallic blue hedgehog was quick to jump back against the wall in attempt to dodge the sliding blonde hedgehog. It seems the doctor’s creation finally was awakened. And speeding like she had no sense in a pair of socks at that. Following behind Maria were Orbot and cubot. Metal sonic jumped in front of them placing his blade like fingers along his waist scolding them. Thanks to the new voice box he was given he could finally speak his mind.

“Just what exactly do you think you both are doing?”

Orbot and cubot as if in sync raised their hands defensively trying to reassure the higher ranked bot that they had everything under control. Orbot being the first to speak out to defend Maria’s actions. “You see the Doctor ordered us to simply follow the mistress aeound if she awakens and just report to him of our findings when he awakens. We offered to take her to the kitchen. Then the mistress paws got cold so I got her socks and— “ The rounded robot continue to ramble nervously now rubbing his palms together.

“So you call this under control? What if she could slip into one of the other rooms? She may be our masters cousin but even some places are off limits to the likes of her!” Metal sonic snapped all while expressing the seriousness in it all. “If it’s such a difficult task I shall watch her since it seems the both of you can’t even keep up with her. I on the other hand have no problem in that department. I can tell our master that you two just couldn’t handle the task. Now go some where else. She’s my responsibility till otherwise.”

Orbot and cubot sighed in defeat. Metal sonic had a strong point. Unlike them he was more than capable of chasing her. Cubot lowered his head in shame. “Y..ya got a point there Metal..will just uh..handle our next update. Right, Orbot..?” Cubot nervously asked his partner. Nodding in agreement. Orbots red gloved hand grabbed cubot yellow one and flew off in a hurry. They never were metals biggest fans anyways. The metal hedgehog down right frightened them. And if the guy got angry? Things would only get worse so they chose to just remain obedient and not question metals motives. Rushing away, It wasn’t long till they were out of metals sight. He shifted his gaze over toward down the hall. The metallic hedgehog powered his jets up on his back and sped down the hall after her.

Losing her balance, the blonde fell on her stomach. “Oof!” Was all that was heard down the hall. Just out the tank and she’s already such a klutz. Metal thought to himself as he flew directly now in front of her. Stopping his jets as his feet touched the ground. He grabbed her by her waist, bringing her to her feet. His bladed hand took her ungloved one that was riddled in blue spirals along her fingers. She flinched as one of his blades fingers had cut her palm as he pulled.

“H..Hey! W..What is this feeling..? Why does your hand hurt..?!” She still had so much to learn about life. Being brought back while she had some memories not all were there just bits and pieces. And the sensation of pain was something she was relearning this instant. A drop of golden blood dripped from her hand and fell to the glossy white floor.

“Pain. That is the sensation I’ve been told the living feel when something simply even cuts them. Such a pitiful fault you beings feel..but learn it well.” Metals voice ran cold and emotionless. Slowing her steps down as she was scolded by the bot. The blonde now matching his walking speed. Every once in a while she winced at the pained sensation that had developed in her hand. “C..could you not hold it so tight though please..?”

-The metal hedgehog didn’t budge nor utter another word, Only tightened his grip purposely. The metal hedgehog took a left turn down what seemed to be an endless hallway. All of it looked the same. White walls and glossy marble floors. Reaching to a halt. He slid the door open that led into the kitchen.

“Here you should have everything you need and—“ Just as Metal Sonic was about to finish his sentence he was interrupted by the blonde. This raised the bots irritation once again. He never was known for much patience at times. Guess it came from copying his living counter parts data. How insufferable.

“I’m..not to sure what to make..” Maria said in shame. Sure she was given some memories not all but enough to get by. Thiugh some felt so blurred out. Though this would be another time to worry about later. As for other stuff some things she had to relearn on her own.

“Really now..? You are so incompetent. Is this what I’ll be having to deal with till you grow more accustomed to things female?”

“N..not forever. Maybe you can teach me? Until I know just enough things to cook. Then I won’t bother you again about it.” Maria clasped her hands together, head held down as she begged. Her voice now going slightly high pitch.

“Pleaseeeeeeeeeee…!!!!!”

“UGH! You annoying wench! Fine! Just stop with the begging and that insistent squealing! I cannot stand that sound! If our boss didn’t create you I would have had you buried in the ground by now!” Metal sonic clawed at his head. It felt like the back of his own head was on fire from all the pleading she had been doing. If he were living he would be by this point suffering from what would feel like an endless migraine.”Now let me think. I need to look back on some old data so it’s gonna take me a minute. Understand?!”

 

Maria unclasped her hands held them behind her back and gave a nod. Three dots appeared over where Metal Sonics red gloomy eyes were. Words just next to them saying “LOADING.” This robot was so odd to her yet he only put up with her because she was the bosses new prized project. She knew it just as well as the bot itself did. Wasn’t exactly a feeling she liked neither. Made the girl feel like basically a trophy that shouted to the world. “I created an artificial intelligent being.” The words faded from the bots eyes. His red digitized eyes now rolling back into place. “We’re you able to find some thing..?” The blonde asked Metal. Her voice once more soft like that of silk.

“Indeed I have. We will be making what they call Pasta. Odd word but it is one of the doctors foods he put in my databanks.”

“But why did he put it in yours specifically..? You don’t seem like the type of robot to cook..erm..no offense of course sir.” Maria eyed the not once again up and down. The metallic hedgehog really didn’t fit the whole caretaker look. “That..is for another time. Now are you hungry or not woman?”

Nodding rapidly. Her fingers curled into a fist now feeling pumped to learn. “Y-Yes! But please stop calling me woman…or female it’s just Maria. Nothing more. Okay..?”

“Whatever, you infuriating woman.” Metal Sonic continued purposely ignoring her request. Prized possession or not she still hadn’t earn his respect. So why should he be formal with her? He walked past the blonde hedgehog. Motioning for her to follow without so much as turning his head to look at her. Puffing her cheeks. She reluctantly followed him. Having gone over to open one of the cabinets and check the shelves for the ingredients they would need for cooking. “So what’s it say first that will need?..”

“In the file it says will need, spaghetti noodles, tomato sauce, ground beef, garlic, cheese. But as for seasoning it says you can choose whatever seasoning. I suppose it means everyone had their own preference for how to season this meal. So I suppose anything will do. Go check the cabinet we should have most of what will need from there. I’ll handle the freezer. You’re not exactly..” Metal sonic looked at Maria who stood there still wrapped in a towel and robe on Only being held by the single tie and knee high socks.

“Dressed appropriately..” The metallic hedgehog finished his sentence from there going about his way to go gather the ground beef from the freezer leaving Maria to her own devices. Opening the cabinet she took out the noodles, tomato sauce. “He said cheese..soooo that would be kept..here!” Maria turned opening the fridge behind her and took out a bag of shredded cheese. “Okay! I got all we need from here. He also mentioned I needed a pot of water to boil just before he left. That shouldn’t be to hard..” Setting the assortments out along the counter. The next thing in her quest was finding a pot to fill. Rummaging through cabinets moving different pans aside she pulled out one that was star shaped. Scratching her head in confusion her thoughts being said aloud. “Just what does he use this for…? Kind of odd to have with cooking..I think. And it looks like he had a whole bunch of them. I wonder what I’ll do from here..? Maybe that robot knows! I can also finally ask his name too. We’ve been so distracted that I never thought to ask.” Moving more pots aside the cabinet itself was far bigger on the inside then it appeared from the outside. To where someone could climb in. That is what this hedgehog did. Climbing into what seemed like an endless amount of room within a small structure.

Upon his return, the metallic blue hedgehog scoffed at the sight he was witnessing. The blonde hedgehog now half way into the cabinet. Was she really having this much trouble just locating a pot? “You’ve managed to find the ingredients but are struggling to find a pot? Is this the only cabinet you’ve checked?”

Bumping the top of her head against the low ceiling of the cabinet. A squeak left her. Maria was rubbing the sides of her head in attempt to soothe the sudden ache she brought on herself. “Owww….”

“Oh don’t even bother answering. Clearly finding a pot is still to advanced for someone whose just awakened tonight.” Metal sonic went over setting the ground beef in the sink and filling it with warm water to quicken the process of defrosting. Going over to Maria. The metallic hedgehog grabbed her by the hips from behind. His blade like finger tips piercing the robe and towel itself. They just barely grazed the woman’s skin as he pulled her out from being submerged half way into the cabinet. “At this point you would be better off grabbing a stool and sitting there..far. Where I can’t see you.”

“Well now you’re just being rude..”

Maria said with her arms crossed, lips pouted. As metal sonic hauled her away and set her down on the floor. “No. Just truthful. Right now until you become useful you’re just a nuisance to me. Speaking of useful. Fill this up.” -metal handed a pot he had grabbed out from the cabinet above and dropped it in her arms not even giving her a second to stand before taking it into her arms. A hand reached for the edge of the counter to act as support as she gripped it tightly pulling herself up to her wobbling feet. Pot in the other arm. “If you don’t like helping you could just say so…err…”

“Metal Sonic. Just metal for short. Does that address your naming issue? If so then good!” Once more he ignored certain things she said to him. It mattered hardly to the robot as all he was focused on was getting her fed and off to her room for the night dealing with her was already a lot on his plate. When he could be doing far better things such as patrolling the halls, scouring the area for any signs of a break in. Anything! If it meant not dealing with this for another second more.

Switching the water on as she had already managed to make it to the sink in one piece without anymore kitchen disasters waiting for her. “Hey um..metal..? Could I ask you something..?” Her voice was filled to the brim with nervousness and uncertainty. Her hands occasionally trembling while she held the handles of it watching the water pour like a miniature waterfall into the pot. The robotic hedgehog was stirring the sauce he already had been working on, on the stove top. “If it’s something moronic then don’t ask. But you may ask a question if it isn’t.”

“What’s um..what’s going to happen to me..? Now that I’m awake I mean. What will he do? What am I suppose to do..?”

“Most likely the doctor will put you through test to better understand the strength of your abilities. See where your most suitable in whether it be in combat or defense he’ll run both scenarios. To figured out those questions of his. The doctor after all said you contained the blood of Light Gaia after all.” Metal said with full harshness ro his voice. His focus on stirring occasionally looking over to see her carry the bot on over and place it over another spot along the stove top boil that metal had already burning away as it waited for the pot all this time.

“Light Gaia..? Who is Light Gaia..?” Her uncertainty turned back to curiosity now. Eyes filled with wonder as all she wanted was to now know more not just about what to expect but of herself too. “Must you ask a lot of questions woman..?” Metal asked, setting the spoon down on a plate.

“Heh( sorry I just can’t help it. It’s hard not to ask when there’s only a little I remember. Does having his blood make this light Gaia a parent too..?”

“Light Gaia is the creator of this world bringing light into this realm where we dwell. A quite powerful one at that. But yes he could be considered your father in a technical aspect given while you weren’t born from him directly his blood helped form and mold you. Into the body you have now. While the doctor had other samples from other creatures…they wouldn’t be able to cure the disease you use to have but light Gaias would. The doctor learned of this through trial and error with previous attempts at creating life. Tell me what memories exactly do you recall? “

“Memories I recall..huh?” Maria looked up as she thought for a moment thinking back on very little. A single digit pressed close to her lip. “Well…I..I remember the sound of gun shots..the sound of them ringing constantly echoing through the halls. A strange place I can’t remember the name of but I remember looking through a large glass window..down at a..a planet! There were so many stars..a place I’ve never been too. And then there’s..”

“There’s what..?” Metal sonic looked back to her as he made his way over to the sink to grab the de-thawed ground beef from. “Well..there’s a silhouette..someone was there with me..but I can’t remember his face. Or his name..but why does it hurt not to remember him..?” The blonde gave a heavy breath as she placed a hand along her chest. Her heart began to ache. But why..? Why ache over something you can’t remember? Or someone for that matter? Were they really that important to her? To where when she made so much as an attempt to recall some of the memories she were given it pained her. Who could he have been. Her crystal blue eyes now were clouded in tears. As they streamed down her cheeks she gave a weak smile trying to be strong as to not raise concern. “Why does it hurt so much..? “

As much as metal wasn’t the type to be sympathetic. He stopped himself from grabbing the meat from the sink. Went to her side and took her hand leading her to the table to sit at. “Perhaps I’ve been to harsh, just sit here I shall finish up. Don’t over think what might not be worth remembering. If it comes to you then allow it to. That’s all I’ll say on the subject for now.”

Metal sonic went back to finish up dinner. It took less than 15 minutes to finish the rest up. Once the meal was finished being handled. He escorted her out of the kitchen. Bowl in hand. Her arm in his other as he led her to her room. It may have been best to leave her where she would be more comfortable anyways rather than at the table in the state she was in. The bot wasn’t blind sided to the blonde being upset and overwhelmed in her own tangling emotions that now all we’re trying to flood back in. Seating her at her bed. He placed the remote on her bedside. Perhaps simple tv could distract her mind away he figured before taking his leave as well. “Finish up your meal and I’ll come by later to take your plate. Good night.”

The door sealed shut behind him. Leaving her once again alone. Now in her room left to think. Instead of taking up the plate. She went over turned the lights off in her room and turned on the heart shaped lamp that glowed a dim blue light. That was at her bedside. Snatched the pillow into her arms and squeezed it. Her small frame clutching it. The tears never did feel like they really stopped even when they had earlier. Right now..she felt helpless, helpless to not understand her own existence. An to not being able to grasp who lies within these memories of hers. When feeling up to it maybe she could ask more about the subject but for now it was best to leave her be.

Chapter 3: A Spark

Summary:

Hey there everyone here is another chapter. My main goal is to try and update more frequently here for each of my stories. But if you’re enjoying the story so far please let me know and also let me know what you think so far of it. As it does help inspire me to keep making these chapters.

Hours had passed since the newly awakened hedgehog had drifted off to sleep in the room given to them. Her arms still clutched around the pillow. A strand of drool running down the edging. It was quiet. Not a sound to be heard from outside the sealed room doors. But that silence didn’t last much longer. The sound of metallic foot steps approached her door. The metal hedgehog once again was about to deal with the blonde he found so dreadfully annoying. His bladed hand pressed against the scanner.

A single green beam ran up and down the scanner as it searched the robots chip for identification. And then “BING!” Went the scanner. Announcing the approval of Metal Sonic being allowed in. As he stepped in he could see just from the door way her ear twitching. “And here I thought you would be already up.”

She sluggishly lifted her head up. Eyes half open. Covering her mouth she yawned. As calm as things were he was already made full aware that Dr.Eggman had big plans for the girl. Ones he was strictly instructed not to inform her of. “Very funny..metal..”
Said the woman that now sat up on the side of her bed. As much as she would have preferred a conversation the robot stayed cold towards her. He didn’t utter another sentence more than the way he greeted her. Opening a drawer he took out a training uniform. It was a jumpsuit that had a black and grey coloration. Tossing it at her face. Maria wasn’t at all repaired by being suddenly bombarded by the suit thrown to her. Finally he spoke.

“The Doctor will want you down stairs immediately after you get dressed. You can eat later. Now hurry up and get dressed woman.”

Holding the shoulders of her suit by her finger tips. Face growing as red as a rose in the summer sunshine. Surely the bot didn’t care but for her it all was matter of decency with her reaction. “U..um metal could you turn around at least..? So I can get dressed.”

The bot rolled his eyes crossing his arms. Head turned towards the corner of the room. Giving out a rude remark to her request all while obliging. “I haven’t little interest in your body. That is something living organisms find attractive. I on the other hand don’t have a single interest in such nor do I require it.”

Seeing the big turned around. She knew he only tolerated her. As harsh as metal sonic could be at least he didn’t up and dismiss her simply request for privacy. Slipping out the bed. Her paws once more pressed against the hard cold floor. “Will I be able to wear shoes for this..Eheh..because the floors a little c—“

“No. Jumpsuit Only.” Metal waved a single finger. The Doctor wishes to see all what you can do. Whether it’s speed. Flight. Etc. he doesn’t wish to be surprised. Now are you almost done?” Metal questioned, growing more impatient With each second that past. His impatiences was something he regrettably inherited when he scanned some of Sonics personality so long ago.

Hurrying up with sliding the remaining parts of the suit on. She pulled the last sleeve over her arms. “Uh M-Metal..?”

“WHAT IS IT NOW?!”

“C-Could you help me with the zipper..? It’s a little hard to reach for me…” Maria asked rubbing her arm trying to ease her nerves from the tension in the air over something so little. The metal hedgehogs crimson eyes dimmed as a way of displaying his disinterest at the task at hand. Turning back in the blondes direction he approached her going behind the hedgehog proceeding to zip the suit up.

*Gasp* I..It feels a little tight metal..”

“Quit whining. You just have to get use to if that’s the only reason you feel discomfort.” The metal hedgehog looked seeing her tugging at the front part that squeezed her breast. Making him possibly second guess his previous statement given. The suit itself hugged her body displaying all her curves. And barely being able to contain her bust. To prevent any unwanted scenario the bot went back over to the dresser. Pulling on the golden colored handle taking out a sweat shirt and tossing it to her. “Put this on. If the front tears at least you’ll have some cover up.”

This time luck was on her side. She caught the sweatshirt, pulling it over her head. Sliding the sleeves on. The hoodie had an odd resemblance to someone. Though she didn’t quite under stand it. On the hood had a pair of ears with a single red streak going down the from the head to the back of the black sweatshirt. “How’s this look..?”

“Sadly that hoodie reminds me of a traitor we use to have on our side long ago. But that’s another time. Now then..MOVE IT!!!”The metal hedgehog wrapped Maria by the wrist pulling her out the room. He was marching down the hallway with Maria in tow. With the way he moved she was struggling to keep up with him. One foot tripping over the other. Her quills flying back behind, bangs getting caught over one of her eye. If she wasn’t so frightened it could have been considered a beautiful sight. Except it wasn’t. But dreadfully so her heart was pounding, she had a bad feeling about all of this. Why? Why was this nerve racking feeling telling her to run? Flee while you still can breathe…

——————————————————————
Awaiting for their arrival. Doctor eggman sat in a chair located in the viewing room of the testing grounds. As evil geniuses go he had to think of his own safety before hand. Gaia only knows how these experiments will go. Grabbing his mug he was about ready to take a sip from his coffee until he had seen metal sonic basically dragging Maria by the arm now into the room. Grumbling he set his mug back down on the table by his paper work. “Glad to see you both finally made it. Now then..chain her up.”

There it was. The reason for her lingering instinctive fear. Cousin or not. He didn’t think to put the idea of family in mind. After all..she was a mere creation with the memory’s Maria had poured into her. And a simple few samples of her. She could never be HER! Not the real one at least that long had perished. The blondes pupils shrunk her body trembling from the very words of how heartless the doctor sounded as he said this. The robot didn’t even give a second thought as he dragged her over to the chains located on the far left side. He snatched the collar to it placing it along her throat. Snapping it shut. It was though they were treating her like a wild beast. Unpredictable or untamable. Next were her wrist with the exception the chains could stretch that bound her arms.

Pressing the intercom button, Eggman spoke into the mic. “Alright metal go to the other side of the room now.” As instructed he then followed his creators orders going to the opposite side of the room. “Good metal..now I want you to strike her..as hard as you can. To see her reaction time alone. And try not to kill her would you?”

As much as the bot despised the blonde his programming started acting abrupt. With warning signs popping up through his vision. Perhaps it was from the recent updates personality scan he had redone of sonic. But it was telling him “ERRROR! Negate! Refuse! DO NOT HARM CIVILIAN!” The bot clenched its head for a moment. A sudden refuses from a direct order? Sure he had times he acted to his own accord but why now? To desire to act against his master? Was it this girl?! Shaking his head he forced himself to decline the error. Curling his bladed fingers into a fist. The metal hedgehog was geared up and ready to attack the blonde hedgehog. The thing rushed at her slugging his fist into Maria’s gut as hard as it could hit just as it would attacking sonic and his friends.

With her reaction time being slow she fell to her knees. Arm holding her side as she spat up blood. Each and every reaction made no matter the outcome eggman wrote it down in his note. Once again the intercom was pressed. “Maria dear why not try actually defending yourself rather than let him pummel you. I didn’t create a weakling.”

It felt like a person poking a stick at her telling her to do something as though she were a pet. A weaken sigh left her as she raised her hand watching the bot come for her again. Her quills glowing a bright white light her eyes matching the same shade now as that of Light Gaias orb he once wore along his neck. The power of light Gaia flowed in such a small being. But in order to see what she was capable of she had to be pushed. No..more like shoved into the right direction. The reaction time once again was to slow however before she could use some kind of extent of her powers. Her head was grabbed forcefully and slammed into the floor. A loud whimper left her. A cry filled the room.

“FIGHT YOU FOOL!!! “

Eggman demanded as he yelled over the intercom. I’m perhaps he should of tried harder to remove the pacifist nature from the girls memories. No matter she was already awakened he would just have to strip it from her by force. From his yelling alone srill lied on the floor feeling helpless. Metal sonic raising his foot slammed it down into her ribs. Why hadn’t she collapsed yet? Her body had already lost so much blood. But each time her body glowed the same coloration as that of her eyes. Each hit repaired. When she received a cut it was sealed like it never existed in the first place. But it only made the pain much worse..to continually go through. The Doctor however hadn’t taken note yet of this as he hadn’t realized each time her body glowed when she was hit, it was healing itself instinctively.

“Let’s go to the next test..”

He flipped a switch. The lights turning off in the testing room that Metal and Maria resigned in.

-Night vision mode activated-

“Focus…Maria..”

The woman told herself. Her hands held in front of the other. Open as she focused a small bit of her energy into forming a ball of light. Once big enough it was then tossed into the air. Acting as a light source in the now dark room. It’s light shun as bright as the sun almost. Pure and warm. The glow itself could be inviting to anyone if she had done this outside the base it could have been seen as some beacon. “Hmm..it seems these ability’s lie under that of light…OH HO HO! How interesting..this needs to be tested further.” The doctor gave a maniacal laugh feeling sheer pride in himself. He really had done it! Creating a being that could harness Gaias capabilities. There standing before him!!! From then it was written in stone the hedgehog was only a test subject. To see if another life could be brought by the thanks to science. Only to further be used as a toy to experiment on. All the evil genius saw on her was the test subject. Nothing more.

For weeks the tests were endless. Day in and day out never ending. Constantly healing over every scrape! Every bruise! And mending her own broken bones. It was draining. And from it all she begged for death. The sweet mercy of it freeing her was all that ran through her head now. The playfulness she once displayed when awakened had died down somewhat. All of this was making poor woman feel numb. But being immortal also has its..disadvantages. By time she had reached six months of being awakened. A new test was proposed. One she never believed she would be given. A field test. Her creator wanted to see what she was capable of if she were to have a taste of the outside world. Not without precaution of course. The scientist was down on one knee to meet the hedgehogs level. Placing a collar along her throat. The sound of electricity zapping as it snapped into place locking in to secure itself around her neck echoed through the hall.

“That should do it..I don’t need you getting any ideas in that brain of yours. Thinking you can run off else where. Do you understand? Maria?”

His voice was so cold to her not a sign of any warmth to it. He talked as though he had no emotion whenever he did speak to her. She hadn’t made a single reaction when he asked the question whether she understood or not. Because of her failure to do so eggman have a single press of a button on a miniature remote he held now behind his back initiating and electric shock at a high volume. Given how many times he had experimented on her through countless torturous tests he figured what would it matter to do another? A loud scream left the woman as she fell to the floor clawing at her throat while huddled on the floor lying on her side. Gasping for air as she felt like the breath from her lungs on an instant stolen from her. The shocking pain felt like agony. What’s more? Her body Only continued to heal it furthering her torment.

“I..I..!”

She continued to gasp for air her breathing hitched as she was kicked in her mid stomach sending her sliding across the hard surface. The wall created a loud bang absorbing the impact of the girls body hitting the steel wall.

“When I asked if you understood. I expected an answer not for you to stand there like an idiot! Now should I clarify further? Turn on me and the electric shock won’t be your only concern. Remember the Dark Gaia test?..”

Still shaking and huddled along her side on the floor. Her eyes shifted to the very corners, hair dangling messily over her face and spread along the floor. Obediently she now was quicker this time to answer him.

“Y..Yes I do..”

*Gulps*

“Then you know just how painful it is injected into you. But this time it won’t be in a small dosage..not even an immortal like yourself could even withstand it.” The Doctors sinister grin grew wider as he explained further about the details of the disguised collar. “If you betray me I’ll make sure that collar injects every drop in those veins of yours. So I hope you stay on your best behavior.” The doctor grabbed Maria forcefully by her chin. His thumb and index finger. Her cheeks being squished by this notion.

“So be a good hedgehog and follow your orders! I want you to gather intel on Sonic and his friends. Find anything of use I’ll want you to bring it directly back to me. Your collar will act as a communicator ro me be pressing the button along the side. Inform me of any thin and everything that’s of importance! You have one whole month. I don’t want to see you here until then. Rather not have any of those foolish hedgehogs following you back! Now…”

The doctor threw Maria’s chin out of his grasp.

“Get out of my sight..!”

Her body still felt so weak. But if she didn’t move there could be worse consequences awaiting her if she stayed where she sat along the floor. Pressing her hands along the hard surface she pushed up onto her knees. Balancing herself on to her feet. She looked over her shoulders for Only a single second to see the man whom created her standing there as though he already disapproved her. She had no desire to fail the person she learned to fear over time. Turning away and heading down the hall at the entrance was metal sonic leaning against the massive pair of steel doors. One bladed hand holding a back pack by the strap. He was holding it out for her to take. While Metal and Maria had, had there differences he had grown at least to better tolerate the woman enough to the point he prepared a bag for her departure. She had to remember he to was just as much of a prisoner as she was to this place. Reaching her hand out she took the bag with care and thanked the metal hedgehog. And swung the bag over her left shoulder shoulder.

“Thank you Metal.”

With just a nod of the head, Metal sonic would open the large doors for Maria to step through. A sudden rush of a warm summer breeze blew against her fur. The wind tickling her cheeks had the woman illicit a giggle. It felt so welcoming. Like she had no collar to restrain her to this prison. And the smell of pine filling her So why couldn’t she move forward? She so desperate wanted to take that step. Take the leap that would send her out into the world for the first time. What was holding her back? The fear of not knowing what to expect. Before the woman could zone out. Metal sonic gave Maria’s back a light push to give her that nudge she needed to move.

It started at first with her walking till a sudden burst of energy ran through her body. Excitement ran through her mind temporary or not she would be away. Her arms held outward and fingers gliding across plants teachable to her finger tips that had long gone from this world that surrounded the base. The light Gaia energy radiating off her brought life to that of the deceased plants including the dead grass that surrounded eggmans lair. Creating a lush environment in her leave. A bird finally freed from her cage to take flight was how she felt. Gaining the chance to spread her wings and see what lied ahead. With the base now no longer in the distance.

“I..I’m finally away from there..!”

Maria shouted at the top of her lungs overjoyed as she ran. As an hour or two past it felt as though she had been running forever. Never even giving a second thought to take a break. The taste of freedom was too grand to miss out on. Though had she stopped she would have never reached the small town of green hill. The blonde hedgehog was just outside it on the hill side. And just beyond the hills down in the valley were sonic and friends setting up a party. From the blondes view alone it proved slightly difficult to make out fully who they were given she was still to far not to mention to high up to see a clear view of their faces.

——————————————————————

The blue speedster zipped around stringing up some string lights around the trees to add more flare to their party while his two tailed brother flew up hanging a banner reading the words, “Is it a boy? Or A girl?” Across it.

“Still can’t believe this is actually happening between you two.”

The Flying vulpine mentioned his tails spinning rapidly mimicking the sound of almost a miniature helicopter flying. As he looked to his hedgehog brother who seemed quite relaxed look. His tone matching his demeanor.

“Heh, yeah..neither can I. But, technically if you hadn’t given me that nudge I needed back four years ago I don’t think we’d be throwing this kind of party for Amy and our hoglets that are on the way right now..”

Looking around as he saw no sign of the pink hedgehog in sight he tilted his head downward to look down at sonic. His tails continually whirring repeating the same flight pattern. “Speaking of..where is Amy?”

“She’s right now resting at home. I told her I would wake her when everything’s done getting set up. She’s been more exhausted lately since the triplets keep her up from all their kicking at night. She says that they keep doing. Sooo, I told her to go catch up on some rest while we finished up. “

Landing down to his feet. Tails reached over and grabbed a deflated balloon pursing his lips before starting to blow as he listened to Sonic speak. A certain thieving bat hung up side down on a large tree branch. Her legs hugging the branch. Wings closed around the woman. She had been also blowing up some balloons.

“Your awfully quiet hun. What’s up? Something on your mind?”

Rouge asked the ebony hedgehog. He had been leaning against one of the trees lost in thought for some time. As of recently he had been seemingly out of it lately. Around the same time Sonic and Amy had gotten together. At that point everyone else had either paired up with someone or were tackling other things that would follow up with future plans in mind. Now this? Time already passed enough as it was for the hedgehog. He hadn’t changed all to much. His quills longer giving off almost a rugged appearance. His chest fur appearing more fluffier then it had looked when he first awakened. But the biggest change to the hedgehog was having more if his black arms DNA make its way through his physical appearance. The hedgehog tail he once had now long with an arrow tip at the end of it.

As much as Shadow didn’t want to admit this to anyone, Rouge included. He in a way felt left out. Mostly out of choice at this point. Were there times when some got the courage to ask him out? Of course! Too many for him to count! Yet each and everyone one of them were dismissed. Not a single one given a chance no matter how much Rouge pushed him to try for a relationship with someone other than the occasional One night stands he’d have with strangers that were never seen again afterwards. Yet here he was thinking about “What ifs?” When there wasn’t a point to it. It wasn’t like another immortal hedgehog was just going to show themselves out the blue!

Flipping off the branch and landing down in front of him. The bat gave a strong flick to Shadows forehead to snap him out of his daze.

“Wake up Shadow!”

Shaking his left and right as he was brought back from his wandering mind. The ebony hedgehog scoffed as he finally made eye contact with her. His ruby colored eyes looking completely disinterested in conversation already that had hardly begun. But that didn’t extinguish the bats concerns.

“What is wrong with you lately Shadow? You’ve been seeming so out of it lately Hun…even have me worried. Can’t you just tell me what’s going on in that head of yours..?” Rouge had asked.

“It’s none of your concern Rouge. Now drop it…”

“Not until you explain what’s going on. Here we are getting a gender reveal party ready for Sonic and Amy. And you’re over here zoning out like some zombie!” Rouge gave out a defeated sigh trying a different approach instead. “Shadow, you can be so hard to read sometimes. Are you upset about the party?”

“No.”

Was all the hedgehog had answered with. His back pressed up against the tree while his batty friend Only made her self more heard by getting in his face. A low growl rumbled deep within his throat. His irritation slowly bubbling to the surface the more she continued to pry. Till finally he snapped.

“If you’re so displeased with my answer then go over there and help that red headed boyfriend of yours with decorating! I could care less about these concerns of yours as I’m perfectly fine! Just let me stay back here to think. That’s all I ask.”

His chest heaved with these words. Fist clenched tightly over his arms momentarily only to loosen their grip then afterwards. Rouge could be so persistent when she wanted to be and he wanted nothing to do with her right now but to keep to himself. Get this party over with and head home. The bat tilted her head to the side. One ear pointing up while the other matched her head tilting. And a single hand resting along her hip.

“I’m going for a walk. If they ask where I am tell them I won’t be long. I’ll be sure to get back here before Rose makes her way here.”

She hardly had gotten much said when Shadow started on his way. Getting away from the party. It wasn’t his type of setting not when he was only going to feel like a third wheel to everyone. Frankly he didn’t have time for any of that nonsense.

——————————————————————
Up on the hillside where the blonde had been. Her eyes were squinted with the side of her head against her forehead making some kind of attempt to see far away. That’s when she spotted the ebony hedgehog. With the little bits and pieces she could see of him from so far away. Something was telling her to get a closer look like a voice in her head was ushering for her to go to him. Looking around for some thing, anything! That could get her down faster from the steep hill. She noticed a massive piece of bark lying next to one of the trees beside her. Granted it was a rather silly idea but this was her more childish nature trying to come out again. Taking hold of the bark into her grasp she set it down for along the grass and sat herself on it. Already she was having second thoughts about the whole thing.

“On second thought maybe..this isn’t such a good idea..I should get off this thing before it— “

As Maria was about to get off her knee had slipped kick starting the make shift sled to move at a rapid pace. The rushing winds from the accelerating sled had her hair flying just as it had when she was running. Only this wasn’t excitement more so her nerves taking form.

“Eekkkkkkk!!!!”

Just up ahead was a tree in the center down the hill and the sled was heading right for it. Exsctly where the ebony hedgehog was about to pass. At the sound of a woman shrieking he looked over confused Only to spot the blonde heading for the tree. It was rather alarming to say the least but he had to act fast otherwise she would crash directly into it.

“CHAOS SPEAR!”

Red clashes suddenly now sliced the tree to the ground. Taking out the chaos emerald then after. He used his chaos control ability to teleport him in the nick of time to grab her just as she was about to hit the stump that was left by the tree. With the blonde hedgehog in his arms now he landed down, air shoes firing away to slow his descent. As Maria had thankfully been caught by Shadow. Her eyes had been covered by her hands. That was until she heard him speak.

“Are you alright?”

Peeking through her fingers. It was like a sudden jolt of electricity hit her. A single flash back of the ark popped in her mind. It was that same memory of her and the hedgehog that had been blacked out in her mind. Bits and pieces just now barely visible. Unlike how it once was simply silhouetted out. When she moved her hands away from her face. Shadows ruby eyes lit up. Taking in her rather familiar details. That reminded him of someone he knew so long ago. As they were in awe of the other it was as if they were in sync when they asked this question.

“..Who are you?..”