Sonic.EXE: Embers of a World Lost

by LeeTheMetalSonic

Summary:

After the defeat of Infinite and the Death Egg Robot, Eggman attempts to salvage the wreckage of his headquarters and uncovers the Phantom Ruby, intending to further research its properties to uncover a new way to get back at Sonic and his friends. However, his plan goes awry as the Ruby is revealed to have a mind of its own, unleashing an ancient evil upon Mobius not felt in a millennium.

Notes:

This is my first ever fan fiction, so don't expect it to be perfection. Although, criticism is much appreciated, as long as it is constructive and respectful. I'm excited to continue working on this story, as I have a lot of things planned for the future. Also, I will not be focusing so much on making the chapters extremely long, unless I absolutely have to.

Chapter 1: Recovery Mission

The sound of an engine roared across the remnants of the Eggman Empire HQ, the feint image of a blue blur zipping past piles of scrap towards the center of the wreckage. A few critters could be seen perking their heads up, investigating the noise only to be met with the ferocity of oncoming wind as Metal Sonic zoomed past. The feint crackling of a radio could be heard in its ear.

"I see you've arrived at your destination, and it appears that troubling rodent is nowhere in sight. Take the time to scour the wreckage and pick up anything remotely valuable."

It was Dr. Eggman, who was observing Metal Sonic through the first person on a large monitor. He was accompanied by his "apprentice", Dr. Starline.

"If I may ask, Doctor...why do you find it necessary to return to the old base? As far as I'm concerned, we have more than enough parts to rebuild the Empire from here." Starline questioned Eggman.

Eggman folded his arms, rubbing his forehead in a bit of frustration. "There's valuable research still left in the wreckage of that facility. It'd be a waste to just leave it there, especially after I had spent so much time on it."

Dr. Starline raised a brow, commenting: "If I understand correctly, all of the information should have been uploaded to the EggNet. Again, why is it so important that we return here?" He looked genuinely confused, to which Eggman frowned, batting him on the head with one of his fists. Starline winced back in pain, grabbing the top of his head and rubbing it.

"I could care less about the meaningless scribbles on those busted computers. What I'm really after are the remnants of my physical research. The Phantom Ruby prototypes were destroyed in the battle, yes, but the REAL one should be out there somewhere. I doubt that blue rodent and his companions managed to sift through all of the rubble to find it. That is why I, Doctor Ivo Robotnik, am taking it upon myself to recover such a valuable asset. Surely you of all people would understand how I operate by now, Starline." Eggman raised his fist in the air as he said the last part, like he was making a declaration of sorts. 

Starline looked at him, a tired expression plastered on his face. "I thought it out of character for you to go back on a failed plan. If I may ask...why the change of heart?" Eggman looked back up at the monitor, the image of Metal Sonic maneuvering through the rubble reflected off of his circular glasses.

"Can a man not change his mind? You think far too much of this, honestly! I am THE Doctor Ivo Robotnik, the Mad Genius of Mobius! Have a little faith in your idol, will you?" Eggman let out a hardy laugh, to which Starline gave a feint smirk.

"You never cease to surprise me, Doctor. That is the exact reason why I admire you so." 

Suddenly, their conversation was interrupted by a feint *BEEP* coming from the monitor. Both of them looked up toward the screen to find that Metal Sonic had entered the center of the wreckage, and furthermore had begun to dig beneath the layers of scrap metal. Eggman picked up the microphone he used to communicate through the radio in Metal's ear.

"Keep digging until you reach the Inner Laboratory, then begin a full-scale search of the facility. The Phantom Ruby has to be somewhere around there. It's destruction by such simple means is impossible."

Metal continued to dig through the rubble, eventually reaching an opening within the pile. After digging himself an entrance, he landed on the floor of the Inner Laboratory, immediately activating his Eye Lights, illuminating the way forward. Similar to the surface, the facility was a complete mess, visible skid marks etched into the ground from Sonic's endeavors. This garnered an expression of visible disgust from Eggman, with Starline looking back up toward him from the monitor.

"Is there any particular reason you find interest in the Phantom Ruby once more? From what I saw regarding your previous research, you had pretty much uncovered all that there was to know on the artifact? What more could you possibly want with a toy you've already used?"

Eggman took his attention away from the monitor, looking down at the control panel below it, tapping one of his fingers. "A part of me believes that I was much too cautious with my estimates of the Phantom Ruby's capabilities. I focused more on the idea of physical constructs and failed to explore the possible biological effects the Ruby could possess."

Starline tilted his head, raising a brow. 

"Oh, please, surely even you can see the implications here! It's fueled by a person's WILLPOWER, their DETERMINATION and DRIVE to persist. All of those, whether one likes it or not, have something to do with biological processes, such as the mechanisms of certain sections of the brain. One could chalk it all up to some magical force, but I, alas, am a man of SCIENCE! I believe there is more to it than that!" The Doctor responded to Starline's look of confusion, once again raising his fist in the air. The sound of Metal Sonic navigating the facility could still be heard in the background, his footsteps echoing throughout the room.

"In any case...it's a theory I would like to test. If I can't find anything else out of the damned thing, I'll just throw it away after I'm done."

As the Doctor said this, another *BEEP* could be heard from the monitor. Looking back up, both Eggman and Starline saw that Metal had arrived at the containment site for the prototype Phantom Rubies. In front of him stood a large steel door, safe-guarded by numerous locks and bolts, all requiring a passcode to enter. Eggman picked up the microphone once more.

"Yes, there it is. Get in there and recover the Ruby if you can. Afterwards, begin to make your way back to base, Metal."

Metal nodded, slowly reeling his arm back and sending it forward into the steel door. His claw pierced the metal locks, gripping onto them as they were now slowly being pulled apart. After a bit of struggle, the entire door was ripped off the wall, tossed to the ground like some kind of paper weight. Starline couldn't help but widen his eyes at this display of incredible strength. After ripping the door open, Metal stepped into the room, a lone glass container located at its center. Within this container, the feint glow of red could be seen piercing through the room's built-up dust. Walking toward this light, Metal stopped dead in his tracks, face to face with the Phantom Ruby.

"It appears my predictions were correct. Those lousy rodents couldn't bother to initiate a full search of the facility. Alas, my intellect never fails me." The Doctor looked up in confidence, gripping the microphone and pulling it closer to his lips.

"Now reel it in, boy. We have quite a lot of work ahead of us." The doctor said, a toothy grin plastered along his face.

Chapter 2: Experimentation and Documentation PT. 1

Summary:

Eggman and Starline try to uncover the mystery surrounding the Phantom Ruby, documenting their results in several audio and video logs. However, something appears to be...off.

---

Type: Video Log

Date of Publication: ???/???/???

Documentation: Phantom Ruby Trial 1: Energy Capabilities, Doctor Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik

[ALL FOOTAGE/AUDIO PRETAINS TO TOP SECRET RESEARCH AND THUS SHALL NOT BE DISTRIBUTED PUBLICALLY]

...

...

...

Video Start

Someone can be heard scrambling in the background before the lens cap of the camera is removed.

Orbot: "We're live, Doctor! The documentation process has begun."

Eggman: "Ah, excellent work."

Eggman takes a moment to cough, clearing his throat before speaking.

Eggman: "This will be "Trial 1" of my experiments regarding the Phantom Ruby. Right now, I wish to understand it's power output and ability to draw energy from other living things. More specifically, we are here to explore the concept of WILLPOWER."

Eggman moves a bit, unveiling the Phantom Ruby safely stored in a containment chamber.

Eggman: "During my previous experiments before my bout with that blue rodent, I managed to harness the Ruby's power to create constructs based on the imagination of its user. In order to create these constructs, the user had to have...what's the right word...great mental fortitude, yes. The user had to have a great mental fortitude in order to activate the Ruby's powers."

Eggman moved his right hand upwards, pointing a finger to the ceiling, signifying a revelation.

Eggman: "This is the aforementioned WILLPOWER. The ability to keep calm in situations of great stress...the ability to mold one's mind under any circumstances, even those that put the user's life at risk. Anything lower than this threshold was considered useless in my prior research, for it did not produce the desired results. While the Ruby's power was able to be harnessed by anyone, the quality of said power was usually inconsistent when paired with normal subjects. That is why I had Infinite wield my final prototype...he had the necessary WILLPOWER to conquer and control the Ruby."

Eggman: "HOWEVER! In my search for greater power to conquer the blue rodent and his insufferable friends, I failed to realize the true extent of the Ruby's capabilities in the hands of the "not-so-gifted". As I was thinking about it, I realized that...perhaps there was more to this WILLPOWER than I had thought. And that REALLY got me thinking. CUBOT!"

Eggman turned toward the containment cell holding the Phantom Ruby. Cubot was by the door, escorting what looked to be a small critter, one that was used to power Eggman's Batniks. Cubot placed the critter into the cell, before shutting the door and sealing it. He gave Eggman a slight wave of the hand when the job was done, scurrying off back into the background.

Eggman: "The Law of Conservation of Energy states that energy cannot be created nor destroyed...so how exactly was the Ruby able to produce such power out of thin air? This question kept bugging me day in and day out. Although, I think I might have finally figured out the reason behind it."

The critter could be seen inspecting its surroundings, taking notice of the Phantom Ruby fairly quickly. Its light shone bright, illuminating the entire chamber in a glow of beautiful crimson. As if drawn in by this unrelenting glow, the critter slowly moved toward the Phantom Ruby with a rather hasty demeaner. It sniffed and scratched around the area, inching ever so close toward the Ruby. Eggman could be seen watching from the outside in anticipation, holding his hand up toward the camera.

Eggman: "Orbot, keep it steady. I want this part specifically to be clearly visible."

Orbot: "As always, Boss."

The critter came closer...and closer...and closer, until it found itself face to face with the Ruby. It scratched around one final time, before putting the tip of its nose against the surface of the gem. In the blink of an eye, some kind of pink energy began to seep its way out of the ruby, surrounding the critter, as if cradling it, pulling it ever closer. The critter's eyes widened, before it began to shrink. It looked as if the creature was being drained of all its blood, bones beginning to peer through the skin which wrapped around like a thin layer of rubber, until all that was left was an empty husk. The critter had died on the spot, with the Ruby ceasing its constant glow and slowly going dark.

Eggman: "And there you have it folks! Marvelous, is it not? In the blink of an eye, the Ruby has drained this lifeform of all its energy and strength, leaving it as nothing but a corpse!"

Eggman swirled toward the camera, giving a wild gesture as if presenting something incredible for the first time.

Eggman: "This is the crucial piece of my research that I was missing! This WILLPOWER that seemed to control the Phantom Ruby...was really something keeping it at bay! The Ruby takes its energy from a host, converting it into raw power that can be constructed into nearly anything! The stronger your WILLPOWER...the more you can control what is taken...and the more you can utilize even the tiniest bits of energy!"

Eggman pushed up his circular glasses, grinning from ear to ear. Cubot could be seen in the background...visibly concerned.

Eggman: "Now all that's left for me to do is learn the limits and capabilities of this energy absorption. Maybe then...I can finally get rid of the blue thorn in my side."

Eggman then straightened up his posture.

Eggman: "Alright, now cut the feed! I must get back on this!"

Orbot jumped a bit, the camera following suit.

Orbot: "R-right away, Boss!"

Right before the camera feed cut, the critter's corpse could be seen giving off a slight twitch in the background.

Video End

---

Type: Audio Log

Date of Publication: ???/???/???

Documentation: Progress Report, Doctor Starline

[ALL FOOTAGE/AUDIO PRETAINS TO TOP SECRET RESEARCH AND THUS SHALL NOT BE DISTRIBUTED PUBLICALLY]

...

...

...

Audio Start

The scuffling of a microphone can be heard, before someone clears their throat.

Starline: "This is Doctor Starline updating the logs regarding the Phantom Ruby Trials. As of right now, we've just completed the fifth trial involving living organisms."

Starline: "Results have been relatively the same. The subject gets curious, seems to be drawn to the Ruby out of sheer curiosity, and is then sapped of all their energy on the spot."

A loud swallow could be heard. It sounded like he was nervous about something.

Starline: "The subjects were presumed dead upon contact...and their vitals perfectly matched said analysis. However, further observations uncovered something...bizarre. Despite being confirmed dead beforehand, the corpses of the test subjects appear to have involuntary twitches and spasms. At first, we assumed it was just the nerves making muscles contract, typical of something that had just died. Although, after a while, it became more than just simple movement."

Another swallow...it almost seemed like he was panicked.

Starline: "Brain activity...there was actual brain activity after several hours of being dead. Eventually, the subjects would begin to move around more frequently...until they would be standing up like nothing had happened, still drained of everything they had. I-its...unnatural, to say the least. The Doctor and I assume it has something to do with their WILLPOWER. Not so much mental fortitude...but more the part of the brain that controls such things.

Starline:  "We don't know how...but the Ruby seems to spark something within the subject's Limbic System, seeing as that's where most of the activity comes from. They wander around aimlessly, sometimes just...banging their heads against the glass. It's nothing serious as of right now, but the development is certainly concerning."

Starline sighed.

Starline: "At least...it's concerning me. The Doctor seems completely unphased by all of this. In fact, he's considering expanding our trials to more than just common forest critters. I've tried to tell him that we should delay our progression and figure out what all of this means...but he refuses to listen to me."

Another sigh, followed by a long pause.

Starline: "Maybe I just don't see what he sees...perhaps I'm worrying far too much. He IS one of, if not the greatest scientific minds of our time. Perhaps the problem is my lack of faith."

Starline: "Well, whatever it is, all we can do is wait and observe. Until next time, Doctor Starline signing off."

Audio End

---

Type: Video Log

Date of Publication: ???/???/???

Documentation: Phantom Ruby Trial 10: Effects on Higher Lifeforms, Doctor Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik & Doctor Starline

[ALL FOOTAGE/AUDIO PRETAINS TO TOP SECRET RESEARCH AND THUS SHALL NOT BE DISTRIBUTED PUBLICALLY]

...

...

...

Video Start

The camera shakes a bit as it is being set up, pointing toward another containment cell, much larger than the previous. This time, a random Mobian citizen can be seen within the cell, shaking out of pure terror.

Eggman: "Alright, all we ask you to do is to step a bit closer to the Ruby."

The citizen slowly turned his head toward the Phantom Ruby, his pupils shrinking. He made a visible gulp, before taking small steps toward the gem.

Citizen (Muffled): "P-please don't make me do this...I have a family to get back to."

Starline: "And they would be more than happy to know that you're contributing greatly to the field of science. Now, keep walking toward the Ruby."

Citizen (Muffled): "B-But...it's creeping me the h-hell out."

Audible anger from Eggman, who is off-screen along with Starline.

Eggman: "So what...are you going to piss yourself? Keep moving or that thing won't be the only one of your concerns!"

The citizen jumped a bit at the Doctor's tone of voice, now starting to move once more. 

Citizen (Muffled): "N-No...please...surely YOU understand."

Starline: "What was that?"

Citizen (Muffled): "But why...w-why do you have to do this?"

Eggman: "The bastards really lost it...it almost seems like he's talking to himself."

The citizen moved forward a bit more before coming to a halt, only a couple of inches away from the Ruby.

Citizen (Muffled): "I...don't want to continue! Please, just let me out of here!"

Their breathing became uneasy. They started to shake uncontrollably.

Eggman: "Oh for Gaia's sake...WHAT'S THE HOLD UP?!"

Citizen (Muffled): "Y-You can't make me! I don't want to go! I don't want to go with you! Please don't make me go!"

It almost looked as if they were convulsing. The camera shook a bit before Doctor Starline came into frame, an expression of shock plastered on his face.

Starline: "What the hell is going on in there?!"

The citizen's neck began to twitch ever so slightly, before it started to turn in one direction. It kept turning.

Eggman: "Hey, stop that...stop that right now, you damn fool!"

It continued to turn, now twisting...until eventually...

CRACK.

Video  End

---

 

Notes:

It grows stronger. Who knows what will happen now that it's been tampered with. (oooo spooky and ominous oooo)

Chapter 3: Experimentation and Documentation PT.2

Summary:

Eggman and Starline try to uncover the mystery surrounding the Phantom Ruby, documenting their results in several audio and video logs. However, something appears to be...off.

Notes:

Longer chapter than usual. I wanted to include a lot of detail in this one in order to fully describe what I'm going for. I'm super excited to continue writing this story! (FYI, I also might not be uploading as much because I am at college, though it's the weekend so I'll try getting stuff done!) Agin, criticism is always welcome as long as its constructive and respectful!

---

Type: Video Log

Date of Publication: ???/???/???

Documentation: Phantom Ruby Trial 11: Effects on Higher Lifeforms PT. 2, Doctor Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik & Doctor Starline

[ALL FOOTAGE/AUDIO PRETAINS TO TOP SECRET RESEARCH AND THUS SHALL NOT BE DISTRIBUTED PUBLICALLY]

...

...

...

Video Start

The camera is turned on, as it begins to film another containment cell. This time, a fresh new face is trapped within its confines, along with the Phantom Ruby. As per usual, the Ruby can be seen emitting a bright red glow. 

Eggman: "Seeing as our last Experiment went...off script, we're doing another! Would you mind stating your name for the camera, my dear sir?"

The citizen with the cell could be seen shaking. Just like the last subject, they were scared shitless. There was no answer to Eggman's question.

Eggman: "Not the talkative type, are we? Well, keep your secrets then. It's not like you're walking out of this place anyway."

Another person could be heard behind the camera.

Starline: "Don't bother, Doctor, these people are never in the right state of mind. *AHEM*, Sir! Could you please make your way toward the gemstone right in front of you."

The citizen looked toward the Phantom Ruby, looking back at the two Doctors.

Citizen (Muffled): "I don't want to go through with this. Please...just let me go. I won't tell anyone about you, I swear. Just please...don't make me go there."

Audibles sighs from both the Doctors could be heard.

Eggman: "You are in no position to ask demands of us, rodent. Now, walk toward the gemstone, or we'll just have to shoot you on sight!"

The citizen jumped at this statement, gulping. Reluctantly, they turned to face the Ruby, slowly walking toward it. As if reacting to their movement, the Ruby began to glow just a bit brighter.

Eggman: "That's it, atta boy! Just keep walking toward it until you're in range of contact."

Behind the camera, the feint clacking of keys on a keyboard could be heard.

Starline: "Everything seems normal so far, Doctor. There are no alterations within the Ruby's energy output."

The citizen continued their approach toward the Ruby. As they got closer and closer, the Ruby grew ever so bright.

Eggman: "Is it just me, or is the damned thing getting brighter? Gah! It's starting to hurt my eyes just looking at it! Starline, what are the readings saying now?"

Starline: "It's...still normal, Doctor. Nothing has changed from my last report, and I haven't taken my eyes off the monitor for even a second."

Suddenly, the citizen stopped dead in their tracks.

Citizen (Muffled): ---

Eggman moves a bit in front of the camera, his hand somewhat covering his eyes.

Eggman: "What is it this time? You're going to have to speak up!"

Citizen (Muffled): "Do you hear that ringing?"

Starline: "Ringing?"

Citizen (Muffled): "Loud, obnoxious ringing, all throughout this room. I don't know how else to describe it."

The citizen took a step closer towards the Ruby.

Citizen (Muffled): "There...it's coming from the gemstone."

All of a sudden, a loud beeping could be heard in the background. Someone scrambled, before the clacking of a keyboard becomes apparent.

Starline: "Doctor! The energy readings, they're showing signs of change!"

The beeping continued, as Eggman ran off camera towards the back.

Eggman: "Let me see the screen!"

The citizen remained at the same position, taking at gander toward the gemstone. For a moment...it seemed as if their eyes held a bit of a glimmer.

Citizen (Muffled): "You want me to what? Why would I dare do something like that?"

The beeping in the background grew louder. The Doctors could be heard scrambling around, trying to figure out how this was happening.

Citizen (Muffled): "Closer, you say? I...I don't think I really want to."

The beeping grew louder.

Citizen (Muffled): "O-Okay, fine! Just...please, no more!"

The citizen stepped closer toward the Ruby.

The citizen grabbed the Ruby.

The citizen held the Ruby.

The beeping stopped. The Ruby's glow began to fade. The scrambling in the background had also stopped.

Eggman: "Eh? Hey! When did I say you could touch it?!"

The citizen did not respond. Eggman came back into frame, clearly angered.

Eggman: "Are you deaf, rodent?! Drop the Ruby before I come in there and do something about it!"

The citizen began to walk toward the glass of the containment cell, Ruby still in hand.

Eggman: "I'm giving you to the count of three!"

The citizen stopped.

Eggman: "One."

The citizen raised the Ruby above their head.

Eggman: "Two."

The citizen's WILLPOWER was test-

BANG.

The citizen's lifeless body dropped onto the floor, a visible bullet hole in their head.

Eggman: "Three."

Someone scrambled behind the camera, before Starline came into frame.

Starline: "I'll...get Orbot and Cubot to drag the body out."

Eggman: "Tch...so much for the trial."

Eggman turned toward the camera, fumbling around with the buttons for a second.

Video End

---

Type: Audio Log

Date of Publication: ???/???/???

Documentation: Progress Report, Doctor Starline

[ALL FOOTAGE/AUDIO PRETAINS TO TOP SECRET RESEARCH AND THUS SHALL NOT BE DISTRIBUTED PUBLICALLY]

...

...

...

Audio Start

Someone is heard situating themselves into a chair, before the feint tapping of a foot starts up. 

Starline: "This is Doctor Starline...I believe we may have made a mistake."

The muffled sound of hands clasping together could be heard.

Starline: "Coming into these tests, I had only believed that direct contact with the Phantom Ruby was the only way for it to influence someone in any shape or form. However, as we started to perform tests on more common citizens, all of them have had similar outbursts of what can only be described as insanity."

Starline: The moment the subject takes a few steps toward the Ruby, they always start to mumble to themselves. It's incoherent most of the time, but when I am able to understand what they are saying, it almost seems like they're...talking to someone. As if they're having full-on conversations within their head, the subject starts to ramble on and on about the most bizarre topics.

Starline: Some seem to be quite happy, while others can be heard screaming, begging for mercy. 

Starline: I had thought it might be a side-effect of extreme fear, but the consistent nature of the matter quickly turned me away from that hypothesis. It was just too much of a coincidence that all of these randomly-selected people were having the same reactions to the experiment.

An audible gulp, followed by the adjusting of their seating could be heard.

Starline: I then started thinking about...another outcome. Perhaps talking to oneself wasn't a side-effect of delirium, but rather a sign that there was something else going on with the Phantom Ruby. I'm starting to believe that the damned thing could be ALIVE, at least to some extent. 

Starline: "This wouldn't be the first time something of the sort had been discovered. The Master Emerald, as far as I know, possessed similar properties. This is where the being known as Chaos originated from. However, in his case, there were no prior signs of life. The Doctor had to pry him out of the thing before he started to take his own actions. 

Starline sighed.

Starline: "But in this case...it seems WHATEVER is inside of the Ruby is already active. It's communicating with the test subjects...perhaps making them do things they wouldn't normally do.

Starline: "This theory could also explain the later 'resurrection' of each subject. I had mentioned this before when it came down to the common critters we had experimented on in the past. It seems the Ruby is also affecting higher lifeforms...and it appears that it can give them some kind of direction as well. Every single subject we've tested on so far do the same, basic actions once 'resurrected'. They wander around their cells, occasionally banging their heads on the glass. I don't know why that is, however."

Starline: Either way, I'll try to keep the situation updated as much as I can. Until the next time, Doctor Starline signing off.

Feint scuffling could be heard, before a *CLICK*.

Audio End

---

Audio End

Type: Video Log

Date of Publication: ???/???/???

Documentation: Phantom Ruby Trial ???: Common Side Effects

[ALL FOOTAGE/AUDIO PRETAINS TO TOP SECRET RESEARCH AND THUS SHALL NOT BE DISTRIBUTED PUBLICALLY]

...

...

...

Video Start

The camera was facing one of the containment cells which held an "Experiment". They had several cuts and bruises across their body, along with several inflamed areas. The "Experiment", by this point, had been long dead, although it was standing upright, constantly tapping its head against the glass. The eyes were devoid of all color, slightly rolled back into the socket.

Other similar scenarios could be heard in the background. It seemed that this was the room where all of the Experiments were kept.

Someone could be heard moving behind the camera, adjusting it slightly to give a shot of the entire room. There were numerous containment cells, all holding different Experiments performing the same tedious actions over and over again. As if rehearsed prior, every single Experiment was tapping their head against the glass at the same time.

The sound rang across the room, booming every few seconds as new taps had occurred. Not one of the Experiments missed a beat.

The camera came closer to one of the cells, zooming in on an Experiment's face. They looked skinny, deprived of muscle mass and stripped down to the look of a deflated balloon. Their mouth was gaping open, as it appeared that almost all of their teeth were rotting away. They shook loosely after every bang on the glass. 

The camera panned down to their hands. The nails, surprisingly, were kept intact and had even grown a staggering amount. They were naturally sharp.

The camera panned down to their feet. Once again, the nails were intact, long and sharp. Their toes were twisted in all sorts of directions. 

Then, all of a sudden, the banging within the room had stopped. The camera reacting by suddenly lifting upwards toward the face of the Experiment it was examining.

Its mouth began to open wider, the jaw stretching far past its normal limits.

All of a sudden...it began to scream.

They ALL began to scream.

The room was filled with a deafening sound.

The sound of agony.

The sound of sorrow.

The sound of WILLPOWER.

The camera, or rather the person behind the camera, ran straight out of the room, the door shutting behind them. The screams of the Experiments could still be heard echoing into the facility.

Video End

---

 

Notes:

Consider this chapter to be the calm before the storm. The next chapter will be the 'breaking point', if I could call it that. In other words, shit is about to hit the fan.

Chapter 4: Questions and Answers

Summary:

You ask the questions, I'll give the answers!

Chapter 4 is probably going to come out today or tomorrow, but I wanted to see if anyone had any questions regarding the story so far. If so, you can leave them in the comments, and I'll reply. I want to make sure the lore is as clear and concise as possible going forward. However, I'm not going to give away spoilers.

Chapter 5: Breach PT.1

Summary:

Everything goes wrong and everything is not fine.

Notes:

Yeah so apparently Starline was right all along and all of this experimentation really wasn't a good idea. WHOOPS!

Standing in front of an array of different screens, Eggman ponders the footage laid out before him. The "Experiments" had shown no change in quite some time, repeating the same simple actions over and over again. The sound of their heads banging against the glass of each containment cell echoed throughout the room. Eggman placed both his hands down on the control panel situated just under these screens, his hands slightly scrunching up.

Doctor Starline entered the room through its automatic steel door, papers in hand. His face holding a mixed expression of concern and stress. "How goes the lookout, Doctor?" Starline pronounced, to which Eggman did not respond. Starline smiled nervously, stopping his approach at the control panel, dropping the papers on its surface. "Well...I've printed out some reports regarding our findings for the Phantom Ruby Trials. I even summarized all of them for you, seeing as you've always hated reading through my...'chicken scratch'..." Starline exclaimed, sighing at the end. Eggman slightly turned his head toward the dropped papers, picking up the page on top of the stack. On it were numerous energy graphs pertaining to the Phantom Ruby. They were all pointing upwards.

Starline noticed this, commenting: "Ah! Those...those are some readings I decided to take after we began testing on higher lifeforms. I know you said they weren't completely necessary...but I assure you they were no trouble at-"

TEAR.

Starline watched as Eggman began to rip apart the piece of paper, throwing its remnants on the ground. Starline stood there, somewhat expecting this to happen. The look on his face was more one of disappointment rather than shock.

Eggman turned his head down toward Starline, clearly upset. "We are not here to support your childish theories, Starline! How many times have I told you to STOP looking into such rubbish!" the Doctor exclaimed, slamming his hand onto the control panel. Starline flinched a bit at this sudden show of aggression but stepped forward in an act of resilience. "This is serious, Doctor! Don't you understand the implications of these test results! Something is and has been happening with that Ruby!"

"You're overreacting, you blasted fool! I've told you numerous times that what you're proposing is preposterous! Those rodents died as a result of the Ruby's overwhelming authority and strength! It has nothing to do with what you're implying!" Eggman shouted, waving his arms around in the air as he made his statement. Starline reared his head back a bit in disgust at the Doctor's blatant naivety. "You of ALL people should know damn well how these types of constructs work! The Master Emerald operated on the same caliber! You faced its consequences FIRSTHAND, yet you still deny everything laid out right in front of you?!"

"If the Ruby of all things was alive, I would have spotted it during my initial tests! What do you take me for, some kind of fool?! Do you think of me as one of those common pests?! I am the great Doctor Ivo Robotnik! I am not someone to make such COMICAL ERRORS!" Eggman's temper had flared up, spit flying from his open mouth as he screamed at the top of his lungs. 

Starline grew increasingly impatient with every word spewed from the Doctor's mouth, rubbing his forehead with his hand in an act to relieve stress. "We...YOU had never tested the Ruby on THIS scale before. Your initial experiments, as thorough as they were, FAILED to delve deeper into this concept of WILLPOWER. Infinite could not guide you to these necessary results because he wasn't WEAK ENOUGH. With all due respect, Doctor...you were LAZY in your search for subjects." Starline instantly covered his mouth as the words spilled out. 

Although Eggman's eyes were covered by his glasses, Starline could immediately tell they were practically bulging out of their sockets. 

Starline tried to course correct, waving his hands in the air. "I may have worded that incorrectly...you know I didn't mean it li-"

All of a sudden, the blare of an alarm rang through the room, as well as the rest of the facility.

Both Doctors swerved around to look at the monitors, realizing that the glass panels of each containment cell had been broken. The Experiments in each cell peered their heads through the broken glass, looking around the room before slowly stepping out into the greater facility. Starline, immediately after seeing this, scrambled to the control panel, grabbing a microphone and pressing a big red button beside it, turning on the main loudspeakers. "Containment breach in Sector 6! I repeat, containment breach in Sector 6!" Eggman, meanwhile, ran to the back of the room, scrambling to find something lodged within a crate designated "Weaponry". After a few seconds, he poked his head out, reeling back to reveal a small handgun, branded with the "Eggman Empire" symbol. He quickly cocked it back, placing two pellets into the ammunition slot before fully loading the weapon. Starline turned toward the Doctor, slamming the microphone down onto the control panel.

"We have to stay exactly where we are, Doctor. Even with the forces we have on hand, we can't risk losing ourselves with those monsters roaming about!" Starline exclaimed, only to the Doctor's dismay. Eggman simply scoffed, turning his head slightly, giving a mean glare at Starline. "What do you take me for...some mindless ape? This is simply for my personal protection." Eggman responded, raising the gun up in display. "Ah...yes, of course Doctor" Starline exhaled, "You...wouldn't happen to have any extras, would you?" Eggman scoffed, simply turning toward the control panel and walking past Starline, who was looking utterly defeated. The Doctor, after reaching the control panel, now placing both hands upon the keyboard, beginning to type away as he observed every single monitor, switching between the many cameras placed around the facility. 

"It's not as if we need to take even a step out of this room. There are plenty of obstacles standing in the way of those things out there." Eggman exclaimed, ending his rampant typing with the final click of a key. 

The roar of an engine echoed throughout the facility.

Meanwhile, the Experiments lunged upon the active forces sent to hunt them down. Every Batnik, big or small, was torn to shreds. Despite their rough shape, the corpses had seemed to be given some kind of physical boost. Their nails were able to tear through solid steel as if it was butter, and their jaws clamped down like a hydraulic press, ripping off entire pieces of metal plating from the robots. As they advanced throughout the facility, all that was left in their wake were piles of scrap metal. Visible scratch and bite marks were scattered along the walls.

One of the Experiments ran ahead of the rest, turning a corner and stopping before a large door covered in many security locks. A feint red glow peeked through the bottom of the door, flashing on and off. The Experiment tilted its head down, its eyes reflecting the light as if it was mesmerized by its beauty. It turned its attention back to the door, now ramming its entire body weight into the cold hard steel, bouncing backwards as the sound of the blow created an echo. The Experiment shook its head, clearly rattled by the blunt force of its action. However, its fixation on the door did not waver. It raised both its hands toward the door, now beginning to relentlessly attack it with all its might. The locks keeping the door in place were torn to shreds, along with the surface of the door itself. Soon enough, the Experiment had managed to dig itself a small entrance through the solid steel, and through this hole, the red light continued to pulsate even brighter. As The Experiment returned its attention to this light, it gained a clear image of its culprit...

The Phantom Ruby.

Notes:

Decided to split this into two parts, mainly because it will allow me to plan the next few events a lot better. I have some REALLY cool things planned for this section of the story (BIG lore drop, some stuff with Metal Sonic, etc.). The second part will most likely come out within a day, though, so don't worry too much! In the meantime, hope this chapter delivers!

Chapter 6: Breach Pt.2

Summary:

Someone...or rather, SOMETHING, has awoken.

Metal Sonic soared through what remained of the facility, passing through the carnage left by the Experiments. Piles of what was now scrap metal lay dormant across the floors, as if a bomb had gone off and taken all signs of "life" with it. Everything was in shambles...nothing left to salvage. However, none of that seemed to concern Metal, his expression never changing. The slight buzz of a radio could then be heard ringing in one of his ears, causing a sudden halt in his advance. Metal took a moment to listen in.

"Metal! Begin making your way to the Phantom Ruby containment cell! Those rodents are making their way over to snatch my precious cargo!" Yelled Eggman from the other line. Metal slightly nodded, giving a low *BEEP* in response before activating his back engine once more, speeding off into the greater facility. Making his way toward the containment cell, the piles of scrap metal grew larger and larger, stacked up like bodies on a mound. The Experiments were clearly getting more aggressive, which was also a telltale sign that the cell was within reach. As Metal rounded a final corner, he had finally caught a glance at one of the Experiments, immediately stepping up the output of his engine. In the blink of an eye, the bot had SLAMMED his entire body weight into the thing, causing it to be torn asunder as the overwhelming force collided with its fragile body. Blood splattered all over Metals visor as he began to skid along the ground, sparks flying across the surrounding area in a small lightshow, stopping as the bot regained his footing once more, now face to face with the rest of the Experiments.

All of them tilted their heads toward him, their neckbones creaking and cracking with the sudden motion. Metal gave them a cold glare, the red tint of his eyes shooting through the blood covering his visor, like the headlights of a car facing a herd of deer. Raising one of his arms, he brandished a set of steel claws, the light from his eyes reflecting off of their tips to form a powerful glint. 

It was his form of a declaration.

The Experiments, in reaction to this sudden movement of the hand, all would bare their teeth and claws at the robot, lunging forth in a flurry of rage. Metal tilted his body forward, planting his feet on the ground before lunging toward the onslaught of combatants. As one of the Experiments attempted to claw at his fact, he swiftly tilted his body back, letting the swipe pass above before breaching his own claw into the torso of the Experiment. In one swift motion, Metal then swiped his claw to the side, separating the torso from the legs in an instant. At the same time, another Experiment attempted to swipe at his head, to which he responded by swiftly grabbing its wrist, snapping the hand clean off before shoving it into the Experiment's head.

From this connection point, Metal began to swing the Experiment's body around at the others, causing them to break apart in a brutal display of ferocity. The body he swung broke apart more and more, until all that was left was the head, which he promptly shook off his hand.

Meanwhile, both Eggman and Starline were watching the fight unfold through Metal's POV, the numerous computer screens in the room they were in showing multiple different angles. Starline was left in utter disbelief at the bloodshed caused by the robot, while Eggman stood there, fully aware of the damage his own creation could cause. He smirked, letting out a soft chuckle as he now picked up the microphone located on the computer control panel. "Excellent work, my boy! That's exactly what the doctor ordered! Now breach the vault and get the Phantom Ruby home to Papa! We'll need it for the re-location process." Eggman said, at the same time noting the catastrophic damage done to his base by the Experiments.

Behind Eggman stood Starline, holding his beak while looking panicked. "To think such destruction was caused by mere re-animated corpses...what kind of influence did the Ruby have over these...things?" He muttered, a drop of sweat falling to the floor. Eggman turned his head slightly toward Starline, tilting it off to the side before waving a hand. "They were probably fueled with the excess energy of the Phantom Ruby, nothing truly alarming. Besides, now that the Ruby is back in my possession, we can bury this disaster under the rubble as if nothing ever happened." Eggman slightly clenched his fist as he said this. "That always seems to be the case, anyway."

Turning his head back to the screens, Eggman suddenly froze in his tracks. Starline took note of this, a confused expression now plastered on his face. "So... let's just get the Ruby and go. Why are you just standing there, Doctor?" Starline followed Eggman's gaze upward toward the screen, suddenly freezing himself. Through Metal's POV, their eyes locked on to the sight of the containment cell door ripped open, revealing a lone Experiment standing face to face with the Ruby clutched in its arms. It swiftly turned its head, the Ruby's red glow still reflecting off its eyes. Eggman quickly grasped the microphone tightly, bringing it to the base of his lips before shouting: "GET THAT THING AWAY FROM THE RUBY! NOW, METAL!" The robot swiftly tilted forward, pouring all of its energy into the back engine before BEAMING toward the Experiment. The Experiment began to move its arms, lifting the Ruby slightly upwards toward its head, before aligning it with the chest area. In one swift motion, it then began to plunge the Ruby straight into its heart. Metal, at the same time, outstretched his claw toward the Experiment, attempting to snag the Ruby before anything could be done.

BOOM.

As the Ruby was plunged into the Experiments heart, the whole area erupted in a massive surge of energy, sending Metal flying backwards into the wall, creating a dent on its surface. The resulting surge of energy also damaged the cameras within Metal's visor, leaving Eggman and Starline in the dark. Both doctors could only gaze in horror as all of the screens they were watched went to static. Eggman slammed the control panel, gripping the gun he had grabbed earlier before beginning to make his way out of the room, much to Starline's dismay. 

"Sir, SIR! You can't go out there now! Who knows what's going on or if the Ruby is even stable at this time!" Starline tried pushing back at Eggman, who kept advancing toward the door. He looked down upon Starline, before shoving him out of the way. "That piece of FILTH thinks he can lay a hand on MY treasure, take apart MY hard work?!" Eggman continued to shout, still approaching the door with every intent to face the Experiment himself. However, at the very last second, both of his arms were grabbed and held by Orbot and Cubot, bringing him down to his knees.

"W-Hey! What's the meaning of this?!" Eggman yelled, trying to break free from their grasp. Both robots held on firmly, trying to get the Doctor to calm down. "Don't be so rash, Doctor! Maybe it's best we all just stay put and let Big Bro handle all of this!" Orbot affirmed, Cubot nodding his head up and down in agreement. Eggman's gun fell to the floor, producing a loud *CLINK* as it landed.

Back at the containment cell, Metal lay stuck within the wall dent, tilting his head upwards in order to see what had happened. Standing before him was the Experiment, the Ruby now lodged deep within its chest, pulsating a now violet glow. It's body, once devoid of any musculature or form, now seemingly filled to the brim with life and energy. Although, it still looked as if something was wrong. Numerous bones stuck out of its back, protruding past the skin and into the open air. Its veins bulged far into the skin, forming make-shift markings along both arms like some kind of demon. Through the veins, the same violet-colored energy could be seen pulsating, RADIATING throughout the body. A grotesque, yet beautiful sight.

The Experiment...no, Entity, turned its head toward Metal, its eyes having some resemblance of pupils, though foggy and misshapen. A bit lower was its mouth, tearing through the skin and brimming with sharp teeth. It opened wide, revealing a long tongue that licked each row of teeth, slithering around like a snake.

Then, the Entity began to utter its first words.

"How marvelous is the feeling to bask in the sensation of flesh once more. I had longed for the day when I could finally exit that wretched prison and escape into a world unknown and new." It spoke perfectly, sending echoes throughout the containment cell and the facility beyond. Even Metal, a robot who was supposed to be devoid of feeling and emotion, could sense the chill of its words. He began to swiftly dig himself out of the indentation on the wall, getting back on his feet.

"Though, I must say...the host is far from ideal. There is not the slightest bit of drive within this pathetic morsel." The Entity continued to speak, looking down upon its new form in disappointment. "This won't do; I must find someone mo-"

BANG

Just then, Metal charged toward the Entity at full force, slamming his claw straight into an energy field conjured up last second. The Entity now turned his attention toward the robot.

"And what exactly are you supposed to be? Some kind of toy? I have no time to play games with you, if that's what you're after."

The barrier began to crack. The Entity looked a little surprised.

"What is this now?"

Metal began to apply more power to his back engine, pushing closer and closer toward the Entity, indenting the barrier. The force of his approach formed more cracks along its surface, causing the Entity to step back a bit. The engine hissed and roared, flames spewing out in a stream of light and combustion. Metal's claws began to now sink into the barrier, piercing through like a needle touching skin. Suddenly, the barrier then closed in upon Metal's arm, swallowing it whole as to hold the part in place. Following this, the Entity moved beyond Metal's position, leaping toward the exit of the containment cell with great speed. It was trying to escape.

"I have no time for this struggle. The outside world calls to me more than your pathetic attempts." The Entity called out, rushing past the door and corrading down the hallway at top speeds. Metal swiftly turned his body, rushing to follow the Entity, consequently ripping his own arm off in exchange for movement. He began to speed off in hot pursuit, not letting up in the slightest. Taking note of Metal's given chase, the Entity began to take apart the walls of the facility using pure energy from its fingertips, chucking hunks of steel at the robot in an attempt to slow him down. However, Metal simply smacked these away like paperweights, intent on catching up to his target. 

The Entity looked rather impressed. Despite only having one arm, the robot continued its directive as if nothing happened. An admirable trait for sure, but not enough in the grand scheme of things. With one more wave of his hand, the Entity sent yet another wave of steel plating and scrap toward Metal, who attempted to bat it all away like usual. However, this time, the pieces of steel now began to bend and contort, wrapping themselves around Metal's body like a vest, causing his movement to suddenly halt as he slammed onto the floor, sparks flying as he skids along. This gave the Entity the moments it needed to make a swift getaway, leaping through the doors of the facility and clawing its way to the outside, leaving everything else behind including Metal, who lay still face-planted on the ground. 

The objective had been failed. 

A little while later, Eggman could be seen rummaging through the damage left behind, coming across Metal, who still lay on the ground motionless. He kneeled down, turning the robot over to find that he was still online, his eyes glaring up at the Doctor. Eggman gave a slight frown.

"Orbot! Cubot! Come give your brother a hand, will you?! The oaf's found himself on the floor!" He stood, waving his hand in the air as a signal. Moments later, Orbot and Cubot came around the corner, holding a variety of tools and kits. "C-Coming, Boss!" Cubot yelled, Orbot scrambling just behind. Starline too peered his head from around the corner, the destruction around him laid bare. 

"This is beyond anything I could have imagined. They were corpses, for Gaia's sake! How did they muster up the strength to do all of this?" Starline question, gripping his head in frustration. "And what's more concerning is that surge of energy from before. What kind of reaction could have had that effect?!" 

"Would you shut up for just a second." Eggman chimed in, clearly annoyed at Starline's endless banter. "What's done is done. All we can do now is pick up the pieces and rebuild. It's not like this sort of thing hasn't happened before." Starline glared at the Doctor, gritting his teeth. "And how can you stand for something like this?! Why are you just brushing it off like none of it ever happened?! I told you all of it was a bad idea, I told you nothing good would come from further experimentation! Why didn't you listen to me...WHY DIDN'T YOU TAKE MY WARNINGS SERIOUSLY?!" Starline shouted, agitated by the Doctor's naivety regarding the situation. 

"Oh please, not this conversation AGAIN! I am not obligated to take orders from a paranoid half-wit! The Ruby had shown no signs of such activity before, and there was no indication of something like this! Sure, a few corpses rose from the dead! Sure, energy readings were a little wonky! But I refuse to belief something as PROPOSTEROUS as the claims you spit out could EVER be a reality!" Eggman shouted, causing Starline to flinch. However, he remained adamant on his point. "What will it take to make you admit that you were wrong!? How many times must we have this conversation, Doctor?! A corpse just walked off with the Ruby still in its chest, and you call me a fool?! Why must you be so...SO-" 

"Boss! We've managed to free him from the plating. Though, his arm has been completely torn off. We should move to the Repair Bay for now." Orbot suddenly remarked, getting the attention of both doctors. 

"Right, then we'll make our way over. Haul your brother, will you?" Eggman responded, walking off toward the Repair Bay, passing Starline. "I'll deal with you later, Starline." He muttered, leaving him to stand in the hallway as Orbot and Cubot followed close behind, dragging Metal's body. Starline let out a long, deep sigh, before turning around to catch up.

A couple miles away from the facility, the Entity drags itself farther and farther into an open field of grass, hills and mountains surrounding the environment to form a valley. It took a few more steps forward, before eventually collapsing to the ground on its knees, breathing heavily. Looking down upon the hands of its vessel, flesh could be seen slowly peeling off to reveal bones. It was apparent such a weak body could not keep in the overwhelming power of the Ruby. The Entity lowered its head even further, coughing up small bits of gum tissue and blood. 

"I had to exert myself back there. I must hand it to that thing...he did manage to intrigue me." It muttered, now fully collapsing on the grass. "But to truly break free...I need more than feeble matter. A corpse is not enough to sustain my spirit."

The Entity slowly began to close its eyes, allowing the fresh grass to fully embrace it. Like a child entering the embrace of its mother, the Entity felt a feeling of warmth course throughout its body.

"To break these chains bound upon my wrists...I require WILL." 

"A WILL most infectious. A WILL that conquers all.

"Yes...that is what I need."

The Entity fully closes its eyes, allowing itself to rest for the time being, the scene now cutting to a birds-eye view of a blue blur, streaking across the horizon. 

Notes:

Sorry for the long wait, I got kinda busy with college and personal matters. However, I made sure to make the chapter extra-long in order to compensate! At long last, the actual EXE has been revealed, and we can now get into the world at large! Hope this chapter delivers!

Chapter 7: Try To Keep Up, Will Ya?

Summary:

The gang does some hero work!

Notes:

I tried to use some new formatting for this chapter, where dialogue lines are separated with spaces, and scenes are split with lines. I hope this makes it easier to understand what's going on.

"Yes, I don't need to be told a million times. You already gave me the list, Mom!" A female porcupine reluctantly turned to wave at her mother, who persisted with questions regarding grocery shopping.

"It's right around the corner dear, don't forget that!" The mother cupped her hands against her lips to yell toward the daughter, who grew even more agitated. Eventually, the daughter decided to walk away before the conversation dragged on any longer.

Walking along the roads of the quant village she lived in, the girl smiled as her walk turned into a skip. Birds were chirping, the sun was shining bright up in the sky...truly a wonderful time for a stroll. Others waved from their own porches, to which the girl responded with her own little greeting.

As she began to round the corner that would lead to the market, her stroll was abruptly halted by a sudden collision with another. She fell to the ground, her shopping basket following suit as it tumbled on the dirt. The girl winced in pain, rubbing her head to feel for any wounds, afterwards looking up to see who it was that caused the accident. Sitting in front of her on the ground was a male wolf, who met her gaze almost instantly, causing her spines to suddenly perk up on her back.

"Oh...Anderson! I didn't expect to tun into you today." She blurted out, looking flushed.

"R-Raya! Hey...how's it been?" Anderson responded almost immediately, his face equally as flushed with a bright red. The two kept glaring at each other for an extended period of time, completely forgetting about the accident. A bit of sweat ran down their foreheads, before each seemed to snap out of their trance. 

"Oh, yeah! My apologies, really...I was careless." Anderson said, quickly picking up Raya's basket before reaching his hand out to help her up. Raya stared him down for a bit, quickly shaking her head as she extended her hand toward his.

"It's fine, really! I wasn't watching where I was going, you're good!" She replied, being lifted up and taking some time to pat herself down.

"So, what're you doing? Did your mom send you on an errand run as well?"

"Yeah, and I was just coming back too. Though, I suppose I'll have to turn back around." Anderson looked off to the side, noting his own basket which had toppled over, spilling its contents onto the dirt. Raya quickly covered her mouth; an expression of shock plastered upon her face. Anderson noticed this, quickly waving his hands.

"Oh! No, it's fine, really Raya. It was my mistake to begin with, you don't have to feel bad!" Anderson quickly tried to rectify the situation, but Raya wasn't having it. She raised up her own basket, facing it toward Anderson. Her face was all scrunched up, turning an even deeper red than before.

"We'll go together, then. I can help you pay for the things on your list!" 

Anderson reached out his hand, about to respond, before suddenly...

BOOM.

Out of the corner of her eye, Raya could see the market area erupt into a great fire. The sounds of people's screams echoed throughout the small village, as both her and Anderson were taken aback.

"Oh, shit!  T-The markets...they're on fire!" Anderson exclaimed, his eyes widening at the sight. Raya stayed close behind him, slowly raising her hand to point toward the destruction.

"There's...something, coming out of the blaze." She stuttered, her breathing accelerating by the second. Anderson put his arm in front of her, attempting to shield her from whatever was coming. From the smoke emerged a horde of various batniks, advancing toward the greater village. Both Anderson and Raya swiftly turned around, attempting to run from the oncoming horde. 

"Oh god, not again! Not again!" Raya screamed, being dragged along by Anderson, holding her hand as tightly as he could.

"Don't think about it, and don't look back! Just focus on getting out of here!" Anderson yelled, trying his best to stay calm and composed. They could hear the sounds of lasers and bullets whizzing by, igniting new fires along their path. In the blink of an eye, the little village square had turned into a battlefield.

As the two attempted to turn the corner toward Raya's home, they stumbled on a bunch of stones lying on the dirt, causing Raya to take hard fall. Anderson turned, attempting to help her up before the batniks arrived.

"Just save yourself, please! They're going to be here any second!" Raya screamed, trying to get Anderson to let go, although he didn't budge. Determined to save her, he continued to try and lift her off the ground. Soon enough, however, they were met face to face with an Egg Pawn, rearing its arm cannon at the two. Turning his head to face the robot, Anderson quickly put himself in-between it and Raya, closing his eyes in anticipation for the end. The cannon could be heard charging up.

...

...

...

 The expected sound of cannon fire never came, being replaced by complete and utter silence. Confused by this, Anderson slowly began to open his eyes. Standing in front of him was the same Egg Pawn, only now it was missing both of its arms, sparking flying from the exposed wires in its arm sockets.

"Sorry, you don't mind if I borrow these, do you?" A voice emanated from behind the Egg Pawn, causing it to turn around. 

"I can give 'em back if you want." Sonic smirked, holding both of its arms like they were glow sticks. The bot attempted to advance toward the hedgehog, to which he responded by vanishing into thin air, leaving both arms on the ground. The light tapping of a foot could then be heard on the Egg Pawn's head.

"Eyes up here, pal." Sonic chimed, before BOOTING the robot's head straight off its body, causing the lifeless body to slam onto the ground. Hopping off, Sonic slowly approached Raya and Anderson, who could only watch the whole series of events in awe.

"What? Do I have something on my face?" Sonic tilted his head.

"Oh! No... it's just..." All Anderson could do was stutter. He was in utter disbelief at what just happened. Raya, however, was quick to stand, point a finger to the spot behind Sonic.

"Behind you! Look out!" She yelled, another Egg Pawn about to grab ahold of the hedgehog. 

ZIP. BOOM!

Just then, a hole was shot clean through the Egg Pawn's upper torso, exposing the inner gears and wires. The batnik slowly fell onto its knees, before its face slammed into the dirt. Sonic turned around, looking upwards toward the source of the shot, waving his hand in the air.

"Thanks, Tails!" Sonic yelled, before turning his attention back to Anderson and Raya.

"You two should really get out of here now. Trust me, we got you covered from here." Sonic smirked, to which Anderson and Raya also gave a slight smile, Anderson quickly helping Raya up before the two ran off.

With that taken care of, Sonic now turned around to face the rest of the batniks rampaging throughout the village. He took a moment to do a few quick stretches, cracking his neck as well as his knuckles.

"Alright then, looks like you all are next." He exclaimed, setting his sights on the army as a whole, getting into a running position.

"Just try to keep up, will ya?" A sonic boom followed the last line, as Sonic dashed forward at full speed toward the oncoming batniks. One of them, seeing the blue blur rushing its way, quickly tried to swing its arm forward, to which Sonic responded by going even faster, phasing right through the limb entirely. As the Egg Pawn looked back down at its arm, it could see the limb tied together like some kind of knot. 

"FORE!" Sonic yelled from behind the robot, booting it straight through the torso as it was flung into the air. As it flew, it was quickly shot down by another laser fired off by Tails.

Continuing his rampage through the army, Sonic blitzed through countless other batniks, busting holes through each of their torsos as multiple explosions went off behind him. Wiping his brow, Sonic was then interrupted by a loud *THUD* in front of him. Looking up to see what it was, he was met face-to-face with a giant EggBot. It swung its giant arm toward Sonic, attempting to squash the hedgehog where he stood. However, as it was about to strike, something came in-between the two at the last second, blocking the hit as a loud *CLINK* could be heard across the battlefield. Sonic tilted his head to the side, taking a good look at who it was before smiling.

"Couldn't have showed up at a better time, Commander." He smirked, to which the figure sighed, revealing themselves to be Amy Rose, blocking the giant fist with her signature Piko Piko Hammer.

"You and your sarcasm...honestly, I have no idea how I put up with you every day." She responded, pushing the giant fist back with the hammer, now slamming its base on the ground, still gripping the handle.

"Be honest, you can't get enough of it, can you?" Sonic chuckled, shrugging while giving off a confident demeaner. Amy blushed slightly, before shaking her head.

"Shut up, will you?!" She fired back, twirling the hammer in her hand before settling on a dual-hand grip, holding it across from her body in an attack position. Sonic followed suit, getting in another running pose.

"You first, I insist." Sonic said, looking toward Amy.

"Why, thank you, I think I'll take you up on that offer." She responded, quickly jumping up in the air toward the EggBot, reeling her hammer back into a striking position, before WHACKING the thing right into the robot's torso, causing an indent in its metal plating. Sonic followed this up by speeding forward, kicking up into the air and hitting the torso with a spin dash. The EggBot reeled back slightly, almost losing its balance before getting back into place, swinging its arm forward as to catch Sonic off guard, who was still in the air after his spin dash. 

"Oh no you don't!" A voice could be heard calling from the distance, as Tails quickly flew into action, firing off a laser straight into the EggBot's hand, creating a sizeable hole. This allowed Sonic to quickly land, as the EggBot reeled back its hand. 

"Nice save, bud!" Sonic called out, to which Tails gave him a thumbs up. Meanwhile, Amy rushed forward once more, now focusing on the Eggbot's legs as he rammed her hammer full force straight into one of its knees, taking the whole thing off balance. With this, Sonic quickly looked up toward Tails, who looked back at him with a sort of understanding.

"Mind giving me a hand here?" Sonic yelled, quickly jumping up toward Tails, grabbing onto his hand. The fox gave a cocky grin as he began to spin round and round with Sonic latched on, eventually letting go as if releasing a missile. Sonic flew through the air at high speeds, balling up into another spin-dash before piercing right through the EggBot's armor and coming out the other side of its torso. The robot staggered back slightly, before fully collapsing on the ground, sparks flying from its open wound. As Sonic landed on the ground, he began to run over toward Tails, who was also just now landing. As the two met each other, both gave a quick high five in celebration.

"Just like we practiced!" Sonic exclaimed, to which Tails grinned.

"Mhm! It was even better than I had expected!"

Amy simply stood in the background, shaking her head with eyes closed, smiling.

---

"So how's your work going for the Resistance? Any new developments I should be aware of?" Sonic asked Amy, both of them sitting on a nearby bench not far from the wrecked batniks, having taken care of civilian safety and evacuations.

"It's...stressful, as always. Even though Eggman's been gone for about a month now, people are still worried that something bad is going to happen. However, the only thing major that we've had to deal with are these rogue batniks." She waved her arm around toward the now scrap metal laid out in front of them.

"And what about Knuckles? Isn't he helping you handle everything over there?" Sonic questioned, to which Amy gave a slight groan.

"He's been helping from time to time...but mainly with everything combat related. Besides, he's spending most of his time guarding the Emerald up on Angel Island."

"You and I both know that knuckle head far too well. There's nothing more important to him than protecting the Master Emerald...and I can't really blame him after what happened with Chaos." Sonic replied, leaning back on the bench a bit.

"And besides...you always got me and Tails in your backline! All you have to do is call." He exclaimed, looking over toward Amy with a smile.

"You know...this would be a lot easier if you would just join the Resistance." Amy contested, smirking a bit as she met Sonic's look. 

"And you know why I can't do that, Ames." He sighed, though still smiling.

"I get it, you don't want to be around me and the others. Is that it, Sonic?" She responded, chuckling as Sonic quickly stood up, a bit embarrassed.

"What...NO! That's not what I-" He waved his arms around, trying to defend himself.

"You're too easily flustered, Sonic." Tails walked up, patting him on the arm while also chuckling.

"Flustered? Me? No, I was just trying...YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN!" He retorted, all to the entertainment of both Amy and Tails.

Notes:

Finally get to introduce some more characters besides Eggman and crew! I'm still trying to work out the dynamics here, but I hope this was a good chapter either way! Not sure when the next one will be, but I'll do my best to get it out. I'm still figuring things out at college, so it could take some time.

Chapter 8: An Unexpected Encounter PT.1

Summary:

Sonic and Tails are sent on a mission by Amy to infiltrate an Eggman Depot for supplies and information. However, their mission is interrupted by a few unexpected visitors.

Notes:

Chapter is a bit shorter than usual, but I'll come out with the next part within the week!

Sonic stood atop the right wing of the Tornado, looking down upon the horizon as Tails soared the plane high into the sky. The hedgehog covered his eyes with his hand to block the sunlight peeking from the clouds above, kneeling down on the wing in order to get a better look at the ground.

"I think I see it down there, bud. Lower us in, nice and smooth." Sonic exclaimed, Tails complying as the plane began to slowly descend. Down below was the birds-eye view of one of Eggman's many supply depots, still operational even after the events of the battle with Infinite. 

"You know, as much of a terrible person as the Doctor is...I do have to admire his craft. Despite weeks of little maintenance, the factory still stands in pristine condition." Tails commented, rearing the plane off to the side, rolling slightly to gain a better view of the facility. Sonic gave a slight scoff, wiping his thumb across his lips to reveal a smirk.

"Well, admire it all you can, because once we're done with it, there won't be anything to look at! Just heaps of scrap metal and broken dreams, am I right?" He chuckled, Tails doing the same. 

"Get ready to jump, Sonic!" He shouted, tipping the plane off to the side ever-so-slightly, allowing the hedgehog to dash off the wing and straight toward the ground below, causing a loud *BANG* as he landed. Sonic stood up, wiping the dust off his shoulders and quills before looking ahead at the greater facility, coming face to face with a great number of batniks, acting as a line of defense. Sonic cracked his knuckles, getting into a fighting stance.

"Come on, don't you know how to treat a guest?" He remarked, dashing forward toward the mass of machines, ready to take them all on in an epic display of-

"CHAOS...CONTROL!"

In an instant, Sonic's sprint forward was halted by a series of sudden explosions scattered across the area, his former robotic opponents now having their parts scattered across the ground. Sonic was left standing there in a state of confusion as parts continued to fall all around him. Needing answers, he looked up to see who, or what, was causing all of this, being met with a familiar sight.

"Just can't keep away from me, can you...faker?" Sonic finally blurted out, his eyes now fixed on whatever had just appeared.

The Ultimate Lifeform and Notorious Doppelganger: Shadow the Hedgehog.

"The blue hedgehog...and what reason do you have for following me?" Shadow now landed on the ground, making his way toward Sonic with a slow walk.

"Me? Following you, of all people? Please, you're the one who followed ME here!" Sonic said, waving his hand in front of Shadow's face. He didn't budge, only rearing his head back a bit as Sonic's hand passed by. 

"I'm only here because Rouge dragged me along. If I had known you were to show up, I would have given this whole thing the boot." Shadow grunted, crossing his arms and looking off to the side a bit. Sonic tilted his entire body to look around toward Shadow's face.

"Wait, Rouge is here too? Where is she right now?" Sonic questioned, only to be interrupted by a loud yell of in the distance.

"Soniiiiiiic! Heeyyyyyyy!" Rouge waved her arm up and down, flying over with Tails close behind. They both landed on the ground a few feet away from Sonic and Shadow, walking over before stopping right in front of them. 

"Long time no see, Blue. How's it been going for you and the Resistance?" Rouge said to Sonic, putting a hand on her hip. 

"As good as it can be, I guess. Although, you do know I'm not technically in the Resistance, right?" Sonic responded, tilting his head at the statement.

"You say that, but you seem to be pretty adamant on being there for Amy. Why else would you be doing her so many favors?" Rouge shrugged, causing Sonic to turn a bit red. 

"W-Well, you see...she's very busy and... HEY, HOLD ON! Enough of that, why are YOU here? I thought you left the Resistance to go back to working for G.U.N." Sonic retorted, shaking his head to get rid of his obvious blush.

"What do you think I'm here for, Hun? G.U.N wanted me to conduct a few searches around the remaining active Eggman Depots. And besides that, these places are basically treasure troves for a girl like me. I can't pass up such a GOLDEN opportunity, you, see?" Rouge smirked, moving her hand under her chin as she gave a slight chuckle. 

"I should have figured as much, coming from you." Sonic sighed, now looking toward Tails, who stood right beside Rouge.

"She didn't take anything from the Tornado, did she?" He asked Tails, who shook his head.

"No, but she did try to haggle me on the way here. Something about a 'business opportunity' that I simply couldn't miss." Tails side-eyed Rouge, who looked a little nervous.

"What can I say...a gal's got to make her money somehow." She gave a nervous grin, to which Sonic simply stared at her with a suspicious look. Shadow stood in the background, shaking his head.

All of a sudden, the sound of footsteps could be heard coming toward the group, causing them to swiftly turn around to see what it was. A new batch of batniks had emerged from within the facility, their weapons drawn and at the ready. Both Sonic and Shadow put themselves in-between Rouge, Tails, and the oncoming horde of robots.

"Why don't we have a little competition? Whoever bashes the most batniks makes the other admit they're the faker!" Sonic declared, looking toward Shadow with a smirk. Without any hesitation, Shadow instantly blitzed toward the robot horde, much to Sonic's delight, who revved himself up as sparks of blue electricity flew from behind him.

"Oh, you're on then!" 

 

Notes:

I had the sudden motivation to write, and I really wanted to get a chapter out. I decided to separate this into two parts to allow Shadow and Rouge to have proper introductions, rather than being stuffed into the middle of a long chapter.