Sapphire and Shadow are in their homeland, confused as to why the others are so intently waiting for them. Then, it comes to Sapphire as to why they're waiting. The others aren't waiting, they're looking at Sapphire's body; she's now a hedgehog, with crimson and navy-blue spines and plain navy-blue fur. Sapphire hasn't aged past fourteen years old.
"What are you all looking at?" Sapphire asks, keeping calm
"You look different, my friend. Hedgehog different." Tails says and soon adds "Go find a mirror of some sort."
Sapphire calmly goes to the waters and admires her new look. She now feels like her neighbouring kind, a Mobian. Shadow joins Sapphire, in her euphoria.
"Hey, you two lovebirds. Let's get to celebrating your victory." Blaze says, with her excitement rising
"Let's go, Sapphire." Shadow says, bringing up his confidence
Sapphire and Shadow join the others for the festivities; for Sapphire to meet Amy.
"Looks like you've got an apology to make, Amy." Sonic says, prompting action from Amy
Amy walks towards Sapphire, keeping her composure and signalling her remorse.
"Sorry for the trouble, Sapphire. I thought it was fun to get involved. I guess it wasn't for the pair of you. Apologies to you as well, Shadow." Amy says her apologies, not begging for forgiveness
"Look, I've put the past behind me. I'm willing to forgive you and be your friend. I wasn't thinking when I was being irrational. So, I give you my apologies as well." Sapphire says her apologies, forgiving Amy as well
"It's all good, Amy. Just don't do it again, alright?" Shadow forgives Amy
"I've learned my lesson from that time. I'll never get into trouble like that again. Ever."
"Now that that's out the way, let's get to celebrating!" Tails says, turning up the excitement in the area
The festivities continue from where they left off, late into the night. Sapphire and Shadow get out of the crowd, to steal some much-needed time together.
"That was different. You were in that crowd, owning it like a professional!" Sapphire says, impressed by Shadow's sudden improvement
"I could say the same about you. Dancing, talking... You were brilliant!" Shadow says, complimenting Sapphire
"Thanks, Shadow. The love and trust are there. So, I may as well say it. I love you."
"I feel the same about you. I love you too, Sapphire."
The pair soon get close, keeping each other warm in the cold night. Soon, the festivities end and everyone turns in for the night. Shadow and Sapphire decide to do the same.
Morning comes, and everyone is tired from the previous night, including Sapphire and Shadow. Sapphire suddenly awakens, sluggish and tired as ever.
'Oh, darn. I'm so tired, last night and yesterday were so packed.' Sapphire thinks to herself
After around an hour… or two, Shadow wakes up having forgotten what happened the previous night, excluding his time with Sapphire.
"Good morning, sleep well?" Sapphire says and asks
"What happened last night?" Shadow asks, with partial amnesia
"That event, party whatever you wanna call it. I can't remember what it was for, but it got us all tired."
"We saved the city and our homeland yesterday. That's what we were all celebrating. What did happen last night?"
"I don't remember anything, apart from our time together. That's it. I'm so tired I can't remember."
Having forgotten near enough everything that happened last night; apart from the time they managed to steal, Sapphire and Shadow decide to go to the others and ask them. Sapphire spots Tails.
"Hey, Tails. How are you?" Sapphire greets and asks
"Hey, there. I'm good thanks. What happened to you two last night?" Tails says and asks
"We spent some time away from the crowd. We're wondering whether you remember anything before that. We don't remember a thing." Shadow answers and informs
"It all started with Sapphire apologising to Amy and her doing the same in return. Then we all just got to dancing and talking, like we all do at these things. Then, you two left the crowd and we didn't see you for the rest of the night. That's all the details."
"Thanks, Tails." Sapphire says her thanks
"You're welcome. I'll see you around. The others are walking around, tired and can't remember anything but the social side of last night."
"See you around, Tails."
Tails leaves to get the others under control and helping them remember more than the socialisation from last night.
"So, that's what happened last night, right?" Shadow asks, still trying to remember last night's events
"I'm guessing as much. I trust Tails, and his words." Sapphire answers, trying to jog Shadow's memory
"No, I don't remember. I'm going back home to rest. Coming?"
"Yeah, why not? I'm so tired."
"It's the same with me."
Sapphire and Shadow return home and go back to sleep. Sometime later, the pair wake up, again. This time, they can't get back to sleep.
"Hey, why are you awake?" Sapphire asks
"I was going to ask you the same thing." Shadow responds
"I can't get back to sleep. I'm guessing that you can't either."
"No, I can't. Still tired?"
"After waking up repeatedly, not sleeping well. Yeah, I'm still tired. Are you?"
"Yes, yesterday was a tiring one. The fighting, celebrating, trying to talk to others. Tiring, and still facing tiredness now."
"I'll give you that one. Only, I don't have problems talking to them. Why do you?"
"My motto is: 'I serve no-one'. Also, I've never really talked to others much."
"At least, you used to serve no-one until I came along."
"You're different, special and my girlfriend. They're the bigger picture, even if there aren't many of them."
"Do you like talking to them?"
"Not all of them. Sonic and Tails are two good friends of mine. We just don't talk much."
"Does it hurt, or is it something that you're more used to?"
"I'm used to it. I wasn't liked very much in the past, because of my wrongdoings, and who I had to put up with trying to work for."
"I'm not gonna ask who that someone was. 'Cause that's not my business, or place to get involved."
"Thank you. I'd rather if they didn't remember my past at all. But the memories are always there, even if you don't want them to be."
"I'll agree on that one."
After this, Sapphire and Shadow stay sat up and get closer together. With Sapphire's head on his shoulder, Shadow feels proud about his ability to keep her around.
'I didn't expect her to stick around. She did, and I love her more for that. Her head on my shoulder seals the deal.' Shadow thinks to himself
Hours pass; night falls and the pair are soon asleep, as calm as ever. Later in the night, Sapphire awakens and realises that Shadow is still fast asleep. Without waking him up, Sapphire leaves and goes to her former resting place.
'I love him like the world. But how have I awakened? It's not him, I can assure myself of that.' Sapphire thinks to herself
Sapphire soon goes back to Shadow's home to sleep. To her surprise, he's still sleeping. Sapphire soon sits down next to Shadow, making sure to not sit on his arm. Shadow soon moves, prompting Sapphire to stop what she's doing. To her expectation, Shadow remains asleep, for a few moments at least. Sapphire is turned away, still wondering why she has awakened so suddenly. Shadow soon awakens, noticing Sapphire sat upright.
"Sapphire, are you alright?" Shadow asks, half-awake
"I can't get to sleep. I've woken up suddenly. That's all." Sapphire answers, keeping her emotions in
"Is there something else?"
"I'll explain in the morning. You need your sleep."
"Okay, goodnight."
"Goodnight, Shadow."
Shadow returns to sleep, almost instantaneously. As for Sapphire, she's laying down, making her attempts to do the same, with no avail. Morning comes, and Sapphire is still laying down, awake and unable to sleep. Shadow soon awakens, sitting up. He turns to Sapphire, realising that she's been awake for most of the night.
"Good morning. Now, tell me. What did you want to explain?" Shadow says and asks
Sapphire soon sits up, so that she can talk, or try to.
"I'm still grieving over my mother. Even if it was in the objective to save the city and for the stuff, she's put me through, the emotions course through like blood. Those emotions aren't very nice to feel." Sapphire admits, holding back tears
"Just one question, are you guilty for what you've had to do?" Shadow asks
"Yes, I'm guilty. But that doesn't come above the grief at this point. That's the main reason why I didn't sleep for most of last night."
"Turn to me. You need to let this out, somehow."
Sapphire soon turns to Shadow, remembering the good times she had with her mother. Before her teenage years. Shadow notices Sapphire's changing body language.
"Is there something else? You seem uneasy." Shadow asks
"I remember the good times with my mother, like they've only just happened. Even if they were nothing short of a decade ago. It feels like the reasons for her death aren't at all sufficient." Sapphire says, letting out her held in tears
"She was evil, because of your difference, of which seems like wasn't found out until a time that wasn't helpful. Of course, when you were eleven."
"I'll admit, it wasn't all that helpful when she kept pointing it out for the past three years. My parents were considering a divorce during that time, and it all got tense after I left. It was for the best, but it seems like for those two; it just made things worse."
"I might not understand the meaning of having parents. But I get your pain, to a degree. The disrespect your mother put you and your father through was unforgivable. Not to make you feel worse."
"It's fine. We all deal with grief and other related emotions differently. Me not sleeping is my way of coping."
"Of which isn't helping your recovery from last time. Look, I love you and will continue to look out for you. But this is concerning me. It won't be long before Tails asks how we're getting on."
"He's a friend, isn't he? Plus, I've coped with not sleeping before now. So, it's second nature."
"You need your sleep. I'm going to leave you be. I don't want to keep you awake."
"Thank you, Shadow."
"It's all good. Sleep well."
Sapphire accepts Shadow's offer and Shadow leaves to join the others. Sapphire lays down again, calming her composure so that she can sleep. After around an hour or two, she's in a baby-like sleep. As for Shadow, he bumps into Tails.
"Hey, Shadow. What are you doing out?" Tails greets and asks
"Sapphire's asleep. How are you?" Shadow answers and asks
"I'm all good. How are things between..."
"Come with me, and I'll tell you."
Shadow and Tails go to a more secluded area of the homeland.
"Things between Sapphire and I are good. Sapphire didn't sleep last night and is grieving over her mother." Shadow admits, beginning to worry about Sapphire
"Wasn't her mother that monster that everyone was speaking about?" Tails asks
"Yes, her mother was the monster."
"Why is Sapphire's grief directed at her then?"
"Sapphire remembers the good times before she battled her mother. When she was small."
"Oh, that's why she's not sleeping. Is there something else bothering you?"
"I want her to know how much she means to me. I don't know how to do it."
"You're better off going to Sonic and Amy for that one. Me personally, I don't know."
"Okay, thank you Tails."
"Don't mention it. That's what friends are for."
"I'll see you around, Tails."
"Same to you, Shadow."
Tails and Shadow part their ways. Shadow goes to find Sonic and Amy, for romance advice. Shadow soon finds Sonic and Amy, doing their thing as usual. He soon brings up the courage to talk to them, ignoring what they're up to.
"Hey, Shadow. What are you doing here?" Sonic greets and asks
"I need advice. I don't know how to express how much Sapphire means to me." Shadow says
"Just do your thing; as in, be yourself. Tell her how you really feel." Amy says, beginning to become concerned
"I always do that, as in being nothing but myself."
"What does she enjoy?" Sonic asks
"We did have a race when we first got to know one another. But that was on her accord when she was still human."
"Did she enjoy that?"
"We both did."
"What was she like when you were out fighting in the city?"
"Sapphire came up with the ideas, she was the mastermind behind almost everything."
"A strategic individual. Anything else?"
"We both had high adrenaline. But hers was higher than my own."
"And an adrenaline junkie. Sonic, I think I know how Shadow can prove how worthy Sapphire is to him." Amy says, sounding like she's come up with an idea
Amy is soon whispering ideas into Sonic's ear. Shadow is soon confused, as to what Amy's talking about.
"Shadow, Amy's got an idea. You'll need to bring Sapphire when she's more awake and energetic." Sonic says
"What do you two have in mind?" Shadow asks, expressing his concern
"It's nothing harmful, or at least shouldn't cause harm." Amy says, prompting Shadow to go against the idea
"Oh, no. If you've got a battle in mind, that is not happening." Shadow says, expressing his disapproval
"Amy, what did we agree on about these things you call ideas?" Sonic asks
"I know, don't suggest them if there's disapproval. But I think this will work."
"I'm not going with it. If the risk of harm between us both is high, like the city was, I disagree on going with it." Shadow says
"When Amy comes up with one of these ideas, she won't stop until it goes about."
"Fine. I'll go with it. I don't want this happening again."
"It won't, and I'll make sure of it."
"Let's just hope it goes the way we all want it to." Sonic thinks out loud
Shadow soon makes his way home, fearful of what the outcome will be. Sapphire soon awakens, wondering where Shadow is. Shadow soon turns up at the shelter, with Sapphire preparing to stand up.
"Hey, there. Where have you been?" Sapphire greets and asks
"With Sonic and Amy. Just a general conversation. That's all." Shadow answers, in an uneasy state
"A general conversation. What's going on?"
"Nothing. I assure you of that."
"If there is something going on, you're explaining everything. Understand?"
"Yes."
"I'm going out to practice my magic skills. I'll leave you to do your thing."
Sapphire goes out and Shadow doesn't say a word.
'Why did I agree to this? It's not something I agree with doing.' Shadow thinks to himself, still fearing the outcome of what he's agreed to
As for Sapphire, she's found a more secluded area to practice her magic. She clicks her fingers for any new developments. Nothing shows up. Then, she remembers a healing spell from when she was six years old.
"Powers, with mystery and the unknown, heal the ailment from the sufferer's veins." Sapphire says, practicing her spell on a dying plant
To Sapphire's surprise, the spell works. Whether it'll work on someone who walks, talks, and is alive is another thing to find out. As for Shadow, he's still under intense pressure to prove how much Sapphire means to him.
'Right, I need to come up with something to use in battle. Sounds harsh, but it's something that I've involuntarily agreed to.' Shadow says, rushing to another part of the homeland, with his gun
As the day draws on, Sapphire and Shadow are practicing their skills in different areas. After a few hours, Shadow stops his practice and realises that his gun wasn't the only thing that was improving, his magic was too. Shadow is now even more fearful of what'll happen in the battle with Sapphire. He drops his gun, and lets the fear take over. As for Sapphire, she decides to call it a morning and go home. Shadow soon decides to go home and pick up his left-hand gauntlet, to find Sapphire home before he is.
"Oh, hello. What are you doing here?" Shadow asks, still uneasy from earlier on in the day
"I've come here to have a break. Is everything alright? You seem uneasy." Sapphire answers and asks
"Yes, I'm all good. I've just come here to get my left-hand gauntlet. That's all."
"I'll get it."
Sapphire uses her magic to hand Shadow his gauntlet.
"Thank you, Sapphire." Shadow says his thanks
"You're welcome. Are you sure that everything is alright?"
"Yes, I'm certain."
Shadow soon leaves, keeping his emotions in. Sapphire soon begins to wonder what Shadow is worried about.
'He doesn't seem alright. What's troubling him?' Sapphire thinks and asks herself
Shadow is soon with Sonic and Amy, with Amy wondering where Sapphire is.
"Where's Sapphire?" Amy asks, with her anticipation rising
"At home, awake." Shadow answers, becoming yet more fearful, and stressed
"Get hold of her, tell her to come here."
"I don't think that this is such a good idea."
Amy soon gives Shadow an awful look. Shadow gets hold of Sapphire on his gauntlet.
"Amy, what are you doing?" Sonic asks, slightly angered by Amy's decision
"Trust me, is all I can say." Amy says
"The only problem is, I don't!"
As for Shadow, he's talking to Sapphire.
"Hey, there. What's needed?" Sapphire greets and asks
"We're both wanted, near where the others stay around. I'll explain later." Shadow answers and says
"I'll be there shortly."
Sapphire soon cuts off her communications and races to where Shadow is. Bewildered by the area set up, she begins to question Sonic about the set up and the intentions.
"Hey, Sonic. What's going on?" Sapphire questions
"Shadow wants to show you how much you mean to him, and Amy had one of her ideas. Of which, Shadow and I had no choice but to agree to." Sonic admits, becoming agitated about Amy
"Wait, Amy's behind all this?"
"Yes, my apologies for not exposing this earlier." Shadow admits and apologises
"I know this isn't your doing. But, along with Sonic and Amy, you've got explaining to do."
"I knew you were gonna say that."
Sonic soon becomes more agitated. Shadow and Sapphire are soon instructed to stand in front of one another. Sapphire soon notices Shadow's gun in his hands.
"Now, that everything is in order. Let this thing begin. Shadow versus Sapphire. Three... two... one... Start!" Amy calls out
Shadow soon makes his first attack, of which Sapphire deflects with a magical shield. Sapphire soon makes her first attack, for Shadow to dodge the attack, just. The attacks and defences keep going, for Shadow to take a wrong turn, and get hit by one of Sapphire's attacks. Shadow soon falls to the ground, backwards. Sapphire soon brings down her defence and runs to Shadow's aid.
"Oh, no. What have I done?" Sapphire thinks out loud
Sapphire places her hands-on Shadow's right arm and chest.
"Powers, with mystery and the unknown, heal the ailment from the sufferer's veins." Sapphire says her spell, healing most of Shadow's wounds; leaving one injury to recover on its own
"What just happened?" Shadow asks, tired from the healing
"You fell down, during battle. Now tell me, what's going on? You're never like this."
"All I wanted to do, was prove how much you mean to me. Then, this happens. I apologise." Shadow admits
"It's alright. I'll help you to your feet."
Sapphire helps Shadow to his feet, and quickly looks towards Sonic and Amy; with anger building up. Sapphire assists Shadow to his shelter, for Sonic and Amy to follow. The group soon arrive at Shadow's shelter.
"Now, explain one at a time, both of you. What was planned without me knowing?" Sapphire instructs and asks
"Amy planned this battle for Shadow's sake, because he said that he wanted to prove how much you mean to him. Of course, she didn't think her idea through." Sonic says, holding the guilt in his face
"This got Shadow hurt. Even if it was my attack, he still got hurt. Amy, your turn to explain yourself!"
Amy is soon left speechless, unable to admit the truth. With Shadow on the floor and a pair of partners about to lose it with one another, Sapphire doesn't know whether to leave or stay. But then...
"Sonic and Amy, could you go home, please?" Sapphire asks
"Sure thing. You've got explaining to do, Amy." Sonic accepts and informs
"Fine." Amy says, hiding her agitation
Sonic and Amy go back to their home. As for Shadow, he's trying to stand up alone, with no avail.
"Do you need help?" Sapphire asks
"No, I don't. I'll manage." Shadow asks, still trying to stand up
"I'll get down to your level."
Sapphire sits down next to Shadow.
"Are you okay? You fell to the floor and seemed defeated when you woke up." Sapphire asks and says
"All I wanted to do is prove..." Shadow answers, beginning to break down
"How much I mean to you. I know, and respect that. But I don't understand why it had to come to a battle."
"All I did was ask for advice, and this is how I've ended up. Injured and unable to move."
"This isn't your fault; it was my attack that got you in that state."
"It's not your fault that you were doing that. You were dragged into something you didn't know about, nor had any right to have done so."
"You were dragged into it against your will. I didn't expect to get involved. If I knew, I would've disagreed with the plans. Knowing that you'd never want to put me in danger, I'd never want to put you in danger either. That's what Amy's done."
"Sonic didn't stop her though."
"It sounds to me that he couldn't do that. It also sounds to me, like Amy takes all the control in the romance she has with Sonic."
"Please don't involve yourself. I don't want you getting hurt."
"Their relationship is not my place to get involved. I won't get into something of which my presence is unnecessary."
Sapphire and Shadow soon get close and calm each other's nerves. As for Sonic and Amy... the same can't be said.
"Why did you have to involve yourself? Yet again, with one of your stupid ideas!" Sonic asks and shouts, angered and embarrassed
"Shadow wanted help; I gave it." Amy asks, blaming Shadow for her wrongdoing
"He asked for advice, not for a physical battle. I was going to give him the advice he asked for, before you got yourself involved, and caused yet another mess. I don't know what I'm going to do with you. You're always doing this, I hate it!"
"Why didn't you give him the advice if that's what he asked for? You're his friend, after all."
"So, now you're blaming me? None of this is my fault. You came up with the ideas, you're the one that made the mess. Not me, or Shadow, or Sapphire for that matter. Never blame others for your mess. You'll lose friends and end up losing me if you're not careful."
With Sonic and Amy at each other's throats, Tails decides to see how Sapphire and Shadow are getting on after the day's events. He soon arrives at Shadow's home, to find the door open. Tails knocks on the door, to catch Sapphire and Shadow's attention.
"Hey, can I come in?" Tails greets and asks
"Come in. Right now, we need a friend that isn't at someone else's throat." Sapphire says, letting Tails in
Tails enters the shelter, sitting down to Sapphire and Shadow's level.
"How are you both getting on?" Tails asks
"I'm injured, thanks to all this." Shadow answers, letting some of his anger out
"My attack went for Shadow, he took a wrong turn and got hit. I didn't want any harm to come out of any of this. But that was the result. It feels terrible that I didn't get injured at the same time." Sapphire says, beginning to break
"You don't deserve an injury. I didn't want any of this either. But, it happened, and the clock can't be turned back. Ahh."
"Where is Shadow injured?"
"The majority of my blast hit Shadow's upper leg. I didn't expect it to affect him that much. Sorry about all of this, Shadow."
"It's all good. This doesn't help the fact that you're still grieving over your mother."
"No, it doesn't help at all."
"Do you want me to leave, or stick around?"
"Stay with us. We need a friend, at this point in time." Shadow says his words, soon wanting to rest his head
Shadow is soon falling asleep, and Tails decides to stay; much to Sapphire's surprise.
"How are you, anyway?" Sapphire asks
"Concerned for you two, to be honest. I mean, this battle you both got dragged into." Tails says, expressing his concerns
"I know, it's Amy's wrongdoing. An apology is all I'm going to expect, for now. Whether I'm going to get that with Shadow alongside, is a question waiting to be answered."
Soon Shadow begins to move, prompting Tails to go on his way.
"I'll see you around, Sapphire. I've got Sonic and Amy to assist." Tails says
"Goodbye for now, Tails." Sapphire says
Tails heads on his way, and Sapphire keeps a close eye on Shadow. Sapphire soon makes a piece of paper and pen appear. She writes: 'Hey there, Shadow. I've gone out to see my father and friend in the city. I'll be back later. Love, Sapphire'. Sapphire puts the note on top of Shadow's left hand, the side that would be most visible to him when he awakens. Sapphire goes to a more secluded area of her homeland and transforms into her city being. She is soon on her way to the city.
As for Shadow, he soon awakens noticing Sapphire's note. He reads the note and goes out to find Tails, trying to walk.
"Hey, Shadow. Where's Sapphire?" Tails greets and asks
"She's gone to see her father and friend in the city. What's needed?" Shadow answers and asks
"Amy over here has an apology to make." Sonic says, still angered at Amy
Amy soon calms her composure.
"Sorry for the trouble I've put you both through. All you did was ask for advice, and my idea got outta hand." Amy says, trying to keep her anger low
"Look, I don't know whether to forgive you; because you put us both in danger when you did that. Of course, Sapphire might forgive you, but she's not here at the minute. I'll think this through before I make my decision." Shadow says his words, heading back home
As for Geraldine, she's arrived at her father's home. She knocks and waits for her father's response.
"Come in, Geraldine." Geraldine's father says
Geraldine enters, to see Felicity sitting on the sofa.
"Hey, Felicity." Geraldine greets, as Felicity turns to her
"Hey, there Geraldine." Felicity greets, keeping her responses short
"Are you alright, my friend? You seem down."
"I've come to terms with my parents not being here. It's a process of grief and regret, mostly."
"Felicity is also coming to terms with her place in the city. Of course, this new title she's been given by the city people, is a rather high position." Geraldine's father admits, in Felicity's place
"I can understand the grief for your parents. But, holding it in doesn't help you. I know, I've done it before."
"I've worked that out already. But, having this high title put on me, literally forces me to grow up faster than I can take naturally."
"How old are you?"
"I'm thirteen, still. My birthday is next week. Why, how old are you?"
"Still fourteen."
"Wait, your birthday was last week. How have you not aged past that age?" Geraldine's father points out and asks
"I don't know. It's just how I was born. I'm probably not meant to age past fourteen, after moving to where I've wanted to."
The group soon gets back to talking about Felicity's position in the city. As for Tails and Shadow, they're waiting upon Sapphire's return since Sonic and Amy are still at each other's throats. As for Geraldine, after a couple of hours, decides to make her departure home.
"I'll see you both soon. I'm going to go back home now." Geraldine says her goodbyes
"Okay. Enjoy the remainder of your day." Felicity says
"Thank you, Felicity. The same to you, too. Goodbye for now, father."
"See you soon, Geraldine." Geraldine's father replies
Geraldine soon makes her way out of the city and to near her home. She transforms back into her hedgehog self and returns home, to notice Sonic and Amy still at each other's throats, and Shadow and Tails trying to calm them down.
"Hey, what's going on?" Sapphire greets and asks
"Sonic and Amy are still fighting over earlier on today. We're trying to break them up and get them to go their separate ways." Tails admits, trying to do his part
"Of course, with no avail. We need Blaze, to be honest. She broke me and Amy up when we got into a fight."
"This is about something different. You two were fighting over Amy's nosiness. They're fighting over a wrongdoing on Amy's part." Shadow says, trying to get Sonic away from Amy
"Let me take care of this. Tails, go do your own thing. Shadow, you're meant to be resting that injury of yours."
"I'll stick around here."
"No, this is going to take me a while. Head home."
Shadow heads back home, still struggling on his feet, and Sapphire separates the pair of 'partners' with a temporary spell. Tails assists Shadow to his home.
"Right, now that you two are separated, before you start fist fighting each other. Tell me, what is going on?" Sapphire asks
Soon, Sonic and Amy are both talking and shouting at the same time. Sapphire soon zips Amy's mouth closed with a spell.
'This is going to be one long evening…' Sapphire thinks to herself
"Now, that Amy is quiet. Tell me your side, Sonic." Sapphire says and instructs
"We're fighting over that battle that happened earlier, between Shadow and yourself. Not just that, we're also fighting over the fact that she doesn't think before she puts these plans of hers into action. Then, she goes about blaming me, you and Shadow for today's events; of which were her fault." Sonic says his words, knowing what to expect he keeps quiet
"Right, now time for Amy to say her side."
Sapphire soon returns Amy's mouth to the way it's meant to be. As for Sonic, his mouth his zipped shut.
"Amy, your turn." Sapphire says, waiting for Amy's response
"I can't take all the blame. That's something that I'm sticking with." Amy says, keeping the truth in
"All Sonic, Shadow, Tails and I want to hear from you is the truth. This is your wrongdoing, yes?"
"Yes, it is."
"Then, admit the truth. 'Cause I won't do it for you."
"Fine. This is my wrongdoing, and I apologise for the trouble I've caused. This was something that went wrong because I planned it without thinking it through. Shadow asked for advice, Sonic was gonna give it, and I took over with this thing I called an idea. I'm not asking for forgiveness, 'cause it's not looking like I'm gonna get it. I've caused you, Shadow, and Sonic a lot of damage. And my apologies for my inability to take the blame very well." Amy says her words, admitting the whole truth
Sapphire soon returns Sonic's mouth to the way it was before.
"Don't forget Tails. He got roped into all of this, out of being our friend. I'll make my apologies as well." Sonic reminds and says
"You don't need to apologise, Sonic. You've not done anything to hurt me, or anyone else." Tails says, prompting the trio to turn to him
"But you're meant to be a friend, not a therapist." Amy says, surprised by Tails' words
"Friends are always there for each other. That's why the first ones I went to, were Sapphire and Shadow, because I knew that they needed someone that wasn't already at someone else's throat, like you both were earlier."
"But that doesn't mean that you don't say your apologies, Amy." Sapphire says, ensuring that Amy doesn't take her chance to escape
Amy is soon calm, after her admission to Sapphire and brings up her courage. Tails joins the trio, waiting for Amy's words.
"Sorry for getting you involved, Tails. I was meant to help Shadow earlier. Instead, I caused more trouble than I intended. Then, my trouble got you roped in as well." Amy says her apologies
"It's fine, I'll forgive you; on this one occasion. But all I know is that Shadow and Sapphire are gonna be harder to gain their forgiveness and trust; since those two were the main ones involved." Tails forgives and informs
"Tails is right. Since I'm still grieving over my mother, all of this hasn't helped me very much. I don't know how Shadow reacted earlier, but it's not looking like his decision is going to be made very fast." Sapphire says, making her point
As for Shadow, he's at home almost asleep and unaware of what's going on with Sapphire. Back to Sapphire, she decides to turn in for the night, with one decision to make, whether to give Amy any form of forgiveness. As for Tails, Sonic and Amy, they decide to all go their separate ways and turn in as well.
Morning comes, and Shadow is the first to wake up. He looks to Sapphire's sleeping body.
'She means everything to me. But I can't do anything to prove it.' Shadow thinks to himself
Sapphire soon begins to awaken, moving. Shadow soon freezes, not knowing whether to stay or leave.
"Good morning, Shadow." Sapphire says, now half awake
"Good morning." Shadow responds, keeping his responses short
Sapphire soon sits up, concerned for Shadow's emotions.
"Shadow, are you alright?" Sapphire asks, expressing her concern
"I want to show you how much you meant to me. That's all I intend." Shadow admits
"I know you do. But you don't need to. The joint battle in the city, and the time we have together are enough. We're both adrenaline junkies, and like similar things. One thing that's the same is we like keeping others out of danger."
"Yes, that's true about the adrenaline thing. But can I ask something?"
"Sure. What's needed?" Sapphire asks, now beginning to worry about Shadow
"Am I doing enough for you?"
"Yes, of course you are. You're not being anything other than yourself. That's all I ask for. Plus, I love you for being yourself, and nothing else. You're loyal and a great individual to be around. I can't deny that."
"But, what about what Sonic and Amy have? Will we end up the same?"
"No, our love is unique to us, and theirs is unique to them. Like they say, no two snowflakes are the same; not that you're meant to know what that means. It's the same for romances. No two are the same as each other."
"So, we're meant to be different?"
"Well, it would be a very boring place if we were all the same as each other."
"Thank you, for the reassurance. It means a lot."
"You're welcome. I'll always be here if you need it. Oh, another thing."
"What do you have to say?" Shadow asks, with growing concerns
Sapphire is soon nervous of what to say next. She soon calms her nerves. The pair are fully awake at this point.
"Amy has apologised to me, for her wrongdoing, and to Tails for dragging him into it." Sapphire informs, becoming nervous again
"Was this yesterday?" Shadow asks
"Yes, it was last night. You were probably already asleep, and I was out dealing with Sonic and Amy. This was all after I returned from seeing my father and friend."
"Did she say that she was asking for forgiveness?"
"Amy did say that she's not asking for it, thanks to the damage she admitted to causing us, Sonic and Tails."
"I'm still deciding on whether to forgive her."
"I've gathered as much. Tails did clarify to Amy that we're going to be harder to gain the forgiveness, since we were the ones that she was aiming at. But he's forgiven her though."
"Right, I've got that in mind. What about Sonic?"
"Personally, I don't know. I mean, Amy was blaming Sonic for her wrongdoing."
"Considering the fact that they're dating, Sonic would normally give his forgiveness first."
"But, given the situation getting it as soon as two seconds after admission, isn't looking likely."
Sapphire and Shadow soon get to talking about something else. As for Sonic and Amy, they're together trying to find things to talk about. Sonic hasn't forgiven Amy, yet.
"So, what do you wanna talk about?" Amy asks, feeling awkward
"About your admission and apology last night. I've done some thinking and have come to a realisation." Sonic answers
"And that's what?"
"I've realised that I'm unable to forgive you for your actions. I've forgotten the fact that you've blamed me for your wrongdoing. But I can't forgive you for what you've done. Also, I don't think I'll be able to move on from it; or at least, not very fast. If this upsets you, I apologise." Sonic announces
Amy is soon left speechless, having expected forgiveness from Sonic. Soon, the pair start getting at each other's throats, again. As for Sapphire and Shadow, they continue their conversation, unaware of the recent turn of events on Sonic and Amy's side.
"So, are you feeling better now?" Sapphire asks, keeping the happier tone alive
"Yes, I am. Thank you, Sapphire. How are you getting on?" Shadow answers and asks
"I feel as though I've come to terms with my mother not being here. As for the memories, all I need to do is see them as a positive, instead of a negative. Thanks for being there when I've needed it. It helps having you there when there isn't anyone else."
"It's all good. That's what love is about, being there in the hard times and in the darkest hours. I've never been there for anyone before, having never known what that meant. Now that I know what it means, it feels... nice, less isolated."
"So, before we met and eventually got together, you were isolated; with nearly no friends?"
"Yes, since they remember when I tried working for a human, they're enemies with. Since then, things have changed, and the others look like they want to talk."
"That's because you've saved their lives. I don't know whether you've done it before, but this most recent rescue, seems to have made you more favourable."
"That makes sense."
Soon, Sapphire hears Sonic and Amy at each other's throats, again. She soon goes out to see what the trouble is. She approaches the pair and instantly realises that this is going to take a large chunk of her time.
'This is gonna be a long discussion...' Sapphire mumbles her thoughts to herself
After at least a few hours, night falls. Sonic and Amy decide to call it quits on their relationship before any more altercations take place. Soon after, they part ways and stay that way; what seems like permanently. Sapphire soon returns home, tired and wanting to sleep; to also notice that Shadow isn't inside the home.
'Now, where could he be? Not to sound obsessive; do I sound obsessive?' Sapphire thinks to herself
Sapphire goes outside, to find Shadow practicing his gun, with magic. Sapphire decides join Shadow; to notice a territory-sensitive ring around Shadow. She tries to avoid touching this ring, to no avail and Shadow is instantly alerted.
"Hello, there. Who's that?" Shadow greets and asks
"It's Sapphire. I'm back from dealing with... those two." Sapphire answers, as Shadow turns to her
Shadow soon stops what he's doing and tries bringing the field down, to no avail.
"Is everything alright? You've got some sort of field up." Sapphire asks and points out
"I see that… wait. When did that show up?!" Shadow says and asks, getting worried
"I don't know. All I did was return and notice that thing around you. Hold on, I might have something that'll help get that barrier down."
Sapphire soon uses a spell she learned as a youth to bring down Shadow's field, by half. Sapphire quickly realises that the field is being held up by something.
"I've managed to get some of the field down, but the rest, you'll have to do it alone. Unless is there something bothering you?" Sapphire informs and asks
"If you mean anything apart from this field, no there isn't." Shadow says this, causing his hands to sting and field to reform
"Your magic is saying otherwise. You've got something to admit, and I can tell that. Come to me when you can speak your words. I'll be with the others."
As Sapphire leaves to see the others, she realises that Shadow is tense and goes back to Shadow. Sapphire soon uses a different spell to bring down Shadow's field, temporarily.
"What are you doing?" Shadow asks, with nervousness in his voice
"I'm coming to you, rather than going to the others. Because I know that you've got something to admit but are nervous to do it." Sapphire says, blowing Shadow's cover
"How did you...?"
"I know you, inside out and feel in a similar way. So, I understand completely."
"You're right. I've got something to admit. But can't word it."
"I don't think you need to. I think I've worked it out. Come closer, and you'll find out."
Shadow, reluctantly, comes closer to Sapphire; for her to hug him and this brings his field down. Realising that it's attention and affection that he wants, Shadow pulls away from Sapphire and goes back to his home. As for Sapphire, she realises what Shadow wants, but he doesn't know how to word it. This puts Sapphire on a pedestal, she quickly realises this and follows Shadow to his home.
As for Amy, she's dealing with her newfound single life and is miserable. Unknown to her, Tails has noticed this and is listening for her voice.
'Why does this feel so… miserable and dull?' Amy thinks to herself
"Hey, there Amy." Tails greets, making Amy turn her head
"Hello, Tails. What are you doing here? Can't you see that I'm miserable?" Amy greets and asks
"I know that, and you're trying to hold it in. I think we've all had enough of others holding things in."
"And your point is?"
"My point is you need to let out your misery somehow. Talk to someone, cry it out. Do something that'll help you move on from the misery."
"Do something… what? I've never been miserable before."
"No, but you've been a bit of a hot-head before and you get over that fine."
"This. Is. Different."
"This is to do with splitting with Sonic, isn't it?"
"How'd you guess?"
"You're avoiding the problem instead of facing it; that's not healthy."
"Answer me this, what is the point of even trying to get over the misery?"
"You'll be happier, and all I can do, as your friend, is advise you on what to do. You need to talk this out with someone else that doesn't mind being a counsellor-type figure."
"How does Sapphire take that kind of role?"
"Anyone, excluding Sapphire. She's got Shadow to work with and has other things to upkeep."
"Like what?"
"Upkeeping her relationship with her father, before she can no longer do that and keeping things afloat with any other possible human relationships."
"So, who can I talk to then?"
"If I were on your list of counsellor figures, I'd automatically back down. But I'm willing let you do the talking, to help you get through this."
"I'm not saying that you're a counsellor figure. But you do seem to know what to do when it comes to Shadow and Sapphire."
"They're friends and all I do is advise and talk when they need it. That's all."
After at least a few hours talking and finding common ground, Amy is happier than earlier on and seemingly comfortable in Tails' company. Tails notices Amy's happiness and is happy as a result.
"You're happier, Amy." Tails says, thinking of what to say next
"Yes, you could say that. I wouldn't say I'm over Sonic yet. But I'm getting there. Thanks for the chat. It helped a lot." Amy responds
"It's all good. I'll leave you alone for now."
"Alright. See you soon, Tails."
"Goodbye for now, Amy."
Tails leaves Amy and goes back to his home. As for Shadow and Sapphire, they're midway through an argument, of which came out of the blue. After at least a couple of hours, their argument dies down and they spend time together, in romantic silence. Shadow and Sapphire soon begin to talk again.
"So, what was up earlier then?" Sapphire asks, being careful of her next words
"Haven't you worked out what I want yet?" Shadow asks
"Yes, but I want to hear you say it. Take your time."
Shadow composes himself for his admission.
"I want attention and affection, but I don't know how to say it in a better way." Shadow admits, feeling relieved
"My only question, and this is the last one. How come you didn't say anything before?" Sapphire says and asks
"I was afraid to admit it, just to put it out there."
"It's all good. Remember, admitting the truth always takes weight off your shoulders and makes social situations easier to bear, most of the time."
"I wish I knew that sooner."
"I didn't know that until just after I turned thirteen. So, I get your perspective."
"Thanks for listening. I appreciate it."
"You're welcome, anytime. It's within my duty to be there and advise when it's needed."
After this, the two lovers spend more time in silence before they go to sleep. Morning comes and Sapphire is the first to awaken. She decides to go out and look over the waters and begins to reminisce about her times as a young girl, playing with her mother and having wonderful birthdays with both her mother and father gathered around her. Soon, a tear comes out and she wipes it away. Sapphire soon goes to the nearest tree and uses her magic to get to the top.
As for Shadow, he awakens to find Sapphire absent. He tries to reach her on his gauntlet, for the call to be rejected. With no-one else awake, Shadow decides to look around for Sapphire. Soon after, Tails wakes up and goes out, to notice Shadow looking around.
"Hey, Shadow. You alright?" Tails greets and asks
"I'm fine. Have you seen Sapphire?" Shadow asks
"No, I've just come out."
"Okay, thanks."
"It's all good. I'll see you around."
Tails walks off and Shadow continues looking for Sapphire, to notice a blue aura on a treetop. He gets closer and realises that Sapphire has water surrounding her. Shadow walks to the front of the tree and waits. After a few hours, Sapphire comes down from the tree and goes back to the waters, unaware that Shadow is close behind.
Shadow soon finds a hiding place and watches from a distance. He sees Sapphire using her magic to make water fly around her. The water soon aims for Shadow's direction and splashes him in the face. Sapphire notices and goes to Shadow.
"Shadow, are you alright?" Sapphire asks
"I'm all good." Shadow responds, beginning to have an idea
"Have you got something in mind?"
Shadow soon uses his magic to throw water in Sapphire's face.
"How dare you; I'll get you back for that!" Sapphire says
"That's if you can get me first!" Shadow responds
Soon, the pair are chasing each other, throwing water at each other. After a couple of hours of water fighting, the pair stop and get closer to one another.
"You look happier than earlier." Shadow says
"Definitely. Are you?" Sapphire responds
"Could say that."
"That's all good then. Do you wanna join me with the others?"
"Yeah, why not."
Sapphire and Shadow go to join the others. Tails joins and notices the pair, covered in water.
"You two look like you've had fun." Tails says
"Yep, that's true, for me at least. I don't know about Shadow, though." I say, trying to tease, to no avail
"I had fun; I just don't show it." Shadow responds
"That's Shadow for you. Doesn't react to very much."
"Where's Amy?"
"I don't know. I saw her go that way." Sonic responds, pointing towards the city
"I'll find her, don't stress." Shadow responds
Shadow goes to look for Amy, to find her on the outskirts of their homeland. He walks closer to Amy, for her to turn to his direction.
"Hey." Shadow greets
"Hey." Amy responds
"Are you alright?"
"Yep, all good. I just need space. That's all."
"Fair enough, if that's the case."
Shadow goes back to the others, for Amy to keep her distance. As for Sapphire, she's in her human form, inside a cave. Oblivious to the wings of raven feathers on her back. She walks out to feel a breeze blowing her forwards, pushing her wings forward.
'These are new. Better try them out.' Sapphire thinks to herself
Sapphire is soon puzzled on how to use them. Her wings soon start flapping on their own, lifting her above ground. Sapphire tries flying in a straight line, to continuously crash into trees as she flies. She soon stops flying, breathes and tries again. After a few hours, her flying improves, and she lands to rest. Sapphire soon hears footsteps and notices Shadow and Tails heading in her direction. She speeds back into the cave, hiding.
"Did you hear something whizz by just now?" Tails asks
"Yes, but what or who?" Shadow responds
They soon head in Sapphire's direction. Sapphire decides to use a spell she learned as a child, invisibility. She whispers the words, blends into her surroundings, and flies further into the cave. After, Shadow goes into the cave to find Sapphire's footprints in the space she stood.
"Sapphire's here." Shadow says
"How do you know?" Tails asks
"The footprints are from Sapphire's shoes."
"I hear something further in there."
"It's feathered wings. Follow me."
Shadow and Tails follow the sound of Sapphire's feathered wings, to reach a series of entrances. Sapphire quickly zooms from one entrance to another; causing Shadow and Tails to turn around.
"Sapphire, come out. I know it's you." Shadow says
Sapphire quickly zooms for the cave entrance, narrowly avoiding Shadow and Tails. She soon flies to the top of the cave and rids her disguise, ensuring to not get caught. Shadow and Tails run out of the cave, in search of Sapphire. Sapphire transforms back into her hedgehog form and climbs down from the cave top. She quickly discovers that her wings only appear when she's in her human form.
"Hey, guys. Lookin' for me?" Sapphire says, causing Shadow and Tails to turn
"Hey, weren't you in that cave a minute ago?" Tails asks
"I don't think so. Why?"
"We found your shoeprints on the sand inside the cave entrance and heard a pair of feathered wings."
"You must've been seeing and hearing things. I don't know what you're talking about."
Sapphire speeds off to the outskirts of her homeland; for her to find a feather in her quills.
'This must be from my wings. Wait, what's happening?' Sapphire thinks to herself
Sapphire soon turns back into her human form. As this happens, Shadow shows up.
"So, that's what you're hiding." Shadow says, causing Sapphire to turn
"Yeah, now the secret's out. Wings of a raven, feathers getting in my quills. Anything else?" Sapphire responds
"No, nothing else. Apart from, I like it."
"Gee, thanks. I'm trying to stay in my hedgehog form here."
"It seems to have something to do with taking the feather you're holding out of your quills."
"You could be right. Hold on..."
Sapphire clicks her fingers to turn into her hedgehog form; ensuring to leave the feather in her quills.
"Thanks, I appreciate it." Sapphire says, hugging Shadow
"It's all good. Let's head back."
Hand in hand, Shadow, and Sapphire head back to their homeland, to discover everyone gathered around the place that they'd battled. Bewildered, Sapphire lets go of Shadow's hand and goes to see what the trouble is.
"Hey, what's going on?" Sapphire asks
"It's Amy. She's changing colour and keeps hiding away." Blaze responds
"That's weird. Where's Amy?"
"She went to Shadow's place, looking for you. Realising that you weren't there, she ran into the city somewhere."
"I think she's searching for my father's place, where I used to live."
"I think you're the better one to search for Amy, Sapphire. You know the city better than any of us." Sonic says, hiding something
"Right, I'll look for Amy. Sonic, we're talking when I return."
Sapphire turns into her human form and goes to the city to search for Amy. She quickly realises that she doesn't have her wings and decides to search on foot. Sapphire quickly reaches the city and goes to her father's place.
"Hey, father." Sapphire greets
"Hello, what should I call you?" Sapphire's father greets and asks
"Just call me Sapphire. No time to talk, I need your help."
"Yep, what's needed?"
"I'm looking for a friend from my home. Her name's Amy, she's a pink hedgehog."
"I saw a pink hedgehog heading towards the Catholic cathedral. Is that the one you're on about?" Felicity responds and asks
"Yes, is it wise to be heading there?"
"No, it's not. People have been reporting monsters popping up and taking their relatives. You'd better go and catch up with your friend before she gets there. It's dangerous."
"I'm going now. Thanks for the intel."
"You're welcome. See you again soon."
"Goodbye for now, you two."
As for Amy, she's almost at the cathedral as she hears a groaning sound. Ignoring this, she goes in, still searching for Sapphire.
"Sapphire, are you in here?" Amy asks
The groaning noise starts to become more agitated than before, and Amy notices. As for Sapphire, she gets to the cathedral and hears an agitated groaning sound.
"This. Isn't. Good." Sapphire says to herself
There's soon a scream from inside the cathedral, it's Amy. Sapphire races inside to find Amy chained to one of the cathedral's five magic pillars. Sapphire recognises the pillars; The Pillars of the Five Elements and Amy holds one of those elements, love.
'What I need, is more intel about those pillars.' Sapphire thinks
Sapphire decides to walk out of the room and reach her father.
"Hey, Sapphie, what's the issue?" Sapphire's father greets and asks
"My name isn't Sapphie. Anyway, there are The Pillars of the Five Elements where Amy is being kept as a prisoner. Do you have any information about them?" Sapphire responds.
"Click your fingers and read the scroll you receive, carefully."
Sapphire clicks her fingers for a scroll to appear.
"That scroll should have all the information you need about those pillars. If not, get hold of me again and I'll send you the book." Sapphire's father says
"Thanks, father. I appreciate it." Sapphire says her thanks.
Communications are quickly cut, and Sapphire reads the scroll; to discover that she needs others that represent the Pillars' five elements, including a hidden element. After her reading and pondering, she gets to rescuing Amy. Sapphire finds cuffs on Amy's wrists and uses magic to unlock and remove them.
"Thank you, Sapphire." Amy says
"You're welcome. What were you doing here?" Sapphire responds and asks
"I was looking for you, then that monster up there cuffed me to the pillar."
"Right, that's because you represent the element that the pillar shows."
"That would be...?"
"Love. The other elements we need are Water, Fire, Air and Earth. There's also a hidden element."
"A hidden element?"
"Yes, but I don't know what it is. The scroll doesn't say."
"All I know is that you could be the Air element bearer."
"And why would that be?"
"The wings on your back."
"You mean, these wings of a raven?"
"Yes, I mean those. Get hold of the others, I'll go back to the pillar."
Sapphire gets hold of Shadow.
"Hey, what's the issue?" Shadow asks
"I need you, Sonic, Knuckles and Tails at the Catholic cathedral in the city. No time to explain." Sapphire responds
"Alright, we're on our way." Sonic says
Bewildered by how Sonic heard the conversation, Sapphire cuts communications. As for Shadow, Sonic, Knuckles and Tails, they reach the city.
"Follow me." Shadow instructs
The group head to the Catholic cathedral, to find a monster hovering around the pillars.
"We're here." Sonic says
"Brilliant. You all see those five pillars over there?" Sapphire responds and asks
"Yeah, what are they?" Tails asks
"They are The Pillars of the Five Elements."
"That means..." Knuckles says
"For centuries, there have been five elements, plus a hidden element, tied to these five pillars inside the cathedral. These pillars were designed to keep order over the city. Just recently, these pillars have lost the ability to provide their own power and now need individuals that represent those five elements to provide their power."
"These elements are...?" Shadow asks
"Love, Water, Earth, Air and Fire. That's why I've called you all here."
"What about me?"
"I've got a feeling that you're connected to the hidden element, Shadow. Everyone, look at this scroll I've got."
Sapphire shows the others the scroll, for them to become confused.
"What are those symbols on the pillars?" Sonic asks
"They're the symbols that represent the elements. The water droplet is Water, the ember is Fire and so on. Right team, I need you to listen up. I need all of you to look at your coat colours and find the elements that correspond."
With that, Tails leads by going to the Earth pillar. Then, Knuckles and Sonic go to their corresponding pillars. Sapphire goes to the Air pillar. Soon, different auras of magic come out of the group of five and make a plaque appear.
"Five elements, connected with thee. Darkness of another, of requirement for thee." Sapphire reads
"What's that mean?" Amy asks
"Shadow, I hate to say this, but the element you represent is needed here."
"That would be..."
"The Dark element. That's the element you represent."
"I'll get in the middle."
Shadow gets in the middle of the five pillars; for the group to discover a reaction occurring. Soon, a hologram of Felicity shows above them.
"Everyone, with pillars and in the middle, you'll each receive a scroll that contains the words you need to say as one. Click your fingers." The hologram instructs
The group of five each receive a scroll. The words read: 'Water of a river, Fire of magma, Earth of the ground, Air of breathing and Love from the heart. Unite as one and reveal the hidden.'
Shadow receives a separate scroll. It reads: 'Elements united, power regained. Darkness work along with your allies.'
"Water of a river, Fire of magma, Earth of the ground, Air of breathing and Love from the heart. Unite as one and reveal the hidden." The group recite
There are soon auras around the group. Shadow notices his cue to recite.
"Elements united, power regained. Darkness work along with your allies." Shadow recites
There's soon a wisp coming from Shadow's body. Everyone is soon lifted in the air and magic starts coming out of their hands.
"Now, Pillar Elementals, connect your hands together." The hologram instructs
The group of five soon connect their hands and the hologram disappears. Shadow clicks his fingers for everyone to receive a scroll. The words read: 'Powers of Elements, powers of Darkness. Come together, do the bidding.'
"Powers of Elements, powers of Darkness. Come together, do the bidding." Everyone recites
Soon, the combined powers do all the work, eliminating the monsters, bringing the missing people home and returning the city back to its pre-battle state. The group soon lands on the ground, all standing; apart from Shadow, who's struggling on his feet.
"Is everyone alright?" Sapphire asks
"We are. I'm not sure about Shadow, though." Amy responds
Sapphire notices Shadow about to collapse and races to his aid.
"Shadow, are you alright?" Sapphire asks, checking for injuries
"I'll be fine, don't worry." Shadow responds, moving his hand to Sapphire's
Shadow quickly recuperates and is standing firmly on both feet. The group soon leave the cathedral and notice the city bustling once more. Sapphire soon has a tear streaming down her cheek. Shadow notices.
"Are you alright?" Shadow asks
"It's nothing. I'm just wondering where Felicity is." Sapphire responds
Sapphire soon gets hold of her father.
"Hello, Sapphire. What's the trouble?" Sapphire's father asks
"Could you come to the cathedral and take my friends to your place? I need to find Felicity." Sapphire responds
"Sure thing. I'll be there shortly."
"Thank you, father."
Communications are quickly cut, and Sapphire goes to find Felicity. Sapphire's father arrives to take Shadow and the crew to Sapphire's former home. Sapphire looks around the city, calling for Felicity.
'Oh, where is she?' Sapphire thinks
Sapphire soon uses a special spell to call for Felicity, to spot a beam of light in the alleyway behind her former home and races to it. Sapphire finds Felicity, weak and on the ground.
"Felicity, are you alright?" Sapphire asks
"No, I'm dying. Don't... try any magic, it won't work..." Felicity responds
"What happened?"
"I went out to protect your father's home and got attacked by one of those monsters. The..."
Sapphire checks Felicity's chest; to discover a blow to Felicity's heart.
"The monster attacked you in the heart."
"Yes, another thing... The magic that I was... given, was for protecting the city. It's not made me immortal. Your genetic make-up has made you immortal, though. Just... just..."
"Just what?"
"Protect your father, friends. Keep living where you currently reside. Final word... Goodbye..."
Felicity says her final words and lays on the floor, motionless. Sapphire begins crying, for Felicity and then goes inside her father's home.
"Hey, are you okay?" Amy asks
"I'm fine. I just need time alone, that's all." Sapphire responds
"Go upstairs and get your alone time there." Sapphire's father recommends
"Okay, father..."
Sapphire quickly goes upstairs to the bedroom she used to sleep in and looks around the room viewing the memories of Felicity and her friendship. Sapphire picks up a photo of when the two friends were in kindergarten, sitting on a bench and having the time of their lives, just sitting there, next to each other.
As for the others, they're trying to get to Sapphire. Shadow waits for his moment and uses a Chaos Emerald to travel to Sapphire.
"Hey, Sapphire." Shadow greets
"Oh, hey Shadow." Sapphire responds, quickly turning silent
Shadow goes to Sapphire and notices the photo in her hand.
"Is that you and Felicity?" Shadow asks
"Yes, when we were small and in kindergarten. We were the best of friends and stayed that way for a long time. When times were tough, she was there the moment she knew something was wrong. Now, I'll never get to see or speak to her again." Sapphire responds, shedding a tear or two
"What happened?"
"She was protecting my father's home and got attacked in the heart by a monster in the process. Therefore, she's passed from her injuries."
"Oh."
"She was nice, friendly and would've never let anyone down."
Shadow puts his arm around Sapphire, struggling to find something else to say.
"Have you ever lost anyone?" Sapphire asks
"I've lost a friend before now. A long time ago." Shadow responds
"I'm not gonna ask, it's not my place to do so."
"Fair enough. Do you want me to leave?"
"No, please stay. I need someone who understands."
Shadow and Sapphire sit in silence, mourning both Felicity and Shadow's late friend. After a few hours, Shadow and Sapphire begin talking again.
"I'm gonna join the others. See you when you're ready." Shadow says
"Wait a minute." Sapphire responds
"What's needed?"
"Thanks, for the time. I'll return the favour when I'm ready."
"Okay."
Shadow approaches Sapphire and gives her a hug, for comfort. He then lets go and uses his Chaos Emerald to return to the others.
"Hey, where did you go?" Tails asks
"Who knows where Shadow went. We don't have to know." Sonic responds
After an hour, Sapphire goes downstairs and joins the others.
"I think we should be heading home." Sonic says
"Alright. I'll let you out and see you again soon." Sapphire's father says
"Goodbye for now, father and thanks for the hospitality." Sapphire says
"Anytime. Goodbye for now."
The group leaves for home and Sapphire speeds ahead to the cave. Sapphire flies into the cave and goes into the same entrance as before. She then uses her invisibility spell to hide away from the others when they return.
"What's with Sapphire?" Knuckles asks
"She looks like she's grieving, again." Sonic responds
"I'd suggest not talking about Sapphire behind her back. She's not in the best of moods." Shadow says, protecting Sapphire
"Sounds like someone's protecting her. Are you alright, Shadow?" Amy jokes, causing Knuckles to react
"Wouldn't you do the same if you were dating someone?" Knuckles responds, agitated
Without any hesitation, Shadow walks off to his home and Tails goes to search for Sapphire; to hear Sapphire's wings from the cave. Tails walks in and attempts to find the direction the sound is coming from. As for Sapphire, she hears footsteps.
"Sapphire? Are you in here?" Tails asks
Sapphire lands, with a thud.
"Hello?" Tails asks
Sapphire soon gets out of her disguise and walks out to Tails.
"I'm here. What's needed?" Sapphire responds and asks
"Are you okay? You're not yourself." Tails responds
"Not really. I'm grieving over Felicity."
"Was she your friend?"
"Best friend, yes. She died from a monster attack."
"Oh, no. Is Shadow aware?"
"Yes, I told him first. I'm trying to spend some time alone to get my thoughts together."
"I get you. I'll leave you alone."
"Thanks Tails, I appreciate it."
"No worries. See you around."
Tails goes back to the others and Sapphire goes back to her hiding place. As for Shadow, he's at his home, resting from earlier on. After a few hours, Sapphire decides to come out of hiding and night has fallen. She gets back into her disguise and speeds to Shadow's home. Shadow quickly wakes up and hears footsteps.
"Who's there?" Shadow asks
Sapphire gets out of her disguise.
"Hey, it's me." Sapphire responds
"Oh, it's you. How are you doing?"
"Just fine, now. Why'd you ask?"
"You looked rather stressed earlier."
"I was but, that's in the past. I'd rather focus on moving forward."
"Are you sure?"
Sapphire sighs.
"Alright, I wanted more time on my own to get my thoughts together and hid in the cave."
"Did anyone find you?"
"Tails did. But we had a brief chat and he left me alone."
"Is this because of the grief?"
"You could say that. Anyway, I'll leave you alone. Bye for now."
Sapphire leaves to join the others; to discover that Amy is still changing colours. Sapphire pulls Amy out of the group for a chat.
"Hey, what gives?" Amy asks
"You're still changing colours. All I know is that you're meant to be pink." Sapphire points out
"Wait, I'm changing colours?"
"Yes, you're changing colours. How come you didn't notice?"
"I don't know. Wait, where's this happening?"
"On your quills, mainly and it's spreading."
Amy runs to the waters and examines her quills. Amy quickly rushes home, causing the others to look towards Sapphire.
"What?" Sapphire asks
"You know what could happen next, right?" Sonic asks
"No, is it bad?"
"This could be hammer hour. Not good."
"Why?"
"She does that when she's mad at someone or something."
"Oh, sorry about that."
"What happened?" Tails asks
"I just told Amy that she's changing colours, still."
"I know that she'll be upset. But she probably won't get the hammer out."
"Right, what should I do?"
"I don't know."
Sapphire decides to see Amy.
"Hey, Amy." Sapphire greets
"Hey, Sapphire." Amy greets
"Sorry about just then. I thought you already knew about it."
"It's good, no-one told me."
"I should've guessed before I told you."
"I'll be back with the others. Bye for now."
"See you around, Amy."
Amy goes back to the others and Sapphire goes to the cave. Sapphire goes into the cave and walks around, undisguised.
'Walking around here, so tranquil...' Sapphire thinks, realising the gap in her heart
Soon, tears stream down Sapphire's face, before she wipes them away. She quickly turns to hear footsteps approaching her.
"Who's there?" Sapphire asks
Sapphire soon hears someone behind her. Shadow soon appears behind Sapphire.
"Hello, Sapphire." Shadow greets, for Sapphire to turn
"Oh, hey Shadow. What are you doing here?" Sapphire responds
"I had a guess that you'd be in here."
Sapphire soon returns to her hedgehog self.
"I only came in here for some tranquillity. That's all."
"Are you sure?"
"You know why I'm here. Why are you here?"
"I heard about what you told Amy."
"You did?"
"Yep, Tails came and gave me intel."
Sapphire is quickly silent and uneasy. Shadow notices and makes his move.
"Do you wanna stay with me tonight?"
"Yes, that would be appreciated. Thank you."
Shadow and Sapphire go back to the home they share. As for Sonic, he's looking around for Amy.
"Hey, Tails. You seen Amy?" Sonic asks
"She was at home earlier, don't know about now though." Tails responds
"Thanks."
"You're welcome."
Sonic goes to Amy's place, to discover Amy looking for something.
"Hey, Amy." Sonic greets
"Hey, Sonic. What are you doing here?" Amy responds
"Just coming to see how you are."
"I'm just fine, Sonic."
Amy soon storms out, avoiding Sonic.
"Wait."
"What? We're through. You've said it yourself."
Sonic soon becomes silent. Amy continues walking away from Sonic, to start losing her balance. Sonic speeds to her aid, before she falls to the ground.
"You're not 'just fine'. Something's up." Sonic says
"I don't know what's up. Anyway, leave me I'll manage." Amy responds
Sonic soon notices Amy's quills returning to their original colour.
"What is it?" Amy asks
"Your quills."
Amy soon goes to the waters and notices her quills returning to their original colour.
"Wait, they're still pink underneath?" Amy asks
"Yep, that's the case." Sonic responds
Amy soon storms to her home and fetches her hammer. Sonic realises Amy's agitation and follows. As for Shadow and Sapphire, they're at home, unaware of Amy.
"Are you alright now?" Shadow asks
"Yes, I'm better now. Thanks." Sapphire responds
"Don't mention it."
Sapphire soon looks Shadow in the eyes and examines them.
"What are you doing?" Shadow asks, in bewilderment
"Just, admiring your eyes, that's all." Sapphire says, staying subtle
"Maybe, I should do the same."
"You already are... and I like it."
"You do?"
"Mm-hm. It's quite nice."
Shadow and Sapphire are soon in silence, hand in hand. Then, Amy storms in and starts bashing her hammer around.
"Hey, what are you doing?!" Sapphire asks
"You tell me what you're doing, and I'll explain!" Amy bursts, agitated
"I've no idea what you're talking about. Now, stop bashing around!"
"Don't lie to me! You're using magic on me!"
"Now, why would I do that to a friend?! Well?!"
"My quills are changing colour, and you've got somethin' to do with it!"
"No, I haven't! Get outta here!"
Amy rushes out, still arguing with Sapphire as she follows. Shadow notices flames around Sapphire's feet and follows with caution. Sonic soon notices the same thing and gets to Amy's side. Sapphire and Amy are quickly in a circle of flames, about to fight.
Shadow and Sonic know that this will turn nasty; but they can't do anything. Sapphire and Amy start fighting, and hours pass. Sapphire takes a wrong turn and falls over. Amy takes her chance to hit Sapphire on the hand with her hammer.
Sapphire tries getting up, getting weaker with each attempt. Sapphire's circle of flames slowly lowers, and she falls unconscious on the ground. Shadow rushes to Sapphire's aid and creates a force field around her.
"Amy, stop what you're doing!" Shadow shouts
"Why are you protecting her?! She's casting magic over me!" Amy responds
"How can Sapphire be doing anything?! She's been with me!"
"Get out of my way!"
"Not if you're to attack Sapphire again!"
Shadow soon uses magic to fight against Amy and protect himself. More hours pass, Amy misses Shadow and falls over. Shadow stays in one place, waiting for Amy's next move. Amy gets up and does nothing, for a brief period. Sapphire soon awakens and watches on. for Amy to make a successful attack on Shadow.
"Amy, step away from Shadow, now!" Sapphire shouts
Amy steps away from Shadow, stopping her attacks. Shadow lets down the force field, protecting Sapphire. Sonic steps in with caution. There is soon a bitter, agitated silence. Sapphire and Amy quickly separate. Shadow and Sonic soon look at each other, remembering their past rivalry.
"I'll see you around." Sonic says
Shadow waves goodbye and returns home, to discover that Sapphire isn't there. As for Sapphire, she turns into her human form, without wings, and races to her father's home. Sapphire knocks on the door, for her father to answer, tired as ever.
"What --- are you doing here? It's..." Sapphire's father asks
"Late, I know. I want to spend the night here, away from a certain friend." Sapphire responds, explaining the situation
"Sleep in your room then."
Sapphire goes up to her bedroom and goes to bed. As for Sonic, he's calming Amy down from the altercation.
"You need to calm down." Sonic says
"How can I?!" Amy responds, agitated
"Start by taking Sapphire's word for it. Besides, she'd never do something like that."
As for Shadow, he's quick to fall asleep. Oblivious to the next few days, everyone calls it a night.