Healing Hearts
Chapter Six

Robotropolis...
"So, let me see if I have this straight," Robotnik said. "You allowed a single Freedom Fighter to infiltrate my transport and then blow it up, and rescue a potentially valuable hostage, denying me a chance to trap the other Freedom Fighters, and costing me several Swat-Bots in the process, as well as my valuable time. Is that correct?"
Nack and Drago stood before Robotnik, both silent and simmering with anger and suffering bruised egos. They had finally arrived at Robotropolis, having to make the trip on foot. Upon arrival, they had been ushered in to see the Doctor, and now, they were beginning to regret returning here.
"Well, gentlemen," Robotnik prompted. "Nothing to say?" He glanced at Nack. "Nack, my boy. You assured me your plan would work. I don't like empty promises." He slammed both fists on the armrests of his chair, causing both mercenaries to jump in surprise. "And I don't like failure!"
"It wasn't our fault," Nack protested, stepping forward, only to be stopped by several Swat-Bots. "Whoever this guy was, he wasn't normal. You should have mentioned to us the Freedom Fighters had a new recruit."
Robotnik was silent, staring grimly at Nack. For a moment, the weasel feared he may have crossed the line.
"This new recruit," Robotnik spoke. "Was he human? With red hair? Armed with a sword?"
"Uh, yeah," Nack replied. So, Robotnik did know something about this mystery guy.
"Him again," Robotnik growled. "So, he is allied with the Freedom Fighters."
For a moment, the room was deathly quiet. For all his bravado, Nack felt nervous. He knew what Robotnik was capable of and what could possibly be awaiting him and Drago. He wondered if perhaps the Doctor was pondering what to do to them.
Suddenly, the door whisked open and in stepped Snively.
"Sir. I have some good news for you," he said.
Robotnik glanced up at him. "What is it, Snively?"
"Sir, I just received a transmission from our a little spy," Snively said. "It's up and running."
"Excellent," Robotnik said, a sinister smile crossing his face.
"And, our new bots will be completed ahead of schedule, sir," Snively continued. "Just in time to greet the Freedom Fighters the next time they pay us a visit."
"Oh-ho, this is wonderful news," Robotnik said. He turned his attention back to Nack and Drago. "Well, gentlemen, it's your lucky day. I'm in such a generous mood that I'll let you go....This time."
Nack swallowed, thanking his lucky stars for this turn of events.
"Pleasure doing business with you, Doc," he said.
He and Drago turned and hastily exited the room. After they were gone, Snively addressed his boss.
"I take it their mission failed, sir," he asked.
"A minor setback," Robotnik replied. "We'll have the Freedom Fighters soon enough, Snively."
Snively nodded, though inwardly, he knew Robotnik wasn't telling him everything. He had no doubt that the mystery warrior was involved in this latest fiasco. While he was tempted to ask, he held his tongue. No point spoiling the Doctor's good mood. If he was happy, then Snively didn't have to worry about any retribution from his anger.

Knothole Village...
Sally dried herself off while hanging her vest up to dry near the fireplace. Draping the towel over her shoulders, she gazed out the window, watching the rain. She glanced behind her at Austin. He had hung his coat and shirt up to dry. He stood bare chested, drying himself with a towel. Sally couldn't stop staring. He wasn't overly muscular, but rather lean and toned. He looked over her way and she hastily glanced back out the window, blushing. Had he noticed her staring?
A moment passed and then she cautiously peered back over. Austin had tossed the towel over a chair and had put on a dry shirt. She almost felt disappointed. Then she shook her head, trying to get her mind focused.
"Tea," Austin asked.
He had put on a kettle when they had arrived at his hut. Now it whistled, signaling it was ready.
"I'd love some," Sally said, sitting at the table.
Austin carried the kettle over and sat down. He poured some tea into a mug and passed it to Sally. She accepted it and drank, savoring the warmth of the beverage. Austin poured some for himself and drank it. For a moment, they sat there, quietly drinking. Finally, Austin set his cup down.
"So, I had something to tell you," he said.
"Of course," Sally said. "What were you going to tell me?"
"Well, I know this might seem hard to believe," he said. "But, like you, I'm also royalty."
"You are," Sally said.
"Yeah," Austin replied. "I was going to tell you at some point, but, I wasn't sure if you'd believe me. I didn't even know you were royalty until Tails told me."
"Sorry," Sally said. "After everything I've dealt with over the years, I hardly even consider my title as a Princess sometimes." She took a drink from her cup. "So, you're royalty. Something we have in common, among other things."
"You mean, like, taking on the roles of leadership at young ages," Austin prompted. "Or, fighting the forces of evil?"
Sally laughed. "Or that we both have red hair and blue eyes?"
"We have wonderful friends," Austin added. "You have the Freedom Fighters and I have my friends back home."
"Tell me about them," Sally said. "What are they like?"
"Well, let's see," Austin said. "There's my best friend Darren. He washed up on the shores of my kingdom years ago. His parents had been lost at sea. I found him and brought him to my parents. They adopted him and he became my brother. We're pretty close and he's a fun to hang out with. As it is, he's a descendent of the lost realm of Atlantis. That's a city spoken of in legends. It was said to have sunk into the sea long ago. Because of his heritage, Darren can survive underwater and he can control water."
"That's amazing," Sally said.
"Then there's my cousin, Amber," Austin continued. "She can be serious and often times strict. Kind of a no-nonsense person. But, she also has a soft side to her. She can be caring and kind, too. She's also one of the best sword fighters in our kingdom, second only to her mother."
"Even better then you," Sally asked.
"Oh, yes," Austin replied. "In fact, I learned some techniques from her. And I've never been able to beat her in a duel. But, despite that, I respect her." He drank from his cup and then continued. "Then there's Myotis."
"That's an unusual name," Sally commented.
"Well, the thing about Myotis," Austin said, "Is that he's a vampire."
"A...a vampire," Sally gasped. "You're friends with a vampire?"
"I know, it's surprising," Austin said. "I came across him one night. He was being attacked by vampire hunters. Seems they had been tracking him and ambushed him when he was trying to feed."
"They were able to subdue him," Sally asked. "I thought vampires were strong."
"Despite what people might say," Austin said, "Even vampires can be overpowered with the right means. Especially if they're weak from not feeding. Needless to say, I stumbled on to the hunters attempting to slay him. I don't know what prompted me, but I intervened. I sent those guys packing and saw to Myotis. He was surprised I helped him."
"Why did you," Sally asked.
"I'm not sure," Austin said. "It just...seemed like the right thing to do."
Sally nodded. She recalled two days ago when Austin had arrived at Robotropolis. She had felt the same way as Swat-Bots had surrounded him. She had felt that same compulsion to help him despite not knowing him. Because it had been the right thing to do.
"After Myotis recovered," Austin continued, "he told me he was indebted to me for saving him. Myotis has a strong sense of honor. He can seem cold and a little emotionless, but, he's loyal to a fault and honorable."
"They sound like great friends," Sally said.
"And then there was...Jill," Austin said.
"Austin," Sally said, placing her hand on his.
"No, it's alright," Austin said. "I can't avoid talking about her forever. I already told you a little bit about her. You know, she came from a very rich family. When I met her, neither of us knew we came from wealthy families. The first time I saw her, I felt drawn to her. We talked, introduced ourselves. Eventually we learned about each other's families. We both found it hilarious actually, neither one suspecting. But wealth didn't matter to me. I would have loved her even if she were poor."
"She really meant that much to you," Sally said.
"Sally," Austin said. "If it's not too much trouble, could you tell me about Sonic?"
Sally sighed. "Well, I suppose since we're opening up to each other, sure. For starters, Sonic was known as the fastest hedgehog on Mobius. He could run at amazing speed. He could be brash, even a little full of himself. Sometimes he never took things seriously. But, there was no denying his bravery. And he could be charming at times. He wasn't afraid of Robotnik. Every chance he got, he loved to taunt him."
"He sounded like a good guy," Austin said. "You don't have to tell me, but....how did he....?"
Sally sat in silence for a moment, tears in her eyes. Austin mentally berated himself. He shouldn't have asked her that. Now she was upset.
"I'm sorry," he said. "That was insensitive of me."
"No, it's alright," Sally said, wiping her eyes. "Like you, I can't avoid talking about it forever. It was one year ago, during a mission in Robotropolis. Sonic and I, along with Tails, Amy, and Bunnie, had infiltrated Robotnik's factories. Sonic had gone ahead to his position, while the rest of us took up our own positions. When we were all set, I gave the signal to go. That's when everything went wrong. Several hover-drones appeared above us. They had large screens attached to them. The screens came on and there was Robotnik. I thought for sure we were in trouble. But, the worst was yet to come. The screens changed and showed Sonic. He was trapped in the factory he had infiltrated. Robotnik had reinforced it with a durable metal alloy, making it impossible for Sonic to break out. Then, we saw the bombs in the building with him. Sonic saw them, too. The countdown was at 5 seconds. We'd never make it in time. Sonic realized that, too. He said, "Keep up the fight, everyone." Then he smiled and then....." Sally collapsed, sobbing.
Austin could guess what happened next. He felt a mixture of emotions: anger towards Robotnik for his cowardly tactics, sorrow for the brave Freedom Fighter who had perished, and, most of all, sadness for Sally, having lost her friend and love. Standing up, he walked over and embraced Sally in a comforting hug. Sally held on time, letting her tears flow. Austin stroked her head soothingly, feeling tears of his own, recalling his own loss. For a few moments, they remained like that, until finally, Sally pulled away, wiping her eyes.
"You alright," Austin asked.
"I'll be fine," Sally said. "Thank you." She took a deep breath, composing herself. "You know, I actually feel better. I haven't opened up like that with anyone."
"I know what you mean," Austin said. "I feel the same way. I guess both of us just needed someone to confide in."
He picked up his cup and poured more tea. Then he refilled Sally's cup and gave it to her.
"Here's to Jill and Sonic," he said, raising his cup. "Two of the greatest people we were fortunate enough to know."
"And to all the good times we had with them," Sally added.
They clinked their cups together and drank.
"Hey, the rain's stopped," Austin said.
Sally turned and glanced out the window. Sure enough, the rain had ceased and night had set in.
"I didn't realize how late it was," Sally said. She set her cup down. "I should probably go. I imagine you could use a good night's sleep after rescuing Cream."
"Yeah," Austin replied.
Sally grabbed her vest and slipped it on. Then she made her way to the door. She turned back and smiled at Austin.
"Thank you, Austin," she said. "I'm glad you're here. Good night."
She opened the door and left. Austin stood there, his heart beating fast at her parting words. She was glad he was here? Had she implied....?

Sally collapsed on her bed, sighing. She stared up at the ceiling, pondering her time with Austin. For the first time in a while, she actually felt at peace. She had felt so comfortable in his arms. And she had meant what she said. She truly was glad he was here. She couldn't deny it any longer. She was falling for him. But, could she follow through with it?

The next day...
Austin had risen early. He threw on his clothes and grabbed his sword, making his way outside. The sun was just rising, casting it's early morning light on the quiet village. Breathing in the damp morning air, Austin made his way towards a small clearing. Once there, he drew his sword and took up a fighting stance. Breathing deep, he began swinging and slashing. Stepping around to a different angle, he thrust and jabbed, wielding his sword with ease. He had neglected his training for a while, and now he was determined to get back into his routine. He kept his mind and thoughts focused as he continued. Still, thoughts of last night crept in. He paused and lowered his sword. He couldn't deny it. He cared for Sally. It just felt right being with her. He hadn't felt that way since Jill. There it was, plain and simple. Now, the question was, how to proceed?
"Morning."
Austin started. He had been so lost in his thoughts he hadn't noticed anyone approach. He turned and saw Sally walking towards him.
"Morning," he greeted. "I was just getting in some practice."
"I saw," she said. "You're really good with that sword."
He held the sword out towards her. "Want to give it a try?"
"Sure, why not," Sally replied.
She took hold of the handle. She gasped as the sword nearly made her lose her balance.
"Wow. It's pretty heavy," she said.
"It's like that at first," Austin said. "With practice, you build up your muscles and get used to the feel and weight." He moved around behind her and reached around, taking hold of the handle as well. "Here. Let me help."
Sally gulped as his arms encircled her and she blushed, her heart racing. Together, they lifted the blade up. Slowly, Austin guided her movements, helping her practice with the blade.
"See? Nothing to it," Austin said. He let go and stepped back. "With more practice, you could learn to wield a sword."
"Oh, I don't know if I'll ever do that," Sally said, handing him his sword. "I'm more skilled in hand-to-hand combat as opposed to weapons."
"Really," Austin said, sheathing the blade. "Care to show me?"
"Alright," Sally said, smiling. "But don't expect me to go easy on you."
"By all means," Austin said. He unbuckled the sword and placed it on the ground. He then removed his overcoat and tossed it aside. Taking up a stance, he faced Sally. "Ready when you are."
Sally moved forward, lashing out with a flurry of kicks. Austin dodged and intercepted the hits. Maintaining her momentum, Sally threw karate chops and some punches, seeking an opening in Austin's defenses.
"You're good," Austin complimented, sidestepping.
"Thanks," she said, throwing another hit his way. "But, aren't you going to strike back?"
"Sorry," Austin said. "But, given my strength, I think it's best I hold back. You've seen how strong I am."
"Fair enough," Sally replied.
She feinted left and when Austin moved to block, she swept her leg out, tripping him. Austin fell flat on his back. Sally stepped forward and placed her foot on his chest.
"Well played, Sally," Austin said, smiling up at her.
"Why, thank you," she said.
"But," Austin said. "You made a mistake."
Moving fast, he reached up and grabbed her leg and pulled her down. Sally yelped in surprise as Austin pulled her to the ground and pinned her.
"You let your guard down," he said. "You shouldn't have gotten in close like that."
"Duly noted," Sally sighed.
They stared into each other's eyes, their faces just inches apart. Austin leaned in slowly. Sally blushed, breathing fast, heart pounding. Her lips parted slightly as he moved in closer.
"Uh, am I interruptin' somethin'?"
Both Sally and Austin looked up and noticed Bunnie standing nearby. They scrambled to their feet, their faces bright red.
"We were, uh," Sally stammered.
"Nothing happened," Austin said.
"Just practicing," Sally provided.
"Right, practicing fighting moves," Austin agreed.
Bunnie stared at them, a ghost of a smile playing on her face.
"I see," she said. "Sorry ta interrupt. Sally-girl, I need your help with somethin'. Think you could spare a few minutes?"
"Sure thing, Bunnie," Sally replied. She turned to Austin. "Thanks for the sword lessons. I'll see you later."
She walked off, Bunnie following. Bunnie glanced back over shoulder at Austin and smiled knowingly. Austin watched them leave and then retrieved his sword and coat. His heart was still beating fast. He couldn't believe how close they had been! And they had almost...kissed.
"Wow," he said. "I've got it bad."
He needed to talk with someone about this. And he knew just who.

"So," Sally said, as they entered Bunnie's hut. "What did you need help with?"
Bunnie closed the door. She turned and faced her friend, grinning.
"Sorry, to mislead ya, Sally," Bunnie said. "But after what I saw, I just had to talk to you."
"Ah! Wha-What do you mean," Sally stammered.
"Oh, don't play coy with me, sugar," Bunnie said. "I saw how close you were with that stud."
Sally blushed. "I-I don't know what you're talking about. It was just a...combat exercise. Austin caught me off guard, that's all."
Bunnie placed her hand on Sally's shoulder. "Sally, yer not foolin' me one bit. I saw the way you were lookin' at each other. You two were gettin' pretty cozy there. C'mon, sugar. You know you can be honest with me. Tell me what's on your mind."
Sally sighed. "Pretty obvious, huh?"
"I've noticed over the last couple of days," Bunnie said. "You two have been gettin' close. Even Vanilla noticed."
"Vanilla," Sally said.
"I spoke with her this mornin'," Bunnie said. "She told me how Austin had rescued Cream. And she told me how you seemed taken with him."
Sally sat down on Bunnie's bed. "I guess there's no point denying it any longer. You're right. I've developed feelings for him. I know it seems too soon, but...."
"Oh, Sally," Bunnie said, sitting down next to her. "You got nothin' to feel ashamed about. I don't blame ya for feelin' the way you do. He's a nice guy. Pretty easy on the eyes, if ya ask me. And, considerin' he wants to help us against Robotnik, how could you not fall for him?"
"I realize that," Sally said.
"Is it because of Sonic," Bunnie asked gently.
"At first, yes," Sally said. "But, I don't think that's the case any longer. Yesterday, Austin and I both confided with each other about Sonic and his late girlfriend."
"Hold on," Bunnie said. "Is that what was botherin' him? He lost someone he cared about, too?"
"That's right," Sally said. "We both shared our pain. And I think that helped us both get closure. For the first time in a year, I feel some peace of mind, Bunnie."
"Well, I'm glad to hear that, sugar," Bunnie said.
"But now, I just don't know how to follow through with this," Sally said. "It feels like something's still holding me back."
"Ya know what I think," Bunnie asked. "I think it's fear and doubt. You're afraid to get close and afraid you'll get hurt again."
"You really think so," Sally asked.
"More 'n' likely," Bunnie said. "Sal, you can't let that stop you. You've been sufferin' for too long. Now you have the chance to be happy again." She placed both hands on Sally's shoulders and looked her straight in the eye. "You listen to me, sugar. As your friend, I care about you and I don't want to see you unhappy. If you love that boy, if he makes you happy, then you let him know. Tell him how you feel. Don't hide from your feelings. Go for it!"
Sally smiled, tears in her eyes. She threw her arms around Bunnie and hugged her.
"Bunnie, what would I do without you," she said. "You're right. I'm through running. I'm going to do it. I'll tell him."
"Atta, girl, Sally," Bunnie said. "Now, go get him."
Sally stood up and made her way to the door. She opened it and ran out.
"Good luck, sugar," Bunnie whispered.

Austin had arrived back at his hut and saw he had a visitor sitting at the table.
"Phoenix," Austin said. "Your timing is perfect."
"I sensed you had something to discuss," the Entity said. "Tell me, my friend, what's on your mind?"
Austin sat down at the table and then proceeded to tell Phoenix. The Entity listened patiently as Austin told him of his growing feelings for Sally.
"I know it seems sudden," Austin said. "Believe me, I never expected this to happen. But, I can't deny it. And now, I'm not sure what I should do. Should I tell her? I just feel uncertain."
He glanced at Phoenix who seemed to be contemplating on Austin's dilemma.
"Austin," he finally said. "I never expected this to happen either. Truthfully, I..."
"I know what you're going to say," Austin said. "You think I shouldn't. It's too soon and I barely know her."
"That's not what I was going to say," Phoenix replied. "On the contrary. I was going to tell you, I'm glad."
"Wha-What," Austin said.
"Austin," Phoenix said. "Over the last year, I watched you suffer in silence after you lost Jill. I hated to see you like that, knowing that, even with my power and knowledge, I could do nothing to help you. And when you left home, I prayed you would find your way back. And you have. I see that spark in your eyes when Jill was around. This girl, Sally, has helped you find peace and brought light back to the darkness that plagued you. If she makes you happy, then go for it."
"You really think so," Austin asked.
"That's just my advice," Phoenix said. "Ultimately, it depends on you."
Austin sat in quiet thought for a moment, then realized, what was there to think about? He knew how he felt. And he was tired of denying it.
"Thanks, Phoenix," he said. "I really appreciate the advice. I'm going to do it."
Phoenix nodded. "Very good." He glanced at the door as someone knocked. "It seems opportunity has come knocking." He stood up. "I wish you well, Austin. I'll be in touch."
He disappeared in a flash of flames. Austin made his way to the door. Taking a deep breath, he opened it. And standing there was Sally.
"May I come in," she asked.
Austin nodded. Sally entered and he closed the door. Turning, he faced her, his heart beating fast. This was it! The moment of truth!
"Sally," he began.
Suddenly, Sally stepped forward and embraced him. Surprised, Austin glanced down at her.
"Um, what," Austin said.
"I can't fight it any longer, Austin," she said, looking up at him. "I had to tell you. I...I love you. I know it's so sudden, but I don't care. I've come to care about you."
Austin stared at her a second and then he embraced her, wrapping his arms around her and holding her close.
"Sally," he said. "You have no idea how glad I am to hear that. The truth is, I feel the seem way. I was a fool to try and deny it, but, no more. I love you, too."
Sally smiled up at him. They leaned in close, their lips touching. Then, unable to hold back, they kissed passionately, holding each other in a warm and comforting embrace. For the first time in what seemed like forever, all their sorrow and despair faded. Love had returned to their lives.

End of Chapter Six...