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Healing Hearts
Chapter 49
Robotropolis-Several moments earlier...
“My god, how did he get so huge,” Austin exclaimed, staring at the monstrosity that was Metal Sonic. “What happened to him?”
“I've seen this before,” Sally said. “Metal is capable of altering himself by assimilating with other robots. And judging from the various parts, I'd say the unfortunate bots in question were some of Robotnik's new robots.”
“Great,” Austin said. “And look what's on his chest. The Chaos Emeralds.”
“Minus one,” Sally pointed out. “We still have the seventh emerald. Not that that makes much of a difference.”
Austin could see their friends battling against Metal. The titanic robot was proving to be a formidable challenge for them. Given that he was powered by six emeralds, it came as no surprise to him. Having battled Mogul, who had one emerald at his disposal, he couldn't even begin to imagine how strong someone, or something, was with six of them.
“We have to do something,” he said. “We have to help them.”
“I agree,” Sally replied. “But what can we do?”
“I have an idea,” Austin said. “I could utilize the Phoenix Armor just as I did against Mogul.”
“Yes, that could work,” Sally said.
“Wait!”
They turned to see that Edena had appeared. She stood next to Amber, who was still out cold.
“Edena,” Austin said. “Perfect timing. I need to use the Phoenix Armor to stop that thing.”
“That wouldn't be wise, Austin,” Edena replied. “It has only been a few days since you last used that power, but even now, using it would be too dangerous. Your body couldn't handle the strain.”
“He can't use it right now,” Sally asked. “Does it really take that much of a toll on him?”
“Unfortunately, yes,” Edena said. “That power is massive beyond imagination, and Austin would require a long period of time to fully recover from it. Not to mention the energy must recharge itself as well.”
“So, then, what do we do,” Austin asked. “What are our options?”
“First things first,” Edena said. “We must see to Amber.”
The Goddess knelt down and placed her hand over the unconscious girl. A white light surrounded her and in less than a few seconds, her injuries had vanished. Amber's eyes opened and she sat up. Her gaze focused on Edena.
“Goddess,” Amber gasped, bowing respectfully.
“I am relieved to see you are alright, Amber,” Edena said, smiling warmly.
Amber climbed to her feet and saw Austin and Sally nearby. She also saw the massive robot in the distance fighting with their friends.
“That thing,” she said. “It's stronger than we realized. I never imagined Metal was capable of transforming himself like that. And to make matters worse, he has six of the emeralds.”
“Yeah, I know,” Austin said. “We were trying to formulate a plan to stop him. I though about using the Phoenix Armor, but Edena says it's a no-go.”
“Edena, is there anything we can do,” Sally asked.
“There is, actually,” Edena replied. “Chaos Control.”
“Chaos Control,” Sally said. “But...I don't know how to use that. Only Sonic, Knuckles, Tails and Shadow have used it. I don't know if it will even work for me.”
“Chaos Control can be utilized by almost anyone, Sally,” Edena said. “Even you.”
“I don't know about this, Edena,” Austin spoke up. “There's no telling how that power will react with my own power. What if I can't control it?”
“You can,” Edena assured him. “I have faith in you.”
“As do I,” Amber added. “I have faith in both of you.”
Both Austin and Sally glanced at each other, uncertain. Neither one understood Chaos Control or how it worked, but at the moment, they had little choice. Besides, their friends were in need of their help. Metal had to be stopped, and if this was the only way, then so be it. By silent agreement, they made their decision.
“Alright,” Austin said. “What would we have to do? How do we activate Chaos Control?”
“You will need to get close to the other emeralds,” Edena explained. “Naturally, Metal won't let you near them, but, as it is, I have a plan. First...” Holding her palm out, an emerald materialized in her hand. “You will need this. A fake emerald. Keep the real one hidden and show this to Metal. When he attempts to seize it, destroy it.”
“How will that help,” Sally asked.
“Metal will become enraged and seize the two of you, instead,” Edena said.
“How do...You've foreseen it, haven't you,” Austin asked.
“I have seen enough to know what needs to be done,” Edena said. “From there, you will know what to do to get to the emeralds. Once you are close enough, recite these words: The servers are the seven chaos. Chaos is power, enriched by the heart. The controller exists to unify chaos.”
“I've heard those words before,” Sally said. “When Sonic and the others utilized Chaos Control.”
“And that will activate it,” Austin asked.
“It will,” Edena said. “The rest will be up to you.”
She handed the fake emerald to Austin. He gazed at a moment and then stuffed it in his coat pocket. Then he turned to Sally.
“I guess this is it,” he said. “Shall we go and finish this?”
Sally nodded. “Yes. Let's go.”
Present time...
Austin and Sally hovered in the air before Metal Sonic, transformed by the power of Chaos Control.
“So, this is what it's like,” Sally said, studying her Super Form.
“I gotta admit,” Austin said. “You look good in gold.”
She smiled at him. “Flatterer. So, tell me, is this what it feels like when you use your Phoenix Armor?”
“It's pretty close,” he admitted. “It feels similar, and yet...it's a different level of power.”
They turned their attention to Metal Sonic. The giant robot's eyes flared with rage.
“DO YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU HAVE DONE,” he bellowed. “YOU COST ME THE EMERALDS!”
“Yeah, I believe that's the third time now we've kept you from the whole set,” Austin said.
“ENOUGH! TIME TO END THIS! DIE!!!!”
Austin and Sally moved fast as he swiped at them with his massive claws. The air whistled as they rent the air, and as he brought them back up for another attack, Austin flew in and landed a solid hit to Metal's face. The robot staggered backwards, sporting a noticeable dent from the impact. Roaring in anger, he reached out to grab Austin, who slipped through his grip. From out of nowhere, Sally came at Metal and attacked with a vicious barrage of kicks. Metal turned and swiped at her. Surprisingly, she didn't dodge, but instead, intercepted the claw. With amazing strength, she twisted one of Metal's fingers off. As the stump sparked, Sally flew towards Metal's eyes and jammed the severed claw into one of his optics. Metal shrieked as the claw pierced his eye, sparks spraying from the damaged optic.
“Nicely done,” Austin said.
Drawing on his power, Austin conjured up several energy orbs and launched them at Metal. The robot buckled under the assault. Tearing out the claw, Metal focused his one good eye on Austin and then fired off a blast of energy from his open mouth. Austin sailed backwards as the beam hit him, though he managed to survive it.
“Austin! You okay,” Sally called out.
“I'm alright,” he assured her.
Sally turned to Metal. “Okay, let me take a shot at him.”
Concentrating, Sally focused energy into her hands and then unleashed a golden beam of energy at Metal. The beam struck the robot, creating a sizable hole in his shoulder. Metal raised his hand and the tips of his claws fired off as a salvo of missiles. Sally moved quickly, dodging around the incoming projectiles. One missile exploded right next to her. The explosive backlash caught her by surprise and she plummeted towards the ground. Before she hit the ground, however, Austin swooped in and caught her.
“Thanks,” she said.
“Anytime,” Austin replied.
They flew back up towards Metal and resumed the battle.
Down below, everyone watched the battle. All fighting had ceased. What robots remained had halted at the sight of the gigantic robot battling Austin and Sally. They didn't know exactly how to react to this latest development. The Edenians and Freedom Fighters had also stopped to watch the battle as well, the Swat-Bots momentarily forgotten.
“Incredible,” Lupe gasped. “Is that...Sally up there?”
“It would appear so,” Silver replied. “I recognize Prince Austin, though I've never seen him use this power before. What is it?”
“Chaos Control,” Julie-Su spoke up. “I've seen this before with Knuckles and Sonic. I never thought Sally was capable of using it.”
“Chaos Control,” Silver asked. “Does it have something to do with the Chaos Emeralds?”
“That's right,” Julie-Su replied. “Austin and Sally must have used the emeralds to access it. Pretty clever how they got in close enough to do it.”
“But, will it be enough to stop that thing,” Walt Wallaby asked.
“I think it will,” Silver said. “I have seen his majesty overcome incredible odds before. And with the Princess helping him, I know they will succeed.”
Elsewhere, the others were witnessing the epic battle.
“Wow,” Amy exclaimed. “Sally is actually using Chaos Control. I didn't think that was possible.”
Above them, a bright flash lit up the sky as energy attacks struck.
“It's no Phoenix Armor,” Darren said. “But it's still pretty damn cool! C'mon, Austin! You can do it, bro! Show that bot who's boss!”
“Yeah, you, too, Sally,” Amy cheered.
Everyone began yelling out support for the two combatants in the sky.
“Wait! Something's happening,” Allan said.
The battle had raged for several long moments, each side striking with all their strength. Metal had sustained heavy damage and, to complicate matters, his energy was starting to run down, now that he was no longer powered by the emeralds. The fuel cells from the robots he had assimilated could only last so long. Metal cursed Robotnik for designing such faulty parts. He realized that at this rate he would be destroyed for certain. How that angered him! To come so far and achieve ultimate power, only to have it snatched away from him by two organic based life forms. Well, he had one last trump card to play.
Metal spread his metallic wings and took flight. He rocketed straight up into the sky and then halted, many miles above Robotropolis. Austin and Sally followed after him, wondering what the robot was up to.
“Give it up, Metal,” Austin said, as they drew level with him. “It's over!”
“I QUITE AGREE,” Metal said. “IT IS OVER...FOR ALL OF YOU!!!”
Metal began glowing. Energy sparked all across his metallic body and a bright red aura surrounded him.
“What are you doing,” Sally demanded.
“I WILL UNLEASH ALL OF MY POWER UPON THE CITY,” Metal replied. “I WILL DESTROY EVERYTHING WITH EVERY OUNCE OF MY ENERGY!”
Austin felt a chill run down his spine. With all the built-up energy Metal was gathering, it would no doubt be the same force as an atomic bomb. And given all the explosive and flammable materials in Robotropolis, the blast would be catastrophic. It could even spread towards the Great Forest and Knothole.
“You're insane,” Austin yelled. “You would destroy everything and everyone just like that?”
“YES! I WOULD,” Metal said.
“We have to stop him,” Sally said.
Austin nodded. He glanced at Sally and she nodded as well. They knew what they had to do, even if it meant their destruction.
“I guess this is it, then,” Austin said. “Time to see how powerful Chaos Control is.”
Sally smiled, taking his hand in hers. “Whatever happens, Austin, I'm glad we met. And...I love you.”
“I love you, too, Sally,” he said. “Now, let's end this.”
Above them, Metal had reached the peak of his power and now unleashed it. A massive beam of energy shot down, heading straight towards the city below. Austin and Sally flew into the path of the beam and channeled all the power they could muster. As the beam struck, they unleashed their own energy.
“Chaos Control!!!”
The two opposing powers hit. There was a tremendous explosion that shook the entire ground below. Metal watched as the chaos energy surged up towards him. As the energy washed over him, his robotic body disintegrated. Metal struggled against the destruction of his own body. This couldn't be happening! It was impossible! He was the ultimate robot, he was invincible, unstoppable. And then, the light engulfed him entirely and he knew nothing more...
As the light faded and the tremors subsided, everyone glanced up at the sky. There was no sign of Metal...unfortunately, they saw no sign of their two friends either.
“Oh, no,” Amy whispered. “They didn't...They couldn't...”
Allan bowed his head. “I'm afraid they did. They sacrificed themselves to stop that attack.”
“Noooo,” Amy wailed, collapsing to her knees. “Not again! I can't lose someone else that I care about!”
Tails knelt down and embraced her. Amy sobbed uncontrollably in Tails' arms. All around, everyone bowed their heads in sorrow at the loss of their friends.
Nothingness...At least, that's what it felt like to Austin. He felt as if he were floating. He gazed around at the void surrounding him. Was he...dead? Was this the afterlife? He felt alone...so alone...
“Hey, you're not alone.”
A voice! A familiar voice! One he thought he would never hear again. Turning, he saw a young woman with lavender hair floating right next to him.
“Jill,” he whispered. “Is that...really you?”
“Yeah, it's me,” Jill replied, smiling. “It's good to see you again, Austin.”
“I must be dead then,” he said. “Because you...”
“Listen, Austin,” Jill said. “You're not dead. You're just...in between life and death. Soon you'll return back to your body. It's not your time yet. But, before you go back, I just wanted to see you one last time.”
“Oh, Jill,” Austin said. “How can you not hate me? I let you die. And now, there's someone else...”
“Austin,” she said. “I don't hate you. And I certainly don't blame you for what happened to me, either. We all knew the risks, and I was proud to have fought at your side. And, I know about Sally. I may not be with you in body, but I am with you in spirit. I know you suffered after my death, but you found someone who healed your broken heart. And I'm glad. I don't want you to remain alone. I know you'll always love me.”She came forward and embraced him. “Just as I'll always love you.”
Austin held her close, tears coursing down his face. Jill pulled back and smiled at him.
“Hey, c'mon, now,” she said. “No tears. We'll see each other again someday. In the meantime, we have somewhere else to be before you head back.”
Sally couldn't believe her eyes! Standing before her was a figure she had thought lost to her.
“Sonic.”
“Hey, Sal,” Sonic greeted her with his confident smile she remembered so well. “Long time no see.”
Sally reached out and touched his face. “Is it really you?”
“Well, yes and no,” Sonic replied.
“Am I...” Sally began.
“No, you're not dead,” Sonic assured her. “It's not your time yet, Sal. Think of this as a sort of...out of body experience.”
“Then...you're a ghost,” she said.
“Spirit, ghost, it's all the same,” Sonic replied nonchalantly. “Look, Sally, there's not much time, so I'll make this quick. I'm proud of you. You kept up the fight and you won. You saved Mobius and it's people. And...I just want you to know, that I still love you, Sally. I always will. But, now, you have Austin. I know he'll take good care of you.”
“Sonic,” Sally said. “I'll never forget you.”
“I know,” he said. He glanced behind her. “By the way, we've got company.”
Sally turned to see Austin and a girl with lavender hair. Sally immediately recognized her.
“You're...Jill,” she said.
“That's right,” Jill replied. “Nice to meet you, Sally.”
Austin stood before Sonic. “So, I finally get to meet the infamous Sonic the Hedgehog.”
“My reputation precedes me,” Sonic replied, shaking his hand. “Nice to meet you, too, Austin. Nice job sticking it to Robuttnik.”
“The pleasure was all mine,” Austin said.
“I wish it didn't have to end so soon,” Jill interrupted. “But, our time is up, and we have to return. And you two have to go back, as well.”
“So, then...this is goodbye,” Sally said.
“We'll see each other again someday, Sal,” Sonic assured her. “And don't forget, we're always with you, right, Jill?”
“That's right,” Jill agreed. “Take care, you two. It was great seeing you again.”
“Bye, Jill,” Austin said. “And, thank you.”
Both Jill and Sonic began to fade into the white void. Sonic gave a thumbs-up and grinned.
“Be seein' ya, Sal,” he said, as he vanished. Then....
Austin awoke and abruptly sat up. He glanced around and saw he was in Robotropolis. He was alive! He held a hand to his throbbing head, actually glad to feel some pain. Beside him, Sally also sat up, moaning and rubbing her forehead.
“Hey, you alright,” Austin asked.
“I will be when my head stops pounding,” she replied. She glanced around the area. “Austin, were we...Did we really see...?”
“I think we did,” Austin said. “I'm pretty sure we did. Somehow, they spoke to us.” He looked up into the sky and then smiled, tears in his eyes. “You know, Sally, now, I really feel at peace.”
Sally nodded, her smile matching his. “Yeah. Me, too.”
“Hey, they're over here!”
They turned to see several of their friends rushing towards them. Amy immediately went to Sally and grabbed her in an embrace.
“Sally! You're alive,” she said, crying. “I thought we'd lost you!”
Sally hugged the sobbing hedgehog. “It's alright, Amy. I'm okay.”
Darren helped Austin to his feet and hugged him as well. “Don't ever scare me like that again, bro. I thought for a moment you were...”
“He's alive, Darren,” Amber interjected. She threw her arms around Austin. “That's all that matters.”
By that time, everyone had shown up, relieved to see Austin and Sally were alive and well.
Elsewhere in Robotropolis, Robotnik had finally arrived at his shuttle. Due to the battle, he had had to take several detours and side tunnels to avoid being seen. But now he had made it. His shuttle sat just a few feet away. Soon he would be airborne and far away from here. And once he reached his new outpost, he could begin rebuilding his forces. This was just a minor setback. He would return and he would take back his city.
Entering his access codes, Robotnik boarded his ship. The door began to close behind him when he felt a slight chill. Turning, he glanced back, but saw nothing. Probably his mind playing tricks on him. He had to get out of here and soon. He made his way towards the cockpit and sat down at the controls. He punched in the codes to activate the shuttle. The engines came on and he was preparing to lift off when...
“Leaving so soon, Doc?”
Robotnik froze at the sound of the voice. Someone had snuck on board his shuttle! And, whoever it was sounded feminine.
“Turn around, nice and slow. And hands where I can see them.”
Robotnik did as he was told. Slowly, he swiveled his chair around and came face to face with a young woman. She had short black hair and piercing blue eyes as cold as winter. In her hand was a gun, which was pointed right at him. Shade had caught up with Robotnik!
“Who are you,” Robotnik demanded.
In answer, Shade backhanded Robotnik across the face.
“I don't recall asking you to speak,” she said.
“You'll regret that,” Robotnik growled, ignoring the stinging pain to his face.
“Spare me the threats,” Shade replied. “It's over, Robotnik. Your forces are destroyed, the Robians are free from your control, and Metal's been annihilated. The good guys have won.”
“For now,” Robotnik said. “But I am not defeated so easily. This war is far from over.”
“On the contrary,” Shade said. “The war is over.” She cocked the trigger of her gun.
“You wouldn't,” Robotnik said, his tone slightly nervous. “I know your type. You would never kill me while I'm unarmed and defenseless.”
Then to his horror, he saw Shade's eyes turn from ice-blue to blazing red.
“That's where you're wrong,” Shade said.
Those were the last words Robotnik ever heard...
“Silver,” Austin asked. “What's the situation?”
“Our forces have decimated Robotnik's machines,” Silver reported. “What few remain are being dealt with even as we speak.”
“And the Robians,” Sally asked.
“We got them all,” Shadow answered. He held up the blue stone. “This relic really came through.”
“Did we suffer any casualties,” Austin asked.
“Thankfully, no,” Silver replied. “We have wounded troops, but they will be just fine.”
“Thank goodness,” Sally said.
“So, does that mean we won,” Amy asked.
“Not yet,” Tails spoke up. “Robotnik's still unaccounted for.”
“Tails is right,” Sally said. “Until we take out Robotnik, this battle isn't over.”
“I hate to say it,” Austin said. “But chances are, he got away during all the fighting. He could be long gone by now.”
“Unless Shade got to him,” Shadow said.
“Wait! Shade,” Austin exclaimed. “She went after Robotnik?”
“I was wondering where she was,” Vahn mused. “I didn't see her during the battle against Metal.”
“But, where is she,” Sally asked. “And did she catch Robotnik?”
Suddenly, a large raven swooped down and flapped in the air above them.
“Ruhk,” Austin called out. “Do you know where Shade is?”
“Follow me,” the raven rasped. Turning, he flew off, Austin and Sally following him.
It wasn't long before they reached a hangar. Austin and Sally saw a single shuttle sitting on the launchpad. And standing next to it, calmly smoking a cigarette, was Shade.
“There you are,” Austin said as they approached.
“I see Ruhk found you,” Shade spoke up. “You two alright?”
“We're fine,” Sally said, glancing at the shuttle. “Did you find Robotnik?”
Shade removed her cigarette and exhaled a long plume of smoke. “I found him alright. He's in there.”
Sally looked at the open hatch and took a step forward, only to be halted by Austin. He shook his head.
“I don't think you should go in there,” he said.
“He's right,” Shade said. “It's not a pretty sight.”
Sally's eyes widened as she got the gist of what they were getting at!
“You mean he's...” she gasped.
“Yeah,” Shade replied. “I already took care of him.”
Sally glanced once more at the shuttle, which contained the body of her enemy.
“Why, Shade,” Sally asked. “Why you?”
“Look,” Shade said, stomping out her cigarette. “I already have blood on my hands. You two don't need that burden. It'll be my cross to bear.”
Sally was speechless. She hadn't known Shade that long, but the young woman had never struck her as being noble and selfless. It seemed there was more to her than Sally originally thought.
“Now, let's get the hell out of here,” Shade said, moving away from the shuttle.
As they walked down the corridor, Shade turned back towards the aircraft and pulled out her guns. Taking aim, she fired off a round each. The bullets zipped through the open hatch and a few seconds later, the shuttle exploded. Sally and Austin watched as the shuttle burned, and with it, the remains of Doctor Robotnik.
“Finally,” Sally whispered, tears brimming her eyes. “It's over.”
End of Chapter 49...
Chapter 49
Robotropolis-Several moments earlier...
“My god, how did he get so huge,” Austin exclaimed, staring at the monstrosity that was Metal Sonic. “What happened to him?”
“I've seen this before,” Sally said. “Metal is capable of altering himself by assimilating with other robots. And judging from the various parts, I'd say the unfortunate bots in question were some of Robotnik's new robots.”
“Great,” Austin said. “And look what's on his chest. The Chaos Emeralds.”
“Minus one,” Sally pointed out. “We still have the seventh emerald. Not that that makes much of a difference.”
Austin could see their friends battling against Metal. The titanic robot was proving to be a formidable challenge for them. Given that he was powered by six emeralds, it came as no surprise to him. Having battled Mogul, who had one emerald at his disposal, he couldn't even begin to imagine how strong someone, or something, was with six of them.
“We have to do something,” he said. “We have to help them.”
“I agree,” Sally replied. “But what can we do?”
“I have an idea,” Austin said. “I could utilize the Phoenix Armor just as I did against Mogul.”
“Yes, that could work,” Sally said.
“Wait!”
They turned to see that Edena had appeared. She stood next to Amber, who was still out cold.
“Edena,” Austin said. “Perfect timing. I need to use the Phoenix Armor to stop that thing.”
“That wouldn't be wise, Austin,” Edena replied. “It has only been a few days since you last used that power, but even now, using it would be too dangerous. Your body couldn't handle the strain.”
“He can't use it right now,” Sally asked. “Does it really take that much of a toll on him?”
“Unfortunately, yes,” Edena said. “That power is massive beyond imagination, and Austin would require a long period of time to fully recover from it. Not to mention the energy must recharge itself as well.”
“So, then, what do we do,” Austin asked. “What are our options?”
“First things first,” Edena said. “We must see to Amber.”
The Goddess knelt down and placed her hand over the unconscious girl. A white light surrounded her and in less than a few seconds, her injuries had vanished. Amber's eyes opened and she sat up. Her gaze focused on Edena.
“Goddess,” Amber gasped, bowing respectfully.
“I am relieved to see you are alright, Amber,” Edena said, smiling warmly.
Amber climbed to her feet and saw Austin and Sally nearby. She also saw the massive robot in the distance fighting with their friends.
“That thing,” she said. “It's stronger than we realized. I never imagined Metal was capable of transforming himself like that. And to make matters worse, he has six of the emeralds.”
“Yeah, I know,” Austin said. “We were trying to formulate a plan to stop him. I though about using the Phoenix Armor, but Edena says it's a no-go.”
“Edena, is there anything we can do,” Sally asked.
“There is, actually,” Edena replied. “Chaos Control.”
“Chaos Control,” Sally said. “But...I don't know how to use that. Only Sonic, Knuckles, Tails and Shadow have used it. I don't know if it will even work for me.”
“Chaos Control can be utilized by almost anyone, Sally,” Edena said. “Even you.”
“I don't know about this, Edena,” Austin spoke up. “There's no telling how that power will react with my own power. What if I can't control it?”
“You can,” Edena assured him. “I have faith in you.”
“As do I,” Amber added. “I have faith in both of you.”
Both Austin and Sally glanced at each other, uncertain. Neither one understood Chaos Control or how it worked, but at the moment, they had little choice. Besides, their friends were in need of their help. Metal had to be stopped, and if this was the only way, then so be it. By silent agreement, they made their decision.
“Alright,” Austin said. “What would we have to do? How do we activate Chaos Control?”
“You will need to get close to the other emeralds,” Edena explained. “Naturally, Metal won't let you near them, but, as it is, I have a plan. First...” Holding her palm out, an emerald materialized in her hand. “You will need this. A fake emerald. Keep the real one hidden and show this to Metal. When he attempts to seize it, destroy it.”
“How will that help,” Sally asked.
“Metal will become enraged and seize the two of you, instead,” Edena said.
“How do...You've foreseen it, haven't you,” Austin asked.
“I have seen enough to know what needs to be done,” Edena said. “From there, you will know what to do to get to the emeralds. Once you are close enough, recite these words: The servers are the seven chaos. Chaos is power, enriched by the heart. The controller exists to unify chaos.”
“I've heard those words before,” Sally said. “When Sonic and the others utilized Chaos Control.”
“And that will activate it,” Austin asked.
“It will,” Edena said. “The rest will be up to you.”
She handed the fake emerald to Austin. He gazed at a moment and then stuffed it in his coat pocket. Then he turned to Sally.
“I guess this is it,” he said. “Shall we go and finish this?”
Sally nodded. “Yes. Let's go.”
Present time...
Austin and Sally hovered in the air before Metal Sonic, transformed by the power of Chaos Control.
“So, this is what it's like,” Sally said, studying her Super Form.
“I gotta admit,” Austin said. “You look good in gold.”
She smiled at him. “Flatterer. So, tell me, is this what it feels like when you use your Phoenix Armor?”
“It's pretty close,” he admitted. “It feels similar, and yet...it's a different level of power.”
They turned their attention to Metal Sonic. The giant robot's eyes flared with rage.
“DO YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU HAVE DONE,” he bellowed. “YOU COST ME THE EMERALDS!”
“Yeah, I believe that's the third time now we've kept you from the whole set,” Austin said.
“ENOUGH! TIME TO END THIS! DIE!!!!”
Austin and Sally moved fast as he swiped at them with his massive claws. The air whistled as they rent the air, and as he brought them back up for another attack, Austin flew in and landed a solid hit to Metal's face. The robot staggered backwards, sporting a noticeable dent from the impact. Roaring in anger, he reached out to grab Austin, who slipped through his grip. From out of nowhere, Sally came at Metal and attacked with a vicious barrage of kicks. Metal turned and swiped at her. Surprisingly, she didn't dodge, but instead, intercepted the claw. With amazing strength, she twisted one of Metal's fingers off. As the stump sparked, Sally flew towards Metal's eyes and jammed the severed claw into one of his optics. Metal shrieked as the claw pierced his eye, sparks spraying from the damaged optic.
“Nicely done,” Austin said.
Drawing on his power, Austin conjured up several energy orbs and launched them at Metal. The robot buckled under the assault. Tearing out the claw, Metal focused his one good eye on Austin and then fired off a blast of energy from his open mouth. Austin sailed backwards as the beam hit him, though he managed to survive it.
“Austin! You okay,” Sally called out.
“I'm alright,” he assured her.
Sally turned to Metal. “Okay, let me take a shot at him.”
Concentrating, Sally focused energy into her hands and then unleashed a golden beam of energy at Metal. The beam struck the robot, creating a sizable hole in his shoulder. Metal raised his hand and the tips of his claws fired off as a salvo of missiles. Sally moved quickly, dodging around the incoming projectiles. One missile exploded right next to her. The explosive backlash caught her by surprise and she plummeted towards the ground. Before she hit the ground, however, Austin swooped in and caught her.
“Thanks,” she said.
“Anytime,” Austin replied.
They flew back up towards Metal and resumed the battle.
Down below, everyone watched the battle. All fighting had ceased. What robots remained had halted at the sight of the gigantic robot battling Austin and Sally. They didn't know exactly how to react to this latest development. The Edenians and Freedom Fighters had also stopped to watch the battle as well, the Swat-Bots momentarily forgotten.
“Incredible,” Lupe gasped. “Is that...Sally up there?”
“It would appear so,” Silver replied. “I recognize Prince Austin, though I've never seen him use this power before. What is it?”
“Chaos Control,” Julie-Su spoke up. “I've seen this before with Knuckles and Sonic. I never thought Sally was capable of using it.”
“Chaos Control,” Silver asked. “Does it have something to do with the Chaos Emeralds?”
“That's right,” Julie-Su replied. “Austin and Sally must have used the emeralds to access it. Pretty clever how they got in close enough to do it.”
“But, will it be enough to stop that thing,” Walt Wallaby asked.
“I think it will,” Silver said. “I have seen his majesty overcome incredible odds before. And with the Princess helping him, I know they will succeed.”
Elsewhere, the others were witnessing the epic battle.
“Wow,” Amy exclaimed. “Sally is actually using Chaos Control. I didn't think that was possible.”
Above them, a bright flash lit up the sky as energy attacks struck.
“It's no Phoenix Armor,” Darren said. “But it's still pretty damn cool! C'mon, Austin! You can do it, bro! Show that bot who's boss!”
“Yeah, you, too, Sally,” Amy cheered.
Everyone began yelling out support for the two combatants in the sky.
“Wait! Something's happening,” Allan said.
The battle had raged for several long moments, each side striking with all their strength. Metal had sustained heavy damage and, to complicate matters, his energy was starting to run down, now that he was no longer powered by the emeralds. The fuel cells from the robots he had assimilated could only last so long. Metal cursed Robotnik for designing such faulty parts. He realized that at this rate he would be destroyed for certain. How that angered him! To come so far and achieve ultimate power, only to have it snatched away from him by two organic based life forms. Well, he had one last trump card to play.
Metal spread his metallic wings and took flight. He rocketed straight up into the sky and then halted, many miles above Robotropolis. Austin and Sally followed after him, wondering what the robot was up to.
“Give it up, Metal,” Austin said, as they drew level with him. “It's over!”
“I QUITE AGREE,” Metal said. “IT IS OVER...FOR ALL OF YOU!!!”
Metal began glowing. Energy sparked all across his metallic body and a bright red aura surrounded him.
“What are you doing,” Sally demanded.
“I WILL UNLEASH ALL OF MY POWER UPON THE CITY,” Metal replied. “I WILL DESTROY EVERYTHING WITH EVERY OUNCE OF MY ENERGY!”
Austin felt a chill run down his spine. With all the built-up energy Metal was gathering, it would no doubt be the same force as an atomic bomb. And given all the explosive and flammable materials in Robotropolis, the blast would be catastrophic. It could even spread towards the Great Forest and Knothole.
“You're insane,” Austin yelled. “You would destroy everything and everyone just like that?”
“YES! I WOULD,” Metal said.
“We have to stop him,” Sally said.
Austin nodded. He glanced at Sally and she nodded as well. They knew what they had to do, even if it meant their destruction.
“I guess this is it, then,” Austin said. “Time to see how powerful Chaos Control is.”
Sally smiled, taking his hand in hers. “Whatever happens, Austin, I'm glad we met. And...I love you.”
“I love you, too, Sally,” he said. “Now, let's end this.”
Above them, Metal had reached the peak of his power and now unleashed it. A massive beam of energy shot down, heading straight towards the city below. Austin and Sally flew into the path of the beam and channeled all the power they could muster. As the beam struck, they unleashed their own energy.
“Chaos Control!!!”
The two opposing powers hit. There was a tremendous explosion that shook the entire ground below. Metal watched as the chaos energy surged up towards him. As the energy washed over him, his robotic body disintegrated. Metal struggled against the destruction of his own body. This couldn't be happening! It was impossible! He was the ultimate robot, he was invincible, unstoppable. And then, the light engulfed him entirely and he knew nothing more...
As the light faded and the tremors subsided, everyone glanced up at the sky. There was no sign of Metal...unfortunately, they saw no sign of their two friends either.
“Oh, no,” Amy whispered. “They didn't...They couldn't...”
Allan bowed his head. “I'm afraid they did. They sacrificed themselves to stop that attack.”
“Noooo,” Amy wailed, collapsing to her knees. “Not again! I can't lose someone else that I care about!”
Tails knelt down and embraced her. Amy sobbed uncontrollably in Tails' arms. All around, everyone bowed their heads in sorrow at the loss of their friends.
Nothingness...At least, that's what it felt like to Austin. He felt as if he were floating. He gazed around at the void surrounding him. Was he...dead? Was this the afterlife? He felt alone...so alone...
“Hey, you're not alone.”
A voice! A familiar voice! One he thought he would never hear again. Turning, he saw a young woman with lavender hair floating right next to him.
“Jill,” he whispered. “Is that...really you?”
“Yeah, it's me,” Jill replied, smiling. “It's good to see you again, Austin.”
“I must be dead then,” he said. “Because you...”
“Listen, Austin,” Jill said. “You're not dead. You're just...in between life and death. Soon you'll return back to your body. It's not your time yet. But, before you go back, I just wanted to see you one last time.”
“Oh, Jill,” Austin said. “How can you not hate me? I let you die. And now, there's someone else...”
“Austin,” she said. “I don't hate you. And I certainly don't blame you for what happened to me, either. We all knew the risks, and I was proud to have fought at your side. And, I know about Sally. I may not be with you in body, but I am with you in spirit. I know you suffered after my death, but you found someone who healed your broken heart. And I'm glad. I don't want you to remain alone. I know you'll always love me.”She came forward and embraced him. “Just as I'll always love you.”
Austin held her close, tears coursing down his face. Jill pulled back and smiled at him.
“Hey, c'mon, now,” she said. “No tears. We'll see each other again someday. In the meantime, we have somewhere else to be before you head back.”
Sally couldn't believe her eyes! Standing before her was a figure she had thought lost to her.
“Sonic.”
“Hey, Sal,” Sonic greeted her with his confident smile she remembered so well. “Long time no see.”
Sally reached out and touched his face. “Is it really you?”
“Well, yes and no,” Sonic replied.
“Am I...” Sally began.
“No, you're not dead,” Sonic assured her. “It's not your time yet, Sal. Think of this as a sort of...out of body experience.”
“Then...you're a ghost,” she said.
“Spirit, ghost, it's all the same,” Sonic replied nonchalantly. “Look, Sally, there's not much time, so I'll make this quick. I'm proud of you. You kept up the fight and you won. You saved Mobius and it's people. And...I just want you to know, that I still love you, Sally. I always will. But, now, you have Austin. I know he'll take good care of you.”
“Sonic,” Sally said. “I'll never forget you.”
“I know,” he said. He glanced behind her. “By the way, we've got company.”
Sally turned to see Austin and a girl with lavender hair. Sally immediately recognized her.
“You're...Jill,” she said.
“That's right,” Jill replied. “Nice to meet you, Sally.”
Austin stood before Sonic. “So, I finally get to meet the infamous Sonic the Hedgehog.”
“My reputation precedes me,” Sonic replied, shaking his hand. “Nice to meet you, too, Austin. Nice job sticking it to Robuttnik.”
“The pleasure was all mine,” Austin said.
“I wish it didn't have to end so soon,” Jill interrupted. “But, our time is up, and we have to return. And you two have to go back, as well.”
“So, then...this is goodbye,” Sally said.
“We'll see each other again someday, Sal,” Sonic assured her. “And don't forget, we're always with you, right, Jill?”
“That's right,” Jill agreed. “Take care, you two. It was great seeing you again.”
“Bye, Jill,” Austin said. “And, thank you.”
Both Jill and Sonic began to fade into the white void. Sonic gave a thumbs-up and grinned.
“Be seein' ya, Sal,” he said, as he vanished. Then....
Austin awoke and abruptly sat up. He glanced around and saw he was in Robotropolis. He was alive! He held a hand to his throbbing head, actually glad to feel some pain. Beside him, Sally also sat up, moaning and rubbing her forehead.
“Hey, you alright,” Austin asked.
“I will be when my head stops pounding,” she replied. She glanced around the area. “Austin, were we...Did we really see...?”
“I think we did,” Austin said. “I'm pretty sure we did. Somehow, they spoke to us.” He looked up into the sky and then smiled, tears in his eyes. “You know, Sally, now, I really feel at peace.”
Sally nodded, her smile matching his. “Yeah. Me, too.”
“Hey, they're over here!”
They turned to see several of their friends rushing towards them. Amy immediately went to Sally and grabbed her in an embrace.
“Sally! You're alive,” she said, crying. “I thought we'd lost you!”
Sally hugged the sobbing hedgehog. “It's alright, Amy. I'm okay.”
Darren helped Austin to his feet and hugged him as well. “Don't ever scare me like that again, bro. I thought for a moment you were...”
“He's alive, Darren,” Amber interjected. She threw her arms around Austin. “That's all that matters.”
By that time, everyone had shown up, relieved to see Austin and Sally were alive and well.
Elsewhere in Robotropolis, Robotnik had finally arrived at his shuttle. Due to the battle, he had had to take several detours and side tunnels to avoid being seen. But now he had made it. His shuttle sat just a few feet away. Soon he would be airborne and far away from here. And once he reached his new outpost, he could begin rebuilding his forces. This was just a minor setback. He would return and he would take back his city.
Entering his access codes, Robotnik boarded his ship. The door began to close behind him when he felt a slight chill. Turning, he glanced back, but saw nothing. Probably his mind playing tricks on him. He had to get out of here and soon. He made his way towards the cockpit and sat down at the controls. He punched in the codes to activate the shuttle. The engines came on and he was preparing to lift off when...
“Leaving so soon, Doc?”
Robotnik froze at the sound of the voice. Someone had snuck on board his shuttle! And, whoever it was sounded feminine.
“Turn around, nice and slow. And hands where I can see them.”
Robotnik did as he was told. Slowly, he swiveled his chair around and came face to face with a young woman. She had short black hair and piercing blue eyes as cold as winter. In her hand was a gun, which was pointed right at him. Shade had caught up with Robotnik!
“Who are you,” Robotnik demanded.
In answer, Shade backhanded Robotnik across the face.
“I don't recall asking you to speak,” she said.
“You'll regret that,” Robotnik growled, ignoring the stinging pain to his face.
“Spare me the threats,” Shade replied. “It's over, Robotnik. Your forces are destroyed, the Robians are free from your control, and Metal's been annihilated. The good guys have won.”
“For now,” Robotnik said. “But I am not defeated so easily. This war is far from over.”
“On the contrary,” Shade said. “The war is over.” She cocked the trigger of her gun.
“You wouldn't,” Robotnik said, his tone slightly nervous. “I know your type. You would never kill me while I'm unarmed and defenseless.”
Then to his horror, he saw Shade's eyes turn from ice-blue to blazing red.
“That's where you're wrong,” Shade said.
Those were the last words Robotnik ever heard...
“Silver,” Austin asked. “What's the situation?”
“Our forces have decimated Robotnik's machines,” Silver reported. “What few remain are being dealt with even as we speak.”
“And the Robians,” Sally asked.
“We got them all,” Shadow answered. He held up the blue stone. “This relic really came through.”
“Did we suffer any casualties,” Austin asked.
“Thankfully, no,” Silver replied. “We have wounded troops, but they will be just fine.”
“Thank goodness,” Sally said.
“So, does that mean we won,” Amy asked.
“Not yet,” Tails spoke up. “Robotnik's still unaccounted for.”
“Tails is right,” Sally said. “Until we take out Robotnik, this battle isn't over.”
“I hate to say it,” Austin said. “But chances are, he got away during all the fighting. He could be long gone by now.”
“Unless Shade got to him,” Shadow said.
“Wait! Shade,” Austin exclaimed. “She went after Robotnik?”
“I was wondering where she was,” Vahn mused. “I didn't see her during the battle against Metal.”
“But, where is she,” Sally asked. “And did she catch Robotnik?”
Suddenly, a large raven swooped down and flapped in the air above them.
“Ruhk,” Austin called out. “Do you know where Shade is?”
“Follow me,” the raven rasped. Turning, he flew off, Austin and Sally following him.
It wasn't long before they reached a hangar. Austin and Sally saw a single shuttle sitting on the launchpad. And standing next to it, calmly smoking a cigarette, was Shade.
“There you are,” Austin said as they approached.
“I see Ruhk found you,” Shade spoke up. “You two alright?”
“We're fine,” Sally said, glancing at the shuttle. “Did you find Robotnik?”
Shade removed her cigarette and exhaled a long plume of smoke. “I found him alright. He's in there.”
Sally looked at the open hatch and took a step forward, only to be halted by Austin. He shook his head.
“I don't think you should go in there,” he said.
“He's right,” Shade said. “It's not a pretty sight.”
Sally's eyes widened as she got the gist of what they were getting at!
“You mean he's...” she gasped.
“Yeah,” Shade replied. “I already took care of him.”
Sally glanced once more at the shuttle, which contained the body of her enemy.
“Why, Shade,” Sally asked. “Why you?”
“Look,” Shade said, stomping out her cigarette. “I already have blood on my hands. You two don't need that burden. It'll be my cross to bear.”
Sally was speechless. She hadn't known Shade that long, but the young woman had never struck her as being noble and selfless. It seemed there was more to her than Sally originally thought.
“Now, let's get the hell out of here,” Shade said, moving away from the shuttle.
As they walked down the corridor, Shade turned back towards the aircraft and pulled out her guns. Taking aim, she fired off a round each. The bullets zipped through the open hatch and a few seconds later, the shuttle exploded. Sally and Austin watched as the shuttle burned, and with it, the remains of Doctor Robotnik.
“Finally,” Sally whispered, tears brimming her eyes. “It's over.”
End of Chapter 49...
Category Story / Sonic
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