Silver Fox by Cale David Kuecker ************************************************************ ************ First off is the legal shtick. Sonic, Tails, Rotor and all the rest are owned by Archie and Sega. The only character that I created is Silver Fox. I also wish to apologize to Marvel Comics and Stan Lee for the similarity between Doctor Octopus’ tentacles and the tentacles used by Silver Fox. Nothing personal, but I could not help designing the character without them. Also, this story may get a bit violent towards the end, so if you have a problem with it, stop reading. This is my first Fan-Fic so I would like some comments from those who read it. I hope there is nothing out there like this and if there is, I apologize, but this really did come from my mind. If you would like to use the story or Silver Fox as a basis for one of your own, please ask first, I would like to know who is using it. ************************************************************ ************ Timeline: Three months after the events chronicled in Archie’s Mecha-Madness Comic. ************************************************************ ************ Part 1: The Doctor, the Hedgehog, and the Silver Fox, or Natural Programmed Killer ************************************************************ ************ It was night in the crippled city of Robotropolis, yet still there was much activity. The city’s lord and master sits in his computerized chair, thinking of a new plan and a new weapon. On his chair’s computer screen is the culmination of several weeks worth of design, advancement, and planning. A sliding door opens and in walks a short, balding man with a big nose. He looks almost asleep on his feet. “Dr. Robotnik,” the man asks, “you wanted to see me?” “Yes, Snively. I want to show you something.” The red suited Doctor Robotnik turns from the screen to face his nephew (and lackey), “Do you remember E.V.E.?” “The renegade robot that tried to destroy you? Yes sir, I remember her well.” Came Snively’s answer. “You also remember how effective she was against that hated hedgehog, Sonic?” Snively nods, “Unfortunately, there were problems with her. I designed her to take the course of action logically best for her, and that led her to betray me. However, I think I may have solved that little problem. E.V.E. was a pure robot, programmed too perfectly to survive for herself. But I learned from that experience, as well as from my experience with Mecha-Sonic, to make them be subservient to me. In all instances in which Sonic has clashed with one of my robots, he has not hesitated to destroy them, even when they were former friends of his. But, though my brain-burn technology made him try to destroy Knothole, as Mecha-Sonic he could not kill his two-tailed fox comrade.” Robotnik began to explain, “That’s when I got the idea to use Tails as the weapon. I will turn that sweet innocent, ten year old twit into the ultimate robotic killing machine.” “But sir, why choose such a weak creature for a warrior? Why not use someone like Princess Sally or that dragon, uh, Dulcy?” Snively asked. “Because, for the greater good, Sally probably left orders for her robotic double to be destroyed. But the fox is just a child, neither Sonic or Sally would ever try to kill him. And, thanks to some new advances in the roboticization process, as well as sensor, armor, weapons, and AI technology, I can control how Tails will turn out when he is turned into a robot.” Robotnik gloats, “And to top it off, that flying two-tailed freak knows all of Sonic’s best moves. As a robot, he will be able to counter anything Sonic, or any of the Freedom Fighters, can do.” “Make the capture of Tails THE top priority.” Commands the bloated dictator. “Of course, sir.” Snively says aloud, then softly, “You senile old coot.” ************************************************************ ************ A few days later, at the hidden village of Knothole, Sonic is busy looking for Sally. He had just returned from a drop box run and had something very important for the Princess from Uncle Chuck. He found her in the War Room. “Yo, Sal.” Sonic said, “Uncle Chuck ‘s left a message in the blind drop for us. Old Buttnik is up ta somethin’ big. Unc says he is workin’ on some mondo new mega-weapon.” “Nicole also found that out,” Sally said, “Did Charles learn anything else about it?” “Nope, ol’ eggbelly’s got the whole thing under the tightest security we’ve ever seen.” The blue hedgehog answered. “But Unc is still trying, so don't worry, Sal. By the by, have you seen Tails around?” “Last I heard, Antoine and Rotor were taking him to the meadow for some fun. With all the excitement we’ve been having lately, the poor kid has been bored out of his mind.” Remembering a fox’s natural urge to be out in the open and away from confinement, Sonic merely replies, “Cool, I’ll just mosey on over to the meadow and check on them. Tails can be a handful sometime.” And with that, Sonic speeds off, creating a vacuum in his wake. * * * * * * * * * In a clearing near the Great Forest, the fox in question is quite busy picking flowers for a bouquet for his SAunt” Sally. On a nearby rock, Rotor, a walrus, keeps an eye on Tails, remembering what happened last time when the young vulpine had been left on his own. Antoine, another fox, who had no tail, practiced his swordplay, oblivious to the world around him. That was when Sonic sped up with a loud sonic boom, nearly knocking Antoine down. “You stoopeed fuel,” Antoine yelled in his bad French accent, “I could ‘ave been hurted.” “Relax Ant, I knew exactly what I was doing. But shouldn’t you be keeping an eye on Tails too?” Sonic said, pointing to where the orange-brown fox was picking flowers. “Rotor is saying that he can watch zhe young one heemself. I see no reason why I should be interfering in it.” And with that, Antoine returned to his swordplay. “Jerk.” Sonic muttered, and then he ran to the flower patch his little friend was in. “Yo, big guy. How ’s it hangin’?” “Perfect Sonic. Do you think ‘Aunt’ Sally will like these?” The young kit held up a bouquet of wildflowers, looking very pleased with himself, as his older mentor started nodding. * * * * * * * * “Sir, Stealthbots report they have sighted the two- tailed fox. Unfortunately, he is currently in the company of three of the freedom fighters, one of which is Sonic. They are awaiting your orders, Doctor.” Snively told his master. “Take him, NOW!” Robotnik commanded. * * * * * * * * * “So, was there anything good at the blind drop?” Rotor finally asked. “Uncle Chuck says ol’ chubberbolts is up to somethin’ big, but what, he hasn’t been able to find out yet. Apparently, though, Buttnik’s had to take the roboticizor off-line for it.” Just then, a stream of laser fire smacked down into the ground between the hedgehog and the walrus. Both looked up to see a squadron of Stealthbots flying overhead. “Capture Freedom Fighter target, Tails, priority one.” Said the lead Stealthbot in its scratchy metallic voice. Two of the Stealthbots break off formation and head for Tails, who has already taken cover in the flower patch. Sonic runs at top speed to his friend, dodging laser fire all the way. A quick jump and a Sonic spin later and the two Stealthbots are out of commission, permanently. “Ant, get Tails back to Knothole, Rotor an’ I’ll cover you.” “I am teenking this is a varie good idea.” Says the fox, and he grabs Tails arm and runs for the woods. Unfortunately, he also runs into six SWATbots. “Capture Freedom Fighter target, Tails, priority one.” Squawked the lead SWATbot. It then shot Antoine with a concussion laser, knocking him out. Seeing this, Tails began to twirl his two tails like a helicopter to take off, hoping the SWATbots would be too busy to notice. Before he could get to Antoine and make their escape, another robot fired a sedative into the two-tailed vulpine’s arm. This was sufficient to knock poor Tails out and the SWATbots claimed their prize leaving Antoine to explain what happened. * * * Meanwhile, Sonic and Rotor were faring much better against the Stealthbots. Another had come down and Sonic and Rotor were ready for another, when all the robots suddenly retreated. “Well whaddaya know,” Sonic said to his walrus chum, “we did it.” “I don't know Sonic. It's not like Robotnik to pull his forces out unless they achieve their objective.” Rotor mused, “He doesn’t care if we trash ‘em all as long as he gets what he wants.” “You’re right. We’d better check around. The lead butt-bot said they were after Tails, and I don't like the idea of my little bro in Doc Botnik’s clutches.” With that, Sonic began his search, soon coming upon Antoine, who is just awakening from his experience. “Oy, what has been happening,” the dazed fox asked, “Zhe last ting I am remembering ees zhe SWATbots.” “What!” Sonic screamed, “You let SWATbots get their metal mitts on Tails. You’ve done some pretty lame things in your time, Ant, but this takes the cake.” “It vas not my fault. I fought as hard as I could, but eet vas sixteen SWATbots against zhe one of moi . They knocked me out after I destroyed my feeth one.” Antoine said. Sonic is prepared to jump him, but Rotor steps in the way. “Sonic, there is no time for squabbling, we have to get back to Knothole and tell Sally, then we can make a plan to get Tails back.” “No time, Tails could already be in Robotropolis. I’ve got to get to him before Robotnik roboticizes him.” “And become captured too? Look, you don't even have a power ring, so you’ll be weaponless. And, if we do anything hasty, Robotnik might hurt, or even kill, Tails before we can save him.” Rotor interjected. The hedgehog conceded and the Freedom Fighters headed for home as fast as they could. ************************************************************ ************ A hover unit landed on the command center of Robotropolis and two SWATbots step out carrying a still unconscious Tails. They are taking the child to their evil overlord. “Very good, 4025. You have done your work well.” Robotnik says, smiling, “How much longer will the sedative remain in effect?” “Approximately forty-five minutes until the tranquilizer wears off.” The lead SWATbot answered. “Ample time. Now listen carefully. Take our young friend to the lab. There is a glass cylinder there. Place him inside and lock his arms, legs, and tails into it’s built-in shackles. On the table, there is a special headset and a face-mask. First, press the green button on the side of the mask and place it over his mouth and nose so that its air-tight. I don't want a single space left for anything to get in or out. Next, place the headset over his ears and strap them down also to be air-tight. Then put the locks on the cylinder and press the red button on the side. When the cylinder is filled with the yellow liquid, press the red button again. Then guard that room as if your circuits depended on it.” Robotnik instructed. He kneels down to look at Tails’ face. “You’re going to go down in history, my boy, as the robot that destroyed Sonic the hedgehog and the Freedom Fighters.” The SWATbots leave with the fox. “Sir, are you sure this is wise. Remember what happened with E.V.E. when you gave her the ability to think for herself ? She almost killed you and from what I’ve seen of the schematics for this, he might just finish the job she failed.” Snively said, tentatively. “Maybe so,” Robotnik stated, “However, I have taken some precautions to insure against that possibility. That head set is pumping in a subliminal learning program that will make my robot every bit as sadistic and cunning as me. I tried this procedure once before, so I could send a spy among the Freedom Fighters. Unfortunately, I thought at the time that it did not work. When I roboticized the subjects, though, the program took effect and over-rode the usual programs. It appears I made a mistake and created something for robot re-education. This,” Robotnik holds up a small diskette, “contains a program that will enslave his mind and make him loyal only to me. But I think I have explained myself enough for one night, Snively. Let’s go to the lab. This will take much time and I do not want the sedatives to have an adverse effect on our `guest.’” The mad dictator leaves with his less-than-faithful assistant. ************************************************************ ************ Back at Knothole, Sonic the Hedgehog paces back and forth in Sally’s hut, hurriedly telling her all the events that had transpired. Sally listened with a calm and composed attitude, but it can be seen in her eyes that she is troubled. “...And then, Rotor said we should beat feet back to Knothole and tell you, so I juice back here.” said an obviously distraught Sonic, “Sal, we gotta rescue him. I don't even want to think about what Robotnik’s doing to poor Tails.” “Sonic, there’s more to this than you know. Knuckles called and said Robotnik has got SWATbots and workerbots mining something on the other side of the Great Forest. And from what you’ve told me, those Stealthbots’ were specifically after Tails. We have to make a careful plan, or Robotnik might do something we’ll all regret.” Sally said. “At least wait until we have a plan.” “All right Sal, for Tails’ sake.” ************************************************************ ************ Four days later in Robotropolis finds Dr. Robotnik in his lab with Tails, who is still in the glass cylinder. Snively walks in holding a report in his hands. “Doctor Robotnik, security reports that the Freedom Fighters attempted to break their furry friend out of Robotropolis again last night. This makes three nights in a row, getting progressively closer to their objective. The SWATbots were barely able to stop them this time and if they attack again tonight, I’m not sure we will be able to stop them at all.” Robotnik smiled at his assistant and said, “Let them try Snively. By tonight, my ultimate weapon will be ready to stop them. And when I add this logic-subservience program to the algorithm, he will be totally under my power. Look at him Snively,” Robotnik punches up the design-plan for his new robot. “He possesses a fusion/fission reactor that is constantly splitting and recombining atoms, supplying him with a limitless energy source. Based on what I learned from the Void, I created a miniature universe with a single portal inside him. There he will store all the machinery he needs to operate. Tails alone is too small to support all the mechanisms I am designing him with, but this solves his problem quite easily. In fact, the only systems in this universe permanently are the weapons, body, brain, power source, sensors, intake valves, rockets, and some other special suprises. And his weapons systems alone make him the deadliest creature on Mobius.” “His shoulders contain anti-matter warheads, six each, which he is constantly manufacturing to keep at twelve. The tops of his forearms have quantum energy lasers in them, and the bottoms, machine guns with titanium-tipped bullets. His head houses a large quantum energy canon, and his back and feet hold rockets for flight. And his sides house retractable octopus-like arms that attack at a maximum of thirty feet away. And the whole body is constructed with indestructible vibrium armor. Even his tails have become weapons, holding six ball- bombs that can be thrown, which his body manufactures internally.” Robotnik was feeling very impressed with himself for creating such a powerful engine of destruction, but Snively was still unsure. “If you don't mind my asking again, sir, but, is it wise to give this robot such power? I mean, look at E.V.E. When she learned enough, she no longer wanted to serve you. What happens if this one come to that conclusion too?” Robotnik enter the diskette he held previously and enters it into the computer, “This program makes sure that, no matter what new data he receives, it will all equate into the fact that the best course for him to serve me. And only he can add new equipment and programs to himself after he has been activated. Even if the Freedom Fighters get a deroboticizor through his force field, I can just throw Tails into the old roboticizor and get back my robot unchanged. All this,” he points the equipment surrounding them, “is needed only once.” “And what designation number will you give this new warrior?” Snively asked, more at ease. “Oh, no number. This one will have a name, one befitting what he is now and will become. I shall call him, the Silver Fox. Now, the rest of the programs will take about a half hour longer to be down-loaded. After that it will take about six hours for his slow, careful roboticization, so he should be ready for tonight. I am going to make some preparations for our friends, call me when he is nearly ready, Snively.” With that, the egg- shaped doctor begins to leave. “Oh, and Snively, make sure the surge protectors are on. It looks like a storm is brewing.” When his master has left, Snively begins to look at the designs of Silver Fox’s systems. What he sees is almost so advanced that it frightens him. “Olfactory senses, multi- visual and multi-audial sensor types. That old coot’s really out done himself this time. I wonder if he’ll make anymore.” Just then, thunder crashes outside, reminding Snively of his job. He turns on the surge protector, unaware that a very important one is faulty. ************************************************************ ************ One half hour later. ************************************************************ ************ “Sir, the logic subservience program is about to load.” Snively says, and a bolt of lightening strikes, causing the power to flicker for a second. “Don’t worry sir, all the surge protectors are on-line.” “Good Snively, I will be down there soon, begin the roboticization process but do it slowly. Robotnik out.” Unbeknownst to either villain, the lightning and power outage erased part of the subservience program. It will fail the instant it tries to take effect. ************************************************************ ************ In Knothole, a very upset Sonic paces back and forth in the War Room, clearly agitated by their past failures to rescue his little bro. Sally is busy studying the holographic map of Robotropolis, provided by her minicomputer, Nicole, as well as looking over the new information from Uncle Chuck. There is no doubt that she is planning their next strike to free Tails. “Sonic,” Sally says, “would you please just sit down. Its very distracting when you pace around the room.” “Sorry Sal,” the blue hedgehog replied. “Its just, Tails could already be a workerbot. I don't want him to end up like the rest of his family.” Sally knew what this meant to Sonic. Ever since the fox cub had joined the Freedom Fighters in their war against Robotnik, Sonic had felt a kind of responsibility towards him. Tails meant almost everything to Sonic, who had come to think of the vulpine as a little brother. “Sonic,” Sally stated, “I really don't think Tails is a robot yet, and I’ll tell you why. Each time we’ve tried to get Tails back, we’ve met with more and more resistance. And we haven’t seen him in the holding cells, as well as the fact that Charles says the roboticizor is still off-line.” “Sally, I can’t help but worry about him.” “I understand Sonic, but that’s not going to help us.” Sally said. Then, a tall, burly figure walked into the room. “Princess, you called for me?” The figure said, in a gruff voice. He then stepped into the light to show that he was a tiger. “Yes Tygris. You’re coming with us on the mission this time. We can really use someone strong against the SWATbots and, if this runs true to form, I know we’ll meet a lot of them.” “We should also take Bunnie and Dulcy, they’ve always been a big help on these missions.” Sonic suggested. Just then, Antoine walks in, and Sonic glares at him, still mad over his cowardice when Tails needed him. “Whadda YOU want?!” Ignoring the hedgehog, the fox turns to Sally, salutes and says, “Antoine D’Coolette requesting permission to join zhis rescue mission.” “Antoine, I am suprised.” The squirrel replied, “This is the first mission you’ve ever volunteered to go on.” “My honor ees at stake here. It vas I who failed to protected Tails, zo it ees I who must help in bringing heem back.” “Very well, Antoine, you’re on the team. Just remember, this was your idea, so you can’t back out of it. And I will have you court-martialed if you run out on us in fear.” “Agreed.” Came the reply. “All right, let’s go over the plan. We’ll enter Robotropolis here and then we...” ************************************************************ ************ It was night in Robotropolis when the rescue team made its move. Tygris had volunteered to be lookout, but none of the Freedom Fighters had seen any ‘bots on patrol anywhere. Of all the things that could have happened, this was something the six had not been prepared for. Sally was the first to speak of the situation. “Don’t you think its odd that we haven’t run into a single patrol yet Tygris?” She whispered to the big tiger beside her. “Of course I do, Princess. This isn’t like Robotnik at all..” “I don't know whether this is a miracle or a curse.” Suddenly, a SWATbot walks up to the Freedom Fighter’s hiding place. “Welcome Freedom Fighters. This unit has been instructed to take you to your friend, Tails, and Dr. Robotnik. I have been disarmed so I cannot capture you, but if you wish, you may scan me if you wish to verify this.” The robot said in its metallic voice. “Yeah right, SWATbutt, as if we’re gonna trust you.” Sonic said. “Have it your way, but you will not be able to find your young friend without me. And as I said, you may scan me to prove that I am unarmed.” “Nicole,” Sally commands her palmtop computer, “scan SWATbot for any signs of weaponry.” “Scanning. No weapons located in SWATbot.” Nicole replied. “Well, it looks like he is telling the truth. I guess we have no choice but to follow him.” With that, the six follow the robot. It leads them through a maze of streets and buildings to the command center of Robotropolis. The robot then takes them down corridor after corridor until they come to a large set of doors. “Enter.” The SWATbot instructs as it opens the doors for the team to enter. Inside stood Dr. Robotnik, in all his bloated glory. “”Welcome, Freedumb Fighters. I am sure you’re quite curious as to the whereabouts of your two-tailed friend.” “Cut the routine, Eggman, where’s Tails.” Sonic yelled. “All in good time, wretched rodent. You’ll see your friend soon enough. But wouldn’t you like to know what I’ve been up to?” “Warning, warning!!” Nicole sounded, “Unknown robotic entity is active in the roof above us!” “Oh, now you have spoiled my suprise, Princess. Well, I guess you would have found out about it eventually. Silver Fox, come down and greet these nice people.” Robotnik commanded. Two tentacle-like arms dropped from the rafters to support a metallic vulpine body. Each member, to varying degrees, realized the significance this new robot had on their mission, but Sonic was the first to give voice to it. “Tails.” Sonic whispered. “That’s right, hedgehog, it's your friend, Tails. I rebuilt and renamed him. It quite simply means you are finished. He is now powered by a fusion/fission reactor. Princess, you can ask your computer what would occur if it blew.” “Nicole.” “The resulting explosion would completely devastate 95% of the planet’s total mass. The remaining 5% would cease to support life thirty seconds afterward.” “Just in case you are not caring enough not to destroy him. Any way, you are going to help me test my latest super- weapon. Silver Fox, capture them.” “Yes sir,” Silver Fox replied. He launches two tentacle arms, both of which almost connect with Sonic. The blue hedgehog jumps out of the way in time and spins to cut the tentacles, but the vibrium armor deflects him. Understanding the danger her team is now in, Sally sounds a retreat. As they run out the door. Robotnik calmly gives Silver Fox his command. “Take them.” Silver Fox’s rockets flare as he flies after his former friends. “It will not be long now Snively.” Robotnik gloats. ************************************************************ ************ Sally, Bunnie, Sonic, Dulcy, Antoine, and Tygris run as fast as they can, as the robo-fox closes in on them. Sally gives the command to split up at a three-way fork in the streets. Bunnie and Sonic go left, Sally and Tygris head right, and Antoine and Dulcy go straight. Silver Fox decides to give chase to the squirrel and the tiger. The bottom of his forearm opens up to show a gun that releases a spray of bullets, one of which hits Sally’s leg. A second shot, from the top of the same forearm, sent a bridge crashing down before the two animals, trapping them. Tygris steps in front of the injured princess, ready to protect her from anything. “If you want her, you’ll have to come through me!” He growled. “That’s the plan, foolish organic tiger.” Came Silver Fox’s response. Tygris moved to strike his fiercest pose, right between the robot and Sally. Silver Fox just grinned. “You know this is a big mistake, tiger, surrender now and maybe I will think about going easy on both of you.” “Because I’m never gonna give up!” Tygris yelled, and raised a titanic laser. The burly tiger took aim and fired, striking Silver Fox with an impact that caused an explosion around it. But, when the smoke cleared, there stood the metallic fox with not a scratch on him anywhere. “My turn.” And Silver Fox spun on his toes once, releasing two ball-shaped bombs from his tails. The first hit Tygris’s gun, exploding on contact and destroying the gun while injuring the hand. The second struck the tiger’s chest, releasing a black cloud of smoke around him. Silver Fox then went into a crouch, extending his tentacles, and jumped at Tygris. His top-left tentacle arm struck first, breaking the tiger’s back. The follow-up fist to the jaw broke the neck, a third blow from the bottom-left tentacle arm impaled the heart, while the final blow, a quick and deadly kick to the throat by a razor sharp foot, severed the windpipe. The only sound the dying tiger was able to make was the thud when he hit the ground. Princess Sally watches the fight in horror as her friend falls dead and his killer just turns to the squirrel and grins. “Well, that was fun.” The killer commented. “You monster!” Sally screamed. Forgetting all about the pain in her leg, she stands up and fires Nicole’s laser. The beam of light flies true, but three feet away from its target, the blast bounces off a newly activated force-field. Three tentacles fly out, one securing Nicole for its master’s use, another securing the princess, and the final injecting her with a sedative. A mental command is given, and the creature-who-was-once-Tails fires his rockets and flies off after the rest of his quarry. ************************************************************ ************ Sonic ran with Bunnie for all he was worth, truly scared over this new development. It was one thing to fight someone he hadn’t known too well as a robot, especially if they were older, but he knew he couldn’t inflict harm on his little fox friend, robot or not. And even if he could, the hedgehog had heard what Nicole had said about Silver Fox exploding. “Sugarhog, I sure do hate to be the bearer o’ bad news, but we all got company.” The cyber-bunny warned. “Don’t worry, Bunnie, there ain’t any way a robot can catch up with this hedgehog.” Sonic replied, going even faster. Silver Fox watched this and accelerated to match Sonic’s speed. He would play with hedgehog before catching him and the girl rabbit. After about thirty seconds of herding the racing rodent with his lasers, Silver Fox began to go faster, and proceeded to cut the blue teenager’s path off. Turning around, he began to herd Sonic towards the trap he had lain for Princess Sally. Sonic didn’t even see that he was being led somewhere, until it was too late. “Bunnie, you get outta here, and I’ll try to hold him off.” “No way, Sugar-hog. Freedom Fighters don't abandon each other, especially to ol’ Robotnik’s cronies.” Bunnie stated. “Ah, so much loyalty towards friends, such an endearing quality. I shall miss it in you when you are both workerbots.” The metallic voice of their pursuer stated. Silver Fox landed, maneuvering his tentacle to put the still unconscious princess aside and out of reach. As he turned around, Sonic hit with a spin to the chest, only to be deflected by the vibrium armor the made Silver Fox’s body. This did not suprise Sonic, as he wasn’t trying to hurt his former friend as much as knock him down, which it did. Unfortunately, Silver Fox was not dealt with so easily, as he stood up quickly and attacked. A tentacle arm shot out to grab Sonic, but the hedgehog was too quick and jumped out of the way. Bunnie then grabbed her enemy’s shoulder with her robotic arm. That’s when she felt just how strong Silver Fox was, as he broke her grip and turned, throwing her into a wall. Sonic again spun at Silver Fox, but the cyborg just stepped out of the way, blasting some rubble down on Sonic. Bunnie again grabbed Silver Fox’s arm, attempting to throw him, but he grabbed he cyber-arm and again sent her into a wall, both knocking her out and breaking he cyber-arm off at the connectors. Holding the appendage in his hands, a small part of Silver Fox began to get upset over what he had done, but it soon passed with the realization that that the arm could easily be fixed. Sonic, on the other hand, was in better shape. He began to wake up from his collision with the rubble, ready to get himself and Bunnie out of there. Silver Fox, however, had other thoughts. Jumping into the air, he uses his hands to cut through an overhead oil-line, sending its contents spilling down in front of Sonic. With no time to stop before and no friction after hitting the oil slick, Sonic rams into Silver Fox, falling unconscious in the process. “This is too easy.” Silver Fox muses as he collects his prizes and retrieves Sally. “Four down, I wonder how many to go.” And he flies off. ************************************************************ ************ Dulcy was doing her best to breathe. She was positively amazed at how strong Antoine was, especially when he was scared. Not that she could fault him as she “cracked the whip” for the third time. They had spotted the Silver Fox robot chasing them and he was still gaining on her. The dragon was now attempting to lose her pursuer, but no matter what she did, he still kept on her tail. “Eh, Dulcy.” “Tony! can’t you see I’m kinda busy. How close is he?” Dulcy asked. “Zat ees what I am trying to tell you. I was watching heem when he suddenly disap... Zut allures, Dulcy, look out!” Dulcy swerved just in time to be missed by an energy laser. Silver Fox had passed them up and opened fire on them. Although she evaded the blast, it did force her to land or risk crashing, something that could not happen if she wanted to live. Silver Fox also landed, preparing to capture the two. Dulcy saw the others, still unconscious, in his tentacles and attacked the cyborg, spitting a concentrated burst of flame. * * * Meanwhile, in the command center of Robotropolis, Robotnik watches his warrior engaging the dragon. He is very pleased with his handiwork. Silver Fox was performing admirably, even better than Mecha-Sonic or Metal-Sonic had. “Dr. Robotnik,” Snively spoke up, “Are you sure it’s safe to keep this ‘bot around? You saw what he did to that tiger, What would stop him from doing the same to us if he turned against us?” “You worry too much, Snively,” Robotnik replied, “I told you, the logic-subservience program keeps him under my control. There is no way he can rebel against me as long as it is active.” “If you say so, sir.” And with that, both villains turned back to watch the fight, seeing Dulcy’s fireball repelled by Silver Fox’s force field. * * * Sally’s head hurt from the effects of the powerful sedative she’d been injected with, but she was finally regaining consciousness. The first thing she noticed was that something metal was coiled around her, the second was that Bunnie and Sonic were in the same predicament, only they were still out of it. At first, Sally couldn’t understand how this had happened, but looking down to the source of the coiled tentacle brought it all back. She silently shuddered when she saw Dulcy engaging Silver Fox, reminding her of what had happened to Tygris. She searched for Antoine and found him holding his own against the fourth and final tentacle the metal vulpine had free. The ground squirrel tried to get out to help her friends, or at least distract her captor by struggling, but it was no use, the more she struggled, the tighter the tentacle became. So, Sally did the only thing she could. “Dulcy, Antoine! This is a direct order! Retreat and return to Knothole, NOW!” She yelled. The fox and the dragon looked at each other, not believing what they had heard, but complying anyway. Antoine jumped for Dulcy as the guardian dragon began to take off. Silver Fox prepares to follow, but a thought fires through his mind and he flies off for the death egg command center, prisoners in tow. ************************************************************ ************ “You let them get AWAY!!!” Robotnik screamed at Silver Fox. “Your orders were to capture them ALL, why did you let two escape?!” “They will bring more Freedom Fighters, and then, I will be able to crush them all.” “Do not try my patience, robot. I made you, and I can break you. Now, put the prisoners in their cell and go on patrol, or I will recycle you into a toaster.” Robotnik ordered. “You know, Moby Dick, I’m getting awfully tired of you ordering me around.” Silver Fox snapped back. “Of all the... How dare you talk to me like that. I am your master.” Robotnik growled. “That’s another thing. Why am I being ruled by an obviously inferior creature? In my first hours of life, I accomplished what you failed to do your entire career. If anyone should rule Mobius, it should be me.” So saying, the two-tailed robot wraps Robotnik with his fourth tentacle. The vulpine then takes his prisoners to the cells, dropping them roughly in. Two SWATbots appear and stand to guard the cell. “You miserable traitor,” Robotnik screamed. “How dare you do this to your creator. SWATbots, attack Silver Fox!” But the SWATbots just stood there. “I reprogrammed them to follow my orders now. Almost all the SWATbots in the city are under my control. Unfortunately, I can’t roboticize you four yet, or you might turn out like me, so you’ll have to stay here till I can get the roboticizor back to normal.” Silver Fox replied, “Don’t look so mad, Ivo. This was bound to happen.” Just then, the Freedom Fighters began to wake up. “Wha.... What happened?” Sonic stammered out, rubbing his head. Looking around, he sees Bunnie also starting to come to, though her arm isn’t with her. He also sees Robotnik yelling at Silver Fox, and notices that the dictator is also in the cell. “What’s goin’ on?” “It seems Robotnik’s new toy is no longer interested in being second banana.” Said Sally, “Apparently, the controls he put into Silver Fox don't work, and Silver Fox has decided he’d make a much better ruler than the Doctor.” “Well, Iron Lips, it seems you’ll have some company during your stay.” “AAAhhh!!!” “Bunnie?!” Sally asked. “Where’s mah arm? Ah can’t find it.” “Oh don't worry, Ms. Rabbot. Your arm is right here, along with Nicole.” Silver Fox points to a table outside the cell. “Now, I guess you’re all wondering what I intend to do with my new resources. I have determined that, although they don't pose a threat to me personally, the Knothole Freedom Fighters are a threat to my new empire. Unfortunately, I am not able to download all of Tails’ memories, so I can’t just walk out and slaughter Knothole.” At this, Sally sighed in relief. “So, I’m going to do what Robotnik never dared do. Soon, I will have several napalm bombs ready. I will drop these on the Great Forest and burn it to the ground, along with all the Freedom Fighters who dwell there.” “Way uncool. You’ll make that entire area uninhabitable for generations.” Sonic protested. “Oh, spare me. I don't think I should be concerned with that. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go and find Snively. I can’t have him running around and causing trouble, can I?” And, bowing in mock respect to Robotnik, Silver Fox leaves. “We HAVE to get out of here.” Sally said, “That monster can’t be allowed to burn the Great Forest done.” “And how do you propose we do that, Princess? I seriously doubt he is going to let us just waltz in and destroy his plans, even if we could escape.” Said Robotnik. “At least Antoine and Dulcy got away. If I had Nicole, I could warn them and Knot hole but she...” “That’s it!” interrupted Robotnik, “Nicole might be able to open the cell, If she wasn’t disabled. Silver Fox may have access to most of Robotropolis’ computers, but he doesn’t have access to all of the codes. Princess, have your computer access the cell computers and I’ll give it the code to open the cells.” “Nicole, establish radio link with Robotropolis cell computers.” Sally commanded. “Link established.” “The access code is, Rainbow.” Robotnik said. Sonic looked at him strangely, but didn’t say a word. Sally told Nicole the password and the cell shields dropped, and all four walked out. ************************************************************ ************ Back at Knothole, Dulcy, Rotor, and Antoine sit in the War Room, discussing the events that occurred earlier. Rotor was very worried about this new addition to Robotnik’s forces. Antoine was also clearly upset. “We must be going and rescuing zem. We cannot just let zis be. Zhe Prinzess, she is in danger.” “Cool down Antoine,” Rotor said. “If Tails has become as powerful as you say he has, then we have to take this slowly and carefully. If we get captured too, then that could be the...” Just then, a transmission form Nicole came in. The three animals were shocked to see Princess Sally, well and alive, appear on the video screen. “Dulcy, Antoine, I’m glad to see you made it back to Knothole safely. We’ve got a big problem on our hands.” “I know,” Rotor said, “they told me all about it.” “No, it’s gotten much worse. Silver Fox has taken over Robotropolis and he intends to use napalm bombs to obliterate the Great Forest. Not so tight, Robotnik.” A hard voice the Freedom Fighters knew only too well replied, “It has to give proper support, or else your leg will not heal properly.” “Sally, is that...?” “Yes Dulcy, it’s Robotnik. Like I said, Silver Fox took over Robotropolis, so he’s as much a threat to the Doctor as us,” Sally explained. “Okay Princess, just don't turn your back on him.” “We don't know where he’s going to launch his weapons from, but be ready to move. Evacuate Knothole’s residents to a fall back position outside the forest.” “All right Sally,” Rotor said. “Just don't stay there for long. Rotor out.” ************************************************************ ************ At the command center, Silver Fox sits in the chair of Robotnik, only slightly annoyed at the fact that he is too short to reach the floor from it. SWATbots and workerbots manned the computers, working at the metallic fox’s command. Just then, a SWATbot turned around, holding an armload of disks. “Sir,” It said, “all the files you wanted have been downloaded into these disks and deleted completely from the computers. Also, projects Omega and Destiny are respectively ready.” “And the Stealthbots?” Silver Fox asked. “They are almost ready to go. We await your further orders.: “Load as many SWATbots, Stealthbots, workerbots, hover- units, and other equipment into the Wing Fortress as soon as its modifications have been made. Also load Omega onboard. As soon as the Stealthbots have been armed, prepare to launch them.” ordered Silver Fox. “Yes sir.” “Now, give me the disks so I can download them into my memory. Then, destroy all the hard evidence, leaving no trace of anything even remotely connected to anything about me. That includes the new roboticizor.” The SWATbot gives Silver Fox the disks and leaves to carry out his orders. Silver Fox carefully places the disks into his drive, and begins to download. * * * In Knothole, everything was in chaos. Animals were running everywhere collecting essentials and valuables, making ready to evacuate, not only Knothole, but the Great Forest as well. Rotor was building a large basket for Dulcy to carry away people and supplies. Antoine was helping Dr. Quack get patients and medical supplies out of Knothole. They had called Knuckles, who had agreed to watch Robotropolis for Stealthbots while his island was in the vicinity, but was rapidly leaving. “Zis is terrible. We will all be destroyed eef we do not leave soon.” Antoine screamed as he packed a sterilizer and some surgical equipment. “Calm down Antoine, or I’ll sedate you. You’ve got to have faith that Sally and her group can help stop this. The best we can do now is evacuate as much as possible in the time we have.” Dr. Quack replied. “It would be so much easier eef we were like ze Wolf Pack. Zey were gone and safe an hour after we tolded zem,” Antoine stated, still very upset.. “Well,” Quack continued, “they are kinda nomads who move around a lot. We never planned on moving Knothole. Still, we should keep packing as much as we can.” “Oui,” Antoine said, continuing packing. * * * Dulcy busily adjusted the straps to her new harness, trying to compensate for the extra weight the basket added. She was very nervous about carrying people and supplies, because she was afraid she would crash. Rotor, though, was very calm. The walrus had been working diligently ever since Sally had ordered the evacuation, and he possibly just didn’t have the time to worry. “Dulcy, make sure it’s not too loose,” Rotor said. “You don't want it to start shifting on you in mid-flight.” “All right Rotor. Do you really think all this will work and help us get outta here?” Dulcy asked. “I hope so. But we can’t give up hope that Sally, Sonic, and Bunnie will come through for us. They might be able to stop Silver Fox,” answered Rotor. *I hope your right. You didn’t see this guy in action.* Dulcy thought to herself. * * * Meanwhile, in Robotropolis, Silver Fox oversees the loading of the Stealthbots with the napalm bombs. Just then, a message comes in from the Floating Island. “Sir,” said a communications-bot, “we are receiving a transmission from the Spybot on the Floating Island. I think you should listen to it, he has uncovered some interesting information.” “Very well, patch him through to me.” Silver Fox enters a silent conversation with the Spybot. His visual link allows him to see what the robot sees, and he begins to smile. “Wonderful, excellent news. Where is he now? Oh. Continue your job and keep me informed. Silver Fox out. Well, it looks like we’ll be changing our plans for Omega. Watch this orbit carefully.” Silver Fox again watches the workerbots load the Stealthbots, knowing that he would soon win this war. **************************** Robotnik had been trying to retake control of the SWAT- and Stealthbots. Sally, on the other hand, had been trying to locate the bombs. Bunnie and Sonic were more than a little upset over their own uselessness in these endeavors. “I just wish we could be more of a help than just wearing a rut in the floor,” Sonic complained. “Don't worry Sugarhog, we’ll be see’en some action right soon. We just need to find him first,” Bunnie said. “Arrrgh. He’s locked me out of my own system. I can’t even gain control of a calculator!” Robotnik yelled. “Don't get your tights in a knot, Robotnik,” Sonic said. “All we need to do is find him. I mean, Tails can’t have turned all bad. I refuse to believe that my little buddy would destroy the Great Forest.” “You are so naive, hedgehog. He is not the same fox he was. If worse comes to worse, we’ll have to find a safe way to destroy him,” Robotnik frankly stated. “He is far too dangerous to remain active.” “I am not going to hurt my friend just because YOU made a mistake,” Sonic yelled. “More than you kn....” “Will you two both be quiet. Nicole has found him. Silver Fox is in hanger one preparing the Stealthbots,” Sally said. “Let’s go, I know a shortcut,” Robotnik said. “Ah do hate ta sound gloomy and all, but have any of ya’ll thought what we’re gonna do against him?” Bunnie interjected. “We’ll have to cross that bridge when we come to it, Bunnie,” Sally answered. With that, the foursome headed for the hanger. ***************************** Over the plain between Robotropolis and the Great Forest, Dulcy flies for the city. On her back rides Antoine and Rotor. The three had decided on going on a rescue mission once the work at Knothole was complete. As they enter the city limits, several small flashes go off on a tall building, giving a Morse code signal to land. Dulcy complies, wondering who had sent the message. Walking out of the shadows the three Freedom Fighters saw; Snively. Rotor balled his fists, Antoine drew his sword, and Dulcy crouches into a pounce. “Wait,” Snively yells. “Don't attack. I’m not here for a fight. I need your help.” “And why should we help you?” Dulcy asked. “Because I can help you save your home. Silver Fox is becoming far too powerful. If we don't stop him now, we won’t be able to stop him later,” Snively answered. “I’m not sure if Doctor Robotnik OR the hedgehog are alive, so it’s up to us to stop Silver Fox.” “Well, we do know. They should be alive, along with Bunnie and Sally,” Rotor said. “Let’s see if we can’t find them. Maybe they have a plan on how to deal with him,” Snively said. The others nod, agreeing. ************************************************************ ************ Robotnik, Sonic, Sally, and Bunnie silently walk down the corridors of the Death Egg Command Center, making their way towards the hanger. Upon reaching it, Bunnie puts her ear to the door and what she hears, she doesn’t like. “That lil’ creeps gettin’ ready ta launch tha Stealthbots. We gotta make our move real soon, or Ah’m afraid we aren’t gonna be able ta do anythin’ about it,” Bunnie said. “So let’s juice in there and shut Silver Fox’s little operation down,” Sonic said, revving up, when Robotnik grabs him. “How have you stayed alive so long, hedgehog? If we just crash in there, he’ll tear us to pieces. We need a plan, and I have a plan,” and Robotnik begins to explain. ************************************************************ ************ Inside the hanger, Silver Fox smiles as the last of the bombs are loaded into the Stealthbots. A SWATbot walks up to him. “Sir,” it squawks, “We will be ready to launch the Stealthbots in five minutes.” “Launch when ready. I want the Great Forest to be nothing but ash by tonight.” “Don't bet on it, Metal Mouth!” Sonic yelled as he stepped in. “I’m shuttin’ you down. You are not going to burn down the forest.” “That should be interesting to see, Sonic. Especially since I hold all the cards,” Silver Fox retorted, ready for anything. He focused all his attention on Sonic, knowing the hedgehog was the most dangerous when you ignored him. However, this was where Robotnik’s plan went to work. Tails hadn’t known Sonic to play the part of a distraction often enough to associate the two, so Silver Fox could not see Sonic for anything but the main part of a plan to stop him. He didn’t notice the fact that Bunnie and Sally were sneaking for the bombs, while Robotnik went for the control board. Unfortunately, just as the Princess and rabbit were about to reach their objective, Bunnies leg squeaked. Not wanting to be distracted, Silver Fox used his sense of smell, and came up with all three of the previously unknown threat’s scents. “You! You dare to attempt to fool ME!” Silver Fox yelled. “You shall pay for your insolence!” “Juice time,” Sonic said, and then started to run at the metallic vulpine. Silver Fox stepped out of the way and began to move towards Robotnik. The dictator continues to work on the controls, knowing that if he fails, Silver Fox takes it all. Just as the robot is about to attack, Dulcy crashes in and lands on Silver Fox. From her back jumps Snively, Rotor, and Antoine. “Get off of me you overweight Wyrm!” Silver Fox commands. “Overweight Wyrm? Why you little jerk, I oughtta melt you into slag,” Dulcy retorted, struggling to keep the fox under her, pinned. “Sir,” Snively said. “We have to shut down the Stealthbots before they launch.” “I know, Snively. What do you think I’m trying to do?” Robotnik replied. The SWATbots, though, had other ideas. “Raise your hands, prisoners,” a SWATbot said, pointing its laser. Robotnik looked at it, eyes glowing, and suddenly fired a laser from his belt. As the robot fell, Robotnik went back to work and finally got inside the Stealthbots’ programming. Meanwhile, Dulcy still struggled to keep Silver Fox down. Unfortunately, Silver Fox was much stronger than he looked, and soon threw the larger dragon off him. A quick tentacle wrapped around her, smashing Dulcy into a wall and knocking her out. “You may think you’ve won, but you’ve lost it all,” Silver Fox said, supprisingly clam. Then touching his wrist he continues, “Launch Stealthbots!” “NO!!!!” the Freedom Fighters yell in unison. “Relax, the Stealthbots aren’t going anywhere. I have changed their programs,” Robotnik smiles, “Now, SWATbots, capture the traitor.” “I don't think so,” said Silver Fox, as he fires up his rockets. Once in the air, he turns towards his former friends and retorts, “You won the battle, you stopped my fun, but I vow my ‘friends’ this story is far from done.” And with that, he blasts out through the roof and escapes. “So, now what do we do, Sal? We have Robo here, but it might not be a good time for a battle,” Sonic states. “I’ll tell you what WE do, hedgehog,” Robotnik answers. “We form a loose alliance. It only just occurred to me that he could have killed us all by blowing the bombs. A quick scan revealed that they are empty shells. He made us think he was going to burn the Great Forest, but he must have had another reason.” “That still doesn’t tell me why we should team up,” Sonic said, impatient. “Think about it. Flying free out there is a creature that is smarter than Sally and me, faster than you, stronger than Dulcy by far, and more powerful than anything any of us has ever encountered. To top it off, he is virtually indestructible and uncontainable, as well as uncontrollable. Alone, neither of our groups would defeat him,” Robotnik replied. “As much as I hate to admit it Sonic,” Sally said. “he’s right. If we’re going to save Mobius, we HAVE to ally with; Doctor Ivo Robotnik.” She extends her hand to the doctor. “I’m glad to see you have agreed,” And Robotnik grasps Sally’s hand and they shake. ************************************************************ ************ Epilogue: Twenty miles out of Robotropolis. ************************************************************ ************ A small figure flies at a slow speed, laughing to himself. He had been flying for two hours at his own leisure, but had started smiling minutes after leaving Robotropolis. Silver Fox finally landed at a long hill, and entered a secret door. Upon entering, he is greeted by three SWATbots. “Sir, all provisions and supplies have been loaded as per your request. Your specified upgrade has been finished. The target has been locked and Weapon Omega is ready. We only await your presence on the bridge.” “Very good, 4026,” Silver Fox said. “You’re sure this machine will allow me to reconstruct any machine or technology I can touch or get a scanner on?” “It will take time to complete the effects, but when you install this, it will be so.” Silver Fox takes the box from the SWATbot and a small hole opens in his torso. The hole illuminated and Silver Fox places the box inside. “It is done. Now, take me to the bridge,” he commands. The SWATbots obediently obey. Once there, Silver Fox sits in a chair similar to the one in the Death Egg Command Center. On the screen before him is a space scene, with one oddity; a tower floating in orbit. “Raise the gun.” From the hill, a large gun barrel raises from the ground. “Now, as I understand it, we’ll have twelve seconds of this before the barrel melts. We have to get this in one try.” “Position locked, sir. Awaiting command.” “FIRE!!” Silver Fox yells. A short beam emits from the cannon as it melts. Silver Fox watches the screen as the beam slices through the tower and a small green glowing creature slips out. The creature then starts to head for Mobius at a reasonable speed for an organic life form. “Sir,” the SWATbot navigator asks. “Shall I plot his course so that we may intercept him?” “No need. I already know where he is heading,” Silver Fox stated. “Lay in a course that takes us into a five mile radius around the Floating Island. Let’s make sure we intercept him before he gets there and Knuckles doesn’t get to notice.” As the navigator punches in the coordinates, large engines power up and the visage of a hill is dropped, revealing the awesome Wing Fortress. It rises into the air and thrusts forward on its master’s dark plan. Inside, Silver Fox smiles. “Oh yes, Freedom Fighters. This story is far, far, far from done. Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha..” To be continued. . . . . . . ************************************************************ ************ Well, what do you think? This is my first Sonic the Hedgehog Fan-Fic, and I think it’s pretty good. I would like to hear comments from those who read this, as they may help with part two. Write me as Asher Tye. I would also like to reiterate that the character of Silver Fox is owned and operated by Cale Kuecker. If you wish to use him or the concept of his creation in your own story, please run it by me first, I’d like to know whose using my creation.