The Cloaked Figure-by Meghan Dombrowski

*Legal stuff*
Sonic the hedgehog is a copyright of Service and Games (SEGA), and on characters
crated by Archie Comic Publications, Inc. 

Mary, Sero, Jonathan and other characters in this story are copyrighted by me. 
Scooter, Sarah, and Tara are copyrighted by Jason Northage. Blah, 
blah.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Authors Note*
If you have ever read my first story  The RH series  (Ruby Hearts Series).  The Mary
in that story is not the same one used in this story. ( I like the name Mary).  Also
just in case there is any confusion one of the characters name is Twin T, please don't
get him mixed up with Cherna Gast's Twyn D
O.k. I done! Enjoy the story!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------  




It was a snowy winter morning, all was peaceful. Ever since Sonic and the freedom
fighters had defeated Robotnik every one could live in peace. The cities name had been
changed back to Mobotropolis. Sonic had been crowned king and Sally queen.  They also
had two children at the age of five.  A hedgehog boy named Scooter and a squirrel girl
named Sarah.  Tails had found the girl of his dreams, Tara who was his age. He had
gotten married to her few months ago.   Sally's father was rescued from the void and
had retired.  But, he sadly passed away a year ago.  Sonic's Uncle Chuck had created a
de-roboticizer and every one was back to normal. Uncle Chuck had also created many
non-pollutant devices to fight the pollution on land, air, and sea. Antwon had become
captain of the guards as he always wanted, but still was jealous of Sonic.   Bunnie,
had adopted a young rabbit girl, Kathryn or Kat as every one called her.  Rotor was
the same as he had always been making and fixing things, but was away traveling the
world. 
The whole city was peaceful on this  cold morning every one was in their warm homes,
grateful that they weren't on the cold city streets.  That was not the same for four
lone figures traveling in the city. They had traveled a long way and where lost, cold
and hungry.  They made there way towards the palace.  When they got to the gates they
stopped and put their tired backs against one of walls beside the gates. One of the
figures was a boy hedgehog intierly midnight black who's name was Sero, He was six
years old. Another figure was a dog brown in color who never talked . Then there was a
five year old light red tree squirrel named, Amy.  The last figure was a tall cloaked
figure who's face you could not see. Amy rested in the figures large backpack. The
other three huddled together for warmth. Sero refused to get in the backpack with Amy.
She tried to convince him that it was a lot warmer but, he still refused. 
If I go in the backpack who will stay out here an protect my mother and Serina. Sero
said. 
 You might catch a cold or something.  Amy said 
Let him stay out here Amy he will be fine with us. The Cloaked Figure said in a
friendly tone Now both of you get some sleep.  
The two obeyed an went to sleep.


        In the palace Scooter could not sleep and was pacing his room. He had been
pacing around  for over and hour now. He wanted an adventure but, how could he, His
parents where always being so protective of him and his sister.  He wanted it to be
like the old days when there was lots of adventure, he wanted to be like his father
going out and stopping bad guys.  
Scooter stopped and thought Hum...I know I can get past the gates but how am I going
to get out of this room without being seen by the cameras. He began to pace again and
stopped and whispered a name....Sarah! She was a computer whiz maybe she could fry
those pieces of junk.  
Scooter ran over to Sarah.  Sarah! Wake up! Scooter said in a hushed tone.  
Huh? Oh, what is it Scooter?  I wana sleep.  
Aww.. come on wake up. Scooter whined.  Let's go have an adventure.  
Sarah sat up and looked at her brother.  
Scooter, I have two questions for you. Said Sarah.  
Go ahead, You have two seconds of my time.  Scooter said tapping his foot.  
One, how are we going to get out of this room without being seen and, two if we do get
past the cameras how will we get to the gates without being seen by anyone? Hum?
replied Sarah  
You are going to fry the monitors  and I will run us to the gates. Besides all the
guards will be asleep. Scooter said with a smirk.  
Did I hear someone say adventure?  a voice said from behind them.   
Yeah, we're going on an adventure, would you like to come Kat?  asked Scooter 
You bet! I wouldnot miss it! Kat yelled.  
Quiet, Kat or they will hear us. Scooter said
Sara rolled her eyes and groaned.  
Well are you game, Sarah? Scooter questioned.  
If only you're feet where as fast as your mouth, yeah I'm game.  Sara said
disapprovingly.  
Luckily they were in a room where the main control panel for all the cameras had been
kept.  It was too high for any of them to reach so Sarah put a chair by the panel,
climbed on it and started to push some buttons.  
I'm waiting.   Scooter stated mimicking his father.  
Oh, be quiet I'm almost done....Got It!  Sara exclaimed. 
Well if we are going to go let's go. Kat urged. 
 A few seconds later they where at the gates with the help of Scooters feet.  Again,
they were lucky all the guards had fallen asleep. 
 Open gates code 342, please.  Scooter said.   
Are you sure this is going to work? Kat asked.  
It should .  I have seen my dad do it a million times. Scooter remarked. 
After he said that the gates opened. They where of on their adventure!  

        Sero was an early riser and woke up earlier than the rest.  He was sharpening
his small dagger that he always carries around when he saw three kids about his age,
sneaking out of the palace.  Sero put his dagger away and went up to talk to them.  
Hello who are you?  Sero asked.  
Scooter was startled because he thought it was someone he knew. Then he realized it
was a smaller hedgehog maybe a year older than himself.  
Um.. Hello my name is Scooter. This is Sarah my sister, and this is Kat.   
Hello.  Sarah and Kat addressed.   
My name is Sero, It is nice to meet you.  By the way where are you going , anyway?
Sero asked.  
We are off on a adventure. replied Kat.  
I think you would be better off in the castle, I bet it is warmer in there then out
here. Better food too.   
Nah, everyone always makes such a fuss over ya. No life for me, I can tell you that
much.  Scooter stated.  
Say you look tired would you like to sleep here for a bit and then we can play.    
Ya know I am tired.  Kat told the others. 
 So am I.  whined Sara.  
Thank you for the hospitality bro, but where will we sleep?  Scooter asked 
 On the ground of course, You can use my mothers cape to use as a blanket. Answered
Sero.  
 Sara made a disgusted face and thought, she a princess sleeping on the ground! It did
not really matter now she was too tired to care. 
 Sero stayed up and the others went to sleep.


        Bunnie walked in and pulled open the certain and said, Ok kids now it is time
for yall to wake up.  
She turned around and noticed that they where not in there beds!  
Oh my stars, where could they be?  Scooter?  Sarah?  Kat?  Where are yall?  
The next thing that Bunnie noticed that there was a chair put up under the main
control panel.  No, oh no.  Bunnie started to run straight to Sonic and Sally's room.
While she was running she remembered the last time the kids did something like this.
They did not find them for a week.
 Not bothering to use the communication monitor she pounded on the door not knowing
that they had just gotten up.   Sonic!  Sally!  Oh, please wake up!  she shouted.  
Hey, Hey stop that poundin' before you break the door down, Bunnie. Sonic yelled over
the pounding.  
Sally answered the door, Bunnie ran in and started to cry on Sally's shoulder.  
Bunnie why are you crying?  Sally asked 
The kids there gone! Scooter, Sarah , and my Kat! I can't find them anywhere!  
I think that Sara might have debugged the monitors  cuz' there is a chair pulled up to
it! Bunnie sobbed.  
Sally looked at Sonic with worry in her eyes.   Sonic did not even need to be told he
put on his old sneakers and ran out the door.

        When Scooter woke up he looked around for Sero instead of finding Sero he got
a snow ball in his face.  
Ha!  Got Ya!  Sero said laughing.  
Hey! No fair I was not ready! Scooter yelled.  
Come on wake up Sarah and Kat we can get them.  Sero snickered  
Scooter ran over to where Sero was and they started to make snowballs.  
When they had about twenty snowballs Scooter ran over with his speed and woke them up
quickly and ran back.  Kat yawned and got snow in her mouth and fell over.  
She picked herself up and woke Sarah up quickly.  
Sarah!  Sarah!  Wake up we are under attack!  she yelled.  
What do you mean, Kat? asked Sarah.  
Duck! yelled Kat.  
Huh?  Too late Sarah got hit with a snowball.   
Hey?! what do you think you are doing? Sarah questioned  
Sero and Scooter did not answer they where too overcome with laughter.  
Come on, Lets show them what we girls are made of.  Kat exclaimed.   
Both of the girls made snow balls and Sarah said  Oh, Boys. 
 Sero and Scooter looked up and got hit in the face with snowballs.  All right this is
war!  yelled Scooter.  
They played on till something moved in the backpack besides Sero.  
Hey, Buddy what's in the pack?  Scooter wondered.  
I will show you. Hey Amy want to come out and join the fun?  Sero questioned.  
What do you think?    
It unzipped itself and a five year old girl squirrel came out.  
Amy was a light red tree squirrel with a long bushy tail and blond hair with some
rubber bands tied to make it a ponytail.  
Hi, Scooter. Amy stated. 
How did you know my name? Scooter questioned.  
I have ears you know. 
Say Amy why don't you go over with the other girls they need all he help they can get.
Sero snickered.  
Sero and Scooter laughed and Amy stomped over to the girls.  She introduced herself to
them and they started the snowball war all over again.  They played till noon when the
Dog and the cloaked figure woke up.  Sero ran over and hugged the figure, Scooter
guessed that was his mom.   
Sero, Hun are you going to introduce my to your friends? The figure wondered.  
Mom, this is Sarah, Scooter and Kat.  Sero told his mom  
Did you now that you were playing with a princess and a prince.    
Sero only replied  Yes.  
Serina, will you come here please. The cloaked figure said.   
The large dog walked over and sat down by the cloaked figure.  
Come on you three we are going back to the palace.  Your parents must be worried sick.
You can ride on Serina's back.  The figure told them.  
There was a groan from the kids. They where having such fun.  Now they had to face
being punished from there parents.  They climbed on Serinas' back and rode to the
Palace.

        Right now nothing mattered to Sonic except finding his kids and Kat. He had
run all over the palace and no sign of them.  He stopped at the gates just to check
around there one more time and he could hear a faint pounding on the door.  He opened
it as quickly as he could hoping it was the kids.  The doors slowly opened and in
stepped a very large dog with the kids and two others. He did not know they were also
followed in by a cloaked figure a bit  taller than himself .   
Hello, Who are you? Sonic wondered .  
Everyone calls me The Cloaked Figure, but please call me Mary your majesty.  Mary said
and bowed.  
Yo, thanks a bunch. Sonic grinned 
Hey, Sally they're over here! yelled Sonic.   
Sally came running out in her vest and boots.   
Oh Sarah, Scooter!  she yelled.  
Bunnie soon followed Oh, my Kat!  Where have yall been?  Bunnie said tears flowing
freely from her eyes.  
Bunnie looked up and saw a cloaked figure, a very large dog and two kids.  
Oh, we have company.  she said 
 Sally did not even know they were there until Bunnie said so. 
Oh, I am terribly sorry my name is..., Sally started.  
Mary finished for her, Queen Sally Alicia Acorn.  she answered  
Uh, yeah how did you know?   I have never seen you before. Sally questioned. 
Lucky guess?  Mary joked.   
Sonic started to laugh.  
Ok, what is so funny? Hum?  Sally said tapping her foot. 
 I think we have met someone as smart as anyone of our computers! Sonic snickered and
still laughing asked  I bet you know my name, too.   
I know more than that, "You are  King Sonic Maurice Hedgehog Son of Jonathan Hedgehog
and Nephew to his brother Sir Charles Hedgehog".  Mary spoke in such a rapid tongue
that only Sonic understood what she said. But Sonic did not know why he understood it.
The language was so strange yet so familiar.   
Sonic stopped laughing and looked at her solemnly.  
Mary after you are given a tour of our palace will you see me in the throne room,
please?  
I bet you will be staying for awhile? Sonic spoke with his back turned.  
Yes ,your majesty.  Mary answered.  
If anyone needs me I will be with my Uncle.  
Before Sally could ask him what was the matter he ran off. 
I am going to find Sonic. Sally told them turned and walked off.  
She turned around after a few steps and spoke.  Sarah, Scooter I will deal with you
later.  She remarked.  
After Sally had gone Bunnie said to Mary,  
What did you say to Sonic to make him so sad?  Bunnie asked  
That is between him and his uncle, now.     
Bunnie sent the children off, and Mary sent her kids with them.  Sero and Scooter went
off to play. They had become very good friends in the short time they where playing.
Amy went with the girls to talk,  Bunnie and Mary went off talking themselves.  
Hey unc', I need to talk to you about something.  Got a minute?  .  
Uncle Chuck peered over his glasses, Of course I always have time.   He told Sonic.  
I know you have been hiding something from me all these years. Sonic exclaimed.  
Oh, and what is that? Uncle Chuck asked.  
You never once told me about my father,  Jonathan.   Sonic said coldly. 
Uncle Chuck looked surprised.  How.. How did you know his name?  he stammered.  Oh
,never mind, follow me.  Uncle Chuck opened up a passage in the wall.  
Only me and King Acorn knew about this. Uncle Chuck remarked  Not even Robotnik found
it.
Sonic was not listening he was going over so many things in his mind.  Why had he not
told him about this?  Why did he never mention his father even when he asked. His
uncle always changed the subject before he could get a direct answer.   
Bunnie had finished giving Mary the tour and said,  Me and ole' Sally have got to deal
with the kids.  
I hope to talk to yall soon! Bunnie shouted as she ran to the palace to meet Sally.  
Just then Sero came running up to Mary.  He did not say a word he just pointed to the
sky.  Mary pulled a telescope from her backpack and looked up.  She saw a brown two
tailed fox flying over head.  
Is it Twin T?  Sero whispered.  
Sure is.  Mary whispered back. 
Sero could not be quiet any longer.  All right it is Twin T!  
Amy will be so happy to see him!  Sero rushed off to find Amy.  
Mary knew when he would come down...at dusk.  Then the plan and journey would begin.  
Tails and Tara where enjoying a peaceful picnic, in the shade of a few trees.  
Are you enjoying you're lunch, Hun?  Tara questioned  
Sure am.  Tails replied. 
Tara was a golden brown fox with a long tail and golden hair.  She had a cheery
personality and was tails age.  His life was perfect.  He had Tara and there was no
more fighting (which he sometimes regretted.) and he could enjoy a picnic with his
mate.  Tails closed in to kiss Tara when something caught his eye.  He stood up to get
a better view.  
Is there anything wrong? Tara wondered 
 Tails did not answer he stood lockjaw staring at a dark brown fox spinning his tails
in a helicopter motion, the only thing was that they were under him and he was
hovering a few feet above the ground.  This only meant one thing the fox had two
tails!  
Twin T was not taking much care of hiding himself because if airborne he was faster
than anything.  He hovered and ate and apple.  
He said to himself, What a beautiful day, maybe I should take a vacation here.  He
glanced over and saw Tails running towards him.  
Uh-oh he said.  
He stopped hovering and went into fly mode and took off like and arrow in the sky.
Tails took off after him.
        
Uncle Chuck sat Sonic down on an old oak table.  Uncle Chuck got a few scrolls down
from an oak shelf.  
Well I'm waiting. Sonic replied  
Oh so much to tell.. I guess I should start form the beginning. First, I should tell
you that you weren't born anywhere near this city.  No much, much farther, A place
called Southwards.  In a village called Riverside. Your mother Rose died at childbirth
and left your father and me to take care of you.  Jonathan always said you where a
chip off the old block.  Always interested in running, barley anything else.  When you
where about one year old A band of filthy foxes and rats came to our village.  They
were lead by a large red tiger.  Though I can't recall his name all I know is that he
was worse than Robotnik.  They read us notes and rules of death and slavery.  They
burned our homes and killed many.  This was more than you're father could stand he and
a large group of "Freedom Fighters" built a tunnel, many families escaped but, the
large group stayed with Jonathan as their leader.  Me and you were the last to go, but
they found us.  Jonathan told me to go. I was reluctant at first and I did not want to
leave him there to die, but the words...the last words I heard from him were:  "I have
lost nearly everyone I either knew or loved.  Rose, Silver and others. You are the
last, I won't let theses villains take my brother or my son , now go!"  I crawled
through the tunnel and it caved in before I could get Jonathan.  
He spoke then like a true warrior.   I never knew what happened to him.  No doubt they
killed him.
I continued to walk for days I had lost my bearings and all my hope.  One day I ran
across a fox all dressed nice and fancy.  After what happened to Jonathan I did not
want to trust a fox again.  I could not kill him, nor could I ignore him.  He looked
my age, 25 if I remember correctly.  Anyway he looked lost too I walked over to him.  
He drew a sword and asked me Are you friend or foe?  
Friend I hope.   
Who are you? 
  You don't know me?  I am Richard Acorn  If I don't get back to the palace in time
I'm going to miss my own ceremony.  he told me 
Now I knew I definitely could not kill him he was a prince. 
 If I help you will you help me? I asked him  
Sure, Uh what is your name, sir?    
My name is Charles Hedgehog, please call me Chuck.  
We traveled for two weeks.  I built many things to help us keep warm and alive.  When
we got back there was a grand ceremony and Richard was crowned king.  Later on he made
me a knight for my knack with inventions, and my loyalty.  He gave us a nice house and
made sure we were to be taken care of.  I think you should know the rest.  Uncle Chuck
finished his story.  Sonic pounded his fist on the oak table nearly breaking it. 
Why did you never tell me? Sonic yelled, about to burst into tears.  
Jonathan told me never to, he wanted you to find out for yourself,  Jonathan knew he
might die that day, and he wanted me to tell you when you old enough to understand.  
That war is probably still going on today.  Uncle Chuck told  Sonic.  Sonic walked out
the way they came in, not saying anything to his Uncle.  
When Sonic was gone Uncle chuck whispered as if to himself  I'm Sorry.
        
Sonic met with Mary in the throne room.  
I just want to know two things.  Sonic began  What do you look like under there and
where do you come from?  
Can I trust you?  she questioned  
Trust me?  Of course, why do you ask?   
What I am about to show you revolves around trust.  The king and queen did and I am
wondering If you can.   
You can trust me. Sonic said   
Mary pulled off her hood.  Sonic gasped at what he saw it was a human!  She had
emerald green eyes, long golden hair and tanned skin.  The last time he had seen a
human was when they where fighting Robotnik.  
You're.... You're.. Sonic stammered. 
 Yep, sure am and you probably won't believe  I am a native to this planet, but I need
you to come with me.  
No way I will not....but before he could finish  Mary ran up to him grabbed his throat
and pushed him up against the stone wall.  
You are coming with me whether you like it or not. She told him coldly.  
She put a small tube around his nose and Sonic began to get sleepy a few more seconds
and he was a sleep.  Mary put him into her backpack.  Sonic fit easily.  
To answer you're last question she started..I come from Southwards.
        
Tails had finally lost sight of the fox just before sunset. He was astounded and
confused at the same time.  He had always thought that he was the only two-tailed fox
on Mobius.  He watched the sun go down and thought I am going to owe Tara a big
apology after this.  
Tails continued to fly back to the castle. Little did he know that the two-tailed fox
was already there.  
Yo, Are ya ready?  Twin T stated              
Yeah now if Sero, would hurry up, the guards are likely to see the tape of me taking
Sonic down.  
Sero was snaking out of the castle when Scooter walked up to him and said Take me with
you I don't care where you are going but, take me.  
O.k., come on.  The two ran out to meet Sero's Ma. 
 Ah, here comes Sero, Serina and Amy, Oh and there is someone else with them.  Mary
remarked.  
Sorry we are late but we had to make last minute plans... he pointed to the hedgehog
behind him.  
Scooter!  Why him?  She asked.  
I have a felling that he may come in handy, besides he will be my friend  and the guy
needs an adventure. 
Sure do, castle life is too boring for me.  Scooter replied 
Do you know what we are facing?  Mary noted  
Yes, mam Sero explained it all.  Scooter replied  
 Serina, You take Sero and Scooter and we will meet you at to Dead Bones Tell no
Tales.  
Me, Twin T, Amy and Sonic will meet you there. Is everything in order?  Ok let's go!
Mary yelled.  
Scooter could not really remember how they got out the palace gates or how Twin T and
the others got out but one thing was for sure he was out on his adventure at last!
        
The next day in early afternoon Sally was sitting on the balcony of her room looking
out towards the sky.  She was getting very worried she had not seen Sonic since the
meeting with Mary and her party.  Last night she thought he would be there but, when
she woke up he was not... and the worst part was that no one not even Sarah could find
Scooter!    
You're Highness!  You're Highness! Antwon yelled
Yes Antwon, have you found Scooter? Sally asked   
I really think zee should look at this video tape ,no?  Antwon said  Sally put it into
her v.c.r.  The taped Showed that Mary was a human and attacked and stuffed Sonic into
her backpack.  Then the tape ended.  
Oh-No...no Sally said and started to cry. 
Oh Antwon, where could they have taken him? 
She looked at the fox with tears in her eyes.  
I do not know, My queen.  Antwon told her  
I bet I do.  A voice said.  
Uncle Chuck!  I did not hear you come in.  Sally exclaimed  
Antwon, could you excuse us?   
Sure, zing Uncle Chuck. Antwon said leaving.  
They might have taken him back to Southwards.  Uncle Chuck told Sally.  
Southwards? Where is that? Sally wondered  
It is where Sonic was born. he stated  I really don't have much time to tell you the
story. I am heading off tonight with Tails, I will bring Sonic back I promise you
that.  
With that Uncle Chuck got up and left the room.  He met tails outside the gates.  The
two set off for the great forest.  Sally watched them go from the balcony of her room.
Deep in her heart she knew they would come back.
        
Dead Bones Tell no Tale was a two day travel from the palace, The city, and even the
Great Forest.  Mary knew a shortcut and it got them there a lot quicker. Then it would
be a days walk  till they get to Southwards.  That is if they survive, Southwards was
the type of place that is found by accident, a world within a world. If you could find
that forest it was like a gate way to Southwards.   They decided to make camp for the
night for Mary knew it was not a wise thing to sleep in that forest.  Mary took Sonic
from her backpack and woke him up, they would need his help getting through the
forest. 
Wake up! Sonic wake up!  Mary said splashing water on his face.  
All right who is the wise guy?  he asked madly.  
Right here.  Mary joked and smiled.  
All right who do you... hey where are we?  he wondered  
Will you help us get through Dead Bones Tell no Tale?   Mary wondered  
Why do you need me?  You still have not answered my question. Sonic said
 Mary once again spoke in the fast tongue which translated into  Do you want to find
your father?  she said with a smirk.  
How do I even know if he is alive.  Sonic thought 
Beyond this forest is a full days walk to get into the borders of Southwards.  
Why, I can get us through this forest.  No problemo.  Is that the reason you needed
me?    
It is not that easy Dad.  Scooter replied  
What are you doing here?  Did they drug you too?  Sonic asked to his son.  
No, I came on my own accord.  Scooter said as bravely and older as he could.  
There was silence for a while Mary awoke the conversation again.   
No, we cannot run through the forest they don't call it what it is for no reason.
Their is a tribe of brutal tree rats they kill and eat anyone who trespasses on there
territory.   All they wear is the bones of the dead.   
Sounds creepy,  So when do we go in?  Sonic wondered   
First light...Hopefully they will have eaten by then of they will be watching us.
Mary said   
Everyone said their good-nights and went to sleep.
        
Uncle Chuck showed some excellent tracking skills that no on, not even Sonic, knew he
had. It was getting dark and they had settled down for the night. Uncle Chuck said to
Tails,  Thank you for coming with me Tails.  I don't think I could make it with out
you.    
Oh, sure you could have.  Tails replied.  
Nah, I'm not as young as I used to be.  Uncle Chuck said trying to be cheerful.   We
might as well get some sleep we will be walking a long time tomorrow.    
Sure I could use some,  good-night.  Tails yawned and fell a sleep.   Uncle Chuck
whispered silently to himself 
 Brother keep Sonic and my grandnephew safe.  For he knew where they could be now,
Where Dead Bones Tell no Tales, and he barley made it out with his life.
 
        Dawn had approached quickly Mary was not kidding when she meant first light.
They where all out and ready to go by late morning.  They started into the woods.
They could hear scratching, some squealing and the faint sound of bones rattling.
Mary knew the rats had not eaten and were watching them, just waiting to pounce.
Halfway through they heard singing " Shiver my timbers, Shiver my spine.  Live ones
walk where dead ones lie.  Shiver my timbers,  Shiver my Soul  Dead animals tell no
tale!"   Then there was a large gun shot.  All of them seemed transfixed neither of
them could move or speak.   Then all these hideous rats came down on ropes with bones
on there bodies.  There where some still had rotting flesh on them.   The rats began
to close in a circle  ready to kill them.  Sonic could see the mad glow in there eyes,
but was not afraid. Just as they thought that they where goners there was a twang of a
bow and seven of the rats on the left fell dead an arrow through there unprotected
underbellies.  There was a hiss from the leftover rats and they turned to see who had
killed there comrades.  When they saw who it was they chattered as if cursing them.
Then they turned and ran in fear.  A red rabbit and a white mouse came over to the
travelers. They splashed water on there faces to get them out of the trance. 
 Nasty beasts wot, wot?  the rabbit said  I do say are you chaps o.k?   
Yeah we are fine, who are you?  Sonic wondered   
Before they could answer Mary came running up Bruno!  Snowy!  It is me, Mary!  Mary
shouted   
Oh, Mary you're back!  Snowy said   We thought we would never see you again!  Is
little Amy with you?  Her mum and dad have been worried sick and before I forget
you're plan worked we got the king and queen out safely.   
Yo, I'm sorry to break up this happy reunion but we better get out of this forest
before those things come to their senses.  Sonic told them  
 I like the way you think ole' chap.  Bruno said   
Why, thanks you are not so bad you're self. Sonic replied 

A short while later when they where clear of the forest, Bruno stopped.  
 I say ole' chaps I do think we are clear of the forest what not.  
We are sorry for our manners we have not been formerly introduced I am Snowy Hilltop a
nurse for all the ones who have been hurt in battle and my friend over there is Bruno
Bunny, expert tracker and footfighter. 
Nice to meet ya, The name is  Sonic the Hedgehog and this is my son Scooter.  
Hello.   Scooter replied.  
We best make camp tonight.  Tomorrow we will be in Red's territory and it is best to
sneak in at daylight after they have all have had there rum and beer.  Mary said   
They made camp after all the kids where asleep Sonic and the rest went on talking
about the war and other things.  Sonic got up and went over to Mary. 
 Can I talk to you please...alone.  he said 
 Mary said nothing and went with him.  
Do they know?  Sonic asked  
Mary nodded and replied every one here knows and they don't care.  Mary once again
pulled off her hood. 
 One other thing who is Red?  Sonic asked 
A very big and fierce red tiger.  I can tell you one thing this is not the first time
he has attacked Southwards.  All though last time he did not get so far.  I think the
village he attacked was......Mary started.  
Riverside.  Sonic said with a red glint in his eye.  
Uh, yeah how did you know  Mary wondered.
Red killed my dad,  Sonic said
I'm sorry maybe I should not have talked about it.  Mary stated 
Nah, at least some good came out of it. Sonic said Come on let's get back ta Bruno and
Snowy.
When they got back, Bruno and Snowy had already gone to sleep.  
I think we should take there advice, Sonic.  Mary remarked 
Sure, good-night. Sonic said  

        What is this place, Uncle Chuck?  Tails asked It is so dreary.
I don't think you want to know.  he replied, remembering the fist time he had seen it
himself.
Uncle Chuck and Tails stood there for a few minutes looking into what seemed a black
hole and not a forest.   Just then two squirrels ran by them and in to the forest.
No wait don't go in there! Uncle Chuck shouted but it was to late the young squirrels
ran in.  
Still in viewing range Tails and Uncle Chuck saw something that they will never in all
their lives forget.   Rats came down by the tons eating, clawing and chewing at the
squirrels when they where done nothing remained but bones.
Come on we have to keep going. Uncle Chuck whispered
There going through the woods was a lot easier than Sonic and his party had faced.
They were actually very lucky that those squirrels had come or that could have been
them.

Halt who goes there, mates.  A large black rat said 
I do and don't call me mate, scum.  Sero told them steeping out of the shadows.
Aye, it's that little hedgepig' that got us in trouble with Red, Scumtooth. 
That it is mate, let's teach him not ta mess with us.  Scumtooth replied coming
towards Sero.
Then Sonic stepped out of the shadows, both of the rats squealed in fear.
How...How can you be alive, we killed ye.  Scumtooth stammered 
Yeh, we threw you in that ditch.
What are you talking about I have never seen you before... Sonic started then Mary
whispered to him Play along, they are very superstitious. 
Sonic took a step towards them they turned and ran.
That was easy, but what did they mean how can I be alive? Sonic questioned.
I dunno, Sonic.   Mary said.


        What do you mean you saw a ghost?  Red shouted at the two rats.
We..We did.  We saw that hedgehog you killed.  One of the rats told Red.
How may times do I have to tell ye there is no such things as ghosts!  Red continued
to yell.
But...but, we did.  Scumtooth  replied
Enough!  Red screamed running a sword through the two rats  And if I hear any one else
say one thing about a ghost they get the same! 
Sir.. a small red fox said  That cloaked hedgehog, slayed ten of our troops, took some
more weapons and supplies. 
Oh, Mange what do your visions say about this?  Red questioned his seer who was a fox.
I am sorry my lord but, my visions are still blurred by that hedgehog you slayed years
ago.
Incompetence! That is what I am surrounded by incompetence! Red shouted  All of you
back to your post keep an eye out for the new comers.
 
     Come on sonic, this way.  Mary shouted
How much farther I hate going this slow.  Sonic complained
Run ahead if you want just keep going straight.  Mary said Don't worry we will catch
up.
Sonic started to run straight as Mary had told him but was stopped by some one,  a
hedgehog his size wearing a cloak and carrying a stave.  All sonic could see was his
eyes. 
Sonic thought, oh no not another clone of me.  Sorry bud, but I have ta pass.  he said
Sez who?  the figure said and judging by the tone of his voice sonic guessed that he
was as old as his uncle.
Sonic the Hedgehog that's who.   he exclaimed
Sonic...The figure's eyes started to change and pulled of his hood.
Sonic stared at what seemed to be himself.  The color was a bit lighter, and this
hedgehog also had bushy eyebrows like his uncle. He also had a scar running down his
eye and his top quill was cut.
It's me, Jonathan you're father.  he stated
No way my dad was killed by Red. Sonic said.
I can prove it to you.   Jonathan started
O.k. 
Jonathan pulled a locket out of his pocket and threw it to Sonic.  Sonic caught it and
opened it. Inside was a picture of him and his mom and dad.  Sonic shut the locket and
looked at Jonathan and said Dad is it really you. 
He nodded
Sonic ran up to him tears rolling down his eyes and hugged him so hard that it could
have killed him.
I have missed you.  Sonic said
I have missed you too, Sonic.  Jonathan replied 
How come you are alive?  I mean, I thought Red killed you?   Sonic asked
He did.  Jonathan remarked
I don't understand how could he kill you and still be alive? 
Well after he had run about thirty knives through me, he threw me in a ditch, where
for some reason I remained alive. Maybe about two days later Mary found me and took me
in till I was well. Then we formed a group to fight Red. We have been planning a big
plan to kill him off, and that plan, my son, is going on tonight.
Mary saved you're life didn't she?  Sonic asked 
Yes Jonathan replied 
I will have to thank her for that.  Sonic wondered
See Jonathan I told you I would bring you're son back, and I also have another
surprise I have you're grandson too.  Mary said
Man, I guess I really haven't seen you in a while.  Jonathan laughed.
Dad this is my son Scooter, Sarah is back at home.  Sonic told his dad 
Hello.  Scooter replied
 Jonathan rubbed his head and Said I guess I can ask who you married later right know
how's about helping me deal with red.
You bet.  Sonic replied
Come all of you I will take you to Amberwind, and as for you Amy I think you're
parents will be happy to see you.
Yippee!  Amy shouted 
Scooter, come with me I will show you where I live.  Sero whispered 
Scooter and Sero turned away from the others. They soon approached a door along side a
hill Scooter guessed that was Sero's home.  He lead Scooter in an stopped at a small
trunk.
Don't you live with you're mom?  Scooter questioned 
She's not my mom, this is a picture of my mom.  Sero said showing Scooter a picture. 
The picture Scooter guessed was very old.  It showed Sero, his dad who was a black
fox, and a his mom who was hedgehog emerald green in color, it also had a picture of a
human on it. 
Then why do you call Mary your mom?  He wondered
She was a dear family friend, so close to our family that my mom called her a
secondary mother.  Red, like he did with most family's, killed my mother and
Slashthroat killed my father, so Mary took me in but, I prefer to live on my own when
I can.  Here take this.  
He handed Scooter a Bow and arrow.
Hey, I learned how to shoot one of these things at the palace.... He looked at bow and
at Sero and said I can't accept it.
Go on, take it you will need some type of weapon in battle.  Sero stated.
In battle!  Ya mean... Scooter's voice trailed off and nodded his head.   What are you
gonna use?
Sero pointed to his dagger and replied It is much better than a sword, besides it was
my dad's.
Come on let's get back, it is getting dark and the battle for Southwards is going to
start.


        Slashthroat Red's top commander fox came into Reds chambers and said  Sire, We
have found out the identity of the cloaked hedgehog.
Ah, yes do tell me.  Red sneered.
He is the rebel hedgehog you killed years ago. Jonathan.  Slashthroat marked.
I wonder.. Red said thinking.
Sire, there is more he has a son and Mary the other rebel has brought him here.
Slashthroat replied
So it has begun. This is the final battle,  Slashthroat go out and rally the troops
also send a message to that cursed hedgehog.  Red remarked.
Yes, master.  Slashthroat bowed
And Slashthroat if you do a good job there might be a very good reward in store for
you. 
Slashthroat gave a sly smile and went to do his task.  Maybe Slashthroat thought he'll
let me kill of that little Sero as my revenge. Slashthroat touched a scar that ran
down his ear and neck.


        Looks like we have lost the element of surprise.  Jonathan said.
Yeh, but now it won't be so easy. Mary replied.
Hummm.. Sonic said while looking down at some maps
What are you looking at?  Jonathan asked Sonic
These maps...what if we where to schedule a place fer Red to meet us?   A place where
we would have the advantage.  Sonic stated
Jonathan looked down at the map his son was looking at.  It was a place where a forest
ended and a meadow began. Yes I see. Mary can you get a replied message to Red. 
Sure can.  Mary remarked. 
As soon as Mary had left Twin T walked in telling them that he had found some
travelers and that they wanted to speak with you.
Who are they, Twin T?  Jonathan wondered.
One's name is Tails and the other is Charles.  Twin T said 
Chuck?  Jonathan said surprised
Let them in T, They're friends. Sonic said 
As soon as Uncle Chuck walked in and saw Jonathan, he could not believe it.  After a
few seconds Jonathan gave his brother a hearty hug and started to talk for a few
minutes while Tails talked with Sonic.
Who is that? Tails questioned pointing to Jonathan.
That's my dad ,big guy. Sonic said smiling
Cool I am going to have a talk with that brown two tailed fox...um what is his name?
Tails asked
Twin T.  
Cool, I'm out of here.
With a few hours delay, they were ready to go.  There plan was sure-fire. 


Red was out in the field waiting, then he heard something.  Only one sound compared to
what he was hearing it was the sound of whizzing arrows, but before he could tell his
front line troops to move they fell dead.
Troops! Rally to me! Red said.  Slashthroat take every archer you have and put then up
on the front line and I mean every good archer.  
Soon it looked more like a shower of arrows than a fight, but for many months this
went on neither side thinking of what to do next.  
This is not working. Sonic said.  We have to get down into the meadow. 
A badger came up to him and said, Sonic there is a passage that we can use, it leads
way behind Reds army. 
Thanks, any suggestions?  Sonic replied
If we keep up the arrows it could provide a distraction.  Mary suggested
No, we are almost out of arrows.  Sero said 
What if Tails and Twin T where to fly higher than the arrows and just throw rocks down
at them.   Scooter wondered
Hey that might just work!  Sonic said Good thinkin'.  Sonic remarked 
Hey Tails! Twin T! Come ere'.  Sonic yelled  
As soon as they got there Sonic explained the plan. The both agreed to it.  They where
both carrying a sack of large rocks.  It was tough going for them neither were used to
carrying so much weight on there backs.          
Are you ready Tails?   Twin T shouted.
Bombs away!  Tails yelled as he dumped the bag down.
        What is going on?  Red yelled as many of his troops were getting killed or
hurt by the rocks.  Don't just stand there you pieces of slab.  Shoot them! 
Many of the archers shot into the air ,but none could hit Tails or Twin T. 
Oh!  Do I have to do every thing my self!  Red shouted as he grabbed an bow from a
near by rat.  
Red shot two arrows in the air, it had hit Twin T in-between the shoulder blade and
one in the tail.  Twin T was falling.  Just before he hit the ground Tails was able to
grab him by his one good arm.
Hold on T, we are almost there. Tails sobbed.
Sonic saw them coming and yelled  Snow, get over here quick Twin T is down!
Tails lad Twin T down so Snowy could examine him.
He is going to be fine all he needs is some rest.  Snowy said 
Hey Tails....Sonic started but found Tails was not besides him. Where is Tails?  
I saw him over by that big tree.  a raccoon replied.
Sonic ran over to where the raccoon said Tails might be, Sonic found him by the tree
crying.
Hey big guy, Twin T is ok.  Sonic told Tails.
Yeh I know.  Tails said.
Well then why are you crying? 
Ya know when we were fighting Robotnik and you guys always said I was to young to go.
Yeh, So.  
Now I know what it is like.  
Yo, Tails when you feel better maybe you should keep with the plan. Twin T would laugh
at ya seeing you mopping about  like this.
Ya think so?  
If I know Twin T.
Thanks, Sonic. 
No, prob let's get back.
        Hey Sonic, Tails come on Jonathan needs you to go into the tunnel with him
that rock fiasco sent Red crazy.  a small fox said.  See ya, Tails.  Sonic yelled 
See ya.  Tails said lifting a bag 'o' rocks on his back. 
Come on, Dad. Scooter said at the tunnel.
Wait a minute where do ya think you are going? 
With you. Me and Sero have a plan of our own. 
Sonic tapped his foot on the ground thinking and replied  Nope sorry, I don't want you
to get hurt.
Scooter lowered his head and said, O.k. Grandpa is already in the tunnel.  
Sonic sped in.  There was a rustling in the bushes behind Scooter, So we going?  Sero
asked
Yeh, come on.
        A small piece of ground opened up not far from Reds army. 
Looks like there is not many of them left, Sonic.   Jonathan remarked.  
Yeh I guess about forty out of the sixty he had.
Come on Charge!  Jonathan said as they rushed out of the tunnel. 
Huh?!? Red said as he saw the enemy advancing on him.  Don't just stand there you
dolts attack!
As soon as the first sword met staff, the clouds rolled over and became a midnight
black.  Rain started to pour in sheets, but neither side cared.   Two small figures
rested in the background none other than Sero and Scooter but, they where not alone
they had recruited twenty animals.
Are you ready?  Sero wondered
Yeh Let's move.  
Charge!! The both screamed.
Both sides looked to see who was coming when Red saw the calvery.  He sensed that the
jig was up, he was going to loose the war.  He slayed the first animal in front of him
and began to run.
Good job Scooter!  Sonic yelled  How come you never told us.
Surprise? 
Sure am, come on lets get im'.
Slashthroat looked around for Sero and yelled Come on out and fight you little coward!
Or are you just like you mother and father weak and helpless!  We will see who is the
chicken after I am through with you!  Sero yelled.  Sero's small dagger met
Slashthroat's sword. Each hoping the other would die slowly and painfully.
A few seconds after the new army had arrived a mouse said Sonic Red is heading for the
cliffs!  and pointed towards the cliffs.
Beyond the meadow not a far away stood jagged rocks that everyone called The Cliffs.
Sonic could just barely make out Reds shape but, his color was unmistakable.  Not
bothering to tell any one, he started to run towards Red.  Red looked over his
shoulder and saw him coming. Knowing he could not outrun him and being closest to the
cliffs he hid behind a rock. When he heard Sonic coming he put his foot out which
tripped him.  Sonic went flying but, luckily stopped before a cliffs edge.  His luck
ran out when, Red ran over and grabbed Sonic's throat.  Putting Sonic over the edge of
the cliff 
Red sneered and said,  Who will save you now, hedgehog.  Red began to loosen his grip
on Sonic.  Sonic looked down into what seemed to be an endless pit of nothing but
blackness. 
Sonic thought to himself, there is no way am I'm going down by some stupid tiger.
As soon as Red let go of him Sonic grabbed his arm, catching Red off guard, and taking
him down with him.
Arggh!! Red screamed as he and Sonic where falling, falling. Sonic looked around for
something to grab on to.  Noticing he had fallen closer to the cliff and he grabbed on
to a ledge jutting out. Red kept falling down in to nothing and eventually hit the
bottom.
Sonic mumbled to himself, Good riddance and started to climb the cliff.  
When he got to the top his father was waiting. 
Well.. he began. Where is Red ?
Down where he won't cause any more trouble.
That is good to hear. You know you did Southwards a great deal of service today.
It is not the first time.
Oh..
I can tell ya later.
Look the sky has cleared.  Jonathan said looking at the sky.  When they got back
everyone of Red's army had been killed. Slashthroat had gotten his fight with Sero
but, had lost.  
Many of the freedom fighters where wounded but, none were severally hurt.  Every one
had a round of cheers, for Sonic and others.   Sonic was getting ready to go.  This
time he would take his father back to meet Sally.  Scooter was staying behind with
Sero.  He and Amy had formed a relationship during the war and had decided to stay
with her as well.  Still it took a few hours to convince Sonic. Twin T had gotten a
bit better and had insisted on going back with Tails. Mary had also decided to stay in
Southwards till everything back at the palace could be set straight.  Yes, now the
whole planet could be free of evil or can it?
        Down at the bottom of the cliffs Reds body laid.  Not moving. In awhile he
started to move his fingers.  This meant only one thing Red was alive!  Red could
sense that he was going to need time to repair his body. One cruel thought was racing
through his twisted mind " Find and kill Jonathan's entire family."  "Find and Kill.
Find and Kill"



                                        The End?