Zeusthefox

(A few minutes prior) Sarah wrote down the name of another patreon as they came in. "Enjoy." She said to the customer. She looked at the door, not seeing anyone coming. She took the moment to set the note pad down and stand up. "Easy day. Fortunate for me and the new guy." Sarah said as she stretched. The Hedgehog peaked intot he party room. She quickly spotted Zaran. He was sitting and talking with Sky. "I have a hard time believing he's a Fox, he's built like a wolf....and those eyes....he sure is something." Sarah muttered to herself. "I wonder if he's seeing anyone.. " she giggled. She pulled her eyes from the Fox and sat back at the desk. "Maybe I should ask Sky about h-" Her thought was cut off by the sound of the front door opening. A pair of footsteps entering. She quickly looked up with a smile, about to welcome the guest... but her smile quickly dropped, instantly recognizing the two walking towards her. "Hey Babe, I hope this dump has gotten its act together." Scourge says ashe and Fiona approach her. Sarah quickly reaches under the counter for the emergency button, but her arm is caught. "Hey, what are you up to? We were only here to have some fun!" Fiona said with a cruel smile on her face. Sarah kicks away from the desk, pressing the button with her foot. "You two aren't welcome here!" Sarah said with a scowl as she yanked her arm from the vixen's grip."Now let go of me!" "Oh ho....the new Bouncer's got some energy." Scourge said as he walked over. Sarah is stepping back. "How about I knock it out of you?" Sarah's fist tightened. She wanted very much to slug this creep. "You want to take a swing at me?" Scourge said as he got in her face. A bead of sweat rolled down her cheek. "Try it... go ahead, give me one good swing." Scourge Taunted. Sarah tried to raise her arm... but she couldn't find the courage... she knew she was no match for him. "That's what a thought." Scourge said with a sadistic grin before raising his hand. Sarah tried to move, but his hand came across the Girls cheek, knocking her down. As this happened, the door to a side room opened as two guys rushed in. A Boar mobian and a Bear Mobian. "You two aren't welcome here! Get the heck out!!" The bear said. "Beat it or we'll make you leave!" The boar said, cracking his knuckles. Scourge and Fiona looked at each other before chuckling. "Oh, please." Fiona scoffed. Scourge was on the both of them in an instant quickly kicking the bear to the ground with a swift and strong kick to the torso. The Boar tried to grab him, but Scourge delivered a swift punch to his face, knocking the boar down. The two got to their feet and quickly tried again, but it was clear Scourge was too much for them. Sarah heard the music cut out in the party room, and sure enough, several patrons stepped in to see what the noise was. Sarah used this as an opportunity to get away. Scourge noticed Sarah and laughed. As jogged over and pulled her by her quills, earning him a squeak of fear from the poor girl. "Looks like we got an audience." Scourge said, chuckling. Sarah tried to pry his hands off of her hair, but Scourge just dropped her as he turned to the crowd. "EVERYONE RELAX, THE PARTY KING HAS ARRIVED!!!" Scourge declared. Sarah looked at the crowd seeing Sky watching, a frustrated scowl on her face, next to her Zaran came into view and looked stunned by what he was seeing...before his eyes narrowed into his own Furious Scowl. _____________________________________________ "Of course they'd show up.." Sky growled. "That monster." Zaran hissed, his eyes falling to the two unconsious mobians and Sarah who looked seriously distraught. This made Zaran's blood boil. He felt Sky's hand land on his. "Don't be hasty My friend, Scourge isn't a pushover." "Neither am I..." Zaran said, scowling at the pair of troublemakers. "What's with all the dirty looks!? Thought this place was a party!" Fiona scoffed. "Not for you two. You're not welcome here, remember." Luke said, stepping forward. Scourge laughed. "I could hardly care. I can go where I please and do what I want." Scourge zipped up to Luke, getting in his face, an action that makes Zaran growl. "..And unless you and your little girlfriend have gotten stronger since last time, I suggest you back off." Fiona snickers at Luke. But her amusement is cut short as she sees a grey blur move towards Scourge. Luke growls. "You two are the worst, a Bully nothing more." Scourge smirks as he pulls back to deliver a punch to the octopuses face, but his hand is caught. Scourge quickly looks back to see Zaran holding his arm. "GET OUT." The Fox ordered. "Who the hell do you think you are!?" Scourge scoffed as he tried to sucker punch Zaran with his other hand, but the Fox caught his other arm as well. "The New Bouncer." Zaran said as he brought his head against Scourge's nose hard. "I don't tolerate Punks like you harassing good people." Scourge recoiled in pain, holding his nose. "SON OF A-," Scourge said, tears in his eyes as he pinched his nose. Fiona growls at the Fox as she pulls Scourge to his feet and rips his hands from his face to look at her boyfriends nose. "You're not bleeding. Kick his ass." Fiona said, Kissing Scourge's Nose. The green hedgehog grinned. "I admit, you got a good hit in. But that's the only one you'll get." The green hedgehog vanished in a blur, tue audience panicked, but Zaran stayed calm, not even looking for the hedgehog. Scourge reappeared behind Zaran, ready to deliver a spin kick to the Fox's head, but he was cut off as Zaran raised his leg backward, delivering the heel of his shoe into Scourge's Groin. The Hedgehog yelpped in agony as he fell to the ground hands on his crotch as he let loose a string of slurry and cuss words in frustration. Zaran turned to look at the Hedgehog on the ground. "Here, I thought you'd be a challenge....but you're sloppy and predictable. All that speed and all you can think to do is zip behind me and kick me?" Fiona clenches her fists in frustration. "CMON BABE DON'T LET THIS BLACK EYED FREAK TALK TO YOU LIKE THIS." Zaran looked at Fiona, an unamused look on his darkened eyes. The Vixen flips him the middle finger. Zaran raises an eyebrow. "Wha?" Scourge sat up, his fangs Bared in rage. "Congratulations, Fox freak, you managed to piss me off." "Oh, so now we understand each other." Zaran said, looking back at the Green Hedgehog, before launching at him and Scourge by the collar of his jacket and throwing g him over his head right at Fiona, whom he collides with. Around them, the crowd starts to cheer as the two hoodlums pick themselves up. Sarah moves over to Sky. "Damn, Sky, who the heck is this Fox?" Sarah asked, completely stunned by Zaran's demonstration. Sky smiled. "He's a freedom fighter like me and Luke. A new recruit." She explained. "Wow... he's making those two look like chumps." Sarah said. "He best be careful, Scourge hasn't gotten serious yet." Luke said, walking over. Sky nods, Sarah grows a little worried. Scourge gets up and scowls at Zaran, green static appearing across his quills. "Okay, no jokes, no more insults, I'm gonna beat you so hard they won't even recognize your body." Zaran crossed his arms. "I figured you had something more tucked away." The Fox raised a hand and beckoned Scourge. Scourge's energy surged as he took off at Zaran in a spinball. The Fox had little time to react but quickly raised his hands, catching Scourge and getting pushed against the back wall. Before Zaran could retaliate a kick connected to his face, making him lose his grip on Scourge, who plowed him through the wall! Fiona landed with a smirk. A Scourge bounced back to land beside her. "How'd you like that? Still got all that courage after feeling the hurt I can deliver?" Suddnely a Grey Spinball burst through the hole and slammed into Scourge and spiked him through the front door of the club. "SHI -" Fiona started to swear as Zaran slugged her right in the stomach. "That was a cheap blow." Zaran said as he walked for the door. Fiona sat up, rubbing her stomach. She reached for something on her belt, but a pink hand grabbed her arm. "Don't even try it." Sky said, knowing what Fiona was reaching for. The Vixen cursed under her breath. Sky looked to Sarah. "Call the police please, this time they're not getting away." Sarah nodded with a smirk as she ran for the phone at the front desk. "Doesn't feel great, does it?" Sky said, glaring at Fiona as she lifted the fox to her feet. "Scourge is gonna kill that freak, then we're going after you and That Fish of a boyfriend." Sky Scowled at Fiona, really tempted to knock her out, but decides against it. "I've seen Zaran handle Metal Sonic, and Eggman, he even knocked Shadow out, you might want to keep your mouth shut you Brat." Luke replied,"and don't ever threaten my girlfriend ever again." Sky smiled and kissed Luke. Fiona faked a Gag. _____________________________________________ (Outside) Scourge came at Zaran with a flurry of Kicks. But Zaran dodged them with little effort. "You're a joke." Zaran said as he delivered a Punch to Scourges Face. Scourge bounced back up and Roared in frustration as his quill crackled with electricity. "I'LL SHOW YOU A JOKE! I CAN TAKE OUT ANY OF YOU HEROES WITH A TINY BIT OF MY POWER! HAVE A TASTE OF MY FULL MIGHT!" Scourge spun into a Spindash and revved up before launching at Zaran, the air behind him crackling with Power. Scourge closed the gap between him and the fix quickly, but just before they collided, a violet glow appeared. As he connected, a huge pulse of energy burst from them, causing some of the lights nearby to flicker, others to completely go out. Scourge rolled in place as a purple glow enveloped Zaran while he held him up with one hand. The Fox yawned. "Neat, here's a taste of my full power." Zaran raised Scourge up and then slammed him on the ground, the force making scourge uncurl, a shocked expression on his face before being plugged square in the face with a Purple fist, as he connected another pulse of energy burst out, this one violet the lights in the area that were still functioning went out and several more beyond also went out. Scourge flew backward and slammed his face first into the street. Zaran watched the green hedgehog fumble as he tried to sit up. Scourge looked up at Zaran, a glare of pure rage burning in his eyes. His face was scrapped up and bruised. "Feel weak... incompetent?" Zaran said, talking down to Scourge. The Hedgehog growled. "Doesn't feel good to be on the receiving end, right?" The fox said smuggly before his tone grew serious. "Now you know how everyone you've ever wronged feels....remember that feeling...it'll do you some good." Scourge gritted his teeth as he punched the ground. Zaran turned to face the club, seeing Sky, Luke, and Sarah watching, the crowd behind them cheering, Fiona subdued by Luke and Sky. Zaran smiled shyly as he rubbed the back of his head. _____________________________________________ Sarah cheered for her new friend, overjoyed with how well he handled Scourge. The grey Hedgehog looked to her friends, they were smiling warmly to the new Bouncer, she turned to looka t Zaran again and praise him, but saw his face fill with shock as he looked down at Sky's legs. Sarah looked down at Fiona. She had not only gotten free but had a knife in her hand. The Vixen's eyes were locked on Sky as she prepared to Stab her. "NO!!!!" Sarah screamed as she dove at Fiona and tackled her down. A sharp pain burned into her side as the knife in Fiona's hand found its way into her abdomen. "SARAH!!!" Sky exclaimed in shock, realizing what had happened. Fiona cursed as she tried to get Sarah off of her, but suddenly felt a sense of dread as she turned to see Zaran rushing at her, before Fiona could scream the Fox had his hand on her neck and lifted her up. A look of pure hatred in his eyes. "ZARAN, STOP!!!" Luke exclaimed in panic. Fiona cried out in fear as she felt Zaran's grip tighten on her throat. "ZARAN, PLEASE!! SARAH NEEDS OUR HELP!!!" Sky called to him. Her voice brought Zaran to his senses as he looked at Fiona the fear in her eyes stunning Zaran before the Fox dropped her and went to pick Sarah up and carry her into the club. Fiona watched unable to take her eyes off the Fox that had just had a hand around her throat, the thought of what he he was about to do burning in her mind. Luke pulled Scourge over and tied his arms to Fiona's. "Stay put, the Police are on their way to pick up your garbage." Luke Scowled for a few seconds at Fiona. "You tried to Stab Sky... You're gonna pay for that one." Luke left to follow Zaran and Sky inside. The two trouble makers sat there traumatized by what had just happened to them, and the Fox's face burned into the minds. Fiona is looking Horrifiyed...Scourge absolutely Livid. To be continued

(Station Square, The Night Babylon District) Rouge landed in front of a building, Zaran landing right behind him. The Fox took in the scenery. "So this is your club?" Zaran asked. I looked up at the big sign with "Club Rouge" in bright and colorful lights. "That's right Hun. Impressed?" Rouge asked, glancing at the Fox. Zaran looked at her. "I suppose so.. Owning an entire building must be a big deal." Zaran replied. Rouge smiled as she turned to face the Fox. "It is~ it can also be a handful, but it's all worth it at the end of the day." She said. Zaran looked back up at the building, thinking that maybe he should try to own a building like this someday. The Fox looked back at Rouge. "So what does one do at a club?" Zaran asked. Rouge giggled slightly. "Mostly Dance, and Drink, sometimes "other" things...depends on the person who comes in, but all are welcome. Aslong as they don't start any fighting." Zaran listened intently as it clicked. "And if they do, I'm to kick them out?" Zaran asked. "Right on the money, honey~," Rouge replied, giggling at her unintended rhyme. "Seems simple enough.." Zaran replied. Rouge clasped her hands together on excitement. "Great, well then, let's get you inside then." Zaran nodded as he followed the bat inside. _____________________________________________ Zaran took in the atmosphere as he looked around the large Room Rouge had lead him into, there were many Tables and chairs being set up by strangers he assumed were some of Rouge's employees, he notices most of the tables were facing toward one Table with a bunch of lights suspended over it shining many different colors onto it. As he looked at it, he saw a familiar Green Octopus plugging things into two big boxes at each side of the table. "Luke!" Zaran said, waving to the Octopus. Luke looked at him and waved back before running over. "Glad Rouge could find ya, Mate." "Yeah, How's Sky Doing?" Zaran asked. Luke smiled and pointed behind him. "She's just fine. just getting changed into her work outfit in the back. She was a little worried about you, though." Zaran's ears drooped slightly. "Oh... Sorry." "Nah, there's no need for Sorrys." Luke said, slapping Zaran on the back. Zaran looked up at him with a smile. "So you gonna stay for a bit?" Luke asked. "Actually, I'm working here as a...Bouncer...is that right, Rouge?" Rouge put an arm playfully over Zaran's shoulders. "Yes, sir, I think the big Fox would be the perfect muscle for the job after last week." Luke groaned in annoyance. "Don't remind me, Man pour Kevin." Zaran tilted his head. "Kevin? Who's he?" "The old bouncer, he had to retire...." Rouge explained Sadly. "....Which reminds me, as I mentioned everyone is welcome....except two." The bat continued. Zaran raised an eyebrow.  "And they are?" "There named Scourge and Fiona, Scourge looks alot like Sonic, but he's a bright green color, a Black leather Jacket and a really bad Attitude, Fiona is his Vixen Girlfriend, She has a bad habit of starting fights, only for Scourge to step in....Those two put Kevin in the Hospital last week." Rouge explained, her agitation clear to the Fox. Zaran Scowled. "So those two are Kick out on sight, Got it." Rouge nods but puts a hand on his shoulder. "Yes, but be careful, Scourge isn't a slouch,  if you kick him out, don't expect him to comply." Zaran understood and gave Rouge a Nod. "Thanks for the heads up, don't worry, I promise he won't set foot in your Club." Rouge Smiled. But before she could reply, a voice echoed across the room. "Zaran!!" Zaran turned just in time to get a hug from a pink Echidna. "Hello, Sky." Zaran said with a smile, as he felt his bones pop slightly. "I'm glad you're okay." Sky replied, letting the Fox go. "I was worried you'd get in trouble on your own."  Zaran smirked. "No trouble to be found, my friend, though I did find this." Zaran pulled the Cyan Chaos Emerald from his tails, and Sky's eyes lit up. "Oh wow, what a lucky find! Was it just laying around in the city?" She said, picking it up to admire it. The Fox nodded his head. "Correct, under a bush." "That's crazy. How'd you find it?" Luke asked, gazing into the Cyan Gemstone in his girlfriend's hands. "I felt it calling to me." Zaran said. His answer stunning his friends as they looked at him. "Felt it?" Sky repeated, puzzled. "I can feel the Emeralds energy... It's like a friend calling to me." Zaran said. Rouge, Luke, and Sky all seemed bewildered by his answer. "Huh...I bet being around them for so long has made you atune to their energy." Rouge said. At this moment, Somthing clicks in Sky's head. "That must be how you found Angel Island so easily when you Chaos controlled there this morning." Sky said with a smile. Zaran nodded his head. "That's right, the Master Emerald is even easier for me to find, given its purpose." "Purpose?" Rouge repeated curiously. Zaran turned to the Bat girl. "It's the conduit for our worlds, Chaos Energy." His answer once again baffled his friend. Zaran took the Emerald from Sky gently and walked over to one of the round tables. "Picture this table as our world... and the Emerald is the Master Emerald." Zaran said, setting the Emerald in the center of the table. His audience did what he asked before watching him use one of his nails to prick his own finger. Zaran dabbed a small drop of his blood onto the tables edge. Almost imedistley, the droplet started to move towards the Emerald, Sky, Luke, and Rouge, all gasped as they watched it. As the blood reached the Emerald, it began to glow green and  suddenly split into many smaller droplets and scattered, going away from the Emerald quickly "Wait...so...the Master Emerald." Rouge started to say as she processed what she was seeing. "It's like Mobius's heart!? Luke said. "In a way...The Chaos Force snakes its way across our planet, inside and out, and the Master and Chaos Emeralds are It's conduits...all the world's energy flows through the Chaos Emeralds and from there are sent to the Master Emerald where it's sent back re-energized....the planets breath. This energy allows us to live, for plants to grow...it's all focused through the Emeralds. Sky watched in awe as the small drops finally stopped just before the edge of the table. "Incredible." "That's why the Chaos Emeralds are so powerful....when you have all seven.. you literally are tapping into the Worlds Chaos flow directly." Zaran explained. "*phew*...Zaran, I think you just blew our minds, Mate." Luke said with a chuckle. "That's how I reacted when my teacher taught me." Zaran said with a smile as he took a napkin to wipe up the blood. "That won't do Zaran, hold on. We need some disinfectant." Sky said, running to a door, quickly coming back with a bottle and paper towels. "Well, thank you for the Lesson Zaran, not gonna lie...that puts a lot in perspective," Luke said. "If I may ask... does removing the master Emerald from Angel island actually affect this flow?" Rouge asked. "Rouge....really?" The Octopus said, glancing over at the bat. "I'm just curious!!" Rouge retorted. Zaran shook his head. "No...the Master Emerald being on the Altar makes its flow go through the islands network of Lesser Chaos emerald Veins, this then is what causes the Island to Float....when you remove the Emerald, aslong as it remains on the island it will still float...but upon taking it off the island-" "Or shattering it..." Rouge interrupts. Zaran gives her a...passive aggressive look. A bead of sweat rolls down Rouge's face. "Or yes, shattering it.....The island loses that direct feed, and the island falls. But no, it doesn't affect the worlds natural chaos flow....though Shattering it probably would." Zaran finishes, looking at Rouge once more. "Gotcha.." Rouge replies...nervously. "Kind of regret trying to go after it aren't ya Rouge." Sky joked playfully. "Hey, I wasn't the one that Shattered it, I just wanted to have it my collection." Rouge retorted. Sky playfully rolls her eyes. "Whatever you say, Boss," the pink echidna said Sarcasitcly. "So Rouge, I take it I stand by the Front Entrance and check everyone that comes in?" Zaran asked, getting back on subject. Rouge nods. "You will, yes. but you'll be working with our hostess Saria. For the most part, you'll just be there for intimidation, so no one messes with her." Zaran nods. "Oh... I get it. All right...so who's this Saria person I'll be working with?" Rouge looks to Sky. "Have you seen her?" She asked. Sky smiles and nods. "Yeah, she's just in the back getting changed. She'll be up front soon." Rouge looks back at Zaran. "In the meantime, why not sit tight till she comes sout." Zaran nods and sits, eyes wandering. _____________________________________________ "Sarah?" A Grey Hedgehog looked up from her phone to see Sky walking towards them. "Oh, Sky, Evening." Sarah said with a warm smile. The Pink Echidna replied with a smile of her own. "Evening." She said. "Rouge had a special job for you tonight. She wants you to work the front desk to help out the new bouncer." Sky continued. "Oh.." The Hedgehog replied, her smile shrinking. Her mind goes back to a few nights before when their previous bouncer was beaten brutally by a pair of very unpleasant miscreants. Sky can see the unease in her eyes and puts a hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, you'll be perfectly safe, our new bouncers, something special." Sky said, her warm tone easing some of Sarah's nerves. "If you say so." Sarah replied with an unsure smile. Sky smiled. "His name is Zaran, he's waiting out in the main room." The Gray hedgehog nods as she steps out into the main room. Looking around, she quickly notices the Silver Fox sitting at a table off to the side, walking over. She raises her hand. "Hey, are you Zaran?" The Fox turned to look at her, the Gray Hedgehog faltering upon seeing the Fox's eyes, their blackened Scalera suprising her. "You must be Sarah, Nice to meet you." The Fox said, standing up with a friendly smile. "Y-yeah.." Sarah mumbled, finding it hard to look away from his darkened eyes, combined with the sudden height his gained, thanks to his tall stature. Sarah felt pretty intimidated. Zaran notices her staring. "Do my eyes frighten you?" The Fox asked. The question snaps Sarah out of her stupor. "Eh!? N-no they're just...I've never seen eyes like them before." "they are rather unique, I suppose." Zaran said with an embarrassed smile. "There actually rather Cool." Sarah replied with a smile. Zaran stumbled slightly, not expecting her response to be complementary. "Oh....T-thanks." The Fox replied with a smile of his own. "So you're gonna be my bouncer tonight. Well, you look the part, but there's a lot of big guys that regular the club..." Sarah raises an eyebrow. "... Are you ready to get into a fight if need be? Zaran smiles as he puts a hand on the table next to him. "If anyone tries to harm you, I'll stop them. You have nothing to worry about." Zaran grips the table and lifts it with on hand, Sarah's eyes widen slightly. "Dang...that's pretty impressive." Sarah replied. The fox smiled as he set the table back down. "Thank you."  He said as he took a seat. "Is there anything or anyone I should look out for?" Sarah sat across from him. "For the most part, the regulars are pretty chill, though a few drinks can make some of them a little aggressive." Then Sarah's expression turned Serious. "However, there is one pair that is completely banned from the Club." "Rouge told me of them?" Zaran asked. "Yeah, Scourge and Fiona, there nothing but bad news." "Green Hedgehog named Scourge, and a Vixen named Fiona.." Zaran repeated his eyes, turning tense as he. Sarah sighs. "There the reason our old bouncer left, they put him in the hospital a week ago, hope that doesn't intimidate you." Zaran shook his head. "Nope, not at all. If those two show up, I'll give them both a Boot in the tail." Sarah smiled nervously. "I just hope they don't." Zaran puts a hand on the Hedgehog's. "I swear they won't harm you, my friend." Sarah's face turned a slight pink at the Fox's touch. "O-okay then," she studdered. A faint giggle from behind tells Sarah she's being watched. Peaking behind, she sees Sky giggling, the Pink echidna waving when she see sees Sarah looking at her. "Alrighty, we should probably get ready. We're about to open." Sarah said, regaining her Composure. The Fox Nods in response. _____________________________________________ (3 hours later) Sarah sighs in relief as the initial line of customers finally has ended. And thankfully, with no issues. "Well, that went well, no trouble so far." Sarah looked up to see Zaran giving her a thumbs up, the hedgehog smiles. "Yeah, so far so good, though that one guy looked like he was gonna wet himself when he saw you staring at him." Sarah said with a giggle. Zaran Chuckled. "I guess I'm a pro at Bouncing." The Fox replied. Sarah suddenly burst into a fit of giggling. "Yeah, I guess so." "What? Did I say something funny?" Zaran asked, confused. "No, it's nothing, I'm just glad we haven't had any issues yet." Sarah said, winking at the Fox. The Fox averted his gaze upon seeing her wink. This made Sarah Giggle. A sudden Growl gets the Female Hedgehog's attention. Seeing Zaran put a hand on his stomach gives her the answer. "Was that your stomach?" Sarah said, holding back another giggle fit. "Apologise, Sarah. I guess I'm hungry." Zaran replied, slightly embarrassed. Sarah smiled and waved off his apology. "It's alright, how about you go on break and get some food and I'll cover this for a bit." Zaran shakes his head. "I can't leave you. What if trouble starts?" "I'll be fine, Zaran, it won't be for long." Sarah said with a wink. Zaran looks conflicted... but seeing the confidence in Sarah's eyes, he finally nods. "Alright, but give me a whistle if anything happens." Sarah gives the Fox a Nod. "I will, Promise." Zaran turns to leave, taking a few steps before looking back at her....then turning to walk away....only to look back again. "I'll be fine Zaran if anything happens, I'll signal for one of the barmen or Luke to come help. Zaran nods and finally walks into the main room. Sarah smiles as she looks back to her clip board. "That's one committed Fox." The Hedgehog said with a smile. _____________________________________________ Zaran walks towards the main floor, where he sees tons of Mobians and a few humans dancing and standing around, some wobbling in place, clearly having partaken in a few drinks. "Going on Break?" Zaran turned to see Sky approaching him. "Yeah, just to grab some food." Zaran replied in a loud tone, trying to fight through the loud music. Sky nods and walks him to a table. "I was about to take one myself, How about I get us something off the menu?" The Pink Echidna replied as she motioned for him to sit down. "That sounds good, but aren't you on break? I don't want you to have to cook something when you're supposed to be resting." Zaran replied. "It's fine, really. I want to make sure your first day is smooth. Zaran smiles before slipping his tail into the booth before sitting himself. The Pink echidna walks into the kitchen. As Zaran waits, he reaches I to his tails and pulls out the Cyan Chaos Emerald. He inspects the gems surface and wipes off and dirt before admiring its glow. "I'd probably keep that hidden Zaran." Zaran looked up to see Sky holding a large platter of some sort of food. Triangles with a yellow sauce and what appears to be meat. "You're probably right, I was just cleaning it off." Zaran replied as he tucked the Beryl into his tails once more. Sky sets the tray down and sits across from the Fox. "These are Nachos there a little spicy, but I asked for mild, so they shouldn't be too bad." "They look good and smell good, so I'm sure I'll like them." Zaran replied. "Thank you very much." "You're welcome." The echidna said with a smile. Sky took one of the chips and ate it, Zaran followed, popping a chip into his mouth. The taste was very different. The spice Sky mentioned was there, but it was pretty manageable. The Yellow Sauce baffled him with its flavor. "What is this yellow sauce?" Zaran asked. "It's cheese, you like it?" Sky replied. "It's delicious actually one of the best things I've ever tasted." Zaran replied, his eyes sparkling with joy. Sky Giggled. "I'm so glad you're enjoying it." The two sat and ate for a few minutes before Sky spoke up. "If I may ask Zaran..." Sky started. Zaran looked up at her cheese on the edges of his mouth, the Pink Echidna doing her best not to giggle at the Fox. "You can ask me anything, Sky." Sky looked rather timidly at Zaran."What was...Sora... like?" Zaran smiled."The nicest person you could ever meet, she cared for everything, from the tiniest insect to the mightest of Beasts. Always greeting people with the warmest smiles." Sky smiled hearing Zaran's words, but at the same time, a twinge of sadness crossed her heart. "Am I... like her?" Sky asked. Zaran seemed puzzled. "I mean, you look exactly like her, and you have the same Friendly Aura..." Sky looked down, but before she could say anything, Zaran continued. "... But you also have a lot of differences and differences that make you your own beautiful person, Sky." Zaran added with a smile. Sky's eyes teared up slightly. "Thank you, Zaran." Zaran nodded. "Anytime, my friend. I get the feeling...your often compared to here, aren't you?" Sky shakes her head slowly. "More Like I compare myself to here....I feel like I need to be like her..that If I'm not I'll be a failure....like somthing in my head tells me I need to be exactly like her....or I'll be nothing." Zaran's ears droop as he gets up and pulls her into a big hug. Sky returns it. "Thank you." Sky replied. "You're welcome, If you ever need to Ta-" A loud crash startled the two friends. Scream from near the entrance got them heading towards the front. As they arrived at the scene, they saw a Green Hedgehog in Black Jacket standing over Sarah, who was cowering slightly from the green Punk. "EVERYONE RELAX!! THE PARTY KINGS ARIVED!!!" Scourge yelled. Zaran's eyes narrowed. "That Scourge?" Sky nods, a serious scowl on her muzzle. Zaran nods as he cracks his knuckles. To be Continued....

The rain had started up again...it had ended so suddenly before no one even noticed... now it was back with a Vengence. Zaran sat on the Library Balcony, watching the rain beat down in the gardens below. He looked back in at the couch where Sky was resting Luke sitting not too far from her. Sonic and Tails went with Sally to talk about something.. he wasn't listening so he didn't catch what about. Zaran stood and walked back inside, closing the doors behind him. He felt a horrible guilt in his heart....the worry that it was his fault Sky was unconsious.... The Green Octopus looked up at him. "Zaran..." The Fox turned to look at him. "I can tell you're blaming yourself for this,  Please don't." Luke said with a small smile on his beak. Zaran didn't answer he just looked down. Luke sighed. "This isn't your fault, mate. we never mentioned this quirk of Sky's Biology....if you want to blame someone, you should blame that Egghead." Zaran looked up at him. "I suppose that is true....but at the same time this can't be healthy for her...to pass out anytime she starts to remember things from Sora's life....With me here this might happen even more then before." Luke tried to retort... but couldn't. "If me being around cause her harm, I don't want to be around....I won't let anyone else suffer because they know me." Zaran said coldly. "Zaran, don't you think you should let Sky decide that for herself? Having you around has made her feel better about herself, about her existence." Luke replied. Zaran turns to face him. "But what if she changes her mind....what if down the road the constant fainting and headaches makes her sick of me, It gets to the point she hates me...." Zaran's tails and ears droop to the ground. "Trust me, Sky wouldn't ever do that. She's one of the most patient and understanding people you'll ever meet...and you have." Zaran didn't respond. Luke sighed and sat back down. "If you want to go, I won't stop you... but just so you know, Sky'll come looking for you the moment she wakes up, then she'll tell you the same thing I did." The Octopus smirked at the Zaran, who looked back at him. "If she does, I'll listen...If anything, I still need to go out there alone so I can understand this world." Zaran said. "Alright, Mate, I'll cover you if anyone asks... expect Sky to show up probably within an hour or two... that's usually how long one of these lasts." Luke said Zaran nods as he walks over to the table and picks up the warp rings and Emerald Rod from the museum. "See you later, Zaran." Luke said, getting up and pulling him into a quick hug. Zaran returned it. Before closing his eyes and vanishing in a violet flash. Luke sat back down, looking at his girlfriend's peacful expression, and smiled. _____________________________________________ (Station Square a few minutes later) Zaran looked down upon the city, the lights glowing in the fading evening light, his Wings barely moving as he glided between buildings. Zaran wasn't too experienced with flying, but he did make a point to learn how and be at the least decent at it. "Never deny an advantage given." Somthing his mentor Maya once told him when he was younger. Below, he heard the noise of people yelling and those annoying motorized vehicles blaring their loud horns. But from here, the sound was less obnoxious, albeit slightly so. "Such a strange place, do they ever rest?" Zaran thought. In his time, the streets of Echidnopolis would have been almost empty, people heading home to be with their families and preparing dinner... but here, it's almost like people don't even need to sleep. Though he found it bizarre, the Fox didn't fi d it that odd, he personally liked the night better anyway, less strain on his eyes, and it was quieter...though the later doesn't seem to likely here. "If I plan to live in this time It won't be here... Maybe the others would know a good place?" Zaran rhought. "Zaran, how are you?" The Fix suddenly jumped in suprise, almost falling before flapping his wings to right himself. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to startle you." The voice was Tikaos. "Lady Tikaos? How are you speaking with me?" Zaran said, hovering, his wings flapping carfully." "Forgive me, I felt you had found the Warp Rings Ruby gave Father..." Tikaos said. Zaran smiled. "I did, as well as the..other thing. And your message." "I felt the sorrow in your heart... I'm sorry." The Goddess said. "It's alright, no need to apologise, but you didn't answer me. How are you talking to me?" Zaran said. "Oh, forgive me." The Goddess Apologized before continuing. "When you touched the ring I felt your presence through its Chaos emerald core, so I've been trying to reach out to it, And when I did I suddenly heard your thoughts, so I Wanted to test if you could hear mine aswell." Zaran nodded his head. "I see. Well, it was a success, I heard you loud and clear." The Fox said with a smile as he began to descend to a rooftop, feeling more rain drops starting to fall. "Indeed....the same on my end, I heard what had happened to Sky. " Tikaos said. Zaran looked down. "Yeah..." "I'm sorry I won't bring it up again." Tikaos said, quickly backpeddling. Zaran shakes his head gently. "It's alright, Luke and I talked about it." " That is good, you can't blame yourself for this, You didn't know." Tikaos said. "I know, I just fear that I might cause this again... talking about the past might cause her to have an episode like that again..." Zaran said, sitting on the edge of the building. as he sat, he could feel Tikaos's hands on his shoulders like she was there with him. "That is beyond your control Zaran, if it happens, it happens....I know that sounds harsh, but things like this are beyond control." Zaran looked down at the ground before suddenly raising his hands to his mouth as if holding an instrument, as he did, an aura appeared between his fingers flowing around them like small fish. With a soft exhale, music flowed from the aura as small notes danced on the air around him. https://youtu.be/nJkA-sPzvtk?si=qSe_tVMjXx5SynPA Around him, the ambient noise faded as the music filled the air, the notes sounding similar to a piano. As Zaran played, he heard soft crying, he new it must have been Tikaos. She clearly recognized Her favorite song from when she was little... the same one Lady Sora once played for him many occasions before teaching it to him when he became guaridan. "Your playing is beautiful, Zaran." Tikaos said through her tears of nostalgia. Zaran looked up to the Sky, not faultering in his performance for an instant. The rain began to calm once more as the clouds finally began to break, as if the music put them at peace. Through the forming holes, the stars began to appear steadily as the sun sank lower and lower. The notes returned to Zaran as he finished playing. His cheeks soaked with tears as he lowered his hands. "Feeling better, Brother?" Tikaos asked. Zaran nodded his head. "Alittle... playing always helped me calm down... clears the mind." Zaran took a deep breath as he closed his eyes, letting his mind relax as he took in the sounds, the smells.... Zaran's ears suddenly perked up as he opened his eyes. "A Chaos Emerald!?" Zaran said, getting up. "What?" Tikaos asked. "I sense a Chaos Emerald nearby." The Fox said, looking down off the building. Zaran looked around, trying to feel where the energy felt the strongest. "He looked from building to building until finally locking onto the energy. It was coming from a small park across the street. "I'll retrieve it." Zaran said. "Be careful, brother." Tikaos said. "I will. Thanks for talking with me, Sister." Zarna said before leaping from the building, his wings spreading and catching the air. _____________________________________________ Zaran landed in a tree quietly, still sensing the Emerald's energy. It was very close. "Were..." Zaran muttered as he walked slowly. The energy kept getting stronger and stronger until finally it was so strong it practically made his nostrils burn. Before him was a Bush, the Fox wasted no time kneeling down and peaking under it, As he did a Soft Cyan glow greeted him, the Fox Smiled as took in the pristine glowing Gemstone, its appearance unchanged from 4000 years ago. he reached under the bush and grabbed the Emerald. As the Fox held the Emerald, he felt a warm sensation, like the Emerald was greeting him after so long. "It has been a long time." Zaran said , rubbing a bit of dirt from its surface before slipping the Gem into his Tails. "Oh, drat." A familiar voice got Zaran's attention as he looked up to see Rouge hanging upside down nearby. "You beat me to it." Rouge said, pouting. Zaran bowed his head politley. "Forgive me Ms.Rouge I was in the area and I-" Rouge landed and put a finger to his mouth. "Don't worry about it, Chaos Emeralds are beautiful... but there too high maintenance, everyone wants to steal them." The Bat Joked with a slight giggle. The Fox's expression grew serious. "Oh...Perhaps my decision to scatter them was a mistake." Rouge smiles. "I don't think so sweetie, better for creeps like Eggman to find one, then find all seven." Zaran nodded his head, agreeing with the Bats' words. but a thought burned in his mind. "Very true. But now that I've returned, perhaps it's time they were gathered up again." The Fox said. "For what?" Rouge asked curiously. Zaran looked to the bat. "For them to be secure and out of the hands of those with evil intent. They might not be as dangerous apart...emphasis on the "AS," but even one can spell trouble in the wrong hands....i think its time their power was made unobtainable once more." "So you intend on gathering them all up and storing them away somewhere?" Rouge questioned. The Fox nodded once more. "That's the idea." Rouge Smiled Slyly. "Well, if it helps, I know we're 3 of them are, but one of them is with the Guaridan Units of Nations... and I doubt they'll let you have it." "I'm sure I can talk it over with them. They must know the emeralds are safer out of everyone's reach." Zaran explained with a hopeful smile. Rouge giggled. "If you say so." The bats' response made Zaran uneasy. and a little annoyed. "There warlords, aren't they?" Rouge smirked. "Kind of...they protect the world from threats... but they do have their own research into the Chaos emeralds... honestlyif you came in toating the other 6, they may try to confiscate them from you." Zaran growled at the idea of anyone taking the Emeralds from him. "Well, that would be their first and last mistake." Zaran replied, his voice showing a hint of Venom. Rouge raised an eyebrow. "Oh... you're kinda cute when you're mad, Zaran~," Rouge Teased. Zaran looked at the Bat, slightly baffled by her response, but nodded. "Um... thank you, you're quite beautiful as well." Rouge blushed slightly, giving the Fox's arm a hug, being sure to press her curves into it. "Awww, you're so sweet.~" Rouge said with a flirty tone. Zaran raised an eyebrow at her sudden change in behavior. "I only speak the truth, Rouge. You are by far one of the most beautiful women I've ever met." Rouge's face glowed a bright pink, slightly flustered by Zaran's calm composure. And genuine compliments, She had expected him to respond more akin to Knuckles, a flustered rage, but instead, the Fox seemed pretty unwavering against her playful advances. "Wow....you've got quite the Poker Face Zaran~," Rouge complimented. Zaran raised an eyebrow. "Uh....thank you... I think?" Suddenly, the Bats Expression brightened up. "Say...how would you like to be a bouncer at my Club~♡" Zaran looked even more confused. "A... Bouncer?" Zaran replied, confused. Rouge smiled. "Yeah~♡ all you have to do is let people in who are on the list...and if they're not..or they start causing trouble, you kick them out." The bat lifted his arm. "And with your strength and unassuming appearance, you'd be perfect for the job!~♡" Zaran thought about it. "Hm... sounds simple enough." Rouge winked at him. "And Sky and Luke work there as well so you'd have friends." Zaran did like the sound of it. He looked to Rouge and nodded his head. "I'll do it." Rouge Smiled. "Excellent, perfect timing too. we're about to open for the night, and Sky and Luke called and said they were already on their way, so why not come by and start now?" Zaran seemed surprised by her words. "Sky's awake?" The Fox said. Rouge seemed confused but gave a nod. "Yeah?" The Fox sighed in relief. "That's wonderful news, thank you." Rouge seemed a little confused but quickly made the connection. "She passed out, didn't she?" The Fox nodded his head, slightly sad. The Bat noticed and gaving at pat on the shoulder. "Don't feel bad, hun~" She always pulls through." Rouge said with a sympathetic smile. Zaran nodded as he took a deep breath. "Yeah...so where is this...Club?" Rouge fluttered her wings as she rose into the air. "This way, Big Fox, stay on my tail~" the bat said as she flew away. Zaran nodded and took to the air after her. To be Continued.

(Station Square Museum) For the umpteenth time, Zaran found himself in Aww as they entered the Museum, only to immediately be greeted by the Skeleton of a large Creature looming over them. "By the gods..." Zaran said as he approached the Massive Skeleton. Sonic Chuckles as put a patted Zaran on the back. "Those are dinosaur bones. They're actually older than you are." The Hedgehog Chuckled. Zaran studied the Bones. "Dino...saur...Huh, They remind me of Dragon Bones." "Yeah, there one in the same actually, Many ancient races are thought to have mistook dinosaur bones for the bones of dragons and other mystical creatures." Tails said, walking over. Zaran looked down at the kit. "If you say so." The Silver fox replied with a chuckle. Tails looked at Zaran Confused but shrugged it off. "So we're shall we go first? The Art Wing? Ancient history?" Luke said, stretching and putting his arms behind his head. Zaran is quick to answer. "I like the sound of Ancient History, I'm

Sky, Rouge, and Zaran approach a building, It looks drastically different from the ones around it. "Huh...so this is the Resteraunt I presume?" Zaran asked. "It's an interesting place isn't it?" Sky asked, looking back at the Fox. "Indeed, quite a contrast from the other buildings." "It's a theme sweetie, helps them attract customers." Rouge adds. Zaran tilts his head. "Shouldn't there food attract customers?" Rouge looks back at him. "There's alot of restaurants in this city. They need to stand out so people want to go to them and not others places." The bat explained. Zaran listened closely. Nodding his head when she finished. "I see. Guess that makes sense." Rouge smiles and winks at him. Sky giggling. As they group enter the building a Well dressed human steps towards them. Zaran studied the man, his nose stuck upward slightly as he looked down at them...the look annoyed the Fox slightly but he ignored it. "Good evening, table for three?" The man asked. "Actually were meeting some friends. Pretty sure there easy to identify." Rouge replied with a slight bit of sass. "Ah yes your friends mentioned you, right this way." The Man walked into the next room, Sky and Rouge following him, Zaran trailing behind them, upon entering the room Zaran was shocked bybthe shear size of it. Aswell as all the people talking and eating. As Zaran looked around he felt his tails brush a table. "*Ahem* Please mind your tail...er Tails please!" Zaran whipped around quickly seeing a slightly irritated human woman looking at him. As he whipped around he heard another Voice call out. "Hey!" Zaran almost whipped around again but relaised his tails were causing the distress. Quickly the Kyubbi twirled his tails tightly. Plucking a Hair from them and fastening it around them. The Fox flicked his tail to make sure he could move it fine then bowed his head to the people. "My apologise." The Fox said politley. The humans returned to there business. Zaran was relieved he didn't cause any issue.. though was stunned they didn't even acknowledge his apology, a look of annoyance appearing on his face. A felt a hand on his shoulder, the Fox glancing over to see Luke looking at him. "You alright Mate?" The Octopus asked. The Fox Nodded turning to face him, before Luke ushered him towards there table. "Don't pay then mind. Somepeople just think there to good to talk to others that they think are.... beneath them." Luke explained. Zaran looked at him. "Snobs?" Luke chuckled and replied. "Snobs." The Fox and Octopus grinned at each other as they approached the table. Zaran sat down beside Shadow and Sky, Luke returning to his seat on the other side of Sky. "Mr.Zaran you outfit looks Nice!" Cream said complimenting him. Zaran looked at her a smiled. "Thank you, though Rouge and Sky deserve more credit then I, I'd have no clue where to begin without them." Sky Smiles. "Aww, your welcome Zaran." Rouge winked at him, Zaran's ear flicked in response. The bat Giggleing at his response. "You braided you hair?" Shadow asked. The Fox looked at him and nodded. "It's a Kyubbi custom." Sky said. Zaran looking at her and nodding once more. "I see...it looks good, Unique." The Black Hedgehog Replied. "Woah! Was that a Complement Shadow?" Sonic said nudging Shadow playfully. The Black Hedgehog huffed and returned to his menu. A Chuckle echoing across the table. Zaran looks down at his menu, the words seemed familiar but he focused on the Pictures...as he did a drop of saliva pooled in the corner of his mouth. "See stuff ya like Mate?" Luke asked noticing his drool. Zaran chuckled as he wiped his mouth. "It all looks delicious, I may have a hard time choosing." "How about we order you a few plates and see what you like best?" Sky added. "That sounds like a good idea." Zaran replied with a smile. Rouge quickly signaled for a waitress, the lady walking over with a pen and paper. "Have you decided on what you would like?" The Woman asked. "Were gonna order several of your largest platters. If you don't mind." Rouge asked. "Of course, so what do you think? Four platters?" The waitress asked. A Loud growl is heard startling the woman as she looks at Zaran "Uh....better make it eight." Rouge replied. Zaran hung his head in embarrassment. "Excuse me..." The Waitress Chuckled. "Not to worry. So we're doing eight platters of Sushi, it'll take a bit but We'll have them out as soon as possible." "Thank you dear." Rouge replied. The waitress starts to turn before looking back "Oh, and what will you three be drinking?" "Just Water please" Rouge replied. "Ice Tea please. " Sky added. The waitress turns to Zaran. "And you?" The Fox thinks for a moment. "Um...What is Lemonade...I hear the Lemon in it." "It's Lemon Juice with Sugar, it's good." Sky explains. "Oh...hm uh I'll do Lemonade and a Glass of Tea please." Zaran asked. "Both? Why don't I bring you and Arnold Palmer?" The Waitress offered. "Uh...Okay." Zaran replied, mildly confused. "It's lemonade and Tea mixed." The Waitress explained. "Oh...there's a new for it now? Then Yes I'll take that." The Fox replied with a smile. The waitress turned and walked away. Zaran took a deep breath and crossed his arms. The others began to chat, Sky talking with Luke. Tails and Sonic began to chat with Shadow. Rouge pulling a Strange device from her pocket and began to stare into it. Cream began talking with The three Chao. Sitting beside her. Tyke Looked at Zaran, the Fox Smiling as his eyes began to wander around the room, at the statues and paintings adorning the walls. Paintings of Nature..ponds and forests with animals gracfully existing with in them. Herrins wading through the water, and fish scaling waterfalls. It was all rather beautiful. As he studied the paintings his smile began to shrink... _____________________________________________ Zaran tightened a Bandage around a crying chaos Head, the poor little child's eyes wet with tears. "It'll be alright little one, I know it hurts." Zaran cooed to the little creature. The sound of steps coming up the altars steps made Zaran look to them, the Fox Smiled as a White Echidna ascended them with a basket of fruit. "Maybe some fruit will help you feel better little one." The Echidna said with a smile as she set the basket by Zaran and the Chao. The Chao picked a fruit and began to Nibble on it. After a few bites the chaos emote ball swelled into a bright yellow heart of Joy. "There ya go little friend, next time be more careful around the Master Emerald okay." Ruby said patting the Chao gently." The White Echidna said. Zaran smiled, a tear rolling down his cheek. _____________________________________________ "Zaran? You alright?" Zaran snapped out of his daydream, noticing Sky and Cream were both looking at him. "Are you alright? Y-your crying." Sky asked. Zaran quickly wipes his face free of tears. "I'm sorry....I was just thinking about...things." "Your past?" Cream asked. Zaran sighed and nodded his head. "Yeah...thinking about an old friend." Sky puts a hand on Zaran's Shoulder. "Do you want talk about them? It might make you feel better." Zaran looks at Sky, then back down  to his hands. "Not right now....it's too painful." Luke chimes in. "You really shouldn't hold those kinds of things in mate, you'll feel better if you ta-" "NO!" Zaran says firmly. Making Luke Jump slightly. "Woah, easy man, I'm sorry." Luke replies. Zaran takes a deep breath and looks down. "I'm sorry Luke...I just really don't want to talk about them." Sky Smiles. "We understand, you can talk about it when your ready." Zaran smiled slightly. "Mr.Zaran Tyke is such a wonderful Chao, you raised him well!" Cream said Praising Zaran. Zaran Blushes slightly. "Awww thank you Little friend, Tyke's been my partner since I was just starting out as a Gurdian...so we were together for almost 14 years before I went on my journey, but to think he's become a Chaos Chao, I never thought he'd make it all the way....I couldn't be prouder of him." Tyler smiled big as he took a sip of his cup. Shadow spoke up. "Zaran if I may Ask, how did the Chaos Emeralds get scattered if they were with you?" Zaran's face turned somber. Zaran took a moment to find his words, before beginning to explain."The same reason there's Chao Gardens around Mobius I assume, you see after stopping a....very bad person....I had the Chao from the Garden Scatter the Emeralds to the Four corners of the world, so they wouldn't be easily obtainable by anyone else." "Is that why they scatter themselves too?" Tails asked. Zaran looked at him, an eyebrow raised. "What do you mean?" "The Chaos Emeralds after being around each other for long periods of time Will often Scatter themselves across mobius again, unless put into proper storage...or they're with Sonic....they seem to "trust" him." Zaran listened in intruige. "Interesting, The Master Emerald has what some would consider a "Consious" it's possible the Chaos Emeralds have this aswell....or perhaps Tikaos has an answer." "Chaos?" Tails repeated. Zaran wagged his finger. "Tikaos...Chaos merged with the Echidna princess Tikal...my step sister." "Tikal was..er...Is your Sister!?" Luke asked in pure suprise. Sky nodded. "She is Luke, she was so friendly!  Sky said with a warm smile. "Wow didn't know we had royalty at the table, thats pretty cool." Sonic said to Zaran, but the Fox waves it off. "No I'm no prince, just a Fox raised by very good Echidna." Zaran said with a smile. "I would really like to meet Ms.Tikaos." Cream said with a smile. "I'm sure she'd love to meet you, she loves Chao as much as you do." Zaran said, happy tears forming in his eyes. Sky Smiles and puts a hand on Zaran's Shoulder. "You okay?" Zaran nods. The Waitress returns, with a tray of three drinks. "Here you are.~" The waitress quickly sets down Sky's, Rouges, then finally Zaran's drinks. They giving her they're thanks. "Your most welcome, your food will be out shortly." The Waitress said before walking off. Zaran wipes his eyes. "Sorry....I don't get emotional like this normally." "Theres no need to be sorry Zaran." Sky said patting the Fox's shoulder, the Fox Smiled. "Say Zaran Did Tikaos say anything about Rouge trying to take her on several occassions?" Sonic asked with a smirk. Rouge suddenly broke into a small fit of coughing. Zaran chuckled. "No but I forgive her, she wasn't aware of the Emeralds Importance." Rouge sighed slightly. "Yeah...If I had any idea the Emerald was so special I wouldn't have touched it." Shadow looked to the Bat. "Rouge I'm very certain you tried stealing the emerald at least once after learning of its importan-" "Shadow so help me if you don't shut up I'm gonna give you amnesia again." The rest of the table burst into a fit of laughter. Sky Leans towards Zaran. "She didn't, she was just teasing Knuckles." Zaran nods his head with a chuckle. "I see." _____________________________________________ After another 10 mins the waitress returns followed by 3 others carrying platters of Sushi. "Thank you for your patience." The Waitress said as the Platters were set on the table. Zaran looked over the assortment of Sushi with increasing excitement, drool forming in the corners of his mouth. "If there's anything else you need, just let us know." The Waitress said with a smile. "Will do, Thank you." Rouge said. Sky looked at Zaran, the Fox was staring at the sushi, fidgeting like an excited puppy. A giggle slipping from her lips. "You really must be Hungry." Sky said, Zaran looked at her and Nodded. "Then what are you waiting for Mate?" Luke asked. Zaran didn't even respond as he quickly took several piece, then morsels vanishing in his jaws. The Fox sat still, Savoring the flavor. "Like it?" Rouge asked. Zaran turned to look at her as he swallowed. "It's delicious, thank you!" The Bat smiled as Zaran returned his attention to the platter taking another piece. The others followed suite, helping themselves aswell. _____________________________________________ (One hour later) The Group was completely satisfied, every Piece of Sushi eaten and not one person left hungry, Dispite Zaran eating almost two platters himself. "My gosh Zaran you really were Hungry." Rouge Laughed seeing the Fox wiping his muzzle. Zaran set his napkin down and smiled. "This isn't too strange for me, I normally eat alot..especially after using alot of Chaos Power." The Fox Explained. "Sounds like a certain black Hedgehog I know." Rouge said Glancing at Shadow, who averted his eyes. Zaran looked to Tyke who was sitting happily with an extended stomach. "I take it your full aswell?" The Fox smiled. Tyke said nothing, instead giving his Friend a Happy Nod of his head. The Fox Grinned, as he took a sip of his Drink. The Waitress returned with a small clipboard and a pen. "Looks like you enjoyed the meal, Are you ready for the Bill?" She asked. "No but it has to be done." Rouge Joked as she motioned the Waitress over. Zaran watched as she wrote in a book, pulled the page out and handed it to tue Waitress. "So that's how you pay for things?" Zaran said. "One way." Shadow said. "I see...I guess I'll have to figure out a way to make money so I can pay you all back for your Kindness." Zaran said. "No need to worry yourself, it's fine." Rouge said. Zaran shook his head. "No, I can't accept that. I will pay you back." Rouge Blushes slightly and smiles. "Well that's very nice of you." "Well if we've finished, Shall we go do somthing else?" Sonic chimed in. The group looks to Zaran, the Fox shrugs. "I mean I'm up for it, I wouldn't mind Exploring abit." The Fox replied. "Might I suggest the Station Square Museum? Might be worth seeing." Tails offered. Zaran ponders for a moment. "That does sound educational, learning about what I've missed sounds like a grand idea." "Then it's decided!" Sky said clasping her hands together. Rouge chimes in. "As fun as that sounds, I'm afraid Shadow and I need to get going." "Oh...are you sure?" Sky asked. Shadow nods. "Rouge is right, we've kept Omega waiting long enough. besides, we'll need to file a report, that way G.U.N will know Zaran is an ally." Sonic steps forward. "Yeah, that's probably a good idea...Don't want them sending Trucks after him." The Hedgehog Chuckles. Sky and Luke chuckle aswell....though more nervously. Shadow and Rouge turn and take off down the street, before Rouge lifts Shadow up into the air. "I think I should head home aswell, Mama is probably worried about me." Cream said fluttering her ears to take flight. Sky Smiles and hugs the Bunny. "Take care getting home." Zaran looked to his Chao."Tyke why don't you go with them, make sure nothing happens to her or the other Chao." Tyke looks slightly sad by this request, but nods in agreement. Zaran suddenly pulls the Chao into a Hug. "Don't worry, I won't dissapear this time, I'll see you soon, Promise." Tyke smiles and hugs back, before being freed to fly away with Cream, Cheese, and Chocola. As the quartet vanishes Zaran turns to The remaining friend. "Shall we head to this Museum you mentioned?" Zaran asked. Tails nods and takes lead as they head down the street. To be continued...

(Blue Ridge Zone, Downtown Station Square) https://youtu.be/FY2Ws_LjszI?si=DCddWWB0ikLWz6vJ Zaran was blown away by his surroundings! Buildings reaching up to the Sky and Dozens of Humans and Mobians walking about. He had never seen somewhere so busy. Sky giggled at the Fox's Behavior as she tapped his shoulder. "Never seen a city this big before I take it?" The Echidna Asked with a smile. "I have not...Echidnopolis was nowhere this huge." Zaran said, his eyes quickly racing from new sight to New Sight. Tails quickened his pace to match Zaran. "You'll like it here, They have all kinds of things to do! Amusement parks, beaches, museums! Maybe we can explore after we eat." "I'd like that." Zaran replied," Look to Rouge, who was leading the party. "So...where's this Shop you spoke of?" Rouge glanced back at him. "Almost there, keep your skirt on." The bat Teased. "Skirt?" Zaran replies with a raised eyebrow. Rouge rolled her eyes with a giggle as she continued walking, Sky giggled as well. The Fox shrugged. "So Zaran, what do you think of this time?" Sky asked. Zaran looked at her and took a deep breath..."It's alot to wrap my mind around....though for everything new, there's plenty that's the same...I must admit though, I've never been more blown away by somthing more, then by the sheer Size and height of this City, A place like this could never exist in the world I knew." Sky smiles at the Fox as she puts a hand on his shoulder. "It's a Sight to behold, huh?" Zaran Nodded. Rouge turned back to look at Zaran. "Do you have any idea what kind of clothing you'd like?" The bat asked. Zaran honestly had no idea. In all honesty, he never really cared what clothes he wore. Usually, because he only had one outfit that he wore most of his life, the same one he mended, washed and dried every evening before he slept....it did its purpose, and that's all that mat The concept of outfits and style were very foreign to the Kyubbi. He felt a hand on his shoulder, the contact snapping him back to the present as he turned to see Luke looking at him. "I take it you have no idea, Right mate?" The Octopi asked. Zaran chuckled dryly in response. "Yeah, that about sums it up." Luke grinned, Sonic stepping up to him as well. " Why not just do gloves and shoes? Simple and easy." The Hedgehog added. Zaran thought about it... but still wasn't sure. Luke nudged him. "Don't fret about it Zaran, when you get in there, just look through everything one piece at a time and see what ya like. It's your choice on this." Zaran looked at him, still a bit unsure, but he smiled. "Alright."  The Fox said. The Fox looked down at his outfit, noticing his sandles. "I hope they have shoes that will fit my feet." Sky Smiled to the Fox. "I'm sure they will. They have shoes for all foot sizes, and they'll be comfortable, I promise. " Before Zaran could reply, Rouge spoke up. "Here we are!" Zaran looked up at the building, it looked rather odd many glass windows made up the wall, behind them stood several statues with clothing on, from the shape and look of the statues, the clothing was mostly meant for women "We should have little issue finding some clothes yiu like here Zaran," Rouge said with a wink. "A-Alright." Zaran said, his face slightly red from Rouge's Gaze. As Rouge turned to step inside, Luke spoke up. "Hey girls, I think I'm gonna take the guys and head to the restaurant. Make sure we can get a table." Sky smiled and nodded her head. "That's a good idea! when we're done. We'll meet you there." The Pink echidna replied. Luke wrapped up Sky in his arms and kissed her cheek. "See ya soon," the Octopi said. Sky kissed him on the lips briefly. Luke broke the kiss and walked away. Sonic, Shadow, and Tails heading down the street. Cream looked to Sky. "I think I'll go with them aswell. Cmon Cheese, Chocola." Cream ran after the guys, her two Chao following her. Zaran looked down at Tyke, who was still right by his side. "Yiu can go ahead with them if you want, bud." Tyke shook his head, hugging Zaran's hand. "Thank you. But I want to stay." Zaran felt the Chao's suprisingly strong grip and smiled. "Alright then." Zaran said, petting Tyke with his other hand. "Alrighty, let's get Shopping!~♡" Rouge exclaimed as she heads inside, Zaran and Sky right behind him. ___________________________________________________ [  https://youtu.be/yDq9jVwSm9w?si=nwmzatV2qdiHt6Mu ] The inside of the store smelled odd to the Fox, not bad... but strange. His nose twitching slightly. Sky noticed and quickly turned to him "You alright, Zaran?" Sky asked. Zaran looked at her and nodded. "Yeah...just...there's a strang smell to this place." Sky looked abit baffled by Zaran's answer. "Strange smell?" Sky said. "Probably, Mothballs, they use them to keep moths out." Rouge said, looking back at her two companions. "Oh yeah, that smell. Yeah, it is kinda strange." Sky said with a giggle. "Alright, so where should we start?"  Rouge asked. Zaran looked around at the random clothes hanging from displays. He looked around at the different choices. Rouge stepped over to Sky. "Why don't you go pick out a few pairs of shoes? I'll help him." Sky nods and walks off. Rouge stepped over to the Fox. "Well, for a start, let's go to the men's section... before you try to pick out a skirt." Zaran looked at her. "That... would be a good idea." Zaran walked with the Bat, smiling as she noticed a faint blush on his cheeks. ___________________________________________________ Zaran stepped out of a changing room, in a pair of denim jeans and a blue-green T-shirt. He does a turnaround so Rouge can get a look at him. His toe claws clicking against the hard wood floor. "Not bad...what do you think?" The bat said. Zaran's expression turns pained.."To be honest....these pants are driving me crazy!" The Fox sighed. "What's the problem? To tight? Fur pulling?" Rouge asked? "All that, and I felt too restricted." Zaran answered. "Alright, so pants are no. Maybe shorts would work better?" The bat suggested. Zaran shrugged. "Maybe?" The Fox returned to the dressing room Rouge sighed, partial in frustration... but also feeling bad for the Fox, he just wasn't feeling anything shebfave him to try. This was the fourth outfit he tried, and he still wasn't feeling anything. She walked over to a shelf to look at Shorts, as she did however out of the corner of her eye she spotted a display of Belts, however it wasn't the belts that caught her attention, but a Red Scarf dangling off of it, likely left there by a lazy shopper. She walked over and took it, as she did a brown belt fell from the display, likely snagged on the scarf. At that moment, she had inspiration. She grabbed the belt and took it and the Scarf to the changing room. She trusted them through the curtain. "Try these Big Fox." "Oh? With what?" A confused Zaran asked behind the curtain. "With nothing. Just these." Rouge replied. Zaran didn't reply.. but after a few seconds, she felt him take the Belt and Scarf from her hands. Rouge stepped back and sat down. Eager to see the reveal. Sure enough, after a few moments, Zarans stepped out. The belt around his waist and the scarf around his neck. "Well? What do you think?" Rouge asked. Zaran looked down, feeling the scarf, a smile on his face. "To be honest... I love it!" Rouge smiled her wings, spreading slightly. "Ha ha ha~ I know I'd find you something!" Zaran adjusted the belt slightly. "I wasn't sure how I felt about being...bare...but honestly I see why the others don't mind it...it feels right!" The Fox leaped into the air and did a front flip. "And no restrictions!" Zaran added As he gave the outfit a field test, Sky returned, effortlessly caring several boxes of shoes in her arms. "Oh, going Bare Boy, look, I see?" Sky said with a giggle. Zaran grinned. "Guess so, I was questioning it at first, but....It kinda feels right." "It does fit him, plus he has free use of his wings." Rouge said, admiring her work. "Just need some shoes and gloves." "Well, I have plenty to choose from, so I'm sure that won't be a problem." Sky replied with a wink, setting down the boxes she brought. Zaran walked over and picked up one of the boxes. He sat down on the floor and lifted the lid, revealing a pair of green shoes. Rouge glanced at Sky. "Green Shoes? Seriously?" Sky whsipered back in a sassy tone. "I didn't know what you would have in, so I picked an assortment." Zaran examined them closely before slipping one onto his foot. He looked at it before slipping the other one on as well. The Fox looked back and forth between his feet for a few seconds. "How do they feel, Zaran?" Sky asked. "Well...uh... Like fabric over my feet?" Zaran replied in a rather indifferent tone. "Do they hurt? Or feel loose?" Rouge asked. In response, Zaran stood up and walked around, then felt rather restricting compared to his sandles, but aside from that, they didn't cause him pain. "They feel okay. I'll take them." Zaran said, a small smile on his muzzle. "Well, hold on, don't you wanna try on the other shoes first?" Rouge asked. Zaran just looked at her. "But these ones fit, isn't that what We needed?" "Yeah, but..." Rouge was about to explain, but the look in Zaran's eyes told her all she needed to know. He didn't really pay much mind to fashion. "Eh....Nevermind, aslong as your happy with them." Rouge said... a drop of sweat sliding down her face. Zaran looked rather confused by Rouge but shrugged it off, as he looked back to the Mirror behind him, but as he did a Sharp pain shot through the back of his head, as he felt his hair get tugged. "OW~!" The Fox exclaimed as he whipped around. Sky stepped forward. "Are you alright?" "Y-yeah...it felt like someone tugged my hair." Zarans aid looking around. "Did you see anyone?" Sky looked confused but quickly realised what had happened. "No one pulled your hair. It just snagged on your scarf. My hair does that once in a while, when I wear scarves. downside of having long hair, " Sky giggled. "Guess we should stop by a Barber as well, give you a modern haircut." Rouge suggested. "Hair...cut!?" Zaran said before shaking his head. "Absolutley not!" He said firmly. "Why? You have pretty nice hair. If you styled it, it looks great!" Rouge explained. Zaran shook his head no once again. "You don't understand. My hair's length is a symbol of status." Rouge and Sky raised an eyebrow. Zaran explained "It's an Echidna custom, the longer and Echidna Man's dreads are the older they are, When your a warrior tribe long dreads mean long lives, meaning your a respectable warrior....Since Pachacamac raised me I made the decision to honor that custom aswell." Rouge and Sky both listened. "I see, so your hair is important to you." Sky replied with a smile, as she thought. "I mean, that's understandable, I suppose, though I will warn you, with your figure and hair that long, you could be mistaken for a girl in this day and age." Rouge warned. "You talk like that is a new thing, that has actually happened once of twice back in my time." Zaran chuckled. "Hey, are they're any customs that say you can't style your hair?" Sky asked. Zaran thought about it, then shook his head. "There isn't. What do you have in mind?" Sky walked over, a warm smile on her face as he turned Zaran around. "Turn to the mirror for a minute." Sky carefully took the Fox's hair in her hands and started to braid it. "So Zaran, do you like your new er... outfit?" The echidna asked. The Fox smiled. "They feel liberating, actually." Sky was surprised by his answer. "Oh? How so?" Zaran started to explain, his voice full of joy. "My old robes felt familiar, reminding me of home of my family and friends..." Sky smiled but quickly noticed his smile in the mirror shrinking. "But...they also reminded me of a lot of my loneliness..." Zaran said, staring into the mirror. "Especially how everyone I knew is gone....well almost everyone." Sky glanced in the mirror, at the cute little Chao sitting calmly beside Rouge. Sky noticed Zaran as looking back at him as well a tear forming In his eye. Sky teared up as well as she put her hands on Zaran's shoulders. "I'm so sorry, Zaran, I can only imagine what you're going through... especially with me looking like Sora." Sky hung her head but felt a hand on hers. Looking up to see Zaran looking at her. She smiled and wiped her tears away. "But look at it like this, You still have your memories, of your family and friends and the good times you shared with them, but thanks to Lady Tikaos, you know have a new life to live how you want, and a bunch of new friends to make new memories with aswell." Zaran smiled up at her, his dark eyes glowing with warmth. "I mean if you want... of course." Sky added, smiling back at the Fox. Zaran nods. "I would like that very much." Sky smiled and patted the Fox's head. "Your friends would be so proud of you, Zaran." Zaran looked at Sky in the mirror with a smile. As he looked at her, his mind went to the past. To Sora, who would often do the same thing when he was a boy. The memories bring tears to his eyes. Sky saw this, but before she could ask him what was wrong. The Fox was on his feet, hugging the pink echidna. "Thank you so so much, Lady Sora," the Fox said , Sky, though stunned and confused, simply put a hand on Zaran's back and smiled. "My pleasure, dear." The Echidna replied, a single tear running down her cheek. Behind them, Rouge watched the two Hug, smiling slightly at the cuteness. Sky oats Zaran on the back. "Alrighry, I should finish your Braid, the boys are waiting." Zaran nods and breaks the hug. Turning around to let his friend Finish. As Sky returns to the Braid, Zaran takes a deep breath, a lot of tension he had been feeling all day, finally loosening. The Fox closes his eyes as his friend works on styling his hair. After another minute or so, Sky taps the Fox. "And viola~," Sky said. Zaran opened his eyes, immediately looking at the new hair Braid that rested on his shoulder. "What do you think, my friend?" Sky asked with a smile. Zaran looked at her through the mirror and smiled. "It looks perfect, Thank you so much." Zaran replied. Sky Smiles. "Awww, It was my pleasure." She said with a nod of her head. Zaran smiled up at his friend before looking back to the braid. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Rouge smiling at them before averting her gaze upon seeing him looking at her, this made the Fox chuckle. "Alrighty, let's get these paid for." Sky said as she gathered Zaran's old outfit, quickly putting it in her bag." Zaran looked at Sky with concern. "Pay? Oh dang... I have no money." The Fox stated. The Pink echidna waved this off. "Don't worry, my friend, I'll take care of it." Sky said with a smile. Zaran bowed his head Politley. "I thank you, though I do feel bad you have to waste money on me." Sky raised a hand. "Nonsense. It's perfectly fine, my friend." She said with a warm smile. "Alright, though I will find a way to repay you." Zaran replied. Sky giggled. "Very well." Rouge rolled her eyes playfully. "You two are adorable." The Fox and Echidna look at her before chuckling slightly. Sky approaches the person behind a counter and hands them several Gold Rings. The man hands her a piece of paper, and she turns back to her friends. "Alrighty, shall we go meet the others?" Zaran and Rouge nod and follow her out of the store. ___________________________________________________ As they walk, Zaran notices his reflection in the window. The Fox stops for a moment. "admiring yourself?" Zaran looked over to see Rouge glancing at him. Sky turned and looked back at them, realizing they had stopped. Zaran's cheeks turned slightly red. "I..just have 't really looked at myself before...I mean I have... but never this clearly... I forgot this is how I look to other people." "What do you think?" Rouge asked. Zaran looked back at his reflection and looked himself over. "I think...I look...nice." Sky and Rouge both smile at the fox, and then the three of them resume walking. To be continued....

Rain began to fall, the fires quickly receding into billowing smoke. Zaran looked up into the sky, rain pattering across his face, a smile gracing his muzzle. Nearby Luke tended to Sky's wounds, thankfully mostly bruises and a few scrapes. The Pink echidna smiled as she pecked the Octopus on the beak. "Thank you, Luke." Luke smiled. "Anything for you.~" The sound of footsteps caught their attention. They looked up to see Shadow walking over to Zaran. "Oh no." Sky said, trying to get to her feet. Shadow looked back at her and raised his hand. His expression was calm and surprisingly relaxed. "I'm not looking for a fight, Sky. I just want to talk to him." Sky was surprised by Shadow's demeanor but relaxed and sat back down, though keeping her eyes on them. Shadow approached the Fox. With a twitch of Zaran's ear, he brought his gaze down on Shadow. He said nothing as he kept his eyes locked on the black hedgehog. Shadow knelt down to be eye level with him. "I...Owe you a sincere apology for my aggression before, I was being very Foolish." Zaran paused for a moment before waving it off with a smile. "Don't be, you had no way of knowing what was going on, You were doing what you thought best." The Fox said with a smile. Shadow averted his gaze. "I suppose that is true." Zaran's expression turned sad. "If anything I should be apologizing for what I did to you, I had no idea that my Chaos Bending would leave you Comatose, I was aiming to just render you immobile for a short time so I could explain." Shadow gave a slight chuckle, making several people present looking at him in a slight suprise. "Actually I....want to thank you for that. What you did to me actually helped me." Shadow said his tone rather warm, a far cry to before on angel island. "Oh? How so?" Zaran asks. Shadow proceeded to explain his past, the events onboard the Space colony Ark and his sacrifice to save the earth, and then what happened after. Hearing this, Sky, Luke, and the others were stunned. "Hold up! So you're saying you got your memory back!?" Sonic asked, walking over. Shadow stood up, looked at Sonic, and gave a Nod. The group all got excited. Sky and Luke jumped up in excitement! "That's so wonderful, Shadow!!" Sky cheered. Zaran smiled as he also stood up. "I'm glad I was able to help you, even if it wasn't intentional." "I can't thank you enough. Thanks to your power, you've given me my life back." Shadow said. Rouge smiled. "Guess he was the original after all, right, Omega?" "Affirmative," the robot stated. "Good for you, bud!" Sonic said, putting an arm around Shadow's shoulders with a big smile on his face. Sky walked over and gave the Black Hedgehog a Hug. The Hedgehog hugged back. Suddenly, an unfamiliar voice caught everyone off guard. "Zaran.." The group all at once noticed the grey Chao as it flew over to Zaran. "D-Did that Chao just speak!?!?" Tails Exclaimed. "I didn't know Chao could talk!?" Cream said in shock. The Grey Chao stopped before Zaran, Zaran smiling and patting the small creature on the head. "You must be a very long-lived Chao to have mastered speech. Thank you for your aid before I owe you much than-" Zaran suddenly faultered as he studied the Chao. The Chao smiling at him. "Wait..T-Tyke!?" Zaran fumbled as he processed things. The Chao nodded. Zaran was floored, literally dropping to his knees as he pulled the Chao into his arms and held it. Sky teared up slightly as she watched the old friends hug. "I can't believe it!! It's so amazing to see you, my friend!!" The Fox said tears forming in his eyes as he embraced his old companion. The same could be said for the small Chao as he hugged the Fox back. "I Had thought I'd never see you again, Zaran!!" "Wait...Zaran, you know this, Chao?" Tails asked. The Fox looked at him and nodded. The Fox was floored. "But that means that chao is at least 4000 years old!?" Rouge raised an eyebrow in suprise. Wow, I didn't think Chao could live that long?" "Well, Tikal did say those Chao that came to see Chaos were the same ones she knew thousands of years ago." Sonic replied. Tyke overheard them and turned to face them. "Living that long...isn't exactly what happens.." Sonic and Tails look to the Chao. "What do you mean?" Tails asked. "Chao don't live forever normally, we grow old and pass on like most life, however when we die we Reincarnate back into eggs and go again, retaining our memories.." Tyke explained. "Huh, that's pretty convenient." Sonic said. "That's incredible! I kind of wish I had a chao companion." Sky said with a smile. Tyke seemed baffled by her words, Zaran stood and gave The Chao a pat on the head, making him almost purr like a kitten. "Tyke though has managed to do what few Chao have done, He's became a Chaos Chao. Something my own mentor once spoke off." Zaran added. "Chaos... Chao?" Tails repeated. Before the chat could continue, Rouge cleared her throat. "*Ahem* boys before we continue this little conversation, can we head somewhere dry first? I'm sure I can speak for Sky as well when I say I'd rather not stand in the rain." The bat said. Sky giggled. "She's not wrong, I would like to get somewhere warm as well." The boys all chuckle before nodding in agreement. "Let's head back to HQ then. It's not too far. A quick Jogg. " Sonic suggested. "For you and Shadow, maybe." Rouge replied with sarcasm. The group all chuckled before starting to head out. Zaran petting Tyke as he puts him on his shoulder, Tyke's Smile getting bigger as he nuzzles into Zaran's Cheek tuft. Sky admiring the bond between them... but at the same time, a wave of familiarity about the whole scene passes over her. ___________________________________________________ (Above the Western Sea, the Egg fleet) Eggman growled in frustration at his most recent setback. Not only cause Gemerl was left in critical need of repairs, but the fact that once again he has lost a valuable asset in the core of that Silver Fox. "Blasted Antiques, My Goddess Clone, turned Traitor!! Metal's Power core, lost to that Black-eyed Freak of a fox!!..My Loyal Gizoid...critically damaged! Eggman slammed his fists on his terminal. "I swear the next person to give me bad news will be forcefully crammed into a prisoner for the next decade!!!" Just then, the door to his study opens, The doctor turns to reprimand the intruder for bothering him...when to his suprise, he finds Metal Sonic, heavily damaged but functional, strolling into his room. "Metal? For what reason are you bothering me?" The robot holds out his hand, Eggman was puzzled by this gesture....until he noticed the coating dried red liquid on his fingers. "Oh? Did you bring me a present?" Eggman asked? "From who does this interesting sample come from? from? He quickly notices a few strands of grey fur stuck in Metal's finger joints. The doctor's expression quickly turns into a big sinister smile. "Ohhohoho Metal, you spoil me with these gifts." Eggman said as he quickly harvested some of the blood and fur and put it into some vials from his jacket pocket before turning to his terminal. And began typing Way. "Sky was too free willed for her own good....her New Sibling will have to be stripped of that flaw." Eggman began to chuckle to himself as he began to hatch another Vile Scheme, the Chuckling turning into Violent insane Cackling! ___________________________________________________ (Freedom HQ) As the Heroes arrive, the rain has begun to really pick up. "OH NO!!!!" Sky exclaimed as she and Rouge ran inside. Luke, Sonic, Shadow, and Tails right behind them. Omega walking in casually behind them. Zaran carried Tyke behind him, unbothered by the rain. As everyone turns to look at Zaran, they can't help but chuckle, the Fox absolutely soaked, his hair over his eyes, and his tails looking awful. "Gosh Zaran, you look great." Sonic joked. At that moment, Zaran sets Tyke down with a devilish look on his face as he begins to shake himself off like a dog would. The guys around him panicking as they try desperately to shield themselves from the spray. Sky and Rouge Laughing at their reactions. Zaran finishes and runs his fingers through his hair. "That's better." The fox said confidently as his Tails fanned. Sonic, Shadow, Luke, and Tails scowling at him. "Gosh guys, you all look awesome, Need somthing to dry off?" Zaran said jokingly. "Ha ha, you're a riot." Sonic mocked with a smirk. Sky walks over to the fireplace and snaps her fingers at it, a spark of Chaos energy flicking into the wood and lighting it. "Come stand by the fire. Boys, this should dry you off." Sky said. The boys save for Zaran all did so, The Grey Fox was letting his eyes Wander across this new friends home. A few photos caught his eye as he walked over and looked at them. Most of them depicted Sonic and Tails, a lot of them looking to be from when they were younger... but there were plenty of ones with Sky and Luke aswell in strange locations he had never seen. One also depicted Rouge as well as Knuckles and Even...Dr.Eggman!? They all looked rather somber. "Probably wondering what happened there?" Rouge asked, walking over. "Kind of... Was Eggman once an ally or something?" Zaran asked, studying the photo. The Bat shook her head. "Nah...it was purely mutual..This was taken after Shadow's Sacrifice... Tails snapped it as we were leaving the Ark. "The...Space station, right?" Zaran muttered..."Too think there really is more than just our world...places higher than the Sky." "Kinda mind blowing for someone from your time, huh?" Rouge asked. "Not nessicarily... a friend of mine theorized there had to be more to life than just what we could see. This was one of her theories....She'd be ecstatic to know she was right." Zaran said with a small smile. "Oh a "She?" Did you have someone back in your time?" Rouge Playfully prodded. Zaran looked at her, his eyes telling her it's not a subject to pry about. "Sorry, Big Fox." The Bat said. "It's fine." Zaran said. His expression turned somewhat glum. After drying off, Sonic sits on the sofa. "So Egghead rebuilt Emerl....and turned him into another Badnik...Grr...Sometimes he really ticks me off. "It's just his parts...I doubt Emerl is still there." Tails replied. "I really hope not, Emerl's been through so much already..." Cream said, holding back tears for her old friend, Cheese, and Chocola snuggling her to try and comfort her. His new friend's bringing up the Modified Gizoid makes a growl escape Zaran's lips. "He disgraced that Gizoid with his grimy hands...I will get him back for that." "You have some kinda bond with that robot, Bud?" Sonic asked. Zaran remained quiet for a few seconds, the look in his eyes telling the Blue Hedgehog he was thinking. Finally, Zaran nodded. "In a way....My Very Dear Friend designed them." The revalation stunned the entire group, but none were more fascinated than Tails. "Wait, really!?!?" Tails said his tails Twirling as he hovered towards Zaran. Zaran was mildly surprised by the Small Fox's sudden Asscent.. but he replied. "Yes...they were meant to be Guards for the local villages...but then ended up in the Nocturnus Clan's Hands where they were turned into an army....My friend Rubella was taken in by them after the Knuckles Tribe suddenly turned Hostile towards everyone....as was I..after Pachacamac almost took my life in an assisnation attempt...I had never felt more betrayed." Zarna said a pained look on his face. "That can't be, you said Pachacamac took you in. Did you not? Why would he do such a thing!?" Sky said, shocked by Zaran's words. Zaran looked away, the answer clearly angering him. "He was brainwashed......A year after, I found out it was all the Nocturnus Clan's Doing... they had used The Knuckles tribe to wipe out My people, the Kyubbi....IX..there leader. told me right to my face....I battled him....I lost... My friend tried to save....she ended up being Frozen in Ice by one of her own Gizoids..." Zaran teared up as he gritted his teeth, Ruby's horrified expression burned into his memory. He felt a hand on his shoulder, then another. He looked to see Sky, her eyes wet with tears of her own, Shadow on his other side, Eyes dry, but they told the Fox he knew the pain he was feeling. "I'm sorry, I truly am." Shadow said. "It wasn't your fault....besides....IX got what he deserved....He and his entire city were uprooted by... something....large." The group was surprised by this revelation. Zaran continued. "It lifted the whole city into some kind of portal... No one but me got out." Tails looked deep in thought. "So this...Nocturnus tribe... they must have been the great civilization mentioned in Proffessor Gerald's notes...though they clearly weren't THAT great...This...Rubella...I would love to have met her." Zaran smiled slightly. "She would have loved to meet all of you as well..." Zaran sat on the floor, taking a deep breath. Sonic steps up. "Perhaps we should think about getting some food?" Sky looked to the Hedgehog, slightly irritated in his apparent lack of sympathy... but she spotted a tear in his eye as well. She figures he must be trying to lighten the mood. Suddenly, a loud and clear Rumble is hearing everyone looking down at its source. Zaran Burst is into a fit of Chuckling. "I....Could really use some food...I haven't eaten anything cept for some Fruit. "If we plan on going somewhere, I think it might be time to give this Fox some Modern Clothes as well." Rouge said, stepping up. Zaran got up and looked at her, slightly bewildered. "No offense, sweetie, your garb is nice... but you stick out really hard." Rouge explained. Zaran looked down at his Guardian Garb, then up at his friends outfits...well, the ones that had outfits. The Fox gave a nod. "You're right...what do you suggest?" Rouge smiled. "I have a few ideas." "What are we all feeling like?" Tails asked. Sonic shrugged. "I'm good with whatever." Luke stepped forward. "Why don't we let Zaran choose?" "I like that idea!" Sky replied with a smile. She turned to Zaran. "What do you like to eat, Zaran?" "I....I eat Fish...and Fruit." Zaran replied...with an awkward smile. "Like... Raw fish?" Sonic asked. Zaran turned to look at the Hedgehog. "Sometimes... when I don't want to build a fire." The group looked slightly...off put by the Fox's choice. "If it's alright mind if we do Sushi...it's like raw fish but less...risky?" Rouge asked. The Fox raised his eyebrow at the bat. "Yeah... I know what sushi is, that's fine." Zaran said with a smile. The group breathes a sigh of relief. To be continued...