Chapter 1: Title Screen and Opening Cinematic
Summary:
A bit of fun to start things off. What if the remaster had a title select screen and opening cinematics? Something similar I did for KH II BBE.
Please enjoy.
Lack of pictures - but something I'd like to add down the road.
Chapter Text
[White screen fades in.]
The Disney Interactive logo appears, lingering briefly.
Fade out.
The Square Enix logo follows.
Fade out.
The SEGA logo flashes with a classic blue glow. The nostalgic "SE-GAAA!" jingle echoes just like the old school days.
Fade out.
The Sonic Team logo appears next.
Sonic: (Roger Craig Smith, Sonic's VA, is heard with his usual energetic tone):
"Sonic Team!"
The ring jingle from the Sonic games plays, shimmering into the distance.
[White screen holds for a beat. It shifts into a translucent brightness as a soft musical cue begins.]
"Dearly Beloved History"
(Kingdom Hearts x Sonic the Hedgehog mashup by The Majin Glaceon) begins to play in the background
Title Fades In:
Kingdom Hearts: Blue Blur Saga 1.5 Re:Mastered
Developed by Square Enix & Sonic Team
Written by FictionWriterHaz18
Story Selection Menu Appears:
Choose the story you'd like to read:
Kingdom Hearts: Blue Blur Edition Re:Master [0% Completed]
Kingdom Hearts: Shadows of the Past: A Fragmentary Passage Re:Master [Coming Soon]
Chain of Generations Re:MiX [Shadow x Aqua's story on going - 40% Completed]
>> Blue Blur Edition Re:Master is chosen
[White screen flash transition. The menu screen loads.]
"Dearly Beloved History" continues playing softly...
Menu Visual:
Sora stands barefoot in the shallows of Destiny Island's ocean. The surf gently rolls over his feet. He holds a wooden stick loosely in his right hand and gazes quietly out to sea.
Standing beside him in ankle-deep water is Sonic, his signature red and white shoes glisten in the tide.
Sonic's left hand is raised, shielding his green eyes as he scans the horizon. In his right hand, he holds the shimmering blue Chaos Emerald.
Menu Options:
New Game
Load
Theater
Soundtracks
Options
Back
>> New Game is chosen
New Menu Appears:
Select Story Version:
The Original (Original October 2023. Major bugs and errors. Would not recommend!)
Final Mix (Updated Patch: 2024. Slight changes and improved story. Still available in Library)
Re:Master (Updated Path: 2025. Even more defined and improved upon. Long Term Re-write and Remaster.)
>> Re:Master is selected
When hovering over Remaster: Blue Blur Edition, a small text box appears:
The story begins again.
A remaster and rewrite of the first Blue Blur Saga story in the series.
Inspired by the Kingdom Hearts Novels.
Sharper storytelling, new and improved dialogue, better continuity, and additional journal entries.
Plus... new features and secrets yet to be discovered.
The soft Kingdom Hearts "selection chime" echoes as the version is confirmed.
[Music fades out with a final echo of the chime.]
Screen fades from white… to black.
Introduction Cutscene:
Darkness. A swirl of storm clouds brews in the void. Thunder rumbles and flashes of lightning crackle through the shadows.
Disney Interactive Studios
Square Enix
SEGA
Sonic Team
KINGDOM HEARTS: BLUE BLUR EDITION RE:MASTER
The clouds part suddenly—whoosh—rushing toward the screen like a portal tearing open.
SORA floats aimlessly, unconscious. Wind stirs the air, his necklace keychain swaying with the breeze that seems to come from nowhere.
Golden letters shimmer across the void.
"I've been having these weird thoughts lately...
Like, is any of this for real... or not?"
Scene shifts to Sonic's World – Green Hill Zone
Sonic the Hedgehog races across checkered plains and dashes into a loop-de-loop, the blue sky and sun bright overhead. He skids to a halt, kicking up dirt, his green eyes widen as he looks skyward.
A single dark storm cloud forms above unnaturally, heavy with dark energy.
Golden text appears across the dark cloud.
"Ever get the feeling you're runnin' towards something...
but you're not sure what it is?
Or why it matters?"
"Guess there's only one way to find out."
["Simple and Clean – Planitb Remix" by Utada Hikaru begins to play.]
The screen fades to white.
Words dissolve softly into the background as Sora's heartbeat echoes faintly. We see him falling—weightless—through a sea of white. His eyes are closed, drifting deeper into the abyss.
The emptiness around him gradually turns into water. Bubbles rise in his wake as he descends further.
A faint barrier of light appears beneath him. The moment he passes through it, his eyes snap open.
Sora finds himself standing on a sunlit beach of the Destiny Islands. Clear skies. Calm waves. He blinks, disoriented. The scene is warm, peaceful.
In the shallow waters ahead stands Riku, back turned. Sora raises a hand to block the sunlight.
Sora steps forward, calling out—but before he can speak, the ocean begins to recede, unnaturally.
A massive wave forms on the horizon.
Riku slowly turns his head, wind catching his silver hair. He gives a subtle smirk and extends his hand toward Sora—beckoning.
Sora runs. But time slows.
The wave crashes over them, immense and unstoppable. Sora spins underwater, his arms reaching. He rights himself, eyes locking onto Riku, who stands unfazed amid the chaos, still holding out his hand.
Sora reaches—but he's swept away.
The screen shifts to Sonic the Hedgehog, sprinting full speed down a twisting, surreal pathway. It curves, loops, spirals upside down and inside out—but Sonic never stops. His expression is pure determination.
He glances at the viewer with his signature confident smirk.
As Sonic charges forward through the twisting corridor of light, glowing windows to the past flare open around him, each memory like a fleeting star in motion.
He sees himself racing through the Scrap Brain Zone, as Doctor Eggman cackles from a control pod high above.
In a flash, he's with his best friend Tails in the electric neon wonderland of Casino Night Zone, bouncing between bumpers and slot machines as rings scatter into the air.
The vision shifts to the crumbling ruins of Sky Sanctuary, clouds swirling beneath as he dashes across crumbling platforms, closing in on the Death Egg.
The scene shifts to show Sonic now racing Metal Sonic, the air thick with smog in a decaying Stardust Speedway Bad Future. Sparks fly as their race pushes to the limit.
Suddenly, he's diving down the side of a skyscraper in Station Square, dodging police drones in a high-speed chase.
The scene rolls into City Escape. Sonic barrels downhill, as the massive G.U.N. truck crashes through cars and obstacles behind him.
Then, he's back with Tails and Knuckles, racing together across the tropical cliffs of Seaside Hill, their teamwork in perfect sync.
In Soleanna, fireworks burst in the background as Sonic races through the city festival, scattering Eggman's robots with spinning kicks and speed bursts. This vision is a mystery to the blue hedgehog for some reason.
A shadow falls. It's nighttime in Spagonia, and Sonic is transformed. The Werehog slams down on twisted beasts, his long arms swinging wide, while Chip floats nearby, cheering him on.
The corridor darkens to the forests of Camelot, where Sonic wields the sword Caliburn. He clashes with Sir Lancelot, blades sparking in heated combat.
More memories appear, too many to count. Running through pink water, soaring through space, racing his rival Shadow, facing titans and running through the mystic ruins. The corridor lights blur with motion.
There's not enough time to see them all.
But Sonic keeps running, a smirk on his face. The past behind him, the future ahead.
The hedgehog surges forward into a blinding light.
The intro cuts back to Sora, now breaking the surface of the ocean. He gasps, water dripping from his face as the sun lowers in the sky.
On the distant shore, Kairi waves, calling his name, bright-eyed.
Sora smiles, waving back, and begins walking towards her.
She bounces on her feet happily, hands tucked behind her back. Sora reaches her and bends over, catching his breath. He glances up with a smirk.
Kairi giggles.
But then… she stops. Her smile fades. Her eyes look to the sky.
Sora stands. He turns.
A meteor shower rains from the heavens. Among them a shadowy figure descends.
Sora's breath catches in his throat.
It's him!
A perfect, distorted mirror of himself, falling from the sky.
As Sora reaches for Kairi, the sky and ocean twist. Her image ripples—revealed to be only a reflection.
Sora falls once again. His eyes close. Bubbles trail behind him as he sinks into darkness.
Pop!
One of the bubbles bursts with a shimmer of energy—and Sonic reappears, sprinting through the surreal corridor once more.
Now, visions of friends light the path.
Tails, adjusting a yellow device.
Knuckles, mid-strike with his spiked fists.
Amy Rose, wielding her iconic Piko Piko Hammer.
Shadow, arms crossed and brooding.
Rouge, flashing a playful wink.
Team Chaotix— Vector, Espio, and Charmy pose confidently.
Silver, he appears in a green flashing light.
Finally E-123 Omega is seen, ready for action.
Sonic races past all of them with resolve.
Suddenly Dr. Eggman materialises, laughing loudly with hands on his hip.
That vision shatters as Sonic arrives in the First District of Traverse Town. He skids to a halt on the cobbled streets, gaslights flickering around him. He looks up at the stars above—but one by one, they begin to fade.
The scene changes again.
Inside a grand room in Disney Castle, Donald and Goofy study a strange letter, their faces full of curiosity and confusion.
Queen Minnie and Daisy look on, deeply concerned.
Donald tosses the letter in the air. The Mickey Mouse emblem is seen at the bottom of the scene dissolves into black ink of Mickey's signature.
The Realm of Darkness appears from the scene switch.
Aqua, alone, stands firm, fighting back waves of Shadow Heartless with her Keyblade, Master's Defender.
She spins, slashes, and clears a path, but as the last enemy falls, a thick mist swirls in.
From within, glowing lime-green eyes with red irises emerge from its depths.
Her fate, uncertain.
The screen flares once more.
The seven Chaos Emeralds— green, blue, red, yellow, purple, cyan, and silver—spin rapidly in the void.
We see Tikal, hands clasped in prayer, whispering softly as a radiant light engulfs the screen.
A brief glimpse of Super Sonic is seen. He's glowing with golden power, his now amber eyes burning with intensity.
Back to Sora.
The boy lands on a dark, glass-like platform suspended in space.
He stumbles forward.
He takes a step and the platform shines with bright light.
Suddenly, a massive flock of birds bursts upwards from the light, scattering in every direction. Their wings shimmer, feathers raining down like starlight.
Sora looks up in fascination, watching the fly off into the darkness around him.
The screen goes black and the intro music fades out.
The Saga Begins again—Remastered.
* Credit to Majin Glaceon's Youtube Channel for the Dearly Beloved History mix. Go check it out *
This story is a rework of the original Blue Blur Edition, which is still available in the original Blue Blur Saga Series.
While the core story, major beats, and much of the continuity will feel familiar, this version is a full rewrite. As a result, some elements have been adjusted, refined, or lightly retconned to improve clarity, pacing, and long-term consistency. Please keep that in mind as you read.
I chose to start again for a few simple reasons: life has gotten busier, I've grown as a writer (I'd like to think!), and revisiting the original made it clear there was room to tell this story with more focus and cohesion. The foundation was always there — this version is about realising that potential more cleanly.
This rewrite isn't about erasing what came before. I'm genuinely proud of the original and what it achieved. That said, this is now the definitive version of the saga moving forward, and any changes made are intentional and in service of the story.
Constructive feedback is always welcome. I do ask, however, that it's shared in good faith and with respect — not every creative choice will be everyone's preference, and that's okay. This is a passion project, written for enjoyment.
Thank you to everyone who's stuck with the story, returned for the rewrite, or is discovering it for the first time. I hope you enjoy the journey.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything you recognise. Sonic the Hedgehog and related characters belong to SEGA. Kingdom Hearts and Disney worlds/characters belong to Disney and Square Enix. Final Fantasy, and any other franchises or characters that appear, belong to their respective creators. I'm just a fan having fun and telling a complex crossover story. No copyright infringement intended.
Chapter 2: Mobius' Fate
Summary:
A normal showdown between Sonic and Eggman ends in the darkness spreading across Mobius.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
[See Writer's Notes and explanation on the series in End Notes]
There are many worlds adrift in the Lanes Between. Some are fairy tales made real, others cloaked in shadow and sorrow. There are lands where magic flows freely, where ancient mysteries lie hidden in castles, deserts, or under the sea. Some worlds flourish with advanced technology, while others cling to tradition, thriving on mystery and memory.
From sunsets beyond time to famous clock towers, tropical paradises, and cities built on dreams, imagination runs deep across the stars.
But among them all one world stands out.
Mobius.
A vibrant, unpredictable world of chaos and harmony. A planet where emerald hills roll beneath golden skies, where cities rise and secrets lie beneath every shadow. From the Green Hills of South Island to the bustling metropolis of Station Square, from the molten depths of Lava Reef to the ancient Kingdom of Soleanna—Mobius is a world of wonder, and far too big for one story alone.
But our story begins in a quieter corner: the Mystic Ruins, a mysterious, jungle-wrapped region just north of Station Square. A winding railway connects the two, though most travelers don't venture far beyond the cliffs.
Tucked into the base of a two-story bluff, just east of the train platform, stands the workshop of Miles "Tails" Prower.
Inside, the genius two-tailed fox hunched over a control console, reviewing a swirl of data projected in glowing amber holograms. Readings. Energy signatures. Faulty spikes in planetary axis calibration. None of it should still be here, not after the world had been saved.
The recent Dark Gaia incident had left its scars across the world.
Not long ago, the villainous genius Dr. Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik used a corrupted Chaos Energy Cannon to fracture Mobius itself, unleashing an ancient deity of destruction. His goal? To fuel the twisted creation of Eggmanland, a place of chaos powered by darkness.
But, in true Eggman fashion, his plan failed spectacularly.
Thanks to the world's fastest hero Sonic the Hedgehog, Dark Gaia was sealed once more, the world pieced back together, and the scars left by its rage began to heal. It was just the latest in a long list of things Sonic had helped stop and prevent.
From rescuing animals turned into Badniks, to stopping Eggman's attempts to harness the Chaos Emeralds and Master Emerald for his Death Egg, Sonic had faced gods, monsters, and machines. He fought Perfect Chaos, the ancient deity that flooded Station Square, and even survived a battle in space to stop the Final Hazard; alongside his darker rival, Shadow the Hedgehog.
He's saved the world more times than he can count.
And yet, Tails couldn't shake the feeling that something was still wrong.
The data he was collecting didn't lie. Planetary energy fields remained unstable. Ancient readings, long thought dormant, had begun to flicker again—subtle, but insistent. Most strange of all were the stars themselves. Some had begun to vanish.
Not burn out. Not collapse.
They were simply vanishing. One by one.
Tails leaned forward, adjusting a dial as an overlay of the Mobius night sky flickered onto his screen. Red Xs marked the stars that had vanished during last night's scan. There were more than the night before.
"According to the data… they're not fading. They're just gone," Tails murmured, his eyes scanning the screen in front of him.
He tapped his gloved fingers against the console, his twin tails swaying slowly with unease. Whatever this was, it wasn't natural. Something out there was disrupting the balance of the universe itself.
A creeping dread stirred in the young fox's chest.
His blue eyes drifted to a nearby shelf. Resting atop it was a familiar communicator. He hadn't needed to use it since the Dark Gaia incident.
He moved towards the device and picked it up carefully.
"Sonic…" he said, concern etched into his face. "I don't know if you can hear this… but something big is coming. And this time…"
He hesitated, his eyes narrowing as he looked out the window toward the bright daylight above Mystic Ruins. But he could see a dark storm cloud rolling in.
"This time, it might be bigger than us all."
Meanwhile…
Across on South Island, the warm sun beamed down from Mobius's endless azure skies, casting golden light over the rolling, majestic hills of Green Hill Zone.
Emerald-coloured grass, lush and vibrant, swayed in time with the gentle breeze that swept through the landscape. The cheerful birdsong of the Flickies filled the air, creating a harmonious melody that celebrated the tranquility of this idyllic haven.
It was almost hard to believe that Green Hill belonged to a world like Mobius—a planet where serenity and chaos danced hand in hand, where adventure lurked just beyond the next loop-de-loop.
At the heart of this vibrant land, atop a sun-kissed hill crowned by a solitary palm tree, stood Sonic the Hedgehog.
The legendary Blue Blur himself.
His red-and-white shoes gleamed in the sunlight, and that trademark confident smirk played across his face as he gazed out at the beautiful horizon. His vibrant green eyes scanned the familiar landscape of waterfalls, twisting paths, and checkered cliffs.
For the first time in weeks… he felt at home.
After saving the world from Dark Gaia, then getting whisked into a living storybook where he wielded the sacred blade Caliburn, a little peace and quiet wasn't too much to ask. Was it?
The wind rolled lazily across Green Hill Zone as Sonic took in the view, arms folded behind his head.
"Man… sure has been a wild few weeks," he said with a grin. "Saving the world from Dark Gaia, then getting zapped into some storybook with knights and a talking sword… yeah, still processing that one. But nothing beats being back here."
Sadly, the peace didn't last long.
"My, my… what a wonderful view," came a smug voice from above. "The Green Hills of this zone never get old even for me!"
Sonic's smile fell flat. He sighed, arms dropping to his sides.
"And there goes my peace and quiet…"
He looked up, his expression flattening into focused annoyance.
Hovering above him in his Egg Mobile was none other than Dr. Eggman. Crimson coat, goggles perched atop his bald head, and that glorious moustache fluttering in the breeze like it had its own ego.
"Long time no see, Egghead," Sonic called up with a taunting tone. "But can we maybe not do this right now? I'm kinda on vacation after your last 'destroy the world' scheme fell flat."
Eggman chuckled, rubbing his gloved hands together. "Oh, I don't think so, Sonic. This reunion is long overdue."
"Really? It's been, like, what… a few weeks at best?" Sonic smirked, shrugging. "You miss me that bad or something?"
"You flatter yourself," Eggman sneered, waving a hand dismissively. "But rest assured—this time, I've come prepared."
"Wow. No long rant? No monologue?" Sonic tilted his head, scratching the back of his head. "You're slipping. You okay up there? Need a nap? A therapist?"
"Enough!" Eggman snapped, throwing up his hands. "Time for the big reveal!"
He pressed a button on his wrist.
Vrrrmm—
From above, something massive descended with a mechanical roar. Gleaming red metal, burning jet wings, and the sound of searing engines split the sky.
Sonic squinted, taking in the mech. "Oh, you brought that thing again?"
The towering machine dropped and levitated above the ground with a thundering boom, shaking the air and ground beneath Sonic's feet. The Egg Mobile locked into the mech's torso like a throne accepting its king.
Eggman leaned back, smug and ready. "Say hello to the Egg Dragoon Mark II!"
The machine roared to life. It was sleeker, taller, and deadlier.
Its left arm pulsed with red light—a jagged, chaos-infused drill. Its right bore a high-speed, multi-barreled energy cannon. Jets flared to life behind its spine.
Sonic tilted his head, unimpressed. He placed his hands on his hips and tapped his foot.
"Mark II, huh? Gotta admit, it's shinier than the first. But hey, I'm still gonna turn it into scrap."
Eggman jabbed a finger from his cockpit. "Mock me all you want, you nasty little pincushion! But I will have my revenge!"
Sonic stretched then pointed to the mech with a smirk. "Okay, Eggman… let's scramble your new toy's circuits and send it back to the scrap yard."
The fight for Green Hill Zone was on.
Egg Dragoon Mark II
Battle Music: Egg Dragoon (From Sonic Unleashed) - by GaMetal starts playing)
"Checkmate, Sonic. I hope you said your goodbyes," Eggman jeered from his cockpit, his voice amplified through the mech's external speakers.
The Egg Dragoon Mark II hissed with mechanical fury, its drill-arm spinning violently while its energy cannon rotated with an ominous hum. Blue propulsion wings flickered to life behind it, lifting the mech effortlessly into the sky. The polished red armour gleamed in the sunlight. But even in all its upgraded glory, Sonic looked unimpressed.
"Really?" Sonic tilted his head, gesturing at the machine. "You opened with that line again? C'mon, Egghead… reboot your dialogue or something."
"Why you little—!" Eggman's teeth clenched. "Egg Dragoon... FIRE!"
The cannon spun and unleashed a blazing salvo. Fireballs rained down like a meteor storm. Sonic shot forward, a burst of blue streaking past the first explosion.
"Whoops! Too slow!" he shouted, skidding up a rock wall and launching into a mid-air Spin Dash.
He ricocheted off the Dragoon's shoulder plating and flipped gracefully backwards, landing in a crouch. Sparks flickered where his spin had connected, but the mech remained intact.
"Thick plating this time," Sonic muttered, standing up straighter. "Well, kinda thick."
Eggman cackled as the Dragoon's wings flared, lifting it even higher. "You're not getting out of this one! The Egg Dragoon Mark II is powered by data on your every move! Built to counter you!"
"Right…" Sonic grinned, revving up. "Then I guess I better show you some new ones."
"Wait, what do you mean by that?"
"Oh, you'll see soon enough, Eggy!" Sonic teased cryptically.
The Dragoon responded by slamming its drill into the ground.
Thooom!
The earth split in a violent crackle of lightning. Bolts surged from the impact, forcing Sonic to leap as blue electricity chased his heels.
"Try dodging THIS!" Eggman bellowed, triggering the ice cannon.
A concentrated freeze blast fired in a straight line. Sonic barely dodged beneath it, the frost crystallising a stone cliff behind him with a sharp CRACK! that echoed through Green Hill.
"Okay, I'll give you that one. Little chillier than usual," Sonic quipped as he homing-attacked off a spring pad and launched straight at the mech's core.
BOOM!
Sonic struck the undercarriage, but the Dragoon's wings flared violently, throwing him back mid-air.
"Oof!" He tumbled but recovered, skidding across the grass with sparks trailing from his shoes.
Eggman leaned forward, snarling. "Face it, Sonic. You're outdated. It's over!"
"Outdated?" Sonic's expression twisted into a playful smirk. "Says the guy running on code from 2008."
The ground trembled again. The Dragoon charged its drill with violet electricity then launched it like a homing missile. Sonic zipped sideways, narrowly avoiding the projectile, which exploded behind him in a spray of shattered stone, grass, and steam.
Sonic exhaled and stood tall. "Alright, no more playing around."
A deep hum surged in the air around him. A faint blue aura crackled to life—Sonic's form vibrating with pure kinetic energy.
"What the?" Eggman remarked in surprise. "What are you doing?"
"Oh, just something I've been working on since our last encounter, Eggman…" Sonic said calmly, grinning. "Let's kick it up a notch—Phantom Rush style!"
"Wait, what?!"
In a blur, Sonic vanished.
Eggman's eyes widened from behind his glasses. "W-What?! Where'd he—?!"
Suddenly, dozens of afterimages surrounded the Egg Dragoon, each striking in rapid succession.
Wham! Wham! WHAM!
Sonic's speed multiplied, his forms overlapping like flickers of lightning. Every hit chipped away at the mech's armour, until one afterimage struck the cockpit directly.
BOOM!
Sparks flew. One of the Dragoon's energy wings flickered erratically. Eggman panicked.
"Wha—HEY! Don't fall apart on me now!" he bellowed, slamming buttons inside the cockpit frantically.
The cannon overloaded. The wing unit shorted. The drill arm sparked with smoke.
"Aw, c'mon, Egghead," Sonic teased, landing smoothly back on the ground. His eyes locked on the malfunctioning mech. "This is Mark II? Are you sure about that? Sounds more like 'Egg Dragoon 1.5 HD ReMiX Remastered Turbo Deluxe Director's Cut… & Knuckles.'"
"THAT'S NOT FUNNY!" Eggman shrieked from the cockpit, red-faced and flailing as warning lights blared around him.
Sonic gave a cheeky shrug. "Could've fooled me."
The hedgehog rocketed skyward again, a blur of blue light tearing through the air. Curling into a tight spin mid-flight, he aimed directly at the mech's chest plate.
KRRAAAK-KOOM!
The impact echoed like thunder.
The Egg Dragoon Mark II shuddered violently. Flames erupted from the core. Circuits fried, energy veins burst, and both wing units sparked out with a dying whine. The main cannon exploded in a shower of sparks.
Inside the cockpit, Eggman's fists slammed against the control panel. "No! Not like this! Not again!"
With one final mechanical groan, the towering mech lurched and dropped like a boulder.
BOOOOOOM!
The hillside shook. Grass was flattened beneath the force. A rising pillar of smoke coiled into the sky like the aftermath of a failed rocket launch.
Silence fell. Only the gentle breeze rolled over the ruined field, swaying the grass beneath a sun-soaked sky.
Sonic dropped from above and landed lightly in a crouch. He straightened, brushing himself off with one gloved hand.
Behind him, the Egg Dragoon Mark II lay in ruin. Sparks crackled across its broken frame, and a few panels fell off with pathetic clanks.
Sonic turned casually, placing one hand on his hip. With the other, he wagged a finger towards the smouldering hulk of scrap metal. "Welp… guess your deluxe remaster still needs a few patches. Might wanna get QA on that, Egghead."
A groan rose from the wreckage, followed by the familiar voice of defeat. "I hate you…"
Sonic grinned, eyes gleaming. "Aw, buddy." He leaned forward slightly, smirking wide. "You say that every time."
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: S
"Ooh, S-Rank?" Sonic mused with a mock-surprised tone. "Still got the magic touch, even when I'm on vacation."
He gave a casual spin, kicking up a swirl of wind behind him, then struck his signature pose—one finger pointed skyward, one leg kicked back, a cocky wink aimed straight at the world. "Too easy! Piece of cake."
He paused, then added, just loud enough for Eggman to hear from the wreckage. "Now that's what I call a remaster."
From within the twisted remains of the Egg Dragoon II, smoke curling around him, Dr. Eggman climbed out, grumbling under his breath. His red jumpsuit was smudged with soot, and his once-pristine moustache now hung in frazzled curls. He coughed, waving a gloved hand in front of his face.
"I can't believe this…" he muttered, looking up at the victorious hedgehog. He stomped his boot into the ground. "I was supposed to beat you this time!"
"Oh, I'm sorry—but I beat you every time," Sonic replied with a taunting tone.
"This isn't over, Sonic!" Eggman shouted, shaking a gloved fist as he stumbled.
"Yeah, yeah... keep telling yourself that. You've been saying that for years." Sonic chuckled, waving a dismissive hand.
But just as he turned away with his usual swagger, something changed.
Sonic's ears twitched.
He stopped cold.
The hedgehog's head turned slowly as a low, eerie rumble echoed across the skies. "...Huh?"
Eggman, dusting himself off, noticed the sudden shift in Sonic's tone. "Hmm?"
They both looked up.
Far above, the once-clear blue sky had begun to darken—slowly at first, then all at once. A massive black cloud rolled in over the horizon like a curtain being drawn across the sun. It wasn't moving like normal weather. It seeped—almost crawling, tendrils of inky shadow trailing behind it.
"...Funny," Sonic muttered, frowning. "I didn't expect any storms today."
Eggman crossed his arms, brow furrowing. "Great. Rain on my failures, why don't you."
Sonic didn't laugh. He just stared at the cloud, tension rising in his chest. "When it rains…" he said quietly, eyes narrowing, "…it pours."
A low wind picked up, but it wasn't natural. The air felt heavier. The light around them dimmed with unnatural speed, casting long shadows across the hills. The cheerful songs of the Flickies had fallen silent.
Something was wrong. Really wrong.
"…You feel that?" Sonic asked, his voice steady but wary. "The air... it feels heavy."
The ground beneath them gave a faint tremble, barely noticeable, but Sonic caught it.
"This ain't just a storm, Eggman."
Eggman adjusted his dark glasses, eyes narrowing behind them. "What're you talking about?"
Sonic turned to him, pointing a finger. "You behind this too?"
Eggman sputtered, throwing up his hands defensively. "What?! Controlling the weather now? Why would I even—actually…" He tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Huh. Controlling the atmosphere does sound like a genius idea. I'm adding that to the list. Thanks, Sonic."
Sonic blinked at him, unamused. "Not the time, Egghead."
Suddenly, a sound was heard. Like static or ink dripping on glass.
Sonic's ears twitched again. He turned sharply.
The grass just behind him began to warp, like black oil leaking through the fabric of reality. Inky tendrils slithered upward, swirling like smoke made of shadow. It pooled, twisted, and took shape.
Out from the ground rose a small figure—its body pitch black, its form barely solid. It had a round, spherical head with glowing yellow eyes. Two twisted antennae twitched atop its head, and three clawed fingers flexed on each hand. Its feet were rounded, almost cartoonish, but it moved and twitched with menace.
Sonic stepped back, his stance dropping into readiness. "What the—?!"
[Night of Fate – Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX begins playing]
Another one rose from the grass. Then two more.
Eggman backed up slowly, his bravado gone. "What are those things…?"
The zone fell eerily silent. No birds. No wind. Just the soft, wet sounds of darkness bubbling to the surface.
Sonic and Eggman looked around and realised they were surrounded.
Dozens of the creatures now formed a ring around them, rising from the inky ground like shadows given form. Their eyes blinked in unison.
They didn't speak. They didn't roar.
They just stared with their yellow eyes.
Sonic's expression hardened. "…Yeah," he muttered. "This ain't a storm."
The storm spread like a virus.
Across the mountains, cities, deserts, and skies… Mobius was drowning in darkness.
And the creatures?
They were everywhere.
Angel Island – Master Emerald Shrine
The skies above the floating island had turned pitch-black.
Atop the altar, Knuckles the Echidna stood firm before the glowing green mass of the Master Emerald, fists clenched and stance wide. He launched a heavy uppercut into a dark creature lunging towards him, the impact bursting it into black mist. Another came. Then another.
More rose, crawling up the steps of the ancient shrine.
Pow! Bam! Crack!
Knuckles fought like a living weapon, but even his strength had limits.
"This... isn't normal," he growled. "Where are they all COMING from?!"
He looked behind him. The Master Emerald flickered. A faint crack formed down its surface.
His purple eyes widened. "Oh no."
Westopolis
Shadow the Hedgehog moved like a storm of his own.
Glowing Chaos Spears pierced the creatures effortlessly. He vanished and reappeared with Chaos Control, roundhouse-kicking one into a nearby vehicle. He landed hard, sliding across the cracked pavement. He rose up, his Chaos powers crackling around him.
"Mobius is under attack," he muttered coldly. "This isn't just an Eggman stunt..."
He narrowed his red eyes as more of the creatures slithered out from below the burning overpass.
"Tch. Bring it on."
️ Station Square – Main City
Amy Rose, Vector, Espio, and Charmy fought side by side near the station, their backs to the flow of evacuating civilians.
Amy twirled her Piko-Piko Hammer in a sweeping arc, knocking back three creatures with one elegant strike. "This way, everyone! Into the station!" she called over her shoulder.
Espio flickered in and out of sight with ninja precision, disabling targets before they could get close.
"We're being overrun," Vector barked, punching one of the creatures square in the face. "Where's backup?!"
Charmy zipped overhead, trying to keep people calm. "The trains are coming! Just a little longer!"
But the skies weren't getting any brighter.
️ G.U.N. HQ – Command Centre
Red emergency lights bathed the control room in a harsh glow.
Commander Tower, standing tall with his green-and-brown heterochromia eyes locked on the largest monitor, clenched his fists.
Screens showed chaos—Spagonia, Apotos, Shamar, Empire City, and more. The dark creatures were everywhere.
Rouge the Bat leaned forward, scanning data. "This isn't just an invasion… it's like the planet's bleeding darkness."
Beside her, E-123 Omega primed his arm cannon, his red optics taking in everything around him. "TARGET ACQUISITION CONFIRMED. THREAT LEVEL: CATASTROPHIC."
The Commander nodded, his voice ringing out across the room with authority. "Activate Protocol Ebon Dawn. Begin immediate evacuation and planetary defence lockdown. Prioritise capital cities and research sites."
His voice didn't shake. But everyone felt the gravity in it.
Mystic Ruins – Tails' Workshop
Inside, Tails stared at a half-dozen monitors. All of them were filled with static, red alerts, or nightmare footage.
His gloved hands trembled slightly as he backed away from the console. "No way… it's spreading across every region. They're everywhere…"
Mystic Jungle – Jungle Lake
Big the Cat and Froggy sat at the edge of a now eerily still lake. The sky above had turned an inky black.
Big blinked, scratching his head with a fishing rod still in hand. "…Froggy? The sky's gone all spooky."
Froggy croaked nervously.
Big nodded sagely. "Yeah… definitely not a good day for fishin'."
Vanilla and Cream's House
Cream, Vanilla, and Cheese darted into their cosy home as outside filled with shadowy figures. Vanilla slammed the door shut and locked it tight, then yanking the curtains closed.
"Stay close, sweetie," Vanilla said gently, forcing a smile as she grabbed a rolling pin like a weapon.
Cheese floated beside Cream, letting out a determined, "Chao!"
Eggman's Base – Observation Room
Orbot and Cubot stared wide-eyed at the swirling darkness on every screen.
"…Oh no," Orbot muttered. "This looks very apocalyptic."
Cubot tilted his cube head. "Should we, uh… panic now or wait for the screaming?"
Orbot crossed his arms. "I believe we're well past panic and entering 'existential dread.'"
Cubot gasped dramatically. "Do we have, like… an umbrella mode?!"
Orbot sighed, shaking his head. "No, but if we did, I'd open it inside, just to spite you."
"Dang it..."
Abandoned Eggman Outpost
Metal Sonic stood at the edge of a shattered tower, unmoving… until a creature lunged.
In an instant, he vanished—reappearing behind the creature mid-slash.
SHHK-KRRT!
Black mist scattered into the wind.
Three more came. Metal spun with precision. His strikes were surgical and efficient. One creature was slammed into the ground. Another shattered on impact with his spinning arm blade.
He landed, eyes glowing crimson. "Target neutralised."
A pulsing black mist lingered in the air.
Metal Sonic extended a hand. His body briefly shimmered with digital glyphs as the aura was absorbed.
He paused, calculating the data around him, then spoke—monotone and cold: "Dark Creatures… data copied."
Crisis City – Future Timeline
In the distant future, darkness consumed a dead city.
Silver the Hedgehog knelt, clutching his head as psychic pulses surged through him.
"It's happening," he said, looking up at the sky with dread. "The timeline's in danger. It's time."
Kingdom of Soleanna
The streets were in chaos. Citizens screamed and scattered as shadows crept along the marble roads.
Inside the castle, the bells rang loud and fast.
Guards sprinted through the gilded halls, blades drawn. "Protect the Princess! Get her to safety!"
They burst into her quarters.
The room was empty.
The balcony doors stood open. Curtains fluttered in the wind.
Princess Elise was gone.
"What?!" one guard cried out in astonishment.
"Where is the Princess?!" another shouted, his voice full of alarm.
Back at Green Hill
Sonic and Eggman stood back-to-back, tension rising in the fading light. The air was thick with dread, the skies blackened above. The strange creatures surrounded them.
Eggman adjusted a lens on his glasses as he activated a scanner built into his eyewear. A faint blue light flickered over one of the creatures as it crept closer, and a stream of incomprehensible data began scrolling across his display.
"Fascinating…" he murmured. "These creatures… their biostructure isn't organic. They're formed from some kind of living shadow. Energy density is off the charts, but there's no physical origin point. No bones, no muscle… just condensed negative energy."
Sonic raised an eyebrow over his shoulder. "In English?"
"In layman's terms," Eggman replied, "they shouldn't exist."
Sonic turned fully toward the encroaching swarm. "Well, I'm not gonna stand around while they do."
He stepped forward, fists raised. "Time to send these creeps back to whatever shadow-cave they crawled out of."
Eggman backed up a step, gloved fingers dancing across his wrist console. "Well… good luck with that, Sonic."
With a sharp ping, the remains of the Egg Dragoon Mark II sparked to life. From its wreckage, Eggman's Egg Mobile rose with a mechanical hum, hovering loyally to his side.
Eggman jumped in without hesitation. "You're on your own, hedgehog!" he shouted, already ascending into the sky. "Tactical retreat!"
"Coward!"
"I prefer the term 'survivalist!'" Eggman called back, disappearing into the dark gloom.
Sonic turned back towards the creatures. There were dozens of them now. Maybe more. They moved forward, not running, not charging—just approaching.
Sonic planted his feet in the grass, the blue wind gathering around him. "Alright then…" he muttered, eyes narrowing. "Let's dance."
The first creature lunged. Sonic vanished in a blink.
A heartbeat later, a streak of blue cut through the darkness. The creature was launched into the air and exploded into a cloud of black mist.
Another came from the side.
WHAM!
Sonic spin dashed mid-air, ricocheting between three more enemies in rapid succession. He touched down only for a moment—then darted again, his form flickering with pure motion.
"You're gonna have to try harder than that!" he shouted, skidding sideways to avoid a claw swipe. "I've fought bigger and meaner! You guys are just bad shadows!"
More poured in. A sea of yellow eyes locked onto the hedgehog.
Sonic's body pulsed with electric blue light. "PHANTOM RUSH!" he shouted.
Dozens of blue afterimages flickered around Sonic, each one striking in perfect sync. The creatures couldn't keep up—slammed from every direction as Sonic's speed blurred the very fabric of reality.
Sonic launched himself upward, a vortex of speed trailing behind him, and came crashing down in a thunderous blue impact. The resulting shockwave sent a wave of creatures tumbling into the air like ragdolls before dissolving into shadow.
But they weren't done.
Not even close.
More emerged from the darkness—crawling out of the earth, slithering through the cracks, falling from the sky like living shadows.
Sonic flipped backwards. "Seriously?" he huffed. "Where are you all coming from?!"
He launched forward again, wall-running up the side of a hill, then springing off with a Homing Attack that chained across five targets in mid-air.
CRACK! WHOOSH! BOOM!
He struck like lightning.
The battle became a blur of speed, light, and chaos. Sonic dashed along the walls of falling rock, quick-stepping claw swipes, leaping from one enemy to the next in a rhythm only he could follow. Each move was fluid, almost effortless.
"Too slow!" he taunted, spin-kicking one creature into another. "You guys should really meet my friend Shadow! Pretty sure you'd all get along."
Another one lunged. Sonic vanished in a blur, reappearing behind it with a homing strike. The creature dissolved into mist before it even knew what hit it.
But then everything changed.
The chaos fell silent.
"Huh?" Sonic remarked in confusion.
Suddenly, a voice cut through the tension. It was low, cold, and infinite.
"Another world that has been connected."
Sonic turned, his green eyes narrowed. "Who said that?"
"Tied to the darkness."
A shape emerged from the shadows.
Tall. Hooded. Still.
"Okay, weird shadow guys are one thing. But creepy cloaked figures quoting horror novels? What's your deal?"
The figure raised its head just slightly, just enough to reveal burning amber eyes.
"Light begets shadow. Hope breeds despair. And all hearts… lead back to darkness."
A pulse erupted through the earth. Sonic stumbled. The dark sky cracked, splitting like fractured glass.
Suddenly, a swirling black hole tore open above them. The clouds twisted inward, dragged toward the rift. Light vanished.
Sonic's breath hitched as he watched the sky break apart, his green eyes taking in everything. "What the hell…?"
The ground cracked beneath his feet.
Tendrils of shadow burst from the earth. One whipped past him. Another snapped at his leg.
Sonic tried to run. But there was nowhere left.
The hill gave way. The air buckled.
"Whoa—!"
The ground vanished.
He was lifted into the air, weightless, spinning—caught in the spiralling gravity of the void. His cry echoed briefly, before the shadows surged in and everything went black.
Elsewhere Across Mobius
Angel Island – Master Emerald Shrine
Knuckles fought like a demon.
Creatures flooded the altar from all sides. His fists glowed red as he slammed one, two, five enemies down the temple stairs.
Behind him, the Master Emerald kept flickering wildly.
Then—CRACK.
A split. Then another. Then a burst of green lightning—then silence.
Knuckles turned. "No. No—no—!"
KRRRRRRSH!
The Master Emerald exploded, its shards sent flying. Knuckles roared as darkness surged around him, burying the shrine in black smoke.
Westopolis
Shadow unleashed Chaos Spears like thunderbolts. His form flickered with Chaos Control as he teleported across rooftops—striking, dodging, striking again.
Still, they came.
Floods of the creatures poured from underground tunnels and freeways. His red eyes flicked up. The sky was warping above him.
Shadow's air shoes landed hard as he raised a hand. "CHAOS—BLAST!"
A red pulse incinerated everything around him. He fell to one knee, breathing hard.
More shadows came.
"…Tch. So be it."
️ G.U.N. HQ – Command Centre
"Fall back! ALL UNITS—"
The feed cut.
Rouge stared at the static, then to the darkness slinking into the room.
Beside her, Omega fired into the dark—but even his blasts were swallowed before they struck.
"NO READINGS. DATA CORRUPTED."
Commander Tower looked to the ceiling above them. It was cracking.
He closed his eyes. "…Mobius is lost."
Mystic Ruins – Tails' Workshop
Tails' screens were flashing warning signs. The sound of alarms blared.
The fox pressed his communicator. "Sonic please respond!"
Nothing. Radio silence.
The screen in front of him buzzed with static.
Then it went black.
Crisis City – The Future
Silver now stood on a tilted skyscraper as buildings crumbled and cars spiralled upward into the sky like leaves.
A flash of memory. A flash of Sonic. A flash of a promise. A flash of blinding light and three figures from his past.
"I have to fix this!"
He vanished in a flash of green light just as the building beneath him disintegrated.
The Kingdom of Soleanna
Guards sprinted through the castle. "Princess Elise! Find her!"
The stained glass windows shattered inward as creatures crawled through the royal halls like a tide of black.
The bells tolled one last time then fell silent.
Station Square
The streets buckled. Buildings cracked.
Amy swung her hammer, but missed. The ground disappeared beneath her and she fell into a black chasm.
Espio reached for her and was pulled away by a dozen clawed hands.
Vector roared, trying to shield civilians. Charmy's cries echoed as he zipped overhead, trying to find an escape route.
Then came the wave.
A wall of pure darkness rolled in from the bay.
Everything went black.
Abandoned Eggman Outpost
Metal Sonic stood on a broken beam high above the empty facility.
He didn't move.
Dozens of creatures crawled towards him but stopped. They watched.
Then he spread his arms.
He allowed the darkness to come.
As tendrils wrapped around him, his red eyes flared once—and flickered out.
He was gone.
Mystic Jungle
Big the Cat looked up at the spinning sky. "...Froggy? I think it's bedtime."
He reached over and pulled his little friend close as the lake water rose… vertically… like it too was being pulled upward.
Then everything went dark.
Vanilla and Cream's House
Cream hugged Cheese tight.
Everything darkened.
Cheese hovered near the curtain and squeaked in horror.
The darkness was now inside.
Eggman's Base
Orbot and Cubot stood frozen in front of a thousand failing monitors.
"Uhhh…" Cubot whimpered. "I think I hear boss music."
Orbot didn't respond.
The walls crumbled around them.
"Well… I regret everything," Cubot added.
"Finally, something we agree on," Orbot muttered—just before they were swallowed in shadow.
The ground was gone. The trees, gone. The colour of the land… drained.
Only silence remained.
Sonic floated at the heart of the vortex. His arms drifted weightlessly at his sides, his quills gently rippling in the current of the dying world.
He was like a lone leaf caught in a spiral of oblivion.
Below him, the remains of Green Hill bent and shattered. Familiar loops curled in on themselves like coiled wire, cracking apart. Checkered cliffs snapped into broken fragments, then evaporated into black dust. The rivers bled upward.
Reality didn't fall. It peeled, like a painting left in the rain.
And in the centre of this entropy, like a wound at the heart of creation… he stood.
The figure. Cloaked in darkness that didn't just hide him, it obeyed him.
The edges of his brown robe whipped violently in the storm. And yet, he did not move. Amber eyes, glowing with inhuman insight, gazed up—watching Sonic as he ascended further into the darkness.
His voice came like wind through broken glass.
"This world returns to darkness."
He stepped forward as time slowed around him.
"What once was light… now fades. What once was life… now drowns. And still, the heart resists."
He raised a hand toward the drifting hedgehog.
"A key lies beyond the veil. A heart born of motion, forged in defiance. The one chosen… will walk the liminal spaces. Chased by shadow. Guided by fragments."
His hand slowly closed into a tight fist.
"But remember this—"
The world cracked open with a final pulse.
"Light begets shadow. Hope breeds despair. And all hearts… return to darkness."
Above, the vortex clenched shut. A single streak of blue was swallowed whole.
Sonic was gone.
The hooded man stood alone a moment longer, gazing into the nothingness.
Then he turned, stepping backwards into the shadows.
The darkness welcomed him home.
And just like that, Mobius was no more.
Notes:
Hey everyone! Thanks so much for stopping by.
This one’s been a long time coming — a full, remastered version of Kingdom Hearts: Blue Blur Edition is finally kicking off!
When I first started this crossover back in late 2023, it was mostly for fun. I mean, Sonic and Kingdom Hearts? Why not, right? And to my surprise, people really connected with it. The response on AO3 and FanFiction.net has been incredible, and it’s because of that support that I’ve been able to grow this wild little idea into something much bigger. From Chain of Generations ReMiX to KH II: Blue Blur Edition, the whole arc has taken on a life of its own. This remaster is part of that journey.
So why a remaster?:
Simple, I’ve learned a lot since I first wrote this back in 2023–2024. Not just from experimenting and writing nonstop, but also from reading the Kingdom Hearts novels. Their unique tone, pacing, and emotional flow really opened my eyes to how to balance action with heart, and they’ve definitely helped me rethink how I tell stories.
I’ve also gotten some great feedback from both AO3 and FF.net readers over time. Some of you pointed out ideas I could expand, or things that might work better in a future rewrite, and I’ve taken that to heart. So if you ever dropped a comment, review, or kudos, just know it mattered and helped shape what’s coming.
This remaster isn’t about rewriting history, it’s about refining it. Keeping the heart of the original while improving flow, tone, and character moments. Making it smoother and punchier.
What’s new in the remaster?:
Stronger links to ReMiX and KH II:BBE — more consistent lore and character arcs
Cleaned-up dialogue that feels more natural and true to each voice
Better pacing in battles and exploration
Adding in Jiminy Journal-style lore entries (like in KH II BBE)
KH novel-style formatting: tighter narration + cleaner action flow.
Quick heads-up about chapters!:
For the remaster, I’m keeping all scenes for each chapter in one place instead of splitting them into separate parts. That means chapters might be a bit longer than before — but I’ve found that, like in the Kingdom Hearts novels and other story-driven books, this format helps the pacing and flow feel more natural.
That said, if it ever feels like a chapter’s getting too long or would read better as separate parts (especially for major arc moments), I’m open to splitting things again. Just let me know what you prefer — I want the experience to be fun and easy to follow.
How’s it being released?
In waves — mostly by world. So, for example: first you’ll get the remastered Traverse Town arc, then Wonderland, and so on. Each drop will cover a full “world visit” from the original story, now tightened up and polished for this remaster.Expect a new arc every month or so (maybe two if the stars align), but fair warning — I’m also juggling Chain of Generations ReMiX and KH II: Blue Blur Edition, so pacing might vary depending on how those are going.
Basically: think of this as a rolling deluxe update, one world at a time.
So whether you’re new to this crossover universe or returning for another run, I hope this version brings the same heart — just with sharper writing, more emotion, and a few surprises along the way.
Thanks for reading, thanks for waiting, and thanks for supporting this chaotic little crossover all this time.
Now let’s jump back in and see what happens when the Blue Blur meets the Keyblade.
Please enjoy!
Chapter 3: Traverse Town
Summary:
Sonic awakens in a strange new town, lost and alone after the fall of Mobius. Meanwhile, Donald and Goofy begin their search for 'the Key' and a man named Leon, following their King's instructions. Sora arrives too, searching for his missing friends and answers. Three paths begin to cross in the city where lost hearts gather. All for one, and one for all!
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Act 1 - Traversing the Town:
One Week Before Mobius's Fall
Mystic Ruins, Tails's Workshop
[Mystic Ruins - Sonic Adventure starts playing]
The workshop buzzed with quiet energy.
Tails stood hunched over his control station, fingers flying across the keyboard with rapid, precise strokes. Warm light from the Mystic Ruins filtered in through the windows, casting long shafts across the room — but inside, all focus was on the glowing data streams crawling across the oversized monitor.
Sonic stood nearby, arms folded, watching the two-tailed genius with one brow raised.
"So... let me get this straight," he started, tilting his head. "The world's back together, the Dark Gaia mess is behind us, and you're still telling me there's something wrong?"
"Not wrong," Tails replied, still typing, "Just… weird. Like, worth-looking-into weird."
Sonic stepped closer, peering over Tails's shoulder. "You've been running diagnostics since the planet reformed?"
"Yup. After Dark Gaia, I kept tabs on the planet's energy grid, ley lines, magnetic axis... you know, the usual stuff."
"Totally. The usual stuff," Sonic said flatly, now leaning on the console. "I mean, who doesn't casually scan planetary lines in their downtime?"
Tails chuckled, shaking his head without stopping. "It's 532 words per minute, by the way."
"Wait, what?"
"You asked me earlier. My typing speed."
Sonic gave a low whistle as he straightened. "Dang, Tails. Have you ever thought about being my personal assistant? I could use someone to jot down all my heroic one-liners."
"I think I'll pass."
"Your loss."
With one final keystroke, Tails hit enter, and the screen changed. A star chart flickered into view—Mobius at the centre, surrounded by a web of constellations. But something was off. Red Xs dotted the map in random places, blinking softly.
Sonic's expression shifted. One hand resting on his hip, the other rubbing his chin in thought.
"Tails… is this a big, galactic game of tic-tac-toe, or are you losing connect-the-dots with the stars?"
Tails gave a dry look. "Those are stars. Or... were."
Sonic straightened slightly, his expression changing.
"Ok buddy, explain. What do you mean 'were'?"
Tails gestured to the display. "These red marks, they're stars that were there last week… and now they're gone."
"Gone?"
"Not collapsed. Not faded. Just… gone. Like someone erased them with a giant cosmic eraser." Tails pointed at the monitor. "I've triple-checked. Telescope logs, Spagonia's observatory, even the Night Babylon archives — same result."
"You think it's Eggman?"
"That was my first guess. But this doesn't feel like him."
"Yeah, Eggman's more of a 'gloat-while-launching-a-death-robot' kind of guy."
"Exactly!" Tails nodded. "This is... baffling."
"And you're gonna figure it out, right?"
"I have to. I can't just sit here while stars are disappearing."
Sonic looked from the screen to the window.
"Guess I picked a lousy time to plan a vacation, huh?"
"You're serious about that?" Tails asked, arching a brow.
Sonic shrugged. "Come on! After fighting a world-destroying god and getting sucked into a talking-sword storybook? I think I've earned a break."
"You know I wasn't really there in that storybook, right?"
"You weren't, but the blacksmith looked just like you. Kinda weird."
"I'm still gonna say that was a chili dog hallucination..."
"Hey! Those were stress-fuelled chili dogs, thank you very much."
Tails smiled, but the weight didn't leave his face. He turned back to the screen, gloved fingers hovering over the controls.
"So… where are you thinking of going?" he asked.
"Hmm... maybe Emerald Coast. Or Apotos. I really liked their food last time I was there."
Tails gave a short laugh. "That's not a vacation. That's you sprinting across the globe for takeout."
"Alright, alright. How about a city break in Soleanna? Palace tours by day, forest and beach by sunset. Bit of class, nature, and splash."
Tails arched a brow. "Splash? You can't swim, remember. You still need water wings to stay afloat."
"I told you—they're not water wings. They're fashion accessories!"
"Okay, okay..." Tails said with a small smile. But his eyes drifted back to the star map. "Just... don't take too long."
Sonic looked at him with a deep stare. "You okay?"
"Sorta. I mean... If Eggman really isn't behind this… we need to be ready for anything."
Sonic held out his gloved fist. "We always are."
Tails turned to see Sonic's closed fist. Tails smiled warmly and bumped it with his own.
The screen behind them flickered again. One more red X blinked onto the star map—quiet, subtle, unnoticed.
As Sonic turned to leave, he paused at the doorway. He looked back over his shoulder, voice soft but certain.
"Doesn't matter what happens, or how dark it gets. If you ever get lost out there, Tails… just listen for the wind. I'll be running towards you."
The fox smiled faintly, watching his friend leave. "You always do."
[Mystic Ruins - Sonic Adventure stops playing]
"Tails… I hope you're safe."
Present
The soft trickle and splashing of water echoed gently in the darkness.
Sonic's eyes flickered open. His vision swam with static shapes—white, black, flickering in and out like ghosts. His whole body ached, and the back of his head throbbed like he'd taken a hit from one of Eggman's wrecking balls.
He tried to move, but slumped back against cold stone.
Two blurry figures stood in front of him. They were four-legged, speckled. One with a red collar, the other with blue.
"…Tails?" Sonic murmured, half dazed. "…Did we rescue some cows or something…?"
"Bark."
"Bark! Bark!"
The barking jolted him fully awake.
Sonic flinched, eyes snapping wide as the haze began to lift. He wasn't in Green Hill. And he definitely wasn't dreaming.
He was sitting beside a softly glowing fountain, nestled beneath a golden archway. The cobblestone plaza around him was dimly lit by gas lamps, their flickering lights casting long shadows against blue brick walls. Crimson banners lined the perimeter, stitched with symbols he didn't recognise.
And staring at him with big, expressive eyes were two Dalmatians.
The one with the red collar let out a soft huff. The other, wearing a blue collar, tilted her head and whined softly, nudging Sonic's red-and-white shoe.
"Well," Sonic said, sitting up straighter and rubbing his eyes. "Either I hit my head harder than I thought… or the dogs are trying to tell me something."
The pair exchanged a glance and then, without warning, turned and padded off towards a narrow alley, tails flicking behind them.
"…Wait, seriously?"
They paused briefly at the alley's edge, looking back expectantly.
Then they turned and vanished into the shadows.
Sonic slowly rose to his feet, swaying slightly before finding his balance. His gloved hand brushed the edge of the fountain as he steadied himself. No Eggman. No friends. No sign of those freaky shadow monsters. Just an eerie silence that stretched on like a bad dream.
"Man… where the heck am I?" he muttered, giving a slight shrug, one hand resting on his hip.
His eyes scanned the unfamiliar streets again, slower this time.
Green Hills. Gone.
His home. No more.
Mobius… swept away by the darkness.
And his friends…
His hands slowly fell to his sides, fingers curling into tight fists.
The memories hit all at once. The shadowy creatures. The sky breaking. That cloaked figure.
It wasn't just destruction. There was something else, something deeper.
Sonic gritted his teeth. The usual cocky attitude faded, replaced by a quiet storm building behind his green eyes. How would anyone feel, knowing their entire world might've been wiped off the map? That their friends could be scattered, lost, or worse?
But no matter how hard the thoughts pulled him down, something inside refused to let go.
No. He couldn't give in now.
The hedgehog took a deep breath, held it, then slowly let it out.
His gaze drifted towards the alley—the same one the Dalmatians had disappeared down. Something about it called to him.
"Maybe…" he said quietly, straightening up. "Just maybe… I'm supposed to go that way."
Sonic rolled his shoulders and shook out his gloved hands. His quills rustled as he limbered up, crouching into that familiar ready-to-run stance.
"No more moping," he said under his breath. "Time to do what I do best, run like the wind and find some answers."
He glanced once more at the starry sky above, then faced the alley with fierce determination.
"This place… it's the first step to find the truth. And wherever it leads…"
He smirked, his confidence returning.
"They're not getting rid of me that easy."
And with that, like a bolt of blue lightning—Sonic shot off.
Traverse Rush – Stage Begins
(Music: Rooftop Run – Silent Dreams Remix)
Sonic's feet slammed against the cobblestones, the wind kicking up behind him as he sprinted down the narrow alley the dogs had led him towards.
The alley burst open into a wide plaza. Gas lamps swayed on their poles, casting long beams of golden light through the misty air. At the far side of the plaza, the massive fountain gurgled quietly under a golden archway. Murals of a spaghetti-sharing dog couple were carved into the stone.
Sonic didn't slow. He just accelerated forward.
"Gotta move. Gotta find answers. Gotta find anyone."
His red and white shoes screeched briefly against the slick stone as he took a hard corner at speed, bounding up the worn stone stairs in two quick strides.
And that's when he saw them.
It was the same creatures that had appeared at Green Hill.
"I've got several bones to pick with you creeps," he growled under his breath.
The nearest creature lunged, but Sonic was already on them.
A flash of blue light jumped into the air and Sonic's homing attack connected hard, blasting the creature into a burst of dark mist. Another two scuttled from the shadows.
Dropping back down to the ground, Sonic spin-dashed without slowing, leaving a rolling blur that slammed into the monsters and sent them scattering like leaves in a storm.
The pathway ahead split into two levels—a set of broken balconies above, and a collapsed stairwell below leading to a narrow canal.
Sonic grinned. "Time for some vertical fun."
With a spring-loaded jump off the nearest stair rail, he vaulted onto a broken balcony. Loose shingles slid underfoot, but he kept his balance with an easy tilt of his weight.
Above him, banners flapped between rooftops, and thin rails stretched across crumbling awnings, glittering in the lamplight. "Man, this place's got some style."
Without hesitation, Sonic leapt, landing on another rail with a clang. The hedgehog began grinding at full speed along the rooftops.
The world opened up below him. Narrow alleyways twisted into cosy courtyards. Brick rooftops sloped steeply. Neon signs buzzed and blinked half-heartedly in the night.
A cluster of strange, armoured monsters appeared ahead. But these were different.
Taller. Bulkier. They wore twisted knight helmets and clawed gloves. Their glowing yellow eyes glared up at Sonic with dark malice.
Sonic cocked an eyebrow mid-grind. "That's new. You guys look like you lost a bet to a medieval cosplay group."
The monsters leapt into action, but Sonic boosted.
A burst of blue energy exploded from him like a sonic boom, blasting through the attackers and sending them spiralling into the streets below.
As he raced forward, Sonic rushed into a sloped canal. Water trickled along a narrow stone channel, and metal rails twisted across the flow like a forgotten playground.
"Hope the town folk don't mind if I freestyle a little."
He jumped onto the nearest rail and launched forward, weaving between glowing streetlights, dodging low-hanging signs, and leaping clean over the water gaps below.
Suddenly, the rail curved upwards into an arch above a flickering lamp-post, then spiralled down towards a rooftop ledge overlooking the gate to the next section of this world: the Second District.
Sonic vaulted off the end, spinning mid-air, and landed in a crouch atop the gate's ledge.
From up there, the new area loomed below. It was larger. Brighter. But cloaked in more lurking shadows.
The faint jingle of a bell from the district's Gizmo Shop drifted through the still air.
"Totally different vibe down there…" Sonic said with a slight frown.
He dropped from the ledge, landing just outside the large wooden gate. It creaked open under unseen force, revealing the city's second zone like a theatre stage pulling back its curtain.
As Sonic bolted into the new district, hotels and buildings towered overhead, their dark windows like hollow eyes. Dim neon signs buzzed weakly, struggling against the mist. Abandoned cafés and restaurants stretched out on either side. Chairs tipped over. Plates still set.
It was like the whole town had vanished mid-bite.
Sonic skidded to a stop for a moment, taking it in.
"Okay… this just officially got creepy," he muttered, flicking his gaze around warily. "Feels like I missed the world's worst dinner party."
He tightened his gloves. "And judging by the vibe… the uninvited guests are still hanging around."
Perched on rooftops. Twitching from the alleys. Moving across the empty streets—more of those same dark monsters were lurking.
Sonic's lips curled into a half-smirk, half-snarl.
"Man, I can't even get lost in peace."
The smaller creatures twitched, then pounced.
In a blur of motion, Sonic launched into a sprint, weaving dizzying patterns that made the creatures stumble and snarl in confusion. He attacked—striking one, two, three enemies in rapid-fire bursts of blue light.
The armoured monsters advanced. They moved in a V-formation, claws at the ready.
Sonic just smirked. "Fancy tactics won't save ya."
He darted between them, vaulting off a leaning lamp-post, spiralling high, and crashing down with a charged spin attack, sending the foes scattering like broken chess pieces.
A low bell tolled faintly from above. Sonic's ear twitched at the sound.
The Gizmo Shop stood ahead.
It was a tall mechanical building with huge bronze gears. Clock hands ticked madly. Small lifts shuttled back and forth across its frame. The bells rang from the rooftop—a melody warped by the night sky.
And crawling all over the place… those creatures.
"Figures," Sonic muttered.
He broke into another sprint, racing straight into the Gizmo Shop entrance.
Inside, conveyor belts creaked to life, sparking with arcs of electricity. Moving gears lined the walls. Bouncing platforms rotated lazily near the ceiling.
More dark monsters spilled out from the shadows.
Without hesitation, Sonic leapt onto the nearest conveyor belt, grinding along its spinning surface, using its speed to launch himself upwards.
He bounced between shifting platforms with rapid-fire acrobatics.
Jump. Dash. Bounce. Homing attack.
Each move clean. Instinctive. Like he was born for this mechanical playground.
The creatures leapt at him mid-air—but the hedgehog kicked one into a wall and spin-dashed another into a pile of broken gears.
Sonic landed atop the upper balcony, eyes locking onto a crumbling old hotel across the square. Its flickering neon sign clung to life with one last gasp.
Cracked windows. Doors barely hanging from their hinges. A weird smell of mildew and mystery wafted through the shattered balcony.
"Yeesh," Sonic winced. "That place would get zero rings on Mobi Advisor."
He skidded to a halt for a beat, pretending to read an invisible review on his glove.
"One star. Room service replaced by shadow monsters. No towels. Got attacked by a knight with claws for hands. Zero outta ten—would not come again."
He chuckled. Sometimes he had to laugh to break the tension rising inside him. "Guess I'll skip checking in."
He sprinted across the Gizmo Shop rooftop, boosted into the air, and landed—skidding down the slanted hotel roof like it was made for speed.
The armoured creatures burst from the windows beside him.
Sonic slid under a collapsing sign, vaulted over a broken awning, and drop-kicked a Soldier clean off the rooftop without missing a beat.
A narrow alleyway appeared at the bottom. Old drainage pipes lined the walls. The faint sound of trickling water echoed below.
Twisting mid-air, Sonic landed on a drainpipe—grinding along its rusted surface like a rail. Sparks kicked up behind him as he twisted and spun down towards the exit.
Ahead, the wide iron-banded gates to the First District stood tall.
And just beyond it—a golden light shimmered.
The Goal Ring spun faintly. An ethereal portal of hope.
A group of creatures scrambled in the narrow street, blocking his way.
But it was too late.
Sonic charged a boost, energy crackling along his form. "Eat my dust!"
KRAK-BOOM!
He erupted forwards in a blur of blue light, vaporising the creatures like smoke in a hurricane.
The massive First District doors swung wide open.
And the Blue Blur blasted through the Goal Ring at full speed, a swirling blue vortex trailing behind him.
He skidded to a halt in the centre of a cosy plaza, bathed in soft lamplight.
It looked peaceful. Safe.
At least for now.
[Results Theme - Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: S
"Sweet!" Sonic exclaimed, fists clenching with excitement.
Without hesitation, he crouched low, fists tight at his sides, quills trembling with barely contained energy. In one fluid motion, Sonic launched into a backflip, landing effortlessly on one hand in a perfect one-arm handstand. He spun a full 360 degrees, momentum building, then pushed off high into the air in a spiralling flip.
Landing in a tight ball, he bounced once off the cobblestones like a living pinball, unfolding smoothly back onto his feet.
He struck his final pose sideways to the plaza—one hand confidently jabbing a thumb at himself, the other resting casually on his hip. His trademark cocky smirk was in full force, green eyes gleaming under the lamplight.
"Still got it," he said confidently. "Even in a place like this."
[Traverse Town – Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX begins playing]
This part of the world felt different.
Even Sonic noticed it. There was a gentleness to the air, a calm that wrapped around his senses like a soft blanket. The darkness in the corners no longer threatened to pounce. Whatever danger had followed him here... it hadn't made it this far. Not yet.
The lamps lining the plaza glowed warmly against brick and worn stone, casting soft halos of gold that shimmered across the square. Somewhere in the distance, music drifted faintly on the wind—simple, soothing. A light breeze carried the scent of bread and something sweet.
Sonic stepped forward slowly, taking it in.
Tables were still set outside a cosy café, untouched. Lanterns flickered gently overhead. Two round planters stood sentinel on either side of the plaza, casting golden circles of light across the cobbles.
Then he saw them.
People.
Scattered here and there, quiet, lingering. Not shadows. Not monsters.
Just townsfolk.
Sonic hesitated. His foot paused mid-step. Then he shrugged with a faint smirk. "Well... when in weird dream-towns…"
He made his way toward the woman near the café. When their eyes met, hers were kind—but cautious.
["Press X to Talk" appeared faintly beside her.]
"New face, huh? Everyone ends up here one way or another. Lost something, didn't you?"
Sonic's smirk faltered.
She gestured towards a stairway at the far end of the district. "You should talk to the guy in the Accessory Shop. Gruff old thing, but he helps."
Sonic gave a light salute with two fingers. "Thanks, lady."
He continued on, spotting a boy standing by a red post-box. The kid had his arms folded, head tilted back to stare at the stars—what stars remained.
Sonic wandered over.
["Press X to Talk"]
The boy didn't look down at first. He spoke softly, almost to himself.
"My dad said the stars keep disappearing. Like they're scared of something."
He turned, eyes wide and serious. "I hope you're not scared too."
Sonic met his gaze, voice quiet but steady. "Not my style, kid. But... I need answers."
The boy nodded faintly and looked back up.
Moving on, Sonic turned toward the plaza's centre. Another child darted out from behind a planter and nearly collided with him.
["Press X to Talk"]
The kid stumbled to a stop, eyes wide. "Whoa! You're fast, huh? You look like someone from a comic book! Or a video game!"
He spun in place, arms out like airplane wings.
"Zoom! Pow! You should totally jump off the rooftops sometime. That's what heroes do—sweet superhero landings!"
Sonic chuckled. "I'll keep it in mind."
Even here, kids still dreamed in colour and without fear.
Now at the centre of the plaza, Sonic turned his gaze towards the path the woman had mentioned earlier. Across the way, a stairway rose to an upper level lit by more glowing signs. One stood taller than the rest—ACCESSORIES, spelled out in flickering gold beneath a fleur-de-lis.
He stared up at it.
"Someone's gotta know something in there," he muttered.
His steps echoed as he climbed the stairs, soft against the polished stone. Gas lamps lined the way, their glow casting the ground in gentle hues like rain had just passed.
Behind him, the plaza remained still.
Sonic didn't trust peace anymore. Not after what happened to Mobius.
But the hedgehog couldn't give up. His friends and his missing world needed him.
As he reached the shop, he pressed both gloved hands against the double doors and pushed them open. They creaked faintly, like the air inside was waiting.
He stepped through.
[Where Is This – Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX starts playing]
Just then, at the far end of the district, new footsteps stirred the stillness. They were soft at first, then grew louder as three figures stepped through the large wooden gate.
They weren't from this world, but from a kingdom not far away.
Striding into the cobbled square were none other than Disney Castle's finest: Donald Duck, Goofy, and the ever-loyal Pluto.
Donald's blue mage's jacket shimmering faintly beneath the lamplight. Gold bangles clinked with each step. Goofy followed beside him, tall and cheerful as ever in his combat vest and green turtleneck, walking with a spring in his step. And leading the charge, tail wagging and nose to the ground, was Pluto. The loyal dog was sniffing the cobblestones like they held clues.
Suddenly, Goofy's eyes lifted to the stars above and he paused. "Hey…" he murmured, pointing upwards. "Look, a star's goin' out."
Donald stopped beside him, looking up at the sky with wide eyes. A bright star blinked once, then vanished completely.
"Come on. Let's hurry," Donald said, his voice sharp with urgency.
Goofy nodded, and the group moved forward through the quiet district. Pluto bolted up the steps ahead of them, heading straight towards the Accessory Shop.
As they walked, Donald folded his arms, his brow furrowed in thought. "Where's that key?" he muttered impatiently.
"Maybe we oughta go find that Leon," Goofy offered, glancing down at his irritated friend.
But before they could decide, Pluto suddenly darted left, sniffing wildly at the alley near the Item Shop. Donald veered off to the right, eager to continue the search.
Goofy looked between them, trying to keep the group somewhat together. "Uh, Donald, ya know, I betcha that—"
"Aw, what do you know, ya big palooka?" Donald huffed, waving a hand dismissively as he marched off.
Goofy shrugged with a chuckle. "What do I know?"
He lingered a moment before calling after their runaway companion. "C'mon, Pluto!"
But Pluto had already vanished around the alley corner.
And there, slumped against a wall, was a figure.
A boy, caught somewhere between sleep and memory. Spiky brown hair. Oversized yellow shoes. A black-and-red outfit.
This, dear reader, was indeed Sora.
He didn't know it yet, but he was about to become one of the most important players in this story.
Pluto padded up gently, tail wagging, and gave Sora a friendly lick on the face.
Sora stirred, his eyes fluttering open. "What a dream…" he mumbled groggily.
But the moment Pluto barked and nudged him with both front paws, reality came crashing in on the misplaced boy.
"This isn't a dream!" Sora yelped, sitting up in a panic.
He stared wide-eyed at Pluto, who offered a cheerful tail wag in reply.
Sora slowly stood, trying to make sense of the strange place around him. Crates were stacked against the wall. Old notices were posted. Dim light spilled in from the alley mouth.
"Where am I?"
He glanced down at Pluto, bending over with his hands on his knees. "Do you know where we are?"
Pluto's ears perked suddenly. Someone was calling.
With a bark, the dog turned and sprinted away.
"Hey! Wait!" Sora called, standing up straight.
The boy ran after him, urgency in every step.
As he turned the corner, the alley opened into a large plaza glowing softly beneath warm lanterns. Brick buildings framed the edges. Signs for items, shops, and accessories blinked faintly in the distance.
Sora stepped forward slowly, moving towards the top of the stairs for a better view. "This is totally weird," he muttered, eyes wide in disbelief. "I'm in another world!"
He turned and noticed the Item Shop behind him. After one look at the sign, he scratched his head and sighed. "I need to know more about this place… I wonder if Riku and Kairi are here…"
Still dazed, but with purpose in his step, Sora walked towards the shop and opened the door.
Would he find answers?
Not quite yet, dear reader… but the gears of fate were slowly in motion.
[Where Is This stops playing]
[Traverse Town Theme – Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX starts playing again]
"…So let me get this straight," the man behind the counter said, his voice thick with gravel and disbelief. "You're not a blue rat. You're a hedgehog. With red and white shoes that could outrun a Chocobo?"
Sonic leaned forward against the green counter between them. "I'm not sure what a Chocobo is… but I'm the fastest thing alive. Name's Sonic. And I'm not here for fashion critiques."
The man didn't flinch. He chewed his long toothpick a little harder, eyes narrowing like he was trying to solve a particularly annoying riddle.
He looked like a guy built to survive explosions. Broad-shouldered. Arms thick with old muscle. A pale shirt clung to a chest that had clearly seen bar fights and broken engines. A wide orange belt cinched his waist like a restraint harness. Blue cargo trousers, grey socks, heavy black boots. His wild, spiked hair held a pair of dusty goggles like they were part of his anatomy. A rope-tied pendant swayed at his chest as he studied Sonic, but it was his stare that did most of the talking—it said he'd seen too much and learned never to flinch.
"Right," the man muttered. "Fast blue hedgehog, wakes up in the Third District after some world-ending chaos. Lookin' for his pals. Happens more often than you'd think."
Sonic gave a half-shrug. "Yeah, I know how it sounds. But I watched my home get swallowed by shadows. My friends… they could be scattered across who-knows-where."
The man grunted, the barest trace of sympathy flickering in his voice. "Yeah. Sounds about right…"
Sonic could tell this guy had been through something similar. But he didn't press. "You got a name, tough guy?"
"Cid. Cid Highwind," he said, jerking a thumb towards his chest. "Owner of this store, expert mechanic, occasional lifesaver. Welcome to Traverse Town—refuge for the lost and unlucky."
Sonic tilted his head slightly. "Figures."
"Afraid so, hedgehog."
Cid moved to a nearby shelf. He retrieved a battered metal mug that looked like it had survived an air raid and poured something hot and brown from a dented kettle. It hissed faintly, smelling like equal parts caffeine and carburettor.
"I didn't ask for your life story," he added, taking a sip. "But I get it. Worlds vanish. Shadows crawl outta nowhere. And then boom—you wake up here, tryin' to make sense of a mess no one asked for."
"You're not wrong there," Sonic muttered, rubbing the back of his head.
"You're lucky to be alive, Blue."
"...So what now?"
Cid set the mug down and nodded towards the staircase tucked into the corner of the shop. "There's someone upstairs you oughta meet. Keeps to himself. Broody as a thundercloud. But if anyone's got answers, it's him."
Sonic followed the motion with a glance, then looked back as Cid walked around the counter towards the stairs. His boots thudded against the wooden floor.
"Let me guess. Wears a leather jacket? Wields a fancy looking sword? Has a tragic backstory?"
Cid let out a dry laugh and stepped onto the bottom step. "He checks two and a half of those boxes."
"Close enough," Sonic smirked, snapping his fingers.
Cid climbed a few creaky steps, then glanced back. "Oh—and one more thing."
"Yeah?"
"You break anything up there, hedgehog? You're payin' for it."
Sonic's smirk widened, the spark of confidence returning to his green eyes. "Guess I better not touch anything, then."
"Smart choice."
The wooden stairs creaked beneath their weight as Cid led Sonic to the upper floor of the shop. It wasn't much of a showroom—more like a makeshift workshop barely passing as organised. Blueprints were tacked to the walls at crooked angles. Stacks of strange, multicoloured blocks shimmered faintly from dusty shelves and across a cluttered workbench. A half-finished engine sat mid-disassembly, gears and parts strewn about in mechanical chaos.
"Looks like Tails's place after a heavy brainstorming session," Sonic muttered, eyeing the mess.
Cid just grunted. "It's my workspace. Don't touch anything."
"Got it."
Near the far wall, a tall figure leaned against a support beam—arms crossed, one boot braced behind him. His eyes were closed, but it was clear he wasn't asleep. He was listening. Watching. Or, as Sonic liked to call it… brooding.
He wore a cropped black jacket with short sleeves, each shoulder stitched with a red wing pattern. A silver chain hung down over a white undershirt. Thick belts criss-crossed black trousers, some snug, others hanging loose at the hips and thighs like stitched-in scars. Fingerless gloves, heavy boots, and three brown bands wrapped around his forearm gave him the air of someone who didn't just fight—he endured.
Strands of brown hair fell around his serious, youthful face, half-concealing a scar that cut diagonally across the bridge of his nose. But it was his eyes—sharp, unreadable, and an icy blue—that made Sonic slow down.
Cid nodded toward the figure. "Leon. Got someone here you might wanna talk to."
Leon opened his eyes and looked down at Sonic. "So you're the one."
Sonic raised an eyebrow. "The one what?"
"The new arrival running around town. Not one of the King's followers though. You're Mobian, right?"
"Wait—how do you know that?"
"I've seen your kind before," Leon replied, stepping away from the beam. "Not many. But enough."
"You could've told me," Cid added with a look.
"You just met him, Cid" Leon said flatly.
Sonic scratched the side of his head. "Okay, cool. So you're the guy who knows things. Mind explaining what's going on? I've been chased by shadow creeps, dumped in a weird town with Dalmatians handing out side quests, and now I'm being called a 'King's follower' like this is some kind of bedtime story."
"You're not far off," Leon replied calmly.
"Wait—seriously?"
Cid moved to the bench and tinkered with the engine. "Kid, your world got swallowed by the Heartless. Welcome to the club."
"Heartless?" Sonic echoed. "You mean those shadowy jerks with the grabby claws have a name?"
Leon nodded. "They're drawn to strong hearts. Worlds without protection fall fast."
"And yours fell too, I'm guessing?" Sonic asked.
"Yeah. Nine years ago," Leon answered. "We've been here since. Refugees in a town built from broken worlds."
Sonic fell quiet. The words hit harder than he'd expected.
The hedgehog exhaled slowly, his gloved hands curling into fists. "...Alright then," he murmured, steadying his breath. "Let's find some answers."
Leon arched a brow. "Hmm?"
Sonic nodded toward the window. "This place..."
"Traverse Town," Leon replied.
"Right. So, what is it? A last-chance safe zone for people whose worlds got erased?"
"More or less."
"Huh. Cosy."
"Yup," Cid muttered. "It's got lights, plumbing, decent coffee... and a high threat level on Thursdays."
"Comforting," Sonic deadpanned. He gestured to the cluttered table. "So, what's with the colourful bricks? You guys building castles while you wait for Thursday to roll around?"
"Smart-arse," Cid grumbled.
"Hey, just curious!" Sonic shrugged. "You've been stuck here nearly a decade. I figured you'd have built a Death Egg by now or something."
"Death Egg?" Cid side-eyed him.
"Long story."
Leon nodded toward the wall. "Those are Gummi Blocks. They let us travel between worlds. If you've got a ship, or know someone who can build one..."
Sonic stared at the glowing blocks. "So, not Legos or candy. Got it. Spaceships made of glowing cubes."
"Harder than they look," Cid added, lifting one. "I've tried for years to get one running past two worlds. They still act up."
"Tails would love this stuff."
"Tails?" Leon asked.
"My best friend and real tech genius. He'd have a field day. I could see him building something pretty cool with those blocks and taking on Eggman with it."
Leon narrowed his eyes slightly. "This Eggman. Your world's big bad, I'm guessing?"
"Yeah. Big 'tache, bigger ego. Bald. Builds robots. Talks too much," Sonic said with a shrug. "But even he couldn't do what I saw. This was something darker. Something worse."
Leon nodded. "That tracks."
"So what now?" Sonic asked. "Do I keep playing detective, or is there a plan?"
"The Keyblade," Leon said flatly.
Sonic tilted his head. "The what now?"
"The Keyblade. It can fight the darkness. Protect the worlds. Fix what's broken."
"Sounds useful. So, where do I get one?"
Cid cut in with a grunt. "Doesn't work like that. The Keyblade chooses its wielder."
Sonic let out a breath. "Of course it does. Why wouldn't the fate of the universe depend on a picky sword?"
Leon smirked—just faintly. "The legend says a Keybearer will come to this world. Soon."
"Well, when they show up, great. Until then, I'm not sitting on my hands. My friends are out there. I'm gonna find them."
Leon gave a slow nod. "Then you'll fit in just fine."
A distant shout echoed from below. Sharp and urgent.
All three froze.
Another bang rang out from the district.
"…That your Thursday threat?" Sonic asked, glancing at them both.
Leon turned and strode towards the open window.
"Wait... You think it's your Keyblade guy?" Sonic called after him.
Cid barked a dry laugh, grabbing a wrench. "Speak of the devil..."
Leon vaulted through the window and disappeared with a quiet thud.
Sonic leaned out grinning. "Not bad. Guy's got flair."
Cid didn't look up. "Stairs exist, y'know."
"Yeah, but come on... that was way cooler."
And then—he was gone.
Blue light flashed as the hedgehog launched through the window after Leon.
Cid was alone. He looked at the window. Then at his scattered tools. Then back at the engine.
He sighed, long and loud.
"Damn hedgehogs. Damn Leon. Damn gravity."
A pause.
"…And I'm the one stuck cleaning the damn shop?!"
He yanked his goggles down and got back to work.
End of Act 1
Act 2 - The Key:
Sonic skidded out of the alley, he came to a halt just outside the Accessory Shop's front doors.
"Now… let's see that Keyblade," came Leon's voice—low, calm, and heavy with intent.
Sonic's ears twitched at the sound. He turned, eyes locking on Leon as the man stepped forward, glove-clad hand extended. His gaze was unwavering, fixed on the figure across from him.
Sonic's green eyes widened at who Leon was approaching. "No way..."
It was a kid. A teenager—maybe fourteen at most. Spiky brown hair. Oversized yellow shoes.
Yes, dear reader, our paths have crossed. It was indeed Sora—and in his hands, he the Keyblade.
A silver, key-shaped blade nearly four feet long. Its golden guard and blue grip framed a gleaming steel shaft, ending in a crown-shaped set of teeth. A silver chain dangled from the hilt, its end adorned with a small charm shaped like a mouse's head. The blade shimmered faintly beneath the district's warm lamplight, humming with quiet, mysterious power.
"It's just a kid..." Sonic said quietly to himself, stepping closer in disbelief.
Leon advanced with purpose, each bootstep echoing over the cobblestones. "Hand it over."
Sora took a shaky step back, his hands tightening around the Keyblade's grip. "W-What? No! There's no way you're getting this!"
"Yo, Leon!" Sonic called, jogging up beside him. "Seriously? He's just a kid!"
Leon stopped, his eyes flicking briefly to Sonic. "He's the one it chose."
"He barely knows which end of that thing swings!" Sonic gestured toward Sora with a scowl.
"Hey!" Sora shouted. "I can hear you, ya know!"
"No disrespect kid..."
Leon didn't flinch. His voice dropped like steel. "If we don't test him… the darkness will."
With a smooth motion, Leon drew his Gunblade. The iconic weapon—half-sword, half-revolver—gleamed under the gaslight. Its polished steel surface flashed like moonlight, the revolver barrel embedded in the hilt casting faint shadows across his arm.
Across from them, Sora gritted his teeth and dropped into a crouch, raising the Keyblade defensively. The weapon wavered slightly in his grip, but his stance was serious.
He wasn't backing down.
Sonic raised a gloved hand, stepping forward. "Whoa, whoa, hold on—"
But it was too late.
Leon pointed his blade and cast a spell. "FIRE!"
"FIRE?!" Sonic repeated in surprise, jumping back slightly.
A blazing orb burst from the tip of the Gunblade, a streak of flame screaming across the air.
Sora dove just in time as the fireball exploded behind him. He rolled to his feet, breathing hard, eyes darting between Leon and Sonic.
"You too, blue guy?!" he snapped, staring daggers at the hedgehog. "Are you with him?!"
Sonic froze for a heartbeat, caught between instinct and empathy. "Look, I'm not here to fight—"
But Sora didn't wait.
He charged, Keyblade raised.
Sonic exhaled sharply through his nose. A flicker of reluctance crossed his face—but only for a second. His body shifted low into a runner's stance, a faint blue aura crackling at his heels.
Then he grinned. "Alright, kid. Let's dance."
Sora
Battle Music: "Night of Fate" begins playing
The Keyblade came down hard, a golden arc slicing through the night air.
Sonic sidestepped in a blur, shoes screeching against the plaza's stonework as the weapon missed him by inches.
CLANG.
"Dang, you're quick for a beginner," Sonic muttered, half-impressed.
Sora didn't answer. He pivoted and swung again, wide and desperate.
Nearby, Leon was already moving.
From behind Sonic, the Gunblade flashed into the fray. Leon struck with a quick, sharp arc toward Sora's side—but the boy twisted just in time, blocking the blow with the flat of the Keyblade. The impact jolted through his arms, staggering him.
"Back off!" Sora shouted.
He turned the Keyblade on Leon next, charging forward. Leon parried, the sound of steel meeting steel ringing through the district. The veteran narrowed his eyes and pushed back hard, sending Sora skidding.
But the boy didn't stop. He pivoted again—this time, lunging straight at Sonic.
Sonic tensed, preparing himself. "Kid's got heart. Shame it's outpacing his stamina."
This time, though, he didn't dodge.
Crouching low, Sonic swept Sora's legs with a fast spin-roll, knocking the teen into the air briefly before he hit the ground with a thud. The Keyblade clattered away across the cobblestones.
Sora gasped, rolling onto his stomach. He dragged himself towards the blade.
In a flash of light, the Keyblade snapped back into his hand.
"I'm not giving it to you!" he yelled jumping back up. "I'm gonna find my friends!"
Sonic stood motionless, his eyes locking with Sora's. "…I get it, okay? You're scared. You've lost people. So have I."
"Then stay out of my way!" Sora shouted.
He lunged once more wildly, his form sloppier.
Sonic dashed forward and caught the swing.
WHAM.
The Keyblade met his forearm. He gritted his teeth as pain shot through him, then pushed Sora backward with his free hand.
"Kid, listen to me! You're not thinking straight!"
Sora staggered. His breath hitched. His knees buckled slightly, and the Keyblade wobbled in his grip.
Leon stepped forward, Gunblade raised, eyes cold and measured. "He's too reckless. The Keyblade chose him, but he's still just a kid."
"Leon—" Sonic warned, throwing out a hand. "Wait a second!"
But it was already over.
FWOOOSH.
A flash of flame burst from Leon's blade, the Fire spell rocketing toward its target.
BOOM.
It struck Sora square in the chest. He hit the ground hard, skidding across the ground.
Sora groaned. He tried to move, then went still.
His chest rose and fell. His limbs were slack. Whatever fight he had left was gone.
Sonic rounded on Leon, green eyes blazing. "Leon!" he barked. "He was done! I had it handled!"
Leon slowly lowered his weapon, face unreadable. "We needed to be sure. Cornered people make mistakes. That's when they're most dangerous."
Sonic looked at Leon like he was trying to process five layers of nonsense at once.
Finally, he muttered under his breath, "You serious right now, pal?"
Leon didn't answer.
But that silence said more than words.
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: S
Leon turned away, spinning the Gunblade once before resting it over his shoulder.
"…S-Rank, huh?" Sonic muttered. "Felt more like a C in moral decisions… but what do I know."
He gave a half-hearted shrug, voice flat. "Can't win 'em all."
Sonic's gaze lingered on the unconscious Keyblade wielder, his green eyes softening with something unspoken.
There was something about the kid. He'd fought with everything he had. That kind of heart didn't come from nowhere.
Leon stepped up beside him, Gunblade resting casually on his shoulder. His stance was composed, but his tone wasn't without edge.
"Rather a hard hit, don't you think?" Sonic asked, not looking at him.
"That was going easy."
Sonic turned slightly, lifting a brow. "Fireball to the chest?"
Leon met his gaze. "If I hadn't, he might've pushed harder. Hurt himself. Or someone else."
Sonic sighed and crouched beside Sora. The boy stirred faintly, still gripping the Keyblade even in unconsciousness.
"You sure you weren't trying to send a message?" Sonic muttered. "Because from where I'm standing, that kid's only threat was collapsing under the weight of it all."
"Still… it looks like things are worse than we thought," Leon said quietly. "A lot worse."
Sonic didn't argue.
He just slipped his arms beneath Sora's limp frame and lifted him with surprising gentleness. The Keyblade stayed in the boy's grip.
Sonic glanced at the weapon for a moment.
"We need answers. For me, for you… but especially for him. When he wakes up, he's gonna need more than a lecture and a reality check."
"…You're not like most people," Leon said simply, analysing the hedgehog.
"Comes with the quills," Sonic replied, but the smirk faded as quickly as it came. "So. Got a place in mind?"
Leon gave a single nod.
"Come on. I know somewhere safe where we can talk things over."
Meanwhile
Walking through the deserted streets of the Second District, Donald and Goofy continued their search for "the Key"—and for the Leon mentioned in the King's instructions.
"Ugh! Where are they?" Donald groaned, throwing up his hands in frustration. "We've been searching for ages!"
"Gawrsh, Donald," Goofy said, plodding along beside him. "Maybe we oughta take a breather?"
"Let's not lose hope, fellas," came a calm voice that made both of them stop mid-step. "We've followed the King's orders this far. Something tells me we're close to a breakthrough."
Perched suddenly on Goofy's shoulder, as if he'd always been there, Jiminy Cricket smoothed his coat and straightened his top hat. Goofy blinked in surprise while Donald looked up at their sharply dressed chronicler.
"You think so, Jiminy?" Goofy asked.
"Absolutely. Call it a gut feeling," Jiminy replied with confidence.
"You better be right…" Donald huffed.
Suddenly, a panicked voice rang out across the district.
"AHH! G-Get away from me!"
"That came from the square!" Jiminy shouted, bouncing up and down on Goofy's shoulder.
Donald already had his staff in hand. "Let's go!"
"Right behind ya, Donald!" Goofy called, raising his shield with a clank.
"Gosh, I'd better seek safety," Jiminy added, leaping into the crease of Goofy's hat as the duo bolted off.
They skidded into the square.
"Look! Over there!" Donald pointed with urgency.
Backed against a stone wall, eyes wide with panic, was an amber-furred fox with two tails.
He was surrounded by The Heartless.
"Hang tight!" Goofy called, stepping forward. "We'll get ya outta this!"
He charged first, shield slamming into the nearest Shadow Heartless with a booming impact.
Donald followed, staff raised. "FIRE!" he yelled, sending red-hot fireballs streaking across the square.
"Hit 'em hard, Donald!" Goofy cheered.
"Take that! And that!" Donald shouted, blasting another group into smoky wisps.
The Shadows fell quickly, smoke curling in their wake. Goofy followed up with a spinning bash, knocking the last few aside like bowling pins.
But then the Soldiers advanced.
Donald and Goofy didn't hesitate.
Goofy braced, then spun into a tornado, his shield crashing into the advancing Heartless again and again.
Donald cast without pause. "FIRE! FIRE!" he barked, flares bursting from his staff like fireworks.
The Soldiers staggered until they shattered into dark mist.
"That'll teach 'em!" Donald huffed, lowering his staff.
"I wonder what they were…" Goofy muttered, scratching his chin.
"Whatever they were," Jiminy said as he hopped out from Goofy's hat and onto his shoulder, "you handled them brilliantly. Good show, fellas."
Donald and Goofy turned their attention to the fox.
"You okay, little guy?" Goofy asked kindly.
"Whoa… you guys are incredible," the fox said, voice soft but grateful. "Thanks. I thought I was toast for sure."
"No problem!" Goofy grinned. "Always happy to help!"
"What's your name?" Donald asked.
"Miles Prower," the fox replied with a friendly smile. "But everyone calls me Tails."
"Oh, because of the two tails?" Jiminy noted, pointing at the swishing appendages.
"That's right," Tails nodded. "What about you guys?"
"Name's Donald Duck!" Donald said proudly, thumping his chest.
"I'm Goofy! Nice to meet ya, Mile—er, Tails!" Goofy laughed.
"And I'm Jiminy Cricket," the little cricket added, tipping his hat. "At your service, Tails."
"Glad to meet you all," Tails said warmly. But then his smile faded.
"What's wrong?" Donald asked, concern creeping in.
Tails looked down, his tails drooping slightly.
"My world… Mobius. It's… gone."
"Gone?" Donald echoed.
"What do you mean?" Goofy asked gently.
Tails hesitated. "I was in my workshop when everything got weird. Those shadowy things swarmed across everything. They… they swallowed it all."
Donald, Goofy, and Jiminy exchanged grim glances.
"Next thing I know," Tails continued, gesturing to the district, "I woke up here. Wherever here is."
"This is Traverse Town," Goofy said softly.
"Traverse Town…" Tails murmured, eyes narrowing in thought. "So, another world?"
"That's right," Donald confirmed.
Tails looked intrigued—but the concern didn't leave his face.
"I just hope my friends are okay. And the people back home…" His voice dropped. "What happened to them?"
Silence followed. No one had an answer.
Jiminy cleared his throat. "You're lucky to have made it here at all, Tails. But maybe, you didn't come alone."
Tails blinked. "What do you mean?"
Goofy offered a gentle smile. "Well, maybe your friends made it too. They could be out there lookin' for ya—just like we're lookin' for something special."
Tails perked up slightly. "Really? You think so?"
"Absolutely," Donald said.
"Thanks guys. But tell me, what is it you're looking for?" Tails mused.
"We're hunting for a Key!" Goofy replied cheerfully.
"Goofy!" Donald barked, elbowing him. "World Order! We're not supposed to talk about that!"
"Gawrsh—what'd I say?"
Jiminy stepped in quickly. "Let's just say… it's important, Tails. We're under special orders."
Tails tapped his chin. "A Key, huh…?" His mind was clearly turning over new gears. "Sounds like there's more going on than you're telling me."
Before they could respond, a warm voice drifted in from nearby.
"Excuse me… but did the King send you?"
The four turned.
Standing beneath a lamppost's gentle glow was a woman in a long pink dress with a magenta lining, a soft lilac belt tied in a bow, and boots that tapped gently as she approached. Her chestnut hair was braided down her back, with curled strands framing her kind, graceful face.
Donald stepped forward. "Who are you?"
"My name is Aerith," she replied, bowing her head slightly. "I've been waiting… hoping someone would come. You three—" she glanced to Donald, Goofy, and Jiminy—"you were sent by the King, weren't you?"
Goofy scratched his head. "Uh-huh. We were told to find a fella named Leon."
"Wait… you were sent by royalty?" Tails asked, looking between them.
Donald nodded proudly. "The King gave us a mission, and we're not gonna let him down!"
Tails blinked. "So you're not from here either."
He turned to Aerith. "And you? You knew they were coming?"
Aerith's smile was calm. "Let's just say I know more than I can explain out here."
She glanced around at the darkened buildings and empty windows.
"We shouldn't talk here. It's not safe. Come with me. I'll explain everything."
Donald, Goofy, and Jiminy nodded in unison.
Tails looked at them all. Something told him this woman wasn't guessing, she knew.
"Alright. I'm with you guys," said Tails.
Aerith smiled again, turning gracefully.
"Follow me."
Elsewhere
"Come on, lazy bum. Wake up."
Sora stirred with a groggy groan, blinking as consciousness slowly returned. He found himself upright on a soft bed, legs loosely crossed, head still buzzing from the chaos earlier.
As his vision cleared, his gaze landed on the figure in front of him.
A girl stood there, hands on her hips, smiling gently. Dark red hair framed her face, blue eyes soft with concern. She wore a white sleeveless top layered over black, a purple skirt with matching bike shorts, and slip-ons with purple caps. A blue belt, black choker, yellow wristband, and colourful bracelets completed the look—exactly how he remembered.
"You okay?" she asked, leaning in.
Sora blinked, trying to steady his thoughts. "I… I think so."
"Those creatures that attacked you? They're after the Keyblade," she said, her tone growing serious. "But what they really want… is your heart. Because you wield it."
"Kairi… I'm so glad you're okay."
The girl tilted her head, confused. "Kairi?" she repeated. "Who's that?"
And just like that—she shimmered and vanished like a mirage.
In her place stood someone completely different.
"I'm the great ninja Yuffie!" she declared cheerfully, flashing a grin.
Sora stared, still processing it all. Yuffie had short black hair and wore a metal headband with bouncing green tassels. A yellow scarf looped around her neck, a green tube top strapped with blue belts, tan shorts, a loose blue belt, long white socks, and orange fingerless gloves over mesh sleeves.
She leaned over casually, calling to the far side of the room. "I think you overdid it, Squall."
"It's Leon," came the calm reply.
Leon stepped into view but he wasn't alone.
Next to him stood someone shorter and undeniably blue.
"Wait... your real name's Squall?" Sonic asked, eyes wide with mock shock. "Hah, no way. That's priceless."
Leon sighed through his nose, not rising to the bait. "Long story."
"Guess that's for another day," Sonic said, shrugging. He turned his attention to the boy still sitting on the bed. "You alright, kid?"
"Could be better," Sora mumbled, rubbing his temples.
"Well, you would be, after taking a fireball to the chest," Sonic said with a pointed look, jerking a thumb at Leon. "Courtesy of tall, stoic, and broody over here."
Leon didn't respond, his expression as unreadable.
Sora glanced between them, eyes still unfocused. "What are you, anyway?" he asked, squinting at the blue figure.
"I'm a hedgehog," Sonic replied with a smirk, jabbing a thumb at himself. "Name's Sonic."
"Sonic…" Sora echoed, trying to match the name with everything else in his head. "Well, you do move fast."
"Ha! Fastest thing alive," Sonic grinned, puffing his chest. "But enough about me."
He nodded to the Kingdom Key leaning against the wall near Leon.
"We need to talk about you. And that Key of Destiny."
Sora's gaze followed the motion, landing on the weapon. His eyes widened.
"The Keyblade…"
"Yeah, we had to get it away from you to throw those monsters off your trail," Yuffie chimed in, stepping forward and gesturing as she spoke. "Turns out, they were tracking you through it."
"It was the only way to conceal your heart," Leon added. "But it's temporary. They'll be back."
"And the Keyblade?" Sonic said, crossing his arms. "Let's just say it raises more questions than it answers."
Sora looked overwhelmed.
"Still hard to believe you're the chosen one," Leon muttered, scepticism clear.
"You'd think the chosen one would be taller. Older. Maybe wiser," Sonic added with a teasing grin.
Yuffie nodded enthusiastically. "Totally."
"Hey, I'm fourteen, actually!" Sora snapped, bristling.
"Fourteen?!" Sonic exclaimed, eyebrows shooting up. "No wonder you were swinging that thing like a paddle back in the First District."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Sora shot back.
"It means you're green, kid," Sonic said, folding his arms again. His voice had softened. "You're new to this. Right?"
"I've had plenty of experience!" Sora protested. "I've trained with swords for years!"
"Real swords?"
"…Wooden ones," Sora admitted. "Sparring with friends."
"Then yep. Still green," Sonic said, smirking. "Welcome to the real deal, kid."
"Can you not call me 'kid'?" Sora huffed. "I do have a name."
"Which is…?" Yuffie asked with a grin.
"Sora."
"Well, great to meet you, Sora," Sonic said, offering a thumbs-up. "I got a feeling we'll get along."
"You think?"
"Enough," Leon cut in, voice firm. "We don't have time for this. I need to examine the Keyblade."
Sora hesitated, then nodded towards the wall. "Okay. But be careful."
Leon stepped forward, grasped the weapon—and in an instant, FLASH, it vanished from his hand and reappeared in Sora's grip.
"Whoa!" Sora gasped, staring at the weapon now back in his hand.
Sonic blinked. "Guess it doesn't like you."
"Or maybe…" Yuffie leaned forward, thoughtful. "The Keyblade only listens to one master."
Leon stepped back, exhaling slowly. "Well, beggars can't be choosers."
"Why don't you all start making sense?" Sora asked, voice raised slightly. "What is going on here?"
Leon and Yuffie looked at each other. Sonic rubbed the back of his head.
Red Room
Aerith sat gently on the edge of the velvet-lined bed, her fingers laced in her lap.
"Okay," she began, voice calm but steady. "You all understand there are other worlds out there, right? Outside your own—places like your castle, Mobius… even this one?"
Donald gave a brisk nod, puffing out his chest. "Of course."
"Yeah," said Tails, voice low but assured. "I always figured there had to be more. Especially with my suspicions of late."
Donald blinked. "Suspicions?"
"What d’you mean, Tails?" Goofy asked.
"The stars going out. I’ve been tracking them for a while."
"You know about that too?" Donald asked, brow creasing.
Tails shook his head. "Not at first. But things started lining up. Stars disappearing. Mobius falling to those dark creatures. Me waking up here. It’s not random—it’s connected."
"Gawrsh, Tails," Goofy murmured. "That’s why the King sent us on this special mission. He saw it happenin’ too."
"And we saw one disappear when we arrived here," Donald added.
"Then I guess your King’s got good instincts." Tails folded his arms. "I’ve got a hunch those monsters are tied to it all. But until I get more evidence, it’s just that—a hunch."
Donald eyed him carefully. "Sounds like you’re pretty smart."
"You could say that," Tails replied with a sheepish rub of the neck. "But really, I’ve just seen enough to know the universe is way bigger than any of us thought."
Goofy suddenly gasped, slapping both hands over his mouth. "Wait—oh, gosh!"
Aerith turned to him. "Goofy?"
"Ain’t we not supposed to talk about other worlds?!"
"Wait, really?" Tails perked up. "That’s a rule?"
Donald straightened, crossing his arms tightly. "It's called the World Order. It keeps things from falling into chaos. People jumping between worlds without knowing what they're doing can wreck everything."
Tails tilted his head, thoughtful. "So kind of like an interworld containment policy? Keep each world isolated to avoid cross-contamination?"
"Uhh… yeah! That's one way of putting it!" Goofy said, nodding with a sheepish grin.
"Exactly," Donald muttered, still clearly annoyed. "There's a system. You don't go around blabbing about it."
Tails hummed, folding his arms as he considered that. He didn't argue.
"Still sounds like something bound to break down eventually," he said quietly. "Especially with what's happening now."
Aerith's gaze hadn't left them. When she spoke again, her voice softened—but carried a subtle edge.
"They were kept separate for a reason," she said. "Because they were never meant to connect."
The room went still.
She lowered her gaze slightly. "When the Heartless came, everything changed."
Green Room:
"Okay, Sora," Sonic said, running a hand through his quills as he paced. "You're from some islands, shadow monsters wrecked the place, and now you've got this giant key-weapon you've never seen before. That about right?"
Sora gave a tired nod, still catching up to the whirlwind of recent events.
"You mean the Heartless, Sonic," Leon corrected. "Let's not confuse him more than he already is."
Sonic paused mid-step, nodding once. "Right. Heartless."
Sora frowned slightly. "The Heartless…?" he echoed, trying to piece it together. "Is that what they're called?"
"The ones who attacked you," Yuffie said gently, sitting beside him. "Dark bodies, yellow eyes, move like shadows?"
"Yeah," Sora said slowly. "I remember. They just came out of nowhere…"
Leon's gaze sharpened. "They're called Heartless because they're exactly that. Creatures born from the darkness in people's hearts."
Sora looked at the Keyblade in his hands. "And why do they want me?"
"Because of the Keyblade," Sonic answered, pointing at the weapon. "Far as I can tell, they're drawn to it."
"And to you," Leon added. "The Keyblade and its wielder are both targets."
"The darkness inside people," Yuffie said quietly. "That's what they go after. Doesn't matter who you are."
"And there's darkness in every heart," Leon said, voice low.
Sonic stopped pacing. His expression turned thoughtful.
"Ain't that the truth…" he muttered under his breath.
Sora glanced up at him. "What do you mean?"
Sonic turned, facing him squarely. "It means we all carry stuff we don't talk about. Regrets. Fears. Anger. We all have a dark side from time to time."
Sora lowered his gaze, the weight of everything pressing in.
"Even you guys?"
Leon gave a slow nod. "Especially us."
Yuffie offered a small, reassuring smile. "But that doesn't mean you're doomed. It just means you're human."
"Mobian for me," Sonic corrected, then shrugged. "But point stands."
Sora's fingers curled tighter around the Keyblade's grip. "…But I didn't ask for this. I didn't sign up to fight monsters in strange towns."
"Neither did I," Sonic replied with a shrug.
"What?" Sora asked.
"My world was taken too," Sonic said plainly. "But I know this, moping doesn't bring it back. Running forward does."
"…You're really fast, huh?" Sora said at last, the faintest smile tugging at his mouth.
Sonic smirked. "Like I said before, I'm the fastest thing alive. And right now? You're in my lane."
Yuffie chuckled. "Well said, Blue."
She shifted, glancing over at Leon. "Hey… what about Ansem? Should we tell him?"
Leon's shoulders tensed.
"Ansem?" Sora asked, looking from Yuffie to Leon.
"Who now?" Sonic echoed, scratching the back of his head again.
Red Room
“Ansem?” Goofy rubbed his chin.
“He was studying the Heartless,” Aerith said softly. “He recorded everything in a report.”
Tails folded his arms, tapping one foot as he mulled it over.
“Hmmm…” he murmured. “I’ve definitely heard that name somewhere…”
“You know Ansem and his work?” Aerith asked, turning to him.
Tails scratched the back of his head, a small frown forming. “It came up in my research back home. Feels familiar, but I can’t place it.”
Donald, arms crossed, tapped his foot impatiently.
“So, do you have this report or not?” he snapped.
“Gawrsh, yeah,” Goofy added, eyes hopeful. “Can we take a look?”
“The pages are scattered everywhere” Aerith revealed, shaking her head.
Tails looked in suprise. “No way!”
Donald paused, his foot freezing mid-tap. “Scattered?”
Aerith nodded. “Across many worlds."
Tails’s eyes widened. “That sounds just like the Chaos Emeralds, scattering all over the place!”
“The Chaos what?” Donald asked, confused.
“My world has these powerful gemstones,” Tails explained. “Seven Chaos Emeralds, and a giant Master Emerald that keeps them stable.”
Aerith leaned in, curious. “Go on.”
“They’re packed with chaotic energy. Incredible stuff that can be used for good or evil. When Mobius was swallowed by the darkness, I’m guessing they scattered too. Just like Ansem’s notes.”
Donald and Goofy exchanged glances, trying to keep up.
“Good and evil, huh?” Donald repeated.
“Normally, my pal Sonic can tap into them for good,” Tails continued. “But if they’re out there, who knows who’s using them now.”
Goofy’s eyes lit up. “Gawrsh, what if the King’s out there, lookin’ for both the reports and the emeralds?”
Aerith nodded. “That’s what I was thinking too.”
“Maybe my friends are out there searching,” Tails murmured. “If the emeralds really are scattered…”
“We’ve gotta find ’em fast!” Goofy declared, smacking a fist into his palm.
“Wait!” Donald barked suddenly, spinning around with a dramatic wave of his arms.
Everyone stopped and stared.
“First, we need that key!”
“That's right, the Keyblade,” Aerith echoed with a nod.
Green Room
"So, this is the key," Sora remarked, holding the Keyblade up in front of him.
"Bingo," Sonic quipped teasing smirk on his face. "Wow, we've got a real prodigy on our hands."
Yuffie gave him a half-laugh, then nodded seriously to Sora. "Yes, that is the Keyblade," she confirmed. "And it's a big deal."
"The Heartless fear it," Leon added firmly as he stepped towards the door. "That's why they're going to keep coming after you."
Sora's fingers clenched tighter around the hilt, frustration rising in his voice. "Well, I didn't ask for this."
"The Keyblade chooses its master," Yuffie said gently. "And it chose you, Sora."
Sonic's voice came next—quieter, but heavy. "None of us asked for what's been happening, pal. Me, Leon, Yuffie, and Cid—we didn't sign up to be refugees. We lost our homes too. Maybe even people we cared about. But we're still here."
Sora looked at him, and for a moment, the gap between their experiences didn't feel so wide.
"Time to sink or swim, Sora," Yuffie added, her expression resolute.
"So tough luck," Leon said, leaning against the frame of the door.
"How did this all happen…?" Sora murmured. Then, suddenly—
"Wait! What happened to my island? My home? Riku! Kairi!" he exclaimed, panic surging as he jumped up from the bed.
Leon didn't offer false hope. His expression was honest, if grim. "You know what? I really don't know."
Sora's shoulders slumped slightly, the weight of fear and confusion pulling at him.
Sonic stepped closer. "Hey. I get it. I'm still looking for my friends and answers too. But maybe we can find them together. It's easier when you've got people backing you up."
Leon gave a small nod. "He's right. A lot of worlds are in pain right now. A lot of people are missing. We're all just trying to hold on to what's left and help each other through it."
Sora looked down. His fingers loosened around the Keyblade's grip.
Trying to lift the mood, Yuffie leaned in. "Hey, chin up! I heard the Keyblade can open just about anything. Treasure chests, secret passages… locked doors—"
"Think it'll open a safe full of chilli dogs?" Sonic cut in with a grin. "Y'know… asking for a friend."
Yuffie chuckled. "Maybe. I can't promise it would work though."
"Figures," Sonic replied with a snap of his fingers.
"Jokes aside, the Heartless will keep hunting you, Sora. You've got to be ready for what's coming," Leon warned, turning his head to the Keyblade wielder.
Sonic stepped beside Sora and offered a hand. "Come on. Whatever's waiting out there, we'll take it on together. And hey, sounds like one heck of an adventure to find our friends."
Sora stared at the offered hand, then up at the three of them. His fear hadn't vanished, but something stronger had begun to grow in its place.
He shook Sonic's gloved hand with his free one, the Keyblade still firm in the other.
"I'm ready."
Sonic grinned wide and gave an approving nod before releasing the handshake. "That's the spirit, buddy. Let's go show the Heartless what we can really do as a team."
Suddenly, a sharp cry cut through the room.
"Leon!" Yuffie shouted, pointing to the far corner.
A Soldier Heartless had materialised from the shadows.
"Man, these guys really don't understand personal space, do they?" Sonic muttered, his tone edged with annoyance as he dropped into a defensive crouch.
"Yuffie, go!" Leon barked, stepping in front of the others, Gunblade already raised.
Without hesitation, the ninja grabbed the shuriken from her back and dashed into the adjoining room.
Sora stared, startled, the Keyblade clutched tight.
"Sonic! Sora—let's move!" Leon ordered, voice sharp and focused.
"You don't have to tell me twice, Leon" Sonic said, bringing up his fists.
"But—!" Sora started, eyes wide, but Leon cut him off.
"The Heartless have tracked you—and the Keyblade. We're not safe here!"
"What?"
"Sora, stay close!"
"Stick close, rookie," Sonic added, his voice firm but playful.
"Rookie?!" Sora scoffed—but his protest was lost as Sonic sprang into motion.
Sonic launched into a homing attack, slamming the Soldier Heartless square on the head. As he landed, he drove a stomp crushing it into a burst of dark mist.
"Whoa…" Sora blinked, awestruck by Sonic's speed and precision.
"Ha." Sonic smirked, rubbing a gloved finger under his nose. "Too easy."
Another Heartless appeared, but Leon was already in motion. He swung his Gunblade in a clean arc, sending the creature crashing through the window with a shower of broken glass.
Without hesitation, Leon charged forward and leapt through after it.
"Yeah-ha!" Sonic whooped, eyes lighting up. "Let's take this outside!"
Before Sora could say anything, the hedgehog was gone—diving through the window like it was routine.
With no other choice, Sora clutched the Keyblade and ran.
He jumped through the shattered frame and into the night.
End of Act 2
Act 3 - All For One and One For All:
Alleyway
A sharp burst of wind followed Leon as he landed in the alley. Sonic hit the ground next, uncoiling from a spin and landing on his feet with ease. Sora came down moments later—he stumbled, but caught himself before he fell.
The alley behind the hotel was crawling with Heartless.
Sora swung the Keyblade to his left, striking a Shadow clean across the face and sending it tumbling into the cobblestones. Sonic spun into a blur, crashing into two more and scattering them in dark mist. Leon advanced through the chaos and slashed clean through another, barely breaking stride.
The three moved as if synced—tight, efficient. The alley was clear in seconds.
"Don't waste time on these small fries!" Leon called out, his voice cutting through the smoke. "Find the leader. Move!"
"On it!" Sonic shouted, already charging ahead. "C'mon, Sora!"
"W–Wait up!" Sora cried, bolting after them.
Red Room
"So… that's how it is," Donald muttered, brow furrowed as he tried to piece it all together.
"This Keyblade sounds insanely powerful," Tails said quietly, his mind already spinning with theories.
"Gawrsh," Goofy added with a worried look. "Sounds like we really need to fine it, fellas."
The door slammed open with a sharp bang.
"Aerith!"
A girl with short black hair burst into the room, panting and wide-eyed. A massive shuriken was in her hand.
"Yuffie?!" Aerith stood up from the bed, alarmed.
"What the—!?" Donald quacked loudly.
"Who are you?" Tails asked, his twin tails twitching as he stepped back in surprise.
"The Heartless are here! They're pouring in!" Yuffie warned, already moving towards the centre of the room. "It's not safe anymore!"
From the other doorway, several Shadow Heartless slinked in, spilling like liquid shadow over the floor. Yuffie dashed forward with a flip and struck the first one with her shuriken, cleaving it apart in a flash.
"They're swarming out of nowhere," Tails muttered, spinning his twin tails as he lifted into the air to dodge their slashing claws.
Yuffie flipped through the air and landed just beneath the two tailed fox, crouching low as she blocked a Shadow with smooth, practised motion. "A little help would be great!"
Aerith gave a solemn nod, summoning her silver staff in a flicker of pale light. Goofy raised his shield, ready to fight.
"Let's go get 'em, Goofy!" Donald declared, lifting his staff high with dramatic flair.
But before either of them could move, Tails shouted from above, "Look out!"
A Soldier Heartless burst through the room like a cannonball, slamming into both Donald and Goofy in one brutal swoop.
"WAK—!" Donald flailed as he was launched backwards.
"WAAAAA—!" Goofy bellowed as the pair were sent flying clean through the closed window—
SMASH! CRASH!
They vanished from sight, their limbs flailing as they tumbled through the air outside.
"Gawawawawawawawa!"
"A-hyoooooohooooohooooo!"
Their cries echoed across the rooftops, loud enough to reach the other side of town.
Down below, Sonic landed next to Sora in a blur, having just finished a string of homing attacks. Sora had barely caught his breath after dispatching a particularly stubborn Soldier Heartless, its metal form dissolving into shadow.
Suddenly, chaos erupted from above.
"What the—?!" Sonic glanced skyward, his quills bristling. "Now what?!"
Sora looked up too, eyes wide. But it was too late.
"WAAAK!"
"AHWEE!"
CRASH!
"OOF!"
Donald landed tail-first onto Sora with a loud quack, while Goofy came tumbling after—crashing headfirst into Sonic. The four heroes landed in a groaning heap on the pavement.
"Mmph, what just happened...?" Sora wheezed, pinned under Donald's feathery weight. He still clutched the Keyblade tightly.
"Would you get off me?!" Sonic snarled, face smooshed into the ground under Goofy's backside.
Donald blinked, dazed, until his eyes locked onto the gleam of the Keyblade in Sora's grip.
"The key!" he shouted.
Goofy lifted his head, blinking away cartoonish stars circling his head.
"Huh? Gawrsh... you mean we found it?"
"Looks like it," Donald muttered.
"Congratulations. NOW GET OFF!" Sonic barked from beneath Goofy.
As the group scrambled to their feet, a deep rumble vibrated through the square of the Second District.
"What now?!" Sora gasped, spinning to look around.
The air shimmered ominously. Then with a heavy grinding sound, massive stone blocks rose from the ground, blocking the square's edges. They sealed off every exit like a trap snapping shut.
"Well," Sonic said, bouncing lightly on his toes with anticipation. "Looks like we're not leaving."
As if on cue, Heartless after Heartless emerged. They headed straight for the group.
"Heartless!" Sora shouted, gripping his Keyblade.
"Looks like we're fighting our way outta this one," Sonic smirked, crouching low.
"Lemme at 'em!" Donald snapped, flames already forming at the tip of his staff.
"Here goes!" Goofy called, shield raised and stance wide.
Shadow and Solider Heartless
Battle Music: Night of Fate - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Re:MiX
The Heartless surged in all directions.
Donald wasted no time, swinging his staff and shouting, "FIRE!" Flames burst from the tip and struck a Soldier Heartless mid-leap, flipping it backwards in a smoky burst.
"Hyuck! Let's rumble!" Goofy bellowed, charging shield-first and ploughing into the enemy like a wrecking ball.
Sonic grinned as he dropped into a Spin Dash. "Let's go!" he shouted, exploding forward in a blur of blue. Heartless scattered like bowling pins as he tore through the centre of the swarm.
"Whoa!" Sora blinked, eyes wide. "Not bad!"
Not to be outdone, he dashed into the fray, leapt, twisted midair, and brought the Keyblade down on a Soldier's head with a solid clang. It vanished in a puff of darkness. Another lunged at him, he pivoted sharply and slashed in a clean combo, sending it reeling.
He was starting to find the rhythm. This Keyblade was finally making sense in his hands.
Sonic uncurled from the Spin Dash, leaping high above the fight. "You guys never learn, do ya?" he called, spinning midair before crashing down in a burst of blue light. His Drop Dash crushed a Heartless beneath him. "Nailed it!"
Donald paused, looking at Sonic zipping past. "Boy, he's fast…"
His eyes narrowed, he wasn't about to be upstaged. "FIRE!" he shouted again, blasting another trio of Shadows. They exploded in smoky bursts.
Sora, having just knocked a Soldier back, turned at the flash. "Whoa! That was awesome!"
Donald puffed out his chest proudly. "Well, I am the royal magician, y'know!"
A Shadow lunged behind him—but CLANG! Goofy spun in with his shield, knocking it away.
"Watch your back, Donald!" he called with a grin.
"Heh, thanks!"
The ragtag team were beginning to click.
Sora knocked a Heartless into the air. "Now!"
"Got it!" Donald snapped his staff upwards. A fireball slammed into the airborne Heartless, detonating it mid-flight.
"Nice!" Sora grinned, landing with a small hop.
Goofy swung his shield in a wide arc, knocking two Shadows aside. Sonic vaulted over him, twisted midair, and slammed both feet into another Heartless, flattening it. It burst into dark mist moments later.
"Hey, Shield Guy!" Sonic called out. "Hit me!"
"Er… hit you?" Goofy blinked.
"Just trust me!"
Sonic curled into a Spin Dash and launched himself at Goofy. With a nod, the knight caught on, turned, and smacked Sonic across the square with his shield like a makeshift bat.
Donald's eyes went wide. "What the heck?!"
Sonic ricocheted off a wall, bounced off a stone pillar, then hit the ground—ping-ponging between Heartless, each hit a flash of blue light followed by a vanishing puff of darkness.
He uncurled midair and landed clean on his feet.
"Now that's what I'm talkin' about!" he remarked with a smirk.
Sora stared, wide-eyed. "Did… did that just happen?"
"You could've hit us, you maniac!" Donald squawked, arms flapping in pure outrage.
Sonic shrugged, grinning. "Teamwork, right?" He jabbed a thumb at Goofy. "Shield Guy gets it."
"You betcha… er, blue spiky guy!" Goofy laughed, clearly impressed.
But their banter was abruptly cut short.
With a metallic shriek, something crashed from the sky—massive chunks of armour slamming down like meteors.
"WAAK!" Donald squawked, stumbling back as the ground shuddered beneath them.
THOOM.
CLANG.
BOOM.
The district trembled as enormous pieces of steel struck the ground—first, a pair of red, hammer-like boots; then heavy gauntlets, fingers segmented like claws. A broad, striped torso hovered above them. At its centre, the jagged red crest of the Heartless glowed like a warning.
Sora, Sonic, Donald, and Goofy stood frozen as the pieces pulled themselves together, bound by pure shadow.
The Guard Armor had arrived.
It spun both arms once in a slow, mocking taunt.
"Gawrsh… is that a Heartless too?" Goofy asked, ducking instinctively behind his shield.
"Either that," Sonic muttered, eyeing it up, "or Eggman's upgraded his toys. If so, ol' Egghead's still alive and kicking."
"Eggman?" Sora echoed, puzzled.
"Egghead?" Donald repeated, equally confused.
Sonic sighed. "Forget it. Different problem."
Donald looked up at the creature. "Think we can actually beat that thing?"
"Of course we can," Sonic said without hesitation. "We stick together, we win. Easy."
"But… we've never even fought together before," Goofy pointed out.
Sonic tilted his head. "Uhh, didn't we just flatten a whole swarm of Heartless, like, one minute ago?"
"Oh yeah! That was us!" Goofy laughed, standing straighter.
Sora stepped forward, gripping the Keyblade tight. His hands tremble, but his voice didn't. "We've got this. If we fight togethe, we can take it."
Sonic grinned, stepping in beside him. "Smartest thing you've said since we met, kid."
Suddenly, the Guard Armor came rushing towards them.
"Here we go!" Sonic shouted, launching into a blue blur of motion.
Sora darted forward, Keyblade raised. Donald followed, magic flaring from his staff. Goofy roared, shield braced and charging.
Together, they surged into battle—
Four hearts.
One fight.
GUARD ARMOR
Boss Music: Shrouding Dark Cloud
Sora jumped up first and struck the central body of the massive Heartless, but the hit barely registered.
Sonic zipped in beside him, curled into a ball mid-leap, and collided with the torso in a burst of blue light.
"Didn't even flinch," Sonic muttered, landing and skidded back.
CLANG!
A colossal foot slammed down without warning.
"Quaaack!" Donald cried as it landed right on top of him.
"Oh no!" Sora shouted, already turning.
"Gawrsh, are you okay?!" Goofy cried, rushing to help as Donald flailed under the giant foot.
Meanwhile, the second foot came for Sora. He leapt aside just in time as it smashed into the ground.
A massive fist hurtled towards Sonic—but he vanished in a blur, reappearing behind it with a spin. Another gauntlet swung wide, but he ducked low, skidding beneath it.
"Gonna have to do better than that," he muttered.
"Oh, why you—Fire!" Donald scrambled upright and blasted the right gauntlet with a burst of flame. But it barely singed the armour.
Sonic blurred past a flying punch and muttered under his breath, "Too scattered. No weak point. Right, let's improvise."
He launched off the fountain's rim and delivered a midair kick to the left fist. It spun wildly, forcing the whole monster to stagger. Sonic twisted mid-flight and landed in a crouch.
"We're not gettin' anywhere!" Goofy cried, raising his shield as the left foot thundered after him.
"Take that! And that!" Donald shouted, unleashing a flurry of fire spells at the right foot. The limb faltered, sparks flying with every hit.
"I got it!" Sora called, ducking under a spinning fist. "We've gotta take out one part at a time!"
He rushed in, Keyblade flashing as he struck the weakened foot. Each blow rang out in sharp, metallic bursts.
"Phantom Rush!" Sonic shouted, his form splitting into five blue afterimages. He struck in a lightning-quick flurry—bam, bam, bam—before finishing with a spin that sent the part flying.
Goofy leapt in from the side. "Wahoooo!"
CRASH.
His shield slammed into the foot just as Donald unleashed another fire spell.
BOOM!
With a shudder, the right foot burst apart in a whirl of light.
"Nice!" Sora grinned. "Now the left!"
They worked together like clockwork. Sora and Goofy pummelled the foot while Sonic zipped behind it, kicking off walls to launch homing strikes. Donald provided magical cover, lobbing fireballs from a safe distance.
CRACK!
The left foot shattered spectacularly, bursting apart under the relentless barrage.
"Wowee! That was pretty good!" Goofy yelled, already rushing the spinning gauntlets.
The fists twirled in erratic circles, dizzying and deadly.
Sora and Sonic ducked under one, sliding back to regroup—but Donald wasn't quick enough.
CLANG!
One of the gauntlets spun wide and slammed straight into his chest.
"WAACK!" Donald cried, stars circling his head as he crumpled to the floor.
"We got a duck down!" Sonic shouted, sidestepping another punch as it slammed into the ground beside him with a heavy boom.
"Someone get to him!" Sora called, swinging at the left fist as it tried to swipe at him.
"Donald!" Goofy called out, sprinting across the square with his shield raised. He swerved past a crashing gauntlet and dropped beside his friend, already reaching into his pocket.
"Here ya go, pal!"
He lobbed a potion bottle into the air. It burst in a gentle flash of green light, healing magic shimmering around Donald's prone form.
Donald groaned as the stars faded from his vision. "Thanks..."
"Don't mention it!" Goofy said, helping him up with one hand while blocking a swipe with his shield in the other.
Meanwhile, Sonic launched himself at the right gauntlet. He Spin Dashed into it, ricocheted off a lamp-post, then Homing Attacked again. The fist wobbled mid-spin—and Sora struck the opening.
Together, they destroyed the right hand.
"One left!" Sora called out, punching the air slightly.
"Think fast!" Sonic shouted. He rolled along the curved fountain edge, then leapt—flipping backwards and crashing both feet down onto the last gauntlet like a piledriver.
KABOOM.
The final hand exploded in a swirling storm of shadow, vanishing into the air with a sharp hiss of dark particles.
Only the torso remained.
"Let's finish this!" Sora shouted, leaping high into the air. He brought the Keyblade down in a wide arc, but the torso spun violently mid-air, forcing him to twist aside at the last second.
The floating body pulsed with dark energy. Its spherical helmet gave a slow, menacing creak as it turned—and then, without warning, it dropped low.
With a guttural whirr, the torso launched forward like a battering ram.
"Whoa—!" Goofy barely had time to raise his shield before the full force slammed into him. "Yowch!"
"Goofy!" Donald called out.
Goofy flailed through the air, limbs flopping, the stone wall rushing up to meet him—until a blue blur streaked past.
"I got him!"
Sonic shot up the side of the nearby fountain and caught Goofy mid-flight in a twisting spin. His feet barely touched the ground as he skidded backwards, the full weight of the tall knight slamming into his arms.
He grunted, muscles straining, but held firm.
"Easy there, Shield Guy," Sonic said, crouching low to brace the impact. "I gotcha."
"W-well, thanks, blue buddy!"
Sonic gave a breathless smirk and let him down gently. "No problem. You're a lot heavier than you look though..."
Donald fired spell after spell into the torso. Fire magic hitting with impactful heat.
Sora dashed forward. "Take this!"
He launched himself up and struck the torso hard. The clang echoed like a bell. Sonic was right behind him.
"Mind if I tag in?" Sonic grinned.
He surged forward in a streak of blue light—and then split.
Dozens of afterimages burst around him like mirrored lightning. Sonic blurred into a Phantom Rush, striking the Guard Armor from all angles at once, his rapid-fire blows echoing like thunder. From the others' perspective, it was as if a dozen Sonics were hitting it at once.
With a final wheeze of darkness, the Guard Armor shuddered violently.
Its helmet dropped first, striking the ground with a resonant clang.
Then the torso plummeted after, like a puppet with its strings suddenly cut.
THUD.
Then—silence.
Sora stared at the fallen Heartless. "Is… is that it…?"
"Quack, quack, quack!" Donald growled, still whacking the motionless torso with his staff in a flurry of frustrated blows.
Sonic blinked, tilted his head, then grinned. "Hey, easy there, Feather Fury. Unless it owes you money, I think it's clocked out."
"Yeah, it's beat Donald!" Goofy added cheerfully, adjusting his shield.
Donald huffed, still glaring at the fallen foe. "Hmph. Just makin' sure."
Suddenly, a great heart—glowing and pure—rose from the chest of the defeated Heartless. The group stood in silence, watching as it floated upward, vanishing into the starlit sky above Traverse Town.
"Huh," Sonic muttered, his eyes fixed on the fading glow. "That's new."
The last of the Guard Armor crumbled into sparks and vanished like dark ash in the wind.
Sora lowered the Keyblade, breath catching in his chest.
"We did it…"
Sonic let out a slow whistle. "Now that's how you scrap a monster."
Donald flopped to the ground with a weary sigh.
Goofy gave a cheerful nod. "Gawrsh… nice teamwork everyone."
For a moment, the Second District was still.
No shadows. No chaos.
Just a quiet night, and four heroic hearts still beating.
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: B
Sonic smirked. "B-rank, huh? Could be worse."
He dabbed lazily, then wiped his nose with a gloved finger.
Sora let out a breath, lowering his Keyblade. "Not bad…" He gave a small fist pump.
Donald gawked at the rank. "A B?! That should've been an A!"
"You got flattened," Sonic said without looking.
"Only once!"
Goofy chuckled, slapping his shield. "Hyuck! Still a win in my book!"
Sora smiled at them all. "Next time, we'll do even better."
Sonic gave a nod. "Now you're talkin'."
The four heroes stood in the now-empty square, breath steadying as the dust of battle settled. The Guard Armour was gone, the Heartless defeated—for now.
The quiet hung in the air like a held breath.
Then Sonic's ears twitched.
A soft whirring, rising fast. He knew that sound anywhere.
"Sonic!"
His head snapped up.
"What the—?" Sora gasped, following his gaze.
"It's Tails!" Goofy cried, pointing skyward.
Above the rooftops of Traverse Town, a small figure glided into view—his twin tails spinning like rotors.
Sonic's eyes widened. A grin cracked across his face.
"Tails!"
The flying fox waved down, his flight descending into a careful arc. Within moments, he landed safely in the square—his feet barely touching the cobblestones before he sprinted the last few steps and threw his arms around Sonic.
"I can't believe it's really you!" Tails said, voice shaking with emotion.
"Hey, easy there, buddy." Sonic chuckled, returning the hug with a firm pat on the back. "No need to get all mushy on me."
But his grin didn't fade, and neither did the relief in his eyes.
Still holding on, Tails gave a shaky laugh. "I thought I'd lost you…"
"Not a chance," Sonic said quietly.
Their reunion said more than words could.
"Tails was looking for you," Donald said, speaking up.
"You were?" Sonic asked, unbracing with the fox. One hand rested on Tails's shoulder. "Well, I was looking for you too."
He turned to Donald and Goofy. "So, you guys know Tails?"
"Sure do," Goofy said with a warm nod. "We found him earlier, all by his lonesome."
"We saved him from the Heartless," Donald added proudly, puffing up a bit proudly.
Sonic gave the duck and dog a grateful nod. He lowered his hand from Tails's shoulder.
"Well, least you're safe, buddy."
Sora watched the reunion with a soft smile, but deep down, something stirred—an ache. Seeing Sonic find his friend brought joy… and a pang of longing.
"Riku… Kairi… where are you?"
Before the group could say more, a voice called out from above.
"Not too shabby, Sora."
They all looked up.
Leon stood on the high wall nearby, arms crossed.
Sora stepped forward, raising his voice. "Well, I didn't beat it myself, you know."
"That's right!" Donald chimed in, trying to elbow in. "He had the royal magician Donald Duck to—"
"Shh!" Goofy hushed him quickly, placing a finger over his beak.
Sonic and Tails both laughed under their breath.
"So, you've already met the others?" Leon asked, scanning the group.
"Met?" Sora began, but Sonic stepped in with a grin.
"We met, kicked Heartless butt… but we still don't know Shield Guy and Feathers over there," Sonic said, thumbing towards Goofy and Donald.
"The loud one's Donald, and the brave one with the shield is Goofy," came a soft voice from behind the group.
They all turned.
Aerith walked up to them, her presence calm and warm, a gentle smile lighting her face.
Sonic and Sora both turned to get a proper look. Even at a glance, they could tell—this woman radiated kindness.
"That's us, all right," Donald said proudly, jabbing a thumb into his chest.
Goofy nodded. "Nice to meet ya, blue guy, and, errr…"
"The speedy blue hedgehog is Sonic, and the Keyblade wielder is Sora," came another voice, this time from the stairs.
They turned again—Yuffie was bounding down the last step, her energy as bright as her grin.
"Well, I normally introduce myself," Sonic said, rubbing the back of his neck, "but I guess Yuffie beat me to it."
"So I'm faster?" Yuffie teased, hands on her hips.
"This time," Sonic replied, giving her a quick wink.
Leon gave the faintest smirk at the exchange as he jumped down from the wall. He landed smoothly and walked towards them with his usual quiet resolve.
"Donald and Goofy have been looking for you, Sora," he said, his tone calm but firm.
"For me?" Sora blinked, glancing between Leon, Donald, and Goofy. He pointed at himself. "You mean… you two were looking for me this whole time?"
"Yuh-huh," said Donald and Goofy together, nodding in unison.
Sonic tilted his head slightly. "Don't suppose you two were lookin' for me too?"
Donald rubbed the back of his head. "Well, no… but from what Tails told us, I'm glad we ran into you."
"Oh?" Sonic raised a brow, shooting a smirk towards his best friend. "Hope it was all good things, buddy."
Tails gave a sheepish laugh. "I might've said one or two things, but mostly we talked about our world being lost."
Sonic's grin faltered. A shadow passed behind his eyes.
But before the silence could settle, Aerith stepped forward and leaned over. Her hand came gently to rest on Sonic's shoulder, her touch light and full of warmth.
"Don't feel down," she said softly. "I'm glad Tails found you. He spoke so highly of you, and I'm sure the rest of your friends are out there somewhere."
Sonic looked up at her and felt something unspoken settle in his chest. Comfort.
"…Thanks," he said, then hesitated. "Wait—what's your name?"
"Aerith."
"Nice to meet you, Aerith." He smiled. "And thanks for lookin' out for my buddy."
Tails gave Aerith a grateful nod. She smiled back, the moment warm and calm.
"Hey, why don't you come with us?" Goofy offered brightly, stepping forward. "We can travel to other worlds on our vessel."
"Other worlds…?" Sora repeated under his breath.
"Really?" Sonic asked, one hand now resting on his hip.
"We're lookin' for our King," Goofy explained. "He set out on a journey, and we were told to find the Key."
Donald gestured towards Sora. "And you've got it."
Sora looked down at the Keyblade in his hand, thoughts turning inward. Riku. Kairi. Maybe this was the way to find them.
"…I wonder if I could find Riku and Kairi," he murmured, gaze distant.
Sonic watched him quietly, his expression softening.
"I've got friends to find too," he said gently. "I've got Tails back, but there's still so many others out there. Knuckles, Amy, maybe even Shadow."
Sora turned to him, eyes wide with understanding. "You have more friends missing too?"
Sonic nodded. "Sure do. And I need answers. Like you, I want to know how to get my world back."
He looked up, eyes steady.
"Mobius… your islands… they're not gone forever, I know it. We just have to keep running until we find the truth."
Sora's fingers tightened slightly around the Keyblade. Slowly, he gave a small, resolute nod.
"Right."
The boy turned to Donald and Goofy.
"Do you think we can really find our friends, and the answers we need?"
"Of course," Donald said, his voice carrying a hopeful lilt.
Sora's face brightened. He turned to Sonic and Tails. Sonic gave a confident thumbs-up. Tails nodded, his expression calm but determined.
As Sora and Sonic shared a glance, something unspoken passed between them—understanding. They were both searching. Both had lost something.
Meanwhile, Goofy leaned closer to Donald, lowering his voice.
"Are you sure about this?" he whispered.
"Who knows?" Donald muttered back, thumb pointing subtly at Sora and Sonic. "But we need Sora to come with us if we're going to find the King."
"And Sonic?" Goofy asked, glancing briefly at the hedgehog before quickly looking away.
"He's been pretty handy when things get dicey," Donald admitted. "I think we should bring him along. Just in case."
Before they could say another word—
"Hey, you two?" Sonic called out.
Donald and Goofy jumped slightly. They turned to see Sonic looking straight at them, one brow raised. Beside him stood Sora, Tails, Yuffie, Aerith, and Leon—arms folded, eyebrow raised.
"You keepin' secrets?" Sonic asked, a teasing grin tugging at his mouth.
"Secrets…? Uhh… nooo," Donald stammered, waving a hand. "Just… strategy talk!"
Goofy scratched the back of his head and laughed nervously. "Yup! Just… strategisin', hyuck!"
Sonic folded his arms, still smirking. "You're not very sneaky, y'know."
Aerith covered a soft laugh behind her hand. Yuffie shook her head with a grin. Even Leon allowed himself a quiet sigh.
Amusement still on his face, Tails turned to Sonic, but his tone grew serious.
"Sonic… this might be our best shot. Not just to find our friends, but the Chaos Emeralds. And maybe even shards of the Master Emerald."
Sonic raised a brow. "You think so?"
Tails nodded. "Yeah. If Mobius is gone, then the emeralds must've scattered. You might find them out there, somewhere. And if you do, it could be the key to saving Mobius. Maybe even other lost worlds too."
"What are Chaos Emeralds?" Sora asked, tilting his head in curiosity.
Yuffie's eyes sparkled. "Ooooh, sounds like treasure!"
Sonic looked at her sideways. "Treasure?"
"Like rare materia," Yuffie went on excitedly. "You wouldn't believe how many times I've found some under a rock."
Sonic blinked. "Materia?"
"Long story," Aerith said gently, stepping in. "For another day."
Leon nodded. "Trust me. You don't want to open that one right now."
Sora glanced at Sonic. Donald looked at Sora. Goofy looked at both of them.
They all shrugged in unison.
Tails chuckled and stepped forward. "The Chaos Emeralds are powerful gems from mine and Sonic's world, Sora. There are seven in total. Each one holds a massive amount of energy, and when they're brought together…"
“Big boom?” Goofy guessed.
“Big everything,” Tails confirmed. “Speed, energy, even time and space. But there’s also the Master Emerald. It’s even stronger. It keeps the others in balance. And if the Chaos Emeralds are scattered then chances are, pieces of the Master Emerald are too.”
“We think the King might be out there lookin’ for ’em,” Goofy added, eyes lighting up. “Tails said he’d been studyin’ the stars goin’ out. Sounds like the same trail we’re on.”
“And we think it’s all connected,” Aerith said softly, her voice thoughtful but sure.
“Totally,” Yuffie agreed, nodding. “It’s all one big cosmic puzzle.”
Leon didn’t speak, he just nodded once, slow and deliberate.
“Makes sense to me,” Sonic said, looking to his best friend. “Tails’s theories usually hit the mark.”
“Yeah… I just wish the theory didn’t involve worlds ending,” Tails muttered with a shrug. “But hey, you take what you get.”
Leon finally unfolded his arms. He stepped forward, voice firm.
“Sora. Sonic. If you want to find your friends—and the answers you’re looking for—go with them.”
"And let's not forget about those emeralds!" Yuffie said brightly, punching the air.
"You're not having them, Yuffie," Sonic shot back with a smirk.
"Ohhh!" Yuffie groaned. "Just one? I swear I’d only use it for, like… extremely stylish explosions."
"Nope."
She crossed her arms with a huff. "Spoilsport."
Sonic just grinned. "Thanks."
"Don’t forget the Ansem Reports," Aerith said softly, stepping in.
"Oh yeah! Those might be real helpful," Donald added, perking up.
"Yep!" Goofy said, raising a finger like it sealed the deal. "They might even help us find out where the King’s gone."
"And everything that’s happening across the stars," Tails added, his twin tails twitching. "Especially if he was studying the Heartless too."
"So, one big scavenger hunt across the worlds for lost emeralds and answers?" Sonic mused, hand resting on his hip.
"Sounds like it," Donald nodded.
"Works for me." Sonic gave the duck a thumbs-up. "Count me in."
But then the air shifted.
The group’s attention turned to Sora.
He stood a little apart. Quiet. Eyes down. A shadow of doubt flickering across his face.
"You okay?" Sonic asked.
"Yeah… just thinking," Sora replied softly, raising his head up.
"Well, the way I see it, tagging along's the best thing to do. It's our best shot at finding lost friends and the truth."
"Yeah… I guess…"
Could he really find Kairi and Riku?
He had just fought alongside these three so well, but could he keep doing that?
Anyway, wasn't it all just about the Keyblade?
"Wait—no". Sora remembered. He'd already decided. This was something he had to do.
But still…
"Can I really do anything?"
"Sora…" Donald gave him a serious look, pointing at him. "You can't come along looking like that."
"Huh? Why not?!" Sora protested, frowning.
Goofy was the first to chime in, arms flailing. “Aw, come on now, Sora!”
Sora kept staring at Donald, clearly not amused.
"No frowning. No sad faces. Got it?" Donald said, scrunching his beak into a dramatic pout, brows drawn in tight like a cartoon thundercloud.
Goofy nodded sagely. “Yup. Only smiles allowed aboard the Gummi Ship!”
Sonic tilted his head, arms crossed. "Wait, you guys have a Gummi Ship? Cid hook you up?"
Donald shook his head proudly. “Nope. Chip and Dale built ours back home.”
Sonic raised an eyebrow and glanced at Tails.
The fox shrugged. “Gummi… what now?”
“Oh, buddy…” Sonic grinned, his mind flashing back to Cid’s cramped little workshop above the Accessory Shop. “You’re gonna love it.”
Goofy leaned in, his face now stretched into a comically wide grin. “Anyway, ya gotta look funny. Like us!”
Donald puffed out his chest. “Our ship runs on happy faces!”
Sora looked between them, deadpan. Then…
"Ngeeeee!" He popped his eyes wide and pulled the silliest grin he could muster.
Donald and Goofy burst out laughing.
"Yeah, like that, Sora!" Donald cheered.
"But that face… is too funny!" Goofy fell and rolled on the ground, howling with laughter.
"Seriously…" Leon muttered from behind them, but even he cracked a dry smile.
Aerith giggled softly. Yuffie actually doubled over, laughing so hard she had to lean on Tails for support. Tails just shook his head fondly, a quiet smile on his face.
Sonic laughed too. "Not bad, kid. You've got comedic range."
Sora straightened up, his real smile finally shining through.
"Okay. I'll go with you guys," he said, voice steady. "I'm going to find them."
He stepped forward and held out his hand.
"So, let's do this right. Donald Duck!"
"The name's Goofy!" Goofy said proudly, placing his hand on top of Donald's.
Sonic stepped up next, nodding once. "Well, you know me. But hey, reintroductions and all. Name's Sonic. Sonic the Hedgehog." He placed his hand atop Goofy's.
"And I'm Sora!" he declared, slapping his hand on top.
"All for one, and one for all!" Goofy yelled out.
With no Heartless in sight and new bonds formed, Traverse Town felt quieter now. It was softer and warmer. Like the kind of place where hope could start again.
Somewhere across the many worlds...
Black Shadows gathered around a stone pedestal.
In its centre, a ring of light glowed softly—projecting an image of Sora, Donald, Goofy, and Sonic. They stood together victorious.
“Another Heartless down,” Ursula sneered, her tentacles twitching. “It sickens me!"
“That kid’s more trouble than he looks,” Hades muttered. “And now he’s got a talking fuzzball with sneakers on his team. Love that for us.”
“Disruptive. Predictably erratic,” came the cool, calculated voice of Caleb Goldman. His eyes were fixed on the image. “But that makes him dangerous. Unpredictability is chaos.”
Chief Blank crossed his arms, lounging in the glow of the projection with an exaggerated scoff. “Please. This is all just low-budget drama. Kid with a key, a rodent in sneakers, and a duck that can barely aim. They wouldn’t last five seconds on Space Channel 5.”
Reala chuckled darkly, floating nearby with disdain in his eyes. “You’d make better use of your breath not wasting it, clown. The hedgehog alone moves faster than your ratings ever did.”
Blank bristled. “Don’t start with me, Nightmaring. I’ve seen better villains on late-night karaoke.”
"It's NIGHTMAREN, you simpleton!"
"Whatever..."
“That is enough!" Maleficent’s voice cut through the room like a blade. She stepped into the centre, her staff pointed to the ring of light. “That is the power of the Keyblade. But the strength is not the boy’s alone.”
“And the hedgehog?” Goldman asked quietly.
“A curiosity,” Maleficent answered. “Fast. Stubborn. But breakable.”
Hades snorted, waving a hand. “So what, we turn ’em into Heartless—boom, problem solved. Then we kick back with Underworld cocktails and toast to vintage villainy. Maybe torch some marshmallows on the River Styx while we’re at it.”
Blank perked up behind his pink shades. “Now that’s the kind of programming I can get behind. Call it... Operation Overkill: Live!”
Reala rolled his eyes and floated slightly higher, arms folded. “You’re both fools. The Keyblade doesn’t obey force. But if the wielder stumbles—if he starts to doubt—then we twist the blade.”
“Test the child,” Goldman murmured, tone neutral. “Pressure breaks all things. Strip away hope, isolate the boy and watch his resolve fracture.”
Ursula’s voice slithered into the pause like oil through water. “Why bother with the boy at all? Pluck out the King's Captain. Snap the duck mage. Rip the foundation out from under them, then see how long he lasts.”
Goldman didn’t blink. “The others are irrelevant. Weak links in a chain forged by naïveté. Remove them, and the Keybearer stands exposed.”
“Like bait for a trap,” Reala mused, smirking. “A game of chess, and the pawns are already twitching.”
Jafar approached, the eyes of his serpent staff glowing faintly. “But the boy's begun to uncover the path… He will seek the Keyholes soon.”
“It is only a matter of time,” Maleficent said. “But he is still ignorant of our greater design.”
“The princesses,” Ursula rasped, licking her lips.
“Yes. They fall into our hands, one by one.” Maleficent turned, raising her staff.
Two Heartless dragged in a prisoner—her sobs soft, her form trembling.
“Snow White…” Reala murmured with mock delight. “A delicate dream wrapped in fear.”
The girl collapsed at the base of the pedestal. Her red ribbon trembled with each breath, gold slippers scuffed from the struggle.
Blank’s glasses flashed. “Now that’s a ratings grabber.”
“Touch her and I will erase you,” Reala hissed.
“Ohh, scary! Did daddy Wizeman teach you that one?”
Maleficent didn’t even look at them. “She is the second. And the Keyblade bearer is none the wiser.”
Hades leaned lazily against the wall. “And what about this Eggman guy? Still MIA in your secret villain wine cellar?”
Goldman’s gaze barely shifted. “A mind like his could aid our plans… if it can be turned.”
“He remains… elusive,” Maleficent said, eyes narrowing. “But I will find him. And when I do, he will serve our cause. One way or another.”
“A shame,” Reala said, folding his arms. “I would’ve enjoyed dissecting his machines.”
“Let the boy come,” Jafar said. “Let the hedgehog follow.”
“The Key will lead them to us,” Maleficent declared. Her staff lowered. “And when it does, all the worlds shall fall to darkness.”
The chamber fell into silence.
And far above the ring of light, the stars continued to vanish, one by one.
Back in Traverse Town
In the quiet glow of the First District, Sonic chatted with Leon, Yuffie, and Aerith while Sora stood nearby, trying to follow Donald and Goofy’s animated debate about dodge rolls and fire spells. Donald flapped wildly, mimicking explosions. Goofy nodded along helpfully.
“Make sure you’re prepared for the journey ahead,” Leon said calmly to Sonic. “We still don’t know how far the Heartless have spread.”
“Check out the shops here!” Yuffie added cheerfully. “They’ve got some neat stuff.”
“Like chili dogs?” Sonic asked, eyes lighting up.
“No, Sonic,” Yuffie said with a laugh. “No chili dogs.”
“Dang...” Sonic’s shoulders slumped. “So much for universal cuisine.”
Aerith stepped over and handed Sora a small pouch. “Here—500 munny. From all of us.”
“Munny?” Sonic tilted his head. “Wait, what’s that—magic coin dust?”
“It’s currency,” Leon replied, flat as ever.
“You guys don’t use munny back on Mobius?” Yuffie asked, genuinely curious.
“Nope. We mostly roll with rings.”
“Rings?” Aerith echoed, a soft note of wonder in her voice.
Sonic gave a small shrug. “Yeah. If you’ve got rings, you’re golden. No rings? One hit and you’re normally done. Real incentive not to mess up.”
Yuffie blinked. “...That sounds incredibly stressful.”
“I say it builds character,” Sonic grinned. “But I guess I’ll have to get used to a currency that sounds more like a noise than a value.”
Yuffie smirked as she reached over and handed the hedgehog two small vials.
“These are yours. A Hi-Potion and an Elixir.”
Sonic turned them over, inspecting the glass. “So… healing items, right?”
“Exactly,” Aerith nodded. “The Elixir’s rare. Use it wisely.”
“Thanks, I appreciate it,” Sonic said, tucking them carefully into his quills. “But I’m still banking on not getting hit. No rings means no mistakes.”
Yuffie leaned in with a playful grin. “Rings must be pretty important where you’re from, huh?”
“Oh yeah,” Sonic said. “Whether it’s staying alive or buying snacks, they’re lifesavers.”
“I’d rather not get a message from your team saying you’re out of commission,” Leon said, arms folded.
“No promises,” Sonic replied with a smirk. “But I’ll do my best to avoid the game over screen.”
Yuffie laughed. “Well, good luck out there! Keep safe, okay?”
“I hope you find your friends,” Aerith added, voice warm. “And the emeralds.”
“And the reports,” Yuffie chimed in with a wink. “Those things are important too!"
Leon stepped forward, serious as ever. “Watch each other’s backs. Keep Sora sharp. And… keep morale up. With that usual attitude of yours.”
Sonic blinked. “Wait. You? Telling me to boost team morale? You’re like, the poster boy for brooding.”
Leon gave a faint smirk.
“I’ve worked with others like you before. That kind of energy helps more than you think.”
“Worked with others, huh?” Sonic gave a sideways glance at Yuffie and Aerith.
“He’s right,” Yuffie said with a nod. “Leon used to be a mercenary when he was younger. He knows how to lead and fight.”
“A mercenary, huh?” Sonic smirked. “What’s next—you pals with witches that can bend time or something?”
Leon said nothing.
Aerith and Yuffie exchanged a glance. Their silence said plenty.
Sonic blinked. “Wait… you serious—?”
Leon’s eye twitched. Just a little.
“…Don’t start,” he muttered.
Yuffie snorted. “Yeah, let’s not unpack that memory dungeon.”
“It's a bit of a sore subject,” Aerith added gently.
Sonic raised both hands. “Okay, okay—no more jokes.”
Leon sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “Good.”
A beat passed.
“So… does she ride a broom, or…?”
Leon turned slowly—his stare flat and ice-cold, the kind that could silence a room or punch through stone.
Sonic raised his hands, grinning nervously. “Okay, okay! I’m done. No need for the laser eyes, Leon.”
Leon didn’t respond.
But the silence said everything.
“Sonic,” came Tails’ voice, stepping in at just the right moment, his tone just firm enough to ground the hedgehog.
“Right, serious now. Totally focused,” Sonic said, rubbing the back of his head with a sheepish grin. He turned as the fox approached the group. “Yo, Tails. How’s getting to know Cid?”
Tails scratched the back of his own head, offering a small, knowing smile. “He’s blunt. Gruff. But I think we’ll get along just fine.”
Sonic grinned. “Sounds about right.”
“But,” Tails added, shifting his stance, “I’m actually here to give you something. Something I tinkered with.”
“Huh?”
Tails reached behind his back and without explanation, he pulled out a familiar necklace, one with a green bauble shimmering faintly in the Traverse Town light.
“Wait a second…” Sonic stepped forward, his eyes locking on it. “That looks like—Chip’s necklace. I’d recognise that green glow anywhere.”
“Chip?” Yuffie tilted her head, hands on her hips. “Who’s Chip?”
Aerith leaned forward slightly. “A friend of yours?”
Sonic went quiet for a moment, eyes on the bauble.
“Yeah...” he said, his voice lower now. “Back when Mobius was split by Dark Gaia, he helped me seal the pieces back together. Chip’s more than just a buddy. He’s Light Gaia.”
“Light Gaia?” Leon repeated, arching a brow.
Sonic nodded. “Embodiment of the planet’s balance. The other half of Dark Gaia. We met when the world shattered, and… well, let’s just say we saved it together.”
Yuffie looked intrigued. “So, like, a world-spirit sidekick?”
“Something like that,” Sonic said with a small shrug. “He’s goofy, loves food—especially chocolate—but when things got serious… he was the only one who could help me stop the end of everything.”
“And he gave you that necklace?” Aerith asked.
Sonic gave a faint nod. “I wore it for a few days. Left it back at Tails’s place once things were stable.”
Tails looked down at it in his hand. “I grabbed it before the darkness hit. Kept it close.”
The trio shared a glance. Tails’s ears folded a little, but he perked up soon enough.
“But it’s not just a keepsake anymore!” he said quickly, holding it out. “I got to work with some materials in Cid’s shop and… I turned it into an elemental conduit.”
“A what-now?” Sonic asked, blinking in confusion.
“Here.” Tails handed it over. “Put it on.”
Sonic slipped the necklace over his glove, letting it rest just under the wrist like a snug bracelet. The moment it settled—
FWOOSH.
The bauble pulsed. Red light flared from within, glowing like hot embers.
“Whoa!” Sonic yelped, admiring the bracelet. “Why’s it glowing red?!”
“Tada!” Tails beamed, spreading his arms wide. “You can channel fire magic through it. Works like an elemental enhancement. Boosts your melee attacks with flame.”
“You’re serious?” Sonic stared at his wrist. “This little thing does that?”
“Yep!” Tails said. “Think of it like a powered-up charm. If you land enough hits in a row, you might even trigger a fire burst mid-combo.”
Aerith’s eyes widened. “That’s amazing…”
Yuffie leaned in. “Tails, how did you build that so fast?!”
Tails shrugged, his expression shifting to playful mystery. “It’s a secret.”
Leon folded his arms. “Tails.”
“Okay, okay—no secrets.” Tails laughed nervously. “Let’s just say, I know how to work with energy transfer. Let me know how it works in combat. If it holds up, I’ll try tuning it with other elements."
“You’re the best, buddy,” Sonic said, raising a fist.
Tails bumped it without hesitation. “Right back at you.”
Leon stepped closer. “Tails is staying here in the First District. Cid’s giving him a workshop slot.”
“Really?” Sonic looked surprised. “You sure you don’t want to tag along with us?”
“I’d love to,” Tails admitted, “but this place needs the backup. I can help build new systems, figure out what the Gummi Blocks really do, and maybe find better ways to track the Chaos Emeralds.”
Sonic smiled softly. “You always think ahead.”
“I learned from the best.”
The bracelet shimmered faintly, still pulsing with warm firelight.
Sonic looked down at it one last time then up, to the stars above.
“Wherever you are, Chip…” he murmured softly. “I hope you’re safe.”
There was a quiet pause, just long enough for the breeze to settle, before footsteps approached.
“Hey,” came Sora’s voice. “You guys ok?”
Sonic turned, smirking. “Yep. You?”
Sora nodded with a smile. “Yeah! Donald and Goofy were just showing me how to cast Fire. And… helping me not trip over my own dodges.”
“Hey!” Donald huffed. “Those were expert-level techniques.”
Sonic raised his wrist, showing off the flickering red bauble wrapped beneath his glove. “Looks like we’re all packing firepower now. Tails whipped this up.”
Goofy leaned in curiously. “Gawrsh… what is it?”
“It’s a modified elemental conduit,” Tails explained, stepping up beside them. “I upgraded an old necklace with some enchantment nodes. Long story short—Sonic can ignite his attacks with fire now.”
“Whoa…” Sora’s eyes lit up. “That’s awesome!”
“I know,” Donald muttered. “I want one.”
“But Donald, you can summon fire from your staff,” Goofy said, tilting his head.
Donald waved a hand. “Yeah, but that looks cooler.”
Sonic chuckled, crossing his arms. “Guess we’ll have to settle this the old-fashioned way—fire-off. See who’s got the hottest moves.”
“Ohhh boy,” Yuffie grinned. “Just don’t set the Gummi Ship on fire.”
Everyone laughed. Leon didn’t. Just a small smirk—stoic as ever.
Then the tone shifted.
“Come on, Sonic,” Goofy said gently. “It's time to go.”
Donald turned, pointing towards the towering wooden gate nearby. “The Gummi Ship’s just past there.”
Sonic nodded, then turned back to the trio behind him. Tails. Leon. Aerith. Yuffie.
“You four hold the fort, alright?” he said, his voice steady but warm.
Leon folded his arms once more. “Count on it.”
Aerith offered a gentle nod. “We’ll be here if you need anything.”
“You’re gonna do great out there,” Yuffie added, raising a fist. “Good luck!"
Tails took a step forward, gaze fixed on his oldest friend.
“Stay safe, Sonic,” he said softly. “And if anything happens, you know how to reach me.”
“Right back at you, buddy.”
The two shared a firm nod.
Then, without another word, Sonic turned with a wave and walked to the gate, falling into step beside Sora, Donald, and Goofy.
As the great wooden doors opened before them, Leon watched silently, arms still folded.
“They’ll need each other,” he said firmly.
Tails stood beside him. “They’ve got that part figured out.”
Aerith clasped her hands gently at her chest. “Still, may the stars guide their hearts.”
Yuffie tilted her head, watching the four disappear beyond the gate. “Guess we’re holding down the home base now.”
The doors closed.
The First District quieted once more.
But far above, up where the stars shimmered over Traverse Town’s flickering lights, a new journey had already begun.
End of Act 3
Notes:
Hey folks, thanks for making it to the end of this chapter!
This marks the first major rewrite of the original Traverse Town visit, and I’ve gotta say—it feels so good to finally share this new version. The original version of this arc was split across two chapters and came out to nearly 25k words. This rewrite clocks in at just under 20k, but I’d argue it hits harder in half the time. Punchier scenes, tighter dialogue, and a better sense of flow.
A Few Highlights:
The world-building for Traverse Town pulls subtle inspiration from Rooftop Run (Day)—especially the version remixed by Silent Dreams on YouTube. It’s an underrated gem.This story takes place after Sonic Unleashed and Sonic and the Black Knight in the Blue Blur continuity, so if you spotted nods to Chip or Caliburn… yep, totally on purpose. Chip’s old necklace becoming a flame-channeling bracelet is one of my favourite changes. A little tribute to the chocolate-loving planet spirit himself.
The Fire Ring from the original? Gone. Replaced with something more emotionally grounded. It's more than just an accessory now—it's a memory, a tool, and a symbol of what Sonic’s lost and what he’s still running toward.
You’ll also notice I’ve started working NPC-style dialogue and cameos into scenes, a feature inspired by Chain of Generations Re:MiX. These little interactions will pop up here and there. Expect fun callbacks, meta jokes, and blink-and-you’ll-miss-it world lore nuggets.
Mobi Advisor—yes, it is a joke on Trip Advisor.
The FF characters in this saga may have come from their fallen world, but their pasts aren’t copy-paste KH canon. Some of you who know COG ReMiX might already spot differences - Example Omega talking with Cloud and Tifa about their history. More on that in later chapters...What's Next?
This story is now officially part of the Kingdom Hearts: Blue Blur Saga 1.5 Re:Mastered Arc. I’m planning to reorganise the series listings soon to reflect this shift properly. Think of this as 1.5 Final Mix energy—new layers, deeper character arcs, and a more cohesive narrative across the saga.Next up: a shorter chapter featuring the first official entry in Jiminy’s Journal and a small scene or two. That one should land in about a week or so, followed by Wonderland in the coming weeks.
Thanks for sticking around. I know this saga is a lot, but this version of the story feels more true to where I am now as a writer, and to the characters too.
Let me know what you thought of the rewrite. Did it hit better than the original? Sharper, cleaner, more emotionally grounded? Or are there things you miss from the old version?
As always—reviews, kudos, or just a quick “hey, I liked this!” or "I have a suggestion" or even "Any chance you can keep/change this" ... it means the world.
Catch you in the next chapter.
Chapter 4: Jiminy's Journal - Traverse Town
Summary:
Just like in Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix – Blue Blur Edition, I’ve added Jiminy’s journal entries into the rewrite. These entries will appear after each world, offering a fun and thoughtful recap of the team’s journey. Also in this chapter, a unique crossing of paths unfolds—and elsewhere, Eggman finds himself wandering through the darkness. Please enjoy!
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
As the four heroes exited through the large gate of Traverse Town, a strange and mysterious space opened up in front of them. Floating in that empty void was a single object—sleek, blocky, and unmistakably eccentric:
The Gummi Ship.
“So, this is your ship, huh?” Sonic said as they walked towards it. “Still amazes me what those tiny blocks can do.”
“That’s so cool!” Sora exclaimed, his eyes wide with wonder.
“This is our trusted vessel, alright! C’mon, let’s get going!” Donald declared, already hurrying everyone to get on board.
But then, a small voice echoed out from nowhere.
“Hey! Aren’t you forgetting someone?”
“Huh? Who said that?” Sora asked, glancing around.
Everyone turned in confusion, until Jiminy Cricket popped up onto Goofy’s shoulder, seemingly from thin air.
“WHOA!” Sora yelped, stumbling backwards and landing with a thud.
Sonic looked up, eyes narrowing as he took in the figure. “Well, that’s new…” he muttered. Then, with a flick of his head and a curious smirk, he planted his gloved fists on his hips, knuckles facing out. “Who’s that supposed to be?”
“Gawrsh… Donald, we never introduced Jiminy to Sonic and Sora,” Goofy said, blinking in realisation. He rubbed the back of his neck, then turned his gaze to the tiny cricket on his shoulder. “Sorry about that, pal.”
Donald flailed his arms, feathers puffing up. “WAK! I knew we forgot something important!”
Jiminy adjusted his tiny top hat with a polite smile and waved a gloved hand dismissively. “Oh, don’t worry yourselves! You had your hands full with those Heartless. I can’t blame you for missing a few formalities.”
“Jiminy?” Sonic echoed, stepping forward to get a better look at the cricket on Goofy’s shoulder.
Sora rose to his feet, sheepishly rubbing his head. “Sorry about that—you just surprised me.” He held out his hand flat. “I’m Sora.”
Jiminy smiled warmly and hopped into the boy’s palm, doffing his hat with a polite bow.
“Pleasure to meet you, Sora. Cricket’s the name—Jiminy Cricket, at your service!”
Sonic walked up beside them. “And I’m Sonic. Nice to meet ya, Jiminy.”
“Likewise, Sonic! I’ve actually got some impressive notes jotted down on you in my journal already. I've been keeping a close eye on things.”
“Journal?” Sonic tilted his head. “What do you mean?”
“What kind of notes?” Sora asked curiously.
“Jiminy here’s the Royal Chronicler,” Goofy explained. “He’s gonna be writing up all our adventures!”
Sora’s eyes widened. “Really?!”
“Absolutely!” Jiminy nodded. With a small flourish, he reached around and produced a small but compact, maroon-coloured book with gold stitching and a shining crown emblem embossed on the cover.
Sonic raised an eyebrow. “For such a small book, it looks like it’s ready to explode with info.”
“You wouldn’t be wrong, Sonic” Jiminy said proudly. “Say... You folks want to see what I’ve written so far?”
“Sure!” Sora said, nodding excitedly.
Sonic placed one hand on his hip and gestured at the cricket in Sora’s hand. “Go for it, little guy.”
Goofy smiled. “Would be kinda fun to see what Jiminy’s got down already.”
Donald huffed, folding his arms. “Fine. But five minutes, then we launch!”
“Alright,” Sora agreed, turning his head from Donald to Jiminy. “So… what’ve you got for us?”
Jiminy cleared his throat, he flipped open his journal, and began to read...
[Collection Room (File Select) - Sonic Generations starts playing]
Jiminy's Journal
Chronicles:
Traverse Town:
Traverse Town — a place where lost hearts gather when their worlds vanish. It was here our journey truly began.
At the request of Queen Minnie, I accompanied Donald and Goofy to help record our adventure as we searched for the King. Our Gummi Ship brought us to this world just as a curious blue hedgehog—Sonic, they call him—burst into the First District. He’d just escaped an ambush of Heartless in the second and Third district. Meanwhile, young Sora, cast away from his home by the darkness, awoke in an alley near the Accessory Shop—so close, and yet, our paths didn’t quite meet. Not yet.
As events unfolded, stories crisscrossed. Sonic met Cid and the brooding swordsman Leon. Sora was pulled into a confrontation, forced to prove himself when the Keyblade chose him. At the same time, Donald and Goofy rescued a two-tailed fox named Tails from the Heartless. With Aerith’s help, we began to understand the bigger picture: the Keyblade, the Heartless, and the worlds slipping into shadow.
Eventually, all four heroes united in the Second District, fending off a full-scale Heartless assault and toppling a towering Guard Armor together. After their victory, Sora and Sonic agreed to join us—Sora to find his missing friends, Sonic to recover the Chaos Emeralds, shards of the Master Emerald, and uncover the truth behind their lost worlds.
Before we departed, Tails gifted Sonic a special necklace that once belonged to his friend Chip—now upgraded to let him wield fire! And thanks to Donald, Sora’s got a Fire spell of his own… plus a perfect dodge roll from Goofy!
If this was just the beginning… I dare say we’re in for quite the adventure.
Character Profiles
Sonic the Hedgehog
Voiced by: Roger Craig Smith
The fastest thing alive and an adventurer at heart, Sonic is quick-witted, daring, and always ready to take action. With his home world of Mobius destroyed by the Heartless, the Blue Blur now teams up with Sora, Donald, and Goofy to search for his missing friends, the scattered Chaos Emeralds, and the answers they need to restore balance across the worlds.
Sonic first sped into our lives in Sonic the Hedgehog (1991) on the Sega Genesis—known as the Mega Drive in Europe—and has been blazing trails ever since.
Sora
Voiced by: Haley Joel Osment
A spirited and kind-hearted teenager, Sora was cast into an unfamiliar world when a swarm of Heartless consumed his island home. Now chosen by the Keyblade, a powerful weapon tied to the heart, he embarks on a journey to find his lost friends, Riku and Kairi, while facing the rising tide of darkness.
Though new to adventuring, Sora’s courage and optimism never waver. With Sonic, Donald, and Goofy at his side, he’s bound to grow stronger, and discover just how much a single heart can achieve.
Donald Duck
Voiced by: Tony Anselmo
The royal magician of Disney Castle, Donald is as skilled with spells as he is short-tempered and stubborn. Loyal to a fault, he set out aboard the Gummi Ship with Goofy to find the missing King. Now, Donald finds himself teamed up with Sora, the Keyblade wielder foretold in the King’s letter—and Sonic, whose world has also fallen to darkness.
Together, they journey across the worlds in search of lost friends, scattered Chaos Emeralds, and the Ansem Reports. Just don’t get on his bad side.
Donald made his animated debut in The Wise Little Hen (1934), quickly becoming one of Disney’s most iconic characters.
Goofy
Voiced by: Bill Farmer
Captain of the Royal Knights of Disney Castle, Goofy is loyal, big-hearted, and prefers solving problems with kindness rather than combat. Despite being a knight, he avoids conflict when possible—but will bravely face danger to protect his friends. He journeys alongside Donald aboard the Gummi Ship on a mission to find King Mickey.
Under the King's orders, Goofy follows Sora, the chosen Keyblade wielder, across the worlds. He also lends his shield—and his unwavering optimism—to Sonic's quest to recover the Chaos Emeralds, find his missing friends, and uncover the mystery of the Ansem Reports.
Goofy first charmed audiences in Mickey’s Revue (1932) and has been a fan favourite ever since.
Tails
Voiced by: Colleen O'Shaughnessey
A twin-tailed fox with a brilliant mind, Miles "Tails" Prower is Sonic’s loyal best friend and a mechanical genius. Though shy at first, his courage shines when it matters most. After awakening in Traverse Town’s Second District, he was rescued from a Heartless ambush by Donald and Goofy.
Now working alongside Leon, Cid, Yuffie, and Aerith in Traverse Town, Tails is using his intellect to strengthen the town’s defences, study the Gummi Ship's systems, and search for traces of the Chaos Emeralds and his lost world, Mobius.
Tails first soared into action in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992), quickly becoming one of gaming’s most beloved sidekicks.
Leon
Voiced by: David Boreanaz
A stoic swordsman who wields the iconic Gunblade with calm precision. His true name is Squall Leonhart, a former mercenary who took up arms at a young age. After failing to protect his home from the Heartless, he cast aside his old identity—choosing the name Leon as a symbol of change and resolve.
Since encountering the King, Leon has worked tirelessly to uncover the truth behind the Keyblade and the forces threatening the worlds. Though cold on the surface, his loyalty to his comrades is unwavering, and he now aids Sora and Sonic in their fight against the darkness.
Leon first drew his blade in Final Fantasy VIII, which launched on the original PlayStation in 1999.
Cid
Voiced by: Chris Edgerly
A gruff-talking engineer with a heart of gold, Cid runs the Accessory Shop in Traverse Town, lending his mechanical know-how to anyone in need. Though he's got a short fuse and a love for hot drinks and tech, Cid is one of the most reliable allies around—especially when it comes to Gummi Ship repairs and world-hopping support.
Cid first appeared in Final Fantasy VII in 1997. Now, he's traded rocket engines for Gummi Blocks, helping newcomers like Sora and Sonic stay prepped and ready for their journey across the stars.
Aerith
Voiced by: Mena Suvari
A gentle and wise woman who once lived in a world consumed by darkness. Now residing in Traverse Town, Aerith supports Leon and the others in their fight against the Heartless. Calm and nurturing, she offers guidance to newcomers like Sora and Sonic, helping them understand the dangers ahead while gently encouraging hope.
Aerith first appeared in Final Fantasy VII (1997), where her mysterious connection to the planet made her a pivotal figure and beloved by fans.
Yuffie
Voiced by: Christy Carlson Romano
A spirited ninja from a fallen world, Yuffie brings energy, agility, and a mischievous streak to Traverse Town. She works alongside Leon, Aerith, and Cid to combat the Heartless and aid newcomers like Sora and Sonic. Though playful and occasionally impulsive, her heart is firmly in the right place—especially when it comes to protecting others.
Yuffie first stole our materia back in Final Fantasy VII (1997)—and she’s been stealing scenes ever since.
Pluto
The King's faithful dog. Pluto is more than a pet. He and Mickey are bound by strong ties of loyalty. Pluto set out with the others to find his master. Will that famous nose of his lead him to Mickey?
Pluto originally appeared in "The Chain Gang" (1930).
Heartless Entries:
Shadow: Heartless that emerges from various places. They sneak up to their enemies and strike them with shard claws. They are extremely tenacious, often chasing their prey to the end.
Solider: Heartless that emerges from various places. They are brisk in their movements, and rush into their opponents. However, they are not that tenacious. They often appear in numbers, though they lack teamwork at times.
Guard Armor: Leader of the Heartless in Traverse Town. It falls apart when it receives damage, but each part attacks individually. Sora and Sonic meet Donald and Goofy for the first time just before fighting this Heartless.
Chaos Emeralds Found: 0 / 7
Master Emerald Shards Found: 0
Ansem Reports Found: 0
Sonic let out a low whistle as Jiminy snapped his journal shut.
"You sure have been busy, Jiminy," he said, impressed. "That's a lotta detail packed into that tiny book."
Jiminy straightened with pride. "Thanks, Sonic. But this is only the beginning. I can't wait to see where our journey takes us next—and record every moment."
The air around them was warm and light, but a subtle shift passed through the group.
Sora’s gaze lingered, his smile fading just slightly. His shoulders lowered, and he looked down.
Donald noticed it first. He frowned, arms folding. “Sora, remember what I said earlier,” he muttered, jabbing a finger toward the teen. “No sad faces.”
Goofy offered a gentle chuckle. “Yeah, our ship runs on happy ones, remember?”
Jiminy tilted his head. “We’ve got a long road ahead, Sora,” he said kindly, bouncing in the boy’s palm. “Positivity’s our best compass.”
Sora gave a small, guilty nod. “I know…”
Donald and Goofy exchanged a concerned glance. Jiminy, despite his pride in the journal, looked down for a moment, perhaps regretting if his words had stirred painful memories.
But it was Sonic who stepped forward.
He turned, green eyes locking onto Sora’s lowered ones. His tone was calm, but strong.
“Cheer up, pal. I know you’re missing your friends, but we’ll find them. They’ve gotta be out there somewhere.”
Sora nodded faintly. “I know they are… I just—” He hesitated. “Hearing your entries, Jiminy, it made it feel more real. That I’m not home anymore.”
Sonic stepped closer, raising a gloved hand and resting it on Sora’s shoulder, having to stretch just slightly to reach.
“Listen, buddy,” he said, voice steady. “You’ve gotta keep strong. Not just for yourself, but for Riku and Kairi. If you’re out here looking for them—then odds are? They’re out there lookin’ for you too.”
Sora met his gaze. “You think?”
“I’m sure of it.” Sonic dropped his hand and began to pace slowly, his eyes distant now, as if looking through the stars above.
“It's the same with me and my friends…”
“I’m glad I found Tails. It shows friends can be found. And I’m glad he’s safe, with the Traverse Town gang watching his back.”
Up above the Accessory Shop, Cid’s cramped workshop was buzzing. Tails stood on a metal crate, gesturing to a strange Gummi Block with his wrench as he explained something technical. Cid scratched his head, clearly impressed. Leon stood to one side, arms folded as he listened. Aerith smiled gently, while Yuffie leaned forward, eyes wide as Tails described a theory with bright excitement.
“Some friends, like yours, are still out there. Just like mine. I know they’re trying to find the rest of us.”
Knuckles stood before a massive golden gate. Above it, two towering statues of gladiators clashed with swords, locked in eternal battle. The guardian clenched his gloved fists, his expression firm.
“But I know one or two might be in danger. They’ll be fighting their own battles, but they’ll never give up. Not when it matters.”
In a wild, surreal forest filled with giant, colourful flowers, Amy Rose gritted her teeth and swung her Piko Piko hammer in a wide arc. Shadow Heartless flew like ragdolls into the underbrush, vanishing in puffs of black mist. She huffed, but her eyes burned with determination.
“Although, I think others will be safe. Maybe they're even finding their footing already.”
Big the Cat plodded gently into a quiet plaza as the warm glow of dusk settled over the town. Froggy perched on his shoulder, croaking contentedly. Walking beside him were Vanilla and Cream, with Cheese fluttered just above them. The sky shimmered in soft pink and orange hues, casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. Suddenly, the chime of a clock tower echoed through the air. The group paused and looked up as its towering form rose above the rooftops, bathed in the last light of day.
“Heck, I bet some of ‘em are already helping others, doing what they do best.”
Inside a sleek white hangar, Team Chaotix stood speaking with a woman in an orange dress and short pink hair. She pointed to a small vessel docked at the bay, her expression firm but kind. Vector and Espio nodded in thanks while Charmy darted off in excitement. The others turned just in time to see him being swarmed by a litter of Dalmatian puppies that had come tumbling out of a supply crate. Charmy’s buzzing wings fluttered as the pups climbed over him. Vector scratched his chin, Espio closed his eyes, and the woman smiled warmly at the scene.
“And maybe… just maybe, some of them are doing exactly what we’re doing. Fighting to save the day, in their own unique way.”
A swirling rift cracked open on a starlit world, spilling violet light onto a quiet hilltop. From its core stepped Silver the Hedgehog, his golden eyes sharp with purpose. He stood in silence, his fur catching the glint of the stars above.
Before him, a lone tower pierced the sky, wrapped in quiet magic.
Silver said nothing, but his eyes narrowed. Whoever—or whatever—was up there, he knew it was time to seek them out.
And he would climb, until he got his answers.
The group listened as Sonic finished, his words settling over them like sunlight after a storm. Sora's eyes lit up—faint, but real. His posture straightened, and that glimmer of determination returned to his face.
"Thanks, Sonic," Sora said, his voice steadying. "You're right. I can't keep getting down about Riku and Kairi. I know they’re out there… and I’m going to find them!"
Sonic smirked, folding his arms with that trademark confidence. "You're a good kid, Sora. We’ll find them. We’ll find everyone and make things right."
Donald gave a satisfied nod and turned towards the Gummi Ship. "Then let’s get this adventure started!"
"Come on, fellas!" Goofy hollered with a grin, already walking ahead and waving them over. "No time like the present!"
"Let’s go!" Jiminy piped up, bouncing in Sora’s hand as he tucked his journal under one arm. "Adventure awaits!"
With the stars above and new hope stirring in their hearts, the group stepped forward towards the Gummi Ship, and the journey ahead together.
Elsewhere on an Unknown World...
The massive double doors creaked open with an echoing groan.
Riku stepped into the chamber, his shoes tapping softly against the polished tile. The space before him was vast and hushed, bathed in shadows and violet glow, with gilded pillars lining the room like ancient guardians. Twin staircases swept upward, framing a throne-like gate crowned with flickering teal fire.
He moved slowly, eyes narrowed. He had no weapon—only his instincts, his fists, and the restless fire in his chest that refused to burn out.
The silver-haired boy had awoken at the bottom of a waterfall that defied gravity, its waters spiralling skyward like a broken dream. Guided by nothing but intuition and a pull he couldn’t explain, he had climbed through strange, humming lifts and passed iron gates that opened without touch.
Now, he stood at the threshold of something wrong. Ancient. Watching.
And there it was.
A red gem, glowing faintly at the room’s center. Perfectly shaped. Untouched. It pulsed with life.
He took a step toward it. Then another.
But just as he reached down—
“Step away from it.”
The voice came like a shot through the dark.
Riku straightened immediately. His heart pounded once, sharp and instinctual. He turned.
At the far edge of the room, a figure emerged.
Black fur. Crimson streaks. Eyes like bloodstone. White chest fur and jet quills fanned behind him like bladed wings. Metal cuffs gleamed at his wrists and ankles, and his air shoes clicked softly with each slow step forward.
It was Shadow the Hedgehog.
He didn’t radiate malice, he radiated power. The hedgehog was a walking weapon.
“Who are you?” Riku questioned, tone cautious.
Shadow didn’t stop. His tone was flat, edged with iron.
“It doesn’t matter. That emerald doesn’t belong to you.”
Riku glanced at it again. “Emerald?”
“It’s called a Chaos Emerald,” Shadow said, now just a few feet away. “And you have no idea what it’s capable of.”
Riku’s jaw tightened. “Then maybe you should explain.”
The hedgehog’s red eyes locked with his.
“I don’t owe you answers. Especially not to a reckless kid stumbling through things he doesn’t understand.”
Riku’s temper snapped like dry wood. “Are you with them? Those creatures? The darkness that’s eating up the worlds?”
Shadow didn’t even blink. “No.”
Riku stepped forward, defiant. “Then stop talking like I’m beneath you. I’ve seen what those things can do. I’m not just gonna stand here and let someone like you call the shots.”
“You’re in no position to do anything else,” the hedgehog said coldly.
Riku’s fists clenched. “Try me.”
A flicker of annoyance crossed Shadow's face. Barely perceptible. But it was there.
“Wrong move.”
He vanished.
In the blink of an eye—WHAM—a black and red blur cracked through the air, and Shadow reappeared behind Riku.
“Wha—?!”
Riku spun, but was too slow.
A kick slammed into his ribs with unrelenting force, launching him like a ragdoll across the chamber. He struck the ground hard, sliding backwards until a pillar abruptly stopped him. The breath ripped from his lungs in a ragged cough.
Shadow didn’t follow up.
He didn’t need to.
“He’s… fast…” Riku groaned, clutching his side. “Way too fast…”
Shadow stood exactly where he’d landed, arms at his sides, stance casual but ready. A warning in his stillness.
“Stay down,” he said. “You’ll only embarrass yourself.”
But Riku rose anyway, legs shaky beneath him, anger burning behind his eyes.
“I’m not done!” he barked. “Not until you tell me what that thing is! And who you are!”
The hedgehog tilted his head slightly.
“You’re not ready for this fight," Shadow admitted bluntly.
He turned his back without hesitation and walked calmly towards the gemstone, its red surface still glowing with quiet, contained energy.
“You don’t get to decide that!” Riku shouted, forcing one step forward. “You can’t just take it!”
Shadow didn’t answer. He knelt, picked up the Chaos Emerald, and stood. The room dimmed slightly, like the light itself recoiled from the gem’s power.
“I’ve got more important things to do,” Shadow said flatly, lifting the Chaos Emerald in his gloved hand.
“Wait—!”
“Chaos Control.”
A pulse of blue light exploded outwards—sharp, sudden.
Then… nothing.
Shadow vanished.
Space folded. Time stilled. And in the blink of an eye, the hedgehog was simply gone.
Silence consumed the castle’s grand entrance chamber once more.
Riku dropped to his knees, gasping for breath. His hands trembled against the cold, gleaming tile. Every inch of his body ached, but not as much as the hollow feeling curling in his chest.
"What was that power…?"
His fists clenched, knuckles white beneath his gloves. His teeth ground together in frustration.
"If I’d been stronger… If I had even a sliver of that strength… I could’ve stopped him."
The thought struck deep, sharp as a blade. Unwelcome. But it rooted in his heart all the same.
Far above, hidden among the shadows draping the chamber’s upper balcony, a presence stirred.
A flicker of green eyes. A quiet breath.
Maleficent.
She stepped forward soundlessly, her cloak rippling like smoke. One hand curled around her staff. Her gaze never left the boy below.
A sly smile crept across her lips.
“Such fire,” she whispered. “Such need, and already so near the edge.”
Below, Riku staggered to his feet. His body swayed unsteadily, but something inside him, something loud and relentless, kept him standing.
"I have to get stronger."
"I have to find Sora and Kairi."
"I need to understand that power."
The sting of defeat still burned in his muscles, but something darker stirred beneath it.
It whispered without words. A gravity pulling at his chest. A cold promise.
"Darkness."
He didn’t understand it yet.
But he would.
And in the shadows above, Maleficent’s grin deepened—satisfied, watching the first cracks begin to form.
Meanwhile...
A heavy silence pressed in from every direction. No stars. No sky. Just an endless black that pulsed and breathed like a living void.
Doctor Eggman continued forward, the shadowy path stretching on into an unknowable abyss
“Well, this is new,” he muttered, his voice bouncing off nothing. “Trapped in a swirling nightmare with no signal, no readings, and—” he tapped one lens of his glasses, twisting the side dial, “—absolutely nothing on the scanners. Splendid.”
He sighed, long and theatrical, before adjusting his coat and standing straighter.
“I don’t recall losing to that meddlesome hedgehog. Tactical retreat, I said. Tactical.” He jabbed a gloved finger into the air as if arguing with an unseen audience. “Then bam, I’m here. Wherever here is. Probably some broken back alley of the universe—dark, drafty, and depressingly under-decorated.”
He peered through the gloom. Shapes shifted at the edges of his vision, never fully forming. Shadows within shadows. Watching.
Eggman stiffened slightly.
“Hmph. I know something’s out there. I invented unsettling surveillance tech.”
He paused. A low, frustrated growl rumbled from the doctor as a deep frown settled across his face.
“Tch… Well? Spit it out already! Who’s lurking?! Show yourselves!”
Nothing answered.
He scoffed and began walking again. “Figures. Even the monsters of this place are shy.”
After a few steps, he slowed again, muttering to himself.
“Sonic…” His voice dropped, more thoughtful now. “I wonder where that rodent ended up? Bah, probably flattened under a pile of dark creatures. I hope.”
A beat passed.
“…Though knowing him, he’s probably found a new group of insufferably cheerful sidekicks and is already ruining someone else’s day.”
He shook his head with a scowl. “Typical.”
Eggman reached for his wrist communicator and tapped it. Once. Twice. Three times.
Nothing.
He scowled and jabbed it harder. The screen flickered briefly, let out a pitiful beep, then died again.
“No signal. Of course,” he grumbled, shaking the device strapped on his wrist. “The one time I need a reliable uplink, and the universe decides to throw a tantrum.”
He glanced around, then muttered under his breath, “My Egg Mobile’s gone too. Gone. Vanished. My finest model yet, and I don’t even get a courtesy wreckage pile to mourn over.”
His eyes narrowed. “And still no word from Orbot or Cubot…”
He paused, then scoffed.
“They’re probably bumbling around a janitor’s closet, arguing about cleaning protocols while I'm out here stranded in limbo!"
He tapped the communicator one more time, then slowly lowered it, grumbling.
“Even Metal Sonic is ghosting me…”
He stared into the void, one eye twitching behind his glasses.
“Traitors. All of them!”
He crossed his arms and turned with a huff.
But then, almost wistfully, his voice softened just slightly.
“…Still wouldn’t mind hearing Cubot’s malfunctioning babble right about now. Even Orbot’s snide commentary would be preferable to this silence.”
He glanced at the wrist communicator once more, then tucked it away under his sleeve with a sigh.
“Even Metal Sonic’s deadpan radio static would be a welcome change… At least he knew when to listen.”
For a brief moment, the darkness around him felt heavier.
Eggman shook it off, adjusting his glasses with a determined flick.
“No. No sentimentality. I’m a genius, not a babysitter. I’ll find a way out of this abyss, and when I do, they’d better be ready to reboot and report in.”
A cold breeze slid past him, though there was no wind. Just pressure. The weight of the dark.
“I don’t care where I am,” he said, his voice cutting through the darkness. “This isn’t how my story ends.”
He pointed ahead with theatrical flourish. “There has to be an exit somewhere! And when I find it? I’ll rebuild. Bigger. Smarter. With extra lasers!”
A flicker of light blinked at the edge of the horizon—so brief, he nearly missed it.
His eyes narrowed. “Oh? Now that’s interesting.”
He strode forward again, more cautiously this time. Shadows shifted once more in the periphery.
Eggman kept his chin high.
He didn’t know where he was.
He didn’t know who or what was watching.
But he knew one thing for certain.
He would not be forgotten.
Notes:
This chapter is a fun breather—and a bit of a world-building treat—using Jiminy’s journal as a framing device. It gives us a neat summary of everything that happened in Traverse Town from the gang’s various perspectives, especially Jiminy’s. From his arrival with Donald and Goofy (on Queen Minnie’s request!) to everyone finally linking up and taking down the Guard Armor, this wraps up the first arc nicely. Expect these kinds of entries to pop up from time to time, they’ll update as characters join the group, and as we find Chaos Emeralds, Master Emerald shards, and the Ansem Reports. It’s a living chronicle, after all.
Now, when Sonic talks about his friends and the story cuts to different worlds? That’s your first glimpse at where everyone ended up across the Blue Blur Saga universe:
Amy in Wonderland, hammer-swinging and full of sass? That’s very on-brand.
Knuckles turning up at Olympus Coliseum, perfect match for a brawler like him.
Team Chaotix accidentally taking on the Dalmatian rescue case.
Big, Cream, Cheese, Vanilla, and Froggy finding peace in a certain town.
Silver arriving at a certain sorceress’s tower... well, if you know, you know. If not, you’ll find out soon enough.
The only ones not mentioned are Team Dark (Rouge & Omega) and Commander Tower. But these three pop up later in the story. For now, let's keep guessing.
Also! The Riku and Shadow scene is completely new. Riku woke up in Hollow Bastion in KH FM, and Shadow got his red Chaos Emerald there in my original write up. It felt right to bring them together early here. Riku’s raw, unarmed, and not ready yet. Shadow? He’s focused, cold, and 100% about securing Chaos Emeralds. If someone’s in his way, even unintentionally, he’s not gonna hold back. These two crossing paths adds a new dimension to both their arcs, and it’ll pay off down the line.
And finally, yeah, Eggman’s little scene in the void? That’s mostly for fun. Still hasn’t bumped into anyone yet (or been noticed by the real big bad), but we’re tracking where he landed post-Mobius. Gives us some flavour, and maybe a bit of foreshadowing. He’s not gone, just… detoured.
Thanks for reading this far. And sorry if this spoiled some things for newcomers—but if anything, consider this a sneak peek of what’s coming down the road. Things are only just getting started. Stay tuned for Wonderland!
Chapter 5: Wonderland Part 1: Welcome to the Madness
Summary:
The team’s first world together takes them to a strange and chaotic place. As they navigate Wonderland, they face unexpected challenges and meet bizarre characters that leave them questioning everything. With danger lurking in every corner, they must rely on their wits—and each other—to find their way. Part 1 of 2.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
[Blast Away! - Gummi Ship I - Kingdom Hearts HD I.5 Remix starts playing]
The Gummi Ship moved swiftly through the glowing Lanes Between, leaving Traverse Town behind. Flecks of light shimmered across the cockpit windows.
Sora leaned forward in his seat, watching the world vanish behind them.
Sonic sat beside him, arms folded behind his head, a casual grin tugging at the corners of his mouth.
Donald gripped the main controls, while Goofy manned the co-pilot station, tapping a few buttons with gentle curiosity.
It wasn’t the biggest of ships but it was cosy. There was room for all four of them to sit, stretch out a little, and stash some emergency snacks Goofy had apparently hidden behind one of the panels. That discovery had brightened spirits quickly, especially for Sora and Sonic. Who said world-saving couldn't come with treats?
But despite the calm, something tugged at Sora’s thoughts. His gaze lingered on Donald, who was steering the ship like it was second nature.
“So…” Sora asked hesitantly, “how does this thing actually move? I mean, it’s all blocks, right?”
“Well, it—WAK!”
Donald’s explanation was cut short as the ship suddenly banked hard to the left—so fast that Sora was nearly thrown from his seat. Sonic jolted with a sharp yelp.
“Hey!” the hedgehog shouted, now gripping the side panel. “What the heck was that?!”
“We got company!” Goofy called out, pointing to the radar. It pulsed red in warning, blinking frantically.
Sora’s eyes widened as a spiked, obsidian-black vessel swooped past their window—a twisted Heartless emblem glowing on its hull.
“Heartless?! Out here?!” Sora yelled out in surprise.
“Yep! Looks like they ain't just on the ground,” Donald said, yanking the control stick. The Gummi Ship spiralled into a sharp turn, dodging a blast of purple energy that lanced past their tail.
Sonic’s pressed against the side window, watching the enemy ship loop back around. “Well, I guess they’re not fans of quiet rides…”
Laser fire lit the void around them like starlight gone wrong.
Donald sat in focused concentration, his eyes glued to the controls as he flipped a set of switches and nudged the throttle. With a sudden whoosh, twin plasma cannons deployed from the sides of the ship. The duck’s fingers moved like lightning across the console.
“Time for some evasive manoeuvres!”
The Gummi Ship twisted through space like a dart, narrowly weaving between black energy blasts. Sparks and debris flew as the Heartless ship gave chase, but Donald was already moving again, pulling a hard roll that sent their pursuer spiralling past in confusion.
“Wooooaaaah!” Sora cried, gripping his seat. “You sure you’re a magician?!”
“Royal magician and ace pilot!” Donald snapped proudly. “Try and keep up, Sora!”
Sonic gave a whistle. “Not bad, Feathers. Didn’t think you had it in you.”
Donald smirked under his breath, clearly enjoying the praise.
Sora’s voice piped up again, still amazed. “I’d love to learn how to fly one of these things someday…”
Goofy chuckled from the co-pilot seat. “Well, it ain’t as easy as it looks, Sora. Took me a good while just to figure out the radar system.”
“Trust me,” Sonic added, arms crossed as he leaned back in his seat, “It's best to learn after the universe isn’t falling apart. But hey—once we save the day, maybe Donald’ll give you lessons.”
Donald’s eyes didn’t leave the console, but he lifted his beak with a smug grin.
“For a price.”
“Huh? What’s that supposed to mean?!” Sora exclaimed in disbelief.
But before Donald could answer, a sharp tone rang out from the console. The Heartless ship reappeared behind them.
“Tch! Persistent, huh?” Sonic muttered.
Donald narrowed his eyes. “Not for long!”
He yanked the control stick and spun the ship in a half-loop, flipping them backward as the enemy vessel locked on for another strike. With a flick of a button, the twin plasma cannons aligned—and Donald squeezed the trigger.
“TAKE THIS! AND THAT!” he barked, voice cracking with intensity.
Twin bolts of searing light fired from the Gummi Ship's sides, spiralling through the void before colliding with the enemy's core in a dazzling explosion of purple flame and shattered debris. The Heartless ship trembled—then erupted in a final burst, disintegrating into nothing.
“BOOM! Oh-Boy!” Donald whooped, flapping his arms with glee.
"Donald that was awesome!" Sora remarked, impressed.
“Ha! Even in the vacuum of space…” Sonic said with a smirk, watching the last spark fade, “...Donald still knows how to double-tap.”
Sora blinked. “Double what now?”
“Game rule,” Sonic replied coolly, gesturing at the remains. “Never assume it’s gone till it’s really gone.”
“Told ya I was an ace pilot!” Donald said proudly, hands now back on the controls.
Goofy turned in his seat with a wide smile. “You sure showed ’em, Donald! That was amazin’!”
But just then, the radar pinged again.
"Hmmm...?"
Goofy pointed to the glowing display ahead, his eyes widening beneath his brow. “Hey fellas, looks like a new world’s approachin’!”
Sora sat up straighter at once, leaning forward in his seat behind Donald with eager eyes. From the left, Sonic shifted behind Goofy, resting one elbow against the side panel as he narrowed his eyes, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth.
The world before them slowly came into view, floating serenely in the Lanes Between. It shimmered with strange colours and curious shapes. The surface was decorated with a heart-like pattern, its borders circled with emerald-green arches. A grand castle stood proudly in the centre, its spires gleaming under the ambient light of the lanes.
Sora gasped. “Whoa…”
It was like nothing he’d ever seen, like a dream painted in colours he couldn’t name.
"That’s new,” Sonic muttered, squinting at the sight. “Looks like a candy store crashed into a castle…
Sora glanced at him with wide eyes. “Is that what a world looks like from the outside?”
Sonic gave a small shrug. “Dunno about all of ’em. I’ve only seen Mobius from space a few times, but this one? This one’s got bonkers written all over it.”
“Wait... you’ve been to space before?!” Sora asked, voice full of disbelief as he twisted in his seat.
Sonic gave a casual grin. “Let’s just say this ain’t my first rodeo in zero gravity, Sora. But those are stories for another day."
“Well,” Donald interjected from the front, his voice full of know-it-all pride, “all worlds float through the Lanes Between. Some might be like yours, Sonic—but most have their own kinda feeling.”
“Different feeling?” Sonic asked. “You mean like, no green hills, cities, or oceans?”
“Exactly,” Donald replied. “Some worlds are deserts. Some are frozen. Some… well, they don’t even follow normal rules.”
Goofy nodded. “Yep! Each world’s got its own look and feel—its own heart, you might say.”
Sora stared out through the glass, mesmerised. “It’s beautiful. I never imagined worlds looked like this from the outside.”
“Better get used to it,” Sonic replied. “Seems this universe has way more surprises than we thought."
He tilted his head as they drew closer. “Still… gotta admit, that world down there? Looks like it’s asking for a good ol’ fashioned adventure.”
Goofy chuckled at that. “Sure does, pal.”
Sonic raised a brow. “I think Tails would go nuts if he saw this place. Probably try to chart the atmosphere for research.”
Donald and Goofy shared a laugh. Sora watched the world draw nearer. He then glanced sideways at Sonic.
“I’d love to hear his stories,” Sora murmured to himself quietly.
“Hold on, I’m bringin’ us in,” Donald declared.
The Gummi Ship dipped smoothly, its engines humming as it cut through the world’s outer barrier and descended through the upper sky.
“Next stop,” Sonic quipped, leaning back. “Adventure!"
The Gummi Ship touched down at the World Gate with a soft hum.
A thick fog rolled across the landing site, swirling at their feet like mist rising off a dream. It wasn’t natural—too smooth, too deliberate. And yet, it didn’t feel hostile. Just… strange.
Jiminy stood atop a small supply crate near the cockpit, waving as the group readied to depart.
“I think I’ll stay behind for now,” he said brightly, flipping open his journal. “Someone’s got to keep watch on the ship, and I’ve got plenty to jot down.”
“Good call,” Goofy nodded, giving the cricket a salute.
Donald adjusted his sleeves. “Just don’t get too comfy!”
Jiminy chuckled. “Not a chance.”
As the group stepped down the ramp, the fog parted ahead of them—revealing a luminous spiral on the ground. Colours twisted within it like a whirlpool of starlight and stained glass. The air above it pulsed faintly, as though inviting them in.
Sora stared at the swirling spiral of colours, brow furrowed. “I guess that’s our way in, huh?”
Donald and Goofy both nodded.
“Bit different to Traverse Town,” Donald muttered, eyeing the swirling vortex with suspicion.
“But like we said, each world's a lil different,” Goofy added with a chuckle, scratching his chin.
“Who’s going in first?” Sora asked, glancing at the others.
Sonic stepped forward without hesitation. He eyed the portal for a second, then smirked and cracked his knuckles with a spark of excitement.
“Last one in’s a rotten Eggman!”
And with that, the hedgehog bolted forward and leapt straight in—vanishing with a zap of static and a faint blue trail.
“WAK!” Donald flailed in surprise.
Goofy blinked. “Sonic sure likes to leap in head first…”
“Yeah,” Sora said, looking to his two friends. “But did you hear him mention that Eggman person again…”
“It must be someone he knows,” Donald said, rubbing his beak thoughtfully.
“Maybe they’re buddies?” Goofy offered with a small shrug.
Sora tilted his head. “I dunno… it doesn’t sound very friendly.”
"I guess..." Donald replied, still thinking about it.
Sora took a breath, then smiled slightly. “Well, regardless… I don’t wanna be a rotten Eggman.”
He stepped back, broke into a sprint, and dove into the portal.
“WOAAAAH—!” his voice trailed off as he disappeared in a burst of light.
That left Donald and Goofy at the edge of the vortex, wind whirling around them.
“You first!” Donald snapped, jabbing his finger towards Goofy.
Goofy stepped back with both gloved hands raised. “Nuh-uh. You first!”
“You first!”
“Nope!”
There was a moment of stubborn silence.
Then Goofy gave a crooked shrug. “Well, if y’say so—YAHOOOO!”
He cannonballed into the spiral, arms and legs flailing.
Donald blinked once. “WAAAK! Wait for me!”
With a flustered flutter of feathers and a furious waddle-run, he leapt in after his friend—vanishing with a flash and a burst of magic sparkles.
And just like that, all four were gone—plunged headfirst into the madness that awaited beyond.
What followed was no ordinary descent…
[Welcome to Wonderland - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX Starts Playing]
The four of them were suddenly weightless, tumbling through a spiralling void that twisted the senses. Colours bled together like spilled paint, and reality itself folded into a kaleidoscope of nonsense.
Clocks the size of towers spun slowly through the air, their ticking oddly melodic. Tea tables floated past, each stacked with mismatched teacups—some upright, some upside down, others pouring invisible liquid into the air. Chandeliers swung overhead from unseen anchors, casting peculiar shadows against nothing at all.
Sora stared around him with wide, astonished eyes. “This is… crazy…”
“Guess we’re not in Kansas anymore, huh?” Sonic joked with a grin.
Donald groaned. “Must he make a joke every five seconds…?”
Goofy chuckled warmly, arms flailing slightly as he drifted past. “Well, it is kinda funny!”
Sora couldn’t help but laugh too. This was madness, but the kind that made your heart race.
The fall slowed. The world spiralled into focus. The kaleidoscope tunnel faded, and the four of them dropped onto a checkerboard floor.
Sora and Donald landed with ease, knees bent and balanced. Sonic, of course, couldn’t resist adding flair—twisting mid-air and landing in a crouch, one hand pressed to the floor like a showman sticking the landing.
Goofy, however, came down with a hearty thud and a breathless, “Oof!”
His eyes spun comically as he sat up, legs sprawled.
“Goofy, you alright?” Sora asked, a hint of a chuckle in his voice.
“I’m fine, Sora,” Goofy wheezed, adjusting his hat with a sheepish grin. “Just landed a little... off.”
“I give that crash landing a solid six outta ten,” Sonic quipped, smirking. “Points for style, though.”
Donald rolled his eyes with a chuckle and stepped in to help Goofy up. “Classic Goofy—always finding new ways to hit the ground.”
“Yup, that’s me. Ayuck!” Goofy said with a lopsided grin, brushing himself off.
Sora took his first proper look at their surroundings.
“…This place is even stranger than the fall,” he murmured, eyes wide with wonder.
They’d landed in a corridor, or something pretending to be one. The floor was like a chessboard, but warped and uneven in places, as though the tiles were in disagreement. The walls leaned and twisted, painted in faded pastels and lined with an absurd assortment of furniture: upside-down wardrobes clinging to the ceiling, grandfather clocks running backwards, and playing card chairs flattened impossibly thin.
Dozens of portraits lined the walls—some frowning, others grinning—but each seemed to shift slightly when no one was looking, as if they didn’t appreciate being stared at. One clock struck thirteen with a hollow bong, then began ticking backwards for good measure.
Then came the sound—pat-pat-pat-pat—like slippered feet scurrying frantically across polished tile.
All four turned at once.
A blur of white zipped past in a flurry of crimson fabric and soft fur, nearly toppling Donald as it brushed by.
“WAK!” the duck quacked, stumbling back with flailing arms. "Hey, watch it!"
“Huh?!” Sonic blinked, his head snapping to follow the blur. “What the, was that a small bunny in a coat?”
Sora leaned forward, eyes wide. “I didn’t even see where it came from…”
The figure was unmistakable: a White Rabbit, impeccably dressed in a red coat and round spectacles. In one trembling paw, he clutched a massive golden pocket watch, holding it as if it were the most precious thing in the world
“Oh, my fur and whiskers! I’m late, I’m late, I’m late!” he cried, panic rising in his voice. “Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear—I’m here, I should be there! I’m late! The Queen—she’ll have my head for sure!”
And with that, the White Rabbit bolted down the corridor and vanished around a sharp bend.
"Well you don't see that everyday..." Goofy said.
“Why’s he in such a hurry?” Sora asked, puzzled.
Sonic smirked. “Maybe he’s got a hot date with a carrot buffet.”
Donald crossed his arms. “He said something about being late…”
“Late to see the Queen, I think,” Goofy added thoughtfully. “Maybe we oughta follow him. Could lead us somewhere important.”
Sonic raised an eyebrow, arms folded. “What is this, some kinda storybook cliché? Follow the rabbit and get swept into a magical mess?”
He paused.
Then grinned.
“...Yeah, sounds about right..."
Sora laughed. “Well, I’m sold.”
He took off, jogging down the hallway.
“Let’s follow that rabbit!”
“Hey, Wait up!” Donald called, flapping after him.
Goofy stumbled into a run. “Don’t leave me behind, fellas!”
Sonic rolled his eyes, still grinning. “Not my first rabbit chase,” he muttered—then paused. “Well… unless you count that time I rescued Cream from Eggman back in Leaf Forest. But still!”
He laughed, shook his head, and with a streak of blue, dashed after them down the corridor.
As Sonic caught up, the corridor around them twisted like a fever dream. Tiles warped beneath their feet, doors curved into impossible shapes, and shadows spilled across the floor like ink leaking from a broken pen.
Suddenly, Black, inky forms rose from the ground with piercing yellow eyes.
“Heartless!” Donald shouted, summoning his staff in a flash.
Sonic’s bracelet flared with fiery light. “Looks like the welcoming committee’s here.”
Sora summoned his Keyblade, gripping it tight as he took a firm stance. “Alright—let’s send ’em packing!”
“Let’s show ’em what we’re made of!” Goofy hollered, charging forward with his shield raised.
The Shadows sprang forward—but the heroes didn’t back down. They rushed in to meet their attacks.
[To Our Surprise - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX starts playing]
Sora leapt forward, his Keyblade flashed as he struck a Shadow square in the face, launching it backward in a puff of black smoke. Another lunged from the side—he twisted mid-step, planted his heel, and shouted, “Fire!”
Flame burst from the tip of his Keyblade, slamming into the Heartless mid-air. The Heartless stood no chance and erupted into dark mist.
Donald pumped a fist. “You’re gettin’ the hang of it!” he shouted, swinging his staff in a wide arc. “Fire!”
A glowing fireball spiraled from the tip, crashing into a cluster of Shadows and exploding in a brilliant orange blast. Three silhouettes disintegrated on impact, leaving behind smoky smudges on the tiles.
Sonic darted past in a crimson blur, his bracelet glowing bright red. Embers crackled with every step. “Brace yourselves!” he shouted.
His Spin Dash ignited, and he launched forward like a meteor. Flames licked the ground as he tore through three Shadows in a blazing arc—each contact bursting in a satisfying whump of smoke and sparks. He landed in a crouch, skidding to a stop, red energy still pulsing around his wrist.
“This fire upgrade’s nuts,” he said with a smirk, admiring the flickering bracelet. “Tails, you genius.”
Goofy charged forward with a determined bellow, shield raised. “Take That!”
He spun, slamming the shield into one Heartless with a metallic clang, sending it flying into another. Both collided with the wall and vanished in tandem with twin bursts of darkness.
“Gawrsh,” Goofy said, catching his breath. “They just keep comin’, don’t they?”
“They’re not gonna stop till we take ‘em all down!” Sora replied, landing beside Sonic.
“Then let’s finish this!” Sonic barked, blazing forward again.
He zipped behind the final wave of Heartless in a wide arc, his flaming trail casting wild shadows on the walls. He kicked off a nearby pillar and spun midair, crashing into the enemies with a fiery somersault. They scattered like ash on the wind.
Sora swept in behind him, chaining clean Keyblade strikes until the last Shadow dissolved into smoke.
[To Our Surprise - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX stops playing. Welcome to Wonderland starts playing again].
Sora lowered his Keyblade, his breath steadying. “That was awesome.”
“Not bad for your first real spell, huh?” Donald said with a proud grin, puffing out his chest a little.
Sora smiled at the praise. “Thanks.”
“You weren’t too shabby yourself, Sonic,” Goofy added, eyeing the glow on Sonic’s bracelet.
Sonic smirked and flexed his hand, the red ember pulsing faintly. “Tails really pulled off something special with this. Kinda wish I had this fire boost back when I was chasing down Eggman.”
Sora tilted his head, curiosity sparking. “You’ve mentioned him before—Eggman, or Egghead. Who is he, exactly?”
Goofy rubbed his chin. “Gawrsh… is he a friend of yours or somethin’?”
Sonic snorted. “Friend? Not even in the weirdest alternate timeline.”
“Huh?” Donald asked in confusion. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
Sonic waved a hand like he was swatting a bad idea. “Look—Eggman’s been my arch-nemesis since forever. Picture this: evil genius with a moustache so big it deserves its own zip code. Obsessed with giant robots. Loves monologues. Wants to conquer everything. Bald. Real textbook villain stuff.”
“Really?” Sora asked, his eyes wide with genuine surprise. “He sounds kinda mean.”
“You’re jokin’, right?” Donald added, eyeing Sonic curiously.
“Oh, I wish I was,” Sonic said with a dramatic sigh, crossing his arms. “Let me put it this way... every time I try to take a break, he turns it into a boss battle with extra lasers and ego.”
“So… he’s like your enemy?” Sora asked, tilting his head.
“Bingo,” Sonic nodded. “Eggman’s been trying to one-up me since like... forever.”
Goofy leaned in, curious. “What’s he done, exactly?”
“Oh, where do I start…” Sonic sighed, now holding up one gloved finger. “First? He started by shoving tiny critters into robots and calling it innovation. Real charming.”
Second finger. “Then came the whole Death Egg phase. Giant space station shaped like his head. Subtlety? Never heard of it.”
Third finger. “After that, he tried to steal the Master Emerald. Which, side note, really upset my pal, Knuckles.”
Goofy winced. “Yikes.”
“Wait—there’s more.” Sonic lifted a fourth finger. “Then he went and released an ancient water creature named Chaos. Thought he could control it. Spoiler: he couldn’t. Chaos flooded an entire city called Station Square after turning into a giant monster.”
“Flooded?!” Sora gasped.
“Yep.” Sonic raised his thumb, making it the fifth point as his gloved hand now fanned out with all five digits extended. “Then there was that time he fired a giant space cannon at the moon—and actually blew part of it off. Just to make a dramatic threat.”
"What?!" Donald exclaimed.
Goofy’s jaw dropped. “Huh?!”
“And most recently…” Sonic lifted his other hand, holding up a sixth finger with a weary smile. “He split the entire planet into pieces. Like, cracked it apart. Why? So he could wake up an ancient being called Dark Gaia—and then use its energy to power a twisted amusement park he calls Eggmanland.”
The group stood in stunned silence.
Sora looked like someone had just dropped a moon on him. “He… he what?”
Donald’s beak opened, but no sound came out. He just flailed his arms and let out a frustrated, “WAK?!”
Goofy scratched his head, eyes wide. “Gawrsh, that’s gotta be the worst reason I ever heard for buildin’ a theme park.”
Sonic sighed, dropping his hands to his sides. “Yeah. He’s not exactly subtle. And honestly? That’s just the highlights.”
“That’s…” Sora began, unsure how to even process it.
“A lot,” Donald finished flatly.
“Yeah,” Sonic murmured, running a hand through his quills. “There’s more too. But this chapter doesn’t have enough time to go through it all.”
Donald blinked. “Chapter?”
Sora and Goofy shared a confused look at the comment.
Sonic didn’t answer—he just smirked and started walking ahead, casually brushing off the question.
“…Do you think we’ll end up with someone like that?” Sora asked, his eyes drifting down to the Keyblade in his hand. “An arch-nemesis?”
Sonic stopped.
For a moment, he didn’t speak. Then he turned slightly, green eyes shadowed but steady.
“Sadly, it comes with the job, Sora.”
He turned to face the boy fully now, his usual smirk replaced by something quieter. More honest.
“But why?” Sora asked.
“Someone out there isn’t gonna like you,” Sonic said. “Not just you, but what you stand for. The light, the hope, the fact that you’re willing to fight for others? That’s gonna scare ’em. Or tick ’em off.”
Sora frowned, eyes searching. “…Just because I want to help people?”
“Exactly,” Sonic nodded. “That’ll be enough. They’ll see your heart and decide it’s gotta be broken. Or controlled. Or erased entirely.”
Sora looked away, uncertain.
The hedgehog continued, voice calm but firm. “You’ll have one. Maybe two.”
He shrugged lightly, gaze drifting up.
“Heck. Maybe thirteen if you’re lucky.”
Sora turned back and blinked. “Thirteen?”
“Gawrsh, why so many, Sonic?” Goofy asked, tilting his head.
Sonic waved it off with a casual shrug. “Meh. First number that came to mind.”
Donald narrowed his eyes. “That sounded weirdly specific.”
The hedgehog flashed a cheeky grin as he continued. “Again, it just popped into my head.”
"Right..."
Sora looked down at the Keyblade in his hand. It felt heavier now—not just in weight, but in meaning. He wasn’t used to this… the idea that not everyone would be a friend. That some people, like this “Eggman,” would try to hurt others just because they could.
“…Then I guess I’d better be ready,” he said softly, the innocence still in his voice.
Sonic glanced back at him. His grin returned.
“That’s the spirit, kid. The world’s got some bad eggs, but trust me… you’ll crack ’em.”
Donald jabbed a finger forward. “Alright already! Enough heart-to-hearts. This place is only gettin’ weirder—and we still need to catch that rabbit!”
Sonic gave a mock salute, then stepped forward. “After you, Feathers. Let’s see where the madness takes us.”
The group followed the corridor until it ended at a plain, unremarkable wooden door.
Donald stepped up and opened it—only to find another door directly behind it.
“Huh?”
He opened the next. And then another.
“WAK!” Donald flailed, feathers puffing as yet another identical door stared back at him.
“Try again,” Sonic quipped, leaning casually against the wall with his arms crossed. “Maybe lucky number four’s got a prize.”
Donald let out a disgruntled squawk and yanked open door number four. Still another. “How many doors does one hallway need?!”
Goofy scratched his head. “Maybe it’s like a magic trick? You gotta open ’em all to win the prize!”
Sora chuckled. “This world just keeps getting stranger…”
“I’m startin’ to think this is what strange looks like,” Sonic said, watching with an amused smirk. “Still not the weirdest day I’ve had.”
Donald growled under his breath as he flung open the fifth door—
And this time, it revealed a swirling, distorted chamber beyond.
“FINALLY!”
Sonic grinned. “Nice job, Donnie. Real door-slaying skills.”
Sora and Goofy chuckled at the jab, but Donald only huffed, shooting Sonic a glare. Still, he couldn’t quite hide the slight puff of his chest—or the smug little smirk tugging at his beak.
A strange light spilled through the doorway, bending and warping like heat haze.
The group stepped forward into the space beyond.
It was like walking into a painting left out in the rain.
The walls of the new room tilted at odd angles, each one crowded with clocks of all shapes and sizes, ticking in chaotic harmony. A fireplace sat where a window should’ve been, crackling gently despite having no chimney. And in one corner, absurdly out of place, was a massive faucet jutting from the wall, as if borrowed from a kitchen that belonged to giants.
The whole place looked like someone had tried to build a normal parlour, but gave up halfway through and let a dream finish the job.
Sora looked around in awe. “Is this… someone’s living room?”
“Sure doesn’t look like any I’ve ever seen,” Sonic muttered, his voice laced with intrigue.
Suddenly, Goofy perked up, eyes widening.
“Hey, look! There goes that rabbit!” he called, pointing towards a blur of white fur darting across the far side of the room.
The White Rabbit scurried across the tiled floor, much smaller than before. In an instant, he darted through a miniature door at the base of the wall.
“He shrank?!” Sora gasped, rushing forward. He knelt in front of the tiny door. “How did he get so small?”
Suddenly, a loud yawn interrupted them.
The doorknob on the tiny door stretched and groaned. “No, you’re simply too big.”
“It talks?!” Donald quacked, stepping back in shock.
Sonic knelt beside Sora, peering at the door. “Okay, now I’ve seen everything.”
“Must you be so loud?” the doorknob grumbled, its sleepy eyes half-lidded with drowsy irritation. “I was in the middle of a perfectly pleasant sleep…”
“Good mornin’!” Goofy said brightly, giving the talking door a friendly wave.
“Good night, more like…” the doorknob muttered, its voice muffled by a long yawn.
“Hey, sleepyhead,” Sonic greeted casually. “Mind telling us what the deal is with shrinky-rabbit?”
The doorknob stirred with a long, exaggerated sigh. “He’s late. That’s all I know. And now you’ve gone and woken me up too…”
“Sorry,” Sora said quickly. “But—have you seen a girl and a boy? About my age?”
“Or a King?” Goofy added, leaning down with a hopeful look.
“Or maybe an echidna, a bat, or… a brooding version of me?” Sonic listed, ticking them off on his fingers.
Donald tilted his head. “Broodier version of you?”
“Don’t worry about it,” Sonic muttered, waving the question off before continuing. “Or a trio of detectives, or a pink hedgehog with a hammer—”
“Must you all speak at once?” the doorknob interrupted with a dramatic yawn. “I’m far too tired for interrogation.”
“Sorry,” Sora said again, fidgeting. “But… have you seen any of them?”
The doorknob’s eyelids drooped with drowsy disinterest. “Mmm… I’ve seen a girl.”
Sora’s heart skipped a beat. “You have?!”
But before he could press further, Sonic stepped into the conversation. “Wait—hold up. Human or Mobian?”
The doorknob blinked slowly. “Mobian…?”
Sonic gestured to himself with both hands. “Like me. Fast, furry, full of attitude.”
The doorknob glanced lazily at Donald and Goofy, then back at Sonic. “And them?”
Sonic gave a short shake of the head. “Nah. They're not Mobian.”
“Nope,” Donald affirmed with a firm nod.
“Not us,” Goofy chimed in helpfully.
The doorknob gave a deep, sleepy sigh. “Then human, I suppose. If it matters. The Queen might know more.”
Sora’s eyes lit up, flickering with sudden hope. “It has to be Kairi!”
But the doorknob only let out another enormous yawn, lids already drooping. “Mmm… don’t ask me. I’m terribly tired…”
“You should really cut back on the coffee,” Sonic said teasingly. “Try decaf. It helps you sleep better.”
The doorknob’s eye cracked open, drowsy and unimpressed. “De-caf…?”
“Forget it,” Sonic muttered, deadpan, then turned towards Sora. His tone softened. “Still… sounds like we might be close. One of your friends could be nearby.”
"Yeah!"
The doorknob let out a small snore, going back to sleep.
“Good night…” Goofy said politely, giving a small tip of his hat.
“No—wait!” Sora leaned closer, pressing both palms against the floor near the door. “How did the rabbit get small? How do we follow him?”
The doorknob grumbled, half-asleep. “Why don’t you try the bottle… over there?”
The four turned as one.
Sitting atop the oversized table were two tiny glass bottles. One glowed red. The other shimmered blue.
“…That’s suspicious,” Donald muttered, narrowing his eyes.
Goofy tilted his head. “Think we’re s’posed to drink one?”
Sora stepped closer, squinting at the labels. “The red one shows a tree growing taller. The blue one... shrinking.”
“So red makes us big, blue makes us small?” Goofy guessed.
Sora reached for the blue bottle without hesitation. “The doorknob said try the bottle, right?”
“You’re just gonna drink it?!” Donald asked.
“Dream logic,” Sonic muttered, watching him. “Ten-to-one odds it works.”
"I like those odds..." Goofy chuckled.
Sora grinned and drank from the blue bottle.
With a blink of light and a ripple in the air, Sora shrank. His clothes stayed perfectly fitted, but now he was barely a foot tall.
“WHOA—Sora?!” Goofy yelped, peering down at the now-miniature Keyblade wielder.
Donald snatched up the bottle from the table. “Guess I’m next!”
One swig, one flash—POOF. Donald shrunk down to Sora's size.
“Bottoms up!” Goofy said cheerfully, tipping the bottle back.
A cartoony swirl of light, and now he was small too.
Sonic picked up the bottle, eyeing the glowing liquid inside. He glanced down at his now-miniature friends, then back at the bottle.
“So… we’re just drinking mystery potions now? That’s the plan?”
He gave a half-shrug, smirk tugging at his face. “Alright. Sure. Why not.”
He took a sip.
The room stretched around him like someone zoomed out on reality. In a flash, he hit the floor with a soft bounce.
“Okay, now this is wild,” Sonic muttered, looking up at the now-mountain-sized table. “I feel like an action figure.”
“At least our clothes shrank with us." Sora stated, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.
Goofy nodded with a chuckle. “That’s a relief…”
Donald stabbed a finger towards the now-normal-sized door. “Come on—the door’s waitin’!”
But before they could take a step, the shadows peeled open—and out they came.
Heartless.
[Welcome to Wonderland stops playing. To Our Surprise starts playing].
But not like the ones they’d faced in Traverse Town. Or even in the corridor before.
They were Sipshades—Emblem Heartless that drifted like cursed crockery, possessed by leftover magic and malice. Each one bore the Heartless insignia faintly on its cracked porcelain, and their swirling insides flickered with black steam and glowing yellow eyes.
“Looks like someone spiked the tea with nightmare juice," Sonic remarked.
“We’ve gotta take ’em down!” Sora called out, Keyblade snapping into his grip.
Sonic’s bracelet pulsed bright red. Fire curled up his arms like ribbon, dancing across his gloves. He crouched low, eyes locked on the air above.
“I’m with you,” he said, embers swirling in his palm.
Goofy stepped forward, shield raised. “Let’s clear a path!”
The Sipshades shrieked, their warble like warped kettle whistles. They descended in a spiralling swarm.
Sora launched off the ground in a leap, blade spinning in an overhead arc. He slammed into one Sipshade with a burst of light, shattering it into steam. A second swooped from the side—he landed low, pivoted sharply, and cast, “Fire!”
A blaze erupted from his Keyblade, slamming into the Heartless mid-air. It popped with a screech, smoke curling into the air like burnt tea leaves.
Donald spun, ducking a saucer that grazed his hat. “Fire!” he shouted, sending a flaming burst into a nearby cluster. Two Sipshades shrieked and disintegrated mid-spin.
More came swirling down. Their porcelain cracked and jittering, steam hissing from their rims.
Sonic dashed through the chaos in a blur of red light. His bracelet flared again. “Time to turn up the heat!”
He leapt—and in mid-air, locked onto a target with a homing attack.
The hedgehog curled into a ball, flames spiralling with his spin, and smashed directly into a Sipshade. The Heartless exploded with a distorted whistle. He bounced to a second—then a third—clearing a triangle of threats in seconds before landing hard in a crouch, steam rising from his shoes.
“One-hit wonders,” he muttered, smirking.
But more floated into view.
For every one they struck down, two more appeared out of the shadows, giggling in broken harmony.
Sora parried a dive from above. “There’s too many!”
Donald gritted his beak, blasting a teapot-shaped Sipshade that spewed scalding mist. “They’re not stoppin’!”
Goofy swung his shield upward, clipping a saucer clean out of the air. He glanced around the bending ceiling, eyes wide. “You think there’s a big one hidin’ somewhere?”
“Goofy!” Donald yelled. “Don’t say that!”
“Don’t jinx it!” Sonic added, spin-kicking clean through a Sipshade mid-flight. “This world’s weird enough already!”
Another swooped in with a warped giggle, rattling like broken china.
Sonic caught it mid-jump with a flaming uppercut—porcelain cracked, and it burst into black mist.
Sora broke away from the fight, charging to the far end of the room.
“Hey! Let us through!” he shouted to the wooden door and doorknob.
He banged his fist against it. Nothing.
He kicked it. The knob snored even louder.
“Oh, come on!”
Donald flapped in frustration. “We’re stuck?!”
Sonic swung his arm, fire trailing as he slammed a Heartless into a cracked cabinet. He spun back around, stance wide. “We just have to beat the teacup horde first! You know—standard video game logic!”
He rolled his eyes. “Clear the room, unlock the door. I’ve played this level before.”
“What are you on about?!” Donald snapped, batting a saucer aside with his staff.
“I got this!” Sonic shouted, flames flaring at his feet as the air shimmered with heat. “One more attack and I’ll clear—”
“No time!” Goofy yelled, dragging Donald back as a Sipshade dive-bombed past his hat. “They’re closin’ in!”
“Seriously?!” Sonic groaned, ducking a swipe. “I just got warmed up!”
“Sonic!” Sora called sharply. "Come on!"
“Alright, alright—keep your chain on!” Sonic muttered, roundhouse kicking a Sipshade that wandered into his personal space. It spun like a frisbee and smacked against the wall with a satisfying clang.
Donald and Goofy scanned the room, searching for any means of escape.
“There!” Donald pointed.
Behind a toppled book, just at the baseboard, a narrow tunnel glowed faintly—bathed in strange, dreamlike light.
Sora’s eyes lit up, gesturing frantically to Donald's find. “Sonic! Over here!”
The hedgehog hesitated, fire still licking around his fists. For a moment, it looked like he might charge the Heartless anyway.
“Tch…” He twisted with a sharp spin kick, clearing three in one go. “Fine!”
He darted across the tiles, flaming shoes carving streaks of red through the smoke. “Next time, we finish the fight first!”
“After you, hothead,” Donald grumbled, running after him in a flustered sprint.
Sora dashed after them, Goofy bringing up the rear.
Behind them, the Sipshades cackled and spun in their twisted tea-dance of shadows and steam, their eyes flickering like candlelight in porcelain.
And the doorknob?
Still snoring, completely unfazed bu all the commotion.
Through the tunnel and out the other side, the group stumbled into daylight—blinking at the sudden shift.
It was like emerging from a dream into another.
They now stood on the edge of a vast courtyard garden, lush and vibrant. Shrubs towered around them in perfectly trimmed arches, each shaped unmistakably like hearts. The grass under their feet looked like it had been painted into place.
Sora took a step forward, his blue eyes wide with wonder. “Whoa…”
“Gawrsh… would ya look at this place?” Goofy remarked in awe.
Donald looked up at the hedges, his feathers ruffled slightly. “Is this even real…?”
Before anyone could answer, a sharp clatter broke the stillness.
The group tensed, heads snapping towards the sound.
Flanking the heart-shaped archway at the far end of the courtyard stood two guards. But these weren’t like any guards they’d seen before.
They were playing cards. Flat, upright, and eerily still—like they’d stepped straight out of a giant deck and into reality.
The one on the left bore the unmistakable markings of an Ace of Hearts. His body was crisp red and white, a pale heart-shaped face peeking out from beneath a red, upside-down heart helmet. His nose was bright red and bulbous, his tiny mouth curled into a stern frown. In his gloved hands, he held a red lance tipped with a sharp, heart-bladed spear. Every part of him—his pauldrons, boots, gloves—followed the same vivid crimson motif.
On the right stood his Ace of Spades counterpart, clad entirely in black. His spade-shaped helmet dipped forward over a pale, impassive face. The axe he carried looked heavier than him—jagged, angular, and ready to bite. His gloves and boots were darker, sleeker, and far more severe.
The two guards stood motionless. Watchful. Unnervingly silent.
“Are those… playing cards carrying weapons?” Sora asked slowly. like his brain was still trying to process it.
The guards didn’t move.
Goofy let out a low chuckle. “Guess we found the decked-out patrol.”
Donald snorted through his beak, trying to hide his laugh.
Sonic folded his arms, surveying the hedge-filled clearing. “Let me get this straight—first we fall through a hole into this world, then there’s a talking doorknob, flying haunted teacups, we shrink down in size, and now we’re being watched by literal playing cards?”
He blew out a sharp breath through his nose. “This whole place feels like a fever dream written by five different authors—on no sleep.”
“Weird place. Weird rules…” Donald muttered, arms crossed.
“Every world’s got its own way of workin’, remember,” Goofy added with a nod. “Even if it is a lil’… scrambled.”
“Weird and…” Sonic paused, tapping his chin theatrically. Then he snapped his fingers. “...‘cardio-bizarre.’”
There was an awkward silence.
Goofy tilted his head. “Huh?”
Donald blinked in confusion. “What does that even mean?!”
Sonic shrugged, grinning. “I dunno. It sounded like a pun when it left my mouth.”
“That was awful,” Donald deadpanned.
“I’m under pressure, alright?” Sonic laughed. “Y’all try doing stand-up comedy in a world where the guards are literally poker-faced.”
Goofy let out a low chuckle. “Heh… now that one I got.”
Sora giggled in spite of himself. “You’re such a dork sometimes, Sonic.”
“Correction,” Sonic said, holding up one gloved finger. “I’m a stylish dork.”
Donald gave a snort, arms crossed. “I wonder what Tails has to put up with…”
“Probably considers it character-building,” Sonic said with mock pride. “Or trauma. Could go either way.”
Ignoring the back-and-forth, Goofy wandered towards one of the tall hedge arches. He tilted his head, peering up at the heart-shaped canopy overhead.
“Gawrsh… kinda reminds me of the royal gardens back home.”
Donald scoffed. “WAK! Disney Castle’s gardens actually have taste.”
“Easy, pal,” Sonic muttered, jerking a thumb towards a looming soldier still glaring their way. “You’re one insult away from getting reshuffled.”
The Ace of Spades turned his head.
His face didn’t move. But somehow, his glare got sharper.
It was flat, cold, and unblinking. Like a guillotine made of paper and bad vibes.
Donald froze in place. That stare could slice concrete.
The duck let out a weak laugh and tugged at his collar. “Heh… j-just, uh… personal preference…”
The card said nothing. It just continued to stare.
Sonic, naturally, stepped closer.
He planted his hands on his hips and looked up at the card with a half-grin. “So… what do we call you, then? General Grumpyface? Duke of Deckhands? The Royal Flush with Feet?”
Still nothing.
The hedgehog leaned slightly to the side, whispering out of the corner of his mouth. “Strong, silent type. Deadly charisma. Bet he folds under pressure.”
Donald groaned. “Please stop…”
Sora stepped forward, his tone more earnest. “Um… excuse me—but where exactly are we?”
The Ace of Hearts, standing on the opposite side of the arch, finally spoke. His voice was stiff and hollow, like wind brushing a forgotten page.
“You stand in the Queen of Hearts’ Courtyard.”
Sonic raised an eyebrow. “Queen of Hearts, huh?"
“Hey, that must be the one the rabbit was talkin’ about!” Goofy said brightly, smacking his fist into his gloved palm as the pieces clicked together.
“Oh yeah!” Sonic snapped his fingers. He looked from one card to the other, then leaned slightly towards the red one. “You seen a twitchy rabbit sprint through here? Red coat, oversized clock, emotional stability of wet toast?”
The Ace of Hearts stared forward, unmoving.
Sora stepped up beside him. “Or a girl?"
The card didn’t blink—just slowly raised his red lance and pointed it through the heart-shaped archway.
“Through there.”
The group followed the motion, stepping closer.
Beyond the archway stretched a long path lined with vivid rose hedges, trimmed into pointed spades and hearts. A crimson carpet ran up the centre, leading to a raised dais at the far end of the courtyard. Atop it sat a very round woman in a puffed red and black dress—her cheeks nearly as red as her gown. A small, golden crown balanced precariously atop black hair. Her expression was locked somewhere between pompous pride and explosive fury.
Goofy pointed. “Hey, look! That must be the queen.”
Rows of playing-card soldiers flanked the path—red and black, Heart and Spade alike—standing to attention with spears and axes at the ready. At that moment, a familiar white blur dashed up beside the dais.
It was the White Rabbit again. He blew into a bugle with a shrill, urgent blast.
“What’s going on?” Donald asked, frowning.
Sora leaned forward, watching closely. “Some kind of… ceremony?”
“Court is now in session!” the White Rabbit bellowed.
A startled gasp rang out as a blonde girl stepped forward—shoulders tense, brows scrunched in defiance. She wore a light blue dress with puffed sleeves, a white apron tied neatly at the back, and her hands were clenched at her sides. She looked furious.
“I’m on trial?! But why?!”
Another voice rang out beside her—familiar to Sonic, and it sounded very annoyed.
“Yeah! What’s the big idea putting us on trial?! We didn’t do anything wrong!”
Sonic’s green eyes shot wide open.
“Amy?!”
He couldn’t believe it. There she was.
Amy Rose stood beside the girl, arms crossed in defiance. Her red sleeveless dress fluttered with the breeze, and the tall white-striped boots tapped with impatience. A red hairband sat over her bob-cut quills, which pointed down in soft arcs. Her white gloves were cuffed in gold rings—her so-called “weight trainers,” as she liked to call them, though Sonic had always suspected that was just flair.
"Of all the worlds for her to end up on..." Sonic groaned under his breath.
“Is she one of your friends?” Donald asked, squinting.
“Yeah… That’s Amy. And believe me,” Sonic muttered, folding his arms, “trouble follows her like a lost Chao at times.”
“And she’s on trial with that girl too,” Goofy added. “Wonder what they did…”
Sonic sighed and closed his eyes in reflection for a moment. "Amy’s a pain sometimes, sure… but even she wouldn’t cause this kind of mess without a reason."
“Guys, sorry but…” Sora stepped forward slightly, his expression full of confusion. “But... What’s a trial?”
The others turned to him, baffled.
“You’ve never heard of a trial before?” Sonic asked, raising a brow.
“No,” Sora said earnestly. “We don’t have things like that on on my islands.”
Goofy scratched his head. “Well, it’s kinda like a meetin’… to decide if someone’s guilty of a crime.”
“And if they are,” Donald added, “they get punished for it.”
Sora frowned. “So that girl and Sonic’s friend… did something wrong?”
“Maybe,” Goofy said slowly. “Or maybe they’re just bein’ blamed.”
“We’ll find out soon enough,” Sonic said, his expression tightening.
He glanced towards the dais again. Amy was now stomping her foot, pink quills bobbing with every emphatic bounce. Her voice cut through the courtyard like a whistle, full of fury and disbelief. It even made the stoic Card Soldiers shift with unease.
“This is outrageous!” she shouted. “You can’t just throw us on trial because you feel like it!”
Sonic sighed through his nose, crossing his arms. "Go ahead and shout all you want, Ames. We'll figure this out…"
“Her Majesty, the Queen of Hearts, presiding!” the White Rabbit called out after Amy's outburst.
A harsh AHEM followed.
“These girls are the culprits. There’s no doubt about it!” The Queen of Hearts bellowed. “And the reason is... because I say so, that’s why!”
“That is utterly unfair!” cried the blonde girl beside Amy, fists clenched.
“Can’t we get a lawyer or something?!” Amy added, outraged. “This breaks so many laws! What kind of court doesn’t allow legal counsel?!”
The Queen waved her fan dramatically. “Order in the court! I am the law!”
The White Rabbit, trembling beside the dais, adjusted his glasses and peered up nervously. “Well… Alice, Amy… have you anything to say in your defence?”
“Of course we do!” Alice said firmly, her tone as sharp as her gaze. “We’ve done absolutely nothing wrong!”
“You may be queen,” Amy chimed in, voice cutting, “but that doesn’t mean you get to make stuff up just because you’re in a mood!”
The White Rabbit ducked instantly, eyes scrunched shut, bracing for—
“SILENCE!!” roared the Queen. “You DARE defy me?! The court finds the defendants—guilty as charged!”
"WHAT!" Amy gasped aloud.
Sonic stared in stunned silence.
That’s it? One outburst and it’s over? This whole thing was less a trial and more a toddler's tantrum with props and hearts.
“It’s like she’s doing improv without the talent…” Sonic muttered in disbelief.
Sora stepped forward, eyes narrowing. “Hey—we should help them out.”
“Yeah,” Sonic agreed firmly. “I can’t just sit back while Amy gets thrown in a dungeon on a world where logic’s been put through a blender.”
He gestured towards the dais. “I’ve seen how weird daily life is around here. Now imagine their prison system.”
Sora blinked. “The what?”
Sonic turned with a look of pure bewilderment at the Keyblade wielder. “The slammer, Sora! Jail. The big house. The clink. The cooler. The pokey. The iron inn. The hedge hotel. The Queen’s deluxe time-out box!”
Donald squinted. “Hedge hotel?”
Goofy tilted his head. “Sounds kinda fancy…”
Sonic groaned and waved them off. “Point is, we’re not letting Amy rot in a place where ‘guilty’ means ‘I don’t like your vibe.’”
He glanced sharply at Sora. “You seriously don’t know what jail is?”
Sora opened his mouth—then paused.
“…We don’t really have that on my islands either..."
Sonic dragged a gloved hand down his face. “This kid…”
Goofy stepped forward quickly. “Yeah, but, uh… that’d be muddlin’ if we jumped in now.”
“Meddling!” Donald corrected, bouncing in irritation. “Meddling, Goofy!”
“Oh yeah! ’Cause we’re not supposed to get involved with stuff on other worlds…”
“Wait, what?” Sonic shot them a look. “That’s a thing?”
“Yes, it’s a thing!” Donald replied sternly. “It’s called the World Order, Sonic!”
He flapped his arms with increasing urgency. “We’re supposed to keep a low profile! No interfering, no revealing outside stuff, no acting like we’re from another world—!”
Sonic’s eyes had already glazed over.
He turned and walked off without uttering another word. There was no time for rules and regulations of the many worlds.
“Hey—HEY! I wasn’t done!” Donald called after him, flapping furiously once more.
“Sonic, wait!” Sora called, reaching out towards the hedgehog.
“He’s going to disrupt the World Order!” Donald shouted in panic.
“I am the World Disorder,” Sonic muttered, storming down the centre of the Queen’s courtyard without hesitation.
The card guards stiffened. Eyes turned.
The hedgehog raised his voice as he neared the dais.
“What are the charges here, anyway?” Sonic demanded as he came to a stop. He placed gloved fists on his hips, with his green eyes narrowing. “Because from where I’m standing, this whole trial smells like a pile of baloney.”
Alice turned at the voice, confused by the sudden interruption. She didn’t recognise the hedgehog.
But Amy did.
Her head shot up, anger melting into startled relief.
“Sonic?!”
Sonic gave a quick grin. “Hey there, Amy. Glad to see you’re okay. Didn’t exactly picture you as the criminal type, though.”
“This isn’t funny, Sonic!” Amy snapped, still frustrated but suddenly hopeful. “We didn’t do anything! Neither of us!”
“Yeah, I figured,” Sonic said, gaze flicking to the Queen. “This place hasn’t exactly been big on facts.. or reality.”
“Who dares to disrupt my court?” the Queen of Hearts bellowed, rising halfway from her throne, face going redder by the second. “A blue rodent who does not belong here!”
“For the record,” Sonic replied coolly, “I’m a hedgehog, lady.”
The White Rabbit’s ears flattened. “Oh no…”
“You dare correct and insult me?!” the Queen shrieked, her voice rising like steam from a boiling kettle.
Just as she raised her heart shaped gavel in fury, another voice rang out across the courtyard.
“Hold it right there!”
Sora sprinted in, Donald and Goofy right behind him.
They slid to a stop at Sonic’s side, forming a line beside the hedgehog.
“We’re not letting this continue,” Sora said firmly, gripping the hilt of his Keyblade.
Alice blinked in confusion. “Who are they?”
“No idea—but I’m glad they’re here!” Amy replied, breathless with relief.
Sonic pointed up at the dais. “So, mind explaining exactly why my friends are on trial?”
“They stand accused of assault,” the Queen declared firmly, “and attempted theft of my heart!”
“Wait a sec,” Sora cut in, frowning. “That sounds a lot like the Heartless."
“Silence!” the Queen roared, slamming her gavel down. “The evidence is clear! They are guilty! And they shall be judged!”
Sonic and Sora exchanged a glance. No words needed. The absurdity of the trial spoke for itself.
“This trial stinks,” Sonic said loudly, arms folded. “You’re just a bully with a crown.”
“Yeah,” Sora added, “these two haven’t done anything. They’re innocent.”
The Queen’s face twisted with rage. “Have you any proof?!”
Sonic threw up his hands, exasperated. “What is this, Law & Order: Wonderland Unit?! We don’t have time to go clue-hunting in your oversized garden!”
“You are trying my patience, Hedgehog,” the Queen hissed.
Sonic simply smirked. “Good. Let’s see how long it lasts.”
Alice’s shoulders were tense, but her eyes shone with quiet gratitude as she looked down at the heroes. She’d never met them before, but their presence gave her strength. Amy, by contrast, beamed from ear to ear, bouncing slightly on her heels.
“I knew you’d show up, Sonic” she whispered softly.
But the Queen had heard enough.
“Guards—lock the accused up!” she barked.
The card soldiers moved swiftly. Before Sonic or the others could react, more cards swept in around the dais, corralling Alice and Amy towards a nearby cage.
It wasn’t a cell. It was a giant birdcage.
“Let us go!” Amy shouted, banging her fists against the bars as the door slammed shut. “This is a travesty!”
“This isn’t justice!” Alice added, gripping the bars. “It’s tyranny!”
The Queen sat smugly, watching from her throne. She then turned her attention from the cage to the heroes.
“You may gather as much—or as little—evidence as you like. Return when you are ready to present it. If not…” She paused for effect, grinning. “Then off with their heads!”
Sonic stared at the birdcage. He then rubbed the back of his neck.
“Well, that escalated...”
“Guess we’re becoming detectives, fellas,” Goofy said with an awkward chuckle.
“Way to go, Sora and Sonic…” Donald grumbled, arms folded. “Now we’re stuck in a mystery!”
“Hey—it’s not my fault this world is upside down,” Sora countered, scowling.
Sonic sighed, hands on his hips. “Where are Vector, Espio, and Charmy when you need them? This is literally their job.”
The heroes moved towards the birdcage, where Alice and Amy were being held. Goofy was the first to speak up.
“Are you two okay? We’ll find the evidence for sure!” Goofy said, his usual optimism shining through.
Amy smiled at the group, clearly relieved to see friendly faces. “Thank you. This whole situation is crazy.”
Alice looked up at them, blinking in surprise. “My name is Alice. Who are you four?”
“I’m Sora,” said Sora, nodding slightly.
“I’m Goofy. And this is Donald,” Goofy added with a cheerful wave.
"I'm Sonic," the hedgehog introduced, giving a quick grin.
Sora turned to Amy. “And you're Sonic's friend, right?"
“Yes,” Amy replied, puffing out her chest proudly, “and one day, I’ll make sure Sonic marries me.”
“Marriage?” Sora asked, his head tilting.
“NO WAY!” Sonic shouted, his arms flying in front of him in a dramatic gesture.
Donald and Goofy snickered, while Sora scratched the back of his head, unsure how to react.
Amy huffed and crossed her arms. “I can dream, can’t I?”
Alice gave a small smile, shaking her head at the scene. “Pleased to meet you all.” She looked down, her voice softening. “I do wish we hadn’t met under these circumstances... I’m sorry to get you all caught up in this strange trial.”
“Yeah, sorry guys...” Amy echoed, her tone heavy with the weight of her situation.
Sora, determined to understand the situation better, stepped forward. “Why are you on trial?”
“Well, that’s what we’d like to know!” Alice exclaimed. “The moment the Queen saw our faces, she decided we’d done something wrong. But I’ve never even met her before!” She sighed, hands still gripping the bars.
“And neither have I!” Amy declared, her voice firm and indignant.
“That’s terrible!” Donald shouted, stamping his foot. “We’ll bring charges against her!”
Sonic raised a brow. “Let me guess, The World Order, right?”
“You bet ya!” Donald replied, puffing out his chest in pride.
Sonic shook his head. “But wouldn’t that go against the order? You’re getting involved and being here, muddling everything.”
“It’s meddling!” Donald snapped, throwing his arms up and down in frustration.
Goofy scratched his head, glancing at Donald with a raised eyebrow. Sonic just shrugged, clearly unamused.
“Stupid rule if you ask me...” Sonic muttered, his voice low and annoyed.
“It’s not stupid, it matters,” Donald retorted, his wings flapping in exasperation.
“Dude, come on. Be real,” Sonic said, shaking his head. “You say we can’t interfere, but then you interfere by bringing charges? The rule contradicts itself.”
Donald’s eyes widened as the realisation hit him. “I... Well, I...”
Sonic smirked. “Nice loophole there, Donnie.”
“Shut up, Sonic!” Donald barked, visibly flustered.
Alice and Amy looked at each other, both showing a confused look.
Sora, trying to steer the conversation back to something productive, asked, “So, anyway—how did you two get here?”
Alice paused for a moment, looking like she was choosing her words carefully. “Hmm… Well, I don’t really remember everything. I was sitting in a meadow with the older girls reading to me, and then I found a mysterious hole in the ground.”
“A hole?” Goofy asked, exchanging a look with Donald.
“It must be the same hole we jumped into!” Goofy said, eyes wide with recognition.
“Must be…” Sonic muttered, thinking about the weirdness that had led them here.
“When I tried to look inside, I just… tumbled in. And then I woke up here,” Alice explained, her tone uncertain.
Goofy tilted his head. “Gawrsh, it almost sounds like she came from another world…”
“That’s funny,” Donald said, looking thoughtful. “People usually can’t travel between worlds.”
“Well, why not?” Amy asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.
The others shared a glance. They wouldn’t have been able to come here without the Gummi Ship. How Alice could have made it here from a different world, they didn’t know. Maybe she had some kind of power they didn’t understand yet.
“What do you mean by another world?” Alice asked, a furrow between her brows.
Sora, Sonic, and Goofy turned to Donald. The duck seemed flustered by their staring eyes.
He shifted uneasily, not sure how to explain the concept without going into too much detail. “Err… That’s… private.”
Sonic, sensing the awkwardness, smirked and turned to Donald. “You’re slipping with your World Order baloney again, Donnie.”
“Shut up, Sonic!” Donald growled, puffing out his cheeks in frustration.
"World Order..." Alice repeated. "What is it? You keep mentioning it."
"Don't worry about that," Goofy replied, waving his hand dismissively. "Let's focus on getting you free."
Sonic snickered, but then turned his attention back to Amy. “And you arrived here after Mobius fell, right?”
“Yes,” Amy said, her expression softening a little as she looked at Sonic. “I was at Station Square, trying to fight off those dark creatures with Team Chaotix. After everything went dark, I woke up in a weird-looking woodland with huge flowers.” She paused and shook her head. “It’s all so strange…”
Sonic’s expression softened as he looked at Amy. “Well… I’m glad you’re okay.” His voice dipped just slightly, a rare trace of vulnerability in his usually sharp tone. “Tails is safe, and you’re here. I just wonder where everyone else ended up…”
“You’ll find them,” Amy said gently, the words firm with belief.
“Like how you’ll find the evidence needed to help us,” Alice added with a warm smile, gripping the bars of the cage a little less tightly now.
Sonic gave them a small grin. “Don’t worry. We’ll get you both out of this mess."
"We promise," Sora added firmly.
“Thank you,” Alice replied softly, her gratitude clear.
“All of you…” Amy added. She didn’t say anything else. She didn’t need to.
The group clustered together, heads close, ready to form a plan. But even as Sora opened his mouth to speak, Sonic’s posture shifted. He was already looking past them—towards the far archway.
“If the Queen wants evidence,” Sonic muttered, “I’ll get that evidence…”
He tugged once on his glove, fire flickering faintly in his green eyes. “…my way.”
“Wait—what does that mean?” Sora asked.
“Sonic?” Donald questioned in confusion. “You’re not—”
But Sonic had already turned, eyes focused.
“I’ll be back soon!” he called with a cocky smirk.
And then he was gone. A blue blur tore down the centre path, past the hedges and through the archway, vanishing into the strange horizon of Wonderland without hesitation.
“HEY!” Donald flapped forward. “He just ran off?! We can’t be splitting up!"
Sora took a few steps after him, then sighed. “He really doesn’t slow down, does he…”
Goofy chuckled, placing a hand behind his head. “Well… speed is his thing.”
The three of them turned back to Amy, who was watching Sonic’s vanishing point with a wistful look in her eyes.
She smiled softly. “That’s Sonic for you.”
Donald crossed his arms with a huff. “This is gonna be a thing, isn’t it.”
“Looks like it,” Sora said, half-laughing, half-exhausted. “Guess we better get used to catching up.”
“Well then,” Goofy added cheerfully, “let’s go find some evidence our way. Might be slower, but we’ll make it count.”
Donald sighed. “Yeah… and hopefully without having to dodge card soldiers or another talking doorknob…”
“C’mon,” Sora said, determination returning to his eyes. “Let’s clear Alice and Amy's names.”
With a shared nod, the three heroes turned towards the winding garden paths ahead. They moved as one, stepping carefully back into the madness.
And though Sonic was already far ahead, they carried the same goal in their hearts.
Even apart, their resolve remained unshaken. As their paths diverged, their mission united them: uncover the truth, set their friends free, and bring justice to a world built on chaos and wonder.
Notes:
Hey everyone!
So, as I got into writing this chapter, I realized this arc was going to be huge if I tried to cram everything into one chapter. I’m talking 25k–30k words, easy! So, I’ve decided to break it up into parts for better flow and pacing. Plus, it’ll give me some time to polish each part as I go, and the story will feel less rushed.
A couple of fun things I’ve changed up:
The Gummi Ship start is loosely based off the novel, but I threw in some dogfight action in the Lanes Between for a little extra flair. The battle feels much more intense and gives the gang some action to sink their teeth into early on.
I’ve included more world explanations in this version, especially how worlds look and feel when viewed from the outside. It’s more than just travelling from place to place—each world feels unique, and I wanted to explore that more.
The Heartless inspired by teacups? Those are Sinistea-inspired from Pokémon! They’re eerie, floating porcelain cups that I thought would be a good fit for Wonderland. If I get the chance, I might mock up some art for them. We’ll see! Image of this new Heartless now available if you click onto the italic Sipshade.
The big talk between Sonic and Sora about enemies and what it means to have an arch-nemesis? Yeah, it’s been tweaked, and I’ve dropped in a subtle reference to the number 13. If you know, you know...
A little change with the Lotus Garden and Cheshire Cat: Originally, the gang leaves the Bizarre Room and goes into the Lotus Garden before hitting the Queen's Courtyard. In this rewrite, we go straight to the Queen’s Courtyard and save the Lotus Garden and Cheshire Cat for Part 2. It’ll give a little more mystery to that side of Wonderland.
Sora’s reaction to trials: I kept this from the novel, where Sora’s clueless about the whole concept of trials and prison (which I thought would be fun to add). He grew up on an island without any of that, so his innocence shines through here. He’s not prepared for these kinds of issues, and that shows in his reactions.
Marriage (because why not?): The whole “No Way!” reaction is inspired by Sonic Heroes, where Amy gets a little... overzealous with her "plans" for Sonic. Couldn’t resist slipping that in! You can hear this when Team Sonic beats Team Rose in the game.
The World Order banter between Sonic and Donald shows how complex it can be. It’s got rules, but those rules can contradict themselves, especially when you throw someone like Sonic into the mix. It’s a fun back-and-forth that adds some depth to the universe while also keeping things light-hearted.
Finally, the chapter ends with Sonic dashing off, setting up a Sonic-inspired Wonderland Zone in the next chapter! Can’t wait to write that section!
I hope you’re enjoying the changes and additions so far. There are definitely some new elements compared to the original, but I think they make the story flow a lot better and add a bit more depth to Wonderland’s world.
Thanks for all the support! I’m looking forward to writing the next chapter and seeing where it goes. I’ll keep you posted on any updates!
See you in the next one.
Chapter 6: Wonderland Part 2: Collecting Evidence
Summary:
Sonic dashes through Wonderland in a full-blown platforming frenzy—looping hedges, battling teapot Heartless, and gathering evidence to save Alice and Amy. But when things go sideways, even Wonderland’s madness might not be the real threat...
Notes:
We are back again!
Sorry for the delay on releasing Part 2. But here it is.
Thank you so much for the kudos, hits, comments, and bookmarks. It has really helped and kept me motivated.
I'd love to learn more about my readers. I'm always open to comments, questions, and suggestions.
I wanted Wonderland to be in two parts, but there will be a third due to the length of this chapter. (I forgot how much was written in the original).
Anyway, hope you have been keeping well and enjoying your week?
Happy Birthday to Sega! 65 years of Sega! Without them, I'd never have got into gaming at a younger age.
In other news, I just created an account on X/Twitter to help promote my stories more. It might work, might not. Worth trying to expand out to the deeper Sonic and Kingdom Heart fans out there. Let's see how that goes. If you'd like to follow, check out my profile @FWHaz18.
I wanted to also shout out a fanfic I’ve just started reading here on AO3:
"Kingdom Hearts: Truth of the Heart" by MasterLeytrx, Sonicknight25, and TheDarkLordBubbles.
It’s an awesome AU with original elements woven into the KH universe. Just done the first 10 chapters! It's a great story with decent plot. I hope you can check out their story and show them support.That's all for now. Some Notes at the end!
Enjoy!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Wonderland Whirlwind – Stage Begins
Stage Music: Wonder World - Sonic Lost World Starts Playing
Sonic bolted forward and didn’t look back. Not at the birdcage they’d thrown Amy and Alice into. Not at the Queen ranting from her high throne. And definitely not at Donald flapping after him shouting about, “world order.”
He had one job now—find the evidence. Prove their innocence. And maybe break a few Wonderland laws about speed limits along the way.
“Alright,” he muttered. “Let’s see what secrets you’re hiding.”
The courtyard ahead was still and perfectly trimmed. Crimson rose bushes bordered the path, their petals dripping with wet red paint. A couple of buckets lay overturned in the grass, the trail of spilled colour snaking between white roses half-covered in red strokes. Somewhere, card soldiers had clearly panicked and abandoned their job halfway through.
Sonic gave a short, amused breath. “Guess paint by numbers isn’t their strong suit.”
The hedgehog dashed ahead. As he passed under a pair of twisted topiary arches shaped like hearts, the ground suddenly pulsed with a dull thrum. Darkness rippled across the lawn.
Yellow eyes blinked open in the ground. Shadow Heartless had emerged.
Sonic didn’t slow.
He surged forward as the first of the small Heartless rose to full form. Sonic homed in—fist cocked back, fire sparking. His bracelet flared as he struck the first one, sending it bursting into smoke.
Two more leapt in from the sides.
The hedgehog ducked, then backflipped onto a garden bench and launched into the air. Mid-jump, he twisted, spinning into a fiery dash that cut straight through the next two Shadows. The flames dispersed on impact, leaving only ash and echo.
But it wasn’t over.
A sharp rustle cut through the air—followed by the unmistakable clang of metal striking stone.
Three towering figures emerged from the shade beneath the queen’s rose arches.
At first glance, they resembled oversized playing cards—tall, flat, and red—but something was deeply wrong. Their surfaces warped and shimmered unnaturally, and jagged limbs unfolded from their sides, arms and legs twisting free like shadows peeling off the page. Where a face should’ve been was only a blank void—marked solely by a glowing Heartless emblem at the centre of their torsos, pulsing like a heartbeat.
These were the Scarlet Guard Heartless—a twisted mockery of Wonderland’s troops. Each one gripped a long, crimson spear, poised to strike.
Sonic slid to a stop, raising an eyebrow. “Y’know, I don’t want to tell you how to do your jobs, but guarding places usually involves having eyes.”
The card-soldiers fanned out with creaky, unnatural motion, forming a jagged wall in front of the exit. Their spears levelled in eerie unison, almost like a choreographed threat.
Sonic sighed, unimpressed. “Great. Budget cosplay rejects with pointy sticks.”
He cracked his neck and dropped into a crouch, smirking. “Alright, boys—shuffle up. Let’s see if you’re worth more than a Joker.”
He darted to the right. One Heartless jabbed, its spear cutting through empty air. Sonic wall-ran briefly along a hedge, flipped off it, and delivered a fiery spinning kick straight into the side of the leftmost soldier. The impact sent it reeling—its card surface crumpling before it burst into smoky fragments.
Another charged.
Sonic met it mid-run with a homing strike, bouncing off it and using the momentum to slam into the third. The courtyard lit up with fire as the hedgehog spiralled through all three in a blazing combo.
One by one, they scattered into darkness.
He landed, as the embers faded.
A final clang echoed across the courtyard—metal striking tile. Something had dropped near the remains of the last soldier.
Sonic jogged over.
Lying there was a twisted metal helmet, clearly from a Solider Heartless. It shimmered faintly with leftover darkness, but it was intact.
Sonic crouched down and picked it up, flipping it over in his hand.
“Well, well... what do we have here?” He smirked. “Guess even discount Heartless leave souvenirs."
He tilted the helmet up, inspecting the inner rim.
“Definitely not regulation.” He gave a low whistle, then twirled it around. “Nice little smoking gun for the Queen’s playbook. This oughta help clear Alice and Amy.”
Tucking the helmet away, Sonic turned back towards the courtyard gate.
A new path had opened—three oversized playing cards had risen from the ground, forming a narrow bridge over a trench filled with thorny vines. Each card trembled underfoot, bending slightly as though resisting his weight.
He didn’t hesitate.
Sonic dashed forward. The first card wobbled. The second dipped dangerously. The third collapsed the second he landed on it.
But it was enough.
With a final burst of speed, he launched himself off the edge and landed safely on the grass beyond.
Behind him, the playing cards fell into the trench, vanishing into the thorns with a flutter and snap.
“Nice try,” he said, brushing off his gloves.
Ahead, the hedge maze loomed.
Tall green walls twisted into spirals and dead ends. Signposts spun wildly on their hinges. The wind carried faint whispers that didn’t seem to belong to anyone.
Sonic narrowed his eyes.
“Alright. Time to hedge my bets.”
Sonic took one step into the maze—and the path immediately forked three ways. Each route curved sharply behind looming green walls trimmed with hearts, spades, and swirls. The hedge tops danced in the breeze, and the air smelled faintly of over-sweet perfume and fresh-cut grass.
A wooden signpost stood at the fork.
It spun madly in place, each arrow flicking directions with a clatter.
← That Way
→ This Way
↑ The Other Way
↓ Which Way?
Sonic gave it a flat look. “Helpful...”
He darted left, going That Way.
The path narrowed instantly, forcing him to side-step paint cans and a fallen ladder. Red and white puddles splattered the ground—evidence of hurried, chaotic gardening. Two regular card soldiers in the distance were still frantically painting a row of white roses red.
“Stop shouting, Two!” barked the first car.
“But we’ve done the wrong row again, Five!” screamed the other. “She’ll have our heads!”
As Sonic whizzed past, the sudden gust from his speed knocked over their entire paint tin. It landed upside down with a comical blorp, soaking the soldiers’ feet.
“WAAAAUGH!”
Sonic grinned, even as he drifted around the corner, red paint trailing beneath his shoes like skidding tyres.
The next stretch straightened into a race track—hedge walls on either side, low heart-themed fences, and golden speed pads lining the centre. Sonic hit the first pad, and his bracelet flared.
“Let’s kick it up.”
He shot forward, a blur of motion. The wind howled past his ears as he slammed through a trio of Shadows that rose too slowly from the ground. The fire around his shoes ignited, boosting him through the narrow tunnel at blazing speed.
Then the track ended.
A wall blocked the path—painted like a playing card, its face grinning.
He skidded to a halt.
“Seriously?”
Just as he turned to look for another route, the ground behind him began to shake.
THUD.
THUD.
The tremor grew louder.
“…Okay,” Sonic muttered, backing up.
A sudden crash erupted behind him as the hedge wall exploded outward. A giant, fuzzy shape soared through the air—bright pink, perfectly round, and humming with doom.
It landed with a heavy bounce. Once. Twice. Then it stopped—and stared.
Sonic blinked. “…Is that a supersized hedgehog?”
The massive pink ball was indeed a hedgehog. It had a nose, large paws, and big eyes. And a look in those eyes that screamed annoyance, confusion, and maybe just a touch of existential dread.
“What the heck is going on here?” Sonic asked aloud. “I’m a hedgehog. It’s a hedgehog. Shouldn’t we be on the same team?!”
The giant croquet-ball-hedgehog began to bounce in place, ready to charge.
“Ohhh, no. Nope. I’ve seen enough anime to know where this is going.”
Sonic spun around on his heel.
“Look, I don’t know what you drank in the Bizarre Room, buddy, but I am not emotionally equipped to fight my fuzzier, rounder doppelgänger today!”
The hedgehog lunged.
“AND IT’S COMING RIGHT AT ME!”
Sonic bolted, his voice echoing behind him. “WHY IS THIS PLACE SO WEIRD?!"
The imaginary camera in Sonic's head might as well have snapped behind him to third-person. The hedgehog croquet ball crashed through hedges like tissue paper, each bounce shaking the ground as it gained on him.
Sonic ran straight down a narrowing corridor. The walls closed in. A speed pad gave him a boost—but not enough. The croquet hedgehog launched into the air. Sonic barely dodged left, sliding through an archway as the beast slammed down, flattening a topiary of the Queen’s face into mulch.
Sonic shot through the arch into a curving path with three hedge ramps—he jumped, rebounded off one wall, and parkoured over a gap filled with fallen roses.
The giant hedgehog wasn’t far behind.
As Sonic landed, part of the maze reconfigured—the path ahead rose, twisted sideways, and looped over itself like a green ribbon. Signs flashed red: “COURTESY DETOUR. ENJOY YOUR TUMBLE!”
“Oh come on!”
The walls twisted around him.
He charged up a flaming spin and launched into the loop. The world tilted sideways as he tore along the wall, dodging bursts of steam from topiary pipes and leaping over narrow garden arches. Red paint from earlier still slicked part of the hedge floor, forcing Sonic to quick-step left and right to avoid wiping out.
Behind him, the hedgehog beast rolled through the same loop, snapping bushes like twigs.
Sonic barrelled forward, planting his feet and jumping across a final hedge gap. He landed in a circular clearing—dead end.
He turned.
The creature squeaked loudly and prepared to pounce.
Sonic narrowed his eyes, dropped into a spin, and focused.
The bracelet blazed.
“Let’s see how you like this!” Sonic shouted.
He shot forward with a roar—fire erupting from his form as he drilled straight through the hedge wall behind him. Thorns snapped, vines withered in the heat, and the wall exploded into flaming petals as Sonic burst through.
The croquet beast lunged too late, smashing into the scorched edge. It flailed mid-air—then tumbled backwards.
Sonic landed in a forward roll, slid across moss, and came to a stop beneath an open canopy of golden sunlight.
A new world stretched out before him.
Giant mushrooms loomed overhead. Lotus blossoms floated through the air, their petals pulsing faintly with light. Tree trunks coiled around one another like spirals, and distant laughter echoed among the branches.
The hedge maze was gone.
Sonic stood at the border of something wilder and stranger.
“Well. That was fun. Not..."
His grin widened. “Time for round two.”
And with that, he dashed into the Lotus Forest.
Sonic darted into the forest at full tilt—and nearly lost his footing.
The ground shifted underfoot from trimmed grass to soft moss, the colour bleeding from emerald to an unnatural shade of glowing lavender. Giant mushrooms sprouted between tangled roots, their caps pulsing with soft, bioluminescent light. The trees here didn’t grow straight—they spiralled, coiled, leaned in impossible directions as if the forest itself couldn’t agree on which way was up.
"Huh, reminds me of Mushroom Hill from back home."
He skidded to a stop on a curling root path, scanning the area. The air shimmered faintly, like it was thick with dream dust. Or pollen. Or madness.
“This place just keeps getting weirder…” he muttered, adjusting the fire bracelet on his wrist.
Sonic looked up, eyes widening.
Perched high above, nestled in the crown of a mushroom, was something strange.
Long and sinuous like a midnight serpent, the caterpillar Heartless known as Fumegloom coiled atop its perch—its segmented body glowing faintly with dull, corrupted runes. The rings of its form pulsed with slow, magical rhythm, like a creature caught halfway between a trance and a nightmare.
It took a puff from its crooked pipe, then exhaled a ribbon of purple smoke into the air. The haze curled unnaturally, forming strange shapes—claw like hands, empty eyes, laughter that had no sound. Sonic gagged and waved the smoke aside when it reach him.
Its yellow eyes narrowed. Its jagged grin widened ever so slightly.
The caterpillar blinked, then exhaled another thick plume—this time right towards the hedgehog.
“Okay… gross. And kinda rude.”
Sonic darted forward, bouncing across mushroom caps and lily pads like stepping stones. He launched upward from a tilted stalk, spiralling toward the creature with a homing strike.
Fumegloom barely moved—until Sonic was mid-air.
Then it reeled, stretching upright like a cobra and spat a cone of choking smoke from its hooked mouth. Sonic veered off, wall-jumping off a nearby branch and rebounding into the air with a spin.
Sonic's first homing attack cracked across the Heartless’s face, its pipe clattering briefly before snapping back to its mouth like it was part of its body.
The creature hissed, body tightening, the runes along its side glowing brighter.
Sonic struck again—this time rising with a flame-infused uppercut, powered by his bracelet.
A shriek tore from the Heartless’s throat as it lost its perch. The Fumegloom twisted once in mid-air before erupting into tendrils of smoke and inky mist.
Its twisted pipe was the last thing to vanish, twirling once in the air before disintegrating like ash.
Sonic landed with a grunt, brushing wisps of smoke from his gloves.
“Next time, stick to breath mints…”
He turned to dash off—but something dropped at his feet with a soft clink.
Sonic bent down and picked it up. An antenna—short, jagged, and definitely not from that oversized caterpillar.
“Too small. This had to come from one of the Shadows,” he muttered.
He gave it a quick twirl between his fingers, then pocketed the find.
“One step closer to clearing the Queen’s rigged trial.”
He smirked, already turning toward the next route.
“Two down,” he said. “One to go.”
He took a breath, then looked ahead.
The forest twisted again—this time into a tight path between two trees. At the end, half-buried in a mossy root, was a small wooden door with an ornate brass handle. It didn’t make sense. It was standing upright in the middle of the trail, unattached to any wall, not even facing the right way.
Sonic shrugged. “Sure. Why not.”
He dashed forward, the air shifting as he neared.
The moment his hand touched the doorknob, the world flipped upside down.
The mushroom caps rose like chandeliers. The lily pads scattered skyward. Gravity spun sideways as the door swung open, revealing—
A room that couldn’t possibly exist.
Sonic shot through the portal and vanished, the Lotus Forest falling behind like a fading dream.
Sonic tumbled out of the impossible door with a blur of colour and caught himself mid-spin—landing squarely on a table.
But this table was different.
This one stretched the length of a football pitch, crammed with teapots, cakes, saucers, jelly towers, unlit lanterns, and seats that ranged from doll-sized to absurdly tall. The air smelled of cinnamon, steam, and burning sanity.
Sonic blinked. “…Tea party, huh?”
A brass teapot to his left sputtered and poured itself.
The table jerked beneath his feet as something stirred at the far end.
He looked ahead—and saw his path.
The chairs moved on their own, scraping backwards. The plates shuffled like poker chips. Teacups clinked. And in the centre, laid out like stepping stones, a trail of saucers and teacups wobbled in mid-air.
“Oh yeah. This’ll be fun.”
He kicked off the table and hit the first saucer, bouncing from one to the next like a string of ceramic dominos. The cups tipped as he touched them, some pouring hot tea skyward in defiance of physics. One flipped beneath him mid-air, forcing him into a corkscrew spin before he landed on a jelly tower that bounced him upward.
Overhead, a string of paper lanterns stretched across the garden like a crooked rail.
Sonic grinned.
“Let’s ride.”
He homing-attacked onto the lantern wire. His shoes sparked as he ground along it, ducking under swaying lanterns and leaping over flickering lights. The sky spun around him, purple clouds rolling by like candyfloss. As he hit the end of the rail, he flipped into a dive and landed back on the main table near the head—where things had suddenly gone quiet.
Too quiet.
He landed softly on a wobbling chair, eyes scanning the table. Nothing moved.
Then a teapot rattled.
A second later, the Heartless poured out.
Shadows scrambled over the tablecloth, their claws tearing through doilies and mounds of sugar. Sipshades spun into view from nowhere, their cracked porcelain shells glowing faintly as they hovered in the air.
Sonic jumped back.
“Well, looks like the guests just arrived.”
He lunged forward in a blazing homing attack, knocking a Sipshade clean out of the air. It crashed into a pudding bowl and vanished in a puff of shadow and custard. The hedgehog chained into another spin, hitting the rest in succession—each burst apart in a flare of steam and darkness.
When Sonic landed, two Shadows leapt at him. He flipped backward mid-air, landed in a crouch, and launched into a fiery spin, scattering them across the silverware. Both dissolved into black mist. One last Shadow tried a sneak attack from behind—but Sonic sensed it, turned, and nailed it with a roundhouse kick that sent it flying.
“Too easy!”
Suddenly, a heavy clang sounded.
“What now…”
A squat, pot-bellied shape waddled into view from the head of the table—a bloated teapot with legs and a furious face. Its lid bounced like it had a temper. Steam hissed sharply from its spout.
“What is it with objects turning into Heartless? First those tea cups, now this thing…”
The Heartless—a Scaldspout—let out a roar and blasted a stream of boiling tea across the table toward Sonic.
He rolled hard to the left, diving behind a jelly tower that immediately melted into syrup.
“Hot! Hot hot hot—!”
The hedgehog zipped forward, striking its back with a flaming, charged blow. The lid popped off with a clatter, venting steam and shadows into the air—Sonic didn’t hesitate. With one final mid-air spin kick to the exposed opening, the creature shattered into shards of porcelain and darkness.
The garden settled.
Sonic stood near the centre of the table, panting slightly, flames still trailing from his shoes.
He glanced around.
Something glinted near the head seat—a teacup, split down the middle, still trembling from the shockwave. He stepped forward and picked it up.
The crack ran deep, clean through the rim. A faint dark mist hovered around the base.
“Guess you’re part of the story too.”
He pocketed the third piece of evidence.
Three down. Time to finish this.
A creaking sound caught his ear.
He turned—and saw an oversized chair at the end of the table move backwards, revealing a jack-in-the-box.
It ticked.
Once.
Twice.
Boing!—a giant grinning jester head shot up, laughing wildly as it triggered a launch pad beneath Sonic’s feet.
“Oh, come on—”
Too late.
"Woah!"
He was airborne.
The garden vanished below as Sonic flew skyward, wind tearing past his ears and quills. He somersaulted mid-air, before reality twisted again—this time mid-flight.
The sky bent sideways and the horizon folded.
And a giant picture frame floated before him like a window in mid-air.
It shimmered.
Sonic crashed through it in a burst of colour—and vanished into the next madness waiting beyond.
Sonic burst through the picture frame like a comet—only to find the laws of gravity had given up entirely.
He landed on the ceiling.
Or maybe it was a wall.
Or the side of a dresser?
The Bizarre Room twisted in every direction. Teacups floated by upside-down. A grandfather clock ticked backwards in the middle of the air. A fireplace hung sideways over a suspended bookshelf. Somewhere in the distance, the Door Knob sneezed.
Sonic caught his footing on a ceiling beam that now acted as a hallway.
“Well, this is new,” he muttered. “Physics just rage-quit.”
A table drifted past him. He homing-attacked off the leg, then another, chaining furniture like steps on a floating spiral staircase. His bracelet glowed red with heat as he ran along a twisting banister and launched himself off a floating spoon into a wall-mounted painting that blinked at him in confusion.
The floor folded ahead, forming a ramp that looped into an archway of teacups and playing cards.
He smiled. “Guess I’m still invited to this madness.”
The arch collapsed behind him the second he passed through.
The air shimmered—then split open.
Light poured in from a tear in reality.
Sonic flew through it—
And the world reassembled itself into something familiar.
He was back in the Lotus Forest again.
The hedgehog landed in a crouch, moss soft beneath his shoes. Sunlight filtered through high hedges and oversized flowers. A stream of lotus petals drifted lazily through the air, and strange birds cawed overhead in rhythms that almost sounded like laughter.
Ahead, the Goal Ring hovered in the clearing—spinning with soft pulses.
But Sonic didn’t move toward it. Because something stirred behind the flowers.
The shadows peeled back—black mist curling out like smoke from a cracked teacup.
Heartless emerged.
First Shadows, crawling over the roots like insects. Then a small wave of Sipshades, spinning like porcelain buzzsaws. And lumbering behind them all, with steam billowing from its body, came a Scaldspout—its lid cracked, its eyes glowing with unstable yellow.
Sonic smirked. “Time to wrap this up!"
The Sipshades moved first.
They spiralled in. Sonic rolled forward into a blazing spin, deflecting the first with a crash of sparks. He jumped, bouncing off one, then two, then homing-attacked a third mid-air. Each one burst into darkness, the final one exploding with a shatter of dark shards.
The Shadows then pounced.
Sonic landed hard, skidded back, then struck the ground with both fists. Fire burst outward in a circle, roasting the Heartless in place. Two staggered. One combusted into flames. The others swarmed, but Sonic moved faster.
He slid between them, flared up with energy, and streaked around the garden in a wide arc—drawing fire from his bracelet as he moved. The flames exploded around him.
“Time for a proper finale!"
His Phantom Rush activated.
His afterimages flickered—half a dozen Sonics blazing with red light. The forest lit up like a firestorm as he crashed and pummeled the Shadow Heartless into dark mist.
Sonic then dashed into the Scaldspout, striking once—twice—twelve times in a second. Each blow carved embers through the enemy’s body. It swung wildly, trying to blast him with scalding tea but he was already behind it.
The hedgehog hit a flame-laced kick, then struck down with both fists as his Phantom Rush peaked—sending the Heartless crashing into a burst of red smoke and broken shards. The darkness breaking it apart slowly as it faded away.
Sonic straightened up. The red glow around him faded.
Only the Goal Ring remained—rotating gently like an invitation.
He ran towards it and stepped through.
It spun faster, light bursting outward in a final pulse of white.
And just like that—the run was done.
[Results Theme - Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: S
“Sweet!” Sonic grinned, fists clenching in triumph.
Without skipping a beat, he kicked off the earthy ground, flipping into a tight somersault. The moss underfoot barely rustled as he landed squarely on one gloved hand in a flawless one-arm handstand. He spun a full 360, before springing high into the air in a twisting corkscrew.
He landed with a sharp bounce—like a pinball primed for round two.
Unfurling with his signature flair, Sonic struck a final pose. One hand cocked confidently on his hip, the other jabbing a thumb at himself with pure swagger.
His smirk widened beneath the canopy of swirling petals and lotus.
“Collect three weird objects, break a few laws of physics—just another Tuesday in this crazy place!”
[Welcome to Wonderland - KH HD 1.5 ReMiX starts playing]
Sonic took a slow, thorough look around the Lotus Forest once more, arms folded and one eyebrow raised.
“Man,” Sonic muttered, tilting his head, “this place seriously needs lawn maintenance. Bet the Queen's gardeners all rage-quit after day one.”
Before he could follow up with another quip, a familiar voice called out across the clearing.
“Sonic!”
He turned.
Sora came running into view with Donald and Goofy close behind.
Sonic smirked and planted a hand on his hip as they reached him.
“’Bout time you guys caught up,” he said casually. “Thought maybe Wonderland got bored and turned you into furniture or something...”
Sora let out a breathless laugh. “You okay?”
“Oh yeah,” Sonic replied, tapping the Elemental Conduit bracelet on his wrist. “Just had a quick jog through a maze, a tea party, whilst picking fights with sentient china powered by darkness. Y’know. The usual for a place like this."
"Wak!" Donald threw his arms in the air. “You can’t just go running off!”
“Oh, Donnie,” Sonic said with mock hurt. “While I was out risking my quills in this technicolor madhouse of a world, I found something. Three somethings, actually.”
He pulled out the items one by one from seemingly thin air.
“First up—this helmet. Looks like the ones those Solider Heartless wear."
He placed the piece of evidence into Sora’s hands.
“Then there’s this antenna,” Sonic continued, lifting the twitching fragment. "More than likely from the Shadow Heartless."
Finally, he held out a cracked teacup, dark mist still faintly curling around its rim.
“And last but not least—party foul from a possessed teapot at that tea party I ran into."
“Gawrsh, you really cleaned house!" said Goofy, impressed.
“That’s awesome!” Sora added, eyes wide. “The more evidence we have, the better.”
“Exactly,” Sonic nodded. “These three should poke a few holes in the Queen’s ‘off with their heads’ strategy.”
He crossed his arms. “So. What about you guys? Find anything useful?”
Donald puffed up proudly—then paused, glancing at Sora.
“Well… we didn’t find anything lying around, exactly,” Sora said, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly. “But something kind of… found me.”
“Huh?” Sonic blinked. “What do you mean?”
Goofy pointed at Sora’s arm. “Take a look at his sleeve.”
Sonic unfolded his arms and leaned in. The fabric on Sora’s shoulder was torn—slashed, as if by claws. Threads were frayed and singed.
“One of the Heartless got me when we were fighting,” Sora explained, brushing at the tear. “So, we could use that to help Alice and Amy!"
Goofy leaned closer, sniffing. “They do have a weird smell too…”
“Maybe that’ll work for evidence!” Donald added quickly.
Sonic stepped forward and exaggerated a sniff at Sora’s sleeve.
“…More like Sora needs a bath,” he quipped, teasingly.
“Hey!” Sora exclaimed, stepping back.
Donald and Goofy chuckled.
“Relax, relax,” Sonic said with amusement, throwing up his hands. “Just messing with you. But yeah—we might actually be onto something.”
“It’d be nice if there was something around here…” Donald muttered, scanning the area. “More evidence will help Alice and Amy’s case!”
“Sure would,” Sonic agreed, placing a hand on his chin while tapping his foot thoughtfully.
Suddenly, a mysterious voice echoed through the Lotus Forest.
“Poor Amy and Alice. Soon to lose their heads, and they are not guilty of a thing…”
“WAK!” Donald squawked.
“Who said that?!” Sonic demanded, fists rising.
“Show yourself!” Sora shouted, summoning his Keyblade.
“Th-th-th-there!” Donald stammered, pointing with a trembling finger.
Hovering in mid-air was a grinning, disembodied cat’s head—striped, smirking, and very much watching them.
Goofy yelped and ducked behind Sora, shield raised.
Sonic clenched both fists. “I swear, if this is another Heartless…”
“Who are you?!” Sora called out.
The floating head drifted gently to the ground.
“Who, indeed?” it echoed, as if amused by the question.
Moments later, a plump, striped body faded into view—balancing atop the rolling head like a carnival act.
The group looked disturbed at what they were witnessing.
“Poor Alice and Amy. Soon to lose their heads, and they’ve done nothing at all…”
“Yeah, you've already said that!” Sonic snapped. “Start making sense, Cat!”
The body settled, and the head floated up to connect properly. The full figure now perched atop a lily pad, grinning like a spectre of madness.
“The Cheshire Cat has all the answers… but doesn’t always tell,” he purred.
“If you know who the culprit is, tell us!” Sora said firmly.
“Like I said…” The grin widened. “I don’t always tell.”
“Rude!” Donald moaned, feathers fluffed.
“I say he’s trouble,” Sonic muttered.
The cat only chuckled. “The answer, the culprit… all lie in darkness.”
Then, with a shimmer, he vanished.
“Wait!” Sora called. “If we can’t find the real culprit, we can’t save Alice or Amy!”
The cat’s voice echoed through the trees—mocking, untraceable. “They’ve already left the forest. I won’t tell you which way. But even I don’t know whether there might be anyone else who does…”
Sonic dropped his fists and groaned. “Helpful…”
“Should we even trust him…?” Donald asked uneasily.
Before anyone could answer—POOF!—the Cheshire Cat reappeared right in front of Donald’s face.
“WAAAK!”
“Seriously, Cat, you’re starting to grind my gears!” Sonic snapped.
“Oh, hedgehog,” the Cheshire Cat said, tail swaying lazily, “I grind many gears. But perhaps it is your gears that grind you. After all—what is impatience, if not time begging to be noticed?”
Sonic blinked. “…What?”
“Or is it your expectation of answers that frustrates you more than the lack of them? After all, the answer might be right where you aren’t looking… or never was.”
Sonic stared, eyes squinting. His expression showing confusion. “I—wait—are you saying—what does that even mean?!”
“Precisely.” The Cat’s grin widened, upside down this time. “You’re catching on.”
Sonic made a noise somewhere between a growl and a groan. “My brain just did a backflip...”
The Cat grinned wider, leaving Sonic visibly baffled. He turned his attention to Sora. “To trust or not to trust? I trust you’ll decide!”
And just like that—he vanished again.
“I guess we keep moving,” Sora said, stepping forward.
“Do you believe that cat, Sora?” Goofy asked.
“I think we’ve got to,” Sora replied. “There’s no other lead.”
“That feline is literally a mind-blower,” Sonic muttered, rubbing his temples. “But Sora's right, we don’t have a choice…”
“We better get going then,” Goofy added. “Time ain’t on our side, fellas!”
Donald nodded and looked around again, feathers still bristling.
“So… uh… which way is through the forest?”
“Hm… let’s try that way,” Sora suggested, pointing towards a trail flanked by tall mushrooms and winding roots.
“Lead the way, dude,” Sonic said with a thumbs-up.
The four of them moved deeper into the forest—but before they got far, the ground rippled with black mist. Yellow eyes blinked open.
“Uh-oh,” Goofy muttered. “We’ve got company.”
Shadows rose all around them.
[Welcome to Wonderland - KH HD 1.5 ReMiX stops playing. To Our Suprise starts playing]
“Whoa!” Sonic called out, coming to a stop. “Guess we got some fighting to do!"
“Gawrsh, these things are followin’ us everywhere…” Goofy remarked, tightening his grip on his shield.
“Of course they are!” Donald shouted, casting a spark of fire magic. “Remember, they follow the Keyblade wielder—and that’s Sora!”
Sora slashed through one Shadow, but his expression darkened.
“…Guys. I’m sorry.”
Donald blinked mid-spell. “What for?!”
Sora turned away slightly, eyes low. “If they weren’t following me… you wouldn’t be in danger.”
“Aw, don’t feel bad, pal,” said Goofy, blocking a claw swipe with his shield. “We serve the king—and he sent us to find the key. That means we’re stickin’ with you, no matter what!”
“But…” Sora hesitated, tightening his grip on his Keyblade.
"So if the king hadn’t sent them… they wouldn’t be with me at all?"
It was a heavy thought. They’d only been together a short time—but even so, he’d grown to like them. Sonic's bravado, Donald’s bluster, Goofy’s calm. They were fun to be around.
Not like Kairi and Riku... but still.
His eyes flicked to Sonic—who darted past in a fiery spin, destroying two Shadows.
“You’re thinking too much,” Sonic called out, moving beside him. “That ain't healthy in a place like this.”
“Huh?”
“You’ve got friends, Sora. That means you don’t have to do everything alone.” Sonic grinned, then dashed forward to intercept another wave of Shadows. “So stop beating yourself up and swing that Keyblade already!”
“Right…” Sora nodded, just as a Shadow lunged.
He was too slow.
“Ack—!”
The Heartless struck his side, and he stumbled back, wincing.
“Sora!” Goofy rushed to him and tossed a potion. The healing light washed over his wounds.
“Thanks, Goofy,” he said, smiling weakly.
“It’s not a good idea to be spacin’ out in battle!” Goofy chuckled, already running to help Donald, who was attacking a trio of Heartless with a fiery Fire spell.
Sora stood up, shaking it off.
He looked towards Sonic again—who gave him a quick thumbs-up while grinding along a tree branch like a rail before launching into a mid-air flame dash, striking down more Heartless.
Sora’s resolve returned. “Alright. Let’s finish this!”
He rushed back into the fight, striking forward with renewed focus.
Together, the four of them cleared the clearing—one Shadow at a time.
Sora slashed, Sonic Spin Dashed, Goofy clobbered, and Donald brought the heat. All four of them managed to get the Heartless number down, with the rest retreating for now.
[To Our Suprise stops playing. Welcome to Wonderland - KH HD 1.5 ReMiX starts playing again].
Sonic dusted his gloves off. "Yeah, they'd better run."
"Good work everyone," Goofy said supportively.
Sora nodded, but he still felt bad for letting his guard down.
Suddenly, a smooth, quiet voice could be heard. "Thank you."
"Huh... Did one of you say something?" Sonic mused, looking to the trio.
"Not me," Goofy confirmed.
"Nu-ah," Donald shook his head.
"Nope," Sora added.
Then the voice was heard again. "Over here..."
"Who is it?” Donald asked rather nicely.
The group looked and finally saw a lotus blossom above them gently swayed.
"Did that flower just speak?" Goofy mused.
"Guess so," Sonic answered. "I've seen a lot here already, and talking flowers ain't the strangest thing about this place."
“That’s right. I’m a lotus blossom!” The blossom revealed, slowly opening.
“Wooow…” the group said in unison.
A sweet fragrance filled the air. Pollen fell on their heads, but something green and shiny fell onto Donald's.
"WAK!"
It bounced off his chrome and onto the floor.
The group looked down.
"What is it?" Sora mused, intrigued.
Sonic's eyes lit up. "No way!"
"Sonic?" Goofy asked.
"You now what it is?" Donald probed.
"It's a piece of the Master Emerald," the hedgehog confirmed.
"Wow, really?" Sora remarked in suprise.
"Sure is," Sonic nodded firmly.
He looked up to the flower. "You been protecting this"?
"I have, from those dark creatures," It said softly.
"Thanks. I owe you one," Sonic replied, his tone thankful.
The hedgehog reached down and picked it up. He glanced it as he straightened.
"I remember Tails mentioning it earlier," Sora said. "Back in Traverse Town."
"Yeah, with the others," Donald added.
"Sure looks pretty," Goof said, admiring it in Sonic's gloved hand.
Sonic nodded but his face turned serious.
"What's wrong?" asked Sora.
“It means the Master Emerald’s in pieces,” Sonic said, his voice low as he turned the glowing shard over in his hand. “Probably shattered when Mobius fell.”
He exhaled. “I just hope Knuckles is okay.”
“I’m guessing you two are close?” Sora asked gently.
“‘Close’ is a stretch,” Sonic admitted, smirking faintly. “We’re friends—but we butt heads more than we shake hands.”
Donald peered at the shard. “So, is he connected to the Master Emerald?”
Sonic nodded. “He’s not just connected—he’s the Guardian of it. Last of the Echidnas. Protecting the Master Emerald on Angel Island… that’s been his purpose for as long as I’ve known him.”
Sora, Donald, and Goofy exchanged sombre looks, the weight of Mobius’s fall sinking in again.
But Sonic’s face softened into a smile.
“Don’t worry,” he said confidently. “We’ll track down the rest of the shards—and the Chaos Emeralds too. And knowing Knuckles… he’s already out there, doing the same.”
“A guardian’s duty, huh?” Goofy mused thoughtfully.
“Got that right,” Sonic replied with a nod.
The trio smiled, heartened by Sonic’s steady resolve. Even with everything shattered, he wasn’t about to slow down.
That's why they liked having the hedgehog around. Sure he cut jokes, made fun of things, and his attitude could be cocky. But his never give up mentality really shone through.
Sonic pocketed the emerald shard away and smirked. “Come on—we’ve gotta find more clues. Maybe even catch that culprit!”
Sora nodded, then looked up at the flower swaying above them.
“Hey… have you seen anyone acting strangely around here?” he asked.
“Strangely…?” the blossom repeated, its petals shifting thoughtfully.
“And no, we don't mean that weird, cryptic cat,” Sonic added flatly.
“Yeah—maybe someone bein’ all shady and suspicious,” Goofy clarified.
“Well… perhaps. That way.”
One of the lotus’s broadest petals slowly unfurled and pointed toward a nearby lily pad, elevated just slightly above the mossy floor.
“Up there?” Sonic asked, already stretching his legs.
“This should make it easier to climb,” the blossom replied gently.
As it spoke, a lotus stalk rose from the ground—lifting the lily pad up to just the right height for a smooth jump.
“Thanks!” Sora called out.
“Our pleasure,” the blossom said, before slowly closing itself again.
The group moved quickly—Sora, Donald, Goofy, and Sonic leapt onto the lily pad and from there to another slightly higher one.
Another platform bobbed above that—just barely within reach.
“Wow, that’s pretty high,” Goofy said, shielding his eyes from the light.
“We can make it!” Sora encouraged.
“Pfft. I’ve hit higher platforms than this,” Sonic added with a smirk.
They jumped, climbing from one pad to the next. The air grew cooler, and bushes lined the top platform, their branches parting slightly to reveal scattered light.
“Look there!” Donald pointed. “A hole in the bushes—it might lead somewhere!”
“Gawrsh… d’you think it’s safe?” Goofy asked, shifting his weight nervously.
“That flower didn’t seem like it’d lie,” Donald replied.
“But the Cheshire Cat might’ve,” Sonic muttered, folding his arms. “Still... I like forward better than back.”
“Well then—let’s go!” Sora said with determination.
One by one, they stepped through the opening—and suddenly found no ground beneath their feet.
“WHOA!”
They plummeted through the air, wind rushing past their faces—until...
THUD.
They landed in a strange, familiar place.
The group looked around.
“Are we… on top of the faucet in that funny room?” Donald blinked, looking around.
Just as he said, they’d somehow ended up back in the Bizarre Room, where the odd bottles and the sleepy doorknob had been.
“Wow, we sure are!” Sora said in surprise.
“Shucks… we got turned around…” Goofy sighed, his shoulders slumping.
“Hold it, Captain Goof,” Sonic said, holding out a hand. “There’s gotta be a reason we landed here.”
“You think so?” asked Goofy.
“Dude, from what I’ve seen in this world? Everything either has a reason to be… or absolutely none at all.”
“What happens if it’s the latter?” Donald asked suspiciously.
Sonic shrugged. “Guess I owe you guys a soda if I’m wrong or something.”
“Hold on!” Sora pointed suddenly. “Over there—the cupboard! I think we can reach it.”
The group turned. It was high, but not too high.
“Footprints!” Donald shouted, leaping towards the cupboard. “Great big ones! Definitely from a Heartless!”
Sora, Sonic, and Goofy quickly followed, landing beside him.
“If we take this piece off and bring it back,” Goofy said, inspecting the broken panel, “maybe we’ve got some real evidence!”
"Sounds like a good idea to me," Sonic replied with a thumbs up.
“Why, look what you’ve found,” purred a familiar voice.
"Oh great..." Sonic deadpanned, his thumbs up sagging. "He's back!"
The team turned—the Cheshire Cat now perched on the faucet above, grinning as always.
“Nice going,” he said, tail flicking.
“Now we can save Alice and Amy!” Sora grinned.
The cat rose onto his hind legs. “Don’t be so sure! They may be innocent… but what about you?”
He somersaulted lazily through the air.
“…What’s that mean?” Goofy asked.
“I won’t tell,” the cat teased, swirling through the air like mist—then disappeared again.
“This guy…” Sonic muttered, face in his hand. "I'm one way to a migraine..."
Sora tilted his head. “What was that about…?”
Goofy went back to prying the cupboard panel off. “Well, no reason to trust anything he says.”
"Agreed," Sonic said, exasperated.
“This’ll help clear Alice and Amy,” Sora said firmly, looking at Goofy tug at the panel.
“Plus what Sonic found,” Donald added. “That has to count for something!”
“And don’t forget the tear in Sora’s sleeve—and that weird smell,” Sonic added, nudging him lightly. “We’ll make sure the Queen knows you’re not the one who stinks, pal!”
“Hey!” Sora frowned—but he couldn’t help laughing as Sonic and Donald cracked up.
Goofy gave one last grunt and finally tugged the wooden panel free. He hoisted it proudly over his shoulder.
“Nice work,” Sonic said with a smirk.
“Thanks, pal!”
One by one, the four of them leapt down from the cupboard. Goofy carried the evidence like a knight parading treasure from a dragon’s hoard.
“Come on!” Donald called, motioning ahead. “Let’s get back and save Alice and Amy!”
“Right!” Sora nodded.
“Let’s roll out, Team Sonic!” Sonic grinned, pumping a fist.
Donald slowed to a stop mid-run. “Wait—Team Sonic?!”
“Yeah,” Sonic replied casually, as if it were obvious. “Sounds cool, doesn’t it?”
“I thought we were Team Sora!” Donald flapped. “He’s the Keyblade wielder!”
“I vote Team Goofy…” Goofy muttered thoughtfully, mostly to himself.
Sora laughed. “Guys, come on! We’re a team. Does it really matter who’s name is in front?”
“See?” Sonic said, winking. “Even your 'captain' gets it.”
Donald huffed. “Fine. But I’m still not calling us Team Sonic.”
“How about ‘The Key-Quill Crew’?” Goofy offered.
“Pass,” Sonic replied immediately.
“‘Fire Blitzers’?”
“No,” Donald said flatly.
“‘Speed Slash Squad’?”
“Okay that one’s not terrible,” Sonic admitted, scratching his chin.
Sora shook his head, grinning. “We’ll figure out the name after we save our friends!”
“Agreed,” Sonic nodded, now dead serious. “Let’s go give the Queen a trial she won’t forget.”
Together, the four turned towards the exit—ready to return to the Queen’s Court for the final showdown.
A little later, back in the Queen's Courtyard...
[Welcome to Wonderland stops playing]
“We’ll help you both, I promise!” Sora called out to Alice, still trapped in the birdcage alongside Amy. The Queen of Hearts glared at him from the bench.
“Thank you…” Alice said softly.
“Keep strong, Aimes,” Sonic added, voice gentler now. “We’ll get you outta this mess.”
“Thanks, Sonic. I just hope I can get off this world…” said Amy, her tone frustrated.
“Yep, we want off this crazy world too,” he nodded. “Don’t worry. We’ve got this!"
A curtain dropped over the bars as the cage was hoisted high into the air, swinging ominously above the courtroom.
"Rude!" Amy called out in annoyance.
“Court is now in session!” cried the White Rabbit. “Counsel, step forward!”
Sora stepped confidently up to the defence podium, clutching the plank with the large footprint. Sonic joined him, holding out the helmet, antenna, and damaged teacup—the spoils from his mad Wonderland run.
Donald and Goofy sat in the jury box, watching with tense expressions. The Queen of Hearts leaned forward from her bench, already scowling.
“Now, show the evidence you’ve found!” the Queen demanded, her voice sharp and imperious.
Sora stepped forward and held up the wooden plank.
Sonic casually laid out the helmet, cracked teacup, and antenna on the podium.
The Queen leaned forward, eyes narrowing.
“Hmph! That’s it?” she said flatly, unimpressed.
Sonic scoffed. “What do you mean, that’s it?”
“Compared to what I’ve gathered, this is nothing but junk!”
“Junk?!” Sora repeated, genuinely stunned.
Sonic let out a breath, eyes half-lidded in disbelief.
“Lady, I ran halfway across your cracked-out kingdom for this stuff! I’ve dealt with sentient teapots, paint-happy card soldiers, and I got chased by a giant, homicidal hedgehog!”
“You what?!” Donald squawked from the jury, nearly falling off his seat.
“You got chased by another hedgehog?” Goofy blinked. “Now that’s weird…”
Sora looked over his shoulder at Sonic, puzzled. “That… actually is kind of strange.”
“I KNOW!” Sonic shouted, throwing his arms in the air.
WHACK! The Queen of Hearts slammed her heart-shaped gavel.
“Order! Settle down, rodent!”
“Settle down?!” Sonic snapped. “You try surviving this fever dream of nightmares at Mach 1!”
He stepped forward, pointing dramatically.
“And now you’re calling my evidence junk?! After all that?!”
He shook his head with an exaggerated sigh.
“Man… this place sucks!”
The Queen of Hearts ignored his comment. “Cards! Bring forth my evidence!”
“Hold up!” Sonic interrupted swiftly, raising a gloved hand. “We’ve got more!"
“Oh?”
Sonic turned to Sora. “Your sleeve, pal. Show em."
“Right!” Sora nodded, lifting his arm to show the tear in his sleeve. “Your Majesty, this rip proves I was attacked by the real culprit. Their claws did this.”
“It matches what we found,” Sonic added, slipping into courtroom mode. “We’ve got claw marks, a helmet, a cracked teacup, a busted antenna, and a footprint. That’s not random—that’s a pattern.”
“Is that all?” the Queen sneered.
“There is a smell, too,” Sonic said, pointing to Sora. “Sora’s sleeve stinks of the culprit’s trail.”
“Guard. Smell the boy,” the Queen ordered, waving a dismissive hand.
A card soldier hesitantly stepped forward, sniffed the sleeve—and staggered back instantly.
“Ugh…!”
“That is one strong stench,” Goofy commented from the jury box, eyes watering.
“And we promise it ain’t Sora!” Donald added.
“I don’t smell!” Sora protested, insulted.
Sonic snorted, barely holding in a laugh. “No comment.”
Sora turned his head sharply and looked at Sonic with a deep scowl.
Despite the absurdity, the Queen remained unimpressed.
“These pieces of evidence are insufficient," she remarked bluntly.
“Oh, come on!” Sonic threw up his hands. His bravado shifting. “I fought my way through crazy tea parties for this!”
He turned to the soldier cards. “You guys must’ve seen weirdos causing trouble around here, right?”
The cards looked away sheepishly. Not one spoke up.
“Figures…” Sonic muttered.
Suddenly, the Queen clapped once.
On her command, the card soldiers brought out a giant, ornate box. With a dramatic flourish, they placed all the pieces of evidence inside and spun the box around behind the podium—fast.
Very fast. Too fast.
“Hey—what are you doing?!” Sora shouted.
Sonic looked annoyed. “Wait, what kind of trial is this?! I didn’t sign up for a magic show—”
He paused.
“—Then again… this place has been backwards since we got here…”
The stubborn Queen of Hearts was deaf to all protests—and even Sonic’s sarcastic comments.
“Why don’t you choose which one has the correct evidence! I’ll decide who’s guilty based on that!”
“After we went through all that trouble bringing it?!” Sonic snapped. “That’s your idea of due process?!”
“Didn’t I just say I’m allowing you to choose?” the Queen barked. “Do you dare object to the rules of my court?!”
Sonic crossed his arms. “You really love the sound of your own voice, don’t ya?”
“Sonic…” Sora whispered, trying not to get them all arrested—or worse.
The hedgehog just shook his head slowly, muttering under his breath, “Wonderland, man…”
Sighing, Sora stepped up to the podium in front of the spinning boxes. Each one now looked identical—no way to tell which held the real clue.
He stared hard, leaning in, squinting like it would magically help.
“The one on the right, Sora!” Donald shouted from the jury box.
“No way, pick the left! Definitely the left!” Goofy argued.
“I’m telling you it’s the right!” Donald barked back.
“Guys,” Sora muttered, rubbing his temple. “You’re not helping!”
The boxes spun. His friends bickered.
Then—
“JUST PICK ONE ALREADY!!” Amy shouted from the birdcage above. “This defence will not remain silent!!”
Everyone froze. Even the Queen blinked.
“…She’s got a point,” Sonic deadpanned.
Sora sighed again, then stood his Keyblade upright in front of him. He closed his eyes and let go.
The Keyblade spun once. Twice. Then tipped—and clattered to the right.
“It’s this one!”
The Queen glared. “Are you certain? No second chances!”
“I’m sure!” Sora said firmly, picking up the Keyblade and staring her down.
“Then we shall see who the real culprit is,” the Queen declared.
A card soldier stepped forward and opened the box…
A blur of black jumped out—a Heartless—and vanished into thin air.
Even the Queen blinked in disbelief. “What in the world was that?!”
“There’s your evidence!” Sonic shouted, pointing. “Alice is innocent! Amy too!”
“Yeah! That’s right!” Goofy and Donald cheered.
“Rrrrgh… SILENCE!” the Queen of Hearts bellowed. “I am the law here! Article Twenty-Nine: Anyone who defies the Queen… is GUILTY!”
"That's crazy!" Donald shouted out.
But before she could slam her gavel again—
“Well, Article Nineteen-Ninety-One, Your Highness…” Sonic interrupted smugly, “States that any monarch who shouts more than five times in a courtroom automatically forfeits the case due to excessive volume violations.”
The Queen blinked in a mixture of rage and confusion. “...What?!”
Sora looked over, puzzled. “You totally made that up, didn’t you?”
“Yes!” Sonic declared proudly. “Because half the time around here, the rules are made up anyway!”
Donald cackled. “He’s not wrong!”
"Can't argue with that..." Goofy added.
[Minor Boss - Sonic 3 and Knuckles starts playing]
The Queen slammed her heart-shaped fan on the podium with fury.
“Seize them at once!”
Card soldiers drew their spears and rushed towards the group.
“You guys help Alice and Amy!” Sora yelled as he leapt from the defendant’s stand.
“Got it!” Donald and Goofy said in unison, aiming for the cage that held Alice and Amy.
But before the first soldier reached Sora—
Sonic zipped in with a blur of blue, kicked the first card soldier straight into another, and landed with a heroic skid across the ground.
“OBJECTION!” Sonic shouted, finger pointing right at the Queen. "Hah, always wanted to say that!"
“…What?” The Queen remarked in raging bewilderment.
“You’re not just twisted, lady” Sonic said, straightening up. “You're stacked, shuffled, and completely out of your mind!”
"YOU DARE INSULT ME? GUARDS!"
Two more soldiers lunged. Sonic ducked low and flared into a fiery Spin Dash, knocking them away like bowling pins.
“This court’s a circus, and you’re the clown in charge, lady!”
The Queen growled and her face became red, but Sonic kept going.
“You wanna throw out rules just because you don’t like the answers? Sorry, your majesty. That ain’t how truth works!”
He moved to Sora’s side.
“Let’s bring this whole card tower down, partner,” Sonic said, his bracelet flashing red.
Sora grinned, Keyblade raised. “Right!”
Together they launched forward, colliding with the front line of card soldiers.
The Queen of Heart's Court Yard exploded into chaos.
“SEIZE THEM!” she roared, slamming her gavel again and again. “OFF WITH THEIR HEADS!”
“Go, go, go!” Donald cried, racing towards the tower with Goofy where Alice and Amy’s cage still hung above.
“Cards!” the Queen bellowed. “If they touch that tower, you’ll all lose your heads!”
That only made Donald and Goofy move faster.
“I got the crank!” Donald shouted, leaping up and grabbing the winch handle.
But it wouldn't budge.
“It won’t turn!” the duck grunted, yanking desperately.
“Let’s break it!” Goofy said, summoning his shield.
Donald nodded and they began smashing at the mechanism with their weapons.
Meanwhile, Sora spun mid-air, clashing with three card soldiers at once. He ducked a spear and countered with a spinning strike, knocking them back. Sonic dashed past in a flash, scattering them like playing pieces tossed to the wind.
“You sure this place has a health and safety policy?” Sonic quipped, spin-dashing into another soldier. “Because I am definitely filing a complaint!”
“Just keep them busy!” Donald shouted out, still whacking the handle.
Goofy swung his shield down hard—crack!
The winch handle snapped off.
The chain jerked, gears groaned—and the cage began to lower.
Sora saw it descending and raced toward it. He reached up, grabbing the curtain with his free hand.
“Alice! Amy!”
He yanked the curtain aside—
And froze. The cage was empty.
“…They’re gone!” he gasped, staggering back in disbelief.
[Minor Boss - Sonic 3 and Knuckles stops playing]
Sonic skidded to a halt beside him, green eyes wide. “Wait—what?!”
The duo darted around the base of the cage, scanning every angle.
“No Alice… no Amy…” Sora said.
The hedgehog’s voice dropped to a near-whisper. “A-Ames…?”
“Did they run off during the fight…?” Goofy muttered, scratching his head.
“Or maybe—maybe they were taken…” Sora clenched his free fist. “Kidnapped. By the Heartless!”
From her perch, the Queen of Hearts screamed out in fury. “You FOOLS! Find the one behind this—I don’t care how!”
She slammed her gavel with a thunderous crack. “GO!”
The card soldiers scattered like ants—no longer targeting the group, but now surging into the Lotus Forest in all directions.
“Come on!” Donald shouted, racing after them. “We gotta move!”
“Goofy, Sonic—let’s go!” Sora called, already running behind the duck.
“Right!” Goofy nodded, shield at the ready.
Together, the trio sprinted towards the treeline—vanishing into the twisting forest path.
But Sonic… didn’t move right away.
He stood rooted, his fists clenched so tightly his gloves creaked.
His breathing was shallow. The curtain fluttered above.
“She wouldn’t run,” he murmured. “Not without saying something. Not without lending us a hand.”
Wonderland’s madness never scared him.
But this? This was something else.
“Amy…” he said, quieter now. Not playful. Not sarcastic.
This world had Heartless, magic, nonsense laws—and now, something darker.
Something that had taken someone he cared about.
The Elemental Conduit flared at his wrist, small flames igniting around his gloves.
His green eyes sharpened, deadly focused.
“You picked the wrong hedgehog to mess with.”
He turned—and launched forward.
In a streak of blue and flame, Sonic vanished into the Lotus Forest, a comet of fury and speed.
“Don’t worry, Amy,” his voice echoed faintly as he disappeared. “I’ll find you.”
Notes:
Another Chapter Complete!
Part 2 of 3 for Wonderland is done!
This one took a bit of time, especially crafting the Sonic-style "running zone" with all the chaos Wonderland brings—but I really wanted to put my own twist on it. If Sonic ever had to sprint through Wonderland, this is how I imagined it. You’ll spot some nods to the classic film (like the pink hedgehog croquet ball), but I had fun supersizing that idea into a full-blown chase scene.
Creating new Heartless for this world was a blast. I think the Sipshades might be my favourite so far.
You’ll notice a few major changes from the original version of this story—especially around the evidence hunt and the Cheshire Cat’s scenes. I wanted to add a bit more flavour and unpredictability, while still keeping it true to the KH vibe.
The Team Sonic name banter is actually a running joke in the series. If you're new, you'll see this happen throughout the other stories.
Also just another Tuesday is another.
Sonic mentioning Knuckles and his backstory with him is new to this remaster.
Ace Attorney reference made... OBJECTION!
The Kingdom Hearts I novel has been a massive help in shaping these early chapters. If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend it—it’s just shy of 300 pages. Perfect for reimagining worlds like Wonderland.
As always, huge thanks to everyone supporting the story. I’d love to hear what you thought of this chapter—drop a comment and let me know your favourite moment!
Part 3 will be a smaller chapter to wrap up this world, and I’m aiming to release it mid-month—so hopefully not too long a wait this time.
Until then—thanks again, and I’ll see you in the next one!
Chapter 7: Wonderland Part 3: The Hunt for Alice and Amy
Summary:
Part 3 of the team's journey through Wonderland. Sora, Sonic, Donald, and Goofy search for Alice and Amy, leading them to the Tea Party Garden—where a chaotic battle with a towering Heartless awaits.
Notes:
And we’re back with Part 3 of Wonderland!
Hope you’ve all been enjoying the ride so far—this wraps up our time in Wonderland.
Huge thanks for all the Kudos, Bookmarks, Subscriptions, and Reviews—it seriously means a lot. We're nearly at 100 kudos, and we’re only just finishing the first world. That’s amazing. Thank you to everyone who's read, shared, and supported the journey.
Please enjoy the chapter—more notes at the end!
(Also: "Welcome to Wonderland" plays through most of this chapter to set the mood.)
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Lotus Forest
The trio of Sora, Donald, and Goofy stood quietly among the glowing petals of the Lotus Forest, their eyes darting around as if hoping Alice and Amy might step out from behind a flower or tree. But no one came.
They had all seen the birdcage rise—watched as it lifted Amy and Alice high above the Queen’s Court. But when it came back down, the cage was empty.
“It just doesn’t make any sense,” Goofy murmured, scratching his head, with his other gloved hand resting on his chin in deep thought.
“It's gotta be the Heartless,” Donald muttered, arms folded tight as his foot tapped with frustration. “They must've snatched them when we weren’t looking—probably when the cage was still up in the air.”
“I think you’re right,” Sora agreed. His hands rested firmly on his hips as his gaze swept across the mossy clearing. “Only the Heartless could pull something like that.”
Donald nodded, though even he didn’t seem satisfied with the theory.
“You think they could’ve gotten far?” Goofy asked, glancing between his friends.
The three shared a look—one of helplessness, of exasperation. They all knew how quickly the Heartless could vanish. Dip in, dip out, gone. It left behind a gnawing frustration in their chests—knowing someone had taken Amy and Alice and that they’d been too tied up in the Queen’s nonsense trial to stop it.
Sora’s heart twisted. He had only just met them—but they were kind, and strong in their own way. Now they were missing. And with Kairi and Riku still out there, it just made the weight heavier.
Just then, a blur of blue tore into the clearing.
Sonic skidded to a halt in front of them. His chest rose with every breath, and his brow was furrowed deep with worry. There was no quip on his tongue. Just a deep frown.
“Anything?” he asked, looking to his team.
“Nothing…” Sora replied, rubbing the back of his head, the guilt surfacing in his tone.
Sonic let out a deep breath through his nose and ran a hand through his quills. “You think it’s the Heartless?”
“We think so,” Donald confirmed. “They're the only ones who could’ve pulled this off while we were distracted.”
“Yeah. Especially with the cage being mid-air like that,” Goofy added.
The hedgehog’s expression eased just a little, but that frown remained. It clung to him—heavier than before. He could feel it: the weight of letting Amy down. He was supposed to have her back. But now she was missing in this bizarro nightmare of a world.
He didn’t want to admit how much it rattled him.
“Alright,” Sonic said at last, shaking himself free of the thought. “No point standing around. We need to keep moving. They need us.”
“Right,” Sora said with a firm nod.
“But where should we start?” Goofy asked, peering around the landscape again.
“What about that flower?” Donald said suddenly, pointing towards the far side of the forest. “The one that gave us the piece of the Master Emerald. It might’ve seen something else.”
“Good idea,” Sora replied, hope flickering.
Sonic was already moving, pacing ahead with determined steps. The trio followed behind, their movements quick but cautious, threading through twisted roots and soft moss.
They stopped as the familiar flower came into view—its petals already stirring, as though ready to greet them.
But instead, something else appeared.
With a flicker and shimmer of mischief, a wide grin materialised in mid-air, followed by a pair of swirling, disembodied eyes.
"WAK!"
“Oh, you again!” Sonic groaned, coming to an abrupt stop. “You really have the worst timing, you know that?”
“I don’t really like him much…” Goofy muttered behind him.
“Same,” Donald agreed.
Sonic gave a dry laugh. “If you two don’t like him, then I truly hate him.”
But Sora stepped forward cautiously. He could feel the tension rising behind him—especially from Sonic. “Have you seen Alice or Amy?”
“Alice? Amy?” the Cheshire Cat mused lazily, now fully visible. “Noooo…”
Sonic sighed and shook his head, his fists clenching. “Figures.”
“But… Shadows? Yes.”
Sora leaned forward, voice sharp with urgency. “Where? Which way?!”
The cat began to sway like a pendulum, his stripes pulsing hypnotically. “This way? That way? Whichever I say… I can only tell you lies.”
Sonic’s fist twitched.
“For the love of—” he started, catching himself mid-sentence. His jaw locked. His whole frame visibly stiffened.
It was clear—Sonic was losing patience. The usual cocky calm was gone, his temper fraying like a livewire. And for once, it wasn’t Donald being the hothead.
Goofy gently stepped up beside him. “Count to ten, Sonic,” he advised, voice low and easy. “Let us handle this troublesome feller.”
Sonic exhaled sharply and threw his hands in the air. “Fine!” he snapped, backing off. “1… 2… 3…”
As Sonic began counting away his frustrations, Sora stepped closer to the cat.
“You’re really not helping, you know that?” the boy said, his eyes narrowed.
“Up, down, left, right…” the feline said, voice sing-song and cryptic. “All mixed up, thanks to the shadows.”
Sonic’s jaw clenched harder.
“7… 8…”
“But…” the Cat added suddenly, his tone shifting ever so slightly, “step deeper into the forest… towards the garden. You might find what you seek.”
“9… wait—did he say garden?!” Sonic snapped, blinking in disbelief.
But the Cat had already begun to fade, vanishing with a swirl of purple and a final floating chuckle.
“Well, he did mention a garden,” Goofy said, hand on his chin again.
“That has to be the place I ran through earlier,” Sonic said, his tone sharpening. “The one with the lanterns and tea party stuff. It’s not far.”
He turned to the others. “Let’s move guys.”
They nodded without hesitation, letting Sonic lead the way. His pace was steady—but beneath the confident walk, Sora could feel it. A tension. The kind that didn’t come from the run, but from within.
As they walked, Sora moved a little faster to match Sonic’s stride.
“Hey, Sonic,” he said gently.
“Yeah?” the hedgehog replied, his tone quieter now.
“I’ve never seen you that annoyed before. Do you wanna talk?”
Sonic gave a small exhale through his nose—then smirked faintly. “It’s fine, Sora. This place just grinds my gears, y’know? Especially when a certain cat talks in riddles and everything's upside down.”
“But you’re worrying about Amy,” Goofy added softly from behind.
“Yeah,” Sonic admitted, his tone dropping to something more grounded. “She’s tough. But if the Heartless are behind this, then we can’t wait. We have to move fast. And Alice, too—they both need us.”
“We’ll find them,” Donald said firmly.
“Whatever it takes,” Sora agreed, smiling. “We’re in this together.”
Sonic looked at him. The boy’s face was full of sincerity. There was no fear in his eyes. Just steady, and defiant hope.
The hedgehog held onto that. Even when doubt clawed at the back of his mind, even when the weirdness of this world made him want to scream—that hope mattered.
He couldn't let anger take over. Not here. Not now. Not with a friend like Sora standing beside him.
“Thanks,” Sonic said quietly. Then louder: “Alright. Let’s get to that garden.”
And just like that, the hunt for Amy and Alice began in earnest.
A little while later...
Their journey led them deeper into the heart of the forest, where they stumbled upon the Tea Party Garden—the same one Sonic had bolted through earlier. The grand table stretched before them, adorned with delicate teapots and elegant dinnerware, while whimsical lanterns danced gracefully overhead, casting soft, ethereal light across the clearing.
At the head of the table stood a peculiar painting of the Mad Hatter and March Hare, their expressions initially somber… yet tinged with mischief, as if in on a bad joke only they could hear.
“Huh… funny,” Sonic muttered, surprise flickering across his face. He tilted his head, placing a hand on his chin. “I don’t remember seeing these pictures before.”
“Maybe you were just running too fast to see ’em?” Donald suggested, waddling up beside him.
Sonic shrugged, still studying the painting. “Maybe… All I know is, I nearly got steamed by a bunch of angry teapots.”
He turned and glanced at the others—Sora, who was examining the lavish table spread; Goofy, who was rocking a chair to test its sturdiness; and Donald, still beside him.
Just then, Sonic’s gaze landed on a crooked wooden sign planted near the head of the table. The message on it shimmered faintly, the letters swaying as if caught in an invisible breeze. The effect was subtle but strangely hypnotic—like the words were alive.
The rest of the group, seeing Sonic looking at the sigh, moved in, with Sonic reading the sign aloud:
“A very unhappy birthday. Take a seat for your present.”
Sonic crossed his arms with a scoff.
“Great. Now even the signs are messing with us,” he muttered, eyes narrowing. “I miss when furniture just stayed furniture.”
“So… we’re supposed to sit?” Sora said hesitantly, glancing around at the vacant chairs. “That’s… not suspicious at all.”
“Maybe the present’s a clue,” Goofy suggested, eyes bright with hope. “It could help us find Amy and Alice?”
“That’s actually not a bad idea,” Donald admitted, already moving towards a chair.
Sonic followed with a shrug. “Well, guess we’re pulling up a seat at the world’s weirdest tea party…”
Reluctantly, the four of them took their places around the teacup-littered table.
And immediately, things changed.
The paintings of the Mad Hatter and March Hare at the head of the table warped—their somber expressions stretching into deranged grins, as if the act of sitting had triggered their delight. Their painted eyes gleamed with knowing mischief, and the air seemed to grow warmer… heavier… sweeter.
“Did… did those paintings just move?” Goofy asked, squinting nervously.
“How bizarre…” Sora murmured, eyes never leaving the shifting canvas.
“I’ve got a bad feeling about this,” Donald muttered, feathers puffing in anxiety.
Sonic scratched his head and sighed. “Not the first time we’ve had a bad feeling in this place.” He looked around. “At least there’s no angry teapots trying to boil me this time.”
“…Yet,” Donald grumbled.
“Yeah. Yet.”
Suddenly, from the shadows above, the Cheshire Cat materialised, perching effortlessly atop an overturned lantern post like it was the most natural thing in the world.
His teeth gleamed in the strange light as his body lazily twirled midair like a ribbon on a breeze. There was something different this time, something charged.
Sonic’s expression dropped like an anchor. His voice cut through the air.
“That’s it. No more riddles. Where. Are. They?” His fists were clenched, eyes sharp. “You said follow the shadows. We followed. We sat. So unless the ‘present’ is a punch to your smug floating face—start talking.”
The Cat blinked once, slowly. Then his grin widened so far it nearly split his head.
“Prepare yourselves,” he said, voice echoing unnaturally from every direction at once. “For what lies ahead is no tea party. And if you’re not ready… well, that’s your problem.”
Donald squawked. “What lies ahead?! That’s not an answer!”
Goofy flinched. “I don’t like the sound o’ this…”
Sonic rose from his seat with a growl, temper flaring. “Enough with the mystery act already!"
The Cheshire Cat casually pointed a single claw skyward.
They all looked up. Their expressions shifting to utter confusion.
Something above was falling towards them.
With a thunderous crash, a massive figure slammed onto the middle of the table—sending teacups flying, plates spinning, and the four heroes tumbling in all directions. The table groaned and cracked beneath its weight.
A towering, gangly figure loomed before them.
It was like a marionette built by a madman. Legs like stilted jack-scissors, arms made of flailing paper. Its body was twisted like a carnival tent, all red and black stripes, and its head—
Its head wasn’t one face. It was a stack of faces, rotating like a slot machine, each segment leering with yellow eyes and jagged smiles.
“Welcome to the party… The Trickmaster,” purred the Cheshire Cat.
Sonic dusted himself off and stood with a sigh. “Well. Guess we found the guest of honour..."
The Trickmaster juggled three batons with eerie precision, it twirled them between its spindly fingers like a demented ringmaster.
Sora summoned his Keyblade with a snap of light. Donald drew his staff, and Goofy raised his shield, stepping forward with determined eyes.
“Real circus act, this one,” Sonic quipped, shifting into a battle stance. “Hope you’re ready, guys!"
Sora gritted his teeth. “Let’s go!”
THE TRICKMASTER
Battle Music: Sonic Rivals 2 Boss Theme
Sora rushed forward, Keyblade gleaming, only to dodge back as the Trickmaster slammed both feet down with a thunderous crash, sending chipped teapots and cutlery flying in every direction. A shockwave blasted across the garden like a ripple of chaos.
Sonic shot past him in a blazing streak, the Elemental Conduit on his wrist flaring with a flicker of fire. He twisted mid-air into a fiery Spin Dash and struck the Trickmaster’s spindly legs—but the Heartless leapt with unnatural grace, flipping upside-down like a marionette yanked on invisible strings.
“Okay—I wasn't expecting that!” Sonic muttered, skidding to a stop just before a flying saucer clocked him in the face. “Oof!”
“Sonic, you okay?!” Goofy called out, running over to him.
“Fine. Totally fine..." Sonic grumbled, brushing bits of porcelain off his quills.
The Trickmaster landed behind them with a crash, its juggling clubs spinning wildly. Around it, painted plates, cups, and teapots hovered mid-air like demented satellites—as if gravity had decided to take a tea break.
Donald yelped and ducked as a plate whizzed past his head. “Watch it!”
“Then do something, Donnie!” Sonic snapped, leaping back as another plate boomeranged toward him. “I’ve already taken fine china to the face today!”
Sora rolled under flying cups, while Goofy knocked away more like he was in a tennis match—his shield the racket, the crockery the balls.
“Anytime with your spells…” Sonic muttered, flipping backward just in time to dodge a fork zipping past like a dart.
“Use your magic, Donald!” Goofy hollered, now smacking aside a teapot with a grunt.
Donald groaned. “Fine!” He thrust his staff forward and cast a bright, frosty spell. “Blizzard!”
A blast of cold erupted from the weapon. The airborne objects froze mid-spin—then shattered in a burst of porcelain shards and icy mist as Sora dashed through them with a spinning Keyblade slash.
Landing in a crouch, Sora glanced over his shoulder, confused. “…Hold on a second.” He looked at Donald, brows raised. “Donald, you know ice magic?!”
Donald puffed up indignantly, spinning to face him. “Of course I do! I’m the Royal Magician!”
“Then why haven’t you been using it?!” Sonic yelled, ducking as a chair whizzed past his head. “Kinda could’ve used that earlier!”
Even Goofy chimed in, peeking out from behind his shield as he batted away a rogue sugar bowl. “Gawrsh, Donald… you’re always casting magic back home.”
Donald flailed his arms. “DO WE HAVE TO TALK ABOUT THIS NOW?!”
Sora parried a flying plate and grinned. “Only if you’re gonna teach me after!”
Donald huffed, rolling his eyes. “Fine! Just stop complaining!”
The Trickmaster spun towards them, its multiple faces rotating like a roulette wheel. One gaping mouth unhinged and spewed a cone of fire across the garden, the flames roaring straight toward the heroes.
“Heads up!” Sonic shouted.
Goofy jumped in front of the group, raising his shield just in time. The fire hit like a freight train, but Goofy held his ground, his shoes skidding slightly across the ground.
“Donald, ice it!” he barked.
“Already on it!” Donald replied, staff glowing blue.
A surge of Blizzard magic burst forward. The icy blast met the flames in mid-air—BOOM—the collision erupting into a steamy cloud that blanketed the garden. The Trickmaster reeled with a mechanical screech as frost crawled up its limbs, locking its knees with cracking ice.
“Let’s get that creep!” Sonic shouted, eyes blazing.
With its movements slowed, Sonic surged forward. His Elemental Conduit sparked to life, crackling with red flames. He spun mid-air and slammed into the Trickmaster’s left leg with a fiery kick. The towering Heartless wobbled, its balance faltering.
“Take this!” Sora yelled.
He vaulted high off a nearby chair, Keyblade arcing in a three-hit aerial combo. His strikes hammered into one of the Trickmaster’s spinning faces—sparks flying, the segment shuddering under the force.
Goofy was next. He charged in low and slammed his shield into the Trickmaster’s right leg. CRACK! The combined pressure from both sides made the Heartless stagger, its top-heavy frame tipping wildly.
But before they could press the advantage—more plates, cups, and teapots launched into the air, levitating like a dinnerware storm.
“It’s unsteady now, fellas!” Goofy called out, shield at the ready.
“Let’s end this!” Sora shouted, gripping his Keyblade tightly as he dashed in.
“You read my mind!” Sonic called back. He landed from his assault—and took off running again, faster than before, wind trailing behind him.
“Freeze!” Donald shouted, casting another Blizzard.
The icy magic struck true—coating the Trickmaster’s long legs in frost. It screeched as the freezing surge locked its joints, stalling its frantic juggling mid-motion.
“All yours!” Donald yelled to the team.
“Fine by me!” Sonic shouted, racing around the garden.
Sora launched into the air, Keyblade ready to strike.
"This is it!" he called out.
He slammed down with a rapid three-hit combo—clash-clash-SLAM—each strike hitting a different segment of the Trickmaster’s segmented head.
Goofy wasn’t far behind. He leapt from a chair with his shield raised high. “Comin’ through!”
With a loud CLANG, he struck one of the Heartless’s frozen legs, knocking it off balance completely. The Trickmaster stumbled, reels of ribbon-like arms flailing.
Sonic skidded to stop, sparks flicking from his feet as his bracelet flared.
His voice sharpened. “Phantom Rush—let’s GO.”
Sonic split into afterimages, each one blazing with light. The Trickmaster was surrounded—one Sonic, five Sonics, a dozen flashes of blue.
He zipped from side to side, striking over and over, each afterimage delivering a kick or spin attack. The Trickmaster was caught in a storm, unable to break free.
Sora and Goofy leapt back in, joining the blitz. Sora launched into a spinning aerial strike while Goofy leapt up and slammed his shield down like a hammer. Their rhythm synced with Sonic’s assault.
BAM. WHAM. CRASH.
The Trickmaster could barely keep up—faces spinning, limbs collapsing.
Sonic flipped backward from the final afterimage loop, launching high into the air one last time. His bracelet pulsed with fiery light.
He cracked a grin and shouted down, “Yo! Better brace yourself—’cause this party’s over!”
With a spiraling spin, he blazed downward in a Fire Spin Dash, trailing a vortex of heat and kinetic energy as he collided dead-centre with the Heartless’s core—
BOOM!
The Trickmaster fell to the floor with a tremendous thud, its gangly limbs folding beneath it like a broken marionette. The impact shook the Tea Party Garden, sending a final spray of cracked porcelain and glittering embers across the area.
Its twisted body convulsed once—then split apart, unraveling into fragments of darkness. Shadows peeled from its limbs like torn cloth, disintegrating as they scattered into the air.
The group watched as a faint shimmer rose from the remains.
A glowing heart floated upward from the Trickmaster’s fading core. It hovered gently in the air, pulsing with soft, light before beginning its ascent towards the sky.
"Woah..." Sonic muttered, his green eyes wide.
Sora stepped forward, watching in awe. “Just like in Traverse Town…”
Donald and Goofy joined him, their eyes fixed on the drifting light.
“I wonder if that’s a heart it stole from someone…” Goofy murmured, lowering his shield.
They all stood quietly for a moment as the heart rose higher. It glowed with such warmth and purity, it was hard to believe it had come from something as nightmarish as a Heartless.
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: S
Sonic kicked off the celebration with a rapid spin in place, then landed in a stylish crouch—fingers pointing skywards. “Oh-ho! Now that’s what I’m talkin’ about!” He flipped back with a flourish, fist pumping the air when he landed back on his feet.
“Whoa…" Sora remarked, his grin wide. “That was awesome!”
Donald crossed his arms smugly. “About time. I’ve been carrying you guys since we landed in this crazy world.”
Sonic raised an eyebrow. “Oh really? You mean after you finally let slip you know ice magic?”
“Don’t start with me!” Donald snapped, waving his arms around.
Goofy chuckled and slapped his knee with joy. “Gawrsh, that was somethin’ else! We really showed that Trickmaster what for!”
Sora gave a quick twirl of his Keyblade. “We actually pulled it off. Teamwork for the win!”
Sonic wagged his finger with a confident grin. “We’re unstoppable when we work together up!"
The garden was left in disarray after the battle with the Trickmaster Heartless. The long table lay shattered, chairs overturned, and shards of cutlery littered the ground like confetti from a very unhappy birthday party.
Sonic exhaled sharply, hands on his hips.
"I'm just glad I didn’t sign up for cleanup duty..." he quipped, trying to lighten the mood.
Before they could catch their breath fully, the Cheshire Cat shimmered back into view. His grin was unchanged.
Sonic’s expression hardened instantly.
"Was that Heartless your idea, cat?" he demanded, his voice cutting.
The Cheshire Cat tilted his head lazily. "Oh no… just another lost soul who got swept up in Wonderland’s madness."
Sora stepped forward, worry in his voice. "But what about Alice and Amy? You said to follow the shadows—we did, leading us here."
The cat’s grin remained, but his tone shifted, almost mournful. "Gone. They are not here."
“…What?!” Sonic blurted out, stepping toward where the cat floated. Everyone else looked just as shocked.
But before the hedgehog could demand answers, the feline's body shimmered and vanished again, his final whisper curling like smoke through the rain-streaked air: “In Wonderland, nothing is ever as it seems. Those who vanish rarely leave the way they came…”
Sonic stood still, fists clenched tight. He stared into the empty space where the cat had disappeared.
“…Was I… too slow?” he said—barely audible. "Damn it..."
Sora turned to him, face softening. “Sonic…”
Goofy scratched his head nervously. “So… wait—what does that mean? They’re just gone?!”
Donald frowned, glancing up at his longtime ally. “It has to be the Heartless, right?”
“It's gotta be…” Sora said slowly, eyes drifting between them all. “But... maybe they got pulled into another world?”
Goofy perked up. “Yeah, like when your world was swallowed by darkness, Sora. That’s how you ended up in Traverse Town, remember?”
“But… this world’s still here,” Donald pointed out, gesturing to the wrecked garden around them. “Wonderland hasn’t fallen.”
Sonic’s eyes narrowed. “No… but maybe that doesn’t matter. The Heartless could’ve opened a portal of darkness or something—and Amy and Alice might’ve escaped through it.”
Sora nodded, voice gaining strength. “They might’ve outrun the Heartless… ended up somewhere else. Somewhere like Traverse Town.”
Donald looked unsure. “But that place’s for people whose worlds are gone.”
“Maybe,” Goofy said, rubbing his chin. “Or maybe it helps folks who are just… lost.”
“…So you think they escaped?” Sora asked—half-hopeful, half-afraid to believe it. “You really think they made it out?”
"I'm not sure..." Donald admitted, his tone softer than usual. "But we've gotta keep our options open."
"Yeah, we can't give up hope just yet," Goofy added with a small smile, trying to lift the mood.
Sonic stepped forward, eyes set with determination. “I do. And we’re gonna find them.” He turned to Sora. “Along with your friends, buddy.”
Sora looked at him, eyes wide with gratitude. Even now, Sonic wasn’t just chasing his own goal—he was chasing his, too.
“We should head back to the Gummi Ship," Donald remarked. "Check in with Leon and the others in Traverse Town.”
“Yeah,” Goofy added, his tone optimistic. “Aerith, Yuffie, Tails, Cid—somebody there might’ve seen them.”
“Maybe they even saw Riku or Kairi too,” Sora said, his voice lifting with hope.
Donald nodded. “Could be. We’ll check.”
"And perhaps they even saw the King?" Goofy exclaimed.
"Let's hope so," Donald replied firmly.
Sonic lingered a moment longer, his gaze trailing upward to the sky.
“Alright. Let’s go," he said firmly. "If there’s even a chance they’re there…”
He turned to Sora, his eyes sharper now—focused, sincere.
“I’m not gonna stop until I find Amy, Alice—and all of our missing friends.”
Then, more softly, he added with a small but genuine smile, “That includes Riku and Kairi too. And the King. I mean it.”
For a moment, none of them spoke.
But something shifted—Sora could feel it. It wasn’t just that Sonic had vowed to help. It was how he said it. That fire in his eyes—like their search had become his own. Like he’d drawn a line in the sand, and nothing would make him back down.
For Donald and Goofy, it stirred something familiar. A memory of their King. Sonic had that same spark—the same unshakable will to protect others and press forward, no matter what.
They weren’t just travelling together anymore.
They were in this as friends. As a team.
Bizarre Room
The four heroes retraced their steps through the winding paths of Wonderland, eventually arriving back at the Bizarre Room. The Doorknob was still exactly where they’d left it—snoring away, blissfully unaware of the chaos that had unfolded in its world.
Sonic folded his arms, eyeing the massive fixture.
"Still asleep, huh?" he muttered with a sigh. "Wish I could nap through that much madness..."
“Honestly? Same," Donald agreed.
Goofy gave a small chuckle. “Heh… that does sound kinda nice…”
But Sora had stopped a few paces ahead, his expression shifting. His eyes narrowed slightly.
“…Wait a sec.”
He stepped closer to the slumbering Doorknob, watching as it let out a lazy yawn mid-snore. That’s when he saw it—something glimmering deep in its throat.
“What the…” he muttered in suprise.
A faint, magical pulse shimmered in the air. Sora didn’t hesitate. His Keyblade materialised with a flash and immediately pointed itself forward, as if sensing the lock’s presence.
A beam of pure white light burst from the tip of the Keyblade, striking the shimmering Keyhole directly.
CLICK.
The sound echoed like the closing of a vault door.
The Doorknob let out a loud snort, but didn’t wake—just shifted deeper into its dreaming.
"What the heck did you just do?" Sonic asked, stepping up beside Sora, blinking in surprise.
Sora slowly lowered his Keyblade, still staring at the oversized Doorknob.
“I… I think I locked something,” he murmured.
“You think?” Sonic replied, raising a brow. “Kinda hard to miss something like that, buddy.”
“There was this… weird Keyhole,” Sora explained, turning back to the group. “Right inside its mouth. The Keyblade just reacted on its own, like it wanted to lock it.”
Donald tilted his head. “That sound we heard—it was a lock. Just like locking a big door."
Goofy scratched his chin, thoughtful as ever. “So… does that mean this world’s safe now?”
“I dunno,” Sora admitted, glancing at the still-snoring Doorknob. “But… it felt right. Like sealing something important.”
Sonic folded his arms, tapping a foot. “Well, I hope it locked away some of the weirdness on this world."
Goofy chuckled warmly. "That’d be a real nice start.”
Before anyone could reply—thunk—something dropped from the ceiling and landed at Sonic’s feet with a soft bounce.
“Huh?”
The hedgehog looked down—and blinked in disbelief.
It was glowing.
Green. Brilliant. Pulsing with unmistakable energy.
“…No way.”
Sonic knelt, carefully picked it up, and held it aloft. The radiant emerald light danced across his fur and the walls around them.
Donald squinted up at it. “What is it?”
“It’s a Chaos Emerald,” Sonic said, half-awed. “One of the seven.”
Sora’s eyes widened. “That’s it? One of those Chaos Emeralds you and Tails told us about?”
Sonic nodded slowly. “Sure is.” His voice was steady, but even he sounded surprised. “Didn’t think we’d run into one this early on our adventure.”
Donald moved closer, eyes wide. “But… how’d it get here?”
“No clue,” Sonic admitted. He turned the emerald in his hands, studying its shimmer. “They’ve always had a knack for showing up where you least expect. I figured we’d find one eventually—just not in a backwards world like this one."
“Wonderland really is full o’ surprises..." Goofy admitted, scratching the top of his head.
Sonic gave a dry smirk. “Tell me about it. Still… it means we’ve got our first one.” He stood tall, the emerald catching the light.
“One down…” He glanced at the others, grinning. “Six to go.”
Sora smiled, his earlier worries momentarily lifted. “Nice! That means we’re making progress.”
Donald gave a cheerful flap of his arms. “Oh boy! We gotta let Jiminy know right away!”
Goofy nodded enthusiastically. “Yup! He’ll jot it down in his journal for sure. And once we’re back in Traverse Town, we can fill in Leon, Tails, and the rest.”
Sonic pocketed the emerald with care, his expression briefly turning solemn.
“Come on, team. We've got leads to follow,” the hedgehog said firmly. “Chaos Emeralds and shards to hunt down, Keyholes to understand… and friends to find.”
His voice softened just a little.
“…Amy and Alice are still out there. We’ve got to find them.”
The room fell quiet. But only for a moment.
Sora stepped forward, resting his Keyblade on his shoulder. “Then we’ll find them—no matter what.”
“Yeah,” Donald said, puffing out his chest. “From what you’ve told us, Sonic, Amy’s tough. I bet she’s already giving those Heartless a hard time.”
Goofy nodded. “And I reckon Alice is doin’ the same—probably outsmartin’ ‘em left and right, she seems like a bright girl. But still… it’s up to us to bring ’em back.”
Sonic’s expression softened. His voice dropped, just a bit. “…Thanks, guys.”
He turned one last time to look at the sleeping Doorknob—still snoring, still clueless.
“…Let’s get moving.”
“Back to Traverse Town?” Sora asked.
“Yup,” Sonic said, stepping towards the doors leading back to the rabbit hole. “Time to regroup. Maybe Leon knows what just happened with your Keyblade?"
“If anyone does, it’s him,” Goofy agreed.
“Then let’s go!” Donald called out, already waddling forward.
With their first victory behind them and a Chaos Emerald in hand, the team marched on—hearts full of questions, but united by purpose.
Notes:
And that’s a wrap for Wonderland!
I hope you all enjoyed the adventure—now we can finally move on to the next world in the remaster.
Up next: Jiminy’s Journal and a sneak peek at the next world, which should be out in the next couple of days.
Not too much to say this time, but I just wanted to give a huge thank you for reading. It means a lot, and I truly hope you’re enjoying the ride so far.
Let me know what you thought—I'm always open to creative feedback, theories, and comments!
Anyway, onward to the next one. See you all in the Journal entry!
Chapter 8: Jiminy's Journal - Wonderland
Summary:
Jiminy's journal for Wonderland and new characters that appeared. Plus, Eggman runs into a certain Mistress of All Evil, and a new world is dealing with the Heartless, with an agency brought in to investigate.
Notes:
Welcome back!
In this chapter, we’ve got Jiminy’s Journal entries to dive into—plus a check-in with Eggman and a sneak peek at the next world on the horizon for our heroes.
As always, thank you for all the Kudos, Bookmarks, Reviews, and Subscriptions! We’ve now reached 100 Kudos on this story, with the original version sitting at 128 across all chapters released. A huge thank you to everyone who’s been following along!
A fan of the series has created the playlist on YouTube for this story. A big thanks to Daniel Juelfs for starting this. If you fancy listening as you read, please give this playlist a follow. You'll find it named Kingdom Hearts: Blue Blur Edition: The Music Playlist. Link is here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLciCx8MhyAxDgMxhUB1b__CkxgGDbXJvG&si=E4ryT0zrZHb1X1_U.
Also, the Saga has a TV Tropes page: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Fanfic/KingdomHeartsTheBlueBlurSaga.
Please enjoy—and stick around for a few notes at the end.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
[Collection Room (File Select) - Sonic Generations starts playing]
Jiminy's Journal
Chronicles:
Wonderland
Part 1:
We left Traverse Town behind aboard the Gummi Ship, setting off for our first big adventure together. The ride started out nice and easy—until a Heartless ship swooped in and turned it into a dogfight! Thankfully, Donald showed he’s not just the royal magician—he’s a top-notch pilot too. With quick thinking and sharp shooting, he sent those pests running back into the void.
Next stop? A world unlike any other: Wonderland. And boy, is that name earned! Talking doorknobs, floating furniture, shrinking potions—you name it. The gang had to shrink themselves just to keep going. I stayed on the ship to hold down the fort, but they filled me in once they got back.
Turns out, they wandered into the middle of a trial—starring two very confused defendants: a girl named Alice and Sonic’s friend, Amy. The Queen of Hearts claimed they stole her heart (figuratively or literally… still unclear). Naturally, Sonic wasn’t about to let that slide, and Sora backed him up without missing a beat.
To clear Alice and Amy's names, the group had to collect “evidence”. Wonderland’s full of surprises and bogus laws, that's for sure.
Part 2:
Boy, oh boy—this world really lives up to its name! The gang told me all about the wild time they had tracking down evidence to prove Alice and Amy’s innocence. Sonic raced through twisted gardens, battled Heartless, and even dodged a giant, bouncing croquet-ball hedgehog!
In a hedge maze and a dreamlike forest full of talking flowers, weird tea parties, and nightmare caterpillars, he found three key clues: a Heartless helmet, a cracked teacup, and a broken antenna. Meanwhile, Sora and the others picked up more evidence—including Sora's clawed-up sleeve and a plank with a footprint.
Together, they presented the evidence in court, but the Queen of Hearts wasn’t having it. Even when a Heartless literally jumped out of the evidence box, she still called them guilty! A big brawl broke out—but when they finally lowered the cage holding Alice and Amy… it was empty.
The girls were gone.
Something darker is at play here, and I’ve got a bad feeling about what comes next.
Part 3:
Well, the gang came back from Wonderland with more questions than answers—and one very big story to tell. After Alice and Amy vanished mid-trial, Sora, Sonic, Donald, and Goofy searched the Lotus Forest for any sign of them. No luck—just more riddles, tea parties, and trouble. Even the Cheshire Cat popped in and out with his usual nonsense, leading them to a garden full of floating lanterns and a tea table straight out of a storybook.
There, they faced a monstrous Heartless called the Trickmaster. But the team pulled through, thanks to Sonic’s speed, Sora’s skill, Goofy's defence, and Donald finally using his Blizzard magic (which he somehow forgot to mention earlier!).
After defeating that towering Heartless, Sora sealed a strange Keyhole, which might protect it from more darkness... but Alice and Amy are still missing. The team suspects the Heartless whisked them away to another world—possibly even Traverse Town.
Before leaving, something incredible happened: the green Chaos Emerald dropped right in front of Sonic! One down, six to go.
We're now heading back to regroup at Traverse Town, but one thing’s for sure—this isn’t over. Wonderland gave the team their first real test. And it sounds like the real journey is only just beginning.
Character Profiles
Alice
Voiced by: Hynden Walch
A girl who fell down a rabbit hole into Wonderland. She often daydreams and is naturally curious. Falsely accused of trying to steal the queen's heart, she was given an unfair trial and falsely convicted. Alice is now missing along with Sonic's friend Amy Rose.
Alice fell down the rabbit hole in "Alice in Wonderland" (1951).
Amy Rose
Voiced by: Cindy Robinson
A pink hedgehog with a big heart and an even bigger hammer. Amy once fell head over heels for Sonic—and never quite landed. Fiercely loyal and never afraid to throw hands (or hammers), she arrived in Wonderland… only to get caught up in the Queen’s ridiculous trial alongside Alice.
Amy is now missing, presumed to have been taken away by the Heartless.
Amy first appeared in Sonic CD (1993), and she’s been chasing Sonic (and trouble) ever since.
Queen of Hearts
Voiced by: Tress MacNeille
A queen of Wonderland who lives in a castle with decks and decks of card soldiers. Selfish and short-tempered, she beheads anyone who crosses her. She thinks Alice tried to steal her heart.
She struck terror in our hearts in "Alice in Wonderland" (1951).
Cheshire Cat
Voiced by: Jim Cummings
A mysterious, grinning cat who talks in riddles and can appear and disappear at will. He loves to mislead and confuse (just ask Sonic!)
He entered with a big smile in "Alice in Wonderland" (1951).
White Rabbit
Voiced by: Corey Burton
Loyal servant to the Queen of Hearts. He led Sora and his friends to the Queen of Hearts' castle.
He wasn't late for his appearance in "Alice in Wonderland" (1951).
Chaos Emeralds Found: 1 / 7
Master Emerald Shards Found: 1
Ansem Reports Found: 0
[Collection Room (File Select) - Sonic Generations stops playing]
[Villains of a Sort - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX starts playing]
Unknown Domain
Eggman placed one hand on his hip and the other thoughtfully on his chin, scanning his surroundings with critical precision.
"Well, not exactly where I expected that light to lead," he muttered, eyes narrowing as he studied the gothic architecture and twisted ornamentation around him. Shadows flickered and danced along the stone walls, dimly lit by green flames in wrought-iron sconces. He wrinkled his nose. "But I suppose it beats endless wandering down a path of existential dread."
He tilted his head, adjusting his glasses. "Given the questionable décor, I'd say I've wandered into the abode of someone deeply sinister—but probably nowhere near as intelligent as I."
A laugh echoed through the chamber—feminine, rich, and dripping with velvety malice.
"Oh, I would reconsider that assumption, Doctor."
Eggman stiffened slightly and turned sharply towards the voice. From the shadows, a figure emerged, her black robes trailing gracefully across the dark floor. Tall, poised, and crowned by two horns, Maleficent regarded him with calm superiority, a faint smile on her lips.
"Doctor Ivo Robotnik," she greeted smoothly, each syllable precise and commanding. "Or should I say... Doctor Eggman."
Eggman straightened his posture, his moustache bristling slightly.
"That's right," he replied firmly, his tone carefully measured between curiosity and irritation. "And you are?"
She walked past him slowly, barely sparing him a glance. "Maleficent. Mistress of All Evil. Welcome to my domain."
Eggman watched her closely, eyes sharp.
"Charmed, I'm sure," he drawled, sarcasm faintly colouring his voice. "Though I wasn't exactly looking for a tour..."
Maleficent halted, turning to him with a narrowed gaze. "And yet, without my intervention, you would still be wandering helplessly through that Dark World."
Eggman scoffed dismissively, waving a hand. "Please. I had everything under control. It was only a matter of time before I figured out an exit strategy."
She smiled indulgently, a hint of cold amusement flickering in her eyes. "How amusingly foolish. You underestimate that realm's treachery."
He crossed his arms defiantly, his posture arrogant. "I underestimate nothing. Which begs the question—why exactly did you decide to help me, hm? Feeling charitable were we?"
Maleficent stepped closer, regarding him with calculating eyes. "Hardly. Your brilliant mind intrigues me, Doctor. I have need of someone with your considerable intellect."
"Is that so?" Eggman mused, raising a brow. "And just what does this 'need' entail?"
"A simple arrangement," she replied, her voice silken with persuasion. "Call it a partnership. Together, we can reshape the worlds, disposing those who oppose us."
Eggman chuckled coldly, shaking his head. He paced slowly around the chamber.
"A flattering offer, truly," he conceded. "But there’s just one tiny problem—I don’t play well with others. With Mobius gone, I finally have the perfect opportunity to branch out, to discover new worlds ripe for conquest. Imagine it, the glorious rise of my Eggman Empire!"
He stopped abruptly, turning sharply to face Maleficent with a pointed smirk. "Solo acts tend to run far smoother. And besides," he added, voice lowering with emphasis, "I don’t share."
Maleficent watched him calmly, entirely unfazed. "I am well aware Mobius has fallen. But tell me, Doctor—are you certain you can seize these new worlds alone?"
Eggman jabbed a finger in her direction, tone firm and defiant. "Know this, Maleficent—I am finally free of the chains of past failures." He dropped his hand, gesturing grandly as he continued. "No more bumbling assistants, no more meddling G.U.N. snooping around as usual, and most importantly, no more blue rodent or his irritating friends to spoil my plans. I can finally realise my true ambition—ruling the many worlds beyond!"
Maleficent’s gaze sharpened, a dangerous gleam flickering within her eyes. "Then perhaps consider this: with my assistance and the powers of darkness at your command, your most persistent nuisance—destroying that troublesome hedgehog—can at last be fulfilled. With Sonic eliminated, nothing could stand in your way."
Eggman’s demeanour shifted instantly, his eyes widening sharply behind his glasses. "Sonic? He’s alive?!"
"Indeed he is," Maleficent confirmed smoothly, her voice silkily triumphant.
"I knew that annoying rodent was still kicking!" Eggman spat, throwing his hands up dramatically in frustration. "Mobius is obliterated by darkness, yet somehow that blasted hedgehog still outruns death itself. Typical…"
Maleficent’s lips curled slowly into a satisfied smirk. "Indeed. Worse yet, he now aligns himself with the Keyblade’s chosen wielder and the King’s foolish servants. He has become... problematic."
Eggman stroked his moustache, intrigued despite himself.
“Keyblade, you say? Interesting.” He then tapped his chin, eyes gleaming with curiosity behind his glasses. Maleficent watched him closely, her cold gaze betraying a flicker of interest. “I’ve heard vague mentions of such a weapon, buried in my grandfather’s notes.
"Your grandfather was Professor Gerald Robotnik, correct?" Maleficent asked smoothly.
Eggman’s expression darkened slightly, thoughts turning inward. “You know of him?”
Maleficent inclined her head. “His research transcended far beyond your world, Doctor. His legacy echoes across the stars.”
For just a moment, the usually boastful Doctor looked genuinely caught off guard.
“Well, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised,” he said at last, smirking with no shortage of pride. “He was a visionary genius. Runs in the family, of course.”
“And I imagine you’d like to continue that legacy,” Maleficent said, voice turning velvety with persuasion. “Imagine it—your name carried across the cosmos. Whole worlds bent to your design.”
Eggman fell silent. But behind that silence, the gears in his mind turned rapidly.
“She’s buttering me up. Flattery wrapped in manipulation. She wants to use me—then toss me aside the moment I’m no longer useful.”
“Well… joke’s on her. I’ve been playing the long game for so long, I practically wrote the manual!"
“Let her think I’m on board. Feed her just enough ego to keep her talking. But in the end? I’ll be the one writing the final chapter of this little fairy tale.”
[Villains of a Sort - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX stops playing. Eggman Again - Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
"You raise some compelling points," Eggman finally said with mock-gravity. "But let’s get one thing crystal clear—I don’t take orders."
He stepped forward, his tone growing more theatrical. “I am Doctor Eggman! The greatest scientific mind on any world! And I do not fetch, carry, or grovel—especially not for a sorceress with a flair for the dramatic and a penchant for darkness."
Maleficent raised a brow—amused rather than insulted.
“Then don’t,” she said, voice calm and cool. “Join me. Aid my cause, and together we will crush those who dare oppose us—including that infuriating hedgehog.”
“Very well,” Eggman replied, his tone lowering. “We’ll call it... a strategic alliance. One that happens to benefit both our interests. Temporarily.”
He wagged a gloved finger at her. “But don’t mistake my cooperation for servitude. The moment I sense betrayal, you’ll find your domain rebuilt into Eggmanland!”
Maleficent offered a sly smile, her eyes gleaming. “I wouldn’t have it any other way, Doctor. After all, true visionaries are rarely predictable.”
Eggman returned the smirk, watching as she turned gracefully and began to walk. Her robes swirled behind her like curling smoke as she stepped into a corridor veiled in shadow.
“Come with me,” she said cryptically. “There’s something within the castle I believe will pique your interest.”
Elsewhere on an Unknown World...
[A Prelude (Chapter 1) - Original Mode - The House of the Dead 2 starts playing]
The sky overhead churned with dark grey clouds, the kind that pressed low and heavy against the rooftops. Rain fell in sheets, hammering the stone streets with unrelenting rhythm. Thunder rumbled across the gloomy and wet city.
This world was steeped in history, beauty, and culture—was now gripped by something twisted. Whispers had spread of unnatural creatures prowling the rain-slick alleys, of yellow-eyed beasts emerging from shadows. The AMS had responded.
Little is known about the AMS. A covert global agency, their reach extends across borders—and perhaps even worlds. They handle threats that most governments can’t explain, or won’t acknowledge. If something impossible starts spreading... they show up.
The first on scene was Agent G, veteran of the Curien Mansion incident. But after his initial report, contact was lost. Now, reinforcements were closing in fast.
A sleek black car rumbled through a narrow road between old buildings, windshield wipers slashing at the rain. Behind the wheel sat James Taylor, early 30s, sharp-suited and composed, with eyes that carried experience far beyond his years. Beside him, Gary Stewart, younger, less seasoned, but no less determined. His dark blue suit clung damply to his frame, hair slightly tousled from the weather, and his jaw set tight.
They were headed to a rendezvous point, where G was supposed to be waiting.
“G should be up ahead,” Taylor said, nodding towards a looming building through the windshield. "That was his last known location."
“Let’s see what he’s dug up,” Stewart replied, voice steady but alert.
Suddenly, a winged creature swooped into view, its grotesque, batlike form framed by flashes of lightning. With a ghastly snarl, it hovered in front of the car, talons outstretched.
“What in the—?!” Taylor slammed the brakes.
Their vehicle fishtailed on the slick road before grinding to a halt. The agents threw open their doors, guns unholstered, eyes locked on the demonic figure fluttering before them.
The creature before them—an imp—had sinewy flesh clinging to a skull twisted in a sneering grin. Its glowing eyes gleamed with malice, and its voice raspy like a child’s toy filtered through static.
“I’ve already taken care of G,” the creature rasped, voice sharp and inhuman. “This is only the beginning.”
Taylor took a step forward, gun raised. “Wait—what?!”
Stewart tensed. “What did you do to him?!”
The creature’s wings flapped once more, lifting it into the grey, rainy sky.
“You’re next,” it sneered, its laughter peeling through the rain as it perched atop a tall, clock tower looming over the street.
From its clawed finger, it pointed downwards with cruel delight.
“Get them,” it ordered darkly.
The rain intensified, hammering the cobblestones. A few meters ahead, the street began to writhe—its surface bending like melting wax. Pools of darkness oozed into existence, rising from the cracks like open wounds in the earth.
Dark creatures emerged—Shadow Heartless, rising from the black pools like living shadows, their twitching limbs and glowing yellow eyes cutting through the rain.
Stewart staggered back, gun raised but unsteady. “What the hell?!”
Taylor didn’t flinch. He stepped forward, calm, steel-eyed. “It's those things from our intel…” he said lowly. “They’re real.”
He glanced over at Stewart, his voice firm.
“Let’s go, Gary.”
Notes:
And that’s another chapter down!
How did you find this one—and the two scenes following Jiminy’s Journal?
Compared to the original, there are a few key changes worth noting.
One of the biggest additions in this remaster is the interaction between Eggman and Maleficent—something that never really happened in the original version. Plus, we’ve dropped a new detail: the mention of Professor Gerald Robotnik. His work transcending worlds? Interesting, isn’t it?As usual, Eggman’s still Eggman, always trying to stay one step ahead.
Also, the next world is House of the Dead 2! Just like in the original, this is the first Sega world the team visits—replacing Deep Jungle. The scene here improves upon the original version and leans more heavily on the two-player opening cutscene with James and Gary.
If you’re new to the series and haven’t read the first story, this marks the beginning of something big. The team won’t just be facing Heartless this time... they’ll be caught in the chaos of House of the Dead 2.
I hope you enjoyed this chapter and everything still to come!
As always, thank you for the support—your Kudos, Bookmarks, Reviews, and Subscriptions mean the world.
See you in the next one.
Chapter 9: Città Morta di Venezia (House of the Dead 2) Part 1: Fallout
Summary:
On their way back to Traverse Town, the crew passes over a depressing looking world—Città Morta di Venezia. Sora wants to investigate, hoping to find their missing friends. Donald insists they stick to the plan. With Sonic, Goofy, and Jiminy caught in the middle, tensions rise... until the Gummi Ship crashes, scattering the group across the grotty, rain-slick streets of the city.
Welcome to Venice—where the dead don’t stay quiet for long.
(World inspired by Venice from House of the Dead 2. First Sega world)
Notes:
And we’re back—time to dive into the next arc: House of the Dead 2’s Venice.
Apologies for the delay—I've been busy juggling a few other projects behind the scenes.
This world replaces Deep Jungle from the original story, making it one of the first Disney worlds swapped out for a SEGA one. Big shift, but a fun one.
The world is called Venice, but if you want to get fancy with it:
Città Morta di Venezia – The Dead City of Venice.
Also... some inspiration from Dream Drop's “La Cité Des Cloches” :)Don’t worry, the crew still calls it “Venice” in dialogue. I just wanted to be make a change and be different. :)
As for Part 1, not much has changed from the original continuity to a degree—mostly grammar and flow edits, with some tweaked dialogue to better reflect where the characters are now in this remaster’s narrative.
Please enjoy! Notes at the end.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Lanes Between
[Blast Away - Gummi Ship I - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX starts playing]
The Gummiship sliced through the Lanes Between, stars streaking past like fleeting memories they couldn’t shake. A heavy silence settled over the cockpit. The events in Wonderland were still fresh in their minds, lingering like a bitter aftertaste.
They had to return to Traverse Town—urgently. Tails, Leon, Cid, Aerith, and Yuffie needed to know what they’d discovered, especially about Alice and Amy, who might have narrowly escaped the Heartless.
But it was the strange interaction between the Keyblade and the Doorknob that stuck with Sora the most. That Keyhole… it felt important. Plus, the unexpected appearance of a Chaos Emerald—now securely in Sonic’s possession—only deepened the mystery.
Donald sat at the helm, hands steady on the controls. The others stared out the windows in silence, each lost in their own swirling thoughts.
Ahead, a new world drifted into view—closer than they’d expected. Its presence cast a long, eerie shadow across the surrounding lanes.
As the Gummiship got closer, the strange world sharpened into focus.
Once a vibrant city of bridges, bell towers, and tranquil canals, Città Morta di Venezia— or Venice, for short—was now a decaying husk.
The waterways flowed thick with green-black muck, shimmering with an unnatural gleam beneath flickering gas lamps that should’ve burned out long ago. Half-sunken gondolas drifted aimlessly, bumping against rotted docks. The air reeked of mildew, salt, and something rotting just beneath the surface.
In the distance, a massive stone cathedral loomed—its spire cracked, its bells long since fallen silent.
Jutting out grotesquely from the cityscape stood a towering structure of steel and black glass, out of place and unnerving. Like the Queen of Hearts’ castle in Wonderland, it pierced the skyline unnaturally—an architectural scar, buzzing faintly with corrupted energy.
Tucked beyond the collapsing alleys and winding canals sat a Colosseum, half-swallowed by decay. Its cracked stone arches and scorched battleground echoed faintly with the ghosts of bloodsport—memories of cheers long silenced, now replaced by growls in the dark.
“Look at that world,” Sora muttered, his voice low, eyes wide as he leaned toward the glass. “It’s... falling apart.”
“Rather gloomy, don’t ya think?” Goofy added from the co-pilot seat, his usual cheer dampened by the grim scene. “Think this could be the work of the Heartless?”
“It must be,” Donald said from the pilot’s seat, his eyes fixed ahead, ears twitching.
Sonic sat with his arms crossed. “Man... this place is giving me chills already," he admitted. "Kinda reminds me of the Labyrinth back home.”
Sora turned. “The Labyrinth?”
“What’s that?” Goofy asked, turning back to look at the hedgehog.
“It’s a place on Mobius,” Sonic explained, voice laced with unease. “A maze of ancient underwater tunnels. Dark, wet, echoey, filled with ruins and... stuff that likes to grab you from the shadows. Gives me the creeps.”
Goofy scratched his head, piecing it together. “So, this place reminds you of that place back home?”
“Yeah, same kind of vibe,” Sonic said, pointing down at the canals. “Like the darkness crawled into every corner. Plus…” He winced. “The water.”
Sora raised a brow. “Bad swimmer, huh?”
“More like ‘can’t,’” Sonic admitted, scratching the back of his head. “I tried to learn once… They stuck me in the beginners class.”
Donald snorted from his seat. “Everyone starts somewhere.”
“No. There was no way I was swimming with a bunch of five-year-olds,” Sonic huffed, but then his voice dropped, laced with dread. “They can be so cruel when they sense weakness…”
"That's hilarious!" Sora laughed, tears almost in his eyes.
"Dude!" Sonic shouted back, his head turning sharply towards the boy.
Goofy chuckled. “Well, that’s somethin’ new.”
From behind Goofy’s shoulder, Jiminy popped up out of nowhere, small journal in hand. “I'll need to add this to the journal. ‘Sonic the Hedgehog – Nemesis: Water & Small Children.’ Noted!”
“Great...” Sonic muttered, half-lidding his eyes at the cricket. “Thanks, Jiminy.”
“My pleasure,” Jiminy replied, tipping his hat.
As the group laughed and Sonic sighed, he turned back to the view. Memories of the Labyrinth Zone flickered in his mind—the silence, the pressure, the shadows. He shook it off, but the chill stayed.
“If this place is anything like that Labyrinth you mentioned, ” Sora said, his voice growing firm, “we’ll need to be careful. We don’t know what’s waiting for us down there.” He gave Sonic a teasing grin. “Especially with you and all that water.”
“You’re not gonna let this go, are you... island boy?”
“Nope.”
Sonic sighed, rolling his eyes. “Figures…”
However, Donald, still concentrating on driving the ship, had other ideas.
"We should keep moving; this place doesn't look too friendly," he insisted, tone clipped and practical, like he was already thinking three steps ahead.
"Donald, we can't just turn away from this place!" Sora interjected, his voice filled with conviction. "What if Riku and Kairi are down there? Or your king, or even Amy and Alice? We have to explore, to make sure they're not in danger!"
"Sora, we need to get back to Traverse Town, that's the plan we agreed on!" Donald's tone grew stern, his gaze unwavering as he turned his attention away from the controls to the fired-up Keyblade wielder behind him. "We have to let Leon, Tails, and the others know what happened in Wonderland. We can't afford to lose any more time!"
"Donald has a point, Sora," Jiminy added, hopping down from Goofy's shoulder and scurrying across the dashboard to the front of the control panel. "For all we know, the girls might be safe and sound in Traverse Town."
"But what if they're in danger on that world?" Sora's voice cracked with emotion, pointing to the depressing world. "We can't just leave them behind!"
"Kid's got a point, Donnie," Sonic agreed with a small shrug.
With an exasperated huff, Donald spun and stood from the controls, his webbed feet stomping across the metal floor as he marched towards Sora, who also raised from his seat, fists clenched and jaw tight.
Goofy, Jiminy, and Sonic exchanged anxious glances- recognising the rising storm.
"Great..." Sonic muttered, rubbing a gloved hand down his face. "Here we go..."
The hedgehog was right... this was about to blow up.
“Sora!” Donald snapped, his voice sharp like a thunderclap. “I know you wanna help, but we can’t just dive into every world with our eyes closed!”
Sora turned slightly, frustration flickering in his wide blue eyes. “But what if they’re in trouble right now? What if waiting costs us everything?” His voice cracked—not just with anger, but fear.
The tension crackled between them like static electricity.
“Alright, alright—timeout,” Sonic called out, stepping forward and planting himself between them. “You two are acting like this is a race to see who can be the most stubborn.”
Goofy rose from his seat as well, raising a gloved hand gently. “We gotta listen to each other, fellas. We’re all tryin’ to do the right thing here.”
But Donald wasn’t backing down. He threw his arms out, feathers bristling, voice rising. “And what if we go down there and get ambushed?” he snapped. “Or worse—what if we drag more worlds into danger?! We don’t even have the full picture, Sora!”
“We didn’t have the full picture when we landed on Wonderland,” Sonic remarked flatly, making a valid point.
“He’s got a point there,” Goofy added, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
“You two aren’t helping!” Donald barked, feathers puffing in frustration.
“Maybe we never will have the full picture, Donald!” Sora growled, his voice rising. “What if Riku, or Kairi—or even Amy and Alice—need us right now? And we’re standing here, wasting time arguing, just because it’s safer to wait?!”
“WE AGREED TO GO BACK TO TRAVERSE TOWN!” Donald shouted, his voice like a firecracker in the cockpit. “We had a plan!”
“Yeah, but—” Sora began, only to be cut off by a sharp tap-tap-tap.
Jiminy, balanced neatly on the edge of the dashboard, tapped his tiny umbrella and cleared his throat with all the polite restraint he could muster.
“Excuse me, folks,” he said firmly. “But this argument’s going off-track—both literally and figuratively.”
Suddenly, a low rumble filled the cockpit. The lights on the console pulsed red, flickering rapidly.
“Uh… fellas?” Goofy’s voice turned serious as he leaned toward the dashboard. “We’ve got a problem!”
Donald’s eyes widened. “Oh no—!”
He dove for the helm just as the ship jolted hard to the left.
“Ship’s goin’ haywire!” Goofy barked.
“Wait—are you telling me the ship started losing control while you two were yelling?!” Sonic shouted, gripping a side rail as the Gummi Ship bucked hard beneath them.
“Hey!” Sora snapped, shooting him a glare.
“Nice going,” Sonic moaned. “A+ coordination…”
“NOT HELPING!” Sora and Donald shouted in unison.
Sora stumbled forward, grabbing the edge of Donald’s seat. “Donald! Can you stabilise us?!”
“I would’ve—if I hadn’t been yanked into a yelling match with you!” Donald shot back, beak clenched, arms straining at the controls.
Sparks burst from the console. Jiminy leapt just in time, flipping off the dashboard and landing squarely on Goofy’s shoulder, clinging for dear life.
“Next time, remind me to pick up Gummi-Insurance!” he shouted out, trying to hold onto his hat.
“That’s a thing?” Sonic blurted, eyes wide.
“NOT NOW!” everyone shouted back.
Outside the windshield, the world below rushed up toward them—fast.
“Uh, guys?” Sonic said, gripping the rail tighter. “Hate to add to the chaos, but we’ve got bigger problems incoming!”
The alarms blared louder. The ship’s frame groaned under the strain as the nose dipped forward, bucking violently as if trying to shake them loose. Panels flickered. Loose parts clanged around the cockpit. Gravity surged.
“We’re goin’ down!” Sora shouted.
Goofy braced himself against the co-pilot’s seat. “Hold on tight’!”
Donald fought the controls with every ounce of strength his small frame could muster, feathers flying. “Come on, come on! Stay with me!”
The Gummiship bucked violently as it pierced through the atmosphere. Pressure slammed against the hull. Heat shimmered beyond the viewport. The metal walls rattled, the engines howled, and the ship screamed like it knew its time was up.
Everything became noise—alarms blaring, steel groaning, gravity twisting sideways.
“Brace for impact!” Donald barked, his voice sharp and ragged.
Sonic crouched low, locking his grip on the railing. Goofy held Jiminy tightly in one hand and clung to the bulkhead with the other. Sora planted himself near the console now, arms wrapped around a support beam, heart thundering in his chest.
The Gummiship gave one final, tortured groan—then split open with a deafening crack. A burst of fire and wind tore through the cockpit as the vessel sheared in two, fragments of glowing panels and cables whipping around like angry spirits.
“THE SHIP’S BREAKING APART!” Sonic shouted over the chaos.
A violent shockwave ripped through the cabin. Sora saw Goofy and Jiminy disappear in a burst of light. Donald vanished in the wind. Sonic’s voice echoed—and then he was gone, pulled into the dark like a falling star.
Sora’s fingers slipped from the console. He was weightless and falling.
He tumbled through a storm of debris, eyes stinging from smoke and wind, until the sky itself seemed to blink—and a thick, dark fog swallowed everything.
Elsewhere on Venice...
[Strange Whispers - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX starts playing]
A tower loomed high above Venice. Inside, bathed in a lifeless gray light, Caleb Goldman sat perfectly still behind a massive, obsidian desk. Marble black. Impossibly clean. Not a speck of dust dared to settle.
The walls were sheer and pale, casting faint reflections. Whilst the air was cold, silent, and artificial.
Goldman did not move a muscle. His hands were clasped, his glasses still, reflecting nothing. The tall leather chair cradled him like a throne of calculated arrogance.
Across from him, half-swallowed by shadow, stood Maleficent.
“They have sent agents,” Goldman said, voice flat and hollow. “From the AMS. Their curiosity... was inevitable.”
He spoke as though reciting data from a screen. There was no urgency in his tone, only fact—bleached of life and meaning.
Maleficent moved forward, her staff glimmering with a faint, sickly green. Her presence disturbed the air.
“Let them come,” she stated, her voice silky with menace. “Each footstep they take is a thread pulled tighter."
Goldman inclined his head by a fraction of a degree.
“They will resist,” he said. “But resistance accelerates entropy. The darkness adapts. Evolves. The cycle will begin again.”
Maleficent’s eyes narrowed slightly, her voice now tinged with cool warning. “Be careful, Goldman. The Heartless may heed your command… but darkness, once stirred, is not so easily tamed. It does not serve, only devours.”
His expression did not shift. His tone remained unbroken. “I am aware. They are a resource... a means. Nothing more.”
“Confidence,” Maleficent mused, her grin barbed now. “How quaint. It reminds me of the newest addition to our little circle.”
Goldman adjusted his glasses with mechanical precision. “Eggman.”
“Indeed,” she said, with theatrical flair. “I found him grasping for relevance in the dark. Now, he fashions monstrosities with fervor. He thrives among wires and ruin.”
Goldman didn’t blink. “Useful.”
Her smile tightened. “Temporarily.”
“Keep him focused,” Goldman replied flatly. “Until the equation resolves.”
“I don’t need your counsel,” she said, her voice suddenly sharp and regal. “When the Doctor’s usefulness ends... he will disappear.”
A long, flat silence. The faint clicking of distant servers. Then, Goldman nodded slowly.
Maleficent turned without further words, vanishing in a coil of emerald flame and shadow.
Once again, Goldman sat alone. The hum resumed its vigil. The stillness returned, surgical and suffocating.
After a pause, he rose, hands flat against the cold surface of the desk. His eyes, lifeless yet calculating, stared into the artificial gloom of his office.
“Everything's set,” he said to no one, as if narrating a conclusion already written. "All we need to do is wait."
[Strange Whispers - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX stops playing]
On the ground...
A dull ache pulsed behind Sora’s eyes.
“...Sora. Hey—come on, buddy, wake up.”
The voice cut through the fog in his head. Sora stirred, groaning, as the world began to snap back into focus.
Above him stood Sonic, bruised but upright, hands on his knees, catching his breath. His quills were tousled, and he looked like he’d just walked through a wind tunnel—but he was grinning, if only slightly.
“Rise and shine, sleepyhead,” Sonic said, extending a gloved hand.
Sora blinked hard. “Sonic…?”
“Yep, still me. Still fast. Still handsome. C’mon, up you get.”
Sora grasped his glove, letting the hedgehog pull him to his feet. His legs wobbled for a second before he found his balance. He rubbed his shoulder and winced.
[Advertise Intro - House of the Dead 2 starts playing]
“Ugh… I feel like I got hit by a world...”
“You kinda did,” Sonic replied, glancing up at the grey sky. “Ship broke up mid-descent, remember? You and I must’ve fallen clear when it cracked open.”
Sora shook his head to clear it, then took in the landscape. Damp cobblestone streets stretched into broken alleyways. Grotty buildings leaned over the roads, the air thick with the smell of rain and stagnant canal water. The whole world reeked of waterlogged decay—and something else. Something old and forbidden.
“This place really gives me the creeps...” Sora muttered, hugging his arms to his sides as he looked around. Then his eyes widened. He spun in place. “Wait—wait, where’s Donald?! Goofy?! Jiminy?!”
Sonic frowned as he scanned the empty streets again, more seriously this time. “No idea. Haven’t seen or heard ‘em since we hit the ground.”
“Great...” Sora exhaled, frustration building behind his ribs. “We’re split up."
He kicked at a loose chunk of pavement, sending it clattering across the street. Sonic eyed him.
“They’ll be okay,” he said, voice steady. “Their a tough bunch. But we’ve gotta move if we wanna find them.”
Sora nodded slowly, but his fists clenched at his sides. “This is my fault...” he said suddenly.
Sonic tilted his head, curious. “How you figure that?”
“I shouldn’t’ve yelled,” Sora muttered, eyes fixed on the ground. “I got so worked up—I just thought… if our friends our in danger, we had to act right away. I couldn’t just sit and do nothing.”
Sonic stepped back, giving him space. “Look,” he said, his tone shifting—firmer, but not angry. “Wanting to help your friends? That’s not the problem. That’s your strength. But charging in without thinking? That’s where it goes sideways.”
Sora’s shoulders stiffened. “So I’m the reason the ship went down?"
“I didn’t say that,” Sonic replied calmly. “We all made choices up there. You pushed Donald, yeah. But he pushed back. And Goofy and I probably should’ve stepped in sooner.” He paused, then added dryly, “Kinda hard to play peacemaker with a ship shaking itself apart.”
Sora looked down, shame creeping in. “I just thought I was doing the right thing…”
“I know you did,” Sonic said, stepping forward again. “And maybe you were. But here’s the thing, kid—you don’t always get to be right and be safe. Sometimes you’ve gotta trust the crew and the plan. Especially when you’re out of your element.”
Sora opened his mouth to protest, then closed it. His eyes dropped to his shoes, his voice smaller now. “You think I’m out of my depth... don't you?"
“I think you’re learning,” Sonic said gently. “Same way I did. Same way everyone does. But learning means listening, even when you think you’re right.”
The words landed heavily. Honesty hitting home. Sora didn’t respond right away. He just stood there, fidgeting with the strap on his glove.
“…You're right,” he said at last, his voice barely above the drizzle now starting to fall. “I got caught up. I’ll do better.”
Sonic gave a short nod. “Good. Because this place—” he flicked his thumb towards the canal nearby, where murky water lapped lazily against the crumbling stone embankment “—doesn’t play fair. You let your guard down here, even once, and it’ll bite back."
Sora inhaled deeply, feeling the wet air settle heavy in his lungs. The silence was thick, broken only by the distant creak of wood and the rhythmic drip of water from broken eaves overhead.
“So... what now?” Sora asked.
“We move,” Sonic said, already scanning the street ahead. “Find the others. Get a lay of the land. And watch for anything that moves wrong or breathes weird.”
Sora managed a faint smile. “You mean like the Heartless?”
“More than likely, pal,” Sonic replied, his smirk returning—but only just.
The words had barely left his mouth when a thundercrack split the silence.
A gunshot—raw, metallic, and real—cut through the air like a blade.
The sound hit Sora’s chest like a punch, with the boy looking around in suprise to locate where the noise had come from.
Sonic’s ears twitched. His stance shifted instantly—low, alert, every line of his body on edge. The humour drained from his face like someone had flipped a switch.
“That wasn’t close,” he said quietly, slightly bewildered. “But it wasn’t far way either.”
Sora materialised his Keyblade, his grip tightening instinctively as he stepped forward. “We should check it out. Someone could be in trouble.”
“Or causing it,” Sonic muttered, falling in beside him. “Either way, don’t run in blind. We don’t know what we’re walking into.”
“I know,” Sora said—his voice low, but certain. “But we can’t ignore it.”
Sonic studied him for a heartbeat. Then he gave a nod—short, grim, and respectful. “Alright, Sora. Lead the way. I got your back."
Together, they ran down the street, their footsteps muffled by the wet stone beneath them. The city stretched out ahead—silent once more, but not empty.
[Advertise Intro - House of the Dead 2 stops playing]
Meanwhile...
The rain had tapered to a miserable drizzle by the time Donald, Goofy, and Jiminy found themselves trudging along a ruined café promenade. The once-lively canal-side street was lined with overturned tables, broken umbrellas, and shattered storefronts.
Donald marched ahead, feathers still puffed with leftover frustration. Goofy followed a few steps behind, whilst Jiminy nestled safely in the fold of his hat.
“Jeez,” Goofy muttered, looking around warily. “This world gives me the hibbie jibbies… Somethin’ foul’s hangin’ in the air. I sure hope Sora and Sonic are okay...”
Donald scoffed without slowing down. “I still say we don’t need ‘em,” he grumbled. “We’ve got this handled. We’ll find the King without any help from that reckless kid or that blue show-off.”
As they passed a darkened alley, Goofy slowed to peer down its length. “Feels like the perfect place for an ambush...” he said quietly. “What if Sora and Sonic are in trouble?”
Donald’s pace never faltered. “They’ll be fine,” he snapped. “Stop worryin’ about them—especially Sora. He got us into this mess.”
Jiminy poked his head out from under Goofy’s hat brim. “Still,” he said, glancing around, “I wouldn’t mind regrouping... Safety in numbers, y’know?”
Donald waved him off. “We’ll be fine. This place isn’t even—”
A low groan cut through the air, cutting off the duck mage.
“WAAAK!” Donald jumped a solid foot in the air. His staff materialised in a flash of magic, clutched tightly in both hands.
Goofy instinctively summoned his shield, raising it in front of them. “Uh-oh… that didn’t sound like no Heartless...”
Jiminy dove deep into Goofy’ hat like a practiced pro. “Call me when it’s over!” he cried out.
Suddenly, another groan echoed through the air—closer this time—as two figures emerged from around a corner.
“What in the—?!” Donald shouted, his eyes wide with shock.
“Gawrsh... what the heck are they?” Goofy added, his voice tight with panic as he ducked behind his shield, peeking nervously over the top.
[AMS Agent (Chapter 2) [Arcade Mode] - House of the Dead 2 starts playing]
The creatures shambled forward—identical, grotesque creatures with sagging skin and bloated eyes. Their jeans clung to their decayed legs like wet paper. Torn patches of skin exposed muscle, blackened veins pulsing unnaturally. One of them had a gaping hole in its side, as if something had already taken a bite. Their jaws hung slack as they staggered towards the duo, arms twitching at odd angles.
“Z-z-z-z…” Donald stuttered, stepping back.
Goofy’s eyes widened. “ZOMBIES!” he cried out.
The creatures surged forward, ready to attack.
BANG. BANG.
Both abominations jerked violently. Their heads snapped back as the bullets struck—flesh splitting with a sickening crack—and they toppled over like puppets with their strings cut.
As their bodies hit the ground, a thick, bubbling hiss filled the air. Sickly green sludge oozed from their torn flesh, spilling across the cobblestones like boiling tar. The smell hit them a second later—burnt mold, rotten eggs, and something sharp and metallic, like a leaking battery.
Donald blinked once. Then again. His staff drooped at his side. “Whuh—” he muttered, face twisting in revulsion. “Errr... What in the heck were they?!”
Goofy’s mouth hung open. He hadn’t lowered his shield, just sort of frozen behind it. “That… that ain’t how Heartless vanish…” he said slowly. “They usually just poof—y’know? Not like... that!”
The green slime sizzled as it soaked into the cracks between the stones. One of the heads twitched, jaw unhinging with a final, wet snap, before collapsing into the goo completely.
Donald took a step back, his face scrunched tight. “BLECH! Oooh ahh, I think I’m gonna be sick…”
He barely had time to gag before a voice called out behind them—smooth, British, and commanding.
“You two alright?”
Donald and Goofy spun around slowly.
Standing a few feet back were two strangers. A tall woman in a red jacket held a silver pistol, lowering it with precision. Beside her stood a man in a black suit and sunglasses—despite the overcast sky—his own weapon still warm from the shot. Both had the trained poise of professionals.
“Odd-lookin’ locals,” the man muttered, eyes narrowing behind his shades.
“I’ll say,” the woman replied, tilting her head slightly. “Something very odd about these two.”
“Odd?!” Donald shouted, his frown deepening. "Hey, what’s that supposed to mean?!”
Goofy scratched his head with a free hand, trying to diffuse the tension. “Uh... are you two cops or somethin’?”
The woman stepped forward confidently, slipping her pistol into a sleek hip holster. “Amy Crystal. AMS.”
The man followed suit. “Harry Harris. Same.”
Donald’s eyes widened, but he looked perplexed. “A-M...S?”
Amy nodded, moving towards them slowly with her partner. “Let's just say we're an agency for the suppression of biological threats. We are here investigating... well, that,” she gestured to the dissolving remains of the two undead attackers.
Goofy perked up. “Wait, you mean those things weren’t Heartless?”
Harry raised a brow. “Heartless?”
Amy glanced at Harry, smirking. “They’ve got their own terminology, it seems.”
Donald quickly stepped in front of Goofy and shot him a pointed look. “Ahem—WORLD ORDER, Goofy!”
"Oh yeah... right..." Goofy muttered, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.
The two AMS agents exchanged a knowing, amused look before turning back to Donald and Goofy.
“Oh… it’s gonna be that kind of day,” Harry said with a smirk, lowering his glasses to study them.
“What kind of day?” Donald asked, curious.
“Never mind,” Amy said smoothly, waving it off. “Point is, you ran into a pair of Davids.”
“Uh… Davids?” Goofy asked, puzzled.
She nodded towards the goo near them. “That’s what we call those ones. Standard grunt-class infected. Slow, dumb, but dangerous in groups.”
“So they are zombies?” Donald questioned.
“Technically? Yes,” Harry said. “But they’re not mindless corpses. Someone engineered these things. Controlled mutations. Purpose-built. Part of something much worse.”
Amy crossed her arms. “And if you two are wandering around here without backup, you’re in more danger than you realise.”
Goofy lowered his shield, stepping forward slightly. “We ain’t alone. We got friends here too. A boy named Sora, and a real fast fella named Sonic.”
“Maybe they’ve run into James and Gary...” Harry pondered, glancing at Amy. “Possibly G?”
She nodded. “Could be. Either way, we’re better off sticking together. Let’s move—walk and talk.” Amy turned on her heel, already heading down the promenade.
Harry lingered a second longer, eyeing the duo. “You two got names?”
“Donald Duck,” the duck snapped, jabbing a thumb at himself, still slightly puffed up. Then he pointed his staff towards Goofy. “And that’s Goofy.”
Right on cue, Jiminy Cricket popped his head out from Goofy’s hat. “Cricket’s the name—Jiminy Cricket, at your service!”
Harry blinked hard behind his glasses, doing a visible double take. “Huh.”
Amy stopped and glanced over her shoulder. “Something wrong?”
He shook his head slowly, adjusting his dark shades. “Duck with a staff. Dog with a shield. Polite cricket in a top hat. HQ’s never gonna believe this mission report.”
Amy smirked. “File it under: classified weird.”
Notes:
And that’s a wrap on Part 1 of our House of the Dead 2 arc!
I’m thinking this arc will span 5 to 6 parts—stretching it out to let the pacing breathe and give the world time to shine. Originally it was just 3 chapters, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned from reading great fanfics here: a strong pace leaves you wanting more.
This world—Città Morta di Venezia (or just Venice for short)—is directly inspired by the decayed canals and city of House of the Dead 2. There’s also a nice nod to Labyrinth Zone in there, and yes—Sonic’s swimming class trauma comes straight from Sonic Boom. Gotta keep the gags going.
Like in the original version, we’ve got:
Sora and Donald arguing mid-flight.
A crash landing into a nightmare city.
A private chat between Goldman and Maleficent—two manipulators, same sinister energy.
Sonic giving Sora some honest (and needed) advice.
And this time, Donald and Goofy meet AMS agents Amy Crystal and Harry Harris a bit earlier than before.
Next chapter? It’s time for Sonic and Sora to take action—and meet two new allies: James and Gary. Expect bullets, banter, and a whole lot of undead.
Thanks again for sticking with me! I know it’s been about two months since the last update, but I wanted to get this part out before heading off on holiday/vacation.
Appreciate the patience—and as always, thanks for reading.
Part 2 coming soon. Stay tuned!
Chapter 10: Città Morta di Venezia (House of the Dead 2) Part 2: Unlikely Partners
Summary:
Sonic and Sora find the commotion, and are introduced to Gary and James of the AMS. Meanwhile, Donald & Goofy show Harry and Amy what they bring to the table. More details on Goldman's schemes, and the previous AMS mission at Curien's Mansion is brought up.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The alley spat them into a broad, desolate plaza. Sonic and Sora came to a skidding halt when they saw where the commotion was coming from.
Two men stood back-to-back in the open square, suits rumpled and hands steady on their pistols, shooting out in defensive. Their eyes darted, cold sweat gleaming on their brows, as they fired in short, controlled bursts as the nightmare of the Shadow Heartless closed in on them.
"Heartless!" Sora remarked.
"Yeah, but look at what's with 'em!" Sonic replied, pointing a gloved finger.
It wasn't just the Heartless slinking across the cobblestones that were the problem, they were joined by a group of lumbering foes which made things much worse.
"What the?!" Sora remarked in alarm.
Flesh peeled in strips. Milky eyes rolled in sockets that didn’t blink. Jeans hung in tatters, brown shoes scraping on stone as they staggered forward with jerky, unnatural movements. Each breathless groan carried the stench of rot and stagnant canal water, thick enough to make Sora gag.
"Bleurgh," the teen gagged, the smell becoming too much.
Sonic’s nose wrinkled. “...Okay, that’s new. And it stinks.”
The men heard them. One risked a glance over his shoulder mid-reload. His voice rasped with disbelief. “Gary… tell me I’m seein’ things—because that looks like a kid… and a blue rat?!”
“Hey! I’m not a rat,” Sonic shot back automatically. “Hedgehog. Big difference.”
Gary swore under his breath, snapping a fresh clip into his pistol. “Great. We’re either losing it—or the circus is in town.”
There was no time for debate. The Heartless and zombie-like creatures pressed closer.
Sonic’s eyes hardened. He shot a glance at Sora. “C’mon—we’re not letting them get chewed up.”
Sora’s grip tightened as the Kingdom Key burst into light in his hand. His pulse hammered, but not with fear—only determination. “Right. We’ll ask questions after.”
With a nod between them, the duo surged forward.
Fight in the Plaza
Battle Music: Darkness (Chapter 3) [Arcade Mode] – House of the Dead 2
The plaza erupted into utter chaos.
Shadow Heartless twitched, their yellow eyes glowing as they darted low to strike. Behind them, the Davids lumbered forward, arms twitching at grotesque angles. And towering over the pack, bulkier shapes—Steves—snarled as their bloated jaws snapped open and shut with wet cracks.
“Shadows, shamblers, and a couple of big uglies,” Sonic muttered, crouching low. “Heh, looks like a warm-up to me.”
The two men in suits, James & Gary, raised their pistols in unison, gunfire cutting through the plaza with sharp, controlled rhythm.
Bang! Bang!
Two Shadows dissolved into black mist before they even reached the line.
A Shadow leapt for Sora, but he rolled beneath its pounce, the motion natural—instinctive. He came up on his feet and swung hard. The Keyblade connected, bursting the Heartless into smoke.
Another Shadow scuttled from the side. Sora braced himself. A strange chill surged up his arm. Without thinking, he thrust his Keyblade forward.
“Deep Freeze!” he called out loudly.
A jagged shard of ice exploded point-blank, freezing the Heartless solid. Without hesitation, Sora swung his Keyblade into the block, shattering it into glittering fragments.
Sonic blinked mid-attack as he tore through another Shadow with a Homing Attack. “Wait—Blizzard?!” He came to a stop, staring. “How the heck do you know that already? I thought Donald was gonna teach you that?!”
Sora stared at the Keyblade, wide-eyed. “I—I don’t know! I just felt something and… it said, 'do it!'”
“Convenient, I guess,” Sonic grunted, leaping into a Homing Attack that crushed two more Shadows into bursts of darkness.
“Keep that up, kid!” James barked, pivoting sharply. He double tapped a David in the forehead. Its skull snapped back, and the body collapsed in a spray of green ooze. The stench hit instantly, acrid, and metallic.
“That’s gross!” Sora gagged, his face turning pale. He barely managed a dodge roll as a Steve lumbered in, swinging its meaty arm in a brutal arc.
Sonic spun into a ball, slamming square into the monster’s chest. The impact staggered it just enough for Sora to follow up with a sharp three-hit combo—slash, slash, overhead smash! The creature convulsed and dissolved into bubbling green muck.
“Nice teamwork!” Sonic shouted, darting past in a blue blur.
“Yeah…” Sora coughed. “But it’s still gross!”
Nearby, Gary swore under his breath, lining up another shot. His bullet tore through a David’s knee, sending it crashing down.
“Now!” Gary barked.
“On it!” Sonic blurred forward, flames sparking from his bracelet as he rocketed clean through the staggering corpse. The body ignited on impact, collapsing into smouldering sludge.
“Nice!” Sora called out, dodging a lunging David. He pivoted, bringing the Keyblade down in a clean arc. Crack! The zombie staggered back, green ooze splattering across the cobblestones.
“This is still disgusting…” Sora grumbled.
“Focus up,” James barked, eyes narrowing. “Those dark ones are regrouping.”
He was right. The Shadow Heartless rippled together, their bodies melting into the ground before reappearing in unison. Three leapt at once, claws wide, yellow eyes blazing.
Sora jumped back, planting his feet. The Kingdom Key flashed in a fiery circle. “Back off!” he shouted, thrusting forward. “Fire!” Three small fireballs streaked from the tip, slamming into the pack. The Shadows shrieked as they burst into flame and dissolved into black smoke.
“Not bad!” Sonic grinned, twisting into a Phantom Rush combo. His fists and feet blurred into blue streaks, each strike landing like a drumbeat. Thwack! Thwack! Crack! A David’s jaw split sideways before Sonic ended the flurry with a sharp spin-kick that dropped it in a heap, dissolving into green ooze.
“Cover left!” Gary snapped. He and James wheeled in sync, their pistols barking in quick succession. Bang! Bang! Bang! The last three Shadows disintegrated under the barrage.
“These guys don’t quit!” Sora called, darting back just as one of the Steves lumbered into motion. The brute lowered its head and charged, thundered straight for him.
Sora sprinted to a nearby wall, vaulting higher than he thought possible. The Steve slammed full force into the stone, cracks spiderwebbing across its surface. Sora dropped behind it, Keyblade flashing in a tight three-hit combo—swing, slash, downward strike! The creature jolted under the blows, black ichor spraying, but it kept moving.
“They’re tougher!” Sora warned, backing off again.
“No kidding!” Sonic growled. He shot forward, curling into a Homing Attack that slammed into its chest as it turned. The brute staggered. The hedgehog followed up instantly, bracelet sparking flame as he revved into a blazing Spin Dash. The Steve howled, stumbled but refused to fall.
“Finish him!” Sonic taunted, smirking as he landed. “Ha—always wanted to say that.”
Sora dashed in, Keyblade igniting with sparks.
Flames engulfed the creature’s face. It reeled back, shrieking, blinded—perfect opening. Bang! Bang! Bang! James planted three rounds clean into its skull. The brute toppled like a falling tower, crashing to the ground with a quake.
Another Steve groaned and lunged straight at Gary.
Sora’s heart froze—but his legs moved. He rolled in, intercepting with a sharp upward slash. “Hyah!” The Keyblade cracked across its jaw, snapping its head sideways.
Sonic streaked past in a blur, his strikes landing in rapid succession. He vaulted high, curling into a Spin Dash that glowed with pent-up kinetic energy.
“Party’s over, creep!” Sonic shouted, diving down like a meteor. The Spin Dash crashed onto its skull with a sickening impact.
The brute swayed, stumbled—then collapsed in a heap of dissolving ichor.
Silence fell over the plaza, broken only by the hiss of green sludge seeping into the cobblestones and the soft click of James ejecting an empty clip.
Sora lowered his Keyblade, chest heaving. “We… we did it.”
Sonic grinned, brushing soot off his gloves. “And you froze one solid. Not bad, rookie.”
James holstered his pistol slowly, exchanging a look with Gary.
“Tell me I’m not hallucinating,” Gary muttered, wiping sweat from his brow. “We got help from a kid with a glowing sword key-thing… and a talking speedy hedgehog.”
“…Yeah,” James said, his voice low. He adjusted his tie with a sigh. “And right now, I think we’re lucky they showed up.”
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: S
Sonic’s ears perked up. He blinked, then broke into a wide grin. “S-Rank! Oh yeah!”
The hedgehog immediately launched into a celebratory spin, sliding onto one knee before popping up into a little shuffle. “C’mon, admit it—that was style and substance.” He finger-gunned Sora with a big smile.
Sora laughed despite himself, lowering the Keyblade. “You’re unbelievable.” He gave a small fist pump, though his face scrunched as he glanced back at the puddles of green goo. “Still gross, though.”
James and Gary just stood there, catching their breath, pistols slack at their sides.
“…Did the hedgehog just… dance?” Gary muttered under his breath.
“Don’t think about it,” James replied flatly, holstering his weapon. “Just enjoy the fact we’re still alive.”
Sonic finished with a little twirl and bowed dramatically.
Sora shook his head, a smile tugging at his lips despite the stink still hanging in the air. “Small victories, right?”
“Exactly,” James said, though his voice was dry as sandpaper. He glanced at the melted remains of their enemies, then back to the bizarre pair who’d fought beside them. “…Yes. Small victories.”
“Hey—are you okay?” Sora asked, glancing towards the men he and Sonic had just saved. His voice cracked slightly, still charged from the fight, as he lowered the Keyblade to his side.
The men holstered their pistols slowly, exchanging a wary look before one gave a small nod. “We’re standing. Thanks to you two.”
“Couldn’t have lasted much longer without that backup,” the other added, his tone even but his eyes scanning Sora and Sonic like he couldn’t decide if they were real.
Sonic flashed a grin, brushing soot from his gloves. “No worries. Happens to be what we do best.”
"Who are you two anyway?" Sora questioned.
The taller man stepped forward, straightening his suit jacket with a small tug before producing a badge from inside. “James Taylor. AMS.”
His partner mirrored the motion, flashing his own. “Gary Stewart. Same.”
“AMS?” Sora echoed, tilting his head.
“What’s that?” Sonic added, one brow raised.
“Agency for the suppression of… let’s just say ‘things like that,’” James said, jerking his chin toward the puddle of sludge. “Zombies, mutants, bio-weapons. You name it.”
“Huh. Sounds a bit like G.U.N.,” Sonic muttered under his breath.
“G.U.N…?” James repeated, brow arching.
“Never mind,” Sonic replied quickly, waving a hand like he’d said too much.
“Right…” James answered, though his eyes lingered on the hedgehog with quiet intrigue.
Sonic shifted uncomfortably under the stare. "Does he know about G.U.N.?" he thought.
“Anyway…” Sora jumped in, eager to change the subject. “Can you explain what AMS actually does?”
“We specialise in containment and elimination,” Gary said flatly, his voice professional. His gaze swept over Sonic, lingering a beat too long. “Though this is the first time we’ve had a… kid and hedgehog assisting.”
Sonic crossed his arms with mock offense. “Hey, beats letting you guys get eaten.”
Gary’s mouth twitched, the faintest ghost of a grin. “Point taken.”
“What are your names, anyway?” James asked, his tone clipped but curious as his eyes flicked between the boy and the hedgehog.
Sora stepped forward, polite as ever. “I’m Sora.” He gestured with his free hand. “And this is Sonic.”
“Yo,” Sonic gave them a two-finger salute.
“Pleasure,” Gary said with a nod. “But the real question is—what are you two doing here?”
“Hardly a place for sightseeing,” James added, his voice edged with suspicion.
Sora glanced at Sonic. The hedgehog only shrugged, a silent “play it safe.” They couldn’t risk complicating things with the World Order. Still… there was something in the way these two carried themselves. They knew more than they were letting on.
“Well… we’re looking for some missing friends,” Sora said at last. He gestured around the ruined plaza.
“Huh. Go figure,” James muttered, as if that answered more than it should.
“But tell us—” Sora pressed, eyes narrowing slightly, “those things you were just fighting. What are they?”
Gary exhaled slowly, the kind of sigh that carried years of experience. “Davids. Slow, dumb, dangerous in groups. Steves—the big ones—same mold, just meaner. They’re the products of experiments that should’ve never happened.”
“Experiments?” Sora echoed, brow knitting. “So… not zombies?”
“No. Not exactly,” James said, his expression hardening.
“Okay…” Sonic folded his arms, cocking a brow. “Care to explain from the top?”
James drew a slow breath. “It started a decade or so ago… but recently, it escalated with Dr. Roy Curien.”
“Curien?” Sora repeated.
“Genius,” Gary said flatly. “But insane. A few years back he tried to conquer death in his mansion. What he made instead… tore everything apart. In the end, his own top experiment killed him.”
Sora’s mouth fell open slightly. “That’s… awful.”
“Yeah…” Sonic muttered, shaking his head.
Gary’s jaw tightened. “AMS shut it down. We thought that was the end.” He glanced around, as if expecting something to crawl out of the shadows right then. “But Curien’s legacy doesn’t stay buried.”
James picked up smoothly. “And worse still—there’s a new player pulling the strings.”
“Who?” Sora asked.
“Caleb Goldman,” James said grimly. “Financial backer turned megalomaniac. A man who thinks the end justifies any means.”
Sonic let out a low whistle, rubbing the back of his head. “Figures. Everything’s got a price tag, huh?”
Gary nodded once, his eyes narrowing. “And if Goldman’s involved…” He left it hanging, grim silence filling in the rest.
Sora’s grip tightened on the Keyblade, his voice firm. “Then all of this—the creatures, the Heartless—it’s connected.”
“The what now?” James asked.
“The dark monsters with the yellow eyes,” Sora clarified quickly. “They’re called Heartless. We’ve been fighting them for a little while now."
James and Gary exchanged a quick glance—part disbelief, part acknowledgment.
“Alright,” James said finally. “Heartless. Noted. We’ll report it back to HQ.”
Gary’s gaze dropped to the Keyblade, still shimmering faintly in Sora’s grip. “And that weapon… what is it, Sora?”
Sora hesitated, then answered carefully. “It’s called a Keyblade. It can fight the Heartless, and… unlock things. It’s complicated.”
“Sounds it…” James muttered.
Gary let out a low whistle. “Well, I’ve never seen anything like it. Not even Curien could cook up something that strange.”
“It’s weird and wonderful,” Sonic said simply, crossing his arms. They had to remember the rule of the World Order, even if it felt outdated here. “That’s all you need to know.”
Gary gave a single nod. “Fair enough.” His tone softened—just slightly. “Look. We were separated from our team. Our superior—Agent G—is missing. Last we heard, he was tracking something… small.”
“Small?” Sora asked, blinking.
“Calls itself Zeal,” Gary said grimly. “We saw it earlier—before it flew off and sicced those Heartless on us.”
James’s jaw tightened. “We need to regroup with our team. And we need leads on Goldman—fast.”
Sora straightened, determination hardening his features. “Well… we’re looking for our group. They’re somewhere in this city. We have to find them.”
“Yeah,” Sonic added, frowning. “Especially if these things are teaming up with the Heartless…”
“Then it looks like we’re all in the same boat,” James said. His voice carried both command and a faint edge of relief. “How about this: you help us locate G and our agents; we’ll help you find your group.”
“And together, we take down Goldman and whatever else he’s playing with,” Gary finished firmly.
Sonic smirked, extending a gloved hand. “Sounds like a deal.”
Sora nodded, gripping it as well. “Whatever it takes.”
The agents clasped hands with them, sealing the alliance in the damp, ruined plaza.
James released the handshake and scanned the darkened alleys beyond, his pistol already back in hand. “Good. Because in this city…” His voice lowered. “The easy part’s over.”
Meanwhile…
On the other side of the city, Donald stomped ahead of the group. The route had funnelled them into a narrow street, hemmed in by crumbling brick walls and sagging balconies. The rain had stopped, but the stink lingered—the canals reeked of mildew and rot, and the air hung heavy with damp stone.
Donald muttered under his breath, feathers still bristling. “Hmph! Wait ‘til we find Sora and that hedgehog. I’ll show him I was right!”
“Aw, don’t get too sour, Donald,” Goofy said, trying to play peacekeeper. “I just hope they’re doin’ okay.”
Jiminy peeked out from the brim of Goofy’s hat. “Depends how you define ‘okay,’” he said wryly. “Lost in a half-dead city crawling with monsters doesn’t exactly scream holiday brochure to me, fellas.”
Amy’s boots splashed in a shallow puddle as she glanced at them. “This Sora and Sonic… they must be important to you.”
“Yeah, they’re our pals!” Goofy beamed, eyes perking up.
Donald quaked loudly, throwing up his hands in annoyance. “Hmph! Pals or not, this is still Sora’s fault!”
Harry, walking a step behind in his black suit and ever-present shades, gave a low hum of amusement. “Trouble in paradise?”
“Let’s just say Donald and Sora had an argument,” Jiminy clarified. “Didn’t exactly end well.”
“Right,” Harry said flatly, though the corner of his mouth twitched like he’d heard this sort of drama before.
Goofy tilted his head, studying the man curiously. “Say, Harry… do ya always wear sunglasses?”
Harry didn’t miss a beat. “Always.”
“…Even at night?” Goofy pressed.
“Yes.”
“Gawrsh.”
Donald rolled his eyes so hard it was a wonder they didn’t pop out of his head. “Who cares what he wears?!”
“It’s just intriguing, that’s all,” Goofy said with a shrug.
Donald sighed loudly, clearly already done with the day.
“Don’t waste your breath, Goofy,” Amy cut in, her tone cool as she glanced at the King’s Captain. “If you think the shades are strange… you’re in for bigger shocks.”
“Gawrsh, whaddaya mean by that?”
But Amy didn’t get the chance to answer.
A low groan rolled down the street ahead, bouncing off the broken walls like a warning. The group froze in their tracks.
“Uh-oh…” Donald murmured.
Figures stumbled into view from the shadows—Davids dragging their feet, while Heartless Soldiers flickered into shape, armour clanking in sync with the zombies’ jerks.
Harry slipped his pistols free in one smooth motion. “Contact.”
Amy chambered a round with sharp precision. “Here we go again.”
Goofy swung his shield down into position, grin faint but steady. “Hyuck… looks like we gotta do some fightin’.”
“And I’ve got a front row seat,” Jiminy piped up, bracing himself.
“Hold on tight, Jiminy!” Goofy said, planting his feet.
“Glady!” the cricket replied.
Donald didn’t say a word, but his feathers puffed out, magic already crackling at the tip of his staff. The ducks’ eyes narrowing at the approaching horde.
Harry raised both pistols in perfect sync, his voice flat but focused. “Targets incoming.”
Amy slid into a firing stance beside him, her tone clipped and cold. “Let’s keep this clean.”
[Squirming Evil – Kingdom Hearts HD I.5 Re:MiX starts playing]
The first David lunged—straight into Goofy’s shield charge. He braced and shoved hard. The creature went sprawling across the cobblestones, crashing into two more with a crunch.
“Nice one!” Jiminy chirped, clinging to the fold of Goofy’s hat.
“Thanks, pal!” Goofy grinned, already resetting his stance.
“Fire in the hole,” Harry said flatly. Two precise shots rang out—bang, bang—dropping the pile of Davids before they could rise.
The Soldiers rushed in next, claws gleaming. Amy snapped off a clean shot to the chest of one, sending it bursting into smoke. Another closed on Goofy—only to be met with a shield block that rang with sparks as steel screeched against metal.
Donald raised his staff high, eyes narrowed, magic flaring at the tip. “Blizzard!”
A surge of ice erupted, coating the cobblestones in jagged frost. Three Soldiers froze mid-strike; their movements locked in place—until Donald strode forward and cracked the nearest with his staff like a club. Shards exploded in a shower of blue sparks.
“Too easy!” Donald crowed.
The other two remained stuck in jagged ice, twitching helplessly.
“Hyuck—my turn!” Goofy called. The knight charged forward and shattered both frozen Soldiers on impact. They burst apart in glittering shards of darkness, fading to smoke.
“Nice work, Goofy!” Jiminy cheered, clinging tight to his hat.
Goofy chuckled, sliding his shield back into position. “Aw, shucks. We make a good team, don’t we?”
“Hmph! ’Course we do!” Donald said proudly, chest puffed.
Harry paused, blinking behind his shades. “…Did the duck just—”
“—freeze them solid,” Amy cut in coolly, lowering her pistol. “Yeah. I saw.”
Donald turned with a smug grin, feathers puffing. “What? Surprised?”
Harry muttered under his breath, almost grudging. “…Impressed. Especially with that teamwork.”
Donald snickered, the sound half-proud, half-gloating.
Goofy, ignoring his partner’s preening, swung his shield in a wide arc, bowling another David clean through a shattered storefront. Glass crunched, the body slumped, and green ooze smeared down the broken display.
“That’s four zombies… three Heartless…” Jiminy called out, clinging tightly to Goofy’s hat. “We’re racking up quite the list, folks.”
Suddenly, a Steve variant lumbered out of a side alley, bellowing as its jaws snapped.
“WAK!” Donald cried, feathers flaring.
The brute charged straight at Goofy. He braced his shield, shoes skidding across slick stone under the impact—but he held. With a grunt, he shoved upward, flipping the monster clean over his shoulder. It slammed onto its back with a ground-rattling thud.
“Nice counter, Goofy!” Jiminy cheered, but still clinging for dear life.
Amy didn’t waste the opening. Two quick shots tore into the thing’s chest, and Harry followed with a full clip to the skull. The brute convulsed before dissolving into green sludge.
The last Soldier lunged for Donald—but a flash of ice engulfed it. Donald smirked, pointing his staff. “Blizzard. Easy.”
Goofy spun into a Goofy Tornado, shield whirling. He smashed the frozen Soldier repeatedly until it shattered into black smoke and vapour.
[Squirming Evil stops playing]
The street fell quiet. For now, they’d won this bout.
Amy exhaled slowly, lowering her pistol. “Not bad. For a duck and a dog.”
“Aw, we do our best, ma’am,” Goofy said with an earnest smile.
Donald puffed up proudly, tossing his staff in the air and catching it with flair. “We are the best at what we do!”
“All in a day’s work for these two,” Jiminy remarked.
Harry slid his pistols back into their holsters, his voice quieter now but edged with curiosity. “Nice work. But let’s cut to the chase—you’re not from around here, are you?”
“What you mean,” Donald asked, taken back by the question. He couldn’t breach the World Order; it had to be secured.
Amy stepped forward, her gaze sharp. “Because we’ve seen civilians. Frightened. Broken. Hiding. They don’t fight like you. They don’t cast ice out of thin air, or plow through monsters with a shield. And they sure don’t travel with a cricket who keeps a running commentary.” Her tone softened, but only slightly. “You’re different. Too different.”
Goofy scratched his head, uncertain. “…Gawrsh.”
Jiminy tugged at his hat with a sigh. “So much for keepin’ a low profile…”
“WAK!” Donald quacked loudly, full of frustration. “Loose lips sink ships!”
Goofy blinked, tilting his head. “Uh… what kinda ships we talkin’ about?”
“Goofy!” Donald snapped.
Jiminy rubbed his face with a tiny hand. “He means we’d better keep quiet, Goofy.”
“Ohhh, right,” Goofy said with a nod.
Donald sighed loudly. “Why do I bother…” he thought.
The faint glow of a flickering light caught Harry’s sunglasses. His voice was low, even. “Relax. We’re not here to blow your cover or anything. Just… confirms a few suspicions.”
Donald grumbled, feathers ruffling as he leaned forward. “Suspicions about what?”
Amy and Harry shared a look before Harry spoke again. “Don’t worry about it—for now. We’ve got bigger problems.”
“Oh, like finding your friends, right?” Goofy said, perking up. “Same as us—we’re lookin’ for our pals too.”
“Yes,” Amy said firmly. “But more importantly—we need to find the man behind this outbreak.”
Donald tilted his head. “Who’re you lookin’ for?”
“Caleb Goldman,” Harry answered without hesitation. His tone was like tough iron.
“Goldman?” Donald repeated, squinting in confusion. He looked up at Goofy. “Any ideas who that is?”
Goofy hummed, rubbing his chin with his free hand. “Hmmm… can’t say I recall anybody named Goldman.”
“Me neither, fellas,” Jiminy piped up. The cricket looked to Amy and Harry. “So… who is he?”
Amy’s eyes narrowed. “An expert in genome theory. Brilliant, but dangerous.”
“Genome theory?” Donald echoed, tilting his head.
“Uhh… what’s that?” Goofy added, scratching his chin in thought.
Harry’s jaw tightened as he explained. “Genome theory argues that humanity’s own greed and self-destruction are dragging the world into chaos—wars, disasters, disease. Goldman twisted it. He thinks the only way forward is to ‘reshape’ humanity itself.” He gestured towards the dissolving green goo staining the cobblestones nearby. “And now he’s parading these things as proof of his theory.”
Amy’s voice cut in, low and steady. “Goldman doesn’t just to fund and study collapse. He wants to force it.”
“WAK!” Donald cried, feathers bristling in shock horror. “He’s nuts!”
“We gotta stop this guy!” Goofy declared, hefting his shield.
“You said it!” Jiminy chimed in, pumping a tiny fist.
“That’s the goal,” Amy affirmed, her eyes narrowing. She glanced down the crooked street, then back at them. “Goldman’s already making his move. And if we’re right… he’s using the old Colosseum as his stage.”
“Colosseum?” Goofy repeated, looking to her.
“That’s right,” Amy replied, gesturing down the street. “It’s not far from here.”
“Well, if that doesn’t sound like a plot hook, I don’t know what does,” Jiminy muttered, throwing his tiny arms up in a shrug.
“We may find the other agents,” Harry said firmly. “And maybe your allies too.”
Amy turned, already leading the way. “Stay sharp,” she called out, “the deeper we go, the worse it gets.”
“And more Heartless, I bet…” Donald sighed, shoulders drooping.
“Heartless…” Harry adjusted his shades and muttered under his breath. “…And here I thought the Curien’s mansion fiasco was hell.”
Donald side-eyed Goofy. “…Do I dare ask?”
Goofy only shrugged. Jiminy gave a little nod, and Donald just groaned loudly as they fell in step behind the AMS agents, heading deeper into the city.
Elsewhere in Venice…
Sora, Sonic, Gary, and James had pushed through several streets. The scenery shifted but never improved—cracked buildings, alleyways loomed like open maws, and the dim light overhead sputtered as if the city itself was watching.
“Feels like the shadows are watching us…” Sora muttered, eyes darting around.
“You’re not wrong,” Sonic said, ears twitching. “Stay sharp, buddy.”
The sound came first—low, wet dragging. Then the metallic click of armoured claws.
From the gloom ahead, a swarm of Shadows skittered across the plaza, yellow eyes bright. Soldiers materialised behind them, armour clanking in perfect rhythm. And behind them, a mixture of David and Stevens lurched into view.
“Lot of ‘em…” Gary muttered, pistols rising smoothly.
James braced beside him. “Hold your lines. Don’t get surrounded,” he remarked firmly.
The horde rushed in but so did our heroes.
“Sora!” Sonic barked.
“Here we go!”
[Darkness (Chapter 3) [Original Mode] House of the Dead 2 plays]
The Keyblade burst into light as Sora blurred forward, swiping aside a lunging Shadow before pivoting into a slash that cleaved a Soldier down the middle. Sonic dashed in alongside him, fists and kicks a blur as he tore through Shadows like a storm. He launched into a Homing Attack, scattering a cluster before corkscrewing into a fiery Spin Attack that detonated a Soldier mid-air, bursting it into darkness.
“Too hot to handle!” Sonic quipped, landing in a crouch with a grin.
Beside him, Sora cut clean arcs with the Keyblade, sparks of light crackling with every strike. A Soldier lunged—he parried, rolled, and snapped his weapon forward. “Fire!” Firebolts burst from the tip, exploding against the Heartless and scattering them in dark smoke. Another claw swiped at him—Sora pivoted, ice magic surging. “Deep Freeze!” The Heartless froze solid, only to shatter under his follow-up strike.
“Kid learns fast,” James remarked, double tapping an approaching David through the eye, green goo spurting out.
Gary barked, “Left flank!” then pivoted, dropping another with a single bullet to the skull.
The Steves hit next.
One thundered straight at Sora. He braced, raising the Keyblade instinctively—light shimmered across its edge. Guard! The brute’s fist slammed into his block, rattling his arms to the bone but holding firm. Sora shoved back and countered with a tight Slapshot combo—crack-crack-smash—that rocked the monster’s jaw.
“Seems Sora’s learning on the fly,” James noted, putting a round through a Shadow’s glowing eye. It burst into motes of darkness.
“Agreed,” Gary said, sidestepping a Soldier’s swipe and punting it away. “Nice work, kid.”
“Thanks—but these Steves are tough!” Sora warned, darting out of reach.
“No kidding!” Sonic growled. He launched himself chest-first into another Steve, staggering it, then curled into a blazing Homing Attack. His bracelet sparked—flames wreathed his Spin Dash as he drilled through its chest. The brute shrieked as fire seared deep.
Gary dropped a Soldier trying to flank him with a clean shot. “Nice save.”
James steadied his aim. “On your mark.”
Sonic smirked mid-spin. “Mark’s now!”
He rocketed clean through the stunned Steve, opening its skull. James triple-tapped in perfect sync—bang-bang-bang—and the brute toppled with a wet crash, dissolving into a pool of green muck.
Nearby, the second Steve swung wide. Sora ducked under its arm, sprinted up the wall, and vaulted high. He came down with a sharp overhead strike. “Take that!”
Sonic blurred in at his side, chaining a Phantom Rush—rapid-punches and kicks, doubles of the hedgehog slamming into the monster’s chest. Together, they staggered it long enough for Gary to plant a bullet in its temple. Sora followed with a burst of fire magic, the flames engulfing it until the brute collapsed hard, shaking the plaza as it dissolved.
The last Steve barrelled towards Gary. He swore loudly and raised his pistol, but Sora cut across the charge, striking upward to knock its head back. “Go!” Sonic vaulted high, curled tight, and slammed down like a meteor. The skull cracked—then the beast swayed, groaned, and dissolved.
Sora landed from his strike, chest heaving, arms buzzing from the recoil of the block he’d pulled off earlier. “…That was close.”
Sonic straightened, brushing off his gloves. Despite the carnage, his grin was back. “Close? Please. That was fun.”
Sora shot him a look, half tired, half incredulous. “Fun? Really?”
“Yeah—and look at it this way,” Sonic countered, pointing a gloved finger at him. “You pulled some sweet moves back there.”
“I… did?”
“Yeah. That block you threw up—smooth. And that combo right after? Pretty slick.”
Sora blinked, surprised. “You… think so?” For a moment he hesitated, then a small smile tugged at his face. He twirled the Keyblade once before letting it rest at his side. “Heh, well… I guess I’m getting better.”
“Someone’s levelling up,” Sonic said, smirk softening into approval. “Great job, Sora.”
Gary, calmly sliding a fresh clip into his pistol, gave the boy a nod. “Not bad. Held your line when it counted. That’s more than most.”
“Yeah,” James agreed, holstering one pistol while keeping the other sweeping across the shadows. “You did good. But don’t get cocky—these things aren’t running out.”
Sora exhaled, nerves finally settling. “…Still. We made it.”
“For now,” James corrected. “But we can’t keep trading blows in the open. Not with waves like that.”
Sonic tilted his head, smirk tugging. “You saying we need a breather?”
“Yes,” James replied evenly. “Time to regroup. Get a plan together before the next swarm hits.”
“Good idea,” Gary said, scanning the crooked lane. He raised his pistol, then pointed with his free hand. “There. That building. That should do…”
The others followed his gesture. A hulking silhouette rose—an old library. Its windows were spiderwebbed and shattered, its doors sagged on rusted hinges, yet it still stood stubborn against the ruin.
Sonic arched a brow. “A library? In this dump?”
Gary’s voice was flat. “Better than bleeding out in the street.”
“Can’t argue with that,” James added, already moving toward it.
Sora adjusted his grip on the Keyblade, giving a small nod. “Works for me.” A Soldier Heartless staggered from an alley, claws raised—but Sora met it with a clean slash. It burst into smoke with a hiss, leaving only silence. “Alright. Let’s move.”
They sprinted across the street, boots splashing through stagnant puddles. The library loomed larger with every step, its broken façade promising either shelter… or another nightmare waiting inside.
[Darkness (Chapter 3) stops playing]
When the group entered the library, the smell of damp paper and mildew, every breath thick with dust. Light leaked through shattered windows, catching clouds that drifted like ash. Books lay torn across the floor, their spines broken. Shelves leaned precariously, some collapsed entirely, leaving the aisles jagged with splinters and rubble.
“This place is a wreck…” Sonic muttered, nose wrinkling. His voice echoed too loudly for comfort.
“Eyes open,” James warned, pistol raised as he swept the shadows. “These places make good nests.”
A faint sound broke the silence. A groan that sounded like someone was in pain.
Sora stiffened. “One of those monsters?”
James signalled with two fingers, the other hand on his weapon. “Cover me.” He moved ahead; steps light despite the debris crunching underfoot.
The sound came again—closer, strained. James rounded a leaning shelf, froze, and hissed sharply: “Over here!”
The others hurried up, and what they found made Sonic’s quills prickle and Sora jolt up in shock surprise.
Slumped against a collapsed bookcase sat a man in distress. Blood soaked through the fabric at his side, staining the ground beneath him. His hand pressed firm against the wound, but his fingers were slick and red.
“G!” James barked, holstering his pistol and rushing to his side. Gary was right behind him.
The man looked up, lips tugging into a weak smirk despite the pallor in his face. “James… Gary… took you long enough.”
“Hang on, G,” Gary said quickly, dropping to one knee. He checked the wound with a grimace. “What the hell happened?”
“That damn imp,” G rasped, voice harsh. “Zeal. Ambushed me. Sick little bastard sent those dark things at me just for the fun of it.” He coughed hard, pain cutting his words short.
“The Heartless,” Gary clarified grimly.
“Heartless…” G spat the word, jaw tight. “More like Goldman’s new toys.”
James’ brow furrowed. “Goldman’s behind the Heartless?”
“Yes…” G hissed as another wave of pain hit. “One of ’em caught me in the side. As you can see.” His hand slipped slightly, crimson leaking fresh between his fingers.
“Damn it,” Gary muttered under his breath. He pressed his own hand over G’s to staunch the bleeding.
“Stay with us,” James urged, eyes darting across the ruined room. “There’s gotta be a first-aid kit here somewhere…”
A few steps back, Sora and Sonic stood watching. The boy’s hands gripped the Keyblade tight at his side, his chest tight with worry. Sonic’s green eyes flicked between G and the agents, then to Sora, and saw the determination burning there.
Sora swallowed hard. “…Goldman.” The name tasted bitter on his tongue. His concern for G sharpened into something brighter—unyielding. His youthful righteousness flared in his eyes. “We can’t let him get away with this, Sonic. We have to stop him—and the Heartless.”
Sonic’s frown deepened, his usual bravado absent. He nodded firmly. “Yeah. Goldman’s messing with forces he doesn’t understand. And if he keeps going…” His gaze drifted toward the dark shelves looming over them. “This whole world’s gonna sink into darkness.”
Hearing the two speak, G turned his head. His eyes, sharp even through the pain, studied the boy first, then the hedgehog. They narrowed slightly. “And… who are you supposed to be?”
Sora stepped forward, offering a small smile despite the tension. “I’m Sora.” He gestured to his side. “And this is Sonic.”
Sonic gave a firm nod, arms folded, quills still bristling from the fight.
“They’ve been helping us,” James added, scanning the ruined shelves for anything useful. “Those Heartless and Goldman’s freaks didn’t stand a chance with these two in the mix.”
G let out a weak chuckle, gripping Sora’s hand in a surprisingly firm clasp. “Then I owe you big time—for backing up my team.”
But as his eyes slid down to the Keyblade still glowing faintly in Sora’s grip, his features sharpened. The curiosity was short-lived—his body jolted, pain ripping through him. He hissed, slumping back against the collapsed bookcase.
“G!” James snapped, abandoning his search.
“Stop shifting around,” Gary muttered, pressing harder against the wound. “You’re just making it worse.”
Sora winced at the sight of blood seeping between Gary’s fingers. His free hand dipped quickly into a pouch at his side. Fingers brushed something smooth and cool. He pulled it out without hesitation and hurried over.
“Here—take this!” he said urgently, holding out a small vial. Its contents glowed faintly green, light rippling against the gloom of the library.
Both agents froze, staring. G’s tired eyes narrowed, a sardonic edge sneaking into his tone. “…And what the hell is that supposed to be?”
“A potion,” Sora explained quickly, holding it out closer. His expression was earnest but firm. “Trust me—it’ll work.”
James hesitated for a moment before moving to Sora and taking the vial. He then pressed it into G’s free hand. “Here, boss.”
Suspicion lingered for a heartbeat, but G uncorked it and took a swig. His eyes widened. “Gah… tastes like… mint tea?”
Sonic leaned back on his heels, folding his arms with a grin. “Can’t say I agree with you there—never been one for sipping the stuff. Usually, I see those things tossed in the air like confetti. Boom—instant heal, battlefield glittered green and all.”
Gary’s brow arched. “You throw glass vials of liquid into the air? Isn’t that… dangerous?”
“Not as dangerous as zombies trying to take a chunk outta your face—or those Heartless sweeping through the city,” Sonic argued, one hand now on his hip, the other gesturing wide. “So yeah—glass in the air or getting eaten alive? I’ll take the glass every time.”
James smirked. “He’s got you there, Gary.”
“…Touché,” Gary conceded.
The potion began to work almost immediately. G’s breathing steadied, the tremors easing as the wound sealed, blood evaporating like water under sunlight. His eyes widened in disbelief. “…I’ll be damned. It’s working.”
“Not bad, huh?” Sonic said, cocky grin plastered on his muzzle. He wagged a finger playfully. “Beats bleeding out in a mouldy library or trusting a first-aid kit that probably expired during the Stone Age.”
G barked out a small laugh, shaking his head. “I feel ten years younger.”
“Careful,” Sonic quipped, smirk sharpening. “Couple more of those and you’ll be sprinting laps with me.”
“I take it you’re fast?” G asked, rising shakily to his feet with James and Gary steadying him. He waved them off and fixed his gaze on the hedgehog.
“You could say that,” Sonic replied, cocky as ever.
Gary gave a curt nod. “Sonic’s speed is nothing I’ve ever seen before.”
“Speedsters…” G chuckled low. “They’re all the same.”
Sonic shrugged, quills twitching. “Comes with the territory.”
But G’s eyes shifted, settling on Sora and the Keyblade in his hands. His tone dropped lower, curiosity threaded with something heavier. “Tell me, Sora… that’s a Keyblade, isn’t it?”
Sora’s eyes widened, his grip tightening. “Wait—you know about it?”
Gary blinked, caught off guard. “G, you’ve seen that thing before?”
The veteran agent gave a subtle shrug, his face unreadable. “Let’s just say… I may know something.”
“That’s not exactly an answer,” Sonic muttered, rolling his eyes.
“Bit cryptic if you ask me,” James admitted, eyeing the weapon with interest.
Sora stepped forward, voice firm. “Yeah. Why don’t you start making sense?”
“In time,” G said, cutting the tension short. He scanned the ruined shelves and the shadows that clung to the corners of the library. His voice was low, deliberate. “Right now… Goldman has to be stopped.”
“G’s right,” James added, squaring his shoulders. “Goldman needs to answer for his crimes. And with the Heartless in the mix, his whole operation must be shut down.”
G nodded once. “The last piece of intel I had was the Colosseum. Goldman’s making his move there.”
“Colosseum, huh…” Sonic rubbed his chin, then frowned. “Wonder if Donald, Goofy, and Jiminy are heading that way too.”
Sora shrugged. “Wouldn’t surprise me.”
“Friends of yours?” G asked, his sharp eyes flicking between them.
“Yeah,” Sonic said. Then, with a wry glance toward Sora, added, “Not so sure about Donald at the moment—with Sora, anyway.”
Sora huffed, his free hand on his hip, a big frown etched across his face.
That earned the faintest smirk from G. “Difficult teammate?”
“You wouldn’t believe…” Sora muttered.
G let out a rough, rasping chuckle. “Oh, I’d know. Believe me.” He tilted his head toward James and Gary, the smirk tugging at his lips. “Join the club, Sora.”
“Hey!” both agents shot back in unison.
That broke the tension. Sora let out a small laugh, his hand dropping from his hip. Sonic grinning wide beside him.
“If you’re done mocking us, boss,” James said dryly, “Amy and Harry are still out there.”
G’s tone grew firm again. “And odds are, they’re heading to the Colosseum too.”
“Then we shouldn’t waste time,” Gary agreed. “We’ll find everyone in one sweep.”
“Works for me,” Sonic said, already heading towards the broken doors. “C’mon, rookie,” waving to Sora to follow, “no time to stand around.”
“Right,” Sora replied giving a quick nod. Keyblade at the ready.
The group began moving, footsteps echoing across the ruined floor. James and Gary kept their eyes sharp, Sonic light on his feet, Sora right beside him.
But G lingered for a moment, watching them leave. His gaze settled on the Keyblade in Sora’s hand. He studied it, recognition flickering across his features. Slowly, he nodded.
“…Just like a decade ago,” he murmured to himself. “I knew I’d cross paths with a wielder again.” His breath shuddered out, a name whispered under it. “The Papa Caesar incident… it all comes around full circle.”
“G! You coming?” James called back.
“Yes,” G replied, forcing strength into his stride as he followed. But in his mind, a single thought coiled tight: “Is this boy truly up to the task… like the others who came before him?”
The library doors creaked open, spilling them back into the darkness of Venice’s hellish streets.
Notes:
And that’s Part 2 done!
Hope you enjoyed this one, and thanks again to everyone supporting the remastered story. The more I read through the original, the more I notice the rough edges — a lot of young and rushed writing. I had a habit in my early writing days to write in English US... when I live in the UK aha! I've changed this and always try to keep it UK now. One big lesson I’ve learnt though is to check, check, and check again.
The first story got a lot of love, and I’m proud of what I achieved with it. But part of me wishes I’d slowed down the process back then, taken time to comb through carefully, and released chapters at a steadier, slower pace with better quality writing. They’d have been broader and stronger for it. Still — live and learn, aha!
This chapter introduces G properly — one of my favourite House of the Dead characters. There are mentions of the first game and the Curien Mansion incident, with a nod to the Magician, plus a reference to Papa Caesar and HOTD: Overkill. If you’ve followed the original story and the saga, you’ll recognise the hints in what G says.
A notable change from the original draft is that the Moogle has been removed from the library. Don’t worry — it’ll make an appearance in the next chapter.
Looking to drop Part 3 in the next week or so. My goal is to have the whole HOTD2 arc wrapped up by the end of September. We’ll also get a small side story running alongside Part 3 over in Traverse Town — and if you’ve read the first story, you’ll know who shows up.
Thanks as always — see you in the next one!
Chapter 11: Città Morta di Venezia (House of the Dead 2) Part 3: Judgment
Summary:
When Sora, Sonic, and the AMS agents face a new threat, Goldman hatches a scheme powerful enough to make even the Heartless bow. Meanwhile, Traverse Town sees the arrival of a silent, stoic visitor—one who could change everything.
Notes:
And we’re back again!
This one’s a bit shorter, but we’ve officially hit the halfway mark of the Venice arc. I hope you’re enjoying the remaster so far—it’s been such a fun journey revisiting this story.
As always, thank you for the support. It truly means the world to me.
There are a few notes at the end, but for now, please enjoy!”
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
On Route to the Colosseum (Sora & Sonic)
The desolate streets of Venice stretched endlessly, silence broken only by the group’s footsteps on the damp cobblestones as they entered another large town square, surrounded by buildings that had seen better days. The grey sky threatened to burst open, the smell of rain mixing with the stagnant waters of the canals lingered.
They came to a halt at a signpost, once meant for tourists, now a weathered relic.
North: Colosseum — 2.5km
East: Canals 0.75km / Sunset Bridge 2km / Wharf 3km
South: Library — 1.5km
West: Clock Tower — 3km
“Not much further now,” James said, gesturing towards the northward path.
“Hopefully our other agents are there,” G added firmly, then cast a glance towards Sora and Sonic. “Alongside your missing allies.”
“I sure hope so, G,” Sonic admitted, green eyes scanning the empty streets filled with abandoned shops and vehicles. “The sooner we get back together, the better chance we’ve got against this Goldman creep.”
Sora nodded, gripping the Kingdom Key tightly at his side. He still wasn’t sure how he felt about reuniting with Donald just yet—but Sonic was right. They did work better together; they proved that in Traverse Town and in Wonderland.
“Smart thinking,” G muttered, his gaze sweeping across the crooked alleyways, hand resting close to his weapon. James and Gary mirrored him, every sense taut.
The square went silent for a moment—until the air split with a screeching, high-pitched voice that clawed at their ears.
“The AMS!”
Sora’s head snapped upward, blue eyes narrowing as he tightened his grip on the Keyblade. Sonic’s ears twitched, his confident grin slipping into a frown. The three AMS agents looked up as well, recognising the voice immediately. It was as familiar as it was unbearable—like nails dragged across a chalk board.
“Not this thing again,” Gary muttered, hand already on his pistol.
“It’s that damn imp!” James spat, drawing his firearm in a flash.
“You mean Zeal, right?” Sonic asked, slipping into a defensive stance.
“Yes,” G said simply, his tone calm but firm.
From above, Zeal swooped into view, wings beating erratically as he hovered above the ruined square. His twisted grin stretched wide, eyes burning with cruel delight.
“Miss me, agents?” he crooned, his jagged voice scraping like glass on stone.
“Not really,” Gary shot back, raising his gun.
“Silence!” Zeal shrieked, wings snapping with a sharp crack.
“Make us!” James retorted, loud and defiant.
“Foolish mortals,” the imp sneered, locking eyes on G. The veteran stood calm, unflinching, pistol already raised. “Ahh, G… you survived. A pity. I should’ve let the Heartless finish the job.”
“You should’ve,” G said coldly, finger steady on the trigger. “But you didn’t.”
Zeal snarled, twisting midair. His jagged wings beat harder. “Arrogant fools… always clinging to defiance when you should be begging for mercy!”
Sonic tilted his head, utterly unimpressed. One hand rested on his hip, the other spinning a lazy finger in the air. “Begging for mercy? Buddy, you’ll be the one begging once I’m done running circles around you.” The hedgehog smirked with cocky bravado. “And by the way—your voice? Yikes. You sound like someone strangling a kazoo.”
“What?!” Zeal shrieked, his voice splitting the air like broken glass. The sound made everyone wince. “You dare mock my voice?!”
“I do,” Sonic shot back without missing a beat, smirk sharp as ever.
“But a kazoo?” Gary muttered, baffled, giving the hedgehog a side glance. “That’s the best insult you had?”
Sora half-grimaced, half-grinned, lowering his Keyblade for a second. “Seriously, Sonic? That’s all you’ve got?”
“Thought you’d come up with a better quip than that,” James added dryly.
Sonic rolled his shoulders, bringing up his fists. “Hey, cut me some slack—I’m workin’ with what I got here. Besides…” His smirk widened, eyes narrowing at Zeal. “It clearly got under their skin.”
Zeal spun towards him with a piercing shriek. “I said silence!”
“Yeah, yeah, I heard you the first time,” Sonic fired back, smirk never fading. “Guess you’re not big on variety either.”
The imp bristled, claws twitching as its glare burned into him. “I’ll show you variety soon enough!”
Sonic half-closed his eyes, utterly unimpressed—only proving his point.
Zeal’s gaze slid away from the hedgehog, settling on the boy beside him. The air thickened as its voice dropped lower, dark, and deliberate. “…So it's true. The Keyblade wielder stands before me. Just as the master foretold.”
“Goldman…” G said darkly, disdain in his tone.
Sora raised the Kingdom Key, heart hammering in his chest. “If you think I’ll let you—or your master—stop us, you’re wrong!”
“Oh, we’re not here to stop you,” Zeal said, his grin curdling into something crueller. “We’re here to bury you!"
The square shuddered. Darkness rippled outward, cracking the cobblestones as an emblem seared itself into the ground—the jagged red crest of the Heartless burning like a brand.
“What the hell is this!” G spat, adjusting his stance, looking down at the red light.
“Heartless!” Sora shouted, crouching low into his defensive stance.
“It’s their symbol,” Sonic muttered, bouncing on his feet, ready to rumble.
“Figures…” James sighed, gun rising.
Zeal shrieked, voice splitting the storm-thick sky. “Rise, Kuarl! Let them taste despair!”
“Kuarl?!” James shouted out, demanding answers.
“I think we’re about to find out…” Gary said firmly.
The group took a few steps back as the blazing Heartless emblem began to pool with darkness, shadows erupted and fused into form—rising higher, heavier, until the very square shook beneath its weight.
What emerged was a hulking abomination. Its frame was swathed in crude armour plates, every edge scarred and dented. Ancient, rotting bandages clung to its limbs, stretched tight around slabs of muscle that pulsed with darkness. Spikes jutted from its shoulders, wrists, and knees, each one wicked and jagged, as though designed only for suffering.
Where its head should have been, there was nothing—only a yawning void of blackness, impossible and unearthly. Yet from that absence came a sound: a hollow, guttural moan that rumbled across the square. The noise defied logic, carrying no breath, no mouth—just a suffocating echo that rattled bone and soul alike.
Despite its staggering bulk, the monster’s axe—massive, caked in dried blood—rested easily in its powerful grip. The weapon gleamed with fresh malice in the dim light of the square.
“That thing’s huge!” Gary gasped, pistol already raised toward the towering form.
Sonic’s eyes widened, then narrowed into a grin that didn’t quite mask the unease beneath. “And ugly. Real ugly.”
Sora’s heart pounded faster as he raised the Keyblade in a tight defensive stance. The red and black emblem flared across the monster’s chest, confirming what his instincts already screamed. “Just like Traverse Town… just like Wonderland,” he thought, memories of the Guard Armor and Trickmaster flashing through his mind. “This is gonna be tough.”
“Show them your strength!” Zeal shrieked from above, wings thrashing the air.
Kuarl obeyed. The axe slammed down with an ear-splitting crack, cobblestones erupting into shards. Sora dove aside, fragments pelting his arms. Sonic blurred into motion, yanking Gary clear by the jacket as James and G moved to safety.
“Open fire!” James barked, snapping off a burst of rounds. Bullets sparked uselessly against Kuarl’s armoured chest. The monster moaned, a hollow, gurgling sound that carried no breath yet rattled the air like a death knell. “That did nothing!”
“Damn!” Gary uttered, but his eyes widened as he saw Kuarl beginning to stomp towards them again. “Move!”
Kuarl lumbered forward, shattering the ground beneath its weight. With terrifying ease, it swept its axe sideways towards James. The agent rolled clear just in time, the blade cleaving through two derelict cars. Metal screamed and twisted as the vehicles crumpled like paper, one flipping end over end before slamming through a storefront in a burst of dust and shattered glass.
Sonic skidded back into stance, eyes blazing. “Okay, so… this lummox is gonna be a real problem!”
“It’s like a walking army!” Gary shouted, glancing towards James. The other agent gave a tight nod.
“No,” G said, voice low but firm, his eyes narrowing. “It’s Judgment.”
Sora risked a glance, still keeping the brute in his sights. “Judgment?”
“They’re a duo,” G explained, reloading with a sharp snap. “Kuarl’s the muscle, Zeal’s the brain. They’re linked—telekinetically. Hit Kuarl all you want, but it won’t do much damage. The only way to stop him is to bring down Zeal.”
James scowled, firing again. The bullets pinging off the large foe. “Easier said than done. The imp’s using Kuarl as a moving wall.”
“Exactly,” G confirmed. “Kuarl soaks the damage. Zeal darts around—faster and faster the more desperate he gets.”
“Then that’s our target,” Sora said, Keyblade pointing towards the circling imp. His voice steadied with resolve. “Take down or stagger Zeal, and Kuarl goes down with him!"
Kuarl’s axe thundered down again, smashing deep into the cobblestones. The shockwave rippled across the square, sending cracks spiderwebbing through the ground. Rubble sprayed in every direction as the group scattered once more.
“Keep moving!” G ordered, his tone cutting through the chaos. “Stay still, and we’re good as dead.”
“Got it!” Sora called back, determination burning in his blue eyes.
The monster’s moans reverberated as Zeal laughed above, revelling in the carnage. The square was no longer just ruins—it was an arena.
And the fight against Judgment had begun.
JUDGMENT (Kuarl and Zeal duo)
Battle Music: Shrouding Dark Cloud – KH HD 1.5 Re:MiX
The headless giant stomped forward, its axe carving a black arc through the air. Kuarl’s hollow moans rattled through its armour, reverberating like a funeral bell across the plaza.
Sora darted left, Keyblade raised. His eyes locked on the glowing emblem seared into Kuarl’s chest. “Fire!” A blazing shot burst from the weapon’s tip and struck dead-centre, staggering the brute with a shuddering groan.
“Good hit!” James barked, snapping off shots at Zeal. The imp twisted and swerved, cackling as the bullets whizzed past. “Damn thing—stay still!”
Sonic zipped forward, a blur of blue. He sprang into a homing kick, smashing Kuarl’s chest with a spark of impact. The Heartless stumbled, but only for a heartbeat before grinding forward again.
Above, Zeal swooped low, his screeching laugh ringing in the air. He flitted around Kuarl’s armoured shoulders, weaving through the storm of gunfire. “Pathetic! Your offensive is nothing before Judgment!”
“Little freak!” Gary spat, side-stepping and firing in rhythm with James.
“Don’t listen to him!” G barked, finally raising his pistol. He held fire, eyes sharp on the pair. “Focus. Remember what I told you—Zeal’s the link! Kuarl’s just the muscle!”
“Got it!” Sora called back. He rolled under a sweeping axe strike. Coming out of the roll, he sprinted again, Keyblade resting on his shoulder as he ran.
James and Gary fanned out, firing in perfect sync. Their bullets forced Zeal into frantic loops. Then—crack! A round clipped the imp’s wing.
“Ahhh!” Zeal shrieked, clutching himself.
Kuarl froze mid-step, body lurching as if its strings had been cut. The invisible bond between them faltered.
“Now!” G barked.
Sonic curled into a Spin Dash, rocketing forward. His balled form smashed into Kuarl’s chest, the giant Heartless reeling back under the sudden impact.
Sora seized the moment. Using Kuarl’s stagger for leverage, he vaulted high—Keyblade ready. He unleashed a flurry of slashes across Zeal’s body. One, two, three! Each strike ripped a shriek from the imp before Sora spun for a heavy final blow, knocking him back before gravity dragged him down. He landed hard, knees bent to absorb the landing.
“Nice offensive!” G barked, voice cutting above the chaos. He still hadn’t fired a shot—every inch the tactician, tracking for the pattern. “Keep pressing them!”
Another volley cracked through the plaza. One round clipped Zeal again, the imp shrieking as his form stuttered midair. Kuarl staggered with him, the invisible tether dragging both into a momentary freeze.
But the staccato rhythm ended—click, click. James and Gary’s pistols ran dry.
Sonic’s smirk widened. He sprinted past them. “RELOAD!” he bellowed, mimicking the arcade bark to perfection.
James groaned, snapping a fresh clip in. “Seriously, hedgehog?!”
“Sure am!” Sonic shot back with a grin, vaulting high. He blurred into a Phantom Rush, afterimages hammering Kuarl from every angle—punches, kicks, elbows, knees, each strike a drumbeat of speed and force. Sparks rained from the giant’s chest as the combo drove it backwards.
“Focus, people!” G snapped, finally squeezing his trigger. His shot cracked through Zeal’s chest, making the imp screech in agony. “Jokes later—survival now!”
Sora darted in as Sonic landed, Keyblade pointed straight at Kuarl’s Heartless emblem. “Deep Freeze!” Ice surged out, small jagged shards slamming into the monster. The brute staggered back with a groan, vapour hissing from its frame.
Sonic landed beside Sora, dusting off his gloves with a cocky grin. He jerked a thumb upwards at Zeal, still weaving clumsily under G’s fire. “What about him? Pretty sure he could use a little chill, too.”
Sora chuckled, then sprinted forward. He leapt high, the Keyblade flashing as he pointed it toward the fluttering imp. “Blizzard!” A shard of ice burst forth, smashing into Zeal’s chest. Frost spread across his right wing, locking him midair. The imp shrieked, nearly dropping from the sky.
“Nice!” James called, snapping off a round that clipped Zeal’s shoulder before he could recover.
The imp hissed, wings trembling violently. With a screech, he managed to spin free of and dove back towards Kuarl. The hulking giant lurched forward again, every step like a drumbeat. Its axe swept sideways with brutal force, cleaving through a line of cars. Metal shrieked as a vehicle flipped end over end, slamming into a wall with an ear-splitting crunch.
“It’s tearing the whole square apart!” James shouted, ducking for cover.
“That’s the point,” G growled, eyes narrowing. “Zeal hides in the chaos. Pin him down, Kuarl breaks!”
Sora planted his feet, heart pounding as he raised the Keyblade. “Fire!” Small flame balls burst from the tip, streaking across the square and grazing Zeal’s left wing. The imp screeched, spinning wildly. Kuarl faltered mid-swing, the massive axe clanging uselessly to the ground.
“Nice shot!” Sonic grinned, his bracelet sparking with heat. “My turn!”
Activating his bracelet, flames roared across Sonic’s gloves as he launched forward in a fiery Phantom Rush. Blazing fists and feet slammed into Kuarl’s armoured legs in a dizzying flurry—strike after strike hammering the giant back. Sparks and embers rained as the hulking Heartless stumbled, its balance broken.
Zeal shrieked in pain above, flailing helplessly, still trying to shake off the cold from Sora’s earlier attack.
“NOW!” G barked, his voice a razor edge.
All three agents fired. Bullets ripped across the square, clipping Zeal’s side and sending him shrieking into a furious spin.
Kuarl roared with its hollow moan, staggering violently before collapsing to one knee.
“Keep at him!” Sora shouted, charging forward. He vaulted high, Keyblade flashing down in a heavy strike towards the imp.
Zeal shrieked, wings snapping wide. Kuarl moved instantly—grabbing its axe and swinging it up in a brutal guard. The haft slammed against the Keyblade with bone-rattling force, knocking Sora off-balance and hurling him back. He hit the ground hard but rolled into a recovery, teeth gritted.
“You’ll never separate us!” Zeal cackled, voice cracking under strain. “Together, we are unstoppable!”
But desperation bled into his movements. His spins grew frantic, his flight erratic as he swerved through the storm of bullets. Then—Bang! A round from James tore through his side. Zeal howled, his wings spasming. The tether snapped for a heartbeat.
“NO!” the imp hissed.
“What was that about unstoppable?” Sora taunted, crouched low in a defensive stance.
Kuarl froze. The hulking body faltered mid-step, then crashed face-first into the cobblestones with a thunderous quake. The axe clattered beside it, stone splitting on impact. The headless giant lay still, out of action for now.
“No, no, NO!” Zeal screeched, hovering above. “You can’t—I won’t fall here!”
Sonic cracked his neck, cocky smirk back in place. “Looks like we’ve clipped your wings.”
“Don’t get cocky,” G shouted, eyes narrowing as he tracked the imp. “This isn’t over.”
Zeal’s form convulsed, darkness seeping like cracks through glass. His body quivered, trembling with unstable energy. Then, with a piercing shriek that rattled the whole square, he tucked his wings and dive-bombed straight down.
“DIE!”
“Guys, move!” Sora shouted, his voice breaking across the square as the group leapt in every direction.
The imp tore across the square in a wild zigzag, his speed doubled, his small frame harder to pin than ever. He shifted erratically—sometimes bobbing up and down in a straight charge, sometimes veering diagonally from the left or right, sometimes weaving left to right like a sawblade.
“Fast little bastard, ain’t he?!” James barked, firing and missing as Zeal whirled past.
“Then we match speed!” Sonic shot forward in a streak of blue, intercepting one of Zeal’s charges with a Homing Attack. The imp screeched as the hedgehog slammed into him, his body shuddering with pain.
But the reprieve didn’t last for long.
Zeal recovered with a vicious spin and darted skyward, then dropped like a meteor. The impact slammed full force into Sora, the boy crying out as he crashed into the ground.
“SORA!” Sonic skidded to his side. "Talk to me buddy!"
"Gaah..." Sora groaned, laying on the floor.
“You okay, kid?!” Gary barked, firing up at the imp.
“Any chance we’ve got any potions?” James snapped, squeezing off another shot.
Sonic frantically patted through his quills, searching for something—anything. He came up empty, jaw tight.
G’s gaze flicked from Sora to Zeal—and his expression darkened. “He’s planning something!”
Above, Zeal laughed manically. He beat his wings then surged higher into the sky. Shadows rippled outward as Kuarl’s broken form twitched… and began to rise, the headless giant groaning back onto its feet, axe back in his hand.
“Great,” Sonic muttered, fists clenching.
Sora lay groaning, every muscle screaming. Darkness clawed at the edges of his vision—yet his heart burned brighter in defiance. “I can’t… give up.” With a ragged breath, he pushed himself upright, Keyblade trembling in his grip.
“Sora?” Sonic asked, eyes wide.
The boy’s answer was raw, defiant. “No… we won’t lose here!”
A crimson aura exploded around him, flickering like fire. Sora's Berserk ability had awoken.
Without a word, Sora lunged at breakneck speed. The Keyblade carved arcs through the air, each swing slamming into Kuarl’s chest. Rapid slashes blurred together, chaining into a storm that left the giant staggering, unable to defend itself. “Take THAT!” Sora roared. His final strike ripped across Kuarl’s chest, a shockwave of light bursting outward. The headless giant reeled, black smoke hissing from the gash as its whole frame staggered under the ferocity of the assault.
“NOOO!” Zeal squealed, voice cracking into a shrill screech.
“Holy hell!” Gary blurted, eyes wide.
“You see that speed?!” James exclaimed, disbelief edging into awe. "Sonic's got competition."
"Looks like it!" Sonic admitted.
G watched in silence, calm even in the chaos. When he finally spoke, his voice was low, measured. “Some sort of Berserker state… awakened at the perfect time.”
“I’ll say!” Gary said loudly.
Sonic stared at Sora, genuine surprise flickering in his eyes—before his trademark grin broke through. He jerked a thumb skywards, quills bristling with excitement. “Not bad. But don’t stop now, Sora. You owe that screeching freak one, don’t ya?”
Hearing him, Sora’s head snapped upwards. Zeal fluttered erratically above, fear flashing in his tiny eyes. Without a word, Sora bent his knees and launched skyward, Berserk aura flaring around him.
The Keyblade cut the air in a storm of savage arcs—strike after strike. Each blow landed with merciless weight, battering the imp higher into the air, giving him no chance to recover. Zeal’s shrieks broke into pained gasps, his wings beating unevenly as darkness leaked from his body in trembling wisps.
“Mast…Master Goldman…” Zeal whimpered, voice cracking with desperation. “Forgive me… I… failed you…”
“End it, kid!” G called out, his tone absolute.
Sora didn’t hesitate. He raised the Keyblade high and brought it down in a strike that carried all his will. Light ripped through the imp’s body, tearing shadow from shadow. Zeal’s scream split the square as his form unravelled, dissolving into a storm of darkness that scattered into the grey clouds above.
“Way to go, Sora!” Sonic whooped, springing up and bumping his gloved fist. His grin was wide, proud of his friend.
James’s gaze snapped from the fading particles to Kuarl. “Look!” he shouted, pistol raised towards the hulking Heartless.
All eyes turned. The giant convulsed, the tether finally broken. Its armoured frame staggered, then crashed to its knees. The massive axe clattered beside it with a deafening ring, echoing across the square. Darkness bled from its seams in black rivers before the entire body collapsed, bursting into fragments of black particles.
From its hollow chest, a freed Heart rose slowly, glowing with soft light. The group watched in silence as it floated upward, vanishing into the sky above.
Sora landed lightly from his final assault. He stared skyward, chest heaving, eyes fixed on the drifting Heart. "Another freed…no longer in the grip of the Heartless—or Goldman.”
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: A
Sonic smirked. “Heh. A-Rank.” He crouched slightly, fists pressed into his sides, before bouncing once, flipping sideways, and twisting his upper body into a dramatic thumbs-up. “Cool!”
Sora couldn’t help but laugh, though his shoulders sagged and his chest still burned from the Berserk state. He scratched the back of his head sheepishly. “A-Rank? …What, because I got hit?”
Sonic only grinned and said nothing.
Sora frowned a little, then chuckled. “Well… guess that’s fair. I did get hit hard.” He answered his own question with a shrug.
G tilted his head at the bizarre display, glancing to James and Gary. “…Is this normal behaviour?”
James holstered his pistol with a sigh. “Yes. Believe it or not, this is normal.”
Gary nodded dryly. “We had it earlier.”
“…Right,” G muttered, rubbing his temple.
With Judgment defeated, the group huddled together, catching their breath. All eyes drifted to Sora, who was still trembling from the come-down. The Keyblade dissolved in his hand, leaving only his shaky fingers and unsteady stance.
“You okay there, buddy?” Sonic asked, voice carrying genuine concern as he planted his hands on his hips.
Sora nodded, though weariness lingered. “Yeah… I think so. That power boost, though… that was something else.”
“Looks like you tapped into some hidden strength,” James said, tone firm.
"I did?" Sora asked in surprised.
“Yeah, it gave you the push to shut Zeal up once and for all,” Gary added with a nod.
“Not to mention, you tore through Kuarl like it was nothing,” Sonic said with a wide grin. He pulled one hand from his hip and held out a gloved fist. “Nice moves, Sora. You earned this.”
Sora’s tired smile grew as he bumped his fist against Sonic’s.
“A fist pump, huh?” Gary mused, arching a brow. He turned to James and offered his own fist.
James looked at him. Then at the fist. Then back again—expression flat as stone. “No.”
“Oh, come on!” Gary protested, nudging his fist closer.
James adjusted his tie, deadpan. “We are agents of the AMS. We do not fist pump.”
Gary lowered his hand with a groan. “…Fine. But one of these days, you’re gonna crack.”
“Not today,” James replied coolly.
Sonic snorted out a laugh, and even Sora chuckled through his exhaustion. Even G cracked a small smirk. The senior agent’s expression sobered as he turned back to Sora.
“Even after that hard hit you took, you pushed through,” he remarked firmly. “Learn from that ability. Use it wisely.”
“I will,” Sora said firmly, pressing a hand to his chest. He glanced down, thoughtful. “I guess… I really am getting stronger.” Beneath his gloved palm, his heart pulsed with more than just strength. There was warmth there—gentle, familiar, as if someone far away was reaching for him.
“Looks like you are,” Sonic agreed, his tone soft but encouraging. “But G’s right. Figure out how that works. My guess—it’s a boost that kicks in when you take heavy damage. Could save your skin if you learn to control it.”
“Maybe…” Sora murmured, lowering his hand. His gaze lifted again, more determined. “But we only won because we worked together. That’ll show the Heartless—and Goldman—that—”
“That teamwork makes the dream work,” G cut in, giving Sora an approving nod.
“Right you are,” Sonic said, snapping his fingers and pointing at him. “Or y’know… we could just call it friendship.”
G gave the faintest amused exhale, the corner of his mouth twitching.
Sora smiled faintly. “The power of friendship really does help a lot.”
“Speaking of,” Sonic looked towards him with a sly grin. “You gonna apologise when we find Donald?”
Sora huffed, his shoulders slumping. “…I should, shouldn’t I?”
“Takes the bigger guy to do it,” Sonic said, voice softening.
“True words,” Gary agreed, giving a nod of approval.
G muttered dryly, “Let’s just hope this Donald’s in a forgiving mood.”
That earned a laugh from Sonic, and even Sora cracked a sheepish grin.
James cleared his throat, snapping the moment back to business. “Anyway—we’d better get moving towards the Colosseum. With any luck, we’ll find supplies along the way. Potions wouldn’t hurt.”
“Good idea,” Sora said, resolve steady in his voice. “And I’m sure we’ll run into everyone as well.”
“Let’s move,” G declared, turning north.
The rest followed, their footsteps echoing through the ruined square as the Colosseum loomed somewhere in the distance.
Elsewhere - Goldman's Headquarters
In his dimly lit office, Caleb Goldman stood before the window, hands clasped behind his back. Beyond the glass stretched the ruined complex of his headquarters: jagged rooftops and the endless veil of grey skies pressing down.
“Useless,” Goldman muttered, the words falling flat, cold. “That wretch Zeal… nothing more than a screeching insect. And the headless brute?” His tone didn’t rise, didn’t shift—clinical, almost bored. “A rare failure. Proof that even the darkness itself resists refinement.”
He turned from the glass, pacing with measured steps, hands folded neatly behind his back. The dim light overhead flickered once, shadows stretching long across the walls.
“It doesn’t matter. Failure is still data. And the true stage…” He paused, eyes narrowing as the faintest smile—if one could call it that—touched his lips. “…awaits in the Colosseum.”
His voice remained monotone, but beneath it pulsed a certainty, an arrogance too absolute to be shaken. He stared dead ahead into nothing, as though addressing a silent crowd. “The dogs of the AMS. The Key bearer. The Speedster. The King’s fools. They believe they fight for hope… for survival. But they are blind. Creation. Destruction. Rebirth. The Life Cycle is inevitable. It is everything.”
His vision flickered briefly to the darkness pooling in the corners of the office, subtle but steady, drawn to his words. It inked up across the floor, latching onto him like a second skin. Goldman did not acknowledge it. He simply stood, calm, collected, while the world around him drowned in chaos.
“I must go to the laboratory,” he said at last, his gaze shifting toward the door. He lingered, the silence stretching—then a whisper slipped free, almost reverent. “It must be perfected. And when it rises… even Maleficent, the Heartless, and the darkness itself will kneel.”
With that, Goldman moved, the shadows slipping after him like loyal hounds as he vanished deeper into his stronghold.
Meanwhile Back in Traverse Town - Cid’s Accessory Shop
[Traverse Town – Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Re:MiX plays]
Cid leaned back behind the counter, toothpick between his lips, arms folded across his chest. Across from him, Tails perched on a stool, his twin tails curled close behind him.
“So, got yourself some digs, I hear?” Cid broke the silence, his voice gravelly but not unkind.
Tails perked up. “Yeah. Aerith found me a place—just a little house nearby. Not much, but… enough.” He hesitated, then added, “I was thinking of turning it into my own workshop. Somewhere I can build again. Be useful. Maybe I can help Sonic and the team with upgrades.”
Cid raised an eyebrow, standing up straight with a grunt. “So… upstairs ain’t good enough for you, huh? My Gummi blocks and blueprints getting in the way of your tinkering?”
“What? No, no, no—!” Tails waved his gloved hands frantically. “I didn’t mean it like that! I just thought… y’know, more space, less clutter.”
Cid fixed him with a stern stare, the kind that could cut through metal. Tails’s ears drooped, his fingers fiddling against his knees as the silence stretched. Then, with a low chuckle, Cid plucked the toothpick from his lips. “I’m pullin’ your tails, kid. Stop lookin’ like I just caught you stealing from the cookie jar.”
Tails blinked, then let out a shaky laugh, rubbing the back of his head. “Boy, you sure got me there, Cid.”
“I try,” Cid said with gritty amusement, putting his toothpick back in his mouth. “’Sides, makes sense. Was gettin’ crowded up there with you tinkerin’ away and Leon brooding in the shadows.”
“So… you’re not mad about me setting up my own workshop?”
“Nah.” Cid gave a short, approving grunt. “Smart idea, fox. If you need the space, makes sense to me.”
“Thanks, Cid.”
“World like this, skills like yours are worth more than gold.”
“Really?” Tails said, ears flicking up in surprise.
“You’re willin’ to do what it takes to help others,” Cid said, voice softening just slightly. “Especially in a world you hardly know.”
“True…” Tails admitted quietly.
“Trust me. This ain’t the first time I’ve had to hole up on a strange world either.”
Tails tilted his head. “Wait—not the first time?”
Cid’s eyes softened. “Yeah. Let’s just say I’ve lost people too. Allies, friends. My real home. When the darkness came, you don’t always get to say goodbye. Trust me, it’s happened enough times to me.” He leaned forward, his tone heavy with experience. “Don’t let it eat you alive. You keep building, keep fighting. That’s how you honour what you lost.”
The words struck something deep in Tails. He lowered his gaze, voice quiet. “Back on Mobius… I built planes, gadgets, even my own workshop in the Mystic Ruins. The Tornado II, the Cyclone, the Miles Electric—every bolt, every upgrade, I thought it meant I could protect my friends. But then the Heartless came, and Mobius…” His voice trailed off. His hands tightened on his knees.
Cid was about to reply when the bell above the shop door gave a sharp jingle. Both heads turned.
A draft crept in, carrying the night chill from the First District.
[Traverse Town – Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Re:MiX stops]
In the doorway stood a figure, framed in the lantern glow of the streetlamps creeping in. Black fur striped with crimson, golden rings gleaming faintly at wrists and ankles, and eyes burning with a red intensity that didn’t belong in this world. His scowl alone could’ve cut steel.
Tails’s breath hitched. He shot up from his stool so fast he nearly toppled it. “Shadow?!”
[All Hail Shadow – Crush 40 Instrumental plays]
The figure didn’t move, didn’t blink. His voice cut through the shop like a blade.
“Tails.”
Relief burst across the fox’s face. “You’re okay!”
“Yes.”
The one word landed like stone in a still pond. The silence that followed felt heavier than the word itself.
Cid shifted his toothpick, unimpressed. “…Not much of a talker, is he?” He leaned back again, arms folded, his gaze flicking between the stranger and the fox. “Friend of yours, kid?”
Tails straightened, twin tails flicking nervously behind him. “Yeah—he’s from Mobius.”
Cid squinted. “No kidding. Say… he looks an awful lot like your blue buddy, but—”
“Sonic and I aren’t related,” Shadow interrupted. His voice was low, edged with steel, final.
Cid let out a breath. “Is he always this warm and fuzzy?”
“Pretty much,” Tails admitted with a weak shrug. He took a careful step forward, searching Shadow’s expression for something familiar. “Shadow… where have you been? How did you even get here to Traverse Town?”
The red-eyed hedgehog finally moved—tilting his head, just slightly, as if weighing whether to answer. His gaze locked onto Tails, unblinking and cold.
“I don’t have time for questions, Tails,” he said flatly. “I need answers.”
The warmth of the Accessory Shop seemed to drain away, replaced by a pressure that clung to the air. The lanterns flickered as if even their light had grown uneasy.
Cid shifted the toothpick to the other side of his mouth, eyes narrowing as he studied Shadow’s rigid stance. He muttered, half to himself, half to the room. “…Better get Leon.”
Notes:
Part 3 done!
I reworked the Judgment fight—hope you all enjoyed the new version.
It was fun making Kraul into an Emblem Heartless, showcasing Goldman’s experiments with the Heartless and darkness.
We also get Shadow’s arrival at Traverse Town! This will serve as a small side story in the last couple of chapters of the Venice arc, leading into his role in the second visit to Traverse Town. Shadow’s always been a fan favourite in the saga (and beyond of course), so it felt right to bring him in a little earlier.
I also enjoyed writing more of Cid and Tails. Their friendship in KH II BBE is one of my favourites, so I wanted to expand on their backstory to show how naturally they click.
Not much else for now—aiming to wrap up this arc by the end of September. Only about two parts left!
Onward to the Colosseum—see you in the next one!
Chapter 12: Città Morta di Venezia (House of the Dead 2) Part 4: Reunion
Summary:
Sora and Sonic share a quiet talk about life, endings, and those who try to cheat death—before a fiery reunion with Donald stirs old tensions. As the Colosseum looms, Agent G recalls a past case of mysterious “World Travellers,” a Moogle appears with upgrades and cryptic advice, and far away Shadow demonstrates the power of Chaos Control—along with a troubling report from the darkness.
Notes:
And Part 4 is here!
Hope you've been keeping well?
This arc is taking more time than I realised and I'm wanting to make sure all acts are improved upon. I was aiming for 5 parts, but more likely 6 - Part 5 is the Colosseum arena chapter, whilst 6 will be the confrontation with Goldman.
This chapter is mainly a breather chapter before two chapters of heavy action.
I hope you enjoy. Please enjoy.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
[The Ranking - The House of the Dead 2 plays]
The route to the Colosseum opened into wider cobblestone streets, the silence almost unsettling after the chaos of Venice so far. For the first time since they’d arrived, there were no Heartless flickering into existence, no grotesque creatures of Goldman lingering. Just stillness and short-term peace.
The AMS trio led the way ahead at a steady pace, their weapons lowered but never truly at rest. James’s stride was deliberate, Gary scanned the rooftops, and G, as usual, looked as though nothing could catch him off guard, he wasn’t going to be ambushed like earlier.
A short distance behind, Sora and Sonic trailed, taking up the rear to cover the flank. Sonic’s sneakers tapped a quicker rhythm than the boy’s big yellow shoes, but his pace matched Sora’s easily. He noticed how unusually quiet Sora had been. Normally, the kid brimmed with questions, with energy that seemed endless. But ever since their battle with Judgment, Sora carried himself differently—like something weighed on his mind.
Sonic tilted his head, glancing up at him. “Something on your mind?” His tone was casual, light, as if he were tossing a pebble into still water. “You’ve been awfully quiet, buddy.”
Sora blinked, shaken from his thoughts. “Huh? You say something, Sonic?”
“I said, something on your mind,” Sonic repeated, this time with a teasing smirk. “Don’t think too hard about it, Sora. You’ll get a headache.”
“Oh… ha-ha,” Sora rubbed the back of his head, sheepish. “I was just thinking about something.”
“Go on.”
“Well… it’s silly, really.”
“There’s no such thing as a silly question,” Sonic replied, wagging a finger like he was laying down a rule. “So, what d’you wanna ask?”
Sora’s steps slowed for half a beat before he found the courage to speak. “The more we fight those monsters… I keep thinking about what Gary said earlier. About how it all started with that guy Curien.” His voice lowered, like he wasn’t sure if he should even be asking this. “Why would someone want to conquer death? And why would people like Goldman pay so much to make it happen?”
Hearing Sora’s question, James didn’t even glance back as he muttered, “Curien wanted control. People like Goldman want profit. That’s all.”
G gave the faintest grunt, as if the matter was settled.
Sonic’s ears twitched at the question. He frowned slightly. “That’s a bit on the nose,” he said, eyes flicking between the agents ahead and Sora at his side. “There’s more to it than that.”
It wasn’t a silly question at all—it was the kind you only asked when the fighting stopped long enough to breathe.
“Sora, are you asking why people wanna stop death?” Sonic mused aloud, trying to catch his friend’s meaning.
“Yeah, I guess…” Sora tucked both hands behind his head, eyes flicking from Sonic to the backs of G, James, and Gary. “I mean, isn’t that what it all comes down to? Heartless, monsters, experiments, all this chaos… because someone’s scared of the end.” He let out a small laugh, trying to brush it off. “…Told you it was silly.”
Sonic didn’t laugh. His gaze shifted forward, watching the street wind toward the Colosseum. He thought about Sora’s words, turning them over carefully. Did the kid really understand the complications of death? Probably not. Sora was still naïve when it came to the everyday weight of life and loss—he grew up on an island where worries were simpler, and most of the harsh truths of life hadn’t reached him until recently. Sonic had met someone like that once. Someone who had believed she could end all endings, rewrite the rules of life itself.
Merlina.
The memory cut sharp. Her desperate eyes, the refusal to accept that even the greatest stories must end. She had tried to create a world without loss, without change—without death. And Sonic had stood against her, because deep down, he knew she was wrong.
He exhaled through his nose, then looked back at Sora.
“It’s not silly at all,” Sonic said finally, his tone carrying more weight than before. His posture straightened, but his expression still held warmth. “Death’s a touchy subject.”
“Sure is,” Sora admitted. “I don’t… fully get it.”
“I didn’t think you did,” Sonic replied. His words weren’t cruel—if anything, there was eagerness in them. He wanted to help Sora understand. “But here’s the thing. People are afraid of endings. They see things like ‘death’ and think it’s nothing but loss. So, they do everything they can to run from it. Some chase to change it, others throw money at experiments to control it. They think if they beat the end, they’ll hold onto what makes ‘em happy forever.”
Sora tilted his head. “And that’s… bad?”
“Not bad to wanna hold on,” Sonic admitted. His shoes scuffed lightly against the stone as they turned a corner. “But think about it, Sora. If nothing ever ended—if no one ever had to say goodbye, if nothing ever changed—then what would the good times mean? They’d just… stretch on and on until you didn’t even notice them anymore. It’s the fact that they end that makes ‘em shine so bright.”
Sora slowed his steps, his eyes narrowing in thought. “So… it’s like a story.”
“Exactly.” Sonic snapped his fingers, grinning at the boy’s spark of understanding. “A story’s precious because it’s got a last page. Doesn’t matter if it’s short or long—what matters is what’s written in it. The adventures, the laughs, even the tough parts. All of it matters because it doesn’t last forever.”
The boy mulled it over, gaze drifting towards the grey sky above the ruined rooftops. “I guess I never thought of it that way. Back home, I just… wanted things to stay the same forever. Me, Riku, Kairi. Our time together. No goodbyes.”
Sonic’s grin softened into something gentler. “I get that. Kinda met someone who wanted it so bad, they were willing to break the whole world to get it. But in the end, I realised… forever isn’t living. It’s just… standing still.”
Sora let that sit. His footsteps echoed, the silence stretching, not heavy but thoughtful. Finally, he smiled faintly. “You make it sound less scary, y’know?”
“Scary’s fine,” Sonic said, folding his arms behind his head in his own easy posture. “Being scared just means it’s something important. And endings? They’re important. They give all the stuff before ‘em meaning.” He shot Sora a comforting look. “So don’t beat yourself up for asking, partner. Questions like that? They’re worth asking.”
Up ahead, G raised a hand, signalling for the group to slow. The Colosseum loomed, broken arches cutting into the dark sky like the ribs of a giant. The fragile pocket of peace around them was already starting to crack.
“Looks like we’re here,” Sora said, voice low but steady.
“Seems it,” Sonic answered. His green eyes lingered forward only a moment before dropping to the bracelet around his wrist—Chip’s old necklace.
Sonic’s steps didn’t falter, but his thoughts did.
Chip hadn’t died. No, nothing like that. After Dark Gaia was sealed away, Chip had gone back into the world, back into the cycle that kept the planet whole. But it had still felt like goodbye. Sonic remembered that last smile, that last promise: “I’ll always be with you.”
The hedgehog flexed his wrist, feeling the charm’s weight.
“I hope I said it right to Sora”, he thought. “About endings. About how they give meaning. Because Chip… he proved that to me. It hurt to let him go, but the time we had? That was real. That mattered to me. I miss you, buddy.”
Turning his focus back to the Colosseum, they were now outside the exterior. The group came to a stop and looked around the the scars of centuries, with crumbling brickwork and moss-covered stones telling the tale of its long history on this world. Large cracks snaked across its weathered façade, evidence of countless battles and the ravages of time. Vines twisted around the pillars, reclaiming the structure in a silent battle against decay.
The grandeur of the Colosseum was still evident despite its dilapidated state, hinting at its former glory as a place of entertainment and spectacle. Faded murals adorned the walls, depicting scenes of ancient heroes and mythical creatures, their colours muted by years of exposure to the elements.
Yet, despite its worn appearance, there was an undeniable sense of history and significance that hung in the air around the Colosseum. It stood as a testament to the resilience of the people who had built it, a symbol of endurance in the face of adversity.
“It’s time to shut down this Goldman creep,” Sonic declared, voice firm with determination. His bracelet gave off a faint glow as he clenched a gloved fist, fire smouldering inside.
“Yeah, but…” Sora muttered, glancing around and scratching the back of his head. “Where are Donald, Goofy, and Jiminy?”
“And our other agents?” Gary added, looking towards G and James.
Before anyone could answer, a familiar voice rang out behind them.
“Hey, fellas!”
Startled, Sonic, Sora, and the AMS trio spun around. Relief washed over them as Donald and Goofy strode forward, Jiminy perched cheerfully on Goofy’s shoulder.
“Goofy! Donald!” Sora shouted, his relief bursting into joy as he ran forward.
The boy and duck clasped hands and bounced in place, laughter spilling out as if the nightmare of Venice had vanished in that moment. Jiminy tipped his hat, smiling proudly at the sight.
But then the joy soured in an instant.
“Hey, wait a minute!” Donald shouted, yanking his hands back and jabbing a finger at Sora. “It’s your fault we’re stranded here! If you hadn’t argued with me, we’d be safe and sound away from this place!”
Sora recoiled, frustration flaring just as hot. “And if you hadn’t picked a fight in the first place, we wouldn’t have crashed at all!”
“WAK! WE HAD A PLAN!”
The spark of anger caught fast. Donald’s feathers bristled, Sora’s hands shot out wildly, and their voices rang off the Colosseum’s exterior walls as the argument spiralled.
The agents looked on, trying to make sense of the argument in front of them.
Goofy meanwhile quickly wedged himself between them, long arms spread wide. “Gawrsh, fellas, don’t start this again! We gotta stick together. Ain’t time for squabblin’—‘specially in a place like this.”
“Goofy’s right,” Jiminy chimed in, voice clear as a bell from his perch. “We’ve gotta keep our heads on straight and work together.”
Neither boy nor duck listened. Both turned away with loud huffs, arms folded tight, brows furrowed. Goofy dropped his hands, baffled, while Jiminy sighed and shook his head.
Watching from the side, Sonic dragged a hand down his face. “Okay, guys, this is getting ridiculous.” He stepped closer, tone firm. “You’re both alive, you’re both here—that’s what counts. Can we please focus on the part where we work together and maybe give our new friends a hand?” He gestured towards G, Gary, and James, who exchanged glances but wisely kept silent.
“Donald should say sorry first,” Sora muttered.
“No—you should!” Donald snapped back.
Jiminy slapped his forehead with both hands. “Hopeless. Just hopeless.”
“Great…” Sonic groaned, throwing up a hand. He turned instead to Goofy and Jiminy, shaking his head. “Still—no matter how much they bicker, it’s good to see you two safe.”
“You too, pal,” Goofy said warmly. His gaze lingered on Sora and Donald, still sulking with their backs turned. “I just wish they’d get back on the same page.”
“Me too, Goofy,” Sonic sighed, exasperated. “Me too.”
Still watching the tense reunion, the AMS agents had stayed quiet. But now James, Gary, and G traded glances — part confusion, part disbelief.
“A talking dog and duck, huh?” Gary muttered. “Well, I’ve officially seen everything.”
“Don’t forget the smartly dressed bug riding shotgun,” James added, nodding towards Jiminy on Goofy’s shoulder. “And here I was thinking the blue hedgehog was the strangest thing today.”
Gary gave a dry laugh. “Stranger than Goldman’s freak shows? Stranger than the Heartless?”
“True…” James met his gaze, deadpan. “But at least Goldman’s monsters don’t argue like a married couple.”
“Got me there.”
That earned the faintest exhale of amusement from G. His lips barely moved, but his eyes sharpened. Watching Sora and Donald bicker had confirmed something he’d suspected from the start.
“G?” James asked, catching the shift. He saw the light of recognition in his senior’s expression. “You know something?”
“They seem to be World Travellers,” G remarked evenly, though there was a trace of amusement beneath the steel.
Gary looked at him confused. “Wait… what?”
“You mean like…” James began, but G cut him off, his voice carrying the weight of authority.
“Yes. Like a decade ago.” G finished, his gaze never left them. “I was there. And these folks remind me of others I encountered then. Outsiders. Helping in ways no one else could.”
“The Papa Caesar incident,” James cut in, voice flat. His eyes locked on G. “That’s what you’re talking about, isn’t it?”
G gave a single, deliberate nod. “Bayou City. Caesar’s mess wasn’t just a bioweapon outbreak. He opened doors that should’ve stayed closed.” His tone dropped lower, edged with steel. “The AMS buried it. Top-level clearance. Even most of our own never saw the reports.”
“You’ve gotta be kidding me…” Gary muttered.
“Nope, not kidding, “G clarified, his gaze drifting past James, narrowing slightly. “A young man with a weapon like Sora’s. Others—two more—wielding the impossible. And another…” His eyes flicked discreetly towards Sonic, still trying to play peacekeeper. “Not a speedster. A thinker. A hedgehog who attacked with his mind, not his speed.”
Gary frowned, disbelief tugging at his features. “Another… like Sonic?”
“A thinker…” James echoed, brow lifting. “Who could that be?”
G’s silence lingered until it felt heavy. Finally, he murmured, “Another time, gentlemen.”
“Wait, you’re just gonna drop a bomb like that and not explain further?” Gary snapped, eager to know more.
“Enough, Gary,” James warned, tone sharp.
“But—”
“Enough,” G repeated, calm but final. His eyes lingered briefly on Sonic, Sora, and the others before turning back to James and Gary. “The more I think back to then—and look at the now—World Travellers never just stumble into a fight. If they’re here, it means the stakes are higher than either of us want to admit. Something greater is at risk… and we’re only a small part of it.”
“Because of Goldman,” James said, piecing it together. “And likely the Heartless too?”
“And those doors being opened again?” Gary added, connecting the dots.
“Bingo. We keep this under wraps until after the mission,” G said, striding ahead. Gary and James exchanged uneasy glances, then gave curt nods in agreement.
As he drew nearer, he took in the sight: Sora and Donald still sulking back-to-back, Goofy and Jiminy caught in the middle, and Sonic standing with hands on hips, exasperated. Sonic’s ears twitched when he heard the measured footsteps.
“Huh?” Donald blurted, turning as G stopped a few feet away.
The others looked too, Sora dropping his folded arms as the senior agent fixed his attention on them.
“G?” Sonic mused, seeing him approach.
“So, you’re the missing companions of Sora and Sonic?” G asked, his tone professional, directed squarely at Goofy, Donald, and Jiminy.
“Yep, that’s us,” Goofy confirmed with a genial nod. “Name’s Goofy.” He gestured to the stubborn duck, “This here is Donald,” and then nodded to Jiminy on his shoulder. “And this here’s Jiminy.”
“A pleasure to meet you—G, was it?” Jiminy added politely, tipping his hat.
“That’s right. Agent G,” he confirmed, crisp and precise. His sharp eyes lingered on each of them in turn. “Tell me, how did you all get separated?”
Goofy scratched his head, as he began to explain. “Well, we got separated when our ship—”
Before he could continue, Donald jabbed him sharply in the ribs, cutting him off with a glare.
“Ow!” Goofy yelped, rubbing his side.
“Goofy… Order!” Donald hissed, eyes darting nervously as he stressed the word. The World Order had to be kept.
“Oh, yeah…” Goofy murmured, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly. “Sorry…”
“Right…” G echoed quietly, filing the word away for later.
Sonic sighed, shaking his head. “That duck and his order…”
Donald groaned, shooting the hedgehog a side-eye. Sonic only chuckled and shrugged in reply. G caught the exchange and allowed himself the faintest smirk. “Bingo,” he thought. “Bang to rights.” He didn’t press, though. Not yet, the mission came first.
Sora, sensing the need to defuse the moment, stepped forward, brushing past Donald. The duck flapped in protest as the boy stood in front of him, blocking his view.
“WAK! Hey!”
“Anyway,” Sora said firmly, cutting him off and focusing on Goofy and Jiminy. Donald folded his arms with a grumble, muttering something impolite under his breath. Sonic snickered quietly at the duck’s sulk. “So,” he continued, “how did you find us?”
“Well, we wouldn’t have made it this far without our new friends,” Goofy explained warmly.
“New friends?” Sonic echoed, brows furrowing with curiosity.
Jiminy glanced over his shoulder and pointed towards the path they’d come from. “Here they come now.”
Everyone turned as two figures stepped into view. Recognition rippled through the AMS agents, and for the first time in hours their shoulders eased. Amy Crystal and Harry Harris moved at a brisk pace, the dim light catching on Harry’s shades.
“Well, well — Harry, Amy,” Gary said, half a laugh slipping out. “Good to see you both alive and kicking.”
“We were starting to wonder,” James added, voice low but edged with relief.
“Everything’s under control—more or less,” Harry said with a sharp grin, clapping Gary on the arm.
Amy’s eyes found G at once. She broke into a run. “G! You’re alright!”
G inclined his head, expression composed, though a flicker of warmth reached his eyes. “Good to see you both.”
Amy let out a long breath, some of the tension in her frame easing. She glanced to Donald, Goofy, and Jiminy. “Looks like our new allies found their friends too.”
“Well… not all of us are on the same page,” Sonic muttered, cutting a look towards Donald.
“WAK! Sora owes me an apology!” Donald shouted, irritated.
Sora spun towards him, fists balled. “No, you owe me one!”
Goofy groaned, dragging a palm down his face. “Gawrsh, fellas…”
Jiminy shook his head. “This is going to take a while…”
Sonic exhaled loudly, arms folding, eyes half-lidded. “Ain’t that the truth.”
G raised his voice just enough to cut through. “If it helps ease the tension—”
“It won’t if it involves Sora!” Donald snapped.
“HEY!” Sora shot back, stepping forward.
Sonic facepalmed. Goofy and Jiminy threw up their hands in unison. The AMS agents traded baffled looks; Amy glanced back at her team and mouthed, “What the hell is going on?” Gary only shook his head, mouthing back, “Long story.”
G ignored the noise, eyes steady. “Regardless of your quarrel, duck, I owe it to Sora’s quick thinking earlier. He’s the reason I’m still standing.”
Amy’s brow arched, curiosity sparking as she turned back to G. “Quick thinking?”
“Yes.” G met her gaze, then turned to Sora. “I was attacked and injured. Without his potion, I’d have been toast.”
Sora rubbed the back of his head, sheepish grin in place. “Aw, it was nothing. You’d do the same for me.”
Harry pushed his shades down just enough to peer over them, scepticism clear. “A potion? You’re telling me the kid’s carrying miracle juice?”
“Not a miracle,” Gary said flatly, cutting in before Sora could. “I saw it first-hand, and it worked.”
“Really?” Amy mused, intrigued by the concept.
G inclined his head, tone as cool as ever. “Without it, I wouldn’t be standing here. Simple as that.” He paused for a moment, then deadpan: “Though it did taste like mint tea.”
“Mint tea?” Donald tilted his head, beak twisting. “Wait, you drank it?”
“I did,” G confirmed without hesitation.
Goofy rubbed his chin, baffled. “Gawrsh… we usually just toss it in the air and let it work its magic. I didn’t know you could drink the stuff.”
Sonic shrugged, smirk tugging at his muzzle. “Every day’s a school day, Goofy. Kinda wild no one thought to try it before.”
“Well… err…” Donald muttered, looking genuinely thrown. “We… we didn’t know that was a thing.”
Sora crossed his arms, lips twitching. “Some magic user you are.”
Donald puffed up instantly. “What did you say?!”
“Nothing,” Sora said quickly, grin betraying him.
“WAK!” Donald flailed, arms windmilling as he bounced on his webbed feet.
“Stop trying to rile him up, Sora,” Jiminy piped from Goofy’s shoulder, voice crisp. “It’s not helping.”
“Sorry…” Sora muttered, though the lopsided grin on his face suggested he wasn’t sorry at all.
Harry arched a brow at G, amusement flickering. “So, the potion-drinking makes you the guinea pig, huh?”
For once, G allowed himself the faintest chuckle. His shoulders eased just a fraction. “I’ve been through worse. Trust me.”
“You’re tough as they come,” James said without hesitation.
“That’s why you lead us,” Amy added, pride clear in her voice.
“I wouldn’t be in this line of work without you,” Gary chimed in, his voice full of respect.
G raised a hand, steady and commanding. “Thank you, all of you. But enough praise. Focus on the mission.” His voice cut through the easy moment like steel. “We need to stop Goldman and end his plans.”
“Too right,” Sonic said, slamming one fist into his open palm. The bracelet at his wrist glimmered faintly.
“Yeah,” Sora added, his Keyblade flaring into existence in a burst of light. “Let’s finish this.”
James gave a sharp nod. “Right. Let’s head inside and track Goldman down.”
“Roger that,” Harry agreed, already moving with the agents toward the looming arches of the Colosseum.
But before Sora and the rest could follow, Donald sidled up beside him, chuckling under his breath. His arms were tucked behind his back, posture deceptively casual.
“What are you—?” Sora began.
Donald swung an arm forward, palm open in a rare offer of truce. “You know,” he said sweetly, “you’re not so bad sometimes.”
Sora squinted suspiciously, but after a moment, he reached out anyway.
“WAK! Gotcha!”
“Huh?!”
Donald yanked his hand back, tongue out and eyes gleaming.
Sora stumbled, flailing to steady himself. “Hey!” he barked, face flushing red. He flung his arms out, exasperated. “That’s not funny!”
Donald waddled ahead, arms crossed smugly. “Oops. My mistake.”
“You’re impossible!” Sora growled, stomping after him. “Dooonaald!”
Donald laughed out loudly, delighted with his small victory.
“DONALD!” Sora called out, his voice irritated.
“Gawrsh…” Goofy muttered, rubbing his temple as he followed behind. “Don’t reckon they’ll patch things up anytime soon.”
“Doesn’t look like it…” Sonic dragged a hand down his face. “We’re about to fight a madman, and these two are still acting like kids on a playground.”
On Goofy’s shoulder, Jiminy sighed and flipped open his journal. “Well,” he murmured, scratching the page with his pen, “this one’s going down in the records—assuming the world’s still here after today.”
Inside...
Stone arches yawned like something ancient, funnelling the party into a corridor where dust hung in the air and the light turned a tired gold. Their footsteps echoed—ten distinct rhythms falling into a nervous sync—until even that began to feel too loud.
Sonic walked beside Sora. Donald and the teen’s argument had cooled from a boil to a simmer, but the ripples were still there. Goofy and Jiminy hovered between them, ready to keep the peace if they had to. The AMS agents fanned out: Amy, James, and Gary watched corners; Harry walked backwards every few seconds to check the rear; and G moved like a steady metronome in the middle, eyes everywhere.
The hall bent left, then right. Cold wind found its way through cracks and dragged across the stones in a long, hollow sigh.
A sound pricked the silence—a soft chime, like a bell you could mistake for the echo of your own heartbeat.
Sonic’s ears twitched. “Anyone else hear—?”
The chime answered him. A tiny lantern glow bobbed into view around the next bend, stop-and-start, like someone short and impatient trying to peek over a countertop.
“Hold,” G said, raising two fingers.
The agents pivoted. Guns came up. Sora lifted his Keyblade. Sonic dropped his centre of gravity, ready to spring.
The glow rounded the last chunk of crumbled wall and became a pom-pom—perfectly round, gently pulsing—attached to a small creature. White fur, big red nose, tiny wings that looked more decorative than functional, and a satchel somehow bigger on the inside than out.
“Kupo!” it chirped brightly, as if they’d just arrived for afternoon tea.
James’s poker face faltered. “What in—”
“Don’t shoot!” Goofy blurted, throwing his arms wide between the agents and the newcomer. “Gawrsh—uh—howdy there, little fella!”
Donald hopped forward, flapping his arms to block G’s line of fire. “Easy! Easy! This is—uh—this is perfectly normal.”
“Perfectly normal…?” Gary muttered.
“That’s not something you’d call normal,” Amy added, her gun lowering slightly.
“Trust us,” Donald said. “It’s not dangerous.”
The creature turned to Donald and Goofy and gave a pleased nod, pom-pom bobbing. “Thank you, kupo. Very kind of you to vouch for me.”
Jiminy tipped his hat, relief loosening his posture. “I had a feeling… though I admit I wasn’t expecting a shopkeeper.”
“A shopkeeper?” Sora leaned closer, curiosity edging past caution. “What… is it?” He shot a glance at Donald, even though they weren’t exactly on the best of terms.
“And let me guess…” Sonic teased, smirking at the duck. “You can’t say much because of a certain order?”
Donald coughed into his hand. “Ahem! We can, uh… talk about that later.”
“Sure…” Sonic sighed, rubbing the inside of his ear with a finger, unimpressed. “Knew you’d say something like that.”
“Can someone please tell me how you know this creature?” James snapped, patience thinning.
Goofy scratched his head, eyes shifting. “Shucks, we heard ’bout folks like this from… a friend o’ a friend.”
“From where?” Harry asked, narrowing his eyes behind his shades.
“Places,” Donald said primly. “Private places. Classified places.”
“Right,” G murmured, filing the word away like he’d done outside. “Places.”
“That’s gotta be the worst answer ever,” Gary sighed, throwing up a hand—the other still on his gun.
“Regardless… I think you guys can put down your weapons,” Sonic said to the agents. “I don’t think this thing is gonna harm you.”
“Right,” G answered, lowering his weapon. “Stand down.”
The agents holstered their firearms—still on high alert. Sora lowered his Keyblade too, dropping to his side.
They all watched as the creature spun in a little circle and, with a soft pop, conjured a tidy wooden stall out of nowhere—counter, cash box, and a crooked little sign dangling from one string:
MOOGLE SHOP – NO REFUNDS, KUPO.
A bell chime echoed down the corridor like punctuation.
Sonic blinked, scratching the back of his head. “Well… you don’t see this every day.”
“Nope…” Amy admitted, side-eyeing Harry. “Classify this as weird.”
“Already did,” Harry replied, pushing his shades up as though that might block out the absurdity.
“Welcome, kupo!” the Moogle chirped, wings fluttering with pride. “Travellers look tired. Travellers look under-equipped. You’re in luck! Moogle’s got upgrades, restoratives, and a little advice—for a fair price, kupo!”
Sonic’s grin arrived before his brain caught up. “A shop? In here?”
“Yes, kupo. What’s the problem?”
“Nothing,” Sonic said, folding his arms. “Except maybe the Heartless and Goldman’s freaks crawling all over the place.”
“Haven’t you seen them?” Sora added, motioning toward the cracked walls.
“Of course, kupo. But this hall is different. This place is… safe.” The pom-pom bobbed knowingly.
“A safe zone?” G echoed, voice clipped.
James frowned, still sceptical. “Convenient. Too convenient. Perfect place for an ambush.”
“Oh, unless it’s like those video games,” Gary muttered, smirking. “Y’know—the ones where you save in a janitor’s closet or at a typewriter?”
Harry turned slowly to him, deadpan. “You must stop playing games before missions. It messes with your psyche.”
Gary cleared his throat, sheepish. “Right… sorry.”
Amy tapped her hip, unimpressed. “Ok creature, I have a question. Why it’s so quiet?”
The Moogle beamed. “Because kupo, the Colosseum respects balance. Places of rest must exist, or the fight can’t go on. Even darkness knows that.”
Sora scratched the back of his head. “O-kay… I still don’t get it.”
“Don’t question it, Sora,” Goofy said, wagging a finger. “Take the peace and quiet before we gotta dive back in.”
Donald folded his arms with a huff. “Yeah, what he said.”
“Fine…” Sora muttered, glaring at the duck.
Sonic just shrugged at the absurdity. “Guess I’ve seen stranger.” He leaned on the counter, curiosity all over his face. “So… you take rings, shop keep?”
“Rings are nice for hedgehogs, kupo. Not so nice for ledgers. We take Munny.”
“Money,” Gary corrected out of habit.
“No, Munny,” the Moogle repeated cheerfully. “Different spelling, different sound, very different exchange rate, kupo.”
Gary muttered to James, “You hear that capitalization?” He then looked to the Moogle. “What about Dollars and cents?”
“No, kupo!”
“Right…” Gary sighed.
“Dollars and cents?” Sora tried the words like he was testing a new spell. “What are those?”
James blinked, baffled. “M’kid, you’re—”
G shot him a fractional look. James closed his mouth immediately; a sheepish exhale escaped his nose.
Donald cleared his throat, edging up to the counter like he was announcing himself at court. “Our friends are, uh, new to this kind of thing. And we’re keeping—y’know—the order.”
“Very respectable, kupo.”
The Moogle ducked beneath the counter and resurfaced with a lacquered case far too big for its tiny paws. It layed it down and unfolded the lid like a puzzle box.
Inside gleamed a pair of shoes—hedgehog-sized, but clearly no ordinary footwear. The leather was a red so bright it looked fresh from the brush, stitched tight over soles thick enough to endure speed. Wide white straps locked across the top like polished armour. Golden streaks wrapped the heel and fed into a black stabiliser that looked closer to an engine mount than fashion.
“Whoa, aren’t they—” Sonic started, but the Moogle cut him off.
“The Light Speed Shoes, kupo.” Its pom-pom glowed brighter as it spoke. “They channel ambient ring energy and convert it into a dash along ring trajectories. Line of rings? Zip! Path of rings? Zing! Rail grinding? Zang! But—” it wagged a tiny paw, “they need a brief charge first, kupo. Patience is a virtue, even for hedgehogs.”
Sonic’s eyes widened. He’d seen something like these before—back on Metal Harbor, during his break out from Prison Island. He’d had to grab a pair just like this to keep pace, to rocket through ring lines and grind rails before G.U.N. caught him. Without them, escape would’ve been impossible. “They really came through for me once,” he thought. “Guess they’re about to again.”
“Okay, I’m in. What’s the damage?” Sonic asked, grinning.
“Eight hundred Munny, kupo. Introductory Colosseum rate.” The Moogle’s small smile was smug on its plush-toy face.
Sonic patted his quills, rummaging around with both hands. “Okay, hold on… I know I’ve got some—” He pulled out a few golden rings, which chimed together like pocket change. He blinked, then dove back in with both arms, rustling through blue fur like he was digging for treasure.
Goofy tilted his head. “Uh, you okay there, Sonic?”
“Yeah, yeah, just gimme a sec,” Sonic muttered, digging deep into his quills. Out came a crumpled paper cone still dusted with powdered sugar. “Huh. Churro from Spagonia. Guess it’s past the sell-by date.” He tossed it aside, then fished out a seashell charm shaped like a little lighthouse. “From Apotos. Don’t ask.” The next thing was a worn photograph, edges bent from being carried around too long. It showed Sonic with his arm slung around a small, grinning creature with big eyes. The blue hedgehog’s expression softened for just a second before he stuffed it back fast. “Chip…” he muttered under his breath.
Everyone stared. Sora tilted his head. “You… keep pictures in your quills?”
Donald looked baffled. “What kind of inventory system is that?!”
Even the AMS agents blinked in confusion.
"Did he just pull out… souvenirs?” Amy questioned.
"Looks like it..." Gary remarked, scratching his head.
The Moogle, unimpressed, bobbed its pom-pom. “Hedgehogs are weird, kupo.”
Sonic groaned, patting himself down again. “Aw, come on. Aerith gave me five hundred Munny. I swear I had it.”
“You lost it?!” Donald exploded.
Sonic threw up his gloved hands. “Guess so! Must’ve dropped it somewhere between monsters and near-death experiences. Story of my life.”
“You had Munny and didn’t say nothing?!” Sora asked, wide-eyed.
“Hey, I thought I had it!” Sonic shot back, shoving everything back into his quills. Then he held up the handful of rings with a sheepish grin. “So, uh… you think this guy does exchange rates?”
The Moogle crossed its tiny arms, unimpressed. “Rings are rings. Munny is Munny. They don’t kiss, kupo.”
Sonic blinked at the jingle in his hand, then at the Moogle. “…So no deal?”
“No deal, kupo.”
“Dang…” Sonic sighed, shoulders slumping.
Sora glanced between them, cheeks colouring. “I… don’t think I’ve got enough to help you out, Sonic…”
Gary rubbed his jaw. “We deal in dollars at the AMS. This is—this is a whole new headache.”
Harry cut in. “So how do we actually get Munny?”
“Usually by smashing boxes, defeating monsters, completing requests,” the Moogle said as casually as if it were describing the weather. “But you all seem in a rush, kupo. Special accommodations can be arranged… with a guarantor.”
“Guarantor…” Sora echoed, scratching his head.
Donald folded his arms with the gravitas of a strict banker. “We’ll cover it. But…” He leaned forward, fixing Sonic with a glare so sharp it could’ve been lifted straight from his Uncle Scrooge. “You owe us—big time!”
Goofy nodded emphatically. “Yup! We’ll spot ya now, then y’all can pay us back after we clobber that Goldman fella.”
Sonic winced, ears twitching. “Okay, sure… guess I’ll figure out a conversion chart later.”
“Later,” G echoed mildly. “After Goldman.”
“Right… after Goldman.”
The Moogle spun its cash box around and popped the lid. Donald and Goofy counted out bright, hexagonal coins—cheerful and glittering, clearly not from this world. The AMS agents watched with raised brows and tilted heads. Gary muttered under his breath, “Not dollars, not cents…” Harry shook his head. Amy looked like she wanted to ask but thought better of it.
G, meanwhile, just observed coolly, his thoughts tucked away. “Just like that young man from a decade ago…”
The Moogle stacked the coins into a neat tower, slid them into a slot, and the box chimed with satisfaction. “Pleasure doing business, kupo! Step up, hedgehog.”
Sonic practically hopped out of his old shoes and into the new pair. The fit felt right and snug. Like they’d been waiting for him.
“Okay,” Sonic said, testing his weight with a few hops. “So, remind me—how do these bad boys work?”
The Moogle raised a paw and, like magic, rings—actual, glowing rings—spooled into the air down the corridor in a neat, inviting line.
“Hold your energy. Gather it. Then release along the path. Your body will do the rest, kupo.”
“Hold, gather, release,” Sonic repeated, rolling his shoulders. “Like riding a bike, I guess…”
He planted his feet, let the new shoes bite into the stone, and drew in a breath. The corridor narrowed to a single point ahead—the first ring—and for a heartbeat he felt that old familiar thrill just before a stunt, standing on the edge between genius and disaster.
He focused. Something in the shoes answered—like they were drinking the hum of the rings themselves.
“Ready!” Sonic called out, a faint blue aura sparking around him.
“Now!” the Moogle chirped.
“GO!”
Sonic burst forward. The first two rings snapped into streaks of light as he tore through them, then suddenly he was pulled along the path, a comet skimming the floor. He laughed as the world smudged to a blur, then snapped back when the ring line ended.
He landed in a crouch, shoes sending a fading ripple through the dust. His heart hammered as he looked back, a grin splitting his muzzle. “Okay—that’s… yeah. I remember this power. Definitely coming back to me.”
“Moves like a magic zipline,” Gary muttered, impressed despite himself, watching Sonic run back to the group.
Harry grinned. “Could’ve used those earlier.”
The Moogle clapped its tiny paws, delighted. “Good form, kupo! There’s another accessory that shortens the charge time, but I’m out of stock. Supply chain issues. Heartless ate the courier, kupo.”
“…What,” Sonic murmured, tilting his head.
“Kidding. Mostly.” The pom-pom flickered. “Next customers!”
“Okay…” Sonic muttered, giving the plush creature a bewildered look. “Did the Heartless really get the courier?” Either way, this thing had a surprisingly dark sense of humour.
Donald, who had been vibrating in place for the last minute, finally burst out: “My turn! What’ve you got for someone with refined magical prowess—and impeccable taste?”
“Impeccable taste… you?” Sora muttered, resting a hand on his hip, clearly trying to stir the pot.
“Sora…” Jiminy groaned, rubbing his brow.
“Hey, watch it!” Donald barked. “I am a royal mage, after all!”
That made the AMS agents blink in unison. Their heads snapped towards the duck, curiosity sparking.
“Umm, Donald…” Goofy said cautiously, leaning in.
“What?!”
“World Order…” Goofy whispered, bending down like he could hide the words under his hat.
Donald froze, eyes wide for half a beat. He gulped so loud it might as well have been a confession. “Uh-oh…”
Sora’s grin went sly. “Gotcha.”
The agents glanced between themselves, questions ready—until G’s small shake of the head cut them off.
Sonic groaned, palm to his face. “Dude. You, of all people…”
“Ducks,” Goofy corrected.
“Whatever.”
Donald let out a forced laugh, rubbing the back of his head. “Eheh… right, right. Forget that! Just show me what you’ve got already!”
The Moogle didn’t miss a beat. With a little flourish, it produced a compact weapon—a morning star shrunk for travel, its head a starburst of metal on a reinforced rod.
“Morning Star, kupo. Increases strength without scolding your magic points. Two hundred and fifty Munny.”
Donald’s eyes went wide. “I’ll take it!”
“War Hammer’s on backorder anyway, kupo,” the Moogle added quickly. “Would’ve made your spells sluggish.”
“WAK—good! Because I don’t need sluggish spells!”
Goofy leaned in, chin propped in his hand. “And fer me?”
From under the counter, the Moogle lifted a shield with the presence of a door. Thick rim, reinforced grip, its face etched with a simple sturdy pattern that just felt safe. “Stout Shield. Excellent coverage. Very bashable. Two hundred and fifty, kupo.”
“Hot dog!” Goofy’s smile spread slow and satisfied. “That’s the one.”
The little bell jingled again as the purchase went through. Donald twirled his new weapon with all the subtlety of a parade float, nearly clobbering Gary in the process. Goofy gave his shield an experimental shove into empty air, and the corridor itself seemed to echo back in agreement—like the world had decided to get out of his way.
“Gee, those new weapons look swell, fellas,” Jiminy called, sounding genuinely impressed.
“I’ll say!” Donald crowed, twirling his Morning Star in a grand arc. Fire flared briefly along the tip, licking the air.
“Watch where you swing that thing,” James muttered, stepping neatly aside with the weariness of a man who’d done this before.
“Sorry…” Donald mumbled, though the grin tugging his beak said otherwise.
Sora laughed into his hand at Donald’s fumble, with the duck turning and grumbling at the teen.
“Speaking of,” Harry cut in, tapping the side of his pistol. “You got anything for these? Heartless don’t exactly listen to lead.”
“Nor Goldman’s creatures,” Amy added, her voice brisk but edged with curiosity.
“Moogle has adapters, kupo. Photon Chambers. Turns your firearms into Light Guns. Slot onto your sidearms, convert your ammunition into light-aspected projectiles. No change in recoil, improved capacity due to conversion efficiency, and—” it snapped, producing two anklet-thin spools of glossy enamel—“colour options. Pink or light blue, kupo.”
Amy’s eyes lit. “You had me at adapters.” She glanced at the options, then pointed. “Pink.”
Harry snorted. “Light blue. Gimme something stealthier than her personality.”
“Rude,” Amy said, already unholstering.
Gary looked between them, then pointed at the light blue with a shrug. “If it works, I don’t care if it’s hot pink and polka dots.”
James went practical, looking to the Moogle. “No standard black?”
The Moogle made a face like James had asked it to print a receipt on a chipped tablet. “No, kupo.”
G stepped forward last. “If the conversion won’t foul the action, put one on mine. Function over fashion.”
“Three hundred Munny each, kupo. Friends of friends discount already applied.”
Donald’s feathers puffed at the math. “WAK—that’s—” He fumbled at his pouch, glared at it like it had personally betrayed him, then grumbled and started paying anyway. “You all better pay us back. With interest.”
G didn’t blink. “We’ll settle accounts when this is over.”
The Moogle worked fast—deft little paws, a hex key that looked like a toy, adapters clicking neatly into place on rails that hadn’t even existed a moment ago. When the last one was fitted, it gestured toward a bare patch of wall. “Test fire, kupo.”
Harry drew first, sighted on a cracked section of plaster, and squeezed. The gun’s report softened into something clean, a bolt of white-blue light streaking across the corridor. It struck with a whump, sparks scattering, and left behind a pale scorch mark instead of blackened stone.
“Whoa…” Sora breathed, wide-eyed.
Gary let out a low whistle. “I’ll be damned.”
“Language,” Jiminy scolded reflexively, then blinked at himself. “My apologies. That was… surprising.”
James tested his with the precision of a man disarming a bomb. G fired a single round, following the way the light walked along the stone, calculation flickering in his eyes.
“Recoil reduction’s real,” Harry said, cycling the mag. “And capacity—did my counter just jump?”
“Photon conversion compresses the payload, kupo,” the Moogle said proudly. “More zip, less bulk. You’re welcome.”
Sora stepped up to the counter, Keyblade in hand, trying desperately to look mature about it. “Do you have anything for… uh… this?” He lifted the blade into view.
The Moogle’s pom-pom dimmed as it studied the weapon. “A special thing, kupo.”
“So…?” Sora asked, hopeful.
“So… not yet,” the Moogle said, apologetic but unmoving. “Keyblade upgrades are particular.”
“Huh? How come?”
“Requires synthesis, rare components, careful tempering. Not in stock, kupo.”
Donald’s laugh was a quack with edges. “Looks like someone’s not getting an upgrade.”
“Shut up…” Sora’s cheeks puffed. “I just—oh fine!”
“It’s not about favourites,” the Moogle added gently. “It’s about timing, kupo. Sometimes the story says, ‘Not now.’”
Sora deflated with a sigh he didn’t want to have. “Yeah. Okay.”
Sonic bumped his arm. “Hey. I’ll lend you my shoes if you promise not to crash into anything.”
“Thanks, Sonic…” Sora sighed, glancing down at the new footwear. “But I doubt they’d even fit me.”
Sonic snickered, pointing at Sora’s enormous yellow shoes. “With feet that big? Yeah, you’re right.”
“HEY!” Sora yelped, his face flushing.
Donald and Goofy burst out laughing, Jiminy chuckled, and even the AMS agents cracked smiles.
“They are big shoes, kid,” James admitted, smirking.
“They’re fashionable!” Sora shot back, stamping a foot defensively.
Amy arched an eyebrow, lips quirking. “Fashionable where, exactly? A clown parade?”
Gary barked a short laugh. “Looks like he’s smuggling life rafts.”
Donald leaned in with a smug grin. “Forget the Keyblade, Sora—just stomp the Heartless flat!”
“Hyack!” Goofy wheezed, clutching his belly as he fought for air.
Sora’s shoulders hunched. “You guys are the worst…”
“Aw, come on,” Sonic said, grinning wide. “It’s a joke. No harm done.”
“Not funny!” Sora pouted, crossing his arms.
Jiminy, perched on Goofy’s shoulder, flipped open his journal with a knowing sigh:
First Moogle sighting in this world—merchant, speaks “kupo,” takes Munny, sells surprisingly tasteful hardware. Donald gloats. Sora sulks. Sonic gets new shoes and rediscovers a new way to break all known speed limits. He tapped the page with his pen, then underlined pay them back twice for good measure.
“What about those restoratives you mentioned?” G asked, business-like, his gaze settling back on the Moogle. “We used one earlier. It was… minty.”
The Moogle sniffed the air like a sommelier. “Potions, kupo. Not my make, but good enough. I can spare a few standards at a friendly price—fifty Munny each.”
Donald winced like someone had stomped on his foot. “Two. Two only!”
The Moogle lined up two green bottles, corked and sealed with red wax stamped with a tiny pom-pom. Goofy took one, whilst G took the other. “Remember, kupo—splash application works fine. Drinking is permissible, but less delicious than it looks.”
Goofy’s eyes widened. “G learned that already.”
“And we will not be discussing it further,” Donald said, side-eyeing G.
“We will be discussing,” G replied pleasantly.
“Why?” Donald demanded, stomping his webbed foot.
“Because in my line of work,” G said evenly, “if something keeps me alive, I want a full report on what it was, how it worked, and why. Ignorance is just another way to die.”
Donald opened his beak to argue, then shut it again with a disgruntled groan.
Sonic and Sora exchanged a look—half exasperation, half respect. G wasn’t someone who let details slide.
The little bell chimed again as the Moogle closed the cash box. The shop’s lantern glow eased a notch, ready to dim out.
“Before you go, kupo,” it said, quieter now. “A hint for the arena.” It lifted a paw and traced a circle in the air. Dust motes swirled, then took shape—just for a breath—into a suggestion of tiered stands, broken gates, and something moving beneath the floor like a slow animal. “Waves. Doors that open when too many minds think ‘solo.’ Watch your rhythm. And when the dark gets clever, get cleverer, kupo.”
“Solo?” Goofy mused, scratching his chin.
Sora leaned forward, curiosity rousing. “Cleverer how?”
“That’s for heroes to find out, kupo.”
Sonic flexed his wrist, the bracelet charm glinting once with its own memory of light. “Bit cryptic, but we’ll manage.”
“Mm.” The Moogle’s pom-pom brightened, dimmed. “One more thing.” It looked between Sora and Donald with the keen, exasperated mercy of a teacher who had seen this particular homework problem a thousand times. “Arguing sharpens nothing before a fight, kupo. Save the sparks for the monsters.”
Donald huffed. Sora looked at the floor. Goofy gave them both a hopeful thumbs-up.
G lifted his hand, gathered their attention with that calm that made chaos decide it had somewhere else to be. “Equipment checked. Supplies topped off. Objective unchanged.” He turned to the stall. “Thank you for your services.”
“Spend wisely, fight bravely, and come back if you live, kupo,” the Moogle chirped. The shop gave a tiny bow, then folded itself back into the satchel neatly.
The lantern light guttered out. Dust settled. The corridor felt larger without that little gravity well of commerce in the middle of it.
Sonic hopped in place once, feet warm with new possibility. “Okay. That was… something.”
“Agreed,” Gary muttered, corner of his mouth twitching.
Harry spun his gun, caught it, and holstered with a satisfied pat. “Light guns. Cute name. Big punch.”
Goofy tightened the straps on his shield and looked at Sora with kind eyes. “We’ll get ya somethin’ next time, pal.”
Sora forced a smile that didn’t quite reach. “Yeah. I know.”
Donald twirled his Morning Star, then shouldered it, trying to look like he hadn’t wanted the more expensive option all along. “Let’s get this over with.”
The group moved on, deeper into the Colosseum, gear a little heavier, steps a little lighter. As they neared the next arch, a draft came through that smelled like rain and old iron. Somewhere ahead, something groaned—the slow open of a gate that hadn’t worked properly in years. Sora rolled his shoulders, tried to pull his focus out of the sore spot in his chest and onto the now.
“Hey,” Sonic said quietly, matching his pace. “Next time you go to swing at Donald with words, swing at me instead.”
Sora blinked. “What? Why you?”
“Because I’m faster,” Sonic said, smirking. “I can dodge.”
Sora huffed out a laugh despite himself. “Jerk.”
“Yeah,” Sonic said, then waggled his fingers at the nearest empty space. “But I got shiny new shoes.”
“Boys,” Jiminy said, looking at them from Goofy’s shoulder, “perhaps we save the banter for after our date with Goldman, hmm?”
“You got it, coach,” Sonic said.
G raised a hand, fingers splayed. The agents fanned out on instinct. Donald and Goofy fell into a flanking posture that spoke of a hundred worlds crossed and guarded. Sora lifted the Keyblade, the sting of no-upgrade already traded for the familiar weight of responsibility.
At the final bend before the arena entrance, Sonic paused. He glanced back the way they’d come and tipped a salute into the empty air.
Somewhere, far away and beneath it all, he hoped a certain little guardian of a shopkeeper felt it.
“Kupo…” he murmured with a smirk.
Meanwhile - Traverse Town Second District Hotel - Red Room
[Traverse Town - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Re:MiX starts playing]
Leon stood with his back to the door, arms folded, all angles and silence. Tails hovered half a step to his right, twin-tails flicking in restless loops. On the bed, Aerith sat with her hands folded neatly in her lap—the picture of kindness, even in a world built from refugees and second chances. Yuffie sprawled beside her, boots on the coverlet until Aerith nudged them off with a look. The ninja answered with a sheepish grin and didn’t budge an inch.
Across the room, Shadow mirrored Leon almost perfectly: arms folded, posture rigid, a dark line cutting the room in half. They were so alike that even the light seemed uncertain which stoic to favour.
Yuffie squinted, tilted her head, then snapped her fingers. “Okay, does this place come with two statues or what? Same stance, same mood, same ‘I wrestle silence for breakfast’ face.” She gestured between them. “Twinsies.”
Leon’s mouth didn’t move. “Focus.”
Shadow’s didn’t either. “Agreed.”
Yuffie stage-whispered to Aerith, “They practiced that,” earning a soft laugh that loosened the air.
“We don’t have much time,” Leon said, unfolding just enough to glance at Tails. “Lay it out for him, Tails.”
Tails nodded, sliding naturally into the role of bridge, looking to the brooding hedgehog. “Right. Big picture. As you know, Mobius was destroyed by the Heartless. Now they’re popping up across the worlds, ripping out hearts. Even here in Traverse Town. Sora—a kid from Destiny Islands, also lost to darkness—has the Keyblade. He’s teamed up with Donald and Goofy to find the King and his missing friends. Sonic is with them. He’s experienced, but he can’t travel between worlds on his own. Donald and Goofy have a Gummi Ship, but it’s… let’s just say ‘starter model.’ They’ll be back here sooner or later, looking for a real engine and a hull that won’t fall apart if you sneeze on it.”
“Cid’s on it,” Leon added. “But Gummi work takes time. And parts.”
Tails drew a breath, steadying himself. “Meanwhile, our problem. The Master Emerald shattered when Mobius fell. Chaos Emeralds and shards are scattered. Darkness is… well, interfering with everything.”
Shadow’s eyes slid to Tails—measuring, then approving by the barest degree. He lifted his right hand, palm up.
The air tightened. Red bled across his glove, not a glow so much as pressure, and then a gemstone resolved—facets catching the light like embers. The red Chaos Emerald hovered above his palm for a heartbeat, humming at a pitch you felt in your teeth, before sinking into his grip as though it had always belonged there.
The room leaned in as one.
“A Chaos Emerald!” Tails gasped, eyes wide. “You found one!”
“Yes,” Shadow said simply.
“—whoa,” Yuffie breathed, immediately leaning from the bed’s edge. “Can I—”
“No,” Shadow said, not even looking at her.
She pouted like he’d swiped the last cookie. “Mr. Ultimate Lifeform is stingy.”
Aerith touched her arm, a gentle tether. “Yuffie…”
“What?” Yuffie shrugged. “I just wanna see it!”
“Hands off,” Shadow muttered bluntly.
“OOH!” Yuffie cried, throwing up her hands in mock surrender.
Ignoring her dramatics, Tails’s eyes shone with recognition. “So that’s how you got here. Chaos Control.”
Shadow closed his fingers around the gem. Even muffled by the fabric of his white gloves, the emerald’s thrum got under your skin. “Yes,” he said. “But travel was turbulent.”
Leon’s brow pulled the way it did when a problem sharpened into a threat. “Because of the darkness?”
“The darkness,” Shadow echoed. “And the Master Emerald being in pieces. Without its stabilising field, Chaos energy is… ungoverned. Direction is possible, precision is not. I was bounced between worlds like a stone across a lake.” His eyes flicked to Tails. “When I could, I tried to lock onto anyone who could attune to the emeralds’ frequency.”
“You mean like Sonic?” Tails asked.
“Sonic,” Shadow allowed. “Knuckles. Even you.” He slid the Emerald away in a flicker of red and absence, like a heartbeat you almost heard and then didn’t. “And look where I landed. A place where lost things wash up.”
“Right you are,” Yuffie said, sweeping a hand in the air. “Welcome to the most happening exile in the cosmos. Stay for the ambience, leave because of the rent.”
Aerith’s smile angled towards Shadow, something tender behind it. “However you came, we’re grateful you made it. You’re safe here.”
Something in Shadow’s face shifted, imperceptible to anyone not looking for it. He was used to kindness as a memory, not an offering; Aerith’s felt like sunlight through an old window. For half a second, Maria’s face superimposed itself over Aerith’s—same calm, same stubborn faith that tomorrow would be better if they made it through today.
“Safe is relative,” Shadow said firmly, but not unkind.
Yuffie popped a hand in the air. “Okay, question. Follow-up, science edition. How—exactly—does Chaos Control work? Do you push a button? Think hard about your favourite ice cream? Sprinkle glitter and clap?”
“I don’t have time for lectures,” Shadow said bluntly, patience thinning.
“But we do,” Leon countered, tone flat enough to skate on. “We need to know what our assets can do. And where the limits are.”
Aerith nodded, her voice the gentler twin of the same insistence. “Help us to help you, Shadow.”
Tails tilted his head towards Shadow. “If you explain the basics, I can translate.”
Shadow exhaled, a concession and a fuse. “Fine. Chaos Control is spatial-temporal translation through directed resonance. The Emerald provides a vast, reactive energy source. I—focus it—on a target. A place. A signature. The Emerald amplifies intent into a path. Space bends. Time stretches just enough to make the distance… irrelevant.”
“Okay,” Yuffie said brightly, “so it is glitter and clapping.”
“How old are you to give an answer like that?” Shadow asked curtly, his crimson eyes narrowing on her.
“It’s rude to ask someone’s age, ya’ know…” Yuffie shot back, folding her arms and bouncing a little on the bed’s edge.
“Then I’d suggest you grow-up fast,” Shadow said flatly. “The universe won’t wait for you.”
“Okay… oof.” Yuffie exaggerated the sting, slumping back in mock defeat. Aerith giggled, while Leon only shook his head.
Tails smothered a smile at the banter, then jumped in before the mood could curdle. “Think of it like… tuning a radio, except the radio is reality, and the station is a person or place that emits a particular ‘song.’ The Master Emerald is like the tower that keeps all the stations from bleeding into each other. With it destroyed, there’s a lot of static. Shadow can still tune in, but you get interference, misjumps, temporal hiccups.”
“Temporal hiccups,” Leon repeated. “How bad.”
“Minor, for now,” Shadow said bluntly, arms folding. “Seconds stretched. Moments doubled. The kind of thing that makes you wonder if you blinked twice or time did.” His mouth tightened. “It will get worse if the shards are left unfound.”
“Then we won’t leave them,” Leon said simply.
Shadow’s eyes slid back to him, the shared stoicism resolving into the outline of a working agreement.
“So, tell me…” he said flatly. “The boy Sora. The King’s followers. Why is Sonic with them?”
Aerith’s smile warmed again. “He likes helping people.”
“Helping people,” Shadow said, so deadpan it might have been contempt except for the faintest lift at the corner of his mouth. “And?”
Leon’s answer cut closer to home. “Sora’s the Keyblade’s chosen one. He’s raw. Strong heart, little experience. Donald and Goofy can travel between worlds—they have the ship—but they’re not fighters on Sonic’s level. He balances the team and keeps them alive. From what I’ve seen and heard, the hedgehog knows how to make impossible things… less impossible.”
Tails nodded, cheeks dimpling with pride he tried not to show. “And, uh… Sonic can’t exactly Chaos Control.”
“He can,” Shadow corrected, blunt as a gunshot.
Tails winced, rubbing the back of his head. “I know he can. It’s just… he doesn’t carry an emerald like you do.”
That caught Aerith’s attention. Her head tilted, voice soft but curious. “Wait—Sonic can do it too?”
Shadow’s eyes met hers, steady and certain. “Yes. He’s done it before—with a fake emerald.”
“Fake emerald?” Yuffie repeated, already leaning forward like she’d been handed gossip.
“I… made it years ago,” Tails admitted sheepishly, twin tails flicking. “It was supposed to fool Doctor Eggman into thinking he had the real thing. Didn’t exactly go according to plan.”
Aerith smiled faintly. “But it worked?”
“More than it should have,” Shadow affirmed. “Chaos Control requires a true emerald. By all logic, what Sonic did should’ve been impossible. Yet…”
“The Blue Blur makes the impossible, possible.” Yuffie grinned wide, clearly enjoying herself.
“Yes,” Shadow said, tone flat but not without a hint of weight. “But he doesn’t use it freely. Not like I do.”
Tails stepped in again, eager to fill the gaps. “For Sonic, it’s instinct. He doesn’t think about formulas or focus. He just… believes. That’s what carries him through when I can’t explain the science.”
Leon finally unfolded his arms. “Well, regardless. He still needs a ride to move between worlds. The Gummi Ship’s fine for starters, but it won’t hold up forever.” His gaze cut back to Shadow. “That’s why they needed each other. Chaos Control can bend reality, but it won’t build him a road. Not without you—or the emeralds.”
Shadow nodded and let that sit, then shifted. “And you, fox. As Sonic’s understudy… you didn’t go with him?”
Tails took the hit with a swallow and met Shadow’s eyes anyway. “I wanted to go. I really did. But somebody has to build the upgrades they’re going to need. Cid needs a second pair of hands to help out. Traverse Town needs someone who can fix the things that keep breaking because monsters don’t care about maintenance schedules. I can find shards from here. I can build comms. I can make sure when they come back, they leave stronger than they arrived.”
Shadow considered him. Approval wasn’t something he handed out; it was something other people noticed later. “That makes sense.”
“Sometimes,” Yuffie said, flopping back on her elbows, “the smartest hero is the one who picks the right battlefield.”
“Sometimes,” Leon replied.
Shadow reached into the space between moments and pulled out paper.
It shouldn’t have made sense. The thin journal leaf absolutely hadn’t been in his glove a blink ago. It was there now, edges foxed, worn by fingers that had turned it over too many times. Shadow held it like he might hold a scalpel—unwilling to pretend it wasn’t sharp.
“I found this on my way here,” Shadow said, producing the page as if it had slipped through reality itself. “Something about hearts. Energy cores.”
Leon’s posture sharpened. Aerith’s breath caught. Yuffie snapped upright like a spring, all bounce gone in an instant.
Tails leaned forward, curiosity tumbling ahead of him. “Is that—?”
“Ansem,” Leon said flatly, naming it before Shadow even unfolded the page.
Shadow echoed it, slower. “…Ansem.” The word felt strange on his tongue, like it didn’t belong there. His brow furrowed, eyes narrowing. “That name. Why does it bother me so much…?” he thought.
The hedgehog’s gaze drifted unfocused, chasing after a thread of memory that refused to catch. He had heard it before—he was sure of it. Somewhere in the shadows of the ARK. A half-whisper in the lab. Maria’s soft voice telling him stories to ease the nights. Or maybe Gerald himself, muttering over equations too complex for a child to follow. The memory was hazy, fragmented, but undeniable.
“Who is he?” Shadow questioned, looking around the room.
“A ruler once,” Aerith added softly. She then looked down at her hands. “Before… everything.”
“I see…”
“Read it,” Yuffie said, all her bounce sheathed for the moment in a very new kind of attention. “Please.”
Shadow’s eyes moved across the lines; his voice came out low, threaded with a dislike he hadn’t earned yet but carried anyway.
Ansem Report 6:
“A massive core of energy lay beyond the door sought by the Heartless. It may be the ultimate goal of the Heartless. But what is that energy? I have devised a hypothesis, based upon my observations of the Heartless.
The Heartless feed on others’ hearts, and they yearn for that energy core. That thing beyond the door must be a heart, too—the heart of this world. There is no proof, but, having felt that immense energy, I am certain. That was the heart of the world.
The Heartless are trying to take hearts not only from all living creatures, but from the planet itself. But what do they mean to do with the heart of the world?”
Silence took the room by the hand and set it down in the middle.
“Well,” Yuffie said first—because she always did. “That’s one down. How many more to go?”
“Thirteen in total,” Leon answered, because of course he knew. “Which means twelve remain.”
“That report…” Aerith murmured. “It makes sense of what we already suspected.”
“Yeah,” Tails admitted, arms folding tight across his chest. “Heartless attacking the heart of a world. Which means—”
“Which means what we already knew,” Shadow cut in, blunt as steel. “They destroyed Mobius by striking its core. Proof enough.”
Leon’s mouth tightened, his own arms folding again. “I suppose so.”
“Just like our home from home…” Yuffie sighed, glancing at Aerith. Aerith’s soft nod said the rest.
Shadow turned the page over, then back again, as if the act might coax out a secret in the margins. But the name in the corner was what gnawed at him. “Ansem,” he said slowly, tasting the syllables like a code whispered in a dream. His eyes narrowed. “It bothers me. And I don’t know why.”
Aerith’s gaze softened, kindness wrapped in calm. “Maybe you’ll remember when it matters.”
“Maybe…” Shadow slipped the report away, and with it, some of the room’s restless unease. Nothing was solved, but a path had been named—and sometimes that was enough for now.
“Tell me, Tails” he asked, eyes cutting towards the fox. “How far will their ship get… before it breaks?”
Tails rocked his hand. “From what I’ve gathered, it’ll limp along the lanes for a bit. But they’ll hit a wall soon. They’ll need a better engine, a recalibrated Nav-G, and hull plating that isn’t repurposed toy plastic.”
“Sounds like you and Cid will be busy,” Leon said, glancing his way.
“Keeps us out of trouble,” Tails replied with a smile. “Plus… I’ve been working on upgrades for Sonic’s bracelet. He’ll be thrilled for sure.”
“Bracelet?” Shadow asked, his tone edged with curiosity.
“Oh, right…” Tails brightened, always happy to explain. “It was Chip’s old necklace. I reforged it into an Elemental Conduit. Right now, it lets Sonic channel fire—but once he’s back, I can slot in more. Ice. Thunder. Maybe even some defensive properties.”
“Chip…” Shadow repeated. His eyes narrowed slightly. “Light Gaia, correct?”
“That’s the one,” Tails confirmed with a nod.
“So… you’re working with magic now?” Shadow mused, intrigued.
“I guess so,” Tails admitted, scratching the back of his head. “Being here, seeing what’s going on—it made me think outside the box. Sometimes science doesn’t cover everything.”
Shadow gave a slow nod. “A fox of science, dabbling in magic. Perhaps you’re learning.”
The room fell quiet after that. A new ship would be needed—something stronger, safer—if the heroes were going to reach other worlds intact. For a brief moment, everyone seemed to weigh the scale of what lay ahead.
Then, of course, Yuffie broke it, sprawling out again with her grin sliding back into place. “Okay. One more question, Mr. Emerald-No-Sharing.” She tilted her head at Shadow. “Do ya wanna know more about the Keyblade? Want the full, dazzling Yuffie Kisaragi lecture? It’s got diagrams and everything!”
“I already know of it…” Shadow revealed flatly.
Three voices overlapped at once.
Aerith: “You do?”
Tails: “How?”
Yuffie: “What?!”
Leon didn’t sound surprised. He rarely did. If anything, he looked like he’d expected this from the moment Shadow entered the room. “Explain.”
“It all started on the ARK,” Shadow said, his voice levelling out into a story he had never told aloud. “In the library no one used, with the books Maria loved, and the stories she told about keys that could lock anything… even the dark.”
Notes:
And that’s Part 4 wrapped up!
This one felt like a big step forward compared to the original draft—definitely an improvement ten-fold. We’ve now got Shadow properly meeting Leon, Aerith, and Yuffie, and it opens up some really interesting dynamics for the arcs ahead.
The opening with Sonic and Sora talking about death and endings is something I’d been wanting to explore for a while. It just clicked that Curien and Goldman’s obsession with “conquering death” mirrors somewhat Merlina’s ideologies in Sonic and the Black Knight. Sonic’s line in that game—“What good is a world if it goes on forever?”—really hits home here and ties the themes together.
We also get G dropping more about the Papa Caesar incident, with a few hints about who else might have been involved. Long-time readers of the Saga will probably catch the connections…
The Moogle debut was fun to write, giving the team their upgrades (sorry, Sora—you’ll have to wait a little longer!). It added some levity before the chaos of the Colosseum.
Meanwhile, Shadow explaining Chaos Control to Leon, Aerith, and Yuffie gave us our first in-story Ansem Report (No. 6). The fact that the name “Ansem” bothers Shadow is going to matter later.
Not much more to add right now. Part 5 and Part 6 (our Colosseum showdown and Goldman HQ arc - going to be action heavy) are coming in the next couple of weeks. Once they’re ready, I’ll also be uploading this over to FF.Net alongside AO3.
Thanks for reading—see you in the next one!
Chapter 13: Città Morta di Venezia (House of the Dead 2) Part 5: Strength
Notes:
Part 5 is here! Part 6 will be out mid-October.
I'm currently on holiday/vacation, so I wanted to get something uploaded before taking a week off. This chapter might feel a little rushed in places—apologies if so—but I hope you enjoy it all the same.
Thanks so much to everyone who's been reading, following, and favouriting the Remaster. Your support means a lot, and I hope the ride's been as fun for you as it has been for me!
No ending notes due to time —just dive in and enjoy!
Chapter Text
Città Morta di Venezia (House of the Dead 2) Part 5: Strength
COLOSSEUM ARENA
The once-great arena lay hollow now, its stands collapsed into jagged teeth, its floor cracked open by time. The air was heavy and stale, carrying only the echo of the group's own footfalls.
Even Sonic's grin faded a notch. He could feel the weight here, a hush thick enough to smother the sound.
Goofy's head twitched. His teeth chattered faintly as he muttered, "Gawrsh… gives me the shivers. Feels like the shadows're starin' right back at us."
Donald's grip on his new staff tightened. His eyes flicked across the broken pillars. "Yeah… I don't like it. Not one bit. Feels like we're bein' watched."
Sora forced a smile, his voice steady even if his chest wasn't. "We've faced worse than this. As long as we stick together, we can handle anything. Let's keep moving and find Goldman."
"Agreed," Sonic chimed in, taking in the sights around them. "Mind you, this place could use a few cleaning supplies while we're at it," Sonic added lightly, trying to cut the tension.
Hearing the hedgehog, James glanced up at the ruined arches. "This Colosseum was built for battle. Centuries of warriors fought here. Now it's our turn."
The thought had barely settled when static hissed through the arena. A broken screen hanging over the battlefield shuddered to life, flooding the shadows with pale light.
"A TV? Here?" Sonic remarked, puzzled. "I didn't think ancient gladiators had cable."
"No," Amy admitted, baffled. "They definitely didn't."
"Thought so…"
The screen cleared, and Goldman's face filled the frame. His voice poured out cold and mocking, echoing through the broken arches.
"People of the AMS… the Blue Blur… the King's Followers… and the Keyblade's Master. I am Goldman. Stand against me if you wish—it won't matter. In time, you'll learn who was right."
His laughter was blunt, empty of joy, a hollow rasp that crawled across the air and raised gooseflesh.
"Man… that voice is something else," Sonic muttered, arms crossed. "Wouldn't want him hosting a party."
Sora tilted his head. "He does sound—"
"Boring?" Donald cut in.
"Hey! I was going to sa—"
"Shh, fellas," Goofy interrupted, his voice firmer than usual. Jiminy, perched neatly on his shoulder, gave a solemn nod. The knight's long arm gestured forward, eyes steady on the agents. "Somethin' is goin' down."
The AMS operatives stepped ahead in unison, weapons rising, their focus locked squarely on the flickering broadcast.
"Caleb Goldman," G declared, voice iron as he looked up at the giant screen. "You are in violation of multiple accords and humanitarian conventions. Your involvement in the Curien Mansion incident remains on record. This ends tonight."
"You've crossed every line there is," Gary snapped, weapon steady. "Biohazard restrictions. Unauthorised experimentation. Weapons development outside any chain of command. We're here to shut you down."
James lifted his rifle with practiced precision. "Your creatures, your research, your entire operation—it dies with you. Effective immediately."
Amy's eyes narrowed, her tone sharp. "And the Heartless you've twisted into your ranks? They won't spread any further. Not on our watch."
The barrage of clipped jargon and legalese washed right past Sora, Donald, and Goofy, leaving them all blinking like someone had just recited a textbook.
Goofy leaned sideways, scratching his head. "Uh… did you get any o' that?"
Donald folded his arms with a scowl. "Nope."
Sonic tilted his head, flashing a lopsided grin. "Sounds like one of G.U.N.'s mission briefings—lots of rules, no coffee." He cast Donald a sly glance. "Or when Donnie starts going on about a certain Order…"
Donald quacked loudly, feathers bristling. "Hey! Don't joke about that!" His arms flapped in wild irritation.
"Relax," Sonic teased, hands raised in mock innocence. "I wasn't sayin' anything negative."
"Fellas!" Jiminy hopped higher on Goofy's shoulder, waving his tiny hands like a referee calling time-out. "Quiet down! This isn't the moment for jokes!"
"Yeah," Goofy agreed, turning his head toward Harry. "Say, Harry—mind breakin' down what all that meant?"
Harry sighed, long-suffering, and nudged his shades higher up his nose. "Translation? Goldman's been making monsters for years. That mansion fiasco? That's why we're here to take him down."
Amy shot Sora a look, her voice dry. "You've heard that part from the others, haven't you?"
Sora blinked, then straightened quickly, nodding with sudden confidence. "Ohhh—yeah! The Mansion Incident. Got it."
The screen crackled with static. Goldman's laughter crawled through it, flat and joyless.
"Consider this… a gift," he sneered.
Shadows across the colosseum stretched across the cracked stone, pooling unnaturally, as if the arena itself were bleeding darkness through every gap. The air grew heavy, charged with a hiss that wasn't quite sound.
Sora gripped the Kingdom Key tighter. Goofy raised his Stout Shield high, whilst Donald's feathers bristled, raising his new Morning Star staff. Even Sonic's body zipped with energy as he shifted his stance.
From his place at the front, G lifted two fingers—a commander's signal. His eyes swept the field, calm and exact.
"Harry. Amy. You're up," he said. "Support the boy, the duck, the dog… and the hedgehog. That's enough for the first wave."
"Wait, wait—hold up." Sonic threw his hands out, baffled. "This ain't an RPG, G. You don't just assign parties."
G didn't even blink. "You've got the numbers. Gary, James, and I will hold back—analyse the enemy. We'll intervene if needed."
"Fine…" Sonic groaned, shrugging it off.
"Good plan," Jiminy piped up. He hopped down from Goofy's shoulder and landed neatly on the floor. "I'll hang back too—keep a record, keep an eye out."
"Gawrsh, good thinkin,' Jiminy," Goofy agreed. "Somebody's gotta keep track."
"Stay safe," Sora added, crouching low with his Keyblade raised.
The ground trembled. Black pools bubbled and thickened, tar boiling into shape. Figures rose out of the muck—human outlines stretched wrong. Limbs too long, necks bent sharp, jaws split with jagged teeth like shattered glass. Their chests burned with the sigil of the Heartless, and when their eyes lit—yellow, hollow, and ravenous.
Amy froze for half a second, weapon snapping up. "What… what are those?"
"Heartless!" Sora blurted.
"That's no ordinary Heartless," Harry muttered.
"Yeah, they look different!" Donald added, staff lifted high.
"More like a mash-up," Sonic said, green eyes narrowing as he crouched low. "Heartless crossed with those Davids."
"Gawrsh—he's right!" Goofy gasped.
James grimaced, even as he held back. "Goldman's blended darkness with science. A new strain of abomination."
Donald gagged. "That's sick!"
"Experimentation," G said, voice clipped. His weapon stayed angled but lowered. "Curien tried to master the life cycle. Goldman's funding—and the darkness—pushed it further. And fouler."
The hybrids hissed, claws dragging sparks as they surged forward, shadows spilling like oil in their wake.
Sonic's bracelet glimmered, fire licking faint at his wrist. He clenched a gloved fist, a grin cutting across his face. "Doesn't matter what mix they are—we'll smash 'em all the same. Team effort, guys!"
Sora nodded, Keyblade tightening in his hands. "Right!"
The arena floor thundered as the creatures broke into a charge.
The heroes braced shoulder to shoulder—Keyblade gleaming, shield raised, staff sparking, blades and pistols steady, Light Speed Shoes itching to run. Magic and firepower, strength, and speed—all gathered against the storm of Goldman's new abominations.
The hybrid David-Heartless approached. Shadows dripped off their bodies like oil as they prowled across the Colosseum's ancient ground.
Sonic, Sora, Amy, and Harry took the front line. Behind them, Donald and Goofy braced, Jiminy retreating to the other AMS agents.
"Here they come!" Sora called Keyblade at the ready.
Amy's Light Gun was the first to strike. Blasts of concentrated light burst across the arena, cutting through two hybrids before they had a chance to lunge. Harry fell into rhythm beside her, his own Light Gun hammering a rapid volley that shredded a cluster of Davids into smoke and sparks. The agents moved like a unit—clean, precise, practiced.
"Not bad," Sonic admitted with a grin as his bracelet pulsed. A surge of flame sparked at his wrist before trailing down his arm. He kicked forward, wind whipping into a spiral. "But let's see them handle this!"
He tore into the mob with a Flame Spin Dash, sparks bursting as he carved a fiery arc through their ranks. The hybrids shrieked, bodies splitting into shadow as he skidded out of the spin and flicked embers from his quills.
Sora was already among them, his Keyblade a silver blur. He darted from foe to foe with Slapshot, each strike ringing sharp. A hybrid lunged—he countered with Guard, the clang resonating before he spun into a clean upward combo that shattered its form.
"Not bad for a warmup!" he shouted over the noise.
Donald's staff glowed, raising it high. "Thunder!"
Bolts rained down, catching three hybrids mid-leap and blasting them into smoke. Then he swung his staff again—this time ice erupted in a wave, freezing two where they stood before Goofy charged in shattering them apart.
Sora skidded to a halt, wide-eyed. "Donald—when did you—?"
"I'm the Royal Mage, remember!" Donald snapped, feathers bristling with pride.
Sonic barked a laugh even as he kicked another hybrid aside. "Guess somebody's been holdin' out on us!"
"Shut up!" Donald quacked furiously, though the corners of his beak twitched upward despite himself.
Charging in, Goofy raised his new shield, catching a hybrid with a booming clang. "Gawrsh, these fellas hit hard!" He pivoted, hurling the shield—it whistled through the air and struck three hybrids in a row before snapping back to his arm. "But they ain't gettin' past us!"
Nearby, Amy reloaded in one swift motion, twirling her gun as she lined up a clean shot.
"Harry—left flank!" she called.
"On it!" Harry shouted back. Together they riddled the advancing line with light-fire, precise enough that Sonic and Sora could surge through the gaps.
From the back, G's voice carried steady. "Patterns noted. Their cores react strongest to light. Harry, Amy—suppressing fire, keep them boxed."
"Copying movement speed—documenting recoil," Gary remarked, taking notes.
James narrowed his focus. "Light Guns drain quickly. Don't overextend."
Back in the thick of it, a cluster of hybrids broke through. One raked claws across Donald's side, forcing him back. His beak clenched. Instead of faltering, his eyes went fierce.
"WAK!" he bellowed, staff glowing wildly.
Power flooded him. He unleashed a storm of spells—fire roaring in twin arcs, ice erupting in shards, thunder splitting the sky. Each incantation came faster, sharper, as his magic burned and replenished in furious rhythm.
"Take THAT!" Donald cried, his voice echoing across the Colosseum as the Heartless Davids scattered before his wrath.
Sora blinked at him through the smoke, a laugh breaking loose despite the chaos. "That's more like it, Donald!"
Donald glanced away, still grumbling, but the corner of his eye softened.
Together, the tide began to turn. Sonic's bracelet flared with every strike, fire bursting brighter each time he hit the ground running. Sora's combos chained smoother, Keyblade carving clean through shadows. Goofy blocked and countered, shielding his friends while tossing his weapon to disrupt groups. Amy and Harry's Light Guns never relented, a ceaseless wall of light shredding the horde from range.
One by one, the hybrid Davids fell apart into smoke and green goo until the battlefield lay still. The Colosseum floor was scarred, but silent.
Sora spun his Keyblade smiling, bright and unshaken. "We did it. Great job, everyone."
Sonic smirked, flicking dust from his glove. "Not bad for a bunch of misfits, huh?"
Amy lowered her weapon, exchanging a grin with Harry. "You're not so bad yourself, partner."
Harry reloaded smoothly, nodding. "Not too shabby at all."
"Hyuck… reckon that's one for the record books, Jiminy," Goofy remarked, calling over to Jiminy who was standing by G, James, and Gary.
"You said it Goofy," Jiminy called out. The cricket's pencil was already scribbling furiously. "Wouldn't miss it for the world."
G, James, and Gary approached the heroes, weapons lowered but eyes sharp. Perched on G's shoulder, Jiminy clutched his little journal like it was a lifeline.
"You handled yourselves well," G said evenly. "Those things weren't ordinary Heartless. Every strike told us more."
"Exceptional performance," James added, though his voice carried the weight of everything still unresolved.
Gary gave a short, approving grunt. "Determination like that will carry us further."
"Good job, folks!" Jiminy added warmly.
Sonic tipped his head back towards the giant screen overhead. Goldman's image still loomed there, unreadable, as though he'd been studying the fight more than the outcome.
Sonic smirked. "Are you not entertained?" he shouted up, arms spread wide. "That the best you've got, you creep?"
The reply was a slow tilt of the head, then a cold smirk cutting across Goldman's face.
"Very good. But that was only a warm-up." His monotone voice scraped across the air like steel dragged on stone.
Sonic dropped his arms, deadpan. "Of course it was…"
"Wait—what?!" Sora yelped, eyes snapping back to the screen.
"A warm-up?!" Donald shouted in alarm.
A hollow clap echoed through the arena speakers. The shadows rippled once more.
From above, something enormous crashed down, shaking the ground hard enough to stagger even Goofy. Stone split. Dust plumed. When it cleared, the abomination stood revealed.
The creature towered over them, shirtless and grotesquely muscular, its body stitched and scarred like a butcher's canvas. A mask hid its face, but the jagged chainsaw in its hands screamed louder than any grin could. The word BLAME was etched into the blade, as if carved by madness itself. Axes jutted from its shoulder and thigh, half-embedded like trophies or warnings. And seared into its chest—the sigil of the Heartless, burning like a brand.
Goldman's voice filled the arena. "Type-205. Codename… Strength. The perfect fusion of man and Heartless. His appetite for destruction knows no bounds."
Jiminy squeaked, nearly falling off G's shoulder. He scrambled down and darted for cover under a cracked pillar. "I'll, uh—just be right here! Don't mind me! And please don't step on me!"
Sonic gave a low whistle, fists raising. "More Heartless-infused muscle. Got it." His grin tugged sharper. "Well, can't say I'm bored."
"Bored?!" Donald barked, hopping in place. "You have to keep running your mouth!"
"Donald's right, Sonic." Goofy agreed, raising his shield high. "Antagonizin' that feller probably isn't smart."
"Meh, I usually get away with it back home," Sonic said with a shrug, fists still raised. "Guess Goldman's worse than Eggman."
Goldman's cold smirk deepened on the flickering screen. "Not all of you will fight him. I want to see the Keyblade's Master… and his companions… tested."
"What?!" James snapped.
"Goldman!" Gary roared. "What are you playing at?!"
Goldman's hands clapped again, and the shadows convulsed. More hybrids oozed out of the cracks—David-Heartless, snarling and clawing. They circled the AMS agents instantly, cutting them off.
"G!" Sora cried, stepping forward as the mob pressed in.
"Focus on that beast, Sora!" G barked back, voice sharp as a gunshot. "We'll hold these off."
Jiminy peeked out from his pillar, antennae twitching. "Keep your eyes on that chainsaw! That thing's got reach!"
Strength revved the blade, the roar rattling the Colosseum's bones. The sheer vibration made the ground quake. The monster leaned forward, eyes glowing faint behind the mask, every inch of him promising carnage.
Sonic clenched his fists tighter, his bracelet sparking faintly at his wrist. "All right. Time to cut the big guy down to size."
Sora raised his Keyblade into guard, swallowing the nerves crawling his chest. "We take this thing down together!"
"More like we survive it," Donald muttered, but his staff was already glowing.
Goofy braced beside them, shield planted. "Here it comes!"
The chainsaw roared violently, and Strength charged.
STRENGTH
Battle Music: The Magician Theme – Original Mode – HOTD2
"Spread out!" Sora shouted, raising his Keyblade into guard.
Sonic was already gone in a flash, weaving past the first swipe. The chainsaw slammed into the floor where he'd been standing, splitting it open in a shower of rubble. Sonic skidded to a stop and grinned. "That all you got, big guy?!"
Strength answered with a roar, swinging the blade sideways. Sonic ducked low, the steel shrieking just inches over his quills, then sprang back with a spinning kick that cracked against the monster's ribs. The brute staggered, but only for a heartbeat before stomping forward again.
Donald and Goofy rushed in together, shield and staff ready. Donald quacked loudly, his feathers puffing. "Blizzard!" A shard of ice flew from his staff, splintering against Strength's chest. Steam hissed where the frost met flesh.
Goofy followed with a shield bash, his Stout Shield slamming into the creature with a clang that reverberated through the Colosseum. "Hyuck! Didn't like that, did ya?"
But Strength lashed out with a powerful kick, sending both sprawling across the cracked floor.
"Donald! Goofy!" Sora cried, breaking formation to dart after them.
Strength lunged for the boy, chainsaw raised high—
—and Sonic blurred across his path, a streak of cobalt light. "Not today!" he shouted.
In a spark of pixelated blue energy, Sonic ran wide and fast, his trail glowing against the cracked stone. The circle snapped shut with a crack, unleashing a burst of force that roared skyward.
The updraft howled like a tornado, tearing at Strength's bulk and dragging the giant off his feet. The brute's roar rattled the arena as his colossal frame lifted into the air.
Sora shielded his eyes from the gale, stunned. "Sonic—what move is that?!"
Sonic's grin flashed back over his shoulder. "New trick called Cyloop. But no time to explain. You're up, Sora!" The hedgehog sprung aside to give Sora the opening.
Sora's legs moved before thought. He leapt into the air, twisting mid-air and slammed down on Strength's mask in a blazing arc. Sparks flew as the weapon struck true.
Strength reeled, crashing back into the ground with a quake that sent dust spiralling skyward.
Donald scrambled upright, wheezing, then braced his staff again. He spun the staff once, twice, then thrust it forward.
"Aero!" he commanded.
A cyclone burst from the tip, winds howling across the Colosseum. The gale tore into Strength's chest, ripping at his flesh and making his chainsaw waver against the push.
Sora blinked, stunned. "Donald—you've been holding out on us?!"
Donald puffed out his chest, feathers bristling proudly. "Wak! A mage never reveals all his tricks at once!"
Goofy chuckled, shield braced at his side. "Hyuk! That's true. Years runnin' with Donald, I've seen a fair share o' surprises. That Aero of his? Can be both offensive and defensive if ya know how to use it."
"Hah. Guess I'm not the only one pulling out upgrades," Sonic joked with a smirk.
Donald huffed, but the corner of his beak twitched like he was hiding a grin.
Sora glanced between them, still gripping the Keyblade, and let out a breathless laugh. "…Guess everyone's levelling up today."
Their banter was cut short as Strength roared, the sound like steel grinding against steel. The chainsaw shrieked louder, tearing at the gale Donald had conjured. With a sudden, vicious swing, the brute caught Goofy square on his shield.
The impact rang out like a thunderclap. Goofy's feet skidded across the cracked stone before he lost balance, tumbling backward with a pained grunt.
"Goofy!" Sora cried, panic lancing through his chest.
Strength bore down on them, chainsaw howling as he raised it high for the finishing blow—
—but Sonic blurred in, striking the brute's arm with a fiery Spin Attack, forcing the blade off course. Donald followed with a desperate blast of Thunder, sparks crawling across Strength's chest and buying just enough space.
Sora was already moving, skidding to Goofy's side as the knight lay groaning on the cracked stone. "Goofy!" he cried, dropping to one knee.
The Keyblade was heavy in his hands, his pulse hammering in his ears.
"Heal him… you can do it."
The voice resonated inside him, calm but firm.
Sora's breath hitched. Me? But… can I really—?
"You can, the voice urged. Don't be afraid. Trust your heart."
Sora clenched his jaw, fear giving way to resolve. He raised the Keyblade high, light gathering at its tip.
"Heal!" he shouted.
Green light burst from the tip, a soft radiance wrapping around Goofy's battered frame. His wounds knitted, breath steadied, and his eyes snapped open in surprise.
"Hyuck… I feel good as new!" Goofy exclaimed, scrambling back to his feet. "Thanks pal!"
"Sora! How did you—?!" Donald called out, turning back slightly to see what happened.
"I… I don't know!" Sora admitted, wide-eyed. "It just came to me."
Sonic shot him a smirk even as he dashed around Strength again, drawing its attention. "Guess your heart's teaching you faster than your head. Not bad!"
Strength roared and swung the chainsaw in a wild arc, forcing Sonic to backflip away. But as he landed, his bracelet pulsed with fiery energy. Sonic crouched, charged, then launched into a Flame Spin Dash, his body whirling into a wheel of fire that streaked across the arena. He smashed into Strength's side, the explosion of sparks and flame forcing the beast to stagger again.
Sora seized the moment, rushing in with a flurry of Slapshot strikes—quick, sharp blows that rattled the monster back. Donald hurled Thunder into the fray, bolts snapping against its mask. Goofy shield-bashed the chainsaw mid-swing, knocking it just wide enough to protect his friends.
The battle became a rhythm: Sonic circling, trapping Strength with Cyloop updrafts; Sora striking high from spring pads; Donald unleashing elemental magic—fire, ice, thunder, and now Aero—with a fury that even surprised him; Goofy anchoring them all, his shield a wall no brute could break.
Strength bellowed, thrashing wildly, but the heroes pressed on. Sonic darted past Sora with a wink. "Let's finish this together!"
Sora nodded, Keyblade glowing brighter than ever.
They moved as one—Sonic charging into another blazing Cyloop that dragged Strength's bulk off balance, Sora leaping skyward on a spring's recoil, Keyblade raised high.
"Now!" Sonic shouted.
Sora dove, Sonic launched—two blurs of light and flame converging in a single heartbeat. The Keyblade's radiance and Sonic's fiery spin collided with a cataclysmic impact, splitting the air in a blinding shockwave.
Strength howled, the mask across his face shattering like glass. His chainsaw sputtered, sparks dying as the darkness that bound him split apart. Cracks of crimson light raced across his body before he crumbled to his knees, the roar in his throat fading into silence.
With one last convulsion, the hulking form collapsed, dissolving into ribbons of shadow. From the wreckage of his being, a red crystalline heart pulsed free, rising slowly into the air. It shimmered once—fragile, beautiful—before vanishing into the grey sky.
Another heart released from the darkness. Another step toward restoring what had been lost.
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: A
Sonic brushed dust off his gloves, a grin tugging at his lips. "Heh. A-Rank. Cool!" He crouched low, sprang into a clean front flip, and landed with a flourish—one hand behind his head, the other flashing a cocky two-finger salute. "Still got it."
Sora laughed, breathless but grinning ear to ear. "An A-Rank! That's amazing!" He pumped his free fist like a kid celebrating a win at the arcade.
Donald, however, threw his hands in the air. "Wak! After my Aero and Sora's Cure?!"
Sonic smirked sideways, shrugging. "Hey, don't blame me!"
Goofy chuckled, resting a steady hand on Sora's shoulder before Donald could wind himself up further. "Gawrsh, fellas, don't fuss none. We won, and Sora… that Cure ya pulled off sure was somethin.'
Sora blinked, then smiled warmly, his chest swelling at the praise. "…Thanks, Goofy."
Donald huffed, muttering, but his eyes softened too. "…Not bad, kid. Not bad."
From his hiding place, Jiminy scribbled briskly into his journal. "Note: First confirmed use of Aero—volatile but effective… somewhat. Also, first successful Cure cast by Sora, self-taught under pressure. Rank: impressive." He looked up and nodded. "A-Rank sounds fair."
As the heroes took a breather, Goldman's monotone voice slithered back through the air. "Well, you've managed to impress me… somewhat. But you've yet to meet the true mastermind behind all of this—The Emperor."
"The Emperor?" Sonic groaned, throwing his arms out. "Seriously, what is it with bad guys and dramatic titles?"
"No more games, Goldman," Sora snapped, voice steady though his chest still heaved from battle. "Where are you?"
"You're welcome to join me at my headquarters. If you dare," Goldman revealed coldly.
The screen fizzed to black, leaving silence so thick it pressed against their ears.
"Headquarters, huh?" Sonic muttered, folding his arms. "Yeah, that definitely isn't a trap."
Before they could dwell on it, movement drew their attention. The AMS agents were huddled around Harry, who was doubled over, one arm clutching his side. Blood seeped dark against his sleeve—but somehow, his shades were still perched squarely on his face.
"Harry!" Amy dropped to her knees beside him, worry etched into her features.
"Is he okay?" Sora asked, sprinting over with Sonic, Donald, and Goofy right behind.
"He took a rough hit," Amy admitted, glancing at the wound. "He's holding on, but…"
Harry gave a pained grin, breath coming shallow. "Heh. I've had worse."
Goofy tilted his head, eyes falling on the still-intact shades. "Well, least your glasses stayed on."
Harry chuckled, then winced. "…True enough."
Gary's gaze shifted, catching Sora's eye. There was a flicker of hope there, sharp against his usual stoicism. "The way you healed Goofy back there… think you can do the same for Harry?"
Sora froze. His grip on the Keyblade tightened until his knuckles whitened. "…I—I can try."
That same voice stirred inside his chest again, clear as daylight.
"You can do it. Heal him."
Sora exhaled, raising the Keyblade high. "Heal!"
A wave of green light burst forth, wrapping Harry in a cocoon of warmth. His laboured breathing eased, colour returning to his face. Slowly, he sat straighter, wide-eyed.
"…Well I'll be," Harry remarked, flexing his healed arm. "Feels like I just walked out of a spa."
Amy's mouth fell open. "That wasn't medicine. That was—"
"—magic," Donald cut in, puffing his chest out. For once, his voice wasn't scolding. It carried grudging admiration. He turned towards Sora with a half-smile. "Not bad, Sora. You pulled off Cure without even bein' taught."
Sora blinked, startled, then grinned sheepishly. "…Thanks. Guess my heart knew what to do."
Donald crossed his arms. "Don't get cocky. But… we'll go over it later."
Goofy clapped Sora on the back, nearly knocking him forward. "Gawrsh, looks like you two are finally gettin' along!"
Sora and Donald glanced at each other, then both looked away with identical huffs. But the corner of Donald's beak twitched into the tiniest smile, and Sora's grin lingered.
From Goofy's shoulder, Jiminy sprang up, scribbling furiously in his journal. "Note to self: first and second successful Cure—self-taught under battle conditions. Remarkable!"
G stepped forward, his calm gaze cutting through the moment. "Well done team. But Goldman's invitation confirms it—this was never the endgame."
"The Emperor…" Gary echoed, lowering his weapon. "What even is that?"
"The Magician's successor," G answered without hesitation. His tone was measured, deliberate as he explained. "Years ago, I faced the Magician with my partner, Thomas Rogan. We destroyed it, but… it seems Goldman has made something worse. With the Heartless infused, this Emperor could be far more dangerous."
Sora's grip tightened on the Keyblade, resolve deep in his tone. "Then we can't waste time. We got to get to Goldman."
Sonic's eyes burned with the same fire. "Yeah. If he's hiding behind this 'Emperor,' we knock 'em both down."
James and Gary shared a glance, then nodded firmly. "We'll go with them," James said. "The rest of you get this intel back to HQ. If this Emperor's the real deal, the AMS needs to know."
"Agreed," G said. "Harry, Amy, you'll hold here with me. The rest of you—go. And give Goldman hell."
Sonic smirked, cracking his neck, bouncing on his toes. "Oh, don't worry. We're good at that."
With roles decided, the new party gathered—Sora, Sonic, Donald, Goofy, James, and Gary. The Colosseum's ruined gates loomed ahead, the path to Goldman's lair stretching before them.
The battle with Strength was over, but the decisive battle against the Emperor lingered.
Back in Traverse Town - Red Room
[Traverse Town - KH HD I.5 ReMiX plays]
"It started on the ARK," Shadow said, voice low, steady. The lamplight caught in his eyes as he looked past the group, almost seeing another time. "In the library no one ever used."
Yuffie slouched, chin in her hand. "Figures. Books just sit there unless you make them fun. Add some spinny chairs and cool lamps—that's how you get people to care about a library."
Shadow didn't take the bait. His tone stayed even, as if Yuffie hadn't spoken. "Maria loved it there. She would read aloud when the machines were quiet. Stories she swore were older than any science—tales of heroes who carried keys. Keys that could lock… or unlock anything. Even the darkness."
Tails leaned forward, ears perked. "Wait. Maria told you Keyblade stories?"
"To her, they were fairytales," Shadow replied. His gaze lowered, almost soft. "She spoke of a town of endless dawn. Children who fought in groups— 'unions,' she called them. Masks to hide faces, and a soft-voiced creature who guided them. It was a book that claimed to know tomorrow's fate." His eyes narrowed. "Daybreak Town."
Aerith's hands folded a little tighter in her lap. "We've heard fragments of those stories too. Records so old they're barely legible. They speak of a world before ours."
For once, Yuffie didn't grin. Her eyes narrowed in thought. "Yeah… the archives on the old world had scraps."
Leon's arms crossed, his gaze shifting to the far wall. "I heard them as a boy. But they fade when you grow up."
Shadow's eyes slipped to him, then back to the floorboards. "I thought they were just children's stories," he said simply. "I liked them because Maria liked them. Now—" He exhaled once, a small give. "Now I know better."
Aerith's smile was soft and a little sad. "We all thought the Keyblade was gone. No one had seen it since… well. A very long time." She lifted her eyes towards the ceiling, as if remembering something just out of reach. "Then Sora arrived. Maybe the Keyblade wasn't lost. Maybe it was just… taking a nap."
Yuffie snapped her fingers, grinning. "Ha! I said that once. Called it 'legendary beauty sleep.' I still stand by it."
Tails tilted his head, thoughtful, one hand pressed under his chin. "Aerith, you said the Keyblade hadn't been seen in a long time." His ears flicked as he looked at her. "How long are we talking about?"
"About nine years," Aerith answered.
"Pushing ten," Yuffie chimed in.
"Nearly a decade?!" Tails yelped, arms flinging wide.
Leon's voice cut through, steady. "We've been here in Traverse Town ever since."
"Because of the darkness," Tails murmured, piecing it together.
Leon gave a single, heavy nod. "Yeah."
Shadow's eyes narrowed slightly, the words settling in him. "…A decade ago, I was still in stasis."
The shift was immediate. Aerith's breath caught. Yuffie straightened, no trace of her usual levity. Leon's gaze slid towards Shadow, sharp and measured. Only Tails seemed unsurprised, ears perked in quiet curiosity.
"Stasis?" Yuffie asked first, half-incredulous.
"For how long?" Aerith's voice was gentler, cautious.
"Fifty years."
"WHAT?!" Yuffie shot up, arms flying so wide she nearly clipped Aerith in the face.
"Yuffie!" Aerith gasped, leaning back just in time.
"Sorry!" Yuffie winced, then leaned forward, eyes locked on Shadow. "But—fifty years?! Asleep?! How? Why?!" She pulled herself back into her seat, though her finger still jabbed toward him. "There's gotta be some tragic backstory, right?"
Leon shot her a flat look from across the room.
She shrugged, unrepentant. "What? Context matters."
Shadow didn't rise to the joke. His face was steady, but his voice sharpened at the edges, letting the room do the imagining. "The ARK was a research colony. A home in orbit above Mobius. Professor Gerald Robotnik's grand design. He was brilliant…" His pause was precise, heavy. "…but troubled. He built me—Project Shadow. The Ultimate Lifeform. He said it was to cure disease. To save a girl."
"Maria," Aerith said softly.
Shadow inclined his head just enough. "The ARK was the only place she could live. Her condition… was kept at bay there. We walked the same halls every day. We watched the same sunrises curve around the world. Once, she showed me the aurora borealis." His eyes lowered, the memory flickering. "It was beautiful."
"I bet it was," Yuffie said quietly, her usual brightness dimmed.
He let his eyes close for a single moment. When they opened again, they were glass steady. "Then G.U.N. came."
Yuffie blinked. "Who?"
"Guardian Units of Nations," Shadow explained firmly. "A military branch on Mobius. They claimed they were keeping order. In truth… they feared what Gerald created."
Leon's jaw tightened, recognition shadowing his features. "I've heard of them, here and there. Military experiments. Black projects. All hidden in the cracks between worlds."
Tails nodded quickly. "They weren't just scared of Gerald—they were scared of what Project Shadow could do."
"And when bureaucrats are scared, they only want one thing: turn it into a weapon," Leon answered, his voice cut bluntly.
"Ain't that the truth," Yuffie muttered, arms folded.
Aerith's voice softened to a near-whisper, careful not to break the fragile space he'd opened. "Shadow… what happened?"
Shadow's gaze lowered, the words drawn out of him like steel scraped against stone.
"G.U.N. said they feared Gerald's research. Said the ARK was unsafe. But what they wanted was control. The projects, the weapons… me. And when Gerald refused to hand it over, they chose the simplest answer."
He drew in a breath that barely reached his chest. "They stormed the station. Alarms in every corridor. Soldiers firing into rooms they didn't even check. Maria and I—" His jaw shifted. "We ran for the escape bay. The capsule doors were open. I told her to come with me." For a moment, his voice thinned, like it had to cross a chasm. "She… laughed. Like I'd told the best joke she'd ever heard." His eyes flicked down, away from all of them. "And then she shoved me into the pod. Before I could reach her, she pulled the lever."
The room broke around him in silence.
Yuffie's hands had crept up over her mouth without her realizing. Leon stared at the floor; shoulders locked against something he wouldn't let show. Aerith's lashes fluttered once, slowly, like smoothing down a page that threatened to tear. Even Tails, who had heard this story before, rubbed the back of his head, unsettled by having to hear it again.
"Before she sent me crashing down to Mobius… she told me something," Shadow said, breaking the silence at last.
Aerith's voice, when it came, was thinner than candlelight. "What did she say?"
Shadow's eyes unfocused, fixed on a point far beyond the Red Room walls. His answer came out soft, carved precise by memory. "'Give them a chance.'" His voice barely shifted as he repeated it. "'Give Mobius… and humanity… a chance to be happy.'"
The words hung in the air like glass—unshakable, unbroken. Then: "And the soldiers fired."
The silence that followed laid itself across the bedspread, stretching into the corners of the room. No one moved, no one breathed until the stillness allowed it.
Aerith didn't speak, though she felt it—a thread of Maria's gentleness woven into Shadow's resolve, a light he would never admit but could never set down. She kept it unspoken. Some truths were stronger when left untouched.
When Shadow spoke again, it was like laying stones across a dark river. "G.U.N. put me in stasis. And they arrested Gerald. He lost everything. In his grief, he rewired the colony with a failsafe—a death sentence. If the seven Chaos Emeralds were gathered, the ARK would fall from orbit. He wanted the world to feel the same loss he carried."
Yuffie lowered her hands, her voice quiet now. "That's… awful."
Tails exhaled, stepping forward to bridge the weight of it. "Yeah. And decades later—five, maybe six years ago—Eggman found the ARK. Found Shadow. And… well." He spread his hands helplessly. "We had a very long day."
Shadow gave the faintest of nods. "That's putting it lightly."
Yuffie leaned forward like she was front row at a play, eyes wide. "Okay, paint it for me. And don't skip the part where you blew up the moon."
"I didn't blow up the moon," Shadow said flatly, fixing her with a look.
Yuffie's jaw dropped. "Wait—the moon was blown up?! I was only joking about that!"
"No joke," Tails cut in quickly, his twin tails twitching. "Eggman blasted half of it with the Eclipse Cannon. Shadow… helped him at first."
"Because of Maria," Aerith said, not accusing—only understanding.
Shadow didn't flinch. "I woke up angry. Revenge is loud. It feels like purpose when you've got nothing left to lose." His gaze angled toward the window, far-off. "So yes. I joined Eggman. I helped him gather the Chaos Emeralds. I wore a stranger's name like armour to fool the world."
"Sonic," Leon said quietly, piecing it together.
"They mistook him for me," Shadow confirmed with a single nod. "It worked. G.U.N. chased him, locked him in prison."
Tails' ears dipped, then sprang upright again like a reset spring. "He was furious about that," he said with a crooked smile. "A truck tried to catch him, then we had to bust him out. Y'know. Normal Tuesday back home…"
Yuffie blinked. "A truck… tried to catch him?"
"It was persistent," Tails said gravely.
Leon gave up on his usual reserve long enough to press two fingers to his temple. "I can't believe I'm sitting here hearing this. A truck. Chasing a hedgehog."
"
"Anyway," Tails hurried on. "We chased Eggman all the way to the ARK. He had six Chaos Emeralds. The fake one I made—it was supposed to override the Eclipse Cannon and fool him into thinking he had the seventh."
Aerith’s eyes softened, impressed. "And did your gambit succeed?"
"Not a chance," Tails sighed, his tails dropping in disappointment. "Eggman was a dozen steps ahead. He saw right through the fake."
"Then what did he do to Sonic?" Yuffie demanded, leaning forward and gripping her knees.
"He didn't just see through it. He trapped Sonic in a stasis tube… and ejected the pod into deep space. It was rigged to detonate."
Yuffie’s eyes went wide. "Explode? As in, go kaboom?!"
Before Tails could answer, Shadow’s voice cut through. "Sonic used it."
Yuffie’s head snapped towards him. "Used what?"
"The fake emerald," Shadow stated. "He tapped its energy to perform Chaos Control. He shouldn't have been able to. But he did."
Leon's brows furrowed, the look in his eyes matching Yuffie's earlier disbelief. "I know Sonic makes the impossible possible, but how is that—"
Tails cut in, lifting his hands helplessly. "I don't know! The math said the energy wasn't enough. But like I said, Sonic believes; he makes it happen."
"There is more to it than just believing," Shadow interjected, his gaze steady. "There is faint Chaos energy in your creation, Tails. Just enough to fool machines… and perhaps, in Sonic's hands, enough to fool reality itself. Even I've mistaken it for the real thing."
"So that’s it," Yuffie breathed, tapping her fist against her thigh. "The Blue Blur’s sheer willpower overrides physics." She turned back to Shadow. "So, what happened next?"
"After that, once the real Emerald was in place, Eggman triggered Gerald’s failsafe—and pushed into the ARK’s core," Shadow explained firmly, his expression grim.
"Awakening the Biolizard!" Tails exclaimed, jumping in, his eyes wide with renewed urgency.
"The Biolizard?" Leon echoed, the name heavy on his tongue, already sounding like a threat.
Shadow inclined his head. "Gerald's first draft of the Ultimate Lifeform. The prototype. It was meant to be perfect, but it was flawed—tortured by its own existence." He let silence consume it for a moment. Then he continued: "Biolizard was locked away in stasis deep in the ARK. But Gerald planted a safeguard: should the Eclipse Cannon core be activated or intruded upon, the ARK would awaken its guardian. He considered Biolizard the insurance policy."
Tails took a breath. "When we breached the core, we triggered it. It emerged, violent and raw—generation one of Shadow's own line, twisted and enraged. It fought like a beast, not a creation."
Shadow's voice tightened. "Biolizard couldn't be reasoned with. Its programming overrode everything. It sought only survival—and to ensure Gerald's plan went through."
Aerith's voice was hushed. "When you faced it … what happened?"
Shadow's eyes drifted. "I confronted it. I damaged the life support matrix—cut the tubes feeding it. In desperation, it used Chaos Control to teleport itself outside the core—and then fused with the ARK itself, becoming the Final Hazard."
Leon murmured, "So the 'guardian' became the threat … merged with the weapon."
"Exactly," Shadow said. "When it became Final Hazard, it controlled the ARK's trajectory: a living weapon. Sonic and I—supercharged—had to face it together. We fought it, tore it apart, and used Chaos Control to stop the ARK from crashing."
Tails nodded, head low. "I remember… We barely made it. You fell with the ARK, presumed lost."
Shadow's eyes flickered. "Presumed. But I survived."
"So what, you just… fell? To Mobius?" Yuffie asked carefully.
"Yes," Shadow confirmed. He didn't elaborate, but the silence carried it: the burn of atmosphere turning to fire, the sky too big and endless, the feeling of becoming small, then nothing—until much later, waking with a name that fit him better.
Leon nodded once, like a judge who had heard enough to render a verdict and didn't need to say it aloud. "And you kept Maria's promise, even after the fall?"
"For a while," Shadow said. His arms folded again, automatic. "But the Chaos Emeralds don't stay fenced in. And neither does the darkness. Maria asked me to give Mobius a chance. So I did. I'm still doing it, even if the world I knew is gone."
The room seemed to exhale as one. Some stories reached out of themselves and closed your mouth for you.
Yuffie broke the hush with perfect timing. "Okay, let me bullet-point this," she said, ticking off fingers. "Secret space lab. Girl with a heart big enough to make my chest hurt. Government jerks. Sonic chased by a killer truck. Revenge arc. Moon cannon. Gross space lizard. Shiny super forms. Planet saved. Tragic fall. Comeback tour. Did I miss anything?"
"Amnesia," Shadow said flatly.
"Of course there's memory loss." Yuffie groaned, shaking her head. "Figures."
"But we won't dive into it," Shadow answered, stoic as ever.
"Phew." Yuffie swiped mock sweat from her forehead. "Can't cram more tragic backstory into one night, thanks."
Shadow only huffed.
Aerith laid a hand to her heart. Her voice was quiet, unadorned. "Thank you," she said to Shadow. "For telling us. For choosing her wish."
"It was what she wanted," Shadow replied. His eyes met hers for a moment before sliding away.
Tails cleared his throat. "Uh… speaking of wishes and worlds and… not being squashed—there's something we forgot to tell Sora."
Leon stiffened imperceptibly. Aerith blinked. Yuffie smacked her forehead. "Oh, right. The thing about… yeah."
"Keyholes," Shadow said, beating them to it. His voice was almost a growl. "You didn't tell him, did you?"
Aerith winced. "We were trying not to overwhelm him."
Leon grimaced like someone had handed him a dented blade. "And then a dozen other fires needed putting out."
"We figured he'd stumble on one," Yuffie offered, sheepish. "Keyblade, Keyholes—kind of a package deal. They find you."
"Hope," Shadow said flatly, "is not a plan, Yuffie."
Tails lifted both hands. "We'll fix it. As soon as he's back, we walk him through everything. What a Keyhole is. How it connects to a world's heart. Why the Heartless swarm toward it. How to seal it."
Aerith nodded quickly. "We'll make sure he understands. Gently."
"Not too gently," Shadow said. "The universe doesn't soften its blows. He needs to be ready."
"Ready and terrified isn't a good combo," Yuffie muttered. "Trust me. I've seen rookie eyes. It's like watching a chocobo discover stairs."
Leon's shoulders eased by a careful fraction. "We'll brief him. Educate him. He's raw, but he learns fast."
"I'll speak to him as well," Shadow added. "I want to know why the Keyblade chose him. I need to know if he's worthy."
"Go easy," Aerith urged, gentle but firm. "He can't grow if you crush him."
Shadow's mouth tilted, almost a smirk. "I don't crush. I pressure. There's a difference."
"Debatable," Yuffie shot back.
Aerith studied Shadow a beat longer, then shifted the air with a calm, practiced ease. "You're restless," she said. "And you've been carrying that weight too long. How about a walk-through town?"
Shadow's eyes narrowed. "A tour."
"Traverse Town's not pretty, but it's sturdy," Aerith said kindly. "Walk with me. Reflect. We'll clear out a few Heartless while we're out. Nothing major. Just enough to let the steam out."
"What am I?" Shadow deadpanned. "Your clean-up crew?"
"For tonight? Yes," Aerith said simply, her chin lifted, her light unwavering.
A silence. The kind that meant the scales inside Shadow tilted—not from her words, but from the way she said them.
He sighed through his nose, resigned. "Fine."
Leon glanced towards the door. "The Waterways," he suggested. "No crowds. Solid footing. If you feel like sparring…"
Shadow's smirk landed properly this time, thin and dangerous. "You think you can keep up?"
Leon didn't blink. "I think you'll find out."
"Very well." Shadow's voice was firm; his stare locked on the man.
"Oh, this I gotta see," Yuffie said, bright as fireworks. "Should we sell tickets?"
Tails laughed, tension easing. "While you two measure up," he said delicately, "I could use a hand getting my workshop in order." He looked at Yuffie. "Feel like helping?"
Yuffie bounced to her feet. "Say no more, Tails. I am a DIY ninja. I slice tape. I fold cardboard. I label like a maniac."
"Perfect," Tails said, already sketching layouts in his head. "We'll rig a comms corner too. If Sora checks in, I want a direct line."
Aerith stood, smoothing her skirt. "Then it's settled. Shadow's with me for Heartless clean-up, then we will meet Leon at the Waterways."
Leon gave Yuffie a look. "And you. Behave."
"Rude that you think I wouldn't—okay, fair," Yuffie conceded with a grin.
Shadow huffed, but when he turned back to Aerith, she was smiling at him. Warm. Unyielding.
"She has a light that never dims," he thought. "Just like Maria."
Chapter 14: Città Morta di Venezia (House of the Dead 2) Part 6: The Emperor
Summary:
The final part of the Venice Arc. All roads lead to Goldman and his creation, the Emperor, as Sora and Sonic face the storm atop the tower—while in Traverse Town, Shadow and Aerith share a quiet, heartfelt conversation amid the cleanup of Heartless in the Second District.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Dark clouds trailed across the sky of Venice, threatening rain but never giving. Salt from the canals mingled with old rust and damp. Every footstep echoed twice down the narrow street, as if the city itself were listening.
Sora strode ahead, Kingdom Key firm in his grip. Sonic paced beside him; Donald and Goofy flanked them—staff aglow, shield poised. Behind, James and Gary moved in sync, Light Guns ready, eyes combing the shadows.
"Keep your eyes peeled," James murmured. "Goldman's place isn't far." He nodded towards a tall tower etched against the unsettled clouds.
Sonic rubbed the bottom of his nose with a smug little grin. "Yeah? 'Not far' always feels farther when it's gloomy."
"Gawrsh… somethin's off," Goofy muttered, tightening his stance.
"Yeah, it's too quiet," Donald said, slowing his steps, staff clenched.
Suddenly, a wet groan rolled ahead. Silhouettes stirred from oozing pools of darkness and pulled themselves upright.
"We got company," Sonic said, fists lifting.
The shapes set, then hardened—grotesque hybrids. The Johnny variants shuffled first: gaunt, long-limbed, crude axes in hand, flesh patched in jagged seams. The Max variants erupted after, its heavy, muscle-packed frames brandishing chainsaw-bar blades, darkness clinging to their outlines like wet cloth. Each chest burned with the Heartless sigil.
"More chainsaws?!" Donald yelped. "What is it with the chainsaws?!"
"They're getting worse," Sora said, grip tightening.
"And dangerous!" Goofy added, shield at the ready.
"Disarm if you can—or dodge first," James snapped, experience taking over.
"Don't have to tell me twice." Sonic blurred forward, a line of light peeling off his heels. He slipped between Johnny's axe arcs and whipped into a Flame Spin Dash that seared the air. Black ichor spattered as the Johnny reeled.
Sora rushed in behind him. The Keyblade rang sharp against dark flesh and metal. He drove at a Max's chainsaw arm, twisting for leverage—if he could wrench it free, the hybrid would fold. The Max roared, scything the chain-bar wide. Sora rolled beneath the swing and slid back out of range; oil and metal stung the air.
"Guys, a little help?!" he called, the chainsaw snarling behind him.
Gary and James fired on the move—clean, bright rounds of light chewing into the Max that had peeled off after Sora. It staggered, and Sonic slammed a homing attack head-on. The creature burst into shadow and green sludge. Sonic landed, kicked a Johnny away, and barked, "Back off, creep!"
Donald lifted his staff. "Fire!" A lance of flame stitched across a Johnny's torso, sending heat and smoke curling upward. Sonic revved and pinballed through it, ricocheting off a wall and uncurling into a heel-kick that shattered the foe to dark particles.
Close by, another Johnny swung down at Goofy. Steel hit steel—sparks leapt. Goofy grunted, pivoted, and flipped his shield overhand, knocking the creature sideways into a railing. Sora darted through and split it with a single slash; it collapsed into dark goo.
"Thanks, pal!" Goofy called.
"No prob—WOAH!" Sora ducked as a new Max lunged, chainsaw screaming. He bolted. "Anybody want to take this guy?!"
"On it!" James said. He and Gary raked the Max as they advanced—light rounds cracking joints, severing dark tendrils. The chainsaws sputtered, oil leaked. Flames licked its frame.
"This is it!" Sora shouted, turning and vaulting high as he drove the Keyblade into the exposed shoulder. Something gave. The Max's frame seized, then collapsed in a haze of shadow-mist and oozing green.
"These guys are tough," Sora panted, sweat beading his forehead. He set his stance. "But I'm not scared—bring it on!"
A wounded Johnny moved forward. It swung; Sora stepped in, blocked, and shoved back. One clean downward strike—sinew parted. The Johnny sagged. Sonic dropped from above and split the remnant with a Spin Attack; the body blew apart into darkness and goo.
The hedgehog touched down lightly, exhaled, swagger returning. "One down, one to go." He pointed at the last Max lunging out of an alley.
"I got this!" Donald declared, bracing. "Fire!" The fireball erupted and smashed the chainsaw's flat but guttered away. "WAK! This one's tough!"
James and Gary raised their guns—but Goofy's charging steps thundered on the cobbles.
"Leave it to me, fellas!" he called.
As he closed, Goofy baited the swing, shield high. The Max bit—chainsaw wide. Seeing his opening, the King's Captain slammed straight into its core, buckling it back. Sonic streaked in and drilled the arm joint; the limb going limp.
"All yours, Sora," Gary said, sight still trained.
"See ya!" Sora shouted, dashing in. The Keyblade swung down and hummed through the broken joint. The Max groaned and folded, chest splitting; its sigil burned out like a dying star as it collapsed and broke apart.
Silence fell across the street once again. Shadows unspooled into smoky motes and drifted up into the low, heavy clouds.
Sora steadied his breath. "We did it." He wiped sweat from his brow with the back of his glove. "Although...that was a tough fight."
Donald lowered his staff. "That was… close." He firmed his stance. "But we showed 'em."
Goofy rolled his shoulders. "Hyuck… I hate those guys. But we made a clean sweep."
Sonic sauntered over, smirk tugging, as he gazed towards Sora. "Nice work, buddy. You're catching up."
"I am?"
"Call it character growth." Sonic planted a hand on his hip, meeting the boy's eyes. "You've come a long way since we first met."
Sora's smile came easy. The memory of their rocky start flashed—a misunderstanding, a fireball from Leon, a reset in the Red Room. The improvement felt good, and being seen felt better.
James and Gary approached, light guns down but ready. James nodded. "Nicely handled. But… expect bigger problems ahead."
"The Emperor…" Sora murmured, frown carving in.
"Afraid so," Gary said. He glanced down the street. The tower's silhouette loomed—silent, heavy. "The hard part starts now."
Sora swallowed as his pulse finally eased. "Then let's move."
"Yeah, yeah—we—" Sonic began. He stopped mid-step, ears twitching. A flicker pulsed at the edge of a side alley. He tilted his head, squinting. "…Huh."
"What is it?" Sora asked, lifting the Keyblade a little.
Sonic peered into the narrow cut of darkness—broken plaster, rusted pipes, water winking below. Something gleamed inside: a steady red-gold pulse, faint, and patient, like it was calling.
"Something shiny is down there," he said, glancing back with a lopsided grin.
"Shiny? This place is a death trap, not a souvenir shop!" Donald groused.
Goofy leaned to take a closer look. "Gawrsh, Sonic's right… somethin' is glintin' down that alley."
James raised his weapon again. "Could be a lure. Or a trap."
"It could also be treasure," Sonic countered, already stepping in, bracelet light rippling over wet stone. "Come on, what's the worst that could happen?"
Gary sighed through his nose. "You had to say it."
"If something happens, I'm blaming you!" Donald huffed.
"Live a little, Donnie."
Donald grumbled, but he and the team followed. Weapons came up again. Puddles slapped underfoot; the alley air felt tighter, colder. Salt and old iron pressed close.
Halfway in, Sonic knelt beside a half-buried crate under a fallen arch. Rust flaked under his glove. On the lid: a small chest, ornate, faintly humming—red-gold and patient.
"Would ya look at that…" Goofy murmured.
Sonic brushed away the grime. "Jackpot." He looked back, eyes bright. "Hey, Sora—think your Keyblade can pop this?"
Sora's tension eased into curiosity. He smiled. "Let's find out."
The hedgehog stepped aside to give Sora room as he approached. The teen raised his Keyblade just as the drizzle began to fall—soft, cold drops pattering against cobblestone, skin, and steel. The little chest shimmered beneath the moisture, its brass trim catching the Keyblade's glow.
Sora tapped the lid twice. A dull click answered, followed by a pulse of light that rippled through the seams. With a hiss, the top eased open.
Inside lay a shard the colour of sea-green fire.
Its glow painted the alley walls in shifting shades of emerald. Tiny motes drifted off the surface like dust in harsh sunlight.
Sonic's eyes widened. "Well, would ya look at that…" He leaned closer, gloved hand hovering over the light. "Another shard."
Donald tilted his head, feathers dripping from the rain. "Another?" he echoed before he could stop himself.
Sonic grinned and lifted the gem, its glow playing across his muzzle. "You know—another shard of the Master Emerald, Donnie boy."
"Sonic…" Donald mumbled, tone low as his eyes darted toward the AMS agents.
"Oh." Sonic's expression froze, mouth forming a perfect O. "Idiot. World Order!" his brain screamed. "Uh—I mean—uh…"
Sora's eyes snapped to him. Goofy's followed. James and Gary just stared, half-suspicious, half-bewildered.
Goofy broke first. "Hyuck… uh, what Sonic means is—uh, another pretty rock, right?" he said, shifting awkwardly.
"Right!" Sora blurted, nodding so fast his hair flung rainwater. "Pretty rock! Totally normal thing to find in haunted Venice!"
James arched a brow suspiciously. "Pretty rock, huh?"
Gary smirked, resting his light gun against his thigh. "I've seen a lot of minerals, kid. None of them hum like that one." His gaze slid to Sonic. "So… tell us more about your 'pretty rock.'"
Sonic cleared his throat, lowering the shard so the light dimmed between his gloved fingers. "Let's just say it's important. Big-time energy source. Keeps things running, keeps balance… all that jazz."
"All that jazz, huh." Gary folded his arms. "Sounds like something worth protecting."
"Yeah, you could say that." Sonic's grin tilted sideways—playful, measured. "I'd tell you the full story, but…" He shot a glance at Donald. "Some folks prefer me keep it quiet."
"WAK! I never said anything!" Donald squawked, flustered, thrashing his arms at the hedgehog in annoyance.
James chuckled, holstering his weapon. "Relax, Donald. We've seen stranger things. Classified or not, we get it."
Sonic's grin sharpened. "Appreciate it, agents." The shard vanished from his hand in a quick flash, tucked away in that impossible space between worlds.
Gary blinked, startled. "Okay… that was something." He stared at Sonic's empty hand. "Magic?"
"An illusion?" James added in confusion.
"Sure, let's roll with that," Sonic said, shrugging. He wasn't about to explain how he could pocket objects. Some things were easier left to mystery—the ultimate hedgehog party trick.
Donald muttered under his breath. "Quackin' blue show-off…"
"Language, Donnie." Sonic wagged a finger at him, grinning.
Before Donald could retort, thunder rolled across the sky—deep and distant, as if the world itself agreed. The rain thickened, drumming harder against the cobblestones and rooftops, blurring the edges of the alley in a sheet of wet silver.
"Looks like a storm's coming," Goofy said, glancing upward as rain beaded on his face. "And not just the Goldman kind."
"We'd better move," Sora nodded, hair plastered with rain. His jacket began to cling, the chill setting in.
Gary checked his light-gun charge, then looked to the others. "Let's go before the next wave of nightmares catches up."
"Right. Goldman's waiting," James said, adjusting his wet collar.
They filed back onto the main street, the sky darker now—thunder stalking their steps as the downpour thickened. Behind them, the chest gave one last flicker of green light before dissolving into particles that drifted upward, vanishing into the clouds.
The rain eased into a steady drizzle, but the heroes were already damp through, their breath misting in the cooling air. Above them, the sky hung low—a matte dome of iron-grey pressing down on the drowned city. The tang of salt and canal water had faded, replaced by the sharp scent of rain-soaked concrete, old ozone, and faint oil rising from the streets. It smelled like a storm that had lingered too long.
The tower of Goldman's headquarters loomed closer—an obsidian monolith of glass and steel. Sonic had seen plenty of tower blocks in Station Square, but none that felt this cold. The structure seemed to drink in light instead of reflecting it; every mirrored surface was a dead eye. No glow came from its windows, no hum of life from within. The façade was dark, seamless, and silent—like something built to watch the world, not live in it. Perfect for this kind of place if you were into that sort of thing.
The street before the tower was utterly dead. No Heartless, no creatures—only the slow drip of rain from sagging eaves and the distant groan of metal shifting somewhere. Every footstep slapped too loud against the slick, wet cobblestone.
They came to a stop at the base of the structure, shoes—and Donald's webbed feet—squelching in the shallow puddles. Sora lifted his Keyblade, its light faint and wavering in the drizzle. Donald's staff buzzed with a low hum of static magic, while Goofy held his shield just below his chin, ready for anything. James and Gary flanked them, rain coursing down their jackets, light guns half-lowered but never relaxed. Sonic stood a pace ahead, droplets running off his quills, fur plastered flat by the rain, every muscle coiled tight.
He broke the silence first, voice low but still carrying that bite. "It's too quiet. Way too quiet." He glanced up at the towering monolith, rubbing the back of one soaked ear. "So… what do you think? Goldman compensating for something with this thing, or what?"
The others groaned in near-perfect unison. "Sonic…"
"What?" he protested, throwing up his gloved hands. "I'm just sayin'—you build a giant evil skyscraper in zombie Venice; you're definitely trying to prove something."
Donald squawked, feathers ruffled. "Can it, wise guy! This place gives me the creeps!"
Rainwater dripped from Goofy's nose as he stared up at the dark facade towering above them. "Gawrsh… I don't like standin' outside somethin' that big and empty."
They crept closer. The main entrance loomed ahead—tall glass doors, mirrored and unmarked. No guards or monsters. Just that eerie, prickling sense that the building itself was watching.
Sora stepped up first, palm pressing to the cold glass. His reflection warped and fractured in the curve of the pane. He took a slow breath. "That's our cue."
Right on time, a low hum rippled through the air. The doors shivered, then slid open with a whisper—smooth, graceful, far too polite for a place like this.
Donald jumped back. "WAK!" he raised his staff. "The doors just opened! That' suspicious!"
"They're automated," James said, nodding towards a small sensor light on the side panel.
Donald blinked. "Oh…" He lowered his weapon and straightened his hat, feigning calm. "Right. I knew that."
Gary smirked. "Sure you did."
Sonic chuckled under his breath. Goofy's laugh followed, warm and nervous. The moment of shared humour cut through the tension like a thin beam of light.
"Alright," Sora said, tightening his grip on the Keyblade. "Let's go."
The group stepped through the sliding doors together.
Inside waited a cavernous lobby. The floor was black marble, polished so clean it mirrored every droplet of rain clinging to their clothes, hair, and skin. Each step left faint, wet prints that faded almost as soon as they formed. Steel columns rose like ribs into the dark, their tops swallowed by dim, sterile light. A hush pressed over the space—thick and artificial, as if the air itself had been drained of sound.
Somewhere deep in the shadows, water dripped. The lighting was harsh white but low, pooling more than it illuminated. Hallways branched off into nothingness, and along the walls, surveillance cameras rotated in silence—their lenses catching the light like watchful eyes.
Gary clicked the safety on his gun. "Cameras… we're exposed."
"Stay sharp," James warned, raising his Light Gun. "He could be watching us every step."
Sora's boots squeaked faintly against the marble as he walked. "So we just… walk straight through?"
Sonic gave a half-grin, brushing water from his quills. "You bet. Let's see how welcoming this place really is."
At the end of the lobby stood an elevator bank—four sleek pods sealed tight, their panels glowing a faint, sterile blue. The floor indicator blinked steadily: G → 50. Fifty floors to the top.
Donald exhaled, feathers slick and drooping. "Fifty stories of dread. Great."
"We ride up—and we stick together," Sora said firmly, droplets still dripping from the ends of his hair.
Donald deadpanned, "No… really? I thought we'd take turns." He sighed loudly, shaking water from his feathers. "Honestly…"
Sora shot Donald a look. The duck smirked right back—defiant but clearly exhausted.
Goofy dropped his shield for a moment and wrung out his hat with a wet squelch, grimacing at the drip that followed. He glanced over to Sonic, who just lifted his gloved hands in a half-shrug, a crooked grin tugging at his face as if to say, "What can you do?"
Sora blinked and looked around. "Hey, wait… where's Jiminy? I thought he'd pop up by now."
Sonic scratched behind one ear, flicking away a bead of rain. "Pretty sure he stayed back with G and the others. Can't blame him."
"Gawrsh, good idea," Goofy said, plopping the soggy hat back on his head with a wet smack. He lifted his shield again and straightened. "Better safe with those guys anyhow."
Donald groaned loudly. "Yeah, yeah… lucky him. At least he's not soaked!"
"True…" Sonic admitted with a shrug. "Kinda hard to be cool when your shoes sound like sponges."
Before anyone could answer, the elevator call button blinked once, followed by a soft electronic ping that cut through their chatter.
James gave them a pointed look. "If you're all done complaining—press the button already."
Sora stepped up and pressed the button. The elevator answered with a soft chime—oddly gentle, almost human. The doors slid open with a whisper.
"Let's go," Sonic said, stepping inside first, water still dripping from his gloves and quills, pattering softly onto the floor.
One by one, the others followed. Soaked. Silent. The doors slid shut behind them with a clean snap that echoed too loud in the confined pod. The sound seemed to seal them in.
The elevator interior was narrow—barely enough room for the group to stand shoulder to shoulder. White panels pressed close overhead, their fluorescent strips humming a cold, artificial light. The floor trembled faintly underfoot. The walls gleamed like mirrors, showing blurred reflections of faces, weapons, breath—and for a heartbeat, something else. A shape behind Gary's shoulder. It vanished when he turned.
Donald cleared his throat, the noise sharp in the still air. "Great. No music either…"
"I can hum us a tune," Goofy suggested kindly.
"No!" Donald responded sharply.
Sora's gaze moved to the control panel. Buttons climbed from G to fifty, a single one labelled TOP / ROOF glowing faintly at the end. He pressed it. The elevator lurched, and the hum deepened to a low, mechanical growl.
The group steadied themselves as the pod began its ascent. Every vibration in the steel frame felt amplified, every drop of water that slid from them sounded too loud.
Sonic's voice broke the quiet. "Listen… do you hear that?"
A faint noise crept through the walls—like metal cables straining, or steel bending under invisible weight. Beneath it, something softer: a whisper, just out of reach, curling under the hum.
James angled his head, listening. "Drift noise… tension in the frame," he said, voice low. "Something's moving beyond the walls."
Gary said nothing, his eyes locked on the glowing panel as the numbers crept upward. 10… 20… 30… Each gap felt longer than the last.
The lights flickered once. For a split second, the panel went blank: — — —. The hum stuttered. Sonic's bracelet glowed faintly, like a heartbeat reacting to the pressure.
Donald sucked in a breath. "Did the lights just flicker?"
Goofy's eyes darted to the corner. "I swear somethin' just leaned over us…"
Sora's grip tightened on his Keyblade, knuckles white under his glove. "Hold steady. Don't look away."
The indicator crawled upward: 40 → 45 → 48 → 50 → TOP/ROOF. The hum deepened into a throbbing roar, the air pressing heavy against their skin.
Then, with a hollow thud, the pod jerked—like hitting turbulence in the sky.
A voice crackled through the speakers, distant and distorted, more static than sound:
"Welcome."
The building seemed to groan in response.
The elevator sighed, brakes whining as it slowed. The air went still. Then—hiss—the doors slid open.
They had arrived at the top.
The rain had stopped, but the air was still soaked—dense and metallic, humming with static. Sora's arms prickled with goosebumps, a mix of damp chill and the rising tension of what was about to unfold.
Close to him, the others felt it too: that crawling, invisible charge that ran up their spines as they stepped out of the elevator onto the rooftop. Wind slid across the open platform—thin, restless, cutting through their wet clothes.
The roof stretched wide and bare, a slab of steel bordered by shattered glass and crooked floodlights that buzzed faintly, fighting the dark. Beyond the railing, Venice sprawled below like a drowned kingdom—silent, half-sunken, swallowed by shadow and one man's ambition.
Then a voice, hollow and calm, carried across the roof.
"At last you've come… friends."
They turned in unison.
Caleb Goldman stood near the edge, framed by the dying light. His suit clung damp to his frame. The glass lenses of his spectacles caught the floodlight's static glare, blanking out his eyes. His expression was smooth—surgically emotionless.
"The door of fate shall open," he said, tone flat but chillingly certain.
Donald shuddered, feathers trembling. "He gives me the creeps…"
"He sure does, Donald," Goofy murmured, voice quivering but shield held firm.
Sonic and Sora exchanged a silent nod—understanding, unspoken—then turned back to face the man who had poisoned this world with darkness.
James and Gary raised their Light Guns in practiced unison.
"Caleb Goldman!" Gary barked. "You're done running experiments. Hands where we can see them."
Sora stepped forward, the Kingdom Key gleaming under the bright lights. "You don't have to keep doing this! Whatever you're trying to fix—it's only feeding more darkness!"
Sonic's frame crackled faintly, arcs of blue static dancing through the damp air. "You've crossed a line, Goldman. Whatever you think you're saving—it's long gone."
Goldman didn't flinch. His head tilted slightly, like a machine registering movement. When he spoke, his voice sounded almost automated—drained of breath, drained of mercy and emotion.
"I'm fully aware of what I'm doing, can't you see." He began to pace, each footfall clicking wet against the rooftop. "Man committed a sin—disturbing the life cycle of nature." He stopped, gaze slicing towards Sora, the floodlight flashing across his lenses. "The original sin… that man is responsible for." He stepped closer, shoes sloshing in the shallow water pooled on the roof. "To protect the life cycle, I have created a being to rule over mankind."
Sonic's jaw tightened. "Guy's cracked." His fists clenched, bracelet pulsing red-hot energy.
Sora frowned, trying to follow the twisted logic. "You built the Emperor to protect life… by destroying it?"
Donald's feathers puffed, staff raised higher. "WAK! That's nuts!"
James steadied his aim. "You're not a god, Goldman. You're just another man who thinks he can rewrite nature."
Goldman's faint smile didn't reach his eyes. "Silence." He raised one pale hand toward the clouds. "This is the final battle." The air around him shimmered—electric veins crawling upward through the stormy sky. "Show yourself," he intoned, "our new ruler… the Emperor."
The heavens split open.
A shriek tore through the clouds as a vortex of blinding light spiralled downward. Wind slammed across the rooftop, forcing the group to brace themselves. Out of the maelstrom descended a colossal, translucent figure—half metal, half spirit, its surface rippling like molten liquid. Horns curled from its crown. Around it, six orbs rotated slowly, each radiating its own rhythm of colour and sound—like a broken choir humming one terrible note.
Sora felt it before he fully saw it—the weight of the creature pressing on his chest, bending the air.
Donald stumbled back a step. "Th-that thing ain't natural!"
Sonic's voice was steady but edged. "Guess that's our cue." Lightning flashed across his quills. "Alright, Frankenstein—let's dance."
Donald raised his staff, magic glowing at the tip. "We'll show ya!"
"You ain't ruling us!" Goofy bellowed, shield raised.
James and Gary advanced, aiming at the creature, their voices cutting through the wind.
"Goldman!" James shouted. "The AMS is shutting you down—for good!"
Gary followed, his words sharp as thunder. "For the lives lost at Curien Mansion—and for everyone you ruined here… this ends today!"
Goldman's hand dropped slowly to his side. His lenses caught the stormlight once more.
"So be it."
Rain drops fell again—cold, sharp needles slicing through the floodlights as the Emperor's arms lifted. Energy pulsed outward in rings, warping the metal beneath their feet.
The heroes braced as wind roared across the roof, whirling debris around them like knives.
Sora drew in a breath, heart hammering. His voice cut through the chaos. "We aren't scared. We will stop you!"
The Emperor's response wasn't sound—it was vibration, a pulse that rattled glass and bone alike.
The rooftop shuddered under their feet. The storm screamed.
And then, in one blinding flash, the battle began.
The Emperor
Battle Music: Theme of The Emperor - House of the Dead 2 [Arcade Mode]
With a howl of wind, the battle began. The Emperor's orbiting spheres flew outward like missiles.
WHOOSH—CRACK!
Sora dove into a dodge roll, narrowly evading an orb that smashed into the roof where he'd stood.
THUD!
Another orb barrelled towards Sonic, but the hedgehog was already a blur. He dashed aside in a streak of colour, leapt high, and homed in on one of the circling orbs with a Spin Attack. His strike connected, shattering the projectile into shards of light.
Donald raised Morning Star and retaliated with a burst of fire magic. "Fire!" he quacked. A fireball arced upward and exploded against the Emperor's flank, briefly illuminating the creature against the storm-grey sky.
Goofy braced himself at the centre of the rooftop, using his Stout Shield to block an incoming orb with a resounding clang.
Meanwhile, James and Gary had found cover behind a vent structure, squeezing off shots from their Light Guns. They peppered the Emperor's central core, but each round was deflected at the last second by one of the whirling protector orbs.
"Keep pressure on those orbs! Don't let up!" James shouted over the gale. The team's coordinated assault dazzled—bursts of flame, bullets, and Keyblade strikes all hammering the Emperor.
Yet the humanoid fiend merely hissed, eyes blazing. With a sweeping gesture of its hand, the Emperor sent its orbiters spinning faster. The spheres began intercepting attacks mid-air, moving almost with a will of their own. Each orb anticipated their strikes uncannily, parrying as if guided by telekinetic insight.
Donald scowled. "This isn't working—WAK!" His cry turned into a scream as one orb suddenly feinted behind him and slammed into his back. The royal mage was knocked off his webbed feet; his staff clattered away as he hit the rooftop hard, stars circling his head.
"Donald!" Sora shouted, eyes wide. Without hesitation the Keyblade Wielder broke from the front line and sprinted toward his fallen friend. Goofy moved beside him, thrusting his shield up to deflect a follow-up orb.
KLONG!
Goofy absorbed the blow, the impact driving him to one knee, numbness crawling up his arm. Sora skidded beside Donald, panic in his voice. The duck was dazed, groaning incoherently.
"Come on, Donald! You gotta get up!"
The mage only mumbled gibberish.
Watching from a safe distance, Goldman's triumphant laughter echoed through the storm.
"I see the duck mage is no match for the might of my Emperor!" he sneered, arms folded with mechanical satisfaction. "Behold true power—and despair!"
Sora grit his teeth, tuning out the taunts. He touched Donald's shoulder gently—stars still spinning above the duck's head. "Hang on, Donald. I've got you."
Raising the Kingdom Key skyward, Sora summoned the warm energy of his heart. "Heal!"
A soothing green aura cascaded down. The Cure spell's magic washed over Donald in a gentle rain of light. The mage's eyes fluttered open as the healing power took effect. He inhaled sharply, strength returning to his limbs.
"Good work, Sora!" Sonic called, dodging another orb. "Rise and shine, Donnie!"
Donald sat up straight, rubbing his head. "Aw, phooey… that one smarts." He looked up and managed a grateful grin at Sora. Even though they'd been butting heads, he knew the kid cared. As he stood, his eyes widened. "Thanks, I—LOOK OUT!"
Behind Sora, one of the Emperor's orbs came whizzing in, aiming to take out healer and patient in one blow.
"Ahh!" Sora shouted, raising his Keyblade to protect himself.
But in the nick of time, Goofy lunged forward with a "Hyuck!" planting himself between his friends and the oncoming projectile. The orb slammed into his raised shield, driving him back—shoes squealing on the wet roof—but he held firm. With an almighty heave, Goofy countered, ricocheting the orb back. The deflected sphere struck the Emperor's shoulder, eliciting a shrill metallic screech.
"Gawrsh, that kinda worked!" Goofy exclaimed in surprise.
"Excellent move!" Gary shouted—then paused as his Light Gun clicked empty. "Huh?"
"RELOAD!" Sonic barked, zipping past and kicking another orb away towards the enemy. It ricocheted straight into the Emperor, earning another shrill, face-scrunching screech.
Gary looked to James, who nodded tersely. "Reload," he muttered.
"Right… I knew that."
As the agents reloaded, the Emperor wobbled in the air, its perfect rhythm faltering.
Sora seized the moment. "Now—hit it hard!" he yelled.
Sonic was already a step ahead—literally. The hedgehog leapt high, curled into a high-speed Homing Attack, and launched himself at the Emperor. At the same instant Sora sprang with Slapshot. The combined impact of Keyblade and spinning spines crashed into one of the Emperor's orbiting shields, smashing it to dust.
For the first time, a clear path to the Emperor's chest opened.
Goofy whooped. "One down, fellas!"
But even as he spoke, the remaining orbs converged before the Emperor's core, spinning so fast they blurred into a single glowing ring. The creature's eyes narrowed at the heroes below—wounded, but furious.
With a sweeping gesture, the Emperor changed tactics. The three remaining orbiting spheres began to oscillate around its body, glowing ominously.
Sora's eyes widened as the orbs abruptly morphed shape—demonstrating the Emperor's terrifying, metamorphic power.
One orb elongated and sprouted limbs, forming a hulking suit of armour that landed on the rooftop with a crash. Sora, Sonic, Donald, and Goofy recognised it instantly: the Guard Armor—the very first giant Heartless they had ever defeated together.
"Looks like this guy can transform…" Sonic muttered, but a small smirk tugged at his muzzle. He'd seen this trick before with Metal Sonic. "Ha, nothing new to me."
Another orb shrank and contorted into an impish creature with bat-like wings—the grotesque little jester, Zeal.
"Of course he brought that damn imp!" James groaned.
The third orb hovered overhead, poised to defend the Emperor itself.
Goldman's twisted laughter rang out as his Emperor weaponised the heroes past victories against them. "Let's see how you handle your own nightmares!" he cackled.
The Guard Armor illusion lunged forward, its enormous gauntlets swinging.
WHAM!
Sora crossed blades with the armoured Heartless, blocking a punch with the Kingdom Key. The force of the blow sent a jolt up his arms. "Ungh!" He slid back, shoes skidding.
The Guard Armor's segmented hands broke apart and flew at him from two sides. Sora leapt and cast Blizzard: "Deep Freeze!" Shards of ice erupted and encased one of the incoming fists mid-air, dropping it to the ground where it shattered.
On the other side, Goofy charged with his shield. "Yaaaah!" He performed a Goofy Rocket, flinging himself shield-first into the second giant fist like a battering ram. The gauntlet veered off course, tumbling over the roof's edge. The armoured phantom bellowed in anger at the loss of its limbs.
Meanwhile, Zeal flitted about James and Gary, cackling as it swooped. The tiny imp from the Judgment duo was deceptively fast.
BLAM! BLAM!
The agents fired, but Zeal looped around their shots with mocking laughter. In a blink, it dive-bombed Gary, raking him with its claws.
"Argh!" Gary fell back, clutching a bleeding scratch on his arm. "Damn thing!"
James grit his teeth and reloaded his Light Gun. "You're not real—and you're not stopping us!" he shouted at the demonic illusion.
Zeal only sneered and swooped again. This time, however, Sonic intercepted. The hedgehog dashed in front of the agents and homing-attacked the foe. The hit landed hard, slamming the imp onto the rooftop.
"Let's do this!" Sonic called, smirk widening.
He darted into a tight circle around Zeal, leaving a streak of blue light in his wake. Completing the Cyloop, Sonic's trail erupted in a burst of energy. The shockwave caught the imp and launched the shrieking creature high into the air, spiralling helplessly skyward.
Seeing this, Donald raised his staff high. "THUNDER!" he cried.
Bolts of lightning crashed down from the dark sky, the stormy conditions amplifying his spell. The electrified barrage struck the illusion full force; Zeal's scream cut short as the blast tore it apart.
Sonic glanced toward Donald, who met his eyes with a confident nod. Sonic nodded back firmly.
James and Gary exchanged a quick, cheeky salute.
"Target obliterated," James said with a grin. "We appreciate it."
Across the rooftop, Sora and Goofy were still contending with the Guard Armor replica. Even armless, it attacked by leaping and trying to crush them under its weight.
BOOM!
A shockwave blasted out as it landed, knocking both heroes off their feet.
"Gah!" Sora cried out.
"Oof!" Goofy groaned, shaken by the quake.
The Heartless drew back a leg to stomp on the stunned Goofy. But before it could bring its massive boot down, Donald came to the rescue.
"Nobody wallops my pals but me!" Donald screeched. "WAAAAAK!"
He raised his staff and cast Thunder with a furious flourish. Jagged bolts of lightning crackled down from the clouds, striking the Guard Armor dead-on. Due to the move amplified due to the weather, the armoured hulk convulsed as electricity coursed through it. With a final thunderclap, the armour exploded into purple embers, unable to withstand Donald's wrathful spell.
"Hyuck! Good one, Donald!" Goofy called, catching his breath and steadying his footing.
The mage harrumphed, trying to hide how winded he was after that big spell. Sora gave Donald an encouraging nod before glancing skyward.
"Nice work," Sonic added, jogging over.
"No time for celebrations," James warned, gesturing toward the sky. "It's not down and out yet."
And he was right. The Emperor still hovered above, its plans unravelling. Only one protective orb remained—but the monster wasn't finished fighting dirty.
Goldman scowled and barked into his mic, "Emperor, Phase Two—unleash everything!"
"Get ready!" Sonic shouted, rallying the team.
In response, the Emperor's final orb began to warp and divide. It split into two swirling masses that slammed onto the rooftop on opposite sides of the heroes.
From one rose a lanky silhouette juggling fiery batons—the Trickmaster, the giant jester Heartless from Wonderland. From the other coalesced a hulking, chainsaw-wielding corpse: Strength, the undead titan from the Colosseum.
The rooftop suddenly felt much smaller as the two illusions flanked them.
"Not these guys again!" Donald cried out.
"You know the trickster one?" Gary called, Light Gun raised.
"We sure do," Goofy confirmed, shield firm. "Nothin' but trouble—just like that Strength brute!"
"Copy that," Gary replied, glancing to James. "Let's keep on our toes."
"Right!"
Trickmaster cackled, twirling its flaming batons. It hurled a spinning blaze toward Donald and Goofy, forcing them to dive apart.
"Donald! Goofy!" Sora shouted, starting forward.
"Focus, Sora!" Sonic called, dashing wide to gain distance. "They're okay—look!"
Goofy rolled away with a yelp as the spot he'd stood erupted in fire. Donald quickly cast Aero, surrounding himself with a whirling barrier of wind. The next flaming baton bounced harmlessly off the shield, sparing him from being roasted.
On the other side, Strength let out a guttural roar of a zombie long dead. The seven-foot brute revved its massive chainsaw arm and charged at James and Gary with frightening speed.
"Scatter!" James yelled.
The agents dove apart as the chainsaw cleaved the air between them, its teeth screeching. Gary came up in a crouch and fired a volley into Strength's back—but the monster barely flinched. It swung the flat of its blade like a club, catching Gary across the side.
"Gah!" The agent was hurled backward, skidding toward the roof's edge and falling limp. "Man… down… call… for backup…"
"Gary!" James shouted. His expression hardened as he emptied his magazine into the advancing zombie-Heartless hybrid, managing to stagger it briefly.
Strength turned its hollow gaze towards him—the last one standing in its path.
Before it could charge, Sonic blurred past James, skidding to a stop directly in front of the monster.
"Hey, ugly!" Sonic cracked, smirk sharp. "Think fast!"
In a flash, he launched skyward with a fierce flying kick—his Stomp Attack—slamming into the zombie's knee. The blow landed true, staggering the brute and halting its advance.
"Thanks, Sonic!"
"Don't thank me yet," Sonic said, glancing back. "We need them over here to heal Gary!"
A deep groan rose from Strength. The hedgehog turned, bracelet flaring as he revved a Spin Dash. Like a cannonball, he blasted forward and smashed into the monster's chest, sending it skidding backwards.
The hedgehog landed, uncurled, and looked to James. "That should slow him down," he said, then nodded toward the agent's weapon. "You… might also wanna reload, buddy."
"Roger that."
Sonic nodded and turned towards the others. They were still locked in combat with the Trickmaster—Sora slashing in wide arcs, Donald firing shards of ice, and Goofy slamming his shield into the lanky Heartless' legs to knock it off balance.
"We need you guys and your healing—now!" Sonic called over, his tone urgent.
Hearing the urgency, Sora and Donald turned. They saw Gary down, James reloading under pressure, and Sonic barely holding the line.
Sora's expression hardened. "We have to help them!"
"Let's finish this thing first—together!" Donald affirmed, raising his staff. "Blizzard!"
An icy shard burst from the staff's tip, striking the Trickmaster square, staggering it. Sora followed with his own Blizzard, freezing one of the creature's legs in place.
"Charge!" Goofy yelled, shield raised.
The King's Captain rammed straight into the Trickmaster's trapped leg. It buckled.
Donald raised his staff skyward. "THUNDER!"
Lightning split the clouds and crashed down, vaporising the Heartless on impact. The illusion shattered into ash and was gone.
"Nice!" Sora exclaimed, clenching his free hand in triumph.
"Now, let's help the others!" Donald ordered, turning back towards Sonic, who was darting circles around Strength while James emptied fresh rounds into the hulking beast.
Without hesitation, Sora sprinted over. Donald followed close behind, panting but determined, readying another Thunder spell.
But the Emperor was watching. The levitating tyrant suddenly swooped low, its forearms shifting into blades of crackling energy. With a hiss, it dive-bombed the rooftop, slashing in a wide cross pattern.
"Whoa!" Sora cried, throwing himself into a slide beneath the first blade.
Donald quacked in terror as the second slash connected—SLASH! —sending him tumbling head over tailfeathers.
"AAAHHH!" the duck cried.
Goofy felt the impact tremor underfoot but managed to keep his balance—barely.
Even Sonic was caught off guard; the shockwave from the crossed slashes knocked him flat, dazing him after his last hit on Strength.
James, caught dead in the Emperor's attack zone, took the brunt of it. The blast hurled him into a ventilation unit with a deafening clang! He crumpled to the ground, vision spinning.
Now both AMS agents were down. Donald lay face down, smoke curling from his body. The number of stars floating around their heads could've made a constellation.
Goldman's lips curled into a triumphant grin. "Yes… YES!" he crowed through his mic. "Bow before the Emperor's might! Your friends are finished—and you're next, Keyblade's chosen one!"
Goofy rushed to Sora's side. "Sora, come on, pal!"
Sora pushed himself upright, scanning the carnage. James was barely moving. Gary was still out cold. Donald groaned, struggling to rise. Only Sora, Sonic, and Goofy remained standing—and Strength was lumbering towards them again under the Emperor's command.
The outlook was grim. But Sora refused to give in. Gritting his teeth, he glanced to Goofy and Sonic.
"Cover me!" he remarked bravely.
He sprinted towards Donald first. Goofy stepped up between them and the advancing illusions while Sonic dashed to intercept Strength's chainsaw swing.
Sora knelt beside the fallen mage. "Donald, hang in there!" He drew on the last of his magic, raising his Keyblade. "Heal!"
Green healing light of Cure poured down, mending burns and bruises.
Donald blinked awake with a cough. "Ohh… thanks… again," he muttered, embarrassed to be rescued by Sora—not once, but twice.
Sora helped him sit up properly. "No problem. We still need you out there, Donald."
The duck gave a brisk nod, snapping back to focus as he jumped to his feet.
Sora darted next to James, who was trying—and failing—to stand. Goofy was already there, hauling the groggy agent behind his shield. Strength stomped closer, chainsaw revving.
Then, in a blue blur, Sonic appeared out of nowhere and struck with a Homing Attack, slamming into the brute and throwing it off balance.
"Hurry up, guys!" the hedgehog called, landing from the attack. "We're on the clock!"
Quickly, Goofy unfastened a green-glass potion from his pocket and hurled it upward. "Here ya go, James!" he shouted.
The potion burst over the agent, its glow seeping into his wounds.
James exhaled sharply as his strength returned. "Much obliged, Goofy," he said, gripping his gun again.
Not far away, Donald rushed to the unconscious Gary. The mage rummaged through the agent's jacket and found a spare potion—one of the two they'd bought from the Moogle back at the Colosseum, the other just used by Goofy.
"G must've given this to him," Donald muttered. Popping the cork, he poured it over Gary swiftly.
Within seconds, the agent's eyes fluttered open. "Wh–what…? Donald? Thanks!" he gasped, astonished to see the duck standing over him.
Donald offered a tired grin. "Don't mention it! Now get back in there—that's an order!"
"Roger!"
Across the roof, Sonic gave a whoop as he saw both agents stirring. He raced by, grabbing Gary's hand to help him up.
"No time for naps, pal!" Sonic teased. "We gotta end this!"
Reinvigorated, James and Gary armed themselves and regrouped with the others. The heroes formed a defensive circle as Strength loomed and the Emperor hovered above, charging another wave of power.
Despite their exhaustion, everyone's eyes burned with determination. They would not let this abomination win.
"Together!" Sora shouted, Keyblade at the ready.
"Together!" James echoed, levelling his gun as Gary joined him.
Strength lumbered forward, dragging its chainsaw like a blade of doom. The whirring teeth screamed, sparks snapping into the air.
Sonic's gaze followed the brute's advance, his smirk sharpening. "I got an idea," he said confidently, backing up a few steps. "Hit it while I charge up."
"Charge up? What are you gonna do?" Sora asked, looking to the hedgehog.
"Oh-ho-ho…" Sonic's grin widened. "Let's just say Strength's in for a surprise."
As he spoke, his green eyes flared into brilliant cyan. The others felt it—an invisible pressure building around him like static before a storm.
For a brief second, everyone hesitated, mesmerised by the glow dancing across Sonic's fur. Then the guttural roar of Strength's chainsaw snapped them back. The monster thundered closer.
"Focus!" James barked, turning his attention to the advancing brute.
"Let's take it out!" Sora called.
The heroes surged forward as one. Sora darted in first, Keyblade slashing across Strength's midsection. Goofy followed, shield-bashing the giant's knee. Donald shouted, "Blizzard!" sending a burst of ice into its chest. James and Gary fired in sync, twin volleys of light hammering its flanks.
Behind them, Sonic crouched low into a sprinter's stance, gloved hands pressed to the slick rooftop. Blue sparks zipped along his arms and legs, looping around him in tightening rings.
"READY!" he called, voice cutting clean through the storm. The arcs of energy intensified, tracing luminous streaks that burned against the rain.
Watching on from his safety point, Goldman leaned in with baffled curiosity, eyes wide. "What is this? Kinetic energy from that… rat? Impossible—he can't channel that magnitude!"
Sonic's voice boomed through the chaos: "MOVE GUYS!"
Hearing his command, the team broke away on instinct, diving clear just as the battered Strength staggered upright.
"GO!" Sonic roared.
And he was gone.
A single flash of blue light erupted where he'd crouched. The world blurred; the air itself seemed to tear apart as Sonic crossed the rooftop faster than sight.
BOOM!
He hit Strength square in the chest like a living comet. The impact detonated in a pulse of azure light, shattering the illusion in an explosion of vaporised shadow and scattering motes.
Even the Emperor reeled, its ethereal form rippling from the shockwave. Wind howled across the rooftop. Goldman staggered, shielding his face as the kinetic burst forced him back a step. The heroes all fell back due to the force, as if the wind turned into a hurricane due to the force of the attack.
When the light faded, the heroes looked up. Sonic stood amid the drifting darkness, steam rising from the soaked rooftop and his shoes. The blue aura ebbed, his eyes fading back to green.
He exhaled, a small, satisfied chuckle escaping. "Light Speed Attack," he said, straightening up. "Keeping that one tucked away for emergencies."
The group scrambled to their feet, awestruck.
"That was nuts!" Sora exclaimed.
Donald gawked. "How did you—?"
Sonic pointed down to the smoking shoes on his feet, grinning. "All in the shoes, pal. Told ya buying 'em from that Moogle would pay off."
Goofy laughed. "Hyuck, I'll say—it paid off big time!"
Above them, thunder cracked loudly, grabbing their attention.
Enraged by the heroes' resilience, the Emperor ascended higher, its silhouette stark against a flash of lightning.
"I think you pissed it off…" Gary muttered, glancing at Sonic.
"Meh, means we're getting under its skin," Sonic taunted, bouncing lightly on his toes, already anticipating the next attack. "Let's take this thing down for good!"
The Emperor stretched out an arm and unleashed a barrage of crackling energy orbs. The projectiles multiplied in the air, raining down from every direction like a storm of meteors.
"Incoming! Take cover!" James shouted.
The team scattered. Sora dashed forward, Guarding with his Keyblade and deflecting several bolts in perfect rhythm. Donald surrounded himself with another Aero barrier, weaving between explosions—each impact rattling his shield and forcing him back a step. Sonic curled into a ball and spin-dodged through a cluster of homing blasts, the detonations bursting harmlessly behind him. Goofy braced beneath his shield like an umbrella; every strike jolted his arms, but he refused to budge.
The rooftop quaked beneath the fiery onslaught. Yet when the dust cleared, the heroes were still standing. The Emperor's final defensive orbs were gone—spent in that furious barrage. Only the tyrant itself remained, glaring down in disbelief that its ultimate attack hadn't destroyed this stubborn band.
This was the opening they'd been waiting for.
"Its chest—look! That orb's the weak point!" Gary shouted, pointing to the glowing core pulsing in the creature's torso.
With its shields gone, the pink core was exposed. Snarling, the Emperor crossed its arms, one morphing into a broad energy plate that sealed across its chest. It floated higher, guarding its heart with its own armoured limb.
"We need to break that defence!" Sora yelled.
Sonic skidded to Sora's side, eyes fixed on the Emperor's guarded core. "I've got another idea," he said with a confident smirk.
"Huh? What are you—" Sora began, but Sonic was already moving.
The hedgehog sprinted off—a streak of blue tracing a perfect circle around the rooftop. A semi-pixelated trail followed in his wake, glowing brighter with every lap.
"What is that fool up to now?!" Goldman barked, his eyes darting to follow the blur.
Sonic completed the loop and reappeared beside Goofy.
"Hey, what are you doi—" Goofy started.
"Heads up!" Sonic cut in, snapping his fingers.
The glowing ring detonated in a brilliant flash. The Cyloop erupted into a swirling updraft, tearing at the Emperor's defences. The giant's shield arm was ripped aside, its balance broken by the sudden vortex.
"Now's our chance—hit it with everything!" James commanded.
There were no questions, the heroes attacked in unison.
"Thunder!" Donald shouted, calling down a crackling bolt that struck the Emperor squarely, stunning it.
Sora followed instantly. "Blizzard!" A jagged wave of ice engulfed the Emperor's lower body, freezing it in place.
The creature's eyes widened as it struggled against the frost—but too late. Goofy spun in with a roaring Goofy Tornado, smashing his shield into its body and knocking it lower toward the rooftop.
James and Gary opened fire, their Light Guns blazing. Sparks flew as each round hit the exposed core, cracks spider-webbing across the glowing orb in its chest.
"GraaaAAARGH!" the Emperor howled—a discordant cry of metal and fury.
The core pulsed violently, energy arcing in wild, unstable flashes. Desperate, the creature raised both arms overhead, gathering electricity between its fingers—ready to detonate.
But Sonic was already moving. His bracelet flared brightly as he boosted up the side of Goldman's rooftop signage for extra height.
"PHANTOM RUSH!" he shouted.
He dove from above, unleashing a blinding flurry of kicks and punches. His limbs became a blur of afterimages, every strike pounding the same fractured spot. The rapid-fire combo ended in a final, echoing haymaker that shattered through the Emperor's core.
Sonic landed in a three-point stance as the creature froze behind him. For a second, everything was still. Then fractures rippled outward from the gaping hole where its heart had been.
The Emperor began to glow from within—its form collapsing under the runaway energy.
"No… NO! This isn't possible!" Goldman screamed in anger, slamming his fists against a nearby railing. "The Emperor is invincible! Invincible!"
James stepped forward, gun raised. "Nothing's invincible, Goldman," he said, voice like steel. "Not even your abomination."
The words hung in the air as the Emperor's eyes flickered one last time—
and the monster exploded.
A blinding flash engulfed the rooftop. The Emperor shattered into a thousand fragments, each dissolving into streaks of light that shot upward through the sky like a flurry of shooting stars.
The shockwave nearly knocked the heroes off their feet. Sonic and Sora caught James and Gary, while Goofy shielded Donald.
The roar faded into silence.
Where the Emperor had hovered, only empty sky remained—and a gentle rain of glittering particles drifted down, the last remnants of its power fading into the night.
The long, gruelling battle was finally over.
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: A
Sonic straightened from his landing stance, water dripping from his quills. He glanced toward the ruined skyline, then turned with a smirk. "Heh. A-Rank. Cool!" He spun once on his heel, flicked a bit of water from his glove, and broke into a half-dance—one spin, one foot tap—finishing with a finger-gun pose and an exaggerated wink. "Still got it."
Sora chuckled tiredly, twirling his Keyblade once before resting it on his shoulder.
"An A, huh? Not bad… though I think I earned half of that."
Donald puffed out his chest, hands on his hips.
"Half?! I earned that A-Rank! My magic carried this fight!"
"Carried?" Sora said with a grin. "You were face-down twice!"
Donald's feathers bristled. "Wak! Technicalities!"
Goofy laughed, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Gawrsh, I thought it was more of a B-Rank myself… but hyuck—hot dog!" He threw a victorious fist skyward. "I'll take it, fellas!"
Sonic gave him a mock salute.
"Positive attitude, big guy. That's half the game."
Behind them, James and Gary lowered their Light Guns, the last sparks fading from their barrels. The two exchanged a look.
"Should we… celebrate?" Gary asked, sounding uncertain.
James shook his head. "Not yet. We've still got one loose end to tie up first."
The rain began to fall harder now, hissing where each drop struck the flooded rooftop and the weary heroes.
A slow, deliberate sound cut through the downpour.
Clap… clap… clap.
They all turned towards the noise. On the far side of the roof stood Goldman. His once-pristine suit clung, soaked through but somehow untouched by filth; his slicked hair hadn't moved an inch. Lightning flashed across his glasses, rendering his eyes into blank mirrors. His face held no rage, no panic—only cold, clinical fascination.
"Fascinating," he murmured at last, voice calm beneath the thunder. "To think the Emperor could fall… to the likes of you."
Sonic tilted his head, one hand on his hip. "Well, look who's simmered down after his little tantrum just now," he taunted, dropping into a mocking monotone voice. "'The Emperor is invincible! Invincible!'" He threw both hands up, then sliced the air with one. "Guess your creation couldn't handle the heat, Goldman. It's over."
James and Gary stepped forward, Light Guns levelled despite the driving rain.
"Don't move!" James barked. "Caleb Goldman—you're under arrest for crimes against humanity!"
"It's the end of the line," Gary added, tone sharp as the storm.
Donald jabbed a finger at the accused man. "Yeah, you big palooka!"
Sonic crossed his arms. "You heard the man. It's the slammer for you."
"Can't do the time, don't do the crime," Goofy chimed, shield still raised.
Goldman didn't so much as blink. Only his eyes moved—tracking upward towards the sky where the Emperor's body had faded into particles.
"Do you really think this changes anything?" he asked softly, almost to himself.
"What are you talking about?" Sora demanded, one arm sweeping wide. "You lost!"
"Yes. I may have lost today," Goldman replied, voice hollow and even, "but man still committed a sin… disturbing the life-cycle of nature." He lifted his chin slightly, as if preaching to unseen followers. "The original sin that man is responsible for cannot be undone. It can only be… repeated."
"Huh?" Sora frowned, tilting his head. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"You understand so little…" Goldman said flatly, his eyes narrowing. Then, after a pause, he added in that same cryptic tone, "One who knows nothing, can understand nothing."
The words hit Sora like a spark in the dark. That line… he'd heard it before. Back on Destiny Islands, in the Secret Place—the man in the brown cloak, standing before the door. The same voice. The same cold weight behind the words.
Sonic glanced over, catching the change in Sora's expression. The hedgehog's brow rose slightly, but he said nothing, letting the moment pass in silence.
Sora blinked, pulling himself back to the present, but the echo of that old voice lingered, threading through his thoughts like a shadow he couldn't shake.
"Goldman!" Gary barked, stepping forward as everyone's attention snapped to him. "Don't try anything. Hands where I can see them!"
Slowly, Goldman obeyed. Both hands rose, palms open, the motion precise—too deliberate to be surrender. Step by step, he edged backwards, shoes slipping on the slick rooftop as he neared the edge.
"GOLDMAN, stop!" James shouted, moving after him.
"This…" Goldman said, rain tracing down his lenses, "…is not the end. It is only… the beginning." He paused on the brink, one polished shoe half-off the ledge. His gaze swept the group—Sora, Sonic, Donald, Goofy, the AMS agents—memorising each face with eerie calm. "So long… friends."
And he leaned back.
"NO!" James lunged, Gary right behind him.
"Goldman!" Sora shouted, sprinting after them with Sonic, Donald, and Goofy close behind.
They reached the edge together— but it was too late. The ledge was empty. Only rain and wind met them, no body, no cry, no impact. The void below churned and swallowed all trace.
Sora froze, heart hammering. "He—he jumped!"
"Yes," Gary said, scanning the abyss. "But… there's no sign of a body."
James clenched his jaw. "It's like he just disappeared."
Sonic leaned over, squinting through the rain. "Shouldn't there be, y'know… some kind of splat or—something?"
Donald grimaced at the thought. "Ew! Don't say it like that!"
Sonic shrugged, turning to the duck. "What? Even Goldman can't break the law of gravity… right?"
Goofy rubbed his chin slowly, peering down carefully. "Maybe he used some kinda trick. Or… maybe the darkness took him."
The rain poured harder, a silver curtain veiling the city of Venice. The air itself felt wrong—too still, too heavy—as if something unseen lingered just beyond the storm.
Sora stepped back from the edge, lowering his Keyblade. "It's like he wanted this to happen," he said quietly. "Like… he planned it."
"Seems that way," James muttered, holstering his weapon. "He's pulled stunts before, but nothing like this."
Gary exhaled, tone steady but grim. "Either way, he's gone. We'd better report to G before this gets any stranger."
Sonic cast one last look down to the ground below. "Yeah… something tells me we haven't seen the last of that guy."
James nodded and gestured towards the elevator. "Come on. Let's get back to G and the others. We need to debrief and dry off."
In unison, the group moved. Their footsteps echoed against the drenched rooftop—heavy, tired, fading into the hum of the rain.
However, Sora lingered a moment longer, the wind tugging at his soaked hair. He glanced back toward the roof's ledge—and for an instant, thought he saw something flicker: a faint glint of green light, like static data scattering through the air. Then it was gone. He swallowed hard. "Let's get out of here," he murmured to himself.
Back at the Colosseum...
The rain had thinned to a mist by the time they reached the Colosseum again.
Grey sky pressed low on the broken arches; the ruin exhaled salt, rust, and lingering canal water. No Heartless. No shuffling bioweapons. Only their footsteps and the whisper of rain on stone.
Beneath a half-collapsed arch, G stood waiting, Jiminy perched on his shoulder.
Harry leaned against a cracked column, arms folded, while Amy paced the perimeter—sidearm holstered but never far from her hand.
All three looked up as the six figures came into view, weary but standing.
G met them halfway. "Report."
James kept it short. "The Emperor's down. We fought it on the rooftop of Goldman's HQ. He was there… watching. Then—" he glanced at Gary.
"Jumped," Gary finished quietly. "Over the ledge. No body. No impact on the ground."
"So he escaped…" G murmured flatly.
"Yep…" Gary confirmed. "Afraid so…"
G's expression didn't change. "Of course he did…"
"Golly," Jiminy said, his tiny hat tilting back. "That's one fancy disappearing act."
"And one big headache to explain to the higher-ups at AMS," G sighed, rubbing the top of his forehead.
"He gave us the classic villain send-off—then missed the landing. Literally…" Sonic added, hands on his hips, a drop of rainwater handing from the edge of his nose.
"'So long, friends,'" Sora murmured. The words still clung to him like the damp air. "That's what he said before he took the leap."
Amy blew out a breath. "You're sure he's gone?"
"Not sure of anything," James said flatly. "And that's what worries me."
G nodded once—filed, not finished. His gaze moved to Sora. The boy's shoulders were squared, but the spark in his eyes had dimmed.
"What's on your mind?" G asked, his tone softer than usual.
"Yeah, Sora—penny for your thoughts?" Jiminy piped up from the senior agent's shoulder.
Sora stared towards a shadowed corridor. "I thought we'd find my friends here. Riku. Kairi." He swallowed hard, eyes looking to the ground. "But we didn't."
Sonic bumped him lightly with an elbow. "Then they lucked out, 'cause this place is a nightmare." Sora blinked at him—then smiled, just a little. "We'll find them," Sonic went on, voice steady. "We'll keep going till we do."
Goofy set a gloved hand on Sora's shoulder, giving him a reassuring squeeze. "Gawrsh, pal, we'll find 'em. I know we will."
Donald shifted, feathers sticking together from the drizzle. He cleared his throat.
"Sora… I was kinda rough on you earlier." His voice wobbled between pride and guilt. "Sorry—and, uh, thanks. For helpin' me on that roof."
Sora's reply was gentle. "I'm sorry too. And… thanks for being my friend."
They held the look a second longer than usual, then both broke into small smiles.
The tension that had been hanging over the group finally eased.
"It's good to see you two making up," Sonic said, flashing a thumbs-up. "That teamwork on the roof?"—he kissed his glove fingers—"chef's kiss."
"Yeah—all for one, right?" Goofy chimed, beaming.
Donald puffed up smugly. "Sora and I make a great team," he said proudly. "Especially when it comes to magic."
"We sure do," Sora agreed, grin returning.
A breeze slipped through the arches. The Colosseum's inner gate yawned before them, darker than the rain clouds above. Sora's eyes caught on it. Something tugged at the edge of his heart—familiar and far away, the way the doorknob in Wonderland had once felt.
"Hold on," Sora murmured.
"What's up?" Sonic asked, half-turning.
Sora didn't answer. He stepped toward the gate, the Keyblade rising in his grip as if it had been waiting for the signal—its tip angling north like a compass needle that had finally found true bearing.
Light began to gather—first a tremor, then a steady pulse. The glow swelled until it filled the ruined archway with brilliance.
Sora pointed the weapon towards the darkness. The beam shot forward, slicing through the gloom and striking something unseen.
Click.
The sound was impossibly vast—a lock turning somewhere beneath the skin of the world. Wind reversed through the arches, pulling the rain and dust inward before everything stilled.
The pressure that had weighed on Venice since its fall simply lifted.
Everyone felt it—the tension uncoiling, the heaviness peeling off their shoulders like a shadow finally shaken free.
James glanced up, scanning instinctively. "Did anyone else—?"
"Like a giant door just shut," Gary muttered, eyes wide as he scratched the top of his rain-soaked head.
Amy's voice was hushed but bright. "That Keyblade of yours—" she looked to Sora, "what did you just do?"
"Not really sure…" Sora lowered the blade, exhaling a long breath. "I'm still figuring that part out."
Harry tilted his head, studying the quiet gate from behind his shades. "Whatever it was," he said, "it worked."
Jiminy hopped from G's shoulder to Sora's, brushing a raindrop off his hat. "Either way, I'd call that a job well done, Sora."
"The cricket's right," Sonic piped up, giving him a firm nod. "Whatever you did—it helped." He paused, frowning as something caught his eye near a puddle. A faint blue pulse shimmered there, humming with energy. "Speaking of which…" He crouched and plucked the object from the water.
"Sonic?" Donald asked, tilting his head.
"What'd ya find, pal?" Goofy added, stepping closer.
Sonic straightened, something bright cupped between thumb and finger. In his hand, a gem the colour of northern seas scattered shards of blue light across the wet stone.
"Would ya look at that…" he murmured, grin tugging at one corner. "The blue Chaos Emerald."
"Wow!" Donald breathed.
"Pretty!" Goofy echoed, eyes wide.
Sonic turned the gem, the light chasing across his glove. "Two down, five to go," he said, that trademark smirk creeping in as the energy hummed through his veins.
"Five more?" Amy leaned in, curiosity winning out over fatigue. "You collect them?"
"Yep. Working on a full set," Sonic replied, half-grinning. He gave the emerald a light toss and caught it again. "I won't bore you with the story. It's long, complicated… and weird."
Amy rested a hand on her hip. "We do investigate weird, remember?"
"It's not that kind of weird," Sonic said with a small laugh.
James tilted his head, memory clicking. "So you're collecting these emeralds… like that green shard we found in the alley?"
"Bingo," Sonic said. "Different mission, same headache."
Gary arched a brow. "Your line of work is… unique." He glanced at James. "Would you call Sonic's jewel collecting a job or a hobby?"
James shrugged. "Depends on the insurance policy."
Sonic's grin widened, flicking the gem once before slipping it safely away. "Let's call it an occupational hazard."
Harry deadpanned. "That's one way to describe rock collecting."
"Right," Amy snorted, half a laugh escaping. "Only you, Sonic."
"Yep." The hedgehog grinned, jabbing a thumb at himself. "Only me."
Sora, Donald, and Goofy couldn't help laughing. After everything that had happened, Sonic's confidence—the way he could make light out of chaos—was grounding. He always made the impossible feel possible.
G watched the exchange quietly. His gaze lingered on Sora, whose laughter faded into a thoughtful stare. The boy looked tired but searching—eyes that still wanted meaning.
"Sora," G said at last, reaching into his jacket. He drew out something hanging from a short chain—a small, weighty charm that caught the weak light.
It wasn't quite a coin. Half AMS badge, half archaic relic. The rim was toothed like a gear, and a single wing—metal, feathered, poised mid-turn—jutted from its edge.
Jiminy leaned forward on Sora's shoulder. "Wow… that's something new."
Sora tilted his head. "G? What is that?"
G offered it to him, his expression unreadable but kind as Sora took it. "Intelligence suggests your weapon reacts to… tokens." He folded his arms, a faint smile ghosting across his face. "Different emblems, different configurations. You might call them Keychains. Change the charm, and your blade changes too."
Sora blinked. "It can do that?" He looked at the Mickey emblem hanging from his Keyblade, then down at G's gift—feeling it hum faintly in his palm.
Jiminy gave a little hop on his shoulder, getting his attention. "Go on, Sora—try it out!"
"Right. Let's see."
Sora unclasped the old chain and replaced it with the new one.
Suddenly, light flared immediately. The Keyblade glowed, humming low like machinery waking. Gears clicked beneath the guard; a ribbed shaft telescoped outward; the simple crown teeth unfolded into a gothic lattice of arches. The guard reshaped into twin crescents—sun and moon intertwined—and lines of soft silver chased through a dark blade like cathedral tracery. At the tip, a crystal orb bloomed with green-blue light.
"Whoa…" Sora breathed in astonishment.
"Golly!" Jiminy exclaimed, hopping up in surprise.
Goofy's jaw went slack, hand on his chin examining it. "Gawrsh… that's swell!"
"Fancy," Donald admitted, sounding impressed despite himself.
James let out a low whistle, pointing to the weapon. "Now that's an upgrade."
"Feels like it belongs here—like the world built it for you," Gary remarked.
Sonic chuckled, hands on his hips. "New paint job suits you, kid."
Sora turned the Keyblade slowly, watching light ripple through the crystal tip.
"What's it called?"
G lifted a brow. "Your weapon, your name."
Sora thought of the hearts they'd freed, the way the Colosseum had seemed to breathe again when the lock turned. Weirdly, a small, quiet warmth stirred inside him—the same feeling he used to get back on the islands, when Kairi would make him name every odd thing they found or made. That memory guided him now, steady, and sure.
"The name's…" He smiled faintly. "Redemption's Echo."
The words fit. The Keyblade pulsed once, as if agreeing.
"A fine name, if you ask me," Jiminy said chipperly, looking to Sora. "I'll make a note of it in the journal once we've dried off."
G inclined his head, satisfied. "I hope the upgrade carries you further than this world's line in the sand."
"Thanks," Sora said. The word was small, full.
A gentle silence followed. No Heartless or bioweapons to ruin the moment. Even the rain had softened into ordinary drizzle, like the world itself had exhaled with relief.
However, Harry broke it first. "So. Logistics." His smirk was tired but friendly.
"Logistics…" Sora echoed, glancing to Jiminy on his shoulder. The cricket only shrugged.
Harry gestured loosely. "How do 'world travellers' get moving when their ride's scrap?"
Sonic winced, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, about that…"
Sora blinked in surprise. "Wait—what? How did you know?"
"We had a hunch," Harry answered. He nodded towards the group. "A kid with a giant key, talking animals, a cricket in a top hat taking notes… not the hardest guess we've ever made."
Amy laughed under her breath. "He's got a point."
"Especially with the things you guys can do," James added. "Let's just say it's alien to us."
"Gawrsh, really?" Goofy asked, scratching his head.
"Come on," James said, grinning now. He gestured to Donald. "A duck who can summon fireballs. Not exactly local."
Donald folded his arms but couldn't muster much heat. "Hmph."
Amy shot him an amused look. "You were gonna say 'World Order,' right? Don't worry—you're not the first to mutter that around the AMS."
G spared them. "You're not our first travellers," he said evenly. "And won't be the last we deal with. The AMS has protocols. We can get you where you need to go."
Sora's head lifted. "You can?"
"We'll arrange a pickup at a safe rendezvous," G confirmed. "Discreet. No paperwork you'll need to sign."
Sonic let out a breath he hadn't realised he was holding. "Man, I could kiss you." He paused, grinned. "But I won't. Professionalism and all."
"Appreciated," G said dryly.
James' mouth twitched. "Besides, if you stuck around, we'd start charging you consulting fees."
"Hyuck, we'd be broke in an hour," Goofy laughed, and the sound rolled through the group, breaking the last of the tension.
Even G let himself laugh—low, brief, but genuine. When it faded, the senior agent offered a hand to Sora. The boy took it without hesitation—awkward, sincere, a promise in the grip.
"If you're ever in the neighbourhood," G said, "you've got allies here."
Harry tapped two fingers to his shades. "And a bar tab. First round's on me next time."
"Second's on me," Amy added with a grin.
Sonic cocked a brow and thumbed towards Sora. "Uh… I don't think the kid's old enough."
Sora blinked, confused. "Old enough for what?"
"Oh, Sora…" Sonic sighed, dragging a gloved hand down his face. "You're too innocent for your own good."
"Soda for him," Donald said with a smirk.
"Root beer'll do the trick," Goofy chuckled.
Sora laughed and nodded. "Whatever you're all talking about, just know we'll always be around to help."
James gave a short, solid nod. "We'll keep an ear out for your brand of trouble."
"Thanks," Sora said softly, looking across the group. "For everything."
He lifted Redemption's Echo once, feeling its perfect balance—lighter than it looked, steadier than it should be.
Beside him, Sonic summoned and raised the blue Chaos Emerald. Its glow answered the Keyblade with a soft harmonic pulse, like two notes sharing the same song.
"Guess we both picked up something today," Sonic said.
Sora smiled. "Yeah. Guess we did."
The rain eased to a fine mist. A single shaft of pale light slipped through the clouds and caught the rim of the arena, turning the wet stone into a faint halo. For a moment, the Colosseum looked new again.
"So—where's a good pickup point in Venice?" Gary asked, glancing to G.
"The Wharf," G answered. "Fifteen minutes." He looked to the travellers. "Gary will escort you. Keep your heads down—and stay out of trouble."
Donald groaned. "Fifteen minutes? After all that?"
"Oh, come on, Donald," Goofy chuckled. "Just think— we can take a power nap on the ship."
Sonic bounced on his heels, energy already returning. "If we're early, I can do a quick lap before the transport shows."
"Please don't," James said with a weary grin. "Venice just got quiet. Let's keep it that way."
"No promises," Sonic teased, giving him a two-fingered salute. "See you folks around."
"Take care," Amy called after them.
"And don't do anything stupid," Harry added, half-smiling.
The heroes waved, then turned towards the archway leading back to the city—Sora, Sonic, Donald, and Goofy in the centre, Gary falling into step beside them like an escort.
Sora paused at the threshold and glanced back toward the place where the Keyblade's light had sealed the Keyhole's lock. He still didn't know where Riku and Kairi were, or what waited beyond the next world. But the weight in his hand felt right. And the road ahead felt open.
Jiminy adjusted his hat and smiled from Sora's shoulder. "All set, Sora?"
He met the cricket's eyes and nodded. "Ready."
The group of world travellers stepped out of the Colosseum and into the rain-washed streets—Venice lighter by a lock no one else would ever see—heading towards a rendezvous only a handful would ever know, leaving behind a ruin that, for the first time in a long while, sounded like nothing more than stone and rain.
Back in Traverse Town - Second District
[Traverse Town - Kingdom Hearts HD I.5 ReMiX plays]
Aerith and Shadow walked side by side, their steps echoing on cobblestones. Her ribbon caught the lamplight each time she turned her head, whilst the hedgehog's air shoes scuffed stone.
"The second District isn't glamorous," Aerith said, voice warm but low. "But it keeps us safe. Safer than most places around here, anyway…"
"I said it before, safe is relative," Shadow replied, scanning the rooflines. "And Heartless don't respect borders."
"No," Aerith agreed. "But people do. That helps a lot."
They both saw a cluster of shadows pooling ahead—black stains that crawled upwards and resolved into shapes with yellow eyes. They noticed the pair straight away.
"Here they come," Aerith breathed, summoning her silver staff.
Shadow didn't bother with theatrics. He rushed forward, chaos energy speckled at his gloved palm; he launched a controlled Chaos Spear that punched through a Shadow's chest. It burst apart into dark mist. Two Soldiers pirouetted in with spinning kicks, but the hedgehog slid under the first, vaulted the second, and axel-kicked it into the pavement.
"Pathetic," he said bluntly, unimpressed.
Nearby, Aerith's staff flashed. "Aero!" Wind inhaled, then exhaled in a tight ring that sent the smaller Heartless tumbling back. She stepped in, tapped one with her staff; it popped like a bubble and was gone.
Shadow gave a low "hm," frown deepening as he glanced at Aerith. She met his look with a small, untroubled smile.
His ears twitched—another threat approached. A Large Body lumbered from a side street, belly gleaming like a shield. It roared and charged. Shadow blurred—one moment at Aerith's side, the next already past the monster—his heel driving into the small of its back. The thing stumbled forward, exposed.
Aerith slid to its flank and raised her staff. "Fire!" The flame licked the edge of its bulk—precise rather than harsh—and the Heartless blew apart into smoke.
They watched the last specks drift up towards the night.
Aerith exhaled, a soft smile. "You're very… efficient."
"Years of practice." Shadow's gaze traced the roofs once more before easing a fraction. "Tell me, Aerith— you move like someone who doesn't like to hurt things."
She met that with the gentlest humour. "I don't." Then, quieter: "But I've learnt that healing and fighting sometimes share a road."
"Hmm." Shadow hummed in thought, watching as Aerith started forward. He fell in beside her.
They crossed into the square outside the hotel, where the neon DRESS & SUIT sign flickered like a heartbeat. Aerith rested her staff at her side.
"May I ask you something?" she asked.
"…Sure," Shadow replied, blunt as ever.
"You said earlier that you fell from the ARK, and afterwards… there was amnesia." She glanced at him—no pressure, just room. "What happened? If you don't mind telling me."
Shadow's answer came like a measured step onto a narrow bridge. "I woke up broken."
Aerith waited, concern softening her features as she tilted her head towards him.
"I was found in one of Eggman's labs," he said, folding his arms; his eyes dropped to the cobbles as memory surfaced. "I awoke from a stasis capsule. I didn't remember who I was or why I existed." His mouth barely moved as he looked up to the starry sky. "I was told I might be an android. Maybe there were copies. Maybe I was the real Shadow, or not."
Aerith's eyes warmed—no gasp, no pity—just steady light. "That must have been… disorientating."
"It was a distraction," he said bluntly. "The past doesn't change whether it's the original or a copy remembering it." His gaze slid to the clock tower, where the hands glinted. "I chased ghosts of my own memory. Hunted answers, fought in teams that didn't fit, played along with villains who never deserved the benefit." He paused, head turning. "Then the sky turned red."
"Turned red?" Aerith echoed.
"The Black Arms arrived," Shadow said, disdain threading his tone.
"Black Arms…"
"Yes." His red eyes flickered. "Their leader, Black Doom. He said I was born of his blood—Gerald used extra-terrestrial DNA to finish Project Shadow."
"So… you aren't fully Mobian?"
"No," Shadow answered flatly. "And Black Doom wanted his payment: the Chaos Emeralds… and my obedience."
"And you told him no."
"Eventually," he said, the corner of his mouth tilting—barely a smile. "He invaded. Cities burned. People screamed. He tried to make me a weapon. I looked at the world and made a choice that wasn't his, or Gerald's, or Eggman's." His gaze steadied on her. "I fought back and ended it. Devil Doom fell. That day I decided I'm more than what anyone made me. I chose my own path."
Aerith let silence honour that. Signboards hummed. Somewhere, a door creaked and shut. Above, the stars hung like patient witnesses to the hedgehog's revelation.
"Thank you," she said simply. "Thank you for sharing that with me."
Shadow didn't answer—he nodded once, unfolding his arms—then his head cocked, scowl deepening. "More are here."
Darkness had pooled at the base of the luggage shop steps: three small Heartless, low, and quick, eyes like coins in the dark. They sprang as one.
Aerith's staff pointed at the ground in front of the foes. "Blizzard." Frost skated over the stones, catching the first Shadow mid-pounce; it skidded wide, limbs scrabbling for purchase.
Shadow was already moving. He slid in on the ice, heel snapping down to shatter the Heartless into smoke. The second sprang for Aerith's flank—she pivoted lightly, staff flicking into the creature's face with a bright crack. It staggered straight into Shadow's palm; a contained pulse of Chaos chuffed, and it unravelled.
The third tried to dive beneath them, melting flat against the ground. Shadow stamped, hard and precise; Aerith's staff came down in the same movement. Light and pressure pinned the Shadow in a cross, and it burst like a pricked ink drop.
Aerith smiled, cheeks lifting as she looked to Shadow. "We make a good team."
Shadow huffed — more acknowledgement than dismissal — and turned to walk on. Aerith fell in beside him without missing a step.
"My turn for answers," Shadow said evenly.
"Okay," Aerith replied, ready.
"Yuffie mentioned a 'home from home' earlier," Shadow said after a moment. "What did she mean by that?"
"Oh…" Aerith's expression softened, thoughtful. "We had our original home — before we had to flee to another."
"Another?"
"Mm." Her smile turned inward as she stopped walking.
Shadow halted too, folding his arms once more. "Care to explain your original home?"
"It's… was… far away," she said quietly. "Beyond the lanes most ships would ever dare to travel. I don't think anyone could've found it by accident. We weren't meant to leave… but then the darkness didn't ask permission." She traced a finger along the rough brickwork beside her, then let it fall gently. "We were a small team once. Cid, Yuffie, me… and others. We escaped from our world and found a new one — thought we could rebuild something there." She sighed, the sound faint but heavy. "And then we lost even that."
"You stayed with the ones you could," Shadow said simply.
"I did," she nodded. "Cid keeps us running. Yuffie keeps us laughing. Leon joined us later — he keeps us steady." Her voice softened with memory. "And there are names I still say to the stars at night. People I miss. I haven't seen them in years."
Shadow didn't offer comfort. He offered honesty. "Grief doesn't clock out."
"So true…" Aerith said, her tone touched with quiet gratitude. She let the words linger — and somehow, they felt kinder than any platitude. "You really do understand."
He gave the smallest nod. "I do."
"Because of Maria," Aerith said softly, watching him.
Shadow nodded once, his expression unreadable, though his focus drifted skyward before he could dwell on it. The faint light from the clock tower caught in his crimson eyes—steady and distant all at once.
Suddenly, a Soldier dropped from a balcony, twisting for a heel-kick. Shadow caught the ankle mid-air, pivoted, and slammed it down hard enough to burst it into smoke. Another tried the same trick and met a palmful of crackling energy. A single Chaos Spear stitched it to the wall; the nail of light dissolved, and so did the Heartless.
Aerith watched with a touch of professional curiosity. "Your power… it feels different from magic."
"It is," he said. "Chaos energy. It answers to intent, not incantations." His eyes flicked to her staff. "Yours answers to kindness and empathy."
She gave a small laugh. "You make it sound like they're living things."
"They might as well be," Shadow said. Then, almost thoughtful: "Most worthy tools are."
They moved again, passing the hotel into the clock plaza. Aerith slowed, then stopped in the open square, looking up at the sky.
"Sometimes I think Traverse Town breathes with us," she said, hands folded at her front. "It feels the people who wash up here—the lost ones, the ones who survived."
Shadow followed her gaze to the stars. Something stirred deep within him—an echo, a pull. He dropped his gaze and huffed, folding his arms.
"Shadow?" Aerith asked softly.
"Something… calls to me," he said, his tone firm but distant.
Aerith turned, scanning the square. "Here?" She looked across the way. "I don't see anyone."
"No. Not here." The hedgehog's eyes narrowed towards a point beyond the rooftops—as if the stars themselves might shift to show him the way. "Something… someone far away. Like a voice under water. I can't make out the words, but it's there. Constant." His fingers tapped his arm before he forced them still. "And it's strangely familiar."
"Familiar how?"
Shadow's frown deepened. "I can't explain it." He shook his head once. "Maybe it's just static from too many worlds colliding—the darkness interfering with Chaos."
"Or maybe your heart is listening," Aerith said warmly. "Some people don't hear the quiet calls. But the ones who do…" She smiled—small and luminous. "They tend to answer."
He looked up and met her eyes for a moment longer than habit allowed, then looked back up. "If there's a path to them, I'll find it."
"I believe you will," she said, as though stating a law of nature.
Suddenly, a cluster of Shadows streaked towards them. Aerith lifted her staff, but Shadow was already there—a quick spin, a mid-air twist, his heel blazing with condensed Chaos as he dropped into them. The creatures scattered like minnows before a diving hawk; the last tried to flee and met a gentle tap from Aerith's staff that unmade it without ceremony.
"That's the square finished," Aerith said, checking each corner out of habit. The lamps seemed brighter now that the golden eyes were gone. "The Waterways are this way." She nodded towards the arched passage. "Leon will be waiting. I'm sure he'd love to train with you."
Shadow gave a short nod, eyes still scanning the rooftops. "Good. I could do with a real fight."
Aerith smiled faintly. "You mean a spar."
He huffed, already starting to walk. "Call it what you will. I just need to let off a bit more steam before the Keybearer and Sonic arrive."
"…Shadow," Aerith called after him.
He paused mid-step, half-turning. "Yes?"
"I'm thankful you're here," she said gently. "To help us."
He held her gaze for a moment—long enough for the words to settle—then gave a single, silent nod. No flourish, no reply. Just quiet acknowledgement.
Aerith smiled and moved to join him, her footsteps soft beside his as they made for the archway.
The streets behind them fell still once more. Only the clock ticked above the roofs, its sound carrying through the night.
As they walked, Shadow's eyes lifted to the stars again. "Maria… you'd like her," he thought. "That same light. That same unshakable kindness."
Yet beyond the stars, something else tugged—that faint, persistent pulse, like a voice carried across the void of the lanes.
"I will find you," he told it silently. "I don't know who you are or why you're calling, but I'll find you." His stride tightened, eyes focused ahead. "It's what Maria would want."
Notes:
And that's it — the Remaster of Venice (House of the Dead 2) is finally complete!
I hope you've all enjoyed this arc, especially if you remember the original version. Was there anything that stood out to you this time around, or something you loved from the first telling? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Honestly, I didn't set out to make it six parts — but the more I worked on improving the original, the more it felt like it needed that extra room to breathe. The story deserved to be fleshed out properly, especially with new scenes like Shadow's arrival in Traverse Town and the added emotional weight throughout.
You might've also noticed a few nods to the wider Blue Blur Saga sprinkled here and there — and that little green light Sora saw… well, that might just become something important down the road. I'll leave it at that for now.
Goldman's cryptic to Sora... oh now that's interesting!
Shadow sensing "someone calling to him" is another hint for those following the larger continuity. If you know… you know.
I was thinking recently about how the Saga really has two main roads: Sonic's and Shadow's. Sonic's story is the one we're following here, leading into Sonic Chain of Generations Re:MiX and KH II: Final Mix Blue Blur Edition, plus Sonic Colors: Heartless Horizon. Shadow's road, meanwhile, begins in Shadows of the Past and Shadow x Aqua: Chain of Generations Re:MiX, with his perspective weaving through 358/2 Days later on. And, of course, there's a certain blue-haired Keyblade Master who ties their paths together in ways that'll pay off soon.
I'm genuinely glad to be revisiting and remastering the older chapters. The original version of this story will always mean a lot to me — but reading it back now, some of those early chapters make me cringe (as most of us do when looking back at our older work). Still, it's been two years since the original release — so, happy second birthday to the saga! Never thought it blow up in popularity.
Thank you all so much for the continued support. It really means the world. Whether you're a new reader discovering the Blue Blur Saga for the first time, or a returning fan eager to see this remaster succeed, I appreciate you being along for the ride.
Next up: Jiminy's Journal, plus one or two transition scenes to move our heroes toward the next arc. New content after the journal will drop late October or early November, depending on when I wrap up a few other projects first.
Thanks again for reading and sticking with this journey — see you in the next one!
Chapter 15: Jiminy's Journal - Città Morta di Venezia (Venice)
Summary:
Jiminy's Journal for Città Morta di Venezia (Venice) and a scene with Maleficent and her followers.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
[Collection Room (File Select) - Sonic Generations starts playing]
Jiminy's Journal
Chronicles:
Città Morta di Venezia (Venice)
Part 1:
Gosh, what a landing! After a little cockpit disagreement, Sora, Donald, Goofy, Sonic, and yours truly crash-landed smack-dab in the middle of a ghost town called Venice!
While Sora and Sonic ended up elsewhere, Donald, Goofy, and I met a brave pair of agents from an organization called the AMS — Amy Crystal and Harry Harris — already fighting back against a swarm of strange creatures called "Davids." At first, we thought they were zombies, but Harry said they're something worse: "controlled mutations, purpose-built for chaos"!
Sure feels like this "City of the Dead" has more secrets buried under its stones than we bargained for. Better keep my pen sharp — we've only just begun!
Part 2:
Boy, this world just gets creepier by the minute!
While Donald, Goofy, and I teamed up with Amy and Harry, Sora and Sonic were busy making some new friends of their own—AMS agents James Taylor and Gary Stewart. From what I was told that first meeting was one big brawl against Heartless, Davids and Steves.
Sora even pulled off a new spell and Sonic, well, still managed to make it look cool. Together with James and Gary, they fought their way to an old library and found the missing AMS leader, Agent G, safe and sound (thanks to Sora and his Potion, no less!).
Meanwhile, our team handled a street-full of enemies with Goofy's shield, Donald's magic, and the AMS's marksmanship. Amy and Harry told us this all traces back to a man named Caleb Goldman, a financial backer with a twisted idea called "Genome Theory." Apparently, he's the one stirring up the chaos—and he's holed up in the old Colosseum.
I get the feeling things are only going to get scarier from here.
Part 3:
What a fright this world keeps throwing at us!
According to Sora and Sonic, their march towards the Colosseum turned into an all-out war zone when an imp called Zeal and a hulking headless monster named Kuarl—together known as Judgment attacked!
Sora fought bravely, even unlocking some strange new surge of power the others called Berserk. Sonic, of course, couldn't resist showing off his speed—and sense of humour, even in the middle of danger! Thanks to teamwork with the AMS agents G, James, and Gary, they managed to destroy both monsters and free another trapped Heart.
Meanwhile, the AMS believe the villain Caleb Goldman is preparing something terrible inside the Colosseum. Sounds like the final act of this Venetian nightmare is about to begin!
Part 4:
At long last — the gang's back together!
After fighting through Venice's haunted streets, Sora and Sonic finally reunited with Donald, Goofy, and yours truly right outside the Colosseum. You'd think that'd be a happy moment… and it was, until Sora and Donald started arguing again! Gosh, some habits are harder to shake off than the Heartless!
Inside the Colosseum, we found a mysterious creature called a Moogle, running a cozy little shop right in the middle of the Colosseum halls! Don't ask me how — apparently even darkness needs a coffee break.
Sonic got himself a pair of Light Speed Shoes, Donald picked up a shiny new Morning Star, and Goofy found the Stout Shield. (Poor Sora… no upgrades this time, but his heart's still in it!)
Part 5:
We finally reached the Colosseum Arena… though I wish we hadn't!
The place was falling apart, and even the air felt haunted. Sure enough, that dreadful Caleb Goldman appeared on a giant screen, gloating like he owned the place. Before we could even boo him, he sent out his latest creation—a hulking brute called Type-205 'Strength!'
What a battle! Sora, Donald, Goofy, Sonic, and the AMS agents fought side-by-side against waves of Heartless hybrids and that chainsaw-swinging monster. Sonic showed off a new technique called Cyloop, Donald surprised us with Aero, and—get this—Sora learned Cure right in the middle of the fight! Talk about thinking on your feet!
Together they brought the creature down and earned themselves an A-Rank victory! (Not that Donald agreed with the scoring…) But just as the dust settled, Goldman promised there's something even worse pulling the strings— "The Emperor."
If that name doesn't sound ominous, I don't know what does.
Part 6:
Well, I may not have been on that rooftop myself—thank goodness! —but the stories I heard afterward were enough to make even a brave cricket's legs shake!
While I stayed behind with G and the other AMS agents, Sora, Sonic, Donald, Goofy, James, and Gary stormed Caleb Goldman's building. Up there, through thunder and rain, they faced his final creation—the Emperor, a creature born from both science and darkness. What a battle it must've been! Sonic's new "Light Speed Attack" and Sora's quick thinking with his healing spells turned the tide, and together they shattered the Emperor's core and destroyed it!
Goldman himself vanished soon after—no body, no trace, just one last "So long, friends…" G says that probably means trouble for later, but at least for now Venice is safe. Sora sealed another strange lock, Sonic recovered the blue Chaos Emerald, and G even gave Sora a new Keychain which formed a new Keyblade he called Redemption's Echo—how fitting!
Before we left, the AMS confirmed they knew we weren't exactly locals! Lucky for us, they've handled "world travellers" before and kindly offered us a discreet ride off-world. Talk about good hosts!
So ends our stay in the "City of the Dead." The canals are quiet again, the rain has finally eased, and my journal's pages are soaked but full. Here's hoping the next world is a little less… well, undead!
Character Profiles
Agent G
Voiced by: Will Sierra
A calm, sharp-eyed senior agent from the AMS with nerves steadier than a metronome. G never wastes words or bullets — he studies every fight like a puzzle and always seems one step ahead. He treats even newcomers as equals once they've proven they can hold their own.
First appeared blasting through the Curien Mansion alongside Thomas Rogan in the original arcade game The House of the Dead (1996).
James Taylor
Voiced by: Matthew Mercer
A veteran AMS operative who's seen it all and still keeps his aim steady. James is methodical, disciplined, and usually paired with Gary Stewart. When the chaos starts, he's the one who keeps the mission on course.
First appeared in The House of the Dead 2 (1998).
Gary Stewart
Voiced by: Yuri Lowenthal
A new AMS field agent with sharp reflexes and a sharper sense of humour. Gary's the quicker shot and looser talker of his duo with James, but when the mission's on the line, he's all business. Loyal, clever, and never afraid to dive headfirst into danger—especially if someone else needs a hand.
First appeared in The House of the Dead 2 (1998).
Harry Harris
Voiced by: Ray Chase
A seasoned AMS agent with a dry wit and shades that never come off — day, night, or zombie apocalypse. Harry's the dependable middle ground between G's calm precision and Gary's quick fire, always keeping his cool no matter how wild things get.
First appeared in The House of the Dead 2 (1998).
Amy Crystal
Voiced by: Alix Wilton Regan
An AMS agent with nerves of steel and a heart to match. Sharp-eyed, quick-thinking, and always professional under pressure, Amy brings balance to every operation she joins. Whether she's holding the line or backing up her team, she never misses her mark — or her chance to deliver a cool line.
First appeared in The House of the Dead 2 (1998).
Caleb Goldman
Voiced by: Stephen Weyte
A corporate messiah with a spreadsheet for a soul. Goldman talks about the "life cycle of nature" like it's a quarterly report—cold, clinical, and convinced he's right. He funds nightmares, builds tyrants, and watches the world like a lab mouse. He's been recently reported missing—and between you and me, I've got a bad feeling he won't stay gone. If there's a shadowy rooftop, a bigger experiment, or a door better left shut… that's where he'll pop up.
First appeared in The House of the Dead 2 (1998), delivering that famously flat, oddly unforgettable monotone—so bland it looped all the way back to iconic.
Special Entries:
Doctor Roy Curien
A genius who aimed his microscope at the soul. From what I've gathered from G and the AMS, Dr. Curien was the mind behind the Curien Mansion nightmare—obsessed with breaking the "limits" of life and death until the limits broke back.
First appeared in The House of the Dead (1996), where his "research" opened the door for just about every nightmare that followed.
Thomas Rogen
G's original partner and the AMS's "kick-the-door-in" gold standard. From G's accounts, Rogan's the kind of ace who clears a hallway before most folks finish a sentence—people first, rulebook second.
First appeared in The House of the Dead (1996), storming the Curien Mansion shoulder-to-shoulder with G.
Sophie Richards
Thomas Rogan's fiancée and the calm at the centre of the Curien storm. A DBR Corporation researcher caught in the outbreak, Sophie kept civilians moving, left breadcrumbs for rescue, and never lost her nerve. According to G, she pulled through and later became the heart of Rogan's little family.
First appeared in The House of the Dead (1996).
Papa Caesar
A crime lord with grindhouse flair and a talent for turning bad ideas into biohazards. According to G, Papa Caesar was his first real migraine nearly a decade ago—slick attire, slicker lies, and a body count that still keeps paperwork busy. That case is also when G first hinted he'd met a "world traveller or two." (Golly… wonder who that could've been?)
He appeared in The House of the Dead: Overkill (2009).
The Emperor
Goldman's "final answer." A towering bio-construct bound to darkness and ringed by guardian orbs. The Emperor fights like a bad memory—projecting echoes of past foes to rattle your nerves—while those orbiters swat away anything that isn't clever or coordinated. Break its shields, crack the core, and the "ruler" goes right back to stardust.
First appeared in The House of the Dead 2 (1998).
The Magician
Curien's pride—and his last mistake. Codenamed Type-0 "Magician," this floating terror carved the air with flaming blades and, when the chips were down, turned on its maker. According to G, he and Thomas Rogan put it down in the Curien Mansion… right after it killed Dr. Curien himself.
First appeared in The House of the Dead (1996) as the final boss.
From what G disclosed, it was destroyed—but that doesn't always mean gone. If darkness ever finds a template—data, tissue, or just a bad idea with teeth—well, I wouldn't be surprised if that silhouette flickers back to life. (Note to self: if we ever return to help the AMS, keep an eye out—some foes love encores.)
Chaos Emeralds Found: 2 / 7
Master Emerald Shards Found: 2
Ansem Reports Found: 0
[Collection Room (File Select) - Sonic Generations stops playing]
[Villains of a Sort - Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Re:MiX starts playing]
Maleficent's Domain
The dark chamber of Maleficent's domain was vast and circular. On a far stone wall stood the emblem of the Heartless, etched in gold and darkness.
Jafar spoke first, his tone smooth but laced with curiosity. "Tell me, Maleficent… what truly drew the Heartless to that world?"
"Goldman's own lust for dominion," she replied coolly. "I warned him—darkness, once stirred, cannot be easily tamed."
Hades gave a bark of laughter, small embers flicking from his blue flame. "Heh, lady, you warned him. Heck… I could've warned him! The guy was already dead inside. And believe me, I know dead." He waved dismissively. "But come on—splicing monsters and then tossing the Heartless into the mix? Classic overachiever complex."
"Indeed," Maleficent murmured. "The fool thought himself a God and found only failure."
"Pfft, sounds like half the guys I've hired," Hades muttered, rolling his eyes.
A swirl of light shimmered into the air. Reala descended gracefully, arms crossed and expression sharp. "The fool's dreams were as hollow as his voice," he said smoothly. "Yet I must wonder… where the darkness dragged him in the end."
"Maybe to a long nap," Hades deadpanned, looking to the Nightmaren. "With a real killer dream."
Reala's eyes narrowed, turning his gaze. "Amusing..."
"Hey, I try," Hades replied with a smirk.
The Nightmaren shook his head and moved closer to Maleficent, his tone softening with a theatrical reverence. "The man hid his true ambitions from us. Even from you, my lady. He sought to harness darkness for himself… as I fear Eggman will, given time."
"Sparkles has a point," Hades conceded.
"Do not call me that!" Reala hissed through his teeth, turning back with a scowl.
"Yeah, sorry, force of habit," Hades said, grinning mischievously. "You shimmer; you get nicknames. That's the rule."
Reala only groaned at the remark, clearly showing the Lord of the Underworld was truly getting under his skin.
Jafar stroked his twisted goatee, amused. "The Doctor is clever—perhaps too clever. More cunning than Goldman, I'd wager."
Maleficent looked across the chamber, her gaze like iced daggers. "Cunning men are predictable," she said simply. "But desperation makes them useful." She began to pace slowly around the glowing green sigil in the middle of the room, each step measured. "I granted Eggman access to the castle's lower levels. He claims he can restore a war machine capable of conquering a world in a single night."
Hades arched an eyebrow, watching her walk past. "Guy's confident. I'll give him that."
"Confidence," Maleficent replied cooly, "is only dangerous when paired with results. For now, let him build. The next world the Keybearer reaches will test him… and our Doctor alike."
"A clever trap," Jafar mused. "If the child falters, the rest of his allies will follow."
"Precisely," Maleficent said with quiet satisfaction.
"Oh, speaking of tests," Hades interrupted, snapping his fingers. "I gotta jet—Underworld appointment. Got a brooding swordsman and a new recruit, and, oh boy—" he made finger quotes "—a real 'knucklehead,' if you catch my drift."
"Ah," Maleficent's interest flickered, "the guardian?"
"That's the one," Hades said with a grin full of sharp teeth, pointing at her. "He's a real short fuse, but plenty of muscle for his size—perfect for my little hero problem back home. And that wanderer with the blonde hair? Total mood piece. Ugh." He made a dramatic groan, placing a hand on his forehead. "All that talk about finding his light. Makes me want to vomit."
Maleficent's smirk returned, dark and deliberate. "Do as you please, Hades. But remember—our goals must align, not collide."
"Relax," he said, waving her off. "You've got your plan; I've got my show."
Maleficent nodded and then turned her back towards the villains, looking towards the dark shadows of the exit. "Reala," she commanded firmly. "Come. We must examine the girl and the Mobian. I will confirm for myself whether their hearts are as pure as the legends claim."
Reala bowed low, voice a silken purr. "As you wish, my Mistress of Evil." He then levitated after her, a red streak vanishing into the dark archway.
When the echoes faded and the two disappeared into the shadows, Jafar and Hades exchanged identical, unimpressed looks.
"…What a kiss ass," Hades muttered flatly, eyes half closed.
"Utterly insufferable," Jafar agreed lowly.
"Still…" Hades murmured, giving a off a wicked smirk, "you gotta hand it to him—he knows how to pick a boss."
Notes:
Jiminy's Journal Complete!
Hope you enjoyed the House of the Dead 2 Arc and the idea of a SEGA world crossing into the Kingdom Hearts continuity — especially if this was your first time seeing it in action! (And if you're new… stick around. There's plenty more where that came from later.)
Had some fun experimenting with hypothetical voice actors for the AMS team — James, Gary, Harry, and Amy — just to help bring them to life between the pages.
Oh, and before I forget: Sonic's "Light Speed Attack" and his "Ready… Go!" call-out are straight from the Sonic Adventure series, but the move's motion and style were inspired by Super Mario Bros Z — a little love letter to that legendary fan series I'd still love to see make a comeback someday.
Looks like Eggman is about to make his presence known in the next arc. Expect a few surprises when we roll into the next chapters — coming November if all goes to plan.
If you're curious to see how this all originally played out, the original version of the story is still available for comparison.
That's all for now — thanks, everyone, for reading and supporting the saga!
Chapter 16: Traverse Town: Second Visit – Part 1: Rivals Reunited
Summary:
Our heroes return to Traverse Town and are needing a new Gummi Shop. However, Tails informs the group that Shadow has arrived. How will Sora, Donald, and Goofy get on with the Ultimate Lifeform?
Chapter Text
[Traverse Town – Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMiX plays]
The first breath of Traverse Town's air hit like home.
After what felt like hours of travelling from Venice, the heroes stepped through the world gate into the comforting glow of the First District. The drizzle and chill of the dead city were gone—replaced by warm lamplight, the soft hum of neon signs, and a kind of peace only Traverse Town could offer… at least when the Heartless weren't causing trouble.
Our heroes stood in the centre of the plaza, between the two tall gas lamps, the glow washing over them like a quiet welcome back.
Sora exhaled softly, sheer relief in his tone. "It feels good to be back!"
"Man, you said it," Sonic replied, stretching with a grin. "Warm lights, no rain, no monsters built by a madman—yeah, we're so back in the realm of the living. "He glanced towards the café, his eyes then drifting up to the stairway leading to Cid's Accessory Shop before landing on the ever-trusty postbox gleaming nearby. "And not a chainsaw or a single David in sight. I'm calling that a win."
"…For now," Donald muttered grimly.
Sonic groaned good-naturedly, raising a brow. "Always gotta bring the storm cloud, huh, Donnie? Try a little optimism once in a while—it won't kill ya."
"WAK! I am optimistic!" Donald shot back in protest.
"Not with that attitude, dude," Sonic smirked, wagging a gloved finger at him.
The duck folded his arms and grumbled under his breath earning a small, amused exhale from both Sonic and Sora.
Goofy chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Awh, shucks. Donald's just cranky he couldn't get that nap on the way here."
"That's because there was too much noise!" Donald snapped, bouncing in frustration as his arms flailed. He finally stopped, feathers still ruffled, but his voice stayed sharp. "That AMS agent kept asking a million questions! I thought G said there was no paperwork!"
Sora tried—and failed—to stifle a laugh. "I didn't see any paperwork."
Donald threw up his hands, exasperated. "Yeah, well, there might as well have been!" He folded his arms with a deep frown. "Lousy bureaucrats."
"Relax, pal. We'll send a complaint to G later," Sonic chuckled, one hand on his hip while the other gestured casually. "Maybe they'll give us frequent-flyer points or somethin'."
That earned a snicker from Sora and a hearty laugh from Goofy. Even Donald's scowl cracked into a reluctant grin.
"Alright," Sora said, shaking his head as he turned towards the stairs. He pointed up to the glowing sign of Cid's shop. "Let's check in with Cid—and maybe Tails, if he's around. We'll need a new Gummi Ship."
"Good call, Sora" Sonic agreed with a nod. "We need to get moving."
"Let's hope Cid's got somethin' fast," Goofy added cheerfully as they started to move.
"And quiet," Donald grumbled, annoyance still in his tone. "No more agents!"
Sonic shot him a grin. "No promises."
Donald just huffed, feathers puffing slightly.
"We should also talk to Leon and the others," Sora added thoughtfully, the image of the Keyblade acting strangely by the Doorknob in Wonderland—and again at the Colosseum gate in Venice—still fresh in his mind. "Especially with how it's been reacting lately."
"Good idea, pal!" Goofy nodded as they walked. "I'm sure they'll have the answers we need."
Sonic folded his arms, brow creasing as he stared ahead. "Still… kinda feels like it's something they forgot to mention."
"Huh?" Sora turned to him. "What makes you say that, Sonic?"
Sonic unfolded his arms and tapped the side of his head lightly. "Well, it sounds like Keyblade 101, y'know? Keyblade acts weird, then makes a loud locking noise… feels like something that'd be on page one of the instruction manual." His quills bobbed subtly with a shrug. "But hey, we did have a lot going on when we left here the first time."
Sora nodded slowly. "True…"
They climbed the final steps only to spot Tails and Yuffie coming out of the Accessory shop, both laden with supplies. Tails had planks of wood in his arm and a tool belt strapped around his waist, while Yuffie carried a pair of bulging canvas bags that looked heavy but didn't seem to slow her down.
"Hey!" Sora called, raising a hand waving.
The two paused, their faces lit up instantly.
"Guys!" Tails beamed, nearly dropping the wood in excitement. "You're here!"
"Welcome back!" Yuffie chimed, dropping her bags with a grin.
"Yo, Tails. Yuffie." Sonic gave them both a friendly nod, then gestured at the gear they were holding. "What's all this? You redecorating the district or something?"
"Actually… I'm setting up my new workshop!" Tails said proudly, tails twirling in sync behind him.
"That's awesome, little bro!" Sonic exclaimed, beaming a smile.
"A new workshop. huh?" Donald echoed, tilting his head.
"Yeah! A proper place to tinker and invent in peace—just like back home in the Mystic Ruins," the fox explained, adjusting his grip on the planks. "And who knows what kind of gizmos or upgrades you'll need next on this wild adventure of yours?"
Sonic's green eyes gleamed, smile widening. "Now that sounds like a plan." He lifted his wrist, showing off the bracelet. "This thing could use a tune-up. Fire's nice and all, but I could do with some other elements to charge up my attacks."
"I think Sonic's jealous Sora and Donald can use Blizzard and Thunder magic," Goofy said warmly.
"I'm not jealous, Goofy…" Sonic deadpanned—though the slight brightening of his features betrayed him. "Just think it'd be kinda cool to try something new."
"He's jealous…" Donald snickered, elbowing Sora.
"Maybe…" Sora laughed, rubbing the back of his head.
"Again… not jealous," Sonic sighed, eyes half-lidded as he shot them a look. Then he exhaled and turned back to Tails. "Think you can help me out, buddy?"
"I'd be happy to take a look when I'm free, Sonic," Tails said with a smile—though it faltered as he took in their faces properly. "Whoa… hey, you guys okay? You look like you've been through… well, something."
Yuffie leaned in, hands on her hips, narrowing her eyes playfully as she inspected the group. "Yeah, you all look wiped. Long trip or what?"
"You could say that…" Sonic sighed, rubbing the back of his head.
"Our Gummi Ship is well…uh…" Goofy started.
"—Is a total write-off," Jiminy finished, hopping up onto Goofy's shoulder with perfect timing.
"Wait, what?" Yuffie blinked, eyes wide.
"How?" Tails asked, bewildered.
"Meh, long story short," Sonic said, leaning casually on his heels, "we crash-landed on a world crawling with not just Heartless… but zombies."
"Zombies?!" Yuffie's eyes went wide.
"No way!" Tails gasped in surprise.
"Controlled mutations, actually," Donald corrected, recalling what Harry had told him, Goofy, and Jiminy. "But yeah, pretty much zombies."
"Geez," Yuffie muttered, brows raised. "And I thought Traverse Town got weird sometimes."
"Okay… I'm really glad you're all okay." Tails readjusted the planks, worry flickering in his eyes. "But… how did you get back?"
"Some agents we helped out gave us a ride," Sora replied. He then shot Donald a teasing grin. "Though someone didn't exactly enjoy it."
Donald threw up his arms, exasperated. "WAK! There were too many questions! I thought there was no paperwork—hah! They were practically writing a book on us!"
Sonic snorted, waving a dismissive hand. "Relax, Donnie. We'll just send them that complaint later, remember."
"We better!"
"Agents…?" Tails tilted his head, Yuffie did the same. "What about the World Order? Don't they follow it?"
"The AMS already know about World Travellers," Sonic said, folding his arms. Then, with a sidelong grin towards Donald, he added, "after we had to keep quiet about that 'stupid rule,' they figured us out anyway."
"It's not stupid, it's important!" Donald barked, feathers ruffling as he started hopping in place. "They're just… clued up, that's all!"
"Sure…" Sonic raised both hands in mock surrender, smirking. "Whatever you say, pal…"
Donald muttered under his breath about Sonic being a "blue palooka," which earned an easy laugh from Sora, Goofy, and even Yuffie. Tails chuckled too, doing his best to keep the planks of wood balanced in his arms.
"So, where were you guys headed before we crossed paths?" Yuffie asked, still giggling.
"We were actually coming to see Cid—or you, Tails," Sora said once he'd caught his breath. "We need a new ship."
Tails nodded, though his expression turned sheepish as he shifted the lumber in his arms. "I'd love to help, Sora, but I'm knee-deep setting up my new place." He jerked his head towards the doors of the Accessory Shop behind him. "Besides, Cid told me he wanted some time alone with his Gummi Blocks… and his tea."
"Tea?" Sora echoed, puzzled.
"Seriously?" Sonic added, brow rising.
Yuffie let out an exaggerated groan, her whole face scrunching like someone recalling a battlefield wound. "Trust me… don't disturb him when it comes to his tea breaks." She tilted her head towards the night sky, shaking it as if mourning her past self. "I learned that the hard way."
"Hard way?" Sonic asked, folding his arms and leaning on one hip. One brow arched, curious but amused.
"Don't ask," Yuffie shot back flatly, but the tiny twitch at the corner of her eye and the haunted glaze crossing her face said everything.
Sora, Donald, Goofy, Jiminy, and even Sonic paused… all of them wearing the same wide-eyed 'oh no' expression.
"…Speaking of the hard way," Tails said quickly, shifting the conversation before Yuffie relived the trauma. His tone dropped as he met Sonic's gaze. "Sonic… Shadow's here."
"What, really?!" Sonic blurted, bouncing a full inch off the ground, surprise snapping through him like a spark.
"Shadow?" Sora repeated, interest lighting up his whole face as he turned towards the hedgehog. "Wait, that's your friend from your world, right?"
"Yeah…" Sonic admitted, rubbing the back of his neck with a small, crooked laugh. "Well, more like a rival. But he cares… when he wants to."
"Ha, he sounds like Riku," Sora said softly, the corners of his mouth lifting with something equal parts fond and aching. "We're friends, but rivals too."
"Complicated guy, I bet?" Sonic guessed, leaning in with a knowing tilt of his head.
"He can be," Sora admitted with a faint, warm smile. "Especially when we were sparring… or racing. But… he's my best friend." His eyes drifted upward towards the stars, voice growing quieter. "I know Riku's still out there. Kairi too."
"They sure are, pal," Sonic said, his tone gentler now, a comforting smile aimed up at the boy. "Shadow and I aren't best pals, but the respect's there. Even when we butt heads."
"Gawrsh, that's great though—" Goofy started, before his eyebrows suddenly jumped. "Wait—buttin' heads?"
Sonic smirked, amused. "We're rivals, big guy. Remember."
"Ohhh right… hyuck," Goofy chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck.
Donald groaned dramatically, arms crossing. "Some friendship."
"It's complicated, Donnie," Sonic shrugged, then placed his hands on his hips, looking back to Tails. "But still, it's good to know another of our crew from back home has been seen."
"Wait… another been seen?" Tails asked, looking between the group. "You found someone else?"
"Amy…" Sonic's voice dropped, the easy grin fading into quiet concern. He exhaled slowly, eyes lowering to the ground. "But she's missing…"
"Oh…" Tails murmured, his twin tails falling still.
"I hope she's okay," Yuffie added softly, her usual spark dimming into genuine worry.
"Me too, Yuffie," Sonic said, straightening. His tone firmed, a determined glint in his green eyes as he forced the confidence back into his voice. "But she's strong. I know she'll pull through." He crossed his arms, head tilting back towards Tails. "Anyway, let's not get down in the dumps for now. Where's Shadow, Tails?"
"It would be great to meet him," Jiminy said brightly, hopping high on Goofy's shoulder, journal raised like a fan eager to capture a celebrity's autograph. "I could use a fresh entry or two!"
"He's with Aerith and Leon down in the caverns," Yuffie revealed.
"Caverns?" Donald echoed, brow furrowed.
"You know… the channel behind the hotel in the Second District?" Yuffie clarified, making a loose circular gesture with both hands. "Remember?"
Sora blinked, looking between his friends. They all shrugged in perfect, equally clueless unison.
"I know the hotel," Goofy said, scratching his head, "but I don't remember seein' no channel."
"Me neither," Donald added.
"Sorry, pal," Sonic said to Sora, raising both gloved hands with an apologetic shrug. "I'm drawing' a blank here."
"Uh…" Sora murmured, rubbing his chin sheepishly. "Can you maybe show us, Yuffie?"
Yuffie and Tails exchanged a knowing look—then burst into laughter at Sora's hopeless expression. The boy turned red and rubbed the back of his head, trying to hide the embarrassed smile tugging at his lips.
"Fine, fine—just this once," Yuffie teased, jabbing a finger in Sora's direction. "Got it?"
"Got it," Sora said, relieved, flashing a grateful smile.
"Thanks a bunch, Yuffie," Goofy added cheerfully.
Yuffie flashed a bright grin, dropping her arm. "No problemo!"
"I'll stay back and finish setting up the workshop," Tails said, hefting the wood in his arms again. "You guys go have your big meeting with Shadow." He looked to Yuffie. "Mind coming back to lend a hand after you drop them off?"
Yuffie snapped a playful salute, cheeks lifting in a cheeky grin. "Aye aye, captain!"
Sora perked up with excitement, Donald puffed out his chest in anticipation, Goofy grinned wide and eager, and Jiminy straightened his collar, practically vibrating at the thought of documenting the mysterious hedgehog.
"Thanks, guys," Sonic said, giving both Tails and Yuffie a thumbs-up. Then he turned fully to the ninja, sweeping one hand outward with a wide grin. "Lead the way, Yuffie." His energy surged; he was practically bouncing in place. "Let's go see Mister Sunshine."
Yuffie snorted at the nickname and spun on her heel towards the archway leading into the Second District. "This way, heroes. Try to keep up."
UNDERGROUND CAVERN
The descent into Traverse Town's caverns was wet, lit only by cracked lanterns humming with dim light. Moisture clung to the stone walls, every footstep echoing like a dropped pebble in an empty well.
Ahead, the group could already hear voices—steady, low, echoing off the walls.
Leon and Shadow.
The two stood near the centre of the chamber. Leon's stance was calm, arms folded. Shadow's silhouette—sharp, rigid, unmistakable—cut through the dim like a sharp blade.
Aerith stood a step behind them, palms lightly folded, her gentle presence warming the cold, damp air around them.
Sora slowed as the figure came into full view.
Shadow looked a little like Sonic… but only in the way a storm cloud might resemble a soft breeze.
Black fur, deep as night, with blood-red stripes slicing down his sharp quills. Golden rings circled his wrists and ankles, restraints more than accessories, humming like power limiters. And his air shoes hissed faintly, a pulsing energy Sora couldn't quite place.
He looked fast, dangerous, and moody.
Sora swallowed hard. "O-okay… yeah. This guy is nothing like Sonic."
Where Sonic carried light with him, warmth, optimism, that breezy confidence that made every adventure feel safer, Shadow radiated something entirely different.
The air felt heavier around him, like stepping too close to a raging fire. Even from a distance, Shadow's presence demanded caution.
One thing hit Sora instantly, he was in for a tough ride with this hedgehog.
"Better brace yourself, Sora," his inner thoughts warned. "This is a whole different wave… and you're gonna have to ride it."
Sonic, naturally, didn't hesitate for a second. As soon as he spotted the black-and-red figure, a grin stretched across his face—equal parts relief and mischief.
"Hey, Shadow!" he called, strolling forward with that trademark swagger. "Long time no see."
Shadow turned. Crimson eyes locked onto Sonic's with the intensity of a laser sight.
The dark hedgehog greeted him with single nod. "…Sonic. About time you got here."
"And I'm glad to see you're okay too… buddy," Sonic added teasingly, coming to a stop beside him.
"I'm not your buddy," Shadow replied flatly, not biting to Sonic's teasing comment.
"Fine. Rival. Frenemy. Grump-in-chief. Better?"
"…For now."
Sonic snorted, shaking his head with amusement. "Some things never change."
Shadow's response was the faintest hmpf as he crossed his arms tighter, posture sharpening to an almost perfect ninety-degree angle of annoyance.
Behind Sonic, Sora leaned towards Donald and Goofy, voice barely above a whisper. "He looks like Sonic but…."
"Grumpier?" Donald suggested immediately.
"Yeah… that." Sora nodded.
Shadow's ears twitched. His head turned slowly towards Sora.
The teen stiffened, shoulders lifting. Goofy straightened whilst Donald froze mid-blink. Jiminy tried to duck behind Goofy's neck, like someone avoiding a flying shoe.
Sonic cleared his throat loudly. "So anyway, how long have you been here?"
Leon stepped in before Shadow could retort, the hedgehog's frown deepening. "Shadow arrived not too long ago."
"I can answer for myself," Shadow muttered.
Leon exhaled through his nose, though Aerith gently stepped forward to soften the tension.
"He helped us with the Heartless," she said kindly. "Without him, the Districts would've been overrun."
"Really?" Sora asked, impressed.
"Mhm." Aerith nodded with a bright smile. "He's as strong as he looks."
"I did what needed to be done," Shadow said, tone cool as the cavern walls.
"That's Shadow," Sonic replied, hands on hips. "Acts cold, but deep down he—"
"It wasn't about caring," Shadow cut in sharply. "I needed an outlet. This situation we're in provided one."
"…Right, right. Got it," Sonic sighed.
"Gawrsh, he sure is intense," Goofy whispered.
"You said it," Donald added grimly.
Jiminy peeked out from Goofy's shoulder. "A real firecracker, that one…"
Shadow ignored them all and faced Sora directly. "Let's get to the point." His crimson gaze sharpened. "So, you're the Keyblade's chosen one?"
Sora blinked. "Wait… you know about the Keyblade?"
"It's a mythical weapon across many worlds," Shadow said with casual arrogance. "I'm familiar."
"Familiar how?" Donald pressed.
Before Shadow could answer, Sonic lifted a gloved hand. "Shadow's the Ultimate Lifeform. He comes with a lot of knowledge."
Shadow nodded, confirming, but shot Sonic an irritated glare. "Yes, but next time let me explain."
Sonic shrugged with a guilty smile. "Sorry."
Shadow muttered under his breath, "Blue buffoon."
The Blue Blur heard it and smirked anyway, shaking it off. Sora, Donald, and Goofy traded looks, somewhere between confused and awkwardly amused.
Leon and Aerith exchanged glances too—Aerith amused, Leon resigned. They'd clearly understood this dynamic already.
"I'm familiar with the Keyblade because I've heard stories," Shadow revealed.
"Stories?" Sora echoed, curiosity flickering across his face.
Shadow nodded but didn't dive deeper into it. There were more important issues to address. "I found something."
"Wait, you have?" Sora asked, perking up.
"Wait, wait, wait," Sonic cut in, raising both gloved hands. "Shadow, you're just gonna skip over the whole 'how you know about the Keyblade' part?" He shot his broody rival a look.
"Yes."
"Tch… way to be cryptic."
"I don't have time to go over everything," Shadow said firmly.
"Fine… then what did you find?" Sonic pressed.
"An Ansem Report."
Sora's eyes widened. "You did?"
"He did," Aerith confirmed with a firm nod. "Report Number Six."
"One down, twelve to go," Leon added flatly.
Goofy hung his head. "Gawrsh… we ain't found even one yet."
Donald groaned in frustration. "Don't remind us…"
Leon raised an eyebrow. "So that's a no?"
"Uh… yeah," Sora admitted, rubbing the back of his head. "A no."
Shadow crossed his arms again, unimpressed. "You're not searching hard enough."
"Oh come on, give us a break!" Sonic retorted. "We might not have found pages, but we did find two Chaos Emeralds and some Master Emerald shards!"
"Is that so… interesting," Shadow replied, intrigued—but giving nothing away.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Sonic asked, raising a brow.
Shadow lifted a gloved hand—and in a blink of red light, a brilliant Chaos Emerald flashed into existence.
Sora, Donald, and Goofy gasped in perfect unison: "WHOA!"
Sonic groaned loudly. "Oh, come on! Don't look so impressed—I can do that too, you know!"
"Yeah, but…" Sora said.
"He did it better," Donald muttered.
"Oh thanks!" Sonic threw up his hands. Even Leon cracked a subtle smirk; Aerith giggled behind her hand.
Shadow lowered the emerald, tone proud but collected. "As you can see, I found one as well."
"Oh we noticed," Sonic replied dryly. "Thanks for sharing with the group…"
Sora looked between them. "How did you do that?"
"Do what?" Shadow asked bluntly.
"You know… making it appear and disappear. Sonic never explained it."
"You never asked!" the blue hedgehog snapped back in annoyance.
Sora shrugged in return. Sonic facepalmed, dragging his hand down his face.
"This kid…" he muttered.
Donald leaned in. "So… was that magic?"
Shadow shook his head slowly. "Chaos energy. I can store the emerald in a pocket dimension the Heartless cannot reach."
"A pocket dimension?" Jiminy echoed in awe. "Fascinating!"
Shadow gave the cricket a small nod. "Chaos Control allows me to warp the emerald to and from safety."
"Golly…" Jiminy breathed. "That's one for the journal for sure."
Shadow's eyes drifted toward him. "…Journal?"
Jiminy perked up proudly on Goofy's shoulder. "Oh! I'm the Royal Chronicler!"
"And I'm the Royal Court Mage!" Donald declared, chest puffed, feathers flaring.
"Hyuck, and I'm the King's Captain!" Goofy added with a friendly wave.
"I don't need your résumés," Shadow responded flatly. "I was already informed about each of you."
Donald's feathers puffed like he'd been hit with static. "WAK! Well EXCUSE you!"
Goofy chuckled awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Gawrsh… tough crowd."
Jiminy leaned towards Goofy's eyeline. "Note to self: Shadow is not a people person."
Leon didn't say a word; he didn't need to. His slow exhale and raised brow said everything.
"Oh, I don't know…" Aerith said gently, tilting her head with a small smile. "He was perfectly polite with me."
Donald crossed his arms with a grumble. "Good for you…"
Shadow's head turned sharply, eyes narrowing. "What was that, duck?"
Donald froze, eyes widening. "Uh—nothing."
"That's what I thought."
Sonic dragged a hand down his face with a long, knowing sigh.
"Yep. That's the Ultimate Lifeform for ya," he moaned.
Sora stepped forward slightly, brow raised in curiosity as he looked at the emerald.
"Wait… Chaos Control? Can we go back to that? What is that exactly, Shadow?"
"How can I put this in terms your simple mind can actually grasp?" the brooding hedgehog remarked, voice so sharp it could've split stone. His gloved fingers tightened around the emerald, as if emphasising the point.
"Shadow!" Sonic snapped, baffled and throwing his arms wide. "Seriously? He asked a question, not for a roast!"
"Hmph…" Shadow huffed.
Sora blinked, taken aback. "Okay… wow," he sputtered, leaning back. He knew Shadow was intense, but that one hit like a slap.
Goofy winced and took a step back. "Gawrsh…"
Donald's feathers puffed instantly, temper flaring. "Wow, rude much—!"
"He's got a tongue like sandpaper, that one!" Jiminy said, tugging his hat lower.
Aerith's gentle smile faltered, replaced with a soft, concerned "oh my…" Her green eyes narrowed ever so slightly, the way they did whenever someone let their guard slip far too easily. She'd seen both sides of Shadow already, and this was clearly the thornier one.
Leon simply closed his eyes and exhaled slowly through his nose—the kind of long, disciplined breath of a man who'd dealt with far worse attitudes back when he was a young mercenary at Balamb Garden.
"Ignore his bluntness, guys," Sonic said quickly, raising both hands before the tension fully ignited. "He's always like this."
"Well, they're new to this, are they not?" Shadow replied, eyes sliding towards Sonic with unimpressed boredom.
Sonic tilted his head, lips pulling into a lopsided grin as he jabbed a thumb toward Sora, Donald, and Goofy. "Yeah, but could you explain it in a more, uh… what's the word?" He wiggled his gloved fingers as if trying to pluck it out of the air.
"Simpler?" Donald offered flatly, one brow arched.
"Right—simpler!" Sonic agreed, snapping his fingers and pointing at the duck. "Like Donnie said."
Leon turned his head towards Shadow, arms still folded tightly. "You may need to keep it simple. Chaos Control is a new concept to them."
Sora blinked in surprise, looking to the man. "Wait—you know about it, Leon?"
"Shadow explained it to us earlier," he revealed. Aerith nodded in agreement beside him as Leon continued, "He gave us an informative explanation. But… it's complicated. It's best to keep it straightforward."
Shadow exhaled through his nose—half sigh, half growl. "Fine. I'll dumb it down for them."
Sora's shoulders stiffened; Donald's beak dropped open in offence; Goofy winced, and Jiminy twitched hard enough his pencil nearly snapped against the page of his tiny journal.
"…Oh boy…" Sonic sighed under his breath. He had to intervene before the mood could curdle completely, folding his arms with an exasperated huff, he turned towards Shadow. "You know, for the 'Ultimate Lifeform,' you sure do underestimate people…"
Shadow didn't waver. He turned fully, crimson eyes staring back. "I speak the truth, Sonic. I don't sugarcoat things for fragile egos."
The two hedgehogs stood nearly nose-to-nose, sparks practically jumping between them like two magnets trying not to attract. The rest of the cavern fell into an awkward silence, their argument echoing off the walls.
Aerith leaned towards Leon, whispering behind her hand, "…Shadow sure is stubborn."
"Hmm," Leon murmured back, amusement touching his normally flat tone, "it doesn't help that Sonic is just as headstrong."
Goofy rubbed the back of his neck. "Gee, uh… fellas? Could we get back on topic, please?"
Sonic and Shadow both snapped their gaze towards him—one annoyed, one unimpressed, but Goofy's earnest expression deflated the tension enough for progress.
"Yeah, Shadow," Sonic teased, arms spread in mock innocence. "We're all waiting."
"Idiot. I was about to explain the simpler explanation of what Chaos Control is… until you decided to keep talking," Shadow replied, tone clipped and acidic.
Sora stepped forward, hands half-raised in exasperation. "Shadow, could you please explain it?"
With a loud exhale, Shadow finally relented. "Okay," he began, trying to arrange the metaphor in his head. "Chaos Control is like… picture a remote control for a TV, right? You press a button and flip through channels."
"Yeah…" Sora nodded, leaning in slightly.
"Well, Chaos Control is kind of like that, but instead of channels, I'm shifting through time and space. I focus on where I want to go, tap into the power of the Chaos Emerald… and I'm there. Simple enough for you?"
Goofy's eyes widened. "Wow, that's incredible."
"Sounds rather convenient," Donald added with crossed arms.
"It would be… if Chaos Control was functioning properly," Shadow said, irritation threading his voice.
Sora's concern flared. "What's wrong with Chaos Control?"
Shadow's expression darkened as he continued. "Chaos Control is unstable. The Master Emerald's shattering likely disrupted its energy flow. And the darkness spreading across the worlds is interfering with Chaos Energy."
Aerith's hands clasped in worry. "Which means?"
"My link to Chaos Energy has weakened," Shadow said grimly. "The darkness is blocking it."
Sonic's smirk faded, seriousness lining his face. "So… no chance of you warping off to catch whoever caused this mess?"
"No." Shadow replied, his jaw tightening. He exhaled slowly — barely audible but loaded with irritation.
Sora's concern sharpened. "Yeah, but what does that really mean?"
Shadow's eyes narrowed, turning to the teen. "Chaos Control's instability prevents me from traversing worlds safely," he said grimly. With a flick of his wrist, the red Chaos Emerald vanished in a shimmer of light. "I can only use it in small bursts."
"Dang…" Sonic breathed out, shoulders dropping. "So… you can't warp between worlds anymore."
"No." Shadow corrected, tone clipped. "Not safely anyway."
Sonic straightened, forcing optimism back into the air as the tension thickened around the group. "Okay — but look on the bright side, we've got three of the seven emeralds now."
Shadow nodded once, turning to him fully. "Indeed. The others are still out there. But without long-distance teleportation, our search becomes harder. And longer."
"You're right…" Sonic sighed, hands landing on his hips.
Shadow didn't miss a beat. "I'm hardly ever wrong."
Sonic groaned. "Debatable."
Before the two could bicker like an old married couple again, Leon stepped in and shifted the conversation back to Sora. "So, Sora — why did you return to Traverse Town? What have you found?"
Sora drew a breath, trying to untangle the uncertainty swirling in his mind.
"The Keyblade's been acting strangely when we're near… weird-looking Keyholes."
"Gawrsh, he's right," Goofy added, nodding emphatically. "It makes a big loud sound when Sora locks 'em up tight."
"Any idea what's going on?" Donald asked.
"The worlds are being locked," Aerith chimed, her voice warm but serious. "And that's a very good thing."
"What do you mean?" Sora asked, blinking.
Leon stepped forward, his tone grounding the cavern. "Every world has a Keyhole — and each one leads to the world's heart. When the Heartless get inside that Keyhole… they tamper with the world's core."
Donald frowned. "World's core?"
"With the tampering of the core, it brings destruction," Shadow explained, eyes flicking toward Donald. "In the end… the world disappears. Just like Mobius."
"WHAT?!" Donald and Goofy shouted out.
"So that's what happened to my home too?" Sora whispered, the shock draining the colour from his face.
"Afraid so," Leon replied quietly.
Sonic swallowed, shoulders tightening. "Man… makes you wonder how many worlds are in danger right now…" He turned to Leon, a brow lifting. "And you didn't want to tell us this before we left town the first time?"
Shadow huffed with dark amusement. "They forgot."
"WHAT?!" Sonic exclaimed, both arms shooting out to the sides. "How can you forget something like that?!"
"There was a lot to go over," Aerith said gently, stepping forward to soothe him. She could sense the same frustration in Sora, Donald, Goofy, even Jiminy who had stopped writing mid-sentence. "We didn't want to overwhelm you."
"They thought you'd figure it out," Shadow added bluntly.
"Well… I guess we kinda did," Sora admitted, rubbing the back of his head with a sheepish smile.
"But still, shouldn't that be like… Keyblade 101?" Sonic muttered, folding his arms as he tilted his head.
"Regardless of what we forgot," Leon said firmly, locking eyes with Sora, "you've proven you can seal Keyholes. That's why your weapon is so important."
Aerith's voice softened, her expression full of hope. "Please… lock the Keyholes. You're the only one who can."
Sora hesitated, looking down at his gloved hands. "I… don't know," he admitted, voice tight with uncertainty.
"You can do this, buddy," Sonic said gently, leaning in with an earnest grin. "We've made it this far."
"Seeing more worlds would serve you well," Leon added, arms folding with quiet certainty.
"Yeah!" Donald chirped, trying to fire up the teen. "Come on, Sora!"
"We gotta find your friends and the King," Goofy reminded, nodding firmly.
"And the emeralds," Donald added. "We can't forget those."
"And my friends too," Sonic said, raising a gloved finger.
"Plus Amy and Alice," Goofy echoed. "Oh, and those reports!"
Sonic planted his hands on his hips, tone sharpening. "And we need to save our homes. We can't mope around. Not now."
"The worlds need us," Jiminy added, bouncing on Goofy's shoulder. "They need you, Sora."
"There is no time for pouting, Sora" Shadow said, voice low but steady as he looked to the boy. "The whole universe is at stake."
The words landed like a ripple of cold air, stark but grounding. Sora inhaled slowly. "…Okay," he said at last, lifting his head. Resolve sharpened in his blue eyes. "You're right. Let's do this."
"That's the spirit, buddy!" Sonic beamed.
"We knew we could count on you," Aerith said, her soft smile carrying warmth through the cavern.
Leon nodded. "Other worlds out there need you. And you'll need a better Gummi Ship to reach them."
Sonic let out a sigh that was half-defeat, half-humour. "Well… we do need a new ride."
Leon raised one eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
"Our old ride is totalled…" Sonic muttered.
"How?" asked Leon, brows raised.
"What happened?" added Aerith, confused.
What followed was a whirlwind retelling—creatures, Heartless hybrids, the crash landing, AMS agents, improvised rescue, Goldman. Aerith covered her mouth in shock. Leon blinked once, very slowly. Shadow simply stared at Sonic like he was mentally calculating every wrong turn that led to such a disaster.
"…Right," Leon said bluntly. "You need a new ship."
"Sure do," Sonic chuckled, raising his gloved hands with a shrug.
Shadow didn't hesitate, stepping back into the conversation. "Count me in on this mission."
Everyone froze. Even the cavern air seemed to pause.
"You… wanna come with us?" Sonic asked, head tilting.
"I prefer to work alone," Shadow replied, tone clipped. "But finding the remaining Chaos Emeralds—and the Master Emerald shards—takes priority. If that means working with you…" His gaze narrowed. "Then so be it."
Sonic grinned. "Sounds like a good id—"
Shadow raised a hand sharply, silencing him. "But this is not a buddy-buddy adventure. We have a job to do. The universe must be put back in order."
Sonic rubbed his face. "Fine… sure. Glad to have you along, dude."
Shadow's eyes softened—barely, almost imperceptibly.
"There is one more thing," he said.
Sora tilted his head. "Okay… what is it?"
Shadow looked away for the first time, expression tightening as if he were listening to something distant. "…Something is calling to me."
Sonic blinked. "Calling? Like telepathically, or—?"
"I don't know." Shadow replied, looking down at the ground. "I felt it earlier, while speaking with Aerith. A voice, not words. More like… sorrow. Desperation." He paused, tapping his temple lightly. "Someone out there needs help. Badly. But the signal is faint. Clouded. I can't tell who they are… or where they are."
Aerith's green eyes widened, recognition flickering from their earlier conversation, but she held her tongue.
Sora stepped closer, concern etched on his face. "Then we'll help you figure it out. Whoever they are… we'll find them."
Shadow met his gaze. For a heartbeat, the Ultimate Lifeform's mask cracked into something almost vulnerable.
"…Whether they're near or light-years away," he said quietly, "I'll find them."
Sonic grinned, punching his gloved palm. "Then that's another reason to stick together. We've got people to find, and worlds to save."
Leon nodded firmly. "Then you'd better get that ship sorted. We'll keep searching for Traverse Town's Keyhole in the meantime."
"Wait, you still can't find it?" Sonic asked, eyes widening. "After all these years."
Leon shrugged. "We're trying."
"If we find anything," Aerith added, "we'll let you know."
"Alright," Sora said with renewed determination. "Ship first. Everything else after."
Goofy pumped his fist cheerfully. "Then let's get movin,' fellas! Our new vessel awaits!"
Shadow the Hedgehog - Joined the Party!
The Ultimate Lifeform steps into the team with precision, power, and absolutely zero patience for nonsense. Shadow brings razor-sharp combat technique across every encounter: Chaos Spear for pinpoint ranged strikes, Chaos Upper and Chaos Snap for lightning-fast close-quarters blows, and Chaos Magic for controlled bursts that disrupt even tough Heartless. Though the darkness has weakened long-range Chaos Control, he can still use short warps to dodge, reposition, or rescue allies in a pinch. His rare but potent Chaos Heal lets him stabilise injured teammates. Brooding, brutal, and brilliant—Shadow's strength is now yours to command.
The bell above the Accessory Shop door jingled sharply as the group stepped inside, shaking off the cool night air.
The warmth hit immediately — the familiar smell of metal, oil, and way-too-strong tea.
Cid stood hunched at the counter, goggles pushed up into his hair, a steaming mug of tea beside a half-dissected stack of Gummi Blocks. His head lifted the moment the bell rang.
"Well, well," Cid grunted as he stood up straight, squinting at the group. "Look who decided to crawl back. What brings ya here this time?"
Sora stepped forward, earnest as ever. "We're… in need of a new Gummi Ship."
Cid's brow rose, interest instantly sparking. "Oh? And what'd ya do to the old one?"
Donald scraped his feet together, tapping his fingers like he was confessing a crime.
"It…kinda broke apart. On another world."
Cid let out a long whistle, leaning back. "Broke apart, huh? Exploded? Imploded? Fell apart like a cheap chair?"
"Uh… all of the above?" Goofy offered helpfully. Even his hat drooped at the memory. "Real rough landin,' too…"
"Sounds it," Cid chuckled. "So how'd ya folks get back?"
"Our new pals at the AMS gave us a ride," Sonic said, striking a heroic pose with his hands on his hips.
Cid blinked. "AMS? Who the heck are they?"
"Top-secret organisation," Sonic said dramatically, leaning in as if sharing forbidden intel.
Cid snorted, amused. "So — feds."
"Pretty much," Sonic admitted with a shrug.
Sora rubbed the back of his head, gently pulling the conversation back on track. "So… can you help us with another ship?"
"Yeah, yeah," Cid muttered, waving a hand. "I'll whip somethin' up. Just try not to crash this one, got it?"
"We'll try," Sora promised — though even he didn't sound convinced.
Behind the group, Shadow stood with arms crossed, sculpted from pure disapproval.
"If Chaos Control was working correctly," he muttered toward Sonic, "we wouldn't need this ship."
Sonic turned and shot him a grin. "Aw, relax. Gummi travel's fun! You'll like it."
Shadow stared at him blankly. "…If you say so."
Cid tilted his head, looking over the group towards Shadow. "You still brooding, hedgehog?"
"I don't brood," Shadow replied flatly.
"Kinda looks like brooding from where I'm standin'."
Shadow closed his eyes in slow, exhausted suffering.
Cid smirked. "Forgot our newcomer wasn't much of a people person."
Sonic laughed, shrugging. "Cid, he's always like this. Trust me."
"Ya know," Cid went on, poking the dark hedgehog with pure audacity, "wouldn't hurt for you to smile once in a while. Maybe spend time with Aerith. Girl could cheer up a brick."
"She's too cheerful for her own good," Shadow said, eyes half-lidded in annoyance.
Cid barked a laugh, shaking his head. "Your loss."
Before the banter could get nuclear, Donald hopped forward. "Cid! Do you have a ship like our old one?"
"Sure do. Might even be faster."
"Perfect!" Sonic crossed his arms triumphantly. "Knew we could count on you."
Cid held up one finger. "Ah-ah — not so fast. I need a favour first."
Donald stiffened. "What kind of favour?" he asked.
"A delivery," Cid said with the grin of someone gleefully assigning chores. "Real simple."
Shadow scoffed loudly and turned away. "A delivery? You can't be serious. I am not an errand boy."
"Chill out, Shadow," Sonic said, patting his shoulder— and immediately regretting it when Shadow visibly tensed. "Sometimes you gotta help others to get help. Besides — Cid's not charging us. Right, Cid?"
"Nope."
Sonic grinned at Shadow. "See?"
Shadow's eye twitched. "…Fine." He spun toward the door. "I'll wait outside. Do not take all day."
The door slammed behind him so hard the walls rattled.
The group collectively winced.
Donald folded his arms, face screwed up tight. "For the Ultimate Lifeform… he's… he's—"
"A huge prick?" Cid replied without missing a beat.
Three things happened instantly:
Goofy's eyes went so wide they nearly popped out of his head.
Donald detonated, arms flying. "WAAAK! CID!"
Sonic lunged forward like he was diving on a grenade. "CID! PG, MAN!"
Sora blinked, tilting his head as he scratched his cheek. "…Um. What's a pri—?"
"NOPE." Sonic slapped a gloved hand over Sora's mouth. "Nope. We're not doing that. Forget everything you just heard."
Sora pulled his hand away. "But I didn't—"
"Good!" Sonic pointed at him. "Keep it that way!"
Goofy tapped his chin. "I was gonna say Shadow's a bit… 'salty.'"
"Exactly!" Sonic said quickly. "Let's use that one. Very PG. Very guideline friendly."
Cid snorted. "Hmph. 'Salty' works. 'Pr—'"
"CID!" Donald, Goofy, and Sonic yelled in perfect harmony.
Cid just chuckled and lifted his mug of tea, clearly in no hurry to change the subject.
Sora stepped closer to the counter, eager to steer things back on track. "So… um… what do we need to deliver?"
Cid grunted, turned, and rummaged through a pile of metallic clutter until he fished out an old, warped book. He slapped it onto the counter with a dusty thud. The thing practically wheezed.
"A book?" mused Sora.
Sonic recoiled on sight. "Okay, ew — that looks like it crawled out of the basement of Labyrinth Zone."
Cid tapped the cover with his free hand. "It's not just any book. Fella said it popped out of a portal. I patched it up best I could." He nudged it toward Sora. "Take it to the old house past the Third District. Big fire sign on the wall, you can't miss it."
Sora accepted it with both hands, gentle as if it might crumble. "We'll deliver it."
"Good kid," Cid said, taking a satisfied sip of his tea.
Sonic leaned forward, grinning. "And while we're gone — maybe work your magic on that new ship, yeah?"
Cid scoffed and raised his mug in emphasis. "I'll get to it when I get to it, hedgehog. It's still tea time."
Sonic's shoulders slumped so dramatically his quills might as well have drooped. "Of course it is…"
He shot the others a helpless shrug. They sighed in unison — equal parts amused and resigned.
The group stepped back into the cool night air. The gas lanterns hummed softly, casting warm gold across the First District's cobblestones. Sora had tucked the book away for safe keeping.
Shadow stood under one of the lamps, arms crossed, expression fixed in that permanent scowl of his. If he'd moved an inch while they were inside, it didn't show.
Sonic gave him a light nudge as he approached. "C'mon, grumpy, we've got a book to deliver."
Shadow's eyes narrowed. "A book?" He said it like the word offended him. "That's our delivery?"
Sonic opened his mouth to fire back—
CRASH.
The sound slammed through the district like a metal titan had been dropped from the heavens. The ground trembled. A long, grinding metallic groan followed, echoing across the world.
Donald's feathers shot out in every direction. "W-WAK! W-what in the WORLD was THAT?!"
Sora spun around. "That wasn't just me, right?!"
"What the heck was that?!" Sonic blurted, scanning the rooftops.
"Gawrsh… sounded like… somethin' big," Goofy muttered, eyes wide.
Shadow's head snapped toward the walkway to the Second District. Every line in his body tightened. "…Sonic."
Sonic turned. Shadow's crimson eyes gleamed under the lantern light — sharp, alert, unnervingly focused.
"That sound," Shadow said quietly. "You know it. Don't you?"
Another metallic shriek ripped across the rooftops. Sparks flashed somewhere distant.
Sonic's face drained. "…no way."
Shadow clenched his gloved fists. "There's only one person who comes to mind."
"Eggman!" Sonic shouted, features sharpening.
Before anyone could react, hurried footsteps clattered nearby.
A terrified citizen sprinted past them, stumbling so hard he hit the ground. Goofy ran to help him up.
"Easy there, fella! What's going on?" the King's Captain asked.
The man's face was pale, eyes wide. "A r-robot — some huge metal thing! It's tearing apart the Second District! Leon, Aerith, Yuffie — th-they're trapped!"
Sora's breath caught. "No…!"
"Leon, Aerith and Yuffie?!" Sonic shouted out.
"Eggman," Shadow said low and dangerous. He looked across the group. "We stop him. Now."
Donald summoned and raised his staff. "Then let's MOVE already!"
"Gawrsh, this is real bad…" Goofy gulped, summoning and gripping his shield tightly. "We gotta help 'em!"
Shadow didn't wait another second. "Move then."
Sonic gave a sharp nod. "Right behind you."
In twin streaks of blue and red, the hedgehogs were gone.
Sora summoned his Keyblade, heart racing. "Come on! After them!"
Donald and Goofy bolted beside him as the group sprinted towards the Second District, the distant sound of metal groaning growing louder with every step.
Chapter 17: Traverse Town: Second Visit – Part 2: Eggman Unleashed
Summary:
Traverse Town falls under attack when Eggman unleashes the Egg Emperor. Sonic, Shadow, and the KH crew fight back—but victory comes with tension, truth, and a harsh lesson Sora won’t forget.
Chapter Text
The Second District looked less like a town square and more like a war zone.
Brick storefronts were split open, their interiors dark and hollow. The Gizmo Shop’s famous clock lay in a jagged heap of gears and twisted brass. Smoke and dust hung in the air, sharp with the tang of ozone and scorched stone.
Strangely, the district’s fountain was untouched.
And towering over it all, casting a long, golden shadow, loomed the Egg Emperor.
The mech was a masterclass in narcissism and lethality. Its golden armour gleamed even in the flickering ruin-lights, polished plates interlocking with brutal precision. Its massive shield arm dragged a trench through the stone as it moved, kicking up showers of sparks. In its other hand, the long energy lance hummed with a violent, high-pitched whine, the tip pulsing brighter with each taunting step.
Above them, perched in the machine's open domed cockpit, sat Doctor Eggman.
"I AM LOSING PATIENCE WITH YOU PESTS!" Eggman's voice roared, booming like thunder through the night air. "THIS IS YOUR FINAL WARNING! SURRENDER THE LOCATION OF THE KEYHOLE, OR BE REDUCED TO PAVEMENT!"
Yuffie spun her oversized shuriken, ignoring the graze on her knee and the singe marks on her headband. "We already told you, Mustache-Man! We don't know where it is! And even if we did, we wouldn't tell a giant talking egg!"
Eggman scoffed, the sound distinctively theatrical. "Oh, how droll. I'd expect better insults from a ninja, but I suppose your IQ matches your shoe size."
"Hey!" Yuffie snapped, flushing red.
Leon stepped forward, planting himself like an anchor between his friends and the advancing titan. His Gunblade ready to strike.
"We will not yield," he said, his voice low and hard as stone. "And you are not welcome here."
"Leave peacefully," Aerith added, gripping her staff tightly. "Please. There's been enough destruction."
Eggman leaned forward in his cockpit and scoffed. "Peace? My dear girl, I am building an EMPIRE! And peace is just a word for people who lack the firepower to argue!" He slammed a curled fist on his console. "EGG EMPEROR, CHARGE!"
The doom over the cockpit closed shut and the mech lunged. Jets erupted from its back vents, blasting superheated air across the district as the golden colossus shot forward with frightening speed.
"Scatter!" Leon shouted.
They dove apart just as the Egg Emperor's massive lance split the ground where they'd been standing, shards of cobblestone raining down like shrapnel.
Leon hit the ground in a roll, sprang up, and sprinted in. He triggered the firing mechanism on his Gunblade—BANG, BANG, BANG! —driving the vibrating blade into the mech's knee joint.
Sparks exploded, beautiful but pointless. The blade skidded off the rare alloy without leaving a dent.
"USELESS!" Eggman crowed. "This armour is reinforced with carbon-fibre plating and forged in the fires of my brilliance! Your oversized letter-opener won't scratch it!"
"Damn!" groaned Leon, jumping back to get distance.
Yuffie used Leon's distraction. She vaulted off a broken lamppost, flipping over the sweeping lance, and hurled her large shuriken. It pinged off the mech's chest plate like pebbles hitting a tank.
"Pathetic…" Eggman rumbled.
"Oh, come ON!" she yelled, landing in a crouch, catching her weapon. "At least pretend that hurt! It's bad for my self-esteem!"
"Aerith, now!" Leon commanded, forced to backpedal again as the shield swung at his head.
Aerith raised her staff; eyes closed in concentration. "Light... protect us!"
She released a blast of shimmering magic—Fire, Blizzard, and Thunder spiralling into a focused beam that hammered the Egg Emperor's shield.
The mech slid back half a step. The energy washed over the shield, flickered, and was absorbed instantly into the gold plating.
Aerith gasped, staring at her staff in disbelief. "What?"
"Ho-ho-HO!" Eggman laughed, the sound booming like a foghorn dipped in smugness. "Magic? Please. Science conquered superstition centuries ago! Now… GET A LOAD OF THIS!"
The Emperor's shield arm reared back and then slammed into the ground.
A shockwave of pure kinetic energy tore through the district.
"Look out!" Leon braced, but the blast hit him like a physical wall, sending him skidding backward through a pile of debris.
Yuffie was blown off her feet, tumbling mid-air before crashing into the brickwork of the Accessory Shop. "Oww... okay... note to self... that shield is no joke."
Aerith tried to cast a barrier, but the shockwave shattered her concentration, knocking the wind from her lungs. She stumbled, falling to one knee, her staff clattering to the ground.
"Pitiful!" Eggman sneered. The Egg Emperor towered over the fallen flower girl, its lance charging with a piercing electric screech. The red eye of the mech glowed with malice. "I'll crush you like a grape, and then I shall conquer the heart of this world and add it into my glorious Egg Empire!"
Aerith looked up, eyes wide. She couldn't move in time.
Leon struggled to rise, blood trickling down his forehead. "Aerith!"
"No!" Yuffie cried, trying to scramble up, ignoring the pain in her ribs.
"Say goodnight, girly!" Eggman shouted, his hand hovering over the kill switch. "FIRE!"
The lance thrust forward—
ZZZ-ZOOM!
A blue blur slammed into the side of the lance with the force of a cannonball.
The impact jerked the weapon's aim wide, sending the energy beam slicing harmlessly into the night sky.
"WHAT?!" Eggman yelped.
Before the mech could recover, a second blur—this one glowing with crimson energy—materialised directly in front of the cockpit.
"Chaos..." a dark voice barked,"...SPEAR!"
A bolt of light exploded against the Emperor. The massive machine staggered backward, metal groaning, heel-struts gouging the pavement to keep its balance.
Steam hissed and dust swirled.
As the debris settled, two figures stood between Aerith and the machine.
One dusted off his gloved hands, blue quills swept back, a cocky grin plastered on his face. The other stood with arms crossed, glaring with lethal intensity.
"Sonic!" Aerith exclaimed. "Shadow!"
"You okay, Aerith?" the blue hedgehog mused, turning his head to check on her.
Aerith nodded, rising to her feet. "Thank you both for saving me."
"It's what we do," Sonic smirked, giving her a quick thumbs-up.
"Hmph," Shadow huffed, keeping his eyes on the threat.
Sonic's focus turned to the Egg Emperor. He cracked his knuckles, then shook out his hands. "Yo, Egghead. Fancy meeting you here."
Shadow's eyes narrowed, glowing like embers. "You're making a mess, Doctor."
The cockpit's dome opened and Eggman sneered. He slapped both gloved palms onto the control panel, his face turning a spectacular shade of purple.
"Oh, OF COURSE!" he bellowed, the audio feedback screeching. "YOU TWO RODENTS HAD TO SHOW UP TO RUIN MY DAY!"
Sonic shrugged, casually stretching a leg. "What can I say? We love to rain on your parade. Besides, you're threatening my friends. Can't let that slide."
"You picked the wrong world," Shadow added, his voice deep and dismissive. "And the wrong opponents."
"Ugh…insufferable! Both of you!" Eggman groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. He then slammed his hands down on the console once more. "Can't a genius take over one world in peace?"
"Sonic! Shadow!"
Sora's voice rang across the broken district. The Keybearer sprinted in from the First District's doors, Donald and Goofy hot on his heels.
"Sora! Donald! Goofy!" Aerith called out, relief washing over her face as she used her staff to stand.
"We're here!" Sora skidded to a stop next to Leon. "Are you guys okay?"
Leon exhaled—a quick, silent acknowledgement of the backup. He wiped the blood from his brow. "We're alive. That machine is... durable."
Yuffie limped over, clutching her arm but grinning. "'Bout time you slowpokes showed up! That guy's got a serious ego problem."
"WAK! What is that thing?!" Donald asked, raising his staff.
Goofy raised his shield, looking up at the towering gold mech. "Gawrsh... that's a mighty big tin soldier."
"It is the EGG EMPEROR!" Eggman shouted, his voice cracking. "Show some respect to my genius, you oversized, buck-toothed buffoon with a frisbee!"
"Frisbee…" Goofy mumbled, dumbfounded.
"Hey!" Donald shouted back, shaking his Morning Star staff furiously. "You show some respect to the King's Captain!"
"Make me, simpleton!"
"I'M THE ROYAL MAGE!"
"Royal Mage?" Eggman looked down to get a better look at who was shouting at him. All the Doctor could do was laugh cruelly. "HA! You look more like an appetiser!"
"WAAAK! Why I oughta—" Donald began jumping up and down in a rage.
"Cool it, Donnie," Sonic interrupted, looking to the temperamental duck. "Don't let him get under your feathers. He feeds on attention."
"He is goading you," Shadow said, his voice cutting through the tension. "Focus."
Donald stopped jumping, his beak twisting into a scowl, though he lowered his staff slightly.
"He's just a big bully!" Goofy remarked firmly, shield raised a little higher. "Rise above it, fellas."
Sora stepped forward, the Redemption's Echo Keyblade gripped tight, but his blue eyes darted to Sonic. "Is this him? The guy you told us about?"
"Afraid so," Sonic said, his expression hardening. "That's Eggman."
Shadow unfolded his arms, staring up at the golden plating. "The Egg Emperor... It's been a while since we've seen this model."
Sonic nodded, kicking a piece of rubble. "Yeah. He must've built a new one. Seeing as Mobius is, well... gone."
"Hmph," Shadow murmured. "Foolish."
Sora frowned, sensing the history, but he turned his focus back to the cockpit. He pointed his Keyblade directly at the Doctor. "Why are you doing this? What do you want?"
Eggman leaned back, regaining his composure, his grin widening into something manic.
"I'll tell you why, Keybearer! With the Keyhole, I can harness its power to fuel the glorious Egg Empire forever!" One gloved hand slammed down on the console, whilst the others rose into the air dramatically. "I'll rewrite the stars themselves in my image!"
Sonic sighed, loud, and unimpressed. He began picking at his ear. "Blah, blah, blah. 'Darkness this, Empire that.' Do you have a scriptwriter for this stuff, or do you just make it up as you go?"
"Silence, hedgehog!" Eggman snapped.
"You still talk too much," Shadow said coldly. "Surrender. Now."
"NEVER, SHADOW!" Eggman slammed the levers forward. The Egg Emperor roared to life again, vents glowing white-hot as the system went into overdrive. The air around the mech began to warp from the heat. The protective dome slid shut over the cockpit, sealing the Doctor inside. "I will crush every last one of you flat! PREPARE TO BE DESTROYED!"
Sora gritted his teeth, shifting his stance. "He's really not gonna give up, is he?"
"Nope," Sonic said, dropping into a runner's stance. "He never does. That's the fun part."
"Fun?" Donald shouted, looking to the hedgehog in disbelief.
Sonic gave the mage a sly wink. "Just follow my lead! Shadow, you take the high road, yeah?"
"I'll handle the weapons systems," Shadow confirmed, red aura flaring around his body. "Don't get in my way."
"Wouldn't dream of it," Sonic joked with a smirk.
Leon raised his Gunblade, and Yuffie twirled her shuriken, both ready to lend a hand. Aerith raised her staff, casting Cura across the group; a warm, soothing light enveloped them, knitting wounds and restoring their strength.
"We'll provide cover," Leon ordered, pointing his Gunblade at the Egg Emperor. "Sora, go!"
Sora nodded, adrenaline surging as he rushed in. "Let's go, guys!"
Eggman cackled, the Egg Emperor's lance igniting with enough electricity to light up the entire district.
"COME ON THEN! STEP UP AND FACE THE MIGHT OF THE EGGMAN EMPIRE!"
Sonic grinned, smirk widening. "Let's scramble this egg."
Egg Emperor
Objective: Defeat the Egg Emperor.
Party: Sora, Donald, Goofy, Leon, Yuffie, Aerith, Sonic, Shadow.
Music: Egg Emperor – Sonic Heroes
"Eight against one, huh?" Eggman scoffed smugly from the cockpit. "Very well. I like those odds. It makes the crushing defeat you're about to suffer even more embarrassing!" He slammed a gloved fist onto the console. "GET A LOAD OF THIS!"
The Egg Emperor leaned forward with a grinding shriek. The massive shield raised, locking into a defensive posture, while the lance angled down like a guillotine. The tip of the weapon began to scream with a hateful, crackling yellow light.
"TARGETS LOCKED," the mech's automated system droned. "PREPARE TO BE ERASED."
"Move!" Leon roared.
The warning came a fraction of a second too late. The Egg Emperor didn't just attack; it exploded forward. The thrusters on its back flared, and the lance swept out in a wide, decapitating arc.
WHOOSH-CRACK.
A crescent of golden energy tore through the air, shearing the top off a streetlamp and carving a deep, trench into the cobblestones. The sound was like a thunderclap trapped in a box.
The party fragmented and scattered.
Sonic didn't run; he vanished. A blue streak carved a jagged line across the battered plaza as he drifted around the energy wave, sparks spitting from his heels as he skidded sideways across broken stone and crumbled debris.
Shadow blinked out of existence entirely, Chaos Control snapping him into a smear of light just as the lance bisected the space he'd occupied a moment earlier.
Sora, less graceful but fuelled by adrenaline, hurled himself into a desperate Dodge Roll, shoulder slamming the ground as he tumbled under the lethal crescent.
Leon reacted a half-second later. His boots dug into the cobblestones as he twisted sharply aside. He brought the Gunblade up like a shield, bracing the flat of the blade against the shockwave as it scraped past, sparks hissing off the reinforced metal. The blast shoved him back two steps before he steadied himself with a grunt.
Nearby, Yuffie nearly skidded on loose debris. "Whoaaa—!" She flipped backward in a nimble somersault, her shoes barely grazing the top of a shattered crate as she kicked off it, landing in a low crouch atop a broken section of railing. "Note to self…AVOID the shiny death waves!"
Aerith had the least time of all. Eyes widening, she thrust her staff downward.
"Aero!" she called out.
A cushion of wind erupted beneath her feet, lifting her just high enough that the golden wave skimmed under her boots, carving a fresh gouge through the street instead of her legs. She landed lightly, breath catching, the ends of her pink ribbon fluttering from the force of the near miss.
But not everyone was as fortunate to escape the shockwave.
"WAAAK—!"
"Yaaaaa-hoo-hoo-hooey!"
The force of the energy wave lifted them both off their feet like ragdolls. Donald pinwheeled through the air, his staff clattering away, before he slammed back-first into the brickwork of a nearby shop. He slid down the wall, a circle of cartoonish stars already twittering around his head.
Goofy took the hit on his shield, but the physics of a fifty-ton mech were undeniable. He was launched skyward, somersaulting backwards with a mournful wail, landing with a bone-shaking thud near Donald.
"Donald! Goofy!" Sora's heart lurched. He scrambled towards them, yellow shoes skidding on the loose grit, only to slide to a terrified halt. The Egg Emperor crashed down between him and his friends, the lance slamming into the cobbles hard enough to send chunks of stone flying. The shockwave knocked Sora onto his backside.
"Pathetic!" Eggman jeered, the mech looming like a golden god. "These are the King's chosen elite? I've seen sturdier resistance from cardboard cutouts! Even Orbot has more backbone… and he doesn't have a spine!"
Shadow reappeared, perched effortlessly on top of a bent lamppost, arms crossed. The red stripes on his quills seemed to pulse with irritation.
"He has a point," the dark hedgehog muttered, his voice gravelly and unimpressed.
"Dude, NOT the time for a performance review!" Sonic snapped. He blurred into motion, Light Speed Shoes sparking as he shot to Sora's side to help him up. "We got a rhythm to keep here! Sora, eyes up!"
Leon stepped up beside Sora and Sonic, Gunblade raised high, placing himself directly in the mech's eyeline to draw its attention.
"Focus," he said sharply, his voice cutting clean through the tension. "We keep Eggman away from Donald and Goofy."
"And maybe try not to level the rest of Traverse Town!" Yuffie shouted, throwing both hands in the air. "WE LIVE HERE!"
"R-right," Sora breathed, forcing himself to tighten his grip on the Keyblade. "We do this together."
"You said it, pal," Sonic agreed, firm and fired-up as he sprinted back into the chaos. "Let's do it to it!"
"Yuffie, high ground—flank him!" Leon barked, firing a round to yank the mech's focus his way, whilst Sonic slammed into its opposite side with a sharp Spin Dash, blue sparks scattering.
Nearby, Shadow warped in beside the impact, flinging a Chaos Spear straight toward the mech's core, before disappearing again.
"Aerith, stay behind us!" Leon barked, his tone razor-precise. "Keep the defensive wards up—we'll need them."
"Okay!" Aerith replied with a firm nod, backing up to gain distance, staff already glowing with protective magic.
"You got it!" Yuffie vaulted onto a broken ledge, wall-running toward the hotel balcony with her giant shuriken spinning like a sawblade. "Hey, egg-breath! Eyes up here!"
"That is not my name!" Eggman snapped from inside the cockpit.
Yuffie grinned. "Sure it is! It even comes with the smell!"
"WH—WHY YOU LITTLE—!"
The Egg Emperor pivoted sharply, shield sliding into place with a heavy mechanical clank, fully dragging its attention away from the heroes on the ground.
Sonic didn't hesitate. He curled mid-air, revving into a blue blur—a Spin Dash charged in milliseconds. He shot forward, aiming a Homing Attack straight for the opening.
THWACK–CLANG!
Sonic rebounded off the shield as if he'd slammed into a mountain of pure golden bedrock. The impact sent him tumbling backward, shoes screeching against the cobblestone as he skidded into a crouch.
"Okay, that's new," Sonic grunted, shaking off the ringing in his spine. "That thing's tougher than a bad review."
"Of course it is!" Eggman boasted from inside the mech. "I analysed the combat data from our last encounter and improved upon it! I call it... Egg-Titanium!"
"Catchy," Sonic deadpanned. He cocked an eyebrow, leaning casually despite the danger. "You come up with that yourself, or did you steal it from a comic book?"
"I DO NOT STEAL! I INNOVATE!" Eggman screamed, slamming his fists on the controls. "STOP MOCKING ME!"
"Whatever you say, Egghead," Sonic teased.
"Man. What a baby," Yuffie mocked from the rooftops.
"That's one way of putting it," Shadow admitted bluntly.
Eggman took a breath, composing himself with a sinister chuckle. "This lance can pierce starship hulls! The shield can withstand battleship cannons! And the pilot possesses an IQ of three hundred! You are nothing but variables in an equation that ends in ZERO!"
"Shame about the ego stat," Sonic shot back tauntingly. "It's maxed out, but your charisma is nerfed."
"ENOUGH!"
The lance lunged like a spear, faster than before. Sonic twisted away, the tip scraping sparks off the ground as it missed him by inches.
"Covering fire!" Leon shouted. He stepped in, Gunblade levelled. BANG. BANG. BANG. The explosive rounds hammered against the mech's knee joints, creating puffs of black smoke.
"Shadow, now!"
Shadow didn't need telling. He warped from a nearby lamppost in a flash of light, reappearing directly behind the mech's dome. He drove a chaos-infused roundhouse kick at the machine's neck.
WHAM.
An energy field flared around the Egg Emperor, repelling the blow.
"Predictable!" Eggman sneered. The Egg Emperor's back vents blasted superheated steam, forcing Shadow to teleport away before he was boiled alive.
"Tsk. Shielding covers the blind spots too," Shadow noted curtly, landing gracefully beside Leon. "This will be tedious."
"Guys! Heads up!" Sora yelled, rushing forward. He couldn't move like them, so he had to hit harder. He raised his Keyblade high. "Thunder!"
Lightning crackled down from above, a jagged spear of electricity slamming into the Egg Emperor. The mech flinched, armour darkening where the bolt struck, but the shield rotated with impossible speed to catch the brunt of the voltage, grounding it harmlessly.
"Hmph. Minor cosmetic damage," Eggman sniffed, adjusting his glasses. "Allow me to reply, boy!"
The lance swept sideways. Another golden energy wave exploded out, this time lower, aimed to sweep the legs of the entire party.
"Jump!" Leon barked.
Sora sprang, heart stuttering as the shockwave raced under his shoes. Leon didn't just jump; he slammed the flat of his Gunblade into the ground and fired, the recoil launching him high into the air.
Aerith used Aero again, wind wrapping around her to lift her just enough that the wave passed beneath.
Up on the balcony, Yuffie saw her opening. "Chew on this!" She launched her giant shuriken, aiming for the mech's exposed neck joint. "Ha! Gotcha!"
PING.
The shuriken bounced off like a pebble off a tank. It spun back wildly, and Yuffie barely snagged it out of the air.
"Okay, rude!" she sneered.
"You tried that earlier," Eggman scoffed. "Again... I suppose your IQ really is the size of your shoes."
"Oh, shut up!" Yuffie yelled, face turning red.
"SILENCE!" Eggman roared. "I'm done toying with you! Initiate: Emperor Barrage!"
Missile pods unfolded from the Egg Emperor's back with a hydraulic hiss. Lock-on. Lock-on. Lock-on. Dozens of laser sights painted the plaza floor, putting a red dot on everyone's chest.
"Okay… that's not good," Yuffie uttered, eyes widening.
"Oh no," Aerith gasped.
"Incoming!" Leon called out.
"Move it!" Sonic started to yell, blurring to shove Sora out of the blast zone.
But a deeper voice cut through the chaos, absolute and commanding. Shadow threw his gloved hand out, the red Chaos Emerald materialising in a burst of crimson radiance.
"CHAOS CONTROL!"
The air buckled. Colours inverted—blue to orange, black to white—before reality snapped into perfect stillness.
The roar of the thrusters died mid-scream. Dust froze in the air like glitter suspended in amber. Cobblestones half-lifted from the Egg Emperor's shockwave hung motionless mid-air.
The missile pods hadn't fired yet—but Shadow's time stop caught them just as they primed. The canisters trembled, their internal lights stuck mid-flicker. The first glimmer of exhaust had begun to form… then froze in jagged ribbons of grey vapor.
Aerith stood statuesque, a gasp trapped in her throat.
Leon and Yuffie were locked mid-motion, muscles taut, ready to dodge or strike.
Sora was caught. He was halfway into a forward lunge, Keyblade raised to guard against a missile that hadn't yet launched. His mind raced frantically, fully conscious—but his body remained locked in the amber of frozen time.
Sonic's body felt like it weighed a hundred tons, limbs fighting molasses. But his green eyes strained sideways with excruciating slowness, tracking the only thing truly alive in this frozen world—
Shadow.
The Ultimate Lifeform glided over the stillness like a phantom.
He skated forward, air shoes skimming the fractured cobbles. He vaulted up the mech's frame, driving a Chaos-charged heel into the Egg Emperor's head.
CRACK.
Spiderweb fractures spread across the reinforced metal.
The hedgehog warped, reappearing at the mech's back. Shadow ripped one of the inert missiles free from its housing and slammed it violently back into the launch tube—nose-first—jamming the entire firing mechanism.
He spun, flinging his arm wide. Chaos Spears fired in a rapid arc from his palm—but time held them fast, humming in the air, mere inches from the mech's exposed vents.
The Chaos Emerald pulsed in his grasp like a dying heartbeat. He had seconds—maybe less.
Shadow dropped to the ground in front of the mech. He summoned away the emerald and adjusted his gloves with calm finality. He didn't look back.
"Bang," he whispered coolly.
Time snapped back with a violent whip-crack.
KA-BOOM!
Reality detonated.
The jammed missile exploded inside the launcher, blowing the Egg Emperor's back open in a shower of molten metal. At the same instant, the Chaos Spears hit the vents, erupting in a chain of internal detonations.
"WAAAAUGH!" Eggman shrieked, voice cracking in panic.
The mech staggered, then was hurled backward. Smoke billowed and oil splattered as a burning stench rolled across the plaza.
The world lurched back into motion.
Yuffie staggered, clutching her head. "Ugh—major headrush. Did… did we just skip a chapter?!"
Leon blinked hard, eyes stinging. "Time magic…" He grimaced. "Still not a fan."
"That's Chaos Control for ya," Sonic said, rubbing his eyes with both hands. "Intense, right?"
"My eyes hurt," Yuffie moaned from the rooftop.
"Mine too…" Aerith murmured, blinking rapidly.
Sora shaded his eyes, squinting at the half-destroyed mech struggling to rise. "Did Shadow cause all of that?"
"Yeah," Sonic confirmed. "He froze the missiles before launch. Must've jammed one right into the mech's back or something."
Shadow teleported forward in a crimson flicker, his back turned toward them.
Yuffie hopped down from the rooftop, hands on her hips. "A little warning would've been nice, Shadow!"
"I shouted Chaos Control," Shadow said flatly. "That's enough warning."
"But you didn't—"
"Enough." Shadow's voice cut like a blade. "We don't have time for this. Someone heal the King's followers, now." He jabbed a finger toward the staggering Egg Emperor. "The Doctor is disoriented. We end this."
Aerith already had her staff raised. "Cura!"
A warm, floral light washed over Donald.
Simultaneously, Sora thrust his Keyblade towards Goofy. "Heal!"
Donald sputtered awake, feathers fluffing wildly as he snatched up his Morning Star staff. "WAK! I'm up—I'm up!"
Goofy pushed himself upright with a groan, then grabbed his shield with renewed grip. "Gawrsh… thanks, Sora!"
Sonic swept a quick look over the group and nodded with a smirk.
"Everyone's accounted for." He cracked his knuckles and pointed dramatically at the smoking mech. "Alright, let's kick Egghead to the curb!"
"Let's go!" Leon barked, slashing his Gunblade across the air in a sharp arc.
"Move," Shadow growled—and vanished in a blink of crimson light.
Apart from Aerith, the group surged forward as one—a tidal wave of retaliation crashing toward the mech.
"Phantom Rush!" Sonic shouted, leaping into the air.
The hedgehog erupted into a blur of blue, hammering the Egg Emperor's chest plate a dozen times in a single second. Each blow dented the golden armour deeper, sparks bursting off the surface like fireworks.
"Impossible!" Eggman shrieked. "The Egg-Titanium should be sending you bouncing off like a pinball!"
"It's not the metal, Eggman!" Sonic cackled, landing and tapping the mech's dome like he was checking a watermelon for ripeness. "You built a wall—so naturally, I became a wrecking ball! It's basic Sonic-onomics!"
"That doesn't make any sense!"
"Of course it doesn't, Egghead! If it did, you'd have tried it and failed already!"
"BLAAAST YOU, SONIC!"
"See ya!" Sonic saluted as he kicked away.
With Eggman distracted and furious, Sora leaped high, Keyblade flashing.
"This is it!"
The blade carved downward, slicing through the weakened shoulder plating and peeling it back like a tin can.
"Why you little—!" Eggman sputtered, panic rising.
"Take this! Thunder!" Donald cried, thrusting his staff skyward.
A colossal bolt of lightning slammed into the exposed circuitry, frying internal systems in an explosive crackle of sparks.
"Gaaah!" Eggman choked, his gloved hands slipping over the controls.
"Hyuck—charge!" Goofy bellowed. He barrelled forward, lowering his shoulder and ramming the mech's knee joint with battering-ram force. Metal buckled inward with a tortured groan.
Leon and Yuffie struck next. Yuffie's shuriken spun in a blazing arc, severing exposed hydraulics, while Leon followed with a brutal flurry of Gunblade strikes—ending with a point-blank explosive shell to the mech's flank.
Shadow finished the barrage. He teleported directly above the reeling titan.
"Chaos… Spear!"
A rain of golden projectiles pierced the armour like paper.
Inside the cockpit, sparks showered across Eggman's moustache. Screens shattered.
"Blast you, Shadow! SYSTEMS! RESPOND! NOW!"
The Egg Emperor groaned—but didn't rise fully. Dashboard lights flickered... then died.
"What—no… the controls aren't responding! Don't you die on me now!" Eggman howled, panic swallowing his bravado.
Sonic skidded to a halt beside Shadow. They exchanged a glance.
"Shall we?" Sonic asked smirking. There was a dangerous glint in his eye.
Shadow's lips twitched in the faintest dark smirk. "Let's."
Sora stepped forward, Keyblade raised, ready to join the finisher, but the sudden drop in air pressure made him freeze.
Wind whipped violently around the two hedgehogs as they accelerated away. The teen lowered his blade slightly, a flicker of disappointment crossing his face.
"I can't keep up with that, he realised, his inner thoughts dampening his spirits. "Not yet…"
Leon caught the look, said nothing, and turned his eyes back to the finale.
Sonic ran clockwise around the spluttering mech, revving until he was a streaking buzzsaw of blue energy.
Shadow skated counter clockwise, engulfed in distortion and crimson light.
They launched together, a twin comet of azure and red.
They struck the Egg Emperor's core from opposite sides with meteor force.
"NO! NO NO—MY BEAUTIFUL EMPEROR!" Eggman wailed. "GAAAAHHH!"
KRA-KOOOOOM!
The core didn't just explode— it disintegrated as the mech fell onto its back.
A shockwave ripped across the district, rattling every window and flinging debris like a hurricane of shrapnel.
"Get behind me!" Aerith shouted, thrusting her staff forward. "Barrier!"
The team dove towards her. The shimmering dome ignited around them a heartbeat before the full blast hit, heat roaring, sparks hissing off the barrier's surface, the force of the blast pounding against the shield like a living thing.
When the world finally settled, the dome flickered out.
"That… was close…" Goofy wheezed.
"You're telling me," Donald muttered, feathers puffed from pure adrenaline.
From the heart of the fireball, a smaller craft shot into the sky—the Eggmobile, trailing black smoke as it spiralled away in a screaming panic.
"I HATE THOSE HEDGEHOGS!" Eggman's voice echoed over the district. "AND I HATE THIS WORLD! THE ARCHITECTURE IS CONFUSING! YOU'VE NOT SEEN THE LAST OF ME, HEROES!"
The flames finally died down, revealing the aftermath.
The Egg Emperor was no longer a mech. It was a corpse—a heap of twisted scrap and shattered plating, knee-deep in oil bleeding from ruined joints like inky blood. The last sparks flickered weakly then went out.
Sonic skidded to a stop and brushed off his gloved hands. Shadow appeared opposite him, adjusting his inhibitor rings with cool detachment.
"Architecture critique," Sonic snorted. "Classy to the end." He turned to the stunned group, flashing a victorious thumbs-up. "That's all, folks!"
[Result Theme – Sonic Unleashed starts playing]
RANK: A
"A Rank! Cool!" Sonic announced proudly.
The hedgehog flipped into an easy, show-off backflip, dropped into a breezy breakdance spin, then slid onto his side, one hand propping up his head, the other finger-gunning directly at Sora like he was posing for a magazine cover.
Sora blinked, then laughed. "Heh—nice!"
"WAK! I wanna do one!" Donald remarked.
Goofy beamed, rubbing the back of his head. "Hyuck! Me too!"
The two scrambled to mimic Sonic—Donald trying a dramatic stance with his staff raised like a wand-wielding hero, Goofy striking what he clearly thought was a cool knightly pose but looked more like he'd lost his balance halfway through a stretch.
Chuckling, Sora joined in, planting his Keyblade over his shoulder and giving a confident grin, playing along like it was the most normal thing in the world.
Shadow crossed his arms, unimpressed. "Hmph. A rank, huh. Acceptable… I suppose. Considering I carried that fight."
Donald spun on him instantly, jabbing his staff in Shadow's direction. "HEY! What's that supposed to mean?!"
"You know what it means," Shadow replied bluntly, eyes narrowing just a fraction.
Sonic pushed himself upright with a smirk, a small laugh escaping.
"Donnie… you were napping for, like, half of it. You and Goofy fell asleep on the job."
Goofy scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Gawrsh… I do remember seein' a lotta stars…"
Donald opened his beak to argue, closed it, puffed up… "…Fine."
Shadow shifted his stance, sliding one foot forward, one hand resting on his hip, the other dangling loosely at his side. He angled his head back just enough to give the camera—the imaginary one Sonic always posed to—a lethal, side-eyed glare.
"Hmph."
Behind them, Leon pinched the bridge of his nose. "This again…"
Yuffie elbowed him. "Do you know what's going on?"
Leon sighed deeply. "Back when I first met Sonic… and we fought Sora… he gave our fight a ranking afterwards." He gestured weakly at the blue hedgehog. "Apparently this is… normal."
"Weird," Yuffie declared, hands on her hips. Then she grinned. "But kinda fun."
Aerith giggled softly. "I think it's different… in a good way."
Sonic flashed his trademark grin, hopping up onto a broken bit of stone like it was a stage.
"Alright, Traverse Town Crew!" he shouted. "Strike a pose!"
Yuffie immediately leapt up, holding her shuriken overhead like a victory banner.
Leon resigned himself but raised his Gunblade in a clean, disciplined ready stance, whilst Aerith lifted her staff with a warm, graceful smile.
"Now that's an A-Rank lineup," Sonic remarked proudly.
The smoking carcass of the Egg Emperor hissed like an oversized kettle, vents sparking and metal popping as it cooled. The Second District didn't fare much better—stone shattered, storefronts gutted, scorch marks everywhere. The group stood catching their breath, taking in the mess.
Shadow remained several steps away, arms folded, eyes shut, radiating brooding disdain like a space heater set to "maximum angst."
Leon surveyed the wreckage with a weary sigh. He dismissed his Gunblade in a flicker of light and crossed his arms.
"…This is going to be a big clean-up," he muttered.
"You said it," Donald agreed, feathers still puffed from adrenaline.
"Gawrsh… hope that Eggman fella stays away for a while," Goofy added, tilting his head at the ruined mech.
"Yeah…" Sora nodded, though doubt crept into his voice.
Yuffie planted her hands on her hips and turned to Sonic. "You know Mustache Mountain best, Sonic. Think he's gone for good or what?"
Sonic blew out a slow breath, gaze drifting to the sputtering debris. "Eggman? Yeah, he'll be back." His tone darkened, just a shade. "With him, it's never 'if.' It's 'when.'"
Donald kicked a pebble, watching it ping uselessly off the mangled remains of the mech. "Ah, phooey…"
"Oh come on," Yuffie said brightly, her mood bouncing back like a rubber band. "Look on the brightside!"
Aerith gave her a soft, perplexed blink. "…There's a brightside to all this mess?"
"Of course there is!" Yuffie leaned in, eyes wide with theatrical conviction. "We've got back-up now. Serious back-up if Eggman shows up again." She gestured proudly towards Sora, Donald, and Goofy… then jerked a thumb at Sonic. "And fast back-up." She turned her head towards Shadow. "And broodier, back-up."
Shadow's ear twitched. He didn't move, but his low huff absolutely said, "I am ignoring you on purpose."
Aerith's worry softened. "I suppose that is a comfort."
"See? I'm always right!" Yuffie beamed.
"…Sometimes," Leon replied deadpan.
"HEY!" she barked, hands flying up. "Rude!"
The group laughed—everyone except Shadow, who looked about one joke away from Chaos Spearing the nearest wall.
When the laughter settled, Sora turned towards the Traverse Town trio, expression shifting into concern.
"So… what were you guys thinking fighting Eggman alone?" he questioned.
Yuffie puffed her cheeks indignantly. "We couldn't just retreat! That's not our style."
Sora rubbed the back of his head. "…Right, that's fair."
Leon stepped forward, practical as ever. "When we left the cavern, we went to check the Third District first. That's where we found Yuffie."
Donald blinked, looking to the ninja. "Wait a minute…weren't you supposed to go back to help Tails?"
Yuffie waved off the question. "I got sidetracked."
Sonic arched a brow, arms folding. "Into the furthest district?"
"Hey!" Yuffie jabbed a finger at him. "I'm a treasure-hunting ninja. There could've been something useful for Tails' new workshop!"
"Like what?" Sonic probed further.
Yuffie froze. "…I dunno. Science stuff. Treasure stuff."
Sonic stared, eyes half open.
Yuffie tried again. "…Shiny stuff?"
"Right…" Sonic gave a knowing look. "You know… you and Rouge would get on like a house on fire."
"Rouge?" Yuffie perked up. "Who's that?"
Sonic pointed at Shadow without even looking. "A friend from home. Works with grumpy over there."
Shadow inhaled sharply through his nose, definitely hearing them, definitely pretending not to.
"She's a spy," Sonic continued. "Likes jewels and treasure. Also, she likes breaking into places she shouldn't."
Yuffie lit up like a firecracker. "Oh my Gaia. She'd totally be my new BFFL!" She turned to Aerith. "Sorry, Aerith."
Aerith flushed pink, waving her hands. "N-no, it's fine! I—I'm sure she'd be lovely to have around…"
“Let’s move this along,” Leon cut in before the tangent could spiral. “After we regrouped, we were heading to the fountain here in the Second District.” He nodded towards it. “There was something… off about the energy there.”
Sora tilted his head. “Off?”
Aerith’s expression softened with worry. “It felt unstable. Like the world was being tugged at.”
“Interesting…” Sonic murmured, hand on his chin as he glanced over at the fountain. “Yet I’m just amazed it’s still in one piece…”
“Guess it’s made of sturdy stuff,” Sora suggested.
“Maybe,” Sonic replied with a shrug. “So, what happened next?”
“Before we could finish checking it out,” Leon continued, “we heard the crash.”
“So we ran into action,” Yuffie finished, twirling her shuriken like she was demonstrating the moral of the story. “And… well, Mustache-Man was throwing a full-on villain tantrum.”
Sonic barked a laugh, hands settling on his hips. "Classic Egghead."
Leon gave a small nod, voice low but sincere. "Regardless… thanks. For stepping in."
"We really appreciate it," Aerith added gently, her smile warm despite the exhaustion.
"Totally," Yuffie agreed.
"No sweat," Sonic said with an easy wave. "We took care of it."
"Is that so…" Shadow finally spoke, voice edged with irritation.
Sonic pivoted, features raised. "Oh look, he talks. Got something to say, faker?"
Shadow didn't flinch or open his eyes. He just stood there — arms folded, expression unreadable.
"Actually, yes," he said, tone dropping to cold iron. "You all need to step it up. That was sloppy."
The sentence hit the group like a bucket of freezing water.
"Huh?" Goofy blinked in surprise, scratching his head.
"WAK?! Whaddaya mean sloppy?!" Donald sputtered.
Sora frowned, clearly stung. "That's… kinda harsh, Shadow. Don't you think?"
Shadow's eyes opened, crimson and unblinking as they swept over the trio.
"Don't get me started on you and your friends, Keyblade wielder," he snapped bluntly.
Aerith's breath hitched. "Shadow…"
Yuffie, already seeing the storm roll in, whispered under her breath, "…Oh boy…he we go."
Leon didn't speak. He just exhaled softly and closed his eyes.
Sonic stepped forward, visibly annoyed. "Knock it off, Shadow. That Egg Emperor's no pushover, especially if Egghead improved it. You know that."
Shadow slowly uncrossed his arms and began pacing in a tight, controlled arc. He moved like a drill sergeant inspecting raw recruits, each step deliberate, each glance razor-sharp—his gaze cutting through the group like a laser beam.
"Let's be honest here, Sonic," he said, voice level and unflinching. "Without you and me, the rest of them would've been crushed by Eggman."
Leon's eyes snapped open. "Excuse me?"
"Oh wow…" Aerith breathed, her free hand rising to her chest. She wasn't angry, just startled by the sheer bluntness.
Yuffie stepped forward, hands planted on her hips. "You want to run that by us again, hedgehog?"
Shadow didn't even glance at her.
"You all lack conviction," he said, turning sharply and sweeping a gloved hand toward Sora, Donald, and Goofy. "Especially the kid, and the King's followers."
"HEY!" Donald quacked violently, feathers flaring. "What's that supposed to mean?!"
Goofy blinked, shoulders hunching a little. "Gawrsh…"
"You need discipline," Shadow said coldly. "Your tactics were a mess. Donald, Goofy—one hit, and you were down in seconds."
Donald and Goofy exchanged looks—the duck puffed up defensively, cheeks stuffed with indignation, while the King's Captain frowned, shoulders lowering in embarrassment.
"And Sora…" Shadow's red eyes narrowed, locking onto the teen like a targeting laser. "…You've got a long way to go before you can call yourself a hero."
The words cracked through the district like a thunderclap.
Leon's jaw tightened by the remark.
Yuffie's eyebrows shot up, her shuriken lowering to her side.
Aerith's expression gently collapsed into worry.
Even Sonic's confident posture wavered, eyes flicking between Sora and Shadow.
Shadow wasn't teasing or mocking them. He was judging them all.
But Sora didn't flinch. The teen stepped forward, meeting Shadow's gaze head-on.
"We've beaten plenty of Heartless," Sora shot back, his voice steady, burning with defiance. "We've saved worlds!"
"Yeah! We're not weaklings!" Donald shouted, feathers bristling with righteous fury.
"Gawrsh… we're doin' our best…" Goofy added, his voice soft but earnest, always trying to bridge the cracks before they became canyons.
Shadow exhaled sharply through his nose, his arms folded tight. "Your best isn't going to cut it against what's out there. You think the darkness is going to show mercy? You'll be lucky to survive the next big fight."
"That's enough, Shadow," Sonic warned.
But Shadow didn't back down.
"I'm not here to coddle them," he snapped. He jabbed an open hand towards Sora without even looking at him. "The kid's got potential, sure. But that won't matter if he keeps fighting like a rookie. He needs to step up."
That was it.
Sora lifted the Keyblade in one instinctive motion, pointing it straight at Shadow.
The group froze. Even Leon blinked.
"You've got a lot of nerve, Shadow," Sora said, voice sharp as steel.
"Don't point that thing at me," Shadow said darkly, unfazed. "Unless you're ready to fight."
"You're treating us like we're stupid," Sora growled. "We've saved people. We've risked everything!"
Shadow scoffed, unfolding his arms. "And let me guess… saved worlds?" He took a mocking half-step closer. "Oh, forgive me, Sora. I didn't realise you'd become a Keyblade Master after visiting — what, two worlds?" His voice dripped venomous sarcasm. "You wave that oversized key around for five minutes and suddenly you're an expert?"
Sora's cheeks flushed red, breath catching in frustration.
Before he could fire back, Sonic suddenly stepped between them, one hand up like he was trying to hold back an explosion.
"Let it go, Sora," Sonic urged, his tone calm but edged with urgency. "Trust me, picking a fight with Shadow only ends one way, and it's not worth it. Walk it off."
Shadow huffed softly, the slightest smug tilt pulling at the corner of his mouth.
"Yeah, Sora… or you might need an elixir or two after," Yuffie joked playfully, trying to improve the mood.
"I don't think this is the time for jokes, Yuffie," Aerith murmured, voice gentle but worried.
Yuffie shrugged. "Maybe not. But it beats the two of them fighting."
"You all know I'd win," Shadow said, tone icy.
"Wanna bet?" Sora snapped instantly.
"Sora, don't," Donald barked, hopping closer. "He's just tryin' to rile ya!"
"Yeah, pal," Goofy added softly. "Don't let him hook ya like that. Just breathe."
Shadow didn't even blink. "It's not my fault the kid cracks under pressure."
Sonic threw his head back. "Seriously?" he groaned. "Shadow, you're riling him up on purpose. Knock it off."
"The kid needs to learn how to take criticism," Shadow replied coolly, crossing his arms again.
"What did you say?" Sora shouted, voice rising — hurt now bleeding into anger.
"Enough."
Leon's voice cracked through the tension like the edge of his Gunblade.
Everyone turned.
He stood rigid, shoulders tight, eyes narrowed—not angry but done. The man exhaled slowly, rubbing his temple before letting his hand fall to his side.
"I don't agree with how he said it," Leon said, voice steady and carrying over the square,
"but Shadow's not wrong."
Sora's eyes went wide, throat tightening. "Seriously? You're siding with him?"
"I'm not siding with anyone," Leon replied coolly. "But growth takes more than instinct and heart." His gaze softened by a millimetre—not enough to comfort, but enough to acknowledge. "You've got both, Sora. But you still need skill."
Sora's frustration finally broke the surface.
He slashed the Keyblade through the air—a sharp, frustrated arc that cracked the silence. It wasn't aimed at anyone, just a small release. An exhale of hurt pride and bottled adrenaline.
"Fine," Sora muttered, chest rising and falling. "Then I'll prove it. I'll prove I'm not just some kid."
Sonic gave the teen a light elbow bump, just enough to pull him out of his head.
"Hey," Sonic said gently, voice lowered so only Sora and the immediate group could hear. "You've already come a long way, buddy. Don't let Shadow's edge dull your spark."
Sora glanced sideways. At first, his glare was still there—raw, wounded—but it softened as Sonic's words settled.
"…Thanks," he breathed. "Really."
Sonic grinned, bright, and sincere. The hedgehog flashed a thumbs-up to the boy. "Anytime, Sora."
Sora lowered his Keyblade, letting the light ripple through it as it vanished. The anger inside him settled, replaced by something steadier.
He wasn't strong enough yet. But he would be in time.
Sonic clapped him lightly on the back before turning to Shadow.
"So," the blue hedgehog drawled, hands landing on his hips, "since you're suddenly Mr. Constructive Criticism… got any ideas where our rookie heroes here can actually train up?"
Shadow met Sonic's stare, then shifted his gaze to Sora, Donald, and Goofy—judging, measuring, weighing them.
"The Olympus Coliseum," he said at last. "A nearby world. I ended up there after complications with Chaos Control."
Yuffie raised an eyebrow. "You teleported into a coliseum?"
"It's a combat arena," Shadow replied stiffly, refusing to dignify her phrasing. "Fighters from multiple worlds challenge each other there. Real matches. Real brackets. No shortcuts." His eyes drifted back to Sora. "If you want to toughen up, that's where you go."
"Other worlds?" Sora echoed, intrigued.
"Wait a minute. What about the World Order?!" Donald suddenly shrieked, feathers bristling. "You can't just go talking about other worlds willy-nilly! It's the rules!"
"They don't believe in it," Shadow answered bluntly.
"WHAAAAT?!" Donald exploded, hopping in place like an indignant kettle about to boil over.
Sonic quickly stepped in and placed both hands on Donald's shoulders before the duck could spontaneously combust. "Buddy, breathe. Chill. Chill. The World Order's important and all, but let's be real—some worlds just… know stuff."
"Like the AMS," Sora added.
"Exactly," Sonic said with an approving nod.
"It still doesn't make it right!" Donald quacked, trying to hop up and down, feathers puffing in outrage.
He only managed half a jump before Sonic tightened his grip on the duck's shoulders to keep him from spring-launching into orbit.
"Easy, champ," Sonic warned, bracing his feet. "You're gonna take off if I let go."
Donald quacked indignantly, still trying to wiggle free under Sonic's grip. "LET! ME! OBJECT!"
The duck's reaction drew instant looks from the group.
Leon let out a slow, resigned sigh, whilst Yuffie burst into a snort-laugh she tried, and failed, to hide. Aerith smiled politely, though the tiny twitch at the corner of her mouth betrayed her amusement. Sora rubbed the back of his neck, face pink with second-hand embarrassment, as Shadow didn't even bother to look their way; his disinterest was practically an art form.
Goofy, unfazed by all of it, nodded earnestly. "Gawrsh, Donald's right though. It is against the rules…"
"Not when the universe is in danger," Sonic countered, letting go of Donald and shrugging like that alone settled the debate.
"Huh?" Goofy muttered.
Leon stepped in, arms crossed. "If other worlds are already involved, the Order doesn't matter much. The priority is survival."
"Oh." Donald paused from his meltdown… then puffed up again. "Well I STILL don't like it!"
"Tough luck," Shadow said without even looking at him.
Donald bristled, feathers puffing so much he nearly doubled in size. He pointed his staff at the brooding hedgehog. "Why you—"
Sora quickly stepped forward and tapped Donald's weapon down with a nervous smile. "Donald, it's fine. Really."
Donald huffed but lowered Morning Star, glaring daggers at Shadow, who had already turned away in disinterest.
"So…" Sora continued, curiosity cutting through the leftover tension, "we can learn new techniques there? Get stronger?"
"Yes," Shadow replied bluntly. "If you survive the combat, you'll grow. If not—" he shrugged, "—you'll learn that too."
"Gawrsh!" Goofy exclaimed, tail wagging. "Sounds like a real good place to train! We'll be ready for whatever Eggman or the Heartless throw at us!"
"That's the idea," Shadow said simply. "Push your limits. Face real opponents. Find out what you're actually made of."
His tone was sharp, but the edge wasn't cruel. And for the first time, there was something else under it, intent.
Yuffie twirled her shuriken, grinning. "Battles in a giant arena with a crowd cheering? Yeah, that's my vibe."
Aerith smiled warmly. "It sounds like a wonderful opportunity. For all of you."
Shadow didn't smile, but his posture eased by a fraction.
"Make your mistakes there," he said quietly. "Not when the universe is at stake."
The words landed hard on Sora, Donald, and Goofy. But they made sense. For all his bluntness, Shadow genuinely wanted them ready.
"Well in that case," Donald muttered, clearing his throat. "We should get back to Cid. See if he's got our ship ready."
"Yeah," Sora agreed, renewed determination in his blue eyes. "I can't wait to start this training."
Sonic raised a gloved hand sharply. "Hold up, team. Aren't we forgetting something?"
Donald blinked. "Forgettin' what?"
Sonic smirked and jerked his head towards Sora. "The errand Cid gave us? Before Egghead turned the district into a scrapheap?"
Sora gasped. "Oh! The book!" He reached behind him, summoning it in a swirl of light.
Donald slapped both cheeks with a horrified gasp. "THE DELIVERY!"
"Gawrsh, we almost forgot…" Goofy muttered.
Leon turned his head slightly, eyeing the book in Sora's hand.
"A book?" he probed.
"Cid asked us to take this to an old house past the Third District," Sora explained.
Yuffie perked up instantly. "Oh! That place. Yeah, I know the route. I can take you."
"Thanks, Yuffie," Sora said with a relieved smile.
"Don't mention it," she replied proudly, hands on her hips. "Besides, it'll be good to check in with Merlin."
"Who's Merlin?" Sora asked, looking between the others.
Leon answered first, straight to the point. "Merlin's a powerful sorcerer."
"But he's kind," Aerith added warmly. "And very wise."
Even Shadow gave the faintest hum — a small, rare gesture of acknowledgement.
Sonic groaned loudly, dragging a hand down his face. "Ugh. Not another wizard…"
"Sorcerer," Yuffie corrected immediately.
"Same thing…" Sonic muttered.
Sora turned to him. "What do you mean?"
Sonic sighed, flicking a finger toward the sky as if revisiting war flashbacks. "Last time I dealt with someone like that, she tried rewriting an entire kingdom."
"…She?" Yuffie echoed.
"Long story," Sonic said quickly. "Involves a magical storybook, a talking sword, and way too many moral lectures about life, death, and immortality. I'm not emotionally equipped for that right now."
Aerith giggled behind her hand. "Well… in that case, let's call this one the good Merlin until proven otherwise."
"Sure thing," Sonic agreed.
Leon cast one last, sweeping look across the devastated plaza, already calculating repairs. "Aerith and I will stay here. Keep an eye out for any Heartless—or anything Eggman left behind."
Sora nodded, determination returning as he tightened his grip on the book. "We'll deliver this, then head for the Coliseum once the Gummi Ship's ready."
Shadow had already turned away when he paused mid-stride. He glanced over his shoulder, crimson eyes narrowing ever so slightly.
"Don't waste the chance," he said simply.
The words were quiet, almost too quiet, meant only for Sora.
But the teen heard him.
"I won't," he promised.
Shadow nodded once. "Good."
Yuffie bounced forward. "Alright! Delivery squad! Let's go meet the wonderful wizard of Traverse Town!"
Sora, Donald, Goofy, and Sonic fell in step behind her. Shadow lingered a moment longer, giving the ruined district one final, calculating once-over before turning silently to follow.
Aerith and Leon watched the group disappear around the corner, then finally turned to face what was left of the Second District.
A warped plate of Egg Emperor armour gave way and toppled over with a hollow clang, echoing through the square.
Aerith exhaled softly. Her staff dissolved into light as she folded her hands in front of her, shoulders lifting with a weary, rueful sigh.
"Well… that could've gone better," she sighed.
Leon rubbed the bridge of his nose with a long, suffering sigh. "That's one way to put it."
A sparking cable behind them let out a violent BZZZT! followed by a puff of smoke.
"I'm… definitely not cleaning this up," Aerith confirmed with a sweet smile.
Leon stared at her, deadpan. "…No. Absolutely not."
Aerith leaned in closer. "Maybe Merlin might help us? Just a little magic… a little sparkle… fix the whole district in, oh, five minutes?"
"I'll take anything," Leon admitted. "Even if he turns half the buildings into teapots first."
Aerith giggled behind her hand. "Let's… hope it doesn't come to that."
Chapter 18: Traverse Town: Second Visit – Part 3: Merlin
Summary:
A chaotic fight, a mysterious house, a missing wizard… and a vision Sora can’t explain. Merlin’s arrival brings new magic, new mysteries, and one very soggy Donald Duck.
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
The group spilled into the Third District, skidding to a halt on the wet cobblestones. The area wasn't empty; the gas lamps flickered ominously as darkness pooled on the ground. A squad of Heartless—twitchy Shadows and armoured Soldiers—writhed out of the void, blocking their path forward.
"Looks like the welcome committee's here," Sonic quipped, smirk widening.
"Then let's decline the invitation," Shadow said firmly, hands glowing with swirling red Chaos energy.
The Heartless slunk towards them, their movements liquid and predatory.
"Wait… did Shadow try and make a funny?" Yuffie asked, eyes wide as she stared at him.
"I think he did," Goofy chimed in, lifting his Stout Shield a little higher.
"…Don't get used to it," Shadow muttered bluntly.
"As amusing as it is, we don't have time to dwell on Shadow's standup routine right now," Sonic said, green eyes locking onto the advancing foes. "Let's move, team!"
"Right!" Sora nodded, dropping into his usual low, ready stance.
Sonic moved first, slipping past a Soldier's opening swipe and darting straight into the fray.
"You're too slow!" he taunted.
He made distance and curled into a ball, revving into a Spin Dash that tore through three Shadows in a bowling-pin strike. As he uncurled, Sonic leaped into the air, locking onto a Soldier and delivering a quick Homing Attack that shattered the creature into fading darkness.
"Chaos… Spear!" Shadow snapped his fingers, and yellow shards tore across the air, skewering the Shadows to the pavement before they burst into darkness.
"Hi-yah!" Yuffie shouted, sprinting past Shadow. She leaped into the air, her oversized shuriken spinning like a buzzsaw as she threw it. The ninja cleared through a group of Solider Heartless, turning them all into plumes of dark smoke. She landed gracefully and caught her weapon, giving it a whirl for dramatic effect. "Make way for the Great Ninja Yuffie!"
"Gawrsh, comin' through, Yuffie!" Goofy lowered his shield, charging like a raging bull. Yuffie had to dodge as the King's Captain bowled over a stubborn Soldier, sending it flying into a wall where it burst apart on impact.
"Take this! Thunder!" Donald raised his staff, calling down a jagged bolt of lightning that zapped a cluster of enemies, leaving them stunned and crackling.
"Nice assist, Donnie!" Sonic called out. Revving in to finish the job, Sonic's Spin Dash flared up with fire magic, cooking the Heartless stunned by Donald's thunder move.
Nearby, Sora was in the thick of it, swinging his Keyblade, Redemption's Echo, with ease. He slashed through a Shadow, pivoted, and aimed for a Soldier. "Take th—ow!"
He never saw the second Soldier. The Heartless performed a spinning kick, its metal foot connecting with a solid THWACK against the side of Sora's head.
"Ahh!"
"Sora!" Donald yelled.
Shadow appeared out of nowhere, teleporting directly between Sora and the enemy. With a grunt of effort, he struck down the Soldier with a brutal roundhouse kick, sending it dissolving into the ether.
Stumbling, Sora shook his head, literally seeing stars circling his vision. He took a wild, wobbling swing with the Keyblade—and it clanged loudly against a nearby lamp post.
"Did… did I get it?" Sora asked, wincing as the vibration rattled all the way to his shoulders.
"No. Wrong target!" Shadow barked. He flicked a Chaos Spear past Sora's ear, skewering an approaching Heartless and blowing it apart in a burst of black mist.
Sonic winced sympathetically. "Buddy, you're supposed to hit enemies, not streetlamps."
"Stop fooling around and focus, kid!" Shadow snapped, stepping ahead to cover Sora's wobbling stance.
"I—I am," Sora insisted, swaying like a palm tree in a hurricane, eyes struggling to stay level with the ground.
"Sora, you okay?" Sonic asked, raising a brow as he delivered a spinning kick to a Shadow Heartless, popping it into dark mist.
"I'm... I'm good!" Sora slurred slightly, trying to shake off the hit. "Just... adjusting the TV antenna..."
"…Right," Sonic murmured, exchanging a look with Yuffie; the ninja only shrugged.
"The kid's concussed," Shadow thought flatly. "Great. Just what we need."
Suddenly, the Soldier Heartless Sora had originally targeted saw its opening and charged towards him.
"Watch out, Sora!" Donald shouted, seeing the foe approach.
"Focus, pal!" Goofy yelled supportively as he clobbered a Shadow away with his shield.
Hearing their calls, instinct cut through the haze. Sora gritted his teeth, gripped the Keyblade with both hands, and delivered a heavy vertical slash that finished off the charging Soldier.
The battle ended as quickly as it began, with the few remaining Heartless slinking back into the shadows to escape.
"Yeah, you better run!" Sonic called out, cupping his hands around his mouth, watching them scatter away.
Silence returned to the Third District, save for the group's heavy breathing and the ozone crackle of fading magic.
"Nice work everyone," Goofy said proudly, dropping his shield to his side.
"Totally!" Yuffie agreed. She dusted off her shorts and casually reached into a pouch, popping a bright red piece of hard candy into her mouth.
Crunch.
Sonic's ear twitched at the sound. He zoomed over to her, a blur of blue motion.
"Whatcha got there, Yuffie?" Sonic asked, leaning in curiously. "Power-up? Energy boost?"
"Hard candy," Yuffie mumbled around the sweet. "Strawberry."
"Gimme." Sonic held out a gloved hand, wiggling his fingers expectantly.
"Get your own, hedgehog," Yuffie smirked, chewing loudly. "Ninjas need sugar for stealth."
"That makes no sense!" Sonic protested, throwing his hands up. "Sugar gives you a rush! You get jittery and hyper! You can't sneak around if you're vibrating loud enough to break glass!"
Yuffie rolled her eyes. "Pfft. Shows what you know." She raised a pointed finger into the air, explaining her theory with absolute confidence. "The sugar spikes my reflexes. I move so fast, I dodge the sound waves. I'm practically a ghost. It's advanced ninja science."
Sonic stared at her, blinking slowly. "That sounds completely made up." The hedgehog folded his arms, tapping his foot. "And I notice you're still not handing one over..."
"You're still not getting one."
"Mean."
"Enough with the childish squabbles," Shadow barked, cutting through the banter. "The kid ain't looking too good."
He nodded towards Sora, who was standing a few feet away. The boy was blinking rapidly, swaying slightly as he stared at the massive door marked with the flame insignia Cid had mentioned earlier.
"Is that door moving..." Sora questioned in confusion, tilting his head until he was almost sideways, "...or is the ground just really wavy today?"
"He's clearly concussed," Shadow stated flatly, gesturing at him.
"No way," Sonic scoffed, waving a dismissive hand. "Sora's fine. He's tough as nails. Aren't you, buddy?"
"Sure am, Mr. Needlemouse," Sora replied with a lopsided, dreamy grin.
Sonic blinked, his confident smirk faltering. "Mr. Needlemouse?"
"He is definitely concussed," Shadow deadpanned, crossing his arms tight against his chest.
"Well, he did take a solid whack to the head," Donald sighed, waddling over to the dazed teen. The duck mage raised his hand, splaying four white-feathered digits right in Sora's face. "Okay, Sora. Focus. How many fingers am I holding up?"
Sora squinted, sticking his tongue out slightly as he concentrated harder than he ever had in his life. He looked at the four fingers, did some complex mental math, and nodded confidently.
"...Thirteen."
"...Yeah, he's concussed," Goofy remarked, shaking his head.
"Told you…" Shadow muttered bluntly.
"Oh, for the love of—" Donald moaned, raising his staff, Morning Star, towards the sky. "Cure!"
Green healing energy swirled around Sora, lifting the fog of pain. The teen shook his head, blinking his eyes clear.
"Feeling better?" Donald asked.
"Yeah." Sora rolled his shoulders, then tilted his neck side to side. "Still feel a little sluggish—like my brain's wading through fog—but I'll shake it off."
"Good," Shadow snapped, gesturing to the massive door. "Because we don't have all night. Let's open that door already."
"You're up, Goofy," Sonic grinned, pointing at the knight. "You're the powerhouse after all."
"I am?" Goofy blinked, turning to the blue hedgehog.
"Sure are!"
"Gawrsh," Goofy chuckled, puffing out his chest.
"Enough pleasantries," Shadow said curtly. "Goofy, get that door open."
Goofy stepped up to the massive door confidently, placing his shoulder against the cold metal. He dug his shoes into the cobblestones, grit scraping against the floor. He pushed with all his might, his face turning a shade of red. The door groaned, but it held firm.
"Gawrsh, it won't budge!" he panted, wiping his forehead as he stepped back from the heavy door.
"Didn't Cid mention anything about using magic to open it?" Yuffie asked, leaning casually against the brickwork, unimpressed by the show of brute strength.
"No…" Sonic murmured, scratching his head as he thought back to the Accessory Shop. "Actually, he mostly just grumbled about his tea and slide the book towards us."
"Typical Cid…" Yuffie laughed. She fished another hard candy out of her pouch—lemon this time—and popped it into her mouth.
"Hey," Sonic's ears perked up instantly at the sound. "You sure you're not gonna share that candy?"
"Get your own," Yuffie teased, crunching the candy loudly.
"Wow!" Sonic spluttered. "After us saving your butt earlier and all…" The hedgehog shook his head in disbelief. "Also, ya know it's rude to talk with your mouth full, by the way."
Yuffie ignored him, crunched loudly, and then swallowed before talking again. "Come on guys, use your heads. It's a magic door. You need a spark. A big red one."
"Oh wow, I've been totally ignored!" gasped Sonic with mock surprise, placing a hand over his heart.
"Idiot…" Shadow uttered quietly to himself, closing his eyes unimpressed.
"I heard that Shadow…"
"Good."
"A red spark..." Sora mumbled, ignoring the hedgehogs. His blue eyes were unfocused as he stared at the door. Even though Donald's Cure helped, the blow to the head was still affecting his deductive reasoning. "Spark... bright... loud..."
"Yeah…" Yuffie said, tilting her head at the teen, waiting for the lightbulb moment.
"Is it… Thunder?" Sora guessed triumphantly, pointing his Keyblade at the massive metal door.
Silence fell upon the group. It was heavier and more oppressive than the darkness surrounding the town.
Sonic, Shadow, and Yuffie looked at each other. Then, in perfect, accidental synchronisation, they face-palmed. The sound of three hands slapping foreheads echoed across the quiet district. Goofy just looked at Donald, who let out a sigh so long it deflated his entire body.
"Chaos save me..." Shadow muttered under his breath, squeezing his eyes shut as if praying to be teleported away from this farce.
"Okay… think hard, Sora," Sonic laughed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Or, you know, look at the giant picture right in front of you."
"But Yuffie said spark?" Sora argued, his brow furrowed in genuine confusion.
"Yeah... but what's the symbol on the door, Sora?" Sonic asked, pointing a gloved finger at the very obvious, very large flame insignia etched into the metal.
"Try again," Yuffie laughed. "And this time, really concentrate. "And try not to hurt yourself, okay?"
Sora turned back to the door, squinting until his eyes were practically shut. He swayed slightly on his feet. "It's a... pointy... shape? Like a... angry leaf?"
"Oh, for crying out loud!" Donald stepped forward, his feathers ruffled with impatience. He nudged Sora aside with the end of his staff. "Move over! It's Fire!"
"Hey, I knew that…" Sora said quickly, crossing his arms and nodding sagely, despite looking a little pale. "I was just... testing you guys. Keeping you on your toes."
"Sure you were," Sonic smirked, shaking his head.
"Just get on with it, Donald," Shadow growled, turning his glowing red gaze to the duck mage. "The kid is still clearly concussed, and we don't have all day."
Sonic tilted his head, looking up at the eternal, star-filled sky that covered the world. "Technically, Shadow, it's always night here. So we literally don't have a day."
Shadow looked at Sonic. His red eyes narrowed into dangerous slits. "Please stop talking."
Ignoring the banter, Donald raised his Morning Star staff high.
"Fire!" he called out.
The duck mage unleashed a swirling fireball that slammed into the insignia. The flame symbol flared brilliant red, the mechanism groaning as locks disengaged with a heavy thud. Slowly, the massive door slid up, revealing the damp, echoing cavern beyond.
"About damn time," Shadow uttered, unfolding his arms and walking past the group without a second glance.
"Nice work, Donald," Yuffie said warmly, gesturing to the opening. "Come on, Merlin awaits."
"Yeah, let's go!" Sora cheered, shaking off the last of his dizziness to follow Shadow inside, with the others falling in line behind the teen.
Stepping through the heavy door, the group found themselves in a space that completely defied the architecture of the town outside. It was a massive, subterranean cavern illuminated by a faint, ethereal glow. The air was thick with humidity, and the sound of dripping water echoed rhythmically off the stalactites.
"Gee, I didn't know there was a place like this in Traverse Town…" Sora marvelled, his voice bouncing off the damp walls. Confusion etched his face as he blinked rapidly. "And I'm pretty sure that's not the concussion talking…"
"You feelin' any better, pal?" Goofy asked, looking around before turning his attention back to the teen.
"Kinda…" Sora admitted, one hand still pressed to his head.
"Hmmm." Shadow's voice cut through the cavern, drawing their attention. He was a few steps ahead of the group, arms folded as he surveyed the space. "It's like a pocket dimension. Hidden in plain sight. Clever." The hedgehog then gestured lazily across the glowing expanse. "But a bit damp for my taste."
"Agreed," Sonic chimed in, hands landing on his hips. "Impressive, but not my style either."
There was a wide, dark pond filling most of the cavern. In the middle of the water sat a small, solitary island, and perched upon it was a strange little house that looked remarkably like a clay pot with a red roof that looked like a wizard's hat.
"Is that it?" Sonic asked, tilting his head. "Kind of a fixer-upper, don't you think? Needs a fresh coat of paint... and maybe a window or two."
"That's Merlin's place," Yuffie confirmed with a knowing smirk, clearly amused by his critique.
"Gawrsh, really?" Goofy scratched his head, squinting at the structure. "I expected a big tower or somethin'."
"Yeah," Sora agreed. "It's a pretty weird-looking house for a wizard."
"Sora… do you know any other wizards?" Shadow asked bluntly, stepping up to the edge of the water, turning his head back to the boy.
"Uhh... no?"
"Then you wouldn't know where they usually live, would you?" Shadow scoffed, his tone dripping with condescension as he moved his head back to look across the large pond.
"Oof," Yuffie winced playfully, nudging Sora with her elbow. "You might want to cast Blizzard on that burn."
Sora looked down, scratching his cheek sheepishly with one finger as a flush of embarrassment coloured his face. Donald and Goofy exchanged a wide-eyed look, wisely deciding that staying silent was the best course of action.
Sonic let out a low whistle, shaking his head at the other hedgehog. "Jeez, Shadow. Who put salt in your coffee this morning? Cut the kid some slack."
Shadow merely grunted in response.
"Right, moving on," Sonic quipped, clapping his gloved hands together to break the momentary silence. He turned his attention back to the pond, gesturing with an open palm at the mossy stones floating precariously in the murky water. "I guess we need to cross on these stepping stone things to get to the wonderful wizard of the teapot house?"
"Sure do," Yuffie confirmed with a sharp nod.
Sonic looked back at the dark liquid, his ears flattening against his head. "Great… water."
"What's the matter, Sonic?" Shadow taunted mockingly, turning his head back towards the blue hedgehog. "Still can't swim?"
Sonic glared at him, his ears flattening. "…No."
"Pathetic."
"Listen here Shadow, I'm not taking lessons with a bunch of five-year-olds!" Sonic snapped defensively. "It's undignified!"
"Because they can smell your fear?"
"Exactly!" Sonic exclaimed, hands shooting out in front of him.
"Hmph… still pathetic."
"HEY!"
Yuffie looked surprised, glancing between Sora, Donald, and Goofy for an explanation.
"Uhh... what?" she asked, baffled. "Do I dare ask?"
"Let's just say Sonic and water don't mix," Goofy answered helpfully.
"Got it… I think," Yuffie admitted, looking back at the hedgehog with newfound confusion. "The Blue Blur doesn't like H₂O."
"Hey, I like water… when I drink it," Sonic expressed, gesturing down at the ground and his red and white shoes. "I just prefer solid ground."
Yuffie sniggered. "Some hero."
"Someone finally gets it…" Shadow taunted lowly, still not looking back to them.
"Watch it," Sonic challenged, jabbing a gloved finger Yuffie's way. Then he pointed the other hand's index finger at Shadow. "I'm still faster than both of you."
"Debatable," Shadow replied flatly.
"…At least Shadow and I can both swim," Yuffie added playfully, hands behind her back as she leaned forward with a smug grin.
"Yeah… but… gah!" Sonic shouted, arms shooting up before he turned and folded them stubbornly. "You're both chaos gremlins — one moody, the other a hyperactive!"
Yuffie's grin widened leaning back, knowing she'd won this verbal sparring match.
Sora, Donald, and Goofy let out a sturdy laugh, which only made the blue hedgehog sigh even louder.
Shadow gave an amused, dark hum before he spoke up. "I prefer to use the power I possess than swim."
"Huh?" Yuffie mused, looking to him and tilting her head.
"Let me show you."
With a burst of energy, the jets on his Air Shoes flared to life. He lifted off the ground, hovering a few inches above the floor, the damp air rippling beneath his soles.
"Okay... that's pretty cool," Yuffie admitted, impressed. "I so… want a pair!"
"See you on the other side," the hedgehog said bluntly, looking to the group before turning. Without touching a single stone or the water, he glided smoothly across, moving with effortless style.
"Show off…" Sonic sighed, deadpan, as he turned around and watched his rival glide away.
"Oh come on, you'll be fine," Yuffie grinned, stepping closer as she reached out to pat the blue hedgehog on the head.
Sonic froze. His ears lowered, and his green eyes flicked upward to glare directly at her hand.
"You can trust a great ninja like myself!" she added proudly.
"Err… Yuffie…"
"Yeah?"
"Are you seriously patting my head right now?"
"Um… yeah…"
"Please don't. I'm not five."
Yuffie blinked in surprise, then quickly yanked her hand back. She used the same hand to rub the back of her neck, trying to play it off as the others snickered close by.
"Right, sorry…" she chuckled awkwardly, recovering her swagger a second later. "But yeah, you'll be fine. Just don't fall in. I hear it's deep. Like— 'bottomless pit' deep."
"Faaaan-tastic…" Sonic exhaled, absolutely expressionless.
"Who told you it was deep, Yuffie?" Sora asked, puzzled.
"…Aerith," Yuffie confirmed.
Sora blinked. "Wait… Aerith fell in?"
"Oh yeah." Yuffie nodded firmly, amusement spreading across her face. The ninja pointed up at the roof. "She was trying to 'light up the ambience' with magic, slipped on some moss, and—" She dropped her hand and snapped her fingers. "—WHOOSH. Straight in."
Sora winced. "Oof…"
Donald and Goofy shuddered, while Sonic just raised a brow — though deep down, the story unnerved him more than he wanted to admit.
"She was fine, obviously," Yuffie added quickly. "Just very soggy. And very embarrassed. Don't tell her I told you." She leaned in closer and whispered loudly to the group, "She squeaked when she hit the water."
Sora gasped. "I'm absolutely not telling her that."
"Good." Yuffie grinned, satisfied.
"Gawrsh, can she swim okay?" Goofy pondered aloud.
"Totally," Yuffie said with a firm nod. She jabbed a thumb towards Sonic. "Anyone is a better swimmer than Sonic over here."
"Sounds about right," Donald chimed in smugly.
"You four are REALLY not helping!" Sonic barked as he glared at the water like it had personally insulted him. "At this point I'm expecting the pond to jump up and attack me!"
"Do you want one of us to go first?" Sora asked, his tone warm, reassuring, and a little amused.
"I'll go!" Donald spoke up loudly, eager to reassert his authority. He waddled to the front of the group with his chest puffed out. "Don't worry, Sonic. Let the brave leader go first."
Goofy and Sora chuckled slightly, while Yuffie just shook her head. Sonic's eyelids dropped halfway, his expression one of pure, unadulterated tolerance.
"After you... oh fearless leader," Sonic replied, giving a grand sweep of his hand towards the first stone.
Donald hopped onto the first floating stepping stone with a confident, smug grunt.
"C'mon, hurry up!" he said over his shoulder.
"My hero…" Sonic sighed.
Donald hopped to the second. Then, glancing back to ensure his audience was admiring his grace, he misjudged the distance of the third stone. His webbed foot slipped on the slick moss.
"WAK!"
SPLASH!
"Donald!" Sora cried out, moving closer to the edge, concern tightening his voice.
"Gawrsh, are you okay?" Goofy jumped onto the nearest stone, leaning down to try and haul the sputtering mage out.
"Wak! Phbbbt!" Donald spat out a stream of water, feathers completely sodden, hat drooping sadly over his eyes as he treaded water. "I... I meant to do that! Checking for traps!"
"Sure you did, pal," Sonic chuckled, giving a sarcastic thumbs up. "Smooth moves, brave leader."
"Shut up!"
The hedgehog laughed, dropping his hand. He eyed the stones ahead, then the water. He hated getting wet, but he hated going slow even more.
Suddenly, it clicked.
"…You can run on water, genius…" he thought sarcastically.
"Oh DUH!" Sonic exclaimed, smacking a palm to his forehead. "I've been such a knucklehead."
"What?" Yuffie asked, turning towards him.
"Sonic?" Sora echoed, glancing back from Donald.
The hedgehog dropped his hand and smirked, giving them a cheeky two-finger salute.
"Time to kick it up a notch," he said with cocky pride.
A blue aura flared around him. He revved his feet, the cavern filling with a high-pitched whine that made everyone — even Donald, still treading water — take notice. His legs blurred into his classic figure-eight loop, something he hadn't used in years but could still slip into with effortless muscle memory.
"Water? Meet speed!"
In a flash of cobalt light, the hedgehog took off.
Sonic hit the water hard — but didn't sink. He hydroplaned, skimming across the surface in a spray of mist before cleanly hopping onto the central island and skidding to a halt right beside Shadow.
"Okay… I wasn't expecting that," Sora admitted, rubbing the back of his head.
"Did he just remember he could do that?" Yuffie mused, hand on her chin.
Sora could only shrug.
Nearby, Goofy was doing his best to help a very annoyed, very soaked Donald.
"Do ya still need fishin' out?" Goofy asked, hopping onto the next stone to get closer.
"NO!" the duck mage barked, pride wounded and embarrassment flaring.
Over on the small island, Shadow didn't flinch as Sonic arrived, though he did side-eye the droplets the hedgehog had kicked up.
"Too easy. Piece of cake," Sonic said smugly.
Shadow stared at him deadpan. "Did you simply forget you could run on water?"
"Meh, it's been a long day," Sonic admitted with a sly shrug. "And hopping rocks? Way too slow. I prefer the direct approach."
Shadow let out a weary sigh, eyes closing in exasperation.
"I mean… I could've used the Light Speed Dash," Sonic mused, tapping a finger against his chin. Then he brightened, smirk widening. "But why not go with the classics, right?"
"You're such an idiot…" Shadow muttered flatly.
"Takes one to know one."
"Hmph," Shadow groaned, but didn't bite back… for now.
Sonic turned toward the others, cupping a gloved hand around his mouth.
"C'mon, guys!" he called. "The water's not that terrifying — I tested it for you!"
"We're coming!" Sora laughed, jumping carefully from stone to stone. He followed Goofy, who hopped with surprising grace for his size, while Yuffie skipped along behind them, balancing effortlessly on one foot before leaping to the next.
The party reassembled in front of the odd, pot-shaped house on the central island.
Well… most of the party, that is.
Donald, having stubbornly refused Goofy's help, was currently swimming the rest of the way. Grumbling and muttering incomprehensibly, he paddled through the murky water, creating a small wake of pure misery behind him. Finally, he dragged himself onto the island, feathers plastered to his body, shivering violently.
"It's t-t-too c-cold!" he moaned, grabbing his hat and wringing it out. A stream of pond water splashed onto the ground.
"You're a duck!" Sonic stated, looking at the shivering mage with a grin. "I thought you guys loved water?"
"I am a civilized duck!" Donald snapped, beak chattering as he shoved his sodden hat back on. "I prefer warm baths with bubbles!"
"Right, my mistake," Sonic chuckled. "Forgot about the high standards of the royal court."
Sora looked from the shuddering duck to the house, eyeing the front door. "Maybe Merlin can help you get warm?"
"Inside's normally nice and toasty," Yuffie confirmed. "Really cozy."
"Hurry up and open it then," Shadow remarked, dry and impatient. He nodded towards Donald. "Before the duck turns into a popsicle."
Before anyone else moved, Donald—shivering, miserable, and fuelled by pure irritation—marched up to the door. Instead of knocking, he lashed out with a webbed foot.
THUD. THUD. THUD.
Everyone stared, even Shadow blinked in bewilderment.
"…Okay," Sonic began slowly, arms folding, "that's definitely not how I'd knock on a stranger's door. But maybe it's a 'your world' thing?" He turned to Goofy. "Like a secret knock… but with your feet?"
"Uhh… we don't do that on our home world," Goofy said earnestly.
"Noted," Sonic nodded. "Donnie's just cranky… and cold."
"WAK!" Donald snapped, ignoring him and kicking the wood again. The door remained stubbornly shut. "It won't open!"
"Wait… you were trying to open it?" Sora asked, puzzled.
"Yeah!"
"You don't open doors by kicking them, Donnie," Sonic sighed. "That's rude… and probably a felony in, like, five different worlds."
Sora blinked at him. "Are you being literal, or is that one of your—" he wiggled his fingers awkwardly "—Sonic exaggeration things?"
Sonic snapped his fingers with a bright smirk. "Bingo! Look at you, getting the hang of my humour."
"He's learning," Yuffie teased.
"Not fast enough…" Shadow added flatly.
Before anyone could add to it, Donald suddenly exploded: "THEN WHERE'S THE HANDLE TO OPEN THIS STUPID DOOR?!"
Everyone paused. Then, as one, their eyes shifted to the door.
There was indeed no handle.
"…Okay, point taken," Sonic conceded with a shrug. "Still could've knocked like a normal person. Y'know—" he gestured vaguely, "—with hands."
"WAK!" Donald jumped up and down in frustration, though the movement was finally warming him up.
"Hmm, that's strange…" Yuffie murmured, tilting her head as she examined the door. "It's normally always open. And it definitely had a handle before."
"Must be locked…" Goofy said, scratching his chin.
"No, you think?" Shadow replied sarcastically.
"Yeah, I do."
Sonic snorted at Goofy's earnest comeback — or his total lack of understanding of sarcasm — but either way, it made Sora bite back a laugh. Yuffie hid her grin, and Donald only sighed with exasperation, shivering miserably. Shadow exhaled sharply through his nose, fully done with this group.
"Maria… why must I suffer these fools?" Shadow thought, red eyes narrowing.
"Well… if it's locked — and trust me, it is," Sonic said, giving the handleless door the flattest, most unimpressed stare he could muster, "then maybe there's another way in…?"
Before anyone could answer, he raised one leg theatrically, leaned back like he was prepping for a race, and blasted off in a cobalt streak. He circled the little house so fast the air whooshed in a perfect ring — then skidded back to his starting point, dusting off his gloves.
"Nope! No back door, no hidden hatch, not even a window you could wiggle through!" Sonic declared. "Guess Merlin's not a fan of side exits. Y'know, if there was a fire, that'd be no good—"
Everyone watched, bewildered, as the hedgehog suddenly pointed upwards, striking a stiff pose like a PSA announcer from a Saturday-morning cartoon.
"—Sonic Says: Always have at least two escape routes, kids! Safety first!"
He held the pose proudly as the group stared in absolute, painful silence.
"Okay…" Yuffie blinked slowly, finally breaking the stillness — even she thrown off for once. "...I'm sorry, what?"
Sora tilted his head, utterly baffled. "Sonic… who are you talking to?"
Goofy scratched the back of his head, looking around the small island. "Gawrsh… is someone else here?"
Shadow looked like he aged twenty years in ten seconds. Donald looked the same, but angrier…and wetter.
Sonic dropped his hand immediately, face flushing. "Forget it, old habit."
But then he jabbed a finger upwards again. "And remember — only you can prevent forest fi—"
"Please. Stop." Shadow begged, pinching his nose.
"Sorry, sorry," Sonic laughed, rubbing the back of his head. "Last one, I swear."
"I'VE ABOUT HAD IT!" Donald exploded, feathers bristling. His outburst physically startled everyone, even Shadow.
"Donald!" gasped Sora.
The duck stomped a foot. "FALLING IN PONDS! DOORS WITH NO HANDLES!" He jabbed a shaking, soggy finger at Sonic. "AND HIM!"
"Hey!" Sonic snapped, hands landing on his hips. "What did I do?!"
"BEING YOU! THAT'S ENOUGH!"
Sonic threw his hands out in protest. "Oh come on! I'm helping! I'm contributing! I'm—"
Shadow cut in without mercy. "Donald's right."
Sonic whipped his head towards him. "WHAT?!"
"You're obnoxious, you're loud, and you talk to imaginary audiences."
"They're not imaginary!" Sonic protested. "They're… uh… motivational!"
Shadow rolled his eyes, eyes closing. "Shut up, Faker."
"HEY — YOU'RE THE FAKER…FAKER!"
"No, I'm not."
"Yes, you—"
"WAAAAAAK!"
Donald's screech echoed off every wall in the cavern, making them all jump slightly.
He stomped in a tiny, furious circle until he was practically vibrating.
"I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE! THIS — IS — THE PITS!
THE!
P!
I!
T!
S!"
Each letter was punctuated by another furious stomp, sending water flying like angry raindrops.
The group — including Shadow — instinctively stepped back half a pace.
"…He's… unhinged," Yuffie whispered, uneasy.
Sonic leaned in slightly, eyes wide. "Okay, wow… that's new. Even for Donnie."
Shadow added bluntly, "He's finally reached critical meltdown."
"Totally," Yuffie agreed, with Sonic nodding too.
Goofy nodded gravely as well. "Gawrsh… I ain't seen him this steamed since he lost that Fruitball championship back home."
Donald froze mid-stomp, eyes twitching like a man reliving trauma as he stared a hole into Goofy.
"WE—DON'T—TALK—ABOUT—FRUITBALL!"
"Right! Right!" Goofy apologised quickly, gloved hands waving in front of him.
"Aw, don't get so mad, Donald," Sora chimed in smoothly, trying to calm the duck. He looked up at the dilapidated red roof, gently steering the conversation back on track. "Though… it doesn't really look like anyone lives here right now. It's kind of… abandoned."
"Geh, you think?!" Donald scoffed, trying — and failing — to swallow his rage.
"Maybe he moved?" Sonic suggested, scratching his head. He looked to Yuffie. "Left no forwarding address? Retired to a beach somewhere?"
"He hasn't moved or retired," Yuffie explained. "Merlin does like to go travelling, but he'd have told us if he was leaving permanently. He's considerate like that."
"Considerate enough to leave a note on the door… or y'know, not remove the handle?" Sonic mused, giving her a sideways stare.
"Ugh… you always have a comment for everything, don't you?" Yuffie muttered, unimpressed.
Sonic shrugged with a grin. "It's who I am."
Shadow huffed. "No. Who you are is annoying."
Sonic smirked back at him. "You say that like it's a bad thing."
Shadow rolled his eyes so hard it was a miracle they didn't warp space-time.
Before Sonic could fire back, the ground beneath them rumbled — even snapping Donald out of his fit.
The vibration hummed through their soles, and the wooden door didn't open; it simply faded, dissolving into swirling purple mist until nothing remained but a yawning, shadowy interior.
Yuffie's eyes widened. "…Okay, that's new."
Sora stepped back in surprise. "Doors don't normally… do that, right?"
"Only when they're haunted," Donald said darkly, shivering slightly.
Goofy gasped. "Gawrsh, I hope not…"
"Relax, Goofy — if something jumps out at us, Donald'll scream loud enough to scare it away," Sonic teased.
"HEY!" Donald snapped — irritation still in his tone, but noticeably calmer… and surprisingly warmer from his earlier meltdown.
Shadow ignored all of it. He strode forward without hesitation.
The brooding hedgehog was the first to move toward the opening, slipping inside with purposeful confidence.
The rest of the group followed him, crossing the threshold into what was supposed to be Merlin's sanctuary.
But instead of the cozy warmth, they were met with—
A completely empty, dim room.
"Sure is empty…" Goofy murmured, his confused voice echoing softly through the hollow space.
A circular room stretched out before them, bare, dusty, and silent. Everything was muted—stone floor, brick walls, and the lonely, raised platform in the centre, its spiral steps winding upward like a forgotten stage awaiting a maestro who never came.
The group stepped in fully, shoes and webbed feet tapping lightly, each sound bouncing off the walls as if the room itself hadn't heard noise in years.
"Looks like Merlin bailed on this place ages ago…" Sonic muttered, unimpressed.
Donald, still damp, let out a miserable, "Ahhh phooey…"
"And no warm fire for you either, Donnie…" Sonic added with a sympathetic wince. "Sorry, pal."
"Ahhh—double phoo—"
"ACHOOOO!"
"WOAH!" Sora yelped, nearly leaping out of his yellow shoes.
"WAAK!" Donald quacked, flailing so hard he almost spun full circle.
The whole group spun towards the source of the noise.
Goofy stood there sheepishly, rubbing the bottom of his nose with one gloved finger.
"Sorry, fellas…" he apologised, sniffling.
"Gesundheit…" Sonic sighed, shaking his head with a half-smile.
"Gawrsh… thanks," Goofy sniffed loudly, eyes watering slightly.
"Say it, don't spray it," Yuffie teased, waving a hand dramatically in front of her face.
Goofy chuckled bashfully, even as dust motes continued to swirl around.
"It's clear," Shadow spoke up, his red eyes narrowing. "Merlin has left this place behind."
"What? No way." Yuffie shot back immediately, turning to the hedgehog. "He wouldn't just bail."
"Even with the door locked and not having a handle…" Sonic chimed in, still unconvinced by her optimism.
"It opened up in the end, didn't it?" Yuffie argued.
"Yeah… but the door was still locked and handle-less when it vanished mysteriously," Sonic countered with a shrug.
"Relax," Yuffie said, waving a hand dismissively. "He hasn't moved."
"Oh really?" Shadow muttered, sweeping a hand across the empty room, his frown deepening. "Then care to explain the utterly barren, dust-ridden chamber we're standing in?"
"Well, errr…" Yuffie began, trying desperately to find an answer.
"Yuffie… let's be real for a moment," Sonic said, gesturing at the bareness around them like a salesman presenting a bad deal. "The wizard's gone. There is nothing here. This is desert-level abandoned."
Yuffie opened her mouth—
"ACHOOOO!"
"GOOFY!" everyone groaned in unison, turning to the knight.
"Sorry…" Goofy sniffed again, eyes still watering. "Dust really gets me…"
"Cover your nose and mouth next time," Donald groaned.
"Right, will do."
Shadow stared back at Yuffie expectantly. "You were saying…?"
Yuffie rolled her eyes dramatically, turning her attention back to the brooding hedgehog. "Before Goofy nearly blew the house down… Merlin must be out or something."
"Out?" Sonic echoed, throwing his arms wide. "Out where? No… he's gone. Look around, this place is emptier than a birthday party nobody showed up to."
Sora blinked, looking at him. "Birthday… party…?"
Sonic gestured around him. "Yeah! Y'know — balloons set up, cake ready, streamers everywhere… and nobody comes. Just emptiness… and loneliness."
Sora's face fell. "...That's horrible."
Goofy frowned sympathetically. "Gawrsh… that is kinda sad…"
Donald shivered and muttered quietly, "That happened to me once…"
Shadow stared at Sonic like he was dissecting him. "That is not 'sad.' That is catastrophic emotional abandonment."
"Wait…what?" Sonic mused, raising a brow at Shadow.
The dark hedgehog continued, deadpan and merciless. "You have described a scenario in which someone prepares joy, celebration, and warmth — and receives utter rejection. Total isolation."
"…Wow. When you say it like that… yeah," Sonic admitted, rubbing the back of his head. "That's… uh…yeah… super depressing."
"YOU said it!" Donald exclaimed loudly, pointing at him.
Goofy nodded solemnly. "That's real dark, Sonic."
"Shadow's totally right. That was, like… emotionally devastating…" Yuffie chimed in, raising her brows. She angled her head at Sonic. "You okay? Need a hug or something?"
"I do not need a hug," Sonic groaned, dragging a hand down his face. He pointed accusingly at Shadow. "And since when is he my therapist?!"
"Since you started needing someone to explain your own metaphors back to you," Shadow answered bluntly.
"Oof," Yuffie winced dramatically. "Buddy, that one's gonna bruise."
"Wait…are you implying something's wrong with me?" Sonic exclaimed, completely thrown.
Shadow huffed, arms folding tighter. "I'm implying you talk a lot without thinking."
"Hey!" Sonic sputtered, offended. "I think plenty!"
"Do you?"
"I—yes!"
Shadow lifted one sceptical brow. Yuffie snorted, Donald nodded like it was obvious, and Goofy gave a quiet, sympathetic, "Gawrsh…"
"Oh, thanks a lot, guys…" Sonic moaned, eyes half-lidded as he glanced at them all.
"Point proven," Shadow replied flatly.
"No, absol—" Sonic stopped himself mid-protest, threw his hands up in surrender, and sighed. "Alright, fine. Whatever." After a moment, he then shot Shadow a sideways grin. "But hey… takes one to know one, buddy."
"I'm not your buddy," Shadow replied immediately, blunt as ever. "I just simply don't like people overcomplicating simple things."
That made Sonic, Yuffie, Donald, and Goofy exchange looks.
"…Yeah, okay. That actually tracks," Sonic admitted.
"Fair point," Goofy nodded.
"Totally fair," Yuffie added.
"We're all in agreement with that one," Donald shrugged.
"So let's drop it," Shadow said firmly. "And move on."
"Agreed…" Sonic sighed in defeat. "But… you do brood."
"I don't brood."
"Kinda do."
"…Ugh."
Meanwhile — Sora.
Sweet, clueless, oblivious Sora.
He'd missed all the conversation, his brain still working out the party analogy.
"Wait…" he said quietly, blue eyes wide with innocent horror. "Why would nobody go to the party? …Who didn't show up? …And whose party was it…?"
The group looked utterly baffled by his response.
Shadow watched him in silence, unsure if Sora was joking or simply that innocent. He sighed inwardly: "He has absolutely no idea. Just perfect…"
Sonic sighed, placing his hands on his hips. "Don't worry about it, Sora. It wasn't a real story. Just an example, which Shadow seemed to dissect further."
Sora blinked slowly, then nodded. "…Okay?"
Sonic clapped his hands once, sharply. "Right, back on track. Yuffie."
Yuffie snapped to attention, two fingers pointed at him like pistols. "Yo."
"So… where is Merlin, huh?" Sonic pressed, raising his hands and beginning to count on his fingers. "The Accessory Shop? The Post Office? The grocery store? Wonderland?"
"He could be…" Yuffie argued, though even she could hear herself losing. "He could be running errands."
"Running… errands…" Sonic repeated flatly, hands dropping to his sides. "Really?"
"Yeah."
Shadow scoffed — loud enough to bounce off every wall. "Don't be absurd. Who packs up everything, vacates their home, and leaves it looking like a long-forgotten ruin just to run errands?"
"Merlin, apparently," Sonic cut in before Yuffie could defend herself, flashing Shadow a smug grin.
Shadow growled low, patience thinning. "What a colossal waste of time this truly is. We have better things to do, like training at the Coliseum."
"Okay… look, Merlin's a bit eccentric…" Yuffie tried again.
"Wow, really?" Sonic deadpanned, sweeping a hand dramatically at the emptiness. "Could've fooled me."
"But he's a good guy," Yuffie insisted, ignoring his tone. "You'll see when he comes back."
Shadow turned away sharply, arms crossing even tighter. "Whatever you say."
As the group bickered, mumbled, and Goofy tried desperately to hold back another sneeze, Sora wandered away from the group, shaking off trying to understand the birthday party analogy, he was drawn towards the farthest corner of the dim room.
Something in the air shifted as he approached — subtle, warm, like a breeze carrying fragments of sweet memories. The faint scent of sea salt and Papou Fruit washed over him, stirring a familiar warmth in his chest. A feeling of comfort… of home.
"There's something about this musty place…" a voice murmured suddenly — soft, familiar, a melody he knew better than his own heartbeat.
Sora froze as the breath hitched in his throat. His heart struck once, hard, against his ribs.
And then he saw her.
Kairi didn't emerge from the shadows — she simply was, as though she had been there all along. She moved with quiet grace, her form serene, walking as if the brickwork itself had let her pass through untouched by dust or time. Hands clasped behind her back, she gazed up at the brick walls with the same gentle curiosity she once held on the Destiny Islands.
"It reminds me of the secret place back home, where we used to scribble on the walls," she said softly, her voice threading memories. She paused near another section of wall, turning her head towards him. Her blue eyes shimmered with warmth, and the small, familiar smile that touched her lips tugged deeply at his heart. "Remember?"
"Kairi…" Sora murmured loudly, voice trembling, eyes wide with awe. He stepped forward — just a little — and reached out instinctively, as if she might truly take his hand if he got close enough.
But before he could get near her—
"Sora?" Goofy's worried voice cut sharply through the moment, slicing the haze like a burst of cold wind.
Sora jerked around, startled, finding the entire group staring back at him with a mix of confusion, concern, and full-blown bewilderment.
"Guys, it's Kairi," he said quickly, excitement spilling out as he spun back around. Look — she's right—"
His words collapsed instantly.
The space was empty. She was gone.
"K… Kairi…?" Sora breathed, his voice shrinking to a small, fragile note as his hand dropped slowly to his side.
"Kairi?" Sonic echoed, raising a brow as his expression softened. His green eyes flicked from Sora to the wall and back, a calm but worried look taking over.
"Yeah!" Sora insisted, turning back towards them fully, gesturing frantically to where she'd been. "You guys saw her… right? She was right there—"
"You were talking to the wall, buddy," Sonic said gently, folding his arms as concern crept into his expression.
"You okay, pal?" Goofy asked, worry softening his usually bright features as he leaned in slightly.
"Ahh, he must be tired," Donald teased, though the worry in his eyes was unmistakable. His beak twitched, trying—and failing—to hide it.
"No, I'm fine," Sora muttered, shaking his head in frustration, fingers curling.
"Then you're seeing things," Sonic said simply, tilting his head slightly.
"We didn't see anyone," Yuffie confirmed, brows raised, her playful tone vanished into genuine unease.
"I just… I don't know…" Sora sighed, head dropping down, shoulders sagging. "Forget it."
"Enough goofing around," Shadow said sharply, his tone slicing through the moment. "This is no time for daydreaming, Sora."
Goofy scratched his chin thoughtfully. "Unless he's still concussed?" he wondered aloud, glancing between Sora and the group.
"He could be…" Yuffie agreed, her lips pursed, arms folding as her gaze lingered on Sora with concern she didn't try to hide.
Donald waddled forward immediately, wet feathers still dripping.
"Quick, how many fingers am I holding up now?" he demanded, thrusting three digits up in front of Sora's face.
"Donald—"
"Answer the question, Sora."
"…Three."
Donald dropped his hand with a smug little nod. "Well, that settles that."
"What, he can count fine now?" Sonic said teasingly, raising a brow at the duck.
"No. He's not concussed anymore. More than likely thanks to my Cure spell earlier!" Donald declared, folding his arms to look important — and also because he was still freezing. The duck tried to look dignified despite being completely soaked.
"Right… good job, Doctor Duck…" Sonic remarked, hands on his hips and one foot tapping.
"What can I say?" Donald puffed proudly, turning towards the hedgehog. "I might have to—"
"Don't get any ideas," Sonic cut in sharply. "You're dangerous enough as a mage. Last thing we need is you running around with a medical degree… you barely heal us now!"
Donald bristled. "HEY! What's that supposed to mean?!"
"It means—"
"Enough." Shadow's voice cracked like a whip, his patience fraying visibly. "I have had enough of this foolishness."
Yuffie's eyes widened as she glanced his way. "Whoa… Shadow? You good?"
"No," the hedgehog snapped, his red eyes flashing with irritation. "Merlin is not here. This place is empty. We're wasting time with false deliveries, hallucinations, bad analogies, duck tantrums, and sneezing fits." His hands clenched at his sides as he turned sharply, but he paused midway, glancing back over his shoulder at the group. "We're leaving. Now. We need to get to the Coliseum and focus on something that matters — like training and preparing for the challenges ahead."
"Shadow, wait," Sora called, reaching out instinctively.
"Oh come on, Shads," Sonic said firmly, stepping forward. "I'm sure we can find out where he—"
"Well, well."
[Merlin's Magical House – Kingdom Hearts HD I.5 ReMiX plays]
The voice came from everywhere and nowhere.
They all turned towards the entrance, where the group saw an elderly man clad in flowing sky-blue robes and a tall, floppy wizard's hat. His long, white beard spilled down to his waist, nearly brushing the floor. Spectacles perched on his nose, his small black eyes twinkling behind the circular lenses. He held a worn carpet bag in one hand and a wand in the other.
"You've arrived sooner than I expected," the stranger in blue said warmly, his voice carrying a pleasant, grandfatherly cheer.
"Wha… You knew we were coming?" Sora stuttered, eyes widening as he stared at the elderly man standing casually in the open doorway.
"Of course. I am a sorcerer after all, my boy," the man replied pleasantly, as though the answer should've been obvious from the start.
"Wait, you're a sorcerer?" Donald repeated, feathers puffing as he hopped in place, shocked.
"So you must be—" Sonic began, until Yuffie practically cut him off.
"Everyone, meet Merlin!" she announced proudly, sweeping an arm towards the man like a game-show host revealing a luxury cruise prize.
"About time you showed up…" Shadow grunted, unimpressed, arms crossed so tightly it looked like he was trying to crush his own ribs.
"Shadow, show some respect," Sonic hissed, elbowing him lightly. He then gestured towards Merlin with exaggerated flourish. "He might turn you into a purple dragon or something."
Shadow shot Sonic a withering glare. "I highly doubt that."
Merlin chuckled, setting his bulging carpet bag down with a soft, echoing thump.
"I've no intention of turning anyone into a dragon today. Perhaps tomorrow. But today? No." He lifted his wand, tracing a slow arc through the air. A faint trail of light followed, illuminating the empty room as though he were reacquainting himself with it. "Ahh, it's good to be home."
"Where have you been?" Sora asked, curiosity bright and sincere.
"Yeah, and don't say 'getting groceries' or 'delivering mail,'" Sonic added, hands on his hips and features raised. "We are not buying the whole running errands thing."
"Oh no, no, nothing of the sort," Merlin laughed, waving the idea off. "I've been travelling the worlds. To places far from this one, carried along the lanes between."
"See? I told you he travels!" Yuffie said triumphantly, shooting Sonic a smug, victorious grin.
"So she was telling the truth," Donald admitted, pride creeping into his voice despite still dripping everywhere.
"…Okay, Yuffie, you were right…" Sonic conceded with a reluctant smile and a tiny, defeated sigh. "Fair enough."
Yuffie smirked like she'd just won the gold medal in Smug Olympics — grin full wattage, unashamed.
"Gee, Merlin, we thought you abandoned this place," Goofy said honestly, leaning slightly forward with gentle concern.
"Yeah, we thought you ditched town," Sonic added, throwing a thumb over his shoulder to emphasise his point.
Merlin raised a finger, eyes gleaming behind his spectacles. "Oh, hardly. I've simply been visiting worlds that are… shall we say, unusual."
"Unusual?" Sora echoed, leaning forward subconsciously.
"Like where?" Goofy asked, intrigued, tilting his head curiously.
"Places where the news is delivered through beats and dance," he began, tracing a swirl in the air with his wand, "Then a world where dreams spill into reality… and reality tumbles right back into dreams. And most recently—" his eyes twinkled, "a town where the sun forever lingers at the horizon, as though it can't quite decide whether to set or stay."
The group exchanged looks — impressed, mystified, and fascinated by the strange, but poetic descriptions.
Well… everyone apart from Shadow. His expression remained flat, irritated, and aggressively unimpressed.
"He's talking nonsense," Shadow muttered with a sharp exhale. "We don't have time for this."
Merlin stopped in his tracks, turning towards the dark hedgehog. His smile widened beneath his beard. "My, my. A stern one, aren't we… Shadow the Hedgehog?"
Everyone froze — even Yuffie was caught off guard by the direct callout.
Shadow's frown lifted by a fraction. "…You know me?"
"Of course," Merlin said with a casual wave of his hand, as if the answer were obvious. He moved back to his bag. "Many remarkable stories involving you travel the worlds. They're somewhat… dramatic. Wouldn't you say?"
Shadow stiffened, unsure if that was praise, an insult, or both.
Merlin pivoted smoothly towards Sonic next, his expression brightening. "And you, my boy — it's good to see you."
"Good to see you too but… uh…" Sonic replied, baffled. "I don't know you, Merlin?"
"Oh, but I know you," Merlin assured him warmly, tapping the side of his head. "The famous Blue Blur. Tales of your speed span many worlds."
"Really?" Sonic breathed, jaw dropping into a perfect cartoon 'O.'
"Indeed!" Merlin chuckled, turning swiftly to Donald and Goofy. "And as for you two — your King asked me to help train Sora in the magical arts."
"The King?!" Donald sputtered, wet feathers puffing straight outward. "He did?!"
"Indeed." Merlin's tone shifted, gentle but serious, as his gaze finally settled on Sora.
"And Sora… you possess the Keyblade — a weapon of extraordinary power. It does not choose its wielder willy-nilly, you know."
"Really?" Sora murmured in genuine surprise, glancing at his empty hand as if expecting Redemption's Echo to materialise on cue.
"Yes. But first…" Merlin scooped up his carpet bag, humming cheerfully as he strolled past the group. He climbed the winding stone steps towards the raised platform at the centre of the room. The others instinctively gazed upwards. "We must make this place liveable!"
"Great!" Sonic cheered, giving Merlin a thumbs-up — which he then redirected towards Donald. "Also… could you turn the heat up? Donnie's freezing."
"I fell in the pond outside…" Donald muttered, deflated.
"Was one heck of a splash," Goofy added helpfully.
"Don't remind me…"
Merlin laughed heartily, beard bouncing. "Well! We can't have that, can we? Time to spruce things up." He raised his wand high with theatrical flourish. "Presto!"
Suddenly, Merlin's bag exploded in a cloud of sparkling, silver-blue magical dust, like a firework blooming in slow motion. From within the enchantment, tiny, doll-sized furniture shot into the air — a bed no bigger than a shoebox, miniature shelves, chairs, and even a tea set clinking lightly as it hovered. Each piece spun gracefully in perfect choreography, as though Merlin was conducting an invisible orchestra.
With each wave of his wand, the items grew mid-spiral, expanding into full-sized furniture just before landing exactly where they belonged. A bed spiralled into the corner with a soft thud, bookshelves marched into place and instantly filled themselves with worn tomes, and a tea set hopped onto a table, the pot giving a jaunty little wiggle like it had opinions about where it should sit.
A glowing hearth erupted to life behind them with a pop, washing the once-cold room with warm, golden light.
"Whoa! That's way faster than any moving crew I've ever seen!" Sonic laughed, sidestepping as a chair twirled past him like it was auditioning for a dance show.
"It's gotten hotter in here too," Sora acknowledged, tugging at his collar as warmth flooded the room.
"About time," Donald said — practically melting as steam rose gently from his feathers. "I'll dry off in no time."
Even Shadow, despite every effort to look unaffected, watched with curious eyes as raw, elegant magic reshaped the chamber around them.
"…Convenient," Shadow admitted at last. His tone was cautious but… genuine. "Yet…somewhat impressive."
"Wait. Did I just hear a compliment?" Sonic teased, cupping a gloved hand around his pointed ear as he leaned dramatically towards Shadow. "Go on, say it again."
"No."
"Oh, come on, I totally heard you say you were impressed."
"We heard it too," Goofy chimed in cheerfully.
"Sure did," Yuffie added, hands behind her back, leaning forward with a grin.
Shadow exhaled a long, resigned sigh. He unfolded his arms, closed his eyes, and muttered, "It's impressive… yes."
The group's reaction was instant: Sora blinked in surprise, Goofy's jaw dropped, Donald tilted his head, and Yuffie's eyebrows shot straight up — all four equally stunned at Shadow of all people giving a compliment.
Merlin alone chuckled knowingly.
"Well I'll be…" Sonic mused, arms folding as he shot Shadow a playful smirk. "Didn't know you were into magic tricks, Shadow."
"Drop it…" Shadow said firmly, turning to the blue hedgehog. His eyes were sharp, but not cruel. Something softer flickered behind them, tugging at the surface of a memory. His voice lowered suddenly. "It's just…"
Everyone quieted, instantly sensing the shift.
"Shadow?" Goofy asked gently.
"What is it?" Donald added, his tone unusually soft.
Sora stepped closer, concern warm in his voice. "Are you okay?"
Shadow stared at the newly restored room — the warmth, the drifting sparks of residual magic, the books sliding neatly into place. It was a place of wonder, the kind that someone gentle would have loved.
"…Maria would have liked this moment," he said finally.
Sora's expression softened instantly. "Maria…?"
"Who's that, Shadow?" Goofy asked carefully.
"She was someone special to me," Shadow said simply, eyes drifting to the floor. His voice wasn't sharp or guarded — just quiet. "That is all I'm saying for now."
"Oh, come on," Sora said gently. "You can tell us."
"Yeah, we're a team," Donald added, unusually soft-spoken.
"Maybe another time," Shadow replied, eyes rising. He wasn't cold or defensive. Just… honest.
Yuffie's expression softened. She had learned about Maria earlier — about the girl who shaped Shadow's heart, the loss that still lingered quietly behind his stoic exterior. She caught Sonic's eye, and Sonic nodded back as if to say: "Let him share in his own time."
Yuffie nodded in silent agreement.
"Okay…" Sora said, resting his hands behind his head. His melancholy lasted barely half a second before his excitement surged back. His arms shot forward into eager fists. "Still — that was amazing, Merlin!"
"Yeah!" Goofy agreed with a big grin.
"Very impressive," Donald added, standing a bit straighter to show respect.
"Why thank you," Merlin replied warmly, giving them a small, graceful bow.
Sonic turned to him with a smirk. "Merlin, you must be a real wiz at birthday parties!"
"Oh, my boy, you have no idea," Merlin chuckled, stepping down from the platform. "Now then… I believe you have something for me, yes?"
"Gawrsh, how did ya know?" Goofy wondered aloud, tapping his chin.
Merlin chuckled. "Ah, knowing things comes with the job description, my friend."
"Wizard, sorcerer… great and powerful Oz— I mean, Merlin. The guy that knows everything," Sonic rambled before snapping to look at Sora. "Buddy, the book."
"Oh! Right!" Sora reached behind his back and pulled out the battered old book as if it had just been waiting there. "Cid sent this."
Merlin accepted it reverently, fingers gliding over the worn cover, tracing the frayed edges like he was greeting an old friend.
"Ah… this book," Merlin murmured. "It will need repair. Magical repair." His eyes softened. "I will tend to it."
"Is the book anything special?" Donald asked, intrigued.
"Hm." Merlin rotated it thoughtfully. "I'm afraid it's nothing interesting…" he said with a sigh. "Well, not for heroes like yourselves."
"Really?" Sora asked, brow rising.
"I'm afraid not. A shame, too — years ago I possessed many books that unlocked one's true potential…"
Shadow's red eyes flicked up — sharp, alert. That sensation again. A tug that felt familiar, almost like a thread being pulled.
Merlin spoke on, seemingly unaware of Shadow's shift. "And there was another book — quite fascinating — about a very small fellow who went on a very big journey. But that book is misplaced for now."
"Wow…" Sora breathed.
"Sounds like a good story!" Donald chimed in.
"Kinda cool!" Goofy said admiringly.
"Let's hope you find it soon," Sonic added with a thumbs-up.
Shadow remained quiet… but the pull pressed deeper. A whisper tugging at his mind: "Light… broken… calling…trapped."
A presence, faint but insistent.
And beside that whisper came another memory — Maria, sitting in the ARK's library, legs swinging as she devoured books with bright eyes and boundless wonder, dreaming of faraway places. She would have adored the magical book Merlin spoke of, just as she once loved the stories of Daybreak Town and the Keyblade.
"Perhaps once I repair this book," Merlin said, lifting the book with care, "you can learn more about it."
"That would be swell!" Goofy said happily.
"Thanks, Merlin," Sora added, giving him a respectful bow of his head.
"Don't mention it, my boy."
Before Merlin could tuck the book away, Sonic stepped forward. He pulled back the fold of his glove, revealing the bracelet fully. The metal caught the light — and Merlin's attention.
"Hey, Merlin? Speaking of fixing things…" Sonic held the bracelet up. "My pal Tails turned this old necklace into an Element Conduit. Right now I can channel Fire through it, but I kinda wanna broaden my horizons. Ice, Thunder — the works."
Merlin leaned in, adjusting his spectacles with keen interest. "Fascinating craftsmanship… a conduit for elements and memories."
"Yeah… it belonged to an old friend," Sonic said softly. His smile dipped into something warm, nostalgic. "Tails did all the hard work, but he's busy setting up his shop across town. So I figured… maybe you could help tune it up?"
"Well of course!" Merlin beamed as he stepped forward. With a quick flick of his wrist, he stowed the book, then raised his wand, the tip shimmering with a soft light. "Hold still, my boy."
Sonic extended his arm as Merlin tapped the bracelet lightly with the wand—
CRACK—SPARK!
Suddenly, a burst of blue and yellow magic leapt from the wand like a living thread, weaving itself through the bracelet's surface. Runes spiralled briefly beneath before fading.
"Whoa!" Sonic gasped as magic pulsed up his arm, tingling through his whole body. "Okay, that's new!"
Sora blinked at the glow. "Wow…"
Goofy leaned forward, hands braced on his knees. "Gawrsh…"
Donald's beak hung slightly open in awe.
Yuffie whistled low, impressed. "Nice. Stylish and practical."
Even Shadow's eyes widened, his version of a full double-take.
Merlin stepped back, pleased with his work. "There we are. It will now adapt to the magical energies you collect. Blizzard and Thunder should answer your call."
"Sweet. Thanks, Merlin!" Sonic said gratefully, watching the bracelet flicker from red, to blue, to bright yellow. "Nice touch!"
"Pretty," Sora said warmly, leaning in.
"Yeah!" Donald agreed with a nod.
As the last glow faded, Goofy looked from Sonic… to Donald… to Sora… and his shoulders drooped.
"Gawrsh…" he sighed.
Donald glanced over, puzzled. "Goofy?"
"What's wrong?" Sora asked gently, taking a small step towards him.
Goofy rubbed the back of his neck. "Well… I guess I'm just a lil' jealous of you fellas."
"Jealous?" Donald asked in surprise. "Of what?"
"I just… I wanna broaden my horizons too. Maybe learn a spell or two? It'd be real nice to help out with somethin' more than bashin' things with my shield…"
Merlin's expression softened as he stepped towards the King's Captain.
"Goofy," he said warmly, "never underestimate the magic of defence. To protect others is the greatest spell of all."
Goofy blinked, touched to his core.
"But…" Merlin continued with a little smile, "I will see if I can find a technique that suits your… unique style."
Goofy lit up instantly. "You mean it?"
"Of course."
"Gawrsh, thanks Merlin!"
"You're most welcome. Now—" Merlin turned towards Sora swiftly. "Since you brought me the book, I believe a trade is in order."
"A trade?" Sora echoed, blinking.
"Indeed." Merlin lifted his empty palm. "Abra— Kadabra!"
FLASH!
A burst of warm orange light filled the room. When it faded, a small orange-brown stone floated above Merlin's hand before dropping neatly into his palm. A tiny monkey face was carved into it, polished and expressive.
"A… stone?" Sora said, eyebrows rising.
"It's more than a stone," Merlin chuckled. "It's a Summon Gem — the Jungleglow Gem, to be precise. Inside rests the heart of a being whose courage was so strong, he survived the destruction of his world. Rather than fading into darkness… his heart crystallised into this."
"Wait, that can happen?" Sonic asked, eyes widening as he leaned closer.
"Oh my, yes," Merlin replied with a firm, knowing look.
"I'm still waiting for the day someone finds Bahamut's gem…" Yuffie sighed dreamily, hands clasping together.
"Bah–a–what now?" Sonic blinked, turning to her.
"Don't worry about it," Yuffie waved quickly. "It's way too epic for you to handle, hedgehog."
Sonic narrowed his eyes suspiciously. "I'm starting to think you're messing with me here."
"Nope. Very real," Yuffie insisted, tapping her temple with confidence. "Summon lore goes deep. Dragons, deities, kaiju-scale stuff."
"Huh… neat," Sonic admitted with a small smile — partly impressed, partly unconvinced.
Merlin offered the gem to Sora, holding it like a fragile treasure. "Now then — allow me to demonstrate." He lifted his wand with a flourish. "Alakazam!"
The gem pulsed as a swirling sphere of orange light burst outwards. Inside it, a tiny monkey formed, encased in a transparent plastic ball with an "A" on his orange shirt. He chattered excitedly.
"Awww, he's precious!" Yuffie squealed, hands pressed to her cheeks.
"A monkey in a ball?" Donald blinked, baffled.
"Sure is a cute lil' fella," Goofy said warmly, bending down to get a better look.
Shadow tilted his head slightly. "…That's unexpected."
"So who's the little guy?" Sonic asked, leaning in with a grin.
"This is AiAi," Merlin explained proudly. "A courageous soul whose world of tilting mazes and bananas fell to darkness. His heart shone so brightly it became this Summon Gem."
Sora's grin lit up like sunrise on the islands. "Hi buddy!"
He tapped the ball lightly, AiAi flipped joyfully inside.
"To summon him in battle," Merlin instructed, "channel your energy through the Keyblade. The gem will do the rest."
"Wow, thanks again, Merlin," Sora said warmly, looking from AiAi to the wizard.
"It's quite alright, my boy," Merlin replied with a fond smile. "Take good care of AiAi, and he will take good care of you."
"I will," Sora promised, slipping the gem safely into his pocket. AiAi chattered, bounced twice, then vanished in a bright pop of light — ready to be summoned another time.
"As heartwarming as this introduction was," Shadow cut in dryly, "Olympus Coliseum awaits. We should be leaving now."
"Oh, right! Training!" Sora replied turning towards him, then to Merlin. "I know I keep saying it, but… thanks again, Merlin!"
"Anytime, my boy," Merlin chuckled. Then he cast a playful glance at Shadow. "And remember, my door is always open. Even for brooding hedgehogs like our friend Shadow here."
Everyone turned towards Shadow.
The dark hedgehog blinked once… then allowed himself a rare, tiny smirk as he nodded back.
"…Hmph." He turned to the main group, features sharpening. "Let's move."
"You guys go ahead," Yuffie said, placing her hands on her hips. "I've got catching up to do with Merlin."
"Aren't ya supposed to help Tails with his new workshop?" Goofy asked, leaning in slightly.
"He'll survive without me for an hour," Yuffie shrugged. "Besides, I owe Merlin a few updates."
Sonic sighed, but his smile stayed warm. "Fair enough."
"Come on," Sora urged, already moving towards the exit. "Let's get back to Cid's."
"Our ship and Jiminy await," Goofy added.
"Oh, Jiminy's with Cid?" Sonic mused. "Good. I was starting to think he fell into a trash can somewhere."
Donald groaned. "He's the responsible one, Sonic!"
"Exactly! That's why I worried!" Sonic grinned.
The group headed for the open doorway, waving — well, everyone except Shadow, who strode silently behind.
"See ya later!" Yuffie called after them, waving back. "Good luck with training."
"Farewell, friends," Merlin said with gentle fondness, bowing his head slightly. "Keep safe."
As the departing group faded into the cavern outside, Merlin slowly turned to Yuffie — his eyes sparkled with that familiar, knowing mischief… yet layered with something older. Heavier. As if he'd glimpsed a page of fate no one else could see.
"Err… Merlin?" Yuffie asked uneasily. "What's with the spooky-grandpa stare?"
The wizard hummed, low and thoughtful, tapping the tip of his wand gently against his beard.
"Our new ally, Shadow…" Merlin murmured at last, gaze drifting towards the empty doorway. "His heart carries echoes."
"Echoes?" Yuffie repeated, brows shooting up. "You mean, Maria?"
"Yes," Merlin nodded, tone softening. "One echo is of the past — pure, fragile, cherished." Then his eyes sharpened behind his lenses. "But there is another. A voice reaching for him even now."
Yuffie stiffened. "…A voice? Calling him from where?"
"That," Merlin said, lowering his wand slightly, "is the curious part."
"Curious, how?" Yuffie probed.
"This second echo is neither living nor lost," Merlin continued. "Not darkness… not light. Rather…" His eyes half-lidded in deep concentration. "…a heart displaced. A presence walking the twilight between both."
The word twilight sent a chill up Yuffie's spine.
"You can sense all that?" she asked, rubbing the goosebumps rising along her arms.
"Oh, indeed," Merlin replied with a faint, knowing smile. "The hedgehog's fate is entwined not with this mysterious echo, but with forces older than any spell book on my shelf… older than most worlds still standing in the lanes."
Yuffie swallowed. She didn't know why, but she suddenly pictured dark stars, red eyes, and something ancient whispering from beyond the veil.
"Okay… so that's Shadow." She gulped. "What about Sora? Or Sonic? Anything weird with their hearts?"
"With Sora…" Merlin said cryptically, "light and darkness swirl within him like the turning of twin moons. Also, two hearts brush against his own, though he has yet to understand the weight of that yet."
"…Okay."
"And Sonic…" Merlin continued, his gaze drifting upwards as if following an unseen constellation. "His heart is bright — fiercely so — but carries embers of many memories. Some forged through battle… some borrowed in darkness… and others waiting to awaken when the world needs them most."
"Okay, what does that all mean?" Yuffie asked, exasperated, and intrigued in equal measure. "You just dropped, like… three prophecies at once!"
"That," Merlin said with a mischievous wink, "is another story… for another time."
Yuffie stared at him, slack jawed. "…Seriously? After all that cryptic mumbo-jumbo you're just gonna leave me hanging?"
"In time," Merlin replied gently. "Truths will find their way to the light, as they always do."
He suddenly clapped his hands, shattering the heavy mood like breaking glass. "Now then! Tea?"
Yuffie let out a long breath she hadn't realised she'd been holding. Slowly, her shoulders relaxed, tension melting.
"Yeah… tea sounds perfect," she said with a shaky smile. "And maybe something sweet? That whole talk gave me goosebumps."
Merlin chuckled. "Oh, my dear girl… when dealing with destiny, goosebumps are only the beginning."
"…You'd better make that a strong tea, Merlin," Yuffie muttered — half-joking, half-nervous.
Notes:
And with that, the Second Visit to Traverse Town is officially wrapped up!
I'll still be adding Jiminy's Journal entry, along with a couple of small follow-up scenes, but this marks the end of the visit and the start of our next big journey. Expect the journal chapter to be uploaded by next week.
I genuinely hope you enjoyed this chapter and the entire second visit.
The chapter leans loosely on the KH Novel, especially Donald falling into the pond surrounding the cavern.
We got so much in this chapter, plus some nods to the future of the series.
Also, AiAi is here - Sora's first summon!
Reworking this arc for the Re:Master has been the most fun I've had writing in a long time — diving back into these worlds, polishing the interactions, and rebuilding moments from the ground up has been an absolute blast.
Thank you all so much for the support. It really does mean the world.
Next stop: Olympus Coliseum — coming January 2026!
I've got a few other stories to wrap up before 2025 closes, but once the new year rolls in, we'll be kicking off a new arc with fresh energy.
Thanks again, and see you all in the new year!
Disclaimer: Super Monkey Ball is owned by Sega and developed by Amusement Vision.
Chapter 19: Jiminy's Journal - Traverse Town Second Visit
Chapter Text
[Collection Room (File Select) - Sonic Generations starts playing]
Jiminy's Journal
Chronicles:
Traverse Town Second Visit
Part 1:
Gosh, it sure felt nice to return to Traverse Town after all that rain and ruckus in Venice!
Warm lights, quiet streets (for now), and not a single zombie—er, “controlled mutation”—in sight.
Right away, we bumped into Tails and Yuffie outside Cid’s. Tails was starting a brand-new workshop, and Yuffie warned us (very seriously!) never to interrupt Cid’s tea time.
But the biggest surprise came down in the caverns… Sonic’s rival, Shadow the Hedgehog, was here! He’s a bit… prickly, but golly, he seems strong.
We learnt that the worlds are disappearing when the Heartless reach their Keyholes—that’s what happened to Sora’s home… and Sonic’s world too. Now more than ever, Sora needs to keep sealing those Keyholes tight!
Cid promised to build us a new Gummi Ship, but not before sending our heroes on a little delivery job. Just as the group stepped outside with the book—CRASH! Something huge hit the Second District, and a trembling citizen said Leon, Aerith, and Yuffie were trapped!
Sonic and Shadow bolted off like fireworks, and the rest followed.
I’ll leave the heroics to them for now…
Part 2:
I wasn’t in the Second District when it happened—but hoo boy, did the others have a tale to tell once they caught up with me!
Doctor Eggman had arrived and decided to turn the Second District into his own personal playground. He rolled into town with a giant golden robot called the Egg Emperor, and from what Leon, Aerith, and Yuffie described… the whole place looked like a war zone.
The three of them tried their best to hold the line, but the Egg Emperor was tougher than a heartless-filled fortress! Magic bounced off it, weapons barely scratched it, and Eggman insulted just about everyone (Yuffie did not appreciate the comments about her shoe size!).
Lucky for them, Sonic and Shadow showed up just in time.
Once Sora, Donald, and Goofy joined in, the whole team worked together and brought the Egg Emperor down in one spectacular explosion!
Eggman escaped but not before shouting that he “hated hedgehogs” and that Traverse Town’s architecture was confusing (I can’t say he’s wrong about the second part…).
Even after the victory, Shadow had some choice words for the group… and not the friendly kind. But his advice led to something important:
if Sora and the others want to get stronger, they’ll need to train at the famous Olympus Coliseum, a world not far away from Traverse Town.
Part 3:
While I stayed behind a Cid’s shop, the others headed into the Third District to deliver his book — and it sounds like things got hectic fast! According to Sora, Sonic, Donald, Goofy, and even Shadow (in his own… brooding way), a whole swarm of Shadows and Soldiers ambushed them the moment they arrived.
Sonic zipped through them, Shadow used Chaos Spear, Donald zapped a few with Thunder, Yuffie joined in with that giant shuriken of hers, and Goofy even bowled a Soldier into a wall! Sora took a nasty hit to the head (the poor boy thought a lamp post was a Heartless!), but Donald patched him up quickly.
Past all that, the team found a strange cavern hiding a tiny house on an island. Sonic didn’t like the water one bit, so he ran across it instead. Donald fell in showing off, of course he did…
Inside the little house was… absolutely nothing! Sora swears he saw Kairi for a moment, but no one else spotted her. Before they could figure it out, the owner of the strange house arrived at last, Merlin!
Merlin explained he’d been travelling the worlds and restored his home with a flick of magic! He even upgraded Sonic’s bracelet, dried Donald’s feathers, and gave Sora a new Summon Gem containing a brave little monkey named AiAi.
Sounds like the visit ended on a high note.
Next stop: Olympus Coliseum — and knowing our heroes, I’d better keep my journal handy.
Character Files:
Shadow the Hedgehog
Voiced by: Kirk Thornton
The mysterious “Ultimate Lifeform,” Shadow is stoic, cold, but fiercely driven. With Mobius lost to the darkness, he now joins Sora and Sonic—not out of friendship, but necessity—to recover the Chaos Emeralds and hunt down the mysterious force calling out to him.
Shadow commands incredible abilities, using Chaos Energy to warp space, unleash devastating attacks, and strike with unmatched precision. Though distant and blunt, his strength is unquestionable, and his resolve unshakable.
Shadow first appeared in Sonic Adventure 2 (2001), quickly becoming one of Sonic’s greatest rivals… and most powerful allies.
Doctor Eggman
Voiced by: Mike Pollock
A self-proclaimed genius with an ego bigger than his own mechs, Doctor Ivo “Eggman” Robotnik is a scientist determined to build his own empire. Brilliant, bombastic, and endlessly persistent, he’s caused more trouble across Sonic’s world than most Heartless combined.
With Mobius swallowed by the darkness, Eggman’s set his sights on new worlds to conquer. Armed with towering machines like the Egg Emperor and a genius IQ he never lets anyone forget, he won’t stop until the stars themselves bow to his “Eggman Empire.”
A long-time nemesis from Sonic the Hedgehog (1991), Eggman is as dangerous as he is dramatic.
Merlin
Voiced by: Jeff Bennett
A kindly but eccentric wizard who lives in a little house tucked away in Traverse Town. Merlin is cheerful, knowledgeable, and more than a little scatterbrained — but when it comes to magic, few in any world can match his skill. Requested by the King himself, Merlin has been tasked to guide Sora’s magical training and offer support to Sonic and the others as they travel between worlds.
Merlin first appeared in The Sword in the Stone (1963) and has been popping into new worlds ever since, sometimes quite literally!
AiAi
A brave little monkey from a cheerful, maze-filled world that fell to the Heartless. Rather than fade away, AiAi’s strong heart crystallised into a Summon Gem — the Jungleglow Gem — allowing Sora to call on him for help in battle. With quick reflexes, a sturdy spirit, and a trusty transparent ball to roll around in, AiAi brings speed, balance, and a surprising amount of courage to the fight.
AiAi first rolled onto the scene in Super Monkey Ball (2001), rolling his way into players’ hearts one adventure at a time.
Special Entries:
Metal Sonic
A cold copy of Sonic built by Doctor Eggman, Metal Sonic is speed and danger forged into steel. Designed to surpass the Blue Blur in every way, he’s silent, relentless, and far more ruthless than his organic counterpart.
Sonic insisted I add him to the journal—apparently the last time Metal went rogue, he transformed into Metal Madness and then Metal Overlord, nearly conquering Mobius!
Though we haven’t crossed paths with him yet, Sonic warns that Metal Sonic never stays gone for long.
First introduced in Sonic CD (1993), Metal Sonic remains one of the Doctor’s most dangerous creations.
Orbot
Voiced by: Kirk Thornton
A sleek, floating assistant robot built by Doctor Eggman, Orbot is the poor soul stuck doing the Doctor’s paperwork, diagnostics, damage control… and apologising for him. Sarcastic, polite, and surprisingly thoughtful, Orbot is the closest thing Eggman has to a conscience.
While he hasn’t appeared before Sora and the others yet, reports from Sonic and Shadow describe Orbot as loyal but long-suffering, with a knack for pointing out flaws in Eggman’s plans.
First introduced in Sonic Unleashed (2008), Orbot proves that even in an evil genius’s army, someone tries to keep the chaos organised.
Cubot
Voiced by: Wally Wingert
A yellow, boxy robot built by Doctor Eggman, Cubot is Orbot’s enthusiastic counterpart. Friendly, cheerful, and not always the sharpest tool in the workshop, Cubot often means well—but usually ends up causing more problems than he solves.
Like Orbot, he hasn’t crossed paths with Sora and the gang yet, but Sonic and Shadow know of him. Cubot’s loyalty is unwavering, even if his common sense isn’t—and while he’s technically part of the Eggman Empire, he’s more comic relief than combat threat.
First appearing in Sonic Colors (2010), Cubot proves that not every minion of evil is cut out for villainy… some are just trying their best.
Chaos Emeralds Found: 3 / 7 - (Green and Blue – Sonic. Red – Shadow)
Master Emerald Shards Found: 2
Ansem Reports Found: 1 - (Ansem Report 6)
Summon Gem: 1 – (AiAi)
[Collection Room (File Select) - Sonic Generations stops playing]
Maleficent’s Domain – Lower Level
[Villains of a Sort – Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Re:MiX plays]
Eggman stormed into the chamber, utterly infuriated. The domain’s machinery hummed around him, mocking the Doctor with its calm rhythm.
“Oh, that boy with his oversized yellow shoes and irritating friends!” Eggman scoffed, pacing in a tight circle around his temporary base of operations. “Ruining my moment of bringing a glorious sliver of the Egg Empire to that ridiculous, back-water world! The audacity of it all!” He threw up his hands in fury. “I hope that brat gets a nasty knock to the head for pretending to be a hero—HA!” The doctor dropped his hands down with a huff. “Would serve him right! Maybe then he’d think twice before waving that giant key around like it’s some kind of license to meddle in my affairs!”
Suddenly, images of Sonic and Shadow tearing through the Egg Emperor flooded his mind. Eggman halted mid-stride, stomping one foot down with all the petulance of a man who refused to accept defeat. His gloved fists clenched tightly at his sides.
“And don’t get me started on those blasted hedgehogs—oh, how I loathe them so!” he groaned, dropping into a resentful rumble. “I expect Sonic to ruin my day. That’s practically tradition at this point. But Shadow?” He threw his hands up again in theatrical annoyance. “We’re practically family, for crying out loud!”
“Disappointing…”
The word curled through the chamber like smoke, coming from everywhere and nowhere at once.
“Oh, wonderful…” Eggman muttered mockingly, irritation replacing his anger. “Just what I needed.”
Maleficent materialised from the darkness, her steps unhurried.
Eggman folded his arms, tapping one gloved finger impatiently. “Well? Go on then. Get it over with.”
She stopped just shy of him, gazing with faint, amused cruelty. “Your Egg Emperor was no more than a tantrum wrapped in armour.”
Eggman puffed up defensively. “It was a finely tuned masterpiece of engineering! A marvel! A feat you—”
“—could not keep intact for even a single encounter,” she finished darkly.
The doctor sputtered, momentarily speechless. Maleficent turned as though already bored, drifting towards the shadows once more.
“Are you only here to act cryptically and insult me,” Eggman snapped, “or is there something important lurking behind all this condescension?”
“I was on my way,” she began, her voice smooth, “to discuss the progress regarding the two acquired from Wonderland.” She paused mid-stride, posture still as a statue. “But…”
Eggman’s patience snapped. “Oh, for the love of—enough with the mystery. Spit it out already!”
Maleficent’s head tilted as she turned slightly. A cold, cruel smile touched her lips. “We experienced… an unexpected arrival.”
“An unexpected arrival?” Eggman repeated sceptically, though intrigue tugged at his voice. “Who?”
Maleficent stepped aside, revealing a figure framed in the doorway—sleek blue metal gleaming, red eyes burning. The machine was unmistakable to the Doctor.
“M–METAL SONIC?!” Eggman burst out, his voice cracking with shock.
The steel doppelganger of the Blue Blur glided soundlessly into the chamber, stopping at the Doctor’s side. Metal folded his arms, mirroring his organic counterpart’s arrogant stance with uncanny precision. His crimson optics drifted across the room before locking onto his creator beside him.
“He was found wandering between worlds,” Maleficent explained, tone drifting towards satisfaction, “until he was discovered by our newest… asset.”
“Asset?” Eggman questioned sharply.
“A boy of considerable talent. He proved his worth by bringing this construct into our fold.”
“I—well—yes, of course, but I should have been the one to find him!” Eggman sputtered.
“Then perhaps this reunion will help you correct your earlier mistake,” Maleficent said coolly. She moved again and reached the threshold, back turned. Eggman’s features sharpened into a frown as he looked at her. “Locate the Keyhole of Traverse Town, as you were originally ordered too. Metal Sonic may serve better than that lumbering Emperor of yours.”
Eggman scoffed, though the sting was evident. He glanced down at Metal, who stood perfectly still—except for the brightening of his red optics, now locked forward in silent readiness.
“But before you set off to fix your fault, I have one more task for you,” Maleficent added, pausing yet again.
Eggman threw his arms up. “By all means—pause dramatically a little longer. The suspense is killing me!”
“…Follow me,” she said darkly. “I’ll explain more.”
“Always cryptic…” Eggman muttered, shaking his head. “Fine, tell me as we move.”
With that, Maleficent vanished into darkness.
Eggman grumbled under his breath, already weary of Maleficent's cryptic theatrics. At his side, Metal Sonic’s eyes flared a sharper crimson—awaiting new orders.
Chapter 20: On the Road to Olympus
Summary:
With Olympus Coliseum set as their next destination, the journey between worlds offers a brief moment of levity—though tensions run high aboard an aging Gummi Ship. Elsewhere, a young swordswoman seeks the trials of a legendary trainer, proving her resolve against the darkness. But not all struggles are so visible. As shadows stir beyond the lanes between worlds, an unseen voice reaches out—calling to a power that refuses to ignore it.
Notes:
Just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone leaving kudos, bookmarks, and comments. It really means a lot!
Notes at the end.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
[World Selection – Kingdom Hearts HD I.5 Re:MiX plays]
The request had been crystal clear from Cid.
"You break it, you pay for it."
Those were the last words he'd thrown at our heroes before they left Traverse Town—gruff, echoing, and still ringing loud enough in their heads that even Sonic hadn't joked about it. Much.
They had transport, sure... just not the shiny new Gummi Ship they'd been promised. Cid still hadn't finished building their replacement; the man needed parts he didn't have yet—and he needed Tails to help install the ones he did, once the fox was done setting up his new workshop.
After a bit of negotiating and one single, silent, soul-piercing glare from Shadow that said, "Any ship will do."—Cid finally relented and handed over the keys to a battered spare parked at the World Gate.
It wasn't pretty, but it flew. Mostly…
In the cockpit, Donald manned the pilot's seat with Goofy as co-pilot, while Sora and Sonic squeezed into the two seats behind them. There were only four seats, meaning Shadow had disappeared somewhere to brood in peace, or threaten whatever bolts dared squeak too loudly.
Donald, meanwhile, was wrestling with the ship like it personally offended him. The seat was stiff, the thrusters lagged, and the handling felt like someone had glued the steering to a bowl of jelly. Worst of all was the big, unexplained red button on the console. Knowing Cid, it would either trigger something dangerously explosive… or dispense tea.
The duck wasn't willing to find out which.
The navigation system finally dinged with their route to Olympus Coliseum, but the blinking trail suggested the journey would take a while. Spirits were high enough… until—
"Ugh! This seat is annoying me!" Donald complained, shifting for the fifth time in a minute.
"That's the problem with rentals, Donald," Goofy said sympathetically, adjusting some dials in front of him. "They're never the same as yer own."
"We had to get the worst ship ever!" Donald groaned, tugging at the controls. "The steering's all over the place!"
"Hey, I thought you were an ace pilot…" Sonic chirped from behind him, leaning back with his hands behind his head, smirk sharp as a razor blade.
"I am!" Donald argued.
"You're not acting like one," Sonic replied, amused.
Donald mumbled something under his breath—the group only caught something that sounded suspiciously like "hedgehogs and their big mouths."
Sonic decided to stir the pot even more.
"You know… I bet Tails could fly this thing in his sleep," the hedgehog added casually. "He wouldn't complain about how clunky it was. He'd relish the challenge."
"Well that fox ain't here!" Donald snapped, twisting to glare at him. "If you're gonna keep complaining, then you fly!"
"Whoa, easy there, Donnie…" Sonic eased, lifting one finger without rising from his laid-back pose. "I run, remember? Flying ain't exactly my lane."
"Then stay in your lane," Donald shot back sharply, eyes snapping to the path ahead.
"Touchy…" Sonic mumbled.
Donald didn't even dignify that with words, he just let out a loud, suffering sigh that felt like the entire Oceans Between could hear him.
"Wait…" Sora piped up, turning towards Sonic. "Didn't you tell us you owned a plane once?"
"When did I tell you that?" Sonic mused, head tilting lazily in his direction.
"You told us back at Cid's," Goofy chimed in from his seat. "Said Tails could build a new ship quicker than Cid could."
"Oh yeah…" Sonic laughed. "Ol' Cid didn't look too pleased about that one."
"Gee, I wonder why?" Donald muttered, dripping with sarcasm.
"Who knows," Sonic shrugged—clearly knowing exactly why but absolutely choosing to wind the duck up further. He let his arms drop and looked back to Sora. "Anyway… to answer your question, yeah, I did have a plane. But it was more for show! Tails is the one who actually knew how to use it. I just made it look cool."
"So… you don't know how to fly?" Goofy asked curiously.
"...Not really."
"Then don't be a backseat driver!" Donald barked, eyes locked straight ahead.
"I'm not—!"
"You kinda are," Goofy admitted gently.
"Maybe leave the flying to Donald, Sonic," Sora added with a grin.
Sonic threw up his gloved hands. "Fine, fine! You'd think I insulted the guy's magic the way he's acting."
"It's the ship, not my magic!" Donald corrected sharply, not even glancing back.
"…Still touchy," Sonic whispered to Sora in a not-so-quiet tone.
Sora chuckled, which made Donald's eye twitch, but he kept quiet. Goofy just shook his head and held onto his easy optimism.
As his laughter faded, Sora leaned in slightly, squinting at the navigation screen.
"So… we've got a while until we're at the Coliseum?" he asked.
"Yep," Donald said flatly, mood firmly sour.
"'Fraid so, pal…" Goofy added.
Sora slumped back in his seat with a sigh. "...Great."
"…Anyone up for eye-spy?" Sonic offered hopefully.
"No." Donald shot back without hesitation.
"Wow. Okay. Sorry I asked," Sonic muttered, folding his arms.
"Gawrsh," Goofy said after a moment, brightening. "Maybe we can pass the time with a song?"
"A song?" Sora repeated, tilting his head toward him.
Donald's eyes widened in dread. He knew exactly where this was going.
"Oh no. Don't you—"
But it was already too late.
Goofy drew in a huge, theatrical breath, one gloved fist braced in front of his mouth. Sonic raised a brow, intrigued. Sora blinked, half-curious, half-confused.
"Do ya need a break from modern livin'?" Goofy began cheerfully.
Donald almost launched out of his seat. "NO. NO, NO, NO—NOT THAT ONE!"
Goofy turned, blinking at the stressed-out pilot. "Aw, but it's a classic, Donald."
"It's the worst one!"
"Even worse than the hot dog song?"
"...Okay, second worst. But still!"
Sonic grinned, instantly betraying him as he looked at the duck. "Nah, let him cook, Donnie." His head swung back towards Goofy. "C'mon, Captain Goof—hit us with more."
"If your nerves are frazzled and ya feel all fried," Goofy sung happily, swaying in his chair. Sonic snapped his fingers while Sora tapped his legs. "Just grab some pals and take a ride, together on the—"
"DON'T SAY IT!" Donald shrieked.
"—uh… slightly unsafe borrowed Gummi Ship," Goofy finished, improvising with a big smile.
"TERRIBLE!" Donald shouted. "That doesn't even rhyme! I'm gonna lose my mind before we even land at this rate…"
"I dunno…" Sora laughed despite himself. "It's kinda catchy."
"See? Sora's got taste," Sonic said, snapping his fingers and pointing at the teen. "I'm feelin' it too."
"STOP ENCOURAGING THIS!" Donald snapped, feathers puffing as he wrestled the controls. The ship gave a tiny wobble as his temper spiked.
Goofy kept singing anyway, bopping his head. "There's nothin' that can upset me, 'cause now we're—"
"We are NOT turning this into a musical number while I'm piloting!" Donald yelled. "No singing, no dancing, no—no snapping—"
Sonic snapped louder on purpose. "You sure? I think the ship handles better on the beat."
"IT DOESN'T!"
Sora was laughing openly now. "Oh, come on. Maybe the song's helping, Donald. You're flying straighter."
"That's because I am a PROFESSIONAL!" Donald protested. "Not because of some—some goofy road song!"
"Aw, thanks, pal," Goofy said, taking it as a compliment.
Donald opened his beak to shout again—when the console crackled to life with a sharp breep-breep-breep and a familiar, grumpy voice filled the cockpit.
"Hey! You folks havin' fun?" Cid's face flickered onto the comm screen, large toothpick bobbing at the corner of his mouth. "Ship mics are tied into the diagnostics. I can hear every off-key yodel from here."
Donald sagged in pure relief. "Cid! Thank goodness!"
"Oh, so now you're glad to hear me," Cid snorted. "Sounded like you were about two verses away from a meltdown, Donald."
"I was!"
Sonic leaned forward into view. "For the record, I was fully on board with the musical direction."
"Me too. This ship runs on happy faces," Sora added with a grin.
"Yeah, sure… power o' positivity…" Cid replied dryly. "Listen up: When you're comin' up on Olympus Coliseum's world gate. Try not to scrape the paint off my spare, got it? It's already a piece of junk; I don't need you makin' it worse."
Donald straightened instantly, gripping the controls like his life depended on it. "Aye-aye!"
"Hey, Cid, before you go off for your sixth tea break of the day and complain about the younger generation…" Sonic chimed in, voice dripping innocence, "I got a question."
"Watch it, hedgehog," Cid warned. "And for the record, I'm thirty-five."
"You're thirty-five?!" everyone blurted.
"...Yes," Cid deadpanned.
"Huh," Sonic said. "Had you down for at least fifty."
Donald let out an involuntary snicker, still annoyed but unable to help himself. Goofy covered his mouth to hide a grin, while Sora's shoulders shook in amusement.
Cid's eye twitched. "You guys done bein' ageist, or do I gotta start mutin' you one by one?"
Sonic lifted his gloved hands in surrender, smirk not fading an inch. "Okay, okay, serious face now." He immediately failed to look serious when his hands dropped. "So my question… what's that big red button on the console actually for?"
"Oh that thing? Technically it's an auxiliary matter-reallocation sub-routine wired into the ship's micro-converter," Cid explained. "In simpler terms…" He jabbed a thumb sideways as he spoke. "It reroutes a trickle o' engine heat through a compact synth unit and spits it out as boiling water. Push it, wait three seconds, you get a steaming mug in the cup holder. I slapped a tea bag dispenser under the console. Congratulations—ya got a built-in kettle."
Sora blinked. "So… it's a tea button."
"'Course it is. This is my ship," Cid said dryly, as if that explained everything. "Mystery solved."
Sonic whistled low. "Knew it. Tea dispenser."
"Yup. You're free to use it," Cid added, eyes narrowing, "but you're payin' for the refills. I ain't runnin' a charity."
"Cheapskate…" Sonic muttered under his breath.
Cid's brows dropped. "What was that?"
"Oh, uh—cheese plate!" Sonic blurted. "Just thinkin' what would go great with all that tea."
Cid stared at him for a long, suspicious beat, then grunted and turned his attention elsewhere, namely to the co-pilot's seat.
"Goofy?" Cid said bluntly.
"Yessir?" Goofy asked.
"Save the singin' for when you're not wired directly into my speakers."
Goofy chuckled sheepishly. "Gawrsh, sorry, Cid."
The comm cut off with a crackle. For a moment, the cockpit was quiet—Sora glanced at Sonic, who only shrugged back; Goofy rubbed the back of his head, and Donald finally started to relax.
Until—
"So, once we land… second verse?" Sonic piped up, tone deliberately aimed at Donald.
Donald's strangled noise was loud enough to rattle the cockpit.
Sora and Sonic burst out laughing, and even Goofy couldn't help but join in. Donald let out another long, suffering sigh, feathers slowly settling.
As the laughter faded, Sonic's smirk dimmed into a thoughtful look. He glanced around the cockpit.
"Sonic?" Sora asked, curious. "What's up?"
"Just realised something," Sonic replied, looking over at him. "I figured Jiminy would've popped out by now to get in on all this. Where is the little guy, anyway?"
"Oh!" Goofy perked up. "From what I remember, he's with Shadow… I think. Prob'ly gettin' his journal up to date with his help."
Sonic stared at Goofy sitting in front of him. "Shadow. Helping Jiminy. Shadow the brood-with-a-side-of-glare hedgehog."
"It's true," Donald muttered, still fighting with the controls. "Jiminy said he wanted to ask Shadow some stuff. Sounded all serious."
"'Stuff'?" Sora repeated, tilting his head.
Sonic leaned back, imagining it, and couldn't stop the grin that crept onto his face. "Mysteries of the universe, huh? A chronicler interviewing a walking storm cloud. Kinda wanna see that." He unbuckled and pushed himself up from his seat. "I'm gonna go check on them. Make sure Shadow hasn't scared Jiminy into early retirement."
"Okay," Sora said, smiling.
Sonic stepped towards the cockpit door; it slid open with a soft hiss. He paused, glancing back over his shoulder.
"Oh…and don't start the second verse without me," he warned lightly.
"Sure thing, pal," Goofy said cheerfully.
"No singing!" Donald barked.
Sonic just waved him off with a chuckle and stepped through the doorway.
"I wonder if this new world's gonna have some kind of singing initiation," he mused aloud as he strolled down the corridor. "Bet Donnie's got a set o' lungs on him. Maybe I can make him sing 'Open Your Heart' or something…" He snorted to himself. "Yeah, right. He'd throttle me before the first chorus."
Still grinning at the thought, Sonic slipped his gloved hands behind his head and sang a few bars of the track under his breath as he headed off to find Shadow and Jiminy.
"Open your heart… it's gonna be all right."
Meanwhile – Olympus Coliseum – Arena
[Olympus Coliseum – Kingdom Hearts HD I.5 Re:MiX plays]
Sadly for Sonic, there was no such thing as a singing initiation at Olympus Coliseum.
Here, initiation was trial by sweat, tears, bruises, scraped knees, bashed egos, and the occasional fireball.
To be the absolute best, you trained hard. And to train here, you had to impress one satyr in particular.
Philoctetes— or Phil, to anyone who survived him.
He was the legendary trainer of heroes at the world-famous Coliseum.
But the name "Olympus Coliseum" wasn't just famous in his own world anymore; word had drifted through the Oceans Between. Wanderers, warriors, and would-be heroes kept showing up at his doorstep, all wearing the same bright, annoyingly hopeful look in their eyes:
Train me.
Right now, one pair of those eyes was looking down at him. Blue, sharp, and with one iris just a touch brighter than the other, like a spark of fate hiding in plain sight.
Phil squinted up from the sandy, stone-dusted floor, hands planted on his hips. The stands were empty; just the two of them and the echo of crowds that didn't actually exist.
"So, it's Lucy, right?" he asked, chewing the words like they personally offended him.
The young woman standing before him straightened, one hand resting lightly on the hilt of the sword at her hip. Blue hair flowed behind her like a banner, her cloak still faintly dusty from travel.
"It's Lucina," she corrected politely. "Of Ylisse."
"Yeah, yeah, Lu-ci-na," Phil repeated, waving a stubby hand as if he were swatting a fly. "Princess, right?"
She hesitated, then nodded once. "Yes. But I did not come here as royalty. I came as a swordswoman seeking training. I was told this arena shapes heroes."
Phil eyed her up and down, snorting. "People say a lotta things. Most of 'em are wrong. Anyway, lemme see the goods."
"The… goods?" Lucina echoed, puzzled.
"The sword, kid!" Phil barked, gesturing at her hilt. "You wanna be a hero, you don't hide your weapon like it's some kinda party favour. Draw it."
She flushed but obeyed. Lucina's sword slid from its sheath with a clean ring, the blade catching the afternoon light. The golden guard glinted; the gem in the hilt pulsed faintly, as if answering her resolve.
Phil's eyes narrowed. For a second, he looked impressed.
"Huh," he muttered, a little moved. "Fancy. It got a name?"
"Falchion," Lucina replied simply. She held it with both hands, tip lowered but ready. Her stance was careful and measured—the posture of someone who had drilled a thousand times in quiet courtyards.
"Falchion, huh…" Phil murmured, rubbing his chin. "Looks like the kinda thing that comes with destiny, a tragic backstory, and maybe a prophecy or two."
Lucina stiffened slightly; he wasn't entirely wrong.
"Yes… something like that," she admitted softly.
"Relax, kid. I've seen worse. I trained Hercules." He puffed out his chest proudly, smirking. "You might've heard o' him. Big guy, muscles on muscles, strong chin you could hang laundry on."
Lucina blinked, trying to decide if that was meant as a joke or a boast. "Is he… your strongest student?" she asked, tone serious but curious.
"Eh. He's on the list," Phil said with a dismissive wave, though a hint of respect slipped through. "Point is, I know heroes. An' I know wannabes. You wanna prove which one you are?"
Lucina tightened her grip on Falchion, shifting it to her dominant hand. "That is why I am here."
"Good. 'Cause talk is cheap." Phil spun, pointing towards the centre of the arena. "Listen up! I got a lot of rules—but these are my three golden ones!"
Lucina straightened, eyes sharpening. "Okay…"
Phil stomped once, dust kicking up around his hooves. His voice boomed across the empty stands as he laid down the law:
"One: you do not break my Coliseum. Any cracks, dents, or mystic apocalypses, you're payin' for 'em! And if you're a princess, you've definitely got the cash."
Lucina's brows lifted in faint alarm.
"Two!" Phil jabbed a finger at Lucina, circling her once like a drill sergeant sizing up a recruit. "You keep your butt movin.' Stand still, you're dead meat."
Lucina followed him with her eyes, swallowing once and adjusting her stance instinctively.
"And three!" He stomped again, kicking up sand. "You listen to me. I say 'duck,' you don't ask why—you just duck. Got it?"
Lucina nodded quickly, a bead of sweat sliding down her temple. Between the heat of this world and Phil's sheer presence, the young woman felt herself straighten involuntarily. For someone so short in stature, he was a mountain of satyr in attitude.
"Understood," Lucina confirmed with a slow, firm nod.
Phil grinned up at her, sharp and approving. "Good. 'Cause here comes your entrance exam."
Phil snapped his fingers sharply.
Suddenly, a pool of shadows spread across the arena floor, figures beginning to rise from it.
Lucina froze, Falchion instinctively lifting a fraction. "What… are these creatures?"
The first line of Soldier Heartless clanked together in formation, helmets glinting, yellow eyes burning. A Powerwild followed, muscles coiled like springs.
"Those," Phil said, already backing toward the wall with the casual confidence of someone who had done this far too many times, "from what I've been hearin' lately, are called Heartless."
Lucina's expression said enough—wide eyes, tense posture, breath catching at the uncanny way their shadows seemed to move ahead of their bodies.
"That's right," Phil went on. "Heroes pass through here all the time. Some of 'em talk. Some of 'em limp. Either way, the name sticks." He jerked his chin toward the three foes. "Far as I can tell, they hate light, love smashin' things, and look ugly doin' it. But lucky for you…" He swept an arm grandly at the swarm. "They also make excellent practice dummies."
Lucina shot him a look, then glanced back at the gathering monsters.
"…And you can just summon them? With a finger snap?" she asked, unease slipping into her voice.
Phil shrugged. "Eh, Coliseum's got its quirks. Don't think too hard about it, kid—you'll get a headache."
Lucina didn't look reassured, even as her eyes stayed fixed on her foes.
Phil retreated a few steps and cupped his hands around his mouth. "All right, kid! Rule zero—almost forgot! No screaming. You want my help?" He jabbed a finger at the Heartless. "Clear the arena!"
Lucina's heart hammered. The creatures shifted restlessly, ready to pounce. These weren't like anything from Ylisse. Their movements were wrong—too fluid, too shadowed, like smoke pretending to hold form.
A slow breath steadied her. The young woman's stance dropped into the familiar shape her father had drilled into her a thousand times.
"I… I will not retreat," she said loudly with resolve. "My father entrusted me with this duty. I intend to honour it."
The nearest Soldier lurched forward with a clanking stride, leaping into a wild spinning slash.
"MOVE, KID!" Phil shouted.
[Fire Emblem Theme – Super Smash Bros Melee plays]
Lucina reacted on instinct. She stepped aside, Falchion snapping up in a clean parry. The impact rang up her arms. She grit her teeth, pivoted, and answered with a diagonal cut across its chest—Falchion's light tracing the blow as the Soldier erupted into darkness.
Lucina blinked in surprised. "It… vanished," she uttered.
"That means you did good, kid!" Phil called, his tone firm. "But don't gawk! You got company!"
Two more Soldiers charged, flanking her. Behind them, the Powerwild bounded forward.
Lucina exhaled, grounding her feet. "Right."
She surged towards the left Soldier first, Falchion cutting in a quick one-two—light, efficient, drilled into her bones. The gem in the hilt glowed softly, responding to her focus. The Heartless staggered back.
The right Soldier rushed in to punish her opening.
Lucina twisted, instincts snapping into place. Falchion rose into a guarding stance, a thin arc of light shimmering before her. The incoming strike slammed into it with a metallic crack.
Her arm trembled under the impact.
"Stronger than they look… stay focused."
She shoved forward, breaking the lock, and spun into a horizontal sweep that cleaved through both Soldiers at once. They burst apart into drifting motes of shadow.
Phil low whistled. "Not bad! Form's a little stiff, though. Loosen up!"
Lucina barely had time to register it.
The Powerwild was already on her.
It vaulted over the fading Soldiers, claws descending in a savage arc. Lucina jerked Falchion up just in time— the impact slammed her to one knee.
The Heartless' yellow eyes hovered inches from her face.
"Ghh—!"
Lucina twisted, letting its weight slide past her, then rolled, cloak flaring behind. The Powerwild landed where she'd been, claws gouging the floor of the arena. She came out of the roll in a low crouch, breathing hard.
"Openings… look for openings…"
The Powerwild turned, shoulders bunching for another leap. Lucina's grip tightened. Falchion's gem flared brighter, sensing the surge of determination.
She ran forward. Her boots pounded across sandy stone as she closed the distance. At the last second, she stepped off, pushing herself into a short, clean hop. Falchion arced down in a luminous diagonal slash sending a crescent of blue-white light ahead of her.
The arc carved straight through the Powerwild as she passed, cutting its attack off mid-gather. It shrieked and exploded into shadow.
Lucina landed, sliding a half-step in the dust, shoulders heaving, her eyes already flicking to the rest of the arena.
More Heartless were spilling in. Not enough to overwhelm, but enough to test her.
Phil cupped his hands. "All right, Princess! You're holdin' your own, but heroes don't fight like statues. Keep moving your feet!"
"Understood!" Lucina called, preparing for the next assault.
The next wave rushed her, but she stepped into them.
She weaved between strikes rather than meeting them head-on, letting their momentum carry them past. Falchion traced clean, efficient lines through gaps in defence. She ducked under a wild swing, came up with an upward slice that launched a Soldier into the air, then followed with an aerial cross that shattered it mid-flight.
A Powerwild tried to blindside her from behind. Lucina pivoted, bringing Falchion up across her body. Light flared, the Heartless' claws skidding off the barrier. It reeled back, stunned just long enough for her to drive forward in a Brave Thrust, the point of Falchion piercing through its chest.
Shadow burst and another Heartless was defeated.
Lucina's movements weren't perfect. A few times, her footing slipped. Once, a Soldier's swing grazed her arm, biting through fabric and stinging skin. She hissed, but stayed focused, breath coming in steady, deliberate draws as she slayed her attacker with a swift combo.
"Chrom… Father… watch me. I will be worthy of this blade."
The last two Powerwilds rushed her together, one high, one low. For a moment, her mind raced—too fast, too close—
Then something in her heart steadied.
Falchion's gem flared, bright enough to cast a halo on the ground.
Lucina stepped in, not away.
She leapt, twisting between them, Falchion raised overhead. Light gathered around the blade, swirling in a small spiral.
"Aether!" she cried without thinking.
The young-form technique burst free—one shining downward cut that cleaved through the high Powerwild, followed by a sharp turning slash as she descended that tore through the second. It wasn't the full legendary move, but it was enough.
Both Heartless exploded into darkness at once before they vanished.
Lucina hit the ground in a low landing, one knee digging into the stone, Falchion pointed down. She stayed there for a moment, panting, sweat dripping at her brow.
Silence rolled over the arena. No more Heartless appeared.
Phil let it hang for a moment, then clapped—short, sharp, and surprisingly loud.
"Not bad, kid," he said, strolling forward towards her. "Not bad at all. Little rough around the edges, but that's why ya come to me. I saw good instincts out there. Clear eyes. No running, no screaming, no 'oh no, the monsters are scary!'" He puffed. "I like that."
Lucina slowly rose, bringing Falchion back to a ready, respectful hold. "They were… unlike anything I have fought before," she admitted. "But their intent was clear. They would destroy this place if I allowed it."
"Yeah, well, they're gonna try either way," Phil said firmly. "Your job is makin' sure they fail, got it?"
She nodded resolutely. "Then I will keep fighting."
The satyr studied her for a long moment. The bluster faded just a hair; enough for something almost gentle to peek through.
"You said you came here to prove yourself, right?" he asked.
"Yes," she replied quietly. "I wish to grow stronger. To protect Ylisse. To… understand the light within my heart."
"Kid, that's the most 'hero' thing I've heard all week," Phil grumbled. "Fine. You passed the warm-up."
Lucina's eyes widened. "Does that mean—?"
"It means," he cut in, jabbing a finger up at her, "you just earned yourself a shot. Don't make me regret it."
A small, bright smile tugged at her lips before she could stop it. She bowed her head deeply.
"Thank you, Master Philoctetes. I will not disappoint you," she said, gratitude steady and sincere.
"Yeah, yeah, save the speeches. And no need for 'master.' Just Phil. Or coach," he replied, waving her off—though the lack of bite in his tone made it oddly gentle.
"Right. My apologies, Ph—Phil."
Phil huffed, adjusting his stance and giving her a long, assessing look. "Heh. You cleaned up those Heartless pretty good…" He narrowed his eyes, a wicked grin spreading — the unmistakable look of a trainer about to dump someone straight into the deep end. "Now let's see if you can survive something really terrifying."
Lucina straightened, eyes narrowing slightly as she studied the satyr's grin.
"…Terrifying?" she asked.
Phil's grin stretched into something wicked. "A hundred laps around the Coliseum. With weights. And maybe some boulders."
"…A hundred?" Lucina echoed, blinking once as the number sank in, her composure wavering for just a moment before she caught herself.
"Yep…"
"With weights?"
"That's what I said."
"And—"
"Let me finish it for ya, princess. Boulders." He planted his hands on his hips. "Yeah, you heard it right the first time."
"Oh…" Lucina breathed, one hand settling on her hip as dread crept in—though a spark of competitive pride flickered behind her eyes.
Phil caught it, snorting approvingly. "There it is. That little fire. You're young, you're stubborn, and you wanna prove somethin.' Good. Heroes don't get built sittin' pretty—they get tossed straight into the deep end."
Lucina lifted her chin just a fraction. "If that is what it takes… then I will rise to it."
"That's the spirit," Phil said, folding his arms. "'Cause you're not just trainin' for fun. The Games are comin,' and I need fresh names for the bracket. Right now I got more empty slots than I got patience."
Lucina's brows rose slightly. "The… Games?"
"Big tournament," Phil replied. "You do good in there, you prove you deserve to stay in my program. You flop?" He shrugged. "Back to basics. Lots more laps."
"Then I will earn my place here," Lucina said evenly. "Not through words, but through effort. And I will not waste the opportunity you've given me."
Phil smirked, clearly pleased. "Now that's what I like to hear. Keep talkin' like that, kid, and you just might make a hero outta yourself."
Lucina's lips curved into a small, steady smile.
"I will not fail," she said simply.
"Alright! Enough inspiration," Phil barked, snapping back into trainer mode. He unfolded his arms and swept a hand around the arena. "Start joggin.' Hundred laps, just like I said."
"…Now?"
"Yep," Phil replied flatly. "Get movin,' kid."
Lucina exhaled through her nose, squared her shoulders, and slipped Falchion back into its sheath with a clean, practiced motion—then, without another word, broke into her first lap.
Phil watched her go, nodding with smug satisfaction.
"Good," he muttered, tracking her form. "She's got guts… let's see if she's got lungs."
Back on the Gummi Ship
[Throw It All Away (Retrospective Version) – Sonic x Shadow Generations plays]
"...and once I realised Black Doom intended to harvest the population as livestock, the alliance was terminated."
Shadow's voice was even, almost clinical, as if he were reciting a tactical report rather than describing an alien invasion. He stood with his back to the room, staring out the narrow viewport at the swirling stardust of the Ocean Between.
Jiminy was perched on the edge of a thick, closed book on the table, legs dangling. His own small journal was open in his lap, and his pen had been scribbling furiously, but he stopped now, looking up at the brooding hedgehog.
"I'm sorry, back up just a smidge," the cricket requested, flipping back a page. "You said this 'Black Doom' was… a relative?"
"Black Doom was my biological donor," Shadow corrected, not turning around. "He provided the blood sample Professor Gerald used to create me."
Jiminy just stared at the hedgehog's back. The cricket had chronicled a lot on this adventure so far, but this was a different sort of heavy.
"Golly," Jiminy breathed. "And… you had to fight him? Your own creator?"
"I did what was required," Shadow affirmed, the inhibitors on his wrists glinting in the light. "I utilised the Chaos Emeralds to assume my Super form. I destroyed his physical body, and then I used Chaos Control to warp the Black Comet into the path of the Eclipse Cannon."
Jiminy's pen hovered over the paper, trembling slightly. "You… you moved an entire comet? Into a laser? In space?"
"Yes."
Jiminy stared at him for a moment longer than necessary, then shook himself and resumed writing, the small nib scratching furiously against the paper.
The quarters around them hummed with the vibration of the Gummi Ship's engines.
By most standards, it was barely a room at all—just a narrow bunk bolted into the wall and metal panels worn smooth by age. It was cramped, utilitarian, and quiet. It suited Shadow just fine.
"Let's see now…" Jiminy muttered to himself, tongue poking out the corner of his mouth as he tried to condense the narrative. "Alien invasion… biological manipulation… total planetary defence… rejection of dark legacy…"
Shadow turned slightly and watched him from the corner of his eye, expression unreadable.
"You're taking your time with this…" he remarked bluntly.
Jiminy paused, glancing up with a sheepish smile. "Well, I don't get many entries that involve amnesia, alien warlords, and saving the world by teleporting a doomsday rock into space. That's not exactly everyday hero work, y'know."
"…I'm not a hero," Shadow said at once, the words automatic. He turned fully. "I endangered people and Mobius to find the truth. I am not like Sonic, or the King."
Jiminy's smile didn't falter. He capped his pen and hopped down from the book, looking up at the Ultimate Lifeform from the table.
"Maybe not by their definition," Jiminy replied gently, tapping the cover of his journal with his pen before pointing it towards Shadow. "But you faced the darkest parts of your own history, Shadow. You had every reason to turn against your world, but you chose to save it instead. In my book… that is the very definition of heroic."
"Call it whatever you want," Shadow replied, his voice low. "I made a promise to Maria. I kept it. That's all."
Jiminy softened at that. He uncapped his pen and turned back to his page to add a final, careful footnote. He was just dotting an 'i' when a sound broke the hum of the engines.
A low, guttural growl rose from Shadow's throat, vibrating through the small room.
"Shadow?" Jiminy asked, pausing mid-sentence. He lowered his pen slowly, catching the distress before his eyes confirmed it. The cricket looked up to see Shadow's shoulders bunching tight. "What's wrong?"
Shadow gave a low, sharp grunt, pressing the heel of his gloved palm against his temple. "Hn."
He closed his eyes, arms dropping rigidly to his sides. The air in the small cabin seemed to plummet in temperature, and the ambient hum of the Gummi Ship was drowned out by the loud ringing in his ears.
Jiminy leaned forward, intrigued. He had seen a great deal in his travels, but watching a living, walking weapon try to wrestle with something only he could hear was entirely different.
Shadow focused on the alien blood running through his veins, the connection that once linked him to the Black Arms. That link was supposed to be severed, but something was moving through the broken static.
"Who are you…?" he whispered, the words low and harsh. "Where are you…?"
There it was again. That sensation that something, someone, was calling to him.
It wasn't the commanding drone of Black Doom; he was long gone. This was a cry for help. It had been a faint tug earlier in Traverse Town, a whisper even. But after Merlin's, now out here in the lanes between worlds, it hit him like a physical blow.
"Tell me!" he demanded, his voice rising sharply as his eyes snapped open, crimson irises flashing with dangerous light.
"Golly!" Jiminy yelped, giving a startled jump that sent his pen and journal clattering to the desk. The cricket clutched his chest with one hand, whilst the other reached up just in time to save his top hat from toppling over.
Shadow didn't even register the movement. He forced his mind's eye open, tearing through the mental interference. The static cleared for a fraction of a second.
His eyes went impossibly wide, the pupils contracting to pinpricks. A sharp, ragged gasp tore from his throat. He took a stumbling step back, his usually stoic face twisting into a look of pure, frozen shock—as if he had just seen a ghost standing in the centre of the room.
The hedgehog saw a flash of colour—a vivid, aquatic blue, stark against an endless, crushing black. It was hair. Strands of blue hair floating as if underwater. Beneath it, a figure. A woman? He couldn't see her face; her front was a blur of white light and static, as if reality itself had been ripped away from her.
But the feeling… it wasn't malice. It was loss. It was someone drowning, reaching up towards a surface that wasn't there.
"Help… me."
The voice wasn't heard; it was felt. It clawed at the Chaos energy in Shadow's blood.
"Show yourself," Shadow hissed, his body trembling with the effort to hold the connection. His aura flared. "Don't hide from me! Who are you?"
The vision quivered like fractured glass—the blue hair, the reaching hand, the suffocating dark—and then it shattered.
Shadow staggered, his air shoes skidding on the floor as he braced himself against the wall. The room snapped back into focus, along with the dull, throbbing ache that always followed when he pushed his senses too hard.
"Shadow!" Jiminy exclaimed, hopping up and down in alarm. He then froze, looking up at the hedgehog with deep worry. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine," Shadow snapped, a touch too quickly.
He straightened, forcing his breathing back into a rhythmic, tactical pattern.
In. Out. In. Out.
Jiminy adjusted his hat, which had gone askew when he jumped. He looked at the hedgehog with wide, worry-filled eyes, sensing the walls coming back up.
"Shadow…" Jiminy ventured, his voice soft but insisting on an answer. "What just happened?"
"It was… that call," Shadow muttered, staring at his own gloved hand as if expecting it to be shaking. It wasn't. "It was louder this time. Stronger than before." He lowered his hand, his expression darkening as he recalled the sensation of drowning. "Someone… is in danger."
"Danger?" Jiminy echoed, his expression grim.
Shadow turned to explain, but the sharp pneumatic hiss of the cabin door cut through the tension.
"So this is where you're hidin'," Sonic said, leaning casually against the frame of the open door. "I thought you'd claimed the cargo bay as your eternal sulk zone."
Shadow didn't answer. He didn't even turn to look at him.
Sonic's grin faded a fraction when he took in the room properly. It wasn't just quiet; it was heavy. Shadow stood rigidly, his chest rising and falling in a controlled rhythm, his fists unclenched but trembling slightly.
"Shadow… you okay?" Sonic asked, his voice losing its tease.
Shadow shot him a sideways look, his crimson eyes sharp but weary.
"I'm fine," he answered bluntly.
Sonic snorted quietly, stepping fully inside. "Yeah… that's a lie. Even for you."
"Sonic… Shadow felt that calling again," Jiminy said softly, shifting uneasily on the desk. "It was stronger this time too."
That got Sonic's full attention. He wandered over to the desk, hopping up to sit on the edge, arms folded loosely. "Same mystery call, huh?"
Shadow gave a stiff nod. He looked at his gloved hands, turning them over as if inspecting the inhibitors on his wrists.
"I couldn't make them out properly," Shadow murmured. "But that calling… it isn't an echo. It isn't a memory playing tricks." He lowered his hands. "It's a distress beacon."
"A beacon?" Sonic asked, brow raising.
"As you know, my biology… is unique," Shadow said, the admission coming reluctantly. "I believe I'm acting as a receiver for someone trapped. Picking up a frequency only I can hear." He looked up, eyes narrowing. "But the will to answer it… that belongs to Maria."
"Maria…" Sonic murmured, folding his arms. "How?"
"If I didn't have her promise, I would just tune it out," Shadow explained, his voice low. "But I can feel their desperation."
The room fell quiet, filled only by the low, rhythmic thrum of the Gummi Ship's engines.
Sonic's gaze dropped to the floor, his foot tapping unconsciously. He looked over to Jiminy, then back to Shadow.
"You know… I wish Amy could do that," Sonic said suddenly.
Shadow turned his head. "Do what?"
"Y'know," Sonic went on, trying—and failing—to keep his tone light. "Just pop into my head for a second. Smack me with that hammer of hers, tell me she's fine. 'Quit worryin,' Sonic! I'm out here smashin' Heartless, duh!'"
He chuckled, but it didn't land. The sound was hollow as Sonic rubbed the back of his neck, his quills drooping slightly.
Shadow watched him in silence. The rivalry between them usually dictated a scoff or a challenge, but the dark hedgehog remained still.
"She's tougher than she looks," Shadow said at last.
Sonic glanced to him, surprised. "You really think so, huh?"
"I know so."
Shadow walked towards the centre of the room. He looked at Jiminy, who was poised to write, then back at Sonic.
"On the ARK…" Shadow began, his voice dropping into that storytelling cadence Jiminy recognised. "When the Colony was falling… I had every intention of letting it crash into Mobius. I wanted humanity to pay for what they did to Maria. I was lost in my own revenge."
"Yeah, I know…" Sonic sighed. "I was there."
"Wait…" Jiminy blinked, looking up from his journal. "You originally wanted to destroy Mobius?"
"Yes," Shadow admitted without flinching. "But then Amy appeared."
The black hedgehog closed his eyes, the memory surfacing clearly against the darkness of his eyelids.
"She told me that while people are selfish, they are basically good. That they deserve a chance to be happy." He exhaled slowly, opening his eyes. "She begged me to help."
Sonic was staring at him now, silence absolute. Jiminy looked on in awe at what he was being told.
"In that moment," Shadow continued, "her voice overlapped with Maria's. She broke the hold my past had on me. She reminded me of the real promise I made. To give people a chance." He looked Sonic dead in the eye. "I kept my promise to Maria… because I made a new one to Amy."
Sonic stared for a moment longer, then let out a long, shaky breath. His shoulders dropped three inches.
"Heh," Sonic murmured, a genuine, albeit small, smile touching his lips. He rubbed the bottom of his nose with a gloved finger. "Guess I'm not the only one she knocked some sense into, huh?"
Shadow huffed, crossing his arms. "Don't get used to me agreeing with you."
"Wouldn't dream of it," Sonic said, the spark returning to his green eyes. He hopped off the desk and paced a small circle. "We'll find her. Alice too. No way the Heartless can keep them down for long."
"Hmm." Shadow's gaze shifted back towards the wall, his expression turning thoughtful.
Sonic clapped his gloved hands together once, the sound sharp in the cramped room. "Alright. Subject change before we start huggin' or somethin'."
"I don't do hugs," Shadow deadpanned. "And I would never hug you."
"Yeah, I know," Sonic smirked. "So… Olympus Coliseum."
Jiminy perked up immediately. "Ah, yes! Our next stop, of course."
Sonic nodded, planting his hands on his hips. "You've been there before, right Shadow?"
Shadow gave him a flat look. "You know this already."
"Hey, just verifyin' the intel," Sonic teased.
"I was there… briefly," Shadow conceded with a sigh.
"Briefly is better than nothing. So, what's the scoop?"
Shadow rubbed his temple, the weight of the memory clearly exhausting him. "The trainer's name is Philoctetes."
"Philo—what now?" Sonic blinked in confusion.
"Philoctetes," Jiminy supplied helpfully.
"Thank you," Shadow muttered to the cricket, before shifting his gaze back to the blue hedgehog. "He is a satyr."
"A satyr, huh?" Sonic mused, tilting his head. "That's the goat-man thing, right?"
Shadow gave him a withering look. "Half-man. Half-goat. All attitude."
Sonic grinned. "Heh. Sounds like a riot."
"He is loud," Shadow continued, ignoring Sonic's amusement. "Impatient. And completely obsessed with 'hero credentials.'" He paused, his expression deadpan. "He will shout at you. Constantly."
Sonic's grin faltered just a fraction. "Ah. Less of a riot."
"But," Shadow paused, his expression darkening slightly. "When I was there… I didn't just train."
"Oh?" Sonic leaned in, tilting his head. "What else did you do? Go sightseeing?"
Shadow ignored the jab. He didn't even roll his eyes; he just stared at his gloved hand, flexing the fingers as he recalled the sensation of raw power he had felt near the Coliseum gates.
"I sensed something," he said slowly.
"That calling?" Sonic asked, serious now. "Heartless?"
"No. A presence. Familiar. Stubborn." Shadow lowered his hand, his eyes narrowing as he tried to place the energy signature. "I thought perhaps it was Kn—"
Hiss.
The door slid open again before he could finish.
"Hey!" Sora poked his head in, grinning. "There you guys are. I've been looking everywhere."
Shadow's sentence died mid-thought. He clamped his mouth shut, the vibration of his words fading into the hum of the room.
"Sup, Sora?" Sonic asked, turning on his heel. His demeanour shifted instantly. "Donald finally calmed down?"
"Not exactly," Sora chuckled, stepping fully into the small quarters. "But the navigation thingy says we're not far from Olympus now."
Jiminy brightened, adjusting his top hat. "Gosh, already? That was quicker than I expected."
Sora's gaze flicked between Sonic and Shadow, his smile faltering slightly. He picked up on the lingering seriousness in the air.
"Am I… interrupting something?" he asked.
Before either could respond, the Gummi Ship gave a shudder. The pitch of the engines shifted from a hum to a throaty groan as thrusters engaged for deceleration.
"Guess that means we're arriving," Sonic said, glancing at the ceiling as the vibration rattled the room.
"Hmm," Shadow grunted, though his eyes remained fixed on the floor.
"Right! We'd better get back to the cockpit," Sora suggested, gesturing with his thumb over his shoulder. "Donald'll yell if we're late for landing. He says the autopilot is 'finicky.'"
"Ha! Wouldn't miss that show," Sonic said with a small smile. "We'll be there in a sec, buddy."
"Sure," Sora replied with a nod, turning to leave.
"Wait," Shadow said, his voice low but absolute.
The word carried enough weight to stop Sora in his tracks. The boy turned back, blinking at the dark hedgehog.
"Yeah, Shadow?"
Shadow hesitated for a fraction of a second, searching for the right words.
"Earlier," the hedgehog began, his voice low. "At Merlin's house. You saw that girl… Kairi. But we didn't."
Sora rubbed the back of his neck, looking a little sheepish. "Yeah. I know you guys think I was just seeing things. Maybe the concussion from that Heartless earlier…"
"Did you feel anything?" Shadow interrupted, his gaze piercing. "Before you saw her."
Shadow lifted a gloved hand, tapping his temple once. Then, slowly, he lowered it, pressing his palm flat against his chest.
"Did you feel… a pull?" Shadow asked intently. "Here? Or here?"
Sora paused, his expression shifting from embarrassment to thoughtful introspection. He looked down at his gloved hands, clenching and unclenching them.
"I… I guess so," Sora said softly. "I was happy to see her, obviously. But when she disappeared, and you guys said she wasn't there… it hurt. Like a heavy weight right here." He then placed a hand over his heart, his blue eyes earnest. "But even now, I know she's somewhere. And I will find her."
Shadow studied the boy. "Your connection. It is strong?"
"The strongest!" Sora grinned, the sadness vanishing instantly. "It's the same with Riku too. My friends are my power, y'know?"
Sonic let out a short laugh, shaking his head. "You should put that on a motivational poster. Right next to the kitten hanging from a branch saying, 'Hang in there!'"
Sora blinked, tilting his head. "A… kitten?"
Sonic's smile froze. He sighed, waving a hand dismissively. "Never mind, buddy. Forget I said anything."
"…Okay," Sora replied, clearly confused but happy to move on.
Shadow, however, had gone rigid. His eyes narrowed by a fraction.
"Riku…"
The name triggered a sharp, jagged memory from days ago—the silver-haired boy in the castle, reaching for the red Chaos Emerald.
"The boy who tried to take the emerald," Shadow thought, the pieces clicking together in his tactical mind. "Was that Riku?"
Sonic, watching closely, noticed the subtle shift in Shadow's posture.
"Shadow?" the blue hedgehog asked, his voice dropping. "You got something on your mind?"
"It's nothing," Shadow said quickly, dismissing the thought.
Now wasn't the time to tell Sora he may have seen his best friend. Not without proof.
"Right…" Sonic drawled, clearly not buying it but deciding to let it slide for now.
Sora looked between them, sensing the tension but missing the context. "So, how come you're asking about Kairi, Shadow? You aren't exactly the type to believe in… y'know, heart stuff."
"Or other people's feelings in general," Sonic interjected with a smirk.
Shadow's frown deepened, shooting a glare at the blue hedgehog, but he quickly focused back on Sora.
"I am experiencing… a similar phenomenon," Shadow admitted, crossing his arms over his chest to shield himself slightly. "I do not have a wide circle of friends like you, but I am sensing someone. Someone needing help."
Sora's eyes widened. "Really? Because of that calling thing you mentioned earlier?"
"Yes," Shadow confirmed. "It's not clear like your vision. I cannot see a face yet. But it is loud."
Sora stepped forward, his expression shifting into that distinct, earnest seriousness he wore when making promises.
"Then you gotta trust it, Shadow," Sora said firmly. He placed a hand over his own heart. "Even if you can't see them yet… if you feel them, then they're real. And if they're calling out to you, it means they haven't given up. They need you."
Shadow looked at the boy—naïve, young, wielding a giant key—and found the logic surprisingly sound.
"Perhaps," Shadow allowed.
The ship shuddered again, harder this time, the floor rattling.
"We really better go," Sora said, jumping slightly as the ship dipped. "Come on!"
"I will remain here," Shadow said firmly. "It's cramped enough in that cockpit as it is."
"Fair point," Sonic said with a grin. He looked to Sora and gestured to the door. "Alright, lead the way, Sora."
Sora turned and the doors reopened. The teenager darted out into the corridor, eager to see the new world. Sonic followed but paused in the open doorway. He looked back, one hand resting on the metal frame.
"Hey, Shadow."
"What?"
Sonic's expression was devoid of its usual mockery. "Don't stress about it. We'll find that someone needing your help. We've got a knack for this stuff."
Shadow stared at him, then gave a single, curt nod.
Sonic flashed a thumbs-up, turned, and vanished down the hall, the door sliding shut with a final hiss.
Silence reclaimed the room.
Shadow let out a long breath through his nose, the tension in his shoulders finally dropping. Jiminy watched him from the desk, his pen hovering over the page, sensing the moment required silence.
Shadow closed his eyes. The static in his mind cleared for just a moment, and the image flashed again—blue hair floating in an endless void, a hand reaching up from the deep.
"Maria told me to give people a chance," he thought, the vow cementing itself in his mind like iron. "I don't know who you are. But I will find you. That's a promise."
[Night in the Dark Dream – Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep Final Mix plays]
Time meant nothing in this hollow, dark expanse. Had it been weeks? Months? Years? The darkness didn't just swallow light; it swallowed the very concept of when.
A young woman with blue hair stumbled, her silver boots scuffing heavily against the slate-grey earth. She wasn't just walking; she was dragging herself, her body trembling not from the cold, but from the adrenaline of a siege that never ended.
Her weapon was dismissed. Not because she was safe, but because her grip had finally failed after the thousandth swing.
She stopped near a jagged outcrop, gasping for air that tasted like stale ozone. The rocks here pulsed with faint veins of blue energy, but they were nothing compared to her.
She looked down at her feet. The ground was blank.
Her shadow had been ripped away.
A shiver of violation crawled up her spine. Without her shadow to anchor her light, she was a beacon. She could feel them out there in the silence—thousands of yellow eyes drawn to her unnatural incandescence. The Heartless didn't just hate her; they craved her. She was a drop of blood in a shark tank, and the water was churning.
A cold prickle danced across her neck.
Behind her, deep in the gloom, the shadows seemed to coalesce, watching her with mocking green eyes. A reminder of the thief who had left her this way—exposed, raw, and hunted.
"Move," she commanded her trembling legs, forcing herself away from the rock. "If you stop… they'll swarm."
Suddenly, a faint pulse throbbed in her chest.
Slowly, fighting the exhaustion that clung to her like chains, she raised a trembling arm. Her fingers curled inward, pressing palm-flat against her chest, trying to smother the light and catch the sound.
"Someone..." she rasped, her voice cracked from disuse.
She stared into the oppressive dark, her exhausted blue eyes shimmering with a fragile, desperate hope.
"Someone is coming."
Notes:
A bit of a breather chapter before Olympus really kicks off—so I had some fun with this one.
There are a few light references and easter eggs sprinkled throughout this chapter, most obviously Goofy absolutely trying to break into "The Open Road" (because of course he would). This one's a shout-out to KeybladeMom, after a joke we shared about it a few months back. :)
There are also some smaller nods tucked into the dialogue and music cues for Sonic fans — "Open Your Heart," anyone?
I also wanted to take a moment to properly expand Lucina's presence in this continuity. She appeared in the original version of the story, but here I wanted to give her a clearer why. In this Re:Master, Lucina is slightly younger than her Fire Emblem incarnation, much in the same way Kingdom Hearts de-ages characters like Zack. She isn't from a future timeline, and she isn't here by coincidence—she's here because she's actively seeking growth and training. Olympus felt like the right place to show that, rather than just having her pop up later with a "oh, she's in the tournament" moment.
On Shadow's side of things, his discussion of Black Doom and the strange calling he's experiencing is very intentional. This ties into the final scene of the chapter, which I'm deliberately not commenting on yet. No spoilers here, just know that this thread is important, and it's one I'm letting breathe until the right moment.
I might get the next chapter out before Christmas, but I can't promise anything. If not, we'll be heading properly into the Olympus Coliseum arc in January.
And if this does end up being the last update before then—happy holidays, and thank you all for reading.
Disclaimer: Fire Emblem and Lucina are owned by Nintendo, developed by Intelligent Systems.
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