Chapter Text
The high seas have been calm as of late. Though the relaxing nature of the ocean did nothing to ease Captain Shadow’s spiraling thoughts. The crew was busy at work, making sure everything was in top shape for their continuous journey ahead. A journey with no heading and no end in sight.
It had been six months…
Six months since Sonic sacrificed himself so that his family and his friends got out of Mobotropolis alive. Six months of trying to find Chaos Emeralds that don’t want to be found. Six months of reaching out to the Guardian for aid but getting no response.
They never stopped searching and had nothing to show for it.
Mobotropolis locked down its borders after their infiltration and recovery of the Flame of Solaris. Not even with the power of the mist stone could hide them enough to go undetected. And no word or sign of Sonic…
The unknown had been driving him mad. What horrors had Sonic been enduring? Did they discover his immortality? He’d be lying if he said he had a good night's sleep or ate properly… However, Sonic’s brother has taken it upon himself to make sure Shadow stays healthy. Having Tails here kept him grounded when he…
“Shadow?” Speaking of the fox,
He turns towards Tails, seeing him look at the Vampire Captain with hesitation. Usually when he’s checking in on him, Tails has a sterner expression. It mirrored one Sonic had given him in the past. Sometimes making him miss his partner more. “What is it?” Shadow asked,
“Well, I was wondering if you were still alright with me building a new body for Omega?” Tails asked.
After they discovered that Omega could possess the mechanics invented in Mobotropolis, Tails had commented that he could try to make one of his own designs and weaponize it. Omega's previous golem was fractured when Sonic was possessed by the dark half of the flame and is no longer usable.
He could feel the ghost hovering over Tails. It was hard to tell with the sun, but the specter form almost looked like it had his spectral hands together. Of course the weapons obsessed ghost would beg for a mechanized anchor.
Shadow lets out a small huff with a subtle smile. “Of course, we need every advantage we can conjure to save Sonic.” He said. But seeing Tails’ ears droop at his own brother's name made his heart sink.
“Have you… Tried today?” Tails asked, glancing at the compass pouch strapped to his belt.
Shadow lets out a sigh. He hadn’t made the attempt and a part of him didn’t want to feel the dread of another wasted day. Another day without a real heading.
Though, the day was almost over so there was little point to hold it off any longer. Shadow pulls out the crystal compass from its pouch before pricking his finger with the sharp needle at the top. Tails walks over to watch the compass as they keep an eye on the blood droplet.
Both of them sucked in a breath when the needle subtly started to move.
“Omega, inform the crew we will soon have new coordinates!” Shadow mists away back to his quarters. He knew it was rude to leave Tails like that, but they must make haste. Who knows how much time he wasted around today sulking.
Tearing out all of his maps and Rouge’s journal as he watches the compass continue to move. She needed to tell Knuckles, to tell everyone! The Emeralds finally had enough energy to be found!
Frantically working, his mind thinks about the last time he looked into emerald eyes. How battered and bruised he looked. Surprising him with a kiss to distract him… And his smile, that damned, self-sacrificing, beautiful smile.
Shadow’s thoughts are interrupted as Grey and Leven burst into his quarters.
“Cap, is it true?” Grey asked.
He could see the desperate looks on their faces. His crew, Sonic's friends, desperately wanted to be involved. To do anything that might help.
Giving a quick nod brought a sparkle to their eyes he'd thought was lost. “Help me set up the map.” Shadow said.
Leven rushed over first, gently taking the old map in an attempt not to shred it with his sharp claws. Grey helps him unroll the map and hold it in place on Shadows desk while their Captain laid trinkets to weigh it down.
He places down the compass. Letting his crewmates organize everything as his mind wanders again while he works.
The echo of Sonic's form appears next to him. As if he was guiding them on where to go. All while a ghostly specter watches, waiting for the word.
They won’t stop until Sonic is safe with those he loves. No matter what it takes!
“Omega, we have our heading.”
The Lights Embrace, a diplomatic ship from Soleanna, docks in Spagonia’s harbor. Amy looks around awestruck at the beautiful Oceanside city.
Older buildings, tightly knit, almost stacked on top of each other. Most being apartments, shops, and cathedrals. All covered with orange tiled roofs. The streets and alleys of the city are cobblestone laid. A large clock tower stood out to her as it chimed the hour.
Dare she think it looked magical.
“Have you ever been to Spagonia before?” Blaze asked, walking up to her while they waited for permission to leave the ship.
“No, that voyage with Sonic was my first time outside of Soleanna waters. Now I'm continents away on a diplomatic mission.” Amy chuckles,
“I will forever be grateful for your help.” Blaze said.
“I still think Espio and Vector would have been enough.” Amy said. But Blaze shakes her head.
“Ever since the flame was returned, my sight has been less accurate to an extent. I still see the future possibilities. But there's almost fog at times. Like it's blurring my sight.”
Amy hesitates to ask… especially knowing her vision isn't at its best. But she's taken out of her thoughts when Blaze places a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “Right now all I can tell you is that he's not going anywhere.”
“That's the problem…” Amy said with a sigh. “Staying still for so long must be killing him.”
“Shadow and the others are searching for the Emeralds. They will find a way to get to him. Sadly, those windows of opportunity will all be slim.” Blaze said.
“You're right. Besides, we have our own work to do.” Amy said. Blaze turns around just as Vector and Espio walk up.
“Looks like the royal family has sent us an escort to the Castle.” Vector said.
“Regardless of what we are asked, We keep the Pirates out of it.” Amy said. They all nod in agreement.
Explaining Shadow and the Crew of the Final Hazard’s involvement would raise further questions, particularly about Sonic. No one, especially other countries, can know what Sonic really is.
They all leave the ship and are greeted by Spagonia soldiers. “Good afternoon,” an elderly deer said. “May we see your papers?”
Espio walks up and hands over the formal paperwork that granted them an audience to speak with the royal family.
It has taken several months just for the approval. They all knew creating relationships with other kingdoms would be an uphill battle. Especially since those kingdoms openly avoided Soleanna after their harsh disconnect with magic.
They all could already feel the downward looks the soldiers were giving them. Amy was quick to notice that Blaze seemed unphased by their stares. Almost giving off enough confidence that made some of the soldiers waver. She wished to give off that kind of presence.
“Everything seems to be in order.” The Deer said before handing Espio back the papers. “This way please.” He gestures towards a carriage.
Vector gives both Blaze and Amy a hand before he and Espio climb inside.
None break the silence looming over them for their entire ride.
“Mighty, Rey, my quarters, now.” Knuckles called out as the two stopped what they were doing and followed their captain.
He quickly noticed some of the other hands stopped to watch or potentially listen into the conversation. Knuckles gives them a stern look, “Back to work.” He snarled and that was enough to get the crew to immediately listen.
Mighty had informed him that his crew had dubbed him ‘Knuckles the Dread,’ apparently both his enemies and allies thought he was terrifying.
Luckily that worked in his favor, it kept the crew in line and his enemies at a distance. Though, being close to the Pirate Queen helped. They may write to each other every day, but that didn't stop him from missing her.
He could see Sonic's teasing grin thinking about how much he's changed.
Closing the doors to his quarters behind him. He looks at Mighty and Ray. “Everything alright?” Mighty asked,
Knuckles pulls out the Master Emerald from his pocket. It pulsed with a warm light that had his two crew members enthralled with its shine. “I-I don't t-think I've seen it do t-that before.” Ray said.
“Neither have I. And the news I just received confirmed my suspicion.” Knuckles said, moving to his desk and pulling out maps. “The Chaos Emeralds can finally be located.”
“Shall I inform the crew?” Mighty asked,
“Yes, Tell them that we finally have a lead on one of the Queen's treasures.” Knuckles said.
It was the easiest way to explain their search to the other pirates. Those chosen aboard the Angels Voyage were picked out for having loyalty to the Queen of the Pirates. Knowing this was a mission from her gave it special weight.
No pirate would dare steal the Queen's treasure.
Mighty leaves the room to give the order while Ray stays in the room to help. “Will w-we find your f-friend if we f-find the emerald?” Ray asked,
“There’s a chance, albeit slim. We need to be prepared for anything.” Knuckles said. “Regardless, we can’t let the Emeralds fall into the wrong hands.”
“The Emeralds are m-magical, correct?” Ray asked,
“In a way, yes. But Chaos energy is the energy of the earth itself. It flows through everything.” Knuckles explained.
“And S-Sonic is connected to t-them because he’s a C-Chaos Born?”
“Correct, the last of his kind. The only other way to find the Emeralds besides with the Master Emerald is with the blood of a Chaos Born.” Knuckles said.
Only with blood and a heart of gold can the Chaos Emeralds be controlled.
“Alright, give these coordinates to Mighty.” Knuckles scribbled down their heading and handed the paper to Ray. He nods before taking it, giving his captain a salute before leaving.
Excitement welled up in Knuckles’ chest. They were finally on their way to the Emeralds and closer to saving Sonic. Continuing his internal debate on whether he will hit or hug Sonic when he sees him.
“We’ll get you back, Sonic. That I promise.”
Amy let out a heavy sigh after hearing the clock tower chime again. This had been the second time they’d heard it while they waited in a guest room within the Spagonia castle. They’ve been waiting for two hours… She could tell it was grating on Vector’s nerves as well.
“How long do you think they’re planning on making us wait?” Vector snarled.
“We are not the only people the Acorn royal family have meetings with.” Blaze said plainly.
“However, they are being very disparaging.” Espio said.
“Can you blame them? Soleanna cut itself off from kingdom’s with heavy ties to magic. Now all of a sudden we reopen communication?” Amy said,
“She has a point.” Blaze said. “And that’s why we’re here now.” She stands up as the three of them look at her confused.
There's a knock at the door before it opens and one of the guards enters. “This way.” He said with no enthusiasm in his voice.
The three get up and follow Blaze out of the room. They remained quiet, knowing this was the moment of truth. Would the royals be willing to hear them out or toss their request to the side?
They are brought in front of King Nigel and his daughter Princess Sally.
Four years ago, the previous heir, Prince Elias Acorn passed away. His sister Sally took the title of Heir shortly after.
“I present the diplomatic party from Soleanna. Lady Blaze accompanied by Dame Amy Rose, Sir Espio and Sir Vector.” The soldier announced. The four bowed after their name was called. Amy tried to hide the wince of pain from bowing; it was a movement she forgot was difficult. She looks down seeing Princess Sally surely noticed.
“You have traveled a long way from home, Lady Blaze.” Princess Sally was the first to speak.
“Yes, it is rare to see Soleanna citizens. After you banned magic from your waters it made travel to your country rather difficult.” King Nigel said plainly.
“Apologies for the prior difficulties, King Nigel.” Blaze said with a deep bow.
“No need to apologize for something you did not cause yourself. But please, enlighten me as to why after so many years have you decided to visit.” King Nigel said,
“I first wish to inform you that as of a few months ago, Queen Elise has abolished the old kings law that forbade magic.” Blaze said.
The room goes quiet, Amy, Vector and Espio glance at one another feeling the tension within the room. The guards at their posts listening in looked shocked or confused. It’s not a surprise, a kingdom changing a strict law like that was a one eighty no one would expect.
None of them were expecting to hear the King laugh.
“I heard a rumor that she had removed the ban, and now you’re here to tell me it is true? These are wild times indeed!” King Nigel said. Vector held back a snarl at the King’s disbelief and lack of respect towards their queen.
“Apologies Lady Blaze, it is difficult for us to believe with just your word. Soleanna has had a ban on magic for over twenty-five years.” Princess Sally said.
“That is why we have brought a formal letter from Queen Elise herself.” Blaze said. She looks over at Amy, and she quickly fishes the letter from her pocket. She hands it to the guard who walks up to the King, handing it to him.
“This is Soleanna’s royal seal,” King Nigel mumbled in surprise as he opened the letter and began reading it.
“We know fear and bigotry cannot disappear overnight. But our Queen is taking the slow steps to ensure that we can embrace magic and wish for the aid to do so.” Blaze said.
“So you want to reopen an alliance with Spagonia?” Princess Sally asked,
“Correct, Queen Elise believes that we could become great allies. Especially since we share common enemies.” Blaze said.
“I take it you are referring to Mobotropolis.” King Nigel said. “Yes, Emperor Robotnik has become rather brazen as of late. We have already sent word to them about their military ships invading our waters without permission. I assume it is a bit more hostile for you since you share a continent with them.”
“Unfortunately, it is much worse. Mobotropolis came to Soleanna pretending to begin talks of peace, even signing a treaty, then they stole our most sacred relic.” Blaze said.
Espio pulls out the signed peace treaty, handing it to the guard who inspects it before giving it over to Princess Sally. “Father, I recognize both Queen Elise and Lord Starline’s signatures.” She said,
“You know Lord Starline?” Amy asked, quickly covering her mouth, instantly regretting the outburst.
“Lord Starline came to us with a similar agreement. We told him we needed time to decide, and he’s scheduled back here next month.” King Nigel said.
“What was the relic?” Princess Sally asked,
“The flame of Solaris.” The two royals’ eyes go wide hearing Blaze say that.
“How are we to believe that they stole a relic that none, but the royal family have seen?” King Nigel countered.
Blaze held up her hands in front of her, a pure white flame glowing above them as the royals and the soldiers all gaped in awe at the marvel. “I am a child of Iblis, bound to the pure white flame of Solaris. Through flame I can see past and future. It is how I know we share another enemy.”
The King and Princess looked too stunned to speak, worried saying anything would give away their hidden truth.
“And who is it you claim to refer to?” Princess Sally reluctantly asked,
“Prince Elias was not the only royal Ixis Naugus murdered.”
Amy could feel the room go cold with those words. Not even the heat radiating from the flame still flickering in Blaze’s hands could stave off the chill.
“Explain.” King Nigel said sternly, A rage in his eyes that left all but Blaze, flinching.
“He is the cause of the ban on magic all those years ago.” Blaze explained.
“Queen Elise’s father…” King Nigel exhaled, eyes widening from the realization. “You have my attention Lady Blaze; however we still need more proof of Mobotropolis’ crimes.”
“After they stole the flame, one of our Elite’s took a leave of absence to go retrieve it to prevent triggering the flames of disaster. Whilst on this mission his adopted brother was abducted by Starline and General Infinite. His abduction was witnessed by these two.” Blaze gestures to Vector and Espio.
“Starline used a strange magic that can make holes in the air that can take you to other places.” Vector added.
“Teleportation magic?” Princess Sally said shocked. “That would explain how he got to Spagonia.”
“It’s from a strange stone he wields on his glove.” Espio said,
“You mentioned an Elite went after the Flame, who was it?” King Nigel asked,
“Sonic the Hedgehog.” Blaze said, and by the look on their faces they recognized that name. “It appears you’ve heard of him?”
“The one gifted by Solaris for his unnatural speed and survived an encounter with ghost pirates. I'd say he’s become a well-known figure across the world.” Princess Sally said,
“So not only does Mobotropolis have the Flame of Solaris, but they also abducted the Elites' brother? To what end?” King Nigel asked,
“We don’t know. What we do know is that Sonic was able to retrieve the flame and free his brother… but it was at a cost.” Blaze said,
They waited for Blaze to finish the story.
“Because Sonic is blessed by the flame he is able to wield it. However, after Starline almost unleashed the flames of disaster, the flame of Solaris was weakened. It needed an anchor to be used.” She explained,
“I don’t follow…” Princess Sally said looking confused.
“The flame had the ability to teleport, but the wielder would have to stay behind for the magic to work. Sonic used the flames' power to send his brother and the flame to safety but ended up Mobotropolis’ prisoner in his stead.”
“So Emperor Robotnik is holding an Elite prisoner?” King Nigel said looking outraged,
“The worst of it is the Emperor is denying they have him at all. Right now all my sight can show me is that he is still alive. Hidden deep within Mobotropolis. Sonic risked his life to prevent the flames of disaster from destroying the world.” Blaze said,
“Sonic’s brother, is he alright?” Princess Sally said,
“Tails is… I mean, yes. His brother is the one who told us what happened.” Amy stumbled through her explanation.
“Are there any others to corroborate his story?” King Nigel asked. Princess Sally shoots him a glare for asking.
“Yes, my childhood friend, Silver, a well-known monster hunter, went with Sonic to rescue Tails.” They are on another mission of great importance; however I can request they both come here if you need further proof.” Blaze said as the three looked at her surprised.
Tails and Silver were on the Final Hazard with Shadow…
“No, that won’t be necessary. I do wish to discuss this further. But I think that is enough today. Allow us a few days to consider your request.” King Nigel said.
“Of course.” Blaze said with a bow and the other three followed suit.
Amy looked away seeing Princess Sally was watching her closely again as she struggled to bow. It felt almost humiliating to know others could see her weakness.
“We shall have rooms set up for you all, as our guests.” Princess Sally said, the King nodding in agreement.
“Thank you for the generous offer, we shall gladly accept.” Blaze said.
A guard walks up and escorts them out.
“That went better than I was expecting.” Vector said quietly,
“They still need to decide… the hard part is far from over.” Espio said,
“Espio is right, We’ll just have to wait and see what they decide.” Amy said.
She prays that they can get more help to save Sonic…
Sonic doesn’t remember when he stopped reacting to the sound of the cell door opening. What was the point? It just meant more tests, more torture, more interrogations… He just wanted to sleep.
“Get up Hedgehog.” The Emperor's voice grated on his ears. Letting out an annoyed groan, not wanting to hear whatever crack theories he had thought up today. “I have something to show you.”
Emperor Robotnik, or his newly dubbed nickname Eggman, made that sentence sound so sinister. It sent an uncomfortable chill down his spine, not just because the only thing he wore was a tattered gray tunic. The Emperor was way too excited and that was never a good sign. But what could he do?
Who knows how long he’s been here… Sure, Eggman and Starline comment all the time that he was abandoned. That the world believes he’s dead. But he wouldn’t trust them as far as he could throw them, sadly not far with the magnetic cuffs welded to his limbs.
They still hadn’t discovered he’s immortal, luckily for him they were too afraid to risk dangerous tests given he’s the ‘last’ of his kind.
“I won’t tell you again.” That was a threat, and one he knew Eggman would keep.
Reluctantly, he lifts his head, letting out a yawn while stretching before crossing his arms with a tired smirk. “Alright, I’m up. What do you want, Egghead?” Sonic’s grin grew wider at Robotnik’s annoyed groan.
“I do not have the energy for your antics today. Hurry up and follow me. Unless you want one of my robots to drag you there?” He threatened again.
Sonic stood up with an exaggerated eye roll, walking up to the Emperor. He'd rather not be dragged anywhere but it would be nice to stretch his legs. “Oh so it’s day time?”
“You’ll never know.” Sonic snarled at the taunt before Robotnik opened the door and led Sonic out into the hallway.
What he wouldn’t give to breathe fresh air… to feel the sun on his fur… sure he was given enough food and water to survive and that flame awful hamster wheel so he could run when he needed to.
All he wants now is to be free.
There still was a chance. They knew his blood was pointing to the Emeralds now. That means they'd have to go look for them. That's when he can try to escape.
It was now that he noticed they were heading down instead of up. This realization made his quills raise, how much farther down does this dungeon go?
“Wow, I didn't know I was getting V.I.P privileges today.” Sonic said,
“Today’s a special day. I figured it was time to show you what all this has been for,” Eggman said.
The door opens, revealing a stone cavern. Artificial lights haphazardly nailed into the ancient looking walls… they looked strangely familiar. Everything was telling him he shouldn’t be here… the energy was off.
His mind flooded to the smell of iron, skeletal bodies chained to the walls and a red glow emanating through the room. Fear caught in his throat at the realization.
This was a Gaia temple…
“So you’re familiar with the Gaia Temples.” Eggman said, noticing his reaction as Sonic stiffened.
He remembers their first adventure and what Shadow had told him. There was a Gaia temple on every continent but not all of them had a Dark Gaia chamber hidden inside.
Robotnik wouldn't go as far as performing the same experiments the Dark Gaia cult did, right? At least not the life threatening ones?
“You built your tower over a Gaia temple?” Sonic asked.
“Of course, after I discovered the ancient texts hidden within these walls. I wanted to be sure no one else had access to this place.” The Emperor said, continuing to walk down the hallway. “Don’t dawdle, Hedgehog.”
Sonic hesitated before following Robotnik. Mind reeling at the thought of what happened to him in his previous life, how Saris was sacrificed in an attempt to summon a Chaos Emerald.
The worst part was that it worked…
He watched Shadow burn the research notes, there's no way Eggman could know. But that didn't mean he wouldn't attempt other terrible experiments.
They get to a larger room, a strange pedestal in the center. For some reason it didn’t look complete. The room was naturally illuminated with a warm jade glow. It wasn’t the sun, but it was much nicer than the harsh unnatural lighting of the tower.
“Look here,” Robotnik gestures to the pictographs behind the pedestal.
It depicted a scary looking creature Sonic could only assume was Dark Gaia. His form surrounded the world, and it was fractured into pieces. The mural next to it showed the seven chaos emeralds inside seven different buildings circled around a creature he didn't recognize.
“My theory is that the Chaos Emeralds are needed to awaken Dark Gaia. If I can awaken him, I can harness his energy to empower my robots and conquer the planet.” Emperor Robotnik said.
Sonic’s quills raise angrily hearing that. “First, you triggered the flames of disaster and almost plunged the world into fire. I knew you were twisted but I didn’t realize you were just straight up crazy.” Sonic said with a snarl. “I get you wanting the Emeralds to power your monstrous inventions… but now you want to awaken a dark god?”
“Insult all you want, but the Chaos Emeralds need time to recharge after they are used. Hence all the wasted time we’ve spent not looking for them. And I would only awaken him enough to steal his energy.” Eggman said, turning and heading back towards the entrance of the temple.
“The Emeralds energy only gets used up when I use all seven of them.” Sonic argued.
“Oh ho! So their energy stays constant if I'm only using one at a time?” Robotnik said with a gleam of triumph. Sonic flinches, realizing he gave Robotnik information about the Chaos Emeralds.
“T-that's beside the point! You would risk the world literally breaking apart just for more power?” Sonic said, following after him.
“For my reign to be supreme, I will do whatever it takes.”
Sonic was thoroughly convinced that Eggman was insane. Does he not understand destroying the world would destroy him in the process? He didn’t want to indulge his crazy fantasies, so he kept quiet the rest of their walk back to his cell.
He wasn’t expecting to see Starline waiting for them back in the cell. It looked like he had just finished installing a strange cord into the ceiling.
Them together in his cell never bodes well for him.
“How did he take the news?” Starline asked with a smile that made Sonic’s skin crawl. A fake soft smile in an attempt to get Sonic to let his guard down. But he is used to his twisted games now.
“What do you think?” Robotnik said with a huff. The door closing behind them somehow felt heavier than usual. “Is it ready?”
Sonic isn’t given a chance to ask before the restraints are activated and he falls to the ground. Immediately struggling out of instinct although it’s to no avail. But whatever they had planned he knew he was not going to like it.
“Stay still, Hedgehog, this will only take a moment.” Robotnik said as Starline walked closer, a glint of silver in his hands before Sonic felt a click against his neck. Hearing the Platypus hiss in pain getting cut from Sonic's spines.
“Serves you right.” Sonic snarled, still fighting the restraints.
Then he felt his entire body radiate in searing pain. It caused him to choke back a scream as the electrical current wrecked through him.
Sonic’s vision went white, and his ears rang. Unaware he let out a weak whine before he came to. Muffled raised voices barely give his mind something to latch on to.
Then a pinch of pain, nothing compared to what he just experienced, pierced his arm. “-reflecting his Chaos levels. Once he's connected, the energy level should be low enough to not be so severe.”
“The hell you do to me?” Sonic slurred, muscles too sore to even attempt to move. Seeing Starline holding a syringe full of his blood.
“Your new corrective collar.” Robotnik said. He moved into view, knowing Sonic was too weak to turn his head. “To make sure you are compliant during the next phase of tests.” Sonic's ears fold back.
“It's meant to use your chaos energy against you. However, your chaos levels are a lot stronger than anticipated. I'd recommend we wait till he's recovered before installing the cord.” Starline said.
“No, we stay on schedule. Install the cord but I'll wait to test it till later.” Emperor Robotnik said.
Starline lets out a sigh before grabbing the cord. He connects it to the back of the collar, grimacing at the exhale of pain Sonic let out.
“There's a second feature of the collar. It can syphon some of your Chaos energy to power the tower.” Robotnik said.
“That could kill me…” Sonic said.
If he lost all of his chaos energy, would he come back to life like he did before? Or would he truly die?
“No need to worry, there's a shutoff failsafe if your energy levels are too low.” Starline reassured.
“Gee, I feel better already.” Sonic deadpanned. “How are we supposed to look for the Chaos Emeralds if I'm a part of the Tower?”
He paled seeing the Emperor's sinister grin.
“You're not going to search for them, Starline is.” Robotnik said.
Sonic put the pieces together… With the Warp Topaz, Starline can jump back here to collect more blood whenever he runs low. The fear finally weighs down on him at the horrifying realization.
His plans to attempt an escape were gone.