[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 11: A Friend and Hero Restored

"Reprioritizing objective... capture Shadow the hedgehog."

"Sorry Mecha Sonic but you'll find that I won't be going down so easily this time."

Mecha charges towards Shadow at full speed. Shadow does the same. As the two came within striking distance, Mecha struck first with a punch but shockingly, Shadow disappeared in front of him, leaving only an afterimage.
Mecha looked at the transparency but seconds later he got elbowed in the face by Shadow when he came back through the afterimage. Mecha was knocked back into three trees. Upon the fourth, he flipped around and kicked off of the tree and did a spin dash. Shadow flew towards him with both arms glowing.

"Chaos Spear!"

Two golden spears were launched towards Mecha. Due to Shadow's amplified powers, the spears managed to stop Mecha. He falls to the ground. Shadow then lands and skates towards the machine. As Mecha got on his right knee trying to stand up, Shadow, with his right hand, delivered a punch unto Mecha's stomach. Using his left, he swung his fist across Mecha's face, knocking him back even further.

"Not so tough now are you?"

A few seconds passed before Mecha Sonic stood back up again.

"Even when roboticized, you still express the resilience that you always had in order to win."

As Mecha tried to walk, he began to jerk his head from side to side.

"Looks like I managed to damage some of your circuits."

"Must... not.... fail... objective."

"Are you sure you want to keep this up? One more hit like that and you could end up nothing more than a pile of scrap metal."

Mecha slowly lifts his left hand with his palm facing towards Shadow. In the middle of the palm, a small circular opening appeared. A bright light began to glow from that opening.

"I... will... accomplish... my... goal!"

Mecha Sonic fired a beam towards Shadow. Using his speed, Shadow dodged the beam but he soon realize that isn't over yet. Mecha began to fire a barrage of beams at the hedgehog. While dodging the beams, Shadow skated for Mecha. Realizing that shooting beams endlessly was not going to work, Mecha slammed his palm into the ground and fired a beam there. The resulting blast blew dirt and dust into the air. Shadow stops his advance.

"Hiding behind a cloud of dust will only delay your defeat."

Considering the possibility that Mecha could try to attack straight out from the cloud, Shadow prepares himself by putting his fists close to his face. After the dust cloud vanished, Shadow was shocked to find a hole that had been dug and not Mecha Sonic.

"A hole? Crap! That means-"

Shadow looks at the ground under him and he sees it begins to crack apart. Out came Mecha Sonic with an uppercut right to Shadow's face. When Shadow was knocked off the ground, Mecha grabs his right foot him and slams him on the ground. After that, he lifts Shadow up by the leg and blasts him with a beam upclose. Shadow landed on the ground and rolled around. Shadow tried standing back up but Mecha grabbed his face and slammed his head aganist a tree. As Mecha Sonic was charging up another beam, Shadow pounded down on Mecha Sonic's arm that was holding him up. Mecha was forced to release his hold but upon doing so, he fired his beam. Shadow ducked in time and Mecha missed, blowing away the tree instead. Still low to the ground, Shadow spun around and kicked Mecha in the face as he made the full spin. After he was hit, Mecha Sonic flipped around and landed on his feet. Shadow skated after Mecha. Seeing this, Mecha Sonic began to wheel back.

"Chaos Control!"

Shadow appeared behind Mecha and kicked him on the back. After that, Mecha stood up and tried to blast Shadow with a beam but got hit by the hedgehog's spin dash attack.

"Give up Mecha Sonic. You are already too weak to continue like this."

"This unit... must not fail... Lord Robotnik."

As a last ditch effort, Mecha Sonic put his rocket thrusters at full power. After doing so, he boosted forward at Shadow at a speed that began to damage his internal circuitry. Closing on Shadow, Mecha lifted his right fist and attempted to punch Shadow across the face. Shadow himself, however, was quick to see this and stopped Mecha's attack with his left palm. Not willing to give up, Mecha Sonic tried to put his thrusters beyond their maximum capacity to try to make Shadow lose his hold. But with his circuits damaged beyond repair, Mecha Sonic began to lose power, and with his eyes going offline, he ceased to function. Shadow let go of his grip and caught Mecha Sonic as the machine fell forward into his arm.

"Time to bring you back Sonic."

Shadow carried Mecha Sonic into his arms and teleported back to Knothole. Once there, he was greeted by the other Freedom Fighters.

"Shadow? Are you alright?" asked Sally.

"Of course I am. I can't say the same for Sonic though."

"Oh my gosh. Look at him."

Sally looked on with a concerned look on her face.

"Still think it's possible to bring him back the way he was using the de-Roboticizer?"

"I sure hope so. Rotor, what do you think?"

"Well, as long as Sonic is fully intact, the de-roboticizing process should work."

"Alright then. Let's get him back."

The Freedom Fighters walk into Rotor's lab and entered a small room. In the center of the room stood a large tube.
Shadow gently placed Mecha Sonic inside. Rotor walked over to a small computer located on the tube's side and started to type in codes.

"Okay. Here goes. Let's hope it works."

After putting in all of the codes, Rotor grabbed a lever nest to the computer and pulled it down. The tube began to glow a bright light. It would be moments later when the inside would be visible again, with Sonic finally back to normal. Everyone sighed in relief to see that their blue comrade have returned. Sonic walks out.

"Good to have ya back sugah-hog" said Bunnie with a smile.

[Sonic shakes his head] "What happened?"

"You mean you don't remember a thing?" asked Sally.

"No. All I remember was being at Robotnik's base then next thing I know, I'm here. Not to mention that I also have this huge headache."

"That would be me" said Shadow.

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"Ever since you got roboticized, I had to stop you from destroying Knothole."

"Ah... I see. How hard did you hit me?"

"Apparantly not hard enough."

"Haha. Very funny. But seriously though, sorry for what I did back at Robuttnik's base. I don't know what I was thinking."

"It's fine. Just make sure it doesn't happen again."

"Dont worry. I'll have this headache to remind me."

As Sonic rubs his head, Espio, Mighty, and Vector walked in, surprising everyone. NICOLE appears before them.

"Were you three successful in your mission?"

"We sure were" said a grinning Mighty.

Mighty pulled out from behind him the very artifact that would restore Shadow from the crystalline side-effect, the Crown of Acorns.

"Yes! The Crown!" said King Max.

King Max approached Mighty and takes the Crown. He then faced Shadow.

"Shadow, take this Crown and place it upon your head so that you may rid of your cursed burden."

King Max puts his hands out to give Shadow the Crown. Shadow takes it and puts it on his head. A golden light began to illuminate from the Crown. The light eventually covered all of Shadow. He closes his eyes as the light grew brighter. The rest of the Freedom Fighters continued to look on. Several moments later, the light grew dimmer, all of it eventually returning into the Crown. Shadow takes it off.

"How do you feel Shadow?" asked King Max.

"Completely rejuvenated."

"Good to hear. I'm glad to know it's over."

Shadow hands the Crown over to King Max who takes it with a smile.

"Well, now that everything has been settled, I think I'll be heading to bed now. Good night everyone."

King Max walks out of the lab.

"So, where's the SWATbot platoon?" asked Sally.

"What SWATbot platoon? We took out everyone one of those rust buckets" said Mighty. "Trust us, we wouldn't jeopardize everyone here by allowing those worthless robots to follow us."

"Good to know. Thank you Chaotix!"

"No problem princess. Anytime the Freedom Fighters need their allies for help, we'll be there."

With that said, Mighty pulled out a warp ring and a portal was generated. Mighty and Vector walks through. Espio stops in front of Shadow.

"Here. Think you'll be wanting these back."

Espio hands Shadow the inhibitor rings that was left back at the Great Forest. Shadow locks them back into place on his wrists.

"I could of got them myself."

Taking this as Shadow's way of saying thank you, Espio gives a salute and walks through the portal. Sally walks up next to Shadow and wraps both of her arms around Shadow's right one.

"Tired honey?"

"Warmed up is more like it. Beating the crap out of Sonic has got my blood pumping."

"Oh yeah? Bet you enjoyed that."

"Beyond satisfaction. Anytime you want a rematch, just let me know."

"I'll be sure to Shadow."

[jay the Echina]

this is a good story are you going to write anouther story

[UltimateLifeForm]

jay the Echina, on May 20 2009, 03:49 PM, said:

this is a good story are you going to write anouther story

Thanks jay. Glad you enjoyed reading it. Anyways, before I begin writing another story, I first need to decide on a good plot for another one. I have some ideas but they are not concrete at the moment. For now, I'll stick with Shadow Gaiden and continue to write more chapters until it's complete.

P.S.- Welcome to Sonic Online!

[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 12: A New Team, A New Life

It is another cool morning at the Freedom Fighter's home sanctuary. This particular morning, however, was different. In fact, all of today is different. Today was Shadow the hedgehog's eighteenth birthday. Speaking of our hero, he is seen walking around the village of Knothole. The only thing that seems wrong is from the look on Shadow's face. The hedgehog knows that today is his birthday, but does not seem too excited by it. As he continues to walk around, Sonic runs by and stops.

"Yo Shadow! Happy B-Day man!"

"Hmph!"

"What's the matter? You don't seem too happy on your special day."

"That's because I'm not. You know me well enough to realize that I don't celebrate my birthday."

"Aw come on Shadow, loosen up. Have some fun in your life."

"No thanks."

Shadow tries to walk away from Sonic but the blue blur again stops in front of him.

"I know. Let's head out to our usual spot."

"Getting chili dogs from the chili dog stand is not going to change things. It'll just make it worse."

"I never said anything about eating chili dogs. I meant racing there."

"A race? [He crosses his arms] Honestly Sonic?"

"Yea sure why not. What, are you afraid of losing again?"

"Sonic, both you and I know that everytime we go the chili dog stand, I always get there first."

"Pssh. Yea right. Just admit it Shadow. I'll win hands down."

"Fine. A quick race here and back."

"Cool. But first I'll need to get some chili dogs before we come back here."

"You can make them here. I'm not stopping for anything."

"Alright. Whatever you say."

The two hedgehogs looked at one another for a few seconds. Then, quicker than the blink of an eye, the two speed off into the horizon. At this time, Sally and Bunnie emerges from Sally's abode, taking in deep breaths from the fresh air.

"We sure have been getting good weather huh Bunnie?"

"We sure have Sally-girl. So, you have any birthday plans for your sugah-hog?"

"No. Shadow isn't the kind of guy who's into celebrations. He told me himself."

"So no big party like last year?"

"Nope."

"Aw. Too bad."

Sally and Bunnie walks down the last flight of stairs and sat down to enjoy the morning breeze. Mere seconds would pass when both Shadow and Sonic arrived simultaneously.

"Well, looks like I won Shadow."

"We came here at the same time."

"So you're willing to admit that its a tie?"

"It's better than declaring you the winner."

"Stop a being a spoiled sport."

Shadow crosses his arms in silence. Bunnie stands up, runs over to Shadow, hugs him around the neck and gives him a kiss on the cheek.

"Happy birthday sugah-hog."

"Thanks... I suppose."

"Happy birthday Shadow" said Sally with a smile.

"Thanks to you too as well Sally."

Shadow walks away from the group but encounters Antoine.

"Happy-"

"No need for that Antoine. I've already received too many birthday greetings."

"But surely there is no harm in hearing it from everyone is there?" asked Sally.

"No. It's just that I'm not excited about this day."

"We know Shadow. Just at least try to relax."

"I was just going to do that."

Shadow resumes his walk back to wherever he was going but was stopped by King Max.

"Morning Shadow."

"Your majesty."

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but today is your eighteenth birday am I correct?"

"Yes it is."

"Most excellent. If you don't mind Shadow, do you think you can spare some of your time? There is an important matter that I must discuss with you in private."

"Of course."

Shadow and King Max walks to Shadow's home. With the front door closed behind them, King Max clears his throat.

"Now Shadow, as you know, being an adult means that you have much more responsibilities, not to mention more respect."

"And the point to that is what your majesty?"

King Max closes his eyes for a couple of seconds, then opened them again.

"How would you like to join the Royal Secret Service?"

"I thought they were disbanded."

"They were but they have been reinstated after the knowledge of my return."

"Guess they really do stay on top of things."

"So? Will you?"

"They are like the Freedom Fighters King Max. They do what we do and that is to undermine Robotnik's plan. There is no need for me to join them."

"Ah, but they do much more than destroy Robotnik's plans. They also help safeguard the planet from major threats. Besides, the Secret Service is comprised of the best well-trained and well-minded Mobians."

"Well-minded seems to be an understatement."

"Yes, I have to agree that members of the Royal Secret Service can be arrogant at times but they do perform their duties with all seriousness. But they can better themselves with you on the team.Your skills have been deemed of high calibur, thus you will serve to be the perfect agent. Who knows, you may also be given the title of commander."

"Didn't Geoffrey St. John already achieved that title? I don't think he would be happy to know that I took over."

"He will understand."

"I am sorry your majesty, but I can't simply leave the Freedom Fighters. They may need me more than the Royal Secret Service does."

Shadow walks towards the front door.

"It's my daughter isn't it? You two seem to share quite a deep and strong relationship."

"And she is the reason why I can't leave."

"I can talk to my daughter. She will need to understand."

Shadow opens the door. As Shadow walks, Sally comes to him.

"So, What was it that my father had to discuss with you that could only be conversed in private?"

"You're about to find out right now."

Without completely turning around, Shadow turns his head to King Max. Sally looks in the same direction and sees her father there by the doorway. Sally knew that he had something to say to her as well. Silently, she walked up to her father and closed the door.

"Yes father? What do you need to tell me?"

"Sally, as you already realized, Shadow has reached the age of adulthood, therefore he must assume more responsibilities."

"What are you trying to say?"

"I offered Shadow the opportunity the join the Royal Secret Service."

"What was his response?"

"He told me that he could not leave the Freedom Fighters because of you."

"Oh. I see."

Sally looks down to the floor in thought.

"Sally, what is the matter?"

She looks up.

"Father, as I grew up, you always taught me the ways of a being a proper princess. Not only that, you also have told me that I should always put the people's concerns before mine. I love Shadow, but if you need him for this task, then I understand. It will be best for all of Mobius."

King Max walks up to his daughter and hugs her.

"It seems I have taught you well. I am proud of you. Go tell Shadow of your decision. I believe he will be more convinced if you were to tell him."

"Yes father."

The two realease their hugs and Sally opens the door. There stood Shadow before the stairs.

"Well?"

"You may join my father's Royal Secret Service. It will be best for you."

"But Sally-"

"I know you are concerned for me Shadow but don't be. With you joining with some of the best trained Mobian agents, you will have better chances at defeating Robotnik."

"But I have been with you and the others for so long. I just can't leave."

"Do it Shadow. Not only for me, but for all of Mobius as well."

Sally walks up and hugs Shadow. The two lock lips. After several seconds, they release their embracement.

"Remember what I said before you had left on your mission because of your nightmare?"

"No matter where I am, you will always support me."

"Precisely. Now go, I want to give you as much time as possible to get settled with your new teammates."

Shadow gives a small grin. After looking into each other's eyes for a few moments, Shadow makes his way to King Max who stood there at the doorway.

"Your majesty, I accept the offer."

"Most excellent. You will not regret your decision. Come, I'll take you to their base of operations."

King Max pats Shadow on the shoulder and walks past him. Shadow walks behind the King and quietly follows him to his new home and comrades.

"Yo Sal. Where's Shadow goin?" asked Sonic who had arrived on the scene.

"He's leaving the Freedom Fighters."

"What? Why?"

"He's going to be a member of the Royal Secret Service now."

"And you're just going to let him go?"

"Sonic, it was me that approved the decision. It's for the best."

The two looked on as Shadow and King Max walks out of their line of view.

Shifting now to a new scene, we find ourselves at a mysterious location.

"What is this place?" asked Shadow.

"The Royal Secret Service's training grounds."

"We must be close to the base then."

"Closer than you think."

Shadow continued to look around the place but saw nothing except for old simlulation robots lying on the ground rusting. Seconds later, a piece of the ground lifted up, revealing a passageway. Out came the members of the Royal Secret Service.

"Good day to you King Maximillian" said Geoffrey as he bowed. "Is there another mission for us?"

"Not quite. I'm here to present to you your newest member."

Geoffrey and the others looked at Shadow and realized that King Max meant him.

"Shadow the hedgehog? But King Maximillian, isn't he already a Freedom Fighter?"

"Was. He will now take over your position as leader and train you all in extreme training programs to better prepare every one of you for future missions."

"Oh great. As if the current regimen wasn't enough" said Valdez with a sigh.

"Take over as leader?" asked Geoffrey in a surprising tone. "How do you know he is even capable of such a status?"

"With age comes with experience. Since Shadow is the oldest, he can better handle himself in the battlefield."

"Yes but-"

"Deal with it skunk" said Shadow as he inturrupted Geoffrey. "I didn't want to do this either but then I realized that it would benefit Mobius in the end if I were to lead you guys."

"How dare you address me that way! I don't care if you are some hot shot hero. You are with a new team now, and like all recruits, you must pass a series of tests before you can be admitted."

"Enough Geoffrey! It is by my order that Shadow takes over."

Geoffrey bows down.

"I am sorry Your Highness. Forgive my rudeness. It's just that this new transition is so sudden that I yet have to cope with it."

"I understand but you must now consider the situation we are in."

"Yes."

Geoffrey gets back up and walks towards Shadow. Then, surprisingly to Shadow, the headstrong skunk offered his hand for a friendly shake.

"Welcome to the team. You are now officially the leader of the Royal Secret Service."

Skeptical at first, Shadow simply looked at the skunk's hand. But after the seeing the straight face shown on Geoffrey, Shadow shook his hand.

"Don't think just because I shook your hand means that our rivalry has softened."

"Of course not."

"Magnificent. Now that the two of you have reconciled, I believe it is time for the start of the new training practices. Good luck to all. I will visit again in due time."

King Max salutes the members and leaves.

"So, Shadow, what's our first training excercise?" asked Geoffrey.

"Simple."

Shadow's body began to glow with Chaos energy.

"An endurance test. Let's see how well you guys can withstand my Chaos powers."

Valdez lets out a big sigh.

"I should have overslept today."

[Scourgekito the hedgehog]

wow I'm gone for two weeks and you write this much!Cool...anyway very nice as always and I never got to read the comic with mecha sonic in it...any who I'm sorry for not posting for awhile some friends of mine asked me to try making a forum of my own and I've been trying to multi task and I'm two weeks behind there too.I can only get on every other Friday and Saturday, church Sunday so I can not then.But very well done and I hope you get around to making more stories.

[UltimateLifeForm]

Scourgekito the hedgehog, on May 22 2009, 01:46 PM, said:

wow I'm gone for two weeks and you write this much!Cool...anyway very nice as always and I never got to read the comic with mecha sonic in it...any who I'm sorry for not posting for awhile some friends of mine asked me to try making a forum of my own and I've been trying to multi task and I'm two weeks behind there too.I can only get on every other Friday and Saturday, church Sunday so I can not then.But very well done and I hope you get around to making more stories.

Hey! Good to hear from ya again Scourgekito! I was beginning to wonder when you would come back online. So you're workin on your own forums huh? That's awesome! I hope you succeed in creating it. I'll be looking forward to check it out once it's complete.

P.S.- I have actually have already thought of another plot for a new story but it's still kind of an abstract idea. Hopefully by the time I'm done with Shadow Gaiden, it will be more clearer.

[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 13: Mission Gone Awry

Ten days have passed since Shadow had settled in with the Royal Secret Service and training the agents. Much progress seemed to have been made for the Secret Service members seem less arrogant then they usually are. The extensive and hardcore training methods seemed to have worked. Shadow was not seen at this moment, so Geoffrey decided to take over momentarily to train with the others.

[Heavily breathing in and out] "Come on slowpokes. You all can run faster than that."

"But Geoffrey, we've already done what we can" said Valdez as he too was heavily breathing.

"I don't care. We gotta stay in tip top shape."

Geoffrey began to push himself harder and runs a bit faster. The others were quickly losing ground.

"Come on let's go. I'm about to make you guys run another ten miles."

"Sorry to break it to ya Geoffrey but you're not leader. We don't have to continue if we don't want to."

Geoffrey stops. The others did so as well.

"You don't think I know that Valdez?"

"Uh..."

"No. Don't speak. Just because Shadow has taken over doesn't mean that I still can't work you guys."

Geoffrey looks at the agents and realized that Hershey was missing.

"Where's Hershey?"

"She was behind us minutes ago" said Wombat Stu.

"Oh great. I think I know where she is. Stay here you guys. I'll be back."

Geoffrey walks past the agents and pulls out a remote. He presses a button and up from the ground came the hidden passageway. Geoffrey enters. Down below he sees Hershey standing there.

"There you are Hershey!"

"Oh! Geoffrey! How's your day?"

"Don't change the subject. I think you know why I'm here."

"It's because I'm not up there running with you guys right?"

"Exactly. And why is that?"

"Oh, well, I was just greeting Shadow a good morning."

Geoffrey looks over Hershey's shoulder and finds Shadow getting off the bed.

"Morning sir."

"Making your daily ten mile run again?"

"Yes sir."

"Good."

"Now that you're up, are you going to resume the training schedule as usual?"

"No."

"Say what?"

"It has been ten days."

"What does that have to with-"

"Get the others down here and meet me in the briefing room. Don't ask questions."

Having no other choice but to follow Shadow's order, Geoffrey goes and gets the remaining Secret Service agents. Once everyone has been accounted for, they head into the briefing room where Shadow stood there waiting for them.

"Everyone's here now Shadow. What's the news?" asked Geoffrey.

"For ten days I have trained you guys, not only to get stronger physically, but also mentally. Today will be your final test. You all shall mount a rescue mission."

"Finally! A real time mission! Who do we got to save?"

"King Max's wife and son."

"WHAT?!" exclaimed everyone in unison.

"That's right. All of your training have been to prepare you all for this day."

"You mean you knew all along?"

"Of course I did."

"Wanna start explaining yourself Shadow?"

"Are you demanding me to tell you?"

"I think we all deserve to know. After all, we are going to save them."

"Fine. At first, I did not know why King Max had ask me to join you guys, but as we made our way here, he explained everything."

Flashback:

Upon leaving Knothole, Shadow and King Max make their way to the Royal Secret Service's home base. Shadow, however, did not feel like walking far.

"Can't you just tell me where it is so I can just teleport there? It would go by quicker."

"No Shadow. Walking is better for us. We should enjoy this nice and calm weather."

Shadow gives no response.

"Now Shadow, let me ask you. Do you know why I needed you to join the Secret Service?"

"Not exactly."

"Well then, allow me to explain. The truth of why I asked to uphold this task was to help save my wife and son."

"Did you just say your son?"

"Yes... yes I did. His name is Elias. He was sent away along with my wife during the Great War. They were to be sent to Angel Island for safety but their ship was shot down."

"Where are they now?"

"They were in Haven but the Dark Legion have taken them captive while they were there and have put them in cells at their base."

"How do you know all of this?"

"I have my sources."

"You could have told me sooner. I could go the Dark Legion's base on my own and rescue them."

"It's far too dangerous. You may wield the Chaos Force but so does the Dark Legion members. You will clearly be outmatched sooner than you think."

"And to make sure that the mission is successful, you'll need me to go with several others."

"Precisely Shadow."

"Then why not ask the Freedom Fighters?"

"Because I do not want my daughter to get involved."

"She doesn't have to know."

"True, but I believe it will be better this way. While the Freedom Fighters thwart Robotnik's many plans, you will be training the Secret Service agents in the meantime until they are ready. Once they are, you will lead them into the Dark Legion's base and retrieve my wife and son."

"Killing two birds with one stone. A good plan your majesty. So once this is over, will I be able to rejoin the Freedom Fighters?"

"Certainly Shadow. You didn't think your stay in with Secret Service would be permanent did you?"

"I would have but it was a good thing you told me your true intention."

"Hahaha! Indeed."

Back to present:

"Now you all know."

"So, all we have to do is barge through the Dark Legion's headquarters and rescue the royal Acorn wife and son huh?"

"Easier said then done Geoffrey but yea, that's all there is to this mission."

"No problem then. This mission will be over quick."

"Once again, you're cocky. Don't you ever learn that cockiness will never leave you successful?"

"Nope cause it has never happened to me."

"Lucky you then. Alright, enough talk! Let's move out. We have to accomplish our mission before this day is over."

"Yes sir!"

After giving the command, Shadow skated out of the base. The Secret Service agents followed. Strangely, Shadow stops once they were outside.

"Whay are you stopping Shadow?" asked Hershey.

"Everyone, lock arms. I'm going to use Chaos Control."

The agents did what they were told. Once everyone had locked together, Shadow grabbed Hershey's wrist and teleported them to the Dark Legion's base.

"Wow!" exclaimed Valdez. "They sure have improved the security of this whole place."

"Tell me about it" said Geoffrey. "I could see why now King Max needed us here. Anyways, how do we get inside? From what I can tell, there's no front door."

"Guess we'll just have to bust our way in."

Shadow skated towards the front of the Dark Legion's base. He was spotted by several minions posted near the base.

"Sound the alarm! We have intruders!"

"I don't think so."

Shadow quickly increased his speed and managed to knock out one of the guards that was heading towards the alarm. He then took out the rest of the sentries.

"Look at him go! He's really handin it to them" said Wombat Stu.

"Hmph! He's going to need our help down there. Let's move it!"

Geoffrey and the others jumped out of their hiding place and intiated their assault. As more minions became aware of the attack, more and more came out to halt Shadow and the agents. However, Shadow and the others proved more formidable than predicted and the minions soon retreated.

"HA! These guys are cake" said Geoffrey with a smile on his face.

"This is just the beginning. Stay alert!"

Shadow and the agents moved closer to the base but upon close proximity, they encountered Lien-Da.

"Well, look at what we have here. A group of misfits causing trouble."

"Out of the way Lien-Da. You can't stop us."

"Shadow. It's good to see that you have returned to your normal self."

"Cut the crap! I'm here on an important mission."

"Is that so? That's too bad. You see, if you wish to enter this base, you'll have to pass by me."

Lien-Da cracks her whip.

"Couldn't see it any other way. Hershey!"

Hershey immediately leaped up towards Lien-Da with claws extended. Lien-Da saw this and tried to hit Hershey away but the feline already swiped her claws across the echidna's chest.

"You fur ball! How dare you!"

"Sorry. When I get angry, I tend to slash at things."

"Ugh! You'll pay."

Lien-Da raises her whip in an attempt to hit Hershey but someone from behind holds onto her weapon.

[Gasps] "Shadow!"

"Not this time Lien-Da."

Shadow forcibly removes the whip from her hands. Without any way to defend herself, she tried to run away but was stopped by Geoffrey.

"You're not going anywhere."

Geoffrey formed a fist and pounded Lien-Da on the head, knocking her out.

"There. That should take care of her."

Geoffrey walked over to where the others were standing and looked down.

"I'm guessin we are going to enter through this hole."

"You guessed right."

Shadow got on his left knee and with his right fist, he smashed through the metal gate, revealing a corridor.

"Let's go."

Shadow jumped down, followed by the others. The agents soon found themselves inside of the base.

"Looks like they have been doing some redecorating. How are we going to find that prison cell?"

"Easy. We just find a Dark Legion minion that is willing to talk."

Shadow looked around and spotted a minion watching them. Shadow quickly skated towards him and grabbed his shirt with both hands and lifted him off the ground.

"Start talking! Where is the prison cell?"

"I won't tell you a thing!"

"Looks like I'll have to try to knock some sense into you."

Still holding onto the minion's shirt with his right hand, Shadow took his left and rolled it into a fist as Chaos energy began to flow from it.

"Now, I'll ask you one more time. Where is the prison cell?"

"I can't tell! Dimitri will kill me!"

"I think you should be more worried about me now than your leader. You see, even though we both possess the Chaos Force, my powers are greater. So, if you don't tell me where it is, I will punch you straight across the face so hard that you will end up decapitated."

"No! Please! Alright, I'll tell you!"

"Start talking!"

"The prison cell is located on the lower level of this base."

"Be more specific."

"It's an underground chamber. All you have to do is take the elevator to get there."

"And where is that?"

"It's across the main corridor. Walk out through the door there."

The minion pointed behind Shadow and showed him a metal door.

"You had better hope you're telling the truth."

Shadow throws the minion back on the ground. He then walks towards the door. Shadow signals the others to stay close. He punches the door open and the agents begin their walk to the elevator.

"I have a bad feeling about this" said Valdez.

"Be vigilant! Something may be up."

"Funny you should say that Shadow, cuz it looks like we already have company!"

From in front of the Secret Service agents stood two cybernetic echidnas.

"Those must be the elite Dark Legion soldiers!" said Geoffrey.

"Bomb! Quick! Blow them out of our way!"

Bomb responded to Shadow's command and made his way towards the two cybernetic sentinels.

"This is gonna be one heck of a blast!'

As Bomb got closer, he leaped up towards the elite soldiers. However, Bomb's attack backfired for one he was repelled by a Chaos energy burst that knocked him back.

"Looks like this one for me then."

Shadow dashed towards the soldiers at full speed. The two elite minions again used their Chaos Burst attack to try to push back Shadow but the hedgehog simply shrugs it off.

"You guys are going to have to unleash a stronger and better attack in order to stop me."

Shadow makes a final dash towards the two guards and takes them out.

"Now that they are out of the way, there should be no more problems."

The team makes their way into the elevator and they go begin to descend to the underground chamber. Once the elevator stopped, they walked out and to their surprise, Dimitri was standing there.

"Looks like you spoke too soon" said Geoffrey with a concerned look on his face.

"Dimitri! Step away from the queen and the prince."

"Hmph! You dare to order me around?"

"I don't have time for your nonsense. If you don't step aside, then I will force you to move."

"You know, it really is a shame that Chaos never got the chance to obtain his body and rule Mobius. I would have acquired my own domain to rule over."

"Looks like you'll be living in a world of false dreams for the rest of your life. Chaos is never coming back."

"I beg to differ Shadow. You see, Chaos may have been 'tamed' for now, but after I'm through with you, he shall return."

"And how do you plan on doing that?

"Never thought you'd ask."

Dimitri pulled out a warp ring and tossed it. A portal was generated behind him. He tossed the royal queen and prince through.

"No! Why you-"

"Geoffrey stand down! Dimitri, where did you toss them?"

"Angel Island, where else."

"But why?"

"You shall see."

Dimitri ran through the portal. Shadow and the others quickly followed and all them managed to make it through. The agents found themselves inside of the Master Emerald chamber. They see Dimitri next to the giant gem itself along with the queen and prince on the side.

"Ah, the Master Emerald. It is such a magnficent gem is it not? So much power, just waiting to be used."

"I don't know what you plan on doing with it but for whatever reason it may be, I won't allow you to go through with it."

"Too late hedgehog, your fate have been sealed."

Dimitri jumps on top of the Master Emerald.

"MASTER EMERALD! GIVE ME YOUR POWER! GIVE ME THE STRENGTH TO DESTROY MY FOES!"

The Master Emerald began to glow a bright green. Seconds later, Dimitri would be enveloped in green Chaos energy. As the chamber glew brighter, everyone was forced to cover their eyes. A few more seconds would pass when the chamber would be cleared and everyone could see again.

"Dimitri! What have you done to yourself?

"I have made myself into a demi-god. Also, the name is no longer Dimitri. I shall now be known as... Enerjak."

[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 14: Family Reunion

"Such awesome power! Perhaps I should test it out."

Enerjak swings his right arm towards the queen and prince. Chaos energy flowed from the arm as Enerjak prepares to deliver a final blow towards them.

"Oh no you don't" said Geoffrey. "Heavy! Bomb! Stop that maniac!"

"On it."

Heavy and Bomb ran towards Enerjak. The two jumped up and tried to land attacks but Enerjak saw this and with one swing of his arm, the two agents were vaporized.

"HEAVY! BOMB! NOOO!" screamed Geoffrey. "Enerjak you... you'll pay dearly for killing my fellow comrades!"

Geoffrey made a run towards the demi-god in complete anger but was stopped by Shadow.

"Geoffrey! Stand back! You'll only suffer the same fate as them!"

"I don't care as long as I take down this demi-god down."

Geoffrey pulled from his belt a hand grenade.

"Here! Try this on for size!"

Geoffrey pulls the pin and threw the grenade at Enerjak.

"Geoffrey no! The queen and prince will get caught in the blast radius!"

But Shadow's warning came too late. The grenade had already exploded on making contact with Enerjak. The agents watched in horror as the cloud of smoke began to clear.

"Stupid mortals! Did you honestly think your little toy can harm me?"

Even though Enerjak managed to survive the blast, so did the two royal figures.

"Good. They're still alive."

Shadow turned around and punched Geoffrey.

"You fool! You are fortunate that the queen and prince Elias are still breathing. Next time consider the situation before making your move."

Shadow looked back to Enerjak.

"What do we do now?" asked Valdez.

"Complete our mission. Here's the plan. While I distract Enerjak, one of you will run up there and retrieve Elias and the queen."

"But what if Enerjak-"

"Don't worry. I too wield Chaos power. I should be able to hold him off long enough."

Shadow walks up the altar steps and stops midway.

"Enerjak! Instead of bringing harm to your royal prisoners, how about you fight me?"

"HAHAHA! You certainly are one brave hedgehog to be challenging me."

"Please, Robotnik makes a more worthy foe than you ever will."

"You dare to mock me and my greatness! Very well! Allow me to show you the error of your way!"

Enerjak pulled back both of his arms as Chaos energy began to teem from his body.

"Let's see you stand up to this hedgehog!"

Enerjak thrusted both of his arms forward, unleashing two green energy beams. The two beams then formed together to make one. Shadow shields himself with his arms.

"Hershey! Grab Elias and the queen while I have Enerjak currently concentrated on me!"

Hershey immediately ran up the to the altar.

"Your hignesses! We must leave this place! Come with me!"

The two nodded and followed Hershey.

"Alright! Now that we got em, let's get out of here!" said Valdez.

"But we can't just leave Shadow here all by himself!"

"He can take care of himself Hershey" said Geoffrey as he walked up to the group. "Besides, he would want us to leave."

After saying that, Geoffrey ran out of the chamber. The others quickly followed, including the queen and prince.

"Impressive Shadow! Who would of thought that such a lower being can withstand such an attack and still remain on their feet."

"You forgot Enerjak, Chaos resides within me. Last I checked, Chaos is the master of Chaos Force. With that said, it's no surprise that I am able to stop your technique."

"It's also true that Chaos is also able to manipulate all aspects of it. Why don't you go ahead and try to turn my attack back aganist me?"

"Better yet, how about I blast through it!"

Continuing to shield the beam with his arms, Shadow's body starts to glow a dark orange.

"Chaos Rocket!"

Now encased in Chaos energy, Shadow dashed through the beam from the air. Enerjak tried to halt Shadow by putting more power into the beam, but Shadow continued to fly right on through.

"NO! This can't be happening!"

Shadow breaks out of the beam and hits Enerjak dead on with his Chaos Rocket attack.

"It seems I have underestimated you Shadow. You seem to have exhibited more power than I imagined. Quite intriguing."

"Shut up!"

Shadow jumps up and tries to use his Chaos Spear move on Enerjak. However, Enerjak was prepared and conjured up a small shield to negate the attack. Afterwards, Enerjak levitated into the air and curled up his body. Then, with all of the energy he has gathered up, Enerjak unleashed a ball of destructive energy that covered the chamber. Shadow flew back into a wall from the resulting impact.

"As much as I would like to finish you off, there's a small errand that I must attend to first. As may know, it involves a certain group of echidnas."

"You coward! Why don't you stay and fight?"

"I'll wait until you recover from that last attack. It's no fun fighting those who needs to heal during battle."

Enerjak flies away, leaving Shadow the only one in the Master Emerald chamber. Outside on Angel Island, the Brotherhood spots Enerjak flying into the air.

"Where are you Brotherhood? Come on out and face me!"

"Locke was right. It seems Dimitri have finally achieved his long-term goal of transforming into Enerjak" said Thunderhawk.

"How are we going to stop him?" asked Sojourner.

"We fight to the end" said Sabre.

"Hmph! Why am I not surprised to hear that from you?"

"Sorry Sabre, not this time. We can't risk losing to that scum."

"Then what Thunderhawk?"

"I don't know. I'm still thinking. Perhaps the Chaotix can assist."

"No. We can't. Enerjak is too powerful. There'll just be unneeded blood being spilled."

"Hmm... I suppose you're right Sojourner. So, guess we really don't have a choice but to fight till the end then."

"Wrong Thunderhawk. It will be my son and I that will fight him until the end."

Thunderhawk turned around and saw Locke and Knuckles standing there.

"But Locke, surely you can't hope to win?"

"No, I don't but it will be better if I went."

"How so?"

"I'm old Thunderhawk. My life will soon end. What better way but to end it through an honorable death."

"Stop talking as if you will die so soon Locke" said Sojourner. "You still have years on you yet."

"I realize that Sojourner. But in those later years, I will only serve to be a burden."

"Then what of Knuckles?"

"My son is still young. He has yet to fully tap into the Chaos powers within. I pray that this battle will make him stronger."

"What do you think of this idea Knuckles?"

"I couldn't agree more."

[Sighs] "Very well then Locke. Do as you may. The Brotherhood will pray for your safe return."

"Thank you Sojourner. Come Knuckles! We must make haste!"

Both Locke and Knuckles ran down to the forest and made their way towards the Master Emerald chamber. Elsewhere on Angel Island, the Secret Service agents are seen standing with the Chaotix.

"I gotta make contact with the Freedom Fighters. Hopefully King Maximillian is at Knothole."

Geoffrey pulls out a radio from his belt.

"This is Geoffrey to Freedom HQ! Come in Freedom HQ!"

Inside of Freedom HQ, Rotor hears the call and puts on the headset.

"Freedom HQ here! What's with the urgent call?"

"Is there King Max there?"

"Um... I think so."

"Could you go get him for me?"

"Sure. Hang on."

Rotor puts down the headset and runs outside. He sees King Max standing there talking with Sonic.

"Your majesty! Geoffrey is on the radio and wishes to speak with you!"

"On my way. Pardon me Sonic."

King Max walks into the command center and puts on the headset.

"King Max here. What is it Geoffrey?"

"You majesty, I wanted to let you know that we were successful in our mission in rescuing the queen and prince."

"Most excellent Geoffrey! I will meet with you all at the base."

"No can do King Maximillian."

"Why?"

"Though we have managed to rescue the royal Acorn family, we were brought to Angel Island."

"Angel Island?! How?"

"We had the unfortunate luck to run into Dimitri during our mission. As of this moment, he is currently wreaking havoc."

"What of Shadow?"

"He was fighting Dimitri but from the looks of things, it seems as if Shadow has failed to stop him."

"I see. Well, stay where you are then. I will come immediately."

"No. It's too dangerous. We'll come to you instead."

"Very well then."

Shifting back to Angel Island, Geoffrey turns off the radio and puts it back into his belt.

"Hey Mighty! Don't you have a warp ring with you?"

"Always."

Mighty pulls out a warp ring and hands it to Geoffrey. Geoffrey then throws the ring and waited until it expanded in order for the portal to appear.

"Alright it's up. Let's get moving."

Geoffrey and the Secret Service agents walk through the portal with both the queen and prince following them. Seconds later, they all reappeared at Freedom HQ.

"Wife! Son!"

King Maximillian ran over to his wife and son and hugged them while in tears.

"Oh husband! I am so happy to see you once again!"

"Likewise Alicia! And you my son! Elias, it is good to have you back!"

"Yes father! I have waited for this moment for a long time."

"As have I."

As the three continue to hug one another and cry, Sally walks in.

"What's with all the commotion?"

King Max removed his hug and allowed Queen Alicia to approach her daughter.

"Hello Sally. Do you recognize me?"

"Mother?!"

"Yes Sally."

Bursting in tears, Sally hugs her mother.

"Oh mother! It has been too long."

"Yes my dear. Indeed it has been."

Queen Alicia streaks Sally's hair with her fingers and wipes off her tears.

"My Sally. Look at how much you have grown. You are so beautiful and elegant."

Sally looks at her mother and smiles. She then looks over her mother's shoulders and saw Elias standing there.

"Who's that?"

King Max walks behind Elias and puts his hands on his son's shoulders.

"Sally, allow me to introduce to you your brother, prince Elias."

Sally curiously walks over.

"I never knew I had a brother."

"And he never knew he had a sister."

King Max lets go of Elias' shoulders. Sally walks a little closer. Then, without warning, Sally gives him a hug.

"Welcome home brother."

"Thank you sister."

The two release their hugs and both give out a small laughters of joy. Sally then looks to the right side and finds Geoffrey standing there smiling at the family reunion. Sally runs over to him, hugs him, and gives him a kiss on the cheek.

"Oh, thank you so much Geoffrey! Than you for bringing back my missing mother and brother."

"Actually Sally, it was Shadow who brought us on this mission. He should be given all the credit."

Sally lets go of Geoffrey.

"Where's Shadow then?"

"On Angel Island. He's fighting Dimitri but we don't if he made out okay."

"Wha-, What do you mean?"

"Well, you see, when we arrived on Angel Island, Dimitri gained enormous power from the Master Emerald and transformed into the being he called Enerjak."

"Oh my gosh! We have to go back!"

"No Sally. We can't. We have already lost two agents to that monster. Shadow would not want anyone else to die."

Realizing that to be true, Sally looks up at the ceiling and puts her hands together.

"Shadow, please come back to us safely."

Now back on Angel Island inside of the Master Emerald chamber, Shadow is seen getting up. At this point, both Locke and Knuckles have just arrived.

"Shadow!"

"Knuckles."

"What happened?"

[While walking to the front of the Master Emerald and stopping]"Enerjak, that's what."

"Well, you don't have to worry about him. My father and I will deal with him."

"Not going to happen Knuckles."

"Shadow, Enerjak is one of the strongest beings ever to walk on Mobius, aside from Chaos of course. It makes sense for those who know his weaknesses to fight him."

"Hmph! Save your speech for someone who cares. This fight is personal. Dimitri forced me to unleash Chaos and because of that, all of Echidnaopolis was nearly destroyed. It's time to repay him in kind."

"But how do you plan on fighting him?"

Shadow looked back at the Master Emerald and grinned.

"By giving him a taste of his own medicine."

[UltimateLifeForm]

Author's Note: Just wanted to let you guys know that any chapters that deal with major battles or events, or anything else special that happens within the story will now be written seperately from this post. They will be known as Story Specials. The reason why I'm doing this is so that Shadow Gaiden can be carried on smoothly and more quickly as the story progresses. Don't worry, even though these special chapters will be written seperately, all of you will still be able to understand and follow the main story as they are written and posted here. I hope to start writing the first few special chapters somewhere around next week.

Chapter 15: One After Another

"You can't be serious Shadow. You don't really plan on using the Master Emerald do you?" asked Knuckles.

"Yes I do. It's the only way."

"But you have never used it before. Perhaps it would be best to get the seven Chaos Emeralds."

"We don't have time to get the emeralds. Enerjak needs to be stopped now."

"What of Chaos?"

"What about him?"

"Well, aren't you worried by the fact that if you take in some if the Master Emerald's power that you might accidently wake Chaos?"

"I'll take my chances."

"But I'm not. It's far too risky. If Chaos does manage to be revived, we'll have a worldwide crisis in our hands."

"Then you had better hope you have developed some type of contingency plan when the crisis does strike."

"Argh! Shadow! You are going to get us killed!"

"Knuckles my son! Please calm down. There is no need for anger. Let Shadow do what he needs to."

"WHAT? But father-"

"Knuckles, you must understand that it is times like these that one must do what is necessary in order to put down a great evil. Besides, I trust Shadow's judgement. I believe he will have not propose to do what he plans on doing if he knew of the possible risks."

[Sighs]"Fine."

Shadow looks back at the Master Emerald for a few seconds. Shadow then jumps on top of the giant gem.

"Master Emerald, lend me some of your power so that I may take down the so called demi-god, Enerjak!"

The Master Emerald began to glow a bright green. Then, Shadow's body too glowed of the same hue. Soon, Shadow's body color changed to a golden yellow as his fists began to shake. After taking in a significant amount of power, Shadow brought his fists up towards his face as he crossed them. Then, with a yell, Shadow brought down his fists for the transformation was finally complete. Our hero now glowed of a bright gold-white with a large white aura surrounding him.

"Enerjak was right. This is quite some power I've got surging through me."

"Amazing! Really wishin that would be me right now" said Knuckles.

"I don't know about you guys, but I think Enerjak have finally met his match. Time to go teach that fool a lesson."

Still standing on top of the Master Emerald, Shadow teleported out of the chamber and reappeared outside. Shadow scans the skies and soon spots Enerjak.

"ENERJAK!"

The demi-god hears Shadow's yell and turned to face the hedgehog.

"What's this? It seems you have also manage to tap into the Master Emerald's power."

"Not as much as you have, but I'm still stronger."

"Hahaha! Foolish hedgehog! How do you hope to win if you don't have as much as power as I?"

"I'll find a way. I always do."

"You mean find a way to die. Hmph! Come then Shadow. Let us see how powerful you have truly gotten."

Enerjak raises both of his arms as Chaos energy surrounded his hands. Shadow did not move.

"Well, are you going to-"

Moving at hypersonic speed, Shadow lands a deadly punch across Enerjak's face. The demi-god flew back completely surprised at what just happened. Regaining his senses, Enerjak stops his flight by bringing his body back upright.

"It seems you have acquired more speed from your new powers. However, just because you're faster does not mean that you-"

Shadow again successfully lands another punch.

"That's it! Time to die hedgehog!"

Enerjak unleashed an energy beam. As the beam approached closer to Shadow, the hedgehog simply sneered and smacked the beam aside.

"What? He- He just deflected my attack as if it was nothing" thought Enerjak.

Still believing he could win, Enerjak unleashed yet another beam but this time, he had put more power into it. But the same results yielded for this attack as it did for the last.

"How is this even possible? How are you deflecting my attacks so easily?"

"You're not trying hard enough, that's how."

"Oh, so you wish to fight me at my full potential do you? Fine, but it shall be your death wish."

Enerjak closes his eyes. Soon his body would be wrapped around in a green aura. As Shadow continued to watch, the green aura grew thicker and thicker. Enerjak then opened his eyes and the aura was blown away.

"Is that it?"

"Don't worry. You will feel the excrutiating pain delivered at my full strength soon. Chaos Control!"

Enerjak teleported from the skies but did not reappear soon thereafter. Shadow looked on and scanned the horizon but did not see Enerjak anywhere. He then looked up but no demi-god there either. Shadow looked back across the skies.

"Could he have teleported out into space?"

Wondering that, Shadow teleported out into the cosmos but once again, Enerjak was nowhere to be seen. Shadow continued to search on until something out in the distance of space caught his eye. From what could be seen, the strange object was green in color and approaching fast.

"About time."

As Shadow got into his stance, he notices that the oncoming object was nothing more than a projectile. Realizing this, Shadow shields himself with his arms. With Shadow now completely focused on the projectile, Enerjak appeared behind Shadow and struck him from behind with a charged up Chaos attack.

"What the crap?"

Shadow turned around in a state of anger. Seeing Enerjak there, Shadow tried to use a Chaos attack of his own.

"Fool. You're letting your guard down."

Knowing what Enerjak meant, Shdow quickly turned around and tried to shield himself again from the projectile but it was too late. Shadow got hit and was knocked back past Enerjak. As Shadow neared Mobius' atmosphere, the object exploded but Shadow shakes it off.

"How sad. For one so fast, you're reaction time is quite slow."

"What the heck did you launch at me?"

"It was one of those human's pitiful satellites. All I did was tranfer Chaos energy into it to turn it into a giant bomb."

"So is that your new technique? Turn non-animated objects into rocketing bombs? Not very impressive. I thought you were going to show me strong you have gotten, not give me a light show."

"But I have gotten stronger. You felt the power for yourself when you were struck by one of my attacks earlier."

"That was nothing. In fact, if it was any weaker, I probably would have neglected it."

"ARGH! You're ignorance is beginning to frustrate me hedgehog. You want true power... I'll give you true power!"

Enerjak levitated higher and higher into space as Shadow watches in curiosity. Once the demi-god reached the height he wished to achieve, he threw both of his arms up. After doing so, the Chaos energy thriving within Enerjak began to come together as a small ball of energy that appeared on top of his hands. Then, with the remaining power he had, he brought it all into the energy ball in order to make it grow larger and larger until it has finally reached the desired size.

"Now, let's see if you are willing to neglect this Shadow!"

While laughing maniacally, Enerjak threw the energy ball straight at Shadow who floated in place, not showing any desire to fly out of the way. After the energy ball had landed a direct hit, an explosion occured, the largest one ever seen. Enerjak looked on with glee for he truly believed that Shadow was dead. However, as the smoke cleared, Enerjak's smile quickly went away at what he saw. Shadow the hedgehog still floats in one piece.

"My turn."

Shadow raises his right arm and snapped his fingers. Upon doing so, hundreds of golden spears appeared behind him. Enerjak began to sweat.

"I... I never would have imagined your Chaos powers being amplified so much. It seems as though you and Chaos have become one."

"Chaos and I will never be one. I've just had the fortune of acquiring his Chaos abilities. Now, any last words Enerjak?"

"Despite your victory this day, I shall be reborn more powerful than ever before. It will be then that you will come to fear me."

"Whatever. Chaos Maelstrom!"

Thrusting his right arm forward, the hundreds of Chaos Spears were all instanteously shot at Enerjak. The spears came upon Enerjak like a giant tidal wave, hitting him without pause. With the attack proving too much for the demi-god to bear, he teleported back onto Angel Island with Shadow appearing seconds later. With no strength left to fight, Enerjak remained on his knees. His body then glowed bright green. As the glow dissapated, the attire of the demi-god was gone, leaving an unconscious Dimitri lying on the ground. Shadow's body too glowed, bringing back his original colors.

Shifting the scene to the Master Emerald chamber, both Knuckles and Locke await patiently for Shadow's return. Soon enough, the hedgehog appeared with Dimitri hung over his right shoulder.

"Shadow! You did it!" said Knuckles happily.

"Of course I did. Don't tell me you've been doubting this whole time?"

"Me? Doubt you? Never! I knew you would win from the beginning."

"Yeah right. Here! Think this belongs to you guys."

Shadow threw Dimitri over to Knuckles who manages to catch him with his arms.

"You sure did a number on him."

"He had it coming. Now if you'll excuse me, I gotta head back to Knothole."

"Thanks again Shadow."

As Shadow continues to walk outside of the chamber and his back turned, he gives the two-finger salute.

Back in Knothole inside of Freedom HQ, the Freedom Fighters and the Secret Service have all gathered around a vid-screen. Shdow enters the command center where they all stand.

"Shadow! You're back!" said Sally as she ran up to her man and hugged him.

"Hey Sally."

"Wow! Look at you! You got in a fight with Enerjak yet there seems to be no signs of injury on you. How did you manage that?"

"I heal fast."

"I had a feeling you would say something like that. Anyways Shadow, your return couldn't of been better. Robotnik had just begun to announce his master plan."

"Really? This shoud be interesting."

Shadow walks over to the center of the command center where the vid-screen stays suspended. Soon enough, a video came on.

"Hello citizens of Mobius. It is I, Robotnik. Today, I have a very important announcement to make. However, I would just like to point out that this message will be directed to the royal family of Acorn. As you all know, I have given you misfits several days of grace. But as of now, things will change forever. Behind me, you all will notice a rather large device. What is you may ask? It's none other than my greatest invention, the Ultimate Annilhilator! With this device, I am able to destroy all of Mobius with a single push of a button. But you fools may be happy to know that I will not use this device as long as my demand is met. All I ask is that the royal Acorn family turn themselves in to me by today. If not, then all of you can say good-bye to your world, and your lives. Hahahahahaha! Better hurry, time is running short."

The screen goes black.

"Oh my gosh! So that was what Robotnik have been working on this whole time?"

"That madman! He must be stopped at all costs!" said Geoffrey as he shook his fist.

"But if launch an offensive, he's going to set that thing off" said Sonic.

"But we can't just stand here!"

"Then there is no other choice" said King Max. "We must turn ourselves in."

"What? King Max no don't. If you do, then you and your whole family will get roboticized, or worse!" said Sonic.

"There is no other way. If we don't, then all of Mobius is history."

"Not while I'm around" said Shadow. "Allow me to take the fight to him."

"But Shadow, you just got done fighting a demi-god! It's too soon for you to go back out there."

"Doesn't matter Sally. As Geoffrey said, Robotnik must be stopped."

"But your approach will only provoke him. Our surrender is the only sure way."

"You don't know that. For all we know, He'll just use the Ultimate Annihilator regardless whether or not we meet his demands. After all, he has been planning this for awhile."

"Shadow's right Sal. It's not worth it. It would be for the best if your family stayed here."

"But-"

"Aunt Sally! Please don't go!" yelled a crying Tails.

Sally walks over to Tails and crouches down.

"Aunt Sally, please don't go! If it'll change your mind, I wanted to say I'm sorry for talking back to you on that one day."

"Oh Tails" said Sally as she hugged him. "It's alright. I want to say sorry to you as well for yelling at you like that."

"So does that mean you won't go?"

"Tails-"

"Please Aunt Sal."

"Alright. For you Tails."

"It's settled then" said Shadow. "Sonic! Let's go and pay Robotnik a visit."

"Sounds good to me. I've always wanted to pay Robuttnik back for roboticizing me."

Sally stands back up and faces Shadow.

"Shadow, are you sure you want to go through with this? All for me?"

"Of course Sally. I will do whatever it takes to protect you and your family."

"I love you Shadow."

"Love you too Sally."

The two embrace and kiss one another. After several seconds, they let each other go. Shadow then skates out off Freedom HQ with Sonic close behind. The ultimate battle with Robotnik is about to begin.

[UltimateLifeForm]

Author's Note: Yes, I realize that I skipped out on the final battle with Robotnik. Since that is a major battle, that will be written as a special chapter. And if you guys have been keeping up, these special chapters will written seperatly from this post. Somtime later in the week I will make a make a new topic that will have these Story Specials, starting with the final battle.

Chapter 16: Rude Reawakening

One year have passed since Robotnik's defeat. Even though the madman's reign of tyranny have finally ended, it goes without saying that there has been some downsides for the Freedom Fighters. First off, Shadow has permanently left the Freedom Fighters to join G.U.N. to learn more of his hidden past, a past he never knew that actually happened. Sally too have left the Freedom Fighters, but only temporarely, for she went on a mission to find Monkey Khan, a fellow Mobian that had once been a subject to Robotnik's cybernetic experiments but now locked away. While Sally was away on her journey, a new threat arised, one by the name of Robo-Robotnik. Fortunately, the Freedom Fighters have managed to make quick work of this new Robotnik within several months. However, all is not better. Despite the fact that Robo-Robotnik have been defeated, he takes on a new body and now calls himself Eggman, the most notorious genius that the Freedom Fighters have ever faced.

The setting will now take place within G.U.N. headquarters where Shadow is seen standing in the command center along with Hope who is currently sitting by a computer console. Commander Tower walks in.

"Morning Shadow, Hope."

"Morning Commander!" said Hope happily.

Shadow says nothing.

"Shadow, I have a new mission for you."

"What is it?"

"I have been getting reports from Prison Island that Eggman have been attacking our base there."

"For what reason?"

"We're not sure yet. We believe that there is something within Prison Island that Eggman wishes to have."

"Well, it must be something important if he's willing to attack that place."

"And that's why you are needed there. Go and see what Eggman is up to."

"No problem. Chaos Control!"

The scene is now shifted to Prison Island, where Shadow has just arrived at the front gate of the base.

"Looks like Eggman hasn't been able to break through yet."

Shadow hears a loud boom in the distance.

"What was that?"

Shadow skated off into the jungle to the location of the noise that he had heard. Upon reaching the destination, he sees a robot squadron shooting at trees.

"Chaos Spear!"

Shadow launches several energy spears at the robots, destroying every one.

"Those robots must of had a malfunction. Shooting at trees? Some genius Eggman must be to create those heaps of junk."

As Shadow walks back to the base, he sees a metal blimp, armed with cannons, fly overhead.

"Hohoho! You GUN agents have been getting off easy with those small ambushes. But now, you all shall be overwhelmed by this new offensive."

"Looks like Eggman is sending in the cavalry."

As the blimp flew closer to the base, it opened fire but upon doing so, the defensive weapons on Prison Island began to fire back at the blimp.

"I'll let those anti-aircraft cannons deal with Eggman. Time to head inside and see what is so important."

Shadow once again used Chaos Control and appeared inside of the base. Nothing but GUN battle mechs are seen everywhere. A GUN captian approached Shadow and saluted him.

"Welcome Shadow! We were told of your arrival."

"Do you have any updates?"

"No. The reasons are still unknown as to why Eggman is attacking us."

"My guess is that there is probably a prisoner here that Eggman wishes to free. But the question is who is it? Bring me to the main computer. There are some data files that I need to check."

"Of course. Right this way."

The GUN captain gestured at Shadow to follow him. After minutes of walking through the base, the two arrived at the command center. The captain turned on the computer and inputted a password. Moments later, a list of prisoners popped up on the screen.

"Scroll down."

The captain scrolled down the list until something caught Shadow's eye, telling him to stop. Shadow walked closer to the screen.

"That's an odd metal crate. What's in it?"

"We don't know. It was sent to us by an anonymous figure. We were told not to open it."

"Where is it now?"

"It's still here on the base."

"Bring me to it."

The two exit the center and minutes later, the two find themselves staring at a gate. The captain walked over to a nearby console and after inputting in yet another password, the gate opened, revealing a room covered in lasers.

"All this security just for a crate?"

"Well, after we were told not to open it, we were also given the order to keep it secured for the creature inside was deemed dangerous."

"Dangerous huh? This may be the prisoner that Eggman must be after."

"How do you know for sure?"

"Because Eggman wouldn't want to waste his time with the other prisoners that are being kept in simple cells."

"Actually, we have another Mobian being kept in custody here."

"What's his name?"

"It's not known at this time but he is currently being held in a stasis pod."

"Has he been all this time?"

"Yes."

"Take me to him."

The GUN captain came back to the console and closed the gate. Afterwards, the captain told Shadow to follow him as they make their way to another part of the base. Outside, we see Sally appoaching a console.

"Looks like we have managed to evade Eggman's robots for the time being. Okay NICOLE, work your magic."

Sally brings NICOLE up to the console as she begins to scan the console network.

"Hacking the network Sally. Searching for the password... Inputting the password."

The gate located near the console opened.

"Good work NICOLE!"

Sally runs in and find herself at the upper level of the GUN base.

"Wow! This base seemed so small on the outside."

"Sorry to break your sightseeing Sally but I do believe you have a mission to accomplish."

"Of course. How could I forget?"

Sally jumped down to the lower level.

"Bring up the schematics of the base."

NICOLE brought up a holographic blueprint.

"From what I can tell, there's a room on this level that is secured with lasers. That's probably where they are keeping Monkey Khan."

"One problem Sally. Because of Eggman's attack, all GUN battle mechs are stationed throughout the base."

"That won't be a problem. They know who I am."

Sally stands up and walks up to a GUN mech, armed with a rifle.

"Hello. My name is Sally Acorn and I am here to-"

Before Sally could finish, a large explosion took place inside of the base.

"Attention all battle mechs! Report to Sector 7 immediately! I repeat, report to Sector 7 immediately A large robot of Eggman's design have entered the base and must be stopped."

All of the GUN robots that were seen posted at their station all began to head towards to the location they were commanded to go to.

"One of Eggman's robots? Wonder how he managed to bring one in here?"

"Excuse me miss but it's not safe for you here. It would be best if you to head to the safety of the command room."

"Thank you for your concern but I can take care of myself. Right now I am in the middle of an important mission and must complete it. Perhaps you can help."

"How so miss?"

"I'm on a search for a Mobian by the name of Monkey Khan. I was told that he is being held here."

"I'm sorry miss but that name is not familar to me. You may want to check our main computer and search through the data files. We have a list of all the prisoners being kept here."

"Where's that at?"

"In the command center."

"Oh, how convient. Looks like I'll be heading there after all. Thank you for your help!"

"No problem."

Sally runs off into the center of the base where the computer was located. Meanwhile, Shadow and the GUN captain step onto a large elevator platform and began decending to the underground level of the base.

"So do you have any idea who they got inside of the pod?"

"From past reports that I have read, I can only imagine it being one of Gerald's experiments."

"An experiment?"

"That's right. It was a sort of prototype created by the doctor."

"How did it end up stasised?"

"Well, the full story is not clear but witnessses stated that the creature woke from its test tube and killed off most of the scientists aboard the ARK. A special GUN unit was sent in to put down the creature but our officials wanted it to be preserved instead of killed. That's how it was managed to be put into stasis."

"Hmph! That story seems a little cliche."

"That's the only one I can give you."

The elevator platform stops and the two make their way to a gate. The GUN captain puts his hand on the console and the gate opened. They walked inside and soon Shadow found himself staring at a large pod.

"This pod have been here for over 50 years and not once has it been opened."

"Really? How long do you guys intend to keep it here?"

"Until we are given the order to dispose of it."

As the two continue to look on, a radio transmission comes in through the GUN captain's headset.

"This is the captain here! What is the situation up there?"

"Not good sir. An Eggman robot have entered the base and is destroying all of our battle mechs."

"What? How did it get past our defenses?"

"We are not sure sir."

"Alright. Keep me posted. Did you get that Shadow? An Eggman robot that have managed to infiltrate the base."

"No need to say more captain. I'll take care of it."

"Good. Go on without me then. I need to stay here and tighten the security for this level. Just in case."

"I was going to leave you here regardless captain. Priorties first."

"Good luck Shadow."

Shadow used Chaos Control and teleported back to the main level of the GUN base. In the distance, Shadow sees smoke in all directions. As Shadow skated to the battle site, he spots the robot attacking and destroying GUN mechs.

"I am E-123 Omega. I am the ultimate robot created by Eggman. Those who stand in my way of my assignment will be destroyed."

"Now this robot looks like it'll be worth my time."

The scene shifts to the command center where Sally is seen standing next to the main computer. A technician walks by.

"Excuse me but can you bring up the data files on the prisoners for me?"

"Sorry ma'am but only the captain can access those files."

"Do you know where he is?"

"No."

"I see. Thank you for your time anyways."

As the technician walks away, Sally grabs NICOLE from her boot.

"You know what to do NICOLE."

"Sally, I don't think this is a good idea."

"Why not?"

"Hacking into GUN's computer mainframe? They won't take it lightly."

"I'll explain it to them later. Besides, it is imperative that we successfully fulfill our mission."

"Okay Sally. Just don't blame me is you get caught."

"I won't now hurry NICOLE!"

NICOLE scanned the main computer's mainframe and began the search for the data files. The search went on for a few minutes.

"Hang on Sally. I almost have downloaded all of the files."

A few more minutes passed.

"Download complete. All files have been successfully transfered over."

"Great work."

Without anyone looking, Sally walked out of the command center.

"Okay NICOLE. Bring up the files for me."

A holographic projection appeared showing the list of prisoners.

"Hmm... according to this list, Monkey Khan isn't on here nor is he mentioned."

"Perhaps he still locked away."

"Hmm... maybe you're right. I have to keep looking."

As Sally continued to look through the list, she sees a picture of a metal crate.

"Wait a minute! The crate in this picture... It looks exactly like the one you described NICOLE."

"And the only one capable of containing Monkey Khan."

"Let's see... it seems the crate is locked in a secure room on this level. Gate A-37. Where is that on this level?"

"You'll be happy to know that while running through the blueprints of this base, I marked all of the rooms that I knew that had the capability to hold Monkey Khan. Gate A-37 is the room blocked off by lasers, the very same room that we have been told that held Monkey Khan."

"Could this day get any better? So far everything is where I need them to be. Alright NICOLE, lead the way."

Unfortunetly Sally, things will get only worse. Back at the underground level, the GUN captain is putting in codes into the console, activating the automated weapons placed inside the room.

"There. No way any of Eggman's robots can pass through this."

As the GUN captain walks away and prepares to close the gate, something unusual happened. The glass on the pod began to crack.

"What the-"

As the GUN captain turned around, the crack in the glass began to quickly spread all over the pod. Soon a pair of crimson eyes were seen inside.

"Oh no. The creature! It's waking up!"

The captain ran back to the console and placed his hands on it. The gate started to close. However, the gate did not close fast enough. The glass broke entirely from the pod. While still inside, the creature slowly lifted its right arm. Then swiftly forming a fist, the interior and exterior of the room spontanously combusted with the captain caught in the explosion. The creature stepped out of the pod.

"Finally. After fifty years of slumber, I have reawakened with greater power. Time to place judgement on these lowly humans."

[Scourgekito the hedgehog]

Hi,I'm back...but that's okay with me if you skipped I didn't get to read that one either..so you didn't spoil it for me.But I have my forum done...you might get a PM from me about it however I think your special scene thing might actually work.(I was never good at fight scenes anyway)But I had never heard of separating them from a story.It's good as always by the way.Once more I apologize for not being on as much as I'd like to so I'm trying to post as much in One post as I am allowed to so I can say what I need to in the short time I'm allowed on.

[jay the Echina]

well it is good so far

[UltimateLifeForm]

jay the Echina, on Jun 5 2009, 12:44 PM, said:

well it is good so far

And I hope it continues to stay good. Thanks again for the comment.

[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 17: Enemy To Enemy

Back out on the surface of the GUN base, Shadow is seen currently fighting Omega without the knowledge of the creature's reawakening below him.

"I must admit Omega, you are one strong opponent, despite the fact that you're nothing but a machine."

"Correction hedgehog. I am the ultimate E-series robot. None shall be able to stop me from accomplishing my task."

"And what would that be?"

"I am not inclined to dicuss classified information to my foes."

"I see. Well, it wouldn't have mattered anyway. You're about to be no more than scrap metal after I'm through with you."

Shadow skates towards Omega at neckbreaking speed. The robot, however, was quick to react and with a quick transformation from his hands to chain guns stored inside his large metallic arms, began to fire a rain of bullets at the hedgehog. Shadow manages to dodge the oncoming barrage and with a single homing attack, he knocks Omega a few feet back. The oversized macine stands back up without a dent in sight.

"Seems Eggman have made you durable than most other robots in the past. He must have took his time creating you."

Omega's chain guns quickly receded into his arms. In replacement, a set of missile launchers appeared.

"Indeed my master has."

Without hesitation, Omega immediately opened fire on Shadow, sending in waves of missiles.

"Two can play this game. Chaos Spear!"

Like Omega, Shadow too launched projectiles of his own, this time, in the form of golden energy spears, at the approaching missiles. Upon making contact, a large explosion took place that covered the surrounding area. When the dust cloud cleared, Shadow and Omega are seen to still be standing in perfect condition.

"Impressive Omega. I can't believe I"ll be saying this but, all in all, you are by far the most well-created robot Eggman has thought of. I applaud him for your creation. I never have found myself in a fight aganist this long aganist an E-series. But like all machines, if struck with enough force, you'll break apart. And so, for the first time in fighting a robot, I'll have to unleash my full powers in order to destroy you."

As Shadow proceeds to remove the inhibitor rings, an explosion was heard and seen distances away behind him.

"What? Another explosion? Has Eggman breached yet another sector?"

Shadow looked on at the rising smoke as he overheard the intercom announcement.

"Attention all personnel! Attention all personnel! Report to Sector 9 immediately! A Mobian is attacking the base!"

"A Mobian?!"

Shadow turns to face Omega.

"Looks like you got lucky Omega. As much as I would like to finish our fight, this matter is more important. Don't worry, once I'm finished, I'll return to finish you off."

Shadow skated off to Sector 9 to engage the mysterious Mobian with Omega looking on. Elsewhere on the base, Sally herself hears the announcement and gasps in shock.

"A Mobian?! Could it be-"

"No Sally. It is not Monkey Khan. According to my analysis, he is still being held."

"Then who? Oh well, we'll find out later."

Sally continues to walk and after several seconds, she finds herself staring at Gate A-37.

"Well, here it is. And it's huge! You're certain that Monkey Khan is here?"

"Yes Sally. I have ran multiple scans and indeed Monkey Khan is held beyond that gate."

"All right then."

Sally walks over the console.

"Okay NICOLE, you know what to do."

"Already on it Sally. Please hold for a few minutes while I hack into the security system."

As NICOLE searches for the proper codes, Sally looks around to make sure that no one was watching. When Sally looked back to NICOLE, the series of codes on the console were inputted and the gate slowly opened.

"Good work!"

Sally looked on as the gate gradually ascended. However, once the gate had fully opened, Sally hears the cocking of guns. She turns around to spot two GUN soldiers aiming at her with M-16's.

"It's okay you two. I'm an ally of the United Federation. I am here only to free the Mobian being held inside that crate."

"We are sorry miss, but we have been given strict orders to not allow anyone, no matter what they're status, near or open that crate. Please step away slowly."

"But you two must understand. The Mobian inside that crate is a friend. I must free him!"

"One last warning miss. Step away slowly or we will use force."

"No. This isn't right."

Sally slowly walks backwards with her right hand to her chest and her eyes fixated on the two human soldiers. The two soldiers stood up and began to walk towards Sally with their weapons still pointed at her. As they came nearer, an unusual event took place. The metal crate started to shake violently as if Monkey Khan was trying to break free. And indeed he was. After several shakes, Monkey Khan broke free of his imprisonment and was seen quickly running towards the soldiers. In desperation, the soldiers tried to shoot Monkey Khan to kill him but the Mobian was too agile. With one leap, Monkey Khan manages to grab on to one of the soldier's vest at the shoulders, flip around to the backside, and tosses the full grown man. The other soldier ran up to Khan and tried to hit him with the rifle's butt but Khan used his tail to grab the rifle and yanked it out of the soldier's hands. Then, with both hands, Khan breaks the rifle in two. Now in fear, the soldier tried to run away but Khan grabs him and tosses him.

"Oh my gosh!" exclaimed Sally.

"I apologize for you having to see that sort of behavior. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is-"

"It's Monkey Khan I know. I came here searching for you in order to save you. As it turned out, you saved me."

"Ironic isn't it?"

"I do have a question though. How did you mange to break out of that crate? It was specifically desgined to hold you in."

"I sense that you were in danger. And with the thought in my mind that a fellow Mobian was in danger, I had no choice but to break free to lend a hand. And after looking at you, I see that it was fate that had me here. I cannot bear in mind the thought of someone as beautiful as yourself get hurt by those heartless fools."

"I see. Well, I truly am impressed and deeply grateful for your concern but there seems to be another matter that needs more attention than me."

"Is that so?"

"Yes. You see, there is another Mobian here on this base that is destroying everything and everyone. We must go and stop whoever it is from causing more destruction."

"A Mobian? Well, after seeing how those two humans were about to kill you, I'd say thay have what's coming to them."

"No Khan. You don't understand. Those two were only performing their duties. They had no other choice. So you must see that not all of them are not like that."

[Sighs]"Very well. As you wish."

Giving off a whistle, a magical cloud appeared before Khan. Then, with his left hand, he extends it towards the broken crate, only to have a magical bo staff come to him. With his right, he held Sally on his arm.

"Hold on tight. Here we go."

With those words said, the cloud took off at a speed that Sally knows all too well. Shifting to Sector 9, Shadow looks on at the piles of destroyed GUN mechs along with dead soldiers scattered throughout the area. Now with rage in his eyes, Shadow continues to walk further until he was stopped by an unfamiliar sight. Out from the smoke, a hedgehog walks towards Shadow with a grin on his face.

"You! You did this! Who are you?"

"The one to place judgement on this world."

"That's not what I meant."

"Why would my name being of any import?"

"Because I would like to know the name of the very fool I'm going to kill."

"You kill me? Not likely."

"Your name!"

"The name is Stark."

"Stark huh? Never even heard of you. Like I would even care anyways. Why are you doing this?"

"For reasons I only need to know."

Stark extends both of his arms out in front of him. Moments later, Shadow saw the smoke from close by being taken into Stark's hands. After all of the smoke was gone, the rings on Stark's wrists glowed a gray color.

"What did you do?"

"I absorbed the smoke. That's my power. I am able to absorb the elements and use them at my will. I'm surprised that after fifty years of sleep that I'm still able to control them such ease."

"Fifty years sleep? So you must be the creature that was kept inside of that pod."

"Not kept. Imprisoned. Those fools back then had no idea the mistake that they committed. Because of them, this world will now suffer at my hands."

"Not as long as I"m around. After I'm done with you, you'll be in a permanent sleep."

Shadow skates towards Stark with his hands covered in Chaos energy. Much to Shadow's shock, however, he began to slow down as he came closer to Stark. Soon enough, Shadow reached the point where he could no longer skate on the air.

"What the heck is going on? I can't go any faster."

"One thing I should of mentioned is that once I control a certain element, I can control their unique properties. In your case, I created a gale force strong enough that your speed could not break through and because of that, you could no longer skate at any desired speed."

"Guess that also means you won't be able to get to me either."

"You obviously know nothing. Since I control the wind, I am able to manipulate it in any way I see fit. A perfect example would be taking the gale force and reverse its initial effects to give me speed that not even you can hope to achieve."

Taking the gale force and absorbing it back into his hand, the energy tubes connected from the wrist rings to the ankle rings began the process of energy tranfer to his air shoes. Then, with an instant sonic boom, Stark dashed towards Shadow and lands a punch on his chest, knocking Shadow back several hundred feet. Shadow stands back up while coughing out blood. As Shadow wipes off the blood from his mouth, Stark stops in front of him, hovering in the air.

"You see? You can't hope to beat me. Now, even though I would love to kill you off, there are quite a few things I must settle first. After all, sleeping for fifty years means that I still have a lot to catch up on."

After those words, Stark boosted upwards and broke through the base's ceiling, leaving Shadow to stand there holding his chest in pain. Not far from where he stands, Khan and Sally are seen approaching Sector 9.

"Look! I see a Mobian there! That must be him."

Sally looks at the figure and just figured it out to be Shadow.

"Wait Khan! That's not-"

"Time to get down beautiful."

Before Sally could finish, Khan gently puts Sally back on the ground.

"No worries. I'll be back before you know it."

"You're making a mis-"

But Sally's plea did not make it to Khan's ears as he already dashed off towards Shadow. As our hero tried to ease his pain, he was struck from behind by the magical bo staff wielded by Khan. Mustering his strength, Shadow flipped around and manages to skid across the ground with his feet.

"Who do you think you are?"

"The name's Monkey Khan. And I'm here to end you."

[Scourgekito the hedgehog]

whoa! major cliff hanger!But excellent nonetheless.

[UltimateLifeForm]

Glad to know that it's still excellent. Seems I haven't lost my touch.

Chapter 18: One's Fractured Heart, Another's Iron Will

"Monkey Khan?"

"That's right. I'm sure you heard of me."

"The only thing I'm sure of is that you're going to suffer for attacking me."

"Wrong. You'll be the one that'll suffer. Look around you. Look at the destruction that you have caused."

"Me? Sorry to tell you this but the one who did all this just left."

"Putting the blame on others huh? It's just like you and your villainous kind to do something so low."

"That's it! I'm wasting words on you! If you won't listen to sense, then I guess I'll have to knock some into you."

"If you have the strength."

"I got more than enough."

Shadow proceeds to remove his inhibitors but was unfortunetely stopped from doing so by Khan when the hedgehog was struck by the monkey's bo staff at the chest. Shadow tries to fight back but his previous bout with Stark left him weakened. Sensing that Shadow was not able to fight back, Khan struck again, this time sweeping Shadow off his feet. Shadow flipped back up but could not counter attack for Khan chained in a three hit combo.
The first hit struck his right arm, the second his left, then finally, the third hit was a blow to the face. As Shadow quickly got back on his feet, his vision became a little blurred. He closes his eyes.

"Had enough yet villian?"

Shadow does not respond. Instead, Shadow moves his right arm and swings it in front of his chest. Little did Khan know that Shadow was preparing for an attack.

"Chaos Spear!"

An energy spear was launched quickly at Khan who gave a look of surprise. But because Shadow's vision was still a little blurred, his aim was off and Khan manages to dodge the oncoming projectile.

"You almost had me there! I didn't think that someone in such a fragile state could actually bring up an attack such as that one."

"Shut up talking and resume the fight!"

"Eager to die? Fine then! I shall deliver the finishing blow."

Khan begins a series of spin manoeuvres with his bo staff. He ends the series with one of the staff's end pointing at Shadow.

"Say good-bye to your life of villainy!"

Khan leaps up as he brings the staff behind him. Shadow, who now is on his right knee, brings up his arms in preparation of the attack. As Khan drew closer, he begins to swing the staff in front of him. Just when it seemed that Shadow would get hit, Sally suddenly appeared in front of him with her arms spreaded out.

"STOP!"

Khan immediately ceased his attack with the bo staff nearly touching Sally's head.

"Why did you stop me?"

"Because you're fighting the wrong Mobian."

Sally turns around and gets on her knees. She puts her hands on Shadow's face.

"Hey Shadow."

"Sally, what are you doing here?"

"Ask questions later. You need medical attention!"

"I'm fine. The only thing that's hurt is my reputation."

"I see even after all this time you still refuse aid from others."

Sally grabs Shadow's shoulders and helps him to stand.

"Now, answer my question. What are you doing here?"

"I was here to rescue Khan."

"You mean that fool of a monkey!"

"Yes Shadow but please understand, this is all a misunderstanding."

"A misunderstanding? From the way he was attacking me, I'd say he knew what he was doing."

"He simply mistook you for the Mobian that caused this destruction."

"Whatever."

"Shadow, what's the matter with you? You're never like this."

"What's the matter? I'll tell you. First of all, an Eggman robot infiltrated the facility but because of the Mobian incident, I had to leave it behind. For all I know, it could of already left with what it came here to find. Second, the Mobian that attacked the base almost took me out with one hit and left without me landing a single attack. And third, that brainless monkey nearly finished the job of killing me."

"I'm sorry Shadow. I didn't know."

"Well, now you do. Now please do me a favor and head back to Knothole and take that lunatic monkey with you as well."

"What? You want me to leave?"

"That's right Sally."

"Shadow, I can't believe you would say that to me! I thought you loved me!"

"I moved on Sally, so should you."

Small tear droplets began to drop from Sally's face.

"What makes you think you can do that to her?" asked an enraged Khan.

"Why do you care? You're not even part of the conversation!"

"Because I don't like it when a lady's feelings get hurt!"

"Well aren't you a gentlemonkey! Want do you want, bananas?"

"Why don't you shut up!"

"How about you take that staff of yours and shove it up your-"

"Enough!" yelled Sally.

She walks over to Khan.

"It's alright. Shadow means what he says and getting angry about his decision won't change his mind."

She turns around to face Shadow.

"If you want me to leave, then I will. But know this Shadow. Ever since you left for G.U.N. on that day of celebration, I always wondered when you would change your mind and return to the Freedom Fighters. But seeing how it has been over a year, I guess it'll never happen. I loved you Shadow, even when you left us. But now to me, that love has just died off. Good-bye Shadow the hedgehog."

Sally turns back around to Khan.

"Let's go."

Khan calls forth his magical cloud that came from below and lifts him up. Sally then jumps onto the monkey's arms and the two flew off. Shadow looks on at the two until they were no longer in his line of view.

"What a way to break a woman's heart Shadow" said Rouge as she flew towards him. "What's worse is that you seem to be showing any signs of regret."

"I never feel regrets."

Shifting now to the open blue sky, Khan and Sally are seen flying among the clouds, heading back to Knothole.

"If you don't mind me asking, but did you date that fool hedgehog?"

"Yes I did. And as I look back, I feel now that that was a mistake."

Sally closes her eyes, hugs Khan tighter, and moves her head closer to his chest. Realizing this, the monkey gave a small but distinct smile.

This post has been edited by UltimateLifeForm: 21 June 2009 - 12:59 AM

[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 19: A New Ally

"Really? No regrets? Are you sure?" asked Rouge discernly.

"Yes I'm sure. Besides, she'll be better off without me anyways."

An explosion was heard outside.

"Seems Eggman still wants to tear this place apart."

"Hmph! I'll go deal with him. Chaos Control!"

Shadow reappears outside of the base and found himself staring at the metal blimp. Inside of it, Eggman is seen standing watching multiple monitor screens.

"This is beginning to bore me! Those buffoons down there aren't even trying to shoot me down. Prepare to blow the base to pieces!"

"Eggman sir!" exclaimed one of the robots. "Shadow has been spotted on surveillance cam 3."

"Is that so? Zoom in on that zone."

A screen in the top row of monitors quickly zoomed in on Shadow.

"Ah! So the hedgehog finally decides to show himself! Things have just got more interesting. Aim all cannons at Shadow! Now!"

The cannons that were previously blasting at the GUN base ceased fire and targeted Shadow.

"A scary sight isn't it rodent?" asked Eggman through the intercom. "If I were you, I'd beg for mercy."

"Those cannons aren't nearly as scary as having to actually look at you in the face."

"ARGH!! How dare you disrespect me! I'm the most renowned genius this world has ever faced!"

"More like renowned imbecile."

"That's it! I'm going to blow you to smithereens! Ready all cannons! Open fire!"

All at once, every single cannon fired on Shadow. The hedgehog, however, stood his ground. Moments later, a large explosion took place. Once the smoke cleared, Eggman happily looked on as there was nothing but a large crater.

"Hohohoho! I knew that rodent couldn't handle the awesome firepower of the Egg Blimp!"

"Sorry to dissappoint but if you truly want to get rid of me, you're going to need to have bigger and faster cannons."

Eggman slowly turns his head around and spots Shadow standing there. The rotund man begins to sweat.

"Shadow! Y- You survived? Uhh... O- Of course you did. Tha- That was my intention the whole time. I knew you would survive."

"That's funny. I remember you saying something along the lines of me not being able to handle the awesome firepower of your so called 'Egg Blimp'."

"Umm... Did I say that? You must of been hearing things. I would never boast!"

"Enough Eggman! Tell me why you're here."

"Sightseeing of course. I just love the jungle scenery here. All the birds and trees, I just love them all!"

"I don't have time for games! Tell me your purpose for attacking the base."

"Okay, okay! Just don't hurt me!"

"I won't as long as you tell me everything I need to know."

"All right. I'll start from the beginning. I'm here to retrieve Stark."

"He already left the island."

"Say what!? That can't be!"

"Unfortunetely for you, it is. I'm surprised that you didn't notice him in the air."

"Like I said, I was caught up with the scenery."

Furious, Shadow grabs Eggman's shirt and lifts him off the ground.

"Didn't I just say no more games?"

"I'm sorry. Please don't kill me!"

"Your too pathetic to kill. Why are you after Stark?"

"Because he is the key."

"To what?"

"World domination."

"Why do you need him for that?"

"It's quite simple really. He controls the five elements that make up this world. If I can capture him and harness that power for myself, then I'll be able to control nature itself. And as we all know, nature is all-powerful. All shall fear me and worship me as a god!"

Shadow throws Eggman to the ground.

"You're insane."

"Insane yes, but not unreasonable. Think about it Shadow. With all that power, I shall be able to rebuild a world where no one shall wage wars on one another or even live in poverty."

"All lies! You just want that power so you can establish your empire to dictate the citizens and force them into slavery."

"Come now Shadow. You don't truly believe that I'm that heartless do you?"

"You have no heart to begin with."

"You just hurt my feelings! How could you say that?"

"Cut the act! What will happen to Stark?"

"Why do you care?"

"He may be an enemy, but he still doesn't deserve to be subjecated to your horrible experiments."

"Who ever said I was trying to run experiments on him?"

"How else do you plan on obtaining his abilities?"

"There is always more than one method."

"Sorry Eggman but you won't get the chance to capture him. I'll stop you right here, right now!"

As Shadow prepares to attack Eggman, the door behind him opened, revealing Omega to stand there at the doorway.

"Omega quick! Get rid of Shadow!"

"As you command."

Omega's metal hands receded into his arms and were replaced by chain guns.

"ACK!!! What are you doing?! Don't shoot Omega!"

But the robot opened fire on the hedgehog. Eggman tried to take cover but he was pushed off the platform by Shadow. As Omega continues to spray bullets at Shadow, he skates around the control room, causing small explosions as the bullets hit the monitors and consoles.

"Omega! Stop! You'll bring the whole blimp down!"

But once again Omega fails to comply.

"Must eradicate hedgehog!"

The chain guns were replaced by missile launchers. Shadow stops in front of the main computer.

"Go for it."

Waves of missiles were launched towards Shadow. The hedgehog teleported and the missiles hit the main computer instead. A large explosion occurred.

"NOOOO! MY EGG BLIMP!!!"

From the outside view, parts of Egg Blimp began to explode in conjunction with the destruction of the main computer. Shadow watches on as the blimp began its gradual descent.

"ARRGH!! You stupid robot!!"

Eggman runs up to the plaform.

"You are completely worthless! Once we get out of here, I'm going to turn you into scrap!!"

Eggman runs out through the door to escape with Omega close behind. As Eggman got on a flying pod, he notices Omega was pointing the chain guns at him.

"What do you think you're doing? You dare to defy me?"

"I shall not be turned to scrap. It is you who will be shredded to pieces doctor."

Omega revs up the chain guns. Upon seeing this Eggman immediately launches the pod through the luanch tube. Omega turns on his rocket thrusters and follows in pursuit. Back on the outside, Shadow sees Eggman escape via the flying egg pod but also notices the Omega was chasing him. Transforming back his chain guns into hands, Omega grabs on to the pod.

"You piece of junk! Let go! You'll bring us both down!"

Eggman struggles to shake off Omega who was holding on tightly. Eggman tries to fly higher, but instead, he was going lower.

"Oh! That's right! I could I have forgotten."

Eggman smiles and presses a button on the pod. Suddenly, Omega ceased to function, resulting in him letting go of the pod. Eggman flies away while laughing. Omega falls fast and within seconds, crashes into the ground. Seeing all of this, Shadow teleports over to Omega's location and looks on at the robot.

The next scene shows Omega lying on top of a large metal table. The robot's eyes come back online and he moves them. He scans his new surroundings, indicating that he now lies in a large lit room. A door opens and in comes Shadow. Surprinsingly, Omega stands up and just looks at Shadow.

"Where am I?"

"At GUN hedaquarters. I saw you try to stop Eggman but fail and decided to bring to you here after seeing you fall straight to the ground."

"Why did you help me?"

"Because those who defy Eggman make for certain allies. And speaking of defiance, why did you betray Eggman?"

"He told me that I was worthless and that he threatened to turn me to scrap."

"Sounds like him all right."

"I don't understand. I am the ultimate E-series robot. I am more powerful than any other."

"Eggman doesn't care what you are. To him, you're nothing more than a walking metallic puppet. Once you've served your purpose, he'll get rid of you, just like how he has done with his previous robots. That's why it's important for you and me to work together to defeat him, once and for all."

"Don't you see me as the enemy?"

"I did. But now that you despise Eggman, I see you as a friend."

"Very well. I shall assist you in your cause hedgehog."

"The name's Shadow."

[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 20: Tests of Love and Duty Part 1

"Mmm... So this is Omega huh? He's quite a robot" said Rouge.

"I am more than just a robot. I am the Ultimate E-Series robot."

"Really? It seems I'm surrounded by strong men. How delightful!"

"Do you ever stay quiet Rouge?" asked Shadow.

"But Shadow, I can't hold in the excitement. First there was you and now its Omega. Who's next, Sonic?"

"Hmph!"

"Shadow, come to the command room immediately" said Commander Tower over the intercom.

"Wonder what's going on?" asked Rouge.

Shadow walks out of the barracks and made his way to the command room.

"A new assignmet Commander?"

"Not quite Shadow. This deals with more in the political field."

"Political field?"

"A certain policy of the President has been disregarded during the attack on Prison Island."

"That's probably because it didn't work. Not all policies are meant to be effective."

"That's not the point. The point is that Prison Island was put on total lockdown, no one was allowed in. Also, the base was in war time, meaning that all inacted policies are to be followed."

"Does this have something to do with Sally?"

"You saw her inside the base?"

"More than that. I saw her with Monkey Khan."

"So it was her."

"What did Sally do?"

"She released Monkey Khan, who was the policy."

"How is that?"

"We were given specific orders to not let anyone free Khan."

"And since Sally set him free during war time, she is suspectible to trial."

"Precisely."

"What of diplomatic immunity?"

"Doesn't apply."

"What do you want me to do about it?"

"Go to Knothole and explain the situation."

"King Max is not going to like the fact that his daughter is going to be put on trial."

"Well he is just going to have to face the facts."

"Understood."

The scene now shifts to the village of Knothole where King Max and Alicia are enjoying the outdoors.

"Such a beautiful day isn't it?" asked King Max.

"Indeed it is honey" responded Alicia.

Sally is seen coming towards them with arms wrapped around Monkey Khan's right one.

"Evening father. Evening mother."

"Good evening sweetie" said Alicia. "Come to enjoy the weather?"

"Yes we have."

"Well good. Come sit with us."

Both Sally and Khan sat down on the bench next to Max and Alicia. As the four began to enjoy themselves, Shadow appeared before them.

"No. Not him again!"

"Shadow! What are you doing here?"

"To bring you news Sally."

"You changed your mind?"

"No. I came to tell you that you're on bad terms with the President."

"What do you mean?"

"You freed monkey breath over there who was not supposed to be sent free."

"Hey! Lay off!"

"Don't get me started. Unlike last time, I am at full strength now. You are going to end up in a world of hurt if you don't sit back down and keep your mouth shut."

"Shadow, I don't understand. I did what I did because it is the duty of a Freedom Fighter. You know that."

"Yes I do but you chose a bad time to do so. Because of Eggman's attack on Prison Island, the base was put on lockdown and placed in war time. During that time, all policies brought up by the President are to be followed by the rote. And as you may already know, by freeing Khan, you disregarded the policy of not to let him loose."

"So what does that mean?"

"You are to be brought to trial."

"WHAT?!"

King Max stands up in rage.

"You can't be serious? My daughter in court? Unacceptable!"

"Sorry King Maximillian. I've been ordered to escort her to a human court."

"Shadow! Of all the people... I never knew you would go this far."

"Sorry your majesty. I'm just performing my duty."

"Forget your duty! You may no longer be with us but your loyalty still lies with the Acorn family."

"Actually, it's to the President now."

"No Shadow! I will not allow-"

"Father please. That's enough."

"But Sally, you can't really give yourself up."

"I have to father. Shadow's right. I knew of the presidental policy, but I continued with my actions. It makes sense for me to brought before their judges."

"I don't think so babe. That hedgehog is going have to fight me first."

"If you're that desparate to be beaten, fine by me."

"No! There will be no fighting. Khan please, just this once, step down and let me go."

"Alright fine."

"Thank you."

She gives him a kiss on the cheek.

"Don't worry father. I'll be fine."

The two hug with Queen Alicia joining in. After all three release their hug, Sally walks up to Shadow.

"Okay Shadow. I'm ready."

"Sorry it had to be this way Sally."

As Shadow prepares to use Chaos Control, a vortex opened before them. Because the two were in close proximity, they were pulled in. The vortex closes. The next scene shows Shadow and Sally waking up in an unknown world.

"Where the heck are we?"

"Not sure. NICOLE, have any idea?"

"Currently scanning the surrounding area Sally. According to the database, this place is new and uncharted."

"That's just great."

"Hahahaha! Welcome to my world" said a husky voice from a distance.

"Who are you?"

"We already met. Surely you can tell from my voice."

"Not really. I normally don't pay attention to how one talks."

"No matter. In time you will know but for right now, you should be more concerned about you and your girlfriend."

The platform that Shadow and Sally was standing on began to crack in between them. Sally's side gave way, causing her to fall. As Shadow tries to grab her, he gets hit by a dark blue blur. Shadow stands back up and sees Sonic standing there. As for Sally, she manages to grab on to a ledge, struggling to pull herself up.

"Sonic?! What are you doing here?"

"To kill you Shadow. Prepare yourself."

"Shadow help!"

"Make a choice hedgehog. Will you fight, or will you save her? Choose wisely. HAHAHAHA!

This post has been edited by UltimateLifeForm: 17 July 2009 - 09:15 PM

[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 21: Test of Love and Duty Part 2

"It's obvious what my choice is."

Shadow skates past Sonic and tries to save Sally but the blue blur knocks Shadow away.

"Come on Shadow. What's the matter? Am I too fast for ya?"

"Shut up!"

Shadow again tries to save Sally but Sonic prevents him from doing so.

"It seems as if the cool blue dude have finally got you pinned down."

"No. You're not Sonic. If you were, you would have saved Sally yourself."

"Maybe I got a change of heart."

"I doubt it. Who are you really?"

"I'm Sonic. It can't get any clearer than that."

"I don't have time for your games. Chaos Spear!"

Sonic quickly evades the attack but that evasion gave Shadow the opportunity to skate towards Sally. Sonic sees this and runs after him. Shadow turns around and throws another Chaos Spear, taking Sonic by surprise. As Shadow neared Sally, a grenade blew up in front of him.

"What the crap?!"

"Sorry Shadow, I can't let you save her just yet."

Shadow looks up and sees Geoffrey standing on a rock platform above him.

"Great. More gutter-trash to get rid of."

"I'll make you eat those words hedgehog."

Geoffrey pulls a pin on a grenade and tosses it towards Shadow. From behind, Sonic recovers and closes on Shadow. Seeing this, Shadow jumps backwards and kicks the grenade with his left foot, sending it to Sonic. Sonic tries to dodge it but he was too close so the grenade blew up in his face.

"Not bad Shadow" said Geoffrey with a smile. "You took out Sonic in style. Couldn't have done it better myself."

"Why don't you shut your trap and come down here so we can fight."

"Why should I? I'd rather blow you to pieces!"

Geoffrey unstraps the bazooka from his body and aims it.

"Hasta la vista Shadow!"

Geoffrey pulls the trigger and thus began the barrage. Far from the battle, Sally manages to lift herself up unto the rock platform.

"Geoffrey, STOP!!"

The skunk looks over to his right. Instead of responding to her, he aims the bazooka at Sally. Just when he was about to pull the trigger, Shadow appeared in the crosshairs, blocking his view.

"Not so fast skunk. We're not finished yet."

Shadow punches Geoffrey straight in the face, resulting in him dropping the bazooka. Shadow destroys the weapon with a Chaos Spear. Geoffrey gets back on his feet, wipes the blood from his lips, and then pulls out a combat knife.

"I'm going to enjoy this."

Geoffrey runs towards Shadow and swings the knife. Shadow jumps back. Again Geoffrey prepares another attack. This time he tries to jab the hedgehog. Shadow, however, grabs Geoffrey's wrist, pulls him forward, and elbow him right in the throat. The Royal Secret Service commander drops the knife and holds his throat as he starts to gag.

"King Max would be disappointed with you. But don't worry, I'll end you right here and now so you don't have to worry about getting executed for your treason."

"Not so fast Shadow" yelled a familiar voice.

Shadow turns around and sees Sonic chokeholding Sally.

"Damn you Sonic! Let her go!"

"Should you really be worried about her? She's not the only one in trouble."

Shocked to hear that, Shadow turns around and sees Knuckles standing there, also putting Bunnie in a chokehold.

"Su- Sugah-hog. H- Help me."

"What? Bunnie as well? What is going on here?"

"That's the question where you'll have to answer for yourself" said Knuckles as he began to laugh maniacally.

This post has been edited by UltimateLifeForm: 29 August 2009 - 10:12 PM

[UltimateLifeForm]

Chapter 22: Test of Love and Duty Part 3

“Let her go Knuckles!”

“Shouldn’t you be more concerned about Sally? Or have you fallen for Bunnie?”

“Yea Shadow. You can only choose one” said Sonic. “Who is it gonna be?”

Shadow looks and sees that Sonic and Knuckles are standing at opposite ends of the rock platform with Sally and Bunnie held over the edge.

“HAHAHAHA! It’s hard being a hero isn’t it? Especially when you have to make decisions such as this.”

Following the voice, Shadow looks up and spots a sight all too familiar.

“NAUGUS?!

“That’s right Shadow. Welcome to my world.”

“I should have known you would behind all of this. Why did you bring me and Sally here?”

“Simple. To test the both of you.”

“A test? What kind of test?”

“To see who you really are.”

“What do you mean? And how does it involve Sally?”

“So many questions, so little time. You should stay focused on the matter at hand.”

Shadow looks back at Sally and Bunnie and saw that they were running out of time.

“End this now Naugus.”

“That’s not my call.”

“Why not? It’s your world.”

“True but it was my master who devised such a brilliant plan to lure you here. Ending this will only fail him and I would hate to have that happen.”

“Your master huh? Where is he?”

“Are you really willing to leave your fellow Freedom Fighters behind just to find him. Is it worth it? After all, it is only two lives at stake now compared to the millions that will be endangered later on.”

Shadow’s hand began to glow with red Chaos energy.

“I’m going to kill you Naugus. Then afterwards, I’m going to kill your master.”

“Such bold words Shadow. Too bad it won’t change the outcome. Sonic! Knuckles! Drop them!”

On that command, Sonic and Knuckles let go of their grip on their victim. Shadow jumped off the platform in an attempt to save them but Naugus stopped the hedgehog with a force field. Shadow watched helplessly as Sally and Bunnie fell into the abyss.

“HAHAHAHAHA! Victory is mine! Knuckles, go and finish him off. Let this place be his grave.”

Knuckles grinned and jumped down to where Shadow is who was still looking down.

“Sorry Shadow. Gotta do what I gotta do. Nothing personal.”

Knuckles raises his right fist and then quickly brings it down to try to take out Shadow. But much to his surprise, Shadow used Chaos Control when Knuckles’ fist came within mere inches of hitting him. Knuckles desperately looked around for Shadow but he was nowhere to be seen. Suddenly, the echidna lets out a scream.

“AAAAAAGHHHHH”

Knuckles looked down at his chest and was horrified to see that Shadow’s fist went right through.

“Sha- Shadow, why?”

“It’s nothing personal.”

Shadow quickly pulled out his fist from Knuckles’ stomach. The echidna fell forward and when he landed on the ground, he evaporated into a puff of smoke.

“So you managed to figure out that your comrades are nothing but magic dust. Impressive.”

“On my part, yes. On yours, no.”

“Making a mockery of me will only lead you to your death that much sooner. Sonic! Get rid of him !”

“On it Naugus my man. Shadow is going down!”

Sonic rolled into a ball and dashed towards Shadow. Shadow did the same. Though the two used the same technique, Shadow’s was stronger for he knocked Sonic back.

“Not bad Shadow but let’s see how you fare against this.”

Sonic extended his right arm and conjured up a sword made up of magic dust.

“A sword huh? It’s impressive-looking, but do you really know how to use it?”

“Of course I do. You’ll find out for yourself how good of a swordsman I am once I slice you up into pieces.”

Sonic ran towards Shadow with both hands on the sword. Shadow stood his ground.

“Nice knowing ya Shadow!”

Sonic swung the sword from the side to try to strike Shadow’s neck. But as quick as the hedgehog can run, Shadow formed a shield made of Chaos energy that broke the sword in two.

“What? A shield?!” exclaimed Naugus. “Your Chaos powers have grown Shadow.”

“Of course it has Naugus. Now, I believe it’s time for a new test but this time, you’ll be the one to endure it.”