Five years, new developments
Five years pass and Sapphire has eased into her new lifestyle. As for Shadow, he's nervous as Knuckles and Harriot approach him.
"Hey, there. Are you alright?" Harriot asks
"l want to propose to Sapphire again. But I don't know whether it's a good idea." Shadow responds
"Wait, she's slowed the relationship down?"
"Yes, in fact she's the one that requested it."
"I've gotta hand it to Sapphire, you did propose a bit soon, both times." Knuckles says
"Knuckles!"
"What?"
"It took you two years to finally ask me on a date."
"Wait, you two are dating now?"
"Yes, we are dating now. It took time but was worth the wait."
Shadow quickly goes home; to find Sapphire there, crafting something.
"Hey, what're you doing?" Shadow asks
"Nothing, I'm not doing anything." Sapphire responds
"Are you sure?"
"Yep, I'm sure."
Sapphire makes her creation invisible and leaves in a heartbeat, leaving Shadow confused. Sapphire goes to an empty cave chamber and continues her creation; to complete it in an hour. As for Shadow, he goes inside the cave, looking for Sapphire, for her to appear behind him.
"Hey, there." Sapphire greets
"Hey, what're you doing here?" Shadow asks
"I was making something for you and didn't want to ruin it. Turn your back to me, I'm finished with my creation."
Shadow turns his back to Sapphire, as she puts a cape over Shadow's shoulders. Sapphire makes a mirror appear in front of Shadow, for him to admire Sapphire's work.
"What gave you the idea?" Shadow asks
"Remember when you proposed after Halloween?" Sapphire asks
"Yes, why?"
"The cape is your clue. You can work the rest out."
As this is said, Sapphire leaves for the city. Shadow makes the headpiece appear.
'Is this year the year I propose?' Shadow thinks, becoming nervous
Shadow leaves the cave, to be approached by Blaze.
"Hey, Shadow. You look nice. Sapphire's work?" Blaze greets
"Yes, I'm trying to work out what she's trying to say." Shadow responds
"Isn't it obvious? She's trying to ask you something."
"But what?"
"The only thing you can do is find out for yourself."
Blaze leaves and Shadow is still confused. Then it clicks, she wants to propose to him but won't say it. Shadow heads to Sapphire's city home to look for her. Sapphire soon appears behind Shadow, tapping his shoulder.
"Hey, there. I've got something to ask, but I'm nervous." Sapphire admits
"Take your time." Shadow responds
Sapphire breathes to compose herself.
"Shadow, of all the ones I could choose, I chose you. Over the years, I've grown to love you more and get closer to you. To the point, will you be my wedded?"
"Is that what the cape is for?"
"Yes, it is. I didn't want to ruin it for you. I'm hoping I haven't."
"No, you haven't."
Shadow spends time thinking and reaches a decision.
"Sapphire Hawthorne, I would be honoured to take you as my wedded." Shadow responds, making the headpiece appear
Shadow puts the headpiece in Sapphire's quills.
"How long have you wanted to do this?"
"For around a year, but I've been rather nervous."
"Who's that?"
"Well, women aren't known to propose to their loved ones."
"Unless, it's two women in the first place."
"That's true."
Shadow and Sapphire are soon in an embrace, for a long while. The pair are soon hand in hand as they decide to return home. Shadow and Sapphire leave, to be greeted by the press.
"Hey, we heard your proposal. When's the wedding?" A reporter asks
"When we're ready to get married." Shadow answers
Shadow and Sapphire walk out and head for home - for the press to stop following them. The pair return home and are quickly greeted by the others.
"Congratulations, you two." Blaze says
"Thank you, it's greatly appreciated." Sapphire responds
"We're happy for you both. Well and truly." Tails says
"Thank you, Tails."
Shadow and Sapphire go to their shared home. As for Scarlett, she's talking to Julie.
"So, what brings you here, Julie?" Scarlett asks
"Ever since the celebration I've been thinking; maybe Sapphire and her crew need a bodyguard to stop people bombarding them." Julie responds
"Keep going..."
"I was thinking, since I've got the training and have recently quit my photography job, maybe I could be their bodyguard for when they visit the city."
"Well, Sonic and Sapphire do know you."
"So, what's the verdict?"
"Bring me your certificates and I may consider it. But this also comes down to whether they want a bodyguard. Because if they don't, I can't hire your services."
"Okay, thank you for your time."
"It's been a pleasure meeting you, Julie. Have a lovely day."
"Same to you, Scarlett."
Julie leaves and Scarlett thinks about the request. As for Sapphire, she's approached by Sonic.
"Hey, is everything alright?" Sapphire asks
"You left your phone at Amy's and she says it's ringing." Sonic responds
"Okay, I'm coming."
Sapphire follows Sonic to Amy's place and finds her phone, to notice Scarlett ringing her and answers.
"Hello, this is Sapphire. Is something needed?" Sapphire asks
"Yes, this is Scarlett. Could you meet me at your city home and bring your fiancé and friends?" Scarlett responds
"Sure, we'll be there shortly."
"Okay, thank you for your time. See you soon."
"Goodbye, for now."
Sapphire hangs up.
"What was that about?" Sonic asks
"Scarlett wants to meet us all at my home for something." Sapphire responds
"What for?" Shadow asks as he approaches
"I don't know. Scarlett didn't say. But it did sound important."
Sapphire and the crew go to her city home, to notice Scarlett standing at the door.
"Hello, Scarlett. What's needed?" Sapphire asks
"Ah, just the ones I need to see." Scarlett says
"What's going on?"
"Julie, the former photographer from that celebration some years ago, has come to see me and is on her way here."
"Why would that be?" Sonic asks
"She's looking for work as a bodyguard and has mentioned you lot."
Julie soon arrives.
"Right, now that everyone's here, I'll let you all in and Scarlett will explain." Sapphire announces
Everyone is quickly let into the reception room.
"So, explain." Sapphire instructs
Scarlett breathes to compose herself.
"Julie came to my office, looking for work as a bodyguard and then mentioned you guys." Scarlett responds
"What does this involve?" Shadow asks
"Julie, your turn."
"Bodyguards are there to stop their clients getting bombarded by fans." Julie informs
"I'm confused. Why would we need a bodyguard?" Sonic asks
"As I've seen, there will be fans that try and get too close for comfort."
"And a bodyguard would...?"
Then it clicks to Sapphire, Julie wants to help with preventing anyone's personal space being invaded.
"Does Julie need to sign any paperwork?" Sapphire asks
"Yes, but that's only if you want to hire Julie's services." Scarlett responds
Sapphire soon freezes, stuck for a decision.
"Right, gather 'round." Sonic instructs
Everyone quickly gathers around. After a couple of hours, they reach a decision.
"Right. We've made the decision to take on Julie's services." Shadow announces
"Excellent. I'll get the paperwork. Julie, come with me to sign." Scarlett responds
"Thank you, I appreciate it." Julie says
"You're welcome. You warned Sonic and I about that reporter. That's enough to give you the job you want, in my eyes." Sapphire responds
Scarlett and Julie leave to sort the paperwork. The group soon leave and head for home; to be, yet again, greeted by the press and fans.
"Hey Shadow, Sapphire!" Fans greet, excitedly
"Hello, there. Oh, the press..." Sapphire says, nervously
'Oh great...' Sapphire thinks
"Could you excuse us please? We're trying to get home." Blaze informs
Soon, a path is made, and the group get off the porch.
"Could we get autographs?" Fans ask
"Are you alright?" Shadow asks
"Nervous, but I'll manage." Sapphire says
Sapphire signs a few autographs and moves onto the press.
"Rumours are saying that your romance with Shadow is a sham. Are they true? A reporter asks
"No, they are not. Listen, all me and my friends want to do is go home and rest after a meeting. So, could you all do the nicest thing and please leave us all to go home?"
"Wait, so how many times did Shadow propose?"
"I proposed twice before she proposed to me. Our relationship isn't a sham and all that we request, is that we are left alone to return to our home. Now, can you all please leave?" Shadow says
The group of fans and press quickly disband. Sapphire and the others race back home, tired and wanting to go their separate ways. Sapphire goes to the cave top, to notice Silver near the waters. She ignores this and begins a meditation session on the cave top. Sapphire meditates, for a fire and water aura to appear underneath her. Two hours pass, Sapphire finishes her meditation session and joins her friends, to notice an invitation in Knuckles' hand.
"Hey, what's the invite?" Sapphire asks
"Maxine's inviting us to her wedding that happens next month. She's also sent us a copy of the invite list." Knuckles responds
"Won't the press be there?"
"The invite says that no press employees will be allowed entry. That includes former press employees. Unless, their attendance is for a specific reason, such as a bodyguard."
"I'll think about attending. I don't know whether I want to just yet."
Sapphire goes to the cave and thinks the invite over. As for Shadow, he goes to the others.
"Is everything alright with Sapphire?" Shadow asks
"We've been invited to Maxine's wedding and Sapphire doesn't know if she wants to attend." Sonic responds
"I'll speak to Sapphire."
Shadow goes to find Sapphire; to find her in the cave, near the different chamber entrances.
"Hey, there." Shadow greets
"Hello, Shadow." Sapphire responds
"I've seen the invite."
"Yes, I see that. I looked at it and thought of my parents' divorce. I didn't know how to react."
"Oh."
"Now, I'm faced with a decision; whether to attend Maxine's wedding or not."
"All I can say, is that it would be a very lonesome celebration if you weren't there with me."
"You think so?"
"Yes, of course I do. You were amazing at the pre-marriage celebration."
"I know, all the guests were talking about how stunning I looked. Anyway, I still don't know whether to attend."
"I think you should. But I'll leave that decision to you."
Shadow leaves and Sapphire weighs up her options. After an hour, Sapphire decides to attend the wedding. Sapphire joins the others.
"Hey, can I look at the invite?" Sapphire asks
"Sure." Knuckles responds, handing over the invite
Sapphire reads the invite to find that the dress code is formal and goes to the shopping centre to shop for a formal dress, to be greeted by Natalie.
"Hey, Natalie. How are you?" Sapphire greets
"Hey, Sapphire. I'm good thanks, today's my day off. Didn't expect to see you here, though." Natalie responds
"I've been invited to a wedding and I'm looking for somewhere to buy formal attire. Do you have any suggestions?"
"I could suggest where I work. But we don't sell what you're looking for. Sorry about that."
"It's all good, I'll just look around. Thanks anyway, Natalie."
"You're welcome. I'll see you around."
"Goodbye for now, Natalie."
Natalie leaves for home and Sapphire is quickly greeted by a fashion designer.
"Hello, are you Sapphire Hawthorne?" the fashion designer asks
"Yes, that would be me. You are...?" Sapphire responds
"Hello there, I'm Charlene Hammonds, an upcoming fashion designer. I'm looking for new clients to expand my business. Are you looking for an ensemble?"
"Yes, I've been invited to a wedding and it's got a formal dress code. I'm looking for something formal to wear to the event."
"Would you like to join me? I think I might have something for you. When's the wedding?"
"Next month."
Sapphire and Charlene leave for Charlene's studio in the city. Sapphire quickly notices designs pinned to a corkboard.
"Drawn to my designs?" Charlene asks
"Yes, they look stunning. Where did you learn fashion design?" Sapphire asks
"Self-taught. I tried to learn at college, but I couldn't process what the tutors were saying. So, I quit college and took the challenge of teaching myself art and other skills required to get into fashion design."
"I'm impressed. Anyway, back to the reason why I'm here."
"Oh, yes. You need to be measured up and I'll return with the design."
Sapphire is soon greeted by a tailor and measured up as Charlene returns with her design.
"I've drawn up your dress design. What do you think?" Charlene announces, as Sapphire admires the design
"This design looks lovely. Will this be made to my measurements?"
"Yes, they will miss. This dress will be made to your measurements and specifications ready for your wedding attendance." The tailor responds
"And that is supposed to take... how long?"
"From start to finish, fabric to high quality garment. Between the region of two and three weeks."
"That long for a dress; how come?"
"Getting the fabrics together and finding the people to make the garment. Charlene is known for spending her money on the best tailors and dressmakers."
"So, what does Charlene do?"
"She draws up the designs and shows them to the clients. Then she feeds back to the tailors and dressmakers the design that the client chooses. The rest is then left to tailors like me and dressmakers to make the design come to life."
"Is there a price for the dresses made?"
"Usually between the region of two-hundred and one-thousand cash. Nothing more or less."
"How much will my garment be?"
"With material costs, the final price comes to five-hundred and fifty cash. But I can go down to four-hundred and forty cash at maximum." Charlene responds
"Can we meet in the middle? Because I know that you're trying to make money from your work."
"So, what about five hundred?"
"That sounds reasonable. That is a deal, Charlene."
Soon, the two women shake hands and Sapphire pays her dress costs. As Sapphire leaves, the tailor gives Charlene a disgusted look.
"What?" Charlene asks
"You know what, Charlene. If your business doesn't get off the ground, you're screwed in terms of your mother. Plus, your first serious client is a highly respected celebrity."
"Wait, Sapphire is a celebrity?"
"Yes, she is. You know how these celebrities are. When they want a garment, there's always a reason attached."
"Oh, I never knew that."
"Now you do. The most important thing is getting this garment started and finished to a very high quality. For a celeb, it's the only way you'll get them to return."
After their rather tense conversation, the tailor and Charlene get to work on Sapphire's dress. As for Sapphire, she returns home from the city and goes to Shadow's home, to notice that he isn't there. Shadow soon appears behind Sapphire.
"Hello, there." Shadow greets
"Hey, Shadow. Where were you?" Sapphire responds
"I've just been with Scarlett. I've asked her about some time out from the work."
"Why would that be?"
"You seemed stressed and overworked."
"Right... about this time out?"
"I've spoken to Scarlett about that. She has said only if you want it."
"All I know is, I could sure use it."
Sapphire's phone rings, it's Scarlett. Sapphire picks up.
"Sapphire speaking." Sapphire says
"Hello, this is Scarlett Walters, your manager." Scarlett responds
"Hello, what's needed?"
"Shadow and Blaze have come to me and asked if I can get you a break off work. Now, I'm calling to ask if you want a break."
"Will I get left alone during this break?"
"I'll ensure that no-one gets in the way of your break. But, knowing about the situation with one of your friends, I'm not sure how long that will last."
"I'll take some time off. Five years of no rest hasn't helped."
"Alright, does a year sound good?"
"That sounds great. Let's do that."
"Your break will start in a couple of days. Just to notify, Julie will start her duties when you're next in the city, with or without your companions. The meeting place has been agreed as your city home."
"Cool, I'll see you again soon."
"Bye for now, Sapphire."
Sapphire hangs up and quickly freezes.
"Are you alright?" Shadow asks
"You and Blaze?" Sapphire responds
"We both joined forces and went to Scarlett about getting you a break."
"Who came up with the idea?"
"Blaze noticed that you were stressed and pulled me aside with the idea."
"So, Blaze is the one to thank."
"She was the one behind it. So, I should think so."
"I want to thank you as well. You're a saviour."
Shadow and Sapphire are quickly locked in a soothing embrace.
"You're welcome, my love."
Sapphire soon looks Shadow in the eyes. Blaze soon approaches the pair.
"Hello you two." Blaze greets
"Hello, Blaze." Shadow responds
"How did Sapphire take the news?"
"A bit of a shock. But it was well taken."
Sapphire soon composes herself.
"Thanks for this, Blaze. You're a great friend." Sapphire says
"That's what friends are for. Now, you as my friend need to make these final two days before your break count. An appearance has been found for tonight and you're the main attraction. Find your best clothes for tonight, then call Scarlett for details."
Sapphire races to her fashion chamber and puts her favourite outfit together; to feel her phone vibrating, it's Scarlett calling. Sapphire picks up.
"Sapphire speaking." Sapphire greets
"Hello again, Sapphire. I'm calling with details about tonight's appearance." Scarlett responds
"Spill the details."
"This is a solo appearance and doesn't have a dress code. You're wanted at a party at the city hall at seven tonight. Make sure you wear your best outfit because the press will be critiquing your fashion choice. You'll need to be in your human form for this appearance."
"Right. Thanks for the details."
"You're welcome. Julie will be accompanying you for work. Goodbye for now, Sapphire."
"Goodbye, Scarlett."
Sapphire hangs up and grows in confidence with her outfit. She soon changes into her long-sleeved t-shirt and denim shorts and goes to the cave top, to discover that Silver isn't home.
'Where is Silver now?' Sapphire thinks
Sapphire joins the others, to notice Blaze pacing around, worried.
"Hey, are you okay Blaze?" Sapphire asks
"It's Silver. He's gone to the city and everyone's wondering what he's up to." Blaze responds
Soon, Sapphire's phone vibrates, a text from Scarlett. It reads: 'Hello again. A white hedgehog, named Silver is loitering around looking for reporters and photographers.'
Sapphire responds: 'What for; do you have any intel?'
Scarlett responds: 'I don't know. But all I know is he could be a career threat.'
'What should I do?'
'The only thing you can do is watch your surroundings. Silver could be anywhere.'
'Right, thanks for the warning.'
'You're welcome. Goodbye for now.'
Sapphire quickly puts her phone away. Infuriated, she races to the city in search of Silver, to find him with a reporter. She listens in, to find out that he's planning to sabotage her appearance and uses magic to go to her home. Soon, a circle of flames appears around her feet. As for Blaze, she's in the city looking for Sapphire and decides to knock on her city home door. Sapphire answers the door, in tears.
"Are you alright?" Blaze asks
"Come in, and I'll explain." Sapphire responds
Sapphire and Blaze go to the reception room. Sapphire explains what she heard, leaving Blaze shocked.
"Is this what you heard?"
"Yes, he was talking to a reporter about it."
"What friend does that?"
"That's the same thing I thought."
Sapphire quickly realises that Silver is her enemy and goes to her bedroom. Two hours pass and the time is six in the evening.
"Sapphire, you need to get ready for your appearance." Blaze informs
"Okay, get me home quickly and I'll change." Sapphire responds
Sapphire and Blaze race home and Sapphire goes to her fashion chamber. Sapphire changes into her outfit and the time gets to six-forty-five.
'Right, let's rock this appearance!' Sapphire thinks
Sapphire races to the city hall, to see Silver waiting to get in. The time reaches seven and Sapphire is greeted by the press and Julie.
"Hey, friend." Julie greets
"Hey, Julie! It's great to see you again." Sapphire responds
"What's Silver doing here? He shouldn't be here."
"I don't know. But all I know is that he was talking to a reporter earlier."
"This isn't good. I'm calling Scarlett."
Julie calls Scarlett and explains the situation. The conversation quickly finishes, and Julie hangs up.
"What did Scarlett say?" Sapphire asks
"Scarlett has said that you need to keep away from him and she can't come to help you out." Julie says, in disappointment
"Right, did she say why?"
"Another client has called her for more urgent assistance and she's where that other client is."
"Okay. Julie, could you be on lookout for Silver?"
"I'm your bodyguard. It's all part of the service."
"Thank you."
Silver soon notices Sapphire and approaches, to be stopped by Julie.
"What're you doing here?" Silver asks
"Serving my duty, as I should be doing. Now, run along you shouldn't be here." Julie responds
"I was on the invite list."
"C'mon, Julie. Let's go and see." Sapphire says, watching Silver's intentions
Sapphire and Julie go to the bouncer and discover that Silver is on the invite list; much to Sapphire's dismay. Soon, the press approach her with questions and adoring fans.
"Looks like the press want you; unless you want me to stick around." Julie says
"No, please stick around." Sapphire responds
Julie stays with Sapphire, as she is bombarded with questions.
"So, Sapphire, what's your relationship with Silver; are you friends?" A reporter asks
"To be honest, I don't know whether we're friends or bitter enemies." Sapphire responds
"What happened?"
"Let's just say he tried to break Shadow and me up, twice."
Sapphire walks on as the press bombard her with more questions about her rivalry with Silver. As for Silver, he notices and steps in.
"Hey, could you all just leave Sapphire to celebrate? I'll answer all the questions you have about our 'friendship'." Silver responds, for the press to follow him around
"What happened just then?" Julie asks
"I think Silver just stood up for me." Sapphire responds
Sapphire's phone soon buzzes, it's Charlene. The text reads: 'Hello Sapphire, it's Charlene. I understand that you're busy, but I've ran into an issue with the dressmaker.'
Sapphire responds: 'How did you get my number?'
'Your manager, Scarlett and I are connected, business wise.'
'Besides that, continue...'
'I've had to hire a different dressmaker to make your garment, since the previous one declined to make it at last minute.'
'Right, so what do I have to do?'
'Nothing, I'm just notifying. I'll pay the new dressmaker.'
'Right, thanks for the intel. Is there anything else?'
'That would be all. I'll be in touch if things go wrong again.'
'Okay, goodbye for now Charlene.'
'See you soon, Sapphire.'
Sapphire puts her phone away and gets back to her appearance. As for Silver, he's with the press.
"So, what's this about a rivalry with Sapphire?" A reporter asks
"Well, I tried to flirt with her before all the fame and she must've mistook it for me trying to break her and Shadow up. Then, I released a press report about their relationship, at that point trying to break them up to get with Sapphire." Silver admits
"It's obvious that didn't work."
"No, it didn't. But I've come to terms with them being together. Although, Sapphire and I are trying to rekindle our friendship."
"Do you think it will happen?"
"All I can say is, I hope so."
The press soon leave Silver alone and Sapphire approaches him.
"Hey, Silver. Thanks for earlier, I appreciate it." Sapphire says
"You're welcome. I didn't come here to sabotage your event. I came here to keep the press away from you whilst you celebrate." Silver responds
"How did you manage that?"
"I admitted almost everything to do with our friendship and they left you alone."
"Wait, so you've told them that you've tried to break Shadow and me up?"
"Yes, since it was the truth. They're looking for you now to take pictures of your style, as far as I can gather."
"Right, I'll go and find them. Julie, come with me please."
Julie and Sapphire go and find the press; for them to find Sapphire.
"Hey, there. Could we get pictures of your outfit please?" A photographer asks
"Sure. Any particular pose you want, or can I stand however I want?" Sapphire responds
"However, you please. We should've got you at the entrance really, but we were instructed to wait until you get in."
Sapphire stands confidently as the photographer takes her picture. Soon after, fans gather around Sapphire. After signing a few autographs for teenage fans, she approaches a little girl; around the age of six years old and seems upset.
"Hello, there. Are you okay?" Sapphire asks the little girl
"I can't find my mummy." The little girl responds
"Alright, what's your name?"
"Lauren."
"Come with me, Lauren we'll find your mum."
Sapphire takes Lauren to the stage.
"Hello, could I have your attention please?" Sapphire asks, getting the audience's attention and soon adding "I've found someone's child walking around lost. Her name is Lauren; does anyone here know her mother?"
Soon, a woman approaches the stage and Sapphire notices.
"Hi, there. Are you Lauren's mother?" Sapphire asks
"No, I'm Lauren's older sister. But our mother has gone out, looking for Lauren." Lauren's sister responds
"Could I see you both safe? It's the least I could do."
"Certainly, it would do some good for our mother to meet you, since you found Lauren."
Sapphire joins Lauren and her sister to meet their mother. After seeing the family reunited, Sapphire remembers her father and leaves, to be stopped in her tracks.
"Wait, Sapphire. Thank you for bringing my daughter back to me." Lauren's mother says
"You're welcome. I'm going back inside now." Sapphire responds
Sapphire goes back inside, tears streaming down her face as Silver approaches.
"Hey, are you alright?" Silver asks
"Take me home. I don't want to stay here any longer." Sapphire responds
"Hey, is everything alright?" Julie asks as she approaches
"Sapphire wants to go home. Plain and simple."
Sapphire heads to the entrance, pushing people aside as she makes her exit. Silver and Julie rush to their friend.
"Silver, escort Sapphire home. I'll keep the people away." Julie instructs
Silver takes Sapphire back to their homeland; for Sapphire to rush, making an electric field around her feet and turning back into a hedgehog. Shadow walks past, catching Sapphire's field. He soon storms towards Silver.
"What have you done?" Shadow asks, in distaste
"Sapphire came back into the celebration in tears and wanted me to bring her home. I don't know what she saw, but that's got something to do with it." Silver responds
"So, for the first time in a while...?"
"I've done nothing to upset Sapphire, I'll assure you of that."
"Did anyone tell you that she's grieving over her late father?"
"No one has told me."
After some time in tension and settling their differences, the two hedgehogs look for Sapphire; to find her in the cave, fully surrounded by an electric field and in tears. With caution, they both approach Sapphire, for her to stand and look to them, in fear.
"What're you doing here?!" Sapphire asks, scared and backing away
"We're here for you, and you only." Silver responds
"Neither of you need to be here, let alone together! Just leave me alone!"
As her fear worsens, her field strengthens.
"What's happened?" Shadow asks
"I was seeing a young woman and her younger sister safe to their mother. I then saw them huddle up and it reminded me of how my father was with me... before he left me behind!"
As this is said, Sapphire starts feeling physical pain from the electricity and becomes more frightened. After a sudden shock, she falls to the ground, unconscious and not moving. Silver and Shadow rush to Sapphire's aid; for a piece of paper to appear, floating above Sapphire's body. Shadow takes the piece of paper.
"This is Sapphire's writing." Shadow says
"What does it say?" Silver asks
Silver and Shadow read the note. It reads: 'Having you both see me like this hurts me. To keep me here, I've discovered that my white wings need to go. You both need to say this together: Light and Dark seal the deal. Working as one, the wings of white shall sacrifice.'
"What's this?" Silver asks
"A spell, to save Sapphire's life. We need to say these words as one unit." Shadow responds
"You're kidding."
"No, I'm not. We might be bitter about each other, but that must be put aside."
"You are right, my daughter's fiancé." A voice says
Shadow looks up to see Sapphire's father's spirit, hovering above.
"Yes, I know your name, Shadow the Hedgehog. I do not want to see my daughter leave you and her friends. Work with the one next to you and put those written words to good use."
As this is said, Sapphire's father's spirit vanishes. Silver quickly puts his distaste for Shadow aside and works with him to get Sapphire back to life.
"Ready for this?" Shadow asks, nervously
"As ever." Silver responds
The two hedgehogs recite the words and Sapphire wakes up. Still surrounded by electricity, Sapphire is trapped without a way out.
"Right, now that the white wings are gone. What about the electricity?" Silver asks
"I might be trapped in the field, but I should be able to get out alone. As for you two, if you haven't already, you need to settle your differences." Sapphire says
"We've done that; not that we like each other."
"That wasn't the point, I know you don't like each other. The main thing is, if this happens again, of which I doubt, you'll both need to prevent the bitterness from taking over and work together, for once in your lives."
As this is said, Silver and Shadow turn with their backs facing each other.
'Yep, they're back to normal...' Sapphire thinks
After this, the group disband and go their separate ways. As for Scarlett, she's in the city looking for Sapphire, to bump into Blaze.
"Hey, there." Scarlett greets
"Hey, Scarlett. What's the trouble?" Blaze asks
"I'm looking for Sapphire. Do you know where she is?"
"Sapphire's just gone home. Not in the city. Shall I show you where?"
"That would be useful, thank you Blaze."
"The pleasure is mine. This way."
Scarlett and Blaze go to where Sapphire's new home is; to be approached by Silver.
"Hey Silver. What's up?" Blaze asks
"Now's not the best time for Scarlett to be here." Silver responds
"Would you care to explain why that is?"
"Sapphire... is surrounded by electricity." Shadow responds as he approaches
"Is this magical, by chance?" Scarlett asks
"Yes, why?"
"I have a friend with same issue with their magic. Random elements create force fields around the magical bearer. My magic used to be the same."
"You have magic?"
Scarlett soon makes an electric stone appear and edits it to fit Sapphire's needs. Everyone there watches in silent amazement.
"Besides that, where's Sapphire?" Scarlett asks
"This way." Shadow responds
Shadow escorts Scarlett to where Sapphire is, to notice that the force field has strengthened. Scarlett races to Sapphire and hands over the stone.
"Take this. It'll help you out." Scarlett says
Sapphire takes the stone and waits. The stone gets to work and Sapphire's force field lowers.
"How did you know that I'd need this?" Sapphire asks
"I've got a friend with the same problem as you." Scarlett responds
"Where did you get the stone?"
Scarlett makes a sceptre appear, using magic. Sapphire is quickly speechless.
"You didn't know I had magic. I've also got something to show Shadow and yourself. Gather around."
Shadow quickly joins Sapphire and watches on. Scarlett composes herself and turns into her native being a cat, with tasselled bracelets and a pendant around her neck. Her fur is scarlet red, with black stripes and she wears a long-sleeved t-shirt with ripped jeans and trainers.
"Wait, so this is the real you?" Sapphire asks
"Yes, this is the real me. Not a gimmick or anything else of the sort." Scarlett responds
"Are you two related?" Shadow asks
"No, we're not."
"Share the story behind your forms." Sapphire says
"I was born as a cat and got to an age where I wanted work. So, I had to learn how to turn into a human form to get work; that's when magic came into play. After that, I met someone whose magic was out of control and we made quick friends; I helped her out with her magic, and she seemed really grateful. Besides that, that's the short story of, well, me."
Scarlett quickly silences herself and walks away. Sapphire notices and tries to catch up, to no avail.
"This is the same as when I came out. I just hope Scarlett gets through this alright." Sapphire says
"Scarlett needs support, like you did in the city." Shadow responds
"I know. But, it's where she's gonna find it."
As Scarlett goes to join the others, she bumps into Blaze.
"Scarlett, is that you?" Blaze asks
"Yep, this is Scarlett. I'll see you around." Scarlett says walking away to be stopped
"Are you alright?"
Scarlett quickly silences herself.
"Come with me, we'll talk somewhere else."
Scarlett and Blaze go to the cave top to talk.
"So, you've told Shadow and Sapphire that you're not completely human."
"Yep."
"How did they take it?"
"They seemed to take it well."
"You've got my support as well; if that means anything."
"Really?"
"Sure, there's plenty of magic around here. So, someone else having it doesn't bother me."
Scarlett freezes, not knowing how to react. Then, Blaze gives an impromptu hug to Scarlett.
"Explain yourself, cat." Scarlett says, making a joke
"I've wanted to do this for a while. That's all." Blaze responds
"Okay, if you say so."
"Didn't you need Sapphire for something?"
"Oh, yes that's what I came for."
Scarlett turns into a human and looks for Sapphire; to find her alone, standing near the waters.
"Hey, are you alright?" Scarlett asks
"I'm alright, thanks. You needed me for something, right?" Sapphire responds
"Yes, the public want you to take part in a hover board race. They didn't say who against, though."
"You're kidding."
"No, that's what they've requested. Here's your equipment, helmet, and board. Enjoy learning."
Scarlett leaves for the city, leaving Sapphire to learn hover boarding on her own. Sapphire goes to a remote area of her homeland to learn hover boarding. After around twelve hours of crashing and misjudgement, Sapphire is exhausted and in need of a break and gets off the board. After walking around, searching for a place to sleep, she goes into the cave and goes to sleep in a dark, empty cave chamber.
Morning comes and Sapphire is awakened by a sudden, loud noise. Tired and intrigued, Sapphire goes out; to find Harriot and Silver fighting.
"Hey, what gives?" Sapphire asks, tiredly
"Silver was tryna get to you; after the last time this happened, I've stopped him." Harriot responds
"How do you know about my fight with Silver?"
"I've asked around and got intel from Blaze in the end."
"Why are you stopping him from seeing me?"
"I've tried jeopardising your relationship with Shadow. I'm not gonna let someone else do the same thing."
"What makes you think I'd do that?" Silver asks
"You've done it twice before; Shadow sees you as a threat and I'm not gonna let someone like you break Shadow and Sapphire up."
"Wait, what?!"
Silver quickly storms off in Shadow's direction and Sapphire is quickly in Harriot's face.
"You weren't meant to say that!" Sapphire shouts, reaching tears
"Why?" Harriot asks
"They don't like each other, and I've been trying to prevent them both fighting. That's why you shouldn't have said it!"
"Sorry, I was unaware."
"Next time, just ask."
Sapphire rushes to Silver and Shadow, to notice a fight has broken out. Scared and stressed, her Chaos Energy makes her wings and a dark, hazy bubble appear. Sapphire soon flies up; with the hazy darkness now under her feet and herself in tears.
"Everyone, stop! I see Sapphire, flying; with darkness around her feet." Blaze warns, with Silver and Shadow not listening
"Chaos Blast!" Sapphire unexpectedly shouts
As this is shouted, a burst of Chaos Energy comes out of Sapphire's hand and hits the ground near, for the drama to stop and attention to be drawn to her. Frozen, Sapphire realises that she is overpowered with excess Chaos Energy and lands on the ground, struggling for breath. After a few swift minutes, Sapphire passes out with the Chaos Energy protecting her. Shadow freezes, not knowing what to do.
"Go to Sapphire. You're the only one that can help with this." Blaze says
Shadow goes to Sapphire, noticing the hazy bubble protecting her. Managing to post his hand through the bubble, Shadow puts his hand on Sapphire's shoulder and takes some of the excess Chaos Energy, causing Sapphire to wake up. Sapphire looks around, noticing the attention and freezes once more before bursting into tears and retreating to her city home. As she enters the city, she makes herself invisible and enters her home. She goes upstairs to her father's former bedroom and looks around, sliding down the wall and sitting on the floor. Her invisibility fades away as her tears stream down her face.
As for the others, they waste no time in going to Sapphire's city home. They all enter and look for Sapphire; for Blaze to hear sobbing from upstairs.
"I hear someone upstairs." Blaze says
"That's Sapphire. I'll go, it's partly my fault." Silver says
Silver goes upstairs and finds Sapphire in her father's former bedroom. Cautious, he approaches her.
"Hey, are you alright?" Silver asks
"Do I look alright to you?!" Sapphire responds, in anger
"I was just asking."
"Why would I be alright, if your reaction to what Harriot accidentally revealed to you was less than ideal?! Tell me!"
Silver is quickly speechless and Sapphire steps back as the Chaos Energy consumes her. She is soon in the air; with a black, thick fog forming under her feet as another Chaos Blast comes out and hits Silver. Silver is quickly on the ground, wincing in agony. After a thud, Shadow leads the group upstairs to Sapphire, to discover that her eyes are black, and the Chaos Energy has consumed her. Shadow goes to Sapphire, to be stopped by Sonic.
"Is this even safe to do?" Sonic asks
"My fiancée is under that Chaos Energy." Shadow responds
"Even so, the magic or Chaos Energy you've got is no match for Sapphire's."
"I've got to try."
Shadow goes up to Sapphire, trying to talk.
"Sapphire, stop; this isn't you!" Shadow shouts
Shadow soon looks into Sapphire's eyes, seeing the fear behind the darkness.
"I know you're scared; I can see it."
"I know you can, but I can't get out..." Sapphire's true voice speaks out
Shadow soon takes Sapphire's hand, mouthing a magic chant; for Sapphire to follow along. After ten minutes, Shadow and Sapphire both land and the excess Chaos Energy leaves Sapphire's veins. As her wings disappear from view, Sapphire falls asleep on the floor. After this, Silver quickly recovers and aims for Sapphire, in anger; for Blaze and the others to hold him back. Sapphire soon wakes up, struggling to get up and falls at every attempt. Shadow helps Sapphire stay on two feet and tries to get out, for Silver to break free and stop them in their tracks.
"I thought you were different. You're no more different than the evil of Eggman's army!" Silver says, shooting an attack at Sapphire
Shadow deflects Silver's attack; for it to rebound and hit Blaze instead.
"I think you've done enough." Shadow says
"Sorry about this, Blaze... I didn't... Nahh!" Sapphire says
"I know you didn't want me to get hurt. I understand, but these two hedgehogs never seem to learn." Blaze responds, referring to Shadow and Silver
"I apologise as well, Blaze. This got out of hand."
"I know, Shadow. Yours and Sapphire's apologies are accepted; even though this wasn't entirely your fault."
Everyone soon focuses their gaze onto Silver. With an apology not looking likely, Sapphire make a quick, but expected decision.
"Silver... although I'd hate to do this. I can't take this any longer. So, our friendship is over, and I don't want you coming into my house again." Sapphire announces her decision
As this is said, Silver leaves and Sapphire has a desire to go home and rest.
"I want to go home..." Sapphire says
As this is said, the group go home, with Blaze joining Shadow to help Sapphire on her feet. The group get back to their homeland and go their separate ways. Sapphire is soon able to stand alone and goes to the cave chamber she slept in; to notice her boarding helmet is broken. After making some light, she gets to work on fixing her boarding helmet. After two hours, Sapphire also notices that the dust goggle element has cracked and fixes it; changing the colour so that it's more to her liking.
After some more time, the helmet is fixed and ready for use once more. An hour passes and Sapphire decides upon getting more rest before hover boarding. Sapphire goes to Shadow's shelter and sleeps there. As for Blaze, she goes into the cave and discovers an empty cave chamber with Sapphire's hover board inside. Blaze decides upon leaving the cave and going to her home. After a few hours; night falls and Sapphire is awake, going to the cave where her hover board and helmet are.
After five hours of careful judgement and dodging obstacles, Sapphire finishes her hover boarding session and calls it a night. Oblivious to what the event will bring, everyone else is making assumptions about the upcoming event.