Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

He could feel the Chaos around him and the foreign energy of the vortex that he was falling through. The two forces intertwined in a dance of erraticism, a delicate flurry.

And yet Sonic the Hedgehog just smiled as he was swallowed whole, he was no stranger to chaos, he was a vessel of chaos after all. And the foreign energy was all but familiar to him also, unlike the pure untainted power of chaos, it was a warm embrace. He was falling through a paradox, one he knew the answer to.

He was going to see her again.

Perhaps he shouldn’t have been as happy as he was as he joyfully hollered into the abyss of swirling colours. Whenever this happened, it was the tolling of a bell, to signify the end of a world, a dimension or a whole universe.

But he was always beckoned there to stop it.

The only problem with the summon was the –

POUMF!

At least he made sure to keep his eyes closed this time around, but alas, the pain of falling face first into the ground never goes away.

The aching subsided as he remembered his mission and he pressed his hands into the sand, outstretched and flipped himself up with ease.

“You would think this would get easier each time.” He grumbled to himself as he held his head sideways to pat out the remaining granules of sand out of his ear.

Finding his bearings, the blue hero looked around to see a view he would never get tired of.

“Ah whale Point, where the sea is low and the sun is bright! It’s been a while, nice to know it’s still the same.”

He took a moment to take in the sea air as he gazed off into the horizon at the many island surrounding southern island.

“Maybe one day I could take a vacation here without two worlds at stake.”

The sun was high and the skies ever blue. It was the upside of interdimensional travel, there was beauty in every corner of the multiverse.

Sonic gave one last breath before stretching his legs.

“right, let’s see if I remember the way to windmill village.”
He grinned as he took off at super sonic speed, creating a large fog of sand and rustling the luscious palm trees surrounding him.

He most certainly did not remember the way, but the speedster wasn’t about to say no to taking multiple laps of the island.

After zigzagging at every possible inch he could, he found himself at a tent by a small harbour. Or at least there was a tent before the force of his speed sent it flying off.

Sonic gave a sheepish smile as he skidded to a halt. Beneath the tent revealed a koala girl fashioning a familiar yellow sunhat, eyes shrunk in shock. She stared at the intruder.

Throwing his hands up in his surrender, he flashed the best apologetic grin he could.

“Sorry about the tent, didn’t mean to send that flying. Do you want me to get it back for you?”

Lifting up a shaky finger at the blue pincushion, the koala girl mustered her courage.

“Y-y....you-”

With that, Sonic blasted off in the direction of the tent and brought it back, neatly folded in his arms.

“Here you go, sorry again, I’ve not been around here for a while, I didn’t think people camped here.”

“You’re Sonic!” she finally exclaimed, taken even further aback by his sudden disappearance and return.

He chuckled, bringing his finger underneath his nose.

“The one and only! I take it you’re with the Coconut Crew? What’s your name?”

“i- I’m Tabitha, but I’m not with the Coconut Crew, they haven’t been around in a long time.” She hesitantly pulled back her arm and looked to her side, before instantly looking back.

“You’re Sonic! I- I can’t believe you’re real!”
Sonic was a bit taken back, but he put out his hand regardless.

“Pleased to meetcha, Tabitha! I assure you, I’m as real as possible last I checked.”

Tabitha warily took his hand and shook.

“Th...the pleasure is all mine, Mr Sonic.”
He smiled warmly in return, thinking back to a little bunny who was just as polite as her.

“Now, what do you mean there’s no Coconut Crew? Did they disband?”

The Koala girl looked down for a brief moment.

“Uncle Gardon is at the royal palace, he keeps everyone there safe. Everyone else went on their own adventures and papa... Papa passed away.”

Tabitha voice croaked a little bit.

Ah geez. Sonic bit his lip.

“I’m sorry kid, I didn’t mean to-”

Tabitha perked up, resolve in her beady eyes.

“Don’t be, Papa lived a good life! He found many treasures and-and he gave me every treasure he found! He’s in a better place now.”

Sonic looked at the little Joey. She couldn’t have been older than 10. Was she living alone? He opened his mouth but before he could say anything, Tabitha started up again.

“Papa told me about you. You were faster than the wind and fought side by side with Queen Blaze! That must’ve been amazing!”

Queen Blaze? Sounds like she got a promotion. He inwardly smiled as he imagined her in regal attire. She would’ve set ablaze anything too pompous.

“Yeah that’s actually why I’m here. Where can I find her?”
She looked at him incredulously.

“Queen Blaze lives in the royal palace, everybody knows that.”

“aha I’m really not from around here. Could you point me in the right direction?”

From underneath her hat, she pulled out a tattered roll of paper and unfurled it. It showed many islands, Southern Island situated right in the centre.

“if you head south from the harbour, you should reach the kingdoms mainland in about a week, but I’m afraid we have no boats to lend you.”

Sonic chuckled and looked out behind him at the ocean. Perhaps a few years ago, he might’ve needed a boat but now...

“I’ll reach it in minutes, no sweat. Thanks kid.”

“n-no way! How!?” she exclaimed in disbelief.

“i’ll let you in on a lil’ secret.” He winked at the young girl. “The wind has nothing on me.” Sonic rustled the top her hat and gave a thumbs up. “Thanks for your help Tabs, i owe ya!”

Before Tabitha could say anything, Sonic was gone and all she could see was the large waves of the ocean left by the blue hedgehog.

He was really running on the sea.

“wow papa,” she gasped, stars in her eyes. “you were right!”

Sonic was speeding along the ocean, the sound of his feet making nothing more than a pitter-patter. Something didn’t make sense, he mused. Just how long has it been?
It had only been about five years since he had visited this place. But now the coconut crew are gone and one of them has passed away? Was he brought here too late? What had happened?

Sonic made his way across the stretch of clear blue seas, taking in the sights as he was lost in his thoughts. There weren’t any signs of destruction, no mechanical monster tormenting any of the islands. It was just as serene as he had left it.

But he knew all that mattered was seeing Blaze. Maybe then he would have an answer.

Blaze.

He was certainly ecstatic at the prospect of seeing her again. It didn’t matter what was happening at the time, it was always a joy to see her. Despite her abilities, she was possibly one of the coolest people he had met. Able to keep a level head and still pull off sick manoeuvres at high speed. She was someone who could keep up with him and that was always fascinating.

He always wanted to know more about her, talk to her. Times never called for it, but he was enamoured by her. The way she could hold the complete destructive power of flames and turn it into something so beautiful...cool, he meant. Yeah, cool.

She was the coolest.

It wasn’t too long until he found a large island over the horizon. It was sparkling, shimmering in the sunlight. He could already see the pillars of the purple palace, it was like something out of an animated Snisney Movie he had seen with Tails.

The palace overlooked a large city, it must’ve been about the size of Westopolis, but much less modern. He wished he had more time for sightseeing, he wouldn’t mind going for a jog around and checking out all the shops.

‘I wonder if they have chilli dogs here?’ He thought to himself. He’ll have to ask his Highness after the big butt whooping.

“alright, Final stretch, let’s go!” and sped off faster towards the harbour.

Chapter Text

A young cat walked down the cobbled street with a basket of baked delicacies. It had been a stressful day, bags under his eyes and ears flattened, however he held a warm smile, fuelled by the wafting smells of his desserts. He was just on his way home, with plans of sitting on his balcony, and enjoying the sunset with his sweet treats.

And then he was knocked on his backside by a blue torpedo shooting past.

Laying on the hard ground, his eyes opened to see his rolls take flight. He sighed, this was just what he needed.

Defeated, he stayed there and just waited for them to fall on his face. Instead of a face full of buns, they seemed to disappear one by one. He couldn’t quite make out what was happening, the sun making it difficult to focus.

Great, now the birds are against him. What a day this was.

All of a sudden he was facing upright, staring at a blue hedgehog jogging on the spot. At least he thought he was jogging, his legs were shockingly blurry. In his hands he held a familiar basket, filled with his desserts. The hedgehog smiled at him.

“Sorry about knocking you down dude, but hey, at least I saved your buns!” he handed back the basket. He reached into the back of his head and flicked something else into the basket. It was a ring.

“for the trouble. Sorry again!” and just like that he was gone again. What the Sol was that?

The cat continued walking back to his home before he was startled again.

“Hey quick question!” the blue hedgehog returned right in front of him. At least he held onto his basket this time.

“which way is it to the palace?”

He paused for a moment, just trying to process the creature in front of him. He quickly decided that would definitely take too long and so he pointed down an alley way which led to what looked like a town square.

“Thanks bud, you’re a life saver!” the blue creature winked at him and blasted off once again.

The cat watched him go and smiled to himself. Maybe today wasn’t that bad, at least it was interesting.

Sonic shot into the town square, quickly finding a map situated in the centre.

Skidding to a halt, he stopped right in front of it. He heard gasps and murmurs as he made his sudden entrance, but paid them no mind.

He pulled a face.

“Purrina avenue? I crossed that like two times, I just had to take a left?” he smiled to himself. “welp, third time’s the charm!”

Honestly it was a shock that he missed it. Arriving at Purrina avenue, he was greeted by great golden arches, leading to a large stone bridge.

Making his way over the bridge, he whistled to himself at the utter size of what lay ahead of him. He hadn’t seen anything like this before, great looming pillars and towers shining in the sun. He had seen his fair share of royal architecture, but nothing compared to this.

“Wow, looks like she’s got it made.” He snickered. “hopefully it’s not turned her into a sour puss.”

Sonic reached the entrance and was instantly met by spears in his face. Two koalas held him on the point, stern faces shared between them.

“State your name and business.”

Sonic simply gave a toothy grin. If spears worked on a creature almost entirely made of them, robotnik might’ve actually bested him. At least these guys were trying.

Waving his arms around before arching his body forward into an intricate bow, Sonic closed his eyes and put on his best impersonation of a formal voice.

“Sir Sonic The Hedgehog, here to seek an audience with Queen Blaze.”

The spears were dropped in a near instant.

The two Koala guards shared a glance at each other before looking back at the blue idiot.

“So the stories were true... I will go make sure her Royal Highness is available. Please wait here, Sir Knight of the Wind.”

Both saluted before one marched off into the palace. The other looked at the blue hedgehog, his stern face replaced by a look of awe.

“Knight of the Wind? I didn’t think I’d hear that again. Definitely not from here at that.” Sonic put his hand to his chin.

The remaining guard spoke up.

“Sire, if I may...Her Royal Highness spoke greatly of you, in fact, the moment of the coronation, her first decree was to have you knighted. We’ve heard many stories of you, but we honestly thought that’s all they were.” He smiled sheepishly. “It was all a bit hard to believe, especially with a knighting of someone we’ve never seen before. I-its an honour sir.” The guard bowed.

Sonic could feel a slight sweat drop and gave an exasperated smile.

“at ease soldier, just call me Sonic. And I don’t blame ya, you wouldn’t believe some of the things Blaze and I have done.” His smile faltered slightly. “I am surprised that she hasn’t just teleported her yet though.”

The guard stared at him, wide eyed.

“i’m sorry, sire?”

“Well you know, like FWOOOSH.” Sonic gave a flourish of his hands. “She has a knack for some really badass entrances.”

The guard looked back at the palace entrance and back at Sonic, renewed awe in his eyes. “So she can really do that? The...” he mocked Sonic’s hand flourishes.

He couldn’t help a chuckle.

“Oh big time. It’s amazing what she can do honestly.” He out his hands to his hips and looked up at the palace. He smiled as he reminisced. It’ll be great to see her again.

A few minutes passed and Sonic was getting antsy. What was taking her so long? Must be procedure, right?

As if on key, the second guard returned and Sonic looked up expectantly...still no Blaze?

“Her majesty is ready, please follow me.”

Sonic furrowed his brow. “she’s not meeting us out here?”

“Her majesty is currently indisposed at the moment, you shall be escorted to her royal bedchamber.”

Sonics ears flopped. “she’s unwell? I hope she’s alright...well, lead the way cap’n.”

The guard didn’t say anything, merely nodded. Did he look a little...sad?

The inside was like a paradox. Somehow it looked bigger than the outside, it was truly impressive. Tapestry fell from the seemingly impossible heights of the ceiling. They were adorned with intricate stitching, detailing what looked like the seven emeralds of her dimension, with fire lacing the borders. In the centre of the tapestry, he noticed a staff with several jewels encrusted into it.

As they walked past, something else caught his eye. A large portrait hung from the wall, it looked as though it was set in a cavern with a river of lava.

And there he was. Shining in a golden light, and his trademark smirk. They got every detail right. Below on the frame was an engraved plate.

‘To all of this Kingdom, forever remember the bravery of our Knight of The Wind.”

“woah...” was all he could muster. It was surreal. Did Blaze really do this? He stood there for a moment taking it all in. Was this her way of giving thanks? This was...unbelievable.

“Please move along, sire. Her Majesty doesn’t have a lot of time.”

Sonic shook his head.

“Yeah you’re right, it must be busy being a queen. Let’s go.”
They took many flights of stairs and Sonic inwardly groaned. Stairs were no problem if he were running, but chaos. This was pain.

Seemingly aware of Sonic's inner turmoil, the little koala leading him opened up. “Not too long now Sire. The royal bedchambers are just past this flight and down the hall on the left.”
That was probably a bad move as the guard felt a wind rush past him.

“ ‘Kay, thanks, bye! I can take it from here!” Sonic called as he ran past.

“Wait, Sire!” but alas he was too late. The hedgehog was gone. Perhaps he should’ve read the stories more carefully, he thought to himself.

Sonic darted, smile plastered across his face, finally, Blaze better be ready. Following the directions, he found him self at the end of the hallway. He braced himself as he wondered how he was going to enter, always wanting to make a spectacle.

“I’ll need to make sure I don’t surprise her too much, I don’t wanna get burned.” He chuckled to as he unconsciously patted his spines, ensuring they were neat and straight.

He pulled the cuffs on his gloves and tightened said gloves around his hand. Gotta look your best for royalty after all. The fact that it was Blaze had nothing to do with it at all.
He knocked on the door.

“Room service!” he called out in a falsetto voice, before casually opening up the door and stepping inside.

“Did someone call for a super speedy he....” he mouth stayed agape as he entered and saw who he was looking for. At least he thought it was.

She lay in a large bed, the covers a deep purple and yellow linin curtains draped from each bed post.

She wore a mauve satin gown, but still wore the shining yellow necklace around her neck. Her hair was much longer than before, sitting behind her head untied.

What caught him off guard, what filled him with worry was the oxygen mask that lay in her muzzle. He could hear the beside hissing on each breath. Sonics mouth went dry.

She looked much older, seeming like an elderly woman instead of the young teen he knew her as.

This wasn’t Blaze.

This couldn’t be Blaze.

“...Sonic?...”

He didn’t respond right away. He struggled to process.

“...is that you Sonic...?”

He swallowed and tried a light smile.

“Hey Blaze.” He took a few steps closer.

“please...” she took a deep breath. “...come sit.”

Her hand lifted up off the bed from where it lay, she patted the spot next to her, though it was clearly a struggle.

Sonic apprehensively walked around the bed to the spot she patted. Questions brewing, worry at the tip of his tongue.

“....long time....no see, hedgehog.”

He stifled a small laugh at her use of his favourite line.
“You could say that again.”

“ I’d rather not.” She gave a slow chuckle. “I’m...afraid that’ll take up too much energy...” Sonic’s light smiled faltered almost immediately.

“I...” he started. “w-what happened, Blaze?”
“could you...just...” her eyes darted down to her mask. Sonic had realised they were no longer the vibrant yellow they used to be, but in its stead laid clear age and experience.

Sonic nodded and cautiously grabbed for the mask to pull it down. Blaze breathed in heavily.

“thank you Sonic.... I’m glad you’re here.”
She smiled warmly at him. “as you can see...it’s been a while. I didn’t want you to see me like this....but I’m overjoyed to see you. You’re still as handsome...as I remember you.”

Sonic flushed for a brief moment. “it- it’s good to see you too Blaze.”

“I know...you’re startled. This wasn’t...what you were expecting.” She looked down. “our dimensions....they live in different space....and different time... as it turns out...”

“i’m sorry Blaze, I would’ve visited sooner. I-i should’ve...”

“Its okay, Sonic. I’ve lived a...a good life...thanks to you.” Her eyes met his and Sonic realised he was wrong. Her eyes still shone beautifully.

“There was nothing....you could do.....but...I must ask...what brings you here...?”

The blue hedgehog swallowed cleared his throat. “The emeralds brought me here. Our world’s could be in danger.”

The royal lavender cat laughed. “nonsense...this world has lived in peace...for decades now.”

Sonic looked at her with shock. “really? No Eggman Nega or Robo pirates?”

She shook her head with a smile. “they’re all gone...pirates destroyed...and Nega...? I’m glad to say...I outlived that tyrant...”

Sonic took a moment to think. Was there really no threat here? Then why...?

“I’ve missed you, Sonic.” His heart sank.

“I’m sorry to keep you waiting, Blaze. Truly.” He gingerly held the hand that lay on the bed and felt it tighten around his.

“You’re here now....it was worth the wait.”

“Blaze...your hands, they’re- they’re cold...”

Sonic’s sniffed. He could feel the salty sting in his eyes.

“I know...my time... is almost up...”

And there it was.

This wasn’t how it was supposed to go. They were supposed to see each other, save the universe, like usual. Not this.

“wipe those tears, Sonic. You’ve given me... so much...I am at peace...”

He gripped her hand tighter.

“I-i’m not ready...”

“would you....believe that I have friends? A life time of friends...all thanks to you...”

“Blaze...”

“and I’m an aunty...to...some energetic raccoons you might...recognise.”

He chuckled between his sniffs. He wouldn’t cry. Sonic doesn’t cry.

“I wish I could’ve been here more...I wish we had more time.”

Blaze smiled, slowly closing her eyes. “I will see you again,
Sonic the Hedgehog...perhaps not in this lifetime...but we will meet again....where we will have nothing but time.”

Sonic shifted, placed his other hand, atop her own. He wasn’t ready to let go of her just yet. Not this soon.

“thank you...my Knight of the Wind.”

“Blaze? Please...don’t go...” a tear finally escaped as Sonic clamped his eyes shut.

He didn’t let go. He didn’t know if he could. He didn’t want to find out.

And then he was ripped away, just as she was. He felt himself lift off the bed, but he still clung on, eyes squeezed shut as tears dropped into both of their hands.

He could feel their hands part, and there was nothing he could do about it. No matter how much he held on, he wouldn’t be able to stay. It wouldn’t let him.

And just like how he arrived, he was falling through an abyss of chaos. No hollers of joy to fill the empty space, no smile that displaced the entropy around him, only the tears that fell.

'Whenever this happened, it was the tolling of a bell, to signify the end of a world, a dimension or a whole universe.

But he was always beckoned there to stop it.'

His thoughts took him back to the last time he was in her world. The last time they said goodbye.

‘Tails: ‘Doesn’t it seem like the Emeralds are trying to help us?

Sonic: the Chaos Emeralds...?

Blaze: ...and the Sol Emeralds?

Tails: Yeah. If they weren’t, I don’t think they’d be nearly as stable as they are. It’s almost as if they WANT to be used to do this

Sonic: Trying to help us... Huh...

Blaze: Hmph.

Tails: I’m going to get us ready to launch soon, Sonic.

Sonic: Thanks, Tails. By the way, Blaze, what happened to the scepter?

Blaze: Ah, yes, the Jeweled Scepter. It’s been returned to its altar, under even heavier guard than before. It’s safe.

Sonic: Oh, good. That’s a relief.

Blaze: Sonic...

Sonic: Huh?

Blaze: Do you think that maybe you were brought here for a reason?

Sonic: Brought here? By who?

Blaze: By the Emeralds'

Through his tears, sonic smiled, just ever so slightly.

“heh...well you never know.”