FoxyCryptid

...and now I own a wallhanger Basket-Hilted Broadsword, may or not have to do with the fact I have a Highlander OC with one.

This was the big gift because I had talked about wanting to get into archery: I also got a couple shirts and some headlamps my Stepdad thought I could use for night-fishing next year.

Something I wrote quickly over the last couple days, it's sort of a prequel that takes place long before Revelations during the first Christmas Tails knew Sonic ------------------------------------------------ A blanket of snow coated the countryside and blanketed roof, window sills, and porches of a house on the edge of town a few miles from station square. It was a chilly christmas morning and several mobians were warm and safe inside just getting ready to celebrate. This house was home to Melinda Prower and her adopted son, Miles, and several of their friends had spent Christmas Eve there to help prepare for morning. “I should install a fireplace, that’s a project for next year” Melinda looked took a drink of her coco and looked up at the Christmas tree that her and Miles decorated every year. It was artificial and not the real thing like she had used for so many years before, but she had admit it played the part well enough and saved time rushing to find a real evergreen every year. Colorful lights, strings of tinsel garland in bright reds, golds, and silvers and an assortment of ornaments brought it to life and the old gold star on top brought it to life. Of course it had special touches from both of them like some aviation themed decorations and even some bulb-shaped tins depicting Miles favorite cartoon and comic book characters that once contained candy. Those had been stocking stuffers she got him over the years. There was even a few bulbs with the unmistakable paw-prints of a feral wolf Miles had picked because they reminded him of his Uncle Kai It was a yearly tradition, and usually a quiet one with just Miles, Kai, and her. How lonely it could be for such a small “family” had not escaped her but in the end she was thankful for both her adopted son, and Kai who was not only her protege but as close to being her son as another immortal could be. This year was different though, it had been a whirlwind of confusion since Miles met Sonic and this the first year celebrating with not only him but Amy Rose, Sonic’s every present fangirl that Melinda had quickly befriended to keep her out of trouble. For once it was starting to feel like one big family crowded around the tree and she couldn’t help but swallow back a happy tear. “Wow mom, thanks,” Miles finished pulling the wrapping paper off a chemistry kit and laid it next to a large carrying case of tools before throwing his arms around her. “You’re welcome, honey.” Melinda hugged the kit back. “Uncle Kai helped me find some stuff for you, to,” Miles quickly pulled away and fished out two gifts wrapped in blue foil paper. She quickly unwrapped the first, a bundle obviously containing clothing of some kind and pulled out a dark blue sweater with unusual pink flowers on it she instantly recognized as thistles. “I read a book once said it’s the national flower of Scotland, where you came from,” Miles said. “I didn’t know you were Scottish,” Amy said. “My family left when I was a little girl,” Melinda lied, “I do miss it sometimes.” “I bet it was beautiful,” Amy smiled and took a drink of her own coco. “Especially the Highlands,” Melinda quickly slipped the sweater on over her T-Shirt, “How does is look?” “Open the other one!” Miles said happily. “Give me a minute,” Melinda turned the gift over in her hands, it was roughly the same shape as a 8mm cassette but larger and lighter. She idly picked at the wrapping paper and eventually worked on end free before peeling it off. Inside was a black box she recognized as being from a company that made high-quality leather goods. Slipping off the lid and looking inside she found a light-blue wallet with a clearly Scottish inspired design embossed on the front and dyed a darker blue. “I thought you could actually use one instead the rubber band,” Miles said. “Uh, do I even want to ask?” Sonic asked “Well, um,” Melinda chucked and sheepishly reached into her puck, pulling out a pile a of cards and and money with a rubber band wrapped them, “I sort of lost my wallet and getting another one slipped my mind.” “At least you don’t just tuck things in your socks like Sonic,” Amy playfully shoved Sonic. “I don’t wear pants, so where else could it go?” Sonic asked. Amy merely rolled her eyes and reached under the tree to pull out a Gift wrapped in pink, “this is from both of us, I picked yours and there’s one Sonic picked out for Tails,” “Thanks Amy,” Melinda took the somewhat long, flat, and narrow box and looked it over. “Here, bro,” Sonic pulled out a box wrapped in a blue that matched his fur and handed it to Miles. Miles shredded the paper of the box and his face lit up when saw what was inside: a kit to build a remote control plane. “Thanks, Sonic!” Miles jumped and up and hugged Sonic, nearly knocking him over. Melinda chuckled as she noticed Sonic blushing and Amy smiling like she had just been handed a puppy. “I guess you found one, after all,” Melinda finally said before turning her attention back to. the small box on her lap, wondering what was inside. “Well, open it already,” Sonic said, still awkwardly half-hugging Miles back. The paper came off quickly and Melinda eyed the logo of a local Jewelry shop on the corner of the box. She gently removed the lid and smiled at the necklace inside, a blue stone in a silver fitting and mounted on a simple chain. “I did remember you’re favorite color was blue,” Amy said. “Thank you, Amy,” Melinda carefully brushed her hair out the way and fastened the necklace around her neck, “ Miles and I also got some stuff for you guys” Miles quickly let go of Sonic and fished out both their gifts from under the tree, handing them to the hedgehogs. “Thanks, guys,” Amy quickly unwrapped the box and pulled out a pink bottle of perfume, along with a pair of rose-shaped earrings, “I love it, it’s my favorite scent.” “Open yours, Sonic,” Miles said excitedly. “Okay, bro,” Sonic tore into his own gift and pulled a pair of shoes from the box, eying them curiously. “They’re fire-proof so the friction when you run won’t catch them on fire, and I found toughest pair I could find before I treated them,” Miles said. “How did you-” Sonic started to ask. “I told he was smart for his age,” Melinda grinned, “He managed to mix up some fire-retardant treatment for clothing that works better than anything else I’ve ever seen.” “Wait a go,” Sonic ruffed Miles head-fur and laughed, “I love it.” “Miles, you still have my gift to open,” Kai finally spoke up. “I got you something to, Uncle Kai,” Miles said as he turned around and reached behind the tree to pull out a flat box wrapped in black paper with silver paw-prints. Kai pulled out a somewhat long and slim box form the other side and swapped it with the one Miles was holding. “Open it, Uncle Kai,” Miles insisted. Kai carefully removed the paper and revealed a cheap display frame with several old arrow and axe-heads made of different materials, eyeing it curiously before a look of realization came over his face. “I saw them in a shop and recognized the markings you showed me, that uh..” Miles went silent for a moment, “you said your ancestor had a habit of putting on things he made and I thought you would like them.” “I can’t believe I missed that, I thought he just bought them because they were real wolf-pack from and might be sentimental. I didn’t realize they were actually something that Kai made and lost track of,” Melinda smiled with pride Kai smiled and sat the case aside before sitting down and hugging Miles and whispering something in his ear that got a small giggle out of the kit before the two separated and Miles opened his own gift. Miles smiled when he pulled a small fishing pole just his size out of the box and examined it “Now you will have one of your own next time we go camping,” Kai said. “Thanks, Uncle Kai,” Miles said before once again hugging him. The room was silent with all eyes watching the scene until Amy cleared her throat and and everyone turned to her. “One last thing,” Amy gave a sly smile and turned to Sonic, “I got you something.” “Amy, I really don’t like it when you look at me like that.” Sonic inched back a bit, worry spreading across his face. Melinda tried to suppress a laugh and watched as Amy pulled a sprig of mistletoe out of her coat pocket and held high over Sonic’s head. “Come on, Sonic. You know what this means,” Amy said, motioning with her finger for him to come closer. “You know I appreciate the offer, but maybe next year, or maybe in another decade, or better yet: next century,” Sonic said, backing away even more. “Come on, just one kiss,” Amy pleaded as she put on a huge pair of puppy-dog eyes. “Come on, blue-boy, it’s not like one kiss is going to hurt,” Melinda teased. “Yeah, isn’t the hero supposed to kiss the girl?” Miles asked. “Okay, okay,” Sonic rubbed his head and signed, “One kiss.” “Come here,” Amy closed her eyes and leaned in. Sonic quickly leaned in and pecked her on the cheek before hurrying over and standing next to Miles. “That’s not...” Amy groaned, “I guess I’ll take anything” Melinda finally broke down laughing when he she heard even Kai stifling a chuckle and it started a chain-reaction that sent the whole room into hysterics, even Amy. “I had forgotten what this feels like,” Melinda thought to herself as she wiped a tear from her eye.

Funnily enough, I've actually had had a couple women tell me their jealous of my hair and how easily it was yo grow (I basically just stopped cutting it a few years ago when I started to like the looks of how it was growing after a couple months of not dealing with it) and just the other day I was carrying a Christmas wreath around and the cashier said I looked like Jesus.

My eyes are Hazel but have that thing with the gold rings (kind of like what you see in someone of Middle-Eastern descent) in certain light. I'll have to post a pic with my hair down because it's actually pretty long (I'm 5' 4' and some of it goes nearly 3/4 down my back) Okay, excuse the bathroom being renovated behind me, the shitty picture (hard to use the back camera like you need to indoors) and bedhead but here's my hair down (spoiler because it turned out huge and I don't know the resizing code for this forum) Also, as a bonus have this awkward one where I accidentally did a Mr Bean face that I'm actually starting to find hilarious the more I look at it.

I had to go to a wedding so here's one of me sort of dressed up

Really short chapter, sort of like an opening scene. This isn't going to be a dark story like the last but I still thought this was a good transition point -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Aaaaaaaaaaaaah!” Melinda violently awoke to a scream erupting from across the hall and thrashed around trying to remove her covers, throwing herself on the floor in the process. It was unmistakably MIles’ scream and that had sent her mind into an adrenaline fueled overdrive and panicked impulse to reach him. “Miles, I’m coming!” she yelled as she fought to untangle the bedding from around her feet. Finally succeeding, she half-stood and stumbled out her door and face-first into his, forcing open the unlatched door and tumbling to the floor next to his bed. She scrambled to his side and panted as she tried to will her heart to cease its attempt to race out of her chest. Miles!? What’s wrong!? Did you have a nightmare?” she asked frantically, placing a hand on his back. “No, No. Please No” he held his head in his hands and nearly wept, convulsing with each sob that threatened to escape. “Honey, everything is going to be okay. Just tell me what’s wrong.” she slipped her arm around his shoulders “Oh geeze, you were dead and I..” he rocked and back and forth whimpered, “It was horrible and I just can’t..” “Miles, what happened?” she said softly, pulling him a little closer. He whined and shook his head. “You’ll feel better if you talk about it,” she said, “I know it’s hard but you can’t bottle it up.” “I can’t, I just don’t want to think about it anymore because it hurts” he choked, “I promise it’ll hurt less if you talk about it and let me help you,” she reached up and gently rubbed one of his ears, which seemed to calm him down. “I was just so scared and…” he took an uneasy breath, “It’s only going to get worse if you keep it all inside,” she said, “please, talk to me.” “I’ll try,” He took a deep breath, “ it was just like that night and everything was the same until I closed my eyes after…” he trailed off. “After I said goodbye,” she said quietly. “Yes, but I couldn’t hear you and him talking like what really happened. I just heard something hitting the floor and footsteps coming towards me. When they stopped next to me I heard laughing and felt something heavy and wet falling into my lap.” He froze for a moment “Oh God,” Melinda thought to herself, “I hope this isn’t going where I think it is” “I wish I hadn’t opened and my eyes, but I did. I opened them and looked down and it was...” he finally broke down sobbing. “Come here, honey,” she wrapped her arms around him and pulled him into a hug, causing him to bury his face in her chest. “It was your head,” he choked out through the tears, “he killed you and left your head laying in my lap.” “It’s okay, I’m right here and everything is okay now,” she gently cooed as she rocked him back and forth, “Everything is going to be just fine.” “I just can’t get the image out of my head because it could’ve really happened and I could’ve lost you” he took a strained breath and continued sobbing. “but it didn’t, we’re both safe at home,” she gently kissed him on the head, “You’re safe in your bedroom and I’m right here,holding you, so just try to calm down.” “Just please stay with me until I’m feeling better, I don’t want to be alone.” he choked out. “Honey, I promise I’m not going anywhere,” she slid one knee onto the bed, “Now come on, slide over a little. “Mom? What are you doing?” he gave her a confused look as she squeezed onto the twin-bed next to him and attempted to find a comfortable position , but complied with her request. “After that, I’m not leaving this room tonight” she finally managed to settle into place on top the comforter next to him. “I haven’t slept in the same bed as you for years,” he said with a sniff “isn’t this a little weird.” “I know you tend to forget, but you’re still just an eight-year old boy and I’m your mother. Anyone touched in the head enough to find it weird can put a sock in it because I still remember when entire families crammed into one bed for warmth. not to mention when I was your age and we lived in tiny one-room hovels where you walked on each other” she smirked. “I sometimes forget how old you really are,” he somewhere between laughed and yawned and rubbed some of the tears from his eyes before he slunk under the comforter and laid down,”Goodnight.” “Goodnight, Kiddo, and try to get some sleep.” she laid her arm over and coaxed him to scooth a little closer, “Feel better?” “Yeah, this is nice.,” his body was still snaking a little under her arm, but he quickly started to fall back asleep once he closed his eyes, “Thanks mom, I love you” “I love you to, and you’re welcome,” the adrenaline finally fading from her system, she closed her eyes and quickly followed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunlight streamed through the thin curtain into Melinda’s eyes, causing her to flinch and awake from her slumber. Despite the slightly cramped arrangements she had to admit she slept well, and assumed the same of Miles since there was no more screaming and he was still comfortably asleep next to her, having put his own arm around her sometime during the night. It was only a moment before she felt him stirring as well and he slowly opened his eyes. “Good morning, kiddo,” she smiled as she watched him groggily look up at her. “Morning, mom,” he removed his arm and sat up. “Did you sleep okay?” she sat up herself and shifted to the other end of the bed, sitting cross-legged across from him. “Yeah, I felt a lot better after you came in last night,” he rubbed the back of his head, “now I just feel stupid getting so worked over a bad dream.” “Try not to think way, nightmares often play off our own fears and that’s the part that hurts” “I guess it hurt so bad because I’m afraid of losing you, right?” he asked nervously “Come here,” she held out her arm and he smiled Miles smiled and crawled over, wrapping his arms around her neck and hugging her. “It’s just really hard to deal with all this, sometimes,” he said. “Sometimes when you go through things like this, it hurts for a while and takes time to heal,” she gently rubbed his back, “but having someone to talk to about it helps and I’m here, along with Kai and even Sonic. We’re gonna get through this.” “Thanks, I just feel helpless because I’ve never lost it so bad dealing with Eggman,” he said. “I know, but this was different. Isa, or Frost as he was calling himself was just utterly inhuman and he had a way of getting under people’s skin. He was also incapable of feeling anything but hatred and the twisted joy hurting others brought him.” she sighed, wrapping her arms around him even tighter. There was silence for a few moments before Miles finally spoke up. “Did it hurt?” he asked. “Did what hurt?” she asked. “You’ve explained it to me and I kind of understand how quickenings work and what happens when-,” he trailed off for a moment, “when you have to take one and I can’t imagine what seeing into the memories of someone like that was like,” “It’s never easy with someone as twisted as him because it’s well, sort of like a vivid nightmare, but you don’t have to worry about me because love is more powerful than hate, and I have plenty of that, “ she kissed him on the forehead as he pulled his head back to look at her. “I love you too, Mom,” he once again leaned in closer and hugged her tightly. “You know, there’s one other very good reason why you never had problems dealing with that crackpot of a doctor, besides you being brave that is,” Melinda said. “What’s that?” Tails asked. “He’s such a moron that none of you guys could ever lose against him, and it’s hard to be afraid of distilled stupid.” she laughed. “Mom…” he giggled.

I actually have a ton more this because I sat down and re-wrote all of Revelations from Tails' POV. I made edit up more of these scenes that are unique to his version.

I'm spoiled to using my Xbox360 gamepad on everything that isn't point and click so I can just kick back and relax instead of hunching over the keyboard.

I guess I split these into the fantastical and realistic. Fantastic Being part of a paranormal investigation team Being an Immortal (Highlander) All kinds of self-insert fanfic type stuff. Realistic Being a musician Great artist Well known fanfic writer Well known creator of gaming videos

Oh, I was just wondering what you thought of it.

? Maybe I'm tied but I didn't quite understand that.

I was actually thinking of the intro speech on a 90s TVshow or cartoon when I wrote this :b. This thing would so be a comic if I could draw. Did you get the "scene of the wreck", chapter read?

Hey, my name is Miles Prower but most of my friends call me Tails on account of my two tails. Some of you might know me as one of Mobius’ famous heroes because Sonic the Hedgehog is like my big bro and despite only being eight years old I still help him save the world from that bully Eggman along with our other friends like Amy and Knuckles. This story isn’t really about just me though, but I guess I should start but explaining my life up to this point. I was adopted as a baby and raised by my awesome mother and my Uncle Kai. I guess that’s not an unusual family situation and a lot of kids are adopted and raised my single parents and their parents friends. The unusual part is who, or rather what they are. You see, my mom was born over 1100 years ago and my Uncle Kai nearly 250 years ago (243 to be exact). Both of them are these things called immortals that don’t even know themselves how or why they exist because all immortals are orphans found under mysterious circumstances, and don’t even know what they are until they die their first death and don’t stay dead. It’s at that point they stop getting older and gain the ability to rapidly heal from any non-fatal injury like some kind of superhero (if they actually die, they just don’t stay dead). It’s why my mom barely looks older than a teenager and why Uncle Kai looks old enough to be my Dad despite being raised by her (so he’s really more like my brother, but I called him Uncle before I knew about all this and the name stuck) Ever since we let our close friends in on the secret they’ve been helping in the first against Eggman, but that’s not the only bad guy we have to deal with. The hard truth is that not all immortals are good people like them and so they both often have to fight others like themselves to protect people and protect themselves. It’s not like the mortal legal system could handle them, after all. Sometimes it makes me worried about them. It’s not all bad though, I love them both and it’s awesome having such a cool family that loves me back. Not every kid get’s to have something like a comic-book hero as a mom and I wouldn’t trade her or my Uncle Kai for anything. This is the story of our family, the good, the bad, the adventures, and even just our everyday lives to trying to live as normally as we can.

This obviously takes place right before Revelations, when Tails was called the scene of the wreck. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sirens rang in Tails ears as he stood not ten feet away from the crumpled heap that used to his mother’s car in a state of shock, trying to cope with the conflicting feelings. It like a kind of cognitive dissonance between his emotional instincts crying out at the idea she was dead in every clinical sense and what that should mean, and his rational mind reminding him that she was an immortal and thus her death was only temporary. “Hey bro, are you still with me?” His best friend’s voice partially awoke him from his shock. Even if the situation wasn’t quite as dire as everyone else was forced to assume he was once again glad Sonic had refused to leave his side from the minute he got the phone-call, and insisted on tagging along for support. “Yeah, I’m just a little shaken up, but I’ll be fine,” Tails replied, carefully choosing his words. “I know it’s hard and I know you’re scared, but I’m gonna be right here next to you the whole time and we’re going to get through this, okay?” Sonic’s voice was calm, but carried an uncurrent of nervousness. “Thanks, I know I tried to blow you off but I was just upset and I really don’t want to do this alone,” It wasn’t a lie, despite every rational thought telling him it would be okay he couldn’t will away his emotions and having his surrogate big brother there helped to calm him. “It’s no problem, I promised you I’d always be here and I’m not going to break that because things get hard,” Sonic gave a sincere smile. Tail’s noticed one of the emts out of the corner of his eye, a female cat with blue fur, as she climbed out of the ambulance and looked around before setting her attention on them and approaching. “I know it’s probably dumb I even have to ask, but your Sonic and Tails, right?” she asked, “My name is Cassie and I was the responder here.” “Nice to meet you, Cassie,” Sonic said, “to bad we have to meet like this, though.” “I know, I never like meeting new people under such horrible circumstances,” Cassie said, looking down. She didn’t stand much taller than Tails, but still crouched down in front of him and looked up at his face. “I’m sorry, honey,” she spoke sweetly in a soothing voice not unlike a mother speaking to her child, ”I know this is hard, but I need you to come with me and verify that it’s her, and collect the belongings we found on her person” “Can Sonic come with me?” Tails asked. “Of course, I’m not going to make you go in there alone,” Cassie smiled, “ready to go?” “Yes,” Tails said. Even though it couldn't have been more than a few seconds long, the walk to the ambulance felt like an eternity and he found himself closing his eyes and taking a deep breath as he climbed inside with Sonic right behind him. He felt a hand on his shoulder guiding him to what felt like a bench running along the wall and felt Sonic sit down beside him. “Just open your eyes and look when you’re ready, I won’t rush you,” he heard Cassie say from the other side of the cramped space. “Just try to relax and take your time, buddy.” Sonic spoke softly and Tails felt an arm around his shoulders. For several moments he merely kept his eyes closed and mentally reminded himself over and over that no matter he saw she would be okay and he merely had to make it through this and hold out for a few hours until she woke up, and somehow re-grouped with him. It was just like they had planned in case something like this ever happened. He finally opened his eyes and looked up, wincing when the blood streaked down her face from a gash in her forehead and soaking through the thin-sheet from he assumed was a severe wound on her chest. Sonic’s arm tightened around his shoulders and he looked up to notice him averting eyes from the stretcher. “It’s gonna be okay, bro. I’m gonna be right here and we’re going to get through this, I promise,” he said softly, “I’m not gonna leave you.” “Tails, honey. you can talk to her and say goodbye if you want. There’s nothing wrong with that,” Cassie said. Sonic helped him to his feet and he leaned over, bringing his mouth close to her ear. “I love you mom, just please wake up soon because I’m worried about what’s going to happen next and I just need to talk to you, real bad,” he whispered quietly enough to keep anyone else from hearing. “Cassie, can you give us a minute?” Sonic asked. “Of course, take as much time as you need. Her things are in this bag. “Cassie motioned to a cheap duffle-bag bearing the hospital's logo as she stood up, “and no-one is touching the car until you guys give the go-ahead so you’re welcome to take anything you need from it.” Cassie looked back at Tails one last time before stepping outside, “I’m sorry about all this, but if makes you feel any better her neck broke when it rolled, so it was quick and painless.” “Thank you,” Tails said. Cassie merely gave him a reassuring smile before stepping out and closing the door behind her. “Tails?” Sonic asked, “Turn around and look at me for a minute.” Tails took one last deep breath before removing his hand, which he had just fully realized has been resting on his mother’s shoulder, and turned to face Sonic. The expression on his brother’s face was almost alien to the kit, confusion mixed with what he could almost swear was pain. It was jarring seeing it on the face of someone was almost always boundlessly happy and carefree. “Sonic, are you okay?” he asked. “Come here, buddy.” Sonic stepped forward and wrapped his arms around Tails, hugging him tightly. “Thanks, Sonic.” Tails returned the hug, carefully avoiding Sonic’s quills as wrapped his arms around him. Even knowing she would be okay, he couldn’t deny how nervous standing right next to her clinically dead body made him and that hugging his brother was making him feel better. “Feel better?” Sonic asked as they finally broke apart. “Yeah, I think I needed that.” Tails said “You know, I’m gonna miss her to. She was a really good person and I don’t know if mission prep is ever going to be the same without her correcting us and threatening to throttle me if I let anything happen to you,” Sonic looked over Tail’s shoulder with a mournful smile, “of course I knew she’d never do it and it was just the mother in her talking,” “I think she decided the day you drug me home and promised to protect me that she could trust you,” Tails said. “I remember mistaking her for your sister and asking where your mom was,” Sonic said, “I couldn’t tell if she was insulted or flattered.” Tails watched as Sonic reached over and shifted the sheet out of the way so he could hold her hand. Sonic motioned for him to hold it as well and he complied, flinching at how cold she already was. “Hey, whenever you feel weirded at people thinking you’re my little brother, just remember that some people think your Uncle Kai is my dad even though I changed his diapers,” Melinda chucked. It was a random and irrelevant memory brought on by Sonic’s comment, but he still couldn’t help but smile as her words echoed in his head. “Something wrong, bro?” Sonic asked. “No, that just made me remember a funny joke she once told me,” Tails said, “I know it seems wrong to be smiling right now when I’m still standing next to her but I couldn’t help it.” “Hey, she wouldn’t want remembering her to hurt and I bet she’s smiling right now, too.” Sonic reached out and ruffled Tails’ hair, “Is there anything you needed to do before we go out there?” “No, I think I’m ready,” Tails slid his hand free and watched as Sonic reached over and grabbed the bag. “Is there anything you need from the car?” Sonic asked. Her sword, Tails mentally noted that it wasn’t it anywhere in the ambulance and she didn’t go anywhere without it, keeping it hidden under the back seat. He just hoped he could come up with some excuse for it because there would be no hiding something like that from Sonic. “Yeah, there actually is,” Tails said nervously. “Come on then, I’ll help you,” Sonic opened the back door and motioned for him to follow. Tails noted as they approached that the car had landed right-side up and the back door had been ripped off. It was a small relief because he knew it would be easy to fish the offending item out without drawing too much attention. A knot rose his stomach and he willed himself not to get sick when he got close enough to see the blood soaking the light-colored fabric of the driver’s seat and the dashboard. “Oh man,” Sonic muttered the words, but Tails still heard them as he leaned against the frame and looked into the back of the car. He barely noticed the sound of Sonic messing with something upfront when he saw a familiar piece of tan fabric pinned in the broken seat. Careful as not to tear it, he gently pulled the trench coat free and brushed off the dust and broken glass clinging to it. A smile crept across his face as he held it against his chest and smelled the faint odor of her perfume. It was an article of clothing that he had grown to associate closely with his mother and memories being safely nestled under and snuggled up to her flooded his mind and left him happily spaced out until Sonic got his attention. “You okay, bud?” Sonic gently nudged his shoulder, “you’ve been that way for a while, now and I was getting worried” “Yeah, I’m fine, just trying to think about happy memories,” Tails gave a weak smile. “Just wanted to make sure you we’re still with me,” Sonic reached out and offered him an object he quickly recognized as the knob off the gear-shift, “It may seem dumb, but I thought you might like to have this since you and her worked on this car together. I thought maybe you could rig it up to the Tornado for luck or something.” “Thanks,” Tails took the handle and turned it over in his hand for a moment before remembering what he was looking for, “hold on, I almost forgot something.” The inside was dark and cramped, but he felt around until his hand found a leather wrapped handle and carefully slid the sword out of the wreckage. He held it close his chest in some attempt to hide it. “Whoa,” Sonic let out a long whistle, “that looks something out of Braveheart, what was it doing in there?” “My mom studied history, remember? She liked historical weapons and this one was one of her favorites because she had Scottish blood. I remembered she had taken it with her this morning to have an expert look it over so she could learn more about it’s history,” It was a quickly made-up lie, but a simple and believable one. “I guess I know what I could’ve gotten her for Christmas this year, even if it’s a little late,” Sonic closed his eyes and shook his head, “This still all seems so surreal, like a bad dream.” “I still don’t know what to think,” Tails absent-mindedly hugged the coat even tighter. “Oh God, this is horrible!” Both boys were brought back to reality by a screaming pink hedgehog running towards them. “I heard about what happened, is it true that she’s…” Amy trailed off. “It’s true, Melinda’s gone,” Sonic said quietly. “Oh God, No,” Amy’s voice shook as she spoke and she quickly brought her hands to her mouth, “are they sure it’s her?” “Yes, Amy, it’s my mom in there,” Tails mumbled “God, I’m so sorry,” Amy sobbed and wrapped her arms around Tails so tight he thought he could feel his ribs cracking and wheezed as the breath was forced from his lungs. He was thankful he had managed to quickly move the sword out of the way “I’m gonna miss her so much,” Amy sniffed “Uh, Amy. I know this all very upsetting but Tails still needs to breathe,” Sonic said. “Oh, Sorry,” Amy tearfully let go of Tails and placed her hands on his shoulders, “please, don’t think twice about calling me if you need something or even just need to talk, okay?” “I’ll keep that in mind, Amy,” Tails said Shock, fear, and the burning urge to just scream it to everybody that she wasn’t really dead had put him on the verge of just shutting down because he could barely stand seeing how painful it was for everyone else and couldn’t even reassure himself when he had to keep playing along. “Sonic, I think I’m ready to go home,” Tails said. “Sure, buddy.” Sonic put an arm around his shoulder before turning to Amy, “Take it easy, Amy.”

Wasn't designed for it, but 9/10 illegal activities are what untraceable digital currency like Bitcoins get used for because most people working on the up-and-up are just going to get paypal, a credit card, or a pre-paid debt card for online transactions.

Likely another Slice-of-Live story since I spent so long putting the cast through hell. Also, I need to re-visit Knuckles since I just realized he's been MIA since they told Amy.

This takes place kind of at the same time as Chapter 9 of Cold as Ice. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kai sat on the altar, his eyes locked on the front of the church and his ears listening closely for even the faintest footsteps, click of the door’s handle, or creak of it’s hinges. The wait was excruciating, it had already been a couple hours since he called Melissa had called still no sign of either her or the children coming through those great doors. It was not in his nature to be cynical, but fear had began to wear at his mind and every horrible thing that could’ve gone wrong cycled through his head. Were they okay? Was one of them hurt? Was she now trapped with them? Anger began to set in and he took a deep breath, willing himself to stay calm despite the impulse to hunt down Isa himself and make the monster pay for hurting the people he considered his family. He had to calm the rage because he couldn’t abandon his post and had to be ready for anything. Whether it be just simply comforting them or treating wounds, it was his responsibility to take care of them and the fight with Isa was Melissa’s. *creak* The door began to open and his eyes locked onto the darkness at the front of the church as light from the street lamps out front began to pour in. He anticipated the worst until a nervous voice called inside. “Uncle Kai? Are you there?” “I’m right here, it’s safe.” relief washed over him as he nearly bolted halfway up the aisle and watched the two figures slink inside and make their way over. “Come on, Cream. We’ll be safe here. I promise.” Miles guided Cream up the aisle. “Are you both okay?” Kai crouched down and placed on a hand on Miles’ shoulder, glancing back at Cream, who was hiding behind him. “I think so, just a little shook-up,” Miles answered before turning to Cream, “I think you’ve meant my Uncle Kai already.” Kai smiled warmly at her as she cautiously stepped out from behind Miles and eyed him curiously. “Yes, her mother is a good friend of mine,” Kai carefully reached his hand out to her, “Is everything okay, Cream?” “Yes, I’m still a little scarred but I think I’ll be okay.” she stepped close enough or Kai to gently place his hand on her shoulder and looked up at him, “Aunt Mel says you’re like her, I heard Tails call you immortals,” “That’s correct, it’s why she sent me to protect you.” he smiled, “You trust me to do that, right?” “You’re friends with Tails and Aunt Mel, and even if you weren’t you’ve always been nice to me and my mother,” she looked down for a moment before smiling at him, “So yes, I trust you.” She stood on her toes and wrapped her arms around Kai’s neck, and he gently returned the hug. “I’ll make sure you get home safe once it’s all over and Melissa get’s here, okay?” he said quietly. Cream stepped back and looked at him with confusion, “I thought Aunt’s Mel’s was Melinda?” It dawned on him that no-one had likely had the chance to explain things more thoroughly to Cream about immortals yet. “Melissa is just what I call her because she used that name when I met her. I guess I grew accustomed to it.” he smiled. “I guess it’s like the way you’re the only ones that call Tails Miles.” she said. “Something like that,” he laughed, “maybe I can explain if there’s time tonight.” “Okay,” a look of realization and worry flashed across her face, “Cheese was with me when that bully grabbed me, is he okay?” “He’s fine, safe at home with your mother,” Kai assured her. “Thank goodness, I was afraid something happened to him,” she sighed, “at least I know he’s safe now.” “I’m sure he’ll be happy to know your safe as well,” Kai playfully rubbed her head, “but for now, why don’t we wait in the back where it’s more comfortable and maybe a bit warmer?” “That sounds nice,” Kai began to lead her towards the back office until he noticed Miles not moving and turned to face him, “Are you coming with us?” “In a minute,” he answered. “Cream, why don’t go ahead and wait for us. I want to talk to Miles for a moment,” Kai motioned towards the door to the office. “Okay,” she quickly made her way inside. Kai watched the door for a moment before turning around and crouching in front of Miles, noticing for the first time that he was clutching Melissa's coat in his arms and hugging it, “Do want to talk about it?” “I’ll be fine as soon as she makes it back,” Miles said quietly, his expression betraying that has was on the verge of tears despite his calm tone. “Miles, I know you’re afraid and upset. You don’t have to hide it from me,” he reached out and placed a hand on the kit’s shoulder. MIles’ merely looked away and held back a whine in response. “I’m worried about her as well and I thought maybe it would help if we talked about it.” Kai said, “I only want to help you make the wait less difficult.” Kai noticed Miles tearing up and gently pulled him into a hug. “I’ll be fine, I just need a minute,” Miles said, putting an arm around Kai’s back and taking a deep breath. “Don’t be ashamed. A warrior isn’t afraid to cry because tears come from love and that’s the strongest emotion you can fight for and the most worthy” “Thanks, but I think I’m okay now.” Miles sniffed. “Are you sure? If you need to let it out I’m right here.” Kai said, “It won’t make think any less of you, I promise. I just want to help you” “Yeah, I’ll be okay,” Miles broke away and stepped back, taking a deep breath, “Let’s go check on Cream.” Kai shook his head as Miles walked off and wondered how he became so stubborn and why he seemed almost afraid to open up to him. Had he accidently given the false impression that the kit had put on some display of toughness around him? Maybe he really had gotten a little distant and needed to spend more time with him. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ “Do you really live here?” Cream asked as her eyes wandered around the dusty office. “Not in this room, my bedroom is up in the attic. I only use this place as a study when I need it.” Kai pulled out the old desk chair and sat down, making sure he could see both the door and the couch where the two children sat clearly. “Is that why it’s so dusty?” Cream asked. “I guess I don’t study much,” he smiled, “Though I should to keep up with Miles when science happens.” Cream giggled and Miles managed an uneasy smile. “I guess you’re feeling better, Cream?” Kai asked. “Yes, but I’m still worried about Aunt Mel.” she looked down, “I hope she can beat him like the heroes in movies always beat the bad guy.” “She’s tougher than she looks,” Kai said, “and she did beat him once before.” “She told she saved a little boy from him,” Cream smiled, “She’s a hero just Mr Sonic.” “She is a good person, as long as I’ve known her she’s had no tolerance for bullies and always protected people,” Kai gave Miles a smile before turning back to Cream, “That’s why I always looked up to her so much.” “Aren’t you a lot older than her?” Cream looked him over with confusion. “It does seem that way, doesn’t it?” He laughed, “Tell me, how old to think we are?” “Well, you look like you’re the same age as my mother,” Cream scrunched her face, “I remember Aunt Mel’s 29th birthday, but she looks a lot younger than that. It’s hard to tell though because Foxes and Wolves are so tall and makes you look older, at least to me.” “She explained to you a little bit about Immortals, correct?” Kai asked. “Yes, she said you guys heal really fast and if you do get hurt really bad you always wake back up,” she answered. “That’s true, and it’s also true that we stop aging the first time we get badly injured, so most of us are a lot older than we look” Kai leaned back, “You were correct in a sense about me being around your mother’s age because I was 33 years old when it happened to me. That means I look like I did when I was 33 and always will.” “So how old are you?” Cream asked curiously. “I was born in 1772, so that makes me 243 years old.” He grinned. Cream looked over at Miles, who managed to smile and nod his head yes, “and Aunt Mel is even older?” “Well, the further you go back the harder it is to keep track of dates but she thinks she was 20 when she was hurt for the first time, so you’re right that she does look very young,” Kai began to explain. “I thought she looked really young for a mom, like the old pictures of my mother from High-School.” Cream said, “When was she born?” “As I said, she’s not completely sure because dates were hard to keep track of for the lower-class back then and she was the adopted daughter of a poor farmer. The closest she can get is the early 9th century,” Kai noticed the girls’ confusion, “That means sometime around the year 800, which makes her around 1,200 years old.” Cream looked back and forth between Kai and Miles, the later of which managed a nervous smile and a shrug. “That’s a really big number,” she spoke quietly after a moment, “I don’t know if I can even count that high,” she started giggling. “What’s wrong?” Kai asked. “Nothing, I just realized why Mr Sonic keeps calling her Grandma,” she smiled. “and now with Grandpa back there we have the full set.” Everyone turned to the door and noticed Sonic leaning on the doorway, grinning at Kai. “Of course, since you said Tails here is sort of like your little brother that might mean I have to start calling her great-grandma,” Sonic laughed, “It just doesn’t roll off the old tongue, though.” “So I guess that makes us all family, then?” Kai chuckled, “You and Miles are like brothers, after all.” “A hedgehog, an immortal wolf, and a two-tailed fox. If that isn’t the strangest family I’ve ever seen, “ Sonic smiled, “but I’m a little rusty at this family thing so what do I know?” Cream giggled at the exchange, attracting everyone’s attention. “What’s so funny, Cream?” Kai asked. “I guess now that everyone is friends, even Mr Sonic has a big brother to keep him out of trouble.” “As long he is doesn’t break a hip, I’m always happy to have more back-up,” Sonic grinned. “I think I’ll be fine,” Kai chuckled and shook his head, watching Sonic turn to Miles. “Hey bro, you okay?” Sonic sat down on the arm of the couch next to Miles. Kai watched as Sonic turned his full attention to the kids, smiling as he thought about how close the truth all that was. Melessa was something in-between a mother and a sister to him, Miles like his little brother despite the habitual use of the title Uncle, and he could see that Melissa was beginning to treat Sonic like a son just as much as Miles treated him like a brother. One big, strange, slightly dysfunctional family full of love.

Story time: My stepdad came home today and asked me if I wanted to go look into a pellet rifle he found someone selling for $15 because he knew I collected that sort of stuff. So I go over there expected maybe a really nice Daisy or Crossman but find this old-ass, single-pump (and it's a fairly powerful single-pump) rifle that has no markings on it but seems like something that was high-end back in it's day, so of course I bought it because I've never seen anything like it and couldn't pass it up for $15.

Let's not do this, this is a civil website and we don't need be starting threads about "lolcows" as EDiots call them.

The doors of the church creaked open and Melinda stumbled in. She grabbed one of the back pews for support and brushed her soaked hair out of her eyes. Every muscle in her body ached but that would soon pass if she gave herself a few minutes to rest. “Melessia, are you okay?” Kai emerged from the back of the church and hurried across the hall to her side. “Where are the kids?” She asked as he put an arm around her and helped guide her towards the back. “In the office, I thought it would be safer than sitting out here in the main hall.” Kai said. “Are then okay?” she asked. “Yes,” he answered, “but are you okay? Is Isa...” “I’ll fine, and yes. It’s finally over. Well, almost. There’s one last thing I need to do before I go home but I wanted to spend a few minutes with them first so they know I’m okay,” she smiled. “I’m sure everyone will be happy to see you,” Kai said. “Everyone?” she asked. “Sonic showed up a while ago to check on everyone when he found out, he’s just been pacing the floor waiting for you,” Kai answered. “At least I get a welcoming party, huh?” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ “Mom!?” Miles almost jumped off the couch in excitement “Aunt Mel!?” Cream asked excitedly. Melinda made her way over to the couch and the two kids slid apart for her to sit down between them. “You two okay?” Melinda put an arm around each of them and pulled them close, smiling when she looked down and noticed MIles still clutching her coat. “Mr Kai and Mr Sonic we’re here, so I wasn’t scarred,” Cream said. “I’m glad,” Melinda turned to Miles, “Aren’t going to say something?” “I’m fine, I just need a minute.” he had closed his eyes and buried his face in her side, “are you okay?” “I’m fine, just a little sore and in need a warm shower,” she said. “Shouldn’t you know by now old people like you shouldn’t be straining themselves?” Sonic finally spoke from across the room with a laugh. “What’s that? I can’t hear you clear down there?” she chuckled, “You might have to stand on something.” “Maybe you just forgot your hearing aids, Grandma? Do you need to borrow some from Grandpa over there?” Sonic teased, motioning towards Kai. It was at that point that the entire room finally erupted in laughter, relieved at a normal moment. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Melinda stood staring at the gravestone, smiling despite the tears streaming down her face.. The name read Maxwell Blake and the date reflected a long life, 1807-1880. Next to this was a stone bearing the name Violet Blake that read 1805-1875. In the center of the connected stones was the year 1823 when they married. To anyone else this stone was just a reminder of the past, but her it was yet another life she had nurtured and watched bloom. She was there from that terrible night in the warehouse, holding him her arms and stayed with him as a mother figure from that day on. When his first child was stillborn there came a moment they were alone and away from judgement, and he broke down in her arms once again. He had spent too long trying to be strong for Violet and couldn’t lock it all away anymore. She remembered him hugging her with joy and telling her she had become a grandma when Violet gave birth to his second son, and despite being a naturally smaller species and peaking at barely 3’ 10’, he still almost managed to lift her off the floor. It was times like the moment that followed, holding what she considered to be her grandson that she felt one of the greatest gifts of being immortal. So much to think about in one moment, an entire lifetime flashing through her mind. Joy, sorrow, pleasure, pain, life and death. Emotions somehow simultaneously both conflicting, yet somehow still accentuating one another via the contrast. “It’s always bittersweet, isn’t?” The voice coupled with the familiar tingling and static in the air pulled her from her daydream. “Yes, but it’s hard to describe even after all these centuries. The pain of losing them cuts so deep, but at the same time you feel such happiness thinking back on the lifetime spent together. It’s almost like a warm blanket shielding you from cold or a beacon in the dark,” She took a deep breath and looked up at the night sky. “You know, some believe that the the spirit world is somewhere out there in the heavens, and that each and every worthy soul rests among the stars,” Kai smiled as her gaze met his. “Are the kids okay?” She asked. “Miles ran off with Sonic and I made sure Cream was safe at home with her mother.” Kai replied. “I’m surprised you’re not there with them,” Melinda said with a grin. “I’m only friends with Vanilla, it’s nothing serious and-” Melinda cut him off, “Come on now, I’ve known you for over 200 years. I can tell you like her,” she teased. “Nothing like that, besides I’m too old and I’m not sure I’m cut out to be a parent,” “You’d make a great father, you’re good with kids. I mean, you’ve been like the cool uncle to Miles his whole life,” Melinda said. “That’s different because, well it just is,” Kai said, starting to turn red. “Nonsense, and what do you mean too old? Unless you plan to find one of us that ship sailed about 180 years ago.” Melinda teased. “Is this what it what feels like for mortals when their mothers keep asking them for grandchildren?” Kai asked. “I dunno, ask Miles in about twenty years,” Melina chuckled. Kai merely laughed in return and shook his head. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The first thing Melinda noticed upon entering the house was Miles on the couch, reading a technical manual, her coat laid across the back of the couch next to him. “Had to wait up for me?”” she smiled.. “It’s really not that late and I couldn’t sleep, anyway” he said. “I guess it’s just been one disaster after another, huh? Kind of hard to relax after all that.” she took a seat next to him and cracked her neck. “Yeah.” he said. “You okay?” she asked. Miles stayed quiet and closed the book, placing it in his lap. “You wanna talk about it?” she asked, putting an arm around him. “Just give me a second,” she could tell he was holding back tears. “Come on, it’s okay,” she hugged him tighter and he buried his face in her side, “It’s just us now, let it out.” “I thought I’d lose you today,” he began to sob into her shirt and wrapped his arms around her, his body shaking. “I know, honey, but I’m here now and it’s going to be okay.” she spoke in the most soothing voice she could manage, “so just let everything out.” “I was just scared that I wouldn’t see you again,” he choked, “it was torture waiting for you to come through that door back at the church.” “I was afraid to, afraid of having to leave you.” tears started to flow down her face. It had finally hit her full-force that this moment may have never happened, than those moments back in the warehouse could’ve been the last time she ever got to hold her son in her arms and she could’ve been ripped away. That he could’ve been crying for her instead of with her if he even made it out it all. They cried together as she took her own advice and let it go, letting the pent-up emotions she had spent the last several hours since he was taken barely hold back wash away with her tears. Now that he was safely in her arms the time to be strong was over. After a few moments they had both calmed themselves and she noticed Miles taking a deep breath. “Feel better, now?” She asked. “Yes, I kinda wish I had listened to Uncle Kai now,” Miles sniffed. “He said you seemed to scared to talk to him,” she said. “I was afraid I might start crying in front of him, but when he saw me start tear up he hugged me and told me that a warrior isn’t afraid to cry because it’s a sign of strength. He said tears come from love and that’s the strongest thing you can fight for. I think I understand now.” “He gave me that one 200 years ago, it’s still one of the wisest things I’ve ever heard him say,” she smiled. “I guess he’s always been smart,” Miles said. “He says he learned it from me, but I sometimes I think the student has surpassed the teacher in that department,” she laughed. “Did you mean all that stuff you said, about wanting me to the last thing you saw?” Miles asked. “I meant every word. I’ve lived a long and full life and seen things most people can only dream of, and so I’m not afraid of death,” she kissed his head, The idea of leaving everyone behind is what scares me and that’s why it meant so much to me that I got one last smile out of you so I knew you’d be okay.” “Is that why you told me to close my eyes, so I could remember you the same way?” Miles asked. “Yes, and it’s why I made sure to tell you how much I loved you when I thought those were the last moments I’d spend with you. I wanted your last memory of me to be happy.” “Thank you for saving me,” Miles said, still huddled up to her. “I’ve got an idea,” she picked up the remote off the coffee table and flicked through the channels until she found an old movie they used to watch together. She then pulled down her coat off the back of the couch and covered Miles with it before placing her arm back around him, “I think we both need this tonight.” Miles merely smiled and curled back up next to her.

Kicking around an idea for a recursive AU in the Sonic X universe like I told you, as well. The idea for a big plot element is that someone that knew her on earth before she wound up in Mobius (who it is would be a big reveal) has wound with a lot of "unofficial" political power that he uses benevolently to act as sort a "big good" behind the scenes until something big enough happens that he shows himself and joins a fight personally. A lot of plotholes would be filled by him pulling strings to make things happen in favor of the heroes and keep everyone off their asses as best he can without raising suspicion .