Chapters Sonic and the Black Knight - The After Years: Rise of Darkness
The next day in the infirmary Nimue returned to the group in the waiting room. “There awake now if you would like to see them.” She offered them.
They nodded and followed her into the room where they found the two hedgehogs lying down on the beds wrapped in bandages. “Wow. Those guy’s sure did a number on you two.” Gawain slightly joked.
Lancelot scoffed at his joke. “They weren't any ordinary Knights of the Underworld.” Lancelot replied angrily. “They-they were…” Lancelot Hesitated.
Sonic leaned in to listen. “What?” He asked.
“I think it’s better if we start from the beginning.” Lancelot claimed.
*Flashback*
I was running through the forest leading to Misty Lake. It didn't take long till the encampment was in sight so I charged through some Knights that were guarding the gate. I then pulled out my sword and slashed the gate in half. The knight’s that were inside charged at me , not knowing there destined fate.
I stopped and charged up a few of my Chaos Spears in each of my hands. Once I had four in each, I quickly throw them and they all connected with a knight and exploded killing any other Knights in the vicinity of the blasts. I continued to traverse through the camp killing any Knights in the area, until I found their leader. He was a much larger knight who was wearing Golden armor. He may have looked intimidating, but compared to me he was nothing.
I killed him like all the others, but something caught my eye. There was a scroll next to him that fell out of his pocket. I was curious so I picked it up and opened it. I found that this was an order from one of his commanding officers ordering them to pack up and retreat as soon as they could. It had the location of their base as well as a signature that spelled ‘D.L. and D.G’. At the time I took no concern for the names and decided to confront these two thinking I could cause a big hit in their plans, so I rushed off to a place called ‘The Damned Isle’.
“I've heard of that place in legends!” Percival exclaimed. “It is said that it can be found in a in the side of a mountain just past the Deep Woods. It's supposed to be one of the most unholy of places in the land, and is haunted by the undead.” Percival finished.
Lancelot continued. When I reach the mountain side I found the cave and entered with out hesitation, but as I did I felt a slight chill down my spine which would be the unholiness of the place sinking in, but I ignored it and continued on.
After what seemed like hours of traversing through the cave I finally came to a brightly lit room. As I got closer I heard what sounded like voices so once I was at the entrance to the room I crept up against the wall and listened carefully to what they were saying. I peak into the room to get a glimpse of who was in the room. I saw two figures, one was an ordinary Knights, but the other was different. He was a hedgehog like us, but wore black and red armor over his whole body.
“Damn!” The hedgehog in armor cried and banged his right hand on his desk. “You’re telling me that Lancelot took out the WHOLE encampment single handedly?!” The knight slowly nodded in fear. “Hmph, fine get out of my sight!” He ordered which the lower classed knight obeyed. The room was silent for a minute until he spoke. “You can come out Lancelot. I know your there.”
I was shocked to say the least. I hadn't given anyway for him to detect me, no way for him to get wind of me heading here, but I stepped into the room to confront him none the less. “How did you know I was here?” I had asked curiously.
He chuckled. “Are you kidding? I could sense you coming the moment you picked up that scroll!” He then disappeared and before I could even draw my sword I felt a fist collide with my left cheek and I was flung to the wall. I felt consciousness slipping away quickly, but was still awake long enough to see him walk up to me. “Now Lancelot you will coming with me.” He said as he reached to grab me.
“N-no…” Was all I could say before everything went black.
*End Flashback*
Everyone stared at Lancelot in shock as he finished his story. “W-what happened next?” Sonic asked curiously.
“I guess it’s my turn.” Galahad said.
“Ok. Go on Galahad.” Percival said and he nodded.
*Flashback*
I had made it to the encampment and looked around. Shortly I found the leader’s body, but what interested me was that there were burn marks in the grass. I crouched down to inspect in which I noticed that they must have been from my father’s magical shoes. I noticed that they were leading down towards Deep Woods and proceeded to follow.
It took me longer to get through the Woods since I’m not nearly as fast as my father, but I made it none the less. I found the entrance to the cave and entered without hesitation. I traversed through the cavern, only having to stop to hide from some passing Knights. Minutes turned into hours as I searched and searched through the caverns, all the while the longer I stayed there the more it felt like my very soul was slowly getting corrupted by the presents of this foul place.
After hours I found myself in front of a metal door that was sealed with a lock. There was a sign next to it reading “Holding cells. Keep out unless authorized!” Knew that this must be where they were keeping father so I picked the lock with my powers and the door swung open. I peeked inside, but I couldn't believe the sight before my eyes, Father was chained up against the wall! I used my power to make a light in the room and the sight was even worse than I thought. Father had deep cut and bruises all over his body like he was being used as a training dummy. I hurried to my father’s side to release him, but after I picked the locks on his chains and began to help him up I could hear him whisper something.
“G-get out of… here G-Galahad… It’s…” Was what he whispered. At that moment the door closed and someone spoke. “Looks like you fell for our trap!” Then a bright light filled the room and a figure in dark silver armor was standing in front of the door.
I placed my father down against the wall and proceeded to attack the knight. We match blow for blow, we were evenly matched. It was like he knew every move I would make even our power were the same. After a long fight I was exhausted, but he wasn't tired at all! He was just standing back in front of the door again and stared at me with a creepy smirk. Finally I decided to ask. “Who are you?”
He chuckled for a moment and began to remove his helmet and once he did I was filled with utter shock!
*End of Flashback*
“What?! Who was he?!” Gawain asked impatiently.
“Well I found out the initials D.L and D.G meant.” Lancelot claimed.
The others looked over to him. “What?” Sonic asked.
“The Guy I fought was… myself…” Lancelot hesitated
“WHAT?!” Everyone excluding Galahad cried. “What do you mean yourself?!” Sonic exclaimed.
“That’s not all.” Galahad said. “The one I fought was… me as well.” Everyone was shocked at their words.
“It turns out that the initials stood for, Dark Lancelot (D.L), and Dark Galahad (D.G).” Lancelot explained.
“That-that’s impossible!” Gawain cried.
“But how did you guys get out of there?” Sonic asked.
“Well I knew that there was no way the two of us could beat our doppelgangers at the moment especially in the state I was in, so I grabbed Galahad by the arm and teleported us as close to the castle as possible, and you know the rest.” Lancelot explained. “But I don’t care how strong they are, my pride is at stake here! As soon as I’m heal I’m gonna show them my ultimate power!”
But then Lancelot suddenly fainted and fell back down on his pillow. “What happened?” Percival asked.
“His blood pressure was too high for his current state so he fainted.” Nimue explained. “Galahad you’d better get some rest too.”
Galahad nodded and lay back down in his bed as the others left the room.
‘Just you wait Dark, I’ll destroy you no matter what it takes.’ Lancelot promised himself as he fell asleep.
Sonic and the Black Knight - The After Years: Rise of Darkness
A few days passed since Lancelot and Galahad returned from the Damned Isle. Every day and night Lancelot would train with no end in sight. It took Nimue talking some sense into him for him to get some rest.
That same night Sonic stood at the window in his bedroom out looking the garden he was in with cream a few days ago. ‘How is it possible that there are Dark versions of Lancelot and Galahad?’ He thought. ‘This just makes me wonder what else have the KOTU been up to, and if there are other dark versions of anyone else.’ Sonic shrugged it off for the night and climbed into bed.
That same night on Mobius…
“Is it ready yet Tails?” A Pink hedgehog asked a young fox boy.
“Just about Amy.” The fox boy claimed happily as he tightened one last bolt to his machine. “Done!” he cried getting the attention of everyone else in the room. There was a red echidna who's leaning against the wall along with a black hedgehog, a Silver hedgehog who is sitting on a lounge next to a purple/lavender cat and a little rabbit girl, a bat the was trying to get the attention of the black hedgehog, and lastly a green hawk who was lying on top of his extreme gear along with a purple swallow and a grey albatross.
“You sure Tails?” The red echidna asked the Fox boy.
Tails nodded. “Sure I'm sure Knuckles.” He reassured the echidna. “With the Master Emerald hooked into the machine, it should be able to lock on to Sonic's DNA signature no matter where he may be.”
“Then what are we waiting for? Fire it up!” Amy ordered in excitement. “I want to see my Sonic again as soon as possible!”
“Yeah me too So I can give him a knuckle sandwich for disappearing for three years!” Knuckles cried while he cracked his... uh knuckles.
“Ok ok just step on the pad in the middle of the machine everyone.” Tails explained.
After everyone was on the pad Tails flipped a switch on his machine and it disappeared along with its passengers.
The next day in Camelot...
Tails and the rest of the group wandered aimlessly through the town. “Well are any of us gonna ask for direction's?” Silver asked the others.
“Don't look at me.” Knuckles declined.
Shadow just ignored him.
“Ok ok I'll go ask then!” Silver exclaimed and walked up to a passing villager. “Excuse me maim, but we're looking for a blue hedgehog. Have you see any around?”
The villager smiled happily at him. “Oh you must mean the King! You can find him in the Castle at this time of day.” The villager explained while pointing to the Castle.
Silver stood there speechless for a minute. “Uh, ok thanks.” He thanked the villager who smiled and was on her way.
Silver then made his way back to the group. “What did she say?” Shadow asked after seeing Silver's shocked expression.
“She-she said that we're talking about the king and he can be found in the castle.” Silver explained.
Now the rest of them shared Silver's shocked expression. “What? That can't be Sonic. He's not the type to rule a kingdom.” Tails claimed.
“None the less it's our only lead.” Blaze explained. Everyone agreed and headed for the castle.
Meanwhile in Camelot Castle...
“But sire I just wasn’t expecting their power. If I go now I may be able to-” Lancelot’s pleas were cut off by Sonic who was sitting atop his throne.
“No Lancelot. We don’t know what to expect yet, and even though I’m usually all for the quick approach, but we don’t know if there any more of us that have Dark version’s yet.” Sonic explained.
“But-”
“That’s my final word Lancelot!” Sonic finished.
“Yes sire.” Lancelot stood up and walked out of the room.
Sonic sighed tiredly and held his head up in his hand. “Why does he have to be so god damn-” Sonic was suddenly interrupted by a familiar cry.
“SSSSSSOOOOOOONNNNNNIIIIIICCCC!” A pink blur then burst into the room and up to Sonic.
Sonic could then feel himself being crushed by a pair of arms wrapped around him. “W-what the? A-Amy?!” Sonic cried as he realised who was hugging him.
“Oh Sonic! I missed you so much it’s been three years!” Amy then let go of Sonic and changed her smile into a frown. “Wait a minute, it’s been three years! I’m gonna kill you Sonic for disappearing for that long!” She cried as she pulled out one of her hammers.
“Whoa Amy calm down!” Tails cried as he held her back.
“Tails you’re here too?!” Sonic asked confused.
“Blacksmith, Nimue what is the meaning of this intrusion?!” Percival exclaimed at the fox and hedgehog.
“Blacksmith?” Tails asked in confusion.
“Who’s Nimue?” Amy asked the armored cat.
“It’s ok Percival; these two are my friends from my world.” Sonic explained. “But guy’s how did you get here?”
Tails pulled out a rectangular box from his pocket. “We got here by using this teleporter I made over the past three years.” Tails explained to the confused hedgehog.
Sonic stared at the small metal machine in disbelieve. “Uh it seems a bit small doesn’t it?”
“Oh that’s because I installed a button in it that shrink’s it’s size so it’s easy to transport.” Tails explained.
Sonic nodded in understanding. “So is it only you guy’s or did everyone else come as well?” He asked the two.
“Na everyone else is here, but Amy and I ran ahead of them.” Tails explained.
“Yeah you two got way too excited.” Came a voice from the door.
“Knuckles! Shadow everyone!” Sonic exclaimed in happiness.
“Hey true blue, good to see yea!” Knuckles greeted Sonic with a high five.
“You too rad red!” Sonic greeted back.
“What the- Sir Gawain?” Percival whispered to herself in confusion. ‘Sir Lancelot, Sir Galahad, Sir Lamorack, and-’ Percival’s thoughts were interrupted.
“Oh Sonic, now the two of us can get married and-”
“Whoa Amy let go of me.” Sonic cried and Amy obeyed. “Look Amy I’m kind of, how should I put this… already seeing someone.”
Everyone gasped at Sonic’s words. “What! Who?!” Amy exclaimed.
Sonic rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment as Percival walked to Sonic’s side and crossed her arms. “That would be me.” She said and lifted her helmet off her head.
Everyone looked at her in shock, especially Blaze. “Y-your me!” She cried.
“Before we even continue this, I think should call the others here first.” Sonic said. “Percival would you mind?”
“Of cause not you highness.” Percival bowed and left the room.
Sonic turned back towards his friends and they did the same. “So… how have guy’s been?” Sonic asked casually.
“Well beside you disappearing for three years it’s been great.” Tails explained. “Eggman’s been quiet since you disappeared so I've had plenty of time to work on the machine.”
“And I’ve been itching for a rematch!” Jet cried as he held up his extreme gear.
“We’ll have a race later Jet.” Sonic claimed.
After another half hour of catching up Percival re-entered the room with the others following her. “Ok sire we’re. What so impor-” Gawain stopped as he look a good look at the others in the room, but then spotted Shadow, Silver, Tails, Amy, Blaze, and finally Knuckles.
“What the! Why are there copies of us?!” Gawain exclaimed.
Knuckles noticed Gawain and walked up to him. “Copy? I think you’ll find you’re the copy here!” Knuckles cried.
“No sir you’re the copy!” Gawain repeated.
“No you are!” Knuckles cried again.
“Knuckles, Gawain shut it!” Sonic cried in annoyance. “These people are my friends from my world. You all look alike which is why I originally mistook all of you for them when I first met you all.” Sonic explained.
The others then walked up to their counterparts, Amy walked up to Nimue, Shadow walked up to Lancelot, Silver walked up to Galahad, tails walked up to the blacksmith, Jet walked up to Lamorack, and Blaze walked up to Percival.
“Why don’t you all get to know each other for a little while?” Sonic suggested. “Lancelot and Galahad, you two can show Shadow and Silver around, Percival and Nimue, you two can show Blaze and Amy around, Gawain and Lamorack, you two can show Knuckles and Jet around, and finally Blacksmith, you can show Tails around.” Sonic finished.
They all nodded and went on their way.
“I’ll go with Jet.” Storm said as he ran for the door.
“I’ll go with Blaze and Amy.” Cream said as she ran after her friends.
“I’ll go with Shadow.” Rouge claimed as she ran after him.
“I might as well go with the two shorties.” Wave sighed and followed the two foxes.
Sonic watched them all leave and walked back to his throne and sat down. “Well that’ll keep them busy for a while.”
Meanwhile with Lancelot and Galahad…
“I don’t think you should have told them that I’m your son yet.” Galahad said while they looked at the now unconscious Shadow and Silver.
“Hmph, they’ll get over it.” Lancelot replied.
A few minutes later…
Shadow and Silver finally awoke from their unconscious state. “Ok. I think I’m good now.” Shadow groaned as he stood up.
“Good then let's continue.” Lancelot ordered as he continued on their original path.
Shadow, Silver, and Galahad looked at each other and continued to follow Lancelot. After a few minutes Silver got closer to Galahad. “Hey what's with him?” He asked the Silver knight as they walked on.
Galahad thought for a second before answering Silver. “Let's just say fathers pride isn't in the best state at the moment.” He bluntly answered in a low voice.
Shadow and Silver looked at each other in slight confusion, but didn't push the topic any further. “Tell me. Are either of you familiar with Sword combat?” Lancelot finally asked as they entered a stone tunnel.
“We're familiar with it, but not experts.” Shadow answered.
Lancelot Smirked as they made it through the exit to the tunnel, and were now in a large area filled with other knights practicing there skills either on training dummies, targets, or against each other. “Then I guess we will have to change that.” Lancelot said as Shadow and Silver looked around the area in awe.
“When do we start?” Shadow asked confidently to Lancelot who smirked back at him.
“Right now.”
Sonic and the Black Knight - The After Years: Rise of Darkness
Sonic yawned tiredly as he walked along the top of the castle walls that surrounded Camelot. There were archers all along the wall awaiting an attack. As Sonic made it to the middle of the front wall he found Gawain staring out towards the empty fields and decided to join him. "How's thing's here Gawain?" Sonic asked his knight as he reached his side.
"All quiet so far, but I expect that to change soon." Gawain answered without taking his eyes off the fields.
Sonic sighed relieving some stress, but it came back almost immediately. "Well I'm going to go check on the others." Sonic claimed.
At that second something caught Gawain's eye and stopped Sonic from leaving. "Wait sire!" Gawain cried.
Sonic turned and looked at Gawain and noticed he was pointing at the field ahead and decided to look down to where he was pointing. A dark shadow was forming in the middle of the field. Sonic could sense the dark power that was forming with in the shadow. "This power… Why does it feel so similar to my own?" Sonic questioned.
Finally after a couple of minutes four dark figures raised from the darkness, two of them resembled Lancelot and Galahad so Sonic suspected they were their dark versions. However the other two were different, Sonic however recognised one of them, a black hedgehog in gold armour who wielded Deathcalibur. "Shadow…" Sonic whispered in sorrow.
The forth figure took a few steps forward which snapped Sonic out of his trance and readied for an attack. "Don't take another step!" Gawain ordered.
The figure stopped and slowly looked up to them revealing that he was a hedgehog as well, but he look a little like Sonic except very Dark blue fur it almost looked black and his eyes were a blood red. "Wh-who are you?" Sonic asked.
The hedgehog smiled sinisterly. "Oh, you don't remember me? How typical of you."
"Wh-what?" Sonic stuttered in disbelief.
He slapped his palm on his forehead. "Oh that's right, there no way you would be able to remember, silly me."
Sonic was starting to get annoyed. "What do you mean?"
He scoffed at Sonic's question. "Like it'd tell you." He then had an idea. "I know. How about we make a deal."
Sonic raised his eye brow in confusion. "What kind of 'deal'?"
He smirked. "How about if you beat me, then I'll tell you everything."
"And if you win?"
"Then you simply hand over your kingdom. Sounds fair right?" The hedgehog asked Sonic.
Sonic nodded and jumped down from the wall and landed in front of him. "Ok, deal."
As Sonic reached for the hilt of his sword Caliburn's face appeared on the sword again. "Wait don't I get a say in this?" Sonic ignored his swords complaint and pulled Caliburn from his side and held him in front of himself ready for battle.
The hedgehog mimicked his move and pulled his sword out which was a sword half the size of Caliburn.
"So then, if I'm going to take you down then may I know your name?" Sonic kindly asked his adversary.
The hedgehog looked at him and chuckled for a few seconds then regains his composer. "I don't have a real name… Just call me Dark."
Sonic nodded and smirked. "Alright then 'Dark'. Brace yourself!"
"Sire!" Came a few voices from above.
Sonic looked up to see Gawain, Percival, and Lamorack falling down to them.
Once they landed they drew their swords. "Sire we will fight with you!" Gawain pronounced.
"Knowing them their not planning on a fair fight." Percival explained. "So Gawain will take Dark Galahad, Lamorack will take Dark Lancelot and I'll take on Shadow."
Sonic thought for a moment and nodded in agreement. "It's settled then, you three go fight his three Knights and leave the two of us." Dark ordered.
His three Knights bowed. "If that is what you wish sire." Shadow then teleported the six of them away and left the two hedgehog's alone.
Sonic and Dark then charged for each other with their Swords held high. "Can you match my speed?" Sonic cried as he dashed towards Dark.
As Sonic swung Caliburn towards Darks face, the hedgehog instantly parried the attack with his own sword and pushed Sonic into the air which in turn caused Sonic to perform a jump dash past Dark and land on his feet.
"Well, you certainly have the speed and reflexes." Sonic commented as he regained his composure and turned back towards Dark. "But do you have the skills?"
Sonic charged towards Dark again, but this time he didn't raise his sword. Instead he grinned and spoke two very familiar words. "Chaos Control." Instead of freezing time in the area, he instead froze time around Sonic who now just floated inches away from Darks face.
Dark stepped around Sonic till he was positioned on Sonic's left and punched him directly on his temple which flung the still frozen Sonic to the other side of the castle's wall. Dark laughed evilly as Sonic hit the ground.
"So cocky, but unable to even land a scratch on me, let alone move." Dark Taunted as he stepped towards Sonic slowly and his smile faded. "You think you deserve to rule this kingdom?" He said lowly as he clenched his sword tighter. "You're barely even worth to be called Royalty. You know nothing of how to lead a Kingdom." Dark stopped beside Sonic's body and grabbed his sword with his free hand, clenched it tighter and raised it above his head. "You were NEVER the rightful King. You stole that title from me!" Dark exclaimed as he swung his sword down towards Sonic.
"Chaos Break!" A voice cried from above.
At that instant Sonic unfroze and quickly dodged the attack which left Dark confused. "What? How-!" Dark was cut off when a fist collided with his face and was sent back a few hundred meters.
"You ok Sonic?" Knuckles asked as he extended his hand toward Sonic which he gladly took.
"Thanks man, I owe you one." Sonic chuckled.
"Hmph, you got luckily, but I was distracted by my hatred before so don't think I'll make the same mistake again." Dark declared as he stood back up again. Sonic and Knuckles readied themselves, but Dark never attacked. "I think I've made my point, and it's about time we take our leave." Just as Dark finished the rest of his Knights appeared next to him.
'Wait, if their here, then what happened to-?' Sonic thought as he turned his head to look behind them and saw everyone unconscious.
"From this point on, The kingdom of Camelot and The Kingdom of the underworld are officially at war!" Dark declared and teleported away.
Sonic sighed and fell on his back. "This was a disaster."
"Hey it's not all bad." Knuckles said as he sat down next to him.
Sonic sat up and glared at the echidna. "Not bad!" Sonic cried in anger. "We lost one of our closest and most powerful friends to the Knights of the underworld, We lost Deathcalibur, And now we're at war with the Underworld! And to top thing's off their unconscious!" Sonic exclaimed as he pointed to the others. "So in what way is this NOT BAD?!"
"Um, well if you put it that way it's pretty bad, but come on." Knuckles agreed. "Your not the type to give up."
At that moment Percival started to regain her strength and sat up weakly. "I'm going to help the others get some medical attention." Sonic said and walked over to group of unconscious bodies and left Knuckles alone.
"I'm starting to think we should never have come here." Knuckles whispered and followed Sonic.
Sonic and the Black Knight - The After Years: Rise of Darkness
Sonic sat atop his throne, head held up in his left hand as he looked down towards the floor while an emissary from a nearby town continued to speak to him about continuing problems in his town, but Sonic wasn't paying full attention for his mind was distracted from thinking about the fight he had with Dark.
It had been almost a week since the attack, and Sonic had been unusually quiet and depressive since then. Percival had been standing beside him the whole time and finally decided to speak with him after the emissary left the room. “My lord, are you alright?” She asked the hedgehog as he continued to stare at the ground. “My lord?” she spoke again this time catching his attention.
Sonic shock his head lightly for a second then looked towards her. “Uh, yes Percival?” He asked while trying to force a smile to hide his sadness.
“I asked if you were alright.” She repeated to the hedgehog completely seeing through his fake smile.
Sonic gave her a confused look and answered with, “Of cause I am! Why wouldn't I be?”
“It's just... you've been very distant from your friends and you've barely spoken since the attack.” She explained with deep concern in her voice.
Sonic chuckled for a second as he stood up from his throne and turned towards her. “Nothing gets past you huh Percival? But don't worry, I'm fine really there's no reason to worry.” He reassuringly answered her then turned to exit the throne room. “I'm just thinking about our situation.”
Sonic then left the room leaving Percival to her thoughts as a two tailed fox walked into the room. “Aw, I missed him again didn't I?” Tails asked Percival who slowly nodded. Tails sighed sadly. “What's going on with him? He's never been like this before.”
“He says he's fine, but I know a lie when I hear one.” Percival explained to the fox. “It's probably the stress of our current situation.” she concluded.
“What do you mean?” He asked her in confusion.
Percival sighed and began to explain to the fox. “You see through the whole three years that Sonic has been King, he has never truly been part of a war. The closest he's been to one is with the remaining Knights of the Underworld, but now we're in a war against the Underworld itself and I believe Sonic is just having a hard time trying to figure out what to do.” she finished and let tails process the information.
Tails after taking in all the information thrown at him nodded then spoke. “I see, but Sonic knows more then anyone to seek help from friends if he needs it.”
“Three years can change a hedgehog.” Percival answered bluntly as she proceeded to leave the room. Tails Sighed then left the room as well.
Later that day...
The Blacksmith slumped into his living room chair and wiped the sweat off his head after a long day of non-stop work. He was about to take a quick nap when the front door swung open and a bright yellow fox stepped through. “Afternoon Tails! How's your day so far?” He asked not noticing his depressive look.
Tails sighed as he turn towards the Blacksmith. “It could have been better.”
“Sonic still not talking to ya huh?” The blacksmith asked with concern. Tails nodded and sighed again as the Blacksmith got up from his chair and rested his hand on Tails' left shoulder. “Hey don't worry, Sonic will be back to his cocky, cheery self again in no time.”
Tails smiled at his Arthurian counterpart as he started to feel a little better. “Thanks Miles. I'm sure he will, I'm just concerned is all.”
Miles frowned then nodded. “I know Tails. We all are.”
Meanwhile...
Silver and Galahad continue to match blows as they continued Silvers training with Lancelot watching from afar. After a few more minutes Silver finally decided to approach him which Lancelot noticed then quickly frowned. “What do you want plant head?” Lancelot groaned as the Silver hedgehog was about to speak up.
“Oh uh, I was just going to ask if you would like to join us instead of just sitting here and staring at us.” Silver asked hesitantly, but the knight just continued stared at him. “You know, because it's kind of disturbing.” The black hedgehog just grunted and glared at Silver which caused him to back off abit. “O-ok. Never mind.”Silver whispered to himself as he made his way back to Galahad who just shrugged at the confused hedgehog.
“Is it just me, or is your father more depressed then Sonic?” Silver asked his Arthurian counterpart.
“Well since Shadow's gone he doesn't have anyone to spar with since Gawain is overseeing the defences at the wall, Percival is trying to comfort Sonic, and Lamorack is competing with Jet.” Galahad explained.
Silver sighed then thought for a minute. “Hmm. Galahad, do you mind if we call it a day?” The Silver hedgehog asked his Arthurian counterpart. “I have something I need to check out.”
Galahad raised an eyebrow at Silver and gave him a questioning look. “Sure, but what is it you need to check out?”
“Well if I know Shadow, then he most likely left something to inform us before he left just in case something like this happened.”
Galahad nodded in understanding. “So your gonna check his room?” Silver nodded his head confirming Galahad's question. “No problem then, I needed to go meet Trixie at the library anyway. We'll meet up again later.”
“Who's Trixie?” Silver asked which caused the knight to sweat.
“Um, j-just a girl.” Galahad answered bluntly.
“I thought told you I didn't want you seeing her any more!” Lancelot shouted from his seat. “She's a bad influence!”
Galahad sighed in embarrassment. “Oh and your so much better!” He shouted back to his father.
“At least I don't say my name every time I'm referring to myself, and don't call myself 'The Great and Powerful Lancelot'!
Galahad sighed again. “Anyway, ignoring the grouchy old man-”
“Who are you calling grouchy and old!” Lancelot interrupted with anger in his voice that echoed across the training fields.
“You! Now anyway, go ahead Silver we'll meet later.” The two nodded to each other and went their separate ways.
“Great now what am I suppose to do?” Lancelot questioned as he slumped further into his seat.
Meanwhile at a bakery in Camelot...
“Are you sure this will work Pinkie?” Amy uncertainly asked a pink horse like creature at the counter.
“As sure as I'm pink!” Pinkie cried hysterically. “We just need a way to get him down here.” Pinkie then brought one of her hooves to her chin to show that she was thinking. “He's still angry at me from what happened a couple of birthdays ago so I don't think he would want to see me.”
“And I don't think the guards would be very happy if I tried to drag him out by force.” Amy added and sighed.
At that moment a Sweet little filly and a Rabbit walked into the Bakery, which after noticing them gave the two of them an idea. “That's it!” They yelled at the same time.
“Hey Cream, Sweetie Belle! Could you come here a minute!” Amy shouted towards the two kids.
Later at the castle...
Sonic sat down on his bed and sighed tiredly. “Maybe a nice nap will get my mind off of things. I haven't been able to do one of those in a while.” Sonic then layed down and shut his eye's, but before he could fall asleep there was a knock at the door. “Who is it?”
“Sorry to disturb you your highness, it's Cream and Sweetie Belle. We we're wondering if we could ask you something.” Sweet and quiet voice spoke.
“Sure, come on in!” Sonic cried as he sat back up again. Just then the door opened and a Young Rabbit and a little white Filly entered the room. “So what's on your mind?”
“Well you see, Amy and Pinkie were wondering if you would come over to Sugercube Corner-” Sweetie Belle started, but stopped when Sonic shivered at the mention of those two names.
“Amy AND Pinkie want me to come down to Sugercube Corner...”Sonic said lowly and shivered again. “No thanks, I think I'll just stay here and have a nap.”
Sweetie Belle sighed sadly at the hedgehog as he layed back down on the bed. “Oh come on Sonic, your not still made at Pinkie for what happened during you sixteenth birthday are you?”
Sonic sat back up and looked the little Filly in the eye. “Well of course I am!” He shouted in slight anger. “That was just a ridiculous day and it will be a while before I will forgive her!”
“Nut Amy and Pinkie want to try and cheer you up! Oh won't you come with us just for a little while?” Cream begged as she put on her best puppy dog face.
“No.” Sonic simply said as he turned his head away.
“Pretty please with a cherry on top?” Sweetie added in also putting on a puppy dog face.
“I've trained myself to ignore puppy dog faces, so you two should just give up.” Sonic concluded as he turned his whole body away from them.
Cream and Sweetie Belle Sighed and looked at each other in defeat. “Looks like despite times calls for despite measures.” Cream announced to the Little filly who nodded her head in response.
“Apple Bloom, Scootaloo your up!” Sweetie Belle cried towards the door in which two more Filly walked into the room with rope in their mouths.
“Gotcha! Alright Sonic, just hold still and this will all be over in a second.” Scootaloo warned the hedgehog as she and Apple Bloom trotted closer to him.
Sonic turned around then his eyes widened as he saw the fillies getting closer to him. “Uh, what are the two of you gonna do with that rope?” Sonic nervously asked. “No wait! Aaaaaah!” Sonic cried as the two fillies wrapped the rope around him.
Once they were done the four kids smiled at their work and Apple Bloom started to drag him out of the room. “There now that wasn't so bad Sonic?” Cream said said happily to sonic who was now glaring at the her and Sweetie Belle.
Meanwhile somewhere else in the castle...
“Come on. Come on!” Silver cried in frustration as he searched around Shadow's room. “There's got to be something I've missed. Something Shadow knew that only we would find.”
“Or you mean something only I would find.” Came a voice in the darkness which got Silver's attention, but didn't react.
“Where have you been Rouge? We haven't much of you since that attack?” Silver questioned as a bat like figure appears from the darkness.
“Oh I've just been... thinking.” Rouge said with a hint of sadness. “Anyway I think that this is what you've been looking for.”
Rouge handed a smalled disk that wasn't any bigger then his hand. “A hollow recorder.” Silver whispered to himself. “So Shadow DID leave a message.”
Rouge nodded and her eyes started to tear up. “I found it the night after he left.” She managed to chock out before she ran out of the room.
“Huh? Is the message really that bad?” Silver asked himself as he turned the recorder on to play the last recording.
After watching the recording Silver's hands were trembling and his pupils shrink in horror. “S-shadow? You can't expect us to?” Silver whispered in disbelief. “I-I've got to show this to Sonic and the others as soon as possible! They've go to know what Shadow wanted us to do!” On that Silver rushed out of the room and into the hallway.
Rushing to find Sonic he hurried to Sonic's room only to find it empty. “Dammit Sonic! The one time I was hoping you would just be in your room!” Silver quickly shut the door then hurried out of the castle hoping to find the blue hedgehog as soon as possible.
Sonic and the Black Knight - The After Years: Rise of Darkness
Sonic flailed on the floor of Pinkie's room, and surrounded by four ponies and a female hedgehog. "What is the meaning of this?!" Sonic cried with clear anger. "You can't just drag the king wherever you want!"
Amy then walked up to Sonic and crouched down to his level with a smile on her mussel. "Now Sonic, you know that in the past my love for you would cause me to ignore any title you had for the sake of love." She then put her arm around Sonic's neck and pulled out her hammer. "But since now your already seeing someone else, the thought of seeing you sad is all that's keeping me from beating your butt into the ground."
Sonic then felt sweat fall from his head as he tried to get out of Amy's grip. "Ok, I'll be good! Now can you please let go of me?" Amy nodded and let go of him. "Now what is this all about anyway?"
Pinkie opened her mouth to say something, but a quick glare from Sonic caused her to slowly shut it again and looked down towards the floor. "First off Sonic, you can stop doing that to Pinkie Pie! I don't know what happened between you two, but it couldn't have been that bad!" Amy demanded.
Sonic turned and directed his glared towards the pink hedgehog. "You have NO idea-" Sonic was suddenly cut off by a cyan Pegasus with a Rainbow coloured mane and tail, bursting through the door.
"There you are Sire!" The Pegasus cried in relief as she bowed before him.
"Afternoon Rainbow Dash, what's wrong?" Sonic asked the Pegasus.
Rainbow Dash stood back up and approached the group. "Sire, the wonder bolts are waiting at the castle" The cyan pegasus proclaimed. "They bare a message from Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna from our neighbouring Kingdom, Canterlot."
"Ok, thank you Rainbow. I'll be over in a couple of minutes." Sonic thanked the pegasus, who saluted and flew back out the door. "Looks like we'll have to schedule this meeting for a different time, I have business to deal with." Sonic explained as he headed towards the door.
"Now hold on! You're not leaving until-" Amy started, but stopped when Sonic Ran out the door. "He's gone... Argh, what am I going to do with that hedgehog?!" The pink hedgehog exclaimed and slammed her Piko Piko into the floor. "Oops, Sorry Pinkie Pie."
"Oh it's ok, I'll just get Applejack to fix it later." The pink party Pony reassured while putting on a fake smile.
Meanwhile at Castle Camelot...
Sonic walked up to the throne room door and pushed it open with ease and was greeted by four Pegasi, Rainbow Dash who was sitting to the right of the throne, and three other pegasi in some blue uniforms, Sonic recognised them as Spitfire, Soarin, and Fleetfoot. However he also noticed that their uniforms were damaged like they had recently been in a battle. "Hey Soarin, Spitfire, Fleetfoot, Long time no see!" He cried as he made his way towards them.
But immediately after Sonic gained there attention Spitfire galloped towards the hedgehog and pinned him to the ground. "All right hedgehog, the Princesses want some answers from you, and they want them now!" The Fiery coloured pegasus exclaimed inches away from Sonic's face.
Sonic was shocked to say the least, he thought they were here for the usual negotiations, but here he was pinned down by one of the princesses elite pegasi who looks like she has the intent to kill. "Answers?" Sonic finally asked. "Answers for what?"
Spitfire intensified her hold on Sonic as her anger grew. "Don't give me that! You know full well what for!" Now Sonic was really confused, just what were they accusing him of?
"I swear, I have no idea what your talking about!" Sonic cried desperately.
Spitfire growled angrily and further narrowed her eyes at the hedgehog. "OK, I'll bite." The fiery coloured Pegasus whispered. "Why did you send Lancelot to attack us last night?!"
"Wh-what?!" Sonic and Rainbow Dash cried in disbelief. "But that can't be! Lancelot was here all night! Not to mention he's been to demotivated to fight!" Sonic explained.
"Don't lie to us hedgehog!" Fleetfoot cried as she approached the two. "The one who attacked us was undoubtedly Lancelot!"
"Before jumping to conclusions, how about you explain what happened." Sonic requested. "We may be able to explain."
Spitfire continued to glare at the hedgehog for a minute before she finally stepped away from Sonic. "Fine, we'll tell you what happened."
-Last night in the Canterlot castle throne room-
"Sister are you alright?" Princess Luna asked her sister beside her. "You've been in deep thought for half the night. Shouldn't you be getting some sleep?"
Celestia opened her eyes and looked towards her younger sister. "I know I should, but something just doesn't feel right." Celestia explained and glared at the door. "I feel as if there is an ominous presence approaching."
"What do you mean sister?" Luna asked the larger Alicorn.
Celestia just continued to glare at the door, until suddenly- "Get down!" Celestia cried as she put a shield around Luna and herself. Immediately afterwards the doors were blown off their hinges by two yellow energy spears which disappeared as they collided with Celestia's shield.
She then lowered the shield as a figure stepped into the throne room. "Bravo Princess. I wouldn't expect anything less." The figure complimented.
"Who are thou, and what business do thou have with us?!" Luna proclaimed using the Royal voice.
The figure stepped into the light and revealed what he looked like. Celestia recognised him as ?Lancelot, but something seamed off about him. "What else?" ?Lancelot spoke. " To kill you and take your kingdom."
"Lancelot what is the meaning of this?!" Celestia exclaimed in disbelief. "We are at peace with Camelot, why are you here to assassinate us?!"
?Lancelot chuckled coldly. "That's confidential. Now enough talk. Die!" ?Lancelot Cried as he threw two more chaos spears towards the princesses.
Celestia was able to put up her shield again before the spears could reach them. "Send for the Wonderbolts, Immediately!" Celestia ordered.
"Oh, I'm afraid there a bit pre-occupied at the moment." ?Lancelot Chuckled as he pulled out his sword. "Now, prepare yourselves! Chaos, Punishment!" ?Lancelot then flew towards the two princesses and slashed their shield rapidly, disappearing and reappearing after each slash.
After a minute, the constant slashing was starting to take it's toll as the strain was starting to show on Celestia's face. "Starting to ware down are we?" ?Lancelot asked mockingly at her who just grunted and continued to focus on the shield. "Enough playing around. Time to finish this off!" ?Lancelot then landed on his feet and started charging energy into his sword. "Chaos... Break!" He then flew forward and stuck the shield which immediately shattered upon his collision.
Celestia then fell forward and fainted from exhaustion. "Sister!" Luna cried worryingly.
?Lancelot chuckled evilly as he approached the two sisters. "A valiant effort, but it's useless to resist." The knight then conjured a chaos spear in each hand and got into a throwing position. "Now die!" ?Lancelot began to two the first spear, but it was thrown of track when he was suddenly punched from the side. The spear landed near the far right of then room, while ?Lancelot flew into the left wall and out the side of the building.
"Luckily... I got here... when I... did." The fiery coloured Wonder bolt struggled to speak as she turned towards the princesses. "You... two... ok?"
Luna nodded happily. "Yes, thank you Spitfire! You saved our lives."
Spitfire chuckled embarrassingly until her legs suddenly gave way under her. "Is it over?" She asked tiredly.
"Well unless Lancelot grew wings somehow I don't think we're going to be hearing from him again." Luna joked.
Suddenly the sound of jet engines erupted from the other side of the wall, and there smiles faded when a familiar black hedgehog rose up the building until he could be completely seen through the hole. ?Lancelot was holding the left side of his head, and was giving the three of them a huge death glare. At that moment they knew he was done playing around. "That does it..." He muttered lowly. "This kingdom will fall... Mark my words, Princesses." With that ?Lancelot teleported away, leaving fear in Luna, and Spitfire's minds.
-Present Day-
Sonic and Rainbow Dash sat there in disbelief while Spitfire finished her explanation. "We can't simply let a threat like that go with out taking action. So hand over Lancelot so he can face his punishment or else!" Spitfire demanded.
Sonic thought for a second before speaking again. "There's just one more thing I have to ask that might clear this all up."
Spitfire confusingly raised her eye brow. "And what would that be?"
"What was the colour of his armour?" Sonic asked confident he knew the answer.
"His armour?" The fiery coloured pegusus repeated. "It was gold."
Sonic lowered his head and banged his fist against the wall. "Damn it! Shadow's getting even more reckless!"
"Shadow?" Fleetfoot repeated. "Who's Shadow?"
"He's one of my friends." Sonic explained.
"You see almost a week ago, he took a cursed sword from the weapon vault. It contained the spirit of the Evil version of King Arthur, and if anyone were to wield the sword there body and mind would be possessed by his spirit. And we have only until the end of the month to take the sword from him or else the possession will become permanent." Rainbow finished explaining.
Spitfire glared at the hedgehog with clear distrust in her eyes. "Is this legit? Cause if you are just making up excuses, we will have no choice but to-"
Spitfire was cut off when the Throne room doors were flung open and a Silver hedgehog was standing in the opening and was clearly out of breath. "There you are Sonic!" Silver exclaimed. "I've been looking all over for you!"
"Uh, hey Silver." Sonic greeted the telekinetic hedgehog. "What's the problem?"
Silver quickly closed them gap between them and held up the holo device. "I found this in Shadow's room. It contains a recorded message from just before he went to take the sword."
"R-really?!" Sonic stammered in disbelief. "Well what are you waiting for? Play it!"
Silver nodded and pressed a button on the side which caused the device to light up and showed a small hologram of Shadow. "Sonic." The hologram started. "If you are watching this, then what you warned me about came true." At this moment rainbow and the three wonder bolts gathered around the device and watch patiently.
"I have by now attack you and probably many others." The hologram continued. "If this is the case, then you must use any means necessary to stop me from harming anyone else. Even if it means... taking my life." Sonic, Silver, and Rainbow were taken back by this statement. "You can't let your feelings get in the way of protecting your kingdom. If you must take my life then you can't hesitate, or else you maybe putting everyone else in danger. If this is the case then this maybe the last time I'll get to say this. Goodbye my eternal, Sonic the Hedgehog."
With that the hologram disappeared and the six of them were left with shocked expressions. "You... weren't kidding." Spitfire muttered.
"H-How?" Sonic whispered. "How does he expect us to just kill him, just like that?" Sonic then fell to his knees and slammed his fists on the floor. "Damn it! Is there really no way we can save him?!"
"Sonic-" Silver started but was interrupted by the doors flying open yet again.
"HOLD IT!"
The group, minus Sonic, looked towards the doorway to see a cloaked figure standing there pointing his hoof at them. "Are you really going to give up so easily your highness?"
"Huh? And just might you be?" Rainbow asked the cloaked pony.
The pony then flipped his cloak's hood off the reveal a aqua blue unicorn, with aqua blue eyes, and a dark green mane. "My name is, Ashton Origans." The Unicorn introduced himself. " Formally known as the Knight of the Stars, and former Knight of the Round Table."
Sonic and the Black Knight - The After Years: Rise of Darkness
It has been three years since I beat Merlina, and saved the world of King Arthur. Since then I've been proclaimed as the new King Arthur and have been ruling ever since. It hasn't been as bad as I originally thought it would be. The first important thing I did was govern Merlina's Trial. It went well; she was forgiven for her acts since I was convinced that she was through tampering with the underworld, and continued being the royal wizard.
Also though I may have beaten Merlina, who was the one responsible for summoning the knights of the underworld, the knights that remained continued to exist in our world, and caused havoc around the world. So it has been my duty, as well as the Knights of the Round Table's to exterminate the remaining knights of the underworld. It has been this way for three years, and thing's just seem to never calm down.
There then was a knock at the door. 'Who could that be?' Sonic thought to himself, he set down the quill he was using to write and got up from his desk.
The door creaked as he open it slowly, and found his most trusted knight, Lancelot, in the door way. “Lancelot, do you have any idea what time it is?” Sonic asked his knight tiredly.
Lancelot bowed respectively. “I am sorry to disturb you this night my King.” Lancelot Apologised. “But I have heard reports that Knights of the underworld have been setting up a small encampment near Misty Lake, and ask if I have your permission to pursue them.” Lancelot explained.
Sonic thought for a moment before answering. “Don't you think you should take Gawain or Percival with you?” The hedgehog asked curiously.
Lancelot shook his head in disagreement. “They only just returned from their last mission, so they need their rest.” Lancelot claimed. “Besides it's just a small encampment, I've taken on bigger by myself before.”
Sonic looked at his knight in concern, and answered. “Well if you’re sure, you have my permission.” Sonic claimed.
Lancelot bowed again. “Thank you my lord. I will not fail you.” Lancelot then turned away and headed back towards his quarter's to ready himself.
Sonic closed the door and sighed tiredly. “It's well past midnight by now.” Sonic yawned. “Better get to bed.” He then climbed into his king sized bed and fell quickly asleep.
--9:30 the next morning--
Sonic yawn tiredly as he sat on his throne. “Lancelot should have been back by now.” Sonic said to himself in worry.
“Perhaps something has gone wrong.” Merlina suggested. She was standing next to him. “It would be wise to send one of the others to assist him.”
Sonic thought for a moment. “Yeah I guess so.” Sonic answered. “Could you get Sir Galahad for me?” He asked Merlina.
“Of course Sir Sonic.” Merlina then used her magic to teleport out of the room to find Sir Galahad.
Percival entered through the doors to the throne room a moment after, and proceeded towards Sonic. “My king, may I ask a question?” Percival asked Sonic as she bowed.
“You just did.” Sonic and Percival laughed for a moment. “Yes you may.” He answered after recovering.
“I am confused as to why you’re sending sir Galahad instead of Sir Gawain, Sir Lamorack, or myself.” Percival explained. “Anyone of us could find Sir Lancelot faster than Sir Galahad.”
Sonic smirked and explained bluntly. “Let’s just call this a father and Son bonding mission.”
Percival sighed as she was actually bored and just wanted something to do. “I see. Is there anything I can do in the meantime?” Percival asked.
Sonic thought for a minute, thinking if there were any errands they could run, but couldn't think of any. “Sorry Percival, but there isn't really anything I can think of.” Sonic Shrugged.
Percival sigh again and turned towards the doors. “Very well, I shall just patrol the town then.” Percival looked back towards Sonic slightly. “If that's ok with you of course?”
Sonic nodded happily, and at the same time Sir Galahad stepped through the doors slowly and walked up to Sonic. Both Percival and Galahad took no notice of each other as the silver knight continued to walk up to Sonic. “You called you highness?” Galahad asked as he got down on his knee.
Sonic nodded and his smile faded. “Last night, your father was tasked to engage a KOTU (Knight of the Underworld) encampment. So far he hasn't returned, or even communicated with us at all, and it’s been well over nine hours.” Sonic explained.
“Let me guess. You want me to go and find him?” Galahad asked.
Sonic nodded and continued. “We believe that something may have gone wrong, and if possible, do not continue to engage the enemy.” Sonic said firmly. “Just get the two of you out of there before the situation gets any worse.”
Galahad stood back up and nodded respectively. “Yes Sir. Do not worry, I will find him.” He reassured Sonic by lifting up his helmet and smiled. Sonic returned the smile and Galahad turned towards the doors. “I will leave immediately. Wish me luck Sire.” Sonic nodded as Galahad exited through the doors, and left on his journey.
After an hour of absolutely nothing Sonic decided to go out and have a walk around the castle, taking in the beautiful scenery that the gardens gave. As he turned a corner, he found himself in a larger garden than all the rest. There were beautiful plants of all kinds here. “One thing that I love about this place is its beautiful scenery.” Sonic said out loud. As he was passing a semi large tree he noticed a young rabbit girl kneeling in front of a patch of roses, and decided to approach her. As he reach the girl he noticed that she was planting some new seeds in a patch of dirt that was between the patch of roses, and a patch of daisies. “What cha planting Cream?” Sonic asked the rabbit curiously.
The rabbit stopped what she was doing and looked up to Sonic who was standing next to her. “Oh King Sonic!” Cream cried in surprise. “I was just planting some Violet flower seeds. I just thought that this empty patch of dirt would better if it had some flowers planted in it.”
Cream explained. “Is that ok?”
Sonic smiled and rustled his right hand through her hair which caused her to smile. “Of cause.” Sonic said happily.
Cream giggled happily as Sonic kneeled beside her and began to help plant the seeds. After they were done, Cream and Sonic talked for a while, but Cream then brought up the subject about Lancelot. “Sonic.”
Sonic looked at her happily and replied. “Yes?”
“Where is Sir Lancelot?” Cream asked worriedly. “I haven't seen him all morning.”
Sonic was taken back from the question and scratched the back of his head nervously. “Well he sort of went on an assignment last night, and we fear that he might be in trouble since we hadn't heard from him.” Sonic explained. Cream covered her mouth with her hands in surprise. “But we sent Sir Galahad to go and retrieve him. Hopefully they should be back by this afternoon, but if not then the rest of the Knights of the Round Table, as well as myself will go and search for the two of them. But let's hope it doesn't have to come to that.” Sonic Smiled nervously.
Cream sighed in relief knowing that Galahad is searching for him. “Well let's hope the two of them will return alright.” Cream smiled happily. She then remembered that she had to go somewhere now. “Oh my goodness, I forgot I had to meet my farther at the market once I was done here!” Cream cried in realisation and began to run towards the castle. “Sorry Sonic, but I have to go right now! We'll talk some other time!” Cream exclaimed as she turned a corner.
“Ok! See you later!” Sonic cried as he waved goodbye to her.
He then sighed as he was now alone again, but not even minute later he heard rustling in the nearby bushes behind him. “HAAAAAA!” yelled a voice from behind as a dark figure jumped out from the bushes and lunged at him, but Sonic easily dodged it by simply bowing forward, which caused the figure to fly right over him. “Heh pretty good!” The figure commented as he landed.
Sonic then stood back up properly, and faced his attacker. “Lamorack just face it. You’re not faster than me.” Sonic said to the figure.
The figure walked in to the light to reveal a Green bird. “Heh, says you.” Lamorack countered bluntly, and throw a punch at Sonic's face, but Sonic just easily caught his fist in his right hand. Lamorack than throw a second punch with his left hand, but that was also caught in Sonic's other hand. He then smirked and started to sweep his left leg towards Sonic, but Sonic just parried it with his, and tripped Lamorack with his other leg since he was now unbalanced, and easily fell for Sonic's sweep. He laid there in defeat for a moment before Sonic extended his hand towards him and smiled at him. Lamorack took his hand and stood up correctly.
Sonic then started to walk away from Lamorack and wave at him with his back turned, and could hear Lamorack mumble something. “I'll beat you soon Sonic. One of these days.” With that Lamorack headed towards the castle as well.
Hours passed and still no sign of Lancelot or Galahad. He had decided they would wait until midnight, and if they weren't back by then, they all will start a search for them. “Sire you should not worry yourself.” Percival told Sonic.
Sonic was pacing in front of his desk in his room while Percival was standing next to the door no longer wearing her armour, but instead she was wearing a plain purple dress. “But how can I not worry?” He asked her as he stopped pacing. “Lancelot and Galahad haven’t returned yet and it’s almost been a full day!”
Percival walked up to him and put her hand on his shoulder. “You should have more faith in them like I do.” She suggested. “Besides it’s your birthday, and I think it’s time we joined everyone for your party.” Sonic nodded and the two of them left the room.
At the party
The room was filled with people of all kinds, Royal’s, citizens, and even some visiting citizens from there neighboring Kingdom Canterlot, heck even Gawain was hanging out with an Orange echidna. “Whoa. The place is packed.” Sonic said in a low voice.
“Well you did invite almost everyone in the kingdom sire.” Percival reminded him.
Sonic chuckled nervously in embarrassment. “Is the great Sir Sonic scared of a harmless crowd?” Came a familiar voice. Sonic’s sword Caliburn hopped out from to them.
“What are yea talking about Caliburn? I’m not scared.” Sonic claimed confidently.
“If you say so My Liege.” Caliburn said as he hopped down the steps towards the party and joined Gawain.
“Come on Sire. Everyone’s waiting.” Percival said as she grabbed on to Sonic’s hand and pulled him towards the party. As they were walking down the steps everyone turned to them and cheered while Sonic nervously waved at them. “See that wasn’t so bad now was it?” She asked him as they reached the bottom and everyone went back to what they were previously doing.
Sonic sighed. “I guess not.”
As the party went on Sonic started to push his worries to the back of his mind, at least until he had to dance. “Alright everypony!" A white unicorn announced from behind her DJ equipment. "As tradition the king will be the one to dance first with the one of his choosing!”
A sweat dropped from his face as everyone turned to him and Percival. “Uh P-Percival, would you care t-to dance with m-me?” Sonic stuttered.
Percival blushed and chuckled slightly at Sonic’s shyness. “Of course your highness.” She agreed. Sonic and Percival both walked onto the dance floor with everyone else silent, but just as they were about to start the doors were suddenly kicked open by… “Galahad! Lancelot!” Sonic cried at the hedgehog’s at the door.
Galahad limped into the room with his father unconscious in his arms. “S-sire…” he struggled. “T-there’s big… trouble… Please… help…” Galahad then fell to the floor and fell into unconsciousness.
Sonic and the Black Knight - The After Years: Rise of Darkness
Troubles afoot! The New Black Knight!
"To begin you first need to wield a sword." Galahad explained as he led Shadow and Silver to a small building with in the training area that help all kinds of variety's of weapons all along the wall as well as in barrels scattered around the room.
"Whoa!" Shadow and Silver cried simultaneously in awe.
"We can choose any our own?" Silver asked.
Galahad happily nodded. "Choose any that are to your liking."
Shadow and Silver quickly scattered around the room looking for suitable weapons. After about ten minutes Silver returned to Galahad with two short sword, one in each hand. "I see you are a dual wielder like Gawain." Galahad pronounced which caused Silver to shyly smile.
Shadow however was having a harder time finding a suitable weapon. He was on the second floor of the building directly above them. Shadow was picking up various swords and throwing them back down, none of them was to his liking, until he came across a large sword hanging on the far end of the wall.
"Whoa! Now that's a sword!" Shadow exclaimed as he examined the sword. The sword was yellow down the middle, with purple around the yellow, and finally the edge of the blade was black and had six bumps on each side.
As Shadow reached for the blade he suddenly felt his arm being held back. "Stop!" Galahad cried as he ran towards Shadow. "You can't take this sword!" He proclaimed as he stood in front of the hedgehog.
Shadow raised his eye brow in both confusion and irritation. "And why not? You said we can take any that is to our liking." Shadow explained.
"Yes, but not this one!" Galahad repeated. "This sword is called 'Deathcalibur'! It was used by the evil King Arthur that Sonic was brought here to stop!"
"What does that have to do with why I can't use it?" Shadow asked curiously.
"Because Deathcalibur has a tendency to brainwash whoever wields it!" Galahad finished.
Shadow was persistent, he kept trying to get Galahad to allow him to use Deathcalibur, but the final result was him getting carried out of the building by both Galahad and Silver by their Telekinesis.
That evening...
"How was your first day in Camelot you guys?" Sonic asked his friends as they walked through a long hallway.
"It was great!" Tails exclaimed. "Miles (The blacksmith) showed me how to make different kinds of sword blades! It was really cool!"
Sonic chuckled to his brother's enthusiasm. "Well I know our day was perfect." Jet said with a smirk towards Lamorack.
"Why, what happened?" Sonic asked.
Knuckles slightly chuckled. "Lamorack was curious about Jets board and attempted to ride it." Knuckles explained. "Let's say it didn't go well."
After another minute they finally reached a couple of large double doors and entered through them to find themselves in a large dining room. The table was filled with various meats and vegetables. "Whoa now that's a feast fit for a king!" Strom cried with his mouth watering at the sight.
Sonic chuckled. "If you're hungry than dig in!" Sonic cried as they made their way to their seats.
After dinner Sonic showed all the boys to their room, while Percival showed the girl's to their rooms. Jet and Storm shared a room, Tails and Knuckles shared a room, while Shadow and Silver got their own rooms; Sonic knew Shadow wouldn't want to share with anyone.
Later that night…
Once everyone was asleep, Shadow crept out his window and made his way down the castle until he was at the gates. He kept walking until he came across the same tunnel as before and made his way through. Once he was on the other side, Shadow ran silently over to the building they were in earlier, and made his way inside.
When he was he quickly ran up the stairs to the second floor and ran up to Deathcalibur. Once he as directly in front of the sword Shadow slowly reached out and grabbed Deathcalibur.
Meanwhile back at the castle…
"Galahad! Galahad!" Silver cried silently as he shook the knight awake.
Galahad groaned as he sat up. "Silver… What is it?" He asked tiredly.
"I went to ask Shadow something, but he's gone!" Silver exclaimed.
"What! He better not be doing what I think he's doing!" Galahad cried as he was now fully awake.
Silver nodded. "If I know Shadow, and trust me I know him like the back of my hand by now, he's probably gone to take Deathcalibur." Silver explained. "He's stubborn that way."
The two of them quickly flew out the window and down to the training grounds. They quickly made their way into the build, but were in vain. "Damn! He's already gone!" Galahad exclaimed.
"We need to alert Sonic and the others!" Silver proclaimed. "If that sword is as dangerous as you say it is than we need to find him as soon as possible!" Galahad nodded in agreement and the two of them made their way back to the castle.
Meanwhile in Deep Woods…
Shadow was holding Deathcalibur with both his hands and slashed multiple trees in half. "Now this is what I call power!" Shadow proclaimed as he continued to relentlessly slash at the trees. After nearly an hour Deathcalibur started to glow which got Shadow's attention. He then felt his body start to move on its own! "H-hey what's going on here?!" Shadow exclaimed.
'Foolish rodent!' A voice spoke.
"What? Who's there?!" Shadow demanded as he franticly looked towards the trees.
'You should have listened to your friends.' The voice continued. 'Now your body is mine!' Suddenly Shadow blanked out and a black and purple light engulfed him. When the light faded an armoured shadowy figure ran off towards the mountains.
Meanwhile back in Camelot…
"This is bad…" Sonic pronounced as he inspected the glass case that Deathcalibur laid. "If Shadow truly does have that sword, than he could very well become the new black knight." Sonic lowered his head and crossed his arms in thought.
"Then shouldn't we go after him before that happens?" Knuckles asked.
Sonic slowly shook his head. "Once Shadow picked up the sword he sealed his fate." Sonic explained.
Everyone continued to stand there in shock and sadness at the seemingly loss of their friend. Continued to think of any possible way to prevent the inevitable. "What if we we go and find him and take the sword back?" Rouge asked. "Would that undo the damage?"
Sonic looked over to the bat, not changing his facial expression. "Yes, but we only have a month to do so, or it becomes permanent." Sonic explained. "And there's no need to find him. He'll come to us."
Tails raised an eye brow at Sonic confusingly. "What makes you think that?"
Sonic chuckled slightly. "Cause let's face it, he maybe the same black knight from before, but since he's in Shadow's body he shares his ego as well." Sonic looked back down to the ground. "The problem is that not only does he have the same powers as before he also has Shadow's abilities as well."
"Then we've no time to waste we need to get our defences ready before he gets here and prepare ourselves." Gawain pronounced.
Sonic nodded to his knight and they proceed back to the castle.
Meanwhile at the Damned Isle…
"But my lord there was no stopping them." A Dark Silver hedgehog pleaded. "Lancelot's powers are impossible to-"
"Silence!" Cried a Dark figure atop a black and red throne. "I don't want to hear any more excuses DS! You must serve a penalty for your actions!" The figure stood up and raised his towards Dark Silver.
DS stepped back fright. "N-no please your majesty!" He pleaded.
"Enough!" The figure cried. "Take your punishment like a men DS."
"Stop!" Came a voice from the entrance.
The two of them looked towards the figure to see a hedgehog wearing Golden armour. "Hmph. Arthur you made it I see." The figure said as he lowered his hand.
Arthur walked forward towards the throne and kneeled down next to Dark Silver. "Yes, and as you can see I was also able to take control of one of the rodents friends." Arthur smiled evilly under his helmet.
"Indeed. Searching through the memories of this hedgehog that I inhabit, this one's named Shadow." The figure explained. "He looks and acts just like Lancelot as well as having the same powers."
"Sire I request an army of soldiers so I can crush that king of theirs." Arthur claimed. "I want to crush that infernal rodent for what he did to me!"
The figure held his hand up signalling him to silence which he obliged. "All in due time Arthur, but for now…"
Back at Camelot Castle…
"Well Knuckles, anything?" Silver asked the echidna who was concentrating with the master emerald.
The echidna shook his head. "No. I can't track his chaos energy." Knuckles explained. "There's something's blocking me. Whatever it is, it's powerful."
"Damn, ok then. You can all return to your rooms now, we will figure this out in the morning." Sonic stated which every nodded and returned to their rooms. 'Shadow… why didn't you just listen for once?' Sonic thought to himself before he returned to his room also. Not knowing what the future had install for them.
