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action sequence, plus I finally incorporated two of my all time favorite Sonic characters into the TMS setting for more than just cameos. One of them a debut of sorts! Besides, sooooome of y'alls don't even read stuff unless there's some sex and honestly I never did find a cutoff point I was happy with. But of course, that means there IS a ton of sex in this one! >:3 And I kid, I am never offended if people skip to the naughty part (it's about 3/5th of the way in btw). But if you have the time, do give the first part your consideration, begs your humble bard and servant. <3\n\nTo be honest, future TMS entries will likely not be this large. Fifty single space pages (which works out to ~110 pages in the Inkbunny reader) is exhausting for all and stretches the credulity of \"short\" story. But at least that groundwork laid out now, and our intrepid horny pals Shadow, Tails, Sonic and the gang will have even more companions along the way. So thanks for the read and enough of my yabbering, it's time to rally our forces, gear up, hit the trail and hunt down our favorite two-tailed fox and purple ninja and find out just what the heck is going on in [i]TMS 9 - Duels and Delights![/i]\n\nSonic, Tails, Shadow, Espio and other SEGA characters all (c) SEGA. Valdis the Bard belongs to me.\n\nThumbnail art by @AngelofHapiness[/b]\n[i]\n[b]Note: [/b]As in all my writing, the fictional character Miles \"Tails\" Prower and others engaged in explicit acts should be considered aged up / age of consent. Thank you.[/i]","description_bbcode_parsed":"Sweet Mother of Chaos, this entry took far too long and got way too big.  *Pants*  But in my defense, I had a lot of fun writing an honest-to-goodness action sequence, plus I finally incorporated two of my all time favorite Sonic characters into the TMS setting for more than just cameos.  One of them a debut of sorts!  Besides, sooooome of y'alls don't even read stuff unless there's some sex and honestly I never did find a cutoff point I was happy with.  But of course, that means there IS a ton of sex in this one! >:3  And I kid, I am never offended if people skip to the naughty part (it's about 3/5th of the way in btw).  But if you have the time, do give the first part your consideration, begs your humble bard and servant.  <3

To be honest, future TMS entries will likely not be this large.  Fifty single space pages (which works out to ~110 pages in the Inkbunny reader) is exhausting for all and stretches the credulity of "short" story.  But at least that groundwork laid out now, and our intrepid horny pals Shadow, Tails, Sonic and the gang will have even more companions along the way.  So thanks for the read and enough of my yabbering, it's time to rally our forces, gear up, hit the trail and hunt down our favorite two-tailed fox and purple ninja and find out just what the heck is going on in TMS 9 - Duels and Delights!

Sonic, Tails, Shadow, Espio and other SEGA characters all (c) SEGA.  Valdis the Bard belongs to me.

Thumbnail art by \r\n\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAngelofHapiness\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t		\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAngelofHapiness\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t


Note:  As in all my writing, the fictional character Miles "Tails" Prower and others engaged in explicit acts should be considered aged up / age of consent.  Thank you.","writing":"[t]Ten Miles of Shadow[/t]\nby Valdis the Bard\n\n\n[i][b]Disclaimer and warning. [/b] This story is entirely fictional and for entertainment purposes only. I do not own the SEGA characters or any guest characters and no monetary gain was made or sought. This story is for adults only and contains explicit depictions of sex (e.g. gay, anthropomorphic, yaoi) and mild violence. If you are under the age of eighteen or find such themes offensive, read no further. The author accepts no responsibility to any who ignore this disclaimer. This work is free to share, in whole or in part, unaltered and with proper credit. Enjoy! -Valdis, April 2019[/i]\n\n\nEpisode 9 - Duels and Delights \n\n Knuckles wiped his brow and huffed, namesakes raised and ready as he squinted in the late afternoon sun. He wished he had worn sunglasses. He wished he was still enjoying a cold grape soda back in the weight room. He wished dust and sweat weren't clinging to him from brow to ballsack. And he especially wished he and his troops weren't staring down an angry wall of well-armed Jackal Squad slowly encircling them in the middle of a scrubby volcanic valley. Alerted by Shadow, he had ordered a full scale search for Espio and Tails just hours ago, but as Resistance units and their G.U.N. advisers began chasing leads, enemy sightings and skirmishes popped up across South Island's vastness, forcing the echidna to divert his resources. Whittled down to thirty or so, Knuckles' task group doggedly had pursued sightings far into the Rift Zone, a volcanic desert northwest of the Lava Barrens, themselves no picnic. Using assault landers to cover the jagged expanse, they soon zeroed in on Facility 27, a largely forgotten storage annex slowly rusting in the desert sun. Only moments had passed since finally catching up with the confused ninja and unconscious fox--and the dozens, if not hundreds, of jackals lying in wait. Most were on foot, with others perched menacingly on well-worn motorcycles and ATVs. A trio of repaired Eggman mechs stood at the mob's rear. To the sweaty, perturbed echidna, options were few and dwindling fast.\n\n \"What are they waiting for? It's plain as day we're outnumbered,\" grumbled Knuckles, watching scores of agitated jackals fiddle with their clubs, knives, chains and fists. \"You guys see Mask Boy anywhere?\"\n\n \"Not yet,\" replied Silver, the hedgehog's hands poised and glowing as he stood beside the echidna peering from face to snarling face. Many jackals seemed leery of his luminous limbs and kept their distance. Playing on their fears, Silver kept up the display, but less cautious foes waved their weapons and howled for blood as they edged closer. Undaunted and well trained, the echidna's troops were pumped too, some already drawn into heated, chest-beating exchanges. Adrenaline flowed as fangs bared; insults and spittle flew; hackles rose as ears flattened. Keeping a sharp eye on the present dangers, Silver calmly focused his mind on those unseen. \"I thought I felt something, but… it's gone.\"\n\n \"He was here,\" warned Espio, the ninja poised on Knuckles' other side with razor-sharp shuriken at the ready. \"For only a moment, hovering above the facility. It certainly wasn't Shadow as I was expecting. From what you've told me, I've been deceived… and dishonored.\" He sighed heavily and steeled himself. Having recognized the purple phantom who had made their lives miserable for months, jackals nearest the ninja hurled vile insults and threats as Resistance ranks closed in protectively behind the lead trio and yelled back, cocking a flashy array of weapons.\n\n \"It's not your fault,\" offered Knuckles, slicing the air with his hand. \"Fake orders, something got busted into, encryption… I was lifting when Shadow ran up, couldn't make out half the shit he told me. Then POOF! He Chaoses outta there and all hell breaks loose. I'm just glad we got to you before these guys did!\" The echidna punched his fists together. \"Now gimme some options guys, or I'm just gonna start punching!\"\n\n \"They're counting our heads. They are eager to fight,\" squinted Silver, his unseen psychokinetic push separating some of the ballsier belligerents. He sniffed the air and shook his head. \"Some fear, but not much. Whatever is staying their hand, it won't last. We have what we came for. I say we retreat and regroup!\"\n\n \"I could make a break for the facility and lure them in, then take them out room by room,\" offered Espio, pulling mini binoculars from his shoe. \"A ninja specialty, would buy us some time.\" He peered at the jackal higher-ups as they chatted confidently with the mech pilots casually smoking or suiting up inside the top hatches. Jackals who had seized the warehouses below peered back through their own binoculars as more rode in from the wastes. \"What exactly are we storing in there?\"\n\n \"Fuck if I know,\" shrugged Knuckles, shading his eyes and peering down. \"Twenty seven is G.U.N.'s deal, Shadow never fills me in. Yo! Valdis!\" Ears perking, a lanky red fox armed with a composite longbow and a quiver of ballistic arrows ran up from his comrades. Clad in leather boots and black tactical vest with distinctive G.U.N. insignia, he stood at attention and removed his wide-brimmed feathered hat, revealing sharp green eyes and an unruly mop of purple hair.\n\n \"Yes, Commander?\" saluted the fox.\n\n \"Hey. What's your boss got stashed away down there?\" queried Knuckles, thumbing at the complex. \"Anything we can't live without?\"\n\n \"Or anything that might tip the scales?\" winked Espio, placing a hand on the fox's shoulder as Silver nodded eagerly. \"Some mechs of our own would do nicely.\"\n\n \"Uh, we did have some captured mechs in there sirs, but they were all in pieces when I saw them,\" offered the fox, brushing the bangs from his eyes. \"Is Tails awake? He might know!\" Valdis turned to the other fox, who sat rubbing his eyes by the ninja's motorcycle. \"Tails, sir! What's inside Facility 27?\"\n\n \"Huh? Oh… hey, Val. Um, it's mostly a boneyard now,\" replied the groggy engineer, rubbing his wrists where his ropes had been cut. Matted and pale from the long involuntary ride, he took a deep breath and grunted as he used the bike to pull himself up. \"Old parts… uhnnff… obsolete equipment, un-recycled metal… oof.\" Wobbly but standing, he shook out his namesakes and rubbed his blurry, itchy eyes. \"Those jackals might want it, but the good stuff is long gone.\"\n\n \"Then we're gone, too. Glad you're okay, kiddo!\" smiled Knuckles, giving a thumbs up as Valdis walked over and offered Tails his canteen. \"Okay! We're going to regroup with the others. If these guys are dumb enough to still be here when we get back, we'll pound their asses into the sand!\" Cupping his mouth, he waved back the way they came. \"Resistance! Prepare to retreat on my mark! Back to the landers! Buddy! Whisper! Gimme covering fire on those mechs! G.U.N. group, take point! Command will cover the rear! Stand by!\" The echidna turned back to Tails, eagerly gulping water as Valdis ran to his station. \"You okay to run, pal? Or fly?\"\n\n As if to answer the echidna's question, the fox rose to join them but promptly fell to all fours, sending the canteen clattering on the rocks. He got up quickly but wobbled the other way, missing Silver's outstretched hand and hitting his haunches before the hedgehog helped him up. \"Thanks, Silver,\" he gulped, squinting and wiping his clammy brow. \"Sorry, I'm still kinda dizzy. Everything's all bright and blurry and I'm a little nauseous. But I'll keep up, I promise!\"\n\n \"That should wear off pretty quick now that you're up,\" nodded Espio, leaning in and checking the fox's eyes. \"Stick close!\"\n\n \"Sorry Tails, but I'd never forgive myself if they caught you,\" thumbed Knuckles, crouched and ready to signal. \"Silver-- you got him?\"\n\n \"But I--\" started the fox, picking up the canteen.\n\n \"Come, Tails,\" nodded Silver, hands raised and radiant as he waved them at the jackals, their growling ranks pressing closer as they noticed enemy movement. Fist-sized rocks and chunks of rebar came hurtling in, but a twitch of the hedgehog's fingers sent each one sailing back, bringing thuds and pained yelps. The projectiles stopped. Silver gracefully weaved the air again, levitating the surprised fox onto his back. \"Hang on tight,\" he nodded, hiking his passenger's legs around his waist. \"I'll need both hands free for this.\"\n\n \"Okay. Thank you, Silver,\" hugged Tails, a small blush brightening the hedgehog's resolute nod as the fox kissed his cheek and whispered. \"Good luck.\"\n\n As Knuckles inhaled to give the order, a familiar voice crackled in from his wrist communicator. \"Hey, Big Red! It's Blue. Yeah, facility thirteen was a big ol' nothingburger, just like the airport. Maybe a dozen guys? They couldn't wait to surrender, it feels like a setup. What's up at twenty seven? You guys find Tails and Espio yet?\"\n\n \"Sonic!\" barked Knuckles into his wrist. \"Yeah, yeah, yeah! We got 'em, safe and sound! But there's a hundred or more J.S. here too, we're gonna bail! Meet us at the rendezvous point on the double!\"\n\n \"Fast as I can!\" yelled Sonic as more chatter came in. \"Save me some ass to kick!\"\n \n \"See you at the party, boys,\" crackled in Rouge, the sounds of accelerating landers and yelling agents in the background. \"I've got twenty G.U.N. elites and half a dozen mech crews ready to rock. ETA fifteen minutes.\"\n\n \"You're a goddess,\" huffed the echidna. \"Where's Shadow? He's gone dark!\"\n\n \"He's not with you?\" came the bat's puzzled reply. \"Hold up, we're rolling. I gotta go!\"\n\n \"Commander, come in!\" crackled Amy. \"Wave's group has secured their objective and are offering assistance! I can also send--um, let's see--I have fifteen trainees here! We can be there in--\"\n\n \"Wave yes, rookies no!\" yelled Knuckles, raising his fist. \"Don't leave HQ empty, we don't know what else might go down! Put those kids to work securing the place. Keep your eyes peeled and your hammer handy!\"\n\n \"Please be careful!\" she pleaded. \"I'll be waiting...\"\n\n \"Mmff. Good girl. Over and out!\" Puffing his chest, the echidna belted out the order. \"FALL BACK!\" His entire force began moving as one, flowing briskly back up the valley as jackals sounded the alarm. Mechs whirred to life, but sniper fire zipped in seconds later, cutting cables and puncturing hydraulics as gasses hissed and fluids oozed. Pilots ducked from view or screamed to be untethered; squad members hit the dirt or scrambled for cover as others gave chase. Covering the rear, Knuckles, Espio and Silver backed away from a column of war-crying jackals rushing to intercept. Through the din, Tails could hear Silver's hushed futurespeak as the hedgehog's arms and eyes began to glow a vivid ice blue. \n\n [i]Grace en Chaos Atara… ilya elementa, amin yala d'iin... Lle va'al naa, amin va'al. Lle grace naa, amin grace...[/i] \n\n The air around them suddenly grew thin and cold. The fox shivered. He could feel a swirling field of energy building around the hedgehog's body, which grew rigid as he stopped and prepared to strike, his knees bent and boots locked to the ground. The others watched wide-eyed as running and revving jackals closed within yards, raising their weapons up high. \n\n [i]Chaos Atara! Ilya elementa, amin yala d'iin... Lle va'al naa! AMIN VA'AL![/i]\n\n Like a flash flood, a roar rose through the valley as ephemeral waves began emanating from Silver's brilliant fingers. Small at first, they rose and swelled towards the jackals, some of whom gave pause at the strange sight challenging their advance. The first waves to hit were little more than rude shoves; the jackals guffawed and advanced, resolved to pummel the strange magician standing in their way. Silver's eyes turned shimmering white. He repeated the strange incantation as if possessed, body frozen and quills wafting as the waves built higher, becoming bluer and more luminous as they extended from him, his body now wreathed in a swirling aura. These were far less polite, pushing jackals back and knocking others over like a high tide; some began nervously turning tail as others looked to each other in confusion. And then the chaos wave appeared. Towering and ominous, it resembled an ocean wave, deep blue and shimmering, but it was transparent and crackled with telekinetic menace as it suddenly crashed through the valley. Those who saw or heard it coming froze in their tracks. Some turned and ran but were much too late, swept up in the irresistible grasp and bulldozed away. All manner of debris went with them, the valley washed clear until a jumble of jackals, bikes, brush, stones, weapons and tattered equipment reached the rear ranks, ensnaring them as well. As the wave ebbed and slowed, yelps of confusion, pain and fear mixed with calls for help. [i]\"Spare sen, Chaos Atara. Spare sen.\"[/i] With those words, the wave dissipated entirely, as did the hedgehog's glow. He slumped, panting with his hands to knees as his amazed passenger carefully slid from his back.\n\n \"You… you never told me you could do THAT,\" marveled Tails, patting his back.\n\n \"Senpai,\" bowed Espio to Silver, the ninja's hands clasped with fingers to forehead.\n\n \"Yeah! Holy shit, dude!\" blinked Knuckles, surveying the aftermath and shaking his head. \"Got any more of those?\"\n\n \"No,\" he panted, swallowing hard and shaking his head. \"Not for a while, anyway. I think I bought us some time, but it won't last. The chaos wave isn't lethal, it just pushes.\"\n\n \"Look at them,\" chuckled Espio, shading his eyes. \"What a mess. They deserve it though, the cutthroats. May as well push them off a cliff next time.\"\n\n \"I-- I'm not-- I don't--\" The hedgehog began to stammer, huffing and reddening as his fists clenched. \"The Chaos Mother... she gave me a gift. A sacred gift! One I must be w-worthy of! It's one thing to blow a butterfly off your nose…\" The hedgehog huffed and looked away, voice trembling as tears welled in his eyes. \"Quite another to smash it. I will NOT kill, Espio. I don't care how wicked they are!\"\n\n \"Hey-- hey now,\" calmed Knuckles, stepping in front of the upset hedgehog. He placed a hand on Silver's chest, patting gently. \"C'mon. Look at me.\" Silver's damp gold eyes looked up and searched the echidna's. \"It's all right, kiddo. What you did, you did for us. And I'm grateful. We're not out for blood, I get you. But those mutts don't feel the same way, you know? They needed some sense knocked into 'em. You showed courage, but also restraint. I'm very proud of you.\" Silver nodded and sniffed, wiping a tear and touching foreheads with the echidna, who smiled and clapped his shoulder. \"Let's be on our way.\"\n\n Tails took the hedgehog's hand and squeezed. \"You're one of the good guys, Silver. I don't like hurting people either.\" The hedgehog smiled softly and squeezed back with a nod.\n\n \"Please… forgive me, my friend,\" bowed Espio humbly, the blushing lizard's tail coiled tight as he clasped his hands together. \"I'm truly sorry, Silver. I spoke without thinking.\"\n\n \"Haven't we all?\" smiled Silver, closing his eyes as he and the ninja hugged tight. \n\n \"I… I owe you an apology too, Tails,\" nodded Espio, taking the fox's other hand. \"Several, really. The orders. Someone--\"\n\n \"Guys! Later,\" interrupted Knuckles, tilting his head and listening. Rumbling plumes of dust rose from the west as thunderheads began to blot out the setting sun. \"Looks like more bad guys. And the ones Silver took surfing don't look too happy either.\" He waved everyone on. \"Let's go!\" \n\n Jackals worked feverishly to untangle themselves and their scraped and jumbled comrades before resuming the pursuit, albeit far more cautiously. Vengeful howls arose behind the Resistance as they scrambled out of the valley and crested the ridge leading to the landers. All was strangely peaceful in the encroaching dusk. Dormant cones and vents ringed the arid plateau like ancient sentinels. Some wore cloaks of ash, cinder or greenery; others brooded in black basalt. Birds chirped and flitted amongst the scattered shrubs and weathered trees, the vanishing sun briefly brightening their bony trunks. As the air grew damp and cool, more thunderheads teased rain far to the south, their dusty orange and purple-pink anvils reaching for the emerging stars. But there was no time to admire the panorama. Crouched low, the fighters sprinted through dried grasses towards the landers as Knuckles and his pilots exchanged hushed rendezvous plans. It was then they heard the voice.\n\n [i]\"Leaving so soon?\"[/i] it boomed, freezing everyone in place. Smooth, deep and inflected with a metallic hum, it sent chills down the spines of all who recognized it. [i]\"It's rude to depart without greeting your host.\"[/i]\n\n \"Infinite!\" yelled Tails, pointing at dark shape in the sky. It descended amongst the clouds, lower and lower until the unmistakable figure appeared: sinewy limbs folded over his chest like mummy's; a long, bushy-tipped tail; long, flowing hair and a sinister crimson light that emanated from the left eye of a dark metal mask. A tingling aura of dread seemed to descend with the jackal, his white locks wafting as he hung between heaven and earth--and between the Resistance and their escape. Opening his arms as if in greeting, he revealed a bright pinkish-purple glow within his upper chest. Growing brighter, it merged with that of his blood-red gaze, expanding until his entire body was enveloped in layers of humming magenta malevolence. To the battered and regrouping pursuers, he cut a welcome sight, stirring them to chants and cheers as they rushed to crest the ridge. Even those whom the wave had waylaid answered from below, howling support as medics worked to clean and bandage them. Signalling to hold position, Knuckles glared skyward with the others, none too pleased.\n\n \"I was not expecting so many of you. How lovely,\" nodded Infinite, his voice echoing over the old lava flows. He extended his long fingers, wiggling them slowly as forklets of reddish-purple lightning danced about his claws. \"And you've given my squad quite the drubbing, despite being so pitifully outnumbered. Perhaps the Resistance is not as worthless as I remember...\"\n\n \"Come down here and find out for yourself,\" called Espio, the ninja stowing his shuriken as he and the others took fighting stances. \"We'll see who's worthless in a fight!\"\n\n \"A charming offer, [i]ninja,\"[/i] chuckled the jackal, extending an arm as his aura intensified. Curling his claws, he directed his hand at the chameleon. \"Here is my counteroffer.\" A massive, blinding bolt of purplish-crimson lightning shot from his hand. It barely missed the ninja, who dove away as a six foot crater exploded from the desert beneath his feet. Thunder clapped as a second bolt blew apart a nearby tree some had crept to for cover, pulverizing its gnarled trunk and sending fighters sprawling in the dirt. Smoldering shrapnel showered down as the valley rumbled. Bowing as if conducting an orchestra, the jackal hurled a third strike in front of Knuckles, Silver and Tails. As they hit the deck, the quick-thinking hedgehog telekinetically deflected most of the raining rocks and debris, but the strike was ear-splitting and choked the air with dust and ash.\n\n \"Son of a bitch!\" coughed Knuckles, shielding he and Tails' heads as rock clattered all around. \"Guess he—cough!—doesn't want to negotiate. Silver! Get the mask! Or at least knock him down so we can rush him!\"\n\n \"On it!\" gritted Silver, eyes tearing in the miasma as he took a deep breath and concentrated. Palms aglow once more, he squinted and focused on their assailant's mask, preparing to yank it off, but the sinister crimson eye suddenly shifted his direction. Extending gnarled fingers, the jackal blasted down a different bolt, shadowy and black with winking ruby embers. It struck Silver in the chest, dousing his glow and throwing his crackling body back against a low outcropping. Groaning in the dust as his eyes opened, he blurrily saw the others running to his aid as the jackal hovered beyond, arms folded in a show of indifference. Getting blown off his feet was one thing. It hurt, but no more than it had in other battles. It was the [i]other[/i] pain that left him speechless and gasping. Writhing eels of freezing, electrified blackness flooded his chest, twisting and thrashing through his body and limbs with mindless predatory glee. Panic and paralysis followed in their wake; an ordinary victim would have succumbed in seconds. But the youthful telekinetic fighter was anything but ordinary. He resisted from within, summoning deep reserves of energy. Like magnets clapping together, the hedgehog's heart and mind linked as one, passing dense, warming, purifying waves through himself, one after the other until the phantom energy was squeezed out like a venom. Anxious but amazed, Tails and others knelt at his side, rubbing his chest ruff and arms, but the determined hedgehog waved them off as he grunted and slowly levitated himself to his feet. He growled at Infinite, clenching his fists as his light blue glow burst back to life with a vengeance. \"Your energy is vile… sick… corrupted! I won't let you hurt others with it! I WILL bring you down!!\" Quills levitating as his glow grew, he weaved his hands in a fast, luminous figure eight, crouching and grunting as a nearby boulder the size of a bathtub suddenly vaulted skyward, trailing ancient dust as it tumbled up at the jackal. \n\n \"How childish,\" smirked Infinite, fingers to cheek. He gracefully levitated out of harm's way, but the straining hedgehog adjusted the trajectory at the last possible moment, failing to score a direct hit but still bashing the jackal's shoulder, punching him sideways and nearly dislodging the mask. Most could hear the jackal's muffled rage as he clutched his arm and screamed at the spinning mass as it sailed upwards. The glow in his chest went incandescent as he raised his arms and shot the rock with a blinding, two-handed crimson beam. Far more intense than the lightning, it instantly vaporized its target into thousands of molten bits that trailed orange and red across the sky like a massive firework. They rained down on friend and foe alike, filling the ridge and the valley below with shrieks and hollers. Clumps of dry vegetation briefly smoldered, then burst into flame. Fighters scrambled to peel off burning gear or slap embers off themselves and others. Winded and coughing into his arm, Silver shook his head at the hellish panorama. \"No… no!\"\n\n \"Come on, we can still help!\" choked Tails, eyes stinging as he quickly slapped burning bits from them both and grabbed the hedgehog's hand. Smoky and smudged, they joined Knuckles and Espio aiding others to their feet and checking for injuries as all kept a wary eye on the menace laughing in the sky.\n\n \"Ahhh… invigorating!\" rejoiced Infinite, hands to the heavens as he hovered closer to Silver and pointed, his claws sparking anew. \"Your valor impresses, silver one. Futile though it is. But for the sake of your friends, I suggest you keep your bag of telekinetic tricks [i]shut.\"[/i] Slashing the air, his arm blasted a bolt behind himself and through the windshield of the nearest lander, the deafening explosion pulverizing the hapless vehicle into fiery flying shreds as all ducked or dove. Pilots got up first, rushing in to kick burning wreckage away from the remaining landers, stomping fires and grabbing onboard extinguishers. The jackal crossed his arms and watched, chuckling at his handiwork. \"Now that the fireworks are concluded, we can get down to business.\" Claws unfurling, he suddenly descended, shoes thumping to earth inside a ring of ash. Troops backed away as the jackal sauntered up to the echidna, who held his ground. \"Ah, Commander Knuckles… the unmistakable pile of scowling red meat.\"\n\n \"All the better to choke you with,\" glowered the echidna, fists clenched and shoulders heaving. The others stood close, their untrusting glares locked on the enemy. \"Whatever you got to say, say it fast, fucker. You don't scare me in the least.\"\n\n \"Come now, at least be civil,\" mused the jackal, contemplating his hand as he summoned a fist-sized ball of phantom energy. \"I could have easily demolished your little band by now, saving you four for last. Like a sweet dessert! But I have not come to destroy.\"\n\n \"Pfft! Forgive us for assuming otherwise,\" guffawed Espio, hand on the hilt of his ninjatō as smoke billowed in all directions.\n\n \"Spare me your tongue, reptile,\" spat Infinite, tilting his head as he twirled the glowing sphere over his fingers. \"I am simply here... to collect something.\"\n\n \"A four way beating?\" peered Silver over his fists. \n\n \"How about another banishment?\" frowned Tails, mirroring Silver.\n\n \"Mmm… neither,\" smirked Infinite, passing the orb between his hands. \"Though banishment did do me wonders, I confess. You see, null space is harsh. And very unforgiving. Much like this rift, many who enter fail to return. The endless gloom… the crushing loneliness… killing for every scrap of food, every lap of moisture… nights of sleepless dread, listening to void beasts cackle and slither, sniffing about for you, a mere piece of meat to be ripped and swallowed. I outwitted… and exterminated them. In time, I grew far stronger than when I entered, but the world I'd beaten was still just a prison. Without a phantom ruby, the gateway to this world--the world I was meant to conquer--remained forever shut. Imagine my surprise, then, when someone appeared from the mists… and gave me this,\" he grinned, patting the glow on his chest.\n\n \"How thoughtful,\" scowled the Echidna, tightening his fists. \"Who was it?\"\n\n \"I wish I knew,\" he shrugged, fingers swirling the orb like a glass of dark wine. \"Apparently, I've a secret benefactor. One who approves of my destiny. My spies tried to find out, but without success. They did learn, though, that you lot think you have all the rubies. Even the synthetic ones Eggman was developing,\" he snickered, shaking his head. \"Such adorable optimism.\"\n\n \"You're not getting your hands on them,\" glared Espio, taking a step closer. \"That is a promise.\"\n\n \"I have all the ones you fools don't!\" hissed the jackal, pointing a claw as the orb brightened and quaked. \"And the rest shall follow, as sure as the horn on your smug little face, NINJA!\" Huffing and calming himself, he waved his hand. \"But that... will wait. The fool Eggman cracked after Sonic cheated his victory from me. I could care less about them now, but I need to finish certain… items Eggman had in his possession. I have the plans and parts. Now all I need is Eggman's replacement.\" The jackal fixed his eye on the fox. \"Hello, Tails.\" \n\n \"W-what!?\" gasped the fox, slowly shaking his head as the jackal stepped closer. Knuckles, Espio and Silver glowered, closing protectively around him. \n\n Laughing at the fox's surprise, the jackal nodded slowly and squeezed the energy ball nearly to bursting. \"Oh, I [i]am[/i] looking forward to having you, my ingenious friend. I'm a great fan of your work, as are my spies! You'll be at my side, day and night, giving me your… services. And you, ninja. Since you are so eager to get under my skin, you too shall surrender. The squadmates you attacked have much to discuss with you.\" The jackal laughed, drawing a line across his throat as the nonplussed lizard unsheathed more of his ninjatō. \"Mmmmm… I'll take your snipers as well, Commander. The two wolves, cowering in the crevices like fleas on a mongrel.\" Clutching their rifles in their rocky redoubts, Whisper and Buddy growled as their hackles raised. \"I've every faith in your abilities, Tails,\" he smirked at the appalled fox, \"but I feel you will do your best work knowing others will suffer terribly if you don't.\" \n\n \"If it's hostages you want, take me,\" glared Silver, stepping forward. \"Leave the others.\"\n\n \"Ah! More brainless-- I mean, boundless bravery,\" scowled the jackal, bursting the ball in his fist. A moment later, it rekindled in the other hand. \"Tell me, silver one. Can [i]you[/i] finish the weapons for my army? What about Sonic? Or the putrid Shadow? He is good at firing weapons, surely he can build them as well! Or perhaps that pink girl, the one who runs your pitiful base!? No!? The last thing I need is a prison camp filled with rebellious hedgehog dimwits! What I need... is this fox.\" Raising his hand, he watched the luminescent bubble roll over the back of his fingers. \"I suppose I got good intel out of Scourge, that green degenerate you paid to track me down. Nothing like Tails possesses, but useful enough to barter his life. My guards adored him. Cards, dice, boxing, tattoos, buggery… quite the morale boost.\"\n\n \"So that's why he went dark,\" muttered Knuckles, shaking his head. \"Great story, Mask-o the Clown. But I'm afraid you're gonna go away empty-handed, unless you count my boot up your ass.\"\n\n \"Insolent fools!\" hissed Infinite, the ball suddenly flaming larger as his aura grew fiery and dark, crackling as he advanced on the others, who stepped back and shielded their eyes. \"GO ON! Have swing at me, you colossal stack of brainless MEAT! Signal your snipers! Have your troops open fire! Let your telekinetic pretty boy toss more RUBBISH at me! DO IT! That way I'll know EXACTLY whom to incinerate FIRST!\"\n\n \"Hold… hold your fire, guys,\" signaled Knuckles, glowering with a sigh. \"Can't hit the baby inside his bubble anyway.\"\n\n \"At LAST, some reason! Will wonders never CEASE!?\" spat Infinite, waving over the jackals entering the perimeter. \"You may very well have just spared your own lives, echidna. But your intransigence will cost you more hostages. There--that trio of G.U.N. vermin—they will do nicely,\" he pointed, singling out Valdis and two of the fox's comrades, a long haired purple hedgehog and a pink tattooed rabbit girl. The black-vested trio glanced at each other nervously as the jackal slowly rose back into the air. \"You have wasted enough of my time. No doubt you've called in reinforcements to come and bore me to death.\" Voice booming once more, he pointed the unlucky bunch towards his squad. \"You seven! Tails, ninja, snipers, G.U.N. lackeys… go! Anyone who interferes or tries to run away…\" He shot a fiery red beam straight down, encapsulating a tall cactus. The hapless succulent instantly boiled and withered, popping and splitting as its spines burst into flames. Its ‘arms' dropped off, leaving grotesque sockets that hissed with steam. As the beam was withdrawn, what remained fell over into bubbling, gelatinous heap of goo. Eyes were still transfixed on the macabre sight when a new voice rolled in. \n\n \"Prisoners! Welcome to the Jackal Squad! I am Captain Kohal!\" Fit and fairly tall, the slate-gray jackal had a barreled chest and steely, ice-blue eyes. Bushy white hair matched the thick chest ruff protruding from a black leather vest adorned with a modest accumulation of pins and medals. A jeweled, oiled-black machete hung at his side, complimenting his shiny old school combat boots, a veteran amongst rabble. Flanked by a pair of young lieutenants, he confidently called through cupped hand as dozens of other jackals closed in behind. \"Drop all weapons! Remove all clothing and shoes... and march towards me with your hands UP!\"\n\n \"They'll calm down once you're shackled,\" gloated Infinite, turning to the others and charging his hands. \"The rest of you--board your vehicles and flee! I'm feeling generous. You have sixty seconds.\"\n\n \"Generous? You gutless cur!\" shouted Espio through the steam and smoke as Whisper, Buddy and the G.U.N. trio began to dejectedly shed their gear. \"You've no real power! Some might believe your null space nonsense, but I know you're nothing without that glowing bauble!\" he spat, unsheathing his blade and pointing it at his nemesis, who folded his arms and glared. \"You lured me… tricked me into betraying my friends! Mark my words, dog. Dishonoring a ninja carries a [i]steep[/i] price. And sooner or later… EEEEYYAAH!\" The ninja's glinting blade sliced a perfect horizontal arc nearly all the way around his poised body, neatly decapitating a small tree to his side. As onlookers blinked in mute surprise, the canopy slid down, then crashed aside, sending leaves and flower petals fluttering elegantly around the motionless lizard. He then thrust his blade towards his foe. \"You shall pay.\"\n\n \"Yeah, don't go anywhere, guys!\" yelled Tails, stepping before the others, fists at his sides as his namesakes twitched. He stood below the jackal and pointed. \"I'm the one you really want, huh? Well, guess what! All your stupid plans and threats and schemes don't mean anything without me! Nobody knows those prototypes better,\" he nodded, thumbing his chest. \"The plans, the materials, the components, the phantom drives, all the configurations... nobody, not even Eggman! My team and I are WAY past where you guys were. And once we've learned all we can, we're gonna destroy every last piece! And then lock the phantom rubies away so jerks like you can't--\"\n\n \"I grow weary of this,\" sighed Infinite, his crimson eyehole flaring. Punching his glowing chest, the jackal suddenly winked from view, leaving only a few red sparks wafting in his place. Seconds later, as Tails and others apprehensively glanced around, he materialized face-to-face with the fox, shoes crunching the gritty ground as grabbed the wide-eyed vulpine's throat and lifted. Tails instinctively grabbed his arm with both hands and tried to struggle free, but as Knuckles, Silver and Espio charged in, the pair vanished.\n\n \"What the-- NO!\" roared Knuckles, casting about frantically before punching the ground, sending dust and small rocks flying. \"Give him back, you fucking mutt!\" More agonizing moments passed as the echidna and others scanned the sky or towards Captain Kohal, who seemed equally perplexed. The echidna's patience had ended. \"Resistance! If that dung-eating dingo doesn't bring Tails back in TEN seconds, you will ALL open fire, starting with the Captain here!\" he bellowed, pointing at Captain Kohal. With their leader suddenly gone and the echidna enraged, the jackals' blood drained from their faces as weapons of every sort clicked, strained or powered up and swung towards them in unison. \"TEN! NINE! EIGHT! SEVEN!\"\n\n \"Wait! No!\" pleaded Kohal, hands up as most of his contingent but for the two lieutenants began to scatter, running for cover, distance or both. \"Hold your fire! I--I don't know where they are!\"\n\n \"You better find out!\" commanded Knuckles, pointing at his face. \"SIX! FIVE! FOUR!\"\n\n \"He always comes back to us, I swear!\" sweated Kohal, arms going higher as his deserting comrades ran at top speed back down to the valley, some tossing their weapons as they fled. \"I've no way to contact him in… in that… nulled space, whatever it's called! Please! Give me more time!\"\n\n \"Here's two seconds,\" offered Knuckles, flipping double birds. \"SIX! FIVE! FOUR! THREE!\"\n\n \"Gah! I-- I surrender! WE surrender!\" begged the jackal, ears flat as he fell to his knees. Copying their leader, his terrified lieutenants followed suit and clung to him. \"He wouldn't hurt your friend, Commander! The fox is much too valuable, it's all he talked about! P-please!\" he quivered, on the verge of tears. \"Spare my niece and nephew at least!\"\n\n The echidna's great shoulders trembled with rage, then slumped. \"Two,\" he whispered to himself, shaking his head and rubbing the bridge of his nose. Falling silent, he turned and punched an outcropping, sending huge cracks rumbling down into its rocky depths. Espio patted the echidna's back as he took deep breaths with his eyes closed. \"Just give a minute.\"\n\n \"Stand down, everyone,\" calmed the ninja, the trembling trio of abandoned jackals heaving a sigh of relief as weapons lowered and powered down. \"We'll need to keep searching.\" \n\n \"No! Wait! They're still here!\" shouted Silver, fingers to the side of his head as his other hand glowed skyward. \"The ruby is… faltering? I feel it, but… I shouldn't. Not if it's in null space.\" He shook his head and squinted. \"Why is it doing that?\"\n\n Gazing skyward as she put her coat back on, Whisper gasped softly and grabbed Buddy's wrist, tugging and pointing. The red wolf adjusted his glasses and shouted excitedly. \"Hey, you're right! Everyone, look!\" \n\n A crimson glow emerged against the darkening sky, then flashed bright as the pair suddenly rematerialized hundreds of feet above, the jackal giving an anguished yelp heard by those on the ground. They could make out few details, but all could see that wherever the jackal had hoped to strongarm the fox, the two-tailed hero was having none of it. Namesakes whirring as he snarled, Tails grappled and pushed against the jackal, who now bore impressive scratch and bite marks on his arms, ears and chest. A thin line of blood flowed from under his mask where he'd been headbutted. Preventing the fox's escape meant trying to hold onto an enraged propeller, one with fists. Fighters below watched as freshly uprooted clumps of black and white jackal fur drifted down from the sky. Taken aback by the young engineer's ferocity, the jackal grabbed his unruly orange bangs and twisted, hoping to wrest control. Tails growled and grunted, legs kicking as his eyes teared up from the pain, which rose as phantom energy crept in like a toxin. As Silver had felt before him, the strange force was like a frigid, shocking entity, digging into his brain like poisonous migraine paralyzing its way to submission. Gnashing his teeth as adrenaline flowed, the fox pried at the fist, but as strong as he was, the ruby-enhanced jackal was stronger. Thinking fast as his face numbed and vision blackened, the fox gripped his abductor's arm as tight as possible, using it for leverage as he swung in and stomped the jackal's sizable bulge as hard as he could.\n\n \"Grrrffffhrrraaaaaww!\" The shocked canine's crimson eye went wide as his aura flickered. Stamina drained as deep pain began curdling his body. He struggled to breathe but kept his iron grip, hoping to finish the fox's incapacitation as he waited for the worst of the pain to pass. It was a terrible miscalculation. Swinging back and revving his tails, the fox landed a second, two-footed stomp on the very same spot. A deep, nauseous groan oozed from the jackal as his grip finally failed. He curled inward, cradling his tenderized jewels. \"You… will suffer for that,\" he wheezed, slinking slowly.\n\n \"Here's my counteroffer!\" Rearing back, Tails zeroed in on the jackal foot first, using the glowing ruby as a target. The flying kick landed with a satisfying thud, punching the jackal's chest dead-on and sending him backwards with a groan. As the hideous inky pain dissipated from his head, the panting fox wiped away tears and clenched his fists, scowling at his would-be abductor. \"Time to unmask you, loser,\" he muttered to himself, but as he prepared to lunge, he noticed a tiny red light flashing on his wrist communicator and paused. As the sputtering jackal steadied himself and shook his head, the fox grinned snarkily, turning tails and smacking his perky orange rump at the foe. \"Enjoy the view! But I wouldn't stick around if I was you.\" The fox then dove away at top speed.\n\n \"Miserable freak!\" gnashed Infinite, tears leaking below his mask as he clutched his chest and crotch, the ruby flaring bright. Shaking off the pain, he aimed his quivering claws at the diving vulpine, his arm crackling and hissing with magenta barbs as the closing thunderstorms flared and rumbled. \"This ought to end your stupidity, make you easier to transport...\" An intense white flash cracked like shotgun, illuminating the shocked faces below. \n\n A crushing blow came from behind. The impact burst the air from the jackal's lungs, blurred his vision and rattled his teeth. He felt himself tumbling head over heels through blackness before slowing, caught from behind in arms that were immensely strong. One hooked his neck as the other ripped off his mask, its blood red eye dimming as it plummeted to the rocks below. As his aura faded, the grasping jackal blearily glimpsed a white glove snatch his wrist and yank it behind his back. \"GRAAGH!\" he growled, nose flaring as he clawed at the chokehold. \"I warned you, silver one! Now I'll KILL you!\" \n\n \"Wrong hedgehog,\" came the reply into his ear, the tackler's voice low and confident as he wrestled the pair to a halt high above the crowd. \"But I'm proud he managed to annoy you.\"\n\n [i]\"Shhhadow…\"[/i] The name dripped from the jackal's snarled lip with venomous contempt. Rage rekindled his fit frame. Without the mask to concentrate it, the phantom energy flooded the hedgehog instead. Boiling ropes of gut-wrenching, freezing-yet-searing pain seeped into his body, cramping and stunning as they went. Captor found himself captive, grimacing from the unexpected anguish as he was pinned like a magnet. Sinking claws into his foe's forearm, the reenergized jackal rocketed hundreds of feet higher into the rumbling, lightning-lit sky. Struggling against the numbing, nauseating pain, Shadow fired his shoes at max, slowing their dizzying ascent, but as the air grew cold and damp, the jackal stopped on his own, clenching his fists and concentrating with all his might. Like flak reaching its apex, the canine exploded a brilliant, ear-splitting burst of raw energy from his chest, blowing the pair apart head over heels. The bone-crunching wallop freed the hedgehog, groaning and coughing as stinging phantom tendrils dissipated down his limbs. The smoldering duo gasped as they drifted, each struggling just to stay aloft.\n\n \"As I thought,\" chuckled Shadow hoarsely, brushing off his chest and righting himself. He wiped his eye and shook out his quills. \"The ruby you carry... is flawed. Still highly potent. But without the mask…\" He grinned and punched his palm. \"Prepare yourself.\" Drawing back his fist, the obsidian fighter rocketed at the dazed, coughing jackal, who managed to lift a crackling hand. It hummed with ominous force, but the aura that had stopped so many was now just a reddish haze. Shooting right through it, the black and red blur landed a ferocious right hook. Spittle and snot burst from the jackal's contorted face as the energy shot from his flailing hands, sending ruby bolts of lightning skyward and into the desert. Whipping around as thunder cracked, the hedgehog grappled again from behind, but the staggered jackal managed to slip a hand between their struggling torsos and twist the hedgehog's crotch.\n\n The hedgehog's guttural growl filled Infinite's ears. \"Release me!\" croaked the jackal, gasping for air and twisting harder. He was answered by a punch to the kidney that broke both males' grips. Clutching their respective pains, the panting, red-faced warriors turned and sized each other up through the swirling, stormy skies. Thrilled by Tails' escape and Shadow appearing quite literally out of nowhere, Knuckles and the others now watched with measure of dread as droplets began falling. Everyone knew at least some the dark figures' story. The depths of their enmity. How bitter and personal it was. How eager one might be to destroy the other--and perhaps any who got in the way. The jackals probing the perimeter to rescue their three comrades quickly abandoned the area. Knuckles and his crew were thinking much the same.\n\n \"Resistance!\" called Knuckles, eyeing the newest crater, \"take cover! This is gonna get ugly!\" Espio, Silver and Tails set about helping others towards a low, rocky ridge adjacent to the landers while the echidna turned to the three confused jackals. \"Hey. You guys all right?\" He blushed as he rubbed the back of his neck. \"Um, before you answer, I uh… we'd never attack unarmed folks.\" He wiped his brow, choosing words carefully as the trio listened anxiously. \"Or someone surrendering. Hell, you two of you don't even look old enough to be fighting,\" he nodded at the lieutenants, who nervously clutched their uncle's arms. \"Anyways, that's not how we roll.\"\n\n \"I'm glad to hear it, Commander Knuckles,\" chuckled Kohal nervously, looking down and brushing off his thighs. \"Very convincing, though. I think I pissed myself.\" \n\n \"You know who I am?\" puzzled the echidna, cocking an eye.\n\n \"We all do,\" nodded Kohal, his cohorts following suit. Despite his predicament, the captain projected dignity and calm; his eyes were soft and conciliatory. As the two younger jackals watched, he reached for his machete, taking hold of the blade and offering the handle to Knuckles. \"Your mettle and fearlessness are respected in my squad, even in these unfortunate times. My family are honorable too, Commander. This is yours now.\"\n\n \"Nah,\" shrugged Knuckles, shaking his head. \"Keep it… Captain. I like a family man, your word is good enough.\" The jackal and lieutenants blinked in disbelief. They nearly stumbled to stand, each bowing gratefully to the echidna, wagging and clasping his hands. \"Hey, what's this, now?\" he chuckled, the relieved young canines reminding him much of his rookies back at base. \"We need to get out of here.\"\n\n \"I-Infinite says you guys destroy prisoners, Commander Nickles,\" offered Kohal's first lieutenant, a lanky slate and white youth in plain leather hiking boots, a camouflage vest and crimson beret perched atop moppy white hair. Half a head shorter than his uncle, he had a spiked wooden club in a leather carrying strap on his back. \"Um… and if he finds out we surrendered on him...\" The jackals all glanced at each other anxiously. \"Well, let's just say we're not welcome back. Not for a while, anyways.\"\n\n \"A while? That's a year's banishment, Kael!\" frowned the second lieutenant, nervously rubbing the handle of a curved dagger sheathed at her side. Colored like her sibling, she was shorter still but had a bushy white mohawk that made up much of the difference. Dressed in an olive green tank top, black hikers and dark gloves that all seemed a size too big, she looked hopefully up at Knuckles with bright gold eyes. \"But you guys are trying to catch cousin Infinite. Right?\"\n\n \"Cousin? Well yeah, we are, if he doesn't take Shadow out and blow us all up,\" grumbled Knuckles, rolling his eyes. \"Listen, uh… what was your name, kid?\"\n\n \"It's Korba!\" she beamed, proudly tossing back her bushy stripe.\n\n \"Well Korba, your cousin's a liar,\" continued Knuckles, hunkering down. \"We don't hurt prisoners, ever. Okay? We don't even make 'em break up rocks anymore, which is a great workout by the way. Anyways, I'm putting you three in my custody. Not like prisoners really, but for your own safety you gotta stick with me. I don't want Infinite hurting you guys either, or my own folks if they get confused.\" The echidna stood face to face with Kohal and offered his fist. \"Deal?\"\n\n \"Deal,\" nodded Kohal, bumping with resolute smile. \"Thank you.\"\n\n \"Me too!\" bumped Kael. \"Thank you, Commander Nickles.\"\n\n \"It's Knuckles. [i]Knuckles,\"[/i] chuckled the echidna, bumping back. \"You know, like… knuckles?\"\n\n \"Me! I want to bump with Nick--er--Knuckles too!\" nodded Korba, squeezing in and bumping as well. Massive, sky-wide wraiths of both ruby and regular lightning fanned out across the sky, the ungodly thunderclap startling all as still-burning fires began to hiss under droplets of rain. \"Holy shit! Did cousin Infinite do that!?\"\n\n \"Sis! Language!\" hushed Kael, the males grabbing her hands as the echidna pointed the way.\n\n \"Go, go, go!\" shooed Knuckles, running behind the rest. \n\n The skies rumbled long and hard as the two fighters' blows and counterstrikes intensified. The obsidian hedgehog's crossed fists spared his head from a ferocious flying kick, the latest of many, but a spinning follow-up connected at last, bashing his jaw and cutting his lip. \"Ah! The ultimate one bleeeeeds,\" jeered the jackal, pointing at the gash. He levitated a few crimson droplets from his opponent's cheek to his fingertips and tasted. \"Mmmph… your destruction begins,\" he grinned, fangs tinted red as he recharged his fists and feet for a fresh assault. \"I shall savor it!\"\n\n \"Glad you like how I taste,\" smirked the hedgehog, panting as he calmly wiped his chin on the back of his glove and took a defensive stance. \"You'll be getting a lot more of me soon. On your knees… in a collar and leash.\"\n\n \"Delusional,\" spat the jackal, his glee evaporating as his limbs flared brighter. \"The second you are gone, hedgehog, this world is [i]mine.[/i] Your pathetic friends, your loves, your pointless secrets and ambitions… all shall join you in oblivion!\"\n\n \"Sorry, my friends and I aren't going anywhere,\" laughed the hedgehog, shaking his head as he adjusted his bloodstained glove. \"And a feral cur like you clearly needs a strong, firm master to tame him. [i]I[/i] am that master.\"\n\n \"DON'T use that word with me, you miserable, withered CUNT!\" barked the jackal, eyes wide and chest puffing with wrath as the fuzzy red glow nearly obscured his body. His sizable organ twitched to life as well, an inopportune side effect both males noticed at once. Blushing hotly, the jackal clapped a hand over the unwanted intrusion as the hedgehog grinned confidently behind raised fists. \"I… am no one's PET!\"\n\n \"Your body begs to differ,\" nodded Shadow, eyes brightening as he sensed opportunity. \"It could be just nerves, knowing I could [i]dominate[/i] you at will. Yesssss. But I know you, Infinite. And I know your type. You'll deny it to hell and back, but your lust for power masks a deep-seated craving for attention. You yearn for affection. Discipline. A guiding hand. A loving touch. All the things you've wanted, but never had…\"\n\n The jackal seemed aghast. \"What are you… talking about!?\"\n\n \"Don't deny it, boy,\" peered Shadow, adjusting his glove. \"You were always alone. Even with your squad, even before your banishment. I admit, I was cruel then. Far more than was necessary to stop you. But I have changed, and you no longer need to be the frightened stray you've become. Surrender, pet. As master, I will redeem you.\"\n\n \"Fuh-- Faggot!\" gnashed the incensed jackal, hackles rising as gold and blue eyes grew bloodshot with building rage. \"How [i]dare[/i] you patronize me! Your end will be excr--\"\n\n \"Your threats are empty,\" interrupted the hedgehog, eyes narrowing to steely slits as he subtly groped himself. \"I see the fear in your eyes, the anger. You are right to be upset with me. But you're no more capable of destroying me than a worm,\" he rumbled, hovering slowly closer as the jackal backed away. \"You... will [i]obey[/i] my every command. But fear not... for I am a merciful master. I will give you the life, the love, the purpose you've never had. You'll be weak no longer…\"\n\n \"SILENCE!\" screeched the jackal hoarsely, spittle flying, shaking his head as his fists clenched and trembled above a growing, rage-fueled erection. \"Stop saying those things!!\n\n \"Submit,\" pressed the hedgehog, his outline glowing with a faint golden hue. \"Your soul… it begs, it [i]pleads[/i] for love to nourish it... with every fiber of its being… but you starve it, endlessly. Why?\" he queried, arms open and honest.\n\n \"Get BACK!\" hollered Infinite, drifting backwards as he clawed his chest with one hand and tried to cover his veiny, upturned rod with the other. Quills wafting angelically, the advancing hedgehog gently grasped and waved his own larger assets, pendulous, dark and thick. The jackal's throat squeaked as his softly glowing opponent came face to face. Frozen by equal parts fascination and fear, he shook his head, unable to speak, glancing downward as he panted through clenched teeth.\n\n \"Do you like it, my pet?\" murred Shadow confidently as their knees and bulges touched. \"Ah, yesss… you got a good feel for it earlier, didn't you? Once you open to me, lay bare your heart… then it shall be yours. You will come running for it every chance you get. Kneeling, wagging, smiling up at me… those lovely two-tone eyes meeting mine as you suckle…\" He reached up and gently stroked the jackal's soft locks. \"Soon, Master will have you on all fours… howling my name as I breed you, my pretty little bitch.\"\n\n \"RRRAAAAAGGGHHH!\" \n\n The incendiary jackal's fist shot straight for Shadow's eyes. His ploy having worked, the agile hedgehog weaved gracefully aside, evading the blow by a quill's breadth as the wind brushed his face like a passing bullet. Elegantly he wheeled about, observing his enraged opponent as if in slow motion. He could not help but admire the fierce canine's fit form and endowments for the fleeting moments they were in view, engorged and swaying as their owner lunged; a specimen both attractive and dangerous, poised in combat like an ancient statue. But the reverie had to end for now. Inhibitor rings flashing faintly, he landed a single calculated punch to the gut and watched as the shockwave reverberated through the jackal's body and crumpled it like a ragdoll. The fighters' auras winked out. Eyes wide and unable to inhale, the stunned jackal's arms flailed as he pitched headlong into freefall, down towards the same rocks that had claimed his mask. The hedgehog dove after him, head first and fast as a falcon. With precise thrusts, he snatched the jackal midair a few stories above the unforgiving basalt. Groaning softly, the limp jackal revived, clinging and coughing in the hedgehog's embrace. Taking no chances, his captor yanked the jackal's white scarf from his neck and tore it, revealing a large phantom ruby. \"You won't be needing this,\" panted Shadow. Turning the lightly flawed but mesmerizing gem in his fingers, his face glowed side by side with that of his winded captive as the hedgehog spoke into his glove. \"Silver! Catch.\" Infinite watched helplessly as Shadow discarded the ruby like a wormy apple before using his tattered scarf to tie his hands behind his back. \n\n \"Is that-- wow! You got it!\" crackled Silver's response. Sparkling even in evening's gloom, the plummeting ruby suddenly veered to the hedgehog's glowing, outstretched hand. Catching and cradling it, he peered deep into its facets, marveling at the malevolent swirls within. Others looked on, most excitedly, some with dread. \"Item secure. Way to go, Shadow!\" \n\n \"Thanks,\" replied the hedgehog, testing the jackal's binds, \"get it out of here as soon as you can. You know where. I'll be down with our other prize shortly.\" Seeing their dreaded enemy subdued, Resistance and G.U.N. fighters began to cheer, clap and high five, pumping and bumping many a fist. By contrast, their jackal counterparts watching from the valley floor stood in silent, blinking shock. A few cast daggers with their eyes towards Kohal and his lieutenants, who stood, smiling and relieved with the victors. Bit by bit, pockets of jackals dejectedly mounted motorcycles, old offroad vehicles, hoverboards and ATVs before revving off into the drizzly, darkening distance. \"Hmph. Your squad seems content to desert you,\" observed Shadow, patting the jackal's firm rump and giving it a good squeeze. \"Good thing you have me to look after you now.\"\n\n \"D-dolt,\" coughed Infinite, the corners of his mouth flecked with spittle as he shook his head. \"They leave to avoid capture. They know I shall return. WITH my ruby. Stolen by a cheater… a liar. A degenerate, cocksucking thief...\"\n\n \"The term you're looking for is master,\" smirked Shadow, patting the the jackal down with his bulge pressed safely out of reach beneath the other male's rump. As the victor checked nooks and crannies, the vanquished squirmed and scowled, tugging at his bonds. \"But it's your first day, so I'll give it a pass. Your life is about to change dramatically, my pet.\"\n\n \"Stop calling me that! I will not submit to you, you—ah!\" The jackal gasped as a muscular hand suddenly thrust between this thighs from behind. Firm, experienced fingers probed and groped along his crevice and taint and behind his balls before slipping to the front. \"Gah! W-what are you looking for!? You've already taken my ruby, stop feeling me up like a common whore!\"\n \n \"Would you rather I let you plummet?\" glared the hedgehog. \"It would be just like you to conceal a second ruby… and the height of idiocy to not check for it. Hold still,\" he grumbled, sliding his hand flatly over the jackal's thighs, groin, belly and chest. Reaching down, he unstrapped and yanked off each of the jackal's shoes, peering inside before tossing them away.\n\n \"Hey!\" blinked Infinite, toes curling coldly in his socks. \"You could have just asked me!\"\n\n \"Could I have?\" smirked Shadow, patting the jackal's chest. \"No loss, they're filthy. And they're not permitted in the detention facility anyway.\" Satisfied no rude surprises lay in wait as his prisoner sulked, the hedgehog wiped his brow and began a controlled descent. \"I may as well tell you that you won't be banished again. Clearly that approach failed you as badly as it failed us. I've arranged to have you remanded to G.U.N. custody this time. I will personally oversee your rehabilitation.\" \n\n \"Rehabilitation?\" scoffed the jackal, cocking an eye. \"You mean press-gang me into your little harem? Filthy old hog! I know what you want to do to me, you were abundantly clear about it. I'd rather be banished!\"\n\n \"I'd like to see banishment get you that hard,\" smirked the hedgehog, giving the jackal a teasing grope. \"But I am glad to learn we are… of a kind. I'm not surprised, really.\"\n\n \"What you did to me was cheating! It was cheap! And... humiliating,\" grumbled the jackal as they descended. \"Even if I want… wanted those… those things… which I don't!! You didn't ha-have to…\" His growled in frustration and clammed up.\n\n \"Didn't have to what?\" asked Shadow matter-of-factly, eyeing a suitable landing spot. \"We're still alone. I am listening.\" The jackal merely huffed, looking away and shaking his head. Pausing their descent, Shadow turned the jackal's chin, their faces inches apart as he peered studiously into the other male's bloodshot eyes. \"You felt shame just now? Good. That means you actually have some. Buried under that festering cauldron of arrogance and anger. Catching you was the easy part. Freeing your heart will be a challenge. But I am not known for giving up.\"\n\n \"W--what?\" The jackal blinked in disbelief. He tried to speak, but all that came out was a flustered whine as his face grew redder. The hedgehog smiled gently and kissed his cheek, worsening the bewilderment. \n\n Circling in from above, more landers touched down by the others and began disgorging reinforcements. \"Ah! Blue butt-- er, Sonic arrives. Just in time to greet you.\"\n\n \"Sonic!?\" cringed the jackal, ears clamping down as he shook his head and tucked his tail over his crotch. \"Don't… I don't want him to see me like this! Please! Just throw me in a cell!\" \n\n \"Nervous? Imagine that!\" laughed the hedgehog as Knuckles and the others made way, \"Did you know, that even after everything you did to him, the big blue dope was still adamant you be given another chance? You! And now you can't bear to look him in the eyes. Now tell me, boy. Who is the weak one in [i]that[/i] equation?\" The mortified jackal huffed, averting any eye contact as they touched down in the excited crowd. \n \n \"Ayyyyy, look what the hero dragged in!\" cheered Knuckles as the throng greeted them. Fighters in all directions hollered for joy or clapped each other's backs, bumping fists and high fiveing. Stepping up, the big red commander offered a fist to Shadow, who bumped and nodded with a smile. Knuckles clapped the fighter's shoulder and smirked at the jackal. \"Well, well, well. Welcome to the Resistance, Infinite! Or maybe I'll just call us the winners, hehe. Sorry your squad can't be here too, they all decided to beat cheeks. Except for these guys, since they're not cowards,\" he smiled, thumbing behind himself at Kohal, Kael and Korba.\n\n Infinite's eye twitched. \"Kohal...\" he glowered, pulling against Shadow's hold as the captain and his lieutenants watched apprehensively from behind the echidna. \"What is this red lummox yabbering about!? Traitors! So help me, if you clots conspired with these fools, I'll burn--\"\n\n \"Ah, ah, ah! Bad dog!\" glared Knuckles, cupping the jackal's chin and shaking his head. The muscular echidna locked eyes with the jackal. \"Don't. Threaten. Anyone. If it was up to me, I'd have you breaking up rocks all day for a year, then banish your bitch ass all over again. Comprende?\" Beads of sweat formed on the jackal's brow as he breathed hard through his nose, eventually nodding in the echidna's palm. Knuckles nodded back, unknowingly patting the jackal's bruised cheek. \"Good boy.\" As the jackal winced, Resistance fighters pressed in for a closer look and began to jeer, his tingling face turning red and hot. \n\n[i]So that's him? He ain't so big! Yeah, enjoy your takedown, you fukkin' loser? WooOOooOO! Kick his ass! My dad was in Death Egg Prison 'cos of you! Can't wait to tell him you went down crying like a bitch! Piece of shit! Not so tough now, are ya!? Go, ResistAAAAANCE! Yeah, look me in eye, bitch! Haw haw! Naw, he's Shadow's bitch now! Bend over, pussy-boy! S'matter, fleabag? You gonna cry?[/i]\n\n \"That's enough,\" commanded Knuckles, slicing the air with his hand as the soft rain slowly doused the fires. \"I know you guys have made a lot of sacrifices. Your friends, your families too. Gave up a lot just to serve. Some of you twice! And for that, I am truly and deeply grateful.\" The echidna thumbed towards the barefoot captive, who hung his head with ears flat. \"Infinite will answer for what he's done, I promise. But thanks to you guys, him and his squad never did what they set out to do. No weapons, no war. And no hostages! So don't let this guy own your feelings. We're better than him, and we won! This is OUR day! I'm proud of it, and I'm proud of you! Go, Resistance!\" The assembled fighters echoed the cheer over and over, rejoicing as Espio and Silver nodded and patted Knuckles and Shadow's shoulders.\n\n \"Well said, Commander,\" bowed Espio, turning to Shadow and bowing again. \"Superb moves, Master.\" Infinite's ear perked at the title. He glanced apprehensively at the ninja, who glanced back with a satisfied smirk. \"I'll see you in my prison mediation class… pet.\" \n\n \"Excellent work, Shadow,\" smiled Silver, patting the hedgehog's back. \"Your hunch about the mask was true. I'm sorry I couldn't take it myself.\"\n\n \"You've nothing to apologize for,\" smiled Shadow back, petting Silver's ruff affectionately. \"But we should probably recover it, lest it fall into the wrong hands. See if you can sense it, I can get a crew together to help if you need.\" \n\n \"Sorry I'm late!\" came a winded voice from the end of the ridge. \"I told you guys to leave me some ass to kick, but nooooo, hehe. Whoa!\" The blue hedgehog's sharp green eyes widened at the sight of the bested jackal at Shadow's side. \"So all the radio chatter was true. Awesome! Hey, Infinite. Long time no see,\" he snickered as the blushing jackal averted eye contact. \"Man, you look rough. Don't worry about not shaking hands, Shadow's knots are pretty good,\" he snickered.\n\n \"Sonic!\" cheered Tails, the blue-eyed fox practically flying into his arms as they collided in a swinging hug. \"I'm so glad to see you!\"\n\n \"Whoa-hoa!\" giggled the hedgehog, catching the fox and giving him a long, affectionate kiss. \"Mmmmm-wah! I'm glad to see you too, my fox! Are you okay?\"\n\n \"I am now!\" beamed Tails, nuzzling noses and squeezing tight. \"The whole thing was a trap! But… looks like the jackals fell in it themselves, hehe.\" The fox smiled over his shoulder at the others arriving behind the blue beau. \"Hi Rouge, hi Omega!\"\n\n \"Heya cutie,\" winked the buxom bat, hand to hip as she smiled with a particle gun slung over her shoulder. A hulking crimson and black robot stood beside the bat, the imposing pair flanked by a dozen fresh-faced G.U.N. agents. \"Dang, looks like we missed out, boys. But that just makes us early for the party,\" she winked, clasping hands with the others. \"Everybody okay here?\"\n\n \"I detect treatable wounds, but no casualties,\" nodded Omega in a crisp monotone, the robot clutching a large black minigun. \"It is most agreeable to see you safe, Mr. Prower and Mr. Espio. It is also agreeable to see you in custody, Mr. Infinite. A superb result. Though I do detect viable targets fleeing northwest. It would be no trouble for me to neutralize--\"\n\n \"No no, Big O, but thanks,\" chuckled Tails, taking Sonic's hand as the hedgehog set him down. \"They won't be back anytime soon. I'm glad you guys made it! What happened while I was knocked out?\" \n\n \"Attacks and skirmishes popped up right after you got shanghaied,\" explained Rouge, leaning against Omega. \"All day and all over, it was nuts. Most turned out to be decoys. But we got those boys to talk, then scoured the leads. Eventually all roads lead here to twenty seven.\" The bat nodded at Kohal, Kael and Korba. \"You got prisoners, too? We got about forty others in the clink, we can toss them in.\"\n\n \"Nah, these guys are with me,\" smiled Knuckles, patting Kohal's shoulder as the jackal bowed to the pleasantly surprised bat. \"Long story, but they're good. Get 'em some food and water though please, and let's get our medics busy. We've had a day,\" nodded the echidna, turning to Sonic. \"You always make me do the heavy lifting,\" he winked, scooping the hedgehog into a rib-squeezing hug and kissing his chest. \"But you've always got my back.\"\n\n \"Ooof! Hey, it's not like you can't handle it, big guy,\" grinned Sonic, hugging right back and kissing the echidna's forehead before he was set back down. \"You and Rouge were right. Facility ten, thirteen, the airport, Palmtree district, Gem Coast… all fakeouts, spreading us out on purpose.\" He turned and smiled at Shadow, walking over with with a two finger salute. \"Great work, Shads. I knew you'd put things right.\" Holding the prisoner's bound wrists, the dark hedgehog leaned over and touched foreheads with Sonic, sharing a nod and a long, knowing nuzzle before a discreet kiss. Sonic kissed back and took a deep breath before facing the prisoner, \"So what you got in store for him? You gonna do like we discussed?\" \n\n \"I am,\" nodded Shadow, rubbing his sore chin. \"G.U.N. will take him. Restitution, counseling, therapy… and many apologies. We can't do as we did before. I… I think I see what you were getting at.\"\n\n \"You know, it IS okay to just say I was right, Shads,\" snickered Sonic, patting Shadow's chest ruff.\n\n \"However I can help,\" offered Kohal, rubbing his own ruff nervously as he and his lieutenants eyed the hedgehogs hopefully. \"He's not a monster. I know he isn't.\"\n\n \"How kind of you to notice, cousin,\" grumbled Infinite, ears flat as he shook his head. \"You pusillanimous… All of you, stop speaking of me as if I'm sick!\"\n\n \"You're saying you're not?\" scowled Tails, pointing at the bruise around his neck and folding his arms. \"I can't imagine what it must be like, to be so angry and hateful and… and selfish inside! Yeesh. I know I shouldn't be, but I actually feel sorry for you, Infinite.\"\n\n \"I saw who he is growing up,\" nodded Kohal to Tails, placing a hand on the fox's back. \"I miss that jackal, perhaps he is still there.\" Kohal sighed, taking his charges' hands and speaking over his shoulder as they turned away. \"Best of luck, cousin. Whatever you may think of us, we still wish the best for you. I will be in touch whenever I am permitted.\"\n\n \"Enjoy life with the enemy,\" glowered Infinite, his demeanor growing eerily calm. \"The squad is still mine, Kohal. Not yours, not the Riverdwells, not the Northern Fists. And I [i]will[/i] remember this day.\"\n\n \"Redemption is a rare and wondrous gift,\" grinned Espio, stepping into Infinite's view. \"Do not discard it so easily.\"\n\n \"Yeah, don't fuck it up,\" glared Knuckles over his shoulder, helping troops lift packs and supplies. \"I'm tired of all this world's-gonna-end shit. I just want my friends. And my damn tunes and my damn grape soda, too. Everyone! Let's get back to base! Kohal? You guys come with me, we'll get you situated.\"\n\n \"Omega--take him,\" nodded Shadow. With surprising gentleness, the robot clasped the jackal's arms and faced him forwards as the hedgehog rubbed his sore hip. \"Ouch. Rouge, you're in command. Get our high profile ‘guest' to the quarters we set aside. Pull in whatever help you need. I'm heading home.\"\n\n \"I'm all over it. Go rest,\" nodded the bat, smiling gently and kissing Shadow's cheek. \"I know the answer, but are you sure you don't want to come and get checked out as well? You look like ten miles of bad road.\"\n\n \"I love you too,\" chuckled Shadow, wincing as a medic dabbed his lip. He clasped the bat's hand and kissed it. \"I'll heal in a day or two. See that he gets a full assessment and does not hurt himself. Omega's good for that. You can brief me over the secure channel. See you next week.\" The hedgehog patted the sullen jackal's chest ruff. \"Obey Rouge, pet. She is in charge and it would be highly unwise to not follow her instruction. Be nice to the doctors too, they are there to help. Bite anyone and I'll bite you.\"\n\n \"Is that a promise or a threat?\" muttered Infinite, taking stock of the smirking bat.\n\n \"Yes,\" grinned Sonic, walking up and standing nose to nose with the jackal. \"From warlord to fix-me-upper. What a day, huh? You'll be seeing me too, I want to see if my hunch about you was right. You know, whenever you're not busy picking up roadside trash or serving jello at Eggman's nuthouse.\"\n\n \"The preferred terminology is Maximum Security Assisted Living Center,\" added Omega, petting Infinite's bruised back as the jackal winced and flattened his ears. \"Mr. Infinite will be housed elsewhere to prevent collusion. Incidentally we do require a qualified cafeteria technician now that Mr. Nack has been paroled. Perhaps cooking would be therapeutic to you, Mr. Infinite.\"\n\n \"No, robot. I tend to [i]burn[/i] things. Especially my enem-- Ouch! Mind the kidney!\" yelped Infinite as the others snickered. Omega nodded and petted elsewhere. \"Ah, blue rat. You must really be enjoying this.\"\n\n \"Yeah, pretty much,\" grinned Sonic, leaning in to snap a selfie with the jackal. \"You know, it's weird. Here I thought I was gonna have all kinds of stuff to get off my chest once I finally got to see you again. But now? It's almost like you don't even matter.\" The hedgehog slicked his quills, using his phone as a mirror. \"The last war, Eggy's empire, you locking me up… just speed bumps in my rear view mirror, pal. Time to move on to the next gig! In fact, I'm gonna wish you luck, Infinite. You're gonna need it with Shads holding your leash,\" he chuckled, patting the glaring jackal's head. \"Come on guys, back to base! Let's get our party on!!\"\n\n\n[i]Late morning the next day, Fern Forest…[/i]\n\n \"No more parties,\" groaned Shadow, stretching as he sat naked on a throne-like wicker chair in his living room, his socks and hover shoes neatly arranged by the front door. Though filtered by mist and drizzle, the day outside was green and bright, the foliage and flowers wet and luminous through the windows. Little curls of steam rose from the hedgehog's coffee as he sipped. \"Ahhh… superb, Espio. Thank you. This will chase off the noise in my head.\"\n\n \"My pleasure, Master. I hope you enjoyed yourself,\" smiled the chameleon, kneeling nude before the softly crackling fireplace and warming his hands. \"I've never seen you dance before. You're really quite good!\"\n\n \"Bah! I'll pretend you're telling the truth… and that I was sober,\" chuckled Shadow, setting the mug aside and cracking his back. He carefully inspected his lip and jewels from the previous day's melee. \"I'd heal faster if I just rested, but I did enjoy. Seeing everyone and their guests happy… it was wonderful. Did you see Buddy with his sister and parents? They're all practically identical, hehe. Hmph… Sonic and others have done much for my social anxiety, but I'd still rather garden than go out.\" \n\n \"They were thrilled you came,\" smiled Espio warmly. \"Some were in shock, seeing you chatting and smiling and hugging like that. It certainly made [i]me[/i] smile.\"\n\n \"Thank you for going with me. Truly,\" smiled Shadow, blowing a kiss from his fingertips. \"And how's my ninja with the cute tush?\"\n\n \"Ninja and tush are doing superbly,\" winked the chameleon, patting his posterior before turning around on his knees to warm it. He splayed and surveyed his body. \"Bit of smoke inhalation, few small burns, nothing serious. That flower wine Blaze brought did more damage than anything. A ninja can't be--\" He noticed the hedgehog wincing slightly as he gently rolled his testes. \"Are, uh… are those going to be all right?\"\n\n \"Mm? Oh, sorry. Yes. Still a little tender, nothing a bath can't fix,\" chuckled Shadow, leaning back and relaxing, his impressive member resting between his fit thighs. \"I think Infinite got the worst of it though, I heard Tails say he stomped him pretty good. But he too shall recover.\"\n\n \"Shall I fire up the tub? A good soak can work wonders, I'm tempted myself.\" The lizard shot Shadow a bashful grin. \"And if you ask nicely, I might even bathe you.\"\n\n \"Then I'd better ask nicely,\" grinned Shadow, splaying and subtly wagging his assets as the chameleon's soft smile filled with color. \"But there's a few things I need to sort out this morning first. Oh…\" Shadow thumbed over at a pile of soft quilts mounded on the couch, rising and falling softly as a pair of poofy orange tails protruded from underneath. \"I hope you don't mind sharing.\"\n \n \"Not at all,\" grinned Espio, backing up a bit and hoisting his tail as he warmed his back and buns. \"We get on very well together. I just… really hope he's forgiven me.\" The lizard looked bashfully aside, rubbing his forearm. \"Can't believe I was tricked into endangering him like that.\"\n\n \"He's fine,\" yawned Shadow, arms up high. \"Though it wouldn't hurt to talk with him when he wakes up.\" The hedgehog reached over and gently patted the slumbering mound, smiling softly as the fire crackled and droplets pattered outside.\n\n \"I shall. He is truly sweet,\" nodded Espio, softly stroking his tail tip over his shoulder. \"And lucky to have his hedgehogs looking after him. Though I am a bit surprised he didn't stay with Sonic for the after-party.\"\n\n \"He had a monumentally tough day to say the least,\" shrugged Shadow, pulling up a knee and stretching his leg. \"We'd had enough by then. The loud music, the hooting and hollering and hurling… I'd rather stumble off and sleep than listen to people yell at Sonic, trying to get him to jump into that homemade pool.\"\n\n \"You mean the bomb crater the rookies lined with tarps and filled with a hose?\" chuckled Espio, shaking his head. \"I don't blame him for saying no, that's as sketchy as it gets. And for the record, I did not help throw him in, either. Wait--weren't you inside by then?\"\n\n \"I was,\" sipped Shadow. \"Listening to Amy, Big and Vector, apparently competing for the title of Worst Ever Topless Karaoke Singer.\" The hedgehog closed his eyes and shuddered.\n\n \"Is that what that was!?\" guffawed Espio, clutching his stomach. \"Now I feel bad for not staying. Did you at least vote?\"\n\n \"No, but I'm sure it was very close,\" snickered Shadow. \"I was much happier to come home. Sonic sent me a picture at three a.m. of him, Knuckles and Amy drunkenly cuddled outside on an old air mattress. I'll bet my bands they're still there, hehe. I'm sure he'll find his way here after they sleep it off.\"\n\n \"And hit the Pancake Palace,\" grinned Espio. \"I'm happier here too. Drinking still makes me want to smoke and… make other poor choices. I've been quit two full months now,\" he smiled proudly.\n\n \"Congratulations,\" nodded Shadow, his eyes drifting over lizard's fit form. He smiled and leaned forward, gently cupping the chameleon's cheek. \"I'm very proud of you. You certainly taste better.\"\n\n \"I didn't think of it that way,\" blushed Espio, his cheeks going rainbow-hued. \"But it's a wonderful incentive to keep going.\" The lizard held Shadow's hand and kissed it. The hedgehog smiled gently, rousing himself from the chair with a slight wince before kneeling with his purple colleague, pulling him close for a long, tender kiss. A large, powerful hand slowly caressed the chameleon's svelte back and slender hips as the other slid beneath his tightly curled tail to squeeze his pert purple buns. \"Mmmmmpphh…\" melted the lizard, kissing back and caressing the hedgehog's rugged face and cottony ruff. The pair slowly suckled lips and tongues together before their eyes opened slowly, gazes dancing into one another. \"Still need to call in?\" whispered Espio, his face flashing hot as he reached down and fondled warmly. \"Or is it pleasure before business?\"\n\n \"Mmmfff...\" Shadow grinned, petting his fingers between the other male's mounds before squeezing and patting. \"Save it for the fox, and I'll save for you both.\" Kissing again, he knelt side-by-side with the lizard, who curled his tail around the hedgehog's hip as they warmed hands. \"Business-wise, Kohal is already proving to be highly valuable. Apparently Scourge was turned over to the Northern Fists, a renegade pack that took over when Infinite was banished.\"\n\n \"I know bits and pieces from my Chaotix work,\" nodded Espio, drawing on Shadow's thigh. \"They're secretive and well organized. Violent too, even by squad standards. Some say they consider themselves the original squad even though you disbanded it. Vector says they pushed the jackals' criminal enterprises the hardest. Trafficking, piracy, bootlegging, smuggling, kidnapping, extortion… they're all about the money. I doubt they gave a fig about Infinite's ambitions.\"\n\n \"No, but they feared him and went along,\" nodded Shadow, tracing his fingers atop Espio's hand. \"Kohal tells Rouge the Fists made a hasty truce, swearing an oath of loyalty to Infinite and doing his dirty work. Now that he's captured, those oaths aren't worth a wet fart. An internecine fight is all but certain. I want to locate Scourge, extract him before he mouths off to the wrong jackal and commence a long term surveillance. Be ready.\" The hedgehog sighed, rubbing his stiff neck as the lizard chuckled and caressed his chest. \"What a mess. At least Nack had the good sense to avoid capture by fleeing to the mainland and gambling away all his money. Oh, and I'll have to read Infinite's evaluations too at some point. They're already starting to clutter my inbox.\"\n\n \"You have an odd way of making victory sound like defeat,\" winked Espio, leaning over and smooching the hedgehog's cheek. \"We'll all be helping you. Ruining a warlord's day is a ninja specialty, it works well on crimelords, too. I can't wait!\"\n\n \"Bah, you're right,\" smiled Shadow, nuzzling back and tracing the heart-shaped outline on the lizard's chest. \"Next week's work is next week's work. At least Infinite is off the table. A few days' sleep in a real bed, pizza and ice cream, cartoons--that should soften him up. Honey instead of vinegar, so to speak. Then I'll see what I can extract.\"\n\n \"I hope there's a bath involved,\" chuckled the lizard, reciprocating the caresses. \"He was a bit whiffy. They all were.\"\n\n \"It's a cultural thing. Water is much too scarce in the Rift Zone to use selfishly. The detention facility, not so much.\" Shadow imitated Omega's signature monotone. \"Do not be shy, Mr. Infinite. It is just us boys here. I will scrub you. Look, I even brought some bubble bath. I hope you like strawberries.\"\n\n Espio laughed and joined in. \"Your coat is 66% matted. Hold still, for I have located a cocklebur.\" \n\n In the background, Tails stirred and groaned himself awake, rolling over and rubbing his eyes at the tittering duo. \"Nnnfff… Omega, is that you?\"\n\n \"Sorry fox, we were being inconsiderate,\" offered Shadow, smiling softly. \"You can go back to sleep.\"\n\n \"Nah, hrm gonna geddup,\" yawned Tails, stretching under the quilts. \"Hrrmm… morning.\"\n\n \"We should see if Kohal knows who hacked us. Good morning, Tails,\" bowed Espio, reaching over and gently petting the fox's warm cheek and soft ear, bringing a sleepy murr. \"Infinite is very clever, but I don't believe he himself possesses that capability.\"\n\n \"I intend to find out,\" nodded Shadow as the fox sat up and scratched his side. \"Tails' cyber team is already combing for any vulnerabilities, exploits they may have used. Speaking of whom, good morning foxy,\" he smiled, leaning over and rubbing vulpine foot. \"How do you feel?\"\n\n \"Morning! I'm good… little stiff,\" smiled the fox, squeezing Shadow's hand. \"Mild rope burn, couple blisters… the big one's my neck, but it already feels better. That was some fight, but I think the party was worse, hehe. I kinda remember sitting in you guys' laps all the way here. then you helping me undress, Espio.\" The fox scratched his head, looking around. \"Wait. I was in the master bed. How'd I end up on the couch?\" The fox rubbed his forearm and frowned slightly. \"Did you guys… um… need the bed to yourselves? I mean, it's okay, it's just--\"\n\n \"Now, now,\" smiled Shadow gently, scooting over and kneeling between the fox's legs. He laced fingers with him and gave his fuzzy, cream-colored belly a loud smooch. \"I keep my promises, orange gem. My snoring and phone kept waking us all, so I took the zen room. Espio saw you shivering when he got up, so he carried you to the quilt pile and made us this lovely fire.\" \n\n \"You're very cuddly,\" winked Espio, bringing a bashful smile to the fox's face.\n\n Shadow reached for a glass of water on the end table and handed to Tails, who gulped gratefully. \"We'll enjoy one another later on, no one left out,\" he winked, leaning in and giving the fox a long, deep, loving kiss, the fox moaning softly as the half empty glass drooped in his hand. Espio smiled and set the glass aside. \"Would fox find that agreeable?\"\n\n \"Yes, hehe. Thanks, guys. And thanks for warming me up, Espio,\" smiled the fox, nuzzling as Shadow gently pulled aside the quilt, exposing a cutely curved and erect foxhood that sprang up as it was freed. \"Hey!\"\n\n \"Hello, what's this!?\" gasped Shadow, feigning surprise and gently batting the fox's erection side to side with his nose, inhaling its warm, slept-in scent. \"Mmm… Espio, do you see this? How scandalous! Mister Fox, explain yourself,\" he winked, kissing and nibbling the head as the fox blushed and giggled and tried to cover it back up. \"Let me guess. It's--\"\n\n \"I really gotta pee!\" snickered Tails, giving a quick good-morning kiss. Shadow chuckled and nodded and smooched back, helping the fox up and patting his butt as he bolted for the bath, snatching a quick morning hug and kiss from the chameleon en route.\n\n \"Knuckles thinks there are others like Kohal that we could reach,\" continued Shadow, standing with hands to hips and stretching. \"Moderate factions we can quietly incentivize against the Fists. I wish to find them. Nnnfff… I'd better return his call. Go ahead and fire up the bath, I'll join you shortly.\"\n\n The bath was cavernous yet cozy, with a six person hot tub, walk-in shower and two pedestal sinks. A wide, low changing bench sat across from a picture window featuring an unbroken wall of alpine rainforest festooned with moss, vines and blossoms. Elegant textures of wood, stone and bamboo predominated, the lighting soft and offset save for spotlights over the sinks. Wicker shelves sat stuffed with luxurious linens between two doors, one for the sauna and the other leading to a toilet and bidet. Staggered alcoves housed candles, unused wine glasses or wooden bowls filled with shells and corals. The chameleon found Tails brushing his teeth at one of the sinks and did the same.\n\n \"Care to share a bath with me?\" smiled Espio, clicking a few buttons on a panel. The hot tub began topping itself off, bubbling slowly to life as soft aqua green lighting glowed from its floor.\n\n The fox nodded as he brushed, tiptoeing to spit. \"I'd love to! I was actually gonna come ask you guys.\"\n\n \"Shadow's coming after his call,\" smiled Espio, loading his toothbrush as he felt his heart flutter a little. \"I thought maybe you and I could… there's some things I wanted to say.\"\n\n \"Oh?\" blushed Tails, padding over to check the water, his own body starting to get butterflies as he realized he was alone and naked with the attractive ninja. He glanced over the lizard's fit form, leaning slightly forward over the sink as he brushed. \"I'd… I'd like that,\" he smiled, biting his lower lip. Tiptoeing on the rim of the tub, the short fox barely managed to reach the candle sitting in an alcove over the water, wobbling a bit as he struck a match and lit it. Steam condensing on the tiles made them slippery and the fox nearly pitched into the water. \"Whoooaaa!\" he teetered, lit candle in one hand, smoking match in the other, but the ninja spit and sauntered up from behind, wrapping his arms around the fox's midriff and pressing his cheek into the fox's soft back. \"Hehe, why thank you,\" grinned Tails, curling his namesakes around the ninja as he slid the candle back in place. \"Usually Shadow or Sonic gets these high ones.\"\n\n \"I like this technique better,\" winked Espio, his mouth comically ringed with foam as he patted the fox's rump. \"And the view. Mmmff. 'Scuse me.\" The fox giggled, holding the lizard's hand and carefully lowering himself into the water. Taking the match, the chameleon rinsed at the sink and checked his long tongue. \n\n \"Ooo…. it's perfect,\" chirred the fox, slowly sinking into the welcoming bubbly jets until only his nose and tail tips still broke the surface. A deep, extended moan escaped his nostrils, adding to the rising steam.\n\n As Espio stepped in, his face and sides flashed from light to reddish purple, the chameleon hissing softly as his tail curled up tight. \"Nnngghh! Huh-- hot…\" But the deep, soothing heat soon won him over as well. Tails' face rose dreamily out of the water, just in time to glimpse the lizard's sizable member and firm rump sinking in until only his horn remained. Tilting the water from his ears, the fox knelt opposite his bathmate. The ninja smiled gently, surprised to find him that close when he resurfaced. \"Well, hello there. Come here often?\"\n\n \"I do, in fact,\" chuckled Tails, reaching for the blushing lizard's slender hips as the other male found his. He nuzzled the ninja's horn and gave a soft, respectful kiss. \"And I'm glad you finally got to join. I won't lie, I got a tiny bit jealous when Shadow told me you… would be staying from time to time. But if he and Sonic are okay with it, then I am too,\" he blushed.\n\n \"Fear not, sweet fox,\" blushed Espio, running his hands slowly over his sides. \"I'm still mostly just an interloper. I have my business partners to look after, and still do my best work alone. You are superbly lucky to have the loves you do, Tails. I am humbled greatly to be permitted to share if… if you'll have me,\" he bowed. \"But first, I must apologize for my behavior. It was utterly unacceptable.\"\n\n \"Aww, it's okay,\" shrugged the fox, tilting his head and smiling. \"I mean, I was scared and confused, but deep down I just sorta knew there's no way you'd ever really hurt me. Not in a million years.\" The fox ventured a kiss on the lizard's cheek and gave him a soft underwater fondle. \"You're my friend, Espio. I trust you.\"\n\n \"You… you do?\" The words seemed to sideswipe the ninja, who sat and searched the fox's ocean blue eyes with his own. His throat got tighter and tighter, cheeks reddening still further as his clear golden eyes rapidly grew wet. Clearing his throat, he nodded mutely and blinked, sending tears into the water.\n\n \"Oh, no!\" searched the fox, ears flattening as he rubbed the lizard's hand, \"did I say something wrong?\"\n\n \"N-no,\" sniffed the lizard softly, grabbing the fox's hands and squeezing as fresh tears replaced those that fell. \"I just felt so awful. The order--it was absurd! But I chose blind obedience over my instincts, and you nearly got taken because of it. Ugh…\" Closing his eyes, the lizard hugged the fox tight as tears poured. \n\n \"Hey, it's all over now,\" comforted the fox, hugging back. \"You got tricked by someone who knew exactly what to say, right down to the letter. I would have believed the order too. And unless Infinite fesses up, it's gonna take a long time to figure out how we got hacked so perfectly. But think about it! Everyone noticed right away when we went missing. They didn't argue, they just came running when we needed it most. That's… that's what friends do for each other. Right?\" nodded the fox, his own eyes getting moist as he looked the ninja in the eyes and swallowed hard. \"So… so you better forgive yourself Espio, because…\" The fox swallowed hard as his own tears began to spill. \"Because I already have.\" The pair hugged tight, tears flowing as they slowly rocked in one another's arms in the soothing swirl of bubbles. At length, they laced fingers and nuzzled reassuringly, the soft sounds of rain and forest birds wafting in through the high windows.\n\n \"Thank you, beautiful fox,\" whispered the chameleon, colors calming as he kissed Tails' cheek. \"I would protect you, Shadow, Sonic and the others with my life. May no one ever deceive me like that again.\" Heaving a sigh of relief, he sat on the smooth submerged ledge and welcomed the fox into his lap. \"Yesterday was surreal. I still can't believe it all happened. If the ancestors could see me now, they'd--\"\n\n \"They'd be proud of you,\" chimed Tails, kissing the lizard's shoulder as his buns cradled his loins. \"You stood up to Infinite the whole time. You even called him out as a fraud, a faker. Right to his face!\" he giggled, toes wiggling out of the water. \n\n \"Oh, I'd had enough of him by then,\" laughed the lizard, lifting the fox's hand and kissing it. \"Pompous windbag. My grandfather once said if the world didn't have cruelty, greed or bullies, it wouldn't need ninjas either. He was a great ninja, but he was happiest just tending his garden. And you were a sight yourself, fox. You stopped your own abduction! Heard you mashed Infinite's potatoes pretty good,\" he chuckled.\n\n \"I grew up with lots of bullies, it was [i]on[/i] at the at point,\" smirked the fox, his hand slipping beneath the water to idly pet the lizard's semisoft shaft and smooth orbs, bringing forth a soft, appreciative moan. \"When it's time to fight back, you give it all you've got, hehe. Mmm...\"\n\n \"Damn right,\" nodded the ninja, his own hand slipping underwater to return the petting, gently brushing and exploring the fox's growing organ and velvety jewels with his fingertips. He watched the fox blush and lick his lips, leaning back and splaying wider for the lizard. \"Mmmmm,\" nodded Espio, the pair sharing a quick, knowing glance as each fondled the other unseen. \"Infinite looked so small and miserable without his ruby, hanging there in Omega's arms like wet laundry. Curse me for saying it, but I kind of feel sorry for him now.\"\n\n \"Because you have a good heart. It's clearly marked,\" smiled Tails bashfully, tracing the outline of the lizard's chest and booping his horn. \"It's going to take me a long time to forgive that guy after what he did. But... I'm not the sort to be bitter.\"\n\n \"You're much too sweet for that,\" nuzzled the lizard, winking as his other hand slid down and squeezed the fox's bubbled orange buns. \"What matters is we made it. And a friends I treasure were not seriously hurt or taken from me.\" Gazing softly, he let the warm, wet vulpine shift over his body until they were lip to lip, their submerged shafts sliding and pressing together. Both males gazed excitedly at one another, tilting heads and opening mouths as they leaned in kissed… deeply. \"Mmmmph!\" was all the ninja managed to say. Eyelids fluttered and lips swirled and suckled, pressing and tasting together as hot, excited breath began to exhale cheek to cheek. The ninja's fondling fingers found and fiddled the fox's nipples, rewarding him with muffled moans as Tails squeezed and stroked the lizard's hardening cock against his own. Cradling the fox in his arms, the chameleon slipped his long, dextrous tongue in around its velvety vulpine counterpart, snaking and swirling together as the kiss grew deeper and more adamant. The fox's ears went flat, his damp, steaming chest rising and falling as he suckled the lizard's tongue, their flushed faces adorned with droplets. Espio broke the kiss, the fox breathing hard and blinking curiously until the other male went for his neck, sucking the young flier's tender throat and jawline. Tails trembled in the swirling water, mouth agape and moaning louder as the ninja suckled each tender patch of skin, nuzzling through his chest cotton to give each hard little nipple loving licks and suckles as he gently tugged and rolled the other, the bath filling with the fox's pleasured gasps and grunts. Tails' hips squirmed from the intense pleasure, his curved cock surfacing enough for the ninja to see it was fully erect and leaking. Sliding and arm around the fox's back and squeezing his rump, the chameleon gripped the throbbing wonder, slowly stroking it as he licked his way down. \"Goodness,\" murred the lizard, licking in circles around the fox's belly button, \"so vocal and soft. Even more adorable than I imagined. What ever shall I do with you?\"\n\n \"You could… I mean… I'd like…\" stammered Tails, watching intently as the lizard's long, pink tongue licked lower over his belly. Swallowing hard, he gently slid from the chameleon's lap and kneeled in the water, placing his hands on the lizard's thighs. He looked up into his eyes, needful but determined. \"Espio? I really want to suck your cock!\" \n\n \"Mmmff… now who could ever refuse an offer like that? Or such a sweet face,\" he grinned, gently booping the needful fox's nose. Smirking playfully, Tails reared up and caught ninja's finger with his mouth, suckling it suggestively as his tongue swirled around it. The chameleon's eyes went wide, brow dampening as his heart jumped into his throat. \"Yesss.... as you wish, naughty one,\" he nodded. As the chameleon stood, his fully hard cock rose impressively from the water, wagging off crystal droplets as it jutted towards the fox's face. \n\n Releasing the ninja's digit, the kneeling fox grasped the mesmerizing member's base and wagged it side to side, admiring its heft and girth. Aiming the bulbous head towards his lips, he kissed the tip a few times before opening wide, engulfing most of the lizard's thick magenta meat. His lips closed around the shaft as his tongue cradled the head and sensitive, spongy underside. The lizard's fat, tasty mushroom throbbed hard as the fox gently pressed his throat over the tip, eyes closing dreamily as he whimpered and savored the taste, texture and heat of his friend's cock for the first time. \"Mmmmmph…\"\n\n \"Sweet heavens,\" whispered Espio, head and horn tilting back, eyes closing as he felt the fox's superb mouth start to move, sucking hungrily as his tongue lapped under his cockhead and over his slit. The fox was clearly experienced--and enjoying himself. The ninja's legs trembled as blood kept rushing from his head to other places. He gripped the tiles with his fingertips and cradled the fox's bobbing head. \"Tails…\" he cooed, chin slowly sinking to his chest as he peeked at the fox devouring his cock, bobbing and suckling and pumping wetly as the bath echoed with eager slurping. \"Yesssss… I've been with girls from Station Square to Rokkaku Hill,\" he huffed, his slim purple hips beginning to buck into the fox's face. \"How is it you're so good?\"\n\n The fox plunged his lips down to the hilt, exhaling hotly through his black button nose against purple pubic skin. Relaxing his muscles and holding his breath, he paused, feeling the pulsating purple pole ooze sticky precum down his tender throat. Sucking back up slowly to the tip, the fox let his lizard lover's length pop wetly out, panting as a thick, gooey strand of mixed precum and saliva stretched obscenely from chin to foreskin. His blue eyes danced with the lizard's as he licked and swirled his tongue around the glans. \"I don't think I'm better,\" he giggled softly, milking the lizard's precum and lapping it away. The fox swallowed and thought. \"I just like doing this, hehe. You have really nice cock, Espio,\" he smiled, rubbing it softly over his face. \"Mmm… it's sleek and strong and purple and mostly straight, just like you, hehe.\" Slipping lower, he sucked the ninja's handsome sack, letting the amethyst orbs slide and pop wetly in and out of his lips, one, then the other, then both, wagging in the water as the lizard's moans filled the room.\n\n [i]\"Huuhhnn… yesss! Suck those jewels, foxy…\"[/i] hissed the lizard, eyes clamping shut once more as he cradled the fox's ears and massaged them with his fingertips. He leaked copiously on the fox's forehead. \"Oh, Tails…\" he huffed, panting hard as his tightening sack popped free and got sucked him in again, the fox's mouth and pumping hand working together. \"C-careful… I'm … I'm already getting close…\"\n\n \"Mmmhmm...\" nodded the fox, bobbing and slurping wetly again as his own untouched cock throbbed and leaked beneath the water. \"How about...\" he licked, slapping the lizard's glans against his tongue and showing off his warm, pink throat, \"...you come on my face?\"\n\n \"Tease!\" panted the lizard, licking his lips as his fingers and toes started to curl.\n\n \"It's not teasing if I let you,\" giggled Tails, lapping and sucking the underside of the riveted chameleon's twitching cock, stroking it faster against his tongue as a powerful climax billowed inside the lizard's body. \"Yeah… it's gonna be cum time… you like it when a gay fox boi sucks your cock, don't you? I'm gonna put on my collar and panties on for you tonight... so the big boys can have a horny little vixen to play with, hehe...\"\n\n \"Huhhnn-- huh!? You'd do that for me!? Kinky! Yes! YES! I wuh-- want that! Hnngghh! HNNFFF! Oh, fuck! Tails! Here I come!!\" huffed the lizard, tilting the fox's head back with one hand while jerking his straining, pulsating cock in the other, moaning hard as orgasm crashed through his body. The first few spurts were explosive, cum splattering the tiles as it overshot the fox's face and wide-open mouth, but those that followed hit their mark, splashing and glazing the fox's dreamy visage from chin to bangs as he steadily stroked himself. What made it into his mouth was warm, thick and surprisingly sweet. As the purple canon's shots ebbed to a throbbing ooze, the fox gratefully sucked it clean, savoring and swallowing the chameleon's gift. Puffing red from horn to chest, the winded ninja wiped his brow and surveyed his handiwork, chuckling as he tapped the last few drops on the fox's tongue. He swiped some of the gooey mess from the vulpine's chin and fed it to him, murring as his digits were suckled clean. \"I don't remember the last time I came that hard… you know an awful lot about what I like, naughty fox,\" he winked. Leaning down, he gave the vulpine a deep, wet, cummy kiss, their tongues twirling and tasting his essence together. \"Mmmff… good boy. Now stand up, let me see if I can return the favor.\"\n\n Nodding excitedly, Tails ducked under the water and rinsed before standing as bidden. The ninja took to his knees, admiring the cutely curved fox-rod as it rose to greet him. Fully hard, its decent size was accentuated by the owner's smaller frame; the euphoric lizard nibbled and kissed all over the fox's fluffy chest and warm belly, bringing a flurry of little moans as the vulpine's erection pressed against the chameleon's smooth, heart-shaped chest. Working his way down, the lizard cupped the fox's partly tightened orbs, gently tugging and rolling and admiring the fuzzy jewels before them a long, loving kiss, which brought the fox's hands to head, caressing appreciatively. Opening his mouth, the chameleon extended his extra long tongue, licking up the fox's shaft before spiraling around it like a warm, wet snake, licking and stroking it at the same time as he bobbed his head. \"W-wow! That's a cool trick!\" huffed Tails, watching excitedly as the lizard winked up at him, tongue-stroking the tasty rod in past his lips. The fox's jaw dropped with pleasure, eyes dreamy as the ninja's slick, grippy tongue stayed coiled around him. sliding and stroking as the lizard sucked and savored. The talented appendage explored every fold and contour, licking around the glans, under the foreskin, even the fox's urethra, bringing a surprised gasp and powerful throbs as the fox leaked harder. Catching his breath, the lizard curled his tongue around the fox's velvety balls, tugging and suckling as the moaning, drooling fox held his horn and quivered. \"OOOOOooooohhhhh!\"\n\n \"Mmmmm, you like that, eh?\" exhaled Espio breathlessly, pulling off and stroking the fox, his face awash in multiple colors as he kissed the tip. \"Your cock is adorable… a delicacy. I've wanted to do this for a long time...\" He nuzzled his hot face against it, licking slowly up the underside, eyes dreamy as his own cock began hardening again. \"So cute and sweet… upwards-looking, like its owner… pleasuring another male like this… nnnnfff… intoxicating.\" Sealing his lips around the fox's shaft, he fellated faster, lapping at the leaky tip as the fox's gentle whimpers and moans made music in his ears. Tails' balls drew up tight, his pert orange buns pinching in as the ninja snuck a hand under his namesakes, petting and stroking his delicate pink foxhole. Already edged from servicing the ninja, the fox could not hold back against the subtle probing. Ears flat and cheeks red, he tried to warn the ninja, but the latter spoke first. \"Do it. Come for me, foxy,\" murred Espio, licking and masturbating the fox with practised stokes as his unseen fingertip began to penetrate. \"Just think about that big purple ninja sword… I'm going to hike your panties aside from the back and squeeeeeze into your boi-pussy...\" \n\n \"Uhhhnnn… Eh--! Esh--! ESPIOOOoooOOOooo!!\" hollered the fox, his cock, fingers and ring all twitching in unison as orgasm overwhelmed, quaking his short frame and sending waves of tingly pleasure to every corner of his body. Watching for the delicacy, the ninja held the fox's pulsating cock upward like a bamboo flute, lips to tip as his fingertips stroked the shaft. His other hand caressed the fox's feathery taint and drum-tight balls as jets of splashy, hot fox cum shot right into his mouth, tongue lapping at the head and prolonging his friend's loud, moaning release. Blushing red, the flute player lost himself in the act, moaning softly as he savored, letting the seed pool and peeking at the fox's taut belly huffing away until there was nothing more to ejaculate. As if at a tea ceremony, the kneeling ninja elegantly pulled his lip from the fox's still-throbbing cock and paused, hands on thighs, back straight and eyes closed as he swallowed. \"Mmmph… delightful,\" nodded the chameleon, sucking his fingers and caressing the fox's heaving chest. \"Someone enjoys his sweets. And mint tea,\" he winked, the fox giving a breathless giggle. \"So perfect… my cock says it's high noon again, fox. Ready for another round?\"\n\n \"You bet I am,\" grinned the flushed fox, helping the ninja stand and embracing him with a long, deep kiss as their cocks brushed together. Reaching for the rack, the chameleon snagged a plush towel and laid it carefully over the ledge surrounding the tub on three sides. Laying back, Tails raised his thighs over his torso and grabbed under his knees, smiling bashfully between his legs at the ninja. \"Like what you see?\"\n\n \"More than like,\" grinned Espio, stroking himself and picking through the bottles sitting on the ledge. Finding lube, he popped the top and squeezed some on his jutting cock, stroking himself slick and fingering the excess onto the presented pink pucker. \"Mmmmm…. how does Shadow even get anything done up here, when he has this right under his nose?\" he smiled, setting the bottle aside and hooking the fox's legs over his shoulder.\n\n \"I try keep my hedgehogs happy, hehe-- nnnfff!\" whimpered Tails, tugging himself once more as the ninja rubbed and smeared his fat, slippery glans up and down over the fox's warm, tight, finely textured ring, gently teasing it open with each pass. The fox clutched his ruff and smiled bashfully. \"Go slow, okay? As busy as everyone's been, it's… been a while.\"\n\n \"I'm good at slipping into tight spaces,\" winked the ninja. Cradling one of Tails' legs, he pressed his tip to the fox's hole and advanced his hips, licking his lips as he watched his erection start to press in. Tails gasped softly as he was opened, body tensing a bit as the ninja paused. Tugging his fox-cock, he nodded and signaled for more. Espio grunted gently as he obliged, his cockhead popping in past the tight orifice, bringing another gasp and grateful moan. \"All right?\" he murred patiently, letting the fox nod again before pressing deeper into the velvety embrace, inch by inch until his cock had vanished. Both males grunted and bit their lips as the lizard throbbed inside the fox's hot tunnel. Espio held, petting the silky stretch between the fox's anus and balls with his thumb. \"All in,\" he whispered, gently rolling and caressing the fox's orbs. \"How does it feel?\"\n\n \"Wuh-- wonderful!\" he exhaled, slowly tugging his cock, his ring clenching tightly each time either of them throbbed. \"You're… you found my tingly spot, too… Wayyy deep inside… mmmfff!\" he grunted, his penis leaking anew.\n\n \"Good, because it's too late to go grab those panties,\" winked Espio, swaying his hips and stretching the fox a bit more. \"We'll start nice and easy.\" Both breathed deeply as the lizard began to fuck, the fox's slickened insides adjusting to his girth. Watching his cock slide in and out, the ninja let out a deep, satisfied moan, mixing with the fox's soft, pleasured gasps as reinvigorated ninja pole took on tight, slippery boi-pussy. Zeroed in on one another as the tub hissed and bubbled, the otherwise sharp-eared duo didn't hear the door slide open.\n\n \"I see you two have made amends,\" smirked Shadow, clutching his coffee as he leaned by the tub and watched. He had donned a short silk kimono, charcoal gray and finely patterned with black and red orchids. Untied and open, the garment permitted full view of his luxurious chest, fit abs and pendulous cock. He sipped as the other two froze, looked at one another, then back at him. \"Ahhh… a rousing roast for a rousing sight! Please continue.\"\n\n \"We… we didn't mean to start without you, Master,\" blushed Espio, his paused prick buried balls deep inside the fox, who looked up and smiled bashfully.\n\n \"I said go ahead, didn't I?\" he winked, taking a sip. \"My house is a sanctuary, you don't need my permission to enjoy one another. I hurried my calls as best I could. Things are sorted out until next week. Now then,\" he grinned, setting the mug aside and placing his hands behind his neck, swaying his cock impressively side to side, \"would it be all right if Master joined in?\"\n\n \"More than all right,\" nodded Espio, licking his lips as his blush intensified. He resumed his slow thrusts, stroking the leaky fox as they stole glances of hedgehog's handsome endowments.\n\n Turning his head to Shadow, Tails opened his mouth wide and pointed to it. With a playful smirk, the dark hedgehog sat beside the fox's head and leaned in, kissing the chameleon deeply, caressing his cheek before sliding his strong hand down to give the thrusting, pinched-in purple rump a playful smack and firm squeeze. He then lowered his garnet gaze to the prone, stuffed fox muzzling his cock as his soft head lay on his thigh. \"The ninja's getting me with his--AH!--big sword,\" giggled the fox, gasping as the lizard gripped his legs and thrusted harder. \"Uhhnn! You… you should get him back, hehe.\"\n\n \"I shall avenge you,\" grinned Shadow, petting Tails' cottony cheek and velour ears. \"But for now, naughty one...\" He lifted his heavy, veiny cock over the fox's warm, dreamy face and soft, open lips. \"Suck.\" The very next breath, the fox opened wide and took as much of the onyx rod as he could, his mouth suddenly full of steadily hardening hedgehog as he suckled obediently. His sensitive nose drank in the hedgehog's slept-in scent, masculine with notes of coffee and firewood, the veiny mouthful flavored with traces of salt and sweat. His tongue cradled the glans, licking under it and the foreskin as he pleasured, murring at the attentive cocks filling him at both ends. As Shadow patiently fed him more, the tip bumped the fox's tonsils, muffling his moans as his own cock twitched and leaked, tightening his ring around the thrusting ninja. \"Good boy,\" whispered Shadow, nodding and licking his lips as he caressed the fox's ear and played with his hard little nips. \"Look at you, taking us both like a champ. Get it nice and wet now, Master has some catching up to do.\" As the sound of slurpy suckling and slick fucking filled their ears, the hedgehog kissed Espio once more, the chameleon's cheeks radiating color as his host teased under his tail, prodding and petting his swaying entrance.\n\n \"Mmmmph! What… what is Master thinking?\" murred the chameleon, licking with Shadow and gyrating his svelte hips as he fucked, pivoting deep inside the whimpering, slurping fox, who reached up and began pumping the hedgehog's hardon, eyes closing as he lost himself in the full spitroast. Already close to orgasm, the fox gently pulled Espio's hand from his erection and laced fingers, squeezing as he twitched and leaked on his own, his velvety balls drawn up as tight as the topping lizard's. Shadow smiled, popping his glistening thickness from the fox's mouth and slapping it wetly against his tongue, admiring the cocksucker's dreamy expression and soft, pink throat. Leaning down, he gave Tails a deep, loving kiss, then a gentle boop before slipping into the tub behind Espio. Taking the lube, he slathered his veiny shaft and slapped the excess between the lizard's cheeks. Peeking bashfully over his shoulder, the chameleon let out deep anticipatory moan as the hedgehog gripped the base of his tail began pushing in. \"OOOOOooooohhhhh!!\"\n\n \"Mmm, someone's entering the ninja,\" murred Tails, the lizard's cock starting to spasm wildly inside him. \n\n \"Sweet Chaos, is he ever,\" nodded Espio, eyes closed and brow furrowing. Tails took one of the ninja's fingers and sucked it, the force of the hedgehog's advance shoving the chameleon's cock deep inside the whimpering fox; each male throbbed into the next next like a chain reaction. The hedgehog hissed softly through his teeth as his thickness vanished inside the slick, hot tunnel, the ninja wiggling down to meet the gentle thrusts until big black balls nestled up behind smooth purple jewels.\n\n \"Good boy,\" rumbled Shadow, kissing the chameleon's shoulder. \"Master's all inside you now. Nnfff… how I've missed this.\"\n\n \"Mmmmhuuuhhoooohhhhhh,\" slurred Espio dizzily, eyes opening to half-lids as he carefully resumed his thrusts, alternately filling the fox while impaling himself on the hedgehog's fat, stationary pole. \"Oooofff! I've… I've never been the muh-- middle man… it feels amhh-- amazing!\"\n\n \"Then let me do the work. You just enjoy,\" smiled Shadow, gently guiding the ninja's slender hips, pushing and pulling them back and forth, forcing the lizard to top and bottom, thrust and be thrusted in. Pleasure poured in from front and back, the mind-blowing sensation of fucking while being fucked acting like a feedback loop. Each thrust made him throb, each throb made him clench, a smiling, eager, rosy-cheeked lover in front and behind. The ninja's legs quivered as hedgehog spooned in and kissed him over his shoulder, forcing his pelvis faster and harder as the moaning fox played with his smooth chest. In short order, both bottoms' balls were beyond bursting, tight and aching to release. Feeling the moment drawing near, Shadow purposely slowed them down and started kissing and sucking Espio's tender neck, the latter's entire body color deepening as his moans filled the room.\n\n \"Nguh… Ruh-- rock my hips, Master… faster… fuck me!\" begged the ninja breathlessly, gripping under Tails' knees for dear life as an intense pulling sensation began deep behind his balls, the hedgehog's commanding, thick, thrusting cock pounding his gaping hole and prodding his prostate. Shadow huffed and grunted, speeding the trio up and adding thrusts of his own, quills swaying and balls slapping as he too readied to release. It was too much for the ninja, his body quaking as it gave way. \"I cuh-- can't-- can't hold it! Hnnghhh!! Master…. Tails!\" His toned purple frame went rigid as he and Shadow bashed hips, back and forth like a revving piston, quickening his own cock inside the moaning, gasping, bouncing fox. \"Cuh--- come-- COMING! UHNFF! UHNFF… Uhnff… Hnnnff… OOOooohhhh...\" Fresh ropes of creamy chameleon cum shot deep into Tails, who used his namesakes to keep the ninja buried in his bottom as Shadow did the same with his hips. The hedgehog murred deeply, playfully biting the ninja's nape as his ring spasmed and gripped his leaky girth. \n\n \"Wow,\" blinked Tails, looking up at the others and slowly tugging himself, \"you came lots, Espio. Again, hehe. I can feel it!\" The fox reared up and kissed the chameleon sweetly. \"Mmm… that felt really good.\" \n\n \"Excellent,\" panted Shadow softly, patting Espio's rump before another tender kiss. \"Fox adores being filled. It's very bonding,\" he nuzzled.\n\n \"Th-- thank you, Master,\" nuzzled the ninja back dreamily, caressing the fox's soft chest and using his strong tail to keep Shadow's shaft buried inside. \"And you too, beautiful fox. I feel selfish though, coming first like that,\" he blushed, smiling as warming waves of afterglow went through his body. \"But you two are just too good,\" he chuckled, squeezing his buns around Shadow with a wink. \"Would Master like to… unburden himself?\"\n\n \"Hey Shads?\" came a sudden voice from the hallway. \"Hello? Anyone back here?\" The intimately interlocked trio held their breath in unison as the door slid open. Clad in his favorite red running shoes and a pair of matching silky shorts, a sweaty blue hedgehog sauntered into the bath, a partly eaten sandwich in his hand. Turning to one of the mirrors, he took another bite before setting his snack on the sink, an olive slipping free and rolling down the drain as he checked his face. Bending over to unlace his shoes, he called around the corner. \"That you, Shads? Hey, sorry I didn't text first. I took off the minute I got up. Great party last night, but man, I just had to sweat it all out, hehe. I snagged a sammich from your fridge, hope that's okay.\" Stepping out of his shoes, he finally rounded the corner, eyes going wide at the sight. \"Are you-- Wow!\" he blinked, absent-mindedly adjusting his bulge. \"Uh… hey, guys! Having some fun? I kinda thought we were gonna, you know, do this tonight, maybe. But there's nothing wrong with a warmup! Um… I was actually gonna shower, but you think maybe I could--\"\n\n \"Get in, blue butt,\" chuckled Shadow, helping Espio gently pull out. A thick pool of cum followed the lizard's softening cock as it slipped out and rested atop the fox's balls. \"You belong here anyway, with your fox and I. But your food and dirty shoes do not,\" he smirked, pointing towards the door. \"House rules, blue.\"\n\n \"Boots off for booty?\" giggled Espio, nestling dreamily back against the hedgehog.\n\n \"Aww, come on guys, I was starving! That is [i]not[/i] a short run,\" pleaded Sonic, taking a huge bite as another olive bounced on the floor. He picked it up and ate it, sucking his fingers as Shadow sighed. \"I can finish it while someone gets me hard, hehe.\" The dark hedgehog shook his head and pointed again. \"Fine,\" huffed Sonic, rolling his eyes and snatching up his shoes before dashing out the door.\n\n \"There's better things to eat in here, Sonic!\" giggled Tails, blowing a kiss, which the hedgehog ‘caught' as he returned, playfully tucking it inside the front of his tenting shorts.\n\n \"Dirty socks in the hamper,\" added Shadow, massaging Espio's soft shoulders as Sonic groaned and stomped back out the door. He chuckled and gently pulled out of the chameleon, who grunted softly and cuddled as Shadow kissed his shoulder. \"Silly boy. Let's see what he wants to do.\"\n\n \"Works for me,\" grinned Espio, pulling Tails to a sitting position and kissing him sweetly. Now free to turn around, the chameleon kissed Shadow as well, hanging his arms around his neck. \"I feel spoiled rotten already.\"\n\n \"Hope you can handle some more, scaly-butt,\" grinned Sonic, returning minus the sandwich and socks. Standing at the tub's edge, he smiled and hooked his thumbs in his shorts, pushing them down until his azure and tan cock popped free of the waistband. Curved, veiny and only slightly cut, it was akin to the ninja's in size, longer than Tails' but shorter Shadow's, thick and handsome nonetheless. It wagged stiffly over a his attractive blue balls as he stepped out of his shorts. \"I thought about sex most of way up here,\" he grinned, picking up the shorts and slingshotting them down the hall. \"Any idea how hard it is to run with a chubster?\" Hopping into the tub, he smacked and squeezed Shadow's ass before giving his smirking host a deep, licky, affectionate kiss, the pair nuzzling tenderly as green eyes danced with crimson. \"Mmmff… I missed you, TDH.* And I missed you too, sweet foxy of mine,\" he smiled, pulling Tails up by both hands and kissing just as deeply, the hedgehog's hands sliding down to firmly squeeze the fox's squishy, freshly filled buns. \"Are you keeping the guys happy, propeller-butt?\"\n\n[i]*TDH = Tall Dark and Hedgehog, an early series nickname for Shadow that Sonic refuses to stop using and which Shadow secretly loves[/i]\n\n \"Yeah,\" blushed Tails, rubbing Sonic's chest and suckling his neck and chin.\n\n \"Mmmmm… good boy,\" nodded Sonic, noticing the cummy, lube-enhanced slick between the fox's cheeks. He petted under Tails' namesakes, rubbing his fingertips over the squishy ring in slow circles. \"You like taking lots of nice fat hedgie-dick, don't you? Hedgie loves his naughty foxy,\" he nuzzled, squeezing Tails' erection against his own as the fox moaned softly. \"And now our sweet ninja pal gets to play too. Did you guys kiss and make up?\"\n\n \"Soniiic,\" groaned Tails bashfully, hiding his face against the hedgehog's chest as the others shared a chuckle. \"Yes we did, you're embarrassing me!\"\n\n \"What's that?\" snickered Sonic, winking at the others, \"you love me?\"\n\n \"I love you,\" came the muffled response, the fox wiggling his tush in Sonic's hands.\n\n \"Good!\" winked the blue beau, pulling back and giving the red-faced fox a playful smooch on the lips. \"You too, sexy scales,\" smiled Sonic at Espio, reaching down for an affectionate fondle. \"Bring it on in here.\"\n\n \"Well, I-- Mmmph!\" The chameleon's eyes went wide as Sonic leaned in and frenched him without further ado, but he soon found himself melting into the licky, athletic kiss, reaching up to caress the runner's broad, smooth chest and the fox's soft head resting on it. The lizard's blush turned blue in places, perfectly matching the hedgehog's cheerful hue as their tongues and lips suckled and swirled. The other two smiled knowingly as the kiss broke, the foursome holding one another's butts in a loose circle. \"I never knew you guys were this close,\" swallowed the lizard, warmly petting Shadow and Tails' rumps as he gazed shyly across at Sonic. \"Or dreamed I'd be invited to share…. it's beautiful. I… I hope it's all right to say, this weekend I belong to all of you,\" he blushed.\n\n \"Aww… yes I agree, and yes you may, and yes you do,\" winked Sonic, slipping his hands down to squeeze Shadow and Tails' buns before kissing each male respectively. \"You're in our house now, Espio. We're yours, too. Mmmfff… seeing you guys, all horny and loving,\" he nodded, his throat getting tight and dry, \"makes me really [i]really[/i] wanna pop my cork, hehe.\"\n\n \"Then we really really ought to help you,\" chuckled Shadow, surreptitiously sliding his fingers under Sonic's tail and petting his pucker, the blue hedgehog wagging and moaning at the touch. \"There are a lot of options. Espio just bred our lovely fox, and I was about to breed him. What might blue butt like?\" \n\n \"This!\" grinned Sonic, pushing Shadow down into the tub with a huge splash that sent water over the edge as the surprised fox and lizard giggled and held one another.\n\n \"Oaf!\" sputtered Shadow as his face resurfaced. He shook out his quills as Sonic straddled and held him in place with his strong legs. The dark hedgehog's soaked kimono clung like a second skin as he huffed sourly at Sonic, who grinned wide and helped him peel it off. \"Rouge bought me this, if it shrinks I'm going to spank you!\"\n\n \"I hope so,\" giggled Sonic, tossing the kimono over the towel rack. \"Here. Lay up here on your back,\" he smiled, patting the wide ledge between the tub and the picture window. \"I know how to make it up to ya.\" Begrudgingly at first, the obsidian hedgehog did as bidden, his scowl lifting as the firm, sun- and steam-warmed planks soothed his back. Climbing out, Sonic grabbed the lube and straddled Shadow again before squirting some on his fingertips, reaching behind to slick up his ring before stroking the rest over Shadow's pole prodding his blue buns. Bottle in hand, he beckoned to the fox and lizard. \"Tails? Come. Let's give his mouth something better to do than complain. Espio?\" grinned Sonic, winking at the bashful lizard and patting the ledge, \"come stand next to me. I want to give that purple sword of yours a proper hedgehog hello. Then we'll take care of that sweet little butt.\"\n\n \"Ambitious as always--nnnfff,\" grinned Shadow, biting his lip as Sonic reached back and directed his cock inside, wiggling and sliding his tight, fit ass down over the rehardening girth. Both hedgehogs closed their eyes and grunted softly as Sonic's bubbled buns slowly but surely consumed the whole of Shadow's towering cock, his large, loose obsidian orbs snuggling firmly into Sonic's crack.\n\n \"Ooooohhhhh,\" sighed Sonic dreamily, brow furrowed as he pried open his buns to squeeze in the last bit of length, his blue and tan rod jutting up over the dark hedgehog's belly as he started to leak as Shadow moaned deeply. \"So good,\" he nodded breathlessly, stretched wide and filled tight as his insides parted way. \"Dang… I swear I can feel you in my lungs, big hog…. Nnnfff!\" Hands to thighs, the blue hedgehog's buns pinched in cutely as he began to ride. He took Espio's hand as the lizard climbed out, dripping on the ledge as he stood bashfully at Sonic's shoulder. The hedgehog smiled up at him and playfully kissed his cock.\n\n Tails, meanwhile, squeezed the water from his namesakes and got out to straddle Shadow's head, facing Sonic as he gracefully draped his twin plumes aside. Stroking excitedly, he patted his butt and grinned down at shadow. \"You like?\"\n\n \"Gimme,\" nodded the dark hedgehog, rumbling at the sight of vulpine nethers nestling down to his face. His big, firm hands grabbed the fox's cheeks, squeezing as his muzzle parted the fox's warm, wet crevice, rimming and suckling the perfectly pink, freshly fucked foxhole pressing to his mouth. Tails' face radiated pleasure, moaning mouth hanging open with eyes at half-lids, feeling up his ruff as he felt the fighter's experienced tongue and attentive lips work and pleasure his pucker and taint, pausing only to give playful love bites to the inside of his cheeks. Sonic winked, leaning forward and giving the fox a long, deep kiss. \"Mmmff… someone just got way harder inside me,\" he grinned, riding the black and red pole just a tad faster. \"Good fox. Grind it for him!\"\n\n \"Ngurffrrmnnuhh,\" nodded Tails, painting and wobbling a bit as he switched to fondling Sonic's chest, the steamy bath filling with the slurpy, slick sounds of eaten ass and ridden cock.\n\n Reaching behind Espio, Sonic fondled and squeezed the chameleon's perky rump. \"And now for you, sexy scaly,\" he nodded, pressing in and kissing the crease between the chameleon's thigh and crotch, murring as he felt the ninja's warm cock press to his cheek. Reaching up, he squeezed the big purple pole, stroking it against his face and burying his head in the chameleon's crotch. \"Mmmmm… you smell so good… you've got a great bod, too.\"\n\n \"Th-thank you,\" blushed the chameleon, face hot and tingly as his extremities quivered. \"You look spectacular… all of you do.\" He swallowed hard and chuckled, breath quickening from the anticipation. \"I… I'm not sure I'll last very long this time, if you're going to do what I think you're going to do.\"\n\n \"And what am I going to do?\" grinned Sonic, stroking the ninja's cock as he leaned in and sucked the crease between thigh and ball-sack, bringing out a low, grateful moan.\n\n \"Ooooohhhhh…\" The chameleon's face and torso colors shifted, deepening red as he throbbed extra hard in the hedgehog's hand. \"I've… I've dreamed about this… one of my very best friends is about to… to… use his mouth on me… hnnnhh…\" \n\n \"You mean two very best friends,\" licked Sonic, lapping lasciviously up the underside of the ninja's tasty, straight pole and kissing the tip. \"Because my beautiful fox is gonna team up with me. Let's give him the extra special kiss, Tails!\" The flushed, giggling pair of Shadow-straddlers leaned in and trapped the ninja's cockhead between their mouths, suckling and slurping eagerly together. Espio's legs nearly went slack; he cradled each of their heads, caressing soft ears and silky quills as both horny, loving boys worked him over. \"Oh! Suh-- sweet Chaos! Yes… YES!!\" The ninja panted and bucked, watching his slobbered-on shaft slip and slide in the heavenly space between muzzles, leaving no part of his rod unloved. \"Ooooohhhhh…. guh-- good boys! Suck that cock… take turns… please!\" Obliging happily, the blue and orange duo alternated, one sucking deep as the other licked the side. A fast, pearly stream of precum began leaking, only to be suckled away as quickly as it came. The ninja closed his eyes and steadied himself, heart pounding as each male took turns devouring him, then alternating between cock and ball-sack, the bath filling with mixed male moans and wet, slurpy, slappy sex. \n\n Reaching across to masturbate Tails as they blew the ninja, Sonic slipped his tongue into the fox's mouth alongside with the chameleon's cock. The fox closed his eyes and whimpered, suckling lustfully against the hedgehog's tongue, then Espio's cock, then both once more, slowly grinding his ass against Shadow's probing, licky, tongue. The chameleon's cock popped obscenely from his mouth as he moaned louder, a strand of pre and saliva briefly connecting his chin to Sonic's as Shadow grabbed his tails and hoisted him, sucking the fox's tightening balls from below and finger-fucking his foxhole. Shadow spat on it obscenely before rimming it clean and repeating the circuit. Tails twitched and leaked copiously, mirroring Sonic's bicolor pole as it bounced and slapped Shadow's belly, leaving a pool of pre in his navel as the dark hedgehog fucked faster and harder, bouncing the blue rider and his raw, tight, slick boi-pussy. Ignoring his own cock, Sonic stayed focused on Tails and Espio's, moans muffled he stroked and sucked feverishly. Scooping the precum from Shadow's belly, Sonic slipped his fingers under Espio's tail, smearing the lizard's hole before twisting in a digit, then a second, fingering the moaning, clenching reptile. Sonic panted and smiled, catching his breath as Tails took over cocksucking. Steam now fogged all the windows, the candle's pleasant fragrance mixed with the scent of sex, of sweat, saliva and semen as the foursome careened towards climax. All felt it, but little was said beyond rumbles, whimpers, moans and grunts, their individual releases feeding into one another. \n\n Pitted once more against two, the ninja gave first, his engorged purple prick preparing to spit, his balls drawn too tight to suck anymore as his ring gripped Sonic's fingers like a vise. \"Hnnghfff! Suh-- Sonic! Tails! I'm coming! I'm coming!! NNGGGHH! AAAHHH! AAAHHH!!\" As his pulsating glans shot thinner but no less generous sprays of hot cum, the servicing duo pressed to intercept, frenching the lizard's glans together, eager tongues and lips lapping the sticky treat as each murred into the other's mouth. Sonic's digits thrust and wiggled inside the lizard's hole, prolonging orgasm while Tails' fingers tugged and fiddled Shadow's nipples, thumbing the hard, fleshy nubs inside the heaving white ruff. The sound, sight and taste of Espio's orgasm fired off the fox next, huffing loudly as Sonic jerked him faster and Shadow rimmed haerder. The panting fox leaned back, cottony chest and reddened face spattered with cum, eyes distant and mouth open as an intense orgasm gripped his face.\n\n \"Yeah!\" cheered Sonic, carefully slipping his fingers from the ninja and tugging Shadow's balls as he played with the fox's fluffy chest. \"Blow for us, cutie. Let Shads feel that ring goin' nuts on his tongue! He's a big ol' perv, he loves that!\"\n\n \"Suh-- Sonic! Yeah! Coming… coming!! UUUhhhnnnggghhh!!\" slurred the fox, hugging around the hedgehog's neck as he spurted, his tight, long-pent balls smooshed atop Shadow's chin as he shot hard and fast all over the dark hedgehog's chest and stomach, some splattering the blue hedgehog's belly, cock and thighs. A loud, rumbling moan vibrated him from below as Shadow locked lips, sucking the vulpine's twitching ring, prolonging his climax. To the dreamy fox's surprise, Shadow suddenly hoisted him again, opening his panting mouth and directing his still-squirting cock inside, suckling it with lustful relish. \"OOOooohhhhh! Shadow!\" squealed Tails, pushing his cummy curve deeper into the pleasure, the hedgehog moaning and slurping it clean like a treasured delicacy.\n\n \"Sonic!\" panted Shadow desperately as the fox's drained bone slipped free, \"go fast!\"\n\n \"Here we go!\" grinned Sonic, leaning back and and jacking himself. \"Come on, you spiky, big-dicked edgehog! Nut me! Uhhnnff! Breed me like a bitch!!\" Licking his lips, he rode hard and fast, using his tireless thighs and flexible hips to bounce, grind, gyrate and pump Shadow's cock. His athletic buns rose and fell, faster and faster, his wet, pink boi-pussy swallowing pole from tip to balls, over and over. Shadow gripped Sonic's hips as his muscular thighs and big obsidian jewels slapped urgently. Sonic's mouth hung agape, drooling dreamily at the deep, thick, extra hard pounding. \"WhooOOAAooAA! Ah! Ah! Yeah! Guh-- get that suh-- pussy Shads, GET it!\" stammered Sonic, his voice disjointed and bouncing from the force of the fighter's thrusts. Head pressed between Tails' thighs, the dark hedgehog tensed and roared as he came, fangs bared and ruff heaving as orgasm wracked his body and surged out his cock, blasting jets of thick, hot hedgehog cream deep into Sonic's belly, flooding around his pulsating member until seed squirted out between ring and shaft and oozed down over the vocal shooter's scrunched-up sack. \"D-- Damn, Shadow!\" quivered Sonic, sweaty and blushing bright as he reached behind and gently squeezed the breathless fighter's emptied, cum-coated jewels. \"Mmmmm… I felt [i]all[/i] of that, big shooter,\" he murred, wiggling down to try and keep it all in. \"So much… so hot and squishy, hehe. You want me to shoot on your chest too?\" he patted, his big blue and tan rod leaking and ready.\n\n Shadow was still rumbling contently as Tails backed up and kissed him. He smiled softly as the fox played with his quills. \"Much as I love that, you two literally took every drop out of me. I don't wish to be selfish.\" He took Tails' hand and kissed it, then kissed Sonic's before reaching over to twirl Espio's tail tip around his finger. \"Our honored guest has not yet had the pleasure. What do you say, ninja? Care to try out a high speed blue drilling?\" he winked.\n\n \"I'd… I'd love to,\" blushed Espio, caressing blue hedgehog's soft neck and shoulders. \"But I too don't wish to be selfish, I feel your boyfriend should go first, Sonic. You guys have already spoiled me,\" he chuckled. \"And I love it.\"\n\n \"Whaddya say, Tails?\" winked Sonic, leaning over and kissing the fox warmly.\n\n \"Give that ninja some wild blue yonder,\" grinned the fox, nuzzling back and fondling affectionately. \"I want to watch him try out my hedgie. Besides, um… my butt's kinda sore now, hehe. I'll be ready again tonight, though! I'll even wear those panties and things you guys got me,\" he winked, smooching the hedgehog's nose.\n\n \"Hot damn, it's a deal!\" beamed Sonic, squeezing Tails' hands and kissing deeply back. He rose carefully, letting Shadow's length slowly snake free, leaking more seed at first but managing to hold most of the load as he shook out his quills and stood, his erection brushing Espio's as he took the blushing lizard's hips and pulled him in close. \"Hey, spy guy,\" he winked, giving the lizard a playful nuzzle, the ninja's gold eyes smiling into his. \"You heard my fox. How do you wanna do this?\"\n\n \"Hmm…\" Espio placed a finger to his chin and held the hedgehog's hip, pressing against Sonic's curved, leaking cock as the pair slowly swayed together. \"As a ninja, I'm big on tradition,\" he smiled, looking up lovingly into Sonic's eyes. \"And tradition demands a kiss…\" Without another word, he pressed his lips to the hedgehog's mouth and slipped in his talented tongue, suckling and sliding and sparring with the surprised hedgehog's. Sonic slowly melted into the kiss, his hands roaming over the ninja's sleek sides and cute hips before finding and squeezing his buns anew. At length, the magenta lizard swayed in Sonic's arms, curling his own around the hedgehog's neck as he nibbled his jawline. \"I hope you don't find my choice too simple, but…\" The lizard stepped over to the edge of the tub where Shadow and Tails were spooning and switched the bubbling jets to maximum. Turning his back, he looked playfully over his shoulder at Sonic and climbed out, crouching to all fours on the ledge with his toes still in the water. As the color in his limbs and back shimmered and deepened, he pulled aside his long, elegant tail and curled it around his arm, showing off his tight hole and handsome hanging jewels. \"I want you to take me like this,\" he huffed, blushing and blowing a kiss to the excited speedster, who caught it and placed it on his lips. \"I want to submit.\"\n\n \"I'll be your sexecutioner,\" winked Sonic, the four males sharing a giggle as Sonic stood behind and cock-slapped the lizard's upturned rump. \"All these years I've known you, wishing we could be closer… I'm actually trembling a bit. But you look so perfect. Mmmff...\" He blushed and licked his lips, hotdogging his cock inside the presented purple crevice. \"I love you, dude. You know that. Are you sure it's not going to get weird if we fuck? Like, for your crew?\"\n\n \"We're a little past that, but no,\" chuckled Espio, folding his arms and laying his head down as the spooning fox and fighter caressed his neck and shoulders. \"I'm damn proud to be bi. Especially now, with you three,\" he smiled, his tail curling around the hedgehog as he wiggled his rump. \"Now [i]fuck[/i] me!\"\n\n \"Here it comes, ninja boy,\" grinned Sonic, guiding himself to the chameleon's hole and pushing in. The tight, slick ring resisted at first, clenching as Espio grunted softly and bit his knuckle, brow furrowed as he relaxed himself. As his cockhead sunk in all the way, the patient hedgehog paused, letting the chameleon stretch and acclimate more before slowly penetrating deeper. \n\n \"Ooooff… are all hedgehogs this thick?\" chuckle-grunted the lizard, biting his lip as the hot, stretchy, tingly fullness returned, \"or am I--nngghh!--just lucky? Oooohhh… Keep going, blue… Hnnghh...\" He felt more of Sonic's hardened girth snake in, parting his back door even more as his tight, velvety walls made way. Espio took a deep breath, eyes closed as he wiggled his tush to help, grinding this way and that as his wide-open ass slipped towards the hedgehog's hilt. \"So full… just like Master,\" he murred, drooling into his wrist, \"is it all in?\"\n\n \"Just about,\" huffed Sonic, licking his lips and giving a sudden thrust that plunged him deep past the pinkish-purple pucker, his spongy cockhead bumping hard against the lizard's prostate. Espio's surprised gasp became loud moans, louder still as the hedgehog smacked his butt cheeks, grinning as he watched them jiggle firmly. Mouth open and speechless, Espio's eyes watered as the hedgehog's big blue balls bumped the back of his own. He gripped the chameleon's waist and grinned. \"Now [i]that's[/i] all of me, hehehe. You doing okay?\"\n\n \"Fuah! Fuck!! UUuuhhhhnnnggghhh!!\" blinked the ninja, his face flooding with reds, pinks and purples as his cock jumped and twitched. \"Oh, Chaos…. like Master does it,\" he panted, swallowing and wiggling as penetrative pleasure ricocheted through his body. \"Uhhnn!! I can feel you… every curve, every throb,\" he murred, slipping a hand down to stroke himself. \"Please! Suh… Sonic… fuck me!\"\n\n \"So tight and warm,\" nodded Sonic, pulling back and thrusting steadily. \"Not like the stereotypes at all… you've got a great pussy,\" he panted, smacking the lizard's ass again and squeezing his hips. \"Oh, yeah… Secret's out now, scaly. We're all gonna have to fuck you!\"\n\n \"Gods, yesssss,\" hissed Espio, moaning and curling his tail around Sonic's waist, pulling at his hips as he happily jacked faster. \n\n Sonic concentrated, wagging as he fucked faster, his balls tapping the back of the lizard's as he bore down and bashed, working and wrecking the wonderfully hot, wet, velvety boi-cunt. \"Ohhhhh… fffuck! Essspio!\" he panted, brow dripping sweat on the chameleon's bouncing, slapping buns, his cock leaking intensely as his eyes drew to lusty slits. \"Gonna [i]breed[/i] you, breed you good!\" Grabbing a hip and a shoulder in each hand, he upped his speed even more, filling the bath the the sound of rhythmic ass-slapping as the spooning spectators enjoyed the show. The dark hedgehog surreptitiously popped his tip into Tails' squishy foxhole, making him blush, giggle and wiggle back as they watched the whirring blue and purple pair. Sonic's heart raced. The chameleon was so cute, so aroused, so verbal, his compact frame taking it all so eagerly. Sonic felt his time draw up rapidly. \"Uhhhnnn!! Ohhhhh… finally fucking you, Espio… so hot… I wanna shoot inside you, sweet scaly,\" pleaded Sonic, gripping the ninja's hips for the furious home stretch. Thighs clapped legs, belly bumped buns and balls bounced balls as hedgehog's hips went woodpecker fast. \n\n \"Mmmff! Nuhhh! Yesss… yes… YESSS!\" quaked the chameleon, his slender hips trying in vain to keep up with the hedgehog's mad thrusts. \"Come inside me! I want it! I-- Ah! Ah!! AAAHH!!\" Rapidly fisting his cock, the lizard tugged with his tail, toes curling and uncurling as orgasm came again like an ocean swell, building and building, rising and breaking, his raw, battered, stretched fuck-hole twitching tight around the blurred azure piston. \"Sonic! HNNGGH!!!\"\n\n \"Oh, sexy scaly… I'm… I'm there too!! Huh! Here I come!!\" Gripping hips, Sonic howled and bashed himself balls deep into the ninja a few final times, his engorged cock practically jumping as it unleashed, creaming the climaxing chameleon with hot, thick, sticky jets of seed. \"AAAAHH! Huahhhh! Huahhhh… huuhhhh… mmmmmff…\" As the panting blue blur downshifted his hips, the lizard's squeezing, spasming boi-cunt coaxed out every last drop, the brimming lizard still moaning copiously after having shot his own load on the floor, as well as his belly, chest and chin. He could feel the hedgehog's hot fluid pool inside him, his partner's cock still throbbing long after there was nothing left to shoot. Shadow kissed the top of Tails' head and squeezed as they watched the others catch their breath. It was some time before anyone spoke, the sweaty, interlocked pairs caressing contently over the hot tub's soft, sparkly hiss.\n\n \"Mmmmm…. sweet heavens, Sonic,\" murred the ninja, reaching underneath himself to caress the hedgehog's emptied balls cuddled against his own, slowly wiggling his raw, skewered ring over the squishy hilt. Laying his cheek dreamily on his arms, he hugged the hedgehog tight with his tail, keeping him inside for as long as possible. \"Thank you…\"\n\n \"Feel closer to me now?\" winked Sonic, wiping his brow as the lizard nodded contentedly, taking soft caresses from the two spooners. He lifted the chameleon's tail and draped it over his shoulder, giving the soft appendage a loving smooch. As he caressed the chameleon's back, the tail hugged back. \"And the weekend's only just starting,\" he grinned, blowing kisses to Tails and Shadow. \n\n \"I don't know how it could get any better,\" murred Tails, flushed and warm as he felt Shadow's spongy, thick shaft throb in agreement against his ring. As the foursome savored the reverie, footsteps crunched softly outside, growing louder until they noticed it over the whoosh of the tub. Ears twitched and heads turned as a familiar face popped into the bottom corner of the picture window.\n\n \"Sup, bitches!\" grinned Knuckles, wiping the glass and peering in. \"Doesn't anyone answer the door these days?\"\n\n \"Hey, red rocks! You made it!\" beamed Sonic, waving as he stayed buried the ninja, who gasped and hid his face with one of Tails' tails. \"You owe me fifty rings, Espio totally bottomed first, hehe.\"\n\n \"C-commander!\" stammered Espio, clenching around Sonic as the hedgehog giggled and playfully smacked his rump. \"I wasn't expecting any others, I-- it's not what you think!\"\n\n Knuckled roared with laughter, his face nearly dipping out of view. \"It's not? Hey, somebody check my eyes, because I thought I saw our ninja fam having a balls-deep good time,\" he cried, wiping a tear and shaking his head. \"Relaaaaax, dude. The ladies won't care. Heck, even I take the D once in a while. Anyways, speaking of sausage, I brought tons of pizza from last night and a buttload of drinks. Aaaaaand lookit what [i]else[/i] I brought!\" A second face leaned in, peering shyly through foggy glass slats. \n\n \"Silver?\" blinked Tails, leaning up to get a better look. The fox gasped, his eyes going as wide as his smile. \"Silver! You finally came!\" he beamed as Shadow and Sonic waved, the host blowing him a gentle kiss. Silver blushed and smiled, leaning bashfully against Knuckles. \"Oh, I want to show Silver around! Can I, Shadow? Please!?\"\n\n \"It's ‘may' I Shadow, and yes, you may,\" he nuzzled, kissing the fox's cheek as he gently slid out. \"But spruce up first and go easy on him. We do want him to come back, after all.\" \n\n \"H-Hello Tails, it's nice to--er--see you again, hehe. All of you,\" smiled Silver, peering in curiously with fingers to lip as Knuckles patted his back. \"Goodness! You always told me your weekends up here were for strategic planning sessions, Shadow. This looks like more like a private retreat,\" he chuckled.\n\n \"Can't it be both?\" winked the dark hedgehog, idly playing with the fox's tail tips as the latter rose and blew Silver a kiss before running to the shower. \"My home is yours, Silver. I'm very glad you came. You too, Knux. I hope you intend to stay. But be warned, you'll probably be spoiled rotten, as Espio put it,\" he grinned, booping the lizard's horn as Espio reared up and spooned with Sonic, who reached around and caressed the lizard's smooth belly and softening cock.\n\n \"I'd… I'd love to!\" wagged Silver, hands to chest ruff as he bit his lip and nodded excitedly. \n\n \"Good, because we're homeless this weekend,\" snickered Knuckles, reaching down for his duffel bag. \"Blaze, Amy, Tangle, Tikal and a bunch of the others booted us for some kind of gals-only healing celebration thing. Well, we weren't booted really, just told we'd be an embarrassment. No idea why they kept Buddy. Probably for sacrifice,\" he chuckled, patting Silver's rump. \"Anyways, thanks for having us, Shads. Come on Silv, help me carry stuff. You can play with all the nice wieners after-- whoa! Dude, is that all that yours? Nice!\" laughed the echidna, glancing below Silver's torso. Looking down himself, the hedgehog gasped and blushed harder, slapping his hands over his face before getting dragged from view.\n\n\n[i]Epilogue.[/i]\n\n \"Your privacy concerns are duly noted, Mr. Infinite,\" coaxed Omega, the towering robot mechanically scrubbing the rumpled jackal's wet, sudsy chest with a washcloth. \"But no others are present in this wing and bathing nude is optimal. I assure you I have no prurient interests. Here. Apply this combination of botanicals. They are alleged to restore your silky shine. Also they smell nice.\"\n\n \"Fine,\" grumbled the jackal, scowling in the oversize institutional tub as the robot squeezed shampoo on his hands. As he started to work it into his long locks, the jackal cocked an eye at the metallic minder methodically scrubbing his back. \"Look, it's been a week now. Must you actually bathe me? I'm a prisoner, not a cripple!\" \n\n Omega paused for a moment, suds dripping from his fingers as he processed. \"Invalid term applied. You mean disabled or limited mobility. You sustained injuries in combat. Also my data files say desert jackals take a dim view of bathing. I was concerned you might--\"\n\n \"Look robot, I said it before! DON'T believe whatever rubbish you've heard about us! Go on, keep scrubbing! See if I care! It… it feels kind of nice, actually,\" huffed Infinite, lathering his long hair as the robot resumed washing. The perturbed jackal shampooed in silence, then dipped below the water to rinse. He resurfaced and carefully squeezed out his locks. \"You know, you're awfully--er--attentive for someone I nearly destroyed in the first war. I half expected you to pummel me by now. What's wrong with you!?\"\n\n \"I did despise you, that is correct,\" nodded the robot, scrubbing lower. \"But the vengeance protocols became burdensome. They overrode other mission priorities and injected unwanted bias. My work suffered as a result. For example, I nearly destroyed a tourist helicopter. My AI had misidentified it as a hostile drone. No one was seriously injured. But Shadow did order me to seek counseling.\"\n\n \"Pfft! He's a control freak, of course he did,\" griped Infinite, letting the robot hoist his arm and wash his pit. \"I would have given you a medal for blowing them up. And counseling… feh. I've already had enough of those insipid clowns. Did it help you?\"\n\n \"It did not,\" offered Omega, washing the jackal's other arm. \"She asked about my parentage. I told her I am a unique construct with an enhanced self-learning autonomous AI. She queried my sexual preferences. I told her I find chrome attractive. She wished to know my feelings on mortality. I told her I am functionally immortal provided my backups are not destroyed. She inquired about my faith. I told her I had full confidence in my mission capabilities. She corrected to mean religious faith. I informed her that deities are not known to exist, however aliens and extraplanar beings have at times represented themselves as gods or been misidentified as such. She voiced skepticism at my response. I told her I had beaten several of them in combat and G.U.N. would readily verify my unclassified victories. She declined and asked me to role play my feelings. I said the room represented pointless conjecture and the glass door behind us represented a gateway to personal freedom. She directed me to show, not tell. So I smashed through the door and left. The bill was very expensive.\"\n\n Infinite clutched his stomach and roared with laughter, toes curling and splashing with joy as the robot waited for him to hold still. \"Ah, a man after my own heart. Er, robot, I mean,\" he chortled, blushing slightly as his tail was hoisted and rump scrubbed before the robot proceeded to his thighs. \"But… but if what she offered was useless, then how did you change?\"\n\n \"Simple. I asked G.U.N.'s lead technologist to deactivate my vengeance protocol,\" nodded Omega, scrubbing the jackal's shins. \"I feel much better now. I no longer harbor an irrational impulse to destroy you or others who have wronged me.\"\n\n \"Lucky us,\" scoffed the jackal, rinsing his face. He winced and hissed as the washcloth brushed over his genitals. \"Ow.\"\n\n \"My apologies,\" paused Omega. \"Are you still experiencing testicular discomfort? I understand Mr. Prower clobbered--\"\n\n \"They're fine, they're fine, stop touching!\" shooed Infinite, taking the cloth and gingerly washing himself. Once he had finished and rinsed, the jackal stood and exited the tub, shaking the water from his head, torso, rump and tail as Omega shielded himself from the spray with a towel before handing it to him.\n\n \"You are visually much improved,\" nodded Omega, helping the jackal towel off. \"Surely you must feel better as well.\"\n\n \"Hnnff. A little,\" he frowned, pensively drying his long, silky hair. \"It's lonely here. I'm glad I have you, robot. I must be going crazy, I actually want to talk to Shadow again, of all things,\" he scowled, spitting fur from his lips. \"So, Omega. That deleted vengeance--\"\n\n \"Deactivated,\" he corrected. raising a finger.\n\n \"Whatever, deactivated,\" waved the jackal, drying his crotch, \"you don't feel… like less of a warrior now?\" \n\n Omega shook his head. \"I do not.\" He picked up a blow dryer and plugged it into his arm, speaking louder as he dried the jackal's coat. \"If anything, I am more effective because I focus on victory, not vengeance.\"\n\n \"Hmph! If only it were that easy for rest of us,\" replied Infinite, toweling his chest, belly and butt. \n\n \"It is,\" offered Omega, pausing the dryer. \"Organic brains have a phenomenal capacity to change their own configuration. They emote, but they can also mitigate how they feel. How much and for how long. They can even forgive and forget without reprogramming. An enviable feature. Here. Put this on,\" he nodded, holding up a thick white bathrobe.\n\n \"I do not end my grudges lightly… if ever,\" squinted Infinite, slipping on the robe and checking his hair in the foggy mirror. \n\n \"Then you have allowed the targets of your vengeance to define you,\" replied the robot, standing behind the jackal and blowing his hair. \"Were I organic, I would not give them such a strategic advantage. Nor would I spend my finite lifespan living unhappily.\" \n\n The damp jackal stared in the mirror at the philosophizing robot. \"But… what if I'm not ready to let go? Or I just don't WANT to!? I'm still angry inside, Omega. Very, very angry! About a [i]lot[/i] of things.\"\n\n \"That is natural. And it will take time to overcome,\" nodded Omega, handing a brush to Infinite. Pressing a small panel on his chest, the robot played soft classical music as the jackal brushed his hair, chest ruff and tail. \"If I may make a recommendation: jettison your vengeance, as I did. Being vengeful did not reap the benefits I had calculated. Shadow went through very much the same process. He knows it is not easy. And he wants to help you.\"\n\n \"You mean help me into his bed,\" muttered Infinite, brushing roughly. \"Nothing is free, robot. I got off easy because HE wants a… a pet! He literally told me as much. And then we punched each other. At least he was honest, I suppose.\" The jackal squinted, pointing at tiny lights blinking on the robot's chest. \"Is he listening to us? He is, isn't he? Well listen up, you sad old cock gobbler! You want a pet? You want me to bend over and spread my cheeks for you!? The only way THAT'S gonna happen is if--\"\n\n \"Shadow cannot hear us,\" interrupted Omega, pointing to the light. \"That's just the kitchen. They will close in T-minus thirty minutes. If you still desire pizza, so state and identify your toppings. The limit is three.\"\n\n \"Uh… sure,\" sighed the jackal, finger and shoulders drooping as the robot hung the towel to dry. \"Pepperoni, I guess. No wait,\" he thought, finger to chin. \"Pineapple and ham. With anchovies.\"\n\n \"I have relayed your order,\" nodded Omega, who turned back to his charge. \"I must now escort you back to your quarters. Entertainment options include games, videos and… please wait.\" The robot paused, fingers to the side of his head. \"The cook is responding. He is displeased with your request. He says it is nauseating. He will have to walk all the way to the storage annex to locate anchovies. And pineapple. He will do it, but says you are evil.\"\n\n \"He… he did?\" blinked the jackal, a small smile brightening his face as he looked up at Omega. \"Thanks, robot. That means a lot to me.\" The jackal hugged the hulking metal sentinel, who gently hugged back.\n","writing_bbcode_parsed":"Ten Miles of Shadow
by Valdis the Bard


Disclaimer and warning. This story is entirely fictional and for entertainment purposes only.  I do not own the SEGA characters or any guest characters and no monetary gain was made or sought.  This story is for adults only and contains explicit depictions of sex (e.g. gay, anthropomorphic, yaoi) and mild violence.  If you are under the age of eighteen or find such themes offensive, read no further.  The author accepts no responsibility to any who ignore this disclaimer.  This work is free to share, in whole or in part, unaltered and with proper credit.  Enjoy!  -Valdis, April 2019


Episode 9 - Duels and Delights

       Knuckles wiped his brow and huffed, namesakes raised and ready as he squinted in the late afternoon sun.  He wished he had worn sunglasses.  He wished he was still enjoying a cold grape soda back in the weight room.  He wished dust and sweat weren't clinging to him from brow to ballsack.  And he especially wished he and his troops weren't staring down an angry wall of well-armed Jackal Squad slowly encircling them in the middle of a scrubby volcanic valley.  Alerted by Shadow, he had ordered a full scale search for Espio and Tails just hours ago, but as Resistance units and their G.U.N. advisers began chasing leads, enemy sightings and skirmishes popped up across South Island's vastness, forcing the echidna to divert his resources.  Whittled down to thirty or so, Knuckles' task group doggedly had pursued sightings far into the Rift Zone, a volcanic desert northwest of the Lava Barrens, themselves no picnic.  Using assault landers to cover the jagged expanse, they soon zeroed in on Facility 27, a largely forgotten storage annex slowly rusting in the desert sun.  Only moments had passed since finally catching up with the confused ninja and unconscious fox--and the dozens, if not hundreds, of jackals lying in wait.  Most were on foot, with others perched menacingly on well-worn motorcycles and ATVs.  A trio of repaired Eggman mechs stood at the mob's rear.  To the sweaty, perturbed echidna, options were few and dwindling fast.

       "What are they waiting for?  It's plain as day we're outnumbered," grumbled Knuckles, watching scores of agitated jackals fiddle with their clubs, knives, chains and fists.  "You guys see Mask Boy anywhere?"

       "Not yet," replied Silver, the hedgehog's hands poised and glowing as he stood beside the echidna peering from face to snarling face.  Many jackals seemed leery of his luminous limbs and kept their distance.  Playing on their fears, Silver kept up the display, but less cautious foes waved their weapons and howled for blood as they edged closer.  Undaunted and well trained, the echidna's troops were pumped too, some already drawn into heated, chest-beating exchanges.  Adrenaline flowed as fangs bared; insults and spittle flew; hackles rose as ears flattened.  Keeping a sharp eye on the present dangers, Silver calmly focused his mind on those unseen.  "I thought I felt something, but…  it's gone."

       "He was here," warned Espio, the ninja poised on Knuckles' other side with razor-sharp shuriken at the ready.  "For only a moment, hovering above the facility.  It certainly wasn't Shadow as I was expecting.  From what you've told me, I've been deceived… and dishonored."  He sighed heavily and steeled himself.  Having recognized the purple phantom who had made their lives miserable for months, jackals nearest the ninja hurled vile insults and threats as Resistance ranks closed in protectively behind the lead trio and yelled back, cocking a flashy array of weapons.

       "It's not your fault," offered Knuckles, slicing the air with his hand.  "Fake orders, something got busted into, encryption…  I was lifting when Shadow ran up, couldn't make out half the shit he told me.  Then POOF!  He Chaoses outta there and all hell breaks loose.  I'm just glad we got to you before these guys did!"  The echidna punched his fists together.  "Now gimme some options guys, or I'm just gonna start punching!"

       "They're counting our heads.  They are eager to fight," squinted Silver, his unseen psychokinetic push separating some of the ballsier belligerents.  He sniffed the air and shook his head.  "Some fear, but not much.  Whatever is staying their hand, it won't last.  We have what we came for.  I say we retreat and regroup!"

       "I could make a break for the facility and lure them in, then take them out room by room," offered Espio, pulling mini binoculars from his shoe.  "A ninja specialty, would buy us some time."  He peered at the jackal higher-ups as they chatted confidently with the mech pilots casually smoking or suiting up inside the top hatches.  Jackals who had seized the warehouses below peered back through their own binoculars as more  rode in from the wastes.  "What exactly are we storing in there?"

       "Fuck if I know," shrugged Knuckles, shading his eyes and peering down.  "Twenty seven is G.U.N.'s deal, Shadow never fills me in.  Yo!  Valdis!"  Ears perking, a lanky red fox armed with a composite longbow and a quiver of ballistic arrows ran up from his comrades.  Clad in leather boots and black tactical vest with distinctive G.U.N. insignia, he stood at attention and removed his wide-brimmed feathered hat, revealing sharp green eyes and an unruly mop of purple hair.

       "Yes, Commander?" saluted the fox.

       "Hey.  What's your boss got stashed away down there?" queried Knuckles, thumbing at the complex.  "Anything we can't live without?"

       "Or anything that might tip the scales?" winked Espio, placing a hand on the fox's shoulder as Silver nodded eagerly.  "Some mechs of our own would do nicely."

       "Uh, we did have some captured mechs in there sirs, but they were all in pieces when I saw them," offered the fox, brushing the bangs from his eyes.  "Is Tails awake?  He might know!"  Valdis turned to the other fox, who sat rubbing his eyes by the ninja's motorcycle.  "Tails, sir!  What's inside Facility 27?"

       "Huh?  Oh… hey, Val.  Um, it's mostly a boneyard now," replied the groggy engineer, rubbing his wrists where his ropes had been cut.  Matted and pale from the long involuntary ride, he took a deep breath and grunted as he used the bike to pull himself up.  "Old parts…  uhnnff…  obsolete equipment, un-recycled metal…  oof."  Wobbly but standing, he shook out his namesakes and rubbed his blurry, itchy eyes.  "Those jackals might want it, but the good stuff is long gone."

       "Then we're gone, too.  Glad you're okay, kiddo!" smiled Knuckles, giving a thumbs up as Valdis walked over and offered Tails his canteen.  "Okay!  We're going to regroup with the others.  If these guys are dumb enough to still be here when we get back, we'll pound their asses into the sand!"  Cupping his mouth, he waved back the way they came.  "Resistance!  Prepare to retreat on my mark!  Back to the landers!  Buddy!  Whisper!  Gimme covering fire on those mechs!  G.U.N. group, take point!  Command will cover the rear!  Stand by!"  The echidna turned back to Tails, eagerly gulping water as Valdis ran to his station.  "You okay to run, pal?  Or fly?"

       As if to answer the echidna's question, the fox rose to join them but promptly fell to all fours, sending the canteen clattering on the rocks.  He got up quickly but wobbled the other way, missing Silver's outstretched hand and hitting his haunches before the hedgehog helped him up.  "Thanks, Silver," he gulped, squinting and wiping his clammy brow.  "Sorry, I'm still kinda dizzy.  Everything's all bright and blurry and I'm a little nauseous.  But I'll keep up, I promise!"

       "That should wear off pretty quick now that you're up," nodded Espio, leaning in and checking the fox's eyes.  "Stick close!"

       "Sorry Tails, but I'd never forgive myself if they caught you," thumbed Knuckles, crouched and ready to signal.  "Silver-- you got him?"

       "But I--" started the fox, picking up the canteen.

       "Come, Tails," nodded Silver, hands raised and radiant as he waved them at the jackals, their growling ranks pressing closer as they noticed enemy movement.  Fist-sized rocks and chunks of rebar came hurtling in, but a twitch of the hedgehog's fingers sent each one sailing back, bringing thuds and pained yelps.  The projectiles stopped.  Silver gracefully weaved the air again, levitating the surprised fox onto his back.  "Hang on tight," he nodded, hiking his passenger's legs around his waist.  "I'll need both hands free for this."

       "Okay.  Thank you, Silver," hugged Tails, a small blush brightening the hedgehog's resolute nod as the fox kissed his cheek and whispered.  "Good luck."

       As Knuckles inhaled to give the order, a familiar voice crackled in from his wrist communicator.  "Hey, Big Red!  It's Blue.  Yeah, facility thirteen was a big ol' nothingburger, just like the airport.  Maybe a dozen guys?  They couldn't wait to surrender, it feels like a setup.  What's up at twenty seven?  You guys find Tails and Espio yet?"

       "Sonic!" barked Knuckles into his wrist.  "Yeah, yeah, yeah!  We got 'em, safe and sound!  But there's a hundred or more J.S. here too, we're gonna bail!  Meet us at the rendezvous point on the double!"

       "Fast as I can!" yelled Sonic as more chatter came in.  "Save me some ass to kick!"
  
       "See you at the party, boys," crackled in Rouge, the sounds of accelerating landers and yelling agents in the background.  "I've got twenty G.U.N. elites and half a dozen mech crews ready to rock.  ETA fifteen minutes."

       "You're a goddess," huffed the echidna.  "Where's Shadow?  He's gone dark!"

       "He's not with you?" came the bat's puzzled reply.  "Hold up, we're rolling.  I gotta go!"

       "Commander, come in!" crackled Amy.  "Wave's group has secured their objective and are offering assistance!  I can also send--um, let's see--I have fifteen trainees here!  We can be there in--"

       "Wave yes, rookies no!" yelled Knuckles, raising his fist.  "Don't leave HQ empty, we don't know what else might go down!  Put those kids to work securing the place.  Keep your eyes peeled and your hammer handy!"

       "Please be careful!" she pleaded.  "I'll be waiting..."

       "Mmff.  Good girl.  Over and out!"  Puffing his chest, the echidna belted out the order.  "FALL BACK!"  His entire force began moving as one, flowing briskly back up the valley as jackals sounded the alarm.  Mechs whirred to life, but sniper fire zipped in seconds later, cutting cables and puncturing hydraulics as gasses hissed and fluids oozed.  Pilots ducked from view or screamed to be untethered; squad members hit the dirt or scrambled for cover as others gave chase.  Covering the rear, Knuckles, Espio and Silver backed away from a column of war-crying jackals rushing to intercept.  Through the din, Tails could hear Silver's hushed futurespeak as the hedgehog's arms and eyes began to glow a vivid ice blue.  

       Grace en Chaos Atara… ilya elementa, amin yala d'iin...  Lle va'al naa, amin va'al.  Lle grace naa, amin grace...  

       The air around them suddenly grew thin and cold.  The fox shivered.  He could feel a swirling field of energy building around the hedgehog's body, which grew rigid as he stopped and prepared to strike, his knees bent and boots locked to the ground.  The others watched wide-eyed as running and revving jackals closed within yards, raising their weapons up high.  

       Chaos Atara!  Ilya elementa, amin yala d'iin...  Lle va'al naa! AMIN VA'AL!

       Like a flash flood, a roar rose through the valley as ephemeral waves began emanating from Silver's brilliant fingers.  Small at first, they rose and swelled towards the jackals, some of whom gave pause at the strange sight challenging their advance.  The first waves to hit were little more than rude shoves; the jackals guffawed and advanced, resolved to pummel the strange magician standing in their way.  Silver's eyes turned shimmering white.  He repeated the strange incantation as if possessed, body frozen and quills wafting as the waves built higher, becoming bluer and more luminous as they extended from him, his body now wreathed in a swirling aura.  These were far less polite, pushing jackals back and knocking others over like a high tide; some began nervously turning tail as others looked to each other in confusion.  And then the chaos wave appeared.  Towering and ominous, it resembled an ocean wave, deep blue and shimmering, but it was transparent and crackled with telekinetic menace as it suddenly crashed through the valley.  Those who saw or heard it coming froze in their tracks.  Some turned and ran but were much too late, swept up in the irresistible grasp and bulldozed away.  All manner of debris went with them, the valley washed clear until a jumble of jackals, bikes, brush, stones, weapons and tattered equipment reached the rear ranks, ensnaring them as well.  As the wave ebbed and slowed, yelps of confusion, pain and fear mixed with calls for help.  "Spare sen, Chaos Atara.  Spare sen."  With those words, the wave dissipated entirely, as did the hedgehog's glow.  He slumped, panting with his hands to knees as his amazed passenger carefully slid from his back.

       "You… you never told me you could do THAT," marveled Tails, patting his back.

       "Senpai," bowed Espio to Silver, the ninja's hands clasped with fingers to forehead.

       "Yeah!  Holy shit, dude!" blinked Knuckles, surveying the aftermath and shaking his head.  "Got any more of those?"

       "No," he panted, swallowing hard and shaking his head.  "Not for a while, anyway.  I think I bought us some time, but it won't last.  The chaos wave isn't lethal, it just pushes."

       "Look at them," chuckled Espio, shading his eyes.  "What a mess.  They deserve it though, the cutthroats.  May as well push them off a cliff next time."

       "I--  I'm not--  I don't--"  The hedgehog began to stammer, huffing and reddening as his fists clenched.  "The Chaos Mother... she gave me a gift.  A sacred gift!  One I must be w-worthy of!  It's one thing to blow a butterfly off your nose…"  The hedgehog huffed and looked away, voice trembling as tears welled in his eyes.  "Quite another to smash it.  I will NOT kill, Espio.  I don't care how wicked they are!"

       "Hey-- hey now," calmed Knuckles, stepping in front of the upset hedgehog.  He placed a hand on Silver's chest, patting gently.  "C'mon.  Look at me."  Silver's damp gold eyes looked up and searched the echidna's.  "It's all right, kiddo.  What you did, you did for us.  And I'm grateful.  We're not out for blood, I get you.  But those mutts don't feel the same way, you know?  They needed some sense knocked into 'em.  You showed courage, but also restraint.  I'm very proud of you."  Silver nodded and sniffed, wiping a tear and touching foreheads with the echidna, who smiled and clapped his shoulder.  "Let's be on our way."

       Tails took the hedgehog's hand and squeezed.  "You're one of the good guys, Silver.  I don't like hurting people either."  The hedgehog smiled softly and squeezed back with a nod.

       "Please… forgive me, my friend," bowed Espio humbly, the blushing lizard's tail coiled tight as he clasped his hands together.  "I'm truly sorry, Silver.  I spoke without thinking."

       "Haven't we all?" smiled Silver, closing his eyes as he and the ninja hugged tight.  

       "I… I owe you an apology too, Tails," nodded Espio, taking the fox's other hand.  "Several, really.  The orders.  Someone--"

       "Guys!  Later," interrupted Knuckles, tilting his head and listening.  Rumbling plumes of dust rose from the west as  thunderheads began to blot out the setting sun.  "Looks like more bad guys.  And the ones Silver took surfing don't look too happy either."  He waved everyone on.  "Let's go!"

       Jackals worked feverishly to untangle themselves and their scraped and jumbled comrades before resuming the pursuit, albeit far more cautiously.  Vengeful howls arose behind the Resistance as they scrambled out of the valley and crested the ridge leading to the landers.  All was strangely peaceful in the encroaching dusk.  Dormant cones and vents ringed the arid plateau like ancient sentinels.  Some wore cloaks of ash, cinder or greenery; others brooded in black basalt.  Birds chirped and flitted amongst the scattered shrubs and weathered trees, the vanishing sun briefly brightening their bony trunks.  As the air grew damp and cool, more thunderheads teased rain far to the south, their dusty orange and purple-pink anvils reaching for the emerging stars.  But there was no time to admire the panorama.  Crouched low, the fighters sprinted through dried grasses towards the landers as Knuckles and his pilots exchanged hushed rendezvous plans.  It was then they heard the voice.

       "Leaving so soon?" it boomed, freezing everyone in place.  Smooth, deep and inflected with a metallic hum, it sent chills down the spines of all who recognized it.  "It's rude to depart without greeting your host."

       "Infinite!" yelled Tails, pointing at dark shape in the sky.  It descended amongst the clouds, lower and lower until the unmistakable figure appeared: sinewy limbs folded over his chest like mummy's; a long, bushy-tipped tail; long, flowing hair and a sinister crimson light that emanated from the left eye of a dark metal mask.  A tingling aura of dread seemed to descend with the jackal, his white locks wafting as he hung between heaven and earth--and between the Resistance and their escape.  Opening his arms as if in greeting, he revealed a bright pinkish-purple glow within his upper chest.  Growing brighter, it merged with that of his blood-red gaze, expanding until his entire body was enveloped in layers of humming magenta malevolence.  To the battered and regrouping pursuers, he cut a welcome sight, stirring them to chants and cheers as they rushed to crest the ridge.  Even those whom the wave had waylaid answered from below, howling support as medics worked to clean and bandage them.  Signalling to hold position, Knuckles glared skyward with the others, none too pleased.

       "I was not expecting so many of you.  How lovely," nodded Infinite, his voice echoing over the old lava flows.  He extended his long fingers, wiggling them slowly as forklets of reddish-purple lightning danced about his claws.  "And you've given my squad quite the drubbing, despite being so pitifully outnumbered.  Perhaps the Resistance is not as worthless as I remember..."

       "Come down here and find out for yourself," called Espio, the ninja stowing his shuriken as he and the others took fighting stances.  "We'll see who's worthless in a fight!"

       "A charming offer, ninja," chuckled the jackal, extending an arm as his aura intensified.  Curling his claws, he directed his hand at the chameleon.  "Here is my counteroffer."  A massive, blinding bolt of purplish-crimson lightning shot from his hand.  It barely missed the ninja, who dove away as a six foot crater exploded from the desert beneath his feet.  Thunder clapped as a second bolt blew apart a nearby tree some had crept to for cover, pulverizing its gnarled trunk and sending fighters sprawling in the dirt.  Smoldering shrapnel showered down as the valley rumbled.  Bowing as if conducting an orchestra, the jackal hurled a third strike in front of Knuckles, Silver and Tails.  As they hit the deck, the quick-thinking hedgehog telekinetically deflected most of the raining rocks and debris, but the strike was ear-splitting and choked the air with dust and ash.

       "Son of a bitch!" coughed Knuckles, shielding he and Tails' heads as rock clattered all around.  "Guess he—cough!—doesn't want to negotiate.  Silver!  Get the mask!  Or at least knock him down so we can rush him!"

       "On it!" gritted Silver, eyes tearing in the miasma as he took a deep breath and concentrated.  Palms aglow once more, he squinted and focused on their assailant's mask, preparing to yank it off, but the sinister crimson eye suddenly shifted his direction.  Extending gnarled fingers, the jackal blasted down a different bolt, shadowy and black with winking ruby embers.  It struck Silver in the chest, dousing his glow and throwing his crackling body back against a low outcropping.  Groaning in the dust as his eyes opened, he blurrily saw the others running to his aid as the jackal hovered beyond, arms folded in a show of indifference.  Getting blown off his feet was one thing.  It hurt, but no more than it had in other battles.  It was the other pain that left him speechless and gasping.  Writhing eels of freezing, electrified blackness flooded his chest, twisting and thrashing through his body and limbs with mindless predatory glee.  Panic and paralysis followed in their wake; an ordinary victim would have succumbed in seconds.  But the youthful telekinetic fighter was anything but ordinary.  He resisted from within, summoning deep reserves of energy.  Like magnets clapping together, the hedgehog's heart and mind linked as one, passing dense, warming, purifying waves through himself, one after the other until the phantom energy was squeezed out like a venom.  Anxious but amazed, Tails and others knelt at his side, rubbing his chest ruff and arms, but the determined hedgehog waved them off as he grunted and slowly levitated himself to his feet.  He growled at Infinite, clenching his fists as his light blue glow burst back to life with a vengeance.  "Your energy is vile… sick… corrupted!  I won't let you hurt others with it!  I WILL bring you down!!"  Quills levitating as his glow grew, he weaved his hands in a fast, luminous figure eight, crouching and grunting as a nearby boulder the size of a bathtub suddenly vaulted skyward, trailing ancient dust as it tumbled up at the jackal.  

       "How childish," smirked Infinite, fingers to cheek.  He gracefully levitated out of harm's way, but the straining hedgehog adjusted the trajectory at the last possible moment, failing to score a direct hit but still bashing the jackal's shoulder, punching him sideways and nearly dislodging the mask.  Most could hear the jackal's muffled rage as he clutched his arm and screamed at the spinning mass as it sailed upwards.  The glow in his chest went incandescent as he raised his arms and shot the rock with a blinding, two-handed crimson beam.  Far more intense than the lightning, it instantly vaporized its target into thousands of molten bits that trailed orange and red across the sky like a massive firework.  They rained down on friend and foe alike, filling the ridge and the valley below with shrieks and hollers.  Clumps of dry vegetation briefly smoldered, then burst into flame.  Fighters scrambled to peel off burning gear or slap embers off themselves and others.  Winded and coughing into his arm, Silver shook his head at the hellish panorama.  "No… no!"

       "Come on, we can still help!" choked Tails, eyes stinging as he quickly slapped burning bits from them both and grabbed the hedgehog's hand.  Smoky and smudged, they joined Knuckles and Espio aiding others to their feet and checking for injuries as all kept a wary eye on the menace laughing in the sky.

       "Ahhh… invigorating!" rejoiced Infinite, hands to the heavens as he hovered closer to Silver and pointed, his claws sparking anew.  "Your valor impresses, silver one.  Futile though it is.  But for the sake of your friends, I suggest you keep your bag of telekinetic tricks shut."  Slashing the air, his arm blasted a bolt behind himself and through the windshield of the nearest lander, the deafening explosion pulverizing the hapless vehicle into fiery flying shreds as all ducked or dove.  Pilots got up first, rushing in to kick burning wreckage away from the remaining landers, stomping fires and grabbing onboard extinguishers.  The jackal crossed his arms and watched, chuckling at his handiwork.  "Now that the fireworks are concluded, we can get down to business."  Claws unfurling, he suddenly descended, shoes thumping to earth inside a ring of ash.  Troops backed away as the jackal sauntered up to the echidna, who held his ground.  "Ah, Commander Knuckles… the unmistakable pile of scowling red meat."

       "All the better to choke you with," glowered the echidna, fists clenched and shoulders heaving.  The others stood close, their untrusting glares locked on the enemy.  "Whatever you got to say, say it fast, fucker.  You don't scare me in the least."

       "Come now, at least be civil," mused the jackal, contemplating his hand as he summoned a fist-sized ball of phantom energy.  "I could have easily demolished your little band by now, saving you four for last.  Like a sweet dessert!  But I have not come to destroy."

       "Pfft!  Forgive us for assuming otherwise," guffawed Espio, hand on the hilt of his ninjatō as smoke billowed in all directions.

       "Spare me your tongue, reptile," spat Infinite, tilting his head as he twirled the glowing sphere over his fingers.  "I am simply here... to collect something."

       "A four way beating?" peered Silver over his fists.  

       "How about another banishment?" frowned Tails, mirroring Silver.

       "Mmm… neither," smirked Infinite, passing the orb between his hands.  "Though banishment did do me wonders, I confess.  You see, null space is harsh.  And very unforgiving.  Much like this rift, many who enter fail to return.  The endless gloom… the crushing loneliness… killing for every scrap of food, every lap of moisture… nights of sleepless dread, listening to void beasts cackle and slither, sniffing about for you, a mere piece of meat to be ripped and swallowed.  I outwitted… and exterminated them.  In time, I grew far stronger than when I entered, but the world I'd beaten was still just a prison.  Without a phantom ruby, the gateway to this world--the world I was meant to conquer--remained forever shut.  Imagine my surprise, then, when someone appeared from the mists…  and gave me this," he grinned, patting the glow on his chest.

       "How thoughtful," scowled the Echidna, tightening his fists.  "Who was it?"

       "I wish I knew," he shrugged, fingers swirling the orb like a glass of dark wine.  "Apparently, I've a secret benefactor.  One who approves of my destiny.  My spies tried to find out, but without success.  They did learn, though, that you lot think you have all the rubies.  Even the synthetic ones Eggman was developing," he snickered, shaking his head.  "Such adorable optimism."

       "You're not getting your hands on them," glared Espio, taking a step closer.  "That is a promise."

       "I have all the ones you fools don't!" hissed the jackal, pointing a claw as the orb brightened and quaked.  "And the rest shall follow, as sure as the horn on your smug little face, NINJA!"  Huffing and calming himself, he waved his hand.  "But that... will wait.  The fool Eggman cracked after Sonic cheated his victory from me.  I could care less about them now, but I need to finish certain… items Eggman had in his possession.  I have the plans and parts.  Now all I need is Eggman's replacement."  The jackal fixed his eye on the fox.  "Hello, Tails."  

       "W-what!?" gasped the fox, slowly shaking his head as the jackal stepped closer.  Knuckles, Espio and Silver glowered, closing protectively around him.

       Laughing at the fox's surprise, the jackal nodded slowly and squeezed the energy ball nearly to bursting.  "Oh, I am looking forward to having you, my ingenious friend.  I'm a great fan of your work, as are my spies!  You'll be at my side, day and night, giving me your… services.  And you, ninja.  Since you are so eager to get under my skin, you too shall surrender.  The squadmates you attacked have much to discuss with you."  The jackal laughed, drawing a line across his throat as the nonplussed lizard unsheathed more of his ninjatō.  "Mmmmm… I'll take your snipers as well, Commander.  The two wolves, cowering in the crevices like fleas on a mongrel."  Clutching their rifles in their rocky redoubts, Whisper and Buddy growled as their hackles raised.  "I've every faith in your abilities, Tails," he smirked at the appalled fox, "but I feel you will do your best work knowing others will suffer terribly if you don't."

       "If it's hostages you want, take me," glared Silver, stepping forward.  "Leave the others."

       "Ah!  More brainless-- I mean, boundless bravery," scowled the jackal, bursting the ball in his fist.  A moment later, it rekindled in the other hand.  "Tell me, silver one.  Can you finish the weapons for my army?  What about Sonic?  Or the putrid Shadow?  He is good at firing weapons, surely he can build them as well!  Or perhaps that pink girl, the one who runs your pitiful base!?  No!?  The last thing I need is a prison camp filled with rebellious hedgehog dimwits!  What I need... is this fox."  Raising his hand, he watched the luminescent bubble roll over the back of his fingers.  "I suppose I got good intel out of Scourge, that green degenerate you paid to track me down.  Nothing like Tails possesses, but useful enough to barter his life.  My guards adored him.  Cards, dice, boxing, tattoos, buggery… quite the morale boost."

       "So that's why he went dark," muttered Knuckles, shaking his head.  "Great story, Mask-o the Clown.  But I'm afraid you're gonna go away empty-handed, unless you count my boot up your ass."

       "Insolent fools!" hissed Infinite, the ball suddenly flaming larger as his aura grew fiery and dark, crackling as he advanced on the others, who stepped back and shielded their eyes.  "GO ON!  Have swing at me, you colossal stack of brainless MEAT!  Signal your snipers!  Have your troops open fire!  Let your telekinetic pretty boy toss more RUBBISH at me!  DO IT!  That way I'll know EXACTLY whom to incinerate FIRST!"

       "Hold… hold your fire, guys," signaled Knuckles, glowering with a sigh.  "Can't hit the baby inside his bubble anyway."

       "At LAST, some reason!  Will wonders never CEASE!?" spat Infinite, waving over the jackals entering the perimeter.  "You may very well have just spared your own lives, echidna.  But your intransigence will cost you more hostages.  There--that trio of G.U.N. vermin—they will do nicely," he pointed, singling out Valdis and two of the fox's comrades, a long haired purple hedgehog and a pink tattooed rabbit girl.  The black-vested trio glanced at each other nervously as the jackal slowly rose back into the air.  "You have wasted enough of my time.  No doubt you've called in reinforcements to come and bore me to death."  Voice booming once more, he pointed the unlucky bunch towards his squad.  "You seven!  Tails, ninja, snipers, G.U.N. lackeys… go!  Anyone who interferes or tries to run away…"  He shot a fiery red beam straight down, encapsulating a tall cactus.  The hapless succulent instantly boiled and withered, popping and splitting as its spines burst into flames.  Its ‘arms' dropped off, leaving grotesque sockets that hissed with steam.  As the beam was withdrawn, what remained fell over into bubbling, gelatinous heap of goo.  Eyes were still transfixed on the macabre sight when a new voice rolled in.  

       "Prisoners!  Welcome to the Jackal Squad!  I am Captain Kohal!"  Fit and fairly tall, the slate-gray jackal had a barreled chest and steely, ice-blue eyes.  Bushy white hair matched the thick chest ruff protruding from a black leather vest adorned with a modest accumulation of pins and medals.  A jeweled, oiled-black machete hung at his side, complimenting his shiny old school combat boots, a veteran amongst rabble.  Flanked by a pair of young lieutenants, he confidently called through cupped hand as dozens of other jackals closed in behind.  "Drop all weapons!  Remove all clothing and shoes... and march towards me with your hands UP!"

       "They'll calm down once you're shackled," gloated Infinite, turning to the others and charging his hands.  "The rest of you--board your vehicles and flee!  I'm feeling generous.  You have sixty seconds."

       "Generous?  You gutless cur!" shouted Espio through the steam and smoke as Whisper, Buddy and the G.U.N. trio began to dejectedly shed their gear.  "You've no real power!  Some might believe your null space nonsense, but I know you're nothing without that glowing bauble!" he spat, unsheathing his blade and pointing it at his nemesis, who folded his arms and glared.  "You lured me… tricked me into betraying my friends!  Mark my words, dog.  Dishonoring a ninja carries a steep price.  And sooner or later… EEEEYYAAH!"  The ninja's glinting blade sliced a perfect horizontal arc nearly all the way around his poised body, neatly decapitating a small tree to his side.  As onlookers blinked in mute surprise, the canopy slid down, then crashed aside, sending leaves and flower petals fluttering elegantly around the motionless lizard.  He then thrust his blade towards his foe.  "You shall pay."

       "Yeah, don't go anywhere, guys!" yelled Tails, stepping before the others, fists at his sides as his namesakes twitched.  He stood below the jackal and pointed.  "I'm the one you really want, huh?  Well, guess what!  All your stupid plans and threats and schemes don't mean anything without me!  Nobody knows those prototypes better," he nodded, thumbing his chest.  "The plans, the materials, the components, the phantom drives, all the configurations... nobody, not even Eggman!  My team and I are WAY past where you guys were.  And once we've learned all we can, we're gonna destroy every last piece!  And then lock the phantom rubies away so jerks like you can't--"

       "I grow weary of this," sighed Infinite, his crimson eyehole flaring.  Punching his glowing chest, the jackal suddenly winked from view, leaving only a few red sparks wafting in his place.  Seconds later, as Tails and others apprehensively glanced around, he materialized face-to-face with the fox, shoes crunching the gritty ground as grabbed the wide-eyed vulpine's throat and lifted.  Tails instinctively grabbed his arm with both hands and tried to struggle free, but as Knuckles, Silver and Espio charged in, the pair vanished.

       "What the-- NO!" roared Knuckles, casting about frantically before punching the ground, sending dust and small rocks flying.  "Give him back, you fucking mutt!"  More agonizing moments passed as the echidna and others scanned the sky or towards Captain Kohal, who seemed equally perplexed.  The echidna's patience had ended.  "Resistance!  If that dung-eating dingo doesn't bring Tails back in TEN seconds, you will ALL open fire, starting with the Captain here!" he bellowed, pointing at Captain Kohal.  With their leader suddenly gone and the echidna enraged, the jackals' blood drained from their faces as weapons of every sort clicked, strained or powered up and swung towards them in unison.  "TEN!  NINE!  EIGHT!  SEVEN!"

       "Wait!  No!" pleaded Kohal, hands up as most of his contingent but for the two lieutenants began to scatter, running for cover, distance or both.  "Hold your fire!  I--I don't know where they are!"

       "You better find out!" commanded Knuckles, pointing at his face.  "SIX!  FIVE!  FOUR!"

       "He always comes back to us, I swear!" sweated Kohal, arms going higher as his deserting comrades ran at top speed back down to the valley, some tossing their weapons as they fled.  "I've no way to contact him in… in that… nulled space, whatever it's called!  Please!  Give me more time!"

       "Here's two seconds," offered Knuckles, flipping double birds.  "SIX!  FIVE!  FOUR! THREE!"

       "Gah!  I-- I surrender!  WE surrender!" begged the jackal, ears flat as he fell to his knees.  Copying their leader, his terrified lieutenants followed suit and clung to him.  "He wouldn't hurt your friend, Commander!  The fox is much too valuable, it's all he talked about!  P-please!" he quivered, on the verge of tears.  "Spare my niece and nephew at least!"

       The echidna's great shoulders trembled with rage, then slumped.  "Two," he whispered to himself, shaking his head and rubbing the bridge of his nose.  Falling silent, he turned and punched an outcropping, sending huge cracks rumbling down into its rocky depths.  Espio patted the echidna's back as he took deep breaths with his eyes closed.  "Just give a minute."

       "Stand down, everyone," calmed the ninja, the trembling trio of abandoned jackals heaving a sigh of relief as weapons lowered and powered down.  "We'll need to keep searching."

       "No!  Wait!  They're still here!" shouted Silver, fingers to the side of his head as his other hand glowed skyward.  "The ruby is… faltering?  I feel it, but… I shouldn't.  Not if it's in null space."  He shook his head and squinted.  "Why is it doing that?"

       Gazing skyward as she put her coat back on, Whisper gasped softly and grabbed Buddy's wrist, tugging and pointing.  The red wolf adjusted his glasses and shouted excitedly.  "Hey, you're right!  Everyone, look!"  

       A crimson glow emerged against the darkening sky, then flashed bright as the pair suddenly rematerialized hundreds of feet above, the jackal giving an anguished yelp heard by those on the ground.  They could make out few details, but all could see that wherever the jackal had hoped to strongarm the fox, the two-tailed hero was having none of it.  Namesakes whirring as he snarled, Tails grappled and pushed against the jackal, who now bore impressive scratch and bite marks on his arms, ears and chest.  A thin line of blood flowed from under his mask where he'd been headbutted.  Preventing the fox's escape meant trying to hold onto an enraged propeller, one with fists.  Fighters below watched as freshly uprooted clumps of black and white jackal fur drifted down from the sky.  Taken aback by the young engineer's ferocity, the jackal grabbed his unruly orange bangs and twisted, hoping to wrest control.  Tails growled and grunted, legs kicking as his eyes teared up from the pain, which rose as phantom energy crept in like a toxin.  As Silver had felt before him, the strange force was like a frigid, shocking entity, digging into his brain like poisonous migraine paralyzing its way to submission.  Gnashing his teeth as adrenaline flowed, the fox pried at the fist, but as strong as he was, the ruby-enhanced jackal was stronger.  Thinking fast as his face numbed and vision blackened, the fox gripped his abductor's arm as tight as possible, using it for leverage as he swung in and stomped the jackal's sizable bulge as hard as he could.

       "Grrrffffhrrraaaaaww!"  The shocked canine's crimson eye went wide as his aura flickered.  Stamina drained as deep pain began curdling his body.  He struggled to breathe but kept his iron grip, hoping to finish the fox's incapacitation as he waited for the worst of the pain to pass.  It was a terrible miscalculation.  Swinging back and revving his tails, the fox landed a second, two-footed stomp on the very same spot.  A deep, nauseous groan oozed from the jackal as his grip finally failed.  He curled inward, cradling his tenderized jewels.  "You… will suffer for that," he wheezed, slinking slowly.

       "Here's my counteroffer!"  Rearing back, Tails zeroed in on the jackal foot first, using the glowing ruby as a target.  The flying kick landed with a satisfying thud, punching the jackal's chest dead-on and sending him backwards with a groan.  As the hideous inky pain dissipated from his head, the panting fox wiped away tears and clenched his fists, scowling at his would-be abductor.  "Time to unmask you, loser," he muttered to himself, but as he prepared to lunge, he noticed a tiny red light flashing on his wrist communicator and paused.  As the sputtering jackal steadied himself and shook his head, the fox grinned snarkily, turning tails and smacking his perky orange rump at the foe.  "Enjoy the view!  But I wouldn't stick around if I was you."  The fox then dove away at top speed.

       "Miserable freak!" gnashed Infinite, tears leaking below his mask as he clutched his chest and crotch, the ruby flaring bright.  Shaking off the pain, he aimed his quivering claws at the diving vulpine, his arm crackling and hissing with magenta barbs as the closing thunderstorms flared and rumbled.  "This ought to end your stupidity, make you easier to transport..."  An intense white flash cracked like shotgun, illuminating the shocked faces below.

       A crushing blow came from behind.  The impact burst the air from the jackal's lungs, blurred his vision and rattled his teeth.  He felt himself tumbling head over heels through blackness before slowing, caught from behind in arms that were immensely strong.  One hooked his neck as the other ripped off his mask, its blood red eye dimming as it plummeted to the rocks below.  As his aura faded, the grasping jackal blearily glimpsed a white glove snatch his wrist and yank it behind his back.  "GRAAGH!" he growled, nose flaring as he clawed at the chokehold.  "I warned you, silver one!  Now I'll KILL you!"  

       "Wrong hedgehog," came the reply into his ear, the tackler's voice low and confident as he wrestled the pair to a halt high above the crowd.  "But I'm proud he managed to annoy you."

       "Shhhadow…"  The name dripped from the jackal's snarled lip with venomous contempt.  Rage rekindled his fit frame.  Without the mask to concentrate it, the phantom energy flooded the hedgehog instead.  Boiling ropes of gut-wrenching, freezing-yet-searing pain seeped into his body, cramping and stunning as they went.  Captor found himself captive, grimacing from the unexpected anguish as he was pinned like a magnet.  Sinking claws into his foe's forearm, the reenergized jackal rocketed hundreds of feet higher into the rumbling, lightning-lit sky.  Struggling against the numbing, nauseating pain, Shadow fired his shoes at max, slowing their dizzying ascent, but as the air grew cold and damp, the jackal stopped on his own, clenching his fists and concentrating with all his might.  Like flak reaching its apex, the canine exploded a brilliant, ear-splitting burst of raw energy from his chest, blowing the pair apart head over heels.  The bone-crunching wallop freed the hedgehog, groaning and coughing as stinging phantom tendrils dissipated down his limbs.  The smoldering duo gasped as they drifted, each struggling just to stay aloft.

       "As I thought," chuckled Shadow hoarsely, brushing off his chest and righting himself.  He wiped his eye and shook out his quills.  "The ruby you carry... is flawed.  Still highly potent.  But without the mask…"  He grinned and punched his palm.  "Prepare yourself."  Drawing back his fist, the obsidian fighter rocketed at the dazed, coughing jackal, who managed to lift a crackling hand.  It hummed with ominous force, but the aura that had stopped so many was now just a reddish haze.  Shooting right through it, the black and red blur landed a ferocious right hook.  Spittle and snot burst from the jackal's contorted face as the energy shot from his flailing hands, sending ruby bolts of lightning skyward and into the desert.  Whipping around as thunder cracked, the hedgehog grappled again from behind, but the staggered jackal managed to slip a hand between their struggling torsos and twist the hedgehog's crotch.

       The hedgehog's guttural growl filled Infinite's ears.  "Release me!" croaked the jackal, gasping for air and twisting harder.  He was answered by a punch to the kidney that broke both males' grips.  Clutching their respective pains, the panting, red-faced warriors turned and sized each other up through the swirling, stormy skies.  Thrilled by Tails' escape and Shadow appearing quite literally out of nowhere, Knuckles and the others now watched with measure of dread as droplets began falling.  Everyone knew at least some the dark figures' story.  The depths of their enmity.  How bitter and personal it was.  How eager one might be to destroy the other--and perhaps any who got in the way.  The jackals probing the perimeter to rescue their three comrades quickly abandoned the area.  Knuckles and his crew were thinking much the same.

       "Resistance!" called Knuckles, eyeing the newest crater, "take cover!  This is gonna get ugly!"  Espio, Silver and Tails set about helping others towards a low, rocky ridge adjacent to the landers while the echidna turned to the three confused jackals.  "Hey.  You guys all right?"  He blushed as he rubbed the back of his neck.  "Um, before you answer, I uh…  we'd never attack unarmed folks."  He wiped his brow, choosing words carefully as the trio listened anxiously.  "Or someone surrendering.  Hell, you two of you don't even look old enough to be fighting," he nodded at the lieutenants, who nervously clutched their uncle's arms.  "Anyways, that's not how we roll."

       "I'm glad to hear it, Commander Knuckles," chuckled Kohal nervously, looking down and brushing off his thighs.  "Very convincing, though.  I think I pissed myself."  

       "You know who I am?" puzzled the echidna, cocking an eye.

       "We all do," nodded Kohal, his cohorts following suit.  Despite his predicament, the captain projected dignity and calm; his eyes were soft and conciliatory.  As the two younger jackals watched, he reached for his machete, taking hold of the blade and offering the handle to Knuckles.  "Your mettle and fearlessness are respected in my squad, even in these unfortunate times.  My family are honorable too, Commander.  This is yours now."

       "Nah," shrugged Knuckles, shaking his head.  "Keep it… Captain.  I like a family man, your word is good enough."  The jackal and  lieutenants blinked in disbelief.  They nearly stumbled to stand, each bowing gratefully to the echidna, wagging and clasping his hands.  "Hey, what's this, now?" he chuckled, the relieved young canines reminding him much of his rookies back at base.  "We need to get out of here."

       "I-Infinite says you guys destroy prisoners, Commander Nickles," offered Kohal's first lieutenant, a lanky slate and white youth in plain leather hiking boots, a camouflage vest and crimson beret perched atop moppy white hair.  Half a head shorter than his uncle, he had a spiked wooden club in a leather carrying strap on his back.  "Um… and if he finds out we surrendered on him..."  The jackals all glanced at each other anxiously.  "Well, let's just say we're not welcome back.  Not for a while, anyways."

       "A while?  That's a year's banishment, Kael!" frowned the second lieutenant, nervously rubbing the handle of a curved dagger sheathed at her side.  Colored like her sibling, she was shorter still but had a bushy white mohawk that made up much of the difference.  Dressed in an olive green tank top, black hikers and dark gloves that all seemed a size too big, she looked hopefully up at Knuckles with bright gold eyes.  "But you guys are trying to catch cousin Infinite.  Right?"

       "Cousin?  Well yeah, we are, if he doesn't take Shadow out and blow us all up," grumbled Knuckles, rolling his eyes.  "Listen, uh… what was your name, kid?"

       "It's Korba!" she beamed, proudly tossing back her bushy stripe.

       "Well Korba, your cousin's a liar," continued Knuckles, hunkering down.  "We don't hurt prisoners, ever.  Okay?  We don't even make 'em break up rocks anymore, which is a great workout by the way.  Anyways, I'm putting you three in my custody.  Not like prisoners really, but for your own safety you gotta stick with me.  I don't want Infinite hurting you guys either, or my own folks if they get confused."  The echidna stood face to face with Kohal and offered his fist.  "Deal?"

       "Deal," nodded Kohal, bumping with resolute smile.  "Thank you."

       "Me too!" bumped Kael.  "Thank you, Commander Nickles."

       "It's Knuckles.  Knuckles," chuckled the echidna, bumping back.  "You know, like… knuckles?"

       "Me!  I want to bump with Nick--er--Knuckles too!" nodded Korba, squeezing in and bumping as well.  Massive, sky-wide wraiths of both ruby and regular lightning fanned out across the sky, the ungodly thunderclap startling all as still-burning fires began to hiss under droplets of rain.  "Holy shit!  Did cousin Infinite do that!?"

       "Sis!  Language!" hushed Kael, the males grabbing her hands as the echidna pointed the way.

       "Go, go, go!" shooed Knuckles, running behind the rest.  

       The skies rumbled long and hard as the two fighters' blows and counterstrikes intensified.  The obsidian hedgehog's crossed fists spared his head from a ferocious flying kick, the latest of many, but a spinning follow-up connected at last, bashing his jaw and cutting his lip.  "Ah!  The ultimate one bleeeeeds," jeered the jackal, pointing at the gash.  He levitated a few crimson droplets from his opponent's cheek to his fingertips and tasted.  "Mmmph… your destruction begins," he grinned, fangs tinted red as he recharged his fists and feet for a fresh assault.  "I shall savor it!"

       "Glad you like how I taste," smirked the hedgehog, panting as he calmly wiped his chin on the back of his glove and took a defensive stance.  "You'll be getting a lot more of me soon.  On your knees… in a collar and leash."

       "Delusional," spat the jackal, his glee evaporating as his limbs flared brighter.  "The second you are gone, hedgehog, this world is mine.  Your pathetic friends, your loves, your pointless secrets and ambitions… all shall join you in oblivion!"

       "Sorry, my friends and I aren't going anywhere," laughed the hedgehog, shaking his head as he adjusted his bloodstained glove.  "And a feral cur like you clearly needs a strong, firm master to tame him.  I am that master."

       "DON'T use that word with me, you miserable, withered CUNT!" barked the jackal, eyes wide and chest puffing with wrath as the fuzzy red glow nearly obscured his body.  His sizable organ twitched to life as well, an inopportune side effect both males noticed at once.  Blushing hotly, the jackal clapped a hand over the unwanted intrusion as the hedgehog grinned confidently behind raised fists.  "I… am no one's PET!"

       "Your body begs to differ," nodded Shadow, eyes brightening as he sensed opportunity.  "It could be just nerves, knowing I could dominate you at will.  Yesssss.  But I know you, Infinite.  And I know your type.  You'll deny it to hell and back, but your lust for power masks a deep-seated craving for attention.  You yearn for affection.  Discipline.  A guiding hand.  A loving touch.  All the things you've wanted, but never had…"

       The jackal seemed aghast.  "What are you… talking about!?"

       "Don't deny it, boy," peered Shadow, adjusting his glove.  "You were always alone.  Even with your squad, even before your banishment.  I admit, I was cruel then.  Far more than was necessary to stop you.  But I have changed, and you no longer need to be the frightened stray you've become.  Surrender, pet.  As master, I will redeem you."

       "Fuh--  Faggot!" gnashed the incensed jackal, hackles rising as gold and blue eyes grew bloodshot with building rage.  "How dare you patronize me!  Your end will be excr--"

       "Your threats are empty," interrupted the hedgehog, eyes narrowing to steely slits as he subtly groped himself.  "I see the fear in your eyes, the anger.  You are right to be upset with me.  But you're no more capable of destroying me than a worm," he rumbled, hovering slowly closer as the jackal backed away.  "You... will obey my every command.  But fear not... for I am a merciful master.  I will give you the life, the love, the purpose you've never had.  You'll be weak no longer…"

       "SILENCE!" screeched the jackal hoarsely, spittle flying, shaking his head as his fists clenched and trembled above a growing, rage-fueled erection.  "Stop saying those things!!

       "Submit," pressed the hedgehog, his outline glowing with a faint golden hue.  "Your soul…  it begs, it pleads for love to nourish it... with every fiber of its being… but you starve it, endlessly.  Why?" he queried, arms open and honest.

       "Get BACK!" hollered Infinite, drifting backwards as he clawed his chest with one hand and tried to cover his veiny, upturned rod with the other.  Quills wafting angelically, the advancing hedgehog gently grasped and waved his own larger assets, pendulous, dark and thick.  The jackal's throat squeaked as his softly glowing opponent came face to face.  Frozen by equal parts fascination and fear, he shook his head, unable to speak, glancing downward as he panted through clenched teeth.

       "Do you like it, my pet?" murred Shadow confidently as their knees and bulges touched.  "Ah, yesss… you got a good feel for it earlier, didn't you?  Once you open to me, lay bare your heart… then it shall be yours.  You will come running for it every chance you get.  Kneeling, wagging, smiling up at me… those lovely two-tone eyes meeting mine as you suckle…"  He reached up and gently stroked the jackal's soft locks.  "Soon, Master will have you on all fours… howling my name as I breed you, my pretty little bitch."

       "RRRAAAAAGGGHHH!"

       The incendiary jackal's  fist shot straight for Shadow's eyes.  His ploy having worked, the agile hedgehog weaved gracefully aside, evading the blow by a quill's breadth as the wind brushed his face like a passing bullet.  Elegantly he wheeled about, observing his enraged opponent as if in slow motion.  He could not help but admire the fierce canine's fit form and endowments for the fleeting moments they were in view, engorged and swaying as their owner lunged; a specimen both attractive and dangerous, poised in combat like an ancient statue.  But the reverie had to end for now.  Inhibitor rings flashing faintly, he landed a single calculated punch to the gut and watched as the shockwave reverberated through the jackal's body and crumpled it like a ragdoll.  The fighters' auras winked out.  Eyes wide and unable to inhale, the stunned jackal's arms flailed as he pitched headlong into freefall, down towards the same rocks that had claimed his mask.  The hedgehog dove after him, head first and fast as a falcon.  With precise thrusts, he snatched the jackal midair a few stories above the unforgiving basalt.  Groaning softly, the limp jackal revived, clinging and coughing in the hedgehog's embrace.  Taking no chances, his captor yanked the jackal's white scarf from his neck and tore it, revealing a large phantom ruby.  "You won't be needing this," panted Shadow.  Turning the lightly flawed but mesmerizing gem in his fingers, his face glowed side by side with that of his winded captive as the hedgehog spoke into his glove.  "Silver!  Catch."  Infinite watched helplessly as Shadow discarded the ruby like a wormy apple before using his tattered scarf to tie his hands behind his back.  

       "Is that--  wow!  You got it!" crackled Silver's response.  Sparkling even in evening's gloom, the plummeting ruby suddenly veered to the hedgehog's glowing, outstretched hand.  Catching and cradling it, he peered deep into its facets, marveling at the malevolent swirls within.  Others looked on, most excitedly, some with dread.  "Item secure.  Way to go, Shadow!"

       "Thanks," replied the hedgehog, testing the jackal's binds, "get it out of here as soon as you can.  You know where.  I'll be down with our other prize shortly."  Seeing their dreaded enemy subdued, Resistance and G.U.N. fighters began to cheer, clap and high five, pumping and bumping many a fist.  By contrast, their jackal counterparts watching from the valley floor stood in silent, blinking shock.  A few cast daggers with their eyes towards Kohal and his lieutenants, who stood, smiling and relieved with the victors.  Bit by bit, pockets of jackals dejectedly mounted motorcycles, old offroad vehicles, hoverboards and ATVs before revving off into the drizzly, darkening distance.  "Hmph.  Your squad seems content to desert you," observed Shadow, patting the jackal's firm rump and giving it a good squeeze.  "Good thing you have me to look after you now."

       "D-dolt," coughed Infinite, the corners of his mouth flecked with spittle as he shook his head.  "They leave to avoid capture.  They know I shall return.  WITH my ruby.  Stolen by a cheater… a liar.  A degenerate, cocksucking thief..."

       "The term you're looking for is master," smirked Shadow, patting the the jackal down with his bulge pressed safely out of reach beneath the other male's rump.  As the victor checked nooks and crannies, the vanquished squirmed and scowled, tugging at his bonds.  "But it's your first day, so I'll give it a pass.  Your life is about to change dramatically, my pet."

       "Stop calling me that!  I will not submit to you, you—ah!"  The jackal gasped as a muscular hand suddenly thrust between this thighs from behind.  Firm, experienced fingers probed and groped along his crevice and taint and behind his balls before slipping to the front.  "Gah!  W-what are you looking for!?  You've already taken my ruby, stop feeling me up like a common whore!"
      
       "Would you rather I let you plummet?" glared the hedgehog.  "It would be just like you to conceal a second ruby…  and the height of idiocy to not check for it.  Hold still," he grumbled, sliding his hand flatly over the jackal's thighs, groin, belly and chest.  Reaching down, he unstrapped and yanked off each of the jackal's shoes, peering inside before tossing them away.

       "Hey!" blinked Infinite, toes curling coldly in his socks.  "You could have just asked me!"

       "Could I have?" smirked Shadow, patting the jackal's chest.  "No loss, they're filthy.  And they're not permitted in the detention facility anyway."  Satisfied no rude surprises lay in wait as his prisoner sulked, the hedgehog wiped his brow and began a controlled descent.  "I may as well tell you that you won't be banished again.  Clearly that approach failed you as badly as it failed us.  I've arranged to have you remanded to G.U.N. custody this time.  I will personally oversee your rehabilitation."  

       "Rehabilitation?" scoffed the jackal, cocking an eye.  "You mean press-gang me into your little harem?  Filthy old hog!  I know what you want to do to me, you were abundantly clear about it.  I'd rather be banished!"

       "I'd like to see banishment get you that hard," smirked the hedgehog, giving the jackal a teasing grope.  "But I am glad to learn we are… of a kind.  I'm not surprised, really."

       "What you did to me was cheating!  It was cheap!  And... humiliating," grumbled the jackal as they descended.  "Even if I want…  wanted those… those things… which I don't!!  You didn't ha-have to…"  His growled in frustration and clammed up.

       "Didn't have to what?" asked Shadow matter-of-factly, eyeing a suitable landing spot.  "We're still alone.  I am listening."  The jackal merely huffed, looking away and shaking his head.  Pausing their descent, Shadow turned the jackal's chin, their faces inches apart as he peered studiously into the other male's bloodshot eyes.  "You felt shame just now?  Good.  That means you actually have some.  Buried under that festering cauldron of arrogance and anger.  Catching you was the easy part.  Freeing your heart will be a challenge.  But I am not known for giving up."

       "W--what?"  The jackal blinked in disbelief.  He tried to speak, but all that came out was a flustered whine as his face grew redder.  The hedgehog smiled gently and kissed his cheek, worsening the bewilderment.  

       Circling in from above, more landers touched down by the others and began disgorging reinforcements. "Ah!  Blue butt-- er, Sonic arrives.  Just in time to greet you."

       "Sonic!?" cringed the jackal, ears clamping down as he shook his head and tucked his tail over his crotch.  "Don't… I don't want him to see me like this!  Please!  Just throw me in a cell!"

       "Nervous?  Imagine that!" laughed the hedgehog as Knuckles and the others made way,  "Did you know, that even after everything you did to him, the big blue dope was still adamant you be given another chance?  You!  And now you can't bear to look him in the eyes.  Now tell me, boy.  Who is the weak one in that equation?"  The mortified jackal huffed, averting any eye contact as they touched down in the excited crowd.
      
       "Ayyyyy, look what the hero dragged in!" cheered Knuckles as the throng greeted them.  Fighters in all directions hollered for joy or clapped each other's backs, bumping fists and high fiveing.  Stepping up, the big red commander offered a fist to Shadow, who bumped and nodded with a smile.  Knuckles clapped the fighter's shoulder and smirked at the jackal.  "Well, well, well.  Welcome to the Resistance, Infinite!  Or maybe I'll just call us the winners, hehe.  Sorry your squad can't be here too, they all decided to beat cheeks.  Except for these guys, since they're not cowards," he smiled, thumbing behind himself at Kohal, Kael and Korba.

       Infinite's eye twitched.  "Kohal..." he glowered, pulling against Shadow's hold as the captain and his lieutenants watched apprehensively from behind the echidna.  "What is this red lummox yabbering about!?  Traitors!  So help me, if you clots conspired with these fools, I'll burn--"

       "Ah, ah, ah!  Bad dog!" glared Knuckles, cupping the jackal's chin and shaking his head.  The muscular echidna locked eyes with the jackal.  "Don't.  Threaten.  Anyone.  If it was up to me, I'd have you breaking up rocks all day for a year, then banish your bitch ass all over again.  Comprende?"  Beads of sweat formed on the jackal's brow as he breathed hard through his nose, eventually nodding in the echidna's palm.  Knuckles nodded back, unknowingly patting the jackal's bruised cheek.  "Good boy."  As the jackal winced, Resistance fighters pressed in for a closer look and began to jeer, his tingling face turning red and hot.  

So that's him?  He ain't so big!  Yeah, enjoy your takedown, you fukkin' loser?  WooOOooOO!  Kick his ass!  My dad was in Death Egg Prison 'cos of you!  Can't wait to tell him you went down crying like a bitch!  Piece of shit!  Not so tough now, are ya!?  Go, ResistAAAAANCE!  Yeah, look me in eye, bitch!  Haw haw!  Naw, he's Shadow's bitch now!  Bend over, pussy-boy!  S'matter, fleabag?  You gonna cry?

       "That's enough," commanded Knuckles, slicing the air with his hand as the soft rain slowly doused the fires.  "I know you guys have made a lot of sacrifices.  Your friends, your families too.  Gave up a lot just to serve.  Some of you twice!  And for that, I am truly and deeply grateful."  The echidna thumbed towards the barefoot captive, who hung his head with ears flat.  "Infinite will answer for what he's done, I promise.  But thanks to you guys, him and his squad never did what they set out to do.  No weapons, no war.  And no hostages!  So don't let this guy own your feelings.  We're better than him, and we won!  This is OUR day!  I'm proud of it, and I'm proud of you!  Go, Resistance!"  The assembled fighters echoed the cheer over and over, rejoicing as Espio and Silver nodded and patted Knuckles and Shadow's shoulders.

       "Well said, Commander," bowed Espio, turning to Shadow and bowing again.  "Superb moves, Master."  Infinite's ear perked at the title.  He glanced apprehensively at the ninja, who glanced back with a satisfied smirk.  "I'll see you in my prison mediation class… pet."  

       "Excellent work, Shadow," smiled Silver, patting the hedgehog's back.  "Your hunch about the mask was true.  I'm sorry I couldn't take it myself."

       "You've nothing to apologize for," smiled Shadow back, petting Silver's ruff affectionately.  "But we should probably recover it, lest it fall into the wrong hands.  See if you can sense it, I can get a crew together to help if you need."  

       "Sorry I'm late!" came a winded voice from the end of the ridge.  "I told you guys to leave me some ass to kick, but nooooo, hehe.  Whoa!"  The blue hedgehog's sharp green eyes widened at the sight of the bested jackal at Shadow's side.  "So all the radio chatter was true.  Awesome!  Hey, Infinite.  Long time no see," he snickered as the blushing jackal averted eye contact.  "Man, you look rough.  Don't worry about not shaking hands, Shadow's knots are pretty good," he snickered.

       "Sonic!" cheered Tails, the blue-eyed fox practically flying into his arms as they collided in a swinging hug.  "I'm so glad to see you!"

       "Whoa-hoa!" giggled the hedgehog, catching the fox and giving him a long, affectionate kiss.  "Mmmmm-wah!  I'm glad to see you too, my fox!  Are you okay?"

       "I am now!" beamed Tails, nuzzling noses and squeezing tight.  "The whole thing was a trap!  But… looks like the jackals fell in it themselves, hehe."  The fox smiled over his shoulder at the others arriving behind the blue beau.  "Hi Rouge, hi Omega!"

       "Heya cutie," winked the buxom bat, hand to hip as she smiled with a particle gun slung over her shoulder.  A hulking crimson and black robot stood beside the bat, the imposing pair flanked by a dozen fresh-faced G.U.N. agents.  "Dang, looks like we missed out, boys.  But that just makes us early for the party," she winked, clasping hands with the others.  "Everybody okay here?"

       "I detect treatable wounds, but no casualties," nodded Omega in a crisp monotone, the robot clutching a large black minigun.  "It is most agreeable to see you safe, Mr. Prower and Mr. Espio.  It is also agreeable to see you in  custody, Mr. Infinite.  A superb result.  Though I do detect viable targets fleeing northwest.  It would be no trouble for me to neutralize--"

       "No no, Big O, but thanks," chuckled Tails, taking Sonic's hand as the hedgehog set him down.  "They won't be back anytime soon.  I'm glad you guys made it!  What happened while I was knocked out?"  

       "Attacks and skirmishes popped up right after you got shanghaied," explained Rouge, leaning against Omega.  "All day and all over, it was nuts.  Most turned out to be decoys.  But we got those boys to talk, then scoured the leads.  Eventually all roads lead here to twenty seven."  The bat nodded at Kohal, Kael and Korba.  "You got prisoners, too?  We got about forty others in the clink, we can toss them in."

       "Nah, these guys are with me," smiled Knuckles, patting Kohal's shoulder as the jackal bowed to the pleasantly surprised bat.  "Long story, but they're good.  Get 'em some food and water though please, and let's get our medics busy.  We've had a day," nodded the echidna, turning to Sonic.  "You always make me do the heavy lifting," he winked, scooping the hedgehog into a rib-squeezing hug and kissing his chest.  "But you've always got my back."

       "Ooof!  Hey, it's not like you can't handle it, big guy," grinned Sonic, hugging right back and kissing the echidna's forehead before he was set back down.  "You and Rouge were right.  Facility ten, thirteen, the airport, Palmtree district, Gem Coast… all fakeouts, spreading us out on purpose."  He turned and smiled at Shadow, walking over with with a two finger salute.  "Great work, Shads.  I knew you'd put things right."  Holding the prisoner's bound wrists, the dark hedgehog leaned over and touched foreheads with Sonic, sharing a nod and a long, knowing nuzzle before a discreet kiss.  Sonic kissed back and took a deep breath before facing the prisoner,  "So what you got in store for him?  You gonna do like we discussed?"  

       "I am," nodded Shadow, rubbing his sore chin.  "G.U.N. will take him.  Restitution, counseling, therapy… and many apologies. We can't do as we did before.  I… I think I see what you were getting at."

       "You know, it IS okay to just say I was right, Shads," snickered Sonic, patting Shadow's chest ruff.

       "However I can help," offered Kohal, rubbing his own ruff nervously as he and his lieutenants eyed the hedgehogs hopefully.  "He's not a monster.  I know he isn't."

       "How kind of you to notice, cousin," grumbled Infinite, ears flat as he shook his head.  "You pusillanimous… All of you, stop speaking of me as if I'm sick!"

       "You're saying you're not?" scowled Tails, pointing at the bruise around his neck and folding his arms.  "I can't imagine what it must be like, to be so angry and hateful and… and selfish inside!  Yeesh.  I know I shouldn't be, but I actually feel sorry for you, Infinite."

       "I saw who he is growing up," nodded Kohal to Tails, placing a hand on the fox's back.  "I miss that jackal, perhaps he is still there."  Kohal sighed, taking his charges' hands and speaking over his shoulder as they turned away.  "Best of luck, cousin.  Whatever you may think of us, we still wish the best for you.  I will be in touch whenever I am permitted."

       "Enjoy life with the enemy," glowered Infinite, his demeanor growing eerily calm.  "The squad is still mine, Kohal.  Not yours, not the Riverdwells, not the Northern Fists.  And I will remember this day."

       "Redemption is a rare and wondrous gift," grinned Espio, stepping into Infinite's view.  "Do not discard it so easily."

       "Yeah, don't fuck it up," glared Knuckles over his shoulder, helping troops lift packs and supplies.  "I'm tired of all this world's-gonna-end shit.  I just want my friends.  And my damn tunes and my damn grape soda, too.  Everyone!  Let's get back to base!  Kohal?  You guys come with me, we'll get you situated."

       "Omega--take him," nodded Shadow.  With surprising gentleness, the robot clasped the jackal's arms and faced him forwards as the hedgehog rubbed his sore hip.  "Ouch.  Rouge, you're in command.  Get our high profile ‘guest' to the quarters we set aside.  Pull in whatever help you need.  I'm heading home."

       "I'm all over it.  Go rest," nodded the bat, smiling gently and kissing Shadow's cheek.  "I know the answer, but are you sure you don't want to come and get checked out as well?  You look like ten miles of bad road."

       "I love you too," chuckled Shadow, wincing as a medic dabbed his lip.  He clasped the bat's hand and kissed it.  "I'll heal in a day or two.  See that he gets a full assessment and does not hurt himself.  Omega's good for that.  You can brief me over the secure channel.  See you next week."  The hedgehog patted the sullen jackal's chest ruff.  "Obey Rouge, pet.  She is in charge and it would be highly unwise to not follow her instruction.  Be nice to the doctors too, they are there to help.  Bite anyone and I'll bite you."

       "Is that a promise or a threat?" muttered Infinite, taking stock of the smirking bat.

       "Yes," grinned Sonic, walking up and standing nose to nose with the jackal.  "From warlord to fix-me-upper.  What a day, huh?  You'll be seeing me too, I want to see if my hunch about you was right.  You know, whenever you're not busy picking up roadside trash or serving jello at Eggman's nuthouse."

       "The preferred terminology is Maximum Security Assisted Living Center," added Omega, petting Infinite's bruised back as the jackal winced and flattened his ears.  "Mr. Infinite will be housed elsewhere to prevent collusion.  Incidentally we do require a qualified cafeteria technician now that Mr. Nack has been paroled.  Perhaps cooking would be therapeutic to you, Mr. Infinite."

       "No, robot.  I tend to burn things.  Especially my enem-- Ouch!  Mind the kidney!" yelped Infinite as the others snickered.  Omega nodded and petted elsewhere.  "Ah, blue rat.  You must really be enjoying this."

       "Yeah, pretty much," grinned Sonic, leaning in to snap a selfie with the jackal.  "You know, it's weird.  Here I thought I was gonna have all kinds of stuff to get off my chest once I finally got to see you again.  But now?  It's almost like you don't even matter."  The hedgehog slicked his quills, using his phone as a mirror.  "The last war, Eggy's empire, you locking me up… just speed bumps in my rear view mirror, pal.  Time to move on to the next gig!  In fact, I'm gonna wish you luck, Infinite.  You're gonna need it with Shads holding your leash," he chuckled, patting the glaring jackal's head.  "Come on guys, back to base!  Let's get our party on!!"


Late morning the next day, Fern Forest…

       "No more parties," groaned Shadow, stretching as he sat naked on a throne-like wicker chair in his living room, his socks and hover shoes neatly arranged by the front door.  Though filtered by mist and drizzle, the day outside was green and bright, the foliage and flowers wet and luminous through the windows.  Little curls of steam rose from the hedgehog's coffee as he sipped.  "Ahhh… superb, Espio.  Thank you.  This will chase off the noise in my head."

       "My pleasure, Master.  I hope you enjoyed yourself," smiled the chameleon, kneeling nude before the softly crackling fireplace and warming his hands.  "I've never seen you dance before.  You're really quite good!"

       "Bah!  I'll pretend you're telling the truth… and that I was sober," chuckled Shadow, setting the mug aside and cracking his back.  He carefully inspected his lip and jewels from the previous day's melee.  "I'd heal faster if I just rested, but I did enjoy.  Seeing everyone and their guests happy… it was wonderful.  Did you see Buddy with his sister and parents?  They're all practically identical, hehe.  Hmph…  Sonic and others have done much for my social anxiety, but I'd still rather garden than go out."  

       "They were thrilled you came," smiled Espio warmly.  "Some were in shock, seeing you chatting and smiling and hugging like that.  It certainly made me smile."

       "Thank you for going with me.  Truly," smiled Shadow, blowing a kiss from his fingertips.  "And how's my ninja with the cute tush?"

       "Ninja and tush are doing superbly," winked the chameleon, patting his posterior before turning around on his knees to warm it.  He splayed and surveyed his body.  "Bit of smoke inhalation, few small burns, nothing serious.  That flower wine Blaze brought did more damage than anything.  A ninja can't be--"  He noticed the hedgehog wincing slightly as he gently rolled his testes.  "Are, uh… are those going to be all right?"

       "Mm?  Oh, sorry.  Yes.  Still a little tender, nothing a bath can't fix," chuckled Shadow, leaning back and relaxing, his impressive member resting between his fit thighs.  "I think Infinite got the worst of it though, I heard Tails say he stomped him pretty good.  But he too shall recover."

       "Shall I fire up the tub?  A good soak can work wonders, I'm tempted myself."  The lizard shot Shadow a bashful grin.  "And if you ask nicely, I might even bathe you."

       "Then I'd better ask nicely," grinned Shadow, splaying and subtly wagging his assets as the chameleon's soft smile filled with color.  "But there's a few things I need to sort out this morning first.  Oh…"  Shadow thumbed over at a pile of soft quilts mounded on the couch, rising and falling softly as a pair of poofy orange tails protruded from underneath.  "I hope you don't mind sharing."
 
       "Not at all," grinned Espio, backing up a bit and hoisting his tail as he warmed his back and buns.  "We get on very well together.  I just… really hope he's forgiven me."  The lizard looked bashfully aside, rubbing his forearm.  "Can't believe I was tricked into endangering him like that."

       "He's fine," yawned Shadow, arms up high.  "Though it wouldn't hurt to talk with him when he wakes up."  The hedgehog reached over and gently patted the slumbering mound, smiling softly as the fire crackled and droplets pattered outside.

       "I shall.  He is truly sweet," nodded Espio, softly stroking his tail tip over his shoulder.  "And lucky to have his hedgehogs looking after him.  Though I am a bit surprised he didn't stay with Sonic for the after-party."

       "He had a monumentally tough day to say the least," shrugged Shadow, pulling up a knee and stretching his leg.  "We'd had enough by then.  The loud music, the hooting and hollering and hurling…  I'd rather stumble off and sleep than listen to people yell at Sonic, trying to get him to jump into that homemade pool."

       "You mean the bomb crater the rookies lined with tarps and filled with a hose?" chuckled Espio, shaking his head.  "I don't blame him for saying no, that's as sketchy as it gets.  And for the record, I did not help throw him in, either.  Wait--weren't you inside by then?"

       "I was," sipped Shadow.  "Listening to Amy, Big and Vector, apparently competing for the title of Worst Ever Topless Karaoke Singer."  The hedgehog closed his eyes and shuddered.

       "Is that what that was!?" guffawed Espio, clutching his stomach.  "Now I feel bad for not staying.  Did you at least vote?"

       "No, but I'm sure it was very close," snickered Shadow.  "I was much happier to come home.  Sonic sent me a picture at three a.m. of him, Knuckles and Amy drunkenly cuddled outside on an old air mattress.  I'll bet my bands they're still there, hehe.  I'm sure he'll find his way here after they sleep it off."

       "And hit the Pancake Palace," grinned Espio.  "I'm happier here too.  Drinking still makes me want to smoke and… make other poor choices.  I've been quit two full months now," he smiled proudly.

       "Congratulations," nodded Shadow, his eyes drifting over lizard's fit form.  He smiled and leaned forward, gently cupping the chameleon's cheek.  "I'm very proud of you.  You certainly taste better."

       "I didn't think of it that way," blushed Espio, his cheeks going rainbow-hued.  "But it's a wonderful incentive to keep going."  The lizard held Shadow's hand and kissed it.  The hedgehog smiled gently, rousing himself from the chair with a slight wince before kneeling with his purple colleague, pulling him close for a long, tender kiss.  A large, powerful hand slowly caressed the chameleon's svelte back and slender hips as the other slid beneath his tightly curled tail to squeeze his pert purple buns.  "Mmmmmpphh…" melted the lizard, kissing back and caressing the hedgehog's rugged face and cottony ruff.  The pair slowly suckled lips and tongues together before their eyes opened slowly, gazes dancing into one another.  "Still need to call in?" whispered Espio, his face flashing hot as he reached down and fondled warmly.  "Or is it pleasure before business?"

       "Mmmfff..." Shadow grinned, petting his fingers between the other male's mounds before squeezing and patting.  "Save it for the fox, and I'll save for you both."  Kissing again, he knelt side-by-side with the lizard, who curled his tail around the hedgehog's hip as they warmed hands.  "Business-wise, Kohal is already proving to be highly valuable.  Apparently Scourge was turned over to the Northern Fists, a renegade pack that took over when Infinite was banished."

       "I know bits and pieces from my Chaotix work," nodded Espio, drawing on Shadow's thigh.  "They're secretive and well organized.  Violent too, even by squad standards.  Some say they consider themselves the original squad even though you disbanded it.  Vector says they pushed the jackals' criminal enterprises the hardest.  Trafficking, piracy, bootlegging, smuggling, kidnapping, extortion… they're all about the money.  I doubt they gave a fig about Infinite's ambitions."

       "No, but they feared him and went along," nodded Shadow, tracing his fingers atop Espio's hand.  "Kohal tells Rouge the Fists made a hasty truce, swearing an oath of loyalty to Infinite and doing his dirty work.  Now that he's captured, those oaths aren't worth a wet fart.  An internecine fight is all but certain.  I want to locate Scourge, extract him before he mouths off to the wrong jackal and commence a long term surveillance.  Be ready."  The hedgehog sighed, rubbing his stiff neck as the lizard chuckled and caressed his chest.  "What a mess.  At least Nack had the good sense to avoid capture by fleeing to the mainland and gambling away all his money.  Oh, and I'll have to read Infinite's evaluations too at some point.  They're already starting to clutter my inbox."

       "You have an odd way of making victory sound like defeat," winked Espio, leaning over and smooching the hedgehog's cheek.  "We'll all be helping you.  Ruining a warlord's day is a ninja specialty, it works well on crimelords, too.  I can't wait!"

       "Bah, you're right," smiled Shadow, nuzzling back and tracing the heart-shaped outline on the lizard's chest.  "Next week's work is next week's work.  At least Infinite is off the table.  A few days' sleep in a real bed, pizza and ice cream, cartoons--that should soften him up.  Honey instead of vinegar, so to speak.  Then I'll see what I can extract."

       "I hope there's a bath involved," chuckled the lizard, reciprocating the caresses.  "He was a bit whiffy.  They all were."

       "It's a cultural thing.  Water is much too scarce in the Rift Zone to use selfishly.  The detention facility, not so much."  Shadow imitated Omega's signature monotone.  "Do not be shy, Mr. Infinite.  It is just us boys here.  I will scrub you.  Look, I even brought some bubble bath.  I hope you like strawberries."

       Espio laughed and joined in.  "Your coat is 66% matted.  Hold still, for I have located a cocklebur."  

       In the background, Tails stirred and groaned himself awake, rolling over and rubbing his eyes at the tittering duo.  "Nnnfff… Omega, is that you?"

       "Sorry fox, we were being inconsiderate," offered Shadow, smiling softly.  "You can go back to sleep."

       "Nah, hrm gonna geddup," yawned Tails, stretching under the quilts.  "Hrrmm… morning."

       "We should see if Kohal knows who hacked us.  Good morning, Tails," bowed Espio, reaching over and gently petting the fox's warm cheek and soft ear, bringing a sleepy murr.  "Infinite is very clever, but I don't believe he himself possesses that capability."

       "I intend to find out," nodded Shadow as the fox sat up and scratched his side.  "Tails' cyber team is already combing for any vulnerabilities, exploits they may have used.  Speaking of whom, good morning foxy," he smiled, leaning over and rubbing vulpine foot.  "How do you feel?"

       "Morning!  I'm good… little stiff," smiled the fox, squeezing Shadow's hand.  "Mild rope burn, couple blisters…  the big one's my neck, but it already feels better.  That was some fight, but I think the party was worse, hehe.  I kinda remember sitting in you guys' laps all the way here. then you helping me undress, Espio."  The fox scratched his head, looking around.  "Wait.  I was in the master bed.  How'd I end up on the couch?"  The fox rubbed his forearm and frowned slightly.  "Did you guys… um… need the bed to yourselves?  I mean, it's okay, it's just--"

       "Now, now," smiled Shadow gently, scooting over and kneeling between the fox's legs.  He laced fingers with him and gave his fuzzy, cream-colored belly a loud smooch.  "I keep my promises, orange gem.  My snoring and phone kept waking us all, so I took the zen room.  Espio saw you shivering when he got up, so he carried you to the quilt pile and made us this lovely fire."  

       "You're very cuddly," winked Espio, bringing a bashful smile to the fox's face.

       Shadow reached for a glass of water on the end table and handed to Tails, who gulped gratefully.  "We'll enjoy one another later on, no one left out," he winked, leaning in and giving the fox a long, deep, loving kiss, the fox moaning softly as the half empty glass drooped in his hand.  Espio smiled and set the glass aside.  "Would fox find that agreeable?"

       "Yes, hehe.  Thanks, guys.  And thanks for warming me up, Espio," smiled the fox, nuzzling as Shadow gently pulled aside the quilt, exposing a cutely curved and erect foxhood that sprang up as it was freed.  "Hey!"

       "Hello, what's this!?" gasped Shadow, feigning surprise and gently batting the fox's erection side to side with his nose, inhaling its warm, slept-in scent.  "Mmm… Espio, do you see this?  How scandalous!  Mister Fox, explain yourself," he winked, kissing and nibbling the head as the fox blushed and giggled and tried to cover it back up.  "Let me guess.  It's--"

       "I really gotta pee!" snickered Tails, giving a quick good-morning kiss.  Shadow chuckled and nodded and smooched back, helping the fox up and patting his butt as he bolted for the bath, snatching a quick morning hug and kiss from the chameleon en route.

       "Knuckles thinks there are others like Kohal that we could reach," continued Shadow, standing with hands to hips and stretching.  "Moderate factions we can quietly incentivize against the Fists.  I wish to find them.  Nnnfff… I'd better return his call.  Go ahead and fire up the bath, I'll join you shortly."

       The bath was cavernous yet cozy, with a six person hot tub, walk-in shower and two pedestal sinks.  A wide, low changing bench sat across from a picture window featuring an unbroken wall of alpine rainforest festooned with moss, vines and blossoms.  Elegant textures of wood, stone and bamboo predominated, the lighting soft and offset save for spotlights over the sinks.  Wicker shelves sat stuffed with luxurious linens between two doors, one for the sauna and the other leading to a toilet and bidet.  Staggered alcoves housed candles, unused wine glasses or wooden bowls filled with shells and corals.  The chameleon found Tails brushing his teeth at one of the sinks and did the same.

       "Care to share a bath with me?" smiled Espio, clicking a few buttons on a panel.  The hot tub began topping itself off, bubbling slowly to life as soft aqua green lighting glowed from its floor.

       The fox nodded as he brushed, tiptoeing to spit.  "I'd love to!  I was actually gonna come ask you guys."

       "Shadow's coming after his call," smiled Espio, loading his toothbrush as he felt his heart flutter a little.  "I thought maybe you and I could… there's some things I wanted to say."

       "Oh?" blushed Tails, padding over to check the water, his own body starting to get butterflies as he realized he was alone and naked with the attractive ninja.  He glanced over the lizard's fit form, leaning slightly forward over the sink as he brushed.  "I'd… I'd like that," he smiled, biting his lower lip.  Tiptoeing on the rim of the tub, the short fox barely managed to reach the candle sitting in an alcove over the water, wobbling a bit as he struck a match and lit it.  Steam condensing on the tiles made them slippery and the fox nearly pitched into the water.  "Whoooaaa!" he teetered, lit candle in one hand, smoking match in the other, but the ninja spit and sauntered up from behind, wrapping his arms around the fox's midriff and pressing his cheek into the fox's soft back.  "Hehe, why thank you," grinned Tails, curling his namesakes around the ninja as he slid the candle back in place.  "Usually Shadow or Sonic gets these high ones."

       "I like this technique better," winked Espio, his mouth comically ringed with foam as he patted the fox's rump.  "And the view.  Mmmff.  'Scuse me."  The fox giggled, holding the lizard's hand and carefully lowering himself into the water.  Taking the match, the chameleon rinsed at the sink and checked his long tongue.  

       "Ooo…. it's perfect," chirred the fox, slowly sinking into the welcoming bubbly jets until only his nose and tail tips still broke the surface.  A deep, extended moan escaped his nostrils, adding to the rising steam.

       As Espio stepped in, his face and sides flashed from light to reddish purple, the chameleon hissing softly as his tail curled up tight.  "Nnngghh!  Huh-- hot…"  But the deep, soothing heat soon won him over as well.  Tails' face rose dreamily out of the water, just in time to glimpse the lizard's sizable member and firm rump sinking in until only his horn remained.  Tilting the water from his ears, the fox knelt opposite his bathmate.  The ninja smiled gently, surprised to find him that close when he resurfaced.  "Well, hello there.  Come here often?"

       "I do, in fact," chuckled Tails, reaching for the blushing lizard's slender hips as the other male found his.  He nuzzled the ninja's horn and gave a soft, respectful kiss.  "And I'm glad you finally got to join.  I won't lie, I got a tiny bit jealous when Shadow told me you… would be staying from time to time.  But if he and Sonic are okay with it, then I am too," he blushed.

       "Fear not, sweet fox," blushed Espio, running his hands slowly over his sides.  "I'm still mostly just an interloper.  I have my business partners to look after, and still do my best work alone.  You are superbly lucky to have the loves you do, Tails.  I am humbled greatly to be permitted to share if… if you'll have me," he bowed.  "But first, I must apologize for my behavior.  It was utterly unacceptable."

       "Aww, it's okay," shrugged the fox, tilting his head and smiling.  "I mean, I was scared and confused, but deep down I just sorta knew there's no way you'd ever really hurt me.  Not in a million years."  The fox ventured a kiss on the lizard's cheek and gave him a soft underwater fondle.  "You're my friend, Espio.  I trust you."

       "You… you do?"  The words seemed to sideswipe the ninja, who sat and searched the fox's ocean blue eyes with his own.  His throat got tighter and tighter, cheeks reddening still further as his clear golden eyes rapidly grew wet.  Clearing his throat, he nodded mutely and blinked, sending tears into the water.

       "Oh, no!" searched the fox, ears flattening as he rubbed the lizard's hand, "did I say something wrong?"

       "N-no," sniffed the lizard softly, grabbing the fox's hands and squeezing as fresh tears replaced those that fell.  "I just felt so awful.  The order--it was absurd!  But I chose blind obedience over my instincts, and you nearly got taken because of it.  Ugh…"  Closing his eyes, the lizard hugged the fox tight as tears poured.  

       "Hey, it's all over now," comforted the fox, hugging back.  "You got tricked by someone who knew exactly what to say, right down to the letter.  I would have believed the order too.  And unless Infinite fesses up, it's gonna take a long time to figure out how we got hacked so perfectly.  But think about it!  Everyone noticed right away when we went missing.  They didn't argue, they just came running when we needed it most.  That's… that's what friends do for each other.  Right?" nodded the fox, his own eyes getting moist as he looked the ninja in the eyes and swallowed hard.  "So… so you better forgive yourself Espio, because…"  The fox swallowed hard as his own tears began to spill.  "Because I already have."  The pair hugged tight, tears flowing as they slowly rocked in one another's arms in the soothing swirl of bubbles.  At length, they laced fingers and nuzzled reassuringly, the soft sounds of rain and forest birds wafting in through the high windows.

       "Thank you, beautiful fox," whispered the chameleon, colors calming as he kissed Tails' cheek.  "I would protect you, Shadow, Sonic and the others with my life.  May no one ever deceive me like that again."  Heaving a sigh of relief, he sat on the smooth submerged ledge and welcomed the fox into his lap.  "Yesterday was surreal.  I still can't believe it all happened.  If the ancestors could see me now, they'd--"

       "They'd be proud of you," chimed Tails, kissing the lizard's shoulder as his buns cradled his loins.  "You stood up to Infinite the whole time.  You even called him out as a fraud, a faker.  Right to his face!" he giggled, toes wiggling out of the water.  

       "Oh, I'd had enough of him by then," laughed the lizard, lifting the fox's hand and kissing it.  "Pompous windbag.  My grandfather once said if the world didn't have cruelty, greed or bullies, it wouldn't need ninjas either.  He was a great ninja, but he was happiest just tending his garden.  And you were a sight yourself, fox.  You stopped your own abduction!  Heard you mashed Infinite's potatoes pretty good," he chuckled.

       "I grew up with lots of bullies, it was on at the at point," smirked the fox, his hand slipping beneath the water to idly pet the lizard's semisoft shaft and smooth orbs, bringing forth a soft, appreciative moan.  "When it's time to fight back, you give it all you've got, hehe.  Mmm..."

       "Damn right," nodded the ninja, his own hand slipping underwater to return the petting, gently brushing and exploring the fox's growing organ and velvety jewels with his fingertips.  He watched the fox blush and lick his lips, leaning back and splaying wider for the lizard.  "Mmmmm," nodded Espio, the pair sharing a quick, knowing glance as each fondled the other unseen.  "Infinite looked so small and miserable without his ruby, hanging there in Omega's arms like wet laundry.  Curse me for saying it, but I kind of feel sorry for him now."

       "Because you have a good heart.  It's clearly marked," smiled Tails bashfully, tracing the outline of the lizard's chest and booping his horn.  "It's going to take me a long time to forgive that guy after what he did.  But... I'm not the sort to be bitter."

       "You're much too sweet for that," nuzzled the lizard, winking as his other hand slid down and squeezed the fox's bubbled orange buns.  "What matters is we made it.  And a friends I treasure were not seriously hurt or taken from me."  Gazing softly, he let the warm, wet vulpine shift over his body until they were lip to lip, their submerged shafts sliding and pressing together.  Both males gazed excitedly at one another, tilting heads and opening mouths as they leaned in kissed… deeply.  "Mmmmph!" was all the ninja managed to say.  Eyelids fluttered and lips swirled and suckled, pressing and tasting together as hot, excited breath began to exhale cheek to cheek.  The ninja's fondling fingers found and fiddled the fox's nipples, rewarding him with muffled moans as Tails squeezed and stroked the lizard's hardening cock against his own.  Cradling the fox in his arms, the chameleon slipped his long, dextrous tongue in around its velvety vulpine counterpart, snaking and swirling together as the kiss grew deeper and more adamant.  The fox's ears went flat, his damp, steaming chest rising and falling as he suckled the lizard's tongue, their flushed faces adorned with droplets.  Espio broke the kiss, the fox breathing hard and blinking curiously until the other male went for his neck, sucking the young flier's tender throat and jawline.  Tails trembled in the swirling water, mouth agape and moaning louder as the ninja suckled each tender patch of skin, nuzzling through his chest cotton to give each hard little nipple loving licks and suckles as he gently tugged and rolled the other, the bath filling with the fox's pleasured gasps and grunts.  Tails' hips squirmed from the intense pleasure, his curved cock surfacing enough for the ninja to see it was fully erect and leaking.  Sliding and arm around the fox's back and squeezing his rump, the chameleon gripped the throbbing wonder, slowly stroking it as he licked his way down.  "Goodness," murred the lizard, licking in circles around the fox's belly button, "so vocal and soft.  Even more adorable than I imagined.  What ever shall I do with you?"

       "You could…  I mean…  I'd like…" stammered Tails, watching intently as the lizard's long, pink tongue licked lower over his belly.  Swallowing hard, he gently slid from the chameleon's lap and kneeled in the water, placing his hands on the lizard's thighs.  He looked up into his eyes, needful but determined.  "Espio?  I really want to suck your cock!"

       "Mmmff…  now who could ever refuse an offer like that?  Or such a sweet face," he grinned, gently booping the needful fox's nose.  Smirking playfully, Tails reared up and caught ninja's finger with his mouth, suckling it suggestively as his tongue swirled around it.  The chameleon's eyes went wide, brow dampening as his heart jumped into his throat.  "Yesss....  as you wish, naughty one," he nodded.  As the chameleon stood, his fully hard cock rose impressively from the water, wagging off crystal droplets as it jutted towards the fox's face.  

       Releasing the ninja's digit, the kneeling fox grasped the mesmerizing member's base and wagged it side to side, admiring its heft and girth.  Aiming the bulbous head towards his lips, he kissed the tip a few times before opening wide, engulfing most of the lizard's thick magenta meat.  His lips closed around the shaft as his tongue cradled the head and sensitive, spongy underside.  The lizard's fat, tasty mushroom throbbed hard as the fox gently pressed his throat over the tip, eyes closing dreamily as he whimpered and savored the taste, texture and heat of his friend's cock for the first time.  "Mmmmmph…"

       "Sweet heavens," whispered Espio, head and horn tilting back, eyes closing as he felt the fox's superb mouth start to move, sucking hungrily as his tongue lapped under his cockhead and over his slit.  The fox was clearly experienced--and enjoying himself.  The ninja's legs trembled as blood kept rushing from his head to other places.  He gripped the tiles with his fingertips and cradled the fox's bobbing head.  "Tails…" he cooed, chin slowly sinking to his chest as he peeked at the fox devouring his cock, bobbing and suckling and pumping wetly as the bath echoed with eager slurping.  "Yesssss…  I've been with girls from Station Square to Rokkaku Hill," he huffed, his slim purple hips beginning to buck into the fox's face.  "How is it you're so good?"

       The fox plunged his lips down to the hilt, exhaling hotly through his black button nose against purple pubic skin.  Relaxing his muscles and holding his breath, he paused, feeling the pulsating purple pole ooze sticky precum down his tender throat.  Sucking back up slowly to the tip, the fox let his lizard lover's length pop wetly out, panting as a thick, gooey strand of mixed precum and saliva stretched obscenely from chin to foreskin.  His blue eyes danced with the lizard's as he licked and swirled his tongue around the glans.  "I don't think I'm better," he giggled softly, milking the lizard's precum and lapping it away.  The fox swallowed and thought.  "I just like doing this, hehe.  You have really nice cock, Espio," he smiled, rubbing it softly over his face.  "Mmm… it's sleek and strong and purple and mostly straight, just like you, hehe."  Slipping lower, he sucked the ninja's handsome sack, letting the amethyst orbs slide and pop wetly in and out of his lips, one, then the other, then both, wagging in the water as the lizard's moans filled the room.

       "Huuhhnn… yesss!  Suck those jewels, foxy…" hissed the lizard, eyes clamping shut once more as he cradled the fox's ears and massaged them with his fingertips.  He leaked copiously on the fox's forehead.  "Oh, Tails…" he huffed, panting hard as his tightening sack popped free and got sucked him in again, the fox's mouth and pumping hand working together.  "C-careful…  I'm … I'm already getting close…"

       "Mmmhmm..." nodded the fox, bobbing and slurping wetly again as his own untouched cock throbbed and leaked beneath the water.  "How about..." he licked, slapping the lizard's glans against his tongue and showing off his warm, pink throat, "...you come on my face?"

       "Tease!" panted the lizard, licking his lips as his fingers and toes started to curl.

       "It's not teasing if I let you," giggled Tails, lapping and sucking the underside of the riveted chameleon's twitching cock, stroking it faster against his tongue as a powerful climax billowed inside the lizard's body.  "Yeah…  it's gonna be cum time…  you like it when a gay fox boi sucks your cock, don't you?  I'm gonna put on my collar and panties on for you tonight... so the big boys can have a horny little vixen to play with, hehe..."

       "Huhhnn-- huh!?  You'd do that for me!?  Kinky!  Yes!  YES!  I wuh-- want that!  Hnngghh!  HNNFFF!  Oh, fuck!  Tails!  Here I come!!"  huffed the lizard, tilting the fox's head back with one hand while jerking his straining, pulsating cock in the other, moaning hard as orgasm crashed through his body.  The first few spurts were explosive, cum splattering the tiles as it overshot the fox's face and wide-open mouth, but those that followed hit their mark, splashing and glazing the fox's dreamy visage from chin to bangs as he steadily stroked himself.  What made it into his mouth was warm, thick and surprisingly sweet.  As the purple canon's shots ebbed to a throbbing ooze, the fox gratefully sucked it clean, savoring and swallowing the chameleon's gift.  Puffing red from horn to chest, the winded ninja wiped his brow and surveyed his handiwork, chuckling as he tapped the last few drops on the fox's tongue.  He swiped some of the gooey mess from the vulpine's chin and fed it to him, murring as his digits were suckled clean.  "I don't remember the last time I came that hard… you know an awful lot about what I like, naughty fox," he winked.  Leaning down, he gave the vulpine a deep, wet, cummy kiss, their tongues twirling and tasting his essence together.  "Mmmff… good boy.  Now stand up, let me see if I can return the favor."

       Nodding excitedly, Tails ducked under the water and rinsed before standing as bidden.  The ninja took to his knees, admiring the cutely curved fox-rod as it rose to greet him.  Fully hard, its decent size was accentuated by the owner's smaller frame; the euphoric lizard nibbled and kissed all over the fox's fluffy chest and warm belly, bringing a flurry of little moans as the vulpine's erection pressed against the chameleon's smooth, heart-shaped chest.  Working his way down, the lizard cupped the fox's partly tightened orbs, gently tugging and rolling and admiring the fuzzy jewels before them a long, loving kiss, which brought the fox's hands to head, caressing appreciatively.  Opening his mouth, the chameleon extended his extra long tongue, licking up the fox's shaft before spiraling around it like a warm, wet snake, licking and stroking it at the same time as he bobbed his head.  "W-wow!  That's a cool trick!" huffed Tails, watching excitedly as the lizard winked up at him, tongue-stroking the tasty rod in past his lips.  The fox's jaw dropped with pleasure, eyes dreamy as the ninja's slick, grippy tongue stayed coiled around him. sliding and stroking as the lizard sucked and savored.  The talented appendage explored every fold and contour, licking around the glans, under the foreskin, even the fox's urethra, bringing a surprised gasp and powerful throbs as the fox leaked harder.  Catching his breath, the lizard curled his tongue around the fox's velvety balls, tugging and suckling as the moaning, drooling fox held his horn and quivered.  "OOOOOooooohhhhh!"

       "Mmmmm, you like that, eh?" exhaled Espio breathlessly, pulling off and stroking the fox, his face awash in multiple colors as he kissed the tip.  "Your cock is adorable… a delicacy.  I've wanted to do this for a long time..."  He nuzzled his hot face against it, licking slowly up the underside, eyes dreamy as his own cock began hardening again.  "So cute and sweet… upwards-looking, like its owner…  pleasuring another male like this… nnnnfff… intoxicating."  Sealing his lips around the fox's shaft, he fellated faster, lapping at the leaky tip as the fox's gentle whimpers and moans made music in his ears.  Tails' balls drew up tight, his pert orange buns pinching in as the ninja snuck a hand under his namesakes, petting and stroking his delicate pink foxhole.  Already edged from servicing the ninja, the fox could not hold back against the subtle probing.  Ears flat and cheeks red, he tried to warn the ninja, but the latter spoke first.  "Do it.  Come for me, foxy," murred Espio, licking and masturbating the fox with practised stokes as his unseen fingertip began to penetrate.  "Just think about that big purple ninja sword… I'm going to hike your panties aside from the back and squeeeeeze into your boi-pussy..."  

       "Uhhhnnn…  Eh--!  Esh--!  ESPIOOOoooOOOooo!!" hollered the fox, his cock, fingers and ring all twitching in unison as orgasm overwhelmed, quaking his short frame and sending waves of tingly pleasure to every corner of his body.  Watching for the delicacy, the ninja held the fox's pulsating cock upward like a bamboo flute, lips to tip as his fingertips stroked the shaft.  His other hand caressed the fox's feathery taint and drum-tight balls as jets of splashy, hot fox cum shot right into his mouth, tongue lapping at the head and prolonging his friend's loud, moaning release.  Blushing red, the flute player lost himself in the act, moaning softly as he savored, letting the seed pool and peeking at the fox's taut belly huffing away until there was nothing more to ejaculate.  As if at a tea ceremony, the kneeling ninja elegantly pulled his lip from the fox's still-throbbing cock and paused, hands on thighs, back straight and eyes closed as he swallowed.  "Mmmph… delightful," nodded the chameleon, sucking his fingers and caressing the fox's heaving chest.  "Someone enjoys his sweets.  And mint tea," he winked, the fox giving a breathless giggle.  "So perfect…  my cock says it's high noon again, fox.  Ready for another round?"

       "You bet I am," grinned the flushed fox, helping the ninja stand and embracing him with a long, deep kiss as their cocks brushed together.  Reaching for the rack, the chameleon snagged a plush towel and laid it carefully over the ledge surrounding the tub on three sides.  Laying back, Tails raised his thighs over his torso and grabbed under his knees, smiling bashfully between his legs at the ninja.  "Like what you see?"

       "More than like," grinned Espio, stroking himself and picking through the bottles sitting on the ledge.  Finding lube, he popped the top and squeezed some on his jutting cock, stroking himself slick and fingering the excess onto the presented pink pucker.  "Mmmmm…. how does Shadow even get anything done up here, when he has this right under his nose?" he smiled, setting the bottle aside and hooking the fox's legs over his shoulder.

       "I try keep my hedgehogs happy, hehe-- nnnfff!" whimpered Tails, tugging himself once more as the ninja rubbed and smeared his fat, slippery glans up and down over the fox's warm, tight, finely textured ring, gently teasing it open with each pass.  The fox clutched his ruff and smiled bashfully.  "Go slow, okay?  As busy as everyone's been, it's… been a while."

       "I'm good at slipping into tight spaces," winked the ninja.  Cradling one of Tails' legs, he pressed his tip to the fox's hole and advanced his hips, licking his lips as he watched his erection start to press in.  Tails gasped softly as he was opened, body tensing a bit as the ninja paused.  Tugging his fox-cock, he nodded and signaled for more.  Espio grunted gently as he obliged, his cockhead popping in past the tight orifice, bringing another gasp and grateful moan.  "All right?" he murred patiently, letting the fox nod again before pressing deeper into the velvety embrace, inch by inch until his cock had vanished.  Both males grunted and bit their lips as the lizard throbbed inside the fox's hot tunnel.  Espio held, petting the silky stretch between the fox's anus and balls with his thumb.  "All in," he whispered, gently rolling and caressing the fox's orbs.  "How does it feel?"

       "Wuh--  wonderful!" he exhaled, slowly tugging his cock, his ring clenching tightly each time either of them throbbed.  "You're… you found my tingly spot, too…  Wayyy deep inside… mmmfff!" he grunted, his penis leaking anew.

       "Good, because it's too late to go grab those panties," winked Espio, swaying his hips and stretching the fox a bit more.  "We'll start nice and easy."  Both breathed deeply as the lizard began to fuck, the fox's slickened insides adjusting to his girth.  Watching his cock slide in and out, the ninja let out a deep, satisfied moan, mixing with the fox's soft, pleasured gasps as reinvigorated ninja pole took on tight, slippery boi-pussy.  Zeroed in on one another as the tub hissed and bubbled, the otherwise sharp-eared duo didn't hear the door slide open.

       "I see you two have made amends," smirked Shadow, clutching his coffee as he leaned by the tub and watched.  He had donned a short silk kimono, charcoal gray and finely patterned with black and red orchids.  Untied and open, the garment permitted full view of his luxurious chest, fit abs and pendulous cock.  He sipped as the other two froze, looked at one another, then back at him.  "Ahhh… a rousing roast for a rousing sight!  Please continue."

       "We… we didn't mean to start without you, Master," blushed Espio, his paused prick buried balls deep inside the fox, who looked up and smiled bashfully.

       "I said go ahead, didn't I?" he winked, taking a sip.  "My house is a sanctuary, you don't need my permission to enjoy one another.  I hurried my calls as best I could.  Things are sorted out until next week.  Now then," he grinned, setting the mug aside and placing his hands behind his neck, swaying his cock impressively side to side, "would it be all right if Master joined in?"

       "More than all right," nodded Espio, licking his lips as his blush intensified.  He resumed his slow thrusts, stroking the leaky fox as they stole glances of hedgehog's handsome endowments.

       Turning his head to Shadow, Tails opened his mouth wide and pointed to it.  With a playful smirk, the dark hedgehog sat beside the fox's head and leaned in, kissing the chameleon deeply, caressing his cheek before sliding his strong hand down to give the thrusting, pinched-in purple rump a playful smack and firm squeeze.  He then lowered his garnet gaze to the prone, stuffed fox muzzling his cock as his soft head lay on his thigh.  "The ninja's getting me with his--AH!--big sword," giggled the fox, gasping as the lizard gripped his legs and thrusted harder.  "Uhhnn!  You… you should get him back, hehe."

       "I shall avenge you," grinned Shadow, petting Tails' cottony cheek and velour ears.  "But for now, naughty one..."  He lifted his heavy, veiny cock over the fox's warm, dreamy face and soft, open lips.  "Suck."  The very next breath, the fox opened wide and took as much of the onyx rod as he could, his mouth suddenly full of steadily hardening hedgehog as he suckled obediently.  His sensitive nose drank in the hedgehog's slept-in scent, masculine with notes of coffee and firewood, the veiny mouthful flavored with traces of salt and sweat.  His tongue cradled the glans, licking under it and the foreskin as he pleasured, murring at the attentive cocks filling him at both ends.  As Shadow patiently fed him more, the tip bumped the fox's tonsils, muffling his moans as his own cock twitched and leaked, tightening his ring around the thrusting ninja.  "Good boy," whispered Shadow, nodding and licking his lips as he caressed the fox's ear and played with his hard little nips.  "Look at you, taking us both like a champ.  Get it nice and wet now, Master has some catching up to do."  As the sound of slurpy suckling and slick fucking filled their ears, the hedgehog kissed Espio once more, the chameleon's cheeks radiating color as his host teased under his tail, prodding and petting his swaying entrance.

       "Mmmmph!  What… what is Master thinking?" murred the chameleon, licking with Shadow and gyrating his svelte hips as he fucked, pivoting deep inside the whimpering, slurping fox, who reached up and began pumping the hedgehog's hardon, eyes closing as he lost himself in the full spitroast.  Already close to orgasm, the fox gently pulled Espio's hand from his erection and laced fingers, squeezing as he twitched and leaked on his own, his velvety balls drawn up as tight  as the topping lizard's.  Shadow smiled, popping his glistening thickness from the fox's mouth and slapping it wetly against his tongue, admiring the cocksucker's dreamy expression and soft, pink throat.  Leaning down, he gave Tails a deep, loving kiss, then a gentle boop before slipping into the tub behind Espio.  Taking the lube, he slathered his veiny shaft and slapped the excess between the lizard's cheeks.  Peeking bashfully over his shoulder, the chameleon let out deep anticipatory moan as the hedgehog gripped the base of his tail began pushing in.  "OOOOOooooohhhhh!!"

       "Mmm, someone's entering the ninja," murred Tails, the lizard's cock starting to spasm wildly inside him.  

       "Sweet Chaos, is he ever," nodded Espio, eyes closed and brow furrowing.  Tails took one of the ninja's fingers and sucked it, the force of the hedgehog's advance shoving the chameleon's cock deep inside the whimpering fox; each male throbbed into the next next like a chain reaction.  The hedgehog hissed softly through his teeth as his thickness vanished inside the slick, hot tunnel, the ninja wiggling down to meet the gentle thrusts until big black balls nestled up behind smooth purple jewels.

       "Good boy," rumbled Shadow, kissing the chameleon's shoulder.  "Master's all inside you now.  Nnfff… how I've missed this."

       "Mmmmhuuuhhoooohhhhhh," slurred Espio dizzily, eyes opening to half-lids as he carefully resumed his thrusts, alternately filling the fox while impaling himself on the hedgehog's fat, stationary pole.  "Oooofff!  I've… I've never been the muh-- middle man… it feels amhh-- amazing!"

       "Then let me do the work.  You just enjoy," smiled Shadow, gently guiding the ninja's slender hips, pushing and pulling them back and forth, forcing the lizard to top and bottom, thrust and be thrusted in.  Pleasure poured in from front and back, the mind-blowing sensation of fucking while being fucked acting like a feedback loop.  Each thrust made him throb, each throb made him clench, a smiling, eager, rosy-cheeked lover in front and behind.  The ninja's legs quivered as hedgehog spooned in and kissed him over his shoulder, forcing his pelvis faster and harder as the moaning fox played with his smooth chest.  In short order, both bottoms' balls were beyond bursting, tight and aching to release.  Feeling the moment drawing near, Shadow purposely slowed them down and started kissing and sucking Espio's tender neck, the latter's entire body color deepening as his moans filled the room.

       "Nguh… Ruh-- rock my hips, Master… faster… fuck me!" begged the ninja breathlessly, gripping under Tails' knees for dear life as an intense pulling sensation began deep behind his balls, the hedgehog's commanding, thick, thrusting cock pounding his gaping hole and prodding his prostate.  Shadow huffed and grunted, speeding the trio up and adding thrusts of his own, quills swaying and balls slapping as he too readied to release.  It was too much for the ninja, his body quaking as it gave way.  "I cuh-- can't-- can't hold it!  Hnnghhh!!  Master…. Tails!"  His toned purple frame went rigid as he and Shadow bashed hips, back and forth like a revving piston, quickening his own cock inside the moaning, gasping, bouncing fox.  "Cuh--- come-- COMING!  UHNFF!  UHNFF… Uhnff… Hnnnff… OOOooohhhh..."  Fresh ropes of creamy chameleon cum shot deep into Tails, who used his namesakes to keep the ninja buried in his bottom as Shadow did the same with his hips.  The hedgehog murred deeply, playfully biting the ninja's nape as his ring spasmed and gripped his leaky girth.

       "Wow," blinked Tails, looking up at the others and slowly tugging himself, "you came lots, Espio.  Again, hehe.  I can feel it!"  The fox reared up and kissed the chameleon sweetly.  "Mmm… that felt really good."  

       "Excellent," panted Shadow softly, patting Espio's rump before another tender kiss.  "Fox adores being filled.  It's very bonding," he nuzzled.

       "Th-- thank you, Master," nuzzled the ninja back dreamily, caressing the fox's soft chest and using his strong tail to keep Shadow's shaft buried inside.  "And you too, beautiful fox.  I feel selfish though, coming first like that," he blushed, smiling as warming waves of afterglow went through his body.  "But you two are just too good," he chuckled, squeezing his buns around Shadow with a wink.  "Would Master like to… unburden himself?"

       "Hey Shads?" came a sudden voice from the hallway.  "Hello?  Anyone back here?"  The intimately interlocked trio held their breath in unison as the door slid open.  Clad in his favorite red running shoes and a pair of matching silky shorts, a sweaty blue hedgehog sauntered into the bath, a partly eaten sandwich in his hand.  Turning to one of the mirrors, he took another bite before setting his snack on the sink, an olive slipping free and rolling down the drain as he checked his face.  Bending over to unlace his shoes, he called around the corner.  "That you, Shads?  Hey, sorry I didn't text first.  I took off the minute I got up.  Great party last night, but man, I just had to sweat it all out, hehe.  I snagged a sammich from your fridge, hope that's okay."  Stepping out of his shoes, he finally rounded the corner, eyes going wide at the sight.  "Are you--  Wow!" he blinked, absent-mindedly adjusting his bulge.  "Uh…  hey, guys!  Having some fun?  I kinda thought we were gonna, you know, do this tonight, maybe.  But there's nothing wrong with a warmup!  Um…  I was actually gonna shower, but you think maybe I could--"

       "Get in, blue butt," chuckled Shadow, helping Espio gently pull out. A thick pool of cum followed the lizard's softening cock as it slipped out and rested atop the fox's balls.  "You belong here anyway, with your fox and I.  But your food and dirty shoes do not," he smirked, pointing towards the door.  "House rules, blue."

       "Boots off for booty?" giggled Espio, nestling dreamily back against the hedgehog.

       "Aww, come on guys, I was starving!  That is not a short run," pleaded Sonic, taking a huge bite as another olive bounced on the floor.  He picked it up and ate it, sucking his fingers as Shadow sighed.  "I can finish it while someone gets me hard, hehe."  The dark hedgehog shook his head and pointed again.  "Fine," huffed Sonic, rolling his eyes and snatching up his shoes before dashing out the door.

       "There's better things to eat in here, Sonic!" giggled Tails, blowing a kiss, which the hedgehog ‘caught' as he returned, playfully tucking it inside the front of his tenting shorts.

       "Dirty socks in the hamper," added Shadow, massaging Espio's soft shoulders as Sonic groaned and stomped back out the door.  He chuckled and gently pulled out of the chameleon, who grunted softly and cuddled as Shadow kissed his shoulder.  "Silly boy.  Let's see what he wants to do."

       "Works for me," grinned Espio, pulling Tails to a sitting position and kissing him sweetly.  Now free to turn around, the chameleon kissed Shadow as well, hanging his arms around his neck.  "I feel spoiled rotten already."

       "Hope you can handle some more, scaly-butt," grinned Sonic, returning minus the sandwich and socks.  Standing at the tub's edge, he smiled and hooked his thumbs in his shorts, pushing them down until his azure and tan cock popped free of the waistband.  Curved, veiny and only slightly cut, it was akin to the ninja's in size, longer than Tails' but shorter Shadow's, thick and handsome nonetheless.  It wagged stiffly over a his attractive blue balls as he stepped out of his shorts.  "I thought about sex most of way up here," he grinned, picking up the shorts and slingshotting them down the hall.  "Any idea how hard it is to run with a chubster?"  Hopping into the tub, he smacked and squeezed Shadow's ass before giving his smirking host a deep, licky, affectionate kiss, the pair nuzzling tenderly as green eyes danced with crimson.  "Mmmff…  I missed you, TDH.*  And I missed you too, sweet foxy of mine," he smiled, pulling Tails up by both hands and kissing just as deeply, the hedgehog's hands sliding down to firmly squeeze the fox's squishy, freshly filled buns.  "Are you keeping the guys happy, propeller-butt?"

*TDH = Tall Dark and Hedgehog, an early series nickname for Shadow that Sonic refuses to stop using and which Shadow secretly loves

       "Yeah," blushed Tails, rubbing Sonic's chest and suckling his neck and chin.

       "Mmmmm… good boy," nodded Sonic, noticing the cummy, lube-enhanced slick between the fox's cheeks.  He petted under Tails' namesakes, rubbing his fingertips over the squishy ring in slow circles.  "You like taking lots of nice fat hedgie-dick, don't you?  Hedgie loves his naughty foxy," he nuzzled, squeezing Tails' erection against his own as the fox moaned softly.  "And now our sweet ninja pal gets to play too.  Did you guys kiss and make up?"

       "Soniiic," groaned Tails bashfully, hiding his face against the hedgehog's chest as the others shared a chuckle.  "Yes we did, you're embarrassing me!"

       "What's that?" snickered Sonic, winking at the others, "you love me?"

       "I love you," came the muffled response, the fox wiggling his tush in Sonic's hands.

       "Good!" winked the blue beau, pulling back and giving the red-faced fox a playful smooch on the lips.  "You too, sexy scales," smiled Sonic at Espio, reaching down for an affectionate fondle.  "Bring it on in here."

       "Well, I--  Mmmph!" The chameleon's eyes went wide as Sonic leaned in and frenched him without further ado, but he soon found himself melting into the licky, athletic kiss, reaching up to caress the runner's broad, smooth chest and the fox's soft head resting on it.  The lizard's blush turned blue in places, perfectly matching the hedgehog's cheerful hue as their tongues and lips suckled and swirled.  The other two smiled knowingly as the kiss broke, the foursome holding one another's butts in a loose circle.  "I never knew you guys were this close," swallowed the lizard, warmly petting Shadow and Tails' rumps as he gazed shyly across at Sonic.  "Or dreamed I'd be invited to share…. it's beautiful.  I… I hope it's all right to say, this weekend I belong to all of you," he blushed.

       "Aww… yes I agree, and yes you may, and yes you do," winked Sonic, slipping his hands down to squeeze Shadow and Tails' buns before kissing each male respectively.  "You're in our house now, Espio.  We're yours, too.  Mmmfff…  seeing you guys, all horny and loving," he nodded, his throat getting tight and dry, "makes me really really wanna pop my cork, hehe."

       "Then we really really ought to help you," chuckled Shadow, surreptitiously sliding his fingers under Sonic's tail and petting his pucker, the blue hedgehog wagging and moaning at the touch.  "There are a lot of options.  Espio just bred our lovely fox, and I was about to breed him.  What might blue butt like?"

       "This!" grinned Sonic, pushing Shadow down into the tub with a huge splash that sent water over the edge as the surprised fox and lizard giggled and held one another.

       "Oaf!" sputtered Shadow as his face resurfaced.  He shook out his quills as Sonic straddled and held him in place with his strong legs.  The dark hedgehog's soaked kimono clung like a second skin as he huffed sourly at Sonic, who grinned wide and helped him peel it off.  "Rouge bought me this, if it shrinks I'm going to spank you!"

       "I hope so," giggled Sonic, tossing the kimono over the towel rack.  "Here.  Lay up here on your back," he smiled, patting the wide ledge between the tub and the picture window.  "I know how to make it up to ya."  Begrudgingly at first, the obsidian hedgehog did as bidden, his scowl lifting as the firm, sun- and steam-warmed planks soothed his back.  Climbing out, Sonic grabbed the lube and straddled Shadow again before squirting some on his fingertips, reaching behind to slick up his ring before stroking the rest over Shadow's pole prodding his blue buns.  Bottle in hand, he beckoned to the fox and lizard.  "Tails?  Come.  Let's give his mouth something better to do than complain.  Espio?" grinned Sonic, winking at the bashful lizard and patting the ledge, "come stand next to me.  I want to give that purple sword of yours a proper hedgehog hello.  Then we'll take care of that sweet little butt."

       "Ambitious as always--nnnfff," grinned Shadow, biting his lip as Sonic reached back and directed his cock inside, wiggling and sliding his tight, fit ass down over the rehardening girth.  Both hedgehogs closed their eyes and grunted softly as Sonic's bubbled buns slowly but surely consumed the whole of Shadow's towering cock, his large, loose obsidian orbs snuggling firmly into Sonic's crack.

       "Ooooohhhhh," sighed Sonic dreamily, brow furrowed as he pried open his buns to squeeze in the last bit of length, his blue and tan rod jutting up over the dark hedgehog's belly as  he started to leak as Shadow moaned deeply.  "So good," he nodded breathlessly, stretched wide and filled tight as his insides parted way.  "Dang… I swear I can feel you in my lungs, big hog…. Nnnfff!"  Hands to thighs, the blue hedgehog's buns pinched in cutely as he began to ride.  He took Espio's hand as the lizard climbed out, dripping on the ledge as he stood bashfully at Sonic's shoulder.  The hedgehog smiled up at him and playfully kissed his cock.

       Tails, meanwhile, squeezed the water from his namesakes and got out to straddle Shadow's head, facing Sonic as he gracefully draped his twin plumes aside.  Stroking excitedly, he patted his butt and grinned down at shadow.  "You like?"

       "Gimme," nodded the dark hedgehog, rumbling at the sight of vulpine nethers nestling down to his face.  His big, firm hands grabbed the fox's cheeks, squeezing as his muzzle parted the fox's warm, wet crevice, rimming and suckling the perfectly pink, freshly fucked foxhole pressing to his mouth.  Tails' face radiated pleasure, moaning mouth hanging open with eyes at half-lids, feeling up his ruff as he felt the fighter's experienced tongue and attentive lips work and pleasure his pucker and taint, pausing only to give playful love bites to the inside of his cheeks.  Sonic winked, leaning forward and giving the fox a long, deep kiss.  "Mmmff… someone just got way harder inside me," he grinned, riding the black and red pole just a tad faster.  "Good fox.  Grind it for him!"

       "Ngurffrrmnnuhh," nodded Tails, painting and wobbling a bit as he switched to fondling Sonic's chest, the steamy bath filling with the slurpy, slick sounds of eaten ass and ridden cock.

       Reaching behind Espio, Sonic fondled and squeezed the chameleon's perky rump.  "And now for you, sexy scaly," he nodded, pressing in and kissing the crease between the chameleon's thigh and crotch, murring as he felt the ninja's warm cock press to his cheek.  Reaching up, he squeezed the big purple pole, stroking it against his face and burying his head in the chameleon's crotch.  "Mmmmm… you smell so good… you've got a great bod, too."

       "Th-thank you," blushed the chameleon, face hot and tingly as his extremities quivered.  "You look spectacular… all of you do."  He swallowed hard and chuckled, breath quickening from the anticipation.  "I… I'm not sure I'll last very long this time, if you're going to do what I think you're going to do."

       "And what am I going to do?" grinned Sonic, stroking the ninja's cock as he leaned in and sucked the crease between thigh and ball-sack, bringing out a low, grateful moan.

       "Ooooohhhhh…"  The chameleon's face and torso colors shifted, deepening red as he throbbed extra hard in the hedgehog's hand.  "I've… I've dreamed about this… one of my very best friends is about to… to… use his mouth on me… hnnnhh…"

       "You mean two very best friends," licked Sonic, lapping lasciviously up the underside of the ninja's tasty, straight pole and kissing the tip.  "Because my beautiful fox is gonna team up with me.  Let's give him the extra special kiss, Tails!"  The flushed, giggling pair of Shadow-straddlers leaned in and trapped the ninja's cockhead between their mouths, suckling and slurping eagerly together.  Espio's legs nearly went slack; he cradled each of their heads, caressing soft ears and silky quills as both horny, loving boys worked him over.  "Oh!  Suh-- sweet Chaos!  Yes…  YES!!"  The ninja panted and bucked, watching his slobbered-on shaft slip and slide in the heavenly space between muzzles, leaving no part of his rod unloved.  "Ooooohhhhh…. guh-- good boys!  Suck that cock… take turns… please!"  Obliging happily, the blue and orange duo alternated, one sucking deep as the other licked the side.  A fast, pearly stream of precum began leaking, only to be suckled away as quickly as it came.  The ninja closed his eyes and steadied himself, heart pounding as each male took turns devouring him, then alternating between cock and ball-sack, the bath filling with mixed male moans and wet, slurpy, slappy sex.  

       Reaching across to masturbate Tails as they blew the ninja, Sonic slipped his tongue into the fox's mouth alongside with the chameleon's cock.  The fox closed his eyes and whimpered, suckling lustfully against the hedgehog's tongue, then Espio's cock, then both once more, slowly grinding his ass against Shadow's probing, licky, tongue.  The chameleon's cock popped obscenely from his mouth as he moaned louder, a strand of pre and saliva briefly connecting his chin to Sonic's as Shadow grabbed his tails and hoisted him, sucking the fox's tightening balls from below and finger-fucking his foxhole.  Shadow spat on it obscenely before rimming it clean and repeating the circuit.  Tails twitched and leaked copiously, mirroring Sonic's bicolor pole as it bounced and slapped Shadow's belly, leaving a pool of pre in his navel as the dark hedgehog fucked faster and harder, bouncing the blue rider and his raw, tight, slick boi-pussy.  Ignoring his own cock, Sonic stayed focused on Tails and Espio's, moans muffled he stroked and sucked feverishly.  Scooping the precum from Shadow's belly, Sonic slipped his fingers under Espio's tail, smearing the lizard's hole before twisting in a digit, then a second, fingering the moaning, clenching reptile.  Sonic panted and smiled, catching his breath as Tails took over cocksucking.  Steam now fogged all the windows, the candle's pleasant fragrance mixed with the scent of sex, of sweat, saliva and semen as the foursome careened towards climax.  All felt it, but little was said beyond rumbles, whimpers, moans and grunts, their individual releases feeding into one another.  

       Pitted once more against two, the ninja gave first, his engorged purple prick preparing to spit, his balls drawn too tight to suck anymore as his ring gripped Sonic's fingers like a vise.  "Hnnghfff!  Suh-- Sonic!  Tails!  I'm coming!  I'm coming!!  NNGGGHH!  AAAHHH!  AAAHHH!!"  As his pulsating glans shot thinner but no less generous sprays of hot cum, the servicing duo pressed to intercept, frenching the lizard's glans together, eager tongues and lips lapping the sticky treat as each murred into the other's mouth.  Sonic's digits thrust and wiggled inside the lizard's hole, prolonging orgasm while Tails' fingers tugged and fiddled Shadow's nipples, thumbing the hard, fleshy nubs inside the heaving white ruff.  The sound, sight and taste of Espio's orgasm fired off the fox next, huffing loudly as Sonic jerked him faster and Shadow rimmed haerder.  The panting fox leaned back, cottony chest and reddened face spattered with cum, eyes distant and mouth open as an intense orgasm gripped his face.

       "Yeah!" cheered Sonic, carefully slipping his fingers from the ninja and tugging Shadow's balls as he played with the fox's fluffy chest.  "Blow for us, cutie.  Let Shads feel that ring goin' nuts on his tongue!  He's a big ol' perv, he loves that!"

       "Suh-- Sonic!  Yeah!  Coming… coming!!  UUUhhhnnnggghhh!!" slurred the fox, hugging around the hedgehog's neck as he spurted, his tight, long-pent balls smooshed atop Shadow's chin as he shot hard and fast all over the dark hedgehog's chest and stomach, some splattering the blue hedgehog's belly, cock and thighs.  A loud, rumbling moan vibrated him from below as Shadow locked lips, sucking the vulpine's twitching ring, prolonging his climax.  To the dreamy fox's surprise, Shadow suddenly hoisted him again, opening his panting mouth and directing his still-squirting cock inside, suckling it with lustful relish.  "OOOooohhhhh!  Shadow!" squealed Tails, pushing his cummy curve deeper into the pleasure, the hedgehog moaning and slurping it clean like a treasured delicacy.

       "Sonic!" panted Shadow desperately as the fox's drained bone slipped free, "go fast!"

       "Here we go!" grinned Sonic, leaning back and and jacking himself.  "Come on, you spiky, big-dicked edgehog!  Nut me!  Uhhnnff!  Breed me like a bitch!!"  Licking his lips, he rode hard and fast, using his tireless thighs and flexible hips to bounce, grind, gyrate and pump Shadow's cock.  His athletic buns rose and fell, faster and faster, his wet, pink boi-pussy swallowing pole from tip to balls, over and over.  Shadow gripped Sonic's hips as his muscular thighs and big obsidian jewels slapped urgently.  Sonic's mouth hung agape, drooling dreamily at the deep, thick, extra hard pounding.  "WhooOOAAooAA!  Ah! Ah! Yeah!  Guh-- get that suh--  pussy Shads, GET it!" stammered Sonic, his voice disjointed and bouncing from the force of the fighter's thrusts.  Head pressed between Tails' thighs, the dark hedgehog tensed and roared as he came, fangs bared and ruff heaving as orgasm wracked his body and surged out his cock, blasting jets of thick, hot hedgehog cream deep into Sonic's belly, flooding around his pulsating member until seed squirted out between ring and shaft and oozed down over the vocal shooter's scrunched-up sack.  "D-- Damn, Shadow!" quivered Sonic, sweaty and blushing bright as he reached behind and gently squeezed the breathless fighter's emptied, cum-coated jewels.  "Mmmmm…  I felt all of that, big shooter," he murred, wiggling down to try and keep it all in.  "So much… so hot and squishy, hehe.  You want me to shoot on your chest too?" he patted, his big blue and tan rod leaking and ready.

       Shadow was still rumbling contently as Tails backed up and kissed him.  He smiled softly as the fox played with his quills.  "Much as I love that, you two literally took every drop out of me.  I don't wish to be selfish."  He took Tails' hand and kissed it, then kissed Sonic's before reaching over to twirl Espio's tail tip around his finger.  "Our honored guest has not yet had the pleasure.  What do you say, ninja?  Care to try out a high speed blue drilling?" he winked.

       "I'd… I'd love to," blushed Espio, caressing blue hedgehog's soft neck and shoulders.  "But I too don't wish to be selfish, I feel your boyfriend should go first, Sonic.  You guys have already spoiled me," he chuckled.  "And I love it."

       "Whaddya say, Tails?" winked Sonic, leaning over and kissing the fox warmly.

       "Give that ninja some wild blue yonder," grinned the fox, nuzzling back and fondling affectionately.  "I want to watch him try out my hedgie.  Besides, um…  my butt's kinda sore now, hehe.  I'll be ready again tonight, though!  I'll even wear those panties and things you guys got me," he winked, smooching the hedgehog's nose.

       "Hot damn, it's a deal!" beamed Sonic, squeezing Tails' hands and kissing deeply back.  He rose carefully, letting Shadow's length slowly snake free, leaking more seed at first but managing to hold most of the load as he shook out his quills and stood, his erection brushing Espio's as he took the blushing lizard's hips and pulled him in close.  "Hey, spy guy," he winked, giving the lizard a playful nuzzle, the ninja's gold eyes smiling into his.  "You heard my fox.  How do you wanna do this?"

       "Hmm…"  Espio placed a finger to his chin and held the hedgehog's hip, pressing against Sonic's curved, leaking cock as the pair slowly swayed together.  "As a ninja, I'm big on tradition," he smiled, looking up lovingly into Sonic's eyes.  "And tradition demands a kiss…"  Without another word, he pressed his lips to the hedgehog's mouth and slipped in his talented tongue, suckling and sliding and sparring with the surprised hedgehog's.  Sonic slowly melted into the kiss, his hands roaming over the ninja's sleek sides and cute hips before finding and squeezing his buns anew.  At length, the magenta lizard swayed in Sonic's arms, curling his own around the hedgehog's neck as he nibbled his jawline.  "I hope you don't find my choice too simple, but…"  The lizard stepped over to the edge of the tub where Shadow and Tails were spooning and switched the bubbling jets to maximum.  Turning his back, he looked playfully over his shoulder at Sonic and climbed out, crouching to all fours on the ledge with his toes still in the water.  As the color in his limbs and back shimmered and deepened, he pulled aside his long, elegant tail and curled it around his arm, showing off his tight hole and handsome hanging jewels.  "I want you to take me like this," he huffed, blushing and blowing a kiss to the excited speedster, who caught it and placed it on his lips.  "I want to submit."

       "I'll be your sexecutioner," winked Sonic, the four males sharing a giggle as Sonic stood behind and cock-slapped the lizard's upturned rump.  "All these years I've known you, wishing we could be closer…  I'm actually trembling a bit.  But you look so perfect.  Mmmff..." He blushed and licked his lips, hotdogging his cock inside the presented purple crevice.  "I love you, dude.  You know that.  Are you sure it's not going to get weird if we fuck?  Like, for your crew?"

       "We're a little past that, but no," chuckled Espio, folding his arms and laying his head down as the spooning fox and fighter caressed his neck and shoulders.  "I'm damn proud to be bi.  Especially now, with you three," he smiled, his tail curling around the hedgehog as he wiggled his rump.  "Now fuck me!"

       "Here it comes, ninja boy," grinned Sonic, guiding himself to the chameleon's hole and pushing in.  The tight, slick ring resisted at first, clenching as Espio grunted softly and bit his knuckle, brow furrowed as he relaxed himself.  As his cockhead sunk in all the way, the patient hedgehog paused, letting the chameleon stretch and acclimate more before slowly penetrating deeper.  

       "Ooooff…  are all hedgehogs this thick?" chuckle-grunted the lizard, biting his lip as the hot, stretchy, tingly fullness returned, "or am I--nngghh!--just lucky?  Oooohhh…  Keep going, blue…  Hnnghh..."  He felt more of Sonic's hardened girth snake in, parting his back door even more as his tight, velvety walls made way.  Espio took a deep breath, eyes closed as he wiggled his tush to help, grinding this way and that as his wide-open ass slipped towards the hedgehog's hilt.  "So full… just like Master," he murred, drooling into his wrist, "is it all in?"

       "Just about," huffed Sonic, licking his lips and giving a sudden thrust that plunged him deep past the pinkish-purple pucker, his spongy cockhead bumping hard against the lizard's prostate.  Espio's surprised gasp became loud moans, louder still as the hedgehog smacked his butt cheeks, grinning as he watched them jiggle firmly.  Mouth open and speechless, Espio's eyes watered as the hedgehog's big blue balls bumped the back of his own.  He gripped the chameleon's waist and grinned.  "Now that's all of me, hehehe.  You doing okay?"

       "Fuah!  Fuck!!  UUuuhhhhnnnggghhh!!" blinked the ninja, his face flooding with reds, pinks and purples as his cock jumped and twitched.  "Oh, Chaos…. like Master does it," he panted, swallowing and wiggling as penetrative pleasure ricocheted through his body.  "Uhhnn!!  I can feel you… every curve, every throb," he murred, slipping a hand down to stroke himself.  "Please!  Suh… Sonic… fuck me!"

       "So tight and warm," nodded Sonic, pulling back and thrusting steadily.  "Not like the stereotypes at all… you've got a great pussy," he panted, smacking the lizard's ass again and squeezing his hips.  "Oh, yeah…  Secret's out now, scaly.  We're all gonna have to fuck you!"

       "Gods, yesssss," hissed Espio, moaning and curling his tail around Sonic's waist, pulling at his hips as he happily jacked faster.  

       Sonic concentrated, wagging as he fucked faster, his balls tapping the back of the lizard's as he bore down and bashed, working and wrecking the wonderfully hot, wet, velvety boi-cunt.  "Ohhhhh… fffuck!  Essspio!" he panted, brow dripping sweat on the chameleon's bouncing, slapping buns, his cock leaking intensely as his eyes drew to lusty slits.  "Gonna breed you, breed you good!"  Grabbing a hip and a shoulder in each hand, he upped his speed even more, filling the bath the the sound of rhythmic ass-slapping as the spooning spectators enjoyed the show.  The dark hedgehog surreptitiously popped his tip into Tails' squishy foxhole, making him blush, giggle and wiggle back as they watched the whirring blue and purple pair.  Sonic's heart raced.  The chameleon was so cute, so aroused, so verbal, his compact frame taking it all so eagerly.  Sonic felt his time draw up rapidly.  "Uhhhnnn!! Ohhhhh… finally fucking you, Espio…  so hot… I wanna shoot inside you, sweet scaly," pleaded Sonic, gripping the ninja's hips for the furious home stretch.  Thighs clapped legs, belly bumped buns and balls bounced balls as hedgehog's hips went woodpecker fast.  

       "Mmmff!  Nuhhh! Yesss… yes… YESSS!" quaked the chameleon, his slender hips trying in vain to keep up with the hedgehog's mad thrusts.  "Come inside me!  I want it!  I-- Ah! Ah!! AAAHH!!"  Rapidly fisting his cock, the lizard tugged with his tail, toes curling and uncurling as orgasm came again like an ocean swell, building and building, rising and breaking, his raw, battered, stretched fuck-hole twitching tight around the blurred azure piston.  "Sonic!  HNNGGH!!!"

       "Oh, sexy scaly…  I'm… I'm there too!!  Huh!  Here I come!!"  Gripping hips, Sonic howled and bashed himself balls deep into the ninja a few final times, his engorged cock practically jumping as it unleashed, creaming the climaxing chameleon with hot, thick, sticky jets of seed.  "AAAAHH!  Huahhhh!  Huahhhh… huuhhhh… mmmmmff…"  As the panting blue blur downshifted his hips, the lizard's squeezing, spasming boi-cunt coaxed out every last drop, the brimming lizard still moaning copiously after having shot his own load on the floor, as well as his belly, chest and chin.  He could feel the hedgehog's hot fluid pool inside him, his partner's cock still throbbing long after there was nothing left to shoot.  Shadow kissed the top of Tails' head and squeezed as they watched the others catch their breath.  It was some time before anyone spoke, the sweaty, interlocked pairs caressing contently over the hot tub's soft, sparkly hiss.

       "Mmmmm…. sweet heavens, Sonic," murred the ninja, reaching underneath himself to caress the hedgehog's emptied balls cuddled against his own, slowly wiggling his raw, skewered ring over the squishy hilt.  Laying his cheek dreamily on his arms, he hugged the hedgehog tight with his tail, keeping him inside for as long as possible.  "Thank you…"

       "Feel closer to me now?" winked Sonic, wiping his brow as the lizard nodded contentedly, taking soft caresses from the two spooners.  He lifted the chameleon's tail and draped it over his shoulder, giving the soft appendage a loving smooch.  As he caressed the chameleon's back, the tail hugged back.  "And the weekend's only just starting," he grinned, blowing kisses to Tails and Shadow.  

       "I don't know how it could get any better," murred Tails, flushed and warm as he felt Shadow's spongy, thick shaft throb in agreement against his ring.  As the foursome savored the reverie, footsteps crunched softly outside, growing louder until they noticed it over the whoosh of the tub.  Ears twitched and heads turned as a familiar face popped into the bottom corner of the picture window.

       "Sup, bitches!" grinned Knuckles, wiping the glass and peering in.  "Doesn't anyone answer the door these days?"

       "Hey, red rocks!  You made it!" beamed Sonic, waving as he stayed buried the ninja, who gasped and hid his face with one of Tails' tails.  "You owe me fifty rings, Espio totally bottomed first, hehe."

       "C-commander!" stammered Espio, clenching around Sonic as the hedgehog giggled and playfully smacked his rump.  "I wasn't expecting any others, I--  it's not what you think!"

       Knuckled roared with laughter, his face nearly dipping out of view.  "It's not?  Hey, somebody check my eyes, because I thought I saw our ninja fam having a balls-deep good time," he cried, wiping a tear and shaking his head.  "Relaaaaax, dude.  The ladies won't care.  Heck, even I take the D once in a while.  Anyways, speaking of sausage, I brought tons of pizza from last night and a buttload of drinks.  Aaaaaand lookit what else I brought!"  A second face leaned in, peering shyly through foggy glass slats.  

       "Silver?" blinked Tails, leaning up to get a better look.  The fox gasped, his eyes going as wide as his smile.  "Silver!  You finally came!" he beamed as Shadow and Sonic waved, the host blowing him a gentle kiss.  Silver blushed and smiled, leaning bashfully against Knuckles.  "Oh, I want to show Silver around!  Can I, Shadow?  Please!?"

       "It's ‘may' I Shadow, and yes, you may," he nuzzled, kissing the fox's cheek as he gently slid out.  "But spruce up first and go easy on him.  We do want him to come back, after all."

       "H-Hello Tails, it's nice to--er--see you again, hehe.  All of you," smiled Silver, peering in curiously with fingers to lip as Knuckles patted his back.  "Goodness!  You always told me your weekends up here were for strategic planning sessions, Shadow.  This looks like more like a private retreat," he chuckled.

       "Can't it be both?" winked the dark hedgehog, idly playing with the fox's tail tips as the latter rose and blew Silver a kiss before running to the shower.  "My home is yours, Silver.  I'm very glad you came.  You too, Knux.  I hope you intend to stay.  But be warned, you'll probably be spoiled rotten, as Espio put it," he grinned, booping the lizard's horn as Espio reared up and spooned with Sonic, who reached around and caressed the lizard's smooth belly and softening cock.

       "I'd… I'd love to!" wagged Silver, hands to chest ruff as he bit his lip and nodded excitedly.  

       "Good, because we're homeless this weekend," snickered Knuckles, reaching down for his duffel bag.  "Blaze, Amy, Tangle, Tikal and a bunch of the others booted us for some kind of gals-only healing celebration thing.  Well, we weren't booted really, just told we'd be an embarrassment.  No idea why they kept Buddy.  Probably for sacrifice," he chuckled, patting Silver's rump.  "Anyways, thanks for having us, Shads.  Come on Silv, help me carry stuff.  You can play with all the nice wieners after-- whoa!  Dude, is that all that yours?  Nice!" laughed the echidna, glancing below Silver's torso.  Looking down himself, the hedgehog gasped and blushed harder, slapping his hands over his face before getting dragged from view.


Epilogue.

       "Your privacy concerns are duly noted, Mr. Infinite," coaxed Omega, the towering robot mechanically scrubbing the rumpled jackal's wet, sudsy chest with a washcloth.  "But no others are present in this wing and bathing nude is optimal.  I assure you I have no prurient interests.  Here.  Apply this combination of botanicals.  They are alleged to restore your silky shine.  Also they smell nice."

       "Fine," grumbled the jackal, scowling in the oversize institutional tub as the robot squeezed shampoo on his hands.  As he started to work it into his long locks, the jackal cocked an eye at the metallic minder methodically scrubbing his back.  "Look, it's been a week now.  Must you actually bathe me?  I'm a prisoner, not a cripple!"

       Omega paused for a moment, suds dripping from his fingers as he processed.  "Invalid term applied.  You mean disabled or limited mobility.  You sustained injuries in combat.  Also my data files say desert jackals take a dim view of bathing.  I was concerned you might--"

       "Look robot, I said it before!  DON'T believe whatever rubbish you've heard about us!  Go on, keep scrubbing!  See if I care!  It…  it feels kind of nice, actually," huffed Infinite, lathering his long hair as the robot resumed washing.  The perturbed jackal shampooed in silence, then dipped below the water to rinse.  He resurfaced and carefully squeezed out his locks.  "You know, you're awfully--er--attentive for someone I nearly destroyed in the first war.  I half expected you to pummel me by now.  What's wrong with you!?"

       "I did despise you, that is correct," nodded the robot, scrubbing lower.  "But the vengeance protocols became burdensome.  They overrode other mission priorities and injected unwanted bias.  My work suffered as a result.  For example, I nearly destroyed a tourist helicopter.  My AI had misidentified it as a hostile drone.  No one was seriously injured.  But Shadow did order me to seek counseling."

       "Pfft!  He's a control freak, of course he did," griped Infinite, letting the robot hoist his arm and wash his pit.  "I would have given you a medal for blowing them up.  And counseling… feh.  I've already had enough of those insipid clowns.  Did it help you?"

       "It did not," offered Omega, washing the jackal's other arm.  "She asked about my parentage.  I told her I am a unique construct with an enhanced self-learning autonomous AI.  She queried my sexual preferences.  I told her I find chrome attractive.  She wished to know my feelings on mortality.  I told her I am functionally immortal provided my backups are not destroyed.  She inquired about my faith.  I told her I had full confidence in my mission capabilities.  She corrected to mean religious faith.  I informed her that deities are not known to exist, however aliens and extraplanar beings have at times represented themselves as gods or been misidentified as such.  She voiced skepticism at my response.  I told her I had beaten several of them in combat and G.U.N. would readily verify my unclassified victories.  She declined and asked me to role play my feelings.  I said the room represented pointless conjecture and the glass door behind us represented a gateway to personal freedom.  She directed me to show, not tell.  So I smashed through the door and left.  The bill was very expensive."

       Infinite clutched his stomach and roared with laughter, toes curling and splashing with joy as the robot waited for him to hold still.  "Ah, a man after my own heart.  Er, robot, I mean," he chortled, blushing slightly as his tail was hoisted and rump scrubbed before the robot proceeded to his thighs.  "But… but if what she offered was useless, then how did you change?"

       "Simple.  I asked G.U.N.'s lead technologist to deactivate my vengeance protocol," nodded Omega, scrubbing the jackal's shins.  "I feel much better now.  I no longer harbor an irrational impulse to destroy you or others who have wronged me."

       "Lucky us," scoffed the jackal, rinsing his face.  He winced and hissed as the washcloth brushed over his genitals.  "Ow."

       "My apologies," paused Omega.  "Are you still experiencing testicular discomfort?  I understand Mr. Prower clobbered--"

       "They're fine, they're fine, stop touching!" shooed Infinite, taking the cloth and gingerly washing himself.  Once he had finished and rinsed, the jackal stood and exited the tub, shaking the water from his head, torso, rump and tail as Omega shielded himself from the spray with a towel before handing it to him.

       "You are visually much improved," nodded Omega, helping the jackal towel off.  "Surely you must feel better as well."

       "Hnnff.  A little," he frowned, pensively drying his long, silky hair.  "It's lonely here.  I'm glad I have you, robot.  I must be going crazy, I actually want to talk to Shadow again, of all things," he scowled, spitting fur from his lips.  "So, Omega.  That deleted vengeance--"

       "Deactivated," he corrected. raising a finger.

       "Whatever, deactivated," waved the jackal, drying his crotch, "you don't feel… like less of a warrior now?"  

       Omega shook his head.  "I do not."  He picked up a blow dryer and plugged it into his arm, speaking louder as he dried the jackal's coat.  "If anything, I am more effective because I focus on victory, not vengeance."

       "Hmph!  If only it were that easy for rest of us," replied Infinite, toweling his chest, belly and butt.  

       "It is," offered Omega, pausing the dryer.  "Organic brains have a phenomenal capacity to change their own configuration.  They emote, but they can also mitigate how they feel.  How much and for how long.  They can even forgive and forget without reprogramming.  An enviable feature.  Here.  Put this on," he nodded, holding up a thick white bathrobe.

       "I do not end my grudges lightly… if ever," squinted Infinite, slipping on the robe and checking his hair in the foggy mirror.

       "Then you have allowed the targets of your vengeance to define you," replied the robot, standing behind the jackal and blowing his hair.  "Were I organic, I would not give them such a strategic advantage.  Nor would I spend my finite lifespan living unhappily."  

       The damp jackal stared in the mirror at the philosophizing robot.  "But… what if I'm not ready to let go?  Or I just don't WANT to!?  I'm still angry inside, Omega.  Very, very angry!  About a lot of things."

       "That is natural.  And it will take time to overcome," nodded Omega, handing a brush to Infinite.  Pressing a small panel on his chest, the robot played soft classical music as the jackal brushed his hair, chest ruff and tail.  "If I may make a recommendation: jettison your vengeance, as I did.  Being vengeful did not reap the benefits I had calculated.  Shadow went through very much the same process.  He knows it is not easy.  And he wants to help you."

       "You mean help me into his bed," muttered Infinite, brushing roughly.  "Nothing is free, robot.  I got off easy because HE wants a… a pet!  He literally told me as much.  And then we punched each other.  At least he was honest, I suppose."  The jackal squinted, pointing at tiny lights blinking on the robot's chest.  "Is he listening to us?  He is, isn't he?  Well listen up, you sad old cock gobbler!  You want a pet?  You want me to bend over and spread my cheeks for you!?  The only way THAT'S gonna happen is if--"

       "Shadow cannot hear us," interrupted Omega, pointing to the light.  "That's just the kitchen.  They will close in T-minus thirty minutes.  If you still desire pizza, so state and identify your toppings.  The limit is three."

       "Uh… sure," sighed the jackal, finger and shoulders drooping as the robot hung the towel to dry.  "Pepperoni, I guess.  No wait," he thought, finger to chin.  "Pineapple and ham.  With anchovies."

       "I have relayed your order," nodded Omega, who turned back to his charge.  "I must now escort you back to your quarters.  Entertainment options include games, videos and… please wait."  The robot paused, fingers to the side of his head.  "The cook is responding.  He is displeased with your request.  He says it is nauseating.  He will have to walk all the way to the storage annex to locate anchovies.  And pineapple.  He will do it, but says you are evil."

       "He… he did?" blinked the jackal, a small smile brightening his face as he looked up at Omega.  "Thanks, robot.  That means a lot to me."  The jackal hugged the hulking metal sentinel, who gently hugged back.
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