Sonic the Hedgehog

Starlight City

Originally, Sonic thought it not possible for something to be more agonizing than to have his feet planted on the wings of the Tornado. However, compared to this lengthy car ride, the miserably bored hedgehog would give all the chili dogs in the world to take flight once more. At least there, the scenery was gorgeous and the plane moved at a moderately decent pace. Inside the cramped five-seater, all that could be seen through the majority of the trip was the endless nothingness of Ice Cap's weather.

That was seven hours ago. Since then, Tails and Amy have been in a deep sleep, with both of their heads laying on Sonic's uncomfortable shoulders for support. It's not as if he called shotgun before getting in. The fact is, he did, but Knuckles didn't understand the phrase and was less than willing to cooperate with what he described as: "Silly Mobian Customs." The relaxed echidna lays back in his seat, his legs crossed and laying on the dashboard of the vehicle. James has barely said a word the entire trip. He must be used to long, relaxing drives like these. Now that Sonic thinks of it, he's never seen a human be this kind to a Mobian before.

Outside, the snow has long since vanished. Now all Sonic sees are grassy fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. Over the horizon, the sun begins finally setting, giving an orange tint across this side of the planet. The smiling war hero tries to think of the sight as a simple view, and not as a cruel reminder of what he will lose if he doesn't get his act together.

"We're here," James announces, making Knuckles sit forward and stirring Amy out of her slumber.

Finally. Sonic thinks as he looks through the front dashboard window. I have no idea how people can put up with such slow transportation.

Up ahead on the road is a giant gate connected to a brick barrier that extends from both sides and wraps all around the perimeter of the large city. In front of the large, silver gate is a sign with bright, glowing red and yellow text that reads proudly: Welcome to Starlight City!

Upon approaching the gate, it automatically opens with the sensors detecting the registered, official vehicle. Amy, still a little groggy, reaches past Sonic and shakes a knocked-out Tails until he wakes up, a little dazed.

"We're here," she explains before turning to her window to get a look at the wonderous city.

Greeting the pair at the entrance is a luxurious, golden water fountain that sprays crystal clear water into the small, surrounding pool around it where many coins lay. It's in the center of a slightly busy town square, but thankfully, nowhere near as active as Grand Metropolis. All around are restaurants, shopping centers, attractions, and many more. Amy now sees why this is such a hot spot for many tourists. She chose her place of residence wrong. Maybe this insane adventure was all some strange twist of fate to teach her what she's been missing all her life. Her eyes dazzle at the surrounding locations. She wonders where the residential areas are.

"This is it," James yawns as he gently parks his car on the side of the street next to a bank. "This is as far as 'ol James will go. I should probably be headin' back before it gets too late."

"Thank you so much for the ride, James!!" Amy says with happy gratitude, getting a warm smile from the old man.

"It was a pleasure, sweetheart. Y'all stay safe now."

"Thanks again!" Tails waves as he opens his door in unison with Amy and starts to get out.

"I will remember your aid, stranger," Knuckles nods as he too begins making his exit.

Sonic can feel the muscles in his legs aching for any sort of movement. He smiles as he starts scooting towards where got out to exit through his door.

"Hey, Sonic?"

Sonic stops, turning to the old man with interest in what he has to say.

"I know it ain't my place makin' requests from the war hero and all, but... just win, okay?" he asks, his ancient, wise eyes staring into Sonic's. "I don't know if, or how, but maybe if you beat him this time... our species can find peace? And not just all that legal crap. I mean REAL peace. Real harmony."

Without hesitation, Sonic raises a thumbs up and grins.

"You got nothing to worry about, James," he says, slightly surprising the elderly man with his bold attitude. "It'll all work out somehow. I promise."

Not in need of anything more, James smiles and gives a confident nod of his own. Sonic makes his way out of the vehicle, lands on the bright sidewalk, and closes the car door. As he stretches and his friends gather around to plan their next move, he watches as James's car starts up, reverses, and gradually makes its long drive back to Ice Cap.

...