— Capital District —

  After exploring the museum, all Amy could do was take a deep sigh of relief—a relaxing day, unlike yesterday, when they immediately started with a rescue mission. Today was indeed a slow day, and although Sonic doesn’t like the word “slow”, it’s something that they definitely needed.

  "At least I remember my history now. It's not as if I truly forgot; it was just lodged deep in my mind. I had to dig that knowledge out like some files at work." Woofa repeatedly taps her head, knowing how similar her brain functions are compared to when she's at work.

  Sonic amusingly rolls his eyes, thinking of such comparisons with her. “Lanolin if she worked for a nine-to-five job.” He tries to contain his snickering, but fails to do so, finding her words amusing. “You both drink coffee like it’s water, and you complain about your coworkers.”

  “NOW WHO TOLD YOU ALL ABOUT WHAT I DO!?”

  “That professional dumbass named Tricky.”

  “OH, OF COURSE…!!! Why does Solid even have a step-brother like him…?” She complains, already getting tired of the porcupine’s antics. “He’s basically like a brother to me… except when it’s an annoying one. Like, should I be glad that I don’t have an annoying sibling or not? Because on one end, if I had one, I would be in an all-out war against them. While on the other end, I would adapt with an annoying sibling and-”

  “Woofa, I think it’s time to calm down.” Politely saying, as Tails shushes her. “I don’t have any siblings, and I understand your situation with… your best friend’s stepbrother. But, I think we already know how you feel anyway.”

  Groans… The dog looks down with exhaustion, hinting at how long their relationship has really been. “You don’t understand! Solid is like your calm friend who listens to you, while Tricky is like that one friend who, if one day they don’t show up, will be one of the most relaxing days of your entire life. I know we support each other, but-”

  “Everyone has their own types of relations. I mean, some people really dislike each other. But you gotta be positive for the most part, that’s what I learned from my friends right here.” Amy happily puts a reassuring hand on her shoulder, showing off her usual nature. “Don’t let that porcupine get you. You know how he is with that attitude.”

  “Woofa, we need to talk!” The CEO says, clearly upset about her. “You know, this is the second time I have to deal with this crap about you!”

  She stammers, clearly unsure what she even wants with her. “W-W-What do you mean, ma’am? I was doing my work per usual! It wasn’t like-”

  Beep. “You know, miss, I know I work here, but this place is a MESS! Almost all of my co-workers have been some of the worst since I started. On the outside, they’re nice, but on the flip side, they’re one of the worst to talk to! They’re basically propaganda! Never trust-” Beep.

  “You see what I mean, mutt?” The cougar darts the pen onto Woofa’s forehead, causing her to get hit. “I know I care about others, and I’ll have a meeting with them for sure, but no need to say allat to our customers!”

  Woofa mumbles, clearly in an awkward situation, though, for the sake of clarification… “... Who sent you this… voice recording…?”

  “... Trick-”

  “THAT PORCUPINE, I SWEAR TO… GOD!!!”

  “... Yeah, whether or not he’s a pain in the ass, he’s still Solid’s brother, so…” Ultimately, she lets the feeling go away, treating their relationship like an entire comedy skit. “... Tricky, if you’re hearing this, shut up.”

  The team laughs with her, taking in the joke of their fellow Havener friend. “I bet that porcupine is gonna be VERY angry once you tell him to shut up. However, he’s too busy watching that basketball game with Knux, probably enjoying his time winning bets.” Sonic continues to snicker, already envisioning an argument between the two about winning and losing.

  “Those two…” Tails already envisions the comparison between the Blue Blur and the porcupine. “Knuckles is going to hate Tricky more than you, Sonic.”

  “Looks like someone’s taking my position.” Hilariously nudging his elbow at Tails’s arm to signal their leave. “Anyways, it was fun in the museum, I’m glad that I enjoyed it.” He casually smirks at Amy, who looks satisfied with their morning before looking away. “We’re gonna try to find any hidden bases around this district, alright?! We’ll catch each other soon!” The two boys immediately flash away, leaving the two girls here.

  Amy accepts their leave, satisfied with today’s activities involving the museum. “Make sure you don’t forget about your promise!” And at that moment, Sonic immediately rushes back and grabs some Lunars from Woofa before finally leaving with Tails. “Some things never change, and I’m glad that I always know what he likes, even if a simple museum would make him bored initially.” She giggles alongside her Havener friend, both starting to enjoy their time together. “Wanna continue exploring the museum?”

  Out of curiosity, Woofa thinks about other places to visit besides the museum. “We can see the City Hall. It’s open. It’s the weekends… which is weird because it’s typically closed, but they made a rare announcement that it’s open today. Maybe the mayor is there…? We could see her, you know.”

  And for Amy’s typical reaction, she unanimously agrees, sticking to what Woofa wants to do. “Sure thing! Just feeling the need to explore such places, and hey, we’re DEFINITELY meeting the mayor.” Immediately afterwards, she holds her hand and drags her to the city hall, where the dog almost stumbles from the pull, but laughs it off due to her energetic nature. “I feel like Sonic right now, and I LOVE it!”

  — City Hall (Capital District) —

  Inside the city hall, everything is antique and remains timeless, unlike the city around this capital district, which has a modern taste. There are numerous historical items and a large amount of space, including dedicated rooms for the local government, as well as other miscellaneous areas. Besides the fact that it’s now the start of Spring Break and tourism has peaked, leaving the place packed, it’s enough for the two girls to explore this place.

  “Although it’s called the Capital District, this city is not the capital of this state. It used to be, but due to the overpopulation of this entire city, the government decided to relocate to a more centrally placed position. Today’s capital city is less susceptible to overpopulation, along with more representation of the other cities compared to Haven City alone.” Woofa happily runs alongside Amy, going past the crowd in an attempt to meet the mayor. “God, that was a lot to unpack there.”

  “What an interesting fact, Woofa! Tails would love to hear such trivia, though we’re here to see the mayor, if we’re able to.” The hedgehog follows her dog friend, since she knows what the places' interiors and pathways lead to. She does have more questions regarding the mayor. “Speaking of the mayor, do you know who she is?”

  Woofa remains thoughtful for a moment, wondering how to describe the mayor. “Well… her name is Ism the Llama. She’s young for a mayor who’s running a huge city, approximately around her early thirties.”

  Bump!

  “Sorry, sir!” She quickly apologizes after bumping into someone, but she continues to run through the city hall. “... Never been this crowded for a place like this. What gives?” Inquiring about the last time it was crowded was mainly for important or unique days. Yet, today was different, because it was just a regular weekend, nothing too out of the ordinary. “Eh, we’ll understand the problem later. Other than that, that’s the mayor for you.”

  Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

  Eventually, the two finally make their way to the press conference, where they finally make their presence known to the mayor’s eyes. Although the reporters and some tourists cover most of the mayor’s sights, it’s both surprising and unsurprising that the mayor instantly calls out their names. For one, it’s surprising how the mayor instantly knows their appearance. Yet, it’s also unsurprising because they were in the center of attention from the media yesterday, so… “Oh! Oh! The heroes from yesterday, Amy and Woofa!” Ism exclaims, directing the reporters’ gaze and cameras to them, where they’re immediately met with a barrage of attention. “Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! You two!!!!” The mayor calls them out, “Run towards me!”

  Listening to her words, they immediately rushed towards her, running past the reporters and the tourists who were previously in close contact with the two. When the three finally come together, they instantly retreat to the offices to stay out of the public eye, where they finally and foremost greet each other.

  “Welcome, welcome! Happily and foremost grateful to meet you two!” The Llama happily shakes hands with them, smiling with such content after hearing the news about what had happened last night. “I am Mayor Ism, a.k.a. Ism the Llama, a.k.a. I have no more a.k.a.’s—Back on topic… I’m astonished to see you two here. You two were ama-ZING when dealing with Downtown District! Not only were you two and your friends dedicated to saving this world, but the fact that you had prevented such a costly disaster, I’m honored by your presence.”

  The two friends looked at each other and immediately squealed with excitement, both holding hands and cheering as they continuously jumped uncontrollably. “It is a PLEASURE to help your city out, big time!” Amy excitedly exclaims, looking at Woofa with the same feeling. “You feel excited?!”

  “Same! Never in my entire life have I been recognized from a position like hers!” They continue to cheer on together; the mayor reacting with happiness etched on her face. “We’re thankful for our contributions to our cause. Everyone’s lives are more important than ours, and we take full credibility in what we did to save this city. ” The dog replies, but can’t help but stay excited. Yet, it doesn’t matter because the mayor understands their emotions will always get such a response.

  “You two are something else…”

  In the end, the mayor directs them out of the office and to a private area. The girls are given a direct and calm tour of the non-public area, accompanied by a handful of bodyguards to prevent anyone from disturbing them. “I wanted your friends to be here, but you two are good enough for now.”

  “Welcome to the city hall, hope you enjoy the grand tour I’ll be providing to you exclusively. Only the two of you and some government working officials are allowed here. So, make yourself lucky.” She shows off the private side of the city hall, letting the two girls be astonished by the interior design.

  What they’re shown is essentially the non-public areas of the building, which are similar to the public areas, albeit with better cleanliness and a bit more luxurious items. “I-Is this your first time seeing someone in this area that doesn’t work for the government?” Woofa nervously questions, although in awe about the scenery, she’s nervous about the fact that they’re allowed in a private area.

  Giggles. “Yes, indeed. It honestly feels weird seeing random civilians in a private area, especially when they’re completely off limits. I know some people mention that rumors of dark conspiracies here, but trust me, I explored everywhere, and nothing out of the ordinary.” Ism raises her hands in defense, clearly understanding their feelings, especially how Woofa feels.

  Amy does put a reassuring hand on her friend’s shoulder, hoping she’ll remain calm for the moment. “It’s alright, Woofa. I’ve been to some places that make me anxious, but this place is a wonderful place to explore, and it’s our chance to discover such fascinating content inside. At the same time, this is our only opportunity to explore a private area!” Continuing to pat her shoulder until her friend feels comfortable enough. “So… Come on, now! Let’s make this the time of our lives!”

  The more they continued to explore the private areas, the more the interiors became more beautiful and lavish. It’s probably the reason why it has no public access, as it literally has a restaurant, a bowling alley, and a swimming pool inside. “NO WAY!!!” The two friends exclaimed, being immediately invested in this area. “May I!? May I!? May I!?”

  While the mayor had slight hesitation, she ultimately let it slide, giving the girls some time to have their fun. “Go ahead! Like I said earlier, you two deserve it.” Being pleased by their excitement, she watches them get ready for whatever they do there. “... I suppose I’ll join as well. It’s best to take some form of relaxation after dealing with all those press conferences, media, and running the city. You know how I feel, right?”

  After spending some time having fun, they ultimately relax at the indoor pool, relieving the stress of their missions so far, despite it only being two days of battles. With the three relaxing on the water, along with the scenery around them, the two are lucky that they have met the mayor. So far, they have enjoyed the private area, still wishing the rest of the team were here. For now, they’re having the most casual conversation.

  “So… Woofa. How’s the water?” Amy teasingly splashes some water at Woofa; in response, the dog also splashes water at her.

  “Hmm… calm and nice. I haven’t been in a pool for a few weeks now, so I might as well make it consistent whenever it’s the weekend.” She lowers her face to the water level, where only her eyes and nose are visible.

  The hedgehog leans against the edge, relaxing in the moment. “You ever think the boys would like to come here for themselves, specifically the pool–well, Sonic wouldn’t swim, but I’ll make up for it!” She devises an evil plan for him, hoping to lure him to the pool.

  “Really? Sonic doesn’t know how to swim?” Woofa’s eyes showed immediate and genuine shock, already lifting her head above the water. “Tricky would definitely love pools; he's a pretty great swimmer, that’s all you need to know for him. Solid…” Sighs… “... He doesn’t know how to swim. I’m pretty sure he and Sonic would never want to be on a pool…”

  “Weird… because Sonic had told me about the way Solid looks. He had said that your orange furball had a similar look to him. So for him not to swim as well… is coincidental??? I’m no Tails, but I think it’s a sign of fate! They’re just meant to be with each other and be friends.” A reassuring smile grows on her face, hoping Solid is just a normal hedgehog with no relation to Mobius.

  Woofa instead takes a sigh, just leaving her wondering. “I mean… I don’t mind if he’s somehow, someway related to Sonic; I’ll still be his best friend, but that’ll be a revelation. The fact that he’s related to someone not from this world is crazy.” She looks up at the ceiling, staring at the artificial lights flickering above her. “... I don’t know, I just hope life will be the same after we deal with the stuff and Eggman… and the Master Emerald. And I hope it’ll never greatly affect us, for the most part.”

  “You two still having fun there?!” The mayor resumes her swimming, keeping afloat on her back as she looks at the two, having a casual conversation. “How do you feel so far about this place?”

  Without a slight or bare hesitation, Amy instantly answers her question. “Fantastic! Still wish the rest were here, though. But I’m having a FUN time with my friend right here.” She puts her arm around the dog’s shoulders, showing off their awkward yet friendly dynamic. “Is there something else you wanted us to see, Mayor Ism?”

  “Ha-Ha, you bet!” Ism gradually gets out of the pool, wet from the water, but grabs a towel to dry her fur. “Just one more thing—err… room or area to see for you two.”

  The two look at each other, both wondering what the mayor wants to show them. It could be a secret, mysterious area that no one has even heard of; even those with access to the area are unaware of its existence. Being the two curious friends currently in the pool, they both agree to join in on the fun. “One more, Woofa?”

  “Let’s finish this together.”

  Once they’re all dried up and back to their normal clothes, the two follow the mayor for one last area to explore, not thinking much about it. All they’re having is a clean and casual conversation, mostly talking about friends or the city hall in general. They have taken a keen liking to this place, still enjoying the stylized antique texture. Additionally, the secret area, with pools or restaurants, was enough to keep them satisfied and entertained. When they reach the elevator, as the door opens, the interior of the elevator continues the trend of an antique look, making this city hall truly spectacular.

  “So… any hints of what this area may look like?” Amy curiously looks at the mayor, waiting for a response.

  “Well, it’s a HUGE area. Definitely FAR better than what it’s like up there and probably on this floor. But… I do have one thing for you two…” Ism takes out some blindfolds for them, clearly meant for a- “It’s a surprise! And to actually see or witness it yourself…” She kindly offers them the blindfolds. “You get the idea.”

  Although Amy and Woofa share some skepticism, Ism is trustworthy enough to be respected, so without any hesitation, they immediately put it on, where darkness consumes their entire point of view. “Whoa… this feels… weird.” Woofa remarks that she hasn’t experienced being blindfolded like this before. “Amy, I’m going to hold onto your hand. Is that fine?”

  “You’re fine, Woofa. Just… be careful where we’re going; at least the mayor is going to direct us to this area we’re in.” Amy smiles, hoping to keep their hopes up while the mayor stands right behind them for support.

  Ding!

  Once the door opens, Ism leads the two out of the area, where they can hear the sudden change in the floor, transitioning from a traditional clay tile to a more metallic one. It’s something to consider, especially when the business in this area remains hectic. One thing that suddenly changed is the atmosphere, as if something dark is looming around this mysterious area. “Forgot to tell you, I lied when I said a few workers for the city hall or the government have access to this area. I’m the only one who actually has access. Lucky me…” Still, their point of view remains dark to their eyes before the mayor finally pulls off the blindfolds.

  “Welcome to the base!”

  “... Eggman’s base.”

  “You… TRAITOR!” Amy tries to punch the mayor, but she’s quickly handcuffed and overpowered by the recruiters surrounding her and Woofa. “LET US GO…! LET US GO!!!”

  “I’m afraid not, clumsy hedgehog. The doctor made a deal with me; I was overwhelmed by running the city, handling tasks, and other responsibilities. Here, there, where, when—ugh… Sometimes, I want to cut them corners. But… It’s fascinating, because a few new implementations that the city is undertaking are actually made by him himself.” Ism casually walks right past them, where Amy tries to fight, but the mayor counterattacks with a swat to her arm. “Useless… I expected more from that strength of yours. Especially when you wield a strong… Pike… Pike… Hammer?”

  “Piko Piko-”

  “Shut up, I never asked you to speak.”

  Looking stunned, yet helpless, Amy shuts herself down, her eyes cast down in disappointment, almost like she’s giving up. For Woofa, she can’t help but shed a few tears, being easily baited to the spot. “... Why…? … Why did you have to…?”

  “It’s an alliance… sorry.” Yet her voice never sounded apologetic, once. “Life is full of traitors; it’s the reality. Expect the unexpected, you two.” She proceeds to turn around and look at the reactor, containing the Master Emerald’s energy, just like last time. “Not only did you guys cause destruction, but you also destroyed one of our base reactors, thus slowing our progress down…” Looking back at them again, she forcedly lifted Amy’s head to look at her as she said loud and clear in front of their faces. “... And if you think that you two can shut down this reactor in front of my eyes—oh BOY, I’ll make sure you’ll get the BEST AMOUNT OF PUNISHMENT TO YOU TWO AS POSSIBLE!!!”

  Snap!

  “RECRUITERS!!! Take those two to the cell! Expect nothing but to let them rot to death!”

  “NO…! LET US GO!!!” Woofa struggles against the handcuffs, trying to fight the recruiter away. “Amy! Don’t give up!” She continues to fight, but they’re too strong to handle. Worst of all, Amy has lost her optimism.

  “Amy…!”

  “AMY!!!”