Maria's Cake

Maria's Cake

By Krissie

 “This is going to haunt me,” Shadow thought as he stared at the burnt yet still somehow soupy mess Maria had placed before him. His ears were still ringing from the fire alarms that the scientists struggled to turn off for 20 minutes. He offered to help, but he wasn’t allowed access to any of the security systems. He was, however, allowed, to be presented with what looked like a monster from one of Maria’s video games.

Maria beamed nervously. “It’s a cake.” Her confidence was faulting and Shadow felt a tug at his heart strings. 

“It looks great!” He gave her a thumbs up. Maria beamed brightly with job. Shadow had no clue what a cake was. But if Maria was pleased, he would be too. “So what do you do with it?” Shadow asked as Maria was pulling plates down from the small cabinet.

Maria froze as she stared at Shadow in disbelief. Shadow might look like a teenager, but he was only 3 years old. 

“You eat it!” Maria told him with a sweet smile. “Cake is a treat you make for special occasions and holidays.”

Shadow nodded as Maria cut a slice of the cake. “What’s the occasion?” There was nothing listed on his calendar when he woke up this morning.

“It’s your birthday, silly!” Maria ruffled his quills. Shadow leaning back, fighting the urge to hiss. Maria knew he hated having his quills messed with. She giggled as she sat him down at the kitchen table and placed the slice in front of him. She sang loudly as she gripped him by the shoulders and swayed him with her. Shadow chuckled at this. He still wasn’t sure what was going on, but if Maria was happy, he didn’t mind.

“Normally you blow out candles, but since we don’t have those, just close your eyes and make a wish.”

Shadow’s only wish was for Maria to be happy and healthy. He didn’t need anything else. He turned to Maria with a smile. “Now what?”

“Now you eat it!” Maria took a spoonful and held it up to him. “Say Ah…” 

Shadow took the spoon from her gently. He stared at the bite of cake. It looked gross. Smelt awful. He didn’t want it anywhere inside his body. But Maria would be sad if he didn’t. A few bites wouldn’t hurt, right?

Welp.

It tasted worse than it looked and smelt combined. Shadow chewed and forced himself to swallow. 

“Is it good?” Maria’s blue eyes were bright and hopeful.

Shadow could only nod. He felt if he opened his mouth, he would ruin her hopes. So a fib wouldn’t hurt, right?

Maria clapped her hands together. “Oh thank goodness! I’ve never made a cake before, so I was so nervous.” She rambled on happily as she cut a slide. Shadow’s eyes went wide. He couldn’t let her eat it. He grabbed the plate from her hand as he put on his best big round eye look. “May I eat the whole thing? Please Maria?”

Maria looked confused but that was soon overtaken by a smile of joy and pride. 

Shadow sat quietly eating the cake as Maria yammered on and on. Shadow was just happy that she was happy. Nothing else really mattered.

A few hours later, Shadow had never regurgitated anything before. It burned his throat and he felt awful. His stomach roared in protest as his body tried to forcefully remove his insides.

“You have food poisoning,” Professor Gerald Robotnik stated with confusion. “What did you eat today, Shadow?” He rubbed the hedgehog’s back.

“Maria made me a cake,” Shadow whimpered.

Gerald hissed to himself. “I’ll call Doctor Rosaline. She’ll take care of you. Okay?”

Shadow could only give a weak nod and a whimper. He was sick for two days as Professor Gerald informed everyone no to let Maria in the kitchen areas unsupervised every again.

A story from work

This is dated July 3rd.
Hello, and let me tell you all about the humans I've dealt with today (July 3rd). We had an all inclusive part at 7:30pm and then I heard that they were going to cancel it. For what, I don't know, but they wound up having it. I cooked the 4 wings platters and 8 fries. My coworker made the 4 pizzas for me. It was a big rush, I helped carry the food to their room. I mainly focused on cooking the meals. I had 2 ticket that said "All Inclusive Party" with whatever it is they ordered. This case 2 wings and 1 fry. I had a lady tell me to make the wings "well done." I was confused because she didn't have a sticker. She said her sister ordered them for her. I reminded the party host, who was taking orders that they could only order one thing at a time. This is so they can't order food for those not in the party. She told me she was just letting them get what they wanted so they would be on their way.
Apparently the lady who had ordered wanted to have an attitude because she kept saying, "Is there a problem? Because there shouldn't be a problem. He said we can get whatever we want."
The thing that bothered me was that I said there wasn't a problem several times, but she kept repeating, "Is there a problem?" After I said no several times. Keep in mind, I'm the only one cooking all the food and I'm trying to cook everything. Luckily, I spent most of the time cooking and not interacting with customers. But later at 9:24, the same lady came up and told me, "Your manager said we could get ice cream to go." She had an attitude the whole time with me. I was polite and even allowed her to get it even though it was passed time for their food orders to be free. Her food stopped at 9:15. I did ask the manager on duty what time their food stopped as I went to the back to grab ice cream cups. Just to double confirm that their food was over.
I got their ice cream and I put it in cups because every single time someone asks for ice cream to go, they mean a cup. This set the women off. The whole time I was standing there, trying not to say, "Fraulein, calm down. Do you need midol?" Because her attitude and temperament makes me feel like she was on her period.
I just remade the ice cream to placesate her and get her far away from me.
Have any of you ever dealt with people like this?
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UGH! I actually remember this vaguely still. Lady was awful. Like I'm doing my job, don't go yelling at me for it. Just take a deep breath. I can tell by the way I wrote this that I was going to turn this into a video at some point.

Random short from my notebook

My notebook is almost full and since most of the weird stories bits haven't been typed up yet, I'll begin typing it up as I stay home due to the Coronavirus.
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April 14th, I don't know the year.
The list was just scribbles of sloppy slanted writing. Ideas and motivation was clammed up in their brain. how long had they been sitting at the desk. Their eyes sinking in to their skull as bags sagged. They finally put down their pen and examined the large ink plot on the page.
Short horrors
The pain was becoming unbearable. She wanted to curl up and scream. But years of conditioning and harsh words from those around her told her she couldn't. She just had to grin and bear it.
Well, she was tired of that. The medicine designed to ease the cramps wasn't helping unless she got dangerously close to overdosing.
She finally couldn't bear it anymore. She collected the best knives in the house. She couldn't afford a doctor and knew that they might not even be able to fix the problem. She just knew she wanted the pain to end.
A cocktail of pain

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And that's all that's written on this page. I think that was on one of days I wanted to remove my whole uterus when my cramps were really bad and I was turning it into a story, but stopped half way through.

Blind Date Ch22

Krissie: Nov. 5 2019, on 1st 15 at work. Now onto this story.
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Amy glared at her cousin. He gave her a sheepish glare. "Why wasn't I informed about another government coming into our country?"

"We didn't want to bother you with wearing old fashion royal clothes?" Rob shrugged as he adjusted his sleeves.

"But you're fine making me dress like a clown." Jon grumbled from the bathroom.

"As crown prince, you're required to suffer with me!" Rob shot back.

Amy rolled her eyes. "And I am excempt?" She pointed to herself with a finger and a glare. She was upset and Rob knew it. 

Rob bit his lip, "Look, as duchess, you're not required to meet with government officials or handle all those..." He searched for the right word.

"It's important. I'm here. I will be attending." Amy stated firmly.

"But..."

Amy held up her hand. "I will be attending the meeting." Her eyes said any protest would be meet with a hammer to the back of the head.

"I look forward to having you there!" Marian pushed her husband out of Amy's line of sight. "I still need help getting into this dress," she pleaded with a smile, gesturing to the mess of layers clinging to her body. 

Amy softened as she pulled her cousin into the bedroom. She fixed the layers as Marian sighed.

"I feel like a poodle," she glared at her reflection on in the mirror. Amy bit her lip to not laugh as she adjusted the final layer. The elaborate embroidery was beautiful, but Marian never liked these old fashion puffy dresses. "Yuck, I even look a show dog." 

"Welcome to royality," Amy hummed. 

Once she was done helping Marian, Amy went to her room to change. Rob and the others has already went on their way; she would meet them there once she has changed. The number of layers and laces and the fact that she was dressing herself, it would take her a good 30 minutes to even an hour. It was still plenty of time before the meeting with GUN. Amy couldn't believe Rob decided to form some sort of military alliance with GUN and not the Republic of Acorn. 

A knock at her window made her jump as Amy struggle ld with the underwear of the dress.  She pulled back the curtain and opened the window to find a black and red hedgehog.

"No one answered the door," Shadow stated simply. 

Amy rolled her eyes. "Well since you're here, you can help me with these laces." She jestured to the white corset she was wearing. 

"What's with the Victorian clothes?" He arched an eyebrow as he looked her up and down. His brain finally realizing that he was standing in a room with a woman in her underwear. He needed to leave now. "Why did you even let me in here!?" He yelled as he turned on his heel to leave. 

Amy grabbed him by the arm. "I'm wearing regular underwear under this and two, this is just like PJs. I have to be dressed in full royal garb within the next two hours. These laces and layers are difficult and since you're here with your senior citizen knowledge, you can help me get dress quicker." Amy squeezed his arm to make a point. "Please?" She gave a forceful smile. 

Shadow groaned. "Fine! But we tell no one. I don't want people accusing me of being a pervert for being around a half dressed woman." He turned the pink girl away from him so he could take a look at the laces of the corset. Of course it had to be tied in the back.

"Rouge shows more skin then this all the time, I think you'll be fine." Amy teased.

Shadow glared as he pulled the laces a bit to tight to make her gasp. "I'm not the one in a mid evil torture device," he pulled her closer, lowering his voice to a rasp. His breath tickling her neck. 

Amy wrapped her arms around his head. Her fingers getting lost in his quills. "Do you think I can break your neck from this position?" She gasped as she leaned her head into his chest.

All Shadow could smell was her cherry blossom body wash and the mint toothpaste she used that morning. He felt a tingle rush down his spine. He glanced at the bird house clock ticking on her wall. He had to be at the meeting Hall in an hour and half. It was plenty of time, but not enough all at the same time.

Amy caught Shadow glancing at the clock and then the bed in thought. "I have to be at the conference building soon. I'm sitting in on Rob's meeting with GUN." Amy rushed to say, removing her hands from his quills.

"So do I," Shadow groaned as he finished the lacing of the corset. 

"So what kind of arrangement did Rob make with GUN?" Amy put on the layers of skirts that would poof out the final layer. "I was too mad at him for him to tell me."

"From what I understand, I am to train a squad of 20-30 people for the army and use said squad to remove the legion from the Castle of Mercia." Shadow tapped his fingers on the chair by her desk. 

"So what is GUN getting from this arrangement?" Amy arched a brow as she put on the final layer. She fumbled with the buttons. "Help me," she held up her arm for him to help with the buttons on the cuff. The final look was green with a floral print. The flowers were styled after the ones that grew on little planet. The cuffs ended with lace. The final layer was silk by the feel of it. 

Shadow shrugged as he button the cuffs and fixed the buttons are her neck she had missed. "No clue, I feel like they're all testing me to see how I lead a squad." Shadow stated.

"But you lead team dark," Amy opened the drawer of her desk vanity and stared at the glittery jewelry. It had all belong to her aunt Lillian and it was rarely worn. Though cleaned weekly. She picked up two tiraras and glanced between them. One had red gems and one had green gems. She glanced at herself in the mirror, holding each tirara over her head in thought.

Shadow glanced in the drawer and saw one with white jeweled flowers with each center being a different color. It made a rainbow. He plucked it up and placed it on her head.

Amy bit the inside of her lip as she tilted her head at him. He arched a brow at her, daring her to argue with his choice. She sighed as she put the two in her hands back in the drawer. She pulled out the matching bracelet and slid it on her wrist. 

"Let's get going," she stated after putting on a small amount of shimmering lip gloss.

"No other make up?" He missed as he followed her down stairs. 

Amy shook her head. "The jewelry calls enough attention." She grabbed her car keys from the hook before finding Shadow holding the door for her. Amy smiled as she gave a soft bow. 

"Such a gentleman," she giggled as she walked outside. 

Shadow shrugged as he closed the door. Amy locked the door before walking to her car. "Want to catch a ride with me?" She unlocked the doors of her small car. Shadow shrugged as he got into the car.

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Krissie: Nov. 21st. Finished on my first 15 of the day. Been slowly working on things.
NEXT

Blind Date Ch21

KRISSIE: 8/31/2019 9:06pm. So we've made it here. I hope you all enjoy this one.
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Shadow found himself called into a meeting with Commander Towers, the president, and several other big wig rulers. The commander and president he was used to, but the others he wasn't used to seeing in meetings. They were normally in these meetings when it was something major. Princess Elise of Soleanna, King Elias, Lupe, and several other world leaders Shadow knew of by face but not names. He felt uncomfortable in the room, but kept his usual un-expressive face on. He hadn't heard of any world threatening thing. Eggman had been silent. Nothing on Black Doom or Metarex either.
"Agent Shadow, have a seat," Commander Towers gestured to a seat at the large round table. Shadow just stared at the table before glancing at all the people at the table. He crossed his hands behind his back. He normally didn't sit for these meetings.
"If it's all right with you Commander, I would prefer to stand." Shadow looked him in the eye.
Commander Towers sighed, "That would be fine if this was about a normal mission, but as you can see," he stressed as he gestured to all the people at the table. His face forming new stress wrinkles as he clenched his teeth. "This isn't one of your normal mission briefings. Now agent," His irises began to shrink in rage, "Please have. A. Seat."
Shadow stared into Commander Towers eyes for a moment before stepping forward. "Very well. If you insist." He slide into the chair and felt more uncomfortable then he ever had in a meeting. At least it wasn't as uncomfortable as when Sonic tried to have that chat with him.
Shadow and Commander Towers both released a held breath at the same time.
"Now Shadow, I'm sure you are wondering why we called you here today," the president began with a smile, a slight wave of his hand gesturing towards the others at the table. "We have all been discussing your performance and behavior over the pass few years."
Shadow's mind began to race. Where they going to tell him he was too dangerous to be out and about anymore? That he would have to be placed in another pod? He vaguely remembered seeing his future self trapped in one in Silver's time once. Was this when it happened?
"It's nothing bad," Elias shot up to assure him. "You've been doing quite well actually. We're all really impressed."
Shadow looked at the king and wasn't sure what to make of anything. He wanted to bolt, but he knew that would only make things worse.
"Yes, exactly!" The president assured. He pulled out one of those soft squishy toys people squeeze for stress relief and placed it in Shadow's palm.
Shadow merely stared at as he continued speaking.
"Since you're doing so well, we've decided to put you in charge of training and leading a squad of 20-30 people."
Shadow looked up with interest.
The president slid a folder in front of Shadow. Shadow placed his free hand on top of it. "You'll be leading this squad of yours on a mission to remove the Legion from the Castle of Mercia."
Shadow raised a brown as his eyes scanned the table over. None of the Mercian royal family was present. Taking note of that for when he would be able to speak, he focused his attention on the president.
"We intend to give Mercia back their castle and assist with their Legion problem as a show of good will and faith with their government." The president waved his hand over the table. "That is why out of all the governments represented, you do not see them here. Do you have any questions so far Agent Shadow?"
"Is the Mercian government aware of this plan?" Shadow stared down at the folder. Unsure what to do.
"The king and queen and their council have agreed. In fact, a majority of the squad you'll be training will be Mercian soldiers already. The public has not been informed and we would like to keep it that way," the president stressed this fact. Shadow wasn't surprised. Most governments wanted to keep the people from public mass-hysteria. Also, it would alert the Legion which would put them at a disadvantage.

"Since you've been spotted in Mercia on your downtime by several of the locals, they'll most likely think you're on vacation. If any locals ask, just tell them you are." The commander took a sip of his coffee.

Shadow tilted his head as he arched an eyebrow. Was GUN seriously giving him his own troop if they were still watching his every move.

"Tabloids have photographs Shadow," the Commander smirked at him. 

Shadow nodded as he looked at the folder. 

There were a few other bits of information. Mostly, Shadow had to go home and pack. He would be off for several months. His living arrangements for Mercia were already made. 

"So how did the meeting go?" Rouge asked as Shadow walked back to his desk. 

"I have a mission in another country." Shadow kept his answers short. 

"And Omega and I aren't coming with you?" Rouge crossed her arms. Team Dark was rarely apart for missions. 

"It seems that way," Shadow nodded as he sat at his desk. He placed the folder in the drawer as he set to finish the mountain of paperwork on his desk. 

"So what country will you be working in?" She leaned onto his shoulder.

"I am not at liberty to discuss it," Shadow stated simply. "But I won't be back for a few months from the sound of it.

Rouge sighed. She knew she was pushing her luck. She would have to snoop elsewhere. "Very well." She plucked up a few folders from his desk. "I'll help you with these so you can get to that mission quicker."

Shadow smiled as they got to work. The paper work didn't take long. 

"Remember to write!" Rouge demanded as Shadow packed a duffel bag.

"I will," he rolled his eyes. 

"I'll bring Cream over to care for the plants," Rouge walked around his bedroom.

Shadow arched a brow at her. 

"I'm a treasure hunter, not a green thumb," she shrugged. 

Shadow nodded as he zipped up the duffel bag.

"Aren't you going to pack more clothes then that?" Rouge gasped as she slammed her hands on his bed. 

"This will be plenty." Shadow assured her.

"Shadow you have at least two to three cases of weapons, and you bring one duffel bag of clothes. Did you at least pack clean underwear?" 

Shadow rolled his eyes, "Yes mom." 

Rouge growled as Shadow slung the bag over his shoulder and walked out of the room. "You're a senior citizen!" 

"And yet, I must be so young that you need to mother me," He shook his head in humor. 

Rouge growled before muttering something under her breath. Shadow smirked, trying not to laugh at being called a stubborn old man. 

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Krissie: 11/5/19 so NaNoWriMo has started. I haven't really started writing for it yet. But I'm trying to get back into writing stories. My goal is to finish this story by New Year's.

NEXT 

Blind Date Ch20

KRISSIE: 10:18am, let's continue with the story.
PREVIOUS
Shadow hadn't explored a lot of the woods. Where Sonic liked to run when he explored, Shadow liked to take it slower. Look at everything and take it in. There was a lot of nature in Mercia. Some spots he could tell where Eggman had destroyed it and others, he could find trees so large, he was sure they were centuries old. Shadow currently found himself walking along a stream watching the fish swim along. He found it peaceful. Marian was right about the breeze being nice by water today too.
Shadow felt something hit his stomach as he fell over. He faced forward to notice an iron bench. He groaned. How did he forget to look forward?
"Are you alright?" The voice was soft.
Shadow groaned. Of course it had to be seen.
"Shadow?"
"I'm fine Rose," he pinched the bridge of his muzzle. "And yourself?" He looked up to see Amy, taking note of the sundress she wore. It was a light pale green with flowers lining the bottom hem and bodice.
"Wanting to laugh at you for not looking forward when you walk. But it's not very nice." She smiled as she readjusted her blanket. Shadow noticed the intricate floral pattern she was creating.

"The D'Coolette's will be very pleased to know how long you've spent working on their gift."

Amy beam as she scooted over. She patted the spot next to her and Shadow took her up on it. "I am planning on going to their baby shower next week. Will you be attending?"
He shook his head. "I rather not party crash."
Amy hummed as she continued her stitching. "So what have you been up to?"
Shadow shrugged. "The usual. Work and new missions. Rouge lectured me for upsetting you. I remodeled my home a bit."
"Really? What did you remodel in your house?"
Shadow found himself watching the pink hedgehog as she stitched the flowers; pulling the needle through the cloth as if she was running her hand through water. "My living room floor. There was a huge hole in the floor."
Amy's hand jerked as her face became flush. "Sorry..,." the breath finally came out. "That wasn't very ladylike of me."
Shadow smirked. His eyes becoming half lidded. "A lot of you isn't ladylike Rose."
Amy jerked as he glared him. In a few seconds, Shadow would be deaf for sure.
His smile only grew as he moved a quill out of her face. "That's what I like best about you."
"My tantrums?"
Shadow shook his head. "You're passion and how you never hide it. No matter what. How you can make even the toughest of enemies fear that hammer of yours is also amusing." Shadow leaned onto her, resting his head on her shoulder. She smelled of cherry blossoms today. Normally she smelled of artificial strawberries. Her body began to warm up. Something Shadow enjoyed.
"Comfortable?" the hum made Shadow hum back. Amy continued on with her stitching. She bobbed her shoulder up and down a little after a few minutes.
"I'm content, please let me enjoy this." Shadow nuzzled closer into her neck.
Amy sighed as she continued with her stitching. She switched through three different thread colors as they sat there.
A group of young tens came down the river, chasing a fish. Amy smiled at them as they passed.
They cheered as they caught it a few yards down the river. They began walking back up the river to where they were originally. They paused and gawked at the two on the bench. "Hello your majesty," a young bird greeted with a shy wave. "Sorry to disturb your.... date?"
Amy chuckled. "It's fine." She held up a hand. "You guys have a lovely day. That fish sure gave you guys a run."
The dog Mobian nodded, "We still won though." The group waved as they walked away. Amy returning the waves.
"For royalty, you're rather approachable." Shadow mumbled as he slightly opened his eyes.
"We take pride in being able to understand our people in Mercia. It helps bring us all closer together I feel like." Amy returned to her stitching. She was on the stem for the flower.
"Why didn't you correct them about the date?" Shadow glanced around the river.
"There is a sleeping man on my shoulder. No matter what I say, they would think I was being shy and still presume otherwise." Amy placed her chin on his head.
Shadow gave a soft nod.
"Let's just hope rumors don't start." Amy hummed.
Shadow arched an brow at her. He looked up and found the sun setting. He stretched as he stood up. "Want an escort home?" He offered his hand.
Amy smiled as she accepted it. They took a route through the city under dim yellow city lights. Amy softly telling him about some of the places as they walked by. As Amy walked up the steps to her home. She smiled at Shadow. "If you're ever in Mercia again, let me know. I can be your tour guide."
Shadow nodded as he chaos controlled home.

The baby shower was very lively as the girls were chatting around a picnic table. The boys were playing a bored game and arguing about rules.
Bunnie kept looking at the door. She was hoping Amy would come, but she hadn't arrived in the country yet. But Amy did promise she would be here.
"Amy sure is running late?" Sally hummed.
Bunnie smiled at her as she nodded.
"Should we call her? Maybe she's still on the plane." Cream sounded hopeful.
"But if she's on a commercial flight, she wouldn't get the phone call dear." Vanilla stated as she poured herself some tea.
"Oh..."
"I'm sure she'll be here any minute." Bunnie stated mainly to herself.
"Right, if Amy said she'll be here. She'll be here." Hershey beamed.
Cream nodded as she pulled out her phone. "I don't know a lot of about Mercia." She typed the country into the search bar. Her eyes widened as she stared at the online news article. "Oh boy." She slid the phone into her lap.
Vanilla looked at her in question.
"Let me see," Rouge leaned over her shoulder.
"It's nothing. Really." Cream tried to hide the phone.
"I doubt it." Rouge grabbed it and stared wide at the news article. "This is a tabloid." She bared her teeth. "And not a funny one."
"Right!" Cream stated. "But it's not right to start such baseless rumors." Everyone stared at the rabbit. It was rare for the calm teen to show anger.
Rouge handed her the phone back. "I'm sure they'll all realize that soon enough. And it's not like Amy will let rumors like that bother her."
"What rumors?" Antoine turned to look at the girls.
"Some tabloid in Mercia started a baseless rumor stating that Amy is pregnant!" Rouge growled.
"It's completely false. Amy is the kind of girl who will wait till marriage." Cream stated firmly.
All the guys began to panic.
"Relax it's obviously false." Rouge assured them.
"But why would they be saying that?" Sonic question.
"Probably to have something juicy to discuss." Sally sighed. "Amy is apart of the Mercian royal family. People love to start baseless rumors about celebrities."
"Amy's royalty?" Rouge gasped.
Sally nodded. "I thought you knew. Aren't you a spy for GUN?"
"We don't have a lot of information on Mercia since we're still in negotiations of opening a trade agreement with them." Rouge shrugged.
A knock at the door ceased the uproar. Antoine got up to greet the new visitors. He sighed in relief as she saw Amy standing on his front porch. He wrapped his arms around her. "You're late Ma Aime."
Amy chuckled.
"That is my fault," Shadow stated from beside the pink hedgehog.. "I overslept."
"Well since you're both here, come inside." Antoine ushered them both inside. "There's plenty of food and drink."
Amy smiled. "I brought my present!" She held up the box wrapped in shiny glittery paper for him to see.
Antoine nodded as they entered the backyard.
"AMES!" Sonic glomped Amy in a bear hug. Amy stared at the blue hedgehog in shock.
"I wasn't gone that long."
"Yeah, but tabloids made me worry." Sonic released her. "What's up?"
"Wondering what tabloid you read," Amy walked up to Bunnie and hugged her. She placed the gift in Bunnie's hand. "Since I'm so late, can you guys open this and be happy."
Bunnie laughed as she accepted the gift. She opened it carefully and gawked as she pulled out the baby blanket. It had flowers beautifully embroidered on it.
"Where did you buy this?" Antoine was in awe at the wonderful craftsmanship on the blanket.
"There are two of them," Bunnie pulled out a matching blanket but with alternate colors.
"Wow!" Hershey whistled.
"That must of cost a pretty penny." Rouge mused.
"Only the fabric and thread." Amy smiled.
"You made this?" Antoine and Bunnie spoke in unison.
"I wanted your child's gift to be special." Amy blushed.
"Have you been working on this every where you go in Mercia?" Sally asked as she stared at the skill of the stitches.
"Pretty much." Amy nodded. "I was worried I wouldn't be able to get them done in time."
"Ah! No wonder the tabloids were saying you were pregnant." Sonic sighed in relief. "They took pictures of you working on the baby blanket and ran with it."
"And this explains why every one is worried about Rose." Shadow crossed his arms. "You should have more faith in Rose. She is the type to wait til marriage before she engage in intercourse."
"I think Shadow just likes to show off his huge vocabulary." Knuckles rolled his eyes. "You can help with this board game then." He dragged Shadow over the table. They had scrabble out. Shadow nodded as he assisted the guardian.
The baby shower was full of laughter and yummy cake. Antoine and Bunnie had decided to let the baby's gender be a surprise for them. Though it didn't stop Bunnie from trying to convince Hershey and Geoffrey to have a child so their's would have one to play with. Amy walked back with Shadow and Rouge.
"So... You're a princess?" Rouge spoke slowly.
Amy chuckled. "Is everyone going to act weird about it when they first find out?"
"Well it is a shock. I mean, half the time now I feel like I should be greeting you as my lady or your majesty and holding the door for you and all that other stuff," Shadow counted out the things on his fingers.
"You hold the door for girls naturally," Amy pointed out. "And you also pull out girls' chairs for them naturally too. You're just a gentleman."
"They made sure the ultimate life form had the ultimate manners!" Rouge teased.
"It only looks that way because the mannerisms have changed over the year," Shadow huffed as he crossed his arms.
"The main question is, why not flaunt that title around?" Rouge mused. "Or wear some royal jewels?"
Shadow chocked on air. "She's plotting to rob your country."
Amy chuckled as she wrapped her arm around Rouge's. "I grew up being one of the people. Eggman wrecked my home and sent the family into hiding. My cousin and I, however, find it easier to help the people when we're apart of them. Not above them. Plus, it's less lonely!" Amy placed her finger on her chin. "As far as jewels, I'm sorry many of them are hidden in secret rooms in the castle. But the legion is still occupying it. So even if you wanted to add them to your collection. You would first have to either remove the legion or infiltrate them long enough to find the room the jewels are hidden in."
"How do you know the legion haven't sold them on a black market?" Rouge mused.
"Have you heard of Lilian's tiara?"
"Oh yeah! It's legendary. It's a tiara whose jewels form to look like a rose." Rouge babbled as she described the tiara.
Amy smiled. "And have you ever heard of it being found?"
Rouge shook her head. "It's never been found. People have tried to make fakes, but no one can make one like it."
Amy smirked knowingly. "That tiara is a family heirloom. My mother hide it during the seize of the castle. The fact that no one has found the real one means she hide it really well. Plus the castle has a lot of the secret rooms the legion still hasn't found, which is lucky for us. So when we're able to boot the legion out, we have some things we can sell for supplies."
"You're going to sell them off when you get the castle back?" Rouge bellowed in shock.
"Yeah. Cousin and I talked about it. We don't have a lot of funding like the Republic of Acorns and GUN has. We're lacking in medical supplies, doctors, schools, everything really. Why it would be nice to keep items from our ancestors, it would be best to sell them so we could buy supplies we need."
Rouge pouted.
"If you want, if we find jewels in the castle, I'll let you buy them first?" Amy tried to sooth the bat's anger.
"Does Mercia have a plan to get the castle back?" Shadow joined in the conversation.
"We're still working on it. We don't have a lot of man power. But I'm pretty strong, so I'm sure I can handle the front line. But Rob is a worry-wart." Amy groaned at her cousin's constant concerns.
Shadow nodded. He understood Rob though. What if Amy got captured. The Legion would use having the princess as leverage to make any seize of the castle cease.
"If the legion captured you, they would use you as a hostage to make everyone stop fighting." Shadow stating simply.
Amy sighed. "I know. But I'm the strongest heavy hitter his has. Everyone else is skilled at distant attacks; and the castle is built on a hill. Arrows don't do well with tall walls."
"A museum!" Rouge clapped her hands together, pulling Amy into her side. She beamed at Amy. "You can put all the artifacts in a museum. Charge a fee to enter and that'll help raise funds. Plus, it'll raise funds continually then a one time sale."
Amy thought about it for a moment and then smiled sweetly. "That does great! But we'll have to pick a building for it. Or build one."
"Well, what are you plans to do with the castle?" Shadow asked.
"We're not sure. Probably just a law office for meetings and such. Rob really likes his house."
"That's lame." Rouge pouted. "Why don't you live in it?"
Amy sighed. "It's so big. And I'll be there alone since Rob doesn't want to live in it. I think it'll be lonely."
"Though you can unleash all your home decor skills on all the rooms," Shadow shuddered. He had seen Amy go all out when decorating homes. She deprived great pleasure from it and Shadow could only hope she never decided to redecorate his home.
Amy beamed in excitement. "Oooh... That would be fun."
"I'm sure Hershey and Geoffrey would love to come help. They both seem to love decorating homes." Rouge teased.
"I'll consider inviting them." Amy skipped happily.
"If it's fire power you need to get the castle back, why not ask the Acorn family or Sonic for help? Or even GUN for that matter?" Rouge asked.
Shadow gulped as his body stiffened. He had been wondering the same thing, but he wasn't sure if he should ask since they just made up over him putting her in a mental corner.
"We thought about it. The thing is, the country of Mercia has no money to really pay for assistance. Plus, we have nothing really to trade with either country to really form an alliance. Like what would the Republic of Acorn want in exchange? Could we give it to them after that assistance? Would it put our people in a bind? The same thing with GUN. While it would be more favorable to go through the Republic of Acorns, they are also still growing too. So would it be safe for them to send their soldiers to our country? Or would that leave them unprotected?"
"You really thought about it huh?" Rouge stared at Amy with a new found respect.
"Yeah. Rob and I began thinking about it after one of the eastern countries sent an alliance proposal." Amy looked down as she tapped her fingers on Rouge's arm.
"Really? What did they want?" Rouge puckered her lip as she moved a strand of quill out of Amy's face.
"My hand in marriage," Amy rolled her eyes.
"You didn't accept that did you?" Shadow stopped in his tracked as he grabbed Amy's free arm. His eyes wide in panic.
Amy stared back in shock. Her mouth slightly agape. She gulped down the saliva in her throat. "Rob politely declined for me."
"Meaning?" Rouge implored as Shadow sighed with relief. Though he refused to release her arm.
"Rob and Marian informed me of the proposal after it was declined. I was then educated on how negations work." Amy stated as she glanced every so often at Shadow's grip on her arm.
Rouge looked over at the ebony hedgehog. She arched an eyebrow at him. Once she had eye contact with him, she glanced at his hand and back with questioning.
Shadow simply shook his head. He wasn't going to let Amy Rose go anytime soon.
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NEXT

Witch and Kelpie Ch1

Krissie: I am planning on making a slice of life comic based off of these characters. So, I wanted to share the original book that they came from. I hope you enjoy and share your opinions with me. The story will be published on a schedule.

Chapter 1: A Deal

The air was stiff as he came to the new shore. He couldn’t believe how different the coast of North America was compared to his home of Scotland. The boat’s horn flared as it docked. Caiside cringed at the sound.

“Why must they ring that horn?” he muttered as he looked over the railing. The water was very different too. He sighed as he walked off the boat. This country was his new home, rather he liked it or not.

Caiside had only one tall rolling suit case with him. His curly hair clung to his moist skin as he walked away from the boat. He needed to get away from the coast before he ran home like a child. If he was going to make it in this country, he’d need to find a new home.

Donald glanced up at the chime of the bell of his bookstore. It was pouring outside, so he shouldn’t have any customers today. No one ever came into his store when it was raining. People barely came in when it was sunny. Donald marveled at his guest.

The man was soaking wet but seemed indifferent to it. His curly black hair clung to his body and looked like a wet mop. His yellow stripped sweater clung to his body revealing all the muscles underneath. Donald gulped at the sight. Large greyish green eyes flicked up to him.

“Um… Hello!” Donald greeted as he put down a pile of books. “How can I help you?”

“Is this the library?” He walked up to the counter, rolling a tall suit case behind him. He had a slight accent that Donald could only place as European.

“Hollins Books is a library, but we’re also a book store.” Donald informed as he walked over to look at him. “I guess it’s really pouring outside. Did you lose your umbrella?”

“I did not bring one.” He responded, looking around. “I just arrived in this country today.”

“Ah.” Donald nodded. It all made sense now. He must be wanting to spend the night at the library. “Let me get you a map of hotels in the area.” He got this all the time. He pulled out a pamphlet from the drawer. Man, he wished that just once a hot guy would come in to discuss books with him. “Here ya go. Can I get you anything else?”

He stared at the pamphlet dumbly before looking back up at him. “Actually, I was wondering if I could have a job application.” He gave a meek smile.

Donald tilted his head and arched an eyebrow. “Do you have a work visa?”

“Yes.” He nodded, pulling the damp documents out of his pockets.

Donald nodded as he pulled out the application. “Shouldn’t you be looking for a place to live first?”

“I do not have the funds in your currency.” His voice was so soft, it was almost a whisper. “That’s the trouble with being thrown out.”

Donald was sure he wasn’t supposed to hear that last part, but he did. Something about the idea of the man being thrown out made Donald feel bad for him. “What’s your name?”

“Caiside Lithgow.” He continued filling out the form.

“Donald I. Hollins.” Donald went back to sorting the rest of the books.

“Coincidence or related to owners?” Caiside asked.

“Related. My ancestors built this building years ago.” Donald answered as he stacked the books on the shelves.

“So which relative owns this shop now?” Caiside mused.

“My great Aunt Bethel.” Donald began reorganizing the kids’ section. “She’s rather busy though, so I wind up doing a lot of the work here for her.”

“She has no children?”

“Nah. She’s got plenty of kids. They just,” Donald paused as he skimmed over the store, “Don’t have the same love of books that we do.”

Caiside nodded as he put the pen back in the cup. He put his documents back in his pockets. He picked up the pamphlet and skimmed over it. He didn’t have any money to stay in one of these places. At least not yet. “Do you know were any parks are? Close by?”

Donald froze as he looked at him. “You really have nothing, huh?”

Caiside nodded in shame. He hated feeling shame in front of a mortal. He was a kelpie, a proud scarce race. Yet even among their few numbers, he had been cast out. Forced to leave Scotland, his precious home. It seemed all Caiside could do now was feel shame.

“Why did you come to America without any money?” Donald’s voice rose.

Caiside avoided his gaze. “It was my only choice. Had I’d stayed, even in my own country,” Caiside swallowed back his tears. He couldn’t allow himself to stay in pain. “I came. I’m here. There’s no turning back now.” He made the sternest face he could. “Now about that park?”

“Let me go find a map for you.” Donald rushed to the back of the store. “They’re kept in the back. Just stay there until I get back.”

Donald began rummaging through the maps. Surely they had an up to date one that listed parks and other safe places to sleep on it.

“Donald?”

Donald jumped at the feminine voice. “Aunt Beth. What are you doing here? You said you wouldn’t be back from the conference until tomorrow.”

Bethel smiled at her nephew. “I came home a day early. What are you doing back here?” She arched an eyebrow at him.

“Getting a map.” Donald gave a shy smile, “For a guy up front.”

“Tell me about him.” Bethel crossed her arms. Donald sighed as he relayed what he knew of Caiside Lithgow to his great aunt. “Hmm…” she hummed, “I’d like to meet him.” She sauntered her way to the front of the shop.

Caiside stared as a woman walked up to the front of the store. He had heard her heels clicking on the floor long before he saw her. She was a beautiful elegant woman. She was dressed as if she came from the times of kings and queens. Her perfume was a heavy floral scent.

“Hello!” She smiled as she reached the counter. “I’m Bethel Hollins. You must be Caiside Lithgow, am I right?”

“Yes.” Caiside nodded. There was no way this woman could be Donald’s aunt. She was much too young.

“Well, while my nephew is busy getting that map for you, would you mind turning the sign to close for me? I just got home from a long conference and I want to treat Donald for being a good boy while I was away.

“Okay.” Caiside wasn’t sure why, but something about Bethel made him uncomfortable. He turned the sign and walked back to the counter.

Bethel was quietly reading his job application as she spun every so often in the computer chair. He glanced to the back of the shop were Donald had gone. He wished Donald would return soon. He missed him.

“So…” Bethel held the word in a long vowel, drawing Caiside’s attention to her. “How long have you not been mortal?”

Caiside gulped.

How did she know? Wait! She must be joking, playing a prank on him.

“What are you talking about?” He tried to sound calm.

Bethel sighed. “Miserae hec dea ventuset siccabo venameius coram me.” [Latin – Goddess of wind dry this poor creature before me.]  She waved her hand as she chanted.

A gust of wind surrounded Caiside, drying his hair and clothes before dying down into nothing.

“Aunt Bethel!” Donald exclaimed as he ran between them. “Stop it!  You know you’re not supposed to use your magic like that. Especially on regular people.”

Bethel arched an eyebrow at her nephew. She knew the rules very well. She was a sorceress after all.

“You’re a witch.” Caiside stated as he processed the information.

“Sorceress actually.” Bethel corrected with a crooked grin.

Donald glared at her before laughing. “Ha-ha. Aren’t you funny!” He turned to Caiside. “Aunt Bethel really likes to joke around sometimes.”

“Donald Irwin Hollins.” Bethel’s voice was cold and sharp.

“Yes Aunt Bethel?” Donald smiled as he turned to face her.

“Caiside here isn’t mortal.” She gestured towards the curly haired man. “It’s okay to tell him we’re magic.”

Donald slowly turned to Caiside. “You’re not mortal?”

Caiside shook his head. “No. You’re a sorcerer?”

“No. I’m a witch.” Donald answered. “What are you?”

“You can’t tell?” Bethel gave her nephew a look of pity.

“I didn’t even realize he wasn’t mortal.” Donald shrugged. “Of course I don’t know what he is.”

Bethel smirked. “Then why don’t we play a game? Caiside, I’ll need your corporation for this.”

Caiside arched an eyebrow at her. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to play a game with Bethel. No one in their right mind would agree to a game with a sorceress.

“Donald here is out of shape with his magic. All you have to do is stick around. I’ll supply you with room and board. You can work here too. You’ll be paid of course.” Bethel leaned forward. “Donald, you’re going to figure out what Caiside is. Caiside, you can’t tell him. You can give hints, but only with my permission. Let’s give a time limit of, let’s say, 4 months. That should be plenty of time. Donald, if you are able to succeed, I’ll get you a gift that will suit you well. If you fail, I’ll make you run up and down the coast line again. Twice. Caiside, rather Donald succeeds or not, I shall set you up with a new home here. You can even give your approval, if you like. So what do you say?” She leaned back and grinned. “The only one with anything at stake here is Donald after all.”

“Do I get a say in this?” Donald question.

“Nope.” Bethel popped the P loudly. “Well Caiside Lithgow? What do you say?”

Caiside clenched his fist. “What happens to me if I accidentally tell him what I am?”

“I erase his memory of that day and give you a long lecture you’ll never want again.” Bethel was nonchalant with her statement.

Donald gulped.

“What happens if I decline?”

“Donald has to run along the coast twice and you’re on your own in navigating this new country.” Bethel’s grin made Caiside fidget.

Caiside knew he didn’t have many options here. And no matter how he flipped the coin, this was his best option and he wasn’t going to get any better opportunity then this. Caiside sighed. He wasn’t loosing anything by agreeing to this deal. In fact, he was gaining a lot. “Very well, I agree to your game.”

Bethel smacked her lips. “Goody, goody gumdrops!” She stood up and spun. “Now, let’s go get dinner!” She pranced to the door and locked it before grabbing the two men’s arms and dragging them to the back door. “I don’t suppose you’ve ever had McDonald’s before Caiside. Consider it a new experience!”

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