-Prologue-

Today, I had to run. It's ironic to think that I could never outrun him.

I always thought that we were meant to be together. Through everything, even when we fought, even when we didn't see each other for months at a time; even when I was roboticized, and... and... ...and then the reboot*. Over the years, every time something split us up, I still had this feeling that he was the one for me. That one day everything would make sense, and ultimately, we could be together. Now, nothing makes sense.

I'm so confused. A couple of years back, when we finally found Eggman's main robot foundry and took it down, causing the Robotnik Wars to gradually dwindle to a close, I thought we'd be able to have a normal relationship. I hoped I could get him to settle down with me and finally be the happy, normal couple everyone wanted us to be. But I was wrong. I suppose it was foolish on my part to think he might settle down with me... nobody can slow down Sonic the Hedgehog.

I wish I could accept Sonic's way of living. He's always running off somewhere, looking for another adventure. I enjoy his spontaneity sometimes, everyone does—but it's gone too far. I can't take it anymore. But... I can't just up and forget about him. And I'm scared that he'll just reel me back in any day now with his charms. Oh, how desperately I want him to—

"NO!" I quickly cupped my hands over my mouth. The driver seemed unaffected, thank Aurora, but the other three passengers on the solemn, dimly-lit bus were all staring at me from their seats. One of which, a brown hound of some kind, had apparently just been jolted awake as he rubbed the back of his head from hitting the window by his seat. I slowly lowered my hands as I gave an apologetic glance to each of my fellow passengers in turn.

"Sorry," I said, to no one in particular. "Nightmare." This seemed to satisfy the other bus-goers as they turned to face the front once more, staring out the front windshield into the darkness of the city road ahead. After adjusting a strand of my auburn hair, I elected to perch my chin in the chestnut fur of my left hand as I lazily gazed out the window next to me, not really paying attention to the asphalt below or the night all around. My brief description of the incident just now wasn't all that far from the truth; the past few days have been a living nightmare.

I need help. And there's only one person I can think of who's level-headed and knows me well enough to get me through this. I glanced down at a pair of azure blue combat boots on my feet before shutting my eyes tight and wishing with all my might that when I got off the bus and reached my destination, my friend would be there to help me. I really hope he's home...

Welcome one, welcome all! I've recently been inspired to open up a new story in the Sonic universe. And apparently, right off the bat, our spiny blue hero is causing problems? Bizarre! I hope we find out what's going on soon; I want this girl to start feeling better already. Sounds like she needs a hug.

Speaking of our protagonist, have you figured out who it is yet? If not, it's probably in the description of the story, and if you're reading this far enough in the future, it may even be in the next chapter! Sorry this first part is so short; it's only meant to get your mouth watering! I promise the upcoming chapters will be longer.

I'm really excited about this project, everyone. Please review! Thanks for reading!

*"The reboot" refers to the universal reboot as a result of the Super Genesis Wave. That being said, this story is canon with the Archie Sonic comics up through at least StH #252 and some surrounding events.

DISCLAIMER: I do not own any part of SEGA or Archie Comics, nor any of their properties.