Chapter 16: The Returning Seeds of Aggression

Emerald District – Emeraldberry Township

Administration Building

9:30 AM…

District Marshal Shadow the Hedgehog returns to Emeraldberry after several hours of driving from the Pearl District. His body still feels the after-effects from the fight against the suspected criminals Amy and Sonic. Despite this, he arrives at the Administration Building at the Emerald District and arrives at Administrator Erclawz's office just as he arrives.

"Ah there you are. You look like hell, just what the hell happened out there?!" Erclawz asks as Shadow walks past him into his office.

"It was more than I was prepared for. That's all I will say. She appeared to be familiar with you though. Any idea what that is about?" Shadow says, taking a seat with his report in hand.

"I… I cannot imagine why… What…did she say? Anything else…unusual?" Erclawz answers nervously.

"She knew you by name; that seemed unusual enough as it is. She also knew that investigator, Georgie. That connection made more sense." Shadow says as Erclawz takes the report.

"Why didn't you arrest them…?" Erclawz asks as he sits at his desk, wiping the sweat from his forehead with a cloth.

"I was only sent there to locate them. You didn't prepare me to return with them. Of course, there is the likelihood that they will have left the Pearl District by now. Then again, maybe not. They are very different than most criminals I've chased." Shadow says.

"How do you figure that?" Erclawz asks, putting the folder down.

"They didn't run as soon as they saw me. Knowing full well that I am a District Marshal, they challenged me and did not do badly at all. They declared their independence and made their stance very clear: they will fight against anyone who comes their way. It's going to take a fair bit more than just myself to bring them to custody. Plus, there is the other problem…" Shadow says.

"Yes, the D.S.A… Even if they are criminals, by law they cannot be taken back, not for any criminal conviction or any reason. They're safe as long as they're in the Pearl District." Erclawz says, putting on a small pair of glasses to look over the report. "So they went through a fair degree of steps to conceal themselves from justice…"

"That's what was listed in the initial report from Georgie, that she had a great deal of experience and technique towards concealment of her criminal activities. She erased some records, created others, essentially creating a new identity for the both of them without arousing any suspicion from the local authorities. She's very good." Shadow says.

"So it seems… Things haven't been quiet around here either, unfortunately. We've seen a rise in criminal activity here all over the Emerald District. The Family seems to be orchestrating a lot of it." Erclawz says.

"The Family… Another name that's been thrown around lately. In any case, I'd best get to my office to compile my report." Shadow says, standing up and proceeding to the door.

"Shadow… Will you continue to work with this case?" Erclawz asks, putting the file down.

"No, I will not. There's another individual that is meant for this case. However… The next time I come across the suspects, should they cross district lines… Once they come into the Emerald district, MY district… They're mine." Shadow says as he leaves.

"Right…" Erclawz says before the door slams behind Shadow. "Damn it all… This is getting out of hand. It is just impossible for one woman to cause this much trouble… The D.S.A. is causing a lot of grief for me." Erclawz says before putting the report away. "I'd better call him up then… He'll be pretty thrilled, I'm sure. In addition to something else…"

Emeraldberry Township Police Department

10:45 AM

Down at the police station, a phone call reaches the secretary straight from the Administrator's building. The woman, a yellow canary with long white hair, soft green eyes, as well as dressing in a blue police uniform complete with a skirt and thigh-high black boots, gasps in surprise as she listens to what she is told. Almost immediately, she hangs up the phone and gets in touch with both Georgie and Andrea.

"Hello? Commissioner Peacock? Yes, I just received a call straight from Administrator Erclawz. You're not going to believe this…" the secretary says as she speaks on the phone.

A few moments later, both Georgie and Andrea arrive at the police station in uniform, scrambling to the front desk in surprise. Georgie is especially noticeable in his excitement as he approaches the front desk and the secretary.

"Pennie, is it true? Please tell me this isn't some cruel joke." Georgie asks.

"It is very true, Commissioner. The Administrator has given Keller an official pardon." Pennie says in a soft accent.

"My god, I cannot believe it. I wonder what happened?" Andrea asks.

"I'm not sure but he said he'll be calling back in a few…" Pennie says before the phone starts ringing. "Minutes." She says before handing the phone to Georgie.

"Hello?" Georgie asks.

"Commissioner Georgie, I have some news for you. After a recent investigation regarding the Emerald District Marshal into this individual that you've been chasing, it has become more apparent that what you were saying was indeed highly plausible. As much as I do not want to admit it, I underestimated this issue greatly." Erclawz says.

"Sir, I… I don't understand…" Georgie says.

"The Marshal found them, but something happened. He came back with his report, confirming that they are out there but something occurred that has brought him back here without them. In addition to this, he has personally entrusted the fate of this case into your hands. Suffice to say, if he found them and experienced something dangerous enough to come back without them, then I must be inclined to believe you now." Erclawz says.

"Do you mean…?" Georgie asks.

"Yes. I am giving Keller an official pardon, exonerating him of all charges based on his involvement with the criminal mastermind herself. While further investigation and monitoring will be done between both yourself and Keller, it is becoming apparent that this woman… This "Miss Rose" and her accomplice are the primary aggressors here. Keller has served enough time for his part." Erclawz says.

"I don't know what to say, Sir… Except thank you, thank you very much for looking towards the path of justice…" Georgie says.

"Don't get too misty-eyed on me now, Commissioner. Keller did commit criminal acts and thus he will need to be given a thorough examination period before he can take up a badge again. There's also still the problem that Miss Rose cannot be brought in." Erclawz explains.

"But why not? She's a high-risk offender, responsible for multiple counts of murder!" Georgie says.

"Perhaps, but you lack the evidence to support it, first of all. Secondly, there is the D.S.A. that must be taken into consideration. She may have committed a crime but even if you find the evidence to support your claims; as long as she remains in the Pearl District, she cannot be charged and she cannot be brought back." Erclawz says.

Georgie cannot help but shake, not just in anger but in confusion. In many cases, if someone commits a crime, law enforcement will go after the individual to bring them back no matter what. That wasn't the case for his case, due to the fact that paranoia divided a country to such an extent that criminals get off easy as long as they cross lines and do not reoffend.

"This is… This is crazy. There has to be a way to bring her to face her crimes." Georgie says.

"There is… And you may be the person to do it." Erclawz says, surprising Georgie.

"What is it? I'll do it, whatever it is, I'll do it." Georgie says.

"There is a convention coming up, the only time where representatives of the other districts, including District Marshals and middle men for Administrators, meet once a year. If you can make a general plea before them to dissolve or at least amend the D.S.A., then that will be just the platform needed to jump-start investigations beyond District lines." Erclawz says.

"Okay… When is this convention? I'll have to prepare a really good argument." Georgie says.

"You have three days. Do your district proud, Georgie, and good luck." Erclaws says before hanging up.

"Georgie… Do you think you can change their minds?" Andrea asks.

"I won't know until I try." Georgie says.

Suddenly, several officers walk out from the hallway leading to the jail cells, bringing with them the exhaustion-expressed Keller the Leopard, his whiskers long and his fur slightly ruffled. His eyes show a man that had been racked with guilt as he sat in his jail cell, as well as worry for what his future would hold until he had received his pardon. As he approaches Georgie, he says only one thing:

"I will help you take her down…"

Port Pearllight

Glitter Pearl Street – High Rise Floor 20

11:20 AM

Following the evening against the District Marshal, Amy brings Sonic to the inner city of Port Pearllight in order to have his first formal meeting with the Family. While they had met each other prior to moving to the Pearl District, there was no formal communication or meeting established between Sonic and the Family. On this morning, the pair is in their disguises as Sunn Flora and Grove Jade as they enter the large high rise building. Once they reach the top floor, they separate into the bathrooms in order to change. While Amy is in the women's restroom, she finishes changing into a red tank top and red leather tights with black and red boots, applying new black lipstick to her lips before using a bit of white eye shadow.

"Ah perfect…" Amy says as she braids her long pink quills into a pair of tails reaching her lower back. "Now to begin the meeting…huh?"

"My lovely Rose…" a voice rings out from behind her.

Suddenly, she looks into the mirror and takes notice of a transparent but easily recognizable form standing behind her in the reflection. In a black suit with a red tie, a white buttoned shirt, black slacks and black shoes is the form of her previous husband, Charles H. Slyfox. His expression is not that of a vengeful individual, but rather the same loving expression he had always showed her when he was alive.

"My lovely Rose… You've grown even more beautiful…" the apparition says.

"Charles? Again… What in the world…" Amy says before she smiles. "How strange… Just what in the world is this?"

"It is as I promised you, my love. No matter what happens, I will always love you, I will always be with you." Charles says.

"Charles, there is no reason for you to be here…" Amy says.

"My lovely Rose, I know what has happened… I know that you are responsible for many deaths." Charles says.

"I would imagine so. My question is the same: why are you here? Are you expecting something of me?" Amy asks.

"Not at all, my lovely Rose. I am here because I want to be here. I want to continue to be close to the woman I love." Charles says.

"You are wasting whatever time in your afterlife you have, Charles. I have long since become happier in the life I have now." Amy says.

"My lovely Rose, you have tarnished your hands with blood, sweat, yet no tears. This is not the life you should have." Charles says.

"It is the life that I have, and the life that I want. It excites me, it truly makes me happy. And it is all thanks to Sonic, my new love." Amy says.

"My lovely Rose, you cannot deny the love that we shared, the life that we shared together; it was a happy life. Can you truly say that you were not happy?" Charles says.

"It was a calm life, not a happy one." Amy says as she turns to face the spirit directly. "Charles, you bored me. You bored me and you did not even realize it. How could you not notice your own wife was deprived of excitement?"

"I do not understand… You always appeared so happy…" Charles says.

"I put on a brave face… That is what a good wife does, even when deep inside they are slowly yearning for more. It was the same with the others. The only excitement I could get before was through murdering them… Now I do not need to do that, the man that I love now excites me almost more than I could handle in a day." Amy says with a smile.

"It is only a matter of time, my lovely Rose. This life is not the life you can live for long. You will yearn for a calm, peaceful life filled with love. This man is no good for you." Charles says.

Suddenly, Amy's eyes narrow as she takes out a handgun from her personal bag. For a moment, the deep green in her eyes darkens to a crimson red, her gaze unwavering as she points the gun to the reflection of Charles H. Slyfox, her finger pressed to the trigger. However, a soft knock on the door breaks her from her murderous gaze.

"Amy? All changed here, are you almost done?" Sonic's voice asks.

"Oh… Oh yes, I'll be out shortly." Amy says in her calm, happy voice.

"Oh okay, I'll see you out here then." Sonic says, smiling as he leans against the wall.

Once she turns back to the mirror, she takes a deep breath and puts the handgun back into her handbag before smiling to Charles.

"I won't allow you to ruin my happiness now. I know that you might want me to feel as though I made a mistake. In the end there is only one truth…" Amy says, turning to Charles. "The only mistake made was yours: for believing that I was the mild-mannered housewife for you."

"I will always be with you, my lovely Rose… Soon you will see… You will yearn for the life I gave you…" Charles says as he begins to fade before disappearing.

"I am no longer your "lovely Rose", Charles… I am Sonic's "Wicked Rose"." Amy says, smiling as she slowly walks out of the bathroom, walking into Sonic's arms.

"Everything all right?" Sonic asks, smiling as she kisses his lips.

"Purely paradise… Well, let us get in there." Amy says, smiling as she leads him into the meeting room.

Inside, the Family waits as they sit around a long wooden table, the glistening skyline of Port Pearllight shining through the windows. Bertucien sitting at the end of the table before standing and walking up to Sonic and Amy. He smiles as he lights his cigar, taking his hand out of his pocket and shaking Sonic's hand.

"We've met before but we didn't have an actual proper introduction. My name is Bertucien, the Father of the Family. I don't think I need to explain much regarding our organization." He says.

"No, that's all right. Amy gave me a bit of a heads-up, primarily just to not ask questions about it. My name is Sonic, Sonic the Hedgehog." Sonic says, smiling as he shakes his hand.

"You're the best thing that's happened in Miss Rose's life. I hope you know that, honestly. In the time that we've been under her employ, she's never expressed as much happiness as she has since she's met you." Bertucien says.

"I'm happy that I did meet her. I can't even begin to imagine my life without Amy." Sonic says, making Amy blush.

"All right you two, you can trade your little stories later. You have something to discuss with me, Bertucien?" Amy says.

"Ah yes, please have a seat Miss Rose, Sonic. Boys, let's begin the meeting." Bertucien says as his boys close the blinds across all the windows and lock the door. "Thank you. Miss Rose, it has come under our attention that a new bank situated in the center of the city will be receiving quite a substantial amount of money today."

"Is that right? What is the occasion?" Amy asks.

"Apparently one of the wealthy condo owners of the beach turns out to be a multimillionaire. Not only that, but he has felt the need to have his own bank built in order to house his wealth. According to my sources, there will be several armored trucks bringing in approximately 80 million rings in actual rings, printed rings, stocks and other valuables. A virtual treasure trove under lock and key." Bertucien says.

"This does sound very titillating… So you desire my assistance?" Amy asks.

"That's right, the both of you. It should be a very exciting time, robbing your first bank. Plus, we will need the kind of skills that you possess in order to make this a very smooth operation." Bertucien says.

"How many people do you have on this?" Sonic asks.

"Including the both of you, there will be 20 of my boys. Ten of them will be providing a distraction for the local authorities, which will prove to be necessary. We aren't dealing with run-of-the-mill police." Bertucien says.

"That's right. Administrator Eggman has one of the most efficient law enforcement forces in the country." Amy says.

Due to a powerful resentment and paranoia regarding the other districts potentially forcing their hand within the Pearl District, Administrator Eggman is the first and only Administrator to institute full robotic law enforcement. With this force connected to an entire grid of remote connections across the District, he can literally see and control all aspects of his District from a central point. Despite this, Eggman has a very passive attitude regarding the activities across his district: unless there is a homicide, he rarely uses the robots and simply leaves it to his District Marshal to handle.

"As such, the distraction will be necessary towards keeping the robot force busy until we're finished at the bank." Bertucien says.

"This will be doubly fun since it will be the first serious crime to befall the Pearl District in quite some time, to the best of my knowledge." Amy says smiling.

"Absolutely. Now I will go over the operation. I have a contact settled within the security force for the armored trucks and he has informed me of the schedule. At approximately 2:00 PM, the trucks will arrive at the First Veyscale Column Bank at the center of Giga Pearl City. It will take them about an hour and a half to remove all the money in the trucks and get it into each of the four vaults in the lower level of the bank. Once the security codes are put in, there will be a lull in activity in the bank during which security will be on their lunch breaks. The system is designed to immediately alert the robot guard and lead them to the location in less than five minutes. If we're discovered, that's how long we will have to leave the general area of detection." Bertucien says.

"You have a contact? How much regarding the operation did you tell them?" Amy asks.

"Only that we would be prepared to take the bank as soon as the time allowed. Is something wrong, Miss Rose?" Bertucien asks.

"The last person that you want to trust is this individual you have on their security team. If there is anyone that will be set to betray you, it will the one on their end of the fence." Amy says.

"You do not trust my internal?" Bertucien asks.

"I trust him as far as I cannot throw him. He has more to gain out of helping them put away the infamous Family than he does assisting in a bank heist. Why else do individuals turn informant? It is not out of some need to secure justice. They want to fulfill their own personal agenda, and that goes double for informants for criminal organizations." Amy says.

"Hmm I suppose I did not even consider that…" Bertucien says.

"There is a very simple test. Call him and tell him that instead of you arriving at the indicated time of 2:00 PM, tell him that you will be arriving around 3:00 PM. It is not typical for an operation like this to occur during rush hour. If he asks questions, then he is setting you up. If he tries to get you to keep to the schedule, he is setting you up. If he says nothing, there is a 50/50 chance he is setting you up." Amy says.

"Miss Rose, it appears that none of those scenarios leave my contact not potentially setting us up." Bertucien says.

"Exactly. You've been in this business for a long time, you should know one thing better than anything: do not trust any who are less capable than yourself." Amy says.

"Hmm you do make a valid point…" Bertucien says as he picks up his phone. "I'll perform the test now." He says before calling on his contact.

"Boss? What's happened?" the contact speaks on the phone in a hushed tone.

"Yes, there has been a change to plans. We will be conducting the operation at 3:00 PM rather than the scheduled 2:00 PM. Be prepared." Bertucien says.

"I…I understand, Boss. Something came up? Are…are the cops onto us?" the contact asks.

"That is primarily why we are changing the venue. That will not be an issue now, will it? If so, I need to know now before we get things under way." Bertucien says, paying attention to the change in his contact's voice.

"Not a problem at all, Boss… Not a problem at all. I'll be ready when you are." the contact says nervously, hanging up the phone.

"Miss Rose, your powers of perception never fail to amaze me. Turns out he was very much nervous about our change of plans." Bertucien says.

"That will be just fine. All we need to do is proceed with the plan and arrive at 2:00 PM. Your contact will have the opening ready for us regardless of where his allegiance lies. The schedule on their part will remain unchanged because it falls under the planning of the individual that owns the property. We'll arrive unannounced and kill the traitor before proceeding with the operation." Amy explains.

"Sounds good. That reminds me, have you picked out a code name for Sonic, Miss Rose?" Bertucien says.

"A… A code name?" Sonic asks.

"Oh yes… A simple one, all radio transmission towards Sonic will be under the code name "Blues". Simple." Amy says, smiling as she strokes his cheek with her finger.

"I like it… "Blues"… Yeah that I can work with." Sonic says with a nod, smiling as he holds her close.

"Well then, gentlemen… We will reconvene in a few hours. Do not be late." Amy says before she and Sonic leave the room.

"Let's get ourselves ready, boys. This will be our biggest heist yet…" Bertucien says, smiling as he puts out his cigar.

Port Pearllight Authority Administration Sector

Administration Building

12:45 PM…

As the afternoon heat touches the porcelain streets and sidewalks of the main section of the District's authority, the Administration Building stands like the needle of a compass; pointing directly at the shimmering sun. At the top floor, a large window shows the city in its entirety, in addition to several holographic monitors showing important areas of the city using stealth camera technology. The interior of this room is filled with various robotic types working different positions: several slimmer robots are looking over various holographic screens and holographic keyboards inputting information, two massive robotic sentinels stand at the entrance to the room and at the center is the Administrator himself, Administrator Eggman.

Eggman sits upon a large floating throne of sorts, wearing a large red, silk military coat with pearl-crafted shoulder décor, several decorative pins across his chest and a line of pearl buttons leading to the bottom of the coat. Under that is a pair of long black pants with large red leather boots with black soles. He also wears a pair of white gloves and his trademark black glasses just above his large bushy orange moustache. Atop his bald head is a military hat with the seal of his robotic military on it: a large pearl attached to a shield-like slate, complete with a black "E" printed at the center.

"What is the word regarding activities across my District?" Eggman asks in a commanding voice.

"Nothing outstanding, Sire. Merely the usual riffraff of vacationers and locals." One of his robotic minions replies.

"Another slow day beckons. At least aside from this…" Eggman says as he changes the view of one of the screens before him to the recording of Sally Acorn's admittance into the nearby hospital. "What is her status?"

"We'll be getting a report shortly, Sire. Shall we send your District Marshal to investigate the crime scene?" A second robotic minion replies.

"She will be here shortly… Speak of the devil." Eggman says as the doors open, revealing the District Marshal of the Pearl District.

As she approaches him, her distinctive smile turns several of the robotic minions to gaze upon her: A sultry white bat with an impressive bust and waistline, light blue eyes, tan skin in contrast with her bright white fur. She is wearing a long white trench coat, but the top buttons are undone; exposing her cleavage for all to see. Underneath, she is wearing long, black flair pants with her long white boots; heart tips attached. At her side is a holster with two pockets, each holding a white handgun.

"Now Doctor, that isn't a nice thing to say to a woman." The bat says coyly.

"I've no time for your nonsense, Rouge. You have an investigation to attend to at the intersection where the out-of-towner was picked up." Eggman says.

"I've already gotten the location where she is currently being attended to. What shall I do after I've compiled a report?" Rouge asks.

"If there's nothing that can be gleaned from her, then you will report back here." Eggman says.

"Understood, Sir. By the way…" Rouge says before turning from him. "You know the convention between all of the Districts will be coming up soon. Will you be changing your routine and actually attend this time?"

"You already know the answer to that. The moment I enter, my way of establishing and maintaining order will be called into question. I am in charge of this District and I will not have those aliens telling me how to run my territory. I will not be attending any of those meetings." Eggman says sternly.

"Far be it from me to try to change your mind, but I am going to reiterate: there is no one after your life, Sir. It has been several years now. If someone wanted to kill you, I am certain they would have." Rouge comments slyly, almost giggling.

"Yes, yes, if you are finished with your pointless nonsense, you've your duties to attend to." Eggman says before turning back to his floating monitors.

"Absolutely, Sir. Do try to get some fresh air today." Rouge says, laughing slightly as she flies out of the room.

"She's always got her jokes… But my answer remains: I will maintain absolute control." Eggman says before resuming his observation of the Pearl District.

As Rouge makes her way out of the building, she receives a message on her phone. She picks it up as she walks out of the door, surprised by the sender.

"Well now… This has been a long time coming…" She says, smiling as she gets into her car and proceeds to the hospital.

Port Pearllight – Saint Pearl Aquatica Hospital

1:20 PM…

The Saint Pearl Aquatica Hospital is a district-renowned hospital facility, known for its cutting edge technology for treating patients and offering top-of-the-line service for various ailments as well as long term treatments for disorders. It is a large facility that sits at the center of a pristine lake in the deep north of the Pearl District, amid towering trees and a mountain range around the back. It is constructed like a cathedral, using shimmering pearl bricks and black bricks, along with several columns holding the large ten-floor facility. Beneath the lake are several other smaller facilities, utilized mostly for long term patients since the underwater setting provides a more serene setting for treatments.

On the second floor of the facility is emergency care, where Sally is currently awakening after an entire evening of being treated for her injuries and for the sexual assault she endured. Her eyes slowly open and search the area around her, immediately uncertain as to where she is.

"Where…where am I?" she asks as she sits up, noticing the bandages around her arms and legs.

"Ah good, you've finally awoken." A female voice says just outside the door.

"Wh…what happened? Who are you?" Sally asks as the woman walks in.

"Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Rouge, Rouge the Bat. I am the District Marshal here at the Pearl District and I have been sent here to receive your statement before your deportation." Rouge explains.

"My… My deportation?" Sally asks.

"Yes. You only had a visitor's citizenship registration on your record, acquired after the doctors supplied us with your blood sample. Since you were involved in an incident that left you brutalized, we did not require a warrant to take your blood." Rouge explains. "As such, once you have sufficiently recovered from your injuries, you will be escorted back to the exit border. In any case, I am here to take your statement."

"Oh… I understand… Well, I was on my way from some partying and a bit of a little confrontation… And then when I was filling up my motorcycle for another trip, I was rammed off the road. I couldn't see their faces, but they definitely had a plan… Like someone told them to rape me. They could've killed me to prevent me from alerting authorities but they let me live…" Sally says.

"We were able to gain a fair degree of information from your rape test, ma'am. Ultimately, we had no individuals on record that were related to the semen sample that was found on your body. What this means is that unless you can provide some other details, we cannot begin a proper investigation into the suspects responsible for this act." Rouge says.

"I see… I suppose that makes sense." Sally says.

"For now, you just continue to rest. Once it is confirmed that you are good condition to be moving properly again, you will be pleasantly escorted to the border. If anything else comes to mind beforehand, then feel free to call me. However, once you cross the border again, there will be no further support on this end." Rouge explains.

"I understand. Thank you again for taking my statement… I hope I can think of anything else to help." Sally says as she lies back down.

"Not a problem at all, ma'am." Rouge says as she leaves the room. "Hmm, a sudden attack and rape by two individuals… it is certainly unheard of in this district. It sounds too organized to have been just a random attack by some sexual madmen. Then again, there has been an increase in drug activity as well in several areas of the district. I'll have to look into some of the other pending and solved investigations before I reach a verdict." Rouge says to herself before leaving the hospital.

"I'll be removed from the Pearl District… That means I have little time to make my move… I've got to do something about that woman. Something about her… Her gaze just doesn't seem safe at all. Plus… She's got an iron grip on Sonic…" Sally says before she closes her eyes, resting herself. "I won't let her have him…"

Port Pearllight – Giga Pearl City, Central Area

First Veyscale Column Bank

2:00 PM…

Sonic, Amy, and the Family arrive at the job site at 1:45 PM in order to set up various surveillance equipment, as well as setting up several watch points for members of the crime group to be able to act with incredible precision. Once preparations are complete, around 1:55 PM is when the group puts on their disguises and proceeds into the bank, with Amy waiting right where Bertucien's contact would be. He is shocked to see Amy, who is also in disguise but her gaze tells him immediately that she has some intent towards him.

"Can I help you, ma'am?" the contact asks as Amy approaches him.

"So you are the contact… Yes, you certainly thought you were going to work this completely into your favor, didn't you?" Amy says, surprising the contact.

"Wh…what? Just what are you getting at?" the contact asks, making sure his gun was resting at his side.

"I know what you were intending to do. You were intending to take part in the heist and then sell us out immediately afterwards to double your payout. Your intent was as obvious as the desire for cash." Amy says.

"You… You can't be serious… I want nothing more than the success of this mission." the contact says.

"You cannot fool me. It's time to take care of this little rub." Amy says, leaning in close to the contact before delivering a sharp stab to his chest with a syringe.

Before he can even react, he feels a sudden loss of muscle control as he falls to his knees. His entire body drops to the ground and he passes out, afterwards Amy drags his body into one of the service closets inside the bank. After locking the door shut, she checks her watch and sees the time hit 2:00 PM, to which she smiles and picks up her cell phone.

"Let's begin."

With that signal, everyone gathers to the center of the bank: a large circular room with a fountain at the center. Along the second floor of the central room is a security booth; where several members of The Family, including Bertucien, set themselves up. After disabling the recording equipment, the men return to the center where they meet up with Sonic and Amy.

"All right, let's bring in the equipment now." Amy says as several members bring in long wooden crates, opening them with crowbars before revealing several small metallic, circular pads connected with wires and small keypads. "Perfect, these will work excellently." Amy says.

"We're using supersonic devices to open the vaults?" Sonic says, looking over the equipment.

"Yes, it would've been too messy to use dynamite. Plus, we have the added touch of disabling any hidden surveillance equipment in the vaults or in the building itself. The vibrations from the sonic waves of these devices are way below what the normal ear can detect. As such, it will be highly unlikely that anyone will pick up on what's happening." Amy says, smiling as she strokes his cheek with the back of her hand.

"Plus, it enables us to make this a very swift operation. We put these on the door, we open it, we get what we want, we close the vaults, they automatically lock again and we're gone before anyone knows what happened." Bertucien says, smiling as his men begin placing the devices along the first vault. "Which reminds me, how many vaults are we opening?"

"According to the layout from the security booth, there are about 2.5 billion Rings in different forms in each of the six vaults of this bank. To keep it interesting, we will open only one vault." Amy says.

"You heard her, boys, just keep it to one vault." Bertucien says before turning to her. "I know we aren't really greedy but why only one?"

"It's not going to be easy to carry 2.5 billion, let alone anything higher than that. Besides, this is going to break the peaceful party visage that the Pearl District has maintained for quite a while. That's when things get fun." Amy says, grinning as the last device is set. "All right, set it off. Here you go, love." Amy says, handing Sonic a pair of heavy headphones.

"It may not be purely audible but the shockwaves will still hurt like hell if you aren't protected." Bertucien says before he walks back towards the door.

After a few seconds, the devices begin to shake slightly as they pump wave after wave of sonic sound into the vault. After about a minute, the door opens, revealing the riches that rest inside the locked drawers and smaller safes along the inner walls. Amy takes out a sheet of paper and then walks inside, checking along the walls before turning to the others.

"All right boys, here are the drawers you go into. Avoid the ones marked with an "X" on the mini map I gave you all before we got here. Those are loaded with dye packs that will go off even after the pummeling of sound waves. Let's make it snappy, we've got about 45 minutes to get out of here." Amy says as they all begin taking out the contents of the safe.

2:30 PM…

After a half an hour passes, the contents of the safe are loaded into the truck that The Family had brought to the site. At this time, Amy and Sonic emerge from the bank first, getting the truck in gear before he steps out and flashes a flashlight towards the glass front doors of the bank. After seeing the signal the criminals head out of the bank and hop into the back of the truck; their weapons drawn just in case they run into any issues on the way out.

"Looks like we're finishing up early here, Miss Rose!" One of the members of the Family exclaims as they stack up all the money.

"Indeed so. Let's get moving, more than likely we will come across the authorities on the way out." Amy says as Sonic hops in the driver's seat for the truck. "We're all set, love. Let's get on the road."

"All right, let's get moving." Sonic says, pressing his foot to the gas pedal as the truck begins rolling up to speed. The exit gates are rolled open as the truck rolls out, several other vehicles trailing behind with other members of the Family in tow to provide support. "So far, so good. Just gotta get to the drop point to stow this until we can move it." He says as he makes a turn.

"Which is fortunate, the sonic equipment won't keep going for much longer. We've got another 15 minutes to get as far as possible. Once those devices run their course, they will self-destruct and set off every alarm in that building." Amy says, moving up to the passenger side seat.

"We should be far enough from the site by the time that happens. If luck is on our side, we won't go right past the police cars on our way out." Bertucien remarks, checking the sonic soundwave equipment through remove display. "Shit, it looks like the equipment won't hold much longer."

"We're on the right track, head right to the port and we'll get this on the barge to get to the drop site." Amy says as Sonic turns down the road towards the port.

As the truck approaches the port, the sonic equipment begins to rattle and shake before catastrophically self-destructing; soon after the alarms begin to blast and the security robots scramble towards the bank. From within his offices, Administrator Eggman looks on his security monitors as the screens flicker to life along the bank's area.

"They finally come back… It appears to be the work of some professionals. Rouge, head to the site. See what you can find." He says as he marks the area.

"Understood, Sir. By the way, what is your prediction on this particular instance?" Rouge asks as she places the marked position on her tablet.

"My prediction is a professional group is involved. All the professionals that have been responsible for attempted bank robberies have been caught within 24 hours of the crime so I suspect the same to occur once the investigation is underway." Eggman says.

"Suppose we'll see what happens then." Rouge says before she flies out of the room and into her long white car. "A large scale bank robbery, huh? Haven't seen one of these recently…" She comments as she drives and arrives in front of the destroyed front entrance of the bank.

"CRIME REPORT: BANK ROBBERY – ESTIMATED PARTICIPANTS: OVER SIX INVIDIDUALS POSSIBLY INVOLVED – PROBABLE USAGE OF EQUIPMENT: ALARM DISRUPTIVE EQUIPMENT AT 10% POSSIBILITY." The Security Mechs display on written reports printing from the front of their chests.

"Hmm a good place to start. I'll head inside… Oh wait, I'd best speak with the owner first." Rouge says before she approaches Mr. Veyscale. Stanley Veyscale stands just outside his bank, shaking in fright as his black and red scales glisten in the sun; most of his body covered with a brown suit with a black buttoned shirt. His head is covered with a brown fedora and his feet are covered with black shoes.

"Sir, My name is Rouge. I am the District Marshal investigating this incident." She says, extending her arm to him as he shakes her hand shakily.

"To think that this could happen to MY new bank, just when I was just getting it started…" Mr. Veyscale says as he shakes his head.

"To my understanding, the bank was not fully cleaned out, correct?" Rouge says.

"That is correct. The thieves were merciful and left behind a fair amount of the ring currency I had here. Much of my clients and work associates have been cleaned out, however." Mr. Veyscale says, shaking his head as he looks over the building.

"Hmm I wonder… I wonder why they didn't take everything. The fact that they left some behind means they had a schedule, they had a plan. Truly a professional hit." Rouge says, marking things down on her tablet. "And the security equipment? Cameras, alarms, anything at all leave anything?"

"Unfortunately, all the equipment was destroyed. Yet there was no instance of explosives used. I don't know what they could've used to accomplish that." Mr. Veyscale says.

"I see… Thank you. This will be valuable for the investigation." Rouge says before giving him a sheet of paper. "Fill this out and we'll get the process started for you and your property to receive the proper insurance payout." She explains before returning to the security mech. "Administrator, I've got the report coming your way."

"Already here, Rouge. You can proceed with the investigation. It appears to be precisely what I thought: a professional job. The question is: who are the professionals and where are they now…" Eggman says as he looks over the report. "Suppose we shall see…"

Port Pearllight – Pearl Sparkling Sea Port, Outer Coast

Floating Barge

4:15 PM…

Following the successful robbery, Amy, Sonic and the criminal organization The Family float their way across the ocean towards the port. At the edge of the pier, several other disguised members stand in wait as the barge closes in; parking and being docked just as the ramp stretches onto the pavement.

"Looks like we're in the clear." Sonic says, slowly backing the truck out from the barge and onto the concrete landing of the pier.

"Indeed, we left very little at the scene of the crime. Now to drive up and unload everything inside the warehouse." Amy says, smiling as the truck leaves the barge and drives into the nearby warehouse.

Once the truck passes inside, the doors are swiftly shut by members of the organization; reaching up and opening the back of the truck to unload all of the packaged money. They place each palette of money onto the floor and move the bags into an upper office space where Bertucien also walks towards with his men.

"An excellent job, boys. We must heavily thank Miss Rose for her insight, otherwise we would've had a grave problem." He says, opening the office as both Sonic and Amy follow him inside. "So, Miss Rose, Sonic… What will you be doing now that the heist has been successful?" Bertucien asks.

"Actually, there are some interesting developments that are proceeding in the Emerald District. Soon, we'll be making a nice return there to see some old friends and move things along." Amy says, taking a seat beside Sonic across from Bertucien's large desk. "I have quite the feeling that there is great change coming."

"Great change, you say…?" Sonic asks, smiling towards her. "Very curious."

"Given the way we left and given our recent encounter with the District Marshal, I have a good feeling that things will be moving towards their fingers reaching into other districts. Which means that the D.S.A. may not last much longer. You know what that means." Amy explains, smiling as she rubs Sonic's hand in her own.

"Ah yes, if that no longer becomes an issue; it will make for some good business. No longer needing to keep things underground to detract suspicion will certainly make things easier. In comparison to Emerald though, Pearl has a relatively easy system to cheat." Bertucien explains.

"So when do you think we'll be returning?" Sonic asks.

"I would say… Within the next few days, things should start to pick up with the shifts in policies. Our good friends of the police department will certainly be working to get things underway." Amy says, grinning as she ran her fingers through her hair.

"Suppose so. We'll be keeping an eye on matters as they unfold and whenever you both are ready to return, we will of course take good care of you." Bertucien says as his men continue to conceal the money before he points out a significant portion of the money. "Miss Rose, that is your take. We'll be in touch of course."

"Thank you, Bertucien. Let's go home, Sonic." Amy says, smiling as they stand up. "It has been quite tiring…"

"You bet, let's head back." Sonic says, smiling before walking out with her.

Three Days Later…

Summit of District Administration – Superior Courthouse

New Mobius Centre

9:00 AM…

New Mobius, the name of the country that holds the multitude of districts named after gemstones; is the continent most populated in the world. At the center point where the districts collectively collide, a large, circular white-stone building with multiple points indicating each district sits with a large flag blowing in the wind. Several individuals march up the steps of the building and enter; walking into a large courtroom. The circular room holds several rows of seats with two sets of desks at the bottom center of the room; as well as multiple labeled podiums and a central tall podium.

Outside, a police car drives up and out steps Georgie, Keller and Andrea. All three officers are clad in long trench coats; Georgie wears a dark green coat, Andrea wears a deep pink coat, and Keller wears a dark blue coat. As they walk up the stairs into the courthouse, Georgie struggles to maintain a sense of calm. With a great deal hanging in the balance for the results of this meeting, the nerves begin to show.

"Oh man, I thought I would be fine…" Georgie says, sighing a bit as they reach the top and approach the doors.

"All right, just hold on. We're not going in there with you looking like that. Take a few breaths, we're still early." Keller says as he places his hand against Georgie's shoulder. "I know you're nervous, but you have no reason to be. You've been working for this moment."

"Keller is right, Georgie. We have confidence that you can shift the momentum in our favor. If we're going to move things forward, you have to convince the District Administrators to relinquish the D.S.A. policy." Andrea comments, rubbing the back of Georgie's neck. "Just try to stay calm, we're going to be there with you the entire time."

"Yes… Yes, you're right. I cannot falter now." Georgie says before shaking it off and stepping forward, opening the door for his fellow officers and entering just behind.

The interior of the Courthouse is a massive display of both art and strength. The floors are covered by white marble, with columns circling the circular hall made of black marble; the ceiling is covered with varying displays of art: including a shimmering sky, jewel-encrusted sun and moon, clouds and mountains. Against the walls are paintings depicting several judges of the past and the present, as well as glass-enclosed displays of tools for justice: handcuffs, written notebooks, large tomes of cases and other objects. The three officers enter the center-most courtroom, looking at the various District Administrators standing at their respective podiums.

"My goodness, how long has it been since the Admins have all been in the same room?" Andrea asks, taking a seat at the upper row of the courtroom.

"The last time I can remember specifically was about 10 years ago, and this was after the D.S.A. went into effect about 20 years ago." Keller says, taking a seat beside her with Georgie sitting on her other side.

"The fact that they came together again means that there may be hope…" Georgie says before the sound of a hammer cracking the top of one of the podiums goes off.

The various District Administrators stand around at different podiums: Administrator of the Emerald District, Erclawz G. Gervund. Going clockwise from Erclawz is the Administrator of the Pearl District, Doctor Eggman; who displays himself via a remote monitor system. Beside him is the Administrator of the Topaz District, Miles "Tails" Prower with Cream at his side. Next for the Garnet District is a dark-red robin with a long jet black pony tail reaching her lower back, crimson red eyes, red and black plumage and a long red and black dress; complete with knee-high black boots. A lone bang covers her left eye and the tip of her beak glistens with black lipstick. This is Caedisa Lu Vays, the Garnet District Administrator.

Next to her is the Sapphire District Administator, a large water-filled tank housing a dark-blue dolphin with a mane of silver hair, light blue eyes and a bright blue suit with a white shirt and black tie. He is the Sapphire Administrator, Aecorius Silvervein. Finally next to him is the Alexandrite District Administrator, a snow fur-colored fox with short-cut hair with black tips on her bangs; as well as at the end of her short ponytail. Her eyes shine gold to match the jewelry around her neck and wrists, as well as the gold and white suit she wears. Earrings holding Alexandrite stones hang from her ears as well as on the buckles attached to her heels. Her long white tail also ends with a black tip and her lips are evenly coated with a gilded lipstick. She is Alexandra Cielsa, Administrator of the Alexandrite District.

At the center of the podiums housing the Administrators is the Grand District Judge, essentially the mediator for the Admins. Once everyone settles into their chairs, he cracks the hammer once more in order to signal the start of the proceedings. "Ladies and Gentlemen, Wondrous Administrators of the Districts, thank you all for coming. Today marks yet another instance in which you have all come together. Unlike our previous meetings, this one holds a profound purpose. Today, a member of the Emerald District's law enforcement comes to us with a plea for change: he seeks to change your minds on a matter that has been a part of us all for some time. Mister Peacock, please come this way to the center." The Judge says, prompting Georgie to stand and straighten out his tie before stepping to the center of the room.

"Good morning, Administrators, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, assorted guests and members of the media. My name is Georgie the Peacock, serving Commissioner of the Emerald District and officer of the Emeraldberry Police Force. Today, I come to you with a plea for a change in how we approach justice. There have been many instances in which people who commit crimes have escaped answering for them. Why? Because they cross the district lines and can start their lives anew. These people can never be punished for their crimes because the D.S.A. prevents it from happening. That is why I am here; I seek to change the policy." Georgie says, earning a nod from Erclawz.

"Mister Peacock, I trust that you understand the weight of the request that you are making. To change our policy simply to allow you to continue your hunt for one criminal? We've all read the files regarding your investigation, so we are aware of your motivations for such a drastic change." Tails remarks as he closes a folder.

"Yes, it is true that there is a personal aspect to my coming here… But that pales in comparison to the injustices that have been consistent with cases like this. My investigation is not the only one where this has occurred." Georgie responds.

"We are all quite aware of the varying instances of criminals escaping by leaving the districts, Mister Peacock. However, to completely dissolve the D.S.A. would completely dissolve the means that we've avoided unnecessary prying and conflict." Eggman says.

"Granted, Doctor, the D.S.A. was formed as a result of nothing more than sheer paranoia; paranoia that had yet to be founded in any basis of need. To say that the D.S.A. concerns most of us would be rather false. It only concerns those that fear the world outside of their district." Caedisa remarks.

"What was that?!" Eggman shouts, unsettling Georgie already.

"Doctor, please. We are in a civil environment. There is no need for outbursts." Aecorius comments. "Now then, back on track. Mister Peacock, just what would you propose? It does not sound like you want to completely dissolve the D.S.A."

"Yes, that is correct. I do not seek complete dissolution. I want to simply make a request for an amendment to the D.S.A., one that would allow for the cross-district criminal investigation when it comes to criminals leaving district lines." Georgie explains.

"Well that sounds reasonable enough." Alexandra states. "However, you do understand that this is quite a request, in light of the fact that the District Separation Act has been in effect for as long as the Districts were formed. The only one among us that hasn't changed chairs has been Doctor Eggman."

"There is none that could take my place as the Administrator of the Pearl District." Eggman replies. "Now anyway, I still say that there is substantial reasoning to say that this could turn out to be a problem. I don't know about the rest of you, but to open walls that have been shut for years will be like cracking open a dam!"

"Eggman, you are the only one that has been concerned about such an instance; you have also since refused mental assessments that would confirm your capability to remain in a leadership position." Erclawz states. "But that is not what the discussion is about."

"Correct, we're here for the sake of opening other doors. Most importantly, it is something we should discuss to make sure we do not leave anything missing as far as maintaining calm between the districts. For the moment, we shall take the time to discuss what we've talked about today." Tails comments, the others nodding their heads.

"This is an outrage! I will not be thrown into obscurity because you all wish to follow the requests of this bleeding heart sad excuse for a police officer!" Eggman shouts in anger.

"Doctor, please do not embarrass yourself or the rest of us any longer. You are a District Administrator for the moment, but that can and will be addressed should this continue." Caedisa explains. "Please excuse us, Mr. Peacock. We need to talk."

"Certainly… Thank you again for your time and attention." Georgie says before turning and leaving the courtroom, leaving the Administrators in discussion.

~So ends Chapter 16 of the Wicked Rose. Coming up, the Administrators make their decision, the country experiences a radical change and the investigation heats up as Sonic and Amy make their bold return to the Emerald District. Stay tuned!