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CrystalPhoenixBlader here, bringing in a new chapter to the fanfic! Well, it’s time to shift gears from Sonic to Shadow for the next part of the story. But now, the Ultimate Lifeform is about to meet another of the Arcana Maidens, though unlike Sonic, there will be tension there. So be prepared.

Before I forget, disclaimer time; I do not own any of the Sonic characters or the Arcana Heart characters; the Sonic characters belong to SEGA and Sonic Team, and the Arcana Heart characters belong to EXAMU and Arc System Works. So, Standby, Angels and Hedgehog Hero! ACTION!
..Oh, and Ultimate Lifeform, too!

*Opening Theme: “Yume wa Arukana?” (Arcana Heart)*

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: CHAOTIC ARCANA
CHAPTER 10
SHADOW AND LIESELOTTE

*Graveyard*

*Insert Theme: “Graveyard” (The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess)*

It was a rainy day in a lone graveyard as Shadow the Hedgehog got his motorcycle, the Dark Rider, to a halt. The very atmosphere of the graveyard reeked of death and decay. However, it did nothing to alter Shadow’s stoic demeanor within his glare as he dismounted his bike and reached into a G.U.N. print duffle bag attached to the vehicle. The ebony hedgehog opened the bag and pulled out a lone gun, a single dark grey pistol often used by G.U.N. Soldiers in the line of duty. As Shadow touched the weapon, a dark melancholic feeling echoed in his mind. “I was hoping to never use a weapon like this again, ever since I put my past behind me, but the situation may call for it, concerning who the girl in the wanted poster is that the Commander warned me about.

*End Theme*

*FLASHBACK*

*G.U.N. Headquarters – Commander’s Office*

*Insert Theme: “Strategy” (Shadow the Hedgehog OST)*

Shadow stood inside the office of G.U.N.’s supreme commander, Abraham Tower, a man of over fifty years old with Caucasian skin, bearing lined grey hair and heterochromatic eyes of green and brown. He wears a grey uniform of the position he bears, adorned with a sash and ribbons of yellow, red and blue. As such, his exterior, as well as his stern personality, befit one of command.

The man then turned to Shadow and began to speak. “Shadow, it is good that you have come.”

“Commander Tower, sir. What mission do you need me for?” Shadow saluted as he readied himself for whatever top-priority mission he has for him. Ever since the conclusion of the Black Arms Incident, the Commander, who once had a deep-seated hatred for the black hedgehog for the death of Maria Robotnik, the granddaughter of renowned genius scientist and also grandfather of Eggman, Professor Gerald Robotnik, he was able to mend the issues he once had with the Ultimate Lifeform and grant him a position as part of G.U.N.’s top agents, even going as far as making the black hedgehog and two comrades of his, Rouge the Bat, a freelance treasure hunter and spy on loan for G.U.N., and E-123 Omega, the last and most powerful of Eggman’s E-Series robots, members of the group ‘Team Dark’.

“Straight to the point as always. I’ll get right to it.” The Commander now before showing a holographic picture of a girl with orange eyes that look close to red, short, boyish-cut hair of white worn with a big black frilled headband with a long red ribbon tied on each side of her head. She wore a frilly black and white dress reminiscent of a maid uniform and black boots with thick platforms, making her slightly taller than she looks.

“A girl? Sure, there is more than this to call me here.” Shadow did not seem convinced of the girl but held his doubt in check as Commander Tower explained. “Indeed. Her name is Lieselotte Achenbach, otherwise known as the ‘Crimson Eyed Criminal’. Despite her age, she is a highly skilled assassin, with records of successful assassinations. We have recently sent a few agents to intervene with her, but… so far, we have not heard a word from them since. Word has it that she is employed now by a group called the Celestial Union.” The hologram image changed to a map of the world, which zoomed to a specific spot in Japan. “She was last seen at a graveyard near Tokyo, Japan, but so far, no hostilities have occurred, other than irregularities that have occurred recently. You must head over there and confirm her reliability. If, by any chance that hostilities occur from her, do not hesitate to take her out. Are my orders clear?”

“Understood. I’ll be heading out immediately.” Shadow heard the orders loud and clear, but before he could excuse himself, Commander Tower halted him for a moment. “Before you go, take this communicator with you. Should you have need of assistance, Rouge and Omega are on standby and will head to your current position as soon as possible.” The man then concluded his mission report as he turned to the window. “That is all. Dismissed.”

“Roger that, Commander Tower.” With that, Shadow stashed the communicator away and saluted before heading out the door. As the black hedgehog left for the garage in where his Dark Rider was parked, the man stared out the window and spoke quietly. “You’d best be prepared Shadow. What we are experiencing right now is only a precursor for what is to come, and I have a feeling that Sonic the Hedgehog and his friends may already be caught in the flow.”
As he watched the scenery out the window, a newspaper laid on the man’s desk; the topic being the would-be incident on Tanega Island, with a red circle on one word precisely…. ‘Ragnarök’.

*End Theme*

*FLASHBACK END*

Shadow’s mind flashed back to the present as he loaded the pistol with a fresh clip of ammo. “If what the Commander said is true, this girl, Lieselotte, may be more dangerous than she looks. I’d better tread lightly.” Done with his preparations. Shadow placed his pistol on his person and walked inside the grave yard.

*Graveyard ~ Pathway*

As expected, the graveyard was filled with tombstones of those who passed away, lined with flowers. The rain continued to pour, and yet Shadow continued unflinchingly as he looked around. His movement then halted when he saw the girl he saw on the commander’s holograph projection standing quietly in front of one gravestone, one of little importance.

*Insert Theme: “Moonlight Nocturne” (Arcana Heart)* (a.k.a. Lieselotte’s theme)

“…Who are you? I’ve never seen you around before.” Without even eying the lone hedgehog and even any emotion, Lieselotte spoke, as if she anticipated unforeseen company. The black hedgehog, sensing no hostility for the moment, decided to humor her by simply answering her question. “Shadow the Hedgehog. The Ultimate Lifeform.”

“You have a weapon on you, and yet… you do not draw it out. Either you must be brave… or you must be willing to die.” Lieselotte spoke again, again showing no emotion. Shadow, however, was not fazed as he spoke again. “You’re not the first one to give me a death threat. However, I have only come here to talk to you… if you are willing.”

The girl, holding a lone puppet holding the soul of her deceased sister Elfriede, turned to the black hedgehog, who stood a row of graves behind her. “I see… so you’re THE Shadow the Hedgehog… I see death in your eyes… and pain. A person you held dear was taken from you long ago… and your creator, torn from the death to insanity, tampered with your memories… so that you would only know revenge.”

“I am not proud of it. I remember it was Amy Rose who reminded me of Maria’s true promise… to bring hope to humanity.” Shadow crossed his arms and closed his eyes. Lieselotte walked closer to the hedgehog as she spoke again. “And what of your blood, born from the Black Arms? What of the people you had slain? You can’t very well be fighting for humanity if you’re actions were against them.”

Still, Shadow was apathetic as he turned around and spoke again. “I cannot deny of what I have done. Nonetheless, I make my own destiny and left all that behind me. So, don’t bother trying to deceive me.”

For a good couple of minutes, all that happened was a complete staring contest between the two. Not even the sights of two pools of blood, with recognizable signs to the black hedgehog, would make him flinch, nor the gaze of his crimson eyes sway the girl, who bears the Arcana of Darkness Gier. But sooner or later, one would lose focus as it turned out a single speck of dust irritated Lieselotte’s eyes.

“..It seems the time for talk is over.” Lieselotte, realizing that trying to intimidate Shadow was completely futile, but before the two could assume a fighting position, with Shadow pulling out his pistol and Lieselotte holding her puppet, a red light burst through the clouds and engulfed Shadow, who stood in shock. “Wha… WHAT IS THIS?!”

*End Theme*

*???*

Shadow was blinded by the red light, and when his crimson red irises opened, he was in an unknown space. Getting himself together, the Ultimate Lifeform looked around. “Where am I? And how did I get here?”

“I can tell you are confused. That is natural, seeing as you are from the same realm as the knave of a blue hedgehog.” To Shadow’s surprise, a voice sounding completely like his own echoes in the area… right behind him!

With his natural quick instincts, Shadow quickly turned around, only to be even more confused as he saw what looked completely like him, but the clear differences were a knight’s visor covering his eyes completely, a dark grey cuirass on his torso, armored gloves in place of Shadow’s cloth gloves, and armored shoes in contrast to Shadow’s own.

*Insert Theme: “To the Ancient Soleanna Castle” (Sonic the Hedgehog 2006)*

“Who are you?! Are you… me?!” Shadow was completely on edge as he looked at the mysterious figure that appeared before him. The armored stranger took the aggression in stride as he crossed his arms. “Yes. And no. Alas, I am you, but in another life, in a different realm.”

“A different realm?” Shadow could sense that the stranger was not lying and relaxed his guard somewhat. The stranger then lifts his visor to show further proof, that being his own crimson red eyes.” “In the realm of Camelot, land of King Arthur, I am known as Lancelot, Knight of the Lake.”

“Lancelot? You mean… the greatest of the Knights of the Round Table?” Shadow was very intrigued by Lancelot’s introduction, to which the knight nodded. “Indeed. Forgive me for lack of humility, but as you call yourself the Ultimate Lifeform, I myself am the Ultimate Knight. From what I surmise, you’ve encountered one of the Arcana Maidens, one with a dark past much like yours.”

“Arcana Maiden?” Shadow kept his cool but was clearly intrigued by what his alternate self said. “Yes. Young women who possess immense power through their bonds with Arcana Spirits, powerful beings of extraordinary might. Recently, in only a few days, due to a recent incident, that fool of a knight whom you call ‘Faker’ has established a link with my liege, who has become an Arcana Spirit himself long after death, marking him as the first ever male Arcana Knight. With their combined strength, that fool, Sonic the Hedgehog, was able to overpower the instigator of the incident, Mildred Avallonne, as hard to believe as it is. Perhaps the sacred sword Caliburn really did have a knack for choosing who would have the crown of Camelot… who is to say?”

“You mean Sonic is involved as well? Not surprising, considering how he always loved to have the spotlight. And soon, his own friends would end up involved as well.” Shadow was unfazed for the information he was given. “But why are you telling me this?”

“To prepare you for what is to come, especially with THIS!” Lancelot quickly answered Shadow’s question without delay as he quickly pulled out his own sacred sword and held it in reverse grip.

“Is that…?” Shadow, familiar with the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, eyed the blade as he turned his gaze back to its chosen wielder. “Arondight. One of the finest swords in the entire kingdom, said to never lose its edge no matter how many times it is wielded. With this blade, you should be on even terms with the bearer of the Arcana of Darkness. With my blessing, and that of the Arcana Realm’s own, let my blade be yours to wield.”

Shadow then had a moment to think before finally making his decision. “My destiny is mine’s to decide; no one else’s, least of all, paranormal beings. But nonetheless, I shall accept your sword to carve my own path.”

“That too is fine. In a sense, you are me, and I am you, just living alternate lives. Carve your own path, Shadow the Hedgehog.” Agreeing with the Ultimate Lifeform, Lancelot handed Arondight to Shadow… before taking a bow and disappearing from sight without even leaving a trace.

Shadow looked at the blade he held, awed at the glimmer that seems to have withstood time, then looked at his pistol, then looking at an item he stashed away in his person in reserve, put away just in case. Having a rare satisfied grin, the Ultimate Lifeform felt truly ready for his upcoming battle. “The power of the Ultimate Knight, in combination with that of the Ultimate Lifeform… quite poetic when you think about it.”

*End Theme*

*Graveyard*

Shadow opened his eyes and found himself back in the graveyard, face to face with Lieselotte. The only thing that changed is that Arondight was still held in Shadow’s right hand in reverse grip. The black hedgehog, realizing how real the blade is in his hands, returned his attention back to the girl, who seemed slightly unnerved, however her face did not seem to show it. “…It seems you have a new toy to play with… however… do you really want to die THAT badly?”

“I should be asking you the same question.” Shadow replied as he went into a steady stance and braced himself for battle.

*MEANWHILE…*

*Mei Ling’s Laboratory*

“So, he’s one of your biggest rivals? This… ‘Shadow’ was it?” Saki took the time to ask Sonic about the black hedgehog that was one of his biggest rivals up to date, with Heart equally as interested.

“Yep, Shadow may be really moody, but he’s always known what to do when he gets into a situation.” Sonic smiled, not worried at the very least of the black hedgehog. “I first met him during the Space Colony ARK problem when I was framed for his own crimes, enough that G.U.N. was after me!”

“What I don’t understand is how they could mistake the colors blue for black. The very thought astounds me!” Petra too voiced her opinion as she disproved the framing in the first place, seeing Sonic’s honest actions in battle with her own eyes. “I hear ya. But that’s in the past.”

“Excuse me, Miss Petra.” Sure enough, Elsa joined in the conversation, with Clarice close by.

“Yes, Elsa?” Petra turned to her subordinate, who responded with urgency in her tone. “We just got a call from headquarters. Lieselotte has challenged some black hedgehog into battle.”

“Black hedgehog? Must be Shadow.” Sonic quickly figured out who the opponents before folding his arms behind his spiny head. “Eh, he can take care of himself there.”

“And you are?” Elsa then turned to Sonic, who casually took things to stride. “Sonic. Sonic the Hedgehog.”

“Elsa La Conti. With me is Clarice di Lanza.” Elsa, ever the serious woman, introduced herself and her partner, who then walked to Sonic. “My my, the little hero who defeated Mildred. You’re a littler taller than I expected~!”

“Okay… why did she sound like Rouge when she tries to sweet-talk Knuckles?” Sonic was slightly unnerved before quickly regaining his posture. Nonetheless, Clarice introduced herself. “Clarice di Lanza. I’m part of the Celestial Union alongside Petra and Elsa. In fact, in a way, you could say I am like Petra’s older sister.” But then, a dark aura emanated from her frame as she slowly opened her eyes, which seemed demonic. “But if you think of getting too chummy with Elsa… then there may be problems.”

Sonic’s quills stood on end as he clearly read the vibrations in the air around him. “Whoa… don’t worry. I’m no romantic type. Besides, I’d rather be out and about!”

Fortunately, the hedgehog seemed to ease the situation in a heartbeat as the Clarice’s eyes seemed to close and she seemed to return to her cheerful self. “Okay. You seem well mannered, although a little impatient with getting back to topic.”

“Note to self, NEVER make this lady angry. She makes Amy seem completely tame in comparison!” Sonic sighed as he pretty much veered himself out of the sudden danger he was in. Seeing a chance to return to the topic with Shadow, the blue hedgehog spoke again. “Anyways, with what I witnessed recently, I think Shadow’s got things under control without my help.”

“You certain, Sonic the Hedgehog? Lieselotte IS infamously known as the Crimson Eyed Criminal after all. I have a feeling that your friend is running off to his own grave, considering Lieselotte’s power.” Elsa wanted to be cautious concerning the girl’s reputation, but Sonic was unfazed. “Don’t worry! Shadow isn’t called the Ultimate Lifeform for nothing! If things get bad, he’ll just use a Chaos Emerald to use Chaos Control and teleport himself before the girl could blink!”

“Chaos Emerald?” Clarice quickly responded before she reached into her pockets and pulled out a familiar blue gemstone. “Hmmhmmhmm… Would it have anything to do with this beautiful little gemstone I found some time ago?”

“Huh?” Sonic turned to Clarice, but when he saw the blue gem in her hand levitate on its own power, his quills stood on end in complete shock. “NO WAY!!! YOU ALREADY GOT A CHAOS EMERALD?!”

Hearing the name quickly got the attention of Heart, Saki, Kamui, and Konoha, the latter just hanging out with Tails for a bit. As the four girls stare at the gem, the pink haired girl was the first to react. “Suggoi… it’s so pretty!”

“So THIS is one of the seven Chaos Emeralds... despite it’s small size it is radiating quite a measurable amount of power.” Kamui examined the gem with her ever sharp gaze.

“Yeah, those gems have helped a lot in the past. Get all seven of them, then the ultimate power is unleashed.” Sonic spoke as he recalled all the times he had gathered the Emeralds, originally intent on keeping them safe from Eggman during his first encounter with the mad scientist on South Island. Petra then got close as she too looked at the gem. “With the amount of power the gem has on its own, if one were to gather all of them, then there would be no telling HOW powerful that being would become. Power… to even rule the world.”

“Yes, I agree. Fortunately, the one who used them the most, as records have shown, was Sonic here. Records also state that when he is done with the gems, he disperses them to different random locations before returning back to his original state.” Kamui spoke as she had recalled the legends of the gems. “As well as the matter of the more powerful Master Emerald.”

“Oh, that? That’s the big Emerald that controls the power of the Chaos Emeralds. There’s even a prayer that goes with it. ‘The Servers are the seven Chaos. Chaos is Power, power that is enriched by the Heart. The Controller serves to unify the Chaos. Even to this day, I still don’t know when that all means.” Sonic spoke, recalling the prayer that Knuckles, being the last of the echidna clan spoke before.

“Then is it okay if we check it out?” Heart smiled as she had stars in her eyes, but Sonic still remembered one detail about the gem, while keeping one other… detail in a quiet tone. “Well… you’d have to talk with my pal Knuckles about it. He’s the guardian of it after all. Despite how many times he was duped…”

Little did anyone know; the whole group was being watched by one person hiding in the shadows… a young woman with spiky scarlet red hair done in very long twintails wearing a thick high collar purple cape over a black bra and purple shorts.

“Ara ara, aren’t they all chummy with that blue hero? And all that talk about the Emeralds, as well as its Controller. Perhaps a little peek would be nice. But more importantly… I am curious of this ‘Guardian’.” The woman quietly spoke as she disappeared into the shadows…

“Anyways, we are getting off topic. If your friend Shadow is up against Lieselotte, then he may be in peril, regardless of his own power and experience.” Petra then went back to the topic in hand, but Sonic still was unfazed as he knew his ebony rival very well. “Ah, Shadow will be okay. Odds are that, if I know him well, he’s already got a Chaos Emerald in his possession already.”

*Graveyard*

*Insert Theme: “Shut Up Faker! ~ Sonic vs. Shadow Battle 1” (Sonic Adventure 2)*

The area became rife with Chaos energy and dark power as Shadow and Lieselotte waste no time in going on the offensive. Shadow parried Lieselotte’s doll as it was launched out of the girl’s suitcase with Arondight as he let loose one of his trademark Chaos Spears at the girl, only for her to effortlessly hover off to dodge the attack. Sure enough, that gave Shadow the chance to go into as Spin Dash of his own and collide with the girl, only for her to block with her own suitcase before trying to whack him off. Fortunately for Shadow, he landed in a backward skid on his feet as he skates towards his opponent.

And sure enough, tombstones were getting destroyed in the battle…

*WHAM!!!* *POW!* *BOOM!* *SMACK!!!* *BOOM!*

*A Few minutes later…*

The battle between Lieselotte and Shadow lasted a good while, with both of them nicked from the blows they exchanged and feeling a little out of breath. Lieselotte tightly gripped her suitcase as she eyed the ebony hedgehog yet keeping her stoic gaze. “Your reputation as the Ultimate Life Form… seems to be well founded. Never have I faced anyone who’s last against me this long.”

“The same can be said for you, girl.” Shadow kept his own gaze as he eyed Lieselotte’s orange eyes but noticed something off. Shadow’s suspicions rang true as Lieselotte fired her doll out of her briefcase at Shadow, catching him off guard and hitting him in the torso. As he winced, the ebony hedgehog’s eyes widen in shock as the girl seemed to vanish and large glowing red eyes encircle him.

“Damn, got careless! Didn’t notice that she hid her trump card until now!” Shadow gritted his teeth, but then remembered in his mind that HE had something saved up in a pinch like this one.

As the glowing eyes began to gaze close at him, razor sharp red claws seemed to slash relentlessly at Shadow. The view changed to Lieselotte sitting on her suitcase, drinking a cup of tea, near a cross that appeared near Shadow’s body. “You are strong indeed, Shadow the Hedgehog. But I believe our little playtime… is over.” Soon after, a red shockwave under Shadow struck him and seemed to have rendered him unconscious, due to the effects of her own Critical heart, ‘Crimson Meltzin Stained Night’.

*End Theme*

…If only defeating the black hedgehog was THAT easy…

*Insert Theme: “Throw it All Away ~ Theme of Shadow the Hedgehog (Instrumental)” (Sonic Adventure 2)*

“I have to admit, if what attack you have done DID hit me, I would be down by now.” A familiar voice echoed in the darkness, leaving Lieselotte in a rare gesture of shock. Little did the Maiden anticipate, the ebony hedgehog stood back-to-back with her, holding a bright red gem in his left hand. “But thanks to Chaos Control, I managed to stop time temporarily to give me a chance to escape.”

“Wait a minute… if you are behind me… then what did I…?” Lieselotte was rarely shocked, but this was one moment that she could not hide the expression in her eyes. As she looked at what she thought was the black hedgehog. It turned out to a large plush doll resembling Sonic… now a completely ruined pile of cotton fluff!

“Heh, who would have thought one of the dolls used by the Doctor for his training dummies would end up useful?” Shadow grinned as he recalled taking one of the dolls from one of Eggman’s bases, as it was originally used for the testing of his E-Series robots and any future models in mind. Shadow originally intended the personal use of the doll for stress relief. What irony was it that is was used to save him.

Lieselotte looked at the damaged doll and looked at the shape. “That doll, as badly damaged as it is…. looks like Sonic the Hedgehog, but the eyes are beady black…”

Soon after, the girl, feeling great fatigue, fell to her knees.

*End Theme*

“I believe the battle is over. However, out of respect of your skill and the second report given to me by the Commander saying that you lent your aid to this… ‘Celestial Union’ to stop some incident of a massive scale, I will spare you. On the other hand, I will report the deaths of the two agents of GUN to HQ. In defense, they probably attacked you first, seeing as I see bullet holes on the graves.”

Lieselotte stared at Shadow in disbelief as she asked one thing. “Why… would you spare me?”

Shadow sighed as he hoisted Arondight over his shoulder and spoke. “I know what it is like to be alone, after what happened to Maria. For a while, I did not trust humans, but it was thanks to Prof. Gerald’s video, apologizing for what has happened and saying that I was the only hope against the Black Arms. After I killed Black Doom, their leader to whom my blood came from and used the Eclipse Cannon on the Space Colony ARK to destroy the Black Comet, I decided to put my past behind me. Certainly, you have someone who wishes to see you happy, just as Maria did for me?”

“…Heart… Aino… and… Zenia… Valov.” Lieselotte spoke as she looked down on the ground. As she looked up again, the girl saw Shadow extend his hand to her. The girl was reluctant as first, but after some careful consideration, accepted the hedgehog’s gesture and stood up. Still keeping her stoic gaze, she looked at Shadow and spoke. “…Thank you… Shadow.”

*Insert Theme: “Serious Feeling” (Arcana Heart 3)*

“It seemed you were busy, Lieselotte.” As if from nowhere, a voice echoed in the graveyard; it’s source belonging to a young woman having white hair the same shade as Lieselotte’s own, amber eyes, a black trench coat with the right sleeve cut over a pale blue sleeveless shirt adorned with a loose red tie.She also wears a short black form fit skirt going up the corners, sheer black tights, a blue fingerless glove on her left hand, and a gold and red gauntlet on her right hand. In addition, white metallic armor covers her feet, as well as her legs being adorned with black and gold leg ornaments.

“Who are you?” Shadow eyed the new woman with suspicion in his eyes, to which the newcomer, with her calm and stoic expression, cut straight to the chase to with her introduction. “Zenia Valov. Seems you gained Lieselotte’s favor a lot better than those two did.” She in fact, eyeing the dead GUN agents, but before Shadow could say more, Lieselotte spoke again, this time with a more favorable tone. ‘…Sister.”

“Wha, sister?!” Shadow was caught off guard but Zenia spoke again. “It’s a tough subject. Come with us and I’ll explain.”

Shadow eyed Zenia for a moment before making his decision. He pulled out his communicator and put away the Red Chaos Emerald. “Shadow to HQ, requesting backup to retrieve the bodies of the dead agents. Also, call off the search for Lieselotte Achenbach. It seems she is willing to comply to me only for the time being.”

“Understood, Shadow. We’ll get right on it. Good work. We’ll leave the rest to you.” Commander Tower responded to Shadow’s call and ended his transmission immediately.

Seeing the deed done, Shadow turned to Zenia and spoke. “Let’s leave this graveyard so I can listen to what you have to say.”
“Very well. I’ll speak to where my sister and I come in… and what happened to us.” Zenia, being straight to the point, accepted to the hedgehog’s request, and with that, the two Maidens and the Ultimate Lifeform take their leave of the graveyard.

By the time the GUN infantrymen arrive at the graveyard to take care of the bodies of their fallen, Shadow, Lieselotte, and Zenia were nowhere to be seen.

*End Theme*

Geez, this was a doozy. Trying to get back on track, only to keep getting waylaid trying to find inspiration for continuing the fanfic. And sorry if I rushed the battle a bit. I was having trouble and will try better next time. But anyways, Shadow leaves the graveyard with Lieselotte and Zenia, but what did the girl mean by ‘sister’? What the is the connection between the two girls? Find out next time!

On another end, the crossover game ‘Blazblue: Cross Tag Battle’ has added the Arcana Heart series as the fifth Fate, with the pink crystal and Heart Aino to represent it, just as much as Blazblue has Ragna the Bloodedge with the blue crystal, Yu Narukami of the Persona series, specifically its fighting game ‘Persona 4 Arena’, with the yellow crystal, Hyde Kido of ‘Under Night: In-Birth’ with the purple crystal, and Ruby Rose of Monty Oum’s masterpiece RWBY with the red crystal.

But then they tease us with a sixth Fate, the only clue being a light blue crystal… what is it? I may have a few clues, but they are vague at best…

Description
CrystalPhoenixBlader here, bringing in a new chapter to the fanfic! Well, it’s time to shift gears from Sonic to Shadow for the next part of the story. But now, the Ultimate Lifeform is about to meet another of the Arcana Maidens, though unlike Sonic, there will be tension there. So be prepared.

Before I forget, disclaimer time; I do not own any of the Sonic characters or the Arcana Heart characters; the Sonic characters belong to SEGA and Sonic Team, and the Arcana Heart characters belong to EXAMU and Arc System Works. So, Standby, Angels and Hedgehog Hero! ACTION!
..Oh, and Ultimate Lifeform, too!

*Opening Theme: “Yume wa Arukana?” (Arcana Heart)*

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG: CHAOTIC ARCANA
CHAPTER 10
SHADOW AND LIESELOTTE

*Graveyard*

*Insert Theme: “Graveyard” (The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess)*

It was a rainy day in a lone graveyard as Shadow the Hedgehog got his motorcycle, the Dark Rider, to a halt. The very atmosphere of the graveyard reeked of death and decay. However, it did nothing to alter Shadow’s stoic demeanor within his glare as he dismounted his bike and reached into a G.U.N. print duffle bag attached to the vehicle. The ebony hedgehog opened the bag and pulled out a lone gun, a single dark grey pistol often used by G.U.N. Soldiers in the line of duty. As Shadow touched the weapon, a dark melancholic feeling echoed in his mind. “I was hoping to never use a weapon like this again, ever since I put my past behind me, but the situation may call for it, concerning who the girl in the wanted poster is that the Commander warned me about.

*End Theme*

*FLASHBACK*

*G.U.N. Headquarters – Commander’s Office*

*Insert Theme: “Strategy” (Shadow the Hedgehog OST)*

Shadow stood inside the office of G.U.N.’s supreme commander, Abraham Tower, a man of over fifty years old with Caucasian skin, bearing lined grey hair and heterochromatic eyes of green and brown. He wears a grey uniform of the position he bears, adorned with a sash and ribbons of yellow, red and blue. As such, his exterior, as well as his stern personality, befit one of command.

The man then turned to Shadow and began to speak. “Shadow, it is good that you have come.”

“Commander Tower, sir. What mission do you need me for?” Shadow saluted as he readied himself for whatever top-priority mission he has for him. Ever since the conclusion of the Black Arms Incident, the Commander, who once had a deep-seated hatred for the black hedgehog for the death of Maria Robotnik, the granddaughter of renowned genius scientist and also grandfather of Eggman, Professor Gerald Robotnik, he was able to mend the issues he once had with the Ultimate Lifeform and grant him a position as part of G.U.N.’s top agents, even going as far as making the black hedgehog and two comrades of his, Rouge the Bat, a freelance treasure hunter and spy on loan for G.U.N., and E-123 Omega, the last and most powerful of Eggman’s E-Series robots, members of the group ‘Team Dark’.

“Straight to the point as always. I’ll get right to it.” The Commander now before showing a holographic picture of a girl with orange eyes that look close to red, short, boyish-cut hair of white worn with a big black frilled headband with a long red ribbon tied on each side of her head. She wore a frilly black and white dress reminiscent of a maid uniform and black boots with thick platforms, making her slightly taller than she looks.

“A girl? Sure, there is more than this to call me here.” Shadow did not seem convinced of the girl but held his doubt in check as Commander Tower explained. “Indeed. Her name is Lieselotte Achenbach, otherwise known as the ‘Crimson Eyed Criminal’. Despite her age, she is a highly skilled assassin, with records of successful assassinations. We have recently sent a few agents to intervene with her, but… so far, we have not heard a word from them since. Word has it that she is employed now by a group called the Celestial Union.” The hologram image changed to a map of the world, which zoomed to a specific spot in Japan. “She was last seen at a graveyard near Tokyo, Japan, but so far, no hostilities have occurred, other than irregularities that have occurred recently. You must head over there and confirm her reliability. If, by any chance that hostilities occur from her, do not hesitate to take her out. Are my orders clear?”

“Understood. I’ll be heading out immediately.” Shadow heard the orders loud and clear, but before he could excuse himself, Commander Tower halted him for a moment. “Before you go, take this communicator with you. Should you have need of assistance, Rouge and Omega are on standby and will head to your current position as soon as possible.” The man then concluded his mission report as he turned to the window. “That is all. Dismissed.”

“Roger that, Commander Tower.” With that, Shadow stashed the communicator away and saluted before heading out the door. As the black hedgehog left for the garage in where his Dark Rider was parked, the man stared out the window and spoke quietly. “You’d best be prepared Shadow. What we are experiencing right now is only a precursor for what is to come, and I have a feeling that Sonic the Hedgehog and his friends may already be caught in the flow.”
As he watched the scenery out the window, a newspaper laid on the man’s desk; the topic being the would-be incident on Tanega Island, with a red circle on one word precisely…. ‘Ragnarök’.

*End Theme*

*FLASHBACK END*

Shadow’s mind flashed back to the present as he loaded the pistol with a fresh clip of ammo. “If what the Commander said is true, this girl, Lieselotte, may be more dangerous than she looks. I’d better tread lightly.” Done with his preparations. Shadow placed his pistol on his person and walked inside the grave yard.

*Graveyard ~ Pathway*

As expected, the graveyard was filled with tombstones of those who passed away, lined with flowers. The rain continued to pour, and yet Shadow continued unflinchingly as he looked around. His movement then halted when he saw the girl he saw on the commander’s holograph projection standing quietly in front of one gravestone, one of little importance.

*Insert Theme: “Moonlight Nocturne” (Arcana Heart)* (a.k.a. Lieselotte’s theme)

“…Who are you? I’ve never seen you around before.” Without even eying the lone hedgehog and even any emotion, Lieselotte spoke, as if she anticipated unforeseen company. The black hedgehog, sensing no hostility for the moment, decided to humor her by simply answering her question. “Shadow the Hedgehog. The Ultimate Lifeform.”

“You have a weapon on you, and yet… you do not draw it out. Either you must be brave… or you must be willing to die.” Lieselotte spoke again, again showing no emotion. Shadow, however, was not fazed as he spoke again. “You’re not the first one to give me a death threat. However, I have only come here to talk to you… if you are willing.”

The girl, holding a lone puppet holding the soul of her deceased sister Elfriede, turned to the black hedgehog, who stood a row of graves behind her. “I see… so you’re THE Shadow the Hedgehog… I see death in your eyes… and pain. A person you held dear was taken from you long ago… and your creator, torn from the death to insanity, tampered with your memories… so that you would only know revenge.”

“I am not proud of it. I remember it was Amy Rose who reminded me of Maria’s true promise… to bring hope to humanity.” Shadow crossed his arms and closed his eyes. Lieselotte walked closer to the hedgehog as she spoke again. “And what of your blood, born from the Black Arms? What of the people you had slain? You can’t very well be fighting for humanity if you’re actions were against them.”

Still, Shadow was apathetic as he turned around and spoke again. “I cannot deny of what I have done. Nonetheless, I make my own destiny and left all that behind me. So, don’t bother trying to deceive me.”

For a good couple of minutes, all that happened was a complete staring contest between the two. Not even the sights of two pools of blood, with recognizable signs to the black hedgehog, would make him flinch, nor the gaze of his crimson eyes sway the girl, who bears the Arcana of Darkness Gier. But sooner or later, one would lose focus as it turned out a single speck of dust irritated Lieselotte’s eyes.

“..It seems the time for talk is over.” Lieselotte, realizing that trying to intimidate Shadow was completely futile, but before the two could assume a fighting position, with Shadow pulling out his pistol and Lieselotte holding her puppet, a red light burst through the clouds and engulfed Shadow, who stood in shock. “Wha… WHAT IS THIS?!”

*End Theme*

*???*

Shadow was blinded by the red light, and when his crimson red irises opened, he was in an unknown space. Getting himself together, the Ultimate Lifeform looked around. “Where am I? And how did I get here?”

“I can tell you are confused. That is natural, seeing as you are from the same realm as the knave of a blue hedgehog.” To Shadow’s surprise, a voice sounding completely like his own echoes in the area… right behind him!

With his natural quick instincts, Shadow quickly turned around, only to be even more confused as he saw what looked completely like him, but the clear differences were a knight’s visor covering his eyes completely, a dark grey cuirass on his torso, armored gloves in place of Shadow’s cloth gloves, and armored shoes in contrast to Shadow’s own.

*Insert Theme: “To the Ancient Soleanna Castle” (Sonic the Hedgehog 2006)*

“Who are you?! Are you… me?!” Shadow was completely on edge as he looked at the mysterious figure that appeared before him. The armored stranger took the aggression in stride as he crossed his arms. “Yes. And no. Alas, I am you, but in another life, in a different realm.”

“A different realm?” Shadow could sense that the stranger was not lying and relaxed his guard somewhat. The stranger then lifts his visor to show further proof, that being his own crimson red eyes.” “In the realm of Camelot, land of King Arthur, I am known as Lancelot, Knight of the Lake.”

“Lancelot? You mean… the greatest of the Knights of the Round Table?” Shadow was very intrigued by Lancelot’s introduction, to which the knight nodded. “Indeed. Forgive me for lack of humility, but as you call yourself the Ultimate Lifeform, I myself am the Ultimate Knight. From what I surmise, you’ve encountered one of the Arcana Maidens, one with a dark past much like yours.”

“Arcana Maiden?” Shadow kept his cool but was clearly intrigued by what his alternate self said. “Yes. Young women who possess immense power through their bonds with Arcana Spirits, powerful beings of extraordinary might. Recently, in only a few days, due to a recent incident, that fool of a knight whom you call ‘Faker’ has established a link with my liege, who has become an Arcana Spirit himself long after death, marking him as the first ever male Arcana Knight. With their combined strength, that fool, Sonic the Hedgehog, was able to overpower the instigator of the incident, Mildred Avallonne, as hard to believe as it is. Perhaps the sacred sword Caliburn really did have a knack for choosing who would have the crown of Camelot… who is to say?”

“You mean Sonic is involved as well? Not surprising, considering how he always loved to have the spotlight. And soon, his own friends would end up involved as well.” Shadow was unfazed for the information he was given. “But why are you telling me this?”

“To prepare you for what is to come, especially with THIS!” Lancelot quickly answered Shadow’s question without delay as he quickly pulled out his own sacred sword and held it in reverse grip.

“Is that…?” Shadow, familiar with the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, eyed the blade as he turned his gaze back to its chosen wielder. “Arondight. One of the finest swords in the entire kingdom, said to never lose its edge no matter how many times it is wielded. With this blade, you should be on even terms with the bearer of the Arcana of Darkness. With my blessing, and that of the Arcana Realm’s own, let my blade be yours to wield.”

Shadow then had a moment to think before finally making his decision. “My destiny is mine’s to decide; no one else’s, least of all, paranormal beings. But nonetheless, I shall accept your sword to carve my own path.”

“That too is fine. In a sense, you are me, and I am you, just living alternate lives. Carve your own path, Shadow the Hedgehog.” Agreeing with the Ultimate Lifeform, Lancelot handed Arondight to Shadow… before taking a bow and disappearing from sight without even leaving a trace.

Shadow looked at the blade he held, awed at the glimmer that seems to have withstood time, then looked at his pistol, then looking at an item he stashed away in his person in reserve, put away just in case. Having a rare satisfied grin, the Ultimate Lifeform felt truly ready for his upcoming battle. “The power of the Ultimate Knight, in combination with that of the Ultimate Lifeform… quite poetic when you think about it.”

*End Theme*

*Graveyard*

Shadow opened his eyes and found himself back in the graveyard, face to face with Lieselotte. The only thing that changed is that Arondight was still held in Shadow’s right hand in reverse grip. The black hedgehog, realizing how real the blade is in his hands, returned his attention back to the girl, who seemed slightly unnerved, however her face did not seem to show it. “…It seems you have a new toy to play with… however… do you really want to die THAT badly?”

“I should be asking you the same question.” Shadow replied as he went into a steady stance and braced himself for battle.

*MEANWHILE…*

*Mei Ling’s Laboratory*

“So, he’s one of your biggest rivals? This… ‘Shadow’ was it?” Saki took the time to ask Sonic about the black hedgehog that was one of his biggest rivals up to date, with Heart equally as interested.

“Yep, Shadow may be really moody, but he’s always known what to do when he gets into a situation.” Sonic smiled, not worried at the very least of the black hedgehog. “I first met him during the Space Colony ARK problem when I was framed for his own crimes, enough that G.U.N. was after me!”

“What I don’t understand is how they could mistake the colors blue for black. The very thought astounds me!” Petra too voiced her opinion as she disproved the framing in the first place, seeing Sonic’s honest actions in battle with her own eyes. “I hear ya. But that’s in the past.”

“Excuse me, Miss Petra.” Sure enough, Elsa joined in the conversation, with Clarice close by.

“Yes, Elsa?” Petra turned to her subordinate, who responded with urgency in her tone. “We just got a call from headquarters. Lieselotte has challenged some black hedgehog into battle.”

“Black hedgehog? Must be Shadow.” Sonic quickly figured out who the opponents before folding his arms behind his spiny head. “Eh, he can take care of himself there.”

“And you are?” Elsa then turned to Sonic, who casually took things to stride. “Sonic. Sonic the Hedgehog.”

“Elsa La Conti. With me is Clarice di Lanza.” Elsa, ever the serious woman, introduced herself and her partner, who then walked to Sonic. “My my, the little hero who defeated Mildred. You’re a littler taller than I expected~!”

“Okay… why did she sound like Rouge when she tries to sweet-talk Knuckles?” Sonic was slightly unnerved before quickly regaining his posture. Nonetheless, Clarice introduced herself. “Clarice di Lanza. I’m part of the Celestial Union alongside Petra and Elsa. In fact, in a way, you could say I am like Petra’s older sister.” But then, a dark aura emanated from her frame as she slowly opened her eyes, which seemed demonic. “But if you think of getting too chummy with Elsa… then there may be problems.”

Sonic’s quills stood on end as he clearly read the vibrations in the air around him. “Whoa… don’t worry. I’m no romantic type. Besides, I’d rather be out and about!”

Fortunately, the hedgehog seemed to ease the situation in a heartbeat as the Clarice’s eyes seemed to close and she seemed to return to her cheerful self. “Okay. You seem well mannered, although a little impatient with getting back to topic.”

“Note to self, NEVER make this lady angry. She makes Amy seem completely tame in comparison!” Sonic sighed as he pretty much veered himself out of the sudden danger he was in. Seeing a chance to return to the topic with Shadow, the blue hedgehog spoke again. “Anyways, with what I witnessed recently, I think Shadow’s got things under control without my help.”

“You certain, Sonic the Hedgehog? Lieselotte IS infamously known as the Crimson Eyed Criminal after all. I have a feeling that your friend is running off to his own grave, considering Lieselotte’s power.” Elsa wanted to be cautious concerning the girl’s reputation, but Sonic was unfazed. “Don’t worry! Shadow isn’t called the Ultimate Lifeform for nothing! If things get bad, he’ll just use a Chaos Emerald to use Chaos Control and teleport himself before the girl could blink!”

“Chaos Emerald?” Clarice quickly responded before she reached into her pockets and pulled out a familiar blue gemstone. “Hmmhmmhmm… Would it have anything to do with this beautiful little gemstone I found some time ago?”

“Huh?” Sonic turned to Clarice, but when he saw the blue gem in her hand levitate on its own power, his quills stood on end in complete shock. “NO WAY!!! YOU ALREADY GOT A CHAOS EMERALD?!”

Hearing the name quickly got the attention of Heart, Saki, Kamui, and Konoha, the latter just hanging out with Tails for a bit. As the four girls stare at the gem, the pink haired girl was the first to react. “Suggoi… it’s so pretty!”

“So THIS is one of the seven Chaos Emeralds... despite it’s small size it is radiating quite a measurable amount of power.” Kamui examined the gem with her ever sharp gaze.

“Yeah, those gems have helped a lot in the past. Get all seven of them, then the ultimate power is unleashed.” Sonic spoke as he recalled all the times he had gathered the Emeralds, originally intent on keeping them safe from Eggman during his first encounter with the mad scientist on South Island. Petra then got close as she too looked at the gem. “With the amount of power the gem has on its own, if one were to gather all of them, then there would be no telling HOW powerful that being would become. Power… to even rule the world.”

“Yes, I agree. Fortunately, the one who used them the most, as records have shown, was Sonic here. Records also state that when he is done with the gems, he disperses them to different random locations before returning back to his original state.” Kamui spoke as she had recalled the legends of the gems. “As well as the matter of the more powerful Master Emerald.”

“Oh, that? That’s the big Emerald that controls the power of the Chaos Emeralds. There’s even a prayer that goes with it. ‘The Servers are the seven Chaos. Chaos is Power, power that is enriched by the Heart. The Controller serves to unify the Chaos. Even to this day, I still don’t know when that all means.” Sonic spoke, recalling the prayer that Knuckles, being the last of the echidna clan spoke before.

“Then is it okay if we check it out?” Heart smiled as she had stars in her eyes, but Sonic still remembered one detail about the gem, while keeping one other… detail in a quiet tone. “Well… you’d have to talk with my pal Knuckles about it. He’s the guardian of it after all. Despite how many times he was duped…”

Little did anyone know; the whole group was being watched by one person hiding in the shadows… a young woman with spiky scarlet red hair done in very long twintails wearing a thick high collar purple cape over a black bra and purple shorts.

“Ara ara, aren’t they all chummy with that blue hero? And all that talk about the Emeralds, as well as its Controller. Perhaps a little peek would be nice. But more importantly… I am curious of this ‘Guardian’.” The woman quietly spoke as she disappeared into the shadows…

“Anyways, we are getting off topic. If your friend Shadow is up against Lieselotte, then he may be in peril, regardless of his own power and experience.” Petra then went back to the topic in hand, but Sonic still was unfazed as he knew his ebony rival very well. “Ah, Shadow will be okay. Odds are that, if I know him well, he’s already got a Chaos Emerald in his possession already.”

*Graveyard*

*Insert Theme: “Shut Up Faker! ~ Sonic vs. Shadow Battle 1” (Sonic Adventure 2)*

The area became rife with Chaos energy and dark power as Shadow and Lieselotte waste no time in going on the offensive. Shadow parried Lieselotte’s doll as it was launched out of the girl’s suitcase with Arondight as he let loose one of his trademark Chaos Spears at the girl, only for her to effortlessly hover off to dodge the attack. Sure enough, that gave Shadow the chance to go into as Spin Dash of his own and collide with the girl, only for her to block with her own suitcase before trying to whack him off. Fortunately for Shadow, he landed in a backward skid on his feet as he skates towards his opponent.

And sure enough, tombstones were getting destroyed in the battle…

*WHAM!!!* *POW!* *BOOM!* *SMACK!!!* *BOOM!*

*A Few minutes later…*

The battle between Lieselotte and Shadow lasted a good while, with both of them nicked from the blows they exchanged and feeling a little out of breath. Lieselotte tightly gripped her suitcase as she eyed the ebony hedgehog yet keeping her stoic gaze. “Your reputation as the Ultimate Life Form… seems to be well founded. Never have I faced anyone who’s last against me this long.”

“The same can be said for you, girl.” Shadow kept his own gaze as he eyed Lieselotte’s orange eyes but noticed something off. Shadow’s suspicions rang true as Lieselotte fired her doll out of her briefcase at Shadow, catching him off guard and hitting him in the torso. As he winced, the ebony hedgehog’s eyes widen in shock as the girl seemed to vanish and large glowing red eyes encircle him.

“Damn, got careless! Didn’t notice that she hid her trump card until now!” Shadow gritted his teeth, but then remembered in his mind that HE had something saved up in a pinch like this one.

As the glowing eyes began to gaze close at him, razor sharp red claws seemed to slash relentlessly at Shadow. The view changed to Lieselotte sitting on her suitcase, drinking a cup of tea, near a cross that appeared near Shadow’s body. “You are strong indeed, Shadow the Hedgehog. But I believe our little playtime… is over.” Soon after, a red shockwave under Shadow struck him and seemed to have rendered him unconscious, due to the effects of her own Critical heart, ‘Crimson Meltzin Stained Night’.

*End Theme*

…If only defeating the black hedgehog was THAT easy…

*Insert Theme: “Throw it All Away ~ Theme of Shadow the Hedgehog (Instrumental)” (Sonic Adventure 2)*

“I have to admit, if what attack you have done DID hit me, I would be down by now.” A familiar voice echoed in the darkness, leaving Lieselotte in a rare gesture of shock. Little did the Maiden anticipate, the ebony hedgehog stood back-to-back with her, holding a bright red gem in his left hand. “But thanks to Chaos Control, I managed to stop time temporarily to give me a chance to escape.”

“Wait a minute… if you are behind me… then what did I…?” Lieselotte was rarely shocked, but this was one moment that she could not hide the expression in her eyes. As she looked at what she thought was the black hedgehog. It turned out to a large plush doll resembling Sonic… now a completely ruined pile of cotton fluff!

“Heh, who would have thought one of the dolls used by the Doctor for his training dummies would end up useful?” Shadow grinned as he recalled taking one of the dolls from one of Eggman’s bases, as it was originally used for the testing of his E-Series robots and any future models in mind. Shadow originally intended the personal use of the doll for stress relief. What irony was it that is was used to save him.

Lieselotte looked at the damaged doll and looked at the shape. “That doll, as badly damaged as it is…. looks like Sonic the Hedgehog, but the eyes are beady black…”

Soon after, the girl, feeling great fatigue, fell to her knees.

*End Theme*

“I believe the battle is over. However, out of respect of your skill and the second report given to me by the Commander saying that you lent your aid to this… ‘Celestial Union’ to stop some incident of a massive scale, I will spare you. On the other hand, I will report the deaths of the two agents of GUN to HQ. In defense, they probably attacked you first, seeing as I see bullet holes on the graves.”

Lieselotte stared at Shadow in disbelief as she asked one thing. “Why… would you spare me?”

Shadow sighed as he hoisted Arondight over his shoulder and spoke. “I know what it is like to be alone, after what happened to Maria. For a while, I did not trust humans, but it was thanks to Prof. Gerald’s video, apologizing for what has happened and saying that I was the only hope against the Black Arms. After I killed Black Doom, their leader to whom my blood came from and used the Eclipse Cannon on the Space Colony ARK to destroy the Black Comet, I decided to put my past behind me. Certainly, you have someone who wishes to see you happy, just as Maria did for me?”

“…Heart… Aino… and… Zenia… Valov.” Lieselotte spoke as she looked down on the ground. As she looked up again, the girl saw Shadow extend his hand to her. The girl was reluctant as first, but after some careful consideration, accepted the hedgehog’s gesture and stood up. Still keeping her stoic gaze, she looked at Shadow and spoke. “…Thank you… Shadow.”

*Insert Theme: “Serious Feeling” (Arcana Heart 3)*

“It seemed you were busy, Lieselotte.” As if from nowhere, a voice echoed in the graveyard; it’s source belonging to a young woman having white hair the same shade as Lieselotte’s own, amber eyes, a black trench coat with the right sleeve cut over a pale blue sleeveless shirt adorned with a loose red tie.She also wears a short black form fit skirt going up the corners, sheer black tights, a blue fingerless glove on her left hand, and a gold and red gauntlet on her right hand. In addition, white metallic armor covers her feet, as well as her legs being adorned with black and gold leg ornaments.

“Who are you?” Shadow eyed the new woman with suspicion in his eyes, to which the newcomer, with her calm and stoic expression, cut straight to the chase to with her introduction. “Zenia Valov. Seems you gained Lieselotte’s favor a lot better than those two did.” She in fact, eyeing the dead GUN agents, but before Shadow could say more, Lieselotte spoke again, this time with a more favorable tone. ‘…Sister.”

“Wha, sister?!” Shadow was caught off guard but Zenia spoke again. “It’s a tough subject. Come with us and I’ll explain.”

Shadow eyed Zenia for a moment before making his decision. He pulled out his communicator and put away the Red Chaos Emerald. “Shadow to HQ, requesting backup to retrieve the bodies of the dead agents. Also, call off the search for Lieselotte Achenbach. It seems she is willing to comply to me only for the time being.”

“Understood, Shadow. We’ll get right on it. Good work. We’ll leave the rest to you.” Commander Tower responded to Shadow’s call and ended his transmission immediately.

Seeing the deed done, Shadow turned to Zenia and spoke. “Let’s leave this graveyard so I can listen to what you have to say.”
“Very well. I’ll speak to where my sister and I come in… and what happened to us.” Zenia, being straight to the point, accepted to the hedgehog’s request, and with that, the two Maidens and the Ultimate Lifeform take their leave of the graveyard.

By the time the GUN infantrymen arrive at the graveyard to take care of the bodies of their fallen, Shadow, Lieselotte, and Zenia were nowhere to be seen.

*End Theme*

Geez, this was a doozy. Trying to get back on track, only to keep getting waylaid trying to find inspiration for continuing the fanfic. And sorry if I rushed the battle a bit. I was having trouble and will try better next time. But anyways, Shadow leaves the graveyard with Lieselotte and Zenia, but what did the girl mean by ‘sister’? What the is the connection between the two girls? Find out next time!

On another end, the crossover game ‘Blazblue: Cross Tag Battle’ has added the Arcana Heart series as the fifth Fate, with the pink crystal and Heart Aino to represent it, just as much as Blazblue has Ragna the Bloodedge with the blue crystal, Yu Narukami of the Persona series, specifically its fighting game ‘Persona 4 Arena’, with the yellow crystal, Hyde Kido of ‘Under Night: In-Birth’ with the purple crystal, and Ruby Rose of Monty Oum’s masterpiece RWBY with the red crystal.

But then they tease us with a sixth Fate, the only clue being a light blue crystal… what is it? I may have a few clues, but they are vague at best…