Sonic Project Story Mini-Chapter: Faith, Hope, and Light (Christmas story) by LeydenTheWolf < Submission

Keywords male 1115034, female 1004795, fox 232827, wolf 182174, rabbit 128809, sonic the hedgehog 56913, mouse 50255, christmas 19822, fennec 17116, sonic fan character 15827, sonic oc 12733, gift 12066, fan character 6355, sonic fan characters 5741, mobians 3877, mongoose 3648, seedrian 1713, christmas tree 1713, magic user 414, fan fiction 171

Sonic Project Story Mini-Chapter: Faith, Hope, and Light
(Christmas story)

Cast: Leyden the Wolf
Velvet the Rabbit
Aylon the Vixen
Cathy the Nine-Tailed Fox
Sunflow the Seedrian
Lavendra the Seedrian
Xalon "Blade" the Hedgehog
Ren the Wolf

Scenario: Christmas arrives once again. With all the heavy conflicts that have burdened the whole year, Christmas would probably be cherished more than ever. In recent times, Caylon City had been caught in a brutal warfare between its heroes, the guardians of the city, and a dark organization that nearly brought it and the country to its knees. Despite the odds, Leyden and his friends prevailed, and had spent all of autumn to rebuilding the city. Now, Caylon City had restored its peace in its reconstruction in progress, and with Christmas arriving, unity couldn't be more important.

'At the main plaza of Caylon City, Leyden and his friends were helping decorate a very large tree fabricated by Celestial Isle's sages, Sunflow the Seedrian and Lavendra the Seedrian, as they were all preparing for Christmas day to follow within 5 days.'

Velvet: -is several feet away from the decorated tree in progress, using her hands gestured to mimic a picture frame while looking through it- Looking great, girls! -she said-

Sunflow the Seedrian: Ya'll said you wanted to go big, but.. This is just Eiffel Tower levels of big! -she said in a comedic tone-

Lavendra the Seedrian: You aren't far from the truth. -she said, as she looks towards Velvet- Are you sure you wanted it this big?

Leyden: -he comes over to greet them- How's that huge tree going?

Lavendra: Oh, swimmingly. -she said, smiling- If we keep this up, we should be done before Christmas.

Xalon: -she whistles- I think we might make this the best Christmas in Caylon City yet.

Ren: Indeed. -he said, his smile turning into a slightyl downed expression- Especially after....

Leyden: -he looks at Ren, his smile fading as well as he and the others, all knowing what happened 3 months ago- Yeah... -he said somberly-

Lavendra: We almost lost the whole city, either domination or destruction. -she said-

Velvet: ...Hmph! We shouldn't dwell on the past. -she said- I mean, we won, didn't we? It was because of our unity that we won in the end.

Leyden: Yeah! -he said with some optimism- We defeated the organization, and saved more than my home that day. We can recover from it and march to a better day!

Ren: Hehe. Well said, son. -he said, smiling-

Xalon: Yeah bro! -she said in an excited tone, and then draws her sonic powered sword and takes a stance- In our darkest hour, and Caylon City's heroes made a last ditch effort to beat the darkness that threatens it! -she said in an upbeat, narrative tone, then she swings her sword around- HA! Gotcha! HYA! Hoooaa! You won't win, ya fiends!

Velvet: -she laughs a little at Xalon's performance- This act isn't too far from the truth. -she said-

Leyden: Ditto. -he said-

Xalon: HOYAAAAAAA!!!! -she shouts when she jumped up, and then slow motion of her swinging her sword down, but when it was about to hit the ground, it gets stopped by Velvet using her Gem Eye magic- Ah?!

Velvet: Nooo! Not again! -she yelped in hesitation, knowing what'll happen if she slammed her sonic blade on the ground at that force-

Xalon: Heeeeey! -she said in an upset manner-

Ren: Xalon. -he said, with his arms crossed and tapping his foot-

Xalon: .....Oh yeah, right. -she said sheepishly, as she moves her sword behind her nervously chuckling-

Ren: And especially on Christmas. -he said- I swear, Xalon, you get carried away with that thing sometimes.

Leyden: Again, ditto. -he said- Last thing everyone here needs is another sonic boom accident.

Xalon: Aw you guys know me and my baby. -she said, as she comically hugs her sword and rubs the side of it- Reforged it with my own hands.

'Sunflow and Lavandra laughs.'

Velvet: Oh, Xalon. -she giggled- But seriously. Put that thing away before you, oh I don't know, accidentally cut down that tree with a sound blade from it? -she said in a serious tone as she makes a 'give it to me' hand gesture-

Xalon: Oh come on, I'll be careful! -she said while holding the sword, but she then feels it being pulled out of her grip by Velvet's magic, then she comically tries to hang on to it- NOOOOOOO, DON'T TAKE MY BABY FROM ME!!!

'Velvet and Xalon start fighting over the sword in a cartoony fashion.'

Sunflow: We... Better get them under control before they cause an accident. -she said in a nervous manner-

Leyden: Riiiight. I'm gonna take a stroll. -he said, looking at Ren- Please make sure Xalon behaves.

Ren: I AM her dad after all. Well... Adopted dad, but.. Yeah. -he said, chuckling as he approached Velvet and Xalon to try and resolve this-

Leyden: Don't let anything happen, Velvy! -he said to Velvet-

Velvet: Roger that! -she said in a struggled tone, trying to pry Xalon's sword away- C'mon!

Xalon: No! Mine! -she said-

'Leyden walks off to take his time through the streets. He uses his Extreme Gear shoes to ride through town. He zips through the streets, grinds on a few rails, and does a few trick moves until he reaches his favorite restaurant downtown, Samurai Buffet, and walks inside.'

Amanda: Oh, Ley! Merry Christmas! -she said in a cheery tone while waving at Leyden-

Leyden: Back at ya, Amanda! -he said, as he sits at one of the nearest tables- How's it going here?

Amanda: Oh, still rough. -she said- But, we soldier on.

Leyden: That's what me and my pals have been doing, hehe. -he said with a chuckle- I'm just gonna have the usual dish for now. I'd wanna get back to help with the tree, while setting up the charity drive.

Amanda: On iiiiit~! -she said in a singing tone, and zips off to fill Leyden's order-

Leyden: -he takes a moment to sigh in relief to start relaxing some in his seat, looking out the window- Man this year's been nothing but trouble... But hopefully we can make the next year better. -he said- Good thing we're ending it with a bang though.

'Leyden looks onto his smartphone to watch some gamer videos, when suddenly he hears someone come inside, and when he looks over, he sees his small, nine-tailed magenta colored fox Cathy, wearing her winter attire, arrive while carrying a little bag.'

Leyden: Cathy? -he said-

Cathy: Hu?! Ley? -she said inquisitively, looking towards Leyden by the window in his seat, and then she giggles- Didn't know you were here.

Leyden: Just wanted to drop by for some eats after a hard day's work. -he said, as he then gestures his left hand- Come on over! Food's on me!

Cathy: Yay! -she cheered, as she sits in the seat on the other side of the table- Me and Ms. Ballerina wanted to eat too. Mom's been busy the whole month. She said I could visit you guys if I wanted to, for some good times.

Leyden: Heh. Wouldn't blame her. -he said- It's been a hard couple of months.

Cathy: Yeah. -she said as her ears drooped down- After the fallout, almost everyone's been feeling sad. Some wanted to give up and accept that we can't fix it all.

Leyden: Well, tell them that when the city kicks off a big Christmas. -he said in a playful tone-

Cathy: -she giggles- I know. You and your friends helped a lot. -she said, smiling- If it weren't for you and your friends, everyone wouldn't know what to do.

Leyden: Hey, that's what we do best. -he said, making a wink-

'As they were talking, Cathy ends up noticing someone in a black cloak sitting down the row across from them 3 tables down.'

Cathy: Who's that? -she asked-

Leyden: Hm? -he looks towards where Cathy was looking, and sees him too- Huh. Better not be leftovers... But to be sure... -he said, as he cautiously has his diamond on his robot hand light up abit, as he gets up- Wait here.

Cathy: -she nods, ducking under the tables-

Leyden: -he walks over slowly- Alright! I dunno how many of  you are left, but if you think-

'Suddenly, the hooded figure jumped out of the seat skillfully, and lands on one of the top seats, activating one of their rings' energy blades that were violet colored, and then as they attacked Leyden, he activates his robot arm's armblade in time, clashing blades.'

Hooded Figure: Leave me alone already! -he said in an nnoyed tone-

Leyden: Wait a second?! -he said as he struggles to keep his armblade locked- That voice... Aylon?

Aylon the Kitsune: Ley...? -he said softly, as he stands down, and removes his hood, showing himself as a dark red kitsune with amber eyes, wearing black and red gloves and shoes- I-I didn't know you...

Leyden: Whoa whoa, easy. -he said, trying to keep the situation controlled- It's alright.

Aylon: Sorry about that... -he said in a somber tone, as he puts his hands in his jacket's pockets- Been bustling in this repairing town for a while now.

Amanda: Is everything okay here? -she said in an annoyed tone, as she didn't want anymore trouble happening at the restaurant ever since the fallout-

Leyden: O-o-oh, nothing! Nothing! -he said nervously with his robot arm behind his back-

Aylon: ...It's fine. I was just being cautious. -he said in a serious tone-

Amanda: Good. -she said, as she sets the food down on the table, and she sees Cathy- Ah, hello there Cathy!

Cathy: Hi~! -she said in a sweet tone-

Leyden: Oh, it's on me, Cathy. -he said- We can share.

Cathy: Okie dokey. -she said, making a cheery expression and a cat mouth-

Leyden: -as he was about to join Cathy, he looks to Aylon whom sat back at his spot- Hm.. Hey, Aylon. -he said- Why don't ya sit with us?

Aylon: Why should I...? -he asked somberly- I was your enemy, remember?

Leyden: Well... That's in the past. -he said, as he takes Aylon by his hand-

Aylon; Huh-WHOA! -he yelped as he was being dragged over by Leyden-

Leyden: Besides, after you helped me, and I helped you before, and with Christmas happening, I ain't about to let a sad soul like you have Christmas alone! -he said, having brought Aylon over to his table with Cathy-

Aylon: Sheesh. Couldn't you take a hint before? -he said as he yanked his arm away- I told you before, I'm better off alone.

Cathy: Aww, nobody should be alone on Christmas. Right Ms. Ballerina? -she said to her doll-

Ms. Ballerina: -Cathy puts on a voice for her as she moves it a little bit- No siree! Christmas is for everyone to get together on.

Aylon: -he hesitates as he looks at Leyden an Cathy, and after a few moments, he sighs in defeat, and sits next to Leyden- Food's on you, right?

Leyden: Yup. Ordered a big meal this time, cuz I haven't eaten all day. -he said, as he licks his lips looking at steamed dumplings- Help yourselves, guys.

'Aylon and Cathy start eating with Leyden. Although Aylon ate slowly.'

Aylon: It was a hard decision to have made, you know... -he said-

Leyden: Hm? -he muffled due to having food in his mouth-

Aylon: I thought we were doing the right thing... -he said somberly, looking out the window to see the night sky- We've been fighting to right alot of wrongs in this world. But... Our leader was going too far. That's when I was disillusioned.

Cathy: Yeah... Our city, let alone the country almost got dominated. -she said, using a napkin to wipe her mouth-

Leyden: But we defeated them despite the odds. -he said-

Aylon: Sure, but now who'll help people in this world? -he said-

Cathy: Um... good guys like Ley! -she said-

Leyden: Yeah. Aylon, there isn't more bad than good. -he said-

Aylon: ...Not from what we have seen. -he said, as he starts fiddling with a dumpling with a fork- There's sick people that takes advantage of the common folk when they see weakness, or when they know they can abuse their powers. Our group worked outside of the law, and therefore we hit many of them in the past. But it feels like some different scumbag takes the other's place.

Leyden: -he swallows his dumpling- I get it. Sometimes people have it rough. -he said- But... it don't mean people can't keep trying. We kept trying when Vice's forces were growing. And what did we do? We beat them!

Cathy: And they beat your gang too, Aylon. -she said-

Aylon: Hm... So what can I do now? -he asked- I don't know what else I can do, because without them I'm nothing.

Leyden: That's not true! -he said- You're your own person now. Only you can decide what path you take.

Cathy: Mr. Aylon. You wanna know what my mom's told me before? -she asked-

Aylon: What? -he asked-

Cathy: "When you help someone, you help everyone." -she said with a smile-

Leyden: Um... NOT in the way you and your gang thought though. -he said in a sheepish tone with a nervous expression- She means by helping individual people.

Aylon: And how exactly does that work...? -he asked, sounding doubtful-

Leyden: Hm... Well, why don't we help you with that? -he asked-

Aylon: Huh? -he said questioningly-

'After the trio's eaten, Leyden and Cathy take Aylon towards the northeastern districts, where people are preparing a couple of trucks filled with toys and other things.'

Leyden: About each year, our city holds 2 to 3 toy drives around here, to have people donate as many toys as... Well, these guys here can transport, hehe. -he said with a chuckle-

Aylon: And... How exactly do toys help? -he said with a slightly confused expression-

Cathy: Kids like me LOVE toys, duuuh! -she said- And some unfortunate kids out there don't even get toys they want, or ANY toy at all.

Leyden: Didn't you used to have toys before? -he asked-

Aylon: I d... Well.... Maybe. -he said in a softened tone-

Cathy: -she holds her doll up and puts on its voice- Kids get toys when they've been good the whole year. But sometimes they don't get lucky, and that's why there's groups like these that do charity to help them. -she said in her acting-

Aylon: -he looks at the trucks-.... All those for one kid per truck?

'Leyden and Cathy do an "anime fall on their backs moment".'

Leyden: NOT... Like that, Aylon! -he said in annoyance- You gotta think: A lot of toys are going to tons of kids at a time.

Aylon: Ooooooh. -he said-

Cathy: -she runs over to the people loading the trucks while carrying a little bag she held onto up till now- Excuse me. -she said-

Female Mongoose: -she looks over to recognize the young fox- Hi, Cathy! -she said smiling-

Cathy: I brought these over for the Toy Drive. -she said, as she gives her the bag- I put names on them for the kids at the shelters. Some of them being my friends. Please make sure they make it to them, and tell them I said Merry Christmas. -she said, giving a warm smile-

Female Mongoose: Sure thing, Cathy. -she said, rubbing Cathy's head- You're always such a big help here.

Cathy: Tehehe. Thanks. -she said with a cute giggle-

Aylon: Hm... How's she still this.. Happy? -he asked- She's suffered like you lot.

Leyden: ...It's true. We all suffered. -he said- But it doesn't mean we have to let it consume us. We just accept what happens and move forward. We'll show ya.

'After Cathy's given her toys, she goes with Leyden and Cathy to one of the shelters near the central district, at one of the city's universities.'

Leyden: Even after all of that chaos, the city made sure the students continue their learning. -he said- Even if they have to stay put at it, being converted into a shelter.

Aylon: Hmph. Least the teachings can progress. -he said- But I don't think there'll be enough room here.

Cathy: Oh, there isn't. -she said- But we have more than 1 shelter made.

'They head inside.'

Aylon: There's a lot of them... Without their homes. -he said in a somber tone-

Cathy: True. But don't you see how they're coping? -she said-

Aylon: -he looks at most of the people, then after a moment he crosses his arms- Not seeing.

Leyden: Well, coping don't mean they're completely happy yet. -he said- But... Like those guys over there. -he points to a few people- Those guys are managing, cuz they understand and believe everything will be okay soon.

Cathy: I've visted here a few times the past months. -she said, as she grabs Aylon's hand- Lemme show you where the kids go.

Aylon: Wah! -he yelped when he was being pulled by Cathy-

Cathy: -she brings Aylon over to the library to show Aylon something- I see kids come here for some of their classes. -she said- But since it's in a library, they can look at whatever books they'd like to.

Leyden: Well, NOT the "PG" stuff. -he said with a nervous expression-

Cathy: But tell me what you see, Aylon. -she said-

Aylon: -he looks at the children... and sees that even if some aren't showing happiness, other kids are being good friends to even the downers too- Some are sad... But some are happy.

Leyden: Yeah. -he said- Even if some kids, and even us grown ups, are feeling lost, sometimes a friend's what we need.

Cathy: When I moved to this city with my family 2 years ago, I was too scared to make friends cuz my old school was... Not so good. -her ears droop down-

Aylon: -him seeing Cathy show a little sadness from her past experiences, his mood lifted a small bit- You mean...

Cathy: Bullied... Too much. -she said- Mom was fed up. But... Leyden became my best friend thanks to my mom. -she said with a brighter smile, as she hugs Leyden by his legs- He even saved me from his own teenager bully he's able to deal with maturely.

Leyden: Aww, it was nothing, Cathy. -he said, as he rubs Cathy's head- I mean I wasn't gonna let anyone treat a kid so badly.

Cathy: -as she feels Leyden rub her head, she lets out purring sounds-

Aylon: -seeing Cathy being embraced like that, he couldn't help but smile just a bit, but then he sniffs something sweet in the air- What is that?

Cathy: -she smells it too, and she recognizes it- Hey, that's gingerbread! -she said in an excited tone, rushing over to the school's librarian having brought some gingerbread and some hot cocoa as well, seeing other kids come too-

Librarian: Take one for now, children. -he said- There's plenty more coming.

Cathy: May I have one too, sir? -she asked nicely-

Librarian: Sure thing. -he said with a smile, as he prepares a cup of cocoa for each of the kids, giving one to her as well- Enjoy!

Cathy: -she holds her cup and gingerbread, taking a big sniff of them before sipping her drink and taking a bite by the head of the gingerbread cookie, then she looks at Aylon- Want a piece of it? -she asked, as she holds her cookie to him-

Aylon: Umm... I'll pass. -he said, kind of feeling abit nervous about her eating the head of a person-shaped cookie-

Leyden: -he makes a cartoony dumbfounded expression- Really...? It's just a cookie, ya doof! -he said-

Aylon: -he suddenly glares at Leyden with red eyes- What... Did you call me?! -he said in an angered tone-

Leyden: -his expression turns into a smiling yet nervous expression with multiple sweat drops running down him- Er...

'Back at the grand tree in the city with the others.'

Ren: -he looks at the tree with the group- It may be big, but we're getting there. -he said-

Sunflow: Eeyup. -she said- Decorations at 43% and growing.

Velvet: We should be done in no- -as she was talking, she sees Leyden and Cathy come over- Oh, Ley! Cathy! -she said, but then her happy tone turned into a shocked one when she sees who else was with him- Aylon...?

Leyden: -he was rubbing his head after he got socked by Aylon- Heeeey~. Ouch. -he said-

Ren: -he rushes over- Are you okay?! -he asked-

Cathy: He's okay. He... Just upset Aylon abit. -she said with a nervous, smiling expression-

Ren: -eyes shadowed as he looked at Aylon- You back to hurt my son, AND ruin Christmas now...?

Aylon: Knew this was a bad idea... -he turns away and starts walking off-

Leyden: -suddenly he uses his Aether Magic from his diamond to keep Aylon where he is even when he's walking- Oh no ya don't! Ya ain't going until you're reformed! -he said-

Ren and others: -they look at each other in confusion-

Velvet: "Reformed"? I thought he was when he helped us? -she asked-

Leyden: He is. But... He's down in the dumps for Christmas. -he said-

Cathy: We showed him some stuff people do on Christmas, but at this point we figured... He can help us with the big tree! -she said, making her eyes be starry-

Aylon: What?! -he said in surprise- Th-that's not what you said before!

Cathy: Sorry. But you wouldn't come if I was up front with it. -she said-

Aylon: I don't 'decorate' Christmas, okay? -he said-

Leyden: Aylon... We've been trying to help, and you've just been stubborn till now. -he said- Can't you give this one shot?

Cathy: C'mon! You could use some friends right now. -she said- I really don't wanna see you so miserable.

Aylon: I've been fighting for most of my life... So how the heck should I know how to do this? -he asked with his arms crossed-

Cathy: -she looks for a moment, then looks down, then after what felt like a few seconds, she suddenly looks up to Aylon, making a pair of puppy eyes and talks in an adorable tone with a few hearts floating around her- Pweeeeeaaaaasssee, Aylon~! Pwetty pwease! -she said-

Aylon: NGH?! -he stuttered at Cathy's cute act, which causes him to hesitate- Nnnnnh....

Leyden, Ren, Velvet, Sunflow: Aaaaaawwwwww!!!!!!! -they said in reacting to Cathy's act-

Aylon: Ugh. Fiiiiiine! -he said in annoyance-

Cathy: Yay! -she grabs onto Aylon's hands, and yanks him towards the tree-

Velvet: You sure about this, Ley? -she asked with concern-

Ren: Yeah. I mean he did help, but I still can't quite trust him... -he said-

Leyden: Well, just try to trust me, please. -he said- He's been through a lot in his past, and... I just want to show him there's other ways to help people without chaos.

Sunflow: I've heard many stories about his gang... I've got my eye on him. -she said, narrowing her eyes at Aylon with arms crossed-

Lavendra: -sees Cathy and Aylon come over- Okay... Cathy, you can put the little ornaments and some fake snow on it. -she said, giving her a small bag of the items, then she looks to Aylon- And you... How about you just wrap some ribbon around it?

Aylon: -sighs to himself- I'd really rather be in jail right now... -he said to himself softly-

Lavendra: What? -she said, raising one eye to him-

Aylon: S-s-sure~. Ribbon shouldn't be hard, right? -he said, pretending to be cheery when he's annoyed underneath-

Lavendra: -she gives him a small glare with a cartoony angry vein mark- Dude. This particular Christmas tree's been one of Celestial Isle's biggest projects we've done. -she said in a serious tone- I'd really cooperate if I were you right now...

Aylon: -seeing Lavendra acting like that, he gets a little intimidated, then he sighs and takes the ribbons-

'Everyone worked on decorating the large tree for a while now, with Aylon trying his best to get the ribbon wrapped around the big tree. Leyden, Velvet, and Ren worked on other setups around the tree, making sure the lights are set around the tree, and setting up Christmas character displays to fit with it.'

Leyden: So far, so good! -he said-

Velvet: -she uses her Gem Eye magic to set up the stage for a concert- This concert and having a ton of Santa Claus people set up around the tree's an excellent idea, Ren. -she said, as she's feeling satisfied with the set up-

Ren: I figured a lot of kids will need it. -he said- Who could lift their spirits better than Santa?

Leyden: The one and only. -he said, playfully sticking his tongue out, then he goes to check on Aylon-

Aylon: -he keeps navigating the tree carefully, setting the next part of the ribbon on the branch he's on, as he's also started to feel fine about the work-

Leyden: -he uses a hover platform to fly to Aylon's platform to greet him- Yo! -he said-

Aylon: Ngah! -he gets startled, but when he sees Leyden, he sighs- How many times do you have to scare me tonight? -he said in an annoyed tone-

Leyden: Just wanted to check on ya. -he said, and he looks at the ribbons, whistling iin the process- Wow. You aren't doing too bad.

Aylon: Yeah... Guess i'm not. -he said, giving a little smile-

Cathy: -she worked on setting ornaments several feet above Aylon- This is gonna be a great Christmas. I know it. -she said, then she sees the top of the tree, and she gets an idea, and flies her platform down to get something-

Leyden: We do need this thing done, but with this effort, I figured we'd give you some space to do this. -he said-

Aylon: I actually appreciate it. -he said, but his smile went away- But... When this is done, I'm- -before he could finish, he and Leyden were suddenly greeted by Cathy- Whoa!

Cathy: Hey Aylon! -she said- I know something you can really do for us!

Aylon: Wh-what is it? -he asked nervously-

Cathy: -she gives him a star decoration that's big enough to be carried by 2 hands- Unf! Y-you can... Put this... On the top of the tree! -she said as she struggled to lift it-

Aylon: -he takes the star off her hands, being more capable of lifting it just fine- What? Me? -he asked in confusion-

Cathy: The star goes on the top. -she said- It's like the cherry on top of the ice cream. I can even help ya.

Aylon: Are... Are you sure? -he asked-

Leyden: I think you should. -he said, patting Aylon on the back-

Aylon: Whoa, hey! -he yelped, feeling the weight of the star move forward abit-

Leyden: Oops. -he said-

Cathy: C'mon, Aylon! -she said-

Aylon: Okay then. -he said, still feeling unsure as he and Cathy make their way to the top-

Cathy: -after they reached the top, she takes hold of one side of the star- Okay. Be very careful, Aylon. -she said, grunting as she helps Aylon lift it-

Aylon: I could say the same to you. -he said-

'Aylon and Cathy try to get the star on the tip of the tree.'

Cathy: Almost there. -she said, trying to hang on, but in trying to get it on the tree, she steps onto the railing of her platform-

Aylon: So how do you get it on? -he asked-

Cathy: O-on the bottom of the star, there's- -while she was talking, she suddenly slips and drops her side of the star, and fall as well, which causes Aylon to end up dropping the star entirely- Aaaaaah!!! -she screamed-

Aylon: Whooaaa!! -he shouted, as he was pulled forward off the platform by the weight of the star-

Leyden: -he sees Aylon and Cathy fall, as well as the tree- Oh no! -he said-

'Leyden jumps off his platform, and jumps off a few branches to catch up to Cathy falling above him, and then he catches Cathy with his arms, and then using his robot arm to swing off one branch, doing a flip in the air twice, and then thrusting his arm out to use his Aether Magic to catch the falling star. Aylon, though, was falling down to the ground, hitting several branches along the way, which knocked some of the ornaments and ribbon down. Just when Aylon was about to crash into the ground, he suddenly stops in mid-air by an inch. When Aylon looked over, he sees he was caught by a vine by his feet, conjured by Lavendra.'

Lavendra: Seems like you slipped. -she said, as she releases Aylon from the vines, making him hit the snow face first-

Aylon: Mph! -he muffled from hitting the 4 inches of snow-

Leyden: -he made his way down with Cathy and the star on his platform- Cathy and the star are okay. -he said, setting both of them down gently-

Cathy: S-s-sorry. I slipped. -she said- Stepping on the rail was a big no-no.

Velvet: Well, glad everyone's okay. -she said, patting Cathy on her head-

Lavendra: Yeah. However... -she said, as she points up to the tree, having the group see some of the decorations having fallen-

Sunflow: -she gasps loudly with her hands on her cheeks in shock- A-a-aylon... What did you do?!

Aylon: -he muffles in the snow, making it hard to understand him-

Ren: What? We can't quite hear you in the snow, Aylon. -he said, rubbing the back of his head-

Aylon: -feeling so upset with what happened, he suddenly emits dark magic from his rings, and bursts from the snow shouting, while knocking everyone back a little, as well as vaporizing the snow underneath him 3 feet outward- GRAAAAAA!!!! -he shouted-

Leyden and co: Aaaah! -they shouted, having been blown back a couple of feet, and they landed in the snow-

Leyden: -his face was in the snow now, but he gets his face out of, shaking his head to get it off, then he sees Aylon storming off- H-hey! Where are you- -he was saying before being interrupted-

Aylon: I'm just wasting my time... -he said in a frustrated tone- I'm leaving.

Sunflow: Hey! You can't- -before she could finish, she sees a purplish energy blade zip past her- YIPE!!! -she yelped-

Aylon: No more! -he said angirly- No more making me do crap! No more trying to teach me something! No. More. Christmas! I knew I was gonna mess something up again, but you all had to force all of this onto me.

Ren: Aylon... Leyden was just trying to help you... -he said-

Aylon: I think he's helped enough... -he said, then he turns away again- I don't know why you all keep trying to fix this world when you know we can't... Maybe you should've let my old friends complete their master plan... I'm better off alone now. -he said, as he walks off-

Cathy: A-a-aylon, wait! -she tries to go after him, but she gets stopped by Velvet grasping her by the shoulder-

Velvet: Cathy... Maybe we better let him go. -she said-

Cathy: But... -she said-

Leyden: Aylon... -he said in a saddened tone-

Cathy: -as she watched Aylon go off, she feels real sad, with her ears drooping and her eyes becoming teary-

Sunflow: -she sighs- Well... At least it wasn't a total catastrophe. -she said while looking at the tree- I think we can still get it ready by Christmas.

Leyden: Yeah... We better get on it. -he said, as he looks at Cathy- C'mon.

Cathy: -she nods slowly and goes to help Leyden and co with the tree again-

'Elsewhere in the city, Aylon was walking the streets by himself, his anger subsiding and being replaced with sadness. After a long while, he looks at an alleyway that's isolated, and goes into it several feet in, and leans against the wall.'

Aylon: -he sighs heavily- Why am I still lurking in this stupid town anyway? -he asked- I'm nothing but trouble, even after what I did to save it...

'Aylon slid down the wall to sit down, with his legs huddled up to him so he can rest his forearms on the knees.'

Aylon: Maybe... I should get out of here. -he said- Sooner or later they're not gonna keep letting me be free... I couldn't help anyone. Not as a society member... And not as a lone wolf...

'Aylon sat alone for what felt like an hour, he's suddenly approached by someone from the alleyway.'

Aylon: -his ears twitch, making him quickly stand up and activate his dark rings' armblades- Who's there?!

???: Aaah! -he yelped, the voice and figure looking like a little male child, looking like a Fenneck Mobian, and his shoes and gloves look quite aged and filfthy-

Aylon: -upon seeing what he looked like, he  slowly deactivates his armblades- Oh... Just a kid. -he said- Sorry, kid.

???: O-Oh.. No problem, sir. -he said, as he was backing up abit, having some idea that with Aylon's dark magic, he thinks he was with the cult-

Aylon: -seeing him look scared still, he figures out it was cuz he presented his dark rings as he looked at them on his wrists, then he looks at the kid, and then he slowly approached the kid cautiously as to not make him run off in fear- H-hey... It's okay, kid. -he said- I'm not with them anymore.

???: B-but... Those rings... -he said in a shaky voice as he pointed at his rings-

Aylon: -he stayed silent for a moment, but then he decides to removes his rings, and puts them into his pockets- I won't hurt you, okay?

???: -he watched him disarm himself, but was still a little hesitant-

Aylon: -he puts a hand out towards him- It's alright.

???: -even if he was still afraid, seeing Aylon willingly be like this gives him a little confidence to lightly take his hand- But... Why would you do this? -he asked-

Aylon: Because... I'm done with my 'cult'. -he said- I'm just done with everything...

???: Oh... Sounds like you've given up. -he said, feeling sorry for him with the statement- We kinda did too.

Aylon: "We"? -he asked-

???: Me and my parents left our home after... What happened in this city. -he said, his ears drooping with a saddened expression- Because our home got caught in the chaos. We had nowhere to go, so we just stayed in this spot.

Aylon: Hm... Can I meet your parents? -he asked-

???: Well... Sure. -he said- Just... Don't have those rings on if you're really not a bad guy.

'The child leads Aylon a little ways into the alleyway, where he sees his parents by a little fire they made.'

Fenneck Child: Hey mom, dad. -he said as he waved to them-

Fenneck Father: Hey, Nathan. -he said, then he and his wife sees Aylon- Who's this?

Aylon: Call me Aylon, sir. Ma'am. -he said-

Kyle: My name's Kyle the Fenneck. -he said with a smile-

Marie: I'm Marie the Fenneck. -she said, coming over to greet him- It's been so long since we've had company.

Aylon: Sounds like it. -he said, as he sits down near the fire- So uh... How long have you guys been over here?

Kyle: 3 months. -he said- We had to leave our house, because the firefight hit the neighborhoods.

Marie: We've... Lost everything. -she said in a somber tone- Even our insurances. We couldn't stay anywhere, and we couldn't just move out after what happened. So... We had no choice but to stay here in the alley.

Aylon: That's awful... -he said- My parents... They left me at an orphanage at a young age. I never knew why... I ran away after 4 months in, cuz I didn't fit in at all. I fended for myself afterward...

Marie: ...Then you were founded by that cult, were you? -she said-

Aylon: What?! -he said in a startled tone, getting up as per his reaction-

Kyle: Huh? -he said-

Marie: -she comes over, and takes the rings out of his cloak's pockets- Just because everything was happening, didn't mean I couldn't remember a face. -she said with a sly look- Esspecially after how someone like you saved our lives from a shadow creature as we escaped.

Aylon: Huh...? That was you guys? -he said in surprise-

Kyle: Wait. This guy was from the cult?! -he said in shock-

Nathan: And yet... He saved us? -he asked in surprise-

Marie: He hadn't the time to know us, but... I know someone willing to protect when I see it. -she said, as she gives the rings back- Do not worry, deary. You're fine in my book here.

Aylon: Oh... Uhh... Th-thanks. -he said-

Kyle: Well... I guess it's us that should be thanking you. -he said- We don't know you much. But if it hadn't been for you...

Aylon: ...I was just stopping my ex-friends. -he said- But at a high cost. -he sits back down- Guess it goes to show that I couldn't help anyone...

Marie: Oh posh, you have, darling. -she said with a kind smile- You saved my family. And if you stopped your cult from throwing this country and beyond into darkness... I believe you have an existential crisis going on. You blame yourself for being so weak and unable to make a difference that you think there'd be no hope.

Aylon: Don't act like you know me, ma'am... -he said in a pouty tone, looking away with his eyes-

Marie: I don't have to know everything about one person to know what they're going through right now. -she said with a wink-

Nathan: She's right. -he said, smiling- She can just tell. Guess you really aren't that bad after all.

Aylon: You... Mean that? -he said, as he looks towards them with his expression showing he's a little surprised-

Kyle: Well... She has proven me wrong a few times, hehe. -he said with a chuckle, having put his hand on his wife's right shoulder- But it's real hard to believe you came from a group of monsters.

Aylon: They thought their way of changing the world would help it... But instead, it was gonna plunge it further into chaos than they realize. -he said- Seeing my leader get so consumed by power helped me realize it.

Nathan: Aww. -he said, as he puts a hand on Aylon's shoulder-

Aylon: Hm... I should go now. -he said, as he stands up- I uh... Appreciate our conversation tonight. But what are you guys gonna do?

Kyle: Well... We don't have much options. -he said- Kinda hopeless to be honest. All we can do is just rough it out.

Nathan: But... As long as we're together, nothing will break our spirits. -he said, as he hugs Marie-

Marie: -she hugs him back- Indeed. -she said- I hope you can find your peace, Aylon.

Kyle: Good luck out there. -he said-

Aylon: Yeah... Thanks. -he said, then he walks off-

'Aylon walks off towards the streets, but as he approached the end of the alleyway he came from, he stopped for a moment, and looked back. After being with his organization for many years, he's never met a nice bunch of people, even when he thought they'd be hostile towards him, Marie still had a kind enough heart even for the likes of him, and even understanding him. He starts to think about what Leyden and Cathy told him earlier in the day, thinking maybe... He could try something. After a couple of minutes, he suddenly gets an idea, and he walks back to the homeless family.'

Nathan: Huh? You're back already? -he asked- That was fast, hehe.

Aylon: Y-yeah. Listen... Maybe there is someplace you guys could stay at. -he said-

Kyle: Huh? -he asked-

Marie: What do you mean? -she asked-

Aylon: You'll see. -he said, as he holds out a hand out to Nathan- But... Do you trust me?

Nathan: Hmm... -he thought, as he looks at his parents, then back to Aylon, and after a moment, he smiled and takes his hand, willing to take a risk- Hope you know what you're doing. -he said-

Kyle: Alright. -he said- Lead the way then.

'Aylon brings them out from the alleyway, and looked for a ride. Luckily he found a couple of citizens well versed in keeping an eye out for homeless people, and asked for their help. Soon enough, they all arrive at one of the city's shelters where Aylon talked with the people there. Even though room was filling up, they managed to squeeze in a spot for the Fenneck family. Aylon then spent some time there with the family, soon enough gaining some confidence to volunteer for a while with taking care of the people at the shelter. Meanwhile back at the grand tree, Leyden's group was still working on the tree, having almost fixed some of the accidents caused by Aylon and Cathy.'

Leyden: At least the tree didn't get knocked down. -he said, as he's placing ornaments on the stage-

Sunflow: Dude... Me and Lavendra used strong wood to grow the tree. -she said- You'd have to have a steel chainsaw to take it down. Or at least a magic weapon or attack capable of slicing tough material.

Leyden: -he laughed a little, then he looks at Cathy sitting at the edge of the stage, and he goes over to interact- Still feeling down, Cathy? -he asked-

Cathy: Yeah... I didn't mean to make him mad, Ley. -she said in a sad tone- Accidents happen, right?

Leyden: That's right. -he said- But it was still thoughtful of you to want to help Aylon put the star on.

Ren: You shouldn't beat yourself up for that, Cathy. -he said with a smile, sitting next to her- We all make mistakes. It's how we learn.

Velvet: Besides, Aylon's really wanting to not better himself. -she said- It's hard, but sometimes... Some people don't change.

Cathy: I really thought we could change Aylon. -she said, wiping her left eye a little while sniffling- I think he don't wanna forgive himself, though. That's what I think is why he's this mad.

Sunflow: -while listening, and feeling bad for Cathy, she uses her plant manipulating powers enhanced by her Gem Eyes to create a small sunflower for Cathy, and she gives it to her- Don't worry, Cathy. -she said with a warm smile- It don't mean others can't change.

Cathy: -seeing the flower, she takes it, and smiles a little, looking at Sunflow- Thanks, Sunflow.

Sunflow: Anytime, kiddo! -she said with a cheery attitude-

'At that moment, Leyden's phone rang, to which he answers.'

Leyden: Hello. -he said-

Xalon (Phone): Hey uh, Leyden. -she said- Might wanna get over to Shelter Zeta.

Leyden: What for? -he asked-

Xalon (Phone): You're not gonna believe this. -she said-

Leyden: -he listens to what Xalon has to say on the phone, then he makes a surprised expression- Seriously?! -he said-

Xalon (Phone): Eeyup. Not lyin. -she said- And bring Cathy too.

'Leyden, Cathy, and Ren head over to Shelter Zeta, which was another shelter converted school, where Xalon was at, with Leyden not saying what's happening until he saw it with his own eyes.'

Leyden: -after he, Cathy, and Ren arrive at the shelter, they look for Xalon, who wasn't too far as she quickly approaches them-

Xalon: There you are! -she said in an excited tone- You guys really gotta come see this!

Ren: What's going on? -he asked- Is one of the remnants here?

Xalon: Nope. Well, yeah. But... Argh, just come over here! -she said, as she drags Ren to where she wants to bring him to, which was in the cafeteria-

'When they get to the cafeteria.'

Xalon: -she points to someone- Look! -she said-

Leyden, Cathy, and Ren: -they look over... and they see Aylon not only serving dishes to some homeless, but was talking with someone about the family he became friends with- HEH?!!! -they said in unison-

Aylon: -has given one of the sheltered people a sandwich and some soup while talking to someone- And you're sure you'll get them a new home?

Salvation Army Person (Mouse Mobian): I'm sure we can pull a few strings for this folk. -she said with a smile- We can help them get a temporary home elsewhere until the one in Caylon City's fixed up.

Aylon: Great. Thanks so much. -he said, smiling, then he looks at the Fenneck family-

Kyle: So they'll help us get a new home? -he asked-

Aylon: Until yours is repaired. -he said- Now you guys can start your lives over.

Nathan: -he gets so excited, he jumps onto Aylon to hug him, making him fall onto the floor- Thank you, thank you, thank you, Aylon!!! -he said with tears in his eyes but with a happy tone-

Aylon: Haha! No problem! -he said, as he rubs his head, then he gets up- Now you guys stay out of harm's way. Don't wanna have to save you every time you get a home wrecked. No offense.

Marie: Don't worry. -she said, smiling- Sounds like this town's very friendly and more rural. A fine place to not have another cultist attack, hehehe.

Kyle: We can't for the life of me thank you enough, Aylon. -he said-

Leyden: Well look what we have here! -he said with his arms crossed and smiling-

Aylon: Ley?! Cathy? -he said in surprise when he hears them-

Cathy: Aylon... Are you...? -she asked, looking quite stunned-

Aylon: Well... Won't lie. -he said-

Kyle: This kind fellow's helped us to get a new home after we've lost ours, and after we've been in the alleyway for all of fall. -he said-

Marie: Nathan founded him by our spot, and then we've talked about how he saved us without knowing it, and suddenly, he came back minutes later and... Well, here we are~. -she said-

Nathan: And now we're gonna have a home again! -he said in a happy tone-

Cathy: W-wow... That's amazing! -she said in an excited tone-

Ren: Well I'll be darned. -he said, smiling-

Marie: By the way... I'm going to be joining the Salvation Army. -she said- It was my own idea. I asked them about it, and they wouldn't mind me throwing my hat into the ring.

Leyden: You are? -he asked-

Aylon: You are? -he asked too-

Marie: Yes, deary. -she said, looking at Aylon- Even when you were blackened by your inner demons, you found the courage and strength to change our lives in this one, simple act. I've always known people like that, and honestly, I almost stopped believing in our city's community. But you've proven us wrong.

Aylon: I have...? -he asked-

Marie: Mhm. So I've decided, I'm going to make my own efforts, and help others like how you've helped me. -she said after putting her hand on Aylon's shoulder-

Cathy: -she gasps from what she was hearing, remembering the exact thing she told Aylon earlier-

Aylon: -hearing Marie talk, he also remembered what Cathy told him, as his shift in expression shows he's now making sense of it-

Marie: If you really want to help, I'd love to encourage you to do things like you did tonight. -she said-

Aylon: Hm... -he nods at her- Yeah. I think I can. -he said-

Kyle: We'll be staying here for a couple of weeks for now, until we're set to move. -he said- We'll do our part as well until then. And stick around for a Christmas celebration.

Marie: Hehe, I figured, honey. -she said, with her and Kyle doing a quick kiss-

Nathan: I wanna help as well. -he said- Everyone could use it, like how we did.

Ren: Well, good luck then. -he said, smiling- We could use all the help we can get after all.

Kyle: Indeed. -he said- We'd better talk with the Salvation Army about our plans.

Aylon: Take care, you guys. -he said, smiling-

Nathan: You too, Aylon. -he said- You're my new best friend!

Aylon: Best... Friend? -he said in surprise-

Cathy: Aaawww. -she said with an awestruck expression-

Aylon: Heh... Guess you're my best friend as well. -he said-

'Aylon and Nathan hug each other, then Nathan and his parents go to talk with the charity people.'

Leyden: You know... I'm real proud of you right now, Aylon. -he said- You sounded so done earlier, and suddenly here you are.

Aylon: ...Yeah. -he looks to them- Sorry I got upset.

Cathy: Hehe. Water under the bridge, Aylon. -she said, smiling- So you understand now, what I said? When I said "When you help someone, you help everyone."

Aylon: I... Actually do now. -he said- Instead of bringing down those abusing their power, which wnds up causing chaos, with helping one person by doing the best you can morally, you can inspire other people to help others too.

Leyden: And in due time, good things happen cuz of it. -he said, winking and smiling- It's what my parents believed too, before I was born.

Aylon: Hehe... I'm real glad I met them tonight, the Fennecks. -he said, looking at the Fenneck family- They really understood how I feel with suffering, and even when they knew who's side I was on, they still listened to my story.

Ren: Some people have enough warmth in their hearts even for some cruel people. -he said- It's all they can try to do.

Aylon: -he looks at the gang again, then he kneels down to Cathy- How about I help with charity after all? -he asked- And with decorating the tree again?

Cathy: You sure? -she asked-

Aylon: This time, I'll be more careful. -he said, smiling-

Cathy: -hearing Aylon say that, she makes puppy eyes again, and hugs him tightly, and after a moment, Aylon hugs her back, but then she remembered something- Oh! I almost forgot! -she said-

'Cathy takes out a small present for Aylon.'

Aylon: Huh? A... present? -he asked-

Cathy: While we were decorating, I asked Velvet and Sunflow to make something quick for you. -she said- And I wanted it to be from me.

Aylon: -he looks at Leyden and Ren, then at Cathy again, and decides 'why not', and takes the present, and after he opens it up, he sees a ring similar to his, except it was made out of roots by Sunflow, and on it was 4 small Gem Eyes on it- Huh...? A Gem Eye ring? -he asked-

Cathy: Velvet... Actually knew you would try to change sooner or later. -she said- But she nearly changed her mind after how you acted. But... She still wanted me to give it to you anyways.

Aylon: -he looks at Leyden-

Leyden: She believes it's time you try to tame your darkness, and use it for good. -he said, smiling-

Aylon: -he looks at the ring again, then he takes hold of it to look at it for a few moment-

'Aylon thought long and hard about his experiences, from his orphanage, to being in the cult, to betraying said cult, to now with his actions on Christmas. He closes his eyes for a few moments, then he smiled, and since he took his rings off earlier, he puts the ring onto his right wrist, seeing it resonate with him, and he puts one of his dark rings onto his left wrist, then he closes his eyes for a moment, and breathes calmly, feeling his dark magic and new magic resonate a little bit.'

Aylon: -while he has his eyes closed, he starts shedding tears for the first time in a long time since he suppressed his emotions, looking at the group- Thank you all so much...

Leyden: No problem. -he said, winking and giving Aylon a thumbs up-

'Aylon and Leyden give each other a fist bump, with Aylon using his left hand with the dark ring, and Leyden with his robot right hand. Though light and dark meeting, it sparked abit violently, causing them to retract.'

Aylon: Oops! -he said-

Leyden: It's ok. -he said- We'll work on that.

'After spending another half-hour at the shelter, Leyden and co bring Aylon back to the tree, and told Velvet and the other sages about Aylon's actions. Velvet felt proud of Aylon for accepting the gift, willing to be better. Aylon helped with finishing the tree, this time when he and Cathy put the big star on, he used his magic to stabilize them both and it, successfully putting the tree on. Days pass to the night of Christmas Eve where everything was ready, and the Christmas concert was live, with Christmas rock and roll, as well as normal Christmas songs being played, and everyone attending was having a jolly good time, everyone's spirits being raised, and children having renewed hope with attending and giving Christmas wishes to the Santas there. The shelters also celebrated thanks to the efforts of the Knights of Aether and Velvet's crew. This indeed was one of the best Christmases the city's ever have. Once the band was taking a break, and people celebrating, Aylon approached the big tree, looking at the star on top.'

Aylon: -as he was looking at the tree, he looks at his Gem Eye vine ring, then at the tree again- ...I know you don't hate me, mom and dad. -he said- There has to be a reason why you left me at the orphanage... -he grips his right fist- And with my new friends... I will find you guys. I pray  you're alive... Next year, I hope we can celebrate Christmas once more.

Cathy: -she comes over to Aylon- Hey, Aylon. -she called to him- We're having cake right now! Come on over, before you miss out!

Aylon: Coming! -he said, then after taking a couple of steps forward, he looks at the star again- Merry Christmas, mom and dad... Be safe... -he walks off-

'The camera focuses on the star as the scene fades to black.'

[The End]

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Inkbunny

Sonic Project Story Mini-Chapter: Faith, Hope, and Light (Christmas story)

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