After that first day, Manic was just as eager to get going, but unfortunately the weather decided against an early morning trip. He inwardly scowled at the look of frost on everything, but he had to admit he wasn't surprised. At least a place like this couldn't really get more than an inch of snow at a time, with how much water was nearby. He hadn't really taken time to examine just how the area broke off. Sunset Heights was the last of the mainland, and from there it just broke off into large islands... That view of the bridges had really given him a great perspective on how expansive it all was.
It was almost lunch time by the time it was tolerable for walking barefoot, so he hurried to their `usual' spot. There was still a few places with frost in the shade, but at least in the places the sun was shining, all was back to normal. Though to his surprise, it was actually Sage who floated up to him. Her flat voice and calm demeanor always made him feel funny, but he supposed he just had issues with inorganic things.
``Father was going to come get you later tonight. The place he wishes to take you is more active and interesting once the evening hours hit. You are free to return to your hotel, unless you'd rather follow me to his temporarily domicile.''
``Oh!'' Well, that was a bit of a surprise. They weren't gonna hit up various places today, huh? Well... ``I'll follow ya. We can always do more questions-n-answers.'' Thank gods she was leading him, since he had... well, not really remembered where Eggman's apartment was that well yet. The last time he was carried there, and heading back to his hotel was a bit different than going to the doc's place...
This time, he made sure to look at the street signs and specific buildings that caught his eye. The apartment complexes weren't very big, but each of them was a bit different. Some were single floor, while a few had two stories. There was definitely no condominiums here, what with how many small buildings they had going. It was a bit of a maze walking uphill roads, and there was still a lot of construction that made for detours.
Still, he was able to recognize the general shape of the place Eggman chose to stay in, happily entering the small house. He gave a knock to announce his presence before stepping inside. The rotund scientist was at his computer station, jotting some information down with a bit of relief on his face. It looked like maybe some progress?
``Ah, Manic! I see you decided to join us. Looks like my systems have started narrowing down the sixth emerald to somewhere in the middle Tralius... Still a ways off, but finally I have progress again.''
Manic's ears perked. Really, they had it narrowed down to the middle of a continent? It was still a bit of a stretch, but at least they could start triangulating it. ``Sweet! Maybe tha' last one'll show up quick too.'' At least, he hoped! He really wanted to be able to meet this hero guy! What he did learn was insane, and he was eager to learn more. ``Ya busy, or can we do some talkin' while yer scannin'?'' He hoped he wasn't intruding, since Sage did sorta invite him...
``Ah, no, by all means, take a seat! I'm just jotting things down in case there's a hiccup.'' Eggman gave a dismissive wave, and Manic found himself once more in the cushiony couch. It was nice that the doc had two of them around the long table, perfect for conversations... ``Anything on your mind to ask already?''
``Uh... yeah, there is one, but ya prolly gonna call me crazy... years back, there was some crazy earthquake-like rumblin'. I know ya ain't a geologist, but...''
``Yeah, that was me, again.'' Eggman chortled, while Manic turned to look at the scientist over the top of the couch. Eggman must have felt him staring holes into his head, as he continued, despite still writing on his notepad. ``I had discovered manuscripts about a powerful creature sleeping in the core of the planet, so... I decided to try and capture it as a fuel source. Turns out this planet has been broken apart several times in the past by said creature, which is why it was so easy to do.''
``It's... been broken apart before... a planet can break apart n' go back togethah?'' That... that sounded fake as fuck.
``The Gaia Forces work in tandem to keep the planet in balance. Dark Gaia breaks it, and Light Gaia puts it back together. You can surmise that the Hero had a hand in restoring it. Despite the Chaos Emeralds coming from space, the Last Great Civilization was able to create temples that harnessed their strength so Light Gaia could more easily calm the dark beast into slumber again.'' With that, Eggman finished, and Manic stared hard as he wracked his brain. It made sense why an earthquake happened where it shouldn't have, but still... ``You really have missed out on a lot, my young friend,'' Eggman stated as he took a seat across from him.
``...Uh... yeah. Kinda happens when yer city has no news network or even cable tv...'' he sighed. He felt like they were stuck decades behind by now.
``That reminds me. There actually is one question I realized I should have asked earlier, but it didn't cross my mind until last night,'' Eggman hummed. ``About ten years ago... I did something that everyone on earth watched on live broadcast. I understand you hadn't restored any cable or satellite news networks, but... surely you saw the laser I used to blow off a chunk of the moon?''
``THAT WAS YOU?!'' Manic visibly gawked, and Eggman had to resist the urge to let his eye twitch. Chaos, how? How did they miss the fact that came from a fucking space colony?! ``We were all flippin' shit thinkin' a comet rocketed int' th' thing!'' A... comet? Really? A comet?
``You... never tried to follow the laser back to the space colony ARK?'' Surely some people would have assumed it wasn't just a comet. It wasn't like the ARK's existence was hidden from society. Manic blinked a few times at the remark, which was better than him looking stunned or confused, before cupping his chin.
``You know... a few people did say it looked like it came from there, yeah. But most o' th' higher-ups insisted th' place was shut down, even if it did have som'm that powerful. Ya tellin' me it does?''
``Did. That particular device is now non-functional, after Shadow used it to destroy the Black Comet. Which is another thing I'm surprised you somehow missed...''
``Oh, no, we knew about th' alien invasions,'' Manic gave a harsh shiver. ``We didn't get a lot of `em, but a squadron tried breakin' in. Castle artillery was able t' get the worst o' it, but thank gods Sonia n' I had weapon trainin'... One o' th' bigguns nearly got some civilians, but I managed t' cripple one wi' a meteor hammer. Real unconventional weapon fer a prince but works damn good. `Bout th' only fuckin' thing I actually aced...''
Now that was interesting. So the fact the ARK destroyed part of the moon was dismissed as a rumor, but some felt it to be true... and they did fight against the aliens. Well, at least he could say the city wasn't entirely closed off. A lot of things had happened in the last ten years! It was honestly a shock how little anyone of Mobotropolis knew about... anything. The isolationist method almost never worked out in the long-run... at least they were opening up now.
But now he had to address the fact Manic suddenly looked sad, talking about his classes.
``Something the matter?''
Manic perked up at the concerned tone. Damn, him too? Well, there was no time like the present... Manic gave a sigh, sitting across from Eggman as he stared at his paper. ``Well, I wanted t' ask som'm yesterday but forgot... It's about what Lightnin' said yesterday `fore we met.'' A pensive frown marred his features, as he rocked himself back and forth. ``Does m' face give off like... exaggerated emotions?''
There was a heavy beat of silence in the air, before Eggman shifted to rest his elbows on his knees, fingers interlaced in front of his big mustache.
``What brought this on?''
Well, he supposed he could explain... ``I was tellin' `im `bout m' new manicure. See... th' stylist asked me what m' favorite color was. An', well, I hadn't thought o' it in so fuckin' long... I guess while thinkin' I muttered pink, an' got embarrassed n' shit cuz I was speakin' out loud. She thought I was jus' embarrassed `bout likin' pink, but I told her it was cuz o' my etiquette classes. An'... well, as I was recountin' all `at shit, Lightnin' got real concerned, sayin' I looked, in his words, `downright depressed.''' He frowned, looking into those dark glasses. ``Like, I can't lie, it's frustratin' as fuck. But... he made it sound like in m' face it's like... traumatizin.'''
Eggman was silent for a moment, the only noise he made being a low hum as he tapped his fingers for a moment.
``I admit, I know little about your own experiences in the castle, but I have a theory. Two days ago, you talked about repressing your natural speech patterns to sound more like a noble. I'd wager you have to repress a lot of your personality and feelings when in serious moments. Yet, you continued to put on that `princely' facade until I insisted you talk normally.''
Well, that was kind of a duh moment. Of course, he just wanted to keep it in practice...
``So, you repress yourself even when you don't need to out of fear of `relapsing,' because it goes against your tutors' wishes, as if there's some sort of punishment involved. Do you think, then, perhaps... your `exaggerated emotions' are in fact the true emotions you're aggressively repressing?''
What... the actual fuck...
He couldn't help but just stare at the human across from him in disbelief. He was only expecting to hear that maybe it was his voice, or perhaps something funny his eyes did. Not to hear... that! He didn't know why, but he suddenly felt extremely vulnerable...
``...That... that's...'' It was a damn good thing he was sitting down already. Even as it was, it was almost like something just pulled all his energy out of him. ``...I think I need a mo'.'' Thankfully it seemed Eggman understood, letting him sink into the couch. That was... whiplash. He knew he was stressed. Being a prince was a stressful job. But... was he actually more stressed than he thought...?
Suddenly, it made sense why his mother and sister always offered him a hug before giving him some sort of advice. Maybe... maybe they knew more than he himself did. He'd have to ask them when he... went back. But... why did that idea make him so sad? He liked seeing his mother and sister... but... the looming threat of being yelled at once more by his tutors was like a ball of ice in his gut. He didn't want to deal with them...
He didn't even realize Eggman had left the room until he felt something being draped over his shoulder - a blanket?
Looking up in confusion, he only got a nod, realizing it was... a bit heavier. A weighted blanket? They made such a thing...? It...
``That feels nice...'' he murmured, carefully tugging the padded fabric around him. He wasn't cold, but something about that pressure was relieving. ``I... think I get it now. I think you're right, Doc. I... I think my teachers are givin' me more stress than I realized...''
``Do you mind if I ask another question?'' Eggman's voice was strangely soft, and Manic's ears perked up.
``Uh, no, go on.''
``Can you tell me a bit more about your teachers and why they stress you out so much?'' This was a topic he'd wanted to ask yesterday, but with all the curiosities of the general world, it hadn't been the right time. Perhaps today was a better day, since Manic brought up something more personal.
``I... I keep messin' up. I told ya I was in m' third year of remedial lessons, right?'' he muttered, running a hand through his quills. ``I can't test out cuz it ain't like, book stuff. It's all th' practical things. Dress codes, dancin', dinners n' banquets, speech n' communicatin', draftin', presentin,' all tha' shit. My other teachers weren't bad but they were pretty no-nonsense n' grilled me when I got too many things wrong... But these ones... gods, I can't mess up even once in their eyes or I practically fail!'' He was barely aware of even the fact he was curling the blanket more around himself.
``They'll snap at me if I miss a step in a dance... One of `em yelled at me fer callin' som'm cool instead o' interestin'... They give me th' sideeye every time I ferget t' add a damn `g' sound in words... It's jus'... they really want me t' be perfect like Sonia... I... It makes me feel so stupid, like I shoulda met their expectations by now. I just... fail so much at tha' stuff... I get so sick of their shit. I can't help it! I just feel stuck, repeatin' these classes over n' over, n' when I fuck up they look down their nose at me just like fuckin' Montclaire! It just... it makes me so pissed.'' He hugged his knees, staring off to the side.
``Something tells me it's a bit more than being pissed, with how you're curling up?'' Eggman decided to poke the hornet's nest. He had to be sure...
``I - !'' Manic started, only for his expression to soften slowly. He knew he always said he was annoyed with them, but after realizing how much stress he was under, how much stress he was actually showing silently... ``I... I'm scared, Doc. I wanna help Sonia... but if I keep failing m' classes... I `unno what I'm gonna do...'' Manic shuddered, his chest feeling tighter as his breathing picked up. He couldn't believe he was actually saying that! Especially to Eggman of all people... He never even told this to his sis or mom... But he was scared as hell.
Suddenly, the fabric covering his body felt a lot more oppressive than before, and he quickly shed the royal shirt and pants, leaving himself in only the ascot and gloves as he wrapped himself tighter. He hated this. He hated feeling so scared. He hated that his teachers made him feel like this! But it wasn't their fault... It was just the way they taught. Sonia got through it... she wasn't scared of it. Why was it him?
``Manic... I may be an outsider, but if I can offer one piece of advice... if your teachers are making you fear failure, they're not doing their jobs very well.'' Eggman stood up, his voice soft, but underneath, he could feel rage bubbling inside his body. Gods, what had these people done to this poor boy?! He never saw anyone switch from street-suave and flirtatious to this... bundle of insecurity. He wanted so badly to just wrap his arms around the shaking prince, but he wasn't here to pass judgment. ``Try and relax. We have a few hours before we can head out to tonight's destination. I'll see if I can get you some clothing from the hero's house. One of his friends has sent him clothing in the past, something may fit you, even if not to your tastes.''
Yeah, he didn't think he'd ever see Sonic wearing anything femme, even if Amy ever did... doubtful. But perhaps there was something that the poor lad could wear that didn't remind him of his castle life.
After giving his shoulder a gentle squeeze and making sure he had things covered, he gave a quick retreat. Manic needed some alone time. And he needed a walk to vehemently spew a few heated words. He didn't know why he was so worked up, but it wouldn't do to stay angry. Still... if his teachers were being that rigid with their instructions, he had to wonder if they actually knew what they were supposed to do. The whole kingdom had been upended while he was there, so it wasn't as if he had really taken the time to familiarize himself with their lesson plans... All he did know was that Manic was unhealthily being compared to Sonia, which was an unfair advantage.
The pink-haired princess had years of experience over Manic, most of it in her formative years! Manic didn't have that advantage, and his instructors surely knew that!
Thankfully a few trees along the path to Sonic's house were good punching bags, and he felt a bit better once he stepped through the door.
``Oh, Eggman, you're back already?'' Sonic perked up. ``Did you find the sixth emerald or something?''
``No. I believe you have some boxes of clothes Amy gifted you recently? I want to see if there's something there for your brother.''
Sonic's ears heightened at that, and Eggman wondered if he still remembered. ``Right, Manic... Um... how is he doing?'' Sonic stood up, deciding to follow, as they headed to his room. Eggman bit his lip for a moment, stewing over possible things to say. With how unstable the blue hedgehog's memory was, he wasn't sure if it would even register for long.
``Stressed, to put it mildly. It seems his practical instruction tutors aren't doing much for his self-confidence.'' He didn't need to give Sonic the full details. Not when the boy had his own problems. The boxes were stashed in the top of his closet, easy to reach, and he set them down to start looking through.
``Practical instruction? What's that mean?'' Sonic was happy to help out, fishing through the first box. He forgot even had these... where did they come from? Eggman said Amy... right, one of his friends. But why was it all in boxes...? Did she gift him this stuff but he never wore it?
``The things royalty has to learn that aren't just textbook knowledge, like dancing and communication. He's having trouble with them.'' Eggman started to fish out what looked like band t-shirts, noting some were mostly pop bands, but a few rock-and-roll groups Sonic had listened to. He had to admit, Amy knew her hero... ``There, this one should work.''
Sonic tilted his head at what was grabbed. It was a pretty simple tanktop, with some band on it, but for the life of him he couldn't figure out what the letters were saying. So many swoops and angles... Probably a metal band, then. ``Yeah, that looks good! I think he likes metal, or... at least I think he did when we were kids...?'' He was already having trouble remembering, but it was better than the other day at least. ``I dunno if there's anything for his legs, though... I can't remember ever wearing pants.''
``It'll work.'' With the tank top selected, he was happy to make sure Metal had his schedule, and returned. It was a relief to see Manic had fallen asleep on the couch, though he couldn't help but see that he'd apparently started crying at some point. With a bit of a sigh, he settled for taking Manic's strewn clothes and folding them up before putting them in a small box. There. That would keep him from having to hold them in-sight once he was brought back home.
Once Manic woke back up, he was a bit startled for a moment, before he remembered his current situation.
``Ah, finally awake!'' Eggman made sure to say nothing about the tear streaks on his cheeks, instead making a point to lay out the shirt. ``I managed to find something. Sadly it's not your colors, but... at least it's something less conspicuous. And oddly fitting for where we'll be going.''
``A metal band tank-top?'' Manic held it up after getting his wits, a bit surprised. It... looked like it'd fit him perfectly, minus the fact there weren't any slits for back spines. ``Ya sure th' hero won't mind if I cut th' back?''
``He never wears half of that stuff anyway, unless he needs to cover an injury. He won't miss it.''
Well, if he insisted... After taking a pair of scissors to make his own slits, he slid the fabric over with a sigh. ``Man, that feels so much bettah already...'' He couldn't believe how... stifled he felt. ``So, where exactly are we goin'?''
``Somewhere I think you'll find is right up your alley.''
---
When they arrived at their destination, Manic was giving him a very cute look, the way one of his eye ridges raised so high. ``A karaoke bar? Seems a bit off color fer ya, Doc.'' Clearly, Manic hadn't really had the chance to explore one, if that was his response.
``Oh, you just wait. It's not like your typical bar where people sing off key while drunk. And the food is phenomenal,'' he gave a coy grin before inviting him in, and Manic was pleasantly surprised by the warm atmosphere that greeted him. It was... clean. It completely lacked the oppressive stink of tobacco, and everyone seemed to just be chatting up, enjoying some bar food, and based on some clapping, someone had just finished a song.
And the stage was very high-end for a bar. An LED screen on the wall was currently in its standby mode, but he could tell it was used for showing the lyrics. There seemed to be a console at the front of it as well, near the floor, to help people with the cadences and such. He gave a low whistle at the impressive setup before Eggman was guiding him to a pair of seats at the bar. Thankfully they had steps for sapients, or he would've needed Eggman's help to get up - which, strangely, he didn't mind that idea at all. He'd already been on the guy's shoulders and in his arms...
He surveyed the area a bit, noting it was one of the few spots where there seemed to be a few more humans than there were sapients. Which made sense, since humans could drink more alcohol. Of note, he could see one of Lightning's guys at a booth, an armadillo and a flying squirrel at a table, definitely flirting with each other, and then closest to them at the bar was a small group of sapients. Though out of them, a gray wolf seemed a bit more antsy than the rest as he put his phone away.
``Got yourself a date this time, Doc?'' A server passing by asked with a coy tone, causing both human and sapient to blush hot. Manic, to his credit, only giggled hard at the idea, though he definitely tucked his head down, while Eggman sputtered.
``Oh come off it! He's an old acquaintance, we're catching up!'' he barked, though the server only seemed to giggle herself, scampering to a table. Eggman sighed before looking to Manic, a raised brow. ``Find that amusing, do you?''
``Eheh, well... this would be my ideal place if it was a date...'' he admitted, giggling harder and sticking out his tongue before they were addressed to order their food. After a bit of talk, Manic ended up with some sort of chicken wing entree, as many as he desired for a single price. Higher-up, but Eggman seemed fine with the order despite that. He couldn't help but feel a bit shy, murmuring his thanks while they waited and sipped at their drinks.
Finally, after some minutes, it looked like someone else was going up to the stage, and Eggman tapped Manic's shoulder.
``Show's starting. Now you can see how it works.''
Curiosity piqued, Manic turned to watch, as the screen lit up with a title card. He had to admit, he didn't recognize the song at all, but that was only natural since he hadn't heard anything new in fifteen years beyond the stuff he'd just gotten from the music store. It was a pretty peppy love song of some kind, definitely different from the usual soft ballads he'd come to associate with it. He could feel his fingers tapping along with the drums sometimes, but he tried to quell his urges. It was rude...
``C'mon, hedgehog, loosen up!'' the scientist huffed quietly, putting a hand on his shoulder. ``Remember what we talked about. You're not at the castle. Breathe. Enjoy yourself.''
``S-Sorry... it's... hard.'' He turned in his seat, looking up as if lost. It was almost like he was just waiting for one of his tutors to come from the shadows and snap at him... again.
``I know... perhaps the food will help.'' After all, there was nothing classy about chicken wings, and being in his metal-band tanktop and fingerless gloves, he definitely wasn't showing `class' here. ``Or maybe you could get up there and sing something? Like when you were a child?''
``O-Oh... Uh... I mean, I guess? But I `unno... only songs I remember are like... from when I was like, fuckin' seven. Feels a bit out o' place, don'tcha think?'' He pursed his lips before taking another sip. It sounded fun, but to go up there with only songs from over fifteen years ago sounded weird. He could maybe do a couple of the old classics, but he'd probably struggle a little. He missed the way Eggman frowned, putting his focus on the stage.
He didn't realize that his human companion was now trying to study everything about him. At first, Eggman had just been curious about the state of Mobotropolis. But now, he was definitely more concerned about the state of Manic's mind. Things just weren't adding up! He knew the boy was troubled - it'd be a miracle for anyone in Mobotropolis to not have some form of mental distress. But Manic was in the best place he could be... So why did it seem like being there was making him worse? Between his reluctance to leave the outlook yesterday, and his discussion of his teachers today... What was going on?
Thankfully, Eggman could see that their orders were coming after a few more minutes, and Manic was nearly drooling when presented with his first round.
``Country Spice and Parmesan Garlic!'' the server announced happily, while giving Eggman a huge soft pretzel with beer cheese. Manic grabbed a wing and proceeded to chomp around the two thin bones, easily getting sauce over his lips. But that was the thing about bar food - you'd get messy. It wasn't meant to be like a banquet, and it was finger food all the way. And that, Manic could get behind! He felt almost like a kid again, eating with his hands and listening to tunes.
``Fuck, these are phenomenal...'' he said around a mouthful, looking up at his human companion in a mix of awe and gratitude. He definitely knew what was up!
``See? This is a place to unwind. Enjoy yourself a little.''
Manic giggled, wiping his fingers on a stack of napkins. He had to admit, getting messy like this and not being glared at was... nice. Hell, he was expected to get messy! Slowly, he could feel the tension leave his shoulders as he ate more and took in the atmosphere. He honestly missed this. Even though it was a bar, it reminded him of the dives and back alley places he'd gotten into back then. A place meant to just escape society. It was nostalgic, despite the circumstances. Slowly, the containers of wings started to get replaced with bones and fatty pieces remaining from the meat.
Eggman gave a breath of his own once he saw Manic come more into himself. He'd tap his fingers on the bar during a particularly heavy drum bridge, or idly bob his head to the beat of a class-rock song that he could recognize. Finally...
It was nice to see Manic loosening up, and he could tell more than once the prince was eyeing the stage. The performances of the evening were going pretty well, if he had to be honest. Very few sung things horribly out of tune, and while some of the music was just outright not his type, the atmosphere made up for it. Another sapient had finished some sort of sad song, which was nice to round out the energy, and some polite clapping mixed with cheers from their table at least showed it was enjoyed.
Then again, he couldn't remember a time someone was booed off stage.
Another round of wings was slid over the bar, and his lip quirked slightly. ``I don't think I've seen an appetite like that outside of the hero's...'' Eggman chuckled. Manic paused as he picked up a fresh wing, noting this time it was like a mustard glaze.
``Yeah? I usually don't eat `is much, really. But it's so fuckin' good!'' he chuckled before tearing another chunk of meat off the bone. Safe to say, he definitely felt loads better now than he did earlier! And it was funny to know that this hero guy could pack away food too. Maybe they could have an eating contest sometime!
Still, as much as he was having fun, it was clear not everyone was.
It wasn't hard to miss the way the wolf at the bar was getting more and more depressed as the hour approached, the way he looked out at the street every so often. His face screamed disappointment, and it just got worse when his phone went off, and he was texted something. But while he wanted to mind his own business, Manic suddenly hopped off his stool and walked over and started to chat up the despondent sapient.
``Yo, dude, all good? Som'm happen?'' Eggman resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Of course Manic had that `help everyone' attitude, it ran in the family... With a bit of a grumble, he plopped his legs on Manic's seat to ensure no wise guy would get any ideas and think the few trays of food were all his. That had happened a couple times already, and he wasn't keen on it happening today!
``My friend isn't able to make it, he got sick... The bar is starting stage night at eight, but he has to leave back to his hometown after Friday... Just wrecked my plans tonight...'' he was clearly angry and sad at his plans being ruined, considering that meant he'd have to wait until the next time he was in...
``Ya want a backup?''
Eggman resisted the urge to choke. Oh, so Manic wouldn't just get up and sing something on his own since he was afraid of singing something `too old' but if a duet was in danger, he was all for whatever? He crossed his arms in an admittedly childish gesture, something that didn't miss the attention of the barkeeper who winked at him. He growled lowly until the chuckling person walked away, while he heard the conversation.
``Oh, uh... it's fine... the song's from an anime anyways, I wouldn't - ''
``East Yurashian Islands right? Bruh, I had t' study that language fer four years, if th' program has it in syllables I'm golden! Ya got both costumes in tha' suitcase?''
The way the wolf sputtered in a mix of shock and hope was actually adorable, as he nodded. ``Y-Yeah, I wear the blue, he was gonna wear the orange...''
``Long as I don't gotta wear shoes, I'll wear it! Don't worry, I made a livin' outta impromptu songs as a kid!'' In a flash, Manic was practically tugging him along to the provided dressing room, and as they crossed by his seat, he could swear Manic was pointedly looking at him... But surely - ``Guess ya get yer wish, Eggy~'' The claim was followed with a bold sticking out of the tongue, and he was not blushing he was not blushing...
Why did everything Manic do fluster him so much more than Sonic's flirty gestures?
Though as Manic talked, he found himself remembering... that was right. It seemed the triplets never had true singles. It was always some spur-of-the-moment improvisation song. And as much as he knew their voices were not matured enough to properly sing, the people loved it. Maybe it was just the messages behind the songs rather than the lyrics themselves... More questions to ask for tomorrow, certainly.
He leaned back against the bar while Manic did whatever prep work was necessary, chewing on his soft pretzel. Honestly, he was curious. What duet did this wolf want to sing that involved a foreign language? That wasn't very common, unless it was from a rather niche series. That could explain the lack of a dubbed version. And he'd honestly forgotten it was stage night - people loved to dress in costumes and sing. Usually it meant dressing up as a character from a movie and doing a number, or sometimes he'd see people in stereotypical pirate getups doing sea-shanties. Those were amusing, if a little rambunctious...
After the call for Stage Night was set, the lights dimmed slightly more for the first act, a rather pleasant take on some sort of love song from a new movie. He'd heard the commercials, but he couldn't be bothered, to say the least. He had to wonder if Manic was listening to the song he was set to perform - just for some last minute ear and vocal prep. He had to wonder if Manic sang at all during his tenure in the castle... last he checked, the royal family had a band, not a choir...
He was so lost in his musing that he almost missed the announcement, until he heard ``Special Guest,'' and he turned to the stage. ``Joining us from the Kingdom of Mobotropolis, let's give a warm welcome to Prince Manic as he steps in for a show cosplaying the lovely Zwei Wing!''
Now that was interesting. Did Manic reveal who he was, or did the people just put it together themselves? Manic wasn't one to boldly announce his presence... But then, as they walked on stage, the cheers fell to gasps as the two men presented themselves.
``HRNGH!'' Eggman actually had to clamp down on his nose as he beheld the costumes the wolf had set. The wolf had a light blue croptop and a sort of skort with a thick belt, and a pair of asymmetrical leggings done in light blue and white. A long streamer of light blue fabric hung from a clip in his hair, and the fat belt was even adorned with a giant wing from the back, flowing to his left.
And Manic himself was even more effeminate, sporting a pink and white dress with open chest cups, complete with beige ruffles like a tutu, and a giant bow around his neck came out with pieces as big as his head over his right shoulder, with a long pink ribbon flowing alongside it... A sort of pinkish fabric came down from the back of the skirt like a tail, and just like the wolf, a sort of wing was attached to the back, going off to his right.
Of course, while the wolf had boots of different heights, Manic was still keeping to his tradition of baring it, and he'd be a lying fool if the crowd wasn't shocked. A prince, wearing such a girly costume?
And while Eggman did know Manic was finding a love for femme fashion, it didn't make him any less stunned when he realized how damn good Manic looked in it. It was as if that outfit was made for him, down to the colors! He was definitely blushing now... What was this hedgehog doing to him? Was it his confidence in his body, or was it just the fact he liked the way that outfit hugged his form...?
``Heheh, thanks fer havin' me,'' Manic teased, tossing a wink. ``Now, who's ready fer a song, yeah?'' The round of whoops was enough, and Manic threw a thumbs up to whoever ran the software, showing the title card on screen. ``Let's go, Orbital Beat!''
Now, Eggman was by no means any sort of anime fan, but he could at least appreciate the fact the stage lights actually treated it like a concert, as that opening synth guitar riff was a sign it was pretty heavy...
``Now praying for your painful cry...'' It started with the wolf, with Manic repeating the line in a similar way, just barely cupping the mic to make that sort of distant crackle...
``Fuuh-uuh-hooo... yeaaa-eee-yeah...''
``FLYYYY!'' The two belting out that vocal with the true synth beat kicking off, safe to say, Eggman was NOT prepared for how long Manic carried that note! Shellshocked, he could barely even sit straight in his seat after that opener! But at least he could try and focus on the lyrics more than what Manic was doing... right? The screen showed the writing in three formats, at least. The symbols, the words written out in their language, and then the translation. And it even showed the words outlined in blue and orange, so he could see what parts Manic had...
``No matter how many times we pray,''
``even with the softest of lights,''
``They?re all swallowed up by the dark devilishness that seems to imprison us...''
``Like the cycle of karma,''
``to bring about revolution,''
``We simply can?t throw it all away,''
``So now,
as we,
always do,
We race on through...!!''
Holy. Shit. Manic was absolutely nailing it on the orange lyrics... even when they crossed lines, or more curiously, a full line where they'd sing together but one would sing only a couple words of each line, he was on track with the pacing! As much as he wanted to truly listen to the song, his eyes and ears were locked on the green prince killing it on stage. They were even moving like idols, with small dance moves rather than standing in place - had they watched a video or what?! And gods, Manic could move...
``Hotter and hotter, we're creating,
a refrain with our memories playing...
on the other side of liiiiife!''
Hot was right... Wait, no, what was he thinking?! Manic, hot?! No, he was just a good singer - which was natural! He'd done it since childhood, right...? But why was he so... entranced...? Manic was easily keeping pace, in sync with the wolf and going off into his own solo bits with relative ease. It was almost like he'd sung the song before, but that was clearly incorrect. Also, how the hell was Manic's pronunciation of the language so good?!
``Farther and farther, as we stare at the solitary Sirius...''
``Aaaa-aaaaahhh!!''
For once, Eggman was glad that he had to read to actually get what was being sung. If they'd dubbed this, he was screwed. Even as the wolf seemed to have a few more lyrics than Manic, his companion was proving his chops had not been worn down by time. It was like muscle memory, or something. Or he was just special...
With the final line being sung by Manic, cutting out with a tearing synth riff, the crowd practically roared. People had their phones out to record the show and everything, and Eggman wished he'd done the same. That was... amazing. Beautiful, even. The wolf looked like he was moved to tears by the reaction, and for a moment, Eggman had to fight his urge to scowl when Manic was hugged by the blue-wearing sapient. That goat-like laugh tickled him in such a funny way...
As the next show started, the two disappeared back into the dressing room, getting out easier than getting in, at least... He actually sputtered when Manic returned with that shit-eating grin. ``Sooo, how was that?''
Eggman could do little but actually stare, removing his legs so Manic could get back in his seat, pride practically oozing from his frame.
``That was... beautiful... It's like you've sung that for weeks. How did you pick up that kind of skill?''
At least this time, he could be proud he got Manic to blush even deeper than the prince had done to him. His muzzle looked actually like a tomato!
``B-B-Beautiful...?! You're just tryna butter me up...'' he finally murmured after a moment. ``I mean, I'm pretty good wi' pickin' up tones, an' the lil screen was helpful. I jus' listened a few times t' get a feel fer it. An' I know th' language easy enough.'' He giggled shyly, twirling his fingers in his ascot. It was honestly adorable... ``Singin is always m' pride, can't deny tha'.''
Eggman tilted his head as he tried to get into Manic's thoughts. His body language radiated pride now, but at the same time, when he talked he tried to downplay it. As if it was impressive but not to the degree Eggman saw it as. How strange... He'd have thought Manic was at least a bit more like his brother in his self-confidence, if not borderline cocky. Was he just trained to use more humble language to appear more approachable? Wait, yes, of course he was, they literally just talked about that this afternoon... So... Was this yet another instance of his mental repression? Gods, how much of his true self was he being forced to keep under lock and key?!
Of all the times he wished he could go back to Mobotropolis, if only to give those tutors a what-for.
``Well, you definitely have every right to feel proud,'' he said after a moment, picking up his drink, offering a small cheers. This time, Manic's grin actually grew, as they clinked their glasses, and they turned to watch more of the performances. Now that he'd done his own number, he felt a lot less stiff. He'd gotten to wear a really nice costume that showed his feminine side, busted out his vocals, and wowed a crowd! It honestly felt like he was just getting things knocked off his bucket list this week...
Manic found himself idly nodding along to some of the new pop songs being played next, though he could swear one of them sounded like it was just reusing a song from when he was a toddler. Definitely had similar rhythm at least... He playfully snagged a piece of Eggman's pretzel, giggling at the indignant squawk from the human. By now it was getting dark out, making the dramatic lighting even better, so he didn't mind being a little devious with his companion's food.
The din of conversation was low while people took turns performing, and Manic got to see another pair of guys, dressed as characters he saw in a cartoon, do some sort of `combat duet.' Clearly a musical number, which he playfully rolled his eyes at, but nonetheless enjoyed. Patrons came and went, some sticking around after their food was gone to catch some specific song or get their own chance to sing. It honestly made it pretty fun to see who was there to eat and who was there to perform...
Once the song ended, casting the bar into its usual lull, Manic turned to Eggman with a curious grin. ``So, when did ya find - ''
The end of that sentence skipped his brain as a horrid sound came from the back, as if something had exploded. A harsh, familiar sound, one that echoed in his head. Patrons jumped at the sound and the sight of smoke, and there was a moment of shouting before everything seemed to blur. His vision started to shift, his ears rang as the cacophony blurred into a ringing sensation. And he felt - squeezed! In a strange shift, he found himself not at the bar, but at another stage, pinned near the wall.
It had happened so long ago, but to Manic's eyes and ears, he could still see the pile of timbers trapping him in place. SWATBots storming through the hole they'd created, blowing out the wall as the floor filled with smoke... His siblings springing into action, a blur blur bouncing off a couple tinheads. The audience was left shrieking as his siblings tried to clear a path for escape, but it couldn't save them all. He could only watch, helpless as some stragglers started to be dragged away. His arms were stuck, he couldn't even grab his medallion!
---
The moment the explosion happened, Eggman bit back a curse. But thankfully, at least from the sounds of it, it wasn't anything disastrous. ``Everyone get clear! Got a blown machine!'' Someone shouted, and that was at least enough to know no one had gotten hurt. If anything, the only danger was the smoke billowing out from the kitchen, chasing employees out. Someone was grabbing a fire extinguisher, at least, just in case anything was still ablaze.
He took a breath before turning to his companion to ensure he wasn't going to try and rush in - only to see that the prince was completely frozen in place. ``Manic...?'' he asked tentatively, his eyes roving over his frame. With the tanktop on instead of the royal shirt, he could see his breathing was far too shallow to be normal. His hands were flat out, fingers spread and immobile, eyes unfocused. It looked as if he was staring at something at the bar, but when he noticed Manic hadn't even blinked in almost fifteen seconds, he started to get up.
``Sonia... Sonic...'' his voice was so low, almost a whisper, and Eggman sprung into action.
``Hey! We need an ice pack over here!'' Cold. He needed something cold. He didn't like trying to get attention on him, but the staff was in `emergency alert' mode. Food, cleaning, that didn't matter. The situation needed controlled, and right now there were two of them.
Thankfully, the bartender came around with one in only a moment, his eyes falling on Manic's still frame. ``The hell's going on?''
``Flashback.'' Eggman didn't waste time with a spiel. ``Manic, hey. Can you hear me?'' Moving him was definitely not a good idea right now, much as he wished it was a quieter space... ``You're okay.'' He had to think back to his studies. Reorienting. He had to get Manic to realize he wasn't... wherever he thought he was. ``It's Eggman. You're in Sunset Heights, on a date with me.''
``S... Sunset...'' Manic's voice was so soft, but it was a sign.
``Yes. Sunset Heights. I have some ice, it'll help. Hold out your hand.'' By now, it seemed others got the message as they paused their concerned mutterings, some even scooting further back to give the two some space. Eggman gave a sigh of relief at that, watching Manic slowly, oh so slowly, start to offer his hand. He kept his voice low, reminding the struck prince of the current date and time. He had to keep himself calm to pull his companion out... Once he saw the open palm, he carefully put it in Manic's hand, and he finally saw him blink again. ``Try rubbing your arm with the ice.''
``E-Eggman...?'' he murmured, starting to rub the ice pack against his skin, the cold sensation easing him to reality. Manic's eyes started to retain their focus, but he was definitely not clear yet, as his chest started to rise and fall a bit too much for the scientist's liking. ``M-M' ears are ringin'... What's... Where are you?''
``Shh... it's alright. I'm right beside you. Just keep rubbing the ice. Your brain needs a minute to catch up to things. You're safe here.'' He knew that he couldn't pull Manic out too quickly, but the less he had to relive any trauma, the better. But at least Manic recognized his voice, and was using that as an anchor. ``Easy does it. You're okay. You were just getting ready to ask me something, remember?''
He could see the green ears twitch, a good enough sign he was listening better now. He refused to put a hand on him until he knew for sure the poor lad was back to normal. For a brief moment, he considered getting a paper bag just in case, but it seemed after another minute of Manic's stiffness and slow movements, he gave a shuddering sigh. Those gray eyes blinked slowly, as he was clearly trying to get his vision in order.
``There we go... Thank you,'' he carefully took the ice pack away, handing it to the bartender. ``Whew! Thank gods I still remember my psychology training...'' he murmured. Manic rubbed at his temples, as if trying to ease a headache, before speaking up.
``Th' fuck jus' happened...?'' He started looking around, noting the fact several people were looking his way with a mix of relief and concern. ``I... I thought I was...''
``You had a flashback, Manic.'' Manic turned to the scientist in confusion. He heard of flashbacks as far as in cartoons, but... ``It's a type of panic attack. The explosion in the kitchen caused you to remember something traumatic from your past. Your mind was essentially in another time.'' His explanation, gentle as it was, didn't do well for Manic's nerves. Especially with all the people looking at him. Gods, he really couldn't keep himself together, could he...?
``I-I think I'm done... can ya take me back t' my room...?'' He just really put a damper on the mood, didn't he? People were going to start talking, he was sure... The future king, locking up in a damn bar because his brain decided to tell a bad story... He needed to get away from here.
Eggman gave a nod, unaware of Manic's mental gymnastics. He was sure the poor lad was just tired from the flashback. They could be exhausting, he'd heard. He took Manic by the hand, giving it a gentle squeeze as they walked their way to his hotel. He could come back with the box of clothes.
The walk was done in silence, though Manic's brain was anything but quiet. How could he be so damn weak?! How could he just... ruin a perfectly good time with Eggman like that...? He felt like a shitty date, even if it wasn't an actual date. The fact Eggman was still walking him back was a surprise in itself. Why wasn't he glaring at him for his foolishness?
``Here we are,'' Eggman's soft voice hummed out. ``You go on and get rest. I'll get your outfit brought back later. Keep the tank top.'' He gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze. ``I'll see you tomorrow. And... thank you for indulging me.'' Copying Manic's behavior from yesterday, he knelt down to give a one-armed hug of his own. He chuckled at the soft tense of surprise, but soon felt those hands awkwardly hug his midsection again, before letting him go.
Manic was only vaguely aware of his legs dragging to the elevator, exhaustion and shame hanging off his frame. He flopped face-first into the pillow, a soft sniffle his only sound as he tried to shut off his brain and get some sleep. Today was... exhausting.
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