Shadow the Hedgehog

"They weren't doing anything Red. Besides sometimes you need to have fun."

"So do you have any plans for your future here Anna?" asked Crowley.

Shadow, Rouge, Hope and Crowley all made their orders quickly.

"I suppose so. Your quirks do make you far more interesting my dear."

"And of course you're flawless," he replied sarcastically.

"You of all people should know my skills Red."

"I wasn't called Moebius' Ultimate Lifeform by my creators for nothing."

"That's what I meant, official ruler. And Melody is right. I know I have a large ego. Of course, mine's justified."

"I know. I'll be careful," thought Hope. "Yes that's right. I had no plans on leaving or crossing her so I'd still be in her employ. With Anna here perhaps she'll declare herself ruler now."

"Oh sorry. I'll try to be quiet," thought Hope. "I think it was a combination of fear, attraction and the knowledge that treating me well would mean I'd stay around. And as she knew no one would be a better bodyguard than I, she wanted to keep it that way."

Hope giggled before wondering what assortment of payment Crowley received. "Well to be honest I wouldn't want rescuing: she was the best employer I ever had. Her payments might have been... unorthodox but I could usually either sell them or make use of them, and she always acted pleasantly towards me, whuch was refreshing," said Crowley.

"I suppose I was rather fortunate in that there never really was a dull moment. Especially now, as I imagine I'd be still employed by Alicia at this moment in time. She'd pay me with everything and anything but money."

"Ah I see. Hopefully you'll enjoy it."

Crowley glanced over at Anna's menu where her finger landed. "I hope you like pasta," he said, noticing her choice.

Shadow, Rouge, Hope and Crowley also had a look at their menus, quickly deciding on their meals.

Crowley returned the look, seeing nothing wrong with his actions. He was there to eat, not to hear stories of botched missions.

"I see," said Crowley, disinterested.

"It is, though unfortunately it often flies over some people's heads."

Crowley laughed. "You aren't the first to tell me that."

"My apologies that was not my intention."

"I'm sure you won't. Everything points towards your assimilation here."

"That's good. So long as you have a few people who care for you, you'll be fine here."

Crowley turned back to Anna. "But anyway, yes I would struggle to find a new occupation I'd enjoy. How're you settling in here?"

"I see. And how pray tell do we help?" asked Crowley.

"And would you care to share that Red?"