Mobius Reborn: Rise of Robotnik

[Skye Prower 343]

Mobius Reborn

Season One: Rise of Robotnik

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Episode 1 - The First Day

 

At first glance, the planet moving peacefully in its orbit could be mistaken for Earth.  But a closer look beneath the clouds showed a subtly different layout to the continents, as if the drift of the tectonic plates had somehow followed a slightly different course.

In the darkness above the planet, a gargantuan shape blotted out the light from several of the stars.  The ship in orbit was massive, and as it orbited above the planet the underside began to slide open, revealing row upon row of silver pods.

Aboard the craft an observation window looked down, providing a perfect view of planet Mobius.  A timer ticked down, the digital numbers reflected by the surface of the window as a red suited figure approached, his large appearance also partially reflected.  He regarded the world below with a twisted smile as one of his hands ran through his impressive moustache.

Over the intercom, robotic voices began to report in.

“Flying Battery Two in position.”

“Flying Battery One in position.”

“Flying Battery Five in position.”

“Flying Battery Four in position.”

“Flying Battery Three in position.”

The twisted smile became wider as the large human allowed himself to savour the moment as the clock neared the end of the countdown.  His hand moved to open a channel to the other ships in orbit around the planet.

“All craft...” he began.  The timer reached zero, and he threw out his arm in an exaggerated gesture.  “FIRE!” he bellowed.

There was a series of dull thuds in the craft as clamps below the ship were released, dropping the pods onto the unsuspecting world below.  As they hit the atmosphere, the flames made them appear like an intense meteor shower.

With an almost manic laugh, the human watched the trails of fire across the planet. 

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*Play Title Theme!*

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Tails, Sunset Valley Orphanage, 0000 hours Mobius Standard Time

Atop the roof of the large, ornate building of the orphanage, a young fox gingerly began setting up his telescope.  Of course he wasn’t supposed to be up here, but none of the staff knew he’d managed to find a copy of the balcony key and then climb the rest of the way up.  Heights had never bothered him after all.  Besides, the roof was the best place for stargazing, as long as he made sure his telescope was secure and wouldn’t slid away. 

Satisfied with his work, he leant over to look through the lens, his twin tails, a feature unique to him, but a target of torment for the other children, moved slowly behind him.  His brow furrowed with confusion as the star he was focusing on seemed to vanish, then the next second a bright flash through the scope caused him to leap back with a cry, rubbing his eye.  He gazed up at the sky and gasped, watching the streaks of light flash all across the night sky.

“I’ve never seen a meteor shower like this,” he breathed to himself, watching transfixed as one meteor flew almost overhead, though its path took it several miles away.  As struck, the fox could only hear a faint boom after several seconds.  From the delay between the impact and the rumble, he calculated it was maybe… twenty miles away.

The shower soon ended, leaving just the stars and the moon once more.  Grabbing his telescope, the fox slid off the roof carefully back onto the balcony and headed inside.  He made his room with a nameplate that read ‘Tails’, the somewhat unflattering name that had been given to him when he was found.

Putting the telescope away, Tails drew out a map from a drawer on his desk, trying to pinpoint the location of where the meteor landed.  His finger tapped on the spot, feeling confident about his estimate.  Turning, Tails surveyed his room thoughtfully.

“It’s a sign.  It’s time for me to leave,” he said firmly.  Nodding to himself, he grabbed a rucksack and started to pack.

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Sleet and Dingo, Great Mercian Opera Hall, 0014 hours MST

At the back of the stage, three bird Mobians were sleeping uneasily, still wearing parts of the armour from the Battle Bird Armada.  The bulky figure of the polar bear mercenary they’d hired to protect them moved in the shadows, keeping watch over the doors.

But it wasn’t the doors where the threat came, but the walls.  There was a thunderous crash as part of the wooden wall exploded out, an oversized orange furred Dingo charging through, straight into the mercenary. 

The sound of the forceful entrance jolted the birds awake, and they scrambled for their weapons.  Only for a bolt of energy to slam between them.  Shocked, they looked up to see a thin, armoured wolf aiming a strange pistol weapon at them.

“Make another move for those weapons, and the next bolt won’t miss,” spoke the wolf in a slightly nasally voice.  One of the birds disregarded the advice and snatched up his weapon.  But the wolf was as good as his word, and it was the last action the bird took as he slumped to the floor.  The others, in shock, held up their hands in defeat.

“I got him Sleet!” called out the Dingo, holding up the unconscious polar bear.  From the injuries on the Dingo, it looked like it had been a close fight, but even now, those same wounds were rapidly healing.

“Excellent work Dingo,” grinned Sleet.  “I’m sure the Armada will pay a nice bonus for someone who aided Rogues.”

“You can’t take us back!” exclaimed one of the birds in horror.

“If you don’t want to go back, you can join your friend on the floor,” Sleet replied with obvious menace and intent in his voice, indicating with his pistol.  The bird fell silent.

“So good we all understand each other,” Sleet grinned.  “Dingo, drag them to the craft.  It’s time to get our payment.

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Skye Silverthorne, Feral Forest, 0057 hours MST

“Wake up sleepyhead!”

With a gasp, the wolf jolted awake in the back of the jeep, almost banging her head on the seat ahead.  The bear driving let out a laugh at the wolf’s shock.  But the Otter in the passenger seat looked back concerned.

“Another nightmare Skye?” he asked gently.  The wolf nodded.

“Past few days…. They’ve gotten worse again,” Skye sighed.  The nightmares had plagued her as a child; a dark figure, and crumbling cites.  But over the years they’d faded.  Until the past few months.  She glanced at her watch.  It was almost 8 in the evening, and she’d already been drifting off.  It showed just how much these nightmares were affecting her sleep.

“Maybe it’s all this talk of abductions by big, pink men,” joked the bear.  “The aliens are sending you dreams!”

“This isn’t funny Brian,” snapped the Otter.  Brain just shrugged.

“Nightmares or not, we’ve a job to do.  The meteor landed somewhere in the forest near here, and the last thing we need is it starting a fire,” he pointed out.  “Once we get back, then we can worry about Skye having a few bad dreams.”

Skye bristled a little at the dismissive tone in Brian’s voice, but turned to look out the jeep’s window.  The reflection looking back at her wasn’t that of a pure wolf, her muzzles was clearly more fox like, as was her tail.  She blinked, seeing movement in the distance.

“Hold on, I think I see something,” Skye spoke up, but as she did so, she felt a wave of fear pass over her.

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Wave, Battle Bird Armada Airship above the Central Sea, 0632 hours MST

The teenage Swallow slammed her fist down on the workbench, tearing the bulky helmet off her head.  “Do it this way, cause that’s how we’ve always done it,” she muttered angrily to herself.  “I’ve increased its flight time by almost fifty percent, but it’s too different so that bonehead says it’s all wrong.”  Wave looked down at the board lying on the work bench, the Extreme Gear she’d just repaired, and modified.  “No… I’m not breaking you down and losing all my hard work,” she said determinedly. 

Then she caught the conversation between the guards outside.

“Hey, you heard about those three that went Rogue?  We’ve got them already!”

“Good.  Those traitors deserve what’s coming to them.  Why would anyone want to desert the Battle Bird Armada?”

A sigh escaped Wave as she listened in.  The only way for her not to be stuck doing repetitive tasks over and over again for stubborn, old fashioned bosses would be to go Rogue.  And doing that wasn’t just risking punishment, but the Battlekukku’s new pet bounty hunters had swiftly brought back all the recent Rogues.  If she wanted to escape, she’d need the perfect plan, the perfect team…. Or the perfect opportunity.  Preferably all three.

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Tails, Deerwood Forest Train Station, 0746 hours MST

“You’re travelling alone kid?  Where are you parents?”

Tails jumped a little as the conductor spoke to him, he’d been distracted watching the countryside roll past from the train window.  But he’d already planned an answer for the question.  “They’re waiting for me at the station.”  The conductor just nodded, checked his ticket, the cost of which had pretty much been all of Tails’ pocket money, and moved on.

The young fox’s eyes were downcast a little.  In truth, he had no parents.  He’d wondered how life might have been if he did.  Would he have the same problems in his life, or would they have supported him despite his differences.  His eyes glanced towards his twin tails.  Could that be the reason… rather than something happening to them... did they abandon him?

His reverie was broken by the whine of the train pulling into the station.  Quickly he pulled his rucksack onto his back and almost ran off the train, looking around the station with a grin of excitement, mixed with some nervousness.  As Tails made his way towards the exit, he paused, hearing the broadcast over a radio in the station café.

“…reports from all over Mobius report these strange meteors fell across the world in the same fifteen minutes.  Members of the public are being urged to stay away from any crash sites…”

Tails brow furrowed.  “That can’t be right… a meteor shower can’t fall across the whole world at the same time…” He shook his head, they must have got their facts wrong.  With a deep breath, he strode out the station exit, towards his adventure.

[Chromatic Terras 20]

Knuckles, Angel Island, 0005 MST

Woken up by the rumble of the ground, Knuckles looks around to see multiple bright lights descending from the sky and onto the floating island. He watches for a moment as others pass by, diving through the clouds onto the world below. He takes a few steps forward on the altar, ready to walk down the stairs, before looking back at the large green gem before him.

"The Master Emerald....." he says to himself, staring at it in wonder as it continues to rotate ever so smoothly atop the altar shrine. He decides to take a seat on the stairs. Resting his head on his knee as he dozes off again.

Vector, Casino Night Zone, 0100 MST

"GET BACK HERE YOU CRAZY BROAD!" Vector yells out, chasing through the vibrant streets after Rouge the Bat

"Tsk, you're always such a persistent one! Here I thought detectives are supposed to let the police do the dirty work." Rouge sighs back, flying through the air with a bag full of gems and money she had stolen from the park. Vector uses a nearby spring board to leap up into the air, grabbing hold of the bag and dragging it, along with Rouge, to the ground.

"This is the last time i'm letting you get away from me, or the authorities! I'm taking you in right now!" Vector orders, pulling the bag away from Rouge ready to fight.

"Oh really? Allow me to teach you to stay in your office twiddling you thumbs like a so called "detective" should be then." Rouge retorts back, getting ready to leap at Vector, however the two get sidetracked from a bright light above as they see a massive metal object hurling straight for them. Vector quickly snaps back to his sense, sprinting over and pushing Rouge and himself to safety as the object comes crashing down onto the street. He looks back in astonishment at the small crater it left, as dozens of others can be seen from the sky like shooting stars across the world.

"My gems...." Rouge whimpers, before kicking Vector in the chest and getting up. "You best make sure to pay me back for this one, you stupid croc." she spits before running off into the night. Vector can only watch in pain as she disappears just in time before the authorities catch up to the action. He then rolls onto his back and passes out.

Storm, Battle Bird Armada Airship above the Central Sea, 0635 hours MST

Storm walks quietly down the halls of the airship as the other birds all look at him in awe. He was one of the largest bird on the fleet in recent years, and many of the high command expected much from him, however he had never really gained the urge to fight and steal like the others. He simply played off the role as a brute before finally making way to his destination and heading inside the room.

"Umm Wave, sorry I'm late." he whispers, closing the door behind him. "It took a little time getting to everything, but I think I managed to get all the parts on your paper that seemed like they were missing." Storm pulls a pouch from his belt, slowly letting the bolts and pieces slide onto the work bench, some of which weren't compatible with the gear. "Umm, hopefully this is everything. I never really got too much time to learn about the extreme gear." he mutters, hoping to help out.

Vector, Casino Night Zone, 0655 MST

Vector slowly opens his eyes again, his vision coming into focus as he discovers to be lying in a hospital room. He quickly sits up, looking outside to the city before him to see that day had already came. He slides out of bed, removing his IV and begins to walk towards the elevator. One of the nurses sees him and calls out, however he ignores her and continues moving. As he gets onto an elevator, an old Rabbit walks in with him.

"Well well well, if it isn't Chief Hoppington. What brings you here?" Vector asks, pressing the button for the ground floor.

"Well I was here looking after you of course. It took 5 of my guys just to get you into the ambulance here after the commotion. I'd say I'm surprised to see you up again already if we weren't here on Tuesday." the chief replies, pulling out a notebook.

"Well you know me, always looking to do the best of my job." Vector chuckles. "So whats the situation with that strange object that fell from the sky?"

"Not sure yet. There's multiple of them all over the zone and the haven't moved or cooled down enough for us to get close yet. Right now they're all marked off and kept under watch. Any damages are being repair in the meantime."

"Hmm, interesting indeed. Rouge the Bat seemed just as surprised as I was, so it doesn't seem like she got any outside help in her recent heists. I'm gonna see if I can grab a sample and head back to the office."  Vector ponders as the doors open up and he begins to walk out the hospital lobby.

"It may be best if you stay there once you get back." the Chief replies, causing Vector to turn back confused. "Vector, as absurd as some of your cases have been, you've done a great job as a detective for me these past couple years. However, between Rouge's appearance and all these new criminals running around, you just aren't qualified to be jumping into my police work on a moments notice. This is the second time this week you've been found completely unconscious after chasing Rouge around all night after a robbery. I understand you have that natural strength and speed, but without the proper stamina and training you're only causing more harm to yourself and our work. Please just stick to what you were hired for. I don't think I'll be able to save your job from the commander if this happens again." he explains, ripping a piece of paper from his notebook and handing it to Vector. "This is the bill for your visit. I covered you the first time, and even that almost got my ears chewed off."

Vector takes the bill, looking at it for a moment in disappointment before placing it in his armband.

"Thanks Chief....I'll do my best." he replies before leaving the hospital.

Gamma, Angel Island, 0800 MST

Among the many pods that had landed on the floating Island, a larger red boxed craft had descended down in the center of them. With the travel being shorter for the floating island, and after some time of cooling off, a door finally breaks open as a large metallic being steps out. It's body lets off a little steam as its eyes turn on bright green and begins surveying the area. It then pulls its arm to its head.

"Master Robotnik, this is squad leader E-102 Y Gamma reporting in. Surveillance probes show no signs of life, other than small creatures. Energy readings from the power  source are showing a northern travel. Proceeding to execute mission now."

Edited 29 January by Chromatic Terras

[Thire 84]

Josh and Larry, Lynx homestead, Mercia, 0751 MST 

“Morning sleepyhead.” Said Josh to a half-sleepy Larry. “Mnnn... Morning...” slowly replied Larry. Josh was in the middle of making some PBnJ sandwiches when he stopped and heard the radio.

 “…reports from all over Mobius report these strange meteors fell across the world in the same fifteen minutes.  Members of the public are being urged to stay away from any crash sites…” 

“What’s that all about on the news?” Asked Larry. Turning off the radio, Josh replied: “Nothing to concern yourself with.”

”Does it have anything to do with that rumble last night?” “Aren’t you usually a rock when you sleep? Never mind,  we best get ready for helping out at the orphanage.” They then packed up and headed out. Josh then thought to himself;

“Maybe Chuck knows about it...”

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Elias, Casino Night Zone, 1342 MST 

Elias, after hearing about these ‘meteors’ decided to put his skills to use. “I certainly hope he’s not out of business since last time.” thought Elias while walking down a busy road. His destination was a local gear shop he’d often go to when he was an archeologist. “Still, I’m glad at least someone’s interested in finding out the truth.” He was hired by a third party claiming to be interested in whatever the site might hold, but he knew they had other plans. Still he couldn’t refuse considering he needed the pay.

”Well well, glad to see yous still alive, Elias!” Barked a large Dog from behind the cash register. “Been too long Doug. How’s the family?” Replied Elias. “Ya know how rough it is when suddenly ain’t no one has ‘n interest in ya line of work, dont’cha?” “I’ll say.”

Elias paused. “Look- about last time-“ Elias was cut off. “Now see here, they was crimmies and there was no tellin’ what they could’ve done to the rest of the place. I’m glad yous stopped ‘em.” “So, about the damages?” “Negligible, I had no use for dat table anyways.” 

Doug gave him a look. “Yous after the sky rocks, aint’cha?” Elias gives him a look back. “You know me, could be a great story.” “Riiiight. Totally not some conspiracy.” Elias rolls his eyes. “I just need some gear and provisions, then you can go back to thumb twiddling if you like.” “Har har, yous a comedian now? Yeah I’m sure I gots the stuff yous need.” 

————————

Charles and Josh, Uncle Chuck’s lab, Mercia, 1453.

”You don’t know a thing about them? 

Josh asked Chuck over some Chilie Dogs. 

“Sorry kid, all I heard was a rumble, and that’s it. Shouldn’t you be at the orphanage?” Retorted Chuck. “Eh, they’re fine. Besides, I haven’t been this interested in something for a while.” “I figured. You gonna ‘Karate Chop’ it too while you’re at it?” Chuckled Chuck (chuckle) 

“Seriously? *sigh* At least I don’t have an evil plot to blow up the whole town.” “Ah! You got me there, kid.” Laughed Chuck. “Anyways, be seeing you, kid.” “Later Uncle Chuck.” Josh replied as he left back to the orphanage. 

————————

(I feel like I messed up or didn’t do this right. I’M SUCH A NEWBIE.) 

Edited 4 June by Thire-chu

[Seviper the Fang Snake 345]

Antoine D'Coolette, Old D'Coolette family home, Mercia, 0815 MST

Antoine woke up with a long yawn. He got up from his bed and headed downstairs.

"I wonder what that noise was last night...oh well."

They coyote looked through his cabinets to see if there was anything to make but unfortunately it was cleared out.

"Guess I'll go into town and get something there." Said Antoine as he sheathed his sword and walked out the door.

 

Charmy Bee, Casino Night Zone, 0700 MST

"I'm starving...can't go back home now. I don't wanna marry that girl. Girls are gross. Good thing I got some pocket money before I ran away." Said Charmy as he searched for a good place to eat that was affordable.

"Too fancy. Too healthy...Ooh! A chili dog stand!" Said the bee as he flew to the vendor and obtained the chili dog.

 

Bean the Duck, Battle Bird Armada Airship above the Central Sea 0640 MST 

"There seems to be no improvement after the procedure...shame. We were hoping you were the test subject we've been looking for but you like the others were utter failures! You two! Escort this reject to a cell. I guess Project Dynamite is a lost cause..." Said a bird in a white lab coat and googles.

"Sure thing Doctor Bin." Said one of the guards as they carried the green feathered duck away.

Bean's mind slowly began to descend into madness.

 

[Geoffrey St John 142]

Geoffrey and Ian St John, St John house, Mercia 08:30 MST

"Morning dad, how did you sleep?" Asked Geoffrey as he entered the living room. Ian was sat drinking a cup of tea. "Not well son. Something is happening out there. You better stay on guard today. I have a big job today so I won't be home till late" said Ian as Geoffrey got himself a cup of tea. Geoffrey nodded to what his father said and sat down as Ian finished his tea and left for work. "The kids may be quite lively today. I think I may need to focus on him though" thought Geoffrey as he drank his tea.

 

Mighty The Armadillo, Forest, 01:15 MST

Mighty sat alone in his camp staring up at the trees. He had heard a loud bang not far away but decided not to look into it. "I think I will enjoy this peace while I have it. That place will be swarming with people who want to see what it is. I just like to follow the road" thought Mighty as he lay his head on to the floor and faded off to sleep.

 

Ray the Flying Squirrel, Sunset valley orphanage, Mercia 07:30 MST

Ray had been cowering under his bed for hours after he heard someone creeping around the hall outside his room. He kept himself covered as he stared at the door with bags under his eyes.

 

Johnny Lightfoot, Mobotropolis, 00:25 MST

Johnny was trying to sleep on a bench in a small park shivering. Having only just arrived in town he had nowhere to sleep or any money. "I'm the morning I better find a job to earn some money otherwise I will be stuck like this forever" said Johnny to himself when he heard a woman scream. Johnny quickly ran to her aid and saw she was being mugged by two masked men. Without hesitation he grabbed a near by twig and stepped in front of the woman.

"Now Now, it is not nice to steal. Don't make me have to lecture you" said Johnny in a mocking time which aggravated the muggers. They both tried to punch him but Johnny dodged both of them and hit one of the muggers behind the knee. The other mugger tried to punch him but Johnny blocked it with his arm. The mugger who Johnny had hit got back up and tried to kick him but missed and accidentally hit his team mate sending him flying into a walk.

"Wow! That was a strong blow you better make sure he is ok" said Johnny which caused the mugger to swing at him but miss before running to his team mate, picking him up and running away. Once the muggers were out of sight Johnny dropped the stick and approached the woman.

"Looks like they are gone now. I hope they didn't hurt you" said Johnny as the woman thanked him with a nod.

"I am fine but what are you doing out this late?" Asked the woman.

"I just got into town and have no where to stay" said Johnny.

"You can stay at my house for the night as a thank you for saving me" said the woman.

"That will be great! Thank you!" Said Johnny as the woman lead him to her house.

 

[Dylan 301]

Liza and Espio the Chameleon, Casino Night Zone, 0645 MST
"What are we doing here again?" asked a visible Espio, seeimgingly to the air as he walked through the casino night zone

"Did you not listen to the briefing again?" another voice from the invisible Liza questioned. "I'm here to protect you. Not remind you of your missions. And shouldn't you be invisible?"

"This place is big enough and with enough people for us to be visible. It's not like anyone will notice us. We're just two more faces in a large number" Espio replied confidently

"Your attitude is going to get you in trouble one day while I'm not here. You need to learn your place" Liza responded

"My place isn't sitting around spying on people but doing nothing to help" Espio retorted. "I'm meant for better things"

"Maybe in the future" Liza replied calmly then going silent for a moment as a small group of other mobians passed them by. "But you haven't finished your training. And until you have you can't be given better missions"

"Don't you want to do something more beneficial?" Espio asked

"What we're doing is beneficial" Liza responded. "You gather information that can be used to plan other missions that help us or others. And I keep you safe"

"Not that I need it" Espio thought to himself. "Mother still treats me like a child"

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Marine the Raccoon, Off the coast of Downunda, 0537 MST
Marine woke up on her ship which she had slept on. Despite that, she didn't have any problems sleeping. She felt comfortable being at sea. But of course she couldn't spend all her time there. She had a ship but no crew to lead. She couldn't be the great captain Marine without a crew by her side to join her in her future adventures. And for that she needed to head to land to recruit.

Quickly she jumped up and headed to the main desk to weigh the anchor and set sail for land. Perhaps today will be her lucky day

[ChaosKaiser 101]

-Amy Rose, Vanilla the Rabbit and Cream the Rabbit, Vanilla's house, Southeastern coast of Acorn, 07:46 hours MST

The momentum of the crashing waves was stronger than usual. Over the cliffs that stood before the raging sea, a house could be seen. A beautiful house with a spacious courtyard. Bushes and small trees guarded the humble but well-decorated build. Inside, a mature rabbit looked though the window, assimilating what she has just heard. 
But the crashing waves did not calm her. Instead, they made her more and more nervous.

"I-it will be better for Cream not to go to school today..." Vanilla said, clearly worried after Amy's prediction, while the pink hedgehog put away her tarot deck and cleaned the table.

"Maybe the cards were wrong... I... I hope they were... Perhaps "the darkness" refered to rain clouds, or a electrical blackout, a-and "the danger ahead" is no more than... I don't know... something not really concerning?" Amy responded, trying not to worry Vanilla, who was almost shivering.

"Even knowing you have total control and know what you're doing, I still don't like these rituals of yours, Amy. And this time, it sounds more than concerning... I-it was terrifying! What if something happens to Cream?" Vanilla asked, turning her head to Amy. The young hedgehog could not stand that saddening stare. "Those noises and the earth trembling... do you think they had something to do with your prediction?" 

"It could be..." Amy replied, unsure about her words. She felt ironic that, being able to foretell the future, she now had no clue what was about to happen. Her cards today have told her that the world would fall into shadows, and dangers were ahead... but how many things could these statements mean? What dangers could they face? 

Vanilla sighed, and aproached Amy. "For now, Cream shouldn't know that--"

"GOOD MORNING!!" Cream exclaimed, abruptly interrumpting Vanilla. The cute young rabbit jumped into her mother's arms, ignoring the conversation she and Amy have just had.

______________________________

-Tekno the Canary, Tekno's Lab, Casino Night Zone, 01:06 hours MST

Among test tubes, bizarre plants of different colours and shapes, complex machinery and boxes with hardly pronounceable words, a green canary wearing a medical coat over her clothes struggled for maintaining the most rewarding virtue a scientist should always have: patience. 
All the frogs that should be on the table were now jumping like crazy after the earthquake, and constantly making "ribbit" sounds that echoed the room. She couldn't grab any of the frogs because of them jumping over her head like nothing.
This situation drove Tekno mad.

"Not again, not again, NOT AGAIN! COME ON! Stay still for once! It was just a rumble, nothing more... stupid frogs..."

Tekno's frustration levels were beyond the charts. She needed to find the way to perfect her serum, but the most advanced test subject escaped long ago, without she even knowing. How could a frog escape that easily from an underground lab? The mere fact that she was outsmarted by an irrational creature infuriated her... And now she was forced to use the other three frogs she could gather.

Tekno sighed, and took a seat, while the frogs kept jumping ridiculous distances that a normal specimen could not. "Why am I even trying to reason with you? You won't understand a single thing I'm saying, and the Megatal serum has to be messing with your underdeveloped brains..." the canary said. Then she took a voice recorder, and proceeded to register the lastest experiment: 

"Project Kermitfuse, Entry 32X: The addition of Never Lake's herbs has been unsuccessful to stop the mental breakdown, but it... helps to... jump higher? This... this is a... err..."

Suddenly, Tekno left the recorder, and got up. Her attention went into one of the frogs, that stopped jumping. Surprised, she took it into her hands, and saw the amphibious severely weakened. 

"Oh, no... no..." Tekno whispered. "I'm running out of time..."

______________________________

-Sonic the Hedgehog, South Island in Acorn Archipelago, 00:12 hours MST

Step by step. Red strides that lasted less than the naked eye could see. A blue blur crossed the green hills of the island like a lightning crosses the sky when a storm rises. The grass and flowers moved when he got past them, making the ilussion that they were greeting him... in less than a second. The tiny animals that populated the hills noticed the boom the speedster involunarily caused when he accelerated, and they felt the wind moving like never before.

The red shoes of the fast creature abruptly stopped before making him fall into the ocean. He looked to the sky, and saw the bizarre meteors falling into the surface of the planet. Like a child, the hedgehog felt the urgency to see those artifacts with his own eyes... and make sure no one was hurt wherever they landed on.

And so, the blue hedgehog resumed his run, this time, towards the meteor shower, provoking yet another sonic boom.

"Okay, so this is happening..."

 

Edited 20 February by ChaosKaiser

[Skye Prower 343]

Mobius Orbit

A small streak of flame streaked across the atmosphere as a small craft broke through and into the dark of space.  Now free of the atmosphere, it altered its course, progressing almost lazily as it was dwarfed by its destination.  Compared to the Wing Fortress, the transport looked like a toy.

Through the observation window, Doctor Robotnik watched the transport leisurely drift into the landing bay.  He turned away, his gaze resting on the massive screen projecting a map of the planet of Mobius.  Small pinpricks of light were dotted all over it, paler circles radiating out from them, in total covering a large portion of the map, at least on land.

“Scanning network established.  Energy readings will arrive momentarily, Doctor Robotnik,” spoke a synthesized female voice.  The Doctor almost gave a surprised start.  He still wasn’t used to the voice.

“Next time I build a robot, remind me to double check I’ve put the correct Vocal Chip in,” Robotnik commented as he turned to face the bulky, green painted robot.

“Acknowledged Doctor,” the robot replied.  “And the transport containing the first cargo from the surface has arrived.”

“I saw it arrive Zero,” muttered Robotnik.  “Inform me when the cargo is unloaded.”  He turned back towards the map, his brow furrowing as he spotted an anomaly.  “What is that Prison Pod doing in the middle of Casino Night Zone?” he barked.

“Sensors reported thruster damage as it entered the atmosphere.  But over 99.3% of the Pods hot their target zones,” Zero replied.

“That was a rhetorical question Zero,” retorted Robtonik, shooting Zero a glare.  “At least its systems automatically disabled its activation.  Last thing we need is a whole city warned of it purpose.”  He stroked his moustache thoughtfully.  “By the time Casino Night Zone has negotiated with the authorities in Acorn about their course of action, it will be too late for them.”

As he spoke, the screen flashed, the previously pale circles lighting up.  Before almost all became dim again.

“Seventy percent of the landmass covered, and almost no Chaos readings,” stated Robotnik, half angered, half curious.  “They can’t all be located in the oceans, and their very nature makes the cities unlikely.  Are they all located in remote locations?  Or is something shielding their power?”  Adjusting the controls, he zoomed the map in to the one circle that remained bright.  “Ahh, the fabled Floating Island.  That would explain much.”

“Doctor, the cargo has been unloaded,” interrupted Zero.  Robotnik turned his gaze towards a smaller monitor, smiling as he saw the trapped, helpless animals that had been released from the returned Prison Pods.  “Things are progressing….” The map began flashing again.  “..fast!” Robotnik finished in surprise.  “The Pods in Sector Two Five Zero Gold are full already?”

“Small settlements and curious locals,” commented Zero dryly.  “Large enough for the numbers required, too small to offer any resistance.”

Robotnik rubbed his hands together in glee.  “This is working even better than I anticipated.  Contact Flying Battery Two and tell them to land to pick up our new recruits.”  He turned and strode towards the lift door.  “As for the cargo, send them up to the main workshop.  It’s time to awaken your brothers, Zero.”  He looked back towards the map.  “Finding the Chaos Emerald on Angel Island would be a good test for one of them.”

----------

Tails, Deerwood Forest

A shadow fell over the map.  Tails looked up in surprise, then laughed as he saw a Flicky land on the edge and look curiously at the Fox.

“You blocked my light,” smiled Tails.  Standing, he folded the map and headed further into the forest.  The little Flicky cheeped, flying alongside.  “I should be close,” Tails said, half to the Flicky, half to himself.

Ahead, the forest opened up into a large clearing, a small creek bubbling through it.  And in the centre…

Tails hadn’t been sure what he’d been expecting.  A crater probably, maybe a large from.  But not a gleaming silver metal pod, with a yellow disk attached to the top like a comically oversized button.  A feeling of nervousness washed over Tails, and he ducked down at the edge of the treeline.    

“What is that?” he murmured to himself, slinging his rucksack off and starting to dig through it looking for his binoculars.  The Flicky gave a chirp and flew off, towards the direction of the pod.  Tails ears twitched as there was a sudden strange metallic whine, followed by a loud clang.  He glanced up quickly, but saw nothing, except the Flicky seemed to have vanished.  But as he listened, the sounds of mechanical workings reached his ears, clearly coming from the pod.

With a hiss, the side of the pod slid open, and a large, metallic insect flew out of it, starting to circle slowly.  Tails just stared.  It was like something out of those science fiction movies on the TV.  Except this wasn’t something made of painted cardboard.  This looked like a true, real life robot.  But certainly not a friendly robot.  Something about it made Tails’ fur stand on end.

It circled again, and Tails ducked down, worried the robot might spot him.  But then it twisted around and started heading deeper into the forest.  Tails grabbed his rucksack and hurried after it, despite his fear, his curiosity got the better of him.

It didn’t take long for Tails to lose sight of it under the thick canopy, but Tails hurried on, still following the same direction.  The trees started to thin as the terrain became rockier, and harder to traverse.  A little short of breath, Tails began to hear a distant rhythmic rumbling sound.  It wasn’t just the noise, as they trees gave way entirely and Tails could see a massive canyon ahead, the sound started to feel almost like a physical force, making his head throb.  But he’d come this far, and Tails knew he just had to find out where that robot had gone, and what was causing the strange throbbing noise.

He peered over the cliff.  And his mouth dropped open.

Tails had seen pictures of flying craft.  Many pictures.  The very idea of flying was fascinating to him.  From the biplanes to the strange flying craft seen being used by the Battle Bird Armada.  But this… this was something completely different.  In sheer size is dwarfed any building that Tails had seen.  It was the size he’d imagined skyscrapers to be, only on its side.  Countless large propellers lined part of its surface, as well as large vents that seemed to suck the air in and eject it out the other side.  Tails guessed that both of these must be how the hovering building stayed in the air.

Further movement caught his eye.  A door on the side of the craft slid open and a platform extended towards the cliffside.  Tails realised there was a path down to where the platform was, as he saw an army of robots march on-board.  Not just flying insects like he’d seen before, but others.  Some looked like oversized beetles with a wheel underneath, others like crude, bulky metal Mobians.

Enraptured, Tails stared at the silver army marching on-board, until the last one was through the door.  The hatch slid shut, and the sounds from the engines of the craft grew louder.  Slowly, it began to gain altitude. 

Tails could only gape at first, watching this massive machine rise next to him.  He had to know more.  Where did it come from, how did it work?  Springing to his feet, Tails sprinted towards the craft and leapt towards it.

----------

Sleet and Dingo, Battle Bird Armada Airship

There was a bustle of activity in the airship’s hanger as the strange red craft touched down.  Its main body was rather bulbous, with two stubby wings on either side, and a mobile weapons mount on the rear that more closely resembled a tail than anything else. 

The rear ramp slid open, impacting on the hanger floor with a solid thud.  Sleet, with his typical sly grin, strode down the ramp towards the waiting Battle Bird Armada soldiers.  Dingo followed behind, carrying their prisoners. 

“Your Rogues,” said Sleet confidently, as Dingo unceremoniously dumped them in a small wheeled vehicle waiting for them.  “Two alive, one corpse.  And one hanger on.  Keep an eye on him, he doesn’t seem to understand the word ‘prisoner’,” Sleet warned.

“We’ll take care of them,” replied the squad leader confidently.  “The Battle Lord wishes to speak with you.”

“We know the way by now,” Sleet replied.  “Come Dingo.  Time for us to get our payment.”  He glanced back at the red craft, and his smile turned somewhat thoughtful.

The interior of the airship was something of a maze, and given most of those in the Armada had a smaller stature than most Mobians, rather cramped.  Yet Sleet had no trouble finding his way through.  Dingo on the other hand, let out repeated ‘Ows’ as his head kept banging on low doorframes, overhanging pipes, and the occasional light fitting.

Eventually they made their way to the top of the craft to the Battle Lord’s chambers.  Unlike the rank and file, the Battle Lord stood almost as tall as Dingo. 

“Ahhhh!  My favourite mercenaries!  I see you’ve had a good hunt,” smiled the Battle Lord, bowing slightly.

“Most satisfying, Lord Kukku,” Sleet replied, returning the bow.

“Yeah!  We got them no problem!” added Dingo, just giving a friendly wave.

The two mercenaries were ushered in, and for a while polite small talk was made, before the subject returned back to businesses.  Well, almost.

“It might be early, but I never discuss business without some fine wine.  It just wouldn’t be civilised,” smiled the Battle Lord as he pour a glass for the three of them.  Sleet took his with an appreciative nod, though just held it in his hand while Dingo swallowed his glass in one gulp.

“I have a proposition Battle Lord,” began Sleet slowly, slowly swirling the wine around in his glass.  “We may forgo payment for this bounty.”

“We will?” asked Dingo surprised.  Sleet made a quick ‘hush’ motion.

“Generous, but what is it you actually wish,” replied the Battle Lord, staring hard at Sleet through his glasses.

“The craft we had for this job, on a more permanent basis,” replied Sleet.

“The Manticore!?  IMPOSSIBLE!” bellowed the Battle Lord, slamming his fist on the table.  “That is an ancient relic of the Armada.  To hand it over as mere payment..”

“Did I mention all future Rogue hunting jobs would also be included in this payment,” interrupted Sleet, staying completely calm.  The Battle Lord paused.  “There are other advantages,” Sleet continued.  “Between contacting us and delivering the Manticore to us for your hunt, a day, maybe two could be lost.  Imagine how fast we could track down a Rogue when they had far less time to cover their tracks.  And imagine how much that would discourage further Rogues.”

“You make a compelling argument,” said the Battle Lord as he regained his composure.  “I will need some time to consider your offer, but in the meantime…” The rest of his words died as the sunlight through the window was suddenly blotted out.  All three looked out the window, to see a massive flying craft, easily twice the size of the airship, rising out of the clouds next to them.

“Well, that’s certainly interesting,” commented Sleet dryly, taking a sip of his wine.

----------

Wave, Battle Bird Armada Airship

Wave looked at the parts as the landed on the desk and sighed.  Only half of what she needed.  If she was lucky.  And that was a big if.  Nevertheless, she forced herself to smile.  “Thanks Storm, I’m sure I’ll find some use for them.”  Was she actually worried about wanting Storm to be happy, or was it just to keep in with the only person she could talk freely with on this whole damn airship?  Wave wasn’t entirely sure.  As she studied the parts, she began to calm.  Even if they didn’t work for her board, it looked like what she had told Storm was actually true.  There would be some use for most of them after all.

Before the plan that had started forming in her mind began to take shape, a shadow fell over the room.  Wave glanced idly out the window, the turned to stare at the massive flying craft emerging from the cloud layer.  Even with a quick glance she could see the armour, engines and weapons across it, far more than the Armada airship could bring to bear.

“Storm…. We might need to run…” Wave almost whispered as the drill klaxon sounded.

----------

Skye, Feral Forest

“Looks like you might be onto something Skye,” said Brian as he turned the jeep.  “You might actually be useful after all,” he teased, trying to be good natured, but Skye just glared.

“Plenty of trees down, doesn’t look like there’s any fires though,” interrupted the Otter, hoping to defuse the situation.

“Some of the ones standing look like they’ll come down at any moment,” added Skye, grateful to have something else to focus on.  “If one fell that must have been what I saw move,” she commented, though her voice was doubtful.  The jeep slowed as its path was blocked by a number of trees.

“Looks like we’re on foot from here,” said Brian as he jumped out of the jeep, towards the fallen tree.  “Hey!  Fisher!  Skye!  Take a look at this!” he called over.  Both of the others hurried from the jeep to where Brian was standing, looking out over the silver pod ahead.

“What is it?” wondered Fisher.

“Probably something dropped by those crazy flying birds,” said Brain dismissively.  “Maybe an empty fuel tank or something.”

“That… It’s not from the Armada,” said Skye, with both a certainty and fear that she didn’t know the origin of.  “We should go.”

“Oh stop complaining, we need to take a closer look,” said Brian, vaulting over the trees and walking purposely towards the pod.

“He’s being a jerk, but he’s right, we need to take a closer look,” Fisher said to Skye.  “But if you’d rather wait by the jeep…” He offered.

“No… No!” said Skye, trying to sound firm.  “I’m not scared.  It’s just a… er… whatever it is…” she finished, her voice trailing off.

“Alright, if you’re sure,” replied Fisher, climbing over the trees and heading after Brian as Skye followed suite. 

“Looks like it’s all safe,” called over Brian.  The next second, the pod opened up, and a long, thin metal arm sprung out father than a striking snake, grasping Brian.  He barely had the chance to realise what was happening before the arm drew him into the pod with a scream, slamming shut behind him.

Crying out, both Fisher and Skye headed towards the pod, hoping to find some way to free their friend.  But the ground at their feet suddenly erupted, throwing them both to the ground.  Looking up, they saw three metal, insect like shapes hovering above them, their thoraxes twisted round to face them.  The tips of what would have been these insects’ stringers suddenly flashed with a bright light, bolts of energy streaming towards the Wold and Otter, keeping then sprawling on the ground. 

Then the pod slid open, steam billowing from it.

“Brian!  You’re alright!” called Fisher hopefully as he spotted the outline of his friend through the clouds.  But then the figure stepped forward, and it was clear from the gleaming metal body that it wasn’t Brian.  At least, not anymore.  The robotic figure still had Brian’s proportions, and even metal protrusions similar to how his hair had been.  But there was no sign of recognition in the black and red glowing eyes.

“All Mobians must be processed,” spoke the metal Brian, in a distorted version of Brian’s own voice.  He charged forward, grabbing Fisher by the throat.  “You will serve Doctor Robotnik.”

Staggering to her feet, Skye started to draw out her staff, but her legs wouldn’t let her close the gap between her and Fisher.  Fisher turned his head, looking pleadingly at the wolf.  “Skye…. RUN!” he gasped.

Skye turned and did just that.

[Chromatic Terras 20]

Storm, Battle Bird Armada Airship

Storm watches Wave work, always fascinated by her capabilities with tech. However, he noticed her eyes grow wide as she looked out the window. Storm turned over as well to see the massive ship floating just outside.

"Uh, right. I'll follow you." Storm replies as he quickly grabs a large sack and starts sliding everything off the table into it.

Gamma, Angel Island

It had been a couple hours now that Gamma was traversing through the forests of the floating Island. It periodically checked his communication devices to see if any of its mission updates went through, however they all continued to give error messages. It stops briefly and looks back to the capture pod it decided to carry with it. It had seemed to cool down, but still had not shown any signs of activating either.

"Hourly log 6- Examination: The heat and sudden impact due to the high altitude orbit of unknown floating island has caused temporary disruption with objective programming....past areas has shown signs of old civilizations, however no residents remained. Saving data for upload upon return to main station. Robotimization pods have been properly distributed in surrounding area in preparation for activation and collection. Proceeding to prioritize Chaos energy readings now."

Gamma lets the pod go, transforms into roller mode, and speeds off through the jungle area. As it departs, the pod begins to slowly beep.

Vector, Casino Night Zone

Vector lifts his head up from his table, a trail of drool running down his desk. It didn't take long for him to make it back to his office from the hospital, however he was still feeling the fatigue from running around all night that he had fallen asleep mid-investigation. He gets up and walks over to his automated coffee machine and sets up a tall glass for himself. After it finishes, he then walks over to the window and looks out into the city streets. Multiple tvs were playing, all different news channels about the strange object that had crashed into the city. He moves from the window to look at a wall with a map of the city on it. Multiple circles and lines were drawn all over, with batwings and hearts in each one. He then grabs a marker and draws another, then connecting it to one across town. He then backs up to get a better look at it all as he continues to sip his coffee.

"Looks like I'm finally closing in on her trail. No doubt about it." he says to himself with a tired smile.

Knuckles, Angel Island

Knuckles continued to sit upon the shrine staircase as he gazed out into the forest. The commotion from the night prior had seemed to be of no concern, allowing him to sleep till dawn, however he couldn't shake the feeling of something happening. His attention was then diverted from the low sound of rotors and wind breaking in the distance. He looked out beyond the cliff-side of the island in search of where the sound was coming from before hearing another from the direction of the forest. He quickly swivels his head back to see a large red robot crouching before the stairs of the shrine. He quickly gets up from the stairs and starts walking down. The robot lets out some steam as it changes back to its standing form.

"Who are you, and what business do you have here?" Knuckles asks as he makes his way down the stairs. The robot simply stares at him, before letting out some steam and transforming back to a full stance. Knuckles makes his way to the bottom of the stairs as the two simply stare at each other the entire time.

"WHO ARE YOU, and what business do you have here?" Knuckles asks again more sternly. The robot continues to stare as it brings its wrist to it's face.

"Emergency Log- Contact: An unidentifiable life form is standing in the way of the chaos readings. Proceeding to engage." Gamma saves in its reports as it continues to look at Knuckles, scanning him.

[Thire 84]

Thire and Larry, Lynx household, Mercia 

“Are you sure the trip is a good idea Josh?” asked a concerned Larry. “Oh, don’t worry about it Larry. Fishing at the Emerald Sea is always a fun time and it’s the one weekend we get to ourselves.” replied Josh.

“And if it’s the meteorite you’re concerned with, Uncle Chuck said it should be fine as long as we keep clear of it.” “Well... alright. I guess it’ll give me some space from the other kids.” hesitated Larry. “Wait, have they been teasing you again!?” Shouted Josh. “Oh when I find Hector...” 

“Josh wait! It’s not that they’ve been teasing me. It’s more of... uh... just, don’t confront him please. I’ve been trying to work things out between us.” Begged Larry. Josh takes a pause. “Very well then. That’s why you come home late? And sometimes with a few bruises? You can’t hide it from me.” “I know Josh. Can we maybe talk it over on the trip?” Replied Larry.

“Let’s stop by Uncle Chuck’s place before we head out.”

—————

Elias, Casino Night Zone 

Evening in the Casino Night Zone, Elias was off to talk with his client before leaving when he overhears talking in an alley. Cautiously, he approaches unseen. 

“...he went on a date as Phat Tony, blew his cover!” Laughed a couple of guys working for Elias’ client. “I really respected him, but he didn’t pay. At least he showed more promise then the new guy. Hopefully soon he actually finds it so we can be rid of him.” 

“For what it’s worth, that guy’s got some courage walking up and accepting the job after his past with the boss man  Too bad it’s over some dumb space rock. I actually liked some of his work in the past.” Said the smaller guy. “Yeah, boss man said to wait for him to leave town then follow him to the site. Then we pay him in full.” 

Elias’ fur stands on end. “I knew it was too good to be true. And I actually believed Valentino.” Deduced Elias. “Well not unless I out smart you dummies. Let’s see if you can track a tracker.” He starts making his way out of town under the cover of night. Making sure to keep a low profile. 

—————

Shard, Unknown Location 

Boot sequence: activate 

These words appear on it’s HUD (heads up display). Following it’s activation came it’s initial scan of the area. 

Scanner: damaged

Visual sensor: damaged

Location: unknown 

Situation: not good 

All of it’s modules were damaged, but how? And why was it in a crater? Nothing in Shard’s database recalls anything before now, meaning it’s memory banks were most likely corrupted. Attempting to process the situation, it activates it’s homing beacon in hopes of pinging someone.

Power gem: mostly intact

Initiate self repair

Low power mode: activate

 All that could be done now, was wait.

—————

Chuck’s home, Mercia 

 “Off on your trip, I see.” Noticed Chuck. “Figured we’d stop and say bye, Uncle Chuck.” Replied Josh. “All I ask is you don’t wander TO danger this time.” 

“Don’t worry Uncle Chuck, I’m sure Josh will be more careful this time and not fall and break his arm again!” Said Larry. “...Really Larry?” Grumbled Josh. “As long as you boys have fun out there. Don’t forget to bring some food with you in case you can’t catch anything!” Laughed Chuck. “You too Uncle Chuck? You forget I’m a great fisherman!” Argued Josh. 

Chuck’s radio starts making systematic noise. “Hey, what’s that?” Asked Larry. “Probably just my radio, I’ve been working on that blasted thing from doing that at night. I’m sure you can imagine how annoying it is to be woken up late at night by that. Don’t worry about it and have fun, boys.” Replied Chuck. They then said their goodbyes and started off. 

“That sounds like Morse code, but I didn’t think anyone around here used that.” Thought Chuck. “I’m gonna have to check that out.” 

—————

[Seviper the Fang Snake 345]

Antoine D'Coolette, Mercia 

 

"When I get to the market I better make sure to get butter..not margarine. Only a fool would use margarine." Said Antoine as he walked his way through town. 

 

Unknown to Antoine he was being watched.

 

"A member of the D'Coolette house hold here? My lord will be most...intrigued to hear this." Said a cloaked individual as he headed for a large castle.

 

Mordred Hood, Castle Hood (Formely Snottingham Castle), Mercia

 

"Bring the prisoner." Said Mordred from his shiny throne as the two soilders followed the command.

 

Mordred got up from his throne and walked up to the prisoner. "An attempt assassination on your lord is treason.., which will result in death. Care to speak your mind?" Said Mordred to the prisoner. 

 

"You are not the king. You took the throne with deceptioand and ousted the king." Replied the prisoner as he spit on the floor.

 

"The king was a fool. I was destined to rule Mercia! It was foretold in the Mercian Chronicles. Now pleasant thoughts." Said Mordred as took his sword and striked down the prisoner.

 

"Ruling is quite hard. Get that trash off my floor." As he sat back down on his throne.

 

Charmy Bee, Casino Night Zone 

 

"Not as fancy as the good back home but it was still good." Said Charmy as he threw the container.

 

Charmy noticed a newspaper article and picked it up. "Strange object crashed landed during the night? Huh? Mello would've been intrested in this."

 

Charmy flew off into the center of the city.

 

Bean the Duck, Battle Bird Armada Airship 

 

Bean was being dragged down the hall.

 

"We played cards together Hal! And Gordon I taught you how to handle spicy food!" Said Bean.

 

"Sorry Bean Doc's orders." Said one of the soilders as they put Bean in a cell.

 

"Can I least get a shiny coin to make a phone call!? Why did I say shiny..." Said Bean as he sat in his cell.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[ChaosKaiser 101]

-Cream the Rabbit and Amy Rose, Vanilla's house, Southeastern coast of Acorn

"Well done, Cheese! Now throw the ball back to me!" Cream asked. Inmediately, the blue chao took the beach ball and threw it towards the rabbit. Even being in the house's backyard, Cream seemed unaware of the raging waves and the dark clouds that kept the sky hidden. 

"Chao-chao-cha-chaoooo~" the chao said.

"Yes, I've noticed that too, Cheese. I'd like to know why mom let me skip classes today too..." Cream replied. "Maybe it's because of the weather?"

"Chaoooo-chao?"

"Oh, I almost forget about that! Thank you, Cheese! I know I can always trust you!!" Cream happily answered. Suddenly, she let the ball aside, got into the house and called out for Amy, while still being accompanied by Cheese the Chao.

"Miss Rose! I have something that might belong to you!" the small rabbit yelled. Amy showed up just inmediately.

"Oooookay, Cream, what is it?"

"Errrr... this..." she said, taking a card out of her pocket. The card depicted a couple of naked mobians- one female and the other male- close to each other, holding hands. Behind them, a gigantic winged ring surrounded by seven gemstones could be seen. Under all of this, the only text that was written: "The Lovers"

Amy quickly took the card from Cream's hands. "Errrr... hehehe... you shouldn't see these things..." the pink hedgehog nervously said.

"Why, miss Rose? Is there something bad about your cards? What are those shiny flying stones? Where are those people's clothes? Do they USE clothes?"

"I-- I don't know..." Amy replied, looking at the card. "I didn't use this card in today's prediction, so that means..."

The hedgehog was lost in her thoughts. After a few seconds, she realised something, and like a thunderstrike, she exclaimed: "IT MEANS MY TIME HAS COME!" Amy smiled, and put her hands on the chest. 

Cream was extremely confused, and looked at Cheese. The chao shrugged. "The time to take clothes off and wait for giant floating rings, like that card showed?" The rabbit asked, even more confused after realising what she just said.

"Wha--Nno-no-no-no-noooo... It's time..." Amy replied, taking Cream's hands, and smiling at her, "...TO MEET MY DESTINED LOVE!!

-Tekno the Canary, Tekno's Lab, Casino Night Zone

"How do I find a frog in a place like this?" Tekno wondered while closing the metallic bars that secured the secret entrance to her lab. A poorly lit street full of trashing bins and containers. Nobody would venture into such a dirty and stinking street, specially living in a such a luminous and colorful city. "Maybe I could look our for a detective... are there pet detectives around here? Sounds like a silly idea, but who knows..."
The flashing neon lights, gambling machine sounds and thunderous music welcomed Tekno once she got into the city center.

"Compulsive gamblers, rich people who doesn't know what to do with their money... anyone of them could have taken an amphibious as a free souvenir. I guess I'll have to ask anyone that looks sober." Tekno thought.

And so, she proceeded asking every single mobian she found about an hyperactive green frog with yellow eyes and orange stripes.

-Sonic the Hedgehog, South Island in Acorn Archipelago

Wherever that "meteor herd" might have landed in, the hedgehog felt the urgency be there to see. He couldn't just hold his curiosity captive as a prisoner of circunstances. Even having seen all the places and faced all the odd situations he had, witnessing this felt completely new to him.

 The closest he was to the landing area, the faster his heart pumped. 

And so, in a matter of seconds, he was there: a cyclindrical pod welcomed the blue creature. 

"So... this is all of it? Huh, it doesn't look as dangerous as I thought" the blue hedgehog said, relieved, but still curious. 

And so, he approached the pod...

 

Edited 20 April by ChaosKaiser

[Dylan 301]

Liza and Espio the Chameleon, Casino Night Zone
"Apparently people are saying something crashed in this zone last night" Espio commented to the still invisible Liza as they continued

"I can hear" Liza responded. "It could be something important. We should find out what it is for the clan"

"How do you know it's anything special?" Espio asked

"It's special enough for other people here to talk about it" Liza replied. "Especially since they'd normally be complaining about how much money they've lost instead"

"That doesn't make it interesting" Espio complained. "But I suppose we should go see it"

Liza sighed a little as both started walking to find the object

--------------------------------------------------

Marine the Raccoon, Downunda

It didn't take long for Marine to arrive at port. After weighing into port, she made way for town to start her search

[Geoffrey St John 142]

E-series101Beta,Downunda Crater

""Unit Beta has arrived at destination. Commencing investigation" said Beta as it landed within the crater.

 

Ian St John, St John home,Mercia

Once Geoffrey had left Ian began to check his job list but noticed it was empty. "Guess Chuckie has not been working on much recently. I should go visit him" thought Ian to himself before he grabbed his tools and left his house making his way to visit Charles.

 

Geoffrey St John, Ray The Flying Squirrell, Sunset Valley orphange, Mercia

 

"I am at work now. I guess I shoud go see Ray. Maybe I can get him to come outside today. Unlikely but I have to try" thought Geoffrey to himself as he waved to all the kids who waved at him while he made his way inside. He passed several doors including the one to Tails' room which was closed which was not unusual. Geoffrey finally came across a white door with the words "Do NOT Disturb" writen on it. he took a deep breath and knocked on the door.

 

It was silent for a second until a somewhat muffled voice said "Who is it?" Geoffrey answered by saying "It is Geoffrey, Ray" to which the door slightly opened which was an invitation to enter. Geoffrey entered the room quite slowly to keep Ray calm. The room was practically empty except for a bed which was raised above the floor so Ray had a place to hide under when he had one of his episodes. Ray was in his hide away sitting on his pillows wth his blanket wrapped around himself.

 

"Hello Ray do you think we can go outside today?" asked Geoffrey which the mere thought of caused Ray to start to panic. "I don't mean into the forest or a cave. I just mean out into the garden, to go see the flowers and sit in the sun. And if you felt up for it we could have a picnic too" said Geoffrey which calmed Ray slightly but he was still paniking. "But the bullies could attack or the ground could open up and swallow us! A giant rock could crush us from above! It is too scary out there. In here is safe, No one can hurt me in here" said Ray as he hid his face under his blanket.

 

"I will be there every step o the way, I can keep the bullies away. I would make sure you keep two feet on the ground so it can not swallow you and the sky is clear today so no giant rocks" said Geoffrey. Ray simply nodded his head no several times in fear. Geoffrey sighed but he didn't give up, "Ray for years you have hidden in your room. You refuse to see the outside because of the danger but if you keep living like this you will miss out on everything. You wll miss out on the smell of the flowers, the heat of the sunlight, the chance to play with friends you make, all the different kinds of food out there and you may never get to see one of those creatures from that book you read. Wat is it called again? The Wizard's apprentice?" asked Geoffrey.

 

Ray quickly replied by saying "The Worldly Adventurer. And that book lets me see all that and experience it all safely in my room. I don't need to go out there! Out into the dangers where monsters live. I am happy here!" declared Ray quite firmly dispite how he was clearly very scared. Geoffrey took another deep breath and slowly walked towards Ray.

"Ray you used to not like anyone being in your room with you. You wrote those words on your door and no matter how many times they washed it off you just wrote it again. But when I came along the first time to try to talk to you, you listened and after a few attempts you let me come in because you were not afraid of me. You trust me to be in here so why not trust me to make you just as safe out there?" asked Geoffrey.

 

"I... I... I CAN'T! It is too scary.... too scary!" paniked Ray to which Geoffrey quickly responded by hugging Ray until he calmed down. Once Ray was calm again Geoffrey let go and stepped away. Slightly saddened by his failure Geoffrey smiled and said "Okay Ray, not today but lets see how you feel tomorrow. maybe then you can have your own adventure like I know you want to have." Geoffrey then waved bye to Ray who waved back as Geoffrey shut the door and turned away. "Another failed attempt but I won't give up. I will get Ray outside eventually. I just hope I succeed before the others try to drag him outside" thought Geoffrey as he headed to the garden.

[Skye Prower 343]

Sleet, Dingo, Wave, Battle Bird Armada Airship

“ALL GUNS OPEN FIRE.  BRING THAT INTERLOPER DOWN!”  The Battle Lord’s orders echoed throughout the airship.  And moments later the echo was replaced but the sound of the gun batteries on the airship opening fire.

“Dingo, we’re leaving,” said Sleet firmly as he stood up, making his way towards the cabin door.

“But we haven’t been paid yet!” protested Dingo.

“Unless we leave, there won’t be any payment,” Sleet replied.  As if to drive his point home, the whole airship lunched as the responding salvo from the Flying Batter tore into the airship.  Dingo gave a meek ‘whoa’ as he tried to keep his feet.

“Uh, right!  I’m coming Sleet!” Dingo replied, hurrying after the wolf who’d already left through the cabin door.  As the two hurried down the corridor, the airship was pounded by another wave of fire.  Just a few feet behind them, the hull split open in a jagged wound.  The sudden impact threw Sleet off his feet, and the rush of air hurled him towards the gap.  Inches from being hurled out, Dingo’s hand clamped down on Sleet’s arm, his other grasping the now exposed corridor frame tightly.  Slowly, Dingo was able to pull them both through a hatch in the corridor, slamming it shut behind them and allowing both to regain their breath.

“Thank you Dingo,” gasped Sleet relieved.  “This is a lot worse than I though.  We have to hurry.”

A few decks down, Wave had also felt the impact of the explosion.  Glancing out the porthole, she looked up to see the damage and gasped.  “That…. That’s impossible… The armour.. It’s from the ancient times, impenetrable..” Wave’s gaze turned towards the Flying Battery, her eyes noting no more than superficial damage.

“Storm, we’re leaving…. I don’t know how… But that thing has more power than the airship.”  Without waiting for a reply, she started running towards the hanger.  Both she and Storm had their Extreme Gear, and the Hanger would be the safest place to launch from. 

She’s almost reached the hatch to the hanger when someone barged into her, knocking her over. 

“Out of my way,” growled Sleet as he pulled the hatch open, Dingo right behind.  His eyes surveyed the hanger, before resting on the red form of the Manitcore.  “Looks like we’re getting our payment after all Dingo,” he smiled.

--------------

Robotnik, Mobius Orbit

The smile on Robotnik’s face was one of twisted glee.  More and more of the planet was already in his grasp, and still none of the creatures down below had become alerted to his ever growing army.  The few who did were simply added to the ever increasing numbers.

“All Flying Batteries now report a full complement,” reported Zero, coming over to Robotnik’s side.

“Excellent Zero!  Order them to return to high altitude, and prepare to launch Wave Two.  At this rate, the planet will be ours before lunch,” instructed Robotnik.  As Zero moved towards the communication station, he regarded the screens showing Angel Island, his hand stroking his moustache thoughtfully.  “Gamma is taking a long time for an uninhabited Island.  Perhaps it’s simply too large an area for him to survey alone.  Flying Battery Two should be in the area.  Contact it and order…” 

“Doctor, Flying Battery Two reports it’s under attack,” interrupted Zero.

“WHAT?” bellowed the Doctor.  “What on that planet could even be capable of anything approaching an attack?  Display their camera feeds!  NOW!”  Almost instantly the main screen switched to show the battle between the Flying Battery and the Battle Bird’s airship.  As Robotnik watched, his anger turned to curiosity.  Aboard the airship, there was a bright light building from an underslung turret, which suddenly lanced towards the Flying Battery, destroying some of the camera feeds as it hit.

“Laser weapons?  Resilient armour?  Maybe taking this planet will be more fun than I first thought,” Robotnik commented with a grin, then the anger returned.  “Prepare the Wing Fortress for decent.  Time to show these animals what they are up against.”

--------------

Tails, clinging desperately to the Flying Battery

Tails had completely lost any track of how long he’d been holding onto the side of the massive machine.  Had it been an hour?  Two?  However long it was, Tails had to admit he was surprised his grip had held out, though by now he was getting tired.  Around him, the clouds billowed above and below, almost driving out the fear of impacting the ground hundreds of feet below.  Flying had always been a dream of the two tailed fox and now, here he was.  Albeit in a way he’d never dreamed of.

As the craft moved, the air currents had swirled around him, twisting and blowing his tails in a strange way.  He’d tried to hold them still at first, but the strain had been even more tiring than simply maintaining his grip, and so Tails had just let his namesakes go with the flow.

But as they broke through the cloud layer, causing Tails to gasp at the skyscape around, something struck the craft with a loud explosion, causing Tails to scream in shock, almost letting go.  Then another, and another in rapid succession.  Looking around wildly, he spotted a large airship, though nowhere near the scale of the vehicle he was clinging to.  Tails had heard stories of the insane bird army that patrolled the skies.  Looks like they weren’t just stories after all.  But the excitement quickly drained as he realised he was now stuck in a battle between the two.

Both vehicle were firing now, the airship clearly coming off worst, though still flying.  A number of smaller craft launched from it to attack, but those where swiftly cut down to smaller weapons fire.  Then there was a sudden blinding light, which seemed to lance out from the airship to sear into the craft mere meters away from where Tails was grasping.  Tails’ mind raced.  Was that a weapon?  How did it work?  Was there more like that?  And then another thought hit his mind.  The bar he’d been clinging onto had snapped.  His fingers, now exhausted, started to slip.  Desperately, he looked around for another handhold, anything.  But it was too late.  His grip finally gave way, and Tails found himself being flung far from the craft by the shockwave of another weapons impact.

--------------

Skye, Feral Forest

As Skye ran through the forest, blasts from the flying, metal insects nipping at her heels, images from her nightmares started to seep through into her waking mind.  Trees and bushes replaced by ruins and debris.

‘Flee, screaming, and I’ll let you live.’

Shaking her head, Skye tried to push the images away.  “They’re just dreams, not real…” Which felt somewhat pathetic when the idea of robots had also seemed so unreal just minutes before.  Another blast struck the ground next to her, throwing Skye from her feet.  Groaning, she looked up to see the jeep a short distance away.  But some of the insects where already moving to try and interpose themselves between it and her.

“This is gonna hurt,” she groaned as she raised her arm towards the Jeep in what at first looked like an almost futile gesture, only for a line to shoot out of the wrist mounted grapple launcher, and strike the jeep.  Skye quickly retracted the cable, drawing her toward the jeep too fast for the robots to react.  But also a little too fast for Skye herself, as she didn’t slow her motion in time and struck the side of the jeep painfully. 

Despite the pain, Skye still managed to scramble into the jeep and sped off as quickly as she could.  Probably more so in her desperation, the jeep bouncing and skidding as she tried to exit the forest.

“I’ve got to get back to the station.  Radio for help,” she gasped to herself.  Glancing in the mirror, she could see the flying robots were after her, still firing.  Just as she was about to reach the road, one of their blasts struck the wheel of the jeep, causing it to flip onto its side and skid across the road.

[Chromatic Terras 20]

Storm, Battle Bird Armada Airship

Storm could only nod as he followed after Wave. The bag of equipment slowed him down to ensure he didn't drop any of it. Unfortunately it also caused him to be too far from helping Wave get knocked over. As soon as he saw the two strangers shove her, he quickly dropped the bag and ran over to help her up.

"Hey! Watch where you two are going," he yells angrily, but without any fighting spirit.

 

Gamma & Knuckles, Angel Island

Knuckles completes his journey down the altar stairs and now stood face to face with Gamma, barely even half his height. Still, Knuckles did not waver and he continued to question the intruder. 

"Why are you here," he asks once more.

"Information denied," Gamma replies bluntly.

"What business do you have with the Master Emerald?"

"Information denied."

"..........What business do you have with me?"

"Information...unknown," Gamma answers slowly. Again the two continue to stare at one another before Knuckles lets out a deep sigh and turns around.

"Well, and no one is allowed near the Mater Emerald without my permission, so whenever you're willing to talk just call me back...or leave, I don't care which."

"Unacceptable parameters," Gamma replies once more. Knuckles turns back to him with a slight twitch in his eye.

"Excuse me?" he asks, trying to hold back his frustration.

"Data suggested floating area known as Angel Island was only inhabited by small unintelligent creatures. You show signs of intellect, however your body composition is not completely organic and shows a connection to the Master Emerald above. Inquiry: What is your purpose?"

Knuckles can only stare in confusion by Gammas request, unsure of anything he just asked of him. Finally he scratches his head and steps back down from the stairs.

"How about I'll tell you who I am if you tell me why you're here," he proposes. Gamma looks up to the Master Emerald and then back to Knuckles.

"I am under direct orders to retrieve the Master Emerald," he responds.

"By who?"

"Information withheld. The deal was to state my purpose for answers about your being."

Knuckles clenches his fists tightly as he gets even more frustrated with Gammas conversation, but again calms himself for a deal was a deal. "My name is Knuckles. I am the protector of the Master Emerald, so if you have any plans on taking it then I'm afraid you're going to have to get past me first."

"Acceptable parameters met" Gamma replies as he begins to walk forward, however Knuckles gets in his way to push him back.

"T-this isn't w-what I meant," Knuckles struggles before finally building up enough strength to repel Gamma. "By getting past me! I'm not going to let you take the Master Emerald." 

Gamma pauses for a moment before speaking into his communicator. 

"Contact Log Update: Life-form known as Knuckles denies capability of completing mission objectives. Proceeding into combat mode." he inputs before raising his arms up.

"Bring it on, Metalhead." Knuckles responds back, raising his fists.

 

Vector, Casino Night Zone

Vector continued to admire his work, however was soon distracted by the commotion outside. With more and more people learning about the strange meteor that struck into the area last night, the whole city was in a mixed frenzy. He lets out a small annoyed growl and he closes his blinds, darkening the room.

"The Chief doesn't want me involved anymore with it anyway. Might as well catch a quick nap before giving him my information on Rouge." he says to himself as he walks back over to his desk and puts his head down. Within seconds, he was already deep asleep once more.

[Seviper the Fang Snake 345]

Antoine, Mercia

Antoine was heading towards the market til he was stopped by a cloaked figure and two soldiers.

 

"Hello D'Coolette. Our Lord will be surprised and honored to met your acquaintance. Don't resist." Said the cloaked individual as the soldiers drew their weapons.

 

Antoine tried to run away but the soldiers pursued him.

 

Bean, Bark, Battle Bird Armada Airship

 

A couple of Battle Bird Soldiers escorted the large polar bear to the holding cells. However the impact caused them to become unbalanced and tripped.

 

The Polar Bear saw this as an opportunity to break free and escape. He broke free from his arm restraints and tossed one of the birds at a wall and head down further down till he saw an imprisoned green duck.

 

"Hey big guy! Can ya let me out? By the sounds of it this place ain't gonna be in the best shape for long. I can help us get off this thing." Said Bean to the polar bear.

 

The polar bear was hesitate at first but felt he could trust the duck. He then began to punch the cell repeatedly before ripping it off.

 

"Awesome! You don't talk much huh? I'm gonna call you Bark! It's ironic! We gotta get to the hanger! It's our only hope." Said Bean as Bark grabbed him an ran towards the hanger.

 

 

 

[Thire 84]

(I think I’m gonna put my character speech in bold as it makes it easier to identify.)

————————

Josh and Larry Lynx, Near the coast of the Emerald Sea 

“...And then he came running right towards me, I honestly thought he was gonna trip and fall the way he ran!” 

Laughed Larry. They had been talking almost the whole way to their usual fishing spot on the Emerald Sea, they both usually didn’t get to see each other until the end of the day so it was a good way for them to catch up on the missed time. With the path to there thick with lush greens and tall trees, most sound you could hear was from all the fauna. 

“Now about Hector, you said that you guys have been talking lately? Asked Josh. “Yes.” Replied Larry. “I know he and I kinda got off at the wrong foot the first day at lunch, but really he and I just misunderstood each other. He told me that...” Larry cut off his sentence. They both slow down to a halt as they see lots of fell trees and damage to the flora. 

Josh takes a moment, “Woah, no way this was damage from a storm.” Trees had fallen in the same direction, scars were on the ground, even the wildlife was nowhere to be found. Usually there’d be a Flicky or two always tweeting. 

“D-do you think this was one of the meteors?” Stuttered Larry. “I may never have been to a crash site of one before, but I doubt this is what it’d look like. See over there? That was chopped down, too clean of a cut to be from a crashing rock.” Examined Josh. “Hey! That looks like a Flicky egg! We can’t just leave it here.” Exclaimed Larry. “I wonder if it’s parents are near here.” 

Dropping his fishing gear, Larry approached the egg when a loud thud not too far from them was heard. Spooking them, sounds of rapid buzzing and small motors were approaching. “No time to find out, save it and let’s get out of here!” Yelled Josh, dropping his own gear. Larry picks up the blue egg and then they start running the way they came.

They come to a branching path, both ways covered up by bushes. “Larry, in through this way. I’m gonna try to send them the other way.” Planned Josh. 

As Larry carefully went through the bush, Josh went to the other one and tore some branches off it, making it seem like they went that way. “I hope this works.” 

Hiding in the bush, they try their hardest to remain silent. They see the mysterious metal creatures stop at the crossroads for a moment. Noticing the damage to the other bush, most of them go in that direction. A couple of the wheeled creatures remained between the bushes, almost as if they were waiting for new instructions. A tall metallic figure then walks next to the creatures. It looks at the bush, then looks at the other. It makes a motion to go towards the bush Josh and Larry were in. Keeping themselves as concealed as possible, they hide as the wheels jump over the bush, going down the path. The figure then walks back the way it came.

”W-what do we do now?” Whispered a worried Larry. “Wait a little bit longer, then I guess we can try taking the long way home. I think it’d be safer that way.” Replied Josh. Extremely concerned for Larry’s safety, Josh starts planning a way back. 

————————

Elias, outside the Casino Night Zone. 

Sneaking out of town was no problem, especially for someone used to doing so. Starting on his way over to the crash site, he recalls his visit to Doug’s place before he left. 

(Flashback!)

“Doug, I suggest you keep your head down for a week or two, if Valentino finds out I was here, he’ll be out for you too.” 

“Relax bud, I has a safe place me and the family can chill for a while. If ya gots the time, why not join us for a good ‘ol dinner. Da kids love “Uncle Elias” ya know.” 

“I’m sorry, I have to leave as soon as possible. Val’s got his guys on me and I can’t risk your endangerment any longer.” 

“Aight, aight. Do ya even know where to look for da goods?” 

(Flashback over ) 

“Should be right past Breakneck Ridge.” 

Long hikes were no issue for him either, he’d gotten used to it from his ‘glory days’. When he got to the top of the ridge, he looks down at the site only to find not just a crater, but a metal pod, and lots of robots! 

Quickly taking cover he thinks to himself: ”What in the world?! Robots?” He glances back at one of them. “But... they don’t look alien? They actually look like... ladybugs and wasps?” Thinking he was starting to loose his mind, he was about to get a closer look when a Motobug charged right at him. 

Caught off guard, he jumps to the side, narrowly avoiding the hit. The Motobug, now with reinforcements, charges again. This time Elias was ready as he unsheathes his katars and slices at the robots wheels. Taking out two this way, he then gets rammed over by one from the back. As he gets up, he stabs right through it. As it explodes, a little Flicky flies out of it. 

“What the-?” Caught off guard again but this time by the Flicky, he gets rammed again by another Motobug. 

As he attempts to get up, a figure approaches him. Metal and without emotion, it grasps Elias’ shirt. With a deep robotic voice it proclaims:

“All Mobians must be processed. You will serve Doctor Robotnik.” 

Struggling to get free, he realizes this thing was actually one of Val’s henchmen talking from yesterday. Horrified, he tries even harder to break free. As the now robotic henchman starts bringing him to the pod, he gets his knife out and stabs it right in the neck. Dropping him, it falls to the ground, twitching as it’s cables were severed. He starts running back to CNZ, as he glances back at the pod, the other robots start chasing him. 

————————

Chuck’s home, Mercia 

Chuck was with his radio listening to the Morse Code message he heard before Josh and Larry left. He grabbed a paper and pen and jotted down what he heard. 

-- . . - .. -. --. / .. -. / -.. --- .-- -. ..- -. -.. .- / - --- / .. -.. . -. - .. ..-. -.-- / ... - .-. .- -. --. . / .--. .... . -. --- -- . -. .- / .- .-. --- ..- -. -.. / - .... . / .-- --- .-. .-.. -.. .-.-.- / .- -. -.-- --- -. . / .-- .. .-.. .-.. .. -. --. / - --- / -- .- -.- . / .- / -.-. .... .- -. --. . / .--. .-.. . .- ... . / -.-. --- -- . .-.-.-

The message then repeats itself on a loop. Reading back what he wrote, he thinks for a moment. 

“If someone knows what all this could be, maybe it’s time I got back in action...” 

Contemplating what he should do, he starts packing a suitcase. 

“I know I’ve got projects to finish, but if I could be helping access the situation... Heh, if Ian found me like this he’d probably give me a hard time for ‘not making business’ for him. He’d probably say “Hey old coot, break anything other than old ladies hearts lately?”.” 

He knew though that leaving out of the blue probably wouldn’t sit well with the people he knew in town, but the thought of him sitting around while he could be helping someone ate at him. He was indecisive, when knocking was heard at his door. Thinking it was probably a delivery of more parts, he shouted: 

“You can leave the parts on the doorstep, I’ll get to it in a moment!” 

Unknowingly to Chuck, it wasn’t a delivery...

————————

Josh and Larry, near Mercia 

Treading carefully back home after their run in with the strange metal creatures, they both were tired from running. Thinking they might be safe, they stopped to catch their breath. 

“That was awful. I hope they don’t come to town.” Larry said to Josh. “That was not an experience I want to go through again. Although it felt like we were in a movie.” Replied Josh. “We need to tell Uncle Chuck, or maybe Mr. St. John, or- or-“ stopping Larry mid sentence, Josh tries calming him down. “Relax, it’s over now. We’ll get home and we’ll let the adults take care of it. I’ll make sure to protect you.” 

Saying that helped calm Josh down too, although he suspected that if this “meteor” had things like that around it, what might be happening around the world? Letting out one last sigh, he and Larry got up and started on their way.

Suddenly, there was one of the wheeled bugs in front of them, with claws on its flanks and an angry expression on the front. It charged at them with full force. Josh then pushed Larry to the side to safety and grabbed a broken branch. 

He then jumped to the side dodging its charge. As he landed he swung the branch at the metal bug, knocking off one of its clawed arms but breaking the branch at the same time. Glancing at his now broken weapon, he grabs it’s removed arm and readies himself. It charges again, identical to before. Ready this time, Josh jumps over it as it neared him, then proceeds to thrust the claws into it. Slashing it in half, it explodes lightly but leaves a small crater in the ground. 

Out its smoke flew out a Flicky, tweeting with happiness. It then flies up to Larry, who was holding the egg from before. ”Woah, this Flicky was trapped in it? But how? And why?” Asked a confused Larry. As he then started making a quick little nest for the Flicky and the egg, Josh simply shrugged and let out a sigh of relief. He then realized that his self taught training paid off defending Larry and himself. Finished with the nest, he then placed it on a tree branch, with the Flicky tweeting a “thank you” then setting itself on the egg.

”At least we saved this Flicky and this egg from trouble. What now Josh?” “Now we go back and warn Mercia of what happened by the Emerald Sea. There’s no way this was by accident. I think someone is capturing animals.” Josh pondered that last thought. Capturing animals? Who would do such a thing? And why? All that would have to wait as they started back on track, with hopes this time they’d avoid trouble.

————————

Edited 4 June by Thire-chu

[Geoffrey St John 142]

Ian St John, Chuck's house in Mercia

Ian approached Chuck's front door and knocked. He heard Chuck shout "You can leave the parts on the doorstep, I'll get to it in a moment" Ian just laughed and opened the door in a quick motion so it would catch Chuck off guard. "I'm not a delivery boy you old coot! Got anything for me to fix? And remember I can't fix any broken hearts!" said Ian as he entered Chuck's house.

 

Mighty, Feral Forest

Mighty was awakened by the sound of a crashing jeep. He quickly grabbed his stuff and rushed towards the area where the crash happened. When he reached the destination he saw someone in danger from some strange bugs. Mighty looked around for something to attack with when he noticed the bumper of the jeep had fallen off in the crash. He quickly grabbed  the bumper and used it to bash the bugs away from the one in danger. The attacks got more frequent and sensing the danger Mighty stopped holding back and swung at one of the bots attacking with  full force which sent the bot flying into another creating a barrier of smoke from the explosion.

Mighty was frozen for a second, surprised by his own strength until he saw a blast miss him. He started to run while the smoke blocked them from sight. "Come on! We need to get out of here!" said Mighty to Skye.

 

E-series101 Beta, Downunda Crater

"This is E-series101Beta reporting in. I have concluded my reconnaissance. There is nothing here of interest" reported Beta as it began to head back to base.

[Dylan 301]

Liza and Espio the Chameleon, Casino Night Zone
"Judging by the number of people crowded around here, it appears the object is over there" Liza said quietly

"We can't exactly see it from here. Do you want to squeeze past them all to see?" Espio asked

"And attract attention to you? That's something we don't want" Liza replied

"You're invisible and you have the proper training" Espio commented

"You have training too. Are you offering to come too? Or are you trying to lose me... again" Liza said

"I can't exactly go invisible now around all these people. That'll attract attention" Espio responded a little smug

"Well I suppose neither of us is seeing the object then" Liza replied

--------------------------------------------------

Marine the Raccoon, Downunda

After having received nothing but the usual laughs and spewing insults back at them, Marine went to grab a drink from the tavern

Blaze, Outside the town

Blaze slowly opened her eyes. She was lying in a small burning crater just outside of the Downunda town. She stood up, wiping the coat

"Did I make it?" she wondered to herself, looking around. Catching sight of the small down, she started heading towards it, to try and get some answers

[ChaosKaiser 101]

-Amy Rose, Vanilla the Rabbit and Cream the Rabbit - Vanilla's house, Southeastern coast of Acorn

"I know it is a very sudden change of plans, but I need to go to Mobotropolis as soon as possible!" Amy exitedly said. Vanilla couldn't hide her surprise after that statement. Still, she tried to give a response: "Amy, my dear, that's... errr... you know those predictions... are not... well...I don't see them as... the best way to decide your future..."

But the young rascal hedgehog wouldn't change her mind that easily."This is why I came from Spagonia, Ms. Rabbit! To finally meet the one man that will change my destiny!" Amy claimed with passionate enthusiasm.

Vanilla was clearly displeased by Amy's decision, and tried once again to dissuade her from travelling to Mobotropolis: "Yes, that's... encouraging, but maybe it's too soon for you to leave. Besides, if a boy is what you're looking for, in Mobotropolis you may find thousands of them that will try to-" 

"How do you know it's a boy and not a girl?" Cream abruptly interrupted. 

Both Amy and Vanilla looked at Cream. For a second, silence reigned in the living room, being finally broken by Amy: "Well, Cream, you see, I'm not simply looking for a friend, but for a more... complicated and deep relationship. I'm looking for someone who I can share my entire life with..."

"Like mommy and me?" Cream asked.

"No, not like that... more like..." Amy tried to reply.

"A boyfriend, that's what Amy's refering to." Vanilla added.

"Huh... but again, can't she be looking for a GIRL-friend?" Cream asked, still curious about why Amy was specifically looking for a girl. Silence is the answer she once again would find.

"I... I know I'm looking for a boy, Cream. It's something you know once you grow up..." Amy claimed with determination, and so she headed into her room, ready to pack her luggage. This time, Vanilla didn't try to stop her neither to convince her from staying. She knew Amy was too stubborn to give up.

Cream didn't quite understand everything yet. "So, what if Amy finds a girl that looks like a boy? Or a boy that looks like a girl?? Huh... love seems so complicated, mom!"

"At first, it is, my dear, but only until you find the one person you can share your heart with..." The older rabbit answered, looking at a picture of a younger herself, Cream as a baby and a orange-magenta kangaroo.

"...because then, everything becomes easy."

____________________________________________________________

-Tekno the Canary, Casino Night Zone

"But lady, there are no logs over here... I think..." said a brownish old owl, that wore a blue coat and a pair of glasses that couldn't hide his dizzy-looking eyes.

"No, sir, I've said a frog. A. FROG!" Tekno exclaimed to the old owl.

"A flaw? Oh, young one, we all have flaws, but it is our duty to overcome them and become better people."

Tekno sighed. She realised this man couldn't help her find that stupid frog... but maybe, the crowd that she could see from the other side of the street could.

"Hey, what are those people doing?" the owl asked.

"Don't know, but I'm about to find out!" the canary said before running towards the improvised congregation. Once there, she tried to make her way to the center of the "event", only to see a strange looking pod. "Maybe this is the thing that crashed last night and made my frogs go nuts. But, what is it anyway?" Tekno wondered.

"Wait, what if... what if the test subject is there??" Tekno asked herself, with the intention of aproaching the machine...

_____________________________________________________________

-Sonic the Hedgehog, South Island in Acorn Archipelago

Before the sapphire hedgehog could even touch the pod, he heard something approaching. Mechanical sounds that he'd never hear before. Small raging wheels dashing over the grass, buzzing sounds getting closer and closer...

"So I'm not the only curious one around here, huh?" the hedgehog said out loud. "C'mon, don't be afraid and show yourself, I won't hurt yo--"

His words were interrupted by the sudden attack of a Motobug that made him fall on his back. After the pain of the hit and a few miliseconds of apreciating the fresh texture of the grass, the blue guy got up.

"Okay, I changed my mind. I MIGHT hurt you if y--"

The buzzing sound stopped over him, revealing its origin: two wasp-like machines that shot several plasma bullets to the hedgehog. With no hesitation, the blue blur evaded the shots with little effort.
A bunch of Motobugs charged against the hedgehog, while a considerable group of red mechanical crabs appeared from behind the rocks. Yet, the blue speedster felt no fear. "Ohohoo... I see you brought some friends along, but even with that..."

The hedgehog started moving at the almost ludicrous speed he was known for, making him look like an azure unstoppable lightning.

"you're still..."

He started rolling like a ball, and blasted the robots that were on the floor, shattering them into pieces.

"no match..."

Then, he jumped in the air, maintaining his "spinning" state, and obliterated the two Buzz-bombers with the same ease he destroyed the Motobugs, allowing himself to make a perfect landing.

..."FOR ME!! Huh..."

With all the machines devastated, the only thing surrounding the blue hedgehog were a bunch of tiny animals of all kind: some birds, a bunny, a pig...

"Hold on a second..." the hedgehog said, and after counting all the robots he had fought, he realised the animals came from the machines. 
Then he looked at the pod. "These things... they were protecting that capsule..." 
Outraged, he dashed towards the pod, and spin-dashed throught it, making it explode, and freeing the rest of the animals inside.

"This... this is no good... I have to find out who made this to you ASAP." he said to the small creatures he unexpectedly rescued.
And so, he rushed, creating yet another sonic boom, while the animals fell after the brusque burst of the air.

 

 

Edited 20 June by ChaosKaiser

[Skye Prower 343]

Skye, Feral Forest

Dazed, it took Skye a moment or two to remember where she was, and why she was on her side.  Then the sounds from outside the jeep snapped her back to reality, and she scrambled to try and get free.

Pulling herself out of the truck, at first she was terrified seeing the robots flying above.  Then she noticed they were focused on someone else, an Armadillo that seemed to be using part of the wreckage as a weapon.  For a moment, she was more concerned that she hadn’t injured him or anyone else in the crash than she was about the attacking robots.

As an explosion of two robots smashing into each other created a plume of smoke, and two small flickies flew away swiftly to freedom, the Armadillo yelled at her to run.

“Uh…. R-right,” she managed to reply, before running after.  “If we can make it to the Ranger’s Cabin, we can radio for help from there,” she gasped.  The next moment something silver barrelled into her, knocking her to the ground.  The metallic form of Brian towered over Skye, and out of the corner of her eye she saw a similar figure heading towards the Armadillo.  Heart sinking, she knew that was almost certainly Fisher.

Brian reached down, grabbing Skye by the throat as he picked her up.  Skye wrapped her own hands around Brains arm.  “All Mobians must be processed,” he began.  “You…. will….. ser…. ve….. Doccc……….torrrrrrrrrrr.”  The robots speech slowed as the ice emanating from Skye’s hands started spreading, covering the robot, trapping it in a block of ice.  But the hand was still tight around Skye’s neck.

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Robotnik, Wing Fortress

Flames licked around the sides of the Wing Fortress as it descended into the Mobian atmosphere.  As it broke through, for a short while numerous warnings flashed on the screens as communications were disrupted by the atmospheric entry.  But soon the Wing Fortress passed through, and the warnings disappeared as contact was restored.

Except for one.

“Prison Pod and all forces in Sector Seven Two Zero Red have been render inoperable,” Zero reported.

“I can see that,” replied Robotnik tersely, as he reviewed the recorded footage from just before the communications disruption.  It all seemed clear.  Whoever or whatever had done this was fast.  Very fast…

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Wave, Sleet, Dingo, Battle Bird Armada Airship, the Eastern Coast of Northamer near Angel Island

“We don’t have time for this,” said Sleet dismissively.  “I don’t intend to be on this craft when it hits the ground.”  With a swish of his cape Sleet moved purposely towards the Manticore.

“What?  You can’t take that!” exclaimed Wave.  “The Manticore is a Relic!  You can’t just…”

Sleet turned, his trademark sly grin firmly in place.  “Oh, but I can.” His eyes ran over the helmetless Wave, her Extreme Gear board, then to Storm and the bad he was carrying.  “Here’s the deal.  You don’t do anything stupid to delay us as we leave, and Dingo and I will forget we ever saw two Armada soldiers go Rogue.”

“What are we forgetting Sleet?” asked Dingo.

“Don’t you mind, let’s just go,” replied Sleet, running to the Manticore’s entrance hatch.

Wave grimaced, but truthfully, she knew they didn’t have much choice.  There was only moments before the Airship’s engines gave out or were blown up, and then the craft would plummet to the ground. 

“We’ve got to let them go Storm,” Wave said sadly.  She didn’t want to see the Manticore stolen, but it was better than being destroyed.  And her own freedom was just moments away, and she couldn’t throw it away now.  Running towards the open hatch, she quickly powered up her Extreme Gear and leapt onto it, shooting out the side of the airship.

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Tails, Midair

‘I’m falling, I’m falling!’ Tails thought to himself.  But at the same time, it didn’t feel like any of the other times he had fallen.  And his namesakes were still making the strange motion from being cause in the draft from the propellers.

Slowly, Tails opened his eyes.  He was now some distance from both the airships, but still level with them.  And they weren’t falling.  So…. Neither was he.  But how?

Looking around, Tails gasped as his gaze finally fell on his twin tails.  They were spinning round rapidly behind him, like the propellers on the two airships.  And somehow, that was keeping Tails aloft.  In his shock, Tails suddenly tried to stop them from moving.  He gave a yell as the sudden stop caused both tails to jerk in pain.

And now he was truly falling.

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Battle bird Armada Airship

Aboard the Airship Bridge, the Battle Lord continued to bark out orders.

“Forget the damage!  Recharge the laser cannon.  Another strike will….”  His words faded as a shadow fell across the bridge.  Above, blotting out the sun, the Wing Fortress slowly drew into position above the airship.  If the airship had been outsized by the Flying Battery, it was now dwarfed by the gigantic Wing Fortress.

“You’re actions here have been an amusing diversion, but against the might of Doctor Robotnik, they are nothing more than a diversion,” came Robotnik’s voice, greatly amplified so that everyone aboard the airship could hear him.

As Robotnik spoke, the underside of the Wing Fortress opened up, a large emitter protruding, emitting a steadily increasing, pulsating whine.  The next moment, a wide beam of energy shot out from the emitter, slamming into the Airship’s bridge.  It passed right through the craft, into the sea below, casing the surface to steam and hiss.

And just as quickly, the beam faded.  Broken, the airship started to twist and buckle in the air, as the remaining active engines now started tearing the airship apart, several explosions erupting from it.

 

 

[Chromatic Terras 20]

Storm, BBAA

Storm nodded and followed after Wave. As she jumped off the side of the airship with her extreme gear, he took some time to place the bag down before setting his up. However, the booming voice from above caused him to stop midway and look up in confusion. Moments later, the gigantic beam came bursting through the roof of the hanger, knocking Storm off his feet and he began to slide towards the edge of the ship. The bag of equipment went sliding off beside him. Storm could only watch in panic before quickly snapping back and looking up to see his extreme gear falling towards him. He quickly reaches out to grab and and holds it close to him as he continued to hold onto the edge of the airship, as it slowly began to fall apart from the attack.

Gamma & Knuckles, Angel Island

Knuckles slowly circles around Gamma, who simply stands still and rotates it's head surveying him.He was unsure how exactly to approach such a foe, as he had no memory of ever fighting before. Suddenly the ground begins to shake, staggering Knuckles to a knee. He turns out to the ocean and sees a massive ray of light piercing through the clouds as it then travels deep into the ocean within a matter of seconds. The sight had left him stunned for a moment, giving Gamma an opportunity to strike and delivering a merciless haymaker to Knuckles jaw that throws him to the ground.

"Side objective met. Moving to primary mission." Gamma states before beginning it's climb up the shrine stairs.

 

[Thire 84]

Elias Acorn, Breakneck Ridge, outside Casino Night Zone 

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Elias had discovered that the crash site outside of town isn’t exactly the friendliest of places, and is guarded by robots like the ones currently chasing him. Remembering that there’s a canyon nearby that is easy to get lost in, he starts heading in that direction hoping to loose them. 

“Man, now I wish I asked Doug for that wrist mounted crossbow.” 

Coming up to the canyon he takes a quick sharp turn to the left and enters the maze. As he gets to a certain point in the canyon he finds a small alcove hidden by some overgrowth of vines. Hiding in there, he watches as the bots go right past him. 

Waiting about 30 minutes to be safe, and to catch his breath, he decides to try heading back prepared this time. “Well that certainly wasn’t what I had in mind when I woke up today.” Chuckling to himself. He then starts his way out of the canyon. 

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Josh and Larry, just outside town, Mercia

After a harrowing experience with robots, Josh and Larry are just about home. Concerned for everyone in town, Larry asked Josh “What do you think those robots would do if they got to town? Do you think they’d put everyone in robots like that Flicky?” “I... honestly don’t know what would happen Larry.” Replied Josh. 

“Look, there’s the gates to town.” Exclaimed Larry. They run up to the gates and ask the gatekeeper for entrance. Once inside town, they start heading right for their home. Along the way, Larry suddenly stopped. “Larry? What’s wrong?” “What if we lead the robots right to town? What if they started attacking here?” Larry started feeling guilty. “Larry... you’re acting as if they already came and attacked. Calm down and let’s get home.” “But Josh, what about all the other places that had meteors fall near them? Like where Mom and Dad went?” Larry started tearing up, thinking about his parents. Remembering back before the one robot attacked them, he said something similar to Larry to calm him down. Josh then put his hands on Larry’s shoulders and said; “Relax, I’m sure they’ll be fine. You know how Dad would always protect us from anything. I’ll be here to protect you.” Larry then started calming down. 

“Now let’s get home. I think after that we should talk to Uncle Chuck.” 

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Shard, Unknown Location

Audio Receptors: Repaired

Finally able to hear again, the sounds of nature come loud as it hadn’t adjusted for the incoming audio. Adapting to the audio levels, it hears an engine taking off to the skies. Words appearing on it’s HUD again:

Unknown takeoff identified 

Attempting to identify source 

Using it’s sensors, it ascertains that the source came from the top of whatever crater it’s in. It also identified the engines as “Robotnik technology”. Now Shard knew that where ever it is, Robotnik is present with his robots as well. 

Extremities motion: 15% capabilities

Attempt relocation

It tries to get up, only to get it’s head up to look around. 

Surveying area

No possible exit

Seeing how steep the cliff faces are, it calculated that it would be unable to climb out. Setting it’s head back down, it re-enters Low Power Mode...

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Elias Acorn, a canyon not too far from Breakneck Ridge, CNZ

After evading the robots, Elias starts climbing the canyon walls in order to avoid more of them. Once he climbs to the top, he is greeted by an old friend. 

“Well, well, well. If it isn’t Elias.” 

“Valentino, what are you doing here?” Elias said as he noticed Val’s men have weapons pointed at him. 

“Oh, just out for a little stroll, when I heard an explosion by Breakneck Ridge. I’m sure you know something about it.” Val questioned. 

“I’m afraid I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Elias replied. 

“Uh huh. I know what it was. I told you to a clean job, you messed it up! There’s spiky dudes, everywhere!” Valentino exclaimed. As he finished his sentence, the robots attacked again. 

“Damn, they’re back. Boys get ready! As for you Elias, we’re not through yet so if you even think about running off with whatever is at the crash site...” Val passes his notion of threatening him then turns to the threat.

”That looks like almost all the robots from the site. That might mean the site is low on security...” plotted Elias. He then takes a chance and starts running off.

“ELIAS!!” Shouted Val who noticed he left. He tries to go after him but some Motobugs cut him off. Elias on the other hand swiftly evades the robots, and continues to the site... 

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Charles and Ian, Mercia

”Ian? Heh, what are you doing here? And wait a second... broken hearts? Why you crazy Skunk, you know I don’t date!” Chuck replied jokingly to Ian. 

Just as he was about to tell him of the situation, the door flies open. 

“Uncle Chuck! Mr. St. John!” Shouted Larry. “Boys? I thought you two were on vacation?” Said a surprised Chuck. 

“Yeah, about that...” Josh started explaining the situation.

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[Seviper the Fang Snake 345]

Antoine, Mercia

Antoine continued to run for his dear life. 

"Stop or we'll fire scum!" Said one of the soilders.

"But we don't have crossbows on of us." Replied the other soilder which resulted in him getting smacked by his comrade.

"MON DIEU!" Shouted Antoine as he tripped and fell to the ground.

"I thought the D'Coolettes were brave and actually put up a fight?!" Said one of the soilders laughing.

 

Bean, Bark, Battle Bird Armada Airship

Two Battle Birds attempted to stop Bean and Bark's advances to the hangar but the Bean somehow manifested a bomb like object.

"How the hell...eh let's shoot em!" Said one of the birds.

Bean then grinned and lobbed the bomb at them, which exploded on impact. Fortunately for the birds they were just rendered unconscious. 

"That was DYNAMITE!" Said Bean as he and Bark reached the hangar.

Bark put Bean on the ground as the two stepped into the hangar.

"Leaving this place is probably for the best. They wouldn't accept my suggestion I put in the suggestion box! I want breakfast to be served for dinner!" Said Bean which caused Bark to sigh and wondering what he got himself into.