Take control as Dr. Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik, as he tries to reclaim what is his and expand the glory of the Eggman Empire to new heights in this brand new world filled with interesting adversaries!
It was a great day to be alive! Thought Mr.Tinker as he saw some children enjoying Eggmanland! The playground he had just built, one of his finest creations so far!
Seeing all those kids play in the slides, swings and sandbox he spent the morning building gave him a warm feeling on his chest, he may not remember who he was or how he ended up losing his memory but he knew he was meant for building things.
"I must say, Mr.Tinker, you did quite a good job today." Ramsey, the village's head, said as he walked towards him, cane grasped with both hands, a warm smile on his face. "I haven't seen the little ones so animated in a while."
"Oh, you are making me blush." Mr. Tinker said as he looked away and rubbed his head with a sheepish smile. "This is the bare minimum I could do for all you have done for me." He shrugs as they continue to watch the kids continue playing around.
"Oh you don't have to worry about that, it's never wrong to help someone in need." Ramsey comments sagely. "I admit we have our…fears." "Ramsey's face looks away as a frown appears on his face for a moment. "But you have proved that we were just the worrywarts. We are so happy to have you be part of our village." He finishes as he pats Mr.Tinker on the shoulder.
Mr. Tinker stares at the head of the village with a surprised look on his face. "Oh…I don't know what to say to that, but… Thank you, sir." He says as he smiles, a truly grateful expression on his face.
"Now, if you excuse me… I believe Ms. Meadow wanted help with making a new dresser for her house." Mr. Tinker said as he walked towards his toolbox, left on the ground nearby the playground.
"Very well, but be careful not to push yourself too hard, Mr. Tinker." Ramsey advised as he watched the once-dictator, go on with his day. "I see you all the time working, you ought to take a break once in a while!"
"Will do! Mr. Ramsey! Once I finish this I will-" Mr. Tinker starts, but he gets cut off once the earth start shaking… it starts glow, at a low intensity, but little by little the magnitude intensifies!!!
"I-Is this an earthquake?!" Mr. Tinker screams fearfully as he stays paralyzed, doing his best to keep his balance.
"No…that-that's impossible! There has never been any earthquake here!" Ramsey says scared too, as he goes towards the children, who start crying, terrified of what is happening.
Both Mr.Tinker and Ramsey were wrong assuming it was an earthquake. The earth shook, but so did the surrounding houses, the trees, the very air itself was shaking dangerously!
"C'mon kiddos, hurry, we need to get somewhere safe!" Mr.Tinker shouts, scared but gathering whatever courage he had left to go assist the village's head to protect the children.
(Unfortunately, for Mr. Tinker, his happy times were set…)
Mr.Tinker takes the hands of two children as they start running towards a barn.
(To end just…)
Suddenly Mr. Tinker falls to his knees, clutching his head as the vibrations gets worse and worse, specially on him, who can be seen starting to vibrate, as several alterimages of similar men like him start to surround him.
Mr.Tinker feels as he drops to his knees but only barely, his hands releasing the children and clutching his head as the vibrations ring through his mind, images flashing across his vision of men who looked so very similar to himself.
(Now)
SSSSSSSSHHHHHHATTTTEEERRRR
Everyone heard that sound, not just Mr. Tinker, and the people in the village, not only the restoration, not only Zavok and his lackeys on their faraway planet…
Everyone heard this sound across the multiverse.
And with that, an era ended…and a new one started.
For Mr.Tinker, being him right now was suffering.
"Confidence…A fool's substitute for intelligence."
Everything hurt, the shaking had just gotten worse and now, his head felt like someone had grabbed a wrench and was beating his brain directly with it.
"This is nonsense! You will obey me! Or there will be dire consequences!"
"Ah! Happiness is always so much more enjoyable when it's based on the misery of millions!"
Mr. Tinker starts shouting, partially cause of the pain, but also hoping he can drow out the other voices…he fails unfortunately.
"I was so close! And then that Stupid Hedgehog!...Of course! The Chaos is the constant!"
"I come to make an Announcement!!!"
"Get out! GETOUTGETOUTGETOUTGETOUTGETOUTGETOUT-"
"GET OUT OF MY HEAD!!!" Mr. Tinker shouts as reality unravels before him…
And then…
There is silence only.
"-ease tell me this has worked. This has to work!"
A voice rings out from the darkness of the void, waking the mind inside…
"Please Doctor, Is that you?" He feels a pair of hands grab his shoulders, helping him get up and steady him.
Little by little, the muddy waters that surround him start to diminish, allowing for a clarity that he hasn't felt in…he can't remember. Everything is still blurry, his vision severely impaired.
"The process was a success! I know it was. That idiotic "Mr.Tinker" personality should have been erased…Please Doctor, we need you!" The voice continues to ask him questions, but he is still trying to sort himself, he starts seeing colors again, the low red tint lights of the room giving enough illumination.
Soon, sensations come back to his limbs, and he can feel his motory functions to recover, allowing him freedom of movement.
And now that he has awoken, the only thing he wants..
"Dr. Eggman, answer me! Please! Is that you?" The voice continues, clear worry evident in it.
For a moment of DAMM SILENCE!
"Quit it! You annoying fool!" Dr. Eggman shouts as he pushes away the mysterious voice, as he slowly but surely gets to his feet…when did he fall to the ground?
He turns to look at the other inhabitant in the room. A platypus, with stylish hair and a weird globe with a rock on it, sitting on the ground, stares at him, with a hopeful and happy face.
"Dr.Eggman, you are back! Yes!" He exclaims as he gets back on his feet, and continues to stare at him with amazement. "How are you feeling?!"
"I will be the one to ask the questions here!" The doctor shouts as he makes an assessment of his surroundings, he seems to be in one of his bases, the exact one is something that escapes his mind for the moment, but he just needs a bit more time to cross reference data to locate it, if he doesn't find the answer before. "You better have an explanation of what's happening or else you will come to regret it."
The face of the platypus gets worried once again. "Y-you don't remember? What has happened so far? About Metal?"
"What are you talking about! What does my greatest creation have to do with…" And that's when he sees it. On a bench on the corner of the room, several pieces of a machine that Eggman is quite familiar with, and above all, the robotic head of one of his most dangerous creations. All dented, all broken down…destroyed.
"What. Happened." The demand, never a question, the Demand snarled out of the doctor and the sheer rage in his voice made the platypus shudder.
"Well…Sir..It's quite the tale…"
A few hours have passed since the conversation with Dr. Starline, his surprising savior, who found him while he was in that "Mr.Tinker" phase, and helped him come back to normal.
Eggman was sitting in front of the bench that had Metal's remains, he was quite taken back by the information that Starline had just dropped on him.
The world seemingly broken and mixed with other strange realities? Zavok and his pack managing to take command of his empire and most of Green Hills? Black Doom returning and an Empire declaring war on both Doom and the Eggman Empire? That blasted hedgehog disappearing?!
Too much, too much information, too many sudden developments, new variables to consider. He didn't expect Sonic being able to foil his latest plan, but that was fine for him. The rat wouldn't be his nemesis without being capable of this much, that was within acceptable parameters.
But the rest? Losing his memory, the world somehow changing completely out of nowhere? These new pests fooling around in his playground? Sonic just disappearing?
He couldn't just wait here with his arms crossed, he needed to do something…but what? Take back his assets from Zavok? Obviously, that was the right thing, but with so little resources at his disposal, it wouldn't be an easy task, fixing Metal would be a priority for that.
Look for the Hedgehog? Nah, sooner or later Sonic would appear to mess with this, his time would be better served preparing for their glorious rematch.
Luckily no one knew where he was, so he had time to think of his next move. But, and as much as he hated to admit it… he didn't know what was the correct step. He needed more data before trying a dangerous experiment like this.
And as he debated his next course of action, a loud crash could be heard outside the hidden base he was in. Did someone manage to find them?! That could be a problem. Checking the security cameras it seems like something had just crashed right at the entrance of the base… focusing more on the mysterious object he was able to find out it was:
Starting vote, please only choose 1:
[ ] A partially robotic version of Amy Rose, with half of her face covered in metal? Her body seemed severely damaged, with an arm torn off from the elbow and a leg missing entirely, her body was sparking all over. This was…
Interesting
Gain: Rusty Rose as a Hero Unit.
Connection to the Sonic Prime Plotline unlocked!
Gained a useful Power hero unit and good assistant to doctor Eggman!
Will cause lots of confusion seeing a robot version of Amy!
[ ] A woman? No, a robot version of one clearly. Were she standing she would easily be as tall as he was, her black and silver clothing along with her visor damaged in whatever explosion she suffered. Her body was in shambles, her upper body along with her legs completely intact, but the rest was in shambles. The amount of damage she received was… significant to to say the least. How…
Curious.
Gained: Mecha Robotnik as a Hero Unit!
Useful bodyguard for Dr. Eggman!
Connection to the Archie Sonic Plotline unlocked.
Laser Beams!!!
[ ] A weird robot with a design never seen before. it was clearly a female form with a white, sleek form covering her robotic body, somehow angelic in style. Her purple hair and unconscious face was a clear contrast from the rest of her body. As she saw it… Eggman could help but think…
This had potential.
Gain: Giselle as a hero unit!
Powerful Hero unit with great capacity for growth!
Connection to Stella Glow Plotline Unlocked!
Possibility for Eggman to obtain new Tech from another setting sooner!
This is a Project I have been working for a long time, and finally managed to work enough of it to be able to get started.
I enjoy CK2 quest and crossovers a lot, and have always wanted to try and QM one of this. This is a crossover between Sonic main continuity and the Sega All Star Villains doc, while the information wasn't complete, there was enough lore here to make it work alongisde a few aditions.
Finally, I would like to thank @Boohoo the 3rd@Ranger65@KA$H and @ShepardCom for all their assistance and inviting me to participate on the Qm of the quest, without you guys, i would have never taken this step. I tahnk you from the bottom of my heart.
Dc 85 (If Roll fails, Dc for next time it procs will be reduced by 10. Once the check passes, DC resets to 85. Actions can be taken to reduce the normal DC of Shattered Memories)
Roll:
Result: 84! (So close!)
Failure!
Eggman fails to remember Anything!
"Mmm…Chaos Council…New Yoke City…Interesting." Eggman couldn't help but mutter as he reviewed the information from this "Rusty Rose" Database. What he had learned so far really intrigued him.
It was morning already, the doctor, once he saw their unexpected gift, wasted no moment in springing back to action, waking Dr.Starline to help him bring the robotic version of Amy Rose to their Lab. Both of them were able to drag the very heavy machine to this base workbench and began the hazardous task of repairing her.
Oddly, once Eggman laid eyes to her personally, a flash of pain surged on his brain, something was trying to resurface, like a long lost memorie that was always there, but had no reason to appear.
He seemed to see flashes of a city…but then he saw what seemed to be like a baby version of him and made him recoil in disgust, letting whatever it was fade away. He didn't want to know what that was about.
Anyway, both of the doctors spent the last few hours fixing this weird robot, and he had to comment, her design was incredibly similar to his badniks…but at the same time not. He could see several of his ideas and personal touch on her, but it was bizarre, like if someone used his brilliance in unexpected ways he never thought of, which was ridiculous, no one anyone could do something like that!
After, replacing her power core with a new one, and building the new limbs for her. Eggman spent the last few hours digging inside the robot Memory Banks. Much of it was corrupted, the damage he suffered was so great that he doubted the Robot could remember much of the last few days' events.
Even so, there were nuggets of info he could find in the database that told loads of information. A program for total obedience for any Eggman in the Chaos Council? That implied there was more of one version of him that she obeyed…Curious. Some coordinates for a New Yoke City that didn't appear anywhere on his data banks? Possibility of her coming of an alternate reality, not unexpected. He would need more time to dig through what he was able to salvage of the original data.
"How fairs our patient, Dr. Starline?" Eggman asked as he decided it was enough for now. It was time to put this generous gift to new use!"
"She should be ready to be reactivated, good Doctor!" His wannabe fan said with much enthusiasm, being happy to assist him on working on this project, currently he was wearing a welding mask as he finished integrating a new leg unto this "Rusty Rose". "Should I reactivate her?"
"Of course! Our newest recruit needs to meet her master after all!" Eggman shouted excitedly. With this unexpected gift, he had a few ideas already in mind of how to employ her to the best of her ability.
"Right away!" Starline shouted as he disconnected the power cables connected to Rusty and gave the command to reactivate her systems.
In no time Rusty Rose opened her eyes and stood up from her bench. Expression blank as her systems rebooted, eyes glowing red with the symbol of the glorious Eggman Empire. Eggman rubbed his hands excitedly while Starline watched in awe.
"New software detected. Change of directives detected. Analyzing new parameters." The robot said with a monotonous tone as several digital sounds could be heard coming from her. "Update complete."
She then turned to look directly at Eggman. "Good afternoon doctor. How may I be of service today?" She asked as she adopted a more formal posture, ready to obey any command.
"You may be no Metal, but you will do just fine for now." He commented as he rubbed his chin. "There's too much to do now…finding those Emeralds could help a lot right now."
"Um… Dr. Eggman. I forgot to mention this before buuuut…" Starlien says as he retrieves a small chest from inside his coat, opening it, he shows the contents to Eggman.
Eggman stares at the contents for a second before breaking into an evil laugh, as he grabs the chest from Starline.
In his hands, the Blue Chaos Emerald shines brightly, ready to be used in whatever grand scheme the doctor can think of.
"Oh yes! Now, we are working with real power tools!" He says as he goes to leave the lab. "Follow me, both of you! There's much work to be done!"
"I need to remind the world who is their true leader, and there are lots of preparations to do for my grand return!"
Assets:
1 hidden base
1 Metal Sonic remains.
1 Chaos Emerald (Blue one)
100 Metal Units.
You guys have 1 action available in each category.
Cubot and Orbot can be assigned to a Logistics action that doesn't count for the cap.
Dr. Eggman can pick 4 Personals per turn. Other hero units can pick only 1 per turn.
Power
Establish a Defensive Parameter DC:40/60/90
There are more nuisances than ever and it's best they stay out of your hair for the time being. As they say, good fences make good neighbors, so put up some barbed wire and make sure everyone knows that until you decide to change the deal, you'll be an excellent neighbor.
Reward: Defensive Parameter established around your territory and the beginnings of your borders established.
Clear nearby area from Zavok's forces. DC:30/60
Recently, a concerning number of Badniks under the control of Zavok have been roaming near the area that you're using as a hideout. You still can't believe that idiot dared to take control of your Badniks! Time to smash them!
Reward: Presence of Zavok's minions around the area is reduced. Gain Metal from the Badnik Scraps. Passing 2nd Tier means that Zavok doesn't have any clue of what happened/doesn't get suspicious.
Cannot be taken with Quietly Retake Your Badniks
Note: This action lowers the DC of Zavok's Base Raid
Launch Attack Zavok's Base DC:200 (Actions can be taken to reduce DC)
That Zeti dares wield your own weapons and robots against you! And he dare do so quite effectively from a very well protected base! This shall not stand, this shall not stand so swears Ivo Robotnik! Build up your own forces again and show that magical menace what the might of true genius brings!
Reward: Begins assault on Zabok's base of operations with the possibility of defeating and capturing him, restoring the Green Hill Zone to your control.
Steal The Master Emerald DC:135
...This might not be the time for this but blast it all if that emerald is not the largest source of Chaos Energy on the planet! If I can manage to get the emerald back to base, power and resource management will be a thing of the past!
Reward: Begins Attack on Angel Island with the possibility of stealing The Master Emerald
Launch Attack On Black Arms Base DC175 (Actions can be taken to reduce this DC)
Black Doom has a small foothold in the Green Hill Zone but I am loath to let those disgusting creatures hold even a shred of what will become Eggmanland! Build up your own forces again and show those man-eating aliens what the might of the Eggman empire is!
Reward: Begins assault on Black Arms base of operations with the possibility of removing them entirely from the Green Hill Zone.
Launch Attack on GUN DC:120 (Actions can be taken to reduce this DC)
They're back!? These fools are like cockroaches. No matter. You will just put them in their place again. You did it once before, after all.
Reward: Begin assault on GUN bases, possibility to destroy GUN completely... Again.
Launch Attack On The Restoration DC:150 (Actions can be taken to reduce this DC)
"The Restoration". How adorable, they believe they can stop resisting and start restoring the world from me? I am the change this world needs and these animals need to understand that! Let's see if I can't make the lesson stick this time.
Reward: Begins assault on The Restoration base of operations with possibility of destroying them entirely and taking prisoners and supplies.
Heart
Go Visit The "Mean Beans Coffee Cafe" Shop. DC:Autopass.
Starline has commented about a really nice Coffee Shop found in one of the towns just within the Restoration borders. The lattes they sell there seem to be loved by everyone...Mmm. With all these setbacks, you could use a Latte...
Reward: Robotnik Meets ???, ???
Try To Make Contact With "Captain Metal". DC:60
There's been rumors of a pirate roaming the seas near Green Hill, who has some similarities to your greatest Creation. This intrigues you deeply…perhaps you could try to start talks with him? While revealing yourself too soon before you are ready could be risky, this may be an opportunity.
Reward: Make contact with Captain Metal, unlock new actions, chances for collaboration with Captain Metal.
Reach Out To The Restoration: DC:90
While you acknowledge that you were the cause of almost literally every problem the resistance and now "The Restoration" has faced, you have worked together with many of their members, begrudgingly, in the past. Perhaps they would be willing to work under the banner of the Eggman Empire once more, especially in light of this new and changed world.
Reward: The Restoration "joins the empire" and begins feeding supplies and information to Eggman.
Logistics
Build Some Badniks: DC:Autosuccess.
Metal Cost: Variable (select a badnik squad to build)
With most of your factories either taken over or destroyed, you are forced to create more of your precious Badniks by hand. Not that it is really an inconvenience! You can create a squad of them with your eyes closed and one hand tied behind your back!
It just will take time and resources to do. You need an efficient way to produce more of them but for now this will do.
Reward: Construct a squad of the selected badniks.
Stewardship: Rebuild Metal Sonic DC:50
Metal Cost: 50
You can't believe this...your greatest creation, Metal Sonic, destroyed?! How dare they!!! You cannot stand for this! That scum Black Doom and The Empire think they can just destroy your property and shame your name? Not in a million years! Once you rebuild Metal, you will show those fools their comeuppance!
Reward: Rebuild Metal Sonic. Metal Sonic unlocked as a Hero Unit.
Stewardship: Rebuild The Egg Mobile DC:Autopass
Metal Cost: 25
Your normal ride is looking less than stellar as a pile of scrap, but at this point it has been destroyed so many times you wouldn't be surprised if you could rebuild it in your sleep.
Reward: Egg Mobile rebuilt allowing you to travel further faster and granting your classic weapon/ride.
Brains
Locate "Evila's Swingin Report Show" Network Frequency DC:30
According to Starline, there's a TV station called Space Channel 5 that is constantly transmitting a news channel that relays the newest and most exciting content. Mmm... checking this "Evila" could allow you to find more of what's happening around the world. With your satellites down, your intel gathering has been... "limited".
Reward: Unlock Global Rivals report, Will be shown public things that other Kings around the world do that Space Channel 5 manages to broadcast.
Survey The Area: DC:30
You know what The Green Hill Zone looks like, but it may be best to get an idea if anything has changed dramatically and to take stock of the new lands that surround it.
Reward: Find out what changes have happened to the Green Hill Zone, what territories surround it, and possibly meet some known and unknown faces.
Making Due With Less DC:70
You are a master and making sturdy and powerful machines of destruction and weapons of war! Unfortunately you are desperately low on resources right now and may need to make due with less than ideal robotic minions. But this is only for now! Your minions will be right again once you have regained your proper place!
Reward: Unlock Scrapnik versions of all non-super versions of your Badniks which can be made at half the Metal cost, but have no traits and this ability will disappear at the end of turn 5 or when you get to 300 Metal, whichever comes first, as Eggman has an image and ego to maintain.
Hack Into Zavoks data bases through the Egg-net. DC Contested Brain roll against Zavok + ???.
Seems like Zavok has taken control of all my systems, having configured the badniks to recognize him as supreme leader! I could try and send a virus to the current base he uses through the Eggnet to possibly snag control of the badniks, or at the very least, put viruses to cause trouble for him.
Still, it's a risk, if this goes wrong, they could have the means to trace me... No matter, I must do it!
Reward. Managed to hack into Zavok's database, unlocks options of how to debuff him, possibility to take control of badniks back to Eggman
WARNING: FAILING ROLL MIGHT REVEAL ZAVOK EGGMAN IS BACK/GIVE AWAY EGGMAN'S LOCATION
Note: This action lowers the DC of Zavok's Base Raid
Trickery
Intrigue: Look for Promising Minions DC:30/50/70
As it stands, the resources I have to work with are more limited than I expected… As much as I hate to admit it, I must look for more Minions to employ. Starline is a good start, but he can't work 24/7 like my badniks. I need more hands I can order around...and not have to micromanage every second.
Reward: Options to recruit Hero units, quality increasing by higher successes. Automatically recruit a Hero Unit from the batch obtained. Rest can be hired with a Heart action in following Turns.
Quietly Retake You Badniks: DC:50/80
Zavok has managed to usurp control of a large number of your badniks and many are roaming the area that you use as your hideout. You are their creator and true master though, you can reassert their original loyalty programing if you can manage to reach them quietly.
Reward: Presence of Zavok's minions around the area is reduced. Gain a random assortment of lesser badniks and a small amount of Metal. Passing the 2nd Tier means that Zavok doesn't have a clue of what happened/doesn't get suspicious.
Cannot be taken with Clear Nearby Area From Zavok's Forces
Note: This action lowers the DC of Zavok's Base Raid
Look For Clues To The Whereabouts Of That Blasted Hedgehog! DC:20/100
You and Sonic are two sides of the same coin. To say you like each other would be a laughable lie, but only you are allowed to end this little game you play with each other.
Reward: Find Clues to where Sonic has disappeared to.
Infiltrate The Empire's Territory. DC:60
Apparently since the "Shattering." The world was completely changed, from what Starline was able to tell you, only the Green Hill Zones and Angel Island remained, everything else has been replaced by other places from other worlds or even universes! One of the closest ones to hear is a territory called the Empire, who Metal attacked and might have...spurred a bit. Now they are in a three way war between Zavok and Black Doom.
So far the Empire has managed to take over some of the territory originally to Green Hill Zones... Perhaps it could be worth infiltrating it to have some eyes on it?
Reward: Infiltrate the zone that connects the Empire with Green Hill Zone. Unlock new actions.
Mystic
Gather Rings DC:5/50/90
Rings are a strange naturally spawning mystic item that covered most of the world back before the transformation. It seems they have not stopped appearing in the Green Hill area and there may be some use I can make of them, if only as a source of power.
Reward: Gain rings, the amount depending on level of success and ???
Study The Warp Topaz DC:70 (Only Starline May Be Assigned)
I have seen many different versions and knock off gemstones trying to match the power of The Chaos Emerald, but if Starline is to keep the thing he better study it, understand it, and fill out a full report.
Reward: The effects and powers of The Warp Topaz are completely understood and possible research into duplicating its effects unlocked.
Check The Area For Magical Objects DCariable
Back on Mobius I couldn't walk ten steps without tripping over some world ending gemstone, key to a mystical prison, or some other such magical nonsense. Those are all useful things to both have and prevent others from having, however, best check to see if things follow suit in this new world.
Reward: Possibly find various magical stuff from any of the worlds that have combined
Personal
Return to... His Lab
Mr.Tinker is not you. He will never be you. You will never be him. But still, he had a lab. You should investigate it, just to be safe.
Reward: Get old abandoned things from Mr. Tinker's lab. ???
Getting Back To The Grind
Despite what that blasted hedgehog believes, you do take care to keep yourself in good physical condition, otherwise how in the world would you manage to keep one step ahead of him?
Reward: Eggman works out, potentially gaining Power on High Rolls.
Do Some General Tinkering
You are, at the end of the day, an engineer. And there's nothing good on TV right now!
Reward: Eggman tinkers with random parts, getting items dependent on roll.
Draw Up Blueprints
When I have time it is nice to simply relax and allow my mind to rest, drawing up complex machines of war and conquest and plotting out the odd invention or two
Reward: Eggman draws up blueprints for one of his many weapons of war. High rolls have him remember something that he never made, but a version of him did.
Study your New Minion
Hmmm... You have to admit, Starline has been useful, but what you are really interested in is this new ally of yours. They're from a whole different world, and could glean intriguing information...
Reward: Learn more about Rusty Rose, unlock potential uses from their tech.
Read up on Eggman Lore
Sure, you are quite knowledgeable on the genius that is Dr. Eggman, but you can't Allow yourself to get rusty and overlooked!
Reward: Gain more insight on Eggman, potential ability to recreate something Eggman has done in the past as New Personals
Check Out The... "Local Talent"
Several of your more personal experiments are in need of "locally sourced" talent. Taking a trip into Green Hill Zone and people watching may be an excellent way to find the right people for the "job".
Reward: Dr. Starline people watches and perhaps finds subjects for a later experiment.
Starline
Talk To Orbot
You utterly refuse to entertain Cubot, you have some degree of standards even with the brilliant Dr. Eggman's tech. But Orbot is... Tolerable.
Reward: Starline talks to Orbot, potential to learn some interesting tidbits about Dr. Eggman.
Search This Base
Apparently the Eggbase you commandeered for the good Doctor is one he used to store nostalgic inventions he has no other use for. It's quite possible there could be useful items lying about.
Reward: Starline finds salvaged Eggman inventions that could potentially be repaired for his own usage.
Talk to Your New Co-Workers
This Eggman seems very different from your masters in the Chaos Council. Still, he matches them in other ways. He seems to have more... Spirited lackies at least.
Reward: Rusty talks to Starline, Orbot and Cubot. She gains useful insight into her new boss.
Analyze Recording of "Sonic the Hedgehog"
According to your data, Dr. Eggman's greatest rival is that blue hedgehog. In order to assist the doctor in his plans for world Conquest, defeating that menace is a must!
Reward: Chances of Rusty of Gaining a trait when fighting Sonic.
Find Out Who This Amy Is.
You have been told you look similar to one 'Amy Rose' perhaps you should search for information on this person.
Reward: Find the current whereabouts of Amy Rose.
Rusty: Practice Limbs Akimbo
Upgrades and repairs have been made to your form and you must recalibrate and gain proficiency in your limbs again. They are an extension of yourself and you an extension of the Eggman Empire, there may be no flaws.
Reward: Rusty takes time to recalibrate and settle, high rolls may improve the Limbs Akimbo trait.
Yeah...that yellow zone in the territory? That was GUN, they are back Baby.
Good luck with your planning!
Vote In plan format please.
MORATORIUM: WAIT 24 HOURS BEFORE VOTE OPENS. PLEASE DISCUSS IDEAS AND PLANS.
[X] Plan: Back to basics
-[X] Establish a Defensive Parameter DC:40/60/90 - Rusty Rose
Results: 84 (Roll) + 24 (Rusty) + 18 (Eggman Power)+4 (Loyalty) = 130
Great Success!
Thanks to your great tactical mind and the robotic able body of Rusty Rose, you were able to quickly set some fortifications around what will be your homebase…until you manage to recover what's rightfully yours from that blasted Zeti!
It was quite an easy thing to do, just order Rusty to establish security cameras at designated points, their location making them very hard to spot. Use some of the remaining scrap to make a few sensors, turrets, a few mines for those "bothersome guests" and the occasional death traps around the base to complete it.
With this, not only have you managed to set some defenses against any unwanted invaders, but have taken the first step for your grand return!
Results: Established Defense Perimeter. Marked your own Territory!
Any invaders receive a -30 Malus when attacking. And -10 malus to infiltrate your base!
Eggman position on the Map:
It's the red spot.
-[X] Go Visit The "Mean Beans Coffee Cafe" Shop. DC:Autopass.
Results: Autopass
To be continued in: EGG+STONE= A Match Made in Hell
-[X] Rebuild Metal Sonic DC:50
Results: 43 (Roll) + 32 (Eggman Logistics) +20 (Eggtronics) = 95
Great Success!
Ahhh, Metal Sonic. Without a doubt, your greatest creation to date. Sometimes you impress yourself with the diabolical schemes you managed to come up with.
Metal Sonic is the pinnacle of your evil Genius! A machine made in the visage of your greatest nemesis, with the intention to be better in every single way! Even has the capacity to evolve and absorb the bio data of those heroic pests!
Sure, there had been...a few mishaps with his programming, but that's what science is about! Making hypotheses and experiments and testing them! A few hiccups are to be taken into consideration.
But you digress! As you spent a whole afternoon returning Metal to his evil, blue, and shiny murderous glory. You took the chance to obtain more information from Starline about how your invention got into such a pathetic state. You wanted to know who was responsible for such transgression so you knew WHO TO CARPET BOMB TO OBLIVION!
Unfortunately, Starline lacked that data. From what he knows, Metal fell while invading the Empire in your name. He was engaging one of the Empire strongest Agents apparently, someone belonging to a "Drei Stern" or some ridiculous name like that.
Surprisingly, The Empire agent was able to stand their ground against Metal in his "Neo" form, something surprising to take into account for future engagements. Just when it seemed like your creation had the upper hand, that insidious Black Doom's forces arrived on the battlefield, and caused enough of a commotion to give The Empire the chance to destroy Metal!
This won't stand! You quickly took to the task of repairing him. With Metal at your side as it rightfully is, your enemies will soon learn the true fearsome might of your greatest creation when led by a true tactical mind!
Unfortunately, you didn't have as many resources to work with as you would have liked. The current base that Starline had taken refuge had so few tools and parts to work with. You made due of course you are Eggman! Still, while fixing Metal to his base conditions was within your abilities, further upgrades would be harder to impart on him without more equipment to use.
As you installed the newest Power Core unto Metal's chassis, and checked your computer to make sure the correct software update was uploaded, we couldn't afford any more rebellious nature from your creation, no sir! You gave a satisfied grin as the computer confirmed all updates have been done successfully.
"Alright, just need to activate the energy flux and redirect it to the Power Core, make a final check so Metal's sensors and biodata analyzer are up to snuff…and Voila!" Eggman shouts as he finishes the last inspection and the last button for Metal to be reactivated.
"Rise and Shine Metal! There's a world to conquer and your dad needs you to show some fools their place! Wahahahahaha!!!" He laughs as Metal eyes shine brightly and he stands up from the bench.
Metal just looks up to you and just stares with those shiny murderous eyes, like if he was trying to say: "...Where is that Hedgehog?" You quickly understood what he wanted.
You give Metal a bloodthirsty grin as you answer. "Oh, we will deal with Sonic soon enough my boy! But first, there are some other upstarts I need you to deal with!"
Results: Metal Sonic has been repaired! Obtained Metal as a Hero Unit!
Please choose a Starting trait for Metal:
[ ] Black Shield: Once per battle, first time an opponent would critical success against Metal or metal gets a Critical Failure, it's instead like if Metal obtained a bare succes against the enemy
[ ] Plasma Pulse: Can be used once per battle. Metal skips his turn and next turn he gets a +20 bonus to all combat rolls until the fight is over.
[ ]Ring Spark: Once per battle, Metal Gains a +10 to combat rolls and can attack all enemies nearby, but loses 1 life/Hp after use.
Metal Sonic Sheet:
Metal Sonic Power: 30 (I built Metal Sonic to surpass that hedgehog, and no one can say I've fallen short! Metal has the speed to match(if not surpass) Sonic and the firepower to fry him to a crisp!)
Heart: 0([No. Metal has shown me time and time again that granting them independence will only lead to headaches down the line. Metal will be a weapon, and STAY that way until I deign otherwise)
Logistics: 10 (Metal can manage itself without my supervision)
Brain: 4(While Metal Sonic is undoubtedly one of my most advanced machines, the bulk of his processing power is devoted to combat and high-speed situational awareness; leaving them with precious little to spare outside of its prime objectives)
Trickery: 8(Metal can recognize deception and potentially return it in kind, putting them far ahead of most Badniks)
Mystic: N/A(Metal does not understand or wield arcane powers beyond those of the gemstones I imbed in his chest)
Loyalty: 70
Traits:
OBEY EGGMAN: Metal [either has an automatically high loyalty or is fundamentally incapable of betraying Eggman on his own] and gains +10 to resist being forced to do so by outside forces such as hacking, magic, or the like.
Mano-focused: Metal Sonic is made to fight, not lead. (Metal cannot be used to command Badniks, Minions, or Allies except as as an instrument of Eggman's will)
Copycat: Metal can analyze the biodata of an opponent and replicate their abilities(Metal can scan an organism to copy their combat traits. If a suitable trait doesn't exist, Metal will synthesize one in its place)
-[X] Rebuild The Egg Mobile DC:Autopass - Orbot & Cubot
Results: Autopass
Normally, you wouldn't trust those two bunglers to wipe your shoes unsupervised, but fixing up the Egg Mobile was a relatively simple task.
So you ordered Orbot & Cubot to repair your old ride. The two saluted and got to work, yammering to each other already. You don't care to listen and let them get it out of their systems as long as they do the assigned task.
And they thankfully do, having the Egg Mobile repaired in a mere 2 hours.
My my, you knew there was a reason you kept them around.
Reward: Repaired the Egg Mobile for your use!
Egg Mobile - Your truly all terrain vehicle that has been improved and upgraded through the years, it is your mobile command point and a powerful weapon. (+5 to combat rolls and flee rolls. Flee roll bonus increases to +15 if the foe cannot fly)
With all these new developments it was important more than ever to have a deep understanding of the current situation.
Starline had said that the world had somehow mixed with other realities, but you admit, you didn't fully understand what he meant until you set out a few drones that you hastily built to do some recon around the area…
It was bizarre, to say the least, your mind had allowed you to achieve great feats that would have an intellectual individual confused, but you couldn't help but stare at the current state of the world.
The Area of Green Hills was relatively the same, it still retained its annoying green vegetation and happy looky animals, yuck! But the areas outside of it?
It was like someone made a patchwork robot of totally different parts. Where one area ended, another started, but you could easily tell they didn't fit, or belong there. Like if someone has just crushed two pieces of land and made them stick together.
The scientist in you wondered how this was possible, most likely magic, Ugh. You couldn't help but be annoyed at thinking that another magical artifact was the cause of this.
From what you could see, to the west of Green Hills, "the Empire" was located. Currently, their focus was on invading Green Hills, with some Brigadier "Selvaria Bles" leading the charge against Zavoks forces. They seemed to have technology way too outdated to your standards. They barely had a chance against your weakest Badniks!
To the south, there were more new areas that had appeared. There was the Empire of Radaxian adjoined to Green Hills. Led by some guy named Janken the Great, who seemed to have a weird obsession with Games?
After that there was a place called Tokyo-to lead by Goji Rokkaku, he seemed to have the place completely on lockdown. If the amount of defenses he set up weren't easy for you to destroy you would be impressed, Ha!
To the West of them was seemingly a place called Tokyo too? That's weird. Anywho, the area seemed to be controlled by a corporation called Judgement 6, who from what your drones could check, seemed to have an obsession with fighting tournaments! There was always an advertisement of one being held every month if you understood the data correctly.
Lastly, to the Southwest, was a place Primp Town, if the big Sign outside of it was any indication.
…You would have liked to get more information from it but everytime your drones got close, they always short circuited and fell to the ground! It was infuriating!!!
Returning to Green Hills, you managed to identify the locations of the "Restoration" and GUN, apparently those fools still continued to resist Zavok, if from what you saw of that weird Lemur with that strange hand tail and a blond haired officer leading some forces to combat the increasing badnik presence in the area.
The most important discovery you made this month seemed to be that the earth itself of Green Hills was affected in some way. Your scans were able to detect the presence of some new mineral never seen before, you managed to obtain a sample, and from what you could see, it's energy signature is similar to what the Empire uses for its weapons…
How interesting.
Results: Learned of the Nearby Kings! Discovered some of the Empire, Restoration, and G.U.N Hero Units (Selvaria Bles, Tangle the Lemur and Agent Topaz)!
Discovered that the Area in Green Hills seems to have deposits of this strange mineral (Ragnite)
Unlocked Action to Mine Ragnite!
Unlocked Action to Study Ragnite!
-[X] Look for Promising Minions DC:30/50/70 - Starline
Results: 84 (Roll) + 20 (Starline Trickery) + 22 (Eggman Trickery) 3 (Loyalty) + 5 (Omake Bonus)= 134!
Great Success! (6 points from a critical success!)
To Be Continued In " Lesser Minion Tryouts: For Those Much Worse Than Me. A Powerpoint By Dr. Starline."
Humiliation. That's the main thing that was running through Eggman's mind as he collected rings outside the base. Luckily he was able to build a few drones to assist him and even Cubot and Orbot helped with the task.
It took the whole month but by the end, he had managed to collect a sizable sample to study and do some experiments with.
Something worth mentioning is that Cubot had managed to point a few unique rings in the area, but unfortunately he failed to successfully retrieve them.
No matter, he can try later!
Results: Obtained a decent amount of rings, Action to look for the special rings unlocked!
New Actions Unlocked:
Upgrade The Badniks To Ring Power:
Create Ring Retrieval Units
Build A Ring Reactor
-[X] Dr. Eggman: Return to... His Lab
Result: 70 + 5 To Be Continued In "You Can't Come Home Again"
-[X] Dr. Eggman: Do Some General Tinkering
Result: 39
You used some of your time tinkering with some of the scrap laying around the base. You won't lie and admit that the process was somewhat relaxing to you. Taking some time off your upcoming world conquest and focus on one of the things you truly loved.
That doesn't mean you were really productive with that. By the end of your tinkering session, you only managed to build a few blasters to use for personal defense. Not your best work, you would admit, but it will do.
Results: Build EggGuns!! X5
Can be assigned to a Hero Unit and grants +5 bonus to combat rolls!
-[X] Dr. Eggman: Draw Up Blueprints
Result: 37
As you stared at your desk, you couldn't help but to find yourself in one of those weird situations where you didn't know what to make. The lack of resources was a factor to consider, but that was barely a setback! In no time, you would have your Empire back! After you destroy that annoying red beast.
Letting your mind wander as you think of the several effective ways you can make Zavok regret being born, you let your hands work freely and let the first sign of inspiration guide you.
At the end of your session, you were holding the blueprints of one of your first inventions. The Death Egg Robot! A classic for sure! But a little bit outdated compared to your current standards. Still for such pathetic enemies, this will do just nicely!
Result: Action unlocked to build the Death Egg Robot!!!
-[X] Dr. Eggman: Study your New Minion
Result: 91
Eggman used the remaining free time he had studying the most recent addition to his forces. And he couldn't help but be relatively impressed by his counterparts from that supposed Chaos Council.
This Rusty Rose was originally fully organic! Until his counterparts managed to somehow piece by piece transform her into an ideal killing machine. The process to turn organisms into Androids was something Eggman was aware of and totally capable of, but he never saw any reason to do it.
The Technology Rusty had wasn't that different from his, but still. With a few hours to check her design and fully understand how she worked, Eggman was confident he couldn't only upgrade her to even greater heights, but also make an Elite Badnik version of her! They will be a nice addition to his army, without a doubt!
Result: Action to Upgrade Rusty Rose.
New Badnik Unlocked: Rusty Badniks Versions!
-[X] Dr. Starline: Check Out The... "Local Talent"
Result: 12
From what you heard, After finishing his alloted tasks, Starline took some personal time to go.. people watching?
Hmmm. Not something you had any interest in, nor what you expected from him, but it was none of your business.
Unfortunately, there was a sudden burst of flash rain. Starline didn't get much worse than a case of the sniffles, but it was still annoying enough he apparently came back to base without having seen much of anything.
Meh. Surely nothing useful would have come of it anyways after his earlier searches.
-[X] Rusty Rose: Talk to Your New Co-Workers
Result: 63
Rusty, from what you can gather, is getting along well enough with your fellow minions. You were personally busy repairing Metal Sonic at the time, so you are not quite sure, nor do you care all that much beyond the fact it will be useful for them to be on the same page for the most part.
"I brought you some tea, newbie!" Cubot said cheerfully, hovering up to Rusty.
"I do not require sustenance." Rusty said simply.
"Awww. I thought we could stand around a fence drinking it and saying Yep to each other."
Rusty, Starline and even Orbot all stared at the yellow machine, clearly having no idea what he's on about.
"Is the boss behind me!?" Cubot fearfully looked.
"Dr. Starline. Why does Eggman keep such a... less than stellar individual around? It seems counterintuitive to his stated goals." Rusty chose to move on and probe Starline for information.
"Bah! I wouldn't question the Man. He respects loyalty and his brilliant mind is hard for anyone but perhaps myself to comprehend. If he keeps Cubot around, he has a darn good reason." Starline snorted.
"I wouldn't say it in quite the same way, but the doctor has a point, ma'am. Dr. Eggman knows best, and he has his reasons for everything he does, even if they seem strange to us." Orbot added.
"Affirmative. Noted." Rusty nodded along.
"SERIOUSLY WHERE IS HE, GUYS!? I'M FREAKING OUT!" Cubot cried, having been looking around for his boss this whole time.
Reward: Rusty feels she better understands Dr. Eggman. She also gets along decently with her co-workers, though Cubot baffles her.
Random Event Roll: 51
You don't know where all these blasted cats came from, but they are quite annoying.
You can feel a small sense of kindred for them, they seem to have a similar disdain for small animals, but Unfortunately that means they mistake Orbot and Cubot for such creatures and attacked them mercilessly!
You had to spend a whole afternoon putting the two idiots back together.
If you were having issues with these things roaming Green Hills, the fools over at the Restoration were having a catosphere! These strange cats were going around attacking the local wildlife on top of their usual issues, so they were quite literally herding cats on top of their usual problems.
Once Orbot and Cubot were fixed up, it was actually quite amusing!
Results: The Restoration gets -10 to Rolls this Turn from being busy, quite literally, herding these strange cats.
No Moratorium, you guys can vote as soon as I open the vote in a few moments.
You dedicated EVERYTHING to one man. To one brilliant, amazing man who had all your heart.
You knew, despite how it appeared to others, it had been mutual.
The Doctor didn't just let anyone hang around him. The Doctor didn't NEED to come back to him as soon as he could. The Doctor didn't NEED to bring him along to help pilot his grand last invention.
And yet, all that happened. They were a perfect pair, he liked to think. It was them against the world.
And then the world took everything from him.
He had passed out halfway through the battle after hitting his head, like a rube. He wasn't sure how he survived The Eggman Robot's destruction.
(Sometimes he loathes that he did when he will never know if the Doctor followed suit.)
He is fuzzy on the details, but when he came to, the machine was destroyed and, once again, Dr. Robotnik was gone. Not stranded in another dimension this time. He might have been… been….
He couldn't finish the sentence.
He went into hiding then, infiltrating GUN. It was child's play to get in with those idiots. The way they spoke about the Doctor, celebrated him being gone, it made his blood boil though. He may have… taken his anger out on the person he stole his uniform from.
(He wouldn't be a problem if- when Dr. Robotnik resurfaced.)
…And then everything was hit by a bright light.
And Stone was here. Still alone.
He woke up near the remains of the Mean Bean Coffee Cafe. It had been damaged in the fight, but not irreparably so.
With nothing else to do, he got to work rebuilding it.
People helped, here and there. And when the cafe was finished, they came in droves, loving his coffee.
He pretended otherwise, but it offered him no pleasure.
But it was useful to be a liked member of the community.
For when he came back.
The Doctor would be back.
…The Doctor always came back…
It was early afternoon, About 12:38 (You had learned great punctuality, working under the Doctor), when your thoughts of the past were interrupted by the cafe door's bell ringing.
With practiced ease, you swallowed your misery and gave a winning smile.
"Hello! How many I assist-" You started.
And then you stopped and stared. You teared up.
It… it couldn't be… but it was!
It was-
Xxx
You were Dr. Eggman, and you didn't understand why this fool was staring at you with tears in his eyes.
"Doctor. You're back. Finally, You're finally back." The man said, barely able to speak above a whisper from the sheer emotion.
It was making you sick, and deeply weirded out.
"What are you blathering ab-" You start to demand, before you get a weird feeling again.
Shattered Memories? DC: 75
Roll: 78!
He remembers!
Before you can finish your sentence, you grip your head as memories come flooding in.
You remember barging into a government area, you remember sending strange white spears around the world, you remember an obsession with licking a blue quill, dancing, singing, isolation, another tricking of that Enchidna, GRAND POWER interrupted by an explosion…
It all comes back to you before you black out, your last memory being the strange man rushing to your side.
Xxx
You blink as you stare at Stone as he keeps you steady. Ah. You could always count on that sycophant to be around. It was one use he had, amongst a sea of annoying quirks.
"Stone." You nod. He practically broke down then and there, and you casually smack him.
"Get ahold of yourself, man." You rolled your eyes. Without skipping a beat, he nods and provides you with Your beloved Steamed Austrian Goat Milk coffee, to your delight. Though maybe you should cut down. This body certainly had some… extra heft.
"Doctor, I knew you would come back. I knew you would. I just had to be patient. And I was. I really was-" Stone was blabbering on.
"Stone, you imbecile - Mmm, that's some good coffee - Would you listen?" You sigh. Stone, ever obedient, shuts up.
"I am going away. Probably forever. And this chunky boy… he's going to take my place." You sigh. Blegh. Emotion. How ridiculous.
But not like you would be around long to regret it. You could already feel this… Eggman, trying to reassert control.
"NO! I don't understand, Doctor." Stone pleads.
"Of Course you don't. Look, Stone. I… your service was useful. It was replaceable, but you… ugh. You know what I am trying to say!" You snap.
"Of course I do, doctor. I… I always did. I won't forget you."
You laugh at that and do a little spin.
"Bah! Of course you won't, fool. I am just too memorable. LATERS!"
Xxx
Xxx
With that, you suddenly regain consciousness and shake your head with a wince.
Standing there was the man, his tears fresh. He wiped them when you looked at him.
"Don't worry, doctor. No matter what form you take, I'm your rock." He handed you something.
You were about to complain about getting a bill when you didn't even get to order anything, but you blinked in surprise.
It was the deed to the cafe. You looked back to the smiling man, who stood dutifully with his hands behind his back.
"...Come alone to these coordinates as soon as you can. If you are followed, you will regret it."
"Understood, sir. You have my word I will serve you well until the end of my days, though you will surely succeed at your goals long before then."
You blink before laughing. He joins in, though it's less malicious and more one of genuine jovial emotions.
"I think we'll get along just fine, Mr…?"
"Stone. Agent Stone. Forever at your service, Doctor."
Rewards: Gained Agent Stone As a Hero Unit!
Agent Stone
Power: 13 (He claims, through his association with another me, He was technically a government agent, so he can't be completely weak. The damage he can sustain certainly speaks to this.)
Heart: 17 (Stone has admitted he can make small talk, but he rarely interacted with many people outside that other you, at least for extended periods of time. He did tend to be your middle man though apparently, so he has learned to get along with others, at least long enough to form alliances.)
Logistics: 29 (Stone is dutiful and deeply skilled at obeying even the most unorthodox of commands. He would find a way to solve nuclear fusion if I were to request it.)
Brains: 17 (He is slightly above average, mostly from years of observation.)
Trickery: 19 (He's not perfect at this, but he did get his current coffee shop via framing an innocent man for embezzlement. That requires certain skill - and a hidden deviousness that even I have to take notice of.)
Mystic: 6 (He seems aware magic exists, but has little ability to utilize it.)
Loyalty: 50
Traits:
I Am Your Rock: Stone's utter willingness to accept any treatment seems to extend solely to me, but it is still odd, if useful. (Stone's loyalty is always capped at 50, with even the most drastic of actions having reduced opinion losses.)
I'm Here, Doctor: Stone displays an uncanny knack for knowing what exactly I might require. (When Assigned to an action that results in Critical Failure, roll a 1d8. On a 1-4, the action is reduced to a mere Failure from Stone anticipating this might have happened and taking measures to end up reducing the effects.)
Your Austrian Goat Milk Latte, Doctor: ...He makes a fine cup of joe. (+5 to Rolls Involving making coffee.)
Gained the Mean Bean Coffee Cafe as a secondary base!
The village that surrounded the area was… quaint would be the polite way of calling it a podunk little town in the middle of nowhere. Windmill Village was not a place the great Dr.Eggman would ever trouble himself with but these were not normal times.
Starline had directed him to the village, the platypus had assured him that he could go in the doctor's place, but he was waved off and told to get back to organizing the minion information.
This… this felt like something he had to do on his own.
No Egg Mobile, no Orbot, no Cubot, no this was something only Dr.Eggman could do. After all, who else could handle looking at what he was, could understand the devices he was sure that the ridiculously named "Mr.Tinker" came up with.
Indeed, that is why he was standing at the entrance to the workshop in the dead of night. The self assurance and might of his mind is what had the great Dr.Eggman's hand resting on the door for several minutes now, his own brilliance making sure he considered everything that could possibly be behind that door…
Taking a deep breath, he pushed open the door and looked upon what in another life was his workshop. Tools hung upon the walls, simple hand tools for the most part, arranged in an order that was familiar. The same system of organization that he used in his own personal workshop, or at least the oldest version of it when he made his first badnik by hand. There were various other pieces laid out upon the many benches and tables, laid out with care…
The half-assembled clock seemed heavier in his hands than it should have, the small filigree and craftwork seeming to shine even brighter in the moonlight coming in through the windows. The engraving on the back panel read Happy Birthday Marco.
Setting the clock down where he found it, he moved deeper into the workshop. This was a journey to recover supplies, not look at admittedly finely crafted knick-knacks. Drawers were pulled open and shelves emptied. Antiquated tools while they might be, needs must.
A soft creak broke through the silence of his work. Quickly turning to face the figure, he froze, a feeling of ice water pooling in his stomach as he looked at the figure behind him.
A pink shirt covered by green overalls, pointed green cap, bright pink shoes, gloves exactly like his, all covering a wooden frame. Clearly modeled as a mobian, orange hair pulled back into two long braids, and blue eyes that pierced into his own as they welled with tears.
"Dad?"
[Shattered Mind Rol- INTERRUPT]
__________________________________________________________________________
You are Belle the Tinkerer and you have been lost for months now. After The Shattering everything had been completely topsy-turvy in the worst kind of way. People had been hurt, things had been broken, and your dad…
He was gone.
You tried your best to look for him, the rest of the town even helped when they could. But he was just… gone. Some people started saying nasty things, like he was the one to cause The Shattering, which was crazy! He was your papa! He didn't do things like that, he made swings! He repaired toasters! He read you stories at night when you got scared of the windstorms outside…
He couldn't just be gone…
And he wasn't. You had heard something moving around in the workshop and, thinking a flicky might have gotten stuck inside again, went to check when you saw him. He was there, standing in a weird red coat with golden buttons, black pants and boots rummaging through the work benches.
The noise of the door made him stop and turn to look at you, his eyes widening as he did so.
You could barely manage to get out the word.
"Dad?"
You both stood, frozen in the moment for what felt like eternity before, slowly he kneeled down and held out both of his arms wide.
You crashed into him, sobbing as you hugged him, crying wordless tears of joy and relief as you felt your father's arms wrap around you for the first time in months. His words only made the tears flow faster.
"Belle… I'm so proud of you. You have become such a wondrous person, more than I ever expected and more than any father could ever ask for. I am sorry I left you for so long."
You shook your head against him, denying that he had anything to apologize for now that he was back, but he wasn't done.
"I am also so very very sorry I am not going to be here for you much longer."
Pulling back, tears blurring your vision, you look at your father as he smiles down at you. It is not his normal joy filled grin, but a much sadder smile.
"What-" the words barely choke out of you. "What do you mean? You just came back! You can't leave me again!"
"I am sorry Belle." He says, his hand rubbing small circles on your back, comforting as he always does. "But this… Shattering. It did more than just change the world. I am not who I was anymore, at least not always. Mr. Tinker is… is going to be going away for a long time. And he may never come back."
"No!" You hold him tightly again, shaking your head as you press your head into his chest. "No! You can't go! Please, please daddy, please…"
He holds you close as your tears spill again, sadness and loss filling your heart.
"I would stay with you forever if I could my darling daughter." His chest rumbles as he speaks and you can feel liquid hitting the top of your head as you cry into his chest. "But this nightmare that has come… I don't know if I will ever surface from it again. But I need you to remember this Belle, for all of time."
He pulls you back so you can both see the tear filled eyes of one another.
"I love you Belle. I will always love you no matter who or what I become."
You both embrace once more, for what you both feel will be the last time, tears staining both of your cheeks.
He started, shaking his head and feeling flecks of liquid fly free as he tries to establish what just happened.
He had somehow ended up on his knees, the torch he had brought dropped to the ground and tear marks stained his face.
There was also a badnik crying against his chest.
She looked familiar, so familiar but he knew for a fact he had not made a puppet badnik like this before and he certainly would not have given her the ability to cry, why would he…
His arms were around her, in a tight hug, as hers were around his.
This was wrong, everything about this was wrong.
Then why did he not let her go?
They both stayed like that for some time, the badnik's tears eventually running dry as her eyes closed, seemingly imitating sleep.
He… he was unsure what to do. This girl… he… there was something there. Something that might have mattered, something that could matter, but he couldn't… he was Dr.Eggman! This girl he couldn't… shouldn't…
He tightened his grip on her and stood, holding her against him and exited the workshop. The tools would remain, the scrap would remain, this… this needed to be taken care of first.
____________________________________________________________________________
Belle The Tinkerer has sort of become a Hero Unit! She and Dr.Eggman have deeply conflicting feelings and their relationship is up in the air.
Belle the Tinkerer
Power: 13 (Belle has a slight defense mechanism installed, but she is no fighter.)
Heart: 25 (Belle is a kind hearted, helpful, and friendly individual who gets along well with others despite some shyness and self confidence issues.)
Logistics: 15 (Belle helped... Her father with projects here and there and can follow instructions rather well.)
Trickery: 8 (Belle is a very openly emotional person. She dislikes lying and duplicity.)
Brains: 15 (Belle is perfectly average really, it appears. Hmmph. One would think I- Her father would provide more advanced intelligence in his state.)
Traits:
Trial Period: Belle has come home with me, but her current opinion is... Volatile. (Belle's Loyalty gains and decreases are both doubled as she adjusts to Eggman.)
Friend to All Children: Belle was created partially to be a comforting presence to the youth. (+10 to Rolls Involving helping children, reduced to +5 if they are teenagers.)
Last Name Makes Sense: Belle is ultimately not as much an expert as others, but she is well versed in handling her fellow machines. (+10 to Rolls to tinker with machines and other Badniks.)
You were the great Dr. Eggman and today you were in a really foul mood today.
The results of your visit to… "Mr. Tinker's" Lab still left you with so many questions, and the lack of data to answer them wasn't doing you any favors. Belle has been so far… agreeable with the sudden events that happened, but she barely can dare to look at you. Pssst. Fine, like he cared at all!
You left her with Rusty Rose and gave orders to your robotic minion to keep an eye on her and make sure Belle didn't go anywhere or got into trouble. Hopefully the android version of Amy was capable of such a simple task.
You needed something to take your mind from…whatever in Chaos this was! Thankfully, one of your newest recruits was able to focus your mind on something more productive. Starline just informed you that he had managed to complete a dossier of promising candidates.
You really hoped the platypus could deliver on his promise and not just waste your time. Otherwise, he will be the perfect test subject for Metal to make sure his repairs were up to standard.
Currently you were in the base's "Official" meeting room, where the only people present aside from you, were Agent Stone (Who was busy preparing lattes for everyone), Metal Sonic standing at your side, as it should be, and the scientist who had called all of you here and seemed to have spent an obnoxious amount of time preparing some kind of presentation…
"Welcome Doctor. I hope your visit to Windmill Village went without a-" "Shut it."He starts to talk but you interrupt him immediately. From the side of your eye, you see Stone look at you with worry for a second, but quickly continues with his task of preparing the lattes, like a good minion.
"I don't want to talk about it, Starline." You say as you massage your temple. "There were…some variables I didn't take into consideration." You sigh, still not being able to come to terms with…whatever happened there. "That does not matter at the moment." You finish as you give him a glare.
"You said you found some suitable minions to use. You called us here, so get on with it." You say with a tone that leaves no room for complaints.
Starline looked unbalanced for a moment, not sure how to react to your demand. But he tries to recompose himself, coughing for a moment to buy time. "I…understand, Dr. I am sorry for bothering you with such… trivial matters."
"Very well, my good doctor, I shall start immediately." He says as he motions to the monitor behind him, as it turns on.. "As you requested almost a month ago, I have scouted every inch of Green Hills, looking for acceptable targets that you could use to further your plans of taking back your Empire!" He says with a flourish as a title card appears on the screen.
Lesser Minion Tryouts: For Those Much Worse Than Me.
A PowerPoint by Starline.
…Not even 1 minute in, and you were already starting to regret assigning him to this.
"There were several criteria I used when looking for promising minions to induct in your glorious organization." He continues as he slowly walks from one side of the room to the other, fully engrossed in these thoughts.
"They must bring some skills useful to you, either by fighting, infiltration, diplomacy, or even proficient in the arcane arts." He explains, as he moves to the next slide, filled with a list of characteristics he was looking for. "Next, they must have an in for you, Dr. Eggman, either they are mercenaries looking for a job, or they are in a situation where they can't easily refuse you."
"Which leads to the last point, loyalty! We must have either a way to keep them in line so they don't dare to betray you or get in your way. Letting any of those simpletons learn about your grand return and blab it to the wrong person could spell doom! Having ways to neutralize them and keep in line is a must!" He says as he makes a fist and punches the palm of his hand. At this point you decide to chime in.
"All I'm hearing is what I already know, not something new." You say as you tap your foot rather impatiently. "You did manage to find someone…right?"
"Oh doctor, of course!!" Starline agrees quickly. "Obviously I need to set things up, even if you obviously know all of this, it's important to explain everything right, from the beginning, as it must!"
"I excitedly inform you that I found no less than 11 candidates to become your newest minion!" He informs you as he strikes a pose.
"Eleven…mmm." The number really surprises you, you won't lie. As you stroke your chin, you consider that such an amount might be too much, but seeing your current situation and lack of resources, any fool you can wrangle into subservience could present a boon, you will take it. "They better be good candidates."
"Oh, I'm sure you will find the choices…quite appealing." He says as he holds the remote to pass to the next slide. "And Starting from the bottom of the barrel we have…" And with a click, an image appears, one of quite a strange creature.
"...It's not often someone manages to catch me off guard Starline but I can say, I didn't expect that." You comment as you see the picture Starline showed. "Tell me…more."
Starline quietly laughs. "With pleasure."
The more things change, the more they stay the same. That thought continuously ran through his mind. He had escaped and left that bar, hoping for a fresh start, and where did that leave you? Working at another bar as the bartender.
There you go superstar! His mother would be proud of him…surely.
It was a slow day, no customers coming to get a drink, but that was expected. With the current war going thanks to that red tamale and those weird black beasts, people were pretty spooked and didn't dare to exit their homes.
Hopefully the regulars were going to come soon, it was a pretty boring day, he could use someone in this dump that was willing to just talk about all their miseries…
And as he cleans another cup, his big ears manage to catch a loud crash coming from the door, looking up he sees…Oh don't tell him that…
"You betta give us the money!..." He can't believe this…
"Or else prepare for this place to crumble!" For fuck's sake!
"Cause now you are dealing with…" When he asked for some entertainment…
"ROUGH AND TUMBLE!" He didn't mean this!
"Okay you weirdo, you better cough up the cash, or else you gonna get it" The big tailless one said as he cracked his knuckles.
He just shook his head and pointed his gloved hand to a sign on the wall that says: "NO FIGHTING."
The pair just stare at the sign before letting out some laughs like they find the situation funny. "And if we want a fight?" The small one shoots as he starts to take a few steps toward him.
The bartender just sighs and puts the glass he was cleaning down, before preparing his powerful hind legs and hopping from the bar right towards the little one.
"Wait wha-" Is all he manages to say before he connects a drop kick so strong he ends up launching the wannabe robber out of the place…making a big hole in the establishment.
"Bro! Oh you gonna regret this you…" The bartender doesn't give him time to finish his threat before he hops again towards him and connects a powerful uppercut with his boxing gloves, launching the other half of the pair right through the roof.
A moment later he comes down again, totally unconscious, as he crashes in some tables, making another hole and more of a mess.
'God dammit, I'm going to clean all of that, don't I'. Is the thought that crosses the bartender's mind as he goes for a broom to start fixing the place
"Roo the Kangaroo, professional boxer and owner of the bar, The Lucky Hopper, inside the Restoration territory!" Starline explains as you stare at the image of a kangaroo with some boxing gloves and a chair fastened around his neck. "He arrived in Green Hills, a few weeks after the Shattering happened."
.
Roo the Kangaroo (Power Hero Unit):
Apt Boxer!
Knows how to run a Bar.
Doesn't talk.
"He has shown surprising combat experience! Not only that, his business and only means of income are going through extremely hard times. If his luck doesn't change, he will have to close down and won't have anywhere else to go!" Starline explains quickly. "He would be an easy minion to manage, one that comes with his own leash, so to speak!"
"Mmm…" You contemplated Starlines proposal…while having another blunt instrument to use, your precious Metal Sonic was more than enough against most enemies. Even so, you had to ask. "Any other reason why I should consider him?"
"Well, he can't speak, so you will not have to deal with any complaints from him!" Starline ends with a smirk, and you can't help but give one in return.
"An excellent point, Starline." You comment as your finger continues to tap the table. "I will keep that in mind, next?"
"Well Dr, tell me, how do you feel about fashion?" Starline comments as the next slide appears.
Fashion Design is an art. One does not simply make clothes. They needed to understand many things. The design of the clothing needed to have a clear intent in mind, know what to highlight, especially considering your target audience. Next, the perfect combination of colors needed to be found, one does not simply mix red with blue on a project, no Sir! Finally, you needed to find the right materials and be skillful enough to create the clothes with them. For that, you needed connections.
Those are the thoughts that run through the young CEO's mind as she finishes her latest project. A wonderful set of clothing for Autumn! Where one can wear it and be comfortable and look stylish all in one!
It was set to be her greatest masterpiece. Unfortunately, it would take time for this project to be complete. You cannot rush fashion after all.
As she contemplated possible color combinations for her upcoming dress, the loud and clear ring of a bell could be heard. That could only mean one thing! She had a new customer!
"A moment please!" She calls out as she quickly tidies herself, she can't afford to not look as presentable to her clients!
Entering the main area, she sees a pair of female mobians browsing her wares. One of them was a cute poodle Mobian who eyes one of her summer time dresses with such interest! She was happy when her clients recognized her talent!
"Welcome to Honey Clothing!" The CEO says as she flashes her warmest smile towards the pair and offers her hand for a handshake. "How may I help you today? Anything you have in mind?"
"Well, we were looking for a few dresses…There is an upcoming party soon and we need to look as fashionable as possible!" The Terrier Mobian says, looking with excitement at all the dresses on display. "Think you have anything for us?"
The owner can't help but smirk playfully. "Ladies, you came to the right place." And with that the young woman spent close to an hour helping the pair try different kinds of dresses, continuously looking for the perfect combination of clothes that sated her desires.
She didn't mind taking so much time on this, in fact, she enjoyed it!
After helping the pair find the perfect dresses for their party and buying them, she happily walked them off to focus on her grand project.
"Another client, another person that looks as sweet as possible!" She pats herself in the back mentally Everything has been going on perfect-"BOOM!!!"
Her line of thought is greatly interrupted as the wall close to her is destroyed instantly! She falls to the ground as the store shakes, not able to take such punishment.
The young lady questions what's happening when a loud voice rings out for all the town to hear.
"Listen well, you pitiful creatures! This town is under the control of Zavok!!! Submit or face the consequences!" Followed by that another explosion happens in her shop.
NONONONONONO.This can't be happening! Is the last thought she has before everything goes dark.
As she wakes up, her whole body hurting, she sees the big neon letter "HONEY CLOTHING" Right in front of her.
Her store…everything she worked for…all gone. She couldn't believe this.
"Honey The Cat, Owner of the once famous Honey Clothing. Unfortunately one of the first victims to Zavok's cruel takeover of Green Hills." Starline explains to you as you process the information. "She currently resides in Restoration territory, basically homeless, with just the pity of the organization giving her a place to live, and with the fires of vengeance burning bright inside of her."
Honey the Cat (Heart/Logistics Hero):
Expert Fashionista
Social Expertise, perfect for a good spokeswoman of the empire.
Knows how to run a business
Is looking for vengeance against Zavok.
"Is this seriously the best you can get me?" You ask surprised and maybe a bit insulted. "A fashion designer? Are you implying something about my sense of style?" You frown at him for even suggesting that!
"Not at all Sir! I was thinking Honey could be an ideal target to subvert! She has base desires of violence and wanting her business back! By giving her both things, you could easily make her loyal to you!" He raises his hands in a placating manner. "Also, we could get official uniforms for all the goons in the Empire! Would that not be fantastic?"
"Mmm…I suppose there's some merit to that." If all it took to gain the loyalty of that cat was helping her rebuild her shop and getting payback on that Zavok, she could be a low investment minion to employ.
"Will add her to the list. Next!" You order immediately.
"Right away Sir! Now for a change of pace, let's talk about some Undead Lovebirds, shall we?" He says as he presses the button to move to the next slide.
You were a simple prison guard, once upon a time.
Those were the days. Bad days that is.
Wake up, guard prisoners, shuffle off for the next guy, rinse and repeat. Bleh.
It was so… tedious. You weren't really LIVING, and not just because you were a zombie.
And then… and then you met her.
Zobiko. The poor lass had been locked up. He never did learn why. But he also didn't care.
She was beautiful. The most beautiful thing he had ever seen.
When he freed Zobiko, he expected nothing in return. He wanted her free, because he felt she deserved it, seeing her so miserable. He never would have expected her to reciprocate. But she did.
They'd been together ever since.
They wandered the world, seeking new experiences (and keeping a close eye out for danger).
So what if the world was scared of them? They had each other.
Zobiko seemed to agree as she swooned when you brought her a freshly plucked rose. You smiled.
Suddenly, there was some rustling in the bushes. You went to investigate, Zobiko staying close by to help if need be.
Huh… that was a weird ladybug. And… was it a robot?
Cool!
…wait why are there dozens of them.
Why are they attacking!?
Zobiko could handle herself, but thankfully she was very much willing to let you assist her. The two of you made quick work of the strange robot ladybugs, destroying them in just a few minutes.
And then as you looked around the carnage, Zobiko giggled. You joined in and soon you were laughing loudly and kissing.
Best date ever!
Zobio & Zobiko (Power Unit with Slight Heart Focus)
Experienced Fighters of Zombie Hordes
Surprisingly Nice
Madly in Love with each other
"...Are…are those actual zombies?" You ask bluntly. To say that was impossible would be foolish, with all you had seen, but it was still quite the surprise obviously. What was this, a late night creature feature?
"Oh yes, sir. As you can imagine, they are quite durable as a result, and know their way around in a scrap. They fought through entire hordes for the right to love each other, according to my eavesdropping!" Your platypus minion nodded rapidly.
"Blegh."
"Oh yes, agreed. But love can be a powerful motivator for the weaker minds."
"Oh yes, trust me, I know…" you mutter, mind briefly flashing to Amy Rose. Bleh. What an imbecile, but a POWERFUL imbecile!
"If you rather hear about a more…common type of fascination. I think I have just what you want to hear, Doctor." Starline says as he moves to the next slide.
This world was wrong, it should not be like this. She still doesn't know how or why the Shattering happened, but she knew one thing…
"Eggman is the rightful leader of this world!" The small angry individual shouted to the troops that had rudely invaded her home. "You have no right to come here!"
"Ma'am. We have been informed by reliable sources that you have collaborated with Eggman Empire agents." The GUN soldier replied as another pair of soldiers kept the young woman restrained. "As long as you are in GUN controlled territory, we are in our right to respond to such claims."
As the soldier spoke to hear, more agents arrived at her house, searching all over it. Risking finding out what she had hidden. They didn't care for her personal privacy. Not that she realized or cared, too angry to think rationally.
"He ended all of you! He squashed you like a bug! And he will do it again!" She continued to struggle against the soldiers, who managed to keep her in her place thanks to her small stature. "Once he comes back, your lot will be SORRY!!!"
The soldier just ignored her, obviously refusing to accept the TRUTH and sacred word of Eggman. She was ready to shout some obscenities at him when one of the nearby soldiers said something that made her heart stop cold.
"Lieutenant! We have discovered a possible hidden compartment." The soldier said as they removed a poster of Sonic the Hedgehog from the wall of her living room, revealing a hidden trap door. "This may be it."
She renewed her struggles now, but instead of anger, worry fueled her. "No! Anywhere but there. Please!" She begged. She imagined her idol looking at her in disgust for showing such WEAKNESS to the enemy.
The Lieutenant just stares at her for a second before addressing the soldier. "Do it." He gives a nod and proceeds to break down the door.
"Nooooooo!!!" She shouts in despair as the officers enter into her sacred shine.
"We are in, sir. We have found…Oh my god." The soldier begins to say but can't help to mutter as they stare at what was behind the door.
Eggman was there. Eggman was everywhere! The small room was filled with every and any type of Eggman related merchandise, from posters, action figures. Even there were Eggman-disguises for her. And in the center of it, there was a huge Statue made in gold in the image of her Idol.
After spending some time turning the shrine heads down, the soldier just shakes their head, not finding anything worthy.
The Lieutenant just sighs. "Seems we had a false positive. Time to retreat to base."
"How dare you!" She wails as the monsters breach her private Sanctum. "You had no right!!" She wails, defeated as the soldiers leave her house, nothing she can do…
Thunderbolt the Chinchilla (Brains Hero with side focus on Logistics)
Expert in electronics.
Decent Administrator.
Not a Social Person at all.
Bloodthirsty but small
Eggman empire's zealot
whole new brand, same great taste!
"My dear Thunderbolt seems to be a great fan of your work, Sir!" Starline explains as you can't help but be impressed by that level of fervor towards you. "She could be the ideal minion for you to boss around. Most likely she would enjoy being ordered by you 24/7!" He says, like he was very impressed with himself for this find.
"That's an image I really don't want to have in my head Starline." You shook your head. "Still, aside from some fanaticism towards me, what else can this Thunderbolt do? I'm not really looking just for fangirls."
"Well, she takes after you and is a veteran expert with electronics. She has managed to make a few inventions of her own. Nothing compared to your work, obviously. But still, something worth remarking. She is also a somewhat capable administrator from what I have heard."
You hum as you consider her. You suppose at the very least, having someone that is so loyal to you could somehow be a boon… "She might do it for now…Next one!"
"As you command!" Starline does a flourish as he moves to the next slide. "For this one, how about I show you a feeling we can be more familiar with?"
"I'm talking about hate." He says as the next image appears.
Her quarry was near, this she was certain of. Even in this strange land, hunting scum remained the same. With Death Hound and his sense of smell at her side, tracking these fools was just a matter of time.
Her chase led her to a cave hidden by some of these weird hills. Even now, she couldn't get used to how…strange the people of the land below were. It seemed wherever she went there were always wars and tragedy happening everywhere. Not that she really cared about that. All of this was secondary to her true objective.
As Death Hound started growling as they entered the cave, she knew her prey was near, these Witchcrafters have harmed innocent people, and it was her job as the Angel of Death to deliver Justice.
Since her vessel was damaged in that storm and forced to land here, she had spent countless hours trying to find a way to return to the skies, but with the current war going on, resources were scarce, and the money required for the repairs was ridiculous. Luckily, the Restoration and GUN were kind enough to offer rewards for those that delivered troublemakers to them.
Not a moment later, she was in front of her bounty, a trio of these weird looking people, who kept bickering about some nonsense she didn't know nor care to find out.
As the soon to be dead criminal readied themselves to face her, she readied her scythe and knives, while giving a command for Death Hound to pounce at them.
Even when she was dealing with a battle to the death, her mind was still focused on one thing only. THAT MAN.
He needed to pay for his crimes. She won't rest until she makes Vyse pay!
And as she began another deadly dance, she allowed herself to stop focusing on revenge and deal with the present.
Piastol (Power/Mystic focused Hero)
Expert Bounty Hunter.
Seems to need a vessel of hers fixed as soon as possible.
Possesses some strange magic abilities.
Is looking for a Vise(?) person, chances to use that to control her.
"Piastol, or as she has become known…The Angel of Death." Starline says as the picture of a teenager with the weirdest clothing style appears. "She is a dangerous bounty hunter that appeared in Green Hills one day, and has slowly but steadily gotten rid of most troublemakers that have arisen."
"You want me to hire a bounty hunter? Really, what's stopping her from trying to take a swing at me? Not that she will be able to." You say unconvinced, as useful as she could be, there seemed to be many risks that you couldn't afford to take.
"Ah! But sir, that's the perfect part! We have the means to perfectly "guide" her." He informs you with a smirk. "She seems to have come from a faraway land in some weird flying boat that crashed here not long ago, she seems keen to return to where she came from. By promising her to be the key to her transportation problems, you can easily reel her in!"
You stroke your mustache as you reflect in those words, while a good incentive, it doesn't seem to be enough for-
"Not only that! In her spare time, she has focused on looking for clues for a certain Vyse, she seems to have some sort of deep grudge against them." Starline quickly continues. "If you can assist her in looking for her prey, you could also control her movement, or where she goes to be specific." He gives a nasty grin at that.
Well, that changed a few things. "Helping others assist in finding their nemesis, eh? I can't say I expect that…But I think I can see what you mean." The idea had…potential.
"Glad you are interested in this proposal, Sir." He gives a quick spin as he prepares to move to the next slide. "Now for our next proposal, I have for you a tragedy in the making…"
The muted sounds of the medical ward were familiar to Clove as she sat in the stiff backed chair beside her sister's bed. The faint and horrifically familiar hum of machinery made a symphony that she hoped her sister couldn't hear in her dreams. Cassia lay in the bed in a tangle of wires and tubes. Her cybernetic arm lay motionless, catching the overhead light and casting reflections onto the too white walls.
Clove held her hands together tightly in her lap, knuckles white from the pressure. She heard the words that Doctor Quack had told her hours early bouncing within her head. "The cybernetics were failing her. The strain on her body is increasing. I am sorry…"
She did not cry. She had no more tears to shed really. Cassia, her sister, looked so small in that bed. She couldn't count the number of hospital beds she had seen Cassia in, but she had never looked so small, so defeated before.
The monitors beeped as she unclasped her hands, brushing away some of the hair covering Cassia's face. It was damp with sweat, a parting gift from the fever she had gone through hours ago, Clove holding her sister's hand through the whole thing.
"I'm sorry…" She whispers, knowing no one, not even her sister can hear her. "I… I was supposed to keep you safe. I… We were supposed to get you fixed and run away…"
She doubles over, a sob breaking through her facade as she holds onto her sister's hand. She had done everything in the hopes of saving her sister, sold both of their souls to a tyrant for the mechanical parts that without the help of that tyrant weren't even saving her from the disease that they tried to out run to begin with. To keep her sister alive.
But Cassia wasn't alive. At least not in the way she deserved to be. The machines she was hooked up to were stopping her from dying, but they didn't let her live. They didn't bring back her laughter, her dumb jokes, they simply… held her here.
Cassia stirred slightly, a faint moan escaping her lips, and Clove's heart leapt to her throat. She reached out, her fingers holding tight to Cassia's hand.
"I'm here," she whispered, though she wasn't sure Cassia could hear her. "I'll always be here."
The promise felt empty, but it was all she had left. All she could offer as the beeping continued its steady rhythm, counting down moments she couldn't bear to lose.
"Clove and Cassia the Pronghorns, former leaders of an armed force that took the majority of a continent in your name," Starline says, an image of two horned mobians, one in a hospital bed and partially cybernetic as the other sat beside her, deep bags under her eyes.
"Both are currently in Restoration territory as you can see that Cassia herself suffers from a disease that the doctors have not been able to cure."
Clove The Pronghorn
Experienced General
Shrewd Diplomat
Doesn't Want Her Sister To Die
"A nice sob story," you say, studying the cybernetics in the image. "But why would I want to bring someone with an active disease on board? I am looking for healthy minions Starline, warm bodies to deal with problems."
"Ah because from what I have been able to discover, Clove herself is the prize. The Restoration has taken in many refugees and a sort of "Amnesty" is being allowed for those from other worlds and she divulged her sister apparently couldn't be fixed by their version of you sir."
You straighten up in your chair, narrowing your eyes. "I am sure I misheard you Starline, did you just tell me there was a version of me that couldn't handle a simple disease? I am sure I must have something completely moronic in my ear, because that couldn't have been right."
"Unfortunately you did not mishear," The platypus shakes his head. "These Pronghorn sisters both claim that their version of Dr. Eggman couldn't cure Cassia even when they took an entire continent in his name."
"Well now… that just wouldn't do at all." You murmur to yourself, looking at the women. "A good find Starline, but continue with the show. We can circle back to them later if need be."
"Understood Sir. If we must proceed to the next Minion, I'm glad to inform you that this one is gonna be…familiar to you." With a click of the button, a new slide appears, showing a Figure Eggman was acquainted with.
"CRAP CRAP CRAP CRAP"
The explosion behind him nearly knocked him off feat as he ran towards the Marvelous Queen, his lovely hoverbike that just seemed too dang far away!
"He's over here!" one of the voices yelled behind him.
"No I'm not!" he yelled back, pulling his laser pistol from his holster and, not turning around or stopping his sprint forward, fired towards the voice.
The pained scream he heard made him smirk as he sprinted forward. "And if any of your buddies think I am here, you tell them how that feels!"
Jumping onto his bike and slamming the key in, the engine roars to life just as he hears treads beginning to chew into the earth behind him. Why in the world did they bring a tank for him?! He wasn't one of them Black Arms monsters, he was just a guy trying to make a dishonest day's work!
The Queen roared to life and he floored it, roaring forward as the ground where he had been exploded, his ears ringing from the explosion of the shell hitting the earth.
As he pulled upward he didn't allow himself to relax, not until he was ten minutes away from the ruins he had plundered. He'd need to thank Bean for getting him that lead on this place.
Parking the bike in the air, he rummaged into his hammerspace pack before pulling out the prize he had just stolen from underneath The Empire's nose.
The lance gleamed blue in the light of the sun, its tip seemingly almost crystalline blue.
"Wonder who's gonna be paying me the most for this little beaut?"
"Nack the Weasel aka Fang the Sniper, known mercenary and thief." Starline shows a familiar face, the purple mug of the weasel appearing on the screen as he leaned against his hoverbike. The photo looked posed, you have to wonder if Nack took this for networking. "You don't need me to tell you much about Nack considering you've hired him in the past."
Nack The Sniper (Power/Trickery Hero)
Crack Shot
Treasure Hound
Money Minded
"Yes I have," you nod and give Starline a look. "And from what I remember he's a fine shot but not the most effective. Sure he can treasure hunt well enough, but I don't particularly remember him winning me any fights or treasures Starline."
"All of this is true," he concedes but holds up a finger, "but that was the past and I have managed to find that our friend Nack here recently made a run into Empire territory and raided an ancient ruin of theres and he now claims to have quite the prize. If we were to acquire his services, we'd be claiming first dibs on the item as it were."
"Hmmm…" you lean back, tenting your fingers in thought. Gaining insight into The Empire would be ideal, how much a relic from the past would give you though, you're unsure.
"Food for thought I suppose." You allow, motioning forward. "Who else have you got?"
"This one is a bit more…unusual, compared to the other ones, if you can believe it." Starline comments happily as a new slide appears.
Hmmph. A train, eh? It had been awhile since you were on one. But still, there was little reason to not use it, you, the brilliant Dr. Starline, thought. It was cheap too.
Apparently with the world so thoroughly out of whack, train companies and other such transports had little respite, as travel was seen as rather dangerous even short distances.
Hmmph. Not that it mattered much to you, as long as it got you around as you searched for worthy minions for your idol.
Soon, the salted peanuts you ordered arrived, to your delight. It was a simple snack, but a well-deserved one for all your hard work.
As you opened your treat's bag, you were confused. On top of the peanuts was… a note?
Strange. And quite irritating. You decided to humor whatever prankster did this on a whim… and you were happy you did.
'The Conductor would like a word. Long live Dr. Eggman.'
You looked around for who delivered it, before remembering this train apparently had an AI you ordered from….
Basil The Conductor/The Mirage Express (Logistics Hero)
An Experienced Conductor
Rather Affable
Together Forever… for Better or Worse
"...A train conductor? Really Starline? I am not running a travel company here!" You scoff.
Starline holds his hands up placatingly.
"I am well aware, sir. But Similarly to Honey, the conductor is a good front man for the Empire, being rather Affable. I talked to the man. He has some classic rambling old man energy, but he is likable enough. Besides, it's less him and more his current transport."
You are about to scold Starline for thinking some random vehicle mattered when you double checked and blinked in shock.
"The Mirage Express? I wondered what became of that… hmm. I did design it with extra processing power to accommodate multiple guests at once. That level of multitasking could be very useful to me. Besides, if I ever need to go somewhere without flying, I'd rather do it in style. Next potential lackey, Starline."
"As you command." With no fanfare this time, a new slide appears. "This next individual seems to have a close connection to the Eggman Empire, Sir."
"Thank you Jeremy," she did her best to get a smile in her tone, knowing the mask she wore gave her an air of menace that she had to work through. Her cybernetics made people even more nervous. "I'll be sure to let the chief mechanic know what's going on."
The bear mobian gave her a grin and went back to his group as she wrote down the recon information his squad had managed to bring back from the borders of Restoration territory.
Which was copied from the tablet she was working on to the hidden server she had set up.
You don't get rid of Robotnik. Sure you can defeat him, set him back, you can even seemingly kill him and scatter his atoms across the universe. Nephthys had seen all of those happen on her own world and she had learned that truly and honestly, the only constant of the universe was that He Always Comes Back.
A shiver runs down her spine as she moves towards the foundry, the heart of The Restoration's effort in fighting back the Zavok's forces, The Black Arms, and the invading empire. She greeted the orangutan and went through the motions, making sure to up the number of weapons asked for by a tiny amount. After her weeks of excellent service, they couldn't afford to keep as close an eye on her anymore.
Which she knew. All the while she was watched she made sure to be the model survivor, painting a picture of the horrors that happened in Midestra but of her calming influence, how she did her best to keep everything civil and contained. After all, the best lies you can feed a foe are the truth.
Because she did, she kept Midestra under control, just enough conflict and push back to keep the doctor's eyes off her people without being so calm that there was no need to send food and resources, some of which could conveniently go missing to feed the people.
There was no way of stopping Eggman, no true way to keep him from coming back. The best you can do is shelter those you can from the worst of what he does.
"Nephthys the Vulture," the picture starline brings up, shows a female vulture mobian in a striking mask and cape combination, something that is quite close to some of your own work. "Another of the former 'Egg Bosses', from reports gathered she has nearly as impressive a record as the Pronghorn siblings, though she was apparently stymied from complete continental conquest by a group of rebels."
Nephthys The Vulture
Always Watching
Tactically Vulturous
Fatalistically Faithful
"Well no one but myself can be perfect," you muse as you look through the photos. "What can you tell me about the equipment she is wearing Starline?"
"Well the mask itself I have not discovered to have any purpose beyond hiding the mechanization she apparently took while in your service." Starline moves to the next slide, showing an almost complete cyberized face with only her eyes being non-mechanical. "The cape however seems to allow her some form of flight or an extreme glide."
"I don't need more combat units Starline," you say absently, running a finger along the circuitry lines on the vulture's face, mapping out their purpose as you do so. "But you said she was another of those 'Egg Bosses', so a tactician may be useful…"
You set the tablet down and look at Starline. "Interesting… very interesting…" You turn to look at Starline again. "I can't believe I'm saying this but I'm somewhat curious to see who you show next." You stare at him impatiently.
As the new slide appeared, Starline snapped his fingers. "While this one might seem similar to a few other minions, there's potential in her, I'm sure."
The empire soldier quickly hid between some houses as he ran away in sheer fright. He couldn't believe this! An entire squad and 2 tanks, completely taken out by 1 person?! How was that possible?
When Prince Maximilian declared that they needed to take this land for the Empire, he and his fellow soldiers were ready to lay down his life for the glory of the Empire…
It seemed so simple, these strange furry creatures didn't seem to pose much of a challenge at first, after less than 2 hours, they had taken the town over and secured all hostages.
That's when she appeared.
A tanned woman with whitish hair, carrying only a gun and nothing else. No one took her as a threat, even when she ran towards the tank.
That was a mistake, they should all have opened fire the moment she revealed herself. Now it was too late.
It all happened so fast! Quickly disarming all of them and then facing alone against a tank? If he hadn't watched with his own eyes, he wouldn't have believed how she destroyed it with ease.
To hell with the Invasion, he didn't want to face freaks of nature!
Canaan (Power/Heart Hero)
Experienced combatant.
Mercenary Attitude. Loyalty can be bought at the right price.
Seems to possess a strange ocular ability?
Is in search of someone. Possible way to keep her loyal.
"While there is not as much info as I would like about her. Canaan seems to be a professional Mercenary, taking any jobs that catch her interest. "Starline comments as you watch the picture of the white haired, tanned woman. "Her reputation speaks for herself though. I have proof that she alone has managed to face several squads of the Empire, Black Arms and even your Super Badniks, Sir. And won against them single handedly. Such skill can only be an asset for your cause!"
"Yes, as long as I can keep paying her right?" You made a dismissing motion. "Eh, not sure she is worth the pay. Not sure if you have realized, but we are not exactly flushed with resources Starline. I'm not going to spend what little we have hiring a single person that may betray me for a higher paycheck." You punch the table in annoyance.
"Exactly my thought Sir! So I continued searching and found that she was interested in locating a person. Some blonde-haired girl called Maria."
That name…it sends shivers down your spine; you don't know why? "Come again?"
"She seems so focused on locating her, everywhere she goes she asks for clues about her. If we can make it seem as if we are her only way to locate this Maria, we can easily slot her as a useful minion!" Starline comments excitedly.
A blonde person called Maria… It might be a coincidence but with this strange new world was there a chance she was back? No way, but still, you needed to know…
"I will…take her into consideration…"
"Excellent Sir! And for our final candidate, I have quite a tragic, but potential minion, ripe for use!" Another click as a new slide appears.
You were a great Villain, once upon a time. Jungle Island's greatest threat! You had grand schemes, a perfect shot to gain admiration and power, crushing your enemies!
And then that FOOL defeated you!
It wasn't fair! You had the perfect plan! You would distract AiAi and his foolish friends with a false flag operation, and while they were running around like chickens with their heads chopped off, you would destroy them slowly but surely by using your machines to make every banana on the island taste like curry! The perfect plan!
"So how!? How did I lose!?" You ranted to the bartender, eating another banana.
"I don't know, pal. Sounds rough." The man said, clearly not caring that much. You supposed it didn't help that you brought your own food and had gotten a single free water.
Why pay when you could extend the water out? You were quite the evil genius!
Not genius enough though…
You groaned and rested your head on the bar. Maybe you should have been a carpenter… or fought Plumbers for damsels!
…Naw that idea was stupid.
Dr. Bad-Boon (Brain/Logistics Hero)
Prone to Eccentric but Actually Decent Plans!
Good with Machines!
Currently Depressed!
"Why would I need such an individual when I am superior at such endeavors related to machinery?" You raise an eyebrow.
"Well sir, he is currently completely depressed. From what I can gather in my research and from my own knowledge, those who have suffered great losses, as he currently has, are easily molded if you make them feel like winners. And he is a decent planner, too. Nowhere near your level, of course, but could be useful if you need a second head to bounce ideas off of and no one else is available."
"Hmmm.. has potential I suppose."
"Glad you found my findings interesting Sir!" Starline said excitedly. "With that, my presentation comes to an end." Another click an…
"...Didn't you say that was the last minion?" You stare at the image of a…peculiar man.
GORO MAJIMA! (Power/Trickery Hero)
Veteran of Combat!!!
Majima Everywhere!!!
Expert at Construction Projects!
"I don't know how it appeared there, Sir!" Starline looks freaked out. "Did someone mess with my Presentation?!" He asks enraged. "I'm so sorry for this, Doctor, let's just forget about the last-"
"No…" You cut off Starline, as you apprise the image. "For some reason, I think this person might have…some potential.
"If you are sure…" Starline comments in an uncertain tone.
"You have given me several options to consider…." You stroke your mustache as you mentally review all the options so far, all of them were useful to you in a way or another. And while a part of you wanted to enlist all of them at once, your current state of affairs made it clear it was best to only approach one right now…but who?
"You have done a well done job Starline…Make sure you have enough rest. I will require your services again soon." You don't wait to hear the platypus excited comments, you calmly exit the room as you mind wandered thinking of what possible candidate could work as the ideal minion right now…
QMS NOTE:
Congratulations! As you have passed the 3rd tier in the Minions Action, you have quite a pool of hero Units to Pick from!
Currently, you are only able to recruit one of them now. On following turns, you can take a Heart Action and if you pass the respective DC you will be able to hire the desired minion.
Each hero unit chosen has their own drives, unlike your current hero units that are loyal to eggman at such a high level, you will need to balance using them while trying to increase their opinion of our lovable mad scientist. Their drives will be the key to that, as long as Eggman helps them accomplish them, you can expect the hero unit to become more and more loyal.
WARNING: Some of these heroes are time limited, we won't tell you which or for how long they will be available for recruitment, but be aware that they might leave Green Hills soon, or joining with another faction is a definite possibility, and your chances to recruit them will be lost.
So make sure to use this free pick to get whoever you want!
FOR THIS VOTE, THERE WILL BE A 12 HOUR MORATORIUM.
The sound of the hospital cut out too swiftly. That was Clove's first clue.
Ingrained instincts broke through the fear, The Pronghorn reaching for the weapon she no longer carried as she scanned the area for threats, eyes red from tears unshed darting towards the door.
"Do you think I'd be so plain as to walk through the door?"
She feels bile rising in her throat as she hears that voice, a voice she still hears in her darker nightmares and when she looks into the mirror. Turning slowly, as if the longer she took to see him, the less likely he would be there, she turned to behold The Devil.
Doctor Eggman stood towering on the other side of Cassia's bed, a platypus and a red rift open behind him. Holding some device in one hand that he was seemingly scanning her with, making a noise of interest as he looked at the screen with some interest.
She didn't know where the roar came from as she launched herself at him, the man who had doomed the two of them to eternal service in exchange for her sister's life. All she knew is there was nothing left to lose at this point, why not try and extract some small vengeance?
He did not even look at her as the cold metallic grip locked around her neck, choking her and stopping her advance. Metal Sonic held her throat in one hand, the other raised and wagging a finger at her in denial, a mocking look in its metallic eyes.
Only after he had scanned her from antler to hoof did the doctor look at her.
[Shattered Memories roll: 37]
There is a flash of something in his eyes as he focuses on Clove but it is gone just as quickly.
"Now Clove, is that anyway to treat the person who is going to save your sister?"
Her fingers pry at the unyielding metallic grip holding her, desperate to get your hands on the lying devil in front of you.
"You bastard! You promised me you'd save her, that these machines would keep her healthy as long as I served! I gave everything to-"
He interrupts her with a casual dismissal of his hand.
"Yes yes, I have been told what has happened between you and that other version of myself and that is why I am here. It offends me that there was supposedly a problem as simple as a disease that some variant of myself couldn't fix. I see why he used it to keep you in line, but the mere idea of my genius not being enough to solve this problem is not something I can allow to stand."
He steps up to her, towering over her as she is held in the grip of one of his machines of death and leans down to look her in the eyes.
"I will cure her Clove the Pronghorn." He tells her, a tone she had never heard from him before. "I will cure her not out of some altruism or because some variant from a far flung universe did so, but simply because *I* can."
He straightens to his full height, the fluorescent hospital lights drawing him stark against the too clean walls of the hospital.
"What will happen to her afterward is for you to decide. Will she be eaten by The Black Arms? Brought to one of The Empire's work camps? Have her limbs torn off by Zavok and his Zeti?"
"Or will she live her life well in The Eggman Empire?" He turns his back to her, walking towards the still open portal. "I suppose that is up to you now isn't it Clove. Metal, drop her."
Her throat is released and the mechanical doppelganger instead moves to the bed of her sister, bringing the entire hospital bed and all of the equipment through the portal.
The platypus gives her a look she can't describe and doesn't care for.
She pushes herself up and stares as he walks through the portal.
She had paid the devil his due before and lost everything for it. With nothing left to lose the devil she knew had returned and offered her everything once more, all she had to do was follow him again.
It was never really a choice.
(Line Break)
Clove The Pronghorn has become a Hero Unit! Her sister Cassia is deathly ill and if you don't move quickly she may pass and Clove wouldn't be happy about that!
Oh ho ho? It seems as if Zavok suffered quite the loss against The Empire's forces here. The foolish Zeti sent that lumbering oaf Zomom against them with an army of my badniks as backing and he couldn't even manage to keep the ground they took from me!
My badniks performed admirably, of course they did. I made them, but Zomom is no commander. He was simply lumbering forward smashing into their armored line and admittedly doing a lot of damage, but that was before the same woman who managed to defeat Metal appeared.
The battle between the lumbering Zeti and the woman wasn't one. Her lance pierced into the Zeti and I must say, the spray of his injury was an impressive feat. Zavok managed to pull back his pudgy packmate by sacrificing many of my badniks and much territory.
Result: Zavok loses ground to The Empire and Zomom is wounded, being unavailable until he is healed.
Face The Black Arms Invaders
DC: Contested By Black Arms
??? + ??? = 111
Success!
Seems that Zavok has taken matters unto his own hands regarding the Black Arms. I saw him taking a huge hoard of my Badniks alongside one of his lackeys. Towards the territory under the Aliens Command.
He was able to come victorious from that engagement. But it was really surprising to see who was leading the opposition…
Reinforce Badnik Units Across Green hill
DC: 40/80/120
??? + ??? = 80
Success
That blasted Zeti has brought even more of my brilliant creations onto the fields of war, a number of Super Badniks being led by Zik to fields of combat where the number of regular badniks were struggling.
The reinforcements appear to be keeping things in a stalemate between Zavok, The Restoration, and G.U.N. but one has to wonder exactly how long such a state can last.
THE BLACK ARMS (Shadow)
Face Zavok and Try To Expand Territory
DC: Contested By Zavok
??? + ??? = 94
Failure
When your drones reported you of Black Arms's activity you decided to stop your current task and observe the current engagement against Zavok. With how high of a thread the Black Arms were, any information you could gather could be invaluable.
You were not ready for what your footage revealed to you…
It was Shadow, the one leading the damn aliens!
Just what in Chaos was going on?! Why did that rat decide to join forces with Blad Doom? Was this caused by the Shattering?
Whatever the reason was, Shadow was now an ally of Black Doom, and an obstacle to remove him once and for all.
Luckily, it seemed that Zavok recognized too, the threat the alien invaders were and focused the bulk of his forces on stopping Shadow's advance.
He and one of his minions engaged the Ultimate Lifeform and Managed to keep him from advancing and taking more territory.
Results: Shadow the Hedgehog and the Black Arms don't manage to spread further inot Green Hills. But didn't sustain any significant losses.
Search For The Blue Chaos Emerald
DC150/200
??? + ??? = 106
Failure
Starline did not tell me that Shadow was specifically looking for the emerald he had managed to find! The Ultimate Life Form is searching up and down the Green Hills, towns not being destroyed as much as completely flipped over as he searches for us and the Chaos Emerald we have. He's already managed to cover a worrying amount of ground…
It may be worth looking into either removing The Black Arms force from The Green Hills quickly or finding some way to distract Shadow, before something unfortunate for me happens.
Results: Shadow doesn't find the Emerald. DC for "Search For The Blue Chaos Emerald" is reduced for next turn,
THE EMPIRE (Maximilian)
Fight On The Front
DC: Contested by Zavok
??? + ??? = 136
Great Success!
As glad as you were for Zavok's losses during the fight against the Empire, this does mean that those technologically inferior foes has managed to establish a presence properly in Green Hills!
Dammit All! What's the point of plotting how to take my Empire back from the Zeti if he is doing such a poor Job handling it?!
The Empire has quickly but surely established a proper perimeter, fortying it well enough at a speed I didn't consider capable.
I suppose the time for dealing with the Empire will come sooner than expected.
Results: Empire has taken territory from Green Hills! (Currently control 5% of it, taken from Zavok)
Create More "Work Camps" DC 60
??? + ??? = 133
Critical Success!
With the expansion into Green Hills. The Empire didn't take long to make themselves home I see. They quickly started making for of their famous "Work Camps", where several of their citizens and some captives from Green Hills are forced to work there…
They even focused on creating…rails for some type of advanced Train to move in the area? You don't understand why they would do that but it seems they are fortifying their position well enough.
Still, this might present an opportunity for you. Those camps surely hold several resources that you can "Liberate" from the Empire for your own use!
Results: The Empire established several Work Camps and established a railway system for the Equus to move through their territory in Green Hills! Action to assault or raid the Work Camps unlocked!
THE RESTORATION (Jewel)
Deal With Local Badniks
DC:60/100
??? + ??? - 10 (Herding Cats) = 83
Success!
A large number of The Restoration forces were busy with other fronts but the Lemur woman that had previously been seen led a force against a number of my stolen badniks. Lead may be a strong word considering that her "orders" were simply to smash them as she leapt forward, her tail forming into a fist that crushed several egg pawns in a single blow.
She and her forces ended up in a stalemate when Zik arrived on the battlefield to add several Super Badniks to the forces, but they have not lost ground to the Zeti as of yet.
Reassure The Public
DC: The Higher The Better
??? + ??? - 10 (Herding Cats) = 84
Great Success!
Wait, I recognize that animal! That's the blasted wolf that was beside Sonic's side when they destroyed my Final Death Egg Mech during The War! The same one that managed to break Sonic free of the prison I had him in!
Oh of course the simpering public ate up the reassuring words of The Rookie, even as several kapukapus had to be herded off the stage. *Sigh* I suppose it is better for the public to be of a positive disposition while they are fighting all of my foes. It will make them all fight harder.
Reach Out To Gun
DC:40
??? + ??? - 10 (Herding Cats) = 122
Critical Success!
The Restoration has put out a press statement that they have formalized bonds between themselves and The Guardian Unit of Nations. Announcing joint collaboration projects and patrols starting within the following weeks.
Feh, G.U.N. is so completely incompetent they need to form such tight knit bonds with a civilian peacekeeping organization turned paramilitary once more. This may however put a damper on any plans you had of reaching out to either faction…
Result: The Restoration and G.U.N have entered into a collaborative effort against Zavok, The Black Arms, and The Empire and will have a free collaboration next turn. DC for reaching out to both factions increased.
G.U.N (Commander Abraham Tower)
Engage Badnik Presence
DC:60/100
??? + ??? = 65
Bare Success!
I understand that I should take less pleasure in my stolen badniks fighting with G.U.N. but I do so love watching "conventional military" come undone against my mechanical forces! The forces of G.U.N would have completely lost the skirmish against my badniks if Agent Topaz had not shown some truly impressive acrobatics to land onto the back of the Eggrobo commanding them and destroying it.
They barely managed to hang on as it was against the regular badniks, the reinforcement of Super Badniks is straining them heavily. One more good push and Zavok's forces will be taking territory from them. Oh no.
Anyway.
Fortify Perimeters
50/100
??? + ??? + 5 (Omake Bonus) = 40
Bare Failure!
It seems G.U.N. has not had much luck in fortifying their territory with the three pronged assault from all sides. They don't have much of a perimeter at all so far, the buffoons almost managing to damage what few defenses they actually had but a timely bit of intervention prevented any irreparable damage from being done.
Still thought, it's all government work level of building code anyway.
Develop New Weapons
DC: 70
??? + ??? = 77
Bare Success!
Hmmm… These Upgrades to the Gun Beetles nag at your mind. They feel vaguely familiar.
But bah! It matters little to you what GUN does with its time, for now at least.
They also seem to have slightly better guns (the weapon, not the organization itself… they need a better name if you do say so yourself) with slightly better firepower, as the Black Arms can attest.
ANGEL ISLAND (Knuckles)
Try to Calm Refugees
??? + ??? = 63
Success
It seems a number of civilians have escaped from the wars below by fleeing to the floating Angel Island. But put a number of panicking civilians on a small enough space and things are bound to get hectic and dangerous.
It seems as if that foolish echidna found someone to do some actual thinking, as a man stepped up to speak to the panicking animals about how this was when they needed to come together and work as one and all of the usual sentimental nonsense. It seemed to have the desired effect however as things have not quite boiled over.
Secure The Master Emerald
DC: The Higher The Better
??? + ??? = ???
Success
Reports you've managed to get from the floating island show that with the chaos happening on the surface below, Knuckles has taken a personal interest in making sure the Master Emerald is not drawn into the conflict.
You were not able to find out exactly what he has done, but you're sure that it won't be as simple as flying over with the Egg Mobile to grab it from its resting place anymore.
CAPTAIN METAL
Looking For Treasure
1 + ??? = ???
Critical Fai-
LUCKY!
Bare Failure
It seems Captain Metal's first mate embarrassed him in port today, getting stuck upside down in a garbage can as he pathetically cried out his own name.
What an odd robot.
Pressgang Some New Crew
DC: 60
??? + ??? = 66
Bare Success
It seems when the "Good Captain" made port last he had managed to gain a new member to his crew, an absolute unit of a unit named Black Bot who was a little too into the whole pirate schtick that Captain Metal seems to have going, but the other pirates of the crew seemed to enjoy it.
How useful the large tub of lugnuts will be, only time will tell I suppose.
???
Open The White Park Chao Racing Circuit
DC: 60
??? + ??? = 93
Success!
Stone has reported flyers being hung through the town around the Mean Bean Machine for a Chao Racing Circuit opening and apparently this is not the only town to have them posted. There has been a lot of murmuring from the public that now isn't such a time for such frivolities, but Stone has heard even more enjoying the "stiff upper lip" approach and not letting business or enterprise die just because of the terrible times.
Any group collecting a large amount of chaos spawn, even for something as innocuous as a simple sporting contest, may be something to look into in the future when I have my badniks back.
INDEPENDANTS
Chaotix
Go Around Helping/Reassuring People
DC: The Higher The Better
??? + ??? = 105
Great Success!
The Chaotix have been out and about, helping with resettling people displaced from The Shattering and generally trying to keep spirits up during these hectic times. I personally find him distastefully cheerful, but Charmy Bee has been at the front of these efforts, being his usual nauseatingly sweet self.
They have been roaming from settlement to settlement and generally being a stabilizing influence. Good, only *I* i am allowed to be the one that disrupts the lives of these people.
Cream The Rabbit (?)
Search For Supplies To Help Someone Who's Hurt
DC: 75
??? + ??? = 115
Great Success!
While Starline was out in the city, he actually saw the girl and her mother going into various machine shops and tech shops. None of what they left those stores with would be used for any domestic or home repairs, nor would they be parts compatible with any of my machines.
Curious, neither Cream nor her mother are mechanics in any sense of the word, what could be happening in the Rabbit household?
???
Engage Badnik Forces: 50/100
??? + ??? = 107
Great Success!
From reports you have heard while many of the factions have been barely managing to hold their own against your stolen badniks, reports of many of the Super Badniks being taken out before they can reach the frontline have been surfacing. Whether it be an attack on The Restoration forces that would have been a crushing defeat if the Egg Hammers had reached the front walls, or G.U.N. almost losing an entire platoon to one of your Hey Ho's, an unseen assailant has continuously been there defending those fighting against Zavok's stolen forces.
CURRENT FACTION PRESENCE IN GREEN HILLS:
Zavok: 55%
GUN: 10%
The Restoration: 25%
Black Arms: 5%
The Empire: 5%
QMS Note:
Kingster: Yeah.. Shadow is currently with the Black Arms, you guys have been somewhat right when you guessed that other sonic characters were dealing with their variants mixed in.Shadow unfortunately got a bad hand.
"An auction you say?" You, the one and only Dr. Eggman stares at the horrible drawn poster announcing the sale of an ancient Relic and other artifacts coming from the Empire, courtesy of "The Great Treasure Hunter NACK!!!" "I admit to be somewhat curious as to why you are showing me this Starline?" You ask the Platypus who had just arrived and gave you this.
While the chance of studying the Relic mildly interested you, you had more pressing matters to deal with. Your plans for your grand return needed to be set in motion, finding a way to keep that two faced traitor Hedgehog off your trail, and finally reclaim your Empire from the Zeti were more important matters than one lousy relic you could probably steal later.
"But Sir, I know you informed me that you were not interested in the relic." Starline starts explaining, somehow thinking that your chosen course of action was the wrong one. Pfft, you cannot believe this fool. "But think about it, with the Empire knocking at our doors, they might be a more pressing threat than expected. If we aren't careful, they might be able to deal with Zavok and his cronies before we are ready to move! Finding as much information about them is vital to be able to formulate efficient countermeasures!" He quickly fires off, equally worried and stressed.
You could *somewhat* understand why your young admirer was this preoccupied. You were certainly surprised by how hard Zavok was pushed this last month. He obviously wasn't you nor had even a fraction of your potential but still! The Zeti had access to all the resources of your Empire! He was squandering their potential and losing ground at an alarming rate. That just cemented your desires to hurry along your plans and take back what was yours!!!
"Still, you might have a point that dealing with the other factions might be a priority…" You certainly didn't expect Shadow the Hedgehog to ally again with Black Doom, nor for the Empire to be able to defeat your badniks and push inside Green Hill so easily. "Their threat levels might be higher than I calculated…" You sigh, there were too many enemies to take into account of. You will never admit it out loud, but you preferred it when it was only Sonic and his group of friends that you had to deal with.
"When will the Auction occur, Starline?" You ask the young scientist, who perks up at the question.
"In a month sir! The place where the Auction will take place is in some shady warehouse near the docks!" Starline says quickly. "We can either gather enough money to bid for the relic or even do a good old smash and grab!"
"...I will consider it." You decide to delay for a moment how you will approach it, you still have enough time to change your mind about going to that place.
"Call the others, it's time to set some plans into motion once more." You say with a determined tone, as you plan this month's actions.
"Right away, Sir!!!"
NEXT TURN (Turn 3) THE TIME LIMITED MINI ADVENTURE: "Nack's Grand, Amazing Auction!!!" Will take place, you have unlocked some actions to gather enough funds for in case you want to try bidding for the Relic, if not, you can always organize a way to crash the Party!!! Of course, not going is always an option!
Nack is no longer available to be hired!
Assets;
1 hidden base
1 public base (Mean Bean Machine)
1 Chaos Emerald (Blue one)
1 Egg Mobile
2 Income for Nack's Auction (From Stone's Coffee Shop)
25 Metal Units.
You guys have 1 action available in each category.
Cubot and Orbot can be assigned to a Logistics action that doesn't count for the cap.
Dr. Eggman can pick 4 Personals per turn. Other hero units can pick only 1 per turn,
Power
Clear nearby area from Zavok's forces. DC:30/60
Recently, a concerning number of Badniks under the control of Zavok have been roaming near the area that you're using as a hideout. You still can't believe that idiot dared to take control of your Badniks! Time to smash them!
Reward: Presence of Zavok's minions around the area is reduced. Gain Metal from the Badnik Scraps. Passing 2nd Tier means that Zavok doesn't have any clue of what happened/doesn't get suspicious.
Cannot be taken with Quietly Retake Your Badniks
Note: This action lowers the DC of Zavok's Base Raid
Assault Empire 'Work Camp' DC: 50
Well The Empire certainly didn't take much time to set up one of their 'Work Camps' in their newly claimed territory. But when a foe makes a mistake in rushing construction and leaving themselves open to be raided for all the wonderful supplies they brought, who am I to miss an opportunity such as that? Smash the camp, steal all the supplies, and get a nice Infusion of Metal.
Reward: Empire 'Work Camp' destroyed, gaining Metal points, resources(Including Money For Nack's auction), and potentially information.
Note: This action lowers the DC of The Empire Base Raid
Build Death Egg Robot DC80 (CANT TAKE THIS ACTION, NOT ENOUGH METAL!)
Ah one of your first doomsday weapons, it brings back such fond memories of trying to crush that blasted hedgehog. Not quite as powerful as some of the later models you would make, but the Death Egg Robot is a twenty foot tall titan of destruction, powerful enough to crush those underfoot and has rocket propelled spike fists! Such a brilliant design
Metal Cost: 125
Reward: The Death Egg Robot MK1 has been rebuilt
Upgrade Metal Sonic DC: 40/60/80/100/120/140 (CANT TAKE THIS ACTION, NOT ENOUGH METAL!)
While Metal Sonic is currently fine as he is, of course, there is always room for improvement. You can still outfit him with more upgrades to make him an even better Sonic
reward: Each tier passed gives an Upgrade point to use for Metal Sonic:
Metal Cost: 30
Note: Metal Sonic cannot be assigned to this action.
[ ] Plasma Pulse: Can be used once per battle. Metal skips his turn and next turn he gets a +20 bonus to all combat rolls until the fight is over. (1 Point)
[ ]Ring Spark: Once per battle, Metal Gains a +10 to combat rolls and can attack all enemies nearby, but loses 1 life/Hp after use. (1 Point)
[ ] Install Leadership Module: changes Metal Mano focused for Badnik Commander. +5 To Logistics and Heart. Gives Minor Version of Badnik Commander. (3 Upgrade Points)
Upgrade Rusty Rose: DC: 40/70/100/130. (CANT TAKE THIS ACTION, NOT ENOUGH METAL!)
Now that you have been able to calmly look over all the data you collected for Rusty Rose, you are certain you can do a better job than those fools in the Chaos Council and make her a proper killer robot!
Reward: Each tier passed gives +2 upgrade points to use.
Metal Cost: 50
Note: Rusty Rose cannot be assigned to this action.
[ ] Rusty Hammer: +5 to Combat rolls (1 Point)
[ ] Upgraded Database: +5 to Brains (1 Point)
[ ] Adaptive Combat Protocol: Increase Power +5. Power stat +5 Bonus against enemies Rusty has faced before. (2 Points)
[ ] Install Leadership Module: +5 To Logistics and Heart. Gives Minor Version of Badnik Commander. (2 Upgrade Points)
[ ] Personality Matrix Upgrade: +10 to Heart stat (3 Points)
Launch Attack Zavok's Base DC:175 (Actions can be taken to reduce DC)
That Zeti dares wield your own weapons and robots against you! And he dare do so quite effectively from a very well protected base! This shall not stand, this shall not stand so swears Ivo Robotnik! Build up your own forces again and show that magical menace what the might of true genius brings!
Reward: Begins assault on Zabok's base of operations with the possibility of defeating and capturing him, restoring the Green Hill Zone to your control.
Steal The Master Emerald DC:135
...This might not be the time for this but blast it all if that emerald is not the largest source of Chaos Energy on the planet! If I can manage to get the emerald back to base, power and resource management will be a thing of the past!
Reward: Begins Attack on Angel Island with the possibility of stealing The Master Emerald
Launch Attack On Black Arms Base DC175 (Actions can be taken to reduce this DC)
Black Doom has a small foothold in the Green Hill Zone but I am loath to let those disgusting creatures hold even a shred of what will become Eggmanland! Build up your own forces again and show those man-eating aliens what the might of the Eggman empire is!
Reward: Begins assault on Black Arms base of operations with the possibility of removing them entirely from the Green Hill Zone.
Launch Attack on GUN DC:120 (Actions can be taken to reduce this DC)
They're back!? These fools are like cockroaches. No matter. You will just put them in their place again. You did it once before, after all.
Reward: Begin assault on GUN bases, possibility to destroy GUN completely... Again.
Launch Attack On The Restoration DC:150 (Actions can be taken to reduce this DC)
"The Restoration". How adorable, they believe they can stop resisting and start restoring the world from me? I am the change this world needs and these animals need to understand that! Let's see if I can't make the lesson stick this time.
Reward: Begins assault on The Restoration base of operations with possibility of destroying them entirely and taking prisoners and supplies.
Launch Attack On The Empire DC: 170 (Actions can be taken to reduce this DC)
The Empire has managed to get a foothold into The Green Hill Zone and they don't seem too eager to leave considering how quickly they have fortified their foothold. They seem to have also brought the same woman who fought Shadow and Metal to make sure the ground is kept, but little matter. This is your land and you will show them what a *true* Empire looks like!
Reward: Begin assault on The Empire base, possibility of completely rebuffing them from Green Hill Zone, taking prisoners, and supplies.
Heart
Try To Make Contact With "Captain Metal". DC:60
There's been rumors of a pirate roaming the seas near Green Hill, who has some similarities to your greatest Creation. This intrigues you deeply…perhaps you could try to start talks with him? While revealing yourself too soon before you are ready could be risky, this may be an opportunity.
Reward: Make contact with Captain Metal, unlock new actions, chances for collaboration with Captain Metal.
Reach Out To The Restoration: DC:100
While you acknowledge that you were the cause of almost literally every problem the resistance and now "The Restoration" has faced, you have worked together with many of their members, begrudgingly, in the past. Perhaps they would be willing to work under the banner of the Eggman Empire once more, especially in light of this new and changed world.
Reward: The Restoration "joins the empire" and begins feeding supplies and information to Eggman.
Reach Out To G.U.N. For An Alliance DC115
It absolutely galls you to even consider teaming up with these military oafs, but considering at this point the sky is literally falling, sacrifices must be made. You can stomach working with them long enough to deal with The Black Arms, Zavok, and The Empire. Then… well you're sure that G.U.N. will be happy to return to the status quo.
Reward: The Eggman empire and G.U.N. enter a *very* temporary truce, sharing information and some resources.
Hire A New Minion
You loathe the fact you don't have your badnik facilities at full operation, so you must rely on the fleshy hands of others. Both disgusting and frustrating, but needs must. Send someone to collect them.
Reward: The selected minion is added to the hero roster.
Thunderbolt: DC Autopass
Roo: DC 40
Zobio & Zobiko: DC 30
Honey The Cat: DC 50
Tier 2
Piastol DC 40
Basil The Bernard- the Conductor DC 35
Tier 3
Goro Majima DC 70
Canaan DC 60
Dr. Bad-Boon DC 45
Nephthys the Vulture DC Autopass
Logistics
Build Some Badniks: DC:Autosuccess.
Metal Cost: Variable (select a badnik squad to build)
With most of your factories either taken over or destroyed, you are forced to create more of your precious Badniks by hand. Not that it is really an inconvenience! You can create a squad of them with your eyes closed and one hand tied behind your back!
It just will take time and resources to do. You need an efficient way to produce more of them but for now this will do.
Reward: Construct a squad of the selected badniks.
Make a Batch of Tarnished Blossoms DC:65
Thanks to Rusty Rose, an idea for a new type of Badnik just came to you! This will be a nice addition to your forces!
Metal Cost: 25
Reward: Made a Batch of Tarnished Blossoms, becomes available to build for free when taking the badnik building action
Build some Egg Drones: DC:70 (CANT TAKE THIS ACTION, NOT ENOUGH METAL!)
After your meeting with Agent Stone, somehow you came up with a design for a recon and scanner badnik Model...It's strange, it's like all the schematics are already in your brain just like that...Odd. Still you won't say no to this gift.
Metal Cost: 30
Reward: Batch of Egg Drones made. (Gives -10 malus to enemies trying to infiltrate your territory. and +5 To trickery Actions when Searching for stuff)
Brains
Locate "Evila's Swingin Report Show" Network Frequency DC:30
According to Starline, there's a TV station called Space Channel 5 that is constantly transmitting a news channel that relays the newest and most exciting content. Mmm... checking this "Evila" could allow you to find more of what's happening around the world. With your satellites down, your intel gathering has been... "limited".
Reward: Unlock Global Rivals report, Will be shown public things that other Kings around the world do that Space Channel 5 manages to broadcast.
Making Due With Less DC:70
You are a master and making sturdy and powerful machines of destruction and weapons of war! Unfortunately you are desperately low on resources right now and may need to make due with less than ideal robotic minions. But this is only for now! Your minions will be right again once you have regained your proper place!
Reward: Unlock Scrapnik versions of all non-super versions of your Badniks which can be made at half the Metal cost, but have no traits and this ability will disappear at the end of turn 5 or when you get to 300 Metal, whichever comes first, as Eggman has an image and ego to maintain.
Hack Into Zavoks data bases through the Egg-net. DC Contested Brain roll against Zavok + ???.
Seems like Zavok has taken control of all my systems, having configured the badniks to recognize him as supreme leader! I could try and send a virus to the current base he uses through the Eggnet to possibly snag control of the badniks, or at the very least, put viruses to cause trouble for him.
Still, it's a risk, if this goes wrong, they could have the means to trace me... No matter, I must do it!
Reward. Managed to hack into Zavok's database, unlocks options of how to debuff him, possibility to take control of badniks back to Eggman
WARNING: FAILING ROLL MIGHT REVEAL ZAVOK EGGMAN IS BACK/GIVE AWAY EGGMAN'S LOCATION
Note: This action lowers the DC of Zavok's Base Raid
Make A Fake Chaos Emerald DC:100
You have to admit that with so many more interested parties after the emeralds and Shadow in particular looking for yours, you may need a way to keep anyone interested in *your* emerald off the trail. Luckily the fox boy made such a tool already and your genius will only further refine it!
Reward: You make a fake Chaos Emerald. It looks and feels almost exactly identical to a real one but when analyzed or used to power a machine or mystic construct will actively sabotage the process. It can be a source of Chaos energy for Chaos casting at a -20 penalty.
Research Cassia's Disease DC:110
You don't believe for a second their version of you couldn't have wiped up a cure for this problem, but to be fair to yourself, you were probably very busy. However, upon actually checking the illness you realize you're too familiar with this disease. After all, you saw Maria's files on The Ark when you held control of it. Cassia's disease is almost exactly the same, with only minor differences. Well then, you will finish your grandfather's work.
Reward: Disease is understood and a potential treatment can be made. Further actions unlocked.
Upgrade The Badniks To Ring Power: DC:60
Honestly the main reason I've never done this before is that the blasted hedgehog destroyed enough of my badniks without them having the rings he collected each time we came to blows. With him gone, this is much more viable.
Reward: Badniks can now be created with Ring Power, decreasing Metal cost and increasing their power but using Rings which aren't unlimited.
Create Ring Retrieval Units DC:50
If I am going to be switching to Ring power over chaos drives or flicky engines, I will need a steady supply of them, which is difficult considering they appear hither and yon. A specialty badnik will need to be made to collect them.
Reward: Create the Ring Tosser badniks, small non-combatant badniks designed to retrieve rings from all over the Green Hill Zone providing you a steady supply of rings.
Study Ragnite DC:65
An interesting element and one The Empire seems fixated on, using it in many different forms and desperately digging for wherever it can be found. I am sure they have many mundane applications for such a mineral, but let's see what a mind as brilliant as my own can discover for this mystical element.
Rewards: Discover uses for Ragnite and unlock actions to mine and refine it.
Trickery
Quietly Retake You Badniks: DC:50/80
Zavok has managed to usurp control of a large number of your badniks and many are roaming the area that you use as your hideout. You are their creator and true master though, you can reassert their original loyalty programing if you can manage to reach them quietly.
Reward: Presence of Zavok's minions around the area is reduced. Gain a random assortment of lesser badniks and a small amount of Metal. Passing the 2nd Tier means that Zavok doesn't have a clue of what happened/doesn't get suspicious.
Cannot be taken with Clear Nearby Area From Zavok's Forces
Note: This action lowers the DC of Zavok's Base Raid
Look For Clues To The Whereabouts Of That Blasted Hedgehog! DC:20/100
You and Sonic are two sides of the same coin. To say you like each other would be a laughable lie, but only you are allowed to end this little game you play with each other.
Reward: Find Clues to where Sonic has disappeared to.
Infiltrate The Empire's Territory. DC:60
Apparently since the "Shattering." The world was completely changed, from what Starline was able to tell you, only the Green Hill Zones and Angel Island remained, everything else has been replaced by other places from other worlds or even universes! One of the closest ones to hear is a territory called the Empire, who Metal attacked and might have...spurred a bit. Now they are in a three way war between Zavok and Black Doom.
So far the Empire has managed to take over some of the territory originally to Green Hill Zones... Perhaps it could be worth infiltrating it to have some eyes on it?
Reward: Infiltrate the zone that connects the Empire with Green Hill Zone. Unlock new actions.
Sabotage Another Faction
This is what I call a "Target Rich Environment" just because there are too many people running around in what should be my empire! I don't quite have the territory or the forces to want to face them in head to head combat, but a little bit of sabotage never hurt anyone who matters, namely me. Oh ho ho ho!
Restoration DC 70
G.U.N. DC 90
Zavok DC 40
The Empire DC 60
Black Arms DC 90
Reward: Malus to the factions rolls this turn, potentially longer lasting effects. Temporarily lowers DC for base raid of selected faction.
Commit Some Robberies DC: 50/80/110
With the Auction happening next month, if you want for some insane reason try to get the relic by "honest" means, you suppose you could do the logical move and steal some stuff to fill your pockets. You would need to be careful of not getting caught, with the current state of things, doing robberies could get you on someone's radar fast.
Reward: Obtain more Income for the Auction next turn. Passing each Tier makes it more difficult for people to connect it to Eggman.
Look for the cacophonic conch DC: 100
At first, I thought that the conch would not be a viable way to quickly defeat the Zeti, but I just realized that with Starline assistance, finding that artifact is actually within my means!
Obtaining that conch will be a powerful equalizer against my enemies, and a step towards reclaiming my Empire!
Rewards: Re-obtain the Cacophonic conch.
Mystic
Gather Rings DC:5/50/90
Rings are a strange naturally spawning mystic item that covered most of the world back before the transformation. It seems they have not stopped appearing in the Green Hill area and there may be some use I can make of them, if only as a source of power.
Reward: Gain rings, the amount depending on level of success and ???
Through The Ringer DC 70
Power Rings are an abundant resource of naturally occurring chaos energy. For years, they've only been useful to you as a power supply, but others like that damn hedgehog could use them for so much more. What better place is there to have a look at your foundations than at rock bottom?
Reward: Discover uses for rings beyond power, new actions unlocked
Study The Warp Topaz DC:70 (Only Starline May Be Assigned)
I have seen many different versions and knock off gemstones trying to match the power of The Chaos Emerald, but if Starline is to keep the thing he better study it, understand it, and fill out a full report.
Reward: The effects and powers of The Warp Topaz are completely understood and possible research into duplicating its effects unlocked.
Check The Area For Magical Objects DCariable
Back on Mobius I couldn't walk ten steps without tripping over some world ending gemstone, key to a mystical prison, or some other such magical nonsense. Those are all useful things to both have and prevent others from having, however, best check to see if things follow suit in this new world.
Reward: Possibly find various magical stuff from any of the worlds that have combined
Personal
Focus On Your Work (Costs 3 personals)
There is no time to allow such frivolities! Not until the Empire is yours will you rest and relax! There is work to be done!
Reward: One action of your choice is rerolled and the higher die is taken.
Getting Back To The Grind
Despite what that blasted hedgehog believes, you do take care to keep yourself in good physical condition, otherwise how in the world would you manage to keep one step ahead of him?
Reward: Eggman works out, potentially gaining Power on High Rolls.
Do Some General Tinkering
You are, at the end of the day, an engineer. And there's nothing good on TV right now!
Reward: Eggman tinkers with random parts, getting items dependent on roll.
Draw Up Blueprints
When I have time it is nice to simply relax and allow my mind to rest, drawing up complex machines of war and conquest and plotting out the odd invention or two
Reward: Eggman draws up blueprints for one of his many weapons of war. High rolls have him remember something that he never made, but a version of him did.
Develop a Counter
The most annoying part of having so many people surrounding me that I didn't create is that they may at any point decide they know better than I do. Always handy to have a direct counter to them on hand for that case.
Reward: Eggman develops a counter against the hero unit, negating one of their traits and granting +20 in combat against them. If the hero discovers this before it is used, it is enough to shake the most fervent of loyalties.
Talk to Belle
You… you aren't sure what the connection between you and the wooden badnik is. When you look at her there is something in your heart that isn't your own emotions, but still pulls you towards her all the same. You're better with numbers and machines than people and as much as she was built, she is more of a person than many of your creations…
Reward: You talk with Belle. Good or Bad, you talk to Belle.
Read up on Eggman Lore
Sure, you are quite knowledgeable on the genius that is Dr. Eggman, but you can't Allow yourself to get rusty and overlooked!
Reward: Gain more insight on Eggman, potential ability to recreate something Eggman has done in the past as New Personals
Check Out The... "Local Talent"
Several of your more personal experiments are in need of "locally sourced" talent. Taking a trip into Green Hill Zone and people watching may be an excellent way to find the right people for the "job".
Reward: Dr.Starline people watches and perhaps finds subjects for a later experiment.
Talk To Orbot
You utterly refuse to entertain Cubot, you have some degree of standards even with the brilliant Dr. Eggman's tech. But Orbot is... Tolerable.
Reward: Starline talks to Orbot, potential to learn some interesting tidbits about Dr. Eggman.
Search This Base
Apparently the Eggbase you commandeered for the good Doctor is one he used to store nostalgic inventions he has no other use for. It's quite possible there could be useful items lying about.
Reward: Starline finds salvaged Eggman inventions that could potentially be repaired for his own usage.
Analyze Recording of "Sonic the Hedgehog"
According to your data, Dr. Eggman's greatest rival is that blue hedgehog. In order to assist the doctor in his plans for world Conquest, defeating that menace is a must!
Reward: Chances of Rusty of gaining a trait when fighting Sonic.
Find Out Who This Amy Is.
You have been told you look similar to one 'Amy Rose' perhaps you should search for information on this person.
Reward: Find the current whereabouts of Amy Rose.
Practice Limbs Akimbo
Upgrades and repairs have been made to your form and you must recalibrate and gain proficiency in your limbs again. They are an extension of yourself and you an extension of the Eggman Empire, there may be no flaws.
Reward: Rusty takes time to recalibrate and settle, high rolls may improve the Limbs Akimbo trait.
Observe the Local Wildlife
You spent some time in the surrounding forests as you marked out the defenses for the base and you observed many different kinds of animals and small creatures while out there. The flickies in particular drew your attention. Perhaps you should observe them some more…
Reward: Rusty takes some time to watch the birds.
Perform Personal Maintenance
The Doctor is keeping you in top working order, but you can also do a bit to make sure it takes less of his precious time to keep yourself in good condition.
Reward: Rusty does a bit of personal maintenance. On high rolls she gains +5 to her next national action.
Study Footage Of The Hedgehog
Metal is taking some time to analyze the old footage we have of all of sonic's battles against my forces, all at once. The blasted rodent may not be around anymore, but it's always good to be prepared.
Reward: Metal +10 to his next combat against Sonic.
Do Some General Training
You cannot beat that faker if you allow yourself to grow sloppy. Time to train.
Reward: Potential +5 to Metal's next action. Potential to raise Power stat if rolled high enough
OBSERVE VIDEO/AUDIO RECORDINGS
Cubot and Orbot have set a list of videos to provide you details of the world so that you can better understand it and destroy the Blasted Hedgehog and rebuff his own banter. You will be his superior in every way, including in wits.
Reward: Metal Sonic watches Eggtube. High Rolls may increase his Heart while low rolls may decrease it further as he picks up jank slang.
Study The Foes
When you had ascended to your Neo form you were unstoppable. Until you were stopped. This should not have been possible and must be rectified to never happen again. Observe. Adapt. Overcome. Destroy.
Reward: Metal observes the footage of his battle with The Empire and Black Arms and gains +5 to his next combat roll against either faction.
Make Coffee for the Doctor
One of the few reasons you know for certain your Robotnik kept you around is your great coffee making skills. Let's see how things go with This version of him.
Reward: Potential +5 to Stone's next action. Potential +5 to Eggman's next action as well if Rolled high enough
Clean/Organize the Doctor's Things
From what you can gather, this base has a lot of old inventions just lying around. If Dr. Eggman has no desire to use them that's fine, but it's such a mess! What if he trips over one!?
Reward: The various abandoned inventions Eggman has lying around the base are organized by Stone, making Starline's "Search This Base" Personal easier. Potential for Stone to find a minor invention for his own usage.
Work on Your People Skills
As the Doctor's middle man (at least back in the day), you often have to communicate with others. One day that may extend beyond making simple deals and then leaving, so let's brush up on this.
Reward: Potential to raise Stone's Heart Stat.
Read The Manual
One of the few things you actually managed to pull from the wreckage and keep with you after the Shattering, the manual for the Giant Eggman Robot is now one of the few things you have left from your time with your doctor. His genius really did know no bounds as he created such a machine of destruction...
Reward: Stone spends some time going through the manual of the Giant Eggman Robot.
Talk to a... Co-worker?
You honestly aren't sure how you feel about any of these people. But they know more about this Eggman guy than you do...
Who?
-Orbot and Cubot
-Starline
-Rusty
-Stone
-Clove
Reward: Belle learns about Eggman, at least from the perspective of the selected Hero Unit. Chances to bond with the selected Hero Unit
Moving Day
You are still reluctant about this, but your... Captor? Boss? Uncle (you refuse to call him dad)? Whatever he is, you live with him now... So you need to grab your stuff.
Reward: Belle moves fully into the base and grabs her things from Mr. Tinker's lab, potential +5 to her Loyalty.
Tinker Time
It's in your name and you need to not really focus on what's going on right now. You can use this time to make some nice toys and trinkets! Maybe you could even make some for some of the people in the base… would they like that?
Reward: Belle takes some time to make some toys and trinkets. High rolls have her make a couple of trinkets personalized for some of your heroes.
Keep an eye on Your Sister
It's very emotionally taxing, seeing your sister in this state. But... Someone has to do it, and you don't quite trust anyone here just yet obviously.
Reward: Clove keeps a protective eye on her sister, ???
Talk to your New Co-Workers
You aren't quite sure what to think about these individuals....at least Orbot & Cubot are about the same.
Reward: Clove interacts with a Hero Unit. Potential to gain a Trait when on Adventures with them if rolled high enough.
Who?
-Starline
-Agent Stone
-Metal Sonic
-Belle
Get Some Ice Cream
You need to do something, you need to move. Cassia's awake sometimes and maybe you can get the both of you a treat for when she's feeling more lucid. It might be a bit of a walk to find some, but she's worth it.
Reward: Clove gets some ice cream for herself and Cassia.
Current Equipment:
EggGun: Gives +5 bonus to combat rolls (Warning, can only be equipped to hero units with a base power lower than 20) Current amount: 5
[]Give Someone an EggGun?
-[](Yes) Write in who:
-[](No)
WARNING: MORATORIUM IN PLACE: 24 HOURS TO DISCUSS AND PLAN THINGS
[X] Resource acquisition and saving a sick child.
-[X] Assault Empire 'Work Camp' (Metal Sonic)
DC 50
Result: 20+18(Eggman Power)+30(Metal Sonic Power)+6(Loyalty)=74
Success!
You decided that Metal needed a proper test, this small 'Work Camp' the Empire just made seemed like an excellent target! Letting those guys remember the might of your greatest creation was a bonus!
After giving Metal his orders and asking Starline to make a portal for quick transportation of all those assets the Empire won't need anymore, you decided to focus on other tasks until your creation came back from his "walk".
After working on your first set of Badniks in a long time, you weren notified of Metal's return to the base, quickly wanting to check on him, you saw Starline and Cubot and Orbot helping move several metal crates and additional equipment.
Excellent! With those resources, you could get to creating more inventions!
"Well done Metal! Did you show those Empire fools their place?" At your interrogative, Metal just gave a thumbs up as he pushed the last piece of equipment through the portal. Staring at it, you could see the Camp in ruins, with flames and smoke coming from it.
"Ahhhh beautiful! Well done, indeed." You congratulate him as you give a small pat to his head. "Come on, you two, quickly upload all of it and bring it to the lab! I need to see what we are working with!" You bark at your two robotic minions, who are struggling to open one of the gates.
"R-Right away sir! Just give us a minute to open these crates and will have all set in a quickie!" Cubot shouts terrified as he redoubles his effort to open the crate. In less than a minute they finally manage to open the damn thing.
But you were not ready for what was inside.
A loud female yelp is heard as the crate opens and it's turned on its head. A young black haired girl dresses in some worker clothes with a shawl stumbles from inside the metal container, who can help but look worried at her current situation.
"Well, well, well…what do we have here?" You ask as you tap your foot, annoyed, staring at the unexpected trespasser.
To Be Continued in [Look To The Sky, a New Dawn is Coming]
Results: Gained 75 Metal, several crates of ragnite, imperial weaponry, and 3 income. New actions to study Imperial Weaponry! DC for The Empire Base Assault reduced! Rescued ???
-[X] Heart: Hire a New Minion - Canaan (Belle)
DC 60
Result=98(Roll)+6(Eggman Heart)+25(Belle)+0(Loyalty)+10(Omake Bonus)=139
Critical Success!
"Um…Are you Canaan?" Belle asked the white haired woman who was by herself sitting in the corner of bar "W-We would like to hire y-you."
As she stared at the young woman she was sent to recruit, who didn't seem to pay much attention to her and instead seemed focusing on playing with some…copper wire?! Making figures with her fingers, Belle couldn't help but be nervous to what was asked of her. Recruiting a dangerous mercenary for (her father) The Doctor was not something she expected to do!
"Do you have the money to pay for my services?" Canaan asked, in a calm, if not bored tone, keeping that mask of stoicness that continued to make Belle nervous. She turned her head to look at Belle, and for a moment, was at a loss at seeing her wooden puppet form, bunking a few times before keeping her stoic face, all the while continuing to play with the metal wire.
"Well n-not exactly?" She says as she looks away and rubs her head. Canaan eyes turn half lidded for a moment and stops looking at her to focus on her hands. Seeing she losing interest, Belle says the first thing that comes to her mind.
"Wait! Fa-Doctor Eggman promises to help you look for that Maria person! Hewilllendasmuchassetsashecantoassistyou!!!" She babbles quickly. The mercenary's eyes widen at the mention of the name, seemingly recognizing it, before scoffing.
"That doctor of yours and everyone else has promised help in helping me find Maria…" A look of sadness appears in her eyes, as she stops playing g with the copper wire for the first time in all the conversation. "None of them have been able to help. Just leave, kid." She sighs, a tone of resignation appearing in her voice.
Belle… couldn't help but feel sad at how she looked. (It reminded Belle of how she felt before) Still not willing to give up she tries one last time. "Whoever you are looking for…they are important to you, right?" Canaan doesn't answer, and Belle can't stop while body trembles with nervousness, but she presses on. "I know what it is like to be separated from a person you hold dear…and not knowing what happened to them…" The days she spent alone on that house, still haunt her, wondering when would she see Mr. Tinker. "I…lost someone too and I am still looking for them, but I…I think Eggman can help you…as he helped me too once."
"If he does not Give you any new leads…I p-promise to help you find that person you hold dear…nobody should be alone." She finishes, lamely as she looks at the floor, not willing to look her in the eyes. Canaan doesn't say anything for a long while, and Belle thought she failed in the task that Eggman assigned her.
As she was ready to leave and go back to the extraction point where the platypus was waiting for her. She heard a voice behind her. "Have you ever played Cat's Cradle?"
Result: Recruited Canaan! You must find clues about Maria within a time limit otherwise she will leave you! And Belle will go along with her!
Belle's trait "friend of all children" has been upgraded! Applies now to adults too!
Belle and Canaan have bonded, if both continue to hang out, they will develop a trait!
Canann:
Power: 27 (This young lady seems to be a hardened combatant. Fitting if what Starline says about being a professional Mercenary is true. )
Heart: 25 (She seems like the cool and aloof type of person, but surprisingly seems to be decent enouhg at socializing.)
Logistics: 20 (As a mercenary, Canaan is proficient in planning out her mission in order to guarantee a succesful mission. She seems like a decent choice to assign some task and not worry about them blowing up...hopefully.)
Trickery: 22 (Seems to be quite sharp when spotting lies or any kind of deception. While not that proficient herslef on lying, her serious attitude lets her keep a decent power mask..how annoying.)
Brains: 9 (Canaan doesn't seem to have that much of a formal education, pfft. Seems like mercenaries tend to forget their studies a lot don't they?)
Mystic: 2 (Canaan seem really inexperienced when it comes to mystical dealing...uh. Mildly interesting.)
Loyalty: 0
Traits:
Expert Sharpshooter: +5 to Combat rolls.
Synesthesia: After being infected by a weird virus. Canaan seemed develop the ability to see emotions of people as colors...letting her easily sense someones motives as well as identify friend from foe... How Intriguing.
+10 to Trickery contested rolls. Allows to add half of her Trickery to any Heart roll she mades. +5 to Combat roll against living enemies.
-[X] Build Some Badniks: DC:Autosuccess.
--[X] Egg Pawns [Variants] - 10 Metal
Ha! Finally, it was hard to find the time with everything going on, but you get to do an old, beloved classic: Building your wonderful Badniks.
You decided to reluctantly stick to just Egg Pawns for now. Arguably some of the most Simple and lowly of your creations, but your lowliest creations were heads and shoulders above anyone else's tech.
Regardless, you got to work, and In no time they were built.
"Oh ho ho ho! It is quite nice to get back into the swing of things." You smirk as the Egg Pawns turn on.
-[X]Build Some Badniks: DC:Autosuccess. - Orbot+Cubot
--[X] Burrowbot: 15 Metal
Meanwhile, you sent Orbot and Cubot to make some Burrowbots. They had done well recently, so you figured you could give the two a bit more leeway in still less important but more complex tasks. You hope you will not regret this decision.
For now at least, the duo are easily able to make the Burrowbots with no issues (at least none major enough to be worth getting involved in the process while you did your own work).
Useful, now digging for Any Ragnite or any other materials you discover should be a cinch!
Results: Obtained a batch of EggPawns and Burrowbots
-[X] Brains: Research Cassia's Disease (Clove)
DC 110
Result= 46 81+ 40(Eggman Brains)+25(CLOVE TOTAL BRAIN STAT)+2(Loyalty)= 148
Success!
It is not often you reference the work of others during your own work, but you felt fine in doing so considering it was your own grandfather's life work to cure this disease. It in fact felt like there were three of you in the lab as you worked, your grandfather preparing the way for you as you directed Clove as a lab assistant, the Pronghorn seemingly laser focused on the task in front of the two of you.
Biology was not your field of choice, machines simpler to diagnose a problem by running a diagnostic but you are a genius and Clove was there. Taking samples from her sister and comparing them to Cassia herself gave you a place to work from, thanks again to the work of your grandfather you were able to categorize and begin to work towards what a cure would actually look like.
There would be no cure at this moment, but you were confident that you did have two possibly viable solutions to Cassia's problem, though neither was perfect.
The first would be several sessions of extensive gene therapy. You would be rewriting her DNA to actually change the body itself, forcing the changes and removing the offending strands and replacing them with those closer to her sister's own healthy body. This would *not* be a simple process and would require you to actively take care through the entire procedure, but it would eventually see Cassia returned to complete health.
The second is a suspension unit. You understand what is causing the spread and deterioration of Cassia's body now and you can create a robot designed to keep those parts actively suspended and contained. This would not be a cure and the unit would be a full body prosthetic, covering her entirely and essentially trapping her inside. She would be able to speak and move, but the suspension process would not allow her to leave the confines of the unit. This is less than likely to please either Pronghorn, but it would get Cassia up and out of bed at least. It also wouldn't take anywhere near as long as the other.
No matter what however, you feel as if you could refine this further. You understand your grandfather's works better than before now, you can see the years he poured into this, but now is the time to step past that. You are Dr. Ivo "Eggman" Robotnik and you will change the world, both by conquering it, and curing it.
Results:
NIDS understood and unlocked actions to potentially cure or suspend the disease in Cassia Pronghorn. Actions unlocked to further refine the process to be less labor intensive. +5 loyalty from Clove for moving on this project so effectively, quickly, and allowing her to help.
[X] Look for the cacophonic conch (Dr.Starline)
DC 100
34+22(Eggman Trickery)+20(Starline Trickery)+3(Loyalty)+10(Omake Bonus) = 89
Failure!
That pathetic platypus! You assigned him one job, one job only!!! To find that stupid conch so you could use it against those damn Zeti!
When you told Starline his assignment, he gave a confident smirk and said to leave everything to him, But one month has passed and what does he find? Nothing!
Stupid Fool! He is just wasting your time! Starline better increase his performance in the next months or otherwise…
Result: Starline hasn't found the Cacophonic Conch yet. Dc Reduced to 90.
-[X] Check The Area For Magical Objects (Agent Stone)
dc higher better
bonus= 19+8(Eggman Mystic)+6(Stone Mystic)+1(Loyalty)=33
Minor Success!
You sent Stone on a search for Mystic artifacts. You personally considered the task to be quite ridiculous, but The toady took to it with the utmost gusto.
If only everyone could be as eager to please you as he was...
Regardless, he returned after a few days of searching with a strange glass bottle filled with a rainbow colored liquid. He explained that, when ingested, it allowed you to become the same color as your environment for 6 minutes, for perfect camouflage against most creatures.
When you asked how he could possibly know that, he sheepishly admitted he found two and had already ingested one.
...You know, you aren't sure what you expected the answer to be. At the very least it's better than nothing.
Reward: Gained a single Rainbow Bottle!
Rainbow Bottle: A single use liquid in a bottle that, when ingested, makes the drinker turn the same colors as their environment for 6 minutes, granting +15 to Stealth.
-[X] Personals
--[X] Eggman
---[X] Dr. Eggman: Focus On Your Work (Costs 3 personals) - Research Cassia's Disease
---[X] Talk to Belle = 58
To be continued in: Moving Day
--[X] Starline
---[X] Check Out The... "Local Talent" = 8
Starline desperately seeked to make it up to me after his failure to find the conch and assured me he would use his free time to go out and find something or someone useful!
Unfortunately, in his rush to do so, he used the Warp Topaz, which must have reached its daily limit.
The ensuing explosion of energy knocked him out for the last 3 days of the month. It would be amusing if it wasn't so sad.
--[X] Rusty Rose
---[X] Find Out Who This Amy Is = 81
You soon enough get a filed report on your desk from Rusty Rose. Hmmm. How efficient. You wish ALL your minions bothered with that without having to be prodded or reminded!
As you read over it, what you see makes sense, you suppose. Apparently, That blasted Hedgehog's sycophantic stalker and his sidekick, Amy and young Miles "Tails" Prower, have been seen all around Green Hill and its surrounding areas, on a never ending search for their missing comrade. Hmmm.
Nice to know it's not just you wondering where he is, one supposes, and useful that they're out of your hair! Still, you should keep an eye out for if they return…
DC for the second tier for "Look For Clues To The Whereabouts Of That Blasted Hedgehog!" has been reduced by 10!
--[X] Metal Sonic
---[X] Study The Foes = 2 + 5 (Omake Bonus) = 7
Metal took some time to look over the footage of his fight against The Empire and the Black Arms. It... Didn't go well.
Metal stared as silently as ever at the footage, though you knew subtle tells by now that indicated when he was getting angry.
The way his fingers twitched, the tapping of his foot, the specific tilting of his head. All good signs that he was reaching a boiling point. And then he got to the last bit of the fight, as Shadow started to leave after that foolish girl stabbed your greatest creation.
"Hmmph. Pathetic. But you're a faker of a faker. What can I expect?" That seemed to be the last straw as Metal Sonic angrily punched through the wall, and then another.
You managed to temporarily turn him off before he caused too much destruction, thankfully.
Still, even you feel maybe you should let him cool off a bit before you next talk to him…
Result: Metal gets a -5 malus to his next National Action.
--[X] Agent Stone
---[X] Clean/Organize the Doctor's Things = 54
Stone, after the embarrassment of that small blunder with the mystic item searching, decided it wasn't enough to just bring you that other item and got to work organizing your base's various inventions that were lying around.
You are still personally not that interested in looking further into the various items yourself, you have nostalgia for them but they failed you once and you don't easily grant second chances. However, you have to admit it is nice to have them less Chaotically sprawled around the base. You had to admit Stone had a point about the fact you might have tripped over one someday, even if you don't admit it to him.
He seemed happy enough to help, so win win.
Reward: The next time Starline takes the "Search this Base" Personal, ¼ of this Roll will be added to it.
--[X] Clove
---[X] Keep an eye on Your Sister = 98
Clove stared at her sister, who was sleeping well for once, and felt the guilt gnawing away at her. Not for the usual reasons, not because she had been the one to sell the both of them to a tyrant, no right now she felt terrible because… she didn't feel terrible. Not because the doctor had actually made progress, for all she knew it was just another trick or lie. No, she simply felt drained.
There is only so many times someone can dive into the depths of despair before it just becomes another part of their day. Just another thing she can't even muster up the energy for anymore. She still cares, she still loves her sister more than anything but…
She was just so tired.
Tears leaked from her eyes even as she kept a straight face. There was just nothing left…
A hand took hers, a soft and strange pressure of another, which made her recoil, whipping to face whoever was there.
"Oh!" The wooden marionette pulled back, holding her hands up in surrender and apology. "I'm sorry!"
Clove looked at the wooden badnik and recalled the doctor saying that there were several others in the base and his tone seemed odd when talking about this one…
"Ummm…" Belle looks to the side, at Cassia, and rubs one of her arms awkwardly. "I'm sorry like I said it's just…" She breathes in, like she is steadying herself and continues, "I… when I was talking with Orbot he said you were here alone with your sister and I remembered when after The Shattering dad disappeared I… I didn't want to be alone so I thought…"
Clove looks at the girl standing there awkwardly, trying to reach out for no reason other than she saw another person hurting. How in the world had the doctor been the one to make her?
But you suppose he hadn't. That… that could make this safer…
"...Thank you Belle." Clove said softly. Belle nodded wordlessly in return and took a chair next to the Pronghorn, her hand once again taking Clove's as they both sat at the bed of the sick little girl.
As you watched this from the security room, you frowned. This was an intimate moment. A sweet one even. You felt proud of Belle for being there for-
You shake your head, clearing the sentimentality away. No, that was no way to think. Why would you even care…
-[X]Give Someone an EggGun? 5x EggGuns
--[X](Yes): Agent Stone
--[X](Yes): Dr. Starline
--[X](Yes): Dr. Eggman
Random Event Roll: 96
When the roving badniks in the area surrounding your base all froze as one, you grew concerned. When they all turned as one and began making their way towards your base, you grabbed an EggGun and ordered Metal and Rusty to get ready for combat!
When each of them stopped 500 feet from the entrance to your base and shut down, however, you have to admit there was confusion even in your brilliant mind. From the line of badniks, a single Motobug with its headlights changing between red and blue rolled forward and did its best to give a bow. Upon waving Metal and Rusty to the side to allow the small badnik through, it bumped into your leg and seemed to… hug you?
This may need looking into, but at least you've gotten some of your Badniks back.
Results: Gained 3 Egg Robos, 1 Egg Hammer, 2 Blowfish, 2 Hey Ho, 2 Toxomisters, and 1 motobug that is acting strangely. Action to check out the strange Motobug unlocked.
The option to Clear badniks from your territory has vanished and Zavok is none the wiser. You officially control territory..
Current Faction's control of Green Hills:
Eggman: 1%
Zavok: 59%
GUN: 10%
The Restoration: 20%
Black Arms: 5%
The Empire: 5%
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