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On Angel Island, Knuckles is standing guard over the Master Emerald like usual.
Knuckles: You know, I used to appreciate the peace and quiet that came with being the guardian of the Master Emerald. But ever since I met that hedgehog, it’s like I just keep expecting something big to happen. Ah, it’s probably just nerves. I mean, it’s not like some grand adventure’s just gonna fall out of the sky.
Suddenly, the ground begins to rumble. Knuckles runs to the edge of the island, where he sees what looks like a city rising out of the water.
Knuckles: OK, technically I wasn’t wrong. I better go check that out. But first…
Knuckles runs over to the Master Emerald, before pulling out a device and activating it. Suddenly, the Emerald seems to disappear.
Knuckles: If what Tails said is true, that should keep the Master Emerald hidden while I’m away.
Knuckles then turns and runs off towards the island.
Elsewhere, we see a crocodile reading a newspaper about the new island while sitting on a wooden chair.
Crocodile: Hey, Espio! Come check this out!
Elsewhere, a purple chameleon, who had previously been meditating, disappears, before reappearing next to the crocodile.
Espio: Yes, Vector?
Vector: According to this paper, an island just rose up out of the water!
Espio: I see. What has you so interested in it?
Vector: Don’t you see? If we find out what’s up with that island, it could put us on the map! It’ll prove we’re real detectives, and people’ll finally take us seriously!
Espio: I don’t know, Vector. Something about this seems… off.
Vector: Come on, Espio, the best way to show people you mean business is to go after something a hundred percent, no matter how dangerous it is!
Espio: …Alright. I’ll go ask Master for permission to leave.
Vector: Alright!
With that, Espio disappears again.
In a meadow, we see two bee’s talking with each other.
Male Bee: Hey, Saffron! I heard that this huge island just came out of the ocean! Wanna check it out?
Saffron: I’m not sure, Charmy. I mean, with everything that’s going on lately…
Charmy: Hey, that’s why we should go! Maybe it’ll help clear our minds. C’mon, please?
Saffron: Alright, let’s go check it out.
Charmy: Yahoo!
With that, the two fly off.
In a canyon, we see Might and Ray sitting together.
Mighty: Agh! All this time, and we still got no clue where Matilda is!
Ray: Hey, calm down, Mighty. We’ll find her eventually.
Mighty: I know, I know, it’s just… I feel like I can’t rest easy until I know she’s alright.
Ray looks sullen for a moment, before brightening up.
Ray: Hey, have you heard about the island that rose up from the ocean?
Mighty: Yeah, why?
Ray: Well, maybe we could go check that out, get your mind off things. After all, I don’t think your sister would want you to spend so much time worrying about her.
Mighty: …Yeah, you’re right. C’mon.
The two head off towards the island.
Later, we see the four groups, along with the Freedom Fighters and some others meeting up at the front of the island, which appears to be the entrance for a carnival. In front of the audience is a weasel in a yellow suit and hat.
Wes: Hey, hey, hey there, folks! Wes Weasly’s the name, family fun’s the game! And that is precisely why I’m here, because this is the beginning of something you’ll never forget. What am I referring to? Why, the opening of the greatest theme park ever, The Newtrogic High Zone!
Wes waits for a reaction, but only receives the confused murmuring of the audience.
Wes: Geez, tough crowd. Alright, I understand that hearing about something doesn’t compare to experiencing it for yourself, so allow me to take you on a tour of the park so that you can see what’s in store!
Wes motions for the crowd to follow him, and they follow him into the park. They enter into the center of the park, with a large map at the center of it.
Wes: This is the Main Square, where the five main attractions of Newtrogic High are available to you! As for those attractions, well…
He points to a greenhouse.
Wes: This is the Botanic Base, the largest collection of plant-life this side of Mobius. For all our nature lovers, this is a must see!
He points to a large blue spot.
Wes: Here we have the Marina Madness, a two-in-one aquarium-waterpark combo! For those who want to take a dip, or who just like to learn about our finned friends under the sea, Marina Madness has you covered!
He points to a fair ground.
Wes: Next up is the Speed Slider, home of Newtrogic High’s collection of high-octain rides! This is a must-see for all of the adrenaline junkies in the audience! Roller coasters, ferris wheels, bumper cars- you name it, we have it!
He points to a large tower on the map.
Wes: Now, this is the Techno Tower, Newtrogic High’s home of technology. Now, I know the prospect of technology can seem frightening, thanks to a certain egg-shaped individual. However, Techno Tower is dedicated to showing that technology can be used to benefit people in the right hands. We’ve got all sorts of exhibits just waiting for you to check them out, so don’t wait!
He then points to what looks like an arena.
Wes: Finally, we have the Amazing Arena. Here, you can see some of the most advanced machines in our time duke it out for supremacy! While you're there, you can dine on our wide selection of food and drinks, perfectly catered for your enjoyment!
With that, Wes steps away from the board.
Wes: Well, that got your attention, didn’t it? Now, I think I’ve talked enough. The only way all of you will fully understand how magical Newtrogic High is, is to experience it for yourself! Oh, and since this is our grand opening, and your first time here, everything the park has to offer will be yours, absolutely free!
With that, the crowd disperses, running off to enjoy the park. However, the Freedom Fighters are a bit hesitant.
Sally: I don’t know about this, Sonic. It just seems a little fishy to me.
Sonic: Come on, Sal. We’ve got a whole theme park waiting for us, and we don’t even have to pay for it! Come on, let’s just take it easy for a while.
Sally: Well… I guess a break would be nice.
With that, the heroes also run off to enjoy the park.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvV05M2kmzI&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=6
Later, we see Knuckles arriving on the island.
Knuckles: Alright, I’m here. Let’s see what’s up with this place.
Knuckles begins to make his way through the Isolated Isles. Eventually, he comes across Wes Weasly standing in front of a capsule with Espio inside it.
Wes: Well, I’ve got to give you credit, sneaky. You lasted a lot longer than your pals back there. Heck, the fact you managed to make it this far is seriously imprssive! Still, I managed to get you in the end. And now, you’re going to end up just like the others.
Espio: You won’t get away with this, Weasly!
Wes: Oh, au contriaire, my color-shifting compatriot! I already have.
Knuckles: Hey!
On this, Wes turns, before letting out a scream and running off. Knuckles jumps down and frees Espio from the capsule.
Espio: Thank you for the assistance.
Knuckles: ‘Course. I’m Knuckles.
Espio: Espio. A pleasure.
Knuckles: So, what’s going on here?
Espio: The island that rose from the ocean was connected to a theme park, owned by the man you saw earlier: Wes Weasly. He lured many people here so that he could capture us.
Knuckles: Well, I guess we’ll just have to set them free, right?
Espio: Yes, I suppose so.
The two continue forward.
Knuckles: So, what do you know about this Weasel guy anyway?
Espio: Weasly began his career as your average door-to-door salesman, scamming people out of their hard-earned money by selling them useless or defective products. For years, he was a nuisance. Annoying, but harmless.
Knuckles: So what changed?
Espio: He decided to knock on Robotnik’s door. For some reason, Robotnik took a liking to Weasly.
Knuckles: Probably because they're both as crooked as a tree branch.
This gets a chuckle out of Espio.
Espio: Since then, Weasly’s profits have skyrocketed. “Coincidentaly”, he’s also become one of Robotnik’s biggest supporters.
Knuckles: You sure do know a lot about this guy.
Espio: Well, the truth is, I’ve had my eye on Weasly. You see, I’m actually a part of a detective agency, and we’ve been gathering evidence against Weasly for a while now. This should help us put him behind bars for good.
Knuckles: Huh. Neat.
Knuckles then mutters to himself.
Knuckles: Note to self, find out what a detective is.
Knuckles and Espio continue to make their way towards Newtrogic High. As they do, they come across a large ring.
Espio: What is this?
Knuckles: I think I’ve got an idea. Stay here.
Knuckles jumps into the portal. A few seconds later, he reappears with a Chaos Ring.
Espio: What is that?
Knuckles: I don’t know. The master of the Special Zone just said it was “What I needed”.
Espio: I see. Come on.
The two continue forward.
Elsewhere, Robotnik is talking with Weasly in a tower.
Robotnik: What do you mean, “The chameleon escaped”!?
Wes: Well, I had the little guy dead to rights, and suddenly this red guy showed up! I tried to stop him, but he was too tough!
Robotnik: Then stop whining and stop him!
Wes: Bu- I- Alright, boss.
Robotnik disconnects as Stone and Snively walk in.
Snively: You called, sir?
Robotnik: Yes, I did. I’m sure you both remember the S-6 squad?
Stone: Yes. They were-
Robotnik: Complete and utter failures, yes. Well, after their disappearance following the Veg-O-Fortress incident, I began working on their replacements. And now, they're finally ready for their debut!
Robotnik motions to another door, where two robots enter the room. One is a bulky, silver robot. The other is a short robot that resembles a bomb with limbs.
Robotnik: Gentlemen, meet my new generals: Heavy and Bomb!
Heavy: It’s an honor to be here, Lord Robotnik. I look forward to defeating our enemies, and expanding our glorious empire to the rest of the world! Right, Bomb?
Bomb: Ping.
Heavy: Wise words, friend.
Robotnik: I’m glad to hear it! Now, here’s your first assignment. Knuckles the Echidna has arrived on the island. Your mission is to track him down and… deal with him.
Heavy: With pleasure. When I’m done with him, he’ll wish he was never born. Come on, Bomb.
Bomb: Ping.
With that, the two head off.
At the park, Knuckles and Espio arrive at the Main Square.
Knuckles: Man, for a theme park, this place sure is quiet.
Espio: Most likely because Weasly already captured all of the guests.
Knuckles: Any idea where they could be?
Espio: Well, it’s logical to asume that, with how recently the capturing process began, that Weasly hasn’t had enough time to move all the prisoners to wherever they’re being held.
Knuckles: So you think some of them are still in the park?
Espio: Yes.
Knuckles: Alright, let’s get moving.
The two begin running toward the Botanic Base.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72yQZlbHuko&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=13
Eventually, the two arrive at the greenhouses entrance.
Knuckles: Alright, let’s head on in.
The two enter the greenhouse, making their way past various obstacles and badniks. Eventually, they come across another capsule, with Charmy and Saffron inside it.
Charmy: Hey, red guy! Can you get us out of here? I’m sooooo bored!
Knuckles: Hang on, kid.
The two approch the capsule, when they are attacked by Heavy.
Heavy: Not so fast, maggots.
Knuckles: Who are you supposed to be?
Heavy: I am General Heavy, military commander of the great Dr. Robotnik!
Knuckles: Alright, so now we know Robotnik is behind this. Well, tin-man, if you don’t want to get your face smashed in, I’d suggest you get lost.
Heavy: Not likely, vermin. Now, prepare to die in agony, for the glory of the Robotnik Empire!
Heavy begins attacking the heroes, trying to punch them and crush them with his weight. Eventually, the two are able to send him flying off the ledge of a nearby cliff. Afterwards, they free Charmy and Saffron.
Charmy: Woo! It was really boring there, but now we’re free! We’re free bees, free bees, free bees, whee!
Saffron: Thank you both for your help.
Knuckles: Aw, it was nothing, miss.
Saffron: Oh, call me Saffron. This is Charmy, my boyfriend.
Espio: I see. Do you know where any other prisoners are?
Saffron: I’m afraid not.
Charmy: Oh, but I did see this big red guy flying around the greenhouse before we got stuck!
Knuckles: Robotnik. C’mon, hey might still be around here.
Charmy: Oh, can we come with you?
Espio: I don’t know. You’re a bit… young.
Charmy: Yeah, but I can still kick a whole lot of butt! Saffron too, right Saf?
Saffron: Well, I wouldn’t exactly call myself defensless…
Charmy: Yeah, see? C’mon, please?
Knuckles: Alright, we’ll give you a shot, kid.
Charmy: Yeah!
The heroes begin to proceed further into the Greenhouse.
Espio: Well, why don’t you tell me about yourself?
Charmy: Well…
We flashback to the past, where we see Charmy at a ball in a palace, where he is talking with a girl who isn’t Saffron.
Bee girl: You know, I think that we could a great couple. I mean, you’re pretty cute.
Charmy: C’mon, I told you, I’m not interested.
Bee girl: Oh come on, what’s not to love about me?
Suddenly, flowers begin to grow out of a pot, releasing pollen that drives the girl off in a sneezing fit. Afterwards, Saffron comes over.
Saffron: You alright?
Charmy: Yeah, thanks.
Saffron: I swear, some people just can’t take the hint.
Charmy: Eh, as long as I’m the prince, people are gonna try to take advantage of that. As long as I’ve got you, I can handle whatever they try.
Saffron giggles, and the flashback ends.
Espio: Wait, you’re a prince?
Charmy: Yep.
Knuckles: So how come you’re not hanging out in your palace, eating grapes, or whatever royal people do?
Charmy: Well, the pressure kinda got to me eventually, so I kinda sorta… ran away?
Espio: What?
Charmy: I’m gonna go back! I just… don’t know when.
Knuckles: I sure hope so.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrqGoRbbS_o&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=25
Suddenly, a claw descends from above them and grabs Knuckles and Espio. Following this, Wes Weasly descends in a red machine.
Wes: Pretty impressive, right? It’s the all new Weasly Grab-n-Shock, for all your vermin vamoosing needs!
Charmy: Hey, let them go!
Wes: Oh, sorry, little guy, but the big man needs you all for his plans, so…
Charmy: I’ll show you little, you jerk!
Suddenly, Charmy shrinks down and flies towards the machine. Weasly tries to electrocute the body of the machine, but he’s too slow as Charmy flies into the machine and begins tearing it apart from the inside.
Wes: Hey, hey! Easy! This is expensive tech!
Eventually, the machine falls apart, causing Weasly to retreat. Charmy emerges from the machine and returns to normal size as the claw drops Knuckles and Espio.
Knuckles: Not bad, kid! I’d say you definitely proved yourself.
Espio: Yes, your ability to shrink will definitely come in handy.
Charmy: Thanks, guys. Now come on!
The heroes continue forward. As they do, they grab another Chaos Ring from the Special Zone.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrqGoRbbS_o&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=25
Suddenly, the ground beneath them begins to shake. Then, a machine that resembles a giant venus flytrap emerges from the ground. From the machine, a familiar voice speaks.
Robotnik: Well, if it isn’t Knuckles! I see you got yourself some new friends. Maybe after I beat you, I’ll let you all share a capsule!
Robotnik begins attacking the heroes, using the flytraps mouth to try and bite them, and using metallic roots to try and slap them.
Saffron: Leave my friends alone!
Saffron throws her hands forward and begins to concentrate. Suddenly, the plants around the area begin to move, starting to attack the machine.
Robotnik: What the!?
Eventually, the plants overwhelm the machine, causing it and the Robotnik duplicate to be destroyed. Afterwards, Saffron falls to her knees, exhausted.
Charmy: You alright?
Saffron: Yeah, I’ve just… never controlled that many plants before.
Espio: So, you can control plants with your mind?
Saffron: Yeah. I was taught by Meli, the Court Sorcerress. I’m… still kind of an amateur.
Knuckles: Well, if that’s you at your worst, I can’t wait to see you at your best!
Saffron: Thanks, Knuckles.
Espio: Well, it looks like there’s nothing more we can do here. Let’s return to the main area.
The heroes turn back and return to the main area.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvRKIxTUbf4&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=11
Later, we see the heroes enter the Marina Madness.
Espio: Alright, let’s get to work.
The heroes begin to make their way through the area. Eventually, they come across Vector in another capsule.
Vector: Esp! Oh man, am I glad to see you! Think you can get me out of here?
Espio: Just hold on, Vector!
Espio runs forward, but is suddenly interrupted by Bomb, who lands on his head.
Bomb: Ping.
Knuckles: Let me guess, you’re one of Robotnik’s minions, right?
Bomb: Ping.
Knuckles: And you’re not gonna let us free Vector without a fight, are you?
Bomb: Ping.
Knuckles: Alright, bring it on!
Bomb begins to attack the heroes, jumping around and exploding. Whenever he does, an identical copy of him appears. Eventually, they are able to knock him away. Afterwards, Espio frees Vector.
Vector: Thanks for the help, guys. It was getting cramped in there.
Espio: Of course.
Charmy: So, what are you doing here anyway, Mr.Crocodile?
Vector: Hey, I’m no ordinary crocodile! I’m also a master detective. Vector the Investi-gator, at your service!
Knuckles: Wait, I thought you were a crocodile.
Vector: I am, but the name worked better, so…
Charmy: Wait, your a detective? Like Sherlock Holmes!?
Vector: Mh-Hm! As a matter of fact, I just so happen to be a member of The Chaotix Detective Agency, along with my little brother Espio.
Saffron: Brother? But he’s a-
Vector: Yeah, I’m adopted. You got a problem with that?
Saffron: Oh no, of course not!
Vector: Well, anyways, we haven’t gotten much business yet, so we decided to find out what was going on here so we could boost our reputation.
Knuckles: Well, I’d bet you could pull that off if you came with us. What do you say?
Vector: You kidding? I’ve been itching to sink my teeth into Robotnik and Weasly ever since they stuck me in that stupid capsule! Count me in!
Espio: Very well then. Come on.
The group presses forward.
Charmy: So, hows your detective-thing going so far? You worked any cases?
Vector: Eh, a few. Missing pets, stolen bikes, that sorta thing. Nothing major. Not that I don’t appreciate it. It’s always good to help out, and we never turn down work that pays. It’s just… I always wanted to be a big shot, you know? Someone really famous.
Charmy: Well, maybe when we’re done, you’ll get your wish!
Vector: Heh, maybe.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVRR2C9Dw_k&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=24
Suddenly, Weasly descends from above in a new machine.
Wes: Looking for the best in personal defense? Try the Weasly CrystalMatic, guaranteed to protect you from anything that tries to do you harm!
Weasly forms a crystal around the machine, and attempts to ram into the heroes. They attempt to attack the crystal, but their attacks bounce off of it. Eventually, Weasly turns the crystal into a rotating shield surrounding his machine. Espio uses his abilities to disappear, and attacks the machine with his ninja weapons, causing it to be destroyed, with Weasly fleeing.
Vector: Alright, way to go, Esp!
Espio: That was nothing, Vector. I was just trying to protect you and the others.
Knuckles: Well, you definitely succeeded. Come on.
The heroes proceed onwards. As they do, they grab another Chaos Ring.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVRR2C9Dw_k&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=24
Afterwards, a large machine that resembles a pelican descends from above them, with Robotnik piloting it.
Robotnik: Well, it looks like you managed to free the walking suitcase, I’m impressed. Still, you won’t be going any further, and this time, there aren’t any plants you can use to cheat your way to victory!
Robotnik begins attacking them, using the talons of the machine, firing steel feathers, and by firing bombs from the mouth of the machine. Eventually, Espio tries to use his abilities to attack Robotnik, but he is grabbed by the machines talons.
Vector: Hey! Claws off my little bro, baldy!
Vector leaps on top of the machine, using his jaws to rip off the wing off the machine.
Robotnik: Wh- hey! Stop! Th-this is a delicate machine!
The Pelican crashes, destroying the duplicate inside.
Espio: That was… impressive, Vector.
Vector: Aw, it was nothing, Espio. I was just trying to protect you and the others.
At this, Espio smiles.
Vector: Welp, we should probably head back to the main area, see what’s next.
Espio: Right.
The heroes turn and head back to the main area.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtqLn6mld98&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=9
Eventually, the heroes arrive in the Speed Slider. Charmy is immediately entranced by the area.
Charmy: Oh! Look at all the rides! The roller coater, the bumper cars, the ferris wheel, it’s all so cool-!
Vector: Focus, kid! We’ve got people to save!
Charmy: Right!
The heroes begin to make their way through the area. Eventually, they come across another capsule with Mighty and Ray inside it. Mighty is trying to punch his way out of the capsule, to no success. The heroes approach, but are stopped by Heavy.
Knuckles: You again?
Heavy: That’s right. You might have gotten the drop on me before, but this time, you’re mine!
Heavy begins attacking them again, this time utilizing more attacks, such as charging at the heroes, and creating shockwaves by slamming his fists into the ground. Eventually, the heroes are able to force Heavy onto the rails of a roller coster, whose cart sends him flying away. Afterwards, the heroes free Mighty and Ray.
Mighty: Thanks for the help.
Knuckles: No problem. What’s your name?
Mighty: Well, I’m Mighty, and my pal here is Ray. Figure we could join up with you guys? You look like you need all the help you can get.
Knuckles: Alright, as long as you can take care of yourselves.
Mighty: Oh, don’t you worry about that.
Afterwards, the heroes proceed onwards.
Knuckles: So, what’s your story?
Mighty: Well, I used to live in Mercia with my family. My parents were bandits who stole from corrupt nobles and gave to the poor. One day, they were captured by the king, and he sentenced them to hang. I tried to save them but…
Knuckles: I see. I’m sorry. Nobody should have to go through something like that.
Mighty: Afterwards, I just… lost it. I went on a rampage through the castle. Would’ve beaten the king to death if it weren't for Ray and Matilda. After that, we left. Tried living in peace. Then Robotnik showed up, and my sister went missing. Me ‘n Ray’ve been trying to find her ever since.
Knuckles: Well, if she’s anything like you, I think you don’t have to worry about her getting hurt.
Mighty: Hope you're right.
Suddenly, the heroes notice a roller coaster being manned by Wes Weasly preparing to move.
Wes: It’s fast! It’s long! It’s the greatest roller coaster ever built by mobian! It’s the Wes Weasly Dread Coaster! Guaranteed to be completely rodent proof, or your money back!
Ray: I’ll take that bet!
Mighty: You sure, buddy?
Ray: Yeah! After all that time in the capsule, I could use some air time! Besides, I’ve been looking forward to putting Weasly in his place.
Mighty: Alright. Good luck, buddy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69bUl586Dow&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=23
Afterwards, the coaster takes off, with Ray flying after it. The coaster attempts to fire cannonballs at Ray, while sending out lighting bolts from the carts. Eventually, Ray is able to defeat the coaster, causing it to crash. Ray rejoins the others.
Mighty: Not bad, lil’ buddy!
Charmy: Yeah, that was awesome!
Knuckles: Alright, let’s keep moving.
The heroes keep making their way through the park, grabbing another Chaos Ring as they do.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69bUl586Dow&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=23
Eventually, the heroes come across Robotnik sitting in the middle of a large carousel-like attraction.
Robotnik: Welcome to the Egg-go-Round! Please, try to keep all arms, legs, tails, and vital organs inside the ride at all times. Thank you!
Suddenly, the ride begins to ascend into the sky, before it activates. Afterwards, the carts of the ride begin to move forward, with the heroes dodging them.
Mighty: I think I’ve got an idea for who to stop him! Do you trust me?
Knuckles: Uh, sure!
On hearing this, Mighty runs over to one of the carts and rips it from its poles, before chucking it at Robotnik’s control booth.
Robotnik: What the- hey! Stop that! This is private property!
Mighty begins ripping off carts and chucking them at Robotnik, eventually going through them all, and destroying Robotnik’s tower. This causes the ride to descend back to ground.
Mighty: Alrighty then, where to next?
The heroes leave the park.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhUL7Ixb5gQ&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=7
Later, we see the heroes approaching the Techno Tower.
Knuckles: Alright, let’s do this.
The heroes enter the Tower, and begin to make their way through it. On the way, they grab a Chaos Ring. Suddenly, Bomb drops down from above.
Knuckles: Oh, great. Let me guess, you’re here for a rematch?
Bomb: Ping.
Knuckles: Alright, let’s get this over with.
Bomb begins to attack the heroes, calling down other Bombs to try to attack the heroes, exploding and attacking at the same time. Eventually, they are able to send Bomb out through a hole in the tower. Afterwards, they continue forward.
Espio: You know, Knuckles, you haven’t told us much about yourself.
Knuckles: Well, I live on Angel Island, where I guard the Master Emerald from people who would use it for evil, though I haven’t always been the best at it.
Charmy: Angel Island? I thought that place was a fairy tale!
Knuckles: Oh, it’s real alright.
Espio: Well, what about your childhood? You’re parents.
Knuckles: Well, my parents loved me, and they tried to raise me as best as they could. Still, they didn’t always make it easy…
We flash back to Knuckles past. A younger Knuckles is in his room, where the sounds of arguing can be faintly heard. There’s a knock at the door, and an older Echidna sticks his head in.
Echidna: Mind if I step in?
Knuckles nods, and the older echidna enters the room, sitting next to Knuckles.
Knuckles: Why do mom and dad fight so much, Uncle Zach? Don’t they love each other?
Zach: Oh, you’re parents love each other alright. And more than that, they love you. But, they also have different opinions on what you should do with your future. Because of that, they can often get on each other's nerves.
Knuckles: What’s that mean?
Zach: Well, your father thinks that you should focus on your duty’s, while your mother thinks that you should focus on doing what makes you happy.
Knuckles: So… it’s my fault.
Zach: No! No, of course it isn’t. It never was, and it never will be.
Knuckles: Then why are mom and dad fighting?
Zach: Well, if there's one thing I’ve learned about your parents, it’s that they're the most stubborn people I know. But do you wanna know something?
Knuckles nods.
Zach: Once I become the Guardian, you won’t have to worry about all that complicated stuff. You’ll be free to do whatever you want.
Knuckles: But I thought only family could become the Guardian.
Zach: Well, considering I’m your father’s brother in law, I’d say that counts, wouldn't you?
Knuckles: Yeah, I guess so.
Zach: That’s the spirit.
Zach gives Knuckles a noogie, causing Knuckles to laugh, before calming down.
Knuckles: Thanks for being there for me, Uncle Zach.
Zach: Of course, Knux. I always will be.
We then return to the present.
Knuckles: After that, My parents went missing, and Uncle Zach went looking for them. So I ended up the Guardian by default.
Espio: I see. And what do you think of your parents now?
Knuckles: It’s… complicated.
Espio: Ah. We can talk later, if you’d prefer.
Knuckles: Yeah, sounds good.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lELaAZjJ5Uc&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=22
Suddenly, the heroes are ambushed by Weasly, in a machine with a projector on it.
Weasly: Ever wanted to really feel like you're in a movie? With the Weasly Project-o-Matic, you can! It produces effects so convincing, you’ll swear they’re real!
Weasly begins to project Badniks onto a screen while attempting to attack the heroes with the arms of the machine. Eventually, they are able to defeat Weasly’s machine, sending him running. The heroes then proceed further up the tower, gathering another Chaos Ring as they do.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lELaAZjJ5Uc&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=22
Eventually, they reach the top of the tower, where they see Robotnik piolting a machine resembling a scorpion.
Knuckles: It’s over, Robotnik. Surrender, and we might go easy on you.
Robotnik: Oh, come on Knuckles. You should know I don’t ever give up.
The scorpion begins attacking them, using it’s tail to try and impale them, while using it’s legs to strike them. Eventually, the heroes are able to defeat the machine, leaving Robotnik on the ground.
Knuckles: Last chance, Doctor.
Robotnik: Alright, alright. I surrender…
Suddenly, he pulls out a remote and pushes a button.
Robotnik: Suckers!
Robotnik laughs as the rooms fills with gas, causing the heroes to fall unconscious.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0zDRi-N-GQ&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=15
When the heroes wake up, they are in the middle of an arena, which is filled with the rest of the captured guests, who are wearing coolers around their necks. From the main stadium of the arena, Robotnik stands with a microphone.
Robotnik: Ladies, gentlemen, and everyone in between, welcome to the first ever Amazing Arena contest! Tonight, these losers will be going up against five waves of some of the most dangerous combatants I could find. Will they emerge victorious, or will they be taken out with the rest of the garbage? Let's find out! Round One!
Suddenly, a door opens on the other side of the arena, revealing Heavy and Bomb, who wave to the crowd.
Robotnik: First up, we have two of the most powerful robots ever built. The generals of my army, Heavy and Bomb!
Heavy: Yes! You may have beaten us one on one, but I doubt you’ll be able to defeat both of us at once!
Bomb: Ping.
Knuckles: Oh yeah? We’ll show you!
With that, the two groups begin to fight, with Heavy and Bomb using every trick they can to defeat the heroes. However, they are eventually defeated. Afterwards, they are carried out.
Robotnik: Hmph. Beginner's luck. Now for round two. Badniks, get in there!
A horde of badnik’s run into the arena. Eventually, the heroes are able to defeat the horde.
Robotnik: Alright. Round three!
Through the entrance, a large robot controlled by Wes Weasly enters.
Robotnik: Now, I don’t think I need to remind you about what’ll happen if you blow this, right Weasly?
Wes: Yep! You’ve got it boss! I won’t let you down.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ju0WQleH1-o&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=27
Weasly’s machine advances on the heroes, attempting to attack them with its long arms. The heroes begin attacking the stomach of the machine. Eventually, they are able to defeat the machine, leaving Weasly in the wreckage.
Wes: Alright, you win! I give up! Mercy, mercy please!
Robotnik: Ugh, useless. Alright, get more robots in there, I need to prepare something.
More robots drag Weasly out, before they start attacking the heroes. Eventually, they are victorious.
Robotnik: Well done. You managed to defeat all of the previous rounds. But now, you’ll have to face the champion of this arena… me!
Robotnik jumps out, controlling a suit that resembles a gladiator, wielding a mace and flail. Robotnik begins attacking, attempting to crush them with his weapons.
Robotnik: You know, Knuckles, I’m disappointed in you. I remember when you were the lone warrior, the sole guardian of the Master Emerald. And now look at you, relying on these nobodies to back you up. It’s sad.
Knuckles: I might have been alone before, but that solitude was not strength. I am more powerful now, because I have people who will stand by my side, and help pick me up when I fall down. Because now I know the power of the warrior is the power in his heart!
Knuckles thrusts his fists forward, before lighting comes out of them and strikes Robotnik, stunning him. This gives the team the advantage they need to defeat Robotnik. This causes the collars on the prisoners to deactivate, letting them escape.
Espio: What was that power?
Knuckles: Don’t know. But let’s worry about that later.
They all walk towards Robotnik.
Knuckles: It’s over, Robotnik. You’re all out of tricks.
Robotnik: Not yet. You see, there’s still one area of the park you haven’t seen yet.
As he says this, the ground beneath starts to shake. Suddenly, they are able to see a tower rising up from under the ground.
Robotnik: That’s where we’ll end this. See you there, “friend”.
With that, Robotnik is able to fly away before the heroes can stop him.
Vector: What now?
Knuckles: What else? We’ve gotta get to that tower!
The heroes rush out of the arena.
Later, the heroes make it to the tower, which is opened and unguarded.
Mighty: This is way too easy…
Charmy: Maybe Robotnik wants us to go in there?
Knuckles: Only one way to find out. Come on.
They enter the tower. Inside, they are shocked to see the Knothole Freedom Fighters all trapped in glass tubes.
Knuckles: So this is where you’ve been all this time…
Suddenly, Robotnik’s voice comes in over the intercom.
Robotnik: Impressive, isn’t it? I was planning on roboticising them earlier, but then you started causing problems, so I decided to wait until you were dealt with to do it. Speaking of dealing with you…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8R0Zsw3j7tk&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=29
Suddenly, Metal Sonic, Amy, Knuckles, and the Tails Doll all descend from above.
Robotnik: Get them!
The two groups begin fighting, with Charmy and Saffron fighting the Tails Doll, Mighty and Ray fighting Metal Knuckles, and Espio and Vector taking on Metal Amy. Meanwhile, Metal Sonic places himself in an apparatus, and begins using various weapons to attack the heroes, such as sawblades, spiked tails, missiles, and spikes. Knuckles begins using these against the robots. He knocks Tails Doll into the spikes, sends Metal Knuckles into the sawblades, letting Metal Amy get clobbered by the tails, and finally sending a missile towards Metal Sonic. This breaks the machine, and frees the Freedom Fighters. They all run out of the tower before it explodes.
Sonic: Whew… thanks for the help, Knucklehead.
Knuckle: Yeah, well, now we’re even.
The two laugh, before Metal Sonic lands in front if them.
Sonic: Oh sure, just try it, Metal. I beat you all the time on my own. You really think you can take on all of us by yourself?
Robotnik: It’s a good thing he’s not alone!
They all turn to Robotnik, floating in his Eggmobile, holding a stone.
Robotnik: Metal, catch!
He tosses the stone to Metal who is able to catch it. Suddenly, he begins to shake and spark, before his body begins to glow, and expand. Eventually, their body stops, now gigantic and red.
Sonic: OK, he might stand a better chance now.
Suddenly, the Chaos Rings emerge from Knuckles, before they fly into the bodies of Knuckles, Vector, Espio, Charmy, Saffron, Mighty, and Ray.
Vector: Woah, what is this?!
Charmy: It feels… good. Really good!
Knuckles: I see… this is why I was given the rings: So that we can fight together! Everyone, it’s up to us to stop that monster and save everyone. Are you with me!?
Everyone: Yeah!
Knuckles: Alright, let’s do this!
The heroes use the power of the rings to fly after Metal Sonic Kai.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEc-tP4VbEQ&list=PLvNp0Boas720u1qnpxmeBe8jARE-4Oghz&index=31
The heroes begin to attack Metal, who retaliates by trying to attack them with his claws, while also shooting balls of energy from his chest. Eventually, the heroes are able to break off Metal's arms and legs. Afterwards, he begins to fire massive lasers from his chest. The heroes are able to dodge these attacks, and eventually, they all pierce through his chest at the same time, destroying the stone in his chest and defeating him. Metal shrinks back down to normal size and is caught by Robotnik.
Robotnik: You… you’ll pay for this!
Robotnik flies away.
Sonic: Alright, Knuckles! That was awesome! I mean, I probably could have done better, but…
Sally: Sonic!
Sonic: Kidding, Sal.
Knuckles looks in thought.
Espio: What’s on your mind?
Knuckles: I learned recently that I can’t defend the Master Emerald on my own. The problem was, I didn’t know where I could find people to help me. Until now, that is.
Espio: Are you saying-
Knuckles: Yes. I want to ask all of you to come to Angel Island with me, and help me guard the Master Emerald.
Charmy: Are you kidding!? Yes! Yes yes yes yes yes a hundred times yes!
Saffron: Well, if Charmy’s going, so am I!
Vector: As long as I can keep my Agency going in the meantime, you can count on me!
Espio: Very well. You have my assistance as well.
Mighty: Well, on the one hand, I still wanna find my sister. But on the other hand, she’d probably want me to make some new friends instead of worrying about her all the time, so… alright, I’ll help.
Ray: You can count me in too!
Charmy: Oh, if we’re all gonna be a team, we need a cool team name! Any ideas?
Vector: No need kid!
Vector clears his throat.
Vector: By the power vested in me by myself, I hereby welcome all of you to the Chaotix Detective Agency!
Vector extends his hand forward. The Chaotix all place their hands on his, before raising their hands. Afterwards, they all turn to leave.
Charmy: Hey, I’ve been meaning to ask, what’s with the name Chaotix?
Vector: Because we’ll take on any case, no matter how Chaotic it might be.
Charmy: Oh, that makes sense! I think.
This gets a laugh out of the group as they leave. They don’t notice a lynx in a white lab coat setting up a tent on the Isolated Isles.
Lynx: Yes, this place is perfect. I think I’ll stay here a while.
Meanwhile, Robotnik is still flying away with Metal Sonic.
Robotnik: Agh! Stupid rings, stupid echidna! Just look at what they did to you! Oh, when I get my hands on them, I’ll-
Suddenly, Metal lets out a beep that sounds apologetic. Robotnik lets out a deep sigh and places his hand against Metal’s head.
Robotnik: It’s OK, you did your best. The Power Stone was a good test, but clearly, it wasn’t what we needed. Whatever. Next time, we’re going to tear those vermin apart, won’t we, son?
Metal lets out an enthused beep at this.
Robotnik: That’s my boy! Come on, let’s go home.
The two continue flying off.