Well then, it seems the drama is spilling over into the films. Case in point, the sequel to Adventure.
Disclaimer: I do not own Sonic The Hedgehog or any of the characters, they are owned by Sega and Sonic Team.
February 1st 2000.
The tabloids had been merciless ever since Rouge had announced her divorce from Knuckles.
Their relationship status had effected everyone else more than they thought.
Now, everyone was betting on how long Sonic and Amy's relationship would last, as well as Tails and Mina's.
However, relationship troubles wouldn't compare to the troubles the studio was facing.
With the looming threats of old rivals as well as a new one set to arrive the next year, Sega was already struggling to get back on their feet, despite their new film line and brand's massive success.
They had managed to tarnish their name in such a short amount of time.
While they were once on top and in first, it didn't last and they were now at a dismal third place.
Still, this year would be their last shot to make their comeback, and they weren't going to waste it.
The executives were gathered, all seated at a large table which stretched across the room.
"Alright everyone, as all of you know, this October marks a turning point in our business, which means over the course of spring and summer this year, we have to go all out and try to reestablish our brand and fan base." Bunnie explained.
The execs showed their reports and went over upcoming projects, both new properties and sequels to franchises they had started.
The question was, could they follow up Adventure in time?
"This is our biggest franchise, there's no way we can get a whole a film shot, edited, polished and promoted in less than a year, this isn't like the old days." One of the execs said.
Bunnie sighed, wishing it were as simple as it used to be.
"How soon can we start production?" Bunnie asked.
"We can get everything together by this March." He said.
"We've had one of our top writers working on a script since Adventure's release." Another one told her.
"I assume Rouge will be directing." Bunnie said.
"Yeah, with the press she's been getting lately, this could help progress the series even further." He said.
"Ms. Rabbot." Her assistant addressed her, as she walked in.
"Yes." Bunnie said.
"Rouge is here to see you." She said.
"Perfect, send her in." Bunnie told her.
The assistant hurried out and a minute later, Rouge entered the room.
"Rouge, good to see you, have a seat." Bunnie said.
Rouge pulled up a chair and sat down, stating her business.
"I understand that a sequel is in the works." Rouge said.
"However, as you all know, Mr. Echidna and I have had some complications in our relationship…and because of this, I do not wish to direct this film." Rouge told them.
They were all shocked, talking to each other and over each other after hearing Rouge's words, their voices filling the room.
Bunnie managed to quiet the room and granted Rouge her request.
However, Bunnie also wished for Rouge to hear the writer's pitch and Rouge agreed.
In walked a familiar face, Rouge smiling when she saw him.
"Ray!" She said, in surprise.
"It's good to see you again Rouge, haven't seen you in almost five years." Ray said.
"I know, I saw some of the films you've written for, you've really got a lot of talent." Rouge told him.
"Thank you." Ray said.
"So, you have a script for the new movie?" Rouge asked.
"Yeah, Sonic Adventure 2, I think it's my best script yet and I want you to be a part of it." Ray told her.
"What do you mean?" Rouge asked.
"I've written the part of a jewel thief with some spy overtones and I think you would be perfect for the role." Ray told her.
"Ray, I appreciate the offer, but I know Knuckles will be a part of this production and I just can't face him right now." Rouge told him.
"I know, but hear me out." Ray said.
"In this film, you and him would have a rivalry going all throughout the film, location after location, both of you trying to best each other, until finally it culminates in a fight between you and him." Ray tells her.
"You'll finally be able to face him, head on, no holding back, all of it playing out on screen without any real life problems." Ray told her.
Rouge became intrigued by the idea.
While she had managed to move on, part of her was still saddened and angered by what Knuckles had done and she wanted him to know it.
This may have been the closure she needed.
"Maybe it's not such a bad idea." Rouge said.
Ray smiled, excited to have her on board.
"Great, now all I have to do is cast the last role." Ray said.
"Last role?" Rouge asked.
"Yeah, it's one more new character I had in mind." Ray said.
"Knuckles is okay and all, but I felt like Sonic needs a real rival, someone on his level, someone to match him point for point and maybe even be stronger." Ray told her.
Rouge thought about it for a moment before a thought came to mind.
A grin appeared on her face as the thought of a dark hedgehog came to mind.
"I may know someone." Rouge said.