Fall of Acorn Kingdom, Rise of the Empire
(3237)
The Kingdom of Acorn is one of few across the land of Mobius that resided on Westside Island. It's current ruler, Maximillian Acorn ruled justly and led his Kingdom through several great trials and triumphs. Thanks to him, the Kingdom rose and grew into something grand, and large. It flourished for many great years, but as with many great kingdoms, comes great wars.
While faced with rivaling Kingdoms and evil warlords, Maximillian did everything within his power to protect his people through and through. However they were soon faced with an equal force of power, that being the United Federation. It did not start off immediately, both getting to know each other before attacking. It did not help that the United Federation already had a shaky past as is either, having more violent acts and questionable rumors floating around with their name in it. It wasn't long until the war did start when an envoy from Maximillian was attacked and killed by the machines made by the Federation.
The United Federation claimed that they had struck first, but Maximillian couldn't believe it. Thus the great war had begun. It lasted for six years, both sides losing resources and people for their efforts in the war. It would have lasted even longer, but when things seemed dire, a betrayal from within the United Federation had happened. The traitor in question was none other than a scientist of the United Federation's army, known as a G.U.N., who had desired traded info to Acron Kingdom in favor of refuge and a place within the King's Court. A man by the name of Ivo Robotnik.
With his family in mind, Maximillian agreed to Ivo's recruitment. In a few short months, thanks to the efforts of Maximillian's Royal Army, Ivo's previous tampering and a well thought out plan, the United Federation fell apart. With their Kingdom reduced to ruins, the remnants of the United Federation scattered apart, either to other Kingdoms or out across Mobius. It was a dark day won for King Maximillian and his people. He had kept his word to the scientist as thanks for ending the war, even going as far to make the man part of his Royal Science crew. Years have passed since that day and the Acorn Kingdom had made several leaps in technology and expanded its Kingdom further out with many citizens to show for it.
However as all great Kingdoms grow, so too does the chance of war. This war however was over before it had even begun.
(Acorn Kingdom, Green Hills)
Green Hill was a giant field blessed with greenery and beautiful blue lakes. Topographically, it varies from short mountains; to being a mountainous area with massive mountains, sloping cliffs, giant peaks, and tight paths high up in the sky supported by natural pillars. It was easily one of the more iconic lands owned by Kingdom Acorn and it was beloved all the same.
While small animals could be seen walking around, wandering around and playing. One rabbit could be seen trying to pull a carrot out the ground, until it noticed a shadow overhead. It jumped out of the way as a large metal foot stomped down on the ground.
Standing overhead was a solid machine of humanoid and highly futuristic appearance standing over two meters tall. It was slim and almost triangular, had three-toed hook-like feet and their heads are shaped like disks with a glowing light blue line on the front for had a small machine gun for it's left hand and a missile launcher for it's right hand. Their heads are shaped like disks with a glowing light blue line on the front for eyes. It was coated in rusted silver and black paint, but was functioning all the same.
There were several of them walking around, trying and failing to shoot the roaming animals. The same rabbit was currently looking around and spotted a free carrot. It rushed over for it only for one of the robots to stomp the ground and force it to fall over. It looked up to find itself surrounded by the machines, their machine guns pointed down at it. The rabbit had no time to think as the machines fired down without mercy. Smoke filled the area as the machines topped their assault and looked down at their handy work.
Which was nothing more than a shot up looking ground.
"You okay little guy?" The rabbit opened it's eyes, surprised to find itself alive and well. It looked up with wide eyes at their savior.
It was a slim Mobian hedgehog with blue fur that covered most of his body, and peach skin that covered his arms, muzzle, insides of his ears and front torso. He had small, triangular ears on top of his head, six long quills on the back of his head, two spines protruding from his back behind his shoulders, and a short tail. He was wearing a white open vest, black cargo pants, dark worn out brown gloves and boots.
This was Sonic the Hedgehog.
"You don't need to worry any more, you can leave these scrap bots to me." Sonic said, edging for the rabbit to run away. He turned to the bots and gave them a small smirk. "You guys are in for a smashing."
The robots looked at each other for a moment and turned back to shoot only for two of them to be torn through by a blue blur. The other bots stopped in place and aimed around the hedgehog as a blue streak circled around them. One by one, the machines were destroyed and reduced to pieces scattered across the ground. The very last one was still trying to find the hedgehog only to spot him standing right in front of him.
It made a move to fire at him only to have it's rusted and outdated arm kicked off. Sonic whistled and he watched the arm fly while the robot turned back while reading it's missile...only for the launcher to fall backwards and shoot up in the air. Now with no real weapon in hand, it made a move to try and tackle Sonic only for the hedgehog to kick it away. It slid back and looked to find Sonic gone. Glancing around, it soon looked up and saw the hedgehog up in the air with a smirk. He soon curled up into a ball and spun around while dashing down at it. It raised it's broken arm to stop him only to have its head caved in almost instantly, followed up with the rest of it's body. Sonic uncurled himself and looked behind to see the robot fall apart.
"Heh. These guys are a total joke." Sonic said while rubbing under his nose. He approached the machine's remains and knelt down. "Still, you're getting closer to home. Can't believe that there are so many of you guys roaming around." It was the truth. Remnants of the Federation's Machines still roamed around with no master, but old orders still programmed. "I better let Uncle Chuck know that I took down another group. Then I can catch up with the others and grab a good old fashioned Chilli Dog."
With that in mind, Sonic dashed away from the scene, leaving behind a blue streak. As he left, a floating robotic eye came from the bushes, it's eye glowing red and flashing.
(Acorn Kingdom, Uncle Chuck's Workshop)
Sir Charles Hedgehog was a lot of things to the Kingdom of Acorn. A Royal Knight. A Scientist. Yet he always took his title as Uncle very seriously. Hence why he was used to being called Uncle Chuck or just Chuck.
He was very similar to Sonic in a lot of ways, though there were a few notable differences. For starters his fur was much lighter than his nephew's and he had a thick white mustache with eyebrows to match. He was currently wearing a grey long sleeved shirt, a black vest with a blue acorn on the back, brown slacks, white boots and a pair of small glasses.
'I should be finished now.' Charles thought while putting down a screwdriver. He was simply repairing his own phone after dropping it once again. 'Hmmp. Twelve seconds? I must be losing my touch.'
Charles here was part of the Royal Science team and took his job seriously when it was needed. In their time of peace, he really just kept things up to date and continued creating new things to benefit the Kingdom. Thankfully thanks to being part of a team, he never felt like he was overworked and he could invent whatever he desired with limited restrictions. Of course there were some issues, such as King Acorn requesting more and more defensives of the mechanical kind.
As a former Knight himself, he saw the flaws in such a thing. Replacing manpower with machines never turned out well, but he had no choice to follow through with the order. Which had led to the creation of the Swat-Bots, a humanoid like machine that came in many variations.
Coated with a shiny metallic black armor covering them, they stood at roughly six feet tall, with domed-shaped heads with a spike protruding from the top and viewed the world with a single red-tinted optical visor. If not thanks to Robotnik's help, he would have feared the machines going awry and overreacting to situations. Thankfully they worked as they should, much to his relief. Some were even assigned to help out the elderly much to his relief. Even he had to admit, it was a good idea from the King...even though the Knight in him told him that it wasn't necessary.
He let out a sigh and looked over at his desk, picking up a picture frame. It was a picture of another hedgehog, one that looked close to Sonic, but with a patch of brown hair on top of his head. Said hedgehog was standing next to a younger version of Charles, both wearing uniforms for the Acorn Army.
This was Jules Hedgehog, Charles' Brother and Sonic's father.
"Oh Jules, if only the war didn't take you, I wouldn't be plagued with nightmares." Charles admitted out loud. Jules was one of the great Heroes that had helped end the war at the cost of his own life. It wasn't fair in his eyes, to not only lose his brother, but for Sonic to lose his father as well at a young age. Bernadette, Jules' wife and Sonic's mother shed tears for weeks, almost drowning herself into a deep depression. He almost followed through the same, but thanks to Sonic, they had managed to pull themselves together. "But don't you worry, I'm doing all I can to make the Kingdom safe. Not only just to prevent our family from suffering again, but to make sure no other can as well. I only wish you could be here to see it...and maybe talk back to our King again, but I think your son inherited that."
"Uncle Chuck!"
"Speaking of back talk." Charles chuckled as he put down the photo. He turned around and was greeted with the sight of Sonic walking into the room. "Good to see that you remembered not to run into my workspace my boy."
"I had to learn someday. Besides, it beats crashing into stuff." Sonic said while walking over to his Uncle's desk. "Just thought you should know that I ran to more of those old bots from the Federation again. At least maybe twenty or fourty, I lost count while fighting them."
"More of them? That makes it the forty-sixth report today." Charles said, a growing worry building up. Was the Federation trying to make some kind comeback? No, they were scattered across the wind with no chance of coming back. 'It can't be a coincidence can it? So many of those old gunner bots coming in this direction after so long is strange enough.'
"Uncle Chuck? You alright?" Charles shook his head from his thoughts upon hearing his nephew. He was clearly concerned and for good reason.
"I'm fine my boy. Just thinking about how I should bring this up with our beloved King." Maybe this time he'll listen to him about an on coming threat. For now though. "How about you tell me more about your morning run?"
"Well it's not like I did anything special outside of knocking around the bots out by Green Hill. Still as nice as ever though." Sonic said while taking a seat. "Still, I got what I wanted for mom's birthday at least."
"Ah! I better make sure I do the same thing." Charles said while rubbing the back of head nervously.
"You got two weeks, I say that's more than enough time to get mom a gift." Sonic said, reassuring his Uncle.
"I hope so. You know how scary she can be." Charles said while laughing. "...Don't tell your mother I said that."
"Don't worry, you're safe Unc." Sonic said, spinning around in the chair.
"...Actually, Sonic. I have something for you." Sonic stopped in place and looked at his Uncle curious. The older hedgehog opened out a set of keys before tossing them to his surprised nephew. "I think you're old enough and...mature enough to officially own her."
"You mean the Tornado?!" Sonic exclaimed, surprise and excitement in his tone.
"Well you already fly it as well I do. Besides I don't use it as much as I did back then, I can't let it rust after all." Charles explained while walking out the door. Sonic got up and followed right after him. They were in a small hanger of sorts, walls coated in tools and boxes of parts, but the real prize was in the center of the room.
The Tornado is an old vintage biplane with a red fuselage and two gray, red-tipped main wings attached with a pair of poles on both sides. The red fuselage has a power plant with a yellow tractor screw and the word "SONIC" written in white on both sides with stretchy F-letter labels underlining them. It was also a two seater, having been readjusted to fit in an extra person. Charles did that when he first began teaching Sonic.
"Are...you really sure Uncle Chuck?" Sonic asked, still surprised. He may have flown her well, but he always needed help when it came to maintaining her properly. Plus his Uncle owned it for...well forever!
"I'm sure, my boy. You always did say you wanted to explore Mobius to it's fullest, I see no reason why you can't use the Tornado to help out." Charles said, laughing as Sonic pulled him into a tight hug. "However I will need something done first."
"And what would that be?" Sonic asked, more than ready to help.
"You see, I plan to make a special trip to a certain set of Islands. The Starfall Islands to be exact." Charles said, a hint of excitement in his voice. It was the kind that meant he discovered something big. "I've recently uncovered old logs that explained that there was an ancient civilization of people with technology more advanced than what we have today."
"Are you sure about that? Last I checked ancient didn't really mean advance." Sonic said with a bit of sass.
"You'd be surprised what has been lost to history my boy." Charles said while laughing. "I plan to head out there with Ivo, but I'd like you to come along in case there's any trouble."
"Well you don't have to convince me! I'm always up for an adventure." Sonic said while offering a thumbs up.
"Don't I know it. I've already set up the Tornado with the destination in mind, so don't field with that." Charles said firmly, making Sonic nod. He may have been a troublemaker back then, but he was better now. "Good. I know I'm asking a lot, but I couldn't think of anyone better to ask."
"Thanks, Uncle Chuck! I won't let you down" Sonic said, grateful. He couldn't wait to tell his friends about it. "Heh, now you definitely have to make sure to get Mom a gift in time."
"That I do. For now however I have to report to a meeting soon enough." Charles said as Sonic released him. "The princess will be attending and I would rather not have her first meeting be dull."
"The Princess? What's she like?" Sonic asked, actually curious. He only saw her before, but never really interacted with her. Mostly because she was always guarded and rarely left the castle. "She's not like her father is she?"
"No, no, thank goodness no. Sally is more similar to her mother, thankfully." Charles said with a chuckle. He wasn't sure the Kingdom could handle two Maximillians. "She's quite friendly and well mannered, not to mention she believes in a sense of duty rather than luxury. I think you two would get along well."
"Well you're more than welcome to introduce us next chance you get." Sonic said with a smile. He always liked making new friends after all. "Well I gotta go meet up with my pals, you got that meeting after all."
"Don't forget to call your mother too. She'll worry sick if you don't tell her anything." Charles said, watching his Nephew nod. He was then gone in a blur, making the older hedgehog shake his head. "That boy, always in a rush. All well, I best get going myself." He walked towards the door, stopping briefly to look at one of his first model inventions. The Robotizer, something that was meant to sustain life for the ill and injured. Something that should have worked on Jules, but unfortunately didn't. "...It's in better hands."
Who else is better than his partner, Ivo Robotnik afterall?
(Acorn Kingdom, The Royal Castle)(Sally Acorn's Room)
The Acorn Family led the Kingdom for many generations, having led many to victory for their choices. Royalty flowed through their blood and it showed for good reason. No one ever dared to challenge the position for Kinghood, out of either fear or respect. For the child of Maximillian and Alicia Acorn, Sally Acorn, she was preparing herself for when the time came for her to take up such an important position. Which was why she was happy to finally be part of her father's meeting for the first time.
Sally was a brown-furred Mobian chipmunk with auburn hair that connected to the stripe going down her back and ending on her tail. She had small, triangular ears with light brown canals on top of her head, and her face has a lighter brown patch in which her large blue eyes and muzzle with a small black nose are settled. She was currently wearing a nice blue dress with yellow trimmings, blue sandals and a golden crown with a red jewel embedded into it.
And yet she hated it all.
"I know I have to look my best, but do I have to wear all this? It's a meeting after all, not a ball." Sally said to herself while looking in a mirror. She felt overdressed for something so important, like a doll put up for display. "But I did promise to look my best to get in there."
Sally didn't like to be considered a princess, but she was limited with what she was allowed to do. It was her birthright and she had to follow through with many things. Such as being forced to pick out a husband, being trained as a mere guide for her King and overall being a figurehead. It wasn't ideal for someone like her, who wanted to actually lead her people and not be a backseat Queen.
What she did do in her freetime involved learning about certain skills, such as sword training and programming. However even that was limited thanks to her father, who had wanted her to be ready to represent the Acorn Family. It was sad, but she'd followed through if only because it was truly her duty. At least it was ever since her older brother, Elias had run away from home and was never seen since then.
She never did figure out why exactly, but she did know her father and brother had gotten into a nasty fight before Elias left. In truth, she held a bit of spite towards the both of them. Her father for driving her brother away and towards Elias for leaving her without so much as a goodbye. It made things difficult for her ever since, but she stayed strong and pulled through nonetheless.
Sally was in the middle making sure her dress was one straight for the hundredth time before a knock was heard on her door. "Come in!"
The door opened revealing one of many guards that had filled their castle. Naturally he bowed to her annoyance before speaking. "Forgive me, Princess, but I have a message from your father."
"What does he wish to say?" Sally asked politely.
"He says that he regrets saying that the meeting will not require you due to turning into a security matter. You are free to do as you please within the Castle." The Knight said, keeping his head down until he was allowed to move.
Sally in the meantime wasn't surprised, just disappointed. It wouldn't be the first time she was blown off in favor of something else. Her father always took his position seriously, but as a father he needed a lot of work.
"...Thank you, you may take your leave. I wish to be alone for now." Sally said calmly. Once the Knight was gone, she tore off her crown and tossed it at the wall, landing on her bed. "So much for actually learning something."
Walking away from the mirror, she went straight for her closest to change. She wasn't gonna waste time in the dress any longer than she needed to be. As she was changing, she heard her room door open, but thought nothing of it. Her guards wouldn't let anyone in without reason.
Once she was done, she stepped out wearing a closed azure vest exposing her midriff, and a black crop-top with a white trim hidden underneath. Black, skintight pants, with white rimming, azure knee-high boots with white cuffs and a pair of white gloves with a blue bracelet.
"That is quite the causal look, dear." Sally was surprised as she turned to see her mother on her bed. Her Mother, Alicia Acorn, was very similar to Sally with the exception of her hair being tied into a ponytail, slightly taller and older. She was wearing an orange dress, accented in gold jewelry with a golden headpiece. "Though I don't think your father would approve of you walking around in that."
"Apparently father doesn't approve of me doing a lot of things." Sally said sourly, while sitting down next to her mother. "Forgive me, Mother. I know I shouldn't be angry with him, but..."
"He makes things difficult. Trust me, I know that feeling quite often." Alicia said, while placing a hand on Sally's shoulder. "But I know he loves us all the same regardless. It's why he works so hard not only for our safety, but the safety of every person of our Kingdom. You'll understand when he passes the crown down on to you."
"I don't know if I'll have that kind responsibility if I'm forced into marriage." Sally said honestly, hoping to not offend her mother. Thankfully she didn't upon hearing her laughter.
"While I may not make any big decisions on my account, your father always addresses me on every thought he has for the Kingdom. When your time comes, you'll be far more respected for your position than you will expect." Alicia reassured, getting a smile out of her daughter. "If he's keeping you out of the meeting, it's for a good reason I'm sure. He truly wants the best for you overall."
"I know. He's the King after all, I shouldn't be giving him a hard time." Sally said, letting out a sigh. She wouldn't have voiced her thoughts to him anyway. The last thing she wanted was to start a fight that would leave them both hurting. Thankfully she had her mother to help out. "I only wish I was allowed to do more."
"..." Alicia was silent for a moment, thinking it over. She then stood up from the bed and went over to Sally's closet, confusing her. The Queen stepped back out with a blue flat cap before placing it on her daughter's head, fixing it in place. "Perhaps some fresh air will give you some time to clear your head."
"I don't think I need a cap to go into the garden, mother." Sally said, confusing.
"I was thinking more of being outside the castle walls, dear." Alicia said, taking joy in Sally's shocked expression.
"B-but what would father say if I was caught out there?" Sally asked, a mixture of worry and anticipation in her voice.
Her father had used to let her head outside the castle walls, with her own Knights to protect her of course. However after his fight with Elias, he had banned her from leaving herself. Either to prevent the family and the kingdom from losing face should she leave it or simply to protect her, Sally never knew for sure. She always assumed it was a mixture of both however.
"You leave him to me. You do need some friends after all." Alicia teased, making Sally pout. "Well it is true. Outside of Nicole and Ovoid, you don't have anyone to talk to."
"I wouldn't exactly call Ovoid and I friends." Sally muttered to herself. Ovoid "Eggette" Robotnik, daughter of Ivo Robotnik, fell under the category of being a fake friend. She was self absorbed, narcissistic and overall just a mean person in general. Exactly what you would expect from a spoiled princess. Never mind the fact it always felt off being around her. "But, I see your point. It's not healthy for me, but I don't see dad being okay with me making friends with the people."
"Like I said, leave your father to me. You're old enough to make decisions like this on your own and I think it's high time he realizes this." Alicia said, helping her daughter on her feet. "Who knows, maybe you'll meet your own prince charming amongst the crowd."
"Mom!" Sally exclaimed with a small blush on her face while her mother laughed freely.
"Don't be so prude my dear." Alicia said after calming down. "I have a feeling you'll make plenty of true friends out there. People you'll learn to laugh and cry with as you please. You just need to put forth the effort to do the same for them when they need it as well."
"I...thank you!" Sally couldn't help to bring her mother into a hug in which she returned. After a moment the two pulled away, happiness radiating off of Sally, something that Alicia loved to see.
"Now, how about we get you going." Alicia said, leading her daughter out of the room.
(Acorn Kingdom, Watt's Cafe)
Sonic sped through the streets of the Acorn Kingdom in haste, dodging people and vehicles alike to reach his destination. He soon stopped right in front of a shop and entered inside. He walked by the tables, waving to some of the patrons as he passed.
"Looks like you're late again, Sonic." The Hedgehog perked up at the voice and allowed a smile to come on his face. There at the table were three of his friends. Rotor Walrus, Bunnie Rabbit and Antoine D'Coolette.
Rotor was a plump, Mobian Walrus with light blue fur and gray skin on the stomach and his face. His eyes were bright green and had noticeable fangs sticking out from his mouth. He was wearing a brown bomber jacket, blue jeans, brown boots, a pair of yellow framed glasses and a yellow cap to match. He spent most of his days inventing his own things, being quite intelligent for his age to where even Charles was impressed.
Bunnie was a golden Mobian Rabbit with light orange-brown/blonde hair and vibrant emerald-green eyes. A pair of floppy ears on her and a cotton white tail. She was wearing a pink top with a brown jacket and blue denim shorts, and brown cowboy boots with a hat to match. She worked on the farmland for the Kingdom, but wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty for a fight.
Finally, Antoine was a brown-furred Mobian Coyote with tan facial fur and blonde, styled hair and eyebrows, his eyes being blue. He was wearing a blue jacket with red trim, gold pads on the shoulders, brown slacks and red boots. Most notably was the sword strapped by his side. He was a rookie for the Royal Guard, being trained up to a noble knight just like his father, Armand D'Coolette.
"And here I thought you were supposed to be the quick one Sugarhog." Bunnie teased.
"Not at everything, Bunnie." Sonic said casually while taking a seat. "You didn't order yet did you?"
"We did, but we ordered you two Chili Dogs. Sonic Style of course." Rotor said.
"Nice! Thanks guys." Sonic said with a wide grin.
"What kept you from coming?" Antoine asked, curiosity showing.
"Oh you know, the usual. Went for a run, smashed some robots in Green Hill, checked up with Uncle Chuck, got the Tornado." Sonic said, casually.
"You fought more robots!" Antoine said in shock.
"You got the Tornado!" Rotor exclaimed in glee.
"Yeah. It's been a busy morning, but I can still keep going." Sonic said, not all too bothered.
"To zink even more machines are still roaming from ze Federation." Antoine said thoughtfully. His own commander had mentioned it briefly, but was told that due to them being outdated, they weren't a priority unless they came too close to the Kingdom. "I fear what zis means in the future."
"You don't actually think something is gonna happen, do you?" Bunnie asked, skeptical.
"I don't know Bun, I'm with T'wan on this one." Sonic admitted, remembering how concerned his Uncle looked. Normally he would brush it off, but he could only ignore the feeling in his back for so long.
"I think you guys are overreacting." Rotor said honestly. "I mean, if someone is sending them then all they are doing is wasting their resources. Not to mention, they are outdated compared to the Swatbots in the Kingdom. They're a work of art."
"Eh hum." Antoine coughed.
"And we have the best Knights to help defend us if a crisis was happening too." Rotor said with an eye roll.
"Zat is very true my friend." Antoine said proudly, ignorant to the stares he received. "With well trained knights such as myself and others, no threat that dares come to our home shall pay before zey has ze chance."
"Maybe we shouldn't keep talking about it out in the open like this." Bunnie said, keeping her tone down. Last thing they wanted was to start up some news that may have not even been true. "Besides, it's the King that has to worry about that kinda stuff, not us."
"I guess, I just don't like seeing Uncle Chuck worried that's all." Sonic said before shaking his head. "But hey, enough about all that. I smell a pair of Chili Dogs coming our way."
"You're not you if you don't know when there's a Chili Dog nearby." Rotor said honestly.
Their food arrived not long after, the group of friends eating to their hearts contents. Sonic had also mentioned his future trip to the Starfall Islands with his Uncle and Ivo. Naturally they were surprised, with Rotor asking to come along. He of course was gonna have to take it up with Charles first and foremost, which he understood. Once all was said and done, they soon began to make their leave. Antoine left first, having to get to a meeting involving a training exercise. Rotor left next, wanting to catch up on some projects of his. Finally Bunnie had to leave for some errands that needed to be completed.
All that was Sonic, who was waiting impatiently for an extra order of Chili Dogs. Once they were finished, Sonic made his way out the door only to immediately crash into someone. They both fell backwards, though the Hedgehog managed to grab his meal before it hit the ground.
'First time in forever I get to walk around the kingdom and the first thing I do is walk into somebody. Great.' Sally thought while holding her head. However she noticed a hand outstretched to her. "Huh?"
"Hey you okay? Sorry for bumping into you." Sonic said, a smile on his face. Sally waited for a moment before taking the hand and allowed herself to be helped up.
"I'm fine, forgive me for walking into you." Sally said politely. However she quickly took notice of how familiar the hedgehog looked. 'He almost looks like Sir Charles. Are they related?'
"No problem. I should have looked where I was going." Sonic said, walking out the cafe. However he did a double take at her and narrowed his gaze. "Say have I seen you somewhere before."
"U-um! No, I'm new here." Sally said, turning away and lowering her hat. She didn't think she would get recognized at all. "Well I should be-"
"Princess Sally, your mother has sent me a message to remind you to keep yourself scarce and not draw attention to yourself." Sally and Sonic stopped altogether at the sound of the voice. It seemed like that no one else heard, but it didn't stop the fear that came across Sally's face. She pulled out a grey, hand held computer unit with a small glare. "...I see that I told you this at a bad time."
'You think, Nicole!' Sally thought, annoyed with the bad timing of it all. She would forever love the A.I. gifted to her, but she sometimes didn't know when to act.
"Wait you-" Sonic was interrupted once he was pulled into an alleyway, gripping his food bag. "Hey easy! You almost made me drop my lunch."
"Please don't tell anyone you saw me out here!" Sally begged, not wanting to cause any trouble. She really didn't want to be overcrowded by people or worse. Have to deal with her father finding out."I...I just wanted to be out of the castle and actually see the Kingdom. I ask that you keep this a secret. I'll even ensure payment for-"
"Woah, woah! Easy there!" Sonic said quickly in an attempt to calm the girl down. "I don't want anything like that. You're more than allowed to walk around in your own kingdom."
"...Are you sure?" Sally asked, surprised. Not that she thought ill of the people, but she expected that there were some that would take advantage of a situation like this.
"I'm sure. You definitely don't need my permission to do it. Heck, if you want to stay hidden, it's none of my business." Sonic said honestly. "Besides, it's not my style to do something like that."
"I see. Forgive me for assuming the worst." Sally said, still surprised.
"Don't worry about it." Sonic said, not at all bothered. "Where are you heading anyway? I mean, Watts is great and all, but I wouldn't figure it being a place a princess would head off to."
"I'm merely looking around, that's all." Sally said, trying to hide her annoyance at the comment. Just because she was a princess, didn't mean she ate only fancy things. 'But if I didn't have Nicole on me, I probably would have gotten lost out here. Have I really been to the castle for so long that I barely remember my own kingdom.'
"In that case, maybe you hit up the park." Sonic suggested out of nowhere. "The good ole Lake of Rings is still there, though it doesn't glow like it used to."
"That's unfortunate. Are you heading there yourself?" Sally asked.
"Yup. Figured I'd take in the scenery before I go off on another run." Sonic explained.
"Would...you mind guiding me there?" Sally asked, not wanting to be a bother. In all honesty she probably shouldn't be asking a random stranger she had never heard of to escort her anywhere. Yet she never once got a bad vibe off him while speaking, not to mention he was mostly polite with her.
Sonic stopped to think about it. He normally would have said no, if only because he didn't like going slow at times. Yet at the same time he couldn't find it in himself to do it. Not because she was the princess or anything like that, but for one despite how he could be at times, he wasn't a jerk. And two, she was actually nice to be around so far, with none of the snobbish attitude that he had expected despite what his uncle had said. He'd actually feel bad to deny her without a good reason.
"Sure I don't mind. It'll be nice to have some company." Sonic said with a cheeky grin.
"I see, thank you." Sally said before a realization came over her. "Oh! I never properly introduced myself! I am Sally Alicia Acorn, it's an honor to meet you."
"Heh. In that case, I'm Sonic. Sonic the Hedgehog." Sonic introduced himself.
"Hedgehog. Are you related to Sir Charles then?" Sally asked, wanting confirmation. He was the only one she knew that carried the name hedgehog.
"You bet, he's my Uncle Chuck." Sonic said. That instantly blew away any lingering worries that appeared in her head.
"I knew your name sounded familiar. He always talked about his nephew being a troublemaker way back then." Sally muttered to herself before realizing how that sounded. "I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to-"
"Hey it's fine. I was a bit of a rascal back then." Sonic admitted. He always liked running off around the city, crashing, pushing and slamming into people and things that he really shouldn't have. "But with speed like mine, it was kinda hard to stay still."
"Speed?" Sally said only to find her hand taken. A blush formed on her face from the contact before she found herself led away.
"I'll tell you about it on the way." Sonic said, his smile growing larger. Sally couldn't help, but smile as well. Her normal princess tone was long forgotten.
"Alright then, let's go!" Sally said excitedly. They walked through the streets, passing by a Swatbot on their way to the park.
It glanced at them, it's visor glowing blue and offered a small wave. However, its single eye suddenly began flashing purple violently before finally shifting to red fully. It stood up straight and marched away. If everyone had paid attention to their faithful protectors, then they would have known that all the Swat bots had all done the same thing.
(Acorn Kingdom, The Royal Castle)(Meeting Room)
Maximilian Acorn sighed to himself as he waited for the meeting to begin. He was a brown Mobian squirrel with blue eyes and cheek tuffs. He shares general coloration with the rest of his family; however his stylized hair and beard had been starting to turn white much to his annoyance. He wore a blue uniform with gold epaulets, black silk pants, boots, a red cape, and of course his golden crown as well.
Glancing around the room, he saw Armand D'Coolette waiting with his normal gruff man looked extremely similar to his son, only missing his hair and an eye. The man was the general for a good reason, he doubted they would have made it through the great war without his expertise. Even after having his throat cut in the war, he merely patched himself up and kept fighting without a voice to be heard.
Charles was also here, making it on time for once much to his own surprise. His former Minister of Science, having stepped down due to a complication with a personal invention of his. After hearing how it turned Jules, one the Kingdom's finest Knights and a heavily injured from the great war, into a soulless machine he could understand why. The former Knight however still worked on projects thankfully, something he really should address.
They were the only two here on time, much to his annoyance. He may have not called the meeting, but it was still very disrespectful to his status. Now they had to put it off until they came together. Still it gave him a moment to think about things. Such as his daughter.
Oh how he wished that he could keep his promises to her as he did back then. However things were growing complicated over time. Remnants of the Federation's machines worried many of his people, his court wizard had all, but vanished on him and he's been working on more and more requests from towns under his rule.
He actually wanted Sally to participate more than anything, she was to rule someday after all. However if there really was a security risk then she would have to wait until she could learn anything. The last thing he wanted was for her to feel any kind of pressure while she was here.
"Are you well, Max?" Charles asked out of concern. Armand was also looking in his direction, though his hardened gaze remained.
"Just thinking about the security risk. I know it should be nothing, not with how things have been going." Maximilian said, feeling tired from even speaking. Not one of the other Kingdoms had the same man power nor advancements to challenge them as they are. It helped that their alliances were as strong as ever. "I doubt anyone would be foolish enough to attempt to challenge our Kingdom."
"I wish I could say I agree." Charles said honestly. The war left many scars on both sides, there was bound to be some people to try things in the name of revenge. "Not to mention the reports of the old gunner bots. I ignored it before because they were one at a time, but in the recent months they've been traveling in whole groups. All heading here."
"You're thinking too much. The United Federation is scattered." Maximilian said seriously. He had the scars to prove it.
"There were survivors, Max. We don't know what's going on." Charles said, not missing the growl from the King. "But that's not what I'm thinking about. It's how many of these Gunners there are."
"What of it?" Max asked.
"Simple. We destroyed several factories back in the day, all of them man made by people, not a computer. Yet if we look over the numbers over the past month, they're growing in mass." Charles explained. "However they're not as strong in comparison to the ones we fought back then. They're practically falling apart, yet they're still being sent out here. Not even held up to send out in mass, just small groups. Why?"
Armand was definitely looking interested, glancing at the table. He pulled out a notepad to write in before showing it to them. "A mock declaration."
"A mock declaration?" Maxamillian muttered while bringing a hand to his chin. It was an old tactic. Using the weakest units of an army to be sent out to attack others as a means to undermine them. "Even so, could it not be a base we missed? It is not so unlikely to believe that there's one left, potentially with an automatic function to release them."
"That's also a possibility, but why? What activated it after so long and why now?" Charles asked, his concern growing. It just didn't make sense logically for anyone to reactivate it for no good reason. "Perhaps we should see about sending out a squad. Just to see exactly where these gunners are coming from."
Armand seemed to agree, but Maxmillian didn't seem fully convinced. All of this felt like it was leading to something that he couldn't quite see ust yet. His first thought went to the security risk, making him wonder what it was exactly. These gunners posed no threat to anyone, even a well skilled child could take down the old weathered bots with little difficulty. If it wasn't external then...it only led to it being internal.
"...Perhaps we have a spy in our midst." Maximilian said, shocking his old friends. "We were called here due to a security risk, it wouldn't be impossible for others to sneak their way in."
"We did offer many of the refugees home here." Charles said, looking down. "This is concerning to say the least."
Armand took the time to write something down again. 'No. Most of the people taken in were small children at the time. Even the adults at the time were not soldiers.'
"Then maybe we're not looking at this the right way then." Charles said, releasing a sigh. "Perhaps-" He was interrupted by the sound of a door opening, earning all their attention.
It was Ivo Robotnik, coming in at long last.
The man was a tall Human of imposing girth, somewhat burlier and less flabby with long, almost disproportionately thin arms and legs. His head was round as opposed to pointy adorned and his orange mustache was great in density and mass. He was currently wearing an elegant, red coat sporting two square metal buttons on both sides of the chest in gold with white stripes and yellow cuffs on the sleeves with white gloves covering his hands, and a pair of black pants with matching boots. His tinted glasses made it impossible to ever see his true eyes.
"Forgive me for being late gentlemen, I had to ensure some things were working properly before I left. Can't risk anything going wrong after all." Robotnik said while stepping in. Two Swatbots came walking in and stopped by the door while Robotnik stood up in front of the table. "Now I believe I caught a bit onto your conversation about the security risk."
"Ivo, I'm glad you made it. We didn't mean to get started, but it came up during discussion." Maximilian said, hoping for another opinion on the matter. "Do you know the status of the other members? They're quite late."
"Oh I wouldn't worry about them. Despite their title, they don't seem to take the situation all that seriously. I say we continue on from where you left off." Ivo said, a large smile on his face. "Or at least that is what I would say if I didn't pinpoint exactly where the traitor was."
That...surprised them to say the least. If only because it seemed like the situation was about to be resolved before it became an issue.
"Then who is it?" Maximilian asked, wanting this dealt with before any news broke out.
"Why is the answer quite simple." Robotnik said, his grin growing more wicked. Before they could respond, the Swatbots suddenly aimed their cannons at them. "It's me."
"...W-what!" Charles exclaimed in shock. Armand himself was glaring at Ivo with pure and utter hatred, something shared by the King as well. "What do you mean?"
"It's me. It's always been me." Robotnik said, his tone becoming maniacal. He walked around the table, knowing that none of them would move at the risk of being shot. "You see this is something that I've been planning for a very long time. You don't know how long I've been waiting to finally put my plan into action."
"What are you planning, Robotnik? Answer your King!" Maximilian demanded, rage and fury in his eyes.
"Oh ho! Someone has quite the temper." Robotnik said mockingly. "To put it so that you animals can understand, I'm taking over the wonderful Kingdom of Acorn and turning it into my personal empire. It certainly helped that you gave me access to all machinery within the kingdom.."
"The Gunners, are they yours?" Charles asked seriously.
"Not exactly. I didn't hand over everything the Federation had. I merely liberated it, but only so I could see you squirm in your seats." Robotnik said, laughing madly at their expressions. All of the gunners were nothing more than a means to get a laugh out of the man. "But in all seriousness I didn't just betray the Federation, you know. It was quite a shame what happened to the envoy at the time. Such a devastating malfunction."
"...You?" Maximilian asked, shocked over taking his rage. It only lasted for a moment before all that heated anger came out at once. "YOU SABOTAGED THOSE MACHINES! YOU STARTED A WAR BETWEEN US!"
Robotnik could only laugh, no doubt enjoying all of this. Armand looked more than ready to kill the man in cold fury. Charles? Well he was still stunned. He never expected the man he called partner to be the reason the war started. So many lives lost, homes destroyed.
"WHAT WAS THE REASON FOR THIS! ANSWER ME NOW!" Maximilian roared out.
"Well that's quite simple. Originally I was going to take over the United Federation after dealing with you, but after I was found out and dealt with the little sneak, I got caught. So rather than waste my time in prison, I left for this Kingdom. Big, populated and filled with technological potential. Once I was added to your ranks, I got to work on my plan." Robotnik explained, stopping at the front of the door. He turned around, his glasses leaning forward to show his black eyes and red iris. "You are now talking to the current ruler of Mobius on this day!"
"You..." Words could not describe the anger that Maxmilian held within himself.
"And I ask that you don't call me Robotnik anymore, I grew tired of that name a long time ago. From here on out, you shall call me Eggman." The newly named Eggman declared, his sinister grin never fading. "As we speak the Swatbots are swarming the streets to ensure proper cooperation. Across the world now, my own personal forces are taking over the land in my name alone. Isn't that wonderful?"
"You won't get away with this Ivo!" Charles snapped, his anger coming out at long last.
"Oh my dear, old friend. I already have." Eggman said, laughing his way towards the door. He stopped first and turned back. "Don't worry though, I'll ensure that all your families join you where you'll be heading. Especially a certain princess who happens to be outside the castle as we speak."
"Sally?" Maximilian muttered in shock. His daughter was out there while all of this was happening?!
"I believe I'll leave you to these men while I get ready. I do have an extra special trip to make to the Starfall Islands after I finish things up here." Eggman said as a Swatbot opened the door for him. "For now, this is the part where you get captured and I rule supreme. Have fun!"
With that he exited the doors, leaving the men to their fate. It was finally time for the Eggman Empire to show itself at long last and nothing was going to stand in his way. Acorn Kingdom was now Eggman's at long last and the rest of the world would follow suit. Anyone who resisted wouldn't much after. For he was now the one above all of Mobius and he was going to show why today.
(Chapter End)
A/N: Woo, that...was a lot and this is only the Prologue. Hmm? Who am I? I'm the author of this story, but I'm sure you've guessed that much. Now, I know I laid a lot out and there's more to come, but I'm here to explain what I can and if you have questions you can ask through the review section. I can't promise I'll answer some things due to how it could spoil the story, especially considering I always post the questions and reviews at the very bottom. Now let's get into it.
For starters, I'm sure you've noticed that we're starting this all of Archie Style. Characters and Places included. Now I did have to do a decent amount of research before starting this up, but thanks to my friend, I was able to get a proper start to this the way I wanted. This is after all, not meant to be a re-telling, but something of a reboot of sorts. That doesn't just go for story either. Characters, Items, Events, it's all gonna have some differences from the original and some that stay the same as well.
One of the more notable things for Archie readers will notice is that the characters are all older, not starting off from being six to ten years olds like in canon. They're all ranging between 17-19 in this. That also means they're not gonna be exactly the same due to actually being raised and not forced to deal with the trauma of a walking talking Egg. Yet anyway. I will make them the same as possible, just a bit more mature to match their age and upbringing. Side Note: This does not mean every character has been aged up, just certain ones.
Next is Eggman. Now this man has done a lot of evil in every variation of him and I love that about him. Even when he has his silly moments, he's great. I so far haven't shown a lot for him, outside of what he did to get where he is now. He is the Villain of Sonic and I need to make sure I mark that about him throughout the story. I plan to show more of that master manipulation later on as well, along with more of his acts in the name of his empire.
And finally...clothes. That's all I really feel the need to say. It's just something me and my friend agreed on even if it isn't a seriously important detail. Ignore them, don't ignore them, your choice, it ain't changing. It would be really awkward if it did.
Oh and I didn't forget the mentions of the Starfall Island either, which is the official setting for Sonic Frontiers. Considering the game itself is still new, I thought it would be a nice mention for the story for when we get there. I won't say anymore outside of that.
That should be all for now, so as usual direct all questions towards the review section. In the meantime have yourself a great day and that you come back for more. Until next time.