Chapter Text
[INT. ??? - ??]
Modern Sonic falls into a room that can only be described as baren. Perfectly square, the room has white walls, grey wooden floors, and bare furniture. Two blue couches of different sizes that had some blank white pillows on either end of both of them, a one note black carpet laid out in the middle of the floor, a bar lined with blue bar stools that wrapped around a kitchen full of ingredients for chili dogs and drinks, as well as doors lining one of the walls that had two small labels one them and a singular door on the adjacent one that had a bathroom sign on it. A giant hamster wheel sat against the same wall the singular door was on.
Modern: AH! What the-?!
Modern quickly gains his bearings and manages to land on his feet before looking around.
Modern: This is… new…
A scream that sounds alarmingly similar to Modern's own is heard from above him. He quickly steps out of the way.
Boom: AAGHHH!
Boom lands right on his back in the middle of the rug.
Modern: Oh jeez, that looked like a nasty fall, here let me help you up!
Boom has yet to look at Modern, only looking around the two.
Boom: Thanks man, where are we?
Modern: No idea, I got here just before you did.
Modern looks up in shock has he finishes helping the other fully stand up. Boom is almost an entire head taller than him.
Modern: Wow! You’re tall!
Boom: Am I? Wait! Why do you look so much like me?!
Modern: You’ve never met another Sonic before?
Boom: Another me?! Wait, now that I think about it, I really shouldn’t be all that surprised, I’ve met other versions of pretty much all of my friends…
Modern: Yeah, this isn’t the first time this has happened to me either.
Boom: Wait, where I’m from, if there are two versions of the same person in one universe then it can cause a catastrophic anomaly!
Modern: Really? That’s never happened to me when I’ve met another Sonic?
Boom: If it does start happening then we will have some time to do something about it anyways, it’s pretty easy to tell ahead of time.
Modern: How?
Boom: Well-
Boom is suddenly interrupted by a loud thud hitting the floor behind them, they both turn around to see Classic, who had a rather harsh landing.
Modern: Classic?! Are you okay?
Boom: You know him?
Modern quickly zipped over to check and see if Classic is okay, yielding positive results.
Modern: Yeah man! This is my younger self! I call him Classic!
Classic hopped up with a spin dash and waved at Boom with a smirk. Boom returns the gesture and nods at the much smaller hedgehog.
Boom: Aren’t you a cute one?
Classic's ears perk up and his face turns red at the unexpected comment. He huffs and crosses his arms, looking away from Boom. Modern chuckles while Boom tilts his head in confusion.
Boom: Why isn’t he saying anything?
Modern: I was mute as a kid, struggled to speak up until I met Amy and Tails, still didn’t speak much up until WAY later though.
Boom makes a noncommittal noises of acknowledgement at that, while Classic nods to confirm what his older counterpart was saying was true.
Boom: Now we really could have a catastrophic anomaly happen.
Modern: Nah, when it came to us and the Time Eater situation, AND the war, we were completely fine. If anything, YOU would cause the anomaly.
Boom: Dang, wait… WAR? Time Eater?? What happened in your world?!
Modern and Classic look confused, Modern spoke as if those are completely normal situations where they come from.
Modern: What? Do you not have an Eggman in your world or something?
Boom: I do! But he’s never really attacked anywhere that wasn’t Hedgehog Village! Let alone cause a war!
Modern: Aren’t you lucky. The war wasn’t even the worst thing he’s done. That honor would go to something I can’t mention with Classic around, THAT could mess up the timeline.
Boom and Classic both look extremely concerned upon hearing that, but their worries are once again interrupted by another shout from above.
Prime: NOT AGAIN!!
The hedgehogs look up to see Prime fall flat on his face and stay there for a few moments. Modern helps pick him up after he sees that Prime won't make an attempt to, he drags the slightly shorter hedgehog to his feet.
Modern: Woah! Hey are you okay? You must’ve had the worst landing so far!
Prime: Ouch… It sure feels like it to-
Prime cuts himself off as he looks around, his mood swings into a panic.
Prime: NOT AGAIN! I THOUGHT THAT I DIDN’T HAVE COUNTERPARTS!!
Boom: Hey kid! It’s okay! You don’t have to worry about whatever the heck you’re talking about right now! We are other versions of you! Sonic!
Prime: Wait what? You know about that? I didn’t- None of the other variants were aware of who they are…
Modern: We aren’t in any way related to whatever you’re talking about, we promise.
Prime starts to look around at the other counterparts, slowly beginning to rid himself of his panic. He wipes himself off to gain his bearings, sighing and slowing his breathing. However, his calm didn't last long, as another thought came to his racing mind.
Prime: Wait! I left Shadow behind in the Shatterspaces! What if he thinks the worst?! I already screwed him over enough!
Boom: Wait? Shadow? You actually CARE about that Edgelord? Jeez, these worlds really are differen-
Prime: Don’t talk about Shadow that way! If it weren’t for him I wouldn’t know WHAT to do!
Boom seems surprised to hear that, guilt begins to adorn his features as he grips his arm with his adjacent hand.
Modern: Kid relax! It’s okay! I'm sure Shadow will be just fine! He IS the Ultimate Lifeform! He can take care of himself!
Modern places a comforting hand on Prime's shoulder, which Prime looked slightly reassured by. Boom's guilt was replaced with confusion.
Boom: Ultimate… Lifeform…? He’s not the Ultimate Lifeform in my universe? He’s just a weirdo who likes to dwell and brood in caves and occasionally try and fight me.
Modern and Prime look back at the taller hedgehog wit furrowed brows, meanwhile Classic was not paying attention to the conversation and instead assuring that Prime is okay after his panic.
Prime: In my world, Shadow makes it really well known…
Modern: Yeah, he talks about it every five minutes.
Boom simply shrugs, further stating that he had never heard Shadow refer to himself that way. Up until he turned his attention back to Prime.
Boom: Never mind Shadow, are you okay kid? That WAS a pretty nasty fall…
Prime nods and fully stood up, he nudges Modern and Classic away, but not unkindly.
Prime: Have any of you figured out what is happening here by the way? One minute I was trying to save my entire world, the next I’m in this strange white room with other versions of myself.
All of the other versions expressed their answers in the negative before another Sonic began his unruly descent towards the rest of them.
Archie: What now?!
Archie managed to land on his feet, looking especially annoyed about his new found predicament.
Modern: Hey man, what’s up with you?
Archie: Hey, another Zone problem? Where is Zonic?
Like, clockwork, both Zonic and another hedgehog who looked incredibly different from the others began their descent towards the ground. He's green, wearing a leather jacket, and has an uncharacteristically crude smirk on his face. Zonic was disheveled, his visor was slightly cracked, and he looked even more tired then Archie would have expected.
Zonic: Right here, unfortunately.
Scourge: I really did a number on you ‘Zone Cops’ didn’t I?
Archie: Zonic! Are you okay? What happened to you?
Without hesitation, Zonic points towards Scourge, who showed no signs of regret. He simply revealed and an more smug smirk without saying a word. He spots the bathroom and immediately walks up to it and slams the door. A faint locking sound is heard but no other sounds are made.
Zonic: He happened.
Archie: I’m gonna kick his-
Zonic quickly stops Archie in his tracks.
Zonic: Don’t. There is no point, even if you did I couldn’t put him back in Zone Jail where he belongs in my current state. Not to mention, he destroyed it.
Archie: HE WHAT?!
Zonic: Additionally, I have no idea what Zone we are in or why.
Archie: Wait, this wasn’t you?
Zonic: No. It wasn’t Scourge either, I imagine this is a social event or perhaps some trap set up by another version of Robotnik.
Boom: Who is Robotnik?
Zonic: That is the legal name of who you refer to as ‘Eggman’.
Boom: HIS REAL NAME IS ROBOTNIK??
Boom bust out into laughter.
Zonic: His first name is Ivo.
Boom began to wheeze, laughing even harder.
Archie: Why would Robotnik want more than one Sonic in one place? Wouldn’t that make his life harder?
Zonic: That’s why I am hesitant to believe this is his doing, as far as I can tell, we don’t seem to be in immediate danger, and if any threats come our way, we will be more than capable of handling it.
Archie and Modern both nod in agreement, then Boom turned to Zonic.
Boom: Who was that green guy? Do you both know him too?
Archie scowled while Zonic nodded in affirmation.
Zonic: That, believe it or not, IS a Sonic, but he refers to himself as Scourge the Hedgehog. He is attempting to make a new name for himself and separate himself from the identity of a Sonic.
Boom: Why would he want to do that? I’m awesome!
Zonic: I don’t think it’s something that I have enough knowledge about to tell accurately. Not only that, but he would probably be even more frustrated than being sent here against his will if I told you.
Boom wasn't satisfied with that answer, but chose not to pry based on the sour expression that was on Archie's face.
Zonic: Anyways, it seems like we are not going to be the last ones to arrive based on the amount of doors over there.
Zonic pointed at the wall that was lined with doors, drawing all of the hedgehog's attention to it. All of them approached the doors.
Modern: They have our names on them. Who are some of these though?
Zonic: I imagine they are based on the names of their Zones, but some of them seem to be their normal names. I recognize a few of these that aren’t here yet. Underground, King Arthur, X…
Modern: Wait, King Arthur?! I’ve been in that world! I was wondering where my counterpart was!
Zonic: Yes, after you left he was found by the Knights of the Round Table under a spell that locked him inside Dark King Arthur’s sword, he was released after Merlina was defeated but wasn’t found until later.
Modern nods in understanding, all of the others look confused, but don't question it.
Boom: When are they all gonna get here?
Just as Boom finished his question, they hear another yell. It sounded oddly different than the others.
Fleetway: BLOODY HELL! What is it now?!
Boom: Hey! You good man?
Boom reaches a hand down toward the smaller hedgehog, who isn't much taller than Classic. He has a scowl and a glare on his face.
Fleetway: Eugh, do I look okay to you? Have you gone blind or something?!
Boom: Woah chill, I’m just trying to help.
Fleetway: I don’t need help, string bean!
Fleetway harshly smacks Boom's hand away, scoffing.
Boom: Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed or something? What’s with the attitude?
Fleetway: None of your business! Where are we and why do you all look like me?
Zonic quickly darts over to Fleetway but not enough to invade his personal space.
Zonic: I’m going to have to ask you to calm down, you are already aware of why, we seem to all have been summoned to this place because of our status as versions of Sonic the Hedgehog. That is unfortunately all any of us know about this situation.
Fleetway: Thanks for the info, nerd. Any way we can get out of here? Have any of you tried to break the walls down or something? I need to get home before Robotnik tries to ruin my home again.
Zonic: The name calling wasn’t necessary, but none of us have attempted to leave yet, not all of us are here yet and I would like to know what the purpose of our presence is before we leave.
Fleetway: You talk too much, nerd. I’m leaving!
Fleetway attempts to spin dash into the nearest wall, but he is unable to make even a small crack in it.
Fleetway: Ugghh! I don’t have time for this!
Fleetway continues his assault on the wall for a short while before looking back at the other hedgehogs while he catches his breathe.
Fleetway: What in the hell are you all looking at?! Why are you just standing there?! Why are you not trying to leave?! I was in the middle of trying to-
Fleetway pauses, remembering what would happen if he wasn't in his world. He looks like he was already in another stressful battle with Robotnik based on the state of him.
Fleetway: If I don’t get back to my world right now then Robotnik could-
Fleetway's fur begins to slowly turn yellow and stand on ends. Zonic quickly rushes over to Fleetway to prevent his transformation into Super Sonic.
Zonic: Hey, Sonic, calm down, look at your fur.
Fleetway: Don’t tell me what to-
He sees his fur changing color and begins to panic, his scowl quickly fades from his face as his eyes dart around his changing body. The other hedgehogs look at the scene playing out, concerned. They make sure to keep their distance so Fleetway has space to calm down, as Zonic seems to know what he's doing.
Zonic: I know you don’t like being told what to do but I need you to listen to me. Take deep breaths and try to calm down, being angry won’t solve anything. For all we know time is not moving in our zones because of our removal. Relax.
Fleetway: What do you mean time isn’t moving?! What’s going on?!
Zonic: Don’t worry about it, I need you to focus on calming down, I will tell you how I know what’s going on with you after because you know what will happen if I tell you now. Don’t let Super take control, don’t let your anger define who you are. Just breathe.
Fleetway hesitantly follows Zonic's instructions, the others look on in even more concern, also silently questioning what Zonic means. Zonic looks back at the others and gestures for them to look away. Fleetway's fur slowly turns back to its normal color.
Fleetway: I’m not turning piss yellow anymore, care to explain why the HELL you know about that?
Zonic: I’m going to ask you to keep your temper under control while I explain.
Fleetway: Whatever, crayon box. What’s with the ridiculous outfit anyways?
Zonic: It is my uniform. I am Zonic the Zone Cop, responsible for the well being of all Sonic’s across every zone. I prevent zones from being destroyed or harmed by any version of Sonic that may be dangerous enough to do so.
Fleetway: Care to explain where the hell you’ve been then?! Super tried to-
Zonic: I’m very aware, but I have more than just your zone to deal with, right at that moment for you, another Sonic was in the middle of almost causing a rift in space time, it took priority because if that happened, it would have affected more than just one zone. Not to mention, you proved in the past that you are more than capable of dealing with Super on your own if necessary.
Fleetway grumbles but doesn't continue to question Zonic. The others simply look on awkwardly.
Archie: Wait, time rift? Which Sonic did that?
Zonic unexpectedly points toward Classic and Modern, who both perk up at the acknowledgement, Classic pins his ears as he realizes what they could have done while Modern avoids his gaze.
Modern: It was the Time Eater wasn’t it?
Zonic: No, it was the war, The Phantom Ruby being used by Classic to get to Modern’s world caused issues I didn’t anticipate, no worries kid, it was Robotnik’s fault, not yours. Though technically it was your presence that nearly caused the rift so I was put in charge of dealing with it.
Classic looks on apologetically despite being told it wasn't his fault. Zonic walks over to reassure the younger hedgehog and pats him on the head. To nobodies surprise, another shout comes from above just as Classic cheers up.
Movie: AAGHHH!
Modern quickly jumps to catch the other hedgehog and succeeds with ease. He holds the other in his arms, Movie is hardly paying attention and his eyes are instead darting around the room. The moment that Modern let's him down, his tail begins to wag like crazy and he runs around the room looking at the others.
Movie: Wow! Other me’s! You’re so tall! You’re so short and cute! What’s with the colorful outfit? Who does your quills? Why do you look so grumpy? What’s with the different gloves? Wh-
Modern: Hey kid, slow your role! One question at a time!
Movie: Oh sorry! It’s just, this is so exciting! It’s like Marvel! Other me’s! Just like in my comic books!
Zonic: So you’re familiar with this type of situation?
Movie: Uh, Yeah! Multiverses are some of my favorite kinds of stories! So what nicknames do we give each other so we don’t get confused? Or have y’all not got to that part yet?
Zonic: It’s already taken care of by our zone names.
Movie: Oh really?! What’s mine?
Zonic: You have been referred to as ‘Movie Sonic.’
Movie: Movie Sonic? Why Movie Sonic?
Zonic: I don’t make the names, I simply follow the rules, but I imagine your love of movies might play a role.
Movie: That makes sense! But do none of you watch TV or something?
Boom: I watch plenty of TV, but nothing is ever good. Comedy Chimp should really quit, so should Soar, but eh, I get to be on his show sometimes so he’s not as bad. Except for the time he set Amy’s cabin on fire and left me in the middle of the ocean and threw water at my face, but that’s hardly the worst that could have happened.
All of the others turn to Boom in questioning, with the only exception being Zonic, who already knows the story. Boom simply shrugs and the Movie continues the flow of the conversation after realizing that Boom is not going to elaborate.
Movie: What’s with all those rooms over there?
Prime: I think those are our rooms, not all of us know who we are yet though…
Zonic: Don’t worry, I know who everyone is and who they will be rooming with.
Movie: Who am I rooming with?! Whose my roomie?!
Zonic: He hasn’t arrived yet, but his code name is X.
Movie: Ooohh, Is he the dark and mysterious type?
Zonic: I suppose, but it is a stretch, he is another Sonic just like you and I. He’s a bit more on the quiet side though.
Movie is very surprised to hear that, but he isn't the only one as others look skeptical as well.
Movie: I didn’t think a version of ME could be quiet!
Zonic: He’s unique in that way.
Classic looks offended, as the most silent Sonic of all, he huffs and puffs out his cheeks.
Zonic: Sorry Classic, but you two are the only ones.
Zonic seems to be corrected by the sound of another Sonic falling. Modern still manages to catch him on reflex, but is alarmed by the small size of the child.
Nicky: Wh-What’s ha-happening?! Whe-Where am I?!
The kid begins to cry, terrified of the amount of strangers and sudden new location without his family. He was even younger than Classic, as well as smaller and wearing a terribly oversized red hoodie and thick black glasses that were fogging up because of the tears falling down his muzzle.
Zonic: I forgot about this one, his world is one I’ve never had to interfere with.
Fleetway: Oh joy, a crybaby.
Boom smacks Fleetway upside the head for the rude comment. Prime, knowing how panic attacks can feel, slowly approaches the young hedgehog and tries to calm him down. Zonic observes carefully to make sure he doesn't need to intervene.
Prime: Hey, it’s okay kid, you’re safe! I promise!
Nicky: I want my mom and dad! Where are they?! Did you kidnap me!?
Prime: No no! We are in the same boat you are, the same thing happened to all of us! We don’t know why we are here either…
Nicky takes off his foggy glasses, attempting to rub his eyes and hide his face after noticing he was now the center of attention.
Movie: Yeah! I just got here! Think of it like those comic books about the Multiverse! We are other versions of you! Sonic!
Nicky: S-Sonic? I’m not Sonic… My name is Nicky…
Fleetway: He’s joking… right? Look at yourself kid! You look like us but dorkier!
Nicky: B-but I can’t be Sonic! He’s a hero! Amy has seen him! My sister and dad have too!
Nicky seems distracted enough to stop letting tears flow, but his voice is still cracking and his breathe was still hitched.
Zonic: The kid isn’t lying, he technically isn’t Sonic, but Sonic does live in his body and takes over when needed, but Nicky never has any memory of it.
Nicky: WHAT?!
Nicky tears up again, trying to process the information. His breathe quickens once more and Prime hushes and tries his best to comfort the boy. Most of the others look on in sympathy at the poor kid's meltdown. They decide not to overcrowd him, as that could overwhelm him more. Boom tries to distract by thinking about what Nicky said for a moment. Then he perks up and questions the others.
Boom: That’s new, none of us have a sister as far as we know right?
Zonic: He isn’t the only one with a sister, but it is rather unique as most Sonic variants don’t have siblings or any living relatives.
Some of the hedgehogs look away at that, especially Movie.
Zonic: Apologies for any unwanted reminders, but we need to calm Nicky down before another Sonic arrives, because we don’t know who could be next one could be.
The others try their best, but Nicky doesn't come any closer to calming down. Another Sonic arrives while they continued to try and help. Thankfully nobody needed to catch him because he lands on his feet with grace, jingling bells, and a pep in his step.
Jester: Goodness!! Where have I stumbled into this time? Looks awfully-
Jester turns around and meets the gaze of all the other hedgehogs.
Jester:...
Jester: Have I truly jested one too many times to those who don’t hold me in high regard? Was I slain in my sleep?
Jester doesn't seem too surprised at the thought of being killed in his sleep, which isn't helping Nicky calm down. Though it doesn't surprise most of the others either but some grimace.
Jester: Could it have been that merchant from a few weeks ago? I wonder how he may have made his way into the castle, King Shadow won’t be happy about that…
Boom: Wait… King Shadow?! You’re kidding right?!
Jester: I may be a jester, but I am not joking! Lord Shadow is the title of the King who employed me!
Modern: You poor thing…
Jester: Nonsense! I take my King as a challenge! He rarely finds my jokes appealing but believe it or not I have made him laugh before!
The others look on in disbelief, until Jester noticed Nicky, still crying while Prime still trying his best to calm the boy down.
Jester: Oh who is this young one? What’s troubling you?
Nicky: I-I don’t know where I am! Or why I’m here! I don't wanna be Sonic! I want my mom and dad!
Jester: Oh come now, none of that! I’d say the reason you are here is because you are a dashing blue hedgehog such as myself! Why don’t I show you a few tricks? Tell a few jokes?
This catches Nicky's attention, Jester backs away from him and fishes around in his hat, pulling out some colorful juggling balls while never taking his eyes off of Nicky. He tells jokes and stories that manage to even get a chuckle out of Fleetway. Although, most of them are just horrible puns that only a Sonic would laugh at.
Jester: It seems I have a rather loud audience! Such good taste you all have! I may enjoy my purgatory!
Zonic: This isn’t purgatory, we are alternate versions of you.
Jester pauses, not really understanding what he means at first, until it finally clicks and he perks back up to continue his charade.
Jester: Well that explains why everyone here is so dashingly handsome!
Zonic: ...Yes… Anyways, thank you for calming Nicky down. How are you feeling kid?
Nicky: B-Better… You’re really funny mister…
Nicky wipes his eyes and Prime helps the boy onto one of the blue couches, he sits down while Prime rubs his back, attempting to comfort.
Jester: Why thank you Nicky!
Modern: Now I’ve seen it all… A Jester version of me who works for Shadow…
Jester: Oh I do much more than just work for King Shadow! He simply doesn’t like to admit it!
Jester winks, letting their imagination tell each of them exactly what that means.
Boom: I don’t even wanna know what that means…
Fleetway: Now I’m grateful I have no clue who this Shadow person is…
Boom: Trust me… You’re luckier than you think.
Jester: Don’t be like that! King Shadow isn’t all that cruel once you get past his appearance!
Jester is still lighting up the room, thriving as the center of attention. He is especially happy to talk about his King.
Modern: I can agree, he’s not all that bad but making him laugh is impressive, even for me. I rarely even see him smile, I’ve never heard him laugh before.
Jester: It was quite the task! Believe me! His laugh was one like no other that it would do no justice simply to describe!
Only a few of them notice the redness of the Jester's face, but chose not to comment.
Boom: I’ve heard mine laugh, mockingly. Never for real though.
Jester: That was how it was for me for a long time friend! I got through to him though!
Boom: Friend huh?
Jester: Just thought It would be nice to befriend such lovely faces! Which I would love to put names too.
Boom: Oh uh… Zonic? Can you tell me my Zone name or whatever so I can actually answer him?
Zonic: I wanted to put this off until everyone arrived, but sure. You are Boom Sonic.
Boom: I suppose I’m Boom Sonic… Jester…?
Boom turns to Zonic, who simply nods to silently state that was his title. Suddenly Movie runs over to Jester and jumps to get his attentions, though his size causes it to take more time than it should.
Movie: Please tell another joke! You’re hilarious! Oh! Who made your costume? It looks amazing! Why are some of your bells stars and some aren’t? Why do you talk like that? Wh-
Jester: Aren’t you excitable! I haven’t the foggiest what you mean by the way I talk, but of course I can tell more jokes! It’s what I do after all! As for my uniform, King Shadow had it made for me, I couldn’t tell you who made it unfortunately.
Movie went quiet at the mention of Shadow. Jester quickly began to distract him with more jokes and tricks. Zonic perked up as a thought came to his head and went over to Prime while Movie was distracted. Prime was sitting on the couch next to Nicky, Zonic whispered something to Prime, whose ears droop upon hearing what Zonic says but nods anyways.
Nicky: Wh-whats wrong? What did he say?
Prime: Nothing Nicky. Don’t worry about it.
Prime silently gets up and walks over to the nearest hedgehog, who happened to be Modern. He whispers the same thing that Zonic told him, Modern in turn perked up and whispered something back. Prime looks over at Classic and Movie, who were both surrounding Jester. Nicky had been a silent witness to everything that Prime has been doing and his anxiety began to grow as he watches Modern and Prime move over to other hedgehogs around the room.
Jester: I could tell some stories if you’d li-
Jester pauses, realizing something.
Jester: Pardon me, but I believe only one of you gave me your name! Who are you?
Movie perks up, he has been so excited by the jester that he forgot to tell him anything about himself.
Movie: Zonic says I’m Movie Sonic, so call me Movie!
Jester: Alrighty Movie! I’ve got a story to tell you! So-
The other hedgehogs spread the word to each other while avoiding Movie and Classic. Nicky continues to watch until every other Sonic had heard the whispers except for Jester, Movie, Classic, and Nicky. Nicky grew increasingly anxious, but before he could continue to spiral, he is interrupted by another thud, though this one is unusually loud.
Arthur: Sir Lancelot what in Camelot-
King Arthur, in full armor, was looking around at the scene in front of him, he then pulled out his sword. Instead of going on the attack, he questions the sword.
Arthur: Is this what you were referring to when you spoke of others who looked like myself?
Caliburn: Why yes My King! Though there was only one other! There he is! Knave! Explain what is happening at once!
Modern: Nice to see you too Caliburn.
Caliburn: Don’t jest! Explain at once!
Jester: Jesting is MY job!
King Arthur and Caliburn both look over at Jester, while it is hard to tell because of Arthur's armor, as well as Caliburn's smaller features, they both look him up and down.
Caliburn: Quiet fool!
Jester wasn't phased by the comment, smirking. King Arthur was incredibly confused at the sight of another Sonic he seemed to be in the exact opposite line of work to himself.
Jester: I wear that title with pride!
Modern: None of us really know why we're here yet, but we have some theories.
King Athur was relieved to hear that, he sighs lightly before taking a small look around the room. His gaze falls back on Modern shortly after and lifts his visor, many were confused about the full body gold armor and some even thought it was excessive, but none commented.
Arthur: Please elaborate on those theories, I must return to Camelot at once.
Modern: Zonic could do a better job at explaining, he’s that one with the uniform over there.
Arthur: I see, thank you, I must also thank you for returning peace to my kingdom in my absence. You truly are worthy of the title of King.
Modern: Oh… Uh… Thank you…?
Modern avoided eye contact with the King as his face flushed from the unexpected compliment. Coming from a King it was high praise.
Caliburn: He still has reluctant manners at best, and lacks discipline.
Arthur: Now Caliburn, he achieved his goals, in his own way, but Camelot is still standing strong and that’s all I could ever hope for.
Caliburn: I suppose… Now, let us ask this ‘Zonic’ fellow about how to leave this place!
Arthur: Of course.
Arthur and Caliburn make their way to Zonic, who had finally stopped whispering around, and the two began to talk about theories that Zonic has. Meanwhile, Nicky slowly got off the couch, and makes his way over to Modern and attempts to get his attention by tugging on the much taller hedgehog's glove.
Nicky: E-excuse me… mister…?
Modern looks down at the young hedgehog.
Modern: Hey buddy, what’s up?
Modern squats down to reach Nicky's level, he looks concerned.
Nicky: I-I saw Zonic whisper something to the nice Sonic who helped me… then he went over to you and you started whispering…
Nicky attempts to elaborate but his anxiety got the better of him, he stutters. Modern understands what he is trying to say and slowly places a hand on Nicky's shoulder.
Modern: Hey buddy, it’s okay. He was just telling me about something that shouldn’t be said to two of the other Sonics here or it could cause problems.
Nicky is sort of reassured knowing it wasn't about him.
Nicky: I-is it about that one? He seems scary…
Nicky points to Fleetway, who has made his way over to the bar and sat down, looking irritated.
Modern: No no, Its actually about those two little guys over there.
Modern points to Movie and Classic, who are still surrounding Jester in amazement at his impromptu performance. Their eyes look like they have stars in them, they don't notice Modern and Nicky looking.
Nicky: Are they in trouble? Are they gonna be okay?!
Nicky asks frantically, not wanting to get hurt, especially not those who seemed like good people.
Modern: They’ll be fine, I promise, Zonic wanted us not to tell them because it could mess with their timelines, Classic already knows the outcome of what he shouldn’t, but if anyone tells him what exactly happens then Zonic thinks it could cause a time rift. Bad stuff.
Nicky: Wh-what is it? That you can’t tell them?
Modern hesitates, not knowing if he should tell Nicky. He chooses to play it safe.
Modern: I’ll be honest, I don’t know if I can tell you because I don’t know if the same thing will happen in your world. Sorry kiddo, but try not to worry about it too much okay? It all works out in the end, I promise.
Nicky only brings himself to nod in response, unable to do anything else. He makes his way back over to the couch and sits back down. Modern joins in on the conversation between Arthur, Caliburn, and Zonic in the mean time. Another hedgehog fell into room as everyone settled. This time Boom is the one who takes action and catches the variant. He is the same height as Fleetway, though with much shorter quills.
OVA: Oh jeez, what happened this time?
OVA looks around, exasperated at the sight in front of him. The dots connected in his head and his gaze darts around, hopeful. After he does a full scan of the room he deflates, Boom lets him down and OVA begins to ask questions that have already been answered before, until he asks one that the others don't expect.
OVA: Say, if other Sonics are showing up, does that mean there is a chance that Metal could show up too?
Those who are familiar with Metal Sonic turn over in questioning, with Fleetway as an exception, Metal Sonic goes by a the name Metallix in his Zone, as well as Zonic.
Modern: Metal? As in Metal Sonic? Hopefully not…
OVA: What do you mean hopefully not?
OVA is surprisingly offended on Metal Sonic's behalf, Modern is unsure how to respond to this. Zonic is quick to mediate as usual.
Zonic: It could be possible, but unless an alternate Sonic has been roboticized, I’m not sure that would be possible.
Most aren't familiar with being Roboticized, but the name gives it away enough that those who figure it out what it entails shiver.
Zonic: This Sonic has a unique relationship with his Metal Sonic, due try not to pry.
OVA: I’m the only one who knew Metal like that?
Archie: I have a pretty unique relationship with my Metal, but he’s kind of a new robot entirely. He goes by Shard, a new Metal Sonic was made to replace him pretty quick though.
OVA just hums, he makes his way to the bar and sits a few seats down from Fleetway before losing himself in his own head, turning away from the others with drooped ears. Jester takes noticed of OVA's sour mood but before he is able to attempt to cheer him up Zonic intervenes, wordlessly telling him not to bother the other.
Jester huffs in response, then Zonic goes back to his conversation with Caliburn and King Arthur by the wall lined with doors. Jester was back to entertaining Classic and Movie in the middle of the carpet, with Nicky, Prime, and Boom all watching from different places on the couches. Archie and Modern are standing over the group as well.
Arthur: I see, well, considering we are not all here and accounted for yet, all we may be able to do is wait for the final arrivals. If we attempt to leave without them, they could potentially be caught in crossfire or left behind here.
Zonic nods in agreement while Caliburn mutters about having wait, Arthur shushes the sword and puts him away. They begin to chat amongst themselves while waiting for another Sonic to drop. However, instead, something else happens.
Zonic: Perhaps we have an answer to why we are here now.
All of the hedgehogs in the room look over to the back wall, seeing a screen pop up from seemingly nowhere. On it reads a message.
‘HELLO SONICS, DO NOT WORRY, YOU ARE NOT IN ANY DANGER. YOU ARE SIMPLY HERE TO ANSWER SOME QUESTIONS SUBMITTED BY SOME ANONYMOUS VIEWERS.’
Fleetway: What do you mean viewers?! There are people watching us?!
The screen ignores the outburst and continues.
‘THESE VIEWERS ARE FAMILIAR WITH THE EVENTS THAT PLAY OUT IN YOUR RESPECTIVE ZONES, SO THE QUESTIONS WILL LIKELY BE ABOUT THEM. HOWEVER, WE DO NOT CONTROL WHAT THESE VIEWERS WILL ASK. WE HAVE LAID DOWN SOME GROUND RULES, BUT OTHER THAN THAT, SOME OF THE QUESTIONS COULD BE CONSIDERED INVASIVE AND YOU COULD REFUSE TO ANSWER IF YOU LIKE. ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU COULD BE ASKED THE SAME QUESTION AGAIN IN THE FUTURE THOUGH.’
All of them look around at each other, unsettled. Zonic in particular has a lot running through his head.
Zonic: Can you, behind the screen hear and see us right now?
The screen was blank for a moment before a single word popped up.
‘YES.’
It read, before quickly disappearing. Another longer message appears in it's place.
‘IF ANY OF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, ASK THEM NOW BEFORE THIS SCREEN IS EXCLUSIVELY RESERVED FOR SUBMITTED QUESTIONS. SAID QUESTIONS WILL NOT DISAPPEAR UNTIL THEY ARE ANSWERED OR THE RESPECTIVE HEDGEHOG REFUSES TO RESPOND.’
Zonic: My main concern would be the time rifts this could cause, certain Sonics have had things happen in their Zones that haven’t happened to others yet.
‘NO TIME RIFTS WILL BE CAUSED, I ASSURE YOU. AFTER THIS SESSION HAS CONCLUDED YOUR MEMORIES WILL NOT BE RETAINED.’
Fleetway: So what is the point of this whole mess if nobody will remember it?!
‘YOU WILL NOT RETAIN YOUR MEMORY, BUT THE VIEWERS WILL.’
Fleetway: So we’re here to entertain a bunch of stalkers?! I’m not answering anything.
‘YOU MAY DO SO IF YOU WISH. YOU WILL STILL BE HELD HERE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.’
Fleetway wasn't happy to know that, but decides not to make a scene, knowing that any tantrum or outrage would amount to nothing.
Modern: You said something about ground rules? Can we know what those are?
‘YES YOU MAY, THEY WILL BE LISTED HERE:
-NONE OF THE VIEWERS ARE ALLOWED TO ASK ANY DIRECTLY NSFW RELATED QUESTIONS, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE THERE ARE A FEW OF YOU WHO ARE CHILDREN. HOWEVER, SOME QUESTIONS MAY STILL BE INVASIVE. IF A VIEWER ASKS AN NSFW QUESTION ABOUT A CHILD SONIC THEY WILL BE BANNED.
-NO 3RD PARTY CHARACTERS WILL BE SUMMONED OR INTERACTING WITH THE MAIN CAST. IF AN INDIVIDUAL FROM ANOTHER SONIC’S CANONICAL RESPECTIVE UNIVERSE IS SUMMONED FOR ANY REASON IT WILL BE TEMPORARY.
-NOT ALL OF THE SONICS HAVE ARRIVED YET, SO NO DIRECT QUESTIONS TO THOSE WHO ARE NOT PRESENT. QUESTIONS CAN BE ASKED ABOUT THEM HOWEVER.
-NOT ALL OF THE SONICS HAVE ALL OF THERE ADVENTURES NOTED YET, ARCHIE, SCOURGE, AND ZONIC IN PARTICULAR DO NOT HAVE ALL OF THEIR DATA RECORDED SO AVOID ANY HYPER SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ABOUT THINGS THAT HAPPENED AFTER THE EVENTS OF 192 OR UNIVERSE.
-WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO NOT ALLOW A QUESTION TO BE ASKED IF WE DEEM IT AGAINST THE RULES OR UNCOMFORTABLE FOR US.
-WE WILL ONLY MAKE ANY ANSWERS YOU PROVIDE PUBLIC IF MULTIPLE AT A TIME ARE ASKED, WE DON’T WANT ANY CLIPS OR CHAPTERS TO BE TOO SHORT, SO THE VIEWERS ARE ALLOWED TO ASK AS MANY QUESTIONS AS THEY WANT PER COMMENT. WITHIN REASON OF COURSE, NO SPAMMING IS ALLOWED.
-NONE OF THE SONICS WILL BE FORCED TO ACT AGAINST THEIR WILL AT ANY POINT, WHILE THE VIEWERS CAN SUBMIT ITEMS AND OTHER THINGS OF THE SORT TO BE SUMMONED INTO THE ROOM, THEY CAN NOT FORCE ANY ONE OF YOU TO DO ANYTHING.’
All of the hedgehogs think those rules are reasonable enough, though some were confused as they read.
Arthur: Pardon, but some of those words allude me… What is ‘NSFW’?
‘NSFW IS SHORT FOR ‘NOT SAFE FOR WORK’. MEANING ANY CONTENT THAT IS NOT SUITABLE FOR THOSE UNDER THE AGE THAT THEY WOULD BE CONSIDERED A LEGAL ADULT IN THEIR UNIVERSES.’ The screen responded.
Zonic: So proper censorship will be applied, none of the children are going to be asked anything they shouldn’t.
Modern: So when will these questions be coming in?
‘AS SOON AS THIS IS SUBMITTED TO THE PUBLIC, WHEN WE HAVE ENOUGH QUESTIONS SUBMITTED THEY WILL BE DISPLAYED TO YOU, AND YOU WILL GIVE A RESPONSE. I RECOMMEND YOU ALL GET SOME REST IN THE ROOMS YOU HAVE ALL BEEN ASSIGNED TO.’
Everyone ignored the grumbling from Fleetway.
Archie: By the way, Zonic. Some of us don’t know what this screen thing will call us when we get a question, or which one of these rooms are ours.
Zonic perked up, glancing over at the doors before looking back at the others.
Zonic: One of these match ups I’m objecting to anyway. No way am I letting Scourge room with Fleetway.
Zonic walks up to the doors and switches some of the names around. Some look around, silently questioning which one of them was Fleetway. Zonic turns back and points to Fleetway, who looks him up and down at the unwanted acknowledgement.
Zonic: That one is Fleetway. Scourge is in the bathroom, he has yet to come out and I want it to stay that way. Don’t worry, Scourge will room with me so I can keep an eye on him.
Archie grimaces, thinking about what could have happened if Zonic didn't switch the names.
Fleetway: Who IS rooming with me then?
Zonic points to Archie, who tries to fix his face before Fleetway makes eye contact.
Zonic: Archie will, please don’t start any arguments between you two.
Archie: My nickname is Archie huh? Alright Fleetway, let’s try to make this work.
Archie tries to keep positive, though he was less than enthusiastic to be rooming with Fleetway. The other just rolled his eyes and mumbled noncommittally. Zonic turns his attention to another Sonic and tells him his Zone name is Prime.
Prime: Me? Okay… Who am I going to be sharing with?
Zonic looks back at the rooms and scans for Prime's name, he finds it and looks back.
Zonic: You’ll be sharing with King Arthur from the looks of it.
King Arthur looks over at Prime, who smiles nervously and waves to the King. Arthur simply nods in response.
Zonic goes around and tells all of the others their respective names and who they would be rooming with, some of which have yet to arrive.
Modern: Now we wait, I guess.
Jester: I assure you I will make sure we will do much more than simply wait! We shall make the most of this!
Movie, Classic, and Nicky are especially happy to hear that.