Though it may not have been easy or fun, your time in the Void was ultimately productive; you've become far stronger than you were when you entered, and you may have even made a friend(?) or two. Shadow insists on remaining behind in the Void because he does not want to interfere with this world or potentially cause problems with this world's Shadow (wherever he may be), but Infinite is free to either accompany you or stay behind and fight Shadow, depending on whatever you guys would like. Surprisingly, he'll respect your wishes without complaint (though this may be because he wants to fight Shadow).
You return to the outskirts of Chicago, and it seems that the city has changed some in your time away...
THE CITY
Eggman's chroma has taken over damn near everything. The buildings, the streets, even the wildlife. It seems that the changes have only hit the city itself, as the outskirts (where the base is located) are mostly chroma-free. Still, it's a stark change - you haven't really been gone for all that long, have you? It's kind of hard to tell judging from your time in the Void, but if you check a calendar you'll find that approximately two weeks have passed. All this in two weeks seems a bit much...
The city itself still retains the same landmarks, shops, and people - though the former two are Eggman-ified. The people are back to going about their business as lifelessly as ever, completely heedless of the robots even if they do get in the way... but even the robots are back to patrolling as usual. There are far more of them now, however, and they aren't the same ones you're used to. Sure, you can still fine drones, B33s, and tanks here and there, but they've mostly been replaced by newer, tougher foes.
You're going to have to fight if you enter the city for any reason. The robots will recognize you as a threat and try to kill you on sight, and there are far more of them now than there ever were. But you're stronger now, so you can certainly keep up, if not destroy them easily.
THE BASE
The new base that Sonic and friends have moved you all into is quite different from the last one. This one seems to have been an office building at some point; a simple two story building with plenty of large rooms and smaller offices that have been repurposed as bedrooms. You can room with the same people as before, or you can even claim your own room! There's plenty of space here, after all. Knuckles will even move beds around if you want to rearrange things and can't lift them yourself.
Unfortunately, this base isn't nearly as furnished as the previous one. Sonic Team has managed to get all the bedrooms functional in the span of a few days, but everything else? Well... You're going to have to help with that, aren't you? The kitchen is barebones, there's no rooms for entertainment, training, or anything else, and security is minimal. Tails is still working on getting his surveillance up and running, let alone all the various research he's been working on. In short, you've got your work cut out for you building this place into something you can truly call your own.
But it is located on the outskirts of Chicago and it is is safe. After all, you've got each other to rely on.
SHARDS
Shadow's test may not have immediately had any sort of effects on you, but as you return to Chicago and resume fighting, you'll realize that controlling your shard and its power is innate at this point. You won't be struggling with it anymore - in fact, you've completely unlocked your shard's power. You're capable of a great many more things with it now than you were before. You should be able to use your shard for offensive and defensive purposes - which yes, means our healers can do the equivalent of averaging their HP with the enemy in order to deal damage to them. Fun times all around. You'll find that bonding with another shardbearer is also easier, and you can bond with many more of them now. You're growing stronger; maybe your time away in the Void did some good after all.
As you fight with your allies - particularly those you have a close bond with, positive or negative - you may feel the tug of something in the back of your head; it tells you that you can do more. Together, you can become more powerful. You can use your shards together. Doing so will grant you a new power, or strengthen the one you already have. The more you trust one another, the easier this power will be to use.
It might be good to experiment with these new powers; after all, you never know when you may need them.
TAILS' TASKS
Returning to the old base is ill-advised, but you can take a ring and hop over there if you've got someone to accompany you. After all, Tails would appreciate more of his old gear back, and you've probably left things behind there too. You'll find that the place is simply swarming with robots - they're on patrol rather than smashing your things, almost as if they were waiting for you all to return. Bring back whatever you need or whatever will prove useful - and be careful about it.
Of course, rings are running low again... so you know what that means. Scour Chicago and the outskirts in search of those pesky rings and make sure to bring them back! As always, they'll be found in increasingly bizarre and frustrating locations, but you'll be able to find them easier now than you could before. You won't even need a radar - your shards will innately draw you toward their location now!
ENEMIES
While you're undoubtedly going to find yourself running into familiar bots from the previous weeks, there are many new ones to contend with - and they are far stronger than the others. Eggman's army has more or less taken over Chicago, meaning that you'll be running into some sort of enemy frequently. The outskirts of the city are practically deserted, with the exception of your old base, that is.
Assault Drones have more or less replaced the majority of weaker patrolling drones. Unlike those, these are built for combat and they will not hesitate to engage in it. Capable of both shooting lasers, exploding, and sending out a loud siren call for reinforcements, they are not fun to fight. Still, they're the weakest of the new enemies by a long shot... though if you aren't quick enough and they get that loud siren out, they're going to be joined by those stronger enemies.
E-1000s are robots with gun arms that want you dead. They're capable of limited flight, shooting many lasers, and are quite durable... and to make matters worse, some of them even have shards allowing them access to a knockoff copy of one of your powers. The E-1000s usually patrol solo, without any other robots for backup, but they can and will call in reinforcements of the previous weeks' smaller robots when necessary.
Shadow Androids are basically what you'd expect. Shadow androids. They not only look like a certain black and red hedgehog, they also act like him, moving quickly and striking with hard hits and utilizing their fake Chaos Emerald shards for Chaos Control to both warp and temporarily freeze any opponent they face. They usually patrol in pairs - two Shadow Androids or a Shadow Android and any other assortment of weaker robots. Chaos Control is far more useful when someone else can take advantage of it, after all!
It does. We hold so little information about him to begin with, and that is the only piece I have ever heard which would seem to indicate some sort of...humanity.
["Vulnerability" is the word he thought of first. It simply felt too cold to say. It's true, but Turo does not particularly enjoy thinking of an actual human relationship that way, even if it was between two people who are (or were) their enemies.]
His death or perhaps a debilitating injury does seem the most likely reason. He could have theoretically abandoned the doctor, which would seem to explain the obsession with removing free will, but that seems improbable. If he was loyal up to this extent, I am not sure what could have been enough to change his mind now.
[ Vulnerability would be a word for it, though it may be ironic that Void Archives is in agreement that humanity may in fact seem more apt - more on a logical standpoint, due to the way the shift happened. So that they even nod to such words. ]
Indeed. I have not heard a single enlightening piece of information to suggest that there was anything like a trace of it within the man - but the fact that he spared the intensity of that mental suggestion speaks volumes all on its own. Especially considering now he seems to hardly care to the point where if someone failed him he would not hesitate to toss them aside.
[ As they had observed in the first place when the battle with Infinite had met its end. ]
One's stringent loyalty is not shaken too easily, either - of course, it is hard for us to know with certainty given we know what little transpired regarding his circumstances. But, even debating such aspects helps us.
So, it seems we have more mystery on top of another to figure out before we face this fool of a man, ideally. The circumstances of Stone's disappearance...and whoever was the one who attempted to interfere with Shadow's little test. Sounds like quite the tall order, but not impossible for us, no?
I'd be curious to speak with him, if he's still alive.
[Though as far as that goes, Robotnik's own control over this reality also makes Turo rather doubt there was a successful escape.]
Maybe Tails and the others know more. I'm not entirely sure how well any of them really know the doctor on...well, a personal level? [Is that how you'd put it?]
I have to admit, my own curiosity would be rather high as well.
Therefore, a discussion could prove to be quite fruitful~
[ They are not entirely sure if he's alive, either. But they do think there's a fair chance of it! Though, they give Turo's other words some thought. ]
...They seem relatively familiar with him - perhaps they would indeed know more. Tails would likely have retained more information than not just based on the type of individual he is.
[ So they supposed that if they're going to ask any details, the first person they'll consider seeking out amongst the furry kids will be Tails. They'll keep this in mind, so to speak. ]
Now, with that said...it appears we may have a slightly more concrete plan of action to take if we're not able to retrieve that information sooner than later. Though, speaking of our general situation, with everything coming to a head, I do wonder how you feel about so much time having passed? Can you imagine how it all was so different those weeks back?
It seems as though it has been something of a positive experience for many of us, in spite of everything.
[Turo's...not feeling so great right now, still. The party was pretty rough, even if things with More did turn out okay in the end. But that still isn't untrue. Overall, he's far better than when he began.]
[ 'In spite of everything'...their situation, he means, they suppose. ]
Quite so.
Though, is that not a good thing? In a way, that means we have defied negative experiences for the most part, no?
[ Void Archives knows their beginning was very rough; there is no getting around it, keeping in mind to mention such things. But, well, they are amazed at how far they've come. ]
Really, given what's happened to us, some of us should have, quite frankly, lost our minds and crumbled by now, right?
[ ... ]
...But, that hasn't been the case. Perhaps because we weren't exactly facing such indignities alone? Dare I say such sentimental words.
[ Void Archives knows that the literal nightmare/vision weeks were bad enough from personal experience. How many people have truly unpacked what happened? And yet, they have come out stronger for it thanks to support...right? ]
It is nice. I've never had anything like this much support before. I suppose that does make things seem a little more manageable. Even knowing that I will decide where to go next with More rather than by myself has made that whole thing seem far less overwhelming.
[....he's casual about it, don't worry about it...]
[ They are absolutely not going to worry about it, now that he has spelled it out for them.
...If anything, there is a twinkle in their eyes (and helps when they get told by More to know that the both are clearly on the same page.) Also, please, do trust the twinkle. ]
Oh yes, I'm certain it has made things easier for the both of you. Which, by the by, I should be granting you my congratulations, yes~?
I had wondered how matters between the two had been going out of sheer curiosity's sake, but I do see that they are certainly going places. No pun intended, of course. However, do also know that I believe you two make quite the pair.
[Somewhere in there he has caught up to some of the implications and gotten a little flustered! At least he's incapable of blushing? You have no idea if he'd be blushing if he had blood!]
[ They chuckle in the face of this - which, really, they don't think it's a bad thing to be flustered about. It's completely normal, and that is why their words were aimed in quite the light-hearted manner.
But, their enthusiasm, as always, is quite real. ]
Oh yes, indeed.
There is no need to be shy. Though I understand that it must be a relatively new experience for you, hm~?
[ From what they know of the Professor, they understand firmly that Turo quite frankly had a point in this - and they are not about to dissuade him from that. ]
Ah, well...I wish you certainly had a far more better reference point. But, that being said, is it because of how matters progressed at the party at certain points?
I did get the sense that there was essentially trouble at times. And, well, I was rather concerned when you left abruptly, even when there seemed to be moments wherein your discussions were on the far more positive line of matters.
[ They didn't exactly snoop wholly on the entirety of said related conversation that they are thinking about - but it is hard to miss when the vibes went from a bit sad to more along the lines of positive by far?
...Though, they so happen to give pause at that, in consideration. ]
In all honesty, I feel that navigating such matters can be quite a difficulty in of itself. Especially when one has little experience in those at all. You're bound to have quite a bit of rough patches. But, it feels to me that already you have come quite far - and, even speaking generally, I never had the feeling you did not care for those you associated with. Which may seem quite basic, and yet, I do have to say it makes all the difference.
Many in relationships of differing kinds are not always able to properly convey that they care about each other. Or support one another.
[ They were there themselves. So, they do have an immense amount of faith in Turo...and honestly, he is one of their closer bonds for a reason even beyond being able to relate. They believe that counts for something, whereas the Professor likely lacked such aspects in caring. ]
[He does care about people. However it may have happened (and he has to imagine it was accidental), it's an ability he knows he possesses. He'd never want those people to think otherwise.]
I feel...bad that I rejected his advances. I did not even mean to do that, exactly, I just...well, I did not even realize he meant it at first. Surely he must realize he has better options?
He confessed to you with all of his heart not because you were an option among many betters. But, because for him you are the best option.
Such an earnest poet is always so honest in his feelings and how he conveys himself. If he wanted someone else in all of his heart, all he needed to do is reach out with the sentiment. Yet, he reached out to you.
Make no mistake - it is you that has touched his heart, first and foremost. And, whatever he thinks or however he feels, he isn't the type of man to reach for others that you or anyone else may feel could be 'better options'.
[ They feel very strongly on this, particularly since this involves two people that they care about! Therefore even here they can convey the matter of such sentiment - they speak not these words harshly, though.
But merely earnestly, in hopes that Turo can at least understand. ]
You say you did not mean to do that, and I do believe so. Fortunately, I believe we both know he isn't the type to easily give up on others, yes? And I do have to say when a man like that feels strongly to confess those kinds of emotions, they don't just fade so swiftly.
...I don't believe it's too late, if you wish to correct course, so to speak.
[ There's a moment of silence as it lapses into some kind of consideration, evaluating the response that Turo has granted to them. ]
Such is the nature of these matters.
For now, what you two certainly have is quite precious. [ They brush a strand of their own hair back, pausing again, talking with that haughty, certain tone of theirs. ] Though I have learnt that there is value in managing to continue to cultivate different relationships in differing manners, wherever that so happens to take you.
[ They already conveyed they don't think he'd be terrible at it...he'd be quite the kind and considerate one. It's an admirable quality, though at the same time, they know his personality enough that he must ultimately come around to it on his own. It's one thing to not be certain if it's because the feelings from someone else are unknown, but it is another entirely to be uncertain on the basis of oneself. ]
[He does seem to have at least a little time for that.]
At least it does not seem to have been as bad as I thought - not having accepted to begin with. I thought he would be more upset, or it would be awkward. [...] Has it been awkward?
[ Consideration is at least a good step in their opinion! Whatever comes of it. They'll frame it as a small, but pivotal win. ]
...I will not mince words. I believe it is highly likely he internalized a lot of his reaction after a certain point, including any obvious and subtle immense disappointment, such to the point that any awkwardness seemed relatively absent after the moment passed.
And that was from an outsider's perspective - it'd be easier to notice when it comes to those sort of matters.
[ ...Granted, Void Archives is kind of at times lacking in social graces, but to them it seemed that the moment of "awkward" passed swiftly after the downer vibes. ]
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no subject
["Vulnerability" is the word he thought of first. It simply felt too cold to say. It's true, but Turo does not particularly enjoy thinking of an actual human relationship that way, even if it was between two people who are (or were) their enemies.]
His death or perhaps a debilitating injury does seem the most likely reason. He could have theoretically abandoned the doctor, which would seem to explain the obsession with removing free will, but that seems improbable. If he was loyal up to this extent, I am not sure what could have been enough to change his mind now.
no subject
Indeed. I have not heard a single enlightening piece of information to suggest that there was anything like a trace of it within the man - but the fact that he spared the intensity of that mental suggestion speaks volumes all on its own. Especially considering now he seems to hardly care to the point where if someone failed him he would not hesitate to toss them aside.
[ As they had observed in the first place when the battle with Infinite had met its end. ]
One's stringent loyalty is not shaken too easily, either - of course, it is hard for us to know with certainty given we know what little transpired regarding his circumstances. But, even debating such aspects helps us.
So, it seems we have more mystery on top of another to figure out before we face this fool of a man, ideally. The circumstances of Stone's disappearance...and whoever was the one who attempted to interfere with Shadow's little test. Sounds like quite the tall order, but not impossible for us, no?
no subject
[Though as far as that goes, Robotnik's own control over this reality also makes Turo rather doubt there was a successful escape.]
Maybe Tails and the others know more. I'm not entirely sure how well any of them really know the doctor on...well, a personal level? [Is that how you'd put it?]
no subject
Therefore, a discussion could prove to be quite fruitful~
[ They are not entirely sure if he's alive, either. But they do think there's a fair chance of it! Though, they give Turo's other words some thought. ]
...They seem relatively familiar with him - perhaps they would indeed know more. Tails would likely have retained more information than not just based on the type of individual he is.
[ So they supposed that if they're going to ask any details, the first person they'll consider seeking out amongst the furry kids will be Tails. They'll keep this in mind, so to speak. ]
Now, with that said...it appears we may have a slightly more concrete plan of action to take if we're not able to retrieve that information sooner than later. Though, speaking of our general situation, with everything coming to a head, I do wonder how you feel about so much time having passed? Can you imagine how it all was so different those weeks back?
no subject
No, not at all! It's strange how much can change so quickly...
[He hadn't trusted a single person here, when he first arrived. He'd expected nothing more than to die.]
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Yes, I do agree.
I remember when I first arrived, and I wasn't keen on the idea of doing anything like so much as getting along with others on a basic level.
I don't think I can really imagine myself being the way I am now - it feels like I haven't changed too much. And yet...
[ It's obvious, isn't it? How much that not only Void Archives has changed, but even they feel that they are clearly not the only one. ]
no subject
[Turo's...not feeling so great right now, still. The party was pretty rough, even if things with More did turn out okay in the end. But that still isn't untrue. Overall, he's far better than when he began.]
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Quite so.
Though, is that not a good thing? In a way, that means we have defied negative experiences for the most part, no?
[ Void Archives knows their beginning was very rough; there is no getting around it, keeping in mind to mention such things. But, well, they are amazed at how far they've come. ]
no subject
[They've kinda done really bad in all their fights, and in between has been a lot of actual literal nightmare experiences...]
no subject
Really, given what's happened to us, some of us should have, quite frankly, lost our minds and crumbled by now, right?
[ ... ]
...But, that hasn't been the case. Perhaps because we weren't exactly facing such indignities alone? Dare I say such sentimental words.
[ Void Archives knows that the literal nightmare/vision weeks were bad enough from personal experience. How many people have truly unpacked what happened? And yet, they have come out stronger for it thanks to support...right? ]
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[Turo frankly feels like he's just been churning, even with so many repetitions on the same theme. But at least other people know, now.]
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Yet if it does sound palpable, that would be good enough.
[ At the least it sounds as if that is the case, so that will just have to do. ]
no subject
It is nice. I've never had anything like this much support before. I suppose that does make things seem a little more manageable. Even knowing that I will decide where to go next with More rather than by myself has made that whole thing seem far less overwhelming.
[....he's casual about it, don't worry about it...]
no subject
...If anything, there is a twinkle in their eyes (and helps when they get told by More to know that the both are clearly on the same page.) Also, please, do trust the twinkle. ]
Oh yes, I'm certain it has made things easier for the both of you. Which, by the by, I should be granting you my congratulations, yes~?
I had wondered how matters between the two had been going out of sheer curiosity's sake, but I do see that they are certainly going places. No pun intended, of course. However, do also know that I believe you two make quite the pair.
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[Somewhere in there he has caught up to some of the implications and gotten a little flustered! At least he's incapable of blushing? You have no idea if he'd be blushing if he had blood!]
no subject
But, their enthusiasm, as always, is quite real. ]
Oh yes, indeed.
There is no need to be shy. Though I understand that it must be a relatively new experience for you, hm~?
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[So he's just trying not to really consult those? Though:]
Though I am not sure I did so well on my own, either.
no subject
Ah, well...I wish you certainly had a far more better reference point. But, that being said, is it because of how matters progressed at the party at certain points?
I did get the sense that there was essentially trouble at times. And, well, I was rather concerned when you left abruptly, even when there seemed to be moments wherein your discussions were on the far more positive line of matters.
[ They didn't exactly snoop wholly on the entirety of said related conversation that they are thinking about - but it is hard to miss when the vibes went from a bit sad to more along the lines of positive by far?
...Though, they so happen to give pause at that, in consideration. ]
In all honesty, I feel that navigating such matters can be quite a difficulty in of itself. Especially when one has little experience in those at all. You're bound to have quite a bit of rough patches. But, it feels to me that already you have come quite far - and, even speaking generally, I never had the feeling you did not care for those you associated with. Which may seem quite basic, and yet, I do have to say it makes all the difference.
Many in relationships of differing kinds are not always able to properly convey that they care about each other. Or support one another.
[ They were there themselves. So, they do have an immense amount of faith in Turo...and honestly, he is one of their closer bonds for a reason even beyond being able to relate. They believe that counts for something, whereas the Professor likely lacked such aspects in caring. ]
no subject
[He does care about people. However it may have happened (and he has to imagine it was accidental), it's an ability he knows he possesses. He'd never want those people to think otherwise.]
I feel...bad that I rejected his advances. I did not even mean to do that, exactly, I just...well, I did not even realize he meant it at first. Surely he must realize he has better options?
no subject
Well, my dear friend, please realize this:
He confessed to you with all of his heart not because you were an option among many betters. But, because for him you are the best option.
Such an earnest poet is always so honest in his feelings and how he conveys himself. If he wanted someone else in all of his heart, all he needed to do is reach out with the sentiment. Yet, he reached out to you.
Make no mistake - it is you that has touched his heart, first and foremost. And, whatever he thinks or however he feels, he isn't the type of man to reach for others that you or anyone else may feel could be 'better options'.
[ They feel very strongly on this, particularly since this involves two people that they care about! Therefore even here they can convey the matter of such sentiment - they speak not these words harshly, though.
But merely earnestly, in hopes that Turo can at least understand. ]
You say you did not mean to do that, and I do believe so. Fortunately, I believe we both know he isn't the type to easily give up on others, yes? And I do have to say when a man like that feels strongly to confess those kinds of emotions, they don't just fade so swiftly.
...I don't believe it's too late, if you wish to correct course, so to speak.
no subject
[What they have right now is good. There's no possible way he'd be a good romantic partner. What if he ruins the entire thing?]
no subject
Such is the nature of these matters.
For now, what you two certainly have is quite precious. [ They brush a strand of their own hair back, pausing again, talking with that haughty, certain tone of theirs. ] Though I have learnt that there is value in managing to continue to cultivate different relationships in differing manners, wherever that so happens to take you.
[ They already conveyed they don't think he'd be terrible at it...he'd be quite the kind and considerate one. It's an admirable quality, though at the same time, they know his personality enough that he must ultimately come around to it on his own. It's one thing to not be certain if it's because the feelings from someone else are unknown, but it is another entirely to be uncertain on the basis of oneself. ]
no subject
[He does seem to have at least a little time for that.]
At least it does not seem to have been as bad as I thought - not having accepted to begin with. I thought he would be more upset, or it would be awkward. [...] Has it been awkward?
[He is maybe not always the best judge of this!]
no subject
[ Consideration is at least a good step in their opinion! Whatever comes of it. They'll frame it as a small, but pivotal win. ]
...I will not mince words. I believe it is highly likely he internalized a lot of his reaction after a certain point, including any obvious and subtle immense disappointment, such to the point that any awkwardness seemed relatively absent after the moment passed.
And that was from an outsider's perspective - it'd be easier to notice when it comes to those sort of matters.
[ ...Granted, Void Archives is kind of at times lacking in social graces, but to them it seemed that the moment of "awkward" passed swiftly after the downer vibes. ]
no subject
[Well. That's...disappointing, but also not incredibly surprising.]
I should think about it faster.
(no subject)