escordvi | Gloom Egg Zone Act I

Entry tags:

Gloom Egg Zone Act I

Who: Dr. Eggman and Ganondorf
Status: Closed
Where: Eggman's Workshop on Nogard
What: Ganondorf seeks out the man supplying the populace with these intricate Radniks, perhaps entering into an 'arrangement.'
Warnings: Scheming and Plotting

[For their purposes, the Radniks were a rather sizable success. It never fails to inspire just how easily it is to sell junk to the masses to consume. The influx of people purchasing semi-customizable "companions" based on his antiquate Badnik schematics would be somewhat validating if he believed those old things had anymore inherent worth. After all, Sonic and his ragtag group of hooligans destroy his machines on the regular. It wasn't worth growing attached to the rabble.]

[Eggman's warehouse workshop was beginning to shape up into something more akin to his vision with the funds he had accrued. It was a challenge to build himself up from nothing&mdadh; a challenge made all the more difficult by the constant scrutiny of the Hedgehog and his cohorts. What he wouldn't do for some halfway decent allies to help even the odds ever so slightly.]

[He's kept this warehouse more or less open to passersby and solicitors. He doesn't have the means nor desire to open up a store and when this warehouse becomes compromised or obsolete, he can abandon it as necessary. But for now, this place was more than serviceable. He's at his workstation when proximity sensors alert him to someone crossing the threshold but he doesn't turn around from his delicate work. Instead, he waves over his shoulder.]

Yes yes, if you're here for a Radnik there's a catalog on that table near the door. Select the ID number and fill out one of the blank customization slips!

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[Normally, Ganondorf wouldn't much care for such things. But when he encountered one, his first thought was of the Zonai War Machines; closer inspection, well.

He's no tinkerer, but he knows the signs of weapons. These...could easily become troublesome. Some asking around leads him to Nogard, specifically a warehouse where he finds...

...

Honestly he's not sure what he expected, arching his formidable brow at the dismissive attitude. He reigns in annoyance, though, keeping his voice calm and level;]

What of special inquiries...?

[Eggman huffs in exasperation. Honestly, this is why he's never been a fan of retail. Everyone always wants something and then they demand that the establishment twist themselves into knots to accommodate. Honestly, who do these fictitious people he just invented think they are?? Him?!]

[He rubs his brow in annoyance and wheels around, opting to try and put on his best 'customer service' smile in an attempt to gloss over the very obviously sound of dissatisfaction he just made.]

Ah yes, special inquir—

[Eggman stops. He certainly wasn't expecting this enormous, imposing man with the all too serious demeanor.]

...That would depend on the inquiry.

[A slight hesdtilt. Ganondorf takes this opportunity to step further in, holding one of the Radniks in hand. Yes, he had bought one to closer investigate, and what he found...]

Bearing in mind I am not a man of craft, but a man of war...I know its signs when I see them.

[He lightly tosses his 'accessory' forwards, letting it scraaaape on the floor a bit before it comes to a halt before the Eggman. He lets silence linger for a moment before making his point;]

What else have you crafted before these, Doctor?

[Eggman's eyes fall to the 'Radnik' at his feet, a relic of a bygone era that he regards with cold indifference. Eggman doesn't relish looking to the past. He learns from his mistakes and presses onward.]

[This man speaks of war. Of weapons. He wants to know what he's crafted before?]

Ohoho...well now that is the question isn't it?

[A mirthful sneer spreads beneath his prodigious mustache.]

But you have me at a disadvantage. You appear to know me and can ascertain that I've some experience in weaponry. Surely, you don't expect me to divulge all of my secrets without at least offering up something in kind.

[Eggman stoops to pick up the device before tossing it over his shoulder for it to crash loudly on the floor behind him.]

Tell me, what would you do with tools of war, mysterious stranger? Entice me.

I am Ganondorf.

From where I come, they either fell to their knees before me, or they simply fell.

[No secrets here - and no shame, either. The Gerudo crosses his arms across his chest, regarding Eggman's little sneer, his demeanor, his...everything. Watching to see how he takes this information, this...declaration, and if he can pick up any of the implications therein.]

Well, there's certainly something that can be said for unflappable self-confidence, isn't there!

[Eggman steps forward and pinches the left end of his mustache as he sizes Ganondorf up. The man certainly had an imposing aura and Eggman certainly wasn't exactly put off by things he should, by no means, mess around with.]

[This seemed interesting.]

Well, Ganondorf, [What a name, he sounds like a video game character.] you mentioned a special inquiry. I will admit, you've piqued my interest but I'm afraid I have a bit of a disclaimer where special requests are concerned.

You see, there are people from my world here and they are rather adamant that I...play by certain rules. Insomuch that I actually play by given rules rather than simply destroy the board. So, what is it exactly you are after, hm~?

[Ah. Yes. Those who still operate...there's a long, put-upon sigh from the Demon King. As if he's somehow lowering himself to Eggman's level - metaphorically, of course, him being as tall as he is - but all told, the Doctor's responses have been...optimistic.]

While I am capable of much, I find my ship still lacking in its guard, particularly when I am not there to personally oversee its security. I wish to know if your automatons are capable of intercepting the sort of irritant that occasionally slips through its hull - and moreso, disposing of them, or at least either deterring or detaining them.

[And he drops his arms]

Now, tell me, Doctor - let us drop the pretenses. I could pay in mere coin, but surely you find other things of interest, as well...?

Ohohoho, 'drop the pretenses' he says! But that's all part of the game isn't it? Only a fool lays all of his cards out on the table at the start of the match! But, you see, perhaps a lateral shift in thinking may help. We're playing Poker when we should be playing Bridge.

[Eggman begins to pace, then wheels around emphatically thrusts a finger towards Ganondorf.]

Very well, I'll play my opening gambit right here! You wished to know my qualifications, then you shall have them. My name is Dr. Ivo Robotnik, one of the greatest minds my world has ever produced. Master in the field of robotics, I have constructed more doomsday weapons than I care to count. You wish for security aboard your ship? I can easily provide. Weaponry, proximity sensors, defense measures, methods of capture and subjugation, all trifles in my expansive repertoire. The only limit to me is my imagination and you'll be happy to know I am a bit of a dreamer.

Specifically, I dream of obliterating my enemies and shaping the world to my whims. Now, if that is something that interests you, I believe we can do business.

[It's a big play from his opening hand, but the feeling of malice Ganondorf seems to exude gives Eggman reason to believe that maybe his wish for an ally to better balance the scales may be on the verge of coming true. And there's nothing wrong with a bit of a gamble here and there.]

Edited 2025-04-07 02:45 (UTC)

[............

He knows neither of these games. But...he gets the implications. And as he hoped, it spurs the Doctor to drop the facade. There's the slightest of smirks on his face - an approving smirk - at the little display, for what is wrong with a little flaunting? As for whether it interests him...]

I imagine it depends on what those whims are, but I appreciate your enthusiasm.

Let us speak, then. Of how we can assist each other.

[Oh, he has no qualms that what Robotnik gives him will be given with certain contingencies - but he's far, far too polite to mention that aloud.]

Very well, but as I mentioned...I have a bit of a thorn in my shell.

You see, while my particular brand of technology is a novelty in this world, there are a handful of nuisances that are intimately familiar with my methods. Anything I use to upgrade your ship...well, they'll be able to spot the hallmarks of my genius several leviathans away, I'm afraid. And as much as I would love to destroy them, they've proven more tenacious than I could anticipate.

In short, they will be a problem. So, if you plan to make any waves I request that they be more a riptide than a tsunami.

[Draw them in and drown them rather than crush them with obvious and directionless fury.]

You are not the only one who has thorns.

[He holds up a hand, and- two figures form out of red-black shadowy flames, one on either side of him. One- a young woman, blue eyes and braided blonde hair. A delicate yet noble face, a determined expression-

Another one that Ivo may find recognizable. A certain darkhaired young man, cocky and grinning.]

These are two of mine. She is from my world. [A tilt of the head towards Zelda.] He - sometimes She - simply indulges in pestering me, and requires discipline.

[He lowers his hands, but the figures remain at his side, as if waiting for instructions. Though 'Ranma' looks a little bored as he puts his hands behind his head and looks around, with 'Zelda' half-raising a hand to her chest as Ganondorf takes a few steps away to turn and regard them both]

Edited 2025-04-07 03:03 (UTC)

[Eggman's eyebrows raise as Ganondorf conjures figures from seemingly nothing. He takes a step to examine them more closely.]

This one.

[Eggman gestures to the young man.]

I've encountered this one before. Bit of an idiot. In fact, he reminds me of a certain guardian echidna from my world. The good news is, those of his ilk are easily duped. In fact, I may have swayed him with the promise of a robot duplicate that he would could use to train with.

Though I may have failed to mention that said robot duplicate would not only match his strength, but seek to surpass him in every regard as well as remain solely loyal to me.

[He gestures to the girl.]

This one I know nothing of but if we're having a good ol' gossip about our enemies...

[Eggman fishes around into his pocket and scatters four discs on the floor, each one lights up to display a hologram of four...furry creatures. Three hedgehogs— a cocky blue one, a brooding black and red one, and an annoyingly upbeat pink one. The fourth? A two-tailed fox.]

[Eggman regards Ganondorf and seeks to cut off any attempt at mockery.]

They're far more formidable than they look.

[There's an eyebrow at the sight of those enemies, but...he does not comment on them, merely nodding at the remark. Instead he makes a gesture towards Zelda, allowing her to vanish into the same shadowsmoke as quickly as she appears.]

My puppet is capable of emulating him perfectly. Should you require a reference.

[For now, he's...walking around the four holograms, frowning slightly]

Their names?

Oh, a reference would be delightful. I'd like to gather some data from the original for appearances sake, of course. But perhaps I can perfect upon you little puppet~

[Eggman stalks around his own holograms, keeping them between himself and his newfound ally. As he walks, he places a hand over each of them as if this were a twisted game of Duck, Duck, Goose.]

The fox is Miles "Tails" Prower. Young but...adequate when it comes to technology. [Eggman's tone suggests that Tails is far more capable than he's willing to admit. He doesn't want to give the little kit the accolades. He's still a child as far as he's concerned.]

Of the four, he's the most intelligent. He's at least capable of seeing three moves ahead as opposed to my requisite five.

[Eggman moves and hovers a hand over the pink hedgehog.]

Amy Rose. More of the type to smash and then ask questions later. Her faith in her friends can easily be weaponized as it borders on naivety.

[Eggman continues to stand between the final two. On his right:]

Shadow the Hedgehog. The 'Ultimate Life Form' created by my grandfather. I would say he's the second greatest being he sired. Incredible speed, power, and the ability to warp reality with 'Chaos Control' though he's in need of a Chaos Emerald to properly utilize it. However here, he appears to be weakened. By how much, I would greatly enjoy finding out.

[And then finally on his left. When he utters the name, there's a twisted level of respect in his voice.]

Sonic the Hedgehog. The fastest thing alive. He has triumphed over me time and time again for years but here? Here I have a chance to destroy him. He's weaker. His stamina is limited.

[He fixes a stern gaze on Ganondorf.]

Make no mistake, whatever we do? This one is mine. I will see his reputation in tatters. His faith crumbled. I will see him broken and belittled and rent into a sliver of his former self. And only then will I decide his fate. No one else. Never anyone else.

[Eggman swipes his hands and the holograms vanish.]

Tell me of the girl of your world.

Edited 2025-04-07 04:26 (UTC)

Consider this a gesture of goodwill, then. He will assist you as needed- you need but order him. [Puppet Ramna steps forwards and gives a rogueish grin before finding someplace to...sort of climb onto and perch-watch.

The gesture is twofold, of course. The Puppet will relay all it sees to Ganondorf himself. If Robotnik doesn't realize this, then that's his own problem - but then, it's just as much a goodwill gesture if it's ordered to stay in the closet the whole time. True, it does siphon some of Ganondorf's power to maintain, but he has no need for it at the moment - and it's easy enough to remotely dismiss. For now, he observes and takes mental notes- lips quirking slightly at this Sonic.

Possessive.]

Princess Zelda of Hyrule. She holds a power over time; I have encountered her ages apart, with no signs of aging. No doubt partly due to her role as Sage, and holder of a Secret Stone.

She is...charismatic. Easily able to find allies and followers. Indeed, she seems to have found a replacement Knight already...whom I will take care of, personally. Much as you and your...Sonic.

[If you touch his things, he'll break yours. Just saying.]

[Eggman's brow visibly rises.]

'Power over time?' [Now THAT is interesting.]

This 'Secret Stone.' Does she have it here?

[Oh, the things he could do with power like that. Especially against the 'fastest thing alive.']

[But Eggman turns his attention to the Puppet Ranma. He can use this if just for some added muscle. He does so miss having lackeys to boss around.]

Your generosity is appreciated and I would like to return the gesture in kind!

[Not to be outdone, Eggman makes his way over to his workbench where he picks up the Buzzbomber he had been working on. He activates it and sends it buzzing over to Ganondorf before tossing him a simple remote. This Buzzbomber is larger than its Radnik counterparts, about the size of a falcon, and equipped with a retractable stinger.]

Two months ago during the Dragon's Gale, I did some work for some of the natives. I was dabbling in poisons thanks to their teachings and I was in the process of equipping Buzzbomber here with some notably potent results. Nothing lethal but powerful enough to subdue and send the recipient on a rather terrible journey if you catch my meaning. Buzzbombers make excellent long range scouts as well, and should be more than capable of keeping an eye out for you while I work on upgrading your defenses.

She does. Though she no doubt keeps it hidden.

[Says the man with a stone embedded in his forehead- to be fair, it could easily be mistaken as some sort of adornment, what with the gold radiating from it.

As for the...Buzzbomber. He instinctively raises his arm like a falconer, presenting it for the Buzzbomber to land on- before noticing the thing being tossed, and catching it with a raised eyebrow. He'll...have to experiment. Like hell he's asking for instructions.]

Noted. My ship, the Scourge, is docked here- I will inform the crew you may come aboard.

Lucky me, I do so love a good treasure hunt.

[Eggman literally cannot resist wringing his hands at the bevy of ideas springing to mind.]

And she has a knight, you say? How predictable. Fortunately, the knights tend to come out first. Though...perhaps in this case, the pawns might be better suited...

[He waves the notion away.]

No, mustn't be over-eager. This partnership will require finesse. But, if it's all the same to you, I would humbly ask for any information you have on this Princess and her allies. I, naturally, will give you my extensive notes on my adversaries as well.

In the meantime, here's to happy conquerings, Ganondorf.

[He thrusts an open palm out towards Ganondorf with the intent to shake.]

[Eyebrow arch. He briefly entertains the thought of the good Doctor obtaining the stone, wondering what element he would attune to...then dismisses it. It matters not, ultimately. What matters is the facilitation of his plans.

So. He offers his own massive hand, taking the other's.]

Indeed, Doctor Robotnik.

I presume we shall keep our relationship purely professional to those curious. Send me a bill as custom dictates, and I will ensure discretion of our other dealings.

[beat]

...what effect does your creation have upon common animals?

[bruh he has a cat]

I think that depends on what you want to happen to said animals.

I can program them with a host of failsafes to ensure that certain individuals are registered as a "non-threat." Defenses are hardly useful if they cannot differentiate friend from foe.

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Gloom Egg Zone Act I

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