Ten years have passed since Dr. Eggman’s final defeat, and Mobius has settled into a peaceful rhythm. Nature and technology coexist: Green Hill’s rolling hills now border tidy suburbs, and small Chao gardens dot front yards. Yet for the heroes who once raced into danger, peace can feel surprisingly quiet.

Sonic awoke at dawn in his modest home on the outskirts of Green Hill Zone. He stretched out on the porch, breathing in the morning air, gold light dancing on his blue quills. Beside him, Amy Rose bustled in the kitchen, humming softly as she prepared breakfast for their son, Spike. The little hedgehog—half Amy’s rosy smile, half Sonic’s energetic spark—chattered excitedly about today’s plan.

“Dad, can we go really fast today?” Spike pleaded, eyes shining.

Sonic ruffled his son’s quills and grinned. “Maybe later, buddy. But first… surprise!”

Amy leaned in close. “Your old friends are arriving soon.” Sonic’s grin widened into a full smile—but beneath it lay a flutter of anticipation. Even heroes need the comfort of old comrades.

A moment later, Tails arrived at the doorstep, now a young adult with goggles perched on his forehead and a belt of tools slung over his shoulder. Hot on his heels came Knuckles, who still exuded raw strength, and Rouge, whose confident smirk hadn’t faded with time. Bright as ever, Spike raced forward to greet them.

“Uncle Tails! Uncle Knux! Aunt Rouge!” he squealed.

Tails scooped up Spike and handed him a small mechanical pod. “Thought you’d like a new coding project,” he said fondly. Rouge produced jeweled-themed snacks, and Knuckles just rumbled a greeting, though his eyes sparkled—peace was nice, but he clearly missed the thrill of combat.

As the laughter and reunion warmed the living room, Sonic glanced through the window at the silhouette of Eggman’s old factory in the distance. He couldn’t shake the feeling that something lay dormant there, waiting.