A blinding flash erupted, leaving only searing whiteness. When vision returned, a cold realization struck: Ivo had activated the device. Without a word.

Panic propelled you through the sterile halls to the main lab. The console hummed, lights flickering erratically. He was gone. The frantic denial was so consuming you didn't see the obstacle.

You collided with a firm, unexpected mass, stumbling back with a soft "oof."

"Oh, blast it, I'm so dreadfully sorry, I—" The apology died in your throat.

The world shrank, focusing on the three figures now standing there. Three identical men.

Boom Eggman spun around, surprised by the impact. All three turned, their attention snapping to you.

"Aha! There you are! Perfect timing for introductions!" Eggman X exclaimed, striding forward to throw a possessive arm around your shoulders. He pivoted you to face his counterparts.

"A human? You employ a human?" Boom blurted out, squinting in incredulity.

"A human lackey is profoundly impractical," Classic Eggman snorted, radiating pure disdain. "A liability."

Eggman X chuckled. "A misunderstanding, gentlemen. This is my spouse."

The revelation hit like a physical blow. Boom choked on a sudden coughing fit. Classic's face contorted into a spectacular grimace of disgust.

Eggman X beamed with pride, giving you a patronizing pat. "Adorable, isn't they? A certified genius with an IQ of 301."

Classic's stoic facade cracked, his eyes widening comically. Boom clutched the sides of his head. "I beg your pardon, 301?!" he huffed, his fragile ego bruised. "A single point is statistically insignificant!"

"Hmm. Not a bad match, all factors considered," Classic mused, his tone shifting to clinical calculation. He leaned in to examine you like a curious artifact. "Wherever did you find such a specimen?"

The question seemed to deflate Eggman X's triumph. "Where I found them is where I claimed them," he retorted defensively, pulling you closer against his chest.

Classic snorted. "Desperation. As if I have time for such frivolities."

"Y-yeah," Boom agreed too quickly, awkwardly dropping a half-extended hand. "Uh, hi. I'm Eggman... nice to meet you, I guess?" He offered a strained, clumsy smile.

"Good grief, the sheer idiocy on display," Classic grumbled, turning away in contempt.