Castle Mephisto

Infinite is still using the Phantom Ruby's influence to crush the three...

...
...What is this? Have you already given up? It would appear that my skill with the Phantom Ruby greatly surpasses your own... Though, seeing as I was the first between the two of us to have one, I suppose it only makes sense.
In any case, it matters not. Once I crush you pathetic lot, I will move on to have vengeance against that pathetic Hedgehog who DARED to stand in my way. And then- and ONLY then- will I-

Suddenly, Theta Mephisto's own Phantom Ruby flashes, as Theta awakens.

I'm sorry, were you saying something? I was in the middle of something.
...What...? What could you have possibly been busy with?

---

GLSF More Gun (A few minutes ago)

Suddenly, Theta Mephisto (or, rather, a clone of him) appears. Also, the sounds of any sort-of barrier preventing him from entering shattering occurs.

...Sorry, no. If I let you keep that Agate, then Pi Android's just gonna rush in to say something like "blah blah blah the plot says no" and take it away. So, I'm afraid I'm gonna have to take it from you myself.

Suddenly, the Soul Agate is warped into Theta's hand!

And before you disagree. I didn't come here to steal, for the record. I came here for some equivalent exchange.

Suddenly, in Seija's hand, an exact replica of the Soul Agate appears!

There. See? I can be a nice guy when I want to be. That Soul Agate is 100% identical to the real deal, power and all.
There's just one catch to this duplicate, however... Seija is the ONLY one who can use it. Nobody else will be able to tap into its power.

Well, adios. The masked edgelord isn't gonna beat himself.

The Theta clone- as well as the real Soul Agate- disappears. Also, the previously mentioned barrier is automatically repaired, and even reinforced to prevent similar intrusions in the future.

---

Castle Mephisto (Now)

Well, it doesn't matter... Because now you will-
Yeah, yeah, whatever. Wanna see something cool?

Suddenly, Theta powers up. Then, with a flash of green, he goes into his Final Limit form, breaking himself- as well as Phi and Dub Eggman- free from Infinite's grasp!

What the-!?
What? You think you're all that, because you have a fancy gemstone!? Well, let me tell you something, pal; I don't even NEED my Phantom Ruby to beat the living out of you.

Theta then charges forward in a green blur, ripping off the head of Theta Devil!

You go on and on about how the "tallest of mountains*", and the "toughest of terrors*". What the hell have you even ACHIEVED without the Phantom Ruby, exactly?

Theta then rushes to Infinite, grabbing him by the neck.

You only ever defeated Sonic because of a mere stone. And even THEN, you LOST in the rematch. You used to be the leader of mercenaries... The ONLY thing you EVER had going for you before your little pebble. I, on the other hand...

Theta grabs Infinite's Phantom Ruby and rips it out of Infinite's chest, crushing it to dust!

(Character limit reached)

---

*Reference: Infinite's theme in Sonic Forces

The group watches the commotion outside...







I'm with Papyrus! With Papyrus! I'm tired of sitting around doing nothing but this boring mundane Pizzeria work! I wanna get involved with some action! Some action, SQUAWK!













And-a all that-a I can-a do is-a make-a pizza! (Among-a other foods, of-a course...)

Sniper Giuseppe
Maker of Pizzas

Oh, that's just your own experiences! Own experiences! Come on! Where is your sense of adventure? Sense of adventure, SQUAWK!
Sabata, you're with us on this, right? With us, right? After all, dimensional barrier or no barrier, we still have to protect Cranky Kong! Protect Cranky, SQUAWK!

---

Central Highway

Beat the Sigma Virus out of... What are you talking about?
Not iX, that's for sure; I'm pretty sure he's referring to Dr. Doppler. Though, I'm not quite sure if "beating the Sigma Virus out of him" is accurate.
Though, that DOES raise the question of HOW he even knows all this-

Suddenly, a figure warps in.

Don't ask questions you aren't ready to learn the answer to.

Omega Element
Author of Smacked Jeeves

Huh? Who are you? Are you here to help?
Not really. But, since I am here, guess I might as well check up on everyone else.

Omega warps off to where Doppler and the others are.

---

...So... How are things holding up for you guys?

---

Sky High Zone

Mega Man helps Beck up.

I think you were being controlled by a strange, purple mist... Seems like we were able to snap you out of it.
...Who are you, by the way? I don't think we've met before...

---

Cranky's Hut

Agh! Call an ambulance! Call an ambulance!

Suddenly, Coda Surge strikes Yodh with an extremely powerful electric attack... Very effectively healing him, as well as boosting his own power.

But not for me.

Yodh then releases double the amount of power Surge used on him against the gold robot!

---

Angel Island - Angel Island Zone

Unfortunately, despite the luck in dodging the sparkles, Saktira ends up incapable of avoiding a spinning, red ball burrowing from out of the ground... of which then reveals itself.

...!

Classic Knuckles proceeds to try and punch Saktira CC... Only for his arm to be grabbed by two.

Knuckles, wait! We've been over this! Don't just attack anyone without reason!
...

Classic Knuckles proceeds to stand down.

Sorry about him... Our counterparts of this dimension left us in charge of the Master Emerald, and Knuckles tends to be rather... on-edge.

Basic Info

Name: Missingno. (+ Missingno. +)
Fighting Style: Intelligence
Classification: Missing Number Pokemon

Punches
Normal Punch: Cut
Heavy Punch: Mega Punch
Low Punch: Comet Punch
Midair Punch: Dizzy Punch

Kicks
Normal Kick: Stomp
Heavy Kick: Mega Kick
Low Kick: Low Kick
Midair Kick: Jump Kick (Hi Jump Kick if Heavy)

Special
Normal Special: Dome Scythe
Heavy Special: Helix Tendril
Low Special: Water Gun

Power Gauge
Hyper Attack: Sky Attack - An incredibly powerful strike that starts by Missingno. charging up power, before releasing it in the shape of a bird.
Ultra Attack: Surf - A multi-hitting attack that is incredibly hard to avoid. A wave crashes onto the scene, with Missingno. surfing on top of it on the surf sprite from Pokemon Red & Blue.
Omega Attack: Glitch Matrix - A fanmade Z-Move for Glitch-type Pokemon/Moves. Missingno. splits into a barrage of pixels that pierce through the foe and reassembles behind them, before finishing off with a powerful slash from the Dome Scythe, splitting even the screen (for a brief moment).

Taunts
Taunt Animation: Raises his hand in front of him, an aura of glitches surrounding it.
Taunt Quote 1: Game on.
Taunt Quote 2: Son of a glitch...
Taunt Quote 3: *Wii Crash Sound*

Intro Quotes
Intro Quote 1: Seems there’s a glitch in the matrix...
Intro Quote 2: Time to wipe the save data known as your life.
Intro Quote 3: Go ahead. TRY and debug me. I dare you.

Victory Quotes
Victory Quote 1: A fatal error has occurred.
Victory Quote 2: Would you like to file a report? ...Yeah, you’re right, nobody does that.
Victory Quote 3: Sorry, but deleting me is not an option.

Special Quotes- as well as updates to other characters' quotes, and any other future quotes- can be found here.

Intro/Victory Animations
Intro Animation 1: Missingno.’s sprite form appears, entering the already-present vessel he uses as a body.
Intro Animation 2: A greyscale Pokeball appears, releasing Missingno. At the bottom, a dialogue box states either “Go, MissingNo.!” if he’s Player 1, or “Trainer ZZAZZ* sent out MISSINGNO.!” if he’s Player 2.
Intro Animation 3: Missingno. simply slides onto the scene. A dialogue box on the bottom appears, reading “Wild MISSINGNO. appeared!”
Victory Animation 1: Missingno. turns his back to his foe, walking away. Suddenly, everything freezes into black and white, as a textbox on the bottom reads “PLAYER blacked out!”
Victory Animation 2: A greyscale Pokeball lays in the middle of the field. It shakes once, twice, three times... Then releases Missingno., who poses similarly to Blue’s sprite in Red/Blue in a mocking manner. A dialogue box on the bottom reads “Shoot! It was so close too!”
Victory Animation 3: Missingno. has his back on the screen... Then, suddenly, the Ghost appears to spook the player, as Missingno. looks back with a mocking smirk. A dialogue box on the bottom reads “Darn! The GHOST can’t be ID’d!”

Miscellaneous
Bio: “Missingno. is a programming perk, and not a real part of the game.” That is what Nintendo stated about this glitch Pokemon. But if you ask him, he’s no mistake; He was merely deemed one by Arceus, a mistake that he will deeply regret... Or so he would say. He seems to have no interest in the Ultra Gems, but rather in testing his strength against the others of this world.

Ending:
...Well, now. This was... Surprisingly entertaining.
The world and their warriors are ever-growing... Reaching the top of this hill was not an easy feat, nor do I have any confidence that it will last... Still, this win was rather satisfying, for what it is.
You should feel proud of yourself, too. Your efforts in this endeavor are not to be overlooked... Perhaps leave your seat, and treat yourself to a little something.
...Still, the next challenge awaits. And if I learned anything from this... It’s that I won’t be able to handle everything on my own for long.
...The question is... Where am I to find a good subordinate...?

---

*Missingno. doesn't actually have a trainer; This is simply used as a means of reference. Speaking of, props to whoever understands where the name "ZZAZZ" came from.

Little Papa Beta's

Unfortunately, a strange sort-of barrier* prevents whoever was trying to enter the Pizzeria from entering... Or smashing the window. (Of which happened so few times already that the windows were long since replaced with indestructible windows, anyways.)

...And since I haven't exactly gotten into any sort of story-continuing mood just yet, this is all this post is going to be. Just a simple no-entry message.

---

*Back during the start of the Dead Zone Arc, Mighty placed the Pizzeria within a pocket dimension, of which allows for both Mighty and Beta Shadow to control who is allowed to enter. Beta Shadow has since made it to where only friends/allies Beta Shadow can trust, customers, and employees can enter the Pizzeria.

The group walks up to Beck DS.

...So... Is-a he going to be alright?
Don't worry, I'm sure he'll be just fine.

Meanwhile, Justice Man lands down next to Mega Man.

Oh, hey there. Thanks for the help!
...You don't even know me at all, do you?
Am I... Supposed to?
...
...No. No, I suppose not.
Ok...? Can I get a name, then?
...Justice Man. My name is Justice Man.

Justice Man then gets ready to leave.

Huh? Where are you going?
Away from here. I stand for liberty and freedom... So I prefer to be on my own.
Hey, wait-!

Justice Man then flies off elsewhere.

...

---

Cranky's Hut

After being blown away by the Cosmos Cannon, Corrupt Yodh immediately returns!

Oh, good. Maybe I won't be so bored after all.

Yodh then proceeds to pull out an electrified blade, swinging the blade at lightspeed!

---

Central Highway

I don't know who this "Dyna Man" is, but-

X then realizes that he is talking to sentient cardboard. He then looks over to Zero in confusion.

Yeah, I had that moment, too.
*Ahem* As I was saying... No apologies, Mr. ...Living Cardboard... But I don't exactly know you well enough to trust your word.
And, though, as much as I would trust him less... I'm only going to believe that iX is a better person once I hear the full story from HIM.

Suddenly, Nightmare Colonel's blade is handed to X.

Well, we'll save the talk for AFTER the fight.

X simply nods in agreement, then proceeds to take a fighting stance next to Zero.

---

Castle Mephisto

Back with Gamma Jewel and Gamma Angel, it would appear the latter has been completely beaten down.

(This power... There's only one other person I know who has this sort of power...)
I warned you. I god WARNED you that you wouldn't like what you ing saw. The next ing time you ask for my worst, you'd better well be prepared to-
Time out. How did you obtain this sort of power?
...Really? What, do you think I just spend my time doing jack sh-
You KNOW that this technique- that Primal Instinct*- could only be used by Shaggy Rojo**. How could you have POSSIBLY obtained it?
...That's for me to know, and for you to SCREW OFF.

Gamma Jewel proceeds to grab Gamma Angel, then flings him through the nearest window, into the distance. He then takes a deep breath in, then out, reverting to normal form.

---

Yodh Rapier - (Electric/Cutter) A blade shrouded in a powerful electricity that allows the user to strike at incredibly high speeds. The blade itself is capable of piercing through any form of shields, and even cancels all forms of blocking and counterattacks.

---

*Yes, the same form used by Shaggy Negro; At the moment, Gamma Jewel can only access its lesser stages. (Don't worry, Red said he was cool with it.)
*Shaggy's Mirror Dimension counterpart. Also, for the record, Gamma Angel is unaware of Shaggy Negro's existence.

...
...Huh, would you look at that. Nobody's home... What a shame. I was hoping to make that old man beg for death.

Corrupt Yodh*
The Thundery Sadist

Beta Man of Universe MMRPG-DMTOTML-NLD

...So, do we go back and inform Coda, or...?

Coda Defense
Corrupted Defensive Offense

...Trash the place.
Are you sure?
Very. If we cause a ruckus, we'll catch someone's attention. And then, we won't have to return to Coda without anything to report on.
...You're the boss. (I suppose...)

Corrupt Yodh charges an electrical ball in his hands, then releases it, using it to blow up Cranky's piano!

---

Central Highway

As Zero readies for whatever Nightmare Iris' next attack will be, X proceeds to catch up with him.

Guess you made it here alright, after all.
What, and let this attack escalate any further? What kind of Maverick Hunter would I be if I did such a thing?
That aside... Would you happen to know anything about why both iX AND Dr. Doppler are not only here, but alive?
Well, I was going to ask iX about that after everything else here is dealt with, but-
Wait, WHO is here!?

---

Sky High Zone

As the group stands behind the shielding move...

...Wait. Has-a anyone seen-a Soni-

LASER!

Suddenly, Sonic- surrounded in a cyan, laser-like energy- barrels directly into Beck DS at blinding speed!

...Oh. Nevermind.

---

Yodh Node - (Electric/Explode) The user charges up a ball of electrical energy that explodes upon contact. Also deals electrical DoT (Damage over Time).

Color Power - A power granted to those through the absorption of Wisps. These powers depend on the color/type of Wisp.
Cyan Laser - (Laser)** A Color Power granted by Cyan Wisps. Transforms the user into a speeding laser-like projectile that damages foes and bounces off of surfaces.

---

*Previously known as Yf Man. Named after the Phoenician equivalent of the Greek letter Iota.
**The Freeze typing is used strictly for aesthetic purposes.

A strange energy simply halts Phi's missiles, before turning them right back around!

So, this is your first attack? Hmph... How pathetic.

Infinite
Phantom Jackal Mercenary

You... How are you even alive!? And with that Phantom Ruby, no less...

Actually, did Infinite ever really die? I kinda feel like his fate in Forces was left open-ended...

That's because Forces was underdeveloped, half-assed, and weak overall.

Theta Mephisto is suddenly blasted by Infinite by a red, glitched cube.

Oh? Did I strike a nerve? Man, I didn't think you'd still be sour over that... But seeing as you're still hiding behind that mask, I guess you never even matured at all, did you?
SILENCE!

Theta, Phi, and Fandub Eggman are all restrained- and even choked- by Infinite's Phantom Ruby!

I'll show you all... I have grown stronger than the pathetic weakling I once was... And I will NOT fail like I have before!
...You know, you're REALLY starting to sound a whole lot like Jazz before he-

A stronger force proceeds to continue crushing the three...

---

Central Highway

(Now!)

With Nightmare Iris distracted by Cardboard Phantasm, Zero proceeds to strike with a Ryuenjin!

---

Meanwhile, X proceeds to charge at Nightmare Curtiss with a charged Speed Burner!

---

Cranky's Hut

Suddenly, a group of three shadows loom over the hut...

...

The leader of the group proceeds to blow a hole in the roof!

---

Ryuenjin - (Flame/Cutter) An upwards slash with a flaming saber. Deals multiple hits.

Speed Burner - (Flame/Swift) Shoots a pair of intertwined fireballs that travel in a straight path, leaving behind a trail of smaller fires. (Charged: Has the user charge forwards at high speeds while engulfed in flames.) (Not to be confused with Speed Burn)

---

...Well, now. How cunningly devilish... Two can play at that game, Coda. I just need to choose the right pieces for this little game of Chess you've chosen to play...

Hey look, we're back.

You know, we've brought up Mega Man several times with our characters... Only makes sense that he himself makes an appearance, right?

Basic Info

Name: Mega Man (+ Mega Devil, Bad Box Art Mega Man/Bass/Proto Man)
Fighting Style: Defense
Classification: Super Fighting Robot

Punches
Normal Punch: Hook
Heavy Punch: Mega Upper
Low Punch: Jab
Midair Punch: Midair Jab

Kicks
Normal Kick: Kick
Heavy Kick: Mega Slide
Low Kick: Knee
Midair Kick: Dropkick

Special
Normal Special: Mega Buster
Heavy Special: Thunder Beam/Galaxy Bomb/Pile Driver
Low Special: Switch Weapons- Changes Mega Man's Heavy Special

Power Gauge
Hyper Attack: Rush Drill- Rush changes into a drill that Mega Man drives into opponents.
Ultra Attack: Magnetic Shockwave- Creates a line of vertical beams of magnetic energy in front of Mega Man that travels across the screen.
Omega Attack: Double Gear- Activates both the Speed Gear and the Power Gear, effectively making Mega Man stronger and faster.
Transformation Omega Attack: Final Charge Shot- Launches an extra-powerful Charged Shot that deals multiple hits. Is unique in that it will automatically occur after a set time period, regardless of how much of the Power Gauge is filled.

Taunts
Taunt Animation: Gives the screen a thumbs up.
Taunt Quote 1: Alright!
Taunt Quote 2: Let's do it!
Taunt Quote 3: Here we go!

BBA Taunt Quote 1: Yes!
BBA Taunt Quote 2: Hurrah!
BBA Taunt Quote 3: Hero time!

Intro Quotes
Intro Quote 1: "I'll fight for everlasting peace!"
Intro Quote 2: "I don't want to fight... But you leave me no choice!"
Intro Quote 3: "Alright, here goes!"

BBA Intro Quote 1: "I will fight for truth and justice!"
BBA Intro Quote 2: "Stand down, evildoers! (Mega Man/Bass/Proto Man) is here!"
BBA Intro Quote 3: "Gadzooks! This looks like a job for a hero!"

Victory Quotes
Victory Quote 1: "Alright, I did it!"
Victory Quote 2: "Rock on!"
Victory Quote 3: "Dr. Light, I've won!"

BBA Victory Quote 1: "Victory, for the forces of good and heroism!"
BBA Victory Quote 2: "So long as I stand, evil shall fall!"
BBA Victory Quote 3: "For the light of day, I win again!"

Additional Quotes Here

Intro/Victory Animations
Intro Animation 1: Warps in and pulls out his buster.
BBA Intro Animation 1: Walks in and pulls out his gun.
Intro Animation 2: Puts on his helmet and gets into a fighting stance.
Intro Animation 3: Flies in on Rush, then jumps off.
BBA Intro Animation 3: Rides in on a bike with a cardboard cutout of Rush's head on it.
Victory Animation 1: Does the Rockman 1 pose before warping off.
BBA Victory Animation 1: Does the pose from the boxart he originates from.
Victory Animation 2: Takes off his helmet and wipes his arm across his forehead.
Victory Animation 3: Jumps in the air to absorb weapon data, then shows a peace sign to the screen upon landing.
BBA Victory Animation 3: Jumps in the air as if to absorb weapon data, but then stumbles to the ground.

Miscellaneous
Bio: The Blue Bomber himself, Mega Man has always been there to preserve the idea of everlasting peace. Many times, he has been a wrench in the plans of Dr. Albert Wily, which is why he is here: He has come to believe that Dr. Wily has sent some of his robots to go after the Ultra Gems. And so, Mega Man at once set off to stop the doctor's schemes...

Ending:
Your plans have been foiled again, doctor!
Curse you, Mega Man... Just you wait! Next time, I'll win for sure!

The scene then changes to Dr. Light, Roll, and Mega Man (converted back to being Rock) celebrating the victory...

You did it, Rock! I knew you could!
Thanks, Roll. But...
Is something wrong, my boy...?
Nothing. It's just... Those Ultra Gems...
Ah, I see... Yes, I've been wondering about them, too... Just where did they come from...?
Hm... Well, whatever their origins may be, I'm just glad we were able to keep them out of Wily's hands...

Still... Maybe we'll find out someday...

The screen begins panning to the sky, before fading to black...

Ending (Bad Box Art): (Screenshot due to character limit)

(ooc: oh yeah the plot exists lol)

Central Highway

X, having been slightly knocked back by the boomerangs, proceeds to attack Nightmare Curtiss with a few Spin Wheels, with a charged one at the end of the barrage!

---

Zero continues to search for an opening...

---

Sky High Zone

Mega Man fires a few Gemini Lasers at Beck DS, while at the same time firing a few at the nearby walls in order to act as a sort-of cage in case Beck DS tries to dodge the lasers!

As that was happening...

...
( it... Why the hell are you hiding!? You're supposed to be fighting for liberty! For justice! For freedom!)
(This meeting was bound to happen, one way or another... Stop trying to hide from it, and get yourself out there!)
(Stop being a coward and fight, it!)

Justice Man proceeds to step out of hiding!

Hey, visor-face! How about you try some of THIS!

Justice proceeds to attack Beck DS with a Justice Beam!

---

Castle Mephisto

Theta Devil is currently backed against the wall...

...Alright, you nostalgia-indulgent fake. You're outnumbered and outmatched. So, before we wipe your mug off the face of the Earth, you will tell us EXACTLY how you managed to get in here.
...
...You wanna know so badly? Fine. I'll satiate your curiosity.

You know how there are equivalents to certain people and objects across different worlds?
...Go on.
Well... I'm sure you ALSO know that the barrier you created to prevent others from entering was caused by your Phantom Ruby. So it would be fair to say that an object that is equal to its illusory power could just as simply nullify those effects. This has been seen in action before*, after all.
...What are you implying?
Well... Recall how Ali Tachyos mentioned there being a second Chaos Heart.
You know, I kinda wish Rotom would just change the name. The Chaos Heart already existed beforehand**.
Regardless. If there is a second Chaos Heart that exists... Who's to say there can't be a second Phantom Ruby hiding about?
...You're kidding me. Are you saying that Beta Devil has his hands on his OWN Phantom Ruby!?
Oh, Beta Devil doesn't have it...

Suddenly, a bunch of cannons are fired at Theta Mephisto, who barely manages to dodge it!

...HE does.

A figure then looms above the Theta Team...

...

---

Spin Wheel - (Cutter/Swift) A saw-like disc that moves along surfaces. Can be used to destroy obstacles. (Charged: Launches a Spin Wheel that, upon contact with an enemy, splits into eight bolts of energy that is fired in all directions.)
Justice Beam (RECAP) - (Neutral/Energy) A powerful blast of pure energy from the ground.

---

*Reference: Sonic Forces - [The Rookie/Avatar character using a prototype Phantom Ruby to cancel out some of the effects of Infinite's own Phantom Ruby.]{spoiler}
**The original Chaos Zone, Page 185, Post #16.

Alright, but you mind explaining to us why we were sent here?
Well, tell me: What do any of you know about the 4th Wall?
...
...None of you, of course. Fantastic. That only makes it HARDER to explain.

Alright, how about this: Do any of you believe in a higher power?
Wait, is this one of those hierarchy things? Because we're somewhat familiar with that.
...Really? Given who claimed you before, and the point of the roleplay when he did, I didn't really expect...
...Nevermind, not important.

The point is, your original Reaper has decided to discard you, transferring you under the control of a different Reaper... Meaning your personalized Afterlife has changed as well.
Alright... So, you mind telling me why we're in Hell?
Yeah, not to be raising my own tides here, but I personally think I belong moreso in-
You are here because REGARDLESS of who you think you lot are, you STILL are responsible for attempted domination of the entire known Galaxy*, as well as attempted domination- and later destruction- of the entire known Universe**, and I personally am not so forgiving.

...You can rejoice in this one factor, however: Given your particular roles in BOTH events- and especially in regards to your actions regarding the Hyper Limited-, you shall only be suffering Layer 1 levels of torture.
...And that is...?
Oh, only the heat. Other than that, you're basically free to do whatever you want. You can even go and visit any of the other layers down to Layer 7, long as you don't provoke any of the other victims down there without permission.
Wait, does this mean I can blow things up!?
Go nuts. In fact, I'd encourage it the most down in Layer 3. There's a particular Sniper Joe down there who hates explosions.

Mars had already left the scene after Beta X said "Go nuts."

What exactly is a Sniper Joe of all things doing in Layer 3?
He tortured a team of 4 and attempted to kill a young Heli Metall.
...Yeah, that makes about sense.
Wait, so we're allowed in any layer of Hell?
Not all of them. Just up to the 7th.
...I thought there were ONLY 7 layers.
...
...During Halloween of 2020, I had to create a new layer of Hell for a rather... particular case.
Really? Huh... Who could be so evil as to need a whole new layer to themselves?
...I did so as more of a... preservative measure. This particular figure has managed to cheat death before... Which is why I made such a layer of Hell.
...It is also why I've made it prohibited for ANYONE- even those under the rather loose Layer 1 restrictions, or even those who WORK down here- to EVER enter the 8th Layer.
...If you'd like a tour of the rest of Hell, take it up to one of the workers. It'll take a while for me to get to you, though; I'm still in the middle of doing the same for some strange, purple alien.

Beta X leaves the scene...

---

*The events of Mega Man World 5/Mega Man V
**The role of the Hyper Limited Stardroids back in the Beta Devil Arc.

Joyous Tower - Floor 100

Beta Shadow charges up another Shadow Buster shot in his fingertips...

---

The Dead Zone

Suddenly, for the 6 Stardroids... Dead Zone Portals open up!?

...Where in Poseidon's* name did these come from...?
WHO CARES!? I'm finally free!

Pluto quickly rushes into the portal. Meanwhile, Mars, Jupiter, and Venus go through their own respective Dead Zone portals, whereas Uranus and Neptune are reluctant, both for their own particular reasons...

I... I'm not sure if I should... All this pretty pottery...
And I find myself rather comfortable here... I think I'd prefer to remain here than-

Suddenly, a flaming, skeletal hand comes from out of the two portals, grabbing the two!

Get over here.

The two Stardroids are dragged into the portals, which then all close!

---

Hell-BS**

Confused as to why the Dead Zone portals led to such a strange, hellish landscape, the 6 Stardroids are greeted by a purple-armored figure...

Greetings. I am sure you are wondering why you are here... I am also certain that you think you were brought back to life... Allow me to dash those thoughts straight away. You aren't being revived. You are being transferred.
You may refer to me as Beta X... And I welcome you all to Hell.

..........
...I miss my aquatic afterlife already.

Pluto smacks Neptune in the back of the head, who rubs it in response.

---

*Ironic, isn't it?
**The official name for the personalized version of Hell for Beta Shadow's antagonists.

Central Highway

X suddenly stands in Nightmare Curtiss' way!

I don't think so!

X fires a Plasma Charged Shot at Nightmare Curtiss point-blank!

---

Taking damage from the Nightmare Rain, though otherwise unphased, Zero brings his attention to the Star of Ninja. Unfortunately, the OOPart is incompatible with him for some odd reason*...

(...I'm not sure what this thing is... But it might be important to hold onto, at least for now.)
(Still... What do these guys want from this thing...?)

Zero looks over to RX...

(...Well, if not from these nightmares... I think I know EXACTLY who I am going to ask about this thing once this is over.)

Zero waits for an opening before striking at Nightmare Iris with his Z-Saber!

---

The Dead Zone

...Somehow, a particular group** manages to contact each other...

...Urgh... I HATE this place! It's so BORING! Not a SINGLE thing to blow up in here!

Mars
Explosive Strategist

Believe me, I'd switch places with you if I could... I'm sure you'd LOVE the place I'm i-

Jupiter
High-Flying Fighter

An explosion is heard on Jupiter's end, followed by a yelp...

...They even stricted me of my flight... *Sniffle*...
I'd rather be ALIVE, like Terra and Mercury! It's just... I didn't think MY afterlife would be so...

The screen pans out to reveal... An ordinary house? However, nothing fragile can be seen in the house, including windows.

...Mundane.
JUST BLOW THE WHOLE PLACE UP IF YOU HATE IT SO MUCH!

Venus
Crab-Walking Clean Freak

YOU THINK I HAVEN'T TRIED THAT!? EVERYTHING IN THIS PLACE IS COMPLETELY INDESTRUCTIBLE! Not to mention I'm strict of ALL my explosives! All my most valuable weapons in my collection are GONE!
...*Sigh* You're right, I'm sorry. It's just... This place is so FILTHY! It IRRITATES me, and every time I move in here, some voice I don't even know laughs at the way I walk!
Wait, you actually get to move? I'm completely stuck in place here!

Uranus
Bullish Bru- ...Why are you snickering? Stop that.

Geez, sorry to hear that, Uranus... Uh, what exactly is keeping you in place, exactly?

---

Uranus appears to be trapped in the middle of an... endless fancy pottery store? A lot of red seems to be everywhere, too...

...My own self-restraint.
I don't have a problem with this place. This undersea paradise is absolutely astounding!

Neptune
King of the Sea

Suddenly, another robot prances on Neptune's shoulder!

Says you! Get me out of this aquatic hellhole! It's cold and wet!

Pluto
Astronomic Feline

---

*...Yeah, sorry, but I have no idea how I'd be able to make Wood Ninja Zero, if that was the intent.
**When discussing the newly-released mugs of the Stardroids on Discord, I brought up the fact that all the Stardroids were already claimed by HighTower. However, he stated that he only needs Terra, Mercury, and Saturn, effectively leaving the rest of them under my ownership, instead.

Central Highway

Zero is taken aback, then quickly regains his composure...

(...I don't want to go thinking this is the real Iris... She died in my arms... She was beyond repair...)
(...But, at the same time... HE is supposed to have been gone, too... And yet, if this virus still lives on, then...)
...I'm not sure if we'd see some form of "Nightmare Sigma" at some point, but-

...And then quickly loses it again, only this time out of sheer bewilderment at the sight of a sentient cardboard cut-out.

...
...This is going to be one of those days, isn't it?

Zero then notices Dr. Doppler's group in the distance... followed by X, iX, Phantasm, and Shired fighting Nightmare Curtiss in distance of that.

...And things just keep getting better.

---

To continue the pressure, X follows up with Homing Torpedoes!

---

Sky High Zone

As Mega Man hops on Rush to avoid the Swamp (via Rush Jet), Mega Man proceeds to provide Item 1 platforms in order to keep anyone else safe!

(...Wait a second... This almost reminds me of...)

***

(...If this guy is anything like those three, then...)

Mega Man proceeds to equip a Laser Core!

(...There's no evidence pointing to this working like it has before... But it's better to try it than trying nothing at all.)

Mega Man fires a Core Laser at Beck DS!

---

Homing Torpedoes - (Missile) A charged version of Tracking Missile*. Launches 4-6** homing missiles that boast increased firepower and mobility in comparison to its uncharged variant.
Tracking Missile - (Missile) A small missile that seeks out the nearest enemy.

---

*As the uncharged version is called in Mega Man X DiVE.
**4 in Mega Man X, 6 in Mega Man Maverick Hunter X.
***Mega Man DS, Bass DS, and Proto Man DS, from Mega Man RPG proper. (The mugshots of their Chaos Zone counterparts- especially Mega Man DS- have been inspired by a mugshot created by toasticidal.)

X activates Chameleon Sting's Transparency before attacking with a few Flash Lasers.

---

Suddenly, Nightmare Colonel is struck in the back... By his own blade!?

...The Nightmare Phenomenon... I thought me and X got rid of this sort of thing after we...*
...Hmph, nevermind... Still... I believe you dropped this, "Colonel".

---

Doppler Labs



Fortem- Who, alongside everyone else who didn't go with Missingno. or Sonic, seems to have let himself in- walks up to Quin.

**


Fortem holds out his hand for a handshake.

---

Sky High Zone

As Mario and Luigi manages to jump over the attack, Beck DS finds himself knocked back by a Homing Attack!

Well, something tells me that this isn't how this guy is supposed to be... I say we try to make him snap out of it!
Right!

Mega Man throws a few Metal Blades at Beck DS!

---

Flash Laser - (Shadow/Laser) Sends out a remote-controlled firefly-like projectile that disappears when hitting an enemy or wall. The light trail it leaves behind also damages enemies. (Charged: Fires a large laser beam.)

---

*The Nightmare Phenomenon was a virus created back in Mega Man X6 from remnants of Zero's DNA found in the remains of Eurasia, and was the main focus of the game. I'd say by who, but... Well, you'll see. (At least I am assuming that's what all of this is supposed to be.)
**Reference: 2k Arc- Referring to the Mario Kart 64 torunament that made up the... "main focus" of the arc. Both Fortem and Quin were participants.

Well, now... It seems that the back-up has arrived. You might not have had a chance before, but NOW your destruction is assur-
WORD FROM THE BOSS. WE ARE DONE HERE.
...Excuse me...?
CODA HAS INFORMED ME TO TELL YOU THAT-
I heard you the first time, tin can! Why is the boss recalling me now when I can crush these fools so easily!?
YES. BECAUSE YOU WERE DOING AN EXCELLENT JOB OF THAT EARLIER.
Sarcasm noted, scrap metal. And for the record, it's not my fault that other green hedgehog resorted to such a cheap trick!
Other green hedgehog...? What are you-
THIS DOESN'T CONCERN YOU, WORTHLESS ORGANIC. IT'D BE WISE OF YOU TO STAY OUT OF IT.

So, that's what this is about! You're just holding me back because of your stupid superiority complex!
...FIRST OF ALL, IT IS NO COMPLEX. IT IS SIMPLY LOGICAL THAT MACHINES ARE SUPERIOR TO FRAIL, WEAK-MINDED ORGANICS. SECONDLY, IF I WAS DOING THINGS FOR THAT REASON, I WOULD'VE INSTEAD LEFT YOU ALONE TO LET YOUR FOOLISHNESS LEAD YOU TO YOUR DEMISE.
HOWEVER, AS MUCH AS I WOULD PREFER THAT, I MUST ABIDE TO CODA'S COMMAND IN ORDER TO OBTAIN THE POWER I NEED TO COMPLETE MY GOALS... EVEN IF IT MEANS HAVING TO WORK WITH IDIOTS SUCH AS YOURSELF.
IF I RECALL CORRECTLY, SUCH IS THE SAME CASE FOR YOU. IT IS BECAUSE OF YOUR COOPERATION WITH CODA THAT YOU ARE ABLE TO GATHER AS MANY ANARCHY BERYLS AS YOU SO DESIRE WITHOUT THE NOTICE OF THE SUPPRESSION SQUAD*.

Scourge scowls at the mention.

Don't you DARE bring up those traitors! I swear, if that dirty blue cheater didn't trick me out of my Super Form...!
REGARDLESS, ORDERS ARE ORDERS. AND IF YOU ARE TO CONTINUE YOUR ALLIANCE WITH US, YOU WILL COMPLY.
...Tch.

A portal opens up, as both Scourge and the figure enters. Sally attempts to chase after them, but the portal closes up before she could even reach it.

...Just what is going on around here...?

---

Central Highway

X proceeds to point his buster at Nightmare Curtiss and charges it.

...I'm going to grant you one chance to explain yourself. What is the purpose behind your attack? And who even sent you to begin with?

---

*The Anti-Freedom Fighters of Moebius. They betrayed Scourge and worked with the Freedom Fighters in order to overthrow Scourge.

The group manages to narrowly avoid the Dark Thunder. As Mega Man deals with the Dark Sound Trumpy...

Luigi!
Don't-a worry, bro; I'm-a already on it!

Luigi takes out two Fire Flowers, giving one to Mario! They proceed to both go into their Fire forms. As Luigi throws a few Fireballs at Beck DS, Mario follows this up with a Scalding F.L.U.D.D.!

---

Wood Zone

As Gilgamesh obtains Shogun's Shogun Trident, Shogun Boomerang, and Shogun Staff, Missingno. follows the group into the portal.

---

...Meanwhile, in the depths of the Woods...

...
...Urgh... it... What the he-
You stop right there! You have no idea what kind of trouble you've gotten yourself into!

Sally Acorn
Leader of the Freedom Fighters

Sally of Universe StH-ARCHIE

...Well, well. If it isn't little miss Sally Acorn...
...It's certainly been a while since we've last met, Princess.

Scourge the Hedgehog
The Anti-Sonic

Sonic of Moebius, Universe StH-ARCHIE-PSGW

...Am I supposed to know who you are?
What...? How do you not-
...Oh, that's right... The Genesis Wave*. You don't remember a thing, now do you...?
Just what are you going on about...!?
Oh, nothing... But, if you REALLY don't remember who I am... Then I suppose a reminder is nece-

Suddenly, another figure emerges...

---

F.L.U.D.D. - (Water) Also known as the Flash Liquidizer Ultra Dousing Device. Created by E. Gadd, it is a multi-use water pack that Mario originally obtained when he is tasked to clean up all the paint splattered about Isle Delfino (see Super Mario Sunshine). It has a limited water supply that is automatically filled when standing in water sources, and has four different nozzles for four different functionalities:
Squirt - Allows for Mario to sprout water. The most basic nozzle, of which is used to clean up paint, as well as, in the Super Smash Bros. series since Brawl, pushing opponents back.
Hover - Grants Mario the ability to hover around via jets of pressurized water spraying towards the ground. This lasts for about 4 seconds.
Rocket - Sends Mario upwards into the air after a moment of charging. Cannot be used in the water.
Turbo - Blasts water backwards in order to allow for Mario to dash quickly forwards, even across the water. This consumes the most water in the tank.

Scalding F.L.U.D.D. - (Water/Flame) A variant of F.L.U.D.D.'s Squirt nozzle. Instead of pushing back foes, it instead sprays scalding water that damages opponents, and even has a chance to inflict a Burn. However, it has a shorter range than regular F.L.U.D.D. (The chances of the attack inflicting a Burn is greatly increased in Fire form, and even reverts the range to that of its normal variant, and can even be transferred to other nozzles; In return, however, it is the only variant that can be used by Fire Mario.)

---

*Reference: Archie's Sonic the Hedgehog comics. There has been three particular Genesis Waves during the Pre-Super Genesis Wave era (the third counted being the Super Genesis Wave itself, at the end of Worlds Collide), though I'm not entirely sure which one was the one that eliminated Scourge from Archie's history books.

gonna have to finish this tomorrow.

Take THIS!

X proceeds to strike both Karmachine AND Nightmare Curtiss with Nova Strike!

---

Sky High Zone

At long last, Sonic's group makes it to the end of Sky High Zone...

Alright, let's see what's going on around here...
...Huh?

Sonic then spots Beck DS(?) in the distance...

...Say, who's this guy?
I don't know... All scanners seem to indicate that he's a robot, but... He's not like any kind of robot I've ever seen before! (Not as far as I remember, anyways...)
Well, whoever he is, he seems to be the cause of that strange storm... And something tells me he isn't up to anything good.

---

...Meanwhile, a familiar figure seems to be stalking upon a certain blue robot hero...

(...The hell is HE doing here!?*)

---

Nova Strike - (RECAP) (Neutral/Impact) A powerful Giga Attack. The user charges at foes with a powerful, invincible dash attack with high mobility.

---

*I believe that I have stated before that the Justice Man and Mega Man of this roleplay are NOT of the same universe. ...Justice Man doesn't know this yet, however.

Drone just barely manages to escape from the slashes of the Shogun Blade.

...Ha! It'll take more than that to-

---

D̴I̴̸͘M̨E͢N̢͟S̢I͘O̵͜Ń̴ ̛̀Ù͘N̵̶K̷N̵O̸W̴N͘͢͝

...Sir... Why did you not send me in there with them? Wasn't that the original plan?
...Isn't it obvious? Without the presence of the DOS bots... The moment is no longer opportune. I would be wasting a rather valuable asset.
...But, that's just fine. Not all things go to plan... This wasn't the FIRST time a Reaper's choices led me to having to adapt, after all.
This simply means that we'll have to go to them instead.
Are you sure about this...? Considering how this attack played out...
Well, it was the original plan, after all. It would only make sense, wouldn't it?
Besides... It'll have the additional bonus of seeing how ROB reacts to what ELSE we have in store...

Coda heads off to another room, leaving the doctor all alone...

...
...That just settles it, doesn't it? You never chose us because we were obsolete. You chose us because we are all, in one way or another, connected to these heroes... You didn't avoid sending me in because I was valuable. You did it because THEY weren't there. Because HE wasn't there.
You don't care about ANY of us, in truth... You only care about being the villain. And you wanted to do so by messing with the minds of your opponents... That's ALSO why you even copied the abilities of warriors from worlds past*.
...That also means...
...My god... What have I done?

---

Wood Zone

Coda Drone lays motionless on the ground.

...Ah, crud.
Well, you know what they say.
GG no re.

Missingno. proceeds to take out Coda Trimmer with an all-out Sky Attack.

...Well, this all happened.

Missingno. then proceeds to dig into the bodies of both Coda Trimmer and Coda Drone, pulling out their IC Chips!

...I'm going to take these things with us. We might just be able to save them... Especially if scanning either of these could help us learn more about the Coda Corruption.
Besides... I can't shake the feeling that it may be important for me and the rest of us in Jazz's group to learn more about Trimmer's designation and origin.

...Well, with that, I think we're done here. We should probably get back to the others. But first...
Yes, Gilgamesh, you may help yourself to Shogun's arsenal if you so wish. (Aside from probably Shogun's sword, assuming if Mighty wants to keep it for himself.)

---

Central Highway

(Not on my watch...!)

X attacks with a charged Triad Thunder!

---

Sky Attack - (Wind) The strongest FLYING-type attack. Energy is stored in the first turn, then fired the next turn.
Triad Thunder - (Electric) Spawns three orbs around the user that surrounds the user in a triangular pattern, conducting electricity before firing three electrical blasts. (Charged: The user smashes their fist into the ground, releasing electric sparks along the ground and walls to deal immense damage to grounded foes, and even destroy obstacles.)

---

*In other words, he has the abilities of even characters from older roleplays. Including even WAY older roleplays.

The two robots are knocked back by the Hydro Pump, but not before Mighty was able to impale Coda Shogun!

Urk... Y-you... ...

Coda Shogun collapses as the other two robots stand sternly.

Why... You...!
Oh, don't go mourning him. Unlike you two, he was a rotten crook from the get-go.

The two robots proceed to launch Gyro Attacks at the two, only for each propeller to be immediately destroyed by Missingno.'s Helix Tendrils +!

Look at you. You've got your precious teammates, and yet, here you are, down a member with your backs against the metaphorical wall. You haven't learned a ed THING.
Sh-shut up! We... We were just expecting someone else to arrive, is all!
Oh, really now? And, tell me... this "doctor" of yours aside, what exactly would've CHANGED about this situation if they really WERE here?
...
...Just as I have thought.

Missingno. suddenly begins to glow...

...Any one of you can finish off propeller guy over there. Scissor-head over there is mine.

...Wait, considering who you were talking to before, wouldn't it make more sense if you were to-

(Look, I know that, alright? I just want to show off this move, and I'd be ed if it gets blocked by an immunity, or worse, trigger off an affinity.)

...Fair point, carry on.

---

Central Highway

X proceeds to release a charged Electric Spark!

---

Helix Tendrils - (RECAP) (Water/Empty) Summoned tendrils of the ancient eldritch Omastar known as "Lord Helix". If any of you get even as much as a sick thought from this I swear to Beta Arceus*-
(New Variant: + - Stronger, also has a slight chance to temporarily randomize opponent's controls when striking said opponent.)

Electric Spark - Fires off a small, electrical burst. If the spark hits a wall or an enemy, it splits in half and travels up and down the surface it contacted. Also has a chance to lower Defense**. (Charged: Releases a pair of spark columns from both sides of the user. This also guarantees a drop in defense if it hits.)

---

*Yes, the version of Arceus from the leaked Diamond and Pearl Beta sprites.
**A reference to how hitting Armored Armadillo with the attack would cause him to lose most of his armor.