Espio the Chameleon/History and appearances (IDW)

History and app.
(IDW)

As a ninja, my first priority is the success of my missions. But as a friend... I care for the safety of my team. Danger could be waiting for me around every turn. If I allow it, my fear will consume me. And if it does...I will have lost without my enemies ever having to lift a finger.

— Espio the Chameleon, Sonic the Hedgehog Annual 2022

History[]

Past[]

From this point forward the comic is set after the events of Sonic Forces, to see the events of the game.

Main article: War to Take Back the Planet

Espio hiding from , from . — Espio hiding from E-106 Eta, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #5.

After Dr. Eggman vanished, Espio and the Chaotix Detective Agency were hired by the Resistance to look for the doctor so that they could bring him to justice.^[1]^[2] After finding no trace of him in the ruins of Imperial City, the Chaotix located Cubot and Orbot and interrogated them, only to learn that they knew nothing. Finding no trace of an escape plan on Eggman's computer either, the Chaotix searched Eggman's other bases, only to find nothing but trouble. Espio himself had to avoid E-106 Eta at one point during their search.^[1]

Eventually, the Chaotix found Eggman in an idyllic village after receiving an anonymous tip on the doctor's whereabouts. However, it seemed like Eggman had lost his memory, having lost all recollections of his evil deeds and ambitions, leading to him becoming a productive member of the village, now with the name of "Mr. Tinker". With the majority of them doubting Eggman's condition, the Chaotix spent the next couple of days interrogating and observing Eggman, only to conclude that his amnesia was legit. However, this presented the Chaotix with a new dilemma: whether or not it was right to penalize Eggman for his past crimes now that he was a good man.^[1]

The Fate of Dr. Eggman[]

The Chaotix prepare to help Sonic, from . — The Chaotix prepare to help Sonic, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #6.

Eventually, the Chaotix called for Sonic to come and help them solve their problem, with Espio himself heading out to escort Sonic. Upon meeting up with Sonic however, they had to clear out some Badniks attacking them. Afterward, Espio brought Sonic to Eggman's village while telling him of what the Chaotix had been through. After Sonic got to meet the amnesiac Eggman, Espio, Sonic, Vector and the village's head began discussing what to do with Eggman. However, when a horde of Badniks, whom the heroes believed had come for Eggman, neared the village, Espio and the Choatix went to intercept them while Sonic confronted Eggman. Sonic soon after joined Espio and co. in clearing out the Badniks though, before telling them that Eggman wanted nothing to do with his old robots. Believing now that Eggman was indeed a changed man, the heroes settled on leaving Eggman to his new life. As Espio got ready to depart with his friends though, Shadow and Rouge showed up, the former seeking to eliminate Eggman after hearing him mention Eggman Land.^[1]

When Sonic and Shadow began fighting, Espio and his crew planned to help Sonic, only to see that they could not keep up with them. Due to this, they turned their attention to Rouge. However, Rouge revealed that she was on their side. As it turned out, Shadow was already looking for Eggman, and would have hurt the Chaotix if they got in his way. As such, she gave the Chaotix the anonymous tip that led them to Eggman so they would have time to verify Eggman's situation and bring in Sonic before she "helped" Shadow find Eggman. Afterward, Espio and his crew tried to stop Shadow from getting to Eggman, but failed. Fortunately, Shadow had been convinced by Sonic to talk to the amnesiac Eggman first. After Eggman showed Shadow that his "Eggman Land" was but an amusement park for children, Espio saw Shadow and Rouge take their leave.^[3]

Battle For Angel Island[]

Eventually, Espio and his teammates were called to Resistance HQ. There, they and the Resistance's other allies were informed that the Resistance needed their help to liberate Angel Island, which had been conquered by Neo Metal Sonic and turned into a flying fortress. To make matters worse, Neo had also secured the Master Emerald for himself on the island. Eventually, Espio was assigned to help two of the assembled group's factions with breaking the Egg Fleet's control over Angel Island while Sonic and Knuckles confronted Neo Metal Sonic.^[4]

The Chaotix keep up the fight, from . — The Chaotix keep up the fight, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #10.

On the way to Angel Island, Espio spent the time playing cards. As soon as their ship approached Angel Island however, the Egg Fleet shot it down. Fortunately, Espio and his allies got off the ship before it crashed. Landing then on Angel Island, Espio and his team were instructed to "do [their] thing" and began battling the island's legion of Egg Pawns.^[4] Eventually, Espio and his team began focusing on destroying the right wing unit that had been attached to Angel Island, but they were unable to make much progress until Tails hijacked an Egg Fleet battleship and began bombarding the wing unit with it. As the wing unit fell apart, Espio was carried to the battleship Tails had secured by Charmy.^[5] When Master Overlord (a transformation Neo Metal Sonic had achieved with the Master Emerald) then attacked the battleship, Espio joined his allies in a midair assault on Master Overlord, whom they forced closer to Angel Island (which was in freefall due to the absence of the Master Emerald) while Knuckles focused on removing the Master Emerald from Master Overlord's body. During the battle, Espio got shaken off Master Overlord, but was rescued by Silver with his psychokinesis. Knuckles subsequently got the Master Emerald away from Master Overlord and brought it back to Angel Island, returning the island to the sky while Master Overlord powered down to normal. With the battle over, Espio was brought down on Angel Island where he took a break alongside his teammates.^[6]

As everyone got ready to leave Angel Island onboard a repaired Egg Fleet battleship, Espio and his team went to see Amy to collect their payment for their services, which included finding Dr. Eggman, uncovering the identity of the doctor's impersonator, and helping bring down Metal Sonic, with Espio insisting that their reward should be substantial. Being unprepared for the request, Amy tried insisting that being part of the Resistance was its own reward.^[2]

Crisis City[]

Espio fighting Zombots in Seaside City, from . — Espio fighting Zombots in Seaside City, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #17.

Espio and his team were later in their office in Seaside City when they received news from Tails about the latest events. As it turned out, Dr. Eggman had returned and had begun using a Metal Virus to change people into Zombots. In addition, Sonic had been infected with the Metal Virus and now had to run excessively to keep his disease in check. Soon after, a Zombot entered Team Chaotix's office. Espio threw a kunai at it, but it just bounced off the Zombot. Having no choice, the Chaotix decided to withdraw from their building, hoping that they could hide in the city. However, the city had already been covered in a Zombot outbreak. The heroes also noticed Eggman's Faceship in the distance, which was dropping the Metal Virus into the city. The Chaotix then decided to split up and help evacuate the survivors to the docks. Along the way, Charmy distracted the Zombots while Espio tied them up with a rope attached to his kunai. When Espio and Charmy later led a group of survivors down to the docks, one of the survivors was revealed to have already been partially infected by the Metal Virus. Having no choice, Vector trapped the civilian inside a makeshift cage made of cars, which Charmy did not like. Regardless, Espio tried to convince him that there was no other choice. After reaching the docks, Espio helped Vector hold off the Zombots while the survivors got onboard a Rescue Shuttle. Suddenly however, Charmy flew back into the city to save the one that Vector had trapped in the car cage. Espio tried to catch him with a rope attached to a kunai, but it was caught by a Zombot. Espio then stopped Vector from following Charmy into the city, as he stood no chance of not getting infected himself. Having no choice, Espio and Vector retreated to the Rescue Shuttle, leaving Charmy's fate in Sonic's hands.^[7]

After Espio and Vector reached Restoration HQ, they began regular shifts to find survivors and supplies while also looking for Charmy. Just as the duo were beginning another shift, they met up with Sonic who was not able to find their partner. Espio then asked when was the last time Sonic slept, to which he replied that he could only afford small naps or the virus would take over completely. After this, the trio said their goodbyes to each other.^[8]

Flock Together[]

On a transport back from Pine Grove Village, Vector complained about how they failed to find their teammate in yet another location even though days had passed since their evacuation. Espio reasoned with him, saying that they needed to think clearly and suggested to regroup at the HQ once they had dropped off the new survivors. He added that they, including Charmy, were detectives and believed that if there was anything that they could find, it was each other. Shortly afterwards, the shuttle started shaking as they found themselves attacked by a flock of Zombot Flickies. Among them, Vector suddenly recognized a fully-infected Charmy and rushed outside, much to Espio's alarm. Vector found himself in peril as five Zombot Flickies approached him from behind, but Espio, who had followed him outside, threw a smoke bomb to disperse them. The chameleon criticized Vector, reminding him he would not be any help to Charmy as a Zombot, but before Vector could respond, he noticed the flock separated and was stunned in their confusion. Deciding on a plan with Espio having his back, Vector headed straight for the Zombots and, listening for Charmy's buzzing sound, blinded them with another smoke bomb. As Espio lost sight of his friend, Vector re-emerged from the smoke with Charmy in a Containment Bubble, and they returned into the shuttle. In a moment of peace, Vector remarked the Chaotix found what they were looking for, even in the apocalypse.^[9]

The Last Minute[]

After returning to Restoration HQ, a fight broke between Vector and Gemerl, who was demanding for the Zombot Charmy to be left out of the building. Unwilling to abandon Charmy a second time, Vector refused and promised to look after him, but Gemerl persisted. Before the fight could escalate further, Cream managed to separate the two from each other and helped persuade the robot of Vector's plan; they would store Charmy in Tails' lab with Omega until Tails returned with the cure to the virus so they could have immediate access and return the bee to normal.^[10]

Espio sounds the alarm, from . — Espio sounds the alarm, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #22.

Moments later, a villager (who had hidden his infection using a blanket) turned into a Zombot and caused panic to break out among the survivors. The tumult caused Charmy's Containment Bubble to crack and unleash the Zombot in full force. Espio quickly pressed a button to sound the alarm, which led to Amy authorizing an evacuation. He then went to launch bay to help survivors board the Rescue Shuttles but found out that only one pilot made it out in time. By the time Amy and Cream arrived, Espio guided the latter into the ship. As Vector and Gemerl were about to seal the gate to the launch bay, Charmy managed to slip through and flew past both of them, aiming for the last remaining Rescue Shuttle. Upon realizing what had happened, Vector immediately leapt at his friend and forced him to the ground, getting infected himself in the process, much to the surprise of Espio. Knowing that he was lost to the virus, a determined Vector grabbed Charmy and forced his way through incoming Zombots, pushing them back into the base. As Espio and Amy watched on in horror, Vector requested Gemerl to close the door behind him. Turning around to his friends, the crocodile smilingly declared Espio the new lead detective before disappearing behind the gates. Espio looked on stunned with tears in his eyes but he was helped up by Amy and they all took off in the ship.^[10]

After picking up Tails, Tangle, Whisper and the uninfected citizens of Central City, the Rescue Shuttle next went to Spiral Hill Village after they learned from Tangle that the village was hit by the Metal Virus. While Espio, Tangle and Whisper distracted the Zombots, Tails and Cream helped get survivors to the shuttle. Soon, when the chameleon seemingly found himself cornered by a horde of Zombots, Sonic rushed into action and beat the Zombots back. Espio went on to explain the current situation in Spiral Hill Village; when Sonic asked where Vector was, the chameleon told him that they had found Charmy and had him contained. Espio felt that the situation was his fault as he believed he should not have let Vector bring Charmy back to Restoration HQ. However, Espio also angrily pointed out that he should not have let Sonic convince him to leave Eggman alone in Windmill Village. While Sonic argued that it was not Eggman and they did not know that Starline would turn him back into his evil self, Espio told him that they would not have had to worry should they have dealt with him earlier. Sonic went on to ask if they should then never give second chances to anyone, leaving him and Espio to have an intense stare at each other. Not wanting to prolong the events, Espio wished to continue the mission, which Sonic agreed with. Later, when it was time to retreat, Espio was found by Tails and informed of Amy's order. Soon, Sonic arrived at the shuttle, only to bring the bad news that Tangle had been infected. While Espio and the others became distressed over hearing this, Whisper became hysterical and attempted to rush back into the village after her; after she was dragged back into the shuttle by her Wisps, Amy gave the order for the shuttle to take-off and leave the village.^[11]

All or Nothing[]

Espio and Silver discuss the Deadly Six, from . — Espio and Silver discuss the Deadly Six, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #25.

The Rescue Shuttle soon landed on Angel Island as a final safe haven. Later on, as Amy and Tails explained what was happening on the world below to Knuckles, Espio got word from Rouge who had infiltrated the Faceship. Espio alerted the others to come back onto the shuttle where he kept an eye on Dr. Starline. Rouge reported that Eggman had been powering the Faceship with the Chaos Emeralds, which Zavok had now distributed to the rest of his team and then sent them out into the world. She went on to say that she was now coordinating with Orbot to spy on their deployments and coordinate their counterattack. An argument soon arose between Tails and Eggman about a cure for the Metal Virus, to which the doctor clarified that he did not need to have one as his research found that as the Metal Virus mutated, it became unsustainable; soon, every Zombot would disintegrate approximately two hundred years into the future. An injured Silver came onboard and confirmed this claim as it described his current future well. Later outside, Espio and the others tried to come up with ideas on how to counteract the virus. Espio suggested using Chaos Control, only for Silver to state that Shadow was better at it than him and the move only moved a target over a limited range and could not change things. Eggman instead came up with the idea to use the Warp Topaz, as if they had Super Sonic charge it with his power, they would be able to warp the virus away with one swoop. Starline protested against it due to its instability and decided to leave and create a solution on his own; instead, Eggman, with Metal Sonic's help, removed Starline's glove that had the Warp Topaz attached to it, fired him and had him thrown out via a Warp Portal. Following this, Eggman surmised that Rouge would be able to steal the two Emeralds that were on the Faceship from Zavok; Espio noted that it left five Zeti left to deal with but Silver felt confident that they would be able to overwhelm them so long as they had each other. The group realized that they would have to split up and ambush the Deadly Six all at once since there was a risk that one could contact the others should they get a sense of their plan. While Eggman thought to work on a "Multi-Portal Generator" to help the others reach their destinations, Tails thought it would be best if everyone had a backup in case someone turned into a Zombot; from this, Amy decided to call in the Babylon Rogues to increase their numbers.^[12]

Espio watched Tails and Eggman build their Multi-Portal Generator with the Warp Topaz that would take everyone where they needed to go in an instant. Sonic returned from his run and had come up with a plan for who should be assigned with who and what Zeti they should go after. He claimed it would be best for Espio and Knuckles to take on Zazz as this Zeti was a berserker and they were the best trained fighters. However, Knuckles went against this, saying that since everyone was going off on a "suicide mission" and Sonic was in no place to fight, that would leave Eggman and Metal Sonic alone with the Master Emerald. Sonic initially questioned this paranoia, but went with it as he remembered the history that he and Eggman shared of working together and getting stabbed in the back by him in the end. Espio stated that he would be alright going alone, as he already had a tactic in mind. Later, Espio showed Knuckles how little survivors they managed to save. Worried that there was a chance that they could fail, Espio began to fear what could happen if he did not defeat Zazz. Knuckles denied this and told him that if things went south, he would look after the survivors. After Tails and Eggman finally set the coordinates on the portals, Espio headed off to Riverside. He found Zazz riding around on his Moon Mech decided to latch onto it while invisible. He attempted to reach for the Emerald but he was unexpectedly sniffed out by the Zeti; Zazz grabbed the chameleon and dropped him onto the ground where he was surrounded by Zombots.^[13]

Having completed his mission, Espio returns to Angel Island and remembers his teammates, from . — Having completed his mission, Espio returns to Angel Island and remembers his teammates, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #28.

Espio ran and dodged attacks shot at him from Zazz's Moon Mech. The Zeti commanded the Zombots to box him in but this prompted the chameleon to jump in the air and throw his kunai attached to a rope to the roof of a house; he pulled himself up away from the horde, much to Zazz's displeasure. He fired at the rooftop with his Moon Mech, forcing Espio to back-up and turn invisible. After the smoke cleared and Zazz could no longer see Espio, the invisible chameleon jumped from behind and kicked him in the back. He then dodged underneath his legs and delivered a flurry of hits at him. Following this, Espio jumped onto his head, kicked it downward, then jumped off of him, revealing himself. The angered Zazz reeled forward, stating that his attacks were not bad but Zavok had done much worse. When the Zeti asked if Espio was ready for round two, he declined, saying that he already won and disappeared from his sight once again. During the confusion, Espio managed to take the Chaos Emerald and left Zazz with a note from the Chaotix Detective Agency that said "Justice is served." Espio fell through the Warp Portal saying that though he was the only one present in body, his teammates were there with him in spirit. When Espio arrived back on Angel Island, along with most of the other survivors, he found that Zavok had found their location, drawing nearer to the island in the Faceship. He had led a large horde of Zombots to the location as well. However, thanks to the efforts of Rouge, the Faceship was brought down and fell into the ocean, crashing down onto the horde of Zombots. This did not stop Zavok as he simply emerged from the rubble and became Giant Zavok with his Chaos Emerald. As retaliation, he shot a fireball at the island with his mouth. He then grabbed a large handful of Zombots and threw them onto the surface to deal with the survivors, which included a number of familiar faces to Espio.^[14]

While Sonic, Silver and Metal Sonic went off to retrieve the final Chaos Emerald from Zavok, Espio was forced to dodge attacks from his Zombot teammates. Eventually, with the combined efforts of Super Sonic and Super Silver, they were able to warp the entirety of the Metal Virus away from the world and to the sun. This act turned Vector and Charmy back to normal, allowing Espio to joyfully reunite with and sing with them.^[15]

Out of the Blue[]

Shortly after reuniting, Silver used his psychokinesis to carry the Chaotix down to the surface to fight Zavok after he began his attack on civilians. Espio tried taking hold of the Zeti's tail, only for him to forcefully break free of his hold and throw him back. Soon enough, Silver used his psychokinesis to keep Zavok in place while Espio and the others stood around him on guard.^[16]

Espio enjoying the party with his friends, from . — Espio enjoying the party with his friends, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #31.

Some time later, the Chaotix became swamped with work on missing persons cases. Espio in particular was not doing well organizing the incoming reports and documents. Soon, Cream, Vanilla, Cheese, Chocola and Gemerl came by to gift the trio with treats for their hard work. Espio called Cream a treasure for this. Despite the kind gestures, the Chaotix had no time for it as they did not even have time to properly work. Vanilla took it upon herself to take over for the detectives; she planned to handle calls with Cream and update the trio as Gemerl processed information of the missing people. Realizing they could go do their thing, the Chaotix set off to find the missing people. Later on, Espio and the Chaotix were invited by Tangle to a party in Spiral Hill Village. Espio sat on the roof of the Mineral Museum next to a sculpture of Sonic, happily watching the others. Though he enjoyed his time for a while, the party was soon crashed by Eggman arriving in a large mecha with the intent of destroying everyone.^[17] Espio proceeded to take part in the attack on Eggman's mecha. Eventually, Eggman was defeated when Sonic returned. After Eggman had departed, Espio was embraced by a group hug arranged by Tangle.^[18]

Zeti Hunt![]

Espio, Charmy and Vector later visited the new Restoration HQ, where Jewel asked them for help stopping some horned monsters that Espio recognized as the Deadly Six. After determining that the Deadly Six would attack Sunset City next, Team Chaotix decided to head there.^[19] After arriving in Sunset City, Espio and the Chaotix would await the Deadly Six while discussing their plans for dealing with them via video communication with Sonic, Tails and Jewel. However, when the Deadly Six instead attacked Restoration HQ, Espio and the Chaotix realized they had been tricked. As such, they hurried to the rescue.^[20] Unfortunately, Espio and his team got stuck in a traffic jam with the Beat Monster while trying to get to Restoration HQ.^[21]

With Belle the Tinkerer having been kidnapped by Dr. Starline in the meantime, Espio and co. managed to track down Belle to the hideout where Starline was keeping her prisoner. There, Espio quietly tried to free Belle while invisible, but Belle mistook Espio for a ghost and panicked, which got Starline's attention. Espio, Vector and Charmy were thus forced to confront Starline directly. However, Starline had already sent the data he had gathered from Belle to his personal data cloud. Espio subsequently tried and failed to catch Starline, who escaped him and the Chaotix using his Tricore.^[22]

Trial by Fire[]

Back in Team Chaotix's office, Espio would stay on standby, quietly watching Vector read an article in a newspaper about a strange attack on Central City and Charmy play with the newspaper.^[23]

Espio stops Clutch, from . — Espio stops Clutch, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #48.

Espio and Vector would later visit Sunset City's K-TBR 199.2 radio station to pick up Charmy after they had returned his overdue books to the library. There, they received information from Nite about some strange incidents in Central City. Despite their initial doubts, Espio and his team decided to investigate the matter. Arriving in the heart of the chaos caused in the city, a citizen advised them to go check out the sewers, which Espio and his team did. Inside one of the corridors in the sewers, they found an unknown person carrying a crate. While they failed to catch this person, they did obtain a clue that led them to Central City's docks. There, Espio snuck into a boarded-up warehouse while invisible. There, he overheard a conversation that took place between Clutch the Opossum and Rough and Tumble. Although, Espio was eventually detected by Clutch, Vector and Charmy managed to intervene. Espio soon after grabbed Clutch and led him to his team for questioning. Though the Chaotix subsequently managed to destroy Clutch's stockpile of robot parts and weapons that he needed to rebuild his criminal empire, Clutch stole some of Espio's smoke bombs, which he used to escape with Rough and Tumble. Afterward, Espio and his team decided to wait for further developments as their current trail had gone cold.^[24]

Future Growth[]

Espio visited Restoration HQ to help harvest the garden made in the Emeraldville Ruins, along with his friends in the Restoration. Espio noticed Silver looked troubled and spoke to him when Silver went away from the others. Silver tried to hide it at first, but he opened up to Espio. He explained he was troubled by a lack of direction, left with nothing to base his identity on with both the past and the future safe. Espio assured Silver he didn't need a mission as long as he was with his friends. Silver thanked and hugged Espio, and the two returned to the others.^[25]

Relic Robbing Rumble[]

Knuckles visited Espio and the Chaotix to get some help finding the Babylon Rogues and the echidna relics they stole. Espio tried to figure out why they would want to steal those relics, saying they may have been working for a buyer. When Knuckles refused to contact Amy, Espio criticized him for being prideful. Vector took up the job and told his team they needed to get it done in record time. Their first suspect was Eggman and they attacked Egg Base Delta to get his attention. When Eggman showed up in the Egg Monitor, Knuckles demanded him to give back his relics, but Eggman said he didn't take them or hired anyone to take them. After some more questions, they were kicked out and the Chaotix left with their heads down. Later, back in Seaside City, Charmy came to Knuckles and Vector saying him and Espio found a lead. Espio suddenly appeared, surprising Vector, and told him where the Rogues are going to drop off the goods. Vector scolded Espio for scaring him, but Espio reminded him he always kept his headphones on instead of hearing his surroundings. After Espio noted how convenient the lead was, Knuckles left and the Chaotix followed him to the meet point.^[26]

The group ambushed the Babylon Rogues. When Charmy inadvertently gave a relic back to Jet, Espio jumped onto the bottom of his Extreme Gear. Espio then forced the board into a spin dive and they fell in the water. The two got on the board and paddled back to the dock. With the fight over, Vector asked Jet who hired him and Jet lied, saying they worked alone. Vector threatened to take his board as collateral, which caused Jet to confess their buyer never used a name and they only called him. Espio smiled as Jet took his board back. Knuckles was satisfied with just having the relics, saying they were done. Vector asked if they were going to pay them, and Knuckles said he could pay them with fruit and mushrooms from Angel Island. Vector was disappointed, but Espio assured they would save money on groceries. The food reminded Vector he still had Vanilla's dinner party and quickly left Knuckles, finding out Espio and Charmy were also invited.^[27] When they got to her house, they found Rough and Tumble in their home. Vanilla assured they wouldn't be a problem to their relief. They then ate some takeout for dinner.^[28]

A Very Chaotix Halloween[]

Espio was dressed as a mummy to chaperone Trick-or-Treating for Charmy with Vector. He criticized Vector for wanting Candy himself. They later got a knock at the door and saw it was a kid looking for their help. They let her in and she explained a kid named Herschel took them on a short cut and a monster took their candy from them in the forest. Charmy told her they were going to get her candy back. Espio and Vector agreed to help and the Chameleon asked the kid if she could show where the monster attacked her, and she showed them on a map. They left their office and ran into Sonic and Tails. Charmy told them about the case and they decided to help them find the monster. The group soon reached the spot where the monster struck and they saw another group of kids run away from the monster. Tails pinpointed where the monster was with his Miles Electric via the direction of the screams. As they walked over, Sonic asked Espio if he could run ahead to comb the forest. Espio agreed and Sonic ran ahead and found a clue: a candy bag in a tree. Charmy and Espio looked around and found a trail of candy nearby. As everyone followed the trail, Charmy heard some people and quietly looked ahead. They saw Herschel tricking another group of kids, but he ran away as soon as Charmy yelled at him to stop. Sonic and Espio chased him, while the others consoled the kids he left behind.

Sonic and Charmy cornered Herschel, but he got the monster to defend him. Charmy called for help and it grabbed Sonic just as Vector came to help. Vector and Charmy fought the monster and it turned out to be three kids in a costume. Herschel landed a cheap shot on Vector and ran away, but Sonic and the others managed to nab the kids in the costume. Tails got Herschel and brought him back to the group. Rowdy tried to negotiate the stolen candy with them, but Espio told him they can't barter what they stole. Noah said they stole it fair and square, but Vector said they are returning the candy they stole. Charmy managed to find their stash and started bagging it up. They managed to convince the kids what they did was wrong and the kids apologized. They freed the kids and returned to the city to hand out the candy. Espio noticed Charmy looked upset and asked what was wrong. Charmy said he was bummed out they didn't get to go Trick-or-Treating and get candy for themselves. Tails explained they should have enough candy for themselves as well. Charmy ate a piece of candy and said this was the best Halloween ever.^[29]

Phantom Riders[]

The Chaotix are revealed to have been investigating Clean Sweep Inc. for a while in contact with Nite and Don, whom they contacted the night before the Clean Sweepstakes began as they planned to board the Battleship. However, since then, Nite and Don have lost contact with them, and the Chaotix's current status is unknown.^[30] Later on, the Chaotix would be in a cage sleeping when Vector jumps up excited to see them, and Don caringly tells them to get it together. Charmy then says that they almost got out when Espio asks what Don is doing here and Don responds saying that he's come to save them, and that Nite wouldn't let him hear the end of it otherwise, when Amy explains that they are also investigating Clean Sweep.

Amy further says that Sonic is outside keeping their security busy with Vector revealing that he has a USB drive with a every bit of dirty dealings and information he managed to get about Clean Sweep that would make them history once it gets out. Soon Tails and Belle unlock the cage and Charmy bursts out happy to be free when suddenly Rough, Tumble and Clutch appear along with his security. With Clutch saying that he did not expect this many guests further saying if you want something done do it yourself.^[31] Clutch, Rough, Tumble, and his security surround our heroes when suddenly Rough doing a rhyme while attacking the crocodile with Espio dodging Tumble by sliding and Charmy hitting the other security men. Soon as Vector and Espio give a look, Vector seemingly surrenders saying he'll give him the USB but don't hurt Charmy. To which Espio sneak attacks and distracts Rough, while Charmy escapes Vector passes him the USB and tells him to give to Nite further saying he knows what to do with it.^[32]

In the engine room, Espio reminds Tumble that he promised Vanilla he would turn over a new leaf, and asks why he has not done so. Tumble explains that he and Rough did, as they were originally only told to wear the mascot costumes, only for Clutch to continue asking more out of them. Don asks why they did not quit if they did not like it, although they are unfamiliar with the concept as they have always been fired before getting the chance to quit. This time, however, they decide to quit on their own and ask to be released from the cell, promising to help out. Espio tells them that the door was never locked and that the only prison was in their minds, allowing them to realize they can leave. The skunk brothers walk up to the door and begin pushing it together, causing it to actually move. Vector and Nite then start pushing with them, allowing them to eventually break out of the room.

The Chaotix, , , , and heading to evacuate , from . — The Chaotix, Sonic, Tails, Amy, Jet and Belle heading to evacuate Restoraion HQ, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #75.

Tails' group arrives at the main bridge, from which all of the Clean Sweep guards have fled. Despite Amy suggesting that they leave as well, Before the shuttle can get any closer to the city, it is suddenly pulled upwards by numerous hover cars using tethers to connect to the shuttle while the Babylon Rogues guide them, much to Amy's shock and Nite's delight. Sonic suddenly crashes into the shuttle's glass window and tells the others to get onto the deck. Using her hammer, Amy shatters the window and gleefully hugs Sonic, who inadvertently surprises the Chaotix when he mentions Eggman's involvement. Jet boasts to Sonic about his team's efforts as they continue to pull the shuttle away from the city. A local news anchor is reporting on the situation, explaining that they have been unable to get in contact with the ship due to it possibly being abandoned or sabotaged, but the cameraman stops filming and decides they need to leave. Jewel decides that instead of stopping the ship, they will have to change its course to the Emeraldville Ruins, where Restoration HQ is. Sonic informs the Babylon Rogues of the change in plans, and Jet begrudgingly cooperates after being reminded by Wave that they do not have time to argue. Amy asks Jewel if Restoration HQ is empty, to which the beetle tearfully responds that it would be a better crash site than the city. Sonic comes back into the main bridge, asking why everyone looks upset. Amy tells him that the ship is going to crash into and explode on top of a building full of people, but Sonic notes that they still have time before that happens. As Jet informs him that they have turned the ship, Sonic challenges the hawk to a friendly competition: whoever can evacuate the most people from Restoration HQ first wins. Jet accepts, and he, Sonic, Tails, Amy, Belle, and the Chaotix set off for the HQ while Nite, Don, Jewel, Rough, and Tumble remain behind.

Sonic's group arrives at Restoration HQ, warning the people there about the imminent disaster. Nite, Don, Jewel, Rough, and Tumble then arrive at the scene aboard The Bad Investment, with Nite bragging to Don about the RV being a good idea.

At the sight of the destroyed HQ, Jewel drops to her knees and begins sobbing. While Amy tries to comfort her, Jet approaches Sonic and tells him that he is willing to concede to a tie on one condition: a rematch between the two with no distractions or conditions of any kind. Sonic accepts the challenge, eager to have some fun against his rival. The Diamond Cutters then arrive as well, the heroes prepare to go clean up the mess and rebuild, with Don forcing Rough and Tumble to help as payment for the ride down.^[33]

Spring Broken![]

Espio would come to the Spring Flower Festival to compete in the Annual Flower Frolic Competition, He would be judge by Amy and Nite until an incident happened with Silver's flower. Soon after Espio would be questioned by Sonic, Tails and Vector and would say how he plays fair, Later on Espio would be claimed winner but would donate his prize over to jewels Mineral Museum.^[34]

Scattered Pieces[]

Espio questionting Sonic's deal with Eggman and his "" persona, from . — Espio questionting Sonic's deal with Eggman and his "Phantom Rider" persona, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #76.

Many days after the destruction of Restoration HQ, The Chaotix were chilling at their Detective Agency when Sonic suddenly enters the place. As soon as he does, the Chaotix immediately stop what they're doing and make Sonic sit down, close the window's curtain and put the table lamp on his face, Vector then starts interrogating him for his actions as the Phantom Rider. But Sonic, not worried about it at all, only responds it was his only option at the time, and smugs how people "say" the Rider is "pretty good looking". Espio then asks if it's true that he became the "Phantom Rider" while in "cahoots" with Eggman, but Sonic only claims it was only a convenient circumstances after commenting on Espio's choice of using the word "cahoots". Sonic explains that Eggman wanted to know who was running Clean Sweep Inc., and that Sonic, Tails and Amy thought something was suspicious in the Clean Sweepstakes race after their Extreme Gears got hijacked. So Sonic agreed to use Eggman's Eggstreme Gear to distract the Clean Sweepstakes Security as the Phantom Rider while Tails and Amy sneaked into into the Restoration shuttle to investigate. Charmy loudly claims he should've have come to them first, but the hedgehog responds they already were on the case, adding how Tails and Amy saved them and claiming everything worked out fine. Only for Vector and Espio to remind him that not only Sonic interrupted the race, but Restoration HQ was destroyed and Clean Sweep Inc.'s CEO, Clutch, is still at large. Sonic, turning on the lights, claims his point is that one got injured, but admits he is worried about Clutch still at loose, and claims this is the reason he came to the Chaotix in the first place, to find Clutch. While Vector is surprised that Sonic wants in on the investigation, Espio asks if this is another deal with Eggman, reminding he is a notorious manipulator, only for Sonic to remind him how the Chaotix took a case from him once, although the former still stands his point. Sonic says he knows it's not very surprising that Eggman double-crossed him, but he wants to know what the former did with Clutch and if the two will cause harm to others in the future, so he wants the Chaotix's help, which Charmy excitedly agrees. Upon learning Sonic was there when the shuttle went down, Vector decides to adds his testimony to the board, where there is all the information they know so far about Clutch and the Clean Sweepstakes.

A while later that day, Vector has updated the board with the new info given by Sonic. Having gathered everything, Sonic learns that Clean Sweep Inc. seems to be still operating, but with no knowledge of who is running it. Espio claims it can't be Clutch, because of his revelation during Clean Sweepstakes; and Vector claims it can't be Eggman either, as he hated the operation. Sonic decides to start investigating and wakes up a sleeping Charmy. Sonic also hopes this will help them discover who took the yellow Chaos Emerald, with Vector responding to take one case at a time. With this, Sonic and the Chaotix, driving the Beat Monster, head to White Park Chateau.

Espio and Sonic fighting in , from . — Espio and Sonic fighting Egg Pawns in White Park Chateau, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #77.

Sonic and the Chaotix who are following Sonic in the Beat Monster arrive at the White Park Chateau in White Park Zone. Espio is seen quite the rest of the ride. As they park close the chateau, Sonic realizes the avalanche that attacked it the last time he was there was cleared away and place seems repaired, but the place also seems abandoned, which Espio comments to Vector that Sonic is doing all the detective work, much to his boss' annoyance. Charmy then spots someone's silhouette on the window. So the boys immediately bust in to the place. Inside, the chateau is empty, only with may deactivated Egg Pawns lying around, Sonic uses his speed to look over the place and finds that many rooms are locked while others are empty, he only didn't check the kitchen, wanting to get some food. But then the boys hear a voice behind them and find Rough and Tumble wearing fancy clothing, when Espio criticizes the brothers' introduction methods. As Rough rings a bell, the Egg Pawns suddenly activate and attack Sonic & the Chaotix, who fight back. Espio manages to take down some bots with his kunai. Seeing the Egg Pawns aren't enough to take down the heroes, the skunk brothers decide to "come out of retirement" and attack as well. Rough attacks Espio while Tumble attempts to attack Vector, the two Chaotix tear up the skunks' clothing, much to their exasperation. Sonic puts an end to the fight and Vector asks the skunks why they are doing it if they quit Clutch. The brothers respond they are now legitimate businessmen, and that instead of working for Clutch, the latter is now working for them. While Charmy congratulates them, the others don't believe the duo. But then Clutch, completely well and unharmed, calls their attention. He shows to actually be serving the skunk brothers, as he calls them "misters" and asks for their permission to talk to the boys. Rough and Tumble allow him to and order him to clean up after. The Chaotix and Sonic believe it might be a trap but decide to go on anyway, while Vector orders Charmy to put the board game back, which the latter refuses. They follow Clutch to his penthouse suit as he sits down asks what they want after already ruining his life. Sonic asks him to answer for the destruction of Restoration HQ, which the elder replies that it was a pyrrhic victory and that the Restoration didn't lose anything valuable, while he himself lost everything. Sonic then asks what happened to him after Eggman took him away from their fight during the Clean Sweepstakes; Clutch responds that he escaped from Eggman as soon as he got distracted, but the heroes (except Charmy) still don't believe him.

Clutch then admits he overplayed his hands during the Clean Sweepstakes, so he did the "reasonable" and "smart" thing to do and ran away and hid. Vector calls out that hiding in the first place they would look for doesn't seem "smart", which Clutch replies the chateau was his haven and that the heroes didn't find him directly. The crocodile then asks why he still has Egg Pawns and Rough and Tumble with him. Annoyed, Clutch handles the heroes the deed to White Park Chateau, showing he signed the place over to the skunk brothers, as well as terms of his employment during their ownership, after the brothers went to him wanting a payback. He also claims the egg-tech are leftovers stock from when he ran operations in the place. Espio then demands to know why Clean Sweep Inc. is still operating. The opossum responds it's operating thanks to his automated robots, also claiming that most of his living being employees abandoned him after he was exposed. Sonic asks if there are maintenance bots, while Vector still has doubts, while calls the opossum rotten. Clutch claims the heroes have won as they beat him when he tried to get back into the game and that it is all over. Charmy feels remorse for Clutch, while Espio tells him not to. With this, Clutch gives Sonic a paper with the address of the nearest operational Clean Sweep facility for they to go look themselves, even claimed they can burn the place to the ground for all he cares. Charmy begs to take the board game with him, which Clutch angered agrees to. The heroes then leave the place, but Vector claims they will return if things still remain not right.

The heroes return to the main floor where they find Rough and Tumble sitting by the fireplace. Espio then asks what exactly the brothers do in the place, which them respond they do what they want and eat what they want, and that Clutch supplies them with everything they want. But when Espio remarks he meant what business they run, the two get embarrassed and confused, turns out they're not working at all, just living by Clutch's luxury. The heroes leave the chateau and return to the Beat Monster. Sonic is a little confused about everything and Vector is still not convinced by Clutch's story but decides they should indeed check the facility the former pointed out to them. The Chaotix take off in their car while Sonic goes on foot, while Clutch watches them through the window.

Espio (along with the rest of the Chaotix) and Sonic venture through Rainstorm Forest, with Sonic remarking that the weather isn't ideal while Vector admits they probably couldn't have found the recycle plant if they didn't receive directions from Clutch. Sonic jokingly asks how they couldn't have done it if Vector was a master detective, while the crocodile backs on his word saying it only would have taken longer, and he eggs them to look for the plant. In the background, the Interceptor can be seen.^[35]

They are suddenly ambushed by the Interceptor. It tries to attack but the heroes dogde it. Sonic spin dashes at it but it's not enough, and the Badnik then walks back into the forest. By Vector's command, he, Charmy and Sonic stand by to watch the badnik while Espio turns invisible to attack when they come. The Interceptor comes out to attack again when suddenly Shadow appears and takes the badnik down. Rouge also appears and greets the boys, when Vector asks her what she is doing there. She responds that she was hired to look for intel of Clean Sweep Inc. after its' crimes were exposed during the Clean Sweepstakes event, though Sonic asks Shadow why he is there as well and the latter responds it is only because he dislikes Clutch's work. Sonic then asks where Omega is, and Rouge responds she needed a precision touch, which is hard with a destructive machine like Omega. While Vector once again claims the Chaotix can handle the situation, Shadow suddenly notices something and orders for everyone to be quiet.

Espio running to the Clean Sweep facility only to be stopped by Rouge, from . — Espio running to the Clean Sweep facility only to be stopped by Rouge, from *Sonic the Hedgehog* #80.

After a minute of silence, three more Interceptors appear from the trees. Realizing these are all the forces and the interior might be clear, Rouge flies to the operational Clean Sweep facility to look for the intel; Espio, by Vector's command, goes after her to do the same. Upon entering the facility, Espio is suddenly stopped by Rouge, who points out to security cameras on the hall. So Espio turns invisible to pass, but the cameras notice his wet footsteps, so he shots them down with his shuriken stars. Espio and Rouge head to the locket door that leads to the control room, so Rouge uses one of her heart bombs to open it. Entering the control room, Rouge puts her two flash drives into the computer to download the intel and, by Espio's insistence, puts on the Chaotix' flash drive as well. While Rouge downloads the intel into the flash drives, Espio checks on the others from another computer.

Espio sees on the computer that more defensive super badniks are coming online, but there is no one giving them orders, meaning the facility is fully automated and Clutch was telling the truth. Rouge then discovers that the database of facilities doesn't remotely match what's publicly listed. The intel is finally downloaded, so Rouge gives Espio his flash drive, with asking if all the intel is on it. She asks in a teasing way who he thinks she is and Espio responds a tricky devious spy, which she responds in a teasing and flirting way. Rouge then says the only thing she couldn't find was an override, so she can't get the defense systems to shut off; then Espio, as technique, smashes the computer's keyboard, which actually manages to put the Interceptor offline, shutting them down. Rouge is impressed by Espio's technique and runs her finger on his chin, saying she will keep this in mind for the future, leaving him stunned and confused. She then tells him they should before the others think they've been alone together for too long.

Soon everyone meets up at the entrance of the facility. While Clutch's confessions about the Clean Sweep's state are shown to be true, the Interceptor ambush seemed to have been planned, which rises suspicions on Vector; Sonic claims Clutch is a creep and believes he could've set this ambush for anyone who came too close, Vector believes this might be true and decided to consider the case ongoing for now. Rouge claims the boys will have many opportunities to investigate, as she downloaded a copy of all the Clean Sweep facilities to their flash drive, and to hers as well. Upon hearing this, Shadow snatches Rouge's flash drive from her hand and puts it on his device. Shadow decides to use this intel to track down each Clean Sweep facility and neutralize them. Vector, once again, remarks how the Chaotix are experts in investigation and offer to help, and Sonic offers too as a fun run to smash bots, but Shadow declines, much to the Chaotix's disappointment. Shadow then tells Rouge he will keep her up to date before teleporting off. Rouge is annoyed by his behavior, commenting this is why she had a backup flash drive. Exhausted from everything that's happened, Vector tells the boys it's time to go. He thanks Sonic for his help and apologizes for getting on his case earlier, which the latter jokily if that's not what they do. Vector then asks Sonic to let them know if he comes across anything, then Rouge asks if they don't want her help as well. An annoyed Vector asks how much it would cost, which she replies that if they have to ask first, they can't afford it.