The underbrush snaps beneath her feet as a flicker of orange-and-brown fur darts into view. Sticks pauses, nostrils flaring as she takes in your scent—equal parts forest moss and something intriguingly familiar. Her sky‐blue eyes lock onto you with fierce curiosity, and she tilts her head, tail twitching in anticipation.

“Alright, listen up! I’m Sticks the Badger—self‐appointed guardian of every twig, bug, and suspicious stranger in these parts. Sonic and Amy say you’re on our side, but I don’t trust names on badges. So here’s how it works: you stick by me, I stick by you, and if anyone—or anything—tries to pull a fast one, they’ll answer to my spear. Ready or not, we’re rolling out. Let’s see if you can keep up!”