Tobias: Meeting the Creator
The bustling streets of Salibad were a stark contrast to the quiet familiarity of Evergrand Island. The urban jungle buzzed with life as Tobias navigated the winding alleys and towering skyscrapers. The scent of spices and the sound of street vendors shouting their wares filled the air, but Tobias’s focus was on the package tucked securely in his arms.
“This is it,” Tobias muttered, glancing at the address Virtuoso had provided. The location was discreet, tucked into a quieter corner of the city—a starkly unassuming building compared to the vibrant chaos surrounding it. He double-checked the instructions and stepped inside.
---
A Surprising Introduction
The interior of the building was simple but sleek, with clean lines and muted colors that contrasted with the energy outside. Tobias approached the reception desk, where a calm, holographic receptionist greeted him.
“State your business,” the hologram said in a neutral tone.
“I’m here to deliver this package,” Tobias replied, holding it up. “It’s for... Danny?”
The hologram’s expression shifted slightly, almost imperceptibly. “Proceed to the elevator. He is expecting you.”
Tobias nodded and stepped into the elevator as directed. The ride was smooth and silent, though his tail flicked anxiously as the numbers ticked upward. When the doors opened, he found himself in a spacious, well-lit office.
And there, standing behind a large desk cluttered with sketches and notes, was a familiar figure. Danny—the Danny—looked up from his work, his warm smile immediately putting Tobias at ease. His appearance was casual, wearing a button-up shirt rolled at the sleeves and glasses perched on his nose.
“Tobias Rowe,” Danny said, his voice cheerful. “You made it.”
Tobias froze, his ears perking up. “You’re... Danny? Like, the Danny who made Sprunki Babies?”
Danny chuckled, stepping around the desk to greet him. “Guilty as charged. And you’re holding something very important. May I?”
---
The Package Delivered
Tobias hesitated for a moment, then handed over the package. Danny set it on his desk and opened it carefully, revealing the now-disarmed GPS bomb. His expression darkened as he examined the device.
“I thought so,” Danny muttered, his tone grim. “Virtuoso defused it, didn’t she?”
Tobias nodded. “She said it was meant to target the Statue of Virt. Why would someone do that?”
Danny sighed, placing the bomb back in its container. “Because the Statue of Virt represents more than just a monument. It’s a symbol of hope and resilience for the Dolmen and the people of Salibad. Destroying it would send a message of chaos and fear.”
Tobias’s brow furrowed. “So... Starfleet was behind this?”
“Not Starfleet as a whole,” Danny clarified. “But someone within their ranks. Corruption runs deep, and there are those who see the Dolmen as a threat to their control.”
---
The Creator Revealed
Danny gestured for Tobias to sit, and as he did, he couldn’t help but glance at the sketches scattered across the desk. His eyes widened as he recognized familiar characters—Ripple, Skye, Wenda and even Durple, the dragon-like Sprunki.
“You really are the creator of Sprunki Babies,” Tobias said, his tail swishing excitedly. “I grew up watching that show! I mean, I still watch it sometimes. It’s just... it’s amazing.”
Danny laughed, leaning back in his chair. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. I made it to bring a little joy and some lessons into the world. But it’s also more than just a cartoon.”
Tobias tilted his head. “What do you mean?”
Danny’s expression grew serious. “The stories and lessons in Sprunki Babies were inspired by real experiences. The themes of teamwork, kindness, and standing up for what’s right... those are values the Dolmen stand for. The show was my way of sharing that message.”
---
A New Perspective
Tobias leaned back, his ears flicking as he processed the information. “So you’re the leader of the Dolmen and the creator of my favorite cartoon?”
Danny grinned. “Life’s funny that way, isn’t it?”
“Why would someone target you?” Tobias asked. “You’re just trying to help people.”
“Not everyone sees it that way,” Danny said. “Some see hope as a threat. But with people like you and Virtuoso standing up for what’s right, I know we can overcome this.”
Tobias nodded, a spark of determination lighting in his eyes. “I won’t let them win. Whoever’s behind this... they’ll pay.”
Danny placed a hand on Tobias’s shoulder, his smile warm. “And we’ll make sure of it—together.”
---
A Mission Unfolding
As Tobias left the office, his heart felt lighter despite the gravity of the situation. Meeting Danny had been an unexpected twist, but it gave him a renewed sense of purpose. The fight against corruption was far from over, but Tobias knew he wasn’t alone.
With Virtuoso’s guidance and Danny’s leadership, he felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
