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Coloring by me
Backstory for the Guardians
The Zone Cops' weapons mainly involve two functions: energy being used to attack, and energy inhibition. Naturally, there has to be something that allows these weapons to work, and that source is none other than the No Zone's Master Emerald.
Even before the formation of Zone Jail, the echidnas guarded the Master Emerald for centuries, and their integration into the justice system is recent and unusual. The Master Emerald is under their protection only, and as such is not owned by the Zone Jail. The echidnas are given gifts by the warden, in exchange for letting them tap into the gem's power.
The reason they are dressed the way they are is also a unique situation. Warden Zobotnik, who first started the Emerald Guard by enlisting Zocke's grandfather, is a cruel man. Aside from his pleasure in 'harsh rehabilitation,' he also views the Zone Cops as his own prisoners, as he is the one providing them with the income they get, and making sure they hold to his rules. Hence why the Zone Cops wear the same orange jumpsuit that the prisoners do. The Guardians, though, have no need for his money, and thus he has no control. Instead, their outfits are made black for espionage purposes, and they have access to any and all of the Zone Jail's resources and new technology.
Znuckles and Zocke are the current guardians of the Master Emerald, with Zocke's father being retired. Zocke himself is the top ranking guard, thanks to his years of service and impressive record. Znuckles isn't as seasoned as his father, but he has perfected his training and already has a few years under his belt, showing his dedication to protecting the gem powering the No-Zone's main source of crime-fighting.
For 2025, as part of my #freethepeets movement, Znuckles was part of a poll. While Hala won, I decided that Znuckles and Arvon should at least get new shoes! These fancy boots feature a clear, thin sole, and clear toe and heel guards, allowing for more visibility of the foot and zero-drop, making them as close to barefooting as possible!