#Sonic has gripped onto me again

[polymathial]

The difference

[ace-does-stuff]

so, why'd ya do that?

summary: in Shadow's defence, Sonic should be able to tell when he's bluffing

tags: sparring, cafe meetup, chattin' it out, Amy and Sonic are roomies

authors note: @ohposhers @aethiriarts so i wrote some sonadow and you're are the sonadow fans in my dm's. it turned out a little bit mid methinks, but fuck it we ball and send it off the sonadow nation.

https://archiveofourown.org/works/58263085

"You wanna kiss me so bad," Sonic taunted in spite of the blood that had made it's way to his lips from a fierce punch mere moments ago.

"What if I do?" Shadow snapped back.

And holy fuck that was not supposed to be the response that Sonic got for his smug remark.

He's pretty sure that it's visible the way that his mind crashes, a blank look sort of creeping onto his face. Wild way to respond to that. He's never ever had anyone say anything like that to him before, usually it gets him another punch to the snout.

But that?

Not that.

The grip on his shoulder presses down again, forcing quills into dirt and it hurts. But it jolts Sonic back into reality, he stares up at Shadow and finds a sharp gaze searing into him.

"Well?" Shadow said, a low growl vibratory on his voice.

Sonic smirked, trying to regain his footing, "Then do it, coward-"

And, well, maybe Sonic should've expected Shadow to actually do it. He isn't usually the type to bluff. It still leaves Sonic absolutely dumbfounded even as he watches Shadow rear back and wipe the blood, Sonics blood, off his lips with the back of his hand.

They're supposed to be fighting right now.

Not supposed to be doing whatever it is that Shadow just did.

Still, he stands up like nothing happened, "Good match."

Sonic takes a full moment to register the words and give a response, gathering his composure to come to sit up. He still struggles to be coherent, "Shadow- wait. I. What."

"Our sparring session is over, I have to go do some real missions," Shadow said, he spat the words with some form of bland venom. Not quite aggressive or disappointed or anything really, just flat and firm.

"Could you at least tell me why you did that?" Sonic asked, shocked exasperation on his voice as he spoke.

"You told me to," Shadow said, "Same time, same place, next week?"

"Well, yeah obviously- you still didn't answer my question though." As he spoke he ambled over to Shadow.

"I did, if you didn't want me too you shouldn't have put the offer out there," Shadow snarked back, "Now please, let me do my actual job."

Sonic retracts himself, hands raised in surrender, "Be on your way, my good fellow."

And in a flash of green chaos Shadow is gone.

That leaves Sonic to contemplate by himself.

Man what the fuck Shadow?

-/-/-/-

"Hey, Amy, what does it mean if a guy kisses you?" Sonic asked over dinner.

Amy nearly choked on her own spit, "A guy kissed you?!"

"Yeah-"

"Who was it?" That exuberant glee she held in her youth has returned tenfold at the knowledge of her friends latest affair. Not an affair though. It was just a kiss, to her knowledge. Still, excitement courses through her.

Sonic waved off her statement, "Nu uh, not telling."

"Then I won't tell you what it means," Amy said.

"Alright, that's cool, I'll go ask Rouge instead," Sonic said, a bit of a huff on his voice.

"You know she'll ask the same question." Came the singsong response. The pink hedgehog gives a pleased hum as she places aside her plate to the coffee table and reaches to turn down the tv. "I'll explain it to you if you want me too."

"I'm not gonna tell you who it is-"

"Don't worry, I have a hunch. I'm generous anyways, I let you live here for free."

Sonic rolled his eyes.

"It probably means he likes you, if he asked then you might like him back because you said yes."

"Well I thought he was joking."

"That does complicate things- do you like him?"

"Obviously, but it's complicated!"

That gave Amy pause.

Well shit.

This might be a little bit harder than she expected.

"You like him enough to let him kiss you, so that means something. You're one interesting hedgehog."

"Okay, so how come my best friend kissed me?"

"Is he your best friend? Do you think he feels differently?"

Sonic can't quite answer firmly, he doesn't fricking know. Shadow isn't exactly an open book. Still, "Of course he doesn't!"

Amy catches the hesitation, "You should go talk to him about it, see if he's caught some feelings for you."

"There's no way that he has!"

"You can never be too sure about feelings, they're fickle, Sonic."

"What would you know about it?"

Amy gestures vaguely to the apartment, "We went from me chasing you around with a hammer to living together as besties- that seems pretty fickle to me."

Sonic huffs, "Fine, I'll ask him about his feelings."

A grin creeps onto Amy's face, "Yay, now eat your dinner! You've got a mission tomorrow and we cannot have you drop unconscious on the spot."

"Alright, alright."

-/-/-/-

"A coffee date?" Shadow asked, just to make sure he heard correctly.

"Yeah, just to chat!" Sonic answered with as he slammed down his heel on a badnik, metal shredding under the force.

Shadow bashes his elbow into a different badnik before speaking, "I'll consider it."

"Okay great! How does tomorrow sound?" Was Sonic's response to the notion.

"How about we work out a time and place after this mission?"

-/-/-/-

Shadow is used to Sonic being late, so it's very much a surprise to see the blue blur waiting patiently for him at a patio table with a mug in hand. He's tapping his foot anxiously on the ground and it deterred most of the other patrons. He perks up the second he sees Shadow, a smile quickly rising to his face as his postures straightens.

He takes a seat across from his friend and finds a cup of iced water sitting in front of him.

Sonic slides over a plate with half of a croissant, cleanly sliced in half.

Shadow raises a brow.

"I thought you might enjoy it, so I saved ya half," Sonic said as calmly as he could despite nerves wracking his form.

Shadow takes the plate, "Thank you." He breaks off a piece of the croissant before speaking again, "What did you want to talk about?"

"Why did you kiss me?" Sonic asked.

Shadow shrugged, "I was given the chance and I wanted too, why else?"

Sonic just sort of stared at him, "That's seriously it?"

"You wouldn't take a hint any other way," Shadow said, a scoff of disappointment on his voice. He knew Sonic was dense as a brick but this? This is a whole other level.

He stares at Sonic as he processes the words.

"People already think we're dating, Sonic- there are rumours flying around town, Sonic," Shadow said, leaning forward just a bit.

"What do you mean there are rumours?" Sonic questioned.

"Do none of your friends keep you up to date on that sort of thing?" Shadow asked back.

Sonic shook his head, "None of them gossip."

"Rouge is good for that sort of thing, she knows everything," Shadow said. He broke off another piece of croissant, "But I kissed you to get it into your thick skull that I like you- and yet you still had to come ask me to confirm it for yourself. You really are an idiot."

"Huh." Sonic pauses, "I guess Amy was right about you liking me-"

Shadow refrains from barking at Sonic and first falters to swallow his bite of croissant, holding up a hand as if to say one moment. Then he wipes his lips of crumbs and speaks, "You told Amy!?"

"In no uncertain terms! I didn't say it outright, I just asked her for some advice."

"That girl has never once been in a relationship, how would she know anything!?"

"It was her or Tails, I think I chose right, Shads."

Shadow sighs, "Look, just, do you like me back?"

Sonic shrugged, "Yeah, 'course I do. Might be fun to date you while we're at it."

"You are so annoying- fuck, I can't believe I love you."

"I can't believe it took you so long to say it."

"I can't believe you had to ask me outright to realize how insane the tension between us is."

"Fair point."

Shadow groans in annoyance, "You are, so dumb."

Sonic leans in a bit, "Yeah, I might be." He's smirking, "Wanna go spar?" He quirks a brow that's loaded with implications.

Shadow chuckles, "After I finish my croissant, we can spar all day and night."

[sapphiresterreart]

Inspired by this post: where Shadow finds Super Sonic and ONLY Super Sonic attractive. Sonic's normal self is not wanted.

It made me cackle because I couldn't help but picture Shadow deciding to explore this gay awakening in the most convoluted way possible. Cue me getting carried away with the idea and scribbling a rough scene.

Stuffed under the Read More.

At one point after seeing Sonic's glow-up into Super a few times, Shadow's brain latches onto an idea and goes insane until he scratches the metaphorical itch.

He zooms around the entire planet to collect the 7 Chaos Emeralds AND the maximum amount of rings a single person can hold.

Randomly shows up at Tails’ workshop/house one day, looking particularly deranged to the poor fox because the guy's spent the past month running himself ragged and is now gunning for his older brother for some unfathomable reason. Eggman couldn’t possibly have recovered from the last beat down in such short time! Something’s clearly wrong.

Shadow’s carefully manicured quills are in utter disarray. Gunk and grease coat his muzzle. Gloves notably tattered and inhibitor rings tarnished. There’s a suspicious smearing of red all over his typically immaculate chest fluff. Worst of it all are his eyes: near feral in their intensity as they pin the fox in his computer chair from afar.

The surly hedgehog snarls. “Where’s Sonic?”

All the while, Shadow has to keep ahold of the seven emeralds that prolly act like magnets and want to repel away from each other. His sanity’s hanging on a thread. 

Luckily Sonic shows up soon (instead of late? First time for everything! What a relief) after a brief, albeit frantic call from his lil bro.

Sonic does not expect Shadow to look like such a wreck. He does not expect his usually composed rival to yank an absurd amount of rings from the pocket dimension everyone had in their feathers, fur, or otherwise back part of their body. He does not expect those same rings to be shoved into his hands and quills, forcibly stuffing them into his own ‘inventory’ of a pocket dimension. 

He does not expect the rings to keep coming until he can’t hold anymore.

He does not expect the Seven Chaos Emeralds to immediately follow after.

“Shad–” Sonic tries, absolutely baffled.

“Transform.” Shadow gives him nothing except a haggard sort of desperation. “Now.”

And. Well. When asked like that? Damn. He won’t say no but that’s some voice his rival has on him. Hmm. Still. He doesn’t go super just yet because there’s only so long a transformation can last and he’d like some of the facts first. Especially if the situation’s as dire as Shadow’s making it out to be.

“What’s up?” He tosses out a tense smirk and a quip to lighten the mood. “Got yourself in trouble with the law again, Shads? Need me to use your own money to bail–“

“Transform.” Shadow staggers and oh no he’s gonna pass out isn’t he? He straightens before he can truly fall. 

Sonic lets the smirk fall. This is too unusual. “Not until you tell me what’s going on! What the heck Shadow?”

The glare intensifies. He looks weirdly… hungry? Oh. He hopes that's not some alien DNA comin’ out to play. Sonic’s not in the mood to be eaten. At least… not in the way his shoot-first-questions-later friend would likely consider.

“…Transform first and then I’ll tell you.” 

What an oh-so generous counter-offer. Sonic’s tempted to refuse on principle but the guy looks ready to collapse and there’s only so long Sonic himself can hold all seven emeralds at once before they launch outta his grip. 

He sighs. “Yeah, alright.”

Sonic closes his eyes. Concentrates. Feels the power humming in the gems, lets them push away from him with him as their center of gravity to orbit. Momentum builds as they whirl around him. His focus deepens. A zen sort of calm settles over him like a familiar cloak as he pulls the gems back into his core sense of being. A spark ignites and he’s set aflame.

His feet leave the floor as the power repels him against the planet. Feels the gems thrumming alongside his veins as he opens his eyes. The world glitters a beautiful gold but he doesn’t have time to smell the roses. Rings are burning like a candlestick’s wick, after all.

“Start talking.”

Shadow does not start talking. Instead he stares. Only stares. It’s… kind of concerning, actually. 

“Shadow?” Super Sonic frowns, spending more energy concentrating on maintaining the sheer power humming in his soul than on coming up with a funny joke. “Are you alright?”

Shadow doesn’t make a sound. Is he even breathing? Super Sonic’s brow furrows and gently glides from near the ceiling to hover in front of his rival. Red eyes track the movement like a predator intent on its prey but Super’s not worried about that. Not right now, at least.

Keeping his expression soft, yet unwittingly focused, Super examines his rival’s disheveled state. For the Ultimate Lifeform, he looks ultimately wrecked. He smirks, just a lil, and Shadow hones in on it like a laser beam. Super blinks, smirk twisting into a puzzled smile as he tilts his head, before slowly grasping Shadow by the shoulder. 

“C’mon focus, Shadow. You with me?” Wide, red eyes blink dumbly and Super huffs a laugh. “How can I help?”

Shadow. Doesn’t respond. Merely gapes at him like he’s drinking in the sight. It’d be flattering at any other time but right now it’s just frustrating.

“I can’t help if you don’t tell me what’s goin’ on. On a time limit here–“

“You have full inventory.” 

Finally! He speaks! But lacks sense. “What?”

“Rings.” Shadows answers though that doesn’t answer much. Choosing instead to fall silent once more and continue staring.

Super doesn’t know what to do with any of this so he turns to someone who might. “Tails? Any clues?”

“N-no…” His lil bro trots over to them, visibly disturbed. Good. Glad he’s not the only one confused here.

“I’m burnin’ rings.” Super settles for instead. “Thought you said it was urgent?”

“I thought it was.” Tails gestures at the catatonic state of their friend. “I mean look at him! What was I supposed to say?”

“Well.” Super starts strong only to trail off.

He pivots in the air, still hovering in front them both. Cups his chin with a thoughtful frown. Absently skims the cluttered workshop as he slowly spins in place before re-centering with a shrug. It’s surprisingly hard to keep focus and maintain the super form when there’s no imminent threat. Without anything to go on, he's just wasting power. So. His gaze returns to his battered rival.

“If nothing else I could try this?”

He drifts closer to the still stunned speechless ‘hog. Frowns slightly at the white part of Shadow’s eyes. They’d reddened significantly. Had he blinked once in the past minute or two? Nothing worth worrying over, he supposed. Not if this worked.

Super reaches a hand, still glowing a vibrant gold and soft flames of light emanating off him, and gently braces a palm against the side of Shadow’s face. Shadow doesn’t even move as Super closes his eyes.

Tails shifts beside them. “Try what?”

Super hums. “We’ll see if it works first, buddy.”

The sound vibrates in his chest and makes its way down the arm connecting him to his rival. The rings are burning slower than usual but once he starts this, they start burning like they would in battle. 

Super focuses the gem’s energy from their raw state of chaotic power into something he can channel into another person. He smoothes corrosive edges, softens acidic potency, gentles the sheer intensity of it all and funnels them through his own energy. Pours bits of his own chaos mixed with the gem’s through that funnel in his palm. Pushes it from there into Shadow’s own energy.

Shadow doesn’t do anything more than gasp sharply and let him do his thing. Super mentally shrugs, privately delighted by the fact Shadow was letting him touch him at all especially his face, and continues his foray into healing via chaos energy. 

The rings are gone even faster than in battle and soon after the last wound has closed and Super’s pulled away, the power keeping him aloft drains completely. The golden glow fades from his quills and they drop back into blue as he returns to the ground, his normal self once again. His grasp on the chaos emeralds slacken and the tension that had been building between the seven finally releases. The gems launch themselves harmlessly out of him like a slingshot and scatter once more.

He bounces a step from the residue energy crackling inside him and beams at his rival. “So now that that’s over with, mind telling us why you came all this way looking like you crawled outta a dumpster caught on fire?”

That of all things has Shadow snapping back to himself. Any awe lingering in his rival’s face vanishes. Fully returns to his normally composed self as he straightens and crosses his arms with a muted huff.

“Merely an experiment. Good day.” Whirls on a heel with shoes revving, dips his head in what might’ve been a polite farewell at his lil bro. “Prower.”

And leaves. He leaves. The cryptic jerk leaves.

Sonic gawks. “Whuh–? What was that?” He spins to face his brother. “Did you see that? Did you see?”

“I saw.”

“Didn’t even say goodbye to me! Me! He was the one who asked me to come all this way! I was next in line for brainiac dogs over in Spagonia, you know. Not as good as chili dogs but it was buy one get one free day! What the heck?”

His younger brother can only shrug helplessly with a puzzled smile, twin tails swishing behind him. “Don’t know, big bro. He did say it was an experiment.”

“Experiment in driving me insane, maybe! Now I’m gonna go crazy trying to figure him out.”

“You mean you weren’t already?”

“Tails!” He grins and hooks an arm around his annoyingly adorable baby bro. “I’ll show you who’s crazy!”

His bro only laughs and swats at the fist digging into his hair. Futilely fighting against the inevitable noogie but he's got him secured by the shoulders. “Have mercy! I’m not the one who spent the past month looking for seven whole emeralds and an entire inventory’s worth of rings.”

“I’ll give ya that!” Sonic cackles and lets him free. “What was up with that anyway?”

Elsewhere, unbeknownst to the brothers, one Shadow the Hedgehog was having a crisis of epic proportions. He had discovered a new, albeit incredibly difficult goal in life: to have Sonic turn Super more often than not because wow did he look alluring with a face of focused intensity framed by golden hues.

[max-nico]

Today I offer you an unbreakable bond ficlet from that celeb au that I've mentioned. Tomorrow? Who knows.

Note before you read: Sonic is in a band, Tails is a child prodigy as well as a revolutionary inventor, they are best friends

Tails thinks he's much too old to be scruffed. He's turning thirteen this year, there is no reason that his best friend is currently scruffing him. Well-there is a reason actually, just a dumb one that doesn't matter anyway, so that basically means there's no reason.

He was only doing his job as Sonic's best friend and honorary younger brother; defending him to the media. They're nothing but vultures who try to tear him down and he's just so tired of it. So what he bit a reporter? They shouldn't've gotten so close to his teeth if they didn't wanna be bit.

This is stupid. Sonic is stupid. Friendship officially over.

"If you don't wanna be scruffed, then maybe you shouldn't bite people." Sonic says flatly, tightening his hold on Tails as he flails in his grip.

"Maybe you should just let me go, you're being dumb!"

"I'm being dumb?!"

"Yes!!!"

"Tails, please do me a favor and repeat back to me what you did today."

Tails scrunches his face and crosses his arms, trying to plant his feet into the ground so Sonic stops dragging him.

"Well?"

"I fought for your honor!"

"You bit a reporter!"

"He was talking crap about you right in front of you! I should've ripped his arm off!!"

"Tails!?"

"What, I'm right and you know it!!"

Sonic facepalms, a large huff exiting his muzzle as he turns Tails to look at him. He has a face of pure exhaustion that makes the fox feel a little bad, but he has no regrets. That guy had it coming. He could sue Tails for all he's worth and he still wouldn't regret it.

"You act like you wouldn't do the same thing for me." Tails tries to fight his way out of Sonic's hold again, he fails.

"I wouldn't."

Tails growls. "Don't scruff me and lie to my face at the same time, it's poor manners."

"Don't talk to me about manners when you still have someone else's blood in your fur."

Then he's being dragged across the floor again, fighting the entire way down the hall. Stupid Sonic. Stupid reporter. It's not even like it's a lot of blood, he's had worse from biting his tongue too hard.

Sonic completely lifts him from the ground and places him on a chair in the back of the venue. The hedgehog whips out his phone as Tails snarls at him, harmlessly clawing at the air in front of him.

"No, stop." Sonic says, "Your parents are on their way."

Hurt flashes in the foxes eyes, the burning anger from just a second ago nowhere to be seen as he looks at Sonic. His head is tilted down and his face is screwed up like he ate a sour lemon. "You... You told them?"

Tails feels like his heart dropped onto the floor, and he can feel his unwanted tears clogging his throat. He promises he was joking before, he didn't actually want to end their friendship. He doesn't actually think Sonic is stupid he was just upset. Sonic is basically the older brother he's never had.

"What? No! They watched the news!" Ah, that makes more sense. "No matter how angry I am would never do that to you. Do you understand?"

Tails nods, but he doesn't feel more reassured. Honestly, he's a few steps from throwing up. All he really feels now is nausea and regret for arguing with Sonic, still not for biting that guy though, he would do it again if he could.

Tails just wishes that he didn't spend half of his last few moments here arguing with Sonic and instead of making up, because now his parents are coming. His parents are coming and if he thinks being yelled at by Sonic is bad, being punished by his parents is ten times worse. Tails would rather Sonic yell at him for the rest of the day than be with his parents for an hour

"Listen bud," Sonic sighs, crouching down to Tails' level. "It won't be all bad. We still have the whole brand deal thing going on, so you'll be right back with me again tomorrow? I'll even come get you myself."

Tails wipes his eyes and sniffles, the gesture makes him feel like he's a lonely five year old all over again. Determined not to cry and just as scared as he used to be, but he really does try to take Sonic's words to heart.

Just one night back at home. One night with his parents. One night on punishment. One night. Just twelve hours.

Taking a deep shaky breath, Tails gives Sonic a lopsided grin. He can do one night, because his brother has taught him not to dwell on the now and keep looking forward. He can do one night, because tomorrow he gets to see Sonic all over again.

And isn't that exciting?

Three non related posts in a row wow guys. I think I might be with the kids call a "sigma" (⁠◕⁠ᴗ⁠◕⁠✿⁠)

Anyway, I also have a drabble for Amy and Cream somewhere as well as one about Sage and Mika (instead of Miku.. I couldn't help myself), I have one about Tails and Kit in my Google docs and one about how Sonic and Tails met, I just love my little guys in my head what can I say.

Instead of writing for this au in the past month I have a bunch of fake Twitter posts for them so maybe I will post those at some point 😭🤚🏾

Anyways uhmm.... Come jump in my ask box if you want. I love talking to people

[wavesrollin]

His Real Home

Tails has an unhappy encounter with Amadeus of all people.

Tails barely remembered waking up. He barely remembered even walking out the door when he was grabbed by him.

The tall dark man had him by the elbow, fist holding on so tight his arm had fallen asleep.

He must also be asleep because the man holding his arm was taking him somewhere, and he wasn't fighting back. Why wasn't he fighting back? He didn't want to go with him. And he was gripping at his arm and it hurt so bad and- Why have they stopped?

The kit looked around at the dark forest surrounding them, the silhouettes of three dark figures in front of them.

"Tails?" A familiar female voice called out of one of them. "Tails what are you doing out here with- A light shone on the fox that had Tails in a tight grip. The familiar dark brown with black-tipped ears he'd remember anywhere.

"Amadeus?" He called up to him. Pulling at his arm as danger signs flashed in his mind. The grip on his elbow only grew tighter. "Amadeus, let me go." But the fox didn't, and now he was dragging him somewhere farther away from the silhouettes and he couldn't get free and he wasn't going to get free and oh my God where is he taking him? Can't be anywhere good, right? No not with Amadeus, he couldn't go anywhere good with his sperm donor. Was he going to die?

"Amadeus let me go." He said again firmly, dragging his feet to stop himself from going much farther. Maybe then his friends could catch up with him.

"Sonic!" He called to the shadows in the distance. "Sonic help me!"

Suddenly, an intrudingly bright light lit up around them, and Tails winced under the harsh glow.

"Tails?" Sonic called over to him, the bright cerulean glow of the familiar hedgehog coming closer and closer to him. "Tails what are you- "

"Help!" Tails managed to get out before a dark paw reached over his muzzle, effectively shutting him up.

"Hey!" A gruff voice shouted. The owner of which came closer to them. "Unhand the fox.

"This does not concern any of you."

"You taking our little buddy here in the middle of the night doesn't concern us?"

"I'm taking him back to his real home."

"We are his real home!"

Tails scratched at the paws holding his muzzle shut, the deep desire to finally bite the man overcoming his fear. But before he could he felt the earth tilt at his feet as a heavy force came after the man holding him.

Amy put her hammer away and helped Tails back to his feet. "As we were saying our kit friend here isn't going anywhere with you. Now leave."

"I-"

"Leave!" She held her hammer up to strike the fox again, but she didn't get far enough as Tails dusted himself up and collected himself in those ten seconds.

"Leave!" She held her hammer up, ready to strike, only to be stopped by her fox kit friend holding a paw up in front of her.

"What do you want Amadeus?" He asked looking back at Amadeus.

"Your mother needs a kidney." The fox huffed.

"Well, she's not getting it from me."

"How dare you. That vixen gave you life. The least you could do with your sorry existence is keep her alive. She's your mother."

"She is not my mother, you both made that very clear when you kicked me out."

"I'm getting that organ if I have to tear it out of you myself."

"Wow, onto threat now are we? Well, Amadeus, well, I think this conversation is over then, you should hit the road because you're not getting anything out of me. Bitch."

"What did you say?!" A mean look came over the fox's muzzle.

"Lose an eardrum in the war too? You- "Tails fell back on the ground, holding the left side of his face, blood leaking out from under his paw. There were more threats and yelling and more threats after that, but all Tails could hear was the sound of Amadeus' slap across his face.

Soon with a few more threats with Amy's hammer, Amadeus begrudgingly agreed to leave Tails be. And Tails was gently lifted into a ticked off Sonic's arms.

Then they sped home. His real home was miles away from either Amadeus or Rosemary. The house he shared with the best brother in the world. Far into the Mystic Ruins where no one could ever hurt him again.

[son1c]

rouge wins the prize of "most trustworthy person sonic has met so far" by default

falling stars fic masterpost

The bat Mobian was deathly silent. The whole room, in fact, had suddenly become a void of noise. The only sounds to be heard were the soft hums of the fluorescent lights, and the bubbles lazily rising in the tank in the middle of the floor.

With an icy glare, the bat Mobian looked at Sonic. His accusation felt like a slap in the face. "What do you know? You're just another one of Eggman's toys." She adjusted the bands on her wrists protectively. Almost like she was daring Sonic to take them from her. "Shadow is gone, sweetheart. You can't steal from the dead."

Sonic shook his head. He felt dizzy from the sudden resurgence of memories--memories that his ruptured code couldn't hold back anymore. In his mind's eye, he saw Shadow, asleep in the pod in the basement. Now, it made sense why his wickedness, Doctor Eggman--blech, no. Let's try that again.

It made sense why Mr. Ivo didn't want him going down there. He would've broken free from the doctor's vice immediately if he'd seen Stripes. And Omega was down there, too. Trapped behind that locked door. Sonic felt himself growing angry just thinking about it.

The Robian said, "You're wrong. He's alive, and I can prove it!"

With her hands balled into fists, the bat spat, "This isn't a very nice trick, Blue. Even for an Eggman robot--it's low."

"I'm not a--" Sonic started to say, but stopped. He looked down at his hands. They were made of steel and screwed together with bolts. His argument held no water. Right now, he was an Eggman robot.

But it didn't matter. Robian or Mobian, Sonic wasn't gonna let this thief walk out of here with Shadow's inhibitor rings. And once he got them back, he was going to break his friend out of the basement, and then they would leave. Whatever information the doctor still had about their pasts wasn't worth being at his mercy.

However, before Sonic could charge at the bat, a badnik appeared at the base of the hole that had been smashed into the wall during their fight. It wasn't the motobug with the star on its head; it was a caterkiller that Sonic had saved from falling into the trash compactor last week. It looked worried.

Then, a buzzy bomber appeared. The same one that Sonic had caught after it flew into a live wire that caused its wings to lock up. And after that, a pair of eye stalks peeked over the ruined wall. They belonged to the crabmeat that somehow always managed to fall over and get stuck on its back. Luckily, Sonic had been there to pick it up and flip it back onto its feet every time that happened.

When Rouge saw what Sonic was looking at, she tensed. She knew this place was crawling with robots. She'd seen them when she'd snuck in. But that was why she'd been sneaky--so she didn't have to fight all of them. And now it looked like she was going to have to deal with a whole motley crew.

"Phoning in friends already?" Rouge asked the Robian. She kept her voice light and casual, despite the danger. "That's hardly fair. But you're gonna have to try a little harder than that to intimidate me!"

Sonic ignored her. He actually took his eyes off her entirely, so he could look down at the caterkiller and crabmeat that were now at his feet. The buzzy bomber joined them, although this badnik chose to perch on his head instead. It buzzed at him insistently.

"Sorry, guys, but you gotta go," Sonic said. He attempted to shoo the badniks out of the room, but they didn't budge. "I'm kinda in the middle of something right now, and it's not safe for--"

While Sonic was distracted, Rouge attempted to stomp on the crab robot. Take out the easy ones first, then worry about the big guy, she figured. But she was unsuccessful. Sonic caught her boot with one hand, and shot her a red hot glare.

"Leave them out of it," he said, his robotic voice crackling. "You want to fight? Fine. Waste your time. Just don't forget who you're up against!"

Sonic's grip on Rouge's boot tightened. Then, he grabbed her leg with his other hand, and spun her around, before letting go. She sailed through the air and crashed into one of the computers lined up against the wall. When she tried to push herself back up, her hand caught on a switch, and flipped it down.

The tank in the middle of the room started boiling like the water inside was being heated by lava. But Rouge ignored it, her eyes focused on the strange blue robot that was still glaring at her from across the room. She'd never seen anything like him before. It was already a rarity for Eggman robots to be able to talk, but to be protective over other bots? That was unheard of.

And he'd mentioned Shadow. But there was no way he was serious. She'd seen it herself, through the windows of the Ark--Shadow had fallen to earth, along with the blue hero. They were both dead.

Right?

"Let's get back on topic, hmm?" the bat said, a little tightly. She didn't want to think about that bad memory anymore. "I'm here for Eggman's secret treasure. Should be behind a big locked door. Ring a bell?"

Sonic frowned. The only locked door he knew about had Shadow behind it.

Rouge saw his expression change and smiled. It wasn't a nice smile, though. It was greedy. "Perfect!" she said. Her wings stretched out behind her. "Thanks for the confirmation. Now, are you going to tell me where it is? Or should I get my hacking gear ready for after our little dance? I'll get that information out of you one way or another!"

The crabmeat snapped its claws in Rouge's direction, and the caterkiller hissed at her. The buzzy bomber trilled threateningly.

Sonic stepped in front of the badniks, so that he was between them and the bat. He glowered at her. "You want what's in that room?" he asked. He might've been willing to take her there before, but not anymore. Not now that she'd threatened the badniks. "You better get used to wanting. Cuz you're outta luck! Those inhibitor rings are the only things that'll be changing hands!"

Rouge's smile faltered. The rings again, huh?

Sonic rocketed forward. He attempted to grab the bat's shoulders, but she was expecting it this time, and caught him by the wrists. Using his own momentum against him, she hurled him into the frothing tank in the middle of the room. He hit the water and sank to the bottom of the tank like a stone, momentarily disoriented.

The three badniks screeched. They charged at Rouge, their various blades and pincers ready to run her through like a shish kebab. Rouge turned to face them, prepared to defend herself.

But they never collided. The Roboticizer, with someone now inside of it, activated. A bright white light filled the room, and Rouge had to cover her eyes with her arm to keep from being blinded. She and the badniks flinched at the horrible noise emanating from the machine, a noise that sounded like rusted brakes, metal on metal.

And then, as quickly as it began, it was over. The water drained from the tank, and Sonic, no longer a Robian, was laying flat on the floor of the machine, shivering.

It was cold. So cold.

Rouge covered her mouth with her hand. She was shocked. No one could've survived falling from space. Not even Sonic the Hedgehog. That was what she'd thought, anyway. Even when Sonic's little fox friend insisted upon the contrary; she stayed realistic. And so the possibility that, this whole time, Sonic was alive and had been captured by Doctor Eggman had never even crossed her mind.

But if he was here, then that could mean Shadow was, too.

Rouge set her jaw. She ignored the black smoke pouring out of the cables hanging from the ceiling and flew into the tank. "Hey there, Big Blue," she said, offering her hand to him. "Long time no see. No hard feelings about our little spat, right?"

Sonic forced himself up onto his elbows. It felt like the world was spinning, but he was tough. Tougher than post de-Roboticization sensory overload. He pried his eyes open. Looked at Rouge. She looked back at him, her own eyes widening a bit.

"You're no good at first impressions, lady," Sonic said, his voice hoarse. Still, he grabbed her hand and pulled himself up onto his feet, using the wall of the tank to keep himself steady. "But if you're done trying to dismantle me, I won't complain."

Curiously, Rouge looked Sonic over. "I think I get it," she said after a second. "You don't remember anything, huh?"

"I remember plenty," Sonic said, a little annoyed. He hoped this exchange wouldn't happen every time he met someone from his past. "Like those rings. You gotta hand 'em over. Stripes needs 'em back, pronto!"

Rouge raised an eyebrow at the nickname. "Stripes?" she repeated.

"Yeah, you know, black hedgehog. Red stripes. The name's pretty on-the-nose, if you ask me." Sonic remembered what Eggman had told him before, that Rouge couldn't be reasoned with. But the doctor had turned out to be a scoundrel, so maybe he was lying about her. "He's in trouble. Without those rings, he'll be in deep water. You gotta give them back!"

Rouge glanced at the badniks on the other side of the glass. They looked like they wanted to kill her.

But only her.

She turned her attention back toward Sonic. "Usually I'd ask a pretty hefty price for something like this," she said with a dramatic sigh, "but since you saved the world and all, I'll cut you a deal. Consider it a 'thank you,' from me to you." With one twist of her wrists, she removed the inhibitor rings. But she didn't hand them over to Sonic just yet. "You can have these, on one condition."

Sonic looked from Rouge's face, to the rings, and then back to Rouge. "Better make it count," he said.

Rouge gestured to the badniks with one of her wings. "You keep those bots off my back. All of them. The only thing I want to worry about while I'm here is how much loot I'll walk away with! Not how many nails I'll break fending off Eggman's guard dogs."

"Deal," Sonic said. His opinion on Rouge was still pretty low, but if she was willing to give up Shadow's inhibitor rings without a fight, then maybe she wasn't the absolute worst.

Rouge smirked. "Glad we could work something out!"

The bat handed Sonic the inhibitor rings, and he wasted no time pulling them onto his own wrists. Then, Rouge watched as he jumped out of the tank, and knelt in front of the badniks on the other side of the glass. He said something to them. Flashed them a thumbs up. They all looked at Rouge, still angry, but not outright murderous anymore.

The bat was a little surprised. She’d thought that, now that Sonic wasn’t a Robian anymore, he would go right back to destroying Eggman robots like he used to. That was what she’d meant when she told him to keep them off her back, anyway. But maybe his fall had changed him more than she’d realized. Not that it mattered to her—so long as the badniks left her alone, he was staying true to his end of the bargain.

Sonic motioned for her to come out of the tank. Rouge did so, a little warily. But the badniks stayed where they were, at Sonic’s side. The buzzy bomber was on his head again. It glared at the bat, but all of the anger left its expression when Sonic stood up, and the robot looked down at him, its electronic eyes now big and wide. Like she wasn’t even there.

"We're gonna need to go all the way down to the bottom of this place to get to that door," Sonic told Rouge. "It'll be faster if we skip the lift, but it's a long drop to the basement. Think you can handle it?"

With a hand on her hip, Rouge easily replied, "If the only thing standing in between me and Eggman's treasure is an elevator shaft, he can kiss his riches goodbye!"

It took some convincing, but Sonic was able to get the caterkiller and crabmeat to wait for them at the top of the lift. Originally, he was going to tell the buzzy bomber to wait there too, but then he realized he didn't have rockets inside of his shoes anymore. So, when he and Rouge jumped down into the dark elevator shaft, he did so while holding onto the wasp robot's abdomen.

Once they reached the deepest part of the Brain Bowl, they stepped out of the elevator shaft and onto the basement landing. Sonic let go of the buzzy bomber and looked around. There were three branching hallways to choose from, but luckily, Sonic remembered which one led to the room that was locked behind the blast door. He started toward it immediately, with Rouge trailing not far behind.

When they got there, they were faced with their next problem: the door. The only way to unlock it was with Eggman's handprint. But maybe if he had a running start, he could--

"Hey, kid," Rouge said, derailing Sonic's train of thought. "You still with me? The lock's almost cracked. Make sure you're ready for whatever's inside."

Sonic blinked. He looked over at the keypad, and saw Rouge standing in front of it with a small black device in her hand that she had plugged into the wall. So, her comment about hacking into his systems earlier wasn't a joke, huh? Sonic suppressed a shudder.

Then, the keypad changed from red to green, and the blast door slowly started rising. Sonic turned toward the buzzy bomber floating by his shoulder, and said, "Be right back."

The wasp robot circled his head, buzzing indignantly.

Sonic gave it a lopsided grin. "Hey, that's not true! Who else is gonna watch the door, huh?"

Rouge pocketed her hacking gear and glanced over at Sonic and the buzzy bomber. She frowned, but didn't say anything.

By the time the door had lifted three feet off the ground, Sonic had joined Rouge in front of it. She nodded at him, and they both ducked inside the room. It looked exactly how Sonic remembered it. Same gray interior, same blinking machinery stacked around, some of it tall enough to touch the ceiling. And the green pod, glowing faintly, still holding Shadow inside.

However, before he or Rouge could make any moves toward it, Omega jolted to life. His rage from being locked down here for so long was palpable, practically microwaving the air around him. And when he saw Sonic, the settings were cranked up from defrost to high wattage in a nanosecond. He pointed his blasters at the blue hedgehog and opened fire.

"ELIMINATE ALL EGGMAN ROBOTS."

[blackenedsnow]

Great, because I had an idea with a Sonic Adventure character. Remember the green robot from Amy's story that kept trying to catch Amy and her bird?

His name is Zero, and this idea is about him.

Zero continues to live in Eggman's base in the Mystic Ruins after the game instead of Amy destroying him. For some reason, his new target is male Reader, and repeatedly catches male Reader in one of his giant hands like when he caught Amy.

Male Reader now spends his days escaping the Mystic Ruins base and trying to avoid Zero catching him again. On one such chase, Reader makes a mistake and gets caught again, and Zero begins taking him back to the base.

This story is about Zero carrying male Reader in his giant hand. - Sonic Adventure anon

target acquired

WARNING: Chase scenes

PAIRING: E-100 ZERO & (Male)Reader

NOTE: AWW THIS IS SO CUTE!! Thank you for the request!

SUMMARY: Living near Eggman’s old base in the Mystic Ruins comes with its own set of problems—chief among them being Zero, a persistent green robot who has now made it his mission to capture you.

The sun peeked through the dense canopy of the Mystic Ruins, casting a warm glow over the jungle. You sprinted through the underbrush, the sound of rustling leaves and distant wildlife filling the air. But there was something much more ominous behind you.

Thud. Thud. Thud.

The unmistakable heavy footsteps of Zero echoed through the trees. He was getting closer, and you cursed under your breath. This wasn’t the first time he’d chased you, and if you didn’t pick up the pace, it wouldn’t be the last time he caught you, either.

Why did he keep coming after you? Ever since you wandered too close to Eggman’s abandoned base, Zero had made you his new target. No matter how many times you escaped, he always returned, relentless in his pursuit.

You leapt over a fallen log, glancing over your shoulder. There he was—towering, green, and unwavering in his mission to catch you. His single red eye glowed ominously, scanning the terrain as he stomped toward you with those massive legs. You could almost feel his cold gaze locking onto you, narrowing as he closed the distance.

“Not again…” you muttered, trying to cut through a thicket of vines in a desperate attempt to lose him.

But Zero was faster than you expected. He didn’t need to dodge obstacles like you did—he just smashed right through them. A tree that had been in your path was torn up by its roots with a single swipe of his giant hand, and suddenly, the sound of breaking branches grew louder.

You pushed yourself harder, adrenaline fueling your sprint, but a misstep in your panic sent you tumbling to the ground. “No, no, no!” you gasped, scrambling to get back on your feet, but it was too late.

Before you could react, a shadow fell over you, and then—WHAM! You were lifted off the ground by one of Zero’s enormous hands. His fingers wrapped around you with surprising precision, and you found yourself trapped, held firmly in his cold metal grip.

“Let me go!” you shouted, struggling against his hold, but it was no use. His strength far outweighed yours, and with a whirring sound, Zero turned, beginning the long trek back to the base.

You sighed, resigned to your fate for now, though frustration still burned inside you. “Really? Again?”

Zero didn’t respond, of course. He just kept walking, his massive legs crushing everything in his path as he carried you through the jungle. Being carried in his hand wasn’t new to you, but it never got any less strange. His grip wasn’t painful—he wasn’t trying to hurt you, at least—but it was firm enough to remind you that escape wasn’t an option right now.

As you were jostled slightly with each of Zero’s heavy footsteps, you stared up at his featureless face, the red light of his single eye flickering occasionally as it scanned for threats. The robot remained silent, focused on his task. You wondered what his end goal was—what did he even want with you? He’d never tried to harm you before, but being captured day after day was starting to wear you down.

The base came into view, its looming metal structure partially hidden by the jungle’s dense foliage. Zero carried you effortlessly up a ramp leading to one of the many hidden entrances. You’d been here before—too many times, in fact—and you knew what was coming next. He would bring you inside, deposit you somewhere in one of the storage rooms, and then… what? It was the same routine every time, and yet you never understood why.

“Can’t we just skip this part?” you muttered, half to yourself, as Zero’s grip on you shifted slightly, securing you as he entered the base.

Once inside, the cool, sterile air of the base contrasted sharply with the humid jungle outside. Zero’s footsteps echoed against the metal floors as he moved deeper into the facility. You felt a twinge of hopelessness settle in. No matter how many times you escaped, Zero would always be there, waiting, hunting.

But as the robot carried you deeper into the base, you couldn’t help but wonder what he was programmed to do. Was it simply a directive he couldn’t let go of? Or was there something more? You didn’t know, but for now, you would wait—wait for your chance to escape again, like you always did.

[true-blue-sonic]

Hihi... Could you do 18. Encouragement for Espilver? I really like your stories...

18. …as encouragement.

White Space is... intriguing, Silver ponders as he limps towards Crisis City.

If anything, it's a testament to the plethora of places Sonic has been to before; there's plenty Silver doesn't recognise. And many of them are lovely as can be, with lush sceneries and grandiose buildings all around. Plus, it's nice to talk to all his friends gathered here, either waiting in White Space or traversing the various Zones at their leisure while Sonic and his tiny counterpart restore more and more of the areas.

Now that Sonic has trounced him and he doesn't need to watch his Chaos Emerald anymore, Silver had taken to exploring as well.

"I think you'll like Sky Sanctuary! It's a part of Angel Island that's made of tons of ruins and stuff," Sonic had told him once he'd scraped Silver off the pavement and brought him back to the front of Crisis City, in the empty safety of White Space. "Knuckles should be hanging around there, and Amy too."

"I'll tell them about your progress," Silver had promised, before setting off to the left while Sonic and tinier Sonic rushed right. Though, already the first Zone he encountered was gorgeous as can be: a sprawling ocean scene, orcas jumping through and elaborate stone buildings with red decorations cluttering the lands. Others coming before that had been lovely as well, but after his visit to Sky Sanctuary and taking the decision he should return to Crisis City should Sonic desire a rematch, Silver's found himself pausing in front of Seaside Hill once again.

With before it Espio, irkedly hurling around shuriken with a face containing thunder.

"Hey, Espio," Silver speaks up... as an altogether frosty glare gets sent his way.

"Silver."

Espio rarely talks like that and certainly not to Silver, and thus the hedgehog raises a prompt eyebrow as he floats over. "You're mad," is easy to conclude; Espio's shoulders are raised, his throws on point as always yet containing none of the grace with which his beloved usually fights.

A grumble is Silver's response, another shuriken getting hurled. "I lost."

"Lost what?"

"...Hide-and-seek with Sonic."

Silver's begun laughing before he can stop it.

"Shut up!!" Espio hisses at him, though as he whirls around to jump right at Silver to grab him and wrestle him to the ground a laugh slips past his lips as well. "I can turn invisible! Isn't that shameful?! All my training has been a complete, utter waste!"

Flailing his arms to grapple Espio into a death grip Silver squeaks with chuckles, the two of them tumbling over sand and past empty white undergrowth until Espio's got him firmly pinned down. "I lost too. It's fine, Espio," the hedgehog pants, pushing a smirk onto his face as he catches his breath. "We'll get him next time, and it'll be fun!"

"It is not. A ninja of my calibre should never have ended up in such a situation in the first place. First getting swept away by some monster and frozen in time, and then being found multiple times by Sonic as we battle?" Slowly Espio's iron hold turns into nothing as he lets Silver's wrists go, something more dour crossing his face as he sighs. "I must keep training, clearly. Today has extensively proven to me my ineptitude."

With a snort Silver pushes Espio to the side, the other tumbling onto the white ground with a grunt and promptly finding himself snatched into grey arms. "Sonic's just really strong. Instead of bemoaning that, you know what to work towards," the hedgehog brings up; advice that Espio likes to give to others as well. "And you're not an inept ninja."

"I am."

"Are not." Head bonking against Espio's Silver puts the cutest, cheekiest, most adoring smile on his face. "You're the strongest, coolest, and most skilled ninja I have ever met. And the most serious."

"...I'm the only ninja you've ever met."

"You don't know that," Silver, whose ninja-meeting indeed has kept itself to a single person until now, responds incorrigibly. His next step is a sadder nuzzle, against Espio's cheek. "And I don't want to hear you say such things about yourself. It's not true," he adds. He doesn't like the thought Espio is beating himself up about anything...

Espio hums softly... but his arms wrap around Silver too, the hedgehog's tail thrumming against the ground in delight. "I appreciate your encouragement, tenshi," his beloved smiles; a real smile this time, his fingers trailing over small grey ears. And as he leans closer, Silver eagerly presses their mouths together; a kiss of praise and faith, Espio getting tugged even closer against him as the other breathes out a mumble of surprise.

"You got this, Espio. We'll both keep training, and we will beat Sonic one day," Silver purrs at him, once he's broken away and gasped some air into his empty lungs. "Maybe together. There's nothing we can't do with the two of us!"

"That is a good point. But first, let us rest and recuperate," the chameleon agrees fondly. And with how perfectly Silver lays snuggled against his side, the hedgehog can only agree. Sonic can wait for his rematch.

First he'll give Espio some more kisses and nuzzles of encouragement, just in case he needs it.

[lightninghikaru]

I loved the IDW version of the Swap you did and how about you do something similar but with the Sonic Prime ending.

Where Shadow gives his prism energy to restore the Shattered and Sonic has to carry it.

This is my proposal and I hope you read it.

I'm glad you liked that one! It was a deep one for sure. Hmmm this one might be tricky, the foundation of how Shadow broke the prism would be different. He's not as reckless as Sonic.

So we'll just take that specific scene and swap them. (Overdid it again)

“Stop!” Shadow blocked the Egg Council’s attack aimed at Nine. He knew Nine was the only one who had the schematics for the prism. They needed him.

“You would protect him?” Rusty asked, robotic voice increasing in volume.

“Yes,” Shadow said, standing firmly. He glances over at Sonic giving him a nod.

“The black rodent has finally lost it! Very well, we’ll destroy you both!” Mr. Doctor Eggman said.

“In a few minutes there won’t be anything left to fight over.” Shadow said with a snarl, still shielding Nine with his body.

“The Hedgehog makes a good point.” Doctor Deep said. They all stand back only slightly, just in case. Sonic stays next to Rebel wanting to stand next to Shadow but worried Nine might become hostile.

“You must understand. Their worlds have been shattered, their homes destroyed. And it won’t be long before this place shares that fate.” Shadow kneels down to look Nine in the eye. “So how do we stop it?”

Nine looks through the scattered people all watching him. His ears droop seeing Sonic look away from him… he had hurt him too… “I-I pushed it too far. This wasn’t supposed to happen… I-I’m sorry Shadow… Without the complete prism… it’s over.”

Everyone looked at one another, as the forcefield continued to shrink ever closer. Some holding each other and others whimpering or crying. Rebel grabbed Renegade’s arm and looked into his eyes, they held each other for a moment, words not enough to express their feelings. The Rose’s grasp hands together. The Council is a sobbing mess.

“You said a part of the prism’s energy is inside me, right?” Shadow asked,

“Yes?” Nine said,

“Then take it out.” Shadow said, jumping onto the extracting platform.

“Wait… Shadow…” Sonic stepped forward,

Shadow shakes his head at Sonic before turning back towards Nine. “Can you do it?”

“You’d trust me to do that?” Nine asked, “After everything?”

“I still consider you a friend. Even if we got off on the wrong foot.” Shadow said,

“Regardless of what happens to me. After the spaces have returned, leave Nine to his peace here on the Grim.” Shadow called out. Ignoring Mr. Doctor Eggman’s comments about invading.

“That includes you Nine,” Shadow said,

“How can we trust him?” Renegade asked,

“You don’t. But I’m the only chance you got so all you have is my word.” Nine said,

“Don’t make me regret it.” Rebel hissed.

Nine runs over to his computer. “If I extract the remaining prism energy inside him, I can use it to fully reform the paradox prism.” He explained,

“Then what?” Dr. Deep asked,

“Then the prism will finally be stable. I can save everything.” Nine said,

“You heard him, we have a plan. Let’s do this.” Shadow said,

“I agree with the rat. Do it already.” Mr. Doctor Eggeman demanded.

“There’s a risk, If I remove the energy he may fall apart.” Nine warned. “Without the prism energy binding him… I’m not sure he’ll make it.” He looked at Shadow with an apologetic look.

Shadow takes a deep breath. If sacrificing himself will save his friends, his family. So be it. “I’m ready.”

“No, I won’t let you sacrifice yourself!” Sonic moved forward but both Renegade and Rebel grabbed him and pulled him back, “Let me go!”

“It’s the only way.” Shadow said, looking at his partner.

“Let him do this Sonic!” Rebel said,

Nine begins to type on the computer getting everything ready. Sonic doesn’t stop struggling from their grip as he looks up at Shadow with tears in his eyes. “I can’t lose you too.” He choked back a sob.

“I know.” Shadow gave him a smile before turning back to Nine who was ready. “Do it.”

Nine presses the button and they see prismatic lights surround and envelope Shadow. Letting out a yell of pain. His gloves and hover shoes glitch in and out of existence. The paradox prism pieces start to stitch back together as the gear Nine made Shadow blips into oblivion. He and the prism explode into a blast of white light. The Paradox Prism was finally whole.

Shadow collapses, his body a lighter shade as he almost looked transparent. “Let me go!” Sonic screamed as finally they listened and Sonic’s immediately by Shadow’s side. Tears were already streaming down his face.

“Shadow?” Nine called out, Shadow lets out an exhale of pain before starting to sit up with Sonic’s help.

“I’m still here.” Shadow looks at his hand and can faintly see through it. Sonic was making physical contact with him but who knew how long that would last. “For now…”

“He didn’t Shatter!” Rebel rejoiced as Renegade rushed over to help Sonic get Shadow off the platform. They both feel Shadow’s body glitch against them. The sound of static popping in their ears as Shadow winces in pain.

“His prismatic energy has been extracted. The prism is whole.” Nine said walking closer. “His body is holding together But I’m afraid it’s only a matter of time before…”

Sonic gives Renegade a look, he gives a nod and lets Shadow lean against him. “Could my Chaos energy restore him?” Sonic asked,

“I still don’t know what Chaos energy is and even if…”

“While you work on that We’ve got this!” Mr. Doctor Eggman said, gesturing to the Prism. The Council all stand defending the prism from them.

Nine runs over trying to get to the computer to stop them. But Doctor Babble grabs him by the tails and throws him back towards the others. Dr. Deep points his sword right at Sonic before he has a chance to react.

“Stand down blue gumball. I don’t trust one Hedgehog let alone two.” He said as Sonic growled at him.

“Doctor Don’t! Triangulate whatever is left of New Yolk City.” Mr. Doctor Eggman ordered.

“Once I calibrate the coordinates, we’re outta here.” Doctor Don’t said.

Nine gets ready to attack but Doctor Done-it points his weapon at him. “Ah-ah-ah! Careful! Look at your friend, he’s in no shape to fight.” Shadow snakes knowing he’s right.

“You may be right. But if Nine could barely handle the power of the prism, you clowns have no hope.” Shadow said.

“Now, now! We all must accept when our time is over.” Doctor Deep said. “But who knows? Perhaps when I wield the power of the prism, I’ll create a version of you that’s more agreeable.”

Sonic’s quills rise at that statement, but doesn’t have a chance to object when Doctor Don’t is already cutting in. “When you wield the prism? Wait till you see the VR world I’ve been planning. I’ll call it the Egg-a-verse.”

“In your dreams you no good whippersnapper!” Doctor Done-it chimed in.

“What’s a whippersnapper?” Doctor Don’t asked,

Doctor Babble also starts adding their two cents.

“Oh, cram it with walnuts ya big baby!” Doctor Done-it strikes Doctor Babbles mech. “Or I’ll give you a permanent timeout!”

“Enough you fools!” Mr. Doctor Eggman said, his head popping out of the top of his mech suit. “We stand at the precipice of a new world. And you would ruin my moment?”

“Your moment? Why you sanctimonious-” Doctor Deep dodges a surprise attack from Doctor babble. All of them move out of the infant Doctors' attack.

They all start fighting against each other as the rest just watch. Sonic prepares to lunge in and take them all out when Rebel steps beside him, “Hold on, Sonic. Let’s see how this plays out.” She gives a mischievous grin. One he was very familiar with.

“Stop! Stop, you morons!” Mr. Doctor Eggman demanded,

“Arghhh, Should we do something?” Dread asked,

“Not yet. This is like candy to me.” Renegade said with a satisfied smile.

The Doctors continue to fight. Nine looks over at Shadow, seeing him glitch with a pained expression. They were wasting time. He had to do something! Sneaking past the fighting he reaches his computer.

Putting coordinates out into the void he creates a portal right behind the fighting doctors. Doctor Babble strikes Doctor Deep right into it. “Babbles, no! Bad baby!” Mr. Doctor Eggman said.

“Can I smash now?” Sonic asked, looking at Rebel excitedly as she gave him a smile.

“Knock yourself out.” She said,

“Wo!” Sonic spins dashes Doctor Babble from the back, knocking him and Doctor Done-it into the portal. Leaving only Mr. Doctor Eggman and Doctor Don’t. They look and see they are outnumbered and they all move closer pushing them towards the void.

“Okay, that’s it. I’m out!” Doctor Don’t said, floating himself into the void without a fight.

Shadow pulls his arm away from Renegade, giving him a nod to join the final strike. “Now we do something.” Renegade said excitedly.

He, Rusty, and Rebel continue to corner him as Nine steps forward as well “No!” This belongs to me!” Mr. Doctor Eggman yelled. “I’ll defeat all of-”

Renegade punches the robot, stopping his monologue. Rusty uppercuts him into the air. Tails strikes him to angel him into position with the portal and Rebel makes the final strike, sending Mr. Doctor Eggman into the void.

“You haven’t heard the last of us! Just wait! We will amass an even greater army and destroy-”

Nine closes the portal and everyone cheers. “Good riddance.” Nine said,

Shadow lets out a groan of pain and starts to collapse. Sonic was there before he could hit the ground. Shadow’s body glitching again and starting to look more transparent. “Shadow?” Sonic looks terrified,

“Nine was right…” Shadow said, the glitch started to get worse. “With out the prism energy, I can’t exist in the Shatter spaces.”

“With the prism whole again, If I start the reformation process, theoretically, there’s still a chance I can bring back Green Hill.” Nine said, frantically typing away on his computer,

“Green Hill?” Sonic looked surprised.

“Here goes.” The Paradox Prism lets out a blast of white energy that causes them all to have to cover their eyes from blinding them. They all look up…

“The Prism! It be-” Batton was too stunned.

“Gone!” Rusty finished as they all looked terrified.

Did this mean the end of all their worlds?

“Look!” Nine points out to the sky as they see all the Shatter spaces reform. Sonic helps Shadow walk outside to see the Shatter space slowly become whole.

The gate way the furthest away from the Grim was Green Hills. Their home.

“You did it Nine.” Shadow congratulated, “Though with how far it is… I’m not sure I can outrun this…”

“Yes you can, if you leave now!” Nine said.

“Nine’s right. You get to your home; we’ll get to ours.” Rebel said,

“I got you.” Sonic said, tightening his hold on Shadow.

“You’re not doing it alone.” Renegade said, “Not when you got friends here to help.

Sonic almost loses his footing as Nine embraces Shadow. Shadow returns the hug before Nine just as quickly lets go, “Now hurry.” He said holding back a sob. “That gateway won’t be there forever.”

“Roses! Get them to their destination. Fly! And know we’ll be rooting for ya.” Dread said,

“Take care of each other.” Shadow said.

The Roses pull up the leviathan and Shadow and Sonic climb aboard. They head towards the Green Hills Gate as fast as the ship can muster.

“Hold onto your backsides! We’re gonna pick up the pace!” Black Rose said, pushing the leviathan past its limits.

There was so much debris that it kept striking into the ship slowing them down. “Hurry! He’s not going to make it!” Thorn panicked.

“Hold on Shadow." Sonic pleaded, barely managing to keep them both from being tossed around from the jolts.

“I’m doin me best! But this bucket of bolts is barely holding together!” Black Rose said.

“Keep it steady! I will clear a path!” Rusty said, shooting any debris from hitting the ship.

Unfortunately, one of the debris was too large and it took out the engine. “No! I’m losing speed!” Black Rose yelled.

Shadow was fading, the groans of pain coming out were fractured and broken, his body, a sickly grey hue with barely any life. He looked like a ghost.

“Black Rose, you brought us far enough.” Sonic said, standing up pulling Shadow’s arm over his shoulder. “I’ll take it from here.”

“Shadow gives them a nod goodbye before Sonic begins leading them closer to the portal.

jumping from rock to rock.

Sonic skids and Shadow crumples to one knee. He scoops Shadow into his arms and quickens his pace. Chaos energy sparking out of him as he goes at full speed. “Sonic… If I don’t make it…” Shadow winces as another glitch jolts through him.

“You’re going to make it! I won’t lose you!” Sonic forced himself to go faster. Shadow’s arm fell limply and his eyes shut from exhaustion. His body started to fade completely.

With one final push sonic breaks the sound barrier, shattering any of the nearby debris and he’s rocketing towards the Green Hills gateway. “Hang on, Shadow!”

They hit the gate and everything goes white.

Shadow grabs his head looking around slowly, beginning to recognize his surroundings, “Sonic?” Shadow called out seeing he was back in the cavern the paradox prism was discovered.

Time had reset and the previous fight was being put into motion. Shadow warps on top of Eggman’s mech and pulls him out before he could rip out the Prism. “Not this time.” Shadow snarled, taking Eggman by surprise.

“What do you mean this time?”

“That’s not any of your concern.” Shadow said. He made sure Eggman stayed in place while the others finished their battles.

“You and your friends are adorable when you try this hard hedgehog. But the result is Inevitable." Eggman taunted. But Shadow wasn’t going to take the bait. He knew how volatile the paradox prism was and would let him anywhere near it.

Shadow notices at the mouth of the cave stood Sonic, holding the green Chaos Emerald. He gives Shadow a relieved smile as he returns it with a nod.

“Don’t ignore me Shadow! This world is mine!”

Sonic warps on top of the Paradox Prism taking Eggman and the others by surprise. “Huh? Sonic? What that heck are you doing here?”

“I’m Sonic the Hedgehog! I go wherever I want.” He gave a taunting grim as he placed a grasped hand onto the Paradox Prism. “Chaos Control!”

And with a blip, Sonic and the Paradox Prism disappear.

“No! What have you done?” Eggman screamed,

“Looks like you lose Eggman,” Shadow said,

“You haven’t heard the last of me, Shadow!” He just rolls his eyes to the threat, “Cubot, Orbot! We’re gonna need a bigger fleet!” Eggman said, running away.

The others cheer as Shadow lets out a sigh of relief. “Are you alright Shadow?” Tails asked, looking at his brother worried.

“I will be now that everything appears to be back to normal.” Shadow said.

“Did we miss something?” Knuckles asked,

“A lot actually. But let’s get out of here, I’ll explain it all later.”

✨

There’s a frantic knocking at Shadow’s door as he opens it. Barely managing to stay upright as Sonic tackles him into a tight embrace. “I thought I lost you.” Sonic held back a sob.

“It’s alright, we’re both here in one piece.” Shadow said, letting Sonic nuzzle into his cheek with a loud purr. “The Prism?”

“Hidden far away. Made sure it was in a place only I could find it.” Sonic said with a smile. “It’s best if only I know where it is… I don’t want you anywhere near it.”

“For once, I agree.” Shadow said, pulling his partner into a kiss.

The world was put back together and the Paradox Prism was saved away from Eggman’s clutches. Now to return to a more normal routine for a while… at least normal for them.

[flowersandbirdsflyingfree]

match up submission yayy this took me an hour to type

I am 19 year old person (yes i’m a they/them, unfortunately /j) and I have dyed black hair. I plan to dye it again in the future, either red or blonde, maybe green. I have eight piercings in total, those being snake bites, a bridge piercing, a septum, and two lobes on each ear. I’m planning on getting an industrial piercing and maybe a tongue piercing. I have no tattoos because if I did wanna get one, I wouldn’t know what to get. I’m 5’10 and have a pudgy body type. As for hobbies, I’m a cosplayer and an artist mainly. I’m trying to get back into writing but so far no luck. I wear a mix of emo and mall goth fashion, and I REALLY like industrial music, some other genres but mainly industrial. I like watching tv, mainly cartoons from the 90’s and 2000’s, i would list my favourites but A) You would see a pattern and B) Most of them are really popular. I like collecting albums, the most recent in my collection being Pretty Hate Machine by Nine Inch Nails. I LOVE Postal, but some other video games I like are Team Fortress 2, Dead Rising, Most Sega IPs (mainly Jet Set Radio and Sonic) and Ape Escape. I am also autistic and have a lot more obscure special interests. I’m also Australian so whoever I get matched up with better get used to my annoying ass accent. I’m also a Taurus and I don’t know my MBTI at the moment. And that’s pretty much it!! Have a great holidays everyone!!

(I gave you so muck to work with I’m sorry 😭😭)

I am giving you your long awaited Dude for your hard earned work! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season!

Your Postal Dude is…

Postal 1 Dude

He digs your style right off the bat. He's a huge industrial head himself, often showing off his CDs and vinyl collection to you. In terms of music taste, industrial bands range from Nine Inch Nails, Chemlab and Acumen Nation to something like Terrorfakt or Unter Null. It depends on his mood.

Your accent has a charming drawl to it. He thinks it’s very attractive. He feels insecure of his voice sounding too guttural and grating , so he knows how it feels to be conscious about it. “Don’t beat yourself up. You’ve got more charm than you realize.”

Dude would 100 percent be supportive of your own industrial music should you choose to actively pursue it. He emails you a bunch of movie clips that you could use as samples.

He’s a bit jealous you can create art so wonderfully crafted. Dude tries to express himself but he feels his writing is too edgy or that his drawings are too juvenile.

It’d take some serious convincing to ever get him to cosplay anything. But he would try for you if you found something that’d match his vibe. Otherwise, you got yourself a security guard for conventions while you have fun cosplaying.

During one of his thousand yard stare episodes, you help him relax by holding his hand during the discomfort. Over time, he slowly grows more comfortable with holding onto you. Be careful: he has a tough enough grip to hug the stuffing out of you

Dude is happy to surprise you with a few records/CDs as a gift! He loves Nine Inch Nails. If he wasn’t so crowd sensitive, he would have loved to see them live with you. He also would gift your own weapon since you’re his partner in crime against evil.

He likes putting on your favorite cartoons as background noise. They have cracked a few chuckles out of him. Seeing them make you happy is a simple joy he appreciates. Courage the Cowardly Dog would be a guilty pleasure cartoon of his.

[alterchaos]

The Final Hazard

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: CHAOS CONTROL

NEXT CHAPTER: LIVE AND LEARN

cw: gun violence, death, depictions of grief and ptsd

SHAZAP!

“GAH!!”

Shadow threw the doctor to the floor before the reactor with a sharp thud, glaring at him with flaming irises.

“Bah! What is your problem now you annoying little-”

“What was that?”

“Eh?” Eggman stopped rubbing his head a moment to take in the threatening stance of the hedgehog before him, “I have no idea what you’re babbling on about!”

The hedgehog summoned a chaos spear, “Don’t play dumb with me! WHERE did you get another pod!!??”

He fired it next to the doctor’s face before summoning another one.

The doctor held his hands up in surrender, “L-Look I-I really don’t know what you’re getting at her-”

FWIP!

SHING!

“There was only supposed to be ONE pod and it got destroyed! That was why Maria and I couldn’t escape together when G.U.N. attacked!”

FWIP!

SHING!

“So I won’t ask again…WHERE DID YOU FIND ANOTHER POD AND WHY WAS IT RIGGED TO EXPLODE!!!!”

FWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIPFWIP!!!!!!!!!!

Cracks now surrounded the pristine floor around the doctor from the barrage of chaos spears. Shadow summoned another one, this time aiming for the doctor’s face.

“Tell me what you did…”

Eggman gulped, sweat dripping from his brow.

He had to find a way out of this…

Somehow…

The man smiled, “Why Shadow…I-I only wished to help get rid of those pests that threaten to put a stop to our glorious plans! W-Was that not what you wanted?”

Shadow shoved the spear closer towards the doctor’s face, causing him to yelp sheepishly, “NOT like this! What you did was inhumane!” He growled slightly.

Eggman raised an eyebrow, “Oh? And destroying an entire planet isn’t?”

“-!!?” Shadow jolted, hesitating slightly before continuing, “I-I only want their deaths to be quick and painless!”

Eggman leaned in, the spear glowing sinisterly against his goggles, “Oh? But what fun is one’s revenge without a little SUFFERING!?”

The hedgehog began to tremble, taking in his reflection against the mad doctor’s goggles, “I-I…I-It isn’t…”

Eggman stood up, now dominating the conversation as he towered over the comparatively tiny creature, “Tell me, Shadow the Hedgehog…Are you truly prepared to face all that revenge has to offer?”

“...”

“Well?”

Shadow remained silent, taking in what was being said as he watched his cousin in fear. The chaos spear dissipated from his trembling hands, his conviction wavering as he stared down the kind of monster he was to become.

The same kind of murderer that took his sister from him.

“I-I-I…”

He took a step.

Then…

SHOOOM!

The mad doctor watched as the young hedgehog fled from the scene, a smile forming across his lips.

“Too bad. I had high hopes for you, Shadow…”

A memory resurfaced in his mind, one of a distant past upon this lonely space colony. Enraged by his grandfather’s denial at his plans, he entered the room holding the escape pods, destroying all but two. One of them was set to explode should it ever be launched, a fun and twisted way to offer whichever unlucky soul should need it a false sense of hope. The other was left perfectly alone, ready for him should he need to escape himself.

Well…he certainly knew how THAT turned out, didn’t he?

“HehehehehehehAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHOHOHOHOHOOOO!!!!!”

Finally, after all these years, he would have his revenge on the world that denied his genius.

“I hope you’re watching, Papa…”

He made his way over to the control panel, placing the final emerald inside.

“...because I’m just getting started.”

—-------------------------------------------------------------------------

“N-Nnnngh…”

The hedgehog’s eyes slowly fluttered open as his mind gradually reawoke. He tried sitting up, gripping his head in his momentary stupor.

“Nnnn…W-What…”

“SONIC!!!!”

Before he had a chance to react, the fox threw himself onto his brother, hugging tightly as tears flew from his eyes. 

“T-Tails? W-Wait…What happen-”

He froze, his eyes catching sight of a figure racing in a panic across a strip of the colony beyond the window. A primal fury took over as he thought of the girl with the golden hair, his emerald irises narrowing in fury. 

This. Ended. NOW.

“Sonic? What are you-”

The hedgehog pushed himself up onto his feet, his mind now perfectly awake from the rush of adrenaline and rage coursing through him, “S-Stay here, Lil’ Bro. I’ll be right back.”

“What-”

SHOOOOM!

“SONIC WAIT!!!!”

—-------------------------------------------------------------------------

He was wrong.

He was wrong.

He had to be wrong.

Shadow didn’t know what to think anymore. He simply kept racing along, unsure where his feet were taking him as he exited the interior of the space colony. Thankfully, his lungs were created to adapt to the conditions of the space surrounding him, conditions he was sealed away from inside that capsule.

Combined with the lack of oxygen…

The lack of…anything…

It left him breathless…

Unable to generate enough oxygen to keep his mind awake…

Unable…to breathe…

Shadow gasped, unaware he’d been holding his breath as he hugged his trembling sides. 

No.

He needed to calm down…

He needed to breathe…

That was the only way he could carry out what needed to be don-

THWACK!

Shadow tumbled forward before skidding to a halt against the colony’s metal beam. Dammit! He’d been so caught up in his own mind he hadn’t been aware of the fellow hedgehog racing towards him or the swift roundhouse kick to the back of his head. He propped himself up on his arms, taking in the vengeful warrior before him.

“I-It’s you…”

Sonic continued to stare, his emerald eyes glowing menacingly even in the darkness of space.

“YOU…”

Shadow didn’t know why, but in that moment, despite his overwhelming power, he felt…afraid…

Afraid…of what this being before him could do…

“...”

Sonic stomped down a foot before taking another step, towering over the downed hedgehog.

“You hurt my friend…”

Shadow jolted, “H-Hurt? You mean that echidna?”

Sonic leapt into a spindash, forcing Shadow to teleport before he had the chance to make impact.

“Don’t play dumb…You plotted that whole act with Eggman, didn’t you?”

Another spindash.

Another dodge.

“Act? You mean that capsule?”

Sonic lunged, Shadow grabbing his hands and pushing back as he continued to plea with the rageful warrior.

“L-Listen! I-I had nothing to do with that!”

“Lies.”

Sonic spun, throwing the younger and smaller hedgehog to the side. He tumbled a bit, still dazed from his earlier panic.

“Honest! He’s insane! I never would have done that if-”

Sonic swung his fist.

Shadow ducked.

“IF!!??”

Another spindash.

This one hit.

“N-No! That’s not what I-”

It was no use though. The Hero of Mobius was beyond listening. Shadow took off, racing somewhat down the beam as Sonic followed. He lunged, the two crashing into each other a few times until the younger hedgehog, inevitably, lost his balance. He tripped, tumbling forwards as Sonic halted ahead of him, glaring vengefully at the downed hedgehog once more.

He bent down, growling as he picked him up by the scruff of white fur decorating his chest. He pulled him in close, speaking in a low tone.

“You mean ‘IF’ she hadn’t struggled? You mean to tell me you wouldn’t have thrown her against the ground ‘IF’ she’d just let you kidnap her!!? THAT YOU AND YOUR INSANE COUSIN WOULDN’T HAVE HELD A FREAKING GUN TO HER FACE IF SHE’D JUST ROLLED OVER AND TAKEN IT!!!??”

Shadow’s eyes widened.

“G-Gun…?”

What…

What had Ivo done?

Sonic growled once more before erupting, “I DON’T CARE WHAT YOU’RE AFTER OR WHAT YOU’VE BEEN THROUGH!!! SHE’S SEVEN YOU JERK!!! BARELY IN GRADE SCHOOL AND YOU PUT HER THROUGH SOMETHING LIKE THAT!!!??”

Shadow’s mouth fell agape.

“I-I-I…I-I didn’t…”

But it was too late.

Sonic reared back his fist, tears flying from his eyes as he recalled losing his home at the orphanage at a similar age, the doctor’s bombs that stole so many lives from his own. 

Shadow jolted.

“CHAOS-”

SHAZAP!

—-------------------------------------------------------------------------

The two hedgehogs tumbled across the pristine floor of the abandoned lab until they skidded to a halt. Shadow propped himself up, quickly shutting his eyes in pain as they fell for an instant on the skeleton at the far side of the room.

No.

He…couldn’t think about that right now.

N-Not when he was-

“Shit…”

He turned, catching sight of the blue hedgehog pulling a small shard of glass from a broken vial free from the upper part of his leg. He pushed himself up, limping slightly though he brushed away the pain as he turned to face the ebony hedgehog. He raised his fists, challenging the boy to a fight once more. 

Fine.

Though he wasn’t sure of what he wanted anymore, he was sure of one thing.

This guy…needed to be taken out…

Shadow summoned a few chaos spears, throwing them at the hedgehog’s direction.

Dodged.

Sonic, already behind him, leapt high into the air before curling up into another spindash. Shadow watched him as he dodged, picking up on his technique. He copied him, the two clashing in a series of quick spindashes before popping open and racing about. Shadow ran from the lab, looking for any escape from his evenly matched opponent. 

“RRRRRRRRRRGHHHHHH!!!!!!”

WHAM!

CRASH!

With one good shove, Sonic sent the smaller hedgehog careening through the door to his left. He crashed into the bookshelf lining the far wall, every volume from the top crashing down upon his head. Sonic stepped through the frame, continuing to stare down his enemy as he slowly approached. 

He had to do this.

She wouldn’t be safe until he did.

SHAZAP!

Shadow appeared behind before he could attack, kicking the hedgehog in a similar fashion from outside the colony and sending him careening. The hedgehog hit the half-empty bookshelf face-first before sliding down, the smaller creature taking this chance to run from the scene. He continued through the halls, looking for somewhere, ANYWHERE, he would be safe from this relentless foe. 

It was no use reasoning with him.

The time for that had passe-

“Did you really think you could escape the fastest being alive?”

“-!!!!??”

THWACK!

“GAH!!!”

THUD!

Shadow slid against the window of the dark and empty observation deck nearby until his body hit the floor. He gasped, raising his head as he struggled to catch his breath. He froze though as his eyes fell on it.

Earth…

But…something more…

Lights…?

His eyes widened as he recalled a distant memory.

“That’s…”

“The Aurora Borealis…”

He turned, gazing into Maria’s excited, sparkling eyes.

So full of life.

Of…hope.

Hope…that never mattered in the end.

“Maria…”

“What’s the matter, Shadow…Suddenly don’t want to fight? Afraid you’ll lose against an enemy that can actually fight back!!??”

The ebony hedgehog slowly rose to his feet.

He couldn’t run from this.

Not anymore.

“No.” His hand crackled with electric energy, “Just afraid there will be nothing left of you when I do…”

If this was the price for revenge…

“Then let’s settle this…”

“Yes…let’s…”

…then he would face these consequences with dignity…

“CHAOOOOOOS-”

…and see this through.

TAPTAPTAPTAPTAP

skiiid

“-!!!!”

“-!!!!”

Both hedgehog’s froze mid-stance, unwilling to strike as a familiar figure slid between them, arms stretched wide. 

“Eve!?”

“M-Maria…?”

She faced the blue hedgehog with bravery, her brow furrowed in determination as she stood her ground.

“RRRRRGH!!!!” Sonic swiped his hand, “GET OUT OF THE WAY, EVE!!!!”

She refused, a few small beads of sweat forming along her brow as she remained exactly as she was.

Sonic looked to the stunned hedgehog behind her, “HE’S DANGEROUS!!!! I HAVE TO FINISH THIS OR ELSE-”

“NO YOU DON’T!!!!” She stepped into his gaze once more, blocking his view of his enemy behind her, “He isn’t dangerous!!”

“YES HE IS!!! HE AND EGGMAN ARE THE REASON YOU ALMOST-”

“HE HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THAT!!!” Sonic visibly softened somewhat as confusion lined his features, “Eggman…he promised Shadow I would be safe while I was knocked out…That was why he left me in Eggman’s hands while he took care of Rouge and Knuckles!! He couldn’t have known Eggman would hurt me!!”

Shadow began to tremble, “Ivo…h-hurt you?”

He knew he was insane but…

To go that far…even for him…

Sonic growled at the other hedgehog, “WELL MAYBE HE SHOULD HAVE!!! AND THAT DOESN’T CHANGE THE FACT THAT HE HURT YOU BEFORE!!!! REMEMBER THE SCHOOLYARD!!!??”

“That was an accident!!”

“ACCIDENT OR NOT, HE STILL HURT YOU!!! HE TOOK YOU AWAY FROM YOUR HOME…YOUR FAMILY…CAN YOU REALLY FORGIVE HIM SO EASILY FOR THAT!!!??”

The girl exhaled, falling quiet a moment before looking up once more in determination.

“...Yes.”

“...”

Her gaze grew kind, “Shadow…he isn’t a bad person, Sonic! He’s just someone who’s had bad things happen to him! He’s hurt! He’s scared! That’s why he did what he did!”

A few tears threatened to sting the ebony hedgehog’s eyes, “Maria…”

Sonic’s gaze softened, though he remained on guard, “But…he’s done terrible things-”

“I DON’T CARE!!!” Sonic jolted in shock as he watched a few tears fall from the girl’s eyes in frustration. She wiped them away before continuing, “I don’t care what he’s done! Everyone deserves a second chance! Y-You…” She held a hand over her heart in remembrance, “You gave me mine and I…”

She looked up once more, now more determined than ever.

“I want him to have a chance to be happy!!”

“-!!!??”

Shadow jolted.

That’s right…

Her…words…

His…promise…

“Shadow…I beg of you…please…give everyone on Earth a chance…a chance to be happy-!”

BANG!!!

“MARIAAAA!!!!”

He gasped, burying his face in his hands at the memory.

How…

How could he have forgotten those words…

“M-Maria…”

He slid to his knees, crying out for the sister he lost that day.

“Maria…M-Maria…”

He tried wiping them away.

But no matter how hard he tried…

“Maria…”

The tears…

“M-Maria…”

They just kept pouring…

“Mari-!!??”

fomf

He jolted, his eyes flying wide as the girl with the golden hair threw herself at him, holding him tight through the endless flood of emotions. She gently stroked the back of his quills in a comforting gesture as she spoke softly.

“It’s okay, Shadow…I’m here…”

His lip trembled.

“M-M-Mari-”

No.

This wasn’t her.

No matter how hard he wished it…

…she was gone.

Forever.

…

…

Still…

Shadow buried his face deep into her shoulder, crying out as he hugged her back, his tiny body racked with sobs.

Even if she wasn’t her…

She would remain by his side until he was ready to let go.

“I’m here…”

Because in the face of such endless grief and suffering for the orphaned boy…

“Mariaaaa!!”

…that was simply the best she could do.

CHAPTER END

[cynicallyscorned]

Ship Bias!!

5 ships i'm biased about for my muse! ( accepting. )

and the #1 contender is... shocking nobody,

Sonic X Cynic.

listen. okay. when i first conceptualized cynic, I went in with absolutely no expectations when it came to ships. the goal was just to play a version of sonic that was fun to hate with a warped idea of self image and right and wrong. I was not expecting cynonic (and every variation it can come in) to be one of the main OTPs here. Tbh I didn't even care much for dupe-shipping since part of me thought it was a lil weird, and the other part just had no experience w the concept. enter my friend Jeremy, who came up with an AU sonic on the spot as I was sharing a bit of info about cynic that is basically the polar opposite to his rugged bad boi persona. a couple impromptu improv charming exchanges between them later and I was sold LMFAO. I haven't been the same since. and since then I've developed such a soft spot for the idea of this traumatized lil rat learning to become...okay with himself and who he is and come away from the darkness through Sonic's help. (frankly, sonic being such a strong influence in the other character's life in a positive way has always been one of my favorite things abt his pairings) I've adored every interaction he's had with every sonic! platonic, romantic, sibling like, enemies -- it does not matter to me. it will always fascinate me and I will always get a kick out of writing this guy's complicated and messy feelings abt his alternates because it's always so unique every time.

Shadow X Cynic.

I'LL BE REAL CHIEF. the OG plan was so far away from this pairing. I came up with cynic during a period where sonadow had been a bit soured for me due to bad rp experiences. part of the way I established cynic and his dynamic with his own shadow from his dimension was a little influenced by this fact. WITH THAT SAID - I've been completely sold on the pairing I have going with seiko's shadow (@somewhereinchaos) because it's like a completely different spin on sonadow. at first it just seems like two edgy moody assholes that somehow get along but then the nuance and actual sonadow undertones start coming out as their relationship develops. cynic and shadow are quite similar and they find comradery in their shared grievances with the world - yet at the same time also have strongly different personalities and they manage to strike an unexpected balance of lifting each other up and leaning on one another for support. I love that cynic brings out a soft and emotionally consoling side of seiko's shadow that had nearly been forgotten, while shadow brings out more of the heart and passion that makes cynic A sonic! its so fascinating... their relationship has also made me fall in love with sonadow all over again and I just care them so very much. 🙏

Scourge X Cynic.

You are strongly responsible for this brainrot turning into a full fledged otp because I was not prepared for how much these two would have me in a choke hold HDGLJ. like, I already knew cynic would think scourge is cool, that he'd have a person crush on him. I've said before while describing him that cynic is of a similar concept to scourge if he just never changed his identity. radical differences aside, they both understand what it feels like to be told (indirectly or otherwise) that they are inherently wrong and their version of 'sonic-ing' is bad. but where cynic desperately clings onto his identity as sonic with a struggling grip, scourge cast that life aside and became something bigger. that suggestion is so dangerously tempting to cynic as it is painfully relatable, to embrace your worst side because it's 'all you'll ever be.' BUT BESIDES ALL THAT - it ALSO is in a hilarious yet tragic way, a dark spin on cynonic. scourge has all the personality traits of sonic that pull you in, make you wanna like him, which is.. infectious to cynic. they are doomed by the narrative but you still can't help but go 'aww' when scourge gets cynic to laugh or when they riff off each other in their dumb competitive natures.

Surge x Cynic.

THIS ONE CAME COMPLETELY OUT OF LEFT FIELD FOR ME BUT I AM NORMAL. ok, maybe not normal. I haven't caught up on IDW since reading the first issue for imposter syndrome so there's stuff I'm missing here -- but the bottom line is @synnrrgy's surge has wormed her way into cynic's tiny little brain and he is down bad. they somehow bonded through beating the shit out of each other and sharing that same brash attitude, not to mention their mutual dislike for sonic and feeling the inferiority complex. they are the kind of pairing where one part of the ship is always pushing each other's buttons and vice versa but still can bond over doing dumb and reckless shit. what's more, cynic is hopelessly drawn to dysfunction, and still has that deep seeded ache to help people deep down. the situation surge is in with starline aches my HEART because it seriously brings out the desperation cynic has to protect the ppl he cares about, making him pull a complete 180 to the closed off and aloof demeanor he usually has. and the memory loss.. augh. I love me a good angsty antag pair that motivates one part of ship to try to be the 'hero'

Blaze x Cynic.

THIS ONE.. KINDA JUST HAPPENED and it's not exactly the setting you'd expect either. in the TBC au ive mentioned dozens of times on this blog, cynic who is a misunderstood outcast at school develops a crush on @warraigoe 's blaze, and due to tragic circumstances leads to them both being put in a position where they have to sorta set aside any growing feelings so they can prioritize 'leading' the one standing force against CHORUS tech. blaze is both cynic's rock and also someone he trusts to watch his back, but she is also nearing dangerously close to hosting age (essentially when a teenager comes of age and falls victim to the brainwashing hive mind psychic force known as the Song. it's like an invisible illness that comes for almost everyone at some point in this verse) and so cynic is deeply afraid of losing her too. it's another very doomed by the narrative pairing and it's their softer moments with each other that just makes all the upsetting things that end up happening to them hit even harder. in another life they are happier and able to maybe get a chance to actually enjoy each other's time without the threat of inescapable doom bearing down on them...

[lightningblade1994-blog]

Sonic the Hedgehog/Kung Fu Panda Mash-Up 4 {For © KatarinaTheCat} [Collab by © Lightninblade1994]

Viola Ruma: What do we do now, Brother Andrew? With the boy now gone, who will stop Lancelot?

Andrew: All we can do is resume our training and trust that in time, the real hero of Ebon will be revealed. [Andrew opens the courtyard doors, only to find himself face-to- face with Sonic's quills. Andrew and his monks are taken aback.]

Andrew: What are you doing here?! [Sonic is in the middle of the courtyard, his legs spread wide apart on two training horses. Sonic looks back over his shoulder to see Andrew and the monks staring at him.]

Sonic: Hey! Huh... Good morning, Andy! I just thought I'd warm up a little. [He tries to lift one leg, but fails.]

Andrew: You're stuck.

Sonic: Stuck?! Whaa? Pfft... stuck... does this look stuck to you... Yeah, I'm stuck.

Andrew:[To Bill] Help him.

Bill: Oh dear. [Bill approaches, gingerly grabs Sonic by the his tail and attempts to pull him up by using a bit of his strength.]

Sonic: Maybe on three. One. Two- [Bill pulls him up and Sonic lands back onto his feet.]

Sonic: Thanks ^^

Bill: Don't mention it.

Sonic: No really, I appreci—

Bill: EVER. [Sonic remains silent as Bill returns to stand by the group.]

Andrew: You'd actually thought you could learn to do a full split in just one night? It takes years to develop one's flexibility... [Andrew flings two boards into the air, and Patty steps forwards.] and years longer to apply it in combat. [Andrew snaps his fingers. Instantly, Patty leaps up and executes a perfect split kick. Sonic becomes awestruck. Patty lands, glares at Sonic and returns to Andrew's side. The broken chunks of board land all around Sonic as he dodges, a large one knocking him onto his chest. Sonic picks up the piece of splintered board and hides it behind his back.]

Andrew: Put that down! The only souvenirs we collect here are bloody knuckles and broken bones.

Sonic: Yeah, excellent! [He chucks away the chunk.]

Andrew: Let's get started. [Andrew snaps his fingers. Andrew's acolytes all gather in a line in the courtyard and Viola and Sonic face off.]

Viola Ruma: Are you ready?

Sonic: I was born ready— [Viola Ruma lashes out with her right leg, pushes Sonic onto the ground and brings him crashing back down on his lower back.]

Sonic: OW! Oh...

Viola Ruma: I'm sorry, kiddo! I thought you said you were ready!

Sonic: That was awesome! Let's go again. [salutes][Irritated, Andrew snaps. Bill twirls a bamboo staff. He lunges at Sonic (also wielding a staff) who takes a comical beating. Sonic and the Griffin prepare to spar atop the turtle bowl. CRASH. Sonic falls in and is tossed around like a sack of soup. The Griffin hovers above the bowl and looks to Andrew. Agitated, Andrew snaps. At this time, the sun is setting. We see a series of shots of Sonic falling onto his back at the work of some invisible opponent, who turns out to be... Genai. Andrew smiles. Flat on his back, Sonic manages a salute. This time, Andrew has had it.]

Andrew: I've been taking it easy on you, hedgehog, but no more! Your next opponent... will be me.

Sonic: Alright! Yeah, let's go! [The monks exchange worried looks. Sonic and Andrew face off.]

Andrew: Step forth. [Sonic doesn't even finish the step as Andrew whirls him around with no effort and and bounces him onto the floor holding him into a ball like shape.]

Andrew: The true path to victory is to find your opponent's weakness and make him suffer for it.

Sonic:[In pain, but delighted.] Oh ho, yeah! [Andrew tosses Sonic around again.]

Andrew: To take his strength and use it against him. [Sonic bounces Sonic repeatedly on the ground. He then tosses him onto the ground again, and grips Sonic with both his hands.] Until he finally falls, or quits. [Sonic feels totally inspired.]

Sonic:[muffled] But a true hero never quits. Don't worry, Brother Andrew, I won't give up, no matter what! [At his breaking point, Andrew flings Sonic into the air and then leaps at him with a flying kick. Sonic crashes out of the door and tumbles down the steps. The monks walk outside and watch him fall.]

Patty: If he's that smart, he won't even bother to come back up those steps.

Bill: But, he will.

Viola Ruma: He's not gonna quit, is he?

Genai: He's not gonna quit bouncin', I'll tell ya that.

[thenextchapterbegins]

Dark earths zodiac

The Bat

Creature of the halflight, you fly along the line of the brink, the almost-- the bat zodiac embodies the inbetween. They are often considered strange by their peers, but in the right setting their feeling of discomfort fades and they become a unique voice. Those under the sign of the bat tend towards anxiety, longing to live unwitnessed-- the bat is most comfortable in the dark, but not alone; this sign craves to exist without judgement. They tend to become lost in their thoughts, their own worlds, to the extent that they can forget to engage with the world around them. But those who love the bat know that they will always return. For all their shadows, the bat actively seeks to be compassionate. Having themselves felt both the harsh sear of the sun and the lonely chill of the moon, they find themselves able to sympathize with almost anyone.

And so you push through the hanging vines and into the sun. It is strange and open without the undergrowth, quiet without the birds. Will you say something to the forest before you go? Will you leave it one last secret? One last love? Or has it taken enough? The trees are silent.

one last secret

"When giaia was defeated. When the earth was put whole, it took weeks to discover all the damage caused. cities and nations erased...millions upon millions dead...all the while i quipped, i joked. it was just another adventure. Another puzzle...fight the bad guys win the day. Their is still rebuilding, when i walked the streets, when i saw parents cry in graves, when i saw children mourn their parents all who were taken too soon. “

“I saw the memorials..everyday is just another day of putting back the pieces....but you can still see it when i look at them, they look at me. Their is a horror in our eyes and a profound sadness....we survived something so terrible...i knew. After that, i had to change. I couldnt just let things happen, i couldnt just joke..sometimes people need to be stopped, they need to be laid to the ground and made sure something like that never happens again. That the fear and weight of their consequences is put to them, if they cant be made to see reason..then you must strike so hard they can never stand again. Some would say i've grown jaded...turned my back on the princples i have laid out always. “

“ I say that they would let something like this happen again just to hold onto fragile morals..morals mean nothing if millions have to die for them to be held...i was wrong, and strangely..my rival  who i had seen as brutal, cruel..maybe sometimes a villain. That they were right...sometimes force, sometimes...revenge is the right path...and honestly now they might be able to guide me on who to...strike hard when needed but still restrain yourself from falling darker down a hole...because its hard now.”

“ Hard to just give up. To make sure nothing like this could ever happen again. To let the darkness fuel to put the fear of god in anyone that could claim to want to destroy or hold the earth in their grip. But i also know, i know now that if i did that. I would become like them...the only thing i truly fear though.”

 “Is losing my friends, i still smile, i still quip to them..but im not like that really anymore, it feels like lying in a way...or maybe im just using it to act normal, to feel like i used to feel. I dont know...its so complicated now."

{ mun note, using sonic unleashed as a backdrop to my lore has been very fun because whilst the game is VERY SILLY if u take it with a serious lens it honestly becomes a horror game in a way and i think taking seriously could fundemtnally change sonic and thats what i’ve done.}

[shadowlycan]

Nine watched as Belle created some course for Sonic with a flick of her finger. It seemed similar to Emerald Hill, but different. Maybe a location from one of their adventures.

Sonic began saying things, only to give a question,’ what did you do to my shoes, Nine’.

Nine stepped back. It was one thing to call him by his real name. It was another to call him by his chosen.

‘I fixed them. They were burning up,’ Nine answered, annoyed.

‘I know that. I am asking what exactly you did. By chance did you remove energy,’ Sonic explained.

Nine looked up at the hedgehog. He had to be joking. His shoes having all that energy sources had to be the problem yet somewhere he worried why. Why did Sonic say Chaos Control expecting something to occur? Why was Sonic looking at him with pity now?

‘Look, kid. I get it. Don’t do that again. Got it. Ask me about what you are worried about,’ Sonic replied.

Nine was the genius here, not him. He had asked him to fix his shoes. What was Sonic expecting?

‘Belle, tell the kid some stories of your or own adventures while I run around for a bit. I want to make sure I understand what I’ve dealing with, here. Knowing the fact we have demonstrated you won’t tell me,’ Sonic informed before dashing off.

Nine watched in awe, seeing the blue hedgehog seem to become a blue blur.

‘One of Sonic’s many titles across the multiverse, the blue blur. There are other things, of course. He commonly calls himself the fastest thing alive across the multiverse. Our Sonic hasn’t really bothered with such titles. I have no idea why. Sure he will remind Ivo of course but that has always been different,’ Belle commented.

‘Do I have titles?’ Nine asked.

‘Sonic’s best friend normally. Of course in the universes that you saved Station Square in. You are considered the hero of Station Square. People commonly call you a genius given your achievements. All things considered creating a fake chaos emerald has and always will be impressive,’ Belle answered.

He turned away. Nine felt something gripping at his memory. Something trying to scream at him. Just another bad memory, just another reminder of the pathetic fox he used to be.

‘Nine, did one of the Chaos Council look for the chaos emeralds on your island?’ Belle asked.

‘They already had power across the world. Why bother? Those emeralds are myth. They knew they had enough…,’ Nine began.

‘My Eggman sought after the chaos emeralds. Why would they be any different? They are all greedy at heart, all desiring to spread and enforce their empire. The chaos emeralds of my world offer unlimited power. Something they would desire. I know you’re lying. They may be myth, but you must’ve seen their power. As Tikal once said, the chaos emeralds are enriched by the heart. It does not matter if good or evil,’ Belle interrupted.

‘Are we looking to go on a treasure hunt for mythical emeralds with limitless power?’ Nine asked, annoyed.

Belle groaned. She quite preferred the Nine in that show than this one.

‘No, moron. I have enough chaos energy to power this entire city for centuries. It would be foolish,’ Belle replied, anger dripping in her voice.

Sonic raced up to a building. A building that brought him to freeze in place. They stood there with victim after victim protecting them. Each robot was crushed, only to have one of their leaders approach him. He longed to scream. It was a nightmare. Sonic watched this monster die. He watched her so called brother mourn her.

‘Your speed is amazing. I only wish Project Blur succeed. We could give you someone to train with. It doesn’t matter. You’re one of them and we know what to do with your kind,’ Sonia announced.

‘I am Project Blur, Sonia. Trust me when I say you shall fall once again alongside the Chaos Council. I became immune to that trick a long time ago,’ Sonic replied, making his status clear.

Sonia laughed only to watch each of her so called weapons fall. A hand gripped onto a green hedgehog’s neck. He hated the idea that this was his family, despised the fact their mother never considered them special despite their heritage. They were weapons, weapons like Nine could be if Sonia got her hands on him.

‘You touch my two tailed fox and he shall die. Got it, sis,’ Sonic threatened.

[six-improbable-things]

A heartbreaking, but very fun to RP and write, argument between Rook and the party wizard after finding out that Rook's beloved mentor was actually a corpse being controlled by the BBEG, and the wizard knew the whole time. Oh, and just seconds after watching the wizard violently "murder" said mentor. Like, tear into him with his bare claws and teeth, and then shatter all his bones with a sonic shock wave. :)

(for a bit of context, Kroko was the island where Rook got possessed and very narrowly killed Maka. He only survived because the archfey inhabiting his body intervened.)

[as per usual, transcript under the cut]

Rook turned aside and vomited, collapsing to his knees. The world around him blurred. He was vaguely aware of the others moving in the distance, talking in quiet voices. His breath came in heaving pants as he tried to grip onto the rough stone floor.

Footsteps, and a figure appeared at his side. “Are you okay?” 

Maka. Rage flooded Rook’s mind. Without turning to look at him, he spat “Get the fuck away from me.” His voice came out broken and rough.

Maka ignored him and pushed ahead. “Rook, I’m sorry if my actions of keeping quiet has hurt you. But I did it because I didn’t want to get us killed. I wanted all of us to stay alive. The more time he was with us, the less time the Children were being our enemies.”

As Maka spoke, rage built up Rook’s body. Hot, white, blinding rage that filled his vision and mind until he couldn’t think of anything else. He hated Maka, perhaps more than he had ever hated anyone in his life. 

Drawing his rapier, he turned to face him. “The more time he was with us. The more time he was with us?” Rook spat the words, venom filling his voice. “So you were just going to let that happen. To let Dr.-” His voice broke, but he plunged onwards. “To let him spend time with us. To let him spend time with me.”

Maka raised his hands. “I didn’t want us to die. Any of us.”

“You could have gotten rid of him. Told him to leave. Told us the truth.”

“And if I had? The Children would have been our enemies. Would have killed us.”

Rook shook his head. “You should have told us the truth.” He took a few steps forwards, driving Maka back with his rapier. “You hid that from us. That he was-” Again, his voice caught in his throat, unable to say the damning words. “You should have told me.”

“I wanted to protect you. All of you.”Rook cut him off, pushing him back further with his rapier. “You call that protecting us? You call this protecting us?” He spat at Maka’s feet. “Fuck you. I wish you’d died back on Kroko.”