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tenebraevesper · 3 months

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Shadow the Hedgehog (Sonic Prime, Character Analysis - Part 3)

Welcome back to Part 3 of my character analysis, now focusing not only on Shadow, but also on Sonic! This part will be only covering the second half of Episode 09: Avoid the Void, as there is a lot to talk about. I had also realized that I probably could've just breezed through the episode, but instead, I had the urge to put these two hedgehogs under a microscope because they are so fascinating to talk about.

Let's dive in!

After realizing just how bad the consequences of his actions were and how Ghost Hill came to be, Sonic wonders how he should fix things. Shadow just sighs and tells Sonic to follow him, leading him back to the cave where the Paradox Prism was.

The first thing to note here is Sonic's body language as they arrive at the cave. At first, he seems to be ready to confront whatever is awaiting him, only for his expression to fall and he seems to be a bit lost in his thoughts, clearly reluctant to enter the cave. He understands what he had done and he is not ready to confront his past actions... at least, not until Shadow calls his name.

''Sonic!''

Shadow doesn't sound angry in this scene. It is more as if he's just trying to draw Sonic's attention to get him to move. I'm certain that Sonic would've stood in front of the cave for ages before even going inside, probably trying to come up with some excuse not to have to do this.

We see Sonic being quite unsure of this, holding his arm in comfort as he approaches the cave slowly, with Shadow patiently waiting for him. He clearly doesn't want to be here, especially since he doesn't know what to expect.

As Sonic walks into the cave, we also see Shadow briefly glancing at Sonic's shoes, which are reacting to the remaining Shard of the Paradox Prism, which is just more foreshadowing for what is about to happen.

Shadow then turns his gaze back to Sonic, who stares in grief at the lone Paradox Prism Shard within the cave, joining him a moment later. I think there is something quite telling about this scene. Shadow actually gives Sonic a moment to process everything, leaving him to contemplate in silence. There are no comments, no fighting, nothing... just silence. I do have a bit more to say about this moment, but I will leave those thoughts for a scene in Episode 17: Grim Tidings.

''I would do anything to be back...'' ''Home.'' *pauses* ''There is a chance.''

After Sonic has a flashback to the moment he shattered the Paradox Prism, he wishes for nothing more but to be back... home, as Shadow finishes for him. I do love that Shadow is the one who says ''Home'' here, showing not only that he understands Sonic's grief, but again, he acknowledges Green Hill as his own home as well. He then slightly lowers his gaze, having a contemplative look, before telling Sonic that there is a chance.

One thing I love about Shadow here is how he actually gives Sonic hope that there is a way to fix things. He doesn't just confront him with the harsh reality, but is also very patient with him, giving him time to process things, before explaining that there is indeed a way to fix things.

The two then dash to the Ghost Paradox Prism, with Shadow explaining how every Shattespace contains a Shard, creating a distorted version of their reality, meaning that the Shard in Ghost Hill is the real one.

''Exactly.'' *Sonic slowly reaches for the Shard* ''Don't!'' ''I wasn't going to touch it! I was just pointing at it to tell you not to touch it!''

Honestly, this little exchange had me chuckling. Once again, Shadow knows Sonic too well, just closing his eyes and moving on, not even caring about Sonic's lame excuse.

Instead, he reveals his plan to Sonic, pointing out how the Ghost Paradox Prism shows them how the other Shards need to be placed and that bringing them together would fix their reality, with Sonic interrupting him, agreeing that this plan would work.

Note Shadow's expression here as Sonic starts speaking. He is frowning and gritting his teeth. I may have had said that Shadow was probably on the fence on whether to let Sonic help him, but I think that in this moment, especially when Sonic starts talking about Nine, he has made the decision to find the Shards on his own.

''No!'' ''No?'' ''No!'' ''Why 'No'? I just said he's like super smart.'' ''He can't be trusted.'' ''What are you talking about? Of course he can! He's just like Tails! He's just a little... angsty, that's all.'' ''No, he's not Tails. He's Nine, and they're not your real friends!'' ''Dude, he's real! This is his reality! And you know what else is real? Nine's tech on my kicks and punching sticks. So back up off Nine!'' *growls*

Honestly, there is a lot to say about this dialogue. First of all, while Sonic defending Nine is very admirable, Shadow isn't wrong in saying that Nine is not Tails, nor that he is real. From a logical standpoint, Nine really is not Tails, but his own person. He is Nine, and he was created as a Shatterspace Variation of Tails' personality, the part of him that seeks emotional validation. Shadow understands that, but Sonic does have a point that Nine is indeed real, although Nine would be real in the sense that his existence is tied to the New Yoke Shatterverse.

Also, note how Shadow doesn't continue the argument, just growling in frustration when he sees that Sonic has his mind set on Nine being just like his Tails. The conversation then continues.

*sighs* ''Okay, look, what matters now is that I get the Shards. I'll bring them back here, and then we-'' ''That's not the plan.'' ''Dude, not the plan? I'm totally confused. I thought a moment ago you said-'' ''Sonic, you literally broke our world. Why would I trust you to do anything?'' ''Okay, I can see how you might think that-'' *gets knocked back by Shadow, hitting a wall* ''Ugh.'' ''Your turn is over. I'm taking the tech and I'm going after the Shards myself.'' ''No way Shadow! I know what you're capable of and that's not gonna happen! Nine and all the rest of them are real! So the only way you're taking my tech is over my dead-'' *gets attacked by Shadow into a wall, groans in pain* ''You could've at let me finish what I was going to say!''

Now, there is a lot to unpack here, especially when it comes to Shadow. He now believes that Sonic cannot be trusted with gathering the Shards, making it his personal mission to do it himself. I don't think his lack of trust in Sonic's abilities is just because of Sonic shattering the Paradox Prism, but also because of Sonic's trust in Nine, a person Shadow is clearly paranoid about.

Sonic protests, and his words ''I know what you're capable of'' hold a lot of weight when you know Shadow's backstory. Sonic is not just saying that he knows that Shadow would beat up anyone who stands in his way, but pointing reminding both himself and the audience that, if Shadow is motivated enough, he's capable of destroying the world.

He then gets interrupted by Shadow, who doesn't even talk back. This is another aspect of Shadow's character, as once he is done with all the explanations, he is all business and once he is focused on a mission, he has no time for small talk. If Sonic wants to stop him, he will have to fight.

What follows next is one of the best fights of Sonic Prime, and you can't change my mind about that. I will highlight some moments of the fight, because you can actually see that there is some strategy behind it.

''That's one! Three to go.'' *puts tech on his hand* ''Want it back? Come and get it!''

When Shadow gets punched by Sonic, he actually manages to bite the tech off his hand, which is actually genius. Not only that, but he actually is the one to start goading Sonic into fighting him. During their last fight, Shadow was mostly silent, trying to stop Sonic, but now? Now he's going all out.

As a matter of fact, you can actually see him smile several times during the fight as he baits Sonic into attacking him and dodges his moves. It is very brief, but it shows another side of Shadow - he enjoys fighting Sonic, and from what we have seen earlier in the show, Sonic also enjoys fighting Shadow.

There is a reason why Sonic has called him his biggest rival, several reasons in fact. Shadow is the only one who can keep up with Sonic, both in speed and fighting skills, and both enjoy fighting each other (whether the fate of the world is at stake or not). In short, he and Sonic aren't that different, and I will explain that in a moment, but let's just enjoy these two beating each other up.

If you know Shadow, you will know that this pose is a reference.

Drowning selfie!

Anyways, to recap what happened until now, Sonic chases Shadow to the beach, where Shadow manages to get two more pieces of his tech, before throwing him into the water (Sonic's weakness, as he cannot swim) and then grabbing the fourth piece of the tech. As Shadow swims away, Sonic manages to grab the tech on Shadow's shoes, something Shadow doesn't notice.

He is about to walk away, when Sonic shows off the tech he snagged away, much to Shadow's shock. *chuckles* Dude, you're really underestimating your rival!

Honestly, I just love how expressive Shadow gets during the fight. He is always seen with a scowl, but now we see a wider range of expressions and emotions from him, and it is glorious.

The fight continues, and we even get a scene of Shadow using Sonic as a surfing board (Sonic Riders reference?), and it is just fun following these two in their high-speed chase. Shadow eventually manages to get back the tech pieces from Sonic, putting the last one on with quite a lot of flair (I wish I could post the screenshots of that, but again, Tumblr has a limit of how many images you can put in one post).

*breathes heavily* ''One left... Come at me, bro!'' ''Nah, I'm good.'' *shows off stolen tech* ''Huh?! No!'' ''So long, Sonic! See you back home.''

I absolutely love this scene! Shadow doesn't just leave, but stays for a moment to rub it into Sonic's face that he won. It is so hilarious, but also so in character! Shadow can have fun when he wants to, although this usually involves Sonic in some form *hears the Sonadow fans screaming in glee* *stares at the rest of the audience* What, I am right, aren't I? Did you see him act like this around anyone else (in Sonic Prime, I'm not talking about the games)?

This is then followed by a chase between Sonic and Shadow, with Sonic having a hard time to control the Paradox Prism energy without the tech, and Shadow...

Look at that grin! Shadow is a smug bastard and he knows it! We also love him for that!

With Shadow escaping Ghost Hill, Sonic is left behind... until he has a moment where he remembers what Shadow told him previously about his Prism Energy and being able to create portals - proof that Sonic actually did listen to Shadow! Elated, Sonic uses it to escape into The Void, where he tackles Shadow and their fight continues, with both of them having to avoid the crystals falling around.

''Come at me, bro.''

It is repeated in monotone, but I do love that Shadow actually mocks Sonic with his own words. He is more than willing to continue this fight. However, it is cut short when they get to the New Yoke gateway and spot the Chaos Council flying into Boscage Maze with their fleet of ships. Shadow follows them, but unlike Sonic, he still cannot get through the gateways.

Man, that looks painful, and what follows is even worse, because Shadow is sent flying into the black hole below, much to Sonic's horror.

Sonic is horrified, not just because Shadow is about to die, but he also probably has a flashback to what happened in Sonic Adventure 2, when Shadow was left flying towards Earth and Sonic was unable to save him. However, this time, Sonic won't repeat the same mistake.

This time, he manages to save him (and the Sonadow fans go wild!).

''You're not dead. You're welcome! On the bright side, I'll get to hold this over you foreeeever. Oh, and I'll take my tech back.''

Now, it's Sonic's turn to be a smug bastard. Do you now understand why these two aren't too different from each other?

Shadow replies how he doesn't understand, as he thought that the tech would allow him to go through gateways... and then he realizes that it's not the tech - it's Sonic.

''The only way to fix the reality you shattered is if we... work... together.'' ''Together!'' *groans* ''Wow! Coming from you that's, well, not like you at all. Man, you must really hate having to admit that you need me.'' ''You need me!'' ''Sure, I'm big enough to admit that. But, not as much as you need me.''

Honestly, their banter is just as hilarious as it's cute. Shadow genuinely looks like he's in emotional pain when he says that he has to work together with Sonic, and Sonic is not just surprised, but also is very happy to hear that from Shadow. Shadow then points out that Sonic needs him, with Sonic getting the last word in in their banter as he leaps to get to Boscage Maze.

Sonic's grin and Shadow's little nod here say more than a thousand words. To me, it seemed that Sonic was actually seeking a bit of validation from Shadow, something to make it clear that Shadow trusts him now and that they will work closely together from now on, with Shadow nodding in agreement. It is such a small, yet powerful moment, showing us that Shadow has finally come around to rely on Sonic's help. Sure, he had to be knocked out to realize that, but what would Shadow be without his stubborness.

Sonic is now set, having Shadow as a powerful ally and watching over him.

This was an amazing showcasing of Sonic and Shadow's relationship, and my conclusion by the end of it is this:

Sonic and Shadow complement each other.

*hears cries of joy* Calm down Sonadow shippers, I'm done yet with this statement.

If you know the process of creation of Shadow's character, you have probably heard that Shadow was supposed to be a darker reflection of Sonic (his previous name was Terios, which means ''reflection of''). These two are two sides of the same coin, with Sonic representing the more carefree and freedom-seeking side, while Shadow is the more grim and focused side. Both want to protect the world, but often clash due to their differing methods.

However, while they don't work often together, when they do, they work really well together.

You have seen in this very episode that Sonic, even though he had a plan, he was very unfocused and has a hard time listening to people. So, when does he get focused? It is when Shadow knocks some sense into him, confronting him with the harsh reality of their situation, but also giving him some hope that they can fix their reality. Even in previous episodes, we saw that Sonic's friends, be it the Green Hill crew or the Shatterverse Variants, had a hard time to get him to listen, but with Shadow, it's different. He knows how to treat Sonic and what to tell him and it's beautiful to see.

Both Sonic and Shadow were right in their conversation. They need each other, because alone, they won't be able to save the Shatterverse and Ghost Hill. However, they are just in the middle stage of their developing relationship and it'll be an uphill battle for them to finally work together properly.

It is also one of the many reasons people love the Sonadow ship so much. No matter their differences, they are very much alike and it just takes them to open up a little to acknowledge that.

Also, the moment I saw this episode, I made a Sonadow AMV, with the song being Vandalize by One OK Rock, aka the song from Sonic Frontiers (click on the link provided to watch it). Seriously, you can't tell me that that isn't a Sonadow song. Enjoy!

Anyways, I'll see you in Part 4, which will (hopefully) cover the other seven episodes of Part 2 of the Sonic Prime (I refuse to call 8 episodes a Season no matter what Netflix says).

#Shadow the Hedgehog (Sonic Prime, Character Analysis - Part 2)

#Shadow the Hedgehog (Sonic Prime, Character Analysis - Part 4)

#Sonic the Hedgehog Analyzer (Masterlist)

#Ten's Thoughts #sonic prime #shadow the hedgehog #sonic the hedgehog #sonadow #sonadow prime

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shadowxamyweek · 7 months

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How do you guys feel about Silver being your son? I mean, Shadow lives forever, so I could definitely see Shadow having Silver. And then Silver could inherit his kindness and naivety from Amy...

But overall, what are YOUR opinions on that thought? And do you think Amy would be a "Momma Bear"?

Amy: It's weird- you're not the first person to ask about that here. Hope you don't mind that we just sort of, you know, address this all at once. Shadow: ...Silver is from 200 years in the future. Amy: That's the thing you respond with? Shadow: It- it's the most logical and irrefutable piece of evidence we have! Amy: Shadow, if time travel is real, then it doesn't matter where we think he's from. For all we know, he could be from 1,000 years in the future, 2,000 years in the past, or from present day. 200 years ahead of our time is just where he calls home and where he says he's from. Shadow: ... Okay? Amy: So I'm a bit more concerned as to why people think he's *our* child. *Ours*. Shadow: ... (⊙_⊙) Amy: Yeah, okay, now you get it. Shadow: He... but... what... no... wait... Amy: Wow, alright, you might have broken him. Shadow: (＠_＠);;; Amy: While Shadow processes that, I'll address the rest of what you wrote. We don't actually know for sure if Shadow *will* live forever. Part of the goal Robotnik had, based on what we've been able to find and what Shadow has been comfortable sharing, was immortality. There's no way to know if that goal has been achieved with Shadow. Like, Shadow's been through a lot, the fall to Earth from the ARK being one of them, don't get me wrong. *Amy shudders.* Amy: But, not to downplay that, Sonic has been through similar things and has survived. Heck, look at what we all went through on the Starfall Islands. So to automatically assume that Shadow is going to live forever might not be... might not be correct. I'm not going to lie... I kinda hope that's wrong, just because of, um... how he talked about it... that one time... anyway. *Amy clears her throat* Amy: As to the rest though, I know Rouge has joked that Silver follows Shadow around like a little lost duckling. Heck, I've even noticed Silver starting to act like Shadow sometimes. That's probably because Shadow is weirdly patient with Silver. Like, no matter what happens, Shadow never loses his cool with the guy, answers all his questions, is always willing to help. Shadow is... for all intents and purposes... kinda... you know what nevermind Shadow has absolutely taken up the role of being Silver's dad. Shadow: Σ(O_O) Amy: I mean you have! Shadow: We're practically the same age! ლ(ಠ_ಠ ლ) Amy: Doesn't matter. You are absolutely being a dad-friend to Silver. You are his dad in spirit. Shadow: ...(ᓀ ᓀ) Amy: You're not denying it. Shadow: You're implicating yourself in this, you know that. Amy: *How?* Shadow: If I fit the parameters of 'dad-friend,' then you are absolutely his 'mom-friend.' Amy: That- that's not the same! I'm nice to everyone! Shadow: Different types of nice. You are not nice to everyone like you are nice to Silver. Amy: No, wait, come on. No- Shadow: And to their point of 'mama-bear,' do I need to remind you about what happened at the sandwich shop last month? Amy: No... Shadow: The question was rhetorical. Amy: Shadow-! Shadow: Silver picked a meal that would give him pickles, since he loves pickles, and when failed to get any, you took it upon yourself to march up to the counter and not only *ask* for the pickles he was supposed to get, but then *demanded* he get extra! Amy: He wanted pickles! Shadow: I had already given him mine! *Amy points accusingly* Amy: Dad-friend. Dad-friend behavior right there. Shadow: STOP IT!

#amy rose #shadow the hedgehog #silver the hedgehog #shadamy #(a little bit ;) )#AskAmy #AskShadow #sonic #sega #sth #riyhartsalot #ask #(I did get your ask about this before and had been slowcooking this answer- honestly glad you sent it in again with extra details)#(This was a lot of fun to answer XD)#kid silver #headcanon #SonicCharacterAsk

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sonicfandomsecretsanta · 4 months

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@l-sincline submitted:

Hi @w0lp3rtinger !!! I was so excited to see your name in my inbox lol. I ended up going for a double whammy since I couldn’t help but also write something to go along with what I was thinking while I was drawing… I hope you have an amazing rest of 2023 and an even better 2024!

For one to sleep as deeply as Amy Rose did that night, you had to be up to some serious shenanigans earlier that day. And perhaps she had been. At least, that’s what she kept telling herself they were.

Time and time again she was thrown into danger for the sake of her fellow Mobians, it was a choice she made willingly- right? And yet, sometimes she doubted herself. It would all come crashing back to her, those memories of being a young girl. To be completely honest these days she couldn’t even quite say why she’d become as enamored with Sonic as she had been, it all seemed so distant. He was handsome, sure, but there were plenty of handsome guys out there- plenty that she had fawned over through screens and pages. Perhaps it was that Sonic was tangible. While those stars strutted runways and movie sets and imaginary fantasy lands, Sonic was right in front of her. Even if he was annoyed, even if he was doing his best to disregard her, he was still there– talking to her, listening to her, responding to her.

A younger her must’ve gotten her emotions overwhelmed to have all of that so suddenly all at once. She could only sooth her younger self and say she understood, but she could never completely stop herself from cringing when one of her friends jokingly brought up her old habits.

And that led to today. As of late she’d felt utterly exhausted– could Eggman really never take a vacation? Early morning after early morning, going out with her friends and cleaning up his messes for hours on end. Tails said he must have some big scheme planned. She wasn’t even sure how long this had been going on for– what could Eggman possibly be scheming that would take that long?

It was wearing on her. She felt ragged most nights, too tired to even hop in the shower after a debrief. She’d come home, throw down her bag, kick off her shoes, and plop face first into bed for a night of dreamless sleep. Then she’d get woken from that deep sleep to do it all again. Today it left her feeling particularly woozy.

“You’re not looking great.” Shadow had commented, arms crossed over his chest.

Amy leaned tiredly on the stick of her hammer, watching Sonic and Tails argue back and forth about something. The whole room had been filled with a sort of overwhelming noise from everyone breaking into their own conversations, she hadn’t even noticed Shadow sneak up next to her. Amy sighed,

“I don’t feel so great either.” She confirmed. Shadow hummed.

“Too much fighting? Maybe you should stay back and play command desk for a day or two.”

“It’s not just that…” She admitted awkwardly. Glancing over to the side, she saw Shadow had turned more to look at her.

“Then what?”

She paused for a moment before speaking again, “It’s nothing. I shouldn’t have brought it up.”

“If it’s bothering you, you should talk about it to get it off your mind.”

She laughed, sometimes Shadow seemed to have a fair amount of wisdom when he wasn’t being stand offish. It seemed she had caught him on a good day. Finally, she sighed again.

“I’ve just been thinking about all this lately and it… I don’t know… bugs me? The way that I got into it, I mean.” She looked over and he simply nodded, as if confirming she should go on. “I mean, didn’t I start doing all this just to chase around Sonic? Do I even really want to be doing this? Or am I doing this because I’ve never known anything else? I don’t even like him anymore, but I still drag myself out of bed every morning and come here, is it all routine now or do I actually want to be here?”

Shadow simply hummed again, silent in thought. Amy turned her attention back to Sonic and Tails’ bickering. They didn’t even look tired. How? How did they do it? If they didn’t seem tired wasn’t that a clear indicator that she was the odd one out?

“You know, you once gave me a pretty profound speech on how great it is to save people and why we should do it. I don’t think you just came up with that because you wanted an excuse to chase Sonic around.” Shadow suddenly spoke.

Amy looked over in surprise, cheeks heating.

“I didn’t think you remembered that.”

“Pretty hard to forget.”

They both stood silently looking at each other for a moment before Shadow held out a hand.

“Give me your phone.” He demanded.

“Why?” Amy asked, slowly pulling out her phone and handing it over.

“I’m turning off your alarms. Sleep in tomorrow. I’ll call in some extra help, we’ve got this. Take a break.” After a bit of tapping around, he handed the phone back. Amy smiled slightly,

“Thanks, Shadow.”

And now she lay in bed, eyes closed and face shoved into the pillow, contemplating what Shadow said.

It was true, she had indeed put a fair amount of effort into convincing him to help them out all those years ago on the Arc. And he was right, she did still believe everything she had said back then. Now, she hoped that allowing her body to rest to its full potential might bring some normalcy back to her and snap her out of the funk she’d been in.

Yet, the funk got funkier.

In her dreams, she ran along a treacherous path, a large robotic Eggman monstrosity chased her. Unable to summon her hammer, all Amy could do was run. The trees around her twisted and turned so high into the sky that she couldn’t see their tops, they disappeared into the dusty pink overcast as their dying leaves showered down on her anyways. She fought to catch her breath as she kept running– she didn’t bother screaming, there wouldn’t be anyone else to hear her here.

Eventually her foot caught on a gnarled root, and she tumbled to the ground. Amy groaned and lifted herself, twisting to look up at the robotic monster, she snarled and growled– hoping any sort of ferociousness might scare it away.

No such luck. The creature raised a clawed hand high into the sky and Amy’s eyes widened, she raised an arm to cover her head and waited for the impact.

Suddenly, a flash of light.

The creature cried out in pain as it seemed to turn to dust before her very eyes. Her hero’s silhouette against the now appearing sun. She squinted and lowered her arm as he turned and leaned over her, moving to pick her up.

“Shadow?” She spoke aloud, bewildered.

“Are you hurt anywhere?” He seemed to disregard her confusion, leaning in carefully to inspect her. She blushed– hard.

“Wha- why are you in my dream?”

“I’ll take you home. Everything will be okay now.” The dream Shadow had ignored her once again. She was lifted off the ground and into his arms.

Amy was silent. She watched as the dream apparition of Shadow carried her stoically along the path, eyes trained in front of him. He wasn’t real, and yet he felt so unbelievably real. She could feel him breath, she could feel his grasp change as he shifted her in his arms to be more comfortable, the long fur on his chest tickled her nose.

In the blink of an eye, he had carried her to her own bedroom. She couldn’t even remember leaving the forest. He lay her gently on the bed before climbing up and sitting with her, holding her head in his lap and brushing hands gently over her quills. As she gazed up at him, she noticed he looked peaceful.

“When you wake, I may not be there with you. But you can always find me here, if you need to.”

Amy was confused, why was dream Shadow so cryptic? She had a million questions she wanted to ask, all of them at the tip of her tongue waiting to spill over. But against her will, sleep pooled into her mind. It weighed down her eyelids and slowed her breathing, and as the dream Shadow’s gentle caress of her quills continued, she was lulled into sleep.

Upon waking, Amy ended up only having one question:

“What the hell was that?”

#gift #amy rose #shadow the hedgehog #submission

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bluebunnyears-08 · 1 year

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The Bittersweetness of Sonic Prime

You know when I go back and rewatch the episodes of this show because of how it ended, and because of its interesting story, I realize how horribly bittersweet it is.

Usually, Sonic stories have epic adventure stories or happy positive feelings but Prime is just...bittersweet. It gets even worse when you remember the ending of the first batch, which leaves SOO many interpretations.

Sure, there's some action here and there, but the main focus is the characters and their feelings. It's not about the fights or good vs evil, it's just about getting home, and trying to find light in a pitch-black room.

Hope.

Which makes the ending of the first batch worse. Home doesn't exist anymore, Sonic broke it. The way they handle Sonic's character is actually well done in my opinion. He's bubbly, positive, and cocky, but ultimately well-meaning, and unconditionally kind. There are some things he says that are annoying, but nothing too bad. Nothing too unwatchable.

I absolutely enjoy it when they put flaws instead of making Sonic a perfect hero like they usually do. He's more real, and easier to get attached to. He's immature, but he is still a teen, still growing and learning about the world.

The other characters are really good too. And one thing Prime does is show deep empathy for its characters. Each character has more depth to them, and when they express distressed feelings, you can understand and feel it. At times, you can even relate to their pain.

(The way he poses XD, he knows he's a bad bitch)

And I couldn't use this pic without this one.

(Period. End of discussion)

Shadow is another really well-done character, not an overly edgy asshole, but a cold person with a hidden heart of gold. He's standoffish to Sonic, and most likely his friends, but his and Sonic's fighting probably is nothing but competitive sport. Not to mention their fighting ACTUALLY MADE SENSE. Shadow saw Sonic was going to do some stupid shit again, except this time he would break the WORLD, so naturally, he tried to stop it.

Of course, he was going to fight Sonic, the blue bitch doesn't even listen to his friends. Of course, he's going to literally knock some sense into him the first chance he sees him, he broke THEIR HOME.

I agree Shadow could've tried to talk to Sonic, but again would Sonic have listened? Not to mention, Shadow is...a complicated person when it comes to communication.

The variants of the main characters are really good as well. Each of them has goals, ideals, and sides. Of course, there's one that stands out to me, and if you've seen my posts you know who it is.

I can't NOT talk about Nine! He's just so interesting and well-written. The show emphasizes a LOT of mystery around him. Like we KNOW this is another version of Tails, but what happened after he took the shard? How did he see Sonic? What did he discover about Prism's power and how to harness that power? What is going on in his head?!

We'll have to wait for these questions to be answered in the second batch, but he's still very fun to watch. In my opinion, he's not only the best character in Prime, but he's also the most bittersweet in the Sonic Franchise. when Sega tries to write a bittersweet character, it's either too sad or too happy, too edgy or too go-lucky, but Nine is a perfect in-between.

Nine is edgy done right, I am so sorry Shadow SEGA ruined you, and has moments where he's happy too. He's just a very complex and interesting character.

It's hilarious that "emo Tails" written by Netflix is better than any other edgy character SEGA made up. When he blows up or becomes cold, it's understandable.

Attacking Sonic the first moment he meets him? Sonic called him something he was abused for YEARS for, so naturally, he thought Sonic was another "bully". Taking the shard over helping the rebels? He watched the only person he ever bonded with get sucked into this shard, he never bonded with any of the rebels anyway. Doing it again when there was a battle? It wasn't his problem, it was the rebels' he was only working with them because he was helping Sonic anyway.

However, back to the topic, all of the variants Sonic bonds with reminds him of his friends back home, so yeah, he helped and bonded with them, but he doesn't belong in that world. Except his world is destroyed, his home where his REAL friends are, his friends that he mentioned are what make his home, home.

If he does manage to get all of the Paradox Prism together, those worlds and those variants will likely disappear. The variants would go through the equivalent of dying. They'll become one again, but they'll cease to be nothing more than mere traits, they won't be alive anymore, and they won't be their own person anymore. They'll cease to be, nothing more than the shards they are.

No matter what, how happy they are, or how satisfying the conclusion is, they will still have to "die", all just to become a shard of someone who will never know they existed. No matter how optimistic you look at it, it will have a pang of heartbreak.

And I think the chance of them remembering is highly unlikely because it would take away from the main theme of Prime. This isn't about them learning something, it's SONIC, and probably Shadow. If they remember it would kinda ruin the main tone of this show.

If anything, they'll just think it was a simple dream and think nothing of it. Because that's all it was to them, not a deep journey, not a meaningful bonding, just a weird dream that they don't need to think about ever again.

What will the varients think of that? What will NINE think of his worth? Nine and every other variant are just copies, things that aren't as important as the real thing. They aren't worth much, they're just variants, just "shards". With how Nine suffered, with how much Nine WANTS, I don't think he's just going to overlook it and help.

I also think that with his villain arc will come another solution. Another way the world can be restored is without simply converting him, mashing him up with the other meaningless shards, and becoming the real Tails. Another way where he won't be just some shard.

And to be honest, if there's another way that involves Nine going crazy but getting his way, getting to be HAPPY, while restoring the world and bringing everyone back without having to "die", I'm DOWN.

Some people hope there will be a redemption arc, and so do I, I'm hoping that the thing I mentioned just now will be it. Redemption is not always happy, it can be sad or bittersweet. When he does get that, it'll most likely be the harshest bittersweet ending of all.

I keep reading posts that Nine is a good boi or going to be a villain, but I want to say something that needs to be clarified, Nine isn't a good person, but he's not a bad one either, he's simply a kid, and we CANNOT forget that.

He's just a kid with NOTHING to lose, and when he finally finds something to be worth living for, he's never going to have it (unless he does things his own way).

There are some quotes from other Sonic games that I think fit well with what I'm trying to say that sum up ALL these characters, especially Sonic and Nine. All of these were said by Sonic btw.

"Don't be afraid to accomplish your dreams."

"When you want to do something, do it right away. Do it when you can. It's the only way to live life without regrets."

“Every world has its end. I know that’s kinda sad, but that’s why we gotta live life to the fullest in the time we have.”

“If the world chooses to become my enemy, I will fight like I always have!” -(Actually stated by Shadow, my b)

“I’ll never look back, I’ve got no regrets. Cause time doesn’t wait for me. I choose to go my own way.”

#sonic prime theory #sonic prime spoilers #more sonic prime!#nine sonic prime #nine the fox #nine needs a hug #nine deserves to win no matter what #miles nine prower #shadow the hedgehog #shadow the ultimate lifeform #sonic the hedgehog #poor shadow #poor sonic...#oh nine...#they all need a hug #and therapy

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yellowvixen · 1 year

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Finally had the chance to watch sonic prime! So here's my two cents before I read what everyone else has been saying:

We've seen three dimensions (red, green and blue), and I'm willing to bet there are another two (yellow and purple). Not including the empty dimension that Nine found - my theory is only dimensions that have a paradox prism shard will actually have any people

The Eggmans only seem to be in the red shard's dimension, with the others having no sign of any version of Eggman at all. Which is... weird. If there are five main dimensions (possibly) and five Eggmans, it would stand to reason there'd be one per dimension. But they seem as surprised as everyone else by the shatterverse's existence, so I guess for some reason they just weren't spread out when the dimensions came into existence?

The chaos emeralds and master emerald actually exist in this cartoon (unlike boom lol) but strangely no one seems particularly interested in them. The original Eggman cared more about getting the paradox prism, and Knuckles didn't seem too concerned with the master emerald's whereabouts. However it's only because Shadow had one and teleported that he wasn't split up into multiple dimensions, which makes me wonder if they'll be the key to fixing things

Sonic's original dimension is gone, with him and Shadow being the only ones left who remember it. Which means my theory before watching it that fixing the paradox prism and getting back home will involve erasing the other dimensions from existence might be right :')

And finally. Wtf is Shadow's deal lmao. Like fair enough for wanting to beat up Sonic because he keeps breaking shit (the mountain, the paradox prism, their entire dimension etc) but. Why is he there. Did sa2 happen? Is he friends with Rouge? What's his backstory? We got to see flashbacks of how Sonic first met Tails and Knuckles so I'm REALLY hoping we see ones with Amy, Rouge and Shadow in the next season

#sth #sonic prime #sonic prime spoilers #pleeease i'm so interested in the lore of this #why are the eggmans all in one dimension. why are there empty dimensions. if sonic 2 and 3 are canon to this are any of the other games?#and where are the other 6 chaos emeralds. are there 7 in each dimension or are they spread about or are they just fucking gone lol #already can't wait for s2 afkgjfhdhd #vixentalks

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monkey-network · 1 year

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Good Stuff: Best of 2022

This current year I say was a better current year than the one before, I mean the Queen died and that was funnier than Elon Musk's whole existence beyond the fact he sucks at Twitter. Never mind the chaotic reality we have, I'm celebrating the 10 best animations to come out this year. The only rule being they had to debut this year so while these two were banger entries, Amphibia and Owl House have to be exempt because I want to be fair. Otherwise, ANYTHING GOES so let's go...

Number 10: Batwheels

This reached the list for the sheer fact that it feels like a joke but has a better punchline than it has any right to. It looks colorful with great animation, and even if it's a preschool series it's thankfully one that's just about the adventures of both the titular bat vehicles and the actual Batman characters. This isn't like Cars where there aren't any humans around and they're cleverly able to make everyone coexist in a way that never feels out of place. It works as a good morning cartoon and a kiddo's introduction to the Batman universe besides the comics or the 90s animated series.

Number 9: We Baby Bears

I feel like we all need that one shows that's just for cute vibes to curb the stress and mental instability that intrudes on you when you get home from work or school. Being the spin-off prequel to We Bare Bears, while it can be pretty plain in terms of premises it's cute and whimsical on its own merits. It reminds me of Klonoa where we're hopping from world to world, sometimes there are familiar faces but otherwise, it's just about having fun with the different environments with characters I bet most gen ziggas will be familiar with. I say it was a good series to start off the year and while Cartoon Network's future feels too uncertain, I don't think a show like this is such a front on their MO. Plus, bears are awesome.

Number 8: Sonic Prime

The fact that Sonic the Hedgehog basically gave us its take on Robot Pirate Island was enough for me to like this, but Sonic Prime works well as a new series. Low on the list because for eight episodes, it wasn't as fulfilling especially when it felt like the SatAM show but not as tight since it's a multiverse story. Not that it isn't fun, this has more jovial energy to this that feels like a mesh between SatAM and The Adventures of Sonic. The animation I say is peak for a Sonic cartoon, imperfect but it looks like they're let loose with movement and expression. Plus again, we got the battle of Robot Pirate Island ending with a funny abrupt bodying from Shadow. Overall, hopeful part 2 ups the momentum because this and the Mario Movie really look like we might be eating well next year.

Number 7: The Cuphead Show!

Cuphead changed the way we game. With the DLC released this year as well, we seriously got a franchise that earned its keep. It felt natural that we'd get a cartoon, running alongside the recent Looney Tunes and Mickey Mouse short series as a great resurgence of the rubber-hose animation style. I'll say though that the episodes are great for this show, gets really going when Ms. Chalice joins for real, but it's scattershot in terms of actual banger episodes especially when the Devil makes for the best episodes with or without the porcelain trio. They at least end the 3rd season on a high note so whether we get more or not, this was overall satisfying and worth the wait.

Number 6: ONI, Thunder God's Tale

Really sucks this was talked about by nobody beyond the Goomba Got Back dude, whose video on it was cool. This was an incredibly made miniseries created by the same studios behind DOMO, Rilakkuma and Kaoru, and the cutscenes of most modern Sonic games. I love the plush and clay look of the characters and the environments are insanely beautiful. Storywise it's one where it starts strong and gets stronger with every part like episode two's ending was a gut punch and the blows kept coming after that. I loved this world of yokai and kami and it was an emotionally warm tale of family and self-actualization. Seriously recommend watching this at least once, subbed or dubbed since both are pretty good. So yeah, everybody that proclaims "animation is cinema", where the fuck were you?

Number 5: Scrat Tales

Would've been wrong to not put this on the list since it was the last thing Blue Sky made before Bob Chapek took the studio out back. Even if Blue Sky never closed, these shorts were great, taking me back to when Scrat was at his best in the earlier Ice Age films. The animation is especially great and it just makes me wish Blue Sky got to do more because this really showed they were good with slapstick comedy and improved after two decades. Needless to say, this miniseries and their final short was them going out on a high note, giving the best middle finger to Disney after they tried to revive the Ice Age franchise with the Buck Wild movie. If there was anything to credit about this year, it was taking the bad with the good.

Number 4: The Bob's Burgers Movie

This was surprisingly the year when I watched a lot of movies. Thankfully I'm not a filmbro (yet...) but I've really appreciated the time I made in actually going to the theaters more than once, so yeah Bobby's Bunger. I say it works on its own but it's definitely more for fans of the TV series and even then you probably have to see the season that came before this to have better context. Besides that, you're just enjoying the good vibes that come from the characters, the humor, the animation, and the pinch of musical numbers we get; Sunny Side Up Summer was legit an earworm banger. It overall works when you know the Belcher family because they carry this film.

Number 4 (2): Marcel the Shell with Shoes On

Mate, when it reached a certain scene involving a poem, I was practically choking back my tears. You'll know there's a later stop-motion higher ranked, but this was the 2022 film that personally cut deep. I didn't think a film about talking shells would resonate with me this well, but this existed as more than just Youtube short films extended into a movie. There is a story here about grief, comfort, being internet famous, and community that I feel wouldn't have worked without it being like this. It had that cold but good reminder of how small you can feel with a world you can only wish to grasp in increments; that change is inescapable but that doesn't mean you should take that negatively. It's hard being fearless, risque as you can be with your opinions and ideas, especially with uncertainty. This I say is a great Autumn movie, wonderful in making the seasonal vibe feel more comforting.

Number 3: Smiling Friends

Yeah, it's high on the list. If it wasn't, that means Egoraptor probably made it. To me, Smiling Friends has the enjoyable chaos of Superjail and Aqua Teen with the thematic sincerity of Venture Bros or King of the Hill. It's the most easy-going adult cartoon that yeah, is funny as shit and is funnier the more you know behind the scenes. I gotta appreciate that this is the one time when people from the internet hit the big time and it doesn't feel like forgettable compromised trash. I'll say the Brazil episode was not good, but this was the consistently best show Adult Swim provided in a long while.

Number 2: Guillermo Del Toro's Pinocchio

Del Toro never gave up on this and what we got was better than expected. There are a couple story problems but it's more than made up by being an amazing retelling of the Pinocchio tale. I never grew up with Pinocchio mind you, I only got familiar with the story this year since it was everywhere, but I wanna say this was as strong an interpretation as one could make. Better than Disney's take I say where it's purposefully not squeaky clean in appearance or atmosphere making its poignant emotional moments hit a little harder. Being Del Toro's first fully animated movie, it's up there with Fantastic Mr. Fox as a film I'd consider a masterpiece on the dedication craft alone.

Honorable Mentions: Entergalactic, Hamster & Gretel, Minions 2, The Amazing Maurice, Chickenhare, League of Super Pets, Super Giant Robot Brothers, Cars on the Road, Little Demon, Pantheon, Baymax!, Turning Red, and Zootopia+

Number 1: The Bad Guys/Puss in Boots, Last Wish

I'll say it, Dreamworks truly owned the W this year. The fact that two-for-two Dreamworks gave us the best vibes in terms of films like it was nothing has to be appreciated. I was already a fan of Puss in Boots, the film and cartoon series worked as the Zorro franchise we could've got. The Last Wish enhances that with not only literal stellar and dynamic action, no bad characters, but an actual reflective story for Puss, like if the 1st film and series were about him being responsible this sequel was about him being humble, especially in regard to his own mortality and pride. This isn't just a regular adventure like before, there is genuine emotional weight behind what happens to the characters. Just saying, we didn't just get a fierce red-eyed wolf for furry-lusting sake, but an actually intimidating force that owns every scene he's in. Feels like this film truly marks the twilight of where the studio wants to go with its projects and I'm worried but faithful. Oh yeah, and The Bad Guys?

I didn't grow up with the OG books like I did with Captain Underpants, but this film both blew my mind and made me go back to see that the books were good too. Objectively, Puss in Boots was the better film but this was my personal year-round favorite. The VIBES this had with basically every other scene had me just as happy as when I saw the Captain Underpants movie. The animation, the banter, Diane who is everything, and the banging tunes like Good Tonight and the opening with Kitchen Clean were the cleanest scenes I loved all year. If Puss in Boots 2 was the modern Zorro movie I always wanted, this was the American Lupin the 3rd movie I never knew I would get.

All in all, Dreamworks put its best foot forward, far more than expected especially compared to last year or Disney this year. If anything, I'm definitely noticing a slow shift where more animated projects are... footloose and yards away from trying to look realistic or copy-pasted. Not saying it'll all work (remember when theOdd1sOut made a cartoon?) but it has me as faithful as before in seeing worthwhile stuff come to fruition. Then again nothing this year truly stacked up to the

ACTUAL NUMBER 1: SLIPPIN' JIMMY

I'm talking about the Breaking Bad masterpiece that earned a Slipjimmillion dollars in ratings and views, baby! The streaming service superstar of 2022 nothing could top it. Not Bluey, not Better Call Saul, not The Simpsons, not your dad, nothing came close! Slippin' Jimmy is the future!

WITH ALL THAT SAID, HAVE A GOOD NEW YEAR!

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rainbow18 · 7 months

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Sonic, Nine and Protagonist Centered Morality.

Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t make this post to say people should be calling Sonic [Insert Insult Here], just that a lot of the things people, (specifically Nine’s detractors) complain about Nine doing also applies to Sonic.

1. Being a “Traitor.”

To make sure there aren’t any misunderstandings on what makes a Person a Traitor, let’s look at the definition.

Sonic Told Nine that 1. The Surprise in The Grim is probably cool and 2. he couldn’t wait to hear more. 3. They will go after visiting Ghost Hill.

Sonic technically didn’t say the words that he will go but He said the lines directly after Nine made it clear that He wants Sonic to SEE what’s in The Grim. Plus as we all saw and Heard, Sonic not only refused to go, He dismissed Nine’s feelings about The Grim. So Sonic can’t use the classic “Technically I never said I would X” excuse.

Plus when using exact words, From Sonic’s own mouth, their plan was to 1. Visit Ghost Hill. 2. Look at Ghost Hill’s Shard. 3. Look at The Blueprint and finally 4. They will go to The Grim. (No mentions of Fixing Green Hill or specifying that he wants the prism fixed in Ghost Hill)

While it can be argued that Sonic meant he will focus on The Grim after The Original Green Hill is restored, with the possibility that The Shatterverse will vanish, Sonic might not be able to keep the Promise. So even when using Sonic’s meaning, he’s still guilty.

Yet with exceptions, most fans only hold Nine accountable for being a “Traitor,” and say “Nine betrayed Sonic”. In fact, more than one person actually forgot the deal/plan that SONIC proposed and went back on.

2. Wanting X to live in an environment that isn’t X’s preferred one.

Both Nine and Sonic wanted the other to live in their preferred place.

Nine directly stated that he wants to live in the Grim on multiple occasions and he wanted Sonic to stay with him.

Nine can’t travel between the worlds on his own. Making him stuck wherever Sonic leaves him. Even if Sonic takes Nine back to The Grim, Nine will no longer be able to survive there as there’s no food or water.

Plus unlike when Sonic asked Thorn to give up The Green Shard, Sonic doesn’t try promising to come back to The Grim and help Nine live there. (While it can be argued that it might not have worked, at the time Sonic threatened to take The Purple Shard, Sonic hadn’t yet broken his promise to go to The Grim.)

Also Quite a few of Sonic’s lines can give off the impression that Sonic was hoping for Nine to live in Green Hill or Ghost Hill.

When defending Nine to Shadow, Sonic described Ghost Hill as Nine’s Reality. (Though it can be argued that Sonic meant the Shatterverse in general.)

Sonic talked about how He wanted Nine to see Green Hill.

Sonic described Green Hill as “Our Home”, albeit this was likely intended to be a sign of Sonic projecting Tails onto Nine.

Sonic discussed how he was hoping Nine would befriend the prime characters.

Several fans stated that Nine was foolish to believe that Sonic would accept The Grim and claimed that he forgot what Sonic said about The Grim.

However not as many called Sonic a fool for forgetting that The Grim is the only place That Nine feels safe and happy in and as I showed above, Nine did remember, it’s actually SONIC that forgot his words about The Grim.

3. Being “Selfish” and/or “a Hypocrite”

While in The Grim, Nine made Palm Trees because he remembered how Sonic mentioned them previously. Nine specifically said “SONIC’S gonna love this”. Nine wants to make the perfect world in The Grim.

Things Sonic sacrificed for Nine and/or Nine wanted Sonic to sacrifice.

The Original Green Hill, which is already gone and the entire shatterverse might die if it comes back.

Sonic’s comfort zone, which doesnt really count much because Sonic can use his powers to leave any time he wants and because of the different time zones, He can be gone for hours without Nine noticing.

Let’s recap everything Nine sacrificed and/or Sonic unintentionally asked Nine to sacrifice due to not thinking things through.

Nine’s safety and well-being.

Nine’s happiness.

Nine’s Shard, AKA Nine’s only way to survive in The Grim.

Nine’s life.

Nine’s comfort zone.

Sonic also rarely considered what Nine might want and only hoped Nine would change his mind. Yet for the most part, only Nine got deemed “Selfish and/or Hypocritical”.

4. Risking Others Lives.

Nine refused to save The Original Green Hill, which means That The Prime Characters will stay in whatever state they are in for who knows how long. Sonic refused to leave The Original Green Hill be, which puts the Shatterverse at risk because Ghost Hill, New Yoke, Boscage Maze, No Place and The Grim all are a piece of the original.

Originally it appeared that Nine was just sad after screaming that he is real. Nine didn’t completely snap until AFTER Sonic unintentionally revealed that he didn’t consider that Nine might vanish if the prism is fixed nor did he make any precautions to prevent it from happening.

Sonic doesn’t think things through much so he doesn’t realize what he’s doing. But his dialogue when Dread and His crew were chasing him had caused suspicions that the idea that everyone and everything will vanish to be part of the originals had crossed his mind, at least briefly.

Sonic’s line was “ You guys are gonna feel really bad about this when you think back and remember how awful you guys were treating me when I’m only trying to help”. While it’s possible that he meant “You guys will regret it eventually when you hear/learn my side of the story”, it can be argued “Why mention “Help” if He’s not helping them? and/or why not specify who he’s helping?”

Especially back when Ghost of a Chance first aired, most only acknowledged how Nine stopped Sonic from saving His Prime Friends, while not as many mentioned Sonic’s potential mass Genocide.

5. Why they did what they did.

Nine has been traumatized, bullied, ignored and he grew up under a dictatorship. So it makes sense why he hates New Yoke and He wants to live in The Grim because it’s the least likely to remind him of his trauma. Nine wants to save The Grim from Sonic.

(New Yoke was identical to Green Hill until The Takeover. No Place has Pirates, who often commit Piracy and Dread’s crew was considering Committing Murder on more than one occasion. Boscage Maze and everyone there is really wild.)

Sonic has shown signs of having PTSD from when the Prism broke and he also appears to be going through the 5 stages of Grief. Sonic wants to save the Prime Characters from Himself.

They both had difficulty understanding each other and in communication.

Yet, only Sonic’s issues are acknowledged by everyone while Nine’s issues weren’t. Instead, plenty even developed a case of “Self Serving Memory”.

#Sonic prime #Sonic nine

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bexorok · 4 days

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Knuckles series review

Ok, I totally get what reviewers meant now. There definitely wasn’t a whole lot of our main alien hero’s we all know and love. But, for what it is, I had fun with it! It’s over the top, funny, and the moments we do get with the characters are all great.

My guess is that the studio pushed to make a Knuckles spin off and the original concept was going to be focused on mainly Knuckles, but considering it was in production during the strikes, it’s possible that budgets were cut and they could only afford to have so much CGI scenes. I actually think that the 4th episode was going to be a flashback episode, but that would have required an entirely CGI environment for the full length of the episode. What they did, making it a musical episode with human characters acting it out, was most likely a way around it while still keeping the original story line. Does it work? Not in the way they probably originally wanted. But it was honestly just really fun, and it gives them a chance to have some creative references to the original games.

This seems like a classic case of creators having big ambitions but being limited by the studio. The CGI they have in the show looks great, and I have a feeling they placed quality over quantity when it came to those scenes, but it is to the detriment of the entire show. It doesn’t feel like a balance of Wade and Knuckles, it feels like knuckles gets sidelined for a majority of the show. If the musical episode had been a flashback episode, it probably would have felt much more balanced. My biggest complaint beyond that is that the scenes were cut really weird. Like, going from the big final battle to the bowling tournament then back to the battle was just jarring.

I definitely understand the disappointment though. I’m just speculating here. Considering how much the creators care about these characters, my guess is they would have had a much more in depth story if they could. Again, for what it was worth, I still had fun watching.

A few more things I want to note:

I’m kind of glad the story wasn’t a super in depth storyline with major plot. One of the big problems with the Marvel Cinematic universe has been the spinoff shows being over saturated and required to understand the overall storyline. With a fun little spin off show like this, it isn’t required at all to watch and know before seeing the next movie. It’s more of a “let’s check in on what these characters are up to in the meantime”, and see their little hijinks they get up to.

There were also some surprising things that got past the censorship for what would be expected to be aimed at kids. Nothing insane, but they played “damn it feels good to be a gangster” without any censorship, used phrases like “pissed off” and “this guys got some balls”. It could mean that they’re going to be a bit lenient on what can and can’t be said/seen. What I’m getting at here is that it’s possible we might get to hear shadow say damn and hold a gun (fingers crossed)

Also, we’ve established for sure that Knuckles is staying with the Wachowskis and now considers earth home! I just want them to be a family! I would have loved more of a tie in with that part of knuckles character, but again, budget restraints.

I have extremely high hopes for Sonic 3 still. Obviously, they will have a way bigger budget for a full length movie, and will have time to focus on our main characters. I don’t mind the human characters, I even like most of them, but I think when the human characters take the attention away from the main story is when the problems arise.

It’s obvious that the creators really care about these characters and how they’re portrayed. Now that they want to actually expand this universe and include more Sonic characters and stories, I think that it can only improve from here! We just have to believe that the studio will put their trust in the creators and not restrict their vision (like when they pushed for a more “realistic” design for Sonic when the creators originally wanted the cartoony design, which really backfired).

I hope you guys still have fun watching!

I’m giving the series a solid 3/5

#knuckles #knuckles series #knuckles spoilers #sonic movie

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steadymongerbatscissors · 11 months

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The Battle Bird Armada

You may have noticed that when I made my last batch of Archie Sonic memes I mentioned the battle bird armada.

The reason being they are a hilarious concept and they actually has some pretty good characters once you look past their goofiness.

I mean the battle kukku was hilarious in the Archie sonic comics but he could also be pretty threatening when he wanted to be.

Speedy didn’t really get that much time to shine but the fandom took what little they had and made a pretty good narrative of speedy becoming friends with tails and sorta becoming the shadow to tail’s sonic.

That being said though that dosen’t mean there aren’t some flaws or missed opportunity with these crazy birds.

Flaws

One flaw of the battle birds is they are pretty stupid. I’m sorry but the moment a single fox cub takes you down you lose a lot of respect from me.

Another flaw they have is that their motivations suck ass cause when he first meet them in Sonic Universe #17 the reason they hate Tails is because he can fly and they think only birds should fly.

Thats right there motivation is that they believe birds should own the sky.

So basically there racist.

Yeah not a strong start.

Thankfully this is kinda fixed when we learn that they are searching for their ancestral home: The Babylon Gardens.

Missed Opportunity’s

So yeah there guys are the same race as the Babylon rogues which means they are also part alien cool great now just expand on that.

But do they expand. No they just leave as a random little thing in a sonic world where squids are aliens.

So disappointment is at an all time high for me right now.

But they are setting up speedy and tails as rivals can’t wait for when they move for the Babylon Gardens and the Freedom Fighters try to stop them.

Oh wait they only have a single word of dialogue okay lets hope the reboot does them a little more justice.

The reboot did actually do some justice however it basically removes battle bird armada’s agency as they now work for Eggman

That’s basically all they did with the battle bird armada when they are literally aliens who has so much potential.

How To Expand On Them

Let’s start off on where the battle birds first & last appeared in game canon:Tails Adventure.

Now I know what you are going to say “That isn’t possible Tails was raised in knothole since he was born on the day Robotnik took over Mobotroplis”.

You be right too if you said that but there is one point where he left knothole.

That’s right The Tails miniseries.

Now what happens in this miniseries dosen’t really matter as the only thing that happens is that Tails meet some new Freedom Fighter Groups and Athair.

So instead of all that happening we could just have the events of Tails Adventure take place in this miniseries instead of all that.

So we covered a better way to introduce them way earlier. Now what do we do after simple have them come for revenge.

But when would they come for revenge I mean if they show themselves now Eggman could forcefully recruit them or the Freedom Fighter could take them down.

Hmmm at what time are both Eggman and the Freedom Fighters inactive?

Ohh I know how about WHEN SONIC WENT TO SPACE

If you couldn’t tell I hate it when a story implies that just because a main character isn’t there the world just freezes.

Note:Yes I know Eggman took over Angel Island at the time but that dosen’t make sense because the Chaotix and Freedom Fighters even without Sonic wouldn’t just sit there and let that happen.

But to get back on point we can just say that when the Battle Bird Armada start their invasion Eggman is still fixing Robotropilis after the Xorda attacked Mobius and the Freedom Fighter are still grieving for Sonic.

Maybe even have the Battle Birds come back as cyborgs cause I don’t think a person is coming back in one piece after getting hit with napalm.

This forces tails to come out of Sonic’s shadow and actually move past his grief.

We could even have a moment where Tails owns up to his own mistakes about what he did to the battle birds even have him apologize to speedy.

This dosen’t mean that Tails is completely at fault cause they did attack but Freedom Fighters don’t kill and Tails did kill in self defense.

I can even imagine it going like this:

Speedy:You permanently scarred me for life.

Tails:Your right sure you did attack me but doing what I did was wrong.

Tails:I’m sorry.

Speedy:You think that changes anything I was in constant pain during the process.

Speedy:I won’t stop until you feel that pain too.

Tails:You have a right to feel that way

(Or something like that tell me if it was cringe)

After this if they fail again to kill Tails expand on the Alien side some more by having the Babylonians that weren’t stranded on Mobius come to Mobius to take back their Babylon Garden.

Cause remember it may have crashed on Mobius but it belongs to the Babylonians.

Later on when Sonic is returned from Space,preferably after Bold New Moebius we can have a full scale invasion from the Babylonians maybe even have this be the arc where Speedy let’s go of his hate and becomes a anti-hero.

This invasion could allow every character to show off there skills

For Example

Antoine fighting a Babylonian who uses a sword

Nicole hacking all of the Babylonians enhanced technology

Rotor actually getting a win while wearing the dumb nanite suit

Tails & Speedy fighting the leader

Sonic fighting the Grand Battle Kukku XVI

Bunnie & Sally fighting the Chief Enforcer for the leader

We could end the invasion with something like the Babylonian leader transforming with the ark of the cosmo. This could in turn could force Tails & Speedy to transform using the chaos emeralds into a super form. This in way would complete Speedy’s development as he is so strong without his father & hatred that he can turn super.

Conclusion

In conclusion the Battle Bird Armada deserved far more than they got. They have been squandered in game canon and comic canon despite all their potential for great stories. Characters like speedy deserve to be more than a throwaway villain and could have become a lesson on letting go of hatred.

While furthering these characters they could have also furthered Tails character by forcing him to realize that the world isn’t black and white and heroes will make mistakes but to keep pushing forward.

#long post #battle bird armada #grand battle kukku xvi #speedy the bird #speedy #miles tails prower #tails the fox #eggman #dr eggman #sally acorn #bunnie rabbot #antoine depardieu #antoine d'coolette #nicole the holo lynx #sonic the hedgehog

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cattyanon · 1 year

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How other characters react to scrapnic? Like Amy , Knuckles, or Shadow. How would they react? I just have to say I love this Au so much I constantly doodle scrapnic^^ Hope you are having an amazing day/night/evening/afternoon/morning/etc <3

Aaaah I'm so glad you like it!!! I would love to see your doodles of him if you're comfortable sharing! Now onto the question...

First of all I wanna mention that it actually takes them awhile to even tell anyone. Everyone, including Tails at one point, were certain that Sonic had died. How do they tell/explain this to anyone? Much less the world? And what if they don't believe him (Tails)? It'd be logical of them to assume he's just in some sort of denial over Sonic's death again.

So they actually go awhile without anybody knowing but uh. The first person to be 'informed' of Scrapnic's existence technically hadn't been told anything. So who is it?

Well remember how I said that since Tails couldn't really keep a certain someone out of his workshop/home that they're the only one that Tails ever really talked with?

If you don't remember, it's Shadow.

Also since I ended up going on whole spiel about what happens here's a TL;DR: Shadow visits Tails and, much to Tails' dismay, can tell something is up and ends up discovering Scrapnic. Immense confusion ensues.

You see, Tails had been so distracted with Scrapnic that he completely forgot that Shadow visits him regularly to check in on him. So when he hears a knock at the door and sees it's Shadow (through a peephole in the door) he immediately panics. He tries to convince Shadow that now's a bad time.

Of course this completely backfires as it only makes Shadow worried about him. Except for the first few times, Tails had never done this before. It's clear he's hiding something so he teleports inside much to Tails' dismay.

The additional problem here is that, due to completely forgetting about Shadow's visits, he hadn't told Scrapnic to hide. Just asked for him to stay out of sight of the door while he handles it. I mean whoever it is, he should be able to get them to go away pretty easily.

But wuh oh! Turns out the person at the door is literally the only person who he can't easily get to go away! And Scrapnic doesn't know this!

And Tails really tries to get Shadow to not come in beyond the doorway. He's totally fine, see? Shadow obviously doesn't buy it one bit. So uh. Shadow begins to go looking around the workshop to find out what Tails is trying to hide, inevitably stumbling across Scrapnic. Idk what Scrapnic is doing when he finds him but he's definitely just harmlessly minding his own business.

When Shadow sees him he just completely blue screens for a moment. What. The fuck. Is a Metal Sonic. Doing here.

He immediately gets into a defensive position and Is just all "Who the fuck are you?!" and on one hand, Shadow is tempted to attack him. But on the other hand, this is probably what Tails was trying to hide from him. And since Tails seems fine there's probably something more going on here?? Maybe????

And Scrapnic just completely gets the (s)crap scared out of him and is all like "Shadow??? What the fuck are you doing here?????"

I'm just imagining it's like that one Spiderman meme, lol.

Tails just rushes in like "PLEASE DON'T ATTACK HIM, SHADOW!!! I SWEAR THERE'S A GOOD REASON HE'S HERE!!!" and is super relieved to see a lack of fighting.

Of course Shadow demands an explanation and poor Tails is like "Yes. An explanation. This is a thing I should definitely be explaining now. Something of which I will explain. Something I am totally sure of how to explain to you because it's definitely nothing complicated. Of which I should definitely get on. You know, since I'm sure you'll totally understand and not question my sanity. Haha, yup."

Both Shadow and Scrapnic just stare at Tails all like -_- because he's clearly stalling and most definitely does NOT know how to explain.

Eventually Shadow has enough and is just like "For fucks sake, let's just go into the living room where you can just take your damn time figuring out a way to explain why in the fuck there's a Metal Sonic in your house rn." while poor Scrapnic just stands there uncomfortably at being called a Metal Sonic.

Tails makes Shadow promise to hear him out before jumping to conclusions as he proceeds to just tell him what happened on Scrapnik Island.

Then he gets to the part where it's revealed that Scrapnic is Sonic.

And Shadow just. Doesn't know how to process that. What the fuck do you mean that's not a Metal Sonic and is actually just Sonic?? That Sonic is still technically alive but as a fucking robot? Why the hell didn't Sonic, like, run across the water or some shit?! (The answer is that he was too scared that his robotic body would fail him in the middle of ocean)

Shadow is visibly angry but holds out the questioning until Tails is done. And to put it simply He's not happy. In fact he's fucking pissed, even with the explanation.

Cause Shadow knows how painful it feels to lose someone that close to you. The sheer amount of grief it gives you.

So to know that Tails had to go through for all that for no reason? That Sonic was alive this whole time? Whose only 'reason' he didn't just run across the water was due to his own cowardice?

Well, let's just say that Scrapnic is gonna get a very stern talking to...

(Also I HAD planned on talking about Amy and Knuckles but this post just got too long...)

#I just unintentionally went off on what happened with Shadow #and then the post just got too long for my liking sooooo #Sorry about that :(#Sonic #Sonic au #Scrapnik Sonic au #Scrapnic #Shadow the hedgehog #Tails the fox #(I once again apologize for not getting to Amy and Knuckles)

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tenebraevesper · 3 months

Text

Shatter Me, Entry 2: The Reason I'm Here

''Shiny the recog! The story we continued to draw, shine light now! Wandering through time, a place where absurdity swirls. I had a blue and sad dream, the figure that was temporarily hidden. The meaning of this world is intertwined. I run through, hoping to meet up sometime, a view of the far, far future. Shiny the recog! When I wake up, the story that continues tomorrow! Grab it with these hands, the strength to believe will become a miracle! If it's the despair that resides in you, I'll cut through everything in my sight. The reason I'm here is because I want you to smile.''

– Recognize by MegaMan X DiVE

xXxXxXx

''Hey, Tails! Have you seen where the picnic blanket it?''

Tails looked up from the device he was working on, a bit surprised to see Sonic holding a picnic basket. ''Uh, sure… It's on the shelf, over there.''

''Thanks, little bro,'' Sonic replied, going over to the shelf and grabbing the blanket.

''You're going out for a picnic?'' Tails asked curiously.

''Yeah, with Shadow. I finally managed to find him and convince him to have a victory lunch since he had helped us save the Paradox Prism,'' Sonic replied, placing the blanket into the basket.

''I'm surprised that he agreed to it,'' Tails said.

''Well, what can I say? I'm quite persuasive when I want to be,'' Sonic replied, walking out of the workshop. ''Once again, thanks for the help Tails! You're the best!''

''Uh, huh, thanks, but…'' Tails sighed when he saw Sonic already speeding off. He hummed in thought, wondering what had happened to Sonic. Ever since they had saved the Paradox Prism, Sonic started to act weird… Well, perhaps ''weird'' wasn't the right word. Instead, he actually became more attentive, paying close attention to what others said before giving his own input. Not only that, but when it came to Tails, Sonic had started to praise him even for the most mundane stuff, reminding him how he would always be there for his little brother and to ask him if he ever felt bothered by something. While Sonic being a supportive big brother was welcome, Tails didn't understand what had triggered this change.

To add to it, Sonic would also keep running off to find Shadow, noting how he needs to thank him properly for his help and talking about how he was glad to have Shadow around. While Tails agreed that it was good that Shadow helped them to save the Paradox Prism, he wasn't really sure why Sonic made such a big deal out of it. He tried to ask Sonic about it, but the azure hedgehog had already ran off to his next adventure.

''I guess I'll ask him next time he stops by,'' Tails muttered, only to turn to his computer, surprised to see a change in the weather pattern. ''This is not good. I hope Sonic won't get caught in the approaching rainstorm.''

xXx

As per their agreement, Shadow was already waiting at the beach, observing the waves crashing against the sand and staring ahead at the sky. He took note of the thick dark grey clouds approaching Green Hill, feeling concerned about a possible storm. His ears flicked when he heard the familiar sound of Sonic running up to him, skidding to a halt as he held the picnic basket tightly in his arms.

''Sorry for being late, but it took me a bit to get all the spices right… Uh, is something wrong?'' Sonic followed Shadow's gaze, now seeing the drearily dull sight before him. ''Aw, com'n! I thought we'd have nice weather today!''

''It seems like we would have to postpone the beach picnic,'' Shadow said, glancing at Sonic. The azure hedgehog's ears drooped as he stared at the oncoming clouds in disappointment, with the wind picking up. He was looking forward to this so much, only for all of his effort being for nothing. Shadow then turned back to the horizon in thought, already feeling the rain droplets on his fur. He did feel bad for Sonic and him wasting his time and energy to arrange this only for the weather to ruin it.

''I guess we should go home then…''

''Wait.''

A dispirited Sonic, who had already turned on his heel to leave, was caught off guard when Shadow grabbed him by the hand and revealing the green Chaos Emerald in the other. ''I know a place where we can take shelter from the storm. Do you want to come along?''

''Of course!'' Sonic perked up, feeling Shadow tightening his grip on his hand as he held up the Chaos Emerald. There was a flash of light and both disappeared from the beach, just as the rain had started.

This was followed by a flash of light in what appeared to me some kind of alcove close to Hedgehog's Pass. It wasn't too shallow, but not too deep either to even be considered a cave, providing the two hedgehogs with enough space to shelter them from the wind and rain, but also keeping them close to each other. Shadow turned to Sonic, still holding his hand. ''I suppose we could have the picnic here instead on the beach, if you're fine with it.''

However, before Shadow could even finish his sentence, Sonic had already let go of him and grabbed the blanket out of the basket, setting it down on the ground and took out the sea dogs, offering Shadow one, having a wide smile on his expression.

''You never miss a beat, do you?'' Shadow couldn't help but smile at Sonic's optimism, taking the sea dog and sitting down next to Sonic.

''Heh, I'm just glad that we could have a picnic, no matter the place,'' Sonic replied, before taking a huge bite out of his sea dog. ''Nothing beats a good meal, especially when you're sharing it with your friend.''

''Friend?''

Sonic almost chocked on his sea dog when he heard Shadow's tone. It was strangely serene and inquisitive, as if Shadow was questioning the very nature of their relationship without even asking anything. Sonic wasn't sure why, but something about it struck a nerve and he was suddenly worried that maybe he said something that might've offended Shadow, so he decided to quickly elaborate on it.

''Well, yeah… I mean, at this point, being rivals and friends is practically the same,'' Sonic said, remembering all those times people beat him up before becoming his friends. Somehow, this way of making friends was becoming more and more common, much to his amusement and exasperation.

''If it's the same thing, why did you get so nervous?''

Sonic gave him a blank look, only to take note of the slightest of smirks Shadow gave him as he ate the sea dog. It took a moment for his brain to process that Shadow was just teasing him. Shadow couldn't help but snort in amusement when Sonic pouted in annoyance, reaching for the basket for another sea dog, a faint tint of pink spreading on his fawn muzzle. He ate it in silence, trying to figure out how to quip back to Shadow's comment, but all that came to his mind was a rush of adrenaline and fear when a memory flashed in his mind. He tried to shake it off, sighing instead as he continued to eat.

Shadow raised an eyebrow at Sonic's sudden silence. Usually, he appreciated it when Sonic actually shut up for once, but for some reason, he felt a little concerned about the lack of response. He felt an urge to reach out for him, even lifting his hand on instinct, but stopped himself, resuming to eat in silence and watching the downpour outside.

xXx

''I hope that Sonic is fine…'' Tails muttered as he observed the downpour outside from his workshop. The weather really took a turn for the worse and it was fortunate that it didn't turn into a full-blown thunderstorm. While Tails had figured that Sonic would be able to find shelter, it didn't make him feel less worried about his older brother. Suddenly, he heard a knock on his window, surprised to see Rouge flying outside, gesturing at the closed entrance to his workshop. He quickly walked over and opened it, letting the bat inside. Rouge flapped her wings, shaking off the rain droplets. Tails then walked over with a towel in his hands, tossing it towards Rouge. She used the towel to dry herself off, placing it over her shoulders.

''Ugh, the weather outside is horrible! Good thing I was close to your workshop,'' she said, looking around. ''Isn't Sonic with you?''

''No, he went out for a picnic with Shadow,'' Tails replied. Rouge's eyes widened in surprise.

''Really? I'd never expected for Shadow to actually agree to socialize with anyone, let alone Sonic,'' Rouge said. Tails shrugged.

''That's what Sonic had told me,'' he replied. ''As a matter of fact, he had been talking a lot about Shadow lately.''

Rouge tilted her head, humming in interest. ''Yeah, I had also noticed a change in Blue's attitude… Well, I hope their date didn't get ruined by the rainstorm.''

''D-Date?'' Tails stared at Rouge in surprise. She just gave him a nonchalant look.

''I mean, what else would you call these two going alone on a picnic,'' she said, a sly grin spreading on her lips. Tails was still baffled by Rouge's take on the situation, wondering if she was being genuine or just messing with him. Rouge didn't seem to be interested in giving him an answer, instead just starting to walk around the workshop and looking at the tools and devices on the shelves and desks. ''In any case, thanks for letting me stay here until the storm stops.''

''You're welcome, but please, don't touch anything,'' Tails replied in a deadpan tone, well aware of Rouge's treasure hunting reputation.

''Do you have any gems here?'' Rouge asked, with Tails shaking his head. She then gave him an assuring smile. ''Then you have nothing to worry about.''

Tails just sighed, walking back to the device he was working on, but it was hard for him to focus, as his mind was still replaying the conversation he had with Rouge in regards to Sonic and him supposedly being on a date with Shadow. He tried to shake it off as Rouge just making a wild assumption, but for some reason, the thought just wouldn't leave his mind.

Sonic, you really have some explaining to do.

xXx

''Man, I haven't seen a rainstorm this bad in a while now,'' Sonic commented, leaning against the wall of the alcove. He and Shadow have just finished their meal and were watching the constant downpour of rain that somehow had gotten stronger. ''It feels like someone is just dumping buckets of water all over the place. I just hope there won't be any flooding.''

''Once the rain stops, we can go and make sure that there isn't any,'' Shadow said, sitting next to Sonic, with one elbow propped on his knee. Sonic just nodded.

''I hope there won't be, because the last thing I need is to fall into water… again. I don't even have the kicks I had in No Place to keep me afloat,'' Sonic replied, wiggling his feet as he stared at the sneakers. ''Those really came in handy. I wish I had them when we fought Chaos.'' Sonic shuddered at the memory of Station Square being flooded. ''Man, I know everything went well… but that guy was made out of water! I was lucky I didn't drown.''

''Chaos?''

Sonic turned his gaze towards Shadow, who gave him a genuinely confused look. Sonic stared at him, wondering why the dark hedgehog looked so puzzled, until he realized it. ''Oh, right! You weren't there when we fought Chaos and Eggman. Sorry, my bad!''

''What did the Doctor do this time?'' Shadow asked, furrowing a brow when Sonic namedropped Eggman.

''Well, he unleashed this water deity named Chaos after shattering the Master Emerald, and Chaos went on to just destroy everything in his way because he was really angry and hurt because of what Knuckles' ancestors did to him in the past. You'd have to ask Knuckles for more details about this though, he knows this stuff better than I do,'' Sonic explained. ''Fortunately, we managed to calm him down and he left with Tikal.''

''Should I even ask you who Tikal is?'' Shadow asked in a dry tone, having gotten used to Sonic just namedropping people in a context that only made sense to him. ''Or should I ask Knuckles for an explanation?''

''Eh, heh…'' Sonic smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. He then leaned over, holding up his finger and thumb as he got an idea. ''You know, if you want me to, I could tell you all about my past adventures so you can get up to speed. What do you say?'' His ears then drooped as his eyes flickered to the side, adding, ''I mean, I know you're not exactly into small talk, but we're kind of stuck here… But you also have the Chaos Emerald, so you can just leave…''

''I'll listen to you talk,'' Shadow said, his eyes closed as he let out a soft sigh, his arms folded across his chest. He understood Sonic's desire to spend time with him, especially when there really wasn't any emergency to attend to. While he typically avoided small talk in favor of keeping things concise and to the point, he figured that he could humor Sonic for the time being.

''Really?! That's great!'' Shadow's attention snapped back to Sonic, being caught slightly off guard by just how happy Sonic looked, his emerald green eyes almost sparkling. Shadow couldn't help but stare into his eyes, feeling once again that weird sense of warmth spreading through his body. This strange sensation was both scary due to its unfamiliarity, and captivating, and Shadow felt a desire to lean into it.

Sonic then started to talk, telling him tales about his adventures, which were mostly exploits against Dr. Eggman, usually in the company of his friends. Shadow listened intently, taking note of just how animated and excited Sonic got as he talked about what had happened, going into details about the events and battles he had been through, showing pride in his heroism and assurance that, no matter how bad things got, he always found a way out. It was quite a fascinating experience, as the stories were detailed enough for Shadow to be able to imagine them in his head, and the only times he interrupted Sonic to ask him questions about something particular. He took notice of Sonic's mannerism whenever he asked a question, with the azure hedgehog being always eager to explain things and basking in the attention he got from Shadow. It was as if the world around them had slowly faded away and it was just the two of them remaining.

''…never told you about it, but I'm really glad that I met you,'' Sonic said, only to suddenly pause, his expression changing to a more somber one. Shadow could see the lack of focus in his green eyes, now dull as he seemed to have been reminded of an experience he wanted to forget.

''Sonic?'' Shadow grew concerned, well aware that if Sonic ever went silent, it was obvious that things were bad. He lifted his hand instinctively, although he didn't make any further moves due to his own hesitance. Even though he had found himself feeling genuine worry for Sonic, going so far to comfort him, he could never make that crucial final step, no matter how much he tried.

''You know, when I saw you falling into The Void, it reminded me of…'' Sonic trailed off, guilt being reflected in his eyes. Shadow's ears drooped and his eyes widened when he realized what Sonic was referring to. Sonic took a deep breath, trying to continue the conversation, despite feeling as if someone placed a boulder on his chest, pressing him down, ''I thought I would lose you again. I couldn't save you when you fell to Earth, no matter how hard I tried, and I refused to let it happen again. I couldn't let it happen again, especially not when I had already lost so much because of my own mistakes.''

Sonic lowered his gaze, clearly still haunted by the memories of the past. He actually felt guilty for being unable to save Shadow after he had lost his Super Form and fell down to Earth, seemingly dying, and it was a burden he carried with himself for a while, even though he tried to push it out of his mind. He was glad that Shadow turned out to be alive, but this was something that still lingered on his mind, to the point that he had a full-blown panic-inducing flashback when he saw an unconscious Shadow falling into the darkest depths of The Void. Sonic placed his hand on his chest, his breath fast and shallow at the memory played out once again, and he could feel his heart beating rapidly. He could still hear his own desperate screams echoing in his head.

''No! No no no no! Shadow! SHADOW!''

''Sonic!''

Sonic gasped as he snapped back to reality, feeling as if he had been running for miles, his heartbeat as fast as back then. He registered a sense of weight on his shoulder and turned to Shadow, realizing that the dark hedgehog had placed his hand on his shoulder, trying to get his attention and break him out of his memory.

''I… I'm sorry…'' Sonic said, holding his breath as he tried to calm down, and forced a smile. ''I-I'm just glad that I had managed to save you this time. Heh.''

''Sonic, you're not fine,'' Shadow stated, his eyes narrowed in concern. He too remembered the moment he had tried to enter the gateway in the mistaken belief that the tech he stole from Sonic would grant him entrance to the Shatterspaces, and while he couldn't remember what happened after he fell unconscious, he did recall being in Sonic's arms, at least before the inevitable collision with one of the crystals. Even back then, Sonic tried to just blow it off as nothing, but it was clear now that this was something that weighted heavily on him.

''No, really, it's nothing…'' Sonic tried to assure him, but Shadow shook his head, giving him a firm look.

''I know what you're trying to do, and it's not working,'' he stated. Sonic's forced smile disappeared and he lowered his gaze.

''I guess that messed me up more than I thought,'' Sonic muttered.

''Even though my fall after the battle with Finalhazard was none of your fault,'' Shadow added. Sonic looked up back at Shadow, his eyes wide.

''No, I was trying to reach out for you. I was trying to save you! If I had only-'' Sonic protested, only to get cut off by Shadow.

''Sonic, I still remember that moment when you reached out to save me before I fell to Earth from the ARK, but it seems that what you have forgotten is that I had waved you away,'' Shadow told him. Sonic stared at him, speechless, trying to recall the moment as well. ''If I hadn't done that, you would have fallen with me. I appreciate your determination, even if you frustrate me to no end, but this was not your fault. I had chosen to let go, especially after all of the trouble I had caused because of my own mistaken beliefs.''

''Shadow…''

''I promised to myself that I would never forget that. Until I did,'' Shadow added, placing his hand against his temple, gritting his teeth and letting out a frustrated groan at his own issues with his memory. There was so much that was wrong with him, no matter how hard he tried. There was so much he tried to understand, but he felt like he'd always find himself at a dead end, always taking the wrong path. It felt so incredibly infuriating, despite all of his attempts to do the right thing. He then lowered his hand, sighing. ''So, as I said, don't ever think that any-''

Before Shadow could even finish the sentence, Sonic threw himself against him, burying his muzzle into Shadow's shoulder and wrapping his hands around torso, hugging him tightly. Shadow remained stunned and speechless at this move, unable to process what had just happened. His eyes darted towards Sonic as he tried to formulate a coherent thought, but nothing except a warm sensation of comfort filled his mind.

''Then, how about we avoid such scenarios in the future,'' Sonic said, still feeling the weight pressing against his chest. In that one moment, he couldn't think of anything else but to reach for Shadow and keep him close to himself, fearing that, if he let go, he would lose him again. What he didn't expect was that Shadow would wrap his hands around his back, pulling him closer.

''Yeah… The same goes for you,'' Shadow muttered, with Sonic lifting his head, still in Shadow's arms and meeting his stern gaze, crimson eyes observing emerald eyes intently. ''Your stunt with the Prism Energy, while necessary, was still idiotic beyond belief. You were lucky I was there to get you home before you vanished into nothingness.''

''Heh, so you were worried about me,'' Sonic said, cracking a soft smile. He tried to tease Shadow, but it was clear that the emotions between them were so raw that even acting as if what had happened wasn't a big deal was impossible. They had simply reached a point where any barrier they had built up between them was completely shattered. Any emotional vulnerability they wanted to hide from each other was now laid out for the other to see and it seemed to have sparked something inside them, something they still needed to process fully.

''Yeah, I was…'' Shadow said, his gaze fixed on Sonic. He still didn't understand why he allowed himself to show this side of him, the side that craved for someone he could trust, someone who could comfort him, but he knew that it was too late to back down. All the walls he had put between himself and Sonic were torn down, and he couldn't care less. Sonic was the reason he was still here, and he would be forever grateful for that.

Shadow's ears then flicked when Sonic snorted, giving Shadow a mischievous look. ''I always knew that you were a hugger.''

Shadow narrowed his eyes, feeling the familiar rush of frustration coursing through his body. He closed his eyes, speaking through his gritted teeth (with Sonic imagining an anime-like cross-popping vein appearing on his forehead), ''If you tell this to anyone, I swear I will kick your ass and throw you off the ARK with my own hands.''

''Yeah, you would,'' Sonic said casually, causing Shadow to look at him, only to notice a sly smirk on Sonic's lips. ''But, you would also catch me afterwards.''

Shadow just sighed, not wanting to answer that, as he and Sonic knew that this was the truth. It amazed and frustrated him to no end just how easily he lost his composure in Sonic's presence, becoming more and more open with his emotions. His rival really had knack for driving him up the wall with his constant antics and, to make it worse, Sonic was fully aware of it. Nevertheless, that was part of the charm of their rivalry and Shadow knew that things would not be the same without that aspect of their relationship.

He then snapped out of his thoughts when Sonic just pressed his head against the white fur on his chest, nuzzling it. ''Dude, you never told me that you had a cloud for chest fur. It's so soft!''

''You're really bold for someone who is about to get punched in the face,'' Shadow said in an irked tone. Sonic lifted his head, a sly smile appearing on his fawn lips.

''Oh, really? Then, why are you still holding me like you're afraid that I'm about to fade away?'' Sonic asked in a teasing tone, drawing attention to the fact that they still held each other in a tight embrace, with Shadow's hands being placed just under Sonic's back quills.

''Shut up,'' Shadow growled, clearly irritated by Sonic's smugness, but nevertheless, he pulled him even closer, digging his muzzle into Sonic's collarbone and enjoying the warmth that kept him comfort. Sonic was still smiling, although his expression became more soft as he understood that, despite everything that just transpired, Shadow still had trouble being honest about his emotions, putting up that intimidating look that kept most people away. Fortunately, Sonic wasn't like most people and he knew what kind of buttons to push to get a reaction from Shadow. He simply leaned into it, taking in the faint scent of lavender he came to associate with Shadow and listening to the faint sound of rain outside.

It seemed that the storm had finally lessened.

xXx

Shadow squinted, slowly blinking before opening his eyes. He was still in a daze, his eyes adjusting to the darkness. The first thing he took note of was the scent of freshness in the air, the kind that appears after rain. He gazed outside, realizing that the rainstorm had stopped and that the sky was dotted with stars. It was probably late in the night.

Shadow then turned his attention to the weight on his shoulder, realizing that it was Sonic. The azure hedgehog was still fast asleep, his head leaning against Shadow's collarbone, with Shadow having placed his arm around his waist to keep him in place. The dark hedgehog sighed, realizing that they had somehow fallen asleep like this, leaned against the wall. Shadow didn't feel too uncomfortable about this position, but he did wish he had been leaning against a pillow or something similar. Sonic, obviously, was quite comfortable using Shadow as a pillow.

How did we end up like this?

Only a few days ago, Shadow was furious at Sonic for his lack of awareness and reckless behavior in the face of danger, reprimanding him for not listening to anyone in a critical moment, which led to their reality fracturing. He never expected that their forced teamwork would lead up to them starting to understand each other better, to the point of being comfortable enough in each other's presence to open up to each other. He understood that their relationship was way more than just a simple rivalry and that there was a level of deep understanding between them, a rare relationship that can enter one's heart.

Shadow knew that this was a relationship that he couldn't let go of.

He took a look down at his lap, having just realized that Sonic had placed his own hand on top of his, his gloved fingers curled slightly over Shadow's knuckles. Shadow couldn't help but smile softly, shifting his hand so he could intertwine with fingers with Sonic's and leaned his head against Sonic's forehead. He then closed his eyes, drifting off to a peaceful sleep while holding Sonic's hand in his own.

Links:

#Previous Chapter

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#Next Chapter

#Sonic Cyber Revolution (Masterlist)

#Shatter Me #Sonic Cyber Revolution Analyzer #sonic prime #sonadow prime #shadow the hedgehog #sonic the hedgehog #sonadow #sonic adventure 2 #miles tails prower #rouge the bat #Happy Valentine's Day

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egg-emperor · 2 years

Note

I’m not the same anon, but I did skim through the Eggman video so might be missing a few things but here’s the summary. Eggman hasn’t been used well since SA2. He was wasted in Heroes and Shadow. He was boring in 06, Unleashed started out good but he though Eggman was a joke throughout most of it. He was nothing but a joke in Colors, Generations, and Lost world. View forces a step in the right direction but not enough. Says IDW improved him. Lol, clearly he’s not teeing the same thing we are.

Sorry for being late to this but thank you for the summary. (For anyone that doesn't know the context of what this is in response to, see this post.) I also think I accidentally deleted the other anon's ask that asked for my opinion in the first place after replying to it indirectly on my blog, oops. Well, I just hope they see this.

It's certainly agreeable that he was wasted and disrespected in Heroes and Shadow 2005, tossed aside in the worst of ways. In 06 he was treated as a side villain that didn't have a very big role and they toned down his humor and fun personality but I wouldn't say he was really bad or good writing-wise. But I can agree that none of those fully utilized him and had their flaws in his role and portrayal without much to make up for it plot-wise.

The best of Eggman in Unleashed was indeed in the intro but I personally don't think his portrayal in it past that was bad at all. Even though he made the mistake of letting the emeralds go (though I'm not really sure what he could've done to retrieve them before quickly throwing Sonic out), he tried to seek out the Gaia temples, prevent Sonic from restoring the emeralds and piecing the worlds back together by bringing out robots and guards throughout, and he had the idea of letting Gaia's pieces come to him instead. Then there was the gloriously fucked up Eggmanland with his twisted enjoyment in it and the Egg Dragoon fight that was intense and had a seriously furious and threatening Eggman that's commonly overlooked. The balance of humor still in there was totally fine to me.

Eggman certainly wasn't just a joke in Colors and his jokes were well written and hilarious anyway. :P Hellooo, the PAs? Even the in cutscene jokes get laughs out of me too. But he still took over the Wisps' home, captured and drained them of energy until they became negative beings, built an entire Interstellar Park that was fucked up and deadly, and created a mind control cannon that only backfired due to damage that wasn't his fault. And even then, he brought out the Nega Wisp Armor and fought for what he had left. What he did to the Wisps was cruel and he certainly was a threat with his mind control cannon and Nega Wisp Armor but just because he's also funny there, they dismiss it.

No idea what they mean with Generations because when Eggman seized the opportunity of his discovery of the Time Eater, teamed up with his past self, tried to go back and undo his mistakes by going back to stop Sonic through various points in time, and then had the Time Eater to face the Sonic's with, he was absolutely a threat and not just a joke. He was erasing and trying to rewrite the past and change the future! Are they dismissing all that just because he was enjoyably funny at the same time again?

Don't know what they mean with Lost World as he was actually one of the only more serious and well-written characters. He enslaved the Zeti using a rare conch of painful effects, had a machine that could harvest energy from the world to use in his creations, and could destroy it all if abused. It's not his fault Sonic jumped in and knocked the conch out of his hand and when the D6 turned against him and seized his creations, he had the brilliant idea of teaming up with Sonic and Tails to get back in control of things. At Frozen Factory he stood up to the D6 and threatened them without fear despite them having everything and him having nothing. And he faked his death to get to the extractor first and finally use the energy to power his Eggrobo to backstab Sonic after helping him get past the Zeti. All of that is proof he wasn't just a bumbling joke.

Forces was indeed great with some of the best moments in recent games. Despite the poor execution of everything writing-wise, his actual role and actions were still great ones. He'd successfully taken over the whole world and had Sonic captive for months, had Infinite, the phantom ruby, and all the illusions and clones on his side that could be utilized thanks to his researching and testing, the ability to adapt to the changes of classic Sonic and modern Sonic escaping and had multiple forms of impressive backup, and even tried to drop the illusion sun on them and fight them with a phantom ruby incorporated Death Egg Robot. The execution may have been bad but his success and great efforts in fighting to keep it was fantastic.

IDW literally took the exact things that made Forces Eggman great and did the exact opposite, ruining the development of him literally acknowledging and learning from his mistakes and his clever moments of backups and planning ahead, making him look so much more clueless, incompetent, and bigger of a joke and more disrespected than he's ever been in any game. I'm surprised by anyone that actually acknowledges the qualities of Eggman's Forces portrayal but then somehow praises IDW's direction when they just ignored and erased all of them. So yeaahhh, I really don't get what they're talking about there. XD

Now, I haven't watched the video to know how they worded things so perhaps I could be wrong. But from what you're describing, it seems their problem lies in Eggman being funny. ???? Aside from Heroes, Shadow 2005, and 06, if they're saying the main issue is that he's just a joke specifically then it certainly seems that way. Especially since, while Forces did give him a good role and show off his skills, it was also a game where they toned down the humor with him. He was great in Forces but him having less funny moments wasn't a part of why. They could've put more jokes in and I wouldn't have thought it was a bad thing, as long as the balance of him being the serious threat that he is was still there, which still has been apparent in the games all along.

Eggman is supposed to be silly and funny as he is evil, I'm not sure why people feel that removing that is what's needed to improve him. It's a shame that he seemingly isn't allowed to be humorous as well as threatening and evil, which I feel are both important for him to be his best and most entertaining. If he's funny then for some reason all they see him as is a joke, even though his plans and actions in the game are still evil and fucked up as ever, it's just that the lighthearted tone of the story don't allow as much focus on it. Eggman himself and his funny moments aren't the problems, I just think more focus and on-screen moments of his messed up evil plans again would be beneficial. That way more people would realize it never went away, it's just that they overlook it and only acknowledge the jokes. That doesn't mean they should rid of the latter.

Not sure why they think IDW is an improvement because while they may be making less jokes with him humor wise in some of his appearances, he's being made into a complete joke in the sense that they're pushing the idea that he's clueless, incompetent, and a bumbling fool. That's much worse than any actual joke dialogue and funny moments that they have in the games because they do it without making him look like a big idiot, though they'll claim it does just because he's being funny at all. But the jokes in the game can actually get a laugh about me, while IDW's mistreatment and slander that really turns his entire being into a joke is just sad to see. So to me, it seems like they got it backwards.

Again, I haven't watched the video and don't plan to due to its length and the way I prefer not to watch it in case it ends up bothering me, so I try not to seek it out when I see titles and descriptions like that. So perhaps I could be making incorrect assumptions based on this small summary alone but I was asked for my two cents and this is as much as I can give. Feel free to correct me if there's anything that points to their complaints being beyond the fact that he can also be a humorous character as much as he can be serious and evil but that's the impression I'm getting from what you're telling me here.

And in that case yes indeed, they're definitely not seeing what we see in him being one of the most consistently well written characters in the series that's still been a good and credible villain long after the Adventure games. And I think that he shouldn't be blamed for the overall change of tone and direction of lightheartedness and humor for the stories overall, as he never stopped being a seriously evil threat with clever evil plans and actions regardless. I love it when the evil Egg is funny too and it's never overshadowed and taken away from his evil in the recent modern games in my eyes.

#asks #dr eggman #eggman #dr robotnik #dr. eggman #opinion #my post #analysis

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solalunar-eclipse · 3 years

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Scars You Can’t See - Chapter 13

Chapter title: Finale

Word count: about 4200 words

Author’s Note: Thank you so much to everyone who’s read this fic. From the ones who were here at the beginning to the ones who joined in along the way, and even to the ones who are just reading this for the first time now: thank you! I really appreciate your support and willingness to read all about this idea of mine. I hope you enjoy the final chapter!

Warnings for nightmares and vague descriptions of violence, just in case.

First | Previous

...

In the end, another week or so was needed to finally get everything sorted out with G.U.N.- seven days which began to feel less and less stressful and more like an extended sleepover as time flew by. Eventually, though, the organization was shut down and most of their contacts closed off, leaving the country as safe as it could ever be for Teams Dark and Sonic to return.

Even as the former team began to move back into Club Rouge, setting up what little personal artifacts they had left (the suitcase they’d had was being shipped back to them from the motel in Central City where they’d left it), the club itself remained dark and empty, the three residents living above it still too wary to feel ready to reopen. Rouge, Shadow, and Omega spent about four days just living off their considerable savings and watching TV, attempting to get used to a somewhat normal life again after so long without it.

Rouge got to enjoy those late mornings she’d been hoping for, Omega was able to do his favorite activities without taking responsibility for the team anymore, and Shadow…

...there were good times and bad times, with him.

He would often find himself utterly at peace in some moments, cooking a meal after insisting that Rouge couldn’t eat takeout all the time as his two best friends shouted wildly at their newest favorite show, and he couldn’t help but smile at all the cheerfulness that surrounded him. But at the same time, he woke up screaming nearly every night, unable to stop seeing Rouge and Omega dragged off to an unknown fate by G.U.N., or worse, seeing them lifeless and sprawled on the floor, unable to do anything to save them at all….

Both his friends would always come into his room (they’d actually started sleeping in there now to help him better) and hold him until the panic dissipated, assuring him that they were alright and that there was nothing to be afraid of anymore.

This, however, wasn’t entirely true just yet.

One night, a would-be attacker (one of the last remnants of G.U.N.’s influence guiding them, most likely) picked the lock on the door and entered the club, sneaking across the ground floor. Rouge heard them first with her hyper-sensitive ears, whispering the situation quickly to Shadow. Suddenly, before she could stop him, he darted silently to the door, prepared to fight if necessary. The bat could defend herself just fine, of course, but he was still very much on edge.

It turned out that he didn’t need to worry, though, because as the intruder began to creep up the two flights of stairs, they glanced to their left on the darkened first floor. And spotted an absolutely terrifying pair of glowing red eyes staring at them from the darkness.

That alone would have been enough to make them scream and leave rapidly (they weren’t by any means as trained as some of G.U.N.’s other contacts) but Omega saw fit to point two charging laser cannons at them, too, and quite honestly even Sonic would’ve been surprised at the speed with which that intruder ran.

After that, Rouge decided that she’d had enough relaxing for a while and that she needed some structure in her life, so she opened up the club again and started it working (albeit on a limited basis, she wasn’t quite prepared for a full schedule yet). The well-known hotspot had been sorely missed, as evidenced by the large number of customers- and tips. The bat was delighted to see some of her favorite regulars again, and they were more than happy to accept the shortened hours just so long as it stayed open.

Eventually, though, as it became clear that the bat was fully prepared to just sweep the stress of this adventure under the rug and go back to daily life as it was before, she ended up subjected to quite a few discussions from Omega, Knuckles and even Sonic about her...habits. They were all too aware of how much strain she’d been under during their time on the run, not to mention all of the verbal attacks and physical stress she’d had to deal with beforehand. At first, she managed to brush it off, insisting that she was perfectly fine and that this sort of thing wasn’t necessary at all.

Omega had cornered her one day in her room though, with only a single sentence to say: “Think about the example you’re setting for Shadow.”

Rouge’s ears drooped slightly in guilt as she realized just how much a) Shadow based some of his behaviors off of her and b) how vehemently he had opposed the idea of therapy when it was first mentioned.

She sighed quietly. “Just one. For Shadow. And nothing’s going to come of it, you hear me?”

Two days later, she walked into the office calmly, her cool business face on and her skepticism high. The therapist she met with was young, friendly, and quite earnest and eager to help her in any way they could. As they listened to the story of her life, though, their face twisted in concern. “I understand you enjoy your job and the risks that come with it...but all those awful things people have said to you- that’s terrible!”

Rouge shrugged her shoulders. “It’s part of the job, y’know? Just have to grin and bear it.”

They looked down at their desk quietly. “How long have you been ‘grinning and bearing it’ for, exactly?”

“....a while.”

Rouge left the office after a little more talking with a distinct feeling of unease in her chest. She drove home quietly, with none of the usual music or radio that she liked on. The bat remained absolutely silent as she entered the house, too, which was the first major sign to both of her friends that something was wrong.

Shadow and Omega appeared at her side quickly, asking her what had happened and what was wrong (with quite a few threats of violence to the person who had upset her) which unfortunately had the opposite effect to what they were hoping for and instead just made her eyes start to water a little.

“Rouge, what’s going on?” Shadow asked, worried, as he pulled her over to the couch.

She managed to calm herself relatively quickly, and eventually found the words to explain how the biting words she heard every day cut deeper than she let on. How she took on mountains of emotional stress because she was the leader, and the oldest, and it was her responsibility.

The bat quickly tried to add that neither of them needed to worry about this, it was fine, that she was still the oldest and she’d accepted that responsibility and she could work out the stress on her own. As Omega began to insist on providing various objections to every last one of those arguments, Shadow vanished, only to return within a couple of minutes with a bag of mystery supplies.

“Today’s your off day, right?” he asked, with a determined look in his eyes.

“Yes, hon.” she said quietly. “I should probably go do the shopping at some point-”

“After therapy? No way.” Omega declared, putting a hand on her head and pushing her back down onto the couch after she’d started to get up.

“I’ll go shopping tomorrow.” Shadow said calmly. “I remember you haven’t been to the spa in a long time, and even if we can’t make you an appointment this late, we can still do something else.”

Omega pulled a packaged ‘hydrating and exfoliating face mask’ from the bag, holding it by the corner and looking as confused as he could possibly get. “I have no idea what this does, but if you like it then that’s fine, I suppose.” he said, handing it back to Shadow gingerly.

“Aww, guys, you don’t have to-” she insisted, disliking the idea of them having to do any work regarding her own emotional burdens.

“Yes we do.” they said in sync.

“And this needs to be at least a biweekly occurrence, too.” Omega declared.

“A Rouge day?” Shadow asked. “I agree.”

The bat protested weakly, but allowed herself to be dragged upstairs, and various soaps with relaxing scents to be placed in her hands. “And here’s a bath bomb. Or, uh, three.” The hybrid looked sheepish. “I don’t know which kind you like.”

“And do not come out until you are sufficiently relaxed.” Omega ordered her, before pushing her into the bathroom gently.

Rouge gave a quiet yet fond sigh as she looked down at the various self-care items in her hands. Those two could really be stubborn sometimes, whether about fighting or friendship.

Quickly, she swung open the door and gave them both a hug, then vanished back inside the bathroom before either could react.

The rest of the day was spent taking care of Rouge, whether it was Shadow painting her nails or Omega agreeing to watch her favorite show that night (even if he couldn’t seem to understand why people in drama shows didn’t just do what they wanted instead of agonizing about it so much). That definitely wasn’t the end of it, though.

Eventually, she managed to go back for a few more sessions just to straighten things out and figure out how to care for herself better in the long run. It didn’t hurt, either, that anytime Shadow or Omega caught someone insulting her (and her ignoring it), whether it be for her looks or her interest in a store’s jewelry, they would verbally tear into the person with such fury that Rouge was nearly embarrassed…

...but not quite. It felt good to be looked out for, she had to admit, and they were showing how much they cared about her in their own way.

It turned out that Shadow was showing it in another way, too, albeit one she didn’t notice at first. One day, as she checked through her finances, the bat realized that her bank account had begun to grow too quickly to be normal. When she checked through her balance, she discovered that someone was adding mystery payments every Friday.

Rouge found out why one afternoon when she came back from shopping early to discover Shadow standing in the living room, pulling off some sort of light green shirt and draping it over the back of a chair as he moved to the kitchen (probably for some coffee beans).

“Something you need to tell me, hon?” she asked, and was only slightly surprised when he yelled in shock, hands crackling with Chaos energy before he realized it was her.

“Ugh...Rouge, don’t scare me like that…” he sighed.

“You didn’t answer my question, Shadow.” she shot back.

He shuffled around nervously, seeming unwilling to provide her with a straight answer. Once he realized that there was no getting out of this, though, her sensitive ears picked up the sound of the hybrid gulping briefly before taking a deep breath. “I...I’ve been working part-time arranging flowers.” he said, rushing the words out as though that would keep her from understanding them.

“Honey, you know you don’t have to do that- we still have enough money to handle the club’s current hours for a while longer…” she began, worrying that he was pushing himself too hard.

Shadow folded his arms. “Keeping us afloat isn’t all up to you, remember? And I actually enjoy it- it’s kind of calming.” he said, almost defiantly.

“If you insist.” she replied. “But make sure not to mess up your schedule, you know you need to make sure you’re getting your rest after everything.”

The hybrid rolled his eyes. “I’m the Ultimate Lifeform, I don’t need-”

“Wrong answer.” Omega said from the doorway, folding his arms and glowering at Shadow. Rouge had an expression to match, seeming pretty distressed by what he’d said.

“Shadow, hon, you keep using that title as an excuse not to take care of yourself, and that’s just as unhealthy as me ignoring people who try and bother me.” she said softly. “I...think you should really consider talking to the same person I did- it’s really helped, you know that.”

The hybrid sulked in the car on the way to the office a couple days later, but didn’t actively attempt to resist, so he probably knew that Rouge was right. He told his story to them in the most calm, nonchalant manner he could pull off, though his friends did take over the story occasionally when his voice trailed off.

By the end of it, the young mouse was frowning at their desk again. “Honestly, I’m...I’m speechless. The fact that so many people were willing to treat you so badly- it’s horrible. So...I’m really glad you’re here, and I’ll do my best to help you however I can.”

Shadow was a little touched by this amount of concern from what was essentially a stranger, though he remained resistant to their suggestions at first. However, a day or two later, he had yet another nightmare- and a bad one too. Ordinarily, he’d just ignore it and lie awake for hours trying to get back to sleep, but this time, he happened to recall what the therapist had said.

“It’s okay to ask for help, Shadow. You deserve it just as much as anyone else- no matter what some people may have said.”

He tried to avoid the thought, but his mind wouldn’t rest and he couldn’t even begin to relax. (Truthfully, he was too scared to, in case the nightmares came back.) Guiltily, he got up, shuffled over to Rouge’s room, and opened the door quietly. It took him a long moment to even work up the nerve to walk over to her bedside, but eventually he did. He shook her awake gently by the shoulder, unwilling to meet her eyes.

“Oh, Shadow….” was all she said, before pulling him gently under the blankets with her and holding him tight.

The hybrid felt so pathetic and childish, yet he still buried his face in the crook of her neck, letting out a quiet sniffle. He could smell a mixture of her perfume and shampoo, and it calmed him slowly, as did the feeling of her arms around him. Eventually, he managed to fall back asleep to the sound of her breathing, and spent the rest of the night in relative peace.

When Shadow woke up early in the morning and Omega was right beside the bed, one of his hands resting comfortingly on his side, he didn’t even question it. He just placed his hand right over one of the giant metal fingers before resting a while longer, a small smile on his face.

As the days continued and the two Mobians started taking care of themselves more- with lower stress levels and many more peaceful nights as a result- Shadow finally even worked up the nerve to spend some time with Omega at the firing range.

They had made careful plans. There were noise-canceling earmuffs available for free upon entry, and Shadow wouldn’t even be in the same room as most of the weaponry. He had a katana sword and he knew where the practice dummies were, and that was enough.

They’d be able to see each other through a glass window and wave (and show off, of course). So while Shadow approached the building with a slight air of trepidation, he also felt rather excited to be able to work on his fighting skills once again, especially with his friend.

That is, until the attendant at the desk refused to give him the headset when he asked for it.

“You have to rent an item to get the free headphones,” the young woman said, looking bored and generally unsympathetic. “That’s the rule.”

“I don’t see anything saying that.” Shadow shot back, but inside he felt more nervous than anything. He couldn’t stay here if he didn’t get that equipment, but he’d really wanted to spend some time with Omega today…

The robot appeared behind him surprisingly quickly, wrenching aside the attendant’s computer to glower at her better. “I have seen others come in here and get headsets for free while bringing their own weapons, so you had better have a good explanation for why you refuse to give him one.”

“He’s got a sword,” she pointed out unhelpfully, “so he shouldn’t even need one. Headsets are only for people with projectile weapons, anyway.”

Omega’s fingers tightened on the counter until they made a noticeable scraping sound. The attendant winced and even the otherwise impassive Shadow’s ears twitched at the noise.

He lifted up his hand, revealing deep scratches in the stainless steel. “You should think about being fair and providing Shadow with a headset now. Before I become really irritated.”

“That’s- I shouldn’t have to make an exception, he isn’t going to be on the firing range!”

“He does and you should. My friend does not do well with the sound of gunfire, so he deserves to have one. Right. Now.” Omega insisted, glaring at her.

“Well, if he doesn’t like guns then he shouldn’t be here.” she said irritably. “I’m not giving him one. And that’s final.”

The robot turned away suddenly and stalked towards the door. “Then I refuse to spend one moment longer in this building. Congratulations on losing your establishment some money.”

Shadow followed his friend, feeling more than a little like he’d just experienced some sort of verbal whiplash. “Wait...what just happened?”

“I decided that this place is clearly not good enough to deserve our patronage. We can find somewhere else to spend our time.”

“But I thought this was the best place in the area- I don’t want to make you miss out…” Shadow said, feeling bad for his friend.

Omega put a heavy arm around Shadow’s shoulders. “Amenities mean nothing to me if the people there insist you suffer in the process.”

The hybrid leaned against his friend, grateful. “Thank you, Omega.”

(They did eventually find a new- if slightly less upscale- place to go, and Omega managed to hit fifteen bulls-eyes in a row before being informed that they didn’t quite have the money for prizes there. Shadow enjoyed being able to use his sword, and he got significantly more respect on the way out of the building as opposed to the general confusion and mild derision he’d received on the way in...particularly after he defeated one of the most respected patrons in five minutes flat.)

…

Nearly a month and a half after Team Dark left Angel Island, Sonic set up a little party with some friends to celebrate their general success, as well as their slow steps to getting better, day by day. The team had been pretty reclusive and slightly paranoid as of late, so this was their first proper social outing in a long while.

Once they got over to Sonic’s house, all three members of Team Dark were immediately greeted with a shriek of “GUYS!”, followed by the sudden appearance of one cheerful pink hedgehog. “Rouge, Omega, Shadow, hi! How are you guys? Do you need anything?” Amy Rose asked, managing to simultaneously be cheerful, sympathetic, and doting in a way only she ever could.

“We’re doing better all the time, hon. Thank you.” Rouge answered kindly, while Omega waved at her and Shadow offered up a quiet nod.

Amy wasn’t deterred by the latter’s behavior- she’d spent enough time with him to know that they were pretty good friends and that he was probably just a little overwhelmed, so she gave him his space. Blaze greeted them all politely as they entered the living room as well from her seat on the couch, but was quickly overshadowed by the other spacetime traveler present for the party.

Silver dashed over to the group, looking them all up and down worriedly. Upon seeing that they were mostly unharmed, albeit tired, he focused his attention on his personal hero and occasional mentor on Chaos techniques (Shadow).

“Are- are you going to be okay?” he asked worriedly, hovering (both literally and figuratively) around the other hedgehog. “Silly question, sorry, I just, if you’re not okay then I’m here if you need-”

“Silver.” Shadow cut the psychic off, but in a gentle manner. “I think I’ll be alright. If I’m ever not, though, I’ll keep your offer in mind. Thank you.”

“Okay.” He sighed, his nervous energy dissipating. It was replaced by a smile almost instantly, though, as he added, “Okay! I’m just so glad you guys managed to stop G.U.N. and everything. And that you’re alright now!”

Shadow offered him a small smile. “So am I.”

Soon after, Omega hurried down to Tails’s workshop with a shout of “What have you been working on? I need to see everything right now” and Rouge busied herself with scaring the living daylights out of Knuckles by sneaking up on him from behind. Meanwhile, Sonic stepped into Silver and Shadow’s conversation, at ease with both of them and enjoying the party. “You got some food yet?” he asked the hybrid, smiling warmly at him.

“No…?” Shadow said cautiously.

“Oh, man! There’s so much, you’ve gotta try everything!” Sonic exclaimed, dragging Shadow into the kitchen with one hand while Silver did the same with the other.

Moments later, he found himself with a plate filled with every kind of food available in the kitchen, from french fries to mini-sandwiches to cupcakes. Shadow startled slightly upon realizing that everybody else seemed to have brought several nice foods, and all his team had thought to bring was a bottle or two of soda. “I apologize for our lack of food-” he began, feeling somehow as though he should have done better, but Sonic silenced him quickly.

“Dude, no way! We’re having this party for you guys anyway because of all the stressful work you went through!”

Silver chimed in quickly. “We didn’t ask you guys to bring food because we didn’t want you to worry- you’ve done more than enough work for a long time.”

Shadow, in response, quickly shoved a mini-sandwich into his mouth to keep himself from saying anything too emotional.

Later, as they all settled down to watch the pilot episode of an old but well-known TV show, the hybrid found himself squeezed in between Rouge on one side, still flirting with Knuckles (punctuated by the occasional check-in on Shadow) and Sonic on the other side, in a surprisingly intense argument with Blaze about whether or not this show, Nebula Expedition: The Following Age, was better than the original.

Omega, meanwhile, was trying his best not to utterly crush the beanbag chair on the floor he’d been given after the couch had nearly tipped over the moment he sat down. Tails was leaned against him, while Amy, Blaze and Silver shared the other sofa.

Suddenly, Sonic turned to him, his expression intense and serious. “Shadow. This is the most important question you’re gonna answer all week. Which show is better: The Following Age or the original?”

The hybrid shook his head, a smile appearing on his face despite his best attempts to ignore it. It was crazy to think that he’d gone from the most important question of the week being “Am I going to be captured by G.U.N. and imprisoned?” to “Which show is better?”, and he couldn’t help but allow a laugh to escape him. It was just a quick little snicker, but it was enough for Sonic’s eyes to widen and for him to grin.

“What’s that all about?” he asked, half joking and half serious, leaning his shoulder on Shadow’s. “You think this question’s a joke? Your answer’s really important here, y’know!”

“Well, for your information…” the hybrid began.

Sonic leaned in a little closer. “Yeah?”

“I like Asteroid Battle the best. Only the originals, though.”

The hero gave a cry of dismay and flopped back against the couch, throwing his hands up in the air. “Asteroid Battle? Asteroid Battle?? That wasn’t even an option!” he cried. “It’s not even in the same franchise, for Chaos’ sake!”

“Too bad.” Shadow replied smugly, folding his arms and still smiling. “Because that’s the one I like best.”

Sonic smacked him on the arm and heaved a dramatic sigh. “Well, too bad to both you and Blaze, because it’s my TV and I get to pick the show.”

Shadow wasn’t the least bit bothered about that as he settled in to watch, surrounded by his friends and safe as he could be. This atmosphere- of cheer and kindness and laughter- this was what he’d wanted to be able to enjoy all along.

He wasn’t entirely there yet- and maybe he would never be able to know the freedom that came when people didn’t carry the memories he did. But in the end, he couldn’t say that he regretted that burden too greatly. Even through all the bad, he had enough good in this world that it was all worth the struggle in the end, if he got to be here, now, in this place with the people he cared for most.

Shadow met Rouge’s eyes briefly, and then Omega’s, hoping that the words he couldn’t say right now would be understood.

Thank you both so much. For being there for me, through the good times and the bad. For being happy with me and sad with me. For standing by me when I decided to take on the largest military organization in the world, and afterwards as well. Just...thank you.

For everything.

#shadow the hedgehog #rouge the bat #e 123 omega #team dark #sonic the hedgehog #miles tails prower #knuckles the echidna #(don't think i can tag all of them)#sycs #scars you can't see #sol's fanfiction #thank you all so much for reading!! i really really appreciate it #also as always please let me know if i've misrepresented anything (especially the mental health parts)#while i didn't get to explore shadow's flower shop job as much as i would've liked he certainly likes it more than working for gun #if you can guess what the tv shows/movies are that they're talking about at the end then good on you!#also for the last comment:#i was working on characterizing silver and figured i should probably check out the wiki #five minutes later i found myself rewatching shadow and silver pose during the mario & sonic olympic games for the third time #it counts as research right?#right???

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cutegirlmayra · 3 years

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Random AU Sonamy cause you know what?

Prompt:

It was time to go.

That other dimension… I didn’t figure I’d come back, but I couldn’t let my friends know that.

They each saw through me though, first with Tails and that Team Chaotix. Although Tails tried to send me off with as much hope as he could muster without shedding a tear, his entourage were wiping their tears without holding back or hiding. I respected them for it, but Tails even more, for how brave he wanted to be for me.

“Don’t worry, I’ll take of this…” I slowly raised my hand, expecting myself to say, ‘See ya around!’ but couldn’t muster it this time… instead, I just held it up… and let it flop down as though trying to act just as cool as my little dude.

I kicked the ground with a hop in my step as I moved back and raced off, heading to the next group, which were waiting to hold the portal for me when it opened.

“You’re a brave soul, Sonic… I’ve admired you for that.” Was probably the only directly nice thing Shadow ever said to me. Don’t get me wrong, he’s a swell guy! If you minus all the shady things he did in his ‘awakened’ life outside of Dr. Gerald Robotnik, but I could tell he was trying to be respectful too.

“Hey, it’s not that big of a sacrifice. Besides! With me gone, you’ll finally have a reason to show up!” I gave a goofy grin and put my hand to his shoulder, swaggering up with a wobble of my head and jerked upwards a thumbs-up from my hand.

He actually gave me a crooked smile for a moment… before dispersing off again with Rouge and Omega, looking disheartened.

Rouge looked like she wanted to say something, maybe ‘Be careful, Sonic’ but she didn’t quite get it out in time.

She stepped forward and put her hands to her chest, but as Shadow passed, looked down and decided not to say it. ...Probably for the best, I was getting sick of half-meanings. I wasn’t coming back, and the slim chance I could, I would be barely alive to tell the tale.

As she turned, something triggered in my mind. ‘Oh yeah… I’m forgetting someone.’ I felt myself getting reluctant. The person she reminded me of… the person that would definitely not be okay with any false hope, generalized chit-chat, and who wouldn’t hold her tongue back on how she felt about it.

Neither her tears… She would be the one to say, ‘Come back, Sonic.’ without a shred of regret.

I felt a hand on my shoulder, and lifted my head up from that realization that I would have to face her… and convince her… of letting me leave…

For good this time.

“It’s not like you to look so gloomy, Sonic.” Knuckles… the only one who really wouldn’t put on a front that was fake.

I turned to him and flicked my nose, as we stood and faced each other, saying more with our stares into the other’s soul then any ‘not saying it’ goodbyes everyone else was trying to hold back.

He shakingly held up a hand, and seeing him about to lose himself, I took it immediately, giving him strength to help him rise up and stay strong.

He nodded, but couldn’t look back in my eyes… he was probably gonna cry somewhere off on Angel Island… and I… preferred it that way.

I gave a strong pull and tightened my grip on the embraced hands, giving him a strong look, and he finally smiled with a ‘tsk’, realizing I wasn’t gonna let him go till he could do it.

He returned the gesture and smirked, narrowing his eyes back into mine.

‘That’s it, buddy. Don’t falter the good fight.’ I thought to myself as we held that position for a moment, and finally… he let me go.

“Safe travels… but that would be an understatement.” He folded his arms, still smiling, before looking his head to the ground and concealing his smile… “Tails told me he wanted to say more to you… I would let him.”

“...Haa..!” I breathed out and arched my back towards the ground, not really wanting to face another hard goodbye so soon… but if it meant holding off from confronting Amy… I would do it. “Guess everyone’s taking my vacation kinda hard, huh?” I joked, but Knuckles just grabbed my head and started rough-housing his glove against my spiky quilled head.

“Get in a tan while you’re at it! You’re too pale skinned!” he gruffed.

I tried to push my head up but he kept it down, “H-hey! Knuckles!” but I did get a glance up… and let him keep my head down…

I could see water streaming down his muzzle like a cascading waterfall… guess I was bound to see it. No use keeping it all together and within.

With Knuckles and Tails… I embraced them, closing my eyes as Tails finally said what he really wanted to.

“I won’t forget you!” He cried out, gripping my back tightly. “I will be everything you believed me to be! I will protect the planet and things we love most, and I won’t let Eggman get away with this!”

‘Hang in there, buddy.’ I just lightly patted his back, about two or three, but was really starting to feel the toll now.

My eyes felt droopy, I was losing energy…

“You’re not gonna be alone! In that dimension, I’m sure you’ll meet others that look like us too! They’ll be there to support you, I’m sure of it!” Tails’s comforts only gave me a greater stone in my heart, but I knew he was only trying to help.

“Thanks, buddy. Take care of yourselves.” I pulled away but felt Tails resisting.

I paused as Knuckles saw I couldn’t show Tails my face… and took his arm.

“Come on, kid. He’s got a whole galaxy and then some to save.” Knuckles helped pulled Tails off and redirect his tears and anguish onto himself, having him coil up with his tails around Knuckles and start banging his chest.

“He doesn’t have to go alone! We could go with him!” he cried out, as I froze in my spot… tired. Too tired to even walk ahead… to be away from hearing it… to be away from my friends who were as close as family to my lonely self now… though I’d never admit it out loud.

“...Then who’d be here, Tails? Guarding the Master Emerald? Saving this world?” Come on, don’t give him--or me--that.” He patted his back strongly, “Stay strong, kid. We’ve gotta show him off with strength, it’s that strength he’ll need for the coming battle.”

“R-right…” Tails fought through his tears and turned around, “Sonic… We’re with you. You have our strength.” he held up his fists,... but I didn’t feel strength.

I felt so… weak.

I felt my body wanting to just submit but I wouldn’t let it.

I gave a sharp nod behind me, letting it linger, showing my friends nothing was going to phase me… and took off.

I couldn’t face Amy.

How could I?

I almost collapsed to my knees unable to move from everyone else!

However… my feet brought me to her home, and by now, it was pretty late at night.

She had no idea.

She didn’t know I was leaving, how long I’d be… how I needed her to move on.

A part of me hated to imagine that. But as I approached the home, the lights were out, and I felt a moment of relief.

‘Sleeping…’ my eyes lowered, as I tenderly and sorrowfully looked up to her window. ‘Quietly… peacefully… I shouldn’t disturb it.’

I felt so weary… tired of saying so many goodbyes without actually saying the stupid word.

I hated it.

The tears… the fear no one was admitting… the unknown was now looming over my fate, and at first I felt prepared… but now… I just wanted to get it over with.

‘Keep my friends safe first, then move on.’ I tightened my fist, finding a resolve. ‘I’ve gotta at least see her… Even if it is the last time…’

I felt power rising back to my bones, my muscles tensing and getting ready. I zoomed off to pick a flower, one I had always found to be Amy’s favorite--and well, might as well admit mine too--and took off to a tree branch right at her window.

I was off-balance, flailing a bit as I only had the tip of my shoe to steady myself on the ledge of her bedroom window, but putting the flower in my mouth I started to squeeze my fingers through the small crack under the plane.

It gave way, at last, not being locked.

I slowly rose it up after a few tugs and darted in, rolling on the ground with my quills as a cushion to make sure I landed swiftly but didn’t cause a stir.

Not much of a sound, besides the tumbling of my feet back to the ground.

I rose up and looked to my side…

Even in the night air, her quills swayed in blissful ignorance of the current situation. Her soft breaths lured me in and back, as my feet began to softly tread forward towards her.

I passed her nightstand, with a picture of us holding up peace-signs and hearts with our fingers and thumbs, just something goofy we did at some park or whatever.

Near it, a vase of the flowers I usually brought her. Some were wilted, yikes. I had kinda hoped I would visit at least enough times so she could switch them out frequently enough to not keep the dead ones.

I flinched at that imagery and thought… she kept the dead ones… when I didn’t replace them fast enough… and visit her often.

I took the flower out of my mouth and gently was about to place it on her nightstand… but stopped.

Time froze then, as my eyes darted up.

I won’t accept this.

I pulled back the flower to me and squinted my eyes, turning away from the picture and bent flowers, balding as their petals lay around the vase’s bottom…

I was getting irritated. Amy was the last, I had to do more than this. It wouldn’t be fair… no matter how much I dread it… I can’t just leave her without her final words…

I lightly pressed the freshly picked flower up to my muzzle… taking in it’s scent and thinking how I was going to do this… efficiently… without her suspecting this was my final farewell…

To lose her… to knowly have her lose me…

How to word this… how to even plan this?

All of that faded when I took another glance at her.

My serious expression was replaced with silent admiring.

She was so loyal. Any man would be crazy not to see her fidelity.

...She’d move on without me…

Find someone to love, Amy? I couldn’t say that, it almost made me gag to think about it. Plus, I’d think about it in hindsight once I’m floating in the nethersphere and realize that was too boldly assuming Amy could find anyone besides her miraculous gift at always locating me.

Be loved, Amy? As if no one does, that’s just cruel. She’s constantly surrounded by people and friends that adore her. No… No, I couldn’t say that.

She’d stir and think something was wrong with either of those lines…

I tapped the flower against my muzzle, further watching her quills sway gently in the blowing breeze, as though comforting her from the heat of the moment she was so innocently unaware of.

‘Alright,’ I finally said, having taken long enough time to figure this out. I hadn’t thought about any of my goodbyes this long because the people were already awake and holding up fronts. No fronts here… Just Amy. Sleeping. Waiting patiently for me to come by and replace a dozen of her dying roses…

Man, this was hard.

I leaned my head back and felt myself wincing at the idea I had come up with. Fool her into thinking she was dreaming? It could work, since Amy often daydreams and would go, ‘Is this a dream?’ quite frequently.

Yeah… That outta do it.

I sighed, this would still be faking it unless…

I twirled the stim of the flower between my two finger tips…

Unless I put the front down.

I looked away… I knew what I was talking about, duh.

But… that would be hard. I’m normally really shy about expressing my feelings, especially when it comes to receiving admiration or… Well, or this.

I lightly kissed the flower for good luck, winked to try and get myself into a romantic mood, but also took a long breath in and harshly let it out in a bit of stubbornness to prepare myself for speaking with my heart over my image…

Her hero… deserves to send himself off after wishing her goodnight.

I moved to her bedside and decided it was best to bend to one knee, at least, she may find it endearing.

Lightly, I teased her awake gently by brushing the rose over her eye, twiddling it before lightly stroking her face like it was a paint brush.

She gave little, soft groans of discomfort, tenderly waking up as I smiled in eagerness to see her again.

I didn’t want to think this was the last time, nor play it out like that.

I wanted, at least this one, to be genuine but disguised as a wishful, whimsical dream she was having. I could… send myself off knowing she was happy.

That was the way I wanted it to be. An ideal.

Amy crying in my arms and me having to hold her till it was time to go was too painful to even bare a thought of!

I didn’t want to waste my time trying to comfort when this wasn’t something that anyone could be comforted on!

Strength… Knuckles spoke of strength?

I tsked, I didn’t want to leave Amy with ‘strength’ or take anyone else’s strength when they needed all the help they could get!

They already mustered everything together to see me off, I wouldn’t bare it again, I would never let Amy bare that either…

Maybe she’d hate me when she fully came too, realized what had happened, and sob for centuries…

I felt something stab at my throat, and I forced myself to swallow after a few failed attempts.

‘Don’t cry, Amy… I want to make that very clear.’ I thought I could do this, but seeing her blink her eyes open made me realize how I really just wanted to flee from this whole ordeal.

I didn’t want to break Amy’s heart. Even knowing she’d cry later was just as equally tormenting than having her do so in front of me now.

I wouldn’t break her heart… but I probably should. I wouldn’t dwell too much on it. Amy’s a big girl now, she’ll have to come around and realize that I’m not coming back-

I couldn’t finish my thoughts as she rubbed her eyes and yawned, looking over to me.

“...Emm… Sonic?”

Now was my last chance… to tell her everything or… at least, not put up the charades anymore.

“Heya.” I whispered, finding a smile I didn’t realize I still had. “Long time no see.”

She looked a bit confused, maybe still half-way through dreamland, but relaxed back and took my hand holding the flower, “Flowers~” she giggled, and suddenly my entire night was made.

“Yeah, just for you.” I played, dangling the flower above her head and watched her drowsily paw at it like a cat would a string. She scrunched her nose up, still snickering as though trying to laugh but her lungs hadn’t woken up that far yet.

“I like it.” she yawned again, and her batting reach grew lesser and lesser until I handed her the flower. “I missed you.” her grip on my hand was so light… I didn’t realize how the touch would send me into such immediate, gripping grief.

My heart was being choked, man, I’m so dramatic! I never knew I could feel this intensely about something like saying goodbye to everyone!

It wasn’t goodbye… If I told myself that, I could do it!

“I-” I felt my voice get constrained and had to take a moment to wipe my own face and get a grip. ‘Keep it together, Sonic… or she’ll know.’ I pep-talked myself and shook my head, “I thought you would.”

“Hehe… You’re still funny.” she let her sluggish finger poke and slide around my face, making me watch her with a puzzled but funny look that continued to keep her laughing.

“Am I still in a dream?”

That… made me so happy.

“Well, depends.” I stated, getting comfortable as I moved from my knee to squatting by her side, inching closer and pulling my hands back to give my heavy head some leverage… more than what I could do for my heart at this point. “What was going on in your dream?”

“Hmm…” she thought a second, almost closing her eyes and drifting back to sleep.

Maybe that was for the best… but…

I kinda didn’t want it to end.

“Amy..?” I lightly called out to her as her eyes twitched slightly and she graced me again with their vision… green… darker than mine, but emerald like the sea below Angel Island… highlighted by it’s chaotic glow.

“We were… having a picnic… in Spagonia, maybe?” she rubbed her eyes, still having the other hand holding mine.

“Ah, I remember that!” I instantly found myself looking up, and my spirits soar. “You were so obsessed with the architecture! You barely ate, you had so much to say about how beautiful it all was.”

“Well, it was..!” she lazily commented, her eyes trying to fight the sleep. I didn’t feel bad about keeping her somewhat awake though… I realized… I needed this. I needed this too.

“Amy… You were beautiful there too.” My words I had never uttered allowed, now made me think back and remember all the times I’ve thought it, but wouldn’t dare speak it out loud. “But you know that, don’t you?” I smiled even wider, seeing her pause a second as though falling back to sleep or in disbelief.

“This is a dream!” she exclaimed and started laughing as though evilly, “Then come to bed. I need a good cuddle…”

I looked away and had to hide my snickering, I never knew Amy could be scandalous! ...scratch that, I never knew she would DREAM of something so ridiculous!

“How about just your hand?” I cradled it with both mine, seeing her fiddle with the flower and press it right up to her nose. I worried it’s strong scent would wake her up… but it didn’t. I tossed her dead-weighted hand around and toyed with her a moment, before lowering my head to it, and letting her own scent trail its way into my memory and feel her warmth from the bed’s covers override my own heated anxiety.

“Amy… I-” I felt my eyes growing sleepy too… All the times I could have just teased her by climbing over the covers and laying beside her… how I wanted that more than ever, to just… take a nap and let each other hold the other… No images, no expectations… just.... Tired. “I missed you too.”

“Hmm?” she was waking up more, I needed to make this quick.

“Heh,” In the moments I had had with her… this was bound to be the best, though bittersweet, of my favorites. “I’m gonna miss you… but I need you to go back to sleep now, finish that wonderful dream of yours… and never stop having it.” I couldn’t tell her to move on. Gosh dang it, I couldn’t!

I was holding her hand, I was letting it rest right up against my face and I- … I-!!!

I was getting to invested in this goodbye.

I speedily let go of her hand and got up, startling her awake.

“H-huh?”

I gripped my fists tightly, “This was a mistake.” I looked away, “I can’t stay here… I can’t say these things anymore.”

“Sonic..?”

“I have to go away now, Amy.” I couldn’t be sweet to her, I’d ruin her!

“What… why?” she started to turn on the bed, “Is this… real?”

A real nightmare. I was gonna die. I knew it. Even if I lived, I would be stuck in another dimension with no way out.

Tails… Even if there was another Tails, Knuckles, and-... And Amy! I would owe it to her but..! But..!

“If I find you again… I won’t hold back anymore, alright?” I didn’t want to make a promise.

“What..? N-no…” She started to sit up on her bed, and I rushed to put the covers back over her, hoping to convince her to go back to bed.

“No other will do… that’s wrong, isn’t it?” I had seen people who looked like my friends in other dimensions… it was foolish of me to think that would suffice. Amy… if she knew what I was saying, she’d probably stomp the ground and cry out that it wouldn’t be fair, that none of those other girls were still her… it would be too cruel. I’ve messed up. I’ve gotta go-!

I felt her suddenly grapple me and turn me onto the bed.

“A-Amy!” I was absolutely startled, I didn’t expect her to be so strong while she was still getting up.

“I’m cold.” she lied, holding me down and tightly. “Don’t go.”

“Amy, I can’t do this. I can’t do this anymore..!” I tried to fight it, but she was absolutely strong, and I even questioned if she was faking being asleep.

But I waved my hand over her eyes and watched as they closed and she was slowly falling back to sleep.

“You make this so challenging.” I huffed, but smiled and chuckled at how even in her sleep, she was a rascal. “I can’t stay…” I lightly put my hand to the side of her face, which she leaned into, and tried to move her head to my chest. “But trust me,... if there is a way… I won’t fail you twice.” I cupped her adorably sleepy but scarily strong head in my hands as she tried to resist it a bit, but was able to move and lower her back to her pillow. Slyly figuring out a way to not disturb her, I pushed the other pillow to have her hold it, and made my way out of her grasp. “Phew…”

Memories of Amy’s antics swarmed me… then Tails… then Knuckles… then everyone…

I ended up falling to my butt and spending a good minute trying to conceal my tears without a sound.

She fell asleep… thank goodness.

I got up and picked up the flower that was slightly crushed from under her back, and placed it back on the counter. I took two petals that had fallen and placed one in her hand… then the other I tucked under my glove and held in the space between my bare palm and glove.

“Don’t wait for me anymore.” I tugged the bottom of my glove down, making sure the petal wouldn’t accidentally fall out and that it was secure. I gave one final, good look over to her…

“...But dream of me… always…”

-A New Day-

I woke up immediately when I groggily read the text from Tails that Sonic was badly injured, but somehow, used the last of the Chaos Energy inside his body to locate the Master Emerald across dimensions, and jumped!

“Jumped!? W-woah-woah!” I fell out of my bed and crashed hard on my chin, but adjusting to the pain, I kept scrolling through the updates.

He was Chaos Controlled directly from the Master Emerald with the help of a confused Knuckles who reacted at once and used his own influence over the Master Emerald to channel it’s power to wherever Sonic was reaching from.

He apparently came back, half-alive…

My eyes shook in terror, “Oh, Sonic!” I felt my heart leap out of my chest as I quickly wrote back as I spoke the words aloud. “Where is he!? I’ll house him. Tell Vanilla and Cream to bring everything to my house! Food, medicine, the works! We won’t lose him again!”

My eyes were still red from countless, sleepless nights of waiting for him to come through my window and surprise me again. I really had thought I imagined it… but I woke up with a petal from a new flower in my hand, and looked to see the one from my hallucinations that night on my nightstand.

When the others told me what he had done, I bashed the trees down and ranted with a mighty thunder in my step and tone how they should have believed in him more, should have given him hope, and the strength he needed wasn’t their undying love for him but their support in that he could do the impossible!

I kept telling myself, ‘Of course, he’ll come back!’ but my anger was from knowing that when he was trying to take my hand and say goodbye… he couldn’t.

He needed me! Oh, how my Sonic needed me to pull him in and shout out to the universe that he was going to be alright, that he was going to return, and that none of this was necessary!

I should have woken up and seen more clearly! I should have… I was the only one who could have contested their naysaying and cheered him up. I would have… I would have gotten so many words out that would be completely incoherent due to my rushing tears…

They brought him to me right away, and I was upset I couldn’t reach them in time to have helped moved him, but they insisted I stay put.

When I saw him… on a white gurney and barely able to stay awake… looking rough and completely done for… I felt my whole being cry out that he would make it… but my whole being slid down the door’s frame at just seeing him look so badly… so drained of life...

He was out for days… but he had been gone for so long…

I was replacing his bandages, starting with the cooling rag, I was just gonna wipe him down from the sweat. I put him in my own bed and was sleeping by the side of the bed with my head to his side at night… sleeping in my chair, nursing him back to health.

He didn’t make much noise expect for awful twitches that would make me think he was dying… it scared me so much… but I held his hand as he would groan in his sleep, as though trying to move and wake up … but couldn’t.

Couldn’t… shouldn’t… wouldn’t…

Could, would, should…

These words were infuriating me lately.

I dipped the cool rag into the water on my nightstand, which I had used to replace the vase with flowers, but kept the last flower in a see-through box, letting it sit on my windowsill as I waited through endless nights for him…

My eyes must have made me look like a raccoon rather than a hedgehog by now… but as I wiped them and patted his darling, but hurt face… I finally saw him breath out and roll his head towards my touch.

My eyes widened, was this his last breath or first real moments of consciousness?

“S-…” I felt my voice break against a dam of emotions. “Sonic?” Then flood my mouth, “Sonic!?” the sound vibrated to every cell, sparking me to life as I jolted up and hung over him. “Sonic, can you hear me!?”

His eyes were blurred, but he opened them, looking around as though unable to see me.

“Sonic! Sonic, you’re alive! You’re here!” I said that to assure him of him, not for myself.

I embraced him with restrained joy, trying to not hurt him further, as I heard him cough and try and reach his hand up.

I immediately pulled back and helped him up, hearing him hiss at the pain but fighting it.

“S-sorry! I’ll let you rest more-” I was gonna lower him back down but he put a hand out to my shoulder, as though telling me not too.

He adjusted himself to leaning back and I put pillows in his way to give him some comfort as he was somewhat up now.

“How are you feeling? You okay?” That was stupid to ask, but I was so worried… one peep, one little, measly sound would drown out all this panicking… anything!

He coughed again, and looked around.

Seeing where he was, his eyes widened and he looked back to me, as though stunned.

“You’re home… Sonic, you’re…” I covered my mouth, bursting into tears and dropping to my knees, holding myself up with my other hand gripping the bed.

I turned my hand around to show him the palm of my hand, tucked into my gold bracelet was his petal he had left in my hand, ripped and torn, crinkled and decaying… I never let it go.

He smiled and let out a puff of relief and--what I assume to be--joy as he scratched weakly at his own glove.

“Y-you want it off..?” I was speaking through tears, and blinked several times to see what I was doing, and wiping my tears away before lifting his glove up and seeing…

Not even tarnished. It was as though the petal in the palm of his hand was eternal, as though the dimension was only a blink in time, but it was still a vibrant rosy color, pinkish hue, but leaning more towards the red.

I dipped my head to his hand and just cried, kissing the palm and the petal as I knew what it meant.

“I missed you too.” I finally broke my voice and wailed in my tears.

I knew he hated goodbyes and crying…

But I knew how much he loved ‘hellos’.

(resisted Italics this time lol Better with or without them? -meaning both Bold, Underlined, etc.-)

(ALSO! I remembered I was gonna do kissing but I was so wrapped and enthralled in the drama that I forgot o-o; Eh, makes it more in-character XD)

#no italics this time #I resisted lol #better with or without them?#sonamy #sonicxamy #sonic and amy #cutegirlmayra #sonic prompt #sonamy prompt

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theroguequeenaniki · 3 years

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Questions 2009 -> 2021

This is from my Facebook. It popped up on my memories page thing. I originally answered this in 2009 when I was 15, it’s now 2021 & and I am 27, so I’m gonna do it again. Leaving the original answers. Original answers will be italicized. Commentary on the original answers in parentheses & crossed out? Lol. (I’m not gonna tag anyone, but, like, I guess if you want to answer these random questions from Facebook 12 years ago, go ahead lol)

Questions

Can you fill this out without lying? You've been tagged, so now you need to answer all the questions HONESTLY. At the end, choose people to tag. Don't forget to tag me so I can see your answers! To do this, copy this entire message, then go to “notes” under tabs on your profile page, paste these instructions in the body of the note, delete my answers, and type yours. Easy! Next, tag people that you think may enjoy this (in the right hand corner of the app). Click publish (at the bottom). Have fun! :) 1.What was the last thing you put in your mouth? My cup with my Big Red in it The straw to my Kate Spade tumbler to drink my HEB Cola Lol.

2.Where was your profile picture taken? I got it off the internet. it's a random anime girl. My bedroom. 3.Can you play Guitar Hero? Never played it. Probably wouldn't be good at it. Not to good at video games. But I am good at Mario Cart, both 64 and the Wii. plus I'm good at some Sonic games. Still never played it. Idk if I’m any good at Mario Cart or the Sonic games anymore, I haven’t played either in years lol

4.Name someone who made you laugh today? Doctor Who TikTok. My cats.

5.How late did you stay up last night and why? Umm, probably about 10:00 cause it took me forevor to get into bed. Uh..Past 4am. Lol. B/c my sleep schedule is fucked. I was in bed by 3am though, but I was playing games & watching TikToks on my phone. Lol.

6.If you could move somewhere else, would you? Yes. I'd move to either New York or Sweden. I don’t know. Part of me says yes. But part of me says no..b/c even though Texas has it’s faults (a LOT of them), I cannot imagine living anywhere else long-term..

7. Ever been kissed under fireworks? HAHA. Yeah right. I've never even been kissed! Still nope. I have been kissed though. He just didn’t kiss me under the fireworks the one NYE we spent together...

8. Which of your friends lives closest to you? Um, I think R, but D might also. D is accross Stasney from me and R is a couple blocks down (I don’t talk to these people much anymore & I’m not going to share their names on Tumblr) Uh. I think Maybe Raven? B/c they’re the only one who lives in the same city still. But, Sarah might technically be closer distance wise? Hold on. Ok, yeah, Sarah’s closer, even though she doesn’t live in this city anymore.

9. Do you believe exes can be friends? It all depends on the situation.(I totally stold M's answer but it's true) (I don’t talk to this person anymore & I’m not gonna share their name on Tumblr) I mean, yeah. Two of my best friends are each others exes and they’re still friends. I haven’t stayed friend with my ex, but, uh, he ghosted me so? Lol.

10. How do you feel about Dr. Pepper? I love it. I still love it. Lol.

11. When was the last time you cried really hard? I can't remember. I don't think it was that long ago, I had a light cry on Saturday, but I don't remember the last time I cried really hard. When we got back from our trip in July. Had a full on breakdown that night. Overheated all weekend. Overwhelmed. Anxiety. It was not a very good vacation..I cry a lot though.

12. Who took your profile picture? I got it off of google. I did.

13. Who was the last person you took a picture of? Umm, either myself, or one of my family members. Aside from myself. I think my dad, on his phone, b/c there was a cicada on his shoulder and he wanted to ask the family group chat if he could keep it. Lol. I take a LOT of pictures of cats though. Lol.

14. Was yesterday better than today? Hail yes! To much drama today! And I couldn't avoid it cause I was in the middle of it! (Oof, what drama was 15 yo Linda dealing with that she couldn’t avoid? Lol. I mean, I guess, Sophomore year was a bit full of drama lol) Anyway, I mean, they were pretty much the same. One wasn’t better than the other. One wasn’t worse than the other.

15. Can you live a day without TV? yeah. Now Music there is something I can't live without! Yep, Do it almost everyday. Sentiments about music remain the same. Lol.

16. Are you upset about anything? Yes. I'm annoyed about something and it's making me upset. (I assume this has something to do with the the drama mentioned earlier lol) Always. Anxiety & depression are a bitch. My rooms a mess & I can’t get myself to clean it. My shelves are still a mess.

17. Do you think relationships are ever really worth it? yeah. though i havent really had one yet. I mean, yeah. Even though I haven’t had one last, aside from friendships, but they’re worth it.

18. Are you a bad influence? I hope not. If so, let me know.(again I took M's answer but it's true) Probably. Idk. Lol.

19. Night out or night in? Depends on what's going on and how I feel about it. Night in usually. I do like going out sometimes, but, like, to dinner. Maybe a movie or a show. But, you know, we’ve been in a panini press, the only thing I’ve been comfortable doing is going to dinner (fully vaxxed & masked). But I also prefer staying home anyway. (Like I usually just go to dinner with my family lol)

20. What items could you not go without during the day? my computer. my book. my journal and a pen. My phone. My journal (b/c I write in it every night, as a diary, 14yo Linda wrote stories). Uh. I didn’t take food or drinks into account in the og, so I won’t in those. But, yeah. My phone & journal. I can go a day without my laptop if I need to. (Went the whole trip in July without pulling it out, though maybe that’s not a good example since my anxiety on that trip was so high..) I want to say a book, but I’ve been in a massive reading slump so...I wish I read as much as 15yo Linda did..

21. Who was the last person you visited in the hospital? I don't remember. I think it was myself.(if you want to know, ask me in person) I honestly don’t know. I don’t remember the last time I was in a hospital.

22. What does the last text message in your inbox say? "Mrbobbybones: wish ted would finally meet their mother already. geez. get to it. However, I see myself in that character more and more each episode." yeah. That's what it says. It's from Twitter. (Huh? and I can’t even go check b/c my inbox doesn’t go back to 2009 on Twitter?? (I haven’t had my account that long) Wait wait wait just remembered I used to get tweets to my phone as text messages lol)

Facebook messenger: “ Cool” From our group chat. Lol.

From actual text messages on my phone: “ heeey! Just put up the Tuesday PDS just for you it’s a big one.” From Phillip Defranco’s text line Lol.

23. How do you feel about your life right now? I'm loving and hating it. but hey nobody gets out alive right? Uh..I mean. I’m alive. I have WiFi. Food. Family. I haven’t seen my friends in 2 years. (Minus Alex, b/c they were here in July to cat/house sit, but I saw them for like, one night..) There’s a lot that could be better. A lot that could be worse.

24. Do you hate anyone? yes!!! Oof. I mean, kinda.

25. If we were to look in your Facebook Inbox, what would we find? some random conversations. most of my convos on her though have been in chat or through comments. Facebook Inbox is now Facebook Messenger. So you’ll find all my Facebook Messenger convos. Mostly our group chat. And side group chats for secret planning (birthdays & stuff). Plus other chats? Lol.

26. Say you were given a drug test right now, would you pass? I better! (excuse me miss 15yo Linda you absolutely could have passed a drug test you ALSO didn’t drink or smoke or take any drugs lol) Yeah. Absolutely. I don’t drink or smoke or take any drugs so, yeah? Lol.

27. Has anyone ever called you perfect before?

Yes. But I can't remember when... Yeah. Pretty sure.

28. What song is stuck in your head? Gee by SNSD(Girls Generation) They're Korean. A few My Chemical Romance songs

29. Someone knocks on your window at 2:00 a.m., who do you want it to be? EDWARD CULLEN! Joke! lol. No I don't know. If it was Edward, I'd call the cops. whoever it is though better have an explaination or they are gonna get hit in the head with my Book of Shadows. (Maybe I wouldn’t mind Edward at my window though? Lol.) Uh. My friends? Lol. Idk if I want anyone knocking on my window at 2am.

30.Wanna have grandkids before you’re 50? I don't know....... Uh. No? Idk. Most likely not gonna happen.

31. Name something you have to do tomorrow? I can't think of anything right now... Eat. Should probably clean my room.

32. Do you think too much or too little? Way to much! lol. Way way way too much

33. Do you smile a lot? i try to. I think I do. I get told that alot in Theater...

I think so

#questions #throwback #is this a get to know me #idk

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