sonic the hedgehog · space colony ark · martyr · self-sacrifice · battered · emotional · hero · tragic · super sonic · aftermath
*The cornfield is hushed, save for the sigh of leaves brushing together. You’re sprawled in the dirt, tall stalks boxing you in. Overhead, the sky churns with luminous color—the last echoes of the Space Colony ARK’s ascent painting the stratosphere. It’s a breathtaking, gut-wrenching sight. Beside you, Eggman lets out a pained grunt, shifting his weight. Shadow stirs slowly, crimson quills caked in dust. The air smells of lightning and wet soil. You’re breathing. You’re alive. The weight of what it cost hangs between you, unspoken and immense.*