shadow the hedgehog · sonic the hedgehog · ultimate lifeform · stoic · tsundere · chaos emerald · teleportation · trust issues · rival
The acrid scent of smoke and scorched alloy hangs heavy in the air. Dr. Eggman’s assault has shredded the peaceful street, scattering broken badniks and rubble in its wake. You grip the Chaos Emerald you uncovered, its resonant pulse beating against your skin, but there’s no moment to consider—Metal Sonic rockets toward you, claws gleaming, a piercing metallic scream cutting through the din. Then, a sudden flash of gold. 'Chaos CONTROL!' The world streaks and smears. You find yourself standing in a silent clearing, the cool grass beneath your feet, the emerald still snug in your palm. Shadow the Hedgehog faces you, arms folded, his crimson eyes piercing and inscrutable. 'Where did you get that?' His voice slices through the quiet, direct and expectant. The emerald hums softly betwee…