Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The dewdrop of morning breeze brushes coldly against blue quills, sending a refreshing shiver to awaken him. His sluggish demeanor flipped over into a more energetic imagery. His limbs are stretched and all warmed up for their daily routine. Sonic has risen up early to go for a morning jog. The family, already accustomed to it, even prepared a light breakfast for him to take before dashing off to who knows where. Once he packed everything, passport in case he ended up in some foreign country and got caught, he ran with all his might.

The route changes scenery with every minute passed since he left the house. The trees that covered the lone path had thinned and brought him to the highways. Avoiding cars and trucks becomes a hassle and he swerves to the roadside into the open plains. He ascends and descends several mountains lined up along the earthly ground as he enjoys every bit of his climbs. Running has never fail to make him happy. This is his guilty pleasure.

He ran and ran until he decided to slow down a bit. The decision came to a making when he noticed something in the corner of his eyes. Amongst the saturated blue covering the land, there is a blob of black and red dotted in the middle of it. He recognized that color anywhere. He knows that silhouette in every corner and turns. He remembers who it is. 

“Shadow!” Sonic ran to him. 

The blue hedgehog approaches with his usual abnormal speed, making the flowers’ petals fly off with the gust from it. He stops right beside the other, just right, an inch before running into a collision. Despite his cheery greetings, he didn’t get a reply let alone a gaze from the other. Shadow is busy. He’s too preoccupied watching the flowers glistening under the sunshine. A pretty flower in Sonic’s opinion. Too bad he doesn’t know what kind it is. He’d love to bring some back home for Maddie if it's not poisonous.

Shadow didn’t say anything even after gracing him a minute of chance. He doesn’t even humnro acknowledge his presence. He doesn’t even move his eyes to look let alone alter his angle to look at a different plant. His eyes are glued to the bright blue flower just before him. Sonic is not offended, no. He doesn’t feel mad at all. He doesn’t feel irritated to be ignored. He’s not. To be honest, he would love to shove that flower down his nose since he loves it so much not to even appreciate him being here. He’s not angry. No.

He knows what it is like to be alone. The fact that he likes to be in this state of coldness and quietness is beyond him. It's an awful experience. It's painful. This guy should have a hobby. Maybe he'll find some friends that way. At least he doesn't have to be worried about him getting all sad again. He's not alone anymore. At least, he is willing to enter his life, if he allows it. He wants to keep him company even if there's no talking.

Since the black hedgehog decided to treat him like an invisible entity, he can do whatever he wants right? He’s not here. He’s never here. Whatever happens it’s the ghost’s doing. Maybe even a fairy. He snickered at the thought. That was kinda funny. Sonic circles around him, thinking of things to do to get him out of his mind. Maybe a little prank would be nice. Filling his quills with flowers? Plucking one of his quills? Shout really loudly near his ears? What would it be?

“...Bluebells.”

Shadow's voice broke the silence and made Sonic flinch, “Huh? Uh… Yeah? What about them?”

“They were called ‘Fairy Flowers’.” He finally looked at Sonic. “Do you know why?”

“Uhh… It’ll make a good dress for them?”

You can’t blame him for answering like that. He watched Tinkerbell. It does make a pretty nice garment for those fairies. 

Shadow chuckled, “I guess. They said the fairies ring the bluebells to call other fairies.”

“Heh. That’s cute.” Sonic crossed his arms behind his head. “Hopefully their reception is stable.”

“Your ideas sure are interesting.” Shadow scoffed, “Then, want a challenge?”

“If it’s a fight, I don’t think a flower field would make a good ring.”

“Not today.” Shadow plucked one and gave it to Sonic, “Try to turn it inside out without breaking. I bet you can’t.”

“Ugh. Looking down on me now?” Sonic took it begrudgingly, “I’ll make you regret that.”

The challenge was accepted and it's for him to conquer. It's always welcoming to try new things. This is one of them. The blue blur carefully tries it out. He flips the petals as gentle as could, as if holding a fragile glass that could break under the littlest pressure. His focus on fulfilling this task as flawlessly as possible is to impress. He will make Shadow amaze by his incomparable skill. This will teach him not to underestimate him.

After struggling for a decent minute, unaware how his facade may contorted weirdly, Sonic finally did it. It's finally done. A sense of overwhelming pride engulfed him. 

He proudly presented it to the other, “See? This is easy! I can do it with my eyes closed!”

“Then do it.”

“Don't push it.”

Shadow takes the flower and looks at it attentively. Seeing the succession Sonic presented to him, he remembered a superstition related to this. Maria told him. If someone is able to turn the flower inside out, they will win the love they desire. It's not strange for Sonic out of all people having the ability to do this. He already won by a lot. Having a wonderful family is sufficient to give him the love he desires. A place to belong, a place to return, people to come back. His wish has already been fulfilled. It's envious. It's desirable. He wants one as well. 

Well, he's trying. Shadow is still looking for one wherever they may be. Perhaps he could ask Sonic's help, but he's too busy with his own family. He doesn't want to disturb that. He already caused enough disruption between them.

Sonic's ears dropped slightly. It's that face again. That gloomy face on Shadow is hurt to see. The same face when he realized he messed up. The same expression when he remembered what's important to him. The same facade he made when he reminisced about his family, his Maria. It's hard to look at. Uneasy to keep staring at. His pout is cute, but having him somber all the time might not be best for him as a hedgehog. 

Sonic might even get affected by it too. He also misses Longclaw sometimes, especially with all the what-could-have-been scenarios.

A distraction would help keep him busy from the depressed thoughts for a while, at least he'd felt something other than sadness for once. He needs the awakening that there is more to life than pain. All he need is a little fun. 

Sonic stretched his body, “Say, wanna race? It might be great to have a few runs.”

“...No.” His eyes still fixated to the bluebells.

“What? Afraid you'll lose to me?”

Shadow was unresponsive to his jeer, “I've lost everything already. This is nothing.”

At this, Sonic kind of gets a little annoyed. He's trying his best here to cheer this one sad looking hedgehog and yet he refuses to accept his generous kindness that he pours out without limits. He just won't accept it. Sonic never finds it hard to make Tails’ frown upside down so when the obstacles on Shadow are harder to jump over, he's at a loss on what to do. Giving up trying to snap him out of his mind, he circles the black hedgehog all around again.

He still can't grasp how this guy survived the explosion. It is beyond him. When he appeared out of nowhere one day, it brought shock to everyone. Especially him. Not only could the blaze have burnt him to a crisp, the force of the wreckage could have blown him to pieces. Not to mention the fall down to earth, even Sonic himself got a few scratches and it was kept to a minimum thanks to Knuckles. Yet, he’s here in one piece. Intact. Not a limb detached. Not a part missing. Not a scar scattered anywhere. 

Thank goodness.

He’s fine, just like he last saw him. He’s okay, as if nothing happened. He’s alive, just like he never died. 

As he continues circling, playing merry-go-round to the one attraction he is fixated to, Shadow follows suit moments later. He walks just behind Sonic with the right angle to be able to see each other’s faces. The blue one finds it amusing. He lets out a few chuckles seeing his antics. Copying what others do without even knowing its meaning, like a curious cat that is hard to kill. Of course, he received a perplexed reaction from the others.

Sonic spoke up, “Why are you following me?”

“I don’t know.” He sounded confused. “You started it first.”

“Well,” Sonic shrugged, “It just feels right to me.”

Shadow was confused, “Is this…like a hedgehog tradition or something?”

Sonic shook his head, “No clue, man. I just…feel like it.”

Shadow was silent for a moment, “...Me too.”

His voice felt so soft, so warm for some reason. There’s some fluffy feeling piling up within his lungs. No, his heart. It made Sonic stop his advance of moving forward and instead, looking at Shadow face to face. The other too stops and does the same. Though, his expression seems blank to interpret. How does he really feel about this? Confused, weirded out, awkward, all of the things above. At least, it is for Sonic. He begins to sweat. What is he supposed to do now? What is he supposed to say? The air is becoming tense again. 

He opted for an easy way out, by running.

“Tag!”

He poked Shadow before zooming swiftly deeper into the forest. He doesn’t know why he did that. He can’t comprehend the reasoning behind it. Maybe he was panicking. Maybe he was too anxious to think straight. Maybe it’s his usual brain being random and what not. Whatever it is, he’s out of sight out of mind now. He can shake this weird feeling off with a run. Though, it’s a shame. Despite the odds, it’s a nice feeling.

Shadow, who was left behind, was actually surprised by the gesture and froze in place. His brain is still buffering, trying to process what had transpired. That action he did, he is familiar with it. It was a game Maria taught him at the base. Before she learned of his super speed, she tried to play a cat and mouse game called tag. Predictably, she lost. It was a chasing game in its simplicity. For what reason Sonic instigated such play to him, he can’t make sense of it. 

He take a look at the bluebells again. A bright, illuminous blue among the grassy plain. It’s almost…like…

From the density of trees within close proximity to mountainous range hiked for better view, Sonic has traveled quite far. Seeing how at this distance there is no sign that Shadow would come after him, he relaxed his pace. He slows down, taking a brief break from the speedy rush. His heart is still beating an upbeat rhythm. He can feel it. Doesn’t seem like running really did anything. 

Just as he changes his stride from playful jog to a walk, he feels a threat tries to jump him from behind. As quickly as he senses it, he dodges the attack as fast. He regained his stance ready for a fight. Whatever enemy this is, he’ll get a good beating for sure. He has enough villainous schemes at the moment. Let him enjoy some peace for once!

Once the dust settled, revealing the attacker’s form, Sonic dropped his fist. 

He can’t believe it. There’s no way that worked. Shadow is here. He actually bit it. He…comes for him.

“...You’re it.”

The way he said it seems a bit too intimidating to be a simple game of tag. Then again, they are alien hedgehogs that came from another world. They aren’t even normal to begin with. For him to take it seriously like a battle of honour, like a certain echidna, it’s kinda precious. If they're still enemies, this is the part where he’d start taking chances of survival. But no, they’re not now. They’re nothing but two estranged earthlings that crossed paths. 

Maybe even friends? 

Sonic isn’t confident enough to say the label, but he felt like they’re getting closer to that. 

That strange feeling from before is being amplified now. It intensified to the point it unconsciously made his mouth curved into a smile, forming a gleeful grin. Giddiness has replaced any oddities from before. Excitement has taken over and dominated his whole nerves. This is good. This is the best. Right now, Shadow’s attention is on him and he intends to keep it that way. It’s subtle, but he can see it. A smile.

Sonic leaned, “That’s a foul, buddy. You haven’t touched me yet.”

Shadow readied himself for another run, “Let’s see about that.”

Seeing what was done, Sonic as well prepared himself for another zooming out into the wilderness. With an understanding gaze, predicting what each other thought of, the two start their game of tag. The wind cuts deep as they sprint across the land. Red and blue light intertwined among the greenery of the forest. Merry laughter echoes as they pass through the creeks and rivers. Two alien hedgehogs cross the world with delight. The sun shines bright for another great, peaceful day. 

Chapter Text

New beginnings are somewhat a salvation to one, but to Shadow the Hedgehog, it's nothing but another puzzle to be solved. Confusion for the next step to be taken, walking without a destination in mind, shooting luck without a specific aim, how is he to make out his life with no guide in hand?

Just like right now, he's walking through a random street without a clue on its name and address. What country or ethnicity, he doesn't pay to mind. Why would he if he's going to leave this all behind the moment he starts running again anyway? The staring eyes are infuriatingly annoying, but he has no choice but to put up with it. He's already here. It's a waste to leave so early.

Just as the thought subsided, a flash of blue caught his eyes. Not quite a blinding sight nor a strong gust of wind, just a gentle shine slowly making its way among the busy crowd. For a hedgehog that quoted 'Gotta go fast' in his life, he is uncharacteristically relaxed in his stride. Not a rush of adrenaline for a run, not a sense of urgency to race. How very unlikely. Just as he contemplated what to do, his feet already started moving. It closes the distance between them, quickening the pace each second they might stray too far. The crowd is getting busier and busier. The lane to walk is cramped the more people swarm it.

He can't lose sight of him. He can't be left behind. He can't lose him. He can't.

"Shadow? What's up?" 

His voice felt warmth, just like the time he gave reassurance. Shadow's body inevitably vibrates warmly by the greetings. Sonic is here, right in front of him. His smile. It's ever so blinding. How glad he felt he is not alone, right here right now.

"Hello? Mr. Hot Topic." His hand swayed before his face, "You're kinda hurting me there."

Shadow blinked, twice, before he could register what he meant. He was finally able to grasp what he had done. His grip felt a firm hold, something soft and pulsing. His hand is wrapped around the other's arm. Shocked by his own action, he retracted it immediately. He raised both his hands in surrender, looking away. That was embarrassing of him. What was he thinking?

The black hedgehog whispered, "...Sorry."

Though not a moment later, his hand was back away from his body. This time, wrapped inside Sonic's palm. Secured in place, intertwined by the fingers into a lock. Another pulse of warmth pumped across his body. It was a welcoming feeling, an elation of euphoria he can't describe. Seeing his face cheerful as always, Shadow felt everything was right in the world. Everything is just how it should be.

This is happiness. His happiness.

Sonic continued his walk, still holding onto a hand so familiar to him. The one being held followed without any protest. Not a sound of rejection is heard let alone a forceful jerk to be freed. He resigned, letting what occurred flow freely like the wide open sea. This seems fine. It's fine. This is practical. This way, they're not going to lose each other in these waves of people. They're here, right beside each other. They're here where they need to be. He's here, with him.

Shadow broke the silence, "No running today?"

"Nah." Sonic shrugged, "Just chilling out."

"I thought you'd gotta go fast." He smirked.

"You remembered my catchphrase?" Sonic snickered, "I'm honored. But, I'm taking it slow today."

Having a change of pace is natural. It's normal for common people, or hedgehogs, probably. But, Shadow does have to wonder. Is holding hands also a part of it? Not like he has any refutation or anything. On the contrary, he actually finds it comforting. It makes him feel a sense of belonging. He felt needed, wanted to be in the presence of someone else. Occupying the space that would fit most perfectly with any of his friends or family and yet, he was chosen. Knowing this, rigorous waves flooded inside him. He felt...content.

"Hey." Sonic's voice caught his attention, making him turn. "Wanna hear some music?"

The blue hedgehog offered him an earbud. It doesn't seem to connect to anything, but the subtle noise coming out of it signifies that it's indeed working. Shadow has never seen anything like it. The last one he saw has wire. It's something new and he should be careful. Still, he took it and immediately put it on ear. This is Sonic he's dealing with. He couldn't have tried to harm him. In all their past encounters, he has always been a pacifist despite the harsh treatment he got. Shadow trusts him, greatly. He might be the only one he can only do. 

Hearing the songs he was playing, Shadow questioned the other's taste in music. It's distasteful. It sounded unruly. Too loud it mirrors noises rather than an orderly arranged tune. It's completely different from the one he listened to with Maria. These songs are an elaboration of chaotic and messy. Shadow tries to be open minded. After all, Sonic would've done the same. This could've just been a different genre of music. It's a surprise, really. He didn't expect someone who could pull off puppy's eyes would be listening to such a heavy piece. It's always something with him.

Then again, it does seem to reflect him. Spontaneous, unpredictable on what he'll say and do. Loud and bold, always does what he thinks is right despite the odds. Wild and chaotic, the power he secretly held yet never shown proudly in the open. They do say someone's taste in music could have meaning in their personality. Usually they're contradictory, just like right now. The heaviness in the music refracts into the softness of kindness he brings. That's the Sonic he knew. 

At least, a portion of it. 

Their walk continues in silence, full of ease and comfort. No words exchange yet the affirmation is always reassuring. The hands that were glued were inseparable despite being tested by the collision against strangers. It clenches tighter every time it's loosened. Earbud still placed perfectly in the ear even when the music felt unbearable. This moment right here is perhaps the salvation he seeks. Peaceful and tranquil without a pinch of anxiousness disturbed him in the nerve. A sense of belonging by the one person he cares about right now. Feelings of security that are unfaltered by absurd doubts. 

This is nice. This is good. This felt...significant.

A beeping sound interrupted them. A groan of dissatisfaction involuntarily escaped Shadow's mouth. Not only was it annoying, their relaxing time was cut off as quickly as it started. It's not enough. It's never enough.

Shadow asked, "What was that?"

"It's my alarm. Gotta get home for dinner before Maddie puts me in timeout for skipping." 

Sonic turned it off. His hand finally slipped out from restraints. It felt awfully cold and empty. The blue hedgehog stretches here and there, seemingly ready to run back home in a flash. Shadow could only watch and let go. He can't get in the way again, not after what happened. They'll meet again next time, they always have. There's no need for sentimental goodbyes. It's unnecessary to even worry about the possibilities their meetings will end. Even if he's gone, he'll find him. No matter what.

He's all that's left for him. He doesn't want to lose this.

"Hey." Sonic turned back, "It's good to have you with me just a little bit longer."

With that, the blue hedgehog had gone from sight in a flash. His silhouette disappeared into the distance before he could blink. That ever warming presence left as quickly as the wind passed by, following him home. Shadow is now left alone again. Now, Shadow can only wait. Wait until Sonic comes to find him again. Wait until they coincidentally meet again. Wait until time brings them together again. With a heavy heart, Shadow runs towards the opposite direction. Wherever he ends up, he wishes it could keep him warm at least for one night.

Chapter Text

Like any other chance meeting, there's always something going on between them. Sonic has always been the one who has the brightest idea. He's always the hedgehog that has his step forward by one. Constantly knowing how to busied himself to the point of no bore, his to-do list for a day must have been massive. That's all Shadow could think of when he sees him again. As usual with his wide warm smile, Shadow can feel his quills fuzzed up upon seeing it. He's unbearable, that shine of his. 

Today, he came with a picnic basket in hand. There is actually no plan for a meet up. There's not a hint or clue how Sonic could have found Shadow so easily. He could be anywhere in the globe and yet, he is often able to. Perhaps an instinct between hedgehogs. Shadow's not complaining though, but he does have some concerns. Those foods could have gone to waste if they didn't meet. It could go bad from the hours just trying to look for him. Time would have been wasted just running around tiring himself if they didn't stumble upon each other. If they didn't meet today, would he have tried again the next day? Or the day after? 

Shadow shook the worry out of his head. Those distressed thoughts are ineffectual. It didn't happen, so there's no need to let it linger. He should focus on what’s before him, the cheery blue hedgehog here.

Sonic made a show out of it. When has he ever done things in decency? As he throws the basket into the air, with a quick dash around the area, he's able to spread out the blanket as well as serve the foods he packed. There's a wide variety for sure. The others aren't certain what's the occasion for such grandiose serving. There's only two of them, and the amount is definitely abundant for them to finish off themselves. Perhaps more will join them, just like that time during one of their movie outings, having his brothers attached to the hip wherever they go even to their seats. It's hard for Shadow to even get a word to him. He can't see the chance to. Especially, seeing them merrily converse amongst each other. It's...irritating.

"Impressive?" Sonic's utterance got Shadow out of his mind. "I totally did that in one try with no practice."

Shadow rolled his eyes, "Really? And here I thought you failed more than 20 times."

"It's 17." Sonic realized and sheepishly 'corrected' himself, "Uh. No. Definitely zero. Nada."

The dark hedgehog just sighs a hearty breath.  It's useless trying to get him to admit it. At least he did quite a nice job at it, not having anything spilled and dirtied. The best is that no hedgehog bathed in one of those meals. That's good enough.  Once Sonic plops down, urging to join him and take a seat on the blanket, Shadow does as expected. How could he refuse when he looks forward to this meeting more than anyone? He can see his tails wag excitedly, in motion still. Shadow too can’t exactly reject the gesture when the other goes so far further than he should. It's only courtesy to answer that devotion with reciprocation. 

It's a shame to lose this moment, this brief moment that was bestowed to cherish. Any moment with Sonic is a moment worth sharing. 

"Oh, wait!" Sonic brought out his phone, "It's always better to eat with some music. Here, let me put some on."

A music melodiously vibrates within their vicinity. It still has some guitar riffs, but with a soothing and calm tone harmoniously dancing in the air instead. He has heard them before during his time at the base. Although, compared to the last songs they listened to together, Shadow knows this is not to his taste. This isn't what he's used to hearing. This is too slow for someone who's always so fast. This is too neatly arranged for someone unruly. Still, it played and Sonic gulped down a few of the snacks down his throat nonchalantly. It probably doesn't disturbed him. But, it disturbed Shadow. 

For him to do something he isn't used to, is it because of him? He despises the idea. He doesn't like when Sonic changes just to suit him. He feels guilty, since it reminds him of... that .

"Here!" Sonic handed over a muffin. "Maddie made them for you. It's delicious!"

Shadow took it, confused. "...She made this? For me?"

"Yeah!" He talked with a full mouth, "She knows I'm going on a picnic with you and wanted to make something you'd like."

Sonic continued, "Well, she based it on my likings since she doesn't know what alien hedgehogs typically like but, if you like something else just tell me. I'll let her know."

Shadow stares at the muffin in hand. His glare could bear holes from the long gaze he gives them. It could burn the treat into black crisp if eyes could fire lasers. His gears aren't working properly when hearing those statements. How could she still think of his preference when her loved ones almost died because of him? Then again, Sonic is still here being all chummy despite nearly killing Tom. What they did is anything but logical.

Kindness, that's the only reason he can think of. They have lots of them and are always willing to give out to others without fear of hurting. Their tenderness never discriminates upon the receiver, free for all. Always accepting of others despite the sin they commit in the past, much like himself. How quaint. He wishes...they would meet in different circumstances. Maybe it wouldn't be so awkward to be close.

They eat their shares in silence, with only munching noises and the alluring music echoing in the background. No further words exchange between them even when the food's savory taste deserves a bit of compliments. Shadow eats his fill looking down while Sonic looks up. The sky looks awfully beautiful that day. Its blue color looks vibrant, bright that it evokes a certain calmness in his heart. This is peace. Tranquility after a storm. Sonic lets out a huff of relieved air. This picnic idea isn't as bad as it turned out. 

Maybe he should bring Shadow to a campfire next time. He would've loved to stargaze together, he bet. This time they get to enjoy it to the fullest without worry of a cannon blowing up. When that happens… Maybe he can hear his stories next.

After another 5 minutes passed, another song in the queue played. An upbeat song, one that seemingly calls them for a dance. Sonic excitedly gets up on his feet. This is his time to shine. Instinctively, he grabs Shadow's hand and pulls him up, roping him in to dance together. They begin by shuffling their feet opposing each other, mirroring their steps to avoid their feet being stomped. Then they spin, circling in place with their connected hand as anchor to balance the turn. A few arm waves here, a few slow dances there, a few swings in the presence, they roll their dances however way they desire. 

There's no order in having fun. Dancing is one of them. And Sonic is absolutely glad that his dance partner is having a blast. His smile may not be as wide, but a smile is still a smile. It's worth it. He’s liven up.

Sonic's sudden turn makes Shadow's leg twisted, tripping himself making both of them fall to the ground. Laughter erupts from the blue one, finding hilarity in the clumsiness of their dance. Though, the other doesn't share the same mentality. He rises himself, disappointed by the bad performances they did. 

Among Sonic's laugh, Shadow groaned. "You should be careful. You could've gotten hurt."

"Come on! Who's gonna hurt me? The grass?" Sonic chuckled.

"You do know we're on top of a hill?"

"Then we'll just roll down in a ball! Hedgehog is quite flexible, you know."

The blue blur received a groan of annoyance from the other. Though, he can tell he finds the idea amusing. Shadow backs off and stands up, giving a hand out to Sonic. Seeing the gesture, he took it and stood tall next to him. Their hands stay a few more minutes than they should. Their gazes into each other's eyes remain locked for more than a few moments. Their breath ends up synchronized the more they remain close. Something stirs up inside them. They don't know what it was. But, these overwhelming feelings seemingly try to drag them together. Its force is attracting their hearts together like magnets. Their distance is closing an inch closer.

They separated. They took a step back. The sudden change of music, from pop to loud rock, surprised them. The sudden loudness knocks them out of their trance and realizing what transpired. This is weird. These bizarre feelings are controlling them like a virus. Thankfully nothing odd happened. It would be devastating to meet each other again if anything embarrassing occurred. They wouldn’t want the meeting to stop now, not when everything is going well. Too well. 

Relishing the remaining time they have, the two resume eating all the snacks until only crumbs are left. Talking as they take a bite in-between, the two hedgehogs spend the day until dusk comes to end today’s encounter.