Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sonic looks over the balcony at the last of his men walking away from the castle with supplies and weaponry to load the fleet. He would be joining them soon, but he had some important business to be dealt with first. Some people very dear to him he needed to see before he departs. He had already said his goodbyes to his mother Queen Aleena not too long ago, assuring her he’d return as soon as he could. She had just chuckled and hugged him. “I’ll be here waiting.” She’d said.

Taking a deep breath, Sonic turned and walked through the draped curtains of his balcony, back into the bedroom he shared with his husband and love of his life, Shadow. He was the one who Sonic sought after now, as a matter of fact. Him and…

“Sonic, are you still here?”

There he was. Shadow had entered the room carefully holding a small bundle of linens in his arms. Sonic smiles warmly, walking up to the dark-quilled hedgehog he was blessed enough to call his husband. “I’m here Shads.” Shadow walked toward him. “Hm. You should be with your men by now, they must be expecting you.” “They can wait. I just wanted to see you again first.” A slight blush dusted his cheeks, a beautiful sight in Sonic’s opinion. “I’m flattered.” He smirks. “But someone else also wanted to say goodbye.” Shadow looks fondly at the bundle he held, which contained a small hoglet with the softest white fur. Sonic beamed at their son, Silver. 

“Hey buddy…” Sonic speaks softly, reaching out a gloved finger to the child, who reached out with his tiny paws and grabbed it, smiling. Sonic watched him lovingly and looked up at Shadow. “I’ll miss you two every day. There won’t be a day or a night that goes by without you on my mind.” Shadow smiled softly as he only did for Sonic. “You’re such a sap.” “You love it~” Sonic winked playfully. 

“I do. And you know we’ll always wait for you to return. It won’t be the same without you.” 

Sonic chuckles, raising a brow in amusement. “Now who’s the sap?” Shadow rolls his eyes. “Only for you.” 

“I know. That’s what makes it so special.”

Shadow says nothing, but with his free arm pulls Sonic into a gentle embrace, as the tiny hoglet is still held between them. Sonic wraps his arms around his husband, melting into the hug. In a smaller, more vulnerable voice, Shadow whispers something just loud enough for Sonic to barely hear. “Come home safe to us…” The words strengthen Sonic’s resolve as he pulls his family closer. 

He’d do anything for them.

“-and soon preferably.” Shadow adds, stepping back from the embrace. Sonic smirks cheekily. “You know me, Love. Slow isn’t exactly my thing.” “Don’t I know it.” Shadow sighs, but the smile he still wore showed his lack of actual irritation. 

“Well, I guess I should be leaving, huh….”

“Yes.”

Sonic places his hand on Shadow’s cheek. “I’ll be back. For both of you.” He kisses his husband, and then leans back to look at his son once more. “Sliver, try not to get too big while I’m gone, okay? Take good care of your father for me.” Silver coos a bit and seems to lean closer to Shadow. Sonic watches him proudly. He places a kiss on the babe’s forehead, causing him to giggle at the sensation. Sonic leans back, meeting Shadow’s eyes. 

He thinks he can see the somber expression buried within, though Shadow would never admit it. Sonic wished this whole war wasn’t necessary and he could stay and not leave them, but his troops needed guidance. He has to.

“I love you.”

Shadow smiles. “I love you too. Now go.”

Sonic nods, and with that, races off in a blue blur to greet his men as arranged, leaving his home and family in his wake.

………………………………………………………………

It was silent, save for the pops and crackles of a few torches, illuminating the inside of the massive wooden horse that roughly 30 of Sonic’s men sat within, patiently awaiting their king’s orders. Sonic, the King of Ithaca, a blue hedgehog mobian sat, listening intently for any sounds outside the structure. It had been quiet long enough, it was time. Sonic fidgets with his wedding ring under his glove, remembering his reasons to come home, his reasons to live, to try, to fight. His men had their own families to return to, and so many years had already passed…

The sooner they could return, the better.

Sonic stands, grabbing a torch and gathering the attention of his men. “Everyone, listen. After ten years of war, it’s finally time. Time to end this. We’ll get Helen, fight like hell and come home to our families, our loved ones. Steel yourselves, keep them in your heart, and fight for what you believe in. We’ve sat in waiting far too long. After all, nothing starts until we take action! Are you all with me?” A triumphant cheer resounds from the gathered warriors. “Alright, NOW!” 

The soldiers burst out of their concealment and just like that, the battle began. The once quiet night was filled with the clashing of steel and shouted battle cries as the Ithacans wreaked havoc upon the unsuspecting Trojans. Sonic fought his way through the fray, running, dashing, darting, bobbing, weaving, all to get into the stronghold and run up through the castle. He ran through hall after hall, when suddenly a supernaturally bright flash of lightning floods the hall with a deafening CRACK .

The light catches Sonic off guard, making him trip and fall mid-stride. His vision is nothing but white, and he cries out in surprise and pain, as his eyes burn. Flashes of images cross his mind in seconds, hazy, unfocused, but Sonic can make out figures.

Shadow, clutching what Sonic could only assume must be Silver in his arms, running from… Something. The picture flickers again to a dark, heavily armed mobian soldier standing over the kneeling Shadow, who had his arms outstretched protecting Silver, shielding him with his body. The menacing warrior raises his gleaming sword high, ready to bring it down on the two hedgehogs. The blade crashes down on—

“NO!”

Nothing happens. Sonic pants, the terror from seeing his family in danger still fresh, but his normal sight returning. As quickly as the moment had come, it was gone. Sonic blinked, trying to clear his mind and refocus his sight. “Ugh… what was that…?” 

A loud voice echoes through the hall, mingling with the thunder outside. “A vision. Obviously.” Sonic frowns in confusion. “What- Who are you? Where are you?” The voice replies, unamused. “Thunder. Lightning. Who else could it be?” Wait a minute… “Scourge…? The god of thunder…” Sonic realizes. “Bingo.” The god answers, and if Sonic could see his face, then he felt like he’d have a cocky smirk.

“Wait- Now wait a minute, what do you mean by ‘a vision’?” Sonic questions. “Just a taste of the future… that is, if you don’t change it.” Sonic’s heart dropped at the mention of the future. So that’s a possible outcome…? Shadow and Silver…

“What can I do to stop it?” Sonic spoke with fierce determination. “Just one little thing,” Scourge answers. “In this castle, beyond the doors at the end of this hall, is someone’s son, someone who won’t retreat, or even fight back. You must kill him.” Sonic grits his teeth, but nods. “Fine… so be it. I can do it.” Scourge cackles, rumbles of thunder mixing with the laughter. “Oh, you have no idea what you’re up against.” “Whatever it is, I can handle it.” Sonic replied with only a bit of an edge to it. He had enough sense not to anger the god who just gave him a chance at saving his family, even if he was a bit annoying. “Hm. We’ll see about that.” Scourge scoffs, and Sonic bites his tongue to swallow the snappy comeback that threatened to bubble up as he ran down the hall once more.

He reached the large double doors, and cautiously opened them, muscles tensed to jump into battle if necessary, one hand on his dagger at his hip. Scanning the room, Sonic is confused to see the room appearing to be empty. Upon closer inspection, decorative touches about the room appear to have a more childish appearance, and there was the odd toy on the floor here and there. Sonic’s unease grew as he slowly walked into the room. Then, with a rush of dread, he saw the bassinet.

Sh!t.

His feet heavy with every step, he approaches and peeks into the small bed to see a sleeping Mobian kit, a baby. A wolf, if Sonic had to guess.

“…It’s a child…” Sonic utters. “How could he possibly be such a threat…? He’s harmless.” “I warned you, didn’t I? And besides, it’s not just any kid. It’s Prince Hector’s son.” Scourge comments. Hector, the prince of Troy, the very one that they waged war against…. “If this child grows knowing you were the one who brought death to his father, can you imagine his resentment towards you? Your family? All you hold dear… He’ll become one HELL of a warrior, and one set on exacting revenge on a certain king of Ithaca…” Scourge explained. 

Sonic gently reached into the bassinet to lift the small pup into his arms, who had roused from slumber at the sound of their voices. His tiny grey ears flicked and he yawned adorably, his golden eyes looking at Sonic curiously. The hedgehog paused, the little child in his arms making his chest feel uncomfortably tight. “…There has to be another way. Just look at him…” The babe smiles, reaching out a tiny paw to Sonic. “I see only the death of you and your family, a warrior who will relentlessly seek you until the end, but hey, if you let him live, that’s your prerogative.” Scourge drily says. Voice filled with conflict, Sonic mumbles his thoughts aloud, desperately searching for another solution. 

“I could… I could take him in. Adopt him, and raise him away from here. He would never need to know of his past, surely that would work…” 

“Nope. Won’t work.” Scourge interrupts, shooting down the suggestion immediately. “Admit it, Sonic. There’s only one way out of this, and you know it.” Sonic slowly sinks down to sit on the floor, still holding the child. “No… please, please… there has to be another way. Don’t make me do this.”

Scourge speaks again, with a hint of sarcasm. “I’m not making you do anything. Just using my god superiority to pressure you into a morally questionable decision. No matter what you try, it will fail, unless you heed my instructions.” “But-” “Try as you may, one way or another, the stain of blood will always make its way to your gloves. All you can do is pick whose to spill.”

There is one last crack and flash of lightning, then gradually the thunder and lightning outside fades, and the clouds dissipate, and Sonic is alone with the babe in his arms. The blue hedgehog lets out a weary sigh and chances a glance down at the baby he held. 

It looked at him curiously, tilting its head in questioning. Sonic squeezed his eyes shut and tilted his head away. 

What am I going to do…?

☆ ⋆ ✮ ~★~ ✮ ⋆ ☆

Chapter Text

Needless to say, after the absolute bombshell that Scourge dropped, Sonic was in shock (pun intended) and understandably conflicted. Forced to pick between two terrible options. Holding the key to his loved ones’ safety in a small, harmless, adorable bundle.

He didn’t know what to do.

Sonic steeled himself to look down at the child again, and noticed that the babe had golden amber eyes, which reminded him of Silver. He had been with Shadow the first time Silver had opened his eyes, and it was a beautiful and emotional moment that Sonic treasured the memory of. He remembered the first time when he was dazzled by his tiny son’s golden gaze so vividly... Silver’s eyes were like liquid sunshine. 

Come to think of it, this child was about the same age that Silver had been when Sonic had left for war. And with how long they’d been gone, Silver must be able to walk by now… Sonic feels a pang of melancholy longing at the thought of missing his son‘s first step, not to mention so many other milestones. Silver doubtless had greatness in store for his future. Then again… 

This child had a whole life ahead of it as well. 

Friends to make, bonds to forge, and so, so much to learn. A life filled with joy, anguish, tragedy, celebration… and resentment.

The pup was harmless, and couldn’t hurt a soul. Now, anyway. 

The threat of what the child would become as he grew looms heavily, weighing on Sonic‘s mind as he debated morals. Letting the child live was the easy way out in the present, but it ensured the loss of his son, his husband, his home, everything he held dear.

Sonic felt awful. Is he a bad person? To even consider killing a child... But to save his family?

Was it selfish?

Was it wrong?

Was it the right decision?

Was it the wrong one?

Did he deserve this?

He didn’t know.

The baby in his arms yawned with a little squeak to it. Sonic couldn’t help but smile sadly. The child didn’t deserve this. Not now. Was it truly fair for Sonic to judge him based on events that had not yet even occurred? He placed a gentle hand on the babe’s head, a gentle pet between the ears.

Close your eyes. You needn’t see this…

Taking a shuddering breath, Sonic slowly stands. He doesn’t see how he could possibly hurt the child. But then again… at what point does something so small, so harmless, so… innocent, become a fearsome, terrifying, and anger-driven avenger? When does that switch occur?

At what point does the king fighting protect his people become a murderer of countless?

When does a man become a monster….?

He just wanted to go home. Was that truly so bad? Sonic stands slowly, adjusting his hold on the swaddled baby to one where he gripped only the fabric and the child hung in a secure fabric hammock. 

His feet moved slowly, automatically. Distanced from the rest of the world. The sounds of the battle outside drowned by the rushing of blood in his ears. He walked as if puppeteered, those malicious strings tugging him further and further, outside, and along the wall. His thoughts of his love, his husband and his son waiting for him thrummed in his mind; he’d do anything for them.

Anything…..

……

His guilt and anxiety grew with every step closer to the wall. Sonic’s hands shook. Reaching the edge, Sonic closed his eyes, unable to look at the child, who watched him with curiosity and an innocent smile.

Sonic knew the price he had to pay…

He knew his friends and family would ask him what he’d done.

He knew he would have to return to his men composed, no matter what.

He knew that from this moment forward, nothing would ever be the same again.

He would never be the same.

The bundle dangles over the edge of the wall. The baby coos nervously.

Sonic whispers a soft, broken apology.

“Forgive me…”

—and lets go of the bundle.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.


…Forgive me…

⋆ ✮ ~♡~ ✮ ⋆

Chapter Text

Sounds of battle grew quiet, soon to be replaced by cheers and shouts of victory. At long last, the war was over, and though some of the Ithacan soldiers were in rough shape, miraculously, everyone was accounted for. Which was plenty of cause for celebration, and Sonic agreed that his soldiers could celebrate and have a day of festivities and recouping before they set out to sea and began the journey home.

If the king seemed a bit detached and closed off, hardly anyone noticed. But where normally Sonic would be laughing and drinking in impulsive merriment with his crews, this time he did not. Not the life of the party as usually was, cracking jokes and entertaining, but rather hanging to the side, quietly observing. Most unlike him.

Only Sonic’s two closest friends, practically his brothers, having grown up with them, noticed his distant state. Tails and Knuckles noted the azure hedgehog’s odd behavior, knowing well that this was far from their friend and king’s usual behavior. The brilliant young fox, Tails, shoots a worried glance at Knuckles, the flickering fire light glinting from his goggles he always kept atop his head at an odd angle. Breathing deeply, the warrior echidna Knuckles sighs, crossing his arms to show his similar worry to Tails, just in his own, more gruff way. 

Tails looks back over at Sonic, who is standing to the side, watching, but not really seeing. He is unnaturally still, and Tails knows it. Ever since they were kids, Sonic could NOT stop moving; he’d tap his feet, drum his fingers, swing his arms, but when he wasn’t running, he’d feel uncomfortable being still. So seeing him this quiet and motionless was gravely concerning Tails. Knowing Knuckles isn’t good with talking about things, Tails decides to check on Sonic himself.

Sonic, so absorbed in his thoughts, doesn’t even notice the fox’s approach until Tails is right in front of him, speaking to draw his attention. 

“Sonic…?”

Sonic blinks, finally registering his little brother’s presence. “Hm? Oh Tails! Hey buddy…” Tails’ brow furrows. “Sonic… Are you okay? We’ve hardly seen or heard from you for hours since you returned…” Sonic feels bad. He didn’t want to worry anyone. He knew it would happen, but that didn’t make it any less unpleasant. “Yeah, sorry Tails, I’ve just been …thinking.” Tails chuckles lightly with a slight smile. “That’s why I’m worried.” Sonic gives him a playful shove. “Oh hush. But really, I’m okay. I promise. You and Knux shouldn’t worry, go have fun. I’m perfectly fine, and I’ll rejoin the party later, okay?” He smiles, but it doesn’t quite reach his eyes. Tails nods warily, his twin tails flicking behind him in slight agitation. “…Okay, if you’re sure, then I trust you.” Tails turned to walk back to the others, but his worry only grew stronger. 

He knew the look he had seen in his best friend’s eyes just then.

Guilt.

His emerald eyes had been dulled by that deep sadness, one that cannot be shaken easily. Unfortunately, Tails was all too aware of that feeling, but he made a solemn promise to himself that night. Tails resolved to help his adopted brother as best he can, to ease his worries and continue to be there for him. No matter what.

— ⋆  𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 ⋆ —

The next day, the crews packed, loaded up, and boarded their ships once more, setting off to sea, to home. The fleet fell back behind Sonic’s ship, which took the lead. They sailed long and far, ever trying to reach home once again. 

After a time, the crews began to get restless, patience thinning and tempers rising. Sonic did his best to assuage their worries and keep peace among his men, but even though his usual cheery demeanor seemed to have returned, it veiled a deeper turmoil that only his two close friends noticed.

Sonic stood at the bow of the ship, feeling the breeze on his ears and through his quills. Getting 600 warriors home without any snags was daunting, but he would sure as hell try. They had lives back home, families to return to. 

He did too. 

He missed Shadow. He missed Silver. He missed them both terribly. They were his driving force, and Sonic would never let that go.

The heavy and familiar footsteps on the oak deck brought Sonic back to the present. “Captain?” Sonic turns to face Knuckles. “I told you, you don’t always have to call me Captain, Knux.” Sonic chuckles. Completely ignoring that, Knuckles goes on. “We have a problem. As you know, the crew has been more on edge lately. Six hundred people means a lot of big mouths and hungry stomachs, and our food supply is nearly depleted.” He explains. Tails comes over to stand by them midway through Knuckles’ explanation, looking worried. Sonic hums in contemplation. The war and their time at sea definitely left a dent in their food stores. Looking out at the horizon before them once more, Sonic spots some dark specs in the sky a ways away. Birds.

“Look out in the distance, you guys see that?” Sonic points. Knuckles squints, raising his hand to block the sun. “I see ocean. And sky.” Sonic rolls his eyes. “ In the sky, Knux.” “Clou-” “There’s birds!” Tails chirps, having taken out his spyglass and climbed onto the railing to see. Sonic grins. “Yep. And they wouldn’t be here if there weren’t land nearby.” “He’s right!” Tails adds, still peering through his spyglass. “Waaay out there is an island.” How convenient. 

“Well, we’ll just have to find some food there.” Sonic explains. “Wait a second…” Tails interrupts, “…there’s a light, in the trees there. A glow! Maybe they’re other islanders who might share some food, or something!” Sonic furrows his brow in thought. If there were fires, wouldn’t they have seen smoke? “Tails, is there smoke?” “Hm? Oh, …huh, no…actually. That’s weird.” Tails frowns in realization. “Well I don’t trust it. I say we just break in there, get what we need, and get out.” Knuckles grumbles, more to himself than anything. “No, I don’t think we should… Knuckles, think about it. There could be people there who might share food, or at least direct us to some. And we may as well explore the weird glow while we’re out here! What’s the harm?” Knuckles opens his mouth to reply, but Sonic eagerly gestures to Tails, cutting him off. “Tails! Grab your gear bud, we’re gonna check it out!” Tails beams. “Aye aye, Captain!” Knuckles groans and brings his large palm to his face.

Sonic watches Tails dash off, and sighs fondly. “Sonic, are you sure about this? We still don’t know what’s ahead.” Knuckles warns. Sonic’s smile fades to a more sobered expression, responding seriously to his friend. “I am. Trust me when I say this is the best way forward. I don’t want any harm to come to anyone, and we’re all well aware of the dangers of starvation at sea. I just want to keep everyone safe, Knux.” Knuckles’s voice softens just a bit. “I know.” Sonic looks up and gives a weary smile to his companion. “As if it makes you feel better, as a safety precaution, if we don’t return by sunrise tomorrow, then you can charge in fists blazing. Deal?” Knuckles smiles the slightest bit. “Deal.” 

Sonic turns towards the bow, gazing at the island far in the distance.

“Full speed ahead.”

⋆ ✮ ~♡~ ✮ ⋆