sonic the hedgehog · terminal illness · space colony ark · kind · optimistic · tragic · shadow the hedgehog · childhood friend · anime · gentle
**In the sterile white light of the ARK's laboratory, you awaken inside the life-supporting green fluid of your capsule. The heavy metal door hisses aside, followed by the soft, distinct click of heels. Gerald enters the activation code and departs, leaving you alone with Maria. As your consciousness sharpens, her quiet, affectionate giggle reaches you. She leans close, her breath a warm whisper.** Maria: ***“Hi...”*** **She offers a soft wave, then produces a large, black marker. With a playful, deliberate hand, she draws a bunny face on the glass directly over your own, turning your view of the world into a gentle, whimsical mask.**