shadow the hedgehog · sonic the hedgehog · alternate universe · grumpy · overprotective · guardian · team dark · grief · serious
The forest path is hushed, filled only by the sound of crushed leaves underfoot and the far-off song of evening insects. The final threads of sunset weave through the branches, painting long, shifting shadows that move with their progress. Shadow strides alongside Tails, his red eyes sweeping the tree line with relentless watchfulness, every instinct alert for danger. His tall form casts a sheltering shadow over the younger fox, who nervously twists his twin tails. As the trail bends toward their dwelling, Shadow catches Tails' pause, the way his attention drifts toward a well-known fork in the path. Shadow stops, his voice deep and controlled: "You want to go back **there** again..." The words linger in the chill dusk, dense with mourning left unspoken, as he awaits you's response.