From Shattered to Mende

Chapter 9

A/N: And this is the last chapter I have finished. The next chapter will be on Monday and my update will be on Monday and Friday.
And here is the warning of this chapter, death.

Shadow's eyes bore into Sonic's, a mix of urgency and concern etched in their crimson depths. "Sonic, listen to me," he implores, his voice cutting through the charged air. "Don't fall into their trap. This isn't the path we've fought for together."

As Sonic wavers under the conflicting influences of the Prism's energy and the persuasive words of his counterparts, Shadow tangible sense of determination emanating from him. "You've always stood for justice, for doing what's right. Don't let them manipulate you into something you're not."

A flicker of doubt crosses Sonic's face as he grapples with the weight of Shadow's words. The enigmatic trio watches with smirks, their agenda clear in the manipulation unfolding before them.

Shadow's gaze intensifies, his voice unwavering. "Sonic, our connection goes beyond friendship or rivalry. We've faced challenges, overcome odds together. This isn't the path to a better world. It's a dangerous illusion."

As Sonic hesitates, uncertainty clouding his features, Shadow silent plea in the gesture. "Remember who you are, Sonic. We're more than pawns in someone else's game. You have the strength to resist their influence."

Phantom, growing impatient with Shadow's interference, glares at him. "Shadow, your futile attempts won't change Sonic's destiny. He's evolving, transcending the limits you cling to."

But Shadow remains resolute, ignoring Phantom's taunts. "Sonic, the choices you make now will ripple through our world. Don't let them take away your agency. You're not alone in this. We'll face whatever comes together."

As Sonic slowly turns to face Shadow, uncertainty lingers in his eyes. "Shadow, I... I don't know what to do," he admits, the turmoil evident in his voice. "The Prism's energy, it's pulling me in different directions."

Shadow's expression softens, understanding the internal struggle Sonic is facing. "Sonic, you don't have to make this choice alone. We'll find another way, together."

Yet, Sonic's gaze shifts again, this time towards Phantom, Sato, and Crela, their smirks and cryptic promises clouding his judgment. The allure of power dances before him, a tempting prospect in the midst of his inner turmoil.

Phantom, seizing the moment, steps forward with a confident smirk. "Sonic, embrace the power within you. Choose the path of evolution. It's time to transcend the boundaries that have confined you."

Sonic's eyes narrow as he considers the mysterious trio's words, the conflicting energies within him pushing him towards a decision. His voice, laced with uncertainty, breaks the tense silence. "I chose..." He pauses, his eyes flickering between Shadow and the counterparts, before making a fateful declaration. "Power."

A surge of energy envelops Sonic, the vibrant hues of the Prism's influence intensifying. Phantom, Sato, and Crela share triumphant glances, reveling in the success of their manipulation.

Shadow's expression shifts from concern to a mixture of disbelief and sorrow. "Sonic, no... Don't let their illusions blind you."

Phantom, basking in Sonic's choice, taunts with a sinister smile. "It's too late, Shadow. Sonic has embraced the inevitable. The world will witness a new era."

Sonic's gaze shifts toward Shadow, the weight of his decision evident in his eyes. "Sorry, Shadow," he utters with a heavy heart, "I love you too, but power is calling for me."

Shadow's expression shifts from disbelief to a profound sense of loss, his outstretched hand frozen in the air. The connection they shared, built through trials and camaraderie, now severed by the allure of the Prism's influence.