**Chapter Two: A Call for Help**

The tranquility of the park now seemed like a distant memory to Sonic as he made his way back home. His thoughts were a whirlwind of emotions, replaying the moment he had confessed his feelings to Shadow. The promise of something more between them gave him a sense of hope and excitement.

However, that hope was soon overshadowed by an ominous presence. As Sonic turned a corner, he found himself face-to-face with one of Shadow's notorious rivals, Blitz the Hedgehog. Blitz was known for his ruthless demeanor and had a bone to pick with Shadow.

"Well, well, look who we have here," Blitz sneered, crossing his arms. "The blue blur himself. What brings you to my part of town, Sonic?"

Sonic's instincts screamed for him to run, but he stood his ground, knowing that showing fear would only embolden Blitz. "I'm just passing through, Blitz. I don't want any trouble."

Blitz's grin widened, and he stepped closer, his eyes gleaming with malice. "Trouble? Oh, Sonic, trouble is exactly what you're going to get. Word on the street is you've been getting cozy with Shadow. That's a dangerous game you're playing."

Before Sonic could react, Blitz and his gang surrounded him, fists and kicks landing with brutal precision. Sonic tried to fight back, but he was outnumbered and outmatched. The world around him blurred as pain and exhaustion took their toll.

Desperation clawed at Sonic's mind, and with a trembling hand, he reached for his communicator. He managed to hit the call button for Shadow before Blitz snatched it away, throwing it to the ground.

Shadow's voice crackled through the communicator, filled with urgency. "Sonic? What's going on?"

Sonic's voice was weak, but he managed to gasp out a few words. "Blitz... park... help..."

Blitz's laughter echoed in Sonic's ears as he lost consciousness. Meanwhile, Shadow's fury ignited. He knew exactly where Sonic was, and he wouldn't let Blitz get away with this.

Shadow turned to his gang, his eyes blazing with determination. "Three-quarters of you, with me. We're going to the park. Now."

Without hesitation, Shadow's loyal followers sprang into action, knowing that their leader meant business. They moved swiftly through the streets, their presence a force to be reckoned with.

As they approached the park, Shadow spotted Sonic lying battered on the ground, surrounded by Blitz and his gang. The sight of his injured friend fueled his anger, and he charged forward with a fierce battle cry.

Blitz barely had time to react before Shadow's gang descended upon them, a whirlwind of fists and fury. Shadow himself confronted Blitz, their clash a testament to the intensity of their rivalry.

"Stay away from Sonic," Shadow growled, his voice low and menacing. "You have no idea who you're messing with."

Blitz staggered back, realizing too late that he had underestimated Shadow's determination. Within moments, Blitz and his gang were forced to retreat, defeated and humiliated.

Shadow knelt beside Sonic, his anger giving way to concern. "Sonic, are you okay?"

Sonic's eyes fluttered open, and he managed a weak smile. "Yeah... thanks, Shadow. I knew you'd come."

Shadow's expression softened, and he gently helped Sonic to his feet. "Always, Sonic. Always."

As they made their way back to safety, Sonic couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of gratitude and admiration for Shadow. Their bond had been tested, and it had only grown stronger.