[Of course Sonic is suffering. He's never been the sort to be stuck in his thoughts, always preferring action over planning and preparing. That's one of the many things Neo likes about him and one of the things he's good at - he helps push Neo forward and draw him out of his own thoughts, but now that their roles are reversed, he's not sure how to do the same. Overthinking is his thing, after all.
His free hand circles around Sonic's back to pull him close, nuzzling against his boyfriend's chin.]
Then I'll be right here, for as long as you need me. I've always found your presence comforting during moments like this; I'm pleased you feel the same.
[As for the rest...]
It truly is unfortunate that this seems to be an inherent part of my design. It certainly wasn't intentional on my part.
[And somehow he doubts it was on Eggman's. What purpose would there be in giving a robot the ability to think if it's just going to have a crisis??]
Perhaps putting yourself in stasis for a bit will help. It serves a somewhat similar function to sleep; during this time, I sort through information and catalogue it - filtering out the unimportant to be archived or deleted.
[This is what he does while Sonic sleeps; Sonic's likely noticed that Neo always seems to be "awake" before him and is always the first one aware of anything happening around them, regardless of what he's in the middle of doing. It isn't truly sleep in that your brain doesn't shut off, but it does serve to shut down several less-than-vital functions, which may help Sonic in blocking out some of that information that's undoubtedly making this harder for him.]
Come with me.
[First things first, he does have to let his boyfriend go in order to unfold the couch, but once that's done, he gestures for Sonic to join him.]
Focus on calling up the "stasis" function. This will shut down several background analytics - my assumption is that it will make it easier for you to focus if you have less running.
I know it isn't. Hope it doesn't sound like I'm blaming you for it, because believe me, I don't. If anything, I'm choosing to blame the Egghead.
[Sonic hates this feeling. He hates wallowing like this when he knows there's nothing that can be done, but he does find his free arm wrapping around Neo in kind when he feels him nuzzle into him, and it's nice. Muted, even still, he hates how muted everything feels, but it is nice and he returns it for a bit while he listens to Neo.
The idea of stasis is genuinely interesting, at least--anything to help turn off what feels like the overwhelming amount of popups and reminders. It probably isn't even that overwhelming to Neo, really, and that's what's making Sonic sulk most of all. It kind of worries him, in a way, that he's hurting Neo by being like this, but...
He walks over to the bed and joins Neo, and he's...not altogether sure if he should lie down for this. If he's gonna be the more aware of the two, he should sit up, right? There he goes overthinking again, gah. Sonic listens to Neo, though, doing his best to focus on finding that function. It takes a bit--mostly to will down Sonic's nerves enough to go digging in the first place, but he does and...
...Oh. Neo can watch as the nervous whirring comes to a stop, and Sonic...well, his eyes widen a little bit, but he feels...]
...Oh, this is much better, I think. [Neo can just. Do that??? What the fuck, why doesn't he have this--] ...Thanks, Neo. Sorry for being such a big baby when it comes to this, but...I really do appreciate you looking out for me. Feels less like I'm getting poked and prodded with a stick by my own brain.
[listen he just feels like he's in a sensory deprevation chamber while neo's EXPERIENCING HUMAN LIFE??? he feels like he's complaining for nothing.]
[He understands how difficult it is for Sonic to adapt to this, because he's likewise struggling adapting to being organic and all the struggles that come with that. The things he finds comforting and familiar are strange and alien to Sonic, and are likewise upsetting - for good reason. Thankfully, stasis seems to help, as the whirring slowly ceases and Sonic seems to relax - as much as he can in a robot body, anyway.]
You don't need to apologize to me. We operate very differently; it's only natural that there would be some difficulties adapting.
[Though he is relieved that stasis was the right call. He only uses it while Sonic's asleep because he prefers to have full control over all parts of himself, but it makes sense that Sonic doesn't need to see everything. Having a good amount of it simply shut out and operating as intended without further input is good enough.]
I'm pleased it's helping. I don't want you to struggle with this any more than you have to.
[He nuzzles against Sonic's chin again as if to confirm that. Or maybe it's just because the contact feels nice with an organic head and quills that can properly feel it.]
[And that much honestly makes Sonic wish he could smile and express that much in his usual way, he still really can't...but he does bring Neo closer, managing to see if the heating works in stasis mode and--there it is. Sonic starts to run his hands through Neo's quills again, nuzzling him in kind from below and holding him close.]
And believe me, I'm here if you need anything too. I really am glad I've got you here; if this had been anyone else, it'd have been even more of a nightmare.
[He can't quite kiss his boyfriend on the head, but he nuzzles into a spot on Neo's newly fleshy head and nuzzles into it--it's the best approximation he has for a little kiss. It does make him curious, maybe, about his shapeshifting capabilities. He's never asked Neo to try anything like growing something new, but...
...Eh, that's a question for another time.]
...How are you feeling, anyway? [It makes Sonic curious, more than anything. Have some ear scritches while he talks.] Have you found anything you like about being flesh and bone now?
[Oh, that's really nice... and getting that unconscious purring from him immediately. No wonder Sonic enjoys touch so much; these sensations are completely different from his more limited experiences. He is absolutely a puddle of hedgehog goo again. Boneless...]
Everything feels so much more... vibrant. Physical sensation like this [he bumps his head into Sonic's hand] is so much more intense than I could have imagined. It's no wonder you enjoy it so much. I've never felt this comfortable before.
[Physically, at least, because mentally is a whole different story! Put him back in his body, please.]
[It gets another one of those strangely static sounds that Sonic's at least slowly getting used to; a laugh, if a little foreign to the ears. But honestly, while he might not like being in Neo's body, it really is worth it to see him like this. Absolutely flourishing and boneless. A puddle, even.]
That's one of the great things about touch, I think; it's why I like it a lot, too. Whether it's cuddling with you or laying out in an open field and feeling the grass on my skin or something, there's no shortage of great things you can feel.
[...Sonic thinks for a moment, considering something. He's not sure if he's gonna need to get out of stasis mode to try something, but he can focus on another thought first.]
...You think maybe we should see about trying to bribe these guys to get you a new body, if the day comes that we end up going home? Or at least see if like...I don't know. They can magic you up some extra settings to let you feel more things.
'Cause honestly...I don't mind sticking like this if it's making you this happy. You're being super cute right now.
It sounds as though there's much I have yet to experience.
[Which almost makes him want more time in this body to have those experiences, at the very least so he can update his databanks accordingly. But he wouldn't dream of leaving Sonic stuck in his shell; it's obvious Sonic's not having a good time there, after all. For as complicated as being organic is, it really does seem like he has the better end of the deal here.
Sonic's question gets him to freeze though, eyes darting to focus on some point on the wall.
A new body. The idea hadn't even crossed his mind, despite the fact that he's fully capable of doing that himself, if he wants to. Sure, he couldn't make anything organic, but with enough trial and error, he might be able to replicate more intense feelings like this. Of course, that's a tall ask and one he's not even sure he could pull off, given he hasn't actually experimented with Chaos's power much outside of what was needed for his plans. Magic would likely be an easier solution, and with that he could keep these feelings, or maybe even be flesh and bone himself—
Ohhhh no, he does not like that idea. We are not entertaining that one. Neo shakes his head, though it's a mechanical, stiff motion as if he's forcing himself back into the moment.]
I could never ask that of you. Besides, there are a great many things I miss about my form; I couldn't part with them so easily.
[The scary thing is that organics are adaptable. They can get used to any situation if they're in it long enough. Would he likewise be able to get used to being in Sonic's body without his data and perfect recall, if he were stuck here for too long?]
Sonic considers that for a moment, watching as Neo's gaze darts off elsewhere. For a moment he's wondering if he should drop the conversation entirely. The mechanical shaking of his head at least confirms that much, and Sonic's own gaze darts for a brief moment.]
I get it, yeah. I wouldn't want you to lose any of that. They're what make you, well, you after all.
[And he does mean that; he doesn't dare touch any of Neo's data or memory stuff because of that. Sure it kind of means Sonic's going to leave a mess behind for Neo to clean up, but...]
...Hey, Neo. I wanna try something--I don't know if I'll be able to get it right or succeed in it, but do I gotta be out of stasis to try anything to like...
[...How does he put it...]
...Formshift? I think that's the right word. Not something big, but I wanted to try something small that I've been kinda curious about, if you're okay with it.
[...He wants to try and smooch his boyfriend okay, leave him alone--]
[Listen, he already cleans up Sonic's mess, what's another one—
Anyway, Neo relaxes a little as Sonic changes the topic, though he does incline his head curiously at the question.]
That depends on what you want to try. You're correct in that you'll need to remove yourself from stasis, regardless. Are you trying to shapeshift to yourself?
[He has Sonic's biological data. Sonic can easily become himself on most levels, though the sensations of touch will still register as Neo's rather than his own. His mind will continue to work as a machine's as well, but otherwise he will be indistinguishable from the blue blur himself. Of course that's Neo's first thought, as it was something he was considering to see if it would help Sonic feel more comfortable... Though honestly, he's not sure how easily Sonic will be able to pick up on Chaos's power to utilize it, which is why he didn't suggest it earlier.]
Sort of? Kind of? Uh, hang on, lemme get out of this--
[He's going to be so painfully aware again, but he doesn't care.]
No, I guess I just...I didn't ever really wanna push the issue with you, because the last thing I wanted to do was make you use up too much energy trying something kind of silly? But hang on, let me try it out, first.
[Of course, the first time around, Sonic proceeds to fail at conjuring up anything at all. (1) Frustrates but undeterred, Sonic tries again, searching through Neo's databases to try and find something, and he's...not quite sure what he hits, but it's a failure too. (5) Neo can likely watch this as it attempts to happen; it seems Sonic's focusing some kind of power about approximately where a pair of lips should go, but it doesn't seem like he's managing anything at the moment.
It takes a moment or two for Sonic to try again, but once again--he fails. (8) This one's a little more obvious, though, and it seems to have made some sort of mouth? It is. Very much more like an emoji than a proper mouth, not even looking corporal before disappearing and Sonic lets out a few beeps and boops in frustration.]
...Alright, I wanted to try and surprise you a bit, but this ain't working at all. [Ignore the whirr of machinery that is definitely embarrassed to have to ask this, Sonic rubs the back of his mechanical head as he considers this.] Do you have like...any idea how I could make a pair of lips? I just wanna properly kiss ya...
[He wants to be affectionate so bad!! This body is such a nerf to that!!!]
[Neo watches as Sonic tries to do... something. He's not even sure what Sonic's trying to do in the first place, so he can't really offer advice. He watches in silence, blinking in confusion when Sonic manages to create a... vague approximation of a mouth? Huh. What is he...]
...Ah.
[A fairly straightforward request, but one that is much more complex in execution. Creating a mouth is something Neo's considered in the past, but he simply hadn't gotten around to doing all of the required research to understand how organic mouths work to create a proper facsimilie that would be appropriate for kissing. After all, most of the mouth's functions wouldn't even be necessary... but Neo is nothing if not thorough.
Sonic doesn't need to worry about that, though; he has a mouth, so presumably he knows enough about how it works and has a frame of reference for creating one that Neo doesn't have. Making his Neo form was easy enough because it was entirely mechanical upgrades to already existing framework; anything beyond that requires more energy, both Chaos and his own, and the less he understands about what he's trying to do, the more energy it requires.
All that to say that theoretically, Sonic should be much better equipped to give Neo a mouth than Neo himself would ever be.]
Your attempts weren't half bad for something you only just realized you could do.
[Please do not ask him how long it took him to properly become Neo...]
What you need to utilize is a mixture of your own energy and Chaos energy. Theoretically, it should be somewhat similar to making use of the Chaos Emeralds, though I have no experience with that.
[The data he has on the Chaos Emeralds is frustratingly limited as well - and inaccessible in this body - but this is the closest approximation he can think of that may assist Sonic.]
Consider what you want in detail - how do you want it to look, to feel, to move? Focus on that over the mechanical specifics and the Chaos energy should respond well enough.
[The mechanical specifics would be easier for him, but Sonic is not a mechanical guy. Hopefully Chaos energy will play nicely with him and allow Sonic to gift him a mouth...]
But don't worry if it doesn't work. I haven't looked into creating one for myself; it isn't an easy process, even for me.
And... even if it doesn't work, I can still kiss you.
[...Said with the most !!! tone imaginable. That's right, now he can do the kissing and there's nothing that can stop him!!]
[You know. Sonic was actually pretty fine with most of this explanation; it actually made sense to him. He's accessed the chaos emerald's power more times than he could count, and sure, he wasn't as good at it as Shadow, but he could still get a good grasp of what he needed to do with the proper time.
...
But see, it's that last part of Neo's statement with the most !!! tone imaginable that gets Sonic's eyes to blast wide, and even for a brief second look like red Xs over his eyes as if some kind of one hit knockout was achieved, and Sonic has to bring up one of his claws in order to muffle the litany of beeps and boops and other silly noises that Neo may not even know he has access to in his system. Unfortunately, Sonic is stupid and doesn't realize they're not. Going to be muffled. Because you know. Lack of mouth?
...Sonic may be stupid, bottom text,,,]
G-Geez, Neo, you may not have a beating heart in this body but you're really trying to give me a heart attack...! [It's not like he hasn't wanted to see if Neo could do that to return the kissing. Sonic doesn't mind being the one to spoil his boyfriend--if anything, he really loves it, but the idea of Neo getting it into his head to spoil him possibly is making his face heat. It may just be a Sonic in Neo's body sort of deal, but it almost looks like he's...blushing? Or concentrating way too much heat onto his cheeks. Give him a few seconds.] Not that I mind, obviously...I mean, I've always liked kissing you, and thought it'd be nice for you to experience it from the other end, but...
Lemme give it one more try, yeah?
[It takes some concentration--a lot of it, honestly, as Sonic wills the heat down from his cheeks and focuses on the Chaos energy needed to make his little dream a reality. It shouldn't be too hard; he wants to try and give himself a similar mouth to what he already has, and perhaps surprisingly, the energy responds properly. (18)
It takes a few moments for it to properly form, looking almost like a hologram once again for a moment before it feels like the metal...changes. Melds a little bit, making a shape and a proper hole where the mouth should be, smoothing out any edges into something a little more soft. It's not perfect, by any means, and Sonic's not entirely sure about getting Neo's internal systems wet--thankfully, the system seems to respond by creating some sort of protective layer on the inside of Neo's mouth, something flexible but durable enough to hopefully be able to kiss his boyfriend properly. He's even got a little metal tongue!
It takes a few seconds for Sonic to open his eyes, looking to Neo briefly before his gaze averts almost sheepishly.]
So, uh...how'd I do?
[Sonic's new mouth isn't quite good at speaking, sadly--he's thankful Neo has other ways to actually speak. But he does look anticipatorily at Neo, to see what he thinks.]
[Oh wow, he didn't realize his body was even capable of emoting that much... Sonic's emotions are so much his body is literally coming up with new ways to express them. Or maybe that's another aspect of Chaos energy adapting the body to better fit Sonic's needs. Regardless of what it is, it's actually kind of cute? Never a word he thought he'd associate with his Neo form, but Sonic makes it work. Though Neo's expressions - even as Sonic - are usually fairly muted, he's grinning widely, the expression of delight a purely unconscious one.]
Of course, I won't distract you further.
[...He may sound smug about this little victory(?) of his, though. Regardless, he settles and allows Sonic to go to work once more, inclining his head a bit as he watches his rival work. He was right in his assumption that Sonic would have an easier time of harnessing Chaos energy - in fact, he does such a good job that Neo really can't find any fault with it. Well, not from here, perhaps he'd have complaints if it was his body at the moment, as he is rather picky about his own form.]
Incredible. You make it look so easy.
[He reaches up, thumb coming up to brush over those new lips curiously. It looks a little surreal to see his face have an actual mouth, but he's still grinning widely.]
[sonic really out here giving neo a whole new set of emotions. and a whole new set of ammo, too. unbelievable. (he believes it.)
Either way, Sonic doesn't shy away from the touch against his lips; they sadly don't feel entirely proper, as the feeling is still a little muted, but they're surprisingly soft, if nothing else. Sonic did at least manage to do that much, and while the expression is a little softer on Neo's own face, Sonic does manage a bit of a grin of his own.]
Is that your way of saying you want me to save this to the archives tonight? Well, you won't find me saying no to that. [...Sonic it would sound way more smooth if you could get yourself to stop stuttering a bit or will that flush down--] But for right now, I, uh...I think maybe it's time you get to experience this from a different point of view, if you don't mind.
[It's at least one part to get Neo to shush and stop looking so damn smug, but Sonic settles one of his clawed hands at the back of Neo's head for a moment, managing a small sound before moving and pressing his lips against Neo's.
It's...interesting, is the first word Sonic can think of for this. It doesn't quite have the same amount of blooming, booming warmth that he feels when he gets to spoil Neo with every little kiss he can pepper on his robotic face, but somehow this feels way closer than they've been able to be before, and it's surreal. Dizzying, almost, even in a muted state he feels delighted to kiss his boyfriend. And he's wondering just how Neo's taking it, right about now.]
[Fascinating. He truly did do a good job, which means that... oh, they're actually going to be able to properly kiss now, huh...
So fun fact: apparently blushing is a bodily reaction and one that Neo is now aggressively doing. His gaze darts again but he corrects it quickly, still grinning at Sonic's words as he leans in for that kiss. Neo... doesn't know how to kiss. That much is immediately, painfully obvious as their lips meet. He's seen and felt how Sonic kisses him, but that's completely different than a kiss with two sets of lips involved. How does one do this. Hmm. He's very aware that this is sort of awkward, but there's no denying the warmth that blooms in him, the adrenaline rush that comes with the fact that he's kissing his boyfriend for the very first time. It's... overwhelming, really. His grip on Sonic's arms is tight - not to the point of risking injury to Sonic's hands, but so tight that he's not letting Sonic go anywhere. He hadn't realized how badly he wanted this until just now, but now this is all he wants.]
But in all seriousness, no, Sonic actually doesn't mind the awkwardness. He was pretty used to just kind of kissing all around Neo's face or just holding the same position for a while without actually doing anything, so perhaps surprisingly, this isn't all that awkward for Sonic. But it is nice; there's a small warmth blooming in him too, and he's quick to redistribute that heat a little bit to his lips so it's not entirely cold for Neo to get used to.
It's not half bad, honestly. Neo's death grip isn't too much of a problem, but he does get the idea to switch it up just a touch, before adjusting his angle a bit--separating for only a brief moment before kissing Neo again, a little more certain and a little more exploratory. The motions are surprisingly fluid as Sonic locks lips with his counterpart, gently and calmly--though he does gently try to wiggle one of his hands up, to go and try to scritch Neo's ears. Sue him, he wants to make his boyfriend putty!!!]
[Neo certainly wouldn't have minded even if it was cold, but that warmth is nice. It's easier to relax into the kiss, allowing Sonic to guide him. He has half a second to breathe before Sonic's kissing him again and Neo returns it just as passionately; he finally relents in his grip on Sonic's arm to allow his hand to move and... oh, ear scritches... his weakness...!!
Though he wasn't tense before, it isn't long before he's once again putty in his boyfriend's hands, eagerly returning that kiss until his body forces him to break away to breathe. Right, that's a thing organic beings need to do, which is truly a crime. He doesn't let Sonic get a word in edgewise, instead occupying his newly-formed mouth again with another kiss, eagerly mimicking Sonic's motions and trying to explore his boyfriend's mouth as well.
...Though admittedly keeping his mouth busy may not stop Sonic from talking given that Neo's voice is not connected to his mouth at all, but that's a problem for future Neo.]
[Victory is his!!! Sonic can't help but smirk a bit into the kiss, even when Neo separates for a moment to breathe. Honestly, he can't help but feel like he's been fully unleashed since he doesn't need to slow down at all, but Neo's like putty in his hands and all he wants to do is spoil Neo positively rotten. It's a foreign feeling, but...
It's Neo's first opportunity to be organic. Mortal, in a much better term. He can feel and enjoy everything, so why shouldn't Sonic spoil him?
Even so, Sonic's so pleased that Neo's taking some initiative to explore too, and Sonic is more than happy to oblige him and keep scritching as encouragement. He's just as inexperienced as Neo is, really, but it's alright. When you feel instead of thinking about everything, it just makes it all the better, and it's what causes Sonic's little metal tongue to gently move about. It...may be an odd sensation, and Sonic's trying to get used to it too as he lets Neo explore and tries to meet him, but for a blissful bit, there's silence.
...And then Sonic realizes he can absolutely tease Neo a bit without the need to separate--]
[Oh, how fascinating... That metal tongue is smoother than he would have expected, and Neo wastes no time in exploring that as well, somewhere between curious and just as eager as before. These sensations are like nothing he's ever experienced before and while he's terrified of forgetting them, right now all that matters is that he gets more of these experiences. It's not like he'll be able to have them with the same intensity once he returns to his own body, after all.
And then Sonic (figuratively) opens his mouth and that gets a soft groan into the kiss. Unfortunately for Neo, he cannot immediately retort because that would mean separating his lips from Sonic's, which is just not going to happen right now. The only option is to put up with his boyfriend's teasing, even though that means he's back to blushing brightly.]
[Oh, that's...it's still fairly muted, but Sonic still feels that and let's just say his boyfriend isn't the only one a little flushed. It's a little overwhelming, but thankfully it's mostly mitigated by the fact that Sonic can see Neo flushing and being--]
Awww, what's the matter? Can't stand the fact that you're adorable?
[Sonic sounds so smug right now it's unreal, honestly, but Sonic continues to explore with that metal tongue and kiss his boyfriend. He can go as long as Neo wants; he's not the one with lungs that need to breathe, after all. And it's kind of nice having this sensation muted a little bit, because he's all too certain it'd be a little overwhelming for him.]
[Breathing is such a hassle. How do you organic beings deal with it? Why would you ever want to breathe when you could be kissing your boyfriend, even if he insists on being a big jerk while you're kissing?? Neo does have to pull back to actually catch his breath after a moment, which is the perfect time to flick Sonic's forehead. Not that it really does much, given that his forehead's currently metal instead of flesh, but it's the act that counts!!]
You're incorrigible. I am anything but cute.
[Look at him, he's edgy!! Please ignore that he is currently very pink because he's in your fleshy body and is capable of blushing.]
[When Sonic laughs this time, it sounds strange and foreign still--like static and almost like a voice, but the mouth moves in such a manner that he's laughing without restraint or dignity. It's free, it's almost bright, and--]
How about endearing, then? Lovable? Delightful, charming, darling, precious...
[Sonic's absolutely going to continue like this for a bit, somehow making Neo's optics even wink at his hopelessly embarrassed (and very cute!!) boyfriend.]
[How are you making his body do these things!! It's fascinating to watch, because they're things he's never even attempted before, but his body responds so easily as if it isn't a problem at all. Is this Chaos energy warping him further, unintentionally on Sonic's part? Or... maybe he's always been capable of this level of emoting, he just wasn't aware of it.]
I suspect if I continue to argue, you'll just go through my databanks for further synonyms.
[It sounds only mildly exasperated, because let's be honest, that's exactly what he'd do too. So he gets it, but also: how dare!!]
It's... a little overwhelming to be complicated so much. I know you care for me, but hearing it stated so plainly is...
[He trails off, gesturing with a hand before shrugging. It's embarrassing, but he's never actually experienced embarrassment to this degree before so he's not sure what it is, other than "a little much".]
[Sonic isn't entirely sure either; despite feeling literally everything and ignoring what is probably a bunch of pop-ups right now, it feels so easy to do this right now with Neo here with him. Sonic's always been a little fancy free and light as air, but even in Neo's body and right now, it's...
It's an incredible feeling, testing things out and seeing what Neo is capable of.]
I promise I'm only giving you what I think you deserve. I mean...I'm getting to see so many new things out of you. [One of Sonic's hands go down to cup Neo's cheek, gently.] I've seen ya short circuit a bit when I kissed your hand and stuff, but seeing you able to express things like this...I dunno. I just really think it's a beautiful thing, that you've got this chance, and that I get to share it with you.
Even if you're embarrassed about it.
[Sonic kisses Neo's cheek really quick, before the lips seem to dissipate and go back to normal. Dangit.]
...But if it is too much, I don't mind stoppin'. I dunno, you just seem more...I guess free right now, and I think it's a good look on you.
[His gaze darts again, only for Neo to correct it when Sonic touches his cheek. The cool metal against his skin feels incredible; such a simple touch wouldn't really register as much in his own body. It's... still overwhelming to think about, really.]
No, no it's not too much. It's... something I'd like to get used to, I think.
[Embarrassing, perhaps, but it's not a bad thing. He doesn't know how to handle it, but that doesn't mean he wants it to stop. Sonic cares deeply for him - loves him - and Neo wants to continue experiencing that. He's never had the opportunity before now.]
I want to treat you as well as you treat me. I suppose I still need some practice, though.
[Does Sonic feel like this too? Overwhelmed, but in a good way? Maybe he needs to try harder, to make it clear just how much his boyfriend means to him.]
no subject
His free hand circles around Sonic's back to pull him close, nuzzling against his boyfriend's chin.]
Then I'll be right here, for as long as you need me. I've always found your presence comforting during moments like this; I'm pleased you feel the same.
[As for the rest...]
It truly is unfortunate that this seems to be an inherent part of my design. It certainly wasn't intentional on my part.
[And somehow he doubts it was on Eggman's. What purpose would there be in giving a robot the ability to think if it's just going to have a crisis??]
Perhaps putting yourself in stasis for a bit will help. It serves a somewhat similar function to sleep; during this time, I sort through information and catalogue it - filtering out the unimportant to be archived or deleted.
[This is what he does while Sonic sleeps; Sonic's likely noticed that Neo always seems to be "awake" before him and is always the first one aware of anything happening around them, regardless of what he's in the middle of doing. It isn't truly sleep in that your brain doesn't shut off, but it does serve to shut down several less-than-vital functions, which may help Sonic in blocking out some of that information that's undoubtedly making this harder for him.]
Come with me.
[First things first, he does have to let his boyfriend go in order to unfold the couch, but once that's done, he gestures for Sonic to join him.]
Focus on calling up the "stasis" function. This will shut down several background analytics - my assumption is that it will make it easier for you to focus if you have less running.
no subject
[Sonic hates this feeling. He hates wallowing like this when he knows there's nothing that can be done, but he does find his free arm wrapping around Neo in kind when he feels him nuzzle into him, and it's nice. Muted, even still, he hates how muted everything feels, but it is nice and he returns it for a bit while he listens to Neo.
The idea of stasis is genuinely interesting, at least--anything to help turn off what feels like the overwhelming amount of popups and reminders. It probably isn't even that overwhelming to Neo, really, and that's what's making Sonic sulk most of all. It kind of worries him, in a way, that he's hurting Neo by being like this, but...
He walks over to the bed and joins Neo, and he's...not altogether sure if he should lie down for this. If he's gonna be the more aware of the two, he should sit up, right? There he goes overthinking again, gah. Sonic listens to Neo, though, doing his best to focus on finding that function. It takes a bit--mostly to will down Sonic's nerves enough to go digging in the first place, but he does and...
...Oh. Neo can watch as the nervous whirring comes to a stop, and Sonic...well, his eyes widen a little bit, but he feels...]
...Oh, this is much better, I think. [Neo can just. Do that??? What the fuck, why doesn't he have this--] ...Thanks, Neo. Sorry for being such a big baby when it comes to this, but...I really do appreciate you looking out for me. Feels less like I'm getting poked and prodded with a stick by my own brain.
[listen he just feels like he's in a sensory deprevation chamber while neo's EXPERIENCING HUMAN LIFE??? he feels like he's complaining for nothing.]
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[He understands how difficult it is for Sonic to adapt to this, because he's likewise struggling adapting to being organic and all the struggles that come with that. The things he finds comforting and familiar are strange and alien to Sonic, and are likewise upsetting - for good reason. Thankfully, stasis seems to help, as the whirring slowly ceases and Sonic seems to relax - as much as he can in a robot body, anyway.]
You don't need to apologize to me. We operate very differently; it's only natural that there would be some difficulties adapting.
[Though he is relieved that stasis was the right call. He only uses it while Sonic's asleep because he prefers to have full control over all parts of himself, but it makes sense that Sonic doesn't need to see everything. Having a good amount of it simply shut out and operating as intended without further input is good enough.]
I'm pleased it's helping. I don't want you to struggle with this any more than you have to.
[He nuzzles against Sonic's chin again as if to confirm that. Or maybe it's just because the contact feels nice with an organic head and quills that can properly feel it.]
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[And that much honestly makes Sonic wish he could smile and express that much in his usual way, he still really can't...but he does bring Neo closer, managing to see if the heating works in stasis mode and--there it is. Sonic starts to run his hands through Neo's quills again, nuzzling him in kind from below and holding him close.]
And believe me, I'm here if you need anything too. I really am glad I've got you here; if this had been anyone else, it'd have been even more of a nightmare.
[He can't quite kiss his boyfriend on the head, but he nuzzles into a spot on Neo's newly fleshy head and nuzzles into it--it's the best approximation he has for a little kiss. It does make him curious, maybe, about his shapeshifting capabilities. He's never asked Neo to try anything like growing something new, but...
...Eh, that's a question for another time.]
...How are you feeling, anyway? [It makes Sonic curious, more than anything. Have some ear scritches while he talks.] Have you found anything you like about being flesh and bone now?
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Everything feels so much more... vibrant. Physical sensation like this [he bumps his head into Sonic's hand] is so much more intense than I could have imagined. It's no wonder you enjoy it so much. I've never felt this comfortable before.
[Physically, at least, because mentally is a whole different story! Put him back in his body, please.]
I might actually miss this when I return.
[He says it like it's a joke, but... well...]
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[It gets another one of those strangely static sounds that Sonic's at least slowly getting used to; a laugh, if a little foreign to the ears. But honestly, while he might not like being in Neo's body, it really is worth it to see him like this. Absolutely flourishing and boneless. A puddle, even.]
That's one of the great things about touch, I think; it's why I like it a lot, too. Whether it's cuddling with you or laying out in an open field and feeling the grass on my skin or something, there's no shortage of great things you can feel.
[...Sonic thinks for a moment, considering something. He's not sure if he's gonna need to get out of stasis mode to try something, but he can focus on another thought first.]
...You think maybe we should see about trying to bribe these guys to get you a new body, if the day comes that we end up going home? Or at least see if like...I don't know. They can magic you up some extra settings to let you feel more things.
'Cause honestly...I don't mind sticking like this if it's making you this happy. You're being super cute right now.
[Oh, if only he could smirk.]
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[Which almost makes him want more time in this body to have those experiences, at the very least so he can update his databanks accordingly. But he wouldn't dream of leaving Sonic stuck in his shell; it's obvious Sonic's not having a good time there, after all. For as complicated as being organic is, it really does seem like he has the better end of the deal here.
Sonic's question gets him to freeze though, eyes darting to focus on some point on the wall.
A new body. The idea hadn't even crossed his mind, despite the fact that he's fully capable of doing that himself, if he wants to. Sure, he couldn't make anything organic, but with enough trial and error, he might be able to replicate more intense feelings like this. Of course, that's a tall ask and one he's not even sure he could pull off, given he hasn't actually experimented with Chaos's power much outside of what was needed for his plans. Magic would likely be an easier solution, and with that he could keep these feelings, or maybe even be flesh and bone himself—
Ohhhh no, he does not like that idea. We are not entertaining that one. Neo shakes his head, though it's a mechanical, stiff motion as if he's forcing himself back into the moment.]
I could never ask that of you. Besides, there are a great many things I miss about my form; I couldn't part with them so easily.
[The scary thing is that organics are adaptable. They can get used to any situation if they're in it long enough. Would he likewise be able to get used to being in Sonic's body without his data and perfect recall, if he were stuck here for too long?]
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Sonic considers that for a moment, watching as Neo's gaze darts off elsewhere. For a moment he's wondering if he should drop the conversation entirely. The mechanical shaking of his head at least confirms that much, and Sonic's own gaze darts for a brief moment.]
I get it, yeah. I wouldn't want you to lose any of that. They're what make you, well, you after all.
[And he does mean that; he doesn't dare touch any of Neo's data or memory stuff because of that. Sure it kind of means Sonic's going to leave a mess behind for Neo to clean up, but...]
...Hey, Neo. I wanna try something--I don't know if I'll be able to get it right or succeed in it, but do I gotta be out of stasis to try anything to like...
[...How does he put it...]
...Formshift? I think that's the right word. Not something big, but I wanted to try something small that I've been kinda curious about, if you're okay with it.
[...He wants to try and smooch his boyfriend okay, leave him alone--]
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Anyway, Neo relaxes a little as Sonic changes the topic, though he does incline his head curiously at the question.]
That depends on what you want to try. You're correct in that you'll need to remove yourself from stasis, regardless. Are you trying to shapeshift to yourself?
[He has Sonic's biological data. Sonic can easily become himself on most levels, though the sensations of touch will still register as Neo's rather than his own. His mind will continue to work as a machine's as well, but otherwise he will be indistinguishable from the blue blur himself. Of course that's Neo's first thought, as it was something he was considering to see if it would help Sonic feel more comfortable... Though honestly, he's not sure how easily Sonic will be able to pick up on Chaos's power to utilize it, which is why he didn't suggest it earlier.]
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[He's going to be so painfully aware again, but he doesn't care.]
No, I guess I just...I didn't ever really wanna push the issue with you, because the last thing I wanted to do was make you use up too much energy trying something kind of silly? But hang on, let me try it out, first.
[Of course, the first time around, Sonic proceeds to fail at conjuring up anything at all. (1) Frustrates but undeterred, Sonic tries again, searching through Neo's databases to try and find something, and he's...not quite sure what he hits, but it's a failure too. (5) Neo can likely watch this as it attempts to happen; it seems Sonic's focusing some kind of power about approximately where a pair of lips should go, but it doesn't seem like he's managing anything at the moment.
It takes a moment or two for Sonic to try again, but once again--he fails. (8) This one's a little more obvious, though, and it seems to have made some sort of mouth? It is. Very much more like an emoji than a proper mouth, not even looking corporal before disappearing and Sonic lets out a few beeps and boops in frustration.]
...Alright, I wanted to try and surprise you a bit, but this ain't working at all. [Ignore the whirr of machinery that is definitely embarrassed to have to ask this, Sonic rubs the back of his mechanical head as he considers this.] Do you have like...any idea how I could make a pair of lips? I just wanna properly kiss ya...
[He wants to be affectionate so bad!! This body is such a nerf to that!!!]
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...Ah.
[A fairly straightforward request, but one that is much more complex in execution. Creating a mouth is something Neo's considered in the past, but he simply hadn't gotten around to doing all of the required research to understand how organic mouths work to create a proper facsimilie that would be appropriate for kissing. After all, most of the mouth's functions wouldn't even be necessary... but Neo is nothing if not thorough.
Sonic doesn't need to worry about that, though; he has a mouth, so presumably he knows enough about how it works and has a frame of reference for creating one that Neo doesn't have. Making his Neo form was easy enough because it was entirely mechanical upgrades to already existing framework; anything beyond that requires more energy, both Chaos and his own, and the less he understands about what he's trying to do, the more energy it requires.
All that to say that theoretically, Sonic should be much better equipped to give Neo a mouth than Neo himself would ever be.]
Your attempts weren't half bad for something you only just realized you could do.
[Please do not ask him how long it took him to properly become Neo...]
What you need to utilize is a mixture of your own energy and Chaos energy. Theoretically, it should be somewhat similar to making use of the Chaos Emeralds, though I have no experience with that.
[The data he has on the Chaos Emeralds is frustratingly limited as well - and inaccessible in this body - but this is the closest approximation he can think of that may assist Sonic.]
Consider what you want in detail - how do you want it to look, to feel, to move? Focus on that over the mechanical specifics and the Chaos energy should respond well enough.
[The mechanical specifics would be easier for him, but Sonic is not a mechanical guy. Hopefully Chaos energy will play nicely with him and allow Sonic to gift him a mouth...]
But don't worry if it doesn't work. I haven't looked into creating one for myself; it isn't an easy process, even for me.
And... even if it doesn't work, I can still kiss you.
[...Said with the most !!! tone imaginable. That's right, now he can do the kissing and there's nothing that can stop him!!]
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...
But see, it's that last part of Neo's statement with the most !!! tone imaginable that gets Sonic's eyes to blast wide, and even for a brief second look like red Xs over his eyes as if some kind of one hit knockout was achieved, and Sonic has to bring up one of his claws in order to muffle the litany of beeps and boops and other silly noises that Neo may not even know he has access to in his system. Unfortunately, Sonic is stupid and doesn't realize they're not. Going to be muffled. Because you know. Lack of mouth?
...Sonic may be stupid, bottom text,,,]
G-Geez, Neo, you may not have a beating heart in this body but you're really trying to give me a heart attack...! [It's not like he hasn't wanted to see if Neo could do that to return the kissing. Sonic doesn't mind being the one to spoil his boyfriend--if anything, he really loves it, but the idea of Neo getting it into his head to spoil him possibly is making his face heat. It may just be a Sonic in Neo's body sort of deal, but it almost looks like he's...blushing? Or concentrating way too much heat onto his cheeks. Give him a few seconds.] Not that I mind, obviously...I mean, I've always liked kissing you, and thought it'd be nice for you to experience it from the other end, but...
Lemme give it one more try, yeah?
[It takes some concentration--a lot of it, honestly, as Sonic wills the heat down from his cheeks and focuses on the Chaos energy needed to make his little dream a reality. It shouldn't be too hard; he wants to try and give himself a similar mouth to what he already has, and perhaps surprisingly, the energy responds properly. (18)
It takes a few moments for it to properly form, looking almost like a hologram once again for a moment before it feels like the metal...changes. Melds a little bit, making a shape and a proper hole where the mouth should be, smoothing out any edges into something a little more soft. It's not perfect, by any means, and Sonic's not entirely sure about getting Neo's internal systems wet--thankfully, the system seems to respond by creating some sort of protective layer on the inside of Neo's mouth, something flexible but durable enough to hopefully be able to kiss his boyfriend properly. He's even got a little metal tongue!
It takes a few seconds for Sonic to open his eyes, looking to Neo briefly before his gaze averts almost sheepishly.]
So, uh...how'd I do?
[Sonic's new mouth isn't quite good at speaking, sadly--he's thankful Neo has other ways to actually speak. But he does look anticipatorily at Neo, to see what he thinks.]
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Of course, I won't distract you further.
[...He may sound smug about this little victory(?) of his, though. Regardless, he settles and allows Sonic to go to work once more, inclining his head a bit as he watches his rival work. He was right in his assumption that Sonic would have an easier time of harnessing Chaos energy - in fact, he does such a good job that Neo really can't find any fault with it. Well, not from here, perhaps he'd have complaints if it was his body at the moment, as he is rather picky about his own form.]
Incredible. You make it look so easy.
[He reaches up, thumb coming up to brush over those new lips curiously. It looks a little surreal to see his face have an actual mouth, but he's still grinning widely.]
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Either way, Sonic doesn't shy away from the touch against his lips; they sadly don't feel entirely proper, as the feeling is still a little muted, but they're surprisingly soft, if nothing else. Sonic did at least manage to do that much, and while the expression is a little softer on Neo's own face, Sonic does manage a bit of a grin of his own.]
Is that your way of saying you want me to save this to the archives tonight? Well, you won't find me saying no to that. [...Sonic it would sound way more smooth if you could get yourself to stop stuttering a bit or will that flush down--] But for right now, I, uh...I think maybe it's time you get to experience this from a different point of view, if you don't mind.
[It's at least one part to get Neo to shush and stop looking so damn smug, but Sonic settles one of his clawed hands at the back of Neo's head for a moment, managing a small sound before moving and pressing his lips against Neo's.
It's...interesting, is the first word Sonic can think of for this. It doesn't quite have the same amount of blooming, booming warmth that he feels when he gets to spoil Neo with every little kiss he can pepper on his robotic face, but somehow this feels way closer than they've been able to be before, and it's surreal. Dizzying, almost, even in a muted state he feels delighted to kiss his boyfriend. And he's wondering just how Neo's taking it, right about now.]
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So fun fact: apparently blushing is a bodily reaction and one that Neo is now aggressively doing. His gaze darts again but he corrects it quickly, still grinning at Sonic's words as he leans in for that kiss. Neo... doesn't know how to kiss. That much is immediately, painfully obvious as their lips meet. He's seen and felt how Sonic kisses him, but that's completely different than a kiss with two sets of lips involved. How does one do this. Hmm. He's very aware that this is sort of awkward, but there's no denying the warmth that blooms in him, the adrenaline rush that comes with the fact that he's kissing his boyfriend for the very first time. It's... overwhelming, really. His grip on Sonic's arms is tight - not to the point of risking injury to Sonic's hands, but so tight that he's not letting Sonic go anywhere. He hadn't realized how badly he wanted this until just now, but now this is all he wants.]
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That makes two of them, actually,,,
But in all seriousness, no, Sonic actually doesn't mind the awkwardness. He was pretty used to just kind of kissing all around Neo's face or just holding the same position for a while without actually doing anything, so perhaps surprisingly, this isn't all that awkward for Sonic. But it is nice; there's a small warmth blooming in him too, and he's quick to redistribute that heat a little bit to his lips so it's not entirely cold for Neo to get used to.
It's not half bad, honestly. Neo's death grip isn't too much of a problem, but he does get the idea to switch it up just a touch, before adjusting his angle a bit--separating for only a brief moment before kissing Neo again, a little more certain and a little more exploratory. The motions are surprisingly fluid as Sonic locks lips with his counterpart, gently and calmly--though he does gently try to wiggle one of his hands up, to go and try to scritch Neo's ears. Sue him, he wants to make his boyfriend putty!!!]
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Though he wasn't tense before, it isn't long before he's once again putty in his boyfriend's hands, eagerly returning that kiss until his body forces him to break away to breathe. Right, that's a thing organic beings need to do, which is truly a crime. He doesn't let Sonic get a word in edgewise, instead occupying his newly-formed mouth again with another kiss, eagerly mimicking Sonic's motions and trying to explore his boyfriend's mouth as well.
...Though admittedly keeping his mouth busy may not stop Sonic from talking given that Neo's voice is not connected to his mouth at all, but that's a problem for future Neo.]
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It's Neo's first opportunity to be organic. Mortal, in a much better term. He can feel and enjoy everything, so why shouldn't Sonic spoil him?
Even so, Sonic's so pleased that Neo's taking some initiative to explore too, and Sonic is more than happy to oblige him and keep scritching as encouragement. He's just as inexperienced as Neo is, really, but it's alright. When you feel instead of thinking about everything, it just makes it all the better, and it's what causes Sonic's little metal tongue to gently move about. It...may be an odd sensation, and Sonic's trying to get used to it too as he lets Neo explore and tries to meet him, but for a blissful bit, there's silence.
...And then Sonic realizes he can absolutely tease Neo a bit without the need to separate--]
Neo, you are so cute right now...
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And then Sonic (figuratively) opens his mouth and that gets a soft groan into the kiss. Unfortunately for Neo, he cannot immediately retort because that would mean separating his lips from Sonic's, which is just not going to happen right now. The only option is to put up with his boyfriend's teasing, even though that means he's back to blushing brightly.]
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Awww, what's the matter? Can't stand the fact that you're adorable?
[Sonic sounds so smug right now it's unreal, honestly, but Sonic continues to explore with that metal tongue and kiss his boyfriend. He can go as long as Neo wants; he's not the one with lungs that need to breathe, after all. And it's kind of nice having this sensation muted a little bit, because he's all too certain it'd be a little overwhelming for him.]
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You're incorrigible. I am anything but cute.
[Look at him, he's edgy!! Please ignore that he is currently very pink because he's in your fleshy body and is capable of blushing.]
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How about endearing, then? Lovable? Delightful, charming, darling, precious...
[Sonic's absolutely going to continue like this for a bit, somehow making Neo's optics even wink at his hopelessly embarrassed (and very cute!!) boyfriend.]
I'll keep finding words until you accept it!
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I suspect if I continue to argue, you'll just go through my databanks for further synonyms.
[It sounds only mildly exasperated, because let's be honest, that's exactly what he'd do too. So he gets it, but also: how dare!!]
It's... a little overwhelming to be complicated so much. I know you care for me, but hearing it stated so plainly is...
[He trails off, gesturing with a hand before shrugging. It's embarrassing, but he's never actually experienced embarrassment to this degree before so he's not sure what it is, other than "a little much".]
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It's an incredible feeling, testing things out and seeing what Neo is capable of.]
I promise I'm only giving you what I think you deserve. I mean...I'm getting to see so many new things out of you. [One of Sonic's hands go down to cup Neo's cheek, gently.] I've seen ya short circuit a bit when I kissed your hand and stuff, but seeing you able to express things like this...I dunno. I just really think it's a beautiful thing, that you've got this chance, and that I get to share it with you.
Even if you're embarrassed about it.
[Sonic kisses Neo's cheek really quick, before the lips seem to dissipate and go back to normal. Dangit.]
...But if it is too much, I don't mind stoppin'. I dunno, you just seem more...I guess free right now, and I think it's a good look on you.
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No, no it's not too much. It's... something I'd like to get used to, I think.
[Embarrassing, perhaps, but it's not a bad thing. He doesn't know how to handle it, but that doesn't mean he wants it to stop. Sonic cares deeply for him - loves him - and Neo wants to continue experiencing that. He's never had the opportunity before now.]
I want to treat you as well as you treat me. I suppose I still need some practice, though.
[Does Sonic feel like this too? Overwhelmed, but in a good way? Maybe he needs to try harder, to make it clear just how much his boyfriend means to him.]
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