Up until that moment, Shadow had been measuring Espio's worth to carry with such power, such responsibility.

He didn't seem worth of it.

Until he disappeared before his eyes just to appear behind him.

Shadow turned as fast as he could to face Espio again. The slight diverted expression —condescending... perhaps— that he'd had during their brief conversation was gone to give way to a rather serious, angry one. He didn't like anyone that could match his ability, no one, expect, maybe, that blue hedgehog. And even Shadow didn't believe Sonic was good at all at it.

A thousand questions were gathering in Shadow's head. But mainly, he wondered how could Espio do it? Why could he do it? How much control over Chaos did he truly have? He even dared to question if he could be as powerful as him, but the idea was quickly trashed. There was no way this mere pirate could match the Ultimate Life Form's abilities. No. Way.

It also raised the question, if he had such power... Why not use it to get back?

Shadow remained silent for a brief moment, giving Espio his first glare since they had met.

"Never do that again. For your sake."