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They stared at each other for a few seconds. She knew this might be her only chance to meet someone else from her tribe, especially if he was from the future. "My name is Tikal."
"I'm Knuckles." They held hands and she knew that he was the current guardian of the Master Emerald. He was overconfident and sometimes he could be moody, but he had a good heart... most of all, she could feel his heart beating for someone. That was good. The mission to protect the Emerald was not everything.
"I'm happy to meet you, Knuckles. Even when I have no time left... I must go with Chaos and return to where we belong."
"Y-Yes..." He didn't know what to say. He sure was confused.
"Knuckles." She touched his cheek and moved closer. "You are the one chosen to protect the Master Emerald, I know, but that doesn't mean you should leave what you feel aside. The love you have for him can help a lot... you've already seen how the Chaos Emeralds have been restored... have a little hope."
"W-What are you saying? I don't..."
"I must go..." She felt her body begin to float and Chaos joined her side.
"Tikal!" Sonic shouted, already next to Knuckles. "Be careful..."
"Thank you, Sonic..." She smiled. "Knuckles, mark my words..." And she pointed at Sonic, as she ascended and disappeared into the sunset into her own time and space.
"What did she tell you, Knuckles?"
"...Nothing important!"
"Oh, really? And why was her looking at me? Is it about me?"
Knuckles couldn't help but blush, remembering his ancestor's words. The love you have for him can help a lot... "IT'S NOTHING, SHUT UP SONIC. T-There are things to do..." He didn't move, even when he was right: people were already helping each other and there was a lot to do. Sonic smiled at him.
"Heh, then let's go help." And he winked at him. He really loved Sonic.