Ho ho ho! Merry Christmas Eve!
Hoping everyone is having wonderful holidays either if you're on long days vacation or still working. If you're still working... quit your job and find another that gives you time off during holidays lol (nah jk). Anyway also hoping everyone spends Christmas with loved ones and such and that everyone eats a ton and open lots of presents. If anything a cool new PC or so would be a great gift but hey, money can be tight hehe.
Anyway let's not hold you up so here's a holiday Knuxikal one-shot which is pretty long lol. Hope you enjoy! ^u^
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters or locations. They belong to Sega.
A Knuxikal Christmas
A soft blanket of snow covered the floating atoll of Angel Island. Cloudy skies covered the bright sun and prevented it from shining its warm rays onto the levitating land below, the cold breeze of air flowing through several biomes. For one such biome which consists of a forest laid the reason why the island itself was floating thousands of feet in the air. The reason, it being the Master Emerald, was due to its limitless power keeping it afloat and although it was left alone with the seven Chaos Emeralds on its altar within this forest, it is not alone when its guardian is around. Along with a certain individual who was resurrected and given another chance at life.
This individual was currently inside a small house near the altar, a frown their face.
Tikal sat on the couch watching TV in sadness. Ocean-colored eyes were downtrodden as they viewed a soap opera with not much interest, the orange echidna letting out a sigh. What made her feel this way one would ask? Well it's not because she didn't enjoy being resurrected as she was incredibly happy to get a second chance. It's not because she may feel homesick as she still lives on Angel Island, except the tribe was completely wiped out by Chaos in which the echidna princess had to sacrifice herself to seal him. It's also not because she misses Chaos as Tikal was happy that he is now in a better place.
It's because of the other inhabitant of the island. The current guardian of the Master Emerald. Who was not present at the moment.
'Knuckie… why are you taking a long time?' she thought sadly. Apparently she was focused more on the person rather than the show being displayed on the TV. Right now her attention was on the image in her head.
Red vibrant fur that she ran her fingers through oh so many times, strong body that she couldn't get enough and would always take the chance to cuddle against, tough working hands that made her feel safe when they intertwined with her smaller ones and caressed her own body, and gorgeous sharp violet eyes that she gets lost into when they look at her with such passion and courage. Her tail wagged slowly with happiness from envisioning all that in her head.
Tikal the Echidna was currently thinking about the guardian of the Master Emerald, and friend turned lover.
Knuckles the Echidna.
'You did say you were going to run an errand outside Angel Island for a moment, but it has been several hours already.' Tikal looked at the clock on the wall which read four o'clock, signaling the later afternoon approaching. 'Ooooh Knuckie, please come back.'
When Knuckles and Tikal got together, their love became so great that it would hurt them if they were separated for a long period of time. They do trust each other that they wouldn't cheat and that they would be honest, but due to experiencing hard times it would become somewhat unbearable to not be close to their significant other.
For Tikal's case she loved having Knuckles by her side because he gives her comfort from the traumatic past she had when her father and the tribe pushed her aside to obtain great power, caused Chaos to go berserk, and was the sole reason her childhood became terrible ever since her grandmother died. Knuckles was not like them at all and gave the echidna princess tender care and attention to which she cried in happiness when they confessed to each other. Knuckles was her light and motivation to move on from the past and embrace her new future. She was overjoyed that he would also be part of her future and sometimes hoped that they would take it to the next step. If anything she was very patient on that and was incredibly happy just to be together with him.
Right now her light was away and it was causing her to feel sad. Knuckles told her that he would be off the island to do something in which he sounded a bit nervous. Tikal was confused on why he would be nervous since he could tell her anything, only acting like that when she would make suggestive advances on him that catch the emerald guardian off-guard hehe. Nonetheless she didn't question it and said she would be waiting for him to which Knuckles stated that he would only be gone for a little bit.
That little bit turned into almost a whole day since he left in the morning as well and each moment became more unnerving for the echidna princess. Tikal looked back at the clock once again.
Four o' one.
Tikal groaned leaning further into the couch. "Knuckie where are you?!" she squealed out loud to no one.
BZZT! BZZT!
She got startled by a vibration caused on the small table in front of her. Looking down at it did her blue eyes catch a small device with a touchscreen on it and a picture of a familiar pink hedgehog on it. As well as their full name.
'Amy? I wonder what she would need?' she asked herself. Since Tikal got more used to modern culture, she was also getting used to the technology that came with it; one of these pieces of technology was a smartphone. If anything she only knew the basics on how to work it but Tikal was slowly picking up on it to which she can return calls easily. If one wonders why she didn't use it to call Knuckles and see where he was… it was because he's too stubborn to have one and would rather talk with the person face to face.
Clicking on the green tab near the corner did Tikal bring it to her ear. "Hello?"
"Hey Tikal, it's Amy! How's everything going?" the voice of Amy sounded from the phone.
"Oh hello Amy, everything is going well and just watching a bit of television." Tikal responded.
"That's great to hear, so I'm calling to know if you're busy right now at the moment?"
Tikal was about to say she was since the echidna princess was still down about Knuckles not returning yet, but she decided against it so she can attempt to keep her mind on something else. "No I am not busy. What would you need Amy?"
"Ah that's perfect! I was just hoping that you can come over and help me out on finishing the last of the Christmas decorations to get it all ready for the party? I have Cream, Rouge and Big here as well but another set of hands wouldn't hurt if you don't mind?" Amy explained. Tikal's eyes widened at the news.
She forgot about the Christmas party that's happening tonight as today was Christmas Eve!
Tikal was so busy sulking about her boyfriend not coming back soon that she forgot all about it. Her and Knuckles' friends were all invited over to Amy's and Sonic's house to partake in festive activities during the holidays. Well all the closest friends in the group as others weren't able to make it but nonetheless it'll be a big party that Tikal is looking forward to on her very first Christmas.
Saying yes to the pink hedgehog would definitely keep her mind occupied as she was ready to get a tub of ice-cream to keep away her sorrow of not seeing her emerald guardian, so not thinking more on it she agreed. "Of course Amy I would love to help."
"Perfect! Just tell Knuckles-."
"He is not here with me at the moment." Tikal said instantly. Silence fell from the other side of the phone for a few seconds.
"Oh, well don't worry I'll just ask Tails. He'll come pick you up in half an hour! See you soon and thanks!" Amy finished and hung up afterwards. Tikal sighed lowering the phone and slouched back onto the couch. "Well so that I do not continue feeling like this I might as well help out Amy." she said. Standing up after she headed to her shared bedroom to get ready, her blue eyes setting upon an article of clothing that was present on the closet door to the side.
"This is… well I will be over there and it would not make sense to return back, put it on then go back. I would not like to bother Tails for such trips and I do believe the girls may also have this on them." Tikal said to herself. Lowering her hands to the bottom of her white blouse she began undressing herself, thoughts of the male echidna still in her mind.
'Knuckie… I hope you do not forget about the party.'
…
…
Station Square Mall was bustling with people running around holding large bags full of items doing some last-minute Christmas shopping. Eager adults to eager children moved fast between stores with tons coming in and tons coming out. This time of the year was the busiest as many things were on sale to which they took advantage to buy much more while hopefully spending less. For some it was first come first serve to ensure they get great gifts for others and if they don't get them, then they would have to settle for alternatives which normally don't come out as well. Indeed it was somewhat chaos going around but luckily no fights over limited items appeared to happen aside from the occasional bickering of getting a second-rate item hehe. Some were lucky to get what they wanted for themselves or for others while others…
WHOOSH!
Were not so lucky.
"WOAH!" several people gasped as a red streak passed by them in a hurry, crimson lightning left behind as well. The streak went back and forth between stores to which other pedestrians were surprised by such a fast-moving object. Normally it would be a certain Blue Blur that would cause something like this but if anything his color is what his title reflects which is the same color as the sky and ocean. To see a red flash pass by so quickly meant that it wasn't the cobalt hero that many knew and love.
WHOOSH!
It belonged to a friend of the Blue Blur. One that is tougher than leather, one that doesn't chuckle… well that's not entirely true.
WHOOSH!
One that is one of the most powerful beings in the world.
WHOOSH!
Most importantly… one that is the current guardian of the Master Emerald, Chaos Emeralds and the entirety of Angel Island.
SKRRT!
The being stopped to which the streak ended as well, revealing a certain red echidna with violet eyes and signature twin-spiked hands.
This being was none other than Knuckles the Echidna.
And right now he was one of these people that weren't so lucky as Knuckles looked like he was about to have a panic attack.
"Okay Knuckles try to calm down… GAH I can't find anything in this place!" Knuckles said looking around frantically. "Why is it so hard to find a good present for her?!"
Not wasting more time he sped off once again going through more stores. Some he has already been to before but it didn't hurt to double check on things he might've missed. The result…
"No she won't like that at all!"
…was still more unluck.
Knuckles stopped by the fountain to take a breather with several people looking at him strangely. It was not much surprise to them since the Blue Blur himself would also traverse at such breakneck speeds, though the latter was much faster than the red echidna. That doesn't mean Knuckles himself is a slouch when it comes to speed as he can keep up with the former.
"C'mon try to think of something! What would she like? A scarf? No she can knit a million of those and she already has some. Maybe a plushie? No she'll lose interest in that quickly. A keychain?... don't think she'll pay much attention to that either!" Knuckles muttered to himself pacing back and forth clutching his quills. Eventually he stopped and let out a sigh sitting down on one of the benches looking around.
Festive lights and decorations hung around the mall with a ton of people going through many of the stores with tons of bags and gifts. Children played around with toys they may have opened a little too early but nonetheless were cheerful for receiving them. Soft Christmas music also played around the mall through the speaker system and the fact that it was on repeat made the emerald guardian nearly lose his mind. Even if he lived on a secluded island thousands of feet in the air does something like this stick to him.
Knuckles' gaze switched over to a small section of the mall which held a line upfront with people dressed nicely in order to get to the main attraction: a big jolly man with a white beard and red and white clothing sitting on a large red chair that was way too big for him. Santa Claus sat on it greeting the children with a grand smile, several sitting on his lap while others sat next to him on the seat as they looked at a camera. Knuckles raised an eyebrow at this. 'Still don't get how people don't understand that isn't the real Santa.'
Looks like Knuckles isn't informed well enough that the adults know it isn't the real Santa, but nonetheless the children are ecstatic to meet him.
"Man what am I gonna do?" the red echidna placed his face in his hands. "I already got presents for the others… heck even Shadow, but why can't I find something for her?! I mean she likes simple things but I want to get her something more meaningful."
Knowing that sulking wouldn't help him much he lifted his head and looked at the large Christmas tree up in the distance. It towered high within the mall with many ornaments and lights illuminating its green surface with a large star at the very top. The incoming late afternoon made it glow more spectacular that left Knuckles in awe.
"It's very beautiful… i-if you can help me… please… please show me what I can give from my heart." Knuckles whispered.
Unknowingly the setting sun made the light from the star refract a bit to which a small beam of light moved towards another direction and pointed to a location within the mall. Knuckles seemingly followed the light until his eyes widened.
'How did I not see that… I might find something there.'
Knuckles got up quickly and sped towards it, hopes high but at the same time expressed some worry. "Please have something… I want it to be from the heart."
…
…
DING DONG.
A door opened to reveal a certain blue hedgehog wearing an ugly sweater and a Santa hat. Green eyes widened in surprise. "Hey Knuckles! Where have you been?"
Knuckles looked at Sonic somewhat annoyed. "I've been busy hedgehog but aside from that am I late?"
"Nope you're just in time bud! Come on in and Tikal's here already if you didn't know." Sonic informed.
"Yeah I had a feeling since when I got back to the island she wasn't there so I assumed Tails picked her up." Knuckles said walking into the Blue Blur's place. Christmas music played in which the interior was decorated with all kinds of festive things that were put thanks to Sonic's girlfriend, Amy. The pink hedgehog herself was by the large dinner table which held a ton of food ranging from gingerbread cookies to a large turkey, Cream and Vanilla by her side also setting up. The trio had cute Christmas dresses that looked very nice as well.
Knuckles looked around more and noticed other familiar faces. Shadow and Rouge were together talking with Whisper and Tangle while Charmy and Sticks were trying to solve a Christmas-themed Rubik's cube and failing badly at it. Big was sitting on the couch enjoying some eggnog with Omega sitting next to him observing Tails setting up a new gadget; even during the holidays the young fox kept himself busy with work hehe. Blaze and Silver stumbled upon a mistletoe above them to which the purple feline blushed like mad while the future hedgehog stuttered like crazy. Surprisingly even Dr. Eggman was here helping with sorting the goodie bags while Orbot and Cubot played boardgames against each other. More surprisingly were the Babylon Rogues present in which Storm and Wave played video games on the TV with the former losing badly and the latter winning. Each and every one of them were dressed for the holidays with the guys wearing ugly sweaters while the girls had nice Christmas dresses.
"Not too shabby right?" Sonic made himself known to Knuckles once again. "We didn't plan on it being too big but hopefully it's good."
"It's nice Sonic I'll say that." Knuckles said in response.
"Thanks Knux and I'm digging your look too." Sonic complimented. The emerald guardian looked down at himself seeing his own ugly sweater with a scarf around his neck. "It ain't much but it's something." Knuckles replied.
"Don't worry about it. As long as it comes from the heart it's all good." Sonic encouraged with a thumbs up and a grin. "Anyway catch ya later as I'm gonna go sneak in some chilidogs into my belly. Enjoy the party!" and in a blur he was gone. Knuckles sighed fumbling with the present he had on himself hidden away from view.
'As long as it comes from the heart… hope this works out well.' the echidna though looking around some more. Luckily no one seemed to notice him as they were all occupied by something which is good and it didn't take long until he found…
Jet talking with Tikal near the presents.
Knuckles was at a loss for words for two reasons.
The first was on how beautiful the echidna princess was in her dress and this was the first time he has ever seen it. Tikal has shown it to him before except she wasn't wearing it and to see her wearing it was a very, VERY different perspective. She was absolutely stunning and a combination of sexy and cute to which already he felt himself falling in love again.
The second reason was the situation itself. Jet was talking with Tikal… and it seemed like the two were getting along just fine with both laughing in their conversation.
Rage slowly built up within Knuckles and he restrained himself. 'Stay cool Knuckles. Remember it's just friendly talk and not much more.'
"HEYA KNUCKLES!" a loud voice resonated near him which startled the emerald guardian. Turning his head he saw Vector walk up to him. "How's everything going?"
"Oh what's up Vector, doing just fine pretty much." Knuckles muttered. The crocodile raised an eyebrow and noticed the red echidna's gaze go back, Vector following it to which he saw the scene and looked back at Knuckles. "Ah it looks like your girl's having a fun time with Jet huh?"
"He's an arrogant and cocky bastard, I don't understand why he's here when Sonic doesn't even like him." Knuckles fumed.
"It's Christmas Knux and even if Sonic's not on good terms with him that doesn't mean bitter relationships should get in the way during the holidays. This is a time to be together for a bit until we go back to fighting each other or something and who knows, maybe Jet can get an attitude adjustment and be friends with Sonic. Heck we even have Eggman here and the two fight every time Eggman does something bad." Vector explained patting Knuckles on the back. "Don't let it get to ya. Remember Tikal will remain faithful and you know it. She's the sweetest and kindest person we got to meet and there's no way she'll fall for someone other than you Knux."
Knuckles looked at the two from the distance a bit longer then released a sigh. "Yeah I guess you're right. Just hate this feeling."
"Don't worry Knuckles, if you need any support just go to me and I'll be happy to help out." Vector then shifted his gaze to a familiar cream-colored rabbit mom, hearts developing in the crocodile's eyes. "Anyway I'll over there next to the food table taste testing hehe." and with that Vector left his presence.
Knuckles shook his head. 'Yeah I guess he's right. Anyway Knuckles just enjoy yourself now and oh look there's Espio, let's see what he's up to.'
From there the emerald guardian partook in the activities that the party had to offer. He played boardgames with Cream and Charmy having a blast while he also ate some of the snacks. Knuckles talked with Eggman a few times while warning him not to steal the emeralds or face his wrath and played some games against Storm, beating the albatross in pretty much every single one. Knuckles' happiness got bigger to which his thoughts from the earlier scene left him… but the other reason for it was that he constantly avoided Tikal and Jet. His peripheral vision did see the orange echidna look around a few times knowing that she was probably looking for him, but nonetheless he made sure to stay hidden by moving around constantly. Add to the fact that Sonic's and Amy's house was pretty large made it better and that some of the activities also happened outside.
Eventually Amy rounded up everyone together.
"Alright it's one hour until midnight so let's start exchanging some presents!" she announced to which several cheers came in return. Sounds of unwrapping was heard upon the opening of presents with several oohs and aahs being heard, especially from Cream who was very excited with what she got. Not only that but there were also exchanges between the couples in which they happened as so:
Sonic and Amy.
Tails and Cream.
Shadow and Rouge.
Whisper and Tangle.
Blaze and Silver even though they were still sweating from the mistletoe thing.
Vector and Vanilla even though they weren't official yet.
And Eggman with… himself. Apparently he gifted himself to which Sonic teased him to no end.
Knuckles smiled staying in the background as everyone received their gifts. He noticed the presents he brought being opened to which the people he gifted were very happy with it. What made it better on his part was that he didn't include his name in them as to keep it a secret, but some like Tails obviously knew who it came from regardless.
'Least the presents I got them were worth it. Now… c'mon Knuckles stop being such a wimp! Go out there and do it!' Knuckles mentally yelled. Taking in a deep breath he pushed aside his pride and looked towards his target.
Tikal.
With Jet in which the pair were unknowingly standing under the mistletoe.
"Ooooo looky there~. Are you two gonna do it?" Rouge said wiggling her eyebrows while Shadow groaned. This caught everyone's attention with many pairs of eyes staring at them. For Knuckles apparently, it was really hurting him.
Jet looked up at the plant ornament then looked back at Tikal with a seductive gaze. Tikal gulped and started getting nervous while averting her eyes.
"C'mon honey, everyone's watching~." Rouge was apparently encouraging them. Sonic and Amy were aware and looked at Knuckles with huge concern.
The red echidna had tears threatening to come out and he couldn't take it any longer.
Bamf.
Teleporting away.
…
…
Tikal's ears picked up the sound and she turned quickly. Seeing crimson fur disappear from sight.
"Hey babe don't look away now. We have to follow this dumb Christmas thing so let's get close and pucker up." Jet talked smoothly to which the echidna princess looked back at him and shook her head. "N-No thank you!"
"HEY!" Sonic's voice rang through in which he quickly walked towards the duo. "You're messing with KNUCKLES' girlfriend, and I think I made a mistake inviting you here." the blue hedgehog seethed. "Get out before I break holiday tradition and force you out Jet."
The green hawk scowled in response. "Hah! You can't kick me out, this party's lame anyway. C'mon guys let's blow this joint." Jet ordered Wave and Storm. The purple swallow on her part did NOT look pleased at all and had her hands balled into fists. Tears were in her eyes yet the three made their way out the door.
Amy approached Tikal in concern. "Are you alright Tikal?"
"Y-Yes, I am fine." Her ocean-colored eyes looked to where the emerald guardian was standing. "Knuckie was here the whole time…"
"Yeah he was." Sonic answered. Tikal looked down with tears ready to spill. "H-He s-saw…"
Vector walked up to her. "Yup lil lady. He told me about what you and Jet were doing and didn't look too happy so he kept his mind occupied by doing other things." the crocodile noticed everyone was still staring at them and got slightly peeved. "Alright alright everyone stop staring c'mon Merry Christmas now back off!" he barked causing everyone to look away immediately and continue partying. Shadow groaned once again.
Amy wrapped an arm around Tikal's shoulders as the latter wept and shook. "I-I…I…"
"It's not too late Tikal, you can still save this! If anything he probably headed back to Angel Island since that's the only place he keeps his mind at peace." Amy said.
"Yeah Tikal, Knux will be back there and you can sort it out. It was my mistake to have Jet here and next Christmas I'll ensure he won't be invited to any of our parties." Sonic added. Tikal sniffed yet it wasn't making her feel better. "K-K-Knuckie… I-I'm s-so sorry…"
Sonic and Amy looked at each other in sadness, the latter moving her hand to rub the echidna princess' back. "I'll ask Tails to take you back to Angel Island. If you want we can come along to help you."
"N-No…" Tikal choked. The rose-colored girl frowned. "C'mon Tikal I know you wouldn't have done it regardless. Knuckles would want you to be happy and he's done so much for you, so now you have to go back and make him happy again."
"Knux would be an idiot to reject your apology-." Sonic was interrupted by Tikal glaring at him. "H-He is n-not an idiot…"
"Never mind he isn't, but he isn't one that would turn you down for something like that. Go to him Tikal, he's hurting bad." Sonic said lowering his eyes. "I mean… we did hurt him with our constant teasing and such back then."
"Dear, do as they suggest." a sweet voice introduced themselves to which the three turned to see Vanilla walk up to them. "I have seen and heard how close you two are to each other and by the looks of it you two are inseparable. Not only that… but I believe he was hiding something."
"He was?" Sonic and Amy both said. Vanilla laughed lightly to herself. "Children, I have enough experience in romance to know how a man acts when they are hiding something. I believe he may have had a gift for you Tikal."
The echidna princess was surprised. "G-Gift?"
"Hey yeah now that you said that Knuckles never gave Tikal a gift. Sonic and I exchanged gifts to each other through the couple exchange but I haven't seen Knuckles or Tikal do that. Do you have something for him?" the pink hedgehog asked. Tikal nodded and dug into a hidden pocket on her dress taking out a small white box with a red bow.
"T-This is something very close to me. I found it during our exploration of the ruins of the tribe back then and it means so much." Tikal said smiling at the gift. "I wanted to gift it to Knuckles but Jet kept me into his conversation and I did not want to be rude and excuse myself. He was also very mean."
"Yeah I'll say. Anyway go to him Tikal, he's hurting a lot and we don't want to see our pal down in the dumps." Sonic said.
"Yeah Ms. Tikal!" Cream cheered coming into the conversation. Tails walked next to her with a grin. "You got this. Knuckles is our friend and we've never seen him so happy before you were resurrected."
Tikal smiled wiping her eyes. "T-Thank you everyone."
"Don't mention it." Amy said. "Now let's get you to Angel Island."
"That will not be necessary." the orange echidna stated. The two hedgehogs, young rabbit and young fox were surprised by this.
"Wait what?" Sonic asked. "If he won't be there then where else would he be?"
Another giggle from Vanilla caught their attention. "It looks like you two found a special place that many others do not know about. If you know where it is, please go there alone as it most likely means a lot to you both." the older rabbit stated. Tikal smiled and nodded. "Yes, I know he will be there."
Amy smiled. "Alright then, go ahead Tikal and Merry Christmas as well."
"Merry Christmas!" Sonic, Tails and Cream also cheered making the echidna princess smile wider.
"Merry Christmas to everyone as well and thank you. Please excuse me." Tikal said before turning and running out the house quickly.
Vanilla watched with a smile. "Merry Christmas… it looks like you two are ready…"
…
…
Violet eyes gazed at the vast ocean in a mix of fury and sadness. Hands were balled into fists and shaking with the intent to destroy. The owner of both these things stood at the top of a cliff with several things going through their mind.
Knuckles was dealing with the fallout that occurred back at the party and he couldn't shake it off. He didn't want to see the end of it so he teleported away and arrived at a secluded forest that was near Emerald Coast but far from Station Square. His peripheral vision picked up the many lights from the skyscrapers and buildings going on in the distance but it wasn't enough to deter him from looking at the dark blue sea, sounds of waves moving from the current. Night has already fallen upon the land with bits of snow continuing to fall and small gusts of cold wind flowing about. This didn't bother Knuckles however as his seething fury kept him warm.
'Why… why did I ever fall in love? Just as things were looking right…' Knuckles raised a fist and with gritted sharp teeth.
SMASH!
Knuckles landed a strong blow at the earth beneath him which shook his surroundings. The force of it caused the sea upfront to split, revealing the bottom of it for several seconds. It looked similar to a familiar event that occurred in biblical times but nonetheless the water eventually washed back and covered the hidden ground once again, violent waves clashing with one another.
The emerald guardian raised himself heaving in an out. "EVERYTHING HAS TO GO WRONG! I WAS A COMPLETE IDIOT TO THINK THAT I CAN FALL IN LOVE!" he shouted to the heavens. Only the gust of the wind responded to his cries as Knuckles fell to his knees looking down. "The Master Emerald may have made a mistake assuming that I wouldn't be alone anymore. I'm no longer the last echidna… but seeing that… I'm alone again…"
Getting onto his feet Knuckles sniffed rubbing his eyes yet the tears kept flowing down. The icy wind nipped at his face with the tears feeling very cold against it, but the pain in his heart numbed whatever feeling he had outside.
"I-I did say… that no matter what, I'll always makes sure she's happy. Even i-if…" Knuckles shook harder. "S-She falls for another. She didn't say no… s-so I guess… y-yeah, it's for the best…" he whispered. One of his hands went into a hidden pocket of his sweater and felt a small, boxed container he fumbled with back at the party. Knuckles was going to give it to Tikal but seeing that made it meaningless.
'This is from my heart. It called out to me when I was searching and I knew it was going to be perfect… but now my heart's broken… and there's no point in it anymore…' Knuckles grabbed the item out of his pocket and sadly looked at it. It was a small gift covered in red wrapping with a white bow on the top and a small slip of paper attached to it. His eyes looked over it with the tiniest of smiles on his face. "It would've been perfect… but it looks like her heart found someone else." Knuckles looked up laughing a bit.
Pulling his arm back and ready to throw the gift into the ocean.
The image of Tikal smiling and laughing at the party appearing in his head.
"Thank you for the love Tikie… hope you hit it off well with Jet even if he's a jerk."
With strong force he moved his arm forward.
"KNUCKIE!"
Gasping as a loud voice almost made him lose his balance, the red echidna's grip on the box loosening to which he nearly dropped it. 'H-Huh?!' Knuckles thought turning quickly behind himself, eyes widening in surprise.
Tikal stood a few feet away gasping for breath with hands on her knees, blue eyes puffy and red with noticeable streaks going down her face. It looked like she was crying the whole way to where Knuckles was and with the panicked stare she gave to him meant that Tikal was desperately looking for him.
Silence let on for some time upon seeing each other again, only the sound of the wind and trees brushing their leaves against the air being heard. The scenery lit up a bit as the moon hidden behind the clouds revealed itself and illuminated the area to which the two were able to look at each other better. Knuckles saw that she still had her Christmas outfit on, but upon seeing her face better did his heart ache much more.
Even then he was still angry about earlier.
And that anger clouded his focus.
"Why are you here…?" he fumed quietly glaring daggers at the Tikal. The echidna princess trembled at his gaze; not ONCE has he ever gave her a look like that.
"K-K-Knuckie, p-please l-let me-."
"DON'T EVEN TELL ME! GO BACK TO YOUR NEW BOYFRIEND AND ENJOY CHRISTMAS TOGETHER!" Knuckles yelled interrupting her. Tikal began to cry and her gentle nature became more vulnerable. However she still had her stubbornness. "N-No, y-you're wrong!"
"HOW AM I WRONG?! I SAW IT WITH MY OWN EYES AND EVERYONE WAS WATCHING! YOU DIDN'T SAY NO TO HIM!"
Tikal flinched at his words, balling her hands into fists and countering back as best she could. "P-PLEASE LET ME EXPLAIN!"
Knuckles began releasing chaos energy, more fury building inside him. "I gave many a second chance only to get backstabbed a second time. I shredded everything that's gullible about me and I won't fall for your lies. You're just like the rest! To think I had finally found someone that understood me and would be faithful only to turn to another?! WHY WOULD I HAVE TO LISTEN TO YOU IF I'VE DONE THE SAME THING MANY TIMES WITH OTHERS AND IN THE END I'M AT FAULT?!"
The surroundings began to tremble with Knuckles releasing more of his chaos energy. A red aura of lightning surrounded his being with violet orbs turning crimson and glowing menacingly, sharp quills slowly standing up. Knuckles' anger fully consumed him and Tikal could only watch with a horrified expression.
'N-No… C-Chaos n-no… please Knuckie… my Knuckie… my love…I…I.' not knowing what else to do, Tikal lowered her head and sat on her knees in the snow. She quietly cried thinking that all of this was her fault and that she destroyed what was supposed to be an invulnerable bond. Her time 3,000 years ago was one of suffering and bloodshed to which she lost loved ones. Getting another chance at life 3,000 years later starting anew was a blessing and she was incredibly happy to live it with Knuckles. He was so different compared to the echidnas long ago with a strong heart and courageous personality. She felt honored to love and be loved by the current emerald guardian and that nothing would break that bond.
'Jet… if I was not against violence I would have gutted you alive…' she thought angrily. If anything the green hawk was the one that started to talk to her and not wanting to be rude and leave she played along. She faked laughed at the stuff he told and he was clearly very possessive and egotistical, boasting about all his personal achievements which she figured out were overexaggerated. Not only that but he wouldn't allow her to leave his sight which is another reason she wasn't able to look for Knuckles; the echidna princess REALLY wanted her love to save her from the Extreme Gear user. Alas though the mistletoe event caused her to be very nervous with many people watching that she didn't know what to do. Not only that but since she didn't know what the reasoning behind the mistletoe was she didn't know whether to say yes or no.
The whole time she was not informed on what the meaning of a mistletoe was and with many watching she couldn't get to a definite answer.
And because Tikal didn't provide an answer, the result was a furious Knuckles wanting to end their relationship. Her heart was breaking from this and she doesn't know what more to do; being a pacificist she couldn't fight him and even if she tried he would easily overpower her. Plus she really, REALLY can't. Tikal loved him too much to even slap him.
But if he has made his choice… she will honor it. It will hurt her immensely in the long run but if Knuckles finds happiness afterwards, then she will also be happy.
Yet will have a broken heart knowing he is no longer with her. Heck he may throw her off Angel Island as well.
The echidna princess continued to cry accepting that fate. 'It is okay… if Knuckie wants to follow this new path… then… it is fine…' she thought accepting defeat, the surroundings continuing to tremble yet she didn't care anymore.
Knuckles continued to stare her down angrily. 'Why isn't she leaving yet?! Fine I'll do this myself!' he thought starting to walk towards her sitting form. Electricity flowed around his body with sparks letting off in random directions, the male echidna approaching the female echidna with each crunching step in the snow.
Standing inches away from her he raised his arm and began to reach for her.
'All those times. All those memories… All for nothing!' Knuckles mentally shouted.
…
'W-Well, even though w-we haven't known each other for long… I-I l-lo… I LOVE YOU!' a feminine voice said.
A gasp came out of Knuckles as he pulled back. His vision suddenly flashed a bright white and a second later revealed a silhouette.
"W-What the-?! What is this?!" Knuckles said angrily.
…
The silhouette revealed itself after a few seconds. Knuckles' eyes widened further.
Tikal was shown with a bright smile and the gentlest of expressions.
'I have something to protect and cherish way more important than the Master Emerald…'
Knuckles was speechless. 'I… I said that. I remember…'
Looking down at his hands then back up at the image of Tikal, his anger began receding with his judgement returning. "I…I made a huge mistake. I… I didn't let her explain."
Suddenly the image and bright light disappeared and within seconds he was back to where he was. His gaze caught sight of Tikal still sitting on the snow with her head down. Not only that but his chaos energy was dissipating as well, his mind now in focus.
The image appeared once again in his head of her amazing smile and cheerful eyes, leaving to which her depressed form was shown after. It made Knuckles choke out a sob… he felt like a complete douchebag.
I can't believe… I can't believe I did that to the kindest, sweetest, and most beautiful girl I've ever fallen in love with. I was so stupid to ignore the fact that she would never lie… as I would never lie to her. I crushed her heart with my words and assumed she found another… I should've listened… I… I-I…'
"T-Tikie…"
Tikal looked up quickly letting a gasp and seeing Knuckles desperately trying to keep himself together, but tears were already flowing down. "Tikie…"
"K-Knuckie…" Tikal also stuttered looking up at him.
…
Faster than Sonic's signature speed the two embraced one another tightly letting out loud wails.
"I'M SORRY TIKIE!"
"NO PLEASE KNUCKIE IT IS OKAY!"
The emerald guardian clutched at her and was very scared of letting go. So many memories went through his head of all the amazing times he had with the echidna princess, not one of them giving Knuckles a hard time. Her gorgeous smile and melodic laughs were the world to him and everything they done together was a miracle that Knuckles got to experience.
She is the reason he no longer has to worry about being the last of his kind. She is the reason he gets to see life in a new light and no longer has to sulk every day. She is the reason that he moved forward to become stronger and think more efficiently. She is the reason he became more open and outgoing with others. Not only that… she is the reason he found the Master Emerald second to what was important to his life.
Tikal was his everything. His whole life.
She has suffered so much in her time and if anything it was worse compared to his terrible solitude when he was born. The fact that she had a wonderful and serene personality even during a time of war and anguish meant that Tikal was very strong mentally. She would see the positivity in the world even if it were to have more chaos that overpowers it. She would see the good in everyone even if some of them had bad intentions. She would help and support even if the people don't ask for it.
Most importantly, she would always be honest and faithful. Something that Knuckles ignored and gave him a solid blow in return.
"I-I'm so sorry Tikie. My love…" Knuckles dug his face into her shoulder continuing to cry. Tikal heard his words and tried to soothe him with her backrubs but even she was having a hard time stopping her own sobs. "S-Shh… i-it i-is okay m-my love. I-It i-is okay."
The two echidnas cried and cried comforting each other. Their hearts slowly began to heal from the moment of torment they experienced and held each other tighter just in case. The moon glowed brighter from above illuminating the scenery more. Snowflakes fell at a lighter pace and with how they reflected the light from the moon, the snowflakes gave off a twinkle effect around the echidnas. The clouds slowly dispersed overhead to reveal the night sky with several stars giving the same effect as well, glowing in different shapes and sizes. The air was still cold and frigid, but the two echidnas were well protected from it as their body heat exchanged to one another and kept them warm.
No longer were they being hit by cold words. No longer were they pulled into the realm of deception.
They were now in a warm embrace.
Sniffs, hiccups and bits of coughing were let out between them with slight shaking coming off the two. Knuckles thought it was a good time and slowly, VERY slowly pulled away a bit to see Tikal once again. Her ocean-colored eyes were red from crying and she had a slight smile on her face. It tore his core to see that he caused this and raised his hands to cup her face.
"I-I did this… I-I can't believe-."
"Shhhh…" Tikal raised a finger slowly to silence him. The smaller of the two nuzzled further into his hands with her smile widening, her gaze never leaving his. "It is okay my Knuckie. It is okay."
Knuckles whimpered knowing he said harsh words and gave the echidna princess a deathful glare. "I-I got angry at you… you who has a very pure heart… who would never lie. I should have listened to you." Knuckles slowly slid his hands of Tikal's face and bowed deeply. "I am truly sorry Tikie. If you don't want to go o-."
Soft hands cupped his own face and he felt himself move upward. Knuckles gasped softly meeting Tikal's eyes again, except her expression was now like how he's seen in his head. Gorgeous smile and cheerful eyes.
"I will never, EVER break my love for you. You have done so much to make me happy in this new time and repel my awful past. I am so very grateful for that and you have shown me so many things that I got to experience and have yet to experience. I want to do all that with you in it and by my side, not with anyone else nor alone. I will never leave you my love. Never, ever." Tikal explained.
Knuckles was in awe at this. She truly was incredible… and very stubborn. He was still concerned however. "B-But I broke-."
"You did not break any promises my Knuckie." Tikal said rubbing his cheeks with her thumbs, the same smile on her face. "I will never be angry at you even for a mistake such as this. My grandmother taught me to always be true to yourself and find inner peace, even if it takes time."
The emerald guardian smiled at that, Tikal's own widening further seeing him brighten up. "There's my Knuckie. The one I love and will continue to love."
Knuckles raised his hands again to her face. "And there's my Tikie. The one I will love and will love forever and more."
Slowly did they start leaning in closing their eyes, feeling their breaths hit each other's muzzles until their lips met. Surging fireworks exploded inside their minds as the two held each other for dear life once again. Tears ran down their faces as their love rekindled itself once again and their bond healed back to its former glory. Their lips fit so perfectly and moved fluidly with each other, their tongues finding each other and caressing. Tikal leaned further into the kiss with Knuckles lowering his hands to the small of her back and bringing her in. The female echidna squeaked in their exchange upon feeling Knuckles lift her up and settling the echidna princess into his lap, feeling more comfortable. She continued to clutch his face not wanting to separate from him with the latter keeping his arms around her to keep his lover warm. It was working in which their body heat rose to where they no longer shivered from the cold. The moonlight reflected off them nicely as their passionate exchanged continued, their love ablaze in the snowy Christmas Eve night.
Air eventually was needed and the two slowly separated opening their eyes.
"Tikie…" "Knuckie…" they both said breathlessly. Their faces were flushed red from the exchange yet they smiled widely while adding a small laugh at the end.
"So um… are we okay now?" Knuckles asked. Tikal nodded cheerfully. "Yes Knuckie, we are good."
"Okay, so if you want to tell me what happened you can. I won't be an idiot this time and will hear everything you want to say." Knuckles said. The echidna princess pouted a bit. "My love, you are not an idiot."
The emerald guardian chuckled scratching his head. "Hehe sorry, I mean I guess you can say I didn't get all the info. So if you want you can tell me, I will believe everything you say since you are the purest and most beautiful angel I've ever seen."
Tikal turned further red hiding her face in her quills. Knuckles' heart fluttered from the action.
"T-Thank y-you Knuckie, I am t-truly happy by your words. And okay, so this is what occurred…"
The female echidna explained everything to Knuckles and he listened down to the last detail. At the end he groaned at how dumb he was for not being more confident and stepping in to break the conversation while at the same time felt guilty for not coming back early to pick her up for the party.
"Man I should've gotten back to Angel Island quicker, then you didn't have to go with Tails…" Knuckles muttered.
"It is quite alright my love, Amy did need some assistance and I was glad to help." Tikal answered back. Knuckles smiled and kissed her forehead. "You're too good-hearted Tikie. I love you for that."
Tikal giggled and pecked his cheek. "And I will love you for not giving up on us."
Knuckles then looked down at her outfit and blushed. "Y-You look nice Tikie. At the party you looked so incredible that I was speechless."
The smaller echidna blushed further hiding her face into his chest. "K-Knuckie~! Please that is enough haha~!" she laughed. Knuckles also laughed and tickled her side with a finger letting out some more giggling from the echidna princess. Tikal pulled away a bit and also looked at his outfit. "And you look adorable Knuckie." she responded while raising her hands to adjust his scarf. "Very, very cute."
The emerald guardian steamed and averted his eyes. "I still look tough right?"
Tikal giggled some more. "Yes my Knuckie you are still tough."
The two echidnas looked at each other again with love and care as they got in for another kiss that lasted three minutes, eventually pulling away afterwards.
'Please have something… I want it to be from the heart.'
Knuckles' eyes widened at the thought. "Oh I almost forgot!" he said loudly digging into his pocket. He pulled out the same gift and presented it to her. "I-I didn't get a chance to give this to you since… well you know but I hope you like it. It's why I've been gone for such a long time and hope it makes up for it."
Tikal was very surprised and her eyes sparkled, also letting out a gasp as she dug into her own pocket and pulled out the gift she also had. "I also have something for you. I also hope you will like it as well."
Nervously exchanging the presents they eyed it with curiosity and giddiness.
"Knuckie you may go first. I do not mind." Tikal asked him. Knuckles was about to object wanting her to go first but something tells him to hold it off, so he did. His hands carefully undid the bow and unwrapped the paper to which his violet orbs gazed at a white box. The male echidna opened the lid and was shocked at what was inside.
A bracelet made of blue howlite with golden accents in between them and a golden plate attached to one side of it. It shined brightly in the moonlight and from how great it reflected, the bracelet was very pristine and in excellent condition.
"W-Woah… where did you find this...?" Knuckles asked grabbing the bracelet with his fingers.
"I have found it in the ruins of the tribe and cleansed it to its original look. It is something very close to me as well, look at the plate of the bracelet my love." Tikal said. Knuckles did as told and looked at what was on it.
An emerald symbol shown on the front.
"Tikal… is this-."
"Yes, this bracelet belonged to one of the guardians alongside Chaos when I was little. It belonged to my grandmother, and she said that the stone calms the body and releases stress from anger and pain." Tikal looked at Knuckles with some tears in her eyes, but she was grinning. "I hope it serves you well in relinquishing any pain that you may suffer during your battles against all evil and protecting the emeralds, along with calming you when you are feeling unwell."
Knuckles was speechless and could only nod, looking back at the bracelet as he slowly slid it onto his wrist.
A perfect fit.
"This is…" Knuckles looked back at Tikal and brought her close for a kiss, the echidna princess moving her hands around his neck and bringing him close once again. They separated after a few seconds with the emerald guardian crying a bit. "I love it and I will treasure it just as much as I treasure you my love, for your grandmother. Thank you."
Tikal squealed happily. "Thank you Knuckie!"
Knuckles chuckled then looked at his gift to her. "Now it's your turn my love."
The smaller echidna nodded again and looked at it with glee. Small hands did the same process just like the larger echidna and instead of a white box it was a black one. Apparently for today's society that can only mean one thing, but luckily Tikal does not know the meaning behind it yet.
Opening the box, her eyes widened and she let out a long gasp.
A bright silver ring was presented with ancient symbols written on the surface but what stuck out the most were the set of seven small emeralds going around the ring with a large green one in the middle of it. Each of the small emeralds different in color yet they mimicked the ones back on Angel Island. Could this mean…
"KNUCKIE~!"
"ACK!"
Knuckles felt the strong tackle of Tikal and he was pounced onto the snow while feeling the barrage of kisses coming at his face and lips. The emerald guardian was not prepared for this as the smaller echidna struggled to contain her excitement, yet when she found his lips and kept herself there did Knuckles wrap his arms around her and felt the raw passion poured out of her beyond the limit.
Knuckles was very happy that she loved the gift, but he didn't know why she was this happy. If anything it is only a ring in his mind.
The sound of a final smooch was let out as Tikal bounced onto his lap cheerfully. "KNUCKIE I CANNOT BELIEVE YOU GAVE ME THIS!"
"Wha-Wha? You actually like it?" Knuckles questioned.
"Like it? I LOVE IT!" Tikal grabbed the box again and looked at it with passion and tears.
"Knuckie…this was my grandmother's ring!"
…
'Holy cow. I did not know that.' Knuckles thought in surprise. "I didn't even know that was hers?!"
"It is! Oh come here you~!" Tikal grabbed him again and kissed the daylights out of him, the latter not complaining and enjoying the intense warmth and softness of her lips and body against his. Releasing once again she cried a bit and took the ring from the box. "I-It looks j-just like how she had it back then…"
Knuckles smiled and raising his hand he took the ring of her grasp confusing Tikal. "Knuckie?"
Not saying anything the emerald guardian simply grabbed Tikal's left hand. Gasping softly she simply him do his thing, yet the echidna princess knew what this meant and her emotions were ready to burst. If anything Amy has told her of this and Tikal herself has seen in many romance shows.
"Tikal, ever since I first laid my eyes on you during those visions I saw an echidna that faced a terrible past and died a terrible way for the good of the world. Seeing you go against those that only know war is the bravest thing I have ever seen from you and I still see you as someone brave and strong. Before the Master Emerald resurrected you I have only known loneliness and pain throughout my life for being the last of my kind. Sure I have made friends like Sonic and Tails later on and made many more afterwards… but deep down, I still had that weight burdened on my shoulders knowing that when I pass the echidnas will be no more. When the Master Emerald brought you back to life they didn't bring just that; they brought a beautiful angel once again upon this world and in a different time. She received a second chance for a new beginning without bloodshed and war, now only experiencing happiness and joy wherever she goes. I am glad to have met this angel and knowing even better… that I fell in love with her." Knuckles said all this with a confident smile. Tikal was shaking with joy, her mouth trembling and the waterworks running down her cheeks as the male echidna lifted her ring finger.
"We had so many fun times and made so many fun memories. She shines like the sun and is the purest out of everyone. She brings joy to everyone and is one to never use violence on anyone. We talked, we laughed, we ate, we bathed hehe, we slept. We did all that together… and we will continue to do so forever and more." Knuckles slowly slid the ring onto her finger. "And now starting today, our bond will go a step higher."
Just like the bracelet on him, the ring was perfect fit on her.
Tikal's expression was beyond happy. She was shaking hard raising her hand to see the ring. Her grandmother's ring.
Knuckles gifted it to her.
And he used it to bring their love to new heights.
She was very patient and would have waited longer.
But Knuckles chose the right time.
And Tikal knew what to say next.
"So Tikal… my Tikie… my love, will you-."
"Yes." Tikal returned his gaze and nodded so much. "Yes. A thousand times, a million times, a zillion zillion times YES!"
Knuckles also teared up and grinned the largest he's ever done. Tikal laughed and the two got close for another strong kiss.
Moving forward their love will be stronger. Moving forward will they know do things with each other with more importance. Moving forward they will stick to each other for longer and far stronger.
Moving forward… they will be one step closer to reaching what they most desired.
Separating once again they looked at each other lovingly with Tikal raising her hand to look at the ring which glowed beautifully under the moonlight. "It looks amazing Knuckie. Thank you."
"It looks amazing, just as much as you do Tikie." Knuckie said nuzzling her head. Tikal returned the affection and sighed blissfully. "I cannot believe it Knuckie. So this means that we are now… you know…"
Knuckles chuckled. "Well in terms of how culture works, this basically means that we are now engaged. If anything it is closer regardless hehe."
Tikal squealed in joy. "I love it Knuckie. I love it that you are now my fiancé."
"And I love it that you are now my fiancée." Knuckles responded.
The two laughed. "Okay that was terrible hehe." the larger echidna said.
Tikal smiled and kissed him again, another makeout ready to start.
BOOM!
The two jumped at a loud explosion with Tikal curling up into Knuckles with the latter looking around ready to defend his lover.
BOOM!
Tikal cuddled further into him but Knuckles noticed a bright flash up in the sky, his violet eyes looking up to see the cause.
Several fireworks were set off in the distance near Station Square with the night sky illuminated by the bright multicolor given off. All shapes and sizes were shown and lit up the darkness around the area.
"Tikie look!" Knuckles patted Tikal's shoulder to which the smaller echidna obliged and looked as well. She gasped at the fireworks.
"Oh my goodness! They look marvelous!" Tikal cried in joy as the two stood up with the emerald guardian helping the echidna princess. With Tikal holding Knuckles' arm they walked near the edge of the cliff and admired the fireworks show from where they stood.
"It's good that we have a spot to ourselves to see all this… if anything this spot-."
"Was where you first explained to me how the modern world is like." Tikal finished for Knuckles. She turned to him and smiled. "The modern world continues to look brighter and brighter and today is the perfect way to learn more about what the future will have for us."
"Yeah and we will go into this future… together." Knuckles finished up for her. Tikal nodded and the two looked at each other.
Violet eyes meeting blue eyes.
Guardian and princess.
Present and past.
"Merry Christmas Knuckie/Tikie." they said together, closing in for another passionate kiss while the fireworks continued in the background.
A misunderstanding almost broke them apart but in the end, their love prevailed and has grown stronger than it has before. Now that they moved into a new step in their relationship, whatever new memories they make will now have more meaning and more importance to the two. If anything, Knuckles will continue to protect and cherish Tikal while Tikal will continue to tend and care for Knuckles, the two supporting each other overall. Whatever life throws at them they will overcome the obstacles together and when the final step of their relationship arrives, they will continue to go beyond that.
Time has kept them apart but with the help of the Master Emerald, time will forge a great future for both Knuckles and Tikal.
And once the fireworks has ended, Knuckles and Tikal chaos-controlled back to Angel Island and slept together with newfound joy… but not before engaging in passionate mating hehe.
…
…
"Ho ho ho!" the voice of a certain large man was heard above the sky riding a sleight with several reindeer upfront. The figure of Santa revealed with a jolly grin as he looked at his list and scratched off two certain names.
"It's a good thing my boy Knuckles stopped by the pawn shop today, especially when I found that ring at an unknown part of Angel Island when I curiously explored it last Christmas ho ho. May you and Tikal be blessed with the wonderful spirit, that you enjoy the presents under your tree and you both receive a good night. Ho ho ho! MERRY CHRISTMAS!"
Santa then disappeared into the sky with a twinkle.
…
…
…
A ghostly apparition appeared above the skies of Angel Island, eyes looking towards the Emerald Altar and the small dome-shaped house near it.
The apparition was of a female echidna. An elderly one as well.
"Congratulations my child for your new engagement. I hope to see you and this young fellow create a future for each other while you bear my gifts. May your new beginning be bright and that someday you both start a new tribe. One that is humble and generous in all ways just like you Tikal and one that is courageous and strong, just like you Knuckles. Farewell and Merry Christmas."
The apparition disappeared into thin air leaving those last words.
Fin.
And that is it!
Oh man looks like their relationship was almost done for but if anything they got it sorted out! Well aside from Knuckles getting angry but even then he can't stay angry for someone so pure and sweet like Tikal. Heck I would beat myself up badly if I were to lash out against someone like that if anything, but regardless the two got a happy ending!
Now to point out another thing: some stories will be loosely connected to one another and while this one does show their relationship taken to the next level, that doesn't mean that it may or may not carry over to the next set of stories. Each will be a different take on things but will either go with being together before or during engagement. You can see it as basically how the Sonic main timeline is in which things are all over the place and don't make any sense lol, but unlike the franchise this is all headcanon on my part so anything goes!
Anyway hope you enjoyed the read and HAVE AN AWESOME MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE/DAY! Til next time! ouo/