You square your shoulders as you face Rouge directly. "Rouge, listen," you say firmly, "If you want a real shot at Knuckles, you have to treat him with more respect. Same species thing aside, the reason he seems to lean towards Shade is because she respects him regardless. You treat him like a plaything and expect him to fall into line.
"I get it," you continue, "He has flaws. No one knows that better than me. But there's more to Knuckles than a muscle-head buffoon. He deserves more than to be anybody's punching bag."
Rouge glares at you. "Some big talk from someone who treats him just as badly," she grumbles.
Looking back, you realize you tease Knuckles and make a fool out of him just as much as Rouge. Maybe even more so. You give a low sigh. "You're right… Maybe I should change that." You glance up at the bat, "And I recommend you do the same."
Rouge scoffs and stands up from her seat. "Lame advice, hedgehog," she grunts as she walks off. But she stops halfway and looks back at you. "But… I'll keep it in mind regardless."
To talk to Amy next, go to Chapter 26
If you're ready to continue the story, go to Chapter 32