Chapter Text
Knuckles wasn't the type to get sentimental. Guardian of the Master Emerald, protector of Angel Island, tough as stone — that's who he was. Or at least, that’s what everyone thought.
Because behind closed doors, especially now, things were a little different.
It had started with a strange pulsing glow from the emerald weeks ago. A hum of energy, a strange dream, and then... a flutter in his belly. At first, he’d dismissed it. But soon, the truth became impossible to ignore.
Now here he stood, alone beneath the stars, one hand resting protectively over the gentle swell of his stomach. It wasn't huge yet, but it was growing. Something soft and round, warm under his fingers.
He muttered to himself, voice gruff. “Alright, you better not kick too hard while I’m meditating. Got a reputation to uphold, y’know.” But there was a flicker of a smile on his face. His thumb rubbed a slow circle just below his navel.
It had become a ritual, these secret nighttime visits to the emerald’s chamber. He’d kneel, say his guardian’s oath, then quietly lean back against the base of the gem — cradling his bump with both arms, almost like he was hugging someone invisible.
Sometimes, he’d whisper.
“You’re safe here. I know it’s kinda cold, and the wind’s rough up here sometimes... but I’m strong. And I’ll make sure you’re strong, too.”
A little kick nudged his hand. He blinked, startled, then chuckled, low and soft.
“Tch. You’ve got an attitude already. Figures.”
Knuckles rarely smiled around others. But here, in the soft green light of the Master Emerald, with the future tucked gently beneath his palm, his smile came easily. He wasn't just guarding a sacred gem anymore.
He was guarding a little heartbeat. A new beginning.
And for that, he’d fight even harder than before.