(No, but, I'm not sure how he carried the sword around prior to Forces. So I'll give it the 'infinite back pocket' treatment.)

Zero promptly arrived at Chemical Plant, long tail flicking impatiently.

Knuckles sighed and sat down. "...."

(Where did we left off? I think a time skip happened right?)

Nox and her group appeared out of the shadows. Ernesh glared at Zero.
"Nice to see you again Zero or whatever you're calling yourself." Nox said.

"I'm sorry for evesdropping but I heard what you said when..." Just as Ajal was about to finish a bird attacked him.
I can handle this pozer gaurdian if you want. The bird squawked.
Ajal was was trying to defend himself against the eagle when a couple of falcons joined in.
"Oh come on what did I do to you two?" Ajal asked.
You landed on me and my nest the second time you jumped. The first falcon tried to divebomb him.
The first time you did whatever you did, you hit the tree I was in. The other falcon said.

Knuckles rolled his eyes and let out a shrill whistle. "HEY! Back off, okay?"

"Hey." Zero replied with a low growl, one ear twitching. "Surprised you actually showed. So tell me now, what do you want with an outcast?"

The eagle backed off. Why guardian he is a killer and a thief?
Thank you Knuckles for whatever you just did. Ajal said taking count the talon marks.
The falcons agreed with the eagle.

Not my idea it was Hagins. Nox growled back.
We want your help with a little problem we have involving Sonic. We were hoping you could take him out if you know what I mean. Hagin spoke his voice ice cold. Or ask Lady Void yourself.

"He hasn't caused and permanant damage, fellas." Knuckles informed the birds. "And he hasn't killed anyone outside of what was needed for dietary reasons."