Professor Gerald's granddaughter, Maria Robotnik, was Shadow's companion and best friend. The two met aboard the Space Colony ARK and formed a close bond, becoming inseparable. According to Gerald's journal, Maria was Shadow's guide in the world and he was her trusted friend. He was completely devoted to her, helping her with her condition and being her protector. Shadow cared deeply about Maria's well-being and safety: once, when she nearly passed out from overexertion, he caught her before she hit the ground and then reminded her not to get too excited so as not to worsen her condition.
Maria was the reason for Shadow's existence and his sole purpose in life was to cure her. When he discovered that he could not cure her illness, Shadow became deeply saddened and distressed, as he did not want to lose her. As a result, began to question the purpose of his birth. However, Maria never blamed him for this and was always by his side to comfort and encourage him. Maria was a guiding force in Shadow's life, doing her best to erase any doubts he had about the purpose of his existence. Even after discovering that Shadow was created with Black Doom's DNA, Maria never stopped loving him, believing that his actions are what define him. Maria was the most important person in Shadow's life, mainly for her support when he had doubts. Shadow trusted Maria enough to share his doubts and inner conflicts with her, mainly about the purpose of his existence. Maria, in turn, always comforted and reassured Shadow when he doubted himself.
