I was encouraged to continue this story, so I have added a new chapter to it. This is from Locke's POV. A thanks goes out to Shockhorror for helping me with this chapter. Spoilers for 182 present.

Disclaimer: Don't own, but enjoy writing about.

Discovery of Darkness

With the change of Knuckles into Enerjak, the pain was intense. In spite of my search for my ancestors, I returned home, for this seemed more important. Stepping through the warp ring back onto Angel Island, I decided to check the Chaos Chamber first. It was empty, Finitevus nowhere to be seen, and dark energy surrounded the Master Emerald. Attempting to access the Emerald's power, I could make no connection.

This felt odd to me, and wanting an explanation I sought out the Legionnaires, who were helping Finitevus watch the Emerald. My search for the Legionnaires led me to a small clearing, where primitive huts made of sticks and stones stood - the homes of what was left of my people, but the air was silent and empty. My people were nowhere to be found. At first, I thought the Dingoes had captured them, but upon looking around, I saw no signs of weapon fire or violent attack. Odd feelings started to become stronger causing me to leave quickly to resume my search for the Legionnaires.

Soon I began to realize the Dingoes hadn't appeared. Having captured me once before, they would certainly take any opportunity to do so again, yet none attacked. I took a detour to see what was happening in their city. Arriving at the location, I saw only barren ground. The odd feelings changed into concern.

This concern deepened upon my discovery of the few remaining Legionnaires, and seeing they no longer had bionics. Asking what happened, I learned how Finitevus had used his power to corrupt the Emerald and my son, and concern changed to anger. Anger at Finitevus, who had played me for a fool and anger at myself for never questioning his motives. But as quick the anger rose, so did the realization I needed to take action.

Forcing my anger down, I asked where the others were, and learned they were on Albion. I went there by way of the warp ring, going straight to Remington. Meeting with him, I was shown a recording made by the head of Albion's council, telling of Finitevus' history and the role he played in its destruction. I thanked Remington, telling him that it had indeed given me some answers. Asking if he and the others would be okay on Albion and given assurance they would be, I left him in charge, returning to the Island.

One thing is clear: I will not allow Finitevus to continue his plans, whatever they may be, although I suspect he will have nothing less than utter destruction of the world. Right now he is two steps ahead of me. Knowing now who he is and what he is capable of, I will do whatever it takes to stop him, even killing Knuckles. This must be stopped, whatever the cost.

Why weren't we able/to see the signs that we missed/and try and turn the tables?/Now the story's played out like this/Just like a paperback novel/Let's rewrite an ending that fits/instead of a Hollywood horror.

Nickelback – "Someday"

A/N: Not as good as last, but hope it is good enough. Original post - December 16, 2007. Edited and Reposted - December 21.