Sorry that it's been so long and that this one is so short. I'll try to put up chapter 7 by Sunday, at the latest. Now, on to the beginning of the end!!! (the start of the climax for the uninitiated)

Chapter 6: Hostage

Knuckles the Echidna relaxed against the Master Emerald. He had been training intensely for the last two hours and his breathing came in low gasps. Whew… that was exhausting, but I must keep training. The Master Emerald needs a guardian who adapt to any situation. I've been caught off guard way too many times.

A figure darted just out of Knuckles' range of vision. Knuckles sprang to his feet. "Who are you? Come out, I know you're there!"

The figure ran past the altar again. "I'm not in the mood for this…" Knuckles growled. "Come out and state your intentions, whoever you are!"

Rowan materialized from the shadows. Knuckles stepped backwards a pace. "Hey… wait a minute! I don't know you. Who are you? What do you want?"

"My name is Rowan. And I desire your submission, Guardian of the Master Emerald." The light red hedgehog replied.

Rowan whirled and threw a dart at Knuckles, which stuck in his neck. "Aaagh…" Knuckles sank to his knees, and began to keel over.

As his vision began to swirl, he noticed Rowan standing over him. "W…Why?" he croaked. "You're a means to an end," Rowan said coldly.

Unable to think anymore, Knuckles' head rolled back and he passed out.

xxx

Tails reached for the phone and called Knuckles' number. I have the evidence to show this girl that the Darkraisers aren't what they seem. But I'll need some backup if I want to take her on.

The dial tone rang in his ear. "Arrgh! Of all the times I call, it just has to be when he's finally away from the Master Emerald!" Tails shouted in frustration.

Just then, Tails heard a voice on the other end of the line.

"If anyone wants to see the Guardian of the Master Emerald alive again, have Shadow the Hedgehog meet me on the Master Emerald Altar at sunset."

The line went dead.

Tails felt a chill run down his spine. The voice was unmistakably that of the assassin.

Tails slammed down the phone and ran toward the Tornado 3. I've got to tell Shadow immediately! From the sound of it, Knuckles is now in danger!

Oooh...Suspense, suspense..NEXT TIME: Shadow, Tails, and Rowan prepare for the final battle! This time, Rowan will either kill Shadow or die trying!