The Dark Legion prepares to mobilize for their attack on Echidnaopolis when Enerjak appears before them. Kragok informs him that they plan to cross the Sandopolis desert at night, but Enerjak uses his powers to create a golden arch that leads directly to Echidnaopolis. Kragok asks what has become of Knuckles and Enerjak answers that Knuckles is nothing more than a memory. Julie-Su, grimacing at the news, is ordered to pilot their saucer as they fly over the golden arch, leaving Mighty, Espio and Vector tied up under the blazing sun.