"Dear journal,

Hey, it's the Zack-man again. I know I haven't really been keeping you up to date, but I promise that's gonna change. It's just that with midterms and being a ranger, I've been kept busy for the most part, but since we got back our career aptitude tests a couple weeks ago, all my free time has been dedicated to goodwill missions for… get this, the Unite Nations! That's awesome, right? Jason, Trini and I have been doing great things like holding canned food drives for third world countries and building relations between the United States and some of those countries through sponsorship programs.

I love it all, don't get me wrong, and I love spending time with my bro Jason and my home girl Trini, who lately I've been seeing less and less of, but it's really making the midterms part a heck of a lot harder.

It also doesn't help that my science partner, Tommy, has been acting all mopey since he realized his powers are going kaput. He's basically been blowing me off to spend time with Kim."

(As Zack writes from his bedroom, Kim and Tommy spend some time in her bedroom cuddling one another.)

Tommy: (sighs) I just can't believe I'm not gonna be able to enjoy spending time with you like this anymore.

Kimberly: Sweetie, you're losing your powers, not dying.

Tommy: I know, but still… and I'm sure the guys will still hang with me and all, but I just won't really feel like part of the gang anymore.

Kimberly: Just try not to think about it so much. Try to think positive thoughts. (Gasps) Like for instance, can you believe that by tomorrow, it'll be a year since we met?

Tommy: Yeah! Actually it seems like just yesterday I tried to kill you.

Kimberly: Stockholm can eat his heart out.

Tommy: Yeah, wait… who's Stockholm? Is that another guy?

Kimberly: No Tommy. Look, never mind that. I just want to do something special for our anniversary.

(Tommy reaches into his pants pocket to pull out two small tickets to Kim's bemusement.)

Tommy: I got you covered. I've got two concert tickets; front row!

(Kim gasps delightedly while reading the tickets in front of her.)

Kimberly: Oh my God, Tommy you're the best boyfriend ever. And how did you know I love Pink? Oh you know me and my tastes so well. I had no idea her last name was Floyd though.

Tommy: Uhh… well, yeah. I just thought it'd get our mind off things.

Kimberly: Aw, thank you. This just makes me feel totally awful though for not getting you anything. It's just that, you know, with my mom still struggling and all…

Tommy: Kim, I don't care if you get me anything or not, it's be nice just to spend time with you.

Kimberly: Even after a whole year you're still not sick of me? I guess I'll just have to try harder.

Tommy: (laughs) Maybe. What would you have gotten me if you had the chance though?

(Kim thinks for a bit while staring blankly at the tickets in her hand.)

Kimberly: …I don't know. I mean I might still get you something. But I want it to be something special. Something you and I can both share and enjoy.

(An idea suddenly pops into her head. She turns her head to stare longingly into her boyfriend's eyes.)

Kimberly: Something I've never given you before. But something I've been thinking about for a long, long time.

Tommy: (Laughs nervously) Oh… A-are you like, thinking what I'm thinking?

Kimberly: I am.

(Kim finally breaks her glance to get up out of bed and rush to her dresser. She pulls open a drawer and excitedly sifts through it before finding what she's looking for.)

Tommy: Kim, I've got to be honest… I have been looking forward to this moment for a long time.

Kimberly: Me too! I've been wanting to do this with you forever.

Tommy: What are you looking for? Oh I see, you wanna be smart about this, I'm totally with you.

(She grabs what she needs and turns around, still beaming.)

Kimberly: Definitely, that's why I'm gonna apply foundation before I add on blush!

Tommy: Oh… so… you're gonna give me a makeover?

Kimberly: Yeah.

Tommy: Okay…

Kimberly: Why is your shirt off?

"Still, if anyone's gonna cheer Tommy up its Kim; those two are perfect for each other. Nothing like the holy abomination that is Trini and Robbie. Those two shouldn't be in the same galaxy together much less in a relationship. Don't get me wrong, Robbie's a cool dude and all, but to be honest, she can do better."

(Meanwhile in an outdoors restaurant somewhere near school, Robbie and Trini appear to be enjoying breakfast together.)

"I actually might be a little harsh on Robbie. I like him, and I can see he's trying to better himself, so I can appreciate that. He's even got a part time job now in a local coffee shop so he can take her out more. He's a real working stiff now."

Robbie: I'm quitting my job.

Trini: Why? It can't be that bad, Robbie.

Robbie: I'm telling you, it's terrible. The "veteran" employees treat me like garbage, as if I offend them for being new. I constantly go home smelling like spoiled milk and the customers are rude and unappreciative of the actual work that I do.

Trini: Aren't you just pushing buttons though?

Robbie: A customer told me that last night, and I made sure I pushed the decaf button just for her.

Trini: I see. Well, just give it a chance, it'll get better.

Robbie: I don't know. One week in and my throat actually hurts from groaning so much.

(Robbie notices that Trini blankly staring away, perhaps not as interested in his self-indulgence as she usually is. This raises an internal alarm in him.)

Robbie: Trini, is something wrong?

Trini: Huh? No, nothing, I'm just tired. I've been trying to cram in midterm work while doing my global outreach work for the Swiss program. Not to mention being a ranger… I got no sleep last night.

Robbie: You didn't have breakfast with me if you didn't want to.

Trini: But you wanted to see me, and I know I've been a bit scarce lately.

Robbie: Thanks, but you really didn't need to martyr yourself. I want you rested for your birthday tomorrow, anyway.

Trini: Oh! That's right, my birthday is tomorrow. Man, I've got so much stuff to do, I won't even enjoy it.

Robbie: Trini, you gotta give yourself a break, you're killing yourself here.

Trini: I know, but this isn't something I can just walk away from. This is something that I truly want to do, and I've got to seize this opportunity.

(Robbie lets out a frustrated sigh, as if he's already had this talk with her before and gotten nowhere.)

Robbie: Well, at least let me pay for breakfast. You did force yourself up for me, it's the least I could do.

Trini: Uhm…Robbie you don't need to pay for anything.

Robbie: I insist.

Trini: No, I mean we're not seated at a restaurant. You've just placed a picnic table next to the restaurant.

(The camera pans out from their faces to confirm that they're actually seated three feet away from the guard rail separating them from the restaurant.)

Robbie: I was wondering where the waitress went.

Trini: Come on, we'll just go. You can buy me a bagel along the way.

"Still, insult to God or not, they're still miles better than anything I've ever been able to muster up. And for what it's worth, she's still nuts about him and he still worships the ground she walks on. Kim thinks it's cause they don't have pretty girls in the ghetto."

(Meanwhile in Billy's garage, he and Marge hover over a backless computer while carefully re-wiring.)

"Still the ranger life can ruin any decent relationship. Kind of like how my other friend Billy's been inexplicably drifting away from his girlfriend who looks like one of the Sex and the City girls; and not the one that looks like a horse, the pretty one!"

Margie: I must say, excellent progress thus far. Now all that remains for us to leverage the multidisciplinary convergence so we may optimize the performance of this educational device.

"If only I could ever understand a word she says."

Billy: Mhm.

Marge: You must be as excited as I for the academic potential this may bring to the world?

Billy: (shrugs) …as long as we get an A.

Marge: "Get an A?" Those are preposterously low expectations for such a revolutionary new technology! Why with a few test runs we can reshape the industry with a brand new standard.

Billy: It's just a computer app Marge, we're not solving world hunger.

(The biting tone in Billy's reply raises an eyebrow from his girlfriend.)

Marge: …iiis everything alright down there?

Billy: Well on my end, I just need to fuse the audio-visual output and then give it a few…

Margie: No, I mean…

Billy: (sighs) I know what you mean Marge.

Margie: Have I done something to offend you? Please, just let me know, I can fix it.

(Billy stands up and takes his goggles off that that he may face her, eye to eye.)

Billy: No Margie, you've done absolutely nothing wrong. In fact, you've been wonderful. The past few months with you have been quite fulfilling. It's just me. I don't know, I guess lately I've just been swamped with school and stuff. My heads just in another place.

Marge: Look, you don't have to give me a roundabout answer. If things aren't working out between you and you'd like to end it, just say so.

Billy: I don't think that's something I want Margie. I mean I do still really like you.

Margie: And I really like you. You and I share so much in common, I'd hate to ruin that.

Billy: Look, let me make it up to you. Tomorrow we'll have a picnic in the park. We'll have it down by the pond. Like on our first date!

Marge: You mean the first date that you stood me up on?

Billy: Precisely!

(Wanting to believe that everything is alright, Marge cracks a smile and leans in for a hug.)

Margie: That'd be really sweet of you Billy. I knew you still cared!

(Billy breathes a sigh of relief. However just outside of Jason's place, the team leader steps out onto his front yard and into his own set of girl problems.)

"I guess Jason and I are the only smart ones out of the bunch that remain single. We've both got our global outreach stuff to worry about and on top of all that, he's the leader of the Power Rangers. We don't have time to deal with crazy women."

Sammy: Hai!

Jason: Oh my god! Sammy, holy cow… you just gave me a heart attack!

Sammy: Should I give you mouth to mouth?

Jason: What, no! What are you doing here? H-how long have you been standing outside my door?

Sammy: Since your mom stopped cleaning your windows.

Jason: What's that supposed to mean?

Sammy: It's a joke silly! Lighten up! I'm just here cause I'd thought you'd like some company. Maybe a new lab partner?

Jason: We don't take the same class Sammy, you're not even in the same grade as me.

Sammy: Well I figured you'd like some help anyway. I mean, since Katie dropped you as your partner and all.

Jason: Katie didn't drop me, some jerk took photos of her in the girl's locker room and threw them off the balcony. It totally humiliated her.

Sammy: Sure taught her a lesson.

Jason: What lesson? She had to transfer schools! (Shakes his head) Never mind. Look Sammy, we can hang later. Right now and probably till the end of midterms, I'm gonna be swamped. Thanks for volunteering though, but I'm running late to school.

Sammy: But I… I go to the same school as you.

(Jason ignores Sammy's last comment and leaves her in the dust. Now in school, Zack stands infront of his locker finishing his journal entry.)

"The juggling of what I've already got is hard as it is. And Zedd's new monsters sure ain't making it easier. I'm doing great in school, but I'm stressed almost constantly. A girl just isn't a priority righ-"

(Just then, Hannah M. Tannah, the pretty, rich girl and former friend of Kimberly passes by with her friends, drawing Zack away from his pen and whatever he's writing like paper clip to a magnet.)

Zack: Hannah! Hey! Wh-what's popping?

Hannah: I'm sorry, do I know you?

Zack: It's me, Zack! You and I have English together? I sit right behind you.

(Hannah still doesn't look to have a clue as to who he is.)

Zack: I'm the one who's been passing you those notes?

Hannah: Oh yeah! "Once you go Zack, you never go back." Is that you?

Zack: (laughs) Yeah, that's me!

Hannah: What did you say your name was again?

Zack: Um, I'm Zack. But hey listen, I just wanted to see if you wanted to grab a shake after class? No pressure, just to get to know you better.

Hannah: I'm not interested Zack, so you can stop. But I'll be sure to give you a call if I ever want to make my daddy furious.

Zack: Ouch. That was vaguely racist.

Hannah: Yeah. It was.

(Hannah pushes through Zack without saying much else. Deflated, Zack returns to his journal.)

"A girl just isn't a priority right now. My grades thanks me because of it; I'm doing better than pretty much all of my friends. That in itself has cause a few problems…"

Kimberly: Yoo-hoo, Zacky!

(Zack groans at the sight of Kim and Tommy approaching him from his peripherals.)

Tommy: Hey Zack-man! What going on bro? How's the project going?

Zack: (mutters) Wouldn't you like to know…?

Tommy: Huh?

Zack: It's going fine I guess. Though it'd be a lot better if I weren't the only one doing the work.

Tommy: Don't worry man, you can count on me. You know I've been going through some stuff lately.

Zack: Everyone's going through stuff Tommy, eventually that stops being an excuse. And please tell me why you have lipstick smeared all over your face?

Tommy: Oh… Kim and I were just kissing.

Zack: She's not even wearing the same color as you.

Tommy: Uh…

Zack: Look dude, I don't care. Most of the work for the project is done anyway. I guess you're off the hook.

Tommy: Zack, man I'm sorry. Look, if you want the truth, Kim's just been cheering me up lately. You know with my powers failing me, it's… it's really gotten in my head. It's made me lose focus on things, you understand?

(Unfortunately for Zack, he does understand.)

Zack: …fine. Whatever. Just present it in class and we're even.

Tommy: Thanks bro, I'll make it up to you some other way too. I swear on everything I love…

Zack: Take it easy. We wouldn't want your mascara to run, would we?

(Meanwhile on the moon, Lord Zedd appears to be listening in.)

Lord Zedd: So, poor Tommy's down in the dumps because he's losing his powers? Well, I can't help but feel partially responsible for that. No matter, I'll just have to make it up to him… I swear on everything I love that I shall finish him off for good, thus putting the green ranger out of his misery! It'll be a happy anniversary indeed, hahaha!

(The rest of the school day passes by without incident. After the final bell though, Zack locks himself in his room with a mirror and his journal in front of him.)

"I didn't mean to blow up on Tommy the way I did. I know he's going through a real rough time and I just got frustrated. But ever since Lord Zedd took Rita's spot, he's been gunning for him almost exclusively. None of his plans have actually succeeded in taking away his powers, but with each try he gets closer and closer. It's really bugging the guy, and all of us; mostly cause there's not a thing we can do about it.

Still, ranger stuff aside, he's got to handle his business, cause he's slipping pretty much everywhere else because of it. His grades have slipped and he's pretty much attached to Kim. I love the guy and all, but I'm not about to fail science for him. Anyway, Tommy telling me he'd make it up to me gave me a brilliant idea."

(Zack grabs a pair of scissors and begins inspecting the hair under his nose. He turns his head upwards, cuing a flashback to earlier this morning in English class. Zack is in his seat staring admirably at a girl entering the classroom.)

"See, I haven't been totally honest. There's this girl that I like. Her name is Hannah, Mo Tannah. She's the prettiest, most popular girl in the school and captain of the cheerleading squad."

(Hannah walks into class and in what appears to be Zack's own imagination, a mysterious breeze hits her; blowing her hair in an almost seductive fashion.)

"Flowing locks of golden hair, perfect skin and legs to die for. Normally she'd never go for a guy like me. I've tried endlessly to get her attention. But now I've got an ace up my sleeve: Kimberly. Kim used to be friends with Hannah and her crew back when she was an obnoxious mall rat too. Kim can't stand any of them anymore, but Hannah doesn't know that. If I can set up a double date between Hannah, me, Tommy and Kim. I should be solid. And like the old saying goes, once you go Zack, you never go ba-"

Zack: …OUCH!

(Zack cuts himself while trying to trim the nose under his hair while simultaneously writing He drops the pen and continues to gussy himself up. Less than an hour later, the rangers sans Zack and Trini meet up at the Juice Bar, Hannah and her crew are conspicuously present as well.)

Hannah: I don't know where my boyfriend got off trying to control me like that. So I just told him to get bent.

Hillary: Ugh, what a jerk!

Hannah: I know. Last time I date a married man.

(Hannah's presence doesn't seem to be a concern for the others though, who appear lost in their own problems.)

Jason: That sounds tough Billy, I hope you guys can sort things out.

Billy: Me too. She does have valid concerns after all. I have been subconsciously distancing myself from her. Perhaps this picnic will help reignite the spark.

Robbie: Hey just be happy your girl wants to spend time with you. Lately scheduling time with Trini is like scheduling a doctor's appointment which sort of just, kills the fun, you know? I feel like a hindrance to her these days.

Kimberly: I'm glad you've finally caught up to the rest of the world on that.

Jason: Well have you perhaps considered that maybe she's just overwhelmed? She's got a lot going on, things she isn't easily going to give up, and you kind of have to support her on that.

Robbie: Oh so I'm the expendable one?

Tommy: Try not to think of it that way man. She clearly still cares about you, though lord knows why.

Robbie: What is that supposed to mean?

Tommy: (hesitantly) I mean, you can be a bit self-centered sometimes.

Kimberly: Yeah, I mean, I know you want to spend time with her and all, and talk about all that's going on in your life, but maybe you should do something for her. Show her you're thinking about her instead of expecting her to think of you all the time.

Robbie: Whatever, as soon as this silly global outreach thing ends we should be able to spend more time together so I shouldn't worry just yet.

Jason: And if it doesn't end?

(Robbie didn't seem to consider that possibility before just now. However, before he could say anything Zack steps in wearing a fancy black vest over a purple button up and black pants.)

Jason: Whoa! Zack-man, looking sharp!

Tommy: (Laughs) Yeah, but I think the operas on the other side of town.

(Zack completely tunes his friends out and keeps his eyes locked on Hannah's table.)

Kimberly: Uh, Zack?

(Hannah and her friends turn to face him as if they are expecting him.)

Hannah: (sharply) It's about time you showed up.

Billy: Wait, what's going on?

Hannah: Do you have any idea how long you kept me waiting in this dump? The fat waiter spits when he talks, and he doesn't stop talking!

Lindsay: And when he brought us our drinks, I felt his boob on my shoulder.

Zack: I-I'm really sorry girls; I just got caught up in some stuff. I didn't know you'd bring your friends here.

(Zack's voice seems noticeably shaky, though it only makes Hannah more vicious.)

Hannah: Some "stuff?" Is that the best you can do?

Robbie: Is he making a pass at Hannah?

Kimberly: Ugh, this is gonna be ugly.

Jason: You guys we gotta do something. She's gonna tear him apart.

Robbie: You're right. I'll go get some popcorn.

Zack: Well, I was getting you these…

(Zack reaches around his back and pulls out a modestly sized bouquet of flowers. He extends his arm out for her to accept them, but she just looks at him looking completely dumbfounded. Before it gets too awkward he lays them down in front of her.)

Hannah: Oh…

(Her hesitation alone causes her friends, Lindsay and Hillary to start giggling; they can already sense how the brazen cheerleader is going to reply and so can Zack. He decides to dive right in before she can say a word.)

Zack: (Deep breath) Hannah, I think you're really cute and I would really love it if you'd let me take you out.

(His words come out forced and rehearsed, though bold nonetheless.)

Zack: If not, then I understand. We can still be friends, and I there won't be problems in class.

Hannah: We have class together?

Zack: English. I sit right behind you.

Hannah: Oh… right.

Zack: Kimberly, my friend Kimberly over there… (He turns to point at her) She knows you and said we'd probably connect really well.

Hannah: (raises eyebrow) She did?

Kimberly: (raises eyebrow) I did?

Zack: Yeah, she and Tommy would even like to double date with us tomorrow night so you two can catch up and all. So what do you say?

Tommy: What's he doing? I never agreed to any of this.

Hannah: Let me get this straight, you make me come all the way over here from the Upper East side to this god forsaken dump, wearing a suit that looks someone died in it and bringing me flowers that still has the Sears price tag on it and you expect me to just fall all over you?

Zack: If you say yes, my dad said he's let me drive his Rolls Royce.

Hannah: It's a date!

(She leaps up from her seat and gives Zack peck on the cheek, stunning everyone in the room.)

Hannah: Let's go girls, looks like we have a date to get ready for! Pick me up no later than six tomorrow. And I expect to be fed. A lady never gets past second base on an empty stomach.

Zack: Y-you got it! I'll see you then!

Hannah: Bye, bye Jack. Bye Jack's friends. Bye Kimmy, We've got some major catching up to do!

Kimberly: Sure... It's Zack, by the way.

(But Hannah ignores Kim and continues her way out of the Juice Bar with her friends, leaving it instantly quieter in their absence.)

Kimberly: Zack, do you mind telling us what on Earth you're thinking?

Jason: Hannah's bad news bro.

Tommy: You're only asking to get your heart broken.

Zack: I know; that's why I need your help Tommy.

Tommy: You've got to be out of your mind if you think I'm gonna help you after this stunt you just pulled.

Zack: Come on man, be a friend. Remember you said you owed me one. It would be really unfortunate if Ms. Appleby were to find out just how much you contributed to the project.

Tommy: Wonderful. So you're blackmailing me now into going on a date with you and Ms. prissy pants? That'll make me really want to help you.

Kimberly: Yeah, this is not how I want to spend my anniversary Zack. I'm sorry.

Zack: Look, the only reason I want you and Kim to help me is because you two are like, the most perfect couple I've ever encountered. You guys are like PB & J, or fried chicken and gravy.

Tommy: Wow, that's vaguely racist.

Zack: I just figured that with Kim being an old friend of Hannah's she'd act like a buffer between her and I while I get to know her more. And I'd get to model what you guys are doing on her.

(Flattered, Kim and Tommy show signs of relenting.)

Kimberly: Well, I guess that plan isn't totally illogical.

Zack: I'll even pay for everything, just come out with us. I know myself. I'm just gonna get nervous and freeze up. I've known this girl since September and I've been too nervous to do much more than stare at the back of her head.

Robbie: Don't worry, her other boyfriends do the same thing.

Tommy: Fine. I'll do it. But we're even after this. I don't wanna hear about Appleby anymore.

Zack: Even Steven!

(Zack exhales, then reaches out to slap a reluctant Tommy friend five. Watching all this unfold and thinking of a way to turn this night against them is Lord Zedd, who is still on his balcony.)

Lord Zedd: Ah, why isn't this perfect.

Squatt: Not really. This looks like a Zack episode.

Baboo: Yeah, I wonder what else is on.

Lord Zedd: Not that you imbeciles, the green ranger will be separated from most of his friends while on this double date. This will be the perfect opportunity to right Rita's biggest wrong.

Goldar: Ah yes, my lord!

(Zedd grimaces at the sound of Goldar's voice.)

Lord Zedd: Speaking of Rita's wrongs…

Goldar: …and in the meanwhile you can send me down to distract the others. A perfect plan if I do say so myself your evilness!

Lord Zedd: Ha! To think I would entrust you with anything other than menial tasks is simply laughable. You are nothing more than a glorified house boy.

Goldar: Please my lord, I beg of you, give me a shot at them. I will not disappoint you. I am a world class warrior and worthy of destroying those little power brats. I have even been by your side since the very beginning.

Lord Zedd: You think your worthless cheerleading means a thing to me? You are hardly worthy of changing Squatt's diapers or cleaning the sacred ground I walk on.

Squatt: …which if I do it correctly, can become the same task.

Lord Zedd: However as a show of good will, I'll give you this one shot, one shot! You are simply to keep the others distracted while I kidnap Tommy and drain his powers. Is this too complicated for you?

Goldar: Of course not master, I will not disappoint you. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity.

(Goldar bows loyally at his master's feet, but Zedd doesn't even give him the time of day and turns back to the balcony to face Earth.)

Lord Zedd: Yes, now all that's left is to decide on what to do with Tommy.

(Finster calmly steps in from the other room, with a wide, opportunistic grin.)

Finster: (bows) Ah, perhaps I could be of some assistance?

(The following day after class comes and goes and after class the gang separates to do two different things. Kim, Zack and Tommy go to their homes to prepare for Zack's big date while Jason and Billy set up a table at the park in preparation for Robbie and Trini's arrival.)

Trini: Robbie, where are you taking me? You do know that I have midterms to study for, right?

Robbie: It's just a bit further, and it won't take long at all. And you can trust me, it'll be worth it.

Trini: The last time you said that resulted in a false alarm and a trip to Planned Parenthood.

Robbie: Well I kept my word; nothing happened, right?

(Just a few yards down, Jason and Billy spot them and hustle to make final preparations.)

Jason: Quick here they come, grab the cake, I've got the hats.

(Jason and Billy put everything behind their backs and turn around block whatever's on the table with their bodies.)

Trini: Is that Billy and Jason; what are they doing here?

Robbie: They just decided to come down and help me make this a special day for a special woman.

Jason and Billy: Happy 17th birthday!

(Jason and Billy step aside to reveal a table full of presents, as well as a small ice cream cake and party hats in each of their hands. Trini, looking genuinely shocked, turns around and give her boyfriend a big hug.)

Robbie: Happy birthday Trini!

Trini: Oh my goodness, this is amazing! Thank you, thank you so much!

Billy: Here, blow out your candle before it melts.

Jason: Don't forget to make a wish.

(Billy raises the cake to Trini's face. She pauses for a second to think about what to wish for before finally blowing it out.)

Jason: I don't think it came true, Robbie's still here.

Trini: Don't be silly, I would never wish away such a sweet, thoughtful man.

Robbie: (bashfully) Aw, it was nothing. I just wanted to do something just for you. I also knew you didn't have a lot of time so I tried to give you something short and quick.

(Jason leans over to whisper something in Billy's ear.)

Jason: …I bet he gives her that a lot.

Robbie: Anyway we can stay as long as you'd like, no pressure at all.

Jason: Yeah, we've got nothing planned for tonight and our global outreach stuff isn't until tomorrow.

Billy: Though I can't help feeling like I'm forgetting something.

(Only about a hundred yards away, Billy's girlfriend Marge waits for him by the pond holding a picnic basket. She impatiently checks her watch, wondering if he's ever gonna show up.)

Billy: Oh well, it's probably nothing.

Trini: This is wonderful you guys, thank you so much.

(Just then, something pops into Trini's head puts her in a state of sudden urgency. She checks her watch which worries the others.)

Trini: Oh no!

Robbie: Wh-what's wrong?

Trini: I just forgot about the global outreach food drive.

Jason: That isn't until tomorrow.

Trini: I know, but I promised them last week I'd help set up at the rec center. (Groans) I can't believe this I forgot it was my birthday tonight.

Robbie: Oh. Well… that's okay! It's your dream right? Go, I'll save you a piece of cake.

(Robbie tries his hardest to feign enthusiasm, though everyone sees right through it; especially Trini.)

Trini: Robbie, I'm so sorry.

Robbie: It's okay, stop apologizing.

Trini: No. Don't think I don't understand how lucky I am to have such a sweet, caring guy like you.

(She leans into him for a loving embrace, then kisses him softly on the cheek.)

Trini: I love you Robbie. I really do.

Robbie: …I love you too. I really do.

(The two of them lock eyes, blocking everything else around them out. Finally after an indescribable amount of time, Trini breaks the silence.)

Trini: Well, I've got to go.

Robbie: Okay.

(She lets him go. The breeze hits Robbie as she walks away, leaving him feeling especially cold. Jason and Billy just stand awkwardly by as he watches her slowly disappear. However, she isn't able to get very far.)

"Don't leave now! The party has just begun, hahaha!"

Jason: Goldar!

(Goldar appears before her in a flash, and he's brought a pack of putties with him.)

Robbie: This is perfect.

Trini: What do you want, Goldar? I don't have time for this.

Goldar: I just came to give you your present from Lord Zedd himself. Attack!

Billy: Look out!

Jason: It's morphin time!

Billy: Triceratops!

Robbie: Stegosaurus!

Trini: Saber-Tooth Tiger!

Jason: Tyrannosaurus!

(The now morphed rangers regroup and line up, facing opposite of Goldar and his goons.)

Jason: Okay, I'll handle Goldar, you three can take care of the putties.

Billy: Right!

Robbie: Right!

Trini: Okay. And let's make this quick guys, I'm running late as it is.

Jason: Let's do it!

(The three spread out, with Jason pulling out his power sword and charging at Goldar. He flips forward, but quickly ducks a blow from Goldars sword. The two exchange blows, only to be blocked by the other, like two bulls locking horns. Finally Goldar is able to knock him backwards with stiff kick to the midsection.)

Goldar: I'm actually a little hurt red ranger. I've known your friend for over a year and I don't get an invite?

Jason: Sorry, you didn't come to mind. Nice of you to crash though.

(Jason leaps up and around and rocks him with a spin kick right in the jaw. Disoriented, Goldar tumbles backwards and crashes into some recycling bins, spilling trash everywhere. On the other end, Robbie takes care of a few Z-Putties in his own, much less refined way.)

Robbie: I'm not in the mood to deal with you punks right now!

(He takes a wild swing at the putty in front of him, who ducks.)

Robbie: My girlfriend's birthday party is ruined…

(He takes another wild, predictable swing. The putty ducks again.)

Robbie: My girlfriend, who won't give me the time of day…

(From both sides, two putties grab hold of his arm and try to pin him down. The enemy in front of him tries to capitalize, but he recovers quickly by using the putties to his side as leverage to lift himself up and land a double kick to the giant Z target. The putty flies backwards and falls over the table, landing on top of Trini's birthday cake.)

Robbie: And now my dinner's ruined!

(Furiously, he rips his arms away from his enemies and elbows both of them simultaneously on their Z targets. Meanwhile Billy somehow manages to get himself circled around the vacant jungle gym area. Panicking, he climbs to the top of it, where two of them follow.)

Billy: So nice of you two to make it to the party.

(One of them tries to knock him off balance with a kick to the leg, but Billy leaps over it and lands on bars, retaining his balance. He blocks a punch the follows and lands his own kick to the enemy's abdomen, knock it off the jungle gym and flat on the ground. In doing so, Billy loses his balance and falls through a space between the bars beneath him. The remaining putty mindlessly scratches its head and does nothing else, giving Billy the time to capitalize by grabbing the bars and lifting himself back up and kicking the enemy off in one swift motion.)

Billy: Surprise!

(Finally, Trini, appearing rushed and a bit sloppy on her end tries to get through her pack of putties as quickly as possible so that she can get back to her hectic life. She isn't doing a very good job of it though, and appears to be making a ton of mistakes, causing the putties to take the upper hand.)

Trini: You fools, get off of me!

(Feeling cornered, she tries to land a desperate kick but it gets caught in mid-air before getting flipped backwards.)

Robbie: Trini! I'm coming, hang on.

(The brown ranger rushes over to aid his girlfriend, but before he can go anywhere, a second mob of putties appear in front of him, blocking his way.)

Goldar Hahaha! You're not going anywhere; none of you are!

(More putties appear around each and every one of the rangers, turning a routine putty fight into something much direr. The four of them are in desperate need of help, however that help is somewhere else entirely. Well-dressed and excitedly nervous, Zack guides his date Hannah inside a dimly lit hallway.)

Hannah: An hour late and this is where you're taking me? It doesn't even look open right now.

Zack: Yeah this is the place. And I've got connections with the owner so he gave me the hook up just for tonight.

Hannah: Is this gonna be anything like the "hook up" your daddy gave you when he let you ride the Rolls Royce?

(Zack scratches the back of his neck.)

Zack: Yeah, I'm sorry about that. I had no idea he took it to the shop this morning. Our ride wasn't so bad though.

Hannah: You took me on the bus. If I wanna smell B.O on a date, I wouldn't have bothered showering.

Zack: I know, I know, I'm sorry.

Hannah: You're not off to a great start you know.

Zack: Look just give this a chance, okay? Let's just focus on having a good time tonight.

Hannah: Fine… I guess since I'm here I might as well try.

Zack: You look very pretty tonight by the way.

Hannah: Thanks. …do you really think so?

Zack: I know so. You were the prettiest girl on that bus.

Hannah: Unless you count the transvestites.

(Hannah drops her guard for a brief second and let's herself laugh with Zack. Suddenly Zack is filled with a cautious optimism, thinking he may actually have a shot at making this work.)

Hannah: (smiling) Say, do you like these earrings?

Zack: I do, they're beautiful. I bought my ex-girlfriend a pair like those once.

(And as sudden, the feeling was gone. She rolls her eyes and awkwardly covers her ears with her hair. Fortunately by then Tommy and Kim walk in looking extremely well dressed. Despite that, neither seem to be too excited about tonight.)

Zack: So glad you could finally join us.

Kimberly: Sorry, Tommy and I were deciding what to wear.

Zack: Well, I'm just glad that the dress is on Kim tonight.

Tommy: …

Kimberly: Are you sure this is the right place Zack? This is where you want to hold our date.

Hannah: You took the words right out of my mouth.

Zack: Positive. We're just moments away from tasting some of the finest cuisine in Angel Grove. Why are you doubting me?

Hannah: It might have something to do with you of not showing up at six with a Rolls Royce like expected, but at seven with a bus pass. But do you really want to know why I don't believe your latest absurd claim?

(Before Zack can even open his mouth to defend himself, Hannah grabs him by the hand and yanks him down the hallway and to the main floor of the restaurant.)

Hannah: …because you've just taken us back to the Juice Bar.

Tommy: I hear wedding bells already.

Zack: Shut up.

Hannah: Please tell me you're playing a joke on me. Tell me you aren't as stupid as you seem right now. Heck, I may even get a laugh out of it. Before I kick you in the shin and walk out of this dump.

Zack: No Hannah. Look, I know this date is off to a really bad start, but please just give this a chance.

Hannah: Why should I?

Zack: Because I just so happen to really like the food here. Plus, I've had so many memories here with my friends too, dances, birthdays bar mitzvahs, and in one horrific accident involving our friend Skull, a bris.

(Hannah continues to stare at him coldly, not giving an inch.)

Zack: I'd really just like to have a special moment here with you. Besides, Ernie's agreed to take care of us for the night, so order whatever you'd like. Worst case scenario, you get a free meal.

(He looks to Ernie by the barstools and tries to call for his attention, though he looks more concerned with the stack of papers in front of him.)

Zack: Ernie…?

Ernie: Huh…? Oh hey, Zack, guys, come on in. Take a seat wherever, I'll be right over.

Kimberly: Is everything okay Ernie, you look upset?

Ernie: Eh, it's nothing you need to concern yourselves over. I'm just running pretty tight on cash this month. Don't worry about it though. Anyways what can I get you guys?

(As the four take their seats as Ernie passes by with menus.)

Zack: I think we'll just start off with drinks for now. Four banana shakes please? Is that okay Hannah?

Hannah: Whatever. That sounds fine.

Ernie: Coming up.

Hannah: You know, the only reason I'm still here is because I feel kind of sorry for you. No guy's ever really spoken to me that way before.

Kimberly: You mean like a human?

Hannah: Exactly. I guess I'm used to being treated like some piece of meat or a trophy to obtain. So, I don't know. I'll give tonight a shot.

Zack: Thank you Hannah, I promise you won't regret it.

Kimberly: (gasps) Oh my God, is my little Hannah growing up?

Hannah: (scoffs) As if. It's just… you know, maybe this place isn't as dumpy as I thought it'd be. The atmosphere is actually pretty nice. …friendly even.

(She turns to Zack with a small grin.)

Tommy: Ooh, is it a bad time to mention the swastika someone drew on the table?

(Meanwhile back on the moon, Finster goes over his plan with Zedd while taking him through a walking tour of the new and improved monster workshop.)

Finster: Now that the others are occupied, this is the perfect opportunity to begin the second part of our plan. We capture the green ranger, relocate him to the mountains and then pummel him with three of my strongest monsters.

Lord Zedd: I'm surprised. That isn't the stupidest thing I've heard all day. Why, I must be going soft.

Finster: He will most likely try to fight back and morph, which is when we do our damage. The green ranger power is on a very short leash, with the help of my monsters we can…

Lord Zedd: …take that leash, wrap it around his neck and put the miserable mutt down for good. Brilliant! Get to work Finster, we haven't a moment to lose.

Finster: Right away my Lord!

(Finster bows to his master, then eagerly gets to work. Meanwhile, back at the Juice Bar something far less likely than Tommy losing his powers is taking place, Hannah is having a good time.)

Zack: …and Jason was like, who the heck is Brock and why is everyone calling me that?!

Hannah: (Laughing uproariously) Oh my god that just made my night!

Tommy: I always thought that was his middle name or something.

Zack: Nope! So, does anyone wanna order anything else? Maybe some coffee?

Kimberly: Oh no, I can't have another bite. I'm totally stuffed.

Hannah: Same here. I've totally just shattered my diet today.

Zack: Great. I'll just grab Ernie and we can head out of here.

Tommy: Awesome. Hey do you mind if I step outside real quick? I just need some fresh air.

Zack: Sure, go ahead.

Kimberly: I'll come with you Tommy.

(Kim turns to Zack and slaps his shoulder with a suggestive grin.)

Kimberly: We'll just leave you two alone for a minute.

(Kim and Tommy get up and leave as Zack motions for Ernie's attention.)

Hannah: You know, I've got to say Zack, I'm really enjoying myself tonight.

Zack: Really?!

Hannah: Yeah. You know, I wasn't even gonna show up until my other plans fell through, but I'm kinda glad they did. You're super funny and actually kinda cute.

Zack: Wow. Thank you Hannah. The feeling is definitely mutual.

Hannah: Oh my God, this is totally weird. I don't normally date poor boys and enjoy myself so much. This is like, kind of a big deal.

(Despite her compliment being backhanded, Zack takes it in stride.)

Zack: Hannah, do you want me to walk you home? We can go through the park.

Hannah: I'd actually like that.

(Ernie approaches the two.)

Ernie: Hey fellas, I hope you enjoyed your meal.

Zack: Yeah, it was perfect. Thank you Ernie.

Ernie: Anytime buddy. Here's your check.

(Ernie slaps a check book onto the table to Zack's befuddlement, and then just walks away.)

Zack: Wait, check?

Hannah: I thought you said he'd take care of it.

Zack: I did. I mean, he said he would.

Hannah: That isn't going to be a problem, right?

Zack: No, no… it definitely won't. Just uh, excuse me a minute.

(Zack tries to get up as calmly as possible but then makes b-line toward Ernie, who is grabbing a bus tray.)

Zack: Ernie, what are you doing?

Ernie: I'm cleaning your table.

Zack: That's not what I meant. I mean, why are you charging us for this meal, you aid you'd take care of it.

Ernie: Look, Zack the Juice Bar's broke. An Arby's opened up across the street and suddenly nobody wants to eat at the gym anymore. Besides, you ate $173 worth of merchandise, what did you expect?

Zack: I would've never ordered that much food if I knew I'd be paying for it!

Ernie: I'm really sorry Zack, I am, but I need profit. And you and your friends have been freeloading here for long enough.

Zack: Freeloading?! My friends and I have been valued customers here for years! You give stuff away to us constantly!

Ernie: Well the gravy train ends here.

Zack: What?! You can't do this, just this one more meal Ernie. Come on, you promised me.

Ernie: My hands are tied.

Zack: But I don't have any money. Why do you think I brought her into this dump? I was hoping you'd help a brotha out.

Ernie: I'm not your brother. But your broad looks like she's got some cash. You should ask her for a loan.

Zack: You know, this is ridiculous. After all these years, all the stupid dances and bake sales we've organized here and this is the thanks I get. I am never coming back to this place again!

Ernie: Yeah you will.

Zack: …fine, you're right. But still, I'm angry at you.

Ernie: So you're gonna pay me or not?

Zack: I told you, I don't have any money!

Ernie: We'll I'm sorry, but you gotta pay back my tab somehow. You're not leaving till you do.

Zack: Oh yeah, what do you think you're gonna do to us, make us wash dishes?

(Twenty minutes later, Zack and Hannah have been sent to the back to wash dishes.)

Zack: So Hannah, you wanna just catch a movie next time?

Hannah: GET. BENT.

Zack: Come Hannah, why do you have to be this way?

Hannah: Stop talking, or I swear to God, I will smash this plate over your head.

(A defeated Zack sighs before turning his head away to hide how upset with himself he is.)

Hannah: Where in the world are Kim and her boyfriend anyway?! They must've ditched us. They knew you were full of it and probably skipped out early. What I wouldn't give to take their place right now.

(Meanwhile outside the Juice Bar, Kim and Tommy are under attack from three of Finster's past monsters: Eye Guy, Rockstar and Polluticorn. It escalated so quickly, that they've been forced to morph before even being able to call for help. However, it doesn't look to be doing them any good as they're struggling to keep up. Tommy seems to be getting the worst of it, who with each second seems fade more and more out of his suit.)

Kimberly: Oh no, Tommy look out!

(While Kim fights the Eye Guy, Tommy is double teamed by the other two monsters and can't seem to get any kind of leverage against one without it being interrupted by the other. Clearly outmatched, he pulls out his Dragon Dagger and plays a melody, unleashing a beam that blows up at point blank range on Polluticorn. This frees him up to land a jab on the Rockstar, but he catches his wrist and takes him down to a knee with a quick shot to the back.)

Tommy: Ah… Kimberly…

Kimberly: I'm coming Tommy, hang on!

(Desperately, she tries to rush past the Eye Guy, but he grab her by the arm and yanks her into a pile of boxes. As Polluticorn gets back to his feet, the three monsters get together and prepare to teleport.)

Eye Guy: Oh before we go pink ranger, we'd just like to say one last thing

(The other two monsters join in.)

"Happy anniversary!"

Kimberly: NOOO!

(They vanish into thin air, leaving behind only Tommy's Dragon Dagger, which falls to the cold concrete ground. Distraught, she reaches for her communicator to call Zordon.)

Kimberly: Zordon, come in! Three monsters have taken Tommy. They just attacked us out of nowhere and targeted him. You have to do something.

Zordon: I am aware of the problem Kimberly. Come to the command center and I will contact Zack.

Kimberly: Yes Zordon.

(She readies for teleportation, but takes a long look at Tommy's Dragon Dagger laying on the floor. Before long she retreats to the command center, where an equally worried Zack meets her soon after.)

Zack: Kim! Kim are you alright?!

Kimberly: I-I'm okay.

Zack: This is all my fault. I knew I shouldn't have dragged you and Tommy out on this stupid date. Man, if something happens to him…

Kimberly: Don't blame yourself Zack, there's no way you could've known this would happen.

Zack: But this wouldn't have happened if I hadn't blackmailed him into coming. I took advantage of a friend over a chick.

Kimberly: How'd you lose Hannah to get here anyway?

Zack: Oh. I told her I was taking out the trash.

Kimberly: Huh?

Zack: I'll explain later.

Zordon: Zack, Kimberly, as you know Tommy has been kidnapped in another plot by Lord Zedd to try and eliminate the green ranger.

Zack: Do we know his location?

Zordon: Yes, surprisingly he is not hidden. Behold the viewing globe.

(The two turn away from Zordon to see Tommy just waking up in a mountainous region just outside Angel Grove. Clutching his head, he appears completely unaware of the dangers surrounding him. However before he wakes up he gets a rude awakening.)

Rockstar: Rise and shine!

Tommy: AHH!

(The Rockstar mercilessly stomps down on his right wrist, damaging his communicator so that he cannot escape. It gets worse when Tommy finally does look up, he looks around and sees that he's not only surrounded by three monsters, but a swarm of putties.)

Polluticorn: I bet this isn't the kind of action you'd thought you'd be getting on your anniversary, eh?

Tommy: (groaning) …

Kimberly: We have to contact the others and get over there.

Alpha: Unfortunately, it appears Lord Zedd anticipated that and has sent down Goldar to keep the others at bay.

(The image on the viewing globe switches on Alpha's cue to the others as they with Goldar. That fight has now spread to the top of a skyscraper.)

Billy: The putties keep coming back! No matter how many we take out, more just keep replacing them.

(Billy tries to fight off the two to his side with a splitting side kick to each ones chest. They're maimed and disappear, but within seconds, he's grabbed and brought down by two fresh ones that magically appear behind him.)

Jason: We just need to hold on. Tommy and the others should be here soon.

(The image abruptly cuts off as a sword wielding Goldar steps in front of the lens.)

Kimberly: What are we gonna do? I mean, we can't just leave them there, but we can't leave Tommy to die.

Zordon: I understand your concerns Kimberly, but there is little we can do to help both.

(After quietly pondering his next move, Zack finally speaks up.)

Zack: I'll save Tommy. Alone.

Kimberly: What? Zack, no. That's suicide!

Zack: We don't have any other choice here. You need to go down there and help the others.

Kimberly: Zack, its four rangers down there against Goldar and a pack of putties. Tommy is down there against three and a pack of putties by himself. There's no way you're going alone.

Zordon: I'm afraid it may be our only chance. Take Goldar down as quickly as you can, then go with the others to Tommy's location and assist Zack. I have uploaded the coordinates to your communicator.

Kimberly: …

Zack: We'll stop this attack, and I'll save Tommy. It's the least I could do for him after he went out of his way to help me out tonight. I'll be okay, even if I have to fight alone.

Kimberly: You won't be alone.

Zack: Huh?

Kimberly: Here, take this.

(Zack holds out his hands so that Kim may place something in it.)

Zack: Tommy's Dragon Dagger? But, how did you…

Kimberly: You'll need it. Now please, go save him.

(He nods.)

Zack: …you have my word.

Zordon: Go now, and may the power protect you.

Zack: It's morphin time!

Mastodon!

(Back downtown where the others find themselves in a seemingly never ending trap, Goldar is able to wear down Jason after a lengthy battle and has a clear upper hand, reversing every blow he gives him, including a punch that Goldar catches in mid-air. With all his brute strength the crushes Jason's hands, and leaves the red ranger writing in pain as he falls to a knee.)

Goldar: I'm gonna make you wish you stuck to charity work red ranger. When I'm through with you, it's gonna take the more than any Swiss government to put the pieces back together.

Jason: (Writhingly) Ugh, let go of you to gold baboon.

Goldar: Oh, am I hurting you? Well…

(He takes Jason by the hand and like a ragdoll pushes him against the guard rail that stands between a fifty story drop.)

Goldar: I'd be glad to let you go, hahaha!

Jason: Someone help!

Robbie: I'm trying!

Trini: I can't get past these clay brains.

(Trini lands a series of lighting fast strikes to the midsection of one before taking it down with a knee to the chest. But before progressing a mere five feet, her path is blocked by more.)

Goldar: Nobody is here to help you red ranger! Say your prayers….

(Just as his life flashes before Jason's eyes, he sees some much needed reprieve coming through his peripherals. An arrow nails Goldar across his chest, dropping Jason safely on the ground as he stumbles backwards. The pink ranger goes soaring through the air not far behind.)

Jason: Kim! Oh thank god, you just saved my life.

Kimberly: Don't mention it.

Jason: Where are the others?

Kimberly: Tommy's in danger and Zack's out saving him. We need to hurry so we can help him.

Jason: Right!

Kimberly: Focus on Goldar.

Goldar: You'll pay for that! You'll meet the same fate as your precious little boyfriend, I'll see to that!

(As Kim and Jason charge Zedd's right hand man, Tommy remains in danger as Goldar suggests in the middle of nowhere. Bravely trying to fight back, he is able to do little more than just stay on his feet. Tommy blocks the shots of several putties around him with his normal sure handedness, but as soon as Polluticorn and Eye Guy get involved and start landing blows, he begins laboring. He blocks the kick of Eye Guy and punches him in the gut to push him back, but he's now to slow to catch Polluticorn charging him from behind and nailing him with his horn. The green ranger goes flying a good ten yards and slides for another ten as he feels the last of his energy escaping him.)

Tommy: (Panting) Yo-you'll never get away with this… once my friends get here… th-they'll…

(But he doesn't even have the strength to finish his defiant statement.)

Polluticorn: Hahaha! Keep dreaming green ranger. With friends like yours, I'd never need any enemies. I'm sure your friend would rather kiss on that blonde than waste his time on you.

(Polluticorn and Eye Guy slowly and menacingly approach him, though there is little sign of life at this point. He isn't going anywhere.)

Eye Guy: And you know what? I don't blame him!

Polluticorn: (Laughing) Hey Rockstar, how's everything?

Rockstar: (thumbs up) The coast is clear my friends, the coast is-

(Out of nowhere, a powerful green beam drills him right in the face, blowing him up into a pile of matter within a blink of an eye. The commotion sets off alarm. The other two monsters look up to find Zack standing atop a hill, Dragon Dagger to his lips.)

Zack: Looks like this Rockstar can't even hold a tune.

Eye Guy: What?!

Polluticorn: It's the black ranger! After him.

(On command, the putties rush after Zack, but he is able to leap over some of them before hitting the ground and pushing through the current to make his way to Tommy. The remaining monsters don't make it any easier for him as they send beams of their own energy his way, causing explosions to erupt directly in his path. Swiftly though, he is able to avoid them while never breaking stride. The explosions do take out a few putties though.)

Polluticorn: You fool; a thousand eyes and you don't know how to aim?!

Eye Guy: I didn't see you hit him.

Polluticorn: Shut up and take him out.

(Eye Guy charges after Zack, who appears to be on a roll. He gets ever closer to Tommy, while taking out the foot soldiers gunning for him with seamless slashes of the Dragon Dagger. The Eye Guy catches up to him and tries for a spin kick, but Zack ducks, hits he breaks, hits and elbow, and as Eye Guy kneels over, to he glides into the air using the Dagger for an uppercut, taking the life of Eye Guy with him who blows up before he ever hits the ground. Zack lands on his two feet, then turns around to face Polluticorn without ever saying a word.)

Polluticorn: I see your date ended early. Loser.

Zack: Just ask your two friends, who the real losers are; their remains are scattered somewhere behind me.

Polluticorn: You may have been able to take down those two nimrods, but you don't scare me. You or your little toy.

Zack: Let Tommy go safely and I might let you off easy/

Polluticorn: You think you're gonna stop me? You and what army?

"This army!"

(Just in the nick of time, Jason and the others swoop wielding their weapons in for assistance, apparently running off Goldar.)

Polluticorn: (groans) That's a… good army.

Zack: You bet it is. We're here for our friend. This is your last warning, let him go or pay the price.

Polluticorn: Never!

Zack: Very well, Jason?

Jason: Alright, let's bring our weapons together!

All: RIGHT!

Zack: Power axe!
Kimberly: Power bow!
Trini: Power daggers!
Robbie: Power pocket knife!
Billy: Power lance!
Jason: Power sword!

(One by one, the weapons meet in mid-air to create something massive. Each of the weapon points the same direction and capped off by Jason jumping a good distance in the air to connect his weapon and bring the power blaster down.)

"POWER RANGERS!"

Polluticorn: Uh, okay… alright, I change my mind. You can have him!

Zack: Too late!

"FIRE!"

(They all extend their arms outward as a massive beam fires from each weapon. Within seconds Polluticorn falls into a ball of fire; disappearing for good in a cloud of its own dust. After a brief moment of celebration, Zack rushes over to his friend Tommy, who appears to be coming to.)

Tommy: Z-Zack…?

Zack: Tommy! Are you okay, man?

(Tommy pats himself down to make sure everything's in place.)

Tommy: I-I think so. Everything seems to be in one piece. I think I'm missing my dagger though.

Zack: No you're not.

(Zack pulls out the Dragon Dagger that served him well in this battle and hands it back to its rightful owner.)

Zack: I just borrowed it. I-I'm sorry man, I let you down.

Tommy: Don't be sorry, you used it to destroy those monsters, I'm totally for it.

Zack: No. I'm sorry about tonight. I took advantage of you by making you come out with me and put you in a dangerous spot. Can you ever forgive me?

(Tommy manages to muster out a faint laugh.)

Tommy: Don't worry about it man, it's not your fault. Besides, I totally took advantage of you with the project, so I guess we're even.

(Zack smiles from under his helmet, then offers his hand to help Tommy back to his feet.)

Zack: Even Steven.

(Back on the moon, the castle is bright red with Zedd's fury.)

Lord Zedd: I was a fool!

(He slams his fist into the balcony, then turns to face a petrified Finster.)

Lord Zedd: Why should I have expected a miserable failure like yourself to come up with a half way decent plan?! You gave me monsters that failed in the past and shockingly failed again! What do you have to say for yourself?!

Finster: I-I well I… B-but… this is Goldar's fault! He was supposed to be the distraction and he's the one that failed, not me. Yell at him, he's the "world class warrior!"

Goldar: I had them right where I wanted them! For your information, the only reason I left is because the post office was about to close.

Lord Zedd: Silence! You all failed, and thus you all share the blame.

Squatt: Look at the bright side, at least we beat the green ranger to within an inch of his life. It won't be much longer now.

Lord Zedd: Yes, I suppose the warthog is correct. The green ranger's clock is ticking. Next time he will not be so lucky.

(Later in the evening after a short debriefing by Zordon, Jason, Zack and Robbie decide to blow off some steam back at a virtually empty Juice Bar. Robbie and Jason talk amongst themselves as Zack finishes his journal entry.)

"Dear Journal

So my date didn't go as well as I'd hoped. I'm pretty sure I blew my chances with Hannah. But you know what, after a day like today, I don't really care so much. Today I realized what's truly important in my life. I have wonderful, loyal friends that would die for me just to see me happy. And I'm a vigilante superhero, who just saved the day. I may not have it all, but what I do have is pretty awesome."

Jason: Sorry your date with Hannah tanked.

Zack: Did Kim tell you?

Jason: N-no dude, you just read what you wrote down out loud. We can all hear you.

Robbie: And I wouldn't die for you. Sorry.

Zack: Oh… but yeah, it's alright I guess. The most important thing right now is that Tommy's alright.

Jason: Alpha says he'll probably be fine. He's just running the tests for precautionary reasons.

Robbie: I'm betting that's not how he and Kim planned on celebrating their first year together.

Zack: Kudos to her though for staying behind with him. Those two are truly meant for each other.

Jason: Dude don't get all mushy. You're young alright? You'll find someone.

Zack: I know, I'm not stressing it one bit. I've got a lot going on, a girl would just get in my way. So for now, being the only one without a girl in my life is not so bad!

(Robbie and Jason raise their glasses in solidarity as a sullen looking Billy walks in.)

Billy: Marge dumped me.

Zack: OH THANK GOD!

(Everyone stares at Zack blankly, who quickly pipes down.)

Robbie: What happened?

Billy: I completely forgot that today Marge and I were supposed to have a picnic at the park. I stood her up.

(He pulls out a chair and slumps down looking miserable.)

Zack: I'm sorry man.

Billy: (sighs) Don't be. I suppose it wasn't working out anyway. Beyond the initial honeymoon period, Marge and I just didn't click like I thought we would. It doesn't make it easier though.

Ernie: I know what'll cheer you up!

(Ernie chimes in, holding a giant soda in his hand and placing it in front of Billy.)

Billy: Thanks Ernie, I appreciate it.

Ernie: No problem buddy. By the way Zack, I'm sorry for how I reacted earlier today.

Zack: You don't have to apologize Ernie. I understand money's tight.

Ernie: Actually, that's why I'm apologizing. Cause it's not.

Zack: Huh?

Ernie: Yeah, I did the math in my head wrong, I'm actually gonna be okay.

Jason: Hey, that's great Ernie!

Robbie: Yeah, I'd hate to see this place close down.

Ernie: Turns out I turned quite a profit this month! I might wanna invest in a calculator next time. Or maybe now I can get some cleaning rags instead of reusing gym towels.

Jason: Well that's good to here. So how much do we owe you?

Ernie: Oh, this one's on me!

Zack: …

Jason: That's awesome man, thanks. You really do come through for us.

Ernie: Hey don't mention it. Oh by the way, Zack, you're girlfriends still in the back doing dishes. She don't look too happy.

Zack: Oh my God, Hannah! I totally spaced!

(Zack shoots out of his chair, and darts for the back of house. His friends break out in laughter as the episode ends.)