Disclaimer: I don't own Power Rangers. Saban and Nickelodeon own them. I also don't own
any song lyrics used.
AN: Here's chapter 54! Enjoy and let me know what you think! Thanks to all the great reviews from everyone.
Crimson Rising
Chapter 54: Amazed
Every time our eyes meet
This feeling inside me
Is almost more than I can take
Baby when you touch me
I can feel how much you love me
And it just blows me away
I've never been this close to anyone or anything
I can hear your thoughts
I can see your dreams
I don't know how you do what you do
I'm so in love with you
It just keeps getting better
I wanna spend the rest of my life
With you by my side
Forever and ever
Every little thing that you do
Baby I'm amazed by you
The smell of your skin
The taste of your kiss
The way you whisper in the dark
Your hair all around me
Baby you surround me
You touch every place in my heart
Oh it feels like the first time every time
I wanna spend the whole night in your arms
Song: Amazed
Artist: Lonestar
Tori's eyes fluttered open, as their lips parted again. They swayed slowly on the dance floor,
completely absorbed by each other.
"It's over and we're finally married. I feel like someone should pinch me so I can make sure I'm not dreaming," she said. He smirked.
"Well, there's definitely places I'd like to pinch, but they're not appropriate in public," Hunter replied slyly. She lightly smacked his arm.
"You're terrible," she playfully scolded. He pulled her as close as possible and pressed his forehead to hers.
"Maybe, but you love it.," he replied.
"I do," she admitted, as their lips met again.
"This is just the beginning for us though," he said. She nodded. The clinging of a glass caught their attention.
"Okay...time for the best man's speech," Blake said, as he drew their attention.
"Bro, when I found out that you and Tori were together, I'll admit, I was shocked and kind of upset at first. I thought I had really blown it and I even wanted to be mad at you for stealing her. But then I saw you together and I knew instantly that it wasn't like that at all," Blake said, pausing for a moment.
"Since our parents were killed, there has never been a peace in you. But when I came back and saw you for the first time in nearly three years, there was a peace in you that I don't think has ever existed. I saw it the moment you looked at each other. I was a little angry, but I couldn't stay that way, because you were happy and I had never seen that before," Blake said, smiling at them.
"And it worked out, because I found the person I'm supposed to be with too," Blake said, smiling at Carly, who smiled shyly.
"Seeing you two so happy makes me really happy. To Tori and Hunter," he said, raising his glass. The others followed suit and toasted, as the newlywed couple drank too and shared a kiss. The music started up again and Hunter led his bride onto the dance floor again, when Jason spotted Billy.
"Wow...so you're really going to do it?" Jason asked. Most were still dancing and socializing, but Kat had left momentarily to take Trina and Aiden inside to tuck them in. Left to his own devices, Billy found his way to a table where his laptop was.
"It only took him two days after Ooze was defeated to have one of his fancy attorneys petition for custody of Aiden. Even with all the FBI's evidence against him, he's sure he'll win and buy his way out. Taking Aiden away from Kat would kill her and he knows it," Billy said.
"Then do it," Jason urged.
"Some would say I'm just sinking to his level," Billy replied.
"Some don't have kids and some wouldn't know what it feels like when someone you love is hurting, especially if you know how to prevent them from being hurt," Jason countered. Billy nodded with no more reservation and pressed the enter button.
"Just like that?" Jason asked in fascination. Billy nodded.
"The money in every single account that Malcolm has is now being instantaneously transferred to various accounts for worthy charities in the forms of anonymous donations. And it is completely untraceable," Billy stated.
"It's done. He still has assets, properties, and any money not in banks, but that will quickly run dry with his expensive lifestyle," Billy replied.
"Good. Now be happy. You both deserve it," Jason said.
"Thanks Jase," Billy replied.
The party soon winded down and they bid the newlyweds goodbye. They boarded the crimson carrier zord and were off on their honeymoon. They had been invited to be honored guests on KO-35 and spend a week there on a very luxurious resort and had graciously accepted the invitation. Once they left the Earth's atmosphere, Hunter plotted their course.
"Course plotted. We'll be there tomorrow morning," he said. She smiled sultrily at him and stood up.
"All night alone in space? How will we pass the time?" she asked coyly. He stood up, towering over her with a hungry look.
"Well, we certainly won't be sleeping," he replied, as he kissed her passionately. She smiled, as their lips parted and led him back toward the sleep quarters on the ship.
S.P.D. Command Ship in orbit of Duronia
Young Commander Anubis Doggie Cruger entered the bridge aboard the Command ship and waited to be acknowledged by his superior.
"Report," Fowler Birdie ordered.
"Duronia is secure. Any wishing to cause more chaos have been detained. The threat that the Phoenix ranger will return has quelled most of the resistance. A few nobles are unaccounted for and the rumor is that they have fled to sympathetic worlds to plot revenge. But I don't believe they are of much concern," Cruger reported.
"We cannot take any threat lightly. M-51 still resists and word has it that it is gaining power, thanks to many other worlds joining their cause," Birdie responded.
"I'm confident that if it become necessary, the crimson ranger and his team can quell any violence," Doggie said.
"Yet he refuses to join S.P.D.," Birdie replied.
"They will never have the anonymity they once had, but I respect their decision to rebuild their Academy. As long as we all fight on the same side, they will always be a valuable and powerful ally," Cruger reasoned.
"I hope you are right. What of S.P.D.'s establishment on Earth?" Birdie questioned.
"We have gone public with the existence to the Earthlings. It has been met with mixed reception. But we have fifteen generations of rangers behind us, so I don't see any resistance being a problem," Cruger responded.
"Humans are foolish. I'm not certain that a ranger program on Earth is a good idea," Birdie said.
"With all due respect, I disagree. These foolish humans, as you put it, have defended their planet against some of the galaxy's greatest evils. It was not so long ago that Lord Zedd and Master Vile were the most fearsome tyrants in the galaxy. The Machine Empire lay waste to everything in its path until they happened upon the Zeo rangers. Earth has a long legacy of power that even species much older are envious of," Cruger stated.
"Perhaps, but many are leery of Earth for those reasons as well. That's why I have decided that you will lead S.P.D's earth division," Birdie announced. Doggie carefully hid his surprise.
"It will be an honor, sir," Cruger responded.
Thanks to Anton's help, the wreckage and rubble of the leveled Wind Ninja Academy had been quickly cleared away and the groundwork for the new Wind Thunder Ninja Academy was underway. Since they knew they would never enjoy anonymity again, they decided to rebuild the Academy near Blue Bay Harbor. Highly trained returning students guarded the gates so only authorized personnel was admitted.
Cam did his rounds same as he had once done and even though they had a long ways to go until the school was completely rebuilt, he was happy to be home. That is, until he was nearly run over by a red blur on a skateboard. He rolled his eyes.
"You know, I expect this from students, but you're a Sensei. You can't roll around here on a skateboard. I expect Dustin to be a bad influence, but not you Shane," Cam lectured. Shane stopped after an impressive twist and popped his board, before throwing it under one arm.
"Relax...there's no new students yet. We don't even have a school yet. Besides, I tried skating at the skate park in town, but that was a disaster. Everyone kept crowding around and taking pictures of the "red ranger"," Shane complained.
"Yeah, we're a little famous now. You're going to have to learn to deal with it," Cam responded.
"That's easy for you to say, dude. You haven't gone out there yet," Dustin said, as he munched on a corn dog. Cam rolled his eyes.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the defenders of the planet," he drawled sarcastically.
"Don't lie, you'd miss us," Shane retorted.
"The sad thing is that I probably would. I need to get my head examined," Cam joked.
"Relax son, it is well past time that we as they say, blow off some steam," Kanoi said. Cam smirked.
"I guess you're right. I think I'll go sneak into town and see Hayley," Cam decided, as he abandoned his clipboard and headed out.
The ramp on the Phoenix zord lowered and the two occupants disembarked, as the KO-35 sun welcomed them. Ashley and Karone greeted them with hugs, while Andros and Zhane exchanged handshakes.
"Thanks for coming back. Hopefully, you get to enjoy what KO-35 has to offer this time around," Andros said.
"Thanks for inviting us," Hunter replied.
"Yeah, I keep hearing that the beaches on the coast are amazing," Tori mentioned.
"Oh they are. You're going to love it," Ashley assured.
"We were hoping that after you check into the resort that you'd join us for dinner," Karone prompted. They nodded.
"We'd love to," Hunter replied.
"Good evening," President Shay said, as he stood at the podium with the White House as his backdrop.
"Tonight I address not just the American people, but the world. Just days ago, the culmination of months of battles came to a head and a final end with the Power Rangers victorious. With that, a new era begins on our humble planet. For years, we have known that we are not alone in this Universe and it has become clearly evident that not all alien beings mean to harm us. By building relationships with friendly worlds, we can further establish not only an understanding of each other, but a unified galactic front against the forces of evil.
Over the next several years, Space Patrol Delta will establish an Earth presence and build the next generation of planetary defense. They will integrate with our militaries, our police forces and even our ranger teams. I know change can very scary, but I implore everyone to put aside petty differences and band together in this time of recovery,"
The President's speech continued, but Tommy turned the television off, as he and Kimberly cuddled in bed. He had gotten his house back, thanks to Bio-Lab taking over and fixing all their debts.
"What do you think is going to happen?" she asked. He sighed.
"I don't know. It's definitely going to be a new era like he said. But it doesn't matter," Tommy replied.
"It doesn't?" Kim asked.
"I have you back, so I know I can face anything," Tommy answered. Kim smiled and cuddled closer, as their lips met in a passionate kiss. The future for the time being was secure, yet still uncertain. But for them and many ranger couples, their love was certain and would allow them to face anything...
One Year Later...
After Ooze's defeat most ranger teams maintained a semi-retired status. The Chosen twenty remained ready for action if the need arises and some teams remained in backup status. But the Overdrive team retired permanently. It was for the best. Will and Dax were in a bit of hot water with their brief siding with Gorbin. Their punishment could have been much harsher, but the others considered their saving of Zoe and actions beyond that point as redemption. It was hard for the government or S.P.D. to prosecute them without ranger support, so all charges against them were dropped with the stipulation that neither ever picked up a morpher again. For Dax, that was preferred. He was on his way to launching a movie career. As for Will, despite his actions, he was still working for hire, testing security systems. He worked for the security division of Bio-Labs now, so his work was monitored closely. In the past, Will might have been offended that no one fully trusted him, but not even he could deny that he had given everyone a reason not to.
Ronny returned to the racing spotlight and she and Will had a tumultuous on again off again relationship that no one was sure was going anywhere.
As for Rose, she returned to teaching, but much closer to Mack this time at San Angeles University. As for Mack, he gladly followed his father on his adventures, happy to finally be included. Their relationship was slowly mending now that there was no longer any secrets between them.
Construction of the new Rock Porium had been successful over the last year and Toby was cautiously optimistic about the future. Briarwood still had a long road to recovery, much like Mariner Bay, since both had been nearly wiped off the map. The forest, thanks to magical help, was sprouting new life and Briarwood was one of the first to welcome alien visitors looking to settle.
"That sign looks amazing," Toby complimented, as Xander and Nick finished hanging it.
"It does. It was really generous of Trent to design it for free," Madison mentioned.
"Yes it was. Now all we need are customers," Chip mentioned, as he looked around the empty store. They could tell Toby was worried.
"I'm sure people will be back to shopping soon," Vida tried to assure him.
"I want to think that, but this city is still in recovery mode. Not many are thinking about buying music right now," Toby said.
"Well...they should be and I think I can help," Tanya said, as she and Adam walked through the door.
"Tanya...Adam...what are you doing here?" Vida asked in excitement.
"Xander called me and said the shop could use a boost and we think we know how to do it," Adam replied.
"How?" Nick asked.
"Kira is kicking off her tour next week in Reefside. She agreed to squeeze in a free concert the next day before her show in LA. We thought if the Rock Porium hosted it, then it would be great for the store," Tanya replied.
"That's amazing!" Vida cheered.
"I...I don't know what to say..." Toby said, nearly speechless. Adam chuckled.
"Just say yes," Adam replied.
"Yes!" Toby agreed.
"Great, we'll get things rolling then. See you tomorrow at the reunion. Make sure you tag along, Toby," Tanya called, as they made their exit
This is an injustice! I was wrongly convicted! My money was stolen!" Malcolm ranted, as he was led from the Courthouse in handcuffs. It was finally over. After a year and a messy trial, Malcolm was found guilty on all charges, including drug trafficking, the murder of several people, spousal abuse and rape, thanks to Kat's testimony, and a slew of other infractions. His sentencing would come next week, but it was expected that he would receive no leniency. Life in prison without parole was almost a certainty for him. It helped though that a year ago, he mysteriously went broke. Once the money in all his accounts mysteriously disappeared, he had panicked and nearly went crazy. For their safety, Kat, Billy, and the children had continued to live at the ranger base on the island. Malcolm quickly used up what money he didn't have in banks between paying his bodyguards, staff, and attorney, plus affording his lavish lifestyle. When that income dried up inside of a month, he started liquidating his assets, but he was quickly penniless. His attorney dropped him like a bad habit, as did his staff and bodyguards. The banks repossessed all his properties and vehicles. If he wasn't a completely deplorable human being, someone might have felt sorry for him. He was forced to request a public defender to represent him in court. And against Kat's attorney, none other than Cassie Chan-Johnson and the federal prosecutors, Malcolm didn't stand a chance anymore. And the once helpless feeling that had plagued Katherine was now plaguing Malcolm. It was the finest example of Karma that any of them had ever witnessed. Billy turned off the television with satisfaction.
"Cassie, I can never thank you enough for representing me and making sure he got what he deserved," Kat said.
"Helping to put that scum away was my pleasure. Besides, him going broke helped a lot too. He deserved it all," Cassie replied, as she hugged her predecessor.
"Oh and this is for you two, as icing on the cake. I called in a favor and got a rush on it," Cassie replied, as she handed her an envelope and left them alone. Kat slowly opened the envelope and took out four documents. The first was their newly acquired marriage license. The new sparkling engagement ring on Kat's finger was the obvious reason for that one. But the other three documents were perhaps even more special. Tears came to her eyes as she looked at both documents. The first was an official document listing Katherine as Trina's legal guardian and formal adoption approval. The third was the same thing, only regarding Aiden. Attached to Aiden's though was his birth certificate. Malcolm's name had been erased and listed him now as Aiden Cranston with Billy as his father. She wasn't sure how Cassie had managed to get through all the legalities and red tape to do it, though she suspected Mr. Collins had probably made a few calls to connections he had within the system.
"Aiden Cranston. I really like the sound of that," Billy said, as he sat down next to her.
"Me too," she replied, as she hugged him tightly.
"I also like the sound of Katherine Cranston," he added. She sniffed and wiped a couple tears away.
"I can't wait and I can't wait for our new little one to get here," Kat said, as she put a hand to the still small bulge in her stomach. Billy grinned.
"You and me both," he replied, as he kissed her tenderly.
"I still feel like I'm dreaming sometimes," she admitted. He smiled.
"Malcolm is never going to see the light of day again and he'll never hurt you or Aiden ever again," he promised, as he held her close.
"Come on, let's go get the kids and get some ice cream. The baby is craving something sweet," Kat said.
"Just the baby?" he asked coyly.
"Okay, so I am too," she replied, as they joined hands and went upstairs to get the kids.
The new CyberStorm complex in Blue Bay Harbor was the city's newest hotspot and quite a sight to behold. Patrons couldn't help but flock to it whether they were interested in extreme sports, wanted a place to work out, socialize with friends or just get coffee and smoothies. There was something for everyone.
Anton Mercer had funded the entire complex and inside and out was designed by Trent. At one time, the aspiring artist couldn't wait to return to art school in New York, but love had a way of changing everything. Trent now attended Blue Bay Harbor's art school and helped Kelly with the business, in addition to working on his own comic series, which was really starting to get a following. Kelly's own factory was still small and growing, but quickly gaining success and recognition with Blake as the lead rider. Carly and Perry were the full time tech and mechanic. Perry had previously always shied away from permanently working for anyone, because in the past, he had been used for his talent and then tossed aside like nothing too many times. But with this group of people, he no longer worried about that happening. Ethan had too turned down the opportunity to work for big technology. Instead, he sold some software to S.P.D. for a lot of money and came to work with Hayley, maintaining the entire business software and hardware. Cam, of course, visited and helped Hayley when he could. They had various employees to help run the coffee/juice bar, a full time cook, several waitresses, and clerks to help run the store component. The final component, the gym, was ran by Rocky and Adam, though Adam's involvement was part time now. They had accepted positions to managed the gym and teach martial arts. Since Aisha's clinic had been destroyed along with many buildings during a battle, they made the decision to move to Blue Bay Harbor for a fresh start. It work well for Adam too, since Tanya's new recording studio was in Reefside, a mere thirty minute commute for him. Aisha was enjoying a little time off, but she would start the process of opening a new clinic in the fall.
Factory Storm so far had quite a showing. But today's big race, pitting Factory Blue's best, including a new pair or riders they were boasting were better than Blake Bradley, against Factory Storm, would earn the winning team bragging rights. For Factory Blue, it would be just another win, but for Factory Storm, it could very well launch them in the industry. It would mean nothing but good media and possible sponsorships. The direction of Factory Storm's future was largely resting on Blake and while he shouldn't have been worried, he was feeling the pressure.
"Dude, you seriously tweaked it," Dustin commented, as Blake nervously paced, while Perry worked on fixing his bike. Blake sighed.
"I know, I overcompensated on that practice lap," Blake fretted.
"I'll say," Perry said, as he held up the twisted part. Hunter took it and effortlessly unbent the metal and handed it back.
"Thanks, I forget you can do stuff like that now," Perry said.
"No problem, but you need to chill, bro," he told Blake.
"He's right. Those new riders that Roger Hanna has don't have your experience," Shane pointed out.
"Or your race record," Hunter added. Blake sighed.
"I know, I just want to show that jerk that dumping me was a huge mistake," Blake replied.
"And you will," Hunter insisted, as he saw Tori pushing the stroller in. She smiled, as she watched his face light up at the sight of them. Shortly after Ooze's defeat, they had received a huge surprise at their first ultrasound and learned they were having twins.
They had thought at first maybe just one of the twins would have the spirit of the Phoenix. But upon their birth, it was confirmed by Ninjor that they had twin Phoenixes for the first time in thousands of years. Though Hunter and Tori knew how powerful they would one day become, they were committed to raising them as normally as possible. They wouldn't shoulder them with duty and responsibility until they absolutely had to. They were blessed with two beautiful children and that's what mattered most to them. Their son Haydn and daughter Briella.
"Hey," Hunter greeted her with a kiss. The twins babbled at the sight of their father and Hunter peered in on them. They were three months old now and discovering their mobility and voices.
"All right, the munchkins are here. They came to see their Uncle dominate the freestyle scene," Dustin said. The twins giggled at their goofy Uncle.
"I doubt they'll know what's going on, but we're here for moral support," Tori replied. Flashing caught their attention from outside, as Roger Hanna arrived and the reporters followed him inside.
"Perfect. His Greatness is here to mingle with the commoners," Blake grumbled.
"Easy bro, he's hyped up his riders, just to psych you out," Hunter replied.
"It's working," Blake commented.
"Well, Factory Storm, the misfits of the Motocross world," Roger commented.
"That's funny, because I remember hearing that Factory Storm is the team to watch," Tori snapped. He shrugged.
"You should have stayed hiding in your hole, because Factory Blue is going to leave you in the dust," Roger boasted.
"Fine, just take your cameras and get out," Shane spat.
"Thank you for the soundbites, Mr. Hanna. This is Janelle Medding for the Harbor news here at the new Factory Storm headquarters, CyberStorm and that was Roger Hanna, leader of Factory Blue. Despite Blake Bradley leading the new Factory Storm, Hanna's newest riders and upcoming stars, Logan Greene and Cory Helms are the favored to win," she reported. At that moment, the twins chose to start fussing.
"CUT!" Janelle cried, as the new parents answered their tiny children's calls.
"Why are their crying babies in my interview?!" she growled.
"Wow...diva much?" Cam drawled. At that moment, Zedd and Rita happened to be coming from the cafe and the smoothie in Zedd's hand "accidentally" splashed all over the reporter.
"You clumsy oaf!" she cried, as Devin and Cassidy arrived to interview Blake.
"That's a great look on you, Janelle," Cassidy commented to her rival.
"Aren't you a little late to the party, Cornell?" Janelle spat.
"No, she's right on time to interview the real star," Devin replied, as he readied the camera to record Cassidy's interview with Blake.
"Oh my gosh...I just saw them last week and they've already grown!" Cassidy gushed, as she doted on the babies. Tori and Hunter smiled, as they held their wriggling children.
"I know. I've been taking so many pictures just to make sure I don't miss anything," Tori admitted.
"They're livewires. You two have your hands full," Devin said. Hunter chuckled.
"Yeah, we're in a lot of trouble when they start walking," he replied.
"Your bike should be good to go now. Just try not to tweak it again," Perry said, as he wheeled Blake's bike up.
"Thanks man, you're amazing," Blake replied, as he shook his hand.
"I better get out there and warm up," Blake said.
"We'll see you out there," Hunter called. Carly stopped him for a moment and kissed him.
"Good luck," she said with a smile.
"Thanks," he replied, smiling back.
Kira watched her fiance from across the field, as he instructed his students. A lot had changed in a year for sure. His soccer camps had become a reality and were so far very successful. Kids that might otherwise be left to their own devices on the streets after school now had a place to go where they were learning more than just how to play soccer. They were learning about teamwork, self confidence, and the accomplishment that hard work would reward you with. She was so proud of him. But her own career was taking off again too. She was on the cusp of releasing her sophomore album and getting ready to go on tour. She was working with the best in the business and Tanya's label was becoming re-established. The pre-order sales alone on her album were exciting and many of her concerts were already sold out.
"Hey Rockstar," Conner said, as he met her on the benches and kissed her tenderly.
"Hey yourself," she replied, as she watched the kids disperse and join their waiting parents.
"Hungry?" she asked.
"Is that a serious question?" he countered. She rolled her eyes.
"You're right, I should know you're starved. I am too, so take me somewhere nice," she playfully ordered.
"Yes ma'am," he mock saluted, as they got into his car. In his seat though was a square shaped item with a big bow on it.
"What's this?" he asked.
"Just the early cut of my new album," she replied, as he removed the bow and he read the title.
"Amber Glow...Kira Ford-McKnight," he read in surprise.
"Like it?" she asked with a big smile.
"I...I love it, but I didn't know, I mean I knew you were going to hyphenate your name, but not on your album," he said in amazement. She smiled and kissed him.
"I want everyone to know," Kira replied. He kissed her back feverishly.
"You know, we could avoid crowds and staring people and just order in," she suggested, as he kissed her neck. He flashed her a smile and started the car, as they hurried home.
They were all on pins and needles, as they watched Blake race neck and neck with Factory Blue's newest racers. He rounded the corner and started pulling ahead, causing their cheers to become louder. On the final stretch, he gained a solid lead and breezed through the finish line.
"And it's Blake Bradley for the win!" the announcer said, as they gathered around their champion.
"He's right, but before we deal with the flood of new customers that will soon storm the shop, I'm treating dinner for us all back at the cafe," Kelly said, as they made their way through the mob of people. Blake had a day of interviews and promotional events ahead of him now, but for tonight, it would be spent celebrating with just friends and family...
The final chapter of Crimson Rising is coming soon!
