Disclaimer: The usual, see chapter one. Okay, here we go, second last chapter. This one is a lot darker and I'm messing with canon slightly, but I'm the author and I'm allowed. I have created the concept of Eltaran Rangers to continue on from my last couple of chapters, so all those characters belong to me. Otherwise everything else is fairly straight forward. This chapter is rated PG16 and it's not really for the faint hearted. Mouse, February 2004.
Beginnings : Unexpected Meetings
By Angel Mouse
Andros stared down at the morphed body of his friend.
"Those days were frightening DECA. I came so close to loosing him that day. And two years ago I did loose him."
"You haven't lost him Andros, he is still alive. You must have hope that the cyro chamber will do its job and heal him. He will wake up again." Andros sighed, placing his hand above Zhane's on the glass.
"I know he will DECA. He knows that I can't survive without him. He wouldn't dare leave me alone much longer." Andros gave a tiny smile and nodding once, turned and left the chamber.
"Have hope Andros."
"I do DECA. But sometimes it's hard." Andros padded softly along the passageway heading for the bridge.
"Just think a moment Andros. What would he say in this situation?" Andros gave a soft snort as he sat in his chair by the main panel. Andros thought a moment and then suddenly gave a grin.
"He'd say something along the lines of stop worrying about something you can't change Andros. Enjoy life, have fun and remember to laugh occasionally." DECA's light blinked a couple of times, her version of a laugh.
"Didn't he say something along those lines when you both returned from Aquitar?" Andros thought a moment, the smile slowly fading.
"Yes, he did, once things had settled down. We hadn't had a good experience and I must admit that I was feeling very discouraged when we got home."
"What exactly happened then Andros, you never did say." Andros sighed and closed his eyes a moment, the memories coming back.
"It wasn't the best experience I've ever had with other Rangers DECA." Slowly, hesitantly, he began to speak softly and tell her what had happened.
The two voices rang out through the ship, both of them louder than normal. One sounding frustrated and annoyed; the other, calm and slightly condescending.
"I'm fine. DECA's cleared me, my injuries have healed. I'm in perfect health. Now, let me off this ship Andros. It's been five weeks, I'm fine." The two figures were on the bridge, standing practically nose to nose. One was in a grey uniform with a red shirt underneath and the other in a black uniform with a grey top underneath. The first was Andros, Red Kerovan Ranger and the second, Zhane, the Silver Kerovan Ranger.
"I don't want you to stress yourself Zhane. DECA may have cleared you, and you may have healed physically, but.." Andros paused and Zhane studied him a moment. Zhane reached out and put his hand on Andros's shoulder.
"Andros. I'm fine. Sure, mentally I have a few nightmares now and then, and sleeping hasn't been easy since I've healed fully, but I'm coping. And it helps having you here. But Andros, you can't protect me forever. Just as I've had to learn over the years that I can't protect you forever either." Andros looked his best friend in the eye and then managed a tiny smile.
"I guess I just don't want to risk loosing you Zhane. It scared me more than I care to admit that I almost lost you." Zhane managed a familiar grin, the shadows slowly fading from his eyes.
"Hey, it scared me to. Now, come on. I heard that there's this great new place to eat over on Main Street. My treat." Andros looked at Zhane a moment, his infectious grin, his easy going and much missed lively manner finally breaking through to him. Andros laughed and smiled at his best friend.
"Okay. But it's defiantly your treat." Zhane laughed with him and the two friends left the bridge.
About an hour later they were seated at a private table in a well-lit, small specialist eatery. People were staring at them, but they were used to it. They had ordered a fairly filling, protein rich meal and were enjoying it immensely. Andros looked at Zhane a moment, studying him behind his glass of water. Zhane must have noticed something as he suddenly looked up and saw Andros watching him.
What?
Just thinking is all. A wry smile appeared at the edges of Zhane's mouth.
Sometimes you think too much Andros.
I know. But I can't help it.
So, what were you thinking about this time? Zhane continued to eat, although slightly slower. Andros sipped his water, marshalling his thoughts.
I think I've finally admitted to myself, after what's happened to you, that being a Power Ranger is a lot more dangerous that we both thought.
And you're only just figuring this out now? Zhane's mental was wry and his eyes were merry, as if he had discovered this all along. Andros, defending our planet isn't easy, and sometimes it's going to be down right hard. Saving the universe is also going to be hard, and sometimes, sometimes-bad things happen. But, if we don't do something about it, who will? The plain simple truth of that statement hit Andros unexpectedly and he sat there a moment, examining it. After a moment he looked up at his friend and grinned slightly.
"You know what Zhane, you're smarter than you look." Zhane grinned back at him, his blue eyes twinkling with laughter.
"Thanks, I think." They laughed softly and Andros raised his glass towards Zhane.
"Here's to us. May be continue to fight, live and die together." Zhane raised his glass and clinked it against Andros's.
"Here's to us." They sipped their waters and grinning at each other, tucked into their meal.
The next few weeks were busy for the two rangers, and they barely got any time to spend with each other. But they managed each night to eat together, even if it was late at night. They discussed the day's events and what they had been doing, and decided which of them would attend what crisis the council decided that needed a Ranger's presence. It had been a particularly bad day for them both when they finally both returned to the Mega Ship, tired, grumpy and hungry.
Andros arrived first and headed for the lunchroom, to get something ready for them both to eat. Today he had been in the city while Zhane had to go to the other major city, on the other side of the continent, to examine the new defences that had been put in place there. Andros quickly got out some hot stew and fresh bread, sitting it on the table. Zhane had called him mentally a few moments ago to say he was on his way and should be back in five more minutes. He was getting them both a hot herbal tea when DECA's camera swivelled around to look at him.
"Andros, there is an incoming call from Aquitar for you and Zhane." Andros raised his eyebrow at this.
Zhane, how far away are you?
About thirty seconds, why?
Call from Aquitar for us.
I'll be right there. Andros put the food back into the synethron and headed towards the bridge. On the way there Zhane came out of the hatch and fell into step beside him. Andros glanced at him, noticing that Zhane was just as tired as he was.
"How did it go?"
"Good. They are really well prepared over there. It was a good thing that I went though; there were a couple of minor changes that needed to be done to bring their systems in-line with the main defence systems."
"Good, I'm glad it wasn't a waste of time then." A lot of the things that the council had been sending them on had turned out to be wastes of their time. They reached the bridge and stood together at the main panel. "DECA, open the channel to Aquitar."
"Opening channel now." The view screen switched over to show Delphine standing there, next to her was Phantom Ranger.
"Andros. Zhane, greetings from Aquitar." The two Kerovan's smiled and bowed their heads at Delphine.
"Delphine, Phantom. It's good to see you again. What can we help you with?" Delphine looked at them both and nodded slightly.
"It is good to see you again Zhane, and that you have fully recovered from your ordeal. What I am calling for am to invite you both to an upcoming conference of Power Rangers. It will be held here on Aquitar. Prince Trey of Triforia, the Gold Ranger, as well as the Eltaran Rangers and a representative of the Earth Rangers will be attending. We must plan to combat the increasing attacks by the Alliance of Evil." At the mention of the Eltaran Rangers Zhane stiffened beside Andros but didn't say anything.
Zhane remembered clearly that the Eltaran Rangers didn't seem to like the fact that he had the silver powers for some reason, it was a mystery why they seemed to object to that fact. And also it was their reluctance to leave their planet almost three months ago that ended up with him being almost sold into slavery and coming close to dying from his injuries. So, right now, they weren't his favourite people. Andros glanced at Zhane but saw his friend was restraining himself.
"We'd be honoured to come. When is the conference being held?"
"In two days time. Is this enough time for you to depart and arrive at Aquitar?" Andros glanced at Zhane who had been quickly and quietly doing the calculations. Zhane nodded and Andros read the calculations on the screen. Andros looked up and smiled.
"Yes. We'll leave first thing in the morning and should arrive sometime tomorrow evening, if that's acceptable to yourselves?" Delphine nodded.
"Yes, that will be fine. We look forward to meeting you in person." Phantom nodded at them both and Delphine gave the traditional Aquitian farewell. "Until then." The channel closed and Zhane looked at Andros.
"Well, this'll be interesting." Andros snorted and clapped Zhane on the back, all irritation and fatigue from today's events draining away.
"That's an understatement if I've ever heard one. Come on, let's eat and then get some sleep, I have the feeling the next few days are going to be interesting."
The Mega Ship floated gently into orbit around Aquitar. The blue planet below looked calm and inviting. The two rangers sat side by side at the main controls, Andros piloting and Zhane keeping an eye on the sensors. They didn't want to be surprised by any unfriendliness in the area.
"Pulling into orbit now."
"DECA, open a channel to the Aquitian Rangers.
"
"Channel open." The view screen changed to show an Aquitian Ranger standing there.
"Welcome, I am Aurico, Red Aquitian Ranger."
"Andros and Zhane of KO35. May we have permission to orbit your planet and teleport down?"
"Permission granted. You will be met in the main area. Transmitting co-ordinates to you now."
"Thank you Aurico. We'll see you soon." The Aquitian nodded and the screen changed image again. They quickly closed down the systems they wouldn't need while in orbit. They glanced at each other, making sure they were tidy and neat and suddenly Zhane grinned.
"Come on, we won't get there any quicker. Shall we go?" Andros laughed.
"Keep an eye on things for us DECA."
"Yes Andros." They raised their wrists and hit the teleport button on their morphers and disappeared in streams of red and white light.
They arrived in a central open area that was fairly deserted at this late hour. They glanced around and saw an Aquitian walking towards them. It was Aurico, the Red Ranger they had spoken to a few moments ago. He stoped before them and bowed in the traditional Aquaitan greeting. Andros and Zhane returned it and then he gave a tiny smile.
"Welcome to Aquitar, fellow Rangers. If you'll come this way, the other rangers have assembled in the main hall, for a traditional Aquitian Welcome feast." Andros and Zhane fell into step beside him.
"Are all the other Rangers here already?"
"Yes. Although the Ranger from Earth only just arrived a few moments ago. He has gone ahead with Cestria." Zhane shot Andros a glance.
And I just bet that somehow the Eltaran Rangers make us look bad for arriving last.
Zhane, just watch what you say okay? We don't want to get anyone angry here. Besides, they are fellow Rangers.
Yeah, well, we'll see. Zhane's tone was slightly disbelieving and condescending, but he kept his peace. Aurico led them into a room away from the main areas and in it where gathered their fellow Power Rangers.
"Fellow Rangers, may I present Andros, Red Ranger, and Zhane, Silver Ranger, of KO35." The assembled Rangers all smiled warmly at them and they walked further into the room as some of the assembled Rangers came forward to greet them. The first was Phantom who nodded at both of them and spoke softly.
"I am pleased to see you both again. And particularly you Zhane. I am pleased that you have recovered fully from your ordeal. Always remember that I am in your debt." The look Phantom shot over his shoulder, not that they could see what he looked like underneath his armour, would most likely have melted metal. Andros shook his hand and Zhane grinned at Phantom, clapping him gently on the shoulder.
"Don't worry about it Phantom, I was only to glad to help." The next Ranger to come forward was a young looking man in black and gold. He held out his hand in a traditional Triforian greeting.
"Greetings Andros and Zhane. I am Prince Trey of Triforia, Gold Ranger. I am pleased to make your acquaintance."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, your highness." Trey smiled at Andros's formality.
"Please, just call me Trey. The 'your highness' bit tends to get a tad annoying after a while." Zhane laughed softly and Andros gave a tiny smile.
"Yes, titles can get annoying. It's nice to meet you Trey." Trey shook Zhane's hand and then moved away. Aurico nodded and led them over to where the other Aquitian Rangers were waiting.
"My fellow Rangers, here are the Kerovan Rangers. Andros and Zhane." Delphine stepped forward and nodded.
"It is nice to finally meet you in person. Please, allow me to introduce my fellow Rangers. We have Corcus, the black Ranger. Tideous, our yellow Ranger and Cestro, our blue Ranger. We are honoured that have joined us." Andros nodded and Zhane smiled at them all.
"It was our pleasure, we honoured that you asked us." Delphine lowered her voice and looked at them both.
"We know that the Eltaran Rangers have been asking much of yourselves lately, and after what happened to Zhane, we will be discussing the fair allocation of information gathering activities. But that is for tomorrow. Come, I want you to meet the Ranger from Earth."
Delphine led them towards where a young man was standing in a ninja style uniform talking to another Aquitian. The Aquitian noticed them approaching and saying something softly to the young human she was talking to, she moved away and he turned to him. Andros and Zhane were surprised to see a young man, with sandy blonde hair and blue eyes, dressed in a blue ninja uniform.
"Billy, Blue Wolf Ninjetti Ranger from Earth, this is Andros, Red Astro Ranger and Zhane, Silver Astro Ranger." Billy smiled at them both and nodded his head.
"Nice to meet you both. Zordon has mentioned you both to me a few times. He sends his greetings to you both." Andros smiled slightly.
"Thank you Billy." Zhane laughed and clapped Andros on the back.
"And knowing Zordon, none of it good either." Zhane laughed and winked at Billy, who laughed back. Delphine nodded and looked at Andros
"Andros, the Eltaran Rangers have requested to meet you as well." Zhane immediately stopped laughing and looked at Andros. Andros just raised an eyebrow.
"Not Zhane?" Delphine looked at him, her expression neutral.
"No, they mentioned nothing about him." Zhane raised an eyebrow at Andros and gave him a look.
"It's okay Andros. I'll stay here with Billy and chat to him for a little bit." Andros looked at him.
"You're sure?"
"Yes, I'm sure. If you can, find out what there problem is with me." Andros nodded and moved away, following Delphine. Billy looked at Zhane, confusion in his eyes.
"What's going on? Why would the Eltaran Rangers not like you?" Zhane shrugged and turned to Billy.
"I have no idea. About six months ago, when we first started doing intelligence gathering missions for them, when we told them I had the silver powers, the Red Ranger seemed very surprised about it. And then, about six weeks ago, a mission that they refused to go on went astray slightly and I was almost killed. Andros wasn't impressed with their reluctance to help on that mission." Zhane gave Billy a wicked grin. "I have the feeling after that mission that Phantom gave them a piece of his mind, and now Andros is most likely going to as well." Billy grinned, having just met the Eltaran Rangers and deciding, even though they were one of the oldest Ranger teams, that they were a bit full of themselves. Billy studied Zhane a moment and then laughed softly.
"Well, if it had happened to me or one of my fellow Rangers, my team leader, Tommy, would have done the same. What I wouldn't give to be a fly on the wall for that conversation." The two rangers looked at each other and then laughed.
Delphine led Andros to the last group of Rangers. Before them was the Eltaran Red Ranger that Andros had spoken to before. They paused before them and Andros studied them a moment. There were four other rangers standing behind him and they looked at Andros, their expressions blank.
"Eltaran Rangers, this is Andros, Red Kerovan Ranger. Andros, these are the Eltaran Rangers. I believe you know Kirst, the Red Ranger."
"Yes, we've meet." Andros's tone was barely friendly and if Delphine noticed it, she said nothing, just stood by his side. Kirst nodded in greeting at him and gestured to the other four people standing with him.
"These are my fellow rangers. This is Mards, Black Ranger; Sera, Pink Ranger; Pent, Blue Ranger and Yesa, Yellow Ranger." Andros nodded at each ranger in turn, only Sera, the pink Ranger, gave him a smile, all the rest just returned his nod. Andros turned his attention back to Kirst.
"It's nice to meet the rest of your team. Zhane, my fellow Ranger, is currently talking to Billy, the Ranger from Earth. But I'm sure he'll be honoured to meet you all later on." Andros had kept his eyes on Kirst as he mentioned Zhane's name and was curious at the reaction Kirst had when Zhane was mentioned. It was barely there, but because Andros had been watching for it, he saw it. A barely noticeably flinch but it was there. Forgetting everything else for the moment Andros stepped forward and put his face practically into Kirst's.
"All right, enough of this. What is your problem with Zhane? Ever since you first called us and found out that Zhane has the Silver Ranger powers you've done nothing but looked down your nose at him, and it's also because of your not helping Phantom a couple of months ago that Zhane was almost killed doing a mission you refused! So what in heavens name is your problem?!"
Andros's tone was harsh, hard and quiet, so as not to attract unwanted attention. No one was under any impression other than the Red Astro Ranger was angry. Kirst just stared at him, not answering when Mards stepped forward a moment, confusion on his face.
"What mission are you talking about Andros?" Andros's eyes never left Kirst's.
"About six or seven weeks ago Delphine called and asked one of us to go meet with Phantom to get some information and bring it back. Zhane went and it turned into a trap. Phantom got the information out, barely might I add, to Trey while Zhane stayed behind and distracted them. He was caught and almost killed. Phantom and I rescued him the day Darkonda was about to put him up for auction to the highest bidder. It's taken him almost five weeks to recover. The only reason Delphine asked us to go was because she said the Eltaran Rangers couldn't go. Even though they were spatially closed to Branex than we are." Mards looked at Andros, seeing the truth in his words. His expression became angry and he looked at Kirst.
"Why didn't you tell us that we had been asked to go on this mission?" Kirst looked at Mards and his tone was cold.
"Because I decided we couldn't risk leaving the planet undefended." Yesa stepped forward and stared at him.
"Yet, you were quite happy to leave the planet now. Where has this double standard suddenly come from Kirst?" Kirst just stared at them both and then finally spoke.
"I deal with the other teams in a manner I see fit. My actions and orders are not to be questioned, end of story." He stalked away, to be followed moments later by Mards and Pent. Yesa and Sera came and stood before Andros. Yesa's eyes were confused and she looked at Andros.
"This Zhane, he is alright now?" Andros nodded, confused as to what's happening.
"Yes, he is. Why did he react like that?" Yesa shrugged.
"I don't know Andros. I wish I did." Sera reached over and put a hand on Yesa's shoulder, smiling gently at the other Eltaran woman.
"I do." She turned to Andros and stared at him a moment, her soft grey eyes sad but understanding. Andros looked at her, not really noticing Zhane coming up and standing behind him in silent support. Zhane had felt Andros's anger and confusion from across the room, and had come over to make sure his friend was okay.
"Well I wish someone would explain it to me. Zhane's done nothing to him."
"Except be given the Silver Ranger powers." Sera sighed, lowering her hand from Yesa's shoulder. "You see Andros, Kirst's younger brother – Davon – was meant to be our sixth Ranger, and he was also meant to have the Silver Powers. But three years ago, Zordon decided that they weren't to be his. You see, Davon has turned to the side of evil, but at that time we didn't know that. Somehow though, Zordon could tell if Davon got the Silver Powers, it was be disastrous. And then you and Zhane came along. And for some reason only known to him, Zordon gave Zhane the Silver Powers, turning Zhane into one of two of the most powerful Rangers in the Universe. When Davon found out he wasn't going to be the Silver Ranger, but given other powers instead, he went crazy and that's when we found out he'd turned evil. And ever since that day Kirst has blamed Zordon for his brother's defection. We now know it happened before you got your powers, but something's are hard to forgive Andros." Andros listened in silence, finally understanding where Kirst was coming from.
"But why take it out on Zhane?" Suddenly, Zhane's hand was on his shoulder and Zhane's soft voice cut through the conversation and startled Andros slightly.
"Because it's convenient too Andros. Kirst can't take it out on Zordon, because he's Zordon. But he can take his anger, disappointment and worry about his brother on me. Because I'm here, I'm a constant reminder of what he's lost. Now I understand why, I don't mind." Andros turned slightly and looked at Zhane, glad for his friend's physical support and understanding.
"But it's not fair." Zhane grinned slightly at him, his eyes never leaving Andros's.
"Life's not fair Andros. I thought we both knew that." Zhane's words held a double meaning for them both and Andros nodded finally.
"I know. Thank you for understanding, you don't have to, but I'm glad you do." Andros turned to Yesa and Sera, his expression carefully neutral and his tone now polite.
"Thank you for telling us Sera. You don't have to let onto Kirst you told us. We'll just keep our distance, we wouldn't want to cause him any more pain." Sera gave a tiny smile.
"Thank you Andros, Zhane." The two Eltaran Rangers moved away and Delphine gave a small nod as well.
"I will leave you now." She walked away, leaving the two friends to their own devices. Andros sighed and looked at Zhane.
"Well, we got our answer, but it certainly wasn't the one I was expecting." Zhane nodded in agreement. Just then, the young Aquitian woman that had been talking to Billy stepped forward and raised her voice slightly.
"Rangers, please follow me, dinner is served."
Dinner was certainly an event to be remember. Delphine had obviously had words with who ever organised the seating as Andros and Zhane were at the end of the dining table next to Billy. They found the Earth Ranger engaging to talk to and they listened to his tales of fighting Rita and Zedd with interest. The three of them got into a fairly intense discussion of battle tactics and the best way to destroy foot soldiers which made the time go all the faster.
The meal was sumptuous and each race was catered for. Delphine had opened the meal with a short speech and a then called on Cestria to give them a traditional Aquitian blessing. After that a polite soft buzz of conversation between the assembled Rangers had pervaded the room. The meal had finished and they had moved into a lovely conference room that had been set aside for after the meal. Drinks were sitting on one side and a plate of fruits and nuts for them to nibble on as well.
Zhane, Andros, Billy and Phantom were standing in one corner, chatting quietly and regaling each other with tales of battles fought and generally bragging. Although Zhane was doing the bragging, Andros was looking on with wry amusement. Phantom didn't say much but when he did, it was with a wry understated sense of humour that was much appreciated by the other rangers. Delphine came over to them and smiled nodded a greeting to them all.
"My fellow Rangers, I will escort you to your quarters if you wish to stay on planet, or you can return to your ships if you like?" Andros and Zhane shared a glance and then smiled.
"We'll return to the Mega Ship Delphine, thanks all the same. The Eltaran Rangers are staying here, aren't they?"
"Yes, they are."
"We'd better make ourselves scarce then. Billy, Phantom, would either of you like to stay on our ship?" Billy perked up and grinned, his eyes lighting up.
"I'd love to come and have look around the Mega Ship. Especially since everything you told me." The two Kerovan Rangers laughed and Zhane clapped him on the back,
"We'd love to have you Billy." Andros turned to Phantom and Phantom raised his hand, shaking his head.
"Thank you, but no." Delphine nodded.
"In that case, I will wish you a good evening." Delphine departed and nodding, Phantom did as well. Andros and Zhane sighed, then turned to Billy.
"Ready?"
"You bet." Laughing, Zhane put his hand on Billy's shoulder and nodding at Andros, Andros raised his wrist and spoke softly.
"DECA, three to teleport up." They disappeared in streams of red, white and blue light. They arrived onto the bridge of the Mega Ship and Billy looked around, his eyes wide.
"Wow. This is awesome. I mean, I thought the Zords were advanced, but this, this is so cool! So, what does everything do?" Andros was hard pressed not to smile, so he did but Zhane had no qualms about laughing and grinning at Billy.
"Come on, I'll introduce you to DECA. DECA, this is Billy, Earth's Blue Ninjetti Ranger. Billy, this is DECA, our on board AI."
"Welcome aboard Billy. I have prepared quarters for you." Billy blinked behind his glasses and smiled.
"Thank you DECA. I look forward to having a chat to you." Andros finally gave up and laughed softly.
"But not right now, if you're like Zhane and myself, your exhausted from your journey and having to behave yourself." Billy sheepishly grinned.
"Yeah, I am a bit tired." Andros smiled at him.
"Come on, I'll show you to our guest quarters. DECA, wake up call for 7.30 tomorrow morning please."
"Yes Andros. Good night Rangers."
"Night DECA." The three young men chorused together, causing them to burst into giggles as they walked along the corridor.
The next day did not start out well for the two Astro Rangers. They had a really enjoyable breakfast with Billy on the Mega Ship and the three of them had teleported back down to Aquitar, dressed in their uniforms once more. The rest of the Rangers were assembled and waiting for them and they made their way to secure conference facilities to begin their deliberations.
From the outset, Kirst began to throw his weight around as the leader of the oldest Ranger team present. This caused some raised hackles as traditionally, the leader of a Ranger conference was the team leader of the host planet. Therefore, Delphine should be leading the conference.
After some extremely heated debate, with the three young men from KO35 and Earth staying wisely out of it, a compromise was reached with Prince Trey being chosen to lead the conference. After the seating was rearranged and everyone seemed to be settled, they got down to the task of trying to figure out the enemies plans.
Right away, Phantom bought up the fact that currently, himself and the two Astro Rangers were doing the majority of the information gathering. And even then, he stressed, it mainly himself doing the information gathering. It wasn't until recently that the Astro rangers had joined in to help with the task.
Phantom argued that it would be good for all teams concerned, if they all pulled their respective weights when it came to information gathering. Kirst had jumped straight on that; saying because of Phantom's unique abilities he was perfect for the role of spy and infiltrator. Billy had uncharacteristically piped up at this point saying that it was a bit unfair to expect one Ranger to do all the spying for all the teams.
And if they were willing to relax some of the restrictions placed on the Earth Rangers on letting them off planet, they would be happy to help with the information gathering. Kirst then had vetoed that suggestion before Billy had really even finished voicing it, saying that they didn't have the experience, or the knowledge to go off planet.
When Delphine challenged his decision, Kirst responded by saying that they already had Zordon on planet, and we're actually only Rangers right now due to Zordon begging favours from Dulcea and Ninjor to provide them with their current powers. Billy raised his eyebrow at this and slowly stood up. The young Blue Ranger may not have the experience that the Eltaran Rangers had, but he certainly had his pride.
"I will have you know Kirst, that Zordon begged favours from no-one. Myself and my fellow Rangers went to Dulcea to access the Great Power to save his life. Ninjor then helped us re-forge our power coins so that we could access that power more readily and defend our planet against Zedd and Rita. So, don't you dare say that we don't have the experience, or the knowledge to help ourselves and our fellow Rangers with preparing to face the forces of evil." Prince Trey finally stood and stared at Kirst.
"I will not have another bad word said against any fellow Ranger while this conference continues. If you say another thing right now Kirst, I will throw you out of this conference, but your teammates will remain. We are Power Rangers; we do not squabble and bicker amongst ourselves like children! We'll take a thirty-minute recess. When we come back, I think you owe a few people an apology Kirst." Trey turned and gesturing for Delphine to lead the way left the conference room.
Sharing a glance, Zhane and Andros followed behind Billy as he followed the Aquitian Rangers out. Phantom fell into step beside them and the doors shut behind them. The Eltaran Rangers had stayed put and as they walked away, they could hear voices being raised. Zhane glanced at Andros, a tiny smile at the corners of his mouth.
"Want to bet that when we get back in there, Kirst's gone home?" Andros glanced at Zhane, saw the mirth in his eyes and couldn't help it, he laughed softly. Clapping Zhane on the back he grinned and spoke softly.
"I wouldn't take that bet. Come on, let's see if we can get something to eat or drink around here." Slinging his arm around Zhane's shoulders, Zhane doing the same to Andros, the two friends walked along the corridor, laughing softly and joking with each other. Billy and Phantom just shared a glance and Billy thought he could detect a smile in Phantoms voice.
"Those two have been best friends since they were four. They know each other inside and out. They fight well together, some of the best I have seen in fact." Billy raised an eyebrow, running his hand through his hair.
"Interesting. I didn't know that. Well, this conference isn't going to be boring, that's for sure." Phantom looked at him and gave a tiny laugh.
"No, it won't."
They filed back into the conference room to find the Eltaran Rangers still in there. Kirst had a sullen look on his face and the rest of the team didn't look that happy either. The other rangers took their seats and Trey remained standing. He looked at Kirst.
"Red Ranger Kirst, do you have something you wish to say to your fellow Rangers?" Kirst just stared at him a moment and then slowly rose to his feet.
"I apologise for my behaviour. It was rude of me to dismiss your suggestions out of hand." Kirst sounded like he was grinding out the words. The remaining rangers shared glances with one another and finally Delphine nodded.
"We accept your apology Kirst. Please, let us put this behind us and get on the with purpose of this conference, which is to plan the defence of our worlds." Trey nodded, sitting down finally.
"Agreed. Now, the first thing on the agenda we need to discuss.." What ever else he was about to say was stopped by the beeping of Andros and Zhane's morphers. Trey looked at them both and then nodded. Andros raised his morpher and hit the button.
"Yes DECA?"
"Andros, I'm detecting several ships of an unknown configuration approaching Aquitar at speed." Just then, there was a knock at the door and an Aquitian came in, speaking softly to Delphine. Sharing a concerned glance with Zhane Andros spoke softly.
"Stand by DECA. See if you can get an ID on those ships."
"Standing by." Andros turned and looked at Delphine. Delphine stood and the rest of the Rangers in the room did the same. Without even looking, Andros knew that Zhane was standing slightly behind him. Delphine looked around at them all.
"We know those ships. They belong to the Hydro Contaminators, an evil enemy of the Aquitian people. We have defeated them numerous times, but they still keep coming back. We would ask your aide to help defend our cities. The last time they attacked we were barely able to hold them back." Andros and Zhane didn't even have to think about it as they both stepped forward.
"Count us in Delphine." Billy and Phantom moved to stand next to the two Astro Rangers.
"And don't forget us as well Delphine. After all, it's only fair that we help." Trey smiled, and nodded at Delphine.
"I think you can count all of us in," Trey's smile faded as he looked over at Kirst. "All of us." Kirst looked up and nodded.
"We all will fight." Kirst stood, his team standing with him and looking relieved. Delphine nodded.
"Thank you all Rangers. Please, follow me into our main control area and we'll work out the defence of our cities." The Rangers all filed out and followed the Aquitians through the corridors. Andros spoke softly to DECA.
"Keep an eye on them DECA. They're known to the Aquitians, I'll see if I can get some information up to you. Put yourself in the planets shadow, don't let them see you."
"Understood Andros." The channel closed and the two Astro Rangers found themselves at the back of the pack. Zhane glanced at Andros and then back at the Rangers in front of them.
I know what I said yesterday Andros, about understanding Kirst and stuff, but no way in hell am I fighting side by side with him. I don't trust him an inch. I fight with you and you alone. If Andros was surprised by Zhane's words, he didn't show it. Entering the control room behind the others he quickly squeezed Zhane's shoulder in support.
I know Zhane. I don't trust him either. Don't worry, neither of us will be fighting with Eltaran's Rangers if we can help it. They stood next to Phantom and listened as Delphine quietly explained what the Hydro contaminators do in their attacks and where they usually attack.
By this time, the Aquitians sensors had picked them up and Delphine explained what they were like when they attacked and so forth. They watched as the fleet of ships spilt up into three attack forces, heading for the three main Aquitian cities.
"That is strange."
"How so Aurico?" Delphine moved over to the Red Rangers side.
"They have never spilt their attacks before." Delphine nodded.
"True. Well then, it is just providence that we have our friends with here with us to help us fight." Delphine turned and looked at them all. "Kirst, if you take your Rangers and defend the southern domed city." Kirst studied the map a moment, memorising the position of the city and its defences.
"We will do our best. Ready?" He glanced over his shoulder at his teammates and they all nodded. They then all reached up and tapped the logo that was on their uniform. They were then all encased in the bright energies of morphing and then they were gone. Delphine turned to the others.
"Myself and my team will stay here and defend the main city. Can you others please defend our Eastern City? It is near the Eternal Falls and extremely important to our people." Trey and Phantom both glanced at Andros. As Red Ranger, he was automatically leader of the remaining rangers. Andros stepped forward, nodding.
"It would be our honour." He looked at the others with him. Zhane winked and gave him a bright smile. "Okay, let's do this then." He stepped back slightly, Zhane falling in beside him. They raised their wrists together and as one, spoke. "Let's Rocket!" Moments later they were morphed and standing before the others. Billy grinned and reached for his morpher.
"Blue Ranger Power!" And then there he was, suddenly morphed in his blue and white armour. Trey grinned and produced a staff from somewhere and held it high.
"Gold Ranger Power!" There was a bright light and then he was encased in his black and gold armour. He looked over and Zhane and they could tell he was smiling. "This will be a first. The Gold and Silver Rangers fighting together." They could hear Zhane's grin when he answered
.
"Hey, considering it's us, do we really need these other guys?" They all laughed as Andros got the coordinates from Delphine. Shaking his head Andros came over to stand by them.
"See what I have to put up with all the time." They all laughed and moments later, they teleported to the Eastern City.
Andros ducked the blow aimed at his head and swung his sabre around, slicing the Hydro Contaminator in two.
"He did what?!"
"He attacked Mards and Yesa. The others barely escaped as well. He helped them breach the doom of the southern city but luckily we were able to attend and drive them back. Kirst left with them, leaving his injured teammates. Be careful, we don't where he has gone. Or why he has done this." Andros nodded, absently dodging another blast aimed at his back. Zhane was there and quickly got rid of the attacking monster.
"Understood Delphine. How are the other Eltaran Rangers?"
"Shook up as you can imagine but other than minor injuries, they are okay. Do you require assistance, we could probably spare Tideous."
"No, for the moment we're fine. They seem to be concentrating on us, so for the moment, that's a good thing."
"Understood. As soon as we are able, we will join you."
"Thanks. Andros out." Andros pulled his mind back to the battle they were in. Zhane had been covering his back while he'd been talking to Delphine. They now fell back slightly, watching the others fight. Phantom was taking the monsters out with seeming ease, using his abilities to good advantage. Billy was using a long lance to destroy the monsters and Trey was using his staff. Zhane had his silverier out, slashing and hacking left right and centre, making it look easy.
"What's going on?" Andros sliced another monster as he absently answered Zhane, his voice just loud enough for all the other Rangers to hear.
"Kirst has apparently turned to the other side. He attacked the other members of his team and allowed the Eastern Doom to be breached. The Aquitian Rangers had finished off their battle thankfully, and were able to go to the aide of the other Eltaran Rangers. But Kirst has disappeared, they don't know where." Phantom shook his head as he finished off his current opponent.
"Why doesn't this surprise me? I had suspicions that the enemy was getting inside help, now we know who it was. You know what this means, don't you?" Andros nodded regretfully and Billy came over, ducking and dodging. He looked at Andros, his tone curious. For the moment, they were relatively free of being hassled.
"Well I don't, does it mean?" There was silence a moment and then Andros sighed softly.
"In a little while, once the Power realises that Kirst's heart is no longer good, it won't work for him any more and he'll loose his power. It won't be pretty." Billy thought a moment and then nodded.
"I could imagine that it won't be." The battle intensified suddenly, stopping any further efforts at discussion. Phantom and Trey were fighting back to back and going really well. Billy was helping Zhane and Andros as monsters were swarming them. Suddenly, a blur of red and black light teleported in.
The figure that was almost black now screamed incoherently and charged at Andros. Zhane could see out of the corner of his eye the figure approaching and knew he barely had time to shout a warning. Quickly slashing his sabre through the body of another Hydro Contaminator, he took at a run, trying to reach Andros first. Andros was heavily involved in the fighting, not aware of the danger he was in.
"Andros! Look out!" Unfortunately Andros didn't hear him over the sounds of fighting. Gritting his teeth, Zhane managed to speed up.
Andros vaguely heard Zhane shouting at him and then suddenly, he found himself sprawled onto the ground, a silver figure standing above him, straining against someone. Andros blinked a few times to control the sudden spinning in his head and then began to hear what was going on.
"If you want him, you're going to have to go through me." Zhane's voice was tight and hard. The figure in almost black, vaguely recognisable as a Ranger, answered him. His voice was full of hate and anger and Andros realised it must be Kirst.
"Oh it'll be more than my pleasure to go through you." And then they began to literally beat each other to a pulp. Andros stumbled to his feet, Billy giving him a hand. All the Hydro Contaminators had backed away; scared by the frenzy these two rangers were battling at. After a moment, they left, leaving Zhane fighting Kirst. Trey and Phantom came and stood with Andros. Trey glanced at him, confusion in his voice.
"Should we interfere?" Andros watched the battle a moment – Zhane and Kirst were trading blows almost faster than the eye could see – and shook his head.
"No. They are so involved and consumed with the fight, if we go blundering in there, it could prove fatal for Zhane." Silence reigned a moment and Billy finally broke it.
"I hate to be the spoilsport here, but Kirst is a Power Ranger – surely he wouldn't try to injure or kill Zhane, would he?" Andros shrugged.
"I don't know. But a Red Ranger that injures two of his team and then leaves them to be killed by the enemy, somehow, I don't think remorse for killing another Ranger will make up a factor in this fight." Billy fell silent, and they all watched with baited breath, loathe interfering in case they made matters worse.
Kirst slashed at Zhane's chest and he barely blocked it. Zhane countered with a kick to Kirst's chest and a follow up slash to the head, which Kirst dodged.
"Give it up Kirst, you can't win! Surrender! I don't want to hurt you!"
"You already have you thief! At least this way I can be with my brother, and I'll take you from yours!" Kirst's attacks increased in frenzy and Zhane took a slight step backwards, but not for long. He parried the flurry of strokes and began to slowly push him back.
"I don't have any family Kirst. I only have Andros. My team mate. You have abandoned and almost killed yours! You don't deserve to be a Ranger!"
"You take that back!" Kirst was screaming in rage now. He slashed at Zhane and caught him in the chest. Zhane staggered back and quickly raised his sabre to stop the next blow. Striking out with it he slashed at Kirst so hard that he ruptured Kirst's protective armour.
"No! A Ranger doesn't kill his own! A Ranger protects his friends and his teammates! A Ranger doesn't turn to the side of evil!" With each of these pronunciations, Zhane's sabre slashed at Kirst's weakened defences, cutting through the weakened armour and actually drawing blood and breaking bones.
"You took my brother away from me! I'm going to kill you!" Kirst tried to fight back, he truly did but the Power was leaving him and Zhane was just the stronger fighter. Zhane blocked his blows and just shook his head.
"I didn't take anything away from you Kirst. I'm sorry you feel that way." Zhane began a series of strokes that drove Kirst backward with their ferocity, which ended up with Kirst falling onto the ground; finally, Zhane lifted his sabre and looked at Kisrt. "I don't want to do this Kirst, please, give up now." Zhane's voice was soft, almost pleading with Kirst. Kirst growled his defiance and staggered to his feet. By now he had no armour left, as the Power had finally left him. His face was a mask of hate and anger and he gripped the sword that he had picked up.
"No. I will join my brother and I will make you pay!" With that he charged, sword raised and Zhane had no choice. Kirst's charge was aimed at Zhane's heart and Andros gasped, taking a step forward.
"Zhane! Defend yourself!" But Zhane was ready for Kirst. Kirst raised the sword and swung it down hard but Zhane blocked it, spinning around and slashing at Kirst. Kirst's defences were non-existent and the sabre slashed through his chest. Blood sprayed outwards, splattering Zhane's armour.
Kirst just seem to slowly stop and then fell to his knees, moments later collapsing on the ground. Zhane knelt down next to him, removing his helmet and picking Kirst up, holding him against his chest. Andros and the other Rangers came running over and skidded to a halt just behind Zhane. Zhane's expression was sad but his face was firm, resolved.
"I'm sorry Kirst. You gave me no choice." Kirst coughed and blood began to seep from his mouth.
"I know. I'm sorry I made you do it. I see now that you were right….that you both were." Zhane looked at him, his blue eyes full of sorrow and pain but for the moment, he let Kirst speak. He could tell that the former Red Ranger didn't have long left to live. "Zordon was right you know…."
"About what?" Zhane somehow managed to keep his voice steady, but Andros could feel the pain and agony in his friend's soul.
"You are better suited for the Silver Powers….he choose well. Protect your team mate Zhane…." The light in Kirst's eyes faded and they closed. His chest stopped rising and with one final sigh, he died. Swallowing hard, Zhane gently lowered him to the ground.
"Thank you Kirst. I will." Zhane picked his helmet up and absently stood up. He looked over at Andros and Andros gently put his hand on Zhane's shoulder.
"Are you alright?" Zhane shook his head.
"No. And I don't think I'll ever be again. Andros, can you?" Andros nodded, knowing what Zhane was referring to.
"Yes, I'll take care of things down here. You go back to the Mega Ship, I'll be there shortly." Zhane nodded his eyes troubled and sad. He stepped back and suddenly disappeared in a stream of white light. Andros turned to the other three Rangers. All of them except Phantom had their helmets off and were looking at him.
"This was a terrible day. We'll take Kirst's body back to the main dome. You all saw what happened, Zhane was not a fault." Billy nodded and glancing at the others, they all were in agreement.
"Yes. We'll explain it to the other Eltaran Rangers. What Zhane did was purely self defence." Andros nodded, relieved that the other Rangers saw it that way. As one, the four remaining Rangers moved over to their fallen comrade's body to carry out their sad task.
After what seemed like hours, Andros teleported finally back to the Mega Ship. There had been numerous questions by Delphine and the other Eltaran Rangers. But in the end, Zhane had been cleared of any wrongdoing. The testimony by Phantom, Trey and Billy had cleared that up fully. Delphine decided that the conference was over, they couldn't continue after this had happened.
Billy had said his farewells to Andros and the others, teleporting back to Earth. Trey and Phantom had left together, saying that they had some plans they needed to go over for the defence of the Triforian system but would be around if needed. Delphine and the other Aquitian Rangers had thanked them all for attending. They would escort the remaining Eltaran Rangers home. Andros had agreed with that and took his leave, advising Delphine that he and Zhane would head back to KO35.
Andros wearily made his way to Zhane's room. Over the last hour or so he had tried at various times to contact Zhane mentally, but Zhane was blocking him. But Zhane couldn't block out the emotions he was feeling and Andros could clearly sense that Zhane was feeling remorse, anger, self-disgust and horror at what had happened.
Andros made his way to Zhane's room to find the door locked, but getting DECA to override it, he went in. His best friend was curled up in to a little ball on his bunk, not moving. Andros went over to him and sat down on the bed, gently putting his hand on Zhane's back.
"Zhane, are you okay?"
"Go away Andros." Zhane's voice was dull and lifeless, and that frightened Andros.
"No. You're hurting Zhane and in pain, I want to help you."
"No one can help me now Andros. I killed him." Andros knew he had to head this off now. If Zhane became too caught up in self-loathing and remorse, he would be useless in a fight. And he would be lost as a friend to Andros. And no way would Andros let that happen.
"Kirst said it himself, he gave you no choice Zhane."
"I know that Andros. But it still doesn't change the fact I killed him."
"Yes, you did Zhane. But you had no choice; it was either him or you. And speaking for myself, I'm glad you're still here." Zhane finally stirred and turned over, looking at Andros. Andros was startled by the amount of pain in Zhane's eyes. It was understandable really, but what Andros couldn't bare was the fact that Zhane seemed so lost.
The one thing that Andros loved about Zhane was that no matter what he went through, there was such an air of innocence around him sometimes. But now that seemed to be lost as well. Without thinking, Andros scooted closer to Zhane and gently pulled Zhane up until he was sitting next to him.
He stared hard into Zhane's eyes for a long moment, and after a little while, Zhane's eyes finally focussed on Andros. Andros gave him a tiny smile, reaching up and gently putting his hand against Zhane's cheek. When Andros spoke again his voice was soft and full of love.
"Zhane, I would rather have you at my side than the entire universe. You're my best friend and I know what you did today, you did protecting me. I'll never forget that, thank you." Zhane just looked at Andros for a long moment, his eyes locked with Andros's. The pain was still there, but something else as well.
Understanding seemed to be in their depths, and finally, a little bit of life. Zhane swallowed against the lump in his throat. After a moment he found his voice, the tinge of hopelessness was finally gone, and there was a tiny little bit of life in it.
"I would do anything for you Andros. I'd die for you if I had to. You're my best friend." And with that simple statement, Zhane finally broke down and began to cry, clinging to Andros. Andros wrapped his arms around Zhane and held him close. The sobs racked Zhane's body and all Andros could do was hold him and be there for him. And for the moment, it would be enough.
In our next chapter, things begin to heat up for our friends and one of them makes the ultimate sacrifice for the other
