'Mr Ho! Will you please try to stay awake?'
Instantly my head jerked upwards, the half-tilted chair completely falling back as I toppled onto the floor. Dazed, I rubbed my head and looked around, only to see everyone laughing and sniggering at me.
'Oh, sorry bout that.' I said automatically, 'It won't happen again.'
The teacher glared at me from his spectacles, magnifing his angry eyes. 'I sure hope not, or you'll be serving a whole week in detention.' With that, he turned away and headed back to the front.
It wasn't before long when the bell rang and everybody started to pack up and leave. Issac approached me as I stuffed a handful of notes into my backpack.
'That was a close one. What's wrong with you anyway? Feeling alright?' he asked in concern.
'Must've been that attack at my house a few days ago. The strangest thing is, I wasn't able to contact or even locate panther anywhere after that. I hope he's fine.'
He gave me a playful punch, as he always did when he wanted to comfort me. 'Don't worry, I'm sure he'll be ok.'
Then suddenly, he glanced at the window and rushed over. 'Wow! Check it out bro!'
Thinking that he saw something strange, I ran over. 'What?'
'The girls are here! You know, for that examination.'
I rolled my eyes as I looked at him. 'So what? You see girls everywhere, what's the big deal anyway?'
Issac grinned but continued to glance. 'This is a boy's school, how often do you see girls around this joint?'
'Even if you did see a girl you like, then what? They're two years older than we are, do you think we'd get a chance to score?' I asked, continuing to roll my eyes, 'I think not!'
This finally persuaded him to stop goggling at them for a moment. 'You mean you're not gonna fall for a girl even if she's gorgous just because she's older than you?'
'That about sums it up.' I nodded.
He faked a phony voice as the girls passed by downstairs. 'Well, excuse me. I've business to attend to.'
Giggling softly to myself, I headed down to the basketball court, which to my delight was empty. Settling my bags down, I started practising my moves.
From blocks to chops, jumps and flips, I seemingly flew around the area. Inside, I knew that the Insectrons were getting stronger and stronger. All I could do now was to prepare myself better so I'd be ready.
The sun was already starting to set when I finished. Thick streams of sweat covered my body as I panted under the dimming sunlight. Walking back to the main campus, I was surprised to see that almost the whole school was deserted.
Not wanting to stay behind too long, I ran off to the gate.
'Ow!'
It was all too late when I realized that there was someone in front of me. With a loud 'thump', a stack of books fell to the floor, including a human body.
In panic, I instantly stopped to a halt. 'Are you ok?'
To my astonishment, I found a girl kneeling on the floor.
'I'm terribly sorry. Didn't see you there, are you alright?' I asked as I knelt down also to pick up the books around the floor.
'Don't worry about it.' She said simply as she stood up.
It was only until then did I get to see her clearly. She was short, with long black hair tied into a ponytail at the back. Somehow, she strangely resembled Kelly.
'Thanks.' She said as I handed her the stack of books. 'You study here?'
Immediately, I broke out of my own daze. 'Oh, yeah. I guess you're here on that examination?'
'You bet. By the way, my name's Amanda. Nice to meet you!'
'Oh, where are my manners?' I laughed. 'I'm Derek. Nice to meet you too!'
Suddenly, I noticed that one of her books had fallen apart in the process when I knocked her down.
'I'm so sorry about your book. Let me buy you a new one.' I said, picking up the pages that had scattered over the place.
She smiled, making herself seem even more like Kelly; the resemblance was simply shocking! 'Oh, it's alright. You didn't do it on purpose.'
I was also amazed at how her character was like Kelly; it was almost as if a clone was standing before me. 'I insist, at least it'll make me feel better.' I half-joked.
At that moment, my morpher started to beep as I quickly shielded it with my sleeve.
'What's that?' Amanda asked, peering down in curosity.
Gotta think of something fast! 'Oh, that's a prototype called Bio-link. It reminds me whenever I'm late for something.'
'Well, you better get going then.'
Quickly, I fished out a piece of paper and scribbled onto it. 'Look, I'm really sorry bout all this. Here's my number.' I said, as I handed over the scribbled note. 'Give me a call anytime and I'll get the book.'
With that I sprinted away and found a small bush. Safely storing away my bag, I wasted no time and morphed.
'Tornado Storm, Ranger Form!'
Cries of pain filled my ears as I landed saftely onto a nearby rooftop. Glancing down, I was surprised to find that a number of civilians were yelling and screaming at the top of their lungs. Looking more closely, I was able to see that their hands had been transformed into some sort of hard-shelled claw.
Fearing that something worse would happen if I didn't act quickly, I jumped down from the roof. A few Insectoids yelled out in surprise as I knocked them down, flipping upward to avoid being diced.
Suddenly, the pawns retreated backwards, their heads bowed deeply. From out of nowhere, a monster in the form of a scorpion appeared, it's pincers clicking menacingly.
Knowing that this would not be an easy opponent, I lashed out my sword.
Grinning with great evil, the creature opened his mouth. 'Violence will not solve the problem, Hurricane Ranger.' It growled, 'I'd take it easy if I were you.'
Scowling, I aimed the blade at him. 'There's only one way to deal with scum like you, my way!'
Shaking his head, the monster clicked its claw. Immediately, the screams around stopped as the civlians gathered behind. 'Attack!' It roared, and before I knew it, all of them ran towards me with incredible speed.
'Get away!' I yelled as they surrounded me, one piling onto the other. It was too late when I realized I had stepped into a trap. With everyone losing their consiousness, I couldn't hurt them even if they attacked.
Aiming my time carefully, I jumped away from the raging crowds, only to be stuck with another. There was absolutely no way for me to fight back!
The scorpion knew this as well as he laughed in triumph. 'Seems that I, Scorpithon will be the one to defeat you, Hurricane Ranger.'
Leaping away from another group of people, I rolled a few yards away from danger. It was clear that I'd had to regroup before planning my next action. Picking up a smoke bomb from my buckle, I threw it to the ground before anyone could get closer.
Using this time, I quickly scaled a nearby building and climbed to the roof. 'Why the heck did those people get infected?' I thought as my nerves began to relax slightly.
All the way home, I kept thinking about the situation, but was surprised to see that I had no way of knowing how to save the civilians. Lying in bed, the truth that I had been outsmarted slowly started to sink in. With endless thoughts coarsing through my mind, I finally dozed off.
It was already daylight when I had woke, my head still groggy with sleep. Flicking on the TV, I was shocked to see that a few dozen people had been infected during night. The news showed a clip of the monster releasing some sort of wave that somehow got the people under his spell. 'Victims are identified to be extremely violent and strong.' The reporter said, 'The police advise that everyone stay indoors and keep doors and windows shut. Also, authorities are seeking the help of the Hurricane Power Ranger.'
Like I could do anything about it, I thought bitterly. For the next few hours, I just stayed at home, not clearly knowing what I should do next. Suddenly, my phone rang, knocking me back to the real world.
'Hi, Derek, it's me, Amanda.' The voice over the line said.
'Oh, hi!' I sputtered, clearly amazed that she'd really call me. 'Sorry about the book, I wasn't able to get it yesterday.'
She laughed slightly, making me think that I said something really stupid. 'Don't worry about it. Anyway, I know a place where the books are a lot cheaper, if you really insist on buying me one, care to come out?'
Alright, she's asking me out, no way! 'Um, yeah, sure thing.'
An hour later, I was standing near Central Plaza, head looking in a new direction every second as I waited for Amanda.
'Hey!' She yelled, running up to me in a huff. 'Sorry I'm late.'
I grinned a little, act cool! 'Nah, I got here early. Didn't think you'd like to come out during these situations. I mean it's kinda scary.'
Still panting slightly, she grinned also. 'Well, they're on the other side of town, I think we'll be safe.'
'I sure hope so!' I joked. They'd better not appear, or I'm really gonna get mad.
Sometime later, we got out of the bookstore, each carrying a stack of books.
'See? I told you they were cheap.' Amanda laughed as we walked down the pavement.
Raising the bag in my hands, I lifted them up. 'I believe you now, just look at my trophies!'
We talked a little more as we continued to walk. Hobbies, interests, almost everything.
'How bout a drink?' She suggested as we arrived at a little café, soft music played from a corner. 'My treat. A little thanks for the book.'
'Sure.' I agreed, heading inside.
No sooner then we sat down, my morpher started to beep again. Peering down, I saw that Scorpithon was right in the area. He must be trying to lure me out, brainwashing more people on the way.
Immediately, I jerked up. 'I think I left something at the store. Will you help me keep an eye on these first?' I asked, gesturing at the bag. 'I'll be right back.'
'Sure, take your time. I'll order first, what do you want?'
'Anything's fine.' I yelled as my feet quickly rushed out the door. Hiding myself behind a huge pillar, I morphed. I may not be able to defeat him, but it's worth a try.
A huge number of civilians were scattered around the scene when I arrived, their pincers deadly and sharp. Behind them, Scorpithon stood.
'Yo! Back off!' I cried as I stood before them.
The monster gleamed at the sight of me. 'I was wondering when you'd show up. Kill him!'
At his command, dozens of people rushed at me. Expertly, I jumped, rolled and dodged, avoiding as much as I could. However, I grew tired soon as more and more of them formed a blockade around me. I was trapped!
'Hahaha!' Scorpithon laughed as I was held still by the civilians. Slowly, he walked up to me, and without warning, lashed out his pincer, knocking me a few feet away.
Another group held me still as I struggled to escape, but failed. Again and again, I was hit by Scorpithon, my powers beginning to weaken.
Releasing his foot, I hit head first into a wooden table. Clearing away the daziness, I realized that I was outside the café, the people inside peering out with fear.
Raising his sting, Scorpithon growled in triumph. 'This is where I destroy you. Say goodbye!'
At that very moment, I closed my eyes, awaiting for death's fatal strike. Suddenly, loud music blasted in the background as I felt the hands around me loosening.
Forcing my eyes open, I saw that the people were somehow reverted back to normal! I was able to strike back once and for all!
'Alright, Scorpithon! Time to take you down!' I growled, twirling the Tornado Spear in my hands.
Filled with surprise and anger, Scorpithon charged as well.
Deafening sounds fired away as our weapons clashed again and again, the speed of our actions so fast they were nothing more but a blur of glinting light.
'Tornado spear, katana mode!' I cried as the spear divided into two parts, narrowly blocking the energy blast Scorpithon fired.
Taking a small step backwards, I threw the swords up into the air. Seeing the creature distracted, I leapt forward and unleashed my ninja blade, slicing it near the mid-section.
Ignoring the cries of pain, I jumped up to retrieve the two airborne weapons. 'Raging Tornado!' With a sear of pure energy, Scorpithon flew back, smoke fuming away from its body.
'You think you've won this round? Think again!' Sneered Scorpithon as it struggled to stand up. With a snap of its pincers, a rumbling shook the ground around me.
Looking up, I was petrified by a nasty shock.
'Panther!'
There it was, my faithful partner, charging onto the scene. Only this time, its mission was to destroy me.
'Activate Tornado Megazord Sequence!' ordered Scorpithon as the zord shifted into warrior mode.
As fast as I could, I jumped up to one of the taller buildings, hoping I'd be able to snap my zord back to its senses.
Waving my arms, I yelled constantly as the zord slowly approached me. 'Panther, wake up! You're under some sort of spell. It's me, Derek! Panther!'
My pleas didn't seem to take up an effect as the megazord kept advancing, until the very last few feet, it stopped.
Gushing with hope, I walked forward. 'Panther! Way to go!' I cheered.
It happened so suddenly I didn't even notice until I felt myself falling. I had been tricked! My body plundged onto the ground as the building collapsed. The impact was so hard I didn't even have the time to flip up as I landed face down onto the rubble.
Trying as hard as I could, I staggered up using every last bit of energy inside. 'Panther!' I yelled, rasing my head up to my partner. 'Please, snap out of it! Remember! Remember all we went through together!'
Still, the huge zord kept on walking. As its shadow loomed over me, I knew that all was lost. Shutting my mind down in dispair, I awaited death as the zord's huge foot prepared to land on me.
Before I could sense what was happening, the same melody from before rang across the area. Carefully, I waited for anything to happen, still mustering enough courage to know what was going on.
'Derek, what's going on?' A familiar voice cried. It didn't take long for me to recognize the voice.
'Panther!'
As if some miracle working its magic, my zord broke out of its spell.
Nearby, Scorpithon gasped in disbelief. 'This is not possible!'
I was already safely secured inside the cockpit when Scorpithon finished. 'Oh yes it is! And it's even possible for us to take you down. Lasers, fire!'
Immediately, the beams shot down from the megazord, fuming the area with smoke. Hoping to see Scorpithon destroyed, I glanced down.
From out the rubble, a crippling Scorpithon emerged, it's body covered with smoke. 'Hurricane Ranger, we'll leave this fight for now.' With that, he vanished into thin air.
'Derek,' spoke Panther, 'I'm sorry. I guess I was too weak. If it wasn't for me, you wouldn't have gotten hurt.'
I gave a small smile at the zord's words. 'Panther, listen. It wasn't your fault, this could happen to anyone. Don't blame yourself, ok?'
Soon after that, I sprinted back to the café, hoping that Amanda was alright. Tables were still upturned, plastic littered the floor as I came up to the entrance.
'Hey!' I called out, seeing her still sitting down. 'Sorry bout that. The police blocked the area and my phone ran out of batteries.'
'No problem.' She grinned, 'But it was so scary back there. Hey! I thought you were going to get the book, where is it?'
Uh oh! Think fast! 'Uh- oh yeah, it was here all along, I remembered when I was walking to the shop.' I blurted out.
To my relief, Amanda didn't ask any further questions.
As we continued talking, my head flew elsewhere. There was clearly someone helping me back there. If it wasn't for that music, I would've lost again. Who was that person?
Could this finally be an ally?
Instantly my head jerked upwards, the half-tilted chair completely falling back as I toppled onto the floor. Dazed, I rubbed my head and looked around, only to see everyone laughing and sniggering at me.
'Oh, sorry bout that.' I said automatically, 'It won't happen again.'
The teacher glared at me from his spectacles, magnifing his angry eyes. 'I sure hope not, or you'll be serving a whole week in detention.' With that, he turned away and headed back to the front.
It wasn't before long when the bell rang and everybody started to pack up and leave. Issac approached me as I stuffed a handful of notes into my backpack.
'That was a close one. What's wrong with you anyway? Feeling alright?' he asked in concern.
'Must've been that attack at my house a few days ago. The strangest thing is, I wasn't able to contact or even locate panther anywhere after that. I hope he's fine.'
He gave me a playful punch, as he always did when he wanted to comfort me. 'Don't worry, I'm sure he'll be ok.'
Then suddenly, he glanced at the window and rushed over. 'Wow! Check it out bro!'
Thinking that he saw something strange, I ran over. 'What?'
'The girls are here! You know, for that examination.'
I rolled my eyes as I looked at him. 'So what? You see girls everywhere, what's the big deal anyway?'
Issac grinned but continued to glance. 'This is a boy's school, how often do you see girls around this joint?'
'Even if you did see a girl you like, then what? They're two years older than we are, do you think we'd get a chance to score?' I asked, continuing to roll my eyes, 'I think not!'
This finally persuaded him to stop goggling at them for a moment. 'You mean you're not gonna fall for a girl even if she's gorgous just because she's older than you?'
'That about sums it up.' I nodded.
He faked a phony voice as the girls passed by downstairs. 'Well, excuse me. I've business to attend to.'
Giggling softly to myself, I headed down to the basketball court, which to my delight was empty. Settling my bags down, I started practising my moves.
From blocks to chops, jumps and flips, I seemingly flew around the area. Inside, I knew that the Insectrons were getting stronger and stronger. All I could do now was to prepare myself better so I'd be ready.
The sun was already starting to set when I finished. Thick streams of sweat covered my body as I panted under the dimming sunlight. Walking back to the main campus, I was surprised to see that almost the whole school was deserted.
Not wanting to stay behind too long, I ran off to the gate.
'Ow!'
It was all too late when I realized that there was someone in front of me. With a loud 'thump', a stack of books fell to the floor, including a human body.
In panic, I instantly stopped to a halt. 'Are you ok?'
To my astonishment, I found a girl kneeling on the floor.
'I'm terribly sorry. Didn't see you there, are you alright?' I asked as I knelt down also to pick up the books around the floor.
'Don't worry about it.' She said simply as she stood up.
It was only until then did I get to see her clearly. She was short, with long black hair tied into a ponytail at the back. Somehow, she strangely resembled Kelly.
'Thanks.' She said as I handed her the stack of books. 'You study here?'
Immediately, I broke out of my own daze. 'Oh, yeah. I guess you're here on that examination?'
'You bet. By the way, my name's Amanda. Nice to meet you!'
'Oh, where are my manners?' I laughed. 'I'm Derek. Nice to meet you too!'
Suddenly, I noticed that one of her books had fallen apart in the process when I knocked her down.
'I'm so sorry about your book. Let me buy you a new one.' I said, picking up the pages that had scattered over the place.
She smiled, making herself seem even more like Kelly; the resemblance was simply shocking! 'Oh, it's alright. You didn't do it on purpose.'
I was also amazed at how her character was like Kelly; it was almost as if a clone was standing before me. 'I insist, at least it'll make me feel better.' I half-joked.
At that moment, my morpher started to beep as I quickly shielded it with my sleeve.
'What's that?' Amanda asked, peering down in curosity.
Gotta think of something fast! 'Oh, that's a prototype called Bio-link. It reminds me whenever I'm late for something.'
'Well, you better get going then.'
Quickly, I fished out a piece of paper and scribbled onto it. 'Look, I'm really sorry bout all this. Here's my number.' I said, as I handed over the scribbled note. 'Give me a call anytime and I'll get the book.'
With that I sprinted away and found a small bush. Safely storing away my bag, I wasted no time and morphed.
'Tornado Storm, Ranger Form!'
Cries of pain filled my ears as I landed saftely onto a nearby rooftop. Glancing down, I was surprised to find that a number of civilians were yelling and screaming at the top of their lungs. Looking more closely, I was able to see that their hands had been transformed into some sort of hard-shelled claw.
Fearing that something worse would happen if I didn't act quickly, I jumped down from the roof. A few Insectoids yelled out in surprise as I knocked them down, flipping upward to avoid being diced.
Suddenly, the pawns retreated backwards, their heads bowed deeply. From out of nowhere, a monster in the form of a scorpion appeared, it's pincers clicking menacingly.
Knowing that this would not be an easy opponent, I lashed out my sword.
Grinning with great evil, the creature opened his mouth. 'Violence will not solve the problem, Hurricane Ranger.' It growled, 'I'd take it easy if I were you.'
Scowling, I aimed the blade at him. 'There's only one way to deal with scum like you, my way!'
Shaking his head, the monster clicked its claw. Immediately, the screams around stopped as the civlians gathered behind. 'Attack!' It roared, and before I knew it, all of them ran towards me with incredible speed.
'Get away!' I yelled as they surrounded me, one piling onto the other. It was too late when I realized I had stepped into a trap. With everyone losing their consiousness, I couldn't hurt them even if they attacked.
Aiming my time carefully, I jumped away from the raging crowds, only to be stuck with another. There was absolutely no way for me to fight back!
The scorpion knew this as well as he laughed in triumph. 'Seems that I, Scorpithon will be the one to defeat you, Hurricane Ranger.'
Leaping away from another group of people, I rolled a few yards away from danger. It was clear that I'd had to regroup before planning my next action. Picking up a smoke bomb from my buckle, I threw it to the ground before anyone could get closer.
Using this time, I quickly scaled a nearby building and climbed to the roof. 'Why the heck did those people get infected?' I thought as my nerves began to relax slightly.
All the way home, I kept thinking about the situation, but was surprised to see that I had no way of knowing how to save the civilians. Lying in bed, the truth that I had been outsmarted slowly started to sink in. With endless thoughts coarsing through my mind, I finally dozed off.
It was already daylight when I had woke, my head still groggy with sleep. Flicking on the TV, I was shocked to see that a few dozen people had been infected during night. The news showed a clip of the monster releasing some sort of wave that somehow got the people under his spell. 'Victims are identified to be extremely violent and strong.' The reporter said, 'The police advise that everyone stay indoors and keep doors and windows shut. Also, authorities are seeking the help of the Hurricane Power Ranger.'
Like I could do anything about it, I thought bitterly. For the next few hours, I just stayed at home, not clearly knowing what I should do next. Suddenly, my phone rang, knocking me back to the real world.
'Hi, Derek, it's me, Amanda.' The voice over the line said.
'Oh, hi!' I sputtered, clearly amazed that she'd really call me. 'Sorry about the book, I wasn't able to get it yesterday.'
She laughed slightly, making me think that I said something really stupid. 'Don't worry about it. Anyway, I know a place where the books are a lot cheaper, if you really insist on buying me one, care to come out?'
Alright, she's asking me out, no way! 'Um, yeah, sure thing.'
An hour later, I was standing near Central Plaza, head looking in a new direction every second as I waited for Amanda.
'Hey!' She yelled, running up to me in a huff. 'Sorry I'm late.'
I grinned a little, act cool! 'Nah, I got here early. Didn't think you'd like to come out during these situations. I mean it's kinda scary.'
Still panting slightly, she grinned also. 'Well, they're on the other side of town, I think we'll be safe.'
'I sure hope so!' I joked. They'd better not appear, or I'm really gonna get mad.
Sometime later, we got out of the bookstore, each carrying a stack of books.
'See? I told you they were cheap.' Amanda laughed as we walked down the pavement.
Raising the bag in my hands, I lifted them up. 'I believe you now, just look at my trophies!'
We talked a little more as we continued to walk. Hobbies, interests, almost everything.
'How bout a drink?' She suggested as we arrived at a little café, soft music played from a corner. 'My treat. A little thanks for the book.'
'Sure.' I agreed, heading inside.
No sooner then we sat down, my morpher started to beep again. Peering down, I saw that Scorpithon was right in the area. He must be trying to lure me out, brainwashing more people on the way.
Immediately, I jerked up. 'I think I left something at the store. Will you help me keep an eye on these first?' I asked, gesturing at the bag. 'I'll be right back.'
'Sure, take your time. I'll order first, what do you want?'
'Anything's fine.' I yelled as my feet quickly rushed out the door. Hiding myself behind a huge pillar, I morphed. I may not be able to defeat him, but it's worth a try.
A huge number of civilians were scattered around the scene when I arrived, their pincers deadly and sharp. Behind them, Scorpithon stood.
'Yo! Back off!' I cried as I stood before them.
The monster gleamed at the sight of me. 'I was wondering when you'd show up. Kill him!'
At his command, dozens of people rushed at me. Expertly, I jumped, rolled and dodged, avoiding as much as I could. However, I grew tired soon as more and more of them formed a blockade around me. I was trapped!
'Hahaha!' Scorpithon laughed as I was held still by the civilians. Slowly, he walked up to me, and without warning, lashed out his pincer, knocking me a few feet away.
Another group held me still as I struggled to escape, but failed. Again and again, I was hit by Scorpithon, my powers beginning to weaken.
Releasing his foot, I hit head first into a wooden table. Clearing away the daziness, I realized that I was outside the café, the people inside peering out with fear.
Raising his sting, Scorpithon growled in triumph. 'This is where I destroy you. Say goodbye!'
At that very moment, I closed my eyes, awaiting for death's fatal strike. Suddenly, loud music blasted in the background as I felt the hands around me loosening.
Forcing my eyes open, I saw that the people were somehow reverted back to normal! I was able to strike back once and for all!
'Alright, Scorpithon! Time to take you down!' I growled, twirling the Tornado Spear in my hands.
Filled with surprise and anger, Scorpithon charged as well.
Deafening sounds fired away as our weapons clashed again and again, the speed of our actions so fast they were nothing more but a blur of glinting light.
'Tornado spear, katana mode!' I cried as the spear divided into two parts, narrowly blocking the energy blast Scorpithon fired.
Taking a small step backwards, I threw the swords up into the air. Seeing the creature distracted, I leapt forward and unleashed my ninja blade, slicing it near the mid-section.
Ignoring the cries of pain, I jumped up to retrieve the two airborne weapons. 'Raging Tornado!' With a sear of pure energy, Scorpithon flew back, smoke fuming away from its body.
'You think you've won this round? Think again!' Sneered Scorpithon as it struggled to stand up. With a snap of its pincers, a rumbling shook the ground around me.
Looking up, I was petrified by a nasty shock.
'Panther!'
There it was, my faithful partner, charging onto the scene. Only this time, its mission was to destroy me.
'Activate Tornado Megazord Sequence!' ordered Scorpithon as the zord shifted into warrior mode.
As fast as I could, I jumped up to one of the taller buildings, hoping I'd be able to snap my zord back to its senses.
Waving my arms, I yelled constantly as the zord slowly approached me. 'Panther, wake up! You're under some sort of spell. It's me, Derek! Panther!'
My pleas didn't seem to take up an effect as the megazord kept advancing, until the very last few feet, it stopped.
Gushing with hope, I walked forward. 'Panther! Way to go!' I cheered.
It happened so suddenly I didn't even notice until I felt myself falling. I had been tricked! My body plundged onto the ground as the building collapsed. The impact was so hard I didn't even have the time to flip up as I landed face down onto the rubble.
Trying as hard as I could, I staggered up using every last bit of energy inside. 'Panther!' I yelled, rasing my head up to my partner. 'Please, snap out of it! Remember! Remember all we went through together!'
Still, the huge zord kept on walking. As its shadow loomed over me, I knew that all was lost. Shutting my mind down in dispair, I awaited death as the zord's huge foot prepared to land on me.
Before I could sense what was happening, the same melody from before rang across the area. Carefully, I waited for anything to happen, still mustering enough courage to know what was going on.
'Derek, what's going on?' A familiar voice cried. It didn't take long for me to recognize the voice.
'Panther!'
As if some miracle working its magic, my zord broke out of its spell.
Nearby, Scorpithon gasped in disbelief. 'This is not possible!'
I was already safely secured inside the cockpit when Scorpithon finished. 'Oh yes it is! And it's even possible for us to take you down. Lasers, fire!'
Immediately, the beams shot down from the megazord, fuming the area with smoke. Hoping to see Scorpithon destroyed, I glanced down.
From out the rubble, a crippling Scorpithon emerged, it's body covered with smoke. 'Hurricane Ranger, we'll leave this fight for now.' With that, he vanished into thin air.
'Derek,' spoke Panther, 'I'm sorry. I guess I was too weak. If it wasn't for me, you wouldn't have gotten hurt.'
I gave a small smile at the zord's words. 'Panther, listen. It wasn't your fault, this could happen to anyone. Don't blame yourself, ok?'
Soon after that, I sprinted back to the café, hoping that Amanda was alright. Tables were still upturned, plastic littered the floor as I came up to the entrance.
'Hey!' I called out, seeing her still sitting down. 'Sorry bout that. The police blocked the area and my phone ran out of batteries.'
'No problem.' She grinned, 'But it was so scary back there. Hey! I thought you were going to get the book, where is it?'
Uh oh! Think fast! 'Uh- oh yeah, it was here all along, I remembered when I was walking to the shop.' I blurted out.
To my relief, Amanda didn't ask any further questions.
As we continued talking, my head flew elsewhere. There was clearly someone helping me back there. If it wasn't for that music, I would've lost again. Who was that person?
Could this finally be an ally?