DISCLAIMER: Don't own them, someone else does! The character of Matthew,
Tommy's father is my property, please ask if you wish to use him. This
story is AU.
A Child for Us All Five
Tommy woke well before the rest of his friends, having fallen asleep hours before they all went to bed. The morning was cool and peaceful, with the suns ray's just peaking through the blinds in the DeSanto's entertainment room. Although he still felt tired, he was wholly awake, and knew that further sleep would only do ill. This knowledge was brought from previous experience and his father's insistence that people should sleep the same amount of hours each night, no matter what. He rolled out of his blankets and glanced down. Someone had managed to change him from his clothes to his 'P.J's' which were essentially an old t-shirt and lose track pants. Barefoot, he walked silently to the kitchen where the damage of last night's pizza remained, and the antibiotics that Zordon gave him sat. Picking the container up, he realised that Zordon had not instructed him on the dosage.
'Well Zordon wished for my health care to improve, I guess asking him how I'm meant to take these wi.... Aw no!" Tommy quickly activated his communicator. "Zordon, can I talk to you?" his urgent request was heard and the teen was teleported as a response.
Tommy's vision cleared and the cool of the Command Centre was felt through his typical bed clothes. Without waiting for greetings he blurted out "How can Kimberly have this child without a doctor?"
"BE CALM TOMMY. I FEEL WE WILL NEED TO ENTRUST YOUR IDENTITIES WITH A DOCTOR OF OUR CHOOSING, TO MAKE YOU'RE CHILD'S ENTRY INTO THE WORLD AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE." Zordon sounded like he had already thought this through.
Tommy stood there, poleaxed. "Is that it? It's that simple? I just walk up to a doctor and say, hey I'm a power ranger, don't tell anyone and I need to you deliver my child?" His reply to Zordon's solution was a tad on the sullen side, but he really didn't care about that. Tommy had first hand experience that if a doctor could get their hands on the rangers, they would never leave the research facility.
Zordon remained silent, waiting for the 'eldest' of his 'children' to make a quiet apology. He understood the stress that Tommy was currently under, yet he was not going to tolerate rudeness when he was simply trying to help. The apology was not forthcoming, and the leader of the power rangers continued to stare at his mentor, unabashed by his comments.
"THOMAS" Zordon began. Tommy flinched; to be called by his formal name meant he was in for it. "I UNDERSTAND THE STRESS YOU HAVE BEEN UNDER, AND THAT YOU ARE CURRENTLY SUFFERING FROM ILLNESS BUT I WILL NOT TOLERATE THIS ATTITUDE FROM YOU, I WISH ONLY TO ASSIST YOU. YOU WILL SIT DOWN, NOW" Tommy sat, not bothering to look behind him for the chair he knew would be there, one didn't argue with Zordon when he took that sort of tone. He also ignored the questioning presence of Billy within his mind; you didn't brush Zordon off to let someone know you were okay either. So Billy remained as the silent witness.
"AS I INFORMED YOU YESTERDAY, I AM FULLY AWARE OF THE STRESS YOU ARE UNDER. THIS DOES NOT EXCUSE ABUSE OF LEADERSHIP OR UNNECESSARY RUDENESS." The mentor of the power rangers decided that it was time Tommy received a quick wakeup call that he wasn't the only one on the planet who had worries. "YOU MUST BE AWARE OF OTHERS WORSE OFF THAN YOURSELF YET NEVER COMPLAIN OR CAUSE STRIFE, THEY SIMPLY CARRY ON TO THE BEST OF THEIR ABILITIES. THERE ARE OTHER HUMANS IN THE WORLD WHO HAVE FOUND THEMSELVES IN YOUR SITUATION, AND I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THERE WILL BE MORE AFTER YOU. RUDENESS WILL NOT GET YOU FAR TOMMY, PARTICULARLY IN THE EYES OF THOSE WHO LOVE AND CARE FOR YOU." To receive one 'telling-off' from Zordon was bad enough; two in less than 24 hours was near unbearable. Tommy was sitting in front of him mentor, his eyes involved in a careful study of his shoes. Alpha has wisely retreated to the back of the room, remaining out of the firing line. A red flush had crept upon Tommy's face as Billy silently agreed with Zordon.
I think this is where you make your apologies Tom, and begin to ask constructive questions Billy's sarcastic comment stung Tommy, letting him know just what he thought of the treatment he gave to the father figure to the ranger team.
Tommy was also mentally kicking himself. He just wanted to be rid of responsibility for a short period of time; fatherhood was a scary concept to someone who was still in his teens. He was tired and fuzzy, thanks to his viral infection and scared of the months ahead. The rudeness to Zordon was more of a cry for help than real resentment. The teen sighed and quietly gave his apologies.
"I am sorry Zordon. I'm not quiet sure why I acted like that. It's jus...." Tommy trailed off, unsure how to voice his feelings and sorrow.
The mentor of the Power Rangers softened at the sight of his charge looking small and unsure. He knew that Tommy's actions were not true to the boy's character, but something needed to be done to alter the teen's perception of his current situation. "AS I HAVE SAID, I UNDERSTAND YOUR TROUBLES AND WILL ACCEPT YOUR APOLOGY. YOU WILL FIND SOMETHING TO EAT BESIDE YOU, YOU NEED TO TAKE THE ANTIBIOTICS THREE TIMES A DAY WITH FOOD, I SUGGEST YOU COMMENCE THE COURSE NOW. YOUR FATHER IS A DOCTOR, I FEEL THAT HE WOULD BE THE MOST LOGICAL CHOICE, AND POTENTIALLY THE MOST TRUSTWORTHY."
Tommy looked started as he started to eat the breakfast given to him. "My father? Zordon are you cra... I mean, are you sure?" The white ranger knew that if his father knew of his 'day job' then he would never hear the end of it. He also knew that he'd better watch his mouth around Zordon at the moment, a sedative and wake up lecture wasn't something he wished to face.
"YES, YOUR FATHER TOMMY. YOU KNOW YOU CAN TRUST HIM TO HELP KIMBERLY AND KEEP OUR SECRET. IT WOULD ALSO BE WISE TO HAVE A DOCTOR WHO CAN KEEP 'NORMAL' RECORDS FOR YOU SO THAT FUTURE SUSPICION IS NOT RAISED OVER YOUR LACK OF TREATMENT." Zordon didn't need to add that his white ranger was slightly accident prone, and there are only so many excuses that sound plausible to parents when their child does not come home for the night.
Tommy sighed and ate the last piece of toast, he felt, light he couldn't quiet explain it. Then he realised, "You drugged me, why?" Zordon's explanation was lost as he fell into unconsciousness.
"AYE, AYE ZORDON, WHY?" Alpha quickly made his way to the white ranger and teleported him to the infirmary.
"THE ILLNESS IN TOMMY'S BODY WILL NOT RESPOND TO TREATMENT IF ITS VICTIM IS PLAGUED WITH WORRY AND STRESS THUS TOMMY UNCONSCIOUS WILL ALLOW ME TO PROCESS A HIGHER DOSAGE OF TREATMENT THROUGH HIS SYSTEM WITH GREATER RESULTS. I ALSO FEEL THAT ROCKY AND ADAM SHOULD CONTACT TOMMY'S FATHER. THE DOCTOR CAN THEN FAMILIARISE HIMSELF WITH THE RANGERS CHANGED PHYSIOLOGY THROUGH HIS SON." Zordon contacted the remaining rangers, who had just awoken to Billy's frightened cry of 'Tommy', brought on from the sudden loss of contact.
The rangers quickly teleported into the main chamber, with the exception of Billy who diverted to the infirmary where Tommy was held, they then waited expectantly for Zordon to speak. "RANGERS, TOMMY IS SAFE YET I HAVE PLACED HIM INTO UNCONSCIOUSNESS TO TREAT HIS VIRAL INFECTION. TOMMY CAME THIS MORNING TO ASK HOW KIMBERLY WAS GOING TO CONTINUE THROUGH HER PREGNANCY WITHOUT A DOCTOR. AFTER SOME THOUGHT I FEEL IT IS BEST TO ALLOW A CIVILIAN DOCTOR ACCESS TO OUR SECRET. THIS SHALL SOLVE SEVERAL PROBLEMS. I HAVE CHOSEN TOMMY'S FATHER AS HE CAN BE TRUSTED. ROCKY AND ADAM SHALL TELEPORT MORPHED TO DOCTOR OLIVER AND BRING HIM HERE." Billy heard the last of the instructions as he walked into the room.
"Are they to tell him anything before teleportation?" His face looked tired, echoing his leaders.
"NO BILLY, JUST THAT THE RANGERS HAVE NEED. THE REMAINING RANGERS SHALL WAIT HERE MORPHED." Zordon waited for his second in command to give the order.
"All everyone, we know what to do. IT'S MORPHIN TIME!" The rangers morphed and Rocky and Adam teleported out, leaving the others to bide their time.
Dr. Oliver worked at Angle Grove Hospital, a place his son had never seen as a patient. That in itself was abnormal due to Tommy's dedication to the martial arts. He had some private rooms where he saw his outpatients, yet the majority of his time was spent in the wards, making him difficult to locate. The two power ranger's teleported to the information desk and asked the rather flustered nurse where they could find Dr. Oliver. A page was put out and Tommy's father strode into the room minutes later. Tommy and his father were very alike in looks. Both had the soulful brown eyes and tanned skin. One of the main differences between the two was Tommy's hair was long, and Matthew Oliver's hair was short. He was also the source of his son's capacity to melt peoples hearts with a single 'little lost boy' look. Tommy's temper and aversion for doctors was bequeathed upon him through his uncle. This made life interesting in the Oliver household. His eyes widened in surprise when he saw the two rangers. "How can I help you?"
"Dr. Oliver, we have need for your assistance, will you please come with us?" The Black ranger was polite and well spoken.
"Certainly, let me get my bag." Dr. Oliver started towards his rooms, one didn't argue with those who fought monsters on near daily basis. The Blue ranger stopped him, "Ahh, that won't be necessary." Blue pressed his morpher and all three disappeared.
When the doctor's vision cleared, he found himself surrounded by the remaining ranger team, including the other blue ninja ranger. Their leader was missing however. "WELCOME DR. OLIVER, I AM ZORDON MENTOR TO THE POWER RANGERS." Dr. Oliver turned towards the source of the voice and nearly fainted, there was a dismembered head talking to him!
"Nice to meet you Zordon," Matthew was proud that his voice remained steady. "I understand you have need of my services."
"I WISH TO FIRST TELL YOU THE FULL HISTORY OF THE POWER RANGERS. WHAT I AM ABOUT TO TELL YOU IS ONLY KNOWN ON EARTH BY PRESENT AND PAST POWER RANGERS, ALPHA FIVE AND MYSELF." A small robot waved by way of introduction, from his hiding place behind the pink ranger. Zordon began the story of the rangers, omitting any identities until he had completed the tale. "RANGERS, PLEASE REVEAL YOUR IDENTITY TO DR. OLIVER" The Power Rangers slowly moved their helmets. Dr. Oliver was astounded to see teens that were close friends of his sons, and past patients of his.
"This is why you don't get sick anymore!" Zordon had told him of the advanced healing the rangers now held. "But where is your leader, the white ranger? Is it he that needs my assistance?" Then it dawned to him that his own son wore white, and this group of teenagers was Tommy's closest friends. "Oh my god, is Tommy okay?"
"PLEASE DO NOT BE ALARMED. TOMMY IS INDEED THE WHITE POWER RANGER AND LEADER OF THE TEAM. HE IS NOT IN ANY DANGER, SIMPLY SUFFERING FROM A VIRAL INFECTION. YOU WILL BE TAKEN TO HIM SHORTLY. YOU ARE AWARE OF KIMBERLY'S CONDITION?" Zordon reassured the doctor.
"Yes I am, but what do I have do with this?"
"DUE TO THE RANGERS CHANGED PHYSIOLOGY THEY ARE UNABLE TO VISIT DOCTORS. ALPHA AND I ARE CAPABLE OF TREATING ALL ALIMENTS. KIMBERLY'S PREGNANCY IS KNOWN BY SEVERAL CIVILIANS AND TREATMENT BY ME AND ALPHA WOULD RAISE SUSPICION. THE RANGERS NEED A DOCTOR WHO CAN BE TRUSTED WITH THEIR SECRETS, AND TO TREAT KIMBERLY AND THEMSELVES FROM TIME TO TIME TO AVOID SUSPICION. WOULD YOU BE WILLING TO TAKE THIS ROLE?"
"I'd be honoured Kimberly. I accept and promise to keep the identity of you all a secret." The doctor spoke with warmth and his voice held traces of slight shock.
"THANK YOU DOCTOR OLIVER. ALPHA HAS MADE A COMMUNICATOR FOR YOU IN EMERGENCIES. THE RANGER'S WILL NOW TAKE YOU TO TOMMY. I HAVE PLACED HIM INTO UNCONSCIOUSNESS TO HELP FIGHT HIS VIRAL INFECTION. I WOULD ASK YOU TO TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH THE CHANGES IN YOUR SON, SO YOU CAN APPLY THEM TO ALL OF MY RANGERS." The doctor nodded, impatient to see that his son was safe. The ranger team lead the way to the infirmary, where Zordon appeared in his time warp tube. Tommy was laying on one of the med beds, still in his bed clothes.
"Zordon, something is hurting him" Billy sat down quickly on one of the other beds, holding his side. The mage quickly explored Tommy's body; the virus was attacking one of his lungs. He increased the dosage of the medication, which had instant effect. His father quickly made his way to his side and placed a hand on his son's head.
"How did you know that Billy?" The doctor was curious and slightly alarmed to see that Billy shared the slightly fevered look that Tommy had. Billy looked at Aisha and then closed his eyes.
You tell him, I am really not in the mood for people in awe over me at the moment. The yellow ranger filled the doctor on the link between Billy and Tommy. "Ahh, I'll want to explore that later, for now however." Dr. Oliver set to examining his son, noting the changes that the power had given him. He was amazed at the technology the rangers had, tools to operate with that showed the inside of the body, the med bed that gave out stats on injuries, rate of healing and other health stats and other medical technology that earth had yet to dream of. He saw that the virus in his son was nearly beaten, and his son's healing rate was off the scale. As a doctor and a father, Matthew was well aware of his sons' body, becoming a ranger had increased his sons' strength and stamina in more ways than one. The doctor turned and walked over to Billy, who sat among his friends looking tired.
"May I examine you Billy?"
The blue ranger looked at the doctor carefully. "Why? There is nothing wrong with me." The blue ninja ranger shared Tommy's aversion to doctors, something that both Zordon and Dr. Oliver were aware of.
"BILLY, THE DOCTOR NEEDS TO FAMILIARISE HIMSELF WITH YOU ALL. YOU ARE THE LOGICAL CHOICE AS YOU ARE LINKED WITH TOMMY." Zordon made it clear that Billy was to cooperate.
"If it makes you feel any better Billy, I'd like to have a look at everyone, so I know what I'm working with. If the others wouldn't mind waiting, I'll see you all alone, with the exception of Tommy laying here." Dr. Oliver quietly made his authority known and that he planned to take this new position seriously. His son would be getting a lecture later on however. The ranger team complied with the doctor, grateful that it wasn't their turn next. After having Zordon and Alpha as doctors, they were a little nervous at visiting a human one.
"Okay Billy," Matthew said as the rangers left, "how bout you lay down for a bit, I think Tommy is rubbing off on you." Dr. Oliver was captivated towards the mental link between the two teens, and wanted to explore it further.
"The link you two have, it transmits feelings and conditions?"
Billy looked nervously at the doctor. "Yeah, when one of us is sick or hurt, the other will feel some of that. But our thoughts and feelings are felt exactly as they are experienced. We know where the other is the majority of the time. Tommy is a passive telepath; he can only communicate through our bond. I'm a full telepath, meaning I can communicate with all and pick up on thoughts when I want." As Billy fully lay out on the med bed, his stats appeared on the screen beside the bed.
The doctor talked aloud as he worked. "You all have similar rates of healing, but it seems different area's heal faster between you and Tom." Billy nodded he was started to get a headache; sleep would have been nice for awhile, with no doctor's prodding him. This is why we don't go to a doctor. the teen couldn't help feeling slightly grumpy.
BILLY, YOU KNOW WHY THE DOCTOR IS DOING THIS, PLEASE COOPERATE I DON'T NEED YOU AND TOMMY OUT OF SORTS the ninja jumped; sometimes he forgot how he could communicate with other's so easily. The doctor noticed his jump.
"Are you okay Billy? Is something hurting you?"
Billy shook his head. "If you check that screen, and go through the different functions you will be able to see what I'm feeling and why, how my bodily functions are rated, if I have any injuries, illnesses or spells over me and what are my normal body functions. We have these so we can help people or beings that can't communicate their pains and abilities to us." Billy closed his eyes as the doctor flicked through the information screens, he gasped as a cold stethoscope was placed on his chest.
"Sorry Billy, I just can't believe your heart rate is so slow, this is amazing!"
"Thanks" Came the dry reply. Unknown to Billy, the doctor blushed.
"Okay Billy, like you said you're just mirroring what Tommy has. Thanks for that can you go and get someone else? Oh, before you do, can you show me your talent?" Matthew thanked Billy, refraining from telling him to take it easy, if he was anything like his son it would fall on deaf ears.
No problem Doc. I'll get Rocky for you shall I? His capacity for food will amaze you. with that blatant display Billy exited before Zordon could tell him off. Dr. Oliver just stared after him in astonishment.
Through the rest of the morning, the doctor saw the remaining rangers and made a formal appointment for Kimberly. He was just finishing his tour of the entire facility when Billy informed them that Tommy was waking up.
The group reassembled to the infirmary as Tommy opened his eyes. "No fair Zordon, putting drugs in my breakfast." He grumbled as he sat up. "Don't be silly Billy, Dad can't be here, I think the virus has got to you too." Dr. Oliver looked at the teens which treated this as normal. He wasn't quiet used to his son as a Power Ranger and a telepath to boot. Just then the white ranger laid eyes on his father.
"Oh shite."
"Tommy that sort of language is not called for." The doc scolded him. "How are you feeling and yes I know and yes you are in trouble later."
"The bed will tell you how I'm feeling and I know you know and how can I be in trouble when I'm protecting the planet?" Tommy obviously hadn't improved his earlier mood.
"TOMMY, I BELIEVE WE HAVE ALREADY HAD A DISCUSSION ABOUT THIS ATTITUDE, SHALL I REPEAT IT IN FRONT OF YOUR FATHER?" Zordon quickly put a stop to a repeat performance. The leader of the power rangers shrank back from the threat. Dr. Oliver was interested to see that the rangers had a father/child relationship with their mentor, making Zordon a power ally. "DR. OLIVER HAS CONSENTED TO HELP US FROM THIS POINT FORWARD."
"The virus is gone, I feel okay I guess." Tommy gave the quiet reply to his father. He stood up and morphed into the white ranger. "As Zordon of Eltar's first charge and holder of the Falcon sprit I give thanks to your service. Know that you shall be protected throughout your service." He formally bowed to his father and then demorphed. Tommy unsteady leant against the bed and watched his father. The doctor wasn't sure what to do with the formality.
"DO NOT WORRY; THE WHITE RANGER WAS SIMPLY GIVING YOU FORMAL THANKS, AS IS HIS RIGHT AND RESPONSIBILITY." Zordon explained the behaviour. "TOMMY, THE VIRUS HAS LEFT YOUR SYSTEM, YET SOME OF THE EFFECTS MAY REMAIN FOR SEVERAL HOURS. PLEASE REMEMBER THAT I STILL WISH TO TALK TO YOU LATER HOWEVER YOUR FATHER HAS MORE NEED OF YOU NOW." Zordon dismissed them all, Tommy and his father teleported to the doctors rooms at the hospital. The other rangers returned to Rocky's house.
"Hope Tommy is going to be okay, wouldn't want my dad to find out." Rocky sympathised with his leader.
"Don't worry; I'm sure it'll be fine." Adam smiled at his close friend and they began to make popcorn for the next movie.
The two Oliver's arrived into the doctor's rooms in identical beams of white energy. Tommy, true to Zordon's word, was still feeling tired and shaky; he made immediate use of the comfortable couch Dr. Oliver had recently purchased.
"Tommy I can't believe you are a Power Ranger that is an amazing secret to hold. The amount of times you said you had to go to friends, the library and all those other excuses, they were just lies. You know how I feel about lies." Tommy's father walked over to his desk and sat on top of the cluttered mess.
"Dad, I'm one of the protectors and ambassadors of Zordon. I save the world on a regular basis. I think the saying 'the ends justifies the means' really applies here. Our world is not ready to cope with the identity of the Power Rangers; I was under a direct order not to disclose my identity to anyone. Would you want to argue with Zordon? Please be my guest, and feel what it's like to wake up on the receiving end of his displeasure." The sullenness in his sons voice had worked its way back in, now the direct threat of Zordon had been removed.
"I'm a teenager Dad, who has taken on more responsibility than any other human in this world as leader of the team. A decision in battle made by myself has greater reaching consequences than you can ever imagine. It is going to be bad enough that you know who I am, the worry and stress you will have when I'm in battle I am sorry for. I am not going to stop what I am, Zordon chose me and my team for a reason and I am not going to let him down." The sullenness removed, Dr. Oliver was moved by the seriousness and dedication present in the teenager's voice.
"Sorry, sorry. But this is something pretty huge. What am I going to tell your mother?"
"NO! Dad didn't you understand the promise you have made? You are part of us now, and the three rules apply to you as much as they do us. You will never reveal the identity of the Power Rangers, you will not use your position for personal gain and you shall never escalate a battle. I'm sorry but no one else can know." Tommy had taken the tone of his 'leaders voice', something that Matthew would learn to recognise. The fact dwelled on the doctor that his son also had control over him, and when necessary the White Ranger would put him back in his place.
Dr. Oliver sighed. "Tommy, you have grown in so many ways. I am very proud of you."
Tommy stood up and gave his father a hug. "Thanks Dad, it is going to be reassuring to know that you will be looking after Kimberly."
His mind brought back his day job, Matthew stood up and rummaged through a cabinet. "Tommy I want to take a blood sample, it woul..." He broke off as his son shook his head.
"Sorry Doc, but you can't do that here. Every test or examination material has to be kept under Zordon's observation, for safety. The records you keep here are for future use, and so we have a civilian record." Tommy patiently explained to his father. He knew that Zordon would be watching him and thought that it wouldn't be too bad an idea to offer himself for a test subject, to improve the doctor's knowledge. Then Zordon would hopefully get off his back. "Come back if you want and poke and prod me. I'm in the bad books anyways so if I hadn't offered, sure as Zordon would of teleported me in" The White Ranger looked dejected but knew it was necessary.
Matthew nearly fell over in shock. His son, letting him examine him freely? He must be in trouble with Zordon if he was offering this! The doctor nodded and they both teleported back to Zordon.
The movie over, and the next one in contemplation, Billy started as Tommy briefly let him know what he was doing. 'Tom must be feeling ill! No, guilty more like it.' Okay Tommy. You do realise that there will be needles involved?
There was a pregnant pause before Tommy replied Um, oh god. Wanna swap? Please? Tommy was well known for his phobia of needles.
No, definitely not. Don't worry your Dad will take good care of you. We'll all be here waiting once you've done. Billy gave his friend his reassurances and kept his awareness half tuned to Tommy, who was gratefully for the silent support.
"What's up Billy? Is Tommy coming back?" Kimberly asked, pining for her boyfriend. For some reason she very much wanted to be held at the moment.
"Not yet, he's still will his Dad." Picking up on her thoughts he moved closer to Kim, "Come here, I'll do for now." He held out his arm, indicating for her to come and get hugged.
The petite pink ranger smiled gratefully at the Blue Ninja and comfortably snugged into his friendly embrace. It wasn't as good as Tommy, but it would do.
Aisha came out of the kitchen with some drinks and suggestions for the next movie choice. "Kim and I want that romance comedy now; we've done your movies to death!"
Rocky sighed. "Girly flicks." Aisha swatted him over his head. "Ow! Okay Okay, I'll put in on! Seesh."
The rest of the day was spent relaxing by some and under voluntary sufferance by others. By the time Tommy rejoined his friends, he wished he wasn't speaking to Zordon or his father, but knew better. Zordon might have had the best intentions in mind when he suggested his father, but Tommy really wasn't feeling the love at the moment.
Well that's it for now guys; the next chapter is already on the way. Now I've got the initial story set up , the next chapter will jump a few months so we don't have to live the whole nine months. Let me know what you think, review please. Also if you want, suggestions for boys and girls names would be great. I have some ideas but some extra input would be great. HuntoB.
A Child for Us All Five
Tommy woke well before the rest of his friends, having fallen asleep hours before they all went to bed. The morning was cool and peaceful, with the suns ray's just peaking through the blinds in the DeSanto's entertainment room. Although he still felt tired, he was wholly awake, and knew that further sleep would only do ill. This knowledge was brought from previous experience and his father's insistence that people should sleep the same amount of hours each night, no matter what. He rolled out of his blankets and glanced down. Someone had managed to change him from his clothes to his 'P.J's' which were essentially an old t-shirt and lose track pants. Barefoot, he walked silently to the kitchen where the damage of last night's pizza remained, and the antibiotics that Zordon gave him sat. Picking the container up, he realised that Zordon had not instructed him on the dosage.
'Well Zordon wished for my health care to improve, I guess asking him how I'm meant to take these wi.... Aw no!" Tommy quickly activated his communicator. "Zordon, can I talk to you?" his urgent request was heard and the teen was teleported as a response.
Tommy's vision cleared and the cool of the Command Centre was felt through his typical bed clothes. Without waiting for greetings he blurted out "How can Kimberly have this child without a doctor?"
"BE CALM TOMMY. I FEEL WE WILL NEED TO ENTRUST YOUR IDENTITIES WITH A DOCTOR OF OUR CHOOSING, TO MAKE YOU'RE CHILD'S ENTRY INTO THE WORLD AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE." Zordon sounded like he had already thought this through.
Tommy stood there, poleaxed. "Is that it? It's that simple? I just walk up to a doctor and say, hey I'm a power ranger, don't tell anyone and I need to you deliver my child?" His reply to Zordon's solution was a tad on the sullen side, but he really didn't care about that. Tommy had first hand experience that if a doctor could get their hands on the rangers, they would never leave the research facility.
Zordon remained silent, waiting for the 'eldest' of his 'children' to make a quiet apology. He understood the stress that Tommy was currently under, yet he was not going to tolerate rudeness when he was simply trying to help. The apology was not forthcoming, and the leader of the power rangers continued to stare at his mentor, unabashed by his comments.
"THOMAS" Zordon began. Tommy flinched; to be called by his formal name meant he was in for it. "I UNDERSTAND THE STRESS YOU HAVE BEEN UNDER, AND THAT YOU ARE CURRENTLY SUFFERING FROM ILLNESS BUT I WILL NOT TOLERATE THIS ATTITUDE FROM YOU, I WISH ONLY TO ASSIST YOU. YOU WILL SIT DOWN, NOW" Tommy sat, not bothering to look behind him for the chair he knew would be there, one didn't argue with Zordon when he took that sort of tone. He also ignored the questioning presence of Billy within his mind; you didn't brush Zordon off to let someone know you were okay either. So Billy remained as the silent witness.
"AS I INFORMED YOU YESTERDAY, I AM FULLY AWARE OF THE STRESS YOU ARE UNDER. THIS DOES NOT EXCUSE ABUSE OF LEADERSHIP OR UNNECESSARY RUDENESS." The mentor of the power rangers decided that it was time Tommy received a quick wakeup call that he wasn't the only one on the planet who had worries. "YOU MUST BE AWARE OF OTHERS WORSE OFF THAN YOURSELF YET NEVER COMPLAIN OR CAUSE STRIFE, THEY SIMPLY CARRY ON TO THE BEST OF THEIR ABILITIES. THERE ARE OTHER HUMANS IN THE WORLD WHO HAVE FOUND THEMSELVES IN YOUR SITUATION, AND I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THERE WILL BE MORE AFTER YOU. RUDENESS WILL NOT GET YOU FAR TOMMY, PARTICULARLY IN THE EYES OF THOSE WHO LOVE AND CARE FOR YOU." To receive one 'telling-off' from Zordon was bad enough; two in less than 24 hours was near unbearable. Tommy was sitting in front of him mentor, his eyes involved in a careful study of his shoes. Alpha has wisely retreated to the back of the room, remaining out of the firing line. A red flush had crept upon Tommy's face as Billy silently agreed with Zordon.
I think this is where you make your apologies Tom, and begin to ask constructive questions Billy's sarcastic comment stung Tommy, letting him know just what he thought of the treatment he gave to the father figure to the ranger team.
Tommy was also mentally kicking himself. He just wanted to be rid of responsibility for a short period of time; fatherhood was a scary concept to someone who was still in his teens. He was tired and fuzzy, thanks to his viral infection and scared of the months ahead. The rudeness to Zordon was more of a cry for help than real resentment. The teen sighed and quietly gave his apologies.
"I am sorry Zordon. I'm not quiet sure why I acted like that. It's jus...." Tommy trailed off, unsure how to voice his feelings and sorrow.
The mentor of the Power Rangers softened at the sight of his charge looking small and unsure. He knew that Tommy's actions were not true to the boy's character, but something needed to be done to alter the teen's perception of his current situation. "AS I HAVE SAID, I UNDERSTAND YOUR TROUBLES AND WILL ACCEPT YOUR APOLOGY. YOU WILL FIND SOMETHING TO EAT BESIDE YOU, YOU NEED TO TAKE THE ANTIBIOTICS THREE TIMES A DAY WITH FOOD, I SUGGEST YOU COMMENCE THE COURSE NOW. YOUR FATHER IS A DOCTOR, I FEEL THAT HE WOULD BE THE MOST LOGICAL CHOICE, AND POTENTIALLY THE MOST TRUSTWORTHY."
Tommy looked started as he started to eat the breakfast given to him. "My father? Zordon are you cra... I mean, are you sure?" The white ranger knew that if his father knew of his 'day job' then he would never hear the end of it. He also knew that he'd better watch his mouth around Zordon at the moment, a sedative and wake up lecture wasn't something he wished to face.
"YES, YOUR FATHER TOMMY. YOU KNOW YOU CAN TRUST HIM TO HELP KIMBERLY AND KEEP OUR SECRET. IT WOULD ALSO BE WISE TO HAVE A DOCTOR WHO CAN KEEP 'NORMAL' RECORDS FOR YOU SO THAT FUTURE SUSPICION IS NOT RAISED OVER YOUR LACK OF TREATMENT." Zordon didn't need to add that his white ranger was slightly accident prone, and there are only so many excuses that sound plausible to parents when their child does not come home for the night.
Tommy sighed and ate the last piece of toast, he felt, light he couldn't quiet explain it. Then he realised, "You drugged me, why?" Zordon's explanation was lost as he fell into unconsciousness.
"AYE, AYE ZORDON, WHY?" Alpha quickly made his way to the white ranger and teleported him to the infirmary.
"THE ILLNESS IN TOMMY'S BODY WILL NOT RESPOND TO TREATMENT IF ITS VICTIM IS PLAGUED WITH WORRY AND STRESS THUS TOMMY UNCONSCIOUS WILL ALLOW ME TO PROCESS A HIGHER DOSAGE OF TREATMENT THROUGH HIS SYSTEM WITH GREATER RESULTS. I ALSO FEEL THAT ROCKY AND ADAM SHOULD CONTACT TOMMY'S FATHER. THE DOCTOR CAN THEN FAMILIARISE HIMSELF WITH THE RANGERS CHANGED PHYSIOLOGY THROUGH HIS SON." Zordon contacted the remaining rangers, who had just awoken to Billy's frightened cry of 'Tommy', brought on from the sudden loss of contact.
The rangers quickly teleported into the main chamber, with the exception of Billy who diverted to the infirmary where Tommy was held, they then waited expectantly for Zordon to speak. "RANGERS, TOMMY IS SAFE YET I HAVE PLACED HIM INTO UNCONSCIOUSNESS TO TREAT HIS VIRAL INFECTION. TOMMY CAME THIS MORNING TO ASK HOW KIMBERLY WAS GOING TO CONTINUE THROUGH HER PREGNANCY WITHOUT A DOCTOR. AFTER SOME THOUGHT I FEEL IT IS BEST TO ALLOW A CIVILIAN DOCTOR ACCESS TO OUR SECRET. THIS SHALL SOLVE SEVERAL PROBLEMS. I HAVE CHOSEN TOMMY'S FATHER AS HE CAN BE TRUSTED. ROCKY AND ADAM SHALL TELEPORT MORPHED TO DOCTOR OLIVER AND BRING HIM HERE." Billy heard the last of the instructions as he walked into the room.
"Are they to tell him anything before teleportation?" His face looked tired, echoing his leaders.
"NO BILLY, JUST THAT THE RANGERS HAVE NEED. THE REMAINING RANGERS SHALL WAIT HERE MORPHED." Zordon waited for his second in command to give the order.
"All everyone, we know what to do. IT'S MORPHIN TIME!" The rangers morphed and Rocky and Adam teleported out, leaving the others to bide their time.
Dr. Oliver worked at Angle Grove Hospital, a place his son had never seen as a patient. That in itself was abnormal due to Tommy's dedication to the martial arts. He had some private rooms where he saw his outpatients, yet the majority of his time was spent in the wards, making him difficult to locate. The two power ranger's teleported to the information desk and asked the rather flustered nurse where they could find Dr. Oliver. A page was put out and Tommy's father strode into the room minutes later. Tommy and his father were very alike in looks. Both had the soulful brown eyes and tanned skin. One of the main differences between the two was Tommy's hair was long, and Matthew Oliver's hair was short. He was also the source of his son's capacity to melt peoples hearts with a single 'little lost boy' look. Tommy's temper and aversion for doctors was bequeathed upon him through his uncle. This made life interesting in the Oliver household. His eyes widened in surprise when he saw the two rangers. "How can I help you?"
"Dr. Oliver, we have need for your assistance, will you please come with us?" The Black ranger was polite and well spoken.
"Certainly, let me get my bag." Dr. Oliver started towards his rooms, one didn't argue with those who fought monsters on near daily basis. The Blue ranger stopped him, "Ahh, that won't be necessary." Blue pressed his morpher and all three disappeared.
When the doctor's vision cleared, he found himself surrounded by the remaining ranger team, including the other blue ninja ranger. Their leader was missing however. "WELCOME DR. OLIVER, I AM ZORDON MENTOR TO THE POWER RANGERS." Dr. Oliver turned towards the source of the voice and nearly fainted, there was a dismembered head talking to him!
"Nice to meet you Zordon," Matthew was proud that his voice remained steady. "I understand you have need of my services."
"I WISH TO FIRST TELL YOU THE FULL HISTORY OF THE POWER RANGERS. WHAT I AM ABOUT TO TELL YOU IS ONLY KNOWN ON EARTH BY PRESENT AND PAST POWER RANGERS, ALPHA FIVE AND MYSELF." A small robot waved by way of introduction, from his hiding place behind the pink ranger. Zordon began the story of the rangers, omitting any identities until he had completed the tale. "RANGERS, PLEASE REVEAL YOUR IDENTITY TO DR. OLIVER" The Power Rangers slowly moved their helmets. Dr. Oliver was astounded to see teens that were close friends of his sons, and past patients of his.
"This is why you don't get sick anymore!" Zordon had told him of the advanced healing the rangers now held. "But where is your leader, the white ranger? Is it he that needs my assistance?" Then it dawned to him that his own son wore white, and this group of teenagers was Tommy's closest friends. "Oh my god, is Tommy okay?"
"PLEASE DO NOT BE ALARMED. TOMMY IS INDEED THE WHITE POWER RANGER AND LEADER OF THE TEAM. HE IS NOT IN ANY DANGER, SIMPLY SUFFERING FROM A VIRAL INFECTION. YOU WILL BE TAKEN TO HIM SHORTLY. YOU ARE AWARE OF KIMBERLY'S CONDITION?" Zordon reassured the doctor.
"Yes I am, but what do I have do with this?"
"DUE TO THE RANGERS CHANGED PHYSIOLOGY THEY ARE UNABLE TO VISIT DOCTORS. ALPHA AND I ARE CAPABLE OF TREATING ALL ALIMENTS. KIMBERLY'S PREGNANCY IS KNOWN BY SEVERAL CIVILIANS AND TREATMENT BY ME AND ALPHA WOULD RAISE SUSPICION. THE RANGERS NEED A DOCTOR WHO CAN BE TRUSTED WITH THEIR SECRETS, AND TO TREAT KIMBERLY AND THEMSELVES FROM TIME TO TIME TO AVOID SUSPICION. WOULD YOU BE WILLING TO TAKE THIS ROLE?"
"I'd be honoured Kimberly. I accept and promise to keep the identity of you all a secret." The doctor spoke with warmth and his voice held traces of slight shock.
"THANK YOU DOCTOR OLIVER. ALPHA HAS MADE A COMMUNICATOR FOR YOU IN EMERGENCIES. THE RANGER'S WILL NOW TAKE YOU TO TOMMY. I HAVE PLACED HIM INTO UNCONSCIOUSNESS TO HELP FIGHT HIS VIRAL INFECTION. I WOULD ASK YOU TO TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH THE CHANGES IN YOUR SON, SO YOU CAN APPLY THEM TO ALL OF MY RANGERS." The doctor nodded, impatient to see that his son was safe. The ranger team lead the way to the infirmary, where Zordon appeared in his time warp tube. Tommy was laying on one of the med beds, still in his bed clothes.
"Zordon, something is hurting him" Billy sat down quickly on one of the other beds, holding his side. The mage quickly explored Tommy's body; the virus was attacking one of his lungs. He increased the dosage of the medication, which had instant effect. His father quickly made his way to his side and placed a hand on his son's head.
"How did you know that Billy?" The doctor was curious and slightly alarmed to see that Billy shared the slightly fevered look that Tommy had. Billy looked at Aisha and then closed his eyes.
You tell him, I am really not in the mood for people in awe over me at the moment. The yellow ranger filled the doctor on the link between Billy and Tommy. "Ahh, I'll want to explore that later, for now however." Dr. Oliver set to examining his son, noting the changes that the power had given him. He was amazed at the technology the rangers had, tools to operate with that showed the inside of the body, the med bed that gave out stats on injuries, rate of healing and other health stats and other medical technology that earth had yet to dream of. He saw that the virus in his son was nearly beaten, and his son's healing rate was off the scale. As a doctor and a father, Matthew was well aware of his sons' body, becoming a ranger had increased his sons' strength and stamina in more ways than one. The doctor turned and walked over to Billy, who sat among his friends looking tired.
"May I examine you Billy?"
The blue ranger looked at the doctor carefully. "Why? There is nothing wrong with me." The blue ninja ranger shared Tommy's aversion to doctors, something that both Zordon and Dr. Oliver were aware of.
"BILLY, THE DOCTOR NEEDS TO FAMILIARISE HIMSELF WITH YOU ALL. YOU ARE THE LOGICAL CHOICE AS YOU ARE LINKED WITH TOMMY." Zordon made it clear that Billy was to cooperate.
"If it makes you feel any better Billy, I'd like to have a look at everyone, so I know what I'm working with. If the others wouldn't mind waiting, I'll see you all alone, with the exception of Tommy laying here." Dr. Oliver quietly made his authority known and that he planned to take this new position seriously. His son would be getting a lecture later on however. The ranger team complied with the doctor, grateful that it wasn't their turn next. After having Zordon and Alpha as doctors, they were a little nervous at visiting a human one.
"Okay Billy," Matthew said as the rangers left, "how bout you lay down for a bit, I think Tommy is rubbing off on you." Dr. Oliver was captivated towards the mental link between the two teens, and wanted to explore it further.
"The link you two have, it transmits feelings and conditions?"
Billy looked nervously at the doctor. "Yeah, when one of us is sick or hurt, the other will feel some of that. But our thoughts and feelings are felt exactly as they are experienced. We know where the other is the majority of the time. Tommy is a passive telepath; he can only communicate through our bond. I'm a full telepath, meaning I can communicate with all and pick up on thoughts when I want." As Billy fully lay out on the med bed, his stats appeared on the screen beside the bed.
The doctor talked aloud as he worked. "You all have similar rates of healing, but it seems different area's heal faster between you and Tom." Billy nodded he was started to get a headache; sleep would have been nice for awhile, with no doctor's prodding him. This is why we don't go to a doctor. the teen couldn't help feeling slightly grumpy.
BILLY, YOU KNOW WHY THE DOCTOR IS DOING THIS, PLEASE COOPERATE I DON'T NEED YOU AND TOMMY OUT OF SORTS the ninja jumped; sometimes he forgot how he could communicate with other's so easily. The doctor noticed his jump.
"Are you okay Billy? Is something hurting you?"
Billy shook his head. "If you check that screen, and go through the different functions you will be able to see what I'm feeling and why, how my bodily functions are rated, if I have any injuries, illnesses or spells over me and what are my normal body functions. We have these so we can help people or beings that can't communicate their pains and abilities to us." Billy closed his eyes as the doctor flicked through the information screens, he gasped as a cold stethoscope was placed on his chest.
"Sorry Billy, I just can't believe your heart rate is so slow, this is amazing!"
"Thanks" Came the dry reply. Unknown to Billy, the doctor blushed.
"Okay Billy, like you said you're just mirroring what Tommy has. Thanks for that can you go and get someone else? Oh, before you do, can you show me your talent?" Matthew thanked Billy, refraining from telling him to take it easy, if he was anything like his son it would fall on deaf ears.
No problem Doc. I'll get Rocky for you shall I? His capacity for food will amaze you. with that blatant display Billy exited before Zordon could tell him off. Dr. Oliver just stared after him in astonishment.
Through the rest of the morning, the doctor saw the remaining rangers and made a formal appointment for Kimberly. He was just finishing his tour of the entire facility when Billy informed them that Tommy was waking up.
The group reassembled to the infirmary as Tommy opened his eyes. "No fair Zordon, putting drugs in my breakfast." He grumbled as he sat up. "Don't be silly Billy, Dad can't be here, I think the virus has got to you too." Dr. Oliver looked at the teens which treated this as normal. He wasn't quiet used to his son as a Power Ranger and a telepath to boot. Just then the white ranger laid eyes on his father.
"Oh shite."
"Tommy that sort of language is not called for." The doc scolded him. "How are you feeling and yes I know and yes you are in trouble later."
"The bed will tell you how I'm feeling and I know you know and how can I be in trouble when I'm protecting the planet?" Tommy obviously hadn't improved his earlier mood.
"TOMMY, I BELIEVE WE HAVE ALREADY HAD A DISCUSSION ABOUT THIS ATTITUDE, SHALL I REPEAT IT IN FRONT OF YOUR FATHER?" Zordon quickly put a stop to a repeat performance. The leader of the power rangers shrank back from the threat. Dr. Oliver was interested to see that the rangers had a father/child relationship with their mentor, making Zordon a power ally. "DR. OLIVER HAS CONSENTED TO HELP US FROM THIS POINT FORWARD."
"The virus is gone, I feel okay I guess." Tommy gave the quiet reply to his father. He stood up and morphed into the white ranger. "As Zordon of Eltar's first charge and holder of the Falcon sprit I give thanks to your service. Know that you shall be protected throughout your service." He formally bowed to his father and then demorphed. Tommy unsteady leant against the bed and watched his father. The doctor wasn't sure what to do with the formality.
"DO NOT WORRY; THE WHITE RANGER WAS SIMPLY GIVING YOU FORMAL THANKS, AS IS HIS RIGHT AND RESPONSIBILITY." Zordon explained the behaviour. "TOMMY, THE VIRUS HAS LEFT YOUR SYSTEM, YET SOME OF THE EFFECTS MAY REMAIN FOR SEVERAL HOURS. PLEASE REMEMBER THAT I STILL WISH TO TALK TO YOU LATER HOWEVER YOUR FATHER HAS MORE NEED OF YOU NOW." Zordon dismissed them all, Tommy and his father teleported to the doctors rooms at the hospital. The other rangers returned to Rocky's house.
"Hope Tommy is going to be okay, wouldn't want my dad to find out." Rocky sympathised with his leader.
"Don't worry; I'm sure it'll be fine." Adam smiled at his close friend and they began to make popcorn for the next movie.
The two Oliver's arrived into the doctor's rooms in identical beams of white energy. Tommy, true to Zordon's word, was still feeling tired and shaky; he made immediate use of the comfortable couch Dr. Oliver had recently purchased.
"Tommy I can't believe you are a Power Ranger that is an amazing secret to hold. The amount of times you said you had to go to friends, the library and all those other excuses, they were just lies. You know how I feel about lies." Tommy's father walked over to his desk and sat on top of the cluttered mess.
"Dad, I'm one of the protectors and ambassadors of Zordon. I save the world on a regular basis. I think the saying 'the ends justifies the means' really applies here. Our world is not ready to cope with the identity of the Power Rangers; I was under a direct order not to disclose my identity to anyone. Would you want to argue with Zordon? Please be my guest, and feel what it's like to wake up on the receiving end of his displeasure." The sullenness in his sons voice had worked its way back in, now the direct threat of Zordon had been removed.
"I'm a teenager Dad, who has taken on more responsibility than any other human in this world as leader of the team. A decision in battle made by myself has greater reaching consequences than you can ever imagine. It is going to be bad enough that you know who I am, the worry and stress you will have when I'm in battle I am sorry for. I am not going to stop what I am, Zordon chose me and my team for a reason and I am not going to let him down." The sullenness removed, Dr. Oliver was moved by the seriousness and dedication present in the teenager's voice.
"Sorry, sorry. But this is something pretty huge. What am I going to tell your mother?"
"NO! Dad didn't you understand the promise you have made? You are part of us now, and the three rules apply to you as much as they do us. You will never reveal the identity of the Power Rangers, you will not use your position for personal gain and you shall never escalate a battle. I'm sorry but no one else can know." Tommy had taken the tone of his 'leaders voice', something that Matthew would learn to recognise. The fact dwelled on the doctor that his son also had control over him, and when necessary the White Ranger would put him back in his place.
Dr. Oliver sighed. "Tommy, you have grown in so many ways. I am very proud of you."
Tommy stood up and gave his father a hug. "Thanks Dad, it is going to be reassuring to know that you will be looking after Kimberly."
His mind brought back his day job, Matthew stood up and rummaged through a cabinet. "Tommy I want to take a blood sample, it woul..." He broke off as his son shook his head.
"Sorry Doc, but you can't do that here. Every test or examination material has to be kept under Zordon's observation, for safety. The records you keep here are for future use, and so we have a civilian record." Tommy patiently explained to his father. He knew that Zordon would be watching him and thought that it wouldn't be too bad an idea to offer himself for a test subject, to improve the doctor's knowledge. Then Zordon would hopefully get off his back. "Come back if you want and poke and prod me. I'm in the bad books anyways so if I hadn't offered, sure as Zordon would of teleported me in" The White Ranger looked dejected but knew it was necessary.
Matthew nearly fell over in shock. His son, letting him examine him freely? He must be in trouble with Zordon if he was offering this! The doctor nodded and they both teleported back to Zordon.
The movie over, and the next one in contemplation, Billy started as Tommy briefly let him know what he was doing. 'Tom must be feeling ill! No, guilty more like it.' Okay Tommy. You do realise that there will be needles involved?
There was a pregnant pause before Tommy replied Um, oh god. Wanna swap? Please? Tommy was well known for his phobia of needles.
No, definitely not. Don't worry your Dad will take good care of you. We'll all be here waiting once you've done. Billy gave his friend his reassurances and kept his awareness half tuned to Tommy, who was gratefully for the silent support.
"What's up Billy? Is Tommy coming back?" Kimberly asked, pining for her boyfriend. For some reason she very much wanted to be held at the moment.
"Not yet, he's still will his Dad." Picking up on her thoughts he moved closer to Kim, "Come here, I'll do for now." He held out his arm, indicating for her to come and get hugged.
The petite pink ranger smiled gratefully at the Blue Ninja and comfortably snugged into his friendly embrace. It wasn't as good as Tommy, but it would do.
Aisha came out of the kitchen with some drinks and suggestions for the next movie choice. "Kim and I want that romance comedy now; we've done your movies to death!"
Rocky sighed. "Girly flicks." Aisha swatted him over his head. "Ow! Okay Okay, I'll put in on! Seesh."
The rest of the day was spent relaxing by some and under voluntary sufferance by others. By the time Tommy rejoined his friends, he wished he wasn't speaking to Zordon or his father, but knew better. Zordon might have had the best intentions in mind when he suggested his father, but Tommy really wasn't feeling the love at the moment.
Well that's it for now guys; the next chapter is already on the way. Now I've got the initial story set up , the next chapter will jump a few months so we don't have to live the whole nine months. Let me know what you think, review please. Also if you want, suggestions for boys and girls names would be great. I have some ideas but some extra input would be great. HuntoB.