Disclaimer: Well, I don't own all of them. I wish I did. But oh well, you
should all know who I own by now. Right?
AN: Thanks to those of you who reviewed, and especially to those of you who let me know that you really like this story. You know who you are. Now, on to the story and please review! Or at least send me an email or something to let me know your thoughts.
Going Home???
The following morning, Zack smiled at Billy. "I have to get to my first class but I will be seeing you at the seminar. Do you know where the auditorium is?"
"When I talked to the desk earlier, they said somebody will be by to show me the way." Billy smiled as a soft knock sounded from the door. He looked at his reflection. "I look like a teacher."
"I think it looks nice!" Trini walked in and kissed his cheek. "I don't know where you are going while we are at class, but you really look nice!"
"Thanks." Billy smiled and went back to going through his backpack. "I got a letter last night asking me to converse with someone today. So I have to go to some meeting."
"Well, will you be able to join us for lunch? After our seminar, we are done for the day." Trini waited for Zack by the door.
"Yeah, I should be done by then. I just have to go do this meeting and then I will be free to do whatever I want or the rest of the time I am here." He smiled as they headed out the door. "I'll see you later Tri."
"See you Billy." She smiled as they headed out the door.
"Now, to get my stuff together and head down to the desk." Billy gathered all the stuff he needed and walked out the door.
FOUR HOURS LATER
"Thanks for showing me around Aaron." Billy shook the man's hand and set his backpack down. "Is everything ready for me?"
"We have everything set up just as you said William." The man motioned to the door next to them. "The curtain is closed so you can go right in and get ready. The instructor will call your friends up to help."
"Thank you. And call me Billy." He saw the man nod as he headed off. He took a deep breath, picked up his backpack, and headed into the room. He could hear the instructor tell the students to take a 5-minute break.
"William?" An older gentleman appeared around the curtain and shook his hand. "Its an honor to meet you."
"Call me Billy." He looked around at his equipment. "I still don't understand why you want me to do this seminar. I mean I am just a student as well."
"We remembered your name form the summit and thought that you would be the best person for it as your friends would be more comfortable with it. After all, you are the only ones here that have actually used all this equipment before and have repeatedly done this kind of stuff." He smiled as Billy looked at his notes. "Your friends always speak highly of you."
"They do?" Billy looked up at the man as he nodded. "I just try to do my best and that's it. I'm no different than anyone else."
"Your instructors back home say different. They all believe you can make it in whatever profession you choose. They all agreed that you would be perfect for the seminar." He watched the boy blush. "I also have another reason for calling on you."
"What's that?" Billy licked his lips as he realized his mouth was suddenly dry. "I'm not the only student who knows how this stuff works am I?"
"Well, you are the only one that I have heard of. But the reason I wanted you is because I work for NASA and I was told that you were a big part of implementing the Wolfpup program." He motioned to the equipment around them. "Is everything as you need it?"
"Yes, thank you." Billy sorted through the overhead sheets that were on the projector. "NASA was more than right about the program. However, I didn't just implement it. I was the one who designed and built it."
"You are a smart young man Billy. I hope I will get a chance to work with you when I get back to NASA." He looked at his watch. "Well, I have to get back to work. I will introduce you after I call your friends up."
Billy nodded as he got ready. He then stood aside as his friends were called up. Smiling, he listened as the instructor told them that they were the only students who had used the equipment the scientist would be using so they were the ones who could assist.
Trini looked over at Zack as the curtain was pulled back. She stared in awe as the instructor introduced Billy. "I don't believe it."
Zack laughed as they joined Billy and was handed his safety equipment. He whispered back as he put them on. "We decided to surprise you with it."
Twenty minutes later, Billy smiled and bowed his head. Their applause made him blush. "Thank you."
"Thank you Billy." The instructor turned to the other students and smiled. "That concludes this seminar. I will get the grades out in two days. Good luck on your finals." He turned back towards Billy and shook his hand. "Remember what I said earlier. If you need anything, just call me up and ask. I've got connections all over NASA and NASADA."
Billy smiled. "I will. Thank you." He put everything away and waited for his friends by the door. He flinched when Trini walked up to him and hit his arm. "What was that for?"
"For not telling me!" She laughed as he pretended to pout. "Come on, let's get some lunch!" She looked around the large cafeteria. "Okay, anyone see an empty table?"
Billy laughed and headed to the far side of the room. "Follow me."
"Only you would find the table in the quiet area of a crowded room!" Zack laughed as they set their stuff down and headed over to get their food.
30 minutes later, Trini put her fork down and sighed. "I don't know about you but I am stuffed." She looked over to see Zack watching her. "What?"
"Nothing. I was just thinking about going home." He smiled and continued watching her.
"But why are you staring at me?" Trini looked over to see Billy laughing. "What's so funny?"
"Don't you see what he's looking at? It's not you, it your hand." Billy saw her smile. "He found out last night."
"I pried it out of him. All I have to say is it's about time!" Zack laughed and kissed her hand. "I say we go out and celebrate."
"Why? We can do that when we tell the others." Trini looked over to see Billy thinking. "What's up Billy?"
"I was just wondering. Do you think I need to get my hair cut?" He saw Trini's brow furrow. "I take that as a yes." He got up and threw his trash out as they did the same. "I think I need to get it trimmed so I can do something with it once we get back."
"That sounds like a plan. Plus, we can get busy on that idea I had!" Trini gathered her things and led them towards the dorm. "Once we get to the shopping center, I want to show you the one store I found. It's kind of hidden and you have to know what to look for."
Zack looked warily at Billy before dropping his bag on his desk. "You can leave your stuff here Tri. And I am not so sure I want to know how you found out about the store."
"That's easy!" Trini set her bag down next to Billy's and followed them out the door. "I was talking to one of the instructors from one of my classes and she showed it to me. It is a store that has to have a license to sell the items in it."
Billy grinned as she looked around and pulled them behind a big display. In front of him was the biggest store he had ever seen. "Wow, I think I'm in heaven." He looked in the window and saw a display of computer parts inside. "Let's go!" He pulled them laughing into the store.
"Miss Kwan, how good to see you again!" A middle-aged woman walked up to them and smiled at Billy. "Mr. Cranston, your reputation precedes you. It's an honor to have such young talent in the store. You can see why we have to keep this store a secret from the rest of the mall."
Billy nodded as they looked around. "Yes, it is an amazing store. I wish we had one back home." He smiled as Zack walked over to a stereo with a screen in it. It would really come in handy with the Youth Center and the schools when they upgrade their systems." He turned towards the computer display he saw through the window. "I would love to have something like this at my dad's company. They handle a bunch of programs for NASA."
The woman smiled. "You live in Angel Grove right?" When they smiled, she laughed. "We actually just opened a new store somewhere between Stone Canyon, Angel Grove, and the NASADA base. Would you like me to get the address for you?"
"That would be great! I can give it to my dad when I return." Billy watched the woman walk away before turning to see Trini admiring something. "You like that?"
Trini looked up at him as Zack rejoined them. "I have always wanted one of these." She held up the tiny Asian inspired lantern. "This is a traditional honor lantern that they use to honor the family members who are not around them." She sighed as she placed it back on the shelf. "Grandma and grandpa have one in their den."
"Then you should have one in your home." Billy smiled as he picked up the boxed lantern below it. "I mean, you are so close to them and yet you never see them. It's only fair that you have something to honor them as well."
"Man, you are already spoiling her man!" Zack laughed as the lady returned with a sheet of paper.
Here you go Mr. Cranston. This sheet has all the directions for the store. And they are having a contest as well for the first month. If you buy anything, your name is automatically put in for it." She smiled as Billy took the paper. "Enjoy your time in here. When you are ready, just ring and I will have someone check you out."
Billy nodded as she left. "Man, my dad will love this." He put the paper in his pocket and began to look around. "Now, what all could we use for your plan Trini?"
Two hours later, Billy smiled as he peeked out from their position. "Coast is clear." They walked out into the mall. "This plan is going to be so much fun tri." They walked over to the salon. "Now, what should we do about our hair?"
Zack laughed. "Man, you are starting to sound like the girls Billy!" When he received a smack on his arm, he smiled. "Just cut it to what you usually get."
"No, I have a better idea." Trini walked over to the man at the desk and began to talk. The man smiled and nodded and led them over to a chair. "Go ahead Billy. I told him what to do."
Billy handed his bag to Zack and sat down. "Ok, let's see what you got."
Trini looked up from her salon chair as some of the other girls around her whistled. "Wow!" She smiled up at Billy as he stopped in front of her. "He did more than I told him to."
Billy grinned. "I think I like this better than the one I got back home." He turned to see Zack coming back from his chair. "Hey Zack. Looks like we got what we wanted."
Zack stared at him. His wide eyes showed his friends how surprised he was. "Whoa man! You look like..." He shook his head. "You are going to give your dad a heart attack!"
Billy laughed and ran a hand through his hair. "I think I look just like him."
"Like him? You look like his twin!" Trini smiled up at the lady behind her as she handed her a mirror. "Wow, that looks great! Thank you!"
"Trini, you look just like your mom." Zack looked over at Trini. "Do I look like my dad?"
"Yes, they will all flip when they see us." Billy smiled as they gathered their things and headed over to the desk. "Trini, didn't you say you had to meet Sarah somewhere?"
"Oh my god, I forgot about that!" She ran outside to a phone. A few minutes later, she smiled as they walked up to her. "Ok, I will see you in a few." She hung up the phone and turned towards them. "Would you guys mind taking my stuff back to your room? Sarah is going to meet me here."
"Sure. We will see you later I guess." Billy kissed her before following Zack. Once back in their room, Billy sighed. "Hey Zack, you really think our plan will work?"
"Absolutely man!" He lay back on his bed and turned his stereo on. "I think it will really freak out our folks but they will laugh in the end."
"Yeah. I guess so. I can't wait to get back and surprise them all." Billy leaned back and closed his eyes. The songs washed over him with their soft beats and he found himself getting drowsy. "Man, I am starting to get tired."
"I know. Maybe I should find some other music to keep us awake." He turned the knob on hi stereo and smiled as his favorite artist sang through the speakers. "Now, that's more like it!"
Billy laughed as she stood up and walked over to the window. "That's better. That should..." He trailed off as he looked across campus. "Oh my god!"
Zack immediately turned his stereo off and joined him at the window. "Wasn't Sarah going to be joining Trini there?" He turned to see Billy running out the door. "I take that as a yes." He ran after his friend.
When they got to the crowd around the mall, Billy stopped. Sarah was helping a woman to sit down. She glanced up as Billy walked over to them. "I'm so glad you're here."
"What happened?" Billy caught the bottle of water Zack threw at him and handed it to the lady. "Where's Trini?"
"She went to get my son." The lady looked up at him. "These young girls heard me calling for him and your friend said she thought she saw him. This young lady told me she would take care of him so I came out with her. But then the building collapsed. Right after we made it through the door." She began to sob uncontrollably.
Billy nodded and looked around. Seeing who he thought was in charge, he found it ironic that it was the very instructor who was teaching the seminar that afternoon. "Are you in charge?"
"Yes Billy. What do you need?" The man looked over to see Zack helping Sarah to comfort the woman. "Where is Trini?"
Billy looked at him and motioned to the collapsed building in front of them. "She left Sarah to help that lady while she went to get the lady's son. They were somewhere inside when the building collapsed."
"I'm so very sorry Billy. I can't do much more than to help the men dig through the rubble." He pointed to a pile near the main entrance. "Start there." He turned back to Billy. "If you would like to start digging in another area with some other volunteers, you can do so."
"Thank you." He went back to Zack and Sarah. "Zack, I want you to help me find some students to help the crew dig through the rubble for survivors and the injured. Sarah, you stay here with..." He looked down at the lady. "What's your name?"
"My name is Kimberly. You can call me Kim." She saw Billy look at Zack. "Is there something wrong?"
Billy shook her hand. "We have ea very good friend back home named Kim. She is like a sister to me. We will do everything we can to help find your son."
"Thank you. He isn't one to run away but when we heard what sounded like a bomb or something, we got separated when people started racing for the door. He would go to whoever he feels would be safest to be with if not with me." She sighed as Sarah put an arm around her. "I appreciate everything you kids are doing."
"Hey, we do it back at home in Angel Grove so we are use to it." Billy stood up. "Let's go Zack."
Within five minutes, they had found a number of students and had begun to dig near the rescue crew. Billy stopped when he found a small hand sticking through a pile of rocks. He was surprised to turn around and see 3 beams of light appear near him and Zack. The red one appeared right next to him.
"Heard you may need some help." The red ranger stepped up to him and motioned to the pink and white rangers. "The others are fighting some monster."
"Thanks. We could use some help. We need to lift that heavy boulder off that woman immediately." Billy pointed to the hand he had found. He looked around and saw the instructor and rescue crew watching them." The rangers are here to help us." They all smiled and returned to their work. Billy leaned in and whispered so nobody could here them. "Help me with this boulder. I HAVE to get her out."
The red ranger nodded and looked around. "Where's Trini? And how do you know it's a female?" He helped Billy move the boulder off the girl and immediately saw a small boy stick his head out from under the woman's body." Is the mother dead?" He helped the boy up and watched as Billy knelt down next to the woman.
Billy felt for a pulse and began to cry. "The woman is not the mother. She is with Sarah. And no, she isn't dead."
"If its not the mom, who is it?" Jason handed the boy over to the instructor and turned to see Billy carefully lift the girl and carry her to a stretcher.
"You know who it is Jase." Billy set her down and wiped the hair from her face. The shocked gasp behind him made him turn. "Zack, tell Sarah and Kim to go with this ambulance to the hospital. The boy is with Trini."
Zack nodded and ran off to their friend. "Jase, help me with the rest of the digging."
Jason nodded slowly as the ambulance pulled away. "Is she going to be ok?"
Billy shrugged as he walked over to the white and pink rangers. "Yes that was Trini. Help us get the rest of the people out and then we will all go to the hospital." They nodded and resumed their digging.
Billy sat down and took a sip of water form his water bottle as the rest of the rescue teams walked away from the rubble. "I can't believe we got everyone out in only 5 hours. This town really loves to help."
Zack smiled as the rangers walked up to them. "Yeah, that's why they chose this town for the conferences. Thanks for the help guys. You should all get back home though."
Adam nodded. "Yeah, we will go. Jason, Kim, and Tommy will stay with you guys. That way they can tell us what's going on when they get back."
The rangers teleported out as Billy was approached by a big man. "I heard you were the one that found my son and that girl. "Would you come with me to the hospital Mr. Cranston?"
Billy was shocked. "How do you know my name?"
"I was there when you did your presentation this afternoon. I am a volunteer at the conferences. In the off time, I am head of rescue ops for this town. When the conferences end, I go back to my full time job as head of emergency services for the whole town." He held out his hand. "My son was with me and heard the whole seminar. He wants to be just like you he says."
"Wow, thanks. I don't want to be a bother though. My friends and I are all waiting for our other friends before heading to the hospital. That girl who saved your son was my girlfriend."
"Well, I drove this ambulance so I can wait for you. Besides, I still have a few things to do around here before I go. Just come find me when they are here. I can give you all a lift." He looked up as a man approached them. "Excuse me."
Billy looked at Zack as Jason, Tommy, and Kim joined them. "We have a ride to the hospital."
Zack smiled weakly as he took a paper from Jason. "What's this?"
"The director of the conferences saw me and told me to give this to you. He thinks I am here visiting you guys for the weekend." Jason nodded to the man that joined them. "Hey John, didn't think I'd see you again!" He shook hands with him and smiled.
"Hi Jason. "I didn't know you knew these two." He nodded to Billy and Zack. "I offered them a ride to the hospital. I am finished here is you are joining them."
"Yeah, and these are two of our closest friends Kim and Tommy." The man nodded to them as they all headed for the ambulance. Jason smiled as Billy looked at him. "Thanks for the lift John." The man nodded as he closed the back door and climbed into the front.
Billy turned to Jason as they started moving. "How do you know him?"
"He was teaching the First aid class I took. When he found out I taught martial arts to the kids back home, we started talking about kids. His son takes karate at a local school. He also fences, does tumbling, and even dances." He turned to Kim. "Yes, he's a dream so I have heard. Only he does the tap dancing that his mom teaches him. He is apparently her helper when it comes to her dance and tumbling classes."
They were prevented form saying more when the vehicle stopped and John opened the back doors. "Here we are! You kids go find your friend. I hope she is okay. Tell the nurse at the main desk that I sent you in there. They should take you right to her."
"Thanks again John. I hope your son is ok. When we pulled them out, he was still moving and all. It seems she took all the hits by protecting him." Billy smiled weakly and shook his hand. "Feel free to come visit us if he's awake."
John nodded. "I'll tell him. "I'm sure he would like to meet you as well. "Take it easy." He waved as they headed towards eh desk.
Billy turned to Zack as they followed the nurse to Trini's room. "By the way, what was that note?"
Zack shrugged. "Not much. Just that because of the seminar today, Trini and I have enough credits that we are done. We just have to finish our forms tomorrow and then we can go. Apparently Sarah is going home too."
"That's great! I can't wait to see everyone's faces when you guys come home!" Tommy smiled as they stopped in front of the door. Thanks ma'am."
The nurse nodded and walked away. "Well guys, this is it." Billy took a deep breath and walked in. The site before them shocked him to the core. "Trini?"
She smiled and held out a hand. "Hey, I was wondering when you would get here." She looked at her friends. And you brought company!" She laughed as Kim ran over and hugged her. "I'm ok Kim. I've got a few bruised ribs and some big cuts."
Billy smiled. "Well, I have a feeling you will be feeling a lot better when you read this." He handed the note to her and watched as both her and Sarah smiled. "Yep, we are going home."
Trini smiled as Sarah gave her a hug. "That's great. By the way, how is Billy?"
"Who?" Billy looked at Sarah in confusion.
"The little boy I saved. He asked me when the building started to collapse what my name was. When I told him, he said his was William but his parents called him Billy. Then the roof fell in around us. I was hit by a beam and I pulled him under me as I fell." Trini looked up as the door opened. "Hey!"
AN: Well, how did you all like this chapter? Curious about the stranger? Well, review and maybe I'll tell you in the next chapter! Ok, so I will tell you anyway but you can still review and let me know what you think of it!
AN: Thanks to those of you who reviewed, and especially to those of you who let me know that you really like this story. You know who you are. Now, on to the story and please review! Or at least send me an email or something to let me know your thoughts.
Going Home???
The following morning, Zack smiled at Billy. "I have to get to my first class but I will be seeing you at the seminar. Do you know where the auditorium is?"
"When I talked to the desk earlier, they said somebody will be by to show me the way." Billy smiled as a soft knock sounded from the door. He looked at his reflection. "I look like a teacher."
"I think it looks nice!" Trini walked in and kissed his cheek. "I don't know where you are going while we are at class, but you really look nice!"
"Thanks." Billy smiled and went back to going through his backpack. "I got a letter last night asking me to converse with someone today. So I have to go to some meeting."
"Well, will you be able to join us for lunch? After our seminar, we are done for the day." Trini waited for Zack by the door.
"Yeah, I should be done by then. I just have to go do this meeting and then I will be free to do whatever I want or the rest of the time I am here." He smiled as they headed out the door. "I'll see you later Tri."
"See you Billy." She smiled as they headed out the door.
"Now, to get my stuff together and head down to the desk." Billy gathered all the stuff he needed and walked out the door.
FOUR HOURS LATER
"Thanks for showing me around Aaron." Billy shook the man's hand and set his backpack down. "Is everything ready for me?"
"We have everything set up just as you said William." The man motioned to the door next to them. "The curtain is closed so you can go right in and get ready. The instructor will call your friends up to help."
"Thank you. And call me Billy." He saw the man nod as he headed off. He took a deep breath, picked up his backpack, and headed into the room. He could hear the instructor tell the students to take a 5-minute break.
"William?" An older gentleman appeared around the curtain and shook his hand. "Its an honor to meet you."
"Call me Billy." He looked around at his equipment. "I still don't understand why you want me to do this seminar. I mean I am just a student as well."
"We remembered your name form the summit and thought that you would be the best person for it as your friends would be more comfortable with it. After all, you are the only ones here that have actually used all this equipment before and have repeatedly done this kind of stuff." He smiled as Billy looked at his notes. "Your friends always speak highly of you."
"They do?" Billy looked up at the man as he nodded. "I just try to do my best and that's it. I'm no different than anyone else."
"Your instructors back home say different. They all believe you can make it in whatever profession you choose. They all agreed that you would be perfect for the seminar." He watched the boy blush. "I also have another reason for calling on you."
"What's that?" Billy licked his lips as he realized his mouth was suddenly dry. "I'm not the only student who knows how this stuff works am I?"
"Well, you are the only one that I have heard of. But the reason I wanted you is because I work for NASA and I was told that you were a big part of implementing the Wolfpup program." He motioned to the equipment around them. "Is everything as you need it?"
"Yes, thank you." Billy sorted through the overhead sheets that were on the projector. "NASA was more than right about the program. However, I didn't just implement it. I was the one who designed and built it."
"You are a smart young man Billy. I hope I will get a chance to work with you when I get back to NASA." He looked at his watch. "Well, I have to get back to work. I will introduce you after I call your friends up."
Billy nodded as he got ready. He then stood aside as his friends were called up. Smiling, he listened as the instructor told them that they were the only students who had used the equipment the scientist would be using so they were the ones who could assist.
Trini looked over at Zack as the curtain was pulled back. She stared in awe as the instructor introduced Billy. "I don't believe it."
Zack laughed as they joined Billy and was handed his safety equipment. He whispered back as he put them on. "We decided to surprise you with it."
Twenty minutes later, Billy smiled and bowed his head. Their applause made him blush. "Thank you."
"Thank you Billy." The instructor turned to the other students and smiled. "That concludes this seminar. I will get the grades out in two days. Good luck on your finals." He turned back towards Billy and shook his hand. "Remember what I said earlier. If you need anything, just call me up and ask. I've got connections all over NASA and NASADA."
Billy smiled. "I will. Thank you." He put everything away and waited for his friends by the door. He flinched when Trini walked up to him and hit his arm. "What was that for?"
"For not telling me!" She laughed as he pretended to pout. "Come on, let's get some lunch!" She looked around the large cafeteria. "Okay, anyone see an empty table?"
Billy laughed and headed to the far side of the room. "Follow me."
"Only you would find the table in the quiet area of a crowded room!" Zack laughed as they set their stuff down and headed over to get their food.
30 minutes later, Trini put her fork down and sighed. "I don't know about you but I am stuffed." She looked over to see Zack watching her. "What?"
"Nothing. I was just thinking about going home." He smiled and continued watching her.
"But why are you staring at me?" Trini looked over to see Billy laughing. "What's so funny?"
"Don't you see what he's looking at? It's not you, it your hand." Billy saw her smile. "He found out last night."
"I pried it out of him. All I have to say is it's about time!" Zack laughed and kissed her hand. "I say we go out and celebrate."
"Why? We can do that when we tell the others." Trini looked over to see Billy thinking. "What's up Billy?"
"I was just wondering. Do you think I need to get my hair cut?" He saw Trini's brow furrow. "I take that as a yes." He got up and threw his trash out as they did the same. "I think I need to get it trimmed so I can do something with it once we get back."
"That sounds like a plan. Plus, we can get busy on that idea I had!" Trini gathered her things and led them towards the dorm. "Once we get to the shopping center, I want to show you the one store I found. It's kind of hidden and you have to know what to look for."
Zack looked warily at Billy before dropping his bag on his desk. "You can leave your stuff here Tri. And I am not so sure I want to know how you found out about the store."
"That's easy!" Trini set her bag down next to Billy's and followed them out the door. "I was talking to one of the instructors from one of my classes and she showed it to me. It is a store that has to have a license to sell the items in it."
Billy grinned as she looked around and pulled them behind a big display. In front of him was the biggest store he had ever seen. "Wow, I think I'm in heaven." He looked in the window and saw a display of computer parts inside. "Let's go!" He pulled them laughing into the store.
"Miss Kwan, how good to see you again!" A middle-aged woman walked up to them and smiled at Billy. "Mr. Cranston, your reputation precedes you. It's an honor to have such young talent in the store. You can see why we have to keep this store a secret from the rest of the mall."
Billy nodded as they looked around. "Yes, it is an amazing store. I wish we had one back home." He smiled as Zack walked over to a stereo with a screen in it. It would really come in handy with the Youth Center and the schools when they upgrade their systems." He turned towards the computer display he saw through the window. "I would love to have something like this at my dad's company. They handle a bunch of programs for NASA."
The woman smiled. "You live in Angel Grove right?" When they smiled, she laughed. "We actually just opened a new store somewhere between Stone Canyon, Angel Grove, and the NASADA base. Would you like me to get the address for you?"
"That would be great! I can give it to my dad when I return." Billy watched the woman walk away before turning to see Trini admiring something. "You like that?"
Trini looked up at him as Zack rejoined them. "I have always wanted one of these." She held up the tiny Asian inspired lantern. "This is a traditional honor lantern that they use to honor the family members who are not around them." She sighed as she placed it back on the shelf. "Grandma and grandpa have one in their den."
"Then you should have one in your home." Billy smiled as he picked up the boxed lantern below it. "I mean, you are so close to them and yet you never see them. It's only fair that you have something to honor them as well."
"Man, you are already spoiling her man!" Zack laughed as the lady returned with a sheet of paper.
Here you go Mr. Cranston. This sheet has all the directions for the store. And they are having a contest as well for the first month. If you buy anything, your name is automatically put in for it." She smiled as Billy took the paper. "Enjoy your time in here. When you are ready, just ring and I will have someone check you out."
Billy nodded as she left. "Man, my dad will love this." He put the paper in his pocket and began to look around. "Now, what all could we use for your plan Trini?"
Two hours later, Billy smiled as he peeked out from their position. "Coast is clear." They walked out into the mall. "This plan is going to be so much fun tri." They walked over to the salon. "Now, what should we do about our hair?"
Zack laughed. "Man, you are starting to sound like the girls Billy!" When he received a smack on his arm, he smiled. "Just cut it to what you usually get."
"No, I have a better idea." Trini walked over to the man at the desk and began to talk. The man smiled and nodded and led them over to a chair. "Go ahead Billy. I told him what to do."
Billy handed his bag to Zack and sat down. "Ok, let's see what you got."
Trini looked up from her salon chair as some of the other girls around her whistled. "Wow!" She smiled up at Billy as he stopped in front of her. "He did more than I told him to."
Billy grinned. "I think I like this better than the one I got back home." He turned to see Zack coming back from his chair. "Hey Zack. Looks like we got what we wanted."
Zack stared at him. His wide eyes showed his friends how surprised he was. "Whoa man! You look like..." He shook his head. "You are going to give your dad a heart attack!"
Billy laughed and ran a hand through his hair. "I think I look just like him."
"Like him? You look like his twin!" Trini smiled up at the lady behind her as she handed her a mirror. "Wow, that looks great! Thank you!"
"Trini, you look just like your mom." Zack looked over at Trini. "Do I look like my dad?"
"Yes, they will all flip when they see us." Billy smiled as they gathered their things and headed over to the desk. "Trini, didn't you say you had to meet Sarah somewhere?"
"Oh my god, I forgot about that!" She ran outside to a phone. A few minutes later, she smiled as they walked up to her. "Ok, I will see you in a few." She hung up the phone and turned towards them. "Would you guys mind taking my stuff back to your room? Sarah is going to meet me here."
"Sure. We will see you later I guess." Billy kissed her before following Zack. Once back in their room, Billy sighed. "Hey Zack, you really think our plan will work?"
"Absolutely man!" He lay back on his bed and turned his stereo on. "I think it will really freak out our folks but they will laugh in the end."
"Yeah. I guess so. I can't wait to get back and surprise them all." Billy leaned back and closed his eyes. The songs washed over him with their soft beats and he found himself getting drowsy. "Man, I am starting to get tired."
"I know. Maybe I should find some other music to keep us awake." He turned the knob on hi stereo and smiled as his favorite artist sang through the speakers. "Now, that's more like it!"
Billy laughed as she stood up and walked over to the window. "That's better. That should..." He trailed off as he looked across campus. "Oh my god!"
Zack immediately turned his stereo off and joined him at the window. "Wasn't Sarah going to be joining Trini there?" He turned to see Billy running out the door. "I take that as a yes." He ran after his friend.
When they got to the crowd around the mall, Billy stopped. Sarah was helping a woman to sit down. She glanced up as Billy walked over to them. "I'm so glad you're here."
"What happened?" Billy caught the bottle of water Zack threw at him and handed it to the lady. "Where's Trini?"
"She went to get my son." The lady looked up at him. "These young girls heard me calling for him and your friend said she thought she saw him. This young lady told me she would take care of him so I came out with her. But then the building collapsed. Right after we made it through the door." She began to sob uncontrollably.
Billy nodded and looked around. Seeing who he thought was in charge, he found it ironic that it was the very instructor who was teaching the seminar that afternoon. "Are you in charge?"
"Yes Billy. What do you need?" The man looked over to see Zack helping Sarah to comfort the woman. "Where is Trini?"
Billy looked at him and motioned to the collapsed building in front of them. "She left Sarah to help that lady while she went to get the lady's son. They were somewhere inside when the building collapsed."
"I'm so very sorry Billy. I can't do much more than to help the men dig through the rubble." He pointed to a pile near the main entrance. "Start there." He turned back to Billy. "If you would like to start digging in another area with some other volunteers, you can do so."
"Thank you." He went back to Zack and Sarah. "Zack, I want you to help me find some students to help the crew dig through the rubble for survivors and the injured. Sarah, you stay here with..." He looked down at the lady. "What's your name?"
"My name is Kimberly. You can call me Kim." She saw Billy look at Zack. "Is there something wrong?"
Billy shook her hand. "We have ea very good friend back home named Kim. She is like a sister to me. We will do everything we can to help find your son."
"Thank you. He isn't one to run away but when we heard what sounded like a bomb or something, we got separated when people started racing for the door. He would go to whoever he feels would be safest to be with if not with me." She sighed as Sarah put an arm around her. "I appreciate everything you kids are doing."
"Hey, we do it back at home in Angel Grove so we are use to it." Billy stood up. "Let's go Zack."
Within five minutes, they had found a number of students and had begun to dig near the rescue crew. Billy stopped when he found a small hand sticking through a pile of rocks. He was surprised to turn around and see 3 beams of light appear near him and Zack. The red one appeared right next to him.
"Heard you may need some help." The red ranger stepped up to him and motioned to the pink and white rangers. "The others are fighting some monster."
"Thanks. We could use some help. We need to lift that heavy boulder off that woman immediately." Billy pointed to the hand he had found. He looked around and saw the instructor and rescue crew watching them." The rangers are here to help us." They all smiled and returned to their work. Billy leaned in and whispered so nobody could here them. "Help me with this boulder. I HAVE to get her out."
The red ranger nodded and looked around. "Where's Trini? And how do you know it's a female?" He helped Billy move the boulder off the girl and immediately saw a small boy stick his head out from under the woman's body." Is the mother dead?" He helped the boy up and watched as Billy knelt down next to the woman.
Billy felt for a pulse and began to cry. "The woman is not the mother. She is with Sarah. And no, she isn't dead."
"If its not the mom, who is it?" Jason handed the boy over to the instructor and turned to see Billy carefully lift the girl and carry her to a stretcher.
"You know who it is Jase." Billy set her down and wiped the hair from her face. The shocked gasp behind him made him turn. "Zack, tell Sarah and Kim to go with this ambulance to the hospital. The boy is with Trini."
Zack nodded and ran off to their friend. "Jase, help me with the rest of the digging."
Jason nodded slowly as the ambulance pulled away. "Is she going to be ok?"
Billy shrugged as he walked over to the white and pink rangers. "Yes that was Trini. Help us get the rest of the people out and then we will all go to the hospital." They nodded and resumed their digging.
Billy sat down and took a sip of water form his water bottle as the rest of the rescue teams walked away from the rubble. "I can't believe we got everyone out in only 5 hours. This town really loves to help."
Zack smiled as the rangers walked up to them. "Yeah, that's why they chose this town for the conferences. Thanks for the help guys. You should all get back home though."
Adam nodded. "Yeah, we will go. Jason, Kim, and Tommy will stay with you guys. That way they can tell us what's going on when they get back."
The rangers teleported out as Billy was approached by a big man. "I heard you were the one that found my son and that girl. "Would you come with me to the hospital Mr. Cranston?"
Billy was shocked. "How do you know my name?"
"I was there when you did your presentation this afternoon. I am a volunteer at the conferences. In the off time, I am head of rescue ops for this town. When the conferences end, I go back to my full time job as head of emergency services for the whole town." He held out his hand. "My son was with me and heard the whole seminar. He wants to be just like you he says."
"Wow, thanks. I don't want to be a bother though. My friends and I are all waiting for our other friends before heading to the hospital. That girl who saved your son was my girlfriend."
"Well, I drove this ambulance so I can wait for you. Besides, I still have a few things to do around here before I go. Just come find me when they are here. I can give you all a lift." He looked up as a man approached them. "Excuse me."
Billy looked at Zack as Jason, Tommy, and Kim joined them. "We have a ride to the hospital."
Zack smiled weakly as he took a paper from Jason. "What's this?"
"The director of the conferences saw me and told me to give this to you. He thinks I am here visiting you guys for the weekend." Jason nodded to the man that joined them. "Hey John, didn't think I'd see you again!" He shook hands with him and smiled.
"Hi Jason. "I didn't know you knew these two." He nodded to Billy and Zack. "I offered them a ride to the hospital. I am finished here is you are joining them."
"Yeah, and these are two of our closest friends Kim and Tommy." The man nodded to them as they all headed for the ambulance. Jason smiled as Billy looked at him. "Thanks for the lift John." The man nodded as he closed the back door and climbed into the front.
Billy turned to Jason as they started moving. "How do you know him?"
"He was teaching the First aid class I took. When he found out I taught martial arts to the kids back home, we started talking about kids. His son takes karate at a local school. He also fences, does tumbling, and even dances." He turned to Kim. "Yes, he's a dream so I have heard. Only he does the tap dancing that his mom teaches him. He is apparently her helper when it comes to her dance and tumbling classes."
They were prevented form saying more when the vehicle stopped and John opened the back doors. "Here we are! You kids go find your friend. I hope she is okay. Tell the nurse at the main desk that I sent you in there. They should take you right to her."
"Thanks again John. I hope your son is ok. When we pulled them out, he was still moving and all. It seems she took all the hits by protecting him." Billy smiled weakly and shook his hand. "Feel free to come visit us if he's awake."
John nodded. "I'll tell him. "I'm sure he would like to meet you as well. "Take it easy." He waved as they headed towards eh desk.
Billy turned to Zack as they followed the nurse to Trini's room. "By the way, what was that note?"
Zack shrugged. "Not much. Just that because of the seminar today, Trini and I have enough credits that we are done. We just have to finish our forms tomorrow and then we can go. Apparently Sarah is going home too."
"That's great! I can't wait to see everyone's faces when you guys come home!" Tommy smiled as they stopped in front of the door. Thanks ma'am."
The nurse nodded and walked away. "Well guys, this is it." Billy took a deep breath and walked in. The site before them shocked him to the core. "Trini?"
She smiled and held out a hand. "Hey, I was wondering when you would get here." She looked at her friends. And you brought company!" She laughed as Kim ran over and hugged her. "I'm ok Kim. I've got a few bruised ribs and some big cuts."
Billy smiled. "Well, I have a feeling you will be feeling a lot better when you read this." He handed the note to her and watched as both her and Sarah smiled. "Yep, we are going home."
Trini smiled as Sarah gave her a hug. "That's great. By the way, how is Billy?"
"Who?" Billy looked at Sarah in confusion.
"The little boy I saved. He asked me when the building started to collapse what my name was. When I told him, he said his was William but his parents called him Billy. Then the roof fell in around us. I was hit by a beam and I pulled him under me as I fell." Trini looked up as the door opened. "Hey!"
AN: Well, how did you all like this chapter? Curious about the stranger? Well, review and maybe I'll tell you in the next chapter! Ok, so I will tell you anyway but you can still review and let me know what you think of it!