Power Rangers SPD: Year Two

by D.Nic

A deadly threat escapes containment and wreaks havoc on Newtech City, leaving SPD battered and bruised. Nothing will ever be the same, as they struggle to come together to defeat this new enemy. Completed!

14. Assassination

POWER RANGERS: SPACE PATROL DELTA
YEAR TWO

"ASSASSINATION"

Anubis "Doggie" Cruger had been sitting in the same chair for almost two hours, he realized. He stared to his right at the wall, where he saw his Shadow Saber hung. He had appreciated the gesture from Kat to have it here in his quarters, while he recuperated, to help influence a speedy recovery. Cruger looked to his left at the other wall of his quarters. On that wall hung a framed picture that had been there for almost a year.

In that photo, he was standing in the middle of a crowd, with his Shadow Saber raised high in one hand. His other arm was around his wife, Isinia. The rest of B-Squad was gathered around them. He remembered Kat taking the photo a few minutes after he had contained Gruumm. He only wished that he could do the same to Omallix now.

It was then that his eyes veered to two of the cadets in that photograph. Standing next to Jack Landors was the morphed Omega Ranger. Cruger shook his head, thinking of all that they had told him. He had been out of the loop for almost two weeks, thanks to Cartiron's attack. When he learned that Jack had become the Omega Ranger, apparently against his will, Cruger knew he had to do something. But, there was nothing he could do from his quarters.

He was still confined to bed rest. Besides the chair he now resided in, the only other place he had been was his bedroom. Two weeks was too long. Sky & Kat had informed him that things were quiet, but he didn't know whether he could trust that. They could have been lying to protect him from going back on duty too soon. Cruger had spent a lot of time thinking about Jack. He was still part of this family and he needed their help.

Cruger let out a low growl and stood up gingerly from his chair. He walked at a slow pace towards the exit from his quarters. This was his opportunity to get back in the scheme of things around here. He had been idle for too long. The doors opened and Cruger almost jumped back, surprised at the arriving figure in front of him.

"Where do you think you're going?"

Cruger sighed, seeing his wife appear. "Isinia, I thought you were working at the shelter?"

"I was. I needed the commander's signature on some supply requests," Isinia said, as she gently pushed Cruger back inside, leading him back to his chair. She handed him the electronic pad. Cruger authorized it with a quick fingerprint.

"So, things are going well down in the shelter?" Cruger inquired, half-heartedly.

"Don't change the subject, Anubis," Isinia said, giving him a serious look. "You didn't answer my question. Where were you going?"

"I was just going to try to take a walk," Cruger said, lying and knowing his wife could tell.

Isinia sighed. "It's too soon," she said.

"No. It's not," Cruger replied.

"You've only been out of the Infirmary for four days," Isinia said. "Dr. Sevarus wants you to take it easy."

"I have," Cruger said, sternly. "But, it's been almost two weeks since the incident. I'm better and I need to feel like I'm doing something around here. My Rangers are fighting a battle and I can't let them do it alone."

"You can't help them if you're still hurt. Besides, Kat told me things have died down since Jack's escape. The Rangers haven't been called out on any emergencies concerning Omallix since then," Isinia explained.

"She told me that too," Cruger said, quietly.

"Then, you have nothing to worry about," Isinia said.

"I'll never stop worrying about them," Cruger said. "Jack is up there with Omallix, whose taken great pleasure in tormenting us all. I can only imagine the things he's done to him. Now, we know he has Dr. Felix as well. Things aren't getting any better."

"I just want you to get better," Isinia said, as she headed for the door. She looked back, giving her husband a loving nod, before exiting.

Cruger sighed again. He loved his wife and he knew her intentions were good, but he was never going to get better by sitting around doing nothing. As if on cue, Cruger's contemplation was interrupted by the sound of the Delta Command Base's communications systems.

"Commander Cruger, you have an incoming transmission."

Cruger heard Kat's voice and was taken aback, surprised.

"You're kidding," Cruger spoke into the air, knowing Kat could hear him in the Command Center. "You're actually going to let me get an outside communication?"

"Sir, it's Supreme Commander Birdy," Kat explained. "He's assured me that his message is one of peace."

"Patch him through in here, Kat," Cruger said, as he turned in his chair to face his desk that had been set up there, to help him do some work while he was out of commission.

Cruger wondered what Birdy could want, as the Supreme Commander's face appeared on the computer terminal screen.

"Supreme Commander, it's a pleasure," Cruger said.

"Anubis, it's good to see you in one piece. I heard about the attack. Everyone here at Galaxy Command sends you our best wishes," Birdy said.

"Thank you, sir. I appreciate it," Cruger said. "Although to be honest, I'm feeling a bit bored here."

"Well, I was under the impression that you were still recovering," Birdy said.

"I am. But, things would go a little quicker if I were allowed to actually leave my quarters," Cruger said, jokingly. "I have a mutiny on my hands around here."

"Well, I'm glad I called then," Birdy said, happily. "Maybe it's time for a little vacation, Anubis."

"A vacation? We're in the middle of a war, sir," Cruger said sternly.

"The Galactic Council was very moved by your presentation to them. They have been monitoring the situation on Earth, through me and given your response to Cartiron's latest attack, the Council has decided to honor you with the Galactic Spirit Award," Birdy revealed.

Cruger looked confused.

"Excuse me?" he responded.

"It's a great honor, Anubis," Birdy said.

"Sir, I'm not sure if the Council's been paying attention but Cartiron almost killed me and half of this city. My survival doesn't warrant an award," Cruger said.

"It's more than that, Anubis," Birdy explained. "The Council feels you should be rewarded for your leadership of S.P.D. Earth. They've taken all of your years of faithful service into consideration. You were an obvious choice. The ceremony will be held here on Andrus III, near Galaxy Command. It will give you some time to get away."

"Thank you, sir, but I respectfully decline," Cruger said. "We've got too much to deal with around here. One of my Rangers is in grave danger. I don't have time for celebrations."

Deep down, Cruger held tight to that belief, which he knew to be true. Besides, there was no way he would ever forgive himself for indulging the Council in a public display of their generosity when they didn't agree to send Earth reinforcements in this deadly conflict with Omallix. Some part of him knew this was the Council's way of showing the galaxy that they weren't ignoring Earth's plight...while ignoring the true needs of Cruger's branch of S.P.D. They needed help, not awards.

Elsewhere in the Delta Command Base, E-Squad was returning from their training session. Most of them were sweating from the rigorous activity. E-Squad's most popular cadet, Boom, was right in the middle of them, running his mouth, as he tended to do often. He entertained E-Squad with tales from the Troobian conflict and how integral he was to helping S.P.D. overcome. He had just finished telling them all about how he discovered the transmission from the future that led to Omega Ranger's first appearance in their time. As his squad mates were walking and commenting on his storytelling skills, they passed a corridor.

Out of the corner of his eye, Boom saw a vital character from his story. He stopped dead in his tracks, as the others in his squad barely noticed. He scurried back to look down the hall, but the figure he saw was gone. Boom shook his head repeatedly, peering down the hallway. Cadet Theena Worley turned, seeing Boom had stopped. She jogged back to his position.

"Hey, come on. Aren't you hungry?" she asked him.

"Uh, yeah," Boom said, still looking confused.

"What?" Worley asked as she looked down the hall trying to see what caught Boom's attention.

"It's nothing," Boom said, shaking his head. "I guess my story got me thinking about Omega Ranger."

"Well, come on. We're falling behind," Worley said, grabbing Boom's arm and dragging him off down the hallway.

Behind them, at the end of the corridor that caught Boom's attention, the Omega Ranger materialized through a wall, staring in all directions. Jack had been detected, but it didn't appear to be long enough to cause suspicion. Still, he wouldn't take anymore chances today. It was time to go home. He phased through an outer wall, which sent him flying right out of the base. He landed on the ground on the side of the building. He raised the small metallic device in his right hand.

"I'm ready," he spoke plainly.

In seconds, a teleportation beam scooped him up and carried him off to Omallix's base in space. He arrived in the main throne room, where Omallix, Cartiron, Charlie & Jintari were all waiting to hear his report. Omallix rose from his throne upon seeing Jack's arrival.

"How are things inside Space Patrol Delta?" he asked his warrior.

"They seem normal," Jack said bluntly. "They are training, working to find a way to influence me, master."

"I see," Omallix said, as he shared a glance with Jintari. "What about Cruger?"

"He lives. He appears to be almost fully recovered from his injuries," Jack said sternly. He pounded one fist in his other hand. "My master, why did you not order me to destroy him while I had the chance?"

"All in due time, Omega Ranger," Omallix said, giving him a shifty look. "We must deal with these things one step at a time."

"I've been watching the Rangers secretly for over a week. Don't you think it's time to strike?" Jack spoke out.

"One step at a time," Omallix repeated, more sternly. "You have been keeping your distance from the Rangers, haven't you?"

"Yes, but if I were allowed to get closer I might find more weaknesses," Jack grumbled.

"No. I told you to keep your distance for a reason. You will continue to follow my orders," Omallix stated.

The Omega Ranger nodded at him. Omallix then turned his attention to Charlie.

"Speaking of orders," Omallix started, as he got very close to Charlie, glaring at her eyes. "There is another matter we must deal with. Charlie, Jintari, come with me. Cartiron, check on our troops down below. We don't want them getting restless just because I've found a new more powerful soldier."

"Yes, master," Cartiron responded before leaving.

Omallix exited in the opposite direction, followed by Jintari and Charlie. Left alone in the master throne room, the Omega Ranger turned his attention to the glass wall in front of the room. He walked over to it and looked out at the large floating planet Earth. His enemies resided there, just as he had before. He remembered that much.

"Maybe destroying them will help bring back all of my memory," Jack said darkly to himself.

Upstairs, Omallix, Jintari & Charlie were headed for the main laboratory. Charlie looked very nervous. Jintari conversed with their leader.

"Omallix, I'm curious. Why did you ask Jack to keep his distance from the other Rangers?" he asked.

"Frankly, his last performance left me a bit unsettled as to his allegiance," Omallix responded.

"But sir, he is yours to command. I've made sure of it," Jintari said.

"Your skills have failed us before," Omallix said bluntly. Jintari looked surprised. "I don't want any more failures..." He turned to glance back at Charlie. "...From anyone."

Charlie took a deep breath.

"I can't apologize enough for Sam's escape, my lord," she spoke sincerely.

Omallix stopped in his tracks in the hallway. He turned to face Charlie, who had been walking a few feet behind him and Jintari. He put a stern finger up to halt her speaking.

"Your actions were disappointing, Charlie," Omallix said. "But, I can tell from the fear you've exuded towards me for the last few days that you regret your actions. Your fear shows your truth."

"Yes sir," Charlie said.

"But, you see, Dr. Felix is a different story," Omallix said. "He has lost his fear. That is why I ordered that no one have contact with him this past week. Felix's fear may be gone, but we cannot be rid of the doctor completely...not yet."

Omallix continued down the hallway, stopping only for a moment to key in his access code for the laboratory. The doors slid open and he walked inside, flanked by Charlie and his science wizard, Jintari. The three looked around the room and spotted Felix crouched in a far corner, sitting with his legs crossed staring up at the ceiling. His eyes looked bloodshot. He was weary, as if he was in a trance.

"Doctor," Omallix shouted.

Felix slowly lowered his head to face the trio. He didn't speak a word.

"Felix, you look like crap," Charlie said, sarcastically.

"You haven't been getting much sleep," Jintari added. "Afraid of what we might learn while you dream?"

Felix simply stared, silently.

"You are being awfully quiet, Doctor," Omallix said, as his voice seemed to get progressively more angry. "Speak!"

"I refuse."

"You refuse what?" Charlie asked.

"Anything, everything," Felix said. "I won't sleep. I won't eat. I won't help you."

"Oh please," Jintari said rudely.

"So you intend to become a martyr, Doctor?" Omallix said darkly. "I can make that dream a reality for you."

"I don't care," Felix said. "Kill me."

"Have you forgotten just what we did to Jack Landors?" Jintari said, fed up with Felix's behavior. "I made him bend to our will. Don't think for a second that I couldn't do the same to you."

"Then, why don't you?" Felix said, casting his steely gaze upon the short green alien.

"I need your brain intact, Doctor. I will let you continue on this self-imposed protest for now. But when we need your expertise, we will have it, one way or another," Omallix said, before storming out, followed quickly by Jintari.

Charlie stayed behind for a moment. She locked eyes with Felix and shook her head.

"It's time for you to find your fear again, Felix. Omallix won't play these games for long," she said.

Felix merely stared at her until she left.

"Can you believe that?" Cruger said, as he locked eyes with Kat inside her laboratory.

"I can believe just about anything when it comes from the Galactic Council these days," Kat said. "Their decisions haven't necessarily shown a tremendous amount of logic where we're concerned."

"Well, I told Birdy I wasn't interested," Cruger said. "I won't be their public relations pawn."

"Good for you," Kat said. "I'm glad to see you up and around."

Cruger leaned a little closer to her.

"Don't tell my wife," Cruger whispered.

Kat looked stunned. "Isinia doesn't know you're here?"

"And you're not going to tell her," Cruger answered.

"Sir, you are putting me in a very dangerous position," Kat said, with a grin.

"You should be used to it by now," Cruger said, with a chuckle.

"Glad to see your sense of humor is back too, sir," Kat said.

"It's hard to smile knowing Jack's out there, in Omallix's hands," Cruger said, as his tone became more serious.

"Felix too," Kat added.

"What have you come up with?"

"Well," Kat explained. "I've studied all of the data that I was able to collect from Jack himself when we had him here at the base. From what Z's told me, he had some cloudy memories of us and who we were. He seemed to recognize the cadets, but not exactly who they were to him. He saw us as the enemy."

"Mind control?" Cruger wondered.

"That's the best guess. Jintari's not known for his human sciences skills, though. He's more of a technical mind. Technology is his specialty. So, if he's indeed responsible for what's going in Jack's head, I'm pretty confident we can reverse whatever he's done," Kat explained.

"That's good," Cruger said.

"Yes. Dr. Sevarus and I have been working on several memory wiping techniques. It's served a two-fold purpose. The first is that I've been able to become more versed in the biology aspects of it all. Secondly, we've been able to explore ways of reversing some of the more common mind control techniques," Kat explained.

"Anything promising?" Cruger asked.

"Well, Dr Sevarus said he'd need to examine Jack before knowing if he can cure him, so I've turned my main attention to getting Jack," Kat said. "I'm working on some devices that might allow us to neutralize him without doing too much harm. I hesitate to call it a weapon given that this is Jack we're talking about using it on."

"Well, at this point, we don't have much choice," Cruger said. "I saw the video of Jack's attack on the Rangers. His grasp and use of the Omega Ranger powers was amazing."

"Too bad we didn't think of it first," Kat said, sensing what Cruger was thinking.

Cruger gave her a somber nod, as he headed for the exit.

"Keep me posted. I've got to get back to my quarters before my wife gets home."

"Yes sir," Kat said, with a smile.

Cruger was almost home free. He turned down the corridor that led to his quarters. He hadn't heard any alarms or alerts since he left Kat's lab, so he figured Isinia must still be at the shelter. Cruger began to quicken his pace. He felt better after talking to Kat. He felt more normal. He needed to be back in the thick of things around here. Then, a figure turned into the corridor from behind him, putting a hand on his shoulder. Cruger jumped a bit, surprised. He turned and took a deep breath.

"Sky," Cruger said. "I thought you were...someone else."

"Mrs. Cruger?" Sky asked, with a smile.

"What's up?"

"I was just on my way to see you, sir. How are you feeling?" Sky asked.

"Better. I met with Kat. It felt good to be doing something," Cruger said, as they began walking down the corridor towards the Commander's quarters.

"Glad to hear it, sir. We'll all feel a lot better when you're officially back on duty," Sky revealed.

"Thank you, Sky," Cruger said, nodding at him. "You said you wanted to see me?"

"Yeah. Sir, I was going through my father's old records and log entries, like you suggested," Sky explained.

"Did you find anything?"

"Well, I didn't find anything that could help with the Omallix case. But, I did find something a little strange. A few of my father's personal log entries were missing. It looks like they were deleted by someone," Sky said.

"Yes. I noticed that when I looked through them as well," Cruger said, as he sighed.

"So you didn't delete them?" Sky said, looking confused.

"No," Cruger stated, nodding his head negatively.

"Well, sir, if you didn't delete them, then that means my father did," Sky said curiously, as they reached Cruger's quarters.

The doors slid open and Cruger stepped inside the threshold, turning to Sky who was still standing in the corridor.

"He's the only other person who had access to them," Cruger explained.

"But why would he do that? The dates on those missing entries came from the weeks leading up to Omallix's capture," Sky said.

"I don't know. Your father must have had a good reason. I do remember him keeping to himself around that time. He got more single-minded when most of his team retired, preferring to work alone. I'm sorry the records can't be of more help with our current situation," Cruger said, somberly.

"It just doesn't make any sense," Sky said.

"I agree," Cruger said. "It's not like your father to do something that drastic."

Sky sighed, as Cruger nodded to him and closed the doors to his quarters. Sky looked troubled, as he stood in that corridor alone.

An hour later, Sky, Syd Drew, Quinn Gray, Z Delgado and Bridge Carson were all at various stations in the Command Center, monitoring the city for disturbances. Kat had just told them some interesting news.

"An award? Really?" Bridge said aloud.

"He's not taking it," Kat told the group of cadets in the Command Center.

"I don't see why not," Syd said. "It's a prestigious honor."

"That's true, but Commander Cruger feels it sends the wrong message. We're in the middle of a war," Kat said.

"I agree with him," Z spoke up from her station, somberly. "This is no time for celebrations."

"Well award or no award, I'll just be glad to have Commander Cruger back on duty," Quinn said, as the others nodded along, agreeing with him. "Any idea when he'll be back full-time?"

"No. I guess that's ultimately up to Dr. Sevarus," Kat answered.

"Well, I know if it were up to Cruger, he'd be in that chair right now," Sky said.

"And we'd be happy to have him," Syd said. She thought for a few seconds. "Still, the Galactic Spirit Award is huge. I've always dreamed of what it would be like to win something like that."

As the Rangers continued to chat amongst themselves, they never knew they were being watched, spied on by a friend who was hell-bent on destroying them all. Jack phased himself back through the back wall of the Command Center and found he was standing on the bridge of the Delta Command Megazord. He nodded his head affirmatively, before disappearing through the walls, creating his own exit.

Next door, in the Command Center, Syd glanced at Sky, who was working at the station next to hers. She saw his troubled look.

"Something wrong?" she asked. Her tone was low and quiet. None of the others heard her.

"Still thinking about my dad and his logs," Sky answered. "I just don't understand why he would delete any of his entries. He was such a professional. Even Cruger thought it was out of character for him."

"Hmm," Syd hummed curiously. "Well, obviously they were deleted before he died. Maybe someone who knew him back then might know. You should ask Quinn about it."

"Why would I ask Gray?" Sky looked confused.

"His mom knew Sky's dad. They were on the same team," Syd said, giving Sky an obvious look.

Sky sighed and turned from his station, seeing Quinn working on the other side of the room with Z.

"Hey, Quinn, can I talk to you?" Sky called out.

"Uh, sure," Quinn said, as he walked over, joining Syd & Sky at Sky's station. "What's going on? Did I do something wrong?"

"No," Sky said. "I'm just curious about something. How well did your mother know my dad?"

"She was on Officer Tate's team. She didn't talk about him much when I was growing up," Quinn said. "Kat told me she was really upset when he died though. They were good friends, before she resigned."

"When was that?" Sky asked.

"When she & my dad found out she was pregnant, so it was about nine months before I was born," Quinn said. "Seventeen years ago."

"Omallix was brought in fifteen years ago," Syd said, as she did the math in her head. "Officer Gray had already retired by then."

"So, I guess she wouldn't know," Sky surmised.

"Know what?" Quinn asked.

"Some of my father's personal logs are missing from his files. They were recorded around the time Omallix was captured fifteen years ago. I thought they might give me some idea on how to stop him, but I can't seem to find anything of relevance from that time," Sky said.

"And you think the information's in the missing logs?" Quinn asked, curiously.

"Doesn't really matter now anyway," Sky said. "The logs are gone. My dad deleted them for some reason that I just can't figure out."

"It's too bad," Syd said. "That could have been the clue we needed to Omallix's weakness."

Sky gave her a serious look, as he was still baffled by his father's actions all those years ago. Why would a man who had dedicated his life to S.P.D., even at the expense of his family, delete vital information about an investigation?

Aboard Omallix's base, the evil villain and the green alien Jintari entered the main throne room. Jintari heard a beeping alert from his station and scurried over, tapping in a few controls. Omallix stood in the middle of the room, glancing out the glass wall at the view of Earth.

"What is it?" he asked.

"Omega Ranger is ready to come home," Jintari said.

Moments later, a teleportation beam deposited the Ranger in front of Omallix. The evil villain stared at Jack's helmet, as if he could see into his eyes, even though he could not, thanks to the helmet.

"Any news?" Omallix asked his soldier.

"I got closer to the Rangers and I discovered—"

Jack was cut off by Omallix, who was clearly upset.

"I told you to keep your distance from them!" Omallix yelled. "I will not have them taking you away from me!"

"They didn't know I was there," Jack yelled back.

Jintari, feeling secure in his handiwork with Jack's brain quickly scurried over, standing between them. His small stature, however, couldn't do much to block the glare that the two were sharing.

"My lord, the Omega Ranger was undetected. The Rangers did not know he was there," Jintari said. "I'm sure you can forgive his eagerness. He was only trying to please you, sir."

Omallix sighed. He walked back over to his throne and sat down, slamming his fist on the armrest of his throne.

"What did you discover?" Omallix said.

"Well, it appears that Cruger is close to returning to duty. They want to award him for his bravery against your forces," Jack explained. His tone was dark and disgusted, much like the rest of Omallix's forces when discussing S.P.D.

"Reward him?" Omallix spoke angrily.

"Yes. A Galactic Spirit Award. The Rangers seemed...proud," Jack said grimly.

"Just when I think I've broken their spirits, they find ways to revive them," Omallix muttered, as he stood from his throne. "This will not be one of those times."

"According to them, Cruger has refused," Jack said.

"Knowing how human he's become, he will probably accept it anyway after some attempt to seem superior and above it," Jintari said under his breath.

"Yes and when he does, it will prove to be their downfall," Omallix said, as he began pacing around the room.

"Sir?" Jintari asked, confused.

"Cruger's already been battered and bruised, but it's time to destroy his spirit and the spirit of the S.P.D. Rangers, once and for all," Omallix said, angrily, as his mind was already forming a plan of attack.

All was quiet inside Space Patrol Delta Headquarters. Doggie Cruger was preparing to sit down to a meal with his wife, Isinia. Kat was busy at work in her lab, once again going over her exam reports of Jack from his time in the holding cell. B-Squad was returning from an afternoon training session. The five cadets plopped down on the couches in the Rec Room. The sounds of relaxed voices and anticipated meals were interrupted by the blaring sound of Omallix's voice, booming through the communications systems of Space Patrol Delta. Every being within S.P.D.'s Earth structures could hear Omallix's chilling words.

The last time he had used this method of communication was the day he escaped from prison and called out the Rangers to face him. He was preparing to call them out once again. But this time, his target was just one of S.P.D.'s warriors.

"Space Patrol Delta!"

Every head raised at the sound of the voice. Every ear opened a little more and the tension levels within S.P.D. skyrocketed in a matter of moments. B-Squad jumped to their feet, as did Cruger in his quarters.

"It's been a while since I've been able to talk with the entirety of S.P.D. It's too bad, because the last time I did so was so refreshing. It was like I could feel the fear emanating through the communications link. It's good to feel that again," Omallix stated, calm and fearless.

"It has come to my attention that one of your own is being rewarded for his actions since my escape. I fear that your benefactors are not aware that I am still free and intend to destroy not only you but your entire Earth organization," Omallix said.

"Doggie Cruger!" Omallix shouted.

The sound of him saying her husband's voice sent a shiver down Isinia's spine.

"I hope you accept this award, because it will prove to be your last. S.P.D. has no room for awards, no room for happiness and no room for celebration. Remember the last celebration you planned? The guest of honor was awarded with death," Omallix yelled.

Quinn winced at hearing that. The look of anger on his face was obvious to his fellow Rangers.

"Attend another ceremony and I will guarantee you the same thing, only this time my greatest warrior will do the deed. You know him well. How perfect would it be for the Rangers' downfall to come at the hands of one of their own," Omallix said. "If you choose to attend this celebration, then S.P.D.'s leader will find himself the next casualty on my list."

And as suddenly as his transmission began, it was over. Now, things truly were quiet in Space Patrol Delta. No one said anything; many dared not breathe, wondering if Omallix's dark evil voice would interrupt again. In the Rec Room, Sky grabbed the towel lying on his shoulder, which he had used to wipe the sweat from their workout. He balled it up in his hand and threw it on the floor in anger.

In his quarters, Doggie Cruger merely stared forward. Isinia sat in the chair next to him at the table and looked into his eyes. In that moment, she saw something that scared her more than anything else did. She had a bad feeling about what her husband might do next and an even greater fear that it would lead to his death.

"Omallix is bold. I will give him that," Supreme Commander Fowler Birdy spoke from the computer terminal in Cruger's quarters.

"He knows that threatening us will raise the stakes, again," Cruger responded.

"Maybe they need to be raised," Birdy said, as his mind was thinking hard about something.

"What do you mean, sir?" Cruger asked.

"Omallix openly threatened you if you attend. Why not disobey? Show him that we don't cower in the face of threats," Birdy said.

"That's a valiant suggestion, sir, but Omallix has proven that he takes no remorse in making good on his promises," Cruger explained.

"You told me that Dr. Manx and Dr. Sevarus are working on a way to bring Jack in. Why not use the ceremony to get it done?" Birdy inquired.

"That's too dangerous," Cruger said. "We can't risk something happening at a public event like that."

"I'm not so sure," Birdy said. "From what you could decipher in Omallix's threat, he's planning on sending Jack. That will lure him out into the open. We can spring our own trap and finally get Landors back on our side."

"It's still a big risk," Cruger said.

"Well, it might still be worth it," Birdy said. "It's up to you in the end, Cruger. It's your butt on the line. But, the Galactic Council President will be here and in attendance. If he were to see what S.P.D. Earth is up against, he might be persuaded to reconsider diverting some extra help your way."

Cruger's eyes narrowed on the image of Birdy. He was an opportunist, Cruger knew. But, this was an opportunity that could lead to major trouble or salvation for one of their own.

In the Command Center, overlapping voices could be heard. There was only one topic of discussion, but there were many different opinions.

"So what are we going to do? Nothing?" Z said, loudly, looking at Kat who was standing at the main control console in the middle of the room, surrounded by the B-Squad cadets. "Omallix called us out."

"What can we do?" Bridge said. "He's proven that he can take anything we have to throw at him."

"Still, we can't sit back and let this slide, for Commander Cruger's sake," Quinn added.

"It's an open target. He's basically daring Cruger to go. I think it's too risky," Syd retorted.

"I agree. We can't risk Cruger's safety," Sky said.

"What about Jack? Are we giving up on bringing him home?" Z spoke out.

"Of course not," Sky said, as the voices seemed to get louder and louder.

Amidst it all, Kat threw up her hands, not truly knowing what she should do. She never begrudged the Rangers their opinions and she wasn't going to start now. But, this wasn't the way to go about it. Luckily for her, things were about to be taken completely out of her hands. The doors to the Command Center opened. When the cadets saw who entered, they were instantly silent. All six pairs of eyes rested on Doggie Cruger.

"I'm going," he said.

Deep breaths could be heard coming from every being in that room. Sky nodded.

"Then we're all going," Sky said sternly.

Inside Kat's laboratory, she and Dr. Sevarus were hard at work on a very large device. The piece of machinery was as tall as Kat's waist, they noticed as she was hunched over it, completing the outer casing. Nearby, Bridge & Z were watching them work.

"I don't like it," Z said.

"What's not to like?" Bridge asked her.

"It looks like a cannon. We can't shoot Jack with that thing," Z said.

Hearing Z's words, Kat looked up from her work and put down her wrench, which she had been using to put the device together. Dr. Sevarus tried to continue his scanning on the power output, without listening in.

"It's not a cannon, Z," Kat said. "It's an energy pulse generator. We just had to make it a little bigger than the usual design."

"It looks like a cannon to me," she responded.

"So, what does it do?" Bridge asked.

"Well, it targets the exact energy output from a specific power source. Then, it emits a pulse that's strong enough to override the original power source. We're setting it to target the Omega morpher," Kat said.

Dr. Sevarus chimed in. "With precise targeting, the device will be strong enough to de-power Jack, temporarily. It should give you all enough time to neutralize him."

"You're going to shoot him with an energy pulse that's stronger than his Omega powers? Isn't that a little extreme? You could kill him," Z said, upset.

"We won't kill him. That's why we're making sure that every setting is perfect. I will be testing it and monitoring everything down to the last second," Kat said.

"So, you're coming along too?" Bridge asked.

"I wouldn't leave this device in anyone else's hands," Kat said confidently.

"Sounds good to me."

Everyone turned to see the arrival of Doggie Cruger. Kat couldn't help but notice he walked more confidently in the last day. She knew Cruger for a very long time and she knew that being pro-active helped his recovery more than anything else. He was showing no signs of injury.

"So, Commander, how's the plan coming?" Bridge asked.

"I just finished speaking with Supreme Commander Birdy. All of the preparations are in place. Only secure guests will be allowed to attend the ceremony and he's planning for the worse. Security's going to be high," Cruger revealed. "He also confirmed that they do have an escape plan in mind for the guests. We don't want anyone getting hurt, especially not the Galactic Council President."

"Commander Cruger, are you sure I shouldn't go along with you too?" Dr. Sevarus spoke up.

"Well, Shivan, you can rest assured that if things go according to plan, you won't have anything to worry about," Cruger said. "I'm feeling much better."

"All right. But still be careful, all of you," Sevarus said.

"Always," Cruger responded.

"Good. I'd hate for you to return with more medical emergencies," Sevarus said. "If anything happens to you, your wife will be gunning for me for letting you go."

"Speaking of which," Cruger said, as she headed for the door. "There's still someone who hasn't heard the news."

"No!"

Cruger lowered his head a bit, to avoid the high pitched yell from his wife inside their quarters.

"I can't believe you!" Isinia yelled. "How could you even fathom something like this?"

"Isinia," Cruger said, trying to be stern. "We're going to bring Jack home."

"Jack wants to kill you!"

"He doesn't know what's happening to him, at least we don't think he does," Cruger said.

"See, that's why I don't understand the risk. None of you truly knows what's going on with Jack or how he got that way. You're just grasping at any straw you can to try to get him back. While I admire your sense of commitment and your emotions over your cadets, this is too much Doggie," Isinia said.

"It's not too much. I will do anything and everything in my power to help that boy. He put his life on the line for this organization and I'm not going to leave him in Omallix's clutches!" Doggie yelled back, for the first time since the conversation began.

"I hate to say it but Omallix's track record for making good on his promises is pretty spectacular," Isinia said. "I've seen the casualty reports. I've seen the victims. Every day I talk to wives who've lost husbands and children who've lost parents. There are parents in that shelter who've lost their kids," Isinia said, passionately.

"That's not going to happen. We're taking every precaution," Cruger said. "No one will get hurt."

"What about you?" Isinia said. "Is your life worth it? Because in my mind, it's not."

"I can't cower in fear here, because Omallix makes a threat. We have to stand up to him. Once we start running at the first hint of danger, we're in bigger trouble than we can handle and S.P.D. is doomed," Cruger told her.

"You just got released from the Infirmary. You were almost burned to death!" Isinia said, desperately.

"I'm going. That's the end of the discussion," Cruger said.

"Then, I'm going with you," Isinia said.

"Isinia, no," Cruger said, sighing.

"Why not?"

"It's too dangerous," Cruger said, sternly.

"If you're going, I'm going," Isinia shot back. "Besides, if Omallix succeeds in killing you, at least I'll be there to collect your remains. If he doesn't, I'll be there to see you get your award."

Isinia walked off towards their bedroom. Cruger sighed. He knew she wasn't being serious with her final words to him, but he also felt a little less comfortable knowing she would be there, possibly in harm's way.

Aboard Omallix's base, Charlie strolled down the second floor hallway, accompanied by the Omega Ranger. They were walking straight ahead. Charlie knew the destination and she was prepared for the battle that was about to happen inside. She keyed in her access code and the doors slid open. She & Jack walked in. Charlie saw that Felix was still sitting in the corner in his meditative state.

"Dr. Felix, get up here," Charlie said. "It's time to go back to work."

Felix looked over at Charlie.

"No," he said.

Charlie grunted in anger. Omega Ranger started toward Felix in an attack stance, but Charlie put up an arm, stopping him.

"Felix, stand up," Charlie ordered.

"No," Felix responded calmly.

"We just need you to run a check on the Omega Ranger to make sure he's stable. It's Jack, remember. Don't you want to make sure he's all right?" Charlie said, trying to invoke some emotion to get Felix's attention.

Felix slowly stood, staring at the Omega Ranger. He walked over to one of the tables in the laboratory and grabbed a medical scanner. He walked over to the examination bed.

"Jack, come sit down, please," Felix said. "You do remember Jack is your name?"

"Stop that," Charlie said to him. "Just do the exam and this will all be over quickly."

Jack slowly walked over, but did not sit on the bed. He stared Felix in the face.

"Very well. You can stand," Felix said, as he began scanning Jack's morphed body. He looked to Charlie. "You know this would go better if I could examine him unmorphed."

"That's not going to happen," Charlie said.

"Well, at least give us some privacy," Felix said to her.

"Not in a million years," Charlie said, smirking at him.

Felix sighed and looked back at Jack. He was finding it hard to stand after going so long without food, but Felix pulled himself together.

"So, Jack, how have you been feeling?" Felix asked.

"I don't know."

"What do you mean?" Felix asked, looking a bit curious.

"I don't understand the question."

"He's not going to respond to you, Felix. He can't," Charlie revealed. "Not unless you start resembling Omallix or Jintari."

"His mind's compromised," Felix said, as he scanned it. "I wouldn't recommend sending him into battle, until he's more stable. His brainwaves are very erratic."

"Omallix has plans for him," Charlie said.

"He's taking a big risk sending him in this state," Felix said.

"Just tell me if he's gonna live," Charlie said, annoyed.

"He will live," Felix said, before trying to peer into Jack's helmet, through the visor. "Jack, do you know your last name?"

"I am Jack...Landors," Jack said slowly.

"Good. So, your memory isn't completely fried," Felix said. "Do you remember me?"

"He doesn't need to remember you," Charlie said, sternly.

"What about Z and Sky? Do you remember Commander Cruger?" Felix asked quickly.

As soon as she heard the questions, Charlie stepped between the two, gently pushing Jack away from Felix.

"Exam's over. Jack, go!" Charlie yelled.

The Omega Ranger turned away and headed for the doors. Behind Charlie, Felix called out to him.

"Jack! Remember them! They are your friends! Can you kill your friends? Can you kill Cruger? He helped you, took you off the streets!" Felix shouted.

"Go, Omega Ranger, now!" Charlie yelled over his voice.

The doors opened and the Omega Ranger stepped through. When he got far enough away, the doors slid shut. Charlie turned to Felix, punching him across the face. Felix fell to the floor of the laboratory.

"Looks like you've got some fight left in you after all, doc," Charlie said, angrily.

Outside the laboratory, Jack's mind was racing, after hearing those names. His mind was bombarded with flashes of memory, flashes of them: Z, Sky, Felix and even Cruger. He began to shake his head violently, grasping it with his gloved hands. He stumbled forward, towards the laboratory where he had slept since he woke up on Omallix's base. The doors slid open as he walked forward. Inside, it was completely dark. Once he walked in further, the doors closed behind him, leaving him in complete darkness, much like his head, until those memories crept in.

"No! I must kill S.P.D.'s leader!" Jack screamed, through gritted teeth. "Ahhh!" he screamed, as a memory of his past pushed through...

"A true leader earns respect by example. Did you set that example?"

That dog was talking to him there, in that Command Center. He felt...something there. He just needed his head to be quiet. He had to do what Omallix told him. He had to kill S.P.D.'s leader. That would stop the memories. He took his fisted hand and pounded into the wall of the room.

Inside one of S.P.D.'s largest shuttles, the crew of S.P.D. was all prepared for take off. Their volunteer pilot turned to address the passengers.

"Ladies, gentlemen and Sirians," Boom started. "This is your pilot speaking. We are ready for take off. I'm planning on this being a smooth ride to Andrus III. To make sure of that, we will be taking the long way around, as not to fall within the range of Omallix's base defense systems and be blown to bits. With that said, feel free to sit back, relax and enjoy the cold beverage of your choice."

Boom started the engines and lifted the shuttle off the ground. Once they were out of orbit, the cadets retreated to the aft cabins, along with Isinia. With his wife gone, Cruger leaned forward towards Kat, who was sitting in the seat in front of him, next to Boom.

"Is the pulse generator ready, Kat?" he asked.

"Yes. We're going to have to set it up close enough to Jack to work. It'll be difficult keeping him in one spot, with him trying to kill you and all," Kat said, somberly.

"We'll get it done," Cruger said.

"Yeah, Kat. I'll be right there helping you," Boom said, proudly.

"Thanks, Boom," Kat said, still looking serious. She tilted her head back towards Doggie. "We can't lose you, sir?"

"Don't worry. I plan on sticking around for a while," Cruger said confidently.

He reached out a hand, patting her on the shoulder.

In one of the back cabins of the shuttle, Syd walked in to see Sky staring out a window, at the stars whizzing by. She walked over, and leaned on his arm.

"What are you thinking about?" she asked.

"Lots of stuff. Jack, Cruger, my dad," Sky said, somberly.

He turned and took Syd in his arms for a hug.

"Don't get too stressed out," Syd said to him. "I know there's a lot going on."

"Yeah," Sky sighed.

The doors to the cabin slid open and he quickly moved away from Syd, who frowned. They turned to see that the arrival was Z.

"Don't get all stiff on my account," Z said. "I've seen you two doing more than hugging."

"What's up?" Syd said.

"Actually, I needed to talk to Sky," Z said.

"Oh, I'll leave you two alone then," Syd said, before leaving.

After her exit, Sky looked a little confused, as Z was staring at him.

"What's going on?" he asked.

"Why didn't you tell Cruger about what happened with Jack when he escaped?" Z asked.

"I didn't think there was anything to tell," Sky said.

"I was the one who opened the cell doors. It's my fault he got away. I was expecting at least a reprimand," Z said.

"Well, I know what it's like to feel powerless when it comes to family. Your feelings can consume you. I think I know more than most people around here what it's like to desperately want to help family even when it's impossible. Jack's your family," Sky said.

"He took advantage of me. I felt so stupid," Z said.

"I felt the same way when Mirloc escaped. He preyed on my emotions about my father and he used it to escape. So, there's no way I can fault you for doing something I did myself," Sky said.

"Thanks, Sky," Z said.

"Just do me a favor. When everything goes down today, keep your cool out there. Remember we all want to help Jack," Sky said.

"I know," Z said.

Four hours later, the shuttle was stowed on Andrus III and the Rangers, Kat, Boom and Isinia were all sharing a warm welcome thanks to Supreme Commander Birdy.

"It's wonderful to see you all," Birdy exclaimed. "I'm glad you could make it. I trust you had a safe journey."

"Yes, it was uneventful, thanks to Boom's piloting," Cruger said.

Birdy shook Boom's hand.

"Commander Cruger!"

Everyone turned to see the arrival of Galactic Council President Otto Cali. He was flanked by two of his personal guards. He walked right over, greeting Cruger with a hearty handshake.

"Greetings, Commander. I've just returned from a tour of the grounds. Preparations for the ceremony are going excellently. I'm truly honored that you could come in person," Cali spoke, in his trademark even tone.

He almost never expressed emotion, one way or another. He was a hard alien to read. His diplomatic attitude made him a good leader for the Galactic Council, as he kept order amongst the representatives of several different planets. His large head resembled an octopus, as several tentacles drooped down the front of his face.

"Thank you, President Cali," Cruger said, as he gestured towards his wife. "This is my wife, Isinia, Dr. Kat Manx, E-Squad cadet Boom, and these are my B-Squad Rangers."

"Well, it looks like quite a group. I know you've all been through a terrible time, but hopefully today's festivities will help brighten your spirits," Cali said with a smile. "Now, I have a few more people to see before the ceremony. I will see you all in a few hours."

Cali's departure was just as quick as his entrance. He was never one to stick around long. It might lead to questions that the Galactic Council's president didn't want to answer. Cruger had a bad feeling. He leaned over to Supreme Commander Birdy.

"Why do I get the feeling President Cali hasn't been informed of our plans?" Cruger asked.

"I felt it would be better not to inform him," Birdy said. "Trust me. This day will turn out to be just what S.P.D. needs. You will have Jack returned to you and the Galactic Council President will be so stunned at Omallix's attack that he will go back to the Council and convince them to send reinforcements to Earth."

"I hope you're right," Cruger said, worried.

About a block away from the very large building known as Galaxy Command, everything was set for the Galactic Spirit Award ceremony. The Galactic Council President, Otto Cali, was standing at the podium, as several ushers were counting the seats in front of the stage to make sure there were enough. Several disguised security officers were amongst them. President Cali was performing a microphone check when he heard the sound of an approaching vehicle behind him. He turned to see a small service truck approaching.

The vehicle pulled up right behind the stage. Cali watched curiously, as the man he was introduced to as E-Squad's cadet Boom emerged from the truck and began unhitching a cart from the back of the truck. Something large was sitting on the truck, but Cali had no clue what it was. A sheet covered it.

"Excuse me, Cadet Boom. What are you doing?" Cali inquired.

"Well, sir. I was just making a little delivery," Boom said, sounding a bit nervous.

"A delivery?" Cali wondered.

"Yes. It's a gift, for Commander Cruger from all of us at S.P.D. Earth. We wanted to give him a little something special to mark the occasion," Boom said, with a lying smile.

"Ah, very good. I'm sure Commander Cruger will accept it graciously," Cali said with a smile, before turning back around to the podium to finish checking the microphone sound.

After completely unhitching the back cart, Boom climbed back into the truck.

"You have no idea," Boom said, under his breath.

Several minutes later, Boom spotted Kat and B-Squad and pulled the service truck over to where they were standing, several blocks away from where the ceremony would take place. The B-Squad Rangers were all wearing their dress uniforms. Kat was fiddling with the large energy pulse generator. Quinn & Bridge were close by, holding a large white sheet. Boom pulled up in front of the generator, which was also on a cart, similar to his last delivery. Boom stepped out and began hitching it to the truck.

"Did you drop it off?" Sky asked about the last cart.

"Yep. Went off without a hitch," Boom said with a chuckle.

When he realized no one else was laughing, his face went blank.

"So no one asked any questions?" Syd asked.

"No. President Cali was a little curious, but I just told him it was a gift for the Commander," Boom said.

"Good," Sky said, before looking to Kat. "How's it coming?"

"It's ready," Kat said.

"Okay," Sky said, sighing. "You and Boom know what to do. As soon as Jack shows up, we'll get him away from the ceremony and lure him down this way. We'll try to get him as close to you as we can."

"I'll handle the rest," Boom said, calmly.

"The generator should be ready to go, but Jack is going to have to be isolated. It could be very dangerous if any of you get in the way of the energy pulse," Kat explained.

The B-Squad cadets all nodded along, except for Z.

"I hope this works," Z said, somberly.

Kat stepped off the cart, as Bridge & Quinn placed the large white sheet over the top of it, concealing it from public view.

"Don't worry, Z. We're going to take every precaution," Quinn said, patting her on the shoulder.

"We better get going," Bridge said. "The ceremony's going to start in a few minutes."

"Good luck, Kat," Syd said, as the cadets all walked off towards the ceremony.

"I've just got a very bad feeling about all of this," Isinia told her husband, as she adjusted the collar on his dress uniform.

"Well, frankly Isinia, keep it to yourself," Cruger said, sighing.

"Excuse me?"

"I'm sorry, but it's too late now. The plan's going ahead and there's no stopping it. The time for contemplation is over. Any hesitation at this point could lead to chaos out there. I need you and your support. I love your opinions and I always take them into consideration in everything I do. But right now, I need to do what's in my heart," Cruger said.

"Okay," Isinia said, taking a deep breath. "I'll see you after the ceremony."

Isinia headed for the doors that led out of the dressing room that had been provided for Cruger inside Galaxy Command Headquarters. Cruger called after her.

"Isinia," he said.

His wife turned back to him.

"I want you to be careful out there," Cruger said. "When the time comes, you have to get to safety with the other guests."

"Yes sir," Isinia said, before leaving.

Left alone, Cruger turned back to the mirror on the wall and took in a glimpse of himself in the mirror. It was through the reflection that he saw the Omega Ranger, standing behind him. Cruger turned quickly, but there was no one there. He looked back in the mirror, but didn't see him. Had Jack just been there? Cruger took a deep breath, knowing this would be a decisive showdown.

All of the guests for the ceremony were seated already, as Isinia Cruger walked into the area. She walked down the aisle that separated the two sections of seats. She glanced at the stage and saw Supreme Commander Birdy and Galactic Council President Cali sitting up there, next to a small flagpole. The flag attached to it featured the ever-popular canine symbol, representing Space Patrol Delta. There was a third seat on the stage for her husband. She made her way to the front. Each side had several rows of three seats. On her left, Z, Quinn and Bridge were seated. On her right, Sky and Syd were seated, with an empty chair reserved for her. She sat down, taking another deep breath. Syd reached over and rested her hand on Isinia's, giving her a reassuring smile. Isinia nodded. After a few whispers between himself & Cali, Fowler Birdy took the podium.

"Gathered guests, it is a great pleasure to be here today to honor one of Space Patrol Delta's most active and successful officers," Birdy spoke. "I've known this honoree for many many years. I remember the day that he volunteered to lead S.P.D. Earth. He was eager to dive right in. He knew the legacy that Earth has for honor and dedication to protection from evil. I admired his tenacity and his spirit then. I still admire him today. That is why it is my honor to introduce you all to today's honoree. Sirius and Earth's greatest warrior, Anubis "Doggie" Cruger."

All of the guests and President Cali joined Birdy in standing and applauding, as Commander Cruger strolled down the aisle nodding in thanks to them all. He took his place on the stage, shaking hands with both of his superiors and then he took a seat, as Birdy introduced the Galactic Council President, who took the podium.

"One of my duties as the President of the Galactic Council is to make very tough decisions," Cali spoke. "For those of you who don't know, there are an odd number of representatives on the council. We are charged with making very demanding and difficult choices on a daily basis. There are a lot of very strong opinions among us and often times there are ties in our voting. That's when it falls to me to make the final decision. But, I am happy to say that this year's recipient of the Galactic Spirit Award was not a hard decision. In fact, it was a unanimous one..."

Cali spoke with the demeanor of a perfectly polished politician. At times, his eyes veered directly at the camera crews standing at the back of the area, behind the seated guests. He knew all of this would be reported all over the galaxy.

"I know Commander Cruger as Anubis, the strong-willed Sirian who I once saw speak at an S.P.D. recruitment rally almost 25 years ago. His words spurned a generation to fight against evil. His story of courage and determination to survive the battle on his own home planet moved many, including myself. My most recent encounter with Anubis also moved me. He told of the devastation on Earth and the Galactic Council felt his pain once again. But, more than his pain, we felt his spirit. It is strong and it is unbending. That is why he is here today," Cali explained. "But, I know many of you know him as Doggie. The tough as nails fighter who never gives up and never backs down from a fight..."

It was at that moment, that several heavy footsteps were heard marching towards the ceremony. They must have teleported in only a few feet away, because it didn't take long for the small army to get right on top of them. The metallic foot soldiers marched in unison. The two figures in front of them, both exuded cocky darkness, a scary combination.

The Fericks stopped in their tracks, but the two in the lead kept walking, past the cameras, up the main aisle. They stopped in the center of the ceremony, drawing strange looks from most of the guests. But, five of them, seated at the front jumped up, knowing exactly what they were faced with.

"Sorry to interrupt," Charlie said, deviously. "I just couldn't help myself. I'm never one to contradict authority, but Doggie never backing down from a fight is just not true."

"Yes," Cartiron agreed, as he stood at her side. "My last fight with him had me leaving him for dead.

"I didn't give up, Cartiron," Cruger said, as he stood from his seat on the stage.

President Cali gave him a confused look, then turned back to the new arrivals.

"What is going on here? I don't know who you people think you are, but this is a private ceremony," Cali said.

"They're trash," Z yelled from nearby.

"And we're here to take them out," Sky said. "Ready?"

"Ready!" the other four cadets shouted together.

"S.P.D., S.W.A.T. mode!" they all yelled together.

In an instant, the five morphed B-Squad Rangers were ready for action.

"Oh no," President Cali said, as Birdy took a defensive stance in front of him.

Charlie & Cartiron shared a chuckle.

"Attack!" Charlie screamed.

With that order, the Fericks began shooting at the Rangers, with the guests caught in the middle. Chaos ensued, as attendees began to panic. Cruger leaned over to Birdy.

"I think it's about time you put your escape plan into action," he shouted over the screaming voices.

"Right," Birdy said. "Come on, President Cali. Let's get you out of here."

Cali's security was already on top of him, shielding him from danger. Birdy directed them to the safety zone, while motioning for other guests to head that way as well. Still on the stage, Cruger locked eyes with his wife.

"Isinia! Go!" he yelled.

Isinia saw a few female guests cowering and grabbed them, leading them off in Birdy's direction. Cruger looked out at the chaotic scene. The Rangers were holding their own, fighting the Fericks. He spotted Syd and Charlie going at it, while Sky was fighting with Cartiron. Back, behind the chaos of the scene, Cruger saw someone else. It was the Omega Ranger. Jack was here and he was slowly making his way through the crowd, coming towards the stage. He was walking with a purpose. The time was now, Cruger thought to himself.

"You want me, Jack!" Cruger yelled. "Come and get me!"

Cruger hopped off the back of the stage onto the sheet-covered cart. He tossed the sheet away, revealing his Shadow ATV. Cruger hopped aboard and revved up the engine, just as Jack hopped onto the stage. Cruger sped off, but he took care not to go too fast. He wanted Jack to follow him. With the press of a button on his morpher, the Uniforce Cycle materialized on the street. Jack jumped on top of it from the stage and took off after Cruger.

From beneath his helmet, Sky saw them speed off. He blocked a blow from Cartiron and kicked him away for a moment.

"Guys, we gotta get these freaks away from the innocents and help Cruger," he yelled, as he grabbed his morpher. "Kat, Commander's headed your way."

From their position several blocks away, Kat & Boom were both listening as Sky spoke.

"Understood," Kat said. "Boom, get ready."

"Right," Boom said, as he jumped inside the truck and started the engine, not knowing how close they could lure Jack. The generator might have to go to him, instead.

Kat stood on the cart hitched to the truck. She took a deep breath. This was it.

Onboard Omallix's base in space, the villain was watching things play out on his viewscreen. Jintari was standing nearby.

"It looks like they're luring Landors away from the ceremony," Jintari surmised.

"Yes," Omallix responded. "It appears the Rangers will be heading in that direction as well."

"It's no matter. Charlie & Cartiron will follow with the Fericks. They will keep the Rangers busy long enough for our Omega Ranger to destroy Cruger," Jintari said.

Omallix began to chuckle at Jintari's words.

"Sir?" Jintari was curious. It wasn't like Omallix to appear so happy during a battle.

"I just love intricate plans," Omallix said. "Nothing is ever as simple as it seems and the Rangers seem to forget that I never completely reveal my intentions for them."

Omallix rose from his throne and exited, leaving Jintari looking confused.

Cruger sped up the Shadow ATV, as he could see Jack was closing in. Then, in an instant, the four-wheeler went flying out from underneath him. Jack used the Uniforce Cycle's laser weapons to blast the vehicle, bringing their chase to a screeching halt. Cruger flew off of the ATV, rolling to the ground. Given his recent injuries, he wasn't going to be getting up very quickly. A few blocks away, Kat's excellent hearing was in effect. She heard the blasts. She turned her head in Boom's direction.

"They're not going to make it all the way here," she yelled. "Let's go!"

Boom shifted the truck into drive and took off in the direction of the laser blasts. Kat held tight, although Boom made sure not to go too fast. They didn't want anything to happen to the energy pulse generator. It was their only hope of getting Jack back.

The Omega Ranger dismounted his cycle and began walking slowly towards Cruger, who was still lying on the ground.

"S.P.D.'s leadership will fall today," Jack said, darkly, as he reached his hand for the throttle on his Omega morpher. "Omega morpher! Electro mode!"

Cruger watched as Jack's gloved hand began to glow. It was like it was moving in slow motion. He raised it to the air and began bringing it down towards the ground. Cruger knew when it touched, he would be lit up with a barrage of lightning energy attacks. Seconds before Jack's hand hit the ground, he was blasted off his feet from behind. The Omega Ranger went flying into the air. As he crashed to the ground, Cruger looked up to see the other Rangers arriving. They rushed over to him, helping him up.

"Commander, you okay?" Bridge asked.

"I'll live," Cruger said.

"Not for long," they heard Jack grunt as he struggled to his feet.

At that moment, Cruger and the Rangers were hit with a barrage of fireball projectiles. Sky dived with Cruger out of the way, as the other four Rangers were caught in the crossfire. Sky looked up, seeing Cartiron, Charlie and the firing Fericks were the culprits.

"Go," Cruger yelled to him. "I'll hold off Jack until Kat gets here."

Sky sighed beneath his helmet, hating to leave Cruger unprotected. But, he knew he had his job to do. The Red Ranger ran back over to his comrades, making sure they got up.

"Poor little Rangers," Charlie shouted. "Looks like you're outnumbered...just like always."

"That's what you think," the Yellow Ranger shouted, as she took to the air, firing down a barrage of lasers from her Delta Enforcer. In her black and red stealth suit, Charlie flipped away from the blasts and fired from her own weapon. Z landed right in front of her and the two used their guns to block kicks from each other. Charlie, however, scored one kick to Z's stomach, sending her flying backward into the air. Charlie fired her blaster, but Z's S.W.A.T. mode was too quick. She dodged the lasers in mid-air, flipping over the blasts, towards a building. Her feet landed on the side of the concrete wall and she used her momentum to launch back into the air, firing her Delta Enforcer. This time, Charlie took the hits, lighting up in a wave of sparks.

Nearby, the Pink and Green Rangers were facing off with the Fericks. Quinn blocked a Ferick's point blank shot with his own Delta Enforcer. The robot whipped around, elbowing him in the stomach. He bent over in pain, just as Syd came flipping over his back, firing at that Ferick, destroying it. She fired on two more coming her way, taking them down. As three more were marching her way, she heard lasers collide with them. She turned to see Quinn had taken them down. She gave him thumbs up.

A few feet away, the Red & Blue Rangers were in a heated battle with Cartiron, whose weapons of choice were his own hands. He fired blats of fire from them, which Bridge flipped away from, just as Sky flew over his head, with his Delta Enforcer, firing on Cartiron. The lasers sent him staggering backwards a bit, just as Bridge was back to his feet. He charged at Cartiron, figuring that if he were too close Cartiron wouldn't be able to get off a decent fireball shot. He tried to block Cartiron's punches with his blaster, but Cartiron's strong arm sent the rifle flying into the air.

The Red Ranger caught it in midair. He landed on the ground, just as his blue comrade was picked up by Cartiron and thrown into a parked car nearby. Cartiron chuckled, as he turned. Sky fired both Delta Enforcers at him at the same time, sending him flying in a barrage of smoke and sparks. Sky checked on Bridge.

In a nearby alley, Cruger had retreated. He walked deeper in, only to see that a large metal fence blocked his path. He turned back to the way he came and that was when he saw the Omega Ranger standing before him.

"Jack, good to see you," Cruger said, calmly.

"It's over," Jack said darkly. "I will destroy you."

"Jack, you don't have to do this. I know you are confused. This isn't the way," Cruger said calmly.

"This is the only way," Jack said.

He began to walk slowly closer to Cruger, who backed himself all the way into that metal fence. He wasn't in any condition to climb it so, he knew he wasn't going anywhere. Jack's hand grabbed his morpher's throttle.

"Omega morpher...Light beam mode!" Jack grunted.

As Cruger watched Jack's gloved hand begin to light up, he realized the he might regret the decision to come into this alley...if he didn't know that it was all part of the plan. He heard the engine approaching, as Jack brought his arm up for the finishing blow to his commander.

"Jack!"

Cruger heard Kat's voice and he ducked down to the ground, catching Jack off-guard. Jack, still looking forward, saw the barrel of the energy pulse generator staring back at him on the other side of the metal fence. Kat pressed in a command on the device and the energy pulse came flying, straight through the metal fence and nailed Jack right in the chest, sending him staggering several feet backwards, as the energy buildup in his body was too much.

"Ahh!" Jack screamed.

Cruger looked up from the ground and watched the energy pulse, as it seemed to spread through his entire body. In an instant it dissipated and Jack fell to the ground in front of him.

Back at the ceremony, the last of the guests were herded to safety, as one Ferick was still hanging around, firing wildly. Birdy grabbed a chair nailing the robot from behind, but that only caused the wooden chair to break to pieces. The Ferick turned to him and raised his blaster preparing to fire. Birdy had fear in his eyes for a moment. Then, he saw a steel pole pierce through the chest of the robot. It fell to the ground in a smoky mess. Though the cloud of sparks, Birdy saw it was Isinia, holding the flag pole from the stage, which she had used to stab the Ferick.

"Thank you," Birdy said to her. "But what are you doing out here?"

"I was helping a few people get to safety. I saw you needed help," she said, as she started to walk in the direction the Rangers left in.

Birdy grabbed her arm.

"Where are you going?"

"I'm going to check on my husband," Isinia said.

"No. It's too dangerous, stay here where it's safe," Birdy said.

Then a dark voice came from nearby.

"I wouldn't call it safe!"

Both turned towards the stage and saw Omallix standing there, staring at them.

"However, I could use a good witness," he shouted as he stared down at one of them.

Isinia watched as the deadly red beam from his eyes pierced Birdy's chest. Isinia's jaw dropped in shock, as Birdy seemed to be lifted off his feet, groaning in pain. After a few seconds of the searing beam, Omallix released. Birdy's body crumpled to the ground, where Isinia knelt near him. She touched him, but his body was so hot that she knew he was gone.

"Mrs. Cruger!" Omallix yelled.

Isinia looked up at him, deep into his glassy evil robotic eyes.

"Tell your friends that today S.P.D.'s leadership has fallen and that I will take what is left of them and finally see their destruction. The countdown is on!"

With that Omallix disappeared in his own teleportation beam. Isinia finally managed to let out a breath, as she looked back at Birdy. She ripped the flag from the pole she was still holding and placed it over Birdy, covering his fatal chest wound and head.

Several blocks away, the Rangers were still in a heated battle with the Fericks, Charlie and Cartiron. Lasers were flying, fireballs ignited the area and none of the Rangers were sure that the plan to get Jack had succeeded. Charlie managed to kick Z away briefly, as the communications device strapped to her arm beeped. She activated it.

"Charlie! It is time for retreat," Omallix ordered.

"Yes, master. Omega Ranger hasn't responded in a while. Should we look for him?" she asked.

"Leave him," Omallix said. "Our mission has been accomplished."

Within moments, Charlie nodded to Cartiron and the two teleported away with all of the remaining Fericks, save for one, who was hit with a blast from Bridge's Delta Enforcer moments before the teleportation. After a few seconds, the robot fell, leaving B-Squad as the only ones standing.

"Cruger!" Syd yelled.

As it dawned on them all, they went running towards the alleyway. The Rangers shared sighs of relief, as they saw Jack had been loaded onto the truck and appeared to be unconscious.

"Is he okay?" Z asked.

Kat looked over to her and smiled. "He's going to make it."

Sky grasped Z's shoulder firmly, knowing what she had to be feeling in that moment.

"Guys, I'm still confused," Bridge said. "I heard Omallix tell Charlie the mission was accomplished. What did he mean?"

"Let's get back to the others," Cruger said, wondering himself.

A few minutes later, the Shadow ATV came speeding back onto the grounds where the ceremony was in ruins. The Green Ranger was driving it. Cruger, Bridge and Z were with Kat on the back of the truck with Jack. Boom and Syd were inside the truck and the Red Ranger was driving the Uniforce Cycle. As they saw the damage to the area, they brought the vehicles to a stop.

Kat remained with Boom and Z at the truck with Jack. The others joined Cruger, as he walked towards the aisle in the middle of it all. There were tossed and broken chairs. The podium on the stage was in pieces. It was then that Cruger spotted his wife kneeling next to a covered body.

"Isinia!" Cruger yelled.

She looked up and saw her husband. Isinia got to her feet and ran over, hugging him tightly.

"I was so worried," she said.

"What happened here?" Cruger asked, as he looked over her shoulder at the body on the ground.

Sky, Bridge, Quinn and Syd walked over to it and knelt down. Sky took a deep breath and pulled the flag back. Syd gasped and turned away. The other three all lowered their heads. Bridge nodded to Sky.

"He's dead," Bridge confirmed to him.

Sky laid the flag back over Birdy's face as he sighed. He looked over at Cruger still embracing his sobbing wife. They locked eyes, knowing this battle wasn't a complete victory.

Six hours later, Doggie Cruger found himself sitting inside of Fowler Birdy's office. It was strange knowing that he would never have another meeting with Birdy in there. He was seated in front of the desk. He glanced over the desk at Birdy's empty chair. Omallix had tricked them again. He couldn't help but replay Isinia's message from the devious creature. He wasn't going to let him win. He couldn't. The doors to the office opened behind Cruger. He glanced back, seeing the Galactic Council President enter. He sat down in Birdy's chair.

"Anubis, I know this has been a trying time for you all. How is your wife doing?" Cali asked.

"She's still stunned, as we all are," Cruger said. "I'm eager to get her back to Earth and Jack too."

"I'm sure. However, that may not be a very long trip," Cali said, cryptically.

Cruger gave him a confused look. "I don't understand."

"Fowler Birdy's death has left a hole in S.P.D. that will be hard to fill. I've spent the last five hours getting in touch with the members of the Galactic Council. We're all in agreement. I'm hereby promoting you to Supreme Commander," Cali announced.

"What?"

"It's a big job, but it's one that the entire Council is confident you can handle, Anubis," Cali said.

Cruger frowned.

"We're in the middle of a war. There's no way that I'll be able to fully lead my Rangers against Omallix and fulfill the duties of Supreme Commander. Earth is in enough turmoil as it is," Cruger said.

"You won't be stationed on Earth. You'll be stationed right here at Galaxy Command," Cali said.

"What about the Rangers?"

"They will be provided with capable leadership. You will still oversee all of the activities there, just as Supreme Commander Birdy did. Anubis, we need you here. This is a tough time. All of S.P.D. needs a strong voice to lead it," Cali said.

"What if I refuse?"

"You can't refuse, Anubis. This is an order from the Galactic Council. You are an officer and you are sent where you are most needed. Right now, you are most needed here. You will return with your crew to Earth and gather your belongings. We will send your new shuttle to retrieve you when you're ready," Cali said.

Cali stood from Birdy's chair and extended his hand.

"This is your chair now. Congratulations," Cali said, calmly.

Despite his protests, Cruger knew he had no choice. He could either accept or resign. If he resigned he would truly be of no help to the Rangers. He shook Cali's hand, then saluted him.

"Thank you, sir," Cruger said.

Four hours later, it seemed that everyone was settled back in on Earth. They may have been physically settled, but emotions had been running rampant since Cruger announced his promotion to them all on the shuttle ride back to Earth.

There was probably only one soul on that shuttle whose mind was on something else completely. Now, inside the Infirmary, Z waited patiently at Piggy's bedside.

"Jack's back, Piggy. He's going to be fine. We got him back," Z said, happily. "Now, we just have to hope that he can be our Jack again."

The doors to the Infirmary opened and two orderlies wheeled in a gurney, led by Dr. Sevarus. Z breathed a sigh of relief at seeing Jack, unmorphed for the first time in months. Sevarus patted her on the back.

"The memory restoration process went perfectly," Sevarus told her.

Z smiled. She looked back at Jack, as he was transferred to one of the beds in the Infirmary. He was asleep. She couldn't help but look at his whole self lying there. He was wearing an exam gown. His arms and head were the only things exposed, as Sevarus pulled a sheet over him. It was then that Z's gaze veered to Jack's left wrist. She winced as she saw the Omega Ranger morpher was indeed attached to his arm, directly through the skin. It was a grotesque sight. Then she looked back at Jack's face. It was just how she remembered it. It didn't make sense.

"Doctor Sevarus," she called out.

The doctor walked over to her.

"I thought Jack was burned in the massacre? He doesn't look like it," Z said.

"I know. Kat and I thought he was as well. However, it appears that Jack was snatched up by Omallix just before the wave would have hit him," Sevarus explained. "He's not injured at all."

"Then, why? Why did they bond him to the Omega morpher like that?" Z said, looking disgusted.

"I fear the answer is torture," Sevarus said.

"It makes sense."

They both turned to see Doggie Cruger standing in the doorway. He joined them at Jack's bedside.

"Omallix and Jintari's hideous experiment has hurt Jack more than any of us could imagine. He's going to need everyone's help to get better," Cruger said to Z.

She nodded. Jack's eyes began to flutter open.

"Even...yours?" he said, in a hushed, groggy voice.

"Jack," Z said with a smile. "You're awake."

"Can't sleep forever," Jack said, as he looked over at Cruger. "I'm sorry."

"It wasn't your fault. Nothing that's happened here has been your fault. You're more innocent than any of us," Cruger explained.

"How are you feeling?" Z asked.

"Got a really big headache," Jack said, trying to smile through the pain.

"It will go away soon enough. How's your memory?" Sevarus asked.

"Disappointing," Jack said. "I remember everything, before the fire wave and after it. I wouldn't mind forgetting the past few weeks, though."

"Wouldn't we all," Cruger said. "I have to get going. Jack, I will check in with you soon."

"I guess I should go too," Z said to Cruger. He shook his head.

"No. Stay here with Jack. The others will see me off," Cruger said.

Z walked over giving Cruger a hug. "I'm sorry you're going."

"So am I," Cruger sighed.

He shook hands with Dr. Sevarus and waved to Jack, who managed to lift his right arm to wave back.

Isinia was feverishly hurrying through her packing, as Doggie walked into their quarters. She heard him come in.

"You know, it might have helped if you told me that the shuttle was getting here so soon. I'm nowhere near being ready," she said.

"That's because I didn't want you to pack," Cruger said.

Isinia stopped what she was doing and looked over at her husband. He shook his head.

"I don't understand," she said, as she walked over to him.

"I want you to stay here," Cruger said, a little unsure of himself.

"Why?"

"Because, I need you here. I need the cadets to see that I haven't abandoned them. Having you here can help me do that. Besides, I know how important your work at the shelter is to you and I don't want to take you away from that either," Cruger said.

"I have to say I'm surprised," Isinia said. "We haven't been apart since.."

"It's okay. We'll be together again soon," Cruger said, grabbing her in his arms. "You being here gives me a reason to come back, if I can't find any other."

With a tear in her eye, Isinia embraced her husband. She closed her eyes and sighed. "Good bye, my love. Be safe."

"You do the same," Cruger said, as he headed for the door.

"I want to see you off," Isinia said. Cruger put up a hand.

"You just did."

Cruger reached his next destination and he stopped outside the doors. He took a deep breath, knowing this would be the hardest goodbye. He stepped forward and the doors slid open. He walked into the room and heard the doors close behind him.

"Is it time?" Kat asked.

"The shuttle just arrived," Cruger said.

Kat stood up from her desk and walked over to Cruger, who extended his hand to shake hers. Kat didn't.

"Would it matter if I said I didn't want you to go?"

"Everything you say matters, Kat," Cruger said, somberly. "But, this is one battle we can't win."

"I hate this," Kat said, angrily. "I hate that Omallix won."

"What do you mean?"

"He wanted to rip you away from the Rangers. He got his wish. You're leaving," Kat said, on the verge of tears.

Cruger sighed.

"There's nothing we can do about it now," Cruger said. "But, believe me, if there was a way, I'd take it."

A tear fell from Kat's eye.

"I feel like this is kind of my fault," Kat said, turning away from him.

"How could any of this ever be your fault?"

"I didn't secure our systems enough after A-Squad was captured. If I had, maybe Charlie wouldn't have been able to access them. Maybe they wouldn't have gotten so much information. If I hadn't sent Quinn to the Containment Room, Omallix would never have got out. I made so many stupid mistakes. One of them cost Officer G'laktu his life. I couldn't stop Charlie & Jintari from stealing the Omega morpher specs. I'm sorry," Kat said, as she started to cry.

Cruger grabbed her into his arms, trying to console her.

"You have nothing to be sorry for," Cruger said. "You couldn't predict the future. None of us could."

"I couldn't fix your morpher either," Kat said, distraught. "If I could, they might not have chosen you. You'd still be an active Ranger. I'm sorry. I tried. I really did."

"Listen to me," Cruger said sternly, forcing Kat to look him in the eye. "No one has done more for this organization than you have. You should be proud. If it weren't for you, the Rangers would have died after their first fight with the Fericks. You made their weapons work. I would have died at that construction site, if you hadn't rescued me. You've held us together all this time and I need you to keep holding them together. You're the only person in this galaxy I can depend on to do that for me."

"Yes sir," Kat said, as she pulled herself together.

Cruger descended the escalators towards the lowest level of S.P.D. Headquarters. He walked over to the shuttle bay and saw the large shuttle that had come to retrieve him. It had Galaxy Command written on the side. He took a deep breath. As he got closer, he spied the four individuals standing at attention in front of it. Cruger smiled.

"Rangers," Cruger said, as he looked at Sky, Syd, Bridge and Quinn standing in front of him. "My Rangers."

"Have a good trip, sir," Quinn said, as Cruger shook his hand.

"Quinn, you've become an integral part of this team. You stepped up in the face of despair and you have fought valiantly in the name of S.P.D. and Darren would be very proud of you," Cruger responded.

"We're gonna miss you," Syd said, as she shook his hand, then hugged him.

"Syd, your heart and tenacity have kept this team human. You helped us all realize that we don't have to succumb to the darkness to fight it," Cruger said.

"We'll see you soon?" Bridge asked. Cruger nodded, as he shook his hand.

"Yes, Carson. You will. Bridge, there's no one else like you in the entire galaxy and believe me when I say that's the greatest compliment I could ever give you. Your unique wit and strong spirit are remarkable," Cruger said to him.

"Sir, I just want you to know that no matter what, you're our leader. You made us who we are and we'll never forget that," Sky said, as Cruger shook his hand.

"And you, Sky, are one of the greatest cadets I've ever been allowed to teach," Cruger said. "Your leadership abilities have shined through. You've become the leader that S.P.D. needs. Your team is going to count on you even more now, but I know you can handle it. Believe it or not, you've all made me a better Commander. I'll never forget your contributions. I've learned so much from each of you that I will take with me to Galaxy Command."

The four Rangers saluted Cruger, as he stepped inside of the shuttle. The engines started, as Cruger walked to the front window and looked out at them all.

"Be strong. Be swift," Cruger said quietly. "And, be safe, my Rangers."

The Rangers watched the shuttle take off. Within moments, it was gone. They stayed in their places.

"I miss him already," Sky admitted.

"Me too," Syd chimed in.

"What are we gonna do now?" Quinn asked.

"Good question," Bridge said. "I wonder who the new commander's going to be."

Little did they know that the figure with that position was standing at the top of the escalator, waiting for them. He knew they could hear him from his position.

"Rangers! Ten hut!" he yelled at the top of his lungs.

Instantly, Sky, Bridge & Syd looked shocked. Their backs were still turned, but those words were all they needed to hear. They knew exactly who it was.

"Oh no no no," Syd said, softly, as she winced.

"Maybe, if we don't turn around, it won't be true," Bridge whispered.

"I don't know what's going on, but now I'm scared. Who is it?" Quinn asked.

Sky took a deep breath and turned around. Bridge looked mad that he did. Syd, Quinn and Bridge all turned around as well. The four cadets walked over to the escalators and rode them up. When they got close to the top, they saw him.

"Sergeant Silverback," Sky said. "It's good to see you, sir."

"Actually, it's Commander now!" Silverback said, with a smile.