Chapter 3: Logan's Dilemma
In the few days since the Fire Hydrantbot's defeat, the Power Rangers went viral. Almost every major news station has reported on the robots and their defeat by the rangers. Almost every story has the same question. Who are the Power Rangers? Dr. Ashford has made it clear that protecting their identities was important. Dr. Ashford had also advised the rangers to stay close or together in case a robot attacks the city. In precaution, the young rangers don't teleport with their morphers unless they have to or when morphed. They are also careful on what they talked about in public as well as making sure they are alone when morphing. The only way to compete their mission without interference was to lay low and make sure no one knows that the Power Rangers are normal high schoolers.
It was Friday morning as Dante walked through the school's front doors with his arm around Kylie. As the couple walked, Dante noticed that most of the group of students were talking about nothing but the Power Rangers. Dante shook his head
'Man, everywhere I go, this is all I hear,' the Red Ranger said in his mind.
Kylie rested her head in Dante's shoulder. "You nervous about tonight's game?"
Dante then remembered about his game tonight versus Reefside.
"A little bit. We're playing a good team, but I'm going to play my heart out tonight," Dante said with a small smile.
"I know you'll win. Just remember, you're number 11 on the field, but number 1 in my heart," Kylie said.
Dante blushed before he gave Kylie a quick kiss. The couple reluctantly departed for their respective classes. Dante quickly made his way to his first period math class. As he walked into the classroom, Logan was sitting at a desk at the right side of the room with his head down. Dante quickly took the seat next to him.
"I don't like the attention we're getting, Logan," Dante said.
Logan raised his head. "Yeah, tell me about it. How are we suppose to do our mission when everyone and their mother is trying to figure us out?"
Dante shook his head. "We're going to have to figure that out. In the meantime, I seriously can't believe everyone is freaking out over this."
"I agree with you, it's crazy. Last night we were on the news again. My little brother and sister both couldn't stop talking about how they wish they knew us or to be us. Man, they have no idea their own brother is one of them," Logan sighed.
"Careful Logan, we can't be that direct," Dante cautioned.
"My bad Dante, it's been a crazy few days," Logan said.
Dante nodded. "It's been like that for all of us. The best thing we can do right now is lay low like Doc said. We act like everything normal and we'll be fine."
"Definitely, we just need to get through the day and meet at the Hub for training like we been doing the last few days," Logan said.
"Exactly," Dante said.
"Speaking of acting like everything is normal. You got a game to prepare for, leader," Logan said as he patted Dante on the shoulder.
Dante smirked. "Thanks for the reminder."
"Anytime bro," Logan said.
Their math teacher Mr. Parker then walked into the classroom to start teaching the class. Both teens groaned as the lesson starts.
On the other side of the school, Alex Lockhart and Trevor Whittaker were in their history class. Like the rest of the student population at Sunset Beach High, the two best friends were talking about the rangers.
"Alex, did you see how they wield their weapons?" Trevor excitedly asked his friend.
"Yes Trevor," Alex said in a bored tone.
"And how they defeated that robot?" Trevor asked.
"Yeah, of course I saw," Alex said, starting to get annoyed.
"And how they boarded a giant mech?"
"Yes, I saw everything, I was with you watching the whole thing on the news!" Alex shouted.
The whole class went silent. Alex's eyes widen when he realized he shouted. Their teacher Ms. Wilson didn't look happy.
"Alex, do you have anything else to say or can I continue my lesson?" Ms. Wilson said with her hands on her hip.
Alex shook his head. "Nope, sorry Ms. Wilson. Won't happen again."
"Good," the teacher responded before she continued with her lesson.
"Nice move, man," Trevor said trying not to laugh.
Alex scoffed before he punched his friend's arm. "I like to see you do better wise guy."
"I'll pass. Anyway, back to what I was saying, those Power Rangers seem to be a big deal," Trevor said.
"Look around you, Trevor," Alex said. "Everyone including us is talking about them. They seem to be the big thing in Sunset Beach right now."
"Yup, if only we were that big," Trevor commented.
A lightbulb went off in Alex's head. "I got an idea."
"Wait, what?" Trevor said confused.
"Trevor, these rangers are the biggest thing in town. What do you think happens if we expose their real identities, interview them or even snag a picture of them?" Alex asked.
"We get rich and famous?" Trevor asked.
"Exactly," Alex confirmed.
"I don't know Alex," Trevor said as he scratched his neck. "This seems a little far fetched."
"But a big risk means a bigger reward, my brother from another mother. So do you care to join me?" Alex persuaded
Trevor nodded. "I'm in, let's do this."
"Awesome, with this scheme, we'll be rich and famous in no time!" Alex said.
"I can't wait to be on tv!" Trevor added.
The class suddenly erupted into laughter and the duo realized that they shouted again. They both started shaking as their teacher glared at them.
"Alex, Trevor, you both have detention after school," Ms. Wilson said.
"Damn it," Alex said as he lowered his head.
"Second time this week," Trevor muttered.
The class continued to laugh at the duo's misfortune.
After a long day, Logan enters the locker room to get ready for baseball practice. Logan sighs as he got to his locker, his day was far from over. After practice, he immediately has to report to the Hub for training before he and the other rangers head back to the school for the football game. The professor has encouraged the team to stay close and together and supporting each other at their games was a good way to stay close without being suspicious. Logan got changed into a white practice shirt and pants and he put on his baseball cap before he closed his locker door. As Logan sat down on a bench to put his cleats on, one of his teammates Ryan Owens walked up to him.
"You ready Logan, last practice before the game on Monday?" Ryan asked.
"Definitely man, I been waiting for this all Summer," Logan said.
Sunset Beach High normally has their baseball season during the Spring semester and only have practice in the Fall, but the baseball coach, Christopher Smith was able to schedule an exhibition game with an high school north of the state. Logan has been itching to play again, especially to keep his mind off his mission.
Ryan playfully elbowed Logan. "You think you can set me up with a homer in practice?"
Logan smirked. "You're going to have to work for it because I know this team isn't going easy on you, like I'm not. You want the homer? Earn it bro, because I know you got the skills."
"Fair enough," Ryan said. "Anyway, see you out on the field, bro."
Logan nodded as Ryan left the locker room. This game was a perfect distraction for Logan. It's been a few days since he became a Power Ranger and juggling the responsibilities has been tough on him. Logan is dedicated to his mission, but deep inside, he's afraid there's going to be a time he'll have to choose it over baseball. While Logan will do it, the thought still worries him. Logan finishes tying his cleats up before he left the locker room to head out to the field.
For the last hour, Logan split his practice either pitching or batting. In addition to pitching, Logan was also a batter, but it was clear to the team he was a better pitcher. Logan was on the center of the diamond getting ready to pitch. Ryan was at the batting area with his bat raised, ready to anticipate the throw. Coach Smith was nearby.
"Alright boys, make this one count. Last rep before we end it," the coach called.
Logan smirks at Ryan, remembering his friend's joke from earlier. Logan throws the ball and Ryan missed.
"Strike one!" Smith called.
"Come on Owens, you're better than that," Logan whispered.
Ryan was the best batter on the team, but Logan also had talent. It sets up a friendly rivalry between the two. Logan took a breath before he threw a fast ball right into the catcher's glove. Ryan came close to hitting it, but not good enough.
"Strike two!"
Logan looked at Ryan and smirked.
"Come on Ryan, I know you want it," Logan said.
Ryan smiled before his gripped tighten on his bat.
'He's ready for this one,' Logan said in his mind.
The team watched with interest, the rivalry between the two was always entertaining. Logan took a deep breath and threw the baseball with all his might. On the other side, Ryan took a deep breath as well, before he swung the bat. The team watch as Ryan's bat hit the baseball and it was a hard hit. Logan watched as the baseball flew over the whole field, it was a home run. Logan watched as Ryan ran his way around the diamond. Logan hates losing, but he has no problems losing to someone who deserves it like Ryan did. Coach Smith then called the team together to end practice.
"Great practice boys, I asked all of you to give me your hardest and you all delivered. I think we're ready for the game on Monday. Northside High will be a tough match, but I know you boys are ready. But I do have one more thing to share," Coach Smith explained.
The boys looked at each other in confusion, what could the coach want?
"Because we're playing Monday, I decided to hold practice tomorrow afternoon as well. This is our first game in a while and I want all of you to be prepared. I know this is last minute, but it you want to win, then we need all the practice we can get. See you all here at 12:00 p.m sharp tomorrow. Have a good night boys," Coach Smith said before he nodded and left the field.
Logan shook his head. "Great, there goes my Saturday."
Ryan then came up to Logan.
"I swear man, you don't make it easy, but I like that though," Ryan said.
Logan nodded. "You deserve it Ryan, you work hard more than anybody out here."
"Thanks Logan," Ryan said. "Me and a few of the guys are heading to Tate's if you want to tag along."
"Thanks bro, I appreciate it. But I got plans tonight, but let's definitely hang soon," Logan said.
"Sounds like a plan man, take care," Ryan said before he left the field.
Logan started to head back to his locker. He had to hurry if he was going to get to the hub in time.
Forty five minutes later
Selena walks into Dr. Ashford's fake office to enter the Hub. Selena was wearing her workout clothes which consisted of a pink athletic tank top with grey athletic shorts and grey sneakers. Selena pressed her hand against the map of Sunset Beach and then the secret entrance opened. Selena goes through the secret hallway to enter the Hub where Dr. Ashford, Lydia, and the other rangers were waiting. Dr. Ashford looked up.
"Selena, how nice of you to join us," the professor commented.
Selena shrugged her shoulders. "Traffic's a pain, we are Downtown after all."
"Anyway, moving forward, I want to make today's lesson brief. Into the Simulation Room, everyone," Dr. Ashford said.
Everyone went inside the Simulation Room. The giant room was silver and the first half had some couches, chairs, and tables and a desk with a huge computer, but the other half was a different story. The other half of the room was empty but with the push of a button, it simulate anywhere in the city and any enemy. The sole purpose was for the rangers to practice fighting and improve on their skills.
"Alright, first up is Jalen and Natalie," Dr. Ashford said.
Jalen and Natalie stepped into the bare portion of the room. Lydia then got on the computer and pressed a few buttons. The bare part of the room suddenly changed into Downtown Sunset beach. Holographic Gizbots then appeared to face Jalen and Natalie.
Jalen turned to Natalie. "You ready, Nat?"
"You know I am," Natalie responded.
Jalen nodded before he delivers a right cross to the nearest Gizbot. While the holograms can't physically hurt them, they can still fight back and the goal is to defeat them. Like regular Gizbots, the holograms disappeared after a few hits. The holograms were special too becuase it allows the rangers to get physical hits. Jalen does a roundhouse kick before Natalie jumps in with her own side kick. Jalen and Natalie stand back to back as the remaining Gizbots advanced on them. Jalen ducked to avoid an Gizbot's punch before he punches the robot right in the gut and he performed a sweep kick. Natalie punches a Gizbot in the face before she elbows the robot to knock it down. Jalen and Natalie then grab the two remaining Gizbots and threw them at each other, knocking both robots down. The simulation then faded away as Jalen and Natalie stood victorious.
Dr. Ashford clapped his hands. "Excellent work you too! Rangers, you all know that the point of this exercise is for you all to get better at fighting without relying on the Energy Beasts. That way, if you have to fight, but can't morph, you're all prepared. Dante and Logan are up next."
Dante and Logan step on the simulation floor before the room changed into the woods and the Gizbots appeared again.
Dante clenched his fists. "Keep your guard up."
Logan nodded. "You don't have to worry about me. You got my back and I got yours."
Dante nodded before he ran to the nearest Gizbot and tackled it to the ground.
After a half hour of training, the group left the Simulation Room back to the main Control Room. Dr. Ashford gathered up the rangers.
"You all came far in the span of a few days. You all continued to impress me and I know we will continue to defeat the robots. Get some rest and see you all on Monday. Dante, Logan, good luck on your games as well. Jalen, Natalie, and Selena, you know the drill. Support them at their games and stay close. We learned that the robot's leader is named Xanek and that it could strike anytime. Have a good night everyone," said the professor.
"Take care guys," Lydia added.
As the rangers left the Hub, Jalen patted Dante's shoulder. "We got your back tonight, leader. You got this."
Dante smiled. "Thanks guys. It means a lot to have you in my corner."
"Anytime," Selena added.
"Come on guys, if we're going to make it back in time, we better hurry," Natalie said.
The other Rangers nodded as they got outside and started to head to their cars.
The next day
Back in Xanek's lair, the robots grew restless. Xanek insisted on sending its lieutenants on the city to overwhelm the rangers, but Scyther had insisted on following its plans and making sure they used their army in a stable and smart way and the leader reluctantly agreed. Scyther walked into the Control Center to greet it's master.
"Greetings Lord Xanek," Scyther said.
"What is it this time, my strategist?" Xanek said from its throne.
"I bring to you my next plan."
Xanek raised its head, the leader's curiosity was piqued.
"Well it's about time Scyther. Now spit it out," Xanek snarled.
"We have our next lieutenant attack Downtown again. But there's a busy street just filled with those pitiful humans. Surely the Power Rangers can't saved anyone now can they?" Scyther explained.
"I love it! Corius, awaken the next lieutenant!" Xanek shouted.
Corius was on the computer working on something before the general immediately switched the screen to show the map on Sunset Beach. The camera switched views to an airport that was north of the city. The camera locked on a airplane.
"Yes, this should be a great machine for our lieutenant," Corius said before the camera drone fired a laser on the airplane.
A minute later, the lieutenant entered the room. The robot was silver and it had plane parts around it's body. The robot had wings, and even airplane engines and turbines on it's body. It's head was shaped like a mix of a cockpit and pilot's head.
"I am the Planebot, about time I woke up," the Planebot said to announce it's entrance.
"Planebot, get over here already," Xanek growled.
The lieutenant tensed. "Yes Lord Xanek, right away."
The Planebot made it's way over to the center of the Control Center to faced it's leader.
"Now lieutenant, I have a job for you to do. A fellow lieutenant has already fallen, can I trust you won't meet the same fate?" Xanek said.
"No sir, I won't fail," the Planebot said.
"We shall see if you can back up your word. Now report Downtown and cause havoc. The Power Rangers will probably be there, so destroy them!" Xanek ordered.
"Yes sir!" The lieutenant saluted.
The Planebot made it's way to the transporter before Corius pressed a button and a blue beam hit the Planebot to transport it to it's destination.
Logan was in his room getting ready for baseball practice. He was slightly annoyed to have it on a Saturday but it made sense given that the game was on Monday. Logan slipped on his shirt when his morpher ranged and Lydia's voice came out.
"Guys, we have a problem!"
"What is it, Lydia?" Dante's voice came from the morpher as well.
Logan went over to his dresser where his morpher was and put in it on. Lydia continued to speak.
"We got another robot attack, this one looks strong too. You got to report Downtown on Main Street now!"
"Got it!" The rangers minus Logan yelled.
Logan hesitated, he'll miss practice for sure if he does this. But he has a duty to protect the city, which is a lot more important than some practice.
"Logan, you coming?" Natalie's voice said from the morpher.
Logan took a deep breath and raised his arm to talk to the morpher. "Yeah, I'm on my way."
Logan shook his head, he was so dead if he misses this practice, but he knows what he has to do. Logan put his fingers in the morpher and within seconds, he transported in a black ray of light to head Downtown.
Logan opened his eyes a few seconds later to see that he was on Main Street. People were running away and he can hear destruction and screaming nearby. He turns around and finds Jalen.
"Jalen," Logan calls out and Jalen notices him and runs over.
"Logan, have you found the others yet?" Jalen asked.
Logan shook his head. "No man, I just got here."
Jalen groaned and scanned Main Street. He then noticed Dante, Natalie, and Selena had just appeared across the street. "Found them, let's go!"
Logan nodded and followed Jalen to regroup with his fellow rangers. Dante was the first to noticed them.
"Glad you guys can join us," the leader commented.
"Next time, let's decide on a proper place so we don't get lost,"Jalen chuckled.
"So where's the robot?" Selena asked.
The rangers then hear a loud sound of robotic laughter come around the corner.
"I'm going to take a stab in the dark and guess around the corner," Logan said.
"Follow me," Dante said as he run towards the noise, the others following. The rangers took a hard left on the street and come face to face with their next opponent, the Planebot surrounded by a bunch of Gizbots.
"Hey!" Natalie shouted.
The Planebot turned around and started to laugh.
"Teenagers? Honestly, I find it hard to believe that the fate of the city is being trusted to teenagers!"
Natalie's blood boiled. "Oh yeah? You're going to regret those words when we're through with you!"
Dante puts a hand on her shoulder. "Easy Nat, we can't be reckless."
"I know, but those things get on my nerves," Natalie said.
"You and me both," Jalen commented. The Planebot was starting to get annoyed.
"Hey brats! Quit the chit chat and let's get on it! I don't know how you defeated one of my fellow lieutenants but I promise you won't defeat me. Gizbots attack!
The Planebot points at the rangers and the Gizbots ran toward them. The rangers get into a fighting stance, they also noticed that there were still people in the area.
"We can't morph, there's too many people," Selena said.
"We're going to have to hold off for a little bit, until they're gone. We got this, remember your training guys," Dante said.
Logan cracked his knuckles. "This is going to be fun."
The rangers ran towards the Gizbots and started to fight them. The young teens had grown over the last week and have gotten better on fighting without their powers. Dante ducked a Gizbot's punch before he delivered a uppercut to the robot. Despite the Gizbots being made of metal, the Energy Beasts have given the rangers extra durability even when unmorphed so fighting the Gizbots wouldn't be a problem. Selena then joined Dante and kicked the Gizbot he was fighting down to the ground. Dante and Selena were then knocked down by the Planebot as the lieutenant joined the fight.
"You kids can fight, but now it's time you faced me," the Planebot boasted.
Dante and Selena got up and faced their new foe. "You ready, Selena?" T he Red Ranger asked.
"Yeah, let's do this," the Pink Ranger responded.
Dante and Selena charged at the Planebot, the two rangers both got ready to deliver a punch to the lieutenant. But the Planebot blocked both their punches with just one arm.
"Too easy, now watch this," the Planebot boasted.
The turbines on the Planebot's body then turned on and started to blow air. Dante and Selena gasped as the sudden gust of wind send them flying. Dante grabbed Selena and took the full force of the fall when the teens landed back on the ground. The two rangers slowly got up and faced the lieutenant.
The Planebot scoffed. "I'll admit, you rangers are tougher than you look."
Dante clenched his fists. "It's going to take a lot more than that to put me down."
"Yeah, bring it on!" Selena challenged.
The lieutenant nodded before it dashed towards the rangers, the robot was using its turbines and wings to go faster. Dante and Selena were able to dodge and Dante took the opportunity to delivered a swift kick to the robot's side, but it barely did anything. The Planebot growled before it's turbines suddenly switched sides to blow the Red Ranger away. But this time, Dante was caught by Selena as well as the remaining three rangers who had finished their fight with the Gizbots.
"Dante, are you alright?" Jalen asked as the teens brought Dante to the ground.
Dante rubbed his head. "Yeah, just a little dizzy. Thanks for the save, I don't know if I could have taken another nasty fall."
Jalen smiled. "That's what teammates are for."
"We took care of the Gizbots, now we can fight this thing together," Natalie added
Logan took a look around. "You know guys, the area looks deserted to me. I think it's time."
Natalie nodded. "I think it's time we show this guy we mean business."
The Planebot laughed. "Fighting the two of you was way too easy! Five rangers won't make a difference!"
"I beg to differ," Selena said as she held up her morpher, the others following suit.
"Ok guys, let do this, together!" Dante commanded.
The teens raised their arms. "Energy Beast, Awaken!" They all shouted as they are surrounded by their respective colored energy and within the seconds, the teens faced the lieutenant in their morphed form.
"Hmph, maybe now I'll get a challenge, but you kids are wasting your breath! I will defeat you all in the name of Lord Xanek!" The Planebot boasted.
"Yeah, yeah, we already heard this from the last guy," Logan said as he clenched his fists.
"Fools, then you should realize to never cross my master, you will all pay for your defiance!"
All of a sudden the Planebot's turbines turned on and even morphed, the teens are having a hard time resisting the sudden wind.
"This is going to be a problem," Jalen said as he struggled to stand his ground.
"Not bad, but I can just turn up the speed!" The Planebot said as it started to laugh. The turbines then started to turn faster and faster as the wind became even more powerful.
"It's too powerful," Selena said as she struggled to hold her ground.
Eventually the rangers were sent flying into the side of the building before the five teens fell to the ground. Fortunately, their Ranger form had protected them from any serious injuries. The rangers lay on the ground disoriented as they hear the frantic voice of Dr. Ashford come from the morphers.
"Retreat! The robot's too powerful, you have to get out of there before it's too late!" The professor pleaded.
Natalie attempt to get up but she is kicked down by the Planebot.
"Any last words, Yellow Ranger?"
"Go to Hell," Natalie muttered.
The lieutenant growled at the remark. "Now you die!"
Selena suddenly grabbed the robot's leg.
"I won't let you hurt my friends!" Selena said.
The Planebot kicked Selena away. "You all should have never meddled. It's time to pay the price!"
"No!"
The Planebot turned around to see Dante and Jalen charging at it. The Planebot simply knocked them down with one swipe.
"You kids are in over your head, now it's time I finished this!"
But before the Planebot can do anything, it was suddenly knocked down by a black war hammer that was thrown. The Planebot angrily got up and turned around as the war hammer went back to its master. Logan caught the hammer in his hand. He was tired, but he still had fight left in him.
"You dare defy me?!" The Planebot snarled.
"Did you really think I was going to stand by while you hurt my friends and teammates. I don't think so buddy," Logan said as he glared at the robot.
Logan then charged at the lieutenant swinging his war hammer. The Planebot gets ready to strike, but the robot is stunned when Logan intercepts it and is knocked back by the massive hammer. The Planebot flies a few feet before hitting the ground. Logan's morpher then goes off.
"Logan that's enough, all of you need to retreat!" Dr. Ashford said through the morpher.
Logan raised his arm to speak. "You can't be serious, Doc. I can take it."
"You and your teammates are exhausted. It's too dangerous to continue without a plan. This is for you and the other's safety and best interest," said the professor.
Logan sighed. "Roger, we're coming back to the Hub." The others then walked up to him.
"Perfect timing as always, Armstrong," Natalie said.
"What can I say? I'm here to save the day. Anyway, I just spoke with Doc, he wants us to retreat," Logan explained.
Dante nodded. "We'll deal with Metalhead later, for now heading back is definitely our best option right now."
The others nodded as they teleported back to the Hub using their morphers.
The Planebot got up and growled before it suddenly teleported away back to it's master's lair.
Dr. Ashford and Lydia were waiting in the Hub waiting for the rangers to return. As soon as Lydia saw the rays of energy, she immediately got up from her chair to greet the rangers. The energy faded away and the rangers powered down as Lydia approached them.
"Oh my god, are you guys ok?" Lydia asked.
Jalen rubbed his head. "Yeah, we just got a little shaken up. Nothing serious."
Dr. Ashford approached the group. "I'm just grateful and relived you're all ok. I think we may have underestimated the robots a little bit."
Dante shook his head. "Yeah, but we have to be careful. We can't rush into situations like that. As leader. I take responsibility for our failure today."
"Don't be ridiculous Dante! You did the best you could, we all feel the same," Natalie said.
"I guess I tend to be my biggest critic," Dante said.
"We're a team, we stand together and we fall together. Now I just hope we can improve on what happened when it comes back," Selena said.
The professor nodded. "There's no doubt that Xanek will send this particular robot back to finish what it started. Now it's more important that you all are prepared. Granted, sooner or later, we would hit a roadblock. But I hoped it wouldn't be that soon."
"Good thing Logan saved us. That was way too close for comfort," Selena added.
"You're all welcome," Logan said. "I got you all, after all we're a team. Sorry to run, but I got somewhere to be."
"Where to?" Lydia asked with curiosity.
Logan suddenly looked more tense. "No time to explain guys. I'll see you all later."
Logan suddenly teleported away from the Hub. His actions left the team confused.
"That was strange, even for Logan," Jalen commented.
"Yeah, he seemed tense or even stressed," Natalie agreed.
"Give him a day or two, it's probably something important. There's no other reason why he would take off all of a sudden," Dr. Ashford said.
"Yeah guys," Lydia said. "Logan may be impulsive at times but he has his priorities straight. I'm sure he'll explain more in the next day or two."
Dante nodded. "It's probably nothing bad, we'll see how he is at school Monday."
"Good, you all do that and make sure he's alright," Dr. Ashford said. "Keep your heads up as well. Today was rough, but I'm confident with the way you're all improving. Come next time, I'm confident you'll win."
The rangers all smiled and thanked the professor and Lydia before the remaining four teenagers teleported out of the Hub.
Logan pulled into the parking lot of Sunset Beach High. Logan stopped his car and took a look at the time on his phone.
"Dammit!" Logan shouted. "I'm a hour late, Coach is going to kill me."
Logan shook his head and got out. When he got his gear out of the trunk of his car, the Black Ranger sprinted to the baseball field at the back of the school. To Logan's shock and horror, it looked like practice was over when he got to the field. Coach Smith was packing up equipment while Logan's teammates were leaving the field. A couple of Logan's teammates, Ryan and Carlos stopped to to talk to Logan.
"Logan where were you?" Ryan asked. "You never miss practice."
"I know, I had something to take of. How did Coach react?" Logan asked.
Carlos shook his head. "Hermano, he wasn't happy. You know how he is about players not showing up on time without an explanation."
"Plus, right before a game too," Ryan added.
"I know, I'm going to talk to him to try to set things right," Logan said.
"Armstrong!" A voice shouted. The three baseball players turned around to see that it was their coach who yelled.
"You better go see what he wants dude," Ryan said.
"Hopefully he's not too mad. Good luck," Carlo added.
"Thanks guys, I'll handle it from here," Logan said as he said goodbye to his friends. Logan jogged up to Coach Smith to see what he wanted.
"My office, now," Coach Smith said. Logan noticed in his tone that he was more disappointed than mad.
Logan gulped and nodded. Coach Smith took Logan off the field and they went into the gym into his office. When the two arrived, Smith sat down behind his desk while Logan took the chair in front of it. Coach Smith took his hat off and ran a hand through his hair and signed.
"Logan, I'm only going to ask you one time. Where were you?"
Logan gulped. "Coach, I know I missed practice. But you have to believe me, it was important."
"Logan, you knew that we had practice and you knew we had a game Monday. Yet, you didn't show up. No email, or phone call, nothing," Coach Smith said.
"I know and I take full responsibility for my actions, but what I had couldn't wait," Logan said.
"I need you to tell me what happened. Look I know you, Logan. You may have your reasons, but I need you to be transparent with me about the situation," Coach Smith said.
"Coach, I'm sorry, but my reasons are personal. I just don't feel comfortable explaining why I was gone today," Logan said. A part of him wanted to confess his secret, but he knows he can't and he had a feeling his coach wouldn't' have believed him anyway.
Coach Smith took a deep breath. "Logan, I'm not mad, but I'm very disappointed in you. I'm sorry but you leave me no choice."
Logan's eyes widen. "Coach you don't mean.. you can't be serious," the teen stammered. He had a bad feeling what was about to happen.
"As punishment for missing practice, I'm benching you for Monday's game. Mayfield's going to be our starting pitcher," Coach Smith solemnly said.
Logan got up from his chair. "Are you kidding me!? I never missed a single practice and you're going to bench me for one mistake?"
"Logan, I don't want to bench you, but I can't let you off without a punishment. I don't show favoritism and missing practice without a good reason means being benched," Coach Smith said.
Logan sat down and buried his face in his hands. Those were words he never wanted to hear.
"Logan, I need you to understand. You're my best pitcher, but your actions have consequences. Now like I said you're being benched as pitcher. But I will allow you to bat if I'm given the chance. We still have a few months before the season. If you can proved to me that I can trust you to never miss practice and give it a 100% effort, then the starting spot will be yours again. Do you understand?" Coach Smith asked.
Logan looked up. "I understand Coach. I promise this won't happen again. I will win back my spot."
"I know you will. Go on, get some rest," Coach Smith said.
Logan nodded and left the office. On the whole walk back to his car, his mind was numb. He lost his starter position. He's not going to pitch on Monday. He doesn't mind batting, but it's not the same. Logan finally got to his car and got in. Logan shook his head one last time before he pulled out of the parking lot.
Back at Xanek's lair, the Planebot arrived, but it's ego was shattered. As the Planebot walked into the Control Room, Xanek wasn't there, but Nexus and Talus were currently in the room.
"Well, well, well, I guess you couldn't back up anything, Planebot," Talus smirked.
"Get your facts straight, Talus! I nearly defeated the rangers!" Planebot countered.
"But nearly isn't good enough. That Black Ranger gave you trouble," Talus said.
Planebot hesitated. "I'll admit that he took me by surprise, but next time I will destroy them."
"You better hope you back up your word, Planebot," Nexus warned. "Lord Xanek doesn't tolerate failure and unlike the last lieutenant who failed, you're still functional."
Planebot rolled it's eyes. "Oh please Nexus, I'm sure Lord Xanek believes in my abilities. After all, I was chosen out of the others still in stasis to fight. I'm not going anywhere!"
"Planebot!" Xanek roared as it entered the Control Room. Planebot turned around and to Nexus and Talus's amusement, the lieutenant was stunned.
"Lord Xanek, I'm pleased to report that the rangers are nearly beaten," Planebot stammered.
Xanek walked up to the Planebot. "Enough with the excuses, that one ranger almost destroyed you! In my army, there is no such thing as failure!"
"Of course my lord," Planebot said. "But not to worry, next time I will surly achieve victory!"
Xanek glared harder. "One more chance my lieutenant, one more chance. When Scyther gives you the order, you will report to the city and destroy those Power Rangers. And don't forget their morphers!"
Planebot saluted. "I won't fail you this time my lord!"
Xanek grunted before it stormed out of the Control Room. Talus and Nexus approached the lieutenant.
Talus smirked. "You know, I never seen our leader that mad. It would be a shame if you failed, Planebot."
"Yes, you wouldn't want to fail your mission or upset our master," Nexus added.
Planebot growled in frustration. "You two aren't helping. I will destroy those Power Rangers even if it kills me. I will make them pay for making a fool out of me!"
Planebot then left the Control Room as Talus and Nexus laughed at the lieutenant's misfortune.
Two days later
It was Monday as Logan reluctantly entered the school. Even though it has been two days, Logan still couldn't believed what happened. He look down at the jersey he was wearing. It was tradition for the athletes of Sunset Beach High to wear their jersey at game day. The school's colors were black and blue, but the baseball team wears white at home so Logan's jersey was white with a black and blue outline. Logan just shook his head.
'What's the point of wearing this? Even if I play, I'm not pitching,' Logan said in his mind.
Logan entered his math class and sat down at his usual seat. Dante was already sitting down next to him. The Red Ranger noticed his teammate as Logan sat down.
"Hey Logan, you all alright man?" Dante asked.
"I don't want to talk about it," Logan responds.
Dante sensed that something was bothering his friend, but he reluctantly dropped the subject as their teacher started the class.
Throughout the day, Logan just kept silent and avoided every attempt from the others rangers to talk to him. Even though he shares classes with his teammates, he managed to avoid talking to them until it was time for lunch. Logan got his lunch and went to sit down at the table he and the rangers sit at. A few minutes later, the remaining four sat down and it was clear that they didn't like Logan's change of behavior.
"Logan, we need to talk," Dante said.
"No, we don't," Logan sternly said before he started eating his sandwich.
Natalie groaned. "Dammit Armstrong! You're obviously not yourself, we're just trying to see what we can do to help."
Logan continued to ignore him.
"Dude, we're a team. We can't keep secrets from each other. We know something's messing with you," Jalen pleaded.
Logan sighs. "Guys, even if I tell you, you're not going to understand what I'm going through. You're better off letting me deal with it myself."
"But Logan, you know that we're here for you. We just want to help. If something's bothering you, it's worse to hold it in," Selena said.
"Come on bro, you know we got your back like you got ours," Dante added.
Logan looked at his teammates before he took a deep breath. "You guys really want to know what's been bugging me?"
His teammates nodded, they were committed to help their friend.
"Ok," Logan agreed. "When I bolted Saturday, it was because I had a last minute baseball practice, but I needed up missing the whole thing when we were fighting that robot."
"I get it, my coach is huge about never missing practice," Natalie said.
"Wait, it get worse, doesn't it?" Selena asked in a concerned voice.
"Yeah, my coach wasn't happy about it. When I couldn't tell him where I was, he decided that he was benching me today. I'll be lucky to even bat today," Logan explained.
Logan's teammates nodded their heads in sympathy. As they are all athletes, they all couldn't imagined being benched.
"Logan, I'm sorry," Jalen said. "That must have been tough."
"Easy for you to say. I kept our secret and I paid the price. There could have been scouts in the stands and I freaking blew it. I'll be lucky to see them at another game if I get my spot back. What kind of player am I?" Logan asked.
"A brave person and a hero," Dante said.
Logan looked at the teen in shock. He wasn't expecting those kinds of words.
"We all love what we do, but the fact that you sacrificed everything you worked hard for to fight the robots, it shows you will do everything to protect the city. It shows that the Energy Beasts choose the right person. You made the right choice Logan," Dante continued.
Logan ran a hand through his hair. "Thanks Dante, you have no idea how much that helped."
Dante nodded. "It's the truth."
"Yeah, and we'll always support you no matter what," Selena added.
"Including being there at your game today," Natalie said.
Logan shook his head. "Guys, you're wasting your time. I would be lucky to play."
"No man, you will play and we will be there to cheer you on," Jalen said.
Logan smiled. "I don't deserve teammates like you all, but thank you for everything."
After that, the five continued with lunch with no problems and the five were able to be teenagers, even for just a short while.
A few hours later
Dante, Jalen, Natalie, and Selena walked into the stands of the baseball field before sitting down. It was time for the game and the rangers were committed to showing their support for Logan.
"I really hope our talk got through to Logan," Selena said.
"It had to, he was a lot more upbeat ever since lunch," Natalie added.
"Yeah, all we can do now is support him," Dante said.
"Here he comes now," Jalen said as pointed towards the field.
The two opposing baseball teams both run into the field. Logan's team was in all white with a black and blue outline. The team had their team team the Panthers on the front with their numbers on the back. Logan was wearing a black 5 on the back of his jersey. The opposing team, Northside was in all grey with a green outline with the word Dragons on the front of their jersey.
"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to today's match between the Northside High Dragons vs our very own Sunset Beach High Panthers!" The announcer said from the announcer's box on top of the stands.
After 15 minutes, the game was ready to start and Sunset Beach High was pitching first. As expected, instead of Logan, his teammate Jordan Mayfield was starting. Jordan was a sophomore and he was expected to start full time when Logan graduates in May. Jordan had talent, but he still needed time to develop. Jordan threw the ball and the catcher caught it.
"Strike one!" Yelled the umpire.
"He's not bad," Jalen commented.
Jordan's next throw ended up being hit by the batter. It was a good hit, but the boy was only able to make it to first base before the ball was thrown back to Jordan.
"Yeah, but he's not as good as Logan," Natalie said.
"I just feel awful. It's our fault he got benched," Selena said.
"It stinks, but we have a mission. It's going to happen to all of us soon. Having to chose our duty over sports. But we know what's right in the end," Dante said.
The other three nodded at those words. There was no question being the Power Rangers was more important than high school sports.
A hour later, it was bottom of the 5th inning of the game. Sunset Beach High was down 5-4. Northside was talented, but the Panthers were more than determined to catch up. Logan unfortunately hasn't had a chance to bat yet.
"Logan still hasn't gone up," Selena said with a frown.
"He'll get his chance," Jalen assured. "But man, his coach is really making sure he got punished."
"Yeah, I think my coach would have benched me a whole game as well as making practice more difficult for me for missing practice," Dante said.
"Nah man, my coach would make me run laps until my legs snapped off and then he would make me keep running," Jalen said.
As the group laughed, their morphers went off. The teens immediately stiffened and got together to make sure no can hear their conversation.
"Team, we got a problem," Dr. Ashford said from the morpher.
"Is it the Planebot?" Natalie asked.
"Yeah guys, it's back and this time it looks furious," Lydia chimed in from the morpher.
"Where is it?" Dante asked.
"I need you all to report to the Suburbs, it's attacking on Douglas Lane," Dr. Ashford said.
"Understood, but Doc, we got a problem," Dante said.
"What is it?" The professor asked.
The teens looked at the dugout where Logan was sitting, they noticed he didn't have his morpher on him.
"It's Logan, he's still in the middle of his game," Selena explained.
"I was afraid this would eventually happen. If you take him out of the game, it would raise suspicion. You have to go on without him," the professor said.
"Doc, is that wise?" Jalen asked.
"I don't like the idea of you all fighting without full strength, but we have no choice. I have faith you can defeat the robot," Dr. Ashford said.
"Understood, we're on our way," Dante said as the conversation ended. "Come on guys, we got work to do."
The others nodded as they quickly left the stand.
Ten miles away in the Suburbs, the Planebot is wrecking havoc on Douglas Lane, a common populated street filled with multiple shopping plazas. The rangers minus Logan teleported right to the scene of the destruction. The teens were already morphed and ready to fight. The Planebot noticed their entrance and was not thrilled to see them.
"Rangers, we meet again, but this time I will emerge victorious!" The Planebot boasted.
"I don't think so," Dante said as his sword materializes in his hand. The other rangers also started to wield their weapons.
The Planebot grunted. "Wait a second, wasn't there five of you? Where's that obnoxious Black Ranger?"
"That's not important Tinhead, your fight is with us!" Natalie declared.
"So be it. I'll take care of him when I destroy all of you!" The Planebot shouted.
The Planebot rushed towards the rangers, but together, Jalen and Natalie intercepted the lieutenant's strike with their weapons, while Dante flips over the robot to deliver a strike with his sword. The lieutenant angrily turned around and knocked the Blue and Yellow Ranger away to fight Dante. The Planebot and Dante exchanged strikes and it looks like a stalemate until Selena fires an arrow right at the Planebot's head. It only made the lieutenant mad. The Planebot grabbed Dante and threw him towards his teammates.
"This ends now!" The Planebot shouts as it powers up it's turbines.
"Not this again!" Natalie shouted.
"We got to hold on!" Jalen said.
Eventually, the rangers lose their footing and all four of them were sent flying.
"Logan, please hurry," Selena whispered as the four rangers crashed to the ground.
Back at the baseball game, it was now the bottom of the 8th inning. The game was a tied match at 6-6. The game was too close for comfort as the Panthers try to score to finally get the lead. Logan is still sitting at the dugout, hoping for a chance to bat. His friend and teammate, Carlos was next to him.
"God, this sucks," Logan said.
"I know man. A game like this just feels wrong that you're not playing," Carlos said.
"Jordan's playing well though, I think he'll do good next year," Logan commented.
"He should, you helped trained him. But it's not the same for now. You deserved to be out there and I guarantee you that if you don't bat, I'm having a word with Coach afterward," Carlos said.
Logan nodded. "Thanks bro, but for now I just have to accept my punishment."
Carlos nodded before he got up to go bat for the Panthers. Logan watched his friend hit a single and ran to first base. Logan shook his head before he felt his backpack shake underneath him. Logan reached down and picked it up his backpack.
'It has to be the morpher,' Logan said in his mind.
Logan reached into his bag and took out his morpher. He then started to hear sounds of his teammates shouts of pain and a hint of laughter from the Planebot. Logan's eyes widen and he immediately scanned the stands and saw no trace of his friends.
'Dammit, they're fighting that freak without me. And they're in trouble,' Logan said in his mind.
Logan looked at the game one last time before looking down at his morpher. He took a deep breath.
"My friends and this city's safety is a lot more important than a baseball game," Logan whispered before he strapped his morpher on and got his backpack. Logan got up and started to exit the dugout before he was stopped by a voice.
"Logan, it's your turn to bat," Coach Smith said.
Logan turned around and went up to his coach. "Coach, I'm sorry. I'm grateful for the opportunity, but I need to go right now."
"Right now? We're in the middle of a game here. You can't just leave," Coach Smith said sternly.
"What's happening and what I need to do is a lot more important than a exhibition game. Coach, I'm sorry," Logan said as turned around and walked away.
"Armstrong, if you leave, you will face a more severe punishment," Smith warned.
Logan stopped for a second and turned around. "Then I guess I have to face the consequences of my actions."
With those last words, Logan exited the dugout and ran away from the field.
"Hold on, guys. I'm on my way!" Logan shouted.
Back on Douglas Lane, the rangers got up and faced the Planebot again. They were a little hurt, but they refused to give up.
"For crying out loud! What is it going to take to finally destroy all of you!?" The lieutenant snarled.
"Don't you see? We swore to protect Sunset Beach and we will keep fighting no matter what. I would rather die than let your crazy leader take over our home," Dante said as he raised his sword in defense.
"Don't worry Red Ranger, you will all be dead when that day comes," the Planebot said.
The Planebot then charged forward and the rangers raised their weapons in defense. But all of a sudden, Logan came out of nowhere and intercepted the lieutenant with his war hammer.
The Planebot was stunned. "You!?"
Logan smirked. "Miss me?"
Logan then swung his war hammer around and was able to knock the Planebot back a few feet. The other rangers ran up to him.
"Logan, what are you doing here?" Selena asked. "What about your game?"
"That doesn't matter. Right now, we need to focus on defeating that hunk of metal together," Logan said.
"Logan, you didn't," Jalen started.
"What I did isn't important. I'm here because I won't abandon you guys. We're a team and together we'll take this freak down," Logan said.
Dante smiled. "Then let's do this, together."
The five rangers raised their weapons at the Planebot as it got up.
"Touching reunion, but it still won't be enough!" The lieutenant boasted as it's turbines started back up and start to blast air.
"That thing is really starting to get on my nerves!" Natalie shouted as she tried to withstand the attack.
Nearby, the duo of Alex and Trevor were still in the area despite the danger in a effort to do their scheme.
"Do you have the camera, Trevor?" Alex asked.
"Yeah," Trevor responded as held up his camera. "But two questions, why do we need it and why the hell are we in an area that is being attacked?"
"Trevor, in order for us to be rich we need high quality pictures of the rangers in action. This is why we need to get pictures of them fighting that weird robot," Alex explained.
"Are you crazy, Alex? We can get hurt or even die," Trevor protested.
"High risk, high reward," Alex responded. "Now quick, we need to get closer.
The two best friends moved forward until they were 50 feet away from the rangers and the Planebot. The lieutenant had just started it's turbines.
"Quick Trevor, take the pictures!" Alex shouted.
"Working on it!" Trevor responded.
Suddenly, the two were caught in the Planebot's turbines.
"What's happening?" Alex said in panic.
The two best friends were then blown away by the sudden force of air.
"Someone save us!" The two best friends shouted as they were blown away, screaming and holding on to each other.
Back with the rangers, they were struggling to withstand the sudden force of wind. Logan suddenly had an idea. Logan jammed his war hammer into the ground and used it's massive size to create a space where the air didn't reach him. Selena was next to Logan and the Black Ranger quickly pulled his teammate into the space with him.
"Selena, I got an idea," Logan said.
"I'm all ears," the Pink Ranger responded.
"I need you to use your bow and try to take out that thing's turbines," Logan quickly said.
"Are you sure that will even work?" Selena questioned.
"It was the best idea I can come up with, we just need to get rid of those turbines," Logan responded.
Selena nodded as she crouched. Selena raised her bow and fired an arrow straight into the Planebot. The arrow made it through the air right into the left turbine. The turbine exploded and the Planebot staggered.
"What?! That's impossible!" The lieutenant roared.
"Now Selena, take out the other one," Logan urged.
"Got it," she respond as he fired another arrow into the other turbine. The Planebot shouted in anger as it's main attack was finally destroyed. The rangers got their footing back and took a deep breath.
"Thank you, Selena," Jalen said between breaths.
Selena motioned to Logan. "Thank Logan, it was all his idea."
"Great job Logan, you literally saved us," Natalie said.
"Thanks, but it's not over yet," Logan said as the rangers faced the Planebot again.
The Planebot was staggering. "This changes nothing."
"Oh but it does, now we can finally fight," Dante said as he rushed at the robot.
The lieutenant got ready to defend but Dante did a sudden front flip over the Planebot. Dante slashed his sword across the Planebot before kicking him over to Natalie who stabbed the robot with her spear. Jalen knocked the robot over to Logan with his trident.
"Now it's time to finish this! Energy War Hammer, Grand Slam!" Logan shouted.
Logan jumped really high as his war hammer got bigger. Logan then started to fall but he thrusted his hammer down and when Logan landed, he crushed the Planebot with the war hammer. Logan then lifted his hammer and strikes the Planebot with one last strike.
"Ahhh!" The Planebot shouted as it short circuited and exploded.
The rangers ran to Logan.
"Dude, that was sick!" Jalen said.
Logan nodded. "Yeah, that attack literally just came to me,"
As the rangers laughed, it was cut short by the Planebot reappearing, but time it was bigger, the bot was laughing as well.
"Great, I forgot about that," Natalie groaned.
"Looks like this is going to happen every time we defeat one of those guys. Let's go take care of it!" Dante said.
The rangers nodded and lift their arms.
"Energy Beast, Rise!"
Energy exploded out of their morphers as it took shape into the Energy Zords. The rangers were starting to get familiar with this new way of fighting as they jumped into their respective zords. The rangers wasted no time combining.
"Energy Beast, Combine!"
The zords immediately combined into the Wild Energy Megazord as the rangers met in the cockpit to get ready to face the Planebot.
"Wild Energy Megazord!" The rangers shouted.
"Let's see if you handle this, rangers!" The bot shouted.
The Planebot's turbines immediately started up.
"There's no way we're going through this again," Dante said.
The megazord's saber materializes in it's hand as the megazord dashes to the Planebot and cut off both turrets in one strike.
"No!" The lieutenant shouted.
In the cockpit, Logan turned to Dante.
"Hey leader, mind if I try something?" He asked.
"Go for it," Dante nodded.
"Awesome, let's try this out," Logan's said.
The saber disappeared and Logan's war hammer appeared in giant form for the megazord to wield. The Planebot look worried.
"No, not this again," the lieutenant muttered.
"Energy War Hammer, Annihilation!" The rangers shouted.
The megazord started to spin around swinging the war hammer until the megazord jumped and thrusted the hammer on the Planebot. The Planebot shrieked as it short circuited and exploded for the last time.
"Threat neutralized!"
As the rangers got back on the street after their megazord disappeared, they heard a cry for help.
"Someone help us!" The voice shouted.
"What was that?" Selena asked.
Logan shrugged. "Don't know but it sounded familiar."
"It came from that tree over there, let's check it out," Jalen said.
The group walked towards a huge tree at a park nearby. On the top of the tree was Alex and Trevor who had landed there after being blown away by the Planebot. Alex was the first to notice the group.
"Power Rangers, thank God you came. Uhh, can you help us down?" Alex asked.
"I got you, give me one second," Logan said as his war hammer materializes in his hand.
Alex saw the hammer and realized what was about to happen. "Wait a minute, we changed our minds, we can get down here ourselves!"
Logan ignored Alex's plea as he swung his war hammer at the tree and the force knocked both Alex and Trevor to the ground. The duo landed on each other and were a little dazed.
"Thank you," Trevor weakly said.
Natalie put a hand on her hip. "That was a little excessive."
"Hey, it worked. Come on guys, let's head to the Hub," Logan said.
After making sure Alex and Trevor were ok, the rangers teleported away leaving the duo alone.
"Trevor, did you managed to get the pictures?" Alex asked.
"Yup, sure did," Trevor responded as he held up his camera.
To the duo's shock and horror, the camera was broken and destroyed. Either when they landed on the tree or when they fell. Regardless, the pictures were lost for good.
"There goes our pictures!" Alex said in disbelief.
"That camera costed me 300 bucks!" Trevor cried out.
Both the duo groaned at their latest misfortune as they both struggled to get up.
Back at the Hub, the rangers teleported back to meet Dr. Ashford and Lydia. When they arrived, they demorphed and the group noticed that Logan was still dressed in his team jersey.
"Logan, you walked out on the game didn't you?" Lydia asked.
Logan nodded. "Yeah, when I heard you guys were in trouble, the game didn't mattered anymore. You all were more important," Logan said.
"But Logan, what about your coach? He benched you last time," Selena said.
"Yeah and he wasn't happy I left today either, but the mission's more important," Logan responded.
"You sacrificed a lot to help your teammates and I think you kept your cover as well. Great job Logan," Dr. Ashford said.
"I know I did the right thing, I just hope I still have a spot on the team," Logan solemnly said.
"What's next for you?" Dante asked.
"I'm going to his office tomorrow after school to try to explain why I left. I'm going to do a lot of lying to cover my tracks. But I'm going to apologize and hope everything works out," Logan said.
"I hope everything works out," Dr. Ashford said.
Logan nodded. "Thanks guys, but right now, I need to be alone to process all of this."
Logan then teleported away from the Hub, leaving the rangers with the professor and Lydia.
Dante turned to the professor. "He sacrificed a lot for us today. Hell, he was willing to sacrifice his baseball career. I think we need to do everything we can to return the favor."
Dr. Ashford smiled. "I agree, and I know exactly what to do."
The next day
Logan walked into the gym after school to talk to his coach. He was willing to do everything to make up for what happened yesterday. Logan heard that his team won 7-6 at the last minute, thanks to a home run by his teammate Ryan. While Logan didn't regret his decision, he just hopes it didn't cost him his spot on the team. Logan reached Coach Smith's office and knocked on the door. Logan then entered to find his coach talking with a man. The man turned around and to Logan's shock, the man was Dr. Ashford.
"Dr. Ashford? I wasn't expecting to see you here," Logan said in shock.
Dr. Ashford smiled. "After what you did yesterday, I decided to talk to your coach and explain what happened."
Logan's eyes widen. "Doc, you didn't."
Coach Smith then spoke up. "Logan, you should have told me what you been doing. I would have understand since you're doing a good thing. After all, it's been a long time since I heard of an athlete going out of his way to help a professor with his research."
Logan looked at the professor and he motioned Logan to go along with the lie.
"Yeah, I decided to help Dr. Ashford since he needed some help with his archeology research," Logan said.
"As I explained earlier Coach Smith, I'm making sure to write Logan a letter of recommendation to Sunset Beach University for the hard work he's been doing," Dr. Ashford said.
"Coach Smith nodded. "I understand why you kept this a secret, but you should have told me, Logan."
Logan nodded. "I know and I'm sorry. I came to ask about my punishment for walking out on the game and if there was anything I can do to make it up."
Smith scratched his chin. "You know what, I already benched you a whole game and you had your reasons. You won't be punished anymore, but you still need to earn your starting spot back. After all, Mayfield played well, he can be good competition."
Logan smiled. "Coach, thank you for understanding. I'm more than prepared to fight for my spot."
"I know you are. I canceled practice today because of the win. So go on and have a good day, Logan. And it was nice meeting you Dr. Ashford," Smith said.
Logan and Dr. Ashford each shake Coach Smith's hand before leaving. The two of them left the gym together before Logan stopped the professor.
"You know you saved my ass back there, right?" Logan said.
"Of course," the professor responded.
"But why did you go through the trouble? What happens here isn't your priority or business. The mission is more important," Logan asked.
The professor smiled. "What you did yesterday was not easy and you were willing to sacrifice everything to save the day. I feel that you deserve to keep doing what you love and I wanted to help any way I can."
"And that letter of recommendation?" Logan asked with a laugh.
Dr. Ashford chuckled. "Don't worry, you and your teammates will get genuine letters to the college of your choice as thanks for saving the city."
"Looking forward to it. But seriously Doc, thanks for everything," Logan said.
Dr. Ashford shrugged. "My pleasure, but I can't take all of the credit."
Dr. Ashford motioned to the end of the sidewalk near the main school building where Dante, Jalen, Natalie, and Selena were waiting.
"Your teammates wanted to help because they care for you as a friend. They helped you, I only reached out to your coach. Take care Logan, see you at the Hub tomorrow. I canceled training," Dr. Ashford explained.
Logan nodded and went off to his friends as Dr. Ashford walked away in the opposite direction. The rangers were waiting to meet him.
"Well?" Natalie asked.
Logan smiled. "I'm still on the team, but I got to earn my spot back."
"Congrats," Selena said.
"That should be easy for you," Jalen assured.
Logan nodded. "Yeah, but I can't wait to get back and earn it. But guys, Doc told me everything. Thank you, you all didn't have to go through the trouble."
"We wanted to because you're our teammate and it was the right thing to do after what you did. Besides we all know you would do the same for us," Dante said.
Logan smiled. He truly had the best teammates and he was determined to be the same to them. Logan grabbed his teammates.
"Come on guys, Doc canceled training. Let's go to Tate's, lunch's on me today," the Black Ranger said.
Together, the five young rangers walked to the parking lot laughing the whole way.
Hey guys, I'm back with Chapter 3! Sorry this took a couple of months, I was really swamped with both school and work. But I finally got the chapter out and I'm really satisfied with how it came out. For future chapters, I'm positive it won't take as long as this one, but with life, I'm not sure when I'll get Chapter 4 out. But trust me, it will be here soon. I love this story and I'm here until the end. I hope you all enjoyed this chapter and the story. Please keep the reviews coming, and I'll see you guys soon with Chapter 4!