A/N: Sooo, this has to be the longest update known to man. Just kidding, but after nine months away from this story, I'm sure a lot of readers are wondering what's happened or when would another chapter be added. I deeply apologize for neglecting this story. Granted, I don't update as much I used to, but I have been able to update my other stories, create other stories, and/or post one-shots.
A/N: The female rangers, to me, are very complex. I probably pay more attention to them than the males. It's probably because I'm female, but there's also not a lot of them too. So, I have a lot of history to comb through, which makes me feel bogged down and sometimes causes me to become uninterested in writing the story. However, I need to finish this, so I'll start adding more chapters.
A/N: This chapter is different than the others, as Syd's chapter will have a Q&A session.
Chapter 14: Sydney's Status
Xxxxx
Frederick's of Hollywood
Fashion Show Mall
Las Vegas Nevada
"Maya, why are your boobs so big," Vida asked, while trying to find the right bra that would give her some lift. She kept sliding the hangers over at a rapid pace.
Maddie laughed at her older sister. "You know, you probably won't be able to find what you are looking for, if you keep that up." She headed towards the corner of the store. There was a great sale on underwear. She became ecstatic at the variety. There had to be every hue of blue proudly displayed.
Maya rolled her eyes. "I guess women in Mirinoi are built differently," she looked in a mirror and checked herself out. "My breasts are a 42 C, bordering to a 38/40 D, depending on what bra I wear." The other female rangers began to self consciously examine their chests. They frowned. Maya rolled her eyes. She didn't mean to brag. "When I wore my power suit," she carefully whispered as she began, "I didn't have to think about taping down my breasts. It probably looked like I didn't have any."
"I had some when I wore mine," Tanya figured as she thought about it some more. "Poor Trini and Aisha, theirs varied." She found the perfect bras and couldn't wait to purchase them.
"As a married woman, I'd like to think my husband would drool over this," Alyssa held up a sheer, pink and red lingerie baby doll. Her head filled with naughty thoughts.
Maddie, Tanya, and Maya went to find something similar. Of course there was a blue one, but there was only one yellow. Maya and Tanya groaned.
Sydney Drew smirked at Alyssa Enrile-Evans. "Thinking about getting knocked up again," she teased the former White Wild Force Tiger Ranger. Alyssa cheerfully smiled. Sydney returned back to shopping. Being from the future, she couldn't contain her excitement at all of the fashion in this time. "Oh God, I love these clothes, it's like so totally vintage!"
The former Yellow Zeo/Turbo, Yellow Lost Galaxy, White Wild Force, Pink Space Patrol Delta, and Pink and Blue Mystic Force Rangers had been shopping for the past hour. The rest of the female rangers were spread out all over Las Vegas. Some were lazily lounging by the pool, others were vigorously working off the calories they've been eating or drinking, a few women spoke about gambling and tasting the finest cuisines the strip had to offer.
These women decided shopping was on the agenda today, and the first store they headed to was this lingerie store. Victoria Secret's could've been another option, but Frederick's of Hollywood catered to Maya's size. This place fulfilled women's intimate needs. In addition, the bras, underwear, sexy lingerie would make their men melt. Besides, tonight, they all decided to head to Cirque de Soleil in flashy outfits, so it was necessary that their undergarments helped them to look their best.
The salesperson had overheard Sydney Drew-Tate's remark, and she became very offended by the words. "Ma'am, these are the latest styles. There's no vintage here. If you would like vintage, you can go to a consignment shop or possibly the Salvation Army," she snootily replied to Syd's comment.
The former Pink SPD Ranger didn't like her tone, nor did she like the way she was spoken to. "Excuse me, but I've worked with some top designers before. I've planned elaborate weddings to the rich and famous, and as payment, the fashion designers have given me beautifully crafted dresses that are very nova," she sneaked in a future slang word.
Alyssa, Tanya, Maddie, Vida, and Maya instantly froze at her word. They were worried Syd was going to expose she was from the future.
"From the look of your style, I highly doubt you have famous clientele madam," the woman looked disgusted by Sydney.
"Sophia Annabella is famous," Syd forcefully insisted while staring this woman down. "And there's nothing wrong with the way I'm dressed." She gazed at her nicely put together outfit. Her wardrobe for the day consisted of a casual black tee, a hot pink, poplar skirt with wedges that were a mix of gladiator and princess. She was carrying a clutch made by the wonderful Sophia Annabella, who was like a little sister to Syd.
"I've never heard of her; you must be mistaking her for a woman you've conjured in your brain," the salesperson remarked snidely with a little smirk present. "Bleach blonde dye can do that to a woman."
Syd pursed her lips together, and she wanted to attack the woman. The fact her hair was spoken about, her blood furiously boiled. "I can show you a picture," the previous Pink SPD Ranger was determined to prove her point. She began to take out her cell phone from the year 2031, which could produce holographic images for anything.
Her shopping pals practically bum rushed her. Syd collapsed to the floor at the impact of them. Hands, of different colors, began to grab for the phone she held.
"Stop it," Maddie warned her. "Are you trying to blow our cover?"
"This woman is challenging me," Syd struggled to defend herself.
"She's a bitch, and we're just going to leave," Vida diffused this situation. Coldness soon surrounded her lower body. "Holy shit, my skirt is riding up!" She quickly got off the ground and began to smooth her bottom.
"Nice undies," Alyssa complimented about the pink and green boyshorts. "Xander must like those," she joked around.
Vida blushed a nice pink color.
Tanya hoisted herself up, and she held her hand out for Sydney. "You should know better," she cautioned her.
"You're right," the blonde with wavy hair frowned. "I don't have to prove myself to you, and we're just going to leave. I've never encountered, such a vagrant, vile woman in all my life. You woman are such a..."
"We're leaving," Alyssa helped to drag her out.
Maya was still looking around. She ignored her fellow Rangers. She must've been a little clueless. "Do you have this in a size-" Without notice, she was yanked out of the store.
Vida still held Maya's shirt as she dragged her out of there. "When we leave, you leave," she hissed.
"Opps," was all the former Yellow Lost Galaxy Ranger could say. "But still, it's not like they didn't have cute bras."
"Other places have pretty bras and workers that aren't so bitchy," Sydney added as she rolled her eyes. "What's wrong with how I'm dressed?"
Her companions whipped their heads to take a really good look. There was nothing wrong with her outfit, though the shoes were a little too futuristic. Other than that, they knew Sydney's taste was a little extravagant and definitely classy.
All women made mental notes to ask Z and Katie about the future's clothing. Were the shoes supposed to be like that? They weren't sure.
"There's nothing wrong with how you look," Maya honestly answered, even though her eyes were glued to the windows. "On Mirinoi, there's not much we could wear," she opened up about the customs of her community.
Tanya, Syd, V, and Alyssa's eyes bugged out of their sockets. They were definitely thinking way in the gutter.
"Oh, man, you must've been the talk of the village, if that was the case," Vida stupidly spoke up, and her sister smacked her arm. "What?!"
"You dimwit, she's speaking about the culture. There probably werne't that many options," Madison further clarified for her sister.
Maya nodded. "Right, so when I see all of the latest clothes, trends, styles, I get so overwhelmed. At least, I'm around women that like to shop and can show me what either fits my body or what's 'in'," she loved coming to these reunions. She did live on Earth, but she was still adjusting.
"Should we get something to eat? I'm starving," Sydney chirped as her stomach growled heavily.
The women looked at her weirdly. They had noticed the blonde with wavy hair had been eating quite a bit more than the last reunion. Usually, she wouldn't go back for seconds, but she would now and even get a third plate. Not to mention, the way she had defended herself earlier was unusual. Sydney was the type walk away rather than fight headstrong.
"We ate before we got here. That was like two hours ago," Tanya reminded her as they made their detour towards the food court.
"Yeah, but I didn't eat much," Syd informed her and everyone else. Her eyes illuminated with light as she looked at all of the possibilities. She headed towards the cinnamon rolls.
Tanya, Alyssa, Maya Maddie, and V began to make eye contact. They shrugged their shoulders and headed to get something to eat. They knew there was still time to get an outfit for tonight, but they weren't sure what the dinner plans were yet. They decided to get something light.
Once they were all seated at a table, Sydney quickly ravished through her food. Nothing was safe. She eagerly munched.
"Is Syd a fat girl at heart," the former Pink Mystic Ranger wondered out loud.
"No, but someone needs to stick their foot in their mouth," Alyssa jibbed while she motioned for her to cut it out.
The chiming tune to a cell phone resounded. All of the women each took out their cell phone.
Sydney took out her flashy cell phone. Her husband was calling her. The holographic picture displayed was Sky in his old, red SPD uniform. There was something about how he looked in red that made her become weak in the knees. Besides, in Sydney's opinion, she adamantly believed every female ranger has fantasized about being with a Red.
Sydney screamed in excitement. She eagerly pressed send. "Hello," she greeted around a mouth full of food. She obnoxiously chomped down.
"Syd," Schuyler 'Sky' Collins-Tate questioned, since she hated to eat around him, therefore eating on the phone was even more taboo.
"Hey, babish," she incoherently spoke.
The other female rangers began to giggle at her. Syd sounded ridiculous and looked even more ridiculous. She was still picking at her food despite being on the phone.
Sky wanted to know what was going on with her. "Did you hit your head again," he queried about the other times she's taken the ship. She wasn't exactly the most graceful character in the world.
"No," she swallowed. "I'm just starving that's all. I miss you."
"I miss you too," he smiled through the phone. "Actually, I love you so much."
Syd blushed, and it was similar to the time the others had found her and Sky caught in a heated lip lock session. "Aw, thanks," she mindlessly mumbled. Her eyes were firmly planted on Maya's Subway submarine. "Are you gonna eat all of that," she questioned her.
Maya almost choked on her soda. "It's only a six inch sub, yes, I do plan on eating all of it," she replied and curiously looked at everyone else.
Tanya picked up her phone and made a phone call. "Is there any way your husband can look up if there's a monster causing people to eat a lot," she requested.
"You're joking, right," the caller hoped so.
"Well, if you were here, you'd wonder what was going on with Syd as well," the music producer stated.
"Oh, it's Sydney," she asked, as she scanned her brain. "Alright, I thought I was the only one to notice something wrong with her. Let me get a hold of him, and then I'll call you back."
"Bye," Tanya pressed 'end' on her phone.
Sydney was still on the phone with her husband. "So, what's going on over here," she was mostly interested in the food the other's were eating rather than her husband's phone call. That might've sounded heartless, but her thoughts have been centered around burgers, hot dogs, fried rice, and cheesecake.
"Just the usual, but I do have something to tell you," he pointedly replied with a smile.
"Can you get me the Strawberry Dream smoothie," Sydney asked Alyssa, while holding out the money. She seemed to forget her husband was on the phone.
"Um, okay," the mother to twins and a son agreed. "Maya, join me," she hoped.
"Of course," the former Yellow Galaxy nodded, and she got up. She walked a few feet but headed back to the table. "I'll take this." She protectively grabbed her sandwich.
The two sisters snickered at the move.
"Syd," Sky called for her and cleared his throat. All he heard was her molars working fast. "Syd," he repeated. She inattentiely looked elsewhere. This fumed the commander of the Space Patrol Delta Base. He wondered what his wife was so enraptured with. "Sydney Amanda Drew-Tate," he screamed through the phone with anger laced in his voice.
"Ooo, someone's whole name was called out," Vida snorted.
Tanya swayed her head from side to side. "Vida, don't you have to call Xander," she sarcastically wondered. She partly winced; maybe it was too soon to joke around about something like that.
Vida glared at Tanya, but it was playful nonetheless.
Glad that there wasn't any hard feelings, the former Yellow Zeo and Turbo Ranger laughed at her. "Love you too, mamas."
"Yeah, yeah, but you're right," she became vastly serious, "I should call him," the former hater of Pink had been feeling antsy all morning. Maybe, she's been picking on Sydney to pass time, for some comical relief. She didn't want to think about the consequences of what she had done with another person and behind his back. Xander was the holder of her heart, and she hoped there was still a possibility of them reconciling.
Alyssa and Maya reported back to the table, which caused Sydney's eyes to brightly widen once again.
"Thanks guys," she happily acknowledged.
"Sydney," Sky impatiently uttered her name once more.
"Babe," Syd inquired if he was still on the phone. "Why haven't you been talking? Like, I know you aren't one for conversations, but that doesn't mean you can't, especially for your wife, open up."
Sky heavily inhaled and exhaled to calm down. "Sweetie, babe," he started nicely, "... the magazine that you were featured in; well, it's on the racks. I've purchased 10 of them."
"Oh my gosh! Really?!"
The other female rangers nosily listened in on the conversation.
"Yes, you are on the cover of the, uh, ahem," the Commander attempted to decipher the words. "V-V-V-Vog-he."
"Babe, it's Vogue," she cackled at him.
"We're gonna continue shopping," Maddie pointed to the rest of the girls. "Syd, just meet up with us when you're done," she whispered.
Sydney nodded, as she watched the rest of the girls leave. She continued talking to her husband about her magazine appearance. A few months before the reunion, the lovely blonde was featured in a prominent fashion editorial spread. There was something about the model turned wedding planner that was still the talk in the industry that some found so hard to break into. For Sydney Tate, nee Drew, it was quite the opposite. As a child from wealthy scientist parents, her life should've led her to Harvard, Yale, or M.I.T.
For her, her life was very unconventional.
(Flashback)
It was maybe three months prior to the reunion. I was asked by the editor of 'Vogue'. She wanted to know if I was willing to be featured in the magazine. First of all, hell yes, like who wouldn't want to be in the most fashionable magazine in the world? Even in the year 2031, this was the epitome of style. Second, I may not have been a designer, but I used to model. This would allow me to go back to my roots. Third, the clothing was a perk. I couldn't imagine not passing the opportunity to try on the latest modes.
After I arrived to the warehouse, I was immediately sent to makeup. It was nice to be waited on hand and foot. My hair was straightened, which I hardly did to my hair The team managed to make it unique and interesting. The makeup was gorgeous as well—very nice pink hues with a dramatic black lip. So totally the opposite of what I would wear in public. Next, the team of stylists pieced together several outfits. Red and pink; blue and pink, green and pink; yellow and pink; and of course, pink and pink went together perfectly.
Sigh, the outfits were very much to die for.
In the future, I'm the number one wedding planner. Everyone would like me to plan out their extravagant nuptials. My career has spanned four years, and I've done about 100 plus. That would be about, um, let me see, seven a month. Wait, that doesn't sound right. That would be about four a month. No, no, no, sorry, my brain must not be working properly; or, my 'blondeness' might be taking effect.
Anyways, that's not important.
So, there I was in the most gorgeous to die for outfits. My back was concaved this way and that way. Then my eyes went from narrow to wide. The sapphires I possessed probably went to the left and the right. Of course, I had to change up my lips too. Finally, full body shots as opposed to the beauty shots. Memories filled my brain as I continued. It almost made me want to go back to my previous profession.
I went to sit down with the interviewer. In her family, entertainment must be the right profession. Kaylani Park sat across from me. She has the most alluring features by the way. Ugh, I'm so jealous of how she looks. Her parents must be proud to raise a daughter that has model good looks and brains. The lovely woman smiled at me, and I returned one as well.
Q. Good afternoon, Mrs. Tate, or shall I call you by your maiden name?
(I laughed at her.) Either or, but if my husband's reading this, then I shall say Collins-Tate. (My eyes instantly lit up just thinking about him.)
Q. You used to be in the modeling industry. It's well known you modeled from the age of four until 15 and made sporadic appearances here and there, why not continue with that?
Modeling will always be apart of me. I've been told, since I was little that I had the face for modeling. I guess it's the blonde hair, blue eyes kind of stereotype. My mom brought me to an agency when I was little, and my interest grew from there. By 15, I was doing so much already, and I gave up modeling. My time was consumed with something else. I had to think too. I've modeled for plenty of magazines and walked on plenty of runways, but it's not my passion.
Q. What is your passion?
Being a wedding planner of course!
Q. How did that come about?
Well, it happened by chance. You see, my best friend was getting married. She didn't want the typical wedding, so I offered to plan hers. We didn't have a lot of time, but I did the planning, and in a month I coordinated everything. Everything came together so perfectly. One of the guests happened to know someone, and then BOOM! A business sprouted, and soon, I was planning the hottest weddings and featured in magazines for it. It's the greatest! Not to mention, the acquaintances and associates I've met have become like family.
Q. Do you ever think you'll return to modeling or doing anything else in your life?
Honestly, I'm content with this. Helping couples have their perfect wedding, talking to caterers, going to the different locations for weddings; I simply love all of it. (I thought about it some more though.) I've done plenty of things in my life, to be honest. I used to be a singer; I've sang at plenty of games, and of course I'm a wife, but there's one thing I would like to be.
Q. And what's that?
I want to be a mother. It's always been my dream to have a little girl or boy running around in my front yard. It just hasn't happened for me yet. (I frowned just thinking about it. It's not like Sky and I haven't tried. I supposed it was due to our jobs. The stress of not spending so much time with him, us arguing about it, my hormones weren't exactly where they should be.)
(I knew the questions to come. It was no secret of my other occupation. One that had consumed my life for two years.)
Q. Are you ready to talk about your past?
(I nodded.) I already know where you are headed with this.
(She smiled, after all, it ran in her family too.) Q. One of the rules was to keep your identity a secret. However, times have changed—considering you were apart of an academy that was specially geared to train individuals to become Power Rangers. Why did you join Space Patrol Delta?
(The memories flooded back to me, and I hated to relive them. For the sake of this interview, and I guess it was time for me to open up about what occurred. Girls wanted to be like me, and that may sound conceited, but I led a life others would surely be jealous of. It was their jealousy that probably caused them to bully me.) I tried to live a normal life, and I thought I could. Although, I guess I couldn't ignore the fact that I had a special power like changing my hands or body into the molecular structure of any object I touched. When I was 14, I was bullied a lot.
Q. Was it because of your power?
(I sadly smiled.) Maybe yes; maybe no. I didn't want to know. (I continued and explained my choice for choosing the path to Ranger hood.) The girls would constantly taunt, harass, pester me, and do anything that would make my life a living h-e-double hockey sticks. (I heavily sighed.) I would come home crying, and I would ask my mother, 'why me'? I thought it was because I wasn't beautiful enough in their eyes. Like, I was a model, I made the varsity cheer squad, and I came from money. Everything was literally handed down to me o a silver platter, and I think that's what the girls hated. There was a time I contemplated suicide. It had gotten that bad. One day, things went even more downhill. Five girls must've came after me. They tackled me to the ground. Two girls held me up while the ring leader, the most popular girl at school, punched me continuously. I should've lost the will to fight after the damage that was done my stomach. A couple of ribs were broken, and I had bruises all over my stomach.
(Kaylani appeared concerned. She handed me a tissue.) Q. What happened next?
(My eyes instantly welled.) I managed to shrug the girls off of me. There were gates, the metal bars were near me. My hands grazed them, and I literally had the 'fists of iron'. I fought back, and it may have been cruel to use what I had against weaker people, but I needed to. I ran as fast as I could despite the injuries I had. My parents took one look at me, and they knew it was time for me to get out of public school. They told me about the Space Patrol Delta Base, and they spoke of the lead scientist there, Dr. Kat Manx. They believed it was time for me to harness my power there. And that's what I did; it was probably the best decision I could've made.
Q. I'm so sorry that happened to you. (I smiled in gratitude.) Were you scared when you got there?
(I blotted the tissue against my tears, since I couldn't smear my makeup.) A little bit. First day jitters, I guess. I mean the head of the base was a dog, and Dr. Manx was a feline. Not only that, but there were others there that past rangers might view as monsters. I met the two most amazing guys though—Schuyler 'Sky' Collins-Tate, my now, hubby, and Bridge Carson. They were in the same boat as me. Sky could produce force fields while Bridge read auras.
Q. Tell me about a typical day.
Well, obviously we'd wake up. I had my own room, and it was more like a princess room. I made sure of it. I still had to hold on to my girly life. (I giggled softly.) I did my hair, makeup, and even put on sun block. To others, that might not seem important. For me, it was; it's a part of my identity. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so I made sure to eat healthy. Then, we went straight to training. The physical stuff was intense. I had worked out muscles I didn't even know I had. My body curved to the left, right, up, down, and then I had to practice martial arts. Boy, it was a trip. After that, I went to special training, like surveillance and somewhat like spy work. That was a unique experience. Doggie also helped me to further my craft. Then, we had lunch time, and it was back to the physical stuff. We did get mental breaks like Yoga or meditation, then dinner, and it was finally back to sleep. At night, the bed always sounded heavenly.
Q. Sounds like you were very disciplined. Was there a time you ever thought about quitting?
Just like the very first Pink Ranger, of course I was about to quit since my hair would get frizzy. (We both cackled at that reminder.) Actually, when I chipped my nail that was like putting the nail in the coffin when it came to training.
Q. Are you serious?
Nope, not at all. (I playfully smirked. One of the assistants handed me a drink, and I happily took it. I gave my thanks and went back to the question.) I did think about it though. Sky and Bridge had been in the academy longer than I had. I wasn't surprised they didn't find these training sessions more grueling or harder than me. But, I would get tired a lot, and I felt like I wasn't going to live up to anyone's expectation. I mean, those girls were probably right. I was just a bobble head blonde, and I was worthless. I packed up my bags several times. Modeling was way easier than the academy stuff.
Q. What made you stop then? It's obvious you went to the B-Squad, then got promoted to the A-Squad.
(The happier memories became apparent.) The first time, it was because of Bridge. I used to have crush on the eccentric man. There was something about his quirky attitude that got to me. He would always tell me some encouraging words, and I couldn't tell him no. Alas, I knew things between us wouldn't work out. He's definitely my best guy friend, even to this day. The second time, it was Dr. Manx to the rescue. She's a definite sweetheart, and I always found there to be some kind of sadness in her. She reminded me there were other obstacles to overcome. Becoming a ranger was a duty, and I was working my way up the rank. She knew I had the drive, the focus, and the heart. She would hate to see me quit. Besides, in her opinion, my unrequited love would make a big turn around unlike hers, although, I never got what she meant. The third time, Sky helped me realize I shouldn't give up no matter how hard the 'battle' could get. He even made the comment I was the heart of the team like all the other Pinks, and when there wasn't a Pink, the Yellows. After talking with Sky, I knew he was right. He helped me to train and build my strength. I guess he would always come to my rescue.
Q. And that's how you fell in love with him?
No, that came later—like way later.
(She continued with the questions, and I continued with the answers. It was fun being interviewed; I'm sure she enjoyed finding out about my past as well. It wasn't like she didn't have access to the whole history of the Power Rangers though. I'm sure her mother will elaborate on that.)
Q. Is the Original Pink your role-model?
Well, I've always loved the color Pink, and she is definitely my favorite. Most of the originals are to be honest. Oh, no, if my mother in law reads this and figures out I didn't think about her either. I don't even want to think about that. Yes, Original Pink, Yellow, second Yellow, second Pink, and even the Yellow Turbo/Zeo, and of course Time Force Pink. (I wiped off my brow in the nick of time.)
Q. How has your time as a ranger changed you?
(Honestly, everything about me changed.) I grew up a spoiled brat; I admit it. My parents hardly told me 'no', and I guess it was because I was their only child—their bright light, their pride and joy, their little princess. I know what happened before I came to the academy should've changed me, but it didn't. I still held onto my pampered princess ways. It wasn't until I met Jack Landors, and my absolute best friend, Elizabeth 'Z' Delgado. Okay, totally, Z had the coolest power. But, it bothered me when Capt. Cruger decided to have the two of them join. Well, Sky hated it more than me, but anyways, that's not the point. It's not about him; it's more about me. (I triumphantly smiled while Kaylani nodded with a little laugh added.) So, Z and I shared a room. I hated it, since she was way too 'manly', and she tended to be more sloppier than me. We butted heads a few times, plus I had to be a little wary of her. I wasn't sure if she was intending to kick my butt, or if she had the wits to steal my men, or clothing to give to the poor. I guess that's harsh of me to say. Anyways, Z and I had a heart to heart talk one night. She made me see where she came from. Her life wasn't exactly the easiest, and when I got to know her my compassionate side came out. Same with Jack. He seriously irked me. He used to act like he was all high and mighty just because he was the leader. We butted heads a few times, but I realized something about Jack. He didn't have a birthday, and he let me know about his past. So, now, we celebrate ours together. It's little things like that; that's showed me how much I've changed. Before, I wouldn't give two cents or give a second thought about their needs. Ohhh! I can't forget R.I.C either. That little dog has helped not only me, but the others in one way or another. Though I found him to be a pain and so, so, very annoying. He was there when I needed saving. Thank you, Robotic Interactive Canine.
Q. How would you feel now if someone called you conceited, selfish, or a 'blonde that's all about herself'?
I would be a little hurt, since I know I've came a long way. The opinions of others aren't important. It's what I think about myself. I'm more giving than I used to be. Not to mention a little more open-minded. I'm proud of how far I've come.
Q. What's one of the funniest things to happen at the academy—ranger related or not?
(There were a lot of memories to think about. Suddenly, the right one happened to pop into my head.) It would probably have to be the time when we found out Z got pregnant and Bridge was recruited to be in the 'Once a Ranger, Always a Ranger' mission. (I giggled just thinking about it.) It happened on the same day. Bridge was eating his buttery toast, and Sky and I were arguing about the wet dreams he used to have. (Kaylani, at that moment, became interested.) I don't even know if I'm allowed to say this, but I'm going with it. Any who, I found out Sky's fascination, which was more like a fetish, with a certain technical adviser, and it was no secret Bridge had a big crush on her too. So there I was, scolding both men like there was no tomorrow. Bridge's snark filled comments didn't go unnoticed either. Of course, Sky was still serious about his work, and he thought that would stop me from talking. I couldn't let that happen, so the next thing I did, I launched myself and I was literally glued to his back. My poor husband didn't see that coming, so he was grunting and trying to shake me off. We must've looked ridiculous. Bridge was on the ground laughing and rolling around. He wasn't even upset that his buttery toast was kicked to the ground.
Q. Oh, wow. (She laughed too.) What happened when Z came in?
So, Z happened to show up. She looked a little fatter than usual by the way. I was still wishing for my husband to admit about his dreams, and then Z yelled she was pregnant. Everything became pin-drop quiet, and I looked up at her with curiousness. My hair was completely out of place, frizzy, and I could see split ends coming through. Jack happened to stop by the day, and he gazed at the debacle in front of him. He didn't want to know what was happening.
Q. Why was Jack there?
Even though he wasn't a ranger anymore, he still got to visit and hang out with us. I know you didn't ask about this, but the Sentinal Knight made an appearance. He requested that a Red SPD Ranger come to help in the past. So, Jack would've gone on the mission, since personal matters came up for Bridge and Sky had to oversee the whole entire base. Bridge figured he could handle both and ended up traveling to the past.
Q. How did everyone feel about Z's confession?
I instantly climbed down Sky's back and congratulated Z. After all, I was gonna be the God-mother. Oh, and don't get me started on the fight with Dr. Kat Manx and I. Maybe I should have Z tell you the story. Poor Dr. Manx, she thought she was going to be the God-mother. (I shook my head automatically. Dr. Manx had other things to take care of, like her pregnancy that she didn't even know she had.)
Q. So, I'm assuming all of you are still close?
Closer than ever. Our little indescrpinsies (I know I said that wrong. Don't judge me!) were a thing of the past. I love all of my teammates. Maybe one a little more than the others.
Q. I see that look. When did you and Sky realize it was love?
When Sky became the Red Ranger of SPD, there was a big mission he had to go on. He traveled to Onyx, and while there, he ended up getting severely hurt. And when I say hurt, it wasn't a teency, itty, bitty scratch; I'm talking about his protective suit was nearly sliced to shreds. That left him open to getting hurt more. The bad guys really did a number on him. Bridge did a kamikaze mission as well and rescued Sky. Z became hysterical since she didn't know our two male rangers left to Onyx without us as backup. (Just thinking about how battered and lifeless Sky had looked, I knew the tears entered. Sky and I flirted around, and I knew I was the only one to balance the 'play-by-the-book' kind of guy. He was the last person I talked to about leaving the academy; I knew there was something special about him.) When they came home, as safely as they could have, I was numb with shock. Dr. Manx, Cruger, Bridge, and Z tried to pull me away from Sky. I couldn't stay away though. He was the strongest guy I knew, and then this happened to him. I became angry. I felt hatred towards Cruger for sending him there. I even blamed Kat Manx for making defective suits. I was an emotional wreck. It wasn't until Z helped me to understand something, and this was a big something. I wasn't upset with Capt. Cruger or Dr. Manx. Honestly, I was angry with myself. Sky could've died without knowing my true feelings. I realized I was definitely feeling those butterfly swirling, heart floating, feelings running rampant kind of emotions. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE SCHUYLER 'SKY' COLLINS-TATE! A week into his coma, I entered the medical bay. I softly held his hand while I admitted the truth to him. I kissed his lips, and the rest was magic. (I contently grinned with some tears.) He pinned me against his chest, and his heartbeat became stronger and stronger. He admitted he loved me too.
Q. Aw, so he was like the 'Sleeping Handsome'?
Yeah, I guess you can say that.
Q. Did you ever blame your parents for this life? Not everyone would like to be a Power Ranger or possess powers like you did, so have you ever wondered what it would've been like if your parents weren't a part of the SPD Pioneers?
(That was a thought-provoking question, if I ever heard one. It kinda made my head hurt too. Still, I thought about the question.) I love my parents with all of my heart. They are crazy smart, which is weird considering I don't have the technical "smart genes". (I was always a little jealous to not have their genes, but I guess it had to happen. My bumble blonde ways are cute anyways.) My parents saved me when I needed to be saved, and with their findings, they shaped what the Power Rangers: Space Patrol Delta needed to be. So what, I got the 'iron fists' as a side effect; that didn't bother me. I'm thankful for everything they've done for me. Including being apart of the SPD Pioneers. I don't blame them for what's occurred with the girls slandering my name, almost giving up at the academy, nor what's happened with Sky in Onyx. (I'm thinking about what's happened from start to now). If anything, they made all the right decisions. I'm proud of them.
Q. Tell me one thing that others may not know about the famous Sydney Amanda Drew Collins-Tate. Wow, that's a mouthful.
(I laughed. It makes me unique I guess.) The one thing that others may not know about me is that I'm a professional fencer. When I was younger, I entered a ton of competitions and won. There's something about wearing that mask, protective covering, and shuffling my feet rather quickly. It's also great for keeping my figure in shape.
Q. Are you content with your life?
Very much so. I love my life, and what it has become. I'm a wife, have a wonderful profession, and I can say that I've almost done it all. I probably wouldn't wish the darkest moments of my childhood on my worst enemy, but it's helped me to become who I am today. Life shouldn't be easy, but when life hands you a bunch of lemons, it's time to make lemonade!
Q. This will probably be the last question of this interview. I had a great time talking with you; it's been a pleasure. Being from the future, is it hard not to interfere or change the outcome of any situation from the past?
There are pros and cons to trying to change the effect of any cause. There's times when I thought, hm, maybe I can prevent Kimberly Hart from sending that letter, or wait, maybe I can prevent Sky from getting seriously hurt that time, or maybe I could've prevente deaths from occurring. At that same time, I wouldn't. Everything that does happen, should happen. It's made relationships stronger, and it's changed people's views. Sky's father was able to change his destiny, which was great, I'm internally grateful for what he's done. For those reasons, it's best not to interfere and let things run their course.
(I smiled at the end of my interview. I may have been 'legally blonde', but I think my Ranger time has helped me to become more mature. I'm not as self absorbed as I used to be. Also, I wouldn't cry if a nail got broken, I would move on.)
I got out of the chair and exited the studio.
Suddenly, I felt sick to my stomach.
(End Flashback)
Syd practically threw up in her mouth. She hunched her body over and covered her lips. She didn't feel right at all. She left her food, drink, and tray where they were. Making sure the phone was still connected to her ear, she rushed into the nearest bathroom. She quickly locked the stall and let the chunks blow.
Sky had been busy reading the article. "What!? You used to have a crush on Bridge?" He kept browsing through. "Damn skippy, my mom should be your role model!" His wife was amazing in his opinion and strong for opening up like she had. "Oh, and you spoke about my wet dreams? Now, everyone is gonna know about my fetish for cat women," he irritably complained."Syd! What the hell are you doing," he questioned as he heard the gagging and hacking sounds.
"Yeah," she groaned, and she sat, with her back, against the stall door. She realized she had eaten too much. "Babe, I don't feel so good."
Sky became overly concerned. "Sydney, you might need to come home right now. Let me know, I can get the time ship and send it to Silver Hills. Let me know," he stressed. "I love the reunions too, but if you're sick, it would probably be best to get the services here than there." He knew her molecular structure was vastly different than the humans in 2011.
She shook her head even though he couldn't see her. "Sky, I'm fine. I think it's because I've been eating too much, the light years' difference, and I'm way too excited my article to be published," she mildly shrieked, though, he could indicate the falseness in her voice.
"I've been your husband for awhile now. There's not many things you can keep from me," he reminded her.
"Ugh, you're so lucky I love you," she frowned after realizing she couldn't keep things from him.
After Sky and Syd had confessed their feelings to one another, their love story was just beginning. They got to know each other, and they had formed a connection after two months of dating. He knew her inside and out, and he accepted her little quirks. There have been times when he allowed her to place the avocado mask on his face too. They might've been different from the beginning, but they accepted one another. That's all both of them could ask from each other. So for Sky to know his wife was in distress, and she was so far away, it hurt him to know he couldn't help.
"It's obvious I love you more, even though I don't know how that's possible," he figured. "Listen, where are you right now?" She was about to answer, but he mentally kicked himself. "Alright, who are you shopping with," he rephrased the question.
"Just some of the former Rangers," she answered weakly.
The door to the bathrooms opened. Syd made sure to stay quiet. She wasn't sure who was out there.
"Syd," it sounded like Tanya's voice.
"Here," the former Pink SPD Ranger answered. "Sky, I love you, and I'll make sure to let you know what's going on."
"Yes, I need to know about your status," he retorted, and then he smiled again. "I love you too, Mrs. Collins-Tate."
Sydney smiled and turned her phone off. She got up, and she flushed the toilet. She exited the bathroom.
Tanya held up a water bottle for her friend. She observed the beautiful blonde and nodded. "Come on, let's get you a pregnancy test."
"Huh, what, no way, there's no way I can be pregnant," Syd denied her accusation cold-heartedly. "After all the drinking I've been doing, yeah right." She chugged down the water while rolling her eyes. She became mad just thinking about it.
"Sydney Amanda Drew Collins-Tate, I'm not giving this as an option. This is a demand. It's obvious a monster hasn't been released in Las Vegas. You've been irritable, your eating habits have changed, and your breasts are getting bigger," Tanya sternly admonished the wedding planner.
"Hey... wait, they have," Sydney turned to the left and right. "Oh my gosh, my breasts look fabulous!"
Tanya rolled her eyes. "Alright, come on, let's get out of here." She held open the door for the young woman.
Sydney agreed it was best.
The two of them began to walk, so they could find the other girls. As they were headed towards the nearest department store, Sydney asked her a question.
"How's Kaylani doing by the way?"
With a bright smile, Tanya replied. "Great, did you know that she's thinking about heading into journalism in high school?"
Sydney knowingly laughed. "Why am I not surprised?"
They went to find the other girls, as they spoke about Kaylani more.
A/N: Next Chapter, Katie Walker, Yellow Time Force Ranger