(Author's Notes: Hey everyone here's Chapter 37 & I hope you all continue to keep the reviews coming. I apologize for the delay in updates due to personal family matters these past few weeks. Recently, my family is coping with the loss of my grandmother and it had been a difficult time for our family, but we are getting by and healing. Anyways this will be a fairly lengthy chapter so be warned but it will make up for the lack of updates.)
Summary: The Rangers engage in another confrontation with the Emissary to save the Garrison's sanctum, but get some unexpected help.
Chapter 37: Consequences Be Damned- Part III
June 25th, 2009
8:45 am
Reefside, CA
In the last 24 hours, sleep was the last thing on everyone's minds, especially for Hayley and the Dino Rangers. It happened once again where Amelia's abilities got the best of the little girl and it only scared them to know she was right on the mark. From their last recent update from Tommy and the others at the Garrison Sanctum, everything Amelia drew the previous night came true, much to Tommy's amusement, but shock as well.
There was speculation that Tommy was holding back more than he reported in regards to his daughter. Unfortunately, they were kept in the dark about Amelia's true nature and role in this entire battle. The seven year old wasn't aware how powerful and how much of a huge target she was, nor unaware of the vital role she'll be involved in the final confrontation up ahead. However, they gave Tommy their word to protect the little girl that meant the world to their former teacher and mentor. In turn, they had a soft spot for Amelia recalling her earlier days when she was diapers and inadvertently offered free babysitting services to her parents to give the couple at least one date night a week.
Despite the not so normal upbringing in the early days of Amelia's life, Hayley and the Dino Thunder Rangers were allowed to share in the moments of the happier days of the Oliver family. It was a surprise that Tommy and Kimberly allowed them to be part of the small milestones the young couple marveled in as their daughter kept growing. It made sense why Tommy suddenly left one day five years ago after the carnage left in the wake of Mesogog's final demise. Despite Tommy being back home for the last nine months to the place he abruptly abandoned, in the end they knew there was no way for the legendary Ranger to ignore the call of duty.
"Hayley, are you okay?" Amelia asked as they were all sitting in the kitchen having breakfast. "Is my dad okay? Did you hear from him and everybody else?"
"I heard from your dad and he says he's alright and he'll be home soon." Hayley said looking at the little girl eating her waffles.
"How are the waffles squirt? Do you like them?" Trent asked attempting to change the subject.
"They're good and I don't have homemade blueberry waffles much. When daddy and I were living on our boat house in Boston Thursdays was what we called waffle Thursday breakfast." Amelia replied as she took another bite. "But every once in awhile he would sometimes take me out to breakfast or on weekends we eat during something called brunch. The last time I ate waffles with lots of people was when daddy's friends came over for breakfast on our boat house in Boston before we came home to Reefside."
"It was pretty rare back in the day seeing Dr. Oliver cook," Kira replied. "Usually it was always Mrs. Oliver or Kimberly usually doing all the cooking."
"Yeah Kim was usually on Tommy's case for his lack of cooking skills, even after she got pregnant with Amelia." Hayley said smiling at the little girl. "Did you know that your dad only learned how to cook after your mom was pregnant with you? Literally, you dad's definition of cooking was something that was made prepackaged that you reheat to eat and literally your mom got your dad's case for that."
"Did mommy have to teach daddy how to cook?" Amelia asked curiously. "What did daddy use to cook for mommy for dinner?"
"Anything that involved instant ramen soup, microwave dinners, pizzas, takeout until one year for his birthday your mom got your dad a bunch of cookbooks and demanded that at least three times a week they make homemade lunches and dinner." Hayley explained. "After they got married, your mom wanted to make sure that they at least ate some healthy and delicious homemade meals and not be exposed to too much processed and prepackaged meals. Also, it was hinting that in the long run when they had kids, meaning you for that matter."
"Who knew Dr. O lacked culinary skills back in the day?" Connor slightly teased.
"Guess there are some things the legendary Tommy Oliver wasn't good at back then," Ethan chuckled.
"So that's why you, Uncle Jason, Auntie Kat and everybody else always use to tell me to give you guys a call if daddy ever tried cooking anything or baking." Amelia replied smiling. "But the cookies he made for my bake sale on Valentine's Day were very delicious. Plus, the smoke detector didn't go off and there was no fire coming out of the oven like Uncle Jason tried warning me. My dad said it was my mom that taught him how to make shortbread cookies. Is that true Hayley?"
"Yeah I was there the first time Tommy attempted to bake some cookies for a fundraiser that was being held at Bridgewater one year. It was the school where your mom did her graduate studies to become a teacher." Hayley explained. "That was an experience being the first person to test your father's culinary experiment and your mommy was on your dad making sure he followed the recipe to the detail. First sample batch he made turned out good except he may have added a bit too much sugar and the batch was way too sugary for my tastebuds." Amelia let out a little chuckle hearing Hayley's story as the other Dino Thunder Rangers joined in.
Kira looked over to see that Amelia stopped eating and stared at her plate. "Hey peanut, is everything alright?"
"I like hearing stories about my mommy and daddy," Amelia said deep in thought. "But that tingling feeling inside of me tells me that mommy is drifting farther into the empty place again. Sooner or later she won't remember daddy because the angry fire bird wants to hurt them again. Do you know why I like hearing stories about mommy and daddy? It's because they're like the falcon and crane in the stories daddy used to tell me. I wish I can do something to help my dad...and my mom because the tingling feeling inside of me feels that something bad is going to happen."
"Hey we know you do Amy," Hayley reassured the little girl. "Listen, more than anything we all wish the same thing for your dad and the other veteran Power Rangers. More than ever we also wish for the same for your mom. You have to believe in them Amelia and your dad and his friends, and the rest of the Power Rangers out there like these guys here, they're as tough as nails. You need to believe and hope with all your heart because that is what gives your dad his strength and power...the hope of his little defender believing in him."
Amelia stared at everyone at the table as they gave the little girl reassuring smiles. For a child, she was very observant and possessed a maturity not seen by other peers her age. It was mainly because of her parents' history and legacy as Power Rangers and how "the life" had this impact on them and everyone around them. She had her parents' compassion and fighting spirit alongside the hero complexity in her. More than ever, they were in the same vote as Amelia wishing somehow they could aid the veterans in their hour of need.
12:00 p.m
Monument Valley
Tommy couldn't tune out the sounds of grueling morning training sessions; battle preparation plans or security and recon reports. It was the downside of his special ability of enhanced senses, hearing too much for his liking. He had to compliment Quinn's training using the Garrison's methodology to home his fighting skills and ability. He wouldn't be the expert martial artist he was today if it wasn't for that one eventful trip to Algoma Summer Camp nineteen years ago, but it also had its drawbacks.
"This is last thing that should be your focus, considering everything you've been through. I don't really try to pry into asking people who served in the armed forces about their experiences being on the frontlines. It's out of respect because I can't imagine the things you witness before your eyes, Justin." Tommy replied using his senses to indicate Justin's presence in the room.
"How did you know it was me?" Justin asked amused but then realized the obvious of how their leader knew. "Sorry, I forgot you got those Daredevil like senses working in your favor, minus the red devil suit and the whole blind lawyer bit. Don't worry about me Tommy I'm fine although I do worry about our fearless leader here."
"You know me, I'm able to handle whatever crap gets thrown my way," Tommy replied fiddling with his arrowhead necklace he's wearing. "I always thought the powers that be created this little trinket to keep me in check, quell the battle of wits between light and shadow within me. Maybe...this thing was for my own self-control, just like the bracelet they created for Amelia."
"Do you think being here is hindering your sense of rationality? I mean, the way you talk about Quinn and the Garrison..." Justin said reluctantly. "...I mean why do you still trust him after everything they have done? Look, if I'm overstepping the line prying into your personal history and stuff..."
"No, no it's all good. I get ask that question on a weekly basis over the years. They ask me what the hell makes me seek help from the guy who is the catalyst of drawing me into the mess of things?" Tommy said letting out a sarcastic laugh. "I hear it over and over again that Quinn brings nothing but trouble whenever he rolls into town. I kept telling myself his campfire stories about ancient secret warring factions were nothing but tall tales. It was delusional tales for people who wanted to throw their lives away for nothing and for no reason. Guess he literally flipped the script whenever someone tells you "seeing is believing" and yeah, pretty much got kicked in the ass for that."
"But you didn't come here for Quinn's benefit or that of the Garrisons. You're here because of Amelia and to protect your daughter's future. We came here because the Emissary is looking to set off a ticking time bomb that could spell trouble for the city our adventures began as Power Rangers." Justin replied. "Yeah, we all got baggage to deal with but we're trying to keep ourselves in check in order to survive what to expect next because it is something you taught us."
"You guys still hold me with high prestige and valor despite me having days where my head isn't much in the game?" Tommy replied.
"We're a team and a family...always and forever as you and our pink crane will always say." Justin slightly smiled but then noticed that Tommy's expression shifted as if he was listening to something important. There was a look of concern and tension on Tommy's face. "Tommy, what's going on? Is something the matter?"
It wasn't the general sounds of everything in the Garrison sanctum he overheard, but he was also able to track the movements and sounds of the Emissary forces on route to the sanctum. As the two headed back to the main hall of the hideout to meet up with Quinn and the remaining members of the Garrison, the other Rangers were already there getting the latest update as he abruptly interrupted Quinn's latest report.
"...You can forget about the three day delay because they're not going to wait!" Tommy warned the group sternly. "I tracked their movements and current positions. By nightfall the Emissary is coming full force to dismantle and wipe out the Garrison sanctum. Your toxic contamination of the ground surrounding the area is not going to stop them because they figured out your little ploy. They're coming in full force, the Emissary...Kimberly included."
"How long do we have?" Quinn suddenly asked as he saw that Tommy focused on listening in the far distance.
"By nightfall...they're going to breach zero ground once their little mystical concoction kicks in they brewed up." Tommy reported as he continued to listen. His face continued to shift based on what he was hearing nearly over hundreds of yards away from their current location. "Wait, there's something else going on."
"Dude, how does he do that?" Rocky asked staring in awe. "How can he hear nearly hundreds of yards away what the Emissary is planning?"
"It's those Daredevil superhuman like senses. I swear it's like he has super sonar and sensitivity times one hundred." Aisha commented.
"Tommy has always told me that his senses work at a heightened rate beyond normal capacity." Jason stated. "It's what made his precision and accuracy sharp and agile and being here in the Garrison's sanctum you can tell just how well they trained him."
"If they're going to be here by nightfall then we must prepare the brigades for battle." Jade warned. "We are drastically outnumbered and if the sanctum flame is extinguished, then so is the power of the Garrison. Quinn, we swore to defend it from the very last brick to the last member who sworn fealty to this place breathing."
"I know and the odds are stacked against us." Quinn stated addressing the group. "Every single person trained by the Garrison has believed in the cornerstones that held this group in place for over four thousand years. We have fought, bled, lived, breathed and sacrificed for a worthy and greater cause. We have survived different variations and chapters of the war between the Garrison and the Emissary where the outcome varies everytime. We been known to have the odds stacked against us, but it doesn't mean we don't submit or yield without a fight."
"You people are dead serious aren't you? You're going to face them head on again aren't you?" Kat asked. "Knowing too well who they're bringing to the fight?"
"It's what this organization has done for eons and whether you agree with our methods or not, this is our soul mission." Roxas stated. "Blood will be spilled, but that is the consequences in the spoils of war. Sometimes the ideologies that you follow to the letter since the beginning need to adapt and change in times of desperation."
"They're right...whether we question their methods of not." Tommy suddenly replied, much to the surprise of his friends. "We maybe offended by what the Garrison does in the name of the greater good and I personally hold much dismay for them over the years. However, in times of desperation we need to adapt and change our tactics and ideologies. Wiping out the remaining supporters of the Garrison is nothing to them or the destruction of the leaders. The one thing they want to take out is that sanctum flame which is a threat to them because it's the consolidation of the Garrison's dominion and power. The Emissary is looking is extinguish it permanently, but not today."
"Tommy, you know what that means right?" Billy asked. "We're going to be expecting the Emissary in full force by nightfall along with Kimberly. Are you willing to battle her again? She's not the same person we knew five years ago and knowing full well the consequences and the impact of going up against her."
"Remember Tommy, no matter what state you see me in, it's still part of the same coin and you'll love me for it regardless. You'll always take the good, the bad and everything in between because it's who you are. Take the pain, the heartache, the emotional turmoil, everything this battle and this world will throw at you and do what you always do: endure it all." He was reminded of Kimberly's affirmation, the proof that she was still in there despite the circumstances they were in. This was a time of desperation where both factions intended to ensure their survival, trying to tip this eternal conflict on either side.
Tommy blinked his eyes, trying to contain and keep his emotions in check. It was the unfortunate circumstance that they found themselves right in the middle of the conflict but pulled on opposite directions. It was as if somewhere deep in his very heart and soul he could sense the internal struggle raging inside his wayward pink crane. Deep down, he knew the Emissary will have her carry out their mission to destroy the Garrison's source of dominion and power.
"You're right and circumstances have change the last five years." Tommy grumbled. "Yeah, our first few confrontations with the Emissary were only a mere sample of the power and strength they possess. They won't hold any punches against us, but it doesn't mean we're going to be laying down. They maybe ancient, but it hasn't stopped us."
"Ancient or not it hasn't stopped us from the very beginning." Jason said. "So despite the odds stacked against us, we're going to take them head on."
"Yeah, let's see if we can put a few dents to the pillars of the Emissary." Trini said with a head nod.
"Damn right you are. It's time we start putting cracks into the foundation that is called the Emissary." Tommy added slightly smiling as he saw nothing but head nods and heard nothing but agreements. He thank them all but his eyes diverted to the corridor leading to the sanctum flame chamber. "We maybe outnumbered and members of the Garrison will probably not make it out alive. I know the Emissary will send their weapon to extinguish the flame, but I'm going to hold position and protect it by any means."
"Then you understand Tommy how vital it is to keep that sanctum flame burning right?" Quinn questioned as Tommy nodded his head. "The Scarlet Sovereign has already has her sights set on the target. Putting yourself in her line of fire will surely give her a battle that will drive her beyond her limits. She has already exterminated three Garrison sanctums and killed three founding members of this organization. You may think your head is in the game right now but when it comes to hearts of the matter, espeicially with her of all people..."
"I know what I have to do and regardless of who she is...it's still part of the same coin." Tommy stated firmly. "The Emissary are very egotistical and they boast on their mysticism and mythical allure. We have seen them do things out of the ordinary and taken everything they learned from their heralds to make a name for themselves. They made a name to show their adversaries their ultimate weapon, the Scarlet Sovereign. So, if anyone is going to deal with the Emissary's weapon it's going to be me. Do you understand? My head is in the game so don't doubt that and I know she wants a challenge equal on the same caliber level that she's at."
"Do you think it's wise to challenge her, man?" Zack questioned. "The last time we went up against Kim she got the best of us without ease. Whatever mystical forces they used to bring back Kim from the dead, it's pretty clear it messed her up big time. That is something we're not expecting nor prepared for."
"Look, you guys may have doubts and the Kimberly we knew back then is not the same person the Emissary resurrected for their own gain." Tommy replied. "You are right, she's not in the clearest of minds right now. They splintered and shattered the very core and being that makes our pink crane. Whatever mystical or mysterious force is inside the body of Kimberly Hart-Oliver, it's fighting for dominance to balance two sides of the same coin. I know my wife, my pink princess and my Winged Lady of the Skies and my heart tells me I can still reach her someway, somehow. If it's only for a faction of a second, I'll take it because it lets me know there's still a beating heart within."
"It's that optimistic faith and hope that makes you a compelling man Tommy Oliver." Jade suddenly spoke up. "Same thing was spoken true about Kimberly Hart years ago as well. Two soulmates with complex and shifting fates and destiny, but yet the balance and fate of the universe rest upon their shoulders. We've seen this happen to those who bare the mantle and throne as the heir apparent of the Ninjetti. It is your destiny and fate to reclaim the dominion you were destined to rule over, only if you can withstand the tides of change on the horizon."
"The part where my daughter somehow is the centerpiece in this whole tide of change." Tommy muttered deep in thought. "So come nightfall, they'll be here in full force trying to rip this sanctum to pieces. Amelia, she's somehow linked to whatever is brewing underneath Angel Grove isn't she?"
"If we survive the onslaught that will await us at nightfall, then we made sure we did our damn job protecting what we kept hidden." Roxas replied. "The key of the future because it is what the Emissary needs to unleash another Modus Operandi. However, this one is different, something uncanny from the others that have befallen."
"Are you saying whatever magic mojo is padlocked underneath Angel Grove, it's like the power has a mind of its own?" Justin asked. "Things are going to get more complicated aren't they?"
"Things have never been easy for us and we've been known to deal with complications along the way." Tommy muttered as he listened to every available member of the Garrison prepare for battle. "We're in for a battle come nightfall. It's about time we make them believe in our tale, our stories."
1:00 p.m
Reefside, CA
Trekking into Reefside Forest was the last thing on the Dino Thunder Rangers' minds, especially when the group of four had their uncertainties. Hayley stayed back at Tommy's house with Amelia as she put an emergency distress call with the hope someone will respond. The four former students of Tommy's found themselves near the waterfall in the forest and carrying with them the various pictures that Amelia drew.
Walking along the hiking trails and hearing the sounds of the waterfall in the forest, the former Dino Thunder Rangers surveyed the area. The last time they were at this location it was during Thanksgiving where the group got a sample of the power manifesting inside of Amelia. The experience left them confused and still seeking answers from the veteran Rangers about the mysterious forces that took control of Amelia that day.
"Are you sure...this is the right spot?" Connor asked looking around.
"Look, I don't have any mystical, ancient ninja like abilities or powers like Dr. O and the rest of the veterans." Kira said. "But for some reason, this spot here, especially this waterfall there's something mysterious about it. What does that scanner tell you Ethan?"
"Well, given this is one of Dr. O's old devices that detects abnormal anomalies and auras, this spot is picking up a small trace." Ethan reported looking at the scanner that Hayley gave them to investigate the forest. It was what led them back to the waterfall in the forest.
"And ironically it was at the same spot that seven months ago Amelia was mysteriously possessed by this mysterious force talking to Dr. O?" Trent asked.
"Pretty much but behind the beauty and splendor of this waterfall, it holds a great mystery of interest." Kira stated staring at it. "Whatever the mystery was it brought Dr. O and the original Rangers back to investigate this spot a few months afterwards. I don't know what secrets are buried deep in this spot, but for some reason they're protecting it with their very lives like it's something of significance, especially to Dr. O, Amelia...and Mrs. Oliver."
"Exactly how do we help them when we lost our powers after the final battle with Mesogog and the Emissary?" Connor asked.
"Connor has a point, sweetie what's the plan?" Trent asked his girlfriend. "The last time we went up against the Emissary they were doing some messed up stuff we haven't ever seen. This was the same people who was draining kids in a secret room in our high school for months; human trafficking; ritual resurrections; and a bunch of illegal crimes that is highly controversial to make local headlines."
"Yeah and I still can't shake that mental image out of my mind when we found all those kids five years ago in the maintenance room." Ethan sighed. "They literally looked like the walking dead in those cages. Do you think...these powers that be or the Garrison themselves will show up?"
"That Quinn guy has a talent for showing up at the worst time possible, why not them?" Kira asked looking at those pictures. "Five years ago we came upon something beyond our control and we thought it was Mesogog orchestrating things. However, he was only a puppet and the true puppet masters were pulling the strings behind the scenes. If we thought what happened five years ago was something to forget, well we're dead wrong. We're all caught in this war between the Garrison and the Emissary and right in the middle of it is Dr. O, his daughter and his friends. Powers or not, we owe it to Dr. O to keep Amelia safe because for him she is what matters."
"I can see that the falcon and crane chose such remarkable individuals to wield the power." A voice boomed startling the group. The Dino Thunder Rangers saw a stout man, all dressed in white, complete with a staff/wand in his right hand. The four former Dino Thunder Rangers heard the stories from their mentors. Standing in front of them was the man who was instrumental at the origins of the Power Rangers many years ago.
"You're him aren't you? Are you Zordon?" Connor muttered in shock. "You're the one who gave Dr. O and Mrs. Oliver their powers years ago alongside the original veterans?"
"It seems your mentors have spoken highly of me to you Rangers and yes that is who I am." Zordon said with a slight smile. "We heard the stories about your heroics five years ago with Mesogog. I like to extend my gratitude and thanks for your actions on defending Reefside from the forces that threatened your city."
"Um, thank you sir," Ethan said, for once he couldn't think of anything else to say. "We just...did what we had to do."
"Although your battle with Mesogog have taken you to limits beyond your imagination and engage in actions never imagined by the likes of others before you, as a team you held firm to your mission and fealty to one another." Zordon continued.
"Yeah but we paid a heavy price to put Mesogog down once and for all and now the aftermath is happening." Trent stated. "That fight took us to our limits, and it nearly broke Dr. O five years ago after what happened to Kimberly. We defeated Mesogog five years ago, but we failed to change Kimberly's future and now she's back resided to a fate much worst than death."
"Part of that is true, but I'm afraid the plight of the crane will be tremulous and will push the falcon even further than he imagined." Zordon warned with a sigh. "It is already starting and has been building for years. The final chapter of the war between the Emissary and the Garrison is building up to the climax. You four have seen things beyond your imagination and dealt with enemies unlike anything the Power Rangers have battled."
"So everything we heard about them, the Emissary is truth or myth?" Kira asked holding up Amelia's pictures. "These drawings, is this part of allure that makes the Emissary mystical, but a formidable adversary? The last time they came to town we found ourselves caught in some messed up shit that is beyond Ranger standards."
"It's more than about believing in a truth or myth. It's about stopping a cycle that has continued on and on for eons in different variations across the universe. A chapter of this neverending war that has accumulated for over four thousand years on Earth." Zordon said, knowing with deep understanding what the four young individuals were looking to find. "The climax of this war will come to a head in the heart of Angel Grove, but this particular "Modus Operandi" the Ninjetti Power Rangers are attempt to halt is what you can call an uncanny enigma."
"Yeah we know and unfortunately right now our former mentor and his friends are about to get invaded come nightfall in some lonesome Garrison sanctum." Trent said.
"Then it means the changing tide on the horizon is upon us." Zordon said. "However, I sense you didn't venture out here to chat or get confirmation about what you already have seen and know. Like Tommy and the rest of the original Rangers, this war too has also pulled their closet allies into the fray. You're all willing to step back into the frontlines of war to finish a fight that was started years ago? So tell me, Dino Thunder Rangers...what is it you intend to seek by coming out here?"
Zordon could see in the eyes of the four young individuals once mentored by the falcon and crane there was a will and fighting spirit within. They saw first hand what the puppeteer handwork the Emissary has done behind the scenes pulling the strings on Mesogog and his minions. However, despite the protest from Tommy that this was his fight, they couldn't sit back and watch their former mentor and his friends be bested by the conflict between the Emissary and Garrison.
"Dr. O warned us he was going to finish what he started five years ago with the Emissary. This war nearly destroyed a good man who had his entire world shattered right before his eyes only for it to be flipped upside down again." Ethan said sternly. "They're crossing a line and a little girl's life is suddenly being woven into this conflict and that's where we're putting our foot down. So Zordon, if what Dr. O and the other Rangers say is true about you...then you know we're not walking away from a fight."
"Ethan is right about that." Connor stepped forward and then pulled out his Dino Gem from his pocket, much to the amusement of Zordon. "Dr. O once said he's a Power Ranger till the very end, and so are we. So...we need a way to get back into this fight and to finish off what we began in Reefside five years ago."
5:30 p.m
Monument Valley
"Everything is ready and our forces are waiting the orders to proceed Dalia!" Malo reported to Dalia as the Emissary was preparing to mount their assault on the Garrison Sanctum.
The sun shone still in the cloudless sky but dusk was only a few hours away and nightfall would soon fall upon the lone desert region. Their forces were armed and ready for another confrontation with the Garrison and the Emissary was looking to demoralize their opposition greatly. They raveled at their slight advantage over the greatest rival, but over the years learned despite periods of one sided victories and conflicts, the Garrison were known for their resilience and counter insurgence tactics.
"Good, did you distribute the antidote to our forces?" Dalia asked Ashei and Salazar. "There's enough for three dosages for each agent of the Emissary. Unfortunately, given the time constraint and the compound component seventy-two hours max is out of the question. Ashei's calculations on the dosage confirms each injection can buy our agents eight hours before they are required to administer another dosage of the antidote."
"Twenty-four maximum?!" Thea yelled in objection. "You all obviously clearly miscalculated our timeline to storm the Garrison Sanctum. This will end in disaster I am warning you. Either we're bringing back half of our contingency back to headquarters in body bags, or worst...it's either one of us that gets compromised in this fool's mission. I am imploring you, as your sister reconsider the plan. There are too many loopholes and miscalculations in this mission."
"Do you lack the belief that we will succeed in this plan, Thea?" Balor questioned sneering at the woman. "We have worked too long and too hard to locate this pathetic obstacle that stands in our way. Time is a luxury we do not have deary and we are running on borrowed time. Do you not understand the magnitude of our situation?"
"I understand loud and clear, Balor." Thea replied angrily. "But at least I'm the rational one of this group here who thinks we should reconsider while we have time..."
"This is nonsense! Dal, tell your pesky bratty little sister of yours that she should know her place among this group!" Pan added and then glared at Thea. "We already have taken out half of the Garrison and we can surely end them tonight!"
"Besides, we're talking strength in numbers little girl," Salazar smirked in a mocking tone.
"You have to trust in our plan, little sister and we have faced adversity throughout the ages," Dalia said in a calming manner addressing Thea. "Our forces can deal with what our opposition throws at us. We live and die for the Emissary, we serve the Emissary...and life itself. That has been the mantra of this organization for many years and we're this close to obtaining the substance we require to maintain our dominion and foothold. All we need to do is tie up some loose ends..."
"Your sister is right, Thea." Ashei said in support of the Emissary leader. "Our forces have been preparing and we have taken the necessary precautions to survive the battle."
"Mount the forces and prepare to move out." Dalia order the other pillars of the Emissary as they nodded in recognition. She then turned her attention to her younger sister who still had a look of uncertainty. Thea glanced at the Scarlet Sovereign who quietly continued to sharpen her twin swords and stared at them with a blank expression. She felt on edge given the shifting aura she was feeling coming from the Emissary's weapon. However, she couldn't convey that to the rest of the pillars, and especially Dalia and she picked up on her younger sister's hesitation. "You still have your doubts do you, little sister?"
"I will not question the decisions of the Emissary and especially your orders, dear sister." Thea said reluctantly. "I must respect that we are running on borrowed time, and you are running on borrowed time. I comply to do whatever is necessary to ensure the survival of the leader of the Emissary and my only family left. However, I do request that I am treated as an equal pillar of this organization and held to the same standards as the others."
"Do I sense some distension between you and the other pillars of the Emissary? Is it the reason why you objected to their collective decisions these last few days? We are sisters Thea and we do not conceal secrets from one another. Tell me, what is the cause of your discomfort and confide in me your worries."
"There is something brewing within the void. An untamed and unyielding force calling out the heir apparent destined to oppose us. They call to the lordship and ladyship destined to balance both the light and shadows within them. The instruments of the true source of power of balance. Many doors are being opened and yet that unyielding force that beckons in the distances continues to call. It holds no bound or mastery...but it's contained within a soul who doesn't understand the true power brewing within,for this source is the key of the future. The visions are changing like a rising tide on the horizon and the force in the far distance, it keeps beckoning."
"Should we be worried about this mysterious force beckoning?" Dalia asked warily looking at the Scarlet Sovereign. "It calls to...them doesn't it?"
"The force beckons to them all whether it be a fighting spirit, an untamed fire raging within or an unyielding spirit that is untrained, but powerful it will call." Thea warned looking at her sister. "It will not be ignored big sister just as the future shifts on the horizon like a roaring tidal wave. As much as time is limited on our part, what price are we gambling to ensure our dominion and power as the Emissary against our adversaries?"
8:00 p.m
The Garrison Sanctum
Night settled upon the vast open desert landscape, but Tommy was clearly focused on the commotion going on in the Garrison sanctum. There have been massive patrol groups out keeping tabs on the Emissary's current position as they strategically mapped out their line of defense. Training and stockpiling of armory and supplies was the main focus throughout the day knowing once the last glimpses of daylight disappeared.
Tommy and the rest of the original veterans were swept by the Garrison's preparation and tactics as if this wasn't anything new to them. However, it made them wonder if after four thousand years of internal conflict between the two rival factions, how would the final chapter be written. Unfortunately, the Garrison was outnumbered and with nearly the remaining sanctum leaders and contingencies all pooled together into one last stronghold, their fate was now tied to Amelia's.
No matter how many times Tommy tried to deny the mysticism and lore of the war between the Garrison and the Emissary, he eventually came to terms how this internal conflict shaped his fate and destiny. There was always a bigger picture to look at and deep down, whatever happens this very night will signal the drastic winds of change upon the horizon.
For the last five years he attempted to runaway from the frontlines, renounce the life of a Power Ranger for the sake of his little defender. Now, he was back on the frontlines again and at their hour of need, they needed the White Falcon, the one true Winged Lord of the Skies and heir apparent of the Bloodline of Power to aid them in their hour of need. Tommy wasn't doing this for the sole purpose for Quinn or the Garrison's benefit despite their common ground interest. All he needed was to endure what the night will bring upon them.
"They're almost approaching the ground zero barrier of this sanctum." Tommy said as he and the others looked at Quinn. "The Emissary won't hold back will they?"
"Kid, you just answered that question for yourself there." Quinn slightly smirked. "We been going toe to toe with these bastards for over four thousand years. They'll come at you with full persistence and velocity. Like the Emissary, the Garrison will fight and match the same persistence and velocity they do."
"We faced them a few times before, what will make this encounter different?" Jason asked.
"Because in order for them to initiate their Modus Operandi, they need to destroy the one obstacle they believe is hindering their mission." Tommy said looking at the sanctum flame. "They want to burn down their opposition, but we'll take them head on and let's see...if we can knock down the foundations that hold up the Emissary. They are bringing the fight to us tonight so we'll give them one."
"You are ready, Power Rangers." Quinn said. "As the new generation of the Ninjetti Order, the Garrison will fight and uphold the fealty and oath this organization has held for eons and many lifetimes. It is the foundations and cornerstone of why the Garrison exist: to preserve and protect the legacy and integrity of the Great Power and the Ninjetti, the heir apparent of the Bloodline of Power. We fight on the frontlines and serve for a higher calling and greater purpose."
Everyone looked at one another and simply nodded in agreement. It was now about counting down the seconds until the enemy approached their territory, but then Tommy's senses got the best of him. Instead, he heard a different type of commotion topside as he alerted the others to head up to the main entrance of the sanctum.
They arrived out by the front entrance of the the Garrison sanctum as Roxas ordered their agents to open the gate. To the original veterans' surprise and everyone else in the Garrison, they found themselves greeted by the unexpected of some much needed help. Tommy took a step in front of his friends and was startled by the surprising arrival of his former team, the Dino Thunder Rangers, but they weren't alone.
The Dino Thunder Rangers were accompanied by Andros and the Space Rangers, the Lightspeed Rescue team, Wes, Taylor, Eric and their Silver Guardian squad. It was then from their talks with Tommy's former students, they learned that they sought out Zordon in Reefside Forest for some much needed guidance. With Hayley's assistance, she managed to send out an emergency distress call hoping someone will aid the original veterans and the Garrison in their standoff.
Zordon, with the assistance of Dulcea restored the Space and Lightspeed Rangers' powers along with Taylor's Wild Force powers and Wes and Eric's Time Force powers. In addition, with the Dino Thunder Rangers' powers also restored, they presented to Cam and the rest of the Ninja Storm team their old power morphers fully restored. It was the call of duty and the determination to be back on the frontlines that made them answer the call to aid the Ninjetti Rangers. Over the years, they heard the stories of the mystical, myth and legend of the Emissary and somewhere down the line they all got a sample of what this malicious organization was capable of.
It gave them a fighting chance to survive the onslaught of what was descending upon them. Hearing the confirmation from their closet allies that they were jumping into the fray with them, it reignited the fighting spirit for the Garrison. Furthermore, it gave Tommy the will and hope to ensure his daughter's future.
"We couldn't let you guys go in at this alone," Connor stated. "We made a promise to protect a little seven year old girl who means a lot to us Dr. O. Five years ago we took that risk and got a taste first hand what the Emissary is capable of."
"And also we had some much needed assistance from the Garrison's big boss, also known as your old mentor Zordon." Kira replied smiling.
"Amelia, is my little girl...is she alright?" Tommy asked addressing his daughter. "Guys, please tell me that she is nowhere in sight from this god forsaken place."
"Your daughter is still back in Reefside like you wanted and in protective custody." Andros confirmed addressing his ally. "Your friend Hayley is keeping her safe and we called in a favor from Mr. Hartford in San Angeles. Your little girl has at least one Power Ranger team in the form of the Operation Overdrive team protecting your place."
"Also my dad and some of our top special forces units at Lightspeed are in Reefside keeping the city and your daughter safe." Dana added. "Hayley covered all the basis needed and we're here with you guys front and center."
"Well at least you can say that the Garrison's odds have went up," Jason reassured grinning and looking at his best friend and brother. "So fearless leader, what's next?"
"I say let's suit up for battle guys." Tommy said smiling. "Everyone get to your positions and let's give a welcome they won't forget!"
Front Entrance
The moment reinforcements arrived to aid the original Rangers and the Garrison to mount their defenses, all hell broke loose in a matter of minutes. The alarms blared throughout the sanctum because of the impending arrival of the Emissary forces amassing outside their premise. The topside of the legendary sanctum was turning into a all out battleground with the combined efforts of the various Power Ranger teams and the Garrison contingency holding ground.
Since the incident with Mesogog five years ago in Reefside, the various Power Ranger teams heard the whispers and rumors of the accounts that went down. They heard the stories about two mysterious ancient factions whose longtime war intertwined with the battle between Mesogog and the Dino Thunder Rangers. The events that happened five years ago raised a lot of red flags to the rest of the Power Ranger teams who found themselves involved with the Garrison and Emissary conflict.
However, watching the forces of the Emissary and Garrison clash there was something different about these two rival groups which made the lore and myth about them very real. It was true both factions fought on opposite sides in the neverending battle of good and evil. They were relentless, fought with such velocity and the line of moral credo was obviously non-existent as these two factions held no hesitation to kill one another.
As the battle continued on, there was already casualty and bloodshed being carried out on both sides. The Power Rangers along with the Garrison and the rest of their allies were doing everything possible to keep the fight outside and contained from entering the main structure.
What startled the Rangers about the whole entire battle, age and experience was a foreign concept and the drive to fight was the main focus. The rules of warfare were drastically changing by the second and seeing both factions going at it, they were seeing fighters whether they were preteens, youths, teenagers, young adults, old, young, women, men, children it didn't matter. As long as they had the skills and experience to fight, they were fighting for who they swore fealty to.
"Come on you got to keep your head in the game man." Jason said to Carter as he used his power blaster to knock down a group of Emissary agents. To the Red Lightspeed Ranger's surprise, one of the Emissary agents Jason used his blaster on looked like a teenager no more than fifteen years old. "These guys are trying to press us back."
"Are you insane? One of those ninja clad dudes you shot with a blaster was a teenager!" Carter replied startled by their foe.
"People, there's no exceptions on who the enemy is." Roxas stated after he swiftly dispatched another Emissary agent with a stroke of his sword. It still bothered them from their standards and morals as Power Rangers how easily the Garrison is capable of keeping their adversaries down, permanently. It bothered Jason he was forced to use his power blaster on someone that was an armed teenager, but it was his defensive instincts that drove him to do that.
The battle continued on outside as the Power Rangers and the Garrison were doing their best to handle the Emissary army. They were doing everything they can to keep the Emissary army contained outside, but their enemies continued to put more pressure on their offensive strategy. However, things started to slowly go sour when their defenses were started to become breached.
"The south sector of the perimeter has been breached!" one of the Garrison agents shouted. "We got a breach in our defenses!"
"Silver Guardians, mount counter measures on the south sector and contain the enemies!" Wes ordered the Silver Guardians operatives.
"Yeah, that ain't going to help because the entire south sector is now being overrun by the Emissary!" Adam warned.
"We need a new tactic!" Kat shouted as she used her power blaster to knock out a few more Emissary operatives. "We're getting swarmed!"
Realizing that their forces were now being swarmed after a breach in the south perimeter, the Power Rangers continued to battle while trying to mount a retreat command issued by the Garrison leaders. They fought their way to retrieve any surviving Garrison brigades ordering them to fall back inside the sanctum.
However, the Emissary continued to advanced and march on towards the main entrance of the Garrison Sanctum. They already took out the first gated defensive line outside the perimeter, but Quinn wasn't done yet. The original Power Rangers saw Quinn heading towards a secret control compartment buried within the grand stairwell entrance up to the building. Shouting at everyone to fall back into the grand hall of the sanctum, Quinn shouted commands to Billy and Justin on how to activate the second defensive systems of the sanctum in hopes of buying some more time.
The Sanctum Flame Chamber
Tommy could hear the commotion from the topside levels of the Garrison sanctum and it was becoming a futile effort to keep the Emissary forces at bay. They already broke through the first defensive line systems and the combined efforts of the Garrison and the Power Rangers pressed on contain the battle topside level. However, he could feel the pillars of the Emissary making their way descending down inside the sanctum right into the chamber.
On the contrary, he heard the faint cry of Shalimar, Kimberly's crane echo in his head warning him of Kimberly's presence. Unfortunately, the familiar exhaled breathing sound he committed to memory alerted him that he wasn't alone as the the scarlet cloaked figure known as the Scarlet Sovereign made her presence known. Tommy looked at his pink princess through his helmet and felt his heart being ripped from him. He tried to find some sort of recollection in the eyes of the woman who was his entire world, but the eyes glancing at him only conveyed a lack of humanity or emotionless expression.
The woman in front him looked like she was battle ready and calculatedly studied the adversary in front of her. However, for Tommy the woman known as the Scarlet Sovereign was still two sides of the same coin that existed within Kimberly Hart-Oliver. However, the two long lost lovers were on opposite sides of the spectrum of good and evil as the Scarlet Sovereign eyed the Garrison Sanctum Flame, her main mission target.
He felt a shift in Kimberly's aura once again and this time her eyes conveyed an expression of focus and it was what snapped Tommy back to reality. Part of him expected that the Emissary will send their weapon the Scarlet Sovereign to destroy the Garrison's source of power and dominion. It was a ploy in order to further cripple their opposition, but the Scarlet Sovereign didn't anticipate she run into the man who has now become a mysterious enigma and presence these last couple of months.
"You don't have to do this because this is not you." Tommy pleaded.
"I am the Scarlet Sovereign and I am the weapon of the Emissary." She said emotionless eyeing Tommy intensely. "The untamed fire burns within me to serve life itself."
"You're more than that and you don't belong to them, Kimberly." Tommy said, attempting to hold his ground as he said her name, causing a moment of hesitation. But instead, she pulls a sword out of her sheath only for it to separate into a pair of twin swords as she advances towards Tommy. "Kimberly?! It's who you are, Kimberly!"
"You've been a mysterious enigma to me since our last confrontation and yet, for some reason you match me as an equal." She said scoffing. "That name you speak, it's as if that name is throwing me off from completing my mission. And yet, you're my opposition who stands in the ways of the Emissary's plans and for that I must destroy you!"
Tommy took a deep breath and reluctantly, flicked his wrist to summon Saba. The familiar sword appeared in his hand and before he had time to even position himself, Kimberly was moving at an inhumanly quick speed with her swords, ready to strike.
He quickly dodged the first set of strikes and his quick reflexes and senses went on the defensive. Tommy saw that Kimberly was attempting to extinguish the sanctum flame and it was what made him go on the offensive strike, keeping her away from what she was tasked to destroy. However, it only fueled the strength and power within Kim.
Their swords collided as Tommy blocked a low swing from Kimberly. He was trying to stay on the defensive for fear of hurting his wife, but he was going to lose this battle if he continued that approach and he knew it.
He continued to block blow after blow until he found an opening to launch an offensive attack. He blocked an attack when she attempted to advance towards the sanctum flame and then without thinking about it, he kicked Kimberly in the stomach, sending her flying across the room.
She cried out in pain and slumped to the floor as Tommy winced at the sight of her struggle, but he didn't have time to worry about it. Soon enough, she was back on her feet and recovering her twin swords, she charged towards Tommy again forcing him back on the defensive.
Tommy flipped backwards as he dodged an attack and then ducked underneath another. He moved Saba swiftly at Kim's legs as she let out a high pitched scream. Tommy watched in shock and pain as blood began to drip from where he struck.
"You won't make me yield!" She muttered as she struck Tommy in the shoulder, throwing him backwards and causing sparks to fly from his shield.
"I know you won't but deep down you know I don't yield to anyone but my Winged Lady of the Skies, my soulmate." Tommy said as she looked at him. "This is not you!"
"What makes you think that?" she simply asked. "You have bested me at every turn and match me for every strike. Who am I to you?"
"Someone whose heart is still beating deep in the confines of the void." Somehow he managed to get himself into a sitting position and rolled out of the way of another attack. The Scarlet Sovereign was caught off guard when he swept his leg at her feet as she fell and he launched himself back onto his feet. "Someone whose waiting for her white knight to save her from a fate worst than death."
"Oh there are worst fates than death. Do you want me to demonstrate that to you?" She pushed herself back up and began to harness a powerful energy blast as everything Tommy was saying was triggering an uncanny surge of power within her.
The Grand Hall
Somehow, the Rangers had managed to get the rest of the Garrison forces to retreat inside. The minute Justin and Billy activated the sanctum's secondary defensive systems it bought them some time to keep the Emissary army outside of the sanctum.
The Garrison continued to mount counter offensive measures to drive the Emissary back despite the secondary barrier being up for the time being. Just when they thought they got a temporary relief of safety, they saw a Garrison agent stumble into the grand hall, bloodied, severely injured and holding what looked like a life threatening stab wound to his stomach before collapsing from the blood loss.
To the dismay of the remaining Garrison leaders and the Rangers, they learned from the dying agent that the breach in the south sector caused a massive complication. It was discovered that a small unit led by the pillars of the Emissary managed to used the exposure of the south sector breach to infiltrate the inside of the sanctum just before the secondary defensive systems were activated.
It became an unfortunate situation finding out that their plan to retreat back into the sanctum went sour and instead they had to contend with forces both inside and outside of their base of operations. The minute they came in contact with the pillars of the Emissary and their small forces inside, Jade quickly sealed off the remaining access points into the Grand Hall to prevent further casualty. However, that tactic left the contingency of the Garrison and the Power Rangers confined.
"These guys won't stop will they?" Tanya muttered watching some of the Garrison agents firing arrows outside towards the army outside. "We're sitting ducks here."
"It should buy us some time before the secondary defensive systems become compromised." Quinn said. "We'll defend this sanctum to the very last brick."
"The integrity of the secondary defensive systems will cease to exist if the Emissary continues to pound away at the barrier." Billy muttered as Roxas showed him the access system to the security systems from the grand hall. "Right now there is a ten percent integrity damage done to the secondary defenses."
"We're doing everything we can to keep the army outside away from the entrance." Eric reported as Wes commanded another round of shots fired. "Unfortunately, we're running low on ammo and that army outside is continuing to advance."
"Not to mentioned there is a small unit of the Emissary inside the sanctum along with its leaders." TJ added as they suddenly heard banging coming from the sealed entrances into the grand hall from the inside.
"Looks like we're completely boxed in aren't we?" Kira replied. "These people want to see the Garrison laying dead on the ground don't they?"
Jason looked around the grand hall trying to drown out the sounds of the Emissary army outside of the sanctum and the small unit on the inside attempting to breach the grand hall. Their resistance force was clearly trapped and he knew Tommy was outside beyond the doors of the hall fighting solo protecting the very core of the sanctum.
Within the last twenty four hours he made quick note to carefully study the exterior and interior of the Garrison sanctum. They must of had one contingency plan on top of another to ensure their survival should their plight to protect the structure became impossible. However, his thoughts was on his best friend wondering and hoping somehow in his battle he could reach the team's heart and soul.
"There has to be a way out of this room," Jason suddenly said. "Tommy is outside beyond those doors alone and on his own fighting to protect the source of power of your Garrison sanctum. We can't leave him out there by himself up against the pillars of the Emissary knowing that Kim is with them doing their dirty work."
"You're considering going outside there?" Dustin asked surprised. "Those bastards are trying to break into the grand hall both from the outside and from the inside."
"Maybe if we deal with the enemies inside the sanctum it maybe our chance to get this army outside the sanctum to retreat." Jason muttered as the banging continued.
"It's a calculated risk we got to take to get either one of these Emissary forces to retreat." Zack said agreeing with his longtime friend.
"Jason is right we can't leave Tommy alone out there," Kat replied as the Garrison fighters started barricading the entrances. "We know that the Garrison will fight and defend thise place with their lives. The temporary defenses can only buy little time, but the main threat right now inside this sanctum is the pillars of the Emissary."
"But those guys are ancient, malicious and powerful because of the immortality crap in them." Connor said. "We won't last one round with them in combat."
"We'll take the fight to the pillars to protect you guys," Jason said turning to Quinn. "Quinn, is there a way out of this room without them detecting us?"
The ten original veteran Rangers looked as Quinn walked towards a section of the floor as he whispered an incantation. Suddenly, part of the floor revealed what looked like a hidden trap door as he opened it to reveal a hidden secret passageway beneath the floor.
It surprised the other Power Ranger teams when the Garrison leaders explained that the hidden secret passageway in the grand hall connected to a network of secret passageways and tunnels that connected all throughout the sanctum. Part of them didn't want the original veterans to leave but they knew they were the only ones who can match up in combat against the Emissary leaders.
"The secret passageways throughout the sanctum are cloaked and protected by magic." Quinn explained to the Rangers. "The Emissary can't detect the passageways or access them which makes it easier for you Rangers to use these hidden passageways to your advantage. The wards and protection spells that have been cast upon this sanctum will work in favor to the Ninjetti so do not worry."
"Take this it will help you," Roxas said as he gave them what looked like a stone like crystal compass. "This crystal will reveal the exit points from the hidden secret passages and will only open and reveal itself when necessary. It will make it easy to navigate through the network of tunnels throughout the sanctum so you'll be safe."
"How will we know if we come across a secret hidden passageway?" Aisha asked.
"It will glow blue if you find an entry and it will glow red when you come across an exit." Jade added. "Also, besides acting as an impromptu compass it works as a key."
"Go, do what you have to do." Andros said as the rest of their allies nodded. "We'll continue to keep the army outside at bay."
"Alright but if things start looking bleak, get out by any means and make sure you keep everyone alive." Jason muttered as he looked at the other nine original Rangers and quickly made their way inside the hidden secret passageway. The trap door soon disappeared once the original veterans entered it.
The Sanctum Flame Chamber
Tommy managed to knock Kimberly back on the ground, but the power of the Scarlet Sovereign was relentless and refused to give up. For some reason, she was finding an adrenaline rush in all of this and she underestimated how far Tommy was willing to go. The more they engaged in their fight, the more Tommy was growing relentless as the battle progress ramping up the intensity and physicality of the fight.
As Kim made another attempt to extinguish the sanctum flame, she dove at him and as he flipped back to avoid another attack, his foot connected with her chin. Tommy landed on his feet and turned to see Kim sprawled out on the floor. He quickly ran over to Kim and pointed Saba at her as the sword released energy beams from its eyes, but he didn't anticipate the she deflect the attack.
Unfortunately, the energy from Saba's attack caused the room to temporary shake for a moment as the the blast threw both of them on opposite ends of the room. But there was no quitting in both of them as the dust cleared out and the couple stared at each other intensely showcasing the bruises, scrapes and cuts that riddled their faces and body. The expression on Kimberly's face changed as Tommy could tell by her eyes something was emerging, a glimpse of a familiar resemblance of what was once his wife.
They were breathing heavily after their last round as Kim inadvertently dropped her swords on the ground continuing to stare down at Tommy. She had that look again of hesitation as if part of the old Kimberly was slowly reemerging, but part of Tommy remained on guard as he continued to grip Saba in his hand.
"You fight like someone who matches me in every capacity," she declared. "You are someone who doesn't yield and refuses to bow down in submission. You have matched me with precision and velocity. What is it about you that makes you this conundrum to me?"
Tommy stared at her through his helmet and for the first time in a long time it was as if something was trying to break through to make the pink crane whole. What was standing in front of him was a woman who was fragmented, disconnected and lost in the confines of her own existence. He could feel the presence of the falcon and crane working its power trying to call out to the shattered soul of his soulmate as a voice echoed in his head.
"We're the falcon and the crane: the one true Winged Lord and Lady of the Skies. We are unbent, unbowed and unbroken and we do yield to anyone but each other."
He reluctantly dropped Saba on the floor as he slowly removed his helmet, and tossed it aside. His emotions were getting the best of him as he watched Kim continue to engage in an internal struggle with the power coursing through her. It reminded him of their last encounter after he reluctantly had to relinquish her as another thought echoed in his head.
"A force that beckons far in the distance. It waits for a call to be answered, both the shadow and light, two sides of the same coin being pulled in."
"Who are you to me? Why does this unhinged compulsion inside of me cause me to hesitate?" she spat out. "Something stirs, an unknown force inside you and me."
"Feel it because it calls to you and me." Tommy spat back at her. "It's an unbound force that calls to two sides of the same coin of shadow and light."
"That same force beckons me again, what is it? Make it stop right now!" she begged as she let out an agonizing scream due to the unknown surge.
"Do you want to know who I am? Somewhere deep down locked away in the confined void of yourself, lies my pink princess, my soulmate and one true love." Tommy answered. "She is my entire world and she is my Beautiful Pink Crane, my lost Winged Lady of the Skies and ladyship. I am her white falcon, her one true Winged Lord of the Skies who will not stop until she is returned to her rightful place as the heir apparent of the Bloodline of Power. It won't stop until its call has been answered..."
"No, no, no! Do not test me for I am the Scarlet Sovereign, the weapon of the Emissary!" She yelled back as she looked at the sanctum flame. "That flame, it is what is causing this stirring from within. It must be disposed at all cost."
"Please Kim, you need to wake up! You need to remember me! This is not you!" Tommy pleaded. "Remember me Kimberly. This is not the end for us, it never will be!"
She continued to battle the power struggle inside of her as Tommy tried to anticipate the next move. He saw a reaction happening with the sanctum flame as the power of the Scarlet Sovereign starting coursing through her once again as she went to retrieve her double swords once again advancing towards Tommy.
"I will make the stirring inside of me stop at all cost." She muttered out as her eyes opened. "It is my mission, and I must fulfill it."
Quickly Tommy went to retrieve Saba as he dodged another one of Kimberly's strikes but he felt his necklace come off as he felt his Ninjetti powers emerging. She made her way towards the sanctum flame and attempted to use the powers of the Scarlet Sovereign to extinguish the flames once and for all from the cauldron.
Concentrating and focusing on his Ninjetti powers, Tommy dipped the blade of Saba into the flame as he manipulated the embers to surround his body. In one swift motion, he instantly disarmed Kimberly and fiercely grabbed a hold of her hand. Soon, she found herself surrounded by the power of sanctum flame along with Tommy.
"...Consequences be damned," Tommy muttered as he came into physical contact with Kimberly and looked at her with emotion and passion. "You may not remember me but no matter what I'll take all of it: the good, the bad and everything in between because I will not yield. I will not give up. No matter what Beautiful, I will always find you because I need you to keep fighting. You're still in there I know it...so consequences be damned. Remember our promise? If you can hear me...say it, Beautiful please!"
Suddenly, Kim started convulsing as her and Tommy continued to be surrounded by the sanctum flame. It created a barrier around the couple as the pillars of the Emissary made their way to the chamber to witness what was happening. They were in a heated confrontation with the original Power Rangers as they attempted to retrieve the Scarlet Sovereign, but the Rangers kept them at bay.
He wasn't sure what he was doing but for some reason he kept on manipulating the sanctum flame's power in order for it to serve his purpose. The couple was still encased in what looked like a flame like cocoon as Tommy continued to keep his hold on Kimberly. The longer he maintained physical contact, he started to realize her current state and condition she was in. She attempted to pull away, but break out but the unknown force beckoning them kept working until she muttered three words that struck the deepest core of Tommy's heart and soul.
"...Always and forever," She managed to squeak out as her eyes opened and looked directly at Tommy. "...It's a promise for all eternity."
The three words of that simple promise struck a cord inside of Tommy, but he felt an unhinged forces of both their powers of shadow and light emerging. It was becoming a test of will power and strength as Tommy felt the dormant green Dragon stirring being in the mere presence of the Scarlet Sovereign. They were contesting and mastering an array of power surges building within them.
It was like a ricochet domino effect as an uncanny power blast of energy was suddenly unleashed that caused a tidal wave of energy to be released. The impact of the blast caused the couple to suddenly separately in a matter of seconds but it blasted the pillars of the Emissary to suddenly be instantly teleported away.
To his utter shock and dismay, Tommy thought the sudden shockwave of the clash of their powers would have sent Kimberly flying across the room. Instead, to his disappointment, somehow whatever his powers did, once again it separated him once again from his beloved Winged Lady of the Skies. Soon, the fire and light had subsided as the only people left in the chamber was Tommy and the other ten Rangers who were trying to figure out what they witnessed.
"Tommy, bro are you..." Jason began trying to make sense of what occurred.
"I felt it whatever it is that is stirring, that unknown force that beckons me." Tommy answered as the others seemed to calm down a little. "Our promise, always and forever, she said it to me. Consequences be damned right? She tried destroying the sanctum flame, but then somehow I used it on her."
"You unleashed your power again didn't you?" Aisha said as she picked up Tommy's necklace from the ground and quietly handed it him.
"I can't explain it but it was as if I became unhinged but yet I channeled it." Tommy muttered as he looked and found that the sanctum flame was still in tact. He focused on using his enhanced hearing to pick up on the commotion happening topside. He breathed a sigh of relief to inform the others of the current status of the Garrison sanctum of Monument Valley. "I can hear the commotion from topside. The Garrison, they'll live to fight another day and the Emissary is in full retreat."
"What do you think happened Tommy?" Rocky asked curiously.
"I'm not too sure but whatever happened the moment Kim in contact with the sanctum flame, something awoke in her." Tommy said looking at the flame. "Somewhere locked deep in the confines of the void still lays the beating heartbeat of our pink crane, the Winged Lady of the Skies. I'm not giving up on her and if tonight proves that, it means we got a chance to get Kimberly back."
"What's the matter bro?" Jason asked. "What's on your mind?"
"They did something to her because I felt it. I'm not going to rest and I kept my word I am willing to do whatever it takes to protect my daughter's future and this is only just the beginning. One thing I know for sure, whatever unbound force is beckoning me, it calls to you too and I will keep on calling to it."
A few moments later, they heard an unknown groan from the other side of the chamber and went to investigate it. To the sudden surprise of the original Power Rangers, they found the source of where the groan came from. Moving some of the debris and rubble away, they glanced upon the face of Malo, one of the pillars of the Emissary unconscious on the floor.
"Oh shit, it's one of them isn't it? A pillar of the Emissary?" Adam asked startled. "Tommy, we should probably let Quinn and the others know."
"Yeah we should let them that somehow we got an enemy in our possession." Tommy said in a stern and cold manner. "I think it's time we get the long overdue answers we been waiting for. They have answers we want to know and this son of a bitch will give me what I need to know: what they did to Kimberly and secondly how this final chapter of this war is going to play out."