(Author's Notes: Hey everyone here's Chapter 41 & I hope you all continue to keep the reviews coming. The Rangers confront Tommy over a questionable action that will result in repercussions.)
Chapter 41: Wild and Free
July 15th, 2009
4:00 pm
Oliver Residence
Reefside, CA
The next two hours was nothing but a series of discussions and arguments over their next course of action downstairs in the lab. Of course, their topic of discussion turned out to be the unconscious houseguest laying on the gurney Tommy had discreetly kept the last few days. He was well prepared to defend his actions and his decisions to his friends over the fact he kept Kimberly's sudden appearance a secret from him.
What made the impromptu visit unsettling throughout the afternoon was the veterans' sudden need to take extreme precaution in regards to "heart of the team." Part of Tommy didn't blame his friends, Hayley or his former students for the suggestion of keeping their unpredictable guest in check. However, their definition of keeping Kimberly in check included restraints and straps to keep her tied down in her unconscious state if in case she had another episode.
As much as he wanted to help Kimberly out and despite the arguments going back and forth, he reluctantly gave in to his friends' requests for the sake of their safeties and protection. Tommy wasn't the only one hurting over seeing the dramatic change that their pink crane has undergone the last five years. Those close to her wondered if there was any resemblance of the woman they knew as Kimberly Hart-Oliver that remained.
Every once in awhile they would see her thrashing and convulsing through the restraints she was confined in. At other times, they hear the whimpering and moaning sounds coming from her like a feral, wild and frightened animal that underwent years of torture and agony. Tommy tried desperately to search through the tattered and damage bond he long held for his crane, but all he felt in the aura was nothing but gray and invalid. He even tried to appeal for Shalimar and Brennan's aid but their animal spirits needed time to recuperate from their bouts of keeping both Firebird and Dragon in check.
In the back of his mind Tommy knew time was limited and he could feel the Emissary's presence descending upon Reefside once they realize Kimberly's whereabouts. As long as she was bind to them by that Everlasting Spell, technically they still held her fate in their hands. Hence, it was once again the double-edged standard that became another obstacle for him. Right now, he simply awaited for one of his friends to say something after he explained to them his actions these last few days and the repercussions of Kimberly's current state.
Though he was upset with his former students over informing his friends of the situation, he admitted it had to be done. After all, Tommy was still on the road of redemption and atonement to make amends for the five years he put his friends through disappearing without a trace. More than ever, if they were going to endure this battle together, he needed his friends and allies by his side. In order for that that to happen, trust and honesty was essential.
"How's she doing?" Jason asked watching Tommy keep vigil on their unconscious guest.
"Well she's resting for now I guess, still hear minor whimpers and moans here and there." Tommy murmured. "Overall, she'll...well...she's alright I guess." He then turned to his friends who remained in the lab to lend their support. "Look guys, about Kim I was going to tell you and..."
"Tommy, you don't have to explain why or the reasons for it." Kat spoke up interrupting her friend. "It's a lot to process what we heard in the last two hours, but we'll deal with it together. You've been through an emotional rollercoaster these last few days we get it, both you and Amelia. We just want to know: are you alright?"
"I should be asking you guys the same thing," Tommy said slightly smiling. "I think for me it's becoming a daily routine to ride the emotional rollercoaster. However, becoming emotionally compromise I know it will have an unforeseen consequence if I can't keep my feelings in check. I know I have this tendency to worry my best friends."
"Hey it comes with the territory to look out for our Winged Lord of the Skies, our white falcon." Adam replied.
"Still, I know everything I told you in the last two hours is a lot to in. God only knows that things won't get any simpler down the road from here on out. Part of me knows that the Kimberly we're all hoping for to return to us is now a different person. Never in a million years did I imagine that this shadow, known as the Scarlet Sovereign, the Firebird that lived dormant inside of her is running rampant. She's fighting I can feel it and she still fights even if it tears her from the inside and out."
"So the question comes how long is she going to be under until she's up and kicking?" Trini asked.
"I'm not sure but my gut tells me time is limited again before the Emissary decide to pay Reefside a visit." Tommy said. "Every instinct is telling me to head into the forest and demand answers from the Garrison about the Everlasting Spell. There was a dramatic increase in her adrenaline and aura and there is a struggle for control. In the back of my mind, I know Quinn is either seeking answers from Zordon or Dulcea about it. However, I have this sickening feeling we're learning about the repercussions first hand without any guidance or reference. She's basically living on a half-life existence where she's not fully alive, but yet whatever happened to her over the years...I...I..."
"...We get the feeling, bro." Jason replied putting a hand on his best friend's shoulder. "You said you never wished for Kim to suffer a fate worst than death. What they did to her violates what she wanted to accomplish five years ago. We all dreamt about the hope that the powers that be would restore the heart of our team to us one day. Right now, that woman laying on that gurney there may resemblance my little sis, but it's a vessel that is far from the person we once knew her."
"But she is still in there I know it and I'll go through hell and back to find her again." Tommy replied firmly. "But then it comes down to a matter of where our next course of action takes us. If there is one thing I wish for was the power to change Kim's fate and that of my and Amelia's. The hand of fate and destiny is very fickle and for Kim, her's is hanging by a mere thread. Whatever happens and the choices and actions we take from here on out, it's going to bind us all together."
"Well we already got dragged into a four thousand year old ancient feud between two warring factions." Rocky replied sarcastically. "Being Ninjetti, apparently we are what these two organizations have been duking it out for eons."
"Plus throw in all the mystical, mythical and ancient prophecies and legends into the mix of things will definitely make this blood feud continuing on and on." Billy said.
"Tell me something I haven't heard many times," Tommy said letting out a sarcastic chuckle. "Yet, we're here again on the frontlines in a fight to protect a legacy and lineage of the most powerful force in the universe, The Great Power. That unknown force that beckons the Bloodline of Power flows through my seven year old daughter. It's not only my pink crane I'm fighting for, but also my little defender."
"And we promise you Tommy we're with you all the way," Jason reassured as the others nodded. "No mythical stories, mystical lore or whatever gets toss our way will tell us what to do. It most certainly won't dictate the fate of Tommy Oliver. Never, ever forget who you are. The two most important people in your life need you."
"You're right the hell with limitations and restrictions because two sides of the coin of shadow and light will not hold me down." Tommy replied. "I am Tommy Oliver and I am the white falcon, the one true Winged Lord of the Skies. Like my mate, the pink crane and the Winged Lady of the Skies, we are eternal soulmates: always and forever. We are the Bloodline of Power, the heir apparent of the last dynasty of the Ninjetti. We are unbowed, unbent and unbroken and we do not yield to anyone but each other."
They noticed Tommy's demeanour as he continued to stare at his unconscious wife. No words could describe what was going on inside the mind of their fearless leader, and his emotions and expressions merely conveyed all his inner thoughts. The confrontations and discussions that took place hours prior was now water under the bridge feeling empathy towards Tommy and his plight against an uphill fleet many would tell him is impossible.
"I know they're coming for you Beautiful and each day you're slipping further and further away." Tommy whispered to her. "It's hard to stomach all of this and it tears me apart from the inside out for what they did to you, to us and our family. I am taking everything this god damn war brings: the good, the bad and everything in between and I will endure it all, but I will not quit. I will not submit and I will not yield and neither will you. The shadow and light within us: we will find that balance together. I swear to it, my pink crane and I swear it on our daughter's life we're going to write the final chapter of this story. The Garrison, the Emissary, the Great Power, all of this; it doesn't matter anymore because it's you and me: always and forever, remember our promise. Come what may...I'll make them believe in us."
Rideau Circle
Angel Grove, CA
Same Time
It was happening again as Thea stood in front of the mysterious wall deep beneath Rideau Circle feeling the unknown force beckoning in the distance. The aura and power drastically shifted like whatever laid beyond the wall was stirring, a pulse beating from deep within the source. She can sense a shift in the balance of light and shadow as if the power brought forth by two forces of balance was rising.
What was it that cause this sudden surge in the atmosphere? Why was it having such an profound effect on them but thanks to a miscalculated error of judgment they felt that unknown stirring. It was why she refused to go on the retrieval mission to Reefside to recover the Scarlet Sovereign knowing what laid in that fabled town.
"You're not for one to usually sit out on missions," Salazar said coming down into the cavern. "Especially when it involves your sister's wellbeing, dearie."
"Well what's your excuse Salazar?" Thea questioned. "Balor has an unwavering loyalty towards Dal and Pan has an eerie obsession of causing havoc and mayhem to the White Falcon's life. As for Ashei, well she is left to follow orders now that her partner in crime has been disposed of. In regards to me, well let's just say I like to say I'm going to take the easy road and sit this one out knowing the powder keg awaiting in Reefside."
"I get it and it's their dominion, the so called last sanctuary of the Garrison's old guard left." Salazar replied. "The power of the Ninjetti is noted in Reefside which is why the Garrison established the fabled kingdom many eons ago. We thought it was lost to time from us as many years have passed and the land itself evolved to what it is in its present state."
"Yet it still amazes me how both Reefside and Angel Grove, though two different cities are ironically interconnected with one another." Thea stated. "The land itself is enriched with the history and stories written by the accounts of light and shadow. Four thousand years this chapter of the Garrison and Emissary war on Earth has become embedded by stories and accounts from both sides."
"And yet we are still cast in different variations with the same archetypical role of being the defilers destined never to wield the Great Power." Salazar said flatly. "Although we know our time is limited, it makes me wonder how this chapter's ending will be written?"
"What makes you think we'll be able to survive the upcoming spoilers of this story?" Thea questioned bluntly. "The repercussions of our prior actions are waving heavily upon us and my sister's efforts are now becoming futile. Just when we feel control is in our gasp, it takes a moment of chaos to throw order and balance out of sync. Maybe it is the destiny of our organization to encounter adversaries who dare defy the order and balance of life itself. It is something that I fear will knockdown the foundation of the Emissary for good."
"And here we are still pledging fealty to a dying ideology and going forth with a plan that will bring upon action without reaction." Salazar simply stated. "Our fates are bind to the one thing we have spent eons searching for, the weapon we have longed served and seek. Judging by your deadpan expression you have foreseen our untimely fates haven't you, Thea?"
"Our fates were sealed the moment Malo met his untimely demise. We're vulnerable that is true and the foundation that has held the Emissary together is crumbling pillar by pillar." Thea said sighing, but then she focused her attention on the wall. "However, we are still who we are and we have one last mission to complete. If the foundations of our organization must crumble, then we should get the satisfaction of going out in one last blaze of glory by crumbling the foundation that holds our opposition up."
6:30 p.m
Oliver Residence
Jason and the others made the collective decision to wait it out with Tommy anticipating for the Emissary's impending arrival. For Kat, Aisha and Rocky it involved a quick trip back to Angel Grove with Billy's assistance to make overnight preparations for their kids. Being the offspring of the original Power Rangers, they have gotten use to the routine drill of last minute sleepovers at their grandparents' place. The youngsters knew the protocol of not revealing to their grandparents about their parents' double lives they have kept secret since their teenage days.
Once their affairs were in order on the homefront, it was a quick return back to Reefside where the Rangers helped Tommy on keeping Kimberly contained. Ironically, their wayward crane remained unconscious for the entire day right into the early evening. They observed Amelia watching over her dad as the little girl gave her father a sympathetic look. She was clutching her sketchbook again and the others knew too well what those infamous drawings contained.
She saw that her father kept vigil over her mom throughout the day waiting for her to wake up. However, she couldn't understand why her godparents and the rest of the original veteran Rangers had to strap and restrain Kimberly on the gurney. It was when Amelia felt the aura of the Red Firebird, the spiritual animal manifestation of the Scarlet Sovereign stirring. She wasn't sure what was happening but all she recalled was seeing Jason escort her dad out of the lab and walking out to the backyard.
"I know why you kept Kimberly a secret from the others the last few days." Jason stated as he stared down at Tommy. "I'm your best friend and I know Tommy Oliver always has an alternate motive to things."
Tommy was seated on the back steps while Jason leaned against railing. Tommy might have looked calm and collective, but it was only a front. The man was about to explode and he was looking to unleash the emotional turmoil he was undergoing.
"Nothing ever gets passed you doesn't it bro?" Tommy muttered. "Believe me the last thing I wanted was to spare the guys from the truth, especially you Jase."
"Part of me will tell you she's changed, but still I believe that the Kimberly I knew is still inside." Jason noted.
"Except the one that is kicking it and running about is a different side of the woman you once called sister and one I called Beautiful." Tommy said. "Does it bother me what became of the woman I loved since I was a kid? Did I make myself think I can still have a future with Kim while our other life kept beckoning us? She made a choice back then when she chose her heart and said consequences be damned because it was the same thing I wanted. Now I'm paying for the consequences of those decisions we both made because we followed our hearts in the matter."
"Tommy, have you ever known Kimberly to do anything she didn't want to?" Jason asked and he knew that one of the best ways to keep Tommy calm and his emotions in check was to keep him talking. "The choices Kim made back then wasn't forced upon her. You are not responsible for her actions and she loved you and Amelia more than she loved her own life."
"I know, but it still doesn't change anything." He muttered running his hands down his face.
"It does, and there is still that part inside of her no matter the circumstances that longs to be back with her falcon and little defender." Jason commented as he looked over the backyard. "Everyone will tell you that getting her back is a mission all in itself. However, I know you and you'll prove those who doubt you. Despite what those bastards did to her, part of the woman that you love exists inside. You told her to keep fighting and endure come what may. That still holds true doesn't it?"
"But the consequences and repercussions..." Tommy muttered as Jason nodded.
"Don't worry; I'll be right beside you beating them." Jason stated as Tommy sighed. "As you both will say consequences be damned right?"
"I can't lose her...not again." Tommy whispered. "Five years I lived with that looming shadow, the memories of what Mesogog did that night on the rooftop. I mourned the loss of everything that meant the world to me. I ran from the world because living in it without the other half of my heart, body and soul became an unbearable task. Yet, I'm still here because of the one treasure she and I created together. Seeing her show up like that, it was like a haunting dream that became reality. There is that part of me that feels I may lead her to her death...permanently. I thought I lost her to the void of death, but I think...I fear the promise I kept...I may not fulfill it."
"You're not going to lose her again. That promise you made, you're going to keep it." Jason heard the pain in his voice. It killed him to hear it from Tommy after everything his best friend and his sister have gone through over the years. "Nothing is going to stop you from fulfilling your promise, not even the threat of death itself."
"How do I do that?" Tommy asked finally looking up at Jason. "She has done things I never imagine Kim doing and I couldn't stand hurting you guys, especially you bro. I didn't want you to think that the Kimberly we once knew is truly dead and instead in her place is the vessel known as the Scarlet Sovereign. There is this uncontrollable and untamed fire burning inside of her and how can I calm it down without it consuming the woman I love? She's fighting with whatever will and determination she has left until it rips her from the inside out. So tell me, can I still keep my promise then?"
"I'll tell you how you're going to keep your promise. There are a group of people in this house that love you both and a little girl that means everything to them. They would do anything to get her back for you and your daughter. Don't forget she's their little sister too and their pink crane, the Winged Lady of the Skies. We are a team Tommy, and more than that, we're a family. They took her from us for five years and turned her against us, but they made one crucial mistake. They underestimated us and our power and we will show them what happens when they mess with the heart and soul of our team."
"I know and you're damn right about that." Tommy whispered. "Thanks Jason I appreciate it."
"Hey no problem. Besides, the last thing Reefside needs is to face the wrath of the green dragon." Jason laughed then said. "We may have our Ninjetti powers, but once the Dragon is out on the loose, things tend to go blank and dark inside of you."
"Hey I've made peace with my shadows and my darkness years ago." Tommy said, then questioned. "But seriously, you don't think I can control the evil?"
"Normally yes because you learned to balance both the light and shadow inside of you. That's what makes you strong and powerful. However, when it comes to Kimberly or your daughter, those eyes flash green and remind us of a time when you unleashed that wrath on us." Jason remarked thinking how crazed Tommy looked the last time when he interrogated Malo. "Your deepest emotions and feelings are what fuels the power within you that it manifests into something beyond your control. The shadows inside of you even has the ability to instill fear into the minds of our enemies. When you tap into that darkness, your mind tends to blank out and your instincts take over."
There were facts to what Jason said to him about the state of what his emotions can do. Jason witnessed first hand what happens to Tommy when he becomes emotionally compromised that his degree of control spirals out.
"That was a long time ago," Tommy muttered as Jason nodded. "I've changed a lot since then and I've learned how to keep my emotions in check. Still, I do wonder sometimes if there is a connection between my powers and my emotions that either one of them fuels the other. I've been known to do things others wouldn't imagine when I tap into the deepest core of myself. Like you said, when I tap into the deepest parts of myself, my mind tends to go blank and the instinct and power takes over."
"It was a long time ago but you always had Kim to keep you in check." Jason said. "That connection you have with her is what is keeping you grounded. For the record, I think your connection is what is keeping you both in line from going over the brink of insanity. Also, don't forget Amelia plays a big part of keeping that bridge between you two in tact."
Tommy stood up and walked up next to Jason. "I suspected that and yet I have to prepare myself for what comes next." He said before leaving Jason alone.
Jason shook his head and followed Tommy inside. He knew Tommy wasn't calm enough but it was just going to have to be alright. He could tell that his best friend was done talking for the moment and there was no reason to keep pushing him. Tommy already had enough on his plate to deal with but he felt it was best to let his best friend work out his next course of action.
Once they stepped back in the house they became aware of Amelia's presence, but didn't notice the young girl watching their earlier conversation outside. However, with the situation going on with Kimberly, Tommy's former students made it clear they weren't leaving anytime soon for Amelia's sake. The two of them found Amelia along with the Dino Thunder Rangers in the living room keeping the child occupied and hopefully distracted.
"Daddy, are you feeling better now?" Amelia asked getting up from the table and coming up to her dad giving him a hug.
"Yeah kiddo, I'll be alright don't worry I promise you. Anyways, you can thank your godfather for keeping you dad in line for you." Tommy explained looking at his former team and students. "Hey guys, thanks for keeping an eye on Amelia for me."
"There's no need to thank us Dr. O." Ethan said looking at the two veteran Rangers. "Besides, Amelia here is our honorary little sister. She's an only child so we like the feeling of being honorary older siblings to the little peanut."
"Of course I get the unofficial privilege of mentoring surrogate siblings for my little girl." Tommy laughed then said. "For the record, it's safe to say that my little girl has got all four of you wrapped around her little fingers."
"Hey most of us are only children, well with the exception of Connor." Trent said.
"Come on Dr. O don't be hard on us if we can't say no to that adorable little face of hers." Kira replied. "Besides, mommy and daddy taught their little princess how to work her little charm and cuteness on everybody since she was in diapers. I'm guessing it's that Oliver charm in her genetics that is reason."
"Or maybe there are four adults in their twenties who are probably the biggest pushovers to bow to the whims and pleas of a little girl." Jason said jokingly.
"Jase I think you're right because Amy knows my limits and knows when I won't give into her demands." Tommy slightly smiled. "However, I do find a group of young adults in their twenties do have this tendency to let my daughter burn a hole through their wallet." He smiled looking at his daughter. "So Amy, what's your little secret?"
"Oh come on Dr. O we don't say we spoil Amelia on a daily basis." Trent jokingly replied. "Well with the exception of the sketchbooks she asked us to buy awhile back. Heck, she already almost finish drawing in one of them." Tommy looked at his daughter and the mention of the word drawing these days when it comes to Amelia could mean one thing. "Maybe Amelia must have been an artist in another life or something."
"But I just like drawing because it's fun to do that," Amelia said looking at her dad. "I even draw things whenever the tingling feeling happens inside of me or I draw things I dream about or imagine. Do you want to see my new drawings daddy?"
"Sure, why don't you show me what you drew today with Kira and the others." Tommy murmured as she went to retrieve her sketchbook. While his daughter went to put away her crayons and drawing supplies, Tommy, Jason and his former students were in the living room flipping through the sketches.
"There's a pattern that we notice every time Amelia draws." Connor said as Tommy flipped through the pages. "She'll draw random things at first like boats, cars, food, animals and anything non-related. But then suddenly her drawings start changing."
"Like the power inside of her begins to stir and then she starts to see things." Jason added staring at the pictures.
"Yeah as Amelia will describe it it's because the tingling feeling inside of her makes her draw this stuff." Tommy replied. "Zordon and Dulcea created her bracelet as a means to suppress her power, keep it under control so the Emissary doesn't sense the presence of the Great Power. The Garrison sanctums were built as a secondary defense mechanism to conceal the key of the future, the heir apparent born from the Winged Lord and Lady of the Skies. There are still things that need to be clarified."
"A picture with seven different colored flames?" Ethan asked looking at a picture of seven different colored flames.
"The seven flames of power from the Garrison sanctums, the power source of their dominion." Tommy explained to the group. "One of the many ancient stories the Garrison heard from the Ninjetti Elders on Phaedos. The cliff notes version of the story is that each of those seven flames represent seven different characteristics of existence that reflects one's being and individuality: soul; time; power; mind; space; reality; and knowledge. The flames themselves can only be extinguish when a Garrison sanctum falls and the last member sworn to defend their posted sanctum perishes. In a sense, it's like the Everlasting Spell was referenced in this thing."
"The Emissary already extinguished the power of three sanctums; and the surviving founding members consolidated the remaining power to Monument Valley." Jason confirmed. "With the fall of each sanctum, the efforts of the Garrison to conceal Amelia's true nature weakened."
"But now it doesn't make a difference after finding out despite our efforts Amelia's power doesn't hold any restraints." Tommy said, continuing to flip through Amelia's sketchbooks examining the drawings. "There were legends that foretold prophecies about the heir apparent to the last kingdom of the Ninjetti: the Bloodline of Power, the one True Winged Lord and Lady of the Skies. The falcon and the crane, the destined heirs who embody the universal balance of shadow and light. According to lore the true union of shadow and light will bring upon the key of the future; light and shadow's true power, the living embodiment of the Great Power, it's Amelia. It's not just the power of the Ninjetti she embodies, she wields the Great Power itself and my kid is starting to test the true strength of the power she holds without knowing it."
"Wait a second, the lore and myth of the Great Power, it's more than just a story?" Kira asked. "Then everything, the stories you and Kim used to tell us about the Ninjetti and the Great Power, the sacred animal spirits, all of it? So, it's all real? You're saying that the living embodiment of the Great Power is Amelia?"
"In a sense all of it is coming true thanks to this eternal fight between the Garrison and Emissary." Tommy explained, looking through the sketchbook. "Long story short to refresh your memories guys. What is buried underneath Angel Grove is rumored to believe the ancient remains of the original Sacred Animals of the Ninjetti from millions of years ago." Ironically, he flipped to the sketch of what looked like animal bones of dirt as he continued. "It's the secret to what kept the Emissary alive for many years, harvesting the bones in a bid for immortality at the cost of triggering a Modus Operandi every time it happens. To the Ninjetti, it's a vile act of desecration to sacred remains."
"Whenever the Emissary would dig up the remains of the ancient bones, catastrophes would leading to disasters and utter destruction." Tommy continued. "They have done this many times before in different lifetimes; different planets and the results were the same. The Garrison believed that the Great Power itself found a way to preserve the remnants of the power the Emissary attempted to procure for their own gain that it needed a vessel to safeguard the power itself. It wasn't until four thousand years ago in their bid for one last ploy of desecrating the remains of the ancient bones, a bloodline came to be, one chosen by the Ninjetti Order to rule over the last kingdom standing."
"Let me guess, the bloodline was needed to create a vessel to safeguard the greatest power in the universe?" Ethan asked.
"Yeah pretty much and it required the Winged Lord and Lady of the Skies; the falcon and the crane. The heir apparent soulmates that mastered the balance of shadow and light, according to lore." Tommy replied clutching his necklace. "It was what the Garrison try to conceal for four thousand years from the Emissary until now. Those bastards are coming for their weapon and my daughter. That is my family they want to take from me again for their own personal gain. However, I feel there are other forces beyond the light and shadow, beyond good and evil that are at work and myself, Kim and Amelia are in the centre of it. That goes the same with everyone else."
"Daddy, what are you going to do?" A voice emerged and surprisingly it was Amelia who asked the question, much to the group's shock. "I maybe seven years old dad, but I'm not stupid." The others slightly chuckled at the sly remark of the little girl and Tommy let out a small smile amazed by his daughter's never give up attitude. She was definitely his daughter and also had her mother's heart and will. "I trust you daddy and I love you very much. Those people that brought mommy back with magic, they're bad and are the reason why the bad tingling feelings are happening to mom isn't it? They want me do they and they want to take mom away again do they?"
"Yeah kiddo, those people who brought mommy back are bad and they're after your mom and you." Tommy said as he bent down placing a hand on Amelia's shoulder.
"If they want to take mommy away from us again then let them try because it won't happen!" Amelia replied much to Tommy's shock. "I know why they want mom it's because of her special power and to hurt you more daddy. They want me too because of my special power but I'm going to kick their butt! It's because of them that mommy is acting funny and screaming a lot. They did something to her didn't they because I can feel it like you do."
"Sweetie no way. This is way too dangerous and I can't bare it if anything happens to you. Those people that are responsible for what happened to your mom, they won't stop until they get her back and get their hands on you too." Tommy replied. "Amelia, you mean the world to me and you're the one constant that kept me going for five years while they took your mom away from us. There are things happening to you, to me, and to your mom that we have yet to understand. Something or someone needs us to do something very important that may decide the fate of the world."
"I know that because you used to tell me all the stories about the Power Rangers." Amelia insisted. "Mommy needs us to fight to keep her out of the empty place. She may not know us because of what the bad people did to her, but she can't forget us or you because you're her falcon. Mom is still in there because you believe it and so do I."
"There is no way I'm going to put you at risk because it's the last thing your mom wouldn't want for you. I'm going to fight the ones responsible for all of this because I have to and it's my job. The last thing I don't want for you is to become a soldier for someone else's war. Believe me princess, the one thing that will make me happy in this world is you growing up being the pure hearted, kind and innocent little girl that means everything to me and your mom."
"But I don't want anything bad to happen to you, just like what is happening to mom right now." Amelia replied. "My drawings worries me because I think it's going to come true, all of it. I know you want to keep me safe, but who's going to keep you safe dad? I can fight too and I need you to believe me when I tell you I'm not going to let the bad guys take mom away from us again!"
Tommy felt a shift in Amelia's aura and the sensation was overwhelming. It was like a tidal wave of power coursing through her fueled by her heart's desire and will. "I'm not going to let them take you away from me too daddy because I'm going to fight with you." the young girl vowed looking at her dad.
"Listen to me Amelia Hope Oliver and you listen to me very carefully. I'm not going anywhere that I promise you and there is no way I'm going to let the same thing happen to your mother happen to you, not to you. Princess, I want you to know that you are fighting whether you don't realize it or not. You're fighting to hold on to the belief and hope that we'll get your mom back and we will win this fight when everyone else tells me your mom is lost. If you're going to fight alongside me I need you to promise me something my little defender?"
"What is it?" Amelia asked.
"I need you to promise me that no matter what happens or how scary things will get down the road, you keep hope alive and don't let your heart falter? If I fall into that empty place or if something happens to me to save your mom, I need you to be brave, boldness and true. I need you to be unbowed, unbent and unbroken and you do not yield to anyone that will stand in your way. You are our legacy Amelia and it is because of you, that spark of hope stays alive. Can you promise me that, kiddo? Promise me that no matter what happens, you make sure that you and only you decides what your fate and destiny is? More than anything your happiness is what I fight for."
"Okay, I'll keep my promise to you daddy." Amelia replied giving her dad a hug. "I'll keep it no matter what happens and I'll make sure you keep your promise to mom."
It had been a very memorable day for the Oliver family to say the least. To their friends and everyone close to them they knew Tommy and Amelia were a family who dealt with more than their fair share of emotional trauma. Tommy made put this facade of being the fearless and strong willed leader that many perceived him to be. Yet, at the end of the day he reminded himself of his priorities and the things that mattered to him in his life.
Still, it was a testament to his character as to how he can keep going and withstand the turbulent trials put upon his own heart time and time again. The Emissary and Garrison war; the fate and future of the Ninjetti; his mission to protect the two lights in his life from an looming and uncertain future. Even if there was a moment of despair and hopelessness, he knew that somehow if either him or Kim will ultimately fall at the end of this, their hope for the future was safeguarded. It was a promise he vowed not to break because more than ever this promise was what needed to keep him going or die trying to fulfill it.
8:30 p.m
Reefside Forest
Zordon felt a disturbance in the air as if the Garrison's hidden sanctuary was being at risk of danger. It was already establish that Reefside was the de facto safe haven knowing it was the one place the Emissary's influence wouldn't penetrate. The forest itself had been a focal point of their mission for many years since it housed the one last kept secrets of the Ninjetti: the hidden kingdom. It will be here where they would set the foundations for the future and next generation of the Ninjetti Order.
However, his state of meditation was disrupted when Dulcea made her presence known being accompanied by three agents of the Garrison. From their sigil they were under the command of Roxas. To Zordon's surprise, he saw that Quinn entered the hidden hideout with an unconscious captive that turned out to be an Emissary agent.
"Leave it to Roxas to instruct a small brigade to keep eyes on our safe haven." Dulcea reported nodding an acknowledgement to the Garrison agents. "I do pray that him and Jade are safeguarded to keep our last contingency and sanctum in tact. However, knowing those two we are all in agreement to uphold our fealty to ensure the survival of our organization after all these years."
"If we needed an elite patrol to keep our safe haven guarded, always count on Roxas' "Phantoms" to do the job." Quinn explained. "We've trained only the elite and prestigious warriors to induct as "Phantoms." Roxas will only deploy them if the time was needed for their skills and abilities to mimic and match tactic and wit with any of the Emissary's prized warriors. Our covert brigade who masked themselves in the shadows and strike down our foes when threatened."
"And unfortunately they bring reports that the Emissary have crossed into Reefside seeking their weapon." Dulcea said sighing. "It can only mean one thing..."
"...Our wayward ladyship has made her way to the place she once called home." Zordon explained to the group. "However, the balance shadow and light rages on within her and her power will become unhinged, but also will multiply. The chains that bind her to the Emissary are breaking one by one and yet it will cause a tremendous mental strain on her fragile state of mind."
"And yet I can sense her aura wavering with every passing day. Without a full restoration of what she once was, I'm afraid the crane cannot sustain a half-life existence and unfortunately, dire consequences will be paid in an impossible fleet." Dulcea stated cryptically.
"Never expected those bastards to show up in this neck of the woods." Quinn scoffed with disdain. "The Bloodline of Power is in peril along with their pursuit to reclaim their bestowed claimant as the heir apparent of the Ninjetti. All bets are off and the Emissary is looking for everything to come full circle at a terrible cost. The question comes as to which foundation will crumble first between both factions?"
"They will not find this kingdom for this sanctuary is what the Garrison has long safeguarded for over four thousand years." Zordon proclaimed. "This dominion belongs to the next generation of the Ninjetti Order. This last kingdom was meant to be governed by the Bloodline of Power and their trusted council. These lands have witness the scars and perils of time throughout the ages. We have our fealty to uphold and this organization wasn't assembled without a purpose."
He looked to the elite of the Garrison agents that were called the Phantoms who knelt before the leader of the Garrison, original Elder of the Ninjetti Order, and ancient being and sage of Eltar. They heard the stories and legends of the Ninjetti for many eons and how the legacy itself travelled among the stars for many years.
Even with their numbers in the massive decline and their forces on the brink of extinction, the Garrison were not one to yield or submit to the banes of evil. Most importantly, they were not going to let the Emissary defile the legacy of the Ninjetti and Great Power again. They knew too well their longtime adversaries and it was just a matter of time before the last chapter will be written. Either way, it was predetermined that this war will come to its final end, the question was what the outcome will be.
10:00 p.m
The rest of the original Rangers were on edge wondering what their wayward original Pink Ranger's state of mind would be. For Tommy, it was about anticipating which side of Kimberly was going to regain consciousness and whether or not they were prepared. He couldn't combat unpredictability because there was no way to be prepared for it and he was most certainly not expecting the events that transpired the last few days. However, Tommy's senses started working again and anticipated a rough night ahead.
"Tommy we got a situation in the forest!" Hayley reported to everyone in the lab and Billy joined the redhead at the computers an pulled up the visual screen. Sure enough, it was the worst timing possible and the Rangers saw a small Emissary force in the forest alongside Dalia and a few of the pillars. All hell was going to break loose in a matter of minutes as Kimberly started stirring and mumbling gibberish. The effects of the Emissary's work was brought on full display in the most brutal fashion.
"Guys, take a look at this." Billy said as the Rangers turned their attention to the screen. They saw that some of the Emissary's forces were dropping dead on the ground mysteriously as they gasped, bled or fallen like an entity at fast lightning speed was responsible for it. "Do you see what I'm seeing?"
"Looks like our enemies are dropping dead in less than five steps or something is disposing of them at quick speed." Jason observed as he saw another one of the Emissary's agents drop on the ground dead seeing his neck snap back in a gruesome manner.
"You crazy and maniacal son of a bitch. So, I guess all those campfire stories are no longer tall tales huh?" Tommy said in awe watching the scene unfold. Unfortunately, his attention diverted when the others rushed over to Kimberly's side as she regained consciousness attempting to breakout of her restraints.
"What's happening to me, what is going on?" Kim asked breaking free from the restraints and stumbling off the gurney. "Who are you people? Where the hell am I?"
"Kimberly?! Hey listen we're not going to hurt you." Tommy said calmly, but then Kim fell on the floor and let out a horrible scream, which only caused Amelia to rush down into the lab and see her dad rush to her mom's side. He was already by her side and suddenly she started glowing an eerie shade of pink, an ominous sign of things to come.
"What's happening to her? Is this another side effect?" Jason asked looking at his best friends and knowing everyone else's reluctance to intervene.
"I want it to stop, this sensation. I need to snap the thing that binds me." Kim said, gritting her teeth as she looked at Tommy. "Do you know how to snap it, Tommy?"
"What does she mean by snapping the thing that binds her?" Aisha asked, as Kim let out another scream and fell back on the floor. "Tommy, what are you going to do? Look, I know it will be another heartbreaking episode again to go through this. It's the last thing we would never wish for you to go through."
"It's the Emissary isn't it? As long as she's bind by that Everlasting Spell to them she is in more danger than we can let on." Adam warned sighing.
"Get back, get back all of you!" Kim snapped suddenly getting up as she let out another scream of pain and felt more pink sparks showering her. With a sign of inhumane strength, she pushed Aisha and Tommy aside and repelled anyone else who came close by. "Oh god I feel like I'm being ripped apart from the inside out! Something is beckoning me in the far distance! Something keeps me bind and I feel like I need to unleash the fire burning within me! You said you'll help me please!"
Her instincts kicked in as she knocked down a medical trolley and picked up a scalpel holding it out to keep Tommy and the others at bay. The others saw in Kimberly's eyes a primal and feral nature of someone kept in captivity and isolation for years. She didn't have any recollection of the other people present in the room, but for she couldn't take her gaze off of Tommy as if whatever was brewing in her only stayed calm in Tommy's presence.
"Kimberly, Kim listen to me. I need you to breathe in and out can you do that?" Tommy mumbled slowly approaching much to the dismay of the others. "Please Kim, you have to remember me. You need to listen to my voice, you know who I am. I told you I'm right here and I got you. Do you remember what I said?"
"Huh Tommy I don't think it's a good idea for you to approach Kim if she..." Justin tried to argue only for the White Ranger to stop him mid sentence. She started breathing heavily and reluctantly, lowered her arm she was holding the scalpel in. Slowly, but cautiously Tommy stepped forward and took the scalpel out of Kimberly's hands.
"I...I...I can't be here can I?" She suddenly asked, looking at everyone around the room. She wasn't sure why there were despondent looks on their faces full of regret and heartache. Did she know them too in another life as this Kimberly Hart-Oliver person? Everything was becoming all jumbled up inside and this nagging feeling within her told her that they didn't want to relinquish her back to the Emissary. On the contrary, her presence here was also causing an unsettling threat coming their way. "The Emissary they're here for me aren't they? And me being here is putting someone you love at risk isn't it? Is it...Amelia that will be at risk?"
"Well someone needs to make a decision here people." Rocky alerted seeing on the screen a confrontation breakout between the Emissary and the Garrison in the forest. It didn't make things easy that since Tommy lived out in the middle of nowhere and in close proximity to the Reefside Forest. For a moment, they thought they heard a loud explosion in the far distance and the confrontation was getting violent by the second the more they observed it.
"Right now we got a grudge match happening in the forest not too far away from here." Tanya replied, but then she and the others saw Tommy giving Billy some instructions by the computer.
"Are you sure about this Tommy?" they heard Billy asked their longtime friend. "This is one calculated move I didn't anticipate, but I guarantee you the coordinates work."
"It's the one last option I got and it's better out there than back in the hands of the Emissary, or at the Garrison's judgment." Tommy said to Billy before redirecting his attention back to Kimberly. He simply held out his hand as a sign of trust to the confused and disorientated woman. "Kimberly, do you trust me?" With a reluctant nod she shakily took Tommy's hand and held it when he called out. "Billy, teleport us right now!"
"Mommy! Daddy!" Amelia yelled as Billy activated the computer and the young girl watched her parents suddenly disappear in a flash of white and pink light. Jason and Kat held their goddaughter back to prevent her from getting caught up in the teleportation. "Wait, where did my parents go?"
"Billy, what the hell did you do?!" Jason asked shockingly. "Exactly where did you teleport them to?"
"It's simple, Tommy told me to teleport him and Kim somewhere out of the reaches of the Emissary and the Garrison." Billy said cryptically. "A place that we know holds special memories in our heart and soul...a place that is responsible for "the life" we were introduced to long ago."
Unknown Location
Two beams of pink and white touched down in the middle of a secluded and barren desert in the dusk of night. Long ago, they used to call this place a second home and the pile of rubble and debris that remained of the once safe haven stood as a reminder of the monument that introduced them to "the other life."
It was a starry and cloudless night in the desert with the minor echoes of the coyotes that roamed the wild sandy terrain. Despite how much time has passed since that fateful pilgrimage over a decade ago, the derelict ruins of the Power Chamber stood as a memorial to the days of yesterday and eternal memories never to be forgotten. She studied Tommy's expression seeing a few tears being shed and to her surprise she felt a wave a empathy standing on the grounds of this foreign terrain.
He told her to trust him and the beckoning voice in the far distance told her to trust it only to be suddenly whisked away mysteriously to parts unknown. However, something about this place brought a familiar sense of longing and yearning as if this other life Kimberly Hart-Oliver once lived had ties to these desert ruins.
"You said to trust you and yet we are suddenly whisked away in this sandy barren terrain. However, this place feels familiar the more I stand here and these ruins bring upon a sense of fate and destiny intertwining." Kimberly said. "Being here, I feel the urges quelling inside of me, like this was a place of importance to me once upon a time."
With that, he threw his arms around Kimberly. Though startled at first, though surprisingly never let him go.
"There are some places deep within our hearts and souls we can never forget." Tommy whispered letting out a small sob. "Although inside of us we're damaged, the memories stay constant and we can never forget the longing we desire and yearn for. Your heart maybe tattered, bruised or torn inside, but deep down you know you can't forget this place or me for that matter."
"Then why can't I seek what I long for?" She asked. "The layers are coming down, but not without a price is there? Is it why you brought me here knowing what I can do?"
"It's the risk I'm willing to take to fight for matters of the heart." Tommy said. "Each day it becomes a struggle but I endure it because it's who I am. I'll take everything that comes my way: the good, the bad and everything in between. No matter how much pain and aguish I have to suffer, I'll take it all without no regret."
"Even if it means costing you the thing you love the most in the world?" Kim said. "Something is happening to me and I am the equilibrium in this struggle you're facing because I can feel it. It seems like the life I lived before was of great importance and significance. It is still now isn't it? Tell me, what are you fighting for, Tommy Oliver?"
"I fight for a future and for the impossible to become possible. I'll still fight for it even at the cost of keeping the one I love the most at arm's lengths." Tommy whispered reluctantly relinquishing his hold on Kimberly. "You may not remember me yet, or the life we shared together with the daughter we treasure. You asked if you were a risk to Amelia's safety just being so close? It is true...but I know deep down you won't harm her because of the connection we share."
"Is it why you brought me here in the middle of the desert to keep her safe?" Kim said. "I feel this war raging inside of me like two sides of a coin are trying to coincide with one another. This unknown beckoning presence calls to me in the distance trying to keep me falling into the void. Amelia, she is an interesting child, an unyielding sprite who has yet to discover the many wonders within her."
"Yeah, that's Amelia for you: an unyielding and untamed sprite. She gets that from both her parents: the falcon and the crane, the Winged Lord and Lady of the Skies. It's her birthright and the fate and destiny ahead for the bloodline destined to reign over the last claimant of the Ninjetti Kingdom." Tommy slightly smiled but then notice Kim let out a small sigh as if something about that statement triggered something. "As for my reason of bringing you here as I said you're better off being unbound and out here than in the hands of those who want you to yield for their own purposes."
"I understand your reason and for the record I am bound nor I yield to nobody but myself." Kim said. "You risked a lot knowing there will be repercussions you'll face for your actions. Whenever I encounter you...something stirs inside...like...you...were...a constant presence to me. However, a weighted burden is in you and a reluctance with it."
"There is and it gets harder each time, but I know it's not the end, for us." Tommy replied sadly taking a step back but surprisingly found her not moving. "Regardless of what state you're in or how I find you, I'll always love you regardless. Survive and endure whatever comes, Beautiful and never forget: always and forever."
"Somehow you'll find me again because it is who you are." Kim said. "Something tells me you'll always find me, Tommy."
Tommy nodded, and sadly tapped his communicator and raised it to his mouth. With one last glance, he looked at her and she acknowledge what must be done. A few moments later, she saw him disappear in a flash of white light away from the secluded desert ruins.
Alone in the nighttime sandy terrain, it occurred to her that she found herself indebted to Tommy. It was for the fact that out in these ruins he gave her a feeling she had thought was nonexistent. Tommy finally gave her the freedom and wildness she desire, but at what price did it come at?