(Author's Notes: Hey everyone here's Chapter 42 & I hope you all continue to keep the reviews coming. After being put in the middle of a standoff, Tommy prepares the Rangers to venture below the depths of Angel Grove in a bid to catch the Emissary offguard.)
Chapter 42: Breaking Ground
July 16th, 2009
Midnight
Reefside Forest
For Tommy Oliver he knew what an active battlefield looked like the second he found himself back in Reefside Forest in the dead of midnight. He was already emotionally drained and worn out after the events that transpired less than two hours ago.
He simply ignored the inquiries and questions that his friends and allies asked him once Billy teleported him back to his lab. Some of them thought it was a high risk calculated decision he made to teleport himself and Kimberly out to the deserts of the old Command Center Ruins away from the reaches of the Emissary, the Garrison and more importantly, from themselves.
By unintentionally giving Kimberly an impromptu freedom and letting her out in the wild was it the right call to make? Just when he thought he was within arm's lengths of reclaiming his wayward crane, there were forces and circumstances that kept them from within reach. Upon returning to the lab, the video image continued to show the violent confrontation between the Emissary and the Garrison.
Watching the scene unfold on the screen, he felt the stirring presence of Dragon slowly emerging, much to the reluctance of Brennan and Shalimar. Although the dormant powers of the green dragon were beneficial, at times Dragon proved to be an unpredictable wildcard to handle fueled by the emotional turmoil raging within Tommy. Unfortunately, to the dismay of the rest of the Rangers, they found that once again their White Ranger fearlessly headed back into action and right into an active warzone.
Using his heightened senses, he can detect the movements of the Emissary's forces and that of the Garrison's elite fighters dubbed The Phantoms. Another one of Quinn's many campfire stories come to life as he was the only one who could detect the Phantoms. It was a name that was appropriate for them as being silent guardians swearing fealty to the Garrison's cause but yet also carrying the methodology and tactics of the Garrison themselves.
However, his attention was solely focused on the four pillars of the Emissary currently present in the melee. He could see Quinn and Dulcea in the fray taking on their longtime adversaries. Unfortunately, the primal rage and anger festering inside of Tommy thinking about the current state of Kimberly was overtaking him. For a moment, his eyes glowed green and the dormant green ranger power radiating in him. It was still an internal struggle to balance both the shadow and light within him. But with much negotiation and urging from the falcon and its mate, the crane they were able to quell the restless presence and negotiate co-existing to aid the human mate destined to balance both sides.
"Oh crap, fire and blood is about to rain down on all of us." Quinn moaned in dismay feeling an massive power surge brewing in Tommy and turned to Dulcea. "Can you sense that Dulcea? The shadow and light within the Winged Lord of the Skies, they are coexisting to balance the power within their chosen human."
"You people have the balls to actually show up in my neck of the woods do you?" Tommy warned standing before everyone in his White Ninjetti robes. As another dead minion was slain, Tommy leapt into action, surging forward and knocking Pan into a tree and grabbing his neck to hold him in place. "This feels like old times doesn't it, Zeltrax? Or is it Pan now these days to your Emissary buddies?"
"Tommy, this is not you. Please hear our plea, white falcon." Dulcea pleaded with the emotionally conflicted young man. "Do not contest to combat them at the cost of your moral compass and everything that embodies the Winged Lord of the Skies."
"Why shouldn't I contest them by using the Emissary's own tactics on them? Or your methods and ideologies for that matter as the Garrison? Isn't that what you wanted, a soldier to fight in this war since I was eleven? It was what Quinn was training us for, to go to war." Tommy said tightening his hold on Pan. "Do you think I will ever forget that night when your former herald Mesogog took away the woman I loved from me five years ago? You people dug her up, shoved her into that sarcophagus and brought back to life the tattered and damaged woman who is my mate and ladyship. You thought she is your Scarlet Sovereign, the deity the Emissary lives to serve and life itself? Did you honestly think that for every action, there is a reaction and what you did to her is beyond words. You think by casting that folly of an Everlasting Spell it will buy you fools time in your fool's quest for immortality but guess what? Your weapon...it was always defective and imagine that the Scarlet Sovereign you all blindly put your fealty in is the thing that will take apart the foundations of your organization once and for all."
"Not unless you be the one to end her first, Tommy before you begin." Pan gritted with a false bravado. However, his choice of words only put Tommy in a more foul mood after the emotional day he had. Surprisingly, Tommy loosen the grip on Pan's neck trying to regain his composure only to be met with a katana pointed directly straight at his chest. Tommy sensed the other members of both factions ready to unsheathe their weapons ready for another round.
"Clearly, you should have known never mess with me, especially when it comes to those I love." Tommy said glaring at him and then turning his attention to Dalia. "You're here because your weapon defected again after what happened to Malo. It was a sight witnessing first hand the repercussions of what your little spell did to Kimberly. I don't know who benefits from it and who doesn't. All I know is you people are all running on borrowed time and it's only a matter of time before your weapon completely malfunctions on you."
"You don't understand the half of it." Dalia stated looking at the Garrison and then turning her attention to Tommy. "Besides, we're not the only ones with secrets and we can sympathizes with you Tommy what it is like to be manipulated by the hand of fate. Are you familiar with the saying for everything action, there is a reaction? Believe me, we wouldn't be the way we are if it wasn't for what transpired many years ago back in Pheados."
"What you defilers did was an act of desecration against the Ninjetti and the Great Power." Dulcea snapped back. "You disrespected the teachings and tarnished the legacy of the Ninjetti and exploited it for your own collective soul purposes! For many generations, you degenerates made it your mission to denounce the Ninjetti and the Great Power and what did you benefit you in the end?"
"At least we swore our fealty to heralds you people denounced as so called degenerates in this universe!" Balor interjected back, but at this point Tommy witnessed the verbal altercation occurring between both sides. It was clear that this war between the Garrison and Emissary had been going on for far too long. It was the question as to how many innocent bystanders unwillingly became pawns and soldiers needed to fight for either side. "We may have wiped out each other throughout the ages but never forget that this battle between our two factions will always be written in blood."
"Yeah and how many lifetimes have each side paid the price for this war?" Quinn questioned angrily.
"Do you understand what this ancient war has done to countless lives across the galaxy? Each side fights for their own vocation but both sides fight for mere survival to live out our existences as we intended." Dalia replied. "We do admit that there were countless lives drawn into our eternal conflict with one another. It is a travesty for innocent lives to be thrown away at a fool's errand. However, in the midst of the violence and chaos, a greater purpose is served out from whatever perspective or side you're on."
"You got to be joking me if you think for one second I'm going to believe anything to comes out from either any of your mouths." Tommy said. "I have been used time and time again in this great big war of good versus evil. It doesn't matter how you spin it because many innocent lives get drawn into the conflict and they are the ones that pay the price for it with their lives. For four thousand years, this eternal conflict has ravaged this planet for far too long but guest what? I'm going to make sure what was set in motion five years ago, I'm going to finish it." Looking down at Pan and seeing him subdued on the floor, Tommy stared back at the sword in his hand. The tip of the blade was mere inches away from Pan's chest but Balor and Ashei were ready to attack and awaiting Dalia's orders. "They call you the puppet master of the Emissary, the one pulling the strings behind the scene. You think you can manipulate one puppet to do your organization's bidding like the last one did? Buddy, you picked the wrong puppet for the job."
Pan felt a slight pinch from the tip of Tommy's katana but he saw the demeanour change in his eyes. There was an edge and coldness to them, the same one he unleashed after the Scarlet Sovereign's rebirth. However, with Tommy's eyes there was a depth to them that unintentionally held both sides at bay. He was indeed an heir apparent of the Bloodline of Power, but he felt the drastic shifting aura brewing inside his adversary. Was he going to be another casualty to witness the true power of shadow and light?
"For heaven's sake, let him go! We have already lost one pillar and like you and your allies, we stand together." The sudden plea from Ashei surprised both sides as Tommy looked at his adversaries who had looks of shock and fear. Deep down, the reluctant pillar of the Emissary knew what the White Ranger desired and for the Emissary's sake and also that of the Garrison's didn't want their situation to escalate even further. It was already a fact that the Emissary were running on borrowed time and the whereabouts of the Scarlet Sovereign was still a topic of discussion. Tommy looked at Ashei and realized she was the only one of the Emissary who was serious about preventing another round of conflict from breaking out. Besides, too much blood was spilled this night examining the dead bodies of agents on both sides laying lifeless.
"If you agree to our terms of parley and cease fire this once, we will depart from Reefside right away..." Dalia whispered reluctantly. "You...you have our word..."
"Tommy, kid do not do something there is no turning back from." Quinn pleaded with his former student. "What they're saying...they'll honor their word to leave because like us, they too value their lives and fealty to one another. You want to fight this war do you? Then fight it on your own terms, your own way. Hey, you're pretty much scaring both sides of the fence shitless here which is why everyone is at a standstill. Kid, you hold all the cards in your hands and everyone here will yield to your wishes."
"...There's a tradeoff if I spare this scumbag's life and what you want in return is the location of your weapon." Tommy stated. "You keep your word you leave Reefside then I'll let you in on where I stashed your Scarlet Sovereign." He slowly raised his katana up from Pan's chest as the frightened pillar breathed a sigh of relief. Ashei and Balor quickly rushed to retrieve Pan under Dalia's orders as both sides stood across from each other with Tommy expectedly situated in the middle. He listened as the Garrison's elite warriors the Phantoms stood down discreetly without any sound or detection. He saw Dalia's expression change to a calm and neutral demeanour reluctantly.
"I guessed it was a fool's errand to invade your territory for our impromptu visit was worth nothing." Dalia said sighing. "The Scarlet Sovereign's presence was felt here earlier in Reefside, but she is now out of our reaches. I should probably thank you for that, white falcon removing the potential threat that would have harmed this city. The bond of the falcon and crane cannot be severed and to those who are bestowed the claimant of Winged Lord and Lady of the Skies are destined to carry the weight of the crown it comes with. They are what originated the royal Bloodline of Power: a bond of two soulmates created by balancing both shadow and light which is why it still beats...in her."
"And yet it is by your hands you brought back my mate into whatever the hell your magics and mystics did." Tommy snapped angrily.
"On the contrary, anyone born within the Bloodline of Power can accomplish fleets beyond their comprehension." Dalia stated. "It was something we learned long ago from our first elders and masters. There is more to the story of the Bloodline of Power and its destined lord and lady chosen to rule over its governed kingdom. As I said...there are forces beyond the control of good and evil that are at work. There's a strong will and heart that beats within you, Tommy Oliver. A rarity to see an individual like you make the agents of good and evil bend the knee to the One True Winged Lord of the Skies because of the power that lays dormant in you."
Something in Dalia's speech startled Tommy but for a brief moment he looked to both sides as if there was a rare mutual understanding amongst the warring factions. It was ironic he found himself standing right in the centre between two factions vying for control and dominion in one last bid to end this chapter of their eternal conflict. Yet, in this moment of parley and cease fire, Tommy continued to hold his ground trying to make sense of things as the Emissary made their quiet exit as promised. However, as the two factions passed one another, Dulcea discreetly grabbed Dalia's arm, much to the surprise of the Emissary leader.
"You know as well as everyone does how this war will end..." Dulcea whispered in a threatening tone to her adversary. Despite the infinite wisdom and knowledge these ancient beings possessed, Dalia knew better that some things that were better left unsaid until the time was right to reveal them. "We have been at this for far too long so why now divulge what we thought was once lost to time? You always have an angle you're playing at, Dalia."
"This war will come to an end that is a guarantee, but the outcome itself has yet to be determined." Dalia growled. "The future itself is not set in stone, but unfortunately there is a shift that has been felt, but not in how either of us see it fit. Being agents of good and evil respectively, there are forces that dictate the fates and destinies of all. It seems the forces beyond our control has already started and it will only be a matter of time before it will reveal itself to all in our hour of twilight."
Once the Emissary left, Tommy focused his attention back to the remaining members of the Garrison. He couldn't help but notice the rare nod of acknowledgement as if both sides knew something but were worried to say.
"I can agree with them...this war will come to an end that is guarantee." Tommy muttered sternly. "The outcome hasn't been decided but yet I feel that it will be determined by a force beyond the recognition of light and shadow. So tell me, are we the ones that will unleash this unknown force to write out the final chapter of this war?"
July 25, 2009
Scott Residence
Angel Grove, CA
It took a children's birthday party being hosted at the Scott residence to liven the mood and bring together family and friends for the day. For Jason and Kat, it is hard to imagine how fast time flies. Two years ago, the gang thought Jason and Kat were done expanding their family with Henry and the twins Matt and Liv. After all, how does a couple manage to raise three children all under the age of six?
However, their friends were proven wrong when the group's resident child "breeders" once again added to their collection of children with the birth of their daughter, Hazel Ann Scott. Despite the recent events that have occurred the last couple of months, nothing was going to stop Jason and Kat from celebrating Hazel's birthday. For the couple, they needed this day for themselves as a reminder of the joys and pleasures of life and parenthood.
With the party in full swing, Jason and Kat knew they weren't getting Hazel back anytime soon with their friends and family passing her around. There were squeals of joy throughout the day from Hazel as she opened her presents, ran around and played with her new toys and shoved cake in her face. For Amelia, Bianca and Robbie it was nice to have another day visiting all four of Jason and Kat's kids.
It was noted that Justin and Billy were absent at Hazel's birthday. Of course Trini was going to get on Billy's case for missing out on their goddaughter's birthday as the others would expect. However, she had to let it slide knowing that their two residential geniuses were working on something down in the lab. They also were surprised to hear that Tommy and Amelia were staying in town for a couple of days at his parents' house since his parents were on their annual European summer vacation.
"So you're going to stick in town for the next couple of days is that right, bro?" Jason replied as he poured another pitcher of soft drinks for his friends. "Are we going to have another one of our late night gaming nights where I schooled you guys in Street Fighter?"
"Jase I believe it's the other way around, my old bro." Tommy jokingly said. "Besides, I owned all of you guys and if so I can even win with one arm tied behind my back."
"Bring it Mr. Multicolored Rainbow Man," Rocky laughed. "We still have your parents' house on our calling list."
"Oh great girls look at our men," Kat sighed playfully with the girls teasing Jason and the other guys. "Planning another boys night in with their video games and gamer trash talking to see which one of them is in need of an ego boost. Don't you expect to be bringing our sons to your guys' night in gaming parties Jason Lee Scott because our children do have bedtime schedules may I remind you."
"Oh poor Jason looks like our local breeder is officially whipped." Tommy smiled teasing his best friend. To see Tommy joking and laughing was a rare occasion these days giving everything he's been through the last five years. For his close friends if there was one wish they could all make collectively it was to see their longtime friend happy again and reunited with his pink crane.
"Very funny man and apparently my goddaughter picked up on daddy's gaming skills." Jason replied. "Imagine Kim rolling her eyes learning that her little princess is becoming a miniature version of Mr. Tardy and forgetful here."
"Well Kim should be proud that at least Amelia got her mommy's memory genes instead of daddy's." Tommy smiled letting out a chuckle and sigh. Taking in on Justin and Billy's absence from Hazel's birthday, there was a hint as to what the two geniuses were working on.
"You're noticing our two resident geniuses' absence aren't you?" Trini asked changing the topic of discussion.
"It's obvious and it has to do with Rideau Circle's little underground project?" Tommy replied as he closed his eyes and concentrated. He could feel the unknown force beneath the city but his years of experience with his Ninjetti Powers and mastering them was putting itself to use. "Being in Angel Grove gives off this sensation that hits me at full throttle. We can feel whatever it is stirring beneath the surface of this city and it's getting restless..."
"But somehow that unknown force is drawing the Bloodline of Power in," Aisha said. "It makes us curious to know exactly what we're dealing with beneath the surface."
"Even if we find our way down underground, what then? Rideau Circle is a corporate fortress and they'll know we'll be coming." Zack said. "We barely got out after our first trip. How exactly are we going to slip behind enemy lines undetected?"
"You guys mentioned that Billy and Justin kept the area around Rideau Circle under surveillance for months." Tommy said formulating a plan. "Coincidentally, the lab underneath the Dune Lion Records connects to the defunct and abandoned subway tunnels. The tunnels themselves are at least one mile below the street level. There has to be a way to record the activity underneath Rideau Circle to figure out exactly where "below the surface" leads to?"
"You're actually suggesting we venture below the ground to figure out exactly what is buried underneath Angel Grove?" Tanya asked surprisingly.
"We need to stop the Emissary by any means knowing how desperate they are to stay alive and keep themselves in tact." Tommy explained recalling the recent incident in Reefside. "I didn't come to Angel Grove for more than just a visit. I came to take the fight to those bastards after that stunt they pulled in Reefside. Yeah I struck a nerve in them by keeping Kimberly out of their reaches knowing what I did again to keep her of their hands. My emotions got the best of me again and I literally tapped into unleashing the green dragon again on the Emissary if it wasn't for the intervention of the Garrison. But then something that the Emissary said got to me..."
"What is it?" Rocky asked. "You couldn't possibly believe anything those ancient sick punks have to say."
"I wouldn't trust one word those guys said let alone throw them overboard the first chance I get." Tommy muttered bluntly. "It was only after I literally tapped into my dark shadows and threatened to destroy another one of their pillars in the form of Pan right in front of them. I wasn't joking when I made those threats but it was only after Ashei got desperate and begged me to let Pan go and spare his life for another day. They wanted to save Pan's life in exchange they gave their word to leave Reefside. Of course I knew there was a tradeoff and they wanted Kim's location out of this deal, but they figured I was one step ahead of them."
"Please tell me you didn't let the green dragon out and follow through with your threat bro." Jason said uneasily. "You didn't go all evil green ranger on them did you?"
"Don't worry I didn't follow through with playing executioner that night. However, as much as I wanted to end Pan because all I see whenever I'm reminded of him was the chaos he invoked as Zeltrax. He was the true puppet master behind the scenes that orchestrated everything that went down with Mesogog in Reefside five years ago. I don't know what happened in that moment of ceased fire between the Garrison and Emissary but it was the vague exchange of words that got to me."
"You know the Emissary they'll say things to confuse you and twist things around in their favor." Kat added. "Everything they do always has a motive to it."
"But yet I can sense some hesitation on both sides that night." Tommy explained. "Dalia said that anyone born within the Bloodline of Power can accomplish fleets beyond their comprehension. I honestly don't know what that means or what she rambled about in terms about forces at work beyond good and evil. She called me a rarity because an individual like me can make the agents of good and evil bend the knee to the One True Winged Lord of the Skies of the power laying dormant in me. I don't know what game they're playing at but apparently it seems that it's a tossup between myself, Kimberly or our daughter to see which one of us will set the final chapter in motion."
"As much as we hate to say it but that last part about you having the power to make good and evil "bend the knee" as they put it is true." Adam replied.
There was not a minute throughout the years that somehow Tommy or Kimberly found themselves being put on top of a pedestal. What made them so appealing for many years to the forces of good and evil and why were the ones chosen to determine the fate of the world? They were simply two individuals who knew each other since they were eleven years old that one day met at a summer camp. The rest as others will say was history afterwards for anyone who followed the storybook romance tale of Tommy Oliver and Kimberly Hart.
Thinking back to the events in the forest, Tommy couldn't help but reflect about the discreet exchange of final words between Dulcea and Dalia. He wouldn't know whether or not if they were aware he overheard them but it left an unsettling feeling inside of him. The mention of a shift unbeknownst to both sides has started to occur and the ominous possibility that this shift would ultimately seal his fate and destiny once it was revealed. Was there a price he was paying in order to restore the part of his heart that was taken from him?
"Tommy? Hey Tommy are you alright?" Jason called out snapping Tommy out of his thoughts. "Looks like you spaced out there for a moment."
"I was just thinking about Kim and stuff." Tommy said half truthfully. "Part of me is hoping there is some recollection of the Kimberly left in whatever the hell the Emissary did to her. Still, I left her out there in the middle of nowhere to fend for herself out in the desert near the old ruins of the Command Center. It was a decision based on impulse, one out of desperation because I rather have her out in the wild than back in the hands of Emissary. Everything I do, all my actions and decisions I make there is still that one fading spark of hope I cling onto everyday...the hope that somehow Kim will find her way back to me, to us, and to Amelia most of all."
"We hold no hard feelings for what you did and if it was anyone of us in your position, we do the same thing." Aisha reassured. "At least for now regardless of Kimberly's current state of mind you gave her a sense of freedom after being kept away by the Emissary for five years. Deep down, there was that part of our crane that knew that by leaving her out in Command Center ruins, you took a risk for her."
"Aisha has a point there Tommy," Rocky added. "They may have messed with Kim's psyche and mind, infused her with some sort of magic substance to bring her back to life, turned her into this deadly, unstable killing machine but she's still in there. No matter how many times they'll try to compromise the connection of the falcon and crane, it still beats and it's what is prolonging her survival. You'll find her again because that's what you always do, Tommy."
"That's funny because it was the last thing she said to me before I left her." Tommy slightly smiled. "I'll somehow find her again because it's who I am." He took a deep breath before he continued. "For every action, there is a reaction and I'm not done with the Emissary, not by a long shot. I'll take very risk out there to bring her back and it's going to start by going down beneath the surface of Angel Grove to find out what we're dealing with. We need to gear up for our next course of action guys because we're heading back behind enemy lines to plot the next part of the final chapter."
5:00 p.m
Power Chamber Ruins
She carved another tally that was etched in the ruins and rubble that occupied the isolated desert terrain. The tally came up to 10 days since she was reluctantly abandoned here away from the prying eyes and reaches of the Emissary. It has been ten days since she last saw Tommy Oliver, a name that suddenly became etched in her mind.
Seeing the remains of the sunshine starting to settle down and dim in preparation for dusk and twilight, she couldn't help but remain within the vicinity of the place that she was granted free reign and freedom. There were days she find herself just simply sitting outside all day just watching the daylight pass or glance at the barren desert terrain that stretched on for miles.
She was given all this breathing room and open ranged space to do whatever pleases her. If she wanted to, she could just wander the desert aimlessly without a care in the world. However, during her ten days of seclusion, being within these ruins and rubble brought a sense of security and safety that felt familiar to her. What was it about these ruins that compelled her to remain there for her benefit and protection?
It didn't bother her that she was still in the same clothes she obtained on her journey to Reefside, but still there was that part of her that desired for a need for cleanliness and to refreshed up. During her time in the desert, she never once thought about exploring the inside of the ruined buildings to find out what the significance of the place was to the life of Kimberly Hart and Tommy Oliver.
The picture of Tommy, Kimberly and Amelia was the only item she had in her possession as she pulled it out from her pocket and stared at it. For reasons unknown, she couldn't find herself to part ways with the photograph and the picture brought her a need of comfort in her days of self-seclusion.
Eventually, she made her way to venture inside the ruins of the building finding debris of destroyed computer consoles, control panels, and an array of highly advanced technological machinery and equipment. There was a feeling of sadness and loss the more she continued to explore the place as if she felt the familiar pang of sadness and loss Tommy felt when he brought her to these ruins.
The lack of light to explore deeper into the ruins put a sudden halt to her exploration and instead she settled with staying on what she assumed was the main area of the building. She continued lurking the remains of the Power Chamber as her hand brushed over the rubble and debris of the damaged computer consoles and terminals. She saw something flash in her mind the second she made contact with the computer consoles. "Power Rangers?" She thought. She saw an image of herself with Tommy and four other people as teenagers standing in the Power Chamber talking to an intergalactic floating head being and dressed in multicolored suits and helmets. She shook her head but she couldn't ignore what she saw.
"What was that? Is this another fragment of a life I lived before?" She asked, looking confused but intrigued.
"Can you feel it my wayward ladyship? It's the beating heart in the void calling for you to wake it up. The part of you that slumbers, the name has lingers within." A voice beckoned in her mind, one that sounded regal like, ancient and mystical. There was something about this place that felt so familiar, a beckoning voice pleading with her to wake up. It was happening again, the internal war raging inside of her head. She began panting and clutching her chest trying to contend with the mental screeching cries of the two mysterious entities beckoning her. They were birds by the sound of it: a crane and a firebird. However, in the far distance, she heard the roars of a dragon and a falcon caw trying to ease the internal struggle happening within her. She was seeing bits of Kim's memories in the Command Center: her time as the Pink Ranger. She saw herself fighting as the pink ranger, commanding first the pterodactyl, then the firebird zord. She then saw herself on Phaedos with the rest of the Rangers receiving her Ninjetti Powers as the pink crane, the Winged Lady of the Skies. She saw when Tommy received his powers as the white falcon, the Winged Lord of the Skies, figuring out the significance and bond between the two most powerful animal spirits and soulmates.
She unwillingly found herself glowing pink but once she opened her eyes, she was shock to realize what was happening. Quickly, she retracted her hand away and stepped back, a look of intensity and question in her eyes. The strange power surge she felt seconds ago inadvertently made her refresh and noticed her wardrobe was different. She found herself dressed in ninja robes, but they were different from the ones she wore as the Scarlet Sovereign. The ninja fighting robes she wore were pink with a gold medallion round crest in the middle of her chest. It had a crane on it as she touched the emblem. She felt a sense of tranquility looking at the crane emblem on her ches.
"A pink crane? It's as if I have a connection to this entity? A bond I share with another?" She said to herself as she looked around the area hoping for a reply. It was as if part of herself was slowly returning to bits and she continued to explore while marveling at the new garments she was wearing. "Am I her? I need you to answer me! Is my name Kimberly?! Who I am to you?!" There was a moment of fear and anxiety running through her but something about the name Kimberly hit a soft spot. "I feel you inside of me calling out to me. If I am Kimberly...please tell me, what is going on? What is happening to me?"
"You must wake up wayward ladyship for your heart still beats in the confines of the void." A voice said in her head. "Two sides of a coin vying for balance: the light and the shadow controlled by the one true Winged Lady of the Skies. The lost ladyship still slumbers, but yet she carries on a half-life existence bound and tethered by the threads of defilement. The ladyship cannot sustain a borrowed life that was not earned or spent for the life bond unwilling earned will expire with each thread snapped in a battle of wit and survival. The fragments to make the heir apparent of the Bloodline whole are scattered for safekeeping until "the waking." The power that lays deep in the destined soulmates, a power not taken lightly for the "faint of the heart." Be wary as the light within the tattered heart dims further into the emptiness until it ceases to shine..."
"A power of waking? What do you mean by I'm still sleeping? The name that lingers within...me?" Something about the last statement shook her, filling her thoughts with anxiety and worry. Talks about sustaining a borrowed half-life not earned or spent rattled her and she was starting to hint that somehow her existence was tied to the fate of the Emissary. Was this the cost she was paying for the state of her existence?
She made a quick hasty exit out of the ruins and found herself outside once again staring out to the wide open desert. Tommy told her that there are some places deep within the hearts and souls of people that remain in their memory. Inside, she felt that connection and the name that lingered in her. She remembered her name, but suddenly became aware of her state of existence. Now the next question was how much time did she have left before she can no longer be awaken by the one she is waiting for?
July 27th, 2009
Black Frog & Red Ape Dojo
7:00 p.m
"Hey thanks again Angela for helping us out and we're sorry for putting you on babysitting watch." Zack replied as he walked into the dojo with Angela and Malcolm. The two have gotten close in the months after Curtis' death and Angela was one of the only few civilians who knew about Zack and his friends' history as Power Rangers. She in fact was one of the only few people left in the town who suspected that weird activity was going on the minute Weyland Co started their development project for Rideau Circle.
She wasn't no superhero but she proved to be a reliable inside contact using her position in city hall as part of the city council to access public records. Angela figured that Zack and her friends haven't slowed down on their pursuit to investigate Rideau Circle in the last seven months after Curtis' death. They all met up at the dojo and it was the one place in town where she could keep a close eye on the rest of the kids.
"Looks like you guys are going on some sort of covert mission in downtown aren't you?" Angela asked the group. "I've never seen city council this worked up these last couple of months since Rideau Circle decided to set up shop in town."
"You're telling us and with the state of the city in crisis, the influence of Rideau Circle in our town will only intensify." Jason said warily.
"Well I hope you know what you people are doing." Angela explained handing them what looked like a portfolio. "Zack told me you guys were looking to head into the defunct and unused subway tunnels from the rejected subway project. You're lucky I got my hands on these plans before one of those yes men from Rideau Circle attempted to get their hands on these documents."
"Stealing blueprints and public records from city hall," Tommy commented. "Angela, we don't want to put anymore innocent civilians at risk, especially you and your son. You don't know the full story behind Rideau Circle and anyone who attempts to uncover their secrets pays the price for it. You're a good friend and we for Zack's sake we couldn't risk anything bad happening to people he cares about..."
"I know the risk because I wanted justice for what happened with Curtis and I've known all of you guys since high school." Angela continued. "We've lived in Angel Grove for a long time to know that our city is known for its share of monster attacks, alien invasions and mystical and supernatural things. The residence of this city maybe naïve and blind not to see behind the façade of Rideau Circle, but there is more to them than meets the eye."
"Which is why we're going to take them down and expose them for what they really are." Trini said.
"Yeah we should get a move on and meet up with Justin and Billy to get this plan in motion." Tommy said as the guys nodded in agreement. Aisha and Rocky said their goodbyes to Robbie and Bianca telling them to listen to Angela. Tommy and Amelia had a moment to themselves to talk and stood in the far corner of the dojo.
"You're going to that place again aren't you? The building with the bad tingling feeling?" Amelia asked worried. "Daddy, please be careful because I feel something funny about that place. I think...I think it's coming from underground but it's a funny tingling feeling that makes you do things."
"You're feeling it too aren't you? It's true kiddo." Tommy said sighing giving his daughter a hug. "I'm going to head to the building with the bad tingling feeling. Listen Amelia, I need you promise me something." He saw his daughter nod her head as he continued. "You're may feel some strange sensation going on, the tingling feeling that makes you do things like all those superheroes you watch on tv. If it happens, I need you to be brave and I need you to have courage and not be afraid. Can you be my little defender?"
"Does that mean if I get that tingling feeling again am I going to wear superpower ninja suits or costumes like you and your friends?" Amelia asked curiously as Tommy let out a slight chuckle.
"I don't think they make Power Ranger suits for most seven years olds." Tommy said smiling pulling his daughter into a hug. "Unless if it's for Halloween then yes. Look, it may get scary at times and strange things may happen, but I know you. I know you'll keep your friends and family safe and if it happens, I know you can control it. I believe in you princess and you can do anything you set your mind to. I promise you...I'll be back soon and I'll stay safe. I give you my word on that. I love you very much kiddo."
"I love you too daddy," Amelia smiled hugging back and then letting go. "Hey dad?! Kick some monster butt out there!" Tommy regrouped with his friends and then watched Kat and Jason have a moment with their children, in particular with Henry. It seemed that his godson had an eager look on his face hearing about anything involving Power Ranger business or work.
"Okay buddy we're counting on you to keep your sisters and brother safe." Jason said to his son. "Your mom and I need you to keep an eye on them for us. Can you do that for us Henry?"
"Don't worry mommy, daddy." Henry reassured his parents pulling out his makeshift slingshot he built. "I have something to keep Matt, Liv and Hazel safe from the bad guys you can trust me."
"Looks like somebody has been reading one too many superhero stories." Kat slightly chuckled ruffling her son's hair. "I'm sure you have a good aim with your trusty little slingshot there Henry."
"Our little boy, just like his parents always playing superhero," Jason replied smiling. "Hey Henry, for the record I know this is a lot to take in. This is a lot for us to ask of you being a kid and trying to make sense that sometimes your mom and I have to go out "for work" and leave you guys for hours on end. These last couple of months I know it's been rough on you kids and we want you to know that you, Matthew, Olivia and Hazel mean everything to us."
"I know that daddy and I understand about you and mommy's other job about saving the world." Henry said smiling. "It's scary thinking something bad that happen to you two and you both get hurt. It's cool that my mom and dad are Power Rangers even though I can't tell my classmates about it because it's top secret. I know that superheroes are real because my parents are the ones who keep the people of Angel Grove safe and they always save the day. You know I love you dad and mom very much right?"
"Thank you for being such a bright boy and so understanding." Kat smiled hugging her son. "Yeah, what your dad and I is dangerous at times but we do it to keep you, your sisters and brother safe. Something is happening in Angel Grove right now and your safety and protection of you kids are always our first priority. We love you guys more than anything in this world. That is the honest truth."
After Kat and Jason embraced Henry and the rest of their kids, the couple rejoined their friends leaving the children with Angela at the dojo. Taking a few steps outside, the nine veterans contacted Billy and Justin giving them the signal and teleported to the lab ready for their upcoming mission.
7:30 p.m
Dune Lion Records (Underground Lab)
Billy made one last adjustment to the minitaure drone he and Justin spent the last two weeks working on for it was the essential component for this mission. With the others retrieiving the additional blueprints they obtained from Angela, everything was falling into place. There was a mixture of anxiety, intrigue and determination to finally get to the bottom of the mysteries surrounding the Emissary.
The two resident geniuses of the group devised a well calculated plan combining elements of science along with their Ninjetti training on how to traverse through the complex network of underground tunnels underneath Angel Grove. It was as if the city itself held its own secrets away from the prying eyes of the civilians. Their expedition of the tunnels consisted of extensive surveying, monitoring abnormal geographic activity with some much assisted help from the Space Rangers.
The young Green Ninjetti Ranger put the call to his old friends to help them investigate the underground tunnel network. It was for the hope and sake to bypass security surrounding Rideau Circle after weeks of studying surveillance footage near the area. The more they ventured into the tunnels it was like travelling into a hidden city or world buried below the city.
However, during the last few days of running simulation tests inside the tunnels, there were potential risks of tunnel collapses, foundation issues with compromising any sites above top level, and overall, abnormal geological tremors that occurred at random times. Reviewing the blueprints and maps from the public records gave them an idea of the route to take while trying to map out possible exit points should they not be able to reach their destination.
Communication was also another key essential to this mission after figuring out their signal range to the lab was weak. However, thanks to Andros and Zhane's assistance and some highly advanced technology from KO35, they upgraded and enhance the communications in the lab. As the veterans made last minute preparations, the Space Rangers knew for the original group of eleven this was a personal mission, but were willing to run point being the team's eyes and ears at central command.
Determination was laced on the faces of the Rangers present, something that hasn't been the case in the last couple of months. Something was set in motion in Reefside and the ripple effect came with them to Angel Grove. It was time for them to now dig deeper and unearth more of the mystery shrouding them.
"Is everybody's mind completely ready?" Tommy said, going into leader mode. "We need to hit them hard without them knowing we're coming."
"We ran every scenario and simulation with Justin and Billy on the best possible route to bypass detection and seismic activity." Andros explained showing the map of the underground tunnels on the computer screen. "It gave our team enough time on routing our communication scanners and computers to maintain contact with you guys. Line 2 of the abandoned subway is your starting point and go north of that tunnel until you reach an interchange junction to switch on Line 1 or 3. You'll hang right and go east down the tunnel that is Line 1 which will place you right in Troika, right underneath Rideau Circle. Apparently that line was never completed and it stops there."
"So this route we're showing you is your best way to travel." Carlos continued. "TJ, Cassie and I will be on the streets keeping the communication range in tact. The tunnels themselves are about 1.5 miles above the street level and they lead to emergency access points to some of the sewer tunnels that run throughout the city. We marked them on the map should you need a quick exit out."
"Thanks for mapping out the route for us guys, but we'll see to it to follow the path you charted to the end of the line." Tommy said, studying the schematics memorizing it to the latter. He then looked to Justin and Billy for one last inquiry. "You said the tunnel, line 1 ends right in the heart of Troika, right underneath Rideau Circle."
"Yeah about that particular tunnel I think this is why the subway project in Angel Grove was discarded years ago." Billy explained rubbing his glasses as he took out the small video chip from the camera installed on the drone. He inserted it into a hard drive putting the video image on screen. "This was from an excavation we ran the day before Hazel's birthday when we ran a pilot test on the drone's capabilities. Justin piloted the drone approximately 300 yards away from where tunnel Line 1 ends. Ashley and Andros ran some geological data about the integrity and seismic activity emitting from that area."
"You guys wouldn't believe what the drone recorded because this is where we believe is the source of what the Emissary is after." Justin replied as the Rangers watched the footage. The image was dark due to the lack of light but the night vision mode the two installed on the drone to give a somewhat clear image. What they saw looked like a large circular hole at the end of the tunnel as the image continued to shown the drone being piloted to examine the suspected hole.
"Oh shit, is that a hole?" Kat asked in awe and in disbelief. "Was that dug just recently?"
"So those bastards built the building as a cover up to hide Mr. Big Hole they dug in our city?" Rocky replied sarcastically.
"It maybe a sick hunch but I think the Emissary were digging this hole for a pretty long time before they initiated their game plan." Tommy said. "So we know how to get to the big hole in question. We know why they dug it because that guys is our mission to make sure what lies below it doesn't get unearthed. How...far were you able to get the drone down that hole?"
"We couldn't get a proper read on it but we only got an initial estimate and signature read." Ashley added. "You're looking at about 40 stories below the street level. Whatever is down that giant hole has a power signature we cannot get a proper read on. We had to pull the drone out after it went 8 feet down the hole which means in order to get a proper measurement..."
"...We either have to get closer to the source or...we descend down to the bottom of it." Tommy concluded studying the video footage.
The more he viewed the footage, he felt this sensation running through him as it whatever was laying at the bottom of the hole was beckoning him. There were some discussions being brought up about possible theories of what was down the hole and how long the Emissary has known. They were warnings from the Space Rangers of possible drawbacks if the original veterans attempted to access the unknown power signature being admitted without any proper data collected.
"Even if you guys get inside, there is a chance we'll lose contact with you," Andros warned them. "Communication and visual contact was being disrupted during the last simulation we ran and whatever is down there, it's like it has a mind of its own. There is inconclusive reading of positive or negative energy readings, it's like it's just pure power..." The leader of the Space Rangers found himself cut off by the one of the greatest Rangers of all time. Something told the Red Space Ranger that the legendary Tommy Oliver made his choice, and with his own conviction was sticking to it.
"...It's why the Emissary went through four thousand years of plotting and planning their gameplan for this." Tommy said firmly, but with a tone of determination and understanding. "Whatever is down there represents a remnant of the greatest power in the universe, The Great Power itself. It's not going to make a difference if we attempt to study or gather more data but one thing I know for sure is this. One way or another...we're going down that hole knowing the risk of what awaits us beneath the depths of Angel Grove. They bide their time for far too long, well not us, not anymore because we'll go straight to them, right at the source of all things."