(Author's Notes: Hey everyone here's Chapter 46 & I hope you all continue to keep the reviews coming. In this chapter, Tommy discovers the hidden abilities within him have its drawbacks after testing them in uncharted waters forcing the Rangers to travel into unknown territories to help stabilize their friend's unpredictable powers.)
Chapter 46: The Constant Cry from Afar
August 3rd, 2009
Oliver Residence
Reefside, CA
6:00 p.m
By the start of the beginning of August, Tommy and Amelia were back home in Reefside after their memorable visit to Angel Grove. Much to the relief of the other original Rangers, they were thrilled that their white falcon was able to retrieve his little defender safe and unharmed. Unfortunately, once Tommy revealed to his friends about finding his daughter with Kimberly at his uncle's cabin, they felt empathy towards their emotionally conflicted leader once again forced to keep his pink princess beyond arm's reach.
Still, it surprised everyone to learned that in the aftermath of Thea's death by Kimberly's hands, she ended up retreating to his uncle's cabin with their daughter. It was by mere luck or a miracle that no one didn't know his family's location and it stunned Tommy that part of her remembered the cabin. Once he returned back to his house, Tommy went to pull out his old photographs from his many visits to the cabin with each picture serving him as a reminder of a time that seemed long ago.
That was where the other Rangers found him in the living room when they arrived later on in the evening for the cookout. They saw Tommy reminiscing with his daughter about memories from long ago at the cabin telling Amelia stories behind each picture. Once Tommy realized that he and his daughter had company over, the duo put the pictures aside and helped everyone get ready for the cookout.
The cookout also served as the start of the week long visit for the original Rangers to return the favor to Tommy and stay for awhile by hanging out in Tommy's neck of the woods as they called it. However, their week long stay also commemorated almost one year to the date the Original Rangers reunited with their prodigal falcon.
Soon, the realization hit them reflecting back on the events that went down in Boston nearly one year ago was what sparked their inadvertent adventure in the ongoing war between the Emissary and Garrison. It was almost one year ago to the day Tommy reluctantly, but brave hearted made the fateful decision to return to the frontlines to take on an adversary that loomed behind the scenes for nearly two decades in his life.
After almost a year, Tommy wondered if he had enough time to earn his friends' forgiveness for abruptly abandoning them for four years after Kimberly's faux death? He wondered if he deserved any of their friendships after everything he put them through in his absence. He admit he wasn't in a good place for four years during his time of self-exile, self-discovery and reflection while trying to be a good father to Amelia. But it didn't mean that his friends weren't forgotten during the time he was away.
Sometimes he questioned why they willingly welcomed him back with open arms after what he put them through. Why did they willingly follow him back onto the frontlines when they were getting on with their lives in their absence? His ten best friends reassured him for almost an entire year that despite the trials and tribulations, their friendships with one another will never change and it was for Kimberly's sake they kept an eye on her precious white falcon and daughter.
Once everyone began getting the evening's festivities going, the Oliver household became lively as the original Rangers were later joined later on by Hayley and the Dino Thunder Rangers who accepted an invite from their former mentor and teacher. Also, it provided both teams to share the latest updates about the latest events happening in both Angel Grove and Reefside. It was going to be more than just an evening of reminiscing but also an evening of feedback and the status of the past year's events.
"I can't believe it's been almost a year to the day you guys found me in Boston," Tommy said. "It wasn't the ideal reunion I had in mind with my friends after four years apart from you guys. An assassination attempt on Andrew Hartford & an impromptu battle in the Boston Plaza Hotel with the Emissary aside, this past year made me realize just how much your friendships mean to me, all of you."
"Yeah watching your best friend take out a group of ninjas while wearing a disguise is an uncanny way to reunite," Jason slightly chuckled. "Bro, were you seriously trying to pull a Daredevil parody on me there?"
"Maybe I was trying to put my hidden vigilante skills to the test there last year." Tommy said letting out a slight smile at Jason's small joke. "Still, the circumstances brought me back into the fold and nearly one year later, here we are. We're still fighting this ongoing mission against the Emissary."
"Who knew that it was by coincidence we got roped back into action after semi-retirement was due to the destruction of the Wind Ninja Academy?" Kira stated.
"Especially with each one of them showing up because Sensei Watanabe's dying declaration was a six centuries old secret behind the ninja school." Adam replied.
"I spent nearly two decades trying to debunk any claims to Quinn's radical campfire stories. There were times I wonder if that man got insane or delusional over the years with everything he put us through. When we were at that sanctum part of me asked if my association with the Garrison was destined to happen." Tommy said. "The only person I was able to confide in about anything involving Quinn was Kim because she and I had a long history with him."
"There is no way I can apologize for how his actions impacted us directly or indirectly." Tommy continued. "Or I can't apologize for Kimberly's current state or her actions because of something I wasn't able to prevent five years ago. A year is going to pass soon and the current progress we have to show is a multitude of civilian casualties, a truckload of hidden secrets by the ones who were responsible for our powers or finding out we've been deceived about the truth about our crane. It's hard to take a pick at which one of these circumstances hurts the most but this is the reality of what being on the frontlines of a battlefield is about."
"This will sound like a broken record telling you this but it wasn't your fault or Kimberly's for everything you two experienced for two decades." Kat reassured. "There are some circumstances that happen by coincidence and some that are fated and destined by the powers that be."
"Look man, don't be hard on yourself." Rocky replied. "The last thing we need is for our fearless leader to throw himself another guilt trip pity party. You can't let yourself be buried under the weight the world. Let yourself divide the burden and grief you're carrying because we want to be there for you and Amelia."
"We're all in the same vote here Tommy," Aisha said. "We all want the same thing that you and your daughter have been trying to get back for almost a year."
"And still a year later, we haven't gotten closer to our goal." Tommy said. "What have we dealt with during the past year with our battle with the Emissary? We prevented an assassination attempt on the former mentor of the Operation Overdrive team; sent another Ranger team into hiding with some reluctant allies; discovered a senior partner lawyer's legacy of six generations of family as members of the Garrison; Curtis' suicide; a bunch of dead Garrison agents and the list goes on."
"However, despite it all the consolation we all get out of this is knowing that Kim is alive or...somewhat alive however you want to call it." Tommy continued taking a deep breath and resuming. "I know this past year we had our disagreements on how we handle the revelation of our pink crane's current state of existence. We're in another bind we know that every time we knockdown another pillar of the Emissary. We took out two of them already, we only got five more left but it's going to get more complex and chaotic. All the secrets, legends, myths and tall tales are coming to life right before our eyes. All we can do is ready ourselves for what is in store for us."
"We can expect the Emissary will be more volatile and malicious after Kim mercilessly executed Dalia's sister Thea right in front of them." Jason said. "And they'll do everything in their power to deal with their defective weapon. After everything they went through to bring her back to life, question comes how desperate will they be?"
"Let's also not forget about the Garrison to keep in mind too." Justin added, wanting to include another piece of vital intel. "Roxas willingly tipped us off about the Garrison's initial plans to also retrieve Kim from the Emissary's hands. Unless Quinn has a plan and is not clueing us in on it."
"Do you think Quinn is still trustworthy Dr. O?" Trent asked. "Even if you beat the pulp out of the guy to make him cooperate he'll still find a way to screw us over."
"I'll deal with that when it comes down that road." Tommy said. "I can't anticipate what is going on in Kim's mind but the longer she remains in her current state of existence there is this internal struggle that continues within her."
"So this whole balance of shadow and light within the Ninjetti and stuff," Hayley inquired. "Everything we found out five years ago about the Scarlet Sovereign, the war between the Garrison and Emissary?"
"You can't forget that the Emissary were once ex-communed members of the Ninjetti Order exiled by the Elders from Pheados." Tommy said summarizing what they learned during the past year. "It was by the decree of the master warriors elders they were deemed unworthy of possessing the Great Power for their malicious intentions all for a ploy of immortality and eternal youth. Those heretics eventually will become heralds and underlings to some of our greatest adversaries we faced during our tenure as Power Rangers. When all this was happening this secret war that lasted four thousand years lurked beneath the surface being fought from behind the scenes."
"It was probably after Zordon's purification of the United Alliance of Evil, the secret war behind the scenes got brought out in the open." Billy said as the others nodded.
"Yeah and both sides have suffered casualties along the way." Tommy replied. "How this final chapter gets written up is all up to chance. Yes, I admit I have done some questionable things in the name of protecting my family and friends, but consequences be damned. These factions will go to desperate lengths to maintain their authority and power at the cost of our planet. They're going to try to make us see the point of this war from their perspectives."
"Yeah and we learned nearly a year ago the lengths these people will go to tear one another." Rocky said.
"And that is why it's going to stop once and for all, no matter what lengths and lines we have to cross." Tommy stated firmly addressing the group. "These people have spent four thousand years at each other's throats at the expense of joining others to fight someone else's war. Whatever our next move is, from hear on out all is fair game."
9:30 p.m
By the time all the food and dishes were cleaned up and put away, Tommy helped the others settle in for the night. He went to check on Amelia hoping to find his daughter helping the other kids get ready for bed. Instead, Tommy saw that his daughter wasn't in her room and surprisingly found Amelia in his room going through his stuff.
Surprisingly, Tommy found his little girl holding a familiar hardcover book from his shelf, "Sonnets from the Portuguese." The last time he recalled opening that book was the night of the reception after Kim's funeral. The book that was left inside for five years remained on the same page as he saw Amelia turn the page to the Number 43 sonnet.
Curiosity got the better of him watching his seven year old daughter try to make sense of literature way beyond her years. Yet, did Amelia know the significance of what that poem meant to her parents? There were words advanced for the child's vocabulary but despite the olden and classic language, Amelia tried to read it out loud.
"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height," Amelia slowly read out loud trying to pronounce each word to the best of the her reading ability. " My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight. For the ends of being and ideal grace. I love thee to the level of everyday's. Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight..."
Tommy saw Amelia struggling to finish the rest of the poem as some of the words were difficult to pronounce. It was rare for him to memorize certain works of literature with his faulty and forgetful memory. But this particular piece of work remained etched into his heart and memory.
Immediately, he made his presence known to his little girl as she looked up as the two smiled at each other. Amelia kept the book open in her lap as he took a seat next to his daughter on the bed.
"...I love thee freely, as men strive for right. I love thee purely, as they turn from praise. I love thee with the passion put to use," Tommy continued reciting every word of the poem word for word to his daughter. "In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith. I love thee with a love I seemed to lose. With my lost saints,—I love thee with the breath. Smiles, tears, of all my life!—and, if God choose. I shall but love thee better after death..."
Once he finished reciting the sonnet, Amelia stared at her father in awe and let out a genuine smile as she closed the book and looked up. Then she let out a small laugh setting the book aside.
"You know that is probably a little bit too old for you to read," Tommy playfully scolded. "Especially for a little girl your age and plus it is way past your bedtime. So, do you want to tell daddy what got my little princess curious to go through his stuff tonight? If you wanted me to read you a bedtime story I would have been more than happy to read you one, Amy. So...what got you into a sonnet that was written a very, long time ago?"
"It sounded nice and I like how you read it without looking at the book." Amelia said chuckling. "I knew a few words but then it started talking very funny English I couldn't make sense of. I did really wanted to hear more of it daddy and I think it meant something to you. I feel it because of how you spoke when you said it out loud."
"That is definitely the truth sweetie that this is probably the only poem daddy remembers despite his faulty memory." Tommy said. "It's a very special poem for me."
"Does it have to do with mommy?" Amelia asked directly. "Dad, I know mommy is acting funny and I worry that she may get hurt being out there alone. The wild tingling feelings inside of her are making her act weird but I know she won't hurt us. However, those bad people want to hurt her because she did something awful to them."
"I know you worry about her and so do I more than ever." Tommy replied. "Did you know that poem your mommy read it to me the day we got married seven years ago? It was the most happiness day of our lives because we loved each other very much. Then a few months later, you were born and those were the best moments of our lives because it was when we finally became a family."
"Then why does that weird tingling feeling keep mommy from coming home to us?" Amelia asked.
"I wish I knew but it doesn't mean that your mom is not here." Tommy said. "We kept her alive all this time because we loved her very much. No matter where she went somehow there was a part of her that couldn't forget you and me, kiddo. Your mom is also fighting too whatever it is that is happening to her but we got to be strong."
"Because we have to for mommy." Amelia said. "You are right about mommy that she is very pretty and she is like what you said in your pictures. But it feels like mom lost something very important to her. Daddy, if we do make mom feel better of her tingling feelings what will happen to her?"
"What do you mean sweetie?" Tommy asked.
"Is...is she going to go away again like she did before?" Amelia asked curiously. "Is that why she ran away because of the tingling feeling inside of her? Why did those bad people take mommy away from us for a long time? They made her do bad things and now they want to do bad things to our family too."
"Listen to me kiddo we're going to fix mommy that I swear to you on my life and my love for you and your mother." Tommy said firmly looking at his daughter. "Those bad people kept your mom away from us for five years because they wanted her for their evil plans. Yet, no matter what they did to her there was a part of your mom that kept fighting and she is right this moment. We need to do our part to keep on fighting for her so we can finally have our Winged Lady of the Skies home where she belongs."
Somewhere Outside of Angel Grove
Running was the only thing she knew what to do and her battle instincts were kicking in. Fealty to the Emissary, Garrison or whatever faction existed was something irrelevant to her these days. It was difficult to distinguish friend from foe or allies from adversaries. All she knew was that whoever stood in her way were obstacles, except for two individuals that her tattered subconscious mind couldn't forget.
Yet, she remained on the move constantly and everyday it was a fight for survival. The days on the road, many passengers and travelers assumed she was a drifter or a hitchhiker who passed by her while on the run. At nights, she found herself resting out in the wilderness or every once in awhile breaking into RV & Trailer dealerships she came by. In terms of essentials, she break into stores to "borrow" items such as food and clothing for her travels.
Currently this time Kimberly found herself camping out in the middle of the woods under the starry night sky miles away from civilization. Her thoughts dwelled on Tommy and Amelia as she continued to stare into the campfire. Although it was silent the internal battle within her subconscious continued to rage on. The unknown force that beckoned her in the distance kept calling out to her and to them. Deep down, there was a connection that kept their fates intertwined and for reasons she couldn't explain hoped that the bond the tied them wouldn't sever. It was as if remnants of the life she knew once upon a time continued to work its way back into her mind.
However, at the same time she became aware of her current state of existence. Two sides of the same coin that couldn't coincide with one another, battling for either control or coexistence to restore something once lost. Part of her knew she is Kimberly Hart-Oliver and part of her also existed as the Scarlet Sovereign. Looking around the impromptu campsite she set up she disregarded the lifeless bodies of the adversaries that pursued her earlier on in the evening.
She focused on her silent task as she found herself creating a makeshift bow and arrow from materials she had procured. It felt natural holding the bow and arrow like it was a natural weapon of choice in her previous life looking at the finished results. Yet, she had come to realize being haunted by her current status of a half-life existence and understanding that her pursuit to unbind herself from the tethers that hold her back come with a price.
Moments later, her senses went on high alert when she heard the sound of a twig snapping. In a quick and swift move, she instantly drew her makeshift bow and pointed it directly at her unexpected guest. Her eyes were locked on ready to unleash the arrow but the cold and listless glare she continued to give at her perpetrator told him that the unhinged fire within her was blazing.
"That bloody trail of breadcrumbs you're leaving dearie is left to the imagination." Pan stated holding his hands up. "Yet, you are a combustible little firecracker and it looks like your time on Tortuga has paid off."
"Take one more step and I'll make sure to aim this arrow point blank at a spot it will stick." She stated coldly. "You know what I'm capable of doing don't you, Pan?"
"Which is why no one knows where I am and you made sure no one follow your trail after observing the carnage you left in your wake." Pan said firmly. "We have bestowed upon you power and strength beyond anything the likes this world has see. We have trained and your combat skills has exceeded beyond our expectations. Unfortunately, we may have trained too well to the point that you cannot comprehend the power you possess within you, my dear."
"Power is power whatever way you spin it." Kimberly stated. "Yet, it looks like you're just another obstacle looking to strip it from me. Garrison, Emissary, Ninjetti, Power Rangers it doesn't matter what side you fight on or fight for. The lines of good and evil are blurred and that line in the sand fades. Both sides of the coin want those with power to yield and bend the knee to those who claim dominion. Tell me, do I look like someone who will yield or bend the knee?"
"Which is why both factions are looking to claim a price on your head for your actions." Pan warned. "What you did to Thea has left the Emissary in a more vulnerable position than we have faced. The fact that her remaining lifespan was mercilessly stripped by the Scarlet Sovereign is an unspeakable act. The remaining pillars demand justice for what was done to Thea and Dalia is looking for retribution. What if that retribution Dalia demands will be paid for by something or someone that is of great value to you? I know that connection to the life you knew as Kimberly Hart-Oliver cannot be severed and they are the ties that still bound you to this half-life existence of yours."
"What are you implying? You talk as if there are limitations to the power I possess well there isn't." She snapped in a threatening manner. "I made it very clear that there are no boundaries or limitations to what I can do. Don't think you can draw a line in the sand for me to cross because I'm not someone who will bend or yield. I do not know what is happening to me but it makes me feel liberated the more I break the chains that tether me to this...state of existence. If I were you, I suggest you step out of my way and let me be if you want to keep your head in tact."
There was no way Pan wanted to relinquish the Emissary's weapon to her own impulsions or whirlwind whims. It was obvious that with each of their deaths she was becoming more combustible and untamable. The lust for power, violence and her survival instincts were running rampant and what Thea predicted upon her demise was emerging and imploding at a rapid rate. At this point, it didn't matter which side was coming for her, everyone was fair game to her.
"...And what of the little heir apparent of the Bloodline of Power?" Pan suddenly revealed cryptically. "What of the Winged Lord of the Skies, the white falcon? He still strives to reclaim his wayward lost ladyship in order to restore the kingdom him and his lady are destined to rule. On the contrary, you my dearie find yourself in peculiar position for claimant and power. You are a ladyship, posed to take the crown of both the light and shadow. Two kingdoms laying at your feet, but yet it needs a ruler to oversee it. Do you not see the potential of all of this, my lady?"
"Do you think that matters to me? I can see the desires of the Emissary knowing how essential young Amelia Oliver is to maintain your claimant and dominion. After all, she is in fact the living embodiment of The Great Power. Isn't that why everyone is desperate to unearth what lies beneath Angel Grove City? I'm no fool and whatever power stirs inside that little girl will not yield. It's raw, untrained and unlimited power and the powers that be will not relinquish it to the whims and desires of those who seek it, unless otherwise. If I were you...I watch my back Pan and you can tell the other pillars the exact same thing. Either way, both sides should keep a close eye for things to come."
"And if I were you, my lady I would offer that same advice for someone who thinks they're without fear or limits." Pan stated firmly warning her. "You're walking an unsteady path here my dear and I wouldn't dare bite the hand that gave you everything on a silver platter. You do remember everything has its limits, including you, my lady. Time is of the essence and one cannot sustain a half-life existence if the parts of oneself remains fragmented and splintered and cannot be whole. Let me remind you of your predicament, my sovereign due to our questionable judgment. The foundation of the Emissary is in your hands and your fate is in ours..."
"...Looks like that sounds like a threat to me doesn't it, Pan?" She snapped in a threatening manner drawing her bow. "Nothing will stop from seeking what I desire and for the first time I feel liberated. I feel unyielding and as I stated, you don't want to test me because I will unleash that untamed fire many have tried to silence for so long. Maybe you people should bow and bend the knee to me instead of me yielding my power to those who intend to restrain my limits."
Unfortunately, Pan didn't have time to react when he suddenly felt a swift and fierce superhuman fist connect with his face. It caused him to black out the moment he was sent flying into a tree and felt a bone chilling snap to his neck. Kimberly stared blankly after she quickly sent Pan flying into the tree causing the Pillar of the Emissary to inadvertently break his neck. She had no intention of killing him yet, but at least it will keep him indisposed for the next couple of hours.
She did it for the mere fact to give her time to cover her tracks knowing that the Emissary were hellbent on tracking her. At the same time she couldn't take the risk with the Garrison too knowing that both factions are monitoring her every move. However, her current state of existence gave her enough strength and training on how to counteract anyone who stood in her way. Disappearing once again in the cover of the deep night, Kimberly continued on foot leaving Pan unconscious and hoping to quell the stirring of the beckoning unknown force that continued to call to her.
August 5th, 2009
11:00 a.m
Hayley's Cyberspace
Reefside, CA
The four former students of Dr. Tommy Oliver walked into Hayley's establishment a few days later but found the technical genius wasn't alone. Apparently she was in the company of the other two geniuses from the original veteran core Ranger group, Justin and Billy. They headed directly to the back room away from customers based on the red-haired woman's instructions upon their arrival.
What's more, they were asked to bring with them their Dino Gems for reasons beyond their understanding as they found the trio working away. The four found the trio of technical geniuses reviewing the video footage the original veterans captured from their venture underneath Rideau Circle. They looked to get Hayley's analysis of their findings hoping the former MIT graduate may add some insight.
When they pulled up some CCTV footage captured outside of Rideau Circle, the four saw a familiar looking stone box being loaded on screen. It caught Hayley's attention as she said once the Dino Thunder Rangers arrived, "So this image was video stamped two days ago outside of Rideau Circle?"
"My friend Nico forwarded the image to me and staked out the area around Rideau Circle." Justin explained. "It was stamped that this was captured two days ago of a delivery truck pulling out of the loading bay in the building. Our intel back in Angel Grove says that the sarcophagus is no longer inside the building."
"Is that CCTV footage outside of Rideau Circle in Angel Grove you're all viewing?" Ethan asked. "That box those guys loaded in that truck, is that the sarcophagus?"
"Yes Ethan that is the same sarcophagus you guys encountered five years ago. The same one that was used to bleed out those missing teens you guys found in that hidden room at Reefside High School." Hayley said. "We didn't know where that thing went after the final battle with Mesogog but it seemed it served its purpose according to testimonies by Tommy and the others. They found it inside a secret lair of the Emissary's beneath the city of Angel Grove."
"They used it on Kimberly didn't they? To bring Dr. O's wife back to life after the last battle?" Kira said watching as the trio reluctantly nodded, much to their dismay.
"How is that possible? We thought after Kimberly's "death" they weren't able to use the sarcophagus for their resurrection plans." Connor argued. "And there was no way our Dino Gems could have powered up that thing once we drained the last of the energy from it."
"Unfortunately they had a loophole and the mystical genetic coding was already embedded into the thing." Hayley explained. "Also, we also reviewed the lab reports from five years back that Dana Mitchell conducted at the hospital. There was a compound mystical mixture that was read in those kidnapped teenager's bloodwork. Whatever pathogen was in their blood systems, it was enough to activate it, plus the exposure to the Dino Gems did the trick."
"However, based on Tommy's memories saw after seeing that thing, he got full knowledge of how and what it did to Kimberly." Billy said, sighing with regret. The last thing he wanted was for this team of Rangers to feel that they inadvertently contributed to what became of their mentor's true love. "Guys, don't think that you had some hand in this and don't for one minute think you inadvertently contributed to this."
"But when Dr. O found those gems on that island over six years ago, they were right by the sarcophagus." Trent replied. "It bonded with us and then suddenly all that stuff with Mesogog and the Emissary happened. Now these guys are back and are after Dr. O's daughter for what?"
The trio knew that this young team of Rangers had a soft spot for Tommy and Kimberly, especially for Amelia. It went beyond a mentorship role, but during their time they became like a second family to them. However, after learning the truth behind what became of the Pink Ranger, it made them determine to uphold their silent promise they made to Tommy. No matter what, they were going to help Tommy and the other Rangers put the Emissary down once and for all and end this war.
"Dr. Oliver has been through a lot these last five years and it's understandable. He is carrying a heavy fate and destiny that he is burdened with and this thing with the Garrison and Emissary have taken him beyond his limits." Kira said. "The man spent five years mourning the loss of his wife and wishing somehow she come back."
"But in a cruel twist of wishful thinking, his wish came true but not how he wanted it to." Connor said. "Whatever they did to Kimberly didn't really work completely in the Emissary's favor and now she's running on borrowed time. We saw this fight with them five years ago, it's best to say for Amelia and Dr. O's sake, we help them finish it."
"You're all fully aware and keeping track of what is happening. Two of the seven pillars of the Emissary have been destroyed and somehow those jokers have cast a spell that links their remaining lifespans to Kimberly's. Although it will make her strong and help her regain memories of her life before, she's still running on a half-life." Billy said.
"Technically even if all of us succeeds in wiping out the Emissary once and for all, there's a chance Dr. O will lose his wife all over again?" Kira asked knowing that the trio of geniuses didn't want to express the possible outcome. However, the young Yellow Dino Thunder Ranger had a feeling a plan was formulating, despite it being all theory.
"Unless you wouldn't have asked us here unless you people came up with a plan based on theories and hunches?" Trent asked as he clutched his Dino Gem. "The fact you coincidently mentioned that sarcophagus and our Dino Gems means there is something in the works and you need our help to execute it. What do you need us to do?"
"Word on the street is that the Emissary have brought the stone sarcophagus back to Reefside and your Dino Gems are somehow connected to it." Hayley informed them throwing down the gauntlet. "Your gems somehow have the mystical encoding and compounds that is part of the substance that resurrected Kimberly. We need you to track down the sarcophagus to retrieve the mystical compound coding in it because it maybe our key to pull off an impossible fleet."
"And what impossible fleet is that?" The Dino Rangers asked curiously. "Whatever it is then we'll help to change Dr. O and Kimberly's fate once and for all."
"A way to finally our Winged Lady of the Skies back." Justin and Billy stated firmly. "The future of the last Ninjetti Kingdom and the Bloodline of Power is put on finally laying to rest this war between the Garrison and the Emissary. We have a fealty and oath to serve our Winged Lord of the Skies, the white falcon to safeguard his dominion and claimant. He has longed to be reunited with his ladyship for the sake of their kingdom, their daughter, their future and the fate of our planet."
2:00 p.m
The Oliver Residence
"Hey don't hold me responsible if your godson inadvertently hits his godfather below the belt." Jason said. "At least it's only one out of my four kids doing this."
Jason followed Tommy outside into the backyard once the others finished cleaning up the dishes and putting the leftover food away from lunchtime. The only ones absent were Billy and Justin who were with Hayley at her shop since the early morning. The kids were waiting outside as the rest of the adults decided to lounge in the patio furniture that was out during the summer season.
"Don't worry about me bro, beside I know how to keep myself protected from any mishaps." Tommy said holding the a bundle of foam sticks in a cargo net. "And besides I came prepared. Why do you think we're giving the kids foam sticks instead of wood?"
"Yeah that's to make sure Henry doesn't go around poking the others in the eye." they heard Kat call out sitting on the sectional patio sofa chair with the twins. "Besides, there is no way we were letting Matt and Liv participate."
"Also make sure those foam sticks are child proof." Rocky playfully scolded. "Besides, Aisha and I still are getting visits from Robbie and Bianca's social worker for updates."
"I invite you guys to vacation for free at my house and you have to hound me on my child safety skills?" Tommy mocked jokingly with his friends. "Mind you all, I'm paying for all the food you guys have in my fridge and provided free lodging without pay. My property is like Fort Knox I can assure you guys the little troops are safe."
"However, I think it's best you guys show the kids first a little demo?" Trini suggested as the others encouraged to see it.
Tommy handed a pair of sticks to Jason and another to Rocky to help him put a little demonstration show for the kids. The others learned how highly skilled and trained Tommy was when it came to sparring. After all, it was something that naturally came to him since he was eleven and the only other person that could match to par with him was Kim. It brought back memories from five years ago when he and his wife first gave glimpses of their hidden past together long before their Ranger tenure.
"Okay buddy we're ready!" Rocky starts breathing heavily while Tommy is exclaiming as they begin a quick demonstration as the others watched. Both guys pauses for a moment and puts their arms down to the side.
"What rules the body?" Tommy asked them.
"My mind controls my body." Jason and Rocky both respond and starts grunting and then proceeds to continue their attacks with the wooden sticks. Tommy tosses his sticks at Jason as he dodges them and Tommy does a quick tuck and roll recovery to retrieve his sticks.
"Next question: what's your strongest weapon?" He asks this time to his friends pausing for a moment.
"My body is my strongest weapon at my disposal." They answers as they resumes they sparring match. This time they are sparring as they are attacking each other using the sticks as they collide and clank against each other. Tommy alternates between both Jason and Rocky with sharp, quicken and heightened reflexes impressing everyone.
"Connection, mind, body? What's the answer?" Tommy asked. "How is it all controlled?"
"The mind controls the body, the body controls our enemies, our enemies control jack by the time we're done with them." Rocky replies with every strike.
"However, the mind and body are one half of the connection. One must have heart and soul to drive the fighting spirit within and the connection is whole." Jason answers.
"The four main elements of the connection. Fighting is just the start. You have to control your feelings, your deep down inside feelings." Tommy explained as the others watched in awe of what they witness. "Your emotions will drive you and enhance your focus. They act as your motivation, your guide to stay the course and maintain the connection to keep it all in tact."
"How do we do that?" Jason questioned addressing both the kids and the others.
"How do we keep the connection going?" Rocky replied.
"Meditate on your feelings, channel them into positive energy." Tommy answered as the trio dropped their sticks at the same time. "The mind, body, heart and soul are all connected as one. They power the fighting spirit and our emotions channel our inner feelings and thoughts. It is the focus of our concentration on the battlefield. Open yourself up to it learn it, make you way stronger, more focused. Even heal your wounds faster: the physical, mental and emotional wounds."
"The connection keeps us in control. Without the connection, the unhinged fire burns within us. Find the focus and concentration to keep the foundations of our connection balanced: the mind, body, heart and soul." Tommy continued as they stopped and turned to the kids. The children stared in awe due to being impressed by their fighting skills, never realizing closely just how seasoned the adults were. "It's more than just the body being the strength. It's also about our emotions and the drive of the will and fighting spirit: heart and soul. Can one fight with heart and soul along with the connection of the mind and body? That is something to think about and..."
"Tommy, is everything alright bro?" Jason asked as he noticed his best friend stumbling for a bit before collapsing on his knees. Amelia immediately got up watching Jason and Rocky trying to help Tommy regain his balance. However, the second they made physical contact with the their friend, they got a glimpse of what was going on.
"What the heck is happening to him? What just happened?!" Rocky asked as Kat and the others rushed over to move the kids away from the scene. The next thing that occurred was seeing Tommy let out a scream of agony and feel a surge of power course through him. Only this time, the others felt it too. "Tommy?! Tommy are you okay?!"
Inside Tommy's Mind
Tommy found himself wandering the confines of his personal spirit world again. This time, he was back at the estate lake house only to hear be greeted by commotion, loud screeching and the panicking voices of Shalimar and Brennan. He desperately attempted to seek Kimberly's presence inside the house, but something felt off. He heard the contested cries of the falcon, the crane, the green dragon and a rage filled firebird through the halls of the house.
He looked at the door down the hall that kept continuously banging as it got louder and louder the closer he approached. Tommy felt what it was and wondered if his presence was causing the restlessness that disturbed the supposed tranquility. "What is that sound? That unseen force from deep in the void, it calls out in the distance." He found himself wandering an unknown corridor that he wasn't familiar with, but the presence he felt continued to lure him further down the mystery hallway. This trip into the spirit world felt a bit different the closer he approached the banging door but halted before he could turn the handle. "That presence that lies beyond this door..."
"If I were you I think twice before venturing inside." A voice said but upon hearing it a chill was sent up Tommy's spine recognizing it. "You never know what lies beyond that door, Tommy." To his dismay, he looked up to what looked like a manifestation of Dragon in the form of the Evil Green Ranger.
"You?! Did you lure me inside this place?!" Tommy asked. "What's happening to me? Where am I?"
"What kind of question is that? The Winged Lord of the Skies, the Lord with the traversing heart. Yet, he is still oblivious to the true power that beats within him." Dragon informed in a mocking tone, still in the form of the green ranger. "Another labyrinth to add on. Seriously pal, we should get paid overtime for this."
"I'm here again aren't I? In the spirit world or the one I created?" Tommy asked as the banging got louder. "Why does it look different? Where's Kimberly?! Where are Brennan and Shalimar? What is going on?"
"You're traversing again though you don't realize you have done this many times over the years." Dragon said as he leaned against the wall. "Part of you don't realize that you have been making this trip time and time again. Unfortunately there is an imbalance settling in if you take that plunge again."
"The power that lays sleeping within me? Did I use it to traverse beyond the spirit world?" Tommy questioned, but before he could answer he felt a familiar presence that laid beyond the door. Moments later, he heard a loud screech of an angry firebird inside. He also heard the cries of the falcon and crane trying to quell it along with the cries of a woman knowing that voice too well.
"KIMBERLY!?" He tried to barge inside but unexpectedly found himself stopped by Dragon. "What the hell are you doing?! Let me go in there!"
"Unfortunately, my orders came from your wayward ladyship to protect this point of entry." He said firmly. "I maybe the shadow of represents the other side of your coin Tommy but still my connection remains kindred to that of our tattered lady. I know what you're doing trying to restore the tattered and fragments of the heart and soul of our human mate. However, it remains splintered lingering a half-life existence between here and beyond the void. You may have done everything in your power to preserve the fragments of your ladyship's tattered heart and soul, but that one will not yield."
"It will to me because I can make it bend the knee to its lordship." Tommy said. "I made you submit to me long ago, Dragon. I can sure try to reach the real Scarlet Sovereign, the Firebird to yield. I can find my way back because I've made this trip before, haven't I?" He nodded and reluctantly stepped aside.
"Now you're getting to understand the true core of what is waking up inside of you."Dragon said. "But tapping into the true core of your power has its consequences should it be misused one too many times. Even those with the strongest will and heart knows its boundaries and where that line in the sand is drawn. You've been advised many times about this reaching for the beating heartbeat beyond the void." He carefully eyed Tommy staring at the door.
"You've said I done this many times before without knowing it. Still, I manage to find my way back." Tommy said taking a moment to himself. He stared at Dragon and to his surprise found himself on civil terms with the part of himself that he deemed the shadow side of his coin. Why was he going through all the trouble of keeping him safe if this part of his heart and soul represented the looming shadow of his past. He wondered what Dragon meant by him traversing beyond the brink of the physical and spirit world before. "Beyond the void of the physical and spirit world, I'm calling to it aren't I? The true Scarlet Sovereign, the Firebird?!"
"You're willing to take that venture again aren't you?" He said. "All you have to do...is step through that door." Dragon only let out a reluctant sigh watching as Tommy broke open the banging door and it immediately shut once he was inside. This was where Tommy was going to realize the truth of the "waking power" within him and the significance of this personal spirit world of his. The minute Tommy stepped into the room, everything went silent and the commotion and banging stopped. There was that familiar pulse, the light side of his and his pink princess' coin: the falcon and the crane. "Brennan? Shalimar? Are you here?" He focused on his connection to the respective animal spirits hoping to sense them wherever this room he walked into was. Seconds later, he heard their screeches breathing a sigh of relief they were still with him. "Brennan? Shalimar?" Taking a breath, a faint pink and white light came towards him and he saw the birds descend towards him.
"Tommy, our winged lordship." They both called out to him and then let out a distress cry afterwards. "Oh no you've done it again? The waking power you used it?"
"I've made this trip before haven't I? I travelled here many times harnessing the true power within to get here."
"And you been warned many times the price you pay for traversing beyond the void. Yet, even with Dragon's intervention you couldn't resist venturing beyond the brink."
"We took it upon ourselves to make the venture here on your behalf." Shalimar said. "Yet, the untamed spirit will not yield and it's been calling out in the far distance. Unfortunately, someone answered its call and looks for an audience from the one with the waking power. We did all we could to protect our lady but it seems she has her limitations of what she can endure."
"Your ladyship do you mean..." Minutes later to his shock, he saw what looked like Kimberly's battered and bruised body laying on the ground. Immediately, he concentrated on his connection to Kimberly and rushed to her side. The moment he reached her, he felt a fiery burning sensation hit him, but he refused to relinquish his hold on his beloved pink princess. "Kimberly, I'm right here my beloved pink crane." He spoke those words as an angry screeched rang throughout the room and suddenly he felt both the falcon and crane let out a cry of distress again. This time they were on the defense as a fiery ring of fire headed towards the mated birds only to find themselves confronted by the Firebird again. Tommy picked up the unconscious body of his mate and to his relief felt her laboring breathing in his arms as he attempted to protect her.
"Keep our Winged Lady safe, my lord!" They called out Tommy as he watched Brennan and Shalimar combat the Firebird, the true Scarlet Sovereign in their bid to make the untamed bird yield. He concentrated his power to heal Kimberly in order to pull her back beyond the void. He realized what was happening and the warnings he was getting about venturing beyond the spiritual and physical realm. His reflexes kicked in when he felt a projectile weapon heading towards him and Kim as he dodged the attacks to find himself face to face with the sentinel figure cloaked in the scarlet red garments that blocked his path. It stared ominously at him and stood eerily still.
"I know who you are and I know where I am." He said defiantly. "You're the shadow of the coin that looms within my mate, my ladyship and my beloved pink crane for too long. It was you that was calling in the far distance and I answered. You're the Firebird, or the Scarlet Sovereign as they call you." He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Yet, you still part of my mate, the last piece confined in the void that can make her whole again. The lord with the traversing heart is here to make you, the untamed sovereign bend the knee and yield to your one true Winged Lord of the Skies."
Physical World
The others looked on in shock, and horror as Tommy fell on the ground. The children were confused to see why Tommy was glowing white unaware of the unpredictable surge of power coursing through him. Kat ordered the kids inside promising to explain everything to them later but getting Amelia to listen was another story. The young girl became hysterical telling her father not to wake up the power inside again. She kept yelling not to go into the empty place much to the confusion of the others.
They tried to make sense to Amelia's pleas trying to piece together what was happening to Tommy. He inadvertently let out a blast of power that was launched into the forest as he held his head in one hand and had his other hand outstretched.
"No, no I need the power to wake up from beyond the void!" Tommy screamed as he struggled to his feet. He wasn't sure what was happening to him except he couldn't clearly distinguish his foothold between the physical and spirit world. "I must make it bend the knee to the one true lord of the skies." He screamed again accepting another surge of power inside of him. This time, the other Rangers felt the unstable rise of power inside their white falcon.
"Oh dear God! What kind of power is Tommy channeling?!" Adam asked. "This isn't like any power we came across."
"What is it?" Tanya asked breathing hard due to the overwhelming sensation.
"This is just power itself, raw and pure power." Trini said looking at his best friend. "Whatever power Tommy possesses I think it extends beyond both physical and spiritual realms. He is channeling something that is pulling beyond both realms."
"He has it does he? The strong, but very dangerous tingling feeling inside of him?" Amelia asked addressing the figure who made his presence known. To the Rangers' surprise they were greeted by Quinn's presence once again seeing the scene occurring before him. "I can feel it and he travelled again didn't he to the empty place?!"
"Do you have any idea what is happening to Tommy?!" Jason asked frantically as he pulled Amelia behind him protectively. "I don't care about your crappy timing during the worst situations possible or what Amelia is talking about. You can probably tell us where the sudden surge of power we're feeling is coming from."
"Dumb ass did it again didn't he?!" Quinn sarcastically said as Tommy fell over on his knees as he started glowing white again. Immediately, the Garrison founder magically knocked Tommy out after he screamed in pure agony again from another power surge. "One too many times he has taken the plunge into the deep end of the pool. Only this time, he's going deeper and deeper into the water. He'll be out for a short period but we need to work fast before Tommy drowns in the deep end."
"What do you mean Quinn?" Rocky asked.
"Yeah, what is with the sudden power surges we're experiencing?" Zack asked.
"That overwhelming sensation that is hitting all of you like a freight train is Tommy's true power." Quinn explained as he ordered the Rangers to be prepared to teleport to the forest. They quickly headed downstairs and contacted Hayley and the others at her store to get to Tommy's house. After a little while, Hayley arrived with the Dino Rangers, Billy and Justin back at Tommy's house getting a quick recap of the situation. Once the original ten veterans Rangers were present, Quinn continued. "Tommy wasn't aware of the true testament of his powers but he inadvertently has been testing them over the years without realizing it."
"Like creating personal spirit worlds, heightened senses and other stuff?" Kat asked. "What does that have to do with Tommy's powers?"
"That power spike you're all feeling is your fearless leader's powers going into hyper overdrive inside a place beyond the physical and spiritual realm he was warned many times not to travel to very often. However, as the stubborn bastard as he is, dear old Tommy Boy didn't bother reading the instruction manual. His little defender and pink princess aren't the only ones with unstable abilities and powers at their disposal. His traversing heart willed it to wake up the power within him, the Power of Waking."
"The Power of Waking?" Jason asked looking at the others. "And this power was inside of Tommy this whole time?"
"It slept within him for a long time as a means to safely access planes beyond the physical and spiritual realm. For one to possess that power must have a strong will and heart to reach a sleeping heartbeat from within the void." Quinn explained to the Rangers. "He has proven his claimant as the One True Winged Lord of the Skies and heir apparent of the Bloodline of Power. Over the years, he has demonstrated fleets beyond comprehension and yet the power within him was kept grounded by a constant that remained prominent in his life, his one true love. However, without the constant that his world revolves around, the power that slept within him manifested into a life of its own."
"But it still doesn't explain what is happening to Tommy." Tanya replied. "If Tommy has this power inside of him the whole time, why are we suddenly feeling its aura?"
"It's because he's trying to reach my mommy in the empty place where the angry firebird is calling to him." Amelia suddenly said looking at Quinn. "He's been traveling there to track the pieces of mommy's heart over and over again. He's been doing it over the years without knowing it and it's how he's trying to keep his crane alive. Creating his special place at the lake house is just part of it. He's been testing the tingling feelings inside of him for a long time now..."
"Great, just what we need." Quinn answered shaking his head in disbelief. He couldn't get a proper sense of Tommy's aura or signature because it was acting erratic and his immediate reaction to the multiple power surges was intensifying. The power surging through the Bloodline of Power was unpredictable, untrained and it was just raw and pure power coursing through them. Expressing concern over Tommy's wellbeing, the only chance of preventing any further damage was to send the Rangers into unchartered territories many of them were not acquainted with. "We must work fast if you Power Rangers have a chance of pulling the falcon back from beyond the edge of the void."
"I'm sorry are you saying...we're the only ones that can reach Tommy?" Billy asked.
"And exactly how are we going to do that?" Justin replied.
"You're Ninjetti and those who possess the Great Power, anything is possible." Quinn replied firmly. "Even the strongest of will and has its limitations using the power of waking on a fool's errand. The power itself is meant for traversing hearts to reach realms, not for venturing to traversing realms to reach hearts. Should he continue to test the boundaries of the power he yields, it comes with a high price. That is why Power Rangers, it is imperative you find a way to bring Tommy back before he uses his powers again to make it impossible...for himself to pull himself back from the edge of the void."