Gung-Ho – Part 1

The late afternoon sun hung lazily over Angel Grove Park, casting warm rays across the rows of volunteers gathered for the community cleanup initiative. It was the perfect blend of service and camaraderie—a chance for the Rangers to reconnect with their city outside of the constant battles. Laughter and chatter filled the air as teenagers and younger kids worked side by side, picking up litter, planting trees, and repainting benches.

Zack Taylor was trying his best to focus on the task at hand, but his eyes kept drifting toward Angela, who was helping to organize trash bags a little further down the path. Her presence was both exciting and nerve-wracking; the last time they'd really hung out was at Homecoming, and Zack knew he'd dropped the ball afterward. With Jason's abduction and the pressure of being a Ranger, he'd let his personal life fall by the wayside. But now, seeing her there, the regret felt sharper.

He nudged Tommy, who was stacking some supplies nearby. "Man, this is my shot, right? I mean, I know I kind of messed up after Homecoming, but I want to make it right."

Tommy glanced over at Angela and then back at Zack, nodding with a grin. "You've got this, Zack. You just gotta be honest with her. And hey, if you need a wingman, I'm your guy."

Zack chuckled, nervously rubbing his hands together. "Yeah, well, don't go making it worse, bro."

Tommy smirked, giving Zack a playful shove. "I've got your back. Just go talk to her."

Gathering his courage, Zack made his way over to Angela, trying to play it cool. She noticed him approaching and glanced up, arching an eyebrow. "Zack. I didn't think I'd see you here."

Zack's heart skipped a beat at her tone—friendly, but guarded. "Yeah, I, uh… I've been really busy. You know, stuff with the guys and everything. But I'm here now, trying to do some good. And, um… I was hoping we could, you know, maybe hang out again. Like we did before."

Angela looked at him, her expression softening slightly. "Before when? Before you disappeared for weeks?"

Zack winced, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly. "Yeah, about that. I'm really sorry, Angela. I just—things got complicated. It wasn't you, I promise. I've just had a lot on my plate. But I miss hanging out with you."

Angela watched him for a moment, gauging his sincerity. "I liked Homecoming, Zack. But you've got to stop blowing hot and cold. If you're serious, show me. Don't just say it."

Tommy stepped in at that moment, sensing the tension but keeping his tone light. "Hey, Angela. Zack's been talking about you nonstop. He knows he messed up, but give him a second chance? He's been working on those moves."

Angela laughed, shaking her head but smiling despite herself. "Alright, Zack. One more chance. But don't make me regret it."

Zack's face lit up, relief flooding through him. "I won't. I promise."

As Zack and Angela's conversation continued, the rest of the park buzzed with activity. Ms. Applebee, their high school teacher and frequent mentor, was overseeing a group of younger kids, helping them paint a colorful mural on the side of the park's tool shed. She waved over at the Rangers with a warm smile, grateful for their involvement. "Great work, everyone! Keep those colors bright!"

Brent was nearby, chatting with Billy as they helped a group of kids plant flowers along the pathway. Billy was gently explaining the science behind each type of plant, his face lighting up as he engaged with the kids. Brent watched him, amused, clearly enjoying the way Billy came alive when talking about things he loved.

"You're like a walking encyclopedia, you know that?" Brent teased, nudging Billy playfully.

Billy blushed, adjusting his glasses. "I guess I just like sharing what I know. And hey, these kids are actually listening. That's a nice change."

Brent laughed, his eyes lingering on Billy. "Well, I'm listening too. You're pretty amazing when you get going."

Billy's cheeks turned an even deeper shade of red, but he smiled, the compliment warming him more than he'd care to admit. "Thanks, Brent. That… means a lot."

A few feet away, Jason, Trini, and Kimberly were supervising another group of kids, helping them pick up litter and recycle. Jason handed out gloves and bags, giving each of the kids a thumbs up as they eagerly set to work. Kimberly was busy tying her hair back, ready to jump into the fray, while Trini was keeping a close eye on some of the more rambunctious kids who had decided that chasing each other with trash bags was more fun than actually cleaning.

"Remember, guys," Trini called out, laughing as she redirected a pair of kids who had strayed too far, "Gung-ho! It means working together. We'll get this park looking great in no time."

Kimberly grinned, nudging Trini playfully. "You sound just like your mom. Always ready with the motivational quotes."

Trini laughed. "Hey, someone's gotta keep the spirit up, right?"

Jason watched them, feeling the usual comfort of being with his friends, but his mind was partially elsewhere. He glanced over toward Tommy, who had just returned from where Zack was talking with Angela. Tommy approached the group, a satisfied look on his face.

"Zack's finally talking to Angela," Tommy said with a smirk, wiping his hands on his jeans. "Looks like he's making some progress."

Trini raised an eyebrow. "Really? That's great! He's been moping about her for weeks."

Kimberly chuckled, shaking her head. "Took him long enough."

But Jason's smile was a little forced. Hearing Tommy talk about helping Zack felt like a reminder of how things were shifting. Zack hadn't asked Jason for advice—hadn't even looked his way for support. It was a small thing, but it stung more than Jason wanted to admit. He was used to being the one the others turned to, especially Zack. But lately, it seemed like Tommy was stepping into that role more and more, and Jason couldn't quite shake the sense of jealousy creeping up on him.

He tried to shrug it off, focusing on helping a kid struggling with a too-full bag of trash. "That's good for Zack," Jason said, keeping his tone light. "Angela's a tough one, but she's worth it."

Tommy nodded, oblivious to the subtle shift in Jason's demeanor. "Yeah, he'll be fine. I just gave him a little nudge."

Kimberly watched Jason out of the corner of her eye, noticing the slight tension but deciding not to comment. Instead, she looped her arm through Jason's, playfully leaning her head against his shoulder. "We've got the best clean-up crew here. What would Ms. Applebee do without us?"

Jason smiled, though his thoughts were still lingering on the conversation Tommy had just had with Zack. He patted Kimberly's hand, grateful for her presence. "Yeah, I guess we're not so bad."

Meanwhile, Tommy wandered off, leaving Jason, Trini, and Kimberly to their work. The trio watched as Zack and Angela continued their conversation, with Angela occasionally laughing at something Zack said. It was clear he was making progress, and the sight brought a smile to Kimberly's face.

Trini sighed, resting her hands on her hips. "It's nice to see Zack putting himself out there. I just hope he doesn't mess it up."

Jason nodded, his eyes still on Tommy's retreating figure. "Yeah. Me too."

Rita Repulsa paced furiously in her throne room, her mind churning with anger and unease. The echoes of Lokar's ominous words still rang in her ears, warnings that she could not afford to ignore. She had seen too many of her plans unravel recently, and every failure felt like another nail in the coffin of her reign. Her grip on Tommy, the power struggles among her minions, and the Rangers' resilience were all taking their toll on her confidence. Desperation fueled her every move now.

She turned sharply, glaring at Finster, who was meticulously shaping the Super Putties from the dark, glowing clay. The clay was no ordinary substance; it was a rare mix of enchanted elements, the likes of which even Rita had struggled to obtain. The mixture contained fragments of Gargantor stone, mined from the deepest pits of the Zordar Mines, combined with Darkmatter Crystals and infused with essence drawn from the Shadow Sea—a forbidden resource that had cost Rita greatly.

"This clay…" Rita began, her voice a mix of pride and apprehension, "is unlike anything we've used before. The Darkmatter Crystals bind the Putties together, making them impervious to almost any attack. But more than that, it feeds off the ambient dark magic in this palace, growing stronger with every passing moment."

Finster nodded, continuing his careful work. "Indeed, my Queen. But I must remind you, the supply of this clay is extremely limited. Extracting it nearly cost us half of our resources, and once it's gone… well, there will be no more. The Zordar Mines are sealed now, cursed and barren, and the Shadow Sea is not something we can tap into again without severe consequences."

Rita scowled, gripping her staff tighter. "I know that, Finster. But this is our best chance to crush those Rangers once and for all. We don't need another supply. These Super Putties are enough—they have to be."

Finster finished molding another Putty, stepping back to admire his handiwork. The Super Putties stood taller, broader, and radiated an unsettling energy, their forms almost shimmering with the power contained within. They were more than just clay and magic; they were Rita's desperation made manifest, her last-ditch effort to regain control.

Goldar and Scorpina entered the room, drawn by the sinister energy emanating from the newly crafted warriors. Goldar's eyes gleamed with anticipation. "These creations… they are formidable, my Queen. The Rangers will not stand a chance against them."

Scorpina smirked, tracing a claw along the edge of one of the Super Putties. "They look perfect for a little destruction. I can't wait to see them tear through those brats."

Rita turned to them, her expression hardening. "Goldar, Scorpina, you two will lead the charge. These Putties are our secret weapon. But remember, we have no room for mistakes. The clay used to create them is one-of-a-kind, and I won't waste it on failure."

Goldar bowed deeply, his wings flexing. "We won't fail you, Empress. This time, the Rangers will fall."

Scorpina nodded, brandishing her weapon. "I've been waiting for a chance like this. Let's see how long those Rangers can last."

Rita watched them, a mix of determination and dread swirling inside her. She knew this plan was a gamble, but there was no other option left. She had poured everything into these Super Putties—her magic, her resources, her very essence of power—and now she needed them to succeed where everything else had failed.

"Go, get those brats. And for good measure – get all of those kids. The ones at the park. Their friends. All of them, make them suffer." Rita commanded, raising her staff high. "Show those Rangers the true power of my Super Putties. And remember, this isn't just a battle—it's the beginning of the end for them."

As Goldar and Scorpina led the Super Putties toward their assault on Angel Grove, Rita stood alone in her throne room, staring at the dwindling reserves of clay. Her hands trembled slightly as she clutched her staff, knowing that if this plan didn't work, she was out of options. The Super Putties were not just her new army—they were her last stand against the Rangers.

With a final flick of her staff, she sent a surge of dark energy into the remaining clay, sealing it within a protective barrier. "This is it," she whispered to herself, her voice filled with a mix of hope and fear. "Don't let me down."

The late afternoon sun hung lazily over Angel Grove Park as the community cleanup wrapped up. Volunteers, including the younger kids, were starting to pack up their tools, chatting and laughing after a long day of hard work. The bright yellow school bus that would take Ms. Applebee, Brent, Angela, and the kids to the next park idled at the curb, its engine purring softly, ready to whisk them away to the last stop of the day.

Ms. Applebee, clipboard in hand, stood by the bus doors, her whistle bouncing lightly on her chest as she did a final headcount. Her voice was cheerful but firm, the tone of someone used to wrangling kids after a long day. "Alright, everyone, let's make sure we're all together! We've got another park to clean up before we call it a day. Gloves on, water bottles ready!"

Angela moved through the group of kids, making sure everyone had their gear. Her smile was bright, and she kept the energy high, even though she was clearly tired. "Come on, guys! Last stop of the day. Let's keep up the good work!"

Zack watched from a distance, his eyes lingering on Angela as she corralled the younger kids. He felt a renewed sense of determination and optimism, like maybe he was finally getting back on the right track. He gave her a thumbs-up and a smile, feeling lighter than he had in weeks. "You've got this, Angela!"

Angela shot him a quick smile, her cheeks dimpling slightly. "Thanks, Zack! We're all in this together, right?"

Across the lot, Brent was busy at the back of the bus, helping a younger kid who had accidentally tipped over a trash bag, sending debris scattering across the pavement. Brent crouched down, scooping up the mess quickly and calmly, his movements sure and swift.

"Don't sweat it, buddy," Brent said with a reassuring smile, patting the kid's shoulder as he handed him the now-sealed bag. "We all make messes. The important thing is we clean them up."

The kid nodded, visibly relieved by Brent's easygoing attitude. "Thanks, Brent. I thought I'd be in trouble."

Brent chuckled, standing up. "Nah, you're good. Just stick with the group, and let's finish strong."

By the entrance, Jason, Trini, Kimberly, and Billy were making sure the last of the supplies were organized and packed away neatly. Kimberly turned to Jason, who was adjusting his watch and checking the time. "So, you guys are coming, right? We could use the extra hands over at the next park."

Jason nodded, glancing over at the bus. "Yeah, we're just finishing up here. We'll meet you there in a bit. Shouldn't take too long."

Trini was folding up a tarp, watching the last of the kids board the bus. "I'm glad we got to do this. It's nice to be helping out, even without the helmets."

Billy adjusted his glasses, making sure everything was in order before they left. "Yeah, it's been a good day. We'll see you guys at the next spot."

Tommy was leaning casually against the side of the bus, his arms crossed as he watched Zack and Angela from a distance. His eyes flickered with a mix of amusement and unease, sensing the subtle shift in Zack's mood. Tommy looked back at Jason, his expression growing more serious as the bus doors closed and the kids settled into their seats.

"Jason," Tommy said quietly, his voice tinged with concern. "I don't know, but something feels off today. I've had this bad feeling all afternoon. We should keep a close watch."

Jason paused, catching the note of worry in Tommy's voice. He scanned the area, everything appearing perfectly normal, yet he couldn't shake the sense that there was something they were missing. "Yeah, I get it. Let's stay sharp. We'll keep our eyes open."

Kimberly looked between them, sensing the tension but trying to stay positive. "Hey, it's just a cleanup. What's the worst that could happen?"

Tommy forced a smile, but the unease lingered. He watched as the bus slowly pulled away, disappearing down the road with Angela, Brent, Ms. Applebee, and the kids onboard. They were supposed to meet them at the next park, but something about the day felt wrong, like a storm brewing on the horizon that no one else could see.

The bus rumbled down the quiet road, winding through Angel Grove's outskirts toward the next park on their list. Inside, the atmosphere was lively—kids chatted excitedly, energized by the day's activities, and Ms. Applebee kept a watchful eye from the front, her clipboard resting on her lap. Angela and Brent sat near the back, occasionally sharing glances as they kept the kids entertained with jokes and stories.

Angela leaned back in her seat, letting out a contented sigh as she glanced out the window. "You know, it's kind of nice being away from everything for a bit. No tests, no school drama—just doing something good."

Brent nodded, folding his arms behind his head. "Yeah, it's a good change of pace. Plus, I think the kids are having a blast. I mean, how often do you get to see Ms. Applebee swinging a trash picker like it's an Olympic sport?"

Angela laughed softly, nudging him with her elbow. "Right? And who knew she had moves like that? I swear she almost whacked a raccoon earlier."

As the bus continued its journey, a sudden, ominous shift darkened the sky above. The cheerful chatter inside the bus began to quiet as everyone noticed the strange, swirling clouds gathering overhead, blotting out the sun. The bus lights flickered, and a low rumble of thunder rolled through the air.

Ms. Applebee frowned, glancing nervously at the darkening sky. "This weather came out of nowhere. I didn't see any storms on the forecast." She tightened her grip on the steering wheel, trying to keep her nerves at bay. "Everyone, stay seated. We'll be at the park soon."

But as they rounded a bend, the road ahead suddenly erupted, and a group of Super Putties materialized, blocking their path. The monstrous figures stood taller and more menacing than any Putty the kids had seen, their rocky bodies shimmering with an eerie, dark energy.

The bus skidded to a halt, tires screeching as Ms. Applebee swerved to avoid the Super Putties. "Hold on!" she shouted, her voice tinged with fear as she fought to keep the bus steady. It veered off the road, crashing through a shallow ditch before coming to a jolting stop in a small, forested clearing.

The kids screamed, clutching onto their seats as the bus shuddered to a standstill. Brent and Angela quickly unbuckled, moving to check on everyone. "Is everyone okay?" Angela called, her voice shaking but determined.

Brent looked out the window, his eyes widening at the sight of the Super Putties advancing toward them. "We need to get out of here. Now."

Ms. Applebee unlatched the emergency door at the back, guiding the kids out as quickly as possible. "Stay close to me! Everyone, stay together and move quickly!"

Angela grabbed a branch from the ground, holding it defensively as she ushered the last of the kids out of the bus. Brent helped corral them into the nearby trees, his heart pounding as he looked around for any sign of the Rangers. But they were on their own.

The group sprinted into the woods, ducking beneath low-hanging branches and trying to put as much distance between themselves and the bus as possible. The forest was dense, filled with overgrown brush and tangled roots that made every step treacherous.

Goldar's guttural voice boomed through the clearing, filled with malicious glee. "Run all you want, it won't save you! Come out, little humans! The hunt is on!"

Scorpina's laughter echoed as she stalked beside him, her blade gleaming. "It's no fun if they don't put up a fight. Spread out and find them."

Brent and Angela huddled with the group behind a cluster of rocks and fallen trees, doing their best to keep the kids calm. Ms. Applebee, ever resourceful, pointed to an old, overgrown playground structure just visible through the trees—a relic from a time long forgotten.

"Everyone, over there!" she whispered urgently. "We can hide in the tunnels and use the old structure for cover."

They moved quickly, helping the kids into the creaky tunnels and hiding spots within the dilapidated playground. Angela crouched near a rusted slide, gripping her branch tightly, her eyes darting around as she tried to keep her breathing steady. Brent scanned the area, taking stock of anything that could be used as a makeshift weapon or trap.

Brent leaned over to Angela, his voice low but firm. "We can't just sit here. If we can slow those things down, maybe we can buy the others for the Power Rangers to help us."

"That's a big gamble, who even knows if they'll find us in time," Angela said.

"Trust me—they'll find us," Brent said, with a confidence that Angela couldn't help but buy into. His calm under pressure was infectious, and despite the dire circumstances, it gave everyone a glimmer of hope.

Angela nodded, her determination growing as she glanced around their makeshift hiding spot. "Let's use whatever we can. If we're smart, we can keep them off the kids. We just have to slow them down."

With the Super Putties closing in and Goldar and Scorpina prowling nearby, every second mattered. They didn't have the luxury of time, but that didn't mean they were helpless. Brent quickly surveyed their surroundings: old playground equipment, overgrown brush, and piles of debris that had been left untouched for years. They would have to get creative—and fast.

Brent turned to the kids, who were huddled together, fear evident in their eyes but still alert and ready to listen. "Alright, guys, we need your help. We're gonna make this place a lot harder for those things to get through. We know this area well enough, but we need to protect ourselves. We need to move quickly but quietly."

The older kids nodded, their faces serious as they stepped forward, eager to do anything to help. One of the boys grabbed a fallen branch, while another girl pulled on a loose piece of rope hanging from a tree.

"Good thinking," Brent said in a hushed tone, directing them with quick, concise instructions. "Take that rope and tie it low between those two trees. Make it tight—we want them to trip."

Angela, working beside Brent, grabbed some discarded metal scraps and arranged them near the rope line. "These can work like noise traps. If they hit the metal, it'll alert us and slow them down." She gestured to a few kids to help her pile the rusted scraps strategically, creating barriers that would force the Putties to maneuver awkwardly through the tight space.

Ms. Applebee, usually reserved but now fueled by the fierce need to protect her students, picked up an old rake, her eyes sharp. "You, over there—help me with these logs!" she called to a few of the older kids. Together, they quickly rolled the rotting logs into position, creating a line that could be pushed at a moment's notice to block a path or trip an unsuspecting Putty.

One of the younger kids, a boy with quick hands and a determined look, tugged on Brent's sleeve. "What about the broken swing set? We could pull it down."

Brent nodded, impressed by the kid's quick thinking. "Great idea. Let's get some leverage on it. We can use it as a falling trap."

The group worked rapidly, pulling on frayed ropes and old chains to rig the swing set into a precarious position. Angela tied the last knot, securing the swing with a makeshift tripwire that could be triggered at just the right moment.

"Pull this when you see one of those things coming," Angela explained to the boy. "It'll come crashing down, and that should slow them down long enough for us to regroup."

The Super Putties crashed through the underbrush, their heavy footsteps shaking the ground as they searched for their prey. One of them stumbled into the tripwire the kids had set up, sending a heavy trash can swinging down from a tree and knocking it to the ground with a metallic thud. Another Putty got caught in the cluster of ropes Brent and Angela had tied together, immobilizing it just long enough for Brent to strike with a broken bench leg, sending it reeling into a pile of debris.

Goldar snarled in frustration, watching his minions falter under the improvised traps. "Pathetic! Find them and crush them!" His voice was a growl of impatience, but the chaos of the terrain slowed even him down.

Ms. Applebee, standing protectively near the children, spotted a Putty advancing on their hiding spot. Without hesitating, she swung her rake with surprising force, catching the Putty in the chest and knocking it backward into a pile of loose branches. She quickly pulled the kids closer, her usually gentle demeanor replaced with fierce protectiveness.

"You stay away from my students!" Ms. Applebee shouted, her voice filled with defiance as she readied herself for the next attack.

Angela spotted another Putty creeping toward them and acted quickly, jabbing it with her branch and sending it stumbling into a rusty old slide. The slide buckled and collapsed on top of the Putty with a loud clang, momentarily trapping it beneath the twisted metal. Angela's eyes flashed with determination as she caught her breath. "That'll teach you to mess with Angel Grove!"

The relentless Putties pressed on, crashing through whatever was in their path, but the group's quick thinking and resourcefulness continued to keep them at bay, even if only for moments at a time. Brent, Angela, and Ms. Applebee stood their ground, fully aware that each second bought was a victory in itself.

One of the kids tugged on Brent's shirt, pointing toward another advancing Putty. Brent nodded, directing him to release a loose rope that sent an old tire swing swinging wildly, colliding with the Putty's chest and sending it off balance.

Angela and Brent exchanged a look of unspoken understanding—they were in this together, and no one was backing down. The kids, no longer passive spectators, were part of the fight, their quick actions making all the difference.

Brent steadied his breathing, readying himself for the next move. "We've got this. Just keep them guessing. We hold the line. The Power Rangers will find us."

As Goldar roared in frustration and the Super Putties regrouped, the group braced for the next wave. They had turned a simple park into a battlefield, and every inch was contested. Brent, Angela, Ms. Applebee, and the kids were far from safe, but they were not giving up—not now, not ever. The Power Rangers would come - Brent was sure of it.

Moments Earlier...

As the bus carrying Ms. Applebee, Angela, Brent, and the kids disappeared around the bend, the Rangers continued their final tasks at the park. The air felt heavier, a palpable tension settling over them as they finished up. Jason, Trini, Kimberly, Billy, and Zack worked quickly, but Tommy's earlier warning echoed in their minds, keeping them on edge.

Zack tossed the last trash bag into the dumpster, wiping sweat from his brow. "Alright, that's it for me. Man, I can't wait to kick back after this."

Kimberly adjusted her hair, glancing at the darkening sky. "I hope they're having fun on the bus. I could use some of Angela's positive vibes right about now."

Jason was about to respond when a sudden tremor shook the ground beneath their feet, sending a jolt through the group. The air crackled with energy, and before anyone could react, a group of Super Putties materialized out of thin air, blocking their path.

The air crackled with an unsettling energy, a low hum that seemed to vibrate through the ground. Before anyone could react, a series of distorted flashes lit up the space before them, and a group of creatures materialized out of thin air, blocking their path.

These weren't the usual Putties the Rangers were used to facing. They were taller, with jagged, stone-like bodies that glimmered in the fading sunlight, as if carved from raw, otherworldly minerals. Their skin was a dark, almost obsidian black, streaked with veins of glowing green and blue that pulsed like a heartbeat. Crystalline shards jutted out from their shoulders and forearms, giving them a jagged, armored appearance. The eerie, molten lines crisscrossing their bodies flickered with an ominous light, suggesting something volatile and unstable coursing within.

Their faces were featureless save for two narrow, burning eyes—glowing red slits that moved independently, scanning the Rangers with a cold, predatory awareness that was unsettlingly human-like. As they moved, their joints ground together with the sound of rock scraping against rock, each step heavy and deliberate, leaving faint scorch marks on the ground where they stood.

Zack's eyes widened as he stepped back, instinctively raising his fists. "What are these things? They look like Putties, but… tougher. And meaner."

Kimberly's hand moved to her morpher, recognizing the immediate threat. "Whatever they are, they're not here to make friends. We need to be ready."

Jason took a step forward, his expression hardening as the creatures' jagged forms loomed closer. "Alright, guys, let's do this! It's Morphin' Time!"

The Rangers swiftly raised their morphers, shouting in unison as they transformed. "Mastodon! Pterodactyl! Triceratops! Sabertooth Tiger! Tyrannosaurus!"

Tommy joined them, raising his Dragon Dagger high with fierce determination. "Dragonzord!"

In a brilliant flash of light, the Rangers morphed into their suits, each enveloped in their respective colors as their helmets snapped into place. The Power Weapons materialized in their hands, and their stances shifted, now fully prepared to take on the monstrous beings before them.

The creatures moved with purpose, and as one raised its rocky arm, jagged spikes shot out, embedding themselves in the dirt near the Rangers' feet. It wasn't just an attack—it was a warning, a display of power meant to intimidate.

Jason tightened his grip on his Power Sword, adrenaline spiking as he assessed the threat. "Stay sharp. These things aren't like anything we've seen before."

Trini nodded, her eyes narrowing as she studied the creatures. "It's like they're made of living rock… and they're watching us."

The creatures stood in eerie silence for a moment longer, then charged forward with surprising speed, their movements fluid despite their heavy, armored appearance. They attacked in unison, coordinating their strikes with a level of precision that caught the Rangers off guard.

As the battle began, the Rangers quickly realized that their usual tactics weren't working. Each punch and kick seemed to bounce harmlessly off the creatures' rock-hard exteriors, and every weapon strike only left faint scratches against their jagged forms. The creatures retaliated with powerful, crushing blows that sent shockwaves through the Rangers' bodies.

Billy was thrown back by a sweeping arm that felt like being hit by a boulder, his suit sparking as he hit the ground. "They're absorbing our attacks! It's like they're adapting to everything we throw at them!"

Kimberly leaped onto a nearby rock, firing an arrow from her Power Bow. The arrow hit one of the creatures square in the chest, but it shattered on contact, the shards scattering uselessly. "It's like hitting a wall! We need another strategy!"

Zack swung his Power Axe, putting all his strength into the blow, but the creature blocked effortlessly, countering with a heavy strike that sent him skidding backward. "These things are built like tanks! They're not going down easy."

Tommy fought fiercely with his Dragon Dagger, attempting to pierce the creatures' stony armor. He managed to deflect a strike aimed at his head, but the force of the impact reverberated through his entire body, sending him reeling. "They're reading our moves! We need to regroup!"

The creatures closed in, their relentless assault driving the Rangers back. They moved almost as if they could anticipate every move, blocking hits with their stony arms and countering with devastating force. It was clear these were not ordinary enemies; they were something far more dangerous, a new kind of foe that was unlike any Putty the Rangers had ever fought.

As the battle raged, the creatures' burning eyes flickered with what almost seemed like a cruel intelligence. They were not just fighters; they were hunters, and the Rangers were their prey.

Jason swung his Power Sword in a desperate arc, but it was deflected easily, the creature's jagged arm knocking the blade away. "We're getting nowhere! Fall back!"

Before they could regroup, the Super Putties launched a coordinated shockwave attack, sending the Rangers crashing to the ground, their suits flickering with sparks as their energy levels plummeted. Each Ranger struggled to rise, but they were surrounded, outmatched, and out of options.

In a flash of white light, they were teleported away, leaving the Super Putties victorious and the Rangers reeling from their first true defeat.

The Rangers reappeared in the Command Center, collapsing onto the cold metal floor, still reeling from their encounter with the new, formidable foes. Their suits flickered as they struggled to catch their breath, each of them visibly shaken by the battle. Alpha 5 rushed over, his lights flashing erratically as he scanned them for injuries.

"Aiyaiyaiyaiyai! Rangers, are you alright? I had to teleport you out before those creatures could finish you off!" Alpha's voice buzzed with a mix of relief and worry.

Jason pushed himself up, gritting his teeth as he rubbed his aching shoulder. "Thanks, Alpha. We were getting crushed out there. Those things… they're not like any Putties we've ever seen."

Tommy leaned heavily against a console, his breathing ragged as he tried to process what just happened. "It's like they knew exactly how to counter every move. We hit them with everything we had, and it didn't even slow them down."

Zordon's image flickered into view, his expression solemn but resolute. His voice echoed throughout the Command Center, calm yet tinged with urgency. "Rangers, what you encountered today are no ordinary Putties. They are Super Putties, a new breed of warriors crafted by Finster using an exceptionally rare and powerful clay sourced from the Zordar Mines. Infused with Darkmatter Crystals, this clay grants them near-impenetrable strength, advanced combat intelligence, and the ability to adapt to any fighting style they encounter."

Before the Rangers could respond, the viewing globe activated, displaying a scene that made their hearts sink: the bus carrying Brent, Angela, Ms. Applebee, and the kids was surrounded by Super Putties. Goldar and Scorpina were leading the charge, relentlessly hunting down their friends through the dense woods near the park.

The image shifted, showing Brent and Angela setting up makeshift traps, using branches and old playground equipment to slow down the Putties. Ms. Applebee stood fiercely with a rake, swinging at any Putty that got too close to the kids. The Rangers watched in horror as their friends fought desperately to protect the children, knowing they were vastly outmatched.

Kimberly gasped, her hand covering her mouth. "They're in danger. We need to get to them!"

Zack slammed his fist against the console, frustration and fear boiling over. "We have to help them! They won't last long against Goldar and Scorpina!"

Trini's eyes remained fixed on the globe, her mind replaying the lessons she had shared earlier in the day. "Gung-Ho, remember? It means working together. Brent, Angela, and Ms. Applebee are doing their part. Now we have to do ours."

Billy, usually composed, struggled to keep his voice steady, the weight of the situation pressing heavily on him. "But how can we fight those things? We couldn't even scratch them. They're unlike anything we've faced."

Zordon nodded, his expression grave but understanding their fear and frustration. "The Super Putties are far more advanced than any of Rita's previous creations. They are not mere foot soldiers; they are living, adaptive weapons designed to counter any force you use against them. Your conventional weapons and tactics are ineffective and will continue to fail. There is only one way to defeat these creatures: you must retrieve the Thunder Slingers, ancient weapons with the power to pierce their defenses."

Billy's analytical mind raced as he tried to piece together the information, his thoughts turning to the forgotten tales and legends Zordon had once shared with them. "The Thunder Slingers… aren't those the weapons forged in the Desert of Despair? But that place is incredibly dangerous, filled with illusions, traps, and unpredictable terrain. It's not just the weapons—it's the journey to find them."

Zordon's image flickered slightly as he nodded, the blue glow of his tube casting a somber light across the Rangers. "Yes, Billy. The Desert of Despair is a treacherous place, steeped in ancient magic and long-forgotten trials. It is a land of shifting sands and disorienting mirages, designed to confuse even the most seasoned warriors. Not only will you face physical challenges, but also mental ones that will test your resolve."

Jason and Tommy exchanged concerned glances, understanding the gravity of the mission ahead. Kimberly's expression tightened with resolve as she looked at Zordon. "But we don't have a choice, do we? We have to get those weapons if we want to protect Angel Grove. We can't let those things hurt anyone else."

Zordon's tone was both reassuring and firm, underscoring the magnitude of their task. "Indeed, Kimberly. But there is something else you must be aware of. Hidden within the desert is Titanus, the mighty carrier Zord that has been dormant for centuries. Titanus guards the path to the Thunder Slingers. To retrieve the weapons, you must awaken Titanus, pass his trial, and prove your worth as a team."

Billy's eyes widened, taken aback by the revelation. "Titanus? I've never even heard of that Zord before. This isn't some Earth legend, right?"

Zordon nodded solemnly. "Correct, Zack. Titanus is not part of human history but rather a powerful ancient protector. He is immensely strong and will not yield the Thunder Slingers without proving yourselves. Titanus is as old as the Power itself, and his loyalty is bound to those who are true of heart and united in purpose."

Trini glanced at the viewing globe, watching as Brent, Angela, and Ms. Applebee continued their fight against impossible odds. She turned back to her teammates, her voice steady but filled with determination. "Gung-Ho, guys. It means working together, right? Brent and Angela are doing it out there, and now it's our turn. Jason and Tommy, you have to show Titanus you can work as one."

Jason and Tommy felt the weight of Trini's words. Their recent conflicts and differences had strained their bond, but this mission required absolute trust—not just in themselves, but in each other.

Tommy looked at Jason, his expression filled with determination but also a hint of vulnerability. "We've had our differences, but if we don't do this together, we'll fail. And if we fail, everyone we care about is at risk."

Jason met Tommy's gaze, the tension between them still lingering but overshadowed by their shared purpose. "You're right. We put the team first. We'll get those Thunder Slingers and win Titanus over. We could always use a new ally. Whatever it takes."

Zordon's voice softened, filled with encouragement but also the urgency of the moment. "Titanus would be a powerful ally to reclaim in this fight. Further, the power of the Thunder Slingers lies not just in their strength, but in the unity of those who wield them. Jason, Tommy, you must move beyond rivalry and act as one. The fate of your friends and the safety of Angel Grove depend on you."

Jason then turned to Zack, their tension still present. "Until I get back – lead them. Keep 'em safe." Zack didn't respond immediately, but nodded his head in agreement. "No one else I trust more," Jason added.

"Thanks," Zack said, his tone controlled.

With a flash of light, Jason and Tommy were teleported away, their forms dissolving into the bright glow of the teleportation beams. As they disappeared, the Command Center was left with a tense silence, the enormity of their mission weighing on the remaining Rangers.

Kimberly, Trini, Zack, and Billy stood before the viewing globe, watching anxiously as Brent, Angela, and Ms. Applebee fought to protect the kids in the woods. The Super Putties, Goldar, and Scorpina were closing in, and every second counted. The Rangers knew they couldn't defeat the Super Putties without the Thunder Slingers, but they couldn't just stand by.

Zack paced, his frustration barely contained. "We can't go toe-to-toe with those things, but we're not leaving them out there alone. We've got to get creative. And we gotta move quickly. Angela just said yes to going out with me again – I can't let a Putty take her down."

"Charming, Zack," Kimberly quipped. "Looks like she's holding her own. She's a brave girl."

Trini's eyes stayed fixed on the globe, watching how the Putties moved. "They're hunting in patterns. If we split them up, we can force them off their path. We need to bait them away from the group, keep them chasing us instead."

Billy nodded, analyzing the terrain on the screen. "There are narrow trails and dense brush. We can use that to our advantage. If we guide them through the tighter spaces, it'll slow them down. We set traps—use the environment against them. Fallen logs, loose rocks—anything that can trip them up."

"Right," Trini said, "It looks like Brent and Angela have already been doing that – trying to use the environment to their advantage."

Kimberly pointed to the overgrown playground visible in the background. "Yeah, they're luring the Putties there, creating a choke points. If we time it right, we can trap a few under the collapsed structures. Even if it only holds them for a minute, it's enough to keep them busy."

"And time for them to get away. Ms. Applebee, the kids – all of them," Trini said.

Zack considered the plan, thinking quickly. "Goldar and Scorpina are the biggest threats. We can't take them head-on and the Puttys, but if we keep them moving, we can wear them down. We hit them from a distance—force them to chase us through the woods, where they can't use their numbers."

Billy adjusted his visor, mapping out their route. "We need to be strategic. We pull them toward the rock formations here—those tight turns will slow them down. We create obstacles: scatter debris, push anything heavy into their path. We're not fighting them; we're stalling them."

Trini glanced at her teammates, her expression serious. "Gung-Ho, right? We don't need to overpower them—we just need to outthink them. It's not about beating the Putties; it's about keeping our friends safe."

Kimberly met Trini's gaze, then looked back at the viewing globe, determination hardening her voice. "We create a maze for them. Keep them running in circles, always one step behind us. Our friends just need a window to escape—if we can give them that, they'll find a way."

"Then we guard, prevent them from advancing."

Zack cracked his knuckles, his resolve unwavering. "Alright, let's move. We hit hard, disappear, and keep them off balance, just until we get out friends out. No direct fights—just hit and run."

The Rangers stood together, their plan clear. They wouldn't beat the Super Putties without Jason and Tommy, but they could create chaos, buy time, and give their friends the chance they needed to survive. In flashes of color, they teleported, each committed to using their skills and knowledge of the terrain to turn the tide.