What Was Lost: The Return Home

by superdory57

When life happens people change and time can pull apart even the closest friends. That doesn't stop the rangers from coming together when the world needs them. Will the original rangers be able to come together to save each other from themselves? Will the rest of the rangers be able to keep them safe from a threat unknown? And what does Jason's wife have to do with it?

20. Chapter 20 Man Down

Wednesday June 20th, 2018

Angel Grove, CA

"And remember, Jason is supposed to be relaxing still," Kim scolded the group. "Just because the doctor said he could drive again, doesn't mean everything is better. He still doesn't even know what was wrong."

They were at the dojo getting ready for the party that afternoon. The kids had been shooed to Adam's gym with Karly running in to tell the adults every time they did something they weren't supposed to do. Adam, Rocky, Aisha, and Tanya were helping Jake and Kim set up in the main gym which had the most space. They had equipment to move out of the way and tables to set up. And Kim kept fussing about where everything was.

Now that it was almost noon, Kim was starting to stress even more about it being ready for when the rest of their friends arrive. Rocky stifled a yawn as he waited for Kim to decide where she actually wanted the tables. He had gotten home late that morning from his shift the night before and hadn't gotten to sleep.

"We know, Kim," Aisha said, hands on her hips. "But if you keep interrupting us, we are still going to be rearranging everything when Jason and everyone else get here."

As they were all talking, the door opened, and Tommy and Kat walked in. Tommy was carrying a large box of paper plates, cups, and utensils and had his black backpack slung over his shoulder. JJ followed with a little girl hanging off his back. She was giggling as he half ran after his parents and tried not to drop her. Another girl, younger than the first, darted in after them and ran ahead of the group. Kim stared in surprise—she didn't recognize either girl. But no one else seemed fazed. Aisha, Tanya, Rocky, and Adam had already started walking away.

"Hi!" the younger girl exclaimed, running straight over to Kim. "I'm Rae."

"Hi, Rae," Kim said with a smile before looking back at Tommy.

"Hey, Kim," Tommy said. "Where do you want this stuff?"

"Anywhere is fine for now," she said. "But I'm a little surprised. You're actually early. And you have extra children."

"Yep," Tommy said, setting down the box he was carrying. "They aren't ours."

"Maybe we should leave now," Jake chuckled, watching Rae run off after JJ and the other girl. "So, we can't be implicated in a kidnapping."

Kim smacked his arm, not seeing the door open again. Tommy snorted, shooting a look at Jake.

"I don't need to kidnap them," Tommy said. "They just keep showing up at my house—sometimes I am warned ahead of time. Most of the time they just run in and jump on me."

"You love having them over," Kat said. "So don't complain."

"Who's kids are they?" Kim asked, still confused. "And why did you bring them with you?"

"Oh, they are mine," a familiar voice said. "And, technically, I brought them. Tommy only walked them inside because he stole the last close parking spot, and they wanted out."

Kim spun to face the speaker and stared for a moment in shock.

"Billy!" she squealed after a moment.

Without any other warning, she threw herself at Billy and grabbed him in a tight hug. He laughed, hugging her back.

"You didn't tell her, did you?" Kat asked, raising an eyebrow at Tommy.

"Nope," he grinned. "This is far more entertaining."

"Tommy…" Kat sighed.

"She could have asked about him at any time," Tommy protested. "And I would have told her the truth. That he was back and lived in Reefside. But she assumed no one had answers about what he was doing and just avoided the subject entirely."

Kat rolled her eyes. Kim was asking Billy question after question, barely giving him time to answer.

"How long have you been back?" Kim asked. "Are you here in Angel Grove? Those are your girls? How old are they? Why didn't you tell us you were back on—back in the country?"

"Slow down, Kim," Billy laughed. "I have been back for a long time now. But I do not live in Angel Grove, I live in Reefside. Hayley has a café there and I work for Mercer Industries in one of their research labs. I did tell several people when I initially returned to Ear—to the area. I had assumed everyone knew at this juncture."

"I would say they probably don't," a new voice interrupted with a chuckle. "Hi, Kim. I'm Hayley. And Izzy is seven and Rae is four."

The redhead held out her hand to Kim with a smile as she stopped next to Billy.

"Hayley?" Kim repeated.

"My wife," Billy explained.

"And Tommy's best friend," Kat added. "The one he accidentally added to the message thread a week or two ago?"

"Oh, right!" Kim exclaimed. "It's nice to meet you in person."

"She is not my best friend," Tommy grumbled.

Kat smacked him on the arm.

"Shouldn't you be leaving?" she asked. "You're going to be late."

"But he just got here," Kim frowned. "Where are you going?"

Tommy shifted his backpack on his shoulder as he raised an eyebrow at Kim.

"I have to go get Trini," he said. "Her plane should have landed by the time I get there if I leave now. That's why I brought Kat and JJ a little early."

"Isn't she coming from LA?" Kim asked. "Why are you driving all the way there just to bring her back? Zach could have waited and picked her up. Or I could have paid for a car service."

Tommy shook his head.

"Now this I know I mentioned at some point while you were planning this," Tommy said. "Or when you visited us? I don't remember. But If I pick her up, she can leave her security at the airport, and they will fly back to meet her when she leaves next week. I passed the UN security training for times like this. So, she doesn't have to bring extra people along to private gatherings."

Kim frowned but nodded hesitantly.

"I'll explain more if you have questions," Kat said. "But Tommy really does need to go, or he is going to be late meeting Trini."

"I'm going," Tommy said. "Hayley, try not to scare anyone too much while I'm gone."

"No promises," she grinned as Billy sighed.

Tommy ignored her. Turning he gave Kat a quick kiss.

"See you all in a couple of hours," he said as he started to walk out. "JJ—don't break anything!"

"Bye dad!" JJ exclaimed, waving. "I'll try not to!"

Just after 1pm, Jason and Marc arrived at the dojo. The rest of the group had finally gotten everything organized the way Kim wanted it and were relaxing as the kids ran around the room. Adam had pulled out some toy swords they were now chasing each other with, screaming and laughing as they went. Aisha was watching her youngest closely since the sword he had picked up was almost as tall as he was.

"Damien, don't run under the tables!" she was yelling across the room as Jason and Marc walked in. "You're going to—never mind…"

Trying to catch the older kids with longer legs, Damien had run into the table and fallen down. Rocky sighed and started to go pick him up, but before he got there Damien jumped back up.

"I'm ok!" the three-year-old shouted as he ran off after the other kids again.

"Alright," Rocky shrugged as the rest of the adults snickered. "Guess that's fine, too."

"Jason!" Kim exclaimed, seeing him standing just inside.

She hurried over to meet him and give him a hug.

"Hey, Kim," he said, hugging her back. "Am I late? It kind of looks like you have all been here a while."

"Oh, we just got here a little bit early to get things organized," Kim said with a shrug. "And we are still missing a few people. Zach isn't here and Tommy isn't back yet with Trini."

"Back with Trini?" Jason repeated. "I thought she was flying into LA. Why didn't Zach just bring her?"

"Something about security and Zach not being qualified," Kim said, shaking her head. "I guess it had to be Tommy—though thinking back I vaguely remember something about Adam also being an option. The point is, they should be on their way back shortly and I expect Zach soon, too."

"Oh, alright," Jason said. "I guess I didn't think about security for Trini. But she is an ambassador, so we probably should have considered that."

"I asked when I called her a couple of weeks ago," Kim said. "Trini said she would handle it—now come on. I have a surprise for you!"

Without waiting for an answer, Kim grabbed Jason by the arm and started dragging him across the room.

"Do I want this surprise, Kim?" Jason asked warily. "What did you do?"

"I didn't do anything," she said, not letting go. "It was my surprise first and now it's your turn."

That didn't make him feel better. Kim dragged him over to a couple standing on the other side of the room and finally let go. Jason just stood there in surprise for a moment. Kim and the rest laughed at the look of shock on Jason's face.

"Billy?" he exclaimed, finally finding his voice. "Billy, what are you doing here?"

"Greetings, Jason," Billy said with a smile. "I am here because I was invited."

"Right," Jason said. "I meant—when did you get back? Why didn't anyone tell us?"

"Apparently we were supposed to ask," Kim said, rolling her eyes. "Everyone else knew Billy was back except me, you, and Zach."

"But it was totally worth not telling you all," Hayley snickered. "Tommy is going to love this video."

She was standing next to Billy with her phone out, texting. Jason frowned, looking at her as he tried to figure out where he knew her from.

"Who are you?" he asked.

"I'm Hayley," she answered.

"Hayley?" Jason repeated. "Oh! You're Tommy's Hayley?"

He recognized the voice now. She had helped him connect his laptop up to the mall system.

"No, if I'm anyone's Hayley, I'm Billy's Hayley," she corrected. "But Tommy is my best friend."

"Oh," Jason said, trying not to sound disappointed at Hayley's claim as Tommy's best friend. "It's nice to officially meet you."

"We've met before," Hayley said. "But it is nice to see you again."

"We have?" Jason asked, frowning as he tried to remember. "I don't remember meeting in person. Just you helping me set up my stuff at the resort."

"Probably not," Hayley said, shaking her head. "You were a little—strung out—at the time."

Jason frowned.

"The shadows were after you," Hayley said quietly, her tone a little more serious.

"Oh," Jason grimaced. "Right. I guess I didn't know you were there."

"I was there to help Tommy," she explained. "Just in case you were actually in a fight with someone—or something."

"How were you going to—" Jason started to ask.

"Mom!" Izzy yelled running over. "Mom—Rae is climbing the peg board without an adult."

Hayley and Billy both turned to look at their eldest.

"How did she get on the board by herself?" Billy asked. "She is not tall enough to reach the first pegs without assistance."

"I think JJ helped," Izzy said. "He says he did not, but it was not me and Karly did not help and Lilla and Jazzy are not tall enough and—"

"Alright, alright—I'm coming," Hayley sighed. "Billy, stay and visit. I'll go get Rae this time. They should probably eat lunch anyways."

Billy watched them go, shaking his head. Then he turned back to Jason.

"Oh, I have something for you," Billy said, reaching into a pocket. "Adam and Rocky sent me a message yesterday. They said you needed this."

He held out a watch with a leather band. Jason took it in surprise.

"Umm… thanks?" he said slowly as he looked it over. "I do have a watch already."

"That is not just a watch, Jason," Billy said with a smile. "Here."

Billy took it back and pushed a couple of small buttons on the side. To Jason's surprise, the top popped open to reveal a hollow space.

"Perhaps this is a better place to keep your coin than your pocket?" Billy suggested quietly. "A watch is also something you can wear almost everywhere, so you can always have it with you."

Jason didn't say anything immediately, but he did take the watch back as he reached his other hand into the pocket where his coin was currently tucked. It fit perfectly into the hollow space. Jason closed it, making sure it clicked shut.

"Thank you," he said gratefully.

"Of course," Billy smiled. "Let me show you how to correctly open it. I cannot promise my wife did not add a deterrent to keep strangers from getting into the watch. Which will function as a normal watch so as not to draw any attention."

"Deterrents?" Jason repeated as he watched Billy show him again. "Is this like Trini's watch? It's not going to electrocute me, is it?"

"Not quite," Billy laughed. "We may have gone a little bit overboard with hers—but she did volunteer to put herself in front of the public for us. I believe Hayley said yours will just give a little shock. It would feel like someone pinched your finger. Either that or it will set off an alarm… I do not know which option she chose."

"Ok then," Jason said. "Show me again before I try."

"I'll just leave my bags in the truck if that's alright with you," Trini said, glancing at Tommy.

He nodded as he parked the car and turned it off.

"May as well," he said. "Since you'd just be loading it back in here later. Also…here."

Trini blinked at him in surprise for a moment. Tommy was now holding out the keys.

"Umm…"

Tommy chuckled as she took them hesitantly.

"Just in case you need in the car," he said. "I locked it since your stuff is in there. But also so I can't leave without you."

Trini laughed, tucking his keys into her purse. They headed for the door. Tommy went to open it and stopped in surprise when he tried to turn the handle.

"Tommy?" Trini said.

"It's locked," he frowned. "Why is it locked? It was open earlier."

"I don't know," Trini said. "Maybe someone tried to come in so Adam locked it to deter anyone else?"

She had pulled out her phone and was sending a text. Tommy tried the door again with the same result. But a moment later it opened.

"Trini!" Adam grinned. "Come in."

Before Tommy realized what was happening, Adam had pulled Trini inside and shut the door again. Tommy tried the door just to find it locked again.

"Adam!" he exclaimed.

"Sorry!" Adam answered, his voice slightly muffled by the door. "Your name isn't on the list."

"Wait—what?" Tommy sputtered. "Adam!"

Adam just laughed as Tommy tugged at the door again. Scowling, Tommy spun.

"Fine!" he shouted back over his shoulder. "I'll just go back to the resort. Then you can deal with Kat being grumpy."

He stalked over to the car, only to find it locked. Reaching in his pocket, he groaned as he remembered he'd just given Trini his keys.

"Fantastic," he muttered. "There went that plan."

Sighing, Tommy went back to the door to try and get inside. For the next ten minutes he argued with Adam as he laughed.

"You had to know I'd do something after the soccer game," Adam retorted.

Scowling, Tommy pulled out his phone to send a text.

Guess I'm going to mom's since Adam has decided I'm spending the night in the parking lot by myself. See you after the party.

Tommy turned to walk away. But the door opened just a moment later.

"Fine, you win," Adam grumbled. "No fair using Kat."

Tommy grinned as he turned.

"I don't play fair," he retorted. "Besides, I could have just broken in."

"Please don't," Adam sighed, letting the door shut behind both of them.

"I didn't," Tommy chuckled. "Now. Are we all here?"

"Yeah," Adam nodded. "Zach got here a little while before you and Trini."

"Good. And how'd it go with Billy?"

Adam started laughing.

A couple of hours later, they had scattered into smaller groups as they caught up with one another, occasionally running to take care of a kid or grab a snack as they rotated around talking. Zach was still complaining about being surprised with Billy.

"That was just cruel, man," Zach was saying to Tommy. "You could have just told us. Not talking or asking about Billy has been a habit since he left. Kind of hard to explain where he went you know."

"Maybe," Tommy grinned. "But the picture is great."

"Picture?" Zach repeated. "You took a pict—but you weren't even back yet!"

"Not me—Hayley," Tommy corrected. "But she sent it to me."

"Oh… well, I still think you should have told us," Zach muttered.

"Again—you could have asked," Tommy retorted. "The worst you would have gotten was everyone saying they had no idea."

Kat, standing with them, just shook her head as the two men continued arguing. On the other side of the room, Rocky was supervising most of the kids as they tumbled around on some stacks of mats that they had set up for them. Adam and Jason had gotten out some pads and were letting Marc and JJ burn off some energy by practicing some kicks. Billy was over by the peg wall with Rae, letting her climb around for a while with him watching her.

Aisha, Tanya, and Trini were sitting at one of the tables talking quietly. Aisha had Damien in her arms. He was sleeping with his head on her shoulder. After running around like crazy after the older kids all morning, he had eaten lunch and then crashed. Hayley walked over to join them, balancing several cups that she handed out to the other women.

Kim and Jake, who had just finished refilling coolers with ice, were heading to check the food when the door to the gym burst open. Most of the adults turned to see what was going on. Conner had just burst in, pausing just inside the door to look around as he held a wrapped box in his arms. Seeing Conner, most of them immediately went back to their conversations. Kim, however, immediately went to stop him.

"Excuse me, but this is a private party—" Kim started to scold him.

"Sorry, Kim," Conner grinned at her. "I'll be quick."

Kim stared at him with surprise as she realized who he was.

"What are you doing here, kid?" Jake asked, frowning at Conner.

Conner stopped, grinning at Jake.

"I—nope, don't have time for you right now," Conner said, spinning away. "Dr. O!"

Catching sight of Tommy, Conner bolted away from Kim and Jake. He slid to a stop next to Tommy, Kat, and Zach.

"Where's JJ?" Conner asked, looking at Tommy expectantly.

"JJ!" Tommy yelled in response. "Conner—aren't you supposed to be gone already? I thought your bus left hours ago."

Hearing his name, JJ stopped what he was doing to look. Seeing Conner, he excitedly ran over to see him.

"Oh, yeah," Conner was saying. "I may have—"

JJ threw his arms around Conner in a hug, interrupting him mid-sentence. Conner grunted as he cut-off what he was saying to Tommy.

"Conner!" JJ exclaimed. "Are you here for the party?"

"Hey kid!" Conner grinned, setting the gift down and picking JJ up.

Conner spun JJ around a couple of times before setting him down.

"Whoa," JJ said, wobbling a little. "Let's do that again!"

"Or not," Kat said, shaking her head.

"Sorry, kid," Conner apologized. "I don't have a lot of time. I'm not going to be in town for your birthday on Saturday, so I wanted to make sure you got your present before I left. Here you go."

Conner picked up the box and handed it to JJ.

"Where is Krista?" JJ asked as he examined the present excitedly.

"Uh, waiting in the car," Conner answered. "She's a little mad at me cause we're late. Well, I'm late. But she's still planning on stopping by Saturday so she's keeping the car running. So open that quick—I've got to catch my team."

"They left without you this time, didn't they?" Tommy asked drily. "I told you they would if you kept showing up late."

"This one was not my fault, Dr. O," Conner grumbled. "They changed the leave time last night and I changed my alarm, but I forgot to tell Krista. And then I may have left my phone in the kitchen after having a midnight snack, so I definitely didn't hear it go off..."

Jake, who had followed Conner over with Kim, snickered. Tommy was shaking his head in amusement.

"So, Mr. Perfect isn't so perfect, is he?" he smirked at Conner.

Conner spun to look at Jake.

"Better to be a great player that shows up a little late," he retorted. "Then to have an entire team show up on time that should have just stayed home."

Jake sputtered, but Tommy interrupted before he could reply.

"Conner, get out of here," Tommy said. "You don't have time to antagonize people."

"But JJ hasn't opened his present yet," Conner protested.

"We'll take a video and send it to you," Kat promised. "Now go—before Krista comes in here to get you."

"Alright, I'm going," Conner said. "Happy birthday, kid!"

Turning, he started to run back outside.

"Don't watch it while you drive!" Kat yelled after him.

"I'll watch it once I'm on the bus!" he yelled back before ducking out the door.

"Umm… what just happened?" Zach asked, looking back and forth between the door and his friends.

"That was Conner," JJ grinned, still holding his gift. "He always makes sure I get my present early if he isn't gonna be home on my birthday."

"And exactly who is Conner?" Zach asked.

"Conner McKnight," Jake muttered. "An obnoxious pain in the butt."

"What he said," Tommy agreed.

"Tommy!" Kat exclaimed, smacking him on the arm. "You do not really think that. Be nice."

"I don't have to be," Tommy retorted. "I'm not his teacher anymore."

Kat rolled her eyes.

"But you are still his mentor," she said, raising an eyebrow. "And his friend. So be nice."

"Dad, can I open this now?" JJ asked. "You said you would send a video, so that means I don't have to wait until Saturday—right?"

Kim gasped as Tommy started to tell JJ to go ahead.

"Your birthday is on Saturday," she said, looking at JJ with wide eyes.

"Duh?" he said.

"JJ," Kat scolded.

"What?" he said. "This is like the fourth time someone has said it in the last five minutes."

Kat just pursed her lips and crossed her arms.

"I'm sorry," he mumbled. "Yes, my birthday is on Saturday."

"I didn't even think about asking about birthdays," Kim groaned. "I could have made today a birthday party."

Zach, Tommy, and Kat laughed as Jake patted Kim's arm consolingly. Kat pulled out her phone and took a video of JJ opening his gift so she could send it to Conner.

Setting the box on the ground, JJ plopped down next to it and ripped off the paper.

"It's laser tag!" he exclaimed in excitement. "Dad—can I open it now?"

"Not right now," Tommy said, shaking his head. "Too many kids, not enough space. We can open it tomorrow at the resort and you and Marc can chase each other around the courtyard."

"Alright," JJ sighed, still looking at the box.

Jason and Adam were waiting for JJ to come back when Jason's phone started ringing in his pocket. Pulling it out, he groaned. Adam shot him a look, but Jason waved him off and walked away as he answered.

"What do you want, Christine?" Jason snapped irritably, trying to keep his voice low. "I'm not going to talk to you about Monday right now—it was your own fault."

"That's not why I'm calling," she sniffed. "I wanted you to know your car is gone. I drove past your parents' house and it wasn't there. I think someone stole it."

Jason rolled his eyes.

"No one stole my car," he said shortly. "I'm sure you don't actually care—but my driving restrictions have been lifted."

"Oh… so you took your car to the resort?" she asked.

"No, because I'm not at the resort right now," Jason answered. "And it wouldn't matter because you aren't allowed on the property again—remember? You were harassing the staff and you hurt our son."

"I wasn't—I'm sorry," she started to snap before catching herself. "I've just been upset with you not talking to me… I want to see you, Jason."

"I don't think you really do," Jason said, shaking his head. "Not after everything you said last week. Not to mention everything you said last night."

"I was just angry," Christine said, sniffling now. "I didn't mean any of it… Last night I was just in shock over the restraining order and spending a night in jail and I wasn't thinking clearly. I'm so sorry. Please come home. We can have dinner and talk. I know I've been acting weird since we got here, but I want to make things better…"

"Not tonight," Jason said, relenting a little. "Maybe this weekend sometime."

"Why not tonight?" she asked. "You have your car back, so you don't have to worry about a ride. I'll pick up whatever you want to eat, and it can be just the two of us."

"I'm with my friends tonight, Christine," Jason sighed. "I'm not coming to see you because I want to spend time with them. Some of them I haven't even spoken to since high school. I've missed them and I don't want to interrupt their night, either. So, if you could please just leave me alone to enjoy myself I would appreciate it."

"Oh… well, I guess…" she sighed. "Maybe I could meet you after? Before you go back to the resort? Or are you going to stay with your parents now?"

"I'm still staying at the resort," Jason said. "Tommy said to stay until I'm ready to go home and I don't want to keep moving Marc around."

"Well, is there anything you need from the house?" she pressed. "I could bring it to you before you go back. Maybe we could talk for just a couple of minutes?"

"I don't need anything," Jason said shortly. "If I did, I would just come get it myself when I leave the dojo. Besides, Marc isn't ready to see you yet either and I'm not going to make him. We got the restraining order for a reason. Now I've got to go. I'll call you tomorrow sometime and we can talk about what we're going to do next."

"I guess…" she finally conceded. "I love you."

He didn't answer her, not really sure how he felt right now. Instead, he just hung up and put the phone back in his pocket. Rubbing the back of his neck, he headed back over to Adam and the boys.

"Everything alright, Jason?" Adam asked.

"It's fine," Jason said, taking a deep breath. "Now where were we?"

"So did you check in before you came here or are you just going to do that after we leave tonight?" Kim asked Trini an hour later.

Damien had woken up, so Aisha had taken him to play with the other kids. Kim had joined Trini and Tanya at the table where they were talking.

"Since Tommy is going back there after the party, we didn't see the need to make an extra stop," Trini said. "My things are in his truck."

"I love how convenient he makes staying at the resort," Kim said. "But I've been having some issues… and Tommy isn't taking them seriously."

"What kind of issues?" Trini asked, frowning.

"Well, I think the housekeeping staff are moving my things around when they clean," Kim said. "They haven't taken anything—not that I think anyone there would—but it's a lot more than just shifting something to clean and putting it back. Things are moving from one side of the room to another. Or sometimes to other rooms entirely. Yesterday I found all of my shoes in the bathroom—that is not where I put them."

"And you think housekeeping is doing it?" Trini said doubtfully.

"I don't know who else it would be," Kim sighed. "Tommy says it must be me and that I'm just forgetting. I know it isn't Jake. He's always out with me when it happens."

Trini frowned, glancing over at Tanya as she thought. She looked around the room, her gaze coming to rest on Tommy and Jason talking to Adam and their sons.

"Hey Kim?" Trini said slowly as an idea came to her. "I don't think it is housekeeping."

"Then who is it?" Kim said. "Because it certainly isn't me."

"Well, let's think about it for a moment," Trini said. "Who do we know that would love an opportunity to mess with you? And may potentially be a little annoyed with you?"

"I already said Jake wouldn't ha—"

"Not Jake," Trini said, shaking her head. "You can't think of anyone else who would love to mess with your head? Maybe for hovering too much?"

Kim followed Trini's gaze across the room.

"Jason?" she said. "Ok. I'm sure I've probably annoyed him several times since I got back to California. But he doesn't have a key to my room. It couldn't have been him."

"Because he doesn't have a friend who could get a key?" Trini said.

Tanya nearly choked on her drink as she caught on to what Trini was saying. Kim took a moment longer and then her eyes widened as she got the hint.

"THOMAS OLIVER!" Kim shouted, jumping up from her chair and stalking toward him.

Tanya and Trini both burst out laughing.

Across the room, Tommy froze when he heard Kim shout. Turning around, he saw her stalking toward him and realized she had finally figured it out.

"Uh… Jase?" Tommy said, glancing around to determine the best escape route. "You might want to run."

"What?" Jason frowned. "Why?"

Kim, seeing Tommy start to back away, started running.

"Run, Jason!" Tommy exclaimed, bolting away.

Seeing Kim running at them, Jason realized why Tommy was telling him to run. He turned and ran after Tommy with Kim hot on his tail. Tommy quickly disappeared, but Kim spent several minutes chasing Jason around the room as everyone else was laughing. She finally caught him in a corner.

"Kim, it was just a little bit of fun," Jason panted, holding up his hands in surrender.

"Thomas Oliver, get out here!" Kim shouted, looking around. "I know you were involved in this!"

"It's a hostage situation!" Zach laughed.

"Tommy!" Kim yelled again.

"I'm right here, Kim," Tommy said, walking back into the gym with his hands up in surrender. "Don't kill Jason—it was my idea."

He joined Jason in the corner. Kim glared at both of them.

"In my defense—you did say you wanted Jason to lighten up," Tommy said. "He had fun. We didn't break anything. Just some innocent fun."

The laughter around the room hadn't stopped, though it had gotten quieter as they all listened to Kim start lecturing the two men.

"I can't believe you, Tommy," she said. "That is a completely inappropriate use of a master key."

"I don't have a master key, Kim," Tommy said. "My managers don't have master keys. The only ones allowed master keys are security and housekeeping—and we keep a very close eye on those keys."

"Making a new key to my room isn't any better!" she snapped. "It's an invasion of privacy."

"I didn't make a key either," he said. "You have my word."

Kim frowned.

"Then how did you get in?" she demanded. "Because I know I locked the door whenever I was gone."

Tommy hesitated, glancing around the room. Jake, who had been heading in their direction to try and save them from his wife, froze in place. He and Tommy made eye contact for a moment.

"You know what?" Tommy said, grinning and shaking his head as he looked back at Kim. "I plead the fifth. I'm not going to tell you."

"Tommy!" Kim snapped.

But something else had gotten Jason and Tommy's attention. Both of them had stopped smiling.

"You have got to be kidding me," Jason snapped, glaring behind Kim.

"What are they doing here?" Tommy growled.

Kim spun to see what they were looking at. Christine and Will had just walked into the gym. The rest of the room had fallen silent as well, except for the kids still laughing and playing in the corner. They hadn't noticed the tension rise when the two uninvited guests walked in.

"Oh—I don't think so," Kim snapped. "They are not welcome here tonight. She isn't supposed to be anywhere near here Marc right now."

She started to storm over to order them out. Tommy stuck his arm out to stop her, pushing Kim back behind him. She protested a little, but Jake hurried over. Rocky and Adam were heading their way, too.

"Kim, no," Jake said.

Tommy turned to Jason as Adam and Rocky stopped next to him.

"Jason, do you want us to take care of them?" Adam asked.

"We'll throw them out for you," Rocky added.

Tommy didn't say anything, waiting for Jason to answer. Jason hesitated, looking at the siblings and then back at his friends.

"No," he finally said, shaking his head. "I'll take care of it."

Adam, Rocky, and Tommy exchanged glances.

"Are you sure, Rex?" Tommy asked, frowning. "You don't have to. We could just call the police—she's breaking the terms of the restraining order."

"They are my problem and I have to deal with them at some point," Jason sighed. "I'll be fine. Just give me a few minutes."

Tommy conceded—reluctantly—and stayed with Rocky and Adam while Jason went to talk to Christine. Jason didn't say a word when he walked up to his wife, he just gestured back out the doors. She and Will followed him.

"What are you doing here, Christine?" Jason asked as soon as the door shut. "I told you I didn't want to see you tonight. And you aren't supposed to come around without permission right now—I could have you arrested again."

He crossed his arms, looking at her expectantly.

"We were out and you said you were at the dojo so…" she said quietly. "I just want you to give me another chance. I can't tell you how sorry I am about our fight. And hurting Marc. I was just mad and not thinking…I didn't mean it…Please just give me a chance to fix things."

Jason sighed.

"Christine, I told you I was with my friends tonight," he said. "So can you please just go?"

"Please, Jason?" she pleaded. "You have to let me try—otherwise you may as well just end it all now. This is the perfect chance for me to try and make it right with you and with your friends. I know you won't be happy if we can't at least get along."

"Christine…" Jason sighed.

"If we can't at least try to move on we are never going to make this work," she interrupted. "I know the fight was my fault—but you avoiding me is hurting me. It's hurting our family. Please give me another chance. I'll keep my distance from Marc if he isn't ready to talk to me. You have to at least let me try…"

Jason hesitated. The part of him that still wanted to make his marriage work knew she was right—he couldn't avoid her forever. And with his friends there to support him it would make it easier to be around her for a few hours.

"Alright, fine," he conceded. "But please, don't cause any problems. And stay away from Marc. If he wants to talk to you, he will."

"I promise," Christine said, smiling. "Thank you for giving me a chance."

She gave him a hug. He hugged her back stiffly. The three started to walk back into the gym. But just before they went inside, Jason grabbed Will by the shoulder and stopped him.

"Will, I am going to give you one last warning," Jason said grimly. "These are my friends. Most of them are very happily married. And the ones who aren't married? They aren't interested. So, just keep your head down and don't antagonize anyone."

"Let it go, Jason," Will said, rolling his eyes. "I told you—it was a joke."

"Not to Kat," Jason snapped back. "You didn't even know who she was—and all of my friends would happily kill you for trying it again. So, keep your hands to yourself or deal with the consequences. I'm not going to help you this time."

"Whatever, Jason," Will said shortly. "It's not that big of a deal."

"I'm serious, Will. They will hurt you if you make them. And I really don't think I could stop most of them even if I wanted to. And stay away from Kat—and Tommy. You're lucky he wasn't there the first time."

"I can take care of myself," Will scoffed. "But I'll be cool if you insist since you are giving my sister a chance."

Jason let him go and Will stalked into the gym after Christine. Taking a deep breath, Jason followed them. The atmosphere in the gym had changed. The laughter from just a little while ago had disappeared and hushed conversations were happening in small groups while the other rangers shot looks at Christine and Will.

"Jason, what are you doing?" Kim hissed, stopping him.

"I'm sorry, Kim," he apologized. "I know you planned this for us. But she's right. Nothing is ever going to get better between us if we don't see each other. And she says she wants to at least try and get along with all of you to make me happier."

"But is this what you want?" Kim asked softly. "You got Marc the restraining order for a reason…"

"I don't know," Jason sighed, fidgeting with his watch. "But I feel better about it with all of you here to have my back."

"Alright," Kim sighed. "We can give it a shot if that's what you want. But if she causes any problems…"

"If she causes any issues then throw her out," Jason agreed. "That includes even trying to talk to Marc."

The atmosphere in the party stayed subdued for a while as dinnertime approached. The rangers were talking quietly in small groups while the kids continued to play in the corner. Adam and Tanya were currently supervising. He was standing behind her, his arms wrapped around as she leaned back against him. Marc was goofing around with JJ, though he kept glancing around to see where his mother was to make sure she hadn't gotten any closer.

A little way away from them, Jake was standing with his arm around Kim. They were talking with Jason and Christine. She had been shadowing Jason since he allowed them to stay.

"Are you sure I can't get you something to eat or drink?" Christine asked, looking at Jason.

"I'm sure," Jason said irritably. "I already told you I don't want anything right now."

"Alright," Christine pouted. "Where is Marc? Has he eaten yet?"

Jason sighed.

"Christine, none of us have eaten dinner yet," he said. "It's only just hit five. Kim said dinner won't be here till closer to six."

"Oh, right," she said.

Jason shook his head, trying to go back to talking to Kim and Jake. Most of the rest of the rangers were talking in a group on the far side of the room.

Tommy had an arm around Kat's shoulders. She hadn't been more than a few steps away from him since Will and Christine arrived. Tommy had been watching Will like a hawk—he didn't want him near anyone. Especially the women.

Will was currently standing near the drinks talking to Zach and Billy who were just trying to be polite. Hayley popped up next to them.

"Hi!" she said brightly looking at Will. "Remember me?"

"Umm… yes?" Will said. "What do you want?"

"Can I borrow your phone for a moment?" she asked.

"No—why?" Will asked.

"Oh, nothing special," Hayley said with a smile. "I just wanted to check something."

"Hayley!" Tommy said sharply, catching her attention.

She turned to look at him and sighed.

"Oh, fine," she muttered. "Bye!"

As Hayley walked back over to Tommy and Kat, she passed Trini, Aisha, and Rocky who were standing not far away from Tommy.

"Tommy is taking his role as my security a lot more seriously tonight than he normally does," Trini said, shaking her head. "He hasn't let me move more than a few yards away from him since Jason's wife and brother-in-law arrived. Have I missed something? It's kind of starting to creep me out."

Aisha and Rocky exchanged looks.

"You didn't hear what happened a couple weeks ago before Jason and Christine's fight?" Aisha asked.

"No," Trini frowned. "What happened?"

"Well, Will apparently decided it would be—funny—to walk up behind Kat and hit her on the butt," Aisha explained.

"And he's still alive?" Trini said in surprise, looking at Will and then back at Tommy.

"He wouldn't be if Kat hadn't stolen Tommy's keys when he found out," Rocky snorted. "And then things got worse with Jason so…"

He shrugged. Trini shook her head.

"Well, at least I know why he's being so paranoid now," she said, glancing back at Tommy again.

As they were talking, Adam and Tanya walked over to join them.

"Why was Tommy yelling at Hayley?" Adam asked.

"She got too close to Will," Rocky said. "Even with Billy and Zach over there, Tommy thinks it's too close. Though I'm still trying to decide if he was yelling at her because he was worried about what Will was going to do to her or what Hayley was going to do to him."

"I mean, Hayley did ask for his phone," Aisha pointed out.

"Then I'd go with the second one," Adam said, shaking his head. "Will had really better keep to himself though—Tommy isn't going to give him any breaks tonight."

The other four murmured agreements.

By the drink table, Will shot Tommy another glare.

"Ok, he is seriously giving me the creeps," Will said irritably. "Is he going to stare at me all night like that?"

Zach followed his gaze and saw the look on Tommy's face.

"Oh, you mean Tommy?" he asked. "Yeah. He's giving you the evil eye—what did you do to make him that kind of mad?"

Will scowled, not answering, so Zach looked at Billy for an answer.

"Well," Billy said slowly. "There was an incident two weeks ago between Kat and Will—"

"Will smacked Kat on the butt," Hayley inserted, grabbing a bottle of water out of the cooler. "And then he laughed about it."

Grabbing a cup, she filled it with tea before she walked away again. Zach stared at Will in surprise.

"Dude, how are you even still alive?" Zach asked.

Will scoffed.

"I can take care of myself," he snapped. "So, all of you need to stop acting like you are so much better than me."

"Sure you can…" Zach said slowly. "On an unrelated note… have you bought a burial plot yet? They are a very good investment. You know you are going to need it at some point."

Will scowled as Billy stifled a smile behind Zach.

"Anyways, I'm gonna go talk to someone who isn't heading toward a sexual harassment lawsuit," Zach continued as he started to walk away. "Hey Kat! Do you need a lawyer? I have one."

After grabbing the drinks from the table, Hayley walked back over to Kat and Tommy.

"Here is your tea, Kat," she said with a smile before turning to Tommy.

She shoved the water bottle into his chest, making him grunt as he quickly reached up to catch it with his free hand.

"That's for ruining my fun," she said with a smirk.

He just glowered at her. Then Zach started asking Kat about lawyers.

"I have several, but thank you Zach," Kat said, shaking her head.

Tanya looked around the group. They had lost most of the fun they were having with each other earlier.

"I have an idea!" Tanya said, looking over her shoulder at Adam.

Without any further explanation, she darted away across the gym. Adam started to follow her, a little confused by the sudden outburst and not wanting her too far away with Will in the room. Before he made it halfway, Tanya came hurrying back with two practice swords in her hands. He followed her back to the group. The kids, having seen Tanya grab the swords, all came crowding around their parents, too. Marc ducked over by Tommy since Christine was still standing with Jason.

"Why don't you and Tommy do a sword fighting demonstration?" Tanya suggested, handing Adam one of the swords. "It would be a nice distraction."

Tanya held the second sword out to Tommy, but Kat grabbed his hand before he could take it.

"I don't think you should give Tommy a sword right now," she said. "Or any other weapon."

"I don't need a weapon," Tommy muttered, shooting another glare over at Will.

"Right," Tanya said slowly, eyeing Tommy. "Here you go, Rocky."

She turned and held the sword out to Rocky instead.

"I don't know that I should have this right now, either," he said, though he took the sword. "I've only had about two hours of sleep in the last twenty-four hours."

Tanya hesitated, glancing between Rocky and Tommy.

"Just don't hurt him, Adam," she said after a moment.

Rocky shrugged. Adam led the way over to the mats as everyone crowded in that direction. Will, who had been standing alone for a little while now, followed, too.

"JJ, come here," Tommy said as Will got closer to the group.

"What did I do?" JJ asked, stopping to look at his parents.

"Nothing," Tommy said. "Now come here."

JJ grumbled but listened and walked over to stand next to his parents. Marc stayed with them as well, keeping Tommy between himself and his mother since Jason was standing with Christine.

"If I'm not in trouble, then why do I have to come sit with you?" JJ muttered.

"You aren't in trouble," Kat sighed, glancing up at Tommy.

"No, he is," Hayley smirked, gesturing toward Will.

Jason, seeing his brother-in-law making his way over to the group, had gone to stand near him to make him move further away. Christine still followed.

"Oh," JJ said, frowning. "But that's Marc's Uncle Will."

"Stay away from him," Tommy said shortly.

JJ frowned, shifting closer to Hayley. She leaned down.

"Does this have anything to do with the reason mom kicked me out of the kitchen a couple of weeks ago?" he asked quietly. "And then wouldn't give dad back his keys? I only heard part of it through the door."

"JJ," Hayley scolded quietly. "You shouldn't be listening at doors. I taught you better—find a vent. Much better to listen through."

"It was the kitchen," he protested. "I would have had to run all the way upstairs and try and find one—they would have been done talking by then."

Hayley shook her head. Tommy shot her a look, but she just smirked back.

"JJ, go ahead and sit with the other kids," Kat said. "That way you can see Adam and Rocky better. Marc, you, too. Go sit."

Tommy scowled but didn't argue. Will was standing off to one side away from the rest of the group. Rocky and Adam had finished a quick stretch so they wouldn't hurt themselves. Taking up the swords, they started fighting. The kids cheered as they fought, excited to see the swords flashing back and forth.

The two men kept going for a while. Then Rocky mis-stepped and stumbled, nearly throwing the sword he was holding as he fell.

"Well, that was close," he said, sitting back up as Adam watched him in concern.

"And no more swords for Rocky," Aisha announced. "Not until he gets some more sleep."

Adam reached down to help Rocky up.

"You alright, man?" he asked.

"I'll survive," Rocky said. "Though if you were actually trying to kill me, I think I'd have been in trouble just then."

Adam laughed.

"I guess it's a good thing you usually get more sleep before you need to fight anyone," Adam grinned. "Since Tommy didn't say anything about you falling on your face that last time."

Rocky scowled but let Adam help him up. Behind Rocky, Rae had run forward and carefully grabbed the sword he dropped by the handle. It was heavy enough that she couldn't actually pick it up all the way. Instead, she dragged it behind her as she headed straight for Tommy where he was standing at the back of the crowd. She used both hands to half lift it up to him.

"Uncle Tommy, your turn," she smiled.

"I've been chosen," he said, smiling a little as he looked down at her. "Sorry, Rae. Not tonight."

She stared up at him, pouting her lip. He didn't say anything for a moment. Then he sighed, letting his arm fall from Kat's shoulder as he reached down to take the sword from her.

"Alright," he conceded. "Did your mom teach you to pout like that?"

"Yes," she said, nodding enthusiastically.

Shaking his head, Tommy started to head up to the mat. Kat smiled and shook her head.

"It's a good thing we had a boy," she said, looking at Trini. "Can you imagine how he would be if we had a girl?"

Trini laughed in agreement.

"He'd be wrapped around her finger," she said.

"You're telling me, he's bad enough spoiling JJ," Kat chuckled.

"Adam," Tommy said as he reached the mat, jerking his head back toward where Trini was standing with Kat.

Adam nodded as he caught what Tommy was asking. Still holding his sword, he glanced around.

"Jason," he said, walking over. "Here."

Jason stared at the sword Adam held out to him. Christine stared at the sword, clearly fighting to keep a scowl off her face. No one paid any attention to her.

"Umm… Adam," he said slowly. "I haven't used a sword in—a long time."

"You'll be fine," Adam grinned. "So, get up there."

Jason took the sword and walked up to the mat. Tommy was swinging his sword around, warming up while he waited. Jason stretched quickly, swinging the sword a couple of times himself to get a feel for it.

"I'm just going to say this again," he said as he and Tommy faced off against each other. "I haven't used a sword in a really long time. And from how comfortable you are, I'm not sure you ever stopped using one."

Tommy grinned.

"No, not really," he admitted.

"Muscle memory, Jason!" Zach yelled with a grin. "Just dodge him til it comes back—you've had practice doing that, too."

"And technically he did take a break from the sword," Rocky said. "He used some kind of staff for a while. Though I guess he used it like a sword…so maybe it still counts. I didn't see him use it much—it was the other guys mostly."

"It was a fancy sword," Hayley snorted.

"It was a staff," Tommy argued, shooting a glare at Rocky. "Now let Jason concentrate—we don't need him to hit himself."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence," Jason said drily.

Tommy made the first move, taking it slow so Jason could get back into working with a sword. After a few minutes, they were moving a lot more smoothly. Marc and JJ were both grinning in excitement as they watched their fathers together.

As Jason and Tommy were fighting, Damien got up and started wandering away. Karly, always watchful of her little brother, started to follow to try and stop him. He started running away from her and she started running, too. Lilla and Jazz, who had been sitting with Karly, started chasing as they giggled. The small group ran right past Adam, heading toward the snacks.

"Hey, slow down," he called after them. "And no snacks—it's almost dinner time."

He jogged a short way after them to make sure they were actually coming back as most of them slowed down. Will, who had wandered closer after Jason went up front, walked over to Trini now that she was standing alone with Kat.

"Hey there, sweet thing," he said with a grin, slinging his arm around her shoulders. "How about I protect you for a while?"

Trini didn't answer. Instead, she dropped low under his arm and twisted as she made a fist. Her strike hit Will directly in the diaphragm. He immediately dropped to the ground, gasping for air. Tommy, hearing the commotion, responded immediately. Acting on instinct, he disarmed Jason, sending his sword flying off to the side. Still holding his own sword, Tommy crossed the space between him and Trini quickly. He came to a stop next to her, the sword now pointing directly at Will who was still trying to breathe.

"Trini, are you alright?" Tommy asked, looking at her.

"Oh, I'm fine," she said, glaring at Will.

"Good—then why did you hit him?" Tommy demanded. "I have been waiting all night to hit him. This would have been the perfect excuse!"

"Will!" Christine interrupted, wailing. "Are you alright? Why did you hurt him?"

The sword in Tommy's hand was still pointed at Will's face. Tommy hadn't moved it while he checked on Trini. Tommy and Trini both ignored Christine. Everyone else was just watching the chaos unfold—most of them hoping that Tommy really would hit Will.

"You were a little busy," Trini said, crossing her arms. "And I can take care of myself, you know."

"I know that," Tommy said irritably. "But I'm your security…I'm supposed to get to hit him."

"Get that thing away from him," Christine exclaimed as she knelt next to her brother.

"What?" Tommy snapped, turning to look at her.

"You're going to hurt him again!" she snapped back. "Get it away from him."

Tommy snorted, still not moving the sword away. Will was finally starting to catch his breath, glaring up at Tommy and Trini.

Back on the mat, Jason hadn't moved. He had meant it when he said Will was going to deal with the consequences on his own and was just watching with his arms crossed. Rae, seeing Jason's sword lying on the ground, trotted over to pick it up. She dragged it back over to Jason.

"You dropped this," she said, holding it up as high as she could.

Jason took it, though he was still watching Tommy standing over Will as Christine screamed at him.

"Yeah, I dropped it," he muttered. "I never even saw that coming."

"Rae is just being nice," Izzy said, looking at Jason. "She really means Uncle Tommy beat you."

"It's a dull blade," Tommy was saying, glaring at Christine. "Most I could really do with it is maybe break his ribs if I hit him hard enough. But I'd let him up first—give him a fighting chance."

"Don't get up," Rocky quickly inserted. "Bad life choice. Stay down there."

Adam, who had come running straight back when the commotion started, walked over to Tommy.

"Give me the sword, Falcon," he said. "Don't hit him while he is already down."

He reached out to take the sword from Tommy. But Tommy didn't immediately let go. He held on for a moment while Adam tried to tug it away.

"Fine," he muttered after a moment.

Tommy let Adam take the sword.

"I'm going to go put these away," Adam said. "I think we should be done with weapons for the night."

"Aww…" JJ said. "But I wanted to see dad with a staff—he's good with those."

"Not tonight," Kat said, shaking her head. "No more weapons tonight."

Adam walked away with Tommy's sword. Taking the second one from Jason, he went to go put them away. Christine was still crouched next to her brother, fussing over him. Having mostly caught his breath, he waved her off and slowly got to his feet. Tommy stayed standing where he was, his arms crossed as he stared Will down.

"I'd stay down there, if I was you," Rocky said again. "This is a game you aren't going to win."

But Will ignored Rocky. Still breathing a little harder than normal, he finished getting to his feet and glared back at Tommy.

"You have been glaring at me like that since I walked in," Will snapped. "Is that look permanently stuck on your face? I'm sick of your tough guy routine and your threats."

He moved closer, getting in Tommy's face. No one moved, letting Will dig his own grave.

"Will," Christine hissed, tugging on his arm. "We aren't here to cause trouble, remember?"

"There's been a lot of big talk out of all of you," Will continued as he looked around, ignoring Christine. "But all I've seen is you showing off with your toy swords. You don't have what it takes to fight a real man. Lifting weights just makes you look cool. In a real street fight you wouldn't last a minute."

There was a collective grimace around the room from the rest of the rangers. Adam, who had just come back into the room again, winced and hurried over to try and help with damage control.

"Oh really?" Tommy said with a smirk. "And you know so much about it?"

"I grew up in a city," Will scoffed. "I know how to handle myself in a fight."

"Alright, fine," Tommy said. "Then show me. You want a match? Get on the mat."

He gestured over to the mat where he and Jason had been sword fighting only a short time before. Stalking away, Tommy moved onto the mat and started stretching as he waited for Will.

"Will," Jason said, shaking his head. "Don't be stupid. You are in way over your head."

"Don't worry, Jason," Will smirked, shooting a grin at him. "I won't hurt your friend much—I'm just going to pop his bubble. Show him what a real fight looks like. None of that fancy jumping and kicking you all seem to think is fighting."

Jason sighed, but he was done arguing. He stepped off the mat.

"Will!" Christine exclaimed. "What are you doing? This isn't why we are here."

"Relax, sis," Will said. "It's fine."

Tanya and Aisha, realizing this fight was really about to happen, quickly started gathering up their kids. A demonstration was one thing—an actual fight where there was a really good chance of someone getting hurt was another thing entirely.

"Come on, girls," Tanya said, grabbing Jazzy and Lilla's hands. "We're going to daddy's gym for a little while. We can play tag!"

Aisha scooped up Damien, knowing it was going to be easier than getting him to follow.

"Let's go, Karly," she said. "Liam, honey, come on."

"Fight, fight, fight!" JJ chanted, grinning.

He had made no move to leave the room even though Kat had shooed him once already. Marc was standing with him, looking between Tommy and Will nervously. Izzy and Rae were bouncing next to JJ.

"JJ!" Kat said firmly. "Out!"

"But mom…" JJ whined. "I want to watch dad fight…"

Tommy, hearing JJ arguing, whipped around.

"Jonathan James—out, now!" he snapped.

JJ stared at him with wide eyes for a moment. Then he grabbed Marc's arm and bolted, dragging the older boy after him. Marc protested a little.

"You don't argue when dad uses that tone," JJ said as he kept dragging Marc with him. "You just do or be grounded with extra chores till eternity."

Izzy, following JJ's example, grabbed Rae and followed behind the two boys.

Tommy had finished stretching. Now he was just standing, watching Will and ready to react. Will, who hadn't bothered to stretch, finally joined Tommy on the mat.

"Done stalling yet?" Will asked, smirking at Tommy. "Or did you need a little more time to work up some courage?"

Tommy didn't answer. He just crossed his arms, waiting. Will continued to throw some more insults around, getting closer to Tommy as he did and trying to antagonize him into throwing a punch. But Tommy continued to stay silent, watching for Will to make a move.

Finally, Will gave up and threw a punch of his own, trying to take Tommy by surprise. But Tommy was ready. Will's punch missed as Tommy shifted, but Tommy's strike connected. The heel of his palm hitting Will right in the face. Letting out a choked exclamation, Will stumbled back as he clutched his nose. Tommy watched him, arms crossed.

"You broke it!" Will snarled a moment later.

His nose was bleeding a little now. Tommy shook his head.

"It's not broken," he corrected. "I could have broken it. But I didn't."

"You got lucky!"

"No. I have self-control," Tommy countered. "Unlike you."

Mad now, Will threw himself at Tommy again. Tommy shifted back just enough to grab Will's arm and used the other man's momentum to throw him to the ground behind him. After dropping Will, Tommy turned and backed up a couple of steps and allowed Will to scramble to his feet.

"So that's how this is going to be now?" Will snapped. "You just gonna dodge everything and trip me? Afraid to actually let me get close?"

"Does he want to die?" Zach whispered to Kim. "Because I'm pretty sure Tommy is going to kill him if he keeps that commentary going."

"Well, I think he's probably justified at this point," Kim shrugged. "I'm certainly not going to try and stop him."

Will tried again. And, again, Tommy saw it coming and moved. Grabbing Will by the arm again, this time Tommy flipped him and Will hit the mat on his back. He grunted in pain and didn't get up for a moment. Tommy moved a few steps away again, watching as Will got back up—a little slower this time.

"Are you ever going to fight me?" Will snapped. "Or are you just going to keep pulling dirty tricks? You said you wanted to fight me—so fight me!"

This time, Will didn't try to hit Tommy. Instead, he ran at Tommy and tried grab him around the waist to knock him to the ground where he thought he'd have a better advantage. Tommy spun out of Will's reach and kicked his feet out from under him. This time Tommy followed him to the mat, quickly pinning him in an armbar. Will started struggling, trying to break Tommy's hold.

But Tommy didn't budge an inch. Will continued to struggle, trying anything he could to break free. So, Tommy tightened his grip and Will gasped in pain.

"Tap out," Tommy said firmly. "A couple more inches and I'll have dislocated your shoulder."

"Jason!" Christine exclaimed frantically. "You have to stop this!"

She had watched nervously but silently from the edge of the mat until Tommy had actually pinned Will. Now she was visibly panicking. Jason shrugged, not taking his eyes off the fight.

"I warned him," he said shortly. "There's nothing I can do at this point—he's on his own."

"But Jason!" Christine cried as Will grunted in pain again.

Tommy tightened his grip once more as Will tried to bite Tommy's leg in desperation.

"Agh!" Will exclaimed, crying out now.

"Tap out," Tommy ordered. "Tap out now or I break it. And I can break it."

Will struggled for another brief moment, then surrendered and tapped out. Tommy released him and got back to his feet. Will groaned. He slowly staggered to his feet, holding his arm, while Tommy watched with his arms crossed.

"There is always going to be someone bigger than you or stronger than you," Tommy said evenly. "Learn some humility or someday one of them is going to kill you."

Without another word, he walked away.

Christine ran to Will.

"He broke his arm!" she cried. "And his nose! And all of you just watched it happen."

Rocky walked over.

"Let me take a look," he said.

Christine glared at him as Rocky carefully examined Will's arm and face.

"Nothing is broken," he said after a moment. "Your nose will be fine after you stop the bleeding. And the shoulder is just dislocated. So, I can either put it back now or you can go to the ER and let them."

"Just do it," Will snarled.

The rest of the rangers had all walked away from the mat. Though none of them had gone after Tommy. They were all giving him some space for a few minutes to cool down.

"This is going to hurt," Rocky warned him.

He popped Will's shoulder back into place and Will grunted in pain again.

"Just take it easy with that arm," Rocky said. "And probably make an appointment with your doctor just to have it double checked."

"Aren't you going to give me anything for pain?" Will snapped irritably.

"No," Rocky said, raising an eyebrow. "I'm an off-duty paramedic, not a pharmacy. You want pain meds that's for you to figure out."

Will scowled. Hayley wandered over.

"You dropped this," she said, holding something out to Will.

He turned to look at her with a frown. She was holding his phone in her hand. Will took it, eying her suspiciously.

"Something is wrong with it," she said. "You really should get it checked."

Will tried to turn it on, but nothing happened.

"It had a full battery," he said. "Why won't it turn on?"

Hayley shrugged.

"No idea," she said, smirking a little. "Like I said—get it checked."

Rocky choked, stifling a laugh, as Hayley turned and walked away. Rocky excused himself to let Tanya and Aisha know the fight was over.

"I can't take you or Tommy anywhere," Kat sighed as Hayley rejoined her and Billy. "You just can't help yourself—can you?"

"What?" Hayley said. "He deserves it."

"While I can't argue with that," Kat said. "Did you have to infect his phone with whatever virus you just planted?"

"You have no proof," Hayley retorted.

Around the room, everyone started to settle down now that the fight was over. The kids all came running back into the room, excited to be able to run around the big gym again. JJ was still pouting about missing the fight.

Kim recruited Jason, Zach, Adam, and Rocky to help her and Jake bring in the food that had been delivered a short time before so they didn't have to make multiple trips. Aisha and Tanya joined Kat, Trini, Hayley, and Billy wanting to know what happened after they left the room. Tommy hadn't rejoined the group. He had found a corner of the room where he could watch, leaning against the wall.

"I still can't believe all of you just watched and let him do this to me," Will complained to Kat and the others as he and Christine walked past the food table, heading for a table to sit at out of the way.

He had tissue pressed to his nose now, getting the bleeding under control.

"And I can't believe Tommy let you actually walk away," Kim retorted. "He could have and should have left you unconscious on the mat."

She had walked up to the group just in time to hear Will's complaint. She had her hand on her hip, smirking at Will. He scowled back.

"Well, he tends to avoid permanent injuries unless absolutely necessary," Kat pointed out. "He does have some self-control."

"I wouldn't have been that nice," Aisha said. "But it would have been a short fight. One well-placed kick to the groin…"

She smirked at Will. He glared and Christine dragged him away by his uninjured arm. The siblings cornered Jason as he came back from setting food on the table.

"Why didn't you help me?" Will demanded. "He could have killed me!"

Jason sighed, crossing his arms.

"Will, I warned you," he said shortly. "But you wouldn't believe me. And you're right—he could have. But he was nice and let you up with just a bloody nose and a dislocated arm."

"That's not nice!" Will exclaimed.

"He could have broken your arm," Jason pointed out. "Or worse. So, stop fishing for sympathy. You aren't going to get any here. So why don't you both just leave?"

Jason walked away without another word. He was mad at Will for antagonizing the whole situation. Will and Christine found a seat at one of the far tables by themselves where they could talk without being heard—not that anyone was seeking them out for conversation. Most of them were getting food—or getting food for their kids and trying to get them to sit down and eat.

"Are you sure you are alright?" Christine asked, fussing over him still.

"I'm fine," he snapped. "Would you just get it over with so we can leave?"

"Fine," she snapped back. "Then can you stay here and not draw any more attention to us?"

"Yes," he said shortly. "Now go do it while no one is watching. Tommy is talking to one of the little brats."

Over in the corner, Tommy's space had been invaded by Rae.

"Uncle Tommy?" she said, reaching up and tugging on his shirt. "Will you come play with us?"

He glanced down at her.

"Not right now, honey," he said. "Maybe later tonight. Alright?"

"Please?" she asked. "I love you."

She hugged his leg, pouting as she looked up at him. Tommy sighed.

"You are a manipulative little girl—and you get it from your mother," he said, shaking his head.

He crouched down next to her.

"Tell you what," he said. "How about you ride on my shoulders, and we can play spy?"

"Ok!" Rae agreed excitedly.

Tommy scooped her up and set her on his shoulders as he straightened up.

"Alright," he said. "Ready to go?"

"Let's go!" she laughed. "What do I spy?"

"How about you just watch and tell me if you see anything weird, alright?" he said. "Especially from the two people you don't know."

"Ok!" she happily agreed as he headed across the room.

Jason was talking with Kim and Jake when Christine came walking up.

"Jason!" she said brightly, interrupting the conversation. "I brought you a drink."

She held out one of the two glasses she was holding to him. He looked at it hesitantly instead of immediately taking it.

"What is it?" he asked.

"I got you your favorite," Christine said.

"Oh," he said. "Well, thanks but I'm not—"

"It's just the way you like it," she insisted, still holding out the cup.

Jason sighed but took the cup. He still hadn't talked with anyone except Tommy about avoiding alcohol. So, there wasn't much he could do to refuse the drink without an explanation. And he really didn't want to explain it to Christine at that moment.

"Thanks," he said.

Christine looked at him expectantly. Knowing what she was waiting for, Jason pretended to take a sip of the drink without actually drinking anything. Christine smiled.

"So, what are you talking about?" Christine asked, staying next to Jason.

"Umm… Just some stuff from high school," Kim said, exchanging a look with Jason. "Nothing special."

"Just some embarrassing stories about Kim and Jason," Jake said quickly.

"Oh, I'd love to hear stories about you in high school, Jason," Christine exclaimed.

He looked at her in surprise.

"Really?" he said. "You've never been interested before."

"Of course I am," she said. "I'm trying to be more involved, remember? For us."

"Umm… okay," Jason said slowly.

"So, was he a ladies' man in high school?" Christine asked, turning back to Kim. "Were all the girls chasing after him? I know he gets looks now."

Kim snickered at the look on Jason's face at Christine's question.

"Well, sort of," she said. "Honestly, Tommy was more a ladies' man than Jason was. Not that he was trying to be. It just kind of happened."

"Tommy?" Christine said in disbelief. "Really? Why would you say that?"

"She's not wrong," Jason chuckled, shaking his head.

"I dated him for a long time," Kim said, shrugging.

Christine stared at Kim in surprise and then looked at Jake.

"And you are ok with that?" she asked. "With them being around each other?"

"Yeah," Jake said. "They're friends. Why would I have a problem with it?"

"Because they are exes?" Christine said slowly.

"We dated for a few years in high school," Kim said, wrapping her arm around Jake's and leaning against him. "But we both moved on a long time ago—and neither of us has any desire to revisit that part of our relationship. We are just friends. He's practically my brother."

"Besides," Jake said with a grin. "Tommy is a great source of embarrassing stories about Kim—it's great for blackmail."

"I do slightly regret introducing the two of you," she sighed, shaking her head.

"Hey, that's not the only reason to keep him around," Jake protested. "I could always hire him to protect you—he has the training apparently."

Kim raised an eyebrow.

"Not that you need it," he said quickly. "But Tommy always seems to have someone around who could back him up. So, it would be great added protection."

Kim rolled her eyes.

"Wait a minute," Jake frowned.

"What's wrong?" Jason asked.

"I just realized—I'll be right back," Jake said, glancing around the room.

He dropped a kiss on the top of Kim's head and then hurried away. She watched him go, a little confused.

"Anyways," she said, turning back to Jason and Christine. "Anyone hungry?"

Jake hurried across the room to where Tommy was talking with Trini and Billy. Rae was still on his shoulders.

"It was you," he said to Tommy, interrupting the conversation. "You sent him. You've known him this whole time."

Tommy stopped and turned to look at Jake.

"You are going to need to clarify," Tommy said. "Starting with who and when. And maybe why."

"The charity banquet in New York," Jake said. "You sent Conner over. You're the mutual acquaintance he mentioned."

"Oh, right," Tommy said. "Yes. I did that."

"Why?" Jake asked.

"Well, he was closer than I was," Tommy said with a shrug. "And I knew you had already met him, so it made more sense than just sending Kira or Trent—they would have had more explaining to do."

"I forgot you know them, too," Jake said, shaking his head. "Just how close are you with the three of them that you text them and they help you from across the country?"

"Close enough," Tommy said vaguely. "I've known all three of them since their senior year in high school. I was their… mentor. We spent a lot of time together. Now we're friends."

Billy and Trini shared amused looks. Jake groaned as another realization dawned on him.

"You were at the game for Conner, not Anton—weren't you?" he asked.

"Yep," Tommy chuckled. "I hadn't been in a while and it was a close game, so I took JJ and the rest of the group with me."

Jake sighed.

"I should have caught that…" he muttered.

Across the room, Jason and Christine had slowly wandered with Kim towards the food after Jake ran to talk to Tommy.

"Do you need more ice, Jason?" Christine asked. "You've only taken a sip of your drink."

He glanced down at the cup in his hand.

"Oh, no," he said quickly. "It's fine."

He pretended to take another sip, trying to figure out the best way to ditch the drink without upsetting her. Seeing Aisha trying to balance several plates for her kids, Jason excused himself from his wife and hurried over to help. Rocky was trying to keep all three of their kids sitting in their seats while they waited for food.

"Let me help with that," Jason said, setting his cup down on the back of the table and reaching for a plate.

"Thanks, Jason," Aisha said gratefully.

He helped her carry the plates to the table. Jason stayed there for a few minutes, talking to Rocky and the kids. After a few minutes, he left them to eat their dinner and went to go get something for himself. But as he walked toward the table, Christine came hurrying toward him.

"You forgot this," she said, holding out his cup.

Jason almost grimaced but stopped himself.

"Oh, thanks," he said, taking it from her and staring at it for a moment.

Christine just watched him expectantly. Trini paused as she walked by.

"Are you planning on eating?" she asked. "Or did you finish already?"

Jason shook his head.

"Not yet," he answered. "I was about to go get something though."

"I'll get you something," Christine volunteered. "You go sit down. Go on."

She rushed away without waiting for an answer. Jason sighed.

"Well, she certainly seems eager to please right now," Trini said, watching her go. "Guess you had better go sit."

Jason glared at Trini, but she just smirked and walked away to get her own food. Alone, Jason sighed and looked back at the cup in his hand. He glanced around, trying to decide if he could get away with spilling it somewhere that wouldn't make too much of a mess. Christine wasn't looking, but she wouldn't be gone too long.

"Everything alright?" Tommy asked behind him.

Jason jumped, nearly spilling the drink all over himself.

"Geez, man," he said. "What are you doing sneaking up on me like that?"

Tommy grinned, moving to stand in front of Jason. Rae was on his shoulders giggling and he was holding a cup in his hand. The six-year-old had her phone out.

"Maybe you should be paying more attention," he said. "Right, Rae?"

"You should always be aware of your surroundings," Rae parroted from his shoulders as she played with her phone.

"See," Tommy said.

He paused, frowning at the cup in Jason's hand.

"Jase, that's not what I think it is—is it?" he asked.

"Yes, it is," Jason sighed. "But it's not a problem."

Tommy raised an eyebrow.

"I mean I don't plan to drink it," Jason hurried to explain. "Christine gave it to me, and I haven't been able to get rid of it yet."

"If you don't want it, why don't you just dump it?" Tommy asked.

"Because it will just upset her," Jason sighed. "This is what she does when she is trying to make me happy. She gets me things she knows I like. Mostly my favorite dinner—or a drink I like. And if I don't show my appreciation, she takes it personally and gets upset… so if I dump it while she is watching…"

Jason trailed off with a shrug.

"Uh-huh," Tommy said doubtfully. "That doesn't seem like she is doing it for you then, Jase."

"Hey, at least she is trying," Jason protested. "And this really is trying for her. And she's been good tonight. Will is the one causing problems."

Tommy snorted.

"If you say so," he said, shaking his head. "But alright. Let me help you out then."

"Help?" Jason said. "How?"

"Rae, is she watching?" Tommy asked.

Rae twisted around to look and then leaned down.

"Nope," she said. "The mean lady isn't looking."

Jason frowned, but Tommy ignored the look.

"Here," Tommy said.

He quickly took the alcohol from Jason and handed Jason the cup he had been holding. Jason looked at the new cup in surprise.

"And how is this going to help?" he asked, eyeing the contents of the cup Tommy had given him.

"Because it's not alcohol," Tommy said. "So, you drink that, and I'll drink yours. Christine didn't see us switch cups, so she will still think you drank what she brought you because our cups look the same. She'll be happy and you don't have to worry about having a reaction—problem solved."

"Thanks, Falcon," Jason said gratefully, glancing in the cup. "But… what is this?"

"It's juice," Tommy said. "But I'd drink it quickly before she gets a look in your cup. And sorry about the taste."

"The taste?" Jason repeated. "What does that mean?"

"It means the juice is nutritious—not that it tastes good," Tommy said drily. "It's a bit of an acquired taste. Watch him, Rae. He'll probably make a funny face on the first drink."

"Ok!" Rae giggled fiddled with her phone.

Jason frowned, looking at the cup.

"She's coming, Uncle Tommy," Rae said.

"Go on, Jase," Tommy said. "Drink up while she can see you."

Jason took a drink and choked, nearly spitting it out. Rae burst out laughing.

"I warned you," Tommy chuckled.

"Why are you drinking this?" Jason sputtered.

"Again—it's healthy," Tommy said. "Finish it up. I'm going to get Rae food before Hayley comes to hunt us down."

Jason took another gulp as Tommy turned to walk away. He fought a grimace as he quickly finished the contents of the cup just in time for Christine to walk up with a plate in her hands.

"I brought you food," she said, smiling. "How is your drink? Did you want something else?"

"I'll just grab some water," Jason said, taking the plate and letting her take his empty cup. "Listen, Christine…"

"Yes?" she said with a smile.

"Why don't you head home?" Jason said. "I really appreciate that you've been trying tonight. And thank you for getting me food. But I'd really like to spend the rest of the evening just relaxing with my friends. Plus, Will is probably still in pain. You should take him home and find him something to help."

"Oh," Christine said. "I mean… I guess if that's what you want…"

"I'm just not ready to jump all the way back in," Jason said, shaking his head. "This was a start. And we can keep working on it. But I want to take it slow and not just go right back to where we were before. I want it to be better for both of us. Alright?"

"Alright," she sighed. "But you'll call me tomorrow?"

"I will call you tomorrow," Jason promised. "Now get Will out of here before he makes someone else mad. Because the next person probably will break something."

Christine gave Jason a quick hug and then spun, hurrying over to her brother. Jason went to sit down as they left the building.

After walking away from Jason, Tommy downed the contents of the cup he had taken from him in one go. He grimaced, coughing a little at the taste.

"Are you ok?" Rae asked, leaning down.

"I'm fine," he answered, tossing the cup in the trash. "I just should have drunk that a little slower."

"Look, Uncle Tommy," she said, holding her phone in front of his face. "I got a funny video of Jason. This is the part where he drinks it."

Tommy stopped for a moment to look at the clip she showed him.

"Good job," he chuckled. "That's a great video. We'll show him later, alright?"

"Ok!" she beamed.

"Alright, kiddo," Tommy said, picking up a plate. "What do you want to eat?"

Five minutes later, Tommy had finished putting together a plate for Rae and was plopping her in a chair next to her sister.

"Thank you, Tommy," Billy said.

"Anytime," Tommy nodded, crouching down next to Rae's chair. "Thanks for spying for me. You did a good job."

Rae beamed at him as she started eating.

"You should go get something to eat, too," Hayley said, looking at Tommy from across the table. "Before the kids and Rocky eat it all."

"I'm not competing with Conner," Tommy said. "So, I'm less concerned. But I'm going."

As he straightened up, Tommy grimaced a little.

"Is something wrong, Tommy?" Billy asked, frowning.

Tommy waved him off.

"Just a cramp," he said. "It's fine."

He started walking over to the food table, but his stomach wasn't settling. Stopping, Tommy shook his head.

"I'll wait a little while," he muttered. "I really shouldn't have chugged that drink."

Kat, walking by to get something to drink, stopped next to him and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

"Are you going to eat or just wander around all night?" she asked.

"In a little bit," he said. "I'm not really hungry right now."

Kat frowned, looking up at him.

"Alright," she said slowly. "I thought you'd be hungry by now since you haven't eaten anything in a few hours. Just don't wait too long or all of the good food will be gone."

"I won't," he promised, giving her a kiss on the cheek. "Go finish your dinner. I'm going to go stretch for a while—I'm just a little tense still."

"If you say so," Kat said.

She walked away to go get her drink and Tommy headed to the other side of the room where the mats were still laid out.

About another ten minutes later, Rocky and Zach walked over to where Tommy was still doing some slow stretching on the mats. They had finished eating and wandered over to see what he was doing.

"I didn't see you eat dinner," Rocky said, eying Tommy who was currently sitting on the ground.

"That's because I didn't yet," Tommy said, slowly climbing to his feet. "I needed to stretch out some cramps, first."

"So, that means now is the perfect time to take advantage of you," Zach grinned. "You'll be hungry and distracted."

Tommy scoffed, pausing to take a breath.

"Not that distracted," he said, shaking his head.

"You need to relax, Tommy," Rocky said. "They left. You don't have to be on guard anymore."

"I'm working on it," Tommy muttered.

"Want to work out some of that built up aggression?" Rocky asked. "You can hit Zach—you don't get to hit him very often. I think you should introduce him to some of your newer kicks."

Zach frowned, looking between Tommy and Rocky.

"I'm not sure I like the sound of that," he said slowly. "How about you demonstrate on Rocky, and I'll decide after I see them?"

Tommy just stood there listening in amusement as Rocky and Zach argued back and forth for a few moments. Several of the kids, done with their dinner, came running over to resume their play in the corner. They chased each other around, screaming and laughing.

"Tommy?" Rocky said, trying to get his attention.

"Sorry," Tommy said quickly, shaking his head and turning his attention to his friends. "What was that?"

"I asked if you wanted to work on some kicks or something," Rocky frowned. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah, I'm fine," Tommy said. "Who am I hitting?"

"I would prefer Zach," Rocky said. "It's been a while since you beat on him. You use me as a target all the time."

"Hey, I'm not that easy of a target," Zach protested. "Just because I don't really do karate anymore doesn't mean I can't defend myself."

"Sure, Zach," Tommy said with a slight smirk. "Whatever you say. But I'd like to see you prove it."

Zach protested, but Rocky gave him a shove toward Tommy who moved into a kick. He moved a little slower than normal, but Zach still nearly tripped trying to get out of the way.

"I wasn't ready," Zach exclaimed.

"Too late," Rocky laughed.

Rocky and Tommy started pushing Zach around a little, goading him into using fighting skills he hadn't used in a long time. Laughing and having fun, neither Rocky nor Zach noticed Tommy slowing down as they continued. There were a few times Zach nearly got a hit in on Tommy. But since they were all just goofing around, it didn't seem off.

With everyone else done eating by this time, people were starting to pay attention to the three men play fighting. Some had wandered over to watch while others were still sitting at the tables chatting. The kids were still playing. They chased each other back and forth around the area where Rocky, Tommy, and Zach were.

Rocky knocked Zach off his feet, laughing as he hit the ground. Zach tried to kick Rocky back from where he was but missed. Starting to scramble to his feet, Zach tried the same thing on Tommy who had stopped paying attention. Zach's kick connected, knocking Tommy off his feet. Tommy hit the ground hard and lay there for a moment, not moving. Everyone who had been watching stared in surprise. Even goofing around Tommy didn't usually just let someone knock him down. They had to work for it.

"You alright, man?" Zach asked, back on his feet now. "I did not mean to do that."

Tommy didn't answer, he just muttered something they didn't understand and stayed where he was. His eyes were closed, and he had a grimace on his face like he was in some pain.

"Tommy?" Rocky said, concerned when Tommy didn't immediately get back to his feet. "Tommy, are you alright?"

Adam, who had been sitting at the table talking to Jason, got up and started jogging toward them. Jason followed him. Rocky crouched down next to Tommy while Zach stood watching in concern.

"Tommy, are you hurt?" Rocky asked. "Can you get up?"

"I'm fine," Tommy mumbled, his eyes still closed. "Just give me a minute."

"Aisha—get my bag please," Rocky called, not taking his eyes off Tommy.

Kat, hearing Rocky's request, immediately rushed toward her husband. JJ, who had been goofing off with Marc, stopped what he was doing to see what was wrong with his father. Adam stopped next to Rocky who was still focused on Tommy as he finally started to sit up.

"I'm fine," Tommy muttered again, rubbing a hand over his face as he sat.

He looked up at Rocky and frowned. He blinked a few times and a look of panic flashed across his face. Rocky saw the panic and reached out to steady Tommy.

"Tommy, is everything alri—"

Before Rocky could touch Tommy—or even finish his question—Tommy punched Rocky in the jaw. Rocky lost his balance and went tumbling backward, grunting in pain from the hit. Now everyone was paying attention. Adam crouched down to check on Rocky as Zach looked at Tommy in surprise.

"What did you do that for, man?" Zach exclaimed as Tommy rolled to his feet. "I'm the one who knocked you down, not him. It was an accident."

He took a step towards Tommy who took a step back.

"Tommy?" he said. "Seriously—what are you doing?"

Tommy didn't answer. Instead, he kicked Zach's feet out from underneath him. Zach hit the mat with a grunt, barely rolling out of the way of a follow-up strike by Tommy.

"What are you doing?" Zach yelped, scrambling backward.

"Dad?" JJ exclaimed, coming up behind Tommy. "Dad, what are you doing?"

He grabbed the back of Tommy's shirt to get his attention. Tommy paled, the panic on his face returning.

"JJ?" he exclaimed. "What are you doing here? You shouldn't be here!"

Reaching behind him, Tommy grabbed JJ by the arm and pushed his son further behind him. He kept hold of JJ's arm so he could keep him close.

"Stay behind me," he ordered, his head whipping back and forth. "I'll get us out of here. I won't let anyone take you again—I promise."

Adam had helped Rocky back to his feet now, and both men were watching Tommy with growing concern.

"Something is wrong," Rocky said quietly.

Adam nodded. He moved slowly toward Tommy, wary of getting within his reach.

"Tommy, what's going on?" Adam asked cautiously.

"Stay back!" Tommy warned. "I'm not falling for your tricks."

He had taken up a defensive position, keeping JJ firmly behind him. The kids had stopped playing now and were watching with wide eyes. The rest of the rangers had started moving toward the commotion as well, concerned by what was happening.

"Dad, what is going on?" JJ said, trying to tug his arm away.

"I can't explain right now," Tommy said shortly. "But they're called tyrannadrones—we need to get out of here. It isn't safe for you."

Adam and Rocky stared at Tommy in shock. That was not what they expected to hear from him. Kat paled, freezing in place for a moment. Hayley ran closer with Billy right on her heels, but she stayed well out of Tommy's reach. Billy put himself between her and Tommy—he didn't want Hayley getting hit like Rocky had.

"What's a tyrannadrone?" JJ was asking. "That's not a dinosa—"

"It's a monster," Tommy snapped. "I'll explain later."

"Get the kids out now!" Trini ordered as she strode forward to stand with Billy, looking at Aisha and Tanya. "Jake and Kim—help them."

The three rangers, with help from Jake, ran to the kids. They avoided Tommy as they did. He tracked their movement, making sure to keep himself between them and JJ. Tanya and Kim each grabbed one of the twins. Aisha dropped Rocky's bag, caught Damien, and scooped him up, grabbing Liam by the hand. Karly just followed her mother without question. Jake grabbed Izzy and Rae, scooping both of them up as they protested. All of them immediately raced from the room with the kids in tow.

"Marc, go with them," Jason ordered, seeing his son still standing there.

"But dad—"

"Now!" Jason ordered. "Get out!"

Marc bolted from the room without further argument. Jason didn't usually yell at him, and the tone of voice he used didn't leave room for argument this time.

"Tommy," Kat pleaded, approaching cautiously. "Tommy, honey, you've got to calm down. There's nothing here."

"Kat?" Tommy cried, looking around. "Kat—where are you?"

"I'm right here," Kat said, moving a few steps closer.

Tommy looked in the direction of her voice, but he wasn't seeing her.

"Dad, she's right there!" JJ exclaimed.

"It's a trick," Tommy snapped. "Don't fall for it. I promise I will find her."

"Tommy, please," Kat said. "You have to listen—there is nothing here. It's just us."

Tommy shook his head.

"No, I'm not falling for it," he growled.

"She's telling you the truth, Tommy," Trini said, moving to stand next to Kat. "There is nothing here except us."

"No!" Tommy shouted. "I can see them—you're one of them and I'm not going to fall for it. I won't let you take JJ, too. Now let Kat go!"

"Dad, no one has her," JJ insisted. "Mom is right there. Why can't you see her?"

Tommy shook his head, ignoring JJ's question.

"JJ, just stay calm, sweetheart," Kat said to him. "Everything is going to be fine."

He peered out from behind Tommy with wide eyes, nodding. Everyone could see he was freaked out by what was happening and fighting a potential panic attack. Tommy was breathing hard now, his eyes darting around as he looked for an escape from what he was seeing.

"We have got to calm him down," Rocky muttered. "Something is seriously wrong—and it's getting worse."

"I have an idea," Hayley hissed quietly so only Billy could hear her. "Billy, tell them to hold still for a moment."

"Stay where you are, everyone," Billy ordered quietly.

She and Billy were standing by Rocky and Adam. Ducking behind Billy, Hayley took out her phone and fiddled with it for a moment.

"Tommy?" she said into her phone. "Tommy—are you there?"

To everyone's surprise, her voice came out of the communicator Tommy was wearing on his wrist. He instantly responded.

"Hayley!" he exclaimed.

"Tommy, what is going on?" she asked, still talking to him through the communicator. "I'm not getting any readings."

"They're back, Hayley," he said frantically. "The tyrannadrones are back—I've got to get them out of here. I need help—I'm surrounded and I don't have my—I don't anything with me."

He hesitated, glancing at JJ. Even in a believed emergency he didn't want to tell JJ he was still able to morph as a ranger unless necessary.

"Them?" Hayley questioned. "What are you talking about Tommy?"

"JJ is here," Tommy said. "I've got to get him out of here so I can get Kat back. They took her, Hayley. I can't lose her—but I can't let them take JJ again. And I can't fight them with him right here—he'll get hurt."

Kat looked at Hayley who just shook her head. Biting her lip, Kat waited with clenched fists to see if Hayley could talk Tommy down.

"I'll call for help, Tommy," Hayley said. "But it's going to take them a few minutes to get there. Just stay calm—is there somewhere you can hide until the kids get there?"

"No," Tommy snapped. "I'm surrounded. There are too many of them to fight with JJ here—he might get hurt. I need to get him out now!"

"I'm working on it," Hayley said before whispering to Billy. "We need to get everyone out of here, but Tommy can't hear you order their retreat. He has to think it just happened. Then maybe he'll find a spot to hide JJ."

While talking to Hayley, Tommy had become a little distracted. Adam, seeing an opportunity, slowly moved closer.

"Adam, wait," Hayley hissed, seeing Adam move out of the corner of her eye. "Don't—"

But her warning came too late. Adam, reaching out a hand to JJ, had gotten too close to Tommy. Feeling JJ shift toward Adam, Tommy's attention turned back in that direction. Briefly letting go of JJ, Tommy grabbed Adam by the arm and pulled. He used the momentum to throw Adam into the wall behind him. Adam hit the wall hard and slid to the ground, not moving for a moment as he got his bearings.

Kat took that chance to do what Adam had been trying to do. She lunged forward, yelling for JJ as she did. Catching hold of him, she pulled him away from Tommy. JJ threw his arms around his mother's neck and clung tightly to her as she stumbled back from Tommy.

"No!" Tommy shouted, reaching for JJ and finding him gone. "Let him go you monsters!"

He threw himself straight at Kat and JJ, who had only made it a few steps away. Kat spun, turning her back on her husband and shielding JJ from Tommy. But Rocky threw himself in Tommy's path, putting his arms up and blocking the strike with a grunt.

"Get out of here!" he snapped at Kat as he continued to block Tommy's frantic strikes. "Now!"

"Mom, what's wrong with dad?" JJ cried as Kat hauled him out of range of the fight.

"I don't know," she said. "But it's going to be alright. Just stay with me."

She crouched, hugging him tightly to her as she watched Rocky struggling to contain Tommy—who was not holding back at all anymore. Trini shifted to stand between them and the fight. Adam, who had finally gotten back up, and Jason moved forward to try and help Rocky try and pin Tommy. Billy was still covering Hayley who was desperately trying to get Tommy's attention through his communicator again.

"Tommy—what is going on?" Hayley demanded. "You have to talk to me!"

"They're gone!" Tommy cried. "The tyrannadorones took them and I couldn't stop it—again!"

"Help is on the way," Hayley said, trying to stall. "Just hold on."

"It's too late," Tommy exclaimed, panting. "I have to get out of here so I can find them."

"Tommy—don't!" Hayley said.

But it was too late. Tommy landed a hard blow to Rocky's chest, dropping him to the ground as he gasped for air. Then he bolted, racing from the room before anyone could stop him. Adam and Jason immediately gave chase. Rocky didn't move for a moment, just trying to breathe.

"Idiots!" Hayley snapped as she watched them go. "They'll never catch him like that."

Billy pulled his car keys out of his pocket as Hayley typed quickly on her phone.

"Go," he said. "Find him."

Hayley grabbed the keys and started running out the door. Kat, still holding JJ, hesitated. She was torn between staying with her son and chasing after her husband. Trini solved the problem. She jumped forward and put an arm around JJ's shoulders.

"Go, Kat," she said. "I'll stay with JJ. Go!"

Kat didn't argue. She leapt to her feet and sprinted from the room after Hayley. Rocky had forced himself back to his feet, too. Stumbling over to where Aisha had dropped his paramedic bag, he grabbed it and ran as fast as he could manage out the door after the two women.

Rocky caught them as Hayley was starting the van. Kat was already in the front seat.

"Get in!" Hayley snapped.

Rocky yanked the back door open and threw himself in. He had barely gotten the door shut when Hayley took off.

"Did you see which way he went?" Rocky gasped, trying to breathe and steady himself between the seats.

He couldn't sit in either one of the middle seats because one had a car seat and the other had a booster seat for Hayley and Billy's girls.

"No, but I have GPS," Hayley said, alternating between looking at her phone and looking at the road.

It was fairly dark out at this point in the evening, though they hadn't lost all of the light.

"You have GPS on Tommy?" Rocky exclaimed.

"Don't ask questions right now!" Hayley snapped. "I need to concentrate."

A few blocks away from the dojo they found Jason standing and looking around in frustration, breathing hard. He had lost Tommy and Adam and was trying to decide which way to go. Hayley slammed her breaks, squealing to a stop next to him.

"Get in or I'll leave you here!" she shouted as Rocky yanked the door open and got out of the way.

Jason didn't hesitate. He threw himself in the van and scrambled into the backseat as Rocky yanked the door shut again. Hayley sped off once more down the street, concentrating on following the moving symbol on her phone.

A few turns later, they found Adam. He was jogging down the street, still actively searching for Tommy. Hearing the van approaching, he glanced back. Recognizing Hayley's van, he turned and ran toward them. Rocky pulled the door open before Hayley even stopped, yelling for Adam to get in.

"He lost me on purpose," Adam panted as he scrambled into the back with Jason. "He had no idea who I was. It was like he was trying to escape—well, a tyrannadrone."

"I'll try and convince him to stop," Hayley said. "But if he doesn't recognize any of us on sight right now you are going to have a hard time getting him in this van if he is still conscious. So, I hope all of you are ready for a fight."

"We'll worry about that when we get there," Rocky said grimly.

Hayley tapped a few things on her phone and motioned for them to be quiet as she continued to try and follow Tommy with her van. It was difficult because he was able to cut through yards and around buildings while Hayley was restricted to the roads. Sitting in the passenger seat, Kat was quiet. Her hands were in her lap, tightly gripping the lap belt.

"Tommy!" Hayley called through her phone again. "Tommy—where are you going?"

"I—I have to get away," he responded, breathing heavily. "They're chasing me…"

"Then hide!" Hayley snapped.

"Can't," he responded. "Need to get clear—then go back for Kat and JJ once I have help."

"Then let me help!" Hayley said, exasperated. "I'll come get you if you would just stop moving! I can open a portal if I can figure out where you are."

"If… if I stop," Tommy panted. "If I stop… they'll catch…catch me and—I won't be able… to rescue JJ and Kat…"

Hayley groaned, hitting the mute button so he couldn't hear her for a moment.

"Why does he have to be logical right now?" she muttered.

"He's always been logical in a crisis," Adam pointed out.

"One word—coma!" Hayley snapped back. "So, I beg to differ."

"Coma?" Jason repeated, confused by the reference.

He still didn't even know what a tyrannadrone was, but he figured now was not the time to ask.

"Later," Hayley said, dismissing his question as she turned her phone off mute.

"Hayley, I can't… I can't find it," Tommy cried. "Where is it?"

"Where is what, Tommy?" she asked. "Where are you going?"

"The lab… if I can make it there," he said. "The woods…"

"Woods?" Hayley hissed at the rangers. "Are there even woods here?"

"Yes!" Rocky exclaimed, leaning into the front between the seats. "Turn here! I can get us there faster than following Tommy's path."

Rocky started calling off turns even as they continued to keep an eye on Tommy's location on the phone. Hayley continued to try and talk to him, but Tommy's answers were coming slower and slower. He was also slowing down. And as Hayley skidded to a stop near a wooded area, they all realized he had actually stopped moving and he wasn't answering Hayley anymore.

"Let's go!" Rocky shouted.

He was out of the van before it had stopped all the way, his bag on his shoulder and Adam hot on his heels. Rocky snatched Hayley's phone on his way out and used it to lead him to Tommy. Hayley, Kat, and Jason followed a little more slowly. They stayed close enough to be able to follow the sounds of Rocky and Adam running and their voices.

By the time they actually caught Adam and Rocky, they had found Tommy. He had collapsed and wasn't moving. They were on the ground next to him and Rocky was checking his pulse.

"Rocky, is he—" Jason started to ask.

Kat gasped, stopping in place as her hand flew up to her mouth.

"No!" Rocky snapped. "But we need to move him now."

"Shouldn't we call an ambulance?" Jason exclaimed.

"Adam, grab his legs," Rocky ordered. "I have his head. Jason—we can't wait for an ambulance to find us in the middle of the woods in the dark."

The two men picked Tommy up between them as carefully as they could.

"Just grab my bag, Rex," Rocky said. "Whatever this is, Tommy's heart rate is through the roof. He could have a heart attack if we don't get him help right now. We have wheels—so let's go."

They started moving back through the trees as quickly as they could carrying Tommy. But it still took them several minutes more to get back than it did to reach him. Jason ran ahead to open the door as Kat and Hayley quickly climbed back into the front. To get out of the way, Jason scrambled into the backseat with Rocky's bag. Rocky and Adam laid Tommy across the floor of the van as best they could before climbing in themselves and getting the doors shut. Adam crammed himself back into the backseat with Jason. Rocky crouched between the two middle seats so he could still reach Tommy—he was muttering to himself as he continued to monitor Tommy's vitals.

"If I didn't know any better," he mumbled. "I'd be calling this an overdose… not that I can help that without the ambulance…I don't have anything in my bag."

"Rocky, what can I—" Hayley started to ask.

"Just drive!" Rocky snapped.

Hayley floored the gas, heading toward the hospital. Kat was twisted around in the front seat now, watching Rocky with Tommy.

"Rocky—Rocky, he's not breathing!" she cried.

"I'm working on it, Kat," he said, trying not to snap at her. "But he's crashing—I need my ambu bag!"

Jason, still holding Rocky's paramedic bag, started to hand him the whole thing.

"The balloon thing with the mask, Jason!" Rocky snapped.

Adam snatched the bag from Jason and quickly fished out the ambu bag, tossing it to Rocky.

"Adam, I need you up here to hold his head," Rocky said as he caught it and turned back to Tommy. "It's going to be a tight fit."

Kat was crying now, leaning as far back and around her seat as she could without actually climbing out of it. Adam shoved himself between the seat and the door so he could hold Tommy's head still for Rocky.

"Kat—talk to him," Rocky said. "Squeeze his hand and talk to him—try and get him to respond. Jason—call the ER and tell them we are on the way in."

"I'm already calling," Hayley said grimly as Kat grabbed Tommy's hand and squeezed it tightly. "It's on speaker."

"Angel Grove Emergency Room," a voice answered through the van's speakers.

Rocky identified himself and immediately started telling the person on the other end the basics of what was happening.

"I need a team to meet us outside," he said. "I'm breathing for him right now an—I lost his pulse! Hayley—drive faster!"

Rocky dropped the bag and switched to CPR—made difficult by the tight confines of the minivan. No one spoke as Hayley raced through Angel Grove, making as few turns as possible to keep the ride smooth. Kat was crying silently, still clutching Tommy's hand desperately.

Finally, after what seemed like forever, they pulled up into the hospital and Hayley drove right to the doors for the ambulance bay where they could see people waiting for them. Adam yanked his door open and tumbled out of the car and out of the way as the ER staff swarmed the van. Rocky stopped CPR to help them shift Tommy out of the van and onto a gurney where one of the ER personnel took over CPR as they raced Tommy inside. Rocky ran with them, giving them Tommy's stats as they went, making sure they knew everything he knew.

Kat, who had gotten herself out of the car while they were unloading Tommy, started to chase after them. Adam caught her.

"No, Kat," he said. "You can't follow them. I'm sorry."

She collapsed against him, crying harder. Adam started leading her inside to the waiting room.

"Shut the door, Jason," Hayley snapped into the back. "I have to park somewhere else."

He quickly shut the door and Hayley moved the van to an actual parking spot. Parking in the first spot she found, Hayley turned off the van and climbed out. Jason quickly climbed out of the backseat. Fumbling with her keys, Hayley dropped them on the ground. Muttering under her breath, she picked them up and locked the car.

"Hayley, I'm sure he's going to be fin—" Jason tried to reassure her.

"Don't," she snapped, whirling to face him. "I've been here before. I've faced the possibility of him not waking back up or coming home or any other version of him being gone just like you have. I know what can go wrong and I do not need you to try and sugarcoat it for me. Now get inside."

Without waiting for a response, Hayley stormed off toward the waiting room to find Kat and Adam. Jason followed quietly.

Inside, Kat was standing anxiously with Adam, trembling as she continued to cry. He had an arm around her shoulders, offering her what little comfort he could at this moment by just waiting with her. Jason and Hayley hurried over to them.

"Kat—" Jason started to speak.

"Not right now, Jason," Adam said quietly, shaking his head.

Kat's eyes didn't leave the doors. For several more minutes, none of them moved.

Finally Rocky came walking through the doors. He was rubbing a hand over his face, shaking his head. Kat tensed, looking at Rocky hopefully as he caught sight of them and walked over.

"Rocky?" she finally managed to get out. "Rocky—please…"

"They brought him back, Kat," he said, putting a hand on her shoulder. "He's alive—and in good hands. They'll do everything they can for him. We just have to give them time."

Kat threw her arms around Rocky, hugging him tightly as she started crying even harder, her face buried in his chest. He hugged her back, exchanging looks with the others over her head. All of them had caught the implication of bringing Tommy back—and none of them wanted to dwell on the alternative.