POWER RANGERS STARFLEET (Starfleet Humans:)

Chapters

Episode 2: Part 2: Rangers Rise
Episode 3: Big Blowhard
Episode 4: Going Underground
Episode 5: Musical Workout
Episode 6: Junior Rangers
Episode 8: A Matter of Principals
Episode 9: Rush and the Raging
Episode 10: the High and the Flighty
Episode 11: Pandoria's Box
Episode 12: A Comet's Tale: Part 1
Episode 13: A Comet's Tale: Part 2
Episode 14: A Comet's Tale: Part 3
Episode 15: A Comet's Tale: Final Part
Episode 16: Dome Sweet Dome
Episode 18: Prank You Very Much
Episode 19: Don't Jinx It
Episode 20: Digital Dangers: Part 1
Episode 21: Digital Dangers: Part 2
Episode 23: Vulcan's Robot
Episode 24: Part 1: Robot, Return, Revenge
Episode 25: Part 2: Launch Time
Final Episode: Final Part: Raging Business
Episode 1: Part 1: Curse From the Stars
Episode 7: All Work and No Energy
Episode 17: Life is a Bash
Episode 22: Angles in the Outfield

Episode 2: Part 2: Rangers Rise

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Episode 3: Big Blowhard

EPISODE THREE

Over the weekend, the rangers helped out in the city to clean up the messes and damages caused by the battle. People already well-knew whom they were… they SAW them morph right in the open streets, and they wore their morpher badges right on their shirts where even more people could plainly see them… but then again they already knew them as Starfleet Heroes anyway.

Even Celesto didn’t mind that their identities were revealed, but he did solemnly make them swear never to reveal the location of their underground base. Many of their vital experiments and secrets lay there.

And, as a quick way to get the rangers to the base, secret tunnels with long travel slides leading to the base were revealed to be secretly set up all over the island, which only they and other team members could locate and access with their own equipment.

The people of the city were thankful to the rangers, despite the collateral damages, and promised to try and be brave and let whatever evil was lurking forth know that they would stand strong, hence the helping in the clearing up.

Meanwhile, Sunset had excused herself from the big cleanup to visit the hospital and check up on her comatose friends. Dr. Penny Sillion, whom had long since transferred from Canterlot High to work full time at the hospital was watching over them.

“How are they, Doc? Are they doing any better?”

“I’m afraid not…” replied Penny, “They were really hit hard in that explosion and their bodies need time to heal. Lots of time, but don’t worry… as long as they stay on their treatment, it won’t get worse. Just try to be brave for them… it’ll help.”

She left Sunset to run her shift, and Sunset walked down the room, gazing at each of her friends and seeing them lying so still and silent.

Rarity… Starla… Applejack… Dyno and Myte… Pinkie Pie… and way at the end was Artie, whom she came to see most of all. “Hi Artie…” she said softly to him “It’s Sunset… Look, I don’t know if you can hear me, but I came to give you this.” She held up a small flowery shrub in a flower pot, “It’s actually for all of you. The guys and I put it together. We also got a card.”

She held up a lovely “get well” card, with everyone names signed in it. Even the adults signed it, and Spike made a little paw mark. She placed the plant on the window so it could get some sunlight and put the card next to it.

She then gazed down at her boyfriend again, and wanted to peck his cheek but was advised by the staff not to because of the all the face wounds which were still probably infected. She didn’t want to get sick herself.

“Please get well soon.” that was all she said, and then she left.

(Que Intro)

During a break in the cleaning up, Celesto invited the rangers back to the base to show them something very special, and he led them to a large hanger bay. “We’ve been working and perfect this for five years now. You’re the first ones outside of this base to see these, but I figured it be best if you saw them now.” he explained to them, and once inside the Ranger’s eyes widened with awe.

Five powerful jet vehicles, all were silver but with colored chrome edgings matching each ranger’s color, were being fueled, worked on, and maintenance by the professor and his crew. “Wow!” exclaimed Sunset.

“Double wow.” added Buddy.

“These are the Star-Jets.” Celesto told them “They were built from jets and parts from when I worked at NASA and when I was in the Air-Force, but don’t be fooled by them first glance. Unlike ordinary jets, these have been super up with astonishing abilities weapons; they are even capable of traveling in space and underwater.”

“This is so incredible!” Rainbow squealed “I’ve always wanted to get into the air-force, and really hit the skies!”

“Well don’t be getting any big ideas.” Twilight said “We probably won’t even need to use them, and besides we’ve only just completed basic tests. Now the serious testing begins. It’ll take a few more weeks.”

Rainbow felt disappointed, “Well that’s a real drag.”

Fluttershy twiddled her fingers nervously as she gazed at the huge jets. “They seem so big.” She whimpered “I… I don’t think I can actually climb in there.”

The others rolled their eyes; a typical Fluttershy timid moment.

“Well, you needn’t worry about that, Fluttershy.” Celesto said “As Twilight said, we may not even need to use them, but just the same I just thought I should show you them.”

Rhymey admired what would be his own jet, not touching it of course.

“Look at this here, look at that there.
I can only imagine this thing being in the air.”

He imagined himself flying his jet in the cockpit and spelling out a love poem for Fluttershy in the sky.

Roses are Red
The Sky is blue
My dear Fluttershy
Rhymey loves you.

…and she would be definitely flattered.

“Now, now… Rhymey.” Professor Brain said, snapping him out of his trance “I realize how tempting this must be, but you must consider… we have taken five long years to construct these vehicles, spending quite massive fortune as well, and after many failures, we have only just reached the point where they think we have the answers…

…but we only THINK that we do. We still aren’t certain. We simply cannot take any chances.”

Rhymey and the others were more than understanding, but Rainbow was still sulking.

Suddenly, Sunset’s knapsack was vibrating as a soft glowing light shone through it. It was her communications tome, which she used to keep in contact with United Equestria.

“I sent word to Commander Lightning Dawn about what’s going on, and asked about our energizers. I think he’s finally answering me.”

“Everyone, to the main-chamber.” said Celesto, and off they went.

While at the prison tower, the prisoners were still hammering and thumping at their cells demanding to be released.

“SHUT UP!!” shouted Marla “We’ll let you out when we’re good and ready, and not before! So there!”

The monsters were most infuriated, but still trapped behind the bars and force-field which their powers could not break.

Bronc watched from the top floor, and felt rather sorry for the prisoners, remembering how it felt to be locked in for so many long years. But Vulcan left explicit orders: No one left their cell unless he said so.

Keto was sitting in the corner, seemingly doing nothing at all as he sat perfectly still. “Don’t you think you could do something more constructive, like help figure a plan to get back at the rangers?”

Keto opened his eyes and glared angrily at him, “I’m trying to remember an old spell I think that can help us against the rangers, and you just made me lose my concentration!”

Now Bronc felt rather curious, “And just what spell is this…?”

“If I get it going right, you’ll see. Now leave me alone!”

Suddenly, a single jail cell powered down and opened up as another creature stepped outside. He was a large creature with a large blower for a head. “Ah, it feels so good to be out of there!” he said as he stretched out his arms.

He began to walk down the way, when a row of Lingos blocked him off. “Excuse me; you’re kinda in my way!”

He gave them all huge blast with his blower, and blew them all away in a strong gust. Marla got caught in the gale which messed up her long hair. “Hey!” she shouted “UGH!! You’ll pay for messing up my hair, not to mention leaving your cell.”

“Enough!” Vulcan shouted as he approached them.

“Oh… Master…!”

“Tornado is free because I set him free, and he’s going to help us crush the rangers…” he glared at Tornado threatening “…Aren’t you?”

“Oh, um… yes, sir… Master Vulcan. I’ll blow them all right off the face of the Earth. You can count on it.”

“See that I can. Those rangers are the one thing standing between me and conquering this planet, and I want them annihilated!!”

“Oh, yes, sir… of course sir.” whimpered Tornado, and he walked off muttering “What a blowhard.”

Marla could only scoff and blow a set of her bangs out of her face.

The team had gathered at their big table, and Sunset placed her book down where everyone could see it and they all read Lightning’s message.

“Sunset… I read your message, and I’m afraid I have very bad news…

…I know where that monster you fought came from, as it confirms my deepest fears, and puts your planet in grave danger.”

Everyone exchanged looks of deep concern, and Sunset wrote her message saying it aloud for all to hear, “Where did they come from?”

Her text vanished instantly as it was received on the other end by Lightning and he wrote back his response telling everyone, “Listen very carefully… or rather… read…”

Everyone read carefully as the messages appeared…

“Several days ago, there was a massive prison breakout in one of our facilities. Many prisoners had escaped and fled out into the galaxy, but that’s not the worst of it…

It had also been thirty moons, the time in which the portal link between our worlds opens automatically.”

Sunset gasped softly, and the others felt concerned.

Lightning’s message went on explaining how to portal was now severed due to a freak accident which destroyed the link between worlds.

Now everyone was really concerned. “If that’s true… then we can’t get our energizers back.” said Buddy Rose.

“Oh, no!” cried Fluttershy.

“It can’t be true?
What will we do?” asked Rhymey.

What they all really wanted to know what this had to do with the monsters, all which was explained on the next page.

“Before the portal was shattered, it launched a powerful transport beam, which accidently hit a prison tower on Planet Conva sending it to your world beyond our control. This tower was filled many dangerous creatures which Stafleet had captured through the ages… and among them was this one…!”

The book actually then showed a perfect magical image of whom they were dealing with below the message, and everyone gawked in horror.

“His name is Vulcan. I’ve never actually met him in person, but according to the records; he is a powerful and ruthless Planet Broker! Five-Hundred years ago he came to Unicornicopia, Starfleet’s original location, and tried to conquer the planet, but Starfleet managed to beat him and tossed him into solitary confinement within Tower Number Seven.”

“What a minute… Planet Broker?” asked Buddy.

“I’ve heard about these guys, but I never thought they were really real.” said Sunset, and explained to everyone what she knew.

Planet Brokers: Like real estate agents, only instead of buying and selling lands and buildings like that… they bought and sold off whole planets. Some did it innocently, politely and without trouble. Some of the deals were vitally important to intergalactic businessmen, others were important to the security and evolutions of the star-systems.

…But there were some like Vulcan that ruthlessly and wickedly conquer the planets for profit and power!

Whenever they found a planet they believed would bring a high price on the market, without warning and without mercy, they and their legion of followers invade the planet and purge it of all life to get the planet ready for sale!

Everyone gasped, and Fluttershy nearly froze in her seat.

“If what you say is true about that,
This Vulcan is nothing but a Space Pirate!” thundered Rhymey.

Sunset clenched her fists with worry and outrage, “So Vulcan’s the one behind all these attacks, and he’s got a whole tower full of monsters and bad guys.”

Everyone was thinking the exact same thing by this point; it was obvious that Vulcan was planning to conquer the Earth and sell it in his cruel conquest for power and glory!

Lightning’s final message was read out…

“I only wish that I could help you more, but as you’ve been told the link between our world’s has been severed, and it will not reconnect until the portal from this end has been repaired, it will be a long job.

Even still, thousands of more dangerous monsters have escaped the prisons and fled out into space. Starfleet is working harder than ever to get them all back before disaster occurs. I am needed here to help my friends more than ever.

But if what you tell me is true, I believe that you and your ranger powers will be able to successfully defend your world form Vulcan’s treachery. You must continue to capture all the beasts he sends your way and keep them safe and secure until someday we can return them to their proper place in jail.

I have absolute faith and high beliefs in all of you, and I am very sorry to hear of our fallen friends and pray they will recover soon.

…Good luck to you all, and may the stars be there to guide you!”

He said no more.

“Well, I guess we’re definitely on our own for this one.” said Fluttershy. The others agreed, but at least now they knew what they were up against.

The alarms went off, Celesto dashed to the controls, “We’ve got trouble, signs of abnormalities coming from the Central Park.”

“Let’s go!” snapped Sunset, and she and others dashed for the transport tubes and were on their way.

Once in the park, it was very windy, so windy that some of the pine trees looked as if they were going to be blown over, birds couldn’t fly forward, and water from the ponds was splashing outward. Frogs and ducks and even the fish were blowing about.

The rangers themselves could hardly move forward, or even keep their eyes open. “What’s going on?!” shouted Fluttershy.

“I don’t know,
This is some wind blow!” hollered Rhymey.

Suddenly, the wind died down and all seemed to be getting calmer. “Hey, it’s stopped.” said Rainbow.

“But not for long…” called a sinister voice. The rangers turned and saw Tornado laughing at them. “So, you’re the pesky rangers I get to destroy. Master Vulcan will be very pleased.”

The rangers’ features hardened. “Suck it up you blowhole. We’re sending you right back to him in pieces!” Rainbow called to him.

Tornado felt most insulted.

The rangers all stood together, “It’s Morphin’ Time!” shouted Sunset.

“Morphing Sequence… Ready!”

“STARFLEET MAGIC… POWER ON!!”

The rangers were all morphed, but Tornado laughed “That’s cool, but not as cool as this…!” and he let out a cool but strong blast of wind from his big blower.

The rangers found themselves struggling against the wind, barely able to move forward, and they soon found themselves being blown clear across the park and into a clearing.

“Whoa! I’ve heard of blowhards, but this is nuts.” said Buddy.

The wind was getting stronger again.

“He’s coming this way!” cried Fluttershy.

Tornado reached the clearing and ceased his blower. “So Rangers, are you going to give up yet?”

“Never!” shouted Sunset “We’ll never give up to the likes of you.”

“Oh, well, you blew it.

…Get them, Lingos!”

A swarm of Lingos appeared on the field, and the rangers lunged into action.

Sunset punched one, kicked another, and flipped a third one right over onto its back.

Rainbow was surrounded by three more that all came at her at once, but she flipped down onto her hands and spun gracefully as she kicked them down “Triple play!”

Fluttershy was running as a Lingo chased her, but then she ran straight into a tree, dashing along up the trunk and flipping herself over to kick the Lingo hard into the tree. “It’s not nice to chase a girl like that.”

Buddy Rose and Rhymey, wielding their weapons, slashed and cracked at all the Lingos coming their way, making sparks fly and the Lingos vaporized into hair bits.

“Okay, bugle-face, you’re next!” snapped Buddy.

“Ha! Let me blow you a tune!” snarled Tornado, and he blasted the boys hard, actually blowing their weapons out of their hands and sent them both hurdling backwards and rolling along the ground.

“Boys!” cried Sunset as she and the girls joined them.

“He blew us both here,
We couldn’t get near.” said Rhymey.

“Ha! Sounds like you’re full of hot air, like me…!” shouted Tornado, and instead of his usual gusts, he blew out burning balls of hot air, hitting the rangers, making sparks fly and knocking them over.

“That’s wind burn for ya!” Tornado laughed.

The rangers were most annoyed. “There’s got to be some way to cork this guy.” sneered Buddy…

…and that gave Rainbow an idea. “If you guys try and distract him, I’ll fire my cannon at him. He won’t be able to blow off that.”

“Good idea.” said Sunset “Let’s move!”

“I’ll huff and I’ll puff and I’ll blow ya all down!” shouted Tornado.

Sunset charged forth and leapt right over him, grabbing onto his back, but he elbowed her off him.

The boys then lunged at him together and he punched them both away.

Finally Fluttershy came charging in with her shield, but Tornado blasted at her, and even with her shield up, Fluttershy was still blown back hard, dropping her shield in the process.

“Four down and one to go...!”

“And that one is you!” Rainbow called.

“Huh?!” Tornado snapped as he turned round and saw Rainbow aiming her cannon at him. “Set to full power!”

“Sonic Cannon… Ready!”

“Oh, no you don’t!” shouted Tornado, and he began to blow his gusts at her to knock her away.

“FIRE!!” shouted Rainbow, and her canon fired its beam at the oncoming winds. “Come on…!” Rainbow groaned as she tried to keep her stance as she kept on firing the beam straight at the blower’s mouth, finally hitting it form the inside.

KAPOW!! “Whoa!” shouted Tornado as he tumbled backwards, “Talk about a low blow!”

The other rangers ran up to Rainbow commenting her on her great shot.

Meanwhile, Vulcan was observing the fight. “Oh! What was I thinking sending that blowhard buffoon! He needs more power!”

“Pardon me, Master…” Keto said “I believe I can provide you with what you need. Just watch.”

Vulcan and the others watched as Keto stepped over to the window.

“What is that little shrimp up to?” Marla asked to Bronc, but Bronc had no idea.

They all watched as he raised his little staff out the window, waving it in circles he shouted “FORTISSIMO!!”

A small octagonal shape appeared and before anyone could question him about it, Keto used his staff to send the little object on its way; soaring across the ocean to Mystic Island.

The object appeared above the battle zone, and expanded to a larger size.

“Hey, what’s that?” asked Buddy Rose.

“It’s a Mugic!” cried Sunset “A powerful magical music; I’ve studied these.”

The others still didn’t understand, but the object began to spin round and around while simple notes of a small song were heard. The song then replayed in a remix-symphonic form, like something from a Chaotic world

As the song played, Tornado’s body glowed in a bright light, and suddenly… in a bright flash… he was as tall and as large as a skyscraper, much to the rangers’ horror.

“Well, what do you say now, rangers? I can blow you all away in one shot!”

He raised his huge foot to stomp the rangers like bugs.

“Look out!” screamed Fluttershy, and the all leapt out of the way just in time.

“What are we going to do?” asked Rainbow.

“I don’t know. Our weapons won’t even make him flinch.” said Sunset.

Back at the base, Celesto, Twilight, Spike and Brain saw everything.

“I wouldn’t have believed t possible!” exclaimed Brain.

“If he uses his air blows now, he could blow up the whole city.” cried Spike.

Celesto struggled with an idea and he decided, “…Launch the Star-Jets!”

“Sir…?” Twilight said in shock “But they’re not ready yet. We haven’t thoroughly tested them.”

“Well, what finer way to test them than right now.” replied Celesto, “The rangers and the city are in danger. We have no other choice.”

As much as Brain wasn’t too keen on the idea, he was inclined to agree. What was five years anyway compared to the lives of so many? “Prepare for launch.”

Twilight sighed, “You always have ways of making me agree with you.”

Celesto spoke to the rangers, “Hold on, rangers… help is on the way!”

In the hangar bay, everyone was running about to their stations and getting well out of the way as the fully-fueled and ready jets were prepared for launch.

The jets were programed to taxi forward to the front of the hanger. The bay hatch opened wide revealing a long launch tunnel.

“Twilight, you have the honors.” said Celesto.

Twilight nodded and she flipped the switch on her console as the auto-voice called out, “Summon Zords!”

The jet thrusters fired and the five jets zoomed out the hangar through the tunnel, soaring all the way to the end of the island and flying out through a secret doorway.

The autopilot took the jets to where the rangers were, just flying past Tornado, surprising him. “Hey, what’s going on?”

The rangers stared up at the jets in awe. “They’re incredible!” said Sunset.

“Awe-Some!” cried Rainbow.

The jets then launched multi-colored tractor beams, beaming each ranger into the cockpit of their own jet.

The controls all seemed so standard and easy to understand.

“Instructions please,
How do we control these?” Rhymey called.

“Don’t worry about it.” Celesto said to the rangers “The controls may look complicated, but they’re as easy as playing a video game.”

Fluttershy still felt a little nervous about this, but she shakily grabbed hold steering gear, as did each of the others. “Okay, it’s time to shine!” declared Sunset.

The jets steered back towards the giant monster ready for battle, and Tornado furiously launched his hot air-balls at them again.

The rangers quickly veered off and avoided the attack. “WHOA!!” cried Fluttershy “This is scary!!”

“YA-HOO!! This is wicked!” shouted Rainbow.

“Let’s give the lasers a try.” suggest Buddy Rose, and he zoomed in closer and opened fire at the monster, making sparks fly.

The others then came in and fired their own missiles and weapons at him as well making more sparks and more explosions. Tornado fell off his feet and rolled along the ground.

He got back up fuming, “So, you wanna fly high, huh?! Have some wind!” and he blasted a huge burst of wind from his large blower, which created such an air-current blowing the jets about.

“Whoa! Hey!” cried Sunset.

Rainbow pulled on her steering gear hard to maintain control.

Fluttershy tumbled around in her jet shrieking, “GET ME OUT OF THIS CRAZY THING!!”

The team back at the base saw this. “Man, they’re still getting creamed!” said Spike.

“Not for long.” said Twilight, and she quickly typed up a program she had been working on in her help perfecting the jets and their design. “Guys, listen up. I’m sending you a new program. Now you can combine your zords to form the Jet Star Megazord!”

The rangers saw the program on the screens in their cockpits.

“Cool, let’s try it.” said Rainbow.

“I’m up for that.” added Buddy.

“Ready, Steady.” said Rhymey.

“O-o-okay.” peeped Fluttershy.

“Alright, let’s do it now!” said Sunset “Initiate transformation, mark!”

“Zords Combine!”

The jet’s autopilots took over and the jets began to fly in astonishing formation and began to combine together.

Sunset’s Jet, the largest of the five: It’s wings folded inward and the nose of the jet separated from the front. It was the main body of the Megazord.

Buddy’s Jet: folded in its wings and opened out into three curves forming the lower body and the upper legs of the Megazord.

Rainbow’s Jet: Split into two vertical halves down the middle and folded at the fronts forming the legs and feet of the megazord.

Rhmey and Fluttershy’s Jets: Their jets formed the two arms --Rhymey the right arm, and Fluttershy the left-- The fronts of the jets opened and folded out as the bodies of the jets pointed downward as to large fists folded outward.

The five jett combined together, complete with a sword in a scabbard on the back, and the nose cone of Sunset’s jet rested and fitted atop forming the head, where the rangers all sat together inside.

“Jet Star Megazord, Ready!”

“I don’t believe it! It’s not possible!” shouted tornado as he glared at the giant robot.

Back at the base, everyone was very impressed with the Megazord. “Amazing… Most astonishing.” cried Brain. Twilight smirked proudly at him.

Celesto was most impressed as well “This is turning out better than I thought, but the rest is up to the rangers now.”

“Okay guys…” Sunset said to the others “According to Twilight’s program, we all have to work together. Everybody set…?”

The rangers all agreed as they took hold of their controls.

“Alright, let’s take this windbag!”

“Come and get some!” thundered Tornado as he tried to blast the megazord with his wind gusts, but the giant robot was much too heavy to be really blown that easily.

The megazord began to stomp forward, engaging in a fist brawl with Tornado. Their huge fists collided and parried one another’s, but Tornado managed to strike the megazord hard in the chest.

“Let’s turn up the heat!” shouted tornado as he launched more hot air-balls, hitting the megazord mercilessly …Rocking the rangers about in the cockpit.

“Hold it easy, guys!” cried Sunset!

Still standing, the megazord marched forth for more.

“Oh, no you don’t!” snarled Tornado and he prepared to launch more hot air-balls.

“Oh, yes we do!” snapped Rainbow and she pulled back on her controls, making them megazord kick Tornado in the gut, flipping him over onto his back.

“You did miss,
Now try this!” shouted Rhymey, and he thrust the right fist clear into the mouth of the blower, just as the hot balls fired, resulting in Tornado practically blasting himself hard and damaging his blower.

“That’s a lot of air!” Tornado groaned as he fanned himself to cool off.

“Alright!” cried Spike “We’re really cooking with gas now!”

Twilight agreed, and then told the others, “Guys, draw the saber, and use the Star Slash.”

“We, got it, Twilight.” said Sunset “Engage Megazord Saber!”

The Megazord grabbed hold of its sword in the right hand, and pulled it from its sheath. It was a beautiful piece of craftsmanship, with a golden star mark at the hilt, and a silver star at the tip of the blade.

“Star Saber… Engage!”

“All together, guys…” Sunset called to the others, and all together they shouted, “STAR SLASH… GO!!”

The saber began to shine with a bright glow as the Megazord waved it around in a perfect circle forming a five-point star, jolting with power. The Megazord then gave a single slash with the saber, sending the jolting star forth, crashing into Tornado!

“LOOKS LIKE I REALLY BLEW IT NOW!!” Tornado shouted as his body sparked and jolted with electrical currents… then he exploded, shrunk down.

“Engaging Capture-Beam…” Fluttershy said as she worked her controls, and the megazord shot a small ray from its chest at where Tornado was, beaming him into the cockpit where he was already encased in a sphere.

The rangers cheered and exchanged high-fives as Sunset declared, “Monster Captured! Mission Complete!”

Back at the base, Spike howled in joy as everyone else rejoiced in victory. Twilight, Brain and Celesto were especially pleased that all went well with the megazord after all…

…But suddenly, “Wait a minute… look!” cried Celesto.

Everyone could see on the monitors…

…while the Rangers could see through the view-port, a sinister image of a wicked creature appeared in the sky. “That’s him…!” cried Buddy Rose “That’s the creep Lightning warned us about.”

Sunset’s features hardened behind her helmet. “…Vulcan!”

It was only an illusion he was using to communicate with the rangers, as well as the city.

“Hear me now, Power Rangers. You may have gotten lucky in defeating my monster today, but all you’re doing is delaying what is yet to come. This planet is mine to conquer, and I will continue to come at you with everything that I have until you’re destroyed. Then, there will be none that can stand in my way.

So savor this victory while you can, Rangers. Your days are numbered!” He laughed maniacally as the image vanished.

The rangers all felt outraged and determined not to let this creep have his way. “We’ll be ready for you, Vulcan.” Sunset sneered “As long as the Power Rangers exist, evil will never triumph!”

The others all agreed, and prepared to ready themselves for anything in the long fight ahead!

Episode 4: Going Underground

EPISODE FOUR

Monday morning, and despite all that happened, School still continued, which meant the rangers still had to keep up their studies and classes.

Of course, since practically everyone knew who the rangers were, their popularity had sky-rocketed around campus. Students flocked all over them practically asking for their autographs or to take selfies with them. Even the school clubs invited the rangers to join their societies with a promise of more popularity, which of course each ranger refused… it wasn’t about fame to them, and it wasn’t a game either, but they did give out a couple of autographs and let a few pictures be taken here and there.

Sadly, Twilight felt isolated from the rest of her friends as she watched them please the crowds of fans. She wasn’t a ranger, and nobody knew she was the one aiding them. No one was allowed to know either.

“You okay, Twilight?” Spike whispered. He was careful not to let other people know he could speak.

“Oh, I’m okay.” Twilight said “Come on, we had to drop you off with Principal Celestia so she can look after you while I have class.”

She scooped him up in her backpack and walked into the school through a side entrance, away from all the crowds, but as she walked down the hall some of the students did look her way, but didn’t bother to say anything to her.

Some still remembered her as the evil Midnight Sparkle, despite that was months ago.

Some of the students she could even hear remarking.

“Look, it’s the evil one.”

“She hides it well behind those glasses of hers.”

“Innocent on the outside… a heart of black inside.”

She simply ignored them, knowing fully well she was not truly evil and long since mended her ways since she came to be a student at Canterlot High.

…but, she still felt a little hurt, a little downhearted, and Spike as a dog could sense this. “You’re really alright, huh?” he asked.

Twilight sighed “Sometimes I can’t just help but think back when I was an anti-social study-geek, and even though I’ve got friends these days I still can’t help but feel a little different from the others.”

Spike rolled his eyes, still unable to believe she still let it get to her like this.

“Talking to yourself again?” said a rude voice.

Twilight looked on ahead, and saw a girl about a foot taller than she was, with long blonde hair, wearing a tilted pink beret with a matching pink sweater and white wind breaker.

This was Nikki Trent, a popular girl at the school, but definitely a Queen Bee who liked to insult other students she regarded as nerdy.

With her were her two underlings, Amber and Dionne. Amber had long red hair and wore a black shirt with tan pants, and Dione had long black hair and she wore a white T-shirt with matching white pants.

Together, they were called “The Jazzies” a rather odd name, but Nikki picked it and no one dared question her about it for fear of her wrath.

“No, she was talking to her little hamster again.” Amber teased.

Spike growled at them, but he didn’t speak so not to break his cover.

“He’s not a hamster. He’s a dog.” Twilight corrected the girls.

“Like, whatever.” sneered Dionne.

Twilight decided to ignore the girls and continued to walk on her way, but Nikki put her foot out and tripped her. Twilight fell to the floor and her glasses fell off.

“See that, you can’t even stand on your own feet, geek.” Nikki laughed.

Twilight felt really annoyed and Spike leapt out of the bag and barked at Nikki. “Whoa, what’s your problem?” Nikki sneered at Spike, but the little dog just continued to bark at her.

“Either you shut up your little mutt or we’ll shut you both down!” Nikki threatened.

Twilight stood up, and put her glasses back on. “Um… can you repeat what you just said, I’m not sure the Principal heard what you said.”

The girls turned round and saw Principal Celestia standing behind them, glaring angrily at them with her arms folded. “Ladies…” she said with a deep sneer.

Nikki and the others stuttered and stammered, and then they just ran off.

Celestia sighed, and then took Spike from Twilight.

“I’m really sorry about this.” Twilight said.

“Never mind…” Celestia said while smiling at her “But I really think it would be easier if you put Spike in a day camp, than letting me look after him all day. I can’t always watch him for you, you know.”

“I can’t afford a day camp.” said Twilight “And no one else I know can watch over him.”

The bell rang, and they had to end their little discussion so Twilight to get to class. “You behave yourself.” she said to Spike, kissing him on his little nose and then walked off down the hall.

Celestia couldn’t help but notice the faint tears in the back of Twilight’s eyes as she turned away.

“Is she alright?” she quietly asked Spike.

“Oh, it’s the same old story again.”

Celestia sighed, “The poor dear.”

(Que Intro)

Later that same day, Bronc had released another prisoner for an idea he had.

“Master Vulcan…!”

Vulcan approached the duo and he gazed at the monster; a mole like creature, wearing a hate with spikes atop his head, and his teeth were as sharps as blades. He seemed a little chubby but strong and tough nonetheless.

“What can this creature do, Bronc?” Vulcan asked.

“Groundling has the power to tunnel his way beneath the ground.”

Groundling spoke in a thick Brooklyn accent “I’ll make them rangers fall in so deep they hardly remember what happened. They’ll be outta’ your hair faster than you can say “Hole in the ground.”

Bronc nodded, “I even plan to accompany him this time, if you will permit me, sir.”

Vulcan hesitated and thought it over “Very well, Bronc, but Marla shall go with you as well.”

Bronc didn’t like the sound of that, and neither did Marla. “Excuse me, but I just did my nails. Why can’t Keto go?”

“Hey!” sneered Keto “Maybe it’s about time you did something useful around here besides looking in your mirror all day.”

“Ah!” snapped Marla “Why you little…!”

“Enough!” shouted Vulcan “I said you will go with them, Marla… NOW!!”

Marla winced, and then she wined “But my nails are still wet.”

Vulcan angrily zapped them with a blazing blast, turning them from pink to black, making her scream in horror. “And Guess what I’ll roast next if you don’t get going!” thundered Vulcan, he hinted at her long pink hair.

“Okay, Okay… I’ll go!”

Bronc sighed as he and groundling prepared to depart, and Vulcan walked off growling in annoyance!

At lunch Twilight was sitting alone at a table in the cafeteria. Normally her friends joined her, but once again they were held up by another mob of fans wanting more autographs and pictures. Some girls even tried to get Buddy Rose’s phone number.

Twilight couldn’t help but think of that song she once sang…

Finally, the others managed to break from the crowds, get their lunches and meet Twilight at the table.

“Wow, I never thought being popular was so hard.” said Fluttershy.

Rainbow acted smug as she sat down, “Yep, but you get used to it. That’s how it was with me when I became captain of nearly every sports team on campus.”

As the friends continued to chat on, Sunset noticed Twilight feeling a little down. “Is everything okay?” she asked.

Twilight sighed, “How many people are going to ask me that today?” she grumbled.

“Well, excuse me.”

Twilight apologized for being gruff, “I assure you guys, I’m fine.”

Nikki came along with her stooges and teased, “Yeah, she’s just upset because she’s nerdy and not popular.”

The girls laughed, but the rangers were not amused at all and poor Twilight, having had a lot of that combined with her sorry feelings all day, she ran from the table and out into the school yard.

“Twilight!” called Buddy, but she was already gone. “Nikki, that was low!”

“You talkin’ to me?” Nikki sneered.

Buddy growled.

Meanwhile, Twilight had already raced out to the ball field in back of the school. She tripped over a rock and fell to the ground, losing her glasses again.

She actually began to cry. She felt so silly to be fretting this much over her past and pretty much her present insecurities.

“What’s wrong with me?” she sobbed to herself “I can’t let this keep getting me down!”

Suddenly, the ground she lay on began to rumble, and before she could react to anything, the ground just collapsed into a huge hold and she fell through, leaving her glasses behind.

She slide down a long rocky tunnel and had fallen into a deep cavern, with torches burning along the walls, but without her glasses and being in the dark she could hardly see too well.

“What’s going on?” she called out “Where am I?” She tried to walk forward, but because she couldn’t see two generator pillars, she walked right into an invisible force-field that shocked her and threw her back.

Bronc, Groundling and Marla approached her. “Hey, you’re not a power ranger.” growled Groundling.

Now Twilight was more than convinced she was in real trouble, surrounding by creeps working for Vulcan! “Who are you? What are you doing to me?”

Marla took one look at Twilight and scoffed “Ugh… it’s just another nerdy kid. Look at that ponytail and that sweater and tie. Ack!”

“Does anyone mind if I munch her down. I could use a snack.” said Groundling.

Twilight shuddered nervously.

“No, wait…!” snapped Bronc “She may not be a ranger, but she’s the perfect bait we need to lure into our clutches.”

The trio snickered, while Twilight shivered with worry!

Back in the lunchroom…

“Tell me, why do you guys hang out with that geek-girl anyway?” Nikki rudely asked.

“Let’s think… uh… because she’s our friend!” said Rainbow.

Amber and Dionne snickered, “You guys so missed the new trend this year.” said Amber, and Dionne added, “Totally… Popular peeps like you and us don’t hang with her kind.”

Rhymey stood and said to the mean girls…

“Well we prefer things our way.
And friends with Twilight we shall stay!
You’ll pardon me if say with fuss,
But popularity means nothing to us!”

Amber and Dionne gasped, and Nikki looked as if she swallowed a fly “Nothing? Popularity… means… NOTHING?!”

The other rangers agreed, “We don’t need to be popular to know we’re all special, and neither does Twilight.” said Fluttershy

Sunset nodded and then suggested they all look for Twilight like real friends would.

They all ran out the door into the field.

“Twilight…!” Sunset called out.

“Hey, Twilight!” Rainbow shouted.

“You, hoo…
Where are you!” Rhymey hollered.

Celestia came along with Spike, giving him his afternoon walk during lunch break, and getting herself some much needed fresh air due to her pregnancy, when she saw the students in the yard.

“What are you all doing out here?” she asked.

“We’re looking for Twilight.” replied Fluttershy.

“What? What happened to her?” Spike asked in concern.

Before anyone could explain “Guys, over here, quick!” Buddy Rose hollered

Everyone ran over to where he was, and he held up a pair of glasses he found lying on the ground. Everyone recognized the style of frames anywhere, and Spike sniffed them, “Yep, they’re Twilight’s alright.”

They had no idea what had happened to her. The hole in the ground was gone, as if it had never been there to begin with.

“Something is definitely not right here.” said Rainbow “She wouldn’t run off and leave these here.”

“But where is she?” asked Fluttershy.

“We better keep looking.” suggested Sunset.

“I’ll go and call Celesto.” said Celestia, and she headed for the school, leaving Spike in the rangers’ care as he wanted to stay behind and help look for Twilight too.

Fluttershy and Rhymey stayed with Spike while the others all split up and looked all around the schoolyard, front and back.

Spike sniffed all over the area where they found Twilight’s glasses. He was able to pick up her scent, but only from the doors to the lunchroom right up to the spot where the glasses were found. “Nothing.” he said “It’s like she vanished into thin air.”

The two rangers felt they weren’t getting anywhere with this.

As for the others…

Buddy Rose checked near the gardens he had planted, still calling out to Twilight hoping for an answer, but he got none.

“Where is she?” he grumbled.

Suddenly, he could feel the ground vibrating beneath his feet. “Whoa!!” he cried as he fell through a large hole that opened wide.

Rainbow saw that as she came round the corner. “Buddy!” she cried, but then she herself fell through the ground.

Sunset came round the corner herself, having heard the shouts. “Rainbow, Buddy…?” she called, but she stopped dead in her tracks when she could see the two holes in the ground…

…the two holes magically seemed to vanish without a trace.

She ran up to where one of the holes was, and found what appeared to be a rainbow wristband—Rainbow Dash’s wristband-- lying on the ground.

“Guys!!” Sunset shouted as she ran to catch up to the others.

“Sunset…?” Fluttershy hollered, but suddenly she and Rhymey felt the ground vibrating.

“Watch out!” shouted Spike and he rushed right into the two knocking them out of the way as another hole opened.

Fluttershy broke out into a near faint.

Rhymey felt just as freaked out as well, and Sunset dashed up to them all telling them about Buddy and Rainbow. “I think it’s safe to say they didn’t just vanish.” said Sunset.

The others agreed, and then they felt the ground vibrating again.

“Come on…!
…Run!” shouted Rhymey, and they all got off the field as quick as their legs could run.

“That was scary!” cried Fluttershy “I don’t think I can take another surprise like that.”

Suddenly, their coms beeped, and she jumped into Rhymey’s arms, but quickly calmed down.

Sunset tapped on her morpher, “This is Sunset.”

It was Celesto calling, “Celestia told me what’s been happening, and just now the monitors register small amounts of seismic activity all over the schoolyard.”

“We know…” replied Sunset “There were strange holes appearing in the ground. We’re pretty sure Twilight, Buddy Rose and Rainbow Dash got swallowed by them. Can you help us find them?”

“Already working on it…”

A moment of silence followed as Celesto worked the computers to locate the sources of the other rangers’ morphers. “I’ve got them! They’re in a small cavern at the southern beach, a few miles from your current location. I’ve already prepared a jump tube for you.”

“We’re on our way.” said Sunset.

She then triple clicked on her morpher, which scouted out and scanned the location of the nearest jump-tube. “Here, in the wall.”

She felt around for a secret switch, and one of the bricks pressed inward revealing the jump-tube. “Let’s go!” she said to the others, and they all jumped in. Fluttershy even brought Spike along with them.

“WHOA!! This is scary… but fun too.” Spike shouted as they all soared along.

Meanwhile, Buddy and Rainbow found themselves trapped in the cave along with Twilight, kept bound by the same barrier keeping her in.

They tried to morph or contact the others, but their morphers didn’t function. “It’s no use, rangers.” said Bronc “The electo-magnetic waves of that force-field have blocked out the keys to your powers. There’s nothing more you can do but sit and wait.”

Marla snickered “It’ll only be a matter of time before we get the rest of your ranger crew, and then… it’ll be lights out for the lot of you! Master Vulcan will be very pleased.”

“You won’t get away with this, you ugly creeps!” snarled Buddy Rose.

Marla took extreme offense to that “You… called me… UGLY?!?!” she screamed. It was so annoying the prisoners covered their ears. Even Bronc was annoyed.

“The last person who called me ugly… I broke him in half!” snarled Marla “You’re punishment will be way worse!”

“Calm down, Marla…” sneered Bronc “We must be ready to capture the remaining rangers…”

“Hey!!” Someone called out from outside the cave

“…And I think I hear them now.”

Upon arriving at the beach, the rangers and Spike could see the cave up ahead, and Sunset called out to them “Twilight… Buddy… Rainbow…!”

The only response was wicked laughter as Marla, Bronc and a swarm of Lingos marched out of the cave. “Well, well, you finally showed.” Marla sneered at them.

The team had never seen these two before, but already could tell they were really dangerous, and obviously more of Vulcan’s followers.

“What have you done with our friends?” Fluttershy demanded, but then she softened up “Um… please…”

“They are safe, for the moment.” replied Bronc, “But if you ever wish to see them again, you will surrender to us immediately.”

The rangers were losing their patience.

“Like we’d do that,
You dirty rat!” snarled Rhymey.

“Wrong answer!” shouted Marla, and she motioned for the Lingos to attack!

“Let’s go!” shouted Sunset, and without even morphing, she and the others jumped into battle.

Fluttershy threw a bunch of sand at a Lingo’s face and then kicked it hard to the ground. Another tried to grab her, but she swerved and then grabbed it by the arm, flipping it down.

Rhymey flipped over a few rocks as three Lingos leapt over after him. He punched one…

“Up High…!”

He kicked another…

“Down low…!”

The last one lunged straight at him…

“In the middle…!”

He ducked down and trip-kicked the creature over, “…Too slow!”

Sunset already had knocked the rest of the Lingos that attacked her away, but suddenly she was ensnared by Marla’s long hair, like being wrapped in a vine.

“Let go of me!”

Marla laughed, “Now why would I and to do that.”

“Sunset!” cried Fluttershy. She and Rhymey charged to help her, but Bronc leapt out in front of them “Going somewhere?”

The two tried and tried to get past him, but Bronc shoved them back really hard with his great strength.

“We’re inviting you to have lunch with a special friend of ours.” hissed Bronc. That’s when the ground rumbled, and in a huge burst, Groundling popped out, snarling and laughing wickedly “Yo’ when’s lunch already!”

The rangers felt frightened.

“Struggling and fear only makes him hungrier.” Marla teased.

From inside the cave, the others, unguarded, heard everything. Buddy Rose even gave Twilight back her glasses so she could see better.

“Sounds like the others are in big trouble.” said Buddy “We’ve got to try and help them!”

Rainbow tried, foolishly, to break through the barrier by charging at it, only to get thrown back every time. “Well, anyone else got an idea?”

Twilight, now able to see, got a good look at the generator pillars that powered the barrier. “If we could just knock the generators over somehow, it could disarm the shield.”

“But how can we do that?” asked Buddy.

Twilight suddenly remembered that the shield was using electro-magnetic charges. She turned to face Buddy “Give me your belt.”

“Huh?”

“I’ve got an idea.”

Curious, Buddy gave her his belt, “I hope this works.”

“What are you doing?” asked Rainbow.

Twilight shaped the belt as a loop snare “If I’m right, the cloth material of the belt strap should pass through the field.”

She then tossed the strap, and sure enough, it passed through the field and grabbed round the pillar. Then she gave a huge pull, yanking the pillar, snapping it at its base. It fell to the ground shorting out, and with its destruction, the other pillars couldn’t control the power-flow and shorted out, disarming the shield.

“All right Twilight!” Rainbow cheered.

“Ha! Come here you!” Buddy said giving her a friendly noogie.

As much as Twilight felt grateful and flattered, as well as a little better with her confidence in herself being restored, she motioned to her friends to go and help the others quick.

Outside, Bronc held Rhymey and Fluttershy up by their collars so they couldn’t run or fight back and Marla still had Sunset trapped in her hair, while Groundling was licking his choppers ready to chow. “I haven’t had a good meal in two-hundred years. Much better than them jail foods they always served!”

“Hurry up!” whined Marla “We haven’t got all day.”

“Alright already…! Sheesh! What a grouch!”

Nonetheless, he stomped forth ready to chow some rangers, when suddenly he got blasted at from behind. “Hey!”

Bronc and Marla suddenly got lashed by the end of a plasma whip, causing Bronc to drop Fluttershy and Rhymey, and the whip slashed through the end of Marla’s hair, freeing Sunset.

“MY HAIR…!!” Marla screamed in terror as she clutched her snipped hair.

Buddy and Rainbow, already morphed, stepped out from the cave holding their weapons. “Did you miss us?” Rainbow teased.

“They’ve escaped!” cried Bronc.

Sunset and the others were most pleased, “Looks like your plan’s about to backfire bigtime.” She said to the villains.

The villains growled angrily!

The unmorphed rangers stood together, ready to go. “It’s Morhpin’ time!” said Sunset.

“Morphing Sequence… Ready!”

“STARFLEET MAGIC…!! …POWER ON!!”

Once morphed, all five rangers stood together and called out their mottos.

Sunset: “Evil’s Dread! Starfleet Red!”

Buddy Rose: “Let’s make the scene. Starfleet Green!”

Rainbow: “We’ll see things through. Starfleet Blue!”

Rhymey: “Though peace and Woe! Starfleet Yellow!”

Fluttershy: “Quick as a Wink! Starfleet Pink!”

“…POWER RANGERS… STARFLEET!!”

The villains were growing impatient, and the rangers all held out their weapons. Let’s get ‘em!” shouted Sunset, and she and the rangers charged forth.

Fluttershy and Rhymey charged at Bronc, wanting to get back at him. Fluttershy got knocked away, but Rhymey managed to slash at him with his sword, only to then get punched hard and knocked away.

Marla extended her nails into sharp claws, and hissed at Rainbow and Buddy. “Come on!” she thundered.

The two rangers came at her with all they had, but Marla successfully knocked Rainbow’s cannon away and kicked her hard, and just as Buddy Rose was about to sneak from behind with his whip, Marla swiftly leapt up and behind him, slashing twice with her claws and making spark fly as Buddy got knocked away… “That was for slashing my hair!”

As for Sunset, she tried firing blasts from her scepter at Groundling, but his body was so big and pudgy the attacks hardly made him flinch, “That best you got, toots?”

“I’ll show you!” snarled Sunset as she rushed forth, but collided right into Groundling’s spongey gut, springing right off of him.

“Ooh, that tickled, but this won’t!” said Groundling, then his teeth, claws and the spikes on his helmet glowed and her swiftly burrowed underground.

The Rangers all grouped together, but not one of them could tell where the monster was.

Suddenly, they could all see the patches of ground coming straight at them as Groundling moved in close

“LOOK OUT!!” cried Fluttershy, but everyone already got struck hard as Groundling burst through ground like a missile and struck them all with his claws.

“Can ya dig it!” the monster teased.

Bronc and Marla were very amused and pleased with the progress as they joined their ally by his side goading at the rangers. “Face it rangers, this is your end.” sneered Marla.

“We’re not through yet, not by a longshot!” said Sunset. The other rangers agreed.

“Wrong answer!” shouted Bronc, and he fired two huge beams from the eyes of his helmet.

The rangers all jumped out of the way avoiding the blast, and the villains charged for them again…

…Only to suddenly step into small ditches in the ground making them fall.

“What’s happened?” asked Buddy.

That’s when Spike leapt out, looking very dirty and saying “I happened…” and he told the others how he, unnoticed by all had dug small holes along the ground like the dog he was, “figured it would slow ‘em down for you.”

“Good boy, Spike!” Sunset said as she patted his head “Alright, before they recover let’s bring ‘em together.”

The rangers agreed and combined their weapons.

“Star Smasher… Ready!”

The villains looked up, “Oh, no!” cried Marla “I’m outta here!” and she quickly activated her transporter, teleported away.

“Get back here!” shouted Bronc.

“Hey look!” cried Groundling, as the rangers stood ready for the kill. “Time to Shine!” shouted Sunset, and she and the rangers all shouted together…

“…STAR SLAMMER, ULTRA-STRIKE!!”

“Look out!” Bronc cried as he zipped out of the way, but Groundling had already gotten slammed by the attack, and even his helmet didn’t protect him.

He fell to the ground and was nearly ready to explode…

…But Vulcan saw everything on his computer screen! “Keto…!!” he hollered.

“I’m on it…” replied Keto as he hopped to the window. “…FORTISSIMO!!” launching his magical Mugic out and off to Groundling’s aid…

…and Groundling turned into a giant! “From the ground up!” he thundered.

Bronc was impressed too, but the ranger gawked and grunted irritably.

Sunset then contacted the base, “…Launch Star Jets!”

“Summon Zords!”

As the base, the jets were already well prepped up and launched at once through the tunnel.

The jets arrived near the beach in almost no time, and the rangers beamed into their cockpits. “Okay, the ground this creep!” said Sunset.

“Zords Combine!”

“Jet-Star Megazord… Ready!”

Once the megazord was fully mobilized, it was time to brawl.

“URGH!! I’ll ground y’all into bits of gravel!” Groundling growled as he stomped forth.

“Bring it on, Big Boy!” Rainbow sneered.

The big hulks collided together through their fists and claws at one another. The megazord tried to punch the monster in his gut, but ricocheted right off the pudgy, spongey creature, which gave Groundling the chance to slash at the rangers hard and knocking the megazord onto its back.

“Come on, guys!” Buddy hollered as they all pulled hard to stand back upright.

Twilight and Spike watched from the cave entrance, and Bronc watched from where he was, not even notice them as he was too preoccupied with the battle going on. “Finish them off!” he hollered up

“Come on, guys! Don’t give up!” said Twilight

Just as the megazord got back on its feet, Groundling decided, “Going down…” and he burrowed again.

“Where’d he go?” asked Fluttershy.

“I don’t know!” rhymed Rhymey.

Sunset then spotted the rushing grounds coming before them “Swerve right!”

The megazord then jumped aside making Groundling miss his mark, but he rushed at them again.

“Now left!” said Sunset, and the megazord dodged again.

Groundling popped up fuming angrily “That’s it, now let’s really Rock!”

He then curled up and did a huge rollout smash right into the megazord, rocking the rangers hard in the cockpit, and knocked them down again.

“Rock ‘N Roll!”

The rangers groaned and grumbled as they made the megazord stand upright again. “That’s it! Time to take this up a notch.” said Sunset.

With that, the megazord drew out its saber.

Groundling didn’t really seem to care and did another roll out straight for them.

“Now!” shouted Sunset, and with that, the megzord gave a huge slash, hitting Groundling hard as he came forth, making a huge shower of sparks fly and Groundling flopped onto his belly, but his claws and his teeth were totalled!

“Hey! My claws! My teeth!” he shouted.

“Alright, that got him!” said Rainbow.

“Right, let’s finish him off.” added Sunset.

“Star Saber… Engage!”

The Saber glowed brightly.

“STAR SLASH… GO!!”

The megazord waved the saber round, generating the shocking star, and slashed at Groundling, striking him hard, causing his body to jolt and flare, “I’VE HIT ROCK BOTTOM!!” he shouted… and he exploded!

Twilight and Spike cheered and rejoiced, but Bronc was outraged. “Vulcan won’t like this one bit!” he grumbled as he teleported away and was gone.

As the rangers rejoiced in the cockpit, the tractor beam was fired and Groundling was beamed inside, trapped in a sphere.

“Monster Captured. Mission Complete.”

Back at the prison tower, indeed Vulcan was not pleased with this failure, and as punishment he put Marla in charge of feeding time, giving her a cap, an apron and a trolley of food to feed all the prisoners in the entire tower. “What…?! Every single prisoner on every single floor?” she whined.

“That’s what you get for leaving the battle like a coward!” hissed Vulcan.

Bronc and Keto scoffed at her, but Vulcan turned to them and sneered “And the two of you may help her!”

“But, Master…” said Bronc.

“What? I didn’t do anything wrong.” added Keto.

“This was your plan Bronc, and you failed to beat a SINGLE ranger!” growled Vulcan. He then glared at Keto “And you; your growth spell is as ineffective as these two are!

…Now get to work! The prisoners need nourishment!”

The minions gazed out at all the floors and the many rows of prisoners hammering at their cells demanding to be fed.

While the minions contemplated over their long job ahead, Vulcan stomped off fuming, “I’m not done with you yet, Rangers. Not Yet!”

After sending the megazord back to the base to be refueled and ready for the next fight, the rangers and Twilight headed back to campus… feeling they would really have to catch up for missing a period or two, despite their duties and saving the island.

As they all walked down the hall, Twilight apologized for everyone getting into danger because of her. “I’ll try not to let my insecurities get me down so much again.”

“You shouldn’t really let them get to you at all, Twilight.” said Fluttershy. “You don’t have to be popular or anything, like that, to be special to us.”

“She’s right…” agreed Buddy Rose “You were the one cleverly bust down that barrier or Rainbow and I couldn’t have gotten out.”

Sunset put a comforting hand on Twilight’s shoulder, “I know how it feels to be haunted by my own insecurities, and believe me, it really stinks, but I know I’m better than that now, especially with all my friends around me and the good that I’ve done to now.”

The others all agreed, and Twilight felt a whole lot better.

“And this time remember it…” said Spike.

Twilight smiled, promising it.

As the friends walked along, they ran right into The Jazzies, and of course, Nikki was far from impressed to see the rangers hanging with Twilight and enjoying themselves. “I cannot believe you guys.” she scoffed. “I hate to say it, but you’ll never be as popular as me.”

Amber and Dionne agreed, but the gang gazed at her pitifully.

“We already told you this before,
We like our own ways, nothing more.” said Rhymey.

“That’s right.” sneered Rainbow “Twilight’s special to us just the way she is.”

“Besides…” added Twilight “If being popular means we have to be a stuck up diva, I’ll pass.”

Nikki gasped and nearly felt like fainting, and she did, right into Amber and Dionne’s arms.

“Oh, you guys are so going to rue the day you said that to us!” growled Amber.

“Totally.” added Dionne, and then she and amber dragged their miserable leader away, much to the gang’s humor, and they shared a good laugh.

Author's Note

Lucky I managed to squeeze all this in. I almost exceeded the allowed WORD LIMIT (At least 4000 but not over 6000 words per episode.)

That's what happens when you add too much drama and other things when under MY rules

Episode 5: Musical Workout

Author's Note

This goes to all the people who have been or are planning to get up my butt lately about my style of writing, and insulting me about my ways and my supposed ways (That you THINK are real)

If you honestly think a whole bunch of down votes and crummy reviews are going to get me to stop making MY fic MY way the way I PREFER it (So I don't have to put up with much of the garbage I've seen on TV and other stories these days...)

...Ha!

(Respond to this in your comments with any of the same old insults or non-helpful advice, and you will be ignored)

Episode 5: Musical Workout

EPISODE FIVE

Vulcan was doing some basic warmups to help him get into better shape and even out all the cramps and stiffness he had suffered from being locked up for five centuries. Every other single monster in the prison, not even Marla, Bronc nor Keto had been locked up as long as he had.

He even used the monitors to hack into TV-satellites and watch workout shows to help him keep up a good routine.

“You’re doing it!” the TV instructor said “You’re becoming mighty. Pump those guns.”

Vulcan stretched out, and twisted about as the people on the show did. “Yes… Yes!!” he shouted “I can feel the burn!” he literally could feel it as his hair burned a bright yellow, and his scaly skin sweat.

He was really starting to believe he felt ready for a challenge, when something went pop inside him, and he held his aching back. “A’RGH!! My back!” he groaned.

Keto heard him and rushed in, “Master Vulcan. Hang on sir…” he waved his cane and produced a new Mugic, “Song of Resurgense.”

The power of the melody magically took away the pain from Vulcan’s back, but that was about all it could do. “Thank you…” Vulcan said, rather gruffly “Say, what else can your Mugics do?”

“Nothing really much.” replied Keto “They can make creatures grow, heal them slightly or even power them up, but I can only use so many Mugics at a time. Besides, it’s been a long time since I’ve used most of them; ever since Starfleet locked me up for fifty years. I’m still a little out of touch.”

Despite those warings, Vulcan already had an idea, an idea so wicked that he snickered softly which grew into a maniacal laugh.”

“Sir…?” Keto called to him “Are you alright?”

Vulcan stopped laughed and glared down at him wickedly “I’m more than alright… but the rangers soon won’t be.”

(Que Intro)

The rangers and their fellow students were in P.E that day, doing track and field events to help work on their physical efforts. The rangers thought this an excellent chance to beef up their training and to keep fit for when they had to rush into action.

There was lap running, hurdle jumping, and even shotput throwing and high jumping.

Most of the rangers did excel at the events with ease, especially Rainbow Dash. Running the laps and jumping the hurdles were her favorite kind of events.

Fluttershy, however… she didn’t really do so well. She often got really nervous when in P.E class, despite her Friendship abilities and Ranger powers, and all she had been through… it wasn’t quite the same.

She didn’t run as fast in the racing events. She got the worst timing. She tripped over the hurdles. She could barely find the strength to even pick the shotput put and just drop it in front of her, let alone throw it far, much to the other students’ humor as they laughed at her.

Easily, the most embarrassing was the high-jump. The other rangers managed to leap gracefully and successfully over the bar set at high points, but Fluttershy, her nerves got to her again with everyone watching her. She ran as fast as she could, but all she could hear were people making fun of her, even though no one was saying anything, and she crashed into the bar instead of jumping over it, and it was set the lowest possible level so pretty much ANYONE could jump over it too, while

The rangers sighed and groaned at her fumble, while the rest of the class laughed at her. Then the insults started to fly.

“Look at the so-called pink ranger now.”

“If she can handle scary monsters, why can she handle a simple jump?”

Fluttershy felt so embarrassed she had nearly forgotten how to move, or even blink her eyes.

The gym coach blew his whistle at everyone, “Alright, alright! That’s enough! Everyone hit the showers. Class is up for the day.”

As the students all headed for the locker rooms, the other rangers helped Fluttershy up, giving her sympathy.

“Don’t let them get to you, Fluttershy. You tried hard…” said Sunset.

Fluttershy didn’t feel any better.

As the rangers went off to hit the showers, the coach called to Fluttershy, “Can I speak with you a moment please?”

Fluttershy squeaked nervously…

The coach was not mad at her, but deeply concerned, “It really pains me to tell you this, but your P.E grades aren’t looking very good, and if you don’t start improving your stats I’m afraid I’m going to have to transfer you to a different class.”

The other rangers all gasped.

“Transfer me?” squeaked Fluttershy “You mean… to a special class?”

“I’m afraid so…” replied the coach, and he held out a pamphlet of the special class he would send her too called “Division of Underachieving Minors.”

“D-U-M…?” Buddy Rose asked in concern, “You mean Fluttershy will be… Dumb?”

“It’s not even spelled right, there’s no B.” Rainbow pointed out, but regardless of whether it was spelled right Fluttershy was already on the verge of tears. “But… but I…?”

“It’s for your own good, Fluttershy.” the coach assured her, “To be honest, I’m not even sure how you make it as a ranger.” and then he left.

Fluttershy couldn’t only gaze at the pamphlet as, her hands quivering nervously as she just read those large letters … D-U-M…! “I don’t want to be dumb!” she cried.

“You’re not dumb, Fluttershy.” said Sunset.

“Yeah…” added Rainbow “Besides, you’re always great in action when we’re in battle.”

Fluttershy shook her head, “It’s not the same. Then there’s no so many people watching me, and I know all of you are counting on me which helps me, but here… I just feel everyone watching me, expecting me to mess up… and I do.”

All she could hear were those insults echoing in her head combined with people laughing, and then she remembered what the coach just said. This was making her begin to doubt her abilities as a ranger.

Rhymey hated to see his girlfriend so distraught and upset.

In the Boy’s showers, he and Buddy Rose went last as usual, so not to be with all the others boys snooping around to learn other things about their being rangers-- where their base was, who the brains were behind it all and that stuff.

As he and Buddy washed up…

“How could people say that stuff to her?
She is a wonderful girl, and a fine ranger.”

“Well yeah, but she didn’t really do so well in class.” Buddy said “She never was one for athletics and stuff. Remember the Friendship Games…?

Rhymey did recall the events then…

Though Fluttershy tired her best, and while she did excel in the academic features, she always ended up in last place in every single athletic game and event due to her Scopophobia-- a fear of being watched-- which caused her to miss, trip, stumble, and fall every time.

“And besides…” Buddy pointed out “Think of this, we all became rangers only because we were the only ones left who didn’t get hit in that explosion.

I’m not trying to open a can of worms here, but those are the facts.”

Rhymey couldn’t deny that either, but this only made him more than determined to help Fluttershy out.

It was only a half day, and school was out before lunch, as the faculty had to make discussions regarding Celestia’s upcoming maternity leave which would start soon, which meant they needed find a temporary Principal.

Rhymey had gotten permission to set up some equipment in the track field, while the others were literally dragging her out.

“Come… on, Fluttershy!” Rainbow grumbled as she dragged the “This practice will do you a world of good.” added Sunset.

“I can’t… I just can’t.”

“It’s either that, you’ll be dumb, remember!” said Rainbow, but that only made Fluttershy cringe even harder, and more determined now to run away so she wouldn’t have to even think about P.E, or any special class, and especially no one having to watch her fall.

Rhymey didn’t like the way they were treating her and he stepped in.

“Fluttershy, I know this is frightening to you,
And it’s something you’re uncomfortable to do.
But while all others wish to laugh and shout,
We just want to help you out.
So you won’t have to held back,
We can bring your grades up to the rest of the pack,
And I ask you calm and nicely,
Will you try… for us… and me?”

Something about the pureness of his rhymes and the honesty and belief in his voice always warmed her inside, and she couldn’t refuse, especially seeing as all her friends wanted to help out.

“Oh… okay…”

Rhymey smiled lovingly at her, and the others thought it was a very sweet moment.

Elsewhere, a sinister moment was happening…

Keto appeared in a dark alley a few blocks away from Canterlot High, and with him was a rather skinny and wimpy creature, wearing a and green and yellow jump-like suit, and his head was that of a bald headed, pointed eared, and barely visible facial features, his name was Stump, and it was aptly named for him as well.

Despite he was a criminal and despite being locked up for crimes he committed, he had been stripped of all his weapons and powers ages ago, and now he seemed nothing more than a mere weakling, hardly capable of walking and chewing gun at the same time.

“You sure this is great idea?” Stump asked.

“Oh, stop whimpering already!” grumbled Keto “With the help of my Mugic, you’ll be stronger and greater for the first time in… well… ever! The rangers will never even know where you’re getting your powers from anyway if I stay out of sight.”

Stump still didn’t feel so optimistic, but he reluctantly agreed to go along with the plan.

Back in the schoolyard, Fluttershy already changed into her training outfit. The others changed as well, and Twilight and Spike sat on the sidelines to act ad judges to calculate flaws in performances.

While Spike napped beside her, Twilight was scribbling down sketches of the field, as well as angles and trajectories. “Ready when you guys are.”

Sunset nodded, “Okay, now each of us will go first. Then you try and do exactly as we do, Fluttershy.”

“Um… okay.”

The first event was a simple lap around the track. “And… GO!” shouted Twilight as she clicked her stopwatch, and the rangers took off across the field… and Fluttershy was in last place right from the get-go, despite her natural magical skills would make her fast, she kept glancing over at Twilight watching her, expecting her to do good, which slowed her down.

Then they all tried wall jumping, and Twilight showed Fluttershy a sketch she had drawn, “If you pick up enough speed, and jump right here at this point, you should make it over.”

The others rangers ran, leapt and made it over the wall flawlessly, but Fluttershy… she got her running speed right, but then her mind went back to Twilight and the others watching her… which made her forget to jump!

CRASH!! Right through the boards, much to the others shock. Fluttershy didn’t even feel the pain from impact due to her magical strength…but she looked back at the hole shaped like herself in the wall, “Oops!” she pepped. Her cheeks went bright red.

The others only sighed.

Rainbow decided to try and get a little tough with her and acted like a drill coach. “Okay, here’s the deal.” she said, “You are going to listen to what I say, but not watch me. Then maybe you can think about what’s coming ahead instead what’s around you.”

Fluttershy only trembled softly.

“Um, Rainbow… that’s not helping.” said Sunset.

“Oh, sure it is.” retorted Rainbow, and then she practically yelled at Fluttershy “Now you get in there and show ‘em what your made of!”

Fluttershy walked silently and twiddling her fingers to the starting point of the obstacle course that was setup…

....Swinging punch bags, tire-hoping, a net climb, and finally a zip slide onto a huge, cushy inflatable mat.

The best record so far by any student was thirty-five seconds.

“Ready, Fluttershy?” Twilight called. Fluttershy nervously gulped!

“Ready… GO!!”

Fluttershy took off, and her entire run was a disaster…

The punch bags bumped her around like a pinball, back and forth, back and forth…

She tripped over the tires, twice…

She could barely find her footing in the net, and wound up climbing very slowly…

Finally, the zip-line-- she lost her grip half way through and ended up falling face-first in the sand below!

The others winced when she fell, and Rainbow smacked her forehead in dismay.

Fluttershy wasn’t hurt, but she couldn’t stand this any longer. “It’s just no use!” she cried “I can’t do any of this stuff right.”

“That’s nonsense-talk!” thundered Rainbow “We didn’t coach you to be a quitter! We didn’t help you so you could be transferred to some “Dumb” class… even if it’s not spelled right!”

“Um… Rainbow…” Buddy tried to cut in to get her to stop shouting.

“Are you saying that after everything we’ve done to help you, you’re just going to give it all up… JUST LIKE THAT?!!”

“YE-E-ES!!” Fluttershy sobbed. Her tears were cascading down her face, and she ran of crying and humiliated!

“Fluttershy, No!
Don’t go!” Rhymey called.

He was very annoyed with how Rainbow had just acted and gave her an angry stare before running off after his girlfriend!

Even the others weren’t very pleased with Rainbow overdoing it, and Rainbow herself regretted her actions, “I guess… maybe I did go a little too far.”

The others all sighed.

That’s when Spike yawned and stretched out, “So what did I miss?” he asked, but he soon could tell he missed a lot… the way the others gawked at him and questioned how he could’ve slept through all that.

“We better go find, Fluttershy.” said Sunset.

“I’ll head back to the base and see if I can track her.” said Twilight, and she scooped Spike up into her knapsack before running off for the nearest jump tube.

“Come on, let’s go.” said Buddy, and he and the others ran off.

Rhymey ran down the streets, knowing Fluttershy couldn’t have gotten too far, the way she ran in her current state.

He found her, sitting on the ground behind a large garbage dumpster, weeping miserably into her hands. It broke his heart seeing her like this.

“Fluttershy,
…Please don’t cry.”

She looked up at him with cascading tears on her face. “I just can’t do it, Rhymey.” she sobbed, “I’m supposed to be a Power Ranger, and a Starfleet/Friendship fighter, and I can’t even pass P.E.

I’m always going to be just a whimpering school-girl.”

Her confidence was really shot by this whole ordeal, it was obvious.

Rhymey sighed softly and sat next to her,

“You are a marvellous warrior, anyone can tell,
And there still many other things that you do well.
There are many things even I cannot do,
But I don’t let them get me, and neither should you.”

He lifted up her head looking her deep in the eyes…

Suddenly, their moment was broken by someone calling to them, “Oh, how sweet.”

They looked ahead and saw a monster-- Stump-- glaring at them.

Rhymey bolted upright and stood in front of the Fluttershy, while she, still shaken from her weariness and sadness, hid behind him.

“My name is Stump, and I’ll be the one who’ll be destroying you now.”

Rhymey noted his weak stature, and couldn’t help but chuckle.

“You think you can beat us alone?
Look at you, all skin and bone.”

Stump was not amused…

…and Keto peeked round from within an alley hissing softly, “That can all be changed…” and he conjured up a Mugic, “Song of Fury!”

The Mugic appeared over Stump and began to play.

“That’s a Mugic!” cried Fluttershy, and she noted the different song it was playing…

…that was when Stump began to grow seemingly more muscular, more powerful than he was before. Even his voice went from dumpy to deep and frightful. “Yeah, now that’s more like it.” he snickered as he flexed his muscles.

“Uh, oh!” cried Flutershy.

Rhymey clenched his fists. “Let’s go.” he rhymed.

Fluttershy rubbed her eyes dry and then proudly stood by her boyfriend. “Okay, I’m ready… It’s Morphin’ Time!”

“STARFLEET MAGIC… POWER ON!!”

Once they were morphed, they summoned their weapons.

“Raid Blade!”

“Strong Shield!”

“Lingos!” shouted Stump, and he was joined by a huge swarm “Now, get them!”

Rhymey and Fluttershy charged at the Lingos, Rhymey hacked and sliced his way through the creatures, and Fluttershy used her shield to block attacks, and kicked and punched the creatures away.

Rhymey noticed she was dodging their attacks like the swinging punching bags that hit her on the course, but she dodged the attacks like an expert.

Half the Lingos were already down, but Keto decided to kick things up a bit and launched another Mugic, “Song of Focus!”

The Lingos were bathed in the magical music, and their red eyes flashed brightly with more focus, and they lunged at the rangers with more fury than ever, and the rangers found it harder to land any hits on them, or defend themselves.

Rhymey took a swing with his sword, but missed as the Lingos dodged and then double-punched him hard.

“Rhymey!” cried Fluttershy, but then she got kicked in the arm, losing her shield, and then was grabbed by the arm and swung hard into a wall.

“They’ve never been this strong before!” she called over to Rhymey.

Rhymey agreed, and they both knew it was the Mugics that were doing this, but where were they coming from? Right now that was the least of their worries, especially since the monster himself was ready for a brawl.

“Let’s get busy!” he sneered as he pounded his strong fists together, and hit the rangers with huge punches, knocking them clear across the road like baseballs at a park.

“Wow, this feels incredible!” said Stump, and then he charged at the two rangers for more.

“Look out!” cried Fluttershy, and she and Rhymey rolled out of the way causing Stump to miss.

Rhymey then hit his morpher and contacted the other rangers…

“Mayday! Mayday!
Rangers, help us right away!”

He gave the coordinates…

“Hang tight! We’re on our way!” Sunset responded.

“Nothing will save you Rangers now!” growled Stump, and he turned to eye at Fluttershy. She wasn’t willing to give up so easily. “I’ll show you!” she sneered and tried punching and kicking him, only for Stump to block her every attack with his huge fists.

“Uh, oh!”

“My turn now…!” growled Stump and he gave chase with Fluttershy running fast.

Rhymey tried to run and help her, but the Lingos jumped him and held him back.

Fluttershy was forced to keep running, faster then she had all day, and she leapt up, up right high onto the roof of a small shop.

Stump leapt up high onto the roof as well and cracked his huge knuckles, “Nowhere to run now little pink!”

Fluttershy was scared, but she still tried her best to fight him off, punching and kicking, while Stump dodged and swerved about to avoid and block her hits, and he punched her hard making sparks fly and sent her rolling along the roof and stopping near a transformer.

Rhymey took a huge swing with his sword, slashing the Lingos out of his way.

“Oh, my…!
…Fluttershy!!” he called up onto the roof.

Stump stomped right towards Fluttershy snickering wickedly.

Rhymey wanted to jump up and help her, but a few more Lingos held him back.

Keto watched everything from the alley and was most amused, “This is it…” he muttered to himself as he gazed up on the roof “Finish her off!”

Stump pounded his huge fists together, “Say goodbye!” he thundered and then swung his fists back, but Fluttershy could already see her chance, and she leapt up high and over him, causing Stump to drive his fist hard into the transformer, shocking him, jolting him, making huge flows of sparks and explosions.

“Oh, no!” cried Keto.

Fluttershy landed safely on the roof. “Wow, that comes as a shock.” she joked, “and so does this…! KEE-YA!” Executing a powerful jump-kick, she booted him right off the roof and sent him crashing down hard into the street below.

As for the last of the Lingo’s, Rhymey knocked them all into one place…

“Once and for all,
You villains shall fall!” he snarled at them and he activated his sword’s charge mode.

“Raid Blade… Engage!”

His sword glowed brightly as he spun around on one foot in a pirouette, and then gave a single slash, unleashing a wave of Lightning at the creatures, destroying them in an explosion.

The other rangers, in their ranger suits, finally made it on the scene. “Whoa, what happened here?” asked Rainbow.

“Hey look…” Buddy said pointing up on the roof, where he and the others saw Fluttershy leap off the roof and land gracefully to the ground. She didn’t even flinch or seem the least bit scared.

“Looks, like Rhymey and Fluttershy handled It.” said Sunset.

Stump groaned as he lay on the ground, struggling to get up, but flopped down flat.

“You may as well give up.” Fluttershy said sharply to the fallen monster “No what do you say. Come quietly, or do we get rougher?”

Stump felt too sore to answer… until another Mugic began to play-- the Song of Resurgance-- and as his body glowed in the light as the tune played his injuries healed and regained strength. He laughed as he got back onto his feet, “How about you give up, or I’ll get tough?”

“What happened?” asked Sunset “Where did that Mugic come from?”

“I can answer that…” hissed a voiced. The rangers looked and saw someone walked out form an alley-- a stumpy little man wearing a mages costume and carrying a small staff in one hand and a spell book in the other.

“Who are you supposed to be?” asked Buddy Rose.

“Name’s Don K. Keto, Master Mugician and humble servant to Master Vulcan; but just call me Keto.

Many decades ago, in the Dimensional Universe, though I seem small in stature, as a Mugician I was able to use my powers to gain anything I desired from anyone-- I stole from women and children, I robbed a few intergalactic banks-- my life was perfect and rich, until Starfleet interfered and sent me to prison.”

“Well pack up your bag of tricks shorty, because we’re sending you right back to jail!” sneered Rainbow.

Keto chuckled “Really…”

“Yes, really…” said Sunset, and she and the rangers got out their weapons, and were about to from the Star Slammer.

“I don’t think so…” Keto hissed as he conjured another mugic, “Refrain of Denial!”

As the song played, the rangers’ weapons stopped glowing and didn’t combine.

“No way!” cried Buddy.

“What the hey…?!” rhymed Rhymey.

Sunset remembered her magical studies of mugic, “Refrain of Denial: It has the power to negate special effects of weapons and spells.”

Keto and Stump laughed at the rangers. “So you studied mugic, huh?” Keto teased “Well here’s one I’m certain you’re all familiar with.” he looked over at Stump “You ready…?”

“You bet!”

“I think our problems are about to get bigger!” cried Fluttershy.

She was right as Keto conjured not one but two of the same mugic, “Fortissimo!”

The magic caused both Keto and Stump to grow really big and tall.

“Ah, yeah, this is the stuff.” boomed Stump, and Keto stretched his long arms out, and then he looked down at the tiny rangers. “I wonder what little squashed rangers will be like.” he joked, and he raised his huge staff to swat them like flies.

“Watch it!” shouted Sunset, and she and the rangers all dodged. Sunset then quickly hit her morpher contacting the base, “Launch Star-Jets!”

“Summon Zords!”

Keto wasn’t able to negate the summoning of the zords, and soon the jets had arrived and the rangers beamed into their cockpits. “It’s time to shine!” shouted Sunset.

The jets hadn’t combined yet as the rangers didn’t feel quite ready. So they zoomed past the two villains, flying over, and around them in furious angles.

“So, you wanna play, huh?!” thundered Stump and he swung his large arms to swipe at the oncoming jets, barely missing.

“Whoa!” shouted Rainbow “Bad move, big boy! Take this!”

“I’m with you, Rainbow.” Called buddy, and they fired their jets’ lasers, hitting Stump full blast in a shower of sparks and small explosions.

The other three jets headed straight for Keto.

“Time to fight,
So say goodnight!” hollered Rhymey as he flew past him, nearly knocking his large hat off, and the girls fired missiles, but he swung his staff like a baseball bat, hitting them hard and making them explode before reaching him.

“I don’t believe it!” cried Sunset.

Keto laughed and shouted, “Oh, yeah… well believe THIS then-- Song of Ember Nova!”

“Ember Nova…?! That’s an Attack Mugic!” cried Sunset, and as the music started playing, fireballs began to appear like loaded weapons. “Everybody look out!” but Keto already launched the flame balls. There were so many flame balls that the rangers couldn’t hope to dodge them all!

Their jets were bombarded hard, and all the rangers felt themselves tumbling and being rocked about and nearly losing control of their jets.

“Oh, that is IT!!” snarled Fluttershy, and she rushed her jet straight forth.

Stump lunged forth, “Come here you!” he roared as he swung his fists about, but Fluttershy pulled back on her steering and swerved skillfully out of the way.

“Hey! Hold still!” thundered Stump, and he swung again only to miss as Fluttershy swerved. “Okay, that’s it!” shouted Stump, and he leapt up to tackle the jet as it zoomed by, only to miss and crash right into Keto. The two villains fell to the ground.

“Hey!”

“Get off me!”

“I’m trying!”

“Way to go, Fluttershy!” said Rainbow.

Fluttershy could only gawk in disbelief muttering “Wow, I can’t believe I just did that.”

“Okay, guys, let’s bring them together.” said Sunset, and the others agreed.

“Zords Combine!”

“Jet-Star Megazord… Ready!”

The two villains finally managed to scramble to their feet, only to see the Megazord standing and bopping its metal fists ready to fight.

“One target instead of five…? No problem.” Stump snickered, and he cockily lunged forth to attack, when suddenly, about halfway across he began to feel strange, and in a bright flash he lost his extra strength and powers, reverting to his normal skinny self, and he crashed right into the megazord, ricocheting right off it.

“Hey! What happened to my awesome strength?” he whined.

“The mugic wore off…” said Keto “I’ll fix that though,” but as he waved his staff to try and restore Stump’s power… nothing happened, hardly even a few flickers. “Uh, oh…!”

“What? What gives?”

“Oh, no!” cried Keto “I’ve used so much Mugic, my power’s running too low.”

The rangers were delighted to hear this. “You two want power… you got it.” Sunset called to them “Draw the saber!”

“Star Saber… Engage!”

Stump, knowing he didn’t have a chance, cowardly hid behind Keto.

“Hey, don’t hide behind me!” Keto shouted, and the two struggled in a disagreement, while the rangers finished powering the saber, and Sunset called, “Star Slash… Go!” and the megazord slashed, sending the power-star forth.

“Whoa!” Keto cried a she leapt aside, and Stump got hit by the force. “SOME HELP YOU WERE!!” he thundered at Keto before he exploded!

Then, the megazord turned to face Keto to make it two-for-two, but Keto could tell, what with his power weak and the megazord still strong, he would have to run. “You got lucky today… but there’s always next time!”

He activated his teleporter and was gone.

“Ah, nuts, that was our chance to get him!” groaned Buddy.

“We’ll get him someday.” said Sunset, and then for the monment they rejoiced their victory as they beamed their latest capture into the cockpit, sphere and all. “Monster Captured! Mission Complete!”

Vulcan saw everything on his screen, and angrily pounded the console roaring like a tiger. “Blast those rangers!!”

In his fit, he popped another stiff muscle, which made him angrier than ever. “Just you wait until I get you back here KETO!!” he thundered as he walked off riving and thrashing in rage, even shoving the Lingos aside as he went.

“I sure don’t want to be in Keto’s shoes when he comes back.” said Bronc.

Marla sighed with pity, “Poor little guy, I almost actually feel sorry for him.”

The next day, in P.E, the Coach made the students do the same exercising events from yesterday, and also set up the obstacle course. All the students did well, and then it came down to Fluttershy.

“Ahem… any time you’re ready…” he said with a sarcastic tone.

Fluttershy took her place at the start to run her lap, and when the coach yelled “Go!” she tore across the field flawlessly, and didn’t slow down a bit, much to the Coach and Students’ surprise.

At the hurdle jumping, she never tripped once.

She threw the shotput much further than half the class. Not the furthest of all, but enough to pass.

Then came the high jump, and as the students prepared to lower the bar to the lowest setting, “Leave it where it is!” she called over to them.

“But it’s on the highest level.” the coach reminded her.

“Just leave it!” Fluttershy sneered at him, and she charged forth and leapt majestically, soaring over the bar.

The rangers cheered for joy while everyone else was silent and shocked.

Nevertheless, the coach did have to give her a good passing grade, and while all the other students hit the shower at the end of the period, the rangers cheered and huddled around Fluttershy.

“That was incredible.” cried Sunset.

“How did you do it?” asked Buddy.

Fluttershy explained to them, “Well, this may sound silly, but I was really just thinking of the battle.”

While she ran, jumped and did everything else, she imaged the monster and the Lingos were attacking or chasing her, and that she was trying to outrun, escape, and fire at them, and that everyone was counting on her to save the island.

“…And it worked, I didn’t think of anyone laughing at me at all.”

The others were very impressed, and Rainbow shyly stepped forth, “Um… Fluttershy, I’d like to apologize.”

“What for…?”

“For putting all that pressure on you, and yelling in your face like that. Can you forgive me?”

She said nothing, but smiled and hugged her friend, much to the Aww of everyone. Then they all decided to hit the showers, but Fluttershy and Rhymey stood in the empty gym taking a moment alone.

Rhymey gazed lovingly into her eyes,

“You may be nervous and timid a lot,
But you have courage and strength too,
No matter what anyone else may have or got,
Know this Fluttershy… I always believe in you.”

She blushed, and turned bashfully away for a moment, but she was smiling. “Thank you, Rhymey…” and she leaned forward and pecked his check, and turned to walk to the girls’ locker room, but Rhymey softly held her hand and gently pulled her back towards him, capturing her lips with his.

She was at first surprised a bit, but closed her eyes, and curled her arms round his neck enjoying the embrace…

…Until the Coach blew his whistle at them. “Break it up, you-two… you’ll be late for your next class.”

The couple shared a small laugh.

Episode 6: Junior Rangers

Author's Note

This episode gave me a lot of trouble... (Nearly exceeded the word limit, I ended up having to delet and rearrange so many paragraphs so it wouldn't...)

but I figured I'd give the CMC some spotlight, but this episode is pretty much just a space filler.

Episode 6: Junior Rangers

EPISODE SIX

The rangers’ fame continued to soar, as they became more well-known all over Mystic Island. Fan-clubs, websites, billboards, and even merchandise-- Coffee mugs, T-shirts, caps, and even toys.

These items became really popular among fans of the rangers, especially four girls that attended Canterlot-High, from the Elementary Division.

Applejack’s younger sister: Applebloom. Rarity’s younger sister: Sweetie Belle. Their friend: Scootaloo, and finally Buddy Rose’s young cousin, Daphne Dill, simply referred to as DD.

Together, they formed a club; “The Cutiemark Crusaders” they called themselves, though it was rather a bizarre name for a club.

…Especially considering that unlike Equestrian Ponies from the dimensional universe, humans did not earn Cutiemarks.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle also got a little bit distraught at times, what with their sisters, Rarity and Applejack, being in the hospital after that accident.

They and their friends visited the hospital every other day or so when they had spare to time to give their blessings to the sisters and their friends, and pray for them to get well soon.

Still, the girls were the best of friends, which was part of their club, and another part of their club was helping people out, but most importantly; they all wished to find what their true destinies were in life… what they were made to do.

Their teacher, Ms. Cheerilee was most pleased to see them getting along so well, especially that day when all four girls did a lovely, large drawing of the Power Rangers, their favorite heroes… second to actual Starfleet fighters.

“We drew it because we admire the rangers so much, and are thankful for all the protection that they provide.” said Sweetie Belle.

“And that’s not all…” added Scootaloo “Because they also teach us to hold our heads up high and continue to stay strong, even in the darkest of times.”

Cheerilee was most impressed, and pleased with the girls. “Very wonderful, girls.” she then spoke to the rest of her students “You see, everyone? Attitudes like this are usually the key step towards finding courage and determination, and once you master things like this, you’ll find that nothing is impossible.”

Many of the students found that amazing, but it was the Crusaders whom truly appreciated it.

(Que Intro)

On beautiful days, the Elementary students had lunch and stayed within their own boundaries of the yard on the other side of the school, which was marked by a tall brick wall with a gate leading into the area. High School Students were permitted nowhere near the area, and the minors were not permitted to leave their territory without an escort.

Still, heir area was fairly wide enough for all as the Elementary division was small. Why Cheerilee’s class was practically the only one in the entire school for that. There was even a little playground for the children all to play and get exercise.

The crusaders had already finished their lunches, and were playing about on the monkey bars with their Power Ranger figurines, which was one of their favorite ways to play as they admired the rangers that much.

DD had a Green Ranger, since it was her cousin who was the real thing after all.

Scootaloo had a Blue Ranger, since she admired Rainbow Dash for a long time, even before she became a fighter.

Sweetie Belle had two rangers-- Yellow and Pink-- she knew Rhymey and Fluttershy were a happy couple, and though Sweetie was still a little young, she understood how happy they were being together, like a Prince and a Princess out of a fairy-tale.

Finally, Applebloom had Red Ranger.

“Hey… y’all.” she shouted, trying imitate Sunset’s voice while playing with her ranger “…There’s a trouble brewin’ in town.”

“She’s right!” hollered Scootaloo as she held up her ranger “Vulcan’s sent another monster. You know what that means…”

The others all nodded together, and held their rangers together shouted “It’s Morphin’ Time!!”

And they hollered about as they ran all over the yard with their figurines in hand…

…much to the annoyance of two of their classmates, Diamond Tiara and her stooge Silver Spoon.

“Ugh! Will you girls, like, zip it already!” thundered Diamond.

“What? We’re just playing.” said DD.

“Yeah, you heard of “play” haven’t you?” sneered Sweetie.

“Ha!” scoffed Scootaloo “You call that playing; we call it acting like preschoolers.”

She and Diamond laughed, but the Crusaders were far from impressed.

Then, two more classmates, Snails and Snips, showed up wearing goofy bowties and jackets, like butlers and brought Diamond and Silver sodas.

“Here you are Mistresses.” they said in rather sulky voices. The girls grabbed their sodas and snickered. “Care to play Butler some more boys?” Diamond asked.

“Um… sure…” Snips responded.

“Uh… what do we do now?” asked Snails.

The girls sarcastically thought about it, and Diamond said “You can start by giving us your cookies.”

The boys did as they were told, and then Silver told them “…Now go wallow in the mud like you were pigs.”

The boys almost did as they were told.

“No, don’t!” snapped Applebloom, and she and Scootaloo rushed to stop the boys from getting really dirty, while Sweetie and DD took back the cookies from their naughty classmates.

“Hey!” snapped Diamond!

The boys were confused, “But we have to do as they say.” said Snips. “Yeah, it’s the rules.” added Snails.

“Well, here’s some new rules…” said Sweetie as she passed the boys their cookies “Go and play in peace, and stop listening to these two divas! They’re just taking advantage of you.”

The boys gasped, and though they usually weren’t very bright, they knew what taking advantage of someone meant, and they did not like it one bit. They scoffed at Diamond and Silver, returned their bad butler costumes and stormed off.

Diamond and Silver were furious! “Why can’t you geeks mind your own business?!” sneered Daimond.

“Why can’t you stop being so mean all the time?” protested Scootaloo.

“Oh, you want mean…?” sneered Silver. Both she and Diamond were looking ready to get really nasty…

“Ahem!”

The girls turned and saw Cheerilee standing behind them, with her hands on her hips and tapping her foot. “Is there a problem, ladies?”

The girls acted sheepish and then zipped away, leaving Cheerilee to sigh in dismay and resume her duties to watch over her students and keep them out of trouble.

As for the Crusaders, they felt really pleased with themselves for helping their friends; just they always did in their club, but today however…!

“Wow, I don’t know about you girls, but I feel pumped up.” said Applebloom.

DD could barely contain herself, “I feel it too. Helping those guys and the many others we’ve helped… it’s like… we can do just about anything.”

“It’s like… we can do so much more!” added Sweetie.

They all looked down at their Power Ranger toys “…Are you girls thinking what I’m thinking?” asked Scootaloo, and the girls all nodded while gazing down at their toys.

Meanwhile, at Vulcan’s tower…

Marla was walking down the round walkways, passing by each cell and inspecting the prisoners on their looks.

“Ugh! Too dark!

Too hairy!

Ew, gross! I think I’m going to gag!”

The three creatures did not take kindly to her scoffing at them and would have loved nothing more than to teach her some respect as they hammered at their cells, snarling at her.

Marla just blew them a raspberry, “Tough bricks, boys!”

She got out her compact mirror and gazed at her beautiful face “It’s so hard to be ravishing in a world of ugly creatures.”

More creatures overhearing felt very offended and Marla then heard one of them speak out from a cell behind her, “Beauty isn’t the only thing you know…!”

Marla felt so shocked, not just by that outburst, that she nearly dropped her mirror. “That voice! Oh, no… it can’t be!” she turned and looked in the cell behind her, and inside was a female humanoid, devil-like creature with red skin, and white horns on her red. She even had a devil’s tail.

“Devila!” sneered Marla.

“It’s been a while hasn’t it, old friend!” Devila hissed.

“Ha! You and I were never anything more than partners in crime…”

Marla recalled how she and Devila were once the greatest notorious of intergalactic jewel heisters in the entire Dimensional Galaxy from their world.

With Marla’s incredible charm that could stun just about anyone, and with Devila’s cunning… as well as a super special trick she could perform… they robbed whole star-systems of their precious jewels, ores and refinery materials.

…But then, one day, while during a heist in trying to take a set of crown jewels being donated to a museum on a planet. Things went horribly wrong, Marla and Devila were about to capture the crown jewels, when Marla realized she had horrible split ends in her hair, and a hangnail, which made her scream out in shock… giving both crooks away and alerted the guards.

It also turned out that the crown jewels they tried to steal belonged to Grand Ruler Celesto, the commander-in-chief of Starfleet, and ruler of the planet Unicornicopia, whom was donating his crown jewels for a charity cause.

The ladies were caught and arrested, and from that moment on they become such bickering ninnies, that the guards threw them in separate cells in the tower.

“Why Vulcan lets an overbearing diva like you serve him directly, I’ll never know.”

Marla was losing her temper and protested, “At least I’m not trapped in a cell anymore!”

The bickering was getting so annoying, many of the prisoners hid under their mattresses to drown out the sound.

“QUIET!!!” Vulcan shouted as he appeared before the bickering ladies.

The ladies trembled before him and his look of fury and annoyance, and he unlocked Devila’s cell, turning her loose. “Since you both claimed to be old accomplishes, you can both get out there and find a way to crush those rangers.”

“WHAT?!” the ladies whined, not looking forward to the idea of working with each other again, but Vulcan flared up and thundered “…GET GOING!!”

The ladies freaked out and left the tower in the blink of an eye.

Bronc saw the whole thing, “Very well done sir.”

Vulcan snuffed “At least it stops them nagging. Now they’re the rangers’ problem.”

The bickering ladies appeared on Mystic Island, deep within the city, but remained out of sight.

Devila stretched out and took in a huge breath, “Ah, it feels so good to be free again.”

Marla was still being sulky. “Glad you’re enjoying yourself, but just what are we supposed to do now?”

“What do you mean “What do we do?”

“I mean… how are we supposed to get the rangers without a plan?”

“I was asking metaphorically! Gosh you are such a whiner! I already have a plan…and it involves and old trick of mine.”

She demonstrated her little trick before Marla, revealing she still had it in her. “Hmm, somewhat impressive.” said Marla, but she then grinned wickedly realizing what a dastardly trap they could set. “The rangers will never know what hit them.”

The Rangers were all walking to school together, but as they crossed into the boundaries, what the rangers saw next made them stop in their tracks.

There stood the crusaders, all wearing Power Ranger costumes…

-Applebloom: Red
-DD: Green
-Scootaloo: Blue
-Sweetie: She couldn’t decide between just one, so she split a Yellow and Pink costume together.

All four of them wore bicycle helmets, with little paper masks, like the fronts of the rangers helmets.

Fluttershy approached Sweetie Belle “Um… Sweetie Belle, what is this?”

Sweeite Belle lifted her mask, “Hi, Fluttershy…” but Applebloom quickly placed the mask back over her face stating. “You are not Sweetie Belle; you’re the Pink and Yellow Ranger.”

The rangers all raised eyebrows. “What’s going on here?” asked Sunset.

The girls all jumped about, doing kicks and punches, then they all stood together, and each of them declared…

Applebloom: “Whenever there is trouble, when someone calls for help…!”

Scootaloo: “When evil shows its face, and when our world starts to fall…!”

DD: “We will always rise to the occasion, to protect all that is good and decent!”

Sweetie Belle: “Evil, beware, for we are…!”

The girls each did a dance pose, and altogether shouted “…THE JUNIOR POWER RANGERS!!”

A brief silence followed

“That was… okay, I guess.” said Rainbow.

“Just play nicely, girls.” said Buddy.

The bell rang and the rangers had to go off to class. “Those girls and their games…” Spike chuckled softly. The others laughed softly too…

…but none of them realized the girls weren’t really trying to just pretend!

Meanwhile, the Crusaders were still wearing their costumes in class, but it wasn’t really against the rules as the school had no actual dress-code, though Cheerilee asked kindly for them to remove their masks and helmets.

In class the girls behaved just fine, but Diamond and Silver couldn’t help but want to poke fun at their classmates some more, and they passed them each a small slip of paper, which were goofy looking pictures of the girls, obese, in their costumes, with the words “Puffer Rangers” as titles.

The crusaders simply ignored it, they were all thinking of what good deeds they could do what people they could help, just like the real rangers would.

All through that day, they tried to help out their class mates, doing simple tasks.

-Like gluing crafts down.
-Carrying heavy backpacks and loads.
-Holding the door open.
-Getting a ball down from a tree.
-Helping Snails and Snips figuring out how to use their pens rights-- by clicking the pointer out so they couldn’t actually write.

Though their fellow students and even their teacher were thankful of all the help, the girls felt rather bored.

As the girls all walked home together…

“Well that sure was excitin’… Not!” groaned Applebloom.

“When are we going to get to do something really exciting?” asked Sweetie Belle “Like, fight evil, capture bad guys, or save someone in trouble.”

Scootaloo sighed happily as she looked up “Imagine, what if the real power rangers knew we helped save the city too?”

The girls could just imagine in… the papers read: “Small Girls Save Power Rangers from… whatever happened”

The rangers were in deep trouble from an unknown and unseen disaster, even the girls couldn’t remember what it was, and they had miraculously saved the rangers lives as well as the city.

“Girls, you saved us all!” said Sunset.

“That was very brave of you.” added Buddy.

The girls acted proud and smiled heroically.

“You were so awesome out there.” said Rainbow “How’d you girls like to join us and be real power rangers?”

The girls enthusiastically jumped right at the idea, and suddenly found themselves wearing real ranger outfits and standing with the rangers atop a building and being praised by all.

“Wow!” said DD, and she and the others sighed at how cool that would be.

As they turned a corner, they could see a whole crowd of people gathered in one place, outside the First National Bank.

The Crusaders were all too short to see amongst the tall people, but they could hear the people speaking…

“Someone’s being held hostage!”

“They’re on the roof!”

The girls then backed up, and could see the roof of the bank from where they stood. So many guys in black suits were up on the roof. Not a single one of them seemed to have any guns, and they were holding a young woman whom had long black hair and wearing a red work suit hostage. She was bound and gagged so she couldn’t scream and run!

The police had the bank surrounded, but they didn’t dare make any moves not wanting the young lady to be harmed by the goons on the roof.

The police tried to reason with the goons, but they goons would not even acknowledge them, let alone say a word.

The girls stood together, away from the crowds. They couldn’t get anywhere near the action with all the people and the police in the way, but as they all continued to gaze at the strange people in the suits on the roof…

“Somethin’ ain’t right here.” said Applebloom.

“Yeah, why won’t those guys answer them?” wondered DD “It’s almost like they’re… waiting for something.”

On the roof, hiding in the shadows, Marla was sinisterly watching everything. She did everything she could to prevent from being seen to give away the trap, and she quickly called “Come on, rangers… we’re waiting for you.”

The rangers were all at the base since school was out, helping out with few programs, and to catch up on their school studies in private away from all the crowds and fans whom admired them with their popularity and all.

They also took the time to help out around the base by doing menial chores, or assisting in minor repairs. Keeping the place and the equipment clean and working properly made everything like clockwork.

Sometimes, they even came to do some basic, private training, to keep their fighting skills up for any danger that was bound to happen.

Twilight herself was also working very hard at her computer. For days and days, she and the other programmers had been hacking, searching, many things that could help them all track down the location of Vulcan’s prison tower headquarters.

Spike was just lazing about as he chewed on his favorite bone. “How’s it coming?” he asked with the bone wedged in his teeth.

Twilight sighed and rubbed her weary eyes “Nothing. I can’t track anything. No energy signals, nor significant activities. It’s as if they found a way to block themselves from our tracking.”

The team all felt rather frustrated about this, not that they didn’t expect it would even be easy at all. “That tower comes from the Dimensional Universe, owned and built by Starfleet.” Sunset reminded everyone, “It’s probably made of materials and runs on technology, magic and systems even I don’t understand.”

Rainbow angrily pounded the table and grunted “Ugh! If only we could find where they are, we could them all down one and for all.”

Rhymey nodded and said…

“I feel the same way, too
But it seems that all we can do
Is to keep staying strong, right any wrong
And punish the baddies through and through.”

The others all agreed, but then the alarms went off and Celesto burst into the room “Rangers, there’s trouble.” he said “A hold-up at the first national bank.”

The rangers saw on the screens, from a live news report, the holdup-- the goons in the suits, the hostage-- but no signs of any dangerous alien activity. Just as they saw it, it seemed to be nothing more than a simple bank holdup.

“Oh, that poor woman!” cried Fluttershy “We’ve got to help her.”

“She’s right…” agreed Buddy “After all, even as normal fighters, we don’t just fight aliens, but normal crime too.”

The others all agreed, and Celesto sent them off through the jump-tubes…

But Twilight was rather concerned about the looks of those goons on the roof. “What are you thinking?” asked Spike.

Twilight didn’t answer and began to type on her keyboard, and the scanned showed what was really going on. “Oh, no!” she cried softly.

Even Spike growled angrily at what he saw.

“I’ve got to warn them.” said Celesto, and he ran off to the radio!

Back at the bank roof, Marla was growing impatient as well as uncomfortable in hiding, “What’s taking those rangers so long?” she wondered.

Before long the people in the crowd began to holler…

“The Power Rangers…!”

“They’re here!”

The rangers came leaping in from out of nowhere and onto the bank roof, and they just stood where they were, not saying a word.

The goons all turned and gazed at them, even turning their hostage towards to face them, and that’s when Sunset whipped out her Star Scepter and fired at the hostage and the goons holding her.

Much to the horror of everyone in the crowd below, even the Crusaders were shocked and livid. “They… they shot the hostage?!” cried Sweetie.

“What in tarnation are they thinkin’?” snapped Applebloom.

DD looked closer, “Wait a minute… Look!”

The goons that got shot got up, revealing to be Lingos in disguise, just like all the others.

“We’re not fooled by your little trick!” sneered Sunset.

“Good thing, Twilight warned us in time.” said Buddy.

The hostage woman angrily got up, and her eyes glowed furiously red as she transformed into her true form-- Devila. “You rangers got lucky, but it won’t save you this time…

…GET THEM!!”

All the Lingos threw off their disguises and attacked the rangers.

“Let’s go, guys!” said Sunset.

It was quite brawl as the rangers fought their way through the swarm of Lingos. Then they stood to face Devila, and though she didn’t seem like it, she was rather strong and swift, which she demonstrated by blocking their every attack, and hitting them back with strong punches and kicks. She even head butt them hard in the chests with her horns, and swatted them with her long devil’s tail.

…even knocking Sunset’s scepter out of her hand, sending flying far, far off the roof and way down into the streets. “No!!” she cried.

The scepter soared far, landing far up the street right near the Crusaders.

The girls all felt their nerves catching up to them, finally realizing the true danger the rangers were in.

Devila laughed, “Too bad, Red Ranger. What’cha gonna do now?”

Sunset clenched her fists furiously, but before she could answer, the other rangers were suddenly grabbed by long threads of familiar pink hair.

“Marla!” shouted Sunset.

“Surprise!” Marla teased…

…That’s when Devila extended her long tail and ensnared Sunset, binding her tightly.

The rangers struggled all they could, but they couldn’t’ seem break free from bondage.

“Looks like our little trap worked out after all.” said Marla.

“Our… trap?” sneered Devila “It was MY idea.”

“Yeah, but without my help you wouldn’t have caught all the rangers, would you?”

“Shesh, you two sound like sisters fighting over a doll.” teased Rainbow. That only angered the ladies, and made Marla tighten her grip around the four rangers she had. “Take it easy, we’re not melons!” cried Buddy.

“You think that’s rough?” teased Marla “Just you wait until we take you to Vulcan. I’m sure he’ll enjoy breaking you all limb from limb as we would have.”

“But first we’re going to have a little fun of our own.” hissed Devila “Sorta… soften you up a bit!”

With that, Devila sent a wave of burning energy through her tail, harming Sunset greatly, sparks flew all around as she groaned in pain, while Marla bashed and crashed the other rangers into one another, making more sparks fly, and each slam was more harder than the last.

“We’ve… got to… get out… somehow!” screamed Fluttershy.

“Yes… OW!
But how…?” cried Rhymey.

“Wow, this is so incredible!” cried Marla “Serves you rangers right anyway for causing us so much trouble.”

Devila laughed and continued to burn at Sunset.

Down below the crowds watched in horror, but were ultimately powerless to do anything about it.

Even the Crusaders could barely continue to watch from where they stood. “I can’t believe this is happenin’!” cried Applebloom. “Someone’s gotta help ‘em somehow.”

Sweeite Belle then looked behind her, and saw Red Ranger’s star scepter lying on the sidewalk, and she picked it up. “And that someone is us.”

The girls all saw her holding the scepter.

“Wait a minute! Us, go up there, and face those creeps?” asked Scootaloo “That’s nuts, we’ll get killed!”

DD agreed and pointed out, “Besides, we can’t use that thing. Only the red ranger can activate it.”

Sweetie Belle was aware, but she still didn’t feel about to sit around doing nothing when the rangers still needed help, and each of the other girls began to share her determination.

“But, how are we even going to get up there?” asked Scootaloo.

The girls turned back to see the crowds were much too preoccupied viewing the horrors on the roof, even the police were hardly watching what they were doing-- guarding the entrance to the bank.

The girls figured they could easily slip past everyone, and they did. Everyone was so focussed on the commotion on the rooftop, not a single person or officer saw four small school girls sneak into the empty bank and make their way to the elevator.

Twilight and Spike watched everything on the monitors, and the power levels for the suits were reading critical! “They’re getting their cans kicked.” said Spike “We’ve got to try and help them.”

“I… I don’t know what to do!” cried Twilight, but suddenly, Celesto dashed into the room. “Twilight, here…” he said tossing her a hard-drive disc, “The lab boys have just finished this program. Quickly, run it into the system.”

Not wasting time, Twilight booted up the disc and realized what it was; a program that would reroute unused computer data at the base straight to the rangers’ morphers, to re-energize the powers a little and give the ranger’s energy a bit of a boost.

Celesto explained, “I always anticipated the rangers would get themselves into a fix, that they’d need a little extra boost of power. Who knew my hunch would be correct.”

“This is incredible!” said Twilight “Hang on guys, help is on the way.” She hit the send command, but the computers showed a flashing sign saying “Error: Cannot Transmit”

Celesto grunted in frustration, “The lab boys warned me about this. It was their one slight flaw-- The evil energy from the monsters is blocking the signals. The rangers need to break free first, or we can’t help them.”

Twilight and Spike whimpered in fear, and turned back to see the thrashing!

The rangers were already beginning to look really beat up, and the all felt very woozy.

“Can’t… defeat… us!” groaned Sunset.

Devila snickered “Oh, really… and she slammed her down hard on the ground, and Marla did the same.

“Okay, that one really hurt!” groaned Rainbow.

Marla laughed, “I think that’s about enough punishment. Time to take you rangers for a ride…”

“…To meet your end!” hissed Devila.

The rangers grunted and growled, but still were hardly able to do a thing to stop them.

Suddenly, someone called out to the evil ladies, “Drop those rangers!”

“Huh?”

“What?”

The rangers looked up, and even through their weariness, they could see the crusaders, in their ranger suits, masks donned and all and all standing together, holding Sunset’s scepter.

“Girls!” cried Sunset.

“What are you doing here?” called Buddy.

Marla and Devila gawked at one another and then turned back to face the girls. They couldn’t help but laugh hysterically. “A pack of ranger wannabe brats? This is just too rich.” laughed Marla.

Devila’s eyes flashed red, “You believe you little runts are match for us? Puh-Lease… we’ve beaten the real rangers, and if you value your lives we’ll give you one chance to leave!”

The girls were growing a bit nervous and starting to sweat behind their masks, but they refused to go anywhere. “No, we’ll give you one chance.” sneered Applebloom “Let them rangers go, or else!”

“Girls what are you doing?!” cried Fluttershy.

“Please, everyone!
…Just run!” Rhymey called to the girls, but still the crusaders would not run, and just continued to stand where they were holding the scepter out.

“You had your chance…” hissed Devila, and her eyes began to glow “You were fools to come up here, and now you’ll regret it!”

“Girls… Run!!” shouted Rainbow “You can’t help us! Just go!”

The girls still did not move.

“Everyone get ready…” Sweetie Belle whispered. The girls softly nodded.

“Let’s toast ‘em.” hissed Devil.

“Yeah…” agreed Marla, and the both lunged straight for the girls to strike them, but the girls waited until the last moment, and then somersaulted along the ground past the ladies, casuing them to miss and crash into each other.

“Hey, you clumsy oaf!” sneered Marla.

“Me! It’s you who’s the clumsy one!” protested Devila, and the two ladies engaged in another petty bicker, which gave the girls their chance, but it was DD who had the honors… though she could not activate the Star Scepter, she was still able to throw it hard like a javelin…

The scetper soared straight and swiftly like a missile, splitting though Marla’s hair and hitting Devila’s tail, colliding into it in a small explosion, and the rangers were all knocked loose from bondage.

“They did it!” cried Twilight, “They freed the rangers.”

Spike howled in cheer, and Celesto was rather pleased with the young girls, though just the same surprised and somewhat shocked of what they did to begin with. “Quick, transfer the power.”

Twilight nodded and activated the systems.

At once, the rangers’ morphers began to glow, as did their suits.

“Hey, what’s happening?” asked Fluttershy “I don’t feel so weary anymore.”

“Whoa, my power’s getting higher.” added Buddy “I feel totally refreshed.”

Sunset felt it had to be the work of those at the base, it had to be!

Then she looked up and saw the crusaders standing before her, and Scootaloo holding out the scepter to her, “You’ll be needing this.” she said. Sunset grabbed her scepter, “Great job girls! You go hide over there, we’ll handle these creeps.”

The girls agreed and walked off to take cover behind the large air-conditioner unit.

“My hair!” shrieked Marla “Those brats split my hair!”

“Your hair, what about my tail!” whined Devila “I’ll be sore in the morning, and it’s all your fault!”

“My fault…?!”

“Yeah, you screwed up just like you did on our heist!”

The ladies ground at one another, but were suddenly snapped out of their bickering when Sunset cleared her throat at them, and the ladies turned and saw the rangers armed with their weapons.

“Looks like you both screwed up, this time!” sneered Sunset “Bring ‘em together, guys!”

“Weapons Combine…!”

“Star Slammer… Ready!”

“You two have had it!” shouted Sunset.

The ladies whimpered as they backed away and tried to run for it, and the rangers all shouted, “STAR SLAMMER, ULTRA-STRIKE!”

They whirled and slammed the weapon down near the ladies, just missing them, but the ladies still got hit by the explosions and fell off the roof, crashing down to the other side of the street.

Realizing they hadn’t a chance now, the ladies decided to make a hasty retreat. “We’ll get you next time, Rangers!” Devila shouted “You’ll see… We will get you!” then she and Marla teleported away.

The crowds cheered for joy that the monsters were gone, and the city was safe once again, easily however, it was Crusaders that felt the most overjoyed, and so incredibly amazed that THEY helped save the rangers.

…Still, the rangers de-morphed and glared at them with rather strange expressions.

“Uh-oh…” the girls peeped, fearing they were in trouble.

Meanwhile, when Marla and Devila returned to Vulcan, they both were in trouble, and forced into the same cell together.

“You can’t do this to us!” whined Marla.

“I don’t want to share a cell with this bungler!” sneered Devila, but Vulcan shook his head pitifully at them, “All the more suitable a punishment for your behaviours, not to mention your failure in getting the rangers!” he snarled at them “Perhaps this will teach you to work more positively together the next time.”

The ladies grunted and turned away from one another.

“Oh, and by the way…” Vulcan said to them “…Be nice to your other cellmates.”

The ladies’ head’s perked up at the word “Cellmates”, and they turned and saw three snarling monsters in the cell with them… the very ones that Marla had earlier been mocking about their looks.

…and they were looking to get a little even with her and with Devila for all the bickering she and Marla caused.

The ladies tried to reason with their angry cellmates, but it all ended up with thumps, bumps, crashes and shrieks while all Vulcan did was scoff and walk away, but Bronc and Keto stayed behind to watch with humor.

Later on, the rangers took their girls to the park where they could all speak privately.

“Girls, we’re not angry with you, just so you know.” said Sunset “And while we are grateful you saved us, we just want to know… what were you thinking coming into the danger area like that?”

“Yeah, you could’ve gotten hurt… or worse, destroyed.” added Rainbow

The girls hesitated for a moment, but they explained of how they were such admirers of the rangers. “We kinda wanted to do what you did.” said Applebloom “Ya know, help people out and stuff like that, and maybe become heroes or be admired.”

“Yeah, you guys are so awesome, and it looks like a lot of fun.” added Scootaloo.

The rangers felt somewhat flattered of being admired, “Well, yeah, I guess we are kinda awesome.” said Rainbow, but she got a hold of herself. “But still… that doesn’t change things.”

“Girls, what we do isn’t some game, it’s really serious.” said Buddy “You should never ever try to copy us, or even try to go looking for trouble.”

Rhymey nodded and said…

“Even before any of us became a ranger,
As normal fighters, we still faced danger.
Risking our lives and fighting the worst,
to help protect our world, and the universe.
But it still very harsh and extremely rough,
Girls like you haven’t a chance against this stuff.”

The girls, having learned a lot from their experience were more than understanding of that now, and realized just how dangerous being a hero really was.

“But we’re still really grateful that you saved us.” said Fluttershy, “But even still, next time, try not to get involved in the danger we face. We’d never forgive ourselves if something happened to you girls.”

The girls looked up and solemnly said, “We promise.”

The rangers knew they would keep their word, and each patted their heads, still very thankful for what they did nonetheless.

The next day, the girls came to school wearing their regular clothes and dropped their ranger act. They realized they didn’t have to be rangers to remain helpful, and that just what they did, helping their fellow students, and other people with small tasks made them helpful enough.

…Much to the disgust of diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. They both prepared a couple of spitballs and shot them through straws, hitting Sweetie Belle and Applebloom in faces.

“Hey!” the girls shouted.

The naughty girls snickered, but DD and Scootaloo had seen everything, and went to tell Ms. Cheerilee.

“We didn’t do anything.” Diamond lied, trying to cover up. Silver nodded innocently, trying to keep the cover strong, but their teacher didn’t buy it one bit. “I also saw you girls. I saw you shoot those spitballs at your classmates.”

Diamond and Silver knew they were busted.

“You can both go stand in the corner, and you will not be allowed at recess for the rest of the day. Instead, you will both stay here in class and do work. Understand?”

The girls sighed, but complied, while the Crusaders felt they got just what they deserved. “Well, looks like we did stop some bit of bad after all.” said DD.

“Let’s just not let it get to our heads.” said Scootaloo, and the girls all agreed and they continued to work on their new picture together… a picture of the rangers, and they in their costumes standing with them, commemorating how they helped them, as well as their devotion to their promise they made.

Episode 8: A Matter of Principals

EPISODE EIGHT

Celesto and Twilight were busy at the base, making sure all the monsters the rangers had captured were safely detained within their spheres. “How are those containment fields hold up, Twilight?”

Twilight looked up from her console, “Their hold up just fine. Thanks to my new program, we can feed the monsters natural energies without having to actually let them out of their prisons.”

The spheres were all kept on a shelf, behind a layer of special glass within the labs, and Professor Brain took time each day to study every creature, to learn more about them and maybe come up with new ways to stand up stronger against Vulcan’s forces.

“Fascinating, Most Fascinating.” he would say “Oh, if only things weren’t so top secret around here, these discoveries could revolutionize the theories of alternate beings.”

“Now, Professor, don’t be getting any ideas.” Celesto warned him “It was hard enough when people found out about Starfleet, if they find out about the Power Rangers and our base…”

“Yes, yes, of course, sir. I have not forgotten.”

The rangers then came in through the jump tubes, having just returned from another successful mission with another monster imprisoned.

“Well, back with another one, huh?” said Spike.

Sunset handed Twilight the sphere with the monster inside. “That was almost too easy.” she said with a smirk.

“Ha! You should’ve seen it.” chuckled Rainbow, and she playful punched and kicked their air reacting the fight, “We knocked that bozo over like a bowling pin. He hardly even saw it coming.”

Buddy pretended to be the monster and took the hit. “He was like, A’RGH… and Marla, Bronc and Keto were like “No way!” he paused and laughed “They ran off like cowardly cats.”

Celesto smiled proudly “Well done, Rangers. You serve us all well.”

Twilight placed the new captive on the shelf. “You guys sure have captured quite of few of these baddies.”

The rangers agreed while gazing at the many spheres on the shelf from the past weeks since their first battle, but they knew this was nowhere near over.

“Vulcan must be very vexed.
Who knows what evil he’ll try next.” said Rhymey.

Fluttershy felt a shiver go up her spine, but she couldn’t help but wonder what Vulcan was up to that very moment.

Vulcan was very displeased with his minions as he scorned at them, “Your performances today were horrendously pathetic! How can I be expected to conquer this world and sell it for a fortune, if you can’t even help me conquer five meddlesome beings?!

Well… I’m waiting!”

The minions lowered their heads in shame. “A-thousand apologies, Master Vulcan.” said Bronc.

“If there’s any way we can make it up to you…” added Keto.

Vulcan snuffed, “Well, as it so happens, the last few battles have given me an idea.”

He motioned over his shoulder, and there stood Devila.

“You!” snapped Marla.

Devila stuck her lounge out, “Thought you’d seen the last of me, did you.”

“Enough.” Vulcan snapped to both ladies, “I’m giving you another chance, Devila. Your skills will be most helpful in part of my plan.”

Devila bowed to him, “Happy to serve you, Master Vulcan. What is the plan?”

Vulcan went over to the computers and showed everyone an image of Twilight, much to everyone confusion. “But sir… she is not a ranger.” Bronc pointed out.

“I’m aware of that!” sneered Vulcan “However, she is tied to the rangers, which leads me to assume she may be in lead with those behind the secrets of the rangers, and if there is one thing business has taught me… “Know more about your enemy than they know of themselves.”

Everyone was starting to catch on to the plan, and Vulcan snickered wickedly as he gazed at the picture of Twilight.

(Que Intro)

The next morning at Canterlot High, after morning announcements, the entire school was called to attend a big assembly, which was held outside so everyone could attend.

Vice Principal Luna gathered everyone’s attention. “As of today, my elder sister, Principal Celestia, is officially on maternity leave.”

Many students felt a little disappointed that their beloved Principal was leaving, but they were still happy for her knowing she would soon have her babies, which they all eagerly wished her lots of luck and love with.

“As you know…” Luna continued “This means that we shall be welcoming a new temporary Principal to our school, and we have selected just the candidate.”

“Who do you think it is?” Rainbow whispered to her friends.

Fluttershy felt nervous and imagined a stingy, wrenching type of Principal whom would yell, and scream and frighten students into obedience and out-rule fun things. “Oh, my!” she groaned softly.

“And now…” Luna announced “Please join me in welcoming our new temporary replacement…”

That’s when the new Principal stepped out for everyone to see, and were they ever surprised, but not as surprised or as happy as Twilight was, “I don’t believe it… it’s… it’s!”

“Good morning, everyone… I’m sure many of you remember me, Principal Cadance of Crystal Prep Academy.”

Before she could say anything else, she received a very thunderous roar of applause and cheer.

Though she was from CPA, ever since the Friendship Games during the Starfleet Events, most of the Canterlot Students had softened up from the bitter rivalry, and knew fully-well Cadance was a good Principal.

After the final speeches, Cadance kindly dismissed the assembly and ordered everyone to their next period classes.

However, Twilight and the rangers couldn’t resist and approached the adults.

“Cadance.” cried Twilight.

Cadance smiled “Twilight!” and she hugged her sister-in-law warmly, and they did their little happy cheer…

“Sunshine, Sunshine, ladybugs awake
Clap your hands and do a little shake.”

Then she greeted the other rangers, “It’s so great to see all of you again, but don’t think this means I’m going to give you special treatment.”

“Oh, we understand, believe us.” said Sunset “But this sure is a surprise.”

“I thought you’d all be…” Celesto said as he came over, and he explained to them how Cadance, he felt was perfect to assume the role as new Principal. “She told me she needed a change of scenery, and she did miss Twilight a lot since she transferred. When she offered to come here to Canterlot High… well, how could I refuse.”

“Well, we’re glad it’s you… but, who’s going to run Crystal Prep while you’re away?” asked Buddy.

“That’d be me…” said a familiar voice, and everyone turned to see Dean Shining Armor, Cadance’ husband and Twilight’s elder brother.

“Brother!” cried Twilight, and she rushed over to him nearly tackling him in a huge hug. “Ah, Twily…! How, you been? I missed you!”

After recovering from the greeting, it was explained that Shining Armor had done great work as Dean of Crystal prep was due for a promotion, and by letting Cadance come to the Canterlot High, he would be running Crystal Prep as a trial run.

“Crystal Prep has the day off today though. So I’m just here to help Cadance settle in, as well as wish Aunt Celestia off.”

Celestia smiled, but she still felt a little sad about leaving work for a while. Suddenly, she felt her stomach give a little rumble, “Ooh… they’re kicking.” she said with excitement.

Celesto smiled with excitement as helped his wife keep her balance. “I think we better get you home, darling.” he then cast a look at the rangers, “And you all better get to class, you’re already late. Your new Principal has work to do as well…”

With that agreed, everyone headed off for the school, but Sunset stopped a moment to ask Celesto, which he already answered her with softly and he gestured at her morpher, “It’s okay… they know.”

Cadance and Shining Armor nodded, telling the others they knew everything, that the students were the Power Rangers and the special rules and excuses they had when duty called.

As they all headed inside, Celestia took a long last look at the school.

“Are you alright?” Luna asked her sister. Her sister sighed, “Yes… I’m okay; it’s just a little hard to leave.”

Her husband comforted her, “Come on, you need your rest.”

He helped her into the limo, and climbed in beside. Luna waved them goodbye as they drove off, and she headed back into the school herself…

…Unaware that Devila was hiding nearby in the bushes snickering, “It’s about time to put the plan into action.”

As Shining Armor and Luna help Cadance unload all her things she would keep at the office, Cadance came across a very special framed photo, of she and her late brother, Fratello.

Her sadness immediately surfaced. Not a day had gone by she didn’t grieve just a little bit, remembering what happened back then during Starfleet Events.

“You okay, honey?” Shining Armor asked.

His wife wiped away the tears coming to her eyes and smiled at him, “Yeah, I’ll be fine.”

Luna and Shining Armor sighed softly, feeling terrible for her… and a bit for themselves.

Soon afterwards, it was time for classes to change, and a young student was simply getting a sip of water from the fountain, and when he finished and turned to walk back down the hall he bumped into Cadance.

“Oh, sorry, Principal Cadance. I didn’t see you there.”

Cadance looked as if she were ready for a fight, “Just get to class!” she sneered gruffly. The poor students felt as if he had come face-to-face with a cobra, and he ran off like a scared puppy.

A few more students saw what happened and stood where they were gawking in confusion. “What are you all looking at?!” Cadance snarled at them “Get to class, now!”

The students jumped and ran off before she got even madder.

Cadance snuffed and then stomped down the hall, past the washrooms, where Buddy Rose had seen everything as he emerged. He had seen and heard everything, “What was that all about?” he wondered “I thought she was happy to be here?”

Sadly, he had no time to pursue this matter; he had to get to class…

…But at lunch, he told the others what he saw. “Principal Cadance?!” said Twilight “I don’t believe that. She never yelled at any student before. I know her better than that.”

“I’m telling you, I saw her.” protested Buddy.

“That sure sounds weird.” said Sunset “Just this morning she was saying how happy she was to be here.”

Twilight, still refusing to believe her sister-in-law would do such a thing, ignored the conversation and concentrated on her laptop, working on a few programs for the rangers, but also her own special projects-- things she had previous worked on for simple inventions, projects for honor-roles, and even some she spent months, or a few years working on.

…But it was the ranger stuff she had on the computer that worried the others.

“Are you sure it’s a good idea for you to be doing that here?” Rainbow whispered, “What if somebody sees it. Then they’d find out where our base is or such things.”

“It’ll be okay…” Twilight answered “These files are too complicated for most people to understand, and besides every file I have is encrypted. No one can get to them without my access codes.”

The others felt very skeptical, still…

“It’s still a big risk to take,
Just take care of all the stuff you make.” said Rhymey

Twilight sighed, and having already finished her lunch, she decided to go off and work quietly.

“Do you think she’s mad?” asked Fluttershy “We did accuse her sister-in-law.”

“No, just me…” said Buddy “I’m not going crazy, guys. I know what I heard and saw.”

The others still weren’t so sure, but knowing Buddy was not the kind to have hallucinations, they weren’t unsure either.

Twilight was walking down the hallway working on her laptop while walking, which was not a very smart thing, as she didn’t see where the janitor had left his bucket of water while mopping the hallway floor.

And she walked right into the bucket, accidently kicking it, sending a wave of water, that splashed along the floor and soaked someone’s expensive shoes…

…Principal Cadance!

Many of the students gasped with worry, and Twilight gasped too. “Oh, I’m so sorry about that, Cadance… uh… I mean, Principal Cadance.”

Normally, her sister-in-law was more than forgiving over a simple accident, but Cadance clenched her fists angrily and glared at her sneering “Do you have any ide a how expensive these shoes were?!”

Twilight could hardly believe the tone of her voice, and before she could say anything else, “Detention, now!” snapped Cadance. Twilight gasped, horrified, as did many other students.

Prinicpal Cadance’s sudden change in attitude was already shocking, but Twilight Sparkle, getting in trouble and Detention?!

“I… but…” she stuttered and stammered, and before she knew it, Cadance was forcing her down the hallway to the detention room and forced her inside.

Now Twilight was really freaking out. She had never had detention before, and being inside the big empty classroom, without even a teacher or staff member there, she almost felt like bursting into tears.

Outside the door, all the students were exchanging concerned expressions and muttered to one another, and Cadance turned to give them all a furious stare telling them to Back Off, making them all run before she gave them detention as well.

Once they were all out of sight, her lips curled into a sinister grin.

As for Twilight, she sat at an empty desk still trying to get a hold of herself. She could barely bring herself to open her laptop and work on any of the programs.

She tried to convince herself that this wasn’t happening, or more importantly, since it was… why was it even happening? “I’ve never seen her act like that before.” she said to herself.

Suddenly, a thought came to her, but before she could even act on it, something sharp struck her neck… a tranquillizer dart… and in a few seconds she fell out of her chair and onto the floor. Her glasses fell off as she fell and they slid along the floor.

A pair of Lingos were staring from the open windows-- one of them had shot the dart through a blowgun.

They crept into the room and snatched Twilight and her laptop, and carried them off.

Now, you can bet that from so many witnesses, word of Twilight’s detention spread fast amongst the school. Students were talking about with such concern, and of course even the Rangers heard of it, and they decided to act on it by going straight to Cadance.

“I told you guys something was up with Principal Cadance.” said Buddy

“This just can’t be happening.” cried Fluttershy.

“It can, and it has…” said Rainbow “And we’re going to find out why.”

They arrived at the main office and asked Vice Principal Luna to see Cadance. “I’m afraid Principal Cadance isn’t here.” she told them that Cadance and Shining spent the whole morning unpacking and never left the office, and they both headed out to lunch together when lunch hour began, and they took Spike with them to walk him.

The rangers all stood perplexed. “She never left the office, all morning?” asked Sunset.

“That’s what I just said.” replied Luna “Is there something wrong?”

They explained to her what had just happened, and now she was most perplexed, “Twilight Sparkle… in detention?”

Rhymey replied…

“It’s what everyone is saying out there,
Everyone says that isn’t fair.
They also say the Principal is very mad.
They say that’s she’s acting very bad.”

“What?” snapped Principal Cadance. She and her husband with Spike just came back from their lunchbreak and walking the dog. Cadance heard everything “I would never act in such a way, and I would never give Twilight detention for an obvious accident.”

Shining Armor and Spike were most concerned. “I’ll go check the detention room.”

Spike could hardly believe this, “Twilight’s never gotten a detention before in her life. This is just crazy.”

Everyone decided to check the footage from the school security cameras. Sure enough, “See… there I am, leaving with Shining Armor and Spike.” said Cadance.

“Wait! Look there…” said Fluttershy. Everyone had just seen Cadance leave the building, yet a split second later there she was, alone, walking past the office, with a furious look on her face, and then she yelled at a student.

They were all very surprised, and replayed the footage several times to make what they saw was no trick.

Sunset’s features hardened. “I bet I know what’s going on.” The other rangers agreed with her, and their fears were confirmed when Shining Armor returned, “She’s not there.” He even held up Twilight’s glasses, which immediately told everyone she was probably kidnapped.

They quickly reviewed more footage from the detention room, and witnessed Twilight being knocked out and dragged off by the Lingos.

Spike growled angrily, and Shining Armor… he was growling too. “Those creeps took my little sis! They’re going to pay for this.”

Rainbow calmed him down, “Whoa, whoa... easy there, big guy. You better leave this to us.”

“Yeah, we’ll find her. Don’t worry.” said Buddy.

Shining Armor calmed down, “Please… just find her. If anything happens to her, I’ll never forgive myself.”

Cadance was starting to worry too. Here she hardly been to her new job for half a day and things were falling to pieces.

“Let’s get to the base, and try to locate Twilight from there.” suggested Sunset. The rangers agreed and dashed off, leaving Spike with the adults. They headed outside and found a secret jump tube hidden near the flagpole in front of the school where no one was looking.

Meanwhile, several blocks from the school near a forest edge, Twilight awoke to discover she was tied, bound, to a tree by thick chains. Though she didn’t have her glasses she could tell who was with her… a swarm of Lingos, Vulcan’s minions, and someone who looked and sounded like Principal Cadance, but it obviously wasn’t her.

However, she couldn’t see what else was going on; Bronc was working at Twilight’s laptop trying to use what knowledge he had to try and gain access to the files.

“What are you doing?” she demanded to know.

“Why, so you can alert your ranger friends?” Keto teased.

Twilight struggled, but couldn’t break out of the chains. “My friends helped me before. They’ll find you again, and they’ll make you pay.”

Marla snickered, “Even if they come, it’ll be too late. We’ll have what we came for.”

The fake Cadance then transformed into Devila, and she boasted “Thanks to my cleverness.”

“Hey, it was Vulcan’s idea.” protested Marla.

“He still couldn’t pull it off without me anyway.” growled Devila.

Keto was so annoying by the bickering that he pulled his hat over his head and plugged his ears, but it was Bronc who spoke up. “Knock it off! I can’t concentrate!”

He wasn’t kidding, he was really growing frustrated trying to hack into the files and download them all onto a special drive of his own. “Ugh! Every one of these files is encrypted! I can’t get in!”

Twilight felt relieved, but her relief faded as Bronc approached her and gazed at her in a threatening manner. “The access code… Tell me them!”

“Never!” shouted Twilight “I’ll never let you hack my computer!”

Bronc was losing his patience, and would have struck her, but Keto stopped him, “Bronc… as much as I would like to pound her myself, we need her codes, and she doesn’t have to even tell us. I’ve got a special Mugic I’ve been saving for a special occasion.”

Twilight didn’t like the sound of that one bit!

Meanwhile, as soon as the rangers got to their base, informed Celesto of the situation and asked for his advice. “If Twilight’s been kidnapped by Vulcan’s forces, the computer should help you track them.”

With Professor Brain’s help, he located signs of alien DNA. “They are a few miles from here, near the forest edge, south east from Canterlot High.”

“Right, let’s go!” said Sunset.

“I just hope we’re not too late!” cried Fluttershy.

With the jumps already programed, they jumped in and were off.

“Good luck, Rangers.” muttered Brain.

Keto loomed over Twilight, and he was so close she could see the sinister look in his eyes, which made her sweat nervously, and he cast his mugic above her “Decomposition!”

As the wicked Mugic played its song, both Keto and Twilight screamed as they were both engulfed in the magic.

“What are you doing?!” shouted Marla.

“I think he’s going to blow!” cried Bronc, but suddenly the light faded, and both Twilight and Keto felt very weary and Keto collapsed onto the ground, but he was chuckling as he caught his breath “I… have… the codes!”

“No… Im… possible!” groaned Twilight.

Once Keto got back on his feet he helped himself to the computer and began to successfully break all of Twilight’s security locks, and Twilight was powerless to stop them.

As Keto worked, he explained about his mugic. “Decomposition… it’s the rarest and most powerful mugic I was ever able to conjure. It allows me to gain the strengths, knowledge, or even the courage of the subject I cast it upon for a very short while, but the mugic is powerful that is drains the energy of both the caster and the subject… overusing it could be lethal.”

He paused and thought back “That was how Starfleet caught me, I overused it… I became too weak to resist capture, and subjects like the rangers and Starfleet are too powerful for the Mugic to work anyway.”

“Never mind that now. Just hack the files already.” whined Marla.

“Alright!” snapped Keto, “There… we’re in. We can start downloading.”

“Oh, no!” cried Twilight.

Bronc snickered and pulled out a USB-Disc he created, slipped it into the computer and the downloading began. Unfortunately there so many files, and so much data, it would take quite a few hours just to download even a little of them.

“We better get this back to Vulcan right away.” Bronc said as he picked it up. The others agreed and planned to follow him, when suddenly they were bombarded by powerful blasts, and Keto dropped the laptop into the bushes.

There stood the rangers, morphed and holding their weapons, and Sunset called to the villains, “Party’s over, you creeps!”

“Guys!” Twilight cried in delight.

The villains were not pleased.

Rainbow glared at Devila, “So we were right; it was YOU disguised as Cadance!”

Devila snickered “You’re just figuring that out now? Well it’s too late anyway! We got what we wanted, but perhaps we may not require it anyway.”

The rangers wondered what they meant and Twilight told them how they hacked her computer files.

Everyone looked and saw the laptop lying atop a small bush, and it was still downloading files onto Bronc’s disc-drive.

“We’ve got to get it!” cried Fluttershy.

“Oh, no you don’t!” thundered Bronc, and all at once, a huge struggle erupted in attempt to get Twilight’s laptop. “Stop them!” Marla called to the Lingos, and the swarm of Lingos leapt right out before the rangers, stalling them and forcing them to fight their way through.

Rainbow fired her sonic cannon, blasting several lingos to the ground, and Buddy powered up his whip, and gave it a huge crack, lashing several more in one swipe.

Rhymey then leapt his way over to Twilight.

“Hold still,
I’ll free you, I will.” he said, and he took a huge swing with his sword slashing the chains, actually breaking them and releasing Twilight.

Rhymey then handed her back her glasses which he brought with him, and she put them back on. “Thanks, a lot Rhymey.”

Rhymey nodded at her.

“We’ve got to get that laptop!” hollered Sunset.

Marla had already picked it up, “Too late, Rangers.” her teammates stood near her. “Looks like things worked out for us after all.” Keto laughed. “Come, let’s get back to Vulcan.” said Bronc, and they began to walk off.

“They’re getting away!” cried Fluttershy.

Rainbow hated for what she was about to do, but she aimed her cannon directly at the laptop.

“My laptop! All my files…” cried Twilight, this made it all the more hard for Rainbow to want to shoot, but Sunset warned Twilight, “Sorry Twilight, but we can’t let Vulcan get the files. He could find where our base is, and learn all our secrets and plot against us.”

“Right…” said rainbow “It’s gotta be this way.”

Then she charged up her cannon to full power…

“Sonic Cannon… Engage!”

“…FIRE!!”

She blasted directly at the laptop, blowing it out of Marla’s hands, blowing it to pieces. “No!!” cried Marla. “The downloads… they’re ruined!” shouted Bronc.

Twilight shut her eyes and clenched her fists tightly was the pain and woe struck her right through the heart. Though it was understandable, it still hurt!

“Why you, blasted rangers!” thundered Keto “We’ll teach you!”

Sunset told Twilight duck down and out of sight while she and the rangers dealt with the villains, and what a furious fight it was.

The minions, so angry that their plan seemed to have failed, fought more ruthlessly than ever, striking and blasting the rangers hard, but the rangers still managed to fight back, striking them all back, making sparks and explosions fly.

“Star scepter… fire!” shouted Sunset, and she bombarded Marla with a cluster of stars and beams.

Bronc fired his eye-beams, but Fluttershy reflected the blast back at him with her shield.

“Time for a little mugic!” snarled Keto, but before he could try anything…

“Oh, no you don’t!” Buddy snapped, and with his whip, he struck Keto’s hands making him drop his staff. “Take this!” Rainbow shouted, and shot at him with her cannon, knocking him hard into Marla and Bronc and sent the trio rolling along the ground.

“Yeah! Three down, and one to go!” hollered Sunset.

“I agree…” said a second Sunset, which confused everyone at first, but then realized it was obviously Devila, disguised as Sunset.

The two red rangers then began to brawl and spin around, confusing everyone.

“Guys, help me out!” cried one of the Sunsets.

“No, help me out!” cried the other, but the rangers stood puzzled and frustrated.

“Oh…! Which one do we help?” cried Fluttershy.

The rangers then cast a look Twilight, but she shook her head and told them. “I don’t have my scanner with me, it’s still in my backpack at school. You have to figure it out yourself.”

The two red rangers continued to brawl, and then engaged in a fist lock. “Why don’t you just give it up!” shouted one of them. “It’s YOU who should give up!” protested the other.

“Ugh! This is making my head ache!” groaned Rainbow, but saying that gave Buddy an idea. “Maybe we can outsmart the fake one…” then he called over to the two rangers… “Hey, Sunset…!”

“What?!” the two rangers said at the same time.

“Why don’t you use your Star Scepter?”

The two rangers liked the idea, and each got out their star scepter, and began to parry at once another like having a swordfight. “Time to kick this up a notch…” said one of the two, and she prepared to charge her scepter up.

“Fine by be…!” sneered the other, and she got out her scepter and charged it up straight away.

“Aha!” shouted Buddy, and he and the others ran over to the first Sunset-- the real Sunset!

“What?! How could you tell?!” shouted Devila.

“You may look like me, and copied my powers, but they don’t work exactly the same… otherwise when you charged up your weapon it would’ve said…” she paused and then charged up her scepter, and the automated voice called out…

“Star Scepter… Engage!”

Outraged, Devila fired a powerful beam form her scepter, but Sunset countered with her own power, pushing Devila’s force back at her, colliding into her with a huge explosion, knocking her over, and she transformed to her normal state. “You’ll pay for that!”

“It’s YOU who’s going to pay!” shouted Sunset “Bring ‘em together guys!”

“Right…!” shouted the others.

“Weapons, Combine!”

“Star Slammer… Ready!”

“You think I’m scared of that that thing?!” shouted Devila, and she foolishly lunged forth as the rangers all stood together, “STAR SLAMMER… ULTRA-STRIKE!!”

The weapon was whirled round, and slammed right on Devila, causing her to jolt and flare up, “OKAY, NOW I’M SCARED!!” she hollered before she exploded, and was imprisoned in a sphere.

The rangers rejoiced, and Twilight was very pleased, but still a little upset that it came at a price of her laptop.

Speaking of her laptop, the three minions were salvaging at its shattered remains, but it was already hopeless. “It’s completely destroyed!” whined Marla.

Keto angrily pounded the ground, “We were so close!”

“Wait…!” snapped Bronc, and he bent down and picked up his own USB-Stick that he was using for the downloads, the one part of the whole thing still in one piece. “There may still be a chance… Let’s go!”

Then he and the others, not caring at all that Devila had been captured, teleported and went back to Vulcan.

“No! They got away again!” thundered Sunset.

“We better go, forget those slime!
We’ll get them next time.” said Rhymey.

With that agreed, they all took Devila’s sphere with her inside, and headed back to school.

When the minions got back to the tower, Bronc handed the disc to Vulcan to see if the download was successful in getting anything of any importance at all.

“Well this mission was certainly a bust.” groaned a Keto.

“Well why didn’t you cast more mugic then?” sneered Marla.

“Hey, I dropped my staff, what did you want.”

“Will you two knock it off!” thundered Bronc “Things are already bad enough as they are. Master Vulcan hasn’t said a word since we returned. He must be furious with us.”

That’s when Vulcan came out from the labs, and the minions immediately fell quiet, fearing for his oncoming wrath, but much to their surprise, he didn’t seem too upset.

“Master Vulcan…?” asked Bronc.

Vulcan was clutching the USB-Stick and snickered, “You don’t don’t how lucky you are, all three of you.” he hissed.

The minions were more confused than ever.

“But we failed to beat the rangers?” said Marla.

“And we didn’t download all the data you wanted.” added Keto.

“Perhaps…” said Vulcan “But after reviewing this disc, you did manage to gather a little bit of information that could prove useful to us in the future.” he snickered, and then said “For this, I suppose I will spare you all… this time.”

Then he walked off with the disc still in hand, leaving the minions speechless. It wasn’t often Vulcan acted like this, which lead them to believe whatever they managed to download had to be something very big.

Once the rangers and Twilight got back to school, after dropping off Devila at the base, they headed straight to the Prinicpal’s office, where Cadance and Shining Armor were delighted to see her back safely, but Spike was so happy he tackled her to the ground and licked her face all over.

“Okay, Spike! Okay! I’m glad to see you too!”

Fluttershy pulled Spike off of her, and the others helped her to her feet.

“Twily, I’m so glad you’re okay.” said Shining Armor. “We all are…” added Cadance “And I’m really glad you beat that imposter of me. The whole school knows that it wasn’t me either.”

“Yeah…” Twilight said “But still, my laptop. All that work… so many years… so many projects… all lost in one split second.”

The others felt pity for her, especially Rainbow as she was the one who blasted the laptop. “I just did what I had to do.” she said.

“Right, Rainbow…” said Sunset “If Vulcan had gotten the files, he could’ve found out all our secrets, or worse; find where our base is.”

“If he got all that… then,
He would bust us wide open.” said Rhymey.

Twilight smiled weakly, “I understand, and I guess it was for the best. I’ll just retype all my projects up again, and I can download copies from the base.”

“There, you see… maybe it wasn’t so bad after all.” said Buddy.

“And besides…” added Fluttershy “You’re safe too. That means a lot to us.”

The others all nodded, and Twilight felt very touched. “Thanks… all of you.”

Author's Note

Twilight may be playing the Damsel in Despair a bit, but it helps the plot go along.

She's just no fighter like the actual Starfleet fighters, or the rangers. it

Episode 9: Rush and the Raging

Author's Note

Humph!

I almost finish this chapter, then I finally get to see episode 3 of Ninja Steel, and they use a speedy monster.

Ah well, it's been done before anyway (Power Rangers was milked dry years ago. It's very difficult to make ANYTHING original with it)

Episode 9: Rush and the Raging

EPISODE NINE

Marla was actually working, not on her nails, not on brushing her long hair, but actually working at one of the lab sets.

“At a risk of sounding curious and shocked to see; what are you doing?” asked Keto.

“This is a little something I stumbled upon during my days as a beauty queen, before I turned to crime.” replied Marla. This made Keto laugh, “You were a beauty queen? I find that hard to believe.”

Marla glared down at him, angrily snarling like a jaguar. “Okay, Okay, I take it back.” cried Keto.

Marla snuffed and continued mixing up a potion, “I call it Rage Powder. It’s odorless, tasteless, and dissolves in any liquid, yet one little sip of this will make you so enraged and cranky, you’ll turn on everyone around you, maybe get into fights.

I used this in competitions, to enrage the other competitors, making it easier for me to win.”

“Winning by cheating…” Bronc said with dismay “I don’t know whether to feel astounded or sick.”

Marla scoffed and said, “Well, just you wait until you see this powder in action.”

She mixed a little bit of the powder into a simple cup of water, and gave it to an unsuspecting Lingo, “You look so thirsty… thought you might like a drink.”

The Lingo, unaware of the trick, took the water and then took a single sip. Its eyes then began to glow red, and it took off in a rage, smashing the chairs, flipping over tables, and shoving fellow Lingos out of the way before frolicking in a fit out of the room, passing Vulcan along the way.

“What’s going on here?” he demanded to know.

Marla snickered, “That was a demonstration of my Rage Powder. If it can do that do a Lingo, imagine if it happened to the rangers.”

Vulcan seemed a bit impressed, and before he could ask how she intended to pull this off, Marla then motioned for a monster she had released to come forth.

She was a slender creature; yellow skin, long, fiery red hair, and she wore an air mask over her face, and thick goggled across her eyes. She also had strong, muscular legs and wearing powerful looking runners.

“The name’s Speedra!” she hissed, and she then demonstrated the meaning her name by zipping very quickly behind Vulcan “Too quick for you?”

She then zipped behind Bronc, “That’s how I work.”

She then zipped and stopped before Keto, freaking him out and making him fall onto his bottom.

Marla then gazed back towards Vulcan whom was grinning wickedly. “Very well, Marla…” he said, then his features hardened “But don’t fail me… or I’ll show you what rage really is.” He raised his hands as they glowed with power, making Marla shudder in fear.

(Que Intro)

There was a buzz in the air on that Saturday, many of the students at Canterlot high were doing events for charity to raise money for the hospital where the comatose students were being treated, and for other places that needed money as well.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders were walking around the suburban part of the island, hauling wagons full of jars of the Apple family’s homemade Apple-Cider. It was something they did every season, and helped make a little money for charities, especially this year…

They would knock at people’s doors and ask if they would like to buy a bottle of cider, and explain they were gathering donations for the hospital… where Applejack, still in her coma, was being treated.

When people heard about this noble cause, and couldn’t resist four cute little girls working hard, they were more than pleased to buy a bottle or two.

Some even paid more than usual price, and others gave the girls each a small tip for themselves.

When they got back to school and counted up their assets, “Wow! We’ve made over five-hundred dollars just today.” said Sweetie Belle.

“That’s awesome!” cried Scootaloo “Imagine what we could buy with this much.”

She imaged buying herself a cool new skateboard, or brand new jet-propelled scooter that she could use to take to the skies and make people gaze at her with awe.

“Uh, hate to burst your bubble, but you forget we’re doing this for Charity.” said DD.

“She’s right.” added Applebloom “The hospital would use every cent we make, if it means my big sis and her friends will get more help.” She sounded dead serious, more than ever before, and the others couldn’t blame her.

“I’m sorry, I just got carried away.” said Scootaloo.

“Never mind…” said Applebloom, “Let’s get back to the school ground and show the others.”

Many of the students were having their own charity events right at the school, with kind permission from Principal Cadance and her Uncle Celesto.

They were supervising the events, and Celestia was with them, as the doctor said it was okay for her to get a little fresh air now and then… but only for a little while.

There were many kinds of events in the school yard; a bake sale, the artistic students painting self-portraits of those donating. The athletic students even got permission to host charity play time in the school yard with sports equipment, letting children play basketball, or jump on the trampoline… heavily supervised of course so no one would get hurt.

At the front of the school…

Rhymey, Buddy Rose and Rainbow dash were doing a carwash, and were busy scrubbing away. Rainbow even found time to spite shine the hubcaps. The car was so shiny; they could all see their reflections in the paintwork.

Meanwhile, Fluttershy was running and pet wash, while she gave baths and grooming to other people’s pets. Sunset was helping her, but she was having a lot of trouble getting a dog to stop from fussing about in the tub. “Oh, come on!” she groaned “I know you don’t like it, but you really need a bath.”

Still, the dog would not calm down.

“Let me try something…” said Fluttershy, and she calmly stroked the little dog and spoke soothingly to it “It’s okay. You don’t have to be scared; we’re just going to give a nice rub down. Then you’ll be all clean and shiny. Won’t that be nice?”

The dog calmed down and smiled at her, and from then on it cooperated entirely and just settling into the warm, soapy water.

Sunset sighed, “How do you do it?”

“It’s just my specialty.” Fluttershy said with a playful smirk.

Celesto and the adults came by the rangers stations just as their last customers left. “Ah, this is what I like to see;” he said “Good healthy community spirit.”

“How have you been enjoying maternity leave?” Cadance asked Celestia.

“It’s horrible…” replied Celestia “Half the day I stay in bed, I’ve already read all my books, Television isn’t much fun.”

“Now, now, honey…” said Celesto “You should really enjoy the rest while you can. Once the babies are born we’ll both be up to our ears in extra work.”

Celestia rolled her eyes and sighed, but she still couldn’t wait for the children to come.

Vice Prinicpal Luna and Twilight were collecting and counting up the donations and earnings. “Wow, we’ve just earned more than a-thousand dollars, only this morning.” said Twilight.

The others were very pleased to hear that.

The sun began to beam down on everyone though.

“Whew, we sure worked hard a lot…
But it really is getting a bit hot.”

Everyone cast a look at Sunset. She was supposed to be the one to fetch a cooler of cool drinks for everyone. “Sorry, it slipped my mind.”

Spike lay on the ground groaning “I feel like a hot dog.”

Twilight shook her head at him, “Sure, Spike… I’m sure doing nothing all day must’ve been exhausting for you.”

The others chuckled softly, but Spike didn’t feel amused.

“Hey… we’re back.” called Sweetie as she and the Crusaders came along with only a few bottles of cider left in their wagons.

“Well, you girls sure have been busy.” said Buddy.

“And look at all this…” DD said as she held up a large jar full of all the money she and the girls had collected.

“Whoa! You made all that just today?” asked Rainbow “Awe-some!”

Twilight took the jar and was very impressed “Great job girls. This will really do well for the charity.”

The girls felt very pleased with themselves, but then noticed Rhymey was gazing at the last few bottles of cider, realizing it was just the thing everyone needed to cool off in the heat.

“Hey, hey, hey… you have to buy it first.” Scootaloo said to him.

Rhymey sighed and put some money in the jar…

“If you say so,
Here you go.”

The girls smiled, and Fluttershy pecked her boyfriend on the cheek.

Even though they forgot to bring a cooler of drinks, they did have empty plastic cups with them.

Sunset was just about to pour the first glass of cider, when suddenly a swarm of Lingos appeared. Many of the civilians and other students screamed and backed away.

“What are they doing here?” snapped Buddy.

“Looking for trouble, that’s what.” said Rainbow.

The Crusaders weren’t too scared, but were outraged and wanted to help teach them a lesson, but the adults held them back. “Stay back, girls.” said Celesto “Let the rangers handle this.”

The girls snuffed and brooded a moment, but their feelings changed to excitement as they watched the rangers make short work of those creeps.

Sunset jumped and split-kick two Lingos hard, knocking them down.

Fluttershy and Rainbow nodded at one another and sprayed several more Lingos with their hoses, which gave Rhymey and Buddy the chance to leapt in and flip them all down.

While the rangers were busy and the others all distracted by watching them fight, Speedra peeked out from around the corner of the school. “Now’s my chance…” she hissed, and she sped over to the table where the cider was, completely unnoticed, and she ever so swiftly threw a dash of the Rage Powder into the open bottle.

She snickered as the powder disappeared into the liquid, and then she zipped away before anyone would see her.

“What was that?” asked Twilight.

“What was what?” asked Applebloom.

Twilight looked around, “I could’ve sworn I saw someone…” she brushed it off.

The Lingos all stood together and lunged for the rangers.

“Okay, altogether!” shouted Sunset, “Go!!” and she and the other rangers give a huge jump kick, knocking all the Lingos down hard, and they vaporized.

“And don’t come back!” thundered Rainbow.

Everyone sighed in relief that the Lingos were gone, but after that fight the rangers were plenty thirsty now. “Who’s up for that cider?” said Buddy.

The rangers practically huddled around.

“Well, we’re going to go out and grab lunch.” Celesto said as he and Celestia headed for their car, “Keep up the good work, everyone. It’s well-appreciated.” Celestia called to everyone as she and her husband left.

No sooner were they gone did everyone else huddle around the table as Sunset poured all cups full of cider. Twilight even gave Spike some in a little travel dish she always brought with her.

“Bottoms up…” said Rainbow, and everyone raised their glasses. Suddenly, a wasp flew in front of Buddy’s face, startling him, causing him to drop his cup and spilling the cider on the ground while everyone else drank.

…and they all suddenly felt rather strange… they’re eyes all flashed red.

Buddy then proceeded to reach and pour himself another glass. “Excuse me…” he said politely to Sunset, but instead of kindly stepping aside, Sunset turned and glared at him sneering “Get out of my face!”

Buddy winced, “Whoa, where did that come from?” he asked, and he accidently bumped into Rhymey “Sorry, man…”

“Shut up,
…Dumb pup!” Rhymey growled.

Before Buddy could question him for that unwanted and unnecessary outburst, all the others began to show rude hostilities towards each other.

“What are you looking at?” sneered Rainbow.

“Nothing!” growled Fluttershy “That’s exactly what you are!”

Spike growled angrily at Twilight as if to attack her.

“Don’t you growl at me, you mutt!” Twilight sneered.

“You can’t talk to him that way!” snapped Cadance.

“Who says you get to decide!” protested Luna.

Even the crusaders were squabbling with one another!

Buddy whistled loudly, and shouted “OKAY, COOL IT!!” Everyone stopped and gawked at him “What’s with all of you? A few minutes ago we were all working fine and now you’re at each other’s throats? What’s wrong with all of you?!”

A moment of silence followed, and then everyone just went right back to bickering and yelling at one another.

Unable to reason with any of them, Buddy decided to excuse himself from the group, but he couldn’t understand this at all.

Suddenly, a monster-- Speedra-- leapt right out from around the school. “It looks to me like your friends aren’t going to be friends much longer, ranger.” she hissed at him.

Buddy’s features hardened, and he called out to the others “Guys…!!”

They all stopped arguing and saw the monster, despite being under a spell; they still felt obligated to fight the creature. “I’ll handle this myself!” said Sunset.

“Hey, who says you get to fight alone?” sneered Rainbow.

Rhymey and Fluttershy said nothing, but turned away from one another in a huff.

Buddy was really getting annoyed with all this, but now wasn’t the time to worry about it. Not while there was a monster to face. “It’s Morphin’ time!” he shouted. The others were ready too…

“STARFLEET MAGIC… POWER ON!!”

“Time to shine!” said Sunset.

“Do you really have to say that all the time!” sneered Fluttershy.

“I got this one…” said Rainbow, and began to charge, but she and Rhymey ran straight into another and fell to the ground.

“What the hey!
You got in my way!” shouted Rhymey.

“It’s your fault, poet boy!”

Buddy clutched his helmet in annoyance. “I guess it’s up to me then.”

“Ha! Catch me if you can!” said Speedra, and she ran in furious fast circles around him. So fast, he could hardly see her at all. He tried to punch and kick at her, but missed every time.

“Too slow!” Speedra called, and she struck him hard knocking him onto his back. “Guys…! I need help!” he called over.

The other rangers looked over form the squabbling and all charged forth.

“Think fast!” shouted Speedra, and she zoomed in a straight line, striking each ranger as she past. Sparks flew everywhere and the rangers all fell over.

Speedra skid to a halt and laughed, “I don’t know what’s more amusing: The fact you can’t catch me, or the fact you’re all too busy squabbling at one another.”

Buddy growled and dashed after her, and tried to jump kick her only for her to zip out of the way, right behind him. He turned to punch her, but she zipped again.

Then she zoomed straight for the other rangers. Each of them tried to land a hit but weren’t successful as she dodged them so swiftly and struck them all back.

“We can’t even get close to hitting her.” whined Fluttershy.

“Well how can we when you’re whining so much?!” growled Sunset.

“You’re one to talk!
You did scream and balk” snarled Rhymey.

“Oh, shut up, all of you!” thundered Rainbow “I’ve had it up to here with all of you already.”

Speedra was most amused. “As much as I’d like to stick around, I have a city to destroy. Time to split!” then she ran off and was gone in less than a split second.

Buddy groaned angrily, and de-morphed.

The others de-morphed as well, but were still squabbling with one another, as were the Principal, Vice Principal, Twilight and Spike, even the crusaders.

Buddy tried and tried to break them all up, but they wouldn’t listen and continued to go at each other’s throats.

With that monster on the loose, and the rangers acting way out of themselves, Buddy realized he would need help, and he contacted Celesto, via his morpher-com. “Mr. Grandruler, we’ve got a huge problem here, I’ll explain it to you at the base.”

“I’ll be there waiting.” Celesto answered, and he signed out.

Buddy then called out to the bickering group. “I’ll be back as soon as I can; you all just… uh… try and calm down, okay?”

The others didn’t take much notice and continued to bicker.

Buddy shrugged, and he headed off for the nearest jump tube.

Once he got to the base, he found Celesto and Celestia were already there. Professor Brain joined them when Buddy showed them all footage from earlier of the rangers and all the others bickering with one another.

“Strange! Most strange…” remarked Brain “Never have I known such good friends to turn the other cheek in such a way.”

“I don’t believe it, I can’t believe it…” said Celestia. Her husband calmed her down, “Take it easy. Remember, the babies.”

Celestia calmed herself as best she could.

“When did all this start?” Celesto asked. “It happened after you left.” replied Buddy “We all had some of the cider, and then all of sudden… all this happened.” This made him suddenly realize “The cider… maybe that’s it.”

He worked at the computer and reversed the images form the past hour, to just when the Lingos came to fight. Everything seemed normal…

“Wait! What was that?” asked Celestia.

Buddy reversed the images again and played it back in super-slow motion. “It’s Speedra! She’s putting some kind of powder in the cider!”

Because Speedra was moving so swiftly, the alarms didn’t go off as she couldn’t be seen, until she stood in one place long enough.

It all made perfect sense now, especially when Buddy remembered that he dropped his cup and didn’t have any of the cider. Had he taken one sip, and he would have been just like the others.

Professor Brain began to electronically scan the bottle of cider, as it stood live still on the table at the school. “I shall concoct an antidote, but it may take a little while.”

Suddenly, the alarms sounded.

Celesto worked at the computer. “That monster’s running amuck in the city.”

The images showed of Speedra rushing through the streets, and breaking through anything that got in her path-- brick walls, lampposts, trees growing through the sidewalks, and the people were all screaming and running away frightened.

The adults gawked at Buddy, but he felt very concerned about this, “I’ll do what I can, but… I really need the others to help me, but I’m not sure they’ll want to.”

“We still can’t just ignore the situation.” said Celestia. “She’s right…” added Celesto “You’ll have to try to keep that monster at bay until the professor can make up the antidote.”

Buddy nodded, and then he was off.

The rangers and the others were still angrily fighting with one another, when Sunset’s morpher-com beeped. “Yeah, what?!” she snarled angrily.

“Sunset…” Celesto said, he kept calmly knowing she and the others were not themselves, and explained this to them “You’ve all been placed under a spell. It’s a trick by Speedra to try and break up your team-spirit.”

The rangers felt a little confused at first, but the spell made it hard for them to believe and they were still mad at each other.

“Listen carefully…” Celesto called to them “That monster is wreaking havoc on the city. Buddy Rose went off to fight her, but he’ll need help. Try to put your differences aside until we can get the antidote to you.”

“Whatever!” sneered Rainbow.

“Let’s go.” said Sunset, and they all ran off, leaving Twilight, Spike and the adults still bickering.

Meanwhile, Speedra jumped right in front of a car that was about to pass through a green light safely, frightening the driver and causing him to veer off and crash softly into a lamppost. The driver wasn’t hurt, but he just like all the people ran of scared.

Speedra laughed at all the chaos she was causing. “This is too easy. I’ll run this city to the ground by the end of the day.”

“No, you won’t!” shouted a voice, and Buddy, already morphed, glared her down “Not if I have anything to do about it.”

“One ranger instead of five…?” Speedra teased “Ooh, I’m so scared, my black blood is racing.”

Buddy was far from amused and looked ready to go.

“And, they’re off!” shouted Speedra, and just like before she ran circles around Buddy. He barely even got a chance to raise his fists as she struck him hard and sent him rolling along the street.

“Okay, I am really getting tired of this.” he groaned.

“Speak for yourself.” sneered Speedra “I’m barely up to speed” and she zoomed forth and bashed into him, knocking him over yet again.

“Care for another lap.”

“No, but we do!” shouted Sunset as she and the others arrived.

“Thank goodness.” said Buddy.

“I got this one.” said Rainbow.

“Who says you get to?” sneered Fluttershy.

“Shut up, both of you!” rhymed Rhymey.

Buddy sagged down and groaned, “Not so good.”

Speedra rather enjoyed seeing the rangers quarreling, “This makes the job so much faster.” She hissed, and then she turned to face Buddy “…Starting with you!”

She then ran more circles round him, and Buddy, again, fruitlessly tried to hit at her again, only to get struck multiple times and he didn’t land a single punch.

“Sorry Ranger, but slow and steady doesn’t win this race!” Speedra mocked to him, and she continued to run more circles around him, but this made Buddy come up with an idea and he got out his whip “Plasma Whip… energize!”

“Plasma Whip… Engage!”

The whip began to glow and spark with strong plasma energy. “Let me take you for a spin!” Buddy shouted, and gripping his whip tightly, he spun round on one foot while cracking the whip hard in a circle, unleashing a wave of power, and sure enough Speedra was hit hard and sent rolling along the street.

“Hey, no fair! You pulled a fast one on me!” she whined, but Buddy stood proud and said “Why outrun something when you can outwit it.”

Just then, Celesto appeared, having arrived through a jump tube with a spray-bottle in hand. “Buddy, catch!” he called as he threw the bottle. “It’s the antidote. Spray it on the rangers; get them to inhale the formula.”

Buddy, having already caught the spray, nodded, and then he leapt over to his bickering teammates. “Okay, guys… time to put you right.” and he gave them all a good spray, and even with their helmets on, they were still able to inhale the formula.

All at once, they snapped back to their senses.

“Whoa, what were we doing?” asked Rainbow.

“I remember… I was really angry.” said Fluttershy

“I was so mad,
Now I feel real bad.” said Rhymey.

Sunset apologized to everyone, and they all made up. Buddy shot Celesto a thumb up, and Celesto smiled proudly before going off to help the others back at school.

Spreedra growled angrily, “You may be back to normal, but you’re going to run me out that easily!”

“Ha!” snarled Sunset “You’re still only one against many. It’s time to shine!”

The rangers all stood together rand called out their names…

Sunset: “Evil’s Dread! Starfleet Red!”

Buddy Rose: “Let’s make the scene. Starfleet Green!”

Rainbow: “We’ll see things through. Starfleet Blue!”

Rhymey: “Though peace and Woe! Starfleet Yellow!”

Fluttershy: “Quick as a Wink! Starfleet Pink!”

All together they stood as Stars Showered around them, “POWER RANGERS… STARFLEET!!”

“Enough already!” shouted Speedra, and she dashed straight at everyone, but she didn’t seem to run as fast as she normally did because her legs were all cramped up from so much use, as well as Buddy lashing her with his whip to slow her down.

This gave the rangers the advantage to punch, kick and knock her about like a ragdoll.

“Guess speed isn’t everything, huh?” said Rainbow “…And I can’t believe I just said that.”

Marla was watching everything on the monitors, and was losing her temper badly. “Well, don’t just stand there!” she thundered at Keto “Do your… growth… spell… thingy!”

“Could you at least learn to say it right?” grumbled Keto, “FORTISSIMO!”

The mugic shot straight to the island, cast its spell on Speedra and grew her really huge! “I’m going to run you rangers to the ground!” she thundered.

The ranger gasped, and then Buddy called to the base this time, “Launch Star-Jets!”

The jets were already on their way, and ready to go.

“Zords Combine!”

“Jet Star Megazord… Ready!”

Speedra scoffed, “I may not be as fast as used to be, but I can still run you through like paper!”

“Bring it on!” snarled Sunset, and the Megazord stomped forth, and began to clash with the monster, fist-to-fist, foot-to-foot.

At first, both sides appeared equally matched.

“Time for some speed-bumps!” shouted Speedra, and she flipped up onto her hands, and thrust her feet forth, booting the Megazord hard in the chest, knocking it to the ground with an earthshaking thud… and rocking the rangers in the cockpit.

Speedra laughed and then shouted, “You’re outta this race, rangers! Time to say goodbye…!”

She stomped on over and raised her foot for the kill.

“Now!” shouted Rainbow, and pulling on the controls, and in a swift flick the Megazord raised its fists socking Speedra hard and sent her crashing along.

“Whoa! Talk about a quick-draw!” groaned Speedra.

“Star Saber, now!” shouted Sunset.

“Star Saber… Engage!”

“Star Slash… Go!”

The Megazord slashed, and Speedra began to flare up, “I’VE RUN OUT OF TIME!!” she shouted, and she exploded, and was imprisoned, then beamed into cockpit as the rangers rejoiced, and sunset declared, “Monster Captured! Mission Complete!”

At Vulcan’s tower, an angry Vulcan stood glaring at a quivering Marla as she back away from him begging for mercy. “Please, master… I… I tried, I really did.”

“Yes, you tried… but you still failed!” thundered Vulcan “Now, I’ll show you REAL RAGE!!”

His hands flared up and he blasted her long pink hair with a roaring flame, burning almost every single thread to ashes, leaving only a few pink threads

Even though her hair would grow back very shortly-- as she was an alien--, naturally, Marla screamed in extreme terror as she gazed at her reflection in a mirror.

Vulcan then turned to face Bronc, Keto, and a whole swarm of Lingos as well as other locked up prisoners, “Let this be a warning to all of you… get those rangers, because next time I won’t be as merciful!!”

His body flared up with his rage, and all the monsters, minions and Lingos trembled in fear.

A little collateral damages to the city, and a few people were hurt, but it was all non-too serious and could had been a lot worse were it not for the Power Rangers.

Speaking of whom, the rangers went back to school to get back to their charity work, and upon arriving they found all their friends were back to normal, thanks to Professor Brain’s formula that neutralized the cider they had all drank.

“When we came to, we remembered everything.” said Twilight “I’m so sorry if I got on anyone’s nerves.”

“As am I…” added Luna.

Everyone felt equally as bad for having acted so harsh that day, but Buddy reminded them “It wasn’t your faults. You were all duped. Even I almost got roped under the spell.”

“Well, thankfully you didn’t…” said Sunset “I can’t even begin to imagine if none of us were in the right frame to fight.”

“Well, at least it’s over and the battle is won.
Now we can get our charities done.” said Rhymey.

Soon, all the rangers and their friends were back to work, and they raised more money at the end of the day, only when they all got a little thirsty, they each decided to get a drink from bottled water they had them.

Somehow, they weren’t really willing to try more cider just yet, but they couldn’t help but share a goofy laugh at their precautions.

Episode 10: the High and the Flighty

Author's Note

Excluding this author's note...

-This ep had over 7500 words, WAY too much, so I widdled it down to a near exceptable length, but it wasn't easy (Had to cut so many parts, but it's the rule)

-Between working on this, Teen Titan Idol (A fan-made commercial for it) Super Pay Cards, and playing Hyrule Warriors... it's very strenuous to balance this all out.

Episode 10: the High and the Flighty

EPISODE TEN

Hawaii, almost twenty-five hundred miles away the U.S Coast…

Molt: A muscular creature with shiny red skin, positivity hot to the touch, and he had the power to absorb forms of heat to create molten lava attacks

Vulcan had sent Molt to Hawaii on a special mission, to gather special energy emitted from the lava within the volcanos all over the islands, and assisting him were Lingos wearing special heatproof suits that Bronc had designed for them.

“Come on, you louses, move it! Keep that energy coming.” shouted Molt as he absorbed more energy for the Lingos to store in special containers to take back with them to Vulcan. “Steady there now. We haven’t got all day!”

Unfortunately, their interference and tampering with the molten craters caused even the most long-dormant volcanos to come to life again, threatening to erupt and destroy all of Hawaii.

The rumbling already made the islands start to shake, and all the people, tourists and locals were falling into a panic, but there was already no time to evacuate everyone as those volcanoes would blow within minutes.

As molt and the Lingos watched the people panic, Molt couldn’t help but laugh, “Run all you like, no one can save you!”

“No one but us you hothead!”

Molt turned and saw the rangers all standing together, having just arrived in their star-jets after receiving the alert.

“You made a big mistake coming here, rangers.” snarled Molt, “I’ll make sure you never leave here alive… GET THEM!!”

The Lingos that were empty handed began to rush the rangers while the others all teleported back to Vulcan’s tower with the energy they had stolen.

“Go guys!” shouted Sunset, and the battle was on, and all at the same time the volcanoes were dangerously close to erupting!

(Que Intro)

The rangers fought valiantly, punching, kicking and knocking all the Lingos out of their way.

“These guys just never learn.” remarked Buddy

“Too bad for them.” added Rainbow “Now for Flame over there!”

Molt scoffed, “Speaking of flames, take this!” and he drew in a huge breath and unleashed a barrage of molten-fireballs, striking the rangers hard and knocking them over.

“What a shot!
That was hot!” groaned Rhymey.

Molt laughed, “Not hot enough, eh? Well, take another blast!” and he unleashed another wave of fireballs. “No!!” shouted Fluttershy as she leapt in front of everyone with her shield ready, “Strong Sheild, show your stuff!” she said as she charged her weapon.

“Strong Shield… Engage!”

Her shield began to glow with a bright pink light.

“Hey, what’s that?” shouted Molt, but he got his answer as his fireballs hit the shield and were actually absorbed and repelled back hard, along with a strong burst of power from the shield itself.

“Alright, it’s time to shine!” hollered Sunset “Bring the weapons together!”

“Weapons Combine!”

“Star Slammer, Ready!”

Molt got up angrily and roared, “The Heat is on!” but then he saw the rangers standing together with their Star Slammer ready “…Or not.”

“STAR SLAMMER… ULTRA STRIKE!!”

The rangers struck Molt hard, “WHOA!! TOO HOT TO HANDLE…!!” Molt shouted, and he exploded and was imprisoned. However, the volcanoes were going crazy as black smoke started to spout from their mouths, and the very islands themselves began t quiver.

“The volcanoes…! They’re going to erupt!” cried Fluttershy.

“The lava will flow for miles insight,
They’ll destroy everything in a fiery might.” said Rhymey.

Back at the base, Twilight was working up all her calculations and trajectories of the area, combining with what information and knowledge she had of geology and volcanic-activity.

“Those mountains are going to blow any second!” cried Spike.

Twilight and Celesto ignored his whining and continued to observe and Twilight finished her computations. “Okay rangers, listen…” Twilight called into the radio “Once you get into your Star-Jets, there are two sections that need to be covered; you need to plug the lava flow from the mouth of the volcanoes, and but you also need to disrupt a series of gas-pockets under the sea. I’m sending you the coordinates!”

Each of the rangers understood the instructions, and called for their jets which were hiding nearby.

Once they beamed inside their cockpits, “Okay, let’s split up…” said Sunset, “Fluttershy and Rhymey, you two take care of the gas-pockets in the water. Buddy and Rainbow, you’re with me, we’ll plug up those volcanoes.”

The rangers all agreed and split up.

Rhymey and Fluttershy headed out to sea and steered their jets into the water-- it was a good thing they were made to do so.

Fluttershy was a little scared at first, especially by the impact, but once the view was clear she gazed in awe at the ocean all around her. “It looks just as beautiful when we last saw it.”

Rhymey, keeping in contact with her agreed,

“I feel the same way too,
But now we have a job to do.”

They split up, steering their jets to their respective destinations.

Meanwhile, the others were hovering near the smoking volcanoes, and using their missiles and lasers, they fired into the mouths of the volcanoes, blasting the rock walls inside and creating massive rock-slides that fell over the lava, blocking the flow.

This did help simmer things down, but not by enough as the pressure was still growing beneath the blockage.

Fortunately, Rhymey and Fluttershy came across flat areas on the seabed, honeycombed with pockets of gases and air flows below the surface that actually fed all the way to the volcanoes.

As instructed, Rhymey and Fluttershy fired their lasers at the grounds, blowing them wide open into fissures-- much like poking a hole through a gas-line-- at once the gases ruptured and blew the water into furious geysers that shot out through the waves of the surface, but nothing too harmful or serious.

With that, the volcanoes stopped erupting. The geysers were still blowing from the sea but would eventually burn themselves out, and nothing bad would happen.

The Hawaiians all rejoiced that their home was saved thanks to the rangers, and the rangers all rejoiced as well for a job well done.

Celesto was very proud of them. “Well done, Rangers; mission complete. Return to base.”

Meanwhile, Vulcan was surprisingly calm despite that Molt had been captured. “This volcanic energy is what we really wanted anyway.” he hissed as he watched the Lingos unload it all into a special generator he had hauled out.

“I don’t get it…” said Marla “What do we want all this energy for anyway?”

Bronc whapped her upside the head,

“Ow!”

“We already explained this… it’s for a special project we’re working on; One that will surely bring the rangers to their knees; correct, master?”

Vulcan nodded in agreement, “Unfortunately, this volcanic-energy, powerful as it is, will not suffice. We require another boost of power from a different kind of energy, and not just any kind; something really big, something extreme…”

He then silently thought, “There’s also something else I can use this energy for. Most likely it won’t be needed, but it’s best to be thorough.”

The minions wondered what he was thinking, but didn’t dare ask, seeing the kind of mood he was in. for now, all they could do was wonder where what other source of energy they needed for their project… and where to get it from.

Meanwhile, the rangers were well on their way back to Mystic Island to bring in their catch and to refuel and prep their jets for the next battle.

“Hey, I’m getting something on radar.” said Buddy “…A whole fleet of ships ahead on the water.”

Everyone else got the same blips on their radars. “Hey, I bet it’s the U.S.N Sentinel.” said Rainbow, “Many of their patrol ships come out in this area every day to watch out for potential threats.”

“She is right,
And soon we’ll be in sight.” said Rhymey.

Fluttershy felt very nervous and whimpered “Maybe… maybe we should alter course. I mean, what if they see us? What if they think we’re enemies?”

The rangers all felt that was a possibility, but their current course was the fastest and shortest possible way to get home, and already having used up plenty of power form their getting to Hawaii and the battle and chaos, they didn’t want use up any more without taking too big a risk.

“Well, they can’t track us with their equipment.” said Sunset “Let’s try and fly a bit higher so they won’t see us themselves.”

Agreeing, the rangers made their jets soar up high…but it was already too late!

Onboard the mother-ship, the commander and his crew had already seen the Star-Jets with specialized telescopes. “What sort of vehicles are those?” the commander asked “I’ve never seen anything like them.”

The men and women tried and tried to lock onto the mysterious vessels, but their best tracking equipment came up blank. “It’s no good, sir…” said the lieutenant “Whatever those craft are they don’t show on radar.”

“Have you managed to make any radio contact with them?”

“None sir… We can’t seem to get onto their frequency.”

The commander was starting to feel a little uneasy about this. He knew Washington hadn’t scheduled any target practice for the fleet, and no government agency he knew of could have possibly designed such unusual craft.

He could only assume the worst! “It must a surprise hostile attack from a foreign country. All hands, level-one battle stations. Arm all warheads!”

The ship alarms sounded as all air-missiles were aimed on their launchers and ready.

The rangers of course were much too far away to see, or hear anything that was going on.

“Fire one and two…!” Two small but powerful armed missiles were launched from the first ship and headed straight for the star-jets…

The rangers’ warning alert sounded. “Missiles!” cried Sunset!

“Look out!” shouted Rainbow!

The missiles got closer, and the rangers swerved out of the way causing them to miss, but those missiles were heart-seekers and chased after the jets.

“Sunset, on your tail!” called Buddy.

Sunset hammered on the controls all she could to shake the menacing missiles, but they kept gaining on her, until she swerved carefully downward, causing the missiles to try and follow, but ended up crashing into each other and exploding.

Everyone felt so relieved, but the danger was far from over.

“Launch missiles three and four!” shouted the commander, and two more missiles were launched.

“Scatter!” shouted Sunset, and the rangers veered their jets away, but the two missiles followed after Fluttershy.

“Help me!” she cried.

While Rhymey dashed to help his girlfriend, Sunset contacted the base to warn them of the attack!

“Can’t you just call them on the radio?” suggested Spike. “That’s impossible, Spike.” said Celesto “Our communications work on an entirely different principle.”

He then ran off to make a very quick emergency phone-call, leaving Twilight to advise the rangers.

It was out of the question for the rangers to return fire to the gunboats, or they’d be really proven to be hostiles to the men and women aboard. “Try using your weapons to blast them!” Twilight suggested.

Heeding her advice, the rangers steered and spun their jets all around to try and get the rockets in sight, while Fluttershy continued to try and dodge them.

Rhymey was closing in, diving straight down from above, and fired his lasers. Kapow! One of the missiles was destroyed, but the second one was still gaining on his girlfriend.

“Guys, heads up! More missiles!” shouted Rainbow. The oncoming rockets forced the rangers to scatter about to avoid being hit, unable to get at the missile chasing Fluttershy.

Sunset saw the missile gaining on her, and it was too close to her now to shoot without the risk of hitting the jet instead, but not wanting Fluttershy to get hit, she did the only thing she thought she could try and rammed straight onward towards the oncoming jet and missile.

“Sunset, what are you doing?!” shouted Buddy.

Rather than answer, Sunset called to Fluttershy “PULL UP!!”

Fluttershy saw Sunset coming straight at her, shrieked, and yanked on her steering gear soaring straight upward, causing the missile to lock onto Sunset’s jet and chase after her.

“SUNSET!!” everyone shouted as the watched the rocket gain on her. She tried her very best to shake it, but it was no good…!

KAPOW!! The missile struck the jet’s back end, and the force of the explosion rocked Sunset hard in the cockpit as her systems began to go haywire “I’ve been hit! I’m losing control!”

The back of her jet was blazing as she began to lose height, but still the rangers were forced to dodge the remaining missiles.

“Twilight, Sunset’s been hit… she’s losing control!” cried Fluttershy.

“We can’t shake off these other rockets.” added Rainbow.

Twilight and Spike had nearly fallen into a state of shock, but Celesto came to them “I’ve just been on the phone to Washington. Let’s hope they can stop this senseless attack!”

The commander was ordering another salvo of rockets to be fired, when the communications console went off.

“Washington, sir… emergency call.” said the lieutenant.

The message was played; “Message to sentinel commander: Stop attack immediately! Unidentified craft are Star-Jet machines belonging to the Power Rangers!”

Everyone was shocked and nearly froze with great fear and shame of their actions, especially the commander. “Quick, stop the launch, and destroy the remaining missiles!”

The remaining two missiles to automatically destroyed, but Sunset’s jet was still blazing in back and she was still losing height.

“Dear god, what have I done!” the commander murmured!

Though the attack ceased, Sunset’s jet was in bad shape. The smoke from the blazes had reached the cockpit, and even with her helmet on, it was getting hard to breathe and see.

“It’s no good, I’m losing control!”

The rangers cried out for assistance from the base, and Celesto called to them, “Sunset, bail out! Rainbow, catch her. The rest of you, use your tractor beams to guide the jet back to base!”

Sunset quickly ejected and was launched from her cockpit in her seat, and her parachute opened.

“Hang on, Sunset!” Rainbow called. Carefully parking her jet in free float, she let Sunset calmly float down. Sunset strapped herself down tightly, “Okay, go!” she called, and Rainbow steered her jet off.

Meanwhile, with no pilot, Sunset’s jet began to take a nose dive to the waters below, but the other rangers fired their tractor beams and steadied the ailing jet, and carefully guided it back to the island.

“Quick, prepare emergency landing pad.” said Celesto.

Right near the island, by the launch bay entrance in the rocky side, a large square pad stretched out from within the rock, and large foam blasters were mounted on it.

The other four Star-Jets were coming in, bringing Sunset’s flaming jet towards the pad, buut suddenly, the tractor beams began to flicker softly.

“Uh-oh…!
Power’s low!” cried Rhymey.

“Easy, guys… Don’t drop it!” shouted Buddy.

“It’s no good, I can’t hold it!” cried Fluttershy, but just as things were getting really bad, Rainbow came in and fired her own tractor beam to help stabilize the jet enough to soften the descend.

The jet then landed on the pad with a loud thud, and the flames began to spread.

“Release foam, all sections!” shouted Celesto.

While all that was going on, the other jets touched town in a clearing near the edge of the island, and Sunset hopped down from Rainbow’s jet and stared sadly through her helmet at the sight of her wrecked Star Jet.

By nightfall, all the worst was over, and the all the jets were safely back inside the hanger.

The others decided to take Sunset out for dinner, feeling it would help her stay strong.

“Are you feeling okay, Sunset?” asked Fluttershy.

“Yeah, I’m fine… just shaken.” replied Sunset “I can’t believe this happened.”

Rainbow crumpled her napkin angrily “Just let me get my hands on the sentinel commander, and to think, I used to dream about being guys like them!”

“Hey, take it easy, Rainbow.” said Buddy “Getting mad at the sentinel isn’t going to help anything.”

Rhymey agreed and said…

“We should be thankful you are alright,
All that happened gave us quite a fright.”

Sunset smiled softly that everyone was showing good care about her, and it was good to know that Celesto and his team were already working to put her jet right again, but the fact still it would require at least a week or two to make repairs. Until then, it would be impossible to form the megazord.

They just hoped they wouldn’t need it anytime soon.

At the base, Celesto had teams working in round-the-clock shifts, day shift and night shift, to repair the jet.

Professor Brain was pained that his lovely creation was attacked so senselessly.

Twilight came in to deliver him his ordered dinner from the galley. “How’s it coming, Professor?” she asked. “Oh, slowly I’m afraid, Twilight.” replied Brain “Even with our current figures and assets, it will still take quite some time.”

While the workers all did their jobs, Celesto and Spike watched from the observation deck above, and Celestia and Luna had joined them, having heard of the crisis.

“Boy, what a mess.” groaned Spike.

“I cannot believe the sentinel would do this!” said Luna. She and the others were all just as outraged as anyone, but getting angry about it wouldn’t help. The most important thing was to fix the jet and fast.

“I’ve just ordered all the new components.” said Celesto “Once they get here, my teams will have to work round the clock to fix things up.”

Spike felt a little shiver run down his spine, “Are you okay, Spike?” Celestia asked. “I’m just worried, that’s all. I mean, what if the people making all that stuff find out about us. They could find out where we’re based.”

“Oh, don’t worry about that, I took careful steps.” said Celesto “Each and every component I’ve ordered from different aircraft corporations around the world. None of them know what they’re building. It’s only when they arrive here that the puzzle unravels.”

“An excellent precaution.” commented Luna.

“Yes…” her brother-in-law said “But I just hope we get it fixed soon. I’d hate to think of what would happen if Vulcan found out about this.”

Everyone feel silently, fearing disaster if that happened! Vulcan would virtually have a free hand if he found out the megazord was inoperative!

Two days had passed, and there hadn’t been any attacks, or sign of alien activity. A good sign to everyone, and it meant the rangers could catch up on their school-work and other chores.

Twilight, being a student as well, couldn’t spend all her time lurking around at the base. She did have her homework and school assignments to work on as well, but in her every spare moment she spent the time working on her new laptop, configuring programs for the megazord.

“How’s it coming, Twilight?” Sunset had to ask.

“Well, some of the new parts have come, but the Star-Jet was damaged deeper than we thought, and more systems need replacing and reconfiguring.” replied Twilight “It could take a little longer than we thought, but we’re doing our best. Let’s just hope the megazord isn’t needed.”

Everyone was very hopeful, but rather uneased at such a thought.

At the tower, Vulcan had locked himself up in his private chamber for days, experimenting with the wads of volcanic energy obtained. He had not come out since, not even to eat… possibly he had a different metabolism so he didn’t require much sustenance like most creatures…

…Regardless, he left strict orders not to be disturbed, not for anything at all, under threat of extreme punishment!

“Ugh! It’s been two solid days!” growled Marla “I’m tired of being cooped up in here.”

Bronc looked from his tinkering and scoffed, “Well complaining about it sure isn’t going to make it any livelier.”

Marla clenched her fists and bolted upright, “That’s it! I’m going to send out a monster.”

“Don’t…!” said Keto as he stepped in front of her “You know Vulcan doesn’t like it when we just send monsters without his consent…”

“Pah…!” grunted Marla shoving him out of the way, “Like he’s even going to notice or care since he’s so wrapped up with whatever he’s doing.”

It was in vain that the boys tried to talk Marla out of it, and neither one of them dared to disturb Vulcan, but both feared and said to each other “…She’s toast.”

Nevertheless, Marla sent a random creature out, not even bothering to look at its credentials and files. She was that bored and wanted to stir some excitement.

The monster she chose was female creature called Airdrea; and she was rather ravishing creature; humanoid, with a human like face, but she had talons for feet, claws at the end of her wings like hands elegant silver wings, but the beauty was only skin deep… as she was just as ruthless as any monster, and do powerful air-attacks.

She demonstrated this by flying over the city…

People too one look at her and screamed and ran, which only amused her. “Time for some aeronautics.” she snickered, and her wings shined and she dived down, soaring past the sides of buildings and power pole, slashing at them with her wings like blades, and causing huge explosion and bits of rubble to go flying about.

Airdrea could only laugh at the destruction she was causing, and Marla applauded the joy, “Now this is what I call stirring up chaos.”

Meanwhile, thought he rangers were in separate classes that period, some were taking a test, others doing regular work, their morphers began to buzz waring them of danger.

One-by-one, each ranger excused themselves from class, though the teachers felt slightly annoyed, and many of the other students jealous that they got to leave, everyone more than understood duty was calling.

Twilight, unfortunately was the only one who couldn’t be excused so simply, and she couldn’t blow her cover and let people know she was in alliance with the rangers, all she could do was with them all luck in her mind.

Soon, the rangers, morphed, were on the scene and in time to find the streets were in such a mess; fallen lampposts, bits of broken debris, blazing cars that were smashed up…

“Oh, my goodness!” cried Fluttershy.

“Just let me get my hands on who did this!” snarled Rainbow.

Suddenly, they heard someone cackling wickedly, and they all turned round to see Airdrea glaring at them. “So, you’re the rangers… you don’t look like much to me.”

“Oh, really…?” sneered Sunset “Then I don’t think you realize what we’re really like.”

Airdrea clenched her fists, “Lingos, attack!”

A swarm of Lingos appeared and lunged for the rangers, and the fight was on.

Four of the rangers trounced the Lingos, while Sunset had smashed her way through the swarm and engaged with Airdrea.

Sunset leapt up high for a jump kick, but Airdrea put her wings out and over her like a shield. Sunset’s feet hit the wings like hitting a solid wall, “Going airborne…” said Airdrea and she flung Sunset up into the air, tumbling backward, but she landed safely on her feet.

The rangers all huddled together. “You okay, Sunset?” asked Buddy. “Don’t worry, I’m fine.” she answered.

“Ha! Not for long you won’t be. None of you will…” Airdrea sneered, and she flapped her wings hard blasting a wave of air at the rangers, that nearly blew off their feet.

“Hey, she’s gone!” cried Rainbow.

They all looked high and low, and suddenly, “LOOK OUT!!” cried Fluttershy, but Airdrea already swooped down and struck them all hard making sparks fly.

Marla jumped for joy, cheering. “This is more fun than an airshow.”

Airdrea halted in midair and zipped back striking the rangers again. “That’ll knock the wind out of you.” she laughed “And soon I’ll knock you out for good along with your entire city!”

She came round for another swoop, but this time Buddy felt ready for her, “Plasma Whip!” and he lassoed the creature by her talons. “Got’cha….Whoa… Hey…!”

He thought he had her, but Airdrea flew so hard that she dragged him along with her, way up high.

“Buddy!” shouted Sunset.

“Trying to get me by the tail, huh?” Airdrea called back to him, and she began to fly and swoop in furious circles and dives to shake him off.

Buddy groaned and fretted of being dropped from such a height, but maintained his grip tightly.

“Maybe we should try and shoot her…” suggested Rainbow, and she got her Sonic Cannon, but Rhymey heled her back saying…

“No, that won’t do.
We may hit Buddy too.”

“What can we do then?” asked Fluttershy.

Airdrea was still swerving and diving vigorously to shake Buddy off of her. “Haven’t you fallen off yet?”

“Not… by… a longshot!” shouted Buddy, and suddenly he found his opening. “You just played right into my trap!”

“Huh…?!”

“What’s he talking about?” wondered Marla.

“I let you drag me around like this to tire yourself out, so you wouldn’t be prepared for this; charge it up!”

“Plasma Whip… Engage!”

With his whip fully charged, he let her have it, and sent a wave of shocking energy along the line. Airdrea screamed and roared as the shocks jolted her, making sparks fly, and Buddy released his whip from her grip, skillfully swung onto a hanging flagpole and landed safely on the ground, while the monster crashed hard onto the road.

The rangers huddled together. “Great job, Buddy.” said Sunset. Buddy nodded and said “She’s swift, but she’s not swift-witted.”

Airdrea angrily got up growling, “It’ll take more than that to clip my wings.”

“And much more is what you’re going to get, rangers!” Marla called out, and she called to the tower for Keto to do his thing.

“…FORTISSIMO!!”

In almost no time at all, Aridrea was grown huge! “Talk about your wingspan!” she remarked.

At the base, Celesto saw this on the monitors “I was afraid this would happen.”

He contacted the rangers and told them, “Rangers, Sunset’s Star-Jet is still out of action. We can send the other four jets, but, as you know, you won’t be able to form the megazord.”

The rangers were deeply concerned, but knowing they couldn’t just sit and do nothing while that monster threatened their city. “Send them…” said Sunset “We’ll have to make do with what we’ve got.”

“Right…” said Celesto, and then he called to the staff “Launch the four star jets!”

Soon the four jets were on their way, and the four rangers beamed aboard leaving Sunset behind. “Go get her, guys.” she called to them.

Airdrea flew up, up, up over the city to confront the jets and laughed at them, “So you wanna take to the sky, huh? No problem!”

“You got nothing on us, Airdrea!” sneered Rainbow.

Rhymey did the calculations on his onboard computer…

“We will have to weaken her very much,
Then our tractor beams can beat her with one touch.”

“That won’t be easy without the megazord.” added Fluttershy.

“Well then… here goes something.” said Buddy.

The jets rushed forth and fired their lasers. “Oh, yeah!” shouted Airdrea, and put up her wing-defense again. The lasers hardly even scratched her much.

“Try our missiles then!” shouted Rainbow, and she fired a barrage at her, but Airdrea skillfully swerved and dodged each one causing the missiles to fly harmlessly off the island and into the sea. “Not good enough.” she teased and she soared right at the jets, striking them hard with her solid wings.

Each of the rangers were rocked about in their cockpits nearly losing control of their jets, much to Sunset’s horror and Marla’s delight.

“Direct hit…!” Marla cheered.

“This isn’t working.” Sunset called to Celesto at the base, “The jets aren’t strong enough alone. We need more power… a resource… anything!”

Celesto angrily pounded the console in frustration. “I can’t believe this!” he grumbled “Right now I could just get my hands on the commander of the sentinel and…”

At that moment, Sunset snapped onto an idea “That’s it… The Sentinel! They put us out of action; they can put us back into action!”

“Of course!” said Celesto, “It’s a longshot, but it may work.” and he quickly whipped out his cell-phone to make another call to Washington.

Meanwhile, the rangers continued to chase after Airdrea, and fired their weapons at her again, but her defenses stood strong and she continued to dodge moves as well, and then struck back with all her might.

Rainbow’s jet tumbled and soared about, heading straight for a high-rise.

“Rainbow, Pull up!” shouted Buddy!

Rainbow pulled and pulled on her steering gear with all her might, and narrowly managed to soar straight up avoiding the building. “Whoa, that was way too close!” she cried as she look back at what could have been a huge accident.

Suddenly, Airdrea popped up on top of her hood cover, frightening her. “I see you… I dee you in trouble!” and she literally grabbed the jet and whirled it round, and around and flung it off towards the others.

“Look out!” cried Fluttershy, and every scattered about just in time to miss. “You okay, Rainbow?” Buddy called. Poor Rainbow felt nauseous and nearly vomited inside her helmet, “…Did we win yet?” was all she could respond with.

She shook herself back to normal. “How can we take down this feather duster?”

Suddenly, Celesto called to them all over the radio, “Rangers… we have a plan. It’s a longshot, but it just may work.”

He told them all to lead the monster out to sea to precise coordinates, and the sentinel would be sure to meet them there.

“What?!” snapped Buddy “You expect us to trust those marine morons after they nearly shot Sunset down?!”

The other ranger concurred, and each slandered at the Sentinel, but Sunset spoke severely to them. “Look, the whole thing was My idea… and this just may be our only hope to catch this flying freak. So grow a back bone and just do it!”

The others had never heard her spoken that severely before, but Celesto actually smiled, and held in a chuckle thinking he couldn’t have said it better himself.

The rangers were still rather hesitant, but seeing no other way in their current status.

“If you’re sure about this,
What have we got to miss?” said Rhymey.

“Let’s go…!” Rainbow hollered, and the star just headed straight out to sea.

“Huh? Where are they going?” sneered Marla “We were just about to destroy them, too!”

The monster was furious! “No one runs away from Airdrea. Winged mistress of the skies! The only you leave is when you are destroyed!”

She spread out her wings and followed the rangers off the island. “Hey! What about me?” Marla called, but she was already left on her own. “Fine…! I guess I’ll just have to watch things from the tower.”

Then she teleported and was gone.

As for Sunset, feeling there was really nothing more she could do, decided to head back to the base to observe things from there, but she really wished she was with her friends!

The rangers flew far, far out to see, leaving the island and the United States coastline far beneath to horizon.

“Okay, we’ve reached the spot.” Buddy said into the radio “Where’s the Sentinel?”

“They’re on their way.” replied Celesto “They’ll be with you in a bit. Meantime, try to stall the monster until they arrive.”

Rainbow groaned, “Can’t we ever get an easy break?!”

Airdrea swooped past her and the other jets, and then turned to face the rangers. “So you lead me all the way out here… to be destroyed at sea? Rather a low way to go, but fine by me… as long as you’re out of the picture for good!”

The rangers steered their jest forth, firing their lasers and missiles, but Airdrea continued to evade and block every attack, and strike the jets hard.

“We can’t keep this up forever!” cried Fluttershy “Our jets will take too much damage!”

The rangers knew that would be a disaster that couldn’t bear consideration. Having one Star Jet busted was bad enough, but all of them…!

Airdrea laughed at the rangers, “I honestly can’t tell what would be sweeter; sinking you into the sea, or blowing out of the sky with a bang!”

Suddenly, she heard a loud bang coming from far away. She turned round just in time as a blast hit her hard.

“Hey look!” cried Fluttershy. The rangers all looked out, “It’s the Sentinel…!” said Buddy.

The three gunships were far down but not too far from them.

“Direct hit, sir!” said the lieutenant to the commander.

“Right…” said the commander “Keep the creature in our sights, but don’t hit the jets no matter what.”

He wasn’t pretending to be professional, he meant every word. Ever since he regretted his previous actions, and he would face hearings back at headquarters, he wished for a way to make things right. Thank goodness he was given the chance.

“Prepare all guns!” he ordered, and all his gunmen took up their positions using huge armed cannons on the ships’ decks. No missiles would be fired, not wanting them the chase the jets.

“What is this!” shouted Airdrea.

“Your worst nightmare,
And it’s right there!” said Rhymey, and quickly he and the others veered their jets away safely.

“Attack…!” shouted the commander and his me fired their guns.

Airdrea was forced to swerve and dodge swifter than ever, as well as put up her wing shield. “You lousy Earthmen!” she shouted “I’ll sink your precious ships to the bottom of the deep!”

With that, she lunged down towards the commander’s boat.

“Incoming!” hollered the commander, but just as Airdrea was about to strike, Rainbow came soaring in and rammed her jet clear into the creature knocking her far out!

“Get her guys!” Rainbow hollered.

Rhymey and Fluttershy’s jets burst from out of the sea, and gave her a surprise attack from underneath; firing their lasers at her, and she didn’t have time to raise her defense or swerve.

“You’ll pay for that!” she hollered.

“I think not!” said Buddy “Fire Missiles!”

He fired, but this time Airdrea was ready and put up her wing defense, and didn’t get hurt by the missiles on impact! “Ha! Your little fireworks didn’t work!” she scoffed, but she was suddenly rammed by Buddy’s jet… which was his real plan all along.

“Look out below…” he called, as everyone watched Airdrea fall towards the sea.

“Open fire!” shouted the commander on the ship, and his gunmen fired an endless barrage of shots. Not a single hit missed and Airdrea was practically being held up in midair by the shelling.

“I think I’m getting airsick!” she screamed.

The rangers saw this as their change. “Everyone, charge your tractor beams.” Buddy called to them.

They all did as told and fired their beams at the creature. The tractor-beam succeeded in shrinking her down, imprisoning her in a sphere, and Buddy hauled it into his cockpit.

“It worked!” he cried. Everyone cheered for joy, even the men and women on the ship, and the commander felt very relieved, and pleased to have helped the rangers.

“All together guys…” Buddy called to his comrades.

The other all nodded, and altogether they declared, “MONSTER CAPTURED! MISSION COMPLETE!”

Back at the tower, Marla couldn’t believe her eyes. “What… just… happened?!” she squealed.

“Um… I’d say the rangers just won again.” grumbled Keto.

Marla threw such a hissy fit, many of the Lingos walked away covering their ears.

“Ha! You ought to save your whining for when Vulcan hears about this.” said Bronc.

However, much to everyone’s surprise, Vulcan was still locked up in his private lab. Surely he would have come out in a fiery wrath to reprimand Marla, but it was all silent and still as he knew nothing of what was going on.

“If either of you tell him of this, I’ll give you guys such a nag you won’t know what hit you!” she threatened Bronc and Keto.

The guys shuddered at such a thought.

While inside Vulcan’s lab, the true reason he couldn’t hear anything was because… he was almost completely unconscious. He practically looked as if he tried to fight an army single handed, and lay on the floor weary and shaking softly.

Either it was because he was so-overworked, or the other fact being the large blood stain on his right arm, as if he had given his own blood to something… something relating to his special secret project.

“Must… work… creation!” he groaned “Preserve…Must… be cautions!”

The rangers finally made it back to base with their capture, and Sunset gave them a warm welcome, and they all joined in a group hug.

“That was incredible!” cried Sunset.

“The fact that we beat the monster without using the megazord… it was AWE-SOME!” said Rainbow.

“Well, we wouldn’t have done it without the commander’s help.” Fluttershy reminded everyone, and they all remembered…

Leaving their jets on free-float to leave them and thank the commander in person for helping them, even shaking his hand.

“I just hope you can all forgive me for my previous actions. I only wish there was more I could do to make it up to you.”

“Well, thankfully it wasn’t worse.” Buddy said “I guess this is our way of saying let bygones be bygones.”

“Well, thank you, Power Rangers, just the same.”

Celesto approached the group and cleared his throat, “Sorry to break up this rather touching moment, but shouldn’t all of you be getting back to school?”

The rangers’ features twisted into sour faces, and they groaned softly.

Nevertheless, they found themselves back in school, and having missed three periods that day, they were forced to stay an hour after school to complete their tests and missed assignments, plus an extra thirty minutes for running into Cadance and Luna earlier…

…To which the ladies found amusing, “Think we’re being too harsh on them?” Cadance asked, but her aunt shook her head, “Despite being close to us, we can’t always pamper and spoil them.”

The ladies snickered, but the rangers all had to groan again.

Episode 11: Pandoria's Box

EPISODE ELEVEN

One night in town, a jewelry store had been broken into by five thugs dressed in black. The alarms had already sounded and the police were just arriving on the scene, but too late, as the thugs had already fled, making off with bags of stolen jewelry worth a small fortune.

The thugs had retreated to a rooftop where the police wouldn’t find them, and just as they were about to count up all their stolen goods, they heard someone drop down on the rooftop.

“Who’s there?” one of the thugs called. He and his teammates turned, and saw a lone figure staring them down through the darkness; a young man with brown spikey hair, wearing a white T-shirt and a black jacket with matching black pants.

“You punks have a lot of nerve breaking into that store like that.” he sneered at them.

“And you got a lot of nerve following us up here…” growled the leader, and he and his team got out their guns and began to shoot at him, but the dude back-flipped several times out of the way, leaping over a large air conditioning unit.

“Let’s get him!” shouted the leader, and he and his team ran round each side of the unit hoping to surprise the stranger, only to leap round the bends and find he wasn’t there.

“Where are you, you little creep!” shouted the leader. That was when the stranger leapt down from the top of unit where had been really hiding where the others didn’t seen him go to, and he kicked all their guns right out of their hands.

The outraged thieves decided to settle this the old fashioned way and ganged up on the stranger for a brawl, but the stranger proved to be very cunning and swift.

One thief lunged at him, and he swerved and flipped the thief on his back.

Two more tried to charge him from either side, but the stranger back flipped out of the way causing the thieves to bump head-first into one another, knocking them out cold.

One of the other thieves tried to run off with the stolen loot, but the stranger did a huge high-jump kick, pinning the thief down.

Only the leader was left, but he no longer had the courage feeling this guy was too tough. “Do you give up yet?” the stranger asked. Feeling defeated, the thief raised his hands up high begging not to be hurt.

Suddenly, the police burst in onto the roof, having heard the gunshots, and apprehended all the thieves.

As for the stranger, he had crept away, not wanting to be confused for one of the thieves, skillfully leaping along the building rooftops to the end of the block.

This young man was Lightning Dawn, War and History teacher from Crystal Prep Academy, Adventurer and Explorer-- he was the actual human being of Commander Lightning Dawn, not the pony himself.

He safely made it to the streets below where his motorbike was parked, and he heard someone call out to him. “Psst… Lightning… up here.”

He looked up, and saw a red-breasted robin sitting on the lamppost… his lifelong friend and faithful sidekick and companion, Krysta!

She fluttered down and landed on the handlebars of the bike. “You’re bad, you know that?” she teased him.

Lightning chuckled, “What’s so bad about having a bird that got doused in magic sparkles that lets her speak? Oh, I get it, the fact that she is the perfect spy that no one could ever suspect and reports when trouble is near.

Heh! It’s great to be home again.”

He meant that well. He and Krysta had only just recently returned from another of their little ventures off the island, but that was beside the point.

Then he put on his helmet and goggles, and revved up his bike. He took off down the streets with Krysta following him, as Lightning’s hero song played… followed by flashes of all he had been up to while he was away…

-Thwarting robberies.
-Helping the oppressed.
-Busting smuggling operations… and all that stuff.

(Que Intro)

Keto was looking through an old weapons closet within the tower, where most of the weapons had been confiscated from the prisoners. Lots of it was basically just spears, swords, guns…

“Look at this junk.” Keto grumbled to himself “No one could beat the rangers with this stuff.”

Suddenly, he came upon a small black box with a white skull on it, “Hey, this looks familiar.”

He took hold of the small box and opened up the lid. All at once bright lights and chaos flashed all about. Keto quickly slammed the box shut! He looked all ruffled and beaten up from the chaos “Now I remember what this is…!” he groaned.

“That is my box…” hissed a voice. Keto turned and saw a rather attractive but wicked humanoid creature, dressed like a Roman Goddess, but all in black, and she wore a wreath of white skulls in her hair instead of flowers.

Bronc, Marla, and even Vulcan heard the noise and rushed into the chamber. “What’s going on here?” Vulcan demanded to know, “Who are you?”

The stranger gazed sinisterly at him, “I am Pandoria… keeper of chaos. I had been sealed inside that box for centuries when I was conquered by Starfleet, but have since learned new tricks. Give me a chance… I may be able to help.”

Marla took the whole thing as a joke and laughed hysterically “You think you can crush the rangers? That’s rich! That’s dandy.”

“…That’s brilliant.” said Vulcan.

The minions all gazed at him, “Master…? You approve of this?” asked Bronc.

Vulcan nodded, “I, too, have heard tales of the wicked witch, Pandoria and her mystic box. It has the power to trap those around her into an alternate dimension of living chaos and nightmares beyond imagination, and eventually those who are trapped inside for too long will cease to exist!”

Pandoria nodded, and demonstrated by opening her box and sucking in several Lingos, entrapping them inside the chaos realm within before snapping the box shut.

Marla’s hair got blown about in the winds and she groaned and whined, while the others were all very impressed. Vulcan snickered wickedly. “The rangers will never escape this one.”

The rangers were all busy that day with their own activities.

Rainbow Dash had soccer practice. Buddy Rose was working in the school garden, Rhymey was volunteering at the library and reading stories to children… all in rhyme of course.

Sunset was at the base, helping to go over inventory and study up on the monsters they had all faced up to now, to be better prepared for other situations in the near future.

“I wonder how many more of these baddies Vulcan will send after us?” she wondered aloud.

“Well, however many there are, we’ve got to be ready for them.” said Celesto “Just the same, I’m glad you’re here, what with Twilight taking Spike to the vet today.”

Sunset giggled, “I wonder how it’s going for them?” but she could picture it all now…

…Just as she thought, Spike was putting up a fuss, as Twilight dragged him along on his leash to the vet’s office. “Come on, Spike…!” growled Twilight as she pulled with all her might.

“No way…!” Spike protested “You know I hate going to the vet!”

“Will you stop talking! People could hear you!” sneered Twilight, and she finally managed to scoop him up in her arms, “Besides, Fluttershy’s going to be giving you your checkup this time. It’s part of her work-study.”

Once Spike heard that, he calmed down a bit. He trusted Fluttershy more than he did most people.

Twilight felt so relieved that he finally calmed down…

But deep within the city, things were not about to be calm.

Many people were going about, minding their own business, when Pandoria stood on a shop rooftop, snickering as she gazed down at all the people. “And the story goes that her curiosity ate away at her soul… and she opened the box!”

With that, she opened her little box, and sucked all the people in in a bright vortex, until the street was empty. She then snapped the box shut, and laughed softly, “If this doesn’t get the rangers’ attention, nothing will!”

At the animal shelter and vet-clinic, Fluttershy was finishing up Spike’s checkup while being supervised by the actual vet, whom strongly resembled the vet from the pony world.

“Oh, my…” said Fluttershy “Your heartbeat sure is fast… just as I thought…”

Spike looked a little worried, but Fluttershy softly touched his nose with her finger, “…It’s because you’re a dog.”

Spike let out a happy little bark and licked her finger in thanks. “Aw, who’s a healthy little guy? That’s right… you are. You are…”

She hugged the dog warmly and he licked her cheek casually, but Spike was very careful not to speak, especially in front of the real vet.

“That was excellent, Fluttershy. We’ll make a vet of you yet.” she said to her assistant. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say you two could actually communicate with one another.”

Spike and the girls felt awkward she said that, not knowing how right she was.

Still, that was Fluttershy’s last job for her work period that day, and she was dismissed by her supervisor.

“Thanks again, Fluttershy.” Twilight said as they stepped out of the exam room “You don’t know how much trouble Spike was giving me.”

Spike growled softly, and wanted to protest, but there were too many people in the waiting room. In the next area, was a small pet store with merchandise for animals-- toys, beds, foods, everything.

There, standing in line was a familiar person all three of them recognized.

“Lightning…?” said Twilight.

He turned and saw his former student and Fluttershy with Spike, “Long time no see.”

He was just there getting some birdseed for Krysta, her favorite brand.

All four of them walked out together. “So, where is Krysta anyway?” Spike whispered, not wanting other people to hear him. “Oh, she’s out doing her patrol.” replied Lightning “Hardly anything gets past us that easily, but ever since I got back I’ve hearing stories that this island has been under attack by monsters.”

Fluttershy and Twilight felt maybe about telling him the truth about the Power Rangers and stuff, but then he turned and smiled at Fluttershy, “I’m sure you and the other rangers do us well.”

“You know?” she asked.

“Of course… I have eyes haven’t I, and I read the papers. Also, after what I experienced before… ” he referred to everything from Starfleet events, including meeting the other Lightning Dawn from the other world “…Very few things surprise me now.”

The truth was, he still found it so fascinating… all this Starfleet, magic, villains and stuff, and meeting the other Lightning Dawn.

Twilight felt the same way when she first discovered it, and was astonished to hear of the pony princess that resembled her in the other dimension… but that she was dead, and thus, they could never meet.

“We’re about to get some lunch, if you want to come with us.” said Fluttershy.

“Uh… no… no thanks, I’m pretty busy, but thanks for the offer. I better go.”

Then he just walked off much to the girls and Spike’s confusion. “Well that was sure weird of him.” said Spike.

“Spike, keep it down! People may hear you.” said Twilight.

“Um… what people?” asked Fluttershy, and she motioned around… there weren’t any people around… not one, but just twenty minutes ago when Twilight was taking Spike to the vet, the whole street was bustling about.

Suddenly, they heard something like a can being kicked, which made them all jump and turn round, but it was only Rhymey.

“Whoa, easy, see.
It’s only me.”

The trio were relieved, and Rhymey explained…

“I finished my job early, but then I thought I heard someone call.
But when I dashed outside, no one was there; no one at all.”

Then he noticed the streets were all practically empty here as well. He and the others got that weird feeling something strange was going on.

Their morphers suddenly beeped, as Celesto called them from the base. Fluttershy answered the call, “What’s going on?” she asked.

“People are disappearing all over the city.” Celesto answered “We’ve just detected signs of alien activity heading for Canterlot High. I’ve already notified Buddy and Rainbow, and Sunset is on her way there.”

Realizing the potential danger at hand, Rhymey and Fluttershy decided to head off, while Twilight and Spike would head back to the base.

They all found a jump-tube hidden in a wall around the corner from where they were and jumped in. Twilight and Spike headed down a different path that would take them to the base, while Rhymey and Fluttershy kept going their way, and ended up at the front of the school.

They found the others there waiting for them in the school yard.

“So where’s the trouble…?” asked Rainbow.

“I’ll tell you where it is…” shouted a voice. The rangers looked up and saw a sinister looking creature standing on the roof of the school. Sunset’s eyes nearly popped out of her head “It can’t be…!” she muttered.

The others turned to face her, “You know that creep up there?” asked Rainbow.

Pandoria snickered, “There is not a creature from my world who hasn’t heard of The Great Pandoria.”

“I read about her during my times in Equestria of old…” said Sunset “But I always thought she was just a myth.”

“Well, myth or not… let’s all get real serious.” suggested Buddy. The other three rangers agreed, but Sunset tried to warn them, “Wait… guys! I need to tell you!”

“Why tell when you can show…” shouted Pandoria, and she opened her box.

“Look out!” Sunset shouted as she tackled everyone out of the way just in time as the chaotic vortex want right past them all!

The lights, the screams, the horrors, all the rangers went numb with fear. Pandoria found it amusing “A mere small sample of what’s in store for all of you!”

“That’s what I was afraid of…” said Sunset and she cautioned the others “Whatever happens, don’t get his by that vortex, or you’ll get sucked into that box!”

“Geez… thanks for the heads up.” said Rainbow.

The rangers all stood up. “It’s Morphin’ time!” shouted Sunset.

“STARFLEET MAGIC… POWER ON!!”

They all stood together and did their role call…

Sunset: “Evil’s Dread! Starfleet Red!”

Buddy Rose: “Let’s make the scene. Starfleet Green!”

Rainbow: “We’ll see things through. Starfleet Blue!”

Rhymey: “Though peace and Woe! Starfleet Yellow!”

Fluttershy: “Quick as a Wink! Starfleet Pink!”

“…POWER RANGERS… STARFLEET!!”

Pandoria hissed at the rangers, “That’s interesting, but I’m far from impressed, but you’ll this impressive!” she opened up the box and unleashed a wave of dark magic, striking the rangers hard and making sparks and explosions fly.

“Now for take two!” laughed Pandoria, and she opened the box again, unleashing three dark ghastly spectres to attack the rangers.

Fluttershy couldn’t help but scream like a girl in a horror movie at the sight of such creatures.

“Let’s takes these creeps!” snapped Buddy.

“Get ‘em!” shouted Sunset.

Unfortunately for the rangers, their punches, kicks… all passed right through the spectres like fresh air, yet the spectres were able to make contact, striking them all hard and knocking them over.

“It’s no use, rangers…” Pandoria called to them “They can touch you, but you can’t touch them!”

The three spectres laughed wickedly as they flew in rings round the rangers and gave them all a huge shove, knocking Sunset one way, and the others altogether another.

Pandoria then called back the spectres, “Now, let’s try this again…” and she reopened the box.

“Guys, look out!” cried Sunset, but her friends were already ensnared by the vortex and sucked into the box! “…No!!”

Pandoria snapped the box shut, “Four down and one to go. You may as well give it up, Red Ranger. It’s easier that way just to accept and get it over with.”

The rangers found themselves in a swirling realm of light and colors, enough to make someone sick from looking at it too long.

“Where are we? I don’t like it here!” whimpered Fluttershy.

“It’ll be alright,
Just hang on tight.” said Rhymey.

Buddy tried to contact Sunset or the base, “No good. Communication’s blocked out.

Rainbow looked on ahead, “Hey, it’s all the missing people we were told of.”

So many people from the city were all whimpering and fretting as they spun round in the frightful realm.

“We’ve got to get them out of here, but how.” wondered Buddy.

Fluttershy looked up, and saw a single black rectangular shaped spot up high, figuring it was the lid of the box. “We’ve got to try and open it!”

Rainbow got out her Sonic Cannon, “Step back… Fire in the hole!” and she fired a big shot at the lid, but it didn’t even scratch the surface.

“It’s no good, Rainbow.” said Buddy “I don’t think we can get out of here unless we’re let out!”

This was not good, not for them or anyone trapped inside!

“Let my friends go… and the town’s people!” demanded Sunset. Pandoria scoffed at her, “You’re hardly in a position to be making demands, but the perfect spot for me to take you!”

She opened the box to take her in again, but Sunset leapt up high, back-flipping into a tree.

“Running away won’t save you!” shouted Pandoria, and she leapt down to the tree and opened her box to suck in everything she could, but all she got was a squirrel and bird’s nest, but no ranger.

“I’ll find you somewhere!” Pandoria called out “No one escapes the wrath of Pandoria’s box!”

Little didn’t she realize that she was being watched from above by a robin, none other than Krysta, “I’ve got to tell Lightning about this!” and off she flew.

Sunset had retreated to the base to talk it over with the others and make up a plan. She sat at the table with her helmet off, and she was really beating herself up. “She caught all my friends, and all I could do was run away!”

Celesto placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, “You did what you had to. You wouldn’t have been able to help the others if you got absorbed too.”

Sunset didn’t feel any better thought, what was really bothering her was the world inside the box. “I remember when I read about that myth… the dimension only exists for a short while. When it vanishes, everyone who’s trapped inside it will be gone forever!”

Everyone rolled their eyes between one another in deep concern.

“We’ve got to get them out of there!” cried Spike, but Sunset shook her head, “I don’t know how. I only know as much as I’ve just told you. That’s all there was in Equestrian myths and tales. Only Starfleet would know the answers to this.”

Then it dawned on her instantly. “Twilight, give me the message book.”

“Right… here.” Twilight replied giving her the book and a pen, and Sunset quickly wrote a message to Lightning Dawn of Starfleet, hoping he would quickly be able to give her the information needed.

“Come on, come on! Please answer!” cried Sunset. She really wanted that info before it was too late.

Meanwhile, Pandoria stood on a high building roof stroking her box. “If the Red Ranger won’t come willingly, I’ll have to force her out into the open, and create a little chaos while I’m at it.”

She snickered wickedly as she opened her box and unleashed several spectres out amongst the town, scaring the townspeople and causing damage and destruction to properties.

Pandoria even saw the chance to absorb more people into the box.

Inside the chaos realm, more and more people were coming in by the truckload.

The rangers tried desperately to escape through the lid while the box was open, but the suction only made everything come in like being caught in a wind-tunnel!

Their every attempt only ended them up falling back in again.

“It’s no good, we can’t bust out that way either.” said Buddy.

Rhymey rubbed the visor of his helmet with his hands, and then he gasped…

“My hands, they’re fading…”

He then noticed everyone’s hands were fading, as well as their bodies…

“…Our whole bodies are degrading!”

“He’s right!” cried Rainbow “I guess the longer we stay in here, the more we fade.”

“We’re going to disappear…!” cried Fluttershy “…Forever!”

All the other people were starting to fade too. The only hope they and the rangers had now was Sunset.

Fortunately for Sunset and the others, Commander Lightning received the message and wrote back with what information he could supply.

“You’re sure about this?” asked Twilight.

“That’s what it says…” replied Sunset, and she requote the message “Starfleet discovered that Pandoria’s box only responds to whoever is holding it, and it was how they were able to release all the current captives, and imprison Pandoria. We don’t know why didn’t vanish.

All I can suggest is that you get the box, and once you release all the captives, destroy it before it causes anymore damage.”

Sunset snapped the book shut and passed it back to Twilight. “It’s the only choice I have to get the others free, but it’s not going to be easy.”

The alarm sounded…

Celesto typed at the computer and viewed images of all the chaos and terrors happening in the city, and in the center of it all was Pandoria.

Sunset knew she had to go out there.

“Be very careful. Don’t let that monster absorb you.” said Celesto.

Sunset nodded, and grabbed her helmet, “It’s time to shine!”

She was on the scene in almost no time and emerged in an empty area. All the people were gone.

“You wanted me, Pandoria. Well here I am!”

Pandoria laughed, and sunset turned to see her standing up the road. “So glad to see you’ve come to your senses, ranger. Soon, the dimension in my box will vanish, and your friends and the townspeople with it.

If you hurry, you can spend a few last moments with them before you cease to exist!”

Sunset only whipped out her Star Scepter, “I can take you on, and I will get my friends back.”

Pandoria sighed, “I tried to make it easy for you. Get her Lingos!”

A huge swarm of Lingos rose up and surrounded Sunset, charging her all at once.

Sunset put up the best effort that she could, knocking a few Lingos down and blasting others with her scepter, but she was still badly out number by the huge swarm.

“Yes, that’s it…” hissed Pandoria, and she stepped in closer to absorb Sunset, not caring if she got the Lingos too, since they were expendable things.

Just as she was about to open the box, Lightning Dawn the human, leapt in… right over Pandoria, surprising her, and gave Lightning the opening to kick the box hard out of her hands, and it bounced on the road.

“Lightning!” cried Sunset, and she kicked a couple of more Lingos out of the way.

Lightning glared angrily at Pandoria and said “I’ll be taking that!” and he rushed ahead to snatch the box, “Stop him!” shouted Pandoria!

Some of the Lingos ambushed Lightning to stall him.

“Look out!” Sunset cried.

Lightning then demonstrated his own fighting abilities, showing he was just as skilled as Sunset was. “You don’t travel round the world… and fight off thugs like I have… without learning a thing or two.” he stated as he punched, kicked and flipped the villains down.

Sunset was now able to get her edge without so many Lingos fighting her at once. She finally managed to break free and went for the box.

“Oh, no you don’t!” shouted Pandoria as she tackled her down.

“Hey!” cried Lightning.

“Just get the box!” Sunset called to him.

Lightning nodded and rushed for it. He managed to grab it, “I got it!” but he then got tackled by two Lingos causing him to lose it.

Another Lingo tried to grab it, but Sunset came in and kicked the creep out of the way and took the box back, “It’s mine!”

“Think again!” snarled Pandoria as she approached Sunset and brawled with her, punching and waving her robes causing Sunset to drop the box and Pandoria ultimately caught it.

“And now…!” she shouted, but before she could finish, Krysta came swooping in and snatched the box handle in her talons.

“Hey!” shouted Pandoria.

“Krysta!” shouted Lightning.

“Catch!” Krysta called as she dropped the box to Lightning, and he caught it.

Sunset came to his side and took the box. “Way to go guys! Now, let’s get everyone out of there…!”

“No… wait!!” cried Pandoria, but Sunset had already opened the box wide, unleashed a super powerful reserve-vortex, releasing all the people back into the city… and the rangers landed right in the street near Sunset and Lightning.

“Hey, we’re free!” cried Buddy.

Rainbow wiped the top of her helmet, “Whew… not a moment too soon.”

Fluttershy and Rhymey looked at their hands and bodies and saw they were perfectly solid, and they never felt so relieved.

Sunset then threw the box way up high, and blasted it to bits with her scepter. “That takes care of that.”

Pandoria was completely outrage, “I’ll make you pay for that, you rotten ranger! I’ll make you all pay.”

At the tower, Keto saw she would need a little boost. “FORTISSIMO!!” and he launched his mugic…

…Causing Pandoria to grow large! “Now this is thinking outside of the box.” she remarked.

The rangers all grunted, and Sunset told Lightning and Krysta, “You guys get somewhere safe. We’ll handle this.”

Lightning and Krysta were so shocked by how the monster just grew so large, they almost didn’t hear her, but they complied and ran off, and then Sunset tapped her morpher badge “Jet-Star Megazord!”

The jets were already launched, combined and the Megazord stood ready as the rangers beamed into the cockpit.

“Ready guys…?”

“Let’s do it!” the other all said.

Pandoria scoffed, “Even without my box, I am still the mistress of chaos!”

She raised her arms up high unleashing a wave of darkness that covered the skies making it dark as night, with eerie lightning and thunder, and spook-like sounds.

“Oh, no…! Not more of this!” cried Fluttershy.

Pandoria snickered and then thrust her arms forth, guiding the lightning and horrors and strike the megazord so suddenly, and rocking the rangers about in the cockpit.

“We’re going over!” cried Buddy, as the megazord tipped off balance and crashed on the ground.

“Oh, so scared you curled up in a heap.” teased Pandoria “Allow me to scare the fears right into you more!”

The rangers pushed and pulled hard on their controls to get the megazord standing again.

“You really should have stayed down!” sneered Pandoria “Now you’re going to feel my wrath!”

The rangers didn’t even respond and just stood the megazord where it was, waiting…

“Wait for it…” said Sunset.

Pandiora then raised her arms to summon another wave of lightning and terrors.

“Go!” shouted Sunset, and Rainbow thrust on the controls making the megazord dash forth and grab hold of Pandiora. “Hey! What are you-- put me down!”

“How about right here!” called Buddy, and he hit his controls making the megazord use Pandroia as a shield to take the full zap of the powers aimed at them, shocking her and damaging her heavily.

Pandoria looked in such a mess. Her robs were tattered and charred in places. Her hair was ruffled; even her wreath of skulls was just dangling off her head.

“Blasted… by my own magic!” she groaned.

“Ha! It worked!” said Sunset “Now let’s finish it! Star Saber, Ready!”

“Star Saber… Engage!”

“Star Slash… Go!”

The megazord, with its sword already charged, slashed at Pandoria, and she screamed as her body flared up, “OH THE HORRORS!!” and she exploded and was beamed aboard the cockit in a sphere.

With her defeat, the darkness and chaos disappeared. The rangers rejoiced, and Sunset declared, “Monster Captured! Mission Complete!”

Lightning and Krysta were very impressed.

“That was… that was… I hardly know what that was.” chirped Krysta. “…It was incredible.” Lightning simply said with a fixed look of astonishment on his face.

Meanwhile, Vulcan was blazing and fuming. “Whose blundering idea was this?!

…Well…? I’m waiting!”

The minions were all shuddering in fear of his raging, but Keto finally spoke up, “Um… begging your pardon, sir… it was your idea.”

Marla grabbed him and tried to hush him, but Vulcan already heard, and despite the fakes, he flared up brighter and hotter than ever!

“Now you’ve done it!” she whispered to Keto.

Suddenly, Vulcan began to seem a little woozy.

“Master…? Are you alright?” Bronc asked with concerned and he walked over to help him balance, grabbing him by the shoulder, but Vulcan wretched away from him, “Just get out of my sights… ALL OF YOU!!” he thundered.

Heeding their orders and not wanting to get yelled at more, the minions complied and left their master in peace.

“Well, that was swimmingly.” grumbled Keto.

“I’ve never seen him so steamed. It wasn’t even our idea this time.” whined Marla.

Bronc suddenly stopped and looked down at his hand, and saw black specks. “What? This looks like blood.”

Marla and Keto stopped dead in their tracks. Now they all felt concerned and wondered if Vulcan was hurt, which would explain his terrible mood.

“But he’s just spent days and days locked up in that lab of his.” Marla pointed out “You don’t think…?”

The trio turned to look back at the chamber, but decided not to go back and question Vulcan… not just yet. So, they just shrugged it off… for now.

The rangers sent the megazord back to base, and they now stood de-morphed in the streets, with their capture in-hand.

“How did you do it?” Buddy asked Sunset.

“How were you able to get us out?” added Fluttershy.

“It was Lightning. He helped me.”

That’s when Lightning approached the team. At first most of the rangers felt as if it were their friend, but Fluttershy informed them, “That’s the human Lightning Dawn, not the pony.”

“It’s uh… great to see all of you again.” Lightning said. Krysta flew in and landed on his shoulder. “Hi…” she simply said.

Rainbow rushed over and gave him a thankful nudge in the shoulder, “Thanks a bunch!”

Lightning rubbed his shoulder “Yeah, I was glad to help, but… this was incredible! I mean, I’ve faced some tough guys before but this is…oh, my!”

He wasn’t pretending to be impressed, he really meant it.

“We’re still glad you helped us out,
Or we’d be gone by now, without a doubt.” said Rhymey.

A moment of silence followed, and Sunset couldn’t help but notice Lightning seemed a little strange, as if he were feeling awkward being around them.

“Well, I guess I’ll see you all.” and he turned to walk away.

“Bye…” Krysta called to them “If you ever need help again, you can call us.”

“Krysta…!” Lightning sneered softly.

“What?”

They were already gone, and the rangers all felt confused.

“What was that all about?” asked Rainbow.

“He looked as if he were scared of us…?” added Buddy.

“I don’t think he was scared.” said Sunset. Fluttershy agreed with her, “It looked more like… shame.”

Now everyone felt concerned and wondered, if was true, what would Lightning be ashamed about? Still, with nothing really to go on, and they had a monster to bring back to base, they decided to worry about Lightning for another time.

Episode 12: A Comet's Tale: Part 1

Author's Note

I realize the scientific inaccuracies regarding what you're about to read and stuff (Even for Sci-fi)

Nyah! Suck it up! Power Rangers do this all the time, and all that other ACCURATE stuff is irrelevant and not really part of the plot and would take up too much space anyway.

Episode 12: A Comet's Tale: Part 1

EPISODE TWELVE

One late Friday night it was so clear, and the stars were shining bright.

Many Canterlot students were gathered in the schoolyard, having their permission slips signed for a campout, and some of the staff were present as well for a big party. There were tables with food, and music to dance too, the works.

What were they all celebrating? You’d think it was the fact that Celestia had less than week before she was expected to give birth, but the truth was, it was bound to happen any moment, and she was already prepared to go to the hospital, a room reserved by her husband and everything.

No… that’s not what they were all there for, especially since many students had brought telescopes and binoculars. Some even had special cameras too.

The rangers were all together that night as well, and all of them very excited. “I can’t believe this is happening.” cried Rainbow “It’s actually going to come, and we’re going to see it.”

While Spike was sleeping on the picnic blanket, Twilight looked in an astronomy book that told stories about the White Comet, a celestial object, about half the size of Mystic Island, that was said to only pass by Earth once every three-thousand years for a period of three days, and then it would fly off into the cosmos again until the next three millennia.

“It says it’s called the White Comet because as it gets near the Earth, the reflective light from the sun makes it glow so brightly.”

The others seemed more excited the fact that they and the entire current generation would be able to see it.

Sunset wanted to get as many pictures of the comet and the night sky as she possibly could. “It’s for Artie… and the others.” she said, which began to spike her sadness. She knew Artie would have loved to see the comet and paint a picture of it.

The others felt a little sad with her, wishing all their friends could see it.

Starla would want to see it for her astro-studies…

Rarity would get so inspired to make so many beautiful outfits…

Pinkie Pie, of course, would want to be there mainly for the party.

Fluttershy almost felt like crying that their friends couldn’t be there, and Rhymey held her close comforting her, but feeling just as bad himself.

“I don’t mean to sound very rude,
But perhaps would shake off this dreary mood.”

“He’s right, you know…” said Buddy “At least we get to see, and we don’t want to miss any of it.”

The others were inclined to agree, and decided to try and make the best of things.

Elsewhere, there were other things going on.

Vulcan was observing the night sky through binoculars, and he was snickering sinisterly as he looked down at a poster in his hand about the comet coming.

Bronc came in the chamber to speak with him, “Master Vulcan… begging your pardon sir, but I thought you’d like to know that everything is ready. My new device will do exactly as you say.”

“Good…” hissed Vulcan “This comet will suffice us with just the perfect energy we need to complete our project.”

Then he though silently, “And Maybe help me with my other project as well.”

He then turned to gaze at Bronc, “Well, what are you waiting for? Get out there and standby for orders!!”

Bronc winced and replied, “Yes sir.” and he was off.

No sooner did he leave then Marla and Keto appear with a monster by their side that they had just freed from his cell. “As you requested, sir… here is Rocketeer.” said Keto.

He looked every bit of his name too; a solid silver body with a red pointed tip, and white flaps on his arms, all exactly like a rocket, but sharps and blades.

“Are you ready for your mission?” asked Vulcan.

“Absolutely.” replied Rocketeer “Long have a dreamed of reaching the stars again. I’ll get you that energy you need, and if the rangers should interfere… I’ll blast them into space-dust.”

Vulcan really liked where this was going and snickered wickedly.

(Que intro)

Bronc had built a large machine-- a tractor beam-- which he had set up on the beach on Mystic Island. “When the comet appears, my new device shall hold it its place. This will allow Rocketeer to do the rest.”

He contacted the tower to let them know he was set up, and that was the signal for Rocketeer to take off.

Marla did the countdown… “Five, Four, Three, Two… One… and GO…!!”

With that, Rocketeer, folded his body up, into the shape a small rocket, and blasted off into the sky. Naturally most radar tracking wouldn’t be able to pick him up as he was an alien, immune to their tracking, and no one could actually see him going way out at sea for hundreds of miles.

“There he goes…” said Marla “Let’s just hope he doesn’t botch this.”

Vulcan responded by stomping on her foot.

“Ow! Oh…!”

“Jinx us again, and next time I’ll cut it off!” he threatened her. “I don’t have to remind you how important this it! I want that comet’s cosmic energy!”

Marla playfully pretended to zip her lip.

“What a bimbo.” Keto grunted softly.

Meanwhile, the party was already well underway, all the students and some of the staff were dancing away, or just playing simple games, many others were enjoying the food.

Celesto seemed to be more enraptured with his wife and how her stomach was so big, it was hard not to look at, and he couldn’t help but stroke it softly saying “How are the kids doing?”

His wife placed her hand over his, “They’re just fine. They’ll be here soon.”

Celesto sighed, rather looking forward to fatherhood, of course there would be all the devotion and obligations and hours of extra work to go with it.

Celestia felt the same way, but they had taken their classes, studied books on parent and practiced with baby dolls, like their instructors said.

“I think you will both be just fine.” said Luna.

“That’s easy for you to say.” Her sister teased “You won’t have to change their diapers every ten minutes.”

All three of them shared a laugh, and suddenly, Celestia gasped softly. Her husband and sister both gawked in anticipation, thinking this was it, but it wasn’t. “It just was just a little kick. Sorry…”

Shining Armor and Principal Cadance were also invited, and were helping themselves to endless amounts of food.

Lightning and Krysta, whom had also been invited, were astonished, but concerned. “Don’t you think you guys have had enough?” Lightning asked.

“Sorry, we can’t help it.” Shining Armor said with his mouth full. His wife looked up and wiped her mouth clean, “All this excitement makes us famished. Don’t ask us why, it just does.”

Lightning and Krysta shrugged, and Lightning walked off with Krysta on his shoulder. “Gee, if they don’t stop that gorging, they’ll blow themselves out, eh Lightning.” Krysta said to him, but Lightning seemed a little far away.

“Lightning…?”

He snapped out of his trance, “Did you say something?” he asked, but Krysta gave him a look, the same one she had been giving him for days since he helped save the rangers.

She flew off his shoulder and landed on the table, and said as she looked up at him, “I know what you’re feeling, Lightning. It shows…”

Lightning sighed, “Krysta, I just don’t want this to escalate into anything big. I mean ot’s not even a big deal, and it shouldn’t be.”

Krysta rolled her little beady eyes.

“What shouldn’t be a big deal?” Fluttershy asked. She had just come over to get another drink from the soda section and had just overheard.

“Oh, it’s nothing… really.” Lightning said, “I… uh… I have to use the little men’s room.” and he walked off rather swiftly.

“Okay then…” said Fluttershy, and she asked to Krysta “Is he alright?”

Krysta knew she had to tell someone about this, not wanting Lightning to get worse. So she asked Fluttershy to take her over to the others, and there she told them all about Lightning.

“He feels small around us?” Sunset asked in disbelief. The others felt just as concerned.

“Remember after Starfleet Events…?” Krysta told everyone, “How when we left you, Lightning said he needed time to think…

Well, ever since Lightning discovered about your powers, the adventures you have, and all the other stuff… well he began to question his own abilities.”

The others began to realize the deal out of this. They knew of all Lightning’s heroic adventures, though they often just happened to him, and he ended up getting involved in these things, but the things he faced were only mere criminals, gangs, low lives, and things like that. Even when he helped them defeat the Evil Xayide… she wasn’t exactly the same as the evil aliens, and demons that the gang faced.

…Sunset being one of them of course, which brought on bad memories for her. Twilight felt the same way, remembering how her obsession with her snooping and studying lead to her becoming Midnight Sparkle!

…It still haunted her to that day, but she tried not to let it bother her much.

“So, not everyone can be a big hero like us.” said Rainbow “Heck, we didn’t even ask to get into this stuff anyway. It all just happened.”

The others knew she was right, but Krysta pointed out “The point is… ever since then, Lightning’s been realizing his limits, and after seeing what you guys are capable of, he actually wishes he could do so much more.”

Twilight felt she could actually sympathize with Lightning, “I remember at Crystal Prep, he always made me feel small, but he only was acting out of concern because he wanted me to realize the dangerous and realities of the outside world-- things I couldn’t learn in my studies.”

The rangers were all wondering what they could possibly do to comfort Lightning, and make him realize he didn’t have to feel so down… when someone cried out, “It’s the Comet!”

Every single head in the schoolyard looked up to the skies as the beautiful comet came into view, actually brightening the skies slightly, like a miniature moon.

Twilight shook Spike vigorously. “Spike, Spike, wake up! You’ve got to see this!”

Spike groaned as he woke up, but before he could complain, he just like everyone else stared in awe at the comet sailing across the sky. “Wow…!” was all he could say.

The adults looked up and were awed and amazed at the sight, especially Celesto, remembering all the spacewalks he had made and never seen such a beautiful object.

The rangers all stood together, and Sunset began to take as many pictures as she could. “It’s incredible!” she cried.

“It’s awesome!” added Rainbow.

It’s beautiful!” said Fluttershy.

“It’s… stopped!” said Buddy. Everyone gawked up at the comet in sheer confusion, but surely enough, it had stopped. Its tail had stopped flowing and everything. It was just frozen right where it was.

“What’s going on up there?
It’s stopped in midair!” said Rhymey.

“But… that’s totally impossible, in every scientific and factual mean.” said Twilight.

While everyone else was ponder and questioning over why the comet would suddenly stop, the rangers, the adults, even Lightning began to have their suspicions…!

On the beach, Bronc and the Lingos with him were maintaining the large machine that was holding the comet in its place.

“Wonderful. It’s working perfectly…” exclaimed Bronc “Now that the comet is frozen, it shall be easier for rocketeer to gather the energy we require. Once Master Vulcan has it, our project will be completed, and the rangers… oh, they will be for a surprise!”

Sunset then turned to face Celesto, their eyes met, and he rolled his eyes to the right twice, silently telling her to take the rangers and go up there an investigate. He did not dare speak loudly, not wishing to reveal his involvement with the rangers, or giving away the location of their base.

The rangers and Twilight silently crept away while people weren’t looking, slipping round back of the school and headed for a jump-tube.

Celesto felt deeply worried of being unable to follow the rangers, but he did have to stay and watch over the other students, and he didn’t feel it right to leave his wife, but Celestia pecked him on the cheek and told him, whispering softly, “Go… they need you.”

Celesto was very hesitant, but Luna, Shining Armor and Cadance agreed to take care of Celestia while he would go. So, he went off to join the rangers.

Lightning was still looking up at the comet, unable to believe it could just stop like this, but he had his feeling this was no trick of nature.

Krysta fluttered onto his shoulder, “You thinking what I’m thinking?” she asked. Lightning nodded and replied, “We’ve got work to do.”

He sent Krysta off to locate anything suspicious around the city, while he dashed for his motor-bike and drove off into the night.

While at the base, the rangers were already morphed, yet surprisingly grabbing their helmets in the arms and marching like brave astronauts to their star-jets, which were all fueled and ready to make the trip up.

“Ah… Satisfactory! Most satisfactory!” said Professor Brain “Never had I dreamed that I would create space-worthy vehicles.”

The rangers all shared a small chuckle at his pride. Then Celesto came to give them instructions. “Twilight is trying to work on whatever it is we think has stopped the comet, and all of you are going up there to investigate. You all know what to do when you get there?”

“YES SIR!” the rangers said as they saluted.

“All right, standby for launch!”

The rangers each began to place their helmets on-- Rhymey and Fluttershy shared a quick kiss for luck before donning their helmets-- and climbed into their jets.

Soon, the jets were launched, and flew in formation out over the sea.

“Is everyone with me?” Sunset called into the radio. Each of her teammates responded…

Buddy: “I’m ready.”

Rainbow: “Rock ‘N Roll!”

Rhymey: “Nothing to it, but to do it.”

Fluttershy: “Um… ready?”

“Okay… let’s hit it!” said sunset, and she and the others all rocketed their jets upward.

Twilight and Spike saw the whole thing on the monitors, “There they go…” said Spike, “good luck guys.”

Celesto saw the jets rocketing up, which again brought on his glory days as an astronaut, but now was not the time to think of that. “Any luck finding anything?” he asked.

“Nothing yet…” replied Twilight as she typed in the computer. “Wait…! I got something. I’m reading signs of some sort-of-magnetic field, like our tractor beams. It’s holding the comet where it is, and I’m betting I know who’s behind all this.”

Celesto and Spike both had the same feeling this was Vulcan’s doing as well.

“But what would Vulcan want with the comet?” Spike wondered. “Whatever it is, it cannot be good.” said Celesto, “Twilight, can you trace the tractor-beam’s origin?”

“Still working on that.” replied Twilight “I can only triangulate tiny bits of the signal, but nothing to give a definite location.”

Celesto decided to contact the rangers and give the information they knew.

The rangers had just escaped Earth’s magnetic field and were out in space, taking a couple of seconds to admire the view… when Celesto warned them about the plot.

“Did you all get that?” Sunset asked to the others.

“Clear as a whistle.” replied Rainbow.

“So, Vulcan is behind this…” said Buddy “Think it’s a trap to catch us?”

Fluttershy felt a shiver run down her spine, “I sure hope it isn’t, because we’re heading straight into it.”

She was right, the star-jets were reaching the frozen comet, but so far everything looked to be okay. The scanners could detect nothing out of the usual. Just amounts of rock, ice, gas from fissures erupting.

“We’ll circle round once then circle round twice,
We’ll search over every bit of rock and ice.” Rhymey suggested.

“Good idea…” agreed Sunset “Everyone spread out and keep in contact. We’ll rendezvous back here after two sweeps each.”

With that, the jets flew in different directions, far above the comet’s surface.

While down below, deep within a fissure on the comet, where they rangers couldn’t detect, Rocketeer, and a team of Lingos weapons space-helmets were already sucking the bits of material and energies from the comet.

Suddenly he looked up through the large fissure, and saw one of the star jets fly past. “The rangers are here.” he grunted.

The Lingos seemed ready to drop work and go up there to bust the rangers down, but Rocketeer held them back, “No-no, you space cases! Just keep that energy coming. I’ll handle this!”

He folded his hands upward on hinges, revealing his arms had doubled as missile-launchers.

The rangers were had completed their sweeps and all met together, still in free float high above the comet.

“We’ve checked round here and way over there,
We can’t find anything strange anywhere.” Rhymey reported.

The others concurred with their own empty findings as well, when suddenly they’re warning alarms went off, and before they could react, they were attacked by a barrage of small missiles, rocking the jets about.

“What’s happening?!” cried Fluttershy.

“Look down there!” shouted Buddy.

The rangers all looked and saw a rocket-shaped monster down on the clear surface. “Hey, Rangers…” he called out to them “Here’s another little surprise for you!” and he launched more missiles.

“Swerve!” shouted Sunset, and she and the rangers managed to dodge the attack, and began to pursue the monster.

“Oh, so you think you can outmaneuver Rocketeer, eh?” he boasted. He folded into his rocket shape and blasted off after the jets.

“Open fire!” shouted Sunset. The rangers complied and fired their lasers at the rocket, but their every shot seemed to bounce right off of the special metal coating.

“Well that sure worked well.” remarked Rainbow “Any plan B’s?”

“Oh, I got one, and it involves me destroying you!” shouted Rocketeer as he rocketed past each get, slicing into their sides with his sharp wing-blades, creating showers of sparks and small explosions.

“This guy’s beating us easily, and he’s not even a giant!” shouted Sunset.

“Hang tough, guys!” called Buddy.

As the battle waged on, Lightning was veering across the roads on his motorbike, and Krysta was nestled into his jacket pocket for the ride. “You’re sure about this?” Lightning asked to her.

“I’m sure…” replied Krysta “I saw some weird guys out on the beach a few blocks from here with a weird machine. I’m pretty sure that’s what’s holding the comet up there.”

Lightning narrowed his eyes “Well, these guys are about to feel the thunder that is Lightning!”

Krysta agreed, and Lightning drove his bike up the street faster than ever!

Bronc and his team were maintaining vigil watch over the tractor beam, and growing a little impatient for the mission to be over.

“What is taking so long?” grumbled Bronc. The Lingos didn’t verbally respond as they couldn’t speak, and just shrugged and looked confused.

Suddenly, Lightning came crashing in on his motor-bike, bowling over the Lingos as he skidded across the sands to a halt.

“What is this?!” shouted Bronc.

Lightning hopped down and sneered “…This is your worst nightmare!”

Enraged, Bronc ordered the Lingos to attack him. Lightning quickly tossed Krysta out of his pocket so she’d fly to safety, and he then proceeded to knock down each and every Lingo that came his way, showing extreme martial skills like the rangers had.

“Oh, yeah!” thundered Bronc, and he jumped in to join the fight as well, firing his eye lasers. Lightning saw and quickly jumped out of the way. “Whoa! That was close!”

He looked round behind him and saw Bronc furiously stomping towards him, “…but not as close as this!” and he threw a handful of sand at the villain’s helmet mask blinding him for a split second, enabling Lightning to give him a good jump-kick in the chest and sent him skidding across the sand.

Krysta saw the whole thing as she stood on a rock. “Way to go, Lightning!” she cheered.

Lightning groaned as held one of his feet, “Man, that’s like kicking a steel wall!”

Then he looked behind him and saw the tractor-beam, “I’ve gotta try and shut this thing down!”

He was about to tinker with it, when Bronc furiously got to his feet. “Earthman!” he thundered “Your first mistake was coming here, you’re second was interfering… now it will cost you!”

“Bring it on, tin-face!” snarled Lightning.

As the two brawled, Vulcan was viewing everything from his monitors, Keto and Marla looked too. “Hey, that’s the same human whom interfered in our last operation.” said Keto.

“He doesn’t look like much.” scoffed Marla “Though; he is giving Bronc a lot of trouble.”

Vulcan on the other hand seemed rather impressed by Lightning’s skills. “Bring him to me.” he said to the others, which shocked Marla and Keto. “What?” they both asked.

Vulcan turned and growled at them, “You heard me! Bring… that… human… here! I just may have an idea that involves him!”

Marla and Keto were still skeptical and hesitant, but it wasn’t until Vulcan flared up in rage threatening to roast them that they complied and dashed off. Then Vulcan turned back to watch the fight and snickered as he watched Lightning, “You’ll do very nicely…”

Meanwhile, the alarm suddenly went off at the base, and Twilight already spotted what the problem was, “Oh, no!” she cried.

“What, what is it?” asked Celesto.

“The comet, it’s being pulled towards us by the Earth’s gravity. Even the tractor beam around it won’t be able to hold it in place much longer.”

This was a serious disaster. Given the comet’s size, it was already estimated that even though the comet would be reduced in the atmosphere, it would still be large enough to impact the ocean and cause a massive tidal wave that would spread hundreds of miles…!

Mystic Island, and about half the United States and surrounded areas would be wiped out!

“That’s not even funny!” cried Spike “What do we do?! WHAT DO WE DO?!”

“Calm down, Spike…” said Celesto, though that was really right thing to say, “First we have to tell the rangers!”

“Come back here you!” shouted Sunset as she chased after Rocketeer, only for him to veer away causing her to zoom right past him. “Ya missed me…!” he laughed, and fired another barrage of missiles at the other rangers as they came at him.

The rangers yelped and shouted as they were rocked about.

“I’m gonna blow you all into space dust!” shouted Rocketeer!

The rangers were really growing annoying but still couldn’t figure out how to get at him, when Celesto called from the base and warned them about the falling comet!

“Are you sure about this?” cried Fluttershy.

“Positive!” replied Celesto “In less than twenty minutes, the comet will start falling rapidly towards us. It will erode in the atmosphere, but not enough to avoid serious consequences. You all must try and divert its path.”

The rangers that impossible, given the comet’s size to the size of their jets, but before they could question anything, they were struck again by Rocketeer. “Did you forget about me?” he teased them.

“We’ll get back to you.” said Sunset, and she logged off to focus on the fight. “Okay, I’ve had enough of this.”

Suddenly, she had an idea how to deal with the monster-- catch it by surprise-- which she said quietly to her team over the communication.

The rangers all had a sneaky, cheeky expression behind their helmets, and they all steered their jets to the other side of the comet.

“Hey, where’re you going?!” shouted Rocketeer, and he sped on after them, only to arrive around the other side of the comet to find they were gone. “Where did they go?” he wondered, but all he could see was the mists of gas from the comet surface below, and empty space all around.

He unfolded into his regular-shape and flew around looking all over. “Show yourselves!” he shouted “You can’t hide from me!”

Suddenly, a large metallic fist thrust up from the mist below, hitting him hard and knocking him way up into space.

He angrily looked down and saw the Jet star Megazord standing upright on the comet’s surface. “Surprise, Rocketeer! We can transform too, you know.” hollered Sunset.

“Ha! You think I’m scared?” shouted Rocketeer “Take this!” and he fired a barrage of many, many rockets, but forgetting his small size, the rockets didn’t make the huge megazord even flinch. “Uh-Oh…!”

“Let him have it guys!” hollered Sunset. The rangers complied and charged up the tractor beams.

“I’m outta here!” cried Rocketeer, but his efforts to fly away were futile as the tractor beam was fired and caught him, reducing him down to size and imprisoned him in a sphere, which was beamed into the cockpit.

The rangers were joyous of their capture, but suddenly Celesto called them up, “Rangers! Time is running out. The comet is getting closer!”

The rangers realized he was right. “Okay, let’s break the megazord down.” said Sunset. The rangers complied, and in almost no time, the megazord split up into the five jets again, and they zoomed to the backside of the comet.

Twilight spoke to them, “Okay, guys, listen… according to my observations, there’s lots of pockets and fissures in the comet. If you change your tractor beams hard enough, the power will spread all through the comet. You just might be able to pull it away!”

“Might… huh?” Rainbow asked.

“Gee, I like those odds.” Buddy added sarcastically.

Despite their skepticism of whether it would work or not, the rangers all charged up their tractor beams. “Fire!” shouted Sunset. The beams all fired, and just as Twilight said, the power spread through the fissures, holes and pockets, spreading all over the comet.

“We’ve got hold of it.” cried Fluttershy.

“Alright, full reverse-thrust!” hollered Sunset.

The jets all fired their retros to back away, but even with the magnetism of their tractor beams, and the pulling of their thrusters it was like asking a man to move a mountain! The comet only seemed to quiver, but it didn’t pull back at all and continued to inch forth towards the Earth, pulling the rangers and their jets with it.

“It’s not working!” cried Sunset!

“We pull with all our might and will,
But we require more power still!” shouted Rhymey.

“Don’t give up, rangers! Keep trying!” Celesto said to them.

Twilight did her computations and realized it was because the other tractor beam that was holding the comet out there in the first place. “If only it would shut down, it would give them an edge… but I still can’t locate the alien signals. The computer can’t trace it!”

“Ah, man! What are we going to do?!” cried Spike.

Back on the beach, Lightning was starting to get tired, as was Bronc from all their brawling, and Lightning now stood backed up against the machine, panting heavily, while the menacing Bronc approached him.

“You fight well, for a human and not even a ranger at that. I commend you for it… but don’t think this means I will spare you from utter destruction.”

“Really…? How unfortunate…” Lightning said, but he had a plan in mind, and waited… until Bronc’s eyes glowed to fire his lasers. Then, he swiftly rolled out of the way causing Bronc to blast the machine blowing it out!

“Ah…! Oh, No!!” cried Bronc.

With the tractor beam ceased, the rangers suddenly found the comet pulling away much easier.

“Hey!” cried Sunset.

“What’s happening?” added Buddy.

Regardless of how it was happening to them, they finally managed to pull the comet away from the Earth and sent it flying off into space.

“We… did it?” Fluttershy asked in disbelief.

“We did…” replied Rainbow, but she herself was astonished as were all the others.

“Come on… let’s get back to base.” said Sunset, and, with the mission complete, the jets rocketed back to Earth.

Meanwhile, Bronc was horrified that he destroyed his own creation, and infuriated at Lightning. “YOU…!!” he thundered and looked ready to rush him to the ground, when suddenly Marla appeared and grabbed Lightning within her long hair, binding him tightly, even round his eyes so he couldn’t see.

“What are you doing?!” Bronc snapped at her. “Orders from Master Vulcan…” Marla explained.

Bronc was most confused, but if what she said was true, he didn’t dare question Vulcan’s demands.

“Lightning…!” cried Krysta.

“Krysta, go… get out of here!” Lightning shouted at her.

“But Lightning…!”

“DON’T WORRY ABOUT ME…!!”

Then he was gone, vanished along with Marla and Bronc.

“…LIGHTNING!!”

Poor little Krysta was on the verge of tears, but rather than sit and bewail the tragedy, she knew she needed to get help, and she flew off as fast as her wings could carry her.

Meanwhile, at Vulcan’s tower, The Lingos had long since returned from space and had already finished unloading the energy taken from the comet, and were preparing it along with the stolen volcanic energy for, the big project.

Bronc was already put to work and Keto was helping him, but Bronc was still complaining a bit. “I would rather have destroyed that parasite for destroying my work.”

“Never mind that…” said Keto “Vulcan says he’ll be useful for this project, and you of all know better than to question him!”

Frustrated, Bronc grumbled “I suppose…”

Meanwhile, Lightning was tied to a chair and he couldn’t break free. He had no idea where he was or even what part of the world he was in.

But all around him he saw Lingos squawking and babbling.

“Where am I?” Lightning called out, and he began to struggle to try and break free.

“I’m afraid it’s no use struggling.” hissed a nasty voice, and from out of the shadows, Vulcan appeared. As freaky as he appeared, Lightning’s insides were boiling with rage. “So you’re the one behind all this!” he sneered softly. “That’s right! The name is Vulcan: Planet broker extraordinaire.

I’ll make a long story short, I’m going to conquer this planet and sell it on the open galactic markets… and I’ve decided that YOU are going to help me.”

“Ha!” scoffed Lightning “If you think I’d help you, you’re as crazy as you are ugly-looking!”

The Lingos all seemed frightened, and Vulcan sneered, “That may be the first time in a long time someone had the nerve to insult me… and I could roast you to a cinder for it!!”

Lightning felt his insides quaking with fear, but he tried his best not to let it show. Fortunately for him, Vulcan had no intention to destroy him as he still needed him.

“I told you I won’t help you!” Lightning sneered.

“Silly human, I wasn’t giving you a choice…” hissed Vulcan, “Your life as you know it is about to change forever!” His evil laugh made Lightning sweat. Whatever was going to happen to him would be revealed soon!

To Be Continued…!

Episode 13: A Comet's Tale: Part 2

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Episode 14: A Comet's Tale: Part 3

EPISODE FOURTEEN

The rangers were still shocked and baffled by what they had just learned.

“Twilight, are you sure about this?” asked Buddy.

“There can be no mistake.” replied Twilight “Lightning is the Comet Ranger.”

Krysta was still trying all she could to deny what was going on. “It can’t be! Lightning would never do such a thing… especially to all of us.”

The others couldn’t have agreed more. Lightning was not the kind of person to work for evil creeps, not even if being blackmailed or threatened. “Which suggests only one thing…” said Celesto “Somehow Vulcan must’ve brainwashed Lightning and is controlling him.”

“Which means we have to figure out some way to break that control and save him.” added Sunset.

“That’s going to be easier said than done.” said Rainbow “We still don’t know where Vulcan’s tower is, so we can’t even go try to find him.”

“I don’t think we’ll even have to find Lightning.” said Fluttershy “Knowing Vulcan, he’ll send him after us again.”

A moment of silence followed, as everyone contemplated the facts that they would have to fight Lightning again, even if he was their friend, but none of them seemed too keen on bringing themselves to do it.

Even Celesto felt as down about it, but he pointed out, “We can’t let Lightning destroy the city; thousands of people.”

The rangers all hesitated, but ultimately Rhymey said…

“Whether or not it seems wrong or right,
If Lightning shows up, we’ll have to fight.”

Fluttershy hung her head low, and the others felt just as concerned.

“Come on, guys, snap out of it!” said Spike “Remember how you saved Twilight when she turned evil?”

Twilight palmed her forehead, “Oh, you had to bring that up.”

“No, he’s right…” said Sunset “We did have to fight you, but we were able to save you… just like… just like it was with me.”

Despite the painful memories, the rangers all agreed that they could do it all again and try to help Lightning.

(Que Intro)

The next day, Lightning was fully revived, and given his morpher back, thus, placing him again under Vulcan’s evil influence because of the codes programed into the morpher.

Vulcan was walking with Lightning through the prison discussing the next plan of attack. “We’ve managed to isolate the remaining flaws in your powers and natural strength.” Vulcan said to Lightning “But just in case, we shall team you up with the monster Desperado.”

Lightning smirked and said “It is well worth the effort that if by doing so I may please you, Master Vulcan… especially to make up for my previous blunder.”

Vulcan snickered proudly, “Much as I trust your rising efficiency, I don’t want you taking any huge risks. We still have yet to fully understand the full potential of your powers, and the rangers are worthy adversaries, they’re always up to tricks as well.”

The other three minions were watching from a few floors up and felt badly neglected and rather jealous by the favor Vulcan seemed to take in Lightning.

“Look at him hogging all the attention!” Marla complained “We work ourselves to the bone and he takes all the notice.”

“The only work you’ve done the past while is on your nails and your hair.” scoffed Keto.

“Still, this could be the chance we’ve been waiting for…” Bronc pointed out “If all goes well, the rangers will be defeated for good.”

The others couldn’t argue with that.

“I must go now…” said Lightning “I wouldn’t want to keep the rangers waiting for their doom.”

Vulcan agreed and dismissed him, and then walked off himself, making his way for his private lab where his other little creation stood… hidden out of view from anyone else.

“I haven’t forgotten about you.” Vulcan whispered to… whatever it was he was making.

Meanwhile, despite all the impending dangers, the people of Mystic Island chose to continue their daily routines, and show that they were not about to let monsters keep them at bay.

Even the rangers decided to kick off and go about their own business until something happened.

They all went with Twilight and Spike, accompanying them on their walk in the park. Also, for Twilight to silently show them all something she had been working on since the other night.

“I developed this new ability into your morphers, it’s called the “Able-Boost Mode” When activated it’ll increase your speed and strengths ten-fold.”

She rang a computer simulation on the suits in Able-Boost mode, showing that the rangers would become stronger and faster.

“Whoa! Awesome!” cried Rainbow “It’ll be like having our full Starfleet powers back again.”

“Well, almost…” said Twilight “The Able-Boost can only work for one minute.”

“That’s it? Just one minute?” asked Fluttershy. “I’m afraid so.” replied Twilight “Over-using it would have too much of an impact on your natural equilibriums. In fact, just using them as they are might make you feel a bit woozy, but it’s the best I could do.”

“Well, hopefully it will help us all
to save Lightning and make the baddies fall.” said Rhymey.

“I hope it does too…” said Krysta as she looked off in the distance wondering where Lightning was.

Fluttershy softly patted the bird’s little head again, but she honestly didn’t know what else to tell her. She just hoped Krysta would continue to be brave and trust in them to save Lightning.

Suddenly, everyone heard the sounds of people of screaming nearby followed by more people running away in panic.

“Let’s go!” said Sunset, and she and the rangers dashed off while the two animals stayed with Twilight, and they all hid behind a bush keeping out of sight.

The people were still running about in panic, as a giant lasso roped a huge tree, and someone pulled on the rope actually forcing the tree down, nearly falling over so many people.

A group of joggers dashed off as fast as they could, but the stranger whipped out a revolver that shot laser pulses instead of bullets. He fired at the runners making sparks fly all around them and causing the runners to fall and roll down grassy slopes.

The stranger blew on his gun and stashed it.

He was a creature that resembled that of a wester cowhand, with an armored vest, a black ten-gallon hat with spikes round the rim, and he even had a big Yosemite styled mustache

“Alright…” he shouted “Which of you lily-livered varmints wants a taste of Desperado now?”

“We do!” shouted Sunset.

Desperado turned and saw the rangers staring at him, almost like cowboys for the draw.

Buddy was livid seeing the tree and a few others had been pulled down. “You sicko…! How could you do that to innocent trees?”

Desperado laughed and stroked his rope, “I can do many things with my enchanted lasso, and I’m a’tendin’ to rope you all into my clutches too. YE-HAW!”

“Okay, this guy is really starting to annoy me.” said Rainbow. The others felt the same and all stood together.

“It’s Morphin’ Time!” shouted Sunset.

“STARFLEET MAGIC… POWER ON!!”

Once morphed, the rangers grabbed their weapons. “Time to Shine…!” Sunset declared.

“Draw!” shouted Desperado, and he drew his gun as the rangers began to rush for him. He fired two shots, but the rangers kept on coming. He fired again, still he missed.

He sheathed his gun and tipped his hat, “Coral time…!”

Rhymey swung his sword, but missed and Desperado karate-chopped him, and shoved him off.

Fluttershy dashed at him with her shield out front to guard against attacks, but unfortunately she didn’t watch for her legs, and Desperado grabbed his rope and whipped her, tripping her up.

Suddenly, he heard a whip crack, and he turned to see Buddy holding his Plasma Whip. “Show me what’cha got, tough guy.”

Desperado snickered, “Boy, you don’t the ropes like I do.”

Then he showed off his mad roping skills, whirling, twirling, leaping through, and skipping over.

Buddy then retorted by showing his equally good skills with his whip, but in a swift move, he struck the monster hard and sent him rolling along the ground. “Why you, mean-green thumb...! I’ll get’cha!”

He tried to charge, but was suddenly bombarded by Sunset and Rainbow blasting him with their weapons. “More like we got you!” said Sunset.

The rangers all regrouped together and Desperado got up to his feet. “Don’t y’all be gettin’ a big head now… I still got a trick or two up my sleeve.” he whistled loudly.

Twilight and the animals were watching from the big bush, away from the fight. “Who’s he calling?” Spike asked.

“Look!” cried Twilight.

From out of nowhere came Lingos appeared, and Comet Ranger came leaping in beside the monster, and looking raring to brawl. “I’m back…” he teased.

The rangers expressed concern for his appearance.

“Lightning…!” Krysta peeped softly. She tried to fly over to him, but Twilight grabbed her and held her back, “No, Krysta! It’s too dangerous!”

Once again, the two sides stared each other down like a real shootout was about to commence.

“Lightning, listen to us…” cried Sunset “You’re being controlled. You don’t know what you’re doing.”

“Silence!” snapped Lightning “Nothing you say or do will spare you the agony of defeat.”

“Well said, partner…” commented Desperado “These here City Slickers need to realize this world ain’t big enough for us all.”

“Come on, Lightning. Don’t do this!” said Buddy Rose.

“But I will!” shouted Lightning, and he leapt into action, and he was followed by Desperado “YE-HAW!” he shouted as he and the Lingos charged.

“We don’t have a choice!” said Sunset “Let’s move!”

Given that there were so many enemies, the rangers had to divide up.

A swarm of Lingos charged at Rainbow, but she kicked them off, and shot at them with her cannon. “Time to really turn things up!” she said as she charged her cannon to full power.

“Sonic Cannon… Engage!”

“Fire in the hole…!” Rainbow shouted as she fired a thunderous blast that shot right through the swarm of Lingos in a straight line.

Rhymey served and dodge each and every Lingo that came at him, and then charged up his sword…

“Raid Blade… Engage!”

“Okay, Rat…
You can take that!” Rhymey shouted as he gave his sword a huge swing, and the glowing blade extended and struck all the Lingos around him down, and they exploded.

Suddenly, Desperado stepped in and fired his gun at Rhymey, making sparks fly and Rhymey went down.

“Rhymey!” cried Fluttershy, and she rushed over to help her boyfriend, when Lightning leapt down in front of her, “Not so fast!”

The two rangers began to brawl, but Lightning still seemed to be too strong for one ranger to handle alone.

Lightning knocked Fluttershy’s shield away, and despite Fluttershy’s efforts to hit him, he blocked her every move and punched her hard and send her rolling along the ground.

“We’re coming!” Sunset shouted as she and the other rangers came rushing to help, only get lassoed by Desperado’s rope. “Grab a bull by the horns!” he laughed.

He pulled hard in the rope slamming the three rangers all about, damaging them with each strike.

Twilight and the animals winced at each blow as they watched from behind the bush.

“This is so not good!” cried Spike.

“Really, what was your first clue?” snapped Krysta.

The rangers tried to break free from the rope, but it was a lot stronger than it seemed. As For Rhymey and Fluttershy, they rushed in to try to help their friends, but Lightning ambushed them.

“That’s as far as you go.” He hissed, and he kicked them both hard to the ground.

The two rangers got up and fought valiantly, while also attempting to try and get through to him. “Lightning, you have to believe us…!” cried Fluttershy.

“Never!” shouted Lightning as he leapt up high and kicked her hard.

Rhymey then jumped in, swinging his sword at him, but Lightning dodged his every swing, and even blocked his arms with his own.

“Can’t you tell…
You’re under a spell?”

Lightning growled and knocked Rhymey’s sword away and then flipped him over.

“I made the mistake of not finishing you off before… an error I don’t intend to repeat this time!”

Rhymey and Fluttershy sat together, not knowing what to do next, while the others were still tied up in the rope and Desperado pointed his gun at them, “I’m a’gonna count to ten, then fire, for the satisfaction.”

“Any last words?” hissed Lightning.

“ABLE BOOST…!” Twilight shouted. Everyone turned to face the bush, and saw her bolt upright and calling to the rangers “Use the Able Boost!”

“Silence!” shouted Lightning, and he unleashed a wave of his comet energy at her. Twilight and the animals dashed for cover just missing the blast.

“She’s right… it’s our only chance.” said Fluttershy.

Rhyme nodded…

“I’m with you…
Now let’s do!”

The two rangers stood together and shouted, “ABLE BOOST MODE… ACTIVATE!” and the pressed on their morpher badges…

“Able Boost Mode… Engage!”

“What’s this?” snapped Lightning. He watched as Fluttershy and Rhymey were bathed in streams of bright light, the color corresponding their respective ranger colors, and when the light faded, they stood where they were, but their suits were pulsating brightly.

Both of them felt a surge of power coursing through them.

“This feels incredible!” said Fluttershy.

“What in the hotel bills?” shouted Desperado.

Rhymey clenched his fists tightly, and then he sprinted over the monster and punched hard in the face, not even giving him a chance to react, and sent him skidding along the ground, dropping his rope, allowing the other rangers to wriggle free.

“Hey, way to go, Rhymey.” said Rainbow.

“I got to try this myself.” added Buddy.

“Well, let’s do it…” said Sunset, “Able Boost Mode… Activate!”

Twilight and the animals gazed at all five rangers, now glowing beautifully, admiring the coolness.

Lightning and Desperado didn’t seem to think it such a big deal.

“Let’s crush ‘em!” said Lightning to Desperado. “You got it, partner.”

The two rushed forth.

“Let’s see what this Able Boost can really do.” said Sunset.

Just before the two villains could strike, the rangers all zipped off causing them to miss.

“Right behind you…” Susnet teased. The two villains turned round and saw the rangers standing behind them. “Blast ‘em!” shouted Lightning, and he began to fire his comet blasts while Desperado fired his laser beams, but the rangers stomped forth through the barrage of blasts, actually taking the hits and not even flinching thanks to their enhanced strengths.

“This can’t be!” cried Lightning.

The rangers rushed forth, Rhymey and Fluttershy punched the two villains hard, and sent them flying backwards.

And Buddy and Rainbow both charged after Lightning.

Lightning was furious, but it seemed the tables had turned and he wasn’t able to return a single hit, and got struck hard and the two sent him sailing upward and he crashed down hard on his back.

“No, no… stop!” cried Krysta. She was worried they were taking it too far, and didn’t want Lightning to get really hurt.

“She’s right.” cried Buddy, “Let’s go after the monster.”

“Right…!”

The rangers dashed off, leaving Lightning flat on his back.

As for Desperado, he grabbed his rope, “I’m a’gonna rope y’all to the ground for this!” he shouted as he lassoed Sunset and tried to bind her as tightly as he could, but Sunset used her new strength and actually broke the rope, much to Desperado’s shock.

And the other rangers came sprinting in from many directions, striking him mercilessly.

Twilight and the animals were most pleased. Spike howled in rejoice.

The rangers stood together, and they stopped glowing. Their one-minute was up. “Whoa! I’m feeling a bit woozy here!” Sunset groaned as she held her head.

“Me too…” said Buddy “But it’s not so bad.”

At Vulcan’s tower, Vulcan was losing his patients. “Those rangers are always up to nasty tricks. Do it, Keto.”

Keto nodded, “FORTISSIMO!”

He only fired one. “I don’t need to shoot another. I think the rangers are in for a BIG enough surprise as it is.”

The mugic made its way to Mystic Island, and grew Desperado to a huge size. “YE-HAW… time for the BIG showdown now.” he thundered.

Twilight and the animals shuddered in fear at the sight of the giant creature, and they ran for it while they could.

“Let’s go guys!” said sunset “…Jet-Star Megaord!”

The Megazord arrived on the scene, already fully transformed, and the rangers beamed into the cockpit.

Lightning sat upright and groaned angrily. Then he looked up and saw the fight about to commence, and he was determined to get the rangers back!

Desperado gripped his rope, which was repaired thanks to the mugic, “Time to rustle me some rangers.”

“Look out for the lasso.” cried Rainbow, but the Megazord already got roped, and was bound tightly.

“Everybody, hang on!” shouted Sunset.

Desperado laughed, and pulled the megazord over like he did the trees in the park, and down the rangers went with a huge thud.

“Like beatin’ a dead horse...” Desperado then grabbed his gun, “Any last words, Varmints?”

The megazord suddenly kicked its leg up, booting Desperado hard and sent him rolling along. “Why you cheatin’ dogs!”

“Call that the quick-kick!” teased Rainbow.

The megazord stood and stretched out from the rope, breaking it to bits and then pulled out its sword.

“I ain’t scared of that over-grown pocket-knife…” shouter Desperado, “Not while I got my laser revolver!”

“We’ll see about that.” protested Sunset.

Desperado fired his gun at the megazord, hitting it but hardly doing much damage other than a few small explosions. The megazord just charged right forth and took a great swing with its sword SLASHING the gun’s mouth out, destroying the weapon.

“No!!” cried the creature.

“Too bad…” said Sunset “Star Slash… Go!”

The saber was already charged and powered… the megazord slashed the creature hard. “I’M GOING OUT TO PASTURE!!” he shouted before he exploded and was imprisoned.

The rangers cheered over their successful capture, but suddenly there was a bright flash of light coming from behind.

“What’s going on?” asked Sunset.

“I don’t know…” replied Buddy “But the scanners show an immense amount of power is forming behind us.”

The megazord turned, and what the rangers saw was Lightning, laughing maliciously as he actually expanded in size and grew as big as the megazord. This was due to the comics energies from the power of the comet.

“Thought I was down for the count, huh?” he called out.

The rangers were shocked and somewhat amazed…

…As were Twilight and the animals as they watched the whole thing down below, and away from the battle.

“…Am I seeing what I think I’m seeing?!” cried Spike.

“Lightning!” whimpered Krysta. “He… he can actually grow in size? That’s incredible!” added Twilight. The animals gave her a sour glare. “What? It is… despite the problem we have.”

Lightning cracked his knuckles and socked his hand with his fist, “You may have beaten Desperado, but I won’t be so easy!”

“Lightning, please…” Sunset called “We don’t need to fight like this.”

“Spare me the pacifism!” snapped Lightning, and he rushed forth, and attacked, striking the Megazord hard making sparks fly and rocking the rangers in the cockpit.

“He’s coming round again!” cried Fluttershy, and Lightning did, jump-kicking and hitting the megazord again, knocking it into its back. Lightning then proceeded to kick the saber away.

…It crashed way outside of the park, stuck into the ground.

“The saber!” cried Sunset.

“We’ve got to get it back!” said Rainbow. She pulled on her controls, and made the megazord kicked Lightning off. This allowed the megazord to stand upright again, and dash for the saber...!

“Oh, no you don’t!” yelled Lightning and he leapt up high and over in front of the megazord again “I’m not finished with you yet.” And he gave the megazord huge punch to the chest sending it back a few paces.

“Lightning, please!” cried Fluttershy “We don’t want to fight you!”

“Oh, what’s wrong?” teased Lightning “Is it because I’m not like you guys at all? Well, that can be fixed!” with that, he pressed on his morpher badge.

“What’s he doing now?” asked Buddy.

Everyone then watched as Lightning began to glow and he shouted out, “COMET STRIKER…ARMOR UP!”

Programed into his powers was a special transformation technique, allowing him to don a powerful suit of armor, silver and white with red stripes around the wrists, ankles, belt, and Lightning had actually become his very own megazord!

The rangers, Twilight, the animals; all were positively speechless!

At Vulcan’s tower, all the villains were watching with such excitement and joy. Vulcan laughed wickedly, “An excellent creation, Bronc.”

Bronc bowed thankfully, “Thanks to the information we obtained from Twilight Sparkle’s computer gave me just enough to create our very own megazord.

The Comet Striker: armed with weapons and technologies similar to that of the rangers’ megazord, but enhanced with the cosmic energies of the comet, and a brutal lethalites of the volcanic energy.

…The rangers have no chance against this power!”

Marla and Keto were bubbling with excitement, and anxious to see the rangers finally fall.

“Take a good look at me now, rangers…!” Lightning sneered at them “Now I’m just like you in every way, only far superior.”

He then reached behind him and handed the saber back to the megazord.

“Why did he just give it back?” asked Rainbow.

Rhymey growled softly…

“He feels he can beat us no matter what,
We still have to fight him, like it or not.”

“I hate to say it, but you’re right.” said Sunset. “If you want a fight, Lightning, let’s go!”

Lightning snickered and charged forth, thrusting his fist forward, but the megazord blocked it with the blade of its saber.

“I still have another arm, duh!” snapped Lightning, and he socked the megazord hard, but it wasn’t beaten yet.

“Stay strong guys!” cried Sunset.

The megazord charge forth and swung it’s sword hard, but Lightning blocked the attack with his left arm, and knocked the saber out of his way with his right, only to receive a huge kick from his opponent making sparks fly.

“Not bad, but not good enough!” sneered Lightning, and from out of his wrists came two medium sized blades.

“Oh, boy…! This can’t be good!” said Rainbow.

Even Rhymey felt a little concerned, and he was the master fencer.

“Two blades to one,
But it can still be done.”

The two hulks clashed blades with one another in a strong fencing brawl, but Lightning still had the upper-hand due to having two blades. He used one to block any attacks, and the other to strike back.

“They’re getting creamed up there!” cried Spike, “We’ve gotta do something!” added Krysta. Both she and Spike gazed at Twilight, but even she had no idea of what to do at this point.

Even the rangers were starting to run low on options as they took another double strike from Lightning’s blades and the megazord was knocked backwards.

Sparks were starting to fly inside the cockpit, and the lights were fade-blinking. “Damage levels reaching critical!” cried Buddy “We can’t take much more of this!”

“Switch to emergency power before he gets us again!” cried Sunset.

The megazord still stood tall and Lightning laughed, “Say goodbye, rangers; you’re finished!”

With that, his two blades began to glow, and he spun round once in a slow pirouette as the scene around him became an illusionary field of space as comets passed by. “Have a taste of my Super Space Strike!”

“He’s going to strike us!” cried Fluttershy.

“What are we going to do?!” whimpered Rainbow

Sunset clenched her fists, “Quick guys…!”

“Attack!” shouted Lightning, and he thrust his two blades forth, like striking comets.

KAPOW!! A massive explosion!

The animals were in shock, and Twilight, tears flowed down her face as she screamed up, “NOOOOOO…!!!”

To Be Continued…!

Episode 15: A Comet's Tale: Final Part

EPISODE FIFTEEN

Lightning’s blades were charged up, “SUPER SPACE STRIKE…!!” he shouted, and he thrust forward

KAPOW!! A massive explosion!

The animals were in shock, and Twilight, tears flowed down her face as she screamed up, “NOOOOOO…!!!”

Back at the tower, Vulcan’s minions and the Lingos were rejoicing the supposed destruction of the megazord and the rangers.

“They’re gone! They’re finally gone!” cheered Marla.

“Wee… WHOOPEE!” cried Keto as he threw his hat up and danced with his staff.

Bronc and Vulcan were not much of wild cheerers, but they stood where they were content, and shared a friendly handshake on success… when suddenly, they gawked at the monitors…!

“QUIET…!!” shouted Vulcan. The entire place went silent in a split second, and suddenly everyone could see what was going on, but they couldn’t believe it in the least bit.

The smoke from the explosion had cleared, but the megazord was not there, nor any traces of it. Instead, the Star-Jets zoomed straight over Lightning, all five of them still in one piece each.

“I have GOT to be dreaming!” shouted Lightning.

Twilight and the animals were most relieved. “I thought they were…” Spike said, but he was cut off by Krysta, “Don’t say it… just don’t say it!”

The rangers all felt as relieved as well as they flew away. If they hadn’t separated the megazord just before the attack hit, they would have been destroyed for sure.

“We better get back to base.” said Sunset.

The other rangers were so keen on retreating, but realizing they couldn’t stand up to Lightning while currently low on power, and without a plan.

“Hey… where are you going!” shouted Lightning!

“We’ll be back!” Sunset called “And if you’re still in there, Lightning, don’t worry, we’ll save you yet.”

The jets all flew away, and Twilight and the animals decided to retreat through a jump tube, leaving Lightning on his own and he roared at the skies in outrage.

Vulcan suddenly appeared as an image in the sky before him. “Calm yourself…!” he shouted. “The rangers may have escaped, but it is clear now there is nothing they actually do to stop us. You will now take the time to replenish your strength and power… and then, it will be time to destroy the city at last. My minions will join you when the time comes.”

“Understood sir…” Lightning complied.

Vulcan vanished and Lightning powered down, shrinking down to normal size, and un-morphed. Since he still had his morpher on him, the control codes kept him under the evil spell.

All he could do now was sit in the empty park near a fallen tree t rest and let his powers rest as well as he silently thought, “Enjoy this little reprieve while you can, Rangers. The next time we see each other I’ll not rest until I’ve destroyed each and every one of you!”

(Que Intro)

Back at the base, Celesto was relieved that the rangers were safe. “The zords aren’t too badly damaged. They’ll be ready in a couple of hours.”

The rangers, however, didn’t seem so optimistic. “For all the good it’ll do.” Buddy said “That armor of Lightning’s, it almost completely clobbered us. I’ve never seen anything like it before.”

The others all felt the same, “I still can’t believe it’s all Lightning doing this to us.” said Sunset “And the fact that he’s actually a ranger makes it worse.”

“We’ve tried everything, but he just won’t see reason.” said Fluttershy.

Krysta felt maybe the rangers were giving up, but Celesto assured her, “We’re not giving up, Krysta. We’ll find some way to snap him out of that spell. We’ve got to.”

Everyone agreed, but they didn’t have any imedeatlet ideas of where to begin. They thought, long and hard, until Twilight suddenly remembered, “Of course… that’s it! Why did I think of this before?”

“What? What is it already?” Rainbow asked rather impatiently.

Twilight immediately dashed to the computer and pulled up all the current knowledge and information they had about Lightning’s Comet Ranger powers, and while there was still so much to study and understand, the one thing she and the others knew was that Vulcan created the powers using the very codes and programs he had stolen from Twilight’s computer.

“It doesn’t matter how sophisticated Vulcan tries to make it, it’s still our design codes and figures.”

The rangers and the animals just gawked at her as if they didn’t understand, and were asking her to be blunt. “I think we can neutralize the codes in the morpher and jam it, which will stall the powers and make Lightning easier to face.”

“A neutralizer…” Celesto murmured “It sounds logical enough… Let’s speak Professor Brain about this.”

They team all agreed and went to the professor at once with their idea.

“A neutralizer…?” he asked with interested “Yes, it is quite feasible, but even if I were to begin now, it would take quite few hours to create a successful machine. These electronics and pulse-machinery and quite delicate you know.”

“Well, what are we waiting for?
We can’t delay a second more.” said Rhymey.

The others all agreed, and offered to help as best as they could, and soon, everyone was hard at work, passing tools, welding, programing codes, testing the electronic beams…

While at the same time, Vulcan’s team was preparing for their big battle as well. The three minions and a swarm of Lingos were just about ready to depart.

“You all know what to do?” Vulcan asked.

“YES SIR!” the minions all hollered together.

“We all march to Mystic Island…” said Marla.

“We start out with a small attack to draw the rangers out…” added Bronc.

“…Then I come in with these three Fortissimo mugics to make us grow.” said Keto.

Vulcan snickered, feeling ultimate victory was assured. “With all of our best forces out there, and the Comet Ranger by our side… Today Mystic Island… Tomorrow… THE WORLD…!!”

Everyone cheered as evil music filled the air and Vulcan began to sing.

[Vulcan]

With my strength and my might, I had conquered so many
And the profits had made me rich as can be
Many did face me and fail, I could hear the screaming and wail
But then one day, imagine what happened to me!

I was captured by Starfleet and tossed into prison
(Oooo-Waaa-Oooo)
As the centuries passed I was ever so bored
(Oooo-Waaa-Oooo)
Now at long I’ve set free, to continue to my terror with glee
To conquer and claim is my big reward!

[Everyone Else]

With your strength and the might, evil will guide you.
With your strength and the might, tables will turn
(Oooo-Oooo-Oooo)

[Vulcan]

Erase my each foe
And the profits will glow.

(With your strength and the might)

…They’ll all Burn!

Everyone cheered and hollered again.

[Vulcan]

I can see all the glory and power that awaits me
The rangers end and their worlds destruction is near
Once I conquer this little place, I’ll expand right out into space
And rule the universe with strength… and fear!

[Everyone Else]

With your strength and the might, terror will make you
(“Terror’s a game I know well”)
With your strength and the might, evil will call!
(Oooo-Oooo-Oooo)

[Vulcan]

My friends by my side,
It’ll be one sweet ride!

(With your strength and the might)

…Earth will fall!

[Everyone Else]

With your strength and the might, evil will guide you.
(“Terror’s a game I know well”)
With your strength and the might, darkness will shine
(Oooo-Oooo-Oooo)

[Vulcan]

I’ve planned long and hard,
Now I hold all the cards

(With your strength and the might…
With your strength and the might…!)

Now, my minions, I as your master,
Send you on your way

(With your strength and the might…
With your strength and the might…!)

Crush the rangers, go ever faster.

(With your strength and the might…
With your strength and the might…
With your strength and the might…!)

…THEY WILL PAY!!!

Vulcan laughed loud and maliciously as his forces went on their way!

Lightning was still resting in the park, and suddenly, his eyes snapped open and he bolted up onto his feet. “The time has come…” he hissed. “The city is ours!”

The minions and the Lingos arrived within the city, frightening all the people nearby with their presence. The people ran off in panic, other even abandoned their cars and ran away on foot.

“Let’s party!” shouted Keto.

“I’m all for that!” giggled Marla.

“Let’s go!” said Bronc, and off they all went, smashing up cars, blasting the buildings, and when the police showed up and tried to stop the villains, they were easily overpowered and frightened away.

At the base, the alarm sounded…

Celesto typed into the computer, “It’s happened…” he said as he viewed the images of the aliens attacking all over the major part of the city. There was no sign of Lightning anywhere though. “Is that neutralizer ready yet?”

“I’m afraid not…” replied Professor Brain “I would estimate another hour at the most and it should be completed.”

“We can’t wait that long.” said Sunset. “Yeah, the city needs us now.” added Buddy.

The other rangers agreed, and even Celesto had to agree.

“We’ll do what we can here…” said Twilight “We’ll get the neutralizer to you as soon as it’s done.”

With that settled, it was time the rangers left, and they head straight for the jump tubes, but stopped at the last few and stood in a line. “This is a big one, guys.” said Sunset “You all ready?”

Buddy nodded in response.

“Ah, yeah…” said Rainbow “Let’s get in there and kick those whacko’s butts back to Vulcan.”

“Nothing to it,
but to do it.” added Rhymey.

“Um… ready…” peeped Fluttershy.

“Well, what are we waiting for?” said Sunset “It’s Morphin’ Time!”

“STARFLEET MAGIC… POWER ON!!”

Once morphed, they were on their way, flying through the series of tube-lines, and they arrived in deep within the city, in the middle of a big mess. Cars were turned over, bits of debris lay about, small fires were burning…

“Whoa…! Look at all this.” said Buddy.

“Oh, my, gosh!” cried Fluttershy “How could they do all this to our town?”

“We’ll show you how…!” Bronc shouted, and though he was not seen, several shots blasted near the rangers’ feet, and suddenly the minions and their vast swarm of Lingos popped out from all over.

“Welcome, Rangers…” Marla taunted them “Welcome to your final battle ever.”

“Ha!” scoffed Sunset “They always say that.”

“And then they always end up eating those words.” added Rainbow.

Keto snickered, “But this time will be quite different.”

“Yep, they always say that too.” Buddy mocked.

“Enough with this idle small talk!” snarled Bronc, and he called to the Lingos “…GET THEM!!”

“Go guys!” shouted Sunset, and she and the rangers rushed into battle with their weapons in hand.

A Lingo lunged at Sunset, and she ducked down so the foe leapt right over her. Sunset proceeded to hit another over the head with her scepter, and kick two more down.

Buddy cracked his whip skillfully knocking one down, flipping one by the ankle, and lassoing three together forcefully so they bonked heads and fell down flat. “These guys never learn.”

Rainbow shot her cannon once, then again, blasting every Lingo that came at her down flat. Then, she turned and one stared right at her, snarling furiously.

“Here, hold this.” Rainbow said as she handed the creature her cannon, which it took in confusion. “Now take this!” shouted Rainbow and she punched the Lingo hard knocking it down and taking back her cannon. “Sucker...”

Rhymey, wielding his sword skillfully, hacked his way through each every Lingo that came at him.

“I see London…

I see France…

I see you knocked right from your stance!”

More Lingos charged at him, but Fluttershy leapt right in. “No one attacks my boyfriend!” she shouted, and she charged up her shield.

“Strong Shield… Engage!”

She then fired a huge burst of power from her shield straight at the Lingos, blowing them all to ash in a massive explosion.

“Oh, my…!
Well done, Fluttershy.” said Rhymey.

His girlfriend trembled softly. It still amazed her that her shield was capable of such power, but now was no time to act timid.

“You won’t beat us so easily!” Keto sneered, “Many of my mugics may not work on you, but I can still attack with them! Song of Ember Nova!”

“Watch out!” Sunset shouted as fireballs pelted down from above, forcing the rangers to scatter about to avoid getting hit. That’s when all three minions lunged at them and began to brawl.

Marla took on Rhymey and Fluttershy… but Marla seemed rather faster and slicker this time, the way she blocked and dodged all their attacks… “We’ve spent a little time training for this fight.”

Rhymey growled and made a lunge for her from behind, intending to slash at her hair with his sword, only for Marla to actually ensnared him by the leg with her long threads and toss him hard into Fluttershy “Not this, you don’t!”

Buddy and Rainbow were attacking Keto.

Rainbow fired a shot from her cannon, but Keto batted the blast back with his staff, hitting her hard. Then Buddy lunged for him, cracking his whip like crazy, and actually snaring his staff, but Keto pulled hard yanking the whip away and bashed and kicked Buddy hard making sparks fly.

This left Sunset to face Bronc alone, and naturally, though she put up a valiant effort, she couldn’t get at him too well. He blocked her every attack with his big fists, and this left her wide open for his eye-beams. He blasted her far off and sent her rolling along the ground.

“Face it, Power Pest…” sneered Bronc “You and your team are finished.”

Sunset bolted up right and declared, “We’re not nearly ready to give in. There’s still only three of you guys anyway.”

“You mean four…!” hissed a voice, Sunset turned and saw Lightning, morphed, and just as he blasted her with his Comet Trail, knocking her over in huge explosion.

“Sunset!” shouted Buddy as he and the others ran over to help her up. “Are you alright?” asked Rainbow.

“Just barely.” replied Sunset.

The rangers eyed the four villains down.

“About time you showed up!” Marla sneered to Lightning.

Lightning glared at her through his helmet and grunted, but didn’t bother respond.

Sunset contacted the base and asked if the neutralizer was finished yet.

“I’m afraid not...” replied Professor Brain “We require a bit more work.”

“You hear that guys?” asked Twilight “Just give us a little longer.”

Krysta could only look at the monitors helplessly as the rangers and the villians stared each other down. “Lightning…!” she peeped softly.

All Spike could do was softly comfort her by patting her head with his paw “It’ll be alright. I know it will be.”

“This is your one chance, rangers…” Lightning shouted “Surrender willingly while we still have some patience and spare yourselves intense agony of destruction!”

“Never!” snapped Sunset “If anything, it’s you creeps who should give up!” The other rangers all agreed with her and stood strong and proud…

“WRONG ANSWER!!” snarled Lightning, and he fired another blast of his Comet Trail!

The rangers scattered and avoided the blast.

“Let’s try out Able Boost!” suggested Fluttershy.

“Right…” agreed Sunset “Activate!”

“Able Boost Mode… Engage!”

The rangers all stood, glowing and pumped up.

“Ha! I was ready for this…” hissed Keto, and he cast a mugic over himself and his comrades, “Surge Song!”

All the villains were suddenly glowing just like the rangers. Their speeds and strengths had increased as well.

“What do you say now, rangers? Still think you can beat us?”

“Okay… this should be interesting… I guess.” said Rainbow.

“Let’s get ‘em!” shouted Buddy, and into action they dashed… the villains did the same.

What a brawl it was, with both teams super charged in strength and speed, it seemed anyone’s fight. Sparks and explosions flew as attacks were exchanged.

The rangers, and villains all rushed towards each other like jousting knights… and crashed into one other in a huge explosion.

The villains and the rangers were thrown down opposite ends of the street, and as the all struggled to their feet, the rangers’ one-minute ran out and their lost their able-boost. Fortunately, the villains lost their edge too for the mugic’s effect was only temporary as well.

“Not bad, rangers. Not bad at all.” teased Marla, and then she glared at Keto for him to Do it!

“I think our problems are about to get bigger!” said Buddy, and he was right as Keto cast the three Fortissimo mugics, and all three of the minions grew into giants.

“My turn!” hissed Lightning, and he pressed his morpher badge with both hands and shouted “GIGANTIFY…!” which made him grow huge as well.

The rangers gazed up fearful at the four hulking creeps as they gazed down at them laughing wickedly. “Take a good long look, rangers…!” Bronc thundered “We’ll be the last creatures you ever see… as we crush your precious island… and then, the world!”

“Not if we have anything to say of it!” shouted Sunset “Launch Star Jets!”

“Summon Zords!”

The star jets were launched and well on their way.

Celesto spoke to the rangers, “Listen carefully. The neutralizer is almost ready, but we still need a bit more time. Don’t form the megazord just yet and conserve what power you have if things get really serious.”

“Got it…” replied Sunset “Let’s go, guys.” and she and the rangers beamed into their jets flying right past the minions. “Hey, watch it!” shouted Marla.

“Spread out!” Sunset called to the others, and the jets flew off in different directions.

Bronc fired his eye-beams nearly hitting Rhymey and Fluttershy.

Keto swung his staff at Rainbow Dash.

Marla nearly grabbed Buddy’s jet in her hair.

Meanwhile, Lightning and Sunset stared each other down.

“No holding back this time!” said Lightning “You’re going down one way or another.”

“I’m sorry it has to be this way, Lightning, but I can’t let you destroy the city.” said Sunset “Fire lasers!”

She fired her shots, which Lightning blocked with his arms criss-crossed in front. He swung his fist at Sunset as she flew past and missed her. “Dodge all you like, ranger! You can’t avoid me forever!”

“Missiles, Fire!” shouted Rainbow, and she launched two torpedoes, which Keto avoided “Nice try, you…” and he swung his staff hard, just barely missing the jet, but caused it to tumble about.

“Whoa!” Rainbow cried as she fought for control.

Marla and Bronc laughed in amusement.

“This is too much fun…” said Marla.

Three star jets-- Rhymey, Fluttershy and Buddy-- charged at them. “Oh, yeah…?!” sneered Bronc as he fired his eye-beams.

Sparks and explosions flashed all around the jets, rocking the poor rangers about in their cockpits.

“This isn’t working!” cried Fluttershy.

“They’re all real tough,
Our jets aren’t strong enough!” added Rhymey.

All the rangers were starting to think maybe it best they form the megazord, but no one could really decide.

“Here, why don’t I decide for you…” hissed Lightning “Comet Striker… Armor Up!”

He summoned his cosmic armor, and was soon all powered up and raring to go.

The minions all snickered, feeling assured of their victory.

“I guess we don’t have a choice now.” said Buddy.

Sunset was inclined to agree, “Okay, guys… bring it together!”

“Zords Combine!”

“Jet Star Megazord… Ready!”

Marla laughed and mocked, “Oh, that’s real smart; huddling all together make an easier target for us. You might as well wear a sign that says “Destroy Us Now!”

“We’ll see about that!” growled Sunset. She then whispered to the others, “You guys know what do to?”

The others nodded in acknowledgement, and all the rangers armed their stations.

The megazord drew its saber.

“Come on!” Keto snarled as he lunged forth for a punch, but he missed. Then Bronc and Marla dove in, and each hit the megazord hard making sparks fly.

“My turn!” shouted Lightning, as he drew out his blades and engaged in a big brawl with the megazord.

The rangers fought valiantly, and managed to land a few good strikes, but three minions leapt in and mercilessly struck the megazord hard, each time more forceful than the last.

“Damage meter’s racing!” cried Rainbow.

“We’ll be blown to bits!” squealed Fluttershy.

“Easy guys... just a little longer!” Sunset called

The battle continued, and the rangers were really getting creamed by the villains. That’s when Vulcan himself appeared, standing on a high-rise roof. He didn’t want to miss the end of the rangers for anything.

“This is going greater than I ever could have planned.” he snickered to himself, and he called out to his minions, “Finish them off!”

The minions and Lighting all agreed as they surrounded the Megazord laughing and snickering.

“You have the honors…” Bronc said to Lightning. The others agreed.

“It will be my pleasure.” said Lightning, and he charged up his blades for the kill. “It’s been fun, Rangers…!

“Super-Space-Strike!”

“Now!” shouted Sunset, and the rangers all pulled together and made the megazord flop down onto its chest, causing Lightning to miss and head straight for the minions.

“WATCH OUT!!” cried Keto. Lightning tried to skid to a halt, but he had already struck his fellow minions hard, making sparks and explosion fly like crazy, and the minions fell off their feet… they were not destroyed as Lightning hadn’t hit them too hard.

“What are you doing?!” shouted Vulcan.

Lightning was at a loss for words and stood in shock, but his comrades were furious. “What are you trying to do?!” shouted Marla.

“It wasn’t my fault…” Lightning protested.

“Yeah, like this isn’t mine?!” sneered Keto and he shoved Lightning hard.

“Hey!” snarled Lightning.

“Hey, yourself!” jeered Bronc.

The rangers were quit amused seeing the villians argues with one another, but Vulcan was furious and flared up. “ENOUGH…!!!” he shouted as he fired powerful flaring waves at the four villains. “FIGHT THE RANGERS… NOT YOURSELVES!!”

The villains pulled themselves together and lunged at megazord again.

“Here they come…!” cried Sunset.

Suddenly, a beam of light shot at Lightning from the streets below.

“What now?!” shouted Bronc.

The rangers all turned and saw Twilight standing in the streets, with Spike and Krysta by her side, and large transmitter-like box the size of an office garbage can, beaming the light onto Lightning.

“What’s happening?!” cried Lightning “Let me go!!”

“Come on, just a little more…!” cried Twilight.

“NOOOOO!!!” shouted Lightning as he was engulfed in a bright flash, and the Comet Striker was gone.

Lightning, now un-morphed lay face-down in the street. Twilight dashed over to him and helped him onto his feet. “The neutralizer worked!” cried Spike.

Lightning let out a soft groan. He felt very dizzy. “What’s… happening…?”

“Oh, Lightning…! Thank goodness you’re alright!” cried Krysta.

Vulcan flared up and roared like the inferno blaze in his hair. “I DON’T BELIEVE THIS!!”

“Whoa! Let’s get out of here!” cried Twilight and she and Lightning dashed off with the animals for safety.

“Oh, no you don’t!” shouted Vulcan, as he leapt off the roof right in front of them all. “You are my ranger… and no one will take you from me!” he snarled.

With Lightning’s morpher jammed, and he himself too weak to fight, he and the others were in real danger.

The rangers saw this and Sunset decided to go down and help. “Can you guys manage without me?”

“We’ll beat these scums,
Go help our chums.” said Rhymey.

The other nodded in agreement, and Sunset leapt out of the cockpit to the ground below, just as Vulcan was getting ready to blast them all…

“Vulcan…!” shouted Sunset. She grabbed her scepter and pointed it straight at him, “Back off!”

“Why don’t you make me!” shouted Vulcan. He extended his claws and roared, flaring up.

Sunset roared and charged at him. She punched and kicked at him, but he blocked her every attack and slashed her hard, making a small explosion rather than a few sparks.

“SUNSET!!” the others called.

“I’m alright, just get out of here!”

Heeding her advice the others ran for it and Sunset bolted upright and glared Vulcan down. “How pitiful!” he mocked “Now you’ll be destroyed without any witnesses to mourn you!”

Deeply offended, Sunset lunged at him, brawling more fiercely than ever before.

Meanwhile, the other rangers stared the three minions down. Their eyes were blazing with determination behind their helmets!

“Let’s get ‘em!” shouted Bronc, the others agreed, and they all lunged forth growling and snarling, attacking the megazord, but the rangers managed to fight valiantly, even without Sunset with them.

The megazord swung its saber, block the minions every attack lunged at them, and then managed to successfully slash each one of them hard, sending them rolling along the grounds.

“Alright!” Rainbow cheered.

“We’ve got them on the ropes!” added Buddy.

The minions tried to get up, but the megazord gave them a huge Star Slash, making massive explosions and knocking them all down again, but unlike most monsters, they were still much stronger and weren’t captured.

As for Sunset, Vulcan, being the big bad villain he was, proved to be extremely merciless! The way he clawed, punched, and blasted at Sunset and sent her slamming hard into a wall.

Her power wouldn’t take much more and was already reaching critical points of shutdown!

Vulcan laughed maliciously, “Oh, how I missed moments like this. Your destruction shall be my very first in five-hundred years… the start of my new reign to conquering this planet!”

Angered by his words, Sunset bolted upright and shouted, “Never! As long as Me and my friends are around, you’ll never reach your goal!”

Vulcan snarled and fired a huge blast at her, but she dodged causing the blast to hit the wall instead making a huge explosion, but Sunset charged right for him…! “TIME… TO… SHINE!!!”

The two fought furiously, Sunset blocked Vulcan’s punches, and swerved out of the way as he tried to claw her, grabbing his overcoat and flinging it up over his head, blinding him for a split second, enough for Sunset to actually strike him with all she had.

Vulcan roared as he flipped over backwards.

While he was still stunned and regaining himself, “Star Scepter… Full power!” Sunset shouted, and she cranked up her scepter to Maximum Power.

“Star Scepter… Engage! Maximum Power…!”

(Skip to 2:10)

“…FIRE!!” She unleashed the biggest barrage of stars she had ever done, and as Vulcan looked up he saw the attack heading straight for him “NOOOOOOOO…!!”

KAPOW… A massive explosion in the streets!!

“VULCAN…!!!” the minions screamed!

Even the Rangers were flipped out from what they just saw!

Unfortunately, Vulcan had in fact not been hit, as he barely managed to teleport himself up onto another building roof. “A’RGH…!! WE’RE OUTTA HERE!! HURRY IT UP, YOU THREE!!!”

Heeding their master’s shout, the minions all teleported away, implying that they also had shrunk down. As for Vulcan, he shouted with all his might, “THIS IS NOT THE END, POWER RANGERS!! I’LL BE BACK!!!”

Then he was gone!

“We’ll be here and ready for you, Vulcan!” Sunset shouted, but really… she was relieved the battle was over, and all was safe again!

At the tower, the minions never felt so sore, so humiliated. Marla was even too sore and battered to complain!

Many of the locked up prisoners couldn’t help but mock and tease them.

“Look at the so-called minions now?”

“Makes me actually feel glad I’m locked up in here.”

“You guys couldn’t beat the rangers’ grandmothers!”

Their mocking earned them the ire of the angry minions, whom already threatened not to feed them for their insolence!

“Those rangers will pay dearly for this!” Bronc grumbled.

The others agreed, but Keto suddenly realized, “Where’s Vulcan?”

“I don’t know, and frankly right now, I’m too sore to care!” Marla groaned.

Vulcan had retreated to his private lab, furious of the serious blow he and his forces had suffered, and now Lightning was set free, which cost him a great deal of an edge. Regardless, he still had his one creation that still needed more work, but was safe nonetheless.

“The rangers are powerful adversaries… and getting stronger all the time.” he paused as he gazed at his creation… whatever it was “I shall have to make you stronger as well… if you shall ever be needed.”

Meanwhile, the sun had begun to set, and the rangers made it back to base feeling rather tired after such a battle, especially Sunset.

“I can’t believe you actually took on Vulcan by yourself.” said Fluttershy.

“Me either…” Sunset said as she rubbed her arm which still felt a little sore from getting slammed so much, “He’s a lot tougher than I thought. He could’ve destroyed me too.”

Celesto was very proud of her, and all the rangers, “But you did what you had to save our friends, and protect the city. Thank goodness not too much damage was caused.”

The rangers all agreed, but they were all very relieved that of all things, Lightning was now safe.

Speaking of whom, Lightning, after having a good rest in the medical ward, came into the main chamber, with Krysta perched on his shoulder, but he seemed a little downhearted though.

“Hey, how are you feeling?” Buddy asked.

“Oh, I feel much better…” replied Lightning “It’s just…” he paused for a good few moments, “Twilight… told me everything, and believe me, I don’t know where to begin. I tried to destroy all of you, and I nearly destroyed the city too… and believe me, I feel very ashamed. I just hope, somehow… you can all forgive me.”

“Your apology is not accepted.” Celesto said in a deep tone. Lightning hung his head low in shame, but Celesto then informed him “…You’re apologizing for something that isn’t your fault.”

“He’s right…” said Rainbow “Vulcan was controlling you, you can’t be held responsible.”

Rhymey nodded and said…

“Whatever Vulcan made you do,
That was not the real you
Your heart is pure, and your intentions are clean
Now do you understand what we mean?”

As Lightning gazed at all the honest faces staring at him, and the way Krysta smothered her little head against his face, he really didn’t know what to say.

“I have something for you…” Twilight said as she approached him, and held out the comet morpher badge. “I’ve unjammed it and reprogramed it to our frequency. It’s not as powerful as before, but it will serve you well.”

“Serve me well? Wait a minute… you’re not saying--” but one look of their serious faces told Lightning they did want him to join the team.

“Come on, you’re already a smooth fighter.” said Buddy.

“Yeah, and you always find yourself in huge situations.” added Rainbow “With this power you can do more than ever before and you won’t feel small compared to us.”

The others gave her a sharp look for having said that, “Feel Small.”

Sunset approached him, “The point is, if you fight by our side we will beat Vulcan, and keep the island and the world safe. Don’t you want that?”

Lightning thought deeply for a moment, “Well of course I want it… One of the main reasons I fight to save lives isn’t just because it happens, it’s so other people don’t have to share the kind of hard life I lived.”

He referred to how he lost his parents at a young age, and his childhood was spent struggling and working hard until Celesto found him and helped turn his life around.

“Will you join us, Lightning?” Sunset asked earnestly and extended her hand to him.

Seeing all the hope and encouragement everyone was showing him, and even by Krysta’s encouragement, Lightning smiled and took Sunset’s hand.

The others all smiled and approached to extend more handshakes, and Fluttershy hugged him, while Celesto smiled proudly “A new chapter is written in our fight against evil. Who’s up for dinner, it’s on me?”

Everyone cheered and rejoiced as they all went off.

“How do you feel, Lightning?” Krysta asked.

Lightning could only smile and say, “For the first time in a while, I feel alright.”

Episode 16: Dome Sweet Dome

EPISODE SIXTEEN

This was the day, this was really it. Celestia had finally gone into labor. She was rushed to the hospital immediately where she gave birth to two beautiful, healthy babies.

That day, long after school, the rangers, Lightning, Principal Cadance, Vice Principal Luna, and even Shining Armor had come to the hospital to see the new babies. Spike and Krysta had to stay hidden in Twilight’s knapsack as the hospital usually didn’t allow pets inside. Even Dr. Penny didn’t know they were present as she escorted the gang to Celestia’s room.

“Now remember, don’t stay too long. She needs her rest.” Penny told everyone. She also made them promised not to get all hyperactive and overly-excited… to which they all agreed.

They all arrived in Celestia’s room. Celestia, looking a bit pale and much flatter with her stomach no longer so swollen, lay in her bed, wearing her nightgown and in her arms she held a cute little baby boy wrapped in a blue blanket and wearing a little white tuque. Celesto sat next to her bed in a chair, holding a beautiful baby girl wrapped in a white blanket and wearing a yellow hat.

“Aw!” the girls cooed upon seeing the babies, and the boys grinned widely.

“Meet our son… Castor.” Celestia said as she held up her son. “And… our daughter… Leilani.” Celesto added as he held up the other baby.

“Oh, they’re beautiful.” Luna gushed as her niece and nephew looked up at her. “Absolutely adorable…!” Cadance added.

Everyone took turns looking at the babies. Luna and Cadance even got chances to hold them for a few moments.

“So petite,
and yet so sweet.” cooed Rhymey.

Buddyplaced a bunch of flowers he had brought for Celestia near a big pile of flowers and “Best Wishes” cards from other friends and co-workers already. “I see I’m not the only one.” he joked.

“We also got you these…” Shining Armor said holding up a small package of diapers. “We figured you may need them.”

Everyone couldn’t help but laugh, but it was still a nice gesture.

“What’s going on out there…?” Spike called from Twilight’s back. “Yeah, we wanna see!” Krysta called.

“Shh… keep it down, you two!” Twilight whispered “I’ll open up the zip, but you’ve got to stay down.”

She opened the zip of her knapsack just enough for the pets to see the babies, and despite their limited view they thought they were the cutest little things they ever saw… apart from themselves.

Lightning passed Leilani back to Celesto. “I’ve never seen you this happy. I’ve never seen anyone this happy before.”

“To be honest… I’ve never felt this happy either.” Celesto said, and he gazed at his wife with love, “Except at our wedding.”

Celestia agreed and she felt very content with the children in her life now and didn’t feel she could ask for another wonderful thing… except maybe one thing, the very same that everyone was feeling…!

That their friends would awake form their comas soon, but alas. The whole thing was still the same.

The friends were still laying in their bed in their ward a few halls down, still in their deep, deep sleep, nothing to do but wait until they woke.

Still, everyone knew this was a time for joy, not sadness.

Soon, Dr. Penny returned to inform the visitors they had to leave, and that included Celesto. The babies needed to be returned to the maternity ward to rest and Celestia needed rest as well.

“Can’t we just hold them a little longer?” Celestia asked.

“I’m afraid not…” replied Penny “I’ve already given you more than enough time. Trust me, you need your rest.”

“We should probably go anyway.” said Cadance, and she gazed at the students, “Some people still have school tomorrow.”

“Thanks for that reminder.” grumbled Rainbow.

“Bye-Bye, babies…” Fluttershy cooed.

“Congrats, to you both.” said Sunset to the proud parents. Celestia and Celesto smiled proudly, and then the gang left, but Celesto himself also had to leave.

He tenderly kissed his wife. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too.”

They were lost in each other’s eyes, both of them thinking the same thing; wanting to be good parents, and be there for one another as best they could.

“Ahem!” Dr. Penny said, and gave Celesto a thumb towards the door. With that, he had no choice but to leave.

(Que Intro)

The next day…

Marla was viewing images of Mystic Island on the monitors. She saw all the many people going about their lives; friends walking to school, friendly people at work, and even happy families out of with their very young children.

“Ugh’ll it makes me sick!” Marla groaned.

Bronc was not impressed with her supposed slacking and rude turned the monitors off.

“Hey!”

“Shouldn’t you be helping us come up with an idea to beat the rangers?” Bronc sneered.

“For your information, I was doing research.” protested Marla. “Ha! I’m sure you were!” scoffed Bronc. Marla angrily bolted up right, “Well I was, and it just so happens I’ve already got a plan!”

She stormed off for the prison floors, “And I know just the monster to help me do it.”

Bronc followed her to the monster cell, and Keto was already there and he opened the cell releasing a creature with a huge spherical dome-like head, and he wore what seemed like a green private soldier’s outfit. Atop his head was a blue dome shaped crystal… the very source of his special power.

“Kazam! Domer Style reportin’ fer duty, but y’all can call me just Domer.”

Keto and Bronc were hardly amused and even snickered. “This Dome-Face is your plan?” Keto chuckled “What’s he going to do, make the rangers laugh silly?”

“Humph!” grunted Marla, “Show them!”

Domer nodded and the dome gem on his head began to glow. Almost instantly then, a large dome had appeared entrapped the boys.

“Hey! Let us out of here!” shouted Bronc. He and Keto pounded on the glass, only to be shocked by powerful energy.

“Uh-Uh-Uhn… y’all mustn’t touch.” Domer teased “My domes ain’t no ordinary domes, and one yer in, you don’t come out without my say so.”

Marla giggled at how silly her comrades looked, trapped in the dome.

“Marla!” Vulcan called from behind. She turned sharply and quivered, “M-M-Master… I…”

Vulcan grinned and said, “I like your idea. It reminds me of a business saying; sometimes you have to force your opponents’ hands.”

Marla smirked and thanked him for the remark, “Trust me, Master; the rangers are as good as dome-bait.”

The three of them all walked off leaving Bronc and Keto still trapped. “Hey, wait!” cried Keto “Don’t leave us here!”

Bronc growled angrily “I’ll get you for this, Marla!” and he pounded the dome again, only to be thrown back by the jolts once more.

At school, all that day the rangers could only seem to think about the new babies, and how Celestia and Celesto’s lives would be changed.

“Imagine how they must be…” Rainbow teased “Waking up in the middle of the night, changing diapers, listening to all that crying non-stop.”

“Rainbow, they haven’t even brought them home yet.” Sunset reminded her. “Celestia won’t be discharged for another day or two.”

Fluttershy sighed heavenly, “I still think it’s wonderful they have the kids now. I think it’s the most wonderful thing that can happen to a couple.”

Rhymey agreed…

“The pitter-patter of feet so small,
Watching them grow up and learn to crawl,
Then to be heard their very first word.
Children can really be most wondrous of all.”

The way the two of them were acting so bashful and happy, Buddy couldn’t help but tease, “Don’t you two think you ought to get married first before you have kids?”

Fluttershy and Rhymey nodded in a daze, but suddenly realized what they just said and snapped back into reality. Both of them felt really embarrassed and turned away from each other.

The others couldn’t help but giggle at how cute and funny they seemed.

…Of course deep down, Rhymey and Fluttershy still thought it a neat idea.

“I wonder what Grandruler’s thinking about it right now?” Sunset wondered.

Indeed, all day long, all Celesto could think about were his children making it extremely hard to concentrate at business meetings, talking on the phone with associates from overseas, and every few minutes or so he would think of calling the hospital to check on his wife and babies, but he was already told they were just fine at the start of the day when he first called in, and he had much faith in the hospital staff.

He felt most relieved when he finally got a break and decided to head straight to the hospital to visit his children and his wife. Along the way, he sat cozily in the back seat of his limo looking at the pictures taken with his phone.

Suddenly, the driver slammed hard on the breaks screeching the limo to a halt. “What is it?” Celesto asked rather sternly.

“There’s a strange obstruction up ahead, Sir.” replied the driver.

Celesto looked on ahead and saw a large dome-like object right in the middle of the intersection, with many cars trapped inside it.

Suddenly there appeared another dome on the sidewalks trapping the people inside. Then more domes appeared trapping more people inside.

Celesto and his driver jumped out of the limo, and Celesto began to have a nasty feeling of what was causing this.

That’s when a dome appeared and trapped himself, his driver and all the traffic near them inside, and Domer walked casually in the streets

“Kazam! Perfect catches for Domer Style!” he cackled “Now y’all be behavin’ yerselves, or so help me, I can get pretty nasty!”

“I’ve got to warn the rangers!” Celesto said to himself, but he suddenly found that his cell-phone had no signal, and his emergency communicator with the rangers was blocked out.

His driver picked up a rock, and threw it against the walls of the dome where it got vaporized by the electrical field. “I believe we are truly trapped, sir.”

“Gee... what was your first clue?” Celesto mumbled to himself.

Meanwhile, Celestia had just woken up from another nap and was reading some of her favorite magazines in bed. She wanted to see the babies again, but was informed that they were sleeping in the maternity ward, and best not to be awakened.

Her husband had also not arrived yet either like he promised he would.

“Ugh! I’ve never been so bored in my life!” she grumbled as she put down her magazine, and flicked on the TV to the horse-racing network, which brought on a lot of good memories of her glory days as a champion horse jumper.

Suddenly, the show changed to an emergency news broadcast, showing the many strange domes that had appeared throughout the city.

“Citizens and their vehicles are reported trapped within these domes.” the reporter said “Any and all attempts to free the citizens have been fruitless as the domes seem to be charged with some wild electrical force.”

The camera then focused in on one of the domes, and Celestia could see right through it-- her heart skipped a beat-- “Celesto…!” she cried. Then things got worse as she saw Domer appear on TV as well and that he was the cause of the domes as he made more appear and trapped more innocent citizens.

With her husband trapped and the city in danger, “I must contact the rangers!” Celestia said, but she immediately realized she didn’t have her cell-phone, as it was the hospital rule-- No Cell-Phones allowed.

Luckily, she had an alternate plan, and buzzed for the nurse.

“Yes, can I help you?” the lady asked.

Celestia slyly made up a small story to hide that she was involved with the Power Rangers. “Could you please make a phone call to Canterlot High? Ask for Vice Principal Luna and inform her: “Project Color Kids Is Needed Now?”

The nurse seemed baffled, “I don’t think I understand…”

“Please, just tell her that. She’ll understand.”

“Yes, Ma’am…”

Celestia hoped the rangers would receive the message soon! “Celesto…!”

Vice Principal Luna received her sister’s message, and deciphered what was really needed. “What’s happening?” asked Principal Cadance.

“Trouble…!” her aunt replied “We must get the rangers here at once, but we must not let any other students know of our connections.”

Luckily, the bell rang for a class change, and the ladies saw this as their chance. They ran from the office, and rounded up the rangers and Twilight from different corners of the school and brought them back to the main office.

They had to make things quick before the period ended, since Twilight didn’t have the same privilege as the rangers to cut class.

The ladies explained what they had learned from Celestia’s message, about the electrified-domes, and how Celesto along with a good number of citizens were trapped.

“That’s how it is…” said Luna “Celestia told me as much herself.”

“Oh, all those poor people!” cried Fluttershy, “And especially Mr. Grandruler. What if he gets hurt? Think of the babies!”

The rangers agreed that they had to rush into action.

Twilight did some calculations on her laptop regarding the domes from their alien signals. “They seem to be a combination of electrical and heat based energies, the nearest I can figure is… maybe… just maybe the domes can be overloaded if you get caught.”

“Well, that’s good to know.” said Sunset. “Let’s go, guys.”

The others agreed and prepared to leave, “Wait a minute…!” said Rainbow, halting everyone, “What about Lighting? Shouldn’t he come with us?”

Cadance just got off the phone with Shining Armor at Crystal Prep Academy, “It’s no good, Lightning’s teaching his History Class, he can’t just up and leave like that, but he promised to try to get him to answer as soon as he could.”

Spike found that ridiculous, “Teaching a class is more important than saving the city? That is super Ridick!” he grumbled, but Cadance reminded him, “Spike, the students at CPA don’t know Lightning is the Comet Ranger. In fact, no one outside our group knows.

If people find out that could lead to trouble and inconvenience from unwanted attention.”

The rangers all agreed and realized it was for the best, at least until they could figure out something else.

“Come on, let’s go!” said Sunset, and she and the rangers dashed out. The bell rang too meaning it was time for class. “Whoa! I’m going to be late!” cried Twilight and she rushed off nearly forgetting her book-bag.

Meanwhile, there were domes all over the place and so many people were trapped inside and trying fruitlessly to free themselves, but the electrical force-fields around the domes were too strong.

Celesto was starting to get edgy, worrying about his wife and kids at the hospital, but just as worried for the city as well.

Domer was also growing impatient “Dagnabit, where’re them rangers? Consarnit, ya want someone’s attention and even a big scam don’t get ‘em goin’.”

“Don’t wait any longer!” Sunset shouted as she and the rangers, morphed, came into view.

Celesto was most relieved to see they had arrived, as were many others.

“Well, golly gee… y’all showed up after all.” said Domer. The rangers prepared to rush forth, but Domer stopped them, “I wouldn’t be going there… if I was you, Lessin’ you wanna be hurtin’ these city-folk of yers.”

Before anyone could question him, his gem dome atop his head glowed again, and all the domes magically began to constrict a few inches. Some of the people inside were forced to back away from the closing walls.

“The domes, they’re getting smaller!” cried Buddy.

“That’s right…” teased Domer, “And they’re gonna keep on doin’ that unless your surrender. If ya don’t… well, y’all get the idea.” He laughed wickedly as the domes continued to inch smaller and smaller.

The people inside began to panic and cry out to the rangers to help them.

“We’ve got to try to get them out of there!” cried Fluttershy.

“But how… There are domes everywhere.” rhymed Rhymey.

“And here’s another…!” shouted Domer as he launched another dome, trapping the rangers inside.

“Careful, don’t touch the walls.” said Sunset.

Domer didn’t make their dome shrink and was merely using it as a method to force them to watch the citizens suffer unless they agreed to surrender. “Clock’s a-ticking, rangers. Either you surrender, or them folks will be squashed like grapes in a grinder. Either way, I win, you lose.”

He laughed again, which greatly annoyed the rangers, but the other domes were growing smaller every second… inch-by-inch.

Suddenly, the rangers noticed on Domer’s head. “That gem, I think that’s what’s powering up the domes.” said Buddy.

“Yeah, but first we have to break out of here.” Rainbow pointed out.

Remembering what Twilight had calculated on her computer, Sunset suggested, “Get your weapons out, we’ll try and blast out way out of here.”

Everyone agreed and got their weapons out, setting them on low power to start. “Ready? Fire…!”

All the weapons fired powerful energy blasts together, striking the wall of the dome. The electrical energy however was still too strong for the power to break through. “Set it higher.” said Sunset.

The rangers recharged their weapons and fired again. Still nothing…! They recharged and fired one last time, and finally the dome shattered.

“Alright!” cried Buddy. “That did it!” added Rainbow, and the slapped each other a high-five, but joy was short-lived as another dome appeared around the rangers. “Sorry, slickers, y’all don’t all don’t get it that easy.” Domer teased them “Break just one of my domes, and I’ll just lock ya in another. Kazam!”

The rangers knew they were in trouble now, having not expected this. All the other domes continued to shrink down, and time was running short for the people inside.

Meanwhile, Lightning was just wrapping up his class. “Please read chapters one through five for tomorrow, you will be tested on the subjects.”

The bell rang.

“Class Dismissed.”

The students all filed out, some even dropped off their completed assignments at the teacher’s desk.

Once the class room was completely emptied, Shining Armor came in to take over Lightning’s next class. “You better get going…” he said.

Lightning nodded, and he quickly dashed out the door and left the building, stepping round behind the school where no one would see him.

He took his morpher badge out from his jacket pocket and clipped it onto to the front of his shirt.

“Psst… Lightning…!” Krysta chirped. Lightning looked up and saw heard perched in the tree and he asked where the rangers were. “I’ll lead you there.”

Lightning nodded and readied himself, “It’s Morhpin’ time!”

“Morphing Sequence… Ready!”

“Cosmic Comet… Power On!”

His morphing scene was naturally different from the others; He would back flip onto a small comet and surf through a meteor shower. Another comet would crash into him donning his suit, and then a small one would hit his face, donning his helmet.

One morphed, he felt along the wall or the secret alcove for the jump-tube, and found it. “Well, here goes something.” he said as he jumped in.

Krysta then flew off.

Meanwhile, the domes were growing smaller still. All the people trapped within the domes had to huddle together to keep away from the walls, and some even crawled back into their cars and the busses, but the space inside was running out every second as the domes continued to shrink.

Celesto was growing deeply concerned as he looked through the window of his limo. “Come on, Rangers… I know you can do this!”

Domer snickered wickedly “Whether or not them rangers surrender, I win regardless. They stay trapped, and I destroy their city-folk… and then the city.”

“We have to try and break out of here again.” said Sunset.

“But he’ll just trap us in anyway.” Fluttershy said.

“Maybe not this time…” Sunset said, and she whispered her idea to the others. “Hey, it just may work.” said Buddy.

“What are we waiting for?
Let’s give it our all and more.” said Rhymey.

Instead of all huddling together in one place, each ranger stood at a different area making five points around the dome and charged up their weapons again.

“Fire!” shouted Sunset, and the weapons blasted at the dome, shattering it again.

“Dagnab… they never learn.” sneered Domer, he was about to conjure another dome.

“Now!” shouted Sunset and she and the rangers all scattered about in different directions just as the dome formed, so none of them got trapped inside.

“Oh, yeah!” shouted Domer “If’n you’re all thinking ya can all get away, ya got another thing comin’.”

“Maybe not…!” Lightning shouted, and he came leaping in and kicked Domer hard sending him rolling along the ground.

“It’s Lightning…!” cried Rainbow.

“Sorry, I’m late… class and all.”

Domer angrily got up, “Looks like I’m’a needin’ me some back up! Lingos…!”

A swarm of Lingos appeared.

“Let’s take ‘em out!” shouted Sunset “But watch out for Domer. Don’t let him catch you.”

The rangers agreed and rushed into action, punching, kicking and blasting through the many Lingos that came at them.

Lightning sure got a kick out of his first ever battle as a true ranger. “Excuse me… Pardon me…” he joked as he punched, kicked and tripped up every Lingo in his way. “Man, I’m liking this.”

More Lingos came at him.

“I think it’s time for a little comet power.” Lightning said, and pressed on his morpher which triggered off his special attack,

“Comet Gauntlets… Engage!”

His gloves glowed brightly, “Comet Trail… Fire!” and he unleashed his power on the swarm, blowing them all to ashes.

More Lingos huddled around Sunset, and she found herself surrounded and finding it hard to fight them all off herself,

The other rangers saw her and rushed over to help.

“Take this…!” shouted Domer, and he trapped the four of them within another dome.

“Oh,
…no!” cried Rhymey.

“Not again!” added Buddy “Our weapons don’t have much power left. We can’t risk using any more.”

“What do we do now?” asked Rainbow.

“Oh, no… guys!” Sunset called, but she still couldn’t’ help them with the Lingos still in her way.

Domer laughed at her, “Too bad little red, now it’s yer turn to join us in the dome-house.”

He was about to trap her when…

“Oh, no you don’t! …Comet Trail, Fire!”

Lightning unleashed another blast from his gloves, blowing Domer down to the ground again. “Mama… talk about yer hotspots!”

Lightning then fired another shot at the dome, freeing the rangers.

“Alright, Lightning!” Rainbow called.

“Thanks a bundle, man!” added Buddy.

Lightning nodded and then leapt over to help Sunset, knocking the Lingos away from her “Okay, you punks… get ready!” he shouted as he leapt at the swarm.

Sunset knocked the last Lingo off of her and her friends dashed over. “Are you alright?” asked Fluttershy.

“I’m fine…” she said, “Lightning come on…” she called to him, but Lightning turned and called back “…I’ll cover you!”

The others agreed and left him to beat off the last of the Lingos.

Domer got up from the street and brushed himself off, “Alright… I guess we do this the old fashioned way!”

The rangers all rushed him trying to attack him, but while he didn’t look like it, he was pretty slick and sly as he swerved and dodged every attack and hit the rangers with huge punches. “Let’s put our heads together, now…” he joked as he gave sunset a huge bashed of his head and sent her rolling along.

As she got up, she heard the trapped people screaming for help, and she saw the domes were nearly small enough to start crushing them.

Domer laughed at the screaming civilians, “Look at it this way, girl…” he said to Sunset “At least your de-mise will be quick and easy.”

He was ready to strike her down, when Fluttershy leapt in and blocked him with her shield, and then repelled him off hard. “Leave my friend alone!” she shouted at the monster.

“Why you little…!”

Domer was about to attack, when Buddy and Rhymey leapt in and began to attack with their weapons, each striking him hard and making Sparks fly.

“Go…
Rainbow!” shouted Rhymey.

Domer turned and saw Rainbow aim her cannon straight at him, “Say Cheese!” she teased and fired a huge blast, hitting Domer hard and breaking the dome gem on his head. “No! My dome controller…!”

With his gem cracked and sparking, all the domes lost their power and just shattered, vanished, into bits and freeing all the people.

The crowds cheered for joy at their freedom, and Celesto felt extremely relieved that he almost hugged his driver, but stopped himself and the two men exchanged a simple handshake instead.

Lightning then pounded the last Lingo and sent it away, vaporized to dust, “So much for those guys.”

As for the other rangers, they all stood together. “Let’s do it…” said Sunset “Star-Slammer, now!”

“Weapons Combine!”

“Star-Slammer… Ready!”

“Huh? Uh-Oh!” cried Domer.

“STAR-SLAMMER… ULTRA-STRIKE!”

The Star Slammer was flung, and slammed over Domer. His body began to flare up… but just as he was about to explode…

Marla shouted for Keto, “Do your thing!”

Although Keto, now free but still rather peeved from being trapped under the dome, he only complied if it meant to serve Vulcan.

“FORTISSIMO!!”

The mugic was launched and reached Mystic Island, and Domer grew to tremendous size. “Kazam! Domer Style’s been promoted!”

The rangers all winced in shock, and Sunset activated her morpher, “Star Jets… Combine!”

The jets were already on the scene and combining!

“Jet Star Megazord… Ready!”

Once the rangers beamed inside, Lightning saw his chance and activated his own morpher, “Gigantify… Go!”

“Giant Mode… Ready!”

With that, Lightning grew into a giant. “Yeah, that’s what I’m talking about!”

The megazord looked at Lightning and held up its fist like a salute.

Domer pounded on his head at his broken dome gem, and despite the damages, he actually managed to get a little power going. “YE-HAW… now we’re cookin’. Time to go Dome!”

With that, a large dome appeared around Lightning and the Megazord.

“Ah, he’s got us trapped again!” cried Sunset.

Then it got worse as Domer warned them, “This here ain’t no ordinary dome. I only use this for special O-cassions.” And he demonstrated by controlling the electrical field, and the rangers were pelted by bolts of lightning that shot from the walls.

“Whoa!” Lightning shouted as he was hit and fell over. The the megazord got hit several times. Sparks and explosion flew all over as the rangers were rocked about in their cockpit, and the megazord toppled over.

Domer leapt with glee outside the dome, “Face it, y’all are finished like Fish in a dry barrel!”

“We’re not through yet!” shouted Sunset, “Ready, Lightning…?”

Lightning nodded at the megazord, “You bet!” and he stood upright and pressed his morpher, “Comet Striker, Armor Up!”

“Summon Armor!”

“Comet Striker… Ready!”

Once Lightning was all armored up, he and the rangers scouted out for the nearest weak point in the dome.

“There it is…” cried Buddy Rose “If we both hit it together, it may just shatter the dome.”

“Yeah, but what about the force-field?” asked Fluttershy, “It could damage us.”

“It’s a risk we’ll have to take.” said Rainbow.

The two Megazords stood side-by-side, “Ready when you guys are.” Lightning said. The megazord raised its fist, signaling to go for it, and the two zords thrust their fists hard against the walls of the dome. As expected, the electrical field shocked them both hard making more sparks fly…

However, the dome actually began to crack, much to Domer’s horror, and the dome finally shattered and was gone.

“Alright, we did it!” cried Rainbow.

“Some much for that,
Now let’s finish this rat!” said Rhymey.

“Right… Time to Shine!” declared Sunset.

Domer tried fruitlessly to restart his dome gem, but it was all out of power from the damage and constant overuse. “Drat it! I’ll use my fists instead!”

Unfortunately for Domer, he wasn’t much good a fighter. The two zords lunged fort her and pounded him silly. The megazord punched him to Lightning whom kicked him off. Then both zords punched him at the same time and knocked him up the street.

“Mama warned me there’d be days like this!” cried Domer. Then he watched as both zords drew out their weapons for the final attack.

“Star Slash… Go!” shouted Sunset, and the Megazord slash at Domer hard.

“My turn…!” said Lightning. His blades glowed brightly, “Super Space Strike!” and he trush his blades hard into Domer.

“I’M ABOUT TO GO KAZAM!!” Domer roared, and he exploded and was imprisoned, and then beamed into the Megazord’s cockpit.

The five rangers rejoiced.

“Yeah, we did it!” cried Lighting.

All the people below whom had seen the battle cheered and jumped for joy, while Celesto starred up proudly at the two zords.

All together the six rangers declared, “MONSTER CAPTURED! MISSION COMPLETE!”

At the tower, Marla was whining and throwing such a tantrum over her loss. “No! It isn’t possible! How could the rangers have beaten him…?!”

She turned and thundered at Keto, “Maybe if your mugics worked better…!” then she balked at Bronc “Or if you did more than just stand around all the time…!”

The boys ultimately were fed up with her yelling, and Bronc slapped a small dome lid covered in glue over her mouth, silencing her.

Keto chuckled, “Good one!”

Bronc snickered, and even Vulcan couldn’t help but find it amusing, despite the failure. “It really suits her well.” he joked.

Marla was far from amused!

With the monster captured, and the people all freed. The rangers joined Celesto in his trip to the hospital to visit Celestia and the babies. Twilight soon joined them, as school was already out for the day… meaning the rangers would have lots of homework to catch up on.

Celestia held both the babies in her arms, and they cooed happily.

“Thank you all so much for saving my husband.” she said to the rangers. Celesto nodded thankfully to the team, “The entire city is as grateful as I am for what you did today.”

The rangers all nodded respectfully, but really they didn’t even want to begin think how close they came to failing. “I just couldn’t stop thinking how the babies would handle it if they lost their father.” said Fluttershy.

“Fluttershy, that’s so sweet of you.” Celesto said.

Fluttershy blushed, but all anyone really wanted to after which was just gaze down at the babies, and Spike and Krysta peeked in from Twilight’s knapsack.

Episode 18: Prank You Very Much

EPISODE EIGHTEEN

Bronc was working at his tool-table, fiddling with cybernetics and circuitry. “Right, now where’s my screwdriver?” he found it next to him, but when he grabbed it he suddenly found he couldn’t put it down. “What… What is this…?!” he growled.

From within the shadows, behind him, a mysterious figure gawked at him and cackled.

Marla was prettying herself up again as she gazed at her reflection in the mirror. “Mmm… Mwa! Lookin’ pretty hot.” She complemented as she gazed at her reflection. “I think a little more powder couldn’t hurt.”

She reached for one of her many compacts and began to powder her face, but suddenly she started to feel really itchy and began to scratch her face furiously, leading her to ruin her makeup and she screamed, but still had to scratch.

That same figure watched at her from the rafters and cackled again.

Even Keto was about to meet with a similar fate, as he was in the pantry section he had set up, and just finished his snack. He let out a huge belch, “Ah… time for desert. My favorite, chocolate-coconut-cream pie…” but as he prepared to take the pie and eat it, the pie just flung up on a spring and hit him in the face.

The pie slid off, and Keto felt horribly unamused, and then he heard the sound of someone laughing at him, in a really goofy voice. “You should’ve seen the look on your face!”

Keto turned round and saw a creature with head like a can with springy-snake like objects popping out like hair. His arms looked like pie-flingers, and attached to a body like a giant whoopee cushion, but it was solid not soft.

“Another victim of the great Prankstar!” he gloated.

“You…!” Bronc shouted as he entered the room with more tools stuck to his body “You did all this!”

Marla, still itching and scratching from head-to-toe came in. “You’re going to pay for this!” she snarled. The trio looked ready to pounce…!

“No!” Vulcan shouted and fired a couple of blasts by their feet making them stop. “I asked him to pull off all these pranks as a test. No harm is to come to him!”

The trio were confused, “You set him free?” asked Keto.

“Yes!” sneered Vulcan, and he explained how Prankstar begged to be released promising he’d get the rangers for them, for he was a master prankster, responsible for humiliating and trapping many within his clutches through simply delinquency.

“That… and I do enjoy a good prank as well as the next person.” Vulcan said with a guilty snicker.

“You mean you’re going to get the rangers simply by pranking them?” asked Bronc “That doesn’t seem very probable.”

Prankstar felt insulted, “Oh, these jokes were just pitiful. Just wait until I get into the juicy stuff. The rangers will never know what hit them until it’s too late.”

With that, he headed off to plan his treachery.

Vulcan seemed fairly impressed.

(Que Intro)

That very morning, Rhymey and Fluttershy were walking down the halls of the school, hand-in-hand, and they reached Fluttershy’s locker.

His was a few lockers, quite convenient for them both, but when Fluttershy opened her locker, out popped a snake that frightened her and made her shriek and fall down onto her bottom. Other students laughed at her, but Rhymey dashed over and noticed the snake…

“A rubber snake,
It’s completely fake.”

Then he helped his trembling girlfriend up. She felt so embarrassed as well as freaked out, “I don’t like practical jokes like this.” she whimpered.

Rhymey didn’t like that she was frightened and stirred up, but he also couldn’t help but chuckle softly, which earned him a sour stare from Fluttershy.

Rainbow was outside in the field working on her soccer skills, which she liked to do every chance she got, but the warning bell rang and it was almost time for class. “Rats!” she groaned.

She then walked over to the bench to change out of her cleats and put her boots on, but as soon as she put her foot inside… SQUISH!! “What the…?!” she shouted as she pulled her foot out to find her sock were covered in red spaghetti sauce that had been laced inside her boots, “Ugh…!”

Even Sunset was about to have a misfortune as she stopped by the soda dispenser, only to mysteriously find her favorite soda was already in the catcher bin. At first she felt it was her lucky day getting a free soda, until she opened the bottle and took a single sip, and she gagged! It tasted like her most hated soda, and she proved it by peeling off the label on the bottle to reveal the actual label underneath. “Oh, no…!” she groaned.

Followed by the sound of little girls giggling hysterically and the Cutiemark Crusaders came out from the girls’ washroom. “You looked kinda thirsty, so we left ya a little somethin’.” teased Applebloom.

The other girls giggled, and though Sunset was annoyed, it was hard for her not to laugh at her own self.

The other rangers came along; all of them looking a mixture of slightly amused, but more annoyed. “At it again, huh girls?” asked Rainbow.

“Yep, this is our prankster day.” Sweetie Belle said as she held up a book she and her friends had been reading, entitled “1001 Ways to Pull a Harmless Practical Joke.”

“I don’t think it’s really nice to pull these pranks on people, girls.” said Fluttershy.

“Ah, come on. It’s perfectly harmless.” said Scootaloo, “It’s actually quite funny.”

The rangers couldn’t help but each hold in a laugh, not wanting to admit the fun in things. “And this year, we’re ready for you, Buddy.”

Her cousin gave her a playful glare, “Oh, really…?”

“Yeah, really…”

Buddy wasn’t as easy a victim for pranks and tricks. It was like he had some build in radar that could see them coming from a-hundred miles away. The Crusaders made it their solemn mission to prank him at least once!

“Well, good luck, girls…” Buddy said, holding out his hand for a high-five with his cousin. She was about to slap his hand, when he swerved and grabbed her wrist exposing the buzzer she had on her hand, “Got’cha!”

“Hey, no fair…!” DD grumbled. Her cousin chuckled “I’ll be watching you girls.” And then he went off to class.

The rangers snickered softly.

“See ya, girls.” said Sunset, and she and the others headed off to class.

As the girls walked off to their elementary class, they swore amongst each other as DD proclaimed, “We are going to try every possible thing until we find a way to prank Buddy.”

“Yeah, this is the year we finally get him.” agreed Sweetie.

“But how are we gonna get at him?” asked Applebloom, “He’s as sharp as a sewin’ needle. He gets us all the time.”

“Well, we’ll find something.” said Scootaloo “And we can still tease the others in the meantime.”

The girls snickered.

Meanwhile, deep in town, Prankstar was already setting up for his pranks. “This is going to be a hoot.” he snickered.

Before long, practically everyone in the area fell victim to his traps.

Those who walked through doors ended getting soaked in green slime which magically rendered them immobile. Others simply touched their car doors, or pressed switched to change the traffic-lights at crosswalks, or even picked up payphones, and received nasty shocks of electricity, keeping them bound and trapped.

Some people innocently sat down on benches, outdoor tables, and suddenly became stuck-down, unable to get up again.

Prankster practically fell over laughing at the humiliation he caused. “And this is just the beginning…” he said to himself “The rangers are bind to coming sooner or later, and when the do… the joke will be on them.”

The elementary students only had a half day and were let out of school early, but all the rest of that morning, the rangers fell victim to more of the crusaders jokes.

Sunset sat on a whoopee-cushion in class, making everyone laugh at her. “Girls!” she grumbled

In Gym class, Rainbow fell for another sporting trick: She kicked a soccer ball, only to realize, too late, that it was tired down to the ground on a lopped steak, causing the ball to come back at her and forcing her to jump.

“Girls!” she growled.

Even Rhymey and Fluttershy fell victim to another clever little trap: The girls somehow managed to hide a little noise maker in Fluttershy’s notebook, so when she opened the cover, it SCREAMED, and jumped into Rhymey’s arms which frightened him as well.

Other students were laughing, even the teacher couldn’t help but laugh a bit before telling everyone to take their seats, but Fluttershy and Rhymey were far from amused.

“Not again!” groaned Fluttershy.

“This is really a pain.” rhymed Rhymey.

The girls had been spying on the rangers each and every time they pulled a successful prank, and all exchanged chuckles and high-fives. “We are on fire!” Sweetie gloated.

“Yeah, but let’s see if Buddy’s fallen for anything yet.”

Unfortunately for them, Buddy remained as slick and as clever as ever. He didn’t fall for a single trap.

-When his opened his locker, a snake jumped out at him, and he didn’t even flinch, but just smiled.

-When he took a moment to tend to his flower beds outside, he already figured some of the flowers were fake and that squirt-water. He just shielded himself with the strong cover of his notebook and plucked the fake flowers out.

-Not even walking under a bucket of confetti over the door trick worked, he just walked right under it and swerved out of the way.

-He went to the boys’ washroom, and a windup mouse crawled through his cubicle. The girls had let it in through the door without actually going inside.

“You’ll have to do better than that, Girls.” Buddy called to them.

The girls were really getting frustrated.

“Dang, he’s tough.” groaned Applebloom.

“Well, we’ll just have to get tougher then.” said Scootaloo.

“Ahem…” Principal Cadance said while tapping her foot. The girls nervously looked round, and saw herself and Twilight looking disappointingly at them. “Shouldn’t you girls be going home by now?” Cadance asked rhetorically.

“Yes, Principal Cadance.” the girls all said.

“Very, good, and no more of these practical jokes, either. Save them for the playground, but not here.”

“Yes, Principal Cadance.” the girls repeated, and they walked shamefully away.

That was when Buddy came out from the washroom. “Hey, come on. Take it easy on them. They don’t mean any harm.”

“Maybe, but this is a high-school, not a circus.” said Twilight.

“Twilight’s right.” added Cadance, “Although, as much as I enjoy a good joke better than the next person, they shouldn’t even wandering this part of the school anyway, and we can’t have them doing all this either. It causes disruption.”

Buddy couldn’t argue with that, and then he excused himself to go join his friends for lunch, while Twilight walked with her Sister-in-law to have lunch with her in the main office, and to check up on Spike.

“I wonder how the girls managed to pull all these pranks off without being seen anyway.” Twilight wondered “I mean it’s not even mathematically feasible. Less that anyone couldn’t be aware of what was bound to happen.”

Suddenly, Vice Principal Luna came in, sneezing hard. She blew her nose with a hankie and remarked, “Somebody doused my desk with… snee… snee… snee… AH-CHOO! …Sneeze Powder.”

Cadance and Twilight rolled their eyes, believing it was the crusaders again, despite the improbability they could’ve done that.

Then Cadance sat in her chair at her desk,

…SQUISH!!

There was a brief silence, and then she stood up softly and carefully as the back of her skirt and blazer were coated in green squishy paint.

The ladies suddenly heard the sound of a familiar snicker, but not of the crusaders, but Spike, under the desk. “So that’s where I left my toy alligator. I told Twilight not to get the squishy kind.”

The three ladies were half amused, but also half annoyed. “So you did these things, Spike?” Twilight asked practically scorning him, and Spike shamefully but more proudly admitted it, “After seeing the girls at it, I just couldn’t resist. Besides, it’s been a little boring around here anyway.”

Twilight was now very disappointed in Spike. “Aw, go on, Twilight…” Spike said “Here, have one of these.” he passed her a single ping-pong ball.

She picked it up on her fingers and looked at it awkwardly. “Why would I want this?” but suddenly she realized, “No-No! Wait…!”

“SO YOU CAN ADD IT TO THE REST!!” Spike shouted, and that’s when a whole rain of Ping-Pong balls fell from above onto Twilight.

Luna and Cadance could hardly believe their eyes, and Twilight was completely livid, as well as confused to how this was even possible… but it happened anyway.

Spike was rolling on the floor and laughing like a hyena.

Even Luna and Candance couldn’t help but chuckle softly, but then they and Twilight all got serious. “You better watch it, Spike.” said Cadance “Somebody could prank you back for this.”

Buddy sat with his friends in the lunchroom, and Sunset actually felt nervous to open her soda, and Fluttershy couldn’t seem to bring herself to take a bite of her sandwich fearing she’d find a worm inside.

“Come on, the girls wouldn’t stoop that low.” Rainbow pointed out, and she ate her lunch and drank from her soda without much worry.

“Besides, Cadance sent them home. You don’t have to worry.” added Buddy.

Sunset sipped her soda, without worry or being pranked. “I wonder where they got this notion to prank like this. It’s not like them.”

“What I’d like to know is,
How is Buddy a Prank avoiding wiz?” said Rhymey.

That was something all the others wanted to know, but admitted he couldn’t teach it to them. “It’s just one of those things; either you got it or you don’t. I can smell pranks form a mile away, and so they’re easy to avoid.”

Suddenly, their communications went off; it was Lightning calling them.

Not wishing to cause to arouse attention from the other students, and to hear Lightning better, the rangers left their table and went out into the hall where it wasn’t as noisy from all the chattering.

“What’s up, Lightning?” Sunset asked, and Lightning “Um… this may seem a little strange, but, I can’t get off my bike.”

Everyone raised an eyebrow. “You called us because you can’t get off your bike?” Rainbow asked. “There’s more…” said Lightning, and he explained how he was out getting himself takeout on his lunchbreak, but when he got back to his motorbike and sat on the seat, he found he couldn’t get back off again, “Now I can see more people stuck to benches, poles, and other things.”

Now the rangers were starting to think this was weird. “Either this is some big prank…” said Rainbow “Or… it could even be…!”

As Lightning continued to struggle on his bike seat while talking to the rangers, he suddenly heard people screaming, and he saw why as Prankstar landed in the streets cackling and laughing.

“That’s right, scream all you like. It’ll only bring the rangers out faster!”

“Red-Alert rangers, we got a monster, and believe me, this is no joke!”

The rangers gasped, and Twilight came running along, with ping-pong balls still flooding out of her pockets, confirming Lightning’s call. “I’m picking up signals of alien activity all over town, and it’s spreading. Everyone’s falling victim to these practical jokes, and believe me they are not your average run-of-the-mill.”

“How come you have ping-pong balls in your pocket?” asked Fluttershy.

Twilight looked unamused, and Sunset said “Never mind… let’s move!” and she and the rangers dashed down the hall and out the door, heading for the nearest jump-tube.

Lightning was still struggling, unable to get off his bike seat, but he was stuck real good, and he couldn’t try to morph in the middle of public where people would see him.

Krysta couldn’t even try to help him either; what could she possibly do? “Oh, I hope they get here soon.” She peeped softly as she sat on an eaves trough above the takeout place.

Suddenly, Lightning had an idea, and he waved to Krysta using their special sign language, because he couldn’t let people know she could speak, and he said to her. “Go… find… me… some… good… strong... sharp…scissors.”

Krysta flapped her wings and hopped about, responding, “Scissors? What… for?” and Lightning gestured back at her “Just… hurry!”

Given their history, Krysta trusted Lightning’s word and flew off to get him a pair of scissors.

That’s when the rangers, morphed, came onto the scene.

“Lightning…” Sunset called as she and the others huddled around him. “Are you okay?”

Rainbow and Buddy tried to pull him off his bike, but he was stuck good.

“Talk about sticky mess.” Rainbow muttered.

“Never mind me…” cried Lightning “Worry about him!”

Prankstar stood glaring at the rangers, “You sure took your sweet time getting here.” He taunted “Now we can have some real fun.”

The rangers growled and huddled together as they stared him down. “What? No sense of fun?” he teased “Well, here… have some.” That’s when the top of his head opened like a lid and the rangers were suddenly all sucked in by a magical vortex.

“No! Guys…!” Lightning shouted.

Many people witnessed the rangers vanishing and they were all super worried, even the crusaders, whom were walking by on their way through town on their way to one of the girls’ apartments.

They were pretty much among the few people who hadn’t been trapped by Prankstar’s setups.

“Did you see that?” cried Applebloom. “All of them just got sucked right up.” added Sweetie. “There’s no sign of the comet ranger anywhere.” cried Scootaloo. “What do you think’s happened to them?” asked DD.

The rangers found themselves trapped in a strange world of neon flashing colors and mist all all over the white ground.

“Oh, no, not another real game…?!
It’s all to repetitive and all the same!” groaned Rhymey.

“I don’t know. Something feels different about this one.” said Sunset “Not that it matters, we’ve got to find a way out.”

Suddenly, Fluttershy saw an “Exit” sign, pointing at a doorway, which she thought was the way out. “I think I found a way out of here.” She cried as she raced towards the door.

“Fluttershy, No!” shouted Buddy, and he rushed over and pushed her out of the way, just as the door wiggled abnormall and fell flat on the ground with a loud thud as if it weighed a ton.

Fluttershy was horrified “That could’ve been me under that door.” she whimpered.

“It was a prank!” grumbled Buddy.

The others felt concerned, and Buddy suddenly got that weird feeling again. “Guys, duck!” he shouted.

The others were confused, and so Buddy got out his whip and lassoed the others pulling them away as a barrage of pies flew in, splatting on the ground, and exploded like bombs!

“Okay, that was weird and freaky!” said Rainbow.

Then they heard the sound of Prankstar laughing at them, and he seemingly appeared before them. “Run all you like, rangers. There’s no escaping from my pranks.”

“Why you…!” shouted Rainbow, and she dashed at him. Buddy shouted to her, “Rainbow… Stop! It’s another trick!” but too late as Rainbow ran at the image of Prankstar only to crash right through a brick wall, making the others wince.

Rainbow’s head was spinning with stars and birds tweeting. She felt more humiliated than hurt.

Suddenly, many guns and cannons appeared, loaded and ready. “Look out!” screamed Sunset, but some of the guns merely just popped with corks on strings or signs that read “Bang”

The rangers all felt relieved, until more of the guns shot actual lasers at them, damaging the rangers and making them fall over.

Prankstar laughed hysterically, “You should’ve seen yourselves thinking you were fine, and I’m just getting warmed up.”

He planned to continue torturing them all with prank after prank. Some would be mere gags, others were real threats, which would make it hard to tell what was about to happen; even for Buddy.

He could tell most normal types of pranks, but this was anything BUT normal!

Prankstar began to sing in a song as the rangers met with more misfortune…

Walkin’ down the streets, on a clear day, goin’ your way
When all the sudden from out of the blue, it gets you
It seems so simple and so plain to your eyes,
But if you’re not careful it’ll get you by surprise!

A practical joke can be played on any folk
It can happen to anyone,
It may look like just for fun
But for you, Power Rangers, my pranks will make you done!

“Look out!” shouted Buddy as more pie bombs were flung at the team. “Take this!” Rainbow shouted as she blasted the pies with her cannon.

Many knives and blades came soaring at the rangers-- some real and some fake. Rhymey skilfully parried them all back with his sword and expert fencing.

But no matter how many pranks the rangers tried to duck and avoid, they never seemed to stop, and Prankstar was having the time of his life. “Prank you… Prank you very much.” He said in an Elvis like fashion.

He continued to sing…

You can't trust anyone that you meet
You can't walk to cautiously down any street

A practical joke can be played on any folk
It can happen to anyone,
It may look like just for fun
You can’t hide, you can’t run…
“Don’t you get it, everyone?!”
For you, Power Rangers, my pranks will make you done!

His evil laugh echoed throughout the zone as the rangers felt trapped within the looming shadows.

Outside in the real world, Applebloom decided, “I say we find a way to help them.”

“Yeah…” agreed Sweetie “We helped them once before, we can do it again.”

Scootaloo’s eyes lit up, “And I think I got just the idea!” She huddled the girls together to whisper her idea, which the girls all liked a lot. “It just might work.” said DD.

The girls all put their hands in the center and shouted out, “THE CUTIEMARK CRUSADERS TO THE RESCUE!!”

Prankstar laughed maliciously. “The fun never ends with this. The rangers are stuck in my prank zone, and I’m free to destroy their precious city!”

“Think again!” someone shouted, and Lightning, morphed, after somehow freeing himself from his bike seat, leapt in over the monster.

“He, where’d you come from?” snarled Prankstar.

“That’s nothing compared to where you’ll be going.” snapped Lightning “Now give me back my friends!”

Prankstar laughed, “Is that a threat or a joke?”

“You bet it’s a threat!”

“Now that’s a joke! Get him, Lingos!”

A swarm of Lingos appeared and charged at Lightning, forcing him to leapt in and make short work of them. He punched one, kicked another into two more. “Beat it, ya goons!” he thundered.

The last of the Lingos were knocked down, leaving Prankstar wide open.

Twilight had already done her calculations, and located the entry and exit way to the world which the rangers were trapped in. “Lightning…” she said to him, “You need to get to his head and pop the lid off. Only then will the rangers be freed.”

“Right, thanks Twilight. That should be easy.”

“Ha!” scoffed Prankstar “Easy like a slice of pie…!” that’s when tossed his pie bombs and Lightning.

“Whoa!” he cried as he barely dodged the explosions.

“Don’t like pie?” teased Prankstar “Well how about some of these…!” and out from his hand he launched springy snake like objects that were actually very solid and hit Lightning hard like hard punches.

“That’s it!” Lightning growled, and he charged forth, punching the snakes out of his way while swerving and dodging the rest, finally reaching the monster.

The two brawled fiercely, exchanging attacks and defenses back and forth. “Take this!” Lightning thundered, and kicked the monster hard sending him rolling along. “No, more… I’ll give you your friends back!” he whimpered and cried.

Lightning found that strange to believe.

“Psyche!” shouted Prankstar and he shot more pie bombs and him, hitting him hard and sent him sailing down the road. “Dirty trick…!”

Prankstar laughed and said, “You fell for the joke, now you’re going to fall into my world where you’ll join your friends in destruction!

Speaking of which, I wonder how they’re holding out.”

Lightning felt worried, and indeed… the rangers were not holding out too well. The pranks continued to pelt at them, many swarms after many swarms, and they were really starting to get tired.

“We… can’t… keep going… like this!” panted Sunset.

“I don’t care if I ever laugh or cry again… I just want to get out of here!” shouted Rainbow.

More pranks began to set themselves up, but which were real and which weren’t? Buddy was growing exhausted and could hardly tell for himself. “Look out!” he cried as the pranks bolted at the team.

As for Lightning, he stood, but wasn’t sure of what to do as the monster approached him.

“Now!” shouted Applebloom, and she and Sweetie pulled on one end of a clear thin line, while the others pulled on the other side, raising the tripwire and causing the monster to snag and fall over.

“Hey, what happened?” he growled.

Even Lightning was confused.

The monster angrily got up and brushed himself off. “That’s it! Now I’m mad!” he growled, and he changed forth, when suddenly... he tripped on another wire, causing a big bucket of sticky syrup to fall from above and soar him, followed a second bucket of feathers.

“Hey! What is this!” shouted the monster as she flailed around in the blindness and stickiness.

“I don’t believe this.” said Lightning, but then he spotted the girls. At opposite corners of the street. “Well I’ll be…!”

“HELP THE RANGERS!!” the girls shouted to him.

“Right!” snapped Lightning, and he dashed towards the monster while it was still subdued in the sticky mess he was in. “Huh?” he cried as he saw Lightning charging at him, and he leapt up high and kicked off the lid on his head…!

…Thus releasing the rangers from their imprisonment.

The crusaders cheered for joy and slapped high-fives.

“Guys…!” Lightning cried as he dashed over to his friends. “Hey! That wasn’t funny!” whined Prankstar.

The rangers felt ever so relieved to be out, and despite their weariness, they felt they had just enough power for a Star Slam.

“Bring the weapons together!” said Sunset. The others agreed, and formed the Star Slammer.

“Star-Slammer… Ready!”

“Hey, quit playing around!” shouted Prankstar.

“No one’s playing. This is serious.” said Sunset. “Star-Slammer… Ultra-Strike!”

The rangers all stood together and sunset slammed the monster hard. “Come on, guy’s… Joke’s over!” he shouted as his body flared up and he exploded.

The rangers cheered, and the crusaders leapt for joy, but this celebration was about to be short-lived.

Vulcan observed everything and chuckled wickedly. “The joke’s still on you, rangers.” He said, and he gazed over at Keto who nodded in response.

“FORTISSIMO!!”

The mugic was launched, cast it’s spell, and Prankstar became a giant. “Anyone in for a BIG laugh?!” he taunted.

The crusaders cowered and ducked within allies.

As for the rangers, they were outraged, but still fairly weak and tired from their trials in the Prank Zone.

“Our powers are running too low.” cried Fluttershy.

“We haven’t too much might,
We couldn’t pilot the megazord and fight.” added Rhymey

“You guys take it easy…” Lightning said, “I’ll handle this. GIGANTIFY!”

“Giant-Mode… Engage!”

He grew large!

“Ha! You rangers are full of jokes aren’t you.” teased Prankstar. “And you’re so full of jokes, it’s getting on my nerves!” growled Lightning.

The two giants began to brawl fiercely. Lightning punched, and Prankstar blocked it. Prankstar kicked, and Lightning rolled out of the way.

“Pie break!” shouted Prankstar and he fired more pies at Lightning which hit him hard with big explosions and knocked him down, much to everyone else’s horrors.

“I wish I could see the look behind that helmet of yours.” teased Prankstar, “But now it’s time for you to enter a world of a joke.”

The lid on his head began to open, “Not this time!” snapped Lightning and he charged up his gauntlets.

“Comet Gauntlets… Engage!”

Just as Prankstar’s vortex began to hurl at him to such him into the world in his head, Lightning fired his Comet Trail straight into it, causing the energy to go back and hit Prankstar in a big explosion, knocking him over. “Not funny!” he shouted.

“Time to Armor up!” said Lightning.

“Summon Armor!”

“Comet Striker… Ready!”

Once Lightning armored up, he immediately extended his blades. “Hey, come on… Joke’s over!” cried Prankstar.

“Super-Space-Strike!” Lightning shouted as she thrust hard slashing his blades into Prankstar. “THE JOKE’S ON ME!!” he shouted as he exploded and was imprisoned, and with his capture, everyone in the city affected by his pranks was set free.

“He did it!” cried Fluttershy.

The rangers all cheered, so did the crusaders and the rest of the people in the city, while Lightning stood tall and proud. “Monster Captured! Mission Complete!”

Back at the tower, Vulcan was fuming furiously. “I don’t believe this!!” He ranted and raved, kicking over tables and frightening his minions and the Lingos.

“Someone will pay dearly for this!” he growled and gawked at his minions. “Uh-oh!” whimpered Keto. “I think we should run!” cried Marla. “I’m way ahead of you all!” shouted Bronc as he ran off with his comrades following them.

Vulcan didn’t bother chasing after them. “Someday, Rangers… Someday, I’ll get you, and that is no joke!”

Meanwhile, Lightning waited with the other rangers, but he still hadn’t de-morphed yet, and for good reason.

He had used the scissors Krysta had brought him to cut up his pants so he could slip out of them to free himself from his bike seat. As clever as that was, the others couldn’t help but giggle softly to the fact that he was in his boxers underneath his suit. So it best he didn’t de-morph until he could get home to get a fresh set.

“Oh, please…” Lightning groaned, holding his hand to his helmet in embarrassment.

The others rangers were de-morphed, and the crusaders joined them on the side of the street. “So you found a better use for your pranks, huh?” asked Sunset.

The girls felt a little ashamed, “I think we’re pretty much done with pranks, unless we really gotta use them.” said Applebloom. The other girls agreed. They didn’t even mind about not being able to get back at Buddy.

“Good for you girls.” said Fluttershy “It’s never really a good thing to play mean tricks on people, especially not your friends.”

“Unless you have a good enough reason.” Buddy said as he came out of a bake-shop with four custard cream pies and a cheeky grin on his face, “Right… girls?”

“Uh-Oh!” the girls whimpered, and the other rangers held them. “Oh, yes…” said Rainbow. The others all snickered cheekily as Buddy moved in closer.

Suddenly, a truck very near honked its horn making him jump and throw the pies up high and all splatted down upon his own head.

The others gasped softly, and Buddy wiped the cream from his eyes and mouth. “Then again, maybe it’s an entirely different matter when you accidently prank your own self.”

The others laughed hysterically, and he laughed too.

Episode 19: Don't Jinx It

EPISODE NINETEEN

One morning, Sunset, Rainbow and Twilight all shared the same history class together, and unfortunately, they were in the same class as Nikki and the Jazzies.

Twilight was looking through her knapsack to get organized, when Nikki came barging through and deliberately kicked the bag aside.

“Excuse me?” Twilight said.

Nikki just flicked her hair and said, “You’re excused, like your backpack that was in my way.”

Amber and Dionne chuckled.

“Hey!” Rainbow snapped as she stood in front of the mean girls, “You owe her an apology.”

Nikki, not impressed, simply went, “Fine, I’m sorry Twilight’s Aztecan backpack was in my way, so I simply moved it out of the way.”

Rainbow was starting to lose her temper.

“Rainbow, don’t…” Sunset cautioned.

“Yeah, don’t even think about it…” added Amber. “Or we’ll deck you like a pack of cards.” threatened Dionne. “You think I’m scared of you, Jerkies?” sneered Rainbow.

“It’s Jazzies…” growled Nikki.

The two girls glared each other down badly.

Twilight stood up to try and calmly intervene, but the teacher walked in and cleared his throat, “I hope I’m not interrupting…” It was Lightning wearing a suit and tie rather than his normal tracksuit, and he was not wearing his comet morpher either.

Twilight, Rainbow and Sunset were astonished to see him in their classroom, and as for Nikki, “Whoa…!” she sighed as she gawked at him and all went soft and blurry in her eyes as hearts fluttered round her head.

Amber and Dionne were confused. They waved their hands and snapped their fingers in front of Nikki’s face, but when she didn’t even blink, it was obvious to them what was going on, even Twilight and the others were aware of it too.

(Que Intro)

Marla was sighing boringly as the Lingos did her nails and pampered her. “Ugh! It is getting so dreadful around here. Why can’t we ever do anything fun or exciting…?”

“Because this is a sophisticate dbase of operations…!” “sneered Bronc “At least I’m coming with a great idea to destroy the rangers!” and he held up a beautiful bouquet of red roses.

“That’s your big idea, flowers?” Marla asked, and she laughed almost hysterically, but Bronc smirked and showed that they were no ordinary flowers. “Just watch…” he said as he handed the bouquet to a Lingo and ordered it to smell.

The Lingo took a mighty big whiff of the flowers, and suddenly a wicked feminine voice called out, “Jinxed!” and at once, the Lingo began to pulsate blue and purple glows, and it felt rather woozy, but not only that, it couldn’t seem to pick up the hair-dryer for Marla, or even something as light as the powder compact.

Bronc snickered and explained, “Master Vulcan gave me the chance to use the wicked Jinx for this mission.”

That’s when Jinx came in. She was a humanoid creature with blue wavy hair and purple streaks, and she wore a strong black robe and purple cape. “You called, Master Bronc?”

Bronc nodded and went on explaining, “Once the rangers are jinxed by this curse cast on everyday simple items, their weapons, and skills will be virtually useless. They’ll hardly be able to fight a flea, let alone stop us this time.”

Marla didn’t know whether to be amazed or freaked out, while Jinx snickered sinisterly.

Meanwhile, Lightning wrote his name on the chalkboard, “For those of you who don’t know me, the name’s Lightning Dawn; Mr. Dawn to you. I’ve been transferred here from Crystal Prep Academy by order of Mr. Grandruler and Principal Shining Armor so that Crystal Prep may interview new teachers.”

Secretly, only Lightning Twilight and the others knew he had been transferred in a way to try to keep the rangers all closer together, but Lightning would still have to try and keep his identity as Comet Ranger a secret.

All Nikki did was stare at him with that same goofy grin that only a girl in super like did, which disgusted her friends.

Soon, Lightning put his class to work; he made the class take notes as he read from a War History novel and also passing out special cards with questions regarding the subject they were to try and answer, with the use of their notes. It was his unique way of teaching and to test if they were really paying attention.

…A great way for him to figure his new students out.

Nikki, unfortunately was still gawking at him with her goo-goo eyes instead of paying attention or answer the question on the card she was given.

Then, when Lightning went around class, still reading from the book while gathering the answered cards, he took Nikki’s card and stopped dead in his tracks when he realized the card did not have an answer but rather a message written in red pen…

“I think I love you!”

She fluttered her eyes at him hoping he’d notice her, but Lightning was far from amused, “Great, another crusher.” he thought to himself, “Well there’s only one way to deal with this…”

He crumpled the card up and placed it on the empty desk behind Nikki. She was appalled, and so were her friends, while others snickered at Nikki’s obvious rejection.

“Ahem!” Lightning said, prompting everyone to get back to focusing.

Nikki clenched her fists in outrage. No one dare to reject her… Nikki Trent, the most popular girl at Canterlot High.

By the end of class, Lightning gathered up all the remaining cards. “We will continue tomorrow, and advise you to keep your notes in handy, as they will not only help you in this class, but may even give you a new point of view on the realities of life.”

The bell rang. “Class dismissed.”

The students all got up and filed out.

“Okay, that was the strangest class I’ve ever had.” Rainbow whispered to Sunset. “That makes two of us.”

Nikki was still being a sourpuss and was grumbling to herself. “He crumples it up and, like throws it behind me? No one’s ever done that to me before.”

Amber and Dionne knew this attitude and where it would lead to, and they were already bored of hearing her rant, and then it got worse as Nikki gasped and looked back in class as she saw Lightning talking to Twilight Sparkle, and she was handing him some sheets.

She couldn’t hear what they were saying, and began to assume bad…!

Twilight was merely giving him some paper work from Principal Cadance regarding his transfer. “Thank you, Twilight.”

Twilight smiled and headed for the door.

“Oh and Twilight…” he called to her making her stop. She looked back at him and he smiled softly at her, “I know we’ve had troubles in the past before, but I just want you to know…”

“I understand…” she responded “…I’m willing to let it all go too.”

The way they smiled and nodded at one another, even though it was just between well-meaning and caring friends, Nikki’s eyes flared in rage. “They were totally checking each other out! I won’t stand for this!”

“Uh-oh…” Amber whispered, “Here it comes…” added Dionne, and just as they feared, “Girls, we’ve got work to do.” Nikki said as she walked past them down the hall.

After next period, Twilight was walking off to the principal’s office to check up on Spike, when Nikki and her peeps were hiding round the corner, and Nikki was preparing to fire a spitball at Twilight. She had her in her sights and fired, but unfortunately, a nerdy kid walked out in the way and got hit in the face instead. “Hey! What was that?” he groaned.

Nikki growled and ducked behind the corner to avoid being seen. “Plan B.” she said to the girls.

After next period, Nikki planned to throw a ball of paper laced with sticky chewing gum at Twilight, hoping to get it stuck in her hair.

She saw Twlight coming out of the classroom and threw the ball, only to realize too late that it got stuck to her own hand and was dangling on a thread of gooey gum. “Eww….!” She groaned “Plan C.”

The others sighed and rolled their eyes.

Last period before lunch, Nikki was going to plain trip Twilight as she turned the corner and she was heading straight for them.

Lightning came along after exiting his class, “Ladies, what are you doing?” he asked to them. Nikki turned and looked up at him. At once, she went into a lovey daze at how handsome he looked, “Well, actually… I was.”

That’s when Twilight finally came round the corner “Oh, hi Light… I mean, Mr. Dawn.”

“Ms. Sparkle, glad I ran into you, I need to speak with you a moment before lunch.”

The two headed back into the classroom just down the hall, but Nikki not only felt her heart turning cold, but her eyes were blazing with fury. “It’s like I’m totally jinxed or something!”

The three bad girls went off with Nikki stomping angrily and vowing to get at Twilight and get Lightning’s attention.

As they passed by the windows, Jinx was already on the scene, snickering wickedly and ready to cause trouble as she headed round the back way of the school towards the school-kitchen.

The cooks were preparing a try of cupcakes for dessert that day, placing them on a rack before putting them on display.

Peeking through the open door, unseen and unnoticed by the busy people, “Those treats ought to do well for a starter.” Jinx hissed, and she focused her gaze on the cupcakes, cursing them with a strong magical beam from her eyes.

“One bite of those and the rangers will hardly keep their eyes open.”

She was about to leave when she noticed a bunch of students, whom were out enjoying their lunch hour were gawking at her with fear, and were about to scream and call for help. “Oh, no you don’t…!” snapped Jinx, and one blast from her eyes jinxed them instantly.

The poor students were all glowing in sickly colors, and feeling floppy and woozy, hardly able to walk or scream. “So much for that.” hissed Jinx “Now, I think I’ll go infect the rest of the city as well, and no one will be able to stop me.”

The rangers all sat together in the lunch-room; all of them had Lightning’s class that morning. “He sure teaches strangely.” said Buddy “I could barely keep up with him.”

“I’m sure he does this every day,
Teaching people in his own way.” said Rhymey.

“I hope he’s enjoying it here on his first day.” said Fluttershy.

Rainbow looked down a few tables at where The Jazzies were sitting, “Don’t look now, but it looks like someone’s having a hard day.” She gestured at how Nikki was picking at her food grumpily with a scowl on her face. Then she looked up and saw the rangers gawking at her. “What are you looking at?!” she sneered.

The rangers turned and looked away from the grouch.

“Word is… she’s in major like with Lightning.” Sunset whispered. The others found it funny and snickered a bit, and knowing that Lightning had a distaste for students crushing on him because of his world-traveling reputation, and his heroism during Starfleet events.

“Well, dessert time.” said Rainbow and she grabbed her cupcake and took a huge bit of it. Sunset already licked the icing off of hers, and buddy picked at the pieces of crumbs little by little.

Rhymey had the last cupcake that was available, and when he saw Fluttershy didn’t get one, being her sweet boyfriend, he wasn’t one to say no for an answer, and carefully broke it in half, giving her one piece.

“Oh, Rhymey…!” she said while fluttering her eyes thankful at him. They each broke off a piece and were about to feed each other…

…When the others groaned loudly.

Rhymey and Fluttershy looked, and gasped at what they saw; their friends were shrouded in purple and blue light, and they didn’t look very well either; almost like they were nauseous.

Fluttershy quivered and slunk down under the table.

Rhymey then looked round as he heard more groaning, and more than half the students in the lunchroom were in the same condition, and all of them either had cupcake on their faces, or had just taken a bit of the cupcakes

“You don’t think…!” cried Fluttershy, but boths he and Rhymey were already convinced.

That’s when Twilight walked into the lunchroom, late from her talking with Lightning. “What the…!” she cried when she noticed the students. Fluttershy and Rhymey ran up to her.

“Twilight, something is wrong here,
It has to do with this cupcake I fear.” Rhymey said.

He held up his half cupcake, and Twilight placed on a tiny glass tray she took out form her knapsack. “I’ll go get Lightning. You guys get the others and bring them to the base.”

Rhymey and Fluttershy agreed, and helped their jinxed friends as best they could.

While most of the students were infected, some were not, and among them were the Jazzies. “Okay, I so don’t know what is going on, but I am like totally freaking out here!” cried Nikki.

Amber and Dionne agreed and held each other while trembling.

Once at the base, the infected Rangers were taken straight to the medical ward. The doctors examined them…

“Their vital signs are incredibly sluggish, and their molecular structures have actually been slown down causing them to slow down, a bit like a video playing back in slow-motion. To be honest, I’ve never seen anyone in such bad shape.”

Celesto felt worried as he gazed at the groaning rangers. Then, Twilight and the others came in, having examined the cupcake Rhymey had brought. “Well?” he asked.

Twilight opened up her laptop and explained, “Scans have detected signs of a formula in the cupcake, but it’s not part of the actual recipe. It’s a kind of toxin that slows down the molecules and drains the natural energy from the body.”

Fluttershy and Rhymey both shuddered at such a dreadful thought,

“If we had taken a single bite,
We’d be drained of our strength and might.” said Rhymey.

“Well, thank goodness you didn’t.” said Lightning “But we’ve got to work on a cure for the others.”

Celesto got off the phone, “School’s been canceled for the rest of the day. It seems half the students are suffering from this same ailment.”

Fluttershy gazed sadly at her friends and hated seeing what bad shape they were in. “Don’t worry guys; we’ll get you all better. I promise.”

The others could only groan and murmur wearily, as if they were trying to say “We hope so.”

Suddenly, the alarms sounded, and Spike and Krysta dashed into the medical ward in a panic. “Guys, there’s major trouble in town!” cried Spike. “He’s not kidding!” added Krysta.

Everyone rushed to the main control room, and saw on the monitors that people all over town were falling under the same spell, and then they saw who was doing it.

Jinx zapped more and more people with her eye-beam, jinxing other people just like the rangers and the students were, and laughing maliciously while doing it, “You’ve all been jinxed!”

The team growled angrily, “I’ll bet that monster was who jinxed the cupcakes.” said Fluttershy. Everyone else agreed, and Celesto was rather concerned about sending all three rangers into battle, especially without the others.

“They’re in no condition to fight right now,” said Celesto “And if that monster jinxes you three…” he didn’t have to go on; the others fully understood the seriousness.

“But we can’t just sit and do nothing.” said Spike. “Maybe you could try a split operation while we work for a cure and scout the monster’s weakness?” suggested Krysta.

As much as the others felt that was rather risky, it seemed a logical thing to do. Rhymey and Fluttershy agreed to head on out while Lightning would stay behind momentarily. “I think I may know of a cure, but I’ll have to consult my notes and my journals.”

With that settled, Rhymey and Fluttershy moved towards the jump tubes.

“Be very careful you two.
Don’t let that monster jinx you.” said Celesto.

Everyone gawked at him, “Hey, you just spoke in rhyme.” said Fluttershy.

“Never mind that... It’s Morphin’ Time!” rhymed Rhymey.

His girlfriend agreed, and they activated their badges. “Starfleet Magic… Power On!!”

Once they were morphed, they headed off through the tubes.

The arrived on the scene, “There she is!” cried Fluttershy. Jinx hissed angrily, “Only two rangers, huh? You may have avoided my spell, but you won’t avoid your destruction! Get them, Lingos!”

A swarm of Lingos rose and lunged at the duo.

“Let’s strike back,
...to the attack!” shouted Rhymey.

Fluttershy nodded, and they jumped in and began to knock the Lingos down-- punching, kicking, flipping them all over-- but while they were distracted, Jinx saw this as the perfect chance to get at them. “Time to be jinxed!” she shouted.

“Huh?” went Fluttershy as she looked up, and she quickly rolled out of the way as Jinxed fired her eye-beam, missing her and hitting two Lingos, jinxing them instead.

“Hold still!” snarled Jinx “I can’t jinx you if you don’t!”

Rhymey saw this, and he wasn’t going to put up with it. “Raid Blade…!” he grabbed sword and lunged forth. “Rhymey, don’t!” shouted Fluttershy, but she got ambushed by more Lingos and had to fight back.

Rhymey already leapt up high for a slash attack. Jinxed fired another beam at him, but he deflected it with his sword like hitting a baseball and sent the blast ricocheting, bouncing, along the street, hitting objects and accidently hitting civilians nearby.

“Oh,
…no!” Rhyme groaned.

“Looks like you jinxed It.” teased Jinx, and she pulled out a sword of her own, with a dark glowing blade. “One little touch of this, and you’ll be too weak to pick up a ball of cotton!”

“We shall see,
Now, fence with me!”

The two went at it hard, clashing their blades like the skilled fencers they were; Rhymey was surprised Jinx was that good, but kept up a good fight.

Fluttershy, after finishing the last of the Lingos leapt in with her shield ready and blocked Jinx’s blade. “I’ll keep you covered!” she promised. Rhymey nodded thankfully at her, but Jinx only laughed and said “You shouldn’t have jinxed it…!” and she readied to fire another beam.

“Look out!” cried Fluttershy.

The beams fired! Rhymey, again, deflected one blast with his sword, and Fluttershy deflected the other beam with her shield. The two beams bounced all over the street and headed straight back at them.

Meanwhile, at the base, the others rangers were looking worse than ever. The jinxed glowing was becoming less transparent, and their vital signs were getting low.

Lightning went over all the journal entries he ever wrote down on his adventures around the world, and the many bad guys he fought against.

“I’ve got it!” Lightning suddenly said. The others all huddled around, and he explained what happened to him during one of his travels.

“I came across a crazy scientist who managed to affect people’s cellar structure by using a force-beam he created. One touch of the beam slowed down a person’s molecules so they moved just like the people who are jinxed now.”

“I remember that…” said Krysta “You got hit too, and you were moving so slow you couldn’t do much.”

“Well, what point are you making?” Spike asked rather impatiently.

Lightning explained, “That crazy scientist was planning to slow down the entire world, and he left me trapped, infected, in his lab, but his one blind spot was the heat lamp he had in his lab. When I fell under it, I felt myself regaining my strength again, and I was able to stop him.”

Twilight felt like smacking her head, “Of course; heat!” she cried “Heat affects molecules as well as cellular structure, and everyone else has been affected by the jinx rays.”

Celesto understood this as well. “If we can just blast the rangers with a small burst of heat, it just may reverse the effect of the jinx rays.”

Everyone else agreed, but the alarms suddenly sounded, and the monitors showed Rhymey and Fluttershy were in big trouble. The both of them had been jinxed, and while they were still morphed, they looked as weak and as helpless as toddlers.

Jinx was also having fun, tossing them around and beating them up like ragdolls.

Everyone cast a look at Lightning, “I’m on my way!”

“Right, meanwhile, we’ll try and get the others better.” said Celesto.

Lightning nodded and headed for the jump-tubes. “Be careful, Lightning.” said Krysta. “I’ll do my best.” replied Lightning. “It’s Morphin’ Time…!

…Cosmic Comet… Power On!”

After he went off the others headed for the medical ward. Celesto had explained to the doctors what needed to be done, and the rangers were each concealed in large dome like cases that were lowered onto their beds.

“These special units we use to control body temperatures.” Celesto explained “They can produce small amounts of heat or cold to break fevers and chills. This should do the trick.”

“…We hope.” added Spike.

Everyone gave him a strict look that he wasn’t exactly helping. Nonetheless the units were fired up and began to beam heat onto the rangers’ bodies.

Only time would tell if it would actually work.

Meanwhile, Jinx gave Rhymey and Fluttershy each another swift kick, sending the weakened rangers skidding up the street, and they felt so weak they could hardly scream. The purple glow of the jinx rays was glowing brighter and brighter as they got weaker, and their powers and strengths were totally useless.

Then Bronc appeared on the scene. “Well done, Jinx. Despite you don’t have all the rangers, these two will make a great start.”

Jinx bowed to him, “Many thanks, Master Bronc. The honor is now yours.”

Bronc snickered as he moved towards the fallen rangers, and both Rhymey and Fluttershy could barely find the strength to even lift their fingers, let alone get out of the way. “After all this time, all the trouble you’ve caused for Vulcan and my comrades, you will be no more and the rest of your team will soon follow.”

He was just about to fire his own lethal eye–beam at them…!

…When suddenly, Lightning came leaping in and kicked him hard in the chest and sent him crashing into Jinx.

“Back off, both of you…!” Lightning sneered at the villains. Fluttershy and Rhymey felt relieved he was here, but could hardly show it or make much a sound in their conditions.

“You!” snapped Bronc “I’ve been looking forward to fighting with you again, Traitor!”

Lightning resisted the urge to argue that he was no traitor; seeing as he would never have worked with Vulcan were he in the right state of mind and not brainwashed!

The two villains fired at him, and he dodged the attacks.

Lightning attacked Bronc furiously, punching and kicking hard, but Bronc blocked his every attack and hit him hard with big punches making sparks fly. “Looks like you’re slacking since you’ve defected.” Bronc teased.

Lightning growled angrily, “I’m warning you!”

“No! We’re warning you!” sneered Jinx and she fired a jinx-beam at him, which he dodged.

Lightning looked to his right and saw the other two getting worse by the minute. He knew he needed to help them and had just the idea.

He got up on his feet and sprinted alongside of a building, and then he sprung off hard. “Get him!” shouted Bronc, and both he and Jinx fired at him as he soared over their heads, missing him every shot.

“Charging comet gauntlets, low power…!”

“Comet Gauntlets... Engage! Low Power!”

After that, he unleashed a small wave of energy, which the villains dodged easily. “Ha, you missed soon-to-be-jinxed.” Jinx called to him, but Lightning snickered “It’s not you two I’m aiming for…”

The blast had hit both Rhymey and Fluttershy, though it made sparks and small explosions fly the heat from the energy warmed them up and they felt the powers returning to them as the jinx-waves faded out.

“What…?! Impossible!” cried Jinx.

“I feel a lot better.” said Fluttershy.

“You do?
Me too.” added Rhymey.

Infuriated, Bronc fired his eye-beam at them, but they dodged.

“I’ll just jinx you again!” shouted Jinx, and she blasted her sword with her eye-beam, intensifying the power immensely. The sword had the power to shoot beams as well. “Look out!” shouted Lightning as he and the others dodged the blasts.

“Dodge all you like, Rangers, you can’t escape us!” shouted Bronc, and he continued to fire his beam as well.

Fluttershy blocked one shot with her shield and Rhymey deflected another blast with his sword, which made them and Lightning realize their best chance of tipping the favor. “

Maybe we can get Jinx to blast her own self.” said Fluttershy

“Of course…” said Lightning “That’s what I did to the mad scientist I faced.”

“It’s worth a shot,
Let’s give it all we got.”

The three rangers huddled together in front of the glass wall of a building and turned to face Jinx as she approached them. “What’s the matter can’t run anymore?”

The rangers held still.

“Get them! Get them!” shouted Bronc.

“Don’t jinx me… but I’ll do it anyway.” said Jinx and she raised her sword to fire. “…JINX!!”

“Now!” shouted Lightning, and he and the others leapt up high just as the blast fired, missing them and hitting the reflective glass on the wall, “Huh?” cried Jinx and then she screamed as she got hit by her own blast, and rather than being jinxed, she was shrouded in sparks and small explosions, taking a load of damage.

“No!” shouted Bronc.

Jinx groaned and groped as she tried to maintain balance, but she looked pretty beaten up after hitting her own self. “Looks like… I’ve been jinxed!”

The rangers rejoiced that their plan worked, but Bronc was not going to take this, “You rotten rangers…!” he thundered as he prepared to open full fire on them, only to get blasted at from behind.

…it was the other rangers, morphed and un-jinxed. “Hope we’re not too late.” said Sunset.

“Actually, you’re just in time,
To help us can these slime.” said Rhymey.

“Well, what are we waiting for?” asked Rainbow.

“Yeah, let’s do it.” added Buddy.

They combined their weapons and formed the Star-Slammer. “I’ll get you, rangers!” shouted Jinx.

“STAR SLAMMER… ULTRA-STRIKE!!” the rangers shouted, and slammed the creature hard, “OR MAYBE NOT!!” Jinx shouted as she exploded.

The rangers all rejoiced, but Bronc was livid. “Keto…!” he shouted “If you’re watching this, DO IT NOW!”

Keto was watching, and he heard everything. “FORTISSIMO!”

The mugic came, worked its magic and Jinx was back, bigger and nastier than ever. “JINX!!” she shouted.

“Jet-Star Megazord…!” Sunset called out, and the megazord appeared on the scene almost instantly, and the rangers beamed into the cockpit.

“Go get her, guys!” Lightning called.

Bronc growled at him fiercely, “Just like I’ll be getting you!”

“Bring it on!”

As the two brawled in the streets…

The monster stared the megazord down, and the two held out their swords. “Ha! Can’t you try anything original?” Jinx mocked “Enguarde!”

The two giants clashed blades fiercely, making sparks fly with each parry.

Suddenly, the megazord missed, and Jinx found her opening and hit the left arm. The arm began to glow with the jinx field.

“The left arm’s been Jinxed!” cried Fluttershy, “It’s lost all power, I’m locked out!”

“It’s spreading all over the systems!” said Buddy “We’re losing power fast!”

Indeed, the glow was starting to spread from the arm right through the entire megazord. It even dropped its sword as it could barely lift it now, much to the monster’s humor. “Sorry, thems the breaks… and speaking of breaking…!”

She held out her sword looking ready for the final strike.

Down below, Lightning got stuck hard by Bronc and was sent skidding up the street, but one look up at the big fight and he could tell his friends were in serious trouble.

“Take a good look…!” sneered Bronc “The next time you see them will be in the next life where I shall now send you.”

Lightning only bolted upright and furiously lunged at him. Bronc dodged the lunge, but Lightning then kicked him hard in the chest and sent him skidding!

Lightning then contacted the others, “Quick guys, from the Ultra-Star Megazord. The heat form the energy flow will stop the jinx rays!”

“Right!” snapped Sunset “Got just enough for it. Ultra-Star Megazord, online!”

“Summoning Comet Armor!” cried Sunset.

“Zords Combine!”

“Ultra-Star Megazord… Ready!”

“It’s working! Power levels back to full.” said Rainbow. “All right, we’re back in business!” added Sunset.

Jinx was most outraged, “I’m getting a little tired of this!” she thundered, and she raised her sword to slash hard, but the megazord grabbed her wrists and flipped her back and over and her sword went flying up high and came crashing down on her, striking her and jinxing her with her own magic again!

“Not again!” she groaned “It’s like I’m jinxed!”

“You’re about to become more than just that.” said Sunset “Charge up Star Blast!”

“Energy Charge, Ready!”

The zord was glowing brightly and ready to fire at the rangers command. “STAR BLAST WAVE…FIRE!!”

POW! The strong energy wave fired, striking the monster hard. “Jinx… Jinx… JINX!!” she shouted, and she exploded and was imprisoned.

The rangers rejoiced and sunset declared “Monster Captured! Mission Complete!”

Broc roared furiously as he charged at Lightning.

“Comet Trail… Fire!” Lightning shouted as he unleashed his wave at Bronc, hitting him hard in a big explosion, not destroying him, but sending him high up, up into the air! “Until next time, Rangers!” he shouted before he vanished and was gone!

“Someday we’ll get you Bronc; you and Vulcan!” Lightning called out.

When Bronc got back to the tower, he got into a major argument with the others who teased him and scolded him for his blunder, while all Vulcan could do was hold his aching head and groan, “I swear… these miserable failures…! It’s like I’m jinxed or something.

…I need a rest.” and he walked off leaving his minions to continue their squabble.

The next day, school was back in session, and all the students were back to normal.

Celesto had the hospitals give the same treatment he gave at the base to all those who were infected by the jinx rays. Though, many of the students were now rather skeptical about food from the school cafeteria. Many even brought their own lunches from home.

The rangers were glad to see everyone back to normal, but they all had to split up to their own respective classes.

Twilight, Rainbow and Sunset had Lightning’s History class that morning.

As Twilight took her seat she confronted by The Jazzies. Nikki spoke to her with a strict and deep sneer, “Listen here, Sparkle… I don’t know what your game is, but you stay away from Lightning. He’s mine.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow, “O… kay…”

What she didn’t notice was Amber and Dionne placing two fake spiders on her knapsack as a final attempt to prank at her, but Sunset and Rainbow saw it and took the spiders. “Hey, back off.” Rainbow said.

Nikki’s face turned red for another prank being ruined.

“Knock it off with the pranks, Nikki. It’s already childish enough!” said Sunset. “Oh, yeah, what are you going to do about it?” Nikki asked sarcastically.

“Ah-Ahem…!” Lightning cleared his throat, promoting Nikki to slowly turn around, and she immediately went bashful, “Oh, Lightning…”

“It’s “Mr. Dawn” to you… Ms. Trent. Kindly take your seats, all of you.”

“Yes sir…” Nikki said in almost a coo, much to Lightning’s annoyance, as well as the others. Nevertheless the students all took their seats, and Nikki felt a little awkward, “I still say it’s like I’m jinxed.” she grumbled.

The rangers and Twilight heard her, and snickered softly; even Lightning couldn’t help but smile a snickering grin while his back was turned.

Episode 20: Digital Dangers: Part 1

Author's Note

-Before any of you start with me about the whole "CROSSOVER TAG" again. I have explained this before; I have already used up the six tag limit. I CANNOT put it in, nor will I change one of the existing ones to do so, and even still, this IS NOT a true crossover. Despite there being elements of Digimon in it now, it's only a couple of eps (It's not a true crossover) Therefore, there will BE no Crossover tag

-POWER RANGERS DIGITAL: Was my second ever successful Power Ranger Team for fanfiction (More will be explained as you read)

-I'm quite aware of what Kari became 25 years later, but this is MY fiction, and I like her better like this. (I even drew a few pictures, and shared them with people and told them of my idea... and they actually DID picture Kari doing it.

Episode 20: Digital Dangers: Part 1

EPISODE TWENTY

One night, it had just gone dark on Mystic Island and the stars were popping up in the skies. Most of the people had gone home and to bed, and those who were still awake and working had no idea of what was about to happen…!

In the open fields on a quiet part of the island, away from the city, a dark and eerie creature landed in the meadows. She was pale gray and dressed completely in black, with black shredded wings, chains worn around her clothes, and her left arm had a large claw with red sharp nails.

On her clothes, next to a bright white skull, was a red army ribbon was a Japanese marking on it, meaning she was possibly part of a large group?

She looked around to make certain she was not followed. “I have lost them!” she said to herself. “I may be strong now, but I require more to reach my Mega form. Then, I will have all the power I will need.”

She paused, and shut her eyes looking deeply inside of her evil heart, as if she were remembering a battle from way back.

“It has been such a long time, but finally, after all these years, I shall make the rangers pay for destroying my master.

I will rebuild his empire, and carry out the will that would have been his, and no one; not any Digi-Destined or Power Ranger shall stop me now!”

She held out her arms and shouted, “DARKNESS WAVE!” unleashing a wave of dark smoke at the ground, and summoning forth a horde of bat-like creatures, far scarier and more wicked looking than any Lingo. “Come, my pets…” she said to them “We have much to do. Get me as much energy from these humans as you can!”

She rubbed the white skull on her outfit which pulsated brightly, and she snickered wickedly at what she had in mind.

Meanwhile, far away in Japan, in a town called Obadia. It had only gone midday. A young man thirty years-old, was pulling a Noodle Cart down the street, calling, “Noodle-Noodle! Come get your Noodles!”

People nearby who heard him and smelled the heavenly scent of his cooking, formed large crowds wanting to sample the man’s delicious cooking.

“Hail to you, Davis!” a young man said.

“Your noodles are the greatest!” added a woman.

Everyone cheered, and the man rubbed the back of his head feeling a bit shy. Still he made quite a load of money from his business while singing, “I’m a rich man… getting richer…”

He was interrupted by his cell-phone ringing. “Hello, Davis Motomyia.”

“Davis, it’s Izzy; I think I found where she went.”

Davis immediately looked concerned. “Do the others know yet?”

“I’ve told them, but they’re all still at work right now, but you can excuse yourself easier, and we figured you could go and investigate. I’ve already sent you what you need back at your office.”

“Right, I’m on my way. Tell all the others to standby and wait for me to call them if it’s that bad.”

He quickly rushed with his wagon to a large building he owned where he ran his large business of Noodle Carts, products and factories around the world. He quickly dashed to his office on the top floor, just in time to see the computer on his desk flashing brightly, and there on his desk appeared a small white device with red edges.

“My Digi-Vice and morpher.” he said to himself as he took it. “I never thought I’d need these again, but so be it!”

He quickly informed his secretary simply that he had a huge emergency to tend to and he wouldn’t be back for a while.

After that, he strapped the Digi-Vice Morpher to his wrist and held it to the computer screen. At once, a strange looking gate appeared on the screen. “Digi-Port OPEN!!” Davis shouted, and he vanished in a flash of light, into the computer.

(Que Intro)

That night on Mystic Island, a young couple was strolling down the streets in the city on a romantic date. “Do you really love me that much?” the woman asked.

“Sure do, hon…” the man replied, and then he turned and held out a ring to her “…And I want to keep making you happy for the rest of my life.”

His girlfriend burst into tears of happiness and threw her arms around him. Just as they were about to share a kiss they were surrounded by the bat-creatures. The woman screamed, and her boyfriend looked furious and ready for a brawl. “Stay behind me!” he said to his girlfriend, and then glared and sneered at the creatures “You punks got some nerve, you know that!”

The batguys growled and sneered back and looked ready to fight, but really the took the couple into their clutches and began to magically drain them of energy, leaving the two feeling weak and tired.

Elsewhere, more of their comrades were doing the same thing; sneaking up on people and draining their energy, causing a big ruckus in town.

Their leader appeared in the streets and absorbed the energy into her body, making the white skull glow brighter than ever. “All this human energy, I LOVE IT!!” she screeched.

Many humans who saw her screamed and ran as fast as they could, much to her delight. “Yes, run, it only makes your energy warmer for me!”

“Stop!” shouted a voice. The creature turned and saw Sunset and the Starfleet Rangers, minus Lightning.

“The rangers…?! How can this be?” the creature shouted, but she took a good look at them and realized, “Wait, something is different. You are not the rangers I know.”

“Well, whoever or whatever you are…” said Sunset “You’re going down for what you’ve done to these people!”

“No one threatens LadyDevimon!” the creature sneered, and she shouted for her batguys, “Get them!”

The batguys charged forth and the rangers rushed at them, but they soon found that these creatures were hardly like facing the Lingos. They were much slicker in speed and able to dodge and evade attacks, and they felt much tougher than the Lingos too; a simple punch made sparks fly.

“What’s with these guys?” groaned Rainbow “It’s like touching fire!”

“We can’t give up!” said Buddy.

So they all continued to fight, and they all were losing badly, much to Ladydevimon’s delight. She snapped her fingers calling the batguys off. “My turn, now. I could use a good warmup.”

Fluttershy shuddered as the villainous crept forth.

“Steady Fluttershy,
Keep your courage high.” said Rhymey.

LadyDevimon hissed like a snake, making Fluttershy only want to cower more, but she like the others knew they couldn’t just let her get to them. “Let’s get her!” shouted Sunset.

The rangers charged forth and put up valiant effort, but LadyDevimon swerved and evaded all their attacks almost effortlessly “Is this the best you can do? How pathetic!

…BLACK WING!” Her left arm seemed to form into a long sharp spike, much to the rangers worry. “Weapons ready!” shouted Sunset, and one by one they grabbed their gear.

Sunset: “Star Scepter!”

Buddy Rose: “Plasma Whip!”

Rainbow Dash: “Sonic Cannon!”

Rhymey: “Raid Blade!”

Fluttershy: “Strong Shield!”

LadyDevimon only laughed, “You think those little toys are impressive; well I don’t!”

The brawl continued.

At the tower Vulcan had been observing everything with deep interest. “Who commissioned this creature?” he asked to his minions, but they were just as astonished as he was. “I’m afraid this creature is not listed in the prison databanks, sir.” said Bronc. “Our computer is unable to identify her as well. We don’t know who she is, what she is or where she came from.”

“Whatever…” said Marla “Whoever she, she could seriously use a fashion sense. Black is so last millennium.”

“Too bad the rangers can’t seem to keep up with her.” said Keto “It’s nice to see them finally getting beat up.”

Vulcan only continued to watch the fight wonder who this creature really was, where did she come from, and most importantly; what was she after? “Still…” he said sinisterly “We’ll let things go for the moment. Perhaps the rangers will finally have met their match.”

He snickered softly.

Sunset and Rainbow fired their weapon blasts, but Lady-Devimon swerved and leapt into the air. “Oh, no, you don’t!” shouted Buddy, and he lashed his whip straight at her.

“Oh, yes, I do! STUN WHIP!” LadyDevimon shouted, and she sent a shocking electrical wave at the whip sending it back at Buddy, hitting him hard and causing his suit to power down.

“Buddy!” cried Sunset!

Buddy wasn’t hurt, but deeply concerned, and all he could was watch helplessly as LadyDevimon ruthlessly continued to attack his friends.

Rhymey went at her with his sword, but she parried it with her spike-arm, and then struck him hard and he powered down.

“That’s it! Now I’m mad!” shouted Rainbow “Sonic Cannon, full power… FIRE!!”

Kapow! Her strong attack hit LadyDevimon hard

“Bullseye!” Rainbow rejoiced.

“Great shot!” commented Sunset.

Fluttershy then looked ahead at the smoke and cried, “Look…!”

As the smoke cleared, LadyDevimon had in fact been damaged by the blast, but she was still standing and seemed infuriated! “It’s not nice to hit a lady!” she hissed.

“I don’t believe this!” cried Rainbow.

“STUN WHIP!” LadyDevimon shouted, shocking the girls with the same electrical attack, knocking them all down and de-morphing them as well.

“You girls okay?” Buddy asked as he and Rhymey ran over to help them up. The girls were alright, but all the rangers were concerned now, and LadyDevimon hissed at them all. “You may not be the rangers I long to destroy, but you will do nicely as come one step closer to conquering this world and avenging my master!”

The rangers all huddled together, completely unable to fight back. “Get ready…” Sunset said as they all inched towards a bench by a bus stop.

“Farewell!” sneered LadyDevimon “POSION WAVE!” she unleashed a wave of poisoning smog straight at the rangers, resulting in a big explosion!

LadyDevimon was most confident she had destroyed them as she laughed manically! “That was invigorating.” She then motioned for her batguys to follow her “We have much to do and so little time!”

Fortunately, the rangers had survived. Just before the attack had hit the slipped through a secret jump tube near the bench and escaped to the safety of their base.

Lightning was there and helped treat their small injuries, but he felt ready to kick himself for not being there to help them. “When I first heard of people collapsing in the streets, I helped them to the hospital and get to safety, I couldn’t just leave them.”

“It’s okay, Lightning. You were still helping other people.” said Sunset “Besides, I don’t think it would’ve made too much a difference if you’d have been there anyway.”

“She’s right.” agreed Buddy “That LadyDevimon threw us around like ragdolls. It would’ve happened to you too.”

Twilight was working on the computer, going over the recorded images, and keeping tabs on LadyDevimon and the condition of the city.

“How’s it look?” asked Spike. Twilight shook her head “I’ve never seen anything like her before. My scans can’t identify her like the monsters we’ve faced.”

“Then that means she’s not working for Vulcan.” said Krysta.

Everyone, even the rangers looked at the monitors and saw LadyDevimon and her batguys continuing to absorb energy from humans, but that was pretty much all they were doing it seemed. They weren’t attacking the city or making any attempts to destroy it at all.

“This doesn’t make any sense.” Rainbow “Who is this walking banshee?”

“More importantly,
What is she?” asked Rhymey.

“…She is a Digimon.” said a voice. Everyone turned and saw a young man standing at the entrance to the room. “…And I’m here to help you stop her.”

“Who are you?” asked Buddy.

“Davis Motomiya: Former Digi-Destined, Noddle Entrepreneur, and Former Red Digital Ranger.”

Hearing that he was a former power ranger immediately sparked their interests, but of course they were also concerned. “How do we know you’re telling the truth?” asked Sunset.

“How did you even get into our base?” added Fluttershy.

Celesto came into the room and answered “…I let him in.” he approached Davis and shook his hand. “It’s good to see you again.”

Davis smiled, “Likewise, Celesto.”

“You two know each other?” Spike asked “Oh… uh I um…”

“It’s alright, Spike. He knows you can talk.” Celesto assured him “He also knows everything about us as well. You can trust him.”

He explained that he and Davis were business associates, which was how they knew one another. “But I got to admit…” said Davis “When I heard about this whole Starfleet, and aliens and stuff, I was almost actually surprised, but that’s beside the point. We need to talk.”

Everyone sat down at the table and Davis explained as much as he could, about Digimon-- short for “Digital-Monsters” that came for a world contained within certain computer networks, and how he and his friends, and others before him traveled through and from that Digital World, teaming up with their own Digimon partners to become The Digi-Destined-- a band of chosen heroes to help protect the Digital World from evil doers

Everyone, especially Twilight found this to be most incredible. “A whole world contained in computers?” Twilight cried “I’ve been into computer science for years and never dreamed such a thing!”

“Me neither.” said Lightning “I’ve been all over the world and, I thought discovered about the dimensional Universe was amazing, but this… this is almost unbelievable.”

“Well, actually this as real as it gets.” said Davis. He looked at Sunset “Kind of like how I can believe you’re some alien pony from another dimension I’ve never heard of, but believe in now.”

“Thanks… I guess.” said Sunset.

“What about LadyDevimon?” asked Krysta “What do you know about her?”

Davis went silent for a moment and clenched his fists, “She’s no ordinary one. I’ve seen her before… way back.

Many years ago, an evil disgraced army general-- Conan Lockhart, a weapon-obsessed, power-hungry madman-- He invaded the Digital World, and set up his own army base to capture Digimon. Seeing them as nothing more than power weapons he could use to gain power and conquer both worlds. He transformed them into horrible creatures. Worse than that, his technology had given them a special protection, making any all ordinary Digimon attacks completely ineffective on them.

However, an unfortunate side-effect to this protection made them more vulnerable to human-power. So my friends and I created our own Power Ranger tech and stuff, and that’s how I came to be a ranger. After many struggles, we beat Lockhart’s army and sent that creep to his doom…

Unfortunately, he had a Digimon Partner, a Black Gatomon, whom escaped and went into hiding for many years training to become stronger. She broke into the human world and discovered a way to absorb human energy to help her Digivolve-- grow to her next stage of evolution.

Now she’s a LadyDevimon, an Ultimate Level. She appeared before us in Japan, and we gave chase, but she suddenly found that she wasn’t strong enough to conquer us yet and fled to find more energy. We lost sight of her and tracked her here to this island.

If she really wants to conquer this world she plans to absorb more and more energy until she can Digivole again to reach her Mega form, and when that happens she’ll be really hard beat.”

Everyone stared at him, wide-eyed and mouths hanging open as if they had seen a ghost. “We’ve already faced her. She’s already hard to beat.” said Sunset.

“Which means we can’t let her get the power she needs.” added Buddy.

Davis agreed, “But we’re going to need help from my friends. Only altogether will we have a better chance, especially what we can offer you. I need to call them at once.”

He got out his cellphone and called in to make long-distance calls. “First: My wife, Kari; the pink ranger. Originally she said she wanted to be a kindergarten teacher, but she had a change of mind down the road. Now she’s a pediatrician.”

Far away in Obadia, Kari was giving a checkup to a little boy.

“Take a deep breath for me.” she asked kindly, and her patient did as he was told. “Okay, that sounds great. I think we’re all done here.” She handed the boy a lollipop and a sticker for being a good patient. “Thanks Dr. Kari.” The boy said with a smile.

The two shared a warm hug before the boy left to leave with his mother.

Kari sighed happily as she washed her hands in the sink; very content with her job. To her, being a doctor was not only fun, but she still got to teach kids about good health and their bodies, as well as take good care of them.

Suddenly, the phone rang and receptionist called to her. “Your husband is on line two, Doctor.”

She answered the phone, “Hi, Davis…” then suddenly her expression changed to worry when she was told of what was happening. “I’ll be there as soon as I can. Okay, love you!”

Davis continued to call more of his friends.

“Codi Hida: The yellow ranger. A law graduate. He’s got a heck of a stubborn temper, but we can always count on him.”

The young man was just reading some law books in his office, expecting to hear from clients soon, when his phone finally ranger. “Cody Hida…

Hey, Davis, what’s happening?”

“Yolei Ichijouchi: blue ranger. She married my best friend, Ken-- he’s also a ranger and a police detective-- and she’s pretty much just a mother and housewife, but we don’t hold it against her.”

Yolei answered the phone while holding a crying baby in her arms, and while her two year old daughter was running wild among the house. “I said… I’LL BE THERE AS SOON AS I CAN!” she yelled into the phone. She hung up the phone and witnessed her daughter breaking a flower vase, and her little baby son sneezed down her back. “Oyi-vay!” she groaned.

“I asked her to tell Ken to come with us.” said Davis “Now the Green Ranger, TK. He became a novelist.”

TK was sitting at his desk in his home office trying to come up with a new chapter for his latest novel. “What about-- No, that’ll never work.”

His phone rang. “Davis…?

…?! Alright, I’m on my way.”

“Well, that’s that.” Davis sighed “It’ll take them a while to get here. They have to get their affairs in order and grab their gear and all that.”

“Which means we need to make a plan
And do whatever is that we can.” suggested Rhymey

Davis agreed, and he held out his D3-Morpher and with the press of a button, he transferred some of his digital energy into the rangers’ morpher badges. “That’ll help give a small edge, but it won’t last long. Hopefully just long enough from my friends to get here.”

Twilight worked at the computer and came up with an idea. “Since LadyDevimon is gathering human energy, maybe if we keep away from the people she’ll start to run low.”

Celesto thought it over. “We can pinpoint where LadyDevimon will strike and get all the people away from there. It won’t be easy, but it may do the trick.”

“We’ll have to be careful though.” said Davis “She’ll still be able to get energy from us. It probably be best if we didn’t morph just yet to preserve our power.”

Krysta couldn’t help but sigh, “It’s going to be a long night.”

Celesto contacted the police and arranged for an area evacuation, and most of the rangers helped keep other people clear of the area.

Sunset and Davis stayed hidden behind a stone wall fence outside a big office building. The entire area was surrounded by police tape and the building was empty.

Sunset contacted the others, “Is everyone evacuated?”

“All clear, Sunset.” replied Rainbow “The cops won’t let anyone other than us within a mile around here.”

Davis was glad to hear that, and he checked his D3 as the little black dot that was moving their way. “Here she comes, get ready.”

In almost no time the evil Digimon and her swarm of batguys appeared on the scene. LadyDevimon was most outraged to find the area empty. “There’s not a human in sight!” she growled “How am I supposed to get more energy?”

“You’re not!” Davis shouted as he and Sunset leapt out to face the creatures.

“You…!” LadyDevimon sneered at Davis.

“You didn’t think you’d get away that easy, did you?”

LadyDevimon’s sneer curled into a sinister grin, “Well, at least you saved me the trouble of a trip back. I may not have absorbed all the power I want just yet, but I have absorbed a lot to take out and your little friend!”

“Try it, witch lady!” sneered Sunset.

LadyDevimon growled, and the two red rangers stood ready. “Remember, we’ve got to try and get her to use up energy, but don’t morph.” Davis whispered.

Sunset nodded, and she hoped this plan would work.

“Get them!” LadyDevimon shouted to her batguys, and the creatures lunged forth with herself bringing up the rear!

The rangers both leapt backwards over the wall as the monsters approached. “BLACK WING!” LadyDevimon skewered the wall with her spike arm, shattering it to pieces, but there was no sign of either ranger on the other side.

“Where did they go?” thundered LadyDevimon. “Over here…” Sunset called. The monsters turned and saw the two rangers run inside the building. “After them!” shouted LadyDevimon.

Davis and Sunset decided to split up. “We can throw them off the trail for a bit.”

“Right!” cried Sunset, and they both dashed off to the upper floors just as the monster came crashing through the doors, shattering the glass and breaking the walls.

“Spread out and find them!” LadyDevimon ordered “We’ll find those two rouges even if we have to break this building brick-by-brick!”

She wasn’t kidding! She knew that by beating Sunset and Davis, their teams would be a lot easier to beat.

Meanwhile, the other Starfleet rangers met up outside the building, except for Lightning whom was asked to keep a watch out for the other rangers when they arrived and guide them to the danger zone.

“Looks like they ran inside.” said Fluttershy.

“Gee, what was your first guess; the broken doorway?” grumbled Rainbow.

Buddy contacted the base, “Twilight, are you tracking them?”

Twilight kept a sharp watch on her computer. “I’ve got them. Davis and Sunset are heading for the top floor, but the monsters aren’t far behind.”

“Right, we’ll go in after them.” said Rainbow, but Celesto said “No, don’t go in there. We can’t risk more of you getting in danger, and besides I need you all outside for something else important. I’ve got a feeling it’s going to be needed.

Stand by for further instructions.”

The rangers complied and signed off while looking nervously at the building, hoping their friends were okay.

The monsters were really making a mess inside; breaking through walls, tipping over desks and cubicles, and many more.

“You’re beginning to make me angry, you two sneakers!” shouted LadyDevimon “Come out! We’ll find you!”

She suddenly could hear the sounds of footsteps from the ceiling, from someone running down the hall one floor up.

She grinned and snickered wickedly. “Run faster, it makes your energy more tasteful!”

Davis and Sunset were running down the hall, both feeling bushed from running so far and climbing so many flights of stairs. “Why couldn’t we just take the elevator?” groaned Sunset. “They’d be expecting that.” panted Davis “At least this way we can be more elusive.”

They could see the door to the next flight of stairs up ahead and dashed straight for it, when suddenly the floor behind them burst wide open, and there stood a swarm of the batguys snarling at them.

“Go!” shouted Davis, and he and Sunset dashed for the stairs with the villains on their tails. They chased them down the hall, burning everything in their path to the touch.

Davis and Sunset slammed the door shut, bashing the villains into each other and then proceeded to dash up the stairs and out onto the rooftop only to find even more batguys already there and waiting for them. “Let’s go back!” shouted Sunset.

They turned to head back through the door, but it got blasted by LadyDevimon herself. “Leaving so soon? How rude!” she hissed.

The two rangers were completely surrounded and were spooned back up against the edge of the roof with a thirty story drop below. Sunset’s power still hadn’t fully restored from the last battle, and Davis preferred to preserve what power he had.

“If you had any special ideas, now would be a good time!” said Sunset.

Davis remained silent and just glared the evil creatures down as LadyDevimon moved in closer, liking her lips and ready for a bite. “Dinner is served…!”

To Be Continued…!

Episode 21: Digital Dangers: Part 2

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Episode 23: Vulcan's Robot

EPISODE TWENTY-THREE

Early one morning, Vulcan stood atop his tower. His overcoat fluttered in the breeze as he looked out the miles of ocean surrounding the island “The time is near…” he hissed to himself “After many battles and man failures; I may finally have what it takes to defeat the, rangers.”

He teleported inside and yelled for his minions!

Bronc, Keto, and Marla all rushed to him. “You called, Master?” said Bronc. “Yes.” replied Vulcan “The time has come for me to unveil my work to you all. Come with me.”

The minions, intrigued, followed him to his private lab. “Behold, my masterpiece!” said Vulcan as he flicked on the lights and everyone saw it…!

…A large robot, coated in gold and silver armor, with four arms, and it was loaded with all kinds of weaponry; buzz-saws, small cannons, and a spiked-ball on a chain.

“Whoa!” remarked Keto.

“It’s incredible!” whispered Bronc.

Marla didn’t know what to saw or feel, but she impressed no doubt.

Vulcan explained that using the remains of the volcanic and comet energies from creating Lightning’s powers and stuff, he used it to create his robot which he named “Vulcano”!

“This will prove to be far greater than any prisoner we have sent.” he picked up a remote control, and a type of visor, revealing he would be controlling the Vulcano himself; almost as if he himself were actually going to be fighting the rangers.

“Um, I hate to sound like a downer,” Marla cut in “But what it if doesn’t work?”

Bronc and Keto urged her to be quiet so as not to upset Vulcan, but Vulcan actually snickered, “That’s just the point. You see, in business you can never be too certain your plan will succeed or not.

…I know this especially considering the the number of times you all failed in the past!”

“It wasn’t all our faults.” said Keto “The prisoners are the one who…”

“Never mind!” snapped Vulcan “The point is, in business before you do anything with a new machine or a plan, be sure to test it to see how it works.”

He pressed on the controller and Vulcano began to come to life, and it looked raring to go.

Vulcan laughed wickedly, and the minions laughed too.

(Que Intro)

Later that day, the rangers were visiting their friends in the hospital.

After all this time, they still showed no sign of awakening, but at least their bodies felt warmer, and their wounds had healed nicely, but it would’ve been so much nicer if they were awake.

Lightning gazed down pitifully at Starla. “I can’t begin to think of all the stuff they’ve missed out on.”

Fluttershy looked as if she would cry, such thoughts broke her heart. All the picnics she and her friends had been on, all the activities and events at school, why even school itself. “What if they never wake up!” she cried.

Rhymey placed his hand upon her shoulder saying,

“They will awaken, I know they will.
But we must continue to be strong for them still.”

The others agreed, “And watch…” Rainbow joked as she stood near Pinkie Pie “They wake up and she’ll want to throw us the biggest party ever.”

The others all smiled and sniggered softly, except for Sunset. Everyone saw her by Artie’s bed. It had been really hard on her all this time, and she really wished he were awake. “I miss you so much.” she said softly to him as she held his hand.

She remembered all the wonderful times they had when they first became a couple. She thought it so magically that he could ever have feelings for her, but more magically when she discovered her true feelings for him.

All her life she hardly understood passion and true love, and thanks to him and to all her friends, now she knew, and it was all worth it.

“Please come back to us…” she whispered to Artie “…To me.”

She didn’t even care that the others were watching, or whether if it was even allowed or not. She bent down gently pressing her lips against Artie’s.

All the others thought that was a deep moment; like something in a fairy-tale, but of course her kiss didn’t wake Artie up.

Tears flow down Sunset’s cheeks. Buddy came over and comforted her, holding her close. “Come on, maybe we should go. It won’t do you too good to stay here.”

Sunset tearfully agreed.

They all left the hospital where Twilight was outside with Spike. “How are they?” she asked, but the silence she received and the remains of Sunset’s tearful expression told her, “About the same, huh?”

The others all sighed. “I wish we knew how much longer we had to wait until they woke up.” said Buddy. The others all felt the same, but of course there wasn’t much they could do.

“By the way, how’s the status on the portal?” Rainbow asked Sunset. She shook her head, meaning the connection between the two worlds had not yet been repaired. “I even wrote to Commander Lightning, and he said it will still take time, that and he and his friends are up to their ears in danger tracking all the escaped prisoners.”

Spike shuddered, “Just the thought of that ruffles my fur. You guys only face a few monsters a week, but… imagine facing a few hundred at once!”

Fluttershy could actually see it before her eyes; Monsters! Everywhere she looked she could see monsters of many shapes and sizes, all of them laughing and growling at her.

She whimpered nervously as she quivered.

Even the others couldn’t help but find such a thought horrifying.

Meanwhile, Krysta was flying about, humming and singing softly as she, pretty, much patrolled around the island. The suburbs were quiet, the parks were clean, there didn’t seem to be anything bad happening in the city itself.

Krysta heard the sound of the town clock chiming. “Twelve-O-Clock and all is well.” she said as she stood on a roof ledge. Then he stomach gurgled, “Oh… right on que. Lunch time!” she said, and she was about to take off when suddenly she heard people screaming below.

She looked down and saw Vulcan’s minions all in the street with a swarm of Lingos. All of them causing trouble; terrorizing the citizens and smashing things up causing a huge ruckus as they shouted out for the rangers to appear.

“Come on out, Rangers!” Marla shouted, and she ordered her Lingos to “Destroy!”

Bronc and Keto fired their blasts at the ground and buildings.

Krysta flew off in a heartbeat to warn the rangers on the other side of the city. She found them all walking down the street from the hospital.

“Lightning…! LIGHTNING…!!”

Lightning looked up “Krysta…?”

She soared down so fast she almost crashed onto the sidewalk. She was panting very heavily trying to catch her breath. Lightning scooped her up in his arms as she tried to explain. “Saw the… city… screaming… monst…”

“What is she saying?” asked Rainbow.

“Don’t look at me, I don’t speak bird, if that’s even what it is.” said Spike.

Krysta finally caught her breath, but as she was about to explain, Celesto called the rangers. “Red Alert…! Red Alert!” he said to them over their coms, “Vulcan’s minions are terrorizing downtown. Proceed at once!”

Lightning looked down at Krysta, “Let me guess… THAT’S what you were trying to say?”

“…Duh!” remarked Krysta.

Twilight took Krysta and Spike, “We’ll head to the base. You guys get going.”

The rangers agreed and Sunset called, “Come on guys… It’s Morphin’ Time!”

“STARFLEET MAGIC…!!”

“Cosmic Comet…!”

“… POWER ON!!”

The citizens continued to run in panic, but a little girl dropped her stuffed dog on the sidewalk and wrenched away from her mother to run and pick it up.

“No! Come back!” her mother shouted as she dashed to catch up to her daughter, only to run right into Keto and a few Lingos. “Hi there…” Keto teased, frightening the lady and child.

“Leave them alone!” Sunset shouted as she and the rangers leapt onto the scene. This gave the mother and child their chance to escape.

Bronc snickered, “You certainly took your sweet time getting here.”

“Yeah…? Well it won’t take much time for us to get you OUT of here!” sneered Sunset. The other rangers all agreed.

“Get them!” Marla called to the Lingos.

The rangers all rushed forth!

Rainbow gave a Lingo a huge soccer-kick to the chest sending it crashing into two more.

Fluttershy was surrounded by several other Lingos, but as they all lunged for her at once, she leapt up high at the last moment causing them all crash into each other.

Lightning knocked one Lingo down, then another, and then he jumped and spilt kick another two. “I get a kick out of this.” he joked.

Buddy leapt in and attacked at Marla with his whip. “Hold still, will ya?!” he thundered as he kept swinging and Marla kept dodging. Suddenly, she caught his whip and yanked him towards her. “Why don’t you sit DOWN!” she thundered as she swiped him hard with her sharp nails making sparks fly.

Rhymey fought with Keto, staff against sword. “You didn’t think magic was my only forte, did you?” said Keto.

“So I see,
But you’re smaller than Me.” scoffed Rhymey

CLANG!! The two weapons met in a struggle, and while Rhymey seemed to have the upper-hand, Keto underhandedly cast a mugic on himself. “Song of Fury!” making him stronger, and able to knocked Rhymey back hard.

Sunset fought against Bronc, or rather was dodging and evading his huge fists. Suddenly, she was backed up against a wall. Bronc snickered as he cracked his huge knuckles.

“Uh, we could talk about this…” whimpered Sunset.

“Now where’s the fun in that?” remarked Bronc and he thrust his fists forth, but Sunset rolled to the side at the last moment, and Bronc’s fists went straight through the wall; he was stuck. Sunset saw this as her chance to attack, but Bronc turned his head and shot her with his eye-lasers.

“Sunset…!” Fluttershy cried as she and the others ran to her side and helped her up.

Bronc pulled himself out of the wall with ease and regrouped with his comrades. “You seem to be losing your touch, Rangers.” he teased.

Sunset clenched her fists, “Oh, yeah? We’ll show you!”

The rangers all agreed, but as they charged forth, powerful shots bombarded them from out of nowhere, knocking them all down. “What was that?” snapped Rainbow.

“Look…!” cried Buddy as he pointed on ahead, and the rangers all saw a big hulking robot, Vulcano, stomping its way towards them.

At the base, the others saw it, but they could hardly believe it.

“Who or what is that?” snapped Spike, but much to everyone’s dismay, no matter how hard Twilight tried, “I can’t scan it!”

Celesto clenched his fists, “It must have a special coating! We’ll have no way of knowing how strong it is or what it can do.”

Krysta felt a chill run down her back, “That means the rangers will have to figure this out for themselves!”

The gang had their hopes for the rangers, but didn’t dare leave their stations and kept on working to do whatever they could in case of emergency.

Vulcano glared the rangers down. “That has got to be the weirdest thing I’ve ever seen.” said Rainbow.

“Well take a good long look, Rangers…!” said a voice over a radio. “That voice! cried Fluttershy. “…Vulcan!” growled Sunset. Vulcan laughed.

Vulcan controlled Vulcano from the safety of the tower and viewed everything through the visor. He spoke into a small microphone, calling to the minions, “Return to the tower at once. I’ll handle things now.”

The minions sighed; they were just getting warmed up, but complied with their master’s order, and they vanished out of sight.

“Now then…” Vulcan hissed as he glared at the rangers “…Who’d like to go first?”

The rangers all stood ready to go for it. “Go!” shouted Sunset, and she and the rangers charged forth, while Vulcano remained wear he was, not even moving.

“Attack!” shouted Sunset, and she and each of the rangers aimed powerful punches and kicks mercilessly at the robot’s armor, but of course such pitiful attacks didn’t even move the robot a single millimetre.

“How pitiful…” Vulcan hissed, and he hit the controls…

…Vulcano extended his strong arms and knocked all the rangers back hard, sending them sailing and crashing along the ground.

“Whoa!” Lightning groaned as he held his arm “This thing’s tough.”

“I guess we should’ve expected that.” agreed Sunset, “Everyone, get your weapons out!”

Once armed, the rangers dashed to attack, but they found that even their weapons weren’t good enough either. Rhymey slashed his sword as hard as he could and Buddy gave his whip a heck of a swipe. Sunset and Rainbow blasted him with their weapons charged high.

“Here I come!” said Lightning “Comet Trail… Fire!”

KAPOW!! All those attacks combined made a huge explosion. The rangers looked with excitement, “Did we get it?” asked Fluttershy “Please say we did.” But they all suddenly heard the sound of Vulcan laughing over the radio, and when the smoke cleared, Vulcano had not even a scratch on him.

“I don’t believe it!
He took every direct hit!” growled Rhymey.

“Now, let me show you some real weaponry!” hissed Vulcan “Engage cannons!”

Two cannons on Vulcano’s back took aim. “Watch out!” cried Sunset, and the rangers scattered about as the cannons fired small shots that made big explosions, and though the shots missed the rangers the force of the explosions still knocked them all back hard.

“Launch the buzz-saws!” Vulcan shouted as he hit the controls, and five circular saws were launched like flying discs. They flew furiously like boomerangs, actually curving and made comebacks forcing the rangers to dodge like crazy.

Lightning and Rainbow tried to blast the saws, Rainbow with her cannon, and Lightning with his Comet trail, but the saws took the hits like nothing and kept right on going forth, hitting them both hard.

Fluttershy held up her shield, catching two saws that buzzed furiously against the surface of the shield making showers of sparks, and the force of the push was actually shoving Fluttershy back softly.

“Help me!” she cried.

Rhymey, responding to his girlfriend’s cry came leaping in and took a big swing with his sword knocking the two blades away like baseballs and the two blades plopped onto the ground, having run out of speed, as did all the others.

While the rangers felt a slight relief, Vulcano blasted them with his cannons knocking them all over again. Then, Vulcan activated a special magnet that brought all the saws back to his robot, and launched them again.

Vulcan laughed as he watched the ranger dodge fruitlessly. “I haven’t had this much fun in five-hundred years!”

The minions watched the battle from the monitors in the main laboratory. “A right and a left! OOH, Chi Wawa!” cheered Keto.

“Chi Wawa…?” Marla asked in confusion “How does that even work?”

Keto shrugged.

“Quiet!” snapped Bronc “He’s coming around again!”

He then pressed on the controls and made Vulcano extend the balls on chains on two of his arms.

Swinging the balls wildly, Vulcano dove straight at the rangers. “Let’s move!” shouted Sunset, and she and the others all leapt up, up, up onto high rooftops. “This should give us some space to think of something tot ry.”

Buddy gawked ahead, “Uh… I don’t think so! Look…!” Everyone looked to their horrors as Vulcano was levitating, via rocket-boots. “You didn’t think you could lose me that easy, did you?” teased Vulcan.

Vulcano jumped onto the roof and fought like crazy, swinging his chains and hitting the rangers with the spike-balls and even punching the rangers with his two free arms, knocking them off the roof.

Budd skillfully lassoed his whip round a flagpole sticking out of the building and swung across grabbing his friends forming a human chain allowing them all to land safely in the street.

“Great job, Buddy.” said Sunset.

Buddy gave the team a high thumb, but Vulcano glared at them from above and leapt down “Ready or not, here it comes…!” Vulcan called as he launched the saws and fired the cannons, forcing the rangers to dodge about again.

From the base, the others were watching everything, powerless to help or even come up with a solution.

“They can’t last much longer like this!” cried Krysta.

Twilight continued to try and scan the robot and any possible weakness it had, but to no avail. “Ugh! This is ridiculous!” she groaned as she pounded the keyboard “I can’t come up with anything. Even the Able Boost won’t work against that thing.”

Spike pulled on his ears in frustration. “Man, how much bigger can our problems get!”

Celesto suddenly got an idea from hearing that. “Normally it’s against better principles, but the situation calls for it. Send out the Star Jets! We’re going to fight this machine-to-machine!”

Two of the saws struck Lightning and Sunset.

Vulcano then swung his chains, hitting Rhymey and Fluttershy with the spike-balls, and finally shot at Rainbow and Buddy with his cannons.

The rangers were starting to look and feel pretty beat. Their suits had scorch marks from the numerous attacks they had sustained, while Vulcano had hardly been scratched.

“I don’t know about you guys, but I can hardly take much more of this.” Lightning groaned as he stood.

“Me either.” added Rainbow.

Vulcan laughed, “Getting tired, are we? Well, you’ll all be taken a long rest soon enough!”

Suddenly, the Star Jets zoomed overhead and beamed all the rangers into the cockpits. Lightning in the, newly installed, backseat of Sunset’s jet.

Vulcan grunted softly, “They summoned their zords; just as I hoped they would.” he grinned widely and very wickedly.

The minions could hardly believe this; Vulcan being cool about it.

“I’ll make the robot grow.” said Keto, and he was about to cast his spell, “No…!” Vulcan thundered, causing Keto to slip off his footstool and fall to the floor. “But sir…”

“I said No!” snapped Vulcan “…That will not be necessary this time.”

Marla whispered to Bronc “Has he flipped his lid?”

Bronc shrugged as he didn’t know, but he and the others continued to watch.

The rangers had just finished talking with Celesto over the radio when he called to explain the situation. “We’ll do what we can. Out” Sunset said and she logged off.

Lightning looked out the starboard side. “He’s coming!”

Sure enough, Vulcano was rocketing to catch up with the jets.

“We’re all still way better than he is.” said Rainbow.

“I don’t know if that’ll really make a difference.” whimpered Fluttershy.

Rhymey agree with her,

“She could be right,
He could still be hard to fight.”

Sunset also felt this way, but knowing she couldn’t give up instructed to the others “We’ll try attacking him one at a time. Everyone spread out!”

The rangers agreed and steered their jets in different directions.

“You can’t escape me!” sneered Vulcan, and he launched the saws again, all five of them each chasing after a jet.

“Watch out!” shouted Buddy.

The rangers all pulled hard on their joysticks; they served and dodged as best they could, but still the saws caught up and struck at their jets, making small sparks fly, but still slightly damaging the jets.

“Open fire on him!” shouted Sunset.

“We can’t even get a clear shot at him!” cried Rainbow, and she veered off to avoid a saw blade following her.

Vulcan snickered and activated the canons, firing at the jets and hitting them all hard.

Sunset and Lightning went into a spin-dive. “PULL UP!!” shouted Lightning. Sunset pulled the back as hard, getting her jet out of the spin and pulling up just missing a high rise by meters. “I don’t want to think about how close that was!” she cried.

The saws continued to hit the jets and Vulcano continued to shoot his cannons, bombarding the jets more.

“That does it!” snapped Lightning “Sunset, let me out!”

“What?”

“I’ll get out and try and catch those saw blades, it’ll give you guys an open chance. I have just enough power left to hold out.”

The rangers all felt deeply concerned…

Twilight and Celesto had been monitoring the wavelengths of the communications. “Lightning, that’s too dangerous.” Celesto said trying to discourage him, but it was no use. “Look, it may be the only way to give us an edge. I’m going!” he responded.

“Lightning!” shouted Sunset, but Lightning already reached over to the controls and hit the backseat ejection, shooting himself out of the cockpit.

“Is he crazy?!” snapped Buddy.

“I’d say so.” said Rainbow.

“Gigantify…!” shouted Lightning as he activated his morpher and grew large, landing safely. “All right, time to work!”

He marched up behind the robot and called to it, “Hey Vulcan, over here!”

Vulcan sneered, “Insolent pest!” and he pulled on the controls recalling the saw blades to Vulcano, and then fired them again straight for Lightning.

Of course now that lightning was much larger, the saw were about the size of coins to him allowing him to grab them in his hand “A’rgh!” groaned Lightning; he could still feel the sharp sting of the blades, but he caught them none the less, and threw them up high, blasting them with his comet trail, destroying them, much to Vulcan’s outrage.

“So much for that; He’s all yours, guys!”

“Good job, Lightning.” said Sunset, “Okay, guys; Time to Shine!”

The rangers all agreed and steered towards the robot full throttle.

“I can still take you all on!” shouted Vulcan “ATTACK…!!”

Vulcano rushed forth, firing his cannons, but the jets scattered about. “Here I come!” Buddy shouted as he rushed forth and fired his lasers.

Vulcano got hit hard due to the lasers large size, and was actually starting to look a little damaged.

“Make way!” Rainbow called as she rushed forth and fired her missiles damaging the robot even more.

“I’m not beaten yet!” thundered Vulcan, and he pounded the controls with everything he had.

Vulcano landed on Fluttershy’s jet, ready to smash her to bits with his spike-balls. “No… You… DON’T!!” Fluttershy shouted, and demonstrating an unusual display of boldness; she rammed hard on the joystick, spinning her jet in furious barrel rolls.

Vulcan felt dizzy watching through the visor, and could hardly concentrate.

The robot suddenly slipped off and Rhymey rammed it hard with his jet, bashing it way up high.

“Mess with my girl,
And I’ll give you a hurl!”

“Okay, guys, bring it together!” said Sunset.

“Zords, Combine!”

“Jet Star Megazord, Ready!”

Once the megazord was formed, it immediately drew out its sword. “Let’s finish him!” shouted Sunset.

The megazord then leapt up high straight at the robot, and thrust its sword right through it causing the robot to spark and flare, and it exploded in midair.

Lightning leapt for joy, his huge feet pounded the ground, and the others rangers cheered as well as Sunset declared “…You lose again, Vulcan!”

Back at the tower, the controls and images in the visor had gone dead with the robot’s destruction.

The minions were all trembling with fear that Vulcan would start lashing out in fury at this loss. “I don’t know about you guys, but I’m ready to run!” whimpered Keto.

“Not before me you aren’t!” said Marla.

However, Vulcan didn’t seem angry at all; he was laughing rather hysterically as he pounded the wall like a madman.

“He doesn’t seem that mad to Me.” said Bronc.

The minions all approached their laughing master. He was laughing so hard he coughed and hacked a bit trying to catch his breath.

“Uh… sir…?” Keto asked trying to get Vulcan’s attention. At least he calmed down a bit and wasn’t laughing so hard.

“How can you be laughing? Your plan didn’t work!” said Marla.

“I’m quite aware of that…” Vulcan sneered.

“But sir…” Bronc try to inquire, but he was cut off when Vulcan held up his hand. “I told you all, didn’t… This was merely a test, and regardless of the failure, I now have all that I require.”

The minions were all confused.

“In business, you should always be sure to have a backup; cover your losses… and I have just the thing.”

He showed them all the blueprints of what was surely his ultimate plot, which the minions all took a shine too.

“Wow!” cried Marla.

“Cool!” said Keto.

“Magnificent!” Bronc said in astonishment “When do we begin…?”

Vulcan only snickered.

Meanwhile, the rangers made it back to base.

“Hail the conquering heroes!” Spike sang, and he and Krysta acted like it was a big parade show, hoping around and throwing confetti, but the rangers didn’t seem so optimistic, as was hinted by their deeply concerned looks.

Twilight and Celesto looked exactly the same way.

“Come on, what’s with you all?” asked Krysta “You sent that bucket of bolts to the scrap-heap.”

“Yeah, just barely…” said Rainbow.

Lightning looked down at his bandaged fingers. “I can hardly believe Vulcan would actually send a robot after us.”

Sunset had a sickening feeling in her stomach, the way the battle had gone and how Vulcan nearly crushed them all, “…I think… he was just testing us.”

“It is very possible he was.” agreed Celesto “We have no way of knowing for sure what Vulcan has gained from this, or what he plans to do next, but rest assured… we must be ready for it.”

Everyone agreed, promising to train hard and be ready for whatever lay ahead.

Episode 24: Part 1: Robot, Return, Revenge

EPISODE TWENTY-FOUR

As the days past, the rangers spent their every free moments buckling down and training hard for whatever surprises Vulcan would throw at them.

A whole week had passed since he had sent Vulcano after them, and he hadn’t shown himself since, nor made much of a move to attack the city.

They did push-ups, sit-ups wall climbing, even weight lifting to boost their physical strengths. They even ran through an obstacle course while each carrying heavy water buckets to work on their agility.

Meanwhile, Celesto and his lab staff were working hard to improve the rangers’ weapons and their morphing abilities as best they could. Even still, they couldn’t give them too much of a boost or the surge and strains would have horrible effects on the rangers physically.

Of course Celesto didn’t want them training far too hard that they would over-exhaust themselves, especially considering he wouldn’t allow them to take time off school either. “Nothing is more important in being a ranger than a well-developed mind.” he said, and everyone was inclined to agree; as cunning and as wicked as Vulcan was, and despite his somewhat impressive improvements… he really wasn’t all that smart to them, and that would always be their advantage over him…

…They hoped!

Meanwhile, Vulcan, his minions, and a large army of Lingos were hard at work outside the tower, producing Vulcan’s ultimate plan.

The whole place sounded like a big factory as everyone worked hard welding, fitting, and building whatever it was they were making, but it was big… really big!

“Keep that welding coming!” Bronc shouted to the Lingos, rushing them along, while he himself did programing and wiring.

Marla, being lazy of course just sat on a crate of parts filing her nails. Keto came along and scolded her, “This thing isn’t going to build itself you know!”

Marla simply blew on her nails, “I’m aware of that, but I’m not messing up my manicure, or my hair.”

Outraged and sick of her laziness and vanity, Keto stirred some of the dust with his cape getting it all over her, “Hey!” she screamed. “There, now you’re dirty. Now get to work!” snapped Keto, and walked off before Marla could even try and retaliate.

As for Vulcan, he kept on forging and melting the sources he had from the volcanic and comet energy he had collected, and using his own fire powers to create plates of armor which the Lingos would then take to put together with everything else.

“Oh, this is wicked!” Vulcan snickered. “So perfectly wicked, I can hardly believe it. Once my project is complete, this planet and everything in it will be mine, and not even the rangers will be able to do a thing about it!”

He laughed softly…!

(Que Intro)

Saturday afternoon, Celesto invited the rangers all to his place for lunch, as well as a good rest break from all the hard work and rigorous training. Shining Armor and Principal Cadance were invited too, especially because they wanted to visit the babies.

It felt rather nice just to kick back and relax for a while, but it still ate everyone up; just sitting around and waiting for Vulcan to make his move!

Krysta came back from her patrol around the island, and even found time to visit the mainland for a short spell.

“Anything Krysta…?” Lightning asked. The little bird shook her head, “It’s never been so quiet. It’s almost frightening.”

Vice Prinicpal Luna felt relieved “At least it means everything is still safe; for now.”

Sunset sighed, almost irritably, “A whole week and no sign of anything…! Why doesn’t Vulcan make his move already?”

“Maybe… he’s decided to just give up?” Fluttershy suggested, but you can expect everybody else, even Rhymey gave her the “Don’t be ridiculous” expression, “…Just a thought.” Fluttershy said sheepishly.

“Whatever Vulcan’s up to, I’m sure he’ll unleash it when he’s ready.” Celestia said as she fed the babies their food.

“Do you really think he’s up to something that big?” asked Cadance.

“Most likely so,
That’s all we know.” said Rhymey.

Poor Lightning still couldn’t get over it all, no matter how much the others told him it wasn’t his fault. Then again, they could hardly blame him, especially Twilight and Sunset.

Sunset being reminded of her evil days, and Twilight when she became so obsessed she became Midnight Sparkle.

Shining Armor changed the subject to snap everyone out of their droops. “So… um… Twily, how are things in the base? You cooked up anything new for the team?”

“Nothing really…” his sister replied, and she got out her laptop looking at all her scraped ideas. “Each and every one of them either can’t be done as we don’t have the proper equipment, or it can’t it be done because it’ll hurt the rangers.”

Fluttershy sighed, “If only we had our energizers back. Then we could use our actual Starfleet Powers and things would be easier.” but she and the others knew fully well that the portal was still down

Rainbow was down below in the garden field kicking her soccer ball, “Well…” she called up to everyone “I guess we’ll just have to rely on our own skills. We’ve done okay up to now.”

Buddy seemed calm though as he tended to the flower-beds. He always found time to do some gardening each day and it kept him calm. He treated them all like they were… children to him.

“Don’t worry little ones.” he would say softly to them “We’ll protect you especially.”

Celestia and Celesto admired how calm he was, and how wonderfully he treated the plants; that and they were glad he could treat them as the gardener was off that day.

It made them only worry about whatever was coming even more.

Celesto looked way out to sea and wondered t himself, “What are you up to, Vulcan?”

At the tower, work was continuing, and Marla was whining and complaining as usual. Her sharp nails were now dull and cracked, and darker in color due to all the dust and soot from working. Her hair was all tangled and full of scraps of metal and scorch-marks. “When I finish this I’ll have to spend a week at a salon!” she whined.

Keto only pulled his hat down over his pointed ears to block out her irritating voice and kept on working.

Bronc soon reported to Vulcan, “Construction is completed, Master.”

“Excellent!” said Vulcan “It’s better than I ever imagined.” Hegazed up at his creation; a colossal version of Vulcano, which he called “Vulcano II”, but still, called it simply “Vulcano”: It was as tall as any of the rangers’ megazords were. It had the same weapons it did before, but with newer added weapons-- Laser-Eyes, tractor beams, missiles…

…However Vulcan was able to get all this was beyond a mystery!

Keto and Marla joined the others on the bridge overlooking the robot’s massive head, and they were both mesmerised by how frighteningly wicked it looked.

“Only thing remains now!” Vulcan said, “We need to activate it, but it hasn’t enough energy.”

The minions were confused. “I thought the volcanic and comet energies we got were all that we needed?” asked Keto.

“It is not enough!” snapped Vulcan “To give it complete and full power we need to give it… bio-logical energy; vast amounts of biological energies.”

Marla gulped “You don’t mean… from us do you?”

“Not just from all of you, and myself included… we need a ton of it, and I know just where to get It.” he motioned at the tower hinting all the many prisoners still locked up inside.

Inside, all the prisoners were still hammering and rattling at their cells. Vulcan appeared inside at the top of the tower chuckling at how foolish the prisoners all seemed, but also to check on one very important thing in his private lab.

There was one thing he had created which his minions still didn’t know about, and he wanted to be sure that it would be protected from what was about to happen.

Using his powers Vulcan covered his secret with a special lead blanket that would protect it. “I can’t let your energy be stolen.” he whispered to it.

He then held his arms; under his sleeves were many cuts and scars from when he did his experiments, and the many empty jars of his blood that stood on the workbenches. “A true businessman always makes sure to cover his loses.” he hissed under his breath.

Then he teleported back outside, to his minions. “It’s time! Come with me, all of you.”

Then he teleported inside the massive robot, and his minions followed him.

The Inside of Vulcano II was like a small complex; complete with corridors and hallways, engine room, work-stations, and of course the main control bridge within the robot’s massive head. Unlike the rangers’ zords, the bridge was about the size of two classrooms, and filled with all the natural refinements; consoles, stations, seats including a big one in the center for Vulcan.

A large army of Lingos were already making last checks to see that everything was fine; which it all was.

The minions all took their positions at the front of the bridge, each manning their own respective consoles.

“Engines ready.” said Bronc.

“Systems ready.” added Marla.

“Defenses charged and ready.” said Keto “We’re ready to pull out.”

Vulcan snickered as he took his seat, “…Let’s go!”

POW!! The massive rockets fired from the robot’s massive feet, propelling the large hulk up, up, and away!

The robot could not be traced by any computer or radar, not even the rangers’ technology could spot it on, but two patrol jets flying over the sea for the coastguard; the pilots did see it.

“What the heck is that?”

“I don’t know. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

They were about to report in to HQ about the sighting, but Vulcan could see them and he nodded at Keto.

“Fire!” shouted Keto, and the robot fired two heat-seeking missiles and it’s lasers at the jets, forcing the pilots to eject and drop into the sea on emergency life-rafts.

“Direct hit!” cried Marla.

“That was too easy.” hissed Bronc.

Vulcan snickered, “The weapons work perfectly. Now, set course for Mystic Island, it’s time for the main event!”

Long after lunch, while the rangers stayed at the mansion for a little extra training, Celestia and Celesto were walking side-by-side through the park pushing the two baby carriages softly. It was much too beautiful a day to be working all the time, despite of the impending dangers, plus even Celesto felt a nice walk with his family would do him good from his constant working.

He gazed lovingly at his wife, and she gazed back at him, but the moment was interrupted when Celesto stepped on a twig, snapping it loudly. “What was that?” he snapped as he looked all around.

“Honey, calm down, you just stepped on a twig.” said Celestia. Her husband felt very silly, “Look at me, I’m panicking at every little sound thinking Vulcan’s shown himself.”

Celestia sighed, but the babies cooing from their carriages made both parents lose their worries.

They bent down to softly touch their babies’ faces, when suddenly it got all dark by a shadow covering up the sunlight.

The parents looked up, along with everyone else in the park and in the general area for that.

“What is it?”

“What can it be?”

“I don’t like it one bit!”

People were whimpering in fear or staring in awe at the object, but Celesto and Celestia had that sickening feeling this was it… especially when they heard the sound of a familiar laugh.

“Vulcan!” they both sneered.

“Attention inhabitants of Mystic Island…!” Vulcan announced “You are now observing my greatest creation, one that I shall use to destroy your island, and conquer your planet! But being a reasonable being of business, I offer you a bit of mercy; Surrender now and accept your places by my side… as slaves, and become part of what shall be the greatest planet-broking business in the galaxy!

…If not, then prepare to be wiped out!”

His voice was so loud and the robot was so big, the rangers could see it from the mansion, and all of them clenched their fists tightly, realizing this was the moment they’d been waiting for.

“Look at the size of that thing!” cried Shining Armor.

“This is it…!” said Sunset, “Everyone ready?”

The rangers all bravely nodded.

“I’ll head to the base.” said Twilight “Once I’m there, I’ll send you the Ultra-Star Megazord.”

“We’re coming too.” said Cadance. Shining Armor agreed. They with Twilight and the pets headed for the big tree concealing the secret-elevator that lead down to the underground labs.

“Good luck guys.” said Spike.

“Please be careful!” added Krysta.

Then they were gone, while Vice-Principal Luna agreed to stay behind at the mansion to get in contact with her sister and her brother-in-law. “I cannot seem to reach their cell-phones. The signal is being jammed.”

“Keep trying, we’re on our way.” said Sunset. The others all stood ready and shouted together, “…IT’S MORPHIN’ TIME!!”

“Morphing Sequence, Ready!”

“STARFLEET MAGIC… POWER ON!!”

“Cosmic Comet… Power On!”

Meanwhile, the minions had lost patience waiting for the people to answer. “Can’t we just zap them all now?” Keto asked. “Be still!” sneered Vulcan “The rangers should be here any moment. That is what we are waiting for.”

Suddenly, the Ultra-Star Megazord landed near Vulcano.

“They’re here!” cried Celesto.

“Thank goodness!” added Celestia.

Many of the people cheered for the rangers’ arrival as well, but some were rather skeptical due to the megazord being a tad bit smaller than that of Vulcan’s robot.

The rangers remained undeterred! “Okay, Vulcan! This time you’ve gone too far!” Sunset called to him.

Vulcan, able to hear them on his frequency, snorted, “On the contrary; the day you rangers first stood in my way was going too far! But this time you’ll find victory is beyond your grasp! I’ve made great modifications to Vulcano. Even your strongest weapons won’t be able to even dent it!”

At the base, Twilight and friends were able to hear over the radio as well, and Twilight, once again, was unable to scan the robot and calculate anything about it, and she pretty much didn’t have to as pretty much anyone could tell just by looking at the massive robot that it was much stronger than the last one they fought.

“Guys, it’s no good. I can’t seem to calculate a weakness.” Twilight said to the rangers.

Buddy sighed and said “Well, I guess we’ll have to give it everything we’ve got.”

“Well, here goes something, then.” said Sunset “Go!”

The megazord charged forth, aided by its rocket thrusters, but Vulcan and his minions only laughed from their bridge, but they didn’t make any attempt to even touch the controls. They just sat back and watched the megazord fruitlessly punch, kick and smash at the robot’s thick armor. Sparks did fly, however…!

“Stop…! Stop…!” Fluttershy cried as she read the damage meters “We’re only causing damage to ourselves.”

“Ugh! Every hit we sent,
And we didn’t make a dent!” groaned Rhymey.

“Let’s try the weapons.” suggested Lightning.

“Right…” said Rainbow, “I’ll aim straight for the head, where the bridge is!”

Vulcan watch the megazord rocket up higher, and he only snickered and made a teasing face at the rangers, still giving no orders to fight back or anything. “Come and get me!”

The rangers felt their bloods boiling, but they charged up their weapons to full.

“Energy Charge, Ready!”

“Weapons fully-charged!” said Sunset “Let him have it!”

Everyone agreed, and all six shouted together, “STAR-BLAST WAVE… FIRE!!”

POW!! The massive beam was launched and hit the bridge full-force. While the light was rather blinding and all the villains inside covered their eyes from the glare… in the end, not even a scratch was made on the special surface.

“It didn’t work!” cried Celestia.

“The Ultra-Star Megazord isn’t powerful enough!” added Celesto.

The rangers were all deeply in shock and couldn’t this was happening, while the villains sat ready, and Vulcan hissed “…Now!” and his minions hit their controls making the robot move, ready to swung it’s two back arms at the zord.

“Look out!” Sunset cried. The rangers rammed on the steering and veered the megzord to the right just missing the two arms.

“You can’t get away that easy!” shouted Keto, and he raised the other two arms with the spike-balls on chains. “Watch it!” shouted Buddy, but the zord already got hit extremely hard, twice!

The rangers were rocked about hard as the megazord tilted to the side. “We’re going over!” cried Rainbow!

CRASH!! The zord hit the ground so hard making everything nearby shake. Many of the people already took a well gained hint and began to run for their lives.

“Come Celestia! Bring the children!” cried Celesto!

From on Vulcano’s bridge, Marla laughed at the people, “Where do you think you’re all going?” and she activate the tractor-beam, which fired from the robot’s massive chest cannon, shrouding all the people below, including the Grandruler family, sucking them and all the civilians up and inside.

“No! The civilians!” shouted Sunset.

At the base, all the friends and staff gasped in horror…

…as did Luna as she watched everything live on the news! “No! Celestia, Celesto, the children!”

Vulcan laughed wickedly, “These humans will do nice to supply us with more power.”

“Vulcan! You let those people go!” Sunset shouted at him.

“Ha!” sneered Vulcan “You’re in no position to make demands.”

The rangers felt themselves ready to explode and furiously made the megazord stand on its feet.

“Not a smart move!” said Bronc and he fired the robot’s laser eyes shooting the megazord down on its back again.

The megazord rocked so hard, Sunset fell out from the cockpit.

“Sunset!!” cried Lightning.

Sunset fell down, down, down through the trees, softening her fall a bit. She still landed with a huge thud and her suit powered down automatically.

The next thing that happened, the robot fired its tractor-beam again, ensnaring the megazord with the other five rangers still aboard! “No!!” cried Sunset.

The rangers held on to whatever they could as the felt the megazord rocking about as it was lifted off the ground.

“I’ve got them!” cried Marla “They’re not getting away!”

“Of course not…! That’s what I had it planned for.” hissed Vulcan “Not only do we now have the rangers as our prisoners, we’ve captured their zords as well; a profitable gain to expand this business! The very weapons they used against us, we shall now use to conquer the planet!

…Take us up, now! We’ll prepare for things privately.”

With that, the rockets fired, and the robot took off, up, up, way up and into space, taking the rangers, their megaozrd and all the civilians with it!

“NO!! GUYS…!!” Sunset screamed as the robot went higher and higher, disappearing from eye’s view, and bringing Sunset’s eyes to tears.

Krysta was hammering and pounding on the monitors screaming, “No!! No, Lightning!! LIGHTINING…!!”

Twilight grabbed her and pulled her away from the screens so she wouldn’t damage them. “Krysta, stop… Stop it!” she cried, trying not to burst into sorrow herself “…They’re gone!”

Shining Armor angrily pounded the work bench. Cadance grabbed the front bangs of her hair in outrage and frustration!

“I’m dreaming!” cried Spike “I gotta be dreaming! Come on, Spike, wake up! WAKE UP!” but it was no good what he was doing.

As for Sunset, all she did was waltz up to where the robot and the megazord were standing. The ground was all charred from the rocket thrusts.

She fell to her knees and pounded the ground furiously as more tears fell from her eyes. “I’m sorry, guys!” she sobbed softly “I’m so sorry!”

To Be Continued…!

Episode 25: Part 2: Launch Time

EPISODE TWENTY-FIVE

Sunset was still grieving most miserably at the sight where the battle had taken place. This was extremely heart-breaking to her; first she lost half her friends when they got hit by that explosion landing them in the hospital in comas, including Artie, and now they rest of her friends were taken by Vulcan into space, including the Grandruler’s, their babies and all the civilians that were nearby. Worst of all, because Vulcan had the megazord with him, she couldn’t even try to follow him up there.

“Guys…” she cried softly “I’m sorry… I’m so sorry!

She was so lost in her misery that she didn’t hear her com go off or Twilight calling to her. “Sunset, Sunset, answer me. We need to you come back to base.”

At the base, everyone viewed her on the monitors, but she didn’t move at all. “Poor girl, she’s way out of it.” said Shining Armor.

“I don’t think I can blame her.” said Cadance. She too felt just as crushed losing her friends, as well as her family to Vulcan.

“Here, let me try something.” said Spike as he walked near the mic, “You all may want to cover your ears.”

Everyone blinked in confusion at him. “Do it!” he snapped, and everyone complied, covering their ears tightly. Then Spike drew in a huge breath and howled loudly into the mic…

…Creating a huge high frequency feedback. “A’RGH…!!” Sunset yowled as she snapped out of her trance covering her ears.

She finally answered her com, “What was that for?” she asked sternly.

“Sunset, I know things are hard now, but you’ve got come back to base.” replied Twilight “Once you get back we can try to figure this out.”

Sunset sighed, “Okay, I’m coming.”

She still felt a little distraught, but she stood up, and took a minute gaze sharply into the sky, clenching her fist angrily a she thought of Vulcan and what he had done to her friends.

Then she ran for the nearest jump-tube.

(Que Intro)

Way up high, Vulcano II was orbiting the Earth, with the Ultra-Star Megzord attached to it by walkways and grippers.

Vulcan’s minions were viewing the monitors of the prison deck below. All the people they had captured were held within cells like at the prison tower, held in by bars and a powerful force-field projected by the comet energy.

The rangers, un-morphed, were each thrown into individual cells, shielded by a barrier that matched their proper color.

“This is just too good!” Marla laughed “We’ve finally got all the rangers locked up, and we can torture them like flies in a jar.”

“Don’t get carried away, Marla.” said Bronc “You heard what Vulcan said; we must have the rangers alive and well as they are vital in programing their own zords, as well as supplying energy into Vulcano to keep us in business.”

Marla grumbled. How she longed to get back at the rangers for all the times they had trounced her and her comrades. “You always have to ruin my fun.” she muttered to herself.

Keto checked the monitors viewing the rangers in their cells, when he noticed something! “Hey! We don’t have all the rangers!”

The others turned round sharply, “What are you talking about?” Marla asked as she came over to the console, shoving Keto out of his seat. “See, there’s Comet Ranger, Pink, Yellow, Blue, and there’s Green… and--” she gasped when she realized the final cell next to Buddy’s was empty; there was no Red Ranger!

“I don’t believe this!” cried Marla.

The doors in back slid open, “Neither do I!” snarled Vulcan “You let the Red Ranger escape! Without her, we cannot pilot all of the star-jets!”

“But Master…” Marla whimpered “I could’ve sworn she was stuck in the megazord when I took it in with us.”

Vulcan flared up as if to broil her to the bone, which frightened Keto and Bronc as well, but Vulcan suddenly calmed down, “Never mind…” he walked over to his chair “We still have enough good resources anyway, and besides, she’ll be bound to come after us.”

“I see…” hissed Bronc “And when she comes, we shall be ready for her.”

“Exactly.” said Vulcan “In the meantime, prepare the humans for their… extractions, and get ready to attack!”

The civilians were all frightened and outraged.

Baby Castor and Baby Leilani were crying their little lungs out in fright of the darkness and coldness of the cells. Celestia held the babies ever so close doing all she could to stop their cries, but really, she herself was as frightened as they were, but tried be brave for them.

Meanwhile, her husband tried every communications device he had on him, but nothing worked. “It’s no use. I can’t get a signal.” He angrily kicked the wall of the cell, which made the babies cry louder.

“Honey, the children!” his wife scorned.

Celesto felt ashamed, and took hold of his crying baby girl trying to soothe her, but he never felt so helpless before; unable to see any way out of this predicament, but he seemed more concerned about all the other prisoners, preferably the rangers.

Lightning slammed his bed hard into the bars and the barriers hoping to break them, but the bars were super strong, and the force-field just repelled him off each time. “It’s no good! It’s like trying to get to get past the Great-Wall of China!”

The others were able to hear and communicate with each other, but poor Fluttershy was so scared, she curled up in a corner of her cell and weeping tragically. “I don’t like it here. I really don’t!” she cried.

“Oh, Fluttershy,
Please don’t cry!” said Rhymey. He hated seeing her cry so much, and hated it more that he couldn’t be next to her to try and comfort her. The sobs almost made him feel like crying!

Rainbow angrily pounded the wall of her cell, “If only we could morph we could try and blast our way out of here, and break every cell in Vulcan’s body!”

“We can’t, Rainbow.” said Buddy “Our morphers won’t work while we’re behind these force-fields. We’ve already tried.”

“Quite correct rangers!” Vulcan said over the intercom. The entire prison area went silent as everyone gazed up. The rangers’ and the Grandrulers’ expressions hardened at the sound of his wicked voice.

He spoke to the civilians, “Hope you’re all comfortable in your… accommodations.” he chuckled “There’s something I just thought you’d all like to know, I’ve built one final special edition into your cells.”

With that, the walls of every cell began to glow, but the rangers’ cells stayed normal. “What’s happening now?” cried Fluttershy.

Within each cell, the civilians began to glow too, and some of them were starting to feel a bit woozy. “Their energy is being sapped!” cried Lightning. “Right again…” Vulcan hissed over the intercom “You see it takes quite a lot of power and energy to work this creation of mine that we all sit in, I hope you don’t mind.”

He laughed and cackled as the civilians lost more of the energy by the second. “Stop it!” shouted Rainbow “If you don’t stop I’ll…!” she was cut off when her cell as the other ranger cells began to glow as well, levitating them up and holding them all in fields of light in each of their respective colors.

“I can’t move!” cried Buddy.

“I like it,
Not one bit!” said Rhymey.

“…I’ve fixed up something extra special for you, rangers.” Vulcan said to them, and wait until you find out what it is.

Lightning had a horrible feeling he knew what was about to happen!

Vulcan snickered and turned off the monitor. “How are the power levels coming?” he asked to his minions.

“Power steady and weapons charged.” replied Bronc “Ready when you are, sir.”

Marla and Keto sat anxiously at their stations, and Vulcan nodded at all three of them, “Let’s level this planet once and for all!”

He laughed wickedly as outside… the robot’s lasers and cannons were charged and fired upon the Earth below.

Towns in countries and states across the world suffered serious blows, and the armed forces jumped into action; spotting the robot through telescopes, they launched powerful missiles straight into orbit in attempt to shoot the robot down… completely unaware of the many civilians onboard!!

Not that it mattered anyway; the minions could see the missiles coming straight at them. “Oh, no you don’t!” hissed Keto. He inserted his staff through a large outlet in his console, “Song of Ember Nova!”

POW!! The robot launched the mugic out, and the mugic unleashed a wave of fireballs, even in void of space, and shot at half the missiles, blowing them to smithereens.

More missiles were still coming, but Marla snickered and pulled on her controls, making the robot swing its spike-balls, smashing the missiles like they were bugs.

The armed forces saw everything, and their leading officers were outraged. “Prepare to fire another round!” shouted the Supreme General. His officers complied and set another slew of missiles to be launched.

The countdown was started, when suddenly another officer burst into the control room yelling, “Stop the launch!”

“What’s going on?” the General demanded to know, but the officer passed him a message from Washington, informing him that were civilians onboard that thing! “STOP THE LAUNCH!!” the general shouted.

It was Vice Principal Luna who got hold of Celesto’s phonebook and called Washington to warn the forces of the situation.

Once that was done, she immediately headed to the base beneath the mansion grounds to join the others. “They have agreed to hold the attack for now, but they cannot see any alternative and may start up again soon!”

“Monsters!” snapped Cadance “Don’t they realize there are innocent people up there?”

“Yeah, but what about the rest of the world?” asked Shining Armor, and he motioned at the monitors that hacked into the news reports showing that many major cities and countries around the world had suffered massive damage from the shelling, and more and more places were being attacked every second. The poor people had no place to run to or hide!

Sunset was most outraged, and stamped her foot angrily. “I’ve got to go back up there! I’ve got to try and save them and all put that thing out of commission.”

The others knew she was right, and they couldn’t just sit and do nothing. “Um… one problem,” Spike said “One: Their up in space; how are you even going to get up there without your Star Jet?”

Everyone exchanged concerned expressions with one another, but Luna had one possible idea. “I remember long ago, during our first battle against the Crystallites.”

She remembered, her brother-in-law, being a former astronaut, one of his limousines could transform into an actual space-craft to take someone up into orbit, and back again.

“Are you saying such a this is still here?” asked Krysta.

“It most certainly is…” Professor Brian replied as he came into the room “Terribly sorry to intrude, but I couldn’t help overhear. Yes, the rocket-limousine is here in this very base. It was one of the basic inspirations to help my team and I create the star-jets.”

Sunset dashed right up to him, nearly knocking him down, “Professor, whatever it takes, get that limo out of cold-storage and fix it up!”

The Professor stammered as he spoke, “I have to warn you, it needs to be tuned, re-fueled, and programed, and…!” he stopped when he saw the blaze of fire in Sunset’s pupils telling him she was dead serious. “Right, I better get started; I can have her ready by sundown.”

So he gathered up his team and went straight to work.

“Whoa-Whoa-Whoa, back a minute, Sunset!” said Twilight “Vulcan may be expecting you go up there.”

“Yeah… and what if he spots you?” added Shining Armor You can’t fight that big robot just as you are. It’ll blow you apart in one shot.”

Sunset’s enthusiasm seemed to disappear all at once. “You’re right, and even if I do get inside… what then?”

Everyone thought deeply, and as they thought, the news continued to play on the monitors.

“The world has never seen such horrifying tragedy. Cities across the world have suffered major concussions leaving destruction and ruin in various places, and people gravely injured and left homeless. While the shelling from the alien object in orbit seems to have ceased firing, the people remain feared that it will start again soon.

The armed forces, as they are, refuse to launch another attack due the report of civilians being held hostage aboard the alien craft, but the commanding general states he cannot risk the safety of the world much longer and will attack if need be, as he quotes… “It is very few lives against billions!”

Cadance’s eyes widened, “That’s it!” she cried. Everyone gawked at her and she explained her idea, “The armed forces can fire another salvo of rockets at the robot, distracting it so Sunset can slip through.”

Everyone was practically livid at such a suggestion; the very thought of deliberately firing at Vulcano and risking the lives of all the people on board, including their friends. “Oh… I guess it’s our only shot and it could work.” said Twilight, “But even if you do get inside, you’ll be completely on your own.”

Sunset just looked at her straight and deeply, telling her she was willing to take the risk. “I am Starfleet Officer, as well as a Power Ranger, but above those things… I am a friend… and I owe it to all the others.”

The others felt deeply touched by what she said. “Well, let’s get to work.” said Spike.

The others agreed; there was much to be done for Sunset’s mission. They all just hoped their friends were still okay.

Vulcano hadn’t fired on the Earth due to the power on the weapon systems running low, and worse all the civilians had been sucked of a lot of energy, that absorbing anymore out of them would kill them, consequently costing Vulcan his power supply.

“It’s no use, sir.” Bronc said “We’ll simply have to wait until the humans rest up and then take what energy we can from them.”

Vulcan angrily pounded the arm of his chair. “I should have captured more civilians. Well, there’s another fine mess you’ve all gotten us into!”

The minions felt insulted for him blaming them, but didn’t dare protest.

Vulcan stepped up to the viewport and looked down at the Earth below. It was still felt great to him, finally being able to level a planet. Soon he would strike again and purge it of all life. Then he would sell the Earth to the highest bidder!

He began to snicker softly, “After all these ages, I’m back in the game! It feels wonderful! I would have been on top of the Dimensional Galaxy, but Starfleet interfered, and tossed me into jail where I rotted for five-hundred years!

And now…” he paused and chuckled “…Everything will be fine!”

By sundown, the rocket-limo was ready and now sat outside on the landing pad outside the mansion. The controls were even modified to that of Sunset’s star-jet.

“Ah… Satisfactory; Most satisfactory.” said Professor Brain. “Now remember, Sunset. This craft was prepped up in a hurry. You have no weapons, and limited speed.”

“Maybe…” said Sunset “But as long as it can get me onto Vulcan’s robot, that’s all that’s needed.”

Luna got off the phone with Washington. “The army is ready. They will fire when you give the word.”

Sunset nodded thankfully, and now it was time for her to go. She took a moment to gaze deeply at everyone and they gazed at her back, offering their luck, best wishes, and deep concern for her.

“It’ll be alright… I promise!” she said bravely, and then she morphed. “Starfleet Magic, Power On!”

She climbed into the car and powered up the systems.

“Everyone, get back!” cautioned Brain.

The craft began to roar to life and was ready to go. Sunset took a deep breath as she gripped the controls, “…Blast-off!” and she fired the rockets propelling the craft up, up, up, and away!

The ride wasn’t as smooth like riding in her jet. Sunset felt herself sinking into the back of her seat, and it was an effort to make even the slightest movement, but she managed to hold on good, and she made it into orbit.

She contacted the others to tell them she was okay. “I’m going to make my way towards Vulcano.”

“The army is ready when you are.” said Luna “They have you in their telescopic sights, and non-heat seeking missiles ready for launch. They’ll try their best not to hit you.”

Sunset didn’t feel too comfortable with that, but she had to press on. “Wait for me to call in again. Over and out…” she signed off and took the controls “Okay, Vulcan! Ready or not, here I come!” and with that, she rocketed off!

Meanwhile, after a long after-noon of resting, as well as being fed-- Vulcan’s forces knew the humans had to be cared for… if they were to function properly-- the humans began to feel physically well again, only to immediately get their energies sucked out of them again and fed into the robot’s system.

The humans all groaned and groped as they struggled to stay away. The Grandrulers could hardly take much more of this torture, but felt more worried for their babies; Castor a Leilani were not looking so good, almost as if they were getting sick!

“The… chil… dren!” Celestia groaned “They can’t… can’t take… much more of… this!”

Celesto, barely hanging in there himself, hated seeing his wife, his children, not to mention all the innocent people suffering, but hated even more that he saw no way of getting out of this one so easily, especially with five of the rangers imprisoned as well.

The rangers were still held in their force-fields, still levitated off the ground and being infected with whatever magic was being cast on them.

Suddenly, the lights went out, and the rangers all stood transfixed with their eyes wide open, and their pupils were all glowing red.

That’s when a swarm of Lingos came down the hall, deactivated the force-fields and opened the rangers’ cells and began to march them all out and down the hallway.

“Hey!” Celesto called “Where are you… taking them?!”

Naturally, the Lingos didn’t respond, and neither did the rangers; they all acted as like robots following orders and just kept right on marching.

Now Celesto was exceedingly worried. Even though he knew Sunset was still out there, and was likely on her way, what was there to expect when and if she arrived?

…Absolutely ANYTHING!

Up on the bridge, Keto reported to Vulcan “The rangers are ready, Master.”

Bronc checked the consoles, “Weapons nearly charged at full-power and standing by.”

Vulcan snickered while twiddling his fingers wickedly “Then I guess we’re ready for round two. Ha! Begin the attack!”

Marla sat at her station ready to pull the triggers, when the warning radar beeped. “Something’s coming at us.” she cried. As he blip got closer to the center of the screen, everyone could suddenly see the strange craft on the approach.

Vulcan zoomed in on the craft and switched to view inside, “Red Ranger… I knew it. She’s come to save her friends just as I planned.”

He was about to give orders, when suddenly the alarm sounded. “Missiles! We’re under fire again!” cried Keto. Vulcan growled, “Well don’t just sit there; destroy those them!”

The minions compiled and began to fire at the oncoming rockets.

“It’s working!” Sunset said into her com, “The missiles are keeping them busy. I’m going in!”

“Be careful, Sunset, it could still be a trap.” said Twilight.

Sunset agreed and steered towards the colossal robot.

“Sir, Red Ranger is getting closer!” said Bronc.

“Let her through.” said Vulcan “I want her alive, and besides, once she is aboard, she’ll soon find herself in her proper place.”

Marla nodded, “Activating tractor beam.”

The robot fired its beam at the car-rocket. “Hey! What’s going on?” Sunset yelled as she fought for control, and she was soon brought aboard the massive hulk, car and all.

She now sat in a huge empty room with no visible hatchway or entry point that lead out into space, other than the tractor-beam valve that brought her in.

Sunset exited her car-rocket, “I guess I was invited in.” she said to herself, but she knew full well it meant Vulcan was aware she was onboard and would most likely be coming for her.

Her fears were soon answered as she the sound of loud footsteps coming from a single door at the end of the room. She hid began the car-rocket just as several Lingos came in, obviously sent by Vulcan to get her.

The Lingos searched the driver’s seat of the car, but when they couldn’t see Sunset anywhere, she let out a mighty roar she leapt out from hiding and surprised the villains, and attacked them viciously.

All the Lingos were knocked down and vaporized into bits of dandruff.

“So much for them.” said Sunset, and with the door still open she slunk out of the room and made her way down the hallways.

Up on the bridge Bronc in formed Vulcan “The missiles have ceased, but I’m afraid we’ve depleted a good amount of our freshly obtained power.”

“Really…? Tell me something I don’t know.” Vulcan sneered in a snarky voice. “Well sir…” replied Bronc “Sensors also indicate the Red Ranger is aboard, but she apparently has avoided capture!”

Vulcan looked madder than ever, “Then why are you wasting time with me instead of putting my backup-plan into action?!!”

“Uh… yes sir!”

Marla and Keto gawked at one another and shook their heads.

“And what are you two shaking your heads for?” snapped Vulcan “Keep those systems stable and standby for further orders!”

“Yes sir!” the minions said together.

Vulcan sat in his chair and viewed Sunset dashing down the halls.

Sunset slunk down one way, and then another, being careful to avoid being seeing by passing Lingos working their shifts. “This thing looked so much smaller outside.” she said to herself.

Suddenly, she could hear voices up ahead, or rather the sound of groping and groaning, like people who were cringing on for life. “…The civilians!” sunset cried softly. When the way was clear she dashed down the hall and found the prison chamber where all the prisoners lay weak and frail-looking from having their energy sucked out again.

“Oh my goodness…!” Sunset cried, and she made her way to the Grandrulers’ cell. “Mr. Grandruler! Principal Celestia!”

The couple opened their eyes, wearily. “Sun… set?” groaned Celestia. Celesto could hardly bring himself to speak, but he felt his eyes lift up with a little hope.

“Hang, I’ll try and get you out.” Sunset said, but just as she was about to touch the control-box to the side of the cell, someone grabbed her by the wrist; Green Ranger!

“Buddy…? What are you…?” before she could continue, Buddy shoved her hard forcing her back. She still stood, “What’s happening to you?”

Buddy didn’t answer, and then the other rangers appeared and stood near him, all morphed and all glaring at her.

Vulcan’s voice was then heard over the intercom, “Welcome, Red Ranger…! We’ve been expecting you, and it seems you found our little reception.”

Sunset’s features hardened behind her helmet. “What have you done to them?”

Vulcan snickered as he gazed at his screen. “Why, the same thing that’s going to be done with you, and once you are a part of our little… enterprises… I will have you pilot your precious megazords to help me level your planet faster.”

He then gazed over at Keto who was at his station. His console was the main source to the brainwaves controlling the rangers. “All power-levels are steady, master.” he said to Vulcan.

Vulcan nodded, and then ordered the other five rangers, “…Seize her!”

Before Sunset could protest, her brainwashed friends rushed forth and began to attack. Sunset served, dodged and did put up defenses to block their attacks, but made no attempt to hit her friends back.

“Come on, guys, snap out of it!”

Her only response was Rhymey fly-kicking her hard and sent her rolling along the floor.

“It’s no use…” Vulcan warmed Sunset, “The brainwaves cast upon them are far too powerful. They only serve me now. How does it feel… being beaten by your own friends?”

Sunset clenched her fist furiously, but Rainbow and Fluttershy tried to grab her and take her hostage. “Oh… I hate do this to you guys, but I promise I’ll make it up to you!”

With that, she elbowed them both hard and flipped them both off of her. Buddy and Rhymey lunged at her, and she served dodging them both, but Lightning held up his arms and blasted her with his Comet Trail, sending her crashing hard into the back wall.

“That… really hurt!” groaned Sunset, and the next thing she knew, all her friends were standing over her aiming all their charged weapons straight her. There was no place for her to possibly run.

“No… Sun…set!” cried Celesto groaned.

Vulcan watched and laughed wickedly. “Well done, rangers…” he said to them “You see what happens when you get on the winning team.

…Bring her to me… and then, prepare to destroy!”

To Be Continued…!

Final Episode: Final Part: Raging Business

FINAL EPISODE

The armed forces were growing very impatient, ever since they had been told to cease firing since Sunset docked onto the robot in orbit, but the danger had not ceased by a longshot.

The lead general contacted Luna, “Now you listen to me; I’ve just ordered one of our best missiles to be moved onto the launching pad, and if that robot up there fires upon the Earth one more time, it launches, whether there are still aboard or not! I cannot and will risk the lives of a few people for the lives of billions!”

“General, you must listen!” shouted Luna, but the line was already cut off. “Oh, of all the trigger-happy pig-headed murderous…!”

It was obvious to everyone now that there would be no reasoning with the armed forces. Then again, the general was right; somehow that robot had to come down before Vulcan blew the Earth to ashes.

Cadance was really starting to freak out and she slammed the table furiously, “I can’t believe it! I just won’t!!” she thundered “I lost my brother to evil; I can’t lose more of my family… or my friends!!”

“Honey, try to stay calm.” Shining Armor, but his wife turned and scorned “How can I keep calm when our friends and family are about to be blown to space dust?!!”

Everyone gawked at her fearfully. “Cadance, all this wild raging isn’t going to help.” said Twilight “There’s nothing we can do either, not while they’re up there.”

She felt her own frustration starting to mount, “If only they could get out that robot, out of orbit and back within our range, I could at least contact them!”

“Easy Twilight…” said Spike “Remember, all this fuss won’t help.”

Twilight got a hold of herself.

Krysta was so worried about Lightning and the others. “I just wonder what’s happening up there.”

(Que Intro)

The five rangers, still morphed brought Sunset to Vulcan on the bridge and removed her helmet.

“Not so tough now without your friends on your side.” Vulcan mocked. His minions all snickered, but Sunset was far from amused. “You’ll never get away with this, Vulcan!” she sneered.

Marla scoffed “Can’t you come up with anything original? That line is so overused.”

“Enough…” Vulcan said “I don’t want to waste much time, for as we say is business; time is money, and there’s lots of it waiting to be made once I conquer the Earth and sell it.” He then waltzed over to sunset and glared deeply into her eyes, “…And you and your fellow rangers are going to help me.”

Sunset angrily spit in his face!

The minions gasped, but rather than flying into a rage, Vulcan wiped his face with his hand and snapped his fingers for Keto “Brainwash her now before I change my mind and fire her into space!”

“With pleasure…” said Keto, and he typed into his console. The other rangers backed away as Sunset was cast a red field of light. She was levitated up off the ground. Keto explained, “This field is special blend of my Decomposition Mugic, combined with command codes that flow through your brain cells. You’ll do exactly as we tell you do like an obedient slave!”

Bronc looked at his console with deep concern “The power level is starting to run low!” he cried “We mustn’t leach off too much or all systems could fail!”

Hearing that gave Sunset an idea, but she couldn’t even move, and began to feel her mind starting to black as the brainwaves took their toll on her.

She would have surely been brainwashed… except, Sunset was no ordinary human. Being an original alien pony from Dimensional Universe, she was extra special!

Something began to shine from the deepest corner of her mind… and there she was, not even morphed, standing in her own mind, un-morphed, and moving towards the light.

“What is that?” she wondered as she moved in closer

She moved in closer and closer and finally, what she saw were like floating screens of memories from her past, including when she used to be evil; stealing Princess Twilight Sparkle’s crown and escaping to the human world where she had already confronted Lightning Dawn the space pony, whom was on his own mission at the time.

Then after she was defeated, and Princess Twilight offered her the chance to turn around… the next images she saw were of all the good she had done, all the friends she had made, even when Lightning returned and made her an official Starfleet officer, and most of all… was Artie.

After all this time, it still amazed her that he could actual find love for her, and how she found ability to return his feelings so deeply.

She smiled warmly, and suddenly all those images combined together to form her Shining Angel form that stood before her. She long since lost the ability to tap into at will, without her energizer, yet it spoke to her.

“You have done a lot to make it where you are today, much more of it all good. You can never erase the past, but you can learn from it and use that to help yourself and others.”

Hearing and remembering this made Sunset feel like she was glowing…!

She was in fact glowing brightly; her entire body was outlined in a thin bright light.

“What’s happening?!” snapped Vulcan.

Keto fiddled with the controls like crazy trying to isolate this suddenly outburst of power, “I can’t stop it! It’s overloading the systems!”

The console began to spark and flare as the power-levels went beyond critical points. “It’s gonna blow!” screamed Marla, and the console did explode, sending wires and scrap bits all over, and of course, with its destruction not only was Sunset released from the brainwave field, but all the other rangers snapped back to their senses.

“Whoa, what happened?” asked Buddy.

Rainbow rubbed the top of her helmet, “Last thing I remember I was in my cell and…”

Sunset, no longer glowing, turned to face her friends and smiled at them, “Glad to see you’re back, rangers.”

“Sunset!” cried Fluttershy, but the moment was interrupted by Vulcan furiously growling at them, and the minions standing by his side. “I don’t know what’s going on here, but I won’t stand for it!!” Vulcan shouted.

Sunset turned, she and all the others glared at him, “We’re not like you, Vulcan. You’ve been so obsessed with your business and power that you’ll never understand the power of friendship and believing. That’s what helped me overpower your brainwashing!”

Vulcan flared up, looking as if he would literally explode.

“I think you just struck a nerve with him.” said Lightning.

Rhymey grabbed Sunset’s helmet and handed it to her saying,

“Once and for all,
Let’s make him fall!”

Sunset agreed, and pressed on her morpher, aiming at her helmet, magically, or rather technologically, putting it back on her head instantly.

“Get them!” Vulcan shouted.

“But, sir, there’s not enough room in here!” cried Bronc, “We might damage the equipment!”

“GET THEM!!!!!!” Vulcan shouted so loud, the entire robot seemed to quiver. The minions were reluctant and feared to comply and rushed forth, blasted and knocking away all the chairs and things to make more space.

Marla whistled loudly calling a batch of Lingos to come onto the bridge and join the fight.

“Let’s go guys!” shouted Sunset, and the brawl was on.

Fluttershy, showing more courage than she had ever before, punched and kicked like crazy knocking the Lingos down going “Monsters…! Bullies…! Get away from me!”

Rhymey fought against Keto, not even bothering to draw out his sword. He had studied Keto’s fencing style since their last, and knew his every move.

Keto swung his staff furiously, but Rhymey blocked it with his fists and kicks. Finally seeing an opening, he kicked the staff away leaving Keto defenseless, and gave him a huge hard kick into the wall!

“We need to get down to the prisoners and set the free!
Somebody, hurry, please come with me!”

Lightning punched one Lingo away and trip-kicked another, “I’m with you, bud!”

The two rangers dashed for the door…

“No, you don’t!” thundered Vulcan, and he blasted the door hard causing a big explosion which knocked the two rangers back, and collapsed a whole heap of rubble over the doorway.

Vulcan laughed as he moved in to get at them both, but he was tackled to the floor by Buddy and Sunset.

Rainbow then grabbed her Sonic Cannon, “Stand back!” she shouted and shot at the rubble blowing it all away.

“Thanks, Rainbow!” said Lightning, then he and Rhymey ran off to free the prisoners.

Vulcan shoved Buddy and Sunset off of him, and then Marla and Bronc, and Keto having recovered stood by his side. “You… fool…!” Vulcan shouted “I’ve worked too long and hard to get this far, AND NO ONE IS GOING TO TAKE IT FROM ME AGAIN!!”

“Nobody, but us!” shouted Sunset “IT’S TIME TO SHINE!!”

Meanwhile, the army had waited long enough. “Prepare to launch the bomb!” the general ordered. He ignored the many piles of contacts and messages from Vice Principal Luna. The only person who could order him not to fire was the President of the U.S.A, and it was under the very President’s orders that the missile be launched.

Both the President and the General hated that they were going to be shooting down the civilians onboard the robot, but again, the planet of billions were at stake.

“…LAUNCH!!”

POW!! The missile launched up, up, up…!

At the rangers’ base, the team saw the whole thing on the news. They could actually see the rocket flying up into the sky.

“No!!” cried Cadance “We’ve got to warn the rangers!”

“We can’t!” cried Twilight “I can’t make connection with them while their inside the robot!”

Shining Armor looked as if he could crash through a steel wall, while the pets were freaking out madly, but Luna was easily as disturbed! “Celesto… Celestia… Castor, Leilani!”

Lightning and Rhymey freed all the prisoners; shooting the control-boxes by the cells effectively disarming the barriers and opening the bars.

Despite having only a short rest after another energy drain, the prisoners managed to find enough strength to get up and walk, but they had no time to feel grateful, especially when a swarm of Lingos came running down the hall.

“I’ll hold them off, you get them to the megazord!” Lightning said to Rhymey.

Rhymey agreed, and shouted to the civilians,

“Don’t delay,
Come this way!”

The civilians followed him and ran down the halls as Lightning fought against the swarm of villains.

While on the bridge, Vulcan and his minions brutal beat on the rangers hard. Marla gave Buddy a huge hit with hair knocking him over and then jumped on him to pummel him with her fists “I don’t care if I ruin my nails… YOU’RE FINISHED!!” she thundered.

“Think… Again…!” Buddy snarled and managed to kick her up over him and then kicked her hard across the floor.

Bronc and Keto lunged at Rainbow, and she gave them a good shot with her Sonic-Cannon, sending them both crashing into the consoles shorting them out, causing a massive system overload in the entire robot.

Vulcan didn’t seem to notice or care much as he was furiously brawling with Sunset. He slashed at her hard with his claws making sparks fly and sent her skidding into the wall. “You just don’t know when to quit… DO YOU?!” he thundered at her.

Sunset bolted upright and grabbed her Star-Scepter, “You’re right, I don’t!” and she lunged forth, swerving Vulcan’s attack and slashing him hard across the chest. Then she kicked him hard into the wall, actually denting the metal platings.

Meanwhile, Rhymey was in Ultra-Star Megazord’s cockpit. He used the tractor beam to gather all the civilians in a giant bundle, as it was the only possible way to get them back to Earth that would protect them from the deadliness of space.

He used the short-wave communication to inform the others that they were ready to go and to hurry up and get to the megazord…

Suddenly, he looked out the view-port and saw a huge missile rocketing straight for them.

“IT’S COMING QUITE NEAR!!
WE MUST GET OUT OF HERE!!!”

Everyone else could see the missile coming from the bridge, but it was already too late to do anything!

“LOOK OUT!!” screamed Fluttershy.

KAPOW!! The missile struck the robot hard in its legs. The whole thing rocked violently shaking everyone about. The legs of robot were complete destroyed, and without its thrusters causing the robot to fall from orbit towards the Earth’s atmosphere.

“We gotta get outta here!” snapped Rainbow.

“Come on, let’s go!” added Buddy, and he Rainbow and Fluttershy dashed out the door to run for the megazord. “Sunset, come on!” Fluttershy called.

“Right…!” snapped Sunset, but as she tried to follow them, Vulcan blasted her with his flames sending her hard into the wall. “I’m not finished with you!” and he lunged at her still brawling like crazy.

“Sunset!” cried Fluttershy.

“Just go, I’ll catch up!” shouted Sunset.

Fluttershy felt her eyes coming to tears behind her helmet, but Rainbow grabbed her and dragged her along the hallway.

The robot was falling faster than ever and heating up upon re-entry. Fortunately the metal shielding protected it, the megazord was also protected by its own shelling, and the tractor-net kept all the civilians safe as well.

Five of the rangers were in the cockpit and contemplating the situation. Lightning called Sunset over the com, “Sunset! Where are you? We have to go now!”

Sunset was stuck fighting with Vulcan so hard she barely found time to answer. “Just go! Get the civilians to safety!”

“But Sunset!” cried Buddy!

“JUST GO!!!”

Fluttershy felt like weeping, but even she, just like the others knew they had to go!

“You heard her so…
AWAY WE GO!” shouted Rhymey as he activated the controls and the Megazord literally broke off the attachments on the decaying robot and rocketed off through the atmosphere, towing the civilians all in the tractor-net. The poor people were rocked and tossed about like being on a sickening roller-coaster ride.

Some of them even felt like hurling!

The friends at the base tracked them, and Twilight was finally able to contact them. “Rangers, listen to me!” she cried “I’m glad you’re okay, but that robot is falling too fast. It’s heading towards San-Francisco! At its speed and size, when it hits the ground it’ll cause a massive shockwave, like a meteor, and level the entire city!”

The rangers all gasped. “So you’re saying we’ve got to knock it off course?” asked Buddy.

“Yes, and slow it down!” said Twilight “I’ve calculated some figures…” she sent them at once “If you can deflect and slow the robot just enough, it should crash in a large stretch of outback where it won’t cause much damage.”

The rangers studied the figures and agreed that it would work, “Except for one thing…!” said Fluttershy, “Susnet’s still on that thing!”

Everyone at the base gasped!

Inside, Vulcan’s minions knew it was time to flee. “Master!” cried Bronc “We must escape, now!”

“I’m not leaving!” thundered Vulcan, and he glared at Sunset “I’m finishing you off once and for all!” and he blasted her hard into the wall again. “You crazy fool!” snapped Sunset “We’ll all be destroyed!”

Vulcan still didn’t seem to interest and lunged at her.

“Forget this, I’m bailing!” cried Keto. “Wait for me!” hollered Marla. Even Bronc was with his comrades and decided to bail out! Their teleporters were damaged in the battle, so they jumped by parachute, over the Pacific Ocean, but the winds were so strong that their parachutes were broken to pieces causing them all plunge down, down, down… splashing hard to the waters below!

The rangers saw them, and almost felt sorry for the minions, feeling neither of them could have survived a fall like that; even hitting water from such a height would be like hitting concrete.

That was the least of their problems, the mainland was coming up fast, and the robot would crash into the city in approximately one minute.

…Even with all this, all Vulcan cared about was finishing off Sunset, and he wouldn’t let her leave. “You see, Red Ranger… this is business, MY business, and in my business EVERYTHING GOES MY WAY!!”

He blasted at her again, but this time she rolled out of the way making the blast hit the wall, damaging it but not breaking it. “You forgot one important thing about all business, Vulcan!” she sneered at him “…Always double check your figures! An error could slip by!”

…Able-Boost, Activate!”

“Able-Boost Mode, Engage!”

Glowing brightly, she held up her scepter, “Charge, full-power!”

“Star-Scepter, Engage! Maximum Power!”

Vulcan roared furiously and forced everything he had into one thunder flare blast, but Sunset, thank to her enhanced speed, rolled out of the way, made a colossal leap over the burning energy and fired the biggest blast from her Star-Scepter ever, hitting Vulcan so hard that it forced him clean into the thickness of the wall, trapping him!

The force of the blast was so hard that it blew Sunset herself clear through the viewport, shattering the glass!

“Look! It’s Sunset!” cried Lightning.

“Quick! Catch her!” shouted Rainbow.

Sunset spun and tumbled about, until she was safely caught in the megazord’s right hand. “GOT’CHA!!” shouted Buddy.

“Great catch, guys!” Sunset called “Now let’s finish this for good!”

Clasping Sunset carefully, the rangers maneuvered the megazord to underneath the robot and then gave it a huge bump level it off its steep dive so it flew over the city heading straight for the outback lands.

“…SO LONG, VULCAN!!” Sunset called.

Inside, Vulcan, unable to free himself from bondage, screeched with all his might, “MY LEGACY WILL LIVE ON…!!!!!!!!”

…3… 2… 1…!! CRASH!! KAPOW!! A massive explosion followed by two more explosions, a final SUPER BANG, which made a large crater and stirred up a lot of dust, but the dust harmlessly bleed away to nothing in the winds!

The civilians and the rangers could hardly believe what they had just seen or done!

The megazord touched down, and finally released all the civilians safely on the ground. “Thank heavens we made it!” cried Celesto.

Celestia hugged him deeply and they both held their children in their arms. They still were looking rather sickly, but most likely it was just from extreme fatigue and malnourishment which was easily treatable.

The rangers, de-moprhed, and all regrouped and hugged Sunset in a big group-hug, delighted she was alright, but suddenly there was a stirring sound from the great pile of wreckage where the robot crashed.

Everyone looked on, and actually saw Vulcan’s arm sticking out from the debris, quivering madly as if he was trying to comeback!

“No way!” cried Sunset.

“Is he…?
It can’t be!” added Rhymey.

Everyone watched nervously, but all they heard was a loud groan and the arm keeled down flat. The arm then disappeared, vaporized into ashes… The End of Vulcan!

“We… did it.” Sunset said softly, and then she cheered “We really did it!”

The rest was all drowned out by everyone cheering loudly, as the crowd of people rushed over to hoist the six rangers up for their heroic triumph in helping to save the world!

The gang at the base were cheering and hugging each other as well. even Krysta and Spike hugged each other!

Though the robot had caused much damage across the world, people were banding together to rebuild, inspired by the rangers’ heroisms, and those whom were injured were receiving the finest treatments there was.

The very next day, Celesto held a big party within the base, though it usually wasn’t the greatest of places to hold a party; for once he was willing to make an exception

“I’d like to propose a toast.” he said, and the entire room went silent. “To our Power Rangers …Sunset Shimmer… Buddy Rose… Rainbow Dash… Rhymey… Fluttershy… Lightning Dawn… You have gone far beyond the calls of duty, and protected your town, your planet, the entire galaxy. Words can never express how grateful we are to you.”

The rangers all smiled proudly.

“And to you… Twilight Sparkle, Professor Brain, and all of you at this laboratory; your expertise as well as technological and scientific contributions, we would be lost without. Thank you, for a job well done!”

Everyone cheered!

As the party continued, “Do you really think we should be celebrating?” asked Fluttershy “I mean there’s still a huge tower of monsters out there somewhere.”

“Yeah, there is…” said Buddy “…But look at it this way: with Vulcan and his minions gone, there’s nobody there to let them out of their cells.”

Twilight agreed with him, “Eventually they’ll all go hungry from not being fed or tended to. I know that seems rough, but we just can’t help it. At least it means no more trouble.”

“We’ve worked hard and done our best.
Now I think we deserve a rest.” said Rhymey.

Fluttershy looped her arm around his and pecked his cheek deeply. “A chance for some peace and quiet…”

Rainbow strummed her guitar, “More time for excellence and things.”

“Yeah, but some of us actually have to work.” Lightning pointed out. The others looked at him jokingly. “Okay, let’s party!”

Everyone agreed and it sure was a great one, especially when Rainbow played her guitar to a soundtrack and everyone dances wildly.

“I call this “Doin’ the Dog.” Spike said as he boogied about. “That’s nothing; check this out.” Krysta said as she twisted and twirled in the air like dancing as she flew.

The party was all so wonderful and everyone was so preoccupied, no one noticed Sunset had excused herself to head over to the hospital to tell her friends the good news, especially to Artie.

“We did it, Vulcan’s gone, and everything’s going to be okay. I know it will.”

She felt Artie’s hand give a small twitch. It was just a muscle reflex, but to her it was a very good sign that soon he would awaken, as probably would all the others. “We’ll always be a team…” Sunset said as she gazed at all her friends and touched her morpher “…Always.”

Far, far away on the island where the prison tower stood, all the many prisoners still locked up were hammering on their cell for someone, anyone to come and let them out or at least feed them.

“We’re starving here!”

“I’m going to rot away to nothing!”

“SOMEBODY… ANYBODY…!!”

From within Vulcan’s private lab, that huge led blanket he put over his special project fell off, revealing a gigantic egg-like pod… and it was quivering softly as something pounded on it from inside.

Suddenly, POW… a fist shot right through the pod, dripping with a slimy substance, followed by a small crack higher up on the shell. Inside a pair of glowing red eyes shone, followed by the soft sound of snickering…

“…Now it begins!”

To Be Continued… “Power Rangers SUPER Starfleet!”

Episode 1: Part 1: Curse From the Stars

Author's Note

This happens DURRING Starfleet Season 6, while the ponies are busy in their world with THAT season, all this happens in the humans world. Think of it as SEASON 6.5

Despite my hate for MLP, I'm not devoid of ideas... Perhaps Equestria Girls could have a series of it's own rather than being restricted to movies (and I can't believe I'm saying that)

Episode 1: Part 1: Curse From the Stars

When the evil does call,
and our world starts to fall
A hero will fight to make things fine!

With our friendships so bright,
we will fight with all our might
just as the stars and goodness must shine…!

GO, GO POWER RANGERS
Believing is all that we’ve got!
GO, GO POWER RANGERS
Make evil forces prevail naught

STARFLEET FOREVER,
POWER RANGERS… ALL TOGETHER!

GO, GO POWER RANGERS
Believing is all that we’ve got!
GO, GO POWER RANGERS
Make evil forces prevail naught

STARFLEET FOREVER,
POWER RANGERS… ALL TOGETHER!

POWER RANGERS… STARFLEET!!!

EPISODE ONE

It all began sometime after the adventures of Starfleet Events…

In the Dimensional Universe-- an alternate dimension of the human world…

Commander Lightning Dawn of Starfleet, and his team of friends, the best fighters in all of Starfleet had gone off on a mission to the planet Mangola, where reports had come in of an invasion of aliens that were terrorizing the good people.

As the planet was within the Starfleet territory, it was up to Lightning and his team to thwart the evil doers and bring them to justice!

During his absence, back on the planet United Equestria… within the laboratories of the royal palace in New Canterlot, something mysterious was happening…!

The Mirror-Gateway, the portal which connected their world to the human world was glowing in a weird way, and giving off abnormal flows of power.

Professor Brain and his team of experts examined the portal with all that they had. “Strange… most strange.” said Brain “The portal generators don’t seem to be powering down regardless of what we do.”

He sent for their royal majesties. Grand Ruler Celesto, his wife Queen Celestia, and Celestia’s younger sister, Princess Luna.

Celestia was able to determine immediately what was going on. “Every thirty moons the gateway opens by itself. This is done by a combination of light emitted from the full-moon absorbed by the solar panels on the palace, with magical energies we all have yet to understand.”

Princess Luna agreed, and recollected, “Durring the great war, when my evil side had invaded Equestria of old, the mirror was damaged, and though United Equestria had formed, the mirror had remained powerless… until Lightning was able to redesign and reconfigure it… these of course were based of plans he knew from Twilight Sparkle.”

Mentioning Twilight’s name, everyone fell silent for a moment, feeling a little down that she had been dead for almost a full year after being killed in action.

Once they all got a hold of themselves, Grand Ruler checked the calendar, “Tonight must be the night, when it opens naturally for the first time in two and a-half years since it was repaired. That would explain why it’s glowing.”

Everyone figured that when the portal was redesigned to allow instant and anytime access to the human world that had something to do with the portal’s now abnormal behavior.

“Do you think this could be… dangerous?” Celestia asked.

“That I am uncertain of…” said Brain “I’m afraid that only Lightning shall be able to assist in this, as he did design the gate.”

Grand Ruler shook his head, “Lightning hasn’t returned Mangola yet. I don’t know when he’ll be back, but I would suggest we try and shut the portal down. We don’t want things to get any worse.”

Everyone agreed, and Princess Luna went to the window and looked up at the full moon. “I shall attempt to block it out to stop the flow of energy from the light.”

She began to cast her magic, creating thick dark clouds in the night sky to cover the moon and block out the light shining from it. While she did this, the others decided it best to disconnect the portal from all power sources, hoping it would stop glowing.

While all that was happening, a few dimensional-lightyears away, was Conva, base of one of Starfleet’s largest prison facilities, housing so many dangerous creatures captured from all corners of the galaxy for crimes committed-- murder, conquest, theft, endangerment of life, revolutions, and various violations of the law in space and of other worlds.

The main complex housed thousands of creatures, but there were other smaller facilities, towers, and various complexes all over the planet, each housing their own set of imprisoned monsters and convicts.

All this was run and managed by the head warden: Colonel Cerise Wonder. A space alicorn, whom strongly resembled and sounded like Princess Cadance, and also had a rare golden horn and the ability to use the Uniforce.

“You’ve got to be tough to run a huge place like this.” she would always say, and she was right; all those roaring and snarling beasts hammering at their cells, others causing riots in the courtyards, and even some getting into fights with another on enforced labour assignments.

Cerise and her legion of guards and staff worked extra tight schedules to ensure that the prison was run properly, and to maintain the hold on the prisoners so that none would ever escape, which was why that day a maintenance team was scheduled to come and give all the systems and other things around the prison a good tune up to keep everything fine.

Unbeknownst to any of them the danger that was about to befall…

A grey Earth Pony, a technician with a bad attitude whom came with the maintenance crew from United Equestria, who detested Starfleet and the way many praised them, and wanted to think of some way to make them suffer or humiliate them…

He had crept away from his work team and over to an unmanned console for the main complex. “If I can just release a few criminals, Starfleet will get the blame for inefficiency and people may wake up and realize what lamos they really are.”

The only problem was, though he was good with simple wiring and tightening bolts and things like that, he had absolute no idea how the controls before him worked, or what they did.

He didn’t dare break them open, for fear of really doing something wrong. Still not thinking straight due to his bad obsession, he foolishly thought of pressing just one little button; what harm would it do?

So he pushed one large green button, and nothing really happened, just a yellow button began to flash. Still being foolish, he pushed that one two, causing a big red button to flash over a console with a label above it saying: “Prison Cellblocks”

He grinned very naughty. “This is it…” he hissed softly “This is what I’m looking for. Now all I have to do is release just one or two… nah, better make it five.”

Unfortunately, every switch he hit did nothing, as if the controls were locked. Only the big red button in the center of the console was flashing. “I’ll bet this unlocks it…” Brass said, and he pressed it right away.

In the cellblocks, the guards were still doing their rounds, when suddenly the shields around the cells deactivated, one-after-another!

The angry prisoners bust through their cells roaring and screeching loudly.

“What the…!” cried a guard, and before he knew it he and his fellow guards were fighting off all the escaping convicts.

“JAILBREAK!!” another guard screamed as more and more and more monsters escaped from their cells.

Cerise heard the commotion and raced to the scene, “SOUND THE ALARMS!!!” She shouted.

“We can’t, the systems are still down!” called a guard.

Before long an extreme prison riot had broken out, as pretty much every single creature in the entire complex escaped and began to fight their way through.

The worker ponies panicked and fled for their lives, before they got hurt…

…While Cerise called out the entire army in the complex to come and detain the prisoners. The soldiers only equalled to less than half of the hundreds of prisoners, but fortunately for the soldiers, the prisoners were still very weak, some had even grown very old from being locked up for such a really long time, and when they saw Cerise powering up her golden horn they knew they were in trouble.

“You’re not getting away that easy!” Cerise shouted, “UNIFORCE!!” Unleashing her power, she knocked many of the prisoners out cold, and trapped many of them back in their cells using the Uniforce energy as barriers.

One of the guards ran up to Cerise in a panic. “Colonel…! There’s a fault in the power systems! It’s spreading along the powerlines! It could cause more power failures all over the other complexes!”

Cerise knew this was serious. “Quickly, activate emergency shut down.”

“Already have, ma’am… the fault is still spreading!” cried the guard. He then looked behind him at a series of power lines, “There goes one now!”

Cerise looked and saw a speaking blue jolt of power heading along the lines.

“It’s heading for that tower!” cried the guard “…It’s Tower Number Seven!”

Cerise gassed, “Oh, no! Not Number Seven! One of our most dangerous creatures is locked up in there! He could escape!”

“Let’s get over there!” shouted the guard.

Tower Number Seven was just one of many identical prison towers on the entire planet. Five stories high-- about the size of a small apartment building-- it was round, metallic, and super high tech to keep all the many floors and rows of prisoners contained

Spectacular but functional living quarters, including main control ops, galley, and a laboratory were based at the top of the tower for the staff and guards on shift.

The guards, already well alerted of the crisis were doing they could to keep everything from flying to pieces, when suddenly that surge entered the tower through the wirelines.

“Stop it!” shouted the Captain “Don’t let it short out the power-grid! The prisoners will escape!” but it was already too late…!

The surge had hit a bank in the lines, splitting into one large one and three smaller ones. The three smaller surges had hit three cells on the main floor shorting out the power to the shields around the cells.

Three creatures broke free.

One of them was Marla: A very beautiful humanoid lady. She had pale grey skin, pointy ears, long, flowing light pink hair that ran all the way near the ground. She wore a red, sparkling, armored vest with a black skirt attached and matching black boots on her feet, and long fingerless black gloves.

Another of them was Bronc: A big muscular armored creature, much taller and muscular than the others. Very little of his actual body was scene as he was covered in head to toe in white and blue armor, complete with a helmet hiding his features. He almost looked robotic, but he wasn’t.

The last was Keto: A mage, though shorter than the others, about up to Marla’s upper-body. He skin was gold colored, he wore a black witch hat, a red cape, a green robe, and he carried a long metal staff with an upside-down crescent-moon with a large red ruby in the center at the top.

“We’re free!” cried little Keto.

Marla ran her hands through her long hair, letting it flow out as she stretched and sighed “Even after a hundred years, I’m still gorgeous,” she then cracked her knuckles, “…And ready to kick some butt!”

“Well, what are we waiting for then…?” said Bronc, “…Let’s blow this joint!”

Now that they were out of their cells, and thanks to the power surge, the magical manacles that prevented them from using their super strengths or special powers had gone dead.

The guards rushed to the scene to detain the escapees, and Marla saw this good chance to use an old move of hers. Her eyes glowed and her hair bulged out in all directions, releasing little dandruff like flakes to the floor, “Lingos, rise…!” Marla shouted, and the flakes began to glow and take shape…

Suddenly the whole floor was crawling with a swarm of humanoid creatures. Every single one of them had white head, with very little facial features, except for red eyes. They all wore silver, shiny spandex like outfits with red armor vests like Marla’s. All of them were growling in high raspy moans as they looked ready to brawl.

“GO!!” shouted the captain, and mega brawl ensued.

Though the Lingos were rather ugly looking, and tried to put up a valiant effort, they were not exactly the best of soldiers, and got pummeled by the guards.

“Come on! You think you can take me!” Bronc shouted as he faced three of the guards down. The guards charged at him, and all jumped on him, but Bronc, flexing out his huge muscles, repelled them all off.

Several of the male guards challenged Marla, but she fluttered her eye lids at them and flicked her hair in a pretty girl stance. The men could hardly resist her charm and froze in a daze.

“Works every time.” chuckled Marla, and hollering like a warrior princess, she leapt over and punched, kicked the men away… she even whipped her hair like a large club, bashing them all to the wall.

She blew the pitiful guards a flirtatious kiss

As for little Keto, he was surrounded by more guards, and though he was outnumbered like a little kid being cornered by bullies, all he could do was chuckle and tap his staff once on the floor. Large beams then fired from the top of his staff hitting each of the guards, making sparks fly.

However, what no one noticed was that final surge of energy had traveled along many wires and was now shorting out the seal to a very large cell on the main floor. A cell that seemed much thicker, stronger and much more concealed than any cell the tower, and for good reason!

There was a large crash making everyone freeze and turn towards the cell, followed by the several smaller crashes, as though someone inside was pounding on the strong seal.

Cerise and another team of guards had just entered the main floor through the tower doors just as the cell burst wide open in an explosion!

“Oh, boy…!” Cerise cried under her breath.

Everyone watched fearfully as someone walked forth through the smoke, leaving the cell.

“Who’s that?” Keto asked. The other criminals weren’t sure.

The creature came into full view; he was a humanoid like alien, the same height and Marla. He seemed rather muscular. He wore a black armored vest, with a black overcoat, with matching black pants, black boots with spikes at the toes. His hands were crimson red and scaly and had sharp claws, like a dragon. His head seemed human shaped, but was red, scaly, his hair was fiery orange with red highlights and stuck up all over like a flame. Yet his facial features were humanoid, and he wore a solid mask like shades across his eyes.

He snickered wickedly as he cracked his knuckles, and then pulled off his dead magical manacles and threw them to the floor. “I am Vulcan, planet broker extraordinaire!” he snarled “For five-hundred years I’ve locked in solitary confinement, robbed of my prime and glory!”

He began to heat up and smoke like a seething flame, which warned everyone that Vulcan was not going to be an easy one to handle.

Meanwhile, Princess Luna had almost complete blocked out the moonlight with her dark veil of clouds, and the others had nearly disconnected all power sources from the mirror gate, but it was still glowing, pulsating brighter and faster than ever.

“This isn’t working.” said Grand Ruler. “Maybe when it’s disconnected entirely, it’ll deactivate.” said Celestia.

They and Professor Brain continued to disconnect the systems and things, when suddenly…! The alarm on the console went off! The power levels were starting to climb to critical levels!

“Oh, my!!” cried Brain “It’s a system overload!”

That’s when the mirror glowed brighter than ever and began to vibrate violently, and it actually shook itself off the generator it was built on and began to bounce along the room like a mad creation!

“Look out!” shouted Grand Ruler.

Princess Luna got distracted by the ordeal, and broke her eye contact, causing her spell to cease and her clouds outside to fade off, once again unveiling the full moon.

“Quickly…! Try and hold it steady!” cried Celestia, and she and the others used their magic to halt the mirror in its tracks… directly by the window, but at that exact moment the moon had moved to that precise spot in the sky, putting it in perfect alignment with the stars.

Suddenly, POW… a large beam of bright moonlight shot right through the open window, right onto the face of the mirror, and instead of merely opening the gateway, because the mirror was no so unstable, it instead combined the gateway magic with the light that shining on it and fired it way out into space!

Then the mirror just keeled over onto the floor and shattered.

Everyone in the lab was shocked and totally silent by what had just happened and they were all especially worried with wonder about where the light was going, but there was no time to actually track it, or even warn anyone as it was traveling too fast!

Back on Conva, Cerise and all her guards banded together ready to take on Vulcan and the other prisoners, whom were marching along with the Lingos and the soldiers were backing out of the tower, while the aliens all stood directly at the doorway.

“And now…” Vulcan sneered “It’s time for a little payback!”

“Bring it on!” said Cerise, but just as the brawl was ready to begin, the sky went really bright. Everyone looked up and saw a mysterious beam of sparkling light heading straight their way!

“LOOK OUT!!” shouted Cerise, and she and her soldiers dashed for their lives just as the light slammed hard into the tower, forcing Vulcan and the others back inside. All at once, the place began to warp!

“What’s happening?!” cried Marla.

“It’s some kind of trans-warping magic!” shouted Bronc.

“I think I’m going to be sick!” groaned Keto, and as for Vulcan, “No!!” he shouted “My revenge!! This can’t be happening!”

The entire tower was enveloped in the light, and in a bright flash the light had ceased, but the tower and the prisoners were nowhere to be seen!

Cerise and the soldiers could not believe their eyes, and though it was a deep concern to figure out what happened, the prison riot was still happening and they were needed elsewhere to try and contain the other escaping prisoners.

Valiantly as they tried, in the end, all the prisoners from the main complex had escaped out into space.

(1:51)

“Oh, No…!” Cerise whimpered.

The guards were equally as shocked and frightened as were the workers. This was a disaster to top all disasters!

***

Planet Earth, in the human world… the next day or so!

Mystic Island, just twenty miles off shore of the coast of California, home to a beautiful metropolis and the main base control of the Starfleet forces from that world, led by Major Sunset Shimmer.

It had been her home for quite some time after her many adventures, ordeals and other things many were already aware of.

In all that time, or rather more of it, she and her friends maintained the peace by using their powers handed to them by Commander Lightning Dawn and the deceased Princess Twilight Sparkle to battle evil and injustice that happened all over their world.

Unfortunately, they were all on an official hiatus from their heroic lives. Recently, Commander Lightning Dawn had returned and had taken all their energizer transformer badgers back with him to his world.

“Your energizers are in need of a good tune up so they can continue to work properly. Unfortunately, you don’t have the right magic or the proper technologies to do that here. So I’ll take them back with me. It will take a little while, but as soon as we’re done I’ll bring them straight back.”

Heeding his advice and trusting him, the team gave him their energizers, and had been without them for a few days now and thankfully there had no crimes and no dangers for them to worry about.

Right now, the friends were on their final years as students at Canterlot High. All of them were ready to graduate High School.

School was out for the day, and everyone was hanging out on the front steps of the building. Yet each and every one of them seemed more downhearted about things as they all

“Just think, one more semester and we’re done here.” said Sunset.

“Does that mean… we all just go our separate ways?” asked Buddy Rose.

“No!” snapped Pinkie and she grabbed the two Spanish twins, Dyno and Myte, “We can’t! We won’t! We mustn’t! We’re friends to the end! Inseparable! Stuck like glue!”

“We get the idea, Pinkie!” groaned Dyno. “Por Favor! Please let us go!” cried Myte. Pinkie let them go and backed sheepishly away and the twins breathed in relief.

“We can still keep in touch…” said Starla Shine “I mean we are a team.”

“A team would be too simple, dear.” said Rarity “Why, I actually think of us as… dare I say… family?”

Everyone agreed with her.

“The family that picks together, stays together.” said Applejack.

“What are you basing that on?” asked Artie.

Rainbow Dash seemed to be the only one whom wasn’t too fazed by the possibility of long separation as she casually kicked a soccer ball and did her usual show off of tricks.

“Well, on a plus side. No more school means we’ll have more times for things we like. Like sports…” she kicked the ball hard, clear across and all the way to the football field, hitting the goal line.

“Or even music…!” she whipped out her guitar and began to rock out. Some of the others jumped in and danced along with the music.

Fluttershy gripped Rhymey’s hand, and Rhymey smiled at his girlfriend.

“I just bet
You’ll be a great vet.”

She giggled softly, “Well, your idea to open up your own poetry corner and café sounds really good too, but… well… I--” she paused “Whatever happens, I hope we can still be together.”

His response; a tender peck on her forehead…

The others thought that was very sweet.

Artie then felt Sunset place her hand over his, and then she pecked him on the cheek. “What was that for?” he playfully asked.

His girlfriend smirked, “I’ll tell you over a milkshake… your treat.”

“Yes, my treat.”

They got up, bid their friends goodbye, and walked off arm-in-arm.

“Awe, they are so cute together.” cooed Pinkie Pie.

“I couldn’t agree more.” added Rarity “You’d think they were meant to be together.”

Buddy chuckled softly, and when the others asked he answered, “Well, I promised not to tell sunset, but not you guys…” he motioned them all to come closer and whispered what he knew.

…everyone suddenly was bustling with excitement and anxiety, “He’s going to pop the question to Sunset?” Rainbow squealed softly.

Buddy nodded, and explained…

A week ago, he tending to his school garden in the front yard, when he noticed Artie was all alone, and he was talking to a tree, pretending it was Sunset because of the way he kept saying her name, and then he held out a ring he had bought and was practicing proposing to Sunset, using the tree as a figure.

Naturally, he had to ask about it, and he got his answer.

“I’m going to ask to Sunset to marry me, Bud. I’ve made up my mind.”

“Whoa! That’s a big step man. Are you sure about this?”

Though Sunset was an alien from the Dimensional Universe, and she was a former evil villainess, that was all in the past. She had come a long way, and was proven to be a very caring and loyal person. “And it’s not all that…” Artie said “I want to give her a good home, and share my life with her, so when we’re done school, maybe she’ll have a lot more to think about.”

He had a great point there. Canterlot high was practically the only lifestyle Sunset ever knew.

The Twins had tears in their eyes, “Man, that is so deep.” cried Dyno. “It’s so deep, it’s… beautiful!” added Myte.

The others all agreed, and some of the girls had tears in their eyes.

“Do you think she’ll accept?” asked Fluttershy.

“Well, it’s up to her…” said Applejack “But if I were here, I’d take what I could get.”

Just then, Twilight Sparkle-- the original human-- came walking along with Spike riding in her backpack.

Her friends called over to her. Rainbow called to her, “Hey Twilight… we’re heading out for some grub. You want in?”

“Can’t, I’m busy.” replied Twilight.

“Yeah, she’s going to help Grandruler with his secret project.” Spike added, but Twilight quickly covered his mouth, not so he wouldn’t blurt out the project. “Spike… there’s too many people around. We can’t let them know you can actually talk.”

Spike felt annoyed, but he complied as he slipped back into Twilight’s backpack and Twilight apologized to her friend again before walking off.

Buddy Rose sighed, “Gee, that girl works way too much.”

“Well, it was nice of Mr. Grandruler to offer her a job with his companies.” said Fluttershy.

“Especially since we all know how much busier he’s gonna be in a few more months.” Rainbow teased.

Rhymey chuckled and recited…

“First came love, and then came marriage…
And soon, there will be a baby carriage.”

“More like two carriages.” said a voice, and there was Principal Celestia, six months pregnant, standing at the doors.

“Two?!” cried Pinkie “You mean you’re…”

Celestia nodded and stroked her large, swollen belly, “I had my ultra sound yesterday… it’s Fraternal Twins!”

More happiness and more joy spread through the gang. Celestia even received a few hugs and congratulatory handshakes.

“Congratulations!” cried Starla.

“Oh, I’m so happy for you!” added Rarity.

Celestia chuckled, “Thank you everyone. Oh, I can hardly wait, and neither can Celesto. He’s been working so hard to make sure everything is okay… as well as spending time on his secret project.”

Vice Principal Luna came out, “Come, sister, you should get home. The doctor told you to get plenty of rest. You’ll be on maternity leave soon.”

Celestia rolled her eyes, but bid her students goodbye before heading off with her sister.

Pinkie Pie was grinning so wide, the others though she was going to break her jaw.

“Um, you okay, Pinkie?” asked Rainbow.

“Oh, I’m just sooooo happy!” cried Pinkie “Think about it. Celestia’s pregnant, we’re all going to graduate soon, and Artie’s going to propose to Sunset…!

…I think this is the happiest day I’ve ever known!”

The others couldn’t help but agree with her. So much love, so much happiness, apart from their little sad worries about separation.

They couldn’t think of anything that would make things go wrong!

On a very tiny island, somewhere in the pacific,

Prison Tower Seven had long since materialized after that freak accident on Planet Conva,

All the systems still seemed to be functioning despite the minor damages, and thanks to the solar panels on the tower outside.

Marla, Bronc and Keto had awakened, and were stumbling about, as well as some of the Lingos.

“What a wild trip that was?” groaned Keto as he leaned against Marla.

“Eww… get off me, shrimp.” Marla grouched as she shoved him off of her.

“Hey!” he snarled.

“Somebody sure has a temper.” Bronc muttered. Then Marla shrieked, “My hair… My nails… my everything… AHAA-OW! It’ll take me forever to make myself look pretty again!”

The guys were already annoyed with her, “Hey, at least we’re free!” said Keto “And we don’t have to put up with Starfleet.”

“That may be…” agreed Bronc, then he looked out a window and could see nothing but ocean for miles, “But exactly where are we? That trans-warp force could have sent us anywhere.”

“…We’ll soon find out!” hissed a wicked voice. The others all looked and saw Vulcan stepping out from the shadows. He glared at the three and practically demanded at Marla and her Lingos, “You… send those, whatever you call them out to find out where we are.” then he glared at Keto “You, you’re a mage, some way to get those creeps going so they can scout out.” Finally he looked at Bronc “And you… help me make this place livelier. It’s a mess!”

Keto blinked nervously, feeling intimidated by Vulcan’s appearance and voice, but Marla bolted upright and sneered, “Hey! Who died and put you in charge?”

Her answer was Vulcan heating up with fury, as was evidenced by the way his hair glowed a bright yellow, and he aimed a powerful blast at several Lingos, vaporizing them in a heartbeat, which made Marla fall to her knees, and quivered.

All three of the creatures could see Vulcan meant business as he stated, “Let what you have just seen be a warning to all of you. I don’t tolerate such attitudes thrown at me.”

Knowing they didn’t have a chance against such a powerful creep, but still frightened by his intimidation, they couldn’t seem to bring themselves to answer.

Vulcan cleared his throat and calmly said “Of course, being a man of business, I can make you a good offer.

You see, as a successful, but hard-working guy, I could use a helping hand to obtain my goals. I suppose I can… SHARE my soon to be wonderful, bountiful glory with all of you like the many before I have worked with.”

The others were starting to feel less intimidated and rather interested.

“However…” Vulcan stated “Let’s get one thing straight: I’m in charge! What I say goes… and anyone who dares to defy me… oppose me… or get in my way…” he paused as he charged up for another blast “…Let’s just say it won’t be pretty.”

Realizing their options, and feeling it’d be better to stick close for survival.

“But of course… Master Vulcan.” said Bronc

“Anything you say… sir.” added Keto.

Even Marla had to comply, “Yeah, what they said.”

Vulcan snickered “That’s more like it...” then he looked out the window at the sea surrounding the island. Though he still wondered how much more there was out there, he had a feeling that this world would bring him a pretty handsome price in his Planet Broker business, and maybe more.

“Yes…” he said, “…If all goes as I think it will, this world will be mine! Mine… MINE!!” He laughed wickedly.

The others still felt a little nervous, but the thought of having so much power made them grin sinisterly.

To Be Continued!

Episode 7: All Work and No Energy

EPISODE SEVEN

Celestia and Celesto were at the hospital that day; Celestia was having another one of her checkups for the baby. Dr. Penny was checking both babies’ heartbeats. She smiled and said as she patted Celestia’s large belly, “…Some feisty kids you got in there.”

Celesti smiled and touched her belly herself. “I can’t wait to see them born, mostly so I can get back to my normal size.”

Penny chuckled, “Well, it’s going to be another month or so for you. In the meantime, you get plenty of rest and stick to your diet.”

Celestia agreed, but she seemed a little down.

“Is everything okay?” asked Penny.

“It’s my husband… he’s been working non-stop day and night lately.”

Penny noted this too, but also pointed that Celesto wasn’t in any danger, nor was he that unhealthy. “Most men like him go through this, especially when about to be fathers. Believe me, I’ve seen many of them, but it also could be an act of concern.”

She did not know that Celesto was the one managing the Power Rangers, but she was aware of all the hard work he poured into the city-- running his companies, all the buildings he owned, managing the school board, and now about to be a father too.

Still, even Celestia couldn’t deny that Celesto meant very well for everyone. “Where is he?” she asked.

“I think he’s visiting your students.” replied Penny.

Indeed he was. He, like all the others, would come every so and so to check up on the comatose students. They seemed to be doing a lot better, their external injuries were healing nicely… but they were still unconscious, and it had been weeks since the accident.

He clenched his fists softly and vowed, “Vulcan, mark my words… you’ll pay for what you’ve done to my students.”

(Que Intro)

Meanwhile, Vulcan was ruthlessly ordering the minions about all over the prison, making them do chores, tending to the prisoners’ needs to keep them fit and healthy, to the point where they were all starting to complain.

“This bites…!” groaned Keto “Scrub the floors, clean the empty cells, feed the prisoners; I’m going out of my mind here!”

Marla gazed down at her bandaged fingers, “If I have to scrub anymore food trays, my bones will show.”

Bronc on the other hand seemed to be enjoying his work, as he insulted them, “You two really are a bunch of lazy lugs. You don’t work hard enough.”

He reflected on how he missed the old days, he was a great technician and designed amazing machines and gadgets for technological companies throughout the dimensional star-systems. Working hard day and night and getting so much done… it made him snap.

Worse, he was often mocked and criticised by fellow colleagues that he opted to get back at them. That’s when he really went too far, using his work to get revenge on people and cause pain and trouble.

He even created the powerful suit he was wearing now, that enhanced his strength and body, and gave him his current powers. With it, he would create rouge programs and devices that caused vast amounts of trouble and chaos.

“I would have been the most powerful programing engineer in the universe were it not for Starfleet! They caught me, destroyed my beautiful life’s work, and they sentenced me to this living nightmare of a dungeon where I spent the most boring two centuries of my life!”

“Whatever!” scoffed Keto, and Marla “If you could work all that hard, how come even you can’t come up with a way to beat the rangers?”

Bronc felt most annoyed.

That’s when Vulcan came along. “So, you all don’t like doing your chores do you?” he teased “Well then, perhaps if you can come with an idea to beat the rangers, I may just spare you from more agony.”

Bronc suddenly remembered something… or rather someone. “I believe I already have the perfect idea, Master.”

He walked down a few cells and then released a creature that seemed to resemble that of a large tire pump, but with six hoses, and they weren’t pumping air. “Pump’s the name… Energy is my game.”

Bronc explained about Pump, “He has the power to give people injections of power so they’d just take off at fast paces, blowing their natural energies faster, allowing him to absorb it all for himself to gain power, and then use that power against his enemies.

The rangers will be too tired to even stand, let alone fight.”

Vulcan seemed a bit unimpressed, but he was willing to try. “Very well, Bronc, but be warned, I’m running out of patience! This had better work.”

“Work… is something I enjoy over many things.” hissed Bronc. “Me too…” added Pump.

The rangers, unmorphed, were seemingly fighting against a swarm of Lingos within the city, but in the end, it was actually computer simulation programs being run at their base as part of a little training to help them brush up.

The rangers were all feeling a wee bit tuckered out after a couple of hours.

Panting and drying herself off with a towel, Sunset asked, “That was it? Please tell me that was the last lap?”

“That’s all for today.” Twilight answered from the computer cockpit where she ran the simulation.

The rangers all left the simulation chamber. “Whew, I tell you, this is so not how I like to spend my Saturdays.” said Buddy.

“Are you kidding?” Rainbow said “I can hardly go an hour any day without any athletic.”

She reflected on all the many things she liked to do-- Skateboarding, Soccer, Basketball, even just plain lap running. One of her other favorite times was rocking out on her guitar…

…she snapped back into reality and felt very embarrassed. “Sorry…”

The others sighed, feeling they all had been working a bit hard lately, what between school, their studies, their part-time jobs, all coupled with their ranger duties.

Spike couldn’t help but chuckle “You think you guys got it rough? Twilight here actually likes all work and no play.”

Twilight took slight offense to that. “Hey! I have fun sometimes too.”

“Yeah, the most fun you’ve ever had was cramming for a test two months in advance.”

“What about when I take you out on walks? We have fun then, don’t we?”

“Yeah, I roll about and chase squirrels while you look over your study papers and work on your laptop.”

Fluttershy intervened before a fight broke out. “Come on, now. I don’t think it really matters who does what, as long as they enjoy it.”

Rhymey agreed and said,

“We each have a way,
Be it work, or be it play.
It’s how the world goes round,
And gets us to where we are bound.”

The others agreed, and Rainbow and Sunset decided to head off and go to the skate park, while Buddy went to tend to his garden, and Fluttershy and Rhymey decided to get a milkshake.

Spike gave Twilight a queer look, hinting he, too, wanted to get out and have a bit of fun, and the more Twilight thought of it, she had been working a bit too much lately. “I guess a little break won’t hurt.”

She hooked her dog to his leash, and they went off too.

Though it was Saturday, it was pretty much an okay days. Some people were working; others were shopping for their families. Still some were out playing or enjoying life

All this while a song played, and even the rangers were shown in a few scenes.

All were too busy to notice Bronc and Pump appear in an empty area of the city. “All right, do your thing.”

“You got it.” said Pump, and with that, he magically drove his hoses into the ground and began to pump, sending a flow of purple light along the ground and into the city.

Suddenly, anyone the energy touched, or anyone who stepped into it became infected, and began to go about whatever they were doing faster and harder than ever.

Among the first infected were Rhymey and Fluttershy.

They were enjoying a large chocolate malted with two straws, like a cute couple they were; slowly sucking in the drink while peeking at each other as their fingers intertwined with each other’s.

Suddenly, as the energy hit them, they drank their malted faster until there nothing left, and they spoke very quickly to one another.

“What should we do now?”

“We could take a walk in the park!
Hurry, before it gets dark!”

They walked, or rather ran off quickly, despite the fact it was barely just after midday and nowhere near dark hours yet.

All over town, people were rushing recklessly in such hurries to get to where they wanted to be or do what they wanted to do next like there wasn’t going to be a tomorrow.

Buddy Rose even rushed to the store on his scooter, practically in a panic. “Need more fertilizer! Gotta get more fertilizer! GET OUT OF MY WAY!!”

The stores were already packed because people were in such hurries. The cashiers were having a time keeping up with hurrying crowds that it made the lines build up, and other people were fighting with one another over who got the last of whatever was on the shelf, causing more delay and confusion.

As the more the people hurried, energy from their bodies began to seep into the cursed grounds and traveling all the way back to Pump, whom absorbed the energy from the humans through his hoses in the ground, and his power increased dramatically.

He laughed wickedly, “Pretty soon they’ll be so tired they’ll barely be able to stand.”

Bronc snickered, “Wonderful… looks like everyone will be all worked out.”

Sunset and Rainbow were still hanging at the skate-park, where the energy hadn’t drained yet.

“This one I call, the Double Dash Deluxe!” Rainbow called as she grabbed her board and zoomed down the ramp like a race car, and soared up high with a flip and a kick before landing perfectly on her feet, with her board by her side.

“Oh, yeah… try this.” Sunset said as she kicked her board down “The Super Sunset Spinarama!”

She zoomed down the ramp, and then soared way up high, flipping upside down and spun in several pirouettes before making a perfect dismount.

Rainbow acted a bit jealous and astounded and went back up for another go, but Sunset was getting a bit tuckered out. “Don’t you think you’ve had enough already?” she asked.

“Are you kidding?” snorted Rainbow “I haven’t even begun to show off my skills!” and she just kept right on going, leaving sunset to sit on a bench and rest.

Twilight and Spike came along, and Twilight looked out of breath, and she couldn’t wait to use the drinking fountain. The way she gulped and gulped, you’d think she’d want to drink it all dry!

“What happened to you?” Sunset asked.

Twilight pointed down at Spike panting “He… happened to me. I never knew he run for so long.”

“What? Those squirrels were taunting me.” Spike said, but he spoke softly so not to be overheard by other skaters.

Everyone was so preoccupied, that no one noticed the energy streams heading straight into the park, but they already had spread across the streets nearby.

…Suddenly, there was a car crash, causing a chain-reaction of more and more cars slamming into one another.

Rainbow and the others skaters hadn’t seen or heard it as they were all too distracted with their skating, but the others saw and raced to the scene, running right into the energy stream.

What they saw next was crazy! People getting out of their cars and panicking that they would be late. Others were arguing with one another about whose fault it was that caused the accident.

Among the crowds were Celesto and Celestia, their limo was caught in the crash as well.

“Hey! My wife is pregnant!”

“Who cares, I was in a hurry!”

Celestia even got into arguments with a couple of ladies.

As the adults continued to quarrel and panic, their bodies began to glow softly, much to the girls’ shock. “What’s happening to them?” asked Sunset.

“I… don’t know.”

Suddenly, the people just collapsed in the streets, exhausted and weary, and they stopped glowing.

No one said a thing, but Spike turned round to look back at the skaters, “Whoa… look at that!”

The girls turned and saw all the skaters going crazy. Zooming and zipping about, while being bathed in strange light coming from the ground.

Even Rainbow was rushing about to do as many stunts as she possibly could, which lead her to making numerous mistakes and take so many falls.

“Rainbow, stop!” cried Sunset.

“I can’t stop, not now. Gotta get these tricks right, or I’ll run out of time!”

So she kept on running about with the other skaters.

Twilight began to wonder, and she held out a small tracking device she had built, that resembled a magnifying glass. “Weird, their molecules have been drastically sped up, and their accelerating faster.”

Suddenly, Rainbow and the skaters glowed, just like the people in the traffic, and they all collapsed. Twilight checked her scanner, “Now their energy is way low. It’s like they’ve blown themselves out.”

Sunset got a bad feeling in the pit of her stomach. “I don’t like this one bit.”

Suddenly, they heard someone laughing and turned to see Pump leaping from out of the bushes. “Well, I like it just as well.”

Sunset put up her dukes, “I should’ve known this was Vulcan’s work!”

Pump noted that Sunset and Twilight didn’t seem affected by his energy drains. “Obviously, you two were already low in energy, but that doesn’t really matter to me. I can pump the living daylights out of you!”

“We’ll see about that.” sneered Sunset.

“Be careful, Sunset. My scans read his power is really high.” said Twilight.

Sunset nodded and stood ready, “It’s Morphin’ Time!

…Starfleet Magic… Power On!”

Once she was fully morphed she put up her dukes ready to fight. “Okay, you overgrown garden hose, let’s rumble!”

“Ha! You have no idea what you’re in for, Ranger!” snarled Pump, and he charged at her, while Sunset charged at him.

Sunset leapt up high for a jump kick, but Pump struck her in midair and Sunset flopped to the ground…

…Much to Spike and Twilight’s worry!

Sunset bolted up onto her feet and charged at the creature again, punching and kicking at him, but not only was she still rather weary from her skating, Pump was able to fight by swinging his hoses, as well as his arms. He blocked her every move and struck her each time, and bashed her backwards hard.

“Whoa! This is tougher than I thought!” groaned Sunset.

Pump then aimed his six hoses outward and gave a huge pump, sending out powerful beams, blasting all around and hitting Sunset, knocking her over.

Pump laughed and mocked, “What’s wrong? Too tired to actually land a hit?”

Sunset growled, but really she didn’t think she could beat this creep by herself. “I could really use some help.”

Twilight and Spike could see she was in real trouble, and Twilight grabbed her cell-phone to contact the base and warn them about the trouble…

Only for a stray laser beam to shoot it right out of her hand, destroying it!

It was Bronc, and he snickered wickedly, “I don’t think so.”

Twilight fell on her bottom and inched away as he approached, while Spike stood forth growling and snarling at Bronc. “I wouldn’t try anything if I were you…” Bronc warned, and then motioned behind him. There, stood the Lingos, holding Buddy, Rhymey and Fluttershy, still pooped out, hostage.

Sunset saw them. “Let them go!” she demanded, but she got ensnared by Pump’s hoses. “Sorry, line’s tied up.” Then he extended his hoses and ensnared Twilight and Spike as well. “You may not have full levels of energy, but you’ll do as well.”

Bronc enjoyed this very much, and then ordered the other Lingos, “Get the last ranger, and then we’ll pay a visit to Master Vulcan. I’ll show him how much good work can payoff”

The Lingos moved in on Rainbow, whom was sill flat on the ground with her skateboard next to her. “Rainbow Dash…! Look out!” Sunset called.

Pump tightened his grip on her, “Why don’t you drain those worries away.” He teased, and he began to drain her energy as well as Spike and Twilight’s, and absorb the power to him…!

However, just as the Lingos were about to put the grab on Rainbow, she snapped wide awake, bolted onto feet and gave the Lingos a huge swat with her skateboard.

“What?!” snapped Bronc.

Rainbow smirked and said “Looks like I just got my second wind.” She gripped her skateboard tightly, “Told ya I can’t get enough of sports, it’s how I get my… KICKS!” and she kicked more of the Lingo’s down.

“Blast you!” thundered Bronc and he fired his lasers at her, but Rainbow hopped on her board and skated skillfully around each shot, giving her a chance to morph…

She leapt off her board, flipping through the air…

“Starfleet Magic! Power On!”

And she soared forth, kicking Pump hard in the face, knocking him hard and forcing him to release his prisoners, and she kicked right off him, heading the other Lingo’s holding her friends, bouncing off each of their heads, forcing them to drop the other rangers.

“Oh, no you don’t!” snarled Bronc, but as he charged forth he stepped on Rainbow’s skateboard and slid off, falling into the bushes.

Rainbow rushed over to Sunset and Twilight, “You guys okay?”

“Just a little drained, but we’ll be fine.” said Twilight.

“Great job, Rainbow.” said Sunset.

The others rangers were starting to come too after their small rest. “Man, what’s happening?” asked Buddy.

Rhymey rubbed his head,

“Oh, my…!
…Fluttershy?”

“I’m here…” Fluttershy groaned “What happened?”

“Come on, guys, we need some help here.” Sunset called to them. “Just morph, and your energy will be restored.” added Twilight.

Wearily the other stood, “Come on, guys…” said Buddy, “…It’s Morphin’ Time!”

“STARFLEET MAGIC!! POWER ON!!”

Once they were morphed, they all felt much better, stronger and more awake.

“Alright, let’s take this creep!” said Buddy.

Pump struggled back to his feet growling, “I need more energy… COME TO ME!!”

He stuck his hoses out in all directions began to pump furiously, absorbing more energy from the people in the city that were affected by his spell, causing anyone whom was coming to to collapse from exhaustion again.

The rangers and Twilight were unaffected, due to having already been zapped hard enough, but as Pump absorbed the power, his muscled budged out and his hoses enlarged.

“Whoa, look how huge he is now!” cried Fluttershy.

Bronc stood up from the bushes, but then ducked back behind them, “You’ve had it, Rangers.” he called “I’ve known this creature to destroy many just by glaring at them.”

“He’s not kidding…” snickered Pump “Now who wants to go first?”

The rangers, still skeptical but not discouraged, got out their weapons…

“Star Scepter!”

“Plasma Whip!”

“Sonic Cannon!”

“Raid Blade!”

“Strong Shield!”

“Time for us to cut your lines.” shouted Sunset.

Pump growled, and the rangers charged forth, but even at five against one, even with their weapons, Pump’s extra powers gave him quite the edge as he blocked every attack lunged at him with his arms and hoses, and then proceeded to bash, swatted, and knock each ranger away, sparks flew everywhere.

“Whoa, this guy really packs a punch!” groaned Rainbow.

“How can we possibly get at him?” asked Fluttershy.

“You can’t, I’m too strong.” Pump sneered, and he fired huge blasts from his hoses all around at them, making massive explosions sending them all falling all over the place.

“Hey, I think I’ve got it…” cried Rainbow “If we can’t outmatch him in strength, we’ll outwit him!”

The others liked the idea… since it was their only option.

“Let’s go!” shouted Sunset.

The rangers griped their weapons tight, and dashed towards the monster. “Ha! You just never learn, do you?” Pump sneered. He raised his hoses to smash them all at once, but at the last moment, the rangers scattered about causing Pump to miss.

“You can’t escape from me!” snarled Pump, and he brought of his hoses together to strike them out in all directions, but the hoses were suddenly ensnared by Buddy’s whip. “Looks like we can now.” teased Buddy, and he pressed a switch on his whip, “Plasmastic Shockwave… Go!” and he sent a powerful eave of shocking energy traveling along the whip, hitting Pump hard.

Pump growled softly “This barely tickles!”

“Well this won’t!” shouted Rainbow.

“Get him!” hollered Sunset, and the both leapt up high and fired powerful blasts from their weapons, hitting him hard. Then Rhymey came along and slashed at him hard with his sword.

Bronc was growing annoyed, “Hang on, Pump!” he called as he rushed over and prepared to fire his laser beams, but Fluttershy popped up in front of him holding up her shield, deflected the beam right back at him, and she then proceeded to kick him hard and sent him rolling along the ground.

“Blast you!” thundered Bronc.

“Actually you blasted your own self.” Fluttershy teased.

Bronc hated to admit to himself, but the way the battle was going “…I think I need a little help!”

Keto saw the whole thing on the monitors, “Aw… he admits he needs help.” he teased, but he still felt obliged to give it to him and aimed his staff out the window, “FORTISSIMO!”

Tha Magic Mugic soared across to the island, and began to work its magic over Pump, growing him to giant size. “Ah, yeah… I’m feeling so pumped!” he thundered.

The rangers gasped, and sunset contacted the base, “Launch Star-Jets!”

“Summon Zords!”

“Let’s go!” shouted Sunset, and she and the others jumped up high into their jets. “Bring ‘em together!”

“Zords Combine!”

“Jet-Star Megazord… Ready!”

The megazord stood tall and proud, but Pump was barely impressed. “Oh, yeah… try this!” he shouted as he extended his giant hoses ensnaring the Megazord from head to foot.

“We can’t move the arms.” cried Buddy.

“The legs are stuck too.” added Rainbow.

“Care to go for a little spin, Rangers?” Pump teased, and he began to whirl the megazord like a round and around like a hammer-throw.

“Oh no,
I think I’ll blow!” groaned Rhymey.

Fluttershy held on to her console tight.

“Here we go!” thundered Pump as he threw the megazord hard, and sent it crashing along the ground making the ground quake violently, and rocking the rangers about as sparks flew in cockpit.

Pump laughed wickedly at the fallen rangers.

“Come on guys, don’t give up!” Twilight called to them.

“Come on, Pump, finish them!” shouted Bronc.

Pump nodded at Bronc, “You got it!” and he began to stomp towards the Megazord just as it was standing upright.

“He’s coming straight at us!” cried Fluttershy.

Pump roared as he unleashed his hoses again, ensnaring the megazord’s left arm and legs again. “Now I got’cha!” he sneered at them “Power Rangers, prepare to meet your doom!”

“That’s what you think!” shouted Sunset “We still have one free arm.”

The megazord, with its one free hand, drew the sword from the sheath on its back, and slashed at the hoses, breaking them to bits. “A’RGH! My beautiful hoses!” cried Pump.

Quickly, before he could act or even try to recover, the rangers prepared for the finisher. “Power up the saber!” said Sunset.

“Star Saber… Engage!”

“Star Slash, Go!”

The saber, already glowing, the Megazord slashed hard, hitting Pump hard making him roar as his body flared up, “NOW… THIS… IS POWER!!” he shouted, and then he exploded, shrunk, imprisoned, and beamed into the megazord’s cockpit, much to the rangers’ pride.

“Monster Captured! Mission Complete!”

Twilight and Spike jumped for joy cheering, while Bronc was infuriated as well as annoyed by the two cheering for the rangers victory, “I’ll show you!” he thundered as he prepared to attack the two, but the rangers in their megazord stomped forth planning to capture him next.

The tractor beam fire, but Bronc leapt out of the way.

“We missed!” cried Rainbow.

Seeing his chance, “I’m outta’ here!” Bronc activated his teleporter and was gone, much to everyone’s disappointment.

“Someday, we’ll get you Bronc; you and Vulcan will never beat us!” Sunset sneered softly.

When Bronc got back to the tower, Vulcan was more than displeased with his failure and dropped a whole bunch of buckets, mops and brooms before him, ordering him to take over the rest of the chores, including Marla and Keto’s, as punishment.

“What? But I’ve already worked really hard today.” Bronc protested.

“Well, too bad it didn’t pay off… DID IT?!!” thundered Vulcan, and then he stormed off. “I’ve got important work to do!”

Bronc decided to get straight to work, but Marla and Keto couldn’t help but mock him.

“Well, you said you like to work hard.” teased Marla “Now you have all the work you could ever want.” added Keto.

Some of the prisoners laughed at him, but Bronc was far from impressed. “I’ll show you all someday.” he grumbled “My work is far from done!”

He was so infuriated that he snapped his mop in half at the handle.

With Pump gone, his cursed energy waves faded, and the people all over the city finally came to after a small rest. Although the city was still in a bit of a mess what all the car crashes and messed up stores, thankfully no one got hurt badly and insurances would pay for things.

As for Twilight’s Cell-phone, there was no way she could repair it, but luckily she had extras--being a super smart but super busy girl she would often misplace her phones, and kept others as backup.

Even Celestia and Celesto were okay once they woke up, but they quickly raced back to the hospital to check on the babies.

“They’re just fine…you’re very lucky.” said Dr. Penny.

Everyone felt so relieved, but suddenly there was an announcement over the intercom “Paging Dr. Sillon. A new crowd of exhausted patients require your help.”

Penny sighed. Ever since people started waking up the hospital had been flooded with those whom were injured, though not too seriously, and others wishes for examinations.

“We can help you out.” Sunset offered.

“Yeah, we’re all good at first aid.” added Fluttershy.

The others nodded in agreement, and much to Penny’s thanks, they soon were all helping her tend to the crowd of people, helping treat their wounds and injures. Even Celestia and Celesto offered to help.

It was sundown by the time things began to quiet down, and everyone was naturally exhausted.

“I think I can safely say,
We’ve all had a busy day.” said Rhymey.

“Even I don’t think I have much wind left.” said Rainbow.

“Wow, you’re finally tired.” Buddy teased “It’s not often we see that.”

That earned him a playful nudge from Rainbow, everyone chuckled. Celesto then said “Well, thanks to all of you and your efforts, everything is safe. Well done, Rangers.”

Celestia playful stroked her stomach “at least it’s nice to know I can bring two babies into the world where we have good heroes.”

The rangers felt flattered, and Twilight looked around “Where’s Sunset?”

Spike poked up from inside her backpack, despite no animals being allowed in the hospital, and he answered “She’s gone off to see the others.”

They all walked down the hall to the ward where the others still lay resting in their deep comas, and there was Sunset slowly pacing the room, gazing at each friend she passed by, wishing they would wake up, but the doctors told her it would take time.

At the end of the line she stopped at her boyfriend’s bed. “Hi, Artie…” she spoke softly, and she gently held his hand. It felt a little cooler than usual due to lack of use.

“I wish you could’ve seen us out there today. We really kicked that monster’s butt.”

Artie of course didn’t respond. He didn’t even tighten his grip on her hand, which saddened her greatly. “I won’t stop fighting.” She said to him “I’ll keep being brave and strong, for everyone… and you.”

She bent down softly pecking Artie’s healed forehead.

The others thought that was sweet but a little heartbreaking as well. All they could do was continue to hope that their friends would awake… someday.

Episode 17: Life is a Bash

Author's Note

Speaking of Bashing, lots of people bash me for this fic and the way I write it (My preferances)

Here's a blog that explains more...

https://www.fimfiction.net/blog/724125/only-my-satisfaction-matters

Episode 17: Life is a Bash

EPISODE SEVENTEEN

Very early one morning, Vulcan’s minions were looking through the files trying to decide which monster to send after the rangers next.

“Yuck! Too ugly.” groaned Keto, “Too wimpy… Nah, this one doesn’t look good either.”

Marla growled in frustration, “They’re all a bunch of wimps! Is there anyone in this prison that can beat at least one ranger?”

Bronc very much doubted that, “they wouldn’t all even be locked up in this prison if they could have beaten Starfleet in the first place. For that matter, neither would we, nor would Vulcan.”

As outraged as Marla felt, the facts couldn’t be argued.

Suddenly, all three of them heard the sound of Vulcan screaming from his private lab followed by flashing lights emitting from the teensy cracks in the doors.

Inside the lab, Vulcan was screaming because his head was wired to a machine that seemed to be absorbing energy from his very brain! When it all was over, Vulcan groaned and collapsed onto the floor.

He looked up and ahead at his creation and thought deeply, “Every working moment, every painful struggle… it’s all worth it to give to you.”

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door to his lab.

“Master Vulcan…” Bronc called “Are you alright sir?”

His strength slowly returning, Vulcan angrily managed to pick himself up and march angrily to the door. He opened t and glared furiously at the minions. “Never…!” he growled, frightening them “…You were told NEVER to disturb me here!”

The minions all shuddered, “W-w-we thought you were hurt, sir.” said Keto, but Vulcan didn’t seem to care a bit for their concern, and slid the doors shut, locking them again.

“Well excuse us for caring!” grumbled Marla.

Keto seemed more concerned about the beat up shape Vulcan looked in, as he had been beaten by a wrecking ball…!

“Hey! He suddenly said “I think I’ve got just the plan, one that will mean the end of the rangers for good.”

Bronc and Marla looked at each in curiosity at what Keto had planned.

(Que intro)

Celestia and Celesto brought the babies home, but of course with their new responsibilities… it really took its toll on them. Changing diapers round the clock, the babies crying in the middle of the night and keeping them awake and not calming down even if rocked or comforted.

It was as if the babies were just crying to exercise their lungs… and they had some pretty powerful lungs for little ones.

The two lost much sleep over this. Even though the servants agreed to help out, Celestia and Celesto wouldn’t have it. They promised to take care of the kids themselves like true parents… even if it meant, Celestia feel asleep while washing out the many baby bottles in the kitchen sink, forgetting to shut the water off and getting suds all over herself…

Of course, her sister was there half the time to keep her sister a little on track and help out when it was obviously needed.

She placed the calm, quiet babies in their high chairs, and couldn’t help but snigger softly at how silly her sister looked sleeping over the sink. She shut off the water and wiped up the puddles and suds.

Celestia wearily opened her eyes and realized she was all wet and her hair was covered in suds, but she took one look at her sweet children and smiled a sleepy smile “Finally, they quieted down.” she muttered, but she spoke too soon as the babies began to wail and cry again… they were hungry for their breakfast.

“Oh, no…!” Celestia groaned, and her left eye twitched on the brink of a mental-breakdown.

Still, soon the two sisters were quietly feeing the babies and keeping them calm, though Celestia drifted off to sleep several times causing her to drop Castor’s bottle, and her little son gave out a little scream… which upset his twin sister, and Leilani began to cry too.

“Oh!” groaned Celestia, and even her sister was starting to feel a little annoyed too, but she promised to stay with her while Celesto was at work. They both wondered how he was handling the strain.

The Jet Star Megazord and the Comet Striker were already up and about in town, but there was no monster to deal with. Instead, the two zords began to smash and demolish a row of buildings and high rises.

“Take that!” Sunset shouted as she mad the megazord shove its first right through a building.

“WHA-HOO!! Having some fun now…!” Rainbow cheered as she made the megazord kick a hole right in the building’s side.

Lightning grabbed hold of a high rise and literally pulled the top of it clean off. “Wow, this could’ve been a whole new career.” he said with enjoyment.

Fluttershy, being her usually meek self, found it hard to really bring herself to demolish the buildings. All she did was raise the megazord’s arm, but barely gave it any power so it merely just touched the building like a feather.

The others were very dismayed, but managed to help her find her strength, and began to help smash the buildings properly.

As the zords continued to demolish the buildings, a whole crowd of people watched from far away, and were actually cheering the destruction on.

The buildings were in fact being demolished to make way for modern development, or just to get some that monster attacks had wrecked out of the way.

Many of the buildings were part of Celesto’s businesses, and he had personally asked the rangers to break down the buildings to save money on machinery and things… though to keep his ties to being the rangers’ boss and creator of their gear secret, he made it look as if he had officially hired them, by putting out ads in the newspapers and stuff.

To make good on his word, he even promised he’d pay the rangers’ a-hundred dollars each, just as long as the job got done and the secrecy was maintained.

The buildings were all demolished faster, and the cleanup was easier thanks to megazords abilities. The rubble was all cleared out and placed on big tanker barges headed for the mainland to throw in the landfills.

Once this was all done, the rangers sent the jets back to base to recharge, and Lightning deactivated his armor and shrunk back to normal size.

The rangers remained morphed as the cheering town’s people approached them, and all the contractors and construction men were very pleased and thankful to the rangers.

“Thanks to you we can start our projects way ahead of schedule. We’ll save a fortune.”

Sunset nodded and said, “We were happy to help out.”

A young boy, wearing a power rangers T-shirt, couldn’t help but ask, “But I thought Power Rangers weren’t supposed to use their powers for personal gain or things like that?”

“Well, most of the time…” Buddy answered “But we also help people when they need it, especially for a good cause like helping develop the city.”

A teenage girl approached Lightning, not knowing who he really was, and asked giddily for his autograph and to have a selfie with him, to which he happy served.

After extending a few more thanks, handshakes, and autographs and pictures, the rangers headed back to base.

Once there, they finally powered down their suits. Twilight and the pets were there waiting for them.

“Call me crazy or call me mad,
That’s the most fun I’ve ever had.” said Rhymey.

Fluttershy acted insulted and turned playfully away.

Her boyfriend sighed and said,

“Except for the times I spend with you,
I mean that… really, I do.”

Fluttershy turned, smiling lovingly and pecked him on the cheek.

“Man, that was so cool!” said Fluttershy “Smashing the windows, breaking the bricks… INCOMING!!”

Twilight typed into the computers, “Well don’t forget, this wasn’t just for the city’s benefit, it was also to test out the zords after their tune-up and reconfiguration. So far it all seems fine. Just a little bit more programing needs to be done.”

“We’ve been meaning to ask; what are you programing anyway?” asked Sunset.

Spike began to speak, “Oh, she’s planning on making the--” but he was silenced when Krysta landed on his nose and flapped furiously in his face going, “It’s supposed to be a surprised, fur-ball!”

Spike and Krysta began to wrestle, and their owners pulled them apart from each other. “You two know better than that.” Lightning scolded.

The pets growled softly at one another, but they agreed to stop fighting.

“Whatever your new project is, I can’t wait to see it.” said Fluttershy.

“Speaking of projects…” Rainbow cut in, “I think we’re entitled to our fee now.”

“Rainbow!” sneered Twilight. “Hey, come on now, we made a deal with Grandruler.” Buddy reminded her.

Speaking of whom, Celesto was sleeping silently with his head down on the central table. He was obviously very exhausted as was hinted by how slightly messy his hair looked, and the fact he was wearing his cape inside out.

“Poor man!” whispered Sunset.

“Maybe we should just forget the money after all.” said Rainbow.

Celesto began to stir, and he heard everything. “No… Rainbow…” he said in a weary voice as he slowly got, “We had a deal… and I’m a man of my word.”

He handed the rangers each $100 just like he promised, but the team could only take their pity.

“Those babies are non-stop criers.” Celesto groaned “Crying for this, crying for that. Soiling their diapers, throwing their food, needing constant attention…”

He then looked at the baby pictures on his phone, and smiled at the little ones.

Lightning softly patted his back, “That’s every parent’s dilemma, balancing work and family. I studied about it; more people lose much sleep over that than anything else in the world.”

“Why don’t to take a couple of hours off?” Fluttershy suggested.

Celesto yawned, “No, no, I couldn’t possibly. I still have to talk to the contractors about the new buildings, and then of course there’s the labs here, the progress reports, the accounts…” he let out another huge yawn and nearly drifted off to sleep again, almost falling off his stool, but Lightning and Sunset caught him.

“You need to rest…” said Sunset “What good is doing work if you don’t do a good job of it? You taught us that.”

Celesto sighed “So I did.” Finally giving in to his exhaustion and realizing there was still plenty of time to do his work-- his projects weren’t going anywhere-- he agreed to take an hour in the rest area. “The second anything serious happens, wake me.”

The team promised and watched him go off.

With that done, Twilight suggested everyone else go off while she completed her own work, and the rangers agreed.

Rainbow headed for the skate-park, Rhymey and Fluttershy went on a lunch-date, Lightning went home to prepare his school lesson plans, and Buddy went back to the school to tend to his flower beds.

Meanwhile, Sunset decided to take a walk by herself in town, maybe find something to do with her earned cash.

As she walked along the park, she suddenly saw Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna sitting on a bench with two carriages by their sides.

“Hello…” Sunset called as she walked up to them.

“Shh…! No so loud…” Celestia said motioning inside the carriages.

Sunset came over and looked into the carriages at the sleeping babies. “Aww, they’re so adorable, for Earthlings.”

The sister snickered at the “Earthlings” remark.

Sunset told the ladies about Celesto and how he was just as exhausted. “I know how he feels…” said Celestia, “We’ll get the hang of it. I know we will.”

“If such is the case, I don’t think I will ever have kids myself.” Luna joked. The others snickered softly.

Suddenly, there was a very loud noise, sounding like a crash, and the ground shook!

The force of the shake and the noise woke the babies, and they cried very loud. Celestia and Luna comforting the frightened, cranky babies, but another crash happened followed by another shake.

Sunset didn’t like the feel of this at all.

“Yo… Sunset!” Rainbow called as she came skating down the road on her board. “I felt that way over at the skate-park. What’s going on?”

“I’ll bet its trouble. Let’s go check it out.” she then told the ladies to go somewhere safe. The ladies agreed and took the babies with them.

Sunset and Rainbow dashed off, out of the park and into town, and what they saw turned their blood cold. Several buildings were badly damaged; with large holes in their sides, broken glass and bit of debris lying about…

“Look at this mess!” cried Sunset.

“Let me get my hands on whoever did this!” growled Rainbow. That’s when the heard the sound of sinister laughing, followed by another loud crash as a huge iron ball busted through a brick wall and rolled into the street.

The ball then instantly unfolded to reveal a monster; with the large body of a wrecking ball, iron fists like boxer gloves. “Yo’ Basher’s in the house, and I’m gonna bring this house down, starting with you rangers.”

Sunset and Rainbow winced in anger, and Sunset contacted the rangers warning them of the trouble and where they were.

“So, who wants a Smash from Bash?” Basher joked, and he pounded his strong fists together, making them clang.

“It you who’s in for the bashing, bub!” sneered Rainbow. Sunset nodded in agreement, “It’s Morphin’ Time!”

“Starfleet Magic… Power On!!”

The girls were morphed, and ready for a fight.

“So that’s how it is, huh?” scoffed Basher, “Let’s go Lingos!”

A swarm of Lingos rose, and rushed the girls.

“Let’s take ‘em!” shouted Rainbow.

“Right!” agreed Sunset.

The Lingos put up all they could, but even against just two rangers they fell like dominoes…!

Sunset punched…

Rainbow kicked…

Then they each flipped a Lingo down, shooing the swarm away, but then Basher stomped his way over ready to rumble, and punched the girls hard making small explosions and sent the girls soaring backwards and into a wall.

“Whoa! That dude packs a punch!” cried Rainbow.

“You’re telling me.” agreed Sunset.

Basher laughed and clanged his fists, “Stronger than you thought, huh? Having thick armor will do that to you.”

Suddenly, the other four rangers, morphed, came leaping over him and joined their friends. “You two alright?” asked Buddy.

“We’re fine, considering…” replied Sunset.

“Sweet…! Now I can beat all six of you guys at once!” shouted Basher.

“Now that were all together, that won’t happen.” Said Sunset, and the rangers did their role call.

Sunset: “Evil’s Dread! Starfleet Red!”

Buddy Rose: “Let’s make the scene. Starfleet Green!”

Rainbow: “We’ll see things through. Starfleet Blue!”

Rhymey: “Though peace and Woe! Starfleet Yellow!”

Fluttershy: “Quick as a Wink! Starfleet Pink!”

Lightning: “Fightning all danger! Comet Ranger!”

And altogether they shouted “…POWER RANGERS… STARFLEET!!”

“Ooh, I’m so weak… from bash deprivation!” said Basher.

The rangers all rushed the creature together, but even all their combined attacks weren’t enough, as Basher just threw his huge gut out and bonked them all away. “Not good enough…” he teased to the rangers.

The rangers all struggled to get back up, and then Basher revealed his next trick, “Time for the old swing attack!” with that, he folded his arms legs and head into his solid body and magically levitated himself, and shot like a cannonball towards the rangers, hitting each of them so hard, big explosions went all over as each of them fell down like bowling pins, and Basher didn’t stop until he hit the wall of an apartment building, smashing a big hole in its side and making wads of rubble fall.

“He’s coming back!” cried Lightning.

“Down!” shouted Sunset, and all the rangers hit the ground as Basher zoomed right past them, and unfolded to his normal form. “Boom Baby…! You’re all as finished as a condemned condominium!

“This guy’s really annoying me!” snapped Buddy.

“Maybe we should try our weapons, or Able Boost?” Fluttershy suggested, but her friends disagreed, even Rhymey pointed out,

“That would all go very wrong,
He’s much too big and strong.”

“Big and Strong…?” cried Lightning “Rhymey, you’re a genius!”

“What did I say,
Tell me without delay!”

Lightning simply told the others “Stand back guys…” and he marched closer to the monster. “What, you think you handle me yourself?” Basher mocked, but he watched as Lightning activated his morpher…

“Gigantify…!

“Giant Mode… Ready!”

…And Lightning grew large!

Basher shrieked like a cartoon character. “EEEEK…!! Talk about fast sky scraping!”

Lightning then reached down and picked the monster up. To him he was about the size of a golf ball. “Speaking of scraping…!”

Lightning then began to bop, toss and kick Basher around like a little kick-sack, and of course because of the size differences, the little monster hadn’t a chance and suffered loads of damage.

Lightning then looked straight over his shoulder…

(Breaks Fourth Wall)

“Trust me, kids… don’t try this at home.”

(Unbroken)

“Fore!” Lightning shouted, and he flicked the creature out of his hand, sending him crashing to the ground, super hard making a large crater in the road.

The other rangers found this most amusing.

“Wow, he’s really getting kicked now.” said Rainbow. “Finish him off, Lightning!” Sunset called to him. “You got it…!” replied Lightning, but just as he was about to power up, he got shot at by magical blasts. “Hey!”

The rangers turned and saw, Keto. He blew the top his staff casually and sniggered, “Wouldn’t you rather pick on someone YOUR OWN size?

…FORTISSIMO!”

In almost no time, the monster had grown to Lightning’s height. “BOOYAH! Big Basher Bounces Back, Baby!”

“Oh, boy!” cried Lightning, and he was bashed hard by the creature and sent rolling along.

“Lightning!” cried Sunset.

Keto laughed and called up, “Their all yours, Basher. I’m outta here.” and he vanished and was gone.

“Guys, a little help would be nice!” cried Lightning, and he got bashed hard again and rolled along the ground.

Basher laughed as he glared at Lightning.

“Let’s go, guys!” cried Sunset, “Launch Star-Jets!”

“Zords, Combine!”

“Jet Star Megazord… Ready!”

Lightning got up, “Comet Striker… Armor Up!”

“Summon Armor!”

“Comet Striker… Ready!”

Both zords stood ready, but inside the megazord’s cockpit the computers gave off a warning. “What’s going on?” asked Sunset.

“We’re at only half power.” replied Buddy.

Lightning didn’t feel quite so good himself. “What is this?” he asked aloud.

The rangers alerted Twilight at the base, and she already did her computations. “The zords didn’t have enough to re-energize completely after the demolition job! I’m afraid you’ll have to make do with what you’ve got.”

Meanwhile, Spike and Krysta were trying their best to wake Celesto up like he told them too, but he was really out hard. Even when Spike shook him, licked behind his ear and even barked… not even Krysta giving him a small birdy peck worked.

“I’ve taken long naps before, but this is ridiculous.” said Spike.

Krysta then flew out of the rest area and back to Twilight, “It’s no use; we’re on our own for this one.”

Twilight was very concerned and feared for her friends, but there was still hope! “I’ve got to finish this new program and fast!”

She then got straight to work, typing as much as she could into the computer to finish whatever it was she was planning.

Basher pounded his fists, “It’s Bash Time!” and he rushed forth. The rangers saw no other choice but to try their best and the zords charged forth as well.

“Whoa! Yes!” Basher hollered as he bashed and punched the zords really hard making sparks fly, “Here comes the big one!” and he rammed right into Lightning and sent him crashing right into the megazord, and the two fell down.

“This isn’t working!” cried Sunset “Fighting him hand-to-hand is no good!”

“We have to keep on trying!” said Rainbow.

Lightning helped the megazord upright. “Come on, guys. We can do this!” he said. The megazord nodded in agreement. It drew out its sword, and Lightning extended his blades.

Basher only laughed, “Those little butter-knives you have can’t beat me.”

“We’ll see about that!” sneered Sunset.

The sword charged forth.

The megazord slashed, but Basher swerved and then punched hard. Then Lightning tried to attack from behind, hitting the monster, but hardly so much as even making him flinch. His armor was too strong!

The monster then kicked him hard, and as the megazord charged again he punched it twice in the chest, rocking the rangers about inside inside.

“This guy’s smashing us to pieces, and he’s hardly broken a sweat.” cried Buddy.

“We’ve got to hang on!” said Fluttershy.

“Here comes the big one!” Basher shouted, and her curled up into a ball, levitated himself, and bashed furiously into the zords many times over, finally knocking them down.

The megazord began to spark and flare in the severity of the damage it had taken, and the consoles were starting to short circuits and spark in the cockpit at the rangers.

Lightning’s armor was sparking as well, and flashing in warning that his power was about to run out. “Oh, no!” he groaned as he looked over at the megazord and the bad shape it was in.

Basher levitated in midair and laughed wickedly, “I told ya you were through! Prepare for the bashing of your lives!”

At the tower, Keto and the gang watched with great giddiness. “This is it!” Keto cried, “The rangers are going to be no more!”

“I hate to say it, but I’m actually impressed.” said Marla. Bronc felt the same way, but all he could say was, “When the rangers are nothing but a faded memory, I’ll share that feeling.”

At the base, Twilight was really starting to panic and sweating bullets.

“Come on, Twilight, hurry!” cried Krysta.

“I’ve almost got it!” wailed Twilight “There…! Got it…!” she then spoke to rangers, “Guys, listen, I’m sending you the new program.”

Both zords, damaged, but still barely functioning received the programing transmission. The five rangers viewed it all on the screens, while Lightning received the information through his mind like a computer himself.

“Check it out…!” said Rainbow.

“It’s incredible!” said Lightning.

Twilight instructed them, “You can now combine the Jet Star Megazord with the Comet’s Striker’s armor; do this and you can form the Ultra-Star Megazord!”

The rangers, not heating another minute, input the codes. “Everyone ready…?” Sunset asked. Her friends all gave her a thumb up, “Lighting, you…?”

“Let’s do this?” Lightning answered and gave her a thumb up.

“Ultra-Star Megazord… go!” cried Sunset.

At once, Lightning’s armor came off of him, and floated up into the air along with the Megazord.

“Zords Combine!”

-The arms of the Megazord detached allowing Lightning’s armor to become the new arms.
-Lightning’s leg armor fitted under the feet like thick soles, boosting the megazord’s height.

-Lightning’s torso armor fit on the front of the body, the lower area, and the back like exoskeletal armor.

-Fluttershy and Rhymey’s jets attached to the back like a winged rocket pack.

-Finally, Lightning’s helmet folded inside out creating a newer head that fit over the original one.

“Ultra-Star Megazord… Ready!”

“Whoa! What the…!” cried Basher.

The new zord stood tall and proud, it’s new armor shined in the sun.

“Wow, look at it!” Lightning said to himself.

The other rangers were impressed too. Not only had the transformation repaired some of the damages, but the power-levels were all back to full, and much higher than normally.

“Check it out!” exclaimed Rainbow.

“Awesome.” said Buddy.

“Alright… we’re back in the game!” said Sunset.

The megazord flexed its fists and looked ready to brawl.

Basher unfolded and glared it down. “So you got new armor, big deal!” he growled “I’ll smash it off of you piece-by-piece!” He began to rush forth.

“Firing jet thrust!” cried Fluttershy. At once, rockets fired form the back of the zord’s feet, thrusting the zord forth like being on fast skates, and aimed a powerful punch at the monster, actually damaging him.

“Hey! What the--! How is this possible.” groaned Basher.

The zord skid to a halt…

Rhymey was astonished as he checked the power levels…

“We hardly took damage from recoil,
The systems have hardly begun to boil!”

Twilight monitored from the base and was pleased the new program was working perfectly. “The armor has increased your attack and defense, and the rocket-power improves your speed. Keep going.”

“Got it, Twilight.” replied Sunset.

Basher was getting angry and he refused to give in, “Take this, and this, and some of this!” he shouted as he rammed numerous punched and kicks into the zord, but despite the show of sparks that flowed, the zord hardly flinched.

“Ha, you think you’re so tough! Well, here comes a big one!” he aimed a powerful punch at the head, but the zord blocked him with its left arm, and then punched him hard with the right, sending him flipping back over.

“How is this happening?!” he growled. He got up and saw the zord just standing there staring at him like it was being smug. “That’s it…Time to have a ball!” Basher sneered, and he folded up and charged straight at the zord full force.

“Too slow…!” snapped Rainbow, and she pulled on the controls, and the megzord rocketed to the left and out of the way causing Basher to miss. “Oh, yeah!” he thundered and he tried again, and again, and again, but the zord continued to evade him every time.

“Now I’m really steamed!” shouted Basher, and he thrust forth with everything he had.

“Watch out guys!” Lightning called, but the zord simply remained where it stood and held out its arms, actually halting Basher from going any further. “Hey! No fair!” Basher whined.

“Time for a taste of ultra-power!” said Buddy, “Fire lasers!”

The jets on the back, their noses opened to reveal two laser cannons that fired a blast of powerful energy, sending the monster hurling backwards.

Basher crashed on the ground and unfolded to normal. “I can’t believe this! This isn’t happening to me! I’m Big Basher! Big… Strong… Basher!”

“Yeah! We’ll you’re about to become small, weak and detained!” Sunset called as she and the others downloaded the data for the final attack. “Prepare for Star Blast Wave! Charging up…!”

The zord’s chest armor, arms and head all glowed brightly as pulsing flashes appeared.

“Energy Charge, Ready!”

“Whoa! Hey! You can’t do this to me!” cried Basher.

“Oh, yes the can…” hollered Lightning, “Do it, guys!”

With the energy systems charged, the rangers all shouted together, “STAR BLAST WAVE… FIRE!!” and at once… POW… the zord fired four major streams of energy combining it all into one big golden wave of power that flew straight at the monster, missing the buildings and other structures entirely.

Basher’s armor was no match for this as the wave blasted right at him, shocking and flaring him wildly. “I’VE JUST BEEN BASHED… BUT GOOD!!” he shouted before he exploded and was imprisoned then beamed inside.

The rangers cheered in the cockpit.

Lightning jumped for joy.

While back at the base, Twilight and the pets were hollering and shouting with glee… which actually woke Celesto from his sleep. “What’s going on?” he asked groggily.

The five rangers, their zord standing proud and tall, could safely declare “MONSTER CAPTURED! MISSION COMPLETE!!”

Back at the Tower, Keto was most devastated. “No! No!! How can this be?!” he whined, “I was close… so close!”

“But not close enough!” teased Marla.

“And now the rangers have another, more powerful zord to use against us; very pitiful, Keto.”

Keto shamefully fell to his knees, and the others walked off leaving him to sulk in humiliation.

Vulcan had already heard everything from his private lab and scoffed, “Worthless! He couldn’t even beat the rangers’ grandmothers!” Then he gazed at his creation in the darkness “As long as have you here, at least I’ll have a better assurance.”

When the rangers got back to base with their catch, all of them still felt a little sore from getting bashed so hard, but they were so excited about the new megazord and how it would serve them well.

“With that big bad boy, Vulcan doesn’t stand a chance now.” Rainbow said cockily.

“Oh, I wouldn’t say that entirely…” said Buddy “Much as I hate to say it, even Vulcan could be capable of finding ways to get at us. That’s why he doesn’t give up.”

The others all agreed, and promised to keep ever vigil for further attacks!

“Ahem!” Celesto said, catching everyone’s attention, and he looked pretty mad for having overslept so long.

Everyone felt nervous seeing the kind of mood he was in.

Twilight tried to apologize to him. “The pets tried to wake you up.”

The animals agreed and they tried to apologize to.

“It’s alright…” Celesto said. His calm reaction silenced everyone. “I’m actually more impressed than ever. You’ve all proven you really don’t always need me to be there and that you are capable of looking after yourselves in hard times.”

The rangers, realizing he was right, all exchanged looks of pride between one another. “I guess it’s a sign that we’ve all really grown as rangers, and fighters.”

“Even without you,
There’s still nothing we can’t do.” agreed Rhymey.

Celesto nodded, but of course that didn’t mean he was going to drop out, but it still pleased him nonetheless to see how well everyone was coming along.

Suddenly, his phone rang, “Hello…?”

His response was the loud sound of baby cries. The others could hear it as well. Then came the sound of Celestia’s voice, “Hear that?” she teased “Two little people are asking for daddy to come home.”

Her husband rolled his eyes, “Alright, I’m coming.” He said sweetly, and he hung up. “Excuse me…” he said to the team before departing.

The others couldn’t help but snigger softly.

Episode 22: Angles in the Outfield

Author's Note

Finally... I'm finished Teen Titan Idol, and I can work more on my fics

Episode 22: Angles in the Outfield

EPISODE TWENTY-TWO

One morning, Lightning was giving his History class back the results from a small test they had on World Wars. The answers were to be written in full explained definition.

“Many of these tests were very impressive, though some of you may be a tad disappointed.”

Sunset felt very nervous and twiddled her fingers, but Rainbow seemed very confident. “That test was a breeze.”

“How can you act so calm?” asked Sunset “History isn’t easy you know.”

“It’s just a whole bunch of dates, names and places. What could be simpler?”

Lightning handed Twilight back her test, she a perfect score. “Well done, Ms. Sparkle.” He commented. Then he came to the other two. “Ms. Shimmer, not bad, not bad at all.” he said handing her a C-Plus. Sunset sighed heavily in relief.

Then it came to Rainbow, “Ms. Dash, you on the other hand could use some improvement in your answers.” and she was handed a D-Minus. Rainbow couldn’t believe her eyes. “What?” she exclaimed softly.

She even compared her answers with Sunset’s paper, and while their answers seemed the same, Sunset’s answers were more definitive in contrast to Rainbow merely using simple and fewer words for her answers.

“Hey, at least you didn’t do the worst.” Sunset said motioning over at Nikki.

“No way…!” Nikki whined, “Minus Ten Percent?! How is that, like, even possible?”

“You spelled your name wrong… “Nik-ki-ki Tent.” Lightning said, making several students chuckle. Nikki felt outraged, but as she gazed at Lightning she couldn’t help but not stay mad at him, but rather fall into a lovey dopey daze, much to his annoyance.

The bell rang, and Lightning dismissed his class, but Rainbow sat still a-puzzled and shocked that she got such a low mark.

Twilight and Sunset, even Lightning himself seemed concerned. It was just that she didn’t do well on this test. Lately her grades had begun to slip, and she had been getting low scores on many of her tests, even the P.E coaches were growing concerned with her. While she was doing outstanding in P.E, good grades were important as well.

If she couldn’t bring her grades up, she feared she would most likely be kicked off her sporting teams.

“Attention, Attention please…” Vice Principal Luna announced on the intercom “Rainbow Dash, please report to the main office immediately.”

Rainbow gulped hard and begged softly to herself, “Please don’t be what I think it is!”

(Que Intro)

During Lunchbreak period, normally Rainbow jumped straight out to the field and began to kick her soccer-ball around, but instead she just sat on the bleachers with the ball by her side.

The other rangers weren’t about to let this slide. So they all approached her. “Rainbow Dash…?” Fluttershy said sweetly “Do you want to talk about it?”

Rainbow sighed, knowing her friends wouldn’t lay off about it unless she told.

“The Principal Cadance said that if I don’t starting brining my grades back up, not only will have to be laid off all the sports teams, but… I may not be able to graduate with you guys.”

There were plenty of shocked and concerned expressions then, you would believe. “We can’t graduate without you.” cried Buddy. “It goes against everything we all are as a team.”

“You think I didn’t feel the same.” said Rainbow “Ah! I’m so mad and frightened about it, I don’t think I can even kick the ball straight anymore.”

She picked up her ball, dropped it intending to kick it really far across the field, but ended up kicking it back into her own head.

“Ooh, that’s gotta hurt.” teased Spike, but everyone gave him a stern look telling him that he wasn’t helping.

Twilight sat next to Rainbow and asked, “How much studying do you actually do?”

“What do you mean? I study; I study as much as I can.”

“How much…?”

“Well, I guess a couple of hours.”

Twilight was no convinced. “Okay, I study for a bout fifteen minutes. I look up all the answers by the internet and then just put them on my tests.”

“No offense, Rainbow, but that seems kind of lazy.” said Sunset.

“Well, it’s not like I have all the time in the world.” protested Rainbow “Between schools, soccer practice, band practice, being a ranger, training, working at the base. I’m usually all wiped out at the end of the day, and I even forget what I studied.”

The others couldn’t argue with her there. Knowing her busy schedule, it was understandable that she’d slip up. Sadly, this excuse wouldn’t get her out of the possibility of being held back. “What am I going to do?” she cried.

“You just need to organize
All your studying, work and exercise.” said Rhymey.

Rainbow scoffed, “I have so much to do I can hardly TELL the time at times.” She rubbed her head at what she just said, “Okay, that one hurt.”

Rhymey thought it over,

“Well, if we can’t find any go-betweens.
Maybe we can some other means.”

Hearing him say “Go-Betweens” gave Twilight a great idea. “Rhymey, you’re a genius!” she cried, and before anyone could ask why she ran off telling everyone to meet her on the field after school.

“What do you think she’s got in mind?” Fluttershy wondered. Not one of the others could tell, not even Spike.

Meanwhile, Keto was outside the tower and held out his staff, “Here it comes…” he called out to someone. “Song of Embernova!”

The mugic was summoned and as the song played a barrage of fireballs were launched at a calculator-like monster. “Calculating angles and velocity…” he said as he hit his own keys, and the green screen on his face glowed with equations. Now able to see the fireballs, where they were coming from and how fast they were coming, it was easy for him to dodge them and bat more of them, sending them straight back at Keto.

“Whoa!” shouted Keto as he barely dodged his own attack. “Watch it, Calculus! We’re just practicing.”

Calculus scoffed “Even with this practice, I calculate the odds of victory approximately one-hundred twenty percent!”

“Really…” hissed Vulcan as he appeared before the two, “I like those odds. That’s why I’ve entrusted you to destroy the rangers, Calculus.”

“You can count me, sir.” said Calculus “My figures are never mistaken.”

“They had better not be.” sneered Vulcan, and he turned to face Keto “Because if he blows it, you’ll be minus a guarantee that I won’t roast you alive!”

Keto felt nervous, but assured him “We’ve been training all morning. If he says victory is assured, I believe him.”

“Very well then.” hissed Vulcan.

Later that day, after school as promised, Rainbow and the other rangers met up with Twilight in the soccer field. She had already got permission from Principal Cadance to use for her experiment.

Twilight had set the field up with various sporting obstacles; cones, hurdles, net-climbing, long jumping, and various others. Each one had different papers clipped onto them with bits of study notes, questions and basic answers. Even the soccer balls were marked with answers, questions and things…

“I thought maybe we could combine your studying and your sporting practice into two.” Twilight explained “Sort of multi-tasking. This way you can practice, and study for tests and assignments.”

Rainbow didn’t seem too keen on such an idea.

“Well, it wouldn’t hurt to try is.” said Sunset “After all; you do have to keep your eye on things while you practice.”

“And sports do have loads of math and memorization of patterns and things.” added Buddy.

Rainbow thought it over “Well, I guess that is true.” So she agreed to give it a try.

She started with simple lap racing, hurdle-jumping and running round the cones placed. Unlike most lap-racing, during each lap one of her friends would hand her a question card with a math problem, or a test question, and she was required to jump over the hurdle kick over the cone that had the correct answer clipped to it.

Of course, it wasn’t very easy to think and read the answers clearly while running at the same time. She ended up jumping over hurdles and knocking down cones with the wrong answers on them, and when she tried again and aimed for the correct answers her timing and speed were messed up because she couldn’t concentrate on what she was doing. She tripped over the hurdles and the cones, and she made terrible timing finishing her laps.

So the friends decided to try something easier: simple soccer shooting.

Each soccer-ball was marked with washable ink. Some had answers to math questions on them. Each ranger would call out a question to her, and she was to kick the right ball into the goal.

Then they would place multiple balls in a row with words making complete and definitive sentences to questions on the history test she flunked. She had quickly read the answers and then kick the respective balls into the goal.

Twilight even set the balls up at different angles to help her work on her geometry.

For a while it seemed to be working, but when it came time for her to take a much needed break. She was re-tested on her questions.

“Come on, you did this before…” said Fluttershy.

Rainbow thought hard looking like her head would explode, but in the end, “Ugh! This isn’t working. I’m too pooped out to think.”

The others all sighed in dismay, but they still didn’t want to give up on their friend. So they all decided to take her out to dinner, no doubt they quizzed her along the way.

“Come on, guys, this is actually starting to annoy me.” Rainbow said.

“It’s really for your own good.
You need to go along with this, you should.” said Rhymey.

Rainbow sighed, “Okay, ask me another question.”

“How about what are five rangers minus five rangers.” called a sinister voice. The rangers saw him, Calculus, and a swarm of Lingos by his side. “It’s nothing, and according to my calculations, that’s what you’ll be soon enough!”

Twilight noted the shape of the monster, a calculator; “Okay, normally I’m all for calculators, but this is crazy!” she muttered.

“Get someplace safe!” Sunset said to her. Heeding, Twilight scooped Spike up and slipped off into an alley.

The rangers all stood together and Sunset declared, “It’s Morphin Time!”

“Morphing Sequence, Ready!”

“STARFLEET MAGIC… POWER ON!!”

They all morphed and stood ready to brawl.

“Ha!” scoffed Calculus and he called to the Lingos “Let’s divide and conquer these pest!”

The Lingos charged, and the rangers rushed forth as well.

Even though Rainbow was still tired from her sporting studies, she still had plenty of energy to fight back. “Game time!” she hollered as she punched and kicked down the Lingo’s skillfully.

“Score one!

You’re out of there!

…Home-run!”

“Good rhymes, Rainbow.
Way to go.” Rhymey called to her.

Rainbow gave him a high thumb.

Calculus could see the Lingos weren’t fairing so well, as usual, “Try this!” he shouted, and his screen glowed brightly, unleashing several equations, which were actually laser beams, hitting the rangers hard and knocking them over.

“Cheap shot!” groaned Buddy.

“Let’s get him!” shouted Sunset.

Calculus snickered, “Calculating angles and speeds.” with his calculations, he was able to dodge the rangers coming at him and hit them with huge punches….

…Much to Twilight and Spike’s chagrin as they watched.

“Sorry, rangers,” mocked Calculus “I’ve done the math and it calculates victory is one-hundred percent! You may as well make it easy and surrender!”

“Never!” shouted Sunset “There’s five of us and only one of you. The odds are still in my favor!”

“Oh, you like addition? Well how about some multiplication…?” he tapped his big multiplication key and his screen fired several beams of light which produced several copies of himself evening the odds five-to-five. The only differences were they could not speak, and their screens were red in color.

“Looks like your math is a little off…” the real Calculus sneered, and he ordered his clones, “Attack!”

“Weapons ready!” shouted Sunset. All the rangers grabbed their weapons and each charged a monster, but much to their surprise, the clones were just as able to calculate the angles, strengths and other details of the rangers’ attacks as well.

Rainbow fired her cannon, but the clone simple fired back with its laser beams, and then shot her.

Buddy tried his whip, but the clone caught it and yanked him in close then kicked him back out again.

Sunset fired her stars from her scepter, and Rhymey swung his sword hard, but the creatures calculated every angle and managed to dodge and avoid the barrage and swings and knocked the rangers back with laser shots.

Even Fluttershy’s shield didn’t help defend her. She hid behind it as the real Calculus punched her hard and actually sent her sailing backwards.

“Fluttershy…!” Sunset cried as she and the others helped her up.

“I’m alright.” said Fluttershy, but Calculus laughed, “Say, who here can tell me how many monsters it takes to destroy this city?” and with that, he his multiplier again producing more and more clones of himself flooding the entire area with a small army.

“Ah, man! As if a few of these guys weren’t bad enough!” groaned Buddy “What do we do now?”

“We can’t fight them all, not while they have the advantage.” said Sunset.

“Guys…!” Twilight called motioning for them to follow her into the alley for an obvious retreat. Seeing it the best option for now, the rangers dashed over to the alley. The monsters didn’t even bother to follow them.

“Run all you like, rangers. It doesn’t matter.” hissed Calculus “With me and my clones, we’ll crush this city as easy as One-plus-One!”

He laughed wickedly.

The rangers had safely made it to their base, and they took off their helmets.

Celesto reviewed all the images recorded of the fight. “Needless to say, the way they can calculate and predict your every move gives them a serious advantage.” he said

“Serious is right.” said Buddy “They came at us like we were moving in slow motion. We couldn’t even get close.”

Rhymey sighed,

“If only we could have the chance
to find their weakness and then advance.”

“I think I’ve already got one.” Twilight said. “Even since I monitored the fight, I’ve been wondering and then it hit me; a calculator is still just a computer-like machine.”

She froze the images and zoomed in on Calculus’ face at his green screen.

“Well that’s fine and dandy, but how are we even going to get at it?” asked Sunset “He knows our every move; every angle, speed, distance…”

Suddenly, Rainbow had an idea “Unless… he doesn’t see it coming himself. Like a sudden change in strategy.”

The others caught onto her idea, and Rainbow explained her plan to them all.

“It just may work.” said Celesto “But you’ll need backup. Lightning was in a staff meeting, but I’m sure he can join you now. I’ll contact him at once.”

“In the meantime, we better get back out there before those clones destroy the city.” said Sunset.

She and the rangers quickly grabbed their helmets and left through the jump-tubes.

“Sure hope they know what they’re doing.” Spike murmured to himself.

“Of course they do.” snapped Krysta “When have they ever not?”

Spike preferred not to get into an argument.

The rangers rushed through the city, and met up with Lightning along the way. “I got the message. What’s happening?” he asked, but he could suddenly see for himself, the many Calculus clones all over the place, terrorizing the people and breaking everything in sight.

“We have to find the original and attack him.” said Sunset.

“There he is!” cried Buddy.

Up ahead was the real Calculus, as was identified by his green screen. “So, you’ve come back, have you?” he sneered.

“We sure have!” said Sunset “And we’re going to take you and your clones down!”

Calculus laughed “You must have some miscalculation going on in your brain. I have any army at my side… hello!”

Rather than wasting time arguing, the rangers rushed right into battle, and the clones charged at them.

Each ranger attacked two to three clones at once, which would prove to be very foolish to most. The clones were still able to calculate and determine their every move and were able to dodge every attack and strike the rangers back hard.

“This isn’t working!” cried Fluttershy.

“Stay strong!” shouted Sunset “Rainbow needs a chance to get an opening.”

Rainbow fought against two clones, very near to the original whom watched with glee, enjoying watching the rangers getting beat up. “Just think of all the profits I can get from this job.” he chuckled to himself.

Rainbow got shoved over again by the clones, knocking her several feet away from the original. “Well, I think this is a good enough angle now.

…Sonic Cannon!”

She fired her shots, and the clones avoided and repelled each and everyone one of them.

The Real Calculus saw this as a good chance for him to shoo her himself. “Time to calculate the final sum.” he joked as he prepared to fire, “Calculating angle and power level.”

Once he had a lock, his screen glowed and ready to fire.

“Now’s my chance…!” Rainbow said to herself, and she imagined the whole place like a big soccer game and the ball coming straight at her from behind at a steep angle.

Using her mad soccer skilled she leapt up high, back flipping over, and while upside down she fired her shot straight at the original’s screen before he could calculate what she was doing.

KAPOW!! The blast hit him hard and shattered his screen. “A’RGH! My screen! My beautiful screen! Look what you’ve done!” he cried and whined. He tried all his keys but nothing worked, and because he malfunctioning, all his clones vanished in shatters of number-shaped pixels.

“All right, Rainbow!” called Lightning.

“Way to go!” rhymed Rhymey

“Awesome, looks like the odds are on our side now.” said Sunset.

“I like those odds.” peeped Fluttershy.

The six rangers stood together. “Bring it together…” Sunset called.

“Weapons, Combine!”

“Star Slammer… Ready!”

“You think that toy of yours can beat me. I’m still twice as strong.”

“Fine!” snapped Lightning “Then let’s make it ten times; charging gauntlets.”

“Comet Gauntlets… Engage!”

“Uh, oh!” cried Calculus ah aw the rangers ready to stike.

“STAR SLAMMER… ULTRA-STRIKE!”

“Comet Trail… Fire!”

The Star Slammer was flung, and Lightning’s comet power hit it, charging it up even more, and the weapon struck the monster hard slamming him to the ground in a big explosion.

The rangers rejoiced…

…but the rejoice was about to be short lived, as Vulcan’s minions viewed everything on the monitors.

“Looks like our plan just hit a big zero.” Marla teased “We’ll see about that!” sneered Keto, and he marched straight up to the window, “FORTISSIMO!”

His mugic reached the island, and grew Calculus to giant size, and repaired his screen too. “Looks like I’ve been added up a few hundred times!” he called to the rangers below.

The rangers winced, and Sunset pressed on her morpher badge, “…Ultra-Star Megazord!”

“Zords Combine!”

“Ultra-Star Megazord… Ready!”

Calculous laughed, “I’ll divide you all up evenly, and then subtract you from existence!”

The megazord only lunged forth ready to fight, but the monster calculated the angle and dodged skillfully. “Missed me!” he taunted.

The Megazord struck again only to miss, and again, and again. “You should’ve studied your numbers more…” the monster teased, and fired his lasers at the megazord hard.

The Megazord’s armor was strong and it hardly got knocked back a few steps.

“This isn’t working! He’s still able to calculate us.” cried Buddy.

“We have to shatter his screen again!” said Sunset.

Rainbow looked out the viewport, and she caught a glimpse of what looked like someone giving her a giant thumb up. “…and I think I know how.” She suddenly said and rammed on the controls.

“What are you doing?” asked Fluttershy.

“Trust me!”

The megazord put up its fists.

“Still trying, huh? They never learn.” hissed Calculus. The megazord charged straight at him, and he already calculated the angle and velocity of which to counter… when suddenly… he got hit from behind by powerful beams. “Hey!” he thundered, and turned to see Giant Lightning. “Bet you didn’t see that coming.” he called.

The monster turned back just in time as the megazord gave him a huge sock to the face shattering his screen in a big explosion. The monster fell over and got up whining, “Oh, no… not again!”

“Looks like your numbers are way wrong now.” Rainbow gloated.

“Great going, guys.” said Sunset “Now let’s finish him! Charge up Star blast!”

“Energy Charge, Ready!”

“Star Blast-Wave… Fire!!”

POW! The strong energy wave fired, striking the monster hard. “I DIDN’T CALCULATE THIS!!” Calculus shouted, and he exploded and was imprisoned.

The rangers all rejoiced, and Sunset allowed Rainbow to call this one.

“Monster Captured! Mission Complete!”

Back at the tower, Keto was cornered by a very furious Vulcan. “He said that chances of victory were a-hundred percent!” Vulcan shouted “You were wrong, Keto!”

“Um… actually…” Keto whimpered “He only said “Victory” was calculated. He never actually said “whose” victory.”

Vulcan only roared and unleashed a wave of fire on him until Keto was all black, and he coughed out a little smoke ring.

Marla and Bronc could only gaze at him pitifully, while Keto felt more embarrassed than hurt. “I should’ve rechecked my figures.” he groaned.

The next day, the rangers came to school, meeting up with Twilight and Spike and saw Rainbow in the field trying the obstacle study course again, and she was doing much better than ever.

She didn’t trip, miss her marks, didn’t lose her timing, and she actually managed to nail every correct answer to each question.

“What’s happened to our friend?
Where did it start, where will it end?” asked Rhymey.

“She’s been going at it since daylight.” said Spike.

The rangers were shocked to hear that; Rainbow being up that early. “I couldn’t believe it myself, but she said she was so eager to try it again. She said she had a new strategy to balance her work and studies.”

The gang just watched and wondered what inspired Rainbow.

Rainbow was inspired by the las battle, and pretended that her every shot and correct answer was hitting the bad guys and helping to save her friends and the city; a great way to help her feel there was no room for many mistakes.

Rainbow kicked a soccer ball, and when the ball passed by, she was suddenly playing her guitar as she sang to a rock song she made up.

…eventually the others joined in as choir singers.

It all started in school, yah!
My poor grades were slippin’’ down hill
While it’d smart to study,
I had much to do be done still
Well, I tried to multi-task
Combinin’ my work and play
But it just wasn’t workin’
And things just went astray

Then a new thought came in mind,
I left woes al right behind
Here is what I had to find.

…I found another way!
(Say… hey… she found a better…)
…I found another way!
(Say… hey… she found a better…)
…I found another way!
(Say… hey… she found a better…)
Yeah, I found another way!

A guitar solo happened, and then played a montage of scenes, where Rainbow was able to continue on this course; studying her notes while engaging in her activities, while imagining it was a battle and the outcome depended on her correct answers and swiftness.

She was even doing it during the song as there were notes stuck onto her guitar.

When I find the right angle,
I kick the ball into the net
Think’ that the monster
Had that shot coming to it yet
When I learned about history,
I strum a note for each person and date
To complete a big sentence,
I sing I cool solo that’s great!

As the montages continued, she was seen passing her tests and assignments and boosting her grades up, so that she was no longer in danger.

Her friends were so happy that they hoisted her up, and she continued singing…

Now I’m studying just
No matter how it’ll go
The best thing that I’ve come to know

The song faded out, to in Lightning’s history class, and he passed her latest assignment with good marks. “Well done, Rainbow.” Lightning said to her, “Not a perfect score, but well done.”

“Ah, yeah…!” Rainbow cheered for joy like she was at a ball game, but then realized everyone looking at her, and Lightning giving her the sign to “Tone it down a little”

Her cheeks went red, “Sorry.”

Nikki and her friends scoffed and turned the other way, but the Lightning gave back their tests, and they were still very poor. “Ladies, if this keeps up, perhaps I’ll have to assign you tutors.” Lightning said and he hinted over at Rainbow and her friends… as a joke.

Naturally, neither side seemed to like the idea, and Lightning couldn’t help but chuckle.