Earth Strike
By: Adam Pearlman
The Rangers divided into several separate teams in an attempt to complete several missions. First the Time Force Rangers and Ninjor attempted to free Ninjor's home the Temple of Power from the forces of evil and were successful, but they were all abducted. Meanwhile the Morphin Rangers along with Veronica, Dulcea and the teenaged version of Dulcea headed for Phaedos and freed that from evil as well. Also Adam took the alternate version of the Galaxy Rangers to Miranoi to see if the Quasar Sabres existed and they could be used to create more Rangers. The attempt was successful, but not without problems along the way as Captain Mutiny turned up and using Maya attempted to take the power for his own. Fortunately he was unsuccessful and Maya was freed to join the new Galaxy Rangers and return to Earth and help free it from evil.
Earth a planet cloaked in darkness in evil. It is an evil that was brought upon by a child of the Earth itself. Now more of Earth's children attempt the impossible, to free it from evil. Several days have passed since the Morphin Rangers and the new Galaxy Rangers returned to Earth and several days since the Time Force Rangers and Ninjor went missing.
After much discussion the plans had been completed and approved and now all that remains is to implement them. Walking out of the makeshift briefing room I noticed Rachel sat with her back against the wall and her eyes half closed, but at my approach she opened her eyes and started to stand only for me to gently push her back to a sitting position.
"Rest, if you're going to be involved in this you'll need your strength" I said.
"I'm fine, I just didn't sleep that well last night" Rachel said although part of it was muffled by a yawn.
"Don't I know it, I felt you tossing and turning all night. Look I know you're going to disagree with me, but I really wish you'd go back home. We can do this without you" I said.
At that Rachel's expression turned to one of anger. "You don't think I can handle myself in a fight".
"I never said that. I just meant that your pregnant and you shouldn't have to put yourself and your unborn children at risk" I said calmly.
"I know what you meant and part of me agrees, but I couldn't stand it if I was at home and you were here and you died and I wasn't here. I guess that don't make much sense, but you chose me to be a Ranger and if I back away now I'll feel like I'm letting evil win in some way. This is my chance to help good in a big way and I don't want to miss it" Rachel answered.
"You're not going to be talked out of it are you?" I asked.
Looking at me Rachel replied. "Naah".
Smiling I embraced and kissed the girl who meant the world and more to me. There was a slight rustle of sound behind us and then a gentle coughing could be heard. Looking up we saw the alternate version of Kim stood there.
"Hey Kim what's up" Rachel asked.
"I've just finished the list if you want to move on it" Kim 2 said.
"List, what list?" Rachel asked slightly confused.
"I had Kim make a list of the Rangers who may be still alive and we could rescue. Jason of course is a no go, Dana is in the nexus and according to Carter she's catatonic, even if she were to rescue her I don't know if she'd be much help. Ashley said that Cassie, Tanya were in the same camp until they were separated a couple of days before we freed her. We know that the rest of the Astro's and Tommy are dead but I doubt that the Emperor had them killed and they maybe alive somewhere. Also Aisha and Zack have to be somewhere as well, so if we can find them and give them powers then the odds maybe in our favour" I explained.
"Instead of a gazillion against 100 to a gazillion against 101" Rachel replied.
"One person may make all the difference" Kim 2 said humorously.
"I notice you didn't put down Kat's name" I said.
"Yeah, even if we could rescue her, she's been his prisoner for years now and I doubt she is in any state to help us" Kim 2 said.
"Probably, but we have to try and find her anyway. Look work on a plan to rescue them, Rachel and I have to head back to our own universe, but we'll be back tomorrow" I said.
Kim nodded and with that both Rachel and I teleported first back to the Power Chamber of the other universe to talk to Zordon and then to our own universe to relax, perform and get on with our lives. After getting home I decided now was as a good time to broach this subject to Rachel.
"Whats on your mind Adam?" Rachel asked.
I opened and closed my mouth in amazement, as I hadn't even said a word. "How did you know something is the matter?" I asked.
"I can sense something is bothering you and it's written in your face" Rachel answered.
"You used your telepathy to know what I was thinking" I said raising my voice a little.
"I didn't read your mind, I just could feel your emotions. Adam I don't read your mind or anyone else's without their permission. So what's on your mind?" Rachel asked.
"With everything that has gone on and everything we're about to do, I've decided that its time to tell my parents about Dana. Also with Kat and Tommy wedding in less than two weeks they asked if I could look after Alex while they are on their honeymoon" I explained.
"So you're going to tell your parents about Alex as a well" Rachel asked.
"Yeah, I might as well reveal all of it, rather than just some of the truth" I said.
"If you want to do this, I support you completely" Rachel replied.
"Really even if this all comes out to be public knowledge and we get less privacy than before" I said with a hint of humour.
"The only way others will hear it from me is under the pain of torture" Rachel said adding a little humour to her own voice.
"And since I'm the only one who knows how to torture you, I don't think that's going to happen" I said with a hint of smile.
"Adam don't even think about doing it" Rachel said.
Crossing the gap between her and myself I reached over and started to tickle the girl who fell back on the bed closely followed by me as I continued my tickling onslaught, before gently kissing her and for the rest of the night words were not used.
The following morning we returned to Angel Grove and the Power Chamber and watched as the other Rangers prepare for the upcoming battle. As we did there was a loud curse and we looked up to see Dulcea stood in front of Trianna and a load of supplies now on the floor.
"You stupid girl, why don't you look where you're going?" Trianna snapped.
"It was an accident, I could see perfectly where I was going" Dulcea replied.
"Listen to me, you stupid little girl, the others may treat you with some respect, but as far as I'm concerned you are nothing but a child who should show a little respect to your elders and especially me" Trianna snarled.
"Oh yeah, well you can take your respect and shove it up..." Dulcea started to reply.
"Okay time out" I hastily said jumping into the middle of the conversation.
"Butt out White Ranger this is between me and the child" Trianna said.
"Listen lady, I don't know what your problem with Dulcea is or with any of us and frankly I don't care. But you're here and if your going to fight alongside us, then you can either pretend to get along or you can go pack up and head home" I said.
"Do not push me Human, your miserable species is the cause of most of the problems in this galaxy and I'll be damned if I let one of you tell me what to do" Trianna said.
"Oh it's like that is it. You think just because your such a superior race that you should be in charge and the we poor humans who aren't as advance should be following your lead. Well I got news for you, we might not be as advanced as you, but we've been done just fine without you around. And like I said you can either pack up or shut up, because if you talk down to anyone else I will kick you back to Triforia so fast your head will be spinning" I said.
"You wouldn't dare?" Trianna retorted.
"Just try me" I warned.
Trianna seemed about to start something and instead she grabbed the fallen items and walked off leaving the others to watch the confrontation in surprise and I said. "Don't you have things to be doing?" At that everyone turned and went back to what they were doing.
"You know she must be adopted, because Trey is not like that at all" Dulcea muttered.
"You noticed that. Look Dulcea, do yourself a favour and try and stay out of her way" I said.
"But she started it" Dulcea protested.
"And I'm finishing it. As much as I hate to admit it, we need her a damn sight more than she needs us. But once we've taken back the other Earth I'm going to talk to Trey and see if we can get rid of her or see what the hell her problem is" I said.
There was a rush of energy and then I was in Zordon's private chambers. With a hint of sarcasm I said. "You could have asked first".
"My apologies Adam, but this was quicker. My compliments on your handling the situation with Trianna" Zordon replied.
"I did what I could, but her attitude is getting worse. I mean when she first came here she was okay a little quiet and reserved, but then she started to act like she was superior to us all and its been getting on everyone's nerves not just Dulcea. I hate to say it but she seems to be a bit of a racist" I answered.
"I agree Adam. Her whole attitude to you and the rest of Rangers as well as that of Earth is one of contempt, the only one she seems to have any kind of respect for is the Gold Zeo Ranger" Zordon said.
"Do you think that is because the Gold Ranger was her brother before?" I asked.
"Possibly, but unless you ask her, we'll never know. For the moment I suggest continue to monitor her attitude and if it continues to deteriorate then I will contact Trey and perhaps he will be able to do something" Zordon answered.
"Perhaps, in the meantime we have to finish getting ready for this assault," I said.
"Adam I wish there were someway I could be there to guide you in this darkest hour" Zordon said.
"I know I wish you were as well. In that dimension I'm just flying by the seat of my pants and hoping I'm getting it right. Look the Night Rangers are here in case of attack and you can easily bring us back if we needed. So there is nothing left but to go and do this," I said.
In his tube Zordon nodded and though he truly wished this wouldn't happen he knew that someone would not return from this trip. In a flash he and Adam returned to the main Chamber. "Rangers both old and new it is time for you to go. I wish you luck and may the power protect you always".
"Everyone ready, then let's do this" I said.
The others nodded and teleporting out with supplies and equipment we reappeared in the headquarters of the rebels and stopped in amazement.
"How did we ended up in the Power Chamber?" Kim asked.
"Welcome back, it's the original Power Chamber, the one from when we were Zeo Rangers. Billy told me about it still existing in your world, so I figured it would still be here in ours and with a little bit of luck, here it is" Chris 2 said.
"Well it certainly makes a better base than just a pile of rocks" Rachel said.
"Yeah, less dusty. And we can keep an eye on troop movements and stuff like that. Also we can locate our missing friends, instead of just guessing where they are," Kim 2 said.
"All good news. So have you got a lock on the others?" Tommy asked.
"We have and we've also got the location of the Time Force Rangers and Ninjor" Rocky 2 said.
"So what's the plan? We gonna split up and round up the strays" Dulcea said.
A few of the people nearby chuckled at Dulcea's comment as it wasn't the words, but that she sounded like something out of a western.
"Dulcea I think you've been watching too much television" Kat said.
"Don't know what you mean pardner" Dulcea said lightly.
"Anyway back to normal, we split up and rescue the missing Rangers and the Time Force Rangers as well. Zeo Rangers that will be your job, go to wherever the Time Force and Ninjor are and free them. Astro Rangers you'll locate Cassie and Tanya if they are still together. TJ and Ashley you'll go as well, if they see a couple of familiar faces it might help. Morphin Rangers you'll go after Zack and Aisha. The rest of us will stay here and prepare for our main attack," I said.
"Are you going to come with the Zeo's?" Tommy asked.
"Yeah, I don't think I'm really needed here," I said.
"When do we go?" Emily asked.
"As soon as we're ready?" I answered.
With that the teams split up and prepared to go on their rescue missions. Before leaving Kim softly kissed Rocky and Rachel did the same to Adam as the two girls joined their friends and morphed and teleported into battle.
"You okay Rocko?" I asked.
"Yeah, its weird for so long I've gone into battle alongside Kim even though we've been on different teams, but now when she goes off on her own I get really worried" Rocky answered.
"It's called being in love, I always feel the same way when it comes to Rachel. But its weird even though we're not together she's still with me. I guess its because she's telepathic and we're in tune with each other that we feel each others presence" I said.
"Guys you ready to go?" Tommy said.
"Yeah, let's go kick some butt" Rocky said.
"It's Morphing Time" I shouted.
With that the ten Zeo Rangers morphed and teleported away. The teleport took slightly longer than normal as we were travelling across the galaxy. In ten flashes we appeared outside the walls of a prison.
"Friendly looking place" Tanya said.
"Well looks are deceiving, it could be really nice" Karone said.
"Do you really believe that?" Rocky asked sarcastically.
"No, but if I say it enough times I might start believing it" Karone quickly replied.
"Enough talk, its time to act. Let's find the way in," I said.
Nodding we quickly took a look around. Meanwhile over the remains of Angel Grove the Astro Rangers used their Galaxy Gliders to approach the slave compound.
"Everything looks fine, no sign we've been detected" Zhane said confidently.
Five seconds later the shooting started and Zhane was knocked off of his Glider to land in a heap on the floor. Bringing there own Gliders down Bradley turned to Cassie and said. "I guess you owe me ten bucks".
"What are you two up to?" Andros asked.
"We had a little bet going that someone would say everything was fine and then we'd get shot at. I said it would be about half a minute and Brad said less than ten seconds after someone said it and I guess he won" Cassie explained.
"Honestly is this really a time to be gambling?" TJ 2 asked.
"If not now when" Brad replied.
"I'm good to go, I just got the breath knocked out of me" Zhane said as he struggled back to his feet.
"Okay Ashley you've been here before, were do we go?" Carlos asked.
"The front door is too heavily guarded, but there is a back entrance, that we can sneak in. I don't think they'll be guarding probably won't even think anyone is going to try going in there" Ashley 2 said.
"Okay, show us where it is?" Ashley said.
Ashley 2 nodded and closely following her, the Astro Rangers walked around the base undetected and approached Ashley's alternate entrance.
"Your entrance is a laundry chute" TJ asked in surprise.
"Yes, its big enough for us all to fit in one at a time and the guards won't even realise we're there" Ashley 2 said.
"Lets do it, I mean its better than fighting our way in" Bradley said.
Nodding, Andros indicated for Ashley to start climbing and then in single file the Astro Rangers climbed into the laundry chute.
Meanwhile the Morphin Rangers had decided not to go for the silent approach and instead just attacked.
"Oh, lets just knock on the door and ask if they're there. Jason I love you but sometimes I think you have rocks for a brain" Emily shouted.
"Love you too" Jason shouted back as he defended himself from a couple of Cogs.
Meanwhile Rachel was stood back to back with the Pink Ranger fighting off Cogs and Piranhatrons. "You don't have to look after me you know I can take care of myself," Rachel said.
"I know you can, but you're still learning to fight and Rangers look out for each other" Kim answered.
"You mean Adam didn't ask you to watch out for me?" Rachel said.
Kim didn't answer and Rachel felt a little anger towards her fiancée at his over-protectiveness towards her and he wasn't even there.
The fight continued for many minutes as the Rangers soon became overwhelmed.
"Guys this is getting out of hand and we're only delaying the inevitable" Trini shouted.
"Yeah, if we don't hurry we're going to end up in body bags" Zack agreed.
"Billy tell me you have Zack and Aisha located, I mean the other versions" Jason shouted.
"I've got them located" Billy replied.
"Take Kim and Rachel and get them out of there and then we can go" Jason shouted.
"Billy nodded and closely followed by Kim and Rachel the three headed for Zack and Aisha position. They didn't have far to go and they soon came to a row of cells.
"Okay Billy which one are they in?" Rachel asked.
Before Billy could reply Kim shouted out. "Zack, Aisha are you here?"
That was really subtle Kim" Billy muttered as several Torachian Warriors turned round the corner and attacked.
Then there was a shout from a familiar voice. "Kimberly is that you?" the girl asked.
"Yes, it is me. Aisha are you okay?" Kim asked.
"I'm okay and so is Zack" Aisha 2 replied.
"Stand back from the door" Billy shouted.
With that his bladeblaster appeared in his hand and with several well placed shots the door collapsed in on itself revealing two battered but alive former Rangers. The relief at seeing two friends was mixed in with a lot of confusion.
"Billy, bro. is that you?" Zack 2 asked.
"It's a long story, but I'm not the Billy you know and this isn't the Kim you know" Billy tried to explain.
"To cut that long story short, we're from another dimension we came here to help free it from the Emperor's control" Rachel butted in and said.
"When I saw the Silver Ranger outfit I thought it might be the Emperor playing some sick joke, but you are definitely not the Emperor" Zack 2 said.
"Thanks for the compliment I think. The name is Rachel and can we get out of here before this whole place decides to come down around us when it blows up" Rachel asked.
"What do you mean blow up?" Kim asked.
"I just heard the commander of this building order the self-destruct" Rachel answered.
"Oh, how can you have heard that?" Aisha 2 asked.
"I have telepathic abilities and I was just using them" Rachel answered.
"We'll answer all your questions later. Jason we've found them teleport out of here and back to base" Billy shouted into his communicator.
There was a brief acknowledgement from Jason and then Kim and Billy grabbed Zack and Aisha and along with Rachel teleported away. Minutes later the entire group appeared in the Power Chamber.
There were smiles of relief from the Rangers gathered. "Zack, Aisha you're okay," Kim 2 shouted.
Seeing their friends Zack and Aisha felt let out sounds of relief as they realised they were free. "I can't believe it. We're free, but how did we get here and where is here?" Aisha 2 asked.
"This is the Power Chamber it was our headquarters when we were Zeo Rangers. It was replaced by an updated version that was destroyed by Divatox, but this one was still here and we found a way to reactivate it" Chris 2 explained.
"That explains the where, but who are they if you're stood in front of me Kim" Zack 2 asked.
"As we explained we're alternate versions of your friends" Jason said.
"How did you get involved in this then?" Aisha 2 asked.
"The Emperor began attacking our universes and when we freed Carter from Devastator we agreed to join his mission to free his universe" Rachel explained.
"Well thank you for freeing us" Zack 2 said.
"Hannah has there been any word from Adam" Rachel asked.
"None, but that's not a bad thing, they're probably keeping quiet to avoid detection" Hannah answered.
"Adam, you mean the Emperor?" Aisha 2 asked.
"He's from my universe he's not the Emperor, he's the White Ranger" Rachel answered harshly.
"Okay, got it. Good Adam running around and an evil Adam calling himself the Emperor also around also other versions of our friends running around, I think I have a headache" Zack 2 said.
"So what can we do to help?" Aisha 2 asked.
"Not much until the Zeo Rangers get back with Ninjor and the Time Force Rangers" Jason replied.
"Oh the Time Force Rangers... Who?" Zack 2 asked.
At that Jason laughed and proceeded to explain what was going on. Meanwhile the Astro Rangers having followed the alternate Ashley into the laundry chute were just climbing out when in came a monster carrying several bags and muttering to himself. "Flaming monsters, making mess, why I ought to...Rangers in the palace".
"Err hi Elgar, we're here to pick up your dirty laundry" Ashley said.
"Okay here it is, when is it going to be ready?" Elgar asked.
"Give it a couple of days and we'll bring it back" Cassie answered.
The monster nodded and dropping the laundry disappeared out of the room. "Boy he sure don't get any smarter does he" Carlos said.
"Let's go before he realises what is going on" Andros said trying not to laugh.
Following Andros out the Astro Rangers headed in the indicated direction of the cells coming around the corner Andros came to an abrupt halt. Looking up the rest of the group saw the reason for him stopping.
"Oh man we're kind of outnumbered here" TJ said.
"Outnumbered or not we have a mission to complete" Alison said.
"I'd like to be alive to complete it, if you don't mind" Zhane muttered.
"Alison is right, we have to fight. Ashley you and TJ are familiar with the compound so you go with our TJ and Ashley and free Cassie and Tanya. Once you do contact us and we'll teleport out of here," Andros said.
"With nods the four left the remaining Rangers to face off against the enemy. Meanwhile in an unspecified location the Zeo Rangers were also facing an uphill struggle against a more heavily numbered foe.
"Did I ever tell you that this is so much fun?" Rocky yelled.
Once or twice, maybe three times," I said sarcastically.
"Will you two comedians stopping joking and start hitting" Karone said interrupting.
"Now look what you've done, you've upset Karone" Rocky replied.
"Me!!! You're the one joking around, instead of concentrating on fighting," I said. As I spoke I struck out and with each punch nailed a Torachian Warrior or a Cog. "Now remember we have to behave ourselves and not prove we're totally barbaric in front of the Triforian" I said sarcastically.
Even though I couldn't see her face under the helmet I could tell there was an angry glare directed at me. "Okay guys its time to do what I said. "Black, Gold, Silver and Purple with me. The rest of you keep fighting, we'll be back," I said.
"Don't take too long" Rocky shouted.
"Why are you going to get lonely without me?" I shouted back.
"Nah, I just want someone whom I can make fun of instead of Chris" Rocky yelled.
"Gee thanks" Chris said.
"Rocky you're one of kind" I said.
"Don't I know it" Rocky said.
Leaving behind the remaining Rangers I followed with my small group towards the location of the Time Force Rangers when there was a burst of energy and before us appeared Darkonda and Devastator.
"Oh great it's the two stooges. What do you want?" Karone muttered.
"What else? But your destruction and the destruction of all that is good" Darkonda said.
"Gee you must have a fun packed life. What to do today, oh I know I'll try and take over the world" Skull said mockingly.
"You dare try and mock us" Devastator snarled.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but he didn't just try and mock you, he actually did. Now you want to get out of the way or do we have to go through you and I hope you choose option two," I said.
"Prepare to die Rangers" Darkonda said.
"We so don't have time for this. It's time for a Gold Rush" Bulk shouted.
"Silver Strike now" Trianna shouted.
Using their special attacks the Gold and Silver Rangers charged at the two monsters and in a burst of energy Darkonda fell and exploded while Devastator fell to one knee.
"A well played move, we shall meet again" Devastator spat out.
"Does this guy never stick around" Skull said.
"Obviously not, but at least Darkonda is gone" Bulk said.
"I doubt it, he probably has a few more lives and we'll see him again" Karone said.
"No time to chat, lets get our job done and get out of here. Before anything else happens," I said.
Falling into line behind me we approached the cell where we had detected the Time Force Rangers.
"Wes, Jen are you there?" I whispered.
"Adam is that you?" Wes shouted.
"Stand back from the door" I replied.
Bring out my laser pistol I shattered the door into a million pieces and looking inside I found the five Time Force Rangers and Ninjor looking rather worse for wear, but alive.
"Man am I glad to see you guys, I thought we were going to be stuck here forever" Katie said.
"Are you guys okay?" Karone asked.
"Apart from the torture we're okay?" Jen said trying to muster a smile.
"That's good to know. So how about we get out of here" Skull said.
"I'd say we're ready. Tommy this is Adam we've got what we came for, time to go" I said into my communicator.
There was an acknowledgement and then nodding to the others we teleported ourselves away from this place. The sixteen of us reappeared minutes later in the Zeo Chamber and we were greeted by a group of relieved people.
"Man am I glad to see you guys," Jason said.
"You guys made it back safe and sound" I replied.
"All present and correct, but Ashley was hurt" Jason said.
"Which Ashley?" I asked.
"This universes version, she just went berserk and tore into a group of monsters and one of them stabbed her" Jason answered.
"Is she going to be okay?" Kat asked.
"The wound was deep but clean. She'll be okay in a few weeks. It does mean she is out of the fight" Jason replied.
Even as I listened to Jason I was mentally taking a headcount of the assembled Rangers and then I realised whom was missing.
"Where are they?" I asked.
"Who?" Kim 2 replied innocently.
"You know who I mean, the Lightspeed Rangers and mean both sets of them" I replied.
"They went into the nexus to rescue Dana from the castle" Justin hastily said.
"They went minutes after the rest of you left" Jo said.
"Whose idea was this? Come on tell me now or do I have to guess" I said angrily.
"Adam please get a grip, I think you already know who had the idea and we couldn't have stopped her if we'd tried. She's too much like her brother and you know it" Hannah said.
"I do not go running off at a moments notice doing extremely crazy and suicidal things" I protested.
At that there were several looks from other Rangers and I blushed and managed to look suitably embarrassed. "Okay, but I only did crazy things not suicidal".
"Good point, but you did have a knack of getting into situations that were out of your depth" Kim said.
Before I could reply there was the sound of teleportation and the two sets of Lightspeed Rangers appeared inside the Zeo Chamber with one extra.
"Dana!" I said relief evident.
"You weren't worried were you" Dana said.
"Of course not, did you do what you set out to do?" I asked.
"We did, but she is still catatonic, so I doubt she's going to be any good" Dana replied.
"I can help with that" Rachel said quietly.
"What do you mean?" Cassie 2 demanded.
"I have telepathic abilities and I can use them to help Dana" Rachel answered.
"Rachel its too dangerous, if Dana has defences in her mind set up to protect her from the outside world and they might not let you in and even if they did you get past them you might not be able to help her. She maybe too far gone" Dulcea said.
"If she can help her then she should. But who are you anywhere?" Tanya 2 asked.
"I'm her but from the other universe" Dulcea answered.
"Dulcea is right, Rachel you'd be putting yourself at incredible risk and you have responsibilities" I said protesting.
"Adam see this it's my resolve face. I'm going to attempt this, I promise if I run into trouble I will back out and stop but I have to try" Rachel said.
"I know, I just don't want to lose you" I said softly.
"You won't if there is the slightest hint of trouble I'll break the link, but I have to try" Rachel replied softly.
Nodding I stepped away even as Rachel stepped in front of Dana. Rachel closed her eyes and then she let the world around her fall away. Probing gently at Dana's defences Rachel suddenly found herself struggling to pass the barriers and she could feel Dana struggling against her.
"'Dana I'm a friend, let me help" Rachel said.
At first there was a no response and then in a weak voice Dana spoke. "'Go away'".
"'No I'm here to help'" Rachel said.
"'Go away'" This time it was more forceful and Rachel felt herself being pushed back.
"'I'm not going away, I'm here to rescue you from this prison'" Rachel argued.
"'IF you stay you'll be trapped as well. I can't control my mind anymore'" Dana protested.
"'Look I can help tell me how and I will" Rachel asked.
"You can't help my own mind has turned on me. Ever since Carter became that thing and did what he did to me I've been trapped in a body that won't respond to anything I attempt to do'" Dana explained.
"Perhaps your trapped because your scared of facing the world again'" Rachel said.
"You bet I'm scared, after all that's been done to this world and what was done to me I don't want to live in this world'" Dana screamed.
"Then you've let Devastator and the Emperor win. You can't give up, you have to fight" Rachel replied.
"I tried fighting and failed its too hard" Dana answered.
"Of course it's hard, but that's what fighting is all about. You have to fight to survive, but you don't have to fight alone anymore I can help" Rachel stated.
"Its too late it's here" Dana screamed.
Rachel turned and gasped in horror at what Dana was indicating. The shape that approached them was just simply a black form and it was approaching the two girls.
"What the hell is it?" Rachel asked.
"It's my darkside, all the pain and suffering of the last few years manifested in form and in control. Leave before it" Dana started to say.
Dana's words were lost as the form grabbed Rachel and started to pull her toward itself and then it spoke. "So what do we have another tasty morsel of fear for me to chew on"?
"Let go of me now" Rachel demanded.
"Did the morsel speak?" the shape snarled.
Then the form grabbed Rachel's arms and started to pull at them and though this was not her real body in the outside world the effect were felt as she screamed out loud and blood appeared from her mouth.
Out of fear and concern Adam called out. "What's going on?"
"I think that Rachel must be under attack on the psychic plane and its effects are manifesting here" Billy replied.
"In English" Jon asked.
"Whatever happens to Rachel while she is in Dana's mind happens to her body. So if she's killed while in Dana's mind" Trini started to explain.
"She dies as well. Rachel I don't know if you can hear me, but you have to get out of there now before it's too late" I shouted at her body not knowing if she could even hear me.
Back inside Dana's mind Rachel still struggled in the grip of the creature.
"How does that feel, to know death is almost here" the shape said.
"Leave her alone" Dana shouted.
The form dropped Rachel to the floor and turned to face her. "What is this have you found a spark of courage".
"I've found more, I don't know how but she showed me a world where I'm a hero, where I have a family all because of differences in our worlds and I want that. You only exist because I let you, all you are the fears and doubt I've always had. You are only here because I chose to let you be and now I chose that you leave" Dana 2 shouted.
There was a scream from the shape and then it disappeared leaving the two girls alone.
"You did it, you faced your fears and won" Rachel said.
"I can't believe it, you were the help when you gave me those images" Dana 2 answered.
"Perhaps, but you were the one who faced it down, I just provided the incentive" Rachel replied.
"So how do we get out of here?" Dana 2 asked.
"Take my hand and I can lead us out of here" Rachel replied.
Dana nodded and then in a flash of light the two returned to reality. With a start Rachel sat up and I quickly gathered her into my arms. Nearby Dana 2 took her first moves in almost two years. Then she saw Carter and at first she tried to move away only to find her limbs wouldn't work.
"Dana it's me not Devastator he's gone now and I'm me again. I can't tell you how sorry I am for what he did to you. If I could change history I would make amends" Carter 2 said.
"Don't try and move you haven't used your muscles in a long time and you need to get used to being aware again" Dana said.
The other Dana looked startled as she saw her counterpart and then looked on as Dana placed a morpher on her wrist and there was a flash of pink. "This should aid with your recovery it's a power morpher" Dana added.
Even as Dana was talking to her counterpart I was talking to Rachel. "I thought I was going to lose you. When I saw the blood I freaked out".
"Hey I'm too tough to go down so easily you should know that by now. I just need to rest" Rachel replied.
"Tough and stubborn and probably stupid as well" I remarked.
At that Rachel lightly punched me on the arm and I replied. "Well it was stupid for you to take such a risk like that".
"I don't want to talk about it, just hold me" Rachel said softly.
Meanwhile Jason and Tommy were discussing what to do next. "So what now?" Jason asked.
"Now we do what we intended to do" I said standing up.
"What's that?" Lucas asked.
"Ninjor you can create power coins at the Temple now and then we can give them to new Rangers" I said.
"Indeed, but these powers will be given to those who can wield the power of Ninja or Ninjetti" Ninjor said.
"Then it has to be Kim, Chris, Rocky and Aisha. They can choose two others to be the White and Blue Rangers. Meanwhile Cassie, Trini, Zack and Tanya can take up the powers they've vacated" I suggested.
"It's a workable plan" Kim 2 said.
With a twist of their wrists the three Zeo Rangers removed the zeonisers and let the power of the Zeo Crystal leave them. Tanya took up her old Yellow Zeo powers and Zack took the Green Zeo Crystal and Trini chose the Pink Zeo Powers. Meanwhile Cassie chose instead to retake her Pink Astro powers and while the teams weren't complete they were now more powerful.
Kim and the four soon to be Morphin Rangers again conferred for a while and then they chose two people to join them on their quest. Ninjor and Dulcea stood before them and the two smiled and Ninjor said. "These two are worthy choices and their hearts noble and pure. Rangers we will return soon".
Then in a burst of energy the eight departed watching them go Skull turned to Bulk and said. "Can you believe it we're? I mean they're going to be Rangers".
"I can't believe it, I mean I still can't believe that we're Rangers" Bulk replied with a laugh.
"I can't think of two better people to be Rangers. You've proved that you're worthy Rangers and I have no doubt that they will be as well," Dulcea said.
At that Skull jumped a little having not realised she was there. "Do you mind not sneaking up on people like that".
"Sorry a bad habit, but the two of you have noble hearts and but for the grace of god and fate you could have been them" Dulcea said.
"Meaning we should be grateful for this opportunity" Bulk asked.
Something like that" Dulcea said with a smile.
"So when do we attack" Wes asked.
"Soon, when they return from getting their power coins we'll have a bit more power and then we take back your world. In the meantime everyone should rest and prepare themselves for what is to come" I said.
Everyone nodded and broke off into small groups. Dana having now started to recover from her catatonic state was enduring a medical work up from her counterpart, I meanwhile was arguing with Rachel who after much insistence on my part comprised with me and agreed to at least lie down for a few hours. Even as I left her to sleep I stepped back into the main area and realised that several pairs of eyes were watching me. I realised almost immediately that it was the most recently rescued Rangers of this universe and I moved towards them. At first Cassie took several steps back as did Tanya.
"Guys I don't bite" I said mustering humour in my voice.
"I'm sorry its just you're so much like him. The way you talk and look" Cassie 2 tried to explain.
"I may look and sound like him, but I'm not him. I didn't have the same experiences as him and I still fight for good," I said.
"I know they've all told us that, but its difficult seeing you this way and then remembering that our Adam was like you once and the way he is now" Tanya 2 explained.
"I do understand, for me it's a little weird as well I mean you have people here who are my friends back home and here they're friendly to me if a little cautious around me. I think some of them still feel like this may be a game of the Emperor's," I said.
"It's like what I said to the Silver Ranger when she appeared. I'd thought that this was a game of the Emperor's to get our hopes of freedom up and then send them crashing down again" Zack 2 said.
"That were the Emperor and I are different, I wouldn't think of pulling something like that" I said.
"I guess it's just difficult, I mean everything we've been through since 1998 has really changed us" Tanya 2 said.
"That's the thing about events they change you in ways you can't imagine. I should know I died a few months ago at the hands of the Emperor," I said.
"Really you died, then are you like a zombie?" Cassie 2 asked.
"No, I'm not a zombie. I died and was gone for a month and I got the chance to go back and save my friends for one hour. When the hour was up I was told that I could come back for good if someone would give their own life for mine. In the end after everyone had offered the spirits revealed that it was all a test and that I could back without anyone giving their life my own" I explained.
"Is it weird being alive again?" Aisha 2 asked.
"A little, but nothing has really changed I'm still a Ranger and there is still evil around and I have to stop it" I said.
I finished there and said my good-byes and left them to talk and get reacquainted with their friends. Leaving them I moved towards the Morphin Rangers I had fought with.
"Adam what's up?" Zack asked.
"Does something have to be up, that I want to come and talk with my oldest Ranger friends?" I asked.
"Yes" Zack replied.
At that Zack and Jason began to chuckle and Trini and Kim smiled.
"Seriously though, I just wanted to spend a little with my friends. I just have the feeling that this battle isn't going to be without casualties and I didn't want something to happen without things been said," I said.
"I think we all feel that way. Everyone is talking with their friends saying good-byes and things that should have been said" Trini answered.
"Well in case I don't get the chance to say this to you. I just want to say that although at first I thought it was an accident me coming into your lives and now I know different" I started to say.
"If this is that you hate the fact that this happened to you then" Jason interrupted.
Laughing I replied. "It isn't, I just wanted to say that whether by accident or on purpose I wouldn't have changed any of it for the world and that I'm proud to call you my friends".
"Adam if that was your way of saying you love us all, then on a scale of 1 to 10 it was pretty bad, but I think we'll forgive you since your only a man" Kim said.
"Men can express our feelings perfectly clearly" Billy argued.
"Then why don't you" Cassie said as she joined us.
"Well, we just don't like to. Look Cassie I would like to talk to you in private" Billy suddenly stammered.
Cassie nodded and she followed the Blue Ranger away from the rest of us and we all shared looks.
"Wonder what they are talking about?" Jason asked.
"Ten to 1 that Billy is asking Cassie to marry him" I said.
"How do you know that?" Zack asked.
"Billy loves Cassie, he has done since he first came to Earth as the Phantom Ranger and the fact that he asked me how I proposed to Rachel was a dead give-away" I said.
"I'd guess you're right here they come" Kim said.
Turning we saw the two walk towards us and both were smiling.
"Guys I've got an announcement. Cassie and I have decided to get engaged" Billy said.
"I knew I should have made a bet about this. Congratulations man a long time in coming," I said knowing that I was grinning.
There were congratulations from the other Morphin Rangers and as Cassie told the Astro's the congratulations continued. I was just about to speak when I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned to see Kat with a concerned frown on her face.
"What's the matter Kat?" I asked.
"Nothing really, I guess I'm worried what will happen to Alex if something happens to me, but really I want to know did you talk to Rachel about looking after her while Tommy and I go on our honeymoon" She asked.
"First off she'll be fine, your parents love her very much. Secondly I did talk to Rachel and she's okay with it. But I decided I really should tell my parents about her and I was going to do so before we came here but I changed my mind" I said.
"Why?" Kat asked.
"I realised I couldn't tell them about Alex or Dana, because it wouldn't be fair to them. I mean if Dana were to be killed here then I would have told them about someone just in time for me to then tell them that they were dead and that isn't fair. Providing we survive this I'll tell them everything," I said.
"How do you think they'll take it?" Kat asked.
"Well the Dana being my twin sister will be easy to take they know she went to another universe, it's the being five years younger than she should be that will be a bit hard to explain. And I think the fact that I have a daughter may not go down to well" I said.
"Look on the bright side you can always teleport out if they get pissed off" Kat said.
"Kat that isn't funny or helpful" I said.
"I know, but I couldn't resist" Kat said as she walked away.
In the nexus Devastator reported to his master. "So unfortunately all of the captive Rangers from both universe's are free".
In the shadows the Emperor spoke. "It doesn't matter, while they may have regained the Zeo Crystal and Astro powers I still possess their energies and I'm still more powerful than they are. There can be forty Rangers or four hundred and I will still crush them all".
"Of course, when do we attack" Devastator said.
Stepping out of the darkness the scarred and battered Emperor replied. "Gather the forces I will lead them and we attack now".
Back inside the Power Chamber the Rangers still relaxed and prepared for the battle not realising that the fight was coming to them. Meanwhile I'd spoken with Carter about their journey to rescue Dana and I was now walking towards my sister.
"There you are I've been looking for you" I said.
"Well here I am" Dana replied sarcastically.
"Carter told me about what happened, do you want to talk about it?" I asked.
"There's nothing to talk about" Dana hastily replied.
"Oh yes there is, don't try and avoid the issue, it's what I usually do and it will only bother you" I said.
"I thought I was over it" Dana said quietly.
"Over it?" I asked.
"Being raped, being used like a piece of meat. But seeing my other self in that room and the way she was dressed it all came back" Dana answered.
"How was she dressed and why did it remind you of being raped?" I asked.
"She was dressed how I used to be when I was the Glitz Girl and there were photo's of me all around the room. It just made me remember when I was the Glitz Girl all I thought of was getting money for medical school, I didn't realise that it would make me feel like an object" Dana replied.
"And when you were raped that made you feel like an object and not a person" I said.
"Yes and seeing those photos I guess I went a little crazy and just lashed out" Dana said.
"I'll say from what Carter says you trashed the room completely, destroying everything that was in there" I said.
"Okay I got a little carried away, but I had to do it, it was like a reminder of that and I had to get rid of it" Dana said.
"At least you've faced your demons and not backed away. Just one more thing remind never to get you mad at me" I said.
At that Dana glanced at the serious look on my face and she broke into a smile and so did I and we started to laugh at the whole situation. Meanwhile Rachel had reappeared after an hours sleep.
"Hey guys are you ready for this?" Rachel asked.
"I'm ready to do my part, but if you mean am I ready to go out into a battle that may result in me dying, then no I'm not" Tina replied.
"Good I was worried it was just me. I mean what's going to happen if we die, what will they tell our parents" Rachel asked.
"Well, if we all die then there won't be anyone to tell our parents anything" Jon said.
"Jon you're not helping" Jo said.
"I know, but it did have to be said" I said.
"Do you mind not sneaking up on people I'd rather not die of a heart attack" Hannah said.
"As opposed to say, being stabbed to death," I said humorously.
"Exactly, at least I'd see that coming and I could put up a fight" Hannah said.
"To be honest this battle doesn't scare me, I guess that what comes from dying and facing death so many times before" I said.
"Really you aren't scared at all" Bradley asked.
"A little, but at the moment I can't think of a better way to go out than fighting the good fight alongside my friends" I said.
"You're getting very sentimental in your old age" Tina said.
"Perhaps, but.." I started to say.
I was interrupted as the alarm went off and I turned around as Billy hurried to the console.
"Guys we have big trouble" he said.
"What is it?" Carter 2 asked.
"Well you know that plan where we go and find all the monsters and destroy them, well we don't have to go looking for them anymore" Billy answered.
"Why not?" Joel asked.
"Because they are all heading here at the moment" Billy replied.
"Oh crap, how many?" I asked.
"From scanning the planet I think this is every monster on the planet and then some. Adam the Emperor is with them" Billy said.
"Guess he decided to finish this personally. Good I have some unfinished business with the Emperor" Karone said.
"Karone this isn't the time for revenge, we have to work together as a team and not go off on some vendetta. That means you Kat and you as well Tommy" I said sharply.
"What did we do?" Tommy asked.
"After what he did to both of you I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to kill him" I said.
"Oh I want him dead, but I won't jeopardise the mission. I'll leave the Emperor for now" Tommy said.
"Good everyone say their last good-byes and then lets go take back this world" I said.
As I said that there were a few emotional good-byes and then as one the group turned ready for battle. With a nod everyone initiated his or her morphing calls and teleported out of the Zeo Chamber leaving behind only this universe's version of Ashley recovering from the stab wound she received earlier.
In streaks of red, blue, green, black, pink, yellow, silver, gold, white and purple the Ranger reappeared right in front of the massive army. At the head of the army was the Emperor who smiled as he saw the Rangers arrive and he said. "Welcome Rangers of both universes to your destruction. Oh and Adam it is so good to see you again and looking so well".
"Well gee it's so nice to see you're concerned with my wellbeing. Before we beat the crap out of your army, care to enlighten us on to how you survived" I shouted.
"It's only fair if you tell me how you survived as well" The Emperor said.
"Well ok, you were really sloppy and didn't get the job done and I never died. I was just hiding waiting to see what you'd do next" I said.
"Don't lie to me, I know you were dead. I survived because I have the most advanced technology known, but you should be dead," the Emperor said.
"Ok, the powers that be brought me back so I could finish the job on you" I said.
"I somehow doubt that, anyway enough of the pleasantries. Attack take no prisoners," the Emperor shouted.
With that the horde of Cogs, Piranhatrons, Torachian Warriors, Putties and others charged at the assembled Rangers. With a shout the Rangers charged toward them and dove into battle. At first the battle was very slow as each side used the opportunity to test each other out and feel for weaknesses and then everything changed as Rangers paired up with the people they had fought beside before and fought back to back.
The battle hadn't gone on for to long when the Torachian Warriors produced weapons and started to hack at the Rangers and Skull in surprise felt a sword cut through his armour and straight into him. Crying out as he felt the sword stab into him he felt the sword start to push deeper and then the satisfied smirk on the face of the warrior changed and was replaced by horror. The warrior he looked down and saw a sword coming out of his own chest and he collapsed to the floor in a heap leaving the sword still embedded in Skull. Grimacing in pain as he removed the sword he turned to his rescuer and said. "Thanks for your help Kimberly".
"No problem, I guess he got the point. Are you going to be okay?" Kimberly asked.
"I think so, he didn't get to deep and the power is healing the wound mostly, I just need a few minutes or so to recover" Skull answered.
"Kind of hard to have a minute, you do realise we're surround by hundreds of the enemy" Kim said sarcastically.
"Kim if you hadn't of told me I would never of realised" Skull replied just as sarcastically.
"Okay you've got your few minutes I'll protect you" Kim said.
"I'll never live it down saved by a girl" Skull muttered.
"I heard that and at least you're still alive to feel the humiliation" Kim said with a hint of humour.
While Kim protected Skull as the power slowly healed him others fought back and despite being heavily outnumbered the Rangers cut a swath through the enemy soldiers. The newly empowered Morphin Rangers of this universe and both Dulcea and Ninjor aided their struggle.
"Never fear Rangers, Ninjor is here" the guardian of the ninja power yelled.
"Yes, welcome Ninjor to the final destruction of good" the Emperor shouted.
"Man does he like the sound of his own voice.. Hey I don't talk as much as he does do I," I asked.
"Yes, but at least you're not a raving lunatic like he is" Rachel answered telepathically.
"Thanks I think. You doing okay?" I asked.
"Considering everything I'd rather be anywhere but here" Rachel replied.
"I did say you didn't have to do this" I said.
"And miss out on all this fun" Rachel said sarcastically.
I didn't reply as I was pounced on by a group of warriors and I was too busy fending them off when I heard the scream. Turning I saw our Trini surrounded by a group of monsters and they were steadily beating her down despite her efforts to stop them. Activating my headset radio I said. "Can anyone help Trini she is in serious trouble and I can't help her".
Even as I asked the question I was not surprised that there was no reply, as I knew everyone else was too busy trying not to get killed. Meanwhile Trini was battling hard against the monsters and then one got in a lucky blow and she was knocked from her feet and she fell to the floor. Barely stopping she sprang back to her feet and attempted to battle her way back against the monsters. She continued for several minutes and slowly began to realise that she was outnumbered and no help was coming. Picking up her bladeblaster from where it had fallen she glanced over at Rachel who half turned at her gaze and then Trini lunged into the centre of the monsters. And before anyone could stop her there was an explosion as the bladeblaster exploded and when the dust settled monsters were both gone and destroyed and Trini collapsed to the floor in a heap and demorphed. Myself, Rachel and Kim reached her at the same time. Rachel gasped in fright as she looked at the bloody mess Trini's beautiful face now was. Despite the obvious pain Trini somehow turned and locked eyes with Rachel and then she sunk backwards and closed her eyes and drew her last breath.
"Oh god Trini, no please god not you" Kim screamed.
I tried hard to remain unemotional as I bent down and felt in vain for a pulse. Standing up I shook my head and said. "She's gone but at least she took several monsters with her".
"Is that all you have to say, she is.. was your friend" Kim shouted at me.
"I'll grieve later, now we have more important things to worry about" I said.
"Rachel she seemed to be communicating with you, what did she say?" Kim asked.
"She told me to tell her friends she loves them and to tell her parents that she loves them" Rachel said.
Kim nodded and without a second word to me returned to the battle. Reaching for my communicator and said. "Power Chamber this is Adam can you teleport Trini's body there?"
In a flash of faded yellow Trini disappeared and then Adam and Rachel returned to the battle. The battle raged on as the Rangers saddened and perhaps angered by the death of one of their own intensified the struggle to win.
From a vantage point near the battle the Emperor watched. "Alas poor Trini I knew her well. Devastator the battle is not going as I had planned".
"Is it not master, I would have thought that one dead Ranger and several injured would please you" Devastator replied.
"It doesn't, I want more dead. Devastator go and kill the other Trini as well," the Emperor said.
"As you wish and if any other Ranger tries to stop me they will die as well" Devastator replied.
Devastator left the Emperor stood on his own and he said to himself. "Destroy them all, I will have total domination".
"Total domination over my dead body" a voice said.
Turning the Emperor allowed a smile to cross his lips and he replied. "Ah Rocky come to try and stop me".
The Red Morphin Ranger didn't reply and instead in his hand appeared the power sword and he said. "I'm going to do what we should have done when you first fell to the darkness".
"And what's that scold me" the Emperor said sarcastically.
"Kill you, for every life you've taken I am the instrument of justice" Rocky 2 said.
"And they say I'm melodramatic. Very well to the death Red Ranger" the Emperor said.
Producing a sword as black as his armour the Emperor attacked the Red Morphin Ranger. Even as the two former friends met in battle Devastator located the Pink Zeo Ranger of this universe and prepared to carry out his masters bidding.
"Pink Zeo Ranger prepare to die" Devastator cried.
Surprised Trini barely avoided the contact from Devastator sword and then had to move quicker to avoid his next thrust. Trini quickly called for her power shield and just in time as Devastator brought his sword towards her again and it bounced harmlessly of the shield. Devastator stepped back for a second and then was felled by a stream of pink energy, which changed back into another Pink Zeo Ranger.
"So you want to kill a Pink Zeo Ranger, well then you're going to have to kill both of us. If you can" Kat said.
"The Emperor said the other Trini was to die, but I don't think he'll mind if I kill you as well" Devastator said.
"I think you'll find we're not so easy to kill" Trini 2 said.
"As you humans say talk is cheap" Devastator snarled.
Then he charged at the two Pink Rangers who defended themselves against a far more powerful opponent. Across the battlefield Rangers thinned the mass of foot soldiers and found themselves against various monsters intent on destroying the Rangers.
Regrouping various Rangers joined into their respective groups. I found myself joining up with the Galaxy Rangers and the Magna Defender.
"Adam are you okay?" Leo asked.
"I'm fine, a bit battered but otherwise okay. I think its time these monsters learnt about the power of the Lights of Orion" I said.
"I couldn't agree more, but who's the target" Kai asked.
"Take your pick, whoever happens to be in our way. Now Lights of Orion activate" I called out.
The six Galaxy Rangers felt the power of the lights flow through them and then with a nod to Adam the others stood ready.
Looking around Adam saw a Pink Morphin Ranger on the ground with a monster over her.
"There's our target, so lets do it. Power up mode" I shouted.
With a flash of energy the Galaxy Rangers smashed straight through the monster who exploded in a burst of energy.
"Kim are you okay?" Maya asked.
"I&