Episode 7-- "I STAY AWAY"
I STAY AWAY
Angel Grove.
The Scott residence.
Jason’s room is decorated with several posters. They depict famed martial artists, including Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Tony Jaa, Yuen Biao and Jean Claude Van Damme. A great amount of martial arts trophies adorn the shelves.
Jason and Billy sit on Jason’s bed, while Zack sits in a bean bag on the floor. They watch the TV as an episode of “The Simpson’s" draws to an end.
Zack chuckles thru a grin on his face. “Man, that’s good stuffâ€.
Billy surveys the trophies on the wall. “These trophies are quite an accomplishment. Are you anticipating the upcoming Martial Arts Expo?â€
“Yeah. I’m a little nervous about it, but I always am," Jason answers.
“But you always come out on top," Zack adds.
“I know. But I wasn’t a Power Ranger any of those times. With our luck, Rita will send Goldar down during the competition. Or just before, and I’ll break a leg or something," Jason worries.
“We should be able to handle any spontaneous attacks of Rita’s in time for you to participate in this year’s events. If it would help, I can assist in creating a training regimen specified to your interests and capabilities that would assist in your goals for this event," Billy volunteered.
“Really? I don’t know, Billy. Every year I get worried that maybe my skills are a little outdated," Jason admits. “But to be honest, I feel like it’s something I have to do on my ownâ€.
“In any case, your experience as a Power Ranger will no doubt help you achieve success. When and if you’re willing, the entire team can assist in your training. Including the girls," Billy adds.
Zack looks at the picture on Jason‘s nightstand of the 5 teens together. “Speaking of the girls--," Zack sees Jason turn to him with a dour look. “--or notâ€.
“It’s getting rather late. I should be getting home so that I can prepare for Ms. Applebee’s English test at the end of the week. I can also get started on outlining a regimen for you to use, should you decide that you’ll accept our assistance," Billy says.
“Yeah, I’ll head out with you. You know we’re here for you if you need us, man," Zack says to Jason.
“Yeah, I know. I’ll see you guys tomorrow," Jason says.
Hours pass and the early part of the night is now very early morning. Jason lies under his blankets unable to sleep as he is deep in thought.
“C’mon, Jase," Kim encourages. “Look, I didn’t tell you the way I felt about what happened so that you could sulk about it. Just don’t push me away like this. Don’t stop being one of my best friends. That’d hurt, like, a million times more. Pleaseâ€
They share an uneasy glance.
“I got to go," Jason says as he turns away from Kim.
“So, that’s it then? You’re just going leave me alone again like this? Again?," Kim says, reflections of anger gleaning in her voice.
Jason is again silent.
“Fine then. Just be careful with that solitude you so desperately need. You’ll only have yourself to blame when you find yourself stuck there. Aloneâ€
Jason rolls over in his bed, and finds him self facing the wall with shelves containing some of his many trophies. He remembers the work he put into earning each and every one. He looks to his nightstand at a picture of him, Zack, Trini, Kim, & Billy. He yawns as he looks beside the picture at his alarm clock. It reads 12:37 a.m., but only for a second before his vision blurs and sleep ultimately sets in.
The Moon.
Rita’s Palace.
Rita sits in a chamber of the Palace, going thru a very thick spell book. Finster enters.
“My Queen, you are still awake," Finster notices.
“And what gave it away, dog face? Let me guess, my eyes are still open?," Rita asks sarcastically.
“But my Queen, you should be getting rest. Your semi-humanoid physiology requires that you--," Finster is interrupted by Rita.
“Can it! Finster you are never to speak on that subject EVER again! Got that?! Besides, I’m busy searching for a spell that’ll help me take down those Power Brats. They’ve thwarted my attacks too many times. I want to see them crumble and the way to do that is to start with the head," Rita says.
“You mean Zordon?," Finster asks.
“No, you mutt!," Rita yells. “Those Rangers would get in my way before I could get to Zordon. I’m going to start with the Red Ranger. He foiled my plan to abduct the Mayor and turn the public at large against the Rangers. For that he will pay!â€
“I see. Then it may be of interest to you that I have recently designed a quite nefarious creature who will prove most useful in an effort to divide the Power Rangers. With the team broken, you will have the Red Ranger all to yourself, with no interruptions," Finster tells his mistress.
“Oh, yes!," Rita shakes her fist. “We can divide that team that Jason is so fond of for their ability to stand unitedâ€.
“Yes, Empress, but the success of this plan would be far greater if you were well rested. You haven’t slept in a month," Finster notes.
Rita yawns. “Oh, all right. I’ll take a brief beauty nap but when I awake I want that monster ready for action!," Rita demands.
“Yes, of course, of course. Now, off to bed you go," Finster hurries Rita along.
“Yeah, yeah. You just better have that thing ready to go as soon as I awake," Rita says as she walks toward the exit.
“As you wish. Good night, my Queenâ€.
Angel Grove High School.
Day.
The final bell of the day excuses the students who are very eager, for several reasons, to leave campus. Billy and Zack walk together thru the halls.
“Well, I did manage to put together a rather complex regimen which Jason might find helpful in his training for the Martial Arts Expo occurring in the coming months," Billy tells his friend.
Kim and Trini join the guys. “Hey, guys," Trini greets.
“Hey ladies," Zack responds. “Billy, I’m sure this regimen you’ve put together would do a lot of good, but I think we need to give Jase some roomâ€.
“Is this about the Expo that’s coming up in a couple months?," Trini asks.
“Yeah. That reminds me, where is Jase?," Zack asks.
“He has Gym class 6th period, remember? His teacher is allowing him to work out at the Youth Center several times a week to prepare for the event," Billy answers.
“Well, we’re headed there anyway, right?," Trini asks. “We can ask if there’s anything we can do to helpâ€.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea. At this point, I think we should just respect his wanting to be alone. For now, at least," Zack answers. He turns to Trini who turns to Kim. Kim is silent.
Trini looks back to Zack and nods. “Come on," Zack says. “The park’s as good a place as any to study for Mrs. Applebee’s test on Fridayâ€.
The Youth Center.
The Gym & Juice Bar.
Jason lays back on a bench press, hard at work lifting weights. Sweat beads litter his forehead as he works hard to maintain his concentration on his fitness, working equally as hard not to concentrate on anything or anyone else.
Rita’s Palace.
Finster’s Workshop
“Finster, you dolt! You let me oversleep! And my monster isn‘t even ready?!," Rita screams. Finster stands beside Goldar at the pottery table where Finster finishes fashioning a small clay item mold.
“I thought it best to let you catch up on rest. In the meantime, I have fashioned a weapon for your new monster. I believe you will be quite pleased with the addition. It will serve to give the monster even more fire power," Finster explains.
“Did you use the resin or the clay?," Rita asks.
“Both, actually. However, I did make it a point to use just a smidgeon more resin than I did with the Pudgy Pig," Finster answers.
Rita moves up to the pottery table. “Is this it?".
“Yes, my Queenâ€.
“It looks strong. I like that. I’m feeling well rested and ready to put it to those Power Pukes. Get it in the Monster-Matic now and set it to high," Rita demands. “I can’t wait to overwhelm them and watch them sufferâ€.
Finster hurriedly places the clay figure on the conveyor, wheels it into the oven, sets it to high, and activates it.
“My Queen," Goldar interjects. “If you want to overwhelm the Rangers, I think it’d be a good idea to send myself and the Putties down alongside the new monster to battle the Power Rangersâ€.
“Goldar, I’ll use your idea when it’s crunch time. In the meantime, shut your snout!," Rita demands.
The machine shoots out smoke as Finster calls Rita’s attention to it. “My Queen. This is King Sphinx," A large blue muscular monster with a pharaoh-like head is produced from the large gray tube. It wields a tall Egyptian style staff.
“How ugly! Finster this is just what I wanted!," Rita exclaims.
“I am pleased that you are pleased, Empress. With the beating of his wings, King Sphinx is able to produce a strong gust of mystical force with the power to displace matter and energy," Finster replies.
Rita smiles with delight. “Now then. I will send down the Putties to soften up those kids. Then we’ll drop the heavy-hitter right on their heads!â€
Angel Grove Park.
Zack’s large SUV pulls into the vacant parking lot.
“Look at this place. More and more people are leaving Angel Grove everyday," Trini says.
“Geez, it’s like ‘The Town That Dreaded Sundown’," Kim remarks as she and the others step out of the car.
“Actually, it’s more like ‘Rumble In Angel Grove’. Look," Zack points out to a group of Putties back-flipping out of thin air.
“Great. Looks like Jason’s not the only one getting ready for a fight," Trini remarks as she and her friends toss their back-packs into the car. The Putty Patrol seizes the four teens who make their way around the vehicle to do battle.
Zack poses at the front, driver’s side of the vehicle. A Putty throws a spinning-heel kick at Zack who jumps back and kips up off of the side of the SUV’s hood, landing on one foot, with the other foot crashing into the Putty’s chest. Another Putty sneaks in from the side with a sidekick to Zack’s ribs.
At the front passenger side of the SUV, Trini stands ready in a fight stance as a Putty comes at her, throwing a punch from each side. Trini blocks each and lifts a knee into the Putty’s stomach, then throws a knife hand chop to the side of it’s neck. It throws a backhand that she ducks, but the Putty isn’t as lucky when she returns the favor with a backhand of her own.
Billy ducks a Putty’s jump kick then swings his arms across it’s face in a double-axe handle strike. Hands still weaved together, Billy swings back at the Putty with another double-axe handle strike that the assailant catches. The Putty then throws a kick into Billy’s stomach, knocking him back-first against the back of Zack’s SUV.
Kim blocks a Putty’s punch and strikes it in the head with a high kick, flooring it. Another Putty lunges at her with a punch that she side steps, leaning straight down as she throws a kick straight up behind her, reaching to the Putty’s face. It stumbles back as Kim grabs it by the arm and pulls it to her, slamming her elbow into it’s face. The Putty stumbles backward to the ground as Kim moves back in a series of back-handsprings.
Trini now stands in front of the SUV. She blocks a Putty’s punch and hits it in the face with a palm-strike, sending it backwards to Zack who jump kicks it in the back, sending it back to Trini who catches one of it’s arms and flips it onto it’s back. She then slams a karate chop down hard onto it’s neck.
Billy blocks a front kick from a Putty then lunges forward with an elbow to it’s chest. Billy retaliates, punching Billy across the face. He spins 180 degrees as the Putty moves behind him. Billy throws a back kick that pushes the Putty backward as Kim comes in from a round-off, jumps high, and lands a back kick to the back of the Putty’s head. The Putty stumbles forward toward Billy who uses a sweep to send it crashing to the ground.
The 4 Rangers perform a signature kata as the squad of fallen Putties that litter the parking lot vanish. The teens convene.
“Man, I should have known better than to expect a Monday to be a good day," Zack remarks.
“I’m sure you didn’t expect a ‘Monday’ to serve as the day you die, either, Black Ranger," speaks a monstrous voice. The Rangers turn to face the creature.
“Actually, I did," Zack replies as he, Kim, Billy, and Trini assemble side by side and assume new fight stances.
“I see. Well, before the day is done, allow me to share with you an accessory of mine," King Sphinx says as he raises his staff.
“Didn’t anyone tell you too many accessories clutter an outfit? Come on, guys. Let’s show this clod how to accessorize," Kim quips.
“It’s Morphin’ Time!," Zack shouts. The 4 Rangers reach behind their backs and draw their morphers. They maneuver the morphers forward and press the triggers.
“Mastodonâ€
“Pterodactylâ€
“Triceratopsâ€
“Saber-Tooth Tigerâ€
The morphers snap open and the coins catalyze an induction of colorful Morphin power that envelops the teens.
“Quite a show," King Sphinx comments as he begins to flap his wings, generating an odd translucent force, accompanied by wind. “But I’m gonna have to put an end to this light show!," The Sphinx’ power rushes the energy charged Rangers, sweeping them backward in streaks of light of their respective colors.
Angel Grove Youth Center.
The Gym & Juice Bar.
Jason sets the barbell back into its holder and sits up on the bench. He wipes sweat from his forehead with his left wrist, where his communicator should be. He has yet to find out the consequences for this action.
“Hey, Jason," a teen enters the gym and waves to Jason as he approaches.
“Hey, Richie. What’s going on?," Jason asks.
“Not too much. Just came by to drop off my work permit with Ernie. I forgot to turn it in with my application. Where are Trini and the others? You guys are like hyenas, you move in packs," Richie asks.
“Aww, I got a lot of training to do for the Martial Arts Expo coming up in a couple months. Kind of needed to do this on my own. What about you? Are you going to be competing?," Jason asks.
“I don’t know. They have that whole weapons mastery exhibition thing and I’m not really good with any kind of weapon," Richie answers.
Jason stands up. “That’s too bad, man. Give it some thought. You can’t stand for much of anything if you don’t give things a try in order to find out where it is you standâ€.
“That’s good advice, Jason. Can I give you a little advice maybe?," Richie asks as he leans in to Jason, as if to tell a secret.
“Sure, man. Go for it," Jason answers.
“Take a shower. You stink," Richie and Jason laugh.
“Yeah, I’m on my way. I’ll see you at school tomorrow, man," Jason departs for the…
Men’s Locker Room.
Jason’s communicator sounds off from within his locker. Unfortunately, Jason isn’t around to hear it. Jason walks in, unlocks his locker, and quickly undresses, throwing his sweaty clothes into his bag and on top of his communicator. He grabs his towel, wraps it around his waist, and hurries off to the shower. The communicator sounds off again, this time muffled under Jason’s clothes. No one is around to hear it anyway.
The Moon.
Rita’s Palace.
“All right!," Rita cries. “We’re getting off to a wicked start here. King Sphinx has done away with the Red Ranger’s Power pals. Now, he is all mine!â€
The Gym & Juice Bar.
Men’s Locker Room.
Jason shuffles back to his locker in a pair of sandals , with a towel around his waist. He opens the locker, takes out his clean clothes and begins to dress. He finishes by tying his shoes, and as he does, hears the muffled sound of his communicator’s alert. He digs thru his dirty clothes and pulls out the communicator.
“Come in, Zordon," Jason says into his activated device as he roams along the locker room aisle’s to see if anyone is around.
“Jason, I am relieved to hear from you. We have an emergency. Please teleport to the Command Center now," Zordon says.
“On my way," Jason puts his morpher in his back pocket, locks his locker and clasps his communicator onto his wrist, then teleports out.
The Command Center.
Jason teleports in. “What‘s up, Zordon? Where are the other Rangers?,"
“Ay Yi Yi, Jason. I’m afraid they are in serious trouble," Alpha blurts out.
“Please turn your attention to the Viewing Globe,," Zordon tells Jason.
Jason turns to see the Rangers facing off with King Sphinx then get done away with in the middle of the transformation.
“Finster has created a monster for Rita by the name of King Sphinx. With its wings, it has the power to displace energy. In this case, King Sphinx has done so with your friends while in the midst of morphing," Zordon explains.
Jason watches with a disturbed look. “No. Zordon, are they okay?"
“I am afraid that at this time, we are uncertain. I am sensing their powers, however, I cannot get a coherent lock on them. As it stands, they exist in an incomplete state of both solid matter and energy. As such, the computer’s are having difficulty with distinguishing their life signs," Zordon answered.
Jason slams his fist beside a computer panel.
“AY Yi Yi, Jason," Alpha moves toward the Ranger. “Please, calm down".
“No. This is my fault. I’m the leader of this team, and look what I’ve done. I took my communicator off and couldn’t be there for them when I should have been; when they needed me. And what’s worse…this could have been avoided if I would have let them be there for me in the first place," Jason says.
“Jason, I understand your dilemma. However, it does not appear that we have lost the Ranger’s yet. The Sphinx’ powers are what has taken them from us," Alpha explains.
“Then maybe by destroying him, I can get them back," Jason surmises.
“I am always hesitant to send a Ranger into the field alone. Unfortunately, it seems we have no other choice," Zordon says.
“No. There is no other choice. There never could be. I have to do this. On my own," Jason says.
“Good luck, Jason," Alpha says.
“Jason, be careful. And may the Power protect you," Zordon bids.
“It’s Morphin’ Time! Tyrannosaurus!â€.
Angel Grove Park.
Red Ranger appears behind King Sphinx in a streak of red light. “All right, creep! Bring my friends back fast or I’ll bring you down hard!," he shouts as he performs a martial arts kata.
“Well, if it isn’t Red Ranger: Guest of honor," King Sphinx says.
“I mean it, fang face! I want my friends back now!," Red Ranger demands.
“No way! You’re over your head in this, Ranger!," King Sphinx shouts as he raises his staff, tense to act.
The Moon.
Rita’s Palace.
Rita cackles with evil glee. “Yes, yes! Time to crush him! Goldar!,"
“Yes, Empress?," Goldar asks, as he appears in a flash of flames on the balcony, startling Finster, Baboo, and Squatt.
“Goldar, it’s crunch time," Rita tells her warrior.
“I understand," Goldar growls. He raises his sword and disappears as quickly as he appeared, in an eruption of flames.
Angel Grove Park.
King Sphinx holds his staff out in front of him and projects several charges of red and orange energy in Red Ranger’s direction. Red Ranger somersaults to the side, narrowly avoiding the blasts as they impact the ground with a shower of sparks.
King Sphinx and Red Ranger lunge at each other with an intense ferocity.
“Power Sword!," Red Ranger slashes down vertically at King Sphinx who high blocks with his staff. The two weapons grind against each other. “Bring my friends back now!â€
“You’re friends are as good as dead. But if you’re this intent on being reunited with them, I’d be happy to oblige!," King Sphinx replies.
Red Ranger throws a front kick into the Sphinx’ stomach, pushing him back. He presses forward with a spinning-heel kick that strikes the monster across the face. Red Ranger moves in, raising his Sword to strike but is denied the opportunity when a fire-based energy attack hits him in the back, causing a shower of sparks as it throws him forward toward the Sphinx who swats him to the ground with his staff in a burst of sparks.
Red Ranger rises to his feet as King Sphinx and Goldar circle him, ready to attack.
“You’re in trouble, Red Ranger. And you have none of your candy-colored pals to help you out this time," Goldar growls as he brandishes his sword.
“I don’t need help taking you out, Goldar. I’ve played you once before," Red Ranger replies.
“You have a knack for presenting yourself as a threat that you fail to impose," Goldar says as he slides his hand over his sword, charging it with energy. He lashes out with the weapon, releasing a blast that strikes Red Ranger in the chest.
Red Ranger rolls across the parking lot, landing on his back just as King Sphinx strikes down at him with his staff. Red Ranger blocks the strike with his Power Sword. He’s loathed to admit it, but Red Ranger is faced with the problem he was warned about. The outcome of which he feels is a result of his own ego.
“So, that’s it then? You’re just going leave me alone again like this? Again?," Kim says, reflections of anger gleaning in her voice.
Jason is again silent.
“Fine then. Just be careful with that solitude you so desperately need. You’ll only have yourself to blame when find yourself stuck there. Aloneâ€
“NO!," Red Ranger throws a high kick that strikes King Sphinx in the forehead, knocking him back, giving the Red Ranger the opportunity to rise to his feet as Goldar moves in.
Goldar strikes at red Ranger who deflects the attack with his sword, then is struck in the side by a side kick from King Sphinx, pushing him back as Goldar releases an optic blast that Red Ranger absorbs into the blade of his sword. He turns and discharges the energy toward the attacking King Sphinx, knocking him back in a shower of sparks as Goldar moves in with a horizontal cut across Red Ranger’s chest.
King Sphinx jump kicks Red Ranger in the side of the helmet, pushing him to the side where Goldar rakes him across the chest with his claws. Red Ranger lands a high kick against Goldar as the Sphinx punches Red Ranger in the lower back, causing him to stumble forward.
Goldar and the Sphinx regroup and cross their weapons, aiming them forward with a massive discharge of red and orange fire-type energy that hits Red Ranger powerfully in the stomach, letting out a shower of sparks as he is thrown backward, over the concrete and into the grass.
Rita’s Moon Palace.
Rita lets out a sickening laugh. “This is it, Finster! My plan is working! Now, for the final step! Magic wand, makes my monster’s grow!,"
The orb on Rita’s wand flashes as she throws it over the balcony and into space. Transverse circular force rolls over the staff as it moves at supernatural speed toward the Earth.
The wand bursts thru the Earth’s atmosphere and lands in the park, causing a tremor as the energy glowing of the wand’s orb passes down the wand, thru the ground and is transmitted to King Sphinx and Goldar. An explosion engulfs them, reaching into the sky. When it dissipates, Goldar and King Sphinx stand tall, but not as they were before. Now they stand taller than the tallest skyscrapers in Angel Grove.
“Aww, man. My problems just got a whole lot bigger. I’m in trouble here," Red Ranger wearily makes his way to his feet and activates his communicator. “Alpha, any luck getting a lock on the others?â€
The Command Center.
“Ay Yi Yi! Jason, we’re still working on it, but it’s difficult with the Ranger’s in a state of energy conversion. That energy is pervasively discorporate. We‘ve managed to slow the rate of discorporation with some of the teleportation unit‘s technology," Alpha explains.
“Jason, listen to me," Zordon begins. “The Power exists in a harmonic amalgamation that each of you have access to with your Power Coins. Use the Power to focus your Ranger energies with that of your teammates. Thru your powers, you must unite with your team. If you can reach out to your friends, they can in turn reach out to you, using your current state of resolved energy form for theirs to synchronize toâ€.
Angel Grove Park.
“I understand, Zordon. I’ll give it a tr--," Red Ranger is interrupted when Goldar releases a large optic blast that impacts the land around him and large bursts of sparks, tossing Red Ranger across the landscape. He tries to get up as King Sphinx fires down on him with his staff, tossing him back even further.
“I…have to…reach out," Red Ranger slowly rises to his feet, using his Power Sword for balance. Red Ranger sticks his Sword into the ground, pulls his coin from his morpher and holds it pressed in between his palms as he concentrates.
Red Ranger closes his eyes and recalls an image of the tumultuous ocean at Stone Canyon Beach Boardwalk.
“I like it out here. There’s a sense of calm. Even when the water doesn’t seem to feel it, I do".
The ground trembles around Red Ranger as the giant King Sphinx and Goldar march toward him.
……Jason sits, fully clothed, at the water’s edge. He watches as the water complies with the wind’s orders. The flow of the water is tumultuous. He finds analogy between the water and his emotions.
Goldar and King Sphinx close in.
“I’ve wanted to be with you for so long. I just never knew how to tell you," Jason confesses.
Kim smiles. “I think you just did,"
The Command Center.
Alpha 5 works at the computers. “Zordon, the other Ranger’s scattered energies are resolving. They are coalescing with the Power Jason is summoningâ€.
“Jason, Goldar and King Sphinx present a threat you and the others have never faced before. There is a higher power each of you can summon. To control it, you must summon strength thru the Power. With that strength, you can combat this threat,†Zordon communicates thru an open comm. link.
Angel Grove Park.
Goldar and King Sphinx prepare their weapons for attack as they move in. Red Ranger stands in a meditative pose; palms together, with his coin in between them.
Particles of black, pink, blue, and yellow energy swarm the parking lot.
“It’s happening. I can feel them, thru the Morphin Grid. Thru the Power. They feel me reaching out to them. I can feel them reaching out to me ,too," Red Ranger says, his eyes closed beneath his helmet as his head remains lowered.
Red Ranger is struck again with the image of the tumultuous ocean. It begins to calm.
Jason stands up and clenches his fists as he stares up into the sky. “I can feel it. In the heavens. Something…… Give me strength," he whispers into the wind.
Red Ranger opens his eyes beneath his helmet as he moves his palms apart. As they do, red Morphin energy generates from his coin, forming a crystal.
The swarming particles of energy in the parking lot comes together in a burst of black, pink, blue, and yellow energy, from which Zack, Kim, Billy, and Trini come running.
Red Ranger looks past the massive legs of the monsters approaching him to see his friends charging behind them. Their morphers are worn over one hand, their power coins in the other. The 4 Rangers slap their coins into their morphers and hold them out before them. They press the triggers and, in a burst of their respective colors, become the Mighty Morphin Power Ranger.
Red Ranger holds his crystal high in the air. “I summon the power of the Tyrannosaurusâ€.
Goldar and King Sphinx stop as they look up to see the sky above them resonate with an intense red light.
Red Ranger reaches up to the sky. “Tyrannosaurus Dinozord Power!,†From the clouds, jumps down a colossal machinated giant. It is the Tyrannosaurus Dinozord. Red Ranger leaps into the air to board it.
“Mastodon Dinozord Power," Zack calls out. Kim does the same.
“Pterodactyl Dinozord Power," Billy follows Zack and Kim’s lead.
“Triceratops Dinozord Power,â€
“Saber-Tooth Tiger Dinozord Power," Trini shouts.
The 4 Rangers leap into the air as 4 more machinated giants enter the scene. Black Ranger lands in the cockpit of the Mastodon Dinozord. The Pterodactyl Dinozord swoops in as Pink Ranger lands inside. Blue Ranger lands in the cockpit of the Triceratops Dinozord, and Yellow Ranger does the same, landing inside the Saber-Tooth Tiger Dinozord.
“Tyrannosaurus, power up!," Red Ranger connects his Power Crystal into the console in the cockpit of the Dinozord. “Rangers, put your hands together and summon your Power Crystal’s, using your coins!â€
The 4 Rangers pull out their coins and hold them between their palms, concentrate, then bring their hands apart, summoning their Power Crystals.
“2-1, Power up!," the 4 teens shout as they connect their Power Crystals to the consoles in their Zord’s cockpits.
“Jason here. You guys on-line?â€
“Zack here. Mastodon Dinozord on-line. This is kickin‘!â€
“Billy here. Triceratops’ systems nominalâ€
“Trini here. Saber-Tooth Tiger, on-lineâ€
“Kim here. Nice stereo!,"
Rita’s Moon Palace.
“No! They’ve linked with the Dinozord’s! Goldar, Sphinx, destroy their Zord’s! That’s an order!," Rita shouts as her wand appears in her hands.
Angel Grove Park.
The Pterodactyl glides in thru the sky, performing in accordance with Pink Ranger’s utilization of the control console.
“Twice the size, and twice as ugly. Goldar, you and your play pal may think your tough because you’re over twice the size, but when it comes down to it, you’re nothing but a bigger target. Activating Ptera Blasts…now!," Pink Ranger activates her Zord’s weapons array, and from the shoulders of the Pterodactyl, she releases streams of blue electrical powers. The blasts hit Goldar and the Sphinx in a burst of sparks.
“I’m going to fillet these Rangers!," Goldar curses.
“We’ll use another combined weapon blast," King Sphinx says.
“Not so fast. You boys have caused enough problems. Time for you to chill!," Black Ranger types into his console, causing the Mastodon to raise its trunk and release jets of ice mist that freeze the monsters legs in place.
“Nice shooting, Zack. Now allow me to deal with this menace. Firing Tricera-Hooks!," Blue Ranger shouts.
The 2 silver horns atop the head of the Triceratops tank Dinozord fire off, chains trailing behind them. The grappling hooks hit their marks, winding tightly around the monster’s weapons.
“Raising Tail Cannon," Blue Ranger lifts a handle on his console, as the tail of the Triceratops lifts from it’s back. “Firing Tail Spark Cannon…now!,"
“Right, Billy! I’m with ya’!," Yellow Ranger activates the tail blaster on her Saber-Tooth Tiger Zord. It’s tail lifts into position. “Tiger Beam, now!â€
From the 2 barrels of the Triceratops tail stream a volley of explosive spark blasts, as the Saber-Tooth Tiger Zord unleashes a rush of energy. The two attacks strike Goldar and King Sphinx in a harsh shower of sparks, releasing them from their ice traps. The 2 monsters stumble backwards before they are hit in the back by a pair of metallic arms. The monsters turn to find themselves facing the Tyrannosaurus Dinozord.
“You should’ve have known better than to come here looking for trouble!," Red Ranger shouts from the cockpit of his Zord. The Tyrannosaurus spins, lashing out with its tail, striking the 2 monsters across the chests. The monsters tumble to the side across the larger grassy landscape of the west end of Angel Grove Park.
“Rangers," Zordon’s voice comes in over the consoles in their Zord’s cockpits. “Just as your powers have the capacity to unite, so do your Zord’s. Bring them together, and you will unite to form a higher powerâ€
“Awesome!," Black Ranger exclaims.
“Let’s do it!," Pink Ranger encourages.
“Megazord Attack-Tank Mode formation sequence activated," Red Ranger announces as he types into his console.
“Attack-Tank Mode has been initiated," the computer states.
The Triceratops and Saber-Tooth Tiger’s tail lower into their bodies as the 2 Zord’s roll backwards toward the Tyrannosaurus, which kneels down for it’s knees to lock into the back ends of the 2 Zord’s.
“This is amazing! We seem to know how to operate these things," Yellow Ranger exclaims.
“Affirmative! Thru our powers, it’s like second nature to us," Blue Ranger notes.
“Keep your eyes on the Zack-man! I’m heading in all kinds of directions," Black Rangers says as the Mastodon comes apart, its legs unraveling from within the Zord’s body as the head separates.
The Mastodon locks in around the back of the Tyrannosaurus, extending its legs forward, adorned at the ends with cannon’s. The Pterodactyl lands behind the Tyrannosaurus, standing atop the Mastodon Zord, whose head locks into the chest of the Tyrannosaurus.
“Megazord, Attack-Tank Mode engaged," the machine’s computer voice declares.
“Hit ‘em together!," King Sphinx shouts. He crosses his weapon with Goldar’s sword, releasing a massive energy blast at the Attack Tank. The blast hits the Mastodon face with a huge burst of sparks, rocking the Tank.
“Ha! Mastodon shield’s strength still holding," Black Ranger says proudly after looking over the computer console in front of him.
“Structural integrity down 4%. It appears the Mammoth Shield took a good portion of the blast," Blue Ranger notes.
“All right, we’ve got to end this. Let’s try giving him a taste of Morphin power," Red Ranger says.
“Interesting idea, Jason. We can transmit energy from our Power Crystal’s and redistribute it thru our united Zords," Blue Ranger notes.
“Let’s do it!," Red Ranger orders.
“Right!," Blue and Yellow Ranger raise a fist in compliance.
“Morphin!," Pink and Black Ranger nod in affirmation. The 5 Rangers reach to their consoles and fire. The Rangers respective energies fire from the eyes of each of their Zord’s and strike the charging King Sphinx and Goldar with a shower of sparks, pushing them back as King Sphinx drops his staff.
The giant staff falls toward the ground. Upon impact, it smashes thru trees and cracks the ground beneath it.
“Let’s finish this! Activating Megazord Battle-Mode!," Red Ranger shouts.
“Megazord sequence has been initiated," the computer states. The Pterodactyl flies off as the Mastodon head lifts away and the Tyrannosaurus stands up on the Triceratops and Saber-Tooth Tiger whose heads lift to form feet.
The Mastodon’s stretched out legs roll back, becoming replaced by fists. The chest of the Tyrannosaurus opens, as it’s face lowers into the open chest. The chest piece rises back to position as the Pterodactyl swoops in. It turns, folds it’s wings in, and locks over the chest as the remaining head of the Megazord opens up.
“Megazord Battle-Mode engaged," the computer says.
“No matter!," King Sphinx shouts as he picks up his staff.
“We’ll peel you apart!," Goldar curses. King Sphinx and Goldar leap into the air and fire blasts from each of their weapons. The energies hit the Megazord in the chest with a burst of sparks.
“Hey, watch the paint job!," Pink Ranger yells. The 2 monsters come down at the Megazord, bringing their weapons in at it.
“Mammoth Shield!," Black Ranger engages the shield. The head of his Zord appears in the Megazord’s hand as he raises it, blocking the 2 weapons. “Chew on this!," Black Ranger hits more buttons and the Mammoth Shield releases green optic blasts that knock the monster’s weapons into the air.
Goldar and King Sphinx jump up and catch their weapons, then turn in mid-air, crossing their weapons at the Megazord.
Before they can fire, Red Ranger takes action. “Power Sword Summon!"
Much like the Tyrannosaurus Dinozord did itself, the Megazord’s sword drops down from the clouds above. The giant sword slashes the 2 monsters as it drops down, knocking them out of the air in a shower of sparks. The Power Sword stabs into the ground and the Megazord pulls it loose as the 2 monsters rise to their feet. The Megazord lashes out with its sword, cutting across the temple of King Sphinx as sparks blast out from his eye.
Goldar strikes vertically toward the Megazord who blocks with its sword in a horizontal position. The Megazord lifts its right leg into Goldar’s stomach. The upturned teeth of the Saber-Tooth Tiger hit Goldar, throwing a shower of sparks as a result of the kick.
“Cranial Blast, now!," Red Ranger shouts.
“Right!," the other 4 Rangers comply.
The Megazord releases a flow of electrical energy from the zenith of its head, knocking Goldar to the ground.
“We’re gonna have to do this one at a time. You’re up, ugly!," Red Ranger shouts as the Megazord turns to face King Sphinx.
“No!," King Sphinx yells. The Megazord’s eyes glow as it lifts its sword high into the air. Intense heat emanates from the blade as it glows.
“You’ve had it!," Jason cries out.
The Ranger’s maneuver their arms, signaling the destruction of the monster as the Megazord brings the energized blade down, cutting thru the Sphinx and igniting it with the accumulated energy. Power bleeds out into the air as the dying Sphinx falls back onto the ground. The Power detonates the monsters body; simultaneously eradicating it’s threat.
“All right! We did it!," Pink Ranger shouts with excitement.
“Now, it’s your turn," Red Ranger pilots the Megazord as it turns to face Goldar.
“Another time, Rangers!," Goldar lifts his sword into the air and disappears in an eruption of flames.
“Oh no. Goldar got away," Yellow Ranger remarks.
“This time," Red Ranger replies.
Rita’s Moon Palace.
“You call yourself a warrior?!," Rita shouts angrily at Goldar who is down on one knee before her. “We had the Red Ranger in our grasps and you let him get away!â€
“His friends reappeared out of nowhere. It was Finster’s monster that fail--," Goldar is stopped when he is struck on the head by Rita’s wand.
“Finster! I want to talk to you! NOW!," Rita heads for Finster’s Workshop.
Angel Grove High School
The Track.
Zack and Jason run around the track as Billy stands at a certain point, monitoring with a stopwatch. Kimberly watches from a seat in the empty bleachers. Trini walks up toward the top of the bleachers to join her.
“Hey Kim," Trini takes a seat beside her friend.
“Hiâ€.
“What are you doing up here by yourself?," Trini asks.
“I want to be here to support Jason. But I’m just keeping a safe distance," Kim replies.
“Is that what you feel like the best thing to do is?," Trini asks.
“Kind of. Yeah. There’s that whole…‘issue’ Jason and I are having. It might not be there if we just settle for being friends. The last time I tried to deal with our ‘issue’ it only made everything I was afraid of happening actually happen. That hurt too much. And when I think about whether it hurt Jason too, it hurts even more. If letting go of everything else to keep our friendship is the only thing I can have, then I’ll have to settle for it," Kim answers.
“I’m not going to push any issues. I just want to see you, the both of you, happy," Trini says.
“Yeah. I do to," Kim says rather blankly, as though her mind is elsewhere. It is.
“Are you cold?," Jason asked.
“A little. Yeah," Kim answered.
Jason…wraps his black sweater around Kim’s shoulders.
Kimberly watches Jason and Zack run around the track. Her own mind races as well. The images come per force as she lets them play. Lets them flow out savory; almost a sugary confection. As she feared, though, it all just falls away.
“No, Kim. I do care. Not caring, that’s your department. I remember what I said Kim. I also remember what you said, too. You said that if you didn’t do something, if you didn’t act, you’d lose everything. You said you weren’t willing to lose someone you love. You said you were willing to stand up against your fears. If you have any care in your heart for me you wouldn’t let me stand here alone. And if you meant what you said back then, you wouldn’t be afraid be with me now. To stand with me now. No matter what side of the line I stand onâ€
“Kim. Kimberly?," Trini manages to receive Kim’s attention once more. “No matter what happens, you know you and he will always be friends, right?â€
Jason sits in a dark red Hummer and honks the horn. “Let’s get this show on the road, boys and girls".
Kim is surprised to see Jason outside of class. She looks to Trini.
“Remember what we talked about?," Trini asks. “Friends".
Kim nods. “Best of friends".
Kim returns to the somber, real world. She sighs. “Best of friendsâ€.
THE END
I STAY AWAY
Angel Grove.
The Scott residence.
Jason’s room is decorated with several posters. They depict famed martial artists, including Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Tony Jaa, Yuen Biao and Jean Claude Van Damme. A great amount of martial arts trophies adorn the shelves.
Jason and Billy sit on Jason’s bed, while Zack sits in a bean bag on the floor. They watch the TV as an episode of “The Simpson’s" draws to an end.
Zack chuckles thru a grin on his face. “Man, that’s good stuffâ€.
Billy surveys the trophies on the wall. “These trophies are quite an accomplishment. Are you anticipating the upcoming Martial Arts Expo?â€
“Yeah. I’m a little nervous about it, but I always am," Jason answers.
“But you always come out on top," Zack adds.
“I know. But I wasn’t a Power Ranger any of those times. With our luck, Rita will send Goldar down during the competition. Or just before, and I’ll break a leg or something," Jason worries.
“We should be able to handle any spontaneous attacks of Rita’s in time for you to participate in this year’s events. If it would help, I can assist in creating a training regimen specified to your interests and capabilities that would assist in your goals for this event," Billy volunteered.
“Really? I don’t know, Billy. Every year I get worried that maybe my skills are a little outdated," Jason admits. “But to be honest, I feel like it’s something I have to do on my ownâ€.
“In any case, your experience as a Power Ranger will no doubt help you achieve success. When and if you’re willing, the entire team can assist in your training. Including the girls," Billy adds.
Zack looks at the picture on Jason‘s nightstand of the 5 teens together. “Speaking of the girls--," Zack sees Jason turn to him with a dour look. “--or notâ€.
“It’s getting rather late. I should be getting home so that I can prepare for Ms. Applebee’s English test at the end of the week. I can also get started on outlining a regimen for you to use, should you decide that you’ll accept our assistance," Billy says.
“Yeah, I’ll head out with you. You know we’re here for you if you need us, man," Zack says to Jason.
“Yeah, I know. I’ll see you guys tomorrow," Jason says.
Hours pass and the early part of the night is now very early morning. Jason lies under his blankets unable to sleep as he is deep in thought.
“C’mon, Jase," Kim encourages. “Look, I didn’t tell you the way I felt about what happened so that you could sulk about it. Just don’t push me away like this. Don’t stop being one of my best friends. That’d hurt, like, a million times more. Pleaseâ€
They share an uneasy glance.
“I got to go," Jason says as he turns away from Kim.
“So, that’s it then? You’re just going leave me alone again like this? Again?," Kim says, reflections of anger gleaning in her voice.
Jason is again silent.
“Fine then. Just be careful with that solitude you so desperately need. You’ll only have yourself to blame when you find yourself stuck there. Aloneâ€
Jason rolls over in his bed, and finds him self facing the wall with shelves containing some of his many trophies. He remembers the work he put into earning each and every one. He looks to his nightstand at a picture of him, Zack, Trini, Kim, & Billy. He yawns as he looks beside the picture at his alarm clock. It reads 12:37 a.m., but only for a second before his vision blurs and sleep ultimately sets in.
The Moon.
Rita’s Palace.
Rita sits in a chamber of the Palace, going thru a very thick spell book. Finster enters.
“My Queen, you are still awake," Finster notices.
“And what gave it away, dog face? Let me guess, my eyes are still open?," Rita asks sarcastically.
“But my Queen, you should be getting rest. Your semi-humanoid physiology requires that you--," Finster is interrupted by Rita.
“Can it! Finster you are never to speak on that subject EVER again! Got that?! Besides, I’m busy searching for a spell that’ll help me take down those Power Brats. They’ve thwarted my attacks too many times. I want to see them crumble and the way to do that is to start with the head," Rita says.
“You mean Zordon?," Finster asks.
“No, you mutt!," Rita yells. “Those Rangers would get in my way before I could get to Zordon. I’m going to start with the Red Ranger. He foiled my plan to abduct the Mayor and turn the public at large against the Rangers. For that he will pay!â€
“I see. Then it may be of interest to you that I have recently designed a quite nefarious creature who will prove most useful in an effort to divide the Power Rangers. With the team broken, you will have the Red Ranger all to yourself, with no interruptions," Finster tells his mistress.
“Oh, yes!," Rita shakes her fist. “We can divide that team that Jason is so fond of for their ability to stand unitedâ€.
“Yes, Empress, but the success of this plan would be far greater if you were well rested. You haven’t slept in a month," Finster notes.
Rita yawns. “Oh, all right. I’ll take a brief beauty nap but when I awake I want that monster ready for action!," Rita demands.
“Yes, of course, of course. Now, off to bed you go," Finster hurries Rita along.
“Yeah, yeah. You just better have that thing ready to go as soon as I awake," Rita says as she walks toward the exit.
“As you wish. Good night, my Queenâ€.
Angel Grove High School.
Day.
The final bell of the day excuses the students who are very eager, for several reasons, to leave campus. Billy and Zack walk together thru the halls.
“Well, I did manage to put together a rather complex regimen which Jason might find helpful in his training for the Martial Arts Expo occurring in the coming months," Billy tells his friend.
Kim and Trini join the guys. “Hey, guys," Trini greets.
“Hey ladies," Zack responds. “Billy, I’m sure this regimen you’ve put together would do a lot of good, but I think we need to give Jase some roomâ€.
“Is this about the Expo that’s coming up in a couple months?," Trini asks.
“Yeah. That reminds me, where is Jase?," Zack asks.
“He has Gym class 6th period, remember? His teacher is allowing him to work out at the Youth Center several times a week to prepare for the event," Billy answers.
“Well, we’re headed there anyway, right?," Trini asks. “We can ask if there’s anything we can do to helpâ€.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea. At this point, I think we should just respect his wanting to be alone. For now, at least," Zack answers. He turns to Trini who turns to Kim. Kim is silent.
Trini looks back to Zack and nods. “Come on," Zack says. “The park’s as good a place as any to study for Mrs. Applebee’s test on Fridayâ€.
The Youth Center.
The Gym & Juice Bar.
Jason lays back on a bench press, hard at work lifting weights. Sweat beads litter his forehead as he works hard to maintain his concentration on his fitness, working equally as hard not to concentrate on anything or anyone else.
Rita’s Palace.
Finster’s Workshop
“Finster, you dolt! You let me oversleep! And my monster isn‘t even ready?!," Rita screams. Finster stands beside Goldar at the pottery table where Finster finishes fashioning a small clay item mold.
“I thought it best to let you catch up on rest. In the meantime, I have fashioned a weapon for your new monster. I believe you will be quite pleased with the addition. It will serve to give the monster even more fire power," Finster explains.
“Did you use the resin or the clay?," Rita asks.
“Both, actually. However, I did make it a point to use just a smidgeon more resin than I did with the Pudgy Pig," Finster answers.
Rita moves up to the pottery table. “Is this it?".
“Yes, my Queenâ€.
“It looks strong. I like that. I’m feeling well rested and ready to put it to those Power Pukes. Get it in the Monster-Matic now and set it to high," Rita demands. “I can’t wait to overwhelm them and watch them sufferâ€.
Finster hurriedly places the clay figure on the conveyor, wheels it into the oven, sets it to high, and activates it.
“My Queen," Goldar interjects. “If you want to overwhelm the Rangers, I think it’d be a good idea to send myself and the Putties down alongside the new monster to battle the Power Rangersâ€.
“Goldar, I’ll use your idea when it’s crunch time. In the meantime, shut your snout!," Rita demands.
The machine shoots out smoke as Finster calls Rita’s attention to it. “My Queen. This is King Sphinx," A large blue muscular monster with a pharaoh-like head is produced from the large gray tube. It wields a tall Egyptian style staff.
“How ugly! Finster this is just what I wanted!," Rita exclaims.
“I am pleased that you are pleased, Empress. With the beating of his wings, King Sphinx is able to produce a strong gust of mystical force with the power to displace matter and energy," Finster replies.
Rita smiles with delight. “Now then. I will send down the Putties to soften up those kids. Then we’ll drop the heavy-hitter right on their heads!â€
Angel Grove Park.
Zack’s large SUV pulls into the vacant parking lot.
“Look at this place. More and more people are leaving Angel Grove everyday," Trini says.
“Geez, it’s like ‘The Town That Dreaded Sundown’," Kim remarks as she and the others step out of the car.
“Actually, it’s more like ‘Rumble In Angel Grove’. Look," Zack points out to a group of Putties back-flipping out of thin air.
“Great. Looks like Jason’s not the only one getting ready for a fight," Trini remarks as she and her friends toss their back-packs into the car. The Putty Patrol seizes the four teens who make their way around the vehicle to do battle.
Zack poses at the front, driver’s side of the vehicle. A Putty throws a spinning-heel kick at Zack who jumps back and kips up off of the side of the SUV’s hood, landing on one foot, with the other foot crashing into the Putty’s chest. Another Putty sneaks in from the side with a sidekick to Zack’s ribs.
At the front passenger side of the SUV, Trini stands ready in a fight stance as a Putty comes at her, throwing a punch from each side. Trini blocks each and lifts a knee into the Putty’s stomach, then throws a knife hand chop to the side of it’s neck. It throws a backhand that she ducks, but the Putty isn’t as lucky when she returns the favor with a backhand of her own.
Billy ducks a Putty’s jump kick then swings his arms across it’s face in a double-axe handle strike. Hands still weaved together, Billy swings back at the Putty with another double-axe handle strike that the assailant catches. The Putty then throws a kick into Billy’s stomach, knocking him back-first against the back of Zack’s SUV.
Kim blocks a Putty’s punch and strikes it in the head with a high kick, flooring it. Another Putty lunges at her with a punch that she side steps, leaning straight down as she throws a kick straight up behind her, reaching to the Putty’s face. It stumbles back as Kim grabs it by the arm and pulls it to her, slamming her elbow into it’s face. The Putty stumbles backward to the ground as Kim moves back in a series of back-handsprings.
Trini now stands in front of the SUV. She blocks a Putty’s punch and hits it in the face with a palm-strike, sending it backwards to Zack who jump kicks it in the back, sending it back to Trini who catches one of it’s arms and flips it onto it’s back. She then slams a karate chop down hard onto it’s neck.
Billy blocks a front kick from a Putty then lunges forward with an elbow to it’s chest. Billy retaliates, punching Billy across the face. He spins 180 degrees as the Putty moves behind him. Billy throws a back kick that pushes the Putty backward as Kim comes in from a round-off, jumps high, and lands a back kick to the back of the Putty’s head. The Putty stumbles forward toward Billy who uses a sweep to send it crashing to the ground.
The 4 Rangers perform a signature kata as the squad of fallen Putties that litter the parking lot vanish. The teens convene.
“Man, I should have known better than to expect a Monday to be a good day," Zack remarks.
“I’m sure you didn’t expect a ‘Monday’ to serve as the day you die, either, Black Ranger," speaks a monstrous voice. The Rangers turn to face the creature.
“Actually, I did," Zack replies as he, Kim, Billy, and Trini assemble side by side and assume new fight stances.
“I see. Well, before the day is done, allow me to share with you an accessory of mine," King Sphinx says as he raises his staff.
“Didn’t anyone tell you too many accessories clutter an outfit? Come on, guys. Let’s show this clod how to accessorize," Kim quips.
“It’s Morphin’ Time!," Zack shouts. The 4 Rangers reach behind their backs and draw their morphers. They maneuver the morphers forward and press the triggers.
“Mastodonâ€
“Pterodactylâ€
“Triceratopsâ€
“Saber-Tooth Tigerâ€
The morphers snap open and the coins catalyze an induction of colorful Morphin power that envelops the teens.
“Quite a show," King Sphinx comments as he begins to flap his wings, generating an odd translucent force, accompanied by wind. “But I’m gonna have to put an end to this light show!," The Sphinx’ power rushes the energy charged Rangers, sweeping them backward in streaks of light of their respective colors.
Angel Grove Youth Center.
The Gym & Juice Bar.
Jason sets the barbell back into its holder and sits up on the bench. He wipes sweat from his forehead with his left wrist, where his communicator should be. He has yet to find out the consequences for this action.
“Hey, Jason," a teen enters the gym and waves to Jason as he approaches.
“Hey, Richie. What’s going on?," Jason asks.
“Not too much. Just came by to drop off my work permit with Ernie. I forgot to turn it in with my application. Where are Trini and the others? You guys are like hyenas, you move in packs," Richie asks.
“Aww, I got a lot of training to do for the Martial Arts Expo coming up in a couple months. Kind of needed to do this on my own. What about you? Are you going to be competing?," Jason asks.
“I don’t know. They have that whole weapons mastery exhibition thing and I’m not really good with any kind of weapon," Richie answers.
Jason stands up. “That’s too bad, man. Give it some thought. You can’t stand for much of anything if you don’t give things a try in order to find out where it is you standâ€.
“That’s good advice, Jason. Can I give you a little advice maybe?," Richie asks as he leans in to Jason, as if to tell a secret.
“Sure, man. Go for it," Jason answers.
“Take a shower. You stink," Richie and Jason laugh.
“Yeah, I’m on my way. I’ll see you at school tomorrow, man," Jason departs for the…
Men’s Locker Room.
Jason’s communicator sounds off from within his locker. Unfortunately, Jason isn’t around to hear it. Jason walks in, unlocks his locker, and quickly undresses, throwing his sweaty clothes into his bag and on top of his communicator. He grabs his towel, wraps it around his waist, and hurries off to the shower. The communicator sounds off again, this time muffled under Jason’s clothes. No one is around to hear it anyway.
The Moon.
Rita’s Palace.
“All right!," Rita cries. “We’re getting off to a wicked start here. King Sphinx has done away with the Red Ranger’s Power pals. Now, he is all mine!â€
The Gym & Juice Bar.
Men’s Locker Room.
Jason shuffles back to his locker in a pair of sandals , with a towel around his waist. He opens the locker, takes out his clean clothes and begins to dress. He finishes by tying his shoes, and as he does, hears the muffled sound of his communicator’s alert. He digs thru his dirty clothes and pulls out the communicator.
“Come in, Zordon," Jason says into his activated device as he roams along the locker room aisle’s to see if anyone is around.
“Jason, I am relieved to hear from you. We have an emergency. Please teleport to the Command Center now," Zordon says.
“On my way," Jason puts his morpher in his back pocket, locks his locker and clasps his communicator onto his wrist, then teleports out.
The Command Center.
Jason teleports in. “What‘s up, Zordon? Where are the other Rangers?,"
“Ay Yi Yi, Jason. I’m afraid they are in serious trouble," Alpha blurts out.
“Please turn your attention to the Viewing Globe,," Zordon tells Jason.
Jason turns to see the Rangers facing off with King Sphinx then get done away with in the middle of the transformation.
“Finster has created a monster for Rita by the name of King Sphinx. With its wings, it has the power to displace energy. In this case, King Sphinx has done so with your friends while in the midst of morphing," Zordon explains.
Jason watches with a disturbed look. “No. Zordon, are they okay?"
“I am afraid that at this time, we are uncertain. I am sensing their powers, however, I cannot get a coherent lock on them. As it stands, they exist in an incomplete state of both solid matter and energy. As such, the computer’s are having difficulty with distinguishing their life signs," Zordon answered.
Jason slams his fist beside a computer panel.
“AY Yi Yi, Jason," Alpha moves toward the Ranger. “Please, calm down".
“No. This is my fault. I’m the leader of this team, and look what I’ve done. I took my communicator off and couldn’t be there for them when I should have been; when they needed me. And what’s worse…this could have been avoided if I would have let them be there for me in the first place," Jason says.
“Jason, I understand your dilemma. However, it does not appear that we have lost the Ranger’s yet. The Sphinx’ powers are what has taken them from us," Alpha explains.
“Then maybe by destroying him, I can get them back," Jason surmises.
“I am always hesitant to send a Ranger into the field alone. Unfortunately, it seems we have no other choice," Zordon says.
“No. There is no other choice. There never could be. I have to do this. On my own," Jason says.
“Good luck, Jason," Alpha says.
“Jason, be careful. And may the Power protect you," Zordon bids.
“It’s Morphin’ Time! Tyrannosaurus!â€.
Angel Grove Park.
Red Ranger appears behind King Sphinx in a streak of red light. “All right, creep! Bring my friends back fast or I’ll bring you down hard!," he shouts as he performs a martial arts kata.
“Well, if it isn’t Red Ranger: Guest of honor," King Sphinx says.
“I mean it, fang face! I want my friends back now!," Red Ranger demands.
“No way! You’re over your head in this, Ranger!," King Sphinx shouts as he raises his staff, tense to act.
The Moon.
Rita’s Palace.
Rita cackles with evil glee. “Yes, yes! Time to crush him! Goldar!,"
“Yes, Empress?," Goldar asks, as he appears in a flash of flames on the balcony, startling Finster, Baboo, and Squatt.
“Goldar, it’s crunch time," Rita tells her warrior.
“I understand," Goldar growls. He raises his sword and disappears as quickly as he appeared, in an eruption of flames.
Angel Grove Park.
King Sphinx holds his staff out in front of him and projects several charges of red and orange energy in Red Ranger’s direction. Red Ranger somersaults to the side, narrowly avoiding the blasts as they impact the ground with a shower of sparks.
King Sphinx and Red Ranger lunge at each other with an intense ferocity.
“Power Sword!," Red Ranger slashes down vertically at King Sphinx who high blocks with his staff. The two weapons grind against each other. “Bring my friends back now!â€
“You’re friends are as good as dead. But if you’re this intent on being reunited with them, I’d be happy to oblige!," King Sphinx replies.
Red Ranger throws a front kick into the Sphinx’ stomach, pushing him back. He presses forward with a spinning-heel kick that strikes the monster across the face. Red Ranger moves in, raising his Sword to strike but is denied the opportunity when a fire-based energy attack hits him in the back, causing a shower of sparks as it throws him forward toward the Sphinx who swats him to the ground with his staff in a burst of sparks.
Red Ranger rises to his feet as King Sphinx and Goldar circle him, ready to attack.
“You’re in trouble, Red Ranger. And you have none of your candy-colored pals to help you out this time," Goldar growls as he brandishes his sword.
“I don’t need help taking you out, Goldar. I’ve played you once before," Red Ranger replies.
“You have a knack for presenting yourself as a threat that you fail to impose," Goldar says as he slides his hand over his sword, charging it with energy. He lashes out with the weapon, releasing a blast that strikes Red Ranger in the chest.
Red Ranger rolls across the parking lot, landing on his back just as King Sphinx strikes down at him with his staff. Red Ranger blocks the strike with his Power Sword. He’s loathed to admit it, but Red Ranger is faced with the problem he was warned about. The outcome of which he feels is a result of his own ego.
“So, that’s it then? You’re just going leave me alone again like this? Again?," Kim says, reflections of anger gleaning in her voice.
Jason is again silent.
“Fine then. Just be careful with that solitude you so desperately need. You’ll only have yourself to blame when find yourself stuck there. Aloneâ€
“NO!," Red Ranger throws a high kick that strikes King Sphinx in the forehead, knocking him back, giving the Red Ranger the opportunity to rise to his feet as Goldar moves in.
Goldar strikes at red Ranger who deflects the attack with his sword, then is struck in the side by a side kick from King Sphinx, pushing him back as Goldar releases an optic blast that Red Ranger absorbs into the blade of his sword. He turns and discharges the energy toward the attacking King Sphinx, knocking him back in a shower of sparks as Goldar moves in with a horizontal cut across Red Ranger’s chest.
King Sphinx jump kicks Red Ranger in the side of the helmet, pushing him to the side where Goldar rakes him across the chest with his claws. Red Ranger lands a high kick against Goldar as the Sphinx punches Red Ranger in the lower back, causing him to stumble forward.
Goldar and the Sphinx regroup and cross their weapons, aiming them forward with a massive discharge of red and orange fire-type energy that hits Red Ranger powerfully in the stomach, letting out a shower of sparks as he is thrown backward, over the concrete and into the grass.
Rita’s Moon Palace.
Rita lets out a sickening laugh. “This is it, Finster! My plan is working! Now, for the final step! Magic wand, makes my monster’s grow!,"
The orb on Rita’s wand flashes as she throws it over the balcony and into space. Transverse circular force rolls over the staff as it moves at supernatural speed toward the Earth.
The wand bursts thru the Earth’s atmosphere and lands in the park, causing a tremor as the energy glowing of the wand’s orb passes down the wand, thru the ground and is transmitted to King Sphinx and Goldar. An explosion engulfs them, reaching into the sky. When it dissipates, Goldar and King Sphinx stand tall, but not as they were before. Now they stand taller than the tallest skyscrapers in Angel Grove.
“Aww, man. My problems just got a whole lot bigger. I’m in trouble here," Red Ranger wearily makes his way to his feet and activates his communicator. “Alpha, any luck getting a lock on the others?â€
The Command Center.
“Ay Yi Yi! Jason, we’re still working on it, but it’s difficult with the Ranger’s in a state of energy conversion. That energy is pervasively discorporate. We‘ve managed to slow the rate of discorporation with some of the teleportation unit‘s technology," Alpha explains.
“Jason, listen to me," Zordon begins. “The Power exists in a harmonic amalgamation that each of you have access to with your Power Coins. Use the Power to focus your Ranger energies with that of your teammates. Thru your powers, you must unite with your team. If you can reach out to your friends, they can in turn reach out to you, using your current state of resolved energy form for theirs to synchronize toâ€.
Angel Grove Park.
“I understand, Zordon. I’ll give it a tr--," Red Ranger is interrupted when Goldar releases a large optic blast that impacts the land around him and large bursts of sparks, tossing Red Ranger across the landscape. He tries to get up as King Sphinx fires down on him with his staff, tossing him back even further.
“I…have to…reach out," Red Ranger slowly rises to his feet, using his Power Sword for balance. Red Ranger sticks his Sword into the ground, pulls his coin from his morpher and holds it pressed in between his palms as he concentrates.
Red Ranger closes his eyes and recalls an image of the tumultuous ocean at Stone Canyon Beach Boardwalk.
“I like it out here. There’s a sense of calm. Even when the water doesn’t seem to feel it, I do".
The ground trembles around Red Ranger as the giant King Sphinx and Goldar march toward him.
……Jason sits, fully clothed, at the water’s edge. He watches as the water complies with the wind’s orders. The flow of the water is tumultuous. He finds analogy between the water and his emotions.
Goldar and King Sphinx close in.
“I’ve wanted to be with you for so long. I just never knew how to tell you," Jason confesses.
Kim smiles. “I think you just did,"
The Command Center.
Alpha 5 works at the computers. “Zordon, the other Ranger’s scattered energies are resolving. They are coalescing with the Power Jason is summoningâ€.
“Jason, Goldar and King Sphinx present a threat you and the others have never faced before. There is a higher power each of you can summon. To control it, you must summon strength thru the Power. With that strength, you can combat this threat,†Zordon communicates thru an open comm. link.
Angel Grove Park.
Goldar and King Sphinx prepare their weapons for attack as they move in. Red Ranger stands in a meditative pose; palms together, with his coin in between them.
Particles of black, pink, blue, and yellow energy swarm the parking lot.
“It’s happening. I can feel them, thru the Morphin Grid. Thru the Power. They feel me reaching out to them. I can feel them reaching out to me ,too," Red Ranger says, his eyes closed beneath his helmet as his head remains lowered.
Red Ranger is struck again with the image of the tumultuous ocean. It begins to calm.
Jason stands up and clenches his fists as he stares up into the sky. “I can feel it. In the heavens. Something…… Give me strength," he whispers into the wind.
Red Ranger opens his eyes beneath his helmet as he moves his palms apart. As they do, red Morphin energy generates from his coin, forming a crystal.
The swarming particles of energy in the parking lot comes together in a burst of black, pink, blue, and yellow energy, from which Zack, Kim, Billy, and Trini come running.
Red Ranger looks past the massive legs of the monsters approaching him to see his friends charging behind them. Their morphers are worn over one hand, their power coins in the other. The 4 Rangers slap their coins into their morphers and hold them out before them. They press the triggers and, in a burst of their respective colors, become the Mighty Morphin Power Ranger.
Red Ranger holds his crystal high in the air. “I summon the power of the Tyrannosaurusâ€.
Goldar and King Sphinx stop as they look up to see the sky above them resonate with an intense red light.
Red Ranger reaches up to the sky. “Tyrannosaurus Dinozord Power!,†From the clouds, jumps down a colossal machinated giant. It is the Tyrannosaurus Dinozord. Red Ranger leaps into the air to board it.
“Mastodon Dinozord Power," Zack calls out. Kim does the same.
“Pterodactyl Dinozord Power," Billy follows Zack and Kim’s lead.
“Triceratops Dinozord Power,â€
“Saber-Tooth Tiger Dinozord Power," Trini shouts.
The 4 Rangers leap into the air as 4 more machinated giants enter the scene. Black Ranger lands in the cockpit of the Mastodon Dinozord. The Pterodactyl Dinozord swoops in as Pink Ranger lands inside. Blue Ranger lands in the cockpit of the Triceratops Dinozord, and Yellow Ranger does the same, landing inside the Saber-Tooth Tiger Dinozord.
“Tyrannosaurus, power up!," Red Ranger connects his Power Crystal into the console in the cockpit of the Dinozord. “Rangers, put your hands together and summon your Power Crystal’s, using your coins!â€
The 4 Rangers pull out their coins and hold them between their palms, concentrate, then bring their hands apart, summoning their Power Crystals.
“2-1, Power up!," the 4 teens shout as they connect their Power Crystals to the consoles in their Zord’s cockpits.
“Jason here. You guys on-line?â€
“Zack here. Mastodon Dinozord on-line. This is kickin‘!â€
“Billy here. Triceratops’ systems nominalâ€
“Trini here. Saber-Tooth Tiger, on-lineâ€
“Kim here. Nice stereo!,"
Rita’s Moon Palace.
“No! They’ve linked with the Dinozord’s! Goldar, Sphinx, destroy their Zord’s! That’s an order!," Rita shouts as her wand appears in her hands.
Angel Grove Park.
The Pterodactyl glides in thru the sky, performing in accordance with Pink Ranger’s utilization of the control console.
“Twice the size, and twice as ugly. Goldar, you and your play pal may think your tough because you’re over twice the size, but when it comes down to it, you’re nothing but a bigger target. Activating Ptera Blasts…now!," Pink Ranger activates her Zord’s weapons array, and from the shoulders of the Pterodactyl, she releases streams of blue electrical powers. The blasts hit Goldar and the Sphinx in a burst of sparks.
“I’m going to fillet these Rangers!," Goldar curses.
“We’ll use another combined weapon blast," King Sphinx says.
“Not so fast. You boys have caused enough problems. Time for you to chill!," Black Ranger types into his console, causing the Mastodon to raise its trunk and release jets of ice mist that freeze the monsters legs in place.
“Nice shooting, Zack. Now allow me to deal with this menace. Firing Tricera-Hooks!," Blue Ranger shouts.
The 2 silver horns atop the head of the Triceratops tank Dinozord fire off, chains trailing behind them. The grappling hooks hit their marks, winding tightly around the monster’s weapons.
“Raising Tail Cannon," Blue Ranger lifts a handle on his console, as the tail of the Triceratops lifts from it’s back. “Firing Tail Spark Cannon…now!,"
“Right, Billy! I’m with ya’!," Yellow Ranger activates the tail blaster on her Saber-Tooth Tiger Zord. It’s tail lifts into position. “Tiger Beam, now!â€
From the 2 barrels of the Triceratops tail stream a volley of explosive spark blasts, as the Saber-Tooth Tiger Zord unleashes a rush of energy. The two attacks strike Goldar and King Sphinx in a harsh shower of sparks, releasing them from their ice traps. The 2 monsters stumble backwards before they are hit in the back by a pair of metallic arms. The monsters turn to find themselves facing the Tyrannosaurus Dinozord.
“You should’ve have known better than to come here looking for trouble!," Red Ranger shouts from the cockpit of his Zord. The Tyrannosaurus spins, lashing out with its tail, striking the 2 monsters across the chests. The monsters tumble to the side across the larger grassy landscape of the west end of Angel Grove Park.
“Rangers," Zordon’s voice comes in over the consoles in their Zord’s cockpits. “Just as your powers have the capacity to unite, so do your Zord’s. Bring them together, and you will unite to form a higher powerâ€
“Awesome!," Black Ranger exclaims.
“Let’s do it!," Pink Ranger encourages.
“Megazord Attack-Tank Mode formation sequence activated," Red Ranger announces as he types into his console.
“Attack-Tank Mode has been initiated," the computer states.
The Triceratops and Saber-Tooth Tiger’s tail lower into their bodies as the 2 Zord’s roll backwards toward the Tyrannosaurus, which kneels down for it’s knees to lock into the back ends of the 2 Zord’s.
“This is amazing! We seem to know how to operate these things," Yellow Ranger exclaims.
“Affirmative! Thru our powers, it’s like second nature to us," Blue Ranger notes.
“Keep your eyes on the Zack-man! I’m heading in all kinds of directions," Black Rangers says as the Mastodon comes apart, its legs unraveling from within the Zord’s body as the head separates.
The Mastodon locks in around the back of the Tyrannosaurus, extending its legs forward, adorned at the ends with cannon’s. The Pterodactyl lands behind the Tyrannosaurus, standing atop the Mastodon Zord, whose head locks into the chest of the Tyrannosaurus.
“Megazord, Attack-Tank Mode engaged," the machine’s computer voice declares.
“Hit ‘em together!," King Sphinx shouts. He crosses his weapon with Goldar’s sword, releasing a massive energy blast at the Attack Tank. The blast hits the Mastodon face with a huge burst of sparks, rocking the Tank.
“Ha! Mastodon shield’s strength still holding," Black Ranger says proudly after looking over the computer console in front of him.
“Structural integrity down 4%. It appears the Mammoth Shield took a good portion of the blast," Blue Ranger notes.
“All right, we’ve got to end this. Let’s try giving him a taste of Morphin power," Red Ranger says.
“Interesting idea, Jason. We can transmit energy from our Power Crystal’s and redistribute it thru our united Zords," Blue Ranger notes.
“Let’s do it!," Red Ranger orders.
“Right!," Blue and Yellow Ranger raise a fist in compliance.
“Morphin!," Pink and Black Ranger nod in affirmation. The 5 Rangers reach to their consoles and fire. The Rangers respective energies fire from the eyes of each of their Zord’s and strike the charging King Sphinx and Goldar with a shower of sparks, pushing them back as King Sphinx drops his staff.
The giant staff falls toward the ground. Upon impact, it smashes thru trees and cracks the ground beneath it.
“Let’s finish this! Activating Megazord Battle-Mode!," Red Ranger shouts.
“Megazord sequence has been initiated," the computer states. The Pterodactyl flies off as the Mastodon head lifts away and the Tyrannosaurus stands up on the Triceratops and Saber-Tooth Tiger whose heads lift to form feet.
The Mastodon’s stretched out legs roll back, becoming replaced by fists. The chest of the Tyrannosaurus opens, as it’s face lowers into the open chest. The chest piece rises back to position as the Pterodactyl swoops in. It turns, folds it’s wings in, and locks over the chest as the remaining head of the Megazord opens up.
“Megazord Battle-Mode engaged," the computer says.
“No matter!," King Sphinx shouts as he picks up his staff.
“We’ll peel you apart!," Goldar curses. King Sphinx and Goldar leap into the air and fire blasts from each of their weapons. The energies hit the Megazord in the chest with a burst of sparks.
“Hey, watch the paint job!," Pink Ranger yells. The 2 monsters come down at the Megazord, bringing their weapons in at it.
“Mammoth Shield!," Black Ranger engages the shield. The head of his Zord appears in the Megazord’s hand as he raises it, blocking the 2 weapons. “Chew on this!," Black Ranger hits more buttons and the Mammoth Shield releases green optic blasts that knock the monster’s weapons into the air.
Goldar and King Sphinx jump up and catch their weapons, then turn in mid-air, crossing their weapons at the Megazord.
Before they can fire, Red Ranger takes action. “Power Sword Summon!"
Much like the Tyrannosaurus Dinozord did itself, the Megazord’s sword drops down from the clouds above. The giant sword slashes the 2 monsters as it drops down, knocking them out of the air in a shower of sparks. The Power Sword stabs into the ground and the Megazord pulls it loose as the 2 monsters rise to their feet. The Megazord lashes out with its sword, cutting across the temple of King Sphinx as sparks blast out from his eye.
Goldar strikes vertically toward the Megazord who blocks with its sword in a horizontal position. The Megazord lifts its right leg into Goldar’s stomach. The upturned teeth of the Saber-Tooth Tiger hit Goldar, throwing a shower of sparks as a result of the kick.
“Cranial Blast, now!," Red Ranger shouts.
“Right!," the other 4 Rangers comply.
The Megazord releases a flow of electrical energy from the zenith of its head, knocking Goldar to the ground.
“We’re gonna have to do this one at a time. You’re up, ugly!," Red Ranger shouts as the Megazord turns to face King Sphinx.
“No!," King Sphinx yells. The Megazord’s eyes glow as it lifts its sword high into the air. Intense heat emanates from the blade as it glows.
“You’ve had it!," Jason cries out.
The Ranger’s maneuver their arms, signaling the destruction of the monster as the Megazord brings the energized blade down, cutting thru the Sphinx and igniting it with the accumulated energy. Power bleeds out into the air as the dying Sphinx falls back onto the ground. The Power detonates the monsters body; simultaneously eradicating it’s threat.
“All right! We did it!," Pink Ranger shouts with excitement.
“Now, it’s your turn," Red Ranger pilots the Megazord as it turns to face Goldar.
“Another time, Rangers!," Goldar lifts his sword into the air and disappears in an eruption of flames.
“Oh no. Goldar got away," Yellow Ranger remarks.
“This time," Red Ranger replies.
Rita’s Moon Palace.
“You call yourself a warrior?!," Rita shouts angrily at Goldar who is down on one knee before her. “We had the Red Ranger in our grasps and you let him get away!â€
“His friends reappeared out of nowhere. It was Finster’s monster that fail--," Goldar is stopped when he is struck on the head by Rita’s wand.
“Finster! I want to talk to you! NOW!," Rita heads for Finster’s Workshop.
Angel Grove High School
The Track.
Zack and Jason run around the track as Billy stands at a certain point, monitoring with a stopwatch. Kimberly watches from a seat in the empty bleachers. Trini walks up toward the top of the bleachers to join her.
“Hey Kim," Trini takes a seat beside her friend.
“Hiâ€.
“What are you doing up here by yourself?," Trini asks.
“I want to be here to support Jason. But I’m just keeping a safe distance," Kim replies.
“Is that what you feel like the best thing to do is?," Trini asks.
“Kind of. Yeah. There’s that whole…‘issue’ Jason and I are having. It might not be there if we just settle for being friends. The last time I tried to deal with our ‘issue’ it only made everything I was afraid of happening actually happen. That hurt too much. And when I think about whether it hurt Jason too, it hurts even more. If letting go of everything else to keep our friendship is the only thing I can have, then I’ll have to settle for it," Kim answers.
“I’m not going to push any issues. I just want to see you, the both of you, happy," Trini says.
“Yeah. I do to," Kim says rather blankly, as though her mind is elsewhere. It is.
“Are you cold?," Jason asked.
“A little. Yeah," Kim answered.
Jason…wraps his black sweater around Kim’s shoulders.
Kimberly watches Jason and Zack run around the track. Her own mind races as well. The images come per force as she lets them play. Lets them flow out savory; almost a sugary confection. As she feared, though, it all just falls away.
“No, Kim. I do care. Not caring, that’s your department. I remember what I said Kim. I also remember what you said, too. You said that if you didn’t do something, if you didn’t act, you’d lose everything. You said you weren’t willing to lose someone you love. You said you were willing to stand up against your fears. If you have any care in your heart for me you wouldn’t let me stand here alone. And if you meant what you said back then, you wouldn’t be afraid be with me now. To stand with me now. No matter what side of the line I stand onâ€
“Kim. Kimberly?," Trini manages to receive Kim’s attention once more. “No matter what happens, you know you and he will always be friends, right?â€
Jason sits in a dark red Hummer and honks the horn. “Let’s get this show on the road, boys and girls".
Kim is surprised to see Jason outside of class. She looks to Trini.
“Remember what we talked about?," Trini asks. “Friends".
Kim nods. “Best of friends".
Kim returns to the somber, real world. She sighs. “Best of friendsâ€.
THE END
