Ice Ixa
Lurker
Chapter 11: A Guest Arrives
[Goseiger 13. 0:03-0:47]
Longhorn turned, “Are you sure I have the power to win?†He scratched his face as Vrak took steps towards him.
“Correct,†he held up a pouch, “With these.†Longhorn took grip of the pouch and drew out a red seed-like object, observing it.
“This will work, right?†He poured a number of them back into his pouch.
“Correct,†Vrak said.
Vrak turned suddenly and took a green energy blast right to his body, knocking Longhorn aside and bringing Vrak to his knees.
“Vrak!†Malkor shouted. Vrak remained in a bowed position. “You let Clawhate go to his doom without telling me what he was planning?†Malkor demanded.
Vrak turned his bow, “I…did.†Longhorn came and bowed beside him. “Longhorn will make up for it,†Vrak said, “He will be just as good as Clawhate.â€
Malkor turned, “You know nothing about what Clawhate meant,†Malkor growled, pointing his axe at Vrak.
Vrak just bowed his head, followed by Longhorn.
[End Sentai footage]
The Rangers sat together at one of the local businesses; a smoothie café. They sat together at a rounded table in the corner, each of them with a drink.
“Well guys, we did it,†Troy said, lifting his drink up in celebration, “One down.â€
“How many more to go, though?†Jake asked.
“At least four,†Noah said, “Those two new guys, Vrak, and their leader.â€
“We can beat them,†Gia said, “We proved something yesterday. We proved that we’re strong, and that we don’t give up.â€
Emma nodded, “That’s right. We’ll win, and we’ll protect the Earth.â€
“I just hope that the Phantom Ranger recovers enough energy soon,†Noah said, “It’s hard, watching him struggle through some of this stuff.â€
Troy nodded. He had offered Troy all of the energy he had left to be able to fight again. No matter how much Troy needed a boost, the Phantom Ranger was so much worse off…
“He needs our help,†Troy said.
“I don’t know if we can help him,†Noah said, “We don’t even know what he is. Is he a human in a suit? Is he a machine? We…we just don’t know.â€
“The way he folds up in his Knight Mode isn’t human,†Emma said.
“He refused to tell us,†Jake muttered.
“Let’s assume he’s a machine,†Noah said, “The evidence points that way…but why is he still so weak? If he was a machine, he should be able to gain energy from other sources, or rebuild his armor, or…something.â€
Troy nodded, “You’d think.â€
“Maybe his energy source isn’t something the Earth has,†Gia said, “Assuming he’s a robot.â€
“That could be,†Noah said, “But there should be something we could do.â€
“We should look into it,†Troy said, “He’s saved us, he gave us the power to fight, he gave us so much. It’s our turn to repay him.â€
“Maybe one of the other Rangers could help us,†Noah offered, “We could find Casey and Zack…â€
“No!†Jake interjected, slamming his fist on the table, almost knocking over his drink. Noah, sitting beside him, picked his up quickly to avoid a spill.
They just looked at him, Gia finally voicing what they wall thought, “Why?â€
“Um…well…you guys don’t know Zack like I do,†he said, “I’d rather not…â€
“Too bad,†Gia said, “Get over it, we need him.â€
In actuality, Jake didn’t care if Zack came back or not. He was a pretty cool guy, when all was said and done. But Casey…he didn’t like the bond Casey and Gia had.
“First we have to figure out how to contact them, right?†Emma asked.
“Yeah…good point,†Troy admitted.
Jake let out a sigh of relief.
There was a beeping heard from around the table. Each one of them drew out their Morphers and listened.
“Rangers,†the Phantom said. They all looked around to make sure their Morphers were hidden from view of anyone around, and they weren’t being listened in on.
“Go on,†Troy said.
“There’s an insectoid attacking a construction site. Teleport there when ready.â€
Troy looked at the others and they all rose from the table at once and headed out. They left the mall and headed behind the building. Once out of sight they activated their Morphers, teleporting in their colors and heading off to meet the enemy.
Longhorn simply walked through the construction site. People started to panic and scream and run. He didn’t have to do anything; he just had to be there.
He scratched his chin, “Well…that’s pretty effective…,†he had to admit.
“Stop right there!†Troy shouted. Red and pink wind slashed at the ground next to him.
[Goseiger 13. 3:21-5:37]
Longhorn stood and looked to see the two Sky Rangers standing beside each other. He lifted his hand up and made a gesture in their direction, “Good, you guys are here.†He folded his arms, “Didn’t keep me waiting.â€
Noah, Jake and Gia ran to get next to Troy and Emma. “You were waiting for us?†Noah questioned.
“Why?†Jake questioned, pointing at the monster.
Longhorn unfolded his arms and gestured towards them, “Come get me.â€
Noah stepped forward, “I’ll take the first shot,†he said, “Shark Bowgun!†he loaded his card and slammed the Morpher closed.
“Water…,†Longhorn muttered, looking at his pouch. He plunged his hand in, “Easy.†He held a blue seed between his fingers. He put it in his mouth just as Noah fired on him.
A blue aura came out of his chest, firing the same type of shots that the Shark Bowgun did. They took out Noah’s shot and then struck him in the chest, throwing him back.
The others ran to his aid, “Noah!†they called.
Longhorn’s chest stopped glowing. Emma moved to help Noah while Jake got up and walked towards the monster, taking his Morpher from the side of his belt. “I’ll get you!†he said as he loaded his Zord head card.
“Land, got it,†Longhorn said, taking a black seed as Jake loaded the Zord head onto his sidearm. Longhorn put the seed in his mouth as Jake charged his shot.
“Snake Venom!†he shouted, spinning and dropping, shooting his charged shot.
An energy projection came from Longhorn’s chest in the shape of a snake, and then shot forward, slamming into Jake’s shot. It overpowered Jake’s and struck him in the chest, sending him flying back to the others.
“He copied us again…,†Noah said.
Longhorn stood there, laughing.
“Try this!†Troy said, loading his weapon card. He took grip of his Dragon Sword as it appeared.
“Sky powers? Ok,†Longhorn said. He put a red seed into his mouth, “Thanks Vrak…â€
Troy leapt forward while Longhorn threw his arms aside. A sword appeared out of his chest, which he promptly took grip of. It was a blue copy of Troy’s sword; the same that Vrak had used.
Troy flipped around in the air and yelled, giving an energized slash.
Longhorn had no trouble catching the blade against his, to Troy’s surprise. “That sword…â€
Longhorn pushed Troy’s sword away and slashed him across the chest twice. Troy drew his arm back and attempted to thrust, but Longhorn parried and swung his sword out, and then slashed him again.
Troy was pushed back, and then took another slash, being thrown completely back.
“Troy!†Emma called, running to his side.
“He keeps copying us…,†Gia said.
Longhorn twirled his sword around, “You guys can’t touch me!†he laughed. “Vrak has given me all I need to destroy you!†he laughed while patting his pouch. He drew his sword up, “Come on, try me!†he shouted. He swung his sword out, then down, sending two energy slashes out at the team.
Explosions tore around the team. They stood no chance, going down with ease. Troy’s sword flew into the air, landing in front of him as they went down. Noah remained on his knees, but everyone else was on the ground. Noah fell.
Longhorn laughed at them through the smoke. “Is that it?†he laughed.
Troy tried to pick himself up. Jake dragged himself, “I’ll get you!†he shouted.
“He’s…so good…,†Noah muttered. “We have to get that bag!â€
“What should we do?†Emma asked.
“We’ll just go right for him!†Troy said. He opened his Morpher and drew a card. He loaded Compress Thunder and closed the Morpher.
“That won’t work…,†Longhorn said. He reached into his pouch and dug around. And then frantically. “What? I don’t have that one? No!â€
Troy thrust his Morpher up with a shout. A red beam shot upwards, forming a stormcloud filled with angry red lightning.
“Where…where are you? Vrak? Where is it?†Longhorn shouted, casting his sword aside to dig.
“Compress Thunder!†Troy shouted, thrusting his Morpher down.
Red lightning shot down on top of Longhorn’s head, destroying the ground around him, causing explosions to erupt. Longhorn was tossed out of the chaos and hit some of the rocky surface that had been pushed out of the way by the construction crew.
“You got him!†Emma told Troy, patting him on the shoulder. Jake fell, using Gia for support. “He can’t copy Compress Thunder!â€
On the ground, Longhorn threw an arm out, “I didn’t know you had that…â€
[End Sentai footage]
“Alright,†Gia said, “I doubt he can stop the Tiger Spirit either!â€
“Let’s go!†Troy said.
As the Rangers started to run forward, a blast struck the ground in front of them. They slowed to avoid being hit, and saw Vrak standing beside Longhorn, clad in his clawed armor.
“Come,†Vrak told Longhorn, “We’re going.â€
Longhorn nodded and came to his feet. Vrak grabbed his shoulder and they were both gone in an instant.
“Any idea how he can do that?†Troy asked the Phantom Ranger as the team stood in the base.
“I don’t know,†their mentor admitted.
“He ate something,†Noah said, “That’s how he did it. Bu it doesn’t explain the how of it.â€
“I think the best question is how they were able to nullify our powers so perfectly,†Gia said.
Noah nodded, “Yeah. He even copied Jake’s snake attack! Hitting us with something similar is one thing, but they were copies.â€
“I don’t know,†the Phantom Ranger said.
“…where do our powers come from?†Emma asked.
“What?†he questioned.
“Where do they come from? Is it possible that they were able to gain access to them, or something?â€
“No,†the Phantom Ranger said, “These powers come from the Zords, and their bonds with the Earth, the planet they’ve come to serve.â€
“So, does that mean the aliens might have some of the other survivors?†Jake asked.
“Possibly, but doubtful,†the Phantom answered, “Besides, they’d need to form a bond with this Earth, but the rest of the Zords would have known if they were here.â€
“Then how was it able to do that?†Troy questioned.
“I don’t know,†the Phantom Ranger answered, shaking his head, “I’m sorry, Rangers.â€
“It’s fine,†Troy said, “We’ll get through this, somehow.â€
As the Rangers left the Phantom alone in the base, he spoke to himself, “That monster has yet to fight me.â€
“Thanks for the help,†Vrak told Rots, standing in the slime-filled ship that Rots and his team had arrived in.
“It was no trouble,†he answered, “Clawhate never even realized the power we had sent to him.â€
“Yes, those dark energy blasts,†Vrak said, “Poor fool, must have thought it was the Zombats amplifying his powers, or something.â€
“And then the blasts managed to copy the Rangers powers, and we made the seeds,†Rots laughed. “Did they work as planned?â€
“Yes,†Vrak said, “Except he was exposed against a thunder attack.â€
“They found one weakness,†Rots said, “The seeds should hold out.â€
“Unless more powers escaped copying,†Vrak said.
“No,†Rots said, “It should be fine. And if not…well, we’ll use our powers again and nullify the Ranger’s attacks.†He thumped his staff against the ground a few times, “As long as I have this, I can keep it up.â€
“Excellent,†Vrak said before taking his leave.
As the Rangers sat in class the next day, being lectured on Napoleon’s defeat in Russia, the Phantom Ranger picked up a scan. Longhorn had returned.
The Lion Zord head flew around him, letting out a growl. The Phantom shook his head, “No, we’re not telling them,†he said, picking up his Morpher from a stone table, the same one which held the Power Axe. “This is my fight now.â€
Longhorn was walking along in an above ground parking garage, still wielding his copied sword. He tapped it against a cement pillar a few times and then shrugged. “Might as well get to work…â€
He turned and lifted his sword up, then lowered it and shook his head. He drew it back, wielding it like a baseball bat. Yes, this would work. He was going to slam it into this car and send it flying out into the city.
“This’ll get their attention!†he laughed.
Before he could swing his sword, an energy blast slammed into his hands, forcing him to drop it. He turned and looked to see the Phantom Ranger in his Knight Mode, firearm up.
“You’re different,†Longhorn said. He picked up his sword and approached the newcomer, “I’ll take you down too!â€
“You can’t beat me,†the Phantom said, lifting his firearm again before engaging the blade.
The two ran at each other and crossed swords. The Phantom Ranger knew he had to end this quickly; he probably didn’t have the strength for a long fight. He shoved the sword back and delivered a kick into Longhorn’s chest to knock him into the pillar.
Longhorn drove his sword forward before the Phantom Ranger could strike. He dodged back and engaged the firearm, shooting at Longhorn, who ducked and ran behind pillars and cars to avoid taking hits.
He stopped and looked around. Where was Longhorn?
The monster came out from his side, tackling him. The Phantom Ranger let out a grunt and lost his sword. He was slammed into a pillar, and then took a series of punches to his chest before being pushed away and slashed by Longhorn a few times, all the while the monster laughed.
Vrak stepped out from behind one of the pillars farther down, clad in his brown armor. He smiled as he watched Longhorn fight. “Time for part two…â€
As the lecture at school continued, the fire alarm suddenly went off.
“I’m so glad to hear that,†Jake said, getting up quickly.
“It’s actually an interesting lecture,†Gia told him.
“How?†he questioned.
“You don’t find it fascinating how such a powerful army was destroyed by the environment and weather?†Noah questioned.
Jake just shrugged.
“Considering the fight we have ahead of us, you may want to pay attention,†Gia said.
“Oh, I’m sure it’s going to go all ‘War of the Worlds’ on us and a virus is going to wipe out the aliens…,†Jake muttered.
As they went down the hall with the rest of the classes, screams permeated the area. They were coming from up ahead. A teacher ran and shouted to go the other way. There was mass confusion; wasn’t this just a fire drill?
Coming from behind the man were a group of Stingers, wielding their blades. They lifted their weapons, preparing to fire.
Troy and Emma managed to slip their Morphers out and load cards quickly. They slammed them shut and in the confusion managed to get them thrust forward. Wind tore around the students and into the Stingers, throwing them down the hall.
Gia grabbed Jake and pulled him into the closest classroom. Noah motioned to Emma and Troy and brought them inside as well.
“We’ve got to stop them,†Troy said.
“Should we Morph?†Jake asked.
The Stingers had already rushed down the hall and seen them in the room. One swung, but Troy caught its wrist and punched it twice before kicking it back.
“No time,†he said, jumping forward and punching another one.
The others hurried into the hall. Nobody was around, at least.
Gia used the training Casey had given her, using a flurry of strikes into one before going into another, giving them strong blows, infused with bits of her spirit energy.
Jake ducked one’s swing and rammed his shoulder into it. He then followed up with a knee, turning that knee strike into a straight kick back into another Stinger.
Noah ducked one’s swing and got behind it. He grabbed at its throat with one arm and its arm with the other. He managed to aim the Stinger’s weapon at another Stinger and forced it to fire multiple times until the other one went down, and then focused on changing targets.
Emma ducked one and rammed her knee into it. She pushed it back and jumped up, giving it a front kick. She landed and twisted into a side kick to take it down.
“There’s got to be a reason for this!†Troy said.
“They know we go here,†Gia said, “I think we’ve figured that out because of that bee monster.â€
“I think they were planning on trying to get us when we were vulnerable,†Noah said. “Or maybe the aliens figured we wouldn’t Morph if people were around, and we’d keep our identities secret.â€
“Well, whatever it is, we have to protect our school!†Emma said.
“Right,†Troy said, lifting his Morpher, “Phantom Ranger?â€
Nothing.
“Don’t summon,†Troy said, “We might get caught with weapons we can’t explain.†He picked up one of the fallen blades from a Stinger and ducked one’s strike. He slashed it back across the chest and then punched it down.
The others picked up Stinger weapons as well, shooting or slashing through them until the attack stopped; they were all destroyed.
Troy lifted his Morpher again, “Phantom Ranger? It’s Troy, come in! Nothing!†he lowered his Morpher, “Something’s wrong.â€
“Then we should go,†Gia said.
Noah nodded, “School can wait.â€
“Never thought I’d hear you say that,†Jake admitted.
“The world comes first,†Emma said.
Troy looked around and then more Stingers came down the hallway. He was ready to bring his team back into the fight when another student came out and kicked one back, knocking it into a few more and disorienting them. He was fast, throwing in rapid punches and knee strikes, throwing a few into each other.
He turned to look at the five, and they realized they didn’t know him. “Who are you?†Troy asked.
“A friend,†he stated, then looked back at the Stingers, “Trust me, I can handle this. Go…Rangers.â€
“But we’re not…,†Jake said.
“I don’t care,†he said, “Go!â€
Troy then ushered them into the classroom. They teleported out to the command center. It was the only place they could go until the Phantom Ranger re-routed them.
Noah moved to his console immediately, “I’ll see what I can do,†he said, “I’ve almost got a lock on the Phantom Ranger…â€
“Hurry,†Troy said, bringing his panel up, “It looks like he’s in trouble.â€
“Just redirecting the teleporters to his location. Got it,†he said, “Ok, time to go.â€
And once more they teleported.
The Phantom Ranger rolled across the ground. His Knight form flickered for a moment before fading. Longhorn laughed and approached him, tapping his sword against his shoulder. “You’re too weak…â€
A series of blasts struck the ground at Longhorn’s feet. He stumbled and saw the Rangers running for him, sidearms drawn.
“Get away from him!†Emma called.
“Time to go…,†he said, turning to run.
Noah fired, shooting the sword out of Longhorn’s hand. He shook his hand and growled before jumping out of the open side of the building.
“Will you be ok?†Emma asked the Phantom.
He nodded, “Go after him…â€
“Let’s go!†Troy said, running towards the edge with the others.
[Goseiger 13. 13:36-14:02]
The Rangers stood in a line. Noah lifted his right wrist into his left hand, while Jake stepped forward. “Time to take him down!†Jake said. He flicked his wrist and ran forward ahead of the others.
Longhorn stood farther down the plaza from them, ready. Jake jumped and punched, but he span aside, only to be confronted by Troy, Gia and Noah. “Do you think rushing me will work?†Longhorn questioned, throwing a punch and twisting around to avoid taking hits. Nothing was connecting on either side.
Longhorn rolled aside and came up to his knees, “You fools…†He lifted a red seed into his mouth. Jake and Gia went in for a punch, but he had his sword again and blocked their punches. Noah came into the fight, but was evaded. Jake took a slash, and then Gia.
He swung down on Noah, who went to his knees and caught the sword between his hands.
“Got him!†he shouted.
Longhorn struggled, trying to get his weapon free. He didn’t realize Jake and Gia were leaping behind him, weapons high in the air, coming down onto his back.
As Longhorn came forward, Noah thrust his leg up and cast him over. Longhorn rolled across the plaza, sword still in hand.
[End Sentai footage]
Longhorn came to a knee, “No…I have to get out of here…,†he muttered, turning and running.
“After him!†Troy shouted, running ahead of the others.
Longhorn looked back, but continued to run. He ran right back into the parking garage and started to try to go up, but was shot in the back by Jake. Longhorn fell, giving the Rangers a chance to catch up to him.
Longhorn came up to his feet, looking at the five Rangers before him. He backed away, “Come on…,†he growled, eating a red seed to summon his sword again. “I’ll defeat you guys!â€
“Look,†Troy said, taking a step towards him, “You can cancel and counter our attacks. But…that’s only if we use them. Yeah, you’re handy with that sword, but if we just fight you, we’ve got you.â€
“I don’t think so,†he said, lifting his sword, “Remember the damage I did to you, fighting sword to sword?â€
Troy clenched his fist. He was a fencer, he was skilled, and yet this monster who wielded a copy of his blade managed to defeat him. He took a breath and flexed his hand.
“That’s why we’re doing something else,†Gia said, stepping beside Troy.
“And what would that be?†Longhorn questioned, lifting his sword in her direction.
“Just watch,†Gia said as a yellow aura came around her body.
Longhorn was frantic, digging into his pouch, “But you didn’t use a card!†he yelled.
“That’s right,†Gia said, thrusting her arms forward. “Tiger Spirit!†she shouted. The yellow spirit animal smashed into Longhorn, sending him flying back into a wall. He slid down and picked up his dropped sword, clutching to it tightly like it was a lifeline.
“What was that?†Longhorn shouted.
Jake was atop him, leaping and swinging down his Power Axe. Longhorn barely dodged to the side. As Jake regained his footing, he turned and sent out a shaky side kick. It connected, sending Longhorn back, where Noah was glowing blue, ready to use a spin attack again, and Emma was reaching for a card.
Longhorn took a slash towards Emma. “Look out!†Noah shouted, his energy fading; he had no time to use it. He thrust his arm out to try to stop the attack from connecting. He’d rather take a wounded arm than have Emma take a direct hit, or any member of the team, rather.
There was a spark of green, and suddenly Noah was holding a sword in his hand, which he realized quickly enough. He swung it up to block Longhorn’s sword, holding it tight.
“What? How did you do that?†Longhorn shouted.
“I don’t know…,†Noah muttered.
Emma moved around Noah, “Thanks!†she said. Before she could get her card slotted into her Morpher, a spark of white appeared in the air before her, forming into a dagger. She looked at it for a moment, and then put her Morpher onto her belt and took grip of the weapon. She swung the blade into Longhorn’s side, sending him rolling away.
Noah looked at his Samurai Saber, and Emma at the Drago Sword. “Where did these come from?†Emma asked quietly.
“I think this was Cam’s…,†Noah said. “I don’t know about that one, though.â€
Lonhorn held his wounded chest. He turned to see Jake swing the Power Axe into him, catching him across the chest. Then a second slash, which turned into a blast to the chest from the Axe’s secondary mode.
Longhorn, damaged and lying on the ground, looked up to see Troy.
“I’m the only one without anything special,†Troy said, brandishing his sword, “Try me.â€
Longhorn picked his weapon up and shouted. He swung wildly, but Troy dodged back with expert skill, avoiding every blow. He drew his sword up and stepped into one attack, keeping Longhorn’s sword high. He twisted his sword to bring Longhorn’s down, and then drew back and thrust, smashing his blade into Longhorn’s chest, sending him a few steps back.
Jake stood by Troy and rested an arm on his shoulder. He held the Power Axe out, “Be my guest,†he said.
Troy passed his sword from his right to his left hand, and then took the Power Axe into his right. He rushed forward as Jake removed his arm.
Longhorn was panicked. He was looking around, and then lifted his sword when Troy got close. Troy swung his Dragon Sword up to catch Longhorn’s, and then he shoved it away, leaving the monster open. He shouted, swinging the Power Axe down, and then back up at an angle, sending him rolling away.
“Let’s finish him!†Troy said, holding his sword out.
As Longhorn rose, the Megaforce Blazer was aimed right for him, wielded by Troy, Noah and Emma. Jake had the Power Axe in its cannon mode, and Gia was glowing yellow for her Tiger Spirit.
“No…,†is all Longhorn managed to say.
The three attacks flew for him and threw him out the far side of the building, out to the ground outside. The Rangers gave chase, ready for him to grow. They leapt down and stood before the sparking Longhorn, drawing their Morphers.
“Tsk,†Vrak lifted his hand, ready to summon his Zombats. The entire ship suddenly shook, knocking him off balance. “What was that?†he shouted.
“Vrak!†Malkor’s voice boomed as he came through the corridor.
“Admiral!†Vrak said, “Do you know what that was?â€
He lifted his axe towards the prince, “No, but I imagine it involves you…â€
“Why would you say that?†he asked, taking a few steps back.
“Before you came onboard my ship, I never had to worry about anything. I could complete and operation and be on my way. Now I have another ship docked with mine, soldiers I’ve never seen before, and I’ve lost my right hand! All because of you!â€
There were footsteps coming down the corridor, behind Vrak. He turned as the Admiral directed his gaze. There were three figures approaching.
One of them was a mechanical woman. Beside her was a large, white-armored machine, clearly not female. They stopped, and the third figure came into view.
“Prince Vrak,†she said.
She was green and black, with an orange visor over her eyes, and a pale white face. She had a projection coming out of each shoulder, with cords coming from them attached to her arms.
“Hexatrix,†Vrak said, “Why are you here? Did Father send you?â€
Malkor stood in silence as he watched. Of course, it involved Vrak.
“No,†she said, “I detected a use of my dark energy weapon,†she told him, “I came to investigate the results.â€
“It was unable to destroy the Rangers,†Vrak said, “But combined with Rots and his magic, I was able to make copies of the Ranger powers to convert into seed form.â€
“Interesting,†she said, “I will look into it. Where are these Rangers who were too strong for my dark energy weapon?†she questioned.
“On Earth,†Vrak said.
“Then I leave for the Earth at once.†She turned to look at the machines, “I’m sure you know these two. Meching, Mecharess, the leaders of the machine military.â€
“I do,†Vrak said.
“Their forces are now here to assist,†she said, walking away and leaving the two machines with Vrak and Malkor.
Malkor looked at Vrak. He held the gaze for a few moments, said nothing, and then left Vrak with the machines.
“So, where did these things come from?†Jake asked as they sat around in the command center. It was empty except for the five Rangers; the Phantom Ranger was gone. He picked up the Drago Sword and turned it over in hand.
“I still think this is from Cam,†Noah said, gripping the katana.
“But why couldn’t you use it until now?†Gia asked, “And it’s not like this was something strenuous that summoned it. It probably would have appeared during the fight with Clawhate otherwise.â€
“I don’t know,†Noah said, “Maybe because I was protecting Emma? Or because I was using the spin he taught me, and then had to cut it short? I don’t know.â€
Emma held her hand out to Jake. He placed the weapon into it, so she turned it over in her hands, “I have no idea where this could have come from…â€
“We’ll figure it out,†Gia said. She looked at Troy. Their leader was being completely silent.
“Troy?†Emma asked, setting the weapon on the table beside the Power Axe.
“Hm?†he looked at all of them, “Oh, nothing.â€
“You’re distant,†Gia said, “What’s going on?â€
“…I’m your leader,†he told all of them, “I don’t know how much leadership ability I bring to all of you, but I do bring my sword ability. Vrak overpowered me in a duel, but…he’s a commander, so that’s different. But when this guy copied my sword and overpowered me? I…â€
“Troy,†Gia said sternly, “You’re worth a lot more than that. So what if he beat you? You still lead us to his destruction.â€
“I don’t know,†Troy said, “You’ve all gained those weapons somehow. You all have had a former Ranger guide you in some way…I guess,†he didn’t know about Emma, “I have nothing.â€
“You’re the leader we need,†Gia said.
“You’ve lead us well so far,†Noah told him, “Just continue to do what you do, and we’ll be able to do great things.â€
“Troy, we all believe in you,†Emma told him. “So what if you don’t have a former Ranger’s weapon or training? You’re still exactly what we need right now.â€
Jake nodded, “Maybe the rest of us need this stuff because you’re better than us. We’re just playing catch-up. I mean, how many of us really knew anything about fighting, other than you?â€
“Me,†Gia said simply.
“Well yeah, because you’re like perfect or something,†Jake said.
The five panels began to blare. Something was arriving. Everyone jumped up and ran over, gazing at their panels. They could see a single green feminine figure. She wasn’t doing anything yet.
“She’s not an insect,†Noah said. He looked at them, “I don’t think she’s one of the poison monsters.â€
“I don’t know,†Troy said, “But we’re going just the same.â€
Noah began to work on his panel, and in a few moments he looked at the others, “Locked.â€
The team teleported.
Hexatrix stood in a plaza. People had fled at the sight of her, but she didn’t care. She was just waiting for these…Rangers to appear.
She turned her head to see five beams of color come down, and for five figures in spandex to step forward. Were these the Rangers?
“What are you doing here, alien?†Jake questioned.
“What are you?†Noah asked. He still wanted to know.
“I am Hexatrix, and that’s all you need to know,†she said. She flicked her wrist, summoning an energized whip from a device concealed in her grip. “Let my name be on your minds as I destroy you.â€
“That won’t be happening,†Troy said, drawing his Morpher and getting ready to load a card. Before he could do anything, the whip was there. His Morpher was knocked out of his hand and skidded away. Before it could strike again, Jake was there, blocking with the Power Axe, since he didn’t need a card.
“Go!†Jake shouted, keeping a tight grip, “I have the whip!â€
Noah and Emma ran past him, their blades in hand. They were about to be upon Hexatrix, but then the woman laughed.
She shut off the whip, causing Jake to stumble. He looked atœWhat?â€
Hexatrix activated her whip again and lashed it out, catching both Noah and Emma across the chests. They hit the ground and rolled, while Gia leapt for the woman, glowing yellow. She thrust an arm out with a shout.
The Tiger Spirit rushed forward, but Hexatrix didn’t move. The protrusions from her shoulders slid open and some sort of energy wave was released. The energy held the Tiger at bay and it soon disintegrated. Her shoulder projections closed and the whip shot for Gia, striking her right in the chest. She stumbled back and took two more lashes before going down.
“Is this the best you can do?†Hexatrix questioned, “I haven’t even had to leave my place yet. You’ve only made me turn a little.â€
Troy started to run for her, shouting. He wasn’t going to let his team go down; he was going to lead the charge, or at least distract her. Even without a weapon, he had to do something.
“That’s such a foolish move,†she said, flicking her whip against the ground.
“Stop!â€
Troy slowed and almost fell from his sudden stop. He turned his head, as did everyone else. The Phantom Ranger stood, firearm raised at Hexatrix.
“I am your opponent,†he told her, the Rapid Lion loaded. He was ready to use his Knight Rapid at the pull of his trigger.
Hexatrix looked him over, and then looked at the five Rangers. She looked back at the Phantom Ranger and shook her head. “Another time,†she said, “But for now? No.â€
He took a step forward and thrust his weapon all the way out. But she was waving her arm out and vanishing in a honeycombed bubble (note: Matrintis teleport effect).
The Phantom Ranger hurried over to the others and lowered his weapon, “Are all of you alright?â€
“Y-yeah…,†Noah muttered.
Emma nodded.
“She’s strong,†Gia said.
“She knocked me down…,†Jake muttered. He didn’t even get to fight.
Troy was silent. He clenched his fists tight, trying to clear his mind, trying to focus.
“She wasn’t an insect, or a toxic monster,†Noah told the Phantom Ranger. “She was something else entirely. I know there were a lot of them when the Rangers fought as an army, but…how much bigger is the enemy we’re fighting?â€
“I wish I knew,†the Phantom Ranger admitted.
---------------------
Goseiger 13: 0:03-0:47, 3:21-5:37, 13:36-14:02
Total: 3:26 Sentai
Note: the mysterious boy would be played by Peter Adrian, who apparently auditioned for Megaforce Blue, and again for Silver (I believe he said).
[Goseiger 13. 0:03-0:47]
Longhorn turned, “Are you sure I have the power to win?†He scratched his face as Vrak took steps towards him.
“Correct,†he held up a pouch, “With these.†Longhorn took grip of the pouch and drew out a red seed-like object, observing it.
“This will work, right?†He poured a number of them back into his pouch.
“Correct,†Vrak said.
Vrak turned suddenly and took a green energy blast right to his body, knocking Longhorn aside and bringing Vrak to his knees.
“Vrak!†Malkor shouted. Vrak remained in a bowed position. “You let Clawhate go to his doom without telling me what he was planning?†Malkor demanded.
Vrak turned his bow, “I…did.†Longhorn came and bowed beside him. “Longhorn will make up for it,†Vrak said, “He will be just as good as Clawhate.â€
Malkor turned, “You know nothing about what Clawhate meant,†Malkor growled, pointing his axe at Vrak.
Vrak just bowed his head, followed by Longhorn.
[End Sentai footage]
The Rangers sat together at one of the local businesses; a smoothie café. They sat together at a rounded table in the corner, each of them with a drink.
“Well guys, we did it,†Troy said, lifting his drink up in celebration, “One down.â€
“How many more to go, though?†Jake asked.
“At least four,†Noah said, “Those two new guys, Vrak, and their leader.â€
“We can beat them,†Gia said, “We proved something yesterday. We proved that we’re strong, and that we don’t give up.â€
Emma nodded, “That’s right. We’ll win, and we’ll protect the Earth.â€
“I just hope that the Phantom Ranger recovers enough energy soon,†Noah said, “It’s hard, watching him struggle through some of this stuff.â€
Troy nodded. He had offered Troy all of the energy he had left to be able to fight again. No matter how much Troy needed a boost, the Phantom Ranger was so much worse off…
“He needs our help,†Troy said.
“I don’t know if we can help him,†Noah said, “We don’t even know what he is. Is he a human in a suit? Is he a machine? We…we just don’t know.â€
“The way he folds up in his Knight Mode isn’t human,†Emma said.
“He refused to tell us,†Jake muttered.
“Let’s assume he’s a machine,†Noah said, “The evidence points that way…but why is he still so weak? If he was a machine, he should be able to gain energy from other sources, or rebuild his armor, or…something.â€
Troy nodded, “You’d think.â€
“Maybe his energy source isn’t something the Earth has,†Gia said, “Assuming he’s a robot.â€
“That could be,†Noah said, “But there should be something we could do.â€
“We should look into it,†Troy said, “He’s saved us, he gave us the power to fight, he gave us so much. It’s our turn to repay him.â€
“Maybe one of the other Rangers could help us,†Noah offered, “We could find Casey and Zack…â€
“No!†Jake interjected, slamming his fist on the table, almost knocking over his drink. Noah, sitting beside him, picked his up quickly to avoid a spill.
They just looked at him, Gia finally voicing what they wall thought, “Why?â€
“Um…well…you guys don’t know Zack like I do,†he said, “I’d rather not…â€
“Too bad,†Gia said, “Get over it, we need him.â€
In actuality, Jake didn’t care if Zack came back or not. He was a pretty cool guy, when all was said and done. But Casey…he didn’t like the bond Casey and Gia had.
“First we have to figure out how to contact them, right?†Emma asked.
“Yeah…good point,†Troy admitted.
Jake let out a sigh of relief.
There was a beeping heard from around the table. Each one of them drew out their Morphers and listened.
“Rangers,†the Phantom said. They all looked around to make sure their Morphers were hidden from view of anyone around, and they weren’t being listened in on.
“Go on,†Troy said.
“There’s an insectoid attacking a construction site. Teleport there when ready.â€
Troy looked at the others and they all rose from the table at once and headed out. They left the mall and headed behind the building. Once out of sight they activated their Morphers, teleporting in their colors and heading off to meet the enemy.
Longhorn simply walked through the construction site. People started to panic and scream and run. He didn’t have to do anything; he just had to be there.
He scratched his chin, “Well…that’s pretty effective…,†he had to admit.
“Stop right there!†Troy shouted. Red and pink wind slashed at the ground next to him.
[Goseiger 13. 3:21-5:37]
Longhorn stood and looked to see the two Sky Rangers standing beside each other. He lifted his hand up and made a gesture in their direction, “Good, you guys are here.†He folded his arms, “Didn’t keep me waiting.â€
Noah, Jake and Gia ran to get next to Troy and Emma. “You were waiting for us?†Noah questioned.
“Why?†Jake questioned, pointing at the monster.
Longhorn unfolded his arms and gestured towards them, “Come get me.â€
Noah stepped forward, “I’ll take the first shot,†he said, “Shark Bowgun!†he loaded his card and slammed the Morpher closed.
“Water…,†Longhorn muttered, looking at his pouch. He plunged his hand in, “Easy.†He held a blue seed between his fingers. He put it in his mouth just as Noah fired on him.
A blue aura came out of his chest, firing the same type of shots that the Shark Bowgun did. They took out Noah’s shot and then struck him in the chest, throwing him back.
The others ran to his aid, “Noah!†they called.
Longhorn’s chest stopped glowing. Emma moved to help Noah while Jake got up and walked towards the monster, taking his Morpher from the side of his belt. “I’ll get you!†he said as he loaded his Zord head card.
“Land, got it,†Longhorn said, taking a black seed as Jake loaded the Zord head onto his sidearm. Longhorn put the seed in his mouth as Jake charged his shot.
“Snake Venom!†he shouted, spinning and dropping, shooting his charged shot.
An energy projection came from Longhorn’s chest in the shape of a snake, and then shot forward, slamming into Jake’s shot. It overpowered Jake’s and struck him in the chest, sending him flying back to the others.
“He copied us again…,†Noah said.
Longhorn stood there, laughing.
“Try this!†Troy said, loading his weapon card. He took grip of his Dragon Sword as it appeared.
“Sky powers? Ok,†Longhorn said. He put a red seed into his mouth, “Thanks Vrak…â€
Troy leapt forward while Longhorn threw his arms aside. A sword appeared out of his chest, which he promptly took grip of. It was a blue copy of Troy’s sword; the same that Vrak had used.
Troy flipped around in the air and yelled, giving an energized slash.
Longhorn had no trouble catching the blade against his, to Troy’s surprise. “That sword…â€
Longhorn pushed Troy’s sword away and slashed him across the chest twice. Troy drew his arm back and attempted to thrust, but Longhorn parried and swung his sword out, and then slashed him again.
Troy was pushed back, and then took another slash, being thrown completely back.
“Troy!†Emma called, running to his side.
“He keeps copying us…,†Gia said.
Longhorn twirled his sword around, “You guys can’t touch me!†he laughed. “Vrak has given me all I need to destroy you!†he laughed while patting his pouch. He drew his sword up, “Come on, try me!†he shouted. He swung his sword out, then down, sending two energy slashes out at the team.
Explosions tore around the team. They stood no chance, going down with ease. Troy’s sword flew into the air, landing in front of him as they went down. Noah remained on his knees, but everyone else was on the ground. Noah fell.
Longhorn laughed at them through the smoke. “Is that it?†he laughed.
Troy tried to pick himself up. Jake dragged himself, “I’ll get you!†he shouted.
“He’s…so good…,†Noah muttered. “We have to get that bag!â€
“What should we do?†Emma asked.
“We’ll just go right for him!†Troy said. He opened his Morpher and drew a card. He loaded Compress Thunder and closed the Morpher.
“That won’t work…,†Longhorn said. He reached into his pouch and dug around. And then frantically. “What? I don’t have that one? No!â€
Troy thrust his Morpher up with a shout. A red beam shot upwards, forming a stormcloud filled with angry red lightning.
“Where…where are you? Vrak? Where is it?†Longhorn shouted, casting his sword aside to dig.
“Compress Thunder!†Troy shouted, thrusting his Morpher down.
Red lightning shot down on top of Longhorn’s head, destroying the ground around him, causing explosions to erupt. Longhorn was tossed out of the chaos and hit some of the rocky surface that had been pushed out of the way by the construction crew.
“You got him!†Emma told Troy, patting him on the shoulder. Jake fell, using Gia for support. “He can’t copy Compress Thunder!â€
On the ground, Longhorn threw an arm out, “I didn’t know you had that…â€
[End Sentai footage]
“Alright,†Gia said, “I doubt he can stop the Tiger Spirit either!â€
“Let’s go!†Troy said.
As the Rangers started to run forward, a blast struck the ground in front of them. They slowed to avoid being hit, and saw Vrak standing beside Longhorn, clad in his clawed armor.
“Come,†Vrak told Longhorn, “We’re going.â€
Longhorn nodded and came to his feet. Vrak grabbed his shoulder and they were both gone in an instant.
“Any idea how he can do that?†Troy asked the Phantom Ranger as the team stood in the base.
“I don’t know,†their mentor admitted.
“He ate something,†Noah said, “That’s how he did it. Bu it doesn’t explain the how of it.â€
“I think the best question is how they were able to nullify our powers so perfectly,†Gia said.
Noah nodded, “Yeah. He even copied Jake’s snake attack! Hitting us with something similar is one thing, but they were copies.â€
“I don’t know,†the Phantom Ranger said.
“…where do our powers come from?†Emma asked.
“What?†he questioned.
“Where do they come from? Is it possible that they were able to gain access to them, or something?â€
“No,†the Phantom Ranger said, “These powers come from the Zords, and their bonds with the Earth, the planet they’ve come to serve.â€
“So, does that mean the aliens might have some of the other survivors?†Jake asked.
“Possibly, but doubtful,†the Phantom answered, “Besides, they’d need to form a bond with this Earth, but the rest of the Zords would have known if they were here.â€
“Then how was it able to do that?†Troy questioned.
“I don’t know,†the Phantom Ranger answered, shaking his head, “I’m sorry, Rangers.â€
“It’s fine,†Troy said, “We’ll get through this, somehow.â€
As the Rangers left the Phantom alone in the base, he spoke to himself, “That monster has yet to fight me.â€
“Thanks for the help,†Vrak told Rots, standing in the slime-filled ship that Rots and his team had arrived in.
“It was no trouble,†he answered, “Clawhate never even realized the power we had sent to him.â€
“Yes, those dark energy blasts,†Vrak said, “Poor fool, must have thought it was the Zombats amplifying his powers, or something.â€
“And then the blasts managed to copy the Rangers powers, and we made the seeds,†Rots laughed. “Did they work as planned?â€
“Yes,†Vrak said, “Except he was exposed against a thunder attack.â€
“They found one weakness,†Rots said, “The seeds should hold out.â€
“Unless more powers escaped copying,†Vrak said.
“No,†Rots said, “It should be fine. And if not…well, we’ll use our powers again and nullify the Ranger’s attacks.†He thumped his staff against the ground a few times, “As long as I have this, I can keep it up.â€
“Excellent,†Vrak said before taking his leave.
As the Rangers sat in class the next day, being lectured on Napoleon’s defeat in Russia, the Phantom Ranger picked up a scan. Longhorn had returned.
The Lion Zord head flew around him, letting out a growl. The Phantom shook his head, “No, we’re not telling them,†he said, picking up his Morpher from a stone table, the same one which held the Power Axe. “This is my fight now.â€
Longhorn was walking along in an above ground parking garage, still wielding his copied sword. He tapped it against a cement pillar a few times and then shrugged. “Might as well get to work…â€
He turned and lifted his sword up, then lowered it and shook his head. He drew it back, wielding it like a baseball bat. Yes, this would work. He was going to slam it into this car and send it flying out into the city.
“This’ll get their attention!†he laughed.
Before he could swing his sword, an energy blast slammed into his hands, forcing him to drop it. He turned and looked to see the Phantom Ranger in his Knight Mode, firearm up.
“You’re different,†Longhorn said. He picked up his sword and approached the newcomer, “I’ll take you down too!â€
“You can’t beat me,†the Phantom said, lifting his firearm again before engaging the blade.
The two ran at each other and crossed swords. The Phantom Ranger knew he had to end this quickly; he probably didn’t have the strength for a long fight. He shoved the sword back and delivered a kick into Longhorn’s chest to knock him into the pillar.
Longhorn drove his sword forward before the Phantom Ranger could strike. He dodged back and engaged the firearm, shooting at Longhorn, who ducked and ran behind pillars and cars to avoid taking hits.
He stopped and looked around. Where was Longhorn?
The monster came out from his side, tackling him. The Phantom Ranger let out a grunt and lost his sword. He was slammed into a pillar, and then took a series of punches to his chest before being pushed away and slashed by Longhorn a few times, all the while the monster laughed.
Vrak stepped out from behind one of the pillars farther down, clad in his brown armor. He smiled as he watched Longhorn fight. “Time for part two…â€
As the lecture at school continued, the fire alarm suddenly went off.
“I’m so glad to hear that,†Jake said, getting up quickly.
“It’s actually an interesting lecture,†Gia told him.
“How?†he questioned.
“You don’t find it fascinating how such a powerful army was destroyed by the environment and weather?†Noah questioned.
Jake just shrugged.
“Considering the fight we have ahead of us, you may want to pay attention,†Gia said.
“Oh, I’m sure it’s going to go all ‘War of the Worlds’ on us and a virus is going to wipe out the aliens…,†Jake muttered.
As they went down the hall with the rest of the classes, screams permeated the area. They were coming from up ahead. A teacher ran and shouted to go the other way. There was mass confusion; wasn’t this just a fire drill?
Coming from behind the man were a group of Stingers, wielding their blades. They lifted their weapons, preparing to fire.
Troy and Emma managed to slip their Morphers out and load cards quickly. They slammed them shut and in the confusion managed to get them thrust forward. Wind tore around the students and into the Stingers, throwing them down the hall.
Gia grabbed Jake and pulled him into the closest classroom. Noah motioned to Emma and Troy and brought them inside as well.
“We’ve got to stop them,†Troy said.
“Should we Morph?†Jake asked.
The Stingers had already rushed down the hall and seen them in the room. One swung, but Troy caught its wrist and punched it twice before kicking it back.
“No time,†he said, jumping forward and punching another one.
The others hurried into the hall. Nobody was around, at least.
Gia used the training Casey had given her, using a flurry of strikes into one before going into another, giving them strong blows, infused with bits of her spirit energy.
Jake ducked one’s swing and rammed his shoulder into it. He then followed up with a knee, turning that knee strike into a straight kick back into another Stinger.
Noah ducked one’s swing and got behind it. He grabbed at its throat with one arm and its arm with the other. He managed to aim the Stinger’s weapon at another Stinger and forced it to fire multiple times until the other one went down, and then focused on changing targets.
Emma ducked one and rammed her knee into it. She pushed it back and jumped up, giving it a front kick. She landed and twisted into a side kick to take it down.
“There’s got to be a reason for this!†Troy said.
“They know we go here,†Gia said, “I think we’ve figured that out because of that bee monster.â€
“I think they were planning on trying to get us when we were vulnerable,†Noah said. “Or maybe the aliens figured we wouldn’t Morph if people were around, and we’d keep our identities secret.â€
“Well, whatever it is, we have to protect our school!†Emma said.
“Right,†Troy said, lifting his Morpher, “Phantom Ranger?â€
Nothing.
“Don’t summon,†Troy said, “We might get caught with weapons we can’t explain.†He picked up one of the fallen blades from a Stinger and ducked one’s strike. He slashed it back across the chest and then punched it down.
The others picked up Stinger weapons as well, shooting or slashing through them until the attack stopped; they were all destroyed.
Troy lifted his Morpher again, “Phantom Ranger? It’s Troy, come in! Nothing!†he lowered his Morpher, “Something’s wrong.â€
“Then we should go,†Gia said.
Noah nodded, “School can wait.â€
“Never thought I’d hear you say that,†Jake admitted.
“The world comes first,†Emma said.
Troy looked around and then more Stingers came down the hallway. He was ready to bring his team back into the fight when another student came out and kicked one back, knocking it into a few more and disorienting them. He was fast, throwing in rapid punches and knee strikes, throwing a few into each other.
He turned to look at the five, and they realized they didn’t know him. “Who are you?†Troy asked.
“A friend,†he stated, then looked back at the Stingers, “Trust me, I can handle this. Go…Rangers.â€
“But we’re not…,†Jake said.
“I don’t care,†he said, “Go!â€
Troy then ushered them into the classroom. They teleported out to the command center. It was the only place they could go until the Phantom Ranger re-routed them.
Noah moved to his console immediately, “I’ll see what I can do,†he said, “I’ve almost got a lock on the Phantom Ranger…â€
“Hurry,†Troy said, bringing his panel up, “It looks like he’s in trouble.â€
“Just redirecting the teleporters to his location. Got it,†he said, “Ok, time to go.â€
And once more they teleported.
The Phantom Ranger rolled across the ground. His Knight form flickered for a moment before fading. Longhorn laughed and approached him, tapping his sword against his shoulder. “You’re too weak…â€
A series of blasts struck the ground at Longhorn’s feet. He stumbled and saw the Rangers running for him, sidearms drawn.
“Get away from him!†Emma called.
“Time to go…,†he said, turning to run.
Noah fired, shooting the sword out of Longhorn’s hand. He shook his hand and growled before jumping out of the open side of the building.
“Will you be ok?†Emma asked the Phantom.
He nodded, “Go after him…â€
“Let’s go!†Troy said, running towards the edge with the others.
[Goseiger 13. 13:36-14:02]
The Rangers stood in a line. Noah lifted his right wrist into his left hand, while Jake stepped forward. “Time to take him down!†Jake said. He flicked his wrist and ran forward ahead of the others.
Longhorn stood farther down the plaza from them, ready. Jake jumped and punched, but he span aside, only to be confronted by Troy, Gia and Noah. “Do you think rushing me will work?†Longhorn questioned, throwing a punch and twisting around to avoid taking hits. Nothing was connecting on either side.
Longhorn rolled aside and came up to his knees, “You fools…†He lifted a red seed into his mouth. Jake and Gia went in for a punch, but he had his sword again and blocked their punches. Noah came into the fight, but was evaded. Jake took a slash, and then Gia.
He swung down on Noah, who went to his knees and caught the sword between his hands.
“Got him!†he shouted.
Longhorn struggled, trying to get his weapon free. He didn’t realize Jake and Gia were leaping behind him, weapons high in the air, coming down onto his back.
As Longhorn came forward, Noah thrust his leg up and cast him over. Longhorn rolled across the plaza, sword still in hand.
[End Sentai footage]
Longhorn came to a knee, “No…I have to get out of here…,†he muttered, turning and running.
“After him!†Troy shouted, running ahead of the others.
Longhorn looked back, but continued to run. He ran right back into the parking garage and started to try to go up, but was shot in the back by Jake. Longhorn fell, giving the Rangers a chance to catch up to him.
Longhorn came up to his feet, looking at the five Rangers before him. He backed away, “Come on…,†he growled, eating a red seed to summon his sword again. “I’ll defeat you guys!â€
“Look,†Troy said, taking a step towards him, “You can cancel and counter our attacks. But…that’s only if we use them. Yeah, you’re handy with that sword, but if we just fight you, we’ve got you.â€
“I don’t think so,†he said, lifting his sword, “Remember the damage I did to you, fighting sword to sword?â€
Troy clenched his fist. He was a fencer, he was skilled, and yet this monster who wielded a copy of his blade managed to defeat him. He took a breath and flexed his hand.
“That’s why we’re doing something else,†Gia said, stepping beside Troy.
“And what would that be?†Longhorn questioned, lifting his sword in her direction.
“Just watch,†Gia said as a yellow aura came around her body.
Longhorn was frantic, digging into his pouch, “But you didn’t use a card!†he yelled.
“That’s right,†Gia said, thrusting her arms forward. “Tiger Spirit!†she shouted. The yellow spirit animal smashed into Longhorn, sending him flying back into a wall. He slid down and picked up his dropped sword, clutching to it tightly like it was a lifeline.
“What was that?†Longhorn shouted.
Jake was atop him, leaping and swinging down his Power Axe. Longhorn barely dodged to the side. As Jake regained his footing, he turned and sent out a shaky side kick. It connected, sending Longhorn back, where Noah was glowing blue, ready to use a spin attack again, and Emma was reaching for a card.
Longhorn took a slash towards Emma. “Look out!†Noah shouted, his energy fading; he had no time to use it. He thrust his arm out to try to stop the attack from connecting. He’d rather take a wounded arm than have Emma take a direct hit, or any member of the team, rather.
There was a spark of green, and suddenly Noah was holding a sword in his hand, which he realized quickly enough. He swung it up to block Longhorn’s sword, holding it tight.
“What? How did you do that?†Longhorn shouted.
“I don’t know…,†Noah muttered.
Emma moved around Noah, “Thanks!†she said. Before she could get her card slotted into her Morpher, a spark of white appeared in the air before her, forming into a dagger. She looked at it for a moment, and then put her Morpher onto her belt and took grip of the weapon. She swung the blade into Longhorn’s side, sending him rolling away.
Noah looked at his Samurai Saber, and Emma at the Drago Sword. “Where did these come from?†Emma asked quietly.
“I think this was Cam’s…,†Noah said. “I don’t know about that one, though.â€
Lonhorn held his wounded chest. He turned to see Jake swing the Power Axe into him, catching him across the chest. Then a second slash, which turned into a blast to the chest from the Axe’s secondary mode.
Longhorn, damaged and lying on the ground, looked up to see Troy.
“I’m the only one without anything special,†Troy said, brandishing his sword, “Try me.â€
Longhorn picked his weapon up and shouted. He swung wildly, but Troy dodged back with expert skill, avoiding every blow. He drew his sword up and stepped into one attack, keeping Longhorn’s sword high. He twisted his sword to bring Longhorn’s down, and then drew back and thrust, smashing his blade into Longhorn’s chest, sending him a few steps back.
Jake stood by Troy and rested an arm on his shoulder. He held the Power Axe out, “Be my guest,†he said.
Troy passed his sword from his right to his left hand, and then took the Power Axe into his right. He rushed forward as Jake removed his arm.
Longhorn was panicked. He was looking around, and then lifted his sword when Troy got close. Troy swung his Dragon Sword up to catch Longhorn’s, and then he shoved it away, leaving the monster open. He shouted, swinging the Power Axe down, and then back up at an angle, sending him rolling away.
“Let’s finish him!†Troy said, holding his sword out.
As Longhorn rose, the Megaforce Blazer was aimed right for him, wielded by Troy, Noah and Emma. Jake had the Power Axe in its cannon mode, and Gia was glowing yellow for her Tiger Spirit.
“No…,†is all Longhorn managed to say.
The three attacks flew for him and threw him out the far side of the building, out to the ground outside. The Rangers gave chase, ready for him to grow. They leapt down and stood before the sparking Longhorn, drawing their Morphers.
“Tsk,†Vrak lifted his hand, ready to summon his Zombats. The entire ship suddenly shook, knocking him off balance. “What was that?†he shouted.
“Vrak!†Malkor’s voice boomed as he came through the corridor.
“Admiral!†Vrak said, “Do you know what that was?â€
He lifted his axe towards the prince, “No, but I imagine it involves you…â€
“Why would you say that?†he asked, taking a few steps back.
“Before you came onboard my ship, I never had to worry about anything. I could complete and operation and be on my way. Now I have another ship docked with mine, soldiers I’ve never seen before, and I’ve lost my right hand! All because of you!â€
There were footsteps coming down the corridor, behind Vrak. He turned as the Admiral directed his gaze. There were three figures approaching.
One of them was a mechanical woman. Beside her was a large, white-armored machine, clearly not female. They stopped, and the third figure came into view.
“Prince Vrak,†she said.
She was green and black, with an orange visor over her eyes, and a pale white face. She had a projection coming out of each shoulder, with cords coming from them attached to her arms.
“Hexatrix,†Vrak said, “Why are you here? Did Father send you?â€
Malkor stood in silence as he watched. Of course, it involved Vrak.
“No,†she said, “I detected a use of my dark energy weapon,†she told him, “I came to investigate the results.â€
“It was unable to destroy the Rangers,†Vrak said, “But combined with Rots and his magic, I was able to make copies of the Ranger powers to convert into seed form.â€
“Interesting,†she said, “I will look into it. Where are these Rangers who were too strong for my dark energy weapon?†she questioned.
“On Earth,†Vrak said.
“Then I leave for the Earth at once.†She turned to look at the machines, “I’m sure you know these two. Meching, Mecharess, the leaders of the machine military.â€
“I do,†Vrak said.
“Their forces are now here to assist,†she said, walking away and leaving the two machines with Vrak and Malkor.
Malkor looked at Vrak. He held the gaze for a few moments, said nothing, and then left Vrak with the machines.
“So, where did these things come from?†Jake asked as they sat around in the command center. It was empty except for the five Rangers; the Phantom Ranger was gone. He picked up the Drago Sword and turned it over in hand.
“I still think this is from Cam,†Noah said, gripping the katana.
“But why couldn’t you use it until now?†Gia asked, “And it’s not like this was something strenuous that summoned it. It probably would have appeared during the fight with Clawhate otherwise.â€
“I don’t know,†Noah said, “Maybe because I was protecting Emma? Or because I was using the spin he taught me, and then had to cut it short? I don’t know.â€
Emma held her hand out to Jake. He placed the weapon into it, so she turned it over in her hands, “I have no idea where this could have come from…â€
“We’ll figure it out,†Gia said. She looked at Troy. Their leader was being completely silent.
“Troy?†Emma asked, setting the weapon on the table beside the Power Axe.
“Hm?†he looked at all of them, “Oh, nothing.â€
“You’re distant,†Gia said, “What’s going on?â€
“…I’m your leader,†he told all of them, “I don’t know how much leadership ability I bring to all of you, but I do bring my sword ability. Vrak overpowered me in a duel, but…he’s a commander, so that’s different. But when this guy copied my sword and overpowered me? I…â€
“Troy,†Gia said sternly, “You’re worth a lot more than that. So what if he beat you? You still lead us to his destruction.â€
“I don’t know,†Troy said, “You’ve all gained those weapons somehow. You all have had a former Ranger guide you in some way…I guess,†he didn’t know about Emma, “I have nothing.â€
“You’re the leader we need,†Gia said.
“You’ve lead us well so far,†Noah told him, “Just continue to do what you do, and we’ll be able to do great things.â€
“Troy, we all believe in you,†Emma told him. “So what if you don’t have a former Ranger’s weapon or training? You’re still exactly what we need right now.â€
Jake nodded, “Maybe the rest of us need this stuff because you’re better than us. We’re just playing catch-up. I mean, how many of us really knew anything about fighting, other than you?â€
“Me,†Gia said simply.
“Well yeah, because you’re like perfect or something,†Jake said.
The five panels began to blare. Something was arriving. Everyone jumped up and ran over, gazing at their panels. They could see a single green feminine figure. She wasn’t doing anything yet.
“She’s not an insect,†Noah said. He looked at them, “I don’t think she’s one of the poison monsters.â€
“I don’t know,†Troy said, “But we’re going just the same.â€
Noah began to work on his panel, and in a few moments he looked at the others, “Locked.â€
The team teleported.
Hexatrix stood in a plaza. People had fled at the sight of her, but she didn’t care. She was just waiting for these…Rangers to appear.
She turned her head to see five beams of color come down, and for five figures in spandex to step forward. Were these the Rangers?
“What are you doing here, alien?†Jake questioned.
“What are you?†Noah asked. He still wanted to know.
“I am Hexatrix, and that’s all you need to know,†she said. She flicked her wrist, summoning an energized whip from a device concealed in her grip. “Let my name be on your minds as I destroy you.â€
“That won’t be happening,†Troy said, drawing his Morpher and getting ready to load a card. Before he could do anything, the whip was there. His Morpher was knocked out of his hand and skidded away. Before it could strike again, Jake was there, blocking with the Power Axe, since he didn’t need a card.
“Go!†Jake shouted, keeping a tight grip, “I have the whip!â€
Noah and Emma ran past him, their blades in hand. They were about to be upon Hexatrix, but then the woman laughed.
She shut off the whip, causing Jake to stumble. He looked atœWhat?â€
Hexatrix activated her whip again and lashed it out, catching both Noah and Emma across the chests. They hit the ground and rolled, while Gia leapt for the woman, glowing yellow. She thrust an arm out with a shout.
The Tiger Spirit rushed forward, but Hexatrix didn’t move. The protrusions from her shoulders slid open and some sort of energy wave was released. The energy held the Tiger at bay and it soon disintegrated. Her shoulder projections closed and the whip shot for Gia, striking her right in the chest. She stumbled back and took two more lashes before going down.
“Is this the best you can do?†Hexatrix questioned, “I haven’t even had to leave my place yet. You’ve only made me turn a little.â€
Troy started to run for her, shouting. He wasn’t going to let his team go down; he was going to lead the charge, or at least distract her. Even without a weapon, he had to do something.
“That’s such a foolish move,†she said, flicking her whip against the ground.
“Stop!â€
Troy slowed and almost fell from his sudden stop. He turned his head, as did everyone else. The Phantom Ranger stood, firearm raised at Hexatrix.
“I am your opponent,†he told her, the Rapid Lion loaded. He was ready to use his Knight Rapid at the pull of his trigger.
Hexatrix looked him over, and then looked at the five Rangers. She looked back at the Phantom Ranger and shook her head. “Another time,†she said, “But for now? No.â€
He took a step forward and thrust his weapon all the way out. But she was waving her arm out and vanishing in a honeycombed bubble (note: Matrintis teleport effect).
The Phantom Ranger hurried over to the others and lowered his weapon, “Are all of you alright?â€
“Y-yeah…,†Noah muttered.
Emma nodded.
“She’s strong,†Gia said.
“She knocked me down…,†Jake muttered. He didn’t even get to fight.
Troy was silent. He clenched his fists tight, trying to clear his mind, trying to focus.
“She wasn’t an insect, or a toxic monster,†Noah told the Phantom Ranger. “She was something else entirely. I know there were a lot of them when the Rangers fought as an army, but…how much bigger is the enemy we’re fighting?â€
“I wish I knew,†the Phantom Ranger admitted.
---------------------
Goseiger 13: 0:03-0:47, 3:21-5:37, 13:36-14:02
Total: 3:26 Sentai
Note: the mysterious boy would be played by Peter Adrian, who apparently auditioned for Megaforce Blue, and again for Silver (I believe he said).
