Why is every good TV show Cancelled
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Power Rangers Vortex Shield
Episode III
Two Years On…
EXT. SLATE CREEK COLLEGE CAMPUS- DAY
It is the end of summer and everyone is flocking back to the college campus, meeting back up with each other and talking excitedly about another year at college. A title card pops up reading “Two Years Later…â€
Ryker’s van parks along the road in front of the campus lawn and Ryker and Trace climb out.
RYKER
Here we are, another year at the fine academy- Slate Creek University!
TRACE
Yeah, I can’t believe it’s senior year already! Feels like we started only yesterday.
RYKER
Nope- that was three years ago. You’re forgetting those two quiet years where nothing happened after the… Roof incident which will be left unexplained.
TRACE
Yeah… so you going to help me get our stuff inside, or not?
Ryker hesitates.
RYKER
Er… Hey, where’d Ashlyn and Teryn get to, I wonder?
Trace opens the back of the van and starts assessing the situation and sorting his stuff from Ryker’s.
TRACE
I dunno. They were right behind us. Though, if Teryn mysteriously disappears, that’ll be… absolutely… amazing.
RYKER
She’s still dogging you?
TRACE
Oh, just every waking moment.
Trace begins pulling out bags and handing them to Ryker, who doubles over with the weight.
RYKER
Gah! After… so many years… you’d think she’d move on… or at least give up!
Trace turns around with more bags, eyeing Ryker in amusement.
TRACE
Yeah you’d think… you ok, man?
RYKER
Yeah! Never better… brosky!
TRACE
Yeah, well, on your way to take that phrase back to the nineties, would you drop those bags off at my dorm?
RYKER
Very f… hey, look, it’s your lover!
Trace looks up as a sedan car pulls up behind them. Ashlyn and Teryn yell out excitedly and wave to them through open windows from the front seats.
TRACE
Hey, Ashlyn! Teryn. Where have you guys been?
TERYN
McDonalds run, sorry!
ASHLYN
We would’ve got you something, but we didn’t have the money-
Ashlyn runs up, hugging trace and whispering in his ear.
ASHLYN
No, actually, I had to hold her back- she was like a friggin’ lion on scent!
TRACE
Yeah, she usually is-
The two break and trace addresses Teryn.
TRACE (con’t)
So… you!
TERYN
Hey, handsome! Oh, can you help us get our stuff back to the dorm? We’re on the third floor and some of this stuff- Ashlyn’s books- is pretty heavy.
ASHLYN
My books? What about all the souvenirs you picked up on your world tour?
TERYN
Oh, it’s not as bad as your books!
RYKER
World tour?
ASHLYN
Teryn’s a rich valley girl turned wiccan- every summer her daddy takes her somewhere special- this summer, being her last before graduation, he LITERALLY took her around the world. Go! Look!
Teryn is flustered as Ryker attempts to check, but Trace stops him.
TRACE
Priorities, man. Priorities.
RYKER
Yeah! Whatever you say, Trace!
Ryker begins slowly dragging his bags towards their dorm building. Trace, Ashlyn and Teryn soon follow with their own things, having considerably less trouble than Ryker.
RYKER
So, where’s Andrew anyway? I thought he said he’d meet us up here to help carry our stuff in.
ASHLYN
Oh! I totally forgot, but he called this morning and said Mr. Aladesco needs him working today. The store is doing all the floral arrangements for the homecoming parties at the local high schools and wouldn’t let him take the day off.
RYKER
Oh, that freak! You know, for a florist, they sure work Andrew to death! Why’d he even work there anyway?
TRACE
The pay. It’s absolutely amazing for a florist- he gets $15.70 per hour- there’s no way he can find a better job anywhere around here.
RYKER
Jeez! I might go to work there- I’ll pay off my student loans in, like, three minutes!
They all laugh.
ASHLYN
Well, he wanted us to head over there after we get situated, if you’re all-
TRACE
Yeah.
RYKER
I’m in! I was back home in India all summer and I’ve been looking forward to talking to you guys in three dimensions-
TRACE
-As preferred to Skype?
ASHLYN
Teryn?
TERYN
Oh! Yeah, sure. I think I need a few herbs replaced- they should be having their annual fall sale… and, I get the bonus of Tracey being there!
Teryn attempts to snuggle up with Trace, but he pulls his arm out of her grasp with an irritated clearing of his throat. Ashlyn gets the message and rushes around to Teryn, engaging her in conversation. Trace and Ryker share a look, Trace rolling his eyes and Ryker smiles warmly. The group splits in two again and they head off to refurnish their dorms.
INT. GAIA BOTANICALS, LOCKER ROOM- DAY
Andrew ties on a flamboyant apron and puts on an equally flamboyant baseball cap, a serious look on his face. He walks to the door to the main part of the store and takes a deep purging breath, preparing for the hell beyond. He exits.
INT. GAIA BOTANICALS- DAY
Andrew enters the sale floor which is completely flooded with excited, expectant customers going about their business. He goes behind the counter and starts trying to address angry customers, purchases and questions all at once.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- DAY
Terry pulls open a large warehouse door, entering the dark laboratory, only he’s a bit different from before. He is still wearing the white goggles, but he and his clothes appear worn and bedraggled. He walks across the warehouse covered in pieces of half finished robotics and approaches a folding table with a laptop on it in front of a set of boxes similar to a voting booth and a half assembled circular device. He begins typing on the computer as a foggy spirit approaches from behind. His voice causes Terry to jump in fright.
DAMARION
Enter! Have you finished yet?
ENTER (Terry)
Just about, monsieur, just about! I just need to add the finishing touches on the program, and-
DAMARION
Not them! You know what I mean.
Terry, now Enter, spins around to face Damarion, backing up against the table.
ENTER
The Vortex? No- we don’t have the proper technology at our disposal- I can’t find your home yet, let alone open a doorway to-
DAMARION
Excuses!
ENTER
But, master, I will! I will, soon, I swear!
DAMARION
How?
ENTER
We’ll just have to steal the technology.
Damarion snorts in derision.
DAMARION
You? Steal?
ENTER
Not me!
Enter turns back around, typing on the computer as he repeats “not me’ to himself over and over again. He finally finishes and looks up at the voting booth boxes feverishly.
ENTER
Them!
The boxes open and robotic arms haul out red humanoid robots with helmet-like heads and visors instead of eyes. Enter types in a password and electricity travels through the arms into the robots, activating them.
ENTER
May I introduce your new army… of Soulless minions!
DAMARION
If they have no souls, what use are they?
ENTER
Wait and see, master… wait and see!
The Soulless spin up double bladed punching knives in their hands and make electrical static, sparking noises for voices. They group together, monitoring for a threat and in battle crouches. A slow smile comes forcefully to Enter’s face. In the corner, a small yellow rabbit-like robot watches.
CASSIDY
Oh no! I have to get out of here!
Cassidy makes a dodge for the exit, but Enter & Damarion see her.
DAMARION
Stop her!
ENTER
At once!
Enter casts his hand out and clawed robotic arms shoot out of his sleeve. His eyes light up in a robotic red as the arms grab Cassidy, lifting her in the air and pulling her back to Damarion.
CASSIDY
Let me go!
DAMARION
Never! You tried to kill me… and I want you to suffer eternally for that! You will stay at my side until you see Vortex Shield… your sister… and her friends suffer and die in agony for resisting the might of the all powerful Damarion! Remember that, and get those foolish ideas of escape out of your head! It’ll never happen… NEVER!
Cassidy continues to squirm and struggle, but to no avail. Enter turns to the Soulless.
ENTER
Now that that’s taken care of… there’s something we need. Are you up for getting it for us?
The Soulless shake with perceived excitement at the chance to serve their masters. Enter smiles again, nodding.
ENTER
Ce magnifique- let’s get to work, shall we!
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Tamara is doing some work on her computer. She transfers the files onto a tablet and walks across the room to a striped metal wall and hits a button. The stripes turn out to be blinds over a window looking down into a large hangar with three tank-sized vehicles in various stages of completion. Chidra and Kulgor, now fully rebuilt, are working on a red and black vehicle that looks like a sports car, but is the size of a tank. Tamara watches their progress for a while as Chidra reprimands Kulgor for doing something stupid. Tamara shakes her head in reproach and is about to head down when the door opens and Reece enters.
REECE
Tamara. How’re the zords coming?
TAMARA
The Vortex Vehicles are not going- those two refuse to let anyone else near them, and on top of that they can’t even decide what they should be doing themselves. Look!
Reece approaches and watches the two berating each other. He slams his hands down on the window frame.
REECE
Idiots! We need those online before Damarion strikes again- there’s no time for fooling around!
He turns to head for the door into the hangar, but Tamara stops him.
TAMARA
What do you think he… it’s been two years. Maybe he’s not coming back?
REECE
He’s coming back, if I know him. Besides, why else would he have kidnapped-
He stops himself before saying “Terry†and watches Tamara apprehensively.
REECE (con’t)
-I’m sorry. Forgive me for that.
TAMARA
It’s ok… I mean, it may not have been Damarion. If it was, don’t you think he would have taken some of Terry’s projects?
REECE
The man has a photographic memory, he doesn’t really need his files to remember how to build a robot.
TAMARA
Yeah, but-
REECE
Don’t think about it. Don’t worry about it, no news is good news right?
Tamara takes a purging breath.
TAMARA
You’re right. This is time better spent increasing our arsenal before it’s too late.
Reece slaps a comforting hand on her shoulder and gives her a smile.
REECE
There you go. Now, about those two down-
Tamara bypasses him on the way to the hanger door.
TAMARA
I’ll handle it! I was going down there anyway.
Tamara types a code on a keypad and the sliding metal door slides open.
INT. VSHQ, ZORD HANGER- DAY
Chidra pushes Kulgor away.
CHIDRA
No, you idiot! That isn’t supposed to go there!
KULGOR
What do you mean? That’s where it is in me.
CHIDRA
Yeah- the difference being you’re a gorilla and this baby’s a cheetah, got it!
KULGOR
What difference does that make?
CHIDRA
Because this thing is supposed to-
Tamara walks down a flight of metal stairs and approaches them, monitoring the program on her tablet.
TAMARA
Everything alright down here?
CHIDRA
Yeah! Things would be better if we could get this thing done without being interrupted by the higher ups and Gorilla-man’s idiocy!
TAMARA
Chidra- we kept you here for a reason, both of you. We expected at least one of these to be done weeks ago!
CHIDRA
Don’t pressure me!
TAMARA
Ok… ok- do you want additional help? Things might go a bit faster if we-
CHIDRA
No one is touching my car except me, got it!
Tamara sighs in annoyance, pinching the bridge of her nose.
TAMARA
Ok fine. And these better be done when we need them, do you understand me?
CHIDRA
Yeah, yeah.
TAMARA
Ok. I’ve got other things to check on while I’m down here, you two, get back to work- cooperate- and finish the zords already!
Tamara walks away. Chidra watches her go, leaning back against the zord while Kulgor works on something with a plasma torch.
CHIDRA
What a busy body! We never got treated like this under Damarion!
KULGOR
Yeah. We got treated worse.
Chidra eyes him for a moment.
CHIDRA
What I wouldn’t give to-
KULGOR
-Be alive again?
Chidra groans in annoyance and half-heartedly slaps Kulgor.
CHIDRA
Stop interrupting me! Get back to work!
Tamara is walking down the line, checking the progress of some other projects when an alarm goes off on her tablet. Her eyes go wide and she runs back to the Innovation Center.
INT. GAIA BOTANICALS- DAY
Andrew is taking his break as the customer flow is beginning to die down. He leans back against the counter, sighing in relaxation when the door suddenly opens again.
ANDREW
Crap!
He spins around, expecting to greet new customers, only to find Ashlyn, Trace, Ryker and Teryn.
RYKER
Hey, bud, long time no see!
ANDREW
Ryker! Hey guys, you finally made it! I was beginning to worry.
ASHLYN
Oh, like we’d get lost looking for this place!
ANDREW
I dunno, Trace is pretty bad with directions!
TRACE
Hey!
ASHLYN
Well, that’s why we have a psychic, remember?
TRACE
I resent that!
TERYN
Well, then don’t deal with them right now! Help me, please! I need to find a whole crap load of stuff- I don’t know where it all is!
Trace gives her a look.
TRACE
You’re in here almost every day looking for herbs.
TERYN
Well… I have bad memory!
TRACE
And I’m bad with directions. Can’t help you. Sorry.
TERYN
But!
RYKER
Hey, I’ll help you. Why don’t we let these guys catch up?
Ryker gives her a meaningful look and drags her off into the isles. Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn group around the counter, but before they say anything, their Morphers make a watch alarm sound. They groan and Andrew looks to the others.
ANDREW
Come on. We know the drill by now.
Ryker is pulling Teryn deeper into the store, away from Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn. Annoyed and confused, she pulls away from him.
TERYN
What are you doing? Psycho!
RYKER
Hey, every time we leave those three alone in here, they disappear into thin air- maybe this time we can figure out what they’re up to?
TERYN
I don’t know! Maybe they just go out to eat!
RYKER
Then we’d hear the door!
Teryn rolls her eyes and begins looking for her herbs.
TERYN
Whatever. Figure it out yourself, I’m not really that interested.
RYKER
Fine!
The two go their separate ways. Ryker heads back to the others.
RYKER
Never mind. She didn’t want my help after all- guys?
Ryker looks up. Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn are gone.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn race in and line up in front of Tamara, who has her head close to Reece’s, showing him the footage on the tablet.
ANDREW
You called?
Reece and tamara look up.
REECE
Yes, I’m afraid so. It looks like the time we’ve been waiting for has arrived. Damarion’s back.
The three exchange surprised looks.
ASHLYN
After two years of nothing?
TRACE
Why would he come back now?
TAMARA
I’m not sure if it’s really him or not, but… there’s some weird energy fluctuations coming from some warehouses across the city. I can’t get an ID lock on the source, so you’re going to have to split up and check it out.
Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn are about to leave when the hanger door slides open and Chidra rushes in.
CHIDRA
Why didn’t anyone tell me there was an attack? Alright, Andrew, let’s go!
REECE
What about the zords? The Rangers are well trained- they can handle themselves!
CHIDRA
But, I am a motorcycle! You can’t beat that- besides, Kulgor’s got it covered!
Before anyone can stop him, he leaves. The rangers pause, unsure of what to do. Reece sighs in annoyance.
REECE
Just go- and I’m going to have a talk with that idiot when he gets back!
INT. VSHQ, GARAGE- DAY
The four rush in. Chidra turns into a motorcycle.
CHIDRA
Yeah! Cheetah Racer, online! Let’s beat some-
ANDREW
Yeah, yeah, yeah, you egotistic… thing. Let’s just go before they decide to leave early.
Andrew puts gets onto Chidra/ The Cheetah Racer. Ashlyn & Trace walk over to a black SUV and get inside. Ashlyn looks to Andrew.
ASHLYN
You ok?
ANDREW
Never better!
Andrew activates his morpher, spawning the glasses and hits the button on them. He swings his arm up to display the morpher and taps the watch face.
ANDREW
Vortex Shield, Pass on!
Andrew morphs into the Red Ranger. He leads out as the garage door opens. The SUV follows him out.
EXT. GAIA BOTANICALS- DAY
Andrew on his bike and the other two in the SUV head off and split up at the drive. Ryker comes running out of the store with Teryn close behind, but only sees the SUV.
RYKER
I don’t believe this! Did the just leave us here?
TERYN
Well, thank god I drove, then!
RYKER
Yeah.
The two head back inside, their pride injured.
EXT. SLATE CREEK, STREET- DAY
Andrew, on the Cheetah Racer, is heading towards a group of warehouses. He brings up his morpher before him and turns the dial, causing a hologram communications system to activate.
ANDREW
The warehouses are in sight. I’m heading in!
A hologram of Tamara appears with her tablet.
TAMARA
You’re orders are to perform recon for the moment. When we get all the date in from all three, we can plan an attack.
ANDREW
But, what if they-
REECE
Red Ranger, you have your orders- stick to them. If something unexpected happens, defense and/or tracking is authorized.
ANDREW
Fine.
Andrew hangs, up and revs the engine, speeding towards the warehouses.
EXT. MACROHARD COMPUTER FACTORY, STORAGE FACILITY- DAY
The SUV grinds to a halt outside. Trace hops out, turning to Ashlyn.
TRACE
Where are you heading to?
ASHLYN
They’re attacking another storage area on the opposite side of the complex- we’ll keep you informed!
Trace nods, shutting the door and racing to the factory, activating his morpher. The small visor folds out and spawns the glasses directly onto his face.
TRACE
Vortex Shield, Pass On!
Trace morphs into the Blue Ranger.
TRACE
VS-02, in position!
TAMARA (OS)
Excellent, Blue! Take a spot on the roof- there should be windows up top to monitor from.
EXT. MACROHARD COMPUTER FACTORY, PATENT WAREHOUSE- DAY
The SUV swerves hard into a parking space and Ashlyn leaps out, activating her morpher in the process and morphing into the Yellow Ranger.
ASHLYN
Vortex Shield, Pass On! Ok, Tamara, so where should we-
She suddenly halts, grabbing her head with a groan and almost falling over. A vision of Damarion & Enter attacking hurting her sister comes to her.
ASHLYN
Cassidy?
TAMARA (OS)
Ranger Yellow? Ranger Yellow, are you ok?
ASHLYN
Er, I’m fine. Just arriving on scene.
TAMARA (OS)
Good. We need scans of the arena first before we formulate a strategy. Also, I’ve placed system busters on the menu, link them to the breaker boxes before you take a vantage point, and I’ll hack the security mainframe to keep a watch on you.
ASHLYN
Right!
Ashlyn, Trace and Andrew tap their transponders and summon small clips with a beacon and wifi transmitter on them. Ashlyn finds her breaker box and uses her Goggle Dagger to cut the protective pipe open, then places the bug on the wires inside. She activates the hologram on her morpher and Tamara appears, working furiously on her tablet.
ASHLYN
Did it work?
TAMARA
Uhhhh… Yes! I’m in. Please, take your position- send the scans when ready.
Ashlyn nods, hanging up and running around the building.
EXT. MACROHARD COMPUTER FACTORY, STORAGE FACILITY- DAY
Trace races along a line of windows on the roof in a crouch. He finds one unlocked and sits down there, easing it open and gazing inside to find a small group of Soulless searching around inside.
TRACE
There’s not too many here… what’re they searching for?
REECE (OS)
After Vortex Co. shut down, their research was sold at auction. A government facility, AERTS, took the bulk of it and we acquired what we could. Macrohard Corp. and their chairman, Ethan James, were after certain computer technologies was had special built for out research. We thought it was a problem at first but, oddly, once they acquired them, James declared them off limits and had them placed in storage. He even hired ex-Silver Guardian members to head his security department at the Slate creek facility.
TRACE
A lot of good that did him. Scanning now.
Trace taps the side of his helmet and his visor begins scanning and building a map of the room with Soulless marked in red as “hostiles.â€
INT. VSHQ- INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
The scans from blue and yellow start coming in and Tamara brings them up on two of a display of flat screens on one of the walls. Reece and a small team of analysts check them up.
REECE
Look, there’s only five of the things at Trace’s location. But check Ashlyn’s.
TAMARA
What’s the count from Yellow’s scan?
ANALYST I
The scan isn’t complete yet, but it looks like there’s close to twenty of them working as a unit. What are those things anyway?
REECE
I don’t know. Enlarge and enhance.
One of the analysts comply, zooming in on one, switching from map to image and enhancing it, revealing the Soulless. Tamara gasps, bringing her hands to cover her mouth. Reece looks to her sadly.
REECE
One of Terry’s?
Tamara nods shakily, still in shock and near to tears.
REECE
Tamara, maybe you should-
ANALYST II
Red’s scan is coming online, now.
Tamara takes a few deep breaths, trying to bring herself under control.
TAMARA
No. No, I think I have to see this for myself.
EXT. SLATE CREEK LOCAL DIST. WAREHOUSES- DAY
Andrew finishes his scan as he watches the Soulless activity below from a third story balcony.
ANDREW
So what do we- hey?
As Andrew is trying to review the scan himself, he notices a new figure coming out of the warehouse with a small tank. It’s Enter.
ANDREW
Who are you, my friend.
Andrew taps his Transponder.
ANDREW
Goggle Dagger, Sight Mode.
The Transponder spawns the binoculars before him and drops them in his hand. Enter notices the glow above and smiles, switching to a heat-signature mode on his goggles. Andrew looks down with the binoculars and his visor program unites with the binocular program. He uses his hand to indicate a zoom in on Enter, then scans the image into his visor.
ANDREW
That guy has to be the leader… whoever he is. Better send it to HQ for analysis.
The image shrinks down to a tiny icon. His visor shows an animation of the icon being places inside an envelope, then a second one of the envelope being sent from a picture of his helmet to a picture of a laptop with the letters VSHQ across it’s screen. Suddenly, two white slashes of energy hit the balcony either side of him, cutting straight through it to the building wall and severing the part Andrew is crouched on.
ENTER
Well, don’t just hang around up there, monamie! Join the party!
The balcony collapses and Andrew falls three stories, but, due to the suit, lands safely in a crouch, steadying himself with a hand. Andrew looks up as Soulless surround him and menace him with their weapons. Enter smiles smugly and steps forward, head held high and arms behind his back.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Tamara and the analysts are checking the scans. Tamara is forcefully engrossing herself in her work. Reece looks at the projections.
REECE
Not a lot standing out here. Either this was separate missions based on priority, or… Yellow and Red might be diversions- there’s several at those locations and barely any at Blue’s. VS-02, you are authorized for attack. Be wary of possible traps, greater numbers may be hiding in wait for you!
TRACE (OS)
Roger! I’m going in!
REECE
Yellow, security is in place. We’ll make contact if anything goes wrong. Meanwhile, head to Blue’s location, there might be-
ANALYST II
Sir, incoming shot from Red.
REECE
Er… bring it up.
The image of Terry/ Enter appears on the flat screens and everyone in the room halts, awkwardly staring from the picture to Tamara. Tamara looks down, hiding her eyes.
TAMARA
So it is him. Terry wouldn’t do this… it’s Damarion. I’m sure of it.
She looks pleadingly to Reece. Reece finally nods.
REECE
Ok, we know now. Send strike teams to relieve Blue and Yellow and tell them to rendezvous with Red at-
ANALYST I
Um, sir?
REECE
What is it?
ANALYST I
It appears we’ve lost communication with all three Rangers.
Reece’s jaw drops in shock. It takes a moment for him to regain his composure.
REECE
Send a calvalry team to Red, immediately! I’m going after Trace and Ashlyn!
He heads out the door. Tamara brings up the alert system and a message starts playing over a PA system as guards begin mobilizing all over the base.
PA ALERT
All available squads form up. I repeat, all available squads form up. Possible attack on city grounds. Your superior officers will issue you with further instructions and GPS coordinates. All available squads, form up and move out.
EXT. SLATE CREEK LOCAL DIST. WAREHOUSES- DAY
ANDREW
Who are you?
ENTER
I’m sure someone will inform you soon enough… well, if you manage to get out of here. I… severed your communications with Vortex Shield. Looks like no help from Mr. Aladesco and his merry band of misfits.
ANDREW
So… where’s Damarion?
ENTER
Well, smart you! Unfortunately, that’s classified information. So… bright red jumpsuit… erratic energy readings… shiny helmet… you one of those Power Ranger things? Bah, what am I thinking. That outfit’s so bad, I’d swear you were on your way to a convention!
Andrew begins getting angry, balling his fists with a groan.
ENTER
Ooh- look at that. So, your suit reacts to your nervous system outputs… regulates your body’s internal and external condition according to the situation your brain perceives… So that’s how you can do all those crazy flips and kicks… survive a three story fall with nary a scratch. Please, continue your show. I’d like to learn all about it!
ANDREW
Sorry, buddy-
Andrew holds up his Goggle Dagger, flipping it into Dagger mode.
ANDREW (con’t)
-But the show’s over.
Enter walks around the perimeter of Soulless, Andrew turning to warily keep an eye on him. Enter wags his finger at Andrew.
ENTER
Tsk, tsk, tsk. I wouldn’t do that if I were you. You don’t know what these things are capable of.
ANDREW
You don’t know what I’m capable of either. Dayah!
Andrew rushes at Enter. Before the Soulless can react to save their leader, Andrew runs up on and flips high into the air. Enter doesn’t even flinch, instead watching expectantly with curiosity.
ANDREW
Goggle Dagger, full power!
His Goggle Dagger lights up with energy. He slashes at the Soulless below and the energy wave shoots from his weapon, damaging several of them. Andrew lands, dealing with the last three with two quick slashes, then turns to Enter, holding up his weapon and entering a battle crouch. Enter smiles humorlessly and robotic arms suddenly shoot out and whip Andrew across the lot. Enter changes his voice, emulating Andrew’s previous statement.
ENTER
“You don’t know what I’m capable of either.†Well, I must be going. Didn’t find what I was looking for, but-
Enter holds up the small tank.
ENTER (con’t)
-This has given me a bit of an idea. You’ll hear from me soon, I’m sure, contestee.
Enter begins walking away. Andrew rolls to a crouch and jumps to his feet.
ANDREW
Hey, come back here!
Andrew tries to follow him, but Enter suddenly teleports away, laughing in a mocking manner. Andrew is slightly taken aback and stops, confused. Chidra rushes in.
CHIDRA
What happened here? You ok?
ANDREW
I’m fine. But we’d better check on the others. Come on!
Chidra transforms back into cycle mode and Andrew climbs on, swerving around and driving off.
INT. MACROHARD COMPUTER FACTORY, STORAGE FACILITY- DAY
Trace leaps into the building, flipping several times and landing in the center of the room, his Snap Shooter at the ready. The Soulless begin rushing him and he shoots them all as they come, quickly taking out three- two in the isle and one that comes around the corner to see what is happening. Trace races to the nearest gap and fires at two others several isles down. One is taken out, but the other crouches, avoiding the shots. Trace takes cover behind an isle and summons his Goggle dagger, combining it with his Snap Shooter to form Vortex Fire BG-02. The last Soulless races down the isles toward his perceived location. As he draws closer, Trace leans out the isle, pulling back in quickly as the Soulless sends an energy wave from it’s blade at him. He spins back out, taking aim with his weapon and fires, taking out the Soulless. He races outside as Ashlyn arrives on scene.
ASHLYN
You done already?
TRACE
Yeah, I-
They duck as a blast ricochets off the door. They look up to see the other Soulless have followed Ashlyn and quickly surround the two. Ashlyn and Trace go back to back.
TRACE
Ready for this?
ASHLYN
Oh yeah!
The two break, charging into battle and taking the Soulless on. Ashlyn heads into an industrial area with large pipes and begins using them to keep the Soulless divided in smaller groups so she can take them on. Trace rushes through his group, leaping over, slashing, and kicking Soulless around. They regroup and try to shoot him as he comes across an outdoor dining area for the employees and knocks a table over, using it for cover. When the blasts stop, he leaps up with his Snap Shooter and runs for it, blasting several of them down. Ashlyn sees him and leaps for him and the two regroup.
ASHLYN
Vortex Fire, YH-03!
TRACE
Vortex Fire, GB-02!
The two aim into the remaining Soulless and fire, the blasts taking several of them out. The others dive out of the way, or crouch under the blast and regroup.
ASHLYN
What now?
TRACE
Those blasts were the best we can do, but they used up too much energy! We need a regeneration period before we can do that again.
ASHLYN
Suit power is depleted too. The energy fields are too weak to manipulate our electrical and gravitational energies-
TRACE
Meaning?
The Soulless begin closing in on them and they back up to a wall to protect themselves.
ASHLYN
Didn’t you read the manuals Tamara gave us? The suits link with our body’s natural electrical output to shield us from taking heavy external damage and also manipulates our natural gravitational fields, allowing us to do those high leaps and flips.
TRACE
So we can’t… crap!
ASHLYN
Well, we can still do this the old fashioned way!
TRACE
How long do you wager we’ll last if we’re outnumbered like this?
ASHLYN
Uh?
The two hold up a Goggle Dagger and Snap Shooter, waiting as the remaining Soulless, still enough to give them trouble, surround them and circle, looking for a weakness. Finally, one of them lunges and is suddenly blasted down. Trace and Ashlyn look up in surprise as Andrew races in. The Cheetah Racer launches itself into the air with a yell and Andrew blasts three more Soulless with his Snap Shooter before landing and grinding to a halt between them and his friends.
TRACE
Oh good, you made it.
ANDREW
I found out who’s behind this too. You guys ok?
ASHLYN
We are now.
CHIDRA
Then let’s finish this!
The Cheetah Racer transforms back into Chidra and poses alongside Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn. He pulls the wheels off his back and attaches them to his arms, creating formidable spinning weapons. He revs a few times, spinning them experimentally.
CHIDRA
I’ve got to love those enhancements Tamara gave me!
ANDREW
Then put them to good use. Rangers!
With battle cries, the four rush in and begin finishing the Soulless off. Chidra turns his feet into rollerblades and rides through them, punching and slashing with his tires. Andrew flips over one, shooting two behind him as he lands, then spins around and blasts the first one as it stands back up. Ashlyn swings her Goggle Dagger at one, but it catches it between the two blades of it’s weapon and tries to rip it out of her hand she grabs it’s arm and swings under it, kicking it’s legs out from under it and tossing it over her, freeing her weapon as she locks blades with another two who swing down at her. Trace is using both his weapons to attack on several fronts at once and sees Ashlyn. He shoots her assailants down, allowing her to get up. She flips to her feet and slashes the first one down for good as it recovers. Within short order, all the Soulless have been routed. As the team regroups, black SUVs start pouring in. VS agents climb out and head over to them, Reece at the head.
REECE
You four ok?
ANDREW
Yeah. Calvalry’s a little late.
REECE
We weren’t sure exactly where you all were- we lost all radio and GPS contact with you shortly after Andrew ID-ed these things’ commander.
The three tap their glasses.
RANGER SUIT SYSTEM
Powering down.
They demorph.
ASHLYN
So, who is it?
REECE
No one you know.
TRACE
But you do?
Reece eyes them warily, before turning back to the SUVs.
REECE
Meet me back at HQ. We have some things to discuss.
Andrew, Trace, Ashlyn and Chidra give each other confused looks. Ashlyn and trace head for their SUV while Chidra goes back into bike mode and Andrew climbs back on.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- DAY
Cassidy is wheeling around nervously. Damarion is free floating around the place, an angry groan escaping him and increasing in intensity.
DAMARION
Where is that buffoon!
The doors slide open and Enter enters.
ENTER
My apologies, monsieur.
DAMARION
Did you get it? The generator to open the vortex?
ENTER
I regret to say… non. I did not.
DAMARION
NO! WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN-
ENTER
Relax, relax… my lord, I think I’ve found another way- for now. You need soldiers in this world in order to take it over. You need energy in order to become stronger. Both of those things- in the form of your spirit minions- exist in your world… the question is how to get them here.
DAMARION
Obviously, the vortex!
ENTER
I thought so at first, but I don’t think we were going far enough outside the box. If we had the right technology and energy source, we could open a permanent door into your world and, with specifications, unleash your army in full corporeal form to reap the living… Although, with what we have, we can open tiny interdimensional wormholes, the problem being we can only bring one minion at a time before recharging and they can only come through as spirits-
DAMARION
Then how does that help me? If they have no bodies or forms in this world-
Enter laughs to himself, raising his arms to indicate the robotics lab around him.
ENTER
Don’t you remember? The spirits who came through before- the weaker ones who came with you… they possessed Terry’s machines and it worked perfectly. If I can pull them out of your world and contain them to transfer them into new, robotic bodies, they can accomplish your work just as- no, better than you would think possible!
Damarion considers the idea.
DAMARION
And you think you can do this?
ENTER
Give me twenty-four hours… and I know I can.
Enter smiles in delight. Damarion nods.
DAMARION
Do it.
Enter laughs to himself, bowing dramatically and gets to work.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Reece enters the room, followed by the now demorphed Andrew, Trace & Ashlyn. Tamara looks up expectantly.
REECE
Ok, everyone, out- this is a debriefing session, only those in command are allowed to stay. Chidra, we need you down there fixing those zords, pronto.
CHIDRA
Huh, what are you expecting a thirty story robot, now, or-
Tamara jumps up angrily and gets in his face.
TAMARA
The man Damarion has taken is a robotics designer. Before he disappeared two years ago, he was working on classified projects, one of which being a giant walking tank that could smash half a city apart before regular military protocols would be able to take it down- now get down there and finish the Vortex Vehicles, before-
CHIDRA
Ok, ok, I’m going. Oy!
Chidra heads for the door to the hanger and exits. Reece and Tamara turn to the Rangers.
ASHLYN
Tamara, are… are you ok?
TAMARA
I’m fine. Although, it’s now quite obvious that Damarion is behind this. I knew Terry, there’s no way he would do what he did today… unless he was being compelled by Damarion.
Andrew moves swiftly to Tamara, grabbing her by the shoulders and looking sympathetically into her eyes.
ANDREW
Don’t worry, Tamara. I got free. Maybe there’s hope for him yet.
ASHLYN
I just have one question… my sister. I- we- used her to remove Damarion from Andrew… If Damarion is back and… she isn’t… what happened to her?
TRACE
She’s bound to be around somewhere, right? Like Andrew said, we’re not giving up hope. Not yet. We’re going to fight this thing and we’re going to win.
Everyone shares determined looks.
REECE
To battle, then. War to the end.
Andrew backs back into formation with Trace and Ashlyn.
ANDREW
Correction, sir. To Damarion’s end!
A proud heroic moment ensues. Reece smiles to himself.
REECE
Tamara, call the analysts back! Get them scanning the city for any unusual activity- Rangers, prepare yourselves for battle. If Damarion wants a war, we’re going to give it to him!
Everyone salutes and heads off to their duties.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- NIGHT
Enter spends all night building and linking a machine to the Vortex device and designing a small card. He also builds a strange robot, different from the others. It is taller and red, covered with spikes that are tinged green at the top. He sticks the card into the Vortex Device and, with wires, attaches it to the new robot. Finally, dawn comes.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- DAY
Enter types up a program on his laptop, smiling in triumph to himself. Damarion appears behind him.
DAMARION
You finished ahead of schedule.
ENTER
I’m happy to inform you that, oui, I have succeeded.
DAMARION
I still don’t get it.
ENTER
The tank is a new experimental fuel source. A tiny drop of it at a time should be enough to sustain the type of vortex we need long enough to accomplish our task. The new upgrade I installed will retrieve a Spirit from your world and trap it in a data card, which will then immediately transfer it into the robot. Then comes the second part of my plan.
DAMARION
Which is?
Enter stops, heading over to a giant object covered by a tarp. He pulls it down revealing one of his giant robots from the earlier plans.
ENTER
I give you my pride and joy! Assuming The Viking doesn’t do the job the first time, part of his energy will be siphoned, multiplied and finally transferred to power up this baby… the Omega Soulless.
DAMARION
Then do it. Bring The Viking through.
Enter bow dramatically.
ENTER
Oui, oui, oui, but of course, monsieur.
He returns to his laptop activating the device. The metal ring shoots off blue sparks of energy the meet in the center, creating tiny temporal anomalies. A grey fog comes through and is sucked into the square pillar like device at the side. A light above the card goes from red to green and the energy is transferred into the robot, awakening it with a roar. Damarion watches, chuckling in contentment.
DAMARION
Yes! The world will soon be mine!
INT. SLATE CREEK COLLEGE DORMS, ASHLYN/ TERYN’S ROOM- DAWN
Ashlyn is tossing and turning in her sleep, having troubled visions of her sister’s treatment at the hands of Damarion once again. The last thing she remembers is Cassidy looking directly at her with soulful eyes and begging for help. Ashlyn springs awake to find that the sun has risen. As she tries to calm down and regain control of her breathing, however, a massive explosion occurs nearby, causing Ashlyn to jump in fright, falling out of bed.
ASHLYN
Dah!
She springs back to her feet as Teryn jumps awake also.
TERYN
What was that?
ASHLYN
I don’t know, I-
Ashlyn looks out to see fires in the distance.
ASHLYN
-I’ve got to go!
Ashlyn suddenly rushes outside. Teryn seems put out by her leaving and doesn’t know if she should follow or stay.
EXT. SLATE CREEK COLLEGE, DORM BUILDING- DAY
Ashlyn makes it outside to find a large crowd already there, watching the activity in the distance. Ashlyn pushes through them until she finds Trace as well.
TRACE
Ashlyn?
ASHLYN
Trace? Trace, what’s going on?
TRACE
I just got off the phone with Andrew and Tamara… it’s them. They want us to head out now! Come on!
The two break the crowd and head off toward the parking lot. After they’re far enough away, they activate their morphers, spawning the glasses directly onto their faces.
ASHLYN & TRACE
Vortex Shield, Pass On!
ANIMATION: As they stand on a black background, LED animations of a gorilla and hare appear on their morpher screens as they hold their arms up. The pictures rise from their morphers and condense into colored spirit orbs which flit around them. They try to keep track of them with their eyes, but the orbs zoom off into the distance. Trace & Ashlyn take off after them as the ground slowly goes from flat to almost vertical, causing them to run faster. At the last moment, they leap, grasping the orbs in their hands. The orbs burst into energy, surrounding them and forming their suits. They fall to flat ground below, landing before dynamic metallic VS symbols and pose. Ashlyn’s is partially a molten yellow color while Trace’s is a super-heated indigo.
Trace and Ashlyn head off towards the fires in the distance.
TRACE
VS-02, Blue Gorilla Vortex Ranger!
ASHLYN
VS-03, Yellow Hare Vortex Ranger!
EXT. SLATE CREEK, STREET- DAY
Andrew is riding the Cheetah Racer into battle. He activates his morpher, transforming into the Red Ranger.
ANDREW
VS-01, Red Cheetah Vortex Ranger!
E revs the engine and pulls into a wheelie.
ANDREW
Let’s do this!
CHIDRA
You got it, Red!
They pick up speed and zoom off towards the danger.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Tamara, still half asleep and in pajamas, is working furiously on her computers. She talks to the Rangers through her Bluetooth headset.
TAMARA
Emergancy and Fire Containment officials are responding. We’re sending a team to clear them and all other civilians from the battle zone so until you three deal with the source of the issue!
ANDREW (OS)
Understood!
TRACE (OS)
Roger that!
ASHLYN (OS)
We’ll take him!
Tamara pauses, sighing and looking down into the hangar where Chidra and Kulgor are putting the finishing touches on the VV-01 Cheetah Chaser.
TAMARA
Good luck, Rangers.
Suddenly, an alert goes off on her Tablet. Confused, she opens the file.
TAMARA
What is that?
INT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
The Viking is using flamethrowers to set things on fire. He is surrounded by a large squad of Alpha Soulless (The human-sized minions) who are using their weapons to blast apart anything in sight. The Viking laughs in victory. Most humans are out of the area. VS Vans pull in and teams set up a perimeter, helping whoever is left to escape.
THE VIKING
Aw, why would you ruin our fun?
He begins advancing on them. The men hold their ground, warily.
THE VIKING
Vortex Shield, huh? My master told me about you! Now, where’s those pesky Rangers I’ve been hearing so much about?
ANDREW
Right here!
The Viking turns as Andrew ramps over him on the bike and fires on him with his Snap Shooter. The VS agents use the distraction to back off with the civilians. Andrew lands and turns to face The Viking, who seems not to have been incredibly hurt by the blasts.
ANDREW
Oh, that can’t be good.
TRACE
Andrew?
ASHLYN
I found him! Over here!
Trace and Ashlyn rush in and take positions either side of Andrew, who climbs off his bike. Chidra transforms back into himself.
ANDREW
Any idea who this guy is?
THE VIKING
A servant of the almighty Damarion! In life, I was called Lief Kragson… but when I joined my master in his world, that life became nothing but a shadow… to my master’s enemies, I am known simply as The Viking!
TRACE
Life Kragson? As in THE Lief Kragson?
ANDREW
You know this guy?
TRACE
I’m an archaeology major, remember? This guy was a widely feared Viking ruler. He started as a warrior and rose up through the ranks through brutality and bloodshed, eventually becoming a Viking king of sorts. He was most known for subjecting his people to a rather unhealthy religion- worshiping a spirit that demanded sacrifice and gave nothing but a stay of his wrath in return.
ASHLYN
Damarion.
The Viking laughs.
THE VIKING
It’s good to know that I made an impression on the world! That those like you still know and fear my name!
CHIDRA
Hey, buddy, you might want to rethink that fear part!
ANDREW
Let’s finish this. A guy like you should be no problem for us.
THE VIKING
Oh really!
He summons energy into his flamethrowers and fires a blast at them. They dive for cover, Ashlyn and Trace being throw into walls and Andrew sent flying into the air. Chidra, however, zooms through, avoiding the blasts and hits The Viking square center, sending him flying. Andrew uses all his willpower to steady himself, landing on his feet, but bringing up a shower of sparks from them as he slides to a halt.
ANDREW
Ow! I’ve had enough of this! Vortex Fire!
He summons the Goggle Dagger from his Transponder and combines it with his Snap Shooter. He runs back to the site of the blast, searching for Lief. The Viking appears, climbing to his feet out of the dust and firing twin jets of flame at him, which he narrowly avoids by diving to the right. Chidra, Ashlyn & Trace regroup with him and help him up.
THE VIKING
Soulless, attack!
ASHLYN
What now?
ANDREW
I have a plan, we-
Their radios go off. Confused, Andrew answers.
ANDREW
This is Red. What is it base?
TAMARA (OS)
This is bad! It looks like that thing’s life is being partially drained to something else.
ANDREW
One of those giant robots you were talking about?
CHIDRA
Oh great! We never did get the Cheetah Chaser to full power!
TAMARA (0S)
And now you know why we were berating you! We were depending on you for that-
CHIDRA
It’s not at full power yet, but it still works! We just can’t access Warrior Mode yet!
ASHLYN
What are guys talking about?
The Soulless are upon them and the team scatters, fighting their own battles against them.
ANDREW
What can we do?
CHIDRA
Listen, Tamara! Tell Kulgor to keep working on it until we absolutely need it! It just needs a few more adjustments!
TAMARA (OS)
I can’t guarantee you guys long! I’m setting up a countdown to the Omega Soulless’ activation. When it reaches zero, I’m sending it out, whether it’s done or not!
The countdown starts on their morpher faces. Andrew takes a quick glance as he fights.
ANDREW
Seven minutes and counting!
CHIDRA
Seven minutes! What are we supposed to do in seven minutes, that’s not long enough to finish the zord!
ANDREW
We’ll do what we can!
Andrew contacts trace & Ashlyn via radio.
ANDREW
Trace, Ashlyn, activate your Vortex Fires! The primary target is The Viking, but I lost him in all this. Set visors to scan for him, when you find him, alert to his location, so we can finish this!
TRACE
Right!
ASHLYN
Got you, Red!
The rangers comply with the order and continue fighting, scanning for The Viking. The Viking is hiding among the Soulless, shifting position and waiting for a chance to attack one of the Rangers or Chidra. The countdown is at five minutes and counting. Enter watches from a nearby rooftop. He slides a card through a scanner on his laptop and types up a chart showing the vitals of the Omega Soulless.
ENTER
80% and growing. Almost time for the poor, poor city of Slate Creek to say au revoir!
The rangers continue fighting. Three minutes are left when The Viking finally finds an opening and tries to strike Andrew from behind.
CHIDRA
Look out!
Chidra zooms past Andrew and tackles The Viking down. Andrew spins around in surprise.
ANDREW
Found him! Rangers, lock target!
Ashlyn and Trace regroup with Andrew as The Viking throws Chidra at them. They duck and dive out of the way and come back up, aiming their Vortex Fires at The Viking.
ALL THREE
Vortex Fire, Full Power!
They all shoot at once, hitting The Viking square in the chest and sending him sliding backward, damaging several Soulless behind him in the process. The blasts finally halt and The Viking groans, somewhat confused. He begins sparking and collapses to the ground, exploding as the three pose in triumph. Chidra climbs to his feet, dusting himself off.
CHIDRA
Oh, thank you! Thank you, it was nothing! I just saved your miserable lives is all!
Enter watches the scene in displeasure, his face twisted as if he has a bad taste in his mouth.
ENTER
No worries, no worries. We’ll just have to do this… the old fashioned way.
He types up and The Viking’s soul floats out of the rubble and shoots into the sky, much to the rangers’ surprise and dismay. A portal opens up in the sky and the Omega Soulless drops out. The Viking’s soul enters it and it transforms, gaining flamethrowers on it’s arms. The single eye flashes as the Viking takes over.
THE VIKING
I’m back, Rangers!
He swings his arm around, flaming buildings around him with fire so hot it melts them, metal, glass, stone and all.
ENTER
There we go! Much more like it!
Enter closes his laptop, claps his hands once as he savors the moment. He walks off and teleports away. The counter reaches zero.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
The alarm goes off as the counter hits zero. She jumps up and heads to the hanger, hitting a page button.
TAMARA
The Omega Soulless is attacking! Send the VV-01 into action immediately!
The VV-01 Cheetah Chaser activates.
EXT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
The Rangers watch in dismay as The Viking burns their city to the ground. Chidra shakes Andrew’s shoulder before transforming back into bike mode.
CHIDRA
Come on, Andrew! Let’s go!
ANDREW
Right!
Andrew climbs on. Ashlyn catches his arm, demorphing her helmet.
ASHLYN
Are you sure you can do this?
ANDREW
Almost positive.
TRACE
What does that mean?
Blasts echo around them. They look up to see more Alpha Soulless funneling into the streets.
ANDREW
You two deal with them! I’ll stop The Viking… once and for all!
Andrew rides off. Ashlyn remorphs her helmet on as she and trace turn to the new threat.
TRACE
This time… let’s not do what we did last time.
ASHLYN
Definitely not!
The two take stances and race into battle. As Andrew rides down the street, a GPS tracker on his morpher beeps louder and faster. Suddenly, as he rounds a corner, the tank sized VV-01 drives up behind him, opening a door in the grill and lowering a ramp behind him. Andrew watches it warily.
ANDREW
Ok… let’s go!
Andrew puts it in neutral and gets sucked up the ramp into the zord. The ramp & door closes and a red & gold cheetah head pops out, it’s eyes glowing as it roars.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
Andrew climbs off the bike and goes to sit in a chair across the room. Chidra transforms back into himself and merges with a computer on his side. The two slide together and a door opens up, sending them into the cockpit. Andrew hits a button, syncing the system with his morpher and activating it. He looks down at Chidra’s face, which is now the steering wheel.
ANDREW
Uh… what is this?
CHIDRA
I’m the steering wheel. Come on, get to driving before that thing destroys the city.
ANDREW
Yeah, but you’re… right in my…
CHIDRA
Go on?
ANDREW
Never mind- let’s just go.
Andrew activates the zord. His visor lights up with gauges and displays that he can cycle through with his hand as if they were projected in the air before him.
ANDREW
Ok, VV-01, Cheetah Chaser, online!
CHIDRA
Vehicle Mode!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The Viking turns to watch as the Cheetah Chaser heads his way. He chuckles in amusement to himself and aims blasts of fire at it. The car swerves left and right, narrowly avoiding the blasts.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
Whoa! Did you catch the energy readings on those blasts?
CHIDRA
Stronger than I would have thought.
ANDREW
Stronger than anything anyone of us thought!
CHIDRA
Must have something to do with the robotics. This Terry fellow did have two years to perfect his designs.
ANDREW
What do we have to stop him with?
CHIDRA
Oh, your run-of-the-mill missiles… we can launch a spoiler blast.
ANDREW
Spoiler blast?
CHIDRA
Just aim and watch the magic happen!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The VV-01 drifts through a supermarket parking lot, avoiding another blast as it tries to lock onto The Viking.
ANDREW (OS)
I think we got it! Ok, go!
CHIDRA (OS)
Firing now!
The Spoiler on the back of the car lights up with red energy. It slides all the way to the right and pivots on the centerpiece, pointing straight for The Viking. It fires, shooting the energy at the Viking as the kick-back sends the spoiler backwards through the centerpiece to point the other direction. It lights up with energy again and spins back around to point at The Viking. They fire several times, landing blows on their adversary, knocking him to the ground.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
Yeah, we got him!
CHIDRA
Uh… I wouldn’t celebrate yet!
ANDREW
Why’s that- oh.
Andrew watches as the Viking climbs back to his feet, rising out of the smoke and dust and laughs.
EXT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
Trace and Ashlyn are holding off the Soulless as best they can, but they keep pouring into the street from alleys and side roads Trace fights his way back over to Ashlyn.
TRACE
How you doing?
ASHLYN
Not too bad, I-
They pause as they notice several of the Soulless lining up several feet away.
TRACE
Ashlyn… what’re they doing?
ASHLYN
I’m not sure…
The Soulless level their blades at them and the ones fighting Trace and Ashlyn retreat out of the way. Ashlyn uses her visor to zoom in on the weapons, now noticing that there is a small blaster barrel in between the blades.
ASHLYN
He upgraded! They have guns now!
TRACE
Oh crap!
The two dive out of the way, rolling in opposite directions, as the squad of Soulless fire on where they used to be.
TRACE & ASHLYN
Snap Shooters!
As they roll out of the way on their stomachs, they pull out their Snap Shooters and fire several times on the Soulless firing squad, forcing those remaining to scatter. Ashlyn and Trace leap to their feet, activating their Goggle Daggers and regroup as the Soulless begin circling again.
TRACE
This is not good!
ASHLYN
I’ll second you there!
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
Missiles, fire!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
Several missile slots fold out of the sides and front of the VV-01, sending a barrage at The Viking. They’re enough to knock him back a step when they hit, but barely do any damage.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
What now?
CHIDRA
We’re going to have to try something else. We can’t enter Warrior Mode yet, but we can go into Ani Mode. That’ll give us a bit more maneuverability.
ANDREW
Yeah, sure, if you think it’ll work!
Andrew scrolls through his gauges until he finds one displaying a blueprint status of the zord. He selects the Ani Mode option underneath and the blueprint transforms from a Sports car to a cheetah.
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
Four hatches (two on the hood & two on the roof) spring open, folding out into four legs pointing straight in the air.
ANDREW & CHIDRA (OS)
Activating Ani Mode Cheetah!
The legs fold to the sides, taking most of the top of the car with them. Thrusters launch it into the air and the legs fold underneath. The skin of the car, now mostly reversed has gone from black to red with gold spots. The spoiler fold into the tail. The cheetah lands, crouching low and giving a warning growl as it’s eyes flash dangerously.
THE VIKING
Aw! Look at the cute little pussycat! Die!
He shoots his flamethrowers at the zord, but it leaps out of the way, racing around the city blocks and easily avoiding The Viking.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
Good! It’s working!
CHIDRA
I don’t know how long we can fool him though! If we don’t get rid of him fast, he’s bound to think of a way to stop us!
ANDREW
Right… uhhhh? Er… come on.
CHIDRA
Ok, while you do that, I’ll scan for weaknesses! Oy!
ANDREW
What! I’m trying! Um…
EXT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
Trace is handling himself well. He takes out a couple Soulless before one gets close enough to engage him. He blocks a few swings and kicks before it gets past his defenses and karate chops him in the stomach with it’s weapon. Trace is knocked back a step with the force as it knocks the wind from him. In desperation and anger, he grabs the arm, twists it around, kicks the Soulless’ legs out from under it and slashes at the back of it’s neck with his Goggle Dagger, destroying it. He stumbles, trying to catch his breath and pulls out his Snap Shooter again, blasting at two Soulless rushing him from the front. He turns and fires a third blast, taking out one who is sneaking up on Ashlyn. Ashlyn is spooked by the close call and ducks, narrowly avoiding a slash from the weapon of the Soulless she is fighting. She twists the arm against its chest, throws it back a step and runs up it. Ashlyn kicks off the Soulless, back flipping in the air and slashing at it as she lands, destroying it.
ASHLYN
Thanks!
Trace looks to her as he holds his chest, coughing as he gets his wind back. A Soulless is coming up behind him.
TRACE
No problem.
Ashlyn blasts the Soulless as it’s about to strike, surprising Trace. He looks around wildly, trying to figure out what just happened. Ashlyn flashes him a thumbs up.
ASHLYN
Now we’re even!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The Cheetah Chaser steps out from a skyscraper behind The Viking, who is looking for any sign of movement in the opposite direction.
ANDREW (OS)
Over here, smart guy!
The Viking spins around, firing at them again, but they race off and he misses. He roars in frustration and sets off in their direction to stop them. The Cheetah Chaser dashes behind a warehouse and crouches low.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
We should be ok here for a moment. Got anything yet?
CHIDRA
I think so- what about those flamethrowers? He’s storing some sort of flammable liquid, we just have to fire at the right spot and blow the storage tanks!
ANDREW
Great! That’s genius, I’ll
THE VIKING (OS)
There you are!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The Viking has found their hiding spot and levels his flamethrowers at them. The Cheetah Chaser jumps up and tries to run off, but this time, The Viking hits them, knocking them across the city and through several buildings. The Viking begins approaching them.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
Andrew shields his eyes from the glare of the fire as it dissipates. Alarms are going off all around him.
ANDREW
What’s going on?
CHIDRA
We’re in big trouble! He damages the one of the leg motors and collapsed the external shielding system from the heat! One more blast like that, and we’re goners!
Andrew sits up, gripping the sticks on either side of Chidra’s head tightly as he watches The Viking approach.
CHIDRA
Andrew are you listening?... Andrew?!?
ANDREW
Fire up another spoiler blast! I’ll switch to thermal and locate those tanks you were talking about!
CHIDRA
Ok! I hope this works!
ANDREW
I hope so too!
Andrew taps the side of his helmet, activating a thermal scan of The Viking. The glare of the heat coming from the actual flamethrowers is offsetting the chart and he can’t see past it. The Viking is getting closer.
ANDREW
Come on!
He adjusts the image, bringing it into a tighter focus. The Viking lifts his arms, aiming at them. Finally, Andrew notices a colder spot a few feet up the arms and sets the aim for it.
ANDREW
FIRE NOW!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The tail is already lit up with energy. It adjusts aim and fires, hitting the right arm’s tank and causing it to explode. The Viking is carried backward with the force and falls to one knee. Burning shrapnel goes everywhere, even splintering the rest of the body itself. The Viking looks up at them.
THE VIKING
If I go down… I’m taking you with me!
He aims his other flamethrower at them.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
CHIDRA
On your count!
Andrew starts to say it, but changes his mind as the second flamethrower begins heating up. He adjusts his aim.
ANDREW
Right into the barrel! FIRE!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
As the explosive gas catches, they fire a second blast, which cuts right through the fire and enters the barrel of the flamethrower. The fire envelops the Cheetah Chaser. The blast hits the second tank, causing it to blow the other arm open. The exploding gas escapes through the hole and hits The Viking directly in it’s single eye. The Viking yells out as it melts through and he falls back, exploding.
EXT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
Trace and Ashlyn are still fighting the Soulless when the explosion happens. Everyone jumps in shock and turn to se the fireball rising into the sky in the distance. The Soulless suddenly stop, seeming to be unsure of what to do.
TRACE
Ready to finish them off?
ASHLYN
Let’s do it!
They’re about to when one of them makes a sudden hyperactive series of buzzes and static noises, waving his arms in the air. One by one, they all do the same thing and begin retreating back to where they came from, disappearing in an ultraviolet flash of energy. Trace and Ashlyn make a move to try to stop them when Reece contacts them on the radio.
REECE (OS)
Leave them, they’re retreating for now.
TRACE
But, what if they come back?
TAMARA (OS)
Rangers! Hurry to Andrew’s coordinates, immediately… he’s in danger.
Ashlyn looks off towards the explosion.
ASHLYN
You don’t mean?
They share a look and race off towards the explosion.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
Andrew is slumped over the control console as sparks burst from equipment around him. He demorphs, the glasses sliding down his face. Chidra also appears to be deactivated, but his eyes suddenly begin to half-heartedly light up.
EXT. EXPLOSION SITE- DAY
Trace and Ashlyn arrive on scene to see VS personnel crowding around, clearing away the rubble of the battle and trying to put the zord fire out. Reece is there. Trace and Ashlyn rip the glasses off, demorphing and approach him.
ASHLYN
No!
TRACE
What happened?
REECE
The Vortex Vehicles weren’t ready to go into battle yet. We’re going to have a hell of a time repairing them!
TRACE
What about the one driving it?
Reece looks at them sadly.
REECE
If he remained in suit, I think we can get him out. I can’t say much for Chidra, although it appears we’ll have to repair him too.
TRACE
Oh! Thank you!
Trace backs off, trying to calm himself down.
ASHLYN
We’ll have to? What does that mean?
REECE
I guess they don’t trust us. Remember that they wouldn’t let anyone near the hanger to help them out? Apparently, the idiots created a contingency plan so we couldn’t “get rid of them.†They designed the Vortex Vehicles so they only work if they’re plugged in, and did it in a way so that we’d have to completely rip the things apart to fix the problem- something we don’t have the luxury of time for.
ASHLYN
But there’s only two of them. What about mine?
REECE
I guess they didn’t think that one through. Looks like the Megazord isn’t going online any time soon.
Reece begins pacing. Ashlyn steps back to hang out with Trace.
ASHLYN
We’ll get him out. You know that.
TRACE
But what if-
VS AGENT I
Look!
Everyone look up as a figure marches out of the fire. They all watch in awe, holding their breath. As the smoke clears, it turns out to be Chidra, carrying Andrew out of the wreckage. Everyone exclaims relief all at once and race to see him as Chidra hands the still unconscious Andrew off to some medics. They crowd around as the medics work on him. Finally, the medic stops, standing and approaching Ashlyn, Trace & Reece warily.
VS MEDIC
He’s ok. He’ll live.
Everyone lets out the breaths they were holding in and express their gratitude. Chidra shrugs to them.
CHIDRA
You’re welcome! Guess it’s a good thing to have me around after all, huh?
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Everyone is lined up, watching the screens which show the footage of the battle. The main monitor focuses on Terry/ Enter.
TAMARA
He seems to be calling himself Enter now-
ANDREW
Makes sense.
Everyone looks to him, confused.
ANDREW
When Damarion possessed me before, he used a hologram off of the computer to lure me in. The hologram called itself Enter too.
TAMARA
Sounds like Damarion. He’d be sick enough to find that amusing.
Reece walks over to her, laying a hand on her shoulder.
REECE
How many times do we have to tell you? We’ll get him back, Tamara.
Tamara nods sadly. Reece turns back to the others.
REECE
The main thing now is to prepare. Damarion is back- and with the full cooperation of a technological genius at that. We don’t know what he’s capable of… he could strike any place at any time… we were also able to discover that the canister Enter stole from the warehouse contains an experimental form of energy saving fuel that was bought by local investors- we must therefore assume that he might later decide he needs more and label production sites of this fuel as possible targets.
TAMARA
Plus the zords.
Everyone turns to her as she looks down into the hanger below. Chidra and Kulgor, their secret out, now have a full team working with them to finish the zords. VV-02 & VV-03 are finally shaping up. VV-01 is being rebuilt standing upright in warrior mode.
TAMARA
We should put as much effort as possible into finishing up the zords. If Terry was able to create one of those quote-unquote Omega Soulless’ he’s fully capable of making another.
She turns to back to them.
TAMARA (con’t)
Don’t worry, though. We’re not taking any more shenanigans from Chidra and Kulgor. Hopefully, VV-01 will be rebuilt and VV-02 will be fully operational before Damarion and T… Enter strike again.
Tamara becomes incredibly interested in her Tablet and heads for the hanger entrance, exiting the room. Reece turns to the others.
REECE
Well… I guess that’s everything. Rangers, dismissed.
They salute and exit, heading down the hall and stopping on a golden inlaid VS symbol with a GB inscribed on it in the middle of some sort of atrium. They wave to a security guard at a desk who hits a secret button and the whole floor panel rises up towards the ceiling, where a tunnel suddenly opens up.
INT. GAIA BOTANICALS, LOCKER ROOM- DAY
The floor slides open and the panel rises through, depositing Andrew, Trace & Ashlyn in the locker room of the store above. They stroll out into the sales floor.
INT. GALA BOTANICALS- DAY
Ryker enters the store and looks up at them, confused.
RYKER
Hey! Where have you guys been? I saw you all leave in the truck before, and-
ANDREW
Making deliveries. Trace & Ashlyn decided to come along so we could catch up.
RYKER
But, what about-
ASHLYN
The catch was that we had to help. We didn’t think you would’ve wanted to.
TRACE
Sorry we didn’t tell you, Andrew’s boss was whipping the poor guy into a frenzy.
Ryker nods absently.
RYKER
Well, uh… nice to see you back.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- NIGHT
Enter is working on a new prototype on his computer. Damarion watches from behind, Cassidy trembling at his feet.
DAMARION
The last one was a failure! Make this one better.
ENTER
I wouldn’t try again if I thought it was a bad idea. We came close, we just need another tactic… maybe with some added energy…
DAMARION
What added energy?
ENTER
Tenir a l’instant, monsieur. I’m thinking.
The monitor shows blueprints for some sort of hypodermic needle robot.
INT. ASHLYN & TERYN’S DORM- NIGHT
Ashlyn is curled up in bed, thinking about the premonitions of her sister.
ASHLYN
I will save you, sweetie… I swear.
TERYN
Who are you talking to?
Ashlyn looks up in surprise to see Teryn come back from the bathroom in pajamas.
ASHLYN
Wha- oh… nothing. Just myself.
FADE TO BLACK…
Episode III
Two Years On…
EXT. SLATE CREEK COLLEGE CAMPUS- DAY
It is the end of summer and everyone is flocking back to the college campus, meeting back up with each other and talking excitedly about another year at college. A title card pops up reading “Two Years Later…â€
Ryker’s van parks along the road in front of the campus lawn and Ryker and Trace climb out.
RYKER
Here we are, another year at the fine academy- Slate Creek University!
TRACE
Yeah, I can’t believe it’s senior year already! Feels like we started only yesterday.
RYKER
Nope- that was three years ago. You’re forgetting those two quiet years where nothing happened after the… Roof incident which will be left unexplained.
TRACE
Yeah… so you going to help me get our stuff inside, or not?
Ryker hesitates.
RYKER
Er… Hey, where’d Ashlyn and Teryn get to, I wonder?
Trace opens the back of the van and starts assessing the situation and sorting his stuff from Ryker’s.
TRACE
I dunno. They were right behind us. Though, if Teryn mysteriously disappears, that’ll be… absolutely… amazing.
RYKER
She’s still dogging you?
TRACE
Oh, just every waking moment.
Trace begins pulling out bags and handing them to Ryker, who doubles over with the weight.
RYKER
Gah! After… so many years… you’d think she’d move on… or at least give up!
Trace turns around with more bags, eyeing Ryker in amusement.
TRACE
Yeah you’d think… you ok, man?
RYKER
Yeah! Never better… brosky!
TRACE
Yeah, well, on your way to take that phrase back to the nineties, would you drop those bags off at my dorm?
RYKER
Very f… hey, look, it’s your lover!
Trace looks up as a sedan car pulls up behind them. Ashlyn and Teryn yell out excitedly and wave to them through open windows from the front seats.
TRACE
Hey, Ashlyn! Teryn. Where have you guys been?
TERYN
McDonalds run, sorry!
ASHLYN
We would’ve got you something, but we didn’t have the money-
Ashlyn runs up, hugging trace and whispering in his ear.
ASHLYN
No, actually, I had to hold her back- she was like a friggin’ lion on scent!
TRACE
Yeah, she usually is-
The two break and trace addresses Teryn.
TRACE (con’t)
So… you!
TERYN
Hey, handsome! Oh, can you help us get our stuff back to the dorm? We’re on the third floor and some of this stuff- Ashlyn’s books- is pretty heavy.
ASHLYN
My books? What about all the souvenirs you picked up on your world tour?
TERYN
Oh, it’s not as bad as your books!
RYKER
World tour?
ASHLYN
Teryn’s a rich valley girl turned wiccan- every summer her daddy takes her somewhere special- this summer, being her last before graduation, he LITERALLY took her around the world. Go! Look!
Teryn is flustered as Ryker attempts to check, but Trace stops him.
TRACE
Priorities, man. Priorities.
RYKER
Yeah! Whatever you say, Trace!
Ryker begins slowly dragging his bags towards their dorm building. Trace, Ashlyn and Teryn soon follow with their own things, having considerably less trouble than Ryker.
RYKER
So, where’s Andrew anyway? I thought he said he’d meet us up here to help carry our stuff in.
ASHLYN
Oh! I totally forgot, but he called this morning and said Mr. Aladesco needs him working today. The store is doing all the floral arrangements for the homecoming parties at the local high schools and wouldn’t let him take the day off.
RYKER
Oh, that freak! You know, for a florist, they sure work Andrew to death! Why’d he even work there anyway?
TRACE
The pay. It’s absolutely amazing for a florist- he gets $15.70 per hour- there’s no way he can find a better job anywhere around here.
RYKER
Jeez! I might go to work there- I’ll pay off my student loans in, like, three minutes!
They all laugh.
ASHLYN
Well, he wanted us to head over there after we get situated, if you’re all-
TRACE
Yeah.
RYKER
I’m in! I was back home in India all summer and I’ve been looking forward to talking to you guys in three dimensions-
TRACE
-As preferred to Skype?
ASHLYN
Teryn?
TERYN
Oh! Yeah, sure. I think I need a few herbs replaced- they should be having their annual fall sale… and, I get the bonus of Tracey being there!
Teryn attempts to snuggle up with Trace, but he pulls his arm out of her grasp with an irritated clearing of his throat. Ashlyn gets the message and rushes around to Teryn, engaging her in conversation. Trace and Ryker share a look, Trace rolling his eyes and Ryker smiles warmly. The group splits in two again and they head off to refurnish their dorms.
INT. GAIA BOTANICALS, LOCKER ROOM- DAY
Andrew ties on a flamboyant apron and puts on an equally flamboyant baseball cap, a serious look on his face. He walks to the door to the main part of the store and takes a deep purging breath, preparing for the hell beyond. He exits.
INT. GAIA BOTANICALS- DAY
Andrew enters the sale floor which is completely flooded with excited, expectant customers going about their business. He goes behind the counter and starts trying to address angry customers, purchases and questions all at once.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- DAY
Terry pulls open a large warehouse door, entering the dark laboratory, only he’s a bit different from before. He is still wearing the white goggles, but he and his clothes appear worn and bedraggled. He walks across the warehouse covered in pieces of half finished robotics and approaches a folding table with a laptop on it in front of a set of boxes similar to a voting booth and a half assembled circular device. He begins typing on the computer as a foggy spirit approaches from behind. His voice causes Terry to jump in fright.
DAMARION
Enter! Have you finished yet?
ENTER (Terry)
Just about, monsieur, just about! I just need to add the finishing touches on the program, and-
DAMARION
Not them! You know what I mean.
Terry, now Enter, spins around to face Damarion, backing up against the table.
ENTER
The Vortex? No- we don’t have the proper technology at our disposal- I can’t find your home yet, let alone open a doorway to-
DAMARION
Excuses!
ENTER
But, master, I will! I will, soon, I swear!
DAMARION
How?
ENTER
We’ll just have to steal the technology.
Damarion snorts in derision.
DAMARION
You? Steal?
ENTER
Not me!
Enter turns back around, typing on the computer as he repeats “not me’ to himself over and over again. He finally finishes and looks up at the voting booth boxes feverishly.
ENTER
Them!
The boxes open and robotic arms haul out red humanoid robots with helmet-like heads and visors instead of eyes. Enter types in a password and electricity travels through the arms into the robots, activating them.
ENTER
May I introduce your new army… of Soulless minions!
DAMARION
If they have no souls, what use are they?
ENTER
Wait and see, master… wait and see!
The Soulless spin up double bladed punching knives in their hands and make electrical static, sparking noises for voices. They group together, monitoring for a threat and in battle crouches. A slow smile comes forcefully to Enter’s face. In the corner, a small yellow rabbit-like robot watches.
CASSIDY
Oh no! I have to get out of here!
Cassidy makes a dodge for the exit, but Enter & Damarion see her.
DAMARION
Stop her!
ENTER
At once!
Enter casts his hand out and clawed robotic arms shoot out of his sleeve. His eyes light up in a robotic red as the arms grab Cassidy, lifting her in the air and pulling her back to Damarion.
CASSIDY
Let me go!
DAMARION
Never! You tried to kill me… and I want you to suffer eternally for that! You will stay at my side until you see Vortex Shield… your sister… and her friends suffer and die in agony for resisting the might of the all powerful Damarion! Remember that, and get those foolish ideas of escape out of your head! It’ll never happen… NEVER!
Cassidy continues to squirm and struggle, but to no avail. Enter turns to the Soulless.
ENTER
Now that that’s taken care of… there’s something we need. Are you up for getting it for us?
The Soulless shake with perceived excitement at the chance to serve their masters. Enter smiles again, nodding.
ENTER
Ce magnifique- let’s get to work, shall we!
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Tamara is doing some work on her computer. She transfers the files onto a tablet and walks across the room to a striped metal wall and hits a button. The stripes turn out to be blinds over a window looking down into a large hangar with three tank-sized vehicles in various stages of completion. Chidra and Kulgor, now fully rebuilt, are working on a red and black vehicle that looks like a sports car, but is the size of a tank. Tamara watches their progress for a while as Chidra reprimands Kulgor for doing something stupid. Tamara shakes her head in reproach and is about to head down when the door opens and Reece enters.
REECE
Tamara. How’re the zords coming?
TAMARA
The Vortex Vehicles are not going- those two refuse to let anyone else near them, and on top of that they can’t even decide what they should be doing themselves. Look!
Reece approaches and watches the two berating each other. He slams his hands down on the window frame.
REECE
Idiots! We need those online before Damarion strikes again- there’s no time for fooling around!
He turns to head for the door into the hangar, but Tamara stops him.
TAMARA
What do you think he… it’s been two years. Maybe he’s not coming back?
REECE
He’s coming back, if I know him. Besides, why else would he have kidnapped-
He stops himself before saying “Terry†and watches Tamara apprehensively.
REECE (con’t)
-I’m sorry. Forgive me for that.
TAMARA
It’s ok… I mean, it may not have been Damarion. If it was, don’t you think he would have taken some of Terry’s projects?
REECE
The man has a photographic memory, he doesn’t really need his files to remember how to build a robot.
TAMARA
Yeah, but-
REECE
Don’t think about it. Don’t worry about it, no news is good news right?
Tamara takes a purging breath.
TAMARA
You’re right. This is time better spent increasing our arsenal before it’s too late.
Reece slaps a comforting hand on her shoulder and gives her a smile.
REECE
There you go. Now, about those two down-
Tamara bypasses him on the way to the hanger door.
TAMARA
I’ll handle it! I was going down there anyway.
Tamara types a code on a keypad and the sliding metal door slides open.
INT. VSHQ, ZORD HANGER- DAY
Chidra pushes Kulgor away.
CHIDRA
No, you idiot! That isn’t supposed to go there!
KULGOR
What do you mean? That’s where it is in me.
CHIDRA
Yeah- the difference being you’re a gorilla and this baby’s a cheetah, got it!
KULGOR
What difference does that make?
CHIDRA
Because this thing is supposed to-
Tamara walks down a flight of metal stairs and approaches them, monitoring the program on her tablet.
TAMARA
Everything alright down here?
CHIDRA
Yeah! Things would be better if we could get this thing done without being interrupted by the higher ups and Gorilla-man’s idiocy!
TAMARA
Chidra- we kept you here for a reason, both of you. We expected at least one of these to be done weeks ago!
CHIDRA
Don’t pressure me!
TAMARA
Ok… ok- do you want additional help? Things might go a bit faster if we-
CHIDRA
No one is touching my car except me, got it!
Tamara sighs in annoyance, pinching the bridge of her nose.
TAMARA
Ok fine. And these better be done when we need them, do you understand me?
CHIDRA
Yeah, yeah.
TAMARA
Ok. I’ve got other things to check on while I’m down here, you two, get back to work- cooperate- and finish the zords already!
Tamara walks away. Chidra watches her go, leaning back against the zord while Kulgor works on something with a plasma torch.
CHIDRA
What a busy body! We never got treated like this under Damarion!
KULGOR
Yeah. We got treated worse.
Chidra eyes him for a moment.
CHIDRA
What I wouldn’t give to-
KULGOR
-Be alive again?
Chidra groans in annoyance and half-heartedly slaps Kulgor.
CHIDRA
Stop interrupting me! Get back to work!
Tamara is walking down the line, checking the progress of some other projects when an alarm goes off on her tablet. Her eyes go wide and she runs back to the Innovation Center.
INT. GAIA BOTANICALS- DAY
Andrew is taking his break as the customer flow is beginning to die down. He leans back against the counter, sighing in relaxation when the door suddenly opens again.
ANDREW
Crap!
He spins around, expecting to greet new customers, only to find Ashlyn, Trace, Ryker and Teryn.
RYKER
Hey, bud, long time no see!
ANDREW
Ryker! Hey guys, you finally made it! I was beginning to worry.
ASHLYN
Oh, like we’d get lost looking for this place!
ANDREW
I dunno, Trace is pretty bad with directions!
TRACE
Hey!
ASHLYN
Well, that’s why we have a psychic, remember?
TRACE
I resent that!
TERYN
Well, then don’t deal with them right now! Help me, please! I need to find a whole crap load of stuff- I don’t know where it all is!
Trace gives her a look.
TRACE
You’re in here almost every day looking for herbs.
TERYN
Well… I have bad memory!
TRACE
And I’m bad with directions. Can’t help you. Sorry.
TERYN
But!
RYKER
Hey, I’ll help you. Why don’t we let these guys catch up?
Ryker gives her a meaningful look and drags her off into the isles. Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn group around the counter, but before they say anything, their Morphers make a watch alarm sound. They groan and Andrew looks to the others.
ANDREW
Come on. We know the drill by now.
Ryker is pulling Teryn deeper into the store, away from Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn. Annoyed and confused, she pulls away from him.
TERYN
What are you doing? Psycho!
RYKER
Hey, every time we leave those three alone in here, they disappear into thin air- maybe this time we can figure out what they’re up to?
TERYN
I don’t know! Maybe they just go out to eat!
RYKER
Then we’d hear the door!
Teryn rolls her eyes and begins looking for her herbs.
TERYN
Whatever. Figure it out yourself, I’m not really that interested.
RYKER
Fine!
The two go their separate ways. Ryker heads back to the others.
RYKER
Never mind. She didn’t want my help after all- guys?
Ryker looks up. Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn are gone.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn race in and line up in front of Tamara, who has her head close to Reece’s, showing him the footage on the tablet.
ANDREW
You called?
Reece and tamara look up.
REECE
Yes, I’m afraid so. It looks like the time we’ve been waiting for has arrived. Damarion’s back.
The three exchange surprised looks.
ASHLYN
After two years of nothing?
TRACE
Why would he come back now?
TAMARA
I’m not sure if it’s really him or not, but… there’s some weird energy fluctuations coming from some warehouses across the city. I can’t get an ID lock on the source, so you’re going to have to split up and check it out.
Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn are about to leave when the hanger door slides open and Chidra rushes in.
CHIDRA
Why didn’t anyone tell me there was an attack? Alright, Andrew, let’s go!
REECE
What about the zords? The Rangers are well trained- they can handle themselves!
CHIDRA
But, I am a motorcycle! You can’t beat that- besides, Kulgor’s got it covered!
Before anyone can stop him, he leaves. The rangers pause, unsure of what to do. Reece sighs in annoyance.
REECE
Just go- and I’m going to have a talk with that idiot when he gets back!
INT. VSHQ, GARAGE- DAY
The four rush in. Chidra turns into a motorcycle.
CHIDRA
Yeah! Cheetah Racer, online! Let’s beat some-
ANDREW
Yeah, yeah, yeah, you egotistic… thing. Let’s just go before they decide to leave early.
Andrew puts gets onto Chidra/ The Cheetah Racer. Ashlyn & Trace walk over to a black SUV and get inside. Ashlyn looks to Andrew.
ASHLYN
You ok?
ANDREW
Never better!
Andrew activates his morpher, spawning the glasses and hits the button on them. He swings his arm up to display the morpher and taps the watch face.
ANDREW
Vortex Shield, Pass on!
Andrew morphs into the Red Ranger. He leads out as the garage door opens. The SUV follows him out.
EXT. GAIA BOTANICALS- DAY
Andrew on his bike and the other two in the SUV head off and split up at the drive. Ryker comes running out of the store with Teryn close behind, but only sees the SUV.
RYKER
I don’t believe this! Did the just leave us here?
TERYN
Well, thank god I drove, then!
RYKER
Yeah.
The two head back inside, their pride injured.
EXT. SLATE CREEK, STREET- DAY
Andrew, on the Cheetah Racer, is heading towards a group of warehouses. He brings up his morpher before him and turns the dial, causing a hologram communications system to activate.
ANDREW
The warehouses are in sight. I’m heading in!
A hologram of Tamara appears with her tablet.
TAMARA
You’re orders are to perform recon for the moment. When we get all the date in from all three, we can plan an attack.
ANDREW
But, what if they-
REECE
Red Ranger, you have your orders- stick to them. If something unexpected happens, defense and/or tracking is authorized.
ANDREW
Fine.
Andrew hangs, up and revs the engine, speeding towards the warehouses.
EXT. MACROHARD COMPUTER FACTORY, STORAGE FACILITY- DAY
The SUV grinds to a halt outside. Trace hops out, turning to Ashlyn.
TRACE
Where are you heading to?
ASHLYN
They’re attacking another storage area on the opposite side of the complex- we’ll keep you informed!
Trace nods, shutting the door and racing to the factory, activating his morpher. The small visor folds out and spawns the glasses directly onto his face.
TRACE
Vortex Shield, Pass On!
Trace morphs into the Blue Ranger.
TRACE
VS-02, in position!
TAMARA (OS)
Excellent, Blue! Take a spot on the roof- there should be windows up top to monitor from.
EXT. MACROHARD COMPUTER FACTORY, PATENT WAREHOUSE- DAY
The SUV swerves hard into a parking space and Ashlyn leaps out, activating her morpher in the process and morphing into the Yellow Ranger.
ASHLYN
Vortex Shield, Pass On! Ok, Tamara, so where should we-
She suddenly halts, grabbing her head with a groan and almost falling over. A vision of Damarion & Enter attacking hurting her sister comes to her.
ASHLYN
Cassidy?
TAMARA (OS)
Ranger Yellow? Ranger Yellow, are you ok?
ASHLYN
Er, I’m fine. Just arriving on scene.
TAMARA (OS)
Good. We need scans of the arena first before we formulate a strategy. Also, I’ve placed system busters on the menu, link them to the breaker boxes before you take a vantage point, and I’ll hack the security mainframe to keep a watch on you.
ASHLYN
Right!
Ashlyn, Trace and Andrew tap their transponders and summon small clips with a beacon and wifi transmitter on them. Ashlyn finds her breaker box and uses her Goggle Dagger to cut the protective pipe open, then places the bug on the wires inside. She activates the hologram on her morpher and Tamara appears, working furiously on her tablet.
ASHLYN
Did it work?
TAMARA
Uhhhh… Yes! I’m in. Please, take your position- send the scans when ready.
Ashlyn nods, hanging up and running around the building.
EXT. MACROHARD COMPUTER FACTORY, STORAGE FACILITY- DAY
Trace races along a line of windows on the roof in a crouch. He finds one unlocked and sits down there, easing it open and gazing inside to find a small group of Soulless searching around inside.
TRACE
There’s not too many here… what’re they searching for?
REECE (OS)
After Vortex Co. shut down, their research was sold at auction. A government facility, AERTS, took the bulk of it and we acquired what we could. Macrohard Corp. and their chairman, Ethan James, were after certain computer technologies was had special built for out research. We thought it was a problem at first but, oddly, once they acquired them, James declared them off limits and had them placed in storage. He even hired ex-Silver Guardian members to head his security department at the Slate creek facility.
TRACE
A lot of good that did him. Scanning now.
Trace taps the side of his helmet and his visor begins scanning and building a map of the room with Soulless marked in red as “hostiles.â€
INT. VSHQ- INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
The scans from blue and yellow start coming in and Tamara brings them up on two of a display of flat screens on one of the walls. Reece and a small team of analysts check them up.
REECE
Look, there’s only five of the things at Trace’s location. But check Ashlyn’s.
TAMARA
What’s the count from Yellow’s scan?
ANALYST I
The scan isn’t complete yet, but it looks like there’s close to twenty of them working as a unit. What are those things anyway?
REECE
I don’t know. Enlarge and enhance.
One of the analysts comply, zooming in on one, switching from map to image and enhancing it, revealing the Soulless. Tamara gasps, bringing her hands to cover her mouth. Reece looks to her sadly.
REECE
One of Terry’s?
Tamara nods shakily, still in shock and near to tears.
REECE
Tamara, maybe you should-
ANALYST II
Red’s scan is coming online, now.
Tamara takes a few deep breaths, trying to bring herself under control.
TAMARA
No. No, I think I have to see this for myself.
EXT. SLATE CREEK LOCAL DIST. WAREHOUSES- DAY
Andrew finishes his scan as he watches the Soulless activity below from a third story balcony.
ANDREW
So what do we- hey?
As Andrew is trying to review the scan himself, he notices a new figure coming out of the warehouse with a small tank. It’s Enter.
ANDREW
Who are you, my friend.
Andrew taps his Transponder.
ANDREW
Goggle Dagger, Sight Mode.
The Transponder spawns the binoculars before him and drops them in his hand. Enter notices the glow above and smiles, switching to a heat-signature mode on his goggles. Andrew looks down with the binoculars and his visor program unites with the binocular program. He uses his hand to indicate a zoom in on Enter, then scans the image into his visor.
ANDREW
That guy has to be the leader… whoever he is. Better send it to HQ for analysis.
The image shrinks down to a tiny icon. His visor shows an animation of the icon being places inside an envelope, then a second one of the envelope being sent from a picture of his helmet to a picture of a laptop with the letters VSHQ across it’s screen. Suddenly, two white slashes of energy hit the balcony either side of him, cutting straight through it to the building wall and severing the part Andrew is crouched on.
ENTER
Well, don’t just hang around up there, monamie! Join the party!
The balcony collapses and Andrew falls three stories, but, due to the suit, lands safely in a crouch, steadying himself with a hand. Andrew looks up as Soulless surround him and menace him with their weapons. Enter smiles smugly and steps forward, head held high and arms behind his back.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Tamara and the analysts are checking the scans. Tamara is forcefully engrossing herself in her work. Reece looks at the projections.
REECE
Not a lot standing out here. Either this was separate missions based on priority, or… Yellow and Red might be diversions- there’s several at those locations and barely any at Blue’s. VS-02, you are authorized for attack. Be wary of possible traps, greater numbers may be hiding in wait for you!
TRACE (OS)
Roger! I’m going in!
REECE
Yellow, security is in place. We’ll make contact if anything goes wrong. Meanwhile, head to Blue’s location, there might be-
ANALYST II
Sir, incoming shot from Red.
REECE
Er… bring it up.
The image of Terry/ Enter appears on the flat screens and everyone in the room halts, awkwardly staring from the picture to Tamara. Tamara looks down, hiding her eyes.
TAMARA
So it is him. Terry wouldn’t do this… it’s Damarion. I’m sure of it.
She looks pleadingly to Reece. Reece finally nods.
REECE
Ok, we know now. Send strike teams to relieve Blue and Yellow and tell them to rendezvous with Red at-
ANALYST I
Um, sir?
REECE
What is it?
ANALYST I
It appears we’ve lost communication with all three Rangers.
Reece’s jaw drops in shock. It takes a moment for him to regain his composure.
REECE
Send a calvalry team to Red, immediately! I’m going after Trace and Ashlyn!
He heads out the door. Tamara brings up the alert system and a message starts playing over a PA system as guards begin mobilizing all over the base.
PA ALERT
All available squads form up. I repeat, all available squads form up. Possible attack on city grounds. Your superior officers will issue you with further instructions and GPS coordinates. All available squads, form up and move out.
EXT. SLATE CREEK LOCAL DIST. WAREHOUSES- DAY
ANDREW
Who are you?
ENTER
I’m sure someone will inform you soon enough… well, if you manage to get out of here. I… severed your communications with Vortex Shield. Looks like no help from Mr. Aladesco and his merry band of misfits.
ANDREW
So… where’s Damarion?
ENTER
Well, smart you! Unfortunately, that’s classified information. So… bright red jumpsuit… erratic energy readings… shiny helmet… you one of those Power Ranger things? Bah, what am I thinking. That outfit’s so bad, I’d swear you were on your way to a convention!
Andrew begins getting angry, balling his fists with a groan.
ENTER
Ooh- look at that. So, your suit reacts to your nervous system outputs… regulates your body’s internal and external condition according to the situation your brain perceives… So that’s how you can do all those crazy flips and kicks… survive a three story fall with nary a scratch. Please, continue your show. I’d like to learn all about it!
ANDREW
Sorry, buddy-
Andrew holds up his Goggle Dagger, flipping it into Dagger mode.
ANDREW (con’t)
-But the show’s over.
Enter walks around the perimeter of Soulless, Andrew turning to warily keep an eye on him. Enter wags his finger at Andrew.
ENTER
Tsk, tsk, tsk. I wouldn’t do that if I were you. You don’t know what these things are capable of.
ANDREW
You don’t know what I’m capable of either. Dayah!
Andrew rushes at Enter. Before the Soulless can react to save their leader, Andrew runs up on and flips high into the air. Enter doesn’t even flinch, instead watching expectantly with curiosity.
ANDREW
Goggle Dagger, full power!
His Goggle Dagger lights up with energy. He slashes at the Soulless below and the energy wave shoots from his weapon, damaging several of them. Andrew lands, dealing with the last three with two quick slashes, then turns to Enter, holding up his weapon and entering a battle crouch. Enter smiles humorlessly and robotic arms suddenly shoot out and whip Andrew across the lot. Enter changes his voice, emulating Andrew’s previous statement.
ENTER
“You don’t know what I’m capable of either.†Well, I must be going. Didn’t find what I was looking for, but-
Enter holds up the small tank.
ENTER (con’t)
-This has given me a bit of an idea. You’ll hear from me soon, I’m sure, contestee.
Enter begins walking away. Andrew rolls to a crouch and jumps to his feet.
ANDREW
Hey, come back here!
Andrew tries to follow him, but Enter suddenly teleports away, laughing in a mocking manner. Andrew is slightly taken aback and stops, confused. Chidra rushes in.
CHIDRA
What happened here? You ok?
ANDREW
I’m fine. But we’d better check on the others. Come on!
Chidra transforms back into cycle mode and Andrew climbs on, swerving around and driving off.
INT. MACROHARD COMPUTER FACTORY, STORAGE FACILITY- DAY
Trace leaps into the building, flipping several times and landing in the center of the room, his Snap Shooter at the ready. The Soulless begin rushing him and he shoots them all as they come, quickly taking out three- two in the isle and one that comes around the corner to see what is happening. Trace races to the nearest gap and fires at two others several isles down. One is taken out, but the other crouches, avoiding the shots. Trace takes cover behind an isle and summons his Goggle dagger, combining it with his Snap Shooter to form Vortex Fire BG-02. The last Soulless races down the isles toward his perceived location. As he draws closer, Trace leans out the isle, pulling back in quickly as the Soulless sends an energy wave from it’s blade at him. He spins back out, taking aim with his weapon and fires, taking out the Soulless. He races outside as Ashlyn arrives on scene.
ASHLYN
You done already?
TRACE
Yeah, I-
They duck as a blast ricochets off the door. They look up to see the other Soulless have followed Ashlyn and quickly surround the two. Ashlyn and Trace go back to back.
TRACE
Ready for this?
ASHLYN
Oh yeah!
The two break, charging into battle and taking the Soulless on. Ashlyn heads into an industrial area with large pipes and begins using them to keep the Soulless divided in smaller groups so she can take them on. Trace rushes through his group, leaping over, slashing, and kicking Soulless around. They regroup and try to shoot him as he comes across an outdoor dining area for the employees and knocks a table over, using it for cover. When the blasts stop, he leaps up with his Snap Shooter and runs for it, blasting several of them down. Ashlyn sees him and leaps for him and the two regroup.
ASHLYN
Vortex Fire, YH-03!
TRACE
Vortex Fire, GB-02!
The two aim into the remaining Soulless and fire, the blasts taking several of them out. The others dive out of the way, or crouch under the blast and regroup.
ASHLYN
What now?
TRACE
Those blasts were the best we can do, but they used up too much energy! We need a regeneration period before we can do that again.
ASHLYN
Suit power is depleted too. The energy fields are too weak to manipulate our electrical and gravitational energies-
TRACE
Meaning?
The Soulless begin closing in on them and they back up to a wall to protect themselves.
ASHLYN
Didn’t you read the manuals Tamara gave us? The suits link with our body’s natural electrical output to shield us from taking heavy external damage and also manipulates our natural gravitational fields, allowing us to do those high leaps and flips.
TRACE
So we can’t… crap!
ASHLYN
Well, we can still do this the old fashioned way!
TRACE
How long do you wager we’ll last if we’re outnumbered like this?
ASHLYN
Uh?
The two hold up a Goggle Dagger and Snap Shooter, waiting as the remaining Soulless, still enough to give them trouble, surround them and circle, looking for a weakness. Finally, one of them lunges and is suddenly blasted down. Trace and Ashlyn look up in surprise as Andrew races in. The Cheetah Racer launches itself into the air with a yell and Andrew blasts three more Soulless with his Snap Shooter before landing and grinding to a halt between them and his friends.
TRACE
Oh good, you made it.
ANDREW
I found out who’s behind this too. You guys ok?
ASHLYN
We are now.
CHIDRA
Then let’s finish this!
The Cheetah Racer transforms back into Chidra and poses alongside Andrew, Trace and Ashlyn. He pulls the wheels off his back and attaches them to his arms, creating formidable spinning weapons. He revs a few times, spinning them experimentally.
CHIDRA
I’ve got to love those enhancements Tamara gave me!
ANDREW
Then put them to good use. Rangers!
With battle cries, the four rush in and begin finishing the Soulless off. Chidra turns his feet into rollerblades and rides through them, punching and slashing with his tires. Andrew flips over one, shooting two behind him as he lands, then spins around and blasts the first one as it stands back up. Ashlyn swings her Goggle Dagger at one, but it catches it between the two blades of it’s weapon and tries to rip it out of her hand she grabs it’s arm and swings under it, kicking it’s legs out from under it and tossing it over her, freeing her weapon as she locks blades with another two who swing down at her. Trace is using both his weapons to attack on several fronts at once and sees Ashlyn. He shoots her assailants down, allowing her to get up. She flips to her feet and slashes the first one down for good as it recovers. Within short order, all the Soulless have been routed. As the team regroups, black SUVs start pouring in. VS agents climb out and head over to them, Reece at the head.
REECE
You four ok?
ANDREW
Yeah. Calvalry’s a little late.
REECE
We weren’t sure exactly where you all were- we lost all radio and GPS contact with you shortly after Andrew ID-ed these things’ commander.
The three tap their glasses.
RANGER SUIT SYSTEM
Powering down.
They demorph.
ASHLYN
So, who is it?
REECE
No one you know.
TRACE
But you do?
Reece eyes them warily, before turning back to the SUVs.
REECE
Meet me back at HQ. We have some things to discuss.
Andrew, Trace, Ashlyn and Chidra give each other confused looks. Ashlyn and trace head for their SUV while Chidra goes back into bike mode and Andrew climbs back on.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- DAY
Cassidy is wheeling around nervously. Damarion is free floating around the place, an angry groan escaping him and increasing in intensity.
DAMARION
Where is that buffoon!
The doors slide open and Enter enters.
ENTER
My apologies, monsieur.
DAMARION
Did you get it? The generator to open the vortex?
ENTER
I regret to say… non. I did not.
DAMARION
NO! WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN-
ENTER
Relax, relax… my lord, I think I’ve found another way- for now. You need soldiers in this world in order to take it over. You need energy in order to become stronger. Both of those things- in the form of your spirit minions- exist in your world… the question is how to get them here.
DAMARION
Obviously, the vortex!
ENTER
I thought so at first, but I don’t think we were going far enough outside the box. If we had the right technology and energy source, we could open a permanent door into your world and, with specifications, unleash your army in full corporeal form to reap the living… Although, with what we have, we can open tiny interdimensional wormholes, the problem being we can only bring one minion at a time before recharging and they can only come through as spirits-
DAMARION
Then how does that help me? If they have no bodies or forms in this world-
Enter laughs to himself, raising his arms to indicate the robotics lab around him.
ENTER
Don’t you remember? The spirits who came through before- the weaker ones who came with you… they possessed Terry’s machines and it worked perfectly. If I can pull them out of your world and contain them to transfer them into new, robotic bodies, they can accomplish your work just as- no, better than you would think possible!
Damarion considers the idea.
DAMARION
And you think you can do this?
ENTER
Give me twenty-four hours… and I know I can.
Enter smiles in delight. Damarion nods.
DAMARION
Do it.
Enter laughs to himself, bowing dramatically and gets to work.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Reece enters the room, followed by the now demorphed Andrew, Trace & Ashlyn. Tamara looks up expectantly.
REECE
Ok, everyone, out- this is a debriefing session, only those in command are allowed to stay. Chidra, we need you down there fixing those zords, pronto.
CHIDRA
Huh, what are you expecting a thirty story robot, now, or-
Tamara jumps up angrily and gets in his face.
TAMARA
The man Damarion has taken is a robotics designer. Before he disappeared two years ago, he was working on classified projects, one of which being a giant walking tank that could smash half a city apart before regular military protocols would be able to take it down- now get down there and finish the Vortex Vehicles, before-
CHIDRA
Ok, ok, I’m going. Oy!
Chidra heads for the door to the hanger and exits. Reece and Tamara turn to the Rangers.
ASHLYN
Tamara, are… are you ok?
TAMARA
I’m fine. Although, it’s now quite obvious that Damarion is behind this. I knew Terry, there’s no way he would do what he did today… unless he was being compelled by Damarion.
Andrew moves swiftly to Tamara, grabbing her by the shoulders and looking sympathetically into her eyes.
ANDREW
Don’t worry, Tamara. I got free. Maybe there’s hope for him yet.
ASHLYN
I just have one question… my sister. I- we- used her to remove Damarion from Andrew… If Damarion is back and… she isn’t… what happened to her?
TRACE
She’s bound to be around somewhere, right? Like Andrew said, we’re not giving up hope. Not yet. We’re going to fight this thing and we’re going to win.
Everyone shares determined looks.
REECE
To battle, then. War to the end.
Andrew backs back into formation with Trace and Ashlyn.
ANDREW
Correction, sir. To Damarion’s end!
A proud heroic moment ensues. Reece smiles to himself.
REECE
Tamara, call the analysts back! Get them scanning the city for any unusual activity- Rangers, prepare yourselves for battle. If Damarion wants a war, we’re going to give it to him!
Everyone salutes and heads off to their duties.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- NIGHT
Enter spends all night building and linking a machine to the Vortex device and designing a small card. He also builds a strange robot, different from the others. It is taller and red, covered with spikes that are tinged green at the top. He sticks the card into the Vortex Device and, with wires, attaches it to the new robot. Finally, dawn comes.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- DAY
Enter types up a program on his laptop, smiling in triumph to himself. Damarion appears behind him.
DAMARION
You finished ahead of schedule.
ENTER
I’m happy to inform you that, oui, I have succeeded.
DAMARION
I still don’t get it.
ENTER
The tank is a new experimental fuel source. A tiny drop of it at a time should be enough to sustain the type of vortex we need long enough to accomplish our task. The new upgrade I installed will retrieve a Spirit from your world and trap it in a data card, which will then immediately transfer it into the robot. Then comes the second part of my plan.
DAMARION
Which is?
Enter stops, heading over to a giant object covered by a tarp. He pulls it down revealing one of his giant robots from the earlier plans.
ENTER
I give you my pride and joy! Assuming The Viking doesn’t do the job the first time, part of his energy will be siphoned, multiplied and finally transferred to power up this baby… the Omega Soulless.
DAMARION
Then do it. Bring The Viking through.
Enter bow dramatically.
ENTER
Oui, oui, oui, but of course, monsieur.
He returns to his laptop activating the device. The metal ring shoots off blue sparks of energy the meet in the center, creating tiny temporal anomalies. A grey fog comes through and is sucked into the square pillar like device at the side. A light above the card goes from red to green and the energy is transferred into the robot, awakening it with a roar. Damarion watches, chuckling in contentment.
DAMARION
Yes! The world will soon be mine!
INT. SLATE CREEK COLLEGE DORMS, ASHLYN/ TERYN’S ROOM- DAWN
Ashlyn is tossing and turning in her sleep, having troubled visions of her sister’s treatment at the hands of Damarion once again. The last thing she remembers is Cassidy looking directly at her with soulful eyes and begging for help. Ashlyn springs awake to find that the sun has risen. As she tries to calm down and regain control of her breathing, however, a massive explosion occurs nearby, causing Ashlyn to jump in fright, falling out of bed.
ASHLYN
Dah!
She springs back to her feet as Teryn jumps awake also.
TERYN
What was that?
ASHLYN
I don’t know, I-
Ashlyn looks out to see fires in the distance.
ASHLYN
-I’ve got to go!
Ashlyn suddenly rushes outside. Teryn seems put out by her leaving and doesn’t know if she should follow or stay.
EXT. SLATE CREEK COLLEGE, DORM BUILDING- DAY
Ashlyn makes it outside to find a large crowd already there, watching the activity in the distance. Ashlyn pushes through them until she finds Trace as well.
TRACE
Ashlyn?
ASHLYN
Trace? Trace, what’s going on?
TRACE
I just got off the phone with Andrew and Tamara… it’s them. They want us to head out now! Come on!
The two break the crowd and head off toward the parking lot. After they’re far enough away, they activate their morphers, spawning the glasses directly onto their faces.
ASHLYN & TRACE
Vortex Shield, Pass On!
ANIMATION: As they stand on a black background, LED animations of a gorilla and hare appear on their morpher screens as they hold their arms up. The pictures rise from their morphers and condense into colored spirit orbs which flit around them. They try to keep track of them with their eyes, but the orbs zoom off into the distance. Trace & Ashlyn take off after them as the ground slowly goes from flat to almost vertical, causing them to run faster. At the last moment, they leap, grasping the orbs in their hands. The orbs burst into energy, surrounding them and forming their suits. They fall to flat ground below, landing before dynamic metallic VS symbols and pose. Ashlyn’s is partially a molten yellow color while Trace’s is a super-heated indigo.
Trace and Ashlyn head off towards the fires in the distance.
TRACE
VS-02, Blue Gorilla Vortex Ranger!
ASHLYN
VS-03, Yellow Hare Vortex Ranger!
EXT. SLATE CREEK, STREET- DAY
Andrew is riding the Cheetah Racer into battle. He activates his morpher, transforming into the Red Ranger.
ANDREW
VS-01, Red Cheetah Vortex Ranger!
E revs the engine and pulls into a wheelie.
ANDREW
Let’s do this!
CHIDRA
You got it, Red!
They pick up speed and zoom off towards the danger.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Tamara, still half asleep and in pajamas, is working furiously on her computers. She talks to the Rangers through her Bluetooth headset.
TAMARA
Emergancy and Fire Containment officials are responding. We’re sending a team to clear them and all other civilians from the battle zone so until you three deal with the source of the issue!
ANDREW (OS)
Understood!
TRACE (OS)
Roger that!
ASHLYN (OS)
We’ll take him!
Tamara pauses, sighing and looking down into the hangar where Chidra and Kulgor are putting the finishing touches on the VV-01 Cheetah Chaser.
TAMARA
Good luck, Rangers.
Suddenly, an alert goes off on her Tablet. Confused, she opens the file.
TAMARA
What is that?
INT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
The Viking is using flamethrowers to set things on fire. He is surrounded by a large squad of Alpha Soulless (The human-sized minions) who are using their weapons to blast apart anything in sight. The Viking laughs in victory. Most humans are out of the area. VS Vans pull in and teams set up a perimeter, helping whoever is left to escape.
THE VIKING
Aw, why would you ruin our fun?
He begins advancing on them. The men hold their ground, warily.
THE VIKING
Vortex Shield, huh? My master told me about you! Now, where’s those pesky Rangers I’ve been hearing so much about?
ANDREW
Right here!
The Viking turns as Andrew ramps over him on the bike and fires on him with his Snap Shooter. The VS agents use the distraction to back off with the civilians. Andrew lands and turns to face The Viking, who seems not to have been incredibly hurt by the blasts.
ANDREW
Oh, that can’t be good.
TRACE
Andrew?
ASHLYN
I found him! Over here!
Trace and Ashlyn rush in and take positions either side of Andrew, who climbs off his bike. Chidra transforms back into himself.
ANDREW
Any idea who this guy is?
THE VIKING
A servant of the almighty Damarion! In life, I was called Lief Kragson… but when I joined my master in his world, that life became nothing but a shadow… to my master’s enemies, I am known simply as The Viking!
TRACE
Life Kragson? As in THE Lief Kragson?
ANDREW
You know this guy?
TRACE
I’m an archaeology major, remember? This guy was a widely feared Viking ruler. He started as a warrior and rose up through the ranks through brutality and bloodshed, eventually becoming a Viking king of sorts. He was most known for subjecting his people to a rather unhealthy religion- worshiping a spirit that demanded sacrifice and gave nothing but a stay of his wrath in return.
ASHLYN
Damarion.
The Viking laughs.
THE VIKING
It’s good to know that I made an impression on the world! That those like you still know and fear my name!
CHIDRA
Hey, buddy, you might want to rethink that fear part!
ANDREW
Let’s finish this. A guy like you should be no problem for us.
THE VIKING
Oh really!
He summons energy into his flamethrowers and fires a blast at them. They dive for cover, Ashlyn and Trace being throw into walls and Andrew sent flying into the air. Chidra, however, zooms through, avoiding the blasts and hits The Viking square center, sending him flying. Andrew uses all his willpower to steady himself, landing on his feet, but bringing up a shower of sparks from them as he slides to a halt.
ANDREW
Ow! I’ve had enough of this! Vortex Fire!
He summons the Goggle Dagger from his Transponder and combines it with his Snap Shooter. He runs back to the site of the blast, searching for Lief. The Viking appears, climbing to his feet out of the dust and firing twin jets of flame at him, which he narrowly avoids by diving to the right. Chidra, Ashlyn & Trace regroup with him and help him up.
THE VIKING
Soulless, attack!
ASHLYN
What now?
ANDREW
I have a plan, we-
Their radios go off. Confused, Andrew answers.
ANDREW
This is Red. What is it base?
TAMARA (OS)
This is bad! It looks like that thing’s life is being partially drained to something else.
ANDREW
One of those giant robots you were talking about?
CHIDRA
Oh great! We never did get the Cheetah Chaser to full power!
TAMARA (0S)
And now you know why we were berating you! We were depending on you for that-
CHIDRA
It’s not at full power yet, but it still works! We just can’t access Warrior Mode yet!
ASHLYN
What are guys talking about?
The Soulless are upon them and the team scatters, fighting their own battles against them.
ANDREW
What can we do?
CHIDRA
Listen, Tamara! Tell Kulgor to keep working on it until we absolutely need it! It just needs a few more adjustments!
TAMARA (OS)
I can’t guarantee you guys long! I’m setting up a countdown to the Omega Soulless’ activation. When it reaches zero, I’m sending it out, whether it’s done or not!
The countdown starts on their morpher faces. Andrew takes a quick glance as he fights.
ANDREW
Seven minutes and counting!
CHIDRA
Seven minutes! What are we supposed to do in seven minutes, that’s not long enough to finish the zord!
ANDREW
We’ll do what we can!
Andrew contacts trace & Ashlyn via radio.
ANDREW
Trace, Ashlyn, activate your Vortex Fires! The primary target is The Viking, but I lost him in all this. Set visors to scan for him, when you find him, alert to his location, so we can finish this!
TRACE
Right!
ASHLYN
Got you, Red!
The rangers comply with the order and continue fighting, scanning for The Viking. The Viking is hiding among the Soulless, shifting position and waiting for a chance to attack one of the Rangers or Chidra. The countdown is at five minutes and counting. Enter watches from a nearby rooftop. He slides a card through a scanner on his laptop and types up a chart showing the vitals of the Omega Soulless.
ENTER
80% and growing. Almost time for the poor, poor city of Slate Creek to say au revoir!
The rangers continue fighting. Three minutes are left when The Viking finally finds an opening and tries to strike Andrew from behind.
CHIDRA
Look out!
Chidra zooms past Andrew and tackles The Viking down. Andrew spins around in surprise.
ANDREW
Found him! Rangers, lock target!
Ashlyn and Trace regroup with Andrew as The Viking throws Chidra at them. They duck and dive out of the way and come back up, aiming their Vortex Fires at The Viking.
ALL THREE
Vortex Fire, Full Power!
They all shoot at once, hitting The Viking square in the chest and sending him sliding backward, damaging several Soulless behind him in the process. The blasts finally halt and The Viking groans, somewhat confused. He begins sparking and collapses to the ground, exploding as the three pose in triumph. Chidra climbs to his feet, dusting himself off.
CHIDRA
Oh, thank you! Thank you, it was nothing! I just saved your miserable lives is all!
Enter watches the scene in displeasure, his face twisted as if he has a bad taste in his mouth.
ENTER
No worries, no worries. We’ll just have to do this… the old fashioned way.
He types up and The Viking’s soul floats out of the rubble and shoots into the sky, much to the rangers’ surprise and dismay. A portal opens up in the sky and the Omega Soulless drops out. The Viking’s soul enters it and it transforms, gaining flamethrowers on it’s arms. The single eye flashes as the Viking takes over.
THE VIKING
I’m back, Rangers!
He swings his arm around, flaming buildings around him with fire so hot it melts them, metal, glass, stone and all.
ENTER
There we go! Much more like it!
Enter closes his laptop, claps his hands once as he savors the moment. He walks off and teleports away. The counter reaches zero.
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
The alarm goes off as the counter hits zero. She jumps up and heads to the hanger, hitting a page button.
TAMARA
The Omega Soulless is attacking! Send the VV-01 into action immediately!
The VV-01 Cheetah Chaser activates.
EXT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
The Rangers watch in dismay as The Viking burns their city to the ground. Chidra shakes Andrew’s shoulder before transforming back into bike mode.
CHIDRA
Come on, Andrew! Let’s go!
ANDREW
Right!
Andrew climbs on. Ashlyn catches his arm, demorphing her helmet.
ASHLYN
Are you sure you can do this?
ANDREW
Almost positive.
TRACE
What does that mean?
Blasts echo around them. They look up to see more Alpha Soulless funneling into the streets.
ANDREW
You two deal with them! I’ll stop The Viking… once and for all!
Andrew rides off. Ashlyn remorphs her helmet on as she and trace turn to the new threat.
TRACE
This time… let’s not do what we did last time.
ASHLYN
Definitely not!
The two take stances and race into battle. As Andrew rides down the street, a GPS tracker on his morpher beeps louder and faster. Suddenly, as he rounds a corner, the tank sized VV-01 drives up behind him, opening a door in the grill and lowering a ramp behind him. Andrew watches it warily.
ANDREW
Ok… let’s go!
Andrew puts it in neutral and gets sucked up the ramp into the zord. The ramp & door closes and a red & gold cheetah head pops out, it’s eyes glowing as it roars.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
Andrew climbs off the bike and goes to sit in a chair across the room. Chidra transforms back into himself and merges with a computer on his side. The two slide together and a door opens up, sending them into the cockpit. Andrew hits a button, syncing the system with his morpher and activating it. He looks down at Chidra’s face, which is now the steering wheel.
ANDREW
Uh… what is this?
CHIDRA
I’m the steering wheel. Come on, get to driving before that thing destroys the city.
ANDREW
Yeah, but you’re… right in my…
CHIDRA
Go on?
ANDREW
Never mind- let’s just go.
Andrew activates the zord. His visor lights up with gauges and displays that he can cycle through with his hand as if they were projected in the air before him.
ANDREW
Ok, VV-01, Cheetah Chaser, online!
CHIDRA
Vehicle Mode!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The Viking turns to watch as the Cheetah Chaser heads his way. He chuckles in amusement to himself and aims blasts of fire at it. The car swerves left and right, narrowly avoiding the blasts.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
Whoa! Did you catch the energy readings on those blasts?
CHIDRA
Stronger than I would have thought.
ANDREW
Stronger than anything anyone of us thought!
CHIDRA
Must have something to do with the robotics. This Terry fellow did have two years to perfect his designs.
ANDREW
What do we have to stop him with?
CHIDRA
Oh, your run-of-the-mill missiles… we can launch a spoiler blast.
ANDREW
Spoiler blast?
CHIDRA
Just aim and watch the magic happen!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The VV-01 drifts through a supermarket parking lot, avoiding another blast as it tries to lock onto The Viking.
ANDREW (OS)
I think we got it! Ok, go!
CHIDRA (OS)
Firing now!
The Spoiler on the back of the car lights up with red energy. It slides all the way to the right and pivots on the centerpiece, pointing straight for The Viking. It fires, shooting the energy at the Viking as the kick-back sends the spoiler backwards through the centerpiece to point the other direction. It lights up with energy again and spins back around to point at The Viking. They fire several times, landing blows on their adversary, knocking him to the ground.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
Yeah, we got him!
CHIDRA
Uh… I wouldn’t celebrate yet!
ANDREW
Why’s that- oh.
Andrew watches as the Viking climbs back to his feet, rising out of the smoke and dust and laughs.
EXT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
Trace and Ashlyn are holding off the Soulless as best they can, but they keep pouring into the street from alleys and side roads Trace fights his way back over to Ashlyn.
TRACE
How you doing?
ASHLYN
Not too bad, I-
They pause as they notice several of the Soulless lining up several feet away.
TRACE
Ashlyn… what’re they doing?
ASHLYN
I’m not sure…
The Soulless level their blades at them and the ones fighting Trace and Ashlyn retreat out of the way. Ashlyn uses her visor to zoom in on the weapons, now noticing that there is a small blaster barrel in between the blades.
ASHLYN
He upgraded! They have guns now!
TRACE
Oh crap!
The two dive out of the way, rolling in opposite directions, as the squad of Soulless fire on where they used to be.
TRACE & ASHLYN
Snap Shooters!
As they roll out of the way on their stomachs, they pull out their Snap Shooters and fire several times on the Soulless firing squad, forcing those remaining to scatter. Ashlyn and Trace leap to their feet, activating their Goggle Daggers and regroup as the Soulless begin circling again.
TRACE
This is not good!
ASHLYN
I’ll second you there!
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
Missiles, fire!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
Several missile slots fold out of the sides and front of the VV-01, sending a barrage at The Viking. They’re enough to knock him back a step when they hit, but barely do any damage.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
What now?
CHIDRA
We’re going to have to try something else. We can’t enter Warrior Mode yet, but we can go into Ani Mode. That’ll give us a bit more maneuverability.
ANDREW
Yeah, sure, if you think it’ll work!
Andrew scrolls through his gauges until he finds one displaying a blueprint status of the zord. He selects the Ani Mode option underneath and the blueprint transforms from a Sports car to a cheetah.
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
Four hatches (two on the hood & two on the roof) spring open, folding out into four legs pointing straight in the air.
ANDREW & CHIDRA (OS)
Activating Ani Mode Cheetah!
The legs fold to the sides, taking most of the top of the car with them. Thrusters launch it into the air and the legs fold underneath. The skin of the car, now mostly reversed has gone from black to red with gold spots. The spoiler fold into the tail. The cheetah lands, crouching low and giving a warning growl as it’s eyes flash dangerously.
THE VIKING
Aw! Look at the cute little pussycat! Die!
He shoots his flamethrowers at the zord, but it leaps out of the way, racing around the city blocks and easily avoiding The Viking.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
Good! It’s working!
CHIDRA
I don’t know how long we can fool him though! If we don’t get rid of him fast, he’s bound to think of a way to stop us!
ANDREW
Right… uhhhh? Er… come on.
CHIDRA
Ok, while you do that, I’ll scan for weaknesses! Oy!
ANDREW
What! I’m trying! Um…
EXT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
Trace is handling himself well. He takes out a couple Soulless before one gets close enough to engage him. He blocks a few swings and kicks before it gets past his defenses and karate chops him in the stomach with it’s weapon. Trace is knocked back a step with the force as it knocks the wind from him. In desperation and anger, he grabs the arm, twists it around, kicks the Soulless’ legs out from under it and slashes at the back of it’s neck with his Goggle Dagger, destroying it. He stumbles, trying to catch his breath and pulls out his Snap Shooter again, blasting at two Soulless rushing him from the front. He turns and fires a third blast, taking out one who is sneaking up on Ashlyn. Ashlyn is spooked by the close call and ducks, narrowly avoiding a slash from the weapon of the Soulless she is fighting. She twists the arm against its chest, throws it back a step and runs up it. Ashlyn kicks off the Soulless, back flipping in the air and slashing at it as she lands, destroying it.
ASHLYN
Thanks!
Trace looks to her as he holds his chest, coughing as he gets his wind back. A Soulless is coming up behind him.
TRACE
No problem.
Ashlyn blasts the Soulless as it’s about to strike, surprising Trace. He looks around wildly, trying to figure out what just happened. Ashlyn flashes him a thumbs up.
ASHLYN
Now we’re even!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The Cheetah Chaser steps out from a skyscraper behind The Viking, who is looking for any sign of movement in the opposite direction.
ANDREW (OS)
Over here, smart guy!
The Viking spins around, firing at them again, but they race off and he misses. He roars in frustration and sets off in their direction to stop them. The Cheetah Chaser dashes behind a warehouse and crouches low.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
ANDREW
We should be ok here for a moment. Got anything yet?
CHIDRA
I think so- what about those flamethrowers? He’s storing some sort of flammable liquid, we just have to fire at the right spot and blow the storage tanks!
ANDREW
Great! That’s genius, I’ll
THE VIKING (OS)
There you are!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The Viking has found their hiding spot and levels his flamethrowers at them. The Cheetah Chaser jumps up and tries to run off, but this time, The Viking hits them, knocking them across the city and through several buildings. The Viking begins approaching them.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
Andrew shields his eyes from the glare of the fire as it dissipates. Alarms are going off all around him.
ANDREW
What’s going on?
CHIDRA
We’re in big trouble! He damages the one of the leg motors and collapsed the external shielding system from the heat! One more blast like that, and we’re goners!
Andrew sits up, gripping the sticks on either side of Chidra’s head tightly as he watches The Viking approach.
CHIDRA
Andrew are you listening?... Andrew?!?
ANDREW
Fire up another spoiler blast! I’ll switch to thermal and locate those tanks you were talking about!
CHIDRA
Ok! I hope this works!
ANDREW
I hope so too!
Andrew taps the side of his helmet, activating a thermal scan of The Viking. The glare of the heat coming from the actual flamethrowers is offsetting the chart and he can’t see past it. The Viking is getting closer.
ANDREW
Come on!
He adjusts the image, bringing it into a tighter focus. The Viking lifts his arms, aiming at them. Finally, Andrew notices a colder spot a few feet up the arms and sets the aim for it.
ANDREW
FIRE NOW!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
The tail is already lit up with energy. It adjusts aim and fires, hitting the right arm’s tank and causing it to explode. The Viking is carried backward with the force and falls to one knee. Burning shrapnel goes everywhere, even splintering the rest of the body itself. The Viking looks up at them.
THE VIKING
If I go down… I’m taking you with me!
He aims his other flamethrower at them.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
CHIDRA
On your count!
Andrew starts to say it, but changes his mind as the second flamethrower begins heating up. He adjusts his aim.
ANDREW
Right into the barrel! FIRE!
EXT. SLATE CREEK- DAY
As the explosive gas catches, they fire a second blast, which cuts right through the fire and enters the barrel of the flamethrower. The fire envelops the Cheetah Chaser. The blast hits the second tank, causing it to blow the other arm open. The exploding gas escapes through the hole and hits The Viking directly in it’s single eye. The Viking yells out as it melts through and he falls back, exploding.
EXT. SLATE CREEK, BUSINESS DISTRICT- DAY
Trace and Ashlyn are still fighting the Soulless when the explosion happens. Everyone jumps in shock and turn to se the fireball rising into the sky in the distance. The Soulless suddenly stop, seeming to be unsure of what to do.
TRACE
Ready to finish them off?
ASHLYN
Let’s do it!
They’re about to when one of them makes a sudden hyperactive series of buzzes and static noises, waving his arms in the air. One by one, they all do the same thing and begin retreating back to where they came from, disappearing in an ultraviolet flash of energy. Trace and Ashlyn make a move to try to stop them when Reece contacts them on the radio.
REECE (OS)
Leave them, they’re retreating for now.
TRACE
But, what if they come back?
TAMARA (OS)
Rangers! Hurry to Andrew’s coordinates, immediately… he’s in danger.
Ashlyn looks off towards the explosion.
ASHLYN
You don’t mean?
They share a look and race off towards the explosion.
INT. VV-01 COCKPIT- DAY
Andrew is slumped over the control console as sparks burst from equipment around him. He demorphs, the glasses sliding down his face. Chidra also appears to be deactivated, but his eyes suddenly begin to half-heartedly light up.
EXT. EXPLOSION SITE- DAY
Trace and Ashlyn arrive on scene to see VS personnel crowding around, clearing away the rubble of the battle and trying to put the zord fire out. Reece is there. Trace and Ashlyn rip the glasses off, demorphing and approach him.
ASHLYN
No!
TRACE
What happened?
REECE
The Vortex Vehicles weren’t ready to go into battle yet. We’re going to have a hell of a time repairing them!
TRACE
What about the one driving it?
Reece looks at them sadly.
REECE
If he remained in suit, I think we can get him out. I can’t say much for Chidra, although it appears we’ll have to repair him too.
TRACE
Oh! Thank you!
Trace backs off, trying to calm himself down.
ASHLYN
We’ll have to? What does that mean?
REECE
I guess they don’t trust us. Remember that they wouldn’t let anyone near the hanger to help them out? Apparently, the idiots created a contingency plan so we couldn’t “get rid of them.†They designed the Vortex Vehicles so they only work if they’re plugged in, and did it in a way so that we’d have to completely rip the things apart to fix the problem- something we don’t have the luxury of time for.
ASHLYN
But there’s only two of them. What about mine?
REECE
I guess they didn’t think that one through. Looks like the Megazord isn’t going online any time soon.
Reece begins pacing. Ashlyn steps back to hang out with Trace.
ASHLYN
We’ll get him out. You know that.
TRACE
But what if-
VS AGENT I
Look!
Everyone look up as a figure marches out of the fire. They all watch in awe, holding their breath. As the smoke clears, it turns out to be Chidra, carrying Andrew out of the wreckage. Everyone exclaims relief all at once and race to see him as Chidra hands the still unconscious Andrew off to some medics. They crowd around as the medics work on him. Finally, the medic stops, standing and approaching Ashlyn, Trace & Reece warily.
VS MEDIC
He’s ok. He’ll live.
Everyone lets out the breaths they were holding in and express their gratitude. Chidra shrugs to them.
CHIDRA
You’re welcome! Guess it’s a good thing to have me around after all, huh?
INT. VSHQ, INNOVATION CENTER- DAY
Everyone is lined up, watching the screens which show the footage of the battle. The main monitor focuses on Terry/ Enter.
TAMARA
He seems to be calling himself Enter now-
ANDREW
Makes sense.
Everyone looks to him, confused.
ANDREW
When Damarion possessed me before, he used a hologram off of the computer to lure me in. The hologram called itself Enter too.
TAMARA
Sounds like Damarion. He’d be sick enough to find that amusing.
Reece walks over to her, laying a hand on her shoulder.
REECE
How many times do we have to tell you? We’ll get him back, Tamara.
Tamara nods sadly. Reece turns back to the others.
REECE
The main thing now is to prepare. Damarion is back- and with the full cooperation of a technological genius at that. We don’t know what he’s capable of… he could strike any place at any time… we were also able to discover that the canister Enter stole from the warehouse contains an experimental form of energy saving fuel that was bought by local investors- we must therefore assume that he might later decide he needs more and label production sites of this fuel as possible targets.
TAMARA
Plus the zords.
Everyone turns to her as she looks down into the hanger below. Chidra and Kulgor, their secret out, now have a full team working with them to finish the zords. VV-02 & VV-03 are finally shaping up. VV-01 is being rebuilt standing upright in warrior mode.
TAMARA
We should put as much effort as possible into finishing up the zords. If Terry was able to create one of those quote-unquote Omega Soulless’ he’s fully capable of making another.
She turns to back to them.
TAMARA (con’t)
Don’t worry, though. We’re not taking any more shenanigans from Chidra and Kulgor. Hopefully, VV-01 will be rebuilt and VV-02 will be fully operational before Damarion and T… Enter strike again.
Tamara becomes incredibly interested in her Tablet and heads for the hanger entrance, exiting the room. Reece turns to the others.
REECE
Well… I guess that’s everything. Rangers, dismissed.
They salute and exit, heading down the hall and stopping on a golden inlaid VS symbol with a GB inscribed on it in the middle of some sort of atrium. They wave to a security guard at a desk who hits a secret button and the whole floor panel rises up towards the ceiling, where a tunnel suddenly opens up.
INT. GAIA BOTANICALS, LOCKER ROOM- DAY
The floor slides open and the panel rises through, depositing Andrew, Trace & Ashlyn in the locker room of the store above. They stroll out into the sales floor.
INT. GALA BOTANICALS- DAY
Ryker enters the store and looks up at them, confused.
RYKER
Hey! Where have you guys been? I saw you all leave in the truck before, and-
ANDREW
Making deliveries. Trace & Ashlyn decided to come along so we could catch up.
RYKER
But, what about-
ASHLYN
The catch was that we had to help. We didn’t think you would’ve wanted to.
TRACE
Sorry we didn’t tell you, Andrew’s boss was whipping the poor guy into a frenzy.
Ryker nods absently.
RYKER
Well, uh… nice to see you back.
INT. ENTER’S LAB- NIGHT
Enter is working on a new prototype on his computer. Damarion watches from behind, Cassidy trembling at his feet.
DAMARION
The last one was a failure! Make this one better.
ENTER
I wouldn’t try again if I thought it was a bad idea. We came close, we just need another tactic… maybe with some added energy…
DAMARION
What added energy?
ENTER
Tenir a l’instant, monsieur. I’m thinking.
The monitor shows blueprints for some sort of hypodermic needle robot.
INT. ASHLYN & TERYN’S DORM- NIGHT
Ashlyn is curled up in bed, thinking about the premonitions of her sister.
ASHLYN
I will save you, sweetie… I swear.
TERYN
Who are you talking to?
Ashlyn looks up in surprise to see Teryn come back from the bathroom in pajamas.
ASHLYN
Wha- oh… nothing. Just myself.
FADE TO BLACK…