SPD: Return of the Machines

[Eternal]

Skip this if you don't like rambling. Preface is below.

:eusa_eh: <-- That's me expressing my bewilderment as to why I am attempting again a Power Rangers story. What the past has taught me is anything I start ends up getting trashed because life happens and I wouldn't be surprised if this, too, gets chucked. However, writing still remains a passion of mine, a tool I will use in other endevors to make my mark in other areas of my life. I can't say how often this will be updated, but the bug is biting so I might as well scratch it while I can.

My boy Brandon B and I converse often over SPD and fan fictions in general, so I'll say this: Read Brandon's story SPD: The Return . If you haven't, you're missing out on the most calculated, continuity-oozing, surprising, action-packed PR fan fiction ever. I learned "episodes" are not my strong suit and doing so really put me at a disadvantage. Though I liked the idea of creating a second season of SPD, stand-alone installments cannot offer what chaptered stories can. From that, I baked this idea for a couple of months and have a chapter nearly written. When will I post it? I dunno. As school and work continues to pour in, I'm not gonna stress over this and place it as a high priority. I just want to write a worthy story when I have the time. Hope you enjoy it.



PROLOGUE

No one truly knows its origins. The story changes from generation to generation, from eon to eon. Young, exceptional indivduals come to realize their fate and assume what is known throughout the universe as Power. Power selects an indivdual and through great measures will it take to be with the one who will be called a Power Ranger. The path it travels along is referred to as the Morphing Grid.

The Grid, in theory, exists on a celestial plane, connecting together both the minds of man and alien for a common purpose. That purpose, as history has shown, has been to combat the forces of Darkness, which being a great deceiver, has tapped its way into the hearts of Rangers of old and inevitably into the consciousness of the Grid. A balance was created and the battle since has raged, even to this day.

Using dinosaurus, magic, ninjas, nature, and ancient sages, Power has shown countless worlds, societies, and life forms that good can and will ultimately triumph over evil. But not all Darkness can be reached, or even touched. Soulless creations called machines have evolved. Their ability have far exceeded of that programmed by their Dark creators and crushed them, wanting no other to take the crown that sits on the side of Power. However, time has allowed Power Rangers to organize a formal military, an intergalatic squad of heroes dedicated to stop Darkness, and the Machines, from ruling the universe.

These heroes are known as Space Patrol Delta, universal officers and cadets sworn to defend galaxies from evil. Four years after S.P.D.'s victory over the feared Troobian Military, a fallen empire of the past would plot its revenge by orchestrating a plan so evil -- it's good. Will their attempt to bring S.P.D. down from the inside succeed?

[PHAETON]

exciting...I can't wait to see what you have cooked up for us Eternal...Keep it comming

[Wes Janson]

Dude! You're back! Mega sweetness.

[Nic]

This sounds soooo good. I will definitely be checking this out once the first chapter is posted.

[Eternal]

Double post -- oops

[Eternal]

The cockpit she was seated in was far from comfortable, or the ride at least. Frequent turbulence, the blips and other repetitive beeping from the cockpit’s computers further edged on the nerves of the 20-something pilot. Sure, the light emitting from the crevices of the dials and monitors was the hot neon pink resembling that of a favorite nighttime hangout, but the dance was different and the pace was faster in this particular outing. The signature golden blonde curls draping past her shoulders were stuffed inside a helmet tonight, as were her stunning blue eyes behind its tinted visor. The model female specimen known as Sydney Drew was to be worshipped this evening by an audience of newer and older fans alike. Instead, her desirable features were tucked away behind S.W.A.T.-armored pink spandex. Needless to say, there would be no concert this evening. The twenty two year old princess of pop found herself strapped inside a S.W.A.T. Flyer maneuvering her way through the chaos of laser fire and exploding enemy vessels.

The data transmitting from the S.W.A.T. scanners confirmed the target’s position. The enemy jet was now in perfect trajectory to be vanquished.

"Buh-bye,” SPD Pink said pressing both her thumbs down on the controllers.

The laser cannons tucked beneath the nose of the flyer extended its barrels and released a fusion of pink and white energy. The bright lasers zapped forward and connected to the side of the enemy ship, instantaneously destroying the vessel into smoking flames.

“One down, a million more to go,” Syd sighed as she guided her flyer back around into the foray of laser fire.

Screaming missiles and jet blasters filled the outer atmosphere above the white, blue, and green orb known as Fernovia. Smoke pillared from damaged enemy planes as they became sucked into the gravitational pull of the planet spinning several hundred miles beneath them. The force of good seemed to have the upper hand in this trade off of colorful fire power, each nose of their flyers baring the universally recognized and respected badge insignia. The dog head silhouette was iconic in its own right, but for those who were not familiar with its prestige, three letters arched above spelled it out plainly: S.P.D. – Space Patrol Delta.

The sea of fighter jets flooded only a small portion of the infinite dark frontier called outer space. Below, more chaos had taken shape. The tranquil planet known as Fernovia, its land lush with running rivers and plant life, was under attack. Its citizens fled for safety thorough the many jungles as jets raced after each other in a fierce game of cat and mouse. The sound of marching cadets broke the cool afternoon air in pursuit of the foot soldiers their scanners desperately worked to pin point. Running past a powerful waterfall, a thin metallic enemy plane seemingly mocked its pursuer as it skillfully wove between the jungles of this quiet paradise.

“You’re good, real good, but not good enough!” said the pilot behind the controls of the Blue S.W.A.T. Flyer.

Bridge Carson, SPD Blue Ranger and second-in-command of B-Squad, managed to keep a short distance between his plane and the one ahead. Though his survival depended on his undivided concentration, he couldn’t help to admire the sleek, sufficient design of the flyer attempting to evade his line of fire. Its silver luster and curvaceous aeronautic design could only been made a reality by the best in military flight engineering Bridge mused.

Blue Ranger thumbed both triggers with intention to fire. And so he did.

White lightning bolted from the flyer’s cannons wrapped in ice blue energy and connected to the tail of the enemy. Instantly, the plane began to dive, but the pilot had no plans on going down with his vessel. Having released his hatch, the pilot flew out and streaked forward like a missile to the mountainside ahead. Bridge’s eyes grew stunned at the imminent suicide.

“Whoa! S.W.A.T. vision, zoom times 200!” he ordered.

The helmet computer complied and enhanced Blue’s vision to the falling pilot’s coordinates. Behind his mouthpiece, Bridge’s mouth hung as the pilot landed upright beside the mountainous cliff, free of harm.

“Unreal,” he breathed. His eyes focused more clearly, forming an instant inquiry. “But what is it?”

On the opposite side of the jungle, an upbeat blend of salsa and hip hop filled the cockpit of an amber-coated S.W.A.T. Flyer. The pilot inside lightly bobbed her head as the music blaring around her provided the soundtrack to the beautiful destruction she was more than willing to contribute to. Elizabeth “Z” Delgado smiled and locked on.

“Adios!” SPD Yellow said engaging her defense system.

Yellow lasers pelted the body of the jet racing in her direction. Each attack seemed to flicker off the all silver sheet metal like dying embers. The analysis from her helmet’s S.W.A.T. scanner confirmed her suspicions.

“Ugh … a force field,” the Yellow Ranger grumbled.

Without hesitation, the fighter pilot fired back. Halos of flame blue laser traveled into the path in which the Yellow Ranger was flying. Warning beeps and alarms filled the cockpit and quickly drowned out the hypnotic party mix.

“Shut up!” Z growled.

Grunting from the knowledge of the imminent impact, Z slammed shut the miniature monitor atop her console heeding the warnings and pulled back on her controls. The Yellow S.W.A.T. Flyer soared upward to make distance from the blast, but not quickly enough. The laser rings connected with the tail of her flyer, violently shaking the craft. The yellow lights inside the cockpit turned to red as sirens rang to indicate the significant damage.

“Just perfect,” Z said reaching for her comm. piece wired beside her mouth plate. “Yellow to Red, my flyer’s been struck. Engine 2 is out -- requesting to land on Fernovia ahead to assist field cadets.”

In the treacherous mayhem above Fernovia, a bright red and silver vessel swooped down on an enemy jet and opened fire. The jet was vanquished and its pilot along with it. In the red vessel otherwise known as the Red S.W.A.T. Flyer, B-Squad captain Sky Tate already had his next target in range and began to calculate a firing point. Z’s transmission just then fizzled over Red Ranger’s S.W.A.T. comm.

“Roger that, Yellow,” Sky responded swiftly. “Air cadets are holding up fine, but cadets on land are unable to trace any energy signatures from these unidentifiable foot soldiers. They would benefit from your S.W.A.T. technology. Be safe.”

“No energy signatures? How strange. I’m on my way now. Yellow out.”

The red flyer kept abreast of its potential next target and followed where it was shooting at an air cadet’s flyer. Only a handful of S.P.D. cadets had been summoned for this mission, though there are hundreds trained in air combat and are able to fight at a moment’s notice. These cadets were not exclusive to S.P.D. Earth Station – many came from the Nebula Academy, some even from the recently established academy on New Neptune. But the bulk of the cadets fighting on land were of S.P.D. Fernovia, where its own planet and base was under fire.

Sky’s mind wondered over the briefing Commander Cruger had given B-Squad and with-coming cadets prior to this operation. S.P.D. galaxy analysts had detected fast-moving vessels heading through the N9 galaxy, the galaxy Fernovia resides in. These vessels did not register with any military, police force, or licensed interplanetary shipping firm, but it was clear a convoy was traveling quickly to transport something to an unknown destination. Something beyond that didn’t sit right with Sky, something not obvious at first. A lingering question was begging to be answered – why the attack on Fernovia and not another planet or S.P.D. academy? Certainly, this was not the most conspicuous way to go about trafficking illegal cargo. Then it clicked.

“It’s a decoy!” the Red Ranger shouted to himself.

Sky dialed with urgency a transmission to all B-Squad officers.

“Team, continue to destroy all attackers. I’m setting course for quadrant eight.”

Syd shook her head. “Sky, there’s no one there. I have no trackers indicating flight activity.”

“You’re going to owe me big time later when I prove you wrong, cadet.” Sky replied already jetting into his said direction.

Syd shook her head again and continued fighting.

Another S.W.A.T. Flyer came racing beside its red twin as if it were competing in a race. Sky picked up on the vessel’s presence immediately and shook his head. His hand reached for his comm. piece to establish a link-up to the pilot of the Green S.W.A.T. Flyer.

“Red to Green, what do you think you’re doing?” came Sky’s voice into the emerald-lit cockpit.

A wide smile spread across the face behind the helmet previously commandeered by Bridge Carson. The Green Ranger answered back.

“Just following your lead, boss. Let’s tag team ‘em!.

“How about not and follow my orders?” Sky asked with low tolerance in his voice.

“I’d be more worried about the enemy flyer closing in on your tail there.”

Clearly unaware, Sky’s eyes darted down to his tracker. He had missed one. The Red Ranger entered a sequence to fire his tail-end lasers, but something had gone wrong. The command to utilize the back-end defense system was not responding.

“Not a good time for this!” Red said retrying the command.

The repetitive attempts were in vain – the command was locked-up. Sky turned to look at the Green Ranger knowing he needed his assistance and fast. The lesser-ranking cadet was one step ahead and thrust his tail cannon to a precise point. A burst of green-enveloped lasers consumed the metallic jet whole. The explosion rocked both the Green and Red S.W.A.T. Flyer, having been so close. Though saved, Sky was quick to make a mental note to speak to the cadet later about his help.

“What? Where’s my thank you?” Green asked.

“Go back, Cadet,” Red warned viciously trying not to let his discourse for his officer precede him.

The red flyer disappeared into the deep cosmos leaving the cadets and enemy pilots to continue on with their light show. Below on Fernovia, a free-falling figure flipped its way safely onto the jungle floor. Touching down with grace, the Yellow S.W.A.T. Ranger drew her Delta Enforcer and trekked her way speedily through the maze of forest. In the distance, faint explosions could be heard. Z followed the sound and headed in its direction. Quickly she paced through the terrain of towering trees until she met her destination – outside the forest. What she saw was all too familiar.

“Oh…no,” was all Z could mutter at the sight of the attack that resembled the storming of the Earth academy just four years ago.

Foot soldiers and fighter plans swarmed about the campus of SPD Fernovia. Cadets were everywhere on the exterior campus fighting the relentless warriors. Explosions from laser blasts erupted into the air every few seconds. Z couldn’t take it anymore. She ran forward to get involved. Opening fire, she pelted the exterior of the soldier that had an S.P.D. cadet up by its neck. Down the soldier went, but it wasn’t destroyed. It was a—

“Robot,” Yellow Ranger said getting a good look at the attacker.

The robot was nothing like a Krybot, or any other Troobian. It was easily seven feet tall. Its all silver exterior and cooper head piece gave off a bright luster and evidently was solidly built, as the robot did not succumb to Z’s Delta Enforcer so easily. Rising up, the bot threw a straight kick out at the Delta Ranger, which she quickly side stepped and swung the butt of her Delta Enforcer at its face. The bot then swiftly grabbed a hold of the S.W.A.T. weapon and brought its knee up beneath it. Instantly, the gun had bent like a thin piece of wire. Z was struck by the robot’s strength and speed, having no time to react. The robot then threw a punch at the Delta Ranger and landed its fist at the mouth plate of her helmet. Falling back from the fierce blow, Z hopped up and returned the favor with a right left combo. Each attack was thwarted. The robot took Z by her wrists and flung her over the ailing cadet she previously rescued.

“This isn’t good,” Yellow Ranger mumbled to herself. “I’m going to need backup.”

“I got you, Z!” came Bridge’s voice in her S.W.A.T. comm.

Above the Yellow Ranger came the Blue S.W.A.T. Flyer. Its canons released a round of lasers crashing around the towering robotic soldier. The bot flew backward from the impact and crashed onto the grass with sprocket pieces and wires falling out its bustless neck.

“Good timing, B,” Yellow Ranger said running over to the fallen cadet.

“Are you alright?” she asked helping the young male up.

“I’ll be fine, but our base is being overrun.”

“Where’s you’re A-Squad?”

“They’re somewhere here fighting. The bay doors are being blasted and they can’t get to their Delta Runners. What are we going to do?” the cadet asked holding his injured shoulder as he spoke.

“We’re going to keep fighting. Let’s go!”

In the sky, Blue Ranger rounded the Fernovian academy where more air fighters were blasting away at ground troops and S.P.D. Jets who tried to stop them. The odds didn’t look good, but it wasn’t stopping Bridge from doing his job.

“Syd, get down here. This base can’t take much more,” Bridge called over the comm.

“I’m on my way now,” the Pink Ranger answered immediately.

Fighting at the front doors of the academy were five multi-colored warriors whose suits closely resembled that of Earth station’s B-Squad. Together they charged forward with a fierce battle cry. Side by side they brandished blasters reaming out red, blue, green, yellow, and pink energy. The Fernovian A-Squad desperately defended their base and would not let one bot enter its doors. The Red Ranger leapt up and released a fury of red lasers at two robots. Both foot soldiers stumbled backward but clearly were not phased.

“This isn’t working!” the Green A-Squad Ranger said after sending a side kick to the robot lunging at him. “We need our zords!”

“Commander and Dr. Jaron are working on it I’m sure. Let’s keep at it, guys!” the Red A-Squad Ranger said snapping his twin pistols together. “Delta Blaster combo mode!”

A double dose of swirling red fire power shot forth and creamed the chest of the oncoming robotic soldier. Red Ranger swung the weapon over his shoulder and extended a downward thumb.

“You’re going down!”

Inside the base, at the heart of operations, sat the Command Center. Inside the sealed-off control room were two beings. A tall green figure in a black tunic stood monitoring the fight via main frame as another male, a humanoid with a clear-coated jewel embedded on his forehead, worked frantically on the keyboard. His busy eyes soon relaxed as he sprung up from his seat. The jewel on his forehead pulsated with a soft blue light.

“Commander Sage, I managed to realign the base defense system. On your word, sir.” Dr. Jaron announced.

Remaining mum, Commander Sage nodded as he continued to monitor the fight.

“Firing now,” Dr. Jaron said.

On the exterior of the base, a set of barrels extended out from their hidden compartments. Green energy gathered quickly and bursted out each barrel, leaving more sizable explosions in its wake. Around the campus, the robotic soldiers sailed skyward to meet their scorching end. The barrels changed their trajectory above and picked off each enemy jet within range.

“My turn!” Pink Ranger said swooping down in her S.W.A.T. Flyer.

Pink lasers joined the foray of fire power and impacted more enemy planes. The A-Squad below silently gave thanks to the cavalry as they fanned out to put an end to the remaining foot soldiers. Blue, Green, Yellow, and Pink connected their blasters with the device holstered on the opposite side of their belts to create Delta Max Strikers. Red Ranger summoned a blade of sizeable length as a grid of soft red light flushed over his suit to reveal a set of armor resembling that of a battlizer. Though the armor was almost a guarantee of victory in any battle, the leader of the Fernovian A-Squad didn’t feel too confident. He didn’t express it in his voice and certainly not in his fighting, but inside he feared a grave outcome. Nevertheless, he charged ahead.

“No one gets inside,” Red Ranger breathed swooping down with his blade.

In space, the battle escalated between S.P.D. cadets and enemy vessels. Not one Delta Flyer had been destroyed in the vicious battle, but the remaining dozen fighter planes refused to give. At a great distance away, Red Ranger found himself flying solo in a long stretch of space. He had been flying nearly ten minutes without any visual of a cargo vessel. He was certain it was out there as much as he was certain the item being transported was important enough to create an ambush so large for S.P.D. Fernovia to endure.

“Gamma scanners, perform read out,” Red Ranger ordered.

Responding immediately to the voice request, scanners began to search the space ahead with its gamma filters. Often, Kat would use these filters to detect any activity cloaked to evade standard tracking devices – a trick Sky picked up years ago as the Blue Ranger. The trick didn’t guarantee results, depending on the strength of the cloaking shield, but in this case it proved helpful. No more than 100 yards was the cargo vessel Sky was looking for.

“Gotcha,” the Red Ranger said thrusting forward.

The S.P.D. jet came racing beside the enemy trying to get a good look at who was piloting. If Sky didn’t know any better, he could have sworn a robot was manning the craft. The robot looked to its right and saw the Red Ranger. The cargo vessel thrust forward to make space between itself and the S.W.A.T. Flyer. Sky remained in close proximity the entire time and prepared to take action. The metallic red vessel revealed its side-mounted canons and opened fire. The cargo vessel rocked but remained mobile without significant damage.

“I knew it. Its metal is able to endure my laser fire."

Not noticing, the cargo ship fired back and blasted the side of the S.W.A.T. Flyer. Luckily, the impact was absorbed by uranium-strengthened metal Kat had upgraded the Flyers with. Still, it left a rather nasty burn mark.

A bright flash of blue and purple swirling light caught Red Ranger’s attention. Up ahead, a thin strip of radiating energy appeared and the cargo vessel was racing toward it. Undoubtedly, it was a getaway portal.

“Oh no you don’t,” Sky said accelerating his speed.

The Red S.W.A.T. Flyer thrust forward after the cargo vessel. Closer they came to the rip in space with speeds reaching near maximum. Sky’s craft lost the race as the cargo vessel entered the portal first and disappeared. The portal closed and the S.W.A.T. Flyer slowed to a hault having failed to apprehend the perp. Sky slammed a fist down on the dash and turned his craft around. There was nothing he could do now.

On Fernovia, SPD cadets continued to struggle with the foot soldiers. A-Squad Pink glided through the air and slashed her blade across the chest of the bot flying at her. She went into a reverse side kick as three of the robots surrounded her. Instinctively, Pink spun her sword about like a lasso to keep the bots at bay, but the weapon did not intimidate them. In fact, nothing could. The triad shot forth bolts of energy from their hallow eye sockets and hit Pink with enough force to send her flying across the field. Over head was the Pink S.W.A.T. Flyer with its pilot flipping down in her direction.

“Are you okay?” Syd asked coming to the aid of her pink counterpart.

“I’ll be fine,” A-Squad Pink said rising up with Syd's help.

The Green and Blue S.W.A.T. Flyers raced around the academy and opened fire on another group of robots. The soldiers went airborne and met their end.

“They’re down to approximately twenty fighters,” Blue Ranger said unfastening his harness. “Let’s get down there.”

“I’m with you,” Green Ranger said opening his hatch.

Together the two Rangers flipped out of their flyers and made their landing with their Delta Enforcers already in hand. Blue Ranger spun-kicked a robot and followed up with a blast of laser power. The robot fell back as the Green Ranger flipped over his partner and laid down a second round of green-shaded energy on the same bot. The mechanical soldier shook as he overloaded and broke apart in several pieces.

B-Squad Yellow came to the aid of A-Squad Yellow and slammed a forward flip kick into the bot she was tangling with.

“Good timing,” the Fernovian Yellow Ranger said clasping hands with her yellow counterpart.

The two Yellows cross-somersaulted past the oncoming robot and spun back around with a high-cross kick. Both girls aimed their respective blasters and released a double dose of yellow fire power, leaving a gaping hole in its chest. The bot fell back as its inner-clock work erupted out the cavity.

A-Squad Blue and Green joined their respective counterparts ready to fire.

“Four times the power. This will be sweet!” B-Squad Green hooted.

“Alright, gentlemen! Fire!” B-Squad Blue ordered.

A combined orb of green and blue energy shot forth at five bots, creating yet another mushroom cloud of fire and smoke. Robot pieces fell every which way as the four Ranger men gathered with their teammates.

“That was great teamwork, everyone!” A-Squad Blue said clasping hands with his B-Squad equal. “Wait, where’s Mika?”

“Who?” asked Syd.

“There he is!” A-Squad Pink pointed.

The A-Squad Red Ranger flipped through the sky in a twisting motion as his twin pistols rained down laser power on the foot soldiers below. Landing on one knee, he spun around with both blasters extended out and fired. Each robot jumped up, just missing the blast. Landing in crouched positions, the gang of bots released their fire power from their soulless eye sockets. The Red Ranger flew up from the great force emitting from the blast that barely missed him. Landing roughly back on the ground, he looked up to see the bots rapidly approaching. Unexpectedly, red fire power rained from the sky, knocking all bots onto their backs. The B-Squad Red Ranger landed gracefully on one knee with his Delta Enforcer in hand. He then turned to face his red counterpart.

“That was close,” Sky said offering a hand.

“Thank you,” A-Squad Red said rising up.

Mika’s eyes surveyed the battle field. There were fires everywhere, mostly from the destroyed robot parts, some from the patches of forest encompassing the academy. Fernovian cadets walked and limped their way to their lead fighter. Everyone was worn, some bloody, some unable to walk without assistance from their peers. Sky was almost afraid to look these people in the eye, personally feeling guilty for not making it back to the planet any sooner. Mika was just as afraid to turn to see the condition the base laid in, but he did.

“It’s – it’s…” he couldn’t finish his sentence.

“It going to be alright,” Sky said offering a hand to Mika’s shoulder.

A-Squad and B-Squad gathered around their respective leaders and observed the disastrous condition of the Fernovian academy. A sad silence was shared by all, but Sky’s words were true though the Fernovians did not feel so at the time. Bridge turned away from the wreckage as his eyes landed on a robot part. It was the bust piece disconnected from the rest of its body. Kneeling down, the Blue Ranger scooped the head in both hands and carefully examined it.

“Whoever made you, I’m sure we’ll be hearing from them again real soon.”


***


“Incredible,” was the single-word response from S.P.D. doctor and head analyst Kat Manx.

The glass panel slid open allowing her to enter the test range in which five robots stood side by side about two feet apart. Another person entered the all-white room, a male wearing an identical lab coat that read SPD:GC on its breast pocket. Kat’s awe-struck expression left a satisfying grin on the man’s lips.

“They hit every target with such fluid and calculated motion. This is incredible,” Dr. Manx said referring to the holographic images projected moments ago for shooting purposes.

“Don’t be so surprised. If it wasn’t for your programming genius, these things would be mere prototypes only good for some science fiction movie.”

“Hardly, Dr. Knalk. Anything I contributed to the project was only enhanced by your ability to take what I did and translate it into a mathematical language I sorely am not familiar with,” Kat said trying to hide her embarrassment.

The feline humanoid walked about the five robots and examined their innovative design. Slim, contoured bodies allowed quicker movement than their bulkier predecessors. Their shoulder plates that once pointed out now hugged the shoulder blade itself for better protection. The traditional blue torso and police color alarms were now a simple brush of cobalt blue and metallic silver. More notably, on their backs were large black letters reading S.P.D. with the words Centurion Officer beneath it in smaller text and the badge insignia resting top and center on the helmet.

“Once the council approves, these things will be mass produced and shipped out across the universe. Just think, all colonies with insufficient militaries will soon be able to have the protection of S.P.D. on their side,” Dr. Knalk said running a hand down the arm of one of the Centurions.

Kat’s smile faded at the reminder. She had unresolved feelings concerning the matter of Space Patrol Delta offering protection at a price. Dr. Knalk picked up on her mood change and gave a reassuring smile.

“I know what you’re thinking and I implore you to wait until all the facts are in concerning the Blue Centurion Reform Program,” Dr. Knalk said offering a hand to her shoulder.

Kat put on a small grin, having believed his words. It was easy to believe and trust Dr. Knalk, or Jameson as he insisted on her addressing him as. Kat’s stay for the past six weeks at Galaxy Command was grueling, having worked long shifts with a team of geniuses much like herself. More closely she had worked with Jameson Knalk, one of the two military technology directors who lived on base. Though she missed home, Kat found herself enjoying the challenge that new technology presented her. She learned a lot by spending long hours by Dr. Knalk’s side, enough time where he felt comfortable to speak on a first name basis. Kat secretly wished she wasn’t so hung up on protocol. Many-a-time she had slipped and kept addressing him as Dr. Knalk rather than his first name. If Kat didn’t find Jameson’s subtle charisma appealing as she did, she would be more inclined to stick with the level of professionalism that she prides her reputation on.

“So should we contact Supreme Commander Birdie now and give him the good news?” Kat asked fighting back a yawn.

“At this time of night?”

“He did instruct us to inform him immediately of any milestones.”

“Undoubtedbly, he meant during the hours he’s awake,” Jameson grinned.

“Oh. Right,” Kat feeling slightly embarrassed once more.

“The rest of the team clocked out hours ago. We deserve a good night’s rest before informing Supreme Commander in the morning, wouldn’t you say?”

“Or what’s left of night,” Kat said checking her watch.

Jameson checked his, too. “Wow. It’s nearly dawn.”

“I suppose I could grab a quick cat nap before breakfast. Have a good morning, Doctor … I am mean Jameson.”

Jameson softly chuckled and nodded. “I don’t know about you, but I could go for something right now, as tired as I am.”

“As I.”

“The cafeteria should be serving right about now. Would you like to join me?”

“Oh,” Kat said clearly caught-off guard by the unexpected offer. “Well – sure?”

“You don’t sound so sure,” Jameson said.

“Sure I’m sure. I’m sure,” Kat insisted, then realizing how ridiculous she had sounded. “Sorry. … It’s been a long night.”

“No sweat. I’ll hit the lights and shut down in here. Meet you there in five?”

“Okay then. I’ll see you there.”

With that, Kat turned and left the testing range. Jameson watched her leave as another satisfied smile spread across his face.

[Lt. Cmdr. Radner]

Interesting start, looking forward to your next update.

[BLANKS]

wow, much major add on's from the segment that you IM'ed me bout a week ago. Definatly can tell we have a winner this time around. Will add my review to ff.net later on

[Siraaj]

Pretty impressed writing.

[Wes Janson]

Printing it out now. Looks delicious.

[Angelfox]

Bow down, a master has returned to the fold

[TBF]

Awesome stuff. I look forward to reading this.

Also, why are you printing it, Wes?

[Eternal]

Lt. Cmdr. Radner, Brandon B, Siraaj, Wes Janson, Angelfox, and TBF, I thank you all for your replies and comments. Right now the schedule looks on the up to squeeze in this story for regular updates. I hope it stays that way. I'm already working on chapter 2. Keep checking for updates!

[Nic]

I just finished reading. Awesome first chapter, Eternal. I was really able to visualize the action sequences, which were great. I'm intrigued to know the identity of your Green Ranger. It's been a while since I was truly impressed by a fanfic. This not only kept my attention, but it had me wanting to rush through to see what would happen next.

Great idea with the Blue Centurion stuff. Can't wait to read the next chapter.

[Wes Janson]

Also, why are you printing it, Wes?

Because it's easier on my eyes.

Just finished reading. I'm on my PDA, so the full review will come later. I will say this:

The dialogue is a bit hokey in several places ("drats" and "curses" are the biggest offenders). And certain areas could benefit from more description. I'll explain everything a little later, but all in all, hell of an opening, I'd say. Great job, E!

[havemercy]

Being an SPD shipper I though Id add my 2 pennies. Wes is right about those two words but the descriptions were just right, not too much and not too little. Awesome action writing and mystery building up about that cargo ship and is that a possible romance I see for kat?? A pretty decent opening chapter.

[Eternal]

AJ Oliver, thanks for the comments about the action sequences. I usually stink at those. You'll learn of Green Ranger in the next chapter. The Centurion Officers will also get their turn soon enough.

Wes, on your indirect recommendation, I chucked those words and replaced them. I was aiming to keep profanity to a minimum and it looks I may have chosen some offensive words of other kind. I look forward to your next reply.

havemercy, the infamous havemercy ... see reply above. More to come about the cargo and Kat.

[PHAETON]

Good Start Eternal, I just don't know why wouldn't the B-squad recoginze the Cogs from the Archives but other than that pretty good...Keep it comming

[Eternal]

Phaeton, it'll be explained in due time. I'm fully aware their archives would keep the Cogs on files. Thanks for your interest though.

4 pages written thus far. Hopefully by Friday it'll be done.

[Wes Janson]

Okie-dokie. Here's my full dissection of your first part. Don't worry, I won't be this anal in subsequent releases. However, there are a few areas I believe you could strengthen and become a more flexible author.

Okay. Like I said before, this is an action-packed opening. It has a lot going on with it, but for the most part, I think you've handled the content well.

I'm glad you modified the dialogue. There's absolutely no reason to have these characters "curse", as they don't do so during the program. However, a good rule of thumb in that regard is to stick with what's been written on the show: "Man! No! Oh great... Brutal! Etcetera." Grunting is also appropriate in this context.

There were only a few areas where I think the dialogue could have been a little more natural:

"How about not and follow my orders" doesn't really flow off my tongue well when I read that out loud, for example. Just to give an example of what I like to do, I read every single line of spoken dialogue in my writing out loud. If it sounds funny to me or not something that particular character would say, I scrap it and try something else. This especially comes in handy for some of the longer deliveries, as you tend to make sentences shorter -- or with more pauses -- when it comes time to breathe.

I'm going to politely disagree with Havemercy on the descriptive area. By no means am I suggesting to be as prolifically descriptive as I can be. That's dangerous. >_> However, too little description can be equally as frustrating, leaving the reader to wonder if he or she is on the same page as you. The Delta Flyers are a prime example. You actually give a more complete picture of the "sleek" enemy aircraft than you do the Delta Flyers. Are the Flyers equally as sleek? Are they identical to each other? Do they look intimidating, bristling with weapons? Or are they small and agile fighter craft? Someone like me, who doesn't have a fresh remembrance of the Flyers, has to work more at seeing it in my mind's eye. So in a case like this -- even though you're writing for people who know the canon -- you should still sprinkle in some light description to keep us right there with you. You don't need to spend an entire paragraph describing what a Ranger looks like. But here, we're missing some of the bare basics.


Now, there was one paragraph that I couldn't quite fully understand.

Sky’s mind wondered over the briefing Commander Cruger had given B-Squad and with-coming cadets prior to this operation. S.P.D. galaxy analysts had detected fast-moving vessels heading through the N9 galaxy, the galaxy Fernovia resides in. These vessels did not register with any military, police force, or licensed interplanetary shipping firm, but it was clear a convoy was traveling quickly to transport something to an unknown destination. Something beyond that didn’t sit right with Sky, something not obvious at first. A lingering question was begging to be answered – why the attack on Fernovia and not another planet or S.P.D. academy? Certainly, this was not the most conspicuous way to go about trafficking illegal cargo. Then it clicked.

Here, Sky supposedly makes a connection between unmarked vessels traveling through the galaxy and the battle happening on Fernovia. Here's my question: when were these unknown vessels detected? Just before the battle? Days before the battle? During the battle? Were the cadets made aware of them during their briefing? Not knowing this, my first thought when Sky turned tail was "where the hell is he going, and why?" You're not obligated to spell anything out for us, but it looked as if you tried to lend some hints to the reader so that we could figure it out along with Sky, not have him piece the evidence together all by himself.

Ah yes. Another area of description: voices. Watching the show, I know how each known character is supposed to sound. However, some of your new characters don't have "voices". What do they sound like? Were they light and melodic? Or gruff and baritone? This was especially frustrating with your new Green Ranger, as I was wary to picture a voice type for him, fearing I'd be completely wrong by the time you reveal his identity.

Another rule of thumb for descriptions: take the time to describe what's most important. If you have a one-time character that'll never be seen again, then no, you don't need to spend much -- if at all -- any time going into great detail over his appearance or voice. However, I assume the Green Ranger will be prominent in your story. So from the very beginning, we need to get a picture of him if he is to play any kind of important role. It signals to the reader: "oh, I'd better pay attention to this guy if Eternal's spending the time to describe his voice to me."

It might not seem like a big deal, but a lot of readers will pick up on the little things to make the read a more complete and enjoyable experience.

Now, I'm going to delve into some of the techincals...

Inside the base, at the heart of operations, sat the Command Center. Inside the sealed-off control room were two beings. A tall green figure in a black tunic stood monitoring the fight via main frame as another male, a humanoid with a clear-coated jewel embedded on his forehead, worked frantically on the keyboard. His busy eyes soon relaxed as he sprung up from his seat. The jewel on his forehead pulsated with a soft blue light.

This paragraph is rather cumbersome, and you had a couple more in similar disarray. The first two sentences could easily be combined:

"Sealed off inside the base's Command Center, two officers monitored the hectic battle on and around the planet."

You'll be able to pick up on this kind of thing after several read-throughs. You'll spot these ideas, and condense them into more efficient sentences.

And one last thin you should be aware of: try and keep your sentences from ending in prepositions.

S.P.D. galaxy analysts had detected fast-moving vessels heading through the N9 galaxy, the galaxy Fernovia resides in.

That "in" at the end can be completely eliminated. The sentence is still correct. However, phrases like "locked-up" is fine, and doesn't need to be modified at the end of a sentence. But again, this comes from re-reading your work multiple times, tightening it up after each read-through.

So, the bottom line: a little more basic description, work on the dialogue a bit, and give your draft several read-throughs to tighten up your stile.

Now, I know you won't take this dissection as a hit to your talent. Far from it. I used to be an assistant instructor for creative writing. I've seen a lot of styles through my days, and believe me when I say that if you take the time to tighten up, you can ramp your style up to A-grade professional level quite easily. You're already better than several "professional" authors I've read. And I wouldn't have taken the time to critique you if I didn't think you were worth it. Keep on writing, bruddah.

I can't wait to see where this goes. Interested in seeing just who is the new Green Ranger. -_^

[Eternal]

I must say I'm glad I kept this page in the background while I was eating dinner. First, thank you for taking the time to really give what most people don't -- fleshed out, real deal feedback. Now that I know you instructed people in creative writing, I understand why you are the A-level writer as evidenced by your SPD fic.

How about not and follow my orders was spoken in the condescending manner Sky has been known for, which I didn't effectively convey apparently. Looking back, I did skip out drastically on the flyers' details. I left it to minor mentions of their paint job and the correlating lights inside their respective cockpits. I will definitely have to touch that up.

The Sky's mind wondered over paragraph was not my favorite I must confess. I felt Doggie's debriefing made it clear that the vessels were on their way and they had to be stopped before the fact of the ambush. The ambush on Fernovia was obviously the puzzling part to Sky. They couldn't have known it until after the fact when the sting went down. Having to fight made him realize the attack was uncalculated and led him to the idea that it was merely a diversion to let the cargo ship make the slip, thus Sky was certain it was out there as much as he was certain the item being transported was important enough to create an ambush so large for S.P.D. Fernovia to endure..

As far as voices go, I personally don't feel this was the time to go into deep character exploration. It was a shoot-or-die type of scene, not a "get to know the A-Squad and watch the banter unfold" thing. That's what future chapters are for. I understand and agree with your mention of their voice, but it wasn't appropriate at this time. Howbeit, Mika (Fernovia's Red) did express discouragement, just a little taste of his inner-conflict to be touched on later. The same goes for B-Green. This chapter wasn't about him or his character, beside the demonstration of his willingness to help Sky, despite Sky's objection. The dude even saved his hide. Chapter two will give you what you're looking for, but again this chapter was to establish the basics:

1) This is four years post-Endings.
2). The team has a Green again but whom? Since when?
3.) Other S.P.D. squads exist outside Earth.
4.) Kat's role in ushering in the Centurions, the latest addition to S.P.D.'s military
5.) S.P.D.'s organizational shift (protection at a price)

These five points are more than enough to entice the reader to keep reading to have their questions answered I feel.

The Inside the base, at the heart of operations paragraph was also not one of my favorites. When I wrote it, my intent was to not steal the focus by exploring new characters, but it doesn't mean I should have neglected at least describing the setting. That I blew, as the technical side of the writing per your mention.

I know this isn't a hit at my ability to write. If anything, it's encouraging that a professional/instructor took the time out to give me what I need in order to hone my skills. The subsequent chapters will indeed get to the things you mentioned (i.e. - voices) but for now the basic set up is all I set out to accomplish. Again, Wes, thank you.

[Wes Janson]

The Sky's mind wondered over paragraph was not my favorite I must confess. I felt Doggie's debriefing made it clear that the vessels were on their way and they had to be stopped before the fact of the ambush. The ambush on Fernovia was obviously the puzzling part to Sky. They couldn't have known it until after the fact when the sting went down. Having to fight made him realize the attack was uncalculated and led him to the idea that it was merely a diversion to let the cargo ship make the slip, thus Sky was certain it was out there as much as he was certain the item being transported was important enough to create an ambush so large for S.P.D. Fernovia to endure..

Ah, I gotcha. I read the paragraph several times, and I didn't really catch that.

As far as voices go, I personally don't feel this was the time to go into deep character exploration. It was a shoot-or-die type of scene, not a "get to know the A-Squad and watch the banter unfold" thing. That's what future chapters are for. I understand and agree with your mention of their voice, but it wasn't appropriate at this time. Howbeit, Mika (Fernovia's Red) did express discouragement, just a little taste of his inner-conflict to be touched on later. The same goes for B-Green. This chapter wasn't about him or his character, beside the demonstration of his willingness to help Sky, despite Sky's objection. The dude even saved his hide.

I neglected to say that you did capture quite a bit of character in your Rangers. I didn't mean to insinuate that the lack of voice description did anything to hamper that.

I'm a big believer in making a good first impression; something I personally believe too many writers neglect to realize. And again, I just want to stress that I wasn't suggesting you stop the scene to describe the voices of all of your characters. As far as I'm concerned, if there was any one character that needed the most attention, it'd be the mysterious Green Ranger. Injecting discription while keeping a brisk pace is almost an art in itself, though it's a lot simpler than a lot of writers think. The trick is to make each word in that one sentence of description count.

Check out this example:

“Just following your lead, boss. Let’s tag team ‘em!" he said, elation rumbling into his trademark gruff tone.

Or...

“Just following your lead, boss. Let’s tag team ‘em!" he said, boisterous and smooth.

Or whatever else your own style paints.

It's just a dash of color to your character so that the reader has a more complete first impression. I don't want you to be afraid of being firm and laying out the basic colors of your characters. Knowing when to inject it, and when to omit, shows you have control over all aspects of your style.

This is the point when I tell students to take risks and do what they thought might not have worked. Because the worst case is that you re-read it, and yes, it is too bogged down with description; you'll then be forced to omit what you deem isn't necessary. But a fast-pace scene will always be a fast-pace scene without it, so you'll never really know it unless you put it there. Don't be fooled by length, either, since readers typically read a little faster during these types of scenes. I could also go into technical "how time works in the readers' minds" type of thing, but I'll spare you the grim details.

'-p

Writing's a trial and error deal. Try something: if it works, fantastic. If it doesn't, you just learned about another limitation that you might want to work on, or to avoid completely, making you a stronger writer in either case.

But ultimate, you are the decider. If it really doesn't work for you, then that's just simply your personal style.

Chapter two will give you what you're looking for, but again this chapter was to establish the basics:

1) This is four years post-Endings.
2). The team has a Green again but whom? Since when?
3.) Other S.P.D. squads exist outside Earth.
4.) Kat's role in ushering in the Centurions, the latest addition to S.P.D.'s military
5.) S.P.D.'s organizational shift (protection at a price)

These five points are more than enough to entice the reader to keep reading to have their questions answered I feel.

Yes, all five points were touched in proper. If that's what you were aiming for, bull's eye!

I know this isn't a hit at my ability to write. If anything, it's encouraging that a professional/instructor took the time out to give me what I need in order to hone my skills. The subsequent chapters will indeed get to the things you mentioned (i.e. - voices) but for now the basic set up is all I set out to accomplish. Again, Wes, thank you.

Aw dude, it's my pleasure. Believe me, I learn just as much as you do by giving my opinions and suggestions. So I actually get something out of it as well. I know what I need to work on with my own personal style; I can't get sharper if I'm not exposed to different ways of accomplishing the same goals.

[Eternal]

Sorry it took so long. As I prefaced, time is not on my side. I had some rearranging to do with scenes, so Jack is pushed back a chapter as is Fernovia's A-Squad character development. Thanks for the reviews again and go vote in FFOTM! Thanks for the nods and support.

__________________________________________




The coordinates referred to as the edge of N9 had a colorful haze to it, a gassy cloud serving as a travel marker of sorts to the space traveler looking to navigate to and away from the 13-planet galaxy. Stationed within naked eye view of the gas cloud were two large crafts each baring the S.P.D. badge insignia. Hundreds of docking ports dotted the exterior of the larger craft, each cranny lit like icy dots to help cadets navigate safely back on board. Each jet glided into their assigned bay to dock like bees returning to the hive, the name given by its Earthly occupants, largely due to its complex, nest-like exterior.

The ship neighboring close by was smaller in comparison, having only six docking bays. These bays were located instead near the bottom of the ship and illuminated six specific colors – red, blue, green, yellow, pink, and white. The S.W.A.T. Mega Ship prepared to receive its inhabitants as B-Squad came into close proximity. Each door slid open allowing the S.W.A.T. Flyers to dock with ease into their respective chambers.

Above the flyer bay at the hull was one man and one woman seated at the controls. Both were suited in identical S.P.D. uniforms. The drab gray and silver nylon suits were standard for non-Ranger cadets, but the two filled significant roles that a particular color could never really dignify.

“The Flyers are docked and the Rangers are on their way up,” Sophie gaily reported.

“And Lieutenant Gonzalez from the Hive reports Delta Cadets are continuing to dock and not one causality is among them,” Boom reported giving his partner a pleased smile.

Sophie returned the expression as the doors behind them slid open.

“Welcome back, guys,” Boom said standing with Sophie to greet the B-Squad.

Four young adults entered the control room with an enervated disposition. Despite their victory, their silence made their safe return less than celebratory knowing what happened on Fernovia. The soberness they brought inside carried onto Boom and Sophie, whose smiles disappeared. And who could blame them? It was just four years ago when the Troobians made the Earth academy their personal playhouse. The process to rebuild was a time they were eager to put behind them. Now it was back at the forefronts of their minds and eyes.

Sky took a seat in the commander chair encompassed by the other four and slouched back. Bridge did the same in his, then the girls.

“Glad you guys made it back safely,” was all Sophie could offer.

“Thanks,” Bridge answered for the team, his eyes lowered.

Boom surveyed the officers and presented a logical question. “Where is Cadet Worthen?”

Sky’s forehead creased. “Yeah. Where is he?”

Incidentally, the door slid open and in came the subject of Boom’s inquiry, still fully suited in the Green Ranger costume.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Sky asked growing angry as he came to face the cadet.

“Whoa, boss. I was just checking over the Flyer for any damage worth reporting to Specialist Boom. I apologize for my tardiness,” Green answered.

“Let Boom worry about the Flyers. I’m talking about you still being morphed. You know the protocol, cadet!”

“Sky—“ Syd began, but then was shut down by the piercing look he shot her.

“Okay! I’m sorry!” Green said crossing his left hand over the crux of the opposite wrist. “Power down.”

Green power hummed its soft haze and retracted back into the Grid, revealing the civilian form within. There stood a younger male with a hard face to his captain. Sky stared harder into the hazel eyes of the cadet, a stare only the cold blue eyes of the B-Squad Red Ranger could give to make newer and older cadets alike quiver internally with fear. To add to that fear, Sky was huge. The past several years gave the 6’2 combat specialist the time to train extensively to where even his peers felt he had overdone it. Even the wardrobe department at base had to keep up, having assembled three new cadet uniforms in the past three years to accommodate his building stature.

“It’s on my highest recommendation you stay out of my sight until we reach base. Is that understood?”

The slightly shorter cadet stayed mum for a moment longer before giving his response.

“Yes, sir,” Cadet Worthen said crossing a bowed forearm across his chest, the standard motion one must make to acknowledge superior-ranking officers.

“Dismissed,” Sky seethed.

Cadet Worthen turned and left through the same door in which he came. Z then got up from her chair and confronted the ill-tempered squad leader.

“Sky, what was that about?” the third-ranking officer asked apparently addled from his reaction.

“What do you mean, Z?” the Red officer asked anticipating the confrontation.

“Ben didn’t do anything wrong. He was just being nice.”

Sky shook his head disapprovingly, even grinning at the audacious statement. “Everyone here knows Ben’s full of it. He was just looking for an excuse to parade around in his suit as long as he could get away with it.”

“No. That’s what you want to believe. You’re bagging on him just because you’re in a piss-ass mood. Don’t go getting on someone just because you want to feel better,” Z pointed in his face.

“Pardon me? And what is it that I so desperately need to feel better about?”

“Here we go again,” Syd said flipping through the gossip magazine that featured her face on the cover.

“For starters,” Z began. “You can’t apprehend a single vessel when you’re supposed to be our academy’s top pilot.”

“This is coming from someone who had her flyer shot down and her Delta Enforcer bent like a spoon,” Sky cooed.

Boom and Sophie turned around and returned to their seats, having found the hostile exchange too uncomfortable to stand witness.

“Well go on, Z,” Sky beckoned with crossing arms. “Enlighten us with what else you feel I can’t do right.”

“Gladly!”

“Guys!” Bridge hollered over them. “Cool it. That’s enough.”

“Yes, that is enough,” Sky concurred with the Blue Ranger. “I’m your commanding officer, Delgado. If you’re going to me address me like an E-Squad rookie, you have another thing coming, you got that?”

“Don’t you dare pull rank on me! I don’t care who you are. You can’t just go off because you’re mad at yourself!”

“I’m sure Commander Cruger will beg to differ over your objections about my leadership when we see him tomorrow in our debriefing.”

“Typical – running to Doggie whenever someone won’t bend your way. Do whatever makes your dick hard, Sky.”

“Oh snap,” Bridge muffled into his glove.

Z turned and left out the same door Ben had. Sky looked over his shoulder, feeling the eyes of the ship’s other four occupants on his back.

“Do any of you have anything else to add?”

Their silence answered his question as the sullen squad captain left out the door. Syd exchanged glances with Bridge, who appeared to be struggling behind his glove.

“What?” Sydney asked.

“Did you hear what she said?” Bridge blurted. “She said—“

“I heard, Bridge,” the Pink Ranger said going back to her magazine. “Grow up.”

Sophie, though with her back turned from them, also rolled her eyes. Boom appeared equally amused, thus the pursed smile on his lips.

“It was kind of funny,” he said sheepishly, hoping in vain to convince Sophie.

The cyborg scowled her brows at the gadget engineer and turned her focus back to the black frontier.

Further into the S.W.A.T. Mega Ship were the sleeping quarters residing on the base floor of the vessel. Much like the docking bays, each door had a color-specific luminescence denoting its Ranger assignment. Behind the green-lit door lay Cadet Benjamin Worthen with his eyes to the ceiling and his arms folded behind his head. The twenty-one year old was silent in his anger; now sans the green and silver S.P.D. jacket he previously bore. He freed one hand and ran it through his cropped brown hair trying not to let Sky’s words eat at him. The attempt was futile as Ben picked up the pillow to chuck. In the same motion, the door of the quarters slid open as the pillow went flying.

“There are other ways to tell me to go away you know,” Z said catching the white-sheeted object.

Ben shrugged as he sat up. “Try knocking first and then I can tell you.”

“Kid, I just stood up for your dumb behind. The least you can do is let me in.”

Z tossed the pillow back at Ben, which he caught and placed back behind his head. The Yellow officer came and sat at the foot of the bed and glared at her younger peer.

“Sorry,” Ben grumbled rolling his eyes back up to the ceiling.

“It’s fine. I’m burning just as hot,” Z said managing a half-smile to help dilute her angry feelings.

“Yeah, I could hear you and Sky going at it all the way from here. What’d you say to him?”

“Not even close to what I really wanted to say. I can’t wait until we get back to Earth so he and I won’t have to cross paths for an entire week.”

“Where are you going?” Ben asked.

“I have a week of vacation I need to use or I’m going to lose it,” Z said playing with the zipper of the green S.P.D. jacket that lay beside her. “Let me ask you something.”

“Alright?”

“Do you feel you’re really ready for this?” Z asked changing roles from friend to C-Squad advisor.

“For B-Squad?” Ben asked uncrossing his arms, his attention now fully Z’s. “Most definitely. It’s been almost a solid two months standing in with you guys, the longest anyone in C-Squad has lasted as a stand-in as Green. I’ve done everything asked of me. I even put up with Sky’s kiss my ass attitude as of late.”

Z laughed. “Haven’t we all? Let me ask you something else.”

“Shoot.”

“Did you stay morphed earlier just to keep wearing the costume or were you really checking on your Flyer?”

Ben dreaded the question, especially since it came from Z. He could play bull with Bridge, Syd and sometimes Sky, but never with Z. The Yellow officer waited for his response.

“Well,” Ben began. “I—“

“Ben, oh my God. I just stood up to Sky for you, doofus.”

“Green’s my color and I like the costume! I wasn’t bothering anyone!”

Z stood with Ben’s jacket in hand. “See this? This means something, hon. I have to be able to trust you on and off the field, you understand?”

“Yeah, but—“

“No, Ben. No buts. It can’t be like this. You’re my boy but I’m still your advisor and it’s things like this that’ll cost you when the decision’s finally made.”

“Z, you can’t! You know out of anyone on C-Squad I’m the most qualified. You’ve seen my scores and you saw me kicking some heavy metal ass out there today. I’m your guy.”

“Yeah, but your group assessment scores still haven’t been brought up to where we discussed in your last evaluation.”

Ben rolled his eyes and sat back again. “Whatever. You’ll be making a mistake if you go with someone else. … When are you guys deciding anyhow?”

“I don’t know –- soon I’m told. That’s why it’s important to really watch how you handle yourself in everything. I would love to have someone like you on B-Squad, Ben. I really would. You’re quick to help, you’re a good shot, and yeah you kicked some heavy metal ass today, but you have to bring as much honor to the team as this jacket and badge represents,” Z said tossing the article back at Ben.

The younger adult caught the jacket and looked it over, his eyes studying the dog head insignia on the right breast. Everything he worked for, everything he trained at was represented by the simple silhouette of a Syrian.

“Okay, Z … I mean Officer Delgado,” Ben said pushing a wry grin onto his lips.

“Good. The sooner we get a full-time Green, the sooner we can breathe easier,” Z said sitting back down on the bed, her sober resolve suddenly deflated into a shallow frown.

“What do you mean?”

Z smiled at the flood of memories involving past missions and battles. It wasn’t necessarily a happy smile.

“We’re tired, Ben,” she said looking up at the youth with doleful brown eyes. “Five seemed to be the magic formula. Even at times we needed seven to get the job done, but as long as we had the core group together we would always turn out alright.”

“But you’re alright now,” Ben said trying to offer some type of support, but still not understanding. “And there are field cadets – you have an entire army at your disposal.”

“Hardly,” Z chortled pushing back the intrusive locks of hair dangling in front of her face. “They can’t always go where we go. They hardly ever do for the matter.”

“Oh…”

“After we’re up to full strength again, it’ll only be a matter of weeks until Commander gets G.C. to get C-Squad active with morphers of their own.”

“C-Squad as active Rangers? So the rumors are true then,” Ben said feeling subtly elated from the news.

“Yes. Even if you don’t make the final cut, I have no doubt you’ll go active in C-Squad.”

“Don’t say that. I am going to make the final cut.”

“Ben—“ Z started.

“No. Hear me out,” Ben interrupted. “You remember that Wednesday afternoon? It was May 7, 2025.”

“2025, my first year? Oh wow. So much happened then.”

“Well I remember that day fine. It was when D-Squad started to train under the guise of B-Squad. It was the day before the Delta Command Megazord first went online. Is it starting to click?”

“Oh right,” Z said remembering now. “You were one cocky son of a gun. Still are.”

Ben smiled.

“Mr. If Any Krybots Try to Mess with Me I’ll be Ready. Please!” Z laughed heartedly. “You got your butt handed to ya! All of you did, well except for Sophie. … Those were some good times.”

Z’s eyes fell to the reminiscent fog clouding her mind. Her first year at S.P.D. turned her life around in the most unimaginable way. The road to something bigger ended and a new start had begun, for both her and long time friend Jack Landors. It was also the year she fell in love for the first time in her life.

“Z?” Ben asked, his volume louder than usual to gain her attention.

“Oh, I’m sorry, Ben. You were saying?” Z asked him.

“I said I’ve paid my dues. It’s time I get to step up and become a B-Squad Power Ranger.”

Z grimaced and got up from the bed. “I remember when Jack and I first came to the Earth academy. Jack and Sky were at each other’s throats. I didn’t realize it at first, but Sky was jealous. Bridge and Syd took to him, and the other cadets at the academy. It took a while for Sky to realize there’s room for everyone. Ben, there’s other people in C-Squad who are as capable of being a B-Squad Power Ranger.”

Ben stayed quiet with his eyes away from the Yellow Ranger’s.

“But we could use the help by having more Rangers. That’s for sure,” Z said heading to the door. “One moment we’re on the beat for petty crooks, and then it’s off to save some colony from a gang of ten-legged, ten-story tall beetles with a serious overbite. We can’t continue to keep up like this.”

Ben nodded in agreement. “Then I trust you’ll make the right decision about the next Green Ranger.”

“We will –- in time. I have to get some rest before I fall asleep standing here.”

“Take it easy, boss lady.”

***


The room sat dark, quiet as normal. That was until the sound of grinding gears filled the void and lit what was revealed to be a gigantic hangar. The steel walls were laden with purple lights coursing through the crevices in a grid-like fashion, indicating the large doors at the nose of the room were to part at any given second. Marching feet echoed throughout the hangar as the twin steel doors began to part as expected, their echoing steps soon met by the sound of whirling engines.

A large cargo vessel slowly engaged itself into the hangar, the vessel that had given the B-Squad Red Ranger the slip only hours ago. There to greet it were a small army of the robotic foot soldiers whose comrades fought to their end earlier on Fernovia. The doors of the hangar began to shut when the vessel’s hatch opened and produced a flight of stairs. Four of the silver bots marched in a perfect quad-formation up the steps and entered the cargo ship. They reappeared within moments with a casket-like chamber hoisted over each of their shoulders.

“Set it down there,” came an echoing voice.

The bots obeyed, and then simultaneously turned their hallow eyes whence the voice came. In the shadows of the catwalk above stood a figure, his being hidden from the minions below.

“You have done well, Cogs,” the voice spoke again.

His, or its eyes rather, studied the long, solid-gray case. He could hear the faint muffle come from the box and it pleased him. His cold metal shell grew hot at the thought of his long-planned conquest and activated the soft yellow lights that were his eyes. They narrowed with evil.

“It has begun.”


* * *

“Yes I know. … I know. … I know! I’m sorry, Jonathan! I just don’t have the time to do a taping for Good Morning, Mars! I’m very busy for the next –- forever,” Syd pouted, her eyes looking up at the rec. room’s wall clock and then back down at her P.D.A.’s calendar. “I have to go. I have a meeting with my commander in five. Bye.”

Syd clicked the silver tab on her comm. piece and removed the tiny black device from her ear. Cupping her hands over her forehead and slouching over the P.D.A.’s screen, she silently wished she could be back on route with her tour schedule. It was foolish she thought that she could return to her other desires like music and modeling without her S.P.D. duties standing in the way again.

“Good Morning, Mars? I hate that show,” Z said walking around the couch with a yellow Jell-O cup in hand. “Their on-air talent is as dry and dusty as their planet’s surface.”

“We’re barely back on Earth for six hours and already Cruger wants to see us in the Command Center,” Syd said scrolling through the appointments to never be completed.

“We’re lucky we got that much time to ourselves. I got to shower and catch a nap with just enough time to enjoy this hearty nutritious lunch here,” Z winked at her B-Squad partner.

“Wait a second. Shouldn’t you be gone now? You have vacation scheduled.”

“I had vacation scheduled. It’s been canned, thanks to Cruger.”

“What? He can’t do that. You’re entitled to it, Z.”

“Not according to S.P.D. Handbook page 233 of chapter eight, section B, line four,” came a familiar, grating voice in Z’s ear.

Sky continued as he entered the rec. room’s kitchen area. “Any cadet with scheduled vacation may have his or her time off revoked until further notice when a level five alert status is in affect.”

“Thanks for sharing information no one asked for, Sky,” Z said keeping her back to the B-Squad captain.

“You’re welcome,” Sky contemptuously answered peeling back the skin of the banana in hand.

B-Squad Power Rangers report to the Commander Center. All B-Squad Power Rangers report to the Command Center immediately, the intercom’s voice called over the speaker.

“Good. Now I’m spared your’s and Sky’s squabbling,” Syd said pocketing her P.D.A. as she hurried out the door.

Sky and Z tossed each other a look from the Pink Ranger’s comment and followed out next. Sky worked on his banana on the way there, purposely allowing a good distance between himself and the Yellow officer. Syd entered the blue-lit control room first, followed by the squabblers. Bridge was already present with Ben standing beside him. The B-Squad stood in straight formation, all with hands neatly placed behind their backs. Around them worked a small crew of analysts, some alien and some human, all hurriedly assessing information concerning the fiasco on Fernovia. It was the most occupants the Command Center has seen in a long while. At the command post, a tall black-leathered chair moved steadily in clockwise rotation, revealing the 7’2 Syrian known as Anubis Doggie Cruger.

“Power Rangers,” the black-cloaked figure spoke with the authoritative tone the alien’s reputation was mantled on. “First and foremost, I must commend you for your tenacious performance on Fernovia. Though the carnage was grave and unfortunate, you managed to terminate all vessels in the enemy’s fleet. The good news is not one fatality was reported amongst us.”

“That’s a relief,” Sydney said relaxing her posture slightly at the news.

“The bad news is our fellow Fernovian officers and cadets are now homeless until extensive repairs can be made to their academy. I’ve conference-called earlier this morning with Supreme Commander Birdie and Commander Sage concerning this issue. It is S.P.D.’s commitment to those who serve the organization to provide immediate assistance if and when disaster strikes. To that end, we are assessing how to temporarily relocate Fernovian employees to our other facilities – Earth being one of them.”

“I can see where this is going,” Ben internally griped.

“Sir, we’re more than willing to assist in the relocation efforts of the Fernovian cadets.” Officer Tate said stepping forward from their formation.

“Good. We must commandeer our cargo ships to aide them in the transport of supplies and personal belongings. We will need volunteers.”

“Here it comes,” Ben anticipated.

“Cadet Worthen,” Doggie began.

“Bingo…”

“I want you to inform your fellow C-Squad cadets to report to Delta Launch by ten o’ clock tomorrow morning. You five will assist Earth-bound Fernovian cadets with the shipping of their items. You are dismissed.”

“Yes, sir,” Ben said shooting off a salute.

The cadet left the control room, leaving the B-Squad with Commander Cruger who waited for the doors to close shut.

“I have something to show you. Please come with me.”

B-Squad exchanged looks with each other and quietly obeyed, filing out the Command Center behind Cruger. Within moments, the five found themselves in a smaller room with controls and lab tables frequently used by Dr. Manx and other personnel for projects. A being seated at the main console turned and stood. The only other remaining Syrian Isinia Cruger bowed her head slightly in acknowledgement of her husband and the B-Squad.

“I have the display module cued, Doggie,” Isinia said coming together with her taller partner.

“Thank you, dear,” Cruger said touching paws with his mate.

Isinia looked past the base commander to B-Squad. “It’s good to see you back, Rangers. I trust all is alright?”

“Considering recent events, we’re doing fine. Thank you,” Sky responded for the team.

Isinia politely smiled and stepped back to let her husband do what he came to do.

“With Kat away at Galaxy Command, she left Boom and lab employees to the finishing details of Project Night S.W.A.T.”

“Night S.W.A.T.?” Bridge cut in, a sense of excitement tingling over his skin.

“Yes. The project was kept under wraps for the last two years until we were certain and familiar with this developing technology. Once it was approved, Galaxy Command was handed the project under the guise of Dr. Jameson Knalk and his team of experts. Around the same time, S.P.D. bought out StarVoxx’s Blue Centurion police unit and began work to reform the program as you are aware,” Doggie said walking across the room to where a wall panel was slowly rotating. “With your squad’s pending tour to tout the Blue Centurion Reform Program to its subscribers, S.P.D. wants to show customers it means business when it comes to the safety of their colonies. Galaxy Command wants Earth station to beta test Night S.W.A.T. technology first, meaning the four of you.”

Bridge’s mouth hung open on cue. Sky, Z and Syd had more sublime reactions to the news not at all visible on their faces.

“So we’re getting new S.W.A.T. gear is what you’re saying?” Z asked expressing a confused disposition.

“Not quite, Officer Delgado. You are getting new powers,” Doggie announced having stepped aside from the now still wall panel.

Identical expressions of awe and amazement spread across the face of B-Squad. Revealed in a single glass case were five black suits, each garb with a Ranger-specific colored light spilling down the mid-section of the armored exterior. The B-Squad stepped in closer for a better look. Short tipped collars bore the S.P.D. emblem on one end and the organizational letters on the other. Directly beneath were the pectoral plates on three of the five suits. The plates were contoured and slightly elevated from the rest of the suit. The other two suits were contoured specifically for the shape of a woman’s breasts. The armored gloves, like the plates, were created in the same likeness and went up to the crux of the elbow. At that crux from the back were three shallow channels guarded by a transparent cover extending from the forearm down to the hand. The channels contained three clear bands connecting vertically in one accord. Intermittently, the triad of bands would fill with a solid Ranger color, indicating its officer assignment. Bridge found the hazy hues particularly fascinating.

“What do those lights do?” the Blue officer asked pressing his finger against the glass casing.

”Those are essential to your new powers,” Cruger said coming to stand beside the officer. “They contain the nerve system so to speak, each band containing microscopic computers to perform various tasks and functions. Mastering these new powers will not take long. They were carefully designed to be intuitive and better capable of enduring hits during battle.”

“Less forced de-morphs I would hope,” Z said, her eyes transfixed on the suit illuminating yellow power from its bands.

“Let us hope so,” Doggie grinned knowing the common gripe was shared by all. “However … there is one stipulation.”

B-Squad looked away from the suit display and refocused their eyes to their commander.

“Sir?” Officer Tate asked on behalf of B-Squad.

In a low growl Doggie sighed, indicating his unease with the stipulation was to share. ““These suits and powers have been given special capabilities unlike anything your current S.W.A.T. armor is capable of. Specifically, you have a special mission at hand for each tour stop.”

“From the order of Supreme Commander Birdie I presume?” Sky asked with an arched eyebrow.

“As a direct and classified order from the entire Universal Delta Council,” Cruger added.

“The U.D.C.? They’re involved?” Bridge asked rubbing the uncertainty spiking up on the back of his neck.

“This must be huge,” Z added, having also expressed her incertitude from hearing Cruger’s news.

“That was my insertion as well, officers. There are a select number of S.P.D.’s clients who the council feels needs to be further – researched.

“You mean spied on?” Sydney asked.

“In looser terms, yes.”

“Oh joy,” Z said looking back to her power-to-be. “So we’re really given these things as a cover up for some espionage gig. What a waste of time.”

“And money,” Syd added, equally unpleased.

“On the contrary, Rangers,” Doggie said raising a paw. “These powers were created with B-Squad in mind. After our victory over the Troobian military, the U.D.C. found your squad worthy of first utilizing these unprecedented powers. This was before the fact of the buyout of the Centurion police service.”

“Still,” Sky interjected, apparently agreeing with Syd and Z, “This seems a little shady for S.P.D. What’s going on, Commander? This isn’t the Space Patrol Delta way to go behind civilians’ backs.”

A disillusioned growl escaped Cruger’s mouth.

“I understand, Rangers, but these are your orders and I cannot change them. You will report to Delta Launch in one week, 7 A.M. sharp. Are we understood?”

The B-Squad officers exchanged reluctant nods before saluting their commander.

“Yes, sir,” they answered.

Unexpectedly to Cruger and B-Squad, the doors of the lab slid open to the sound of robotic barking. In came S.P.D.’s gear-grinding pet R.I.C., the robotic interactive canine. The atamatronic animal pointed his paw to Cruger as Boom came hurrying into the room with his arms full of long-pointed cases.

“Hey, guys! Glad I found you.”

“Here comes the boom,” Syd snickered anticipating his fall over R.I.C. whom he did not see with the items in hand blinding his vision.

Luckily, the gadget engineer stopped short of the mechanical mutt and invited B-Squad to each take one of the black objects in his grasp.

“Wicked sweet! Scabbards!” Bridge said gladly accepting the empty case, being the fact he noticed immediately after. “With no sword?”

“Those are still be prepped by Sophie, but I wanted to find you guys and show you now the rest of your arsenal,” Boom explained handing the last scabbard to Sky.

The squad captain examined the sword case and appeared pleased with its craftsmanship.

“Not that I’m complaining – these are great – but wouldn’t these be a tad intrusive to carry along wherever we go? Bridge asked running a hand over the smooth sold-black exterior.

“On contraire, Blue Ran-jair. These babies effortlessly hook on to the backs of your suits. When needed, just grab and pull. You’ll be able to cut into robot hyney with virtually no delay!”

“Sweetness. We’ll be like the Storm Rangers!”

“In that case we better trade colors, sweetie,” Z said hoping Bridge wouldn’t get the joke right away – which he didn’t.

“I see the U.D.C. forgot one of the most important essentials to human life support,” Sky commented looking back to the suit display.

“Uh… what is that?”

“BREATHING. Where are the helmets, Boom?”

“OH, right. There are no helmets.”

“No helmets?” Bridge asked completely mystified by the idea.

“These suits are way beyond their time, guys,” Boom said coming to stand beside the glass display. “Thanks to Omega Ranger, we were able to further our present day weaponry years ahead of their previous availability – from the future to be exact.”

“So how does it work?” Syd queried.

“It’s complex to explain, but just think of an invisible energy wave consuming your head whole,” Boom said waving his hands randomly about his head, sending an amused look between Syd and Z over the awkward demonstration. “This wave acts like a vent of sorts and takes in oxygen that your thermo suits store for oxygen-free space – like … like space!”

“And we’re first to test these suits? This doesn’t sound reassuring, Commander,” Sky said expressing the collective doubt of his squad.

“I assure you, the preliminary tests from U.D.C. show all items are functional, including the oxygen agitator,” Cruger explained to the officer. “Boom, please escort B-Squad to the training room I reserved in 4B. They must become familiar with the other items in their arsenal.”

“Yes, sir,” Boom saluted the Syrian. “Let’s go guys.”

B-Squad filed out the laboratory behind Boom, with R.I.C. bringing up the rear. Once the door shut, Doggie turned to his wife Isinia already knowing she had his thoughts read.

“I suppose you’re already thinking of someway to intervene with U.D.C.’s mission for your Rangers?” Isinia asked, her voice filled with uneasy feelings that her husband could possibly dawn the Shadow Ranger costume once again.

“Not a plan per say. However, I will keep a close watch on the situation. I only see grave trouble ahead for Space Patrol Delta and I won’t have my Rangers put their necks on the line where it’s not necessary.”

Isinia put her paw on Doggie’s and between them shared the identical look of worry that a war was brewing. With change comes fear, and with fear – chaos. Chaos was coming.

[BLANKS]

Fabulous second chapter my friend. Truely love the heated arguement between Sky and Z. It seems that you are slowly bring back Sky's traits which made him unliked by many in his first appearance. Loved the conversation between Z and Ben. I like his characterization; can't wait to see this character grow more.

Intriged about the new suits. Can't wait to read about the B-Squad in action with their new gear. Since they are getting this new gear, I can safely assumre that the C-Squad will be receiving the old B-Squad Morphers (but hey, you are like me when it comes to surprises ;) ).

Z was in love back in 2025? Hmm... can't wait to see where that may lead.

Glad to see Sky back to being a dick-head. That was the only way I liked Sky in SPD, and you know how much I simply detest Sky. Will be anxiously awaiting the next chapter, and be chatting with you on MSN.

[Nic]

That was an awesome chapter, Eternal.

I loved the updates on the characters. I enjoyed the interpersonal relationships in this chapter. I felt more like I was dealing with the old B-Squad than in the first chapter, which was much more action oriented. With this format, though, you can pull that off and you do it well.

I have a feeling I know who Z's love was back then, after reading this chapter, but I won't say. My suspicions will make the upcoming chapters all the more interesting.

Ben seems cool. It will be interesting to see how he interacts with Bridge & Syd and even Cruger more in the future, I hope. The inclusion of Isinia was cool too. I always thought that Cruger's relationship with his wife would be a great thing to explore (I have plans), especially since the show couldn't really deal with it.

I loved the opening. It had an almost Star Wars feel to it, in your amazing description and the tone of the whole chapter matched it. Kinda darker, grittier SPD.

All in all, it was a great read. :023:

[Lt. Cmdr. Radner]

No helmets, how can they be rangers with out helmits! Anyway good chapter and I look forward to the next update.

[Eternal]

Brandon, thanks. Sky indeed is back to his old ways, but we'll find out why, the reason being something I know AJ is alluding to. It shouldn't be too hard to figure out. Yet again you are on the same wavelength as myself as to who will be receiving the B-Squad powers. Keep yer trap shut! ;--)

AJ, thanks to you as well. I'm glad you're liking the relationships between the characters. I enjoy exploring the uber potential the 38 episode limit and the environment SPD plays on would never allow. You'll be seeing a lot more of Ben for sure by the way. Isinia on the other hand I'm not clear on, but I'm sure we'll see her at some point once more, but as a minor player no doubt. And I did have Star Wars in mind for chapter one's opening. A handful of movies have inspired many things to come, but of course I have my own twists and ideas.

And thank you, Radner. The new Ranger suits are a new breed of costumes, of a new Power. I wanted to move away from the tradition of bright spandex and go with a Batmanified/X-men rubbery suit look. More surprises from these Powers to come.

And thanks to others for the page views. Don't be scurd to leave some f/b and critiques ... or even a FFOTM vote? ;--)

[Angelfox]

cool, new powers and a new look....not sure where your goin with this..but bring it on...

[Eternal]

Thanks for the reply, Angelfox. I mentioned in the chapter that B-Squad will tout the Centurion program and do some detective work on S.P.D.'s newest clients. As for other subplots (which I assume you may actually be referring to instead), the plot-pot is just beginning to boil.

I should start work on ch3 Monday I believe.

[Nic]

Oh, I forgot to mention in my earlier post that I loved the Ninja Storm nod in the last chapter and Z's in-joke that Bridge didn't even get. I got a kick outta that. :023:

It was such a small throwaway kinda thing, but I wanted to mention it, cuz it's things like those that really keep this story grounded in PR and give it a sense of humor, which can be hard to do in more mature stories.

[PHAETON]

Interesting Chapter Eternal, very Nostalgic yet New at the same time. I loved Z and Sky's fight which gives us alot more insight of Sky's role as the new Red Ranger. The Green Ranger Ben I definatly like..more worried about his self image than his new teammates.

The new suits are great, I know you want to try do without the helmets but I fell it sacrifices the Ranger Tradition. You could have the helmet be sleek, Gatchaman-types. But I can't wait to see them in Action

The Thing that really has me hooked into the fic is that your doing a damn good job at keep who the leader of the Machine Empire is. I don't know if it's Sproket, Louie Kaboom, Gasket, Vengix or even Tommy...Ur doing a great job with this Eternal and Keep it comming

[Eternal]

AJ, I appreciate the notice. I agree, it is those little things. The Mars jab, Kat's cap nap, and the NS joke...just a small sample of cheese bits to come.

Phaeton, glad you're enjoying the characters. I know the new suits are anti-tradition, which I fully embrace. It's the evolution of Power Rangers, just like how each season brings something else to the table.

I'm thrilled to really get into the meat of the story. Keep reading.

[Angelfox]

know the new suits are anti-tradition, which I fully embrace. It's the evolution of Power Rangers, just like how each season brings something else to the table


cant wait to see whats up next....bring on bro

[Eternal]

Sorry for the delay, guys. This week has been busier than I anticipated. I'm working on chapter 3 (6 pages in). Hopefully by Wednesday I'll have it done, if not sooner.

[Eternal]

Got it done before Wednesday. Woo hoo. Leave comments.

_______________________



Chapter 3
Far and Deep


What’s paradise in the eyes of one man is an undesirable, unlivable ruin to another. Ruin would hardly be the word to describe his setting for the past ten months he thought; his mind still in a fuzzy haze from his slumber. It was heaven with many trees, rivers, and happy faces. The rush of a great water fall met his ears as his eyes became fully adjusted to the sunlight spilling into the bamboo-built boat cabin. The man sat up, naked head to toe save the white sheet covering his lower half. Moving the dreadlocks out his face, he gazed to his right to the now empty space previously occupied by the most gorgeous woman he’s ever met. He smiled to himself, knowing where she was. The smile was enough to forget his sore arms and chest. Small scratches and a bruise was the result of another day of hard labor without a clean shirt. Nothing a few days can’t heal he thought.

“What time is it?” the dark man asked himself, his eyes turning to the sun-soaked window.

Judging by the temperature and air, noon was rapidly approaching. The man tossed back the white sheet and located the black silk shorts at the foot of the bed. He put them on and made his way to the strings of large tan beads that was the door of the cabin. He passed through as the beads stroked his muscled black skin. There she was with her back turned and body wrapped in the plain beige comforter that earlier covered both their bodies. Her eyes overlooked the many miles of river ahead.

Astonishing his heart whispered. As if she heard the man, the Indian turned to face her admirer with an equally peaceful, subtle smile. Her long black hair, previously tied in an intricate knot, was free and gently blew in the warming breeze. Their eyes met as they drew closer; her big, dark brown eyes to his love and sleep filled eyes of the same color.

“Just another ten minutes and we’ll be home,” she said, her lips neigh to his.

“Sounds like enough time to me,” the black twenty-something said before connecting his lips to hers.

The lock was sweet but temporary as she drew back.

“You’re spoiling me you know, Jack.”

“How can I resist the most beautiful woman in all of India? Nahi, you’re a goddess,” Jack said attempting to reconnect the broken kiss, which she denied again.

“What?” Jack asked hiding his peeve.

Nahi’s eyes searched Jack’s as she sought the words to ease into her confession.

“You know what we’re doing could have me disowned from my family, right? My sister is starting to suspect something as well,” she said, her words causing Jack’s hands to fall away from her hips.

“We’ve had this talk let’s saaaay – ten times now?”

“But we’ve never discussed what comes with you taking my virtue, Jack.”

“Taking? I exactly didn’t have to—“

“Focus here,” Nahi warned. “Once in town, I’m going to see a doctor. I think there’s a possibility I may be … you know.”

Jack knew immediately from her tone and word choice what she referring to. His eyes responded accordingly as they enlarged and looked away to the choppy river off to the side.

“Whoa,” Jack managed to get out, the silence following the one-word response lingering uncomfortably.

“Are you mad?” Nahi asked, her lowered eyes peering up to Jack’s.

“No, don’t be silly,” Jack said looking again at the woman before him. His eyes sobered quickly. “I knew what I was doing and so did you. If it happens, it happens. I’m not going anywhere. I’m not like that.”

“How can I be sure? You’re only here until you choose to move on to the next mission field.”

“I’ve been for a while now. It’s safe to say I’ve made this my field … and my home.”

Jack swallowed his words, hard. He said what he long pondered concerning his living situation, and his mission more over. Leaving New Tech to explore the world brought him to places he only dreamt of as a child. Along his side was then girlfriend Ally Samuels, who at one point he considered marriage with. The relationship dissolved as quickly as it blossomed, giving Jack an important lesson on love and the pitfall of rushing into things. All wasn’t lost in the confusion. An acquaintance became the friend he never wanted and inspired him to take his vision to help the poor worldwide. That same acquaintance watched the melodrama unfold from his perch on the cabin rooftop. Jack took notice of the alien’s presence from the corner of his eye.

“Good morning, Piggy,” Jack greeted his cohort.

The scaled reptilian, whose choice of clothing these days consisted of a pair of red surfer shorts and a bare chest with a pooka-shell necklace, nodded in return as a tire covered in green algae came up on his fish hook.

“Mmm, the delicacies of this putrid planet,” Piggy said gathering the glop into his man-hooves, a portion of the mess dripping down his scaly brown torso. “Don’t mind me, lovebirds. I’m in my own little world here while you have it out.”

“We’re not having it out,” Jack said, annoyed.

“So what you’re saying is … you’re staying? With me here and the children in our village?”

The children Jack sighed internally. He had fallen in love with their sincere, smiling faces. Even in this day and age, poverty still has its hold on rural areas of otherwise prosperous countries like India. Depending on the area, conditions were unlivable. Education was not a given, nor was food, clothing, or shelter. Following a string of natural disasters, a small village like Rafasha could endure anything, as long as there were good people willing to help, good people like former Power Ranger Jack Landors.

The once B-Squad captain also fell in love in the more practical sense of the word. There she was wrapped in a beige comforter, the only thing standing between Jack and her God-sculpted, nude body. There wasn’t an inch Jack hasn’t explored of the tone, brown frame. It was only a week after their initial meeting when they first became intimate. With the hours they spent together with the children during the day and enjoying each other’s company at night, it was only a matter of time the new guy in town became better familiar with his hostess.

Nahi waited for Jack’s response. Nothing came, save the faint chirping of birds off in the distance.

“Fine, Jack.”

An angered Nahi returned to the cabin. Jack, remaining mum, turned his gaze to the river ahead. He leaned against the wooden railing, turning his attention next to the breaking water around the boat as Nahi’s question replayed in his head. India was beautiful, it was pure, untouched, blessed by nature – the complete opposite of his previous place of residence. A mental picture of the smoggy, concrete metropolis called New Tech City formed in Jack’s mind. The contrast between the two worlds was stark. Crowded sidewalks and grid-locked streets sandwiched by towering glass skyscrapers was all Jack knew. There was a whole other world to be discovered and missionary work was the way there. Jack’s own parents were missionaries. He remembers the stories as a kid in his pre-homeless days how his mother and father were employed as mission directors for the local Red Cross chapter in town. The charitable mentality stuck with Jack, even through the days when he needed the help the most.

Having been with S.P.D. equipped Jack to be a more efficient servant of the needy. The icing on the cake was he got to share the experience with someone he deeply cared for. In the end, that relationship did not last. Jack’s love for the mission, however, did. Everyday he would think of her and S.P.D. It’s not easy to get over things one truly cares for, but Jack found himself thinking of S.P.D. more than anything else. What an experience Jack mused in silence. The things he was able to do, the power he wielded when morphed, the places he traveled to – there was nothing like it that gave him the completion he long sought. Even missions did not compare.

“But I made a choice,” Jack whispered, his eyes still entranced in the bubbling white cauldron of the water’s breaking surface.

“What choice would that be?”

Startled, Jack jumped to find Piggy at his side. The reptilian wiped his arm across his mouth from the green goop he earlier snacked on.

“Don’t do that,” Jack warned.

“Why so glum, chum? Trouble in paradise?”

“You can say that.”

“I’ll never understand you humans. At night, you’ll make enough noise to wake the jungle with your mating rituals and then by morning you’ll spat and bicker like a couple of Alzarian goat dogs! Will you two make up your minds?”

Jack shook his head, having to smile at the observation only one outside the species could make.

“Piggy, if you understood the complexity of the human female mind, you’d understand.”

“Oh I know plenty about their kind, and your’s,” Piggy said leaning against the rail with Jack. “I know mankind is privy to abandon heir responsibility if the situation calls for more than they’re willing to give.”

“Then spare me, Piggy. What is it you’re getting at?”

“Simple. That Indian princess you’re shacking up with may be carrying Jack Jr. and you’re not going to hang around.”

“Hold on a second. She may be pregnant, meaning she may not be. Second, what’d I tell you about eavesdropping?”

“It’s only eavesdropping if you get caught?”

“No, Piggy!”

“Cut me some slack, Dreads. We’re traveling at snail’s pace down a river for two days with no source of entertainment but licking the slop off of trash – sub-par slop at best!”

“But what makes you think I’m leaving?”

“The fact that you didn't. Geesh! It’s typical Earth human behavior! Your parents’ abandonment has led you to treat your own relationships the same.”

“Piggy, unless you want to end up bacon for my next breakfast, I suggest you shut up now.”

“What’d I say?!”

“You know nothing about my parents, alright? Drop it.”

“It’s true, isn’t it though? It’s how you view your relationships, with as little commitment as possible. Just enjoy the ride and leave when it’s over, right?”

Jack stayed quiet. Piggy continued.

“You gave up on the orphanage to go it alone on the streets, you joined S.P.D. only to leave only after a year, then you drop Ally in half that time – if half. Now you’re ready to do the same with Pocahontas here.”

“Piggy, I asked you to come on this trip as a companion, not to be my personal shrink.”

“Well tough! I’m bored! All this fresh air and nature can really drive someone mad! But I’ll finish, Mr. Crabby Shorts. Do yourself a favor and stick around if she is with child. If she isn’t, then let’s split and head back to the States. S.P.D. will be waiting for you.”

Jack furrowed his brows. “S.P.D.? What makes you think I’m going back there?”

“Well you have been grumbling about it in your sleep lately.”

“What the hell, Piggy? You’re watching me sleep, too?" Jack asked balling a fist.

“Nahi told me! I swear!” Piggy said raising his hands in defense.

Jack offensive stance digressed; his eyes cast back again to the river.

“I have been thinking about S.P.D,” he admitted, reluctantly.

“And?”

“I don’t know! … I don’t know.”

Piggy reached over and placed his paw on Jack’s shoulder. “Well if things go the way I think they will, you can go back where you belong, back to S.P.D.”

Jack acknowledged Piggy’s words with a subtle nod. The alien left the brooding ex-Ranger to himself to think.


* *

The silent, starry vacuum called space became disrupted as the S.P.D. ship Hive blasted full speed ahead, its course set for the planet Fernovia. In the hull of the honeycombed vessel sat five young cadets, each one whose age was no greater than the one seated center of the cockpit ring. Cadet Benjamin Worthen grimaced mentally knowing how long the flight would be. He glanced to his left, then to his right. His fellow C-Squad cadets bore the identical drab gray uniform he was now wearing. Gone was the green B-Squad officer uniform he greatly boasted of over the past two months. Returning the outfit was not a pleasurable task after learning of B-Squad’s pending departure.

If they did want me as their Green Ranger, they wouldn’t have had me return the uniform. … This is so bogus…

Without C-Squad’s knowing, Hive was being monitored. Light years away, in the depths of a dark, cold control room, a large display panel mantled on the end wall ran a live feed of the fast-moving S.P.D. ship. Smaller monitors encompassed it, these monitors also featuring Hive in its set course to Fernovia. A being seated center watched in silence, his body hidden in the shadows, save for his boots, which the light emitting from the monitors gave obscure visibility to. His cold metallic feet shuffled slightly as another evil thought ran through and lit the triad of crystal crowns pieces atop his head.

The doors behind the seated being slid open, temporarily allowing more light into the dark quarters. The standing being also was concealed by the surrounding darkness, but its outer-shell was distinctly female. The heart-shaped hips, the Jackie O hair-do, the harp-like bow clutched in her thin, steel fingers, and glowing, soulless eyes to match. The narrowed slits watched quietly, expecting a word from her still and patient—

“Husband?” the accented voice called, her voice echoing into the room.

A moment of silence passed before her male counterpart answered.

“Yes, dear?” came his reply of the same accent, English more specifically.

“What is it you are watching?”

“I am watching Space Patrol Delta attempting to repair itself after our grand assault on Fernovia.”

The female figured proceeded and came to her husband’s side. She rested her bow beside the chair and rested the freed hand atop of his.

“Is something troubling you, my love?” the seated one asked.

“Not at all. Our day of reckoning is upon us. I am anything but troubled.”

“Good,” the husband said, pleased. “S.P.D.’s Nebula cadets have arrived on Fernovia and cadets from Earth are headed in that same direction, undoubtedly to join the relief efforts.”

“As expected.”

“Yes,” the male said now standing. “ The chess pieces are going where I calculated them to go and the pawns are in place. Our victory is at hand and S.P.D. will be none the wiser to see it coming!”

A maniacal laughter broke free from his mouth breeched the quiet air, filling the entire room. The wife, too, joined in the insanity-inspired bellowing as she raised up linked hands with her husband and celebrated in what they believed to be the second coming of the Machine Empire.

The husband lowered their coupled hands and looked to his wife.

“This time there will be no more miscalculations. Victory is ours.”


* * *


In major contrast to the brewing evil far away in space, the people of New Tech City carried on as the usual afternoon would predict. The streets were alive with traffic and pedestrians making their way downtown, some homebound. A bustling street corner was alive with hip hop as a group of dancers and a boom box drew a sizable crowd. The five Nike-geared lizard humanoids back flipped in a counter-clock wise dance and then into each other, forming one incredibly-sized lizard in an eye-blink metamorphosis. Zipping by the cheering spectators came four teenagers on skateboards. Leading the pack was a boy in a baggy white shirt and blue jeans, just shy of driving age. His short red curls and freckles singled him out amongst his company, the other three being identical to one another – triplets to be precise.

“You saw that, Ty? That lizard stole your bit!” Sam hollered, his mouth wide with a grin.

“Yeah I know! He doesn’t know how we Triforians do!” came the three-time spoken response from the boys in black.

With a quick leap, each Ty railed atop an empty park bench and touched back down as one whole being. Sam and Ty screeched to a stop in front of the burger joint they became solid patrons of since meeting at the academy. Going inside, they were instantly and warmly greeted by the ethnic staff behind the counter and kitchen line. As ethnic as they come, a gray rodent-like creature waltzed up to the cash register in full Phat Burger attire, his demeanor less than receptive than his peers’.

“Can I help you?” the cashier asked, dully.

“Oh no, Sam. We can’t eat here!” Ty said looking to his friend. “This place has rats!”

The rodent being, name-tagged as Gary, watched apathetically at the boys laughed their heads off. Gaining control of himself, Sam stepped forward to the counter and pointed to the menu board above.

“I’ll take the usual – number two, no onion, extra pickles,” Sam said still enjoying the smile from the routine gag.

“And would you like to upsize that for 39 cents more today?” Gary asked, uninspired.

“Hmm…. I have to think about that,” Sam said turning around. “Ty? Should I upsize?”

“Gosh I don’t know, Sam. Every time we come here you don’t upsize. Maybe you should consider investing the nominal surcharge to enjoy a larger portion of their Phat Fries and Phat Cola.”

“Well if I did that every time, then I’d really be fat!”

Gary, privy to this part of the ordering process, waited quietly for the wasteful exchange to end.

“Being first string on S.P.D.’s new football team and being in the gym five days a week, I really don’t think you’ll suffer if you splurge just this one time,” Ty argued.

“I guess you’re right,” Sam said turning back to Gary. “But then again, I’m a creature of habit. I’ll have to go with a no on the upsize.”

“Fine. Is that all?” Gary asked ready to conclude the first of the two unwanted orders.

“Oh I see you have a new desert on the menu,” Sam said rubbing his chin as if in deep thought. “What do you think of an M&M Double Fudge Milkshake, Ty?”

“Sounds more appetizing than Phat Cola!”

“Sure does!”

Gary’s left eye began to twitch, unusually so. Perhaps the weekly routine was finally wearing on the rat Sam thought.

“That’ll be it, Gary,” he said.

“Yo, Sam! Ain’t that your boy, Sky?”

The red head turned and looked out the window where a man and his robotic canine went jogging by. R.I.C. kept a foot ahead of his master as the two headed down the slopping sidewalk. Sky, decked in the active wear designated for a Red Ranger, pulled on the black leash to tell his companion they had arrived at their destination.

“Stay here, boy,” Sky said taking the leash and tying it around the closest lamppost.

R.I.C. sat as he watched the Red Ranger enter the corner side coffee shop alone. The jingle at the door caught the attention of a young twenty-something female behind the counter, plus some patrons who also recognized the man in the red shirt and black track pants.

Sky scanned the small shop and saw the friendly wave of a brunette in a white collared blouse and black pants. The Ranger made his way to the table and took the opposite seat.

“Alisha, hey. Sorry I’m running behind. I ran to get here,” Sky said apologetically.

The girl shrugged as the aging sun stroked her dark Hawaiian facial features through the adjacent window.

“It’s okay. I’m used to it,” Alisha said offering an assured smile. “But it comes off your time you know.”

“Which is perfectly fine. You’ve been more than gracious to allow me in your schedule.”

“Enough butt kissing, Tate. Let’s get down to business here,” Alisha said producing a file from the briefcase seated at her feet.

Sky watched as the woman, who appeared not much older than himself, looked over the collection of reports pronged inside the manila folder. He recalled from their first meetings how bold she was with her questioning and how it scared him to have to be so brutally honest with a complete stranger. The passing months allowed the Ranger to grow more comfortable with the woman who knew almost nothing about, despite his earlier attempts.

“I have to say, Sky, I like what I’m seeing with your progress,” Alisha said looking up from the folder.

With a half-smile, Sky nodded. “And?”

“And … I feel we should begin another phase to aid in your recovery.”

“What? Why?”

Alisha closed the folder with a stern look. “Because I don’t do quick fixes, Sky. You have issues that could potentially lead me to recommend your dismissal from Space Patrol Delta.”

Sky’s face grew hot at the words. Alisha continued.

“Get mad if you want. I know it’s not what you want to hear. The road to recovery can be treacherous – but it doesn’t have to be if you just stick to the plan I give you.”

Sky leaned in and lowered his voice. “What else is there? It’s been four months and we’ve discussed everything possibly related to my addiction. Hell, I’ve passed two random drug tests. What more is there?”

“Anger, Sky. You have anger issues. And we both know from what,” Alisha shot back, also in hushed tones.

The Red Ranger wanted to laugh at the ridiculousness he found her statement to be. He digressed instead as the waitress from the counter approached the table.

“Can I get you anything, officer?” she asked removing a pen from the pouch of her apron, her smile and eyes solely on Sky.

“No. Thank you.”

“Are you sure? It’s on the house.”

Alisha looked at Sky, then the waitress who was twirling a lock of hair around her finger.

“Actually, he would like what I was having,” she said raising her mug. “Tall double mocha latté, skim milk, skim whip topping.”

The waitress, and her deflated grin, departed from the table. Sky shot Alisha a look.

“What? You declined,” she said setting her mug down. “Let’s focus here. Based on my evaluation, you’re still wounded and need closure fast.”

“Closure? What’s there to get closure over? She broke up with me and I don’t care. She didn’t keep her promise and that makes her a damn liar.”

“Sky, listen to me. She did the right thing. If she didn’t really care for you, she wouldn’t have said anything. But she did.”

Silent in his anger, Sky averted his eyes from Alisha’s. The “psychologist” continued.

“And now that you’re going on an extended trip with her present, not beginning to resolve this issue could be hazardous to your recovery, even a catalyst for a relapse to your—“

“NO. No way. My last sample proved I’m clean.”

“Yes, but that was a month ago today,” Alisha said reaching into her briefcase.

Her hand produced a clear and corked vile. Sky shook his head in disbelief.

“Alisha, please,” he began to protest.

“Do you have something to hide, Sky?” Alisha asked setting the vile on his side of the table. “Go in the bathroom and make.”

“Isn’t there a legal regulation prohibiting this practice outside a licensed medical office?”

“There sure is, but then again I’m not a licensed physician or psychologist. That’s why people like yourself pay me the big bucks for my private services,” Alisha winked.

Sky leaned in and lowered his voice again. “You know I have enough evidence on you to shut your so-called services down, right?”

“Yet you pay for it, as do the other high profile members of this corrupted crap hole of a city we live,” Alisha said leaning in to Sky’s face, her voice also lowered. “I’d rethink your attempt to threaten my business before you leave Earth. I’ve been more than gracious to shade down the reports I hand your commander just so you can keep your badge, in case you’ve forgotten.”

Alisha pushed the vile next to Sky’s hands. “Now be a good boy and make.”

Hesitant, Sky took the vile and headed in the direction of the men’s room. Alisha turned in her seat to make sure he entered. He had.

If she’s not going to care about you and you’re not going to care about you, then who will, Tate?

[Nic]

Oooh, first to comment!

I enjoyed the chapter as a whole, Eternal. Lots more questions than answers, but you're definitely keeping me interested. The darker, more adult tone was very very obvious here. Good stuff.

We finally get the reveal of the Machine Empire leaders. Can't say I'm too surprised, but I'm quite intrigued, because I always liked Gasket & Archerina and of course, it fits continuity quite well, since they were nowhere to be found during the "Zordon wave" in Countdown to Destruction. Another cool nod to the classics with the Triforian kid.

I have to say your characterization for Piggy was awesome. As I read, I could actually hear Piggy saying those things.

Well my suspicions about Z's love seem to be confirmed...seem anyway. ;)

If I have any criticism, it's that it seemed too short.

“What the hell, Piggy? You’re watching me sleep, too? Jack asked balling a fist.You also had some missing quote marks here. If you're like me, you hate that. I think there was another slight error in one other place, but I forgot to make a note of it. It's definitely nothing to worry about, though.

Great read. Can't wait to see the next chapter. :023:

[Eternal]

Thanks for the quick reply, AJ. I got that missing quote taken care of a few minutes after you reviewed, but I was in class and I didn't have time to type this out then.

It's obvious it's Gasket and Archerina from the descriptions, but I've yet to use the names. I'm still waiting on their "scene", or SPD's realization of who the enemy is I should say. Ty (the Triforian) will be seen again. In fact, him, Sam and a few others will have their part in the story, not merely as filler roles. I'm glad you liked Piggy in this. He's one of the best things from SPD I felt no one appreciated. As for Z, it's not hard to figure that situation out, but I think some haven't yet. The details will unfold eventually.

[PHAETON]

Cool Chapter Eternal, The suspense is over as it has been revealled to be none other than Gasket & Archerina who leads the revived Machine empire. I loved The sequence between Jack and Nahi, very sensual and would be an interesting twist to see him struggle between staying with his child and go back to New Tech City....Keep it comming

[BLANKS]

i left you a review on ff.net. Excellent chapter man. Be talking withca' soon on MSN

[Eternal]

Yeah I saw and thanks. I'll be away this weekend again but I'll have my laptop with me. Hopefully it doesn't flub up again...

[Eternal]

Oh snap I'm sorry Phaeton. I did not notice your reply. Thanks for the reply as well. I'm glad you enjoyed the Jack/Nahi scene and that I accomplished what I had hoped to communicate - sensuality.

Been working of chapter 4 in my free time while away, the few 1.5 hrs I get away from conf. Expect the new one some time next week y'all.

[Eternal]

Oy..it's been a week later..but I finished chapter 4 and editing now. Look for it soon.

[Eternal]

Busy times. Started a new position at work and can no longer steal time to write like I used to, but here it is. Thanks for voting last time in FFOTM. I snagged 3rd place. May's poll is already nearing, but I implore you however to vote AJ Oliver, as he re