Chapter Text
Trent was leaving the Cyberspace when he was met by an excited Kira, who had some big news she wanted to share.
Kira happily cried, “Trent! You’re not gonna believe this! You’re going to freak!”
Trent was in a hurry though, “I’m already freaking. We’re out of soy milk and Hayley’s off today. I got to hit the store”
Kira replied, “Oh, wait, I have to tell you something.”
Trent apologized, “Sorry, its going to have to wait.” He was in charge in Hayley’s absence, so he had to be the one to run the errands for the café.
Kira was a bit disappointed by that, but asked, “Okay, have you seen Ethan?”
Trent shook his head, “Not yet”
Kira then asked, “Conner?”
Trent replied, “Not today… later!” and headed on his way.
Kira honestly felt let down, “Great… who I am gonna tell?”
Meanwhile, at the Dino Lab, Hayley was working on her latest project for the rangers. She and Conner were running the Shield of Triumph through a simulation for her upcoming project.
Hayley asked, “All right. You ready, Conner?”
Conner nodded, “Yep. Ready.” He flexed his fingers in anticipation.
Hayley sat at the monitors, “Try the controls.”
Conner went ahead and did as instructed, “Okay”
Hayley began typing in the commands into the main computer, “Initiating simulation”
As the simulation started, a red spark of energy flowed from the controls into Conner’s body.
Conner groaned as the controls shocked him and ended up frying his hair, “Hayley, can we stop, please?”
Hayley gasped as she saw Conner’s disheveled appearance. She quickly typed in the override code, “Shutting down.”
Conner gasped in pain as the system finally shut down and stopped shocking him.
Suddenly Kira’s voice and image appeared on the monitors, “Hey, Conner? Are you there? It’s Kira”
Hayley went ahead and answered, “Hey, Kira. Unfortunately, he’s a little… fried right now. Are you all right?”
Kira replied, “Yeah, I’m fine. I just wanted to tell him that—”
Hayley interrupted, “Can we call you back? We’re working on the control program for the new assault vehicle.”
Kira felt disappointed again, “Oh, yeah, sure. Uh, what about Ethan? Is he around?”
Ethan was nearby, absorbed in his computer, “Can you tell her, unless she’s getting attacked by something green and scaly, send me an email.”
Hayley asked, “Did you hear that?”
Kira sighed, “Yeah, I heard.”
Hayley replied, “And Ethan’s right. Unless it’s an emergency, we should keep the communication frequency clear.”
Kira felt even more let down by her friends, “Okay, I’m sorry. I’ll talk to you guys later.” She then shut off her communications.
Hayley turned towards Ethan and asked, “What are you doing over there that’s so important, anyway?”
Ethan grinned as he continued on his computer, “Searching the web for my soulmate.”
Conner quipped as he managed to catch his breath, “Dude, if you need any help with girls, you just needed to ask.”
Ethan rolled his eyes and retorted, “I’m looking for something a little deeper than you’re used to, bro.” He quirked an eyebrow at Conner’s fried hair, “And, by the way, nice look.”
Conner was surprised as he didn’t realize his normally great hair was all messed up, “What?” He turned to Hayley, “What’s he talking about?”
Hayley lied through her teeth, “You look fine. Now, let’s try that again?”
Conner sighed, as he and Hayley went back to work on the simulation.
Kira headed inside the Cyberspace and sat down at one of the computers. Since Trent, Hayley, Conner and Ethan were all busy, Kira decided to try to see if Coach H was available. Kira had grown close to Kimberly and hoped that at least her favorite coach could talk.
Kira spoke into her bracelet, “Hey, Coach H, are you busy? It’s Kira.”
Kimberly quickly answered, “Kira… hey, I’m currently at the gymnastic competition right now. I can’t really talk right now. The only reason why I was able to answer is because we were on a break, but the competition is about to start up again.”
Kira sighed, “Oh, I’m sorry. I just had some news, but I’ll talk to you and the others about it later.”
Kimberly replied, “Sounds great, Kira. I’ll be back later this afternoon. Oh, I got to run… they’re already calling for the teams to return.”
Kira clicked off her bracelet and looked at the computer in disappointment. She had been so excited and had wanted to share her good news with her friends, but they were all too busy to really listen to her.
Cassidy then walked up, “Eww, somebody looks bummed out today. What’s the matter? You find out you’re not the next Hilary Duff?”
Kira shot back, “You know what? Even you aren’t going to ruin today, Cassidy.”
Cassidy was surprised by Kira, “Why not?”
Kira stood up and revealed, “Well, if I have to tell someone, it might as well be you. I got a call from a really big music manager. He wants to sign me and record one of my songs, do a video, and everything!”
Cassidy didn’t really care about Kira’s news, “If you’re done with the computer, I really need to use it.”
Kira grimaced as even nosey Cassidy didn’t care to listen to her, “Thanks for listening.”
Cassidy replied, “No problem. Now, can you move, cause I have things to do, and it doesn’t involve a wannabe rockstar. Bye-Bye.” She quickly took over the computer… Kira groaned at Cassidy’s rudeness and left the blonde alone.
Hayley and Conner were busy going through the simulation again. Conner was wearing special goggles that helped him see the simulation on the monitors. The simulation was battling the Dino Stegozord.
Hayley cried, “Come on, Conner. Take him down!”
Conner was struggling with the controls, “I’m trying!” He gasped, “No, I’m losing it!”
The simulation ended with an explosion and the main screen saying “Simulation over”
Hayley groaned, “Oops.”
Conner tore off the goggles in frustration, “Great. Game over… again!”
Ethan quipped as he continued typing on his computer, “Welcome to my world, dude.”
Hayley reassured, “At least it’s only a simulation.”
Conner replied, “The hydraulics are doing the opposite of everything I tell them to.”
Ethan asked as he worked on his profile, “Hey, would you guys say that I’m a) a chiseled workout fiend, b) a beefy boytoy, c) a walking toothpick, or d) just your average everyday dude.”
Hayley and Conner both rolled their eyes at Ethan’s question.
Hayley quipped, “I thought you were looking for something a little deeper, Ethan?”
Ethan answered, “Yeah, but to get there, I got to answer these 500 questions.” He massaged his wrist, “And I’m getting a hand cramp.”
Hayley replied, “Here’s a chance to take a break. I need you two to pick up a titanium servo mechanism. I emailed the address to your organizer, Ethan. It’ll be waiting for you.”
Conner asked, “Do you think that’s going to fix the problem?”
Hayley said, “I’m hoping. Let’s just get it home without Mesogog finding out what we’re doing.” The servo mechanism was vital for the new vehicle to work properly and needed to be safely delivered.
Meanwhile, at Mesogog’s fortress, Zeltrax was checking in on Elsa’s spying, “What did you find in Anton Mercer’s computer files—something to help us battle Dr. Oliver and his new Triassic Red Ranger, I hope?”
Elsa revealed, “No, but something… very interesting.” She pulled out the CD carrying the information she had hacked.
Zeltrax asked, “Have you reported it to Lord Mesogog?”
Mesogog then entered, “Reported what?”
Elsa revealed, “The rangers’ brainiac Hayley has ordered a sophisticated servo mechanism from one of your—”
Mesogog growled at that… he hated being referred by his good counterpart. Elsa quickly corrected, “I mean, Mercer’s supply companies.”
Mesogog growled, “Mercer! That idiot! Right under his nose. What are the rangers using it for?”
Elsa admitted, “We’re not sure.”
Mesogog ordered, “Well, don’t take any chances. Send the Tyrannodrones, and make certain those teenagers are unsuccessful in retrieving the component. I’ve had about all the new ranger powers I can stand.”
The evil mastermind waved his hand in dismissal. Elsa and Zetlrax quickly replied, “Yes, my lord.” “As you wish” and made their way to the exit.
Mesogog thought out loud, “What are you up to, Rangers?”
Meanwhile, Kira arrived at Tone Records for her meeting with her soon-to-be music manager/record producer.
She entered a huge office, but couldn’t find anybody, “Hello? Anybody here? Hello?”
She turned and was suddenly met by the manager, “You must be Kira. Welcome to my home. Walk with me.”
Kira was amazed with the place as she followed the manager, “Wait, you live here?”
The manager exclaimed as he led Kira towards his desk, “My ideas do. This is my creative parlor. This is where I make my stars, Kira.” He then led Kira to one of his fancy office chairs, “Stars… like you.”
So far, Kira was interested, “Great. So… what do I do?”
The manager smoothly replied, “Just follow my lead. If you can promise me your loyalty, your trust, I can promise you your dreams. Does that sound fair?”
Kira was a little uncertain, but agreed, “Yeah, I guess it does.”
The manager was pleased, “Great. Then let’s start.” He proceeded to help Kira out of her seat, “On the way to wardrobe, we can talk about Kira Ford-- who she’s going to be, what she is going to represent. This is gonna be great. Come on.”
Kira followed the manager; she was beginning to feel a little unsure of herself. She hadn’t been expecting that the manager would want to change her. But she was willing to give this a chance if it meant possibly getting her music out to a wider audience.
Conner and Ethan had arrived at the Anton Mercer Industries Warehouse. The delivery person had opened the box, revealing the new servo mechanism. Conner verified, “That’s it.”
Conner began closing the box as Ethan signed the paperwork, “Okay.”
Once he finished signing, Ethan handed the clipboard back to the delivery person, “Here you go… thanks.” The delivery person nodded and left the boys alone.
Ethan hopped off the platform and began to help Conner take the box down, “Let’s go.”
They began to head towards Conner’s car, when suddenly a portal opened bringing in a swarm of Tyrannodrones.
The guys gasped as they looked at the box, and quickly set it on the floor. Conner asked, “How’d they know?” as he and Ethan got into defensive stances.
Ethan quipped, “Do these guys ever take a vacation?”
The Tyrannodrones charged forward. Conner and Ethan quickly began to fight the Tyrannodrones as the creatures attempted to steal the box.
Two of the Tyrannodrones managed to get a hold on the box, but the boys quickly pulled the creatures away.
Conner managed to kick one of the Tyrandrones down. He spun his feet around on top of the creature’s back and managed to flip himself up on top of the nearby pallets.
Ethan backflipped over the box. He spun his legs around, managing to knock one of the Tyrannodrones off their feet.
Ethan quickly spotted one grabbing at the box, “No, you don’t!” He quickly pulled the box away. More tyrannodrones swarmed, but Ethan flipped his body using the box to do a handstand and landed a hard kick on one of the creatures, sending it flying into the nearby boxes.
Conner kicked and punched at the Tryannodrones that were surrounding him. He backflipped off the pallets and landed near the box and continued to fight.
Ethan was now fighting by one of the delivery trucks. He kicked one of the minions away and dodged an attack by another. He opened the truck door to block it but was kicked in the back.
Ethan held on as the truck door slammed forward. He quickly dodged another Tyrannodrone. He landed a few punches, but quickly had to open the truck door again to block another attack.
Ethan climbed upwards but ended up landing on his back on top of the truck’s roof. He quickly flipped off the truck.
Ethan rolled onto the ground but managed to pull himself back up. He activated his Tricera skin as one of the creatures struck his arm. He used his super strength and knocked several of the Tyrannodrones backwards.
Conner spotted two of the creatures grabbing the box… he used his super speed and quickly spun and kicked the creatures away from the box. He landed a hard kick on one and grabbed the other. He let go as he kicked the minion away.
The Tyrannodrones landed in a heap by Conner’s car as a portal appeared and took them away.
Conner quipped, “Well, that was fun.”
Ethan replied, “We better get this thing back.” Conner nodded as he and Ethan quickly grabbed the box and headed to the car.
Back at Tone Records, Kira was now in her new wardrobe. The manager asked, “Do you love it?”
Kira was dressed in a black outer-space looking outfit with her hair styled in a crazy mohawk and didn’t really care for the crazy look, “Mm, you want me to be honest?”
The manager replied, “Remember, Kira… trust.”
Kira questioned, “Doesn’t trust work both ways?”
The manager answered, “Not in my world.” He wanted a better look at the outfit, “Spin.”
Kira went ahead and spun around… the manager admired his handywork, “That… is perfect.”
One of his workers arrived and handed him a disc, “Ah, excellent. Thanks.” He then showed the disc to Kira, “Your new sound.”
Kira was surprised, “My new sound?” She hadn’t expected her music to be changed as well.
The manager turned toward his CD player and proudly exclaimed as he put the disc in, “Remixed by Kylee Styles’ producer. And he… is not easy to get.”
Kira groaned, “Oh.” She wondered if this was how Kylee had changed into the spoiled diva she had reunited with not too long ago.
The manager pressed play, and Kira’s song was now a techno-dance pop remix.
Kira was not impressed with the remix, but the manager loved the new version, “Oh, that is magic. That’s pure magic.”
Kira was left in turmoil and needed to talk to people who really knew her, “Would you mind if I went outside and made a call?”
The manager was too absorbed listening to the remix, “Yeah, fine. Just don’t be long. We got work to do.”
Kira shook her head and headed for the exit. She made her way outside but had to adjust her crazy outfit as she used her phone to dial Ethan’s number.
Conner and Ethan were heading down the steps leading into the Dino Lab carrying the heavy box with them.
Conner heard a game-tone ringtone begin to play, “Do you hear that? What is that?”
Ethan struggled as he nodded his head toward his pockets, “That’s my phone.”
Conner was out of breath, but managed to say, “Dude, you got to change that ring” as he and Ethan set the box down.
Ethan asked, “What’s the matter with it?”
Conner gave Ethan a look, “Are you serious?”
Ethan managed to pull out his phone and answered, “Hello?” But no one replied. He tried again, “Hello?”
Ethan just shrugged as Conner replied, “Must’ve hung up.”
Kira then dialed Conner’s number, “Conner… pick up!”
Conner’s phone began playing a jazzy, beeping ringtone as he and Ethan were going down the steps again, “Oh, you got to be kidding me!”
Ethan gave Conner a look about his ringer making Conner quip, “What? It’s better than yours.”
Conner set the box at an angle, while Ethan arched his back to support it as Conner began searching his pockets for his phone.
Ethan groaned as he struggled to support the box, “Oh, hurry up.”
Conner couldn’t find his phone, “Oh, man. Come on… let’s just get this thing inside.”
Ethan agreed, and the boys went back to work delivering the box.
Kira was disappointed she hadn’t reached her friends. She was then approached by three little girls holding autograph books.
One of the girls asked, “Excuse me, are you a singer?”
Kira replied, “Uh, yeah, I am.”
The second little girl asked, “What do you sing?”
Kira answered, “Well, I was supposed to making an album, but I don’t think I’m going to anymore.”
The second little girl questioned, “Why not? I bet you’re great!”
The third little girl exclaimed, “And I love your clothes!”
Kira was surprised by that, “You do?”
All three girls exclaimed, “Yeah!”
The first girl asked, “Can we have your autograph?”
Kria wasn’t expecting that, “You guys want my autograph?”
The three girls nodded, “Yeah!”
Kira agreed, “Well, yeah, I guess.” She went ahead and signed the girls’ autograph books… thinking maybe she should give the new look and sound a chance. She decided to go through with the video shoot the manager had in mind… hoping she was making the right decision for her music career.
Back at Mesgogog’s fortress, Mesogog was not pleased that the rangers were successful in obtaining the servo mechanism, growling at Elsa and Zeltrax, “This is becoming a pattern.”
Elsa replied, accepting her master’s anger, “I take full responsibility, my lord, and will accept any punishment you deem appropriate.” She did give Zeltrax a glare for not speaking up.
Mesogog growled, “Fortunately for you, we have no time for punishment. We must be ready for whatever new power our enemy comes forward with. And judging by their new acquisition, it will be quite sophisticated.”
The evil mastermind had a copy of the servo mechanism’ schematics pulled up on his monitors as Elsa declared, “We will be ready, my lord.”
Conner and Ethan managed to have the servo mechanism opened and set up for Hayley. Tommy and Hayley were at the main computer working, while Ethan was back on his laptop.
Conner asked as he studied the servo mechanism, “Let me get this straight. So, we just have to transfer the computer information from our testing to this, install it, and then we’re ready?”
Hayley was having trouble though, “The only problem is, it’s not accepting the data dump.” Her screen glared Data Transfer Error, “I just don’t understand it.”
Tommy replied, “Keep trying, Hayley.” He got up from his station, and headed towards Hayley to see if he could help.
Ethan asked as he read a potential match from his laptop, “Hey, what do you guys think of this one. She’s single, attractive both inside and out, believes she was Cleopatra in another life and loves to paint portraits of snakes.” He grimaced at that part.
Conner laughed as Tommy said, “That makes sense historically.”
Conner quipped, “Sounds like a perfect match to me.”
Ethan just rolled his eyes and continued his search.
Kimberly then walked in, “Hey, guys. I’m so glad to be finally done with the gymnastic team’s first competition. I see you got the servo mechanism, Hayley. How’s it going?”
Hayley groaned in frustration, to which Kimberly replied, “I take it that you’re having trouble. Do you need me to help?”
Hayley answered, “Unfortunately, I just need a little more time to get this data dump to work. Hopefully I can get this working before Mesogog causes trouble.”
Kimberly reassured, “You’ll get it done, Hayley. I know you will.”
Tommy asked, “So, how did the competition go? Did your team do well?”
Kimberly grinned, “The gymnastic team did great! We placed first… I can’t wait to show Randall the trophy we won.” She then noticed a certain yellow ranger was missing, “Hey, where’s Kira? Have you guys seen her today?”
The boys shook their heads… Kimberly quirked an eyebrow at that, “Huh, I hope she’s okay. She tried calling me earlier, but I was busy with the competition. Hopefully, she checks in soon.”
After a while, the group decided to call it a day…. Hayley did need a break from the computers and decided to head to her café to help Trent close.
Hayley arrived as Trent was cleaning up, “Hey there. We all ready to close?”
Trent replied, “Not quite.” He pointed at Cassidy still sitting at the computers, “Still got one straggler over there.”
Hayley sighed as she headed towards the computer station, “Cass… Cassidy.”
Cassidy groaned as she had been so absorbed in the computer, “What? Can’t you see I’m busy?”
Hayley replied, “Cassidy, we’re closed.”
Cassidy awkwardly said, “Oh, right. Well, I guess I didn’t notice.”
Hayley tried to see what Cassidy was so absorbed in, but Cassidy blocked the monitor.
Hayley scoffed and asked, “What are you working on?”
Cassidy got snippy, “Just because I’m using your computer doesn’t mean I have to tell you.”
Hayley rolled her eyes, “Okay, just don’t be too long.”
Cassidy rudely gestured behind Hayley’s back as the redhead left her alone and quickly went to finish her work on the computer.
The following day, at Mesogog’s fortress, Mesogog asked Zeltrax, “Have you had any thoughts about ways to draw the rangers’ new weapon out?”
Zeltrax replied, “Yes, Lord Mesogog. I have reconstructed the Aerial Assault Craft with some improvements.”
Mesogog liked that idea, “I’m intrigued.”
Zeltrax was eager to please, “I hoped you would be, my lord.”
After Mesogog approved his idea, Zeltrax quickly went to his assault vehicle and headed for Reefside.
The cyborg decreed as he flew the craft, “Your days are numbered, Black Ranger.” He evilly laughed as he continued his journey.
Kira arrived at the Dino Lab and thankfully found the whole team, “Great. You’re all here.”
Ethan asked, “Kira, where have you been?”
Conner agreed, “Yeah, you should check in every once in a while.”
Kira replied, with some annoyance, “I tried—never mind. Look, I need your opinion on something, and I need you all to be honest.” She handed the copy of her music video that the fancy music manager produced to Hayley, “Hayley, can you play this?”
Hayley nodded, “Sure” and proceeded to play the music video.
Everyone was stunned as they watched the video… the music wasn’t Kira’s normal sound, and she looked like a gothic space rockstar. Even the background had weird, strange, outer space holograms splattered all over the place. It left the group puzzled on why Kira’s video went in that strange direction.
Kira asked, “All right… tell me the truth.”
Ethan gulped, “Well, um…”
Hayley was speechless, “It’s—”
Kimberly awkwardly replied, “It’s interesting, but—”
Kira questioned, “What? Is someone going to tell me what they really think?”
Conner spoke up, “I will.”
The group groaned, “Conner!” knowing the red ranger was liable to say something stupid.
Kira said, “No! Let him talk.” She wanted the truth, even if it meant hearing it from Conner’s blunt mouth.
Conner honestly replied, “I just think it’s—it’s not you.”
Kira groaned as she realized Conner was right, “I knew it. What was I thinking?”
The moment was interrupted by the monitors’ alert system.
Ethan sighed in relief, “Never thought I’d be glad to hear that sound.”
An image of Zeltrax’s new Aerial Assault Vehicle launching its Terra Assault Vehicle counterpart appeared on the screens.
Conner quipped, “Either something escaped from the air show, or we’re in trouble.”
Tommy growled, “Zeltrax” as the group watched the Terra Assault Vehicle land.
Tommy quickly took command, “You guys handle it. I’m gonna try to help Hayley get our new weapon powered up.”
Conner agreed, “Okay” and quickly summoned his morpher. The rangers got into their morphing sequence, “Dino Thunder, Power Up!” and quickly got into their ranger suits.
The trio quickly summoned the Dino Zords and formed their main Megazord. As the Megazord landed, the Terra Assault Vehicle struck at the Megazord’s legs.
The Megazord quickly leaped out of the way, only to see the Terra Assault Vehicle rear up.
Conner warned, “Look out!” just as the Terra Assault Vehicle fire a laser beam towards the Megazord.
The rangers groaned as the Megazord was struck… the strike was powerful enough to knock the Megazord to the ground.
The Megazord managed to get back up, only to see the Terra Assault Zord retreating from them.
Kira asked, “Where’s he going?”
Conner agreed, “Good question”
As he watched the scene, Tommy knew the young rangers needed his help, “Keep trying to get the new vehicle up and running. We’re going to need it. Zeltrax isn’t going to give up until one of us is destroyed.”
Before Tommy could leave, Kimberly stopped him, “Tommy, you better be careful. I almost lost you to Trent, and I don’t want you to kill yourself just to stop Zeltrax. I love you, and I want us to be able to have a future.”
Tommy hugged Kimberly, “I love you too… I promise I’ll be careful. But I have to stop Zeltrax… it’s the only way to end his vendetta against me.”
Kimberly sadly nodded, “I know that. Just remember that Zeltrax is no longer the Smitty you knew… just come back to me safe.”
Tommy gently touched Kimberly’s face, “I promise… once Zeltrax is defeated, I’m going to keep trying to find a way to get myself back to normal. I can’t stay stuck in my ranger form for the rest of my life.”
Kimberly gently smiled, “You better go… the kids need you.”
Tommy nodded and headed for the exit. He quickly hopped onto his black Raptor Rider and spoke through his morpher, “Guys, this thing is still in the area. We have to intercept it before it comes into the city.”
Tommy got his raptor moving and urged, “Come on Raptor” as they sped to the outskirts of town.
As they arrived, Tommy’s raptor got spooked by the arrival of the Aerial Assault Vehicle. The raptor reared up, causing Tommy to quickly grip the reins, “Whoa, steady boy.”
Tommy managed to calm down his raptor enough so he could climb down. He saw Zeltrax’s vehicle getting closer, “There he is!”
The kids quickly joined up with Tommy. Conner asked, “What should we do, Dr. O?”
Tommy replied, “You’ll have to fight him the best you can.” He quickly ordered, “Brachio Zord!”
Brachio Zord heard Tommy and growled as it made its way to the scene.
Zeltrax saw Brachio coming as he stood at his controls, “Come on, Dr. Oliver. You can do better than the same, tired Zords. Where’s your new toy?”
The Terra Assault Vehicle then launched itself at Brachio and struck the carrier zord on its sides. The main Dino Zords growled inside as they felt that impact.
Brachio got defensive and fired at the Terra Assault Vehicle. The Terra Assault Vehicle then separated into pieces.
Conner cried, “Whoa! Check that out!” as the Terra Assault Pieces launched into the air.
Tommy groaned, “Oh, man” as the flying Terra Assault pieces fired at them.
Ethan cried, “Look out!” as the beams exploded around them. The rangers groaned from the impact.
Tommy was launched backward from the explosions but managed to roll up onto his feet. He then spotted Zeltrax flying away, “Oh, no, you don’t!”
Tommy ran towards the cliffside and used the momentum to leap up into the air and enter the Aerial Assault Vehicle.
The flying pieces of the Terra Assault Vehicle continued to fire at Brachio, hitting the massive carrier zord and causing Brachio to crash onto its side.
Conner cried, “We got to do something!”
Ethan asked, “Like what?”
Kira replied, “It might be time to go Triassic, Conner.”
The group gasped as the Terra Assault Vehicle reformed itself and landed back on the ground.
Conner quickly agreed, “I think you’re right!” and quickly summoned his shield.
Conner cried, “Triassic Power, engage!” as Ethan and Kira sent their powers to the shield.
Conner quickly transformed into his Triassic ranger form, while Ethan and Kira experienced another painful power-down from giving their powers to the shield.
Ethan and Kira were back in their regular clothes as Conner stepped towards the battle.
Conner cried, “I’m coming up there!” as he launched himself at the Terra Assault Vehicle.
The Terra Assault Vehicle just moved its head and sent Conner flying.
Conner gasped from the impact, “Whoa!” as Ethan and Kira looked in shock.
Thankfully, Conner managed to safely land upright on the ground. He cried, “Okay, new plan!” He pulled out his blaster, “Fire!”
The Terra Assault Vehicle reared up as Conner’s blaster fire hit it. The vehicle then fired at Conner.
Conner groaned as the blast hit the shield. Thankfully, the shield deflected the blast and began to glow.
The rangers were shocked at the glowing shield, especially Conner, “What?”
Conner heard a roar and turned to see their newest zord, the Mezodon, arrive on the scene.
Conner gasped, “Whoa! Hayely did it! Triassic Mega-Rover is online!” as the Mezodon reared up ready to go.
Hayley replied, “And just in time, by the look of things. Do it just like we practiced, Conner.”
Conner cried, “You got it!” as he flew up and entered the cockpit of the Mezodon Mega-Rover.
Conner was amazed by the new zord, “This is sweet!” He then set down the shield over the main controls, “Shield of Triumph… Full Power!”
Conner and the shield took control and the Mezodon sped forward. Ethan and Kira smiled as they watched the powerful new zord.
The new rover sped towards the Terra Assault Vehicle and easily crushed the rocks and gravel beneath it.
The Terra Assault Vehicle charged as well and separated into its flying pieces. The flying pieces fired at the Mezodon Rover, but the rover kept moving amongst the blasts.
Zeltrax cried as he watched, “That’s right. Take it down.” The cyborg gasped as he turned and saw Tommy enter the cockpit.
Tommy quipped as he rose to his feet, “Surprised to see me?”
Zeltrax demanded, “What do you want?”
Tommy answered, “To stop this… once and for all.” He pulled out his Brachio staff and charged forward. The two rivals quickly began to fight, evenly matching each other blow per blow.
The Terra Assault Vehicle reformed and landed back on the ground, with the Mezodon Rover quickly chasing after it.
Conner quipped, “I think I’m getting the hang of this!”
Conner hit the controls, making the wheels glow. The rover’s wheels sped up, with fire trailing behind them, and quickly caught up to the Terra Assault Vehicle.
The Mezodon Rove pulled alongside the Terra Assault Vehicle and then used its powerful wheel spokes to strike the Terra Assault Vehicle’s tires.
The wheels of the Terra Assault Vehicle quickly exploded, and the vehicle exploded as it was overturned.
The Mezodon Rover looked back in triumph as Conner cried, “Outstanding!”
While Conner and his new Mezodon Rover stopped the Terra Assault Vehicle, Tommy and Zeltrax were still battling inside the cockpit of the Aerial Assault Vehicle.
The two rivials were locked in a vicious fight, evenly matching each other’s moves. Both were determined to stop each other.
Zeltrax managed to use his sword and land a hard blow onto Tommy’s stomach. Tommy groaned as his body flipped from the impact and landed hard on the floor.
Zeltrax growled as Tommy laid on the floor. Tommy pleaded, “Smitty, you don’t have to do this.”
Zeltrax growled as Tommy rose to his feet, “I am Zeltrax!” The cyborg no longer saw himself as his former human counterpart.
The cyborg charged and flipped his body sideways to strike Tommy’s feet, sending Tommy spinning and crashing to the ground again.
Conner had de-morphed and rejoined Ethan and Kira, “Where’s Dr. Oliver?”
Kira gave Ethan a look, “You wanna tell him?”
Ethan gave a grave look as he pointed his eyes to the sky.
Conner looked up towards the Aerial Assault Vehicle in shock, “He’s still up there?”
Tommy and Zeltrax were still fighting. The two got locked into a hold, causing Zeltrax to growl, “This is the end of Dr. Tommy Oliver!”
The cyborg viciously swiped at Tommy’s feet, causing Tommy to flip in the air. Zeltrax let go and sent Tommy crashing into the main controls.
Tommy managed to duck just as Zeltrax moved to strike him with his sword. Instead of hitting Tommy, Zeltrax’s sword struck and destroyed the main controls.
The rangers gasped as they saw the explosions coming from the Aerial Assault Vehicle.
Zeltrax groaned as the main console exploded around him. The rangers could see the explosions were getting worse.
Tommy warned, “It’s your last chance to stop this.”
Zeltrax groaned out, “I’ll never stop!”
Tommy grabbed his Brachio Staff and knew what he had to do, “Then I’m sorry, Smitty.”
Zeltrax groaned as Tommy remembered the man the cyborg used to be.
Tommy gripped his staff, “But you leave me no choice.” He then landed a powerful strike onto Zeltrax… Zeltrax groaned from the impact and was engulfed by the explosion.
The explosion spread throughout the Aerial Assault Vehicle and the assault vehicle was quickly destroyed.
The rangers gasped as they saw the Aerial Assault Vehicle explode, “No!” thinking that they lost their mentor.
Kira cried, “No! He can’t be gone!” as Conner and Ethan looked in shock.
Tommy then showed up on the scene, “It’s all right, rangers.” He had managed to escape and was okay, despite that he was gripping his sore shoulder.
The kids quickly turned around and smiled in relief to see that their mentor was still alive.
Tommy replied, “I made it out.”
The rangers quickly ran to meet up with Tommy, “Dr. O!” “You’re okay!”
Ethan asked, “What about Zeltrax?”
Tommy solemnly answered, “Zeltrax is gone.” He bowed his head sadly… he hadn’t wanted to destroy the cyborg, but Zeltrax had left him with no other options.
After the battle, the younger rangers knew that Tommy needed some time to process everything. Kira also knew he needed the support of the person he loved, so she told Kimberly that Tommy was going to need her.
It was getting late, but Tommy was just killing time in the Dino Lab. Ever since he was stuck in his ranger suit, his powers kept him active. The powers kept him alive, but he missed being able to function as his normal self. He couldn’t eat, sleep, or much less be the man he wanted to be.
Kimberly walked in, dressed in her comfy pajamas, “Hey, how are you holding up?”
Tommy turned, but managed a small smile underneath his helmet, “What are you doing up this late, beautiful? Not that I don’t mind seeing you.”
Kimberly sighed, “I couldn’t sleep… Kira told me what happened. That you had to destroy Zeltrax. I just wanted to check on you.”
Tommy sighed as well, “I knew the kids would tell you. Honestly, I don’t know how to feel. I know I had to stop Zeltrax, but—”
Kimberly replied, “But it was hard because Zeltrax used to be Smitty. You two were friends once upon a time.”
Tommy said, “We were… but our friendship fell apart. Smitty was a good guy, but he always felt inferior to me. We took the same classes, same internship under Anton, and our GPA’s were even similar. I never thought I was better than him, but he turned our friendship into a competition. I was young and stubborn… you know I never back down when someone challenges me.”
Kimberly reassured, “It’s not your fault how things changed between you and Smitty. You know, I think Smitty was insecure and just let his jealousy consume him. I also feel his hatred and jealousy of you is what helped Mesogog transform him into Zeltrax.”
Tommy shook his head, “But it didn’t have to be this way. I always treated him with respect, and I never bragged on my successes.”
Kimberly replied, “You’re a good man, Tommy. But no matter what you did, Smitty was always going to resent you. In his eyes, you outshone him in college and even got the coveted job he wanted after college graduation. Wasn’t that the reason why he quit working for Anton and started doing those dangerous experiments at his new lab?”
Tommy sighed, “That doesn’t make me feel any better.”
Kimberly gently hugged Tommy, “I know. But you did what you had to do… Zeltrax was dangerous. He wasn’t going to stop until one of you was destroyed. You know I’m right.”
Tommy nodded, “He said so himself… that he would never stop. If I hadn’t destroyed him, most likely he would have tried to hurt you or the kids. I wouldn’t have been able to live with myself if that happened.”
Kimberly reassured, “It’s okay to be conflicted, Tommy. You can mourn the man that Zeltrax used to be, but you can also be relieved that you stopped his quest for revenge.”
Tommy let out a small chuckle, “Thanks, beautiful… that does make me feel somewhat better. I guess I just needed to hear that from the person I love.”
Kimberly smiled and gave a small kiss to the side of Tommy’s helmet, “Tommy, I love you. I’ll always be there to support you whenever you need me.” She then yawned, “Now why don’t we go upstairs and try to get some sleep?”
Tommy chuckled, “Beautiful, you know I can’t sleep.”
Kimberly took Tommy’s hand to lead him upstairs, “Then you can just hold me while I sleep… I know I’ll sleep better with you by my side.”
As Kimberly slept in his arms, Tommy felt his body relax for the first time since he had been stuck in his ranger suit. He felt at peace holding the woman he loved. Tommy was grateful that he had Kimberly’s love and support… while he still felt conflicted about the whole Zeltrax situation, he was grateful that Kimberly understood and was so supportive. Tommy hoped now that Zeltrax was destroyed he and the rangers could fully concentrate on stopping Mesogog… not knowing that things weren’t going to be that simple.
The following day, the young rangers were heading to the set of Kira’s new video shoot. Kira had decided against releasing the music video and signing up with the record company that wanted to change her. Thanks to Trent and Devin, she was going to film a new music video that represented her true self.
Trent had the camera and was ready to film, “Well, everything is all set. The cameras are all ready, playback’s good, all you have to do is sing.”
Kira was grateful to have her friends’ support, “Thank you guys. From now on, no more letting someone tell me what to be.”
Conner kindly reassured, “Especially since who you are is already pretty cool.” He then noticed Ethan looking around, “Hey, you forget something?”
Ethan excitedly replied, “I’m supposed to meet my cyber hottie today.”
Conner was surprised, “What, here?”
Ehtan answered, “Yeah, I figured you can’t get much better in the first date department than a music video shoot.”
Conner asked, “How are you going to know who she is?”
Ethan replied, “She’s wearing a pink hat and a matching jacket.” He then spotted his date, “Oh, there she is now.” He quickly ran in excitement to meet his date.
Ethan found his date sitting down and asked her, “Excuse me, are you DreamGirl23?”
The girl replied, “Yes, I am.” She got up and turned to face Ethan… revealing herself to be Cassidy!
The two gasped in surprise… they were not expecting to be each other’s date. Ethan turned towards his friends in shock
Trent cried, “I don’t believe it” as Kira’s jaw dropped in shock and Conner’s eyes went wide at the reveal. All three chuckled at Ethan’s unexpected date.
Kira’s friends and fans from school cheered as the music shoot began. As Kira began to sing, Ethan and Cassidy shrugged at each other, and they had a nice time enjoying the video shoot together. Conner smiled and enjoyed the music, while Devin and Trent filmed the video together.
The music video turned out to be a fun concert-style film with a few shots of Kira singing solo. This time the music and look represented who Kira really was as a person and musician.
Looking back, I don’t regret one single day. Memories will keep me close when you walk away.
It’s harder than I could imagine, I guess I should have known that. Close your eyes, I’ll be there. I’ll come running anywhere.
Say goodbye, I’ll be okay. I will wait for you cause true love will never fade. When it’s real, you can feel it.
And I know that you know that I will keep on waiting, faithfully, patiently for you.
The crowd cheered as the music ended. Kira’s video for Patiently was a success, and Kira learned to be true to herself. She didn’t need to change herself to get a record deal, and she hoped one day she would get that record deal on her own terms.