Devil's Night

Part One

He heard it.

The extended tone continued to run, it's steady, shrill ring speaking utter finality.

So much was packed into that tone. Horror. Sorrow. Loss. Death...

A chill stung his heart at the thought that hers would never beat again. That chill spread throughout his body, causing him to leap from his bed.

He panted heavily, fists clenching the corner of his plaid blue sheets. "Mom..."

It always happened without warning. Once in a while, his peaceful slumber would be interrupted by the shrill tone of Rebecca Cranston's heart monitor going dead. The sound would always bring back the agony he suffered at the tender age of nine, when he and his father stood vigil over the dying patient. After days of struggling for her life after the horrific car accident, she simply couldn't fight the inevitable any longer.

He could still feel his father's cold hand gripping his arm as his high school sweetheart passed. He could still feel ice settle in his own heart, freezing it in time with the final beat of his mother's. He could still feel the cold wetness of tears streaking down his pale face.

No... as his fingers grazed his cheek, he realized the tears were fresh.

"Desist," he reprimanded, throwing off the bed sheets, "Such a morbid reverie is counter-productive."

Billy blindly reached for his glasses, which sat beside his digital clock in their usual location. Once the lenses were firmly in place, the vibrant red blur that was the time gave way to legible numbers.

The genius nearly squealed. "I'm tardy!"

He jumped from his bed, bounding across his room to where his custom-assembled laptop stood in wait. After a few keystrokes, an electronic calendar program booted.

He breathed a sigh of relief. "Thankfully I have no pertinent exams or activities scheduled. In fact, considering the special assembly on World Peace to be held this morning, this ought to be an academically-unchallenging day."

He then rose to his feet, and hurried to the bathroom.

* * *

It took precisely fourteen minutes for Billy to finish bathing and dressing. He bounded down the stairs of his family's colonial, and blinked in surprise when he saw James Cranston seated at the kitchen counter, tapping his chin as he perused the large graph sheets spread out before him.

"Dad... you're still here?"

The middle-aged chemical engineer offered his son an absent wave, his green eyes not rising from the diagram. As if he were suddenly struck with lightning, he grabbed a red pencil, and began tracing on the sheet. "My limousine will be arriving in twelve minutes. If I don't finalize this process flow diagram..."

"Limousine?"

"To the airport."

Billy suppressed the urge to blink again. "You're going on a trip?"

"To Singapore," Mr. Cranston elaborated, "to evaluate the proposed job site." His elbow flexed as he drew a long line across the page, bringing his arm in contact with a Styrofoam cup. He didn't even notice the black coffee had spilled until the warm liquid touched the corner of his graph.

An embarrassed grin crossed his face. "It was a wise decision to utilize disposable cups."

His son watched, both angry and perplexed, as James inefficiently mopped up the spill with a handful of napkins. Shaking his head in atypical exasperation, Billy took the sponge from the sink and helped clean up.

"Did you have any intention of informing me of this agenda prior to your departure?" he demanded.

James folded the graphs quickly, oblivious to his son's tone. "I'm certain I mentioned it earlier."

"Not that I recall."

The engineer frowned, skimming through his disorganized memory. "I know I sent you an e-mail with my itinerary."

Billy stared at his father for a long moment, but the senior man paid no attention. Finally, the doorbell interrupted the unnerving quiet.

"I'm off," James noted, snatching his briefcase and hurrying to the door where his suitcase waited. "If you need anything, all my contact information is on the itinerary I sent you."

Billy nodded absently as his father followed the driver to the waiting car.

* * *

"...and she had the nerve to ground me!" Alexis groaned, tiredly stuffing unneeded textbooks into her locker.

Zack grimaced. "That bites, Lex. Zedd's been really rough on us the past week... with those lipstick and purse monsters, then the magnet guy just days later... it's exhausting!"

Kim sighed. "Too bad Zedd couldn't be more accommodating, you know? He keeps making Alexis miss her curfew!"

Zack grinned as an idea struck him. "Hey! Wouldn't be cool if Zedd only attacked during the afternoon. You know, right after school, but before dinner!"

Jason smirked. "Somehow, I doubt Zedd's willing to conform to our schedules."

Alexis watched her teammates' amused expressions. "Guys, this isn't funny. I'm grounded! What if Lord Zedd does attack? And even if he doesn't, my plans for tonight are done. I won't be able to help out with the Trick or Treating preparations!"

Jason frowned. "We've still got to sort candy, schedule chaperons for all the kids, and coordinate Trick or Treating routes. It'll be a lot of work... but the rest of us should be able to handle it."

"But you will be able to chaperon tomorrow, right?" Kimberly urged. "I've posted flyers in the Youth Center, but we really will need all the help we can get."

"My Mom's giving me a 'trial' today. If I'm home by four today, hopefully she'll let me out for Halloween." She sighed deeply "Just how do you guys deal with your parents? I've been a Ranger for less than two weeks, and my mother's on my case!"

"My parents never give me a hard time with curfews," the Trini reported, "I always get my homework and chores done, and since I've been pretty active in the Clean-Up Club and other after school projects, they never found my absence unusual."

Alexis settled an astonished gaze on her. "Oookay... how do the Rangers who aren't candidates for America's Most Perfect Teenagers handle their parents?"

If Trini hadn't been so amused by the Purple Ranger's predicament, she might've been offended.

Tommy shrugged. "My parents know I've got the worst memory in human history, so they've gotten used to me not calling in."

Kim giggled, lacing her arm through her boyfriend's. "That excuse only works for you. Probably won't do Alexis much good."

"One thing that really takes the heat off is that our parents know all of us," Jason contributed. "Maybe if we all make a point of meeting your mom, she'll trust that you're not doing anything illegal when you're hanging out with us."

Zack smiled with inspiration. "I got it! We should make the preparations at Alexis' house! Then we can meet your mom, and get some extra help at the same time!"

Alexis shook her head. "That definitely won't fly. She's way to steamed to let me bring friends over tonight."

"Maybe we can hang out over the weekend?" Kim piped up. "Rent a movie or something?"

Billy leaned against the neighboring locker, absently wiping the lens of his glasses with a cloth. "Rather than allow yourself to grow irate over your mother's attention, you should appreciate that she invests the effort to discipline you. Although it may not seem as such, discipline is one of the foremost acts of concern parents display to their children."

Everyone turned surprised stares to the Blue Ranger. The genius glanced up, noticing the sudden attention of his teammates. He managed a small, self-conscious grin.

Trini settled a comforting hand on his shoulder, offering her support without a word. As she turned her head, she just happened to notice a pair of unfamiliar teens exit Mr. Caplan's office.

Her eyes widened as she recognized one of them. "I don't believe it..."

* * *

"So this is Angel Grove High," Aisha said quietly, stepping out of the main office into the bustling hallway, "It's small."

"Angel Grove is a small town compared to Stone Canyon," Adam contributed, "Look on the bright side- at least we won't get lost on our first day."

Aisha rolled her large brown eyes. "Well, somebody managed to get lost. What the heck could be taking Rocky so long?"

"I think he still has to take Carmen to school. Usually, it's no big deal, but now it's really out of the way. Eventually, he'll need to work out a better schedule."

"Speaking of schedules..." Aisha piped up, pulling a folded sheet from her pocket. "Let's compare. The least the school system can do is try to keep the Stone Canyon transferees together whenever possible."

"So you just transferred?" a new voice asked. Aisha and Adam turned around, and were surprised to see a group of seven teens gathered near them. The one who had spoken, a pretty Asian girl, extended her hand to Aisha.

"Then let me welcome you to Angel Grove High," she continued, "I'm Trini."

Aisha smiled in return, shaking her hand. "My name's Aisha, and this is Adam."

Adam grinned shyly, taking Trini's hand. "Nice to meet you."

"Likewise." She then indicated her friends. "This is Alexis, Jason, Zack, Kim, Tommy, and Billy."

"So, you're from Stone Canyon?" Zack noted, "I did hear something about some students transferring to Angel Grove. Your school got pretty messed up in that monster attack last week, right?"

Aisha huffed. "Tell me about it. An entire wing of the building was totally flattened. The school can only handle about three-quarters the student population, so the Board decided to distribute three-hundred students amongst all neighboring high schools."

"Estimates say it'll take about two years until the school's back in top shape," Adam picked up, "so the transfers are permanent. Everyone moved to a different high school will have to graduate there."

Kim noticed the white cloth that peeked out of Aisha's sweater sleeve. "Uh... was anyone hurt in that battle?"

"Not seriously," Aisha responded. She then rolled up her sleeve, revealing the bandaging that wrapped her entire forearm. "In fact, I think I'm the only one who was hurt." She then grinned fiercely. "But I did get to meet the Yellow Ranger, though. It was totally worth it! Get this, I was in the computer lab-"

As his animated friend dove into the tale of her Ranger encounter, Adam watched his new friends' reaction. He noted with surprise that they all seemed to be fighting back smiles.

What's so funny about Aisha's story? Maybe because seeing those alien monsters is an everyday thing around here...

He blinked curiously as the rest of the group sneaked fleeting glances at Trini.

"Besides," Aisha continued, "it's no biggie. My dad assures me I'll be back in my gi by Monday, though I won't be able to compete anytime soon..."

That tickled Tommy's ear. "You take martial arts?"

Adam smiled widely. "We both do. In fact, before Aisha's injury we were in the running for the Team Ninja Finals with our friend R-"

His thoughts were interrupted by the shrill tone of the bell.

Kim cringed. "Sorry! We made you late to your first class!"

Aisha smirked. "Yeah right... like I wasn't doing all the talking!"

"Maybe you can help us find our classes?" Adam suggested, "That way, we'll be less late."

"Sure," Jason offered, "where're you heading?"

Aisha and Adam consulted their schedules.

"Honors U.S. History, room 112," Aisha answered.

"A.P. Physics, in lab 101," Adam responded.

Billy's face instantly lit up in excitement. "The Advanced Placement Physics program desperately needs able participants. Only five students signed up."

"Well... now there're six."

"We'd be happy to show you the way," Trini offered.

"We've got the same History class," Jason informed Aisha.

The group began to disperse, forming smaller groups to head to class. Kim took a moment to wave to the crowd. "See you all at the assembly!"

* * *

"'And they will have to beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning shears. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, neither will they learn war any more.'"

The Dutch scholar closed the leather-bound volume cradled in his palm, and slid his reading glasses off his aquiline nose. "A quotation from the Biblical book of Isaiah, made famous by the United Nations. A powerful image, is it not? All forms of war will end. Even the tools of war- swords, canons, guns, missiles- will be transformed into farming implements. Made productive, rather than destructive."

He rested the Bible on his podium, and leaned closer to the microphone. "There used to be a statue of a man beating a sword into a plowshare on display in the United Nations building in New York. But I believe... and always have believed... that the emphasis was misguided. For the statue brought focus to the goal... the worldwide peace... instead of the means to get there. A world of peace seems impossible, unless you examine the path that brings us there. And that very path is identified by the prophet: 'neither will they learn war any more.'"

He was silent for a moment, letting the observation sink in. "The key to ending all strife in this world by ending the learning of war. My generation, and those before me, have learned war. We have learned to hate and mistrust others, based solely on their appearance, language, or religion. So many are misguided, because they have been taught that war is the only way to insure peace. But the only peace in their minds is a world without bombs dropping in their backyards. The heart of the matter... the hatred and mistrust... must be addressed. The next generation must learn peace. Must learn to see beyond the superficial, and accept those different from themselves. Your generation, now filled with hope and youthful zeal, must never learn to hate."

The audience was absolutely rapt at the message carried by the gentle European accent. All the students watched him walk away from the podium, and lift a remote control. The lights dimmed, and a slideshow began to play on the large white projection screen.

On the screen were various pictures of youths... just like them. Teenagers of so many different backgrounds it was impossible to count them all. Laughing, eating, talking, debating as equals.

The speaker paused at one screen, which displayed a large stadium. Hundreds of people filled the stands, and the sign hanging above the center stage read "1^st Annual Teen Youth Summit."

"This had been my dream for decades," he continued, "A forum of exchange, designed for youths around the world. A chance for your generation to avoid the pitfalls of hate and scorn by meeting the individuals so often buried under stereotype. After a lifetime of work, last year we held the First Annual Teen Youth Summit in Geneva, Switzerland. Nearly a thousand youths... just like you... attended the year-long program. Think of it as a foreign studies program, only instead of learning one culture, delegates learned dozens. This first year was such an overwhelming success, we've decided to expand the program even further, including as many as five thousand high school age students from every walk of life."

The lights came back on, illuminating the wide, fatherly smile of the speaker. "That is why I am here. Representatives from the First Annual Teen Youth Summit have traveled around the world, promoting this campaign for world peace. As optimistic as I may be, I know it is not within the power of my generation to bring about true, lasting peace. But I do believe it can be achieved... by you. So much can be achieved in your youth, when your mind and heart are open to compromise and understanding. Thank you."

The room erupted into applause as the speaker took a courteous bow, and sat down amongst the row of presenters on stage. Then, Mr. Caplan rose from his seat, clapping as he made his way to the podium.

"Thank you very much, Dr. Kuiperi, for your enlightening, inspiring message of peace. Dr. Kuiperi and his staff will be in Angel Grove for the next two weeks, holding interviews with those of you interested in applying for the Second Teen Youth Summit. Three students from Angel Grove High will be selected, and will subsequently join Dr. Kuiperi in Geneva for a twelve-month program. Now, are there any questions?"

The lights above the audience blazed to life, and the principal scanned the raised hands. "Yes, Trini?"

Trini stood up. "What will the program entail?"

A handheld microphone was passed to Natasha Trotsky, Program Coordinator. "The program will span twelve months, December 1, 1995 to December 1, 1996. Individual students will take four hours of high-school equivalency education daily, administered in small classes that are carefully designed to match the education that delegates will miss due to participation in the program. Also, there will be mock-debates on world issues, presentations by each student describing his or her worldview, and several good-will trips to impoverished, war-torn, or otherwise needy lands, under the direction of the World Health Organization. In addition, each delegate will have the opportunity to take four week-long trips to the capitals of different members of the United Nations."

"Next question?" Mr. Caplan requested, scanning the audience. "Zack?"

"Yeah... what happens after the year's up?"

Natasha handed the microphone to Tamara, delegate from Tel Aviv, Israel. "That is an excellent question. As was determined for the First summit, a select group of participants will be invited to remain in the program, to assist with the coordination of the following year's summit. Also, others have chosen to volunteer several months to localized humanitarian projects, assisting in not-for-profit distribution of medical supplies, food, clothing, and education to needy lands. Still others, such as myself, remain for a few months to travel the world, spreading the lessons learned from the summit to dozens of cities. And, of course, all have the opportunity to return home, and continue their education and careers. Though, those who do remain in the program are also given equivalent education, so they don't fall behind."

"Violet?" Mr. Caplan called.

The shy brunette rose. "How are the three Angel Grove representatives chosen?"

The microphone was returned to Dr. Kuiperi. "The first step involves a written application, which are available in the main office once this assembly ends. The application is similar to one used for college admission or a scholarship, including a few background questions, grade reports, awards earned, activities, and several paragraph-long written answers. Those applications are reviewed on a first-come basis, and fifty will be selected for fifteen-minute interviews, conducted by any one of us. Finally, we convene again and discuss our selection. The selected delegates will be contacted privately, and subsequently released to local media by November 15^th. That leaves candidates two weeks to settle their affairs, and they will come to Geneva sometime before December 1^st, when orientation begins."

"Okay, we have time for one more question," Mr. Caplan revealed, glancing at his watch. "Go ahead, Carlos."

"How often do delegates visit their families?" the freshman soccer star inquired.

Natasha chose to answer. "The program is designed to fully immerse participants in other cultures and ways of thinking. As a consequence, while there is a great deal of travel during the thirteen-month program, schedules will be too full for regular visits home. All participants get two weeks of free time in the spring and late summer, but few decide to go home during this time. More often than not, participants journey to one of Europe's more famous vacation spots."

Carlos nodded, and took his seat.

"That's all the time we have for this afternoon," Mr. Caplan announced, "No dilly-dallying; third period begins in precisely two minutes."

"And I'd like to thank you all for your attention," Dr. Kuiperi stated, "If any of you have further questions, feel free to visit us. We have set up temporary offices in the auxiliary gymnasium, and will operate from there for the next two weeks."

* * *

"That was so incredible," Trini sighed, hands clasped tightly, "Dr. Kuiperi is such a powerful speaker..."

"Funky program," Zack confessed, "It'd be pretty cool to travel the world, try and get a new perspective on things."

"Sure," Kim drawled, nudging the Black Ranger, "and I'll bet it'd look better than 'Hip-Hop Kido' on a college application."

Zack responded with a Cheshire grin. "I'm the man, Kim. I can do both!"

Billy quirked his head. "Can you?" he wondered, "The word 'martial arts' implies war. While it is true one doesn't need to be warlike to participate in most schools of martial arts, the most basic use would be self-defense. That might be problematic to pursue such a course of study in an environment professing absolute and uncompromised pacifism."

As the conversation grew philosophical, a short, elderly man watched the tight-knit group walk passed. A scornful smirk pulled his lip as he walked in the opposite direction, towards the school library.

Silly creatures. Don't they realize it's a moot point? There are far more dangerous forces with which to contend than mere opposing nations.

He stepped into the small library, the scent of paper and leather tickling his adept sense of smell. He looked around curiously, tightly clutching his laptop against his plaid blazer, when the librarian emerged from the stacks.

"Dr. Fin!" she greeted, "So good to see you again."

"Good morning, Barbara," he responded, nodding in greeting.

Barbara approached him, tucking back a lock of red hair that had fallen from her French braid. "I take it you're here for more Halloween research?"

He smiled his unique, insincere smile. "I intend to conclude my research today, so I can begin my analysis when I return home."

"Let's check out the stacks," she decided, beckoning him to the history section. Dr. Fin sat his laptop on one large desk, and followed the taller woman into an aisle.

"So, did you happen to attend the conference?" she inquired, making small talk.

Dr. Fin scoffed. "The world peace thing? It's simply impossible for humans to achieve such a goal."

Barbara's smile fell. "Do you really believe that?"

"Humans are not peaceful creatures," he analyzed, burying his nose in a particularly old volume, "The irony of it all doesn't escape me, either. Did you note that this World Peace affair is being held on Devil's Night? Once the sun sets, the very same youths spouting peace and tranquility will be tormenting neighbors, tossing eggs, and draping toilet paper over their homes. And that is just a precursor to Halloween, when children demand candies and treats, threatening to perform harm if their desires go unsatisfied!"

Barbara couldn't help but stare at the quirky teacher. "Halloween is just for children's fun. A little harmless mischief."

In response, Dr. Fin revealed a toothy, mocking grin. "As you say, my dear." He then closed the volume he was studying, and placed it back on the shelf. "Is there another section on holiday traditions?"

* * *

"Now here's an interesting question... 'What is your definition of peace?' And I have no more than one hundred words to answer."

She took another bite of her veggie pita, wiped her hands of the sloppy dressing, and began jotting notes. "Hmm... do you think it'd be good to include a quote? Dr. King is an obvious choice, so maybe something more obscure?"

When she didn't receive an answer, her dark eyes slid to her companion. "Billy?"

She released a quiet sigh when she noticed Billy hadn't even touched his hamburger. Gently, she touched his shoulder, chasing away his distraction.

"I didn't realize I was such dull company," she quipped.

"I apologize profusely-"

She leaned against her palm. "You only slip into Techno-Babble when you're

upset. Holiday Blues again?"

He bit his lip. "Again, I apologize. Seven years have traversed since the... event, yet I still seem to repeatedly fall into a depression around most holidays."

She squeezed his hand. "Billy, it's nothing to be ashamed of. You lost your mother when you were a kid... that kind of thing stays with you forever."

His free hand reached to his glasses, pulling them off and reducing the world around him into a fuzzy blur. "It's Christmas and Halloween that hurt the most. I remember her taking me Trick or Treating, or thwarting my every attempt to locate my Christmas presents prematurely. Ever since the... the accident... our entire family entity has disintegrated. My father seems to alienate me more and more as the years progress."

He then shook his head, freeing himself from the oft-traveled train of thought upon which he was about to embark. He offered Trini a soft smile. "In any event, your company is hardly dull."

His comment was rewarded with a soft giggle, a sound very few individuals have heard Trini Kwan make. "It's incredible how charming you've become," she realized, shaking her head, "No wonder Laura couldn't resist you."

Billy felt the heat rise on his cheeks. While he'd always felt awkward around girls, she was the only one still able to make him blush. "Your tone seems to suggest you don't fully approve of the change."

Trini blinked in surprise. "I hope I didn't imply that. I'm glad you've come out of your shell." She bit back a small grin. "But, I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss the thick-framed glasses, blue overalls, and complete lack of coordination. Not to mention the incomprehensible Techno-Babble!"

As he watched his dearest friend smile at the memories, something brightened Billy's eyes. "You were the only person who ever understood me, Trini."

He hadn't consciously intended to inflect a deeper meaning to that statement... but something in his tone resonated. Trini glanced at Billy in surprise, and found herself speechless when her friend avoided her gaze.

The pair of friends was saved from the unsettling silence by a rather rude voice, shouting, "Hey Ernie! Are our sandwiches ready yet?"

The pleasant restaurant owner appeared from the kitchen, and threw Bulk a disapproving frown. "There's no need to shout. They're in the back."

Trini and Billy watched as Ernie disappeared into the kitchen, emerging with four large sacks the size of grocery bags.

Billy's eyes widened in astonishment as Bulk and Skull began foraging through the bags, counting heaps of deli sandwiches, bags of potato chips, and boxes of bite-sized cookies. "Phenomenal," he observed, "I had no idea even you were capable of consuming such an enormous lunch."

The young genius hadn't meant to sound insulting, but the larger of the two misfits fixed him with a steady glare. "For your information, this isn't my lunch. This here is lunch and dinner, for a bunch of us. It's gonna be a long night."

Trini smirked wryly. "So I take it you won't be going back to school after lunch period," she noted.

Skull answered with a snort. "This is Devil's Night!" he informed her. "Can't be bothered with schoolwork when there are pranks to plan!"

With that, the leather-clad pair gathered their purchase, and left the Youth Center.

Trini rolled her eyes. "Like those two need a holiday to start trouble."

* * *

Barbara stopped imputing returned books to glance at the only other person of the spacious, silent library. Dr. Fin remained in the seat he had occupied for the entire day, thoroughly examining some eclectic text while entering notes into his laptop.

At least twelve thick books rested in piles on the table, along with numerous photocopies of newspaper articles and other materials strewn around them.

The librarian shook her head in disbelief as the old scholar adjusted his lens to read small print. Just what does he do at this school that he can take an entire day off for research?

Finally, when the final bell of the day rang, Dr. Fin closed his laptop, and readily walked out of the library without a word.

Barbara frowned as she began picking up the books he had used. "'Goodbye, Barbara,'" she grumbled, "'Thank you so very much for your help. Here, let me help you carry these.' Honestly, that man is so...!"

Unable to come up with a word to describe him, she only sighed in defeat.

* * *

Dr. Fin fastidiously adjusted his lapel, keen eye watching the streams of teenagers funnel through the hallway. Tidbits of various conversations wafted passed his ear.

"...you think about that Peace Conference thing?"

"...orange is definitely the in color this season. It's the new black!"

"...gonna tear them apart in the Homecoming game!"

"...got a lot of nerve asking me to the Halloween Ball. As if!"

"...know you were with her when she bought her costume!"

Dr. Fin honed in on that particular voice, which struck a familiar chord with his uncanny hearing. His eyes tracked to a nearby locker, where the voice originated.

He frowned at the dark-skinned boy staring incredulously at a flame-haired classmate.

"No!" she maintained, shaking her head for emphasis. "Angela doesn't want anyone to know what she's wearing. Don't even ask me why."

"C'mon, Lex! I won't tell her you told me!"

A giggle. "Zack, you're not really planning to coordinate, are you?"

Dr. Fin smirked in amusement as he ducked into the nearby men's lavatory. How do such typical teenagers constantly succeed in destroying my monsters?

He then shook off the thought, and bowed his head deeply. In a rush of displaced air, he vanished from the bathroom.

The illusion evaporated along with the teleportation spell, and Finster, renowned Monster-Baker and head alchemist, materialized in his ominous laboratory.

His furry lips stretched into an excited smile as he activated his computer. Quickly, he scrolled through the notes he'd taken in the library.

* * *

"I have been inspired, my Lord."

The Emperor of Evil glanced up from his musings. While he was surprised to see the diminutive scientist standing before his throne, he chose not to display it.

After the disappointing loss of the Scarlet Sentinel, followed by the humiliating defeats of Impursinator, Lipsynchor, and Magnetbrain in rapid succession, his patience had already worn dangerously thin. So he leaned forward in his throne, his posture threatening. "I have yet to see a monster of yours that is worth my attention."

Finster ignored the insult to his Monster-Baking prowess. "This time, I believe I have a model that is perfectly suited to destroy the Rangers."

Rather than wait for Zedd's permission, Finster presented his research. "I've spent several days performing a detailed study of All Hallow's Eve, or 'Halloween', as the Angel Grovites deem it. The rituals coinciding with this dark holiday, and its precursor Devil's Night, are most intriguing. Though mythologies vary, there is evidence of a dark spirit that permeates both days. While most times of the year mischief is frowned upon in Western culture, tonight and tomorrow tricks and deceit run rampant, and humans dressed as goblins and ghouls traverse the streets. These two days are considered days of release, when the 'inner demons,' so to speak, are freely accepted by society."

"There are very few topics that interest me less than human rituals," Zedd grumbled. "This conversation is one of them."

"Tonight is Devil's Night," Finster continued, unimpeded, "Tonight thousands of youths will vandalize their neighbors' houses. Tonight, these youths will embrace their baser desires, tormenting those around them for their own amusement. Tonight, a dark shadow of malice will descend upon Angel Grove. I propose we capture that malice, and use it to meet our own ends."

Finster gazed up at Lord Zedd, a confident smile on his face. The mere fact Zedd hadn't thrown him from his presence meant he was listening.

"Have you determined a method of containing this cruel spirit that possesses the humans?"

"I've already completed my calculations, and have designed a precise method for gathering the malice."

"And what will you do with it?"

"Channel it into some very unique Putty Patrollers. The malice will feed my creations, maximizing their dark strength and viciousness. Then I will unleash them on the Rangers when they are unwary of the danger."

The dark emperor took a few moments to consider Finster's plan. Though he never had much faith in the Utonian alchemy the scientist mastered, there did seem to be some creativity involved in this particular scheme.

Finally, he nodded. "Play your game little, Finster," he decreed magnanimously. "Keep me informed of your progress."

* * *

"So," Bulk shouted over his shoulder, turning down the thundering music vibrating from the Jeep's stereo system, "Whadda we got?"

"The works, Bulky-Boy," one of the back-seat passengers responded. He smirked cruelly, ticking off the items with his fingers. "Thirty cans of whipped cream, Eight dozen eggs, an economy pack of Quilted Northern... double rolls."

"Double rolls!" Skull repeated, a snort of laughter following the exclamation. "You went all out, Spike."

Stone Canyon High's most infamous delinquent steepled his fingers "What can I say? I take my work very seriously."

"Then we're all set to rock!" Bulk shouted, "Jaime, which geek's getting 'papered first?"

Jaime giggled as she leaned between the two front seats, holding up a list. "We gotta hit these houses... Frank, Dylon, Bryant, Anderson, Masters, Hart-"

"Hey," Skull interrupted. Suddenly, his mirthful grin collapsed. "How many times do I have to tell ya... we don't hit Kim! She's not a geek!"

Jaime released a very unladylike snort. "She's such a goody-goody Miss Perfect, she makes me hurl! That should put 'er on the top of the list!"

The moment Jaime finished her argument, the jeep came to a screeching halt. Jaime yelped as she fell forward, practically into Bulk's lap.

Skull glowered at each of his companions in turn, his fingers clutching the steering wheel. "If you want to hit Kim's house, then find another driver."

Bulk huffed at his best friend's thunderous expression. "Relax, Skull." he sneered. "Jaime, cross Hart off the list."

Jaime opened her mouth to protest, only to be silenced by Bulk's dark blue stare. "How many names are on that list, Jaim?"

"Thirty-two."

"So think about it... we can't 'visit' thirty-two houses in one night! Do I look like Santa Claus to you?"

Spike bit back a laugh at the irony of Bulk's question. "Yeah, let's prioritize. Pick a Top Ten to make sure we get 'em all."

Bulk's face then split into a Cheshire grin. "Definitely put that geek Billy at the top. He's forgotten to respect his betters."

Skull seemed appeased, his frown smoothing as he turned the car back into the street. The group began to cackle as the small Jeep tore into the night.

* * *

When Zack stepped into the spacious colonial, his eyes quickly scanned the den in which his friends were collected. "Hey Kim... have you seen Alexis?"

The Pink Ranger looked up from her task sorting candy, and shook her head. "Sorry, Zack, but she's not coming. She didn't want to take the chance of missing curfew, so she went directly home after school."

Zack huffed his frustration, earning Jason's attention. "What's eating you, Man?"

Kim gave a knowing grin. "Someone is trying to figure out what Angela's wearing for the masquerade," she chirped.

Zack's peeved frown won laughter from the entire group.

Trini shook her head. "How did you find out last year? You matched her Egyptian princess outfit with a Pharaoh costume."

The Black Ranger fell into the couch, leaning his head on the armrest. "Dumb luck. I overheard her describing her outfit to some friends of hers."

Kim rolled her eyes theatrically. "You could always ask her. I thought you two were on better terms... especially after that kiss."

"She's giving me mixed signals," Zack confessed. "I can't really tell what she thinks of me. One day she's nice, then she gets all weird... like I insulted her or something. I hope if I surprise her with a matching costume, she'd get a kick out of it."

"And Alexis won't tell you?" Jason wondered, surprised.

Zack pouted tragically. "I think she's enjoying torturing me."

The teens erupted into immediate laughter at Zack's antics, the light exchange helping to ease the Black Ranger's gloom. Soon, the team separated into various work stations, Trini, Billy, and Jason charting routes for Trick or Treat groups, while Zack settled down to help Kimberly complete the inventory of candy and decorations that needed to be transferred to the Youth Center the following afternoon. The groups continued working, chatting amiably, until the door swung open again.

Tommy grinned at his friends, holding up a paper bag. "Dinner's here!"

Zack rubbed his palms in anticipation. "Lemme at it!"

Kim rose to her feet, and peeked into the bag. "Just a minute, Zack. These subs needs to be cut and served." She nodded her head to the kitchen. "Lend a hand?"

"Sure," the White Ranger volunteered.

Billy glanced up from his laptop. "I'll show you where the plates and silverware are."

As the trio disappeared into the kitchen, Zack eagerly planted himself on the floor beside the coffee table. With a grin, Jason sat beside him.

Since the group had apparently taken a break from their Trick or Treating plans, Trini turned her attention to her notebook, flipping to her latest project.

Jason glanced at her thoughtful face. "What are you working on, Trini?"

"The essay," she told him, chewing on her pen. "It's actually quite challenging, defining 'peace.'"

Zack shook his head, an amused grin on his face. "Leave it to Trini... she's already writing the essay, and I barely read through the application!"

Jason turned to the Black Ranger in surprise. "You're applying for the Youth Summit?"

Zack's eyebrow quirked. "Wow... don't have a heart-attack over it!"

"Sorry. But it just didn't strike me as something you'd be interested in." He then glanced to Trini. "I know you've always been involved in projects to save the environment and stuff, but Zack...?"

The Black Ranger rolled his eyes. "Yes... even I can get serious once in a while." His face then grew pensive. "Besides, it really does look like a great opportunity. After I became a Ranger, I've become more aware of the planet as a whole. I look at it as one united entity: we protect the Earth, not the U.S., not just Angel Grove... wherever Zedd strikes, we strike back."

His fingers ran through his short braids. "Only... Earth's not like that. We're not one big, happy family. And when we do manage to finally end the alien invasion, Earth still won't be safe. It'll still be torn apart... and that's dangerous."

He finally looked up, meeting the startled eyes of both his friends. "I'd like the chance to expand my worldview, and maybe even influence others with all that I've learned from being the Black Ranger. I think Dr. Kuiperi is really on to something."

Jason leaned back into the sofa behind him, slowly absorbing the surprising insight from his easy-going friend. He felt Trini's inquisitive gaze even before she spoke.

"Have you thought about it, Jase?"

After a moment of hesitation, he nodded. "The program does sound incredible... but I can't just up and leave Angel Grove! I mean... let's just say I get picked. Then the team is out a Red Ranger. You both remember how we struggled when the Green Ranger was at half power, right? The team really needs to be complete. Zedd's only getting more determined to beat us. What's the point in winning world peace if aliens blow the planet out from under us?"

His arms folded. "Some conflicts can't be resolved diplomatically. Even if international peace can be achieved through dialogue, that won't get us anywhere with Lord Zedd."

The trio was silent for an extended moment, as each individually perused the very valid points Zack had raised promoting the conference, and Jason raised denying it. Then, Trini decided to speak.

"We should discuss it with Zordon," she proposed. "I mean, surely there is a way for one to leave the Power Rangers without weakening the team. There were Rangers before us... dozens of them. If any one of us is chosen, we can select a replacement."

"Easier said than done," Zack noted, "It's a big responsibility... how'd we find someone we can trust with-"

Their discussion was rudely interrupted by a loud crash, drawing their startled attention to the window.

They watched, perplexed, as a gooey substance streaked down the glass pane. It was shortly followed by an onslaught of more projectiles, splattering against the window in rapid succession.

The noise urged Billy, Kim, and Tommy to hurry into the den.

"Eggs?" Kim murmured, aghast. "Ew!"

Billy shook his head, mildly embarrassed. "Devil's Night," he murmured, "This sort of vandalism occurs annually."

Jason's face darkened as he rose to his feet. "It won't happen again," he determined.

* * *

The Rangers were treated to a cacophony of painfully shrill laughter as they stepped onto the Cranston porch, arms crossed and faces tight. Once the trespassing quartet realized they were caught, they immediately stopped pelting the house with dairy and paper products, and congregated on the front lawn.

Jason's dark eyes passed from one masked vandal to another. When he spoke, his tone carried no patience whatsoever. "Bulk, that's enough."

The largest member of the band snorted disdainfully. "What makes you think I'm Bulk?"

"You're kidding, right?" Kim countered, "Like we need fingerprints to recognize you?"

The sardonic retort brought amused grins to the other Rangers, and outright laughter from Jaime and Spike. Skull chose not to react, but it took Bulk a few moments to realize he'd been direly insulted. "You callin' me fat, Shrimp?"

The petite gymnast frowned, hands on her hips. But before another sharp word could be exchanged, a faint mist gathered in the air, suddenly fogging the clear night with supernatural speed.

"What's going on?" Tommy wondered, suddenly alarmed.

"Fog can't possibly gather so quickly," Billy contributed.

The Rangers huddled close together, for fear any of their member would be lost in the thick gloom. After a few tense moments, the blanket passed, leaving the Rangers blinking in astonishment.

"Guys!" Zack suddenly shouted, eyes wide, "Look!"

The Rangers turned to where their comrade pointed. They gasped aloud as they stared at the punks' prone bodies.

As one, the six heroes ran to the fallen teens.

"They're still breathing," Trini assessed, "But... they're out cold."

Kim knelt beside Skull, pulling the black ski mask from his face. She drew her hand back from his disturbingly cold, pale cheek.

"What do we do?" she murmured, horrified.

"Bring them in for analysis," Tommy decided, his face grim. "Nothing on Earth could've done this. Zedd must be up to something."

"We needn't bring them all in," Billy contributed, "It will only crowd the Command Center, and increase the risk of any one of them waking to a sight they shouldn't see."

"Then take Skull," Kim decided, standing up. "He's the most harmless of this bunch."

Jason nodded his agreement, and then turned his gaze down the street. His eyes narrowed at the cloud that continued its path through Angel Grove. "Billy, call the police and tell them exactly what happened. Something tells me these four aren't the only victims of that weird fog."

The Blue Ranger nodded.

"After you give your report, join the rest of us in the Command Center."

* * *

She felt her eyes drooping heavily, her mind only half registering the word problem. With a frustrated grumble, she cupped her forehead in her palms.

Granted, it would be much easier if she weren't in such a sour mood. After nearly two weeks of service as the Purple Ranger, she discovered one of her favorite perks was doing her homework with the rest of the gang. Jokes and the occasional flying snack food helped lighten the mood, and Billy was always eager to help reinforce concepts she'd fallen asleep on in class... even though he didn't even take Statistics.

She pushed her book away, folding her arms tightly.

"Problem, Alexis?"

The Purple Ranger slid her eyes to her mother, who settled on the seat across from her. She met the sharp green gaze with a quirked eyebrow.

"I don't appreciate your glaring at me like that," she commented wryly.

Alexis deflated, releasing her tense anger in a long, loud breath.

"Stop showing up after midnight without an explanation, and you won't have to endure the utter boredom of spending the evening with me."

"I told you, I was doing schoolwork!" Alexis protested. "Call Billy... he'll vouch for me!"

Amanda smirked at her daughter. "Do I have 'Born Yesterday' stamped on my forehead? Lex, I did attend high school. Yes, it may have been a century ago, but I remember it well. And even though I was a dedicated student, I never spent so many nights on group projects."

She then stood up. "I'll start the pasta. Maybe, if you get a few minutes, you can make the salad? Wouldn't kill you."

Alexis watched her mother move to the stove, filling the pot with water. With another annoyed sigh, she pulled the Statistics textbook towards her...

...when a six tone signal erupted from her wristwatch.

Startled, Alexis covered her communicator to muffle the last few notes.

Amanda frowned, looking around the kitchen curiously. "What was that?"

Alexis hesitated, formulating as decent an excuse as she could. "My... my watch alarm."

"Really? And what reason would you possibly have for setting your watch for.." she glanced at the wall clock, "7:08pm?"

"Billy's very precise," she answered, carefully keeping her exasperation from her voice. "He said he'd be back from the chem lab at 7:08pm. Some kind of scientist thing."

"And what would Billy's schedule have to do with someone grounded for the evening?" Amanda wondered, pointedly.

Surprisingly, the lie rolled off her tongue easily. "I left my statistics calculator in my locker, and I need it for these problems. Billy's the only person I know who has one. I really need to run to his place and pick it up."

Her mother's lilting glare spoke volumes.

"I'm serious!" Alexis maintained. "I'll just go to his house, get the calculator, and come right back! I'll be home in half an hour, tops." She clasped her hands under her chin. "Pleeeaaase...? You wouldn't let me get a zero on this homework assignment, would you?"

Mrs. Darling stared at her daughter, inexplicably amused by her theatrical begging. Finally, she relented.

"Fine," she decided, consulting her watch again. "I expect you back here no later than 7:39pm. I can be just as precise as your genius friend."

Alexis grinned, taking a moment to plant a harried kiss on her mother's cheek before racing out the door and down the street.

* * *

"Okay, Rangers, I have precisely... twenty-eight minutes before I turn into a pumpkin," Alexis announced, just as soon as the purple aura of her arrival faded. "What's the 411?"

Jason nodded a brief greeting before gesturing to the cot.

"Skull?" she marveled, "In the Command Center? Whoa... did I step through an inter-dimensional gateway or something?"

"There's a strange mist passing through Angel Grove," Zack explained. "We saw Skull and his buddies disappear into the mist. When it faded, everyone was unconscious."

"Not everyone," Tommy corrected, his tone thoughtful, "We were also swallowed by that mist, and nothing happened to us. The fog seems to be targeting specific people."

"You guys should hear some of this," Trini commented, removing an earpiece and shaking her head in amazement. "So far, I've picked up dozens of messages on the police band. At least thirty victims have been reported... all teenagers and young adults."

Kim jerked her thumb to the Viewing Globe, which followed the cloud's movements. "This is too weird..."

Folding her arms, the Pink Ranger returned to the prone victim. "Alpha, did you figure out what's wrong with him?"

The small robot shook his oblong head. "Skull seems to have been completely drained of all energy. He's comatose... but there is no physical injury whatsoever that would induce it. It doesn't make sense."

Jason looked up at Zordon. "Is it possible Zedd has come up with a way to drain the life out of people?"

"I WOULD NOT BE SURPRISED IF LORD ZEDD HAD SUCH A CAPABILITY," the Rangers' mentor decided. "HOWEVER, I AM MOST CONCERNED ABOUT THE CHOICE OF VICTIMS. NOTICE THAT NO ADULTS HAVE BEEN ATTACKED, NOR HAS THE MYSTERIOUS MIST PASSED INTO ANY RESIDENCES."

At that moment, a streak of blue illuminated the Command Center. Billy materialized before his friends, his face grim.

"Billy, what's wrong?" Trini wondered.

"I spoke to the police, and gave my report. I also informed them that the victims were visiting my house with mischievous intent. I was shocked to discover that several similar cases have been reported, and all the victims were also armed with vandalistic equipment."

Zack whistled. "The plot thickens."

Alexis' gaze remained transfixed on her watch, her tension rising. "Look guys... I think I'm gonna call it a night. If I'm late tonight, I'll have one heck of a time trying to convince my mom to let me out tomorrow... or ever again."

"We'll contact you if anything major develops," Tommy said. "If not, we'll give you an update at school."

The Purple Ranger nodded, waved to her teammates, and promptly vanished.

* * *

The sun slowly crept over the horizon, painting the sky red, orange, pink... and finally blue.

With the last wisps of darkness came the last wisps of a magical cloud, slowly funneling into an unassuming cave buried deep within the mountains against the coast.

Finster watched, smiling with triumph, as the dark mist seeped into a large boulder, nearly his own height. Now I have the malice. The mischief. The darkness that conquers human souls once a year is mine to mold as I wish...

By the time the disc of the sun had fully emerged, the last traces of evil were captured by the magical boulder.

Finster gave a nod to the shadows.

With another nod of acknowledgement, an opposing figure emerged from the darkness and lifted the large rock with ease.

The blue snout split into a feral grin. "I can feel the evil in this stone."

"You sense the concentrated cruelty of a handful of humans," Finster explained. "It can only be properly collected on Devil's Night, when a dark shroud already covers the land. Holidays pollute the air with the intensified spirits of the people. Christmas creates a spirit of joy and giving that makes me utterly ill. But this holiday is perfect... drawing out the darkness within upstanding citizens. Perhaps, with time, I will be able to collect the dark spirits of humans around the globe..." His short fingers hovered against the smooth surface of the stone, sending an excited shiver through the scientist. "..but this will suffice for the time being."