Devil's Night

Part Two

The young woman slowly pivoted, scrutinizing her reflection in the full-length mirror. It was a ritual she performed nearly every day, yet this time she took exceptional care. After all, she did have to keep in mind the hundreds of total strangers that would be staring at her in the hallways of Angel Grove High.

Attention never bothered her. In fact, she thrived on it. She was far from nervous... but it couldn't hurt to make sure she was flawless.

The yellow spandex cradled her entire body snugly, but not uncomfortably so. The white boots were actually quite comfortable, reaching a few inches below her knees and decorated with vibrant yellow diamond-shaped material. The gloves fit her well, though spending an entire day at school with thick elbow-length gloves didn't really appeal to her. The gloves, and the bold yellow helmet, would spend the majority of the day in her book bag: yellow to match her ensemble.

The thick white collar of the uniform was just slightly itchy, so to avoid further discomfort, she styled her thick hair in a neat French braid. Then, a touch of makeup, including an eye-catching red lipstick, completed the look.

Full lips parted into her unique killer smile. "Time to go!"

She arranged the rest of the essentials on her frilly bed, and fit them all in her bag. Once finished, she stepped out of her room, and joined her family in the kitchen.

Dr. Campbell's eyebrow quirked. "What is that?"

Aisha smiled sweetly, kissing her father's cheek as she sailed passed him. "My costume," she responded, grabbing a banana from the counter.

"Isn't it a little... tight?"

Aisha glanced down at herself. "Well, I wanted to wear that black leather bustier... the one with the spikes?... only it's too cold outside."

The surgeon's chin slowly dropped.

"Ben, she's joking," Belinda informed him, descending the stairs in her bathrobe. Her careful eye appraised her daughter's costume. "It looks fantastic!" she decided, "Customers are in for a surprise tonight when they see the Yellow Ranger working the register."

Aisha suddenly bit down on her lip, a sheepish grin forming. Belinda noticed the telltale signs, and frowned.

"Aisha..."

"Mom, it's already Halloween! There can't possibly be that many last minute shoppers."

"The local high schools won't have their Halloween dances until Friday," Mrs. Campbell reminded her daughter.

"I know... but there's an event after school. A Trick or Treating group will be taking out elementary school students, and I'd really like to go." She turned on the wide-eyed, pleading stare full force. "It's a great way for me and the guys to get to know some Angel Grove students, and make some new friends. Please?"

Aisha knew she was almost irresistible in her 'begging' mode. She could see her mother's frown soften, and silently cheered her imminent triumph.

"How late will you be out?" Ben asked.

"The groups meet at four. Since the kids are pretty young, I'm sure we'll be done not long after sunset." She turned back to her mother. "I'm sure I can help close the store."

"All right," her mother conceded. She watched in amusement as Aisha's smile lit up the room.

"But, we want you to be careful," Ben stressed. "Angel Grove is a dangerous place. I don't want you to get involved in anything over your head... again."

Aisha followed her father's pointed gaze down to her arm. The bulge of bandaging was barely visible through the form-fitting costume. "In fact," he continued, "I don't like the idea of you parading around town as a Power Ranger. What if one of those creatures mistakes you for a Ranger?"

"Then... how 'bout I skip the helmet?" Aisha compromised. "There's no way anyone will take me for a Ranger then." She then smiled innocently. "Is this the face of a superhero?"

Ben chuckled indulgently, his anxiety slowly easing. "Well... okay."

With another quick kiss to both parents, Aisha hurried out the front door.

* * *

"Hey, Tommy!"

The White Ranger turned from his locker, a smile forming on his face. "Hi, Kim. What's up?"

She absorbed his wan smile and dull eyes in a heartbeat. "Are you okay?"

"I'm just worried," he confessed, his voice low, "I mean, what is Zedd up to? Why would he target some harmless teenagers?"

Kim leaned closer, keeping their conversation private. "Did you see the news report this morning?"

He nodded, his face grim. "A total of sixty-two cases. All teens out for the night. Most confirmed to be equipped for Devil's Night. All still comatose."

Kim reached for his hand. "Zedd is never subtle. Soon he'll send out his new monster, we'll kick its butt, and it'll all be over."

The White Ranger did his best to smile bravely for her, but she could tell something was still bothering him... something other than the emperor's latest scheme. "Tommy," she coaxed, "what else is on your mind?"

"You must be some kind of mind-reader," he quipped, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. He could never hide anything from her. "I've been thinking about that Peace Conference."

He turned to her, a thought suddenly occurring to him. "You haven't been thinking about the Peace Conference... have you?"

She hastily shook her head. "Not considering the conference; no. There's too much I love here in Angel Grove to leave."

She caught his faint sigh of relief, and smiled up at him. "You?"

"Not a chance. Don't get me wrong; it's a terrific idea. It's just not for me. It's been years since I really felt at home... like I really belonged somewhere. I'm not giving that up now."

"Then what are you thinking about?"

Tommy chewed his lip, his grip on her hand tightening. "Jason, Zack, and Trini have all decided to apply."

Surprise widened Kim's doe eyes. "What? Why didn't anyone say anything?"

"Jason called me this morning. With everything that's been going on the past twenty-four hours, we never discussed the conference as a team. But Jason thought that, since I'm the leader of the team, I should know what's going on. Trini and Zack really want to be involved. Jason... he's not quite sure about it, but he's willing to apply and see what happens."

He sighed again, dropping Kim's hand and closing his locker. "What if they're chosen, Kim? What will we do?"

For once, Kimberly had no reassuring words to offer him.

"Hey, Kim!"

For a moment, Kimberly was struck speechless. She blinked several times, as if doing so would induce a measure of sanity to the bizarre sight before her.

She stared into the opaque visor of the Yellow Ranger, immediately wondering why Trini was Morphed, why she would approach in public instead of using the communicator, and when the heck did she get so short??

She heard a definitely un-Trini laugh issue from the plastic helmet. She watched wide-eyed as the helmet opened, revealing a jubilant smile on a new acquaintance's face.

"Aisha?" she breathed, shaking off her stupor.

"Admit it," the 'Yellow Ranger' demanded, winking playfully, "I totally had you there."

"Wow..." Tommy murmured, staring openly at the transfer student, "where'd you get that costume?"

"Special order, care of Masquerade in the Plaza," she advertised, tucking her helmet in the crook of her arm. "Me and the guys decided to wear our costumes to school. You know... some last minute promotion of my mom's store."

Aisha then turned, waving into the crowded hall. Groups of students seemed to part, staring blankly and making way for two other anomalies: a cowboy and a knight.

Kim smothered a grin. "Adam... is that you?"

He grinned bashfully, tipping his ten-gallon hat.

"And this is our friend Rocky," Aisha introduced, "He was late yesterday, so you didn't get a chance to meet him."

Kim extended her hand. "Nice to meet you," she greeted, "I'm Kimberly, and this is Tommy."

"The pleasure's mine," he answered sunnily, shaking both their hands. "Rocky DeSantos: card-carrying class clown and certified babe magnet, at your service."

Kim and Tommy traded amused, and puzzled, glances.

Adam shook his head. "Don't mind him... he had two Jolts with his Frosted Flakes this morning."

Rocky defended himself with a shrug. "Hey, it's the perfect fuel for Halloween!"

"Speaking of which," Aisha interjected, pulling out a paper flyer, "These were posted all over the Youth Center. If you have room for more volunteers, we'd love to take some kids Trick or Treating."

A smile lit up Kimberly's face. "Terrific! There's always room for more!"

"You'll also get a chance to meet a lot of local teenagers and kids," Tommy added.

Kim linked her arm through Aisha's, her excitement almost palpable. "I can't wait for tonight! This'll be so much fun!"

* * *

Goldar watched through weary eyes as Finster continued the laborious effort of grinding the rock. Slowly the alchemist dragged the gold-flecked chunk of stone against a rough board, letting the dust particles slide into the tray beneath it. Once the fist-sized stone was reduced to powder, Finster scuttled back to the rest of the rock, still over a foot in width and breadth. Chisel in hand, he carefully broke the remainder in half, and began grinding anew.

The Titan warrior couldn't suppress a loud yawn.

Finster frowned at the interruption. "I have no further need of you. You're dismissed."

Goldar scowled at the condescending tone. "Lord Zedd has bidden me to keep my eye on you," he snarled, "That's what I will do."

Finster shrugged his indifference, and returned to his grinding.

Goldar adjusted his position, pushing off the wall to shake off his fatigue. "Why don't I just blast this cursed rock into dust? This is taking forever!"

"Any energy exerted into the dust will contaminate my clay," Finster responded. "I refuse to take a shortcut that will diminish the quality of my creations."

The Titan scoffed. "What difference does it make?" he hissed. "You're wasting this oh-so-precious mud on a pack of Putties! The Rangers will obliterate them in minutes."

Finster's eyes narrowed. "This mold isn't a mere Putty. These will be Misfits... an entirely new breed of clay warrior. They are far more durable, and creative, than the drone model."

The massive blue brow quirked with poorly-hidden interest. "'Creative'?"

"This stone has been imbued with the malice of scores of humans," Finster pointed out, "The cruelty is reflected in the individual's malicious intent. When I absorbed the malice, I absorbed a part of their consciousness. Only the darker part. That is why the humans have not yet woken. So long as a part of them is trapped within my Misfits, they cannot regain full consciousness."

He lifted the tray, sifting through the fine powder. "Misfits can think, improvise, devise, and deceive. And now, bathed in the dark spirit of Halloween, they will wreak havoc on Angel Grove and its heroes."

He then replaced the tray, and continued grinding. "I am quite eager to see how this experiment turns out."

* * *

Kimberly rushed around the Youth Center, her excitement lending her the energy to keep track of all the volunteers that had arrived, the children that had signed up, the candies that had been set up for an appetizer, and even the clock. As she moved, the bells hanging from her jester costume jingled, letting everyone know where the main organizer of the event was at all times.

She was reading over a list of children, making notes in the margin, when a hand tapped her shoulder. "Don't laugh."

Kim turned, and her absent smile perked. "Lex, you look great!"

Alexis pursed her lips, hiding her grin at the encouragement her friend offered. The soft lavender dress swept to about mid-thigh... any shorter and the Purple Ranger wouldn't have even considered it... and left her arms bare. Her legs were warmed by faintly shimmering sheer stockings, and white wings adorned her back.

Kim's attention trailed to the hem of the dress, a sudden gleam in her eye. "Are you trying to make Jason's eyes fall out of their sockets?"

The comment earned a sputtering, red-faced denial that triggered a giggle from the Pink Ranger. "Lex, I'm only teasing."

Alexis' composure slowly recovered, though she continued to eye her friend warily. "Kim, I don't know what Tommy said to you-"

Kimberly interrupted with a wave of her hand. "Tommy didn't say a word. Hasn't anyone told you yet? No one can hide anything from me!"

Alexis stared at her petite friend, who hummed as she refilled the bowl of candy corn. Eager to steer the conversation away from any sensitive subjects, she asked "So, where's everyone else?"

"Billy and Jason are in the Command Center," Kim reported, her voice soft, "Billy wanted to see if there's been any change with last night's victims, and Jason needed to discuss something with Zordon." She then struggled to open a jar of Twizzlers. "Zack's playing games with some of the kids, and Trini... she's got an interview with Dr. Kuiperi."

The newest Ranger blinked in surprise. "The Peace Conference thing?"

"She, Zack, and Jason applied." Kim bit her lower lip in agitation. "I don't know, Lex... it feels so weird thinking they might get picked, you know? Billy, Jason and Trini have been my friends since second grade, and when Zack moved from D.C. in fourth, he joined our little group easily. We grew up together."

She released a soft sigh. "I'm not looking forward to that announcement. I just might lose three of the best friends I could ever hope for."

Alexis stared at Kimberly, her own mind running through the ramifications like quicksilver. What would it mean for the Rangers? For the entire Earth? Would they take their Power Coins with them... or could they be given to others?

What would the team... what would Angel Grove be like without Jason, and his dependable strength and confidence?

She shook herself, banishing the disquieting thought. "There'll be dozens... no, hundreds of applicants," she decided. "Chances are none of our friends will be picked."

Rather than actually considering those chances, she picked up a clipboard. "Lemme start matching up volunteers," she offered. "That way we can start letting groups out."

Kim agreed. "Make sure to assign volunteers by pairs. After what happened last night, we'd better take some precautions."

"You got it," Alexis stated with a mock-salute. She then walked toward the gym area of the Youth Center, where a large group of kids and teens were congregated.

"Watch closely, boys and girls," Zack sang, pulling off his top hat with a flourish, "as I accomplish the most amazing feat you will ever see!"

He tipped his hat, revealing its lack of contents to everyone watching. Then, he sat the hat, top down, onto a blanketed table. Theatrically clutching his cape, he waved his plastic wand over the hat's rim.

"Abracadabra! Bibbity, Boppity, Boo! Ala-kazaam! Voila!"

The audience snickered and giggled at his antics, watching with rapt attention as his free hand dove into the hat. With no further ado, he lifted his hand, carrying something white and fuzzy.

One young girl's smile fell. "It's not a real bunny!" she accused, "It's fake!"

His lips parting into his trademark smile, Zack descended from his "stage." "There's no fooling you, Trish," he admitted, "It's stuffed. You see, last time I did this trick, I used a real bunny. He got scared by all the noise, and ran away. We couldn't find him for hours."

He winked. "When we did find him, he left Ernie a 'present' in the kitchen. Ernie decided not to welcome pets anymore."

The teens and older kids laughed at the tale, and though Trish didn't quite follow, she laughed along with them. Zack gently tugged the young girl's ponytail, and set the stuffed bunny on her lap.

Alexis laughed with the others, separating herself from the spectators to finish taking count. Without warning, a warm hand enclosed hers. "So, we meet again."

The Purple Ranger froze, staring at the young man in open astonishment.

The knight... the knight... grinned rakishly as he kissed her hand. His laughing eyes locked with hers, igniting a very similar peevish frustration he stirred in her the first time they met.

"Sorry," he demurred, though his gaze was anything but apologetic. "I seem to keep scaring you, Alexis."

"I wasn't scared," she defended, snatching her hand away.

He winked, casually waiting for her to simmer down. After a lengthy silence, she glanced at him again. "I see you traded in the full armor for something lighter."

He tapped the chain mail vest. "Yeah... the full suit looked great on display, but walking in it is a whole other story. I decided to tone it down for Trick or Treating, but I'm still every inch the dashing knight I was before!"

She chose not to comment. "What're you doing here? Do you go to this school?"

"I do now... I was transferred from Stone Canyon with some friends of mine." His grin widened. "And what luck! My second day here and I already find a familiar face!"

She smirked.

"So, are you assigning the chaperones?"

"Yeah... two per group of eight kids. I think that should keep the numbers pretty reasonable."

"Good," he agreed, peeking over her shoulder at the list. "So, how 'bout matching 'Darling' with 'DeSantos'?"

Her eyebrow quirked. "Gee, I wonder who 'Rocky DeSantos' could be..."

"Well, he sure sounds like a great guy to get to know! Besides, I hear he's from Stone Canyon... he probably doesn't know much about Angel Grove. He definitely needs to be matched with a local student."

Alexis elected to continue the light-hearted banter. "Too bad 'Alexis' has only lived in Angel Grove for a couple of months, and is terrible with directions."

He answered with an amused grin. "Good thing 'Rocky' can read a map in his sleep."

"Is that so?"

"Absolutely. A skill perfectly honed after years of Zelda games. You just can't rescue the princess if you can't navigate the world map."

Alexis couldn't resist a giggle. "Riiight," she murmured, making the appropriate checks on the list to fulfill his request. "I just hope 'Alexis' can handle watching nine kids all by herself."

* * *

Meanwhile, as all the other children and teens kept themselves occupied with conversations and candy, a group of six small kids strolled unobtrusively into the Youth Center. Unlike all the other children present, they did not arrive with a parent, nor did they ask any questions. Instead, after one curt nod from the White Ranger, they separated into groups of two, slipping seamless into the huddles of smaller humans... listening intently, but saying nothing.

* * *

When Tommy Oliver stepped into the Youth Center, absently knotting a handkerchief over his loose hair, he was treated to an amusing sight. Kimberly was standing on the table, calling out names and ushering groups of children into proper order. With a bemused grin, he watched her work.

"Adam and Zack!" she called. The young cowboy and magician stepped forward. "You take Group One out, and focus on these blocks," she advised, handing them a map. "It's less than a quarter mile from here, to the east. You'll be there in minutes."

She then waved them away. With a wide grin, Zack waved his farewell, and he and his new acquaintance made their way to their eight charges.

Zack's grin widened even further when he noticed two of the costumes. "Hey... the Yellow and Black Rangers!" he awed, kneeling beside the short children. "Terrific! You guys can watch over us while we roam the spooky streets of Angel Grove!"

The two children made no response.

He then lightly elbowed the Black Ranger. "You know... you're my almost-girlfriend's favorite hero."

Again, no response.

Zack just shrugged, rising to his feet again. "Okay, troops... let's mosey!"

As Group One departed from the Youth Center, Kim arranged the next group. "Alexis and Rocky, you guys take Group Two out to Somerset Avenue." She handed Alexis the map. "You know where that is, right Lex? By the Burger King."

The angel nodded. "We'll find our way. See you tonight, Kim!"

Kim waved at her friends, watching them lead the second group of kids, including the Red and Blue Rangers, out into the neighborhood.

* * *

"Did you find anything useful, Billy?"

The young genius shook his head, causing the white wig of his 'mad scientist' costume to sway gently. "Nothing," he answered, "All the cases I've scanned remotely haven't changed. Though I would like to take a closer scan... just in case there's something I've missed."

"THAT IS A WISE PLAN," Zordon conceded. "WE NEEDED TO RELINQUISH CARE OF YOUR FRIEND 'SKULL' TO AVOID SUSPICION OF HIS DISAPPEARANCE, YET WITHOUT CLOSER CONTACT WE ARE UNLIKELY TO IDENTIFY A TREATMENT."

"But how will Billy be able to examine the students?" Alpha wondered.

"I see no harm in visiting the hospital as the Blue Ranger," Billy proposed. "The condition of these victims is inexplicable to medical science. I'm sure the doctors will be willing to let a Power Ranger conduct a few scans."

Zordon nodded his agreement. "VERY WELL, BILLY. MORPH AND TELEPORT TO THE HOSPITAL."

Billy nodded, pulling his Morpher from underneath his cotton labcoat. "Triceratops!"

In a bright display of vibrant energy, sleek blue armor replaced the loose costume. With a brief nod to his friend and former leader, the Blue Ranger vanished.

Jason watched the afterimage fade, his mind rapidly spinning the right words together to broach a significant topic with his mentor.

"Zordon," he uttered, turning toward the near-fatherly figure, "there's a Youth Summit that's going on in Switzerland. Each year delegates from around the world are chosen to participate. The objective is to learn about other cultures, and create the kind of mutual understanding that could pave the way for global peace."

"That sounds like a great idea!" Alpha chirped. "It's such a shame people can't get along on this planet. Very few planets I'm familiar with have the kind of internal strife I've seen on Earth."

"IT IS A WORTHY CAUSE, AND A POTENTIAL STEP TOWARD THE PEACE THIS PLANET NEEDS TO CONTINUE ALONG THE PATH TO MATURITY," Zordon commented. "COOPERATION OF RESOURCES WILL OPEN UP MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR HUMANITY TO EXPLORE THE GALAXY, AND INTERACT WITH THOSE OF OTHER PLANETS."

Jason nodded his agreement. "Zack and Trini think this conference is the best thing since sliced bread." His hand found his forehead, and began rubbing a faint throbbing sensation. "And I'll admit, I'm interested, too."

He fell silent, suddenly unable to keep his gaze on Zordon. Instead, he glanced at the Viewing Globe. "I've put a lot of thought into it, and I believe there's a lot we can learn from this conference. It's a terrific opportunity to get to know this planet as a whole, and understand the different pieces that make the mosaic of human kind. And... there's a lot we can offer the others, too. Our time as Rangers has changed us, Zordon. We've learned so much from you... from our mission... that we understand just how critical world peace is."

He took a deep breath. "The three of us want to be a part of this. So... we all applied. But, we won't go without your permission."

A silence fell upon the Command Center, causing Jason's discomfort to grow exponentially with each passing moment.

Thankfully, Zordon's answer was not long in coming. "YOU, TRINI, AND ZACK HAVE MY PERMISSION. AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, MY BLESSING."

Jason knew, deep down, that Zordon wouldn't refuse this request unless it was patently necessary that the three remain on active duty. Yet he couldn't hide his surprise at the ease with which Zordon dismissed half his team.

And... as absurd as it sounded... Jason felt a pang at the ease with which Zordon dismissed him. If Dr. Kuiperi had presented the Peace Conference two weeks ago, as leader of the Power Rangers, Jason would never have abandoned his team, no matter how attractive the opportunity.

How easily things change...

"Are you sure, Zordon? What about the team?"

Zordon smiled. "WHEN I SELECTED YOU ALL TO BECOME RANGERS, I SPECIFICALLY CHOSE TEENAGERS BECAUSE OF THE VIRTUAL LACK OF RESPONSIBILITY. YET I NEVER INTENDED THAT YOU WOULD ALL REMAIN RANGERS INDEFINITELY. A LIFETIME OF SERVICE IS A SACRIFICE TOO GREAT TO EXPECT OF YOU, ESPECIALLY AS THE THREAT AGAINST THE EARTH IS NOT AS SEVERE AS IN CENTURIES PASSED. THE POWER COINS YOU POSSESS CAN BE TRANSFERRED TO OTHER INDIVIDUALS WHO, LIKE YOURSELVES, ARE TRUSTWORTHY, COURAGEOUS, AND DEDICATED TO THIS PLANET AND ALL WHO DWELL HERE."

Jason blinked. "It's that easy?"

"PERHAPS THE PROCESS IS SIMPLE, BUT IT IS NOT EASY," Zordon corrected. "WITH TIME THE POWER CONFORMS TO THE ONE WHO INVOKES IT, MEANING A RITUAL MUST BE PERFORMED TO SEPARATE THE POWER FROM YOU AND PASS IT ALONG TO ANOTHER. ALSO, WITH THE POWER LOSS WILL COME A PERIOD OF ADJUSTMENT, AS YOUR BODIES RETURN TO THEIR NORMAL STATE BEFORE THE POWER INFUSED YOU WITH ITS ENERGY. AND FINALLY, WE MUST FIND THREE WORTHY OF THE POWER. THAT IN ITSELF IS A CONSIDERABLE TASK."

The Red Ranger frowned. "There's no hurry, Zordon. We probably won't even get picked. I just thought I should mention it, so you can be prepared in case the impossible happens."

Alpha chuckled. "The humans organizing this conference would be crazy not to pick you three. You're special... and that shines through everything you say or do."

Jason stared at the small robot, profoundly flattered by the offhand comment.

Zordon observed Jason's reaction, surprised that the accomplished Ranger could ever think differently. "JASON, YOU HAVE MADE ME UNSPEAKABLY PROUD."

Jason turned his wide gaze from Alpha back to Zordon.

"YOU HAVE RECOGNIZED A NEW MISSION... ONE JUST AS CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF MANKIND AS THE ONE YOU CURRENTLY SERVE. YOU HAVE ALSO RECOGNIZED THAT THE SKILLS AND PERSPECTIVE YOU'VE GAINED AS THE RED RANGER MAY BENEFIT THE PEACE CONFERENCE, AND INFLUENCE OTHER DELEGATES. THIS IS A DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY THAT YOU MUST PURSUE. AND IF YOU ARE CHOSEN, UPON YOUR RETURN YOU ARE WELCOME TO REJOIN THE POWER TEAM, AND LET YOUR NEW KNOWLEDGE AND MATURITY ENLIGHTEN US ALL."

Jason couldn't find his voice to express his gratitude.

* * *

Zack slowed his pace, allowing several children to pass him in their enthusiastic pursuit of candy. He soon found himself in step with his distracted partner, who carefully observed every corner on the quiet residential street, and on occasion stared suspiciously at the darkening sky.

"Is your Spider Sense tingling?"

The joke drew Adam's attention, urging a grin. "Big time."

Zack grew marginally concerned. "Did you see something?"

"No, I didn't." Adam shrugged, self-consciously breaking eye contact. "But this town puts me on edge. With all the monster sightings you hear about, plus all those teenagers that were attacked last night, you have to admit it's dangerous out here."

"You'll get used to it," Zack assured him, "Hey, I've lived in Angel Grove ever since the aliens started attacking. Sooner or later you realize, you just can't let some extraterrestrial whackos dictate your life. Angel Grove always rebounds after an attack, and the people just keep on living."

"I respect that," Adam conceded, "and I'm not afraid; not for myself, at least. But, we are responsible for eight kids tonight. We have to make sure they get home just fine."

Zack stared at Adam as if a sudden transformation had taken place. Earlier, he thought he had the new kid pegged: a shy guy who'd rather remain invisible than let himself be noticed. Yet, the protective gleam in his eye spoke volumes. Adam Park was much more than a wallflower.

The Black Ranger was duly impressed, and found himself reflecting back on their first meeting. "You take martial arts, right?" he prompted.

A smile lit Adam's face at the topic. "All my life. My style of preference has been Tae Kwon Do, but I've picked up bits and pieces of other styles. Actually, the first time I attended a karate class, I met Rocky and Aisha." His smile turned wry. "Things were a little competitive between Aisha and me at first, but Rocky's influence definitely mellowed us out. It didn't take us long to become friends."

Adam glanced at Zack, noting his keen interest. "You and your friends study martial arts, right?"

Zack nodded proudly. "I've picked up some moves along the way, and kinda cobbled together my own groove. Trini's been studying different forms of Kung Fu for as long as I've known her. Kim, Billy, and Alexis have all been taking pointers from Jason and Tommy for self-defense. Those two are really serious artists; they even hold weekly karate classes for some of the local kids. One of these days you should check out a class at the Youth Center. Jason and Tommy are always interested in a challenge."

"I think I'll take you up on that. Rocky, Aisha, and I were in the running for next week's Team Ninja competition-"

Zack's eyes widened. "Wow, you three must be really good!"

Adam grinned. "We can hold our own... but now that Aisha's hurt, we need a third team member to be eligible. Rocky and I were planning to bow out, but Aisha wouldn't hear of it. When Rocky brought it up, she grabbed both of us by the earlobes and demanded that we 'forget any crazy ideas about quitting.'"

Unbidden, a small grin pulled Zack's lip. "She sure sounds like a sparkplug!"

Adam released a short laugh. "That's one way of putting it..."

The pair paused their amiable conversation as the group assembled before the first door of their assigned territory. Zack watched as six of the kids chatted excitedly, boasting about all the candy they would collect, and just how quickly they'd be able to consume it all. Only, two children remained absurdly silent, standing a few feet away from the rest.

"Hey, Power Rangers!" he called, jogging toward them, "This house is all yours."

He settled one hand on each Ranger's shoulder, and guided them towards the door. They offered a small measure of resistance, but finally walked the rest of the way to the doorstep of their own volition.

Zack lingered a few yards behind them, watching as the Black Ranger rang the doorbell.

After a lengthy silence, the Black Ranger pressed the button again.

Obviously frustrated, he began knocking... hard.

"It's okay," Zack assured him, "There's probably no one home. You can try the next house... there're lights on inside."

The two Rangers shared a glance. Then, the Yellow Ranger glanced over her shoulder. "No."

The deep voice of the small child struck an odd chord with Zack Taylor. His muscles tensed warily, and his eyes widened. There was something cruel in the tone... something very different from childish petulance.

"C'mon guys," Zack persisted, wincing as the Black Ranger angrily held the button down, forcing the chime to repeat. "There are plenty of other houses..."

"I want this one," Black hissed. Then, he thrust his foot through the heavy wood door.

The children shrieked in surprise as Black reduced the ornate door into splinters. Zack took a step back, his mind racing as he scanned the area for some corner or shadow in which he could Morph.

Zack continued to slowly inch away from the children, casually making room. "What are you?"

In response, the Black and Yellow Rangers stood side by side. Each one extended his arms, and slowly, their small, slight bodies began to transform. Limbs lengthened and clothing darkened, and finally two completely different beings stood on the porch.

"Why can't anything ever be easy?" he murmured.

"So, you said you've only been in Angel Grove for a few months," Rocky prompted, falling into step beside Alexis. "Where're you from?"

"Philadelphia."

He grinned. "The City of Brotherly Love, huh?"

"That's what they say, though I prefer to describe it as the City of Cheesesteaks and Cream Cheese."

She smiled, keeping a casual pace behind the children. Their animated smiles and eager chatter was particularly spirited, creating an air of overall enjoyment that was irresistible.

She turned to her partner. "Have you ever been to Philly?"

"I've been as far east as Mexico City," he related.

"The one in Mexico?"

He smirked. "Yes, the one in Mexico. Lived the first three years of my life there, before my father was offered a promotion in Stone Canyon."

She nodded with interest. "What does your father do?"

Alexis watched with surprise as, for the first time in their acquaintance, Rocky's smile... faded a bit. "He was a construction superintendent for a company that did a lot of civil buildings. Best in the business."

Alexis observed his face, intrigued by the play of emotions. His eyes hinted at a great loss, yet by his tone of voice, and soft smile, he also carried an enduring love and open pride in his heart.

After seeing his carefree smile and mischievous smirk constantly since she met him, his more pensive, reserved grin hinted at much greater depth than she thought him capable. Yet it was a grin, nonetheless; Alexis found herself wondering if Rocky DeSantos even knew how to frown.

Suddenly feeling awkward, Alexis cleared her throat. "So, you want to take the first bunch to the door?"

Rocky's characteristic smile returned as he turned his attention to the children. "Who's ready for candy?" he called.

The overwhelming response made Alexis giggle as she watched the group crowd around Rocky as they approached the large house. She turned, and noted that two children lingered distant from the others.

"Hey," she greeted, bending to eye-level with the Red and Blue Rangers, "are you two okay?"

They both settled their gaze on her with an intensity Alexis could feel through their visors. "We're just peachy, Purple Ranger."

Alexis managed to release a startled yelp as each child grabbed one arm. Her teeth gnashed as she struggled against their supernatural strength to no avail. She winced helplessly as their grips tightened to bruising force.

"So, what game shall we play first?" Blue wondered.

Red chuckled wickedly, giving Alexis' arm a sharp tug. "Ever played 'Wishbone'?"

"I have a better idea," a voice called, as a powerful leg swiftly crashed into the elbow of the Red Ranger, forcing his grip to loosen. "How 'bout Tag?" Another blow knocked the Blue Ranger off balance. "You're It!"

Without breaking stride, Rocky snatched Alexis by the wrist and hurried down the street. Eyes still glazed from the pain of having her arms nearly pulled from their sockets, Alexis glanced back at her attackers.

Her jaw hung open as their forms shifted, stretching into two sleek, tall, black-clad beings with green and white graffiti streaking their costumes.

I need to Morph...

Frowning, she pulled her hand from Rocky's, forcing him to come to a braking halt. "Rocky, the kids!" she shouted. "You've got to take them and get out of here, pronto!"

He blinked at the force in her tone. "Got it covered. I asked the lady in that last house to keep an eye on them. I figure they're safer off the street."

She grimaced. Dammit. With Rocky here, I can't Morph or contact the others!

* * *

"Oookay," Kim murmured, chewing on her pen, "Once Billy and Trini get here, we'll be able to send out another group. Somebody's gotta stay here and hold down the fort."

"I can take care of that," Ernie volunteered, "Why don't you and Tommy take out the next bunch. I think they're getting antsy."

Kim smiled her gratitude, and nudged her pensive boyfriend. "C'mon, Swash-Buckler! Let's see some cheer!"

He offered a grin to appease her, and let her drag him to the nearest group of anxious children.

"Who's ready to get some treats?" Kim prompted with her beaming smile.

The loud chorus of agreement immediately followed. Kim giggled in response, and cast her eye across the group charged to her care.

Her eyes lingered on the Pink and White Rangers, who stood towards the back of the group, leaning close to each other in what seemed to be a private conversation.

"Aw, that's adorable," she sighed.

Tommy followed her gaze, yet was far from amused. His eyes narrowing, he tapped Kimberly's shoulder. "I need to talk to you."

She nodded, her smile fading as Tommy's serious tone resonated. The pair moved behind the large table of candy, allowing a modicum of privacy.

"Kim, I've only been the White Ranger for a week," he pointed out, his gaze never leaving the two young Rangers. "Where'd that kid get the costume from?"

Kim frowned. "Maybe his mother made it?"

"Doubtful. Especially since the media can't possibly have a decent picture of my uniform anyway."

Kim's hands fell to her hips. "Then I'll ask him."

After receiving a bare nod from her leader, Kim made her way back to the two children of interest. She smiled warmly at both, bending down to eye level. "So, what're your names? I don't think I have you signed in yet."

The Pink Ranger folded her arms. "Kimberly," she hissed in a sharp whisper.

The White Ranger took a step closer to the startled chaperon. "Tommy."

Alarmed, Kim tried to take a step back. Only, the White Ranger's hand darted like a viper, and managed a firm grip on her neck.

Tommy had already leapt over the table before Kim managed her choked gasp.

"Freeze," the Pink Ranger commanded, holding out her hand, "You don't want you little friend hurt... do you?"

Tommy stopped, his fists clenching.

All conversation in the room ceased as slowly, everyone present realized the dangerous scene occurring just feet away. Frozen in fear, one and all held their ground, uncertain whether they should interfere.

All except one, who discreetly strapped on a bright yellow helmet. She slipped through the crowded Youth Center, feeling everyone's eyes on her back as she approached what looked like two obnoxious children.

"Didn't your mothers teach you any manners?" she demanded.

The two "Rangers" looked up to the Juice Bar, and stared openly at the petite form standing boldly at the step. Her arms folded over her chest, she glared down at the delinquents. "Now you're really in trouble, Kids."

A low, rolling chuckle escaped the White Ranger. The grating sound made the lone heroine shiver. "Is that so, Yellow Ranger?"

White lifted his hand, bringing Kimberly's feet off the ground. Everyone blinked as the two small forms gradually stretched, pink and white darkening to black as new beings took shape.

"We are Misfits," the former "Pink Ranger" declared. She then turned to the Yellow Ranger, a cruel smirk on her wrinkled face. "And we're just looking to have a little fun."

The other Misfit took one more glance at his victim, reveling in the pained grimace that marred Kimberly's face. With a dismissive shrug, he tossed her into the refreshment table, watching with wicked amusement as the force of her fall snapped the table like kindling.

He chuckled as Tommy raced to her side, and then turned back to his partner. "I'm curious to see what lesson the Yellow Ranger intends to teach us."

Grinning in agreement, the Misfits pounced on the Power Ranger as one. However, the young woman was ready. She held her ground, arms elevated to block the first jab aimed to her face.

She bit down against a yelp of pain as her forearm absorbed the supernatural impact.

Improvising at the speed of thought, she switched her defensive strategy from "block" to "dodge." She bent backward to avoid the follow-up blow, and leapt to the side to just barely miss a forceful kick from the other Misfit.

The errant kick collided with a load-bearing pillar, causing the children to shriek in panic as dust snowed from the ceiling.

A strange calm suffused her mind as an idea took form. She continued to dodge the subsequent blows, and delivered a fierce kick to one Misfit's unprotected abdomen. She grimaced at the odd feeling as her foot sank into the creature as if he were made of wet sand.

The creature's momentum forced it to crash into its partner, sending both into a row of stools near the Juice Bar. Seizing the opportunity, the Yellow Ranger turned around, and made a mad dash to the wide open doors of the Youth Center.

* * *

Tommy's face was set in a scowl so fierce all the children surrounding the broken table made adequate room for him. He tapped her shoulder gently, yet forcefully.

"Kim?" he urged, leaning as close to her face as possible. His hands hovered anxiously above her, his skin chilling as his harried mind mounted all the possible internal injuries that even jostling her could aggravate.

Only when her eyelids fluttered did he release the tense breath he didn't realize he was holding.

"Kim! Can you hear me?"

"Tommy," she rasped. She flinched, her hands moving to her bruised neck. "What hap-"

Her eyes widened as her memory fell into place. "Where are those kids?"

"Aisha led them out of the Youth Center," he explained in a soft voice.

Kim gasped. "By herself? What was she thinking?"

"I'll make sure to ask her." He leaned closer, touching Kim's cheek. "Will you be okay?"

Her eyes narrowed as she grabbed his wrist. "Help me up."

He read the resolve in her eyes, and quickly shook his head. "Kim-"

"I'm fine," she protested. "Now, help me up!"

He knew better than to waste precious time arguing. Instead, he gently grasped Kim's hand, and wound his other arm behind her back. With the utmost care, he extricated her from the stakes of wood and strewn candy, keeping her weight against his chest.

"You hit the table hard," he pointed out. "Can you stand?"

She chewed her lip as she redistributed her weight. "I can handle it."

* * *

Aisha's chest heaved as she ran faster than she'd ever run before. "Well, it seemed like a good idea..."

Much to her irritation, her father's voice flowed through her mind.

"I guess it's all moot now," she decided, rolling her eyes.

She came to a screeching halt as a black form stepped out of the shadows before her.

"You're rather slow today," he muttered, "Not on your game, eh, Trini?"

Despite the panic quickening her breaths, she gasped loudly at the shocking revelation. "What did you call me??"

A hand tapped her helmet from behind. "Oopsie," the other Misfit sneered, "Looks like we let the cat out of the bag."

The light tap converted into a pounding blow so quickly, Aisha could do nothing but grunt as she fell face first into the grass.

"So, this isn't the Yellow Ranger?" the first Misfit realized. He stepped closer to Aisha. "Boy did you pick a bad time to play Poser."

He wedged his foot under her arm, forcing her to flip onto her back. His head quirked at the hiss of pain that caught his ear.

"What have we here?" the second Misfit murmured, standing on Aisha's other side. "Sounds like someone has an injured arm."

"Sounds like. And I'm sure it needs special attention!"

The first heel that dug into her arm pulled against the stitches, winning a shriek of pain. The second reopened the wound completely, causing a spurt of blood to darken the bright yellow spandex in an ever-expanding stain. The third cleanly snapped the bone beneath the muscle, ripping another scream from Aisha's aching throat. The fourth drove one sharp end of the bone through tissue, penetrating through even the skin.

Before the fifth blow even fell, Aisha couldn't feel anything at all.

Thankfully, the sixth blow never connected. Instead, a piercing beam of laser struck the Misfit square in the chest, bowling her over with enough force to send her crashing into a nearby tree. The second Misfit turned in surprise, catching an arrow in his shoulder. Spinning from the momentum of the arrow, he stumbled away from his victim.

The White and Pink Rangers descended from the roof of the Youth Center in a controlled leap.

"Aisha!" Kim cried, dropping the Power Bow as she kneeled beside her new friend. "Oh gosh... there's so much blood!"

With the utmost care, Tommy unlatched the yellow helmet. He inhaled sharply at her face, moist with tears and wan from her injuries. "Kim, I need you to contact Zordon, and ask him what we should do about Aisha. I'll keep these things busy."

Kim's face tightened beneath her helmet. "Be careful, Tommy," she pleaded, "I'll be right with you."

Tommy nodded before snatching Saba by the hilt and racing to the recovering Misfits. Kim swallowed a lump of fear before raising her communicator to her mouth. "Zordon? Do you read?"

^YES, KIMBERLY. ALPHA AND I HAVE OBSERVED YOU IN THE VIEWING GLOBE.^

"A friend of ours has been hurt pretty bad. I know it's kinda against regulation, but can you take care of her? She was hurt trying to help us."

Zordon responded without hesitation. ^ALPHA WILL TELEPORT YOUR FRIEND DIRECTLY TO A MEDICAL WARD.^

Kimberly watched as Aisha's form dissolved into particles of white light. As if a monumental weight had been lifted, Kim was able to focus on the task at hand. Grabbing her Power Bow, the Pink Ranger leapt back into action.

* * *

"Come out, come out, wherever you are!" one mocking voice sang.

"Oh stop it!" the other voice hissed. "What's the fun of Tag if you don't hunt them down?"

The two creatures exchanged no more words. Alexis felt her heart sink as she realized she much preferred their banter to the eerie silence that followed.

"Tag," she breathed, shaking her head, "Great idea, Rocky."

He shrugged helplessly. "Okay, so maybe I shouldn't have given them any bright ideas. At least I got them off of you."

She grimaced, feeling a twinge of guilt for criticizing him. After all, if he hadn't interfered when he did, the two creatures would've torn her to pieces.

They're definitely strong enough, she reflected, rubbing her shoulder to ease the strain. Still, if Rocky wasn't here, I could just Morph and wipe out these punk monsters, no sweat!

Which posed a problem, since by all appearances Rocky had no plans of going anywhere.

"They're going to find us," Alexis whispered.

Rocky grinned. "Aren't you a ray of sunshine?"

Her temper began to flicker. "This is serious, Rocky! We have to do something, or else we're just sitting ducks."

He leaned closer, his irreverent smile fading. "Do you have a plan?"

She nodded. "We should split up. That'll confuse them."

She watched as his copper eyes slowly widened. "That's a terrible idea! You should never split up when you're being chased."

Alexis immediately went on the defensive. "Like you've done this before!"

"No... but I've seen enough movies."

Alexis shook her head fiercely. "We have to split up. Maybe one of us can slip by them, and call for help! All we're doing now is waiting for the inevitable!"

Sudden movement in the bushes behind them startled both teens. "And it looks like the inevitable has arrived."

The Misfit grinned ruthlessly as Rocky and Alexis leapt to their feet. He crushed the surrounding shrubbery, and closed his fist. "Tag," he muttered. The punch sank deeply into Rocky's stomach, forcing all the air from his lungs. "You're It!"

Rocky released a hoarse cough before crumbling to the ground.

"Rocky!" Alexis screamed. Emerald eyes narrowed as she glared at the Misfit. "You're in for it now!"

She reached for her Morpher, only for a black hand to wrap her wrist in a vice-like grip.

Alexis bit back a scream as the edge of her communicator pierced her skin.

"Big talker, Alexis," the second Misfit mocked, lifting her by the wrist. Alexis squeezed her eyes closed as the pain intensified.

"Ooo... does the Purple Ranger have a boo-boo?" the first Misfit scoffed. Beady eyes followed the thin trickle of blood that seeped from beneath his partner's black grasp. "These humans are certainly fragile, aren't they?"

"Let me go and I'll show you 'fragile'," Alexis snarled.

Her goading earned another tight squeeze against her wrist. She shrieked aloud as the metal clasp snapped, biting deeper into her flesh.

"Hey," the other Misfit called, "Don't humans die from slicing their wrists?"

The Misfit holding Alexis smiled widely. "I think we just found a new game to play..."

Alexis squeezed her eyes closed, an icy terror numbing her senses as she waited for the next wave of pain to strike. Instead, she heard a shrill howl, followed by a dizzying sensation of free fall that was quickly replaced by a solid warmth against her skin.

She opened her eyes warily, and stared at the bold white diamond that rested proudly against crimson armor. "Jase..."

"You're gonna be fine, Lex," he murmured, his deep voice vibrating through his chest. Alexis relaxed in his arms, eyes drooping closed as he carefully set her on the grass.

"Alexis!" he said sharply, "Stay with me!"

She shook her head, fighting against the exhaustion that seemed to swallow her whole. "I'm... with you."

His gloved hand cradled her chin, forcing her eyes to his. "Lex, Zedd has sent six monsters to Earth. Six. So we'll need the whole team to take them down."

His gaze shifted from her glassy eyes to the rich crimson seeping from numerous small gashes in her wrist. "What happened?"

"My communicator," she whispered, blinking her injured arm into focus, "It cut into my skin. I... guess it fell off."

"Zordon," Jason called into his wrist, "Alexis has been wounded. Please teleport her in for treatment."

"Wait," she gasped, eyes widening to full consciousness, "Rocky! Is he okay?"

"Relax, Lex," he urged, watching her vanish from his arms, "I'll take care of everything."

"Will you now?" two voices chorused.

Jason rose to his feet, his expression darkening as he turned to face the two waiting Misfits.

* * *

Adam watched as Zack leapt into the air. His feet plowed into the chests of both black creatures, causing them to stagger and earning the young man precious moments to regain his balance, and raise his guard.

Incredible... he mused, staring openly at Zack's focused, attentive frown, He's so composed, you'd think he fought for his life every day!

As the creatures recovered, Zack began shifting his feet, almost like a football player itching to dash across the field. Then, his entire body bent, narrowly missing an angry fist from one creature, only to lean back into place just in time to fire another fierce kick.

His moves were almost serpentine in their agility.

Adam then shook himself from his awe. There were more important things to do than gawk at an unfamiliar fighting style.

Thankfully, the children were out of harm's way. When the two quiet ones had knocked down the door of their first house, the others nearly panicked. It only took a few moments to designate one of them the leader, and ask her to guide the others back to the Youth Center.

True, that meant six unsupervised children would have to walk nearly a quarter of a mile, but there were few places in Angel Grove more dangerous than that quiet front yard at that moment. Also, he couldn't let Zack face such a threat by himself.

The two young men were able to keep up a decent contest for ten minutes. But the mocking grins of the creatures spoke volumes... they were merely playing.

And when they did choose to hit with full force, Adam quickly realized he and Zack had no chance of overwhelming them.

Adam dusted himself off from his latest tumble in the grass, and rubbed the dull ache across his chest where the last blow had landed. He then took a steadying breath, and rushed back to his new friend.

Rather than waste the minor advantage surprise afforded him, he silently rushed toward the fighters. He channeled that momentum into a jump kick, connecting with the small of one monster's back, and driving her into her partner.

He then rushed to Zack's side. "Are you okay?'

"Just dandy," Zack heaved, "How 'bout yourself? That kick to the chest was nasty!"

Adam grimaced. "It was, but if it was any lower, I might've broken some ribs."

Zack nodded his understanding.

Adam stole another glance at his partner, curiosity finally overwhelming his focus. "Zack, I have to ask you something."

The young man stiffened. "Yeah?"

"How did you... bend like that?"

The inexplicable tension melted off Zack's face. "Bro, when this is all over, I'm introducing you to the beauty of Hip Hop Kido!"

At that moment, a flash of vibrant blue erupted just feet away. Both young men watched the light take shape, and stared openly at the newly-arrival hero.

"The Blue Ranger!" Adam gasped.

"What's going on?" Zack demanded.

"Both of you need to clear out immediately," Blue advised, spinning his Power Lance, "These are magical creatures from the moon, and are far more dangerous than they appear."

Adam's eyes widened. "Far more dangerous?"

Zack frowned. "C'mon, Adam. Let's give the man room to work."

Together, Zack and Adam hurried away from the battle site, heading in the general direction of the Youth Center. After about a block, Zack slowed down.

"What?" Adam called, turning to his new friend.

"Listen, Man... I live that way," he explained, pointing down a cross street. "I'm kinda worried about my family, so I think I'll just go home."

Adam nodded. "I'll come with you. Just in case."

Zack's lip quirked. "I appreciate it, but one of us needs to see that the kids got back to the Youth Center safe and sound."

Adam found himself watching Zack's expression carefully. Why was he so nervous? Considering his poise facing evil alien creatures, his sudden discomfiture was inexplicable.

Finally, he nodded. "I'll make sure the kids are okay. Be careful, Zack."

Zack smiled gratefully, grasping Adam's hand and shaking it in earnest. "You too, Adam. And I'll catch ya tomorrow, okay?"

"You got it."

The two young men parted ways, racing to their destinations at breakneck speed. After running half a block, Zack stole a glance behind him. Then, without breaking stride, he dodged between two stores, and dug into his pocket.

"It's Morphin' Time!" he called into the night, "Mastodon!"

* * *

They're Putties, Kimberly determined, Just pumped up Putties...

True, Lord Zedd's typical Putty Patroller was far less of a threat. It couldn't speak, couldn't really think, and couldn't improvise. They always bumbled through a fight, falling for the same tricks over and over.

These creatures were much more. Not only could they talk, they were even capable of mockery and wit, not to mention strategy. Plus, their endurance was miles ahead of your average Putty, and they lacked the telltale Z plate on their chest.

But... the streaks on them look like Rita's Putties, the Pink Ranger noted. Could Finster have baked these?

She deflected the Misfit's fists with her forearm, observing the fighting form with a critical eye. Yet what was most disturbing about the creature was its face. The mounting frustration was evident in the narrow, beady eyes and tightly-pursed lips. Even though the face was clearly constructed from moist clay, it was emotive.

"C'mon, Sweet Cheeks," he goaded, "Show me what you got!"

It was so strange to hear a monster leer at her. It almost made her feel awkward, like when she walked past a construction site and fell victim to degrading cat-calls. The Misfits acted far too... human for comfort.

Not just human...she realized, They're rude, obnoxious bullies!

Kimberly was so stunned by her conclusion that she left herself wide open for a sharp knee to her solar plexus. Gasping for breath, the Pink Ranger folded.

* * *

She seemed to collapse in slow motion. It was surreal, watching her fall forward without the barest sound. No scream of pain, no cry for help. Just... nothing.

And suddenly, Tommy Oliver was terrified.

The Misfit he faced must've sensed his tension, for she released a long, indulgent cackle. "Sorry, Big Guy... this isn't tag team. You wanna tackle my partner, you gotta get through me first."

It was the single biggest mistake the Misfit could've made.

The White Ranger reached for Saba, clenching the hilt so tightly the sword winced. "You squeezed?" the saber grumbled.

"We gotta make this quick, Saba," Tommy informed his partner. Rather than supply further wry commentary, Saba heeded the dark anger in the White Ranger's tone. Now was not the time for bickering.

The Misfit smirked. "Bring it on!"

The sharp edge of the enchanted saber began to glow with a faint aura. "You asked for it."

Between the fierce slices of heated steel, the Misfit managed a few grunts of pain. As reinforced metal cleaved through joints, even the pliable nature of the clay couldn't keep the being together. She struggled to maintain her balance... to retaliate, only to have each appendage methodically removed from her body. And as each piece slid to the ground, it crumbled to mud.

Tommy spun Saba in his hand, orienting the head upward. Reaching forward, a stream of laser struck the pile, obliterating any vestige of intelligent matter.

Then, the White Ranger quirked his head to the other Misfit.

The last creature took an involuntary step back. That step was soon followed by another, and before long, Misfit was making a hasty retreat into the surrounding shadows.

* * *

"And, yet again, you disappoint me, Finster." Lord Zedd stepped away from the parapet, turning his back to the planet that dared to defy his rule. "Why am I not surprised?"

Finster scowled, but put every effort into keeping his voice measured. "All is not lost, Sire."

Zedd responded with a low, chilling laugh. "Oh? I beg to differ, Alchemist. Tommy just annihilated one of your precious Misfits in fourteen seconds. Even someone of your limited intelligence can calculate how long the remaining five will last!"

"My Misfit has not been annihilated," Finster corrected. "And as Tommy frets over his comrade, not only will my Misfits recuperate, they will retaliate with a force the Rangers cannot hope to conquer."

The Emperor scoffed. "That remains to be seen."

* * *

"Kim? Kim!"

"I'm okay, Tommy," she assured him, carefully sitting up from the grass, "That was just stupid. I let my guard down, and the jerk took advantage of it."

While Tommy was unspeakably relieved to see his girlfriend make such a speedy recovery, her comment struck an odd chord. "The 'jerk'?"

She nodded. "Have you noticed how strange these Misfits act? They make fun of us, they hassle us, and they just love sneaky attacks. They're acting like jerks!" She then grabbed Tommy's hand. "Very specific jerks."

Tommy blinked. "You mean...?"

"Zedd, or Finster, or whoever has created these monsters from Bulk, Skull, and all the other punks that were attacked last night. I'm sure of it!"

The White Ranger frowned, his concern mounting as he considered the implications.

"These monsters and last night's attacks have to be related," Kim pressed. "I don't know what has been done to Skull and the others, but these monsters have... I don't know... a part of them. The bully part."

"If that's true, then if we destroy the Misfits, we might..." Tommy found he couldn't finish his sentence. Instead, he turned around, looking for the scattered dust that was the remains of one Misfit.

Only, what he saw was far from remains.

"Kim, look!"

The two Rangers watched in silence as the mud specks gathered together, creating an amorphous pile that sat on the grass.

"You thought this was over?" said the other Misfit, emerging from the surrounding trees to take his place beside his erstwhile partner.

He stood straight, his arms akimbo, as the clay merged with him. His voice deepened, his triumphant laughter rumbling as every muscle beneath his oily exterior inflated to double its breadth.

The nine-foot tall creature folded its thick arms, and stared down at the two shell-shocked Power Rangers. "Time for Round Two..."