drunkenpandaren (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
drunkenpandaren) wrote2010-07-06 02:05 pm
drunkenpandaren) wrote2010-07-06 02:05 pm
Entry tags:
It Could Always Be Worse SPD to JF 3/?
“You know this is the first time we’ve been off-world with the family,” said Quint as she adjusted her sundress. “Ne, Genya?”
“Ah, yes.” Said Genya, looking a touch uncomfortable in his western-style outfit. Subaru clung to his leg while Ginga looked around, wide eyed. “It’s nice but I think we touched down in the wrong area.”
“Did the transport beam mess up?” inquired Quint. “We should be in Reefside.”
“I don’t know…”
Just then, creatures pulled themselves out of a nearby crack, waving swords. Quint looked at Genya as they hugged their kids to them. “Welcome wagon?”
“If it is, I don’t like Earth already.”
As the creatures prepared to surge forward, the thumping of a drum could be heard as kuroko in black rushed around, holding up banners with a flower-like motif on them. Two of them came over to the family and escorted them back a little ways as a regal voice proclaimed, “Stop right there Gedoushou!”
Standing there, dressed in white and blue hakama were five young men and women. “Gedoushou, you face now the 17th head of the Shiba Clan, Lord Takeru Shiba! Give up now! And it’ll make your lives less painful!” barked the man next to him.
“Ryunousuke-kun, I don’t think it’s going to work again,” said the gentle looking small girl next to him.
“Ah, sorry, I just wanted to see if it would work…”
“Hold the children Genya,” said Quint. “Excuse me, Power Rangers? You need to step up and hurry it up, we’re on vacation. “Revolver Knuckle!”
[Standby Ready!]
“Set up!”
“Wait… Power Rangers?” inquired Chiaki. “But we’re not…”
“Just go with it,” said Takeru suddenly as he produced his Shodophone. “Ippitsu Shojo!”
In a blast of colorful characters five armored people stood there. Out of respect for them, Quint held back, refraining from attacking the Gedoushou.
“ShinkenRed, Shiba Takeru.”
“The Same Blue! Ikanami Ryunousuke!”
“The Same Pink! Shirashi Mako!”
“The Same Green! Tane Chiaki!”
“The Same Yellow! Hanamori Kotoha!”
“Samurai sentai authorized by providence! Shinkenger! Going forth!”
Then the fighting began.
Ranger response teams were fairly good but there was a bit of a lag time when Operation Overdrive finally reached the site of attack. Quint was there with her family, having ice cream with a pleasant looking girl in yellow. “Quint Nakajima?” asked Mack as he and his team arrived. “Sorry it took so long.”
“It’s alright,” said Quint pleasantly as a sticky looking Subaru and Ginga played with the other woman who was in pink with Genya looking after them as well. “Don’t you have teleportation capabilities though?”
“Mr. Hartford hasn’t finished it yet,” admitted Dax. “It should be fully operational though soon.”
The small yellow-clad girl bowed a little as she stood. “Ranger-san,” said Kotoha. “I’m Hanamori Kotoha, and this is my companion Shirashi Mako-chan. It’s very nice to meet you all.”
“Nice to meet you Kotoha, Mako,” said Will. “We’re Operation Overdrive.”
“Ah yes, our more… famous counterparts,” smiled Mako. “Everyone in Japan has heard of the famous Power Rangers.”
“Likewise. We had no idea there was a team in Japan though,” said Rose.
“There have been many generations of Shinkenger, but our adventures have been confined to this area of the world,” said Mako.
“But… the giant robot battles,” said Ronny, blinking widely. “How…?”
Kotoha and Mako looked at each other, giggled and shrugged. “It’s Japan.”
“Samurai, as in real samurai.” Said Cam.
“Yeah, from what the reports of the Overdrive team said. We should at least form up a contingent and talk to them directly.” Shane folded his arms. “You wanna go don’t you?”
“Of course! A team formed entirely of samurai rangers! How could I not?” exclaimed Cam at Shane’s grin. “You know something I don’t know, don’t you?”
“For once,” snickered Dustin. “Dude, we’ve been chosen as the contingent along with Yuuno and Chrono.”
“Poor guys,” said Tori. “They’re constantly being forced into this sort of stuff.”
“Yeah. So Cam, got those reworked powers for us?” inquired Shane hopefully.
“Like I never stopped working on it,” chuckled Cam as he produced three morphers with brand new disks attached to them. “I took a cue from Ninjor and got his input on forging these disks. We’re tapping directly into the morphin grid now.”
“Duuuuuude,” drawled Dustin as he took his Yellow Earth Morpher. “That’s like hardcore! We’re totally like the MMPR Ninjas now!”
“You might find the power intoxicating at first but don’t be alarmed. Oh and the Color coded thing is totally normal.”
“Yeah what’s up with that?” inquired Tori curiously.
“When massive amounts of morphin grid energy are put into someone’s body of a particular shade, it will cause a feedback loop resulting in the need to wear your color. It’s an indicator of how much morphin energy is in your body.” Explained Cam.
“Well it’s not like I don’t wear enough red already,” laughed Shane.
“Home sweet home,” sighed Sensei as they got off the plane. “I have missed this country.”
“You were born here sensei?” inquired Shane as he shouldered his red duffle bag.
“Yes, and lived her for the first ten years of my life before my parents immigrated us to America. And then I decided to join the Wind Ninja Academy, and thus became the head after ages of training.” Said Sensei. “Myself, and Kiya.”
Tori winced at the mention of Lothor. “Well at least he’s gone now.”
In the ruins of Mesogog’s lair, a black leather covered hand exploded out of the rubble, followed by the rest of Lothor. “I am going to KILL that dinosaur if the Dino Rangers haven’t done it yet!”
“My lord, we have visitors,” said Ji as the small contingent of casually dressed Rangers stepped into the room, many of them looking around in awe at the peaceful looking household.
Takeru nodded and he turned to the others with his usual stoic look. “Welcome Rangers of America. I am Shiba Takeru.”
“A pleasure to meet the head of the Shiba Clan, Takeru-tono,” said Sensei, bowing. “These are fellow masters of the Wind Ninja Academy. Tori, Shane and Dustin. Along with my son, Cam who is also a master of the Samurai.”
Ryuunosuke looked very interested at that. “A samurai? Among ninja?”
“Yes, my mother was Samurai, and I was trained in her ways,” said Cam.
Dustin leaned over and whispered, “Hey Tori, I don’t speak a word of Japanese but why can I understand them?”
“You didn’t read the notes on our new morphers?” inquired Tori softly. “The Power acts as a universal translator.”
“Oh. Dude that is so sweet. You think I could get a date then?” Tori elbowed him.
“Focus,” hissed Shane.
“Sorry to have dragged your family into this sir,” said Chrono as he and Yuuno met up with the Nakajimas in their hotel room. “I’ve spoken to the operator of the transport beam and apparently it knocked off course when hitting a snarl in the morphin grid.”
“It’s quite alright, Subaru and Ginga love it here,” smiled Genya. “And Japan was on our To Visit List while on vacation here.”
“We’ll be meeting up with the Shinkengers and Ninja Storm once they get everything arranged,” said Yuuno. “We’ve been planning on expanding the new project to these shores pretty soon at least.”
“Ah yes, the new Space Patrol Delta program,” said Genya, nodding. “How is that working out for you?”
“It’s raising he, er, heck at least,” laughed Yuuno, censoring himself around the smaller children. “Ever see a Starlight Breaker being forced into a zord finishing move? It’s GLORIOUS.”
“You’re just jealous that you don’t get to drive a zord yet,” ribbed Chrono.
It had been long in coming. Ryuunousuke, eager to speak with Cam about his sword style had challenged him to a spar. It soon followed with the pair facing off with wooden bokotou in the training yard of the Shiba compound.
“Fight to first contact,” said Kotoha, acting as judge. “Both sides ready?” A nod. “Begin!”
The pair passed each other. And Ryuunousuke slumped to the ground, holding his side. “Finish!” exclaimed Kotoha as Cam made a sheathing motion.
“That was… so fast,” breathed Chiaki in surprise. “How…?”
“Oh I see,” said Genta, having come out of nowhere, startling many. “He uses an ida style, but more than that. Take-chan.”
Takeru nodded. “He’s more experienced than Ryuunousuke by years. And an active Ranger since 2003. We’ve only been active for a few months by far, even with Genta with us.”
Ryuunousuke got up and bowed politely to Cam. “Cam-san, thank you for the amazing match. I am both humbled and awed by your skill!”
Cam rubbed his head. “It was nothing. It’s just a thing I do…”
“Aw don’t feel so modest Cam,” laughed Shane, slapping his fellow master on the shoulder. “Cam’s been training since he can walk like you have. But being a Ranger really ups your awesome level.”
“But we aren’t Rangers,” said Mako, interrupting. “We are Shinkenger.”
“You are still cut from the same cloth,” said Sensei with a calm smile. “We may be separated by race, class and heritage, but in the end we are still defenders of the world.”
“It seems we all still have things to learn,” chuckled Ji. “Rangers and Shinkenger alike.”
“Um, Tommy?”
Tommy looked up with a popsicle stick in his mouth. “What’s up Hayley?”
“I don’t mean to be a bearer of bad news, but I just detected a familiar energy signature coming from the island.” Said Hayley.
“Island as in…” Tommy went to the phone and dialed a number. “Anton, I know you’re there,” he said when a seeming automated reply came up.
“Of course I am,” said Anton as he swapped out of the automated reply. “What’s wrong Tommy?”
“Hayley’s picking up a energy signature coming from your island.” He turned to Hayley, got a reply and added, “It’s apparently really familiar but not dinosaur dna. Like a flow of energy from the Abyss of Evil. Anything you want to tell us?”
“… damn. I knew I forgot something,” said Anton with a hint of frustration in his voice. “When I was Mesogog, I shrunk Lothor down and stuck him in stasis.”
“And you forgot to tell us?! Hayley, where’s he headed?”
“Japan. Guess who’s there by the way,” said Hayley.
You could see Anton wince. “Elsa prepare the supersonic jet!” he called out on his end. “Tommy, gather your reinforcements. I’ll call the Thunder Rangers.”
“Right. Any suggestions on Rangers?”
“Max limit of three Red Rangers,” said Anton before hanging up.
“A 454,” said Ji, reading off the stick location as kuroko appeared and held up a map of Japan. “Akihabara?”
“Maybe they wanted to go shopping,” chuckled Shane.
“Dude, maybe for action figures!” exclaimed Dustin. “I saw these really cool ones on ebay from Final Fantasy…”
“Focus Dustin,” said Tori. “We’ll come along with you guys.”
“We appreciate the help,” nodded Ji. “My lord.”
Takeru nodded and gestured as they moved out.
“Samurai sentai authorized by providence! Shinkenger! Going forth!”
“Dude… that was the longest intro ever,” said Dustin, his expression breaking into a cheesy grin. “I like it!”
Smothering a grin cause Shane honestly liked it too, he raised his arm. “Well no time like the present then. Ready?”
“Ninja Storm!”
“Samurai Storm!”
“Ranger Form HA!”
Explosions of light erupted from the four. “Power of Air!”
“Power of Earth!”
“Power of Water!”
“Samurai Power!”
“NINJA STORM!” And the background erupted with a morph explosion, nearly hitting a few kuroko in the process and incinerating the background.
Shane winced. “Oh sorry dude, we’ll pay for that!”
“Wow… now I don’t feel so goofy with our traditions,” said Chiaki.
“I like it,” said Kotoha honestly. “It was so cool!”
“The banner…” gaped Ryuunousuke at the rapidly burning banner.
“Forget about it, let’s go,” said Takeru.
“Take-chan’s got lots anyhow,” reassured Genta.
Mako grinned under her helmet. This was one of those days wasn’t it?
“Ah Japan. The sun, the smells…” Lothor inhaled sharply and coughed. “Aw gross, how long has that fish been out in the sun?!”
Trudging through the streets, the eternal enemy of Ninja Storm followed his nose until he found himself a place to sit down. “Sushi seller! I thirst. Bring me food and drink and I won’t blow you away.”
“Yes sir.” Said Genta, feeling put out. Really, how many weird people would come to his stand anyhow?! First that Juuzou guy and then this guy…?!
After Lothor was fed and watered, he belched. “My compliments. I haven’t had sushi like that since I moved from this place as a kid.”
“You used to live here sir?” inquired Genta, having found Lothor something of a polite man as long as you didn’t threaten or look at him funny. DaiGoyou still found him weird.
“Sure I did! I’m Japanese after all.”
Genta seriously doubted that, but if he only lived here for so long, he wouldn’t have an accent. Right?
“More visitors?” inquired Chiaki as Ji lead the new people in.
“Sorry to intrude, but this was an emergency,” said Tommy. “I’m Dr. Tommy Oliver, Red Zeo Ranger. These are my companions. Kimberly Hart, Pink Morphin…”
Kim nodded at them politely. “Taylor Earhardt, Yellow Wild Force…”
“Pleasure to meet you all.” Said Taylor.
“Rocky DeSantos, Blue Zeo,” Rocky raised a hand in greeting. “And the Thunder Rangers, Hunter and Blake Bradley, Crimson Thunder and Navy Thunder.”
The pair of ninja bowed politely. Kotoha bowed back.
“Oh hey Dr. O, what’s up?” inquired Dustin. “Dude, Hunter, Blake!”
“Dude!” The trio shared brofists and handshakes with the others.
“Lothor’s back,” said Tommy, making the others expressions fall. “Anton said he didn’t get rid of him back during the Mesogog days.”
“Oh dude, not cool.” Said Shane.
“Who or what is Lothor?” inquired Ji.
“Lothor is a ninja who was banished to space and came back wielding the dark energies of our profession,” said Sensei, his expression thoughtful. “But what could he be doing in Japan?”
“We have a guess. He’s going to open the Abyss of Evil here in Japan. It has no paranormal defense against something like that.” said Taylor.
“And you do not want one of those opened up here,” said Kim. “It’s really bad news.”
Silence. And Ryuunousuke asked, “What exactly is an Abyss of Evil?”
“Subaru? Subaruuuu!” Ginga pouted. “Mou, where did she go…?”
The pair had been playing in the park when the little girl had wandered off. Frowning, she searched around until she came across a man dressed in black. He looked tall and menacing, with a full mask with holes for his eyes and mouth with small horns adorning it. But in his lap, he was talking with Subaru as she munched on takoyaki.
“You see little one, the trick to eating takoyaki is making a o with your mouth,” instructed Lothor. “and letting the heat puff out with each munch.” And he demonstrated with an octopus ball. “See?”
“Mm!” And Subaru copied his actions and gleefully ate her takoyaki. “It’s so yummy!”
“Yes, it’s one of the treats I sorely missed from this place.”
“You haven’t lived here long Ojiisan?” inquired Subaru and Ginga giggled just a little bit, watching the scary looking man play with her little sister.
“Not since I was little. I had bigger things to get to! And really, there isn’t much I could do to settle down. I have family, but they’re all weirdoes.” Said Lothor.
“I think Ojiisan’s family would be nice,” said Subaru honestly.
“You’d think that, but my own nephew stuck me in a hole in the ground about three or four years ago.” Said Lothor with a shake of his head. “He would have made a fine member of my organization.”
“That’s not very nice,” said Subaru with a pout. “Family shouldn’t put each other in the ground. If I see him, I’ll give him a good kick!”
“Aim for the shins.”
“Um, excuse me Ojiisan,” said Ginga, coming out of hiding. “That’s my sister.”
“Oh, so it is,” said Lothor. “You can have her back.”
“Gin-nee, I wanna say with Ojiisan,” said Subaru. “He’s nice.”
“He’s scary though,” said Ginga honestly and Lothor laughed at that. “Well you wear that mask and gloves and jacket!”
“Don’t look so surprised little one, I am scary. I’m the meanest Space Ninja in the cosmos.” Boasted Lothor.
“Ninja are cool though,” said Subaru, blinking wide eyes at him. “I wanna be a ninja!”
“I thought you wanted to be like mother?” inquired Ginga.
“Iie. I can be both! Space Ninja and like Okaasan!” exclaimed Subaru with a shake of her head.
“The kid has ambition I’ll give her that,” said Lothor with a grin. “Reminds me of myself at her age! Of course at my age I was already dipping into the dark arts.”
“See? He’s scary. And he’s probably a villain too,” pouted Ginga.
“Nuh uh,” disagreed Subaru and the girls degenerated into a Nuh Uh/Uh Huh argument.
“Told you he’s evil,” said Ginga as Lothor opened the Abyss of Evil.
“Naw, he’s just misunderstood,” said Subaru with that child-like assurance.
“Um, sir, are you adopting again?” inquired Zurgane as he looked at the two little children standing there at the entrance of the Abyss of Evil.
“No Zurgane, just teaching them a few things. Besides, they’re much more eager to help than my REAL nieces.” Replied Lothor. “Good to have you back General!”
“Hold it right there!” exclaimed Cam who came upon them first with Genya and Quint following behind.
“Well well if it isn’t my nephew. Pretty far out this time, wouldn’t you agree?” said Lothor cordially.
“Subaru, Ginga, get away from him! He’s a bad man!” exclaimed Quint in horror.
“Don’t worry your pretty head about it madam, I just treated them to a sight s’all.”
“And takoyaki!” added Subaru happily as she walked over to Cam and kicked him in the shin.
Cam leaped in pain. “OW! What was that for?!”
“For being a meanie!” Subaru pouted as Ginga stifled a giggle. “You put him in a hole!”
“Uh… sorry?”
“Never ever do that again,” said Subaru in the sternest voice possible.
Genya smothered a grin. That was his little girl alright. Fearless even in the face of impending doom.
“I really have to do this, it’s tradition and all,” said Lothor. “Madam you might want to get the kids to step back a little. I don’t make it a policy to harm innocent civilians.”
“Oh sure, when did that ever stop you?” snorted Cam as the Samurai Amulet expanded. “Ninja Storm Ranger Form Ha!”
In a blast of light, Cam drew his sword. “Green Samurai Ranger!”
“Oh you’ll probably have to do a little better than that dear nephew,” said Lothor as he cracked his knuckles and neck while the Mid-Childan residents on vacation drew back. “Bust out your Super Samurai Mode, will ya? I’ve got a fight itch to scratch!”
Cam had to hand it to Lothor, he sure knew how to push his buttons. “Super Samurai Mode!”
“Now we’re talking!” chortled Lothor as he rushed into battle, a platoon of Kelzaks appearing behind him.
“Wow. I don’t think I’ve seen this many enemies since the Abyss of Evil opened up the first time,” said Shane.
Dustin however was looking at the banners, newly replaced and sporting all of their team logos mushed together. “Dude, any more black on white and it’ll look like a panda!”
Tommy smothered his grin. “Alright let’s get it done.”
“Will you people hurry it up?” snarked Lothor. “And you, Shinkenger people! Follow the Rangers lead! I don’t have all day. I’m missing my nap.”
Takeru understandably looked put out as Sensei shrugged apologetically. “READY!” yelled Tommy and he was answered by a chorus of stances.
“Shodophone! Ippitsu Shojo!”
“Ikkan Kenjo!”
“It’s Morphin Time!”
“Wild Access!”
“Setup Cartridge! SPD Emergency!”
“Ninja Storm!”
“Thunder Storm!”
“Samurai Storm!”
“Ranger Form!”
“HA!” And in a shower of light, Ranger armor formed as energy built.
“ShinkenRed!”
“Blue!”
“Pink!”
“Green!”
“Yellow!”
“Gold!”
“Shinkenger Going Forth!” And the Kuroko scrambled out of the way as the force of their morph erupted behind them.
“Mighty Morphin Power Ranger!” yelled Kimberly.
“Red Zeo Ranger!” added Tommy.
“Blue Zeo Ranger!” finished Rocky.
“POWER RANGERS!” And an explosion erupted out from behind them as well, the force of years of build up fountaining outwards.
“Spirit of the Eagle! Yellow Wild Force Ranger!” called out Taylor.
“Riot 1 SPD Red Ranger!” added Yuuno.
“Riot Enforcer SPD Ranger!” finished Chrono, spinning his staff around.
“Power of Air!”
“Power of Earth!”
“Power of Water!”
“Crimson Thunder!”
“Navy Thunder!”
“Samurai Power!”
“NINJA STORM!” And kuroko scrambled again as the entire background caught fire again in the explosion.
Lothor clapped. “THERE! Now that’s theatrics! I like it! I like it so much I just gotta do it again and again. GET THEM!”
And his army surged forward.
“Dude, sorry about all of those banners were blew up,” said Dustin as he shook hands with Takeru. “But I guess your suits don’t energy runoff.”
“We’d have gone through too many banners that way,” said Takeru with a little smile. “Now that Lothor is in custody, what will you do?”
“The Nakajimas have volunteered to “rehabilitate” him,” said Sensei, much to the wide smirks of the assembled people. “It seems that Subaru regards him as an uncle. And in truth there is a little bit of truth to that, as the Wantanabe clan once had people who moved to Mid-childa. The relation is distant enough, but perhaps Kiya will regain his old self.”
“I’m surprised Lothor even agreed to it,” said Cam. “But then again, try explaining Marah and Kapri.”
“Dude, that’s worrisome. I mean, let Lothor live with a couple of kids and a family?” said Shane. “On Mid-childa?”
“I’m certain Quint can keep them in line,” said Yuuno in a placating manner. “At least then we can deal with explaining his presence to Mid-childa.”
“He’s heavily monitored and I’ve assigned some of my own people to the case,” said Yuuno.
“So if you guys ever need help, just call.” Said Tommy. “And oh, this is for you.”
He handed Takeru a small envelope. “it’s not much, but please take it.”
“Such a weird few days,” said Chiaki, groaning as he sat down.
“Yes, but those Rangers… I see now why everyone believes they are legends.” Said Kotoha.
“More like legendary,” said Ryuunosuke, clearly impressed with many of them. “It is too bad we won’t see them for a while. Tono… did you read the message?”
“Ah. Yes.” Takeru nodded and Mako tilted her head as he handed it to her.
“To the Shinkenger. We are pleased to bestow the title of Ranger upon you for your heroic deeds. We know without a doubt that you will become a legend in your own right. Sincerely...” She blinked as she turned the card around which was just scrawled with dozens of names.
“That’s… impressive,” said Genta, for one stunned nearly to speechlessness.
“They… consider us Rangers,” said Kotoha in awe. “Everyone does. Look, there’s Shane-san’s name…”
“And Tommy’s…”
“And this is Cam’s…”
Takeru smiled just slightly before Ji caught him doing so and he smothered his expression.
Just then, the bells rang and Ji went over. “D 42. Ginza. Tono.”
“Ji.” Ji stopped for a moment as Takeru got up. “Tell the kuroko to leave the banner.”
Ji smothered a grin. “Of course tono.”
“Ah, yes.” Said Genya, looking a touch uncomfortable in his western-style outfit. Subaru clung to his leg while Ginga looked around, wide eyed. “It’s nice but I think we touched down in the wrong area.”
“Did the transport beam mess up?” inquired Quint. “We should be in Reefside.”
“I don’t know…”
Just then, creatures pulled themselves out of a nearby crack, waving swords. Quint looked at Genya as they hugged their kids to them. “Welcome wagon?”
“If it is, I don’t like Earth already.”
As the creatures prepared to surge forward, the thumping of a drum could be heard as kuroko in black rushed around, holding up banners with a flower-like motif on them. Two of them came over to the family and escorted them back a little ways as a regal voice proclaimed, “Stop right there Gedoushou!”
Standing there, dressed in white and blue hakama were five young men and women. “Gedoushou, you face now the 17th head of the Shiba Clan, Lord Takeru Shiba! Give up now! And it’ll make your lives less painful!” barked the man next to him.
“Ryunousuke-kun, I don’t think it’s going to work again,” said the gentle looking small girl next to him.
“Ah, sorry, I just wanted to see if it would work…”
“Hold the children Genya,” said Quint. “Excuse me, Power Rangers? You need to step up and hurry it up, we’re on vacation. “Revolver Knuckle!”
[Standby Ready!]
“Set up!”
“Wait… Power Rangers?” inquired Chiaki. “But we’re not…”
“Just go with it,” said Takeru suddenly as he produced his Shodophone. “Ippitsu Shojo!”
In a blast of colorful characters five armored people stood there. Out of respect for them, Quint held back, refraining from attacking the Gedoushou.
“ShinkenRed, Shiba Takeru.”
“The Same Blue! Ikanami Ryunousuke!”
“The Same Pink! Shirashi Mako!”
“The Same Green! Tane Chiaki!”
“The Same Yellow! Hanamori Kotoha!”
“Samurai sentai authorized by providence! Shinkenger! Going forth!”
Then the fighting began.
Ranger response teams were fairly good but there was a bit of a lag time when Operation Overdrive finally reached the site of attack. Quint was there with her family, having ice cream with a pleasant looking girl in yellow. “Quint Nakajima?” asked Mack as he and his team arrived. “Sorry it took so long.”
“It’s alright,” said Quint pleasantly as a sticky looking Subaru and Ginga played with the other woman who was in pink with Genya looking after them as well. “Don’t you have teleportation capabilities though?”
“Mr. Hartford hasn’t finished it yet,” admitted Dax. “It should be fully operational though soon.”
The small yellow-clad girl bowed a little as she stood. “Ranger-san,” said Kotoha. “I’m Hanamori Kotoha, and this is my companion Shirashi Mako-chan. It’s very nice to meet you all.”
“Nice to meet you Kotoha, Mako,” said Will. “We’re Operation Overdrive.”
“Ah yes, our more… famous counterparts,” smiled Mako. “Everyone in Japan has heard of the famous Power Rangers.”
“Likewise. We had no idea there was a team in Japan though,” said Rose.
“There have been many generations of Shinkenger, but our adventures have been confined to this area of the world,” said Mako.
“But… the giant robot battles,” said Ronny, blinking widely. “How…?”
Kotoha and Mako looked at each other, giggled and shrugged. “It’s Japan.”
“Samurai, as in real samurai.” Said Cam.
“Yeah, from what the reports of the Overdrive team said. We should at least form up a contingent and talk to them directly.” Shane folded his arms. “You wanna go don’t you?”
“Of course! A team formed entirely of samurai rangers! How could I not?” exclaimed Cam at Shane’s grin. “You know something I don’t know, don’t you?”
“For once,” snickered Dustin. “Dude, we’ve been chosen as the contingent along with Yuuno and Chrono.”
“Poor guys,” said Tori. “They’re constantly being forced into this sort of stuff.”
“Yeah. So Cam, got those reworked powers for us?” inquired Shane hopefully.
“Like I never stopped working on it,” chuckled Cam as he produced three morphers with brand new disks attached to them. “I took a cue from Ninjor and got his input on forging these disks. We’re tapping directly into the morphin grid now.”
“Duuuuuude,” drawled Dustin as he took his Yellow Earth Morpher. “That’s like hardcore! We’re totally like the MMPR Ninjas now!”
“You might find the power intoxicating at first but don’t be alarmed. Oh and the Color coded thing is totally normal.”
“Yeah what’s up with that?” inquired Tori curiously.
“When massive amounts of morphin grid energy are put into someone’s body of a particular shade, it will cause a feedback loop resulting in the need to wear your color. It’s an indicator of how much morphin energy is in your body.” Explained Cam.
“Well it’s not like I don’t wear enough red already,” laughed Shane.
“Home sweet home,” sighed Sensei as they got off the plane. “I have missed this country.”
“You were born here sensei?” inquired Shane as he shouldered his red duffle bag.
“Yes, and lived her for the first ten years of my life before my parents immigrated us to America. And then I decided to join the Wind Ninja Academy, and thus became the head after ages of training.” Said Sensei. “Myself, and Kiya.”
Tori winced at the mention of Lothor. “Well at least he’s gone now.”
In the ruins of Mesogog’s lair, a black leather covered hand exploded out of the rubble, followed by the rest of Lothor. “I am going to KILL that dinosaur if the Dino Rangers haven’t done it yet!”
“My lord, we have visitors,” said Ji as the small contingent of casually dressed Rangers stepped into the room, many of them looking around in awe at the peaceful looking household.
Takeru nodded and he turned to the others with his usual stoic look. “Welcome Rangers of America. I am Shiba Takeru.”
“A pleasure to meet the head of the Shiba Clan, Takeru-tono,” said Sensei, bowing. “These are fellow masters of the Wind Ninja Academy. Tori, Shane and Dustin. Along with my son, Cam who is also a master of the Samurai.”
Ryuunosuke looked very interested at that. “A samurai? Among ninja?”
“Yes, my mother was Samurai, and I was trained in her ways,” said Cam.
Dustin leaned over and whispered, “Hey Tori, I don’t speak a word of Japanese but why can I understand them?”
“You didn’t read the notes on our new morphers?” inquired Tori softly. “The Power acts as a universal translator.”
“Oh. Dude that is so sweet. You think I could get a date then?” Tori elbowed him.
“Focus,” hissed Shane.
“Sorry to have dragged your family into this sir,” said Chrono as he and Yuuno met up with the Nakajimas in their hotel room. “I’ve spoken to the operator of the transport beam and apparently it knocked off course when hitting a snarl in the morphin grid.”
“It’s quite alright, Subaru and Ginga love it here,” smiled Genya. “And Japan was on our To Visit List while on vacation here.”
“We’ll be meeting up with the Shinkengers and Ninja Storm once they get everything arranged,” said Yuuno. “We’ve been planning on expanding the new project to these shores pretty soon at least.”
“Ah yes, the new Space Patrol Delta program,” said Genya, nodding. “How is that working out for you?”
“It’s raising he, er, heck at least,” laughed Yuuno, censoring himself around the smaller children. “Ever see a Starlight Breaker being forced into a zord finishing move? It’s GLORIOUS.”
“You’re just jealous that you don’t get to drive a zord yet,” ribbed Chrono.
It had been long in coming. Ryuunousuke, eager to speak with Cam about his sword style had challenged him to a spar. It soon followed with the pair facing off with wooden bokotou in the training yard of the Shiba compound.
“Fight to first contact,” said Kotoha, acting as judge. “Both sides ready?” A nod. “Begin!”
The pair passed each other. And Ryuunousuke slumped to the ground, holding his side. “Finish!” exclaimed Kotoha as Cam made a sheathing motion.
“That was… so fast,” breathed Chiaki in surprise. “How…?”
“Oh I see,” said Genta, having come out of nowhere, startling many. “He uses an ida style, but more than that. Take-chan.”
Takeru nodded. “He’s more experienced than Ryuunousuke by years. And an active Ranger since 2003. We’ve only been active for a few months by far, even with Genta with us.”
Ryuunousuke got up and bowed politely to Cam. “Cam-san, thank you for the amazing match. I am both humbled and awed by your skill!”
Cam rubbed his head. “It was nothing. It’s just a thing I do…”
“Aw don’t feel so modest Cam,” laughed Shane, slapping his fellow master on the shoulder. “Cam’s been training since he can walk like you have. But being a Ranger really ups your awesome level.”
“But we aren’t Rangers,” said Mako, interrupting. “We are Shinkenger.”
“You are still cut from the same cloth,” said Sensei with a calm smile. “We may be separated by race, class and heritage, but in the end we are still defenders of the world.”
“It seems we all still have things to learn,” chuckled Ji. “Rangers and Shinkenger alike.”
“Um, Tommy?”
Tommy looked up with a popsicle stick in his mouth. “What’s up Hayley?”
“I don’t mean to be a bearer of bad news, but I just detected a familiar energy signature coming from the island.” Said Hayley.
“Island as in…” Tommy went to the phone and dialed a number. “Anton, I know you’re there,” he said when a seeming automated reply came up.
“Of course I am,” said Anton as he swapped out of the automated reply. “What’s wrong Tommy?”
“Hayley’s picking up a energy signature coming from your island.” He turned to Hayley, got a reply and added, “It’s apparently really familiar but not dinosaur dna. Like a flow of energy from the Abyss of Evil. Anything you want to tell us?”
“… damn. I knew I forgot something,” said Anton with a hint of frustration in his voice. “When I was Mesogog, I shrunk Lothor down and stuck him in stasis.”
“And you forgot to tell us?! Hayley, where’s he headed?”
“Japan. Guess who’s there by the way,” said Hayley.
You could see Anton wince. “Elsa prepare the supersonic jet!” he called out on his end. “Tommy, gather your reinforcements. I’ll call the Thunder Rangers.”
“Right. Any suggestions on Rangers?”
“Max limit of three Red Rangers,” said Anton before hanging up.
“A 454,” said Ji, reading off the stick location as kuroko appeared and held up a map of Japan. “Akihabara?”
“Maybe they wanted to go shopping,” chuckled Shane.
“Dude, maybe for action figures!” exclaimed Dustin. “I saw these really cool ones on ebay from Final Fantasy…”
“Focus Dustin,” said Tori. “We’ll come along with you guys.”
“We appreciate the help,” nodded Ji. “My lord.”
Takeru nodded and gestured as they moved out.
“Samurai sentai authorized by providence! Shinkenger! Going forth!”
“Dude… that was the longest intro ever,” said Dustin, his expression breaking into a cheesy grin. “I like it!”
Smothering a grin cause Shane honestly liked it too, he raised his arm. “Well no time like the present then. Ready?”
“Ninja Storm!”
“Samurai Storm!”
“Ranger Form HA!”
Explosions of light erupted from the four. “Power of Air!”
“Power of Earth!”
“Power of Water!”
“Samurai Power!”
“NINJA STORM!” And the background erupted with a morph explosion, nearly hitting a few kuroko in the process and incinerating the background.
Shane winced. “Oh sorry dude, we’ll pay for that!”
“Wow… now I don’t feel so goofy with our traditions,” said Chiaki.
“I like it,” said Kotoha honestly. “It was so cool!”
“The banner…” gaped Ryuunousuke at the rapidly burning banner.
“Forget about it, let’s go,” said Takeru.
“Take-chan’s got lots anyhow,” reassured Genta.
Mako grinned under her helmet. This was one of those days wasn’t it?
“Ah Japan. The sun, the smells…” Lothor inhaled sharply and coughed. “Aw gross, how long has that fish been out in the sun?!”
Trudging through the streets, the eternal enemy of Ninja Storm followed his nose until he found himself a place to sit down. “Sushi seller! I thirst. Bring me food and drink and I won’t blow you away.”
“Yes sir.” Said Genta, feeling put out. Really, how many weird people would come to his stand anyhow?! First that Juuzou guy and then this guy…?!
After Lothor was fed and watered, he belched. “My compliments. I haven’t had sushi like that since I moved from this place as a kid.”
“You used to live here sir?” inquired Genta, having found Lothor something of a polite man as long as you didn’t threaten or look at him funny. DaiGoyou still found him weird.
“Sure I did! I’m Japanese after all.”
Genta seriously doubted that, but if he only lived here for so long, he wouldn’t have an accent. Right?
“More visitors?” inquired Chiaki as Ji lead the new people in.
“Sorry to intrude, but this was an emergency,” said Tommy. “I’m Dr. Tommy Oliver, Red Zeo Ranger. These are my companions. Kimberly Hart, Pink Morphin…”
Kim nodded at them politely. “Taylor Earhardt, Yellow Wild Force…”
“Pleasure to meet you all.” Said Taylor.
“Rocky DeSantos, Blue Zeo,” Rocky raised a hand in greeting. “And the Thunder Rangers, Hunter and Blake Bradley, Crimson Thunder and Navy Thunder.”
The pair of ninja bowed politely. Kotoha bowed back.
“Oh hey Dr. O, what’s up?” inquired Dustin. “Dude, Hunter, Blake!”
“Dude!” The trio shared brofists and handshakes with the others.
“Lothor’s back,” said Tommy, making the others expressions fall. “Anton said he didn’t get rid of him back during the Mesogog days.”
“Oh dude, not cool.” Said Shane.
“Who or what is Lothor?” inquired Ji.
“Lothor is a ninja who was banished to space and came back wielding the dark energies of our profession,” said Sensei, his expression thoughtful. “But what could he be doing in Japan?”
“We have a guess. He’s going to open the Abyss of Evil here in Japan. It has no paranormal defense against something like that.” said Taylor.
“And you do not want one of those opened up here,” said Kim. “It’s really bad news.”
Silence. And Ryuunousuke asked, “What exactly is an Abyss of Evil?”
“Subaru? Subaruuuu!” Ginga pouted. “Mou, where did she go…?”
The pair had been playing in the park when the little girl had wandered off. Frowning, she searched around until she came across a man dressed in black. He looked tall and menacing, with a full mask with holes for his eyes and mouth with small horns adorning it. But in his lap, he was talking with Subaru as she munched on takoyaki.
“You see little one, the trick to eating takoyaki is making a o with your mouth,” instructed Lothor. “and letting the heat puff out with each munch.” And he demonstrated with an octopus ball. “See?”
“Mm!” And Subaru copied his actions and gleefully ate her takoyaki. “It’s so yummy!”
“Yes, it’s one of the treats I sorely missed from this place.”
“You haven’t lived here long Ojiisan?” inquired Subaru and Ginga giggled just a little bit, watching the scary looking man play with her little sister.
“Not since I was little. I had bigger things to get to! And really, there isn’t much I could do to settle down. I have family, but they’re all weirdoes.” Said Lothor.
“I think Ojiisan’s family would be nice,” said Subaru honestly.
“You’d think that, but my own nephew stuck me in a hole in the ground about three or four years ago.” Said Lothor with a shake of his head. “He would have made a fine member of my organization.”
“That’s not very nice,” said Subaru with a pout. “Family shouldn’t put each other in the ground. If I see him, I’ll give him a good kick!”
“Aim for the shins.”
“Um, excuse me Ojiisan,” said Ginga, coming out of hiding. “That’s my sister.”
“Oh, so it is,” said Lothor. “You can have her back.”
“Gin-nee, I wanna say with Ojiisan,” said Subaru. “He’s nice.”
“He’s scary though,” said Ginga honestly and Lothor laughed at that. “Well you wear that mask and gloves and jacket!”
“Don’t look so surprised little one, I am scary. I’m the meanest Space Ninja in the cosmos.” Boasted Lothor.
“Ninja are cool though,” said Subaru, blinking wide eyes at him. “I wanna be a ninja!”
“I thought you wanted to be like mother?” inquired Ginga.
“Iie. I can be both! Space Ninja and like Okaasan!” exclaimed Subaru with a shake of her head.
“The kid has ambition I’ll give her that,” said Lothor with a grin. “Reminds me of myself at her age! Of course at my age I was already dipping into the dark arts.”
“See? He’s scary. And he’s probably a villain too,” pouted Ginga.
“Nuh uh,” disagreed Subaru and the girls degenerated into a Nuh Uh/Uh Huh argument.
“Told you he’s evil,” said Ginga as Lothor opened the Abyss of Evil.
“Naw, he’s just misunderstood,” said Subaru with that child-like assurance.
“Um, sir, are you adopting again?” inquired Zurgane as he looked at the two little children standing there at the entrance of the Abyss of Evil.
“No Zurgane, just teaching them a few things. Besides, they’re much more eager to help than my REAL nieces.” Replied Lothor. “Good to have you back General!”
“Hold it right there!” exclaimed Cam who came upon them first with Genya and Quint following behind.
“Well well if it isn’t my nephew. Pretty far out this time, wouldn’t you agree?” said Lothor cordially.
“Subaru, Ginga, get away from him! He’s a bad man!” exclaimed Quint in horror.
“Don’t worry your pretty head about it madam, I just treated them to a sight s’all.”
“And takoyaki!” added Subaru happily as she walked over to Cam and kicked him in the shin.
Cam leaped in pain. “OW! What was that for?!”
“For being a meanie!” Subaru pouted as Ginga stifled a giggle. “You put him in a hole!”
“Uh… sorry?”
“Never ever do that again,” said Subaru in the sternest voice possible.
Genya smothered a grin. That was his little girl alright. Fearless even in the face of impending doom.
“I really have to do this, it’s tradition and all,” said Lothor. “Madam you might want to get the kids to step back a little. I don’t make it a policy to harm innocent civilians.”
“Oh sure, when did that ever stop you?” snorted Cam as the Samurai Amulet expanded. “Ninja Storm Ranger Form Ha!”
In a blast of light, Cam drew his sword. “Green Samurai Ranger!”
“Oh you’ll probably have to do a little better than that dear nephew,” said Lothor as he cracked his knuckles and neck while the Mid-Childan residents on vacation drew back. “Bust out your Super Samurai Mode, will ya? I’ve got a fight itch to scratch!”
Cam had to hand it to Lothor, he sure knew how to push his buttons. “Super Samurai Mode!”
“Now we’re talking!” chortled Lothor as he rushed into battle, a platoon of Kelzaks appearing behind him.
“Wow. I don’t think I’ve seen this many enemies since the Abyss of Evil opened up the first time,” said Shane.
Dustin however was looking at the banners, newly replaced and sporting all of their team logos mushed together. “Dude, any more black on white and it’ll look like a panda!”
Tommy smothered his grin. “Alright let’s get it done.”
“Will you people hurry it up?” snarked Lothor. “And you, Shinkenger people! Follow the Rangers lead! I don’t have all day. I’m missing my nap.”
Takeru understandably looked put out as Sensei shrugged apologetically. “READY!” yelled Tommy and he was answered by a chorus of stances.
“Shodophone! Ippitsu Shojo!”
“Ikkan Kenjo!”
“It’s Morphin Time!”
“Wild Access!”
“Setup Cartridge! SPD Emergency!”
“Ninja Storm!”
“Thunder Storm!”
“Samurai Storm!”
“Ranger Form!”
“HA!” And in a shower of light, Ranger armor formed as energy built.
“ShinkenRed!”
“Blue!”
“Pink!”
“Green!”
“Yellow!”
“Gold!”
“Shinkenger Going Forth!” And the Kuroko scrambled out of the way as the force of their morph erupted behind them.
“Mighty Morphin Power Ranger!” yelled Kimberly.
“Red Zeo Ranger!” added Tommy.
“Blue Zeo Ranger!” finished Rocky.
“POWER RANGERS!” And an explosion erupted out from behind them as well, the force of years of build up fountaining outwards.
“Spirit of the Eagle! Yellow Wild Force Ranger!” called out Taylor.
“Riot 1 SPD Red Ranger!” added Yuuno.
“Riot Enforcer SPD Ranger!” finished Chrono, spinning his staff around.
“Power of Air!”
“Power of Earth!”
“Power of Water!”
“Crimson Thunder!”
“Navy Thunder!”
“Samurai Power!”
“NINJA STORM!” And kuroko scrambled again as the entire background caught fire again in the explosion.
Lothor clapped. “THERE! Now that’s theatrics! I like it! I like it so much I just gotta do it again and again. GET THEM!”
And his army surged forward.
“Dude, sorry about all of those banners were blew up,” said Dustin as he shook hands with Takeru. “But I guess your suits don’t energy runoff.”
“We’d have gone through too many banners that way,” said Takeru with a little smile. “Now that Lothor is in custody, what will you do?”
“The Nakajimas have volunteered to “rehabilitate” him,” said Sensei, much to the wide smirks of the assembled people. “It seems that Subaru regards him as an uncle. And in truth there is a little bit of truth to that, as the Wantanabe clan once had people who moved to Mid-childa. The relation is distant enough, but perhaps Kiya will regain his old self.”
“I’m surprised Lothor even agreed to it,” said Cam. “But then again, try explaining Marah and Kapri.”
“Dude, that’s worrisome. I mean, let Lothor live with a couple of kids and a family?” said Shane. “On Mid-childa?”
“I’m certain Quint can keep them in line,” said Yuuno in a placating manner. “At least then we can deal with explaining his presence to Mid-childa.”
“He’s heavily monitored and I’ve assigned some of my own people to the case,” said Yuuno.
“So if you guys ever need help, just call.” Said Tommy. “And oh, this is for you.”
He handed Takeru a small envelope. “it’s not much, but please take it.”
“Such a weird few days,” said Chiaki, groaning as he sat down.
“Yes, but those Rangers… I see now why everyone believes they are legends.” Said Kotoha.
“More like legendary,” said Ryuunosuke, clearly impressed with many of them. “It is too bad we won’t see them for a while. Tono… did you read the message?”
“Ah. Yes.” Takeru nodded and Mako tilted her head as he handed it to her.
“To the Shinkenger. We are pleased to bestow the title of Ranger upon you for your heroic deeds. We know without a doubt that you will become a legend in your own right. Sincerely...” She blinked as she turned the card around which was just scrawled with dozens of names.
“That’s… impressive,” said Genta, for one stunned nearly to speechlessness.
“They… consider us Rangers,” said Kotoha in awe. “Everyone does. Look, there’s Shane-san’s name…”
“And Tommy’s…”
“And this is Cam’s…”
Takeru smiled just slightly before Ji caught him doing so and he smothered his expression.
Just then, the bells rang and Ji went over. “D 42. Ginza. Tono.”
“Ji.” Ji stopped for a moment as Takeru got up. “Tell the kuroko to leave the banner.”
Ji smothered a grin. “Of course tono.”