The Mark of the Silver Ranger – Shadow Ranger's Library

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DISCLAIMER: As always, all the Rangers and their family and monsters and powers belonged to the rather twisted mind of Saban. I own nothing in this work, well, except for Anya, of course. So there.

TIMELINE: Power Chamber was destroyed. The Zeo Crystals were stolen. Billy can't make up his mind. And the Rangers are powerless. Got that?

<h3><center>The Mark of the Silver Ranger By Raye</center></h3>

The other Rangers cleared the Power Chamber as Adam tried to fix the console. Kat and Tanya are assembling Alpha's body which is scattering all over the place in pieces while Tommy and Rocky are moving the heavy pillars from the other consoles so Adam could take a good look at it. They all work in silence as each still trying to recover from the recent incident. It's been three days now but they aren't making any progress as to how to solve their problem.

Tommy wiped the sweat that is rolling down his forehead. Suddenly, he heard a quiet sob. He turned and saw Kat, fingering a part he identified as Alpha's hand and looking around the ruins of once proudly stood Power Chamber. He walked to her and knelt beside her.

"Hey," he said, gently. "We'll pull through. We've gotten ourselves into a lot worse situation than this. And we did managed to get through them."

Kat sniffed. "I know but what if we can't get through this one. I mean we've been lucky countless of time but what if luck isn't with us anymore. What if this is really the end of it all?"

Tommy swept her into his arms. "We'll pull through. I'll make sure of it," he promised.

Suddenly Adam walked out of the room. After exchanging a brief look with Tommy, Rocky followed Adam. A few seconds later, Tommy and Kat continued their work. As Tommy was checking Alpha's remains, Rocky's head appeared at the entrance.

"Uh, Tommy. Adam wants to talk to you."

Tommy glanced at Kat and Tanya, who is looking at him, worriedly. Inhaling, he walked out of the room, leaving Rocky to tend the girls. He saw Adam, leaning against the wall at the far end of the corridor.

"What is it, Adam?" he asked, concerned.

Adam's eyes are closed, trying to hide the feeling of hopelessness from showing in his eyes. He doesn't want the girls to see the beaten look on his face. For a moment he was silence. Then he looked up and met Tommy's steady gaze.

"It's hopeless, Tommy. I can't get the console to operate much less than the whole Power Chamber," he answered, nearly in tears.

Tommy hadn't been ready to hear that. "Don't tell me you're giving up too," he groaned. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"God, Adam can't give up now. He's the only one who knows enough about the Power Chamber,' he thought.

"I have given up, Tommy," he hissed. "It's gonna take an expert to get this place going again and I'm no expert."

"Then get one," Tommy said exasperatedly.

"How? The only expert still moving is Billy and he's not here."

That brought silence to the two of them. From the corner of his eyes, Tommy saw that Rocky and the girls have already overheard their conversation. Now, a beaten look painted all over their faces. At that moment, Tommy detected the same feeling he once had when he lost his Green Power. A feeling of defeat. Lost in own thoughts, Tommy leaned against the wall and slid to the floor. There he buried his head into his arms.

"I love it! I love it," King Mondo said, gleefully as he watched the former Red Ranger finally admit defeat. Then he turned to his son, who is holding the Zeo Crystals. "I got to congratulate you, my son. Your idea to teleport the Zeo Crystals here was excellent. Now, nothing can help those Rangers. They're just a bunch of crybabies now."

"All will go on well if that annoying Billy prolonged his stay on Aquitar," Klank added, reminding them of the small threat. That put a damper on the King's happy mood. He gave Klank a dirty look.

"You have to bring that kid up, don't you?"

Queen Mechina consoled her husband. "Don't worry, my dear. Billy will never know what happened. When he does, it'll be too late."

"Yes, my queen. You always have a way to make things better for me. Come on, let's celebrate our victory."

Billy watched the fishes swimming above him. He had to admit that the Aquitians had built a very beautiful underwater city. He always wondered if he could apply the same principles the Aquitians used to build one on Earth and solve Earth's overpopulation problem. But so far, he knew that Earth has a long way to go to achieve what the Aquitians had achieved under the ocean.

"You guys are so lucky," he said softly to the fishes that are swimming freely and serenely. "You could just swim around without having to worry yourself about where to go as long as there is water."

Billy sighed. Although the war is well over, he still feels very tired. And the past few days hadn't helped either. He couldn't sleep, he don't feel like eating. In fact, he didn't feel like doing anything except watching his comet's progress. And think.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"What should I do?' he thought. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"I'm not needed here anymore.'

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"And if I return to Earth, will they accept me as one of them? As an equal, not some friend that needed protection.' He exhaled. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"What am I saying? What can I do on Earth? School is over for me. And I don't think that I'm needed at the Power Chamber or they would've called me every time they need my help with the zords and other technical stuff. Besides, Adam is a fast learner.'

He winced. "And I don't think I can face them anymore. Not after all the lies I told them," he said, referring to the lies he had told them before he left Earth.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"You blew it, Billy. You came here to be with the girl you never even have an interest in and if go back now, they would surely want to know the whole story,' he scolded himself.

Then he turned to another thought. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"But I can't stay here forever. My work here is finished. I had come here to help the Aquitians and now that the war is over, I don't think I'm needed here�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ although they are trying really hard to make me stay.'

Billy let himself lost in his thoughts without knowing that someone is watching him. She, Anya, had been watching Billy ever since their little talk. She knows that Billy is suffering inside and he is beating himself hard to make a fair decision.

And she also knew why it is so hard for Billy to return to Earth. Cestro told her when Billy had arrived to begin his treatment at the Eternal Falls, he had been so weak and so heart-broken. Cestro said that Billy is hurt because he couldn't accept the Gold Power and he was so weak because he had started to age rapidly. Then, he and Cestria managed to return Billy's youth but they failed to mend his hurting feelings.

Anya also found out that Billy had lied to his friends back home. According to Cestria, Billy had contacted her before he left Earth and told her his decision to stay on Aquitar. Since they have been close friends, Billy told her everything and Cestria, knowing that he needed time away from his friends, agreed to go along his plans about him living with the girl he loved.

When Anya heard it, she knew that she has to help Billy forgive himself and help him make his decision fairly.

Suddenly a hand landed on her shoulder. Anya jumped and turned only to see Cestria

"How is he doing?" asked Cestria, knowing that Anya had been watching Billy for the past few days.

Anya shook her head. "Bad."

Cestria sighed. "Everybody is worried about him. He can't keep on going like this."

Anya looked at her sympathetically. "I know you're worried about him but we can't force him to make his decision now. All we can do is make him feels comfortable as we can."

"I know," Cestria said, softly. There was silence.

"Why don't you talk to him," Anya suggested. "I mean, you're the only one close to him here."

Cestria shook her head and smiled softly. "No. That wouldn't work. Billy would show his no-problem-at-all look. It is how he got away from the serious talk with his friends. He's good at masking his feelings. He's the kind of person who would rather hear a friend's problem instead of his."

"That I can see," Anya agreed.

Suddenly Cestria's lips trembled. "He's leaving, right?"

Anya put her hand on her shoulder. "I can't say anything, Cestria. We don't know what the future holds. But whatever his decision will be, we have to support it. For his own good."

Cestria nodded in understanding. "Thanks, Anya." She smiled, weakly. "Delphine wants to see us. She got something she wants to talk to us about."

"Let's go," said Anya, throwing Billy a last glance.

It has been four days since the bombing of the Power Chamber. The teenagers had managed to clear up the messy Power Chamber and now, with nothing to do, they felt very down. As usual they meet up at the Juice Bar but this time they sat in silence. Ernie, who had been watching them, was very concerned.

"Alright, boys and girls, what would you have for today?" he said cheerfully, trying to break the tension.

That did not work well enough. "I'm not hungry," was all Adam could say. The others exchanged glances and then looked down, grimly. Rocky threw Ernie an apologetic look and said. "I'll have a milkshake, Ernie." He didn't want to dismiss the older man's effort to lighten things up. Hearing Rocky's response, the others placed their orders too. Ernie nodded and went to his counter happily. Once again, the Rangers sat in silence.

"You know, guys. We're lucky that Mondo and Zedd didn't launch a single attack these past few days. Who knows what would happen if they do." Tanya said, trying to break the silence.

Kat looked at her. "What about tomorrow? And the day after?" she retorted bitterly. "Right now Mondo's probably still celebrating over our defeat." Her eyes started to water. Tommy reached for her hands, comforting her. Tanya shrunk back to her seat, discouraged.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Nice try, Tanya. But you're no Aisha. If she were here, she'll have a way to get us out of these seats and start running around just to get us distracted,' Rocky thought, remembering his optimistic childhood friend. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"I wonder what she's doing right now.'

"Hey, guys. Why are we moping around for?" Rocky said, trying to continue Tanya's effort. "The fight isn't over. We can still find a way to get the Zeo crystals back. We can't give up now."

Kat was about to retort when Ernie brought over their orders. When he saw Kat's tear-stricken face, he froze. "What's wrong, Kat?"

Kat choked back her sob. "Dust. It got into my eyes," she said, wiping her tears and smiled.

Ernie nodded, uncertain if that was the reason. But he knew better than to pursue the matter. So instead, he changed the subject. "I know something that could make you feel better. My new tropical pie!" he exclaimed and left in a hurry. The Rangers exchanged glances.

"You think he knew?" asked Kat.

Tommy shrugged. "You know Ernie. He could read teenagers like a book." He paused. "But I doubt Ernie knew that much."

A second later, Ernie returned with a delicious-looking pie. Rocky's mouth watered. "Gee, thanks Ernie. You really know how to make me feel better," he said, helping himself with a slice. The others looked on.

"Well, go on, it's on me," Ernie said to the others. They then surrendered and joined Rocky. Ernie left when he saw everyone helping themselves with his pie.

"Billy, you don't know what you're missing," Rocky said, taking another bite.

Suddenly, Adam choked on his drink. The others turned their attention to him, concerned. "Adam, are you alright?" asked Tanya, as Adam tried to recover. When he found his voice, his face was red.

"Sorry about that," he said, sheepishly. "But I'd just thought of something."

Kat brightened. "You mean you found a way to restore the Power Chamber?" she asked, hopefully. Adam blushed and nodded.

"Tell us, man," Tommy requested, getting quite interested.

Adam only said one word. "Billy."

"Billy?" Kat's face fell. "How can he help? He's not even here."

"But we can call him here," said Adam, not giving up. Rocky's eyes widened as he saw what Adam's getting at. "I agree. He's the only one who can help us now," he said, backing Adam up.

"Would he help us?" asked Tommy, uncertain. He doesn't want to impose another disappointment on Kat. He knew she couldn't take it any more.

"Of course he would. We're his friends," Adam answered, defensively.

"And besides, we have to call him up sooner or later, regarding his invalid diploma," Rocky added.

Tommy leaned forward. "Could you contact him? I mean, with the Power Chamber destroyed and all?" he asked, seriously. Adam just shrugged.

"All I need is a few components, which I could easily find in his lab. And with Mr. Cranston gone to Japan and all, I don't think we have trouble explaining what we're doing there. Besides, Billy rarely locked his lab."

Seeing the doubtful look on his friends' face, he continued. "Don't worry. Billy had once showed me how to build a long-range radio. It's how he first made contact with Bookala after the creature left."

"Bookala?" Kat and Tanya chorused, not recognizing the name.

Tommy looked at them. "Tell you two later." He jumped up. "Come on. Let's go and build that radio of yours."

Having a new hope, the Rangers dashed out of the Juice Bar together.

Cestria and Anya stepped into Delphine's quarter, only to see Cestro, Aurico, Tideus, Corcus and Delphine waiting patiently for them. As soon as they've settled down, all of them turned to Delphine.

The White Aquitian Ranger looked at each of them. "This meeting mainly concerns Billy. As you know, Billy has done a great deal for us and our planet," she began but everyone knows that she's really saying that Billy is leaving them.

"And I think we could at least award him with something equally valuable," she continued.

Anya raised her hand. "Why do you need me for? I have nothing to offer him," she said. Delphine smiled.

"It concerns you too, Anya."

"Me?" Anya was taken aback.

"Yes." Delphine nodded. "I require your consent."

"My consent?" Anya quoted while the others leaned forward to listen to Delphine's proposal. "What do you have in mind?"

Billy slumped on his bed. He picked up the photo of him and his friends at the airport. He stared at it for a moment, thinking how happy he looked at that time. And how happy the others looked. Jason, Trini and Zack were looking very excited as if they didn't mind leaving the team at all. Then he sat up and made his way to the balcony. He then shifted his gaze from the photo to the watery sight. He sighed and said to the photo. "Sorry, guys. I've made my decision," he said, sadly.

Then he placed the photo back on his table and lie on his bed. He knew it what the toughest decision but he felt pretty glad. And very tired. Billy let his mind drifted off as he began to dream.

He found himself drifting into space, so quiet, so serene and so free. He saw beautiful stars hanging randomly across the measureless universe. Then he turned and saw a comet, burning freely from eternity. Happy for the first time, he started to follow the comet, flying so fast, without limitations and without obstacles. Billy laughed and felt the freedom inside him. He felt as if he was part of the universe, part of the beautiful scenery.

Then, as he flew closer to the comet, he saw that something was inside it. And it was laughing with him. A laugh Billy found so innocent and so child-like that he lunged nearer. What he saw gave him an unconditional joy. A joy he had never felt before in his entire life.

The comet was really an angel. She was glowing more than the glowing of the sun and beautiful beyond compare though Billy couldn't see her face clearly. But she was smiling at him, beckoning that he should follow her. Billy wanted to ask her name and where is she from but instead the silent angel reached out her hand to him. Without fear, Billy took her hand as they sped across the universe, to one destination.

Then they stopped. Billy looked at the glowing angel, still trying to make out her features. But it seemed as if she is the only thing that he's not allowed to look at clearly. As if she is forbidden until the time is right. Billy longed to brush her long hair, which is flowing and glowing around her.

The apparition looked at him, serenely as they stared at each other. Then she broke his gaze and pointed at one direction. Billy followed where she is pointing and saw a beautiful turquoise ball, surrounded by endless white cotton. Then the angel let his hand go and drifted away.

Billy tried to stop her. To ask if they would meet again but nothing comes out from his mouth. Instead, he saw her nodded, as if hearing what he had meant to ask her, and flew off. Then, darkness replaced light as Billy felt a profound sorrow. He longed for her already. But as he stared back at the turquoise ball, he felt a tiny hope. Then, he looked at the wide space around him and made his way towards a destination, wanting to explore more.

Billy's eyes flew open. For the first time since he gave up being a Ranger, he felt at peace. He suddenly knew his decision. And he knew it is the right one.

"I better tell the others," he said to himself, jumping to his feat. He stepped out of his quarters, whistling.

"Eureka!" Adam exclaimed, showing the others what look like a ruined science project. Rocky decided to tease him on it.

"I think you mean voila," he corrected. "And are you sure that junk will work?"

Adam scowled. "I know it's not as good as Billy's�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦" Rocky gave him a look. Adam surrendered. "Alright, it doesn't look a bit like Billy's inventions at all. But what can I do? God doesn't give everybody the same imagination He gave Billy. And it's not my fault that Billy took his long-range radio apart because he needed the same components to repair the Pyramidas' communication system. Besides, I'm relying on my memory to build this�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ junk."

Tommy chuckled and raised his hands to stop them. "Never mind, Adam. Just as long as it could work like Billy's inventions," he said. Then he looked at it dubiously. "It could work, couldn't it?"

"One way to find out," said Adam, switching it on. The others crossed their fingers.

"I don't know about this, Cestria," said Anya as they made their way towards Billy's quarters.

Cestria looked at her. "I thought you agree with it. It's a great idea."

"No�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ I mean, yes. I think it's a great idea too. But will Billy agree to do it? What if he can't take another rejection? I mean, he was crushed over the Gold Power. What would happen if this one rejects him?"

"There's no reason why it should happen," said Cestria. "I mean, the Silver Power originated from Earth unlike the Triforian Gold Power."

"Even so, we never found out if Billy's body is rejecting all kind of Ranger powers." Anya turned to Cestria. "Has he ever tried to hold the Zeo Powers when he has the chance?"

Cestria titled her head to think back. "No."

"Exactly," Anya said. "And why didn't this Tommy or any of his Zeo Ranger friends offer him their crystal in exchange with the Gold Power? Billy's the only one with the negative protons, right?"

"Yes, as far as I am told."

"Then why didn't they make him the Red Zeo Ranger, or the Blue one or the Green one and let Tommy or Adam or Rocky take the Gold Power? Why called in a former Ranger who's suppose to be in Switzerlay or whatever the place is?" Anya argued.

"Switzerland," Cestria corrected her. "And I can't think of any reason why they didn't think of doing what you've just suggested."

"See? Maybe because they know that Billy can't take any powers," Anya said, exasperatedly.

A smile threatened to play at the corner of Cestria's lips. "You're beginning to sound like an Earthling. I never heard our kind argued like you just did."

For a moment Anya was taken aback by the change of topic. Then, she folded her arms, a gesture no other Aquitians ever did except those who are close with Billy. "Well, I don't see you sound that different either."

Then they started to giggle, which broke into a quiet laughter, another gesture they picked up from Billy. Several Aquitians turned to look at them, curiously. Controlling her laughter, Cestria sent them away. Anya drew a deep breath to stop laughing.

"We have to admit, Billy is a bad influence on us as we are to him," said Cestria, blushing a little.

Anya frowned. "I don't know. I think I can live with it."

"That's because you're only half Aquitian."

Then there was silence as they recalled the issue at hand. "Let's do it this way," said Cestria. "If what the prophecy said is true, then Billy is the one we're waiting for."

Anya let out a deep breath. "You're right. I think Billy is going to be thrilled when he hear about this."

"I'm sure he will."

They met Billy halfway. He was bedraggled and excited. His face was beaming and for the first time in days, the two girls saw him smiling.

"Billy!" Anya called out. "We got something to tell you."

He waved them off. "I got something to tell you too. I've finally made a decision." He paused. "I've decided to�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦" He was interrupted by someone, shouting his name. The three of them turned to see Tideus, running towards them.

"Billy! We received a distress transmission from Earth."

Billy, Cestria and Anya exchanged worried glances. Without saying a word, Billy sprinted towards the Aquitian Communication Center. The others followed him. Billy didn't stop until he reached the communication room. Delphine, Aurico, Corcus and Cestro are already there, waiting. They gave him a grim look as he turned to the big screen. He saw Adam, looking tired and worse for wear.

"Adam! What's going on?" he asked, anxiously.

Adam smiled mischievously. "Glad to see you too, Billy," he said. Billy had to smile at that.

"Sorry," he apologized. "What happen to you?" He looked Adam over, critically.

Adam raised his hand in defense. "Hey, you look even worse." Billy checked his tired and bedraggled reflection. Then he raised his bandaged hand.

"I'm making myself a hero here," he joked. Both of them chuckled as they heard Rocky groaned at the background.

Then Adam's face grew serious. "Billy, we've been attacked by Mondo. Everything's been destroyed." Billy's eyes widened.

"Everything?"

Adam nodded, grimly. "Power Chamber, Alpha, everything. We've lost contact with Zordon and Mondo has our Zeo Crystals." He swallowed. "And Alpha and the Power Chamber are beyond repair."

Billy almost dropped to the floor, hearing the bad news. His knees felt weak. "Are you guys alright?" he asked, concernedly.

"We're fine, for now," said Adam. "But we fear that we'll lose the next time Mondo decide to launch the final blow."

"Then you guys must not fight when he attack," Billy said, quickly. "Go somewhere or hide. Don't let Mondo capture you, any of you."

But Adam shook his head. "Billy, we have to stay and fight. As Power Rangers, we have to defend Earth. You of all people should know that."

"I'm not saying that you should give up like that," Billy argued. "I'm asking you to hide and live to fight another day."

Adam looked at him sadly. "And let innocent people die while we hide? No, we can't do that." He looked away, to the others Billy can't see. Then, he looked back at Billy. "We won't do that."

Billy felt his tears welled up. "But you'll lose. You could even die�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦"

"Father! Father! Klank has picked up something," Prince Sprocket shouted. King Mondo rushed to his side.

"What is it, Klank?"

"It seemed the Rangers are sending a distress transmission to outer space."

King Mondo's eyes flared as realization hit him. "Billy! They are trying to get to that annoying former Blue Ranger. Block that transmission, Klank!" he ordered. Klank punched a few buttons and then turned to his master.

"It's a success, your majesty. The Rangers' transmission is blocked."

King Mondo paced across the throne room, obviously displeased. "I didn't launch a single attack this past few days and the Rangers decided to meddle with my plans. Is this how they repay me? I show them." He turned to his son. "Sprocket, prepare to send a troop of cogs on Earth. Make a lot of damage as you can."

"No!" Billy cried as the screen goes blank. Nothing could be heard except static. Billy punched a few buttons to regain contact but failed. That didn't stop him. His friends need him. Adam was in the middle of asking him something. Billy let his fingers danced across the console, panting.

"No! No!" he repeatedly said. His alien friends began to get worried. Finally, Cestro stepped forward and stopped him.

"Billy, you must calm down. It'll only worsen the situation and we won't be able to help your friends."

Billy ran his fingers through his darkening sandy hair. He's still fuming. "I got to go back, guys," he said to the Aquitian Rangers. "They need me."

Delphine, Cestria and Anya exchanged glances. Then Delphine stepped out. "You can't go now," she said. "At least not until the Power Transfer."

Billy blinked in confusion. "Power Transfer?"

"Yes," said Anya. "It was all Delphine's idea. We want to give you a thank you present and we decided that you deserve the ancient Power of Silver."

"Ancient Power of Silver," Billy quoted. "But won't my body reject it like it rejected the Gold Power?"

Anya shook her head. "You won't, Billy. Because unlike the Gold Power, this power originated from an Earth Ranger."

"Earth Ranger?"

"Yes. It was many, many years ago," Cestria began, gesturing Billy towards a seat. "You are not our first contact with Earth. A very long time ago, Aquitar was attacked by a ruthless being named Namatak. Our Rangers were losing the battle so they sent a distress call throughout the universe. Only one responded to our call. Zordon and his first line of Earth Rangers."

She paused. "At the time, Zordon had the finest Rangers in the galaxy and the greatest of all were the Gold and the Silver Earth Rangers. The Gold Earth Ranger was the leader and the Silver Earth Ranger was her second-in-command."

"Wait a minute," Billy interrupted. "The Gold Ranger was a girl?"

Cestria nodded. "Yes, she's a girl and a great leader. She had lead the ancient Earth Rangers towards many victories including our battle with Namatak."

"Sadly, the Silver Earth Ranger had just lost his family due to a dangerous disease. After the battle against Namatak is over, he decided to stay on Aquitar. He, eventually, fell in love with a beautiful Aquitian girl and married her. They lived happily since." She paused. "Before he died, he had said that the time will come when a great Earth Ranger, with pure of heart and soul, will come and live among us. He made us promise to give the Ranger his Silver Power, as the Silver Power came from Earth and it must be returned to serve Earth."

Cestria stopped while Delphine took over. "We keep the Silver Power at the very heart of the Sacred Palace and placed a chosen guardian."

"Wait a minute," Billy interrupted. "Whatever happen to his wife?"

Delphine smiled at Billy's curiosity. "His wife was the guardian. She guard the Sacred Palace as their daughter after her and their granddaughter."

Billy turned to Anya. "Does this mean�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦"

"Yes, I'm their great, great, great, great granddaughter. I'm part human," Anya confirmed.

"That explains why you look slightly different from the other Aquitians," said Billy, realization finally hit him.

Anya took his hands. "You're right." She paused. "Billy, from the day you have arrived here, you have shown us that you are the one my ancestor meant. You, like him, had helped us won a war even without powers. That's why you deserve the Silver Power."

Billy was stunned. He had been praying hard to be given another chance to be a Ranger again. But to hold such a great power�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ Then, remembering his friends back home, he recovered.

"I would be mostly honored to accept it."

"No, we would be mostly honored to present it to you," said Anya.

When Billy arrived at the Sacred Palace, he was surprised at how many Aquitians turned up for the ceremony. It seemed as if the whole population of Aquitians has gathered and now waiting patiently for the ceremony to begin. But very deep in their heart, they are eager to see the most special event of their lifetime. They all have been waiting for this a long time ago, way before they even existed, to see the great Power of Silver to be passed on to the mysterious Ranger and now the time has finally come.

Once again, Billy found himself in the center of attention and he's feeling very nervous. His mind keep playing Adam's transmission and the welfare of his friends plus what would happen if he wasn't the right Ranger for the Silver Power. Would he be able to take another rejection?

Suddenly Anya appeared in white. She then addressed to the countless Aquitians before her. "My fellow Aquitians, today we will witness a long awaited event of our lives."

"More than a hundred years ago, an Earth Ranger had come and rescued us in time of great need." Anya began. "He also had us promised to keep the great Silver Power of Earth and to give it to only one person, the Earth warrior who will come to Aquitar in the distant future and help us in another time of great need."

She paused and looked at all the happy faces of the Aquitians around her. "After waiting for such a long time, the time has come. The Great Warrior of Earth is here. At last, the prophecy is fulfilled." She glanced at Billy. "Today, our friend and savior Billy will take the Silver Power and thus bring the Silver Legacy to life once more."

The whole planet roared with cheers. All of the Aquitians agreed that Billy deserves the Silver Power. Delphine, who is standing next to Billy, saw his face reddened. She knew that the attention is too much for him.

Anya turned. "Billy, please step forward and receive the power that is rightly yours."

Billy stepped forward, face-to-face with her. She held out a crystal, shining so bright that it look new, not ancient years old. Billy was reaching out when suddenly he hesitated.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"What if it won't accept me? What if the Aquitians are wrong? That I'm not the rightful owner?' Doubts played across his mind.

Anya gave him a tender smile. "Go ahead, Billy. It's calling for you," she said softly. Billy plucked up his courage deep inside and touched the crystal. He shut his eyes, waiting for something to happen.

But nothing happen. The Silver crystal still was glowing as before. The crowd began to murmur as Billy stared at the crystal, disbelief. Only Anya has her eyes closed, as if in stasis.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"No! It can't be,' Billy thought, desperately. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"My friends need me. They need me as the Silver Ranger to protect them from Mondo!' He shook his head, unable to accept the fact. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"I need it.'

At the corner of his eyes, he saw Cestria approaching him, obviously wanting to comfort him. But Billy let himself lost in his thought. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"No! I must have the Silver Power. I need it. It's rightfully mine. I am the Great Warrior that the former Silver Ranger had talked about. I am the Silver Ranger!'

As soon as he said that, there was a bright light, brighter than the sun, swallowing him and Anya. Cestria was forced to back out, not able to withstand the sudden brightness. Delphine, Aurico and the rest of the Aquitians were forced to shield their eyes.

When things went back to normal, they turned only to see Anya, still on the spot she was standing but in Billy's place stood the legendary hero of Aquitar, wearing a shining silver suit. Billy looked at himself in confusion, not able to say a thing, not believing that it actually happened. When his eyes met Anya's, he heard a soft voice whispered to his ears.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Never have doubt.'

Then he saw her smiled and turned to her people. "Behold! The Silver Ranger."

Billy took off his helmet. The Aquitians cheered once more. Blushing, Billy waved at them. Deep inside his heart, he heard a long howl of a wolf.

Cestro punched a few buttons on the console. Then he turned to Billy. "Are you ready to teleport?" Billy nodded.

Aurico stepped forward and offered his hand. "Good luck, Billy. Be sure to call us when you need our help." Billy shook his hands, surprised that he used a human gesture to wish him luck. Tideus and Corcus nodded and used an Aquitian gesture of good luck.

"Thanks, guys." Then he turned to Delphine. She, reluctantly, swept him into a big hug. Billy was too surprised to hug her back.

"Good luck, Billy," said Delphine. "Though we've only known each other for a short time, I feel as if you're my younger brother. If only we have meet a long time ago." To Billy's surprise, tears rolled down her cheek. "Be careful, you hear?"

Billy recovered and smiled. He wiped her tears. "I will, Delphine. You're like my sister too. Thanks for being there for me when I need companion the most." Then he heard a sob. He turned as Cestria ran into his arms. They held each other for a while. Then Cestria met his eyes.

"Although we're not lovers, I feel like I'm losing a best friend," she whispered.

"You won't lose me, Cestria. We're still best friends. I'll be careful, okay?" he said, gently.

Cestria frowned. "You are coming back, aren't you?" Billy looked away. "It's okay, think some more. I'll be waiting for your decision," Cestria continued before Billy could say a thing.

Then they parted. Billy looked at Anya who put her arms around him. "Bring the Silver Legacy alive again, okay?"

"I promise."

Then Cestro took his hand and shook it. "Good luck, Billy. I wish we could leave Aquitar and help you fight your foe."

"Me too," said Billy. "But you can't leave Aquitar just yet. The remnant of the Hydro Contaminators is watching the right moment to take revenge on you. Besides, you have a lot of work to do in getting things together."

"Even so, call us when you need us, alright?"

Billy nodded and without a word, he signaled Cestro to teleport him. Inhaling, Cestro pushed the teleport button and Billy vanished in a streak of silver light.

"Ahh�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦!" Rocky howled as he hit the ground. He tried to get up but his strength is gone. Adam threw another punch at his cog and leapt to help Rocky.

"Rocky! Are you alright?"

Rocky couldn't answer him. He was in too much pain. His forehead is cut pretty badly and his face swollen black and blue. Adam shouted for Tommy.

"Tommy! Rocky's down. He's hurt pretty bad."

Tommy turned to take a look on his fallen friend. Then he turned his attention towards Katherine who is having trouble with her cogs and Tanya, who is already too tired to attack. Suddenly, he heard a shriek and saw Kat being hurtled towards Adam. She landed on Adam and didn't move.

"Kat! Adam!" he shouted and ran towards them. Adam, moaning in pain, checked Kat over.

"She's out. We can't take this anymore," he reported. Then a cog lashed a kick that connected his chin. He grunted in pain.

Tommy looked on in fury. His anger started to boil up and so was his fear of defeat. Then, he gave the cog a hard punch, sending it flying a couple of yards away. He turned to Tanya.

"Tanya! Help Adam get the others out of here. I'll hold them off," he ordered. Tanya looked at him, doubtfully.

"What about you? You can't hold them off by yourself."

Tommy tried to control his anger. "Just go!" Hesitantly, Tanya ran towards Adam and her fallen comrades. After seeing his friends gone, Tommy quickly turned his attention towards the advancing cogs.

"Come on, metal brain. Let's rock," he hissed as they started to attack him. It didn't take a minute to convince Tommy that he is no match for the cogs this time. His anger rule his emotion as he furiously defended himself but soon the anger burned away to be replaced by fear. He was about to receive a knock out blow when a streak of silver smashed into the cogs. The cogs turned their attention towards their attacker. Gasping for air, Tommy looked up only to see a figure in silver, battling against the cogs. He was fast and good. His skills were well developed and yet his fighting technique is familiar to Tommy. As if Tommy had seen someone from the past fight like that.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Is he a Ranger too?' Tommy wondered, seeing the silver figure's amazing power. It didn't take long to convince the cogs that they should retreat. Then the silver clad person quickly went to Tommy's side and offered a hand.

Tommy took it. "Wow! That was good," he said, brushing himself. Sensing the person's concern gesture, Tommy held out his hands. "Yes, I'm alright."

The Silver Ranger relaxed. Tommy could sense that he is very concern about him. Then, Tommy asked the question he had been dying to ask.

"Who are you? Are you one of us?" But before he could finish asking, the silver figure vanished into a streak of silver light. Then Adam and Tanya joined him. "Who was that?" they asked.

"You saw him?"

Adam nodded. "Yeah, after we brought Kat and Rocky to safety, we doubled back to help you, only to see him fighting."

Tommy looked at them, thoughtfully. "I don't know who he is but I do know that we will see him again." Then he changed the subject. "How's Rocky and Kat doing?"

"Rocky's fine but tired. Kat has just regained consciousness," Adam reported.

"Then let's go back to the Power Chamber. We need to discuss our next move."

But the Power Chamber was not like the place they left before. When the tired Rangers entered, it was bright with lights and a dark blond haired guy was hunching over a console. When he heard them, he turned and gave them a familiar and yet a smile they have always missed.

"Billy!" Kat cried out and ran into his arms. Then Rocky joined them in a spinning hug.

"Billy's back! Billy's back!" he yelled, repeatedly. Then the three of them parted. Tommy saw Billy blushed from the sudden attention.

Kat and Tanya each planted a kiss on his cheeks. "Oh, we miss you so much," they said. Then Tommy and Adam shook his hand.

"Welcome back, buddy," said Tommy.

Billy felt tears stung his eyes. He laughed to hide his true feelings. "I miss you guys too," he said. He looked at Rocky who's jumping up and down, still yelling �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Billy's back! Billy's back.'

"I see things hasn't change too much."

Adam dismissed Rocky. "Don't mind him. He still have those wires loose." Billy laughed.

Tommy stepped back, checking his old friend out. Despite of his tired look and the bandaged hand, Billy looked better than he used to. His body is tougher and more muscular and he seemed a little taller. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"He must have worked out on Aquitar,' he thought as the others bombarded Billy with questions. Laughing, Billy held out his hands.

"Whoa, one question at a time, guys," he said, good-naturedly. "Yes, the Alien Rangers are fine. Yes, I have a pleasant stay on Aquitar."

Kat interrupted. "What about Cestria? How are you getting along?" Tommy saw Billy hesitated at that.

"She's�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ uh�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ fine. We�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ ah�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ got along great," he answered, not meeting Kat's gaze. Tommy then decided to change the subject.

"How did you get the lights on? I thought all powers are dead," he asked, looking around the Power Chamber.

Billy frowned. "I've just switched on the emergency generator." He looked at them. "Don't tell me you've been working in the dark." The others looked at Adam who stared at Billy in surprise. It was then that Billy noticed a number of flashlights and lanterns lying around the Power Chamber. "Guys?" he asked, gesturing at them, disbelief.

"Th�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ there's an emergency generator?" Adam stuttered. Billy nodded. "Yup. Zordon was afraid that something like this would happen so he have Alpha and I work on it. Don't tell me he didn't tell you about it, Adam."

Adam shook his head. "No. I know nothing about the Power Chamber except those you already told me about. Guess you forgot to tell me about the emergency generator."

"I didn't tell you about it because it was still at experimental stage at the time. I have reminded Zordon to tell you after Alpha is done with it but I guess he never get the chance to do so." Then Billy walked towards where Kat and Tanya placed the remnants of Alpha Five. He picked up one part and examined it, frowning.

Kat joined him. "Can he be fixed?" she asked. Billy took a moment before answering. Then he looked at her and smiled. "Yes, Alpha and the Power Chamber. All I need is all the help you guys can give me."

Tommy spoke up. "Just tell us what you need, Billy. We'll help you all we can." The others nodded in agreement. They felt as if their luck had just suddenly turned out to the better.

"Well, what are we waiting for?" Billy said. "Let's get started."

In the throne room of the Machine Empire, King Mondo is pacing around, displeased. The sudden appearance of the one called Silver Ranger troubled him.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Who is that Silver Ranger?' he asked himself. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"I got to stop him before he ruins my plan. I got to.'

Then Queen Machina entered. "My dear, please calm down. We'll find out who the Silver Ranger is. We'll just wait until he reappears and unmask him."

"Then what?" he asked, throwing his hands into the air. "No. We must destroy him. We can't let the Silver Ranger and those pesky Earth Ranger meddle with our perfect plan now."

"What's your plan then?" she asked, interested. She knew that a plan is already playing in her husband's motor brain. King Mondo looked at her, his eyes gleam with evil.

"We will capture one of the Power Brats and lured the Silver Ranger here. Then�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦' he slammed his fist. "Our monster will destroy him."

Queen Machina smiled, evilly. "That's brilliant, my dear. I'll have Klank work on the perfect monster."

"Thank you, my Queen." He turned to watch the great blue-green ball. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Rest now, Silver Ranger. The future assault won't be as easy as today. And Earth will be mine.'

Billy looked up and saw his friends, all busy repairing the Power Chamber. With Adam's help, Billy managed to get everyone well organized. He knew, with strong motivations and determinations, they will get the Power Chamber operated any time soon.

"How's Alpha doing?" Adam whispered to his ear. Billy smiled and closed the lid to Alpha's control.

"Luckily, his memory banks are spared from the explosion. I've repaired the rest." He shrugged. "All we have to do is keep our fingers crossed."

Their friends joined them as Billy reactivated Alpha. The little robot jumped, saying "Ai yi yi yi." Then he looked at the Rangers.

"Tommy! Kat! Adam! You're all fine," he cried out, giving each of them a hug.

Kat wiped her tears. "We're glad you're okay, Alpha. I thought we lost you forever." Alpha patted her hand. "You'll never lose me again, Kat." Then he walked around the console, checking it. "Ai yi yi yi, you've done a great job repairing the console," he praised, clearly surprised. Rocky and Adam exchanged funny looks.

Tommy grinned. "That's because we had help," he said as Billy stepped out of the shadows. Alpha cried another round of �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Ai yi yi yi' and hugged his old friend.

"Billy! You're back," he cried, excitedly. If Alpha weren't a robot, they could've seen him crying. Billy just grinned, blushing from the attention.

"Hi, Alpha," he said, embarrassed when he heard a long �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"ohhh's from his friends. "I'm glad to see you too."

A second later, Billy found himself answering the same questions from Alpha but he hesitated when Alpha asked if he's staying for good. He told them that he don't know and quickly held up his hand to stop any other questions. "I'll tell you the rest of the story later. Right now, we have to get the Power Chamber running before Mondo decided to launch another attack," he said, seriously. Alpha looked around the smashed console and burnt circuit boards.

"Ai yi yi yi! You're right. There's still much to do." Tommy then cleared his throat.

"Uh, it is best if we leave. We'll just be in your way," he said, knowing they can't do much. Billy shook his head in agreement and smiled.

"You guys were a great help but I guess you should take a rest now. You didn't have any since Mondo attacked."

The tired Rangers agreed. Together, they exited. Then, Billy turned to Alpha. "Let's get started, old friend," he said, smiling. Billy could've sworn Alpha beamed right then as they gave each other a high five.

At the Juice Bar, the Rangers sat in silence. Each is lost in his or her thought. "Boy, I'm glad Billy's here," said Rocky, breaking the silence.

"Yeah," Adam admitted. "You know guys, I lost count on how many times Billy had saved our butts before. It's making me feel guilty for not keeping in touch with him while he's on Aquitar."

Tanya looked down. "It makes me feel guilty for taking the Zeo subcrystal from him. He deserves it, not me." Kat patted her hand.

"I'm sure Billy don't hold it against you. Knowing Billy, he would sacrifice his life for us." She looked away. "Cestria's a lucky girl."

Tommy looked up. "Do you think we should tell him about his invalid diploma?" he suddenly asked. They exchanged glances, knowing that if they tell Billy, it means that he would have to stay on and be with them once more, which is what they've been hoping for. But it also means that he had to part with Cestria, his only love.

A few minutes later, Tommy broke the silence. "Let's go back to the Power Chamber. We can't just let Billy and Alpha do the work by themselves." The others agreed and followed him in silence.

"Look at those Power Fools," said King Mondo, as he watched the teenagers walking through the park. "They're sitting ducks." He turned to Sprocket and a troop of cogs.

"Attack them. Bring me a Ranger."

When the cogs appeared, the Rangers took a stance. "Let's take �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"em," Tommy growled as the cogs began to attack. Luckily, the Rangers have had enough rest and felt very refreshed. They're confident that they could face the current attack.

"This is not working as I have planned!" King Mondo exclaimed, displeased. "I asked them to bring me a Ranger but they're losing themselves."

Queen Machina quickly suggested. "Why don't you specify to one Ranger. Maybe it'll help the cogs to determine a strategy."

"Right!" King Mondo contacted one of his cogs. "I want the Pink Ranger. She seemed tired enough not to impose any difficulty."

The cogs heard him and began to change strategy. While six cogs are keeping the other four Rangers busy, another five attacked Kat. The plan worked perfectly. Soon, the tired former Pink Ranger was forced to cry for help. But the others are too far away to help her. Then, the five cogs held the weak Pink Ranger and they all vanished into thin air.

"Kat!" Tommy cried out, as he tried to reach her but it was too late. Then the other six cogs disappeared too.

Billy looked at Alpha, nervously. They've finished repairing most of the Power Chamber and now they're going to reactivate the consoles, just to see if they have the wiring right.

"Ready, Alpha?" The robot nodded. Billy reached out and pressed a button. "Here goes," he said as he heard a low hum and the Power Chamber is back to life again.

But they didn't have time to celebrate yet. As soon as the power was restored, everything, including the alarm worked. The alarm warned them about the attack at the park. Both of them looked at the viewing screen only to see Kat been taken away.

"Kat!" Billy cried out as she disappeared with the cogs. Then he turned to Alpha. "Alpha, prepare to teleport the others in. I don't want the same thing happen to the rest of them." Billy pushed the Comm button. "Guys, we're teleporting you now."

Just as he said that, four figures appeared. For a moment they were dazed by the newly repaired Power Chamber.

"You did it!" Tanya exclaimed, throwing her arms around Billy's neck. The others congratulated him and Alpha. Billy smiled. "Thanks, guys. But there's still a lot we have to do. Alpha and I have restored only the important parts of the Power Chamber. The rest we'll do it later. Right now, the main concern is to contact Zordon." Then his face turned serious. "And save Kat."

Before anyone could say a thing, Alpha cut in. "Ai yi yi yi! King Mondo has hijacked a local tv station and he's appearing on tv."

"Put it on screen, Alpha," Billy ordered.

King Mondo's face appeared. It looked as if he was saying something. "�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ unless the Silver Ranger surrenders, this Earthling girl will die." Then the screen was filled with static as Mondo cut his transmission. For a moment, the Rangers stood in silence.

Tommy clenched his fists. "We got to save her." He turned to Billy. "Can you teleport us to the Machine Empire?"

Billy shook his head. "No, we don't have enough power to do that, besides, it is too dangerous. Without your Zeo Powers, you'll only get yourself captured. I think we should let the Silver Ranger handle this."

"But how do we find the Silver Ranger?" Tanya wondered. Then they all looked at Billy, their eyes pleading them to say something good.

Billy met their eyes confidently. "I think the Silver Ranger will find us."

An hour later, the Zeo Rangers found themselves pacing back and fourth around the Power Chamber. Alpha is still busy repairing the console while Billy had left after telling them that he had to check on the power generator.

Suddenly, a figure in silver appeared at the entrance. The Rangers jumped back in surprise. "Silver Ranger!" Tanya cried out.

The new Ranger nodded. "I got Mondo's message," he said. Tommy and Adam found his voice very familiar. "I'm going to help you save your friend."

"Can we help?" Rocky asked. Like Tommy, he didn't like to sit around doing nothing.

The Silver Ranger looked at him. "Yes. You are to stay here and be ready." The others looked at him, confused.

"Get ready for what?" asked Tanya.

"I'm going to get you your Zeo Crystals back. And Mondo certainly won't let me have it without a tough fight. I need you to get ready for anything," he explained.

Tommy stepped forward. "We'll do it," he said, held out his hand. "Good luck."

The Silver Ranger took his hand. Then he turned to Alpha. "Alpha, teleport me to the Machine Empire as close to the place they keep Kat as you can." Alpha obeyed. Once more, the Rangers found themselves pacing about the Power Chamber. But this time they have a hope.

When he was teleported, the Silver Ranger quickly ducked out of sight. Then he exhaled, trying to get rid of the butterflies in his stomach. As long as his years of being a Ranger, he had never felt so nervous. This is the first time he felt that he is carrying a heavy burden. If he failed to save Kat and get the Zeo Crystals, his friends will suffer the consequences. And for the first time since he became the Silver Ranger, he felt as if he were the old Billy. He's afraid of not able to do as well as the other Rangers. He's afraid of failing�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Stop it, Cranston,' he scolded himself. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"You got to focus on your mission here.'

Then he balled his fists. "Sorry, guys. Can't tell you that I'm the Silver Ranger. Or else you will try to stop me from coming here and save Kat.' Slowly, he sneaked out of his hideout. Like a wolf, Billy began to search his goal, soundlessly.

"The Silver Ranger is not responding to our threat, sire," Klank reported after a few hours later. King Mondo bristled, angrily.

He turned to his son. "Then let show him that we mean business. Attack the Rangers and injure them as bad as you want, Sprocket."

"That shall be done, father," said Sprocket, as he and his chosen cogs disappeared.

The Silver Ranger poked his head into the dungeon. He saw Kat, surrounded by an invisible force field but otherwise, fine. A cog was placed to guard her from escaping. Slowly, the Silver Ranger sneaked behind the cog and gave it a hard knock out blow.

"Silver Ranger! You're here," Kat cried out, for once glad. The Silver Ranger quickly signaled her to be quiet. Then he deactivated the force field by pulling a lever on the wall.

"Let's get the Zeo Crystals," he whispered to her ears. Holding hands, they walked quietly out of the dungeon.

The silence in Power Chamber suddenly burst by the alarm. The Rangers quickly assembled at the console as Alpha punched a few buttons. Then, the viewing screen flickered, showing some cogs attacking a group of teenagers in the park.

"We got to help them," said Tanya, breaking the silence. Adam turned to her.

"But we don't have our powers. It's too dangerous."

Tanya wouldn't give up. "But we can't let them do this. Innocent lives will parish."

Tommy took charge. "We're going, alright. We've sworn to protect the innocents with or without our powers." He turned to Alpha. "Teleport us a couple of yards away from the attack. We can't just appear in the middle of chaos without blowing our cover."

Then he said to himself. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"I hope the Silver Ranger get our crystals before it's too late for us.'

Back in the Machine Empire, the Silver Ranger and Kat have been discovered. Now, they're fighting the cogs that kept coming from nowhere.

"How are we doing, Kat?" he shouted over the noise of the battle. He kicked a cog across the room. He knew no matter how many the cogs are, he's on the winning side.

Kat ducked as a cog threw a punch. Unlike the Silver Ranger, she is having trouble. Not hearing a reply, the Silver Ranger turned and saw her, being pinned down.

"Kat!" he cried out, kicking his cog and ran to help her. He leapt and gave the cogs a powerful kick that forced them off Kat. He helped her up. "Are you alright?" he asked, worried.

For a moment, Kat blinked. Then she nodded. "I'm fine." Then both of them turned only to see the cogs have them surrounded. "Oh, no! What are we going to do?" she asked, gripping his arm.

Billy didn't know what to do. He had to admit that he's feeling very tired now. And this is the first time he has to fight alone, without any Rangers to back him up except the unmorph Kat. He has to protect her and at the same time find the Zeo Crystals, and the cogs are adding to his trouble.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"What should I do?' he thought, furiously. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"I'm never the one who has to make decisions in battle. That's Tommy and Jason's job.'

Suddenly he heard a voice inside him. It has a trace of urgency and yet it was calm. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Call upon the Silver Sword, little wolf,' it said. Hearing that, Billy wasted no time and called out.

"I call upon the Silver Sword!" In his hand, a sword appeared. It gleamed gloriously as if it has served many powerful Rangers to victory. Using the sword, Billy attacked. He made a path through the surrounding cogs, slashing and swinging until the cogs moved away. Then he pulled Kat towards the exit.

They ran until they came upon a small room. Both of them ducked inside as the cogs ran passed them, searching for the wanted intruders. When the cogs are all gone, both of them let out a sigh of relief. Kat heard the Silver Ranger muttered something under his breath.

"What did you say?" asked Kat for clearance.

"I merely stated that that is one incident I would gladly not duplicate in near future."

Kat widened her eyes. There's only person who would say that. Shakily, she asked. "Who are you? And how did you know my name?"

Under his helmet, the Silver Ranger smiled. "We're old friends, Kat." Then he took off his helmet. Kat stifled a gasp. "Billy! You're the Silver Ranger?" she said, disbelief. "How�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦"

Billy interrupted her. "I'll tell you about it later." He turned his attention on the empty hallway. "Right now, let's find the Zeo Crystals," he said, pulling Kat with him. But to his surprise, Kat didn't move. He looked at her, only to see she's looking at something behind him.

"I don't think we need to look any further." She gestured at behind him. Billy turned and saw the Zeo Crystals, unguarded.

"The Zeo Crystals!" he breathed. Then Kat ran for it before Billy could warn her. "Wait�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦" he began but suddenly Kat was thrown back. Billy quickly broke her fall.

She sat up, trying to clear her spinning head. "What was that?" she asked, weakly. Billy helped her up. "That was the force field. King Mondo wouldn't want us to take the crystals so easily," he answered.

"Then, how are we going to get to them?" asked Kat, as they slowly approach the crystals.

"Simple," said Billy, raising his sword. "Take cover," he told her. Kat obeyed and stood further away. Seeing Kat in a safe distance, Billy took a deep breath and smashed the sword against the force field. It exploded, nearly knocking Kat off her feet. Then there was a moment of silence.

Suddenly, the room was filled with cogs.

"Ai yi yi yi! Zordon, I finally got through to you," said Alpha, happily. Zordon looked around at the half-repaired Power Chamber before asking. "What's going on, Alpha?"

Alpha answered. "Ai yi yi yi! I don't remember much, Zordon. But after the bomb went off, we lost contact and the Power Chamber was destroyed. According to the Rangers, Adam got hold with Billy and he's here and has put us back on line."

"Billy's here?" asked the old mentor, looking around for one of his oldest children. "Where is he?" he asked when he couldn't find him.

"Ai yi yi! I don't know. A while ago he said that he's going to check on the power generator. When I tried to contact him, he didn't answer. I monitored his location but couldn't find him anywhere in the facility."

"Where are the Rangers?"

"They're fighting with Mondo's latest monster without their powers."

"What?"

Alpha continued. "But we have a new Ranger helping us and he's in King Mondo's ship, rescuing Kat and retrieving the Zeo Crystals."

Zordon was puzzled. "A new Ranger?"

"Yes." Alpha nodded. "He's called the Silver Ranger."

The name struck Zordon's memory as the Gold Ranger had when he first heard about him. He had heard that name from the past. A very distant past, even before Alpha Five came to Earth and aided him. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"No, it can't be him. It was a long time ago. He's supposed to be dead according to Earthling's life span. He's dead now, just like my other fellow students.' But still, he hoped that he's wrong.

Billy quickly put on his karate stance. Then, he glanced at Kat. "Get the Zeo Crystals and morph. I'll hold them off." With that he began to fight the cogs.

Kat ducked every time the cogs tried to get a hold on her. Billy's words are as good as he is. In a very short time, Kat managed to grab her subcrystal and shouted. "Zeo Ranger I, Pink!"

Grabbing the other crystals, she went to help Billy.

"I have the crystals," she announced, kicking a cog.

"Good. I'm starting to get tired of this," said Billy. With that, he swung his sword, causing the cogs to duck and lost their footing. They fell on each other. Kat quickly exited, followed closely by Billy.

Meanwhile, the other Rangers are having a harder time. When Mondo sent his newest monster down, that leaves the Rangers fighting it without any protection from their armor. Both Tanya and Rocky are too tired to fight. Now, it's up to Tommy and Adam to fight off the monster and protect their friends. But luck is definitely not on their side.

Adam attacked as the monster flung Tommy to the air. Tommy hit the ground painfully and watched as Adam expertly avoid one of KillGuy's punches."

"We can't hold on much longer, Tommy," said Rocky, wincing as Adam suffered the same fate as Tommy. The foursome regrouped.

"We have no choice," said Tommy. "We can't let this monster hurt the people."

KillGuy approached them. "What's the matter? Lose your power?" he sneered. "Oh, forgive me for the pun," he added. As soon as he said that, a streak of silver struck him right on his chest. The monster toppled with a roar.

"That's for the bad joke on my friends," a voice said, as the Silver Ranger appeared with his companion in pink.

"Kat! Silver Ranger!" the other four cried out.

Seeing the new Ranger, Zordon couldn't believe his eyes. "It is him," he whispered, which is one of the things he very rarely does in public. As he watched the six Rangers assembled, Zordon couldn't help himself from smiling, sadly. Alpha turned around to look at him.

"Zordon, are you alright?"

The ancient mentor nodded. "Yes, the Silver Ranger is a sight for sore eyes."

Kat, seeing the park is empty, except for the monster and the Rangers, gave her friends their crystals back. Quickly the four of them morphed.

Now KillGuy had to face six Rangers, all morphed. Seeing the problem, King Mondo sent Klank to Earth. "Go and help KillGuy," he said. "I can't have that Silver Ranger ruin my plan yet."

Klank then teleport to Earth and help KillGuy to grow. As usual, the Rangers were forced to call out for their zords, while Billy looked on, not knowing what to do. "Get ready to initiate the Super ZeoZord sequence," said Tommy as they reached their zords. A few seconds later, they merged into the proud and powerful Super ZeoZord.

"Looks like you've done a little growing of your own," KillGuy commented, as they circled each other. "Where were we, huh?" he asked. "Oh, you were losing." With that he attacked the Rangers.

However, luck is on KillGuy's side. Fully energized with the power of the Crystal of Power, he could easily dodged and intercepted every blow the Super ZeoZord threw at him. Billy, watching from below, had to bear seeing his friends being trashed by KillGuy.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"What should I do?' he thought, clenching his fists in anger. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"I can't stand here and watch. I got to do something.' He was about to teleport inside the zord when he remembered that he could do nothing in there. The zords are under the Zeo Rangers' control and not anyone else. He'll be useless in there.

He shook his head to clear it. "No! I have to do something. Anything!" he said outloud.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Call upon your zord, little wolf.'

Billy paused upon hearing that, out of nowhere. He looked around him, trying to find the source of the voice. Then he realized that it was the same voice that helped him earlier. Suddenly, Billy knew what to do.

He thrust his hand to the air. "I call upon the Silver SkyLightning."

On Aquitar, a giant space jet fighter appeared from beneath the water. The Aquitians stared at it in awe. Delphine turned to Cestro and Cestria. "The legendary Silver SkyLightning is flying again!" she whispered as they looked on.

At the Sacred Palace, Anya watched as the Silver SkyLightning disappeared into outer space. In her hand, she held a photo of Billy.

"Good luck, Billy," she said. "Make my family proud of you."

A twinkling star caught Billy's attention. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Wait a minute. The sky is still bright, how can I see a star?' he wondered but as he looked on, he realized that it wasn't a star at all. A huge silver jet fighter flew across the sky, heading towards him. Its sleek silver body gleamed under the sunrays. It looked so powerful and beautiful that Billy was stunned.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Go little wolf. It's your zord,' the voice inside him said. Seconds later, Billy found himself inside that zord, examining the controls.

KillGuy approached for the killer blow while the Rangers aren't able to do anything except bracing themselves for the end. Their power is dangerously low and Alpha couldn't supply any more power from the emergency generator. And Tommy had used up all his tricks under his sleeves.

But nothing happened to them except for a loud explosion and a roar coming from KillGuy. The Rangers opened their eyes and saw KillGuy, battling a silver jet fighter.

"Snap it out, guys," a voice from the jet fighter said. Instantly, the Rangers knew that it was the Silver Ranger. "Alpha had just given you the extra power from the recovered main generator."

Tommy took charge. "Right. We need the Warrior Wheel now!"

With that, the Zeo Rangers destroyed one of their toughest foe. Kat and Tanya hugged while Tommy, Adam and Rocky exchanged high-fives. In the moment of great joy, none of them noticed the Silver Ranger, who is celebrating this victory by himself. But when they turned to thank him, he and his zord are already gone.

"Rangers, I've regained contact with Zordon," Alpha reported before any of them could say a thing. "He would like to have a word with you."

Tommy spoke through his communicator. "Roger, Alpha. We'll be right there."

It only took them a moment to assemble in the Power Chamber.

"Zordon! We're really glad to see you again." Kat rushed over. Zordon smiled at her. "I'm really glad to see you too. Though I have to say that I was displeased when I heard that you risked your life fighting Mondo's minion without your powers."

Tommy started to defend their decision but Zordon quickly added. "But I'm proud of what you did while I'm gone." The Rangers waited for him to continue but he just stopped at that. Then, it was obvious to the Rangers that he is waiting for someone. A moment later, that someone appeared.

"I got your message, Zordon. Though I was coming anyway."

Zordon focused on the Silver Ranger. "I'm really glad that you're here. I've been wanting to see the Silver Ranger again though I am sure that the person who used to don the Silver Ranger's uniform are already dead by now. I just want to meet the one chosen by my first student to carry out his Silver Legacy."

Just then Kat began to say something but Adam interrupted. "Where's Billy, anyway? He would want to see this." Alpha who was still busy at the console turned to the others.

"Ai yi yi! I can't locate him anywhere."

The others exchanged glances. Then Adam spoke up, his eyes filled with pain. "You don't suppose�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦" He swallowed. "�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ he�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦ he left?" He looked at Tommy for answers but the Red Ranger turned away.

To their surprise, the Silver Ranger spoke up. "No, Rangers. He hasn't left. At least not yet." With that he took off his helmet. Billy grinned at them, looking slightly disheveled with his ruffled dark blond hair. "Surprise?"

Tanya squeaked and gave him a hug. The three boys looked at him still in shock. Then Tommy slapped his forehead. "No wonder you voice sound familiar."

"And you moves too." Adam put in referring to Billy's fighting moves.

Rocky slapped Billy's back. "I can't believe that you're the Silver Ranger! Why didn't you tell us earlier? You could've saved us the worry part."

Billy chuckled. "I was planning to but everything happened so fast that I didn't have time to do so. But I did tell Kat when we were in the Machine Empire."

"But even so, you could've tell us when you first saved Tommy," Adam carefully said.

Billy sighed. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"They would keep digging at it until I tell them the main reason.' He looked at them. "If I told you earlier, you would've try to stop me from going to Mondo's lair and save Kat."

"No, we won't," Tommy said.

"Yes, you would." He looked at Tommy. "You did once, remember. When you guys were still kids and I grew myself up. I volunteered to go and warn the Aquitian Rangers about the approaching regenerator monster when you try to stop me. I had to literally twist your arm to stop you from stopping me."

Tommy was silenced. He had to admit that he hate to see any of his friends risk themselves for him, especially Billy. And he knew that feeling peaked when he saw Billy lying perfectly still after the explosion of the Command Center. He had really thought that Billy was dead then.

And if Billy had told him about being a Silver Ranger earlier, he would've volunteered to go to the Machine Empire with him just to watch his back. Or maybe make sure that Billy and Kat got out safely before worrying about himself.

Tommy sighed. Like it or not he also had to admit that Billy did the right thing. When he spoke to the Silver Ranger earlier, he felt himself looking up at him. As if the Silver Ranger was his leader and someone he could turn to and obey. He had looked at the Silver Ranger as someone with experience and power. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Boy, this leader thing must be taking a toll on me,' he thought and nodded at Billy.

"You're right, I would not only try to stop you. I would even volunteer to go with you," he admitted. Billy exhaled in relief.

Adam was deep in thought. "Yeah, I would talk you out too."

"That goes triple with me." Rocky put in.

There was silence. "Well, I still can't believe that Billy is the Silver Ranger," Tanya said, breaking the silence. "I mean think about it. He passed on the Yellow Zeo Crystal to me and had to miss his chance at the Gold Power only to receive a powerful power. Talk about lucky." She wiped a happy tear.

Billy smiled. "Yeah, well, the Aquitian Rangers thought that it was a nice surprise present for me. Unless I'm not really�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦" he trailed off, facing Zordon.

"I am sure that you're the perfect candidate to hold the Silver Power, Billy." Zordon reassured. "Even then the former Silver Ranger was a lot like you. Wise beyond his years as well as intelligent. I'm sure that he had chosen the right successor to carry on his legacy. And there is no other person who deserves it than you, Billy. You've done a lot for us and sacrifice a lot more than you should to all the defender of good in the whole universe. I am only happy and proud to welcome you once more as the new Silver Ranger of this coming new millennium."

There was a moment of silence between the two. The other Rangers knew that both Zordon and Billy missed each other so much that they could not voice it. A minute later, Kat cleared her throat, breaking the silence.

"Does this mean that you're staying?" she asked, carefully. Billy winced and looked away. He found it hard to say good bye to his friends.

But before he could say anything, Tanya changed the subject. "Tell us what happen on Aquitar," she said, knowing Billy is still uncertain whether he should stay or go. Billy in turn, smiled and demorphed followed by the other Rangers. He leaned on a console and sighed.

"It's a long story."

Billy told them what he did on Aquitar from the day he arrived, through the treatment and the big war and finally the power transfer ceremony. He skipped the part where he nearly went into coma while Cestria strive to regain his youth and his relationship with her. When he was finished, there was silence.

"Boy, all this story-telling is making me thirsty," Billy said, breaking the silence. Rocky's eyes lit up. "Care for a round of Ernie's milkshake and his new tropical pie? It's really good." Rocky baited.

Billy chuckled. "Same old Rocky, alright. Sure, why not."

"Go, Rangers. Alpha and I will clear the mess. Enjoy yourselves," said Zordon. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"Enjoy your time with Billy. I have the feeling that you're going to need it,' he thought to himself. Then the Rangers teleported out. Alpha turned to face Zordon. "Do you think Billy will stay?"

"I don't know, Alpha. I just don't know."

The Rangers walked through the park together, enjoying the view. Then Rocky challenged them into a race. As the others ran, chasing after Rocky, Billy found himself alone with Kat.

"Why aren't you running?" he asked her. She looked at him.

"Why aren't you?"

Billy ran his fingers through his hair. "I just want to enjoy the scene." He looked away, to the park that he always hangs out since he was a little boy. Kat, in turn, stared at Billy's features. She had to admit that Billy has changed since she last saw him.

He is now better looking and has this calm demeanor that girls could easily fall into. And his blond hair is darker than usual and longer. It makes Kat have this tingling to run her hands through his hair, the same tingling she always has whenever she played with Tommy's hair. Kat wouldn't be surprised if girls started to hang around Billy once he starts going to school.

�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"It'll be cute to see how Billy going to handle all of them,' she thought, mischievously. �ƒ¢â�€š¬�‹�"And he is awfully cute.' Suddenly, Kat gave him a kiss on his cheek. He looked at her, surprised. "What was that for?"

"That is for coming to my rescue and save my life," she said. "You're my hero, today." Then she brushed a lock of hair that fell into his eyes. "We really miss you, Billy. I miss you." With that she took off, heading towards the Juice Bar.

Once more, Billy found himself alone. He went to the lake and watched as the sun slowly set. Everything's so beautiful and so familiar. But he wanted more. Then his mind went to the angel in his dream as he thought about his decision and confirmed that it is the right decision for him.

"I'm going to miss you guys," he whispered and teleport back to the Power Chamber.

"Where's Billy?" asked Tommy as Kat settled down beside him.

"He'll be here in a minute."

The Rangers waited in silence. "So, who's going to tell him that he has to go back to school?" Rocky asked, breaking the silence. They all looked at Tommy.

He sighed in resignation. "Alright, I'll tell him."

Suddenly Adam looked at the entrance and whimpered. Tanya looked at him, worried. "What's wrong, Adam?" He looked at his friends' worried looks.

"Billy's taking an awfully long time to get here," he pointed out. The others exchanged glances.

"You don't suppose�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦" Rocky trailed off, horrified at the thought.

Kat shook her head. "No way. He would never leave without saying good bye."

But Tanya looked at her, grimly. "He did, once. When he first went to Aquitar, remember?" she said. "I knew Billy enough to tell that he's the kind of guy who's not comfortable with good byes. He's afraid of having a second thought or if we tried to stop him. So, would rather leave before anything happen."

They looked at each other, dreadfully. Suddenly Tommy jumped from his seat, knocking his chair down. He looked at his friends.

"I'm not going to sit here and let that happen," Tommy said, almost in whisper. "Maybe Billy doesn't want to say good bye but I certainly do." Then he went to a quiet corner and teleport to the Power Chamber. The others followed him�ƒ¢â�€š¬�‚¦

<h3><center>TO BE CONCLUDED...</center></h3>

NEXT: Billy said good bye to his friends and met the former Silver Ranger. The rest you have to read up in the conclusion to the Silver Legacy series.