POWER RANGERS TAKE FLIGHT

Episode 39: "All or Nothing, part 1"

Writer:  Joe Rovang

[ Sentai footage is primarily from Jetman #23, 44, and 45, but all sources are indicated. ]

[ Fade in to INT. HOUSE, LUKE'S ROOM - The lights are off in Luke's bedroom.  LISA enters and sits on the bed sullenly.  She then turns to the night-stand and picks up a framed picture resting there.  The picture is Chris's Sky Blaster sketch (see episode 32). ]

[ LISA smiles wistfully. ]

[ EXT. MILITARY BASE - Establishment shot. ]

[ INT. HANGAR - SPECIAL AGENT TURNQUIST is looking up at a Zord standing above to his right (off-screen) when he is joined by GENERAL TAGGART. ]

GENERAL TAGGART:
How much longer?

SPECIAL AGENT TURNQUIST:
Another day or two before we can inspect all the servos.  We haven't turned up anything yet, though.

[ GENERAL TAGGART nods, but he doesn't seem satisfied. ]

GENERAL TAGGART:
See that it's finished by tomorrow.

[ He exits.  TURNQUIST glances in his direction and then continues looking up. ]

[ Sentai (Jetman #34) - The KESTREL and BATTLEZORD tower above. ]

[ INT. SPACE STATION COMMAND - DILLIK and DR. BERING are busy working on separate wall controls. ]

[ DILLIK curiously turns to DR. BERING. ]

DILLIK:
So, what are you going to do about being one Ranger short?

[ DR. BERING doesn't stop working. ]

DR. BERING (discontentedly):
Well, I know what General Taggart wants to do.

DILLIK:
But you don't like his idea?

DR. BERING:
Not especially.  We've been down that road before.

[ She finishes. ]

DR. BERING (cont'd):
All right.  Are you ready?

DILLIK:
Yep.  The flight path is all set, and we're recording on all available wavelengths.

DR. BERING:
All right.  Let's do it.

[ DR. BERING enters a final command. ]

[ INT. DARK LAIR - In the lair, the red-striped HOVERBIRD appears with greenish-silver vertical streaks.  It promptly begins scouring the area. ]

[ Sentai (Jetman #44) - Somewhere in the darkness, a pair of yellow eyes lights up. ]

[ INT. SPACE STATION COMMAND - DILLIK approaches DR. BERING's monitor, in which we see the Hoverbird's perspective as it flies through the lair, taking brief glimpses of various crates and pieces of machinery. ]

DILLIK:
Okay, we should be coming up on the Gigazord.

[ INT. DARK LAIR - The HOVERBIRD advances and tilts its camera eye upward. ]

[ Sentai (Jetman #43) - As we pan up the silhouette of a monstrous entity in the darkness, blue electrical bolts crackle up its body.  Its eyes and a point on its chest are glowing yellow. ]

[ INT. SPACE STATION COMMAND - DR. BERING is transfixed. ]

DR. BERING:
It's huge...

[ INT. DARK LAIR - As the HOVERBIRD continues to study the giant above (off-screen), an electric hum is heard nearby.  The HOVERBIRD promptly zips backward and clanks against a metallic surface (off-screen).  We whip-pan to see MAINFRAME holding a magnetic device of some sort, to which the HOVERBIRD is now attached.  MAINFRAME grasps the HOVERBIRD in his hand and discards the device. ]

[ INT. SPACE STATION COMMAND - DR. BERING and DILLIK watch apprehensively.

[ In the monitor, the Hoverbird's view turns over to look up at MAINFRAME's face as he keeps his fingers wrapped around it. ]

[ INT. DARK LAIR - Small filaments creep out from MAINFRAME's palm and penetrate the HOVERBIRD's surface. ]

[ INT. SPACE STATION COMMAND - The transmission garbles slightly, and MAINFRAME then peers down into the camera. ]

MAINFRAME (in sing-song):
Now I know your frequencies...

[ The video then cuts to static. ]

[ DR. BERING and DILLIK look at each other. ]

[ EXT. SPACE STATION - Trask's ship, hereby referred to as DILLIK'S SHIP, remains attached to the space station. ]

CHRIS (voice-over):
So you're saying you think he's finished it.

DILLIK (voice-over):
It's not that I think he's finished it.  He's finished it!

[ INT. SPACE STATION COMMAND - In casual clothes, CHRIS, CASEY, PETE, and LISA meet with DR. BERING and DILLIK. ]

DILLIK (cont'd):
That was the power-up sequence we saw.

CASEY:
So how much longer until --

[ She is interrupted by an alert tone.  OFFICER1 appears in the monitor. ]

OFFICER1 (from monitor):
Dr. Bering, we're getting a reading downtown.

[ DR. BERING looks grimly at the four HEROES. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - From behind a veil of smoke, the GIGAZORD emerges.  It is a heavily armored giant gray robot with numerous curved projections. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - In the completed cockpit (compare with episode 32), MAINFRAME sits at the command seat.  The cockpit is equipped with manual controls, but MAINFRAME merely holds his hands against the console. ]

MAINFRAME:
(laughs wickedly)  I'm coming for you, Rangers!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD stalks through the city and out of frame.  (A tiny Japanese flag atop a building in the background may be replaced with a United States flag.) ]

[ INT. HANGAR (Jetman #1) - As an alarm sounds, a set of heavy metal doors slide open, revealing the five SKY FLYERS at rest in a hangar.  A red alarm light is flashing. ]

[ INT. SPACE STATION COMMAND - In the monitor, the GIGAZORD turns and showers the city with dark bluish beams of energy from its mouth, causing a number of explosions (Jetman #44). ]

[ DILLIK shamefully rubs the back of his head. ]

DILLIK:
I kinda wish I hadn't designed that beam now.

[ DR. BERING looks on apprehensively. ]

DR. BERING (inwardly):
Hurry, Rangers.

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD turns as the MEGAZORD lands nearby.  The MEGAZORD assumes a ready position. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The four RANGERS man the Megazord, with BLACK RANGER in the front, center seat. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD curls its clawed fingers readily and speaks, its voice a booming, monstrous version of Mainframe's voice. ]

GIGAZORD:
Ahh, Megazord...

[ The GIGAZORD stares down the MEGAZORD. ]

GIGAZORD (cont'd):
So you'll be my first opponent!

[ The MEGAZORD takes a sideways step, and the GIGAZORD steps in the opposite direction. ]

GIGAZORD (cont'd):
And I'll be your last!  (laughs wickedly, both step)

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - BLACK RANGER clenches his fist before reaching to press a button in front of him. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
We'll see about that!  Rocket punch!  (presses button)

[ Sentai (Jetman #44) - BLACK RANGER's hand presses the button, activating a fist diagram. ]

[ Sentai (Jetman #6) - Joysticks flip up. ]

[ BLACK RANGER grabs the joysticks. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD readies its right fist. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - BLACK RANGER begins to squeeze the right trigger button. ]

[ Sentai (Jetman #6) - His thumb presses the trigger. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD's fist launches from its forearm like a missile.  (US effects may be used to enhance the rocket punch's appearance, such as straightening the trajectory and enhancing the rocket flames.) ]

[ The rocket fist flies from the MEGAZORD toward the camera. ]

[ Our perspective flies toward the distant GIGAZORD as it stands ready. ]

[ The fist smashes into the GIGAZORD's torso with a spark explosion, causing the GIGAZORD to stagger back slightly.  The fist (US addition) flies away. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME steadies himself at the controls. ]

MAINFRAME:
Hmm, I need a chance to get used to this Zord.

[ MAINFRAME removes his hands from the controls.  A small hidden compartment in his chest slides open, revealing a familiar red gem (see episode 35). ]

MAINFRAME:
This ought to buy me some time!

[ A fiery pulse emanates from the gem. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - BLACK RANGER presses his button again. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Raptor Axe!

[ Sentai (Jetman #44) - As he presses the button, the diagram of the RAPTOR AXE appears on-screen.  (The red square on the small device below the monitor may be changed to black via US tinting.) ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD brandishes the RAPTOR AXE and advances. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - Reacting, MAINFRAME closes his compartment panel, hiding the red gem, and returns his hands to the console. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD strikes the GIGAZORD three times with the RAPTOR AXE, causing a flash of sparks each time.  The GIGAZORD remains relatively inert. ]

[ The MEGAZORD then thrusts the RAPTOR AXE forward, knocking the GIGAZORD back with another burst of sparks. ]

[ The GIGAZORD falls and rolls backward. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - YELLOW RANGER cockily brushes his hands together. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
Man, and I was expecting this to be hard!

[ Distant thunderous footsteps can be heard.  The RANGERS look left. ]

LISA (Blue Ranger):
Huh?

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #23) - Now lacking its axe, the MEGAZORD, formerly looking down, quickly looks to its left and assumes a startled defensive stance. ]

[ Approaching in the distance is INFERNIS (see episode 29). ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS recoil in shock. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
What the --?!

CASEY (Pink Ranger):
It's Trask's red demon!

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Yeah, and the only one we haven't faced again.

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD rises and assumes a ready stance. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - As the RANGERS look between their opponents at center and right (both off-screen) BLACK RANGER shakes his head with dissatisfaction. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
This is gonna be tricky.  Let's keep the Gigazord off its feet before we tackle lobster-face over there.  Ball-and-chain!  (presses button)

[ Sentai (Jetman #20) - BLACK RANGER presses his button, revealing the flail diagram. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD readies the flail weapon and then throws it.  It flies through the air. ]

[ As the flail approaches the GIGAZORD, it performs a mighty karate chop.  The flail fall to the GIGAZORD's feet, cleanly cleaved in two.  We pan up to see the GIGAZORD standing ready. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS shift uncomfortably. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
Uhh... uh oh.

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #23) - INFERNIS extends his hand. ]

[ The MEGAZORD is bombarded with spark explosions. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS are shaken.  BLACK RANGER presses a button on his controls. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Rocket punch!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #23) - The MEGAZORD readies its fist and fires its rocket punch (same US enhancements). ]

[ INFERNIS catches the fist in his hand (rocket flames may be enhanced with US effects). ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS are startled. ]

LISA (Blue Ranger):
He caught it!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #23) - INFERNIS hurls the rocket fist back toward the MEGAZORD.  It strikes the one-handed robot with a spark explosion. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS are shaken. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #23) - Now two-handed again, the MEGAZORD falls back. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD brandishes a sword. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME gloats but then looks up to the left. ]

MAINFRAME:
Ready for more, Rangers?  (looks up)  Huh?

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD looks up. ]

[ EXT. SKY (Jetman #44) - The KESTRELZORD flies overhead. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS react. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
Hey, did anybody call the Kestrelzord?

LISA (Blue Ranger):
No, but we should have.

[ INT. KESTREL COCKPIT (US footage) - RED RANGER, in feminine form (see episode 32), gives a casual salute.  (Her holsters hold their standard weapons, though they perhaps don't appear here.) ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
Hi, Rangers.  Need some help?

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS appear surprised. ]

LISA (Blue Ranger):
Dr. Bering!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD briefly places its sword in front of its mouth and then blows its dark bluish energy beam toward the sky. ]

[ In mid-air, the KESTREL sparks and falls.  The KESTREL crash-lands downtown as the GIGAZORD stands in the background with its sword. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - Looking to the right, the RANGERS appear concerned, but BLACK points ahead. ]

CASEY (Pink Ranger):
Dr. Bering!

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
She's down!

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Yeah, well, we've got our own problems!  (presses button)  Phoenix Blade!

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - The MEGAZORD brandishes the PHOENIX BLADE and charges. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - BLACK RANGER pushes forward on his right joystick. ]

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - Advancing, the MEGAZORD swings the PHOENIX BLADE, but INFERNIS deftly catches the blade between two fingers. ]

[ INFERNIS drags the MEGAZORD around by the PHOENIX BLADE.  The MEGAZORD struggles. ]

[ Finally, INFERNIS delivers a chop to the sword, breaking off the first third or more.  He retains the broken piece in his left hand. ]

[ The MEGAZORD staggers back, broken sword in hand. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS are alarmed. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
No way!

[ INT. KESTREL COCKPIT (US footage) - RED RANGER watches toward her left until something to her right draws her attention. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
How much stronger do I have to make that stupid sword?  (looks right)  Uh oh.

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD lets loose a barbed tendril connected to its backside as a tail.  The tendril flies through the air and latches onto the downed KESTRELZORD's neck. ]

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - The sword fragment still in his hand, INFERNIS projects red electricity from his eyes.  It wraps around the MEGAZORD, and the robot drops the broken PHOENIX BLADE.  The MEGAZORD struggles but is lifted off the ground. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - PINK RANGER struggles with her joysticks. ]

CASEY (Pink Ranger):
He's got us!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD hurls the KESTRELZORD over its head using its tendril tail.  The GIGAZORD retains its sword. ]

[ The KESTREL is slammed to the ground.  The tendril remains wrapped around it. ]

[ INT. KESTREL COCKPIT (US footage) - RED RANGER is shaken in her cockpit. ]

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - Continuing to levitate the MEGAZORD with its red electrical bolt, INFERNIS flings the robot overhead.  (The broken blade remains in his hand.) ]

[ The MEGAZORD crashes to the ground (a US red electrical bolt may be added around the MEGAZORD; compare with sentai). ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS are shaken. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD hurls the KESTREL in the other direction. ]

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - INFERNIS does likewise to the MEGAZORD. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The KESTREL crash-lands. ]

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - The MEGAZORD lands, the red electricity remaining around it. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - Sword still in hand, the GIGAZORD boasts. ]

GIGAZORD:
Ha!  Rangers... you're finished!

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS recover. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
Man, we're getting creamed!

CASEY (Pink Ranger):
Let's try the Mega Kestrelzord!

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Good idea.  (to monitor) You copy that, Dr. Bering?

[ In the monitor, RED RANGER nods from the Kestrel cockpit. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger, from monitor):
I'm on it.

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD rises, looks to its right, and heads in that direction with determination. ]

[ The KESTREL rises, looks to its left, and sets out. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME leans forward. ]

MAINFRAME:
Not this time, Rangers!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD runs straight ahead.  (It now lacks its sword.) ]

[ Nearby, the KESTREL and MEGAZORD approach each other and reach to touch fists. ]

[ Suddenly, both of their forearms are grabbed by the GIGAZORD's hands. ]

[ The GIGAZORD hurls both robots backward, sending them flying. ]

GIGAZORD:
(hurls robots)  So long!

[ The KESTREL and MEGAZORD crash near each other. ]

[ The Gigazord's tendril flies through the air again.  This time, it wraps around the MEGAZORD's neck and pulls it out of frame. ]

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - INFERNIS extends his hand.  The broken sword fragment remains in his other hand. ]

[ Jetman #41 - The downed KESTRELZORD erupts in sparks. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD lifts the MEGAZORD into the air with its tendril. ]

[ INT. LAB - GENERAL TAGGART and SPECIAL AGENT TURNQUIST watch a monitor tended to by a TECHNICIAN. ]

[ SPECIAL AGENT TURNQUIST seems uncomfortable with the sight in the monitor (not shown). ]

SPECIAL AGENT TURNQUIST:
Uhh, General, pardon my impertinence, but don't you think we should send the Battlezord?

GENERAL TAGGART:
Not until it passes inspection.  It spent nearly three weeks in enemy hands.  There's no telling what they did to it.

[ SPECIAL AGENT TURNQUIST appears to stifle further rebuttal on his part. ]

[ The TECHNICIAN catches sight of another monitor. ]

TECHNICIAN:
Uhh... General...?  I'm picking up an extremely large object approaching Earth.

[ GENERAL TAGGART furrows his brow suspiciously. ]

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - INFERNIS charges forward and strikes with his arm blade, the broken sword fragment in his other hand. ]

[ Apparently struck, the downed KESTRELZORD erupts in sparks. ]

[ INT. KESTREL COCKPIT (US footage) - The cockpit shakes and erupts in sparks around RED RANGER.  She grunts. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD suspended above it, the GIGAZORD readies its sword and then slashes its robot victim multiple times. ]

[ EXT. CITY (ELSEWHERE) (Jetman #23) - INFERNIS strikes again.  The KESTREL sparks once more. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD is slashed twice more. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - Sparks shower the RANGERS in their cockpit. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The MEGAZORD drops to the ground.  The GIGAZORD stands in the foreground. ]

[ INT. LAB - GENERAL TAGGART and SPECIAL AGENT TURNQUIST continue to watch the monitor, both appearing somewhat concerned.  GENERAL TAGGART leans forward and presses a button as he speaks into a microphone. ]

GENERAL TAGGART:
Dr. Bering, status report.

DR. BERING (from monitor):
Oh, just trying to get the Kestrel back online.  How's that Battlezord coming?

[ GENERAL TAGGART grunts privately.  Meanwhile, the TECHNICIAN turns to him, working another monitor. ]

TECHNICIAN:
General, the object has entered the magnetosphere.

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #23) - INFERNIS is struck from above with a blue electrical bolt.  He grows rigid, and the space around him seems to ripple slightly.  (The broken piece of the Phoenix Blade may be added with a US effect, falling from his left hand.) ]

[ The broken piece of the Phoenix Blade drops to the ground, its size dwarfing several cars in the background. ]

[ Space continues to warp around INFERNIS, ultimately encasing him in a large, misty crystal.  He appears frozen solid. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD reacts. ]

GIGAZORD:
Huh?  What is this?!

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS are perplexed.  They then look up. ]

[ EXT. SKY - In the sky looms the demon-eater (see episode 28) as seen from head-on, only its sun-lit surface visible through the daylight sky (like a half moon or crescent moon in daylight).  It appears only slightly smaller than the apparent size of the moon. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - YELLOW RANGER points up at the sky. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
It's the demon-eater!  He came back!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #23) - INFERNIS' crystalline enclosure gleams with rays of white light, and he is then obliterated in a bright explosion.  As the light subsides, only sparkles remain. ]

[ The MEGAZORD rises. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME looks down at his chest.  His compartment opens, revealing smoking, blackened fragments of the red gem.  He grunts disgustedly, and a small panel in the back of the compartment pushes the fragments out as he brushes them away with his hand.  The compartment is gone once the back panel meets the surface of his chest, and he returns his hands to the console in front of him. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD readies its sword and then leaps. ]

GIGAZORD:
I'll crush you myself!  (leaps)

[ The GIGAZORD flies over with its sword in hand.  It then flies by the MEGAZORD, slashing it in passing. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS are shaken. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD flies in again and lands from the other direction, delivering a slash to the MEGAZORD.  It follows with two more strikes. ]

[ The GIGAZORD then reaches forward with its free hand and grabs the MEGAZORD by the face.  It then hurls the MEGAZORD, which flies through the air and crashes to the ground some distance away. ]

[ INT. LAB - GENERAL TAGGART watches the monitor reluctantly.  He finally gives in. ]

GENERAL TAGGART:
Send the Battlezord.

[ SPECIAL AGENT TURNQUIST appears satisfied as the TECHNICIAN gets to work. ]

[ In the monitor, the BATTLEZORD leaps to depart the hangar (Jetman #34). ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD fires its mouth blast. ]

[ The fallen MEGAZORD erupts in sparks. ]

[ The BATTLEZORD comes running. ]

[ The GIGAZORD turns.  (A Japanese billboard in the foreground is to be replaced with a US composite advertising "Juice" brand beverages; see episode 7.) ]

[ Moving at high speed, the BATTLEZORD frantically dashes in circles around the tranquil GIGAZORD.  Finally, the GIGAZORD sticks out its foot, toppling the BATTLEZORD onto its face. ]

[ The Gigazord's barbed tendril shoots out and latches around the BATTLEZORD's waist. ]

[ The GIGAZORD hoists the BATTLEZORD into the air and slams it onto the ground.  It repeats this twice more.  (Each close-up impact is mirrored from sentai.) ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS appear concerned. ]

LISA (Blue Ranger):
Oh no!  Battlezord!

[ DR. BERING's voice emanates from the controls. ]

DR. BERING (from controls):
It's buying us time to form the Mega Kestrelzord!

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Well, let's get to it!

[ The other RANGERS pump their fists in unison and return to their controls. ]

RANGERS (in unison):
Right!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #41) - The KESTRELZORD rises and assumes a ready stance. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The four RANGERS perform a fist-crossing gesture in unison (compare with Jetman #26). ]

RANGERS (in unison):
Mega Kestrelzord, combine!

[ EXT. ANYWHERE (Jetman #26) - The MEGAZORD and KESTRELZORD touch fists, and the MEGA KESTRELZORD then assembles. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - RED RANGER materializes from red energy in the empty seat. ]

[ EXT. ANYWHERE (Jetman #26) - The MEGA KESTRELZORD assembly is complete. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The BATTLEZORD lands on the ground and sparks. ]

[ Standing overhead (without its sword), the GIGAZORD raises its foot and stomps on the BATTLEZORD's chest.  As it grinds its foot into the robot, the GIGAZORD looks up. ]

[ The MEGA KESTRELZORD leaps in with a flying kick.  The GIGAZORD stands its ground, however, and the MEGA KESTRELZORD bounces right off.  It crashes to the ground nearby. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS are shaken. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Wow, that sure didn't work!

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
Don't give up, guys!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD strikes a ready pose and then advances out of frame. ]

[ The MEGA KESTRELZORD rises and charges off.  The Japanese billboard is replaced with a billboard for Channel 6 Valley News, boasting of the best Power Ranger coverage.  It bears the image of STACY KEENE. ]

[ The two combatants lock arms and struggle back and forth.  They then break, and the GIGAZORD staggers back slightly. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - BLACK RANGER speaks.  The RANGERS then present their fists, and BLACK RANGER pushes his joysticks forward (compare with Jetman #26). ]

RANGERS (in unison):
Gemini Beam!

[ EXT. ANYWHERE (Jetman #44) - The MEGA KESTRELZORD readies its talons, charges its chest beam, and fires. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD blocks the incoming beam with a dark, round shield.  A fiery explosion erupts around it, but the GIGAZORD remains unharmed. ]

[ The MEGA KESTRELZORD appears startled. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The RANGERS appear shocked, but YELLOW RANGER is flippant. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
Well, there's that shield Dillik told us about.

CASEY (Pink Ranger):
You guys, if the Gemini Beam can't stop him, what will?

[ BLACK RANGER looks on grimly. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The GIGAZORD readies its sword and promptly slashes the MEGA KESTRELZORD.  It slashes twice more and then lunges in for another blow.  The sword hits the MEGA KESTRELZORD, sending it staggering back. ]

[ The GIGAZORD fires its mouth blast, inundating the MEGA KESTRELZORD with spark blasts. ]

[ The Gigazord's tendril then flies overhead and latches onto the MEGA KESTRELZORD's neck.  The MEGA KESTRELZORD staggers sideways. ]

[ The GIGAZORD then sends an incendiary blast down the length of the tendril.  Sparks explode from the MEGA KESTRELZORD. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - Sparks erupt around the RANGERS. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
We're losing power!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The MEGA KESTRELZORD exhaustedly leans back against a building behind it. ]

[ The GIGAZORD charges forward, sword in hand. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - RED RANGER presses a series of buttons. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
Engaging backup generators.

[ Behind her, PINK RANGER appears concerned. ]

CASEY (Pink Ranger):
Uhh, you might wanna hurry...!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - Approaching, the GIGAZORD rears back in slow motion for a sword strike.  It swings. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - RED RANGER finishes and then twists her joysticks (left back, right forward). ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
Got it!  (twists)

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - As the GIGAZORD strikes, the MEGA KESTRELZORD lunges aside just in time, leaving the GIGAZORD to strike the building in its place with a flash of sparks.  The GIGAZORD begins to turn. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME removes one hand to clench it angrily, but he then returns it to the console. ]

MAINFRAME:
All right, Rangers, let's see you dodge my special attack!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - Now lacking its sword, the GIGAZORD touches its hands to its chest and then thrusts them forward.  From its chest extends a long, black tube with sharp prongs on the end. ]

[ The tube's sharp end punches through the MEGA KESTRELZORD's lower chest, embedding the tube therein. ]

[ Sparks erupt across the stiffened MEGA KESTRELZORD as the slightly bent tube is now suspended between them. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - Sparks flash around the RANGERS. ]

[ YELLOW RANGER looks down at his monitor. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
They're gonna board us!

[ INT. CONNECTING TUBE (US footage) - In a long, dark tunnel only ten feet in diameter (its slight curvature matching the sentai), a stream of NOBOTS pours out from a round opening leading into an area of dark machinery.  They hurry down the tunnel carrying dark gray, baton-like weapons with points at the end (compare with Liveman #3).  The NOBOTS run with their arms stiffly extended out to the sides. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - BLUE RANGER clenches her fist. ]

LISA (Blue Ranger):
This is it, guys!  Just like Dillik warned us!

[ RED RANGER presses a button. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
Right!  Activating Echo Shield!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - As we zoom in on the punctured MEGA KESTRELZORD, a sparkling shimmer (US effect) builds up across the robot's body (see episode 16) as a humming sound builds. ]

[ INT. CONNECTING TUBE (US footage) - The humming shimmer sweeps down the inside of the tunnel, jarring the NOBOTS in their tracks as it passes them.  Some spark and crackle with electricity. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME looks around anxiously. ]

MAINFRAME:
What's happening?!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - As the MEGA KESTRELZORD and connecting tube continue to shimmer (US effect), the GIGAZORD takes a few sideways steps and draws its sword.  We zoom in on the MEGA KESTRELZORD's head. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - BLACK RANGER addresses RED as she works her controls. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Give it more power!

[ The humming sound in the cockpit grows louder, and the cabin lights flicker briefly, drawing the RANGERS' attention. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - Its sword ready, the GIGAZORD then suddenly tenses up and begins to crackle with blue electrical bolts.  It then slumps limply. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME pounds his fists against the controls. ]

MAINFRAME:
No!!

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - BLACK RANGER rises from his seat and heads toward the rear door.  YELLOW and PINK join him. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Lisa, stay and help Dr. Bering.  We're gonna go pay Mainframe a visit.

[ INT. CONNECTING TUBE (US footage) - From inside the tunnel, we see into the damaged machinery beyond.  Three large pincer flaps remain open (compare with sentai tube's end).  The BLACK, YELLOW, and PINK RANGERS drop down onto the bottom flap and enter the tunnel.  Each has a BATTLIZER on his or her right hand. ]

[ Further down the tunnel, the stunned NOBOTS recover and notice the Rangers ahead (off-screen).  They ready their baton weapons and charge forward, arms once again extended out by their sides. ]

[ BLACK RANGER aims his BATTLIZER forward, as do YELLOW and PINK. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Battle Birds, launch!

[ The three BATTLE BIRDS launch from the RANGERS' fists and open their wings as they fly ahead at high speed.  Just as they reach the camera, they begin to glow with respective purple, yellow, and pink light. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - We quickly pan down the length of the connecting tube as crackling destruction is heard within. ]

[ INT. CONNECTING TUBE (US footage) - Inside the tunnel, all of the NOBOTS lie in ruin, a few crackling and twitching. ]

[ The three RANGERS approve.  Their BATTLE BIRDS return to their wrists. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
All right!  Now let's go say hi.

[ Their BATTLIZERS remaining on their hands, the three RANGERS hurry down the tunnel, stepping over piles of robot carnage. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME's hands remain on the console. ]

MAINFRAME:
Finally!  Back online!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The GIGAZORD once again lifts its sword and swings. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - RED RANGER quickly jerks her left joystick forward. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
Block!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The MEGA KESTRELZORD catches the incoming blade with its left talon. ]

[ The combatants struggle. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD (US footage) - The BLACK, PINK, and YELLOW RANGERS are climbing a ladder in a narrow mechanical passageway as the area shakes a bit.  They retain their BATTLIZERS. ]

[ BLACK RANGER pauses to call into his left wrist. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
What's going on out there?

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - RED RANGER struggles with her joysticks. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
Oh, just the usual...

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - We pull back from a low angle of the GIGAZORD.  The camera travels back though the MEGA KESTRELZORD's legs as it staggers forward, its grip on the GIGAZORD's sword not abating. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME glowers. ]

MAINFRAME:
You Rangers are really starting to annoy me!  Take this!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The GIGAZORD blows a stream of steam from its mouth. ]

[ Blown in the face, the MEGA KESTRELZORD squirms slightly. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The BLUE and RED RANGERS struggle only slightly as the steam blows in the foreground. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
Well, all right, if that's the worst you've got...

[ With a loud pop, the glass in front of the cockpit forms a long crack, surprising RED RANGER. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME continues to hold his hands on the console.  Suddenly, the rear door blows off its frame with a foot indentation in the center.  MAINFRAME whirls around to find the BLACK, PINK, and YELLOW RANGERS in the entranceway with their BATTLE ENFORCERS aimed at him.  The BATTLE ENFORCERS are similar in design to the previous Sky Enforcers and Echo Enforcers, but it is the BATTLE BIRDS which are assembled with the SKY BLASTERS.  The BATTLIZERS' wrist braces remain on the RANGERS' wrists. ]

[ MAINFRAME freezes. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Why don't you take it easy, Mainframe?  Wouldn't want somebody to get hurt.

[ MAINFRAME raises his hands timidly. ]

MAINFRAME:
Don't shoot.

[ BLACK RANGER gestures toward the controls. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Shut down the Gigazord's reactors.

[ MAINFRAME meekly turns. ]

MAINFRAME:
Anything you say.

[ MAINFRAME places a hand on the controls. ]

[ Suddenly, makeshift metallic fixtures extend from the wall and grab the RANGERS by the wrists.  They are pulled back and pinned against the wall.  YELLOW RANGER drops his BATTLE ENFORCER, and it clatters on the metal floor.  The others' weapons are pinned to the side. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The connecting tube retracts, leaving a gaping hole in the MEGA KESTRELZORD's midsection.  A few pieces of broken NOBOTS may be seen sprinkling out of the tip of the tube (US addition). ]

[ The tube retracts back into the GIGAZORD's chest. ]

[ Pulling its sword free, the GIGAZORD punches the MEGA KESTRELZORD, causing a flash of sparks.  It then high-kicks the robot in the chest, causing another flash. ]

[ The MEGA KESTRELZORD staggers back but assumes a ready stance. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME turns away from the controls and approaches the three captive RANGERS.  He kicks the BATTLE ENFORCER away from YELLOW, toward the entranceway. ]

MAINFRAME:
Sorry, Rangers.  You miscalculated.

[ MAINFRAME ponders. ]

MAINFRAME (cont'd):
I think probably your biggest mistake was thinking you had any chance against a technopath inside a giant machine.

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
Yeah, well, you made a mistake too, Mainframe.

[ MAINFRAME retorts amusedly. ]

MAINFRAME:
And what's that?

[ DILLIK's voice comes from behind him. ]

DILLIK (off-screen):
Taking on all of us.

[ MAINFRAME spins to find DILLIK at the entranceway aiming the BATTLE ENFORCER at him.  DILLIK pulls the trigger, blasting MAINFRAME with a potent yellow beam.  MAINFRAME erupts in sparks and staggers aside. ]

[ DILLIK moves in front of the RANGERS, such that the cockpit's front glass is behind MAINFRAME.  He then fires again twice more, each blast knocking MAINFRAME back with a heavy burst of sparks.  DILLIK fires yet again, the final blast sending MAINFRAME flying back and shattering through the glass. ]

[ EXT. CITY STREET (US footage) - Smoking, MAINFRAME falls and lands on the street below. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - The three RANGERS break away from their restraints.  DILLIK hands the BATTLE ENFORCER back to YELLOW RANGER. ]

[ BLACK moves toward the broken glass. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
Nice job, Dillik.  Can you watch the Gigazord?

[ DILLIK nods. ]

DILLIK:
You bet.

[ The RANGERS climb onto the console and jump out the hole in the glass. ]

[ EXT. CITY STREET (US footage) - As MAINFRAME stands up from the asphalt (not smoking, and with no sign of weakness), the five RANGERS land around him, each holding a BATTLE ENFORCER with a BATTLIZER brace on his or her wrist. ]

CHRIS (Black Ranger):
It's over, Mainframe.

[ MAINFRAME's image fades away like a hologram, revealing a NOBOT. ]

[ The RANGERS are startled. ]

DR. BERING (Red Ranger):
What??

[ The NOBOT explodes, knocking the RANGERS back in various directions.  They soon recover. ]

[ Sentai (Jetman #41) - The MEGA KESTRELZORD towers overhead. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME approaches the Megazord's controls.  He is still smoking slightly.  (The cockpit's glass remains cracked.) ]

MAINFRAME:
Come on, Rangers, don't you know a Nobot when you see one?  (looks around)  By the way, were you done with this?

[ EXT. CITY STREET (US footage) - The RANGERS look on. ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
Oh man, not again!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #44) - The GIGAZORD's eyes open. ]

[ The GIGAZORD flexes, and we see its hands unclenching in the reflection of a nearby building (a Japanese sign is replaced with a nondescript US billboard or is airbrushed out entirely). ]

[ The GIGAZORD roars, and a small plume of steam vents from its neck. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - DILLIK mans the controls.  The glass remains broken. ]

DILLIK:
Gigazord, power up!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - Its sword in hand, the GIGAZORD charges. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME chuckles and sits in the center seat.  He places his hands on the control panel. ]

MAINFRAME:
(chuckles)  This could be entertaining.

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - As the MEGA KESTRELZORD charges, the GIGAZORD strikes it in passing with its sword.  The GIGAZORD then spins with a second slash. ]

[ EXT. CITY STREET (US footage) - The RANGERS watch anxiously. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The GIGAZORD spins the MEGA KESTRELZORD over its head and then throws it.  The MEGA KESTRELZORD crashes to the ground nearby. ]

[ INT. MEGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME is shaken, but he coolly recovers. ]

MAINFRAME:
(shaken) Not bad.  Battlezord!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - As the MEGA KESTRELZORD rises, the BATTLEZORD springs out in front of it and begins shadow-boxing. ]

[ INT. GIGAZORD COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME stares down the Gigazord (off-screen). ]

MAINFRAME:
You can probably block the Quad Cannon blast, so let's try something new.  Battlezord, jump!

[ EXT. ANYWHERE (Jetman #45) - The MEGA KESTRELZORD charges and fires its chest beam. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The BATTLEZORD dives head-first through the air and is swept up by the passing flood of red energy. ]

[ We rapidly advance on the GIGAZORD. ]

[ The red beam strikes the GIGAZORD's stomach with a spark explosion, and an additional red surge floods through the GIGAZORD and bursts out the other side.  The GIGAZORD crackles with yellow electrical bolts. ]

[ The BATTLEZORD materializes on the other side from blue streaks of light.  It turns and presents its fist victoriously. ]

[ The GIGAZORD turns to face the BATTLEZORD, erupting in spark explosions as it does so.  The MEGA KESTRELZORD stands in the background. ]

[ EXT. CITY STREET (US footage) - The RANGERS cry out from below: ]

LISA (Blue Ranger):
Dillik!!

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The still-sparking GIGAZORD drops to its knees.  It then collapses and explodes. ]

[ EXT. CITY STREET (US footage) - The RANGERS are hurled back by a wave of fire and metallic debris.  A larger, even-shaped hunk of metal even squashes a parked car a short distance behind them. ]

[ EXT. CITY (Jetman #45) - The MEGA KESTRELZORD flies up into the air (footage reversed from sentai).  It then gleams with bluish-white light (US effect). ]

[ INT. CRUISER COCKPIT (US footage) - MAINFRAME leans over and waves to those below.  The front of the cockpit now sports its black overhang.  The front glass retains its crack. ]

MAINFRAME:
So long, Rangers!  Thanks for the Zords!

[ EXT. ANYWHERE (Jetman #32) - In its customary grid, the KESTREL MEGA CRUISER retracts its wings and shimmers with multicolored energy. ]

[ EXT. SKY (US footage) - Gleaming with greenish-yellow energy, the KESTREL MEGA CRUISER streaks into the distance at high speed with a bright blue contrail (compare with Jetman #32).  Almost immediately, it is gone.  A loud sonic boom follows. ]

[ EXT. CITY STREET (US footage) - As the smoke and debris settles, the RANGERS pick themselves up and regroup.  They appear stunned.  (They retain their BATTLIZER braces and BATTLE ENFORCERS.) ]

PETE (Yellow Ranger):
I can't believe it...

[ The nearby hunk of metal splits open, revealing itself to be a constructed entity of some sort.  From within emerges DILLIK, unharmed although slightly disoriented. ]

DILLIK:
Wow, that was some landing.  I'm glad I built that escape pod, though.  (looks around)  Hey, where'd the Mega Kestrelzord go?

[ The RANGERS have no answer.  "To be continued..."  Fade to black. ]

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