Episode 4: Chasing Shadows; Hunt for the Lupin Collection
A few minutes later...
Now you are probably wondering, what have we aka the Patrangers have been doing? Well guess you'll find out huh? Anyway, it's been some time since Chief has contacted us. All we've been doing is just chilling out. Snails has been at work writing something on a desk. Snips is busy playing video games downstairs. Sunset Shimmer is looking through some info on her phone while Twilight is reading a book about the world and it's history. As for me, being the unpredictable that I am, I went off to do shopping. Arriving at the nick of time with groceries, I bring the bags to the kitchen. Taking a stretch, I check up on the others. Before I can say a thing, we hear beeping.
“Guys, incoming message from ACME,” says Twilight.
“Patch it through,” Snails replies.
Twilight takes out her ACME pen that she always carries and presses the top of it. She then throws it on the ground, causing it to stand vertically. We then see the Chief but not Chief Thigpen. It's Tamara Fraser. Something's amiss.
“I apologize for contacting you but it's a matter of urgency,” says Chief Tamara.
“What is this about Chief?” Snails asks.
“Carmen Sandiego and her team were spotted in Indonesia today. However what brings our attention is something unexpected. Take a look at the photo we sent you,” She explains.
Twilight checks the tablet. What we then see is a shock and she then says, “No way.”
We all get to see the picture. It's LupinKaiser, fighting against the Gangler Snapjaw. How did ACME get this, we probably won't know but this only makes things a bit intense by the second.
“Isn't that GoodStriker?” Snips wonders.
“It is. But don't those three parts look familiar?” Snails asks.
“Yep. They're the same as the Dial Fighters the Lupinrangers have,” He follows.
“This further confirms that GoodStriker is a wild card. It works with whatever team when it feels like it,” Tamara tells us.
“We learned that the hard way after forming the PatKaiser Megazord,” Snails says, “He didn't take us calling him Goody very well.”
“Have you checked the social media feeds?” Sunset asks.
“We have. It's as you would surmise it. People are talking about it to the point where they are using that hashtag,” Tamara replies.
“Yep. That hashtag. Figures,” I follow.
“Remember when we had to beat that Gangler by using PatKaiser? That was the start of it. Now THEY are the ones getting their chance in the limelight... even if they don't have a clue,” Snails tells us.
“It's clear that Carmen and her team are taking the fight to VILE. Bear in mind that sooner or later, you Rangers will have to cross paths with them. You are still on your day off but my mother insists that you head for ACME HQ first thing tomorrow. Apparently she has something she wishes to discuss with you all. Use this time to prepare,” Tamara tells us as communication was cut.
Now our focus at hand is the showing of LupinKaiser and the response that is happening in social media. Twilight is already at work checking it out. People are going nuts. Many are using the hashtag that we first saw earlier, #PowerRangersAreReal. Photos of LupinKaiser are shown. Comparisons between both Lupin and PatKaiser are shown. Not only that but some photos are shown of the Lupinrangers. Having them seen is enough for them to know that this is nuts.
“This is getting ridiculous!” Snails says in disgust.
“Why? Because people know that stuff that was on TV is real?” Snips asks.
“I'm not concerned for that. We know that Power Rangers is a fictional tv show. But separating reality from fiction is a difficult task,” He tells him.
“Dude. We use these powers for good and fighting against evil. You think that's enough?” I speak.
“Uh Roy,” Twilight replies.
“It's not that simple,” Sunset interrupts, “You know kids watch the show and when they find out that Power Rangers are real, they're going to try to imitate what we're doing. People can get hurt.”
“Problem is, ACME isn't going to let us make a statement about this. The only thing that we should focus right now is find out what they want. We'll figure that all out first thing tomorrow.,” Snails tells us.
“Good idea. It's actually the best option anyway. I brought groceries so I got to work rearranging everything,” I reply.
“Smart of ya to do the shopping for a change,” Twilight tells me.
“I am the culinary artist of the group right? Pray we ain't ordering takeout today,” I follow.
I head for the kitchen to work on fixing the groceries. The rest all continue doing their activities. But now we know what is so perfectly clear. Now that the Lupinrangers have been spotted, the battle between both teams have only begun. However there's also the matter that because Power Rangers are real, especially in a world like this, it's going to lead to a lot of scrutiny. It won't matter though. Our job is to stop VILE while contending with the other Ranger team. Pretty fair don't you think?
VILE Island, at the same time...
Things in the Isle of VILE aren't going great. Learning that the Lupinrangers are back in the fight and that their plans went down the crapper is enough to get everyone on edge. Maelstrom is annoyed, upon seeing the Lupinrangers being able to take down the Gangler without much effort. Bellum is more towards disappointment since her plan failed. The others can only look in disgust towards seeing it.
“Those god damn Lupinrangers! Having to foil our plan even after getting whooped by those other brats. Shadowsan was proven right,” says Coach Brunt.
“As I said, a beast is more dangerous when cornered and it's no exception,” Shadowsan replies.
“We were unable to recover the candidate like the previous ones,” Bellum explains, “It seems we will have to find yet another.”
“And then what?” Maelstrom asks her, “They'll fall just like the others. If we are to succeed in our plans, we must have candidates that are capable for the task! So far, this Gangler Project you've created has failed to bear fruit! Made no better by our efforts to obtain the Lupin Collection!”
“Then if we are to ensure that it bears fruit, we must take the initiative,” Bellum suggests, “One where we can turn the situation at hand to our favor.”
“And how exactly do you plan on doing so? Let us not forget that there's one other concern at hand,” tells Countess Cleo.
Bellum already knows what that is, “If you are referring to my brother, he is nothing but a nuisance. He is of no concern to any of us.”
“No concern?” queries Coach Brunt, “Have you forgotten how he has chosen to go against everything VILE stands for?”
“As I said,” Bellum explains, “My brother is of little threat. Whatever he does will not affect us in the long run.”
“You better be right Dr. Bellum... for your sake and ours,” Maelstrom threatens.
Bellum doesn't say a word. She knows.
“Let us all get to the matter at hand and that is how to deal with both the Lupin and Pat Brats,” says Coach Brunt.
“It is as Dr. Bellum has stated before. We must use their animosity toward each other and use it to our advantage. Luckily for us we have found such a way,” explains Maelstrom.
“How do you propose that plan?” asks Shadowsan, “Will we have to rely on the Gangler to deal with them?”
“No. Not for this one. It'll only be done as a last resort. Have our operatives Le Chevre and El Toppo at the ready. We will need them for this,” replies Maelstrom. His smile growing ever so deviously. Whatever he has planned, it won't be pleasant that's for certain.
The next day... ACME HQ
With what Chief Tamara told us yesterday, we needed to find out what her mother has to say. Arriving at HQ, the five of us are about to find out. We appear in front of Chief Thigpen. She's already seated.
“The Patrangers reporting for duty Chief Thigpen,” says Snails.
“Very good,” She replies, “Please, be seated.”
Each of us sat at the table behind us. Chief presses a button on her desk. The lights dim and we then see a screen in front of us. It showed what we already saw yesterday.
“We've seen it yesterday courtesy of Twilight,” says Snails.
“I am aware,” Chief replies, “However this has confirmed that the Lupinranger are back on their feet.”
“Made no better seeing that GoodStriker has decided to side with them,” follows Snips.
“Correct. It is as you confirmed. GoodStriker is a wild card that only works with whoever he feels like,” she explains, “And this may prove to be a disadvantage for us.”
“It already is,” interrupts Sunset.
“How so?” Chief asks.
Sunset explains, “Let's just say that he doesn't seem to like us. Made no better due to Twilight having a Trigger Machine that shouldn't exist.”
“That is of little concern,” follows the Chief, shrugging that off.
Chief Thigpen continues, “As I was saying, with GoodStriker as he is, things will prove challenging for you. Our concern now is for what Carmen Sandiego and her band of thieving troublemakers will do next. Despite reports stating that they had sabotaged a VILE operation, they still are a threat to this organization.”
“What do we do? VILE along with the Lupinrangers will not make this easier especially when the Lupin Collection is on the line,” I respond.
“Which is why we here at ACME are giving you guys a needed edge,” She says.
“An edge?” Twilight wonders, “Like what?”
Chief presses the same button and the screen changes. What we see are several toy-like vehicles similar to the Trigger Machines. In fact, they are Trigger Machines. The first one was a motorcycle that was white but the wheels were black and blue. As for the other, it's a white and yellow vehicle that has some sort of crane. But inside it is a compartment for a small vehicle. Both of them have Triggers on it, symbolizing that they are meant for us.
“These. We recently got in touch with the Global Police and they are providing us these auxiliary Trigger Machines. They are code named Biker and Crane. Using them will give you Rangers the edge you need in the fight against VILE, and the Lupinrangers,” She explains.
“Freaking sweet,” I tell her, “Guess we'll have the advantage we need don't we?”
“Precisely. You will be expecting the Trigger Machines shortly. As for new assignments, there is none as of yet but remember to remain vigilant,” Chief tells us. Before she has us dismissed, we hear someone trying to reach us.
She's quick to answer, however, “This is Chief Thigpen, report.”
“Chief Thigpen, this is ACME agent Louis reporting. We've encountered the Global Police but something intercepted us!” says the Agent.
“Intercepted? Like what?!” Her voice suddenly rises upon learning this.
“I don't know. Some kind of monster... with a safe! We need assistance! Our agents can't handle this thing!”
Chief's expression says it all. It's like she says “Dammit!” under her breath but if an agent's in trouble, we have our work cut out for us don't we. The Chief sees us, knowing that there's a job to do.
“I don't need to tell you this agents but some of our operatives requires assistance,” Chief says, “Your objective is simple: assist the agents, take down the Gangler and then bring the goods back. Is that clear?”
All five of us got up, turn to the Chief and say, “Yes ma'am!”
“Good,” Chief then presses something in her desk, “I've activated the C-5 Corridor, locking onto the agent's signal. Now get going! We're counting on you!”
We shout “Yes ma'am!” once more and then get in the corridor. Hopefully we make it there unlike the last time this happened. Chief already had to fire someone because they screwed up. Meanwhile in another part of the city, a group of agents are struggling against a Gangler. The so-called “monster of the episode” looks like some kind of penguin knight. It has a blue and magenta helmet while it's body is of the same two colors. The arms are dark grey with hot pink skeleton-like arms with gray hands. He has indigo pants and has blue and orange penguin-like feet. He looks like a knight since he packs a light red long sword. He's already tearing much of the city block to shreds courtesy of his blade. The agents are hiding behind a damaged vehicle. It also doesn't help that the monster in question is carrying what appears to be a silver briefcase. But suddenly he notices the C-5 Corridor opening up. He knows that we're coming to take him out but what he doesn't know is that we have a surprise for him.
“Huh? What's that?” It says.
Before he knows it, we strike. A shot is fired striking it in his hand. It causes the briefcase to drop to the ground. Next thing he knows, Snips rushes from behind with a kick that hits him below. It disorients him. This allows Snails to rush in and get the briefcase, heading into the corridor behind the monster.
“No! My prize!” He then growls in anger, “You brats think you're clever huh?”
“Clever no. Strategic yes,” I tell him, “But fortunately we can send you to a jail cell though.”
“Don't think so pal. The name's Knightron and I'm making sure I leave with my prize!” He tells us.
“You'll get your prize alright,” says Snails, aiming his VS Changer at the monster, “Once you end up in custody that is!”
“Fat chance! Know what I'm capable of? Let me show ya!” it shouts as its safe starts glowing and then suddenly he jumps. But it's not just any jump, it's a really long one.
Snails has no idea what he's doing next and even if he did, he wouldn't expect it. Suddenly the monster comes slamming down, letting off a shock wave that disorients him. In turn it causes Snails to drop the briefcase. That's enough for Knightron to jump in (literally) and get it. He turns to see Knightron with briefcase in tow. Pleased with reclaiming it, he jumps off, using some strange power to increase his jumping power and speed.
“Got what I wanted!” shouts Knightron, “He who fights and runs away lives to fight another day!”
The rest of the Rangers appear as Snails begin venting out his frustrations on a nearby damaged car. Yeah. It sucks but man what could he do? Honestly.
“Hey,” I tell him, “Listen!”
No matter what I say, it falls on deaf ears. It gets to the point where he's just pissed off. Eventually he gets my attention but before he decides to lash out on me, Sunset shows up stopping him.
“Calm down Snails,” Sunset tells him, “With rage like that, is it any wonder you get angry this easily?”
“Shut it!” He shouts, “How did we screw this up?!”
“Did you forget that the Gangler in question has a Lupin piece?” Twilight tells him.
This catches Snails by surprise and his utter stupidity shows in this. He calms down a few seconds later. Thank goodness. I swear, he can be a caring person but very impulsive at times. Guess that's what happens when he is truly emotional. Suddenly we hear beeping so I take out my ACME Pen, activate it and throw it on the ground. It rises up and shows the Chief herself. She's not too pleased.
“What exactly happened?!” She says.
“To be a bit blunt, we tried to help the Agents only for the Gangler to outwit us,” Snips replies.
“Where are the agents?” Chief wonders, “Our priority is finding out if they are alright.”
“They're right there, hiding behind a damaged van,” says Sunset.
“I will take care of things. Continue with your mission. Recover the stolen goods and bring them back here is that clear?” She orders.
“Yes Chief,” Snails answers.
Before we head off to find Knightron, Chief has one last thing to tell him, “One more thing. Snails you need to keep your emotions in check. I don't want to find out that your impulses cost you the mission.”
“It could be worse. He could be going on the warpath taking down anything that's in the way,” I tell her.
Having had enough of my constant blathering, Snails strikes my stomach with his elbow. It hit hard and I reeled in pain. Sunset and Twilight look at me and they had chuckles in their faces. They knew I deserved that.
Snails turns to me and replies, “Can you shut up?!”
He then shifts his attention back to the Chief, “I'll keep my feelings in check... provided he can keep his mouth shut.”
“Very well. Now what are you waiting for, get going!” She tells us.
Communication is then ceased. I get up after that hit but their attention turns straight toward me. Yeah. They aren't happy with it but honestly, that doesn't matter.
“You really need to keep yourself in check. I ain't going to tolerate your shenanigans Roy!” Snails tells me.
“Fine,” I reply, “If anyone that needs to keep themselves in check, it's you.”
“Forget it! Right now, we need to get moving. Twilight, can you track the Gangler in your tablet?” Snails asks.
She nods and says, “I can. Since it's on the move, we can pinpoint where it'll likely end up.”
Twilight checks her tablet and accesses a map. She then sees several spots on the map, possibly the Gangler moving about. Perfect.
“He's right now six blocks from where we are now. We need to move fast!” Twilight tells us.
“Then let's do this! The sooner we move it, the better!” Snails replies.
I activate my motorcycle and am on the move. This gets Snails a little irate that I would do this but the mission comes first.
“Listen. Let's just focus on getting that Gangler first,” tells Sunset, “We can worry about Roy after this.”
“Fair enough,” He tells her, without looking at her, “Sunset, can you take the wheel?”
“I'll do that! Twilight, keep that map application on! We'll need it to find that freak!” Sunset follows.
The four head into a nearby ACME vehicle and drive off. I had a head start. Thanks to Twilight, I have a good idea of where it'll end up. Meanwhile, said Gangler named Knightron has met up with its destination. In this case it's Le Chevre and El Toppo.
“You guys are the ones I have to meet? I thought I'd be expecting the Cleaners,” He says.
“Did you bring what we asked?” asks El Toppo.
“I did,” He replies, showing them the briefcase he has in his pillow.
“Wow, he did it,” says Le Chevre, “We were lucky to get our hands on the other briefcase.”
“This is all too easy,” replies El Toppo, “Now we can use them both to spring our plan. Wait... what was the plan?”
“You guys are dumb,” insults Knightron, “Point is. We are to get these and use them to force both teams against each other.”
“Oh right. I forgot,” El Toppo remembers.
“So VILE's letting you two handle this job? I wonder why you were even considered operatives,” says a feminine voice that catches the three's attention. They turn to see Carmen and her team appearing in front of them.
“What the? It's them. The Black Sheep and her band of misfits,” says Le Chevre, already freaked out by their arrival.
“Misfits? No wonder VILE dumped you guys for this gig,” Carmen replies, “Now then, hand over what you have there. I can tell you guys have been busy.”
“Never Black Sheep! Our orders were to hold onto these. We ain't giving them up!” El Toppo replies, holding onto one of the two briefcases tightly.
“Carm, we tried the easy way,” follows Zack, “Can we just do things the hard way.”
“I was insisting that we would do this quickly but why not. We can find out what they stole after we beat them down,” Carmen tells him.
“Beat us down? Surely you guys must be crazy to think you can take on Knightron. Believe you me. I can handle all of you at once!” Knightron shouts, ready to go gung-ho against them.
“So this is the new monster they got?” wonders Ivy, “Looks like a penguin.”
“Hey lady! I'm no penguin. I'm a knight. The name's Knightron and you guys are on my list to get whooped!” shouts Knightron, feeling insulted.
“If it means taking you out to get what's in these, fair game for us,” replies Carmen as her team gets ready to throw down. But just as they did, the Patrangers arrive aka us.
“Speak of the devil,” says Carmen, as the other team arrives.
“Just our luck. So not only did we find the Gangler but the Lupins as well. Two for the price of one I'd say,” shouts Snails, who takes out his VS Changer and aims it at not only the Lupinrangers but also Knightron.
“Yep,” replies Snips but notices something off. He sees two silver briefcases. One in the hands of Knightron and the other being held onto by El Toppo.
“Wait a second. Why are VILE holding onto two briefcases?” Snips asks the team.
“Two?” Snails wonders, “Something isn't right. Either way, we should be cautious.”
“Wait a minute. You guys are after what's in there too?” Ivy wonders.
“We're the ones asking the questions, not you,” replies Sunset, who has her VS Changer aimed like the others.
“Guess we'll just have to take things the hard way won't we?” Carmen tells him.
“Yep. I take it you guys have recovered from our last clash? All the more easier for us to ensure you guys are put in cuffs,” Snails replies.
Carmen nods, then tells him, “Sorry. It won't happen this time. We're here to claim what's in the briefcases.”
“Resisting? Surely you jest,” Snails follows, “Let's make this simple. You have two options. Option A is that you all come quietly without a fuss.”
“And if you guys say no, there's always Option B. We kick your asses and put you in cuffs. How's that?” Snips says, interrupting the team leader.
“Do you always have to interrupt me?” Snails asks him.
“Sorry. Can't help it,” Snips replies.
“Anyway, so what will it be? No matter how you look at it, you all are going in cuffs,” Snails tells everyone that he's seeing whether it be the Lupins or VILE themselves.
“Sorry but,” replies Carmen as she takes out her Dial Fighter and VS Changer, “We're not going down without a fight.”
“So much for option A,” Snips replies. Snails isn't the least bit amused by this, “By the way, where's Roy?”
“Yeah, where is that guy?” Sunset wonders.
“Uh guys,” follows Twilight as they all see me riding is on a motorcycle.
Their reactions are as expected. As for me, I'm riding straight at the Gangler at full speed. Knightron notices me and wonders what the hell I'm doing. Once I'm at a high enough speed, I do something that is truly stupid. Stupid would be an understatement. Reckless would be the better word. I get on my two feet and using the speed as a means of propulsion jumped and delivered a “Rider Kick” striking Knightron. The hit alone causes him to let go of the briefcase he was holding. I grab it with what little push I have and land on the ground safely. Although my actions did get us the briefcase, I would end up getting scrutiny from my own friends.
“What the hell is wrong with you?!” Snails shouts, angry that I did something so careless.
“I got the briefcase from that clown. What more do you guys want?” I reply.
Snails gets ready to deliver a smack to my face but then the Gangler shouts, “Hey! Give me that back! I stole it first!”
“Sorry pal. That belongs to us. We'll also be taking that other briefcase now,” I reply.
Toppo and Chevre start freaking out while I head to go after them. Knightron ain't letting that crap happen, “You idiots! Get going now! I'll deal with the pests.”
“Uh, y-yeah. Sure. Come on Chevre. Let's go!” says Toppo. The two run off, forcing me to go after them.
“Guys, deal with the monster. I'll go after those losers!” I tell them.
“Roy, wait!” responds Sunset.
“Leave him. He's just doing us a favor,” Snails assures her, before shifting attention to the Lupins, “Guess we'll have to do this the hard way huh?”
“Fine by us!” Carmen tells him before asking her teammates, “Ready?”
“Oh how I'm enjoying this,” Zack replies.
“Let's do this! We take care of them, the Gangler and get the goods. Ready?” Snails asks. The others don't say a word, as they also get ready.
“Lupin, go after Roy. We'll handle things,” orders Carmen.
“No need. I'm already on the move,” Enigma replies, going on ahead, not knowing that Knightron is standing there watching things unfold.
The four Lupins gear themselves up. They then yell out, “Kaitou Change!”
While the four Patrangers gear up and follow with, “Keisatsu Change!”
Each of the Rangers insert their respective pieces into their VS Changers. The Dial Fighters are inserted above while the Trigger Machines inserted below.
“Red! 0-1-0!” “1Gou!”
“Blue! 2-6-0!” “2Gou!”
“Yellow! 1-1-6!” “3Gou!”
“Pink! 9-1-3!” “4Gou!”
“Masqueraise!” “Patirize!”
Once that's done, they pull the levers and turn their respective changers so that they can gear up to morph.
“Kaitou Change!” “Keisatsu Change!”
All eight rangers aim their changers and fire transforming into Power Rangers, respectively. Without wasting time (and skipping the roll call apparently), they all go in and battle each other. It's nuts and in some cases, exactly what VILE was expecting things to occur. Knightron, seeing the battles between them unfold, decides to add their own flair into the mix.
“Just the way the five wanted,” says Knightron, seeing the fight unfold, “Let's add a little shock to the mix eh? Oh Cleaners! Deal with the pests!”
Out of nowhere, several individuals (looking exactly like Boris and Vlad) appear around Knightron, armed with long rods that can jolt anyone or anything that touches it. It catches both Ranger teams off guard.
“Are you serious?” says Carmen.
“Guess VILE knew about all this,” replies Snails, noticing the Cleaners go in to attack the Rangers.
It goes from two teams fighting each other to a full-fledged free for all. Both the Lupinrangers and the Patrangers not only have to contend with the Cleaners but also each other. Luckily for us Pat Brats, we always know how to deal with assholes like them. Snails uses his Patrol Baton to deflect their attacks and like a samurai/fencer, he makes sure to deliver the pain.
“You guys are child's play,” He sees two Cleaner mooks go in to attack. Snails responds with two slash attacks.
Each slash damages the Cleaner robot. They go down without much effort but then more show up to attack, forcing him to respond with a blast to the face courtesy of his VS Trigger. With that distraction out of the way, he goes in to take on Carmen aka LupinRed. As for the others, they're doing what they can against the Cleaners and each other. Zack does what he can against the bots while Snips specializes in brute force to bash the bots. But sometimes brute force doesn't cut it. He takes his VS Changer and blocks an attack by one of the Boris bots. This gives him an idea.
“You will submit power pest,” it says.
“Think so? You wish!” Snips replies as he aims his VS Changer and fires a shot straight at his chest. He then fires one at his head, wiping it out.
He twirls his changer for a bit and his idea is kicking in almost immediately. Turning to Sunset, he asks, “Sunset! Pass me your blaster!”
“Huh?” Sunset wonders, “You mean this?”
“Yeah! I got an idea to take down these junk bots!” Snips says.
“Fine by me,” Sunset then takes her blaster with her VS Changer inside and throws it at him.
He grabs it and says, “Thanks.” He then twirls both guns and gears himself for some serious blasting.
Without wasting a second, he opens fire on a group of Cleaners. They don't even have a second to react before they end up feeling the fury of a ranger's continuous assaults. It catches Zack off guard as he was fighting a few of these bots. Seeing Snips twirling the two blasters and taunting him, it's enough to get him riled.
“Up for a rematch? I can tell Beantown is disappointed with that defeat,” Snips says, taunting Zack and his love for his hometown.
“No one calls Boston 'Beantown'. You hear me?!” Zack replies, already pissed.
“What are you waiting for?” He asks him, “Let's go!”
Zack goes in to attack Snips but he throws his blaster at Sunset. She grabs it, firing off a shot that sends a Cleaner's head off. He then puts his blaster away and decides to use his fists to do battle, assuming a boxing stance. Zack attacks him relentlessly, angered by Snips' insults. To be fair, the insults does make it an advantage but it can lead to major trouble if he doesn't know what he's doing. Zack left himself plenty of openings for Snips to attack and he does so. He delivers three jabs followed by a right hook that has Zack reeling into the ground.
“What's wrong Zachary? Is that it?” Snips asks him, “I thought you would put up more of a fight compared to last time. Guess you got rusty bean boy.”
Having heard enough insults from him, Zack goes in to attack but this time he's expecting Snips to avoid. As he counters his attack, Zack uses the Lupin Sword to strike Snips and he does so hard. It catches him off guard. This is what happens when you insult people man. He shakes it off and then moves his head a bit, letting off a crack or two from his neck.
“Finally,” He mutters, “He actually is giving me a challenge for once. Well, can't disappoint him.”
Snips goes in to fight against Zack and for once, the two are evenly matched. While this goes on, Sunset and Twilight are teaming up to take down the Cleaners. Two heads are always better than one. Or in some cases, better than a bunch of robotic mooks.
“Ready Twi?” Sunset asks.
“I'm born ready,” Twilight replies.
The two go in, with weapons in tow, blast away the Cleaners. As that happens, Ivy along with Patty try their best against the Cleaners. But as they see our team making them look easy, she decides to take matters into her own hands.
“These guys are way too much,” Patty says, turning her Lupin Sword into a whip.
She then goes into a serious whiplash, slicing and dicing the Cleaner robots until they were reduced to fodder. It's insane. It catches Sunset and Twilight off guard but man, this is what happens when you got to deal with a whip-happy dominatrix.
“Now that we got these dumb bots out of the way, let's focus on the big guns,” She says, centering her attention on Knightron.
“If you think you brats are going to get what's in my safe, you're wrong!” He shouts, now going in to attack the Rangers.
Only problem. They got to deal with the Patrangers too. Sunset and Twilight come in with a jump kick, striking Knightron. It disorients him so he takes out his sword and attacks the two ladies. Then the Lupins come in with their own assault. This gets him mad so he uses the power of the Lupin piece to jump high into the air in the hopes of disorienting all sides. He strikes down, delivering a tremor that affects everyone involved. While this happens, I'm on the move going after the two delinquents Toppo and Chevre.
As I chase them down, I get in touch with the Chief back at ACME. I hope she connects because let's face it. Trying to chase down two thieves while being chased is enough to get anyone stressed out.
“Chief, it's me. I got the briefcase but I'm chasing down Toppo and Chevre while being chased by Enigma,” I tell her.
“This is the Chief. We're locking onto your signal,” Chief replies, “We need you to check what's inside the case you are holding onto.”
“Copy,” I tell her, opening the briefcase while chasing down the thieves. To my surprise, the two Trigger Machines are inside.
“Chief, the case has the Trigger Machines inside. Is there a way you can teleport these away?” I ask.
“We got a look. Those are the items in question. However, we're unable to teleport them away. You'll have to hold onto them until you deal with them. Do NOT let them fall into the hands of the Lupinrangers. Is that clear?” She orders.
“Yes chief,” I tell her, ending communication.
I catch up to the two thieves and then pull a high jump to get in front of them. Catching them by surprise, they stop in their tracks.
“Boys. I recommend you drop that. It doesn't belong to you,” I tell them.
“And it shouldn't belong to you either,” replies Enigma, catching up.
“Took you long enough,” I tell him, “You ready to go another round or what?”
“I'm only here for that briefcase. Hand it over, now!” He orders me.
“Sorry but I ain't giving that up without a fight,” I follow, taking out my X Changer. Enigma does the same.
Since I'm holding one of the two briefcases, I had to improvise in order to morph. Enigma rushes at me, twirling his X Changer to assume his Kaitou Change.
“Keisatsu Change!” I shout. Moving my wrist to assume morphing position so that the X Changer can be set.
“Kaitou Change!” He shouts, after finishing up, aiming it at me.
We both fire, the V and S logo appear in front and strike. I transform into Patren X while Enigma becomes Lupin X. He goes in to attack me but I'm quick enough to dodge. Unfortunately I end up dropping the briefcase. Thankfully I'm quick to grab it before Enigma does. The other issue I have to contend with are Toppo and Chevre. They ain't giving that up without a fight. Lucky for me, I have ways to make them fight each other.
“Hand over the briefcase!” Enigma shouts.
“Are you this fired up over it? You really need to drop it!” I reply, deflecting his assaults from his X-Rod Sword.
“Shouldn't you focus on them? They have what you're looking for,” I tell him.
“I'll go after them once I'm done with you!” He replies.
In his blindness, he rushes in to attack only for me to dodge. I respond by kicking him in the back. He then crashes into Toppo and Chevre. All three hit the ground and it's just a sad sight.
“So determined to go after me that you forget that you underestimate an experienced operative,” I tell him.
“Just cause you have these powers doesn't mean you are experienced. You don't have what it takes to be a ranger!” Enigma shouts.
“How about I prove that to you,” I follow, “I'd like to stay... but I got to get going.”
I throw the briefcase into the air. Using both the X Changer and the X Rod Sword, I use them both to unleash a blinding flare that blinds Enigma and the two thieves. As a means to escape, that's the only option I have. Enigma notices a briefcase nearby and without delay, grabs it from the blinding Chevre. Sure he may not be proud of what he's doing but hey, at least that's something right?
“You got lucky Starfall,” mutters Enigma, “Next time we meet, I'll take you and ACME out.”
As this goes on, the battle between the Gangler and the Rangers intensify. However the fight between the two Red Rangers continue forth. Carmen and Snails are evenly matched. Having learned her lesson from the last fight, Carmen doesn't hesitate in going on the offensive against him. Noticing this, he decided to amp up his own offense. That's pretty fair huh?
“Guess you learned your lesson huh?” says Snails, deflecting some of Carmen's strikes.
“I ain't letting you get this victory!” Carmen replies, putting up more of a fight. She relies a bit more on acrobatics to outwit him.
Snails responds by firing a few shots from his VS Changer. She dodges all the blasts and then responds with her own. He deflects them with his Patrol Baton. He then goes in for an attack just as Carmen does the same. The two strike, sparks flying out from their weapons.
“Not bad,” He says, catching his breath.
“I can say the same for you,” She replies, before going to attack him once more. Lucky for him, he steps back to dodge the attack.
“Not this time!” He shouts, countering with an assault of his own. Carmen dodges and decides to jump over him, using said Patranger as a stepping stone to reach her teammates.
“Huh?” He wonders, turning his attention towards Carmen as she reaches her teammates.
“You guys having any luck?” Carmen asks them.
“Against that penguin? No way!” Zack replies, seeing that the Patrangers aren't doing any better.
“I got an idea,” Ivy suggests, noticing someone rushing forward, “But we got to move quick!”
The three Lupinrangers rush in against Knightron. It attacks as Carmen and Zack jump over the attack while Ivy slides under it. Taking her Dial Fighter out, she slaps it on Knightron's safe. The combination soon blurts out in response.
“5-9-4!”
“What? No!” It shouts.
The safe opens. Ivy's able to grab the Lupin Piece at just the right time. Snails comes in to deliver a powerful attack courtesy of the Refusal to Comply Strike. All three Lupinrangers jump over Knightron. Snails then delivers a series of slash attacks, striking Knightron. But it isn't enough to take it down completely. Snails looks to see that his assault damaged the Gangler and not the Lupinrangers. His reaction is one of shock.
“Thanks for helping us out,” Carmen tells him, “It made it easier for us to get the Lupin Piece.”
“Dammit!” Snails shouts in response. However he feels a bit drained because he used the attack.
“Guess that thing isn't giving up without a fight,” Zack replies, seeing Knightron still standing after the attack.
Angered that the Lupinrangers stole the Lupin Piece, he unleashes his fury on the Patrangers, using a slash attack to strike 1Gou. He blocks it but having been drained of his energy for that Zettai Giri, he's able to barely deflect the blast. He hangs in there. Nothing's going to stop him, although I show up at just the wrong time.
“I take it you guys are having a hard time ain't ya?” I ask in a joking fashion.
In a fit of anger, Snails rasps, “Where the hell have you been?”
Holding onto the briefcase, I tell him, “Trying to keep this away from Enigma... and those VILE idiots.”
“By the way, were you able to find out if they're what we're looking for?” Sunset asks.
I nod at her in response, “Yep.”
“Then how come there were two of these instead of one?” Snips asks.
“I don't know. They're looking into it with the GSPO, wondering what happened,” I explain.
Suddenly we get a communication from ACME. Snails is the first to answer, “Chief, what is it?”
“Have you recovered the briefcase?” Chief asks us.
Looking at me with the briefcase in my possession, he answers, “Yes. We did.”
“Roy has already shown us what's inside. You accomplished your mission. Well done,” Chief tells us.
“But what about the Gangler? The Lupinrangers are there too. We're ordered to capture them!” Snails explains to her.
But the Chief doesn't want to hear any more of it. She replies, “I didn't give you the order to capture the Lupinrangers! Your orders were to take down the Gangler and recover the briefcase.”
“But Chief,” He says.
Chief quickly interrupts, “But nothing! Return to ACME at once. That's an order.”
Feeling bummed about it, he tells her, “As you wish. We're returning to base now. We got what we came for.”
He then looks at me and says, “You and I are going to have a talk.”
I don't say a thing to him. The five of us teleport out of the battlefield, having accomplished our goal. As for the Lupinrangers, they still got to deal with the Gangler. Only thing missing is Lupin X, who shows up unexpectedly. He's carrying a silver briefcase in tow.
“Where have you been?” Carmen asks him.
“Trying to deal with that bastard Starfall, only for him to get away! Dammit!” He shouts.
“Never mind. You did get that briefcase right?” She asks again.
“I have it here. What of it?” Enigma asks.
“I'll explain later. Right now we need to take down that thing,” She orders.
“And how are we gonna do that?” Zack tells her.
“With me of course,” interrupts GoodStriker, coming in flying out of the blue.
“It's GoodStriker,” Patty says.
“What are you doing here?” Ivy wonders.
“I figure you need a bit of help. Carmen isn't it? Insert me into the VS Changer then set the combination as follows: 3-2-1,” He asks her.
Carmen doesn't need a second to figure it out. She takes GoodStriker and inserts it into her VS Changer. She then hears “GoodStriker” and then does the combination as follows.
“3-2-1! Action!”
She pulls the lever and turns it causing something to happen. LupinBlue and LupinYellow enter into LupinRed but something happens. Instead of forming some kind of triple colored form, it causes LupinRed to summon two duplicates of herself.
“Make a game!” shouts GoodStriker as a result.
“Uh Carm? What just happened?” Zack wonders.
“Is it me or am I seeing... triple,” follows Ivy.
“Nope,” GoodStriker replies, “What you are seeing is the true power of our teamwork between myself and you. Why need one you can turn into three! Thieves always do work in pairs don't they?”
“I don't know what you did but if it means to take down VILE, I'm in,” Carmen tells it.
“Can we at least take the thing down?” Zack asks.
“Why not,” Carmen tells him.
The Rangers gear up to deliver a team-up finishing attack. Carmen aims her VS Changer (with GoodStriker) while her illusionary duplicates use Lupin Swords, gathering energy into them. Zack and Ivy aim their VS Changers at Knightron, building up energy. Patty uses her Lupin Sword in whip mode as Enigma gears his sword up for his signature One Shot X-Strike.
“Itadaki Strike!” GoodStriker shouts.
“Superior X!” shouts Enigma.
With everything charged, all five Rangers unleash their attacks on Knightron, combining into a beam of light that pierces the monster. It then collapses on the floor, exploding in a ball of flames. Toppo and Chevre saw the Gangler explode but then realize that wait, they have something that can turn the tide.
“What are you waiting for? Use the thing Bellum gave us!” shouts Toppo.
Chevre takes out the Gros calibre and fires it. Suddenly Knightron comes back up and next thing we see, he starts growing. It grows gigantic and that's only going to make the situation worse.
“I have returned! Knightron Version 2!” It shouts as it then goes on a warpath.
“Just great. Looks like we got a knight to crush,” says Carmen as her, Zack and Ivy gear up to summon their zords.
The three Lupinrangers launch their zords. But as Zack and Ivy board their zords, Enigma comes in with a little present.
“Wait,” Enigma tells her, opening the briefcase revealing two flying like machines. He takes out a green one and throws it to her, “Take this!”
Carmen grabs it and asks, “Wait. What's this?”
“Trust me. You'll need it. See you back at HQ,” Enigma answers.
Carmen jumps into her zord and the three go airborne. GoodStriker appears nearby, flying alongside them.
“Need a bit of help?” It asks.
“You really seem willing to help aren't you?” Carmen wonders.
“Of course. As a Lupin Collection piece, I have to!” replies GoodStriker.
Carmen then grabs GoodStriker, inserts it into the VS Changer, aims it and fires (while opening the zord's cockpit window). It grows almost immediately and it doesn't waste time. It gears up to begin the transformation sequence while the Red, Blue and Yellow Dial Fighter Zords get in position.
“Kaitou Gat-Time! Time to steal victory!” shouts GoodStriker.
GoodStriker's rotary lock turns as it rotates a full 180 degrees counter-clockwise. The three Dial Fighter zords fly through as they assume their positions. Each of the Dial Fighters' rotary locks rotate as they gear to join GoodStriker. First yellow, then blue and finally red. With all three connected, the Megazord was formed.
“Complete! LupinKaiser!”
LupinKaiser flies onto the battlefield, ready to take on the giant Knightron. Knightron doesn't waste time going on the offensive.
“Your little robot is no match for me!” Knightron shouts as he goes in with his sword in hand.
He strikes LupinKaiser with several slash attacks but it doesn't go down. No way, no how. Even though they hold their ground, the opposition continues to hit.
“This thing's gonna wreck us good!” says Carmen.
“Not if I have a say about it!” Ivy shouts.
LupinKaiser uses its yellow arm to counter Knightron's blade. But even with that, Knightron continues his onslaught. It's putting LupinKaiser in a bind. Not a good one to be exact. LupinKaiser then fires a few shots from it's gatling arm. Knightron did get hit a bit but it doesn't stop. He then strikes at the megazord twice and the second time has it crashing into the ground. The Rangers hang in there. Let's face it. These guys really have their work cut out for them.
“Uh Carm, I think we need a new plan and fast!” suggests Zack.
“That thing's gonna wreck us good!” shouts Ivy.
They get the Megazord standing and they suddenly get hit with a pounding. LupinKaiser hangs on but even that is doubtful with how things are coming along. But then Carmen notices that she still has the green machine that Enigma gave her. GoodStriker notices it and gets excited with a bit of glee.
“Well well, looks like you have another Dial Fighter there. Why not insert it in your VS Changer?” It suggests.
“Wait a second. THIS is a Dial Fighter?” asks Carmen.
“Of course. Now if you want to know what it can do, insert that in there,” Knowing that their chances are slim, they don't have a choice right now.
“Whatever you say,” Carmen tells it as she does so.
She then hears the sound “Cyclone!” from the VS Changer. She turns it into position and aims it straight. It causes the Megazord's face to rotate, giving it room and runway.
“Get Set! Ready! Tobe! Tobe! Tobe!” Carmen fires, causing the Cyclone Dial Fighter to start moving. It then grows in response while yelling out “C-C-Cyclone!” The machine in question turns out to be a large green flying copter.
“Now watch and see!” says GoodStriker.
The Yellow Dial Fighter's lock rotary rotates. It detaches itself from LupinKaiser allowing the Cyclone Dial Fighter to enter the megazord's right arm. It's rotary lock rotates as the handle that holds the copter blades split into two. With this new armament, LupinKaiser's ready for round two.
“Complete! LupinKaiser Cyclone!” It shouts.
“LupinKaiser Cyclone?” wonders Ivy.
“That's right. If you find more items like this, I can use their power to make ourselves even stronger,” GoodStriker tells them.
“So this means we can take VILE and their monsters down right?” Zack wonders.
“But of course. However you Rangers have a lot to learn if you are to tap into my full potential,” GoodStriker follows.
“We can worry about it later. Let's take down this penguin knight!” Carmen orders.
The others agree without hesitation. Knightron goes in to attack LupinKaiser but with the Cyclone Dial Fighter, they have a bigger advantage. It dodges Knightron's attacks with ease.
“Gotcha now!” shouts Ivy.
“LupinKaiser! Striking Tornado!”
The megazord's Cyclone arm begins to build energy via it's rotary blades. Suddenly they form green twisters, infusing them with energy. It sends Knightron flying into the air and it careens straight to the ground.
“Okay. That's cool,” says Ivy, “Let's send that freak flying!”
“Indeed,” Carmen replies, as the Lupinrangers gear up to deliver the finishing blow.
As the Rangers aim, GoodStriker speaks as they unleash their finishing attack, “Good Striker! Rapid Fire: Send You Flying Barrage!”
The Cyclone Dial Fighter activates a pair of twisters, sending it flying once more. This time, LupinKaiser fires a volley of gatling shots, targeting Knightron. The blasts hit him hard and good.
“Dammit! Dammit! Dammit!” It shouts as it explodes as a result of suffering so much damage from the assault. Such a bummer. But at least the Lupinrangers got the job done.
“Forevermore Adieu!” says GoodStriker.
“Thank god that's over,” replies Carmen, “We need to get ourselves going.”
“That's fine by me,” GoodStriker tells her, “I need to get going myself. Until we meet again!”
The Lupinrangers eject as GoodStriker detaches itself from the Rangers' zords and flies off to who knows where. Landing on the ground, the Rangers are relieved.
“Guess that job went well didn't it?” Carmen asks.
“Yep. We got what we came for, had fun with the Patrangers and you three took out one of VILE's Ganglers. I can say that was a job well done don't you think?” Enigma replies, asking her.
“Uh guys, what about them?” Zack wonders, pointing our attention to Toppo and Chevre. They're speechless over seeing the plans go up in smoke.
“Should we worry about these clowns?” Enigma asks.
“Nah. They're no threat. They can't even fight us if they want to,” Carmen replies.
“Well they should be thankful I'm not giving them whiplash. Let's get out of here before the Pat Brats show up again,” Patty tells the team.
“Knowing them, they're done for the day,” Ivy responds.
“Alright Double Trouble. Get us out of here,” Enigma says, communicating with his team back home.
The Rangers are teleported out of there. Chevre and Toppo can only watch as their plans went down the drain. What more can you do ya know? You clowns screwed up bad and I can tell VILE ain't going to be happy with it.
Meanwhile at ACME HQ...
as for us, we meet up with the Chief. I bring in the briefcase, since I did a good job trying to keep it out of the way of both VILE and the Lupins. As we sit down, Chief takes a look at the briefcase. She opens it. She sees the two Trigger Machines that she told us earlier. Guess I did a pretty good job huh?
“Well done Roy. Your efforts have ensured that the mission was a success,” praises Chief.
“Thank you. Although I had a minor inconvenience thanks to Enigma,” I reply.
“I wasn't notified that the Lupinrangers would show up. Not only that but I got in touch with the Global Police. They notified us that we were expecting two briefcases,” Chief tells us.
“I knew it,” Snips replies, “Why would there be two of them to begin with?”
“I simply have no clue. But regardless you have completed your mission. Despite this however, I am a bit concerned over your teamwork,” Next thing you know, everyone is staring at me.
“Okay. Why the hell are you guys putting the blame on me?” I ask them.
“For starters, you've being a loudmouth,” Snips replies.
“Then going on and doing something reckless,” follows Sunset.
“And not even telling us that you would do such a thing without my approval,” Snails tells me.
“Plus you almost got yourself killed,” finishes Twilight.
“Alright, I get it. Jeez,” I tell them, “It was either that or risk losing the briefcase and that would have jeopardized the whole thing. The Lupinrangers arriving didn't help matters at all. Hell, we had no idea they were gonna show up.”
“To be fair, we had no idea either. But the mission remained the same. Fortunately our agents will make a full recovery. Their injuries aren't serious. But now that we know the Lupinrangers have gotten their hands on new armaments, we must double our efforts,” says Chief.
“Does it double with VILE?” Twilight asks.
“Yes Twilight. We must double our efforts especially against VILE. Even as we speak, they are seeking out the Lupin Collection as a means to mobilize their forces. We must beat them to it if we are to have any chance of fighting back. Until then, remain alert. You are dismissed,” Chief tells us.
As we gear up to leave the briefing room, Chief has one more thing to say, “Snails can you remain here for a minute or so?”
“Huh? What for?” He asks, as he watches the others leave.
With the door shut behind him, Snails stares the Chief down. A lot of emotions are flowing through his mind, wondering what was going to happen. Chief lets out a sigh before getting the chance to speak.
“Snails, I am a little disappointed over your recent behavior,” Chief tells him, “I can understand your duty as a Power Ranger and as an ACME operative. Not to mention that yes, the Lupinrangers do take priority when it comes to their capture. However I didn't give you the order.”
“Even so, they are just as much of a threat to ACME as VILE,” He explains, “After all, Enigma is with them making this a top-level priority.”
“It's only a top-level priority when I say it is, not when you do. You are letting that victory you had get to your head,” follows Chief, “Stuff like that is something I don't tolerate within ACME. Made no better how you decide to lash out toward your teammates.”
Snails doesn't say a word as she continues, “Roy believed that you would have what it takes to lead this team of Rangers. Don't get me wrong. You have the potential. The problem being your emotions.”
“So are you saying that I am like a yinzer or something because that's what Roy always calls me when I screw up or something. Yoy!” He says, going a little into the Yinzer side of things.
“Just proves my point,” Chief replies, “Regardless, I can't let your emotions complicate things.”
“What do you have in mind Chief?” Snails suggests.
“Use this opportunity to unwind. You don't have to entirely be focused on your mission to capture the Lupinrangers. There's more to life than just your job. Like your friends having found occupations to keep themselves busy. You should do the same,” She answers.
Snails thinks about it for a few seconds but like her suggestion earlier, Chief tells him, “You don't have to give me a reason right away. Take some time. Use that time to think and hopefully you'll be able to find something productive to accomplish.”
“I understand. I will do that,” He tells her.
“Very good. You are dismissed. Just keep yourself in check for next time,” Chief replies. Snails walks out of the briefing room while Chief simply looks on with a curious yet stern expression.
As he walks out, Snails notices the rest of us waiting for him. I mean, come on. It's not like we were going to leave him behind right? Yeah. Figures.
“You guys were waiting for me?” He asks us.
“Well duh? Come on. Let's at least celebrate since we got the job done today,” Sunset replies.
“Yeah, thanks to me,” I tell him. Next thing I knew, I end up getting a punch to the stomach. Thankfully it's not serious.
Snails comes in and says, “Be thankful I'm restraining myself. If I wasn't, you'd be on the floor right now.”
I reply, “Whatever you say yinzer.”
Guess my actions got the better of me as I end up feeling another punch to the stomach. This time, it was hard as hell and I end up on the floor. I can be such an idiot at times you know.
“You never change man,” He tells me, “Come on. Let's go.”
The others went off. I quickly catch up but it seems that I should know better than to not be a complete dunce. Sure we did get our hands on the Trigger Machines but having to deal with VILE and the Lupinrangers is enough to get us on edge. Fortunately we can be able to get some R&R. I worry more for Snails since he's more on edge than the others. Hopefully he'll find something to do just like the others. Besides, our time here on this world has only begun. In fact, it's actually getting interesting.
To be continued...
Next time on Equestria Girls: Lupinranger vs. Patranger! Carmen and her Lupinranger team head for Ecuador in search of some rare artifacts. But things get crazy when VILE unleashes a new plan up their sleeves and a new Gangler to boot. Their clash soon gets the Patrangers' attention and it becomes a three-way fight for the artifacts. Can the Rangers be able to get them out of VILE's hands or will VILE use them for some nefarious purpose? Find out on the next episode, Auction Under Attack; A New Threat Arises.
Two teams, two objectives! Which side will you choose?