Earth Song: Chapter Eight
Earth Song
Chapter Eight: The Way You Move
Note: I do not own Power Rangers Jungle Fury or Ninja Storm, nor do I make money from writing this. I’m just amusing myself.
Crossover: Ninja Storm/Jungle Fury
Timeline: About 5 months after “The Final Fury”
Genre: Drama/Angst
Summary: The song has begun, summoning the Children of Earth to react. Heroes will rise from unexpected lines. A Ninja Storm/Jungle Fury Crossover.
Waking up hasn’t seemed this hard since the first day of training at the Wind Ninja Academy. Last night was exhausting in the most pleasant way but I should be used to it, being a dancer. It’s also hard to get up because Sirena is crammed in next to me, in Lily’s small bed in RJ’s loft and she has me in a death grip. The boys are all over the floor, literally. Dustin, Shane, Hunter, Casey and Jarrod are all over the floor. Camille and Tori have shared the futon near the entrance to the loft.
The sudden scent of fresh pizza sauce fills the air and I think I just heard one of the boys moan. Probably Dustin given his food lust, and I see Lily creep past the boys and head downstairs, dressed in her obnoxiously loud uniform. She waves her fingers at me and heads down as I try to break Sirena’s death grip. Finally able to get out of her grip I step perfectly around each person, trying to remember how the group got to be so big.
The music rips through the club, the lights were flashing and the noise was intense on my ears. They haven’t been so sensitive before. I spot Camille, Jarrod and Casey in a large booth that’s apparently reserved for us. I hadn’t known they were coming out but it wasn’t a problem, it was great just to see familiar faces. Tori split from the group to embrace another familiar face, Dinah, her lieutenant. The brunette happily accepts her embrace and they go towards the bar to talk. Lily grabs my hand and we hit the floor, RJ and Sirena join us while the others head for the table. The brilliantly pink haired DJ whoops loudly and begins to mix.
The hours blur, my body is sore from the hours of dancing. Our group is dominating the floor with the exception of Jarrod, who is quietly back at the booth, watching. Dustin leaves the floor and plops into the other side and then Sirena joins them and one by one everyone is back at the booth but Lily and I. I’m having too much fun to stop. The music is still mixing though the DJ is no where near her booth, she is on the floor dancing and her hands are glittering pink. I must be seeing things because it seems like magic, but I’m probably hallucinating or something.
“Come on! I think the Crew has had enough!” Lily pretty much shouts in my ear, she takes me by the hand and we join our table.
“Ready?” Hunter asks, we nod.
“Awesome! Anyone want Pizza?” RJ asked, and all eyes went to him, “I see I’ve said the magic word! Off to Jungle Karma!” he announces and off we went, the last thing I remember doing was putting down my third slice of pizza and finding the nearest bed…
Walking down the stairs I see RJ and Lily already in the midst of prepping for their day. Sauce was simmering on the stove; cheeses were stacked, waiting to be shredded. They moved so elegantly around the kitchen and each other it was like watching a dance. I hear steps behind me and I look up to see Camille, she plops down beside me and grumbles a good morning. I wish her one back and then become immediately disgusted as all of a sudden her tongue is making its way to the coffee machine.
"Gross, do you have to do that around me?" I ask, she just smiles as she brings herself a cup of hot coffee.
"Camille, don't do that again. I've warned you next time its mine." RJ says but there's no venom in his voice, he seems more amused than anything.
He is a strange man but yet again I'm the one in Ninja training, sitting next to a woman who was thousands of years old and had a chameleon tongue.
I hear rustling upstairs and Dustin comes down next. He smiles at me and sits behind me, placing his legs on either side of me. He mouths 'hi' and yawns, and I smile back at him. As I turn back around he places his arms on my shoulders and rests his cheek on the top of my head. I'm glad I'm not claustrophobic, since I'm literally surrounded by him. It feels nice, a little too warm since the kitchen is heating up. I've never been close with a guy before, dancing is one thing but when they use you as a pillow especially wrapped themselves around you, it feels intimate.
Camille watched him for a moment and then mouths 'he's sleeping,' then before I can stop her, her tongue whips out and smacks him in the cheek. Then her eyes grow wide as he seizes her tongue, then his eyes snap open and he looks at what he's holding and let’s go.
"Ew! Oh my God! Dude! Your tongue is not natural." she just blinks as him as her tongue snaps back into her mouth. She makes a disgusted face then takes a sip of her coffee.
"You're a special one aren't you?" she remarks, shaking her head. "Haven't you pieced together that we Pai Zhua are gifted because of our spirits?" his face lights up as it dawns on him.
"All of you are like that?" she nods, inhaling her coffee to get the taste of his skin from her mouth.
"It varies. Lily has speed and agility, RJ can actual turn into a wolf-"
"Half. Not total. If that happens I would cease be here." RJ says, "My senses are enhanced as well, especially my hearing and sense of smell."
"What are your Dad?" I asked curiously. Due to his love of the sea, I didn't get to know him as well as I did Master Swoop.
"Hmm well as he's aged his dependency on the sea has grown. He's an excellent swimmer and can hold his breath and dive as deeply as he needs to." He says thoughtfully.
"And I obviously have been gifted with echolocation, amongst other things." Master Swoop says as he appears in the doorway on the kitchen.
"Good morning Master Swoop," RJ and I say in unison. He smiles lightly.
"Good morning Gabriella, RJ," then his smile stays as he turns to Lily. "Good morning Lily, I see RJ has finally taken you as his mate. You do realize we will need to gather those of the pack soon," Lily blushes as red as the tomatoes she's making into sauce. "Before you all get perverted thoughts in your minds, I can tell through sight. You may not realize it yet, Lily but you're carrying yourself as an Alpha female."
"We can't gather the pack, we're not all here. Dom and Fran are still out of the country. And...Theo..."
"As much as it pains you, Theo will not return for some time. When those who wander return they can be added to the pack then. You still have Master Finn and I, Casey, Jarrod, Camille and Flit.”
"What about you Gabs?" Dustin asks, I shake my head.
"I'm not pack material. No spirit."
"You can still be included in the pack you just wont be able to sense the others as they sense you. You're still apart of my pack." Lily says with a firm nod of her head, making sure I knew her word was final.
RJ's grinning proudly with a wolfish glint in his eyes. He likes that though Lily has no comprehension, like the rest of us, what being the Alpha female is but she certainly will stand up as one. She and I smile at each other, and I realize this is what it must be like to have not just a devoted Sister but a family. Contention runs through me and I settle back against Dustin who is finally awake. He wraps his arms around my shoulders and I smile. I really like him, why was I denying it? Probably because I wanted so hard to be good, to be better, to fight hard and become something greater. And most of all, he helped me grow. If he had doubts of his teaching abilities I'm proof how good he is.
"Gabby, my dear, would you be interested in making breakfast?" RJ asks, I smile, knowing he wants my cinnamon rolls again.
"Of course, since you kindly housed all of us last night, it’s the least I can do." I tell him and Dustin releases his grip on me and I head back upstairs. Walking into the loft, I find Tori and Jarrod in quiet meditation. They both looked serene and calm; Shane and Sirena were sitting on the futon.
"Whatcha doing Chicka?" Sirena asked her voice thick with sleep.
"Breakfast."
Apparently I said the magic word this time because everyone's eyes swiveled to me. Even Jarrod, who I've been told, could mediate in silence for days without moving a muscle looked over. A small smile appeared on his lips. He studied my face and then answered my question.
"We all know about your baking skills, and hungrily wait to try for ourselves, Gabby."
"Oh! Thank you! Honestly I'm not that good..."
"Honey, saying you're not good is saying that I can’t surf." Tori said smiling. I blush, I can't help it, and I’ve never had so many wonderful people support me in my life.
"Ok, ok you win." and with hungry eyes follow me, I begin to make cinnamon rolls.
---ES---
As Gabby dishes out cinnamon rolls for each of us, I can’t help but just feel so content around her. Despite being my student, I realize if I hadn't met her, I'd miss this feeling. She smiles kindly to everyone, there is never and air of hatred or even a vibe of ill will. It’s what I like about her, because I'm the same way, why spend time focusing on anger and being mad when you can just lead a good life. Even Marah truly doesn't bother me. I want; I need someone in my life. Shane has Sirena; Tori had Blake until he decided to be a D-Bag. Now she may have Cam, she really hasn't made up her mind, and even Hunter has Kelly. And I realize how alone I am, but when I'm around Gabby I feel like it's the most natural thing in the world.
As Gabby turns to the sink to wash up, I stand beside her and began to help. It’s probably the only time I can catch her before she gets whisked off by someone.
"Gabby, what are your plans for the day?" she smiles as she looks as the dishes.
"Nothing so far," she replies and hands me a bowl which I dry.
"Wanna hang out today? Just you and me?" I think I see her blush and I can help but smile.
"Sure, I’d like that," she says and I accept another dish.
"Cool.”
After the dishes are done, I say goodbye to the others and take Gabby by the hand and we head out into the town.
“So, what are we going to do today?” she asks, beaming up at me.
“Well, since I’ve seen your hobby, I’m hoping you’d like to see mine. Have you heard of FMX?”
“Free style motor cross?” she answered immediately, well colored me surprise.
“Yeah, how’d you know?” I can’t help myself, I really want to know.
“One of the guys that tried to date me in high school was obsessed. He took me to rally or whatever it was and I told him I hated it. Really I just hated him so lying seemed the best bet since I’m extremely sincere.” She says with a smirk. “But I did like it. It was thrilling, dangerous, but thrilling.”
“Well good, prepared to be thrilled. Afterwards, heading back and changing then going out to dinner? How’s that sound Bambi?” she smiles.
“Sounds good Sunny,” I like it when she calls me that, though I’ll deny it when anyone calls me that. I wrap my arm around her waist and I cannot wait for our day to begin.
Once I’m on my bike, the sun is shining and I feel Gabby watching I feel like I’m home. I’ve missed this. Being so busy with everything that’s going down right now, this will help calm my nerves. I start off with some of the simple tricks, the cliff hanger, lazy boy, rock solid and heel clicker. As I advance into the more complicated and albeit dangerous tricks including landings like side saddle lander, I start to feel strange. Then it hits me, I feel the Earth, this is the second time this has happened and I blackout for a minute with Gabby’s screams echoing in my ear.
When I snap to a second later, I’m still in midair and my bike is flying towards a small crowd that had gathered. I watch as Gabby slams her toe into the ground and raises her arm and I’ll be damned but the ground actually moved! Curved like a mitt to catch it, and after that her mouth drops open and hangs there. Then I realize I’m still midair but strong arms have me. Looking up, it’s Master Swoop and he’s calmly hanging in midair like he’s on wires. He descends to the Earth quickly, like we were never there. The first thing I do as I gain footing is race to Gabby who is still standing there clearly stunned.
“Gabby! What did you do? That was awesome!” I tell her, she closes her mouth and looks at me with her eyes as wide as they can go.
“I have no frickin’ clue! I just acted! I begged the Earth to bend to my will and she did! She helped me!” she cries in amazement and now the shock has turned to delight. “I did it! I helped save some people!” she says, looking at the shell shocked crowd that is looking at my bike. Then she launches herself at me, “Oh my God are you ok? Here I’m rambling on when you just blacked out midair! Master Swoop, thank you!” She lets me go for a moment and hugs him quickly, then becomes flustered. She bows to him and he looks amused, and then returns to my arms.
“It was the Earth; it’s whenever I’m in midair that I black out. Maybe because it’s more a direct slap to my brain…does that make sense?”
“For you, it does,” Master Swoop says, and I’m debating if that’s an insult or not. “It’s getting stronger. Even I can feel it now. Soon the others will too, those of elements other than Earth and animal spirits alike will hear the cries.” He continues, and then looks to us. “I am aware you had plans for the evening, do not worry about this event, we will begin to discuss with the others soon, once it grows louder. I have a feeling we will have our answer to why she cries soon. It would be wise to keep your feet on the ground from now on, enjoy your dinner.” With that he vanishes as quickly as he arrives.
“I think it would be good if we got out of here,” she says and I can honestly say she took the words from out of my mouth.
“Let me get my bike…” then I spot Hunter and Kelly, I motion for them to grab my bike and I’ll tell them later, amazingly they got it. Thank God they know me well enough as Gabby and I make a hasty exit and ninja streak back to the school.
Its quiet, given it’s the weekend and no one is really around. Gabby heads to her room to change and I mosey around, it won’t take me as long to get ready so I take the time to see who’s around. Dinah is in one of our practice rooms, sparing with Kapri. They are not fighting as clean as they should as Dinah belts Kapri in the face, and to my surprise Kapri just smiles and strikes back just as hard. From the looks on their face, it seems like a weird form of foreplay. On that note, I make sure to put as much distance between myself and them. Some things I’d rather not know.
Next I run into Bob…Frank…no Jake. My second in command. He is walking out of the library with a book, a few of our better students around him. Good to see them studying on a day off. It’s why they are some of my advanced students. Makes me proud to teach them. The Cam comes from a room and glares at me. That’s not unusual, it’s the typical norm.
“What?” I ask, shooting him a look of innocence, since as far as I know I haven’t done anything.
“Have you seen Tori?”
“Yup! She’s off at Jungle Karma Pizza last time I knew. I didn’t ask her plans for the day but last time I saw her she was hanging around Jarrod,” Cam darkens at that, I don’t know if it’s because it’s another guy around Tori or because its Jarrod. There’s something about him that I don’t know…it feels off. He’s good I can sense that but he seems…more fragile about it. Gabby did assure me last night he is a good guy and even danced with him. Since I have no competition given he’s got a girl...mutant girl, whatever, it doesn’t bother me.
“Thanks,” he snaps and stalks off. Finally I come across the man I truly wanted to see.
Sensei is mediating in his office and as I quietly walk in, I drop to the space beside him and draw my legs in to mediate beside him. Taking a breath, I close my eyes and inhale and as I exhale I begin to come to peace and relaxation.
“What do you want to ask, Dustin?” he asks, I know he has not moved therefore I will not move or open my eyes.
“The Earth, her cries are becoming so strong. Has this happened before?”
“Not in thousands of years. There are records of this happening around the time of the Pai Zhua Beast Wars and the Mystic War that took place in the Mystical Realm, since it almost bled into the mortal dimension. But nothing as strong or seemingly isolated as this. I have noticed that Cam has begun to pick up on it and track it, and some of the more sensitive students that are not of Earth have noticed as well.”
“Mystical Realm?”
“We’re tied to it as is Pai Zhau. The land we have here is only a small portion of the Realm. We are on the outskirts, the Mystic Realm is more in the middle, and it’s a vast magical place. We have been at peace with the land and people since the creation of the Academies. After all, we have all produced Rangers. We were the first in recent times, 4 years later the Mystics followed and now the Pai Zhua Rangers have ended their time.”
“Thank you, Sensei,” I tell him and I bow to him, thankful for the knowledge I now possess. Now its time to get ready for my date.
---Earth Song---
Dustin and I arrive to a very nice looking Italian place, and we’re seated at a candle lit table. It’s all very romantic. Through the appetizer and first course I learn more about him and I’m extremely surprised.
His Father was the reason why he got into FMX; he was a business man with a wild streak. His Mother had been a teacher before her passing from losing her battle with cancer. He was an only child who sought a family in his friends since his father was away so often on business. He had known Tori for most of his life and was pretty much her brother in the eyes of her family. They had met Shane a year later and Kelly the next. He had helped Kelly create Storm Charges while she was going to college and was the first person hired due to his help.
He had gotten a scroll one day asking him to join the Academy which he immediately accepted. He believed in Power Rangers when they were just mythos, something from a comic book. He always believed the world needed heroes and people for children to look up to. He thought he’d go professionally into FMX until he had been asked to become a Sensei. He knew he wasn’t the best at FMX but he was in the top two and that was fine with him, he was more in it for the excitement. Much like me, I didn’t have to be the very best at dance, second place was perfect. He likes old martial arts movies and Bruce Lee, but he also enjoyed Superhero movies and occasionally an Audrey Hepburn movie in honor of his Mother. And apparently he told no one this but when he hears “Moon River” he tears up because his Mom would sing that to him as he went to sleep.
He took my hand as I told him that the only person in my life I ever had was my Uncle. My family prided themselves in my talent, not in me. They were harsh and critical and because I loved my Uncle, I was treated as an outcast. I was happy being a dancer and honed my baking skills from a young age. I admit I do miss my family but with the people I have with me now, The Pack and the Ninjas, I’m complete. Much like him I like Bruce Lee and favor his son Brandon. “The Crow” will always be one of my favorite movies. It’s a tale of love transcending death, about revenge and redemption. I also like Audrey Hepburn but I also like chick-flicks like any typical girl. But I also loved movies that mess with your mind and make you think. I tell him second place is a good place to be in my craft and he smiles brightly, and says he knows exactly how that is.
As they clear away the first course and tell us that the second will be coming shortly, I excuse myself to the bathroom. If I believed in Mates like the Pai Zhua, I would say I found mine. Its just so natural to be with him, I’ve never felt this way before. I hardly recognize the woman staring back at me. She seems so confident and happy, something I haven’t been in all my life. Now I know I made the right choice, to believe in my Uncle and his faith in me. And to be this close to a guy who likes me for who I am, not because of how I look as it had been in the past. Being with him feels right, being at the Academy feels right, I feel…content.
-
--Earth Song---
Dustin and I walk hand in hand through the grounds. My heels are off and dangling from my fingers. It feels good to be close to him, it feels right. We head to the gazebo for lack of better terms, Dustin said Sensei usually resided out here in day time but he liked to come out at night and look at the stars. It made him feel like a kid again…not that he doesn’t act like a big one already. We hear someone jogging towards us, feeling the vibration under our feet and look over. Sirena is heading out way, her hair I down and she’s in casual wear and bare footed like we are.
“Bambi, there’s some little guy in blue here. He’s claiming to be a friend of yours.” She says, looking winded, making me wonder how long she’s been looking for us.
“Where is he?” I ask, standing.
“Conference room with Sensei and Cam.”
“Thank you!” I tell her and promise to be right back. I jog with her towards the Academy as Dustin turns his eyes towards the sky, watching the stars.
As Sirena stops at the door, I pause to compose myself and walk in. To my surprise, Theo Martin is waiting for me. Standing in a corner, a woman watches in silence. She’s tall, willowy, blonde hair; she has a distinguished air about her and seems to be older than us. Theo turns his head towards me and I bow to the Master. I know it’s been less than a year but he seems so different. This Theo was even more focused than before. He did seem apprehensive having his companion here but I will not judge her. I don’t know her, that is not who I am. I wouldn’t want anyone doing that to me, so I don’t do it in return.
“Gabby, it is good to see you,” he says, his voice is carefully controlled but I hear raw nerves in his voice. I carefully kneel on the ground beside him as he sits, given the confines of my skirt.
“I must say it’s a surprise to see you Theo,” and it honestly is. No one knew where he was, they assumed he was in Europe given his note but he seemed to be still in the States. Given how close I am to Lily, I’m certainly surprised he’d see me. We hadn’t gotten to bond like the others either.
“Yes. I assume you know why I left and where I have been?” he asks, his eyes flit to his companion again, I nod.
“Are you back?” He shakes his head, the blonde watches us carefully now.
“I will not be for some time. I have come to speak to you about pressing matters. First, this is Doctor Silvia Jennings, Silvia, this is Gabby Phant. She’s Master Phant’s Niece.”
“Was. He’s dead now, you missed his funeral,” I tell him, I can’t help but let bitterness seep out. Theo’s brows arch at me and seems surprised. After all, I was a wilted flower when we met. I’ve grown now, I’ve changed as much as he has.
“I am sorry about your loss, Gabby. But I was not as close to your Uncle as the others were,” Theo said, there is mild surprise in his voice, “I do feel grief but other things have arisen. I’m sure by now you’ve been experiencing what we have called the Earth Song,”
“Yes…how did you know?” As far as I knew, it was Earth bound people feeling it. The air and water students have not felt or heard anything. From what I understand, Theo was more of an air student since he studied under Master Swoop as is RJ. Lily was Earth, like me and hasn’t heard anything. And lastly Casey, under Master Finn which is obviously water, has not either.
“I’ve heard it. So has Silvia. Everything is screaming for us, for help,” He warns, I look to Silvia and she has that haunted look in her eyes that those of us who have heard the song.
“What can we do?” I ask, I’ve been at a loss since this has begun. I look to him and her as she looms behind him. They seem grim, sad, tired yet determined.
“Gather people. Gather supplies. Tell them what you know. We have to have our defenses ready,” I study him intently. He was quiet before, intense and quiet but now he seemed troubled. Silvia seems to be easing him with her presence but though he has changed, something seems off. And it’s not his outfit. It was still blue but its something more Oriental. Suddenly he seems a bit unnerved and stands. “I have to go, just remember what I said. Tell the others. Soon they will hear it too. It will be easier to sway them then,” Something is wrong here. I don’t know what but he’s dealing with something big.
“Alright, thank you for telling me this. I finally feel like I’m not crazy. I’m not alone, Dustin and I aren’t the only ones,” he smiles sadly.
“No, you’re not. These will be some difficult times ahead. All I can do is offer the advice I could. Please, take care, Gabby. The world as we know it, will soon change,” he says, I bow to him and he bows to me as does Silvia.
“Take care Theo, Silvia, it was good to see you.” I tell him and it is, I can hopefully ease Lily and RJ by letting them know he’s alright…well…he’s alive and physically healthy.
I watch him go and wish I could say something else to comfort him. As I walk into the hall, I feel arms around my waist and immediately know that it’s Dustin. I sigh and he kisses the top of my head. I just wish I knew what this all meant…
---
To Be Continued
Chapter Eight: The Way You Move
Note: I do not own Power Rangers Jungle Fury or Ninja Storm, nor do I make money from writing this. I’m just amusing myself.
Crossover: Ninja Storm/Jungle Fury
Timeline: About 5 months after “The Final Fury”
Genre: Drama/Angst
Summary: The song has begun, summoning the Children of Earth to react. Heroes will rise from unexpected lines. A Ninja Storm/Jungle Fury Crossover.
Waking up hasn’t seemed this hard since the first day of training at the Wind Ninja Academy. Last night was exhausting in the most pleasant way but I should be used to it, being a dancer. It’s also hard to get up because Sirena is crammed in next to me, in Lily’s small bed in RJ’s loft and she has me in a death grip. The boys are all over the floor, literally. Dustin, Shane, Hunter, Casey and Jarrod are all over the floor. Camille and Tori have shared the futon near the entrance to the loft.
The sudden scent of fresh pizza sauce fills the air and I think I just heard one of the boys moan. Probably Dustin given his food lust, and I see Lily creep past the boys and head downstairs, dressed in her obnoxiously loud uniform. She waves her fingers at me and heads down as I try to break Sirena’s death grip. Finally able to get out of her grip I step perfectly around each person, trying to remember how the group got to be so big.
The music rips through the club, the lights were flashing and the noise was intense on my ears. They haven’t been so sensitive before. I spot Camille, Jarrod and Casey in a large booth that’s apparently reserved for us. I hadn’t known they were coming out but it wasn’t a problem, it was great just to see familiar faces. Tori split from the group to embrace another familiar face, Dinah, her lieutenant. The brunette happily accepts her embrace and they go towards the bar to talk. Lily grabs my hand and we hit the floor, RJ and Sirena join us while the others head for the table. The brilliantly pink haired DJ whoops loudly and begins to mix.
The hours blur, my body is sore from the hours of dancing. Our group is dominating the floor with the exception of Jarrod, who is quietly back at the booth, watching. Dustin leaves the floor and plops into the other side and then Sirena joins them and one by one everyone is back at the booth but Lily and I. I’m having too much fun to stop. The music is still mixing though the DJ is no where near her booth, she is on the floor dancing and her hands are glittering pink. I must be seeing things because it seems like magic, but I’m probably hallucinating or something.
“Come on! I think the Crew has had enough!” Lily pretty much shouts in my ear, she takes me by the hand and we join our table.
“Ready?” Hunter asks, we nod.
“Awesome! Anyone want Pizza?” RJ asked, and all eyes went to him, “I see I’ve said the magic word! Off to Jungle Karma!” he announces and off we went, the last thing I remember doing was putting down my third slice of pizza and finding the nearest bed…
Walking down the stairs I see RJ and Lily already in the midst of prepping for their day. Sauce was simmering on the stove; cheeses were stacked, waiting to be shredded. They moved so elegantly around the kitchen and each other it was like watching a dance. I hear steps behind me and I look up to see Camille, she plops down beside me and grumbles a good morning. I wish her one back and then become immediately disgusted as all of a sudden her tongue is making its way to the coffee machine.
"Gross, do you have to do that around me?" I ask, she just smiles as she brings herself a cup of hot coffee.
"Camille, don't do that again. I've warned you next time its mine." RJ says but there's no venom in his voice, he seems more amused than anything.
He is a strange man but yet again I'm the one in Ninja training, sitting next to a woman who was thousands of years old and had a chameleon tongue.
I hear rustling upstairs and Dustin comes down next. He smiles at me and sits behind me, placing his legs on either side of me. He mouths 'hi' and yawns, and I smile back at him. As I turn back around he places his arms on my shoulders and rests his cheek on the top of my head. I'm glad I'm not claustrophobic, since I'm literally surrounded by him. It feels nice, a little too warm since the kitchen is heating up. I've never been close with a guy before, dancing is one thing but when they use you as a pillow especially wrapped themselves around you, it feels intimate.
Camille watched him for a moment and then mouths 'he's sleeping,' then before I can stop her, her tongue whips out and smacks him in the cheek. Then her eyes grow wide as he seizes her tongue, then his eyes snap open and he looks at what he's holding and let’s go.
"Ew! Oh my God! Dude! Your tongue is not natural." she just blinks as him as her tongue snaps back into her mouth. She makes a disgusted face then takes a sip of her coffee.
"You're a special one aren't you?" she remarks, shaking her head. "Haven't you pieced together that we Pai Zhua are gifted because of our spirits?" his face lights up as it dawns on him.
"All of you are like that?" she nods, inhaling her coffee to get the taste of his skin from her mouth.
"It varies. Lily has speed and agility, RJ can actual turn into a wolf-"
"Half. Not total. If that happens I would cease be here." RJ says, "My senses are enhanced as well, especially my hearing and sense of smell."
"What are your Dad?" I asked curiously. Due to his love of the sea, I didn't get to know him as well as I did Master Swoop.
"Hmm well as he's aged his dependency on the sea has grown. He's an excellent swimmer and can hold his breath and dive as deeply as he needs to." He says thoughtfully.
"And I obviously have been gifted with echolocation, amongst other things." Master Swoop says as he appears in the doorway on the kitchen.
"Good morning Master Swoop," RJ and I say in unison. He smiles lightly.
"Good morning Gabriella, RJ," then his smile stays as he turns to Lily. "Good morning Lily, I see RJ has finally taken you as his mate. You do realize we will need to gather those of the pack soon," Lily blushes as red as the tomatoes she's making into sauce. "Before you all get perverted thoughts in your minds, I can tell through sight. You may not realize it yet, Lily but you're carrying yourself as an Alpha female."
"We can't gather the pack, we're not all here. Dom and Fran are still out of the country. And...Theo..."
"As much as it pains you, Theo will not return for some time. When those who wander return they can be added to the pack then. You still have Master Finn and I, Casey, Jarrod, Camille and Flit.”
"What about you Gabs?" Dustin asks, I shake my head.
"I'm not pack material. No spirit."
"You can still be included in the pack you just wont be able to sense the others as they sense you. You're still apart of my pack." Lily says with a firm nod of her head, making sure I knew her word was final.
RJ's grinning proudly with a wolfish glint in his eyes. He likes that though Lily has no comprehension, like the rest of us, what being the Alpha female is but she certainly will stand up as one. She and I smile at each other, and I realize this is what it must be like to have not just a devoted Sister but a family. Contention runs through me and I settle back against Dustin who is finally awake. He wraps his arms around my shoulders and I smile. I really like him, why was I denying it? Probably because I wanted so hard to be good, to be better, to fight hard and become something greater. And most of all, he helped me grow. If he had doubts of his teaching abilities I'm proof how good he is.
"Gabby, my dear, would you be interested in making breakfast?" RJ asks, I smile, knowing he wants my cinnamon rolls again.
"Of course, since you kindly housed all of us last night, it’s the least I can do." I tell him and Dustin releases his grip on me and I head back upstairs. Walking into the loft, I find Tori and Jarrod in quiet meditation. They both looked serene and calm; Shane and Sirena were sitting on the futon.
"Whatcha doing Chicka?" Sirena asked her voice thick with sleep.
"Breakfast."
Apparently I said the magic word this time because everyone's eyes swiveled to me. Even Jarrod, who I've been told, could mediate in silence for days without moving a muscle looked over. A small smile appeared on his lips. He studied my face and then answered my question.
"We all know about your baking skills, and hungrily wait to try for ourselves, Gabby."
"Oh! Thank you! Honestly I'm not that good..."
"Honey, saying you're not good is saying that I can’t surf." Tori said smiling. I blush, I can't help it, and I’ve never had so many wonderful people support me in my life.
"Ok, ok you win." and with hungry eyes follow me, I begin to make cinnamon rolls.
---ES---
As Gabby dishes out cinnamon rolls for each of us, I can’t help but just feel so content around her. Despite being my student, I realize if I hadn't met her, I'd miss this feeling. She smiles kindly to everyone, there is never and air of hatred or even a vibe of ill will. It’s what I like about her, because I'm the same way, why spend time focusing on anger and being mad when you can just lead a good life. Even Marah truly doesn't bother me. I want; I need someone in my life. Shane has Sirena; Tori had Blake until he decided to be a D-Bag. Now she may have Cam, she really hasn't made up her mind, and even Hunter has Kelly. And I realize how alone I am, but when I'm around Gabby I feel like it's the most natural thing in the world.
As Gabby turns to the sink to wash up, I stand beside her and began to help. It’s probably the only time I can catch her before she gets whisked off by someone.
"Gabby, what are your plans for the day?" she smiles as she looks as the dishes.
"Nothing so far," she replies and hands me a bowl which I dry.
"Wanna hang out today? Just you and me?" I think I see her blush and I can help but smile.
"Sure, I’d like that," she says and I accept another dish.
"Cool.”
After the dishes are done, I say goodbye to the others and take Gabby by the hand and we head out into the town.
“So, what are we going to do today?” she asks, beaming up at me.
“Well, since I’ve seen your hobby, I’m hoping you’d like to see mine. Have you heard of FMX?”
“Free style motor cross?” she answered immediately, well colored me surprise.
“Yeah, how’d you know?” I can’t help myself, I really want to know.
“One of the guys that tried to date me in high school was obsessed. He took me to rally or whatever it was and I told him I hated it. Really I just hated him so lying seemed the best bet since I’m extremely sincere.” She says with a smirk. “But I did like it. It was thrilling, dangerous, but thrilling.”
“Well good, prepared to be thrilled. Afterwards, heading back and changing then going out to dinner? How’s that sound Bambi?” she smiles.
“Sounds good Sunny,” I like it when she calls me that, though I’ll deny it when anyone calls me that. I wrap my arm around her waist and I cannot wait for our day to begin.
Once I’m on my bike, the sun is shining and I feel Gabby watching I feel like I’m home. I’ve missed this. Being so busy with everything that’s going down right now, this will help calm my nerves. I start off with some of the simple tricks, the cliff hanger, lazy boy, rock solid and heel clicker. As I advance into the more complicated and albeit dangerous tricks including landings like side saddle lander, I start to feel strange. Then it hits me, I feel the Earth, this is the second time this has happened and I blackout for a minute with Gabby’s screams echoing in my ear.
When I snap to a second later, I’m still in midair and my bike is flying towards a small crowd that had gathered. I watch as Gabby slams her toe into the ground and raises her arm and I’ll be damned but the ground actually moved! Curved like a mitt to catch it, and after that her mouth drops open and hangs there. Then I realize I’m still midair but strong arms have me. Looking up, it’s Master Swoop and he’s calmly hanging in midair like he’s on wires. He descends to the Earth quickly, like we were never there. The first thing I do as I gain footing is race to Gabby who is still standing there clearly stunned.
“Gabby! What did you do? That was awesome!” I tell her, she closes her mouth and looks at me with her eyes as wide as they can go.
“I have no frickin’ clue! I just acted! I begged the Earth to bend to my will and she did! She helped me!” she cries in amazement and now the shock has turned to delight. “I did it! I helped save some people!” she says, looking at the shell shocked crowd that is looking at my bike. Then she launches herself at me, “Oh my God are you ok? Here I’m rambling on when you just blacked out midair! Master Swoop, thank you!” She lets me go for a moment and hugs him quickly, then becomes flustered. She bows to him and he looks amused, and then returns to my arms.
“It was the Earth; it’s whenever I’m in midair that I black out. Maybe because it’s more a direct slap to my brain…does that make sense?”
“For you, it does,” Master Swoop says, and I’m debating if that’s an insult or not. “It’s getting stronger. Even I can feel it now. Soon the others will too, those of elements other than Earth and animal spirits alike will hear the cries.” He continues, and then looks to us. “I am aware you had plans for the evening, do not worry about this event, we will begin to discuss with the others soon, once it grows louder. I have a feeling we will have our answer to why she cries soon. It would be wise to keep your feet on the ground from now on, enjoy your dinner.” With that he vanishes as quickly as he arrives.
“I think it would be good if we got out of here,” she says and I can honestly say she took the words from out of my mouth.
“Let me get my bike…” then I spot Hunter and Kelly, I motion for them to grab my bike and I’ll tell them later, amazingly they got it. Thank God they know me well enough as Gabby and I make a hasty exit and ninja streak back to the school.
Its quiet, given it’s the weekend and no one is really around. Gabby heads to her room to change and I mosey around, it won’t take me as long to get ready so I take the time to see who’s around. Dinah is in one of our practice rooms, sparing with Kapri. They are not fighting as clean as they should as Dinah belts Kapri in the face, and to my surprise Kapri just smiles and strikes back just as hard. From the looks on their face, it seems like a weird form of foreplay. On that note, I make sure to put as much distance between myself and them. Some things I’d rather not know.
Next I run into Bob…Frank…no Jake. My second in command. He is walking out of the library with a book, a few of our better students around him. Good to see them studying on a day off. It’s why they are some of my advanced students. Makes me proud to teach them. The Cam comes from a room and glares at me. That’s not unusual, it’s the typical norm.
“What?” I ask, shooting him a look of innocence, since as far as I know I haven’t done anything.
“Have you seen Tori?”
“Yup! She’s off at Jungle Karma Pizza last time I knew. I didn’t ask her plans for the day but last time I saw her she was hanging around Jarrod,” Cam darkens at that, I don’t know if it’s because it’s another guy around Tori or because its Jarrod. There’s something about him that I don’t know…it feels off. He’s good I can sense that but he seems…more fragile about it. Gabby did assure me last night he is a good guy and even danced with him. Since I have no competition given he’s got a girl...mutant girl, whatever, it doesn’t bother me.
“Thanks,” he snaps and stalks off. Finally I come across the man I truly wanted to see.
Sensei is mediating in his office and as I quietly walk in, I drop to the space beside him and draw my legs in to mediate beside him. Taking a breath, I close my eyes and inhale and as I exhale I begin to come to peace and relaxation.
“What do you want to ask, Dustin?” he asks, I know he has not moved therefore I will not move or open my eyes.
“The Earth, her cries are becoming so strong. Has this happened before?”
“Not in thousands of years. There are records of this happening around the time of the Pai Zhua Beast Wars and the Mystic War that took place in the Mystical Realm, since it almost bled into the mortal dimension. But nothing as strong or seemingly isolated as this. I have noticed that Cam has begun to pick up on it and track it, and some of the more sensitive students that are not of Earth have noticed as well.”
“Mystical Realm?”
“We’re tied to it as is Pai Zhau. The land we have here is only a small portion of the Realm. We are on the outskirts, the Mystic Realm is more in the middle, and it’s a vast magical place. We have been at peace with the land and people since the creation of the Academies. After all, we have all produced Rangers. We were the first in recent times, 4 years later the Mystics followed and now the Pai Zhua Rangers have ended their time.”
“Thank you, Sensei,” I tell him and I bow to him, thankful for the knowledge I now possess. Now its time to get ready for my date.
---Earth Song---
Dustin and I arrive to a very nice looking Italian place, and we’re seated at a candle lit table. It’s all very romantic. Through the appetizer and first course I learn more about him and I’m extremely surprised.
His Father was the reason why he got into FMX; he was a business man with a wild streak. His Mother had been a teacher before her passing from losing her battle with cancer. He was an only child who sought a family in his friends since his father was away so often on business. He had known Tori for most of his life and was pretty much her brother in the eyes of her family. They had met Shane a year later and Kelly the next. He had helped Kelly create Storm Charges while she was going to college and was the first person hired due to his help.
He had gotten a scroll one day asking him to join the Academy which he immediately accepted. He believed in Power Rangers when they were just mythos, something from a comic book. He always believed the world needed heroes and people for children to look up to. He thought he’d go professionally into FMX until he had been asked to become a Sensei. He knew he wasn’t the best at FMX but he was in the top two and that was fine with him, he was more in it for the excitement. Much like me, I didn’t have to be the very best at dance, second place was perfect. He likes old martial arts movies and Bruce Lee, but he also enjoyed Superhero movies and occasionally an Audrey Hepburn movie in honor of his Mother. And apparently he told no one this but when he hears “Moon River” he tears up because his Mom would sing that to him as he went to sleep.
He took my hand as I told him that the only person in my life I ever had was my Uncle. My family prided themselves in my talent, not in me. They were harsh and critical and because I loved my Uncle, I was treated as an outcast. I was happy being a dancer and honed my baking skills from a young age. I admit I do miss my family but with the people I have with me now, The Pack and the Ninjas, I’m complete. Much like him I like Bruce Lee and favor his son Brandon. “The Crow” will always be one of my favorite movies. It’s a tale of love transcending death, about revenge and redemption. I also like Audrey Hepburn but I also like chick-flicks like any typical girl. But I also loved movies that mess with your mind and make you think. I tell him second place is a good place to be in my craft and he smiles brightly, and says he knows exactly how that is.
As they clear away the first course and tell us that the second will be coming shortly, I excuse myself to the bathroom. If I believed in Mates like the Pai Zhua, I would say I found mine. Its just so natural to be with him, I’ve never felt this way before. I hardly recognize the woman staring back at me. She seems so confident and happy, something I haven’t been in all my life. Now I know I made the right choice, to believe in my Uncle and his faith in me. And to be this close to a guy who likes me for who I am, not because of how I look as it had been in the past. Being with him feels right, being at the Academy feels right, I feel…content.
-
--Earth Song---
Dustin and I walk hand in hand through the grounds. My heels are off and dangling from my fingers. It feels good to be close to him, it feels right. We head to the gazebo for lack of better terms, Dustin said Sensei usually resided out here in day time but he liked to come out at night and look at the stars. It made him feel like a kid again…not that he doesn’t act like a big one already. We hear someone jogging towards us, feeling the vibration under our feet and look over. Sirena is heading out way, her hair I down and she’s in casual wear and bare footed like we are.
“Bambi, there’s some little guy in blue here. He’s claiming to be a friend of yours.” She says, looking winded, making me wonder how long she’s been looking for us.
“Where is he?” I ask, standing.
“Conference room with Sensei and Cam.”
“Thank you!” I tell her and promise to be right back. I jog with her towards the Academy as Dustin turns his eyes towards the sky, watching the stars.
As Sirena stops at the door, I pause to compose myself and walk in. To my surprise, Theo Martin is waiting for me. Standing in a corner, a woman watches in silence. She’s tall, willowy, blonde hair; she has a distinguished air about her and seems to be older than us. Theo turns his head towards me and I bow to the Master. I know it’s been less than a year but he seems so different. This Theo was even more focused than before. He did seem apprehensive having his companion here but I will not judge her. I don’t know her, that is not who I am. I wouldn’t want anyone doing that to me, so I don’t do it in return.
“Gabby, it is good to see you,” he says, his voice is carefully controlled but I hear raw nerves in his voice. I carefully kneel on the ground beside him as he sits, given the confines of my skirt.
“I must say it’s a surprise to see you Theo,” and it honestly is. No one knew where he was, they assumed he was in Europe given his note but he seemed to be still in the States. Given how close I am to Lily, I’m certainly surprised he’d see me. We hadn’t gotten to bond like the others either.
“Yes. I assume you know why I left and where I have been?” he asks, his eyes flit to his companion again, I nod.
“Are you back?” He shakes his head, the blonde watches us carefully now.
“I will not be for some time. I have come to speak to you about pressing matters. First, this is Doctor Silvia Jennings, Silvia, this is Gabby Phant. She’s Master Phant’s Niece.”
“Was. He’s dead now, you missed his funeral,” I tell him, I can’t help but let bitterness seep out. Theo’s brows arch at me and seems surprised. After all, I was a wilted flower when we met. I’ve grown now, I’ve changed as much as he has.
“I am sorry about your loss, Gabby. But I was not as close to your Uncle as the others were,” Theo said, there is mild surprise in his voice, “I do feel grief but other things have arisen. I’m sure by now you’ve been experiencing what we have called the Earth Song,”
“Yes…how did you know?” As far as I knew, it was Earth bound people feeling it. The air and water students have not felt or heard anything. From what I understand, Theo was more of an air student since he studied under Master Swoop as is RJ. Lily was Earth, like me and hasn’t heard anything. And lastly Casey, under Master Finn which is obviously water, has not either.
“I’ve heard it. So has Silvia. Everything is screaming for us, for help,” He warns, I look to Silvia and she has that haunted look in her eyes that those of us who have heard the song.
“What can we do?” I ask, I’ve been at a loss since this has begun. I look to him and her as she looms behind him. They seem grim, sad, tired yet determined.
“Gather people. Gather supplies. Tell them what you know. We have to have our defenses ready,” I study him intently. He was quiet before, intense and quiet but now he seemed troubled. Silvia seems to be easing him with her presence but though he has changed, something seems off. And it’s not his outfit. It was still blue but its something more Oriental. Suddenly he seems a bit unnerved and stands. “I have to go, just remember what I said. Tell the others. Soon they will hear it too. It will be easier to sway them then,” Something is wrong here. I don’t know what but he’s dealing with something big.
“Alright, thank you for telling me this. I finally feel like I’m not crazy. I’m not alone, Dustin and I aren’t the only ones,” he smiles sadly.
“No, you’re not. These will be some difficult times ahead. All I can do is offer the advice I could. Please, take care, Gabby. The world as we know it, will soon change,” he says, I bow to him and he bows to me as does Silvia.
“Take care Theo, Silvia, it was good to see you.” I tell him and it is, I can hopefully ease Lily and RJ by letting them know he’s alright…well…he’s alive and physically healthy.
I watch him go and wish I could say something else to comfort him. As I walk into the hall, I feel arms around my waist and immediately know that it’s Dustin. I sigh and he kisses the top of my head. I just wish I knew what this all meant…
---
To Be Continued