Dedication

To those that have stayed with this series, thank you! I started writing this series back when I was in high school and in a creative writing class. At first they were short stories that my classmates fell in love with. One of my friends suggested that I post them on another site (which I had to close down due to having no time to keep it up) and when I found Bookrix.com I thought that this would be a good time to edit them and put them on here to share with a new generation. Thank you all so much!

Author's Note

This was a very trying fanfic for me to write because not only did I know I had to say goodbye to one of my favorite characters in this book, I knew that it would be the last to book I would write for this series. If I thought writing this series was hectic (and believe me, I DID!!! The characters always seemed to take on lives of their own!), writing this story in particular was extremely hard for me. I'm not going to say who we say goodbye to in this book. I hope you all do not grow angry with me over this major change and hope you stay with me for the next upcoming volume.

Part One

Chapter One

"Keith," said Tamara, glancing at the young man sitting next to her on the row of cushioned seats, "are you okay?"

Keith glanced up at his girlfriend, a weary smile on his tan face. "Sure I'm okay. Why do you ask?"

"Because if my parents were visiting me for my birthday, I'd be ecstatic!" the energetic teen stated, tossing her long ebony braid behind her back, "But you seem... anxious. Aren't you looking forward to seeing your family?"

"Well, I haven't seen them in a while," Keith admitted, "Since... I left for Japan for a semester abroad. I am

looking forward to spending some time with Mom and Connie, but Dad..."

"You don't get along with him, do you?" Tamara inquired. Keith sighed, shaking his head in the negative.

"He's been on my case for years, ever since middle school. He thinks I'm a slacker, with no direction in life. He also thinks I don't care about anything but myself, and that the word 'responsibility' isn't in my vocabulary."

"You're exaggerating," Tamara said, a smirk on her face, "I'm sure he loves you."

"I'm not," Keith mumbled, folding his hands tightly, "He always finds a way to criticize me. It makes it really hard for me to tell him anything, or even be in the same room with him."

"Well, I hate to admit it, but you did slack off a little..."

Tamara smiled at Keith's reaction: a surprised and displeased raised eyebrow. "..but you've changed," she finished, taking his hand. She brushed her fingers against the silver band on his finger, with a fiery red gemstone encrusted on the elegantly-designed ring. "Ever since you've become a superhero, you've learned levels of responsibility most people will never even know exist! I mean, the entire world is resting on our shoulders!"

"It's not like I can tell Dad I'm the Red Enforcer," Keith said grimly, "After all, we all decided to keep our identities a secret. Besides Chris, and the Power Rangers, no one has seen the Spectrum Force without their masks."

"True," Tamara admitted, "but you're a different person. I'm sure your father will see how you've grown up since you saw him last."

"I doubt it," Keith muttered, "My Dad only sees what he wants to see."

"Keep your spirits up!" Tammy said, tightening her grip on her boyfriend's hand, "Be respectful to him, and he'll see you've matured. And remember to keep your temper in check... no matter what he says."

Keith chuckled, and gazed at Tamara in amazement. "You know me better than anyone, Tammy. What would I ever do without you?"

In answer, Tamara kissed Keith gently on the lips. "Let's hope you'll never have to find out."

^Flight 345, direct from Austin Texas, now arriving at Gate 13,^ the intercom signaled. Keith glanced up at the gate, where people were already congregating, excited to greet friends and family members. Keith rose to his feet, not letting go of Tamara's hand. Tamara followed, and together, they walked to the gate. Keith's grip tightened as he saw three familiar people walk into the airport.

"Keith!" called a tall woman, apparently in her late forties, with sand-hued hair streaked with a few strands of gray. "Happy Birthday!!"

"Hi, Mom," Keith said, hugging his mother tightly. Tamara stepped away from the reunion, a sentimental smile on her face. After a few moments, his mother let go, and kissed him on the cheek.

"We've missed you so much!" she declared.

"I've missed you too," Keith replied.

"Hey, Big Brother," called a slender girl dressed in blue jeans and a baby-tee. Her vibrant ocean-blue eyes glimmered past the blonde bangs that hung over her forehead, and the dark eyeliner she wore only made them look larger. She grinned widely at her older brother, and spread her arms open to greet him as he stepped closer.

"How are you, Runt?" he asked, hugging his little sister tightly.

Constance Maloy sighed, rolling her azure eyes dramatically before focusing them on Tamara. "How on Earth do you put up with him?" she exclaimed, "He's three

years older than me, but I'm more mature!" She then turned her potent gaze upon her brother. "And for your information, I'm not a runt! Five foot three is a perfectly respectable height for a young woman."

"If you say so," Keith said, his grin widening.

Connie then smiled, punching her brother in the shoulder. "So, how does it feel to finally be old enough to drink legally? That

should keep the campus cops off your back, eh?"

Keith groaned. "Don't make me tickle you in public," he warned.

Connie stifled a giggle as she stepped out of arm's length from her brother.

Keith then looked up, and his grin fell sharply. Standing a few feet behind Connie was a man in his early fifties, with a full head of graying blonde hair, cut short and neat. He was dressed in a navy blue blazer, button down shirt, and jeans, and he stood tall and straight, with his hands behind his back. His expression was a deeply entrenched frown, as if it was the only expression his face could display. Keith stood up, and walked over to greet him.

"Hello, Dad," Keith said quietly. He suddenly felt extremely nervous, as he always did when he met his father's scrutinous gaze.

Stephen Maloy III nodded in response, and walked around his son in a circle, examining his appearance carefully. Keith practically held his breath, virtually frozen by the feel of his father's cold ice-blue eyes on his back.

"So, you're letting your hair grow," Stephen observed in a brisk voice. He shook his head at the short golden blonde ponytail, reaching the base of Keith's neck.

"Um, yeah," Keith responded, "I... I like it long, Dad."

"Are you some kind of Hippie?" Stephen practically barked, "Keith, you're a business man! How will anyone take you seriously with that ponytail?!"

"Dad, I'm not a business man!" Keith yelled, turning to face his father, "I'm a college student! And it's fine to have a ponytail in college!"

"It's rebellious and immature," Stephen replied in an equally loud voice, "It is not fitting of a Maloy!"

"I'll wear my hair how I want to!" Keith yelled, his ocean blue eyes flashing.

Tamara gazed at the two Maloy men in shock. She then glanced at Connie and Monica, who stood quietly to the side, frowning. They weren't the least surprised by this tense argument. Tamara finally decided to intervene, and tapped Keith on the shoulder.

"Keith," she said, "you haven't introduced me to your family."

"Oh," Keith said, grateful for the intervention. He suddenly felt embarrassed for having argued with his father in front of her. "Um, Dad, this is Tamara Fox, my girlfriend. Tammy, this is my father, Stephen Maloy III."

Stephen's expression remained harsh and enraged, but it didn't phase Tamara. She flashed him her most brilliant, disarming smile, and extended her hand. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Mister Maloy."

"Hello," he said gruffly, shaking her hand. Keith then took Tamara's hand, and walked away from his father to the rest of his family.

"Tammy, this is my mother Monica, and my little sister, Connie."

"It's wonderful to meet you, Tammy," said Monica with a warm smile.

"I'm glad to finally meet you, Mrs. Maloy."

"Please, call me Monica."

"Hello, Tammy," Connie said, shaking the taller woman's hand.

"Hi, Connie," Tamara greeted warmly. She then turned to Keith. "So this is your whole family?"

"No," Keith answered, "my older brother Stephen couldn't come for the weekend. He's at Johns Hopkins University studying to be a neurologist, and he's got a presentation to prepare for Monday."

"Yeah," Connie piped up, "fortunately for Keith, one of his siblings was sacrificing enough to bring her books with her, so she could study for her classes without missing his birthday. I told you about that nightmarish microbiology exam I have this upcoming Wednesday, right?"

"You only mentioned it about four times," Keith said with a grin.

"Microbiology, eh?" Tamara said, grimacing slightly, "I think Matt took that class. He said it was murder, and that he would never had taken it if he didn't have to."

"Well," Connie said with a shrug, "I'm a bacteriology major, so I don't really have choice on the matter."

"Wow," Tamara gasped, "that's an unusual major."

"I guess I'm just an unusual person," Connie responded with a humored smile.

"So," said Stephen, interrupting the conversation, "shall we leave the airport and get settled in the hotel?"

"You took the words out of my mouth," whispered Keith, as he and Tamara led the way to the baggage claim. As Keith's family searched for their luggage, Keith turned Tamara to face him, and lightly brushed his lips against hers in a delicate kiss.

"What was that for?" she asked, somewhat surprised.

"For saving my life," he said with a smile, "I told you, he always criticizes me!"

"Is there a reason why he's so hard on you?" Tamara asked.

"Yeah. My brother, Stephen Maloy IV, is everything Dad wanted in a son. He's smart, resourceful, obedient... you name it. But Stevie didn't want to inherit Dad's company. He wanted to be a surgeon, meaning I'm next in line. I guess Dad's trying to make me into Stevie, so he can be confident enough of me to let me have the company without worrying. I just wish he'd just accept me for who I am. I may not be the most scholastically accomplished man on Earth, but I do get decent grades, even with being an Enforcer. I guess he'll never see me as anything but a jock."

Chapter Two

About a mile above Earth, circling in geo-synchronous orbit above LA, was an asteroid-shaped alien ship, easily as large as a city. However, it was cloaked, to prevent detection from human technology. Inside that ship was an entire army of alien beings: soldiers, scientists, magicians, intellectuals, and servants. In the exact center of the ship was a group of chambers specifically for the royal family of Denebia. Inside the throne room, Acheron marched pensively on the cold ground. His velvety cape followed behind him, and his forest green hair hung around his face. He looked up as he heard the circular door iris open, allowing someone to enter. Phaedra, the empress of the Denebians, stepped into the throne room, her own emerald hair woven intricately around her royal crown. She fixed her blood red eyes on her husband, her body wrapped by her own cape.

"You wished to see me?" she asked him, tilting her head inquiringly.

"I have prepared the Phoenix energies for their use," he announced, approaching her, "I shall cast the most powerful spell ever to exist!"

Phaedra saw the cold excitement in her husband's eyes. She frowned skeptically. "And what spell is that?"

Acheron smiled at his queen, and opened his hand. A tiny crystal, about the size of a marble, appeared. Phaedra stared at it, and noticed the swirling black mist inside the clear gem.

"This is the Nightfall," Acheron said proudly. Phaedra's eyes widened in amazement.

"The Nightfall?!" she declared, looking up at her husband's ash-colored face, "Impossible! It was destroyed by the White Denebians eons ago!"

"No, it wasn't," Acheron said, "The Nightfall cannot be destroyed. It can only be contained. The White Denebians managed to encase the Nightfall mist into one of their White Stones, trapping it and preventing the evil mists to drain the energy of the star Rigel. Once the Nightfall was encased, they threw the gem into Rigel, presumably preventing any Black Denebian to retrieve it, since we cannot survive the light of a star."

"So how did you get the gem?" Phaedra asked, "Very few races can enter the core of a star and survive!"

"True indeed. Do you remember hearing of the White Denebian Quislin?"

"He was the only member of the Council of Light to ever turn evil," Phaedra recalled.

"Exactly. Quislin was the cousin of Luminus, the leader of the Council, and the keeper of all four White Stones in existence, since the fifth and final stone was already used to encase the Nightfall. One day, Quislin decided that he would be the greatest wizard, and that he wanted the magical powers of the White Stones. He tried to steal all four gems, but he only managed to steal two when he was discovered. He fled the Council, who chased him across the cosmos. Quislin knew he was in danger, for even with the two White Stones, he couldn't defeat the rest of the Council. He came to me, begging me to send him somewhere far away. Apparently, in his haste to escape the Council, he didn't bring a Hyperspace Controller with him, so he couldn't use the Hyperspace Portals scattered throughout the universe. I agreed-- on the condition that he retrieve the Nightfall for me. He agreed, and did as I asked. And I kept my word. He needed to escape as far away from the Council as he could. So, I programmed the nearest Hyperspace Portal for a distant star system-- this one. He fled to Earth, but the Council soon found him anyway. It doesn't matter to me, though. He gave me the Nightfall. That is all I wanted of him."

"Why haven't you used the Nightfall before?" Phaedra asked in disbelief, "If memory serves, Quislin was captured and executed by the Council of Light nearly a thousand Earth years ago. You have had the Nightfall for a millenium?!"

"The Nightfall was encased in the White Stone for eons," Acheron explained, "In fact, the whole reason the White Denebians banded together against the Empire was to stop the Nightfall from destroying every star in the universe. They created the five White Stones using all the magic they could muster, and used one to capture the Nightfall. The crystal is White, and therefore it reflects all energy that touches it. The Nightfall feeds off light and life energy. It has been starved. The only way to revitalize it enough for it to break free from its crystalline tomb is to nourish it with as much life energy as can be mustered. The Phoenix is the only force in existence with enough raw energy to do that task. Come with me."

Phaedra nodded, and followed as Acheron marched through the hallways of the ship, carrying the crystal in both hands as if it were as fragile as an egg. As the royal couple passed, each Denebian they encountered bowed deeply, and stepped to the side, allowing them to pass freely. Soon, they were inside the storage chambers, in which Acheron kept the batteries containing Phoenix's stolen energy.

"Help me pool all the energy together," Acheron said. Phaedra nodded, and sealed the door to the chamber, containing the royal couple, the Nightfall gem, and the batteries within. Then, both Denebians opened each battery, allowing the contained energy to flow freely into the dark chamber. The chamber began to glow with the pale fiery light. Once all the batteries were emptied, Acheron stepped into the glowing mist that coated the ground, and placed the Nightfall gem within it. He then clasped his hands in front of him, and they began to spark with black energy.

"We must create a crack in the gem," he instructed Phaedra, "Then, at least some of the energy will be able to pass through, allowing the Nightfall to absorb it, and grow strong enough to break completely free. Only black energy can damage the White Stone-- all else is reflected back."

"Is there any way we can free Nightfall without destroying the White Stone?" Phaedra asked, her own hands beginning to glow from concentrated black energy, "I'm sure we can find many uses for a White Stone. After all, if it reflects all the energy that touches it, it can even protect a Denebian from the rays of the Sun!"

"The only way to free Nightfall is to destroy its prison," Acheron huffed with exertion, "Once Nightfall is free, it shall suck the life out of the Sun in a matter of days. Only another White Gem can stop it, and Quislin was kind enough to lose two of the four! That means only two remain in all existence-- one is being used by the Spectrum Force, and the other is used by another team of heroes. If the Spectrum Force rejoins the Spectrum Stones into a White Stone, then that means Earth will be unprotected. They have no way to save themselves."

"Once the Nightfall blocks the Sun, we shall begin our invasion," Phaedra declared, "We shall start by sending a creature to Langstrum Alps, to finally defeat the Spectrum Force, and force them to deplete their stored energy. Without the Sun to replenish the stones, they will lose."

"And once the Spectrum Force has been defeated, we can conquer the entire planet, and forge a foothold in this sector of the galaxy for the Denebian Empire!" Acheron added, pointing his two index fingers at the stone containing the Nightfall. A tight beam of black energy flew at the White Stone. Phaedra added her own beam to his, and the two struck the exact point. After over ten minutes of constant firing, the gem began to glow. Then, the two Denebian rulers witnessed the orange aura of Phoenix energy suddenly begin to be sucked into the crystal at the point they were firing. Both stopped their energy barrage simultaneously, and watched as all the Phoenix energy entered the crystal. Then, the crystal suddenly exploded, leaving a cloud of black mist hanging in the air.

"Is that the entire thing?" Phaedra asked, clearly unimpressed.

"Volume means nothing for the Nightfall," Acheron said, approaching the dense cloud of blackness, "It can fit inside a pinhead, or blanket an entire star. And that is exactly what it is going to do."

Acheron snapped his fingers, and the Nightfall mist vanished from the chamber. He then turned to Phaedra, who had a pleased smile on her face.

"The Spectrum Force has two options," she said, "They either combine their Spectrum Stones into a White Stone, and absorb the Nightfall, or they let Earth freeze over when the Sun vanishes."

"And if they do form the White Stone to capture Nightfall, nothing can stop the Denebian armada from launching a planetary attack!"

Chapter Three

A young man in gray sweats and a plain white T-shirt dodged a stream of five purple energy blasts that streaked towards him. He then leapt to the side as another blast of energy, this one more massive, flew in his general direction. After somersaulting along the golden floor, he rose to his feet, and focused his eyes at his attacker. Two tight beams of bright white light shot from his eyes, plowing at her. But she was already gone before the beams struck, leaving a spark of purple energy in her wake. She rematerialized behind the young man, her fist glowing with purple light. She then hurled that energy toward him in the shape of a javelin, which he attempted to avoid. But he wasn't fast enough, and the javelin struck his ankle, and dissipated. With a muffled grunt, he fell to the floor.

"Do you yield?" the Purple Enforcer asked, her silver Lightning Saber taking shape in her hands.

"No," he said indignantly, firing another optic beam at her. She deflected the searing white energy with her sword, but he took advantage of her momentary distraction to roll out of harm's way. However, he soon found himself with his back against the wall.

"Last chance," she repeated, "Do you yield?"

Instead of responding verbally, he grinned cunningly, his eyes glowing with white light. Rachel's visor protected her eyes from the intense light, but she was still awestruck at the focus of power. As she watched, a pair of white wings, composed of bright energy, erupted out of her opponent's back. The wings stretched to full span, and then wrapped around his body. Then, they unfolded, releasing a powerful showering of white energy. Rachel tried to block the onslaught with a Spectrum Shield, but it didn't help. She was flung across the chamber, and crashed against the wall.

"Not bad," she said, rubbing the back of her head, "Not bad at all."

She glanced up, and noticed that he was kneeling on the ground, panting heavily.

"Chris?" she asked, running to his side. Her blue visor vanished, revealing concerned deep brown eyes.

"I'm... fine," he responded, taking a deep breath, "Just give me a minute."

"It still hurts when you form your wings," she observed, helping Chris Greyson to his feet. He nodded, and squeezed his eyes shut.

"It's not as bad as it was at first," he said, opening his eyes again, "Every time I summon my energy wings, the pain lessens. I can handle it."

"I still don't like the idea of training you to fight," Rachel uttered, crossing her arms, "It's true that you have these powers, but you don't have a Spectrum Stone to protect you! Your abilities don't include heightened durability, and one of Phaedra's creatures can cause a lot of damage."

"Yeah," Chris said, "that's why I need the training! I'm not planning on joining the Spectrum Force or anything, but you may need some backup." He grinned. "It's sweet that you're worried about me, though."

Rachel blushed slightly, and shrugged. "Well, ever since that encounter with the Phoenix, all I've done is worry about you."

Rachel's admission was followed by a long silence, which was broken by the sound of teleportation. Both turned around, and smiled at Spectra, the mentor of the Spectrum Force.

"You have both done well in your exercise," said Spectra, approaching the couple, "According to my observations, your mutation has given you marginally increased agility and speed, telepathy, as well as psionic energy blasts that can be thrown from your eyes or hands, and a focus of psionic energy in your back, allowing you to concretize your energy in the shape of wings. Your psionic abilities also allow you to somehow register memory energy within objects, causing you to experience memories of objects contacted tactilely. Christopher, perhaps you should deactivate your wings. Maintaining their energy depletes you."

Chris nodded, and the wings disappeared into his back. Rachel smiled with amusement when she noticed Chris' T-shirt had nearly been ripped to shreads.

"You're going to run out of shirts if you keep forming your wings, Chris," she said.

"That's definitely a problem," Chris said, looking down at his shirt.

"I believe I can remedy that problem," said Spectra, her eyes beginning to glow. Chris' clothes began to glow white, and suddenly, they were replaced by a solid white bodysuit, covering his entire body from his chin down. It fit just like a second skin, and moved with Chris' body.

"What's this?" he asked.

"It is a uniform made of unstable molecules," Spectra explained, "Your psionic powers can control it, reshaping it into whatever shape or color you choose. Since you focus your energy through the material, any energy blasts you throw, or even your wings will pass through the garment unimpeded. However, although your own energy can pass through, nothing else can."

"So it's like a body armor?" Rachel asked, examining Chris' costume with interest.

"Essentially," Spectra replied, "but it isn't quite as durable as the Spectrum Force's uniforms. The principles behind them are somewhat similar, though."

"Let's give this a shot, then," Chris said, closing his eyes. Rachel stared in amazement as Chris' uniform glowed and rippled on his body. The sleeves flowed up his arms like water, and the legs loosened, and the final product was the T-shirt and sweats he was wearing moments ago. Once the transformation was complete, the eerie glow subsided, and the clothing stabilized. Chris opened his eyes, and smoothed his shirt with his hands.

"If even feels like cotton!" he marveled.

"Let's just hope it's machine wash," Rachel quipped.

"It can weather the elements without damage, and protect from extreme heat or cold, as well as energy or kinetic assaults," Spectra highlighted.

"Great!" said Chris, grinning widely, "So now I have a uniform, to protect my identity and stuff. But do I need a superhero name?"

"I thought you said you weren't going to be a superhero," Rachel pointed out.

"Well, not full-time, anyway." he answered, still smiling with excitement.

"Fine," said Rachel, "but if you want to fight with the Spectrum Force, you have to follow my orders."

"Don't I anyway?" he joked. Rachel raised an eyebrow.

Suddenly, Spectra's eyes widened, and she pivoted her head, and stared upwards and to the side, as if she had heard something from that direction. Rachel and Chris noticed her actions, and followed her gaze. But all they saw was the high ceiling of Cloud Castle's lower training room.

"Spectra?" Rachel asked, "What's going on?"

"It's... impossible," Spectra whispered, more to herself than her young companions, "After all these centuries... it's back."

"What's back?" Chris inquired. Spectra locked eyes with Chris and then Rachel. Rachel shuddered at Spectra's expression. It was the first time the Purple Enforcer had ever seen the usually calm and collected sorceress display fear. And the fear in Spectra's ancient, wise eyes was fathomless.

"I'll be back," Spectra said, stepping backwards away from them, "Do not leave Cloud Castle."

Suddenly, in a brilliant pulse of white light, Spectra's form vanished. Chris and Rachel looked at each other in confusion and surprise. Rachel immediately began pacing across the metallic floor, and Chris followed her around the room with his eyes. Then, Rachel stopped, and looked up at Chris, a pensive frown on her face.

"Are you as scared as I am?" she asked quietly.

"Definitely," he answered, "Whatever could scare Spectra that badly can't be good for Earth."

Chapter Four

Meanwhile, on the Hamilton Walkway in the center of the UCLA campus, Craig Gillis, Jocelyn Armand, and Matthew O'Conner walked towards the cafeteria for lunch after a long morning of classes.

"I can't believe I got a C on that Clinical Psych midterm!" Craig growled, a bitter scowl on his face, "That means I'll have to get an A on the final if I'm going to pull a B in the class!"

"It's not the end of the world," Jocelyn said. Craig frowned at her.

"Like you ever got a C, Brainiac," he muttered.

"I'm trying to cheer you up!" she shot back, "Besides, with all the attacks the Denebians have been sending, its no wonder your grades are slipping. That whole mess with Phoenix and Acheron was a nightmare!"

"It's not like I can tell my advisors why my grades are slipping," Craig remarked, "My chances of getting on the Dean's List are shot."

"Come on, Craig," Matt said with a smile, "Once Doctor McNeil curves the exam, you'll probably end up with an A."

Craig looked at Matt, his eyebrow arched. "She already curved the exam. That's how I got a C."

Matt's smile fell. "Ouch."

"Exactly."

Suddenly, the sky grew darker. Matthew blinked, and glanced up at the sky. His dark green eyes widened. "I don't believe it..." he muttered.

"You mean it's not a passing cloud?" Jocelyn said, turning from her friend to the sky. A frown crossed her delicate features when she saw a black shape slowly block the Sun. "Not again!" she fumed.

"Why would Phaedra try to eclipse the Sun again?" Craig pondered aloud, "I mean, it didn't work the first time. Spectra managed to dispel the black cloud, before she even summoned us to be the Spectrum Force."

"We'd better get to Cloud Castle," Matt said, walking off the walkway between two buildings. Jocelyn and Craig followed, and the three college students held up their rings. At once, they all transformed into beams of orange, green, and blue light respectively, and streaked through the darkened sky to the clouds above.

Chapter Five

"Here we are," Keith said, parking Rachel's minivan right in front of the Ramada Hotel on the UCLA campus. He borrowed his friend's car because his car, a tomato red Porsche, wasn't large enough to fit the entire Maloy family, and their luggage.

"Good," Stephen said, getting out of the passenger side. Keith sighed inwardly, and turned off the car. During the entire drive from the airport, neither Maloy man spoke a word to each other. Connie and Monica, however, were enjoying an animated conversation with Tamara in the back. Keith had almost asked Tamara to drive, so she could sit by Stephen. But that would probably seem obvious, so he decided to just deal with it.

At least we didn't argue,

Keith thought grimly, opening the fifth door and pulling out some luggage. Suddenly, a shadow passed over the parking lot. Keith paid no attention, until he heard a shriek from next to him. His sister had just climbed out of the car, and stared in horror at the black cloud covering the Sun.

"What's that?" she asked.

"Oh no," Tamara uttered, following Connie out of the automobile. She looked questioningly toward Keith, who met her gaze immediately. He had a concerned expression on his face. They both knew what was happening.

"Is it some kind of eclipse?" Monica asked, unconsciously leaning against her husband.

"I... I don't know," Stephen replied, awestruck.

"Oh!" gasped Tamara, "I forgot, we have to pick up Rachel from the museum!"

"What?" said Stephen.

"Right," Keith said, "She... lent us her car so we could pick you guys up, so she asked us to pick her up from the museum across town, since she won't have a car."

"Why didn't you lend her your car?" Monica asked her son. He blinked.

"Rachel can't drive a stick-shift," Tamara answered quickly, "C'mon, Keith! Ray's probably steamed!"

"I'll be back as soon as I can," Keith told his family, "Um, maybe you should stay in your hotel room? Just until the Sun comes out again?"

Stephen's eyebrow rose. "Why? Do you think an eclipse is something dangerous?"

"Well, who knows what it could be," Tamara said, "Rather be safe than sorry."

Stephen shrugged, and the rest of the Maloy family collected their luggage and entered the hotel. Keith and Tamara hopped into the minivan, and drove it out of the parking lot, and down the street. As soon as they were a bit away from the hotel, they parked along the street, and hurried to a secluded spot amongst some trees.

"To Cloud Castle!" they both exclaimed, their bodies glowing with red and yellow light, respectively. They transformed into sleek beams of light, and streaked through the darkened sky to a tangible cloud. Atop that cloud was the majestic Cloud Castle, a magical construct hidden within the clouds. They sailed through the large window on the second floor, and landed inside the throne room. Once they materialized, they noticed that Jocelyn, Craig, Chris, Matt, and Rachel were already there. But someone was surprisingly missing.

"Where's Spectra?" Tamara inquired, glancing at the empty throne.

"She just up and left," Chris said, "about fifteen minutes ago. Rachel and I were downstairs, in the training room, so we came up here when Jocelyn, Matt, and Craig appeared. It was then that we noticed the eclipse."

"Why would Phaedra create another eclipse?" Keith pondered, "It didn't work the first time."

"This is different," Rachel said, "Spectra recognized whatever evil spell the Denebians cast, and she nearly panicked."

"Spectra?" said Matt in disbelief, "Spectra nearly panicked?!"

"Yeah," said Chris, "and we don't know why."

Suddenly, in a flash of white light, Spectra appeared on her throne, her face cast downward. She glanced up at her Spectrum Force, and all the humans present gasped at her expression. Her pale features were creased with anxiety, and her muscles appeared tense.

"What's going on?" Keith demanded.

Spectra drew a long breath, and gazed intently at the hot-headed young man. "Acheron and Phaedra have released the Nightfall... the most evil, lethal magical creature in existence. That is the cloud that covers the Sun as we speak."

"What does it do?" Jocelyn asked.

"It feeds off the light and energy of stars. Once it has consumed its fill, the entire Sun will be reduced to a dead star, giving off no light or heat energy. And then the Nightfall will continue on, consuming every star it comes near without ever stopping."

The Spectrum Force gasped. "So how do we destroy it?" Matt asked.

Spectra closed her eyes tightly, and paused for a moment. "You can't."

"Excuse me?" Craig said, blinking.

Spectra gazed intently at the team, her eyes expressing a creeping feeling of hopelessness. "I said you can't," she repeated louder, "The Nightfall cannot be destroyed. Earth, as well as all the planets circling the Sun, are doomed. And there is nothing you can do to prevent it."

Part Two

Chapter Six

Stunned silence reigned for several minutes, as the seven college students absorbed the weight of Spectra's decree. The quiet was grave, to the point that you could hear a heartbeat. And considering the panic that began rising within the assembled heroes, the heartbeats quickened.

"Earth is doomed?" Jocelyn repeated blankly, "And there isn't a single thing we can do about it?"

Spectra nodded silently.

"That's bull!" Keith yelled angrily, "We're superheroes! There must be something we can do! Why can't the Nightfall be destroyed?"

"Because the mightiest magicians in the cosmos have tried, and failed. Eons ago, when the Denebian Empire was young, and their greatest warlocks and witches were alive, they all cooperated in creating the Nightfall, which is a living organism that has an endless appetite for consuming energy. After centuries of diligent work, the Nightfall was perfected, and unleashed into the galaxy. The Nightfall consumed the stars near Deneb, leaving nothing but neutron stars in its wake. By drinking the fusion energy of a star, the Nightfall hastens the star's dying process. Star's take billions of years to age and die, but the Nightfall reduces the cycle to a matter of days. One by one, all the neighboring stars were consumed, and the planets that orbited those stars froze in the coldness of space. Dozens of civilizations weere eliminated. Once the star was blocked, the Denebian armada was safe from the light rays, and pillaged the planet. Once they had stolen all the magical knowledge and slaves they desired from the planet, they left, leaving the remaining natives to freeze to death."

"That's terrible," Tamara gasped.

"Indeed," Spectra agreed, "Many of the civilizations that were attacked were mighty in magic, which is why the Denebians targeted them. But no matter how great the magical spells, nothing could stop the Nightfall. So it cannot be destroyed."

"But, if the Nightfall was created eons ago, why didn't it destroy the entire universe already?" Jocelyn asked.

"Because it wasn't allowed to. The White Denebians witnessed the horrors the Denebian creation had caused, and vowed to stop it. So they united, and formed the Council of Light. The entire nation of White Denebians put their magical efforts together, and formed five magical crystals of unparalleled magical power. These are the White Stones. One White Stone was used to contain the Nightfall, preventing it from destroying anything else. The Council then threw the Nightfall, now contained in a magical crystal, into a star, because the Black Denebians can never enter a star to retrieve it. From inside the White Stone, the Nightfall couldn't consume energy, and so it weakened. It had been captured for ages, but somehow, it has been released."

"There were five of these White Stones," Chris pointed out, "So why can't we just get one of the other four?"

Spectra shook her head, her salmon-hued locks casting a shadow over her brow. "I tried," she said, "That's why I left before. I tried to contact the wise Luminus, who keeps a White Stone. But he cannot let us have it."

"Why?" asked Rachel.

"The White Stone Luminus still possesses has been fragmented into seven pieces, which now power the Star Riders, a team of superheroes who span the universe, and battle the Denebian forces in the more distant quadrants of space. Without the Star Riders to protect them, dozens of civilizations could be destroyed."

"Where are the other three?" Craig inquired.

"Two were stolen by a traitor, and were lost. The other has been fragmented into six pieces, and now powers the Spectrum Force."

Everyone's eyes widened in surprise. "So why can't we contain it?" Keith asked.

"In order to contain the Nightfall, all the shards must be united to form the White Stone. Then, once the Nightfall is trapped within, the White Stone cannot be used for anything else. It will forever remain a prison for the evil creation."

"I see," said Rachel, nodding with understanding, "If we were to recreate the White Stone, then that means the end of the Spectrum Force..."

"...and no one will be left to stop the Denebians from conquering the planet with their other methods," Matt concluded, running a shaking hand through his rust hair, "Isn't there some other way to capture the Nightfall?"

Spectra shook her head in the negative.

"Maybe we can find one of the lost gems?" Tamara suggested.

"Impossible," Spectra said, "Although it is rumored that they are somewhere in this solar system, we simply do not have the time. The Nightfall will completely destroy the Sun within seven days, and whatever damage that is done cannot be reversed. I'm sorry."

"What do you mean you're sorry?" Keith asked, folding his arms, "We're not giving up yet!"

"What can we do?" Matt groaned, sitting heavily on one of the golden steps, "There's absolutely nothing we can do. It's a no win situation..."

"You're really optimistic today," Jocelyn muttered, casting her hazel gaze at her best friend, "I guess the only thing we can do is search for the two missing White Stones. It's our only chance."

Rachel continued her nervous pacing, her brow wrinkled as she analyzed all the possible options at their disposal. "Can't the Star Riders come here, and fight off the Denebians after we use our Spectrum Stones to trap Nightfall?"

"They cannot arrive in time," Spectra said, "Luminus told me they are currently on a mission."

"Then let's call some reinforcements from the Multiverse!" contributed Tamara, "The Power Rangers will help us."

"True," said Rachel, "but for how long? They can't stay here permanently, to keep fighting off the Denebians. They have their own planet to protect. This is our

fight, team."

"Hey guys!" said Chris, pointing out the window, "Look!"

The Spectrum Force turned around, and was startled to see snowflakes falling towards the Earth below.

"It was supposed to rain today," Matt recalled, "I guess the temperature's dropped so low the rain is falling as snow."

"Great," sighed Jocelyn, "If there's snow in Langstrum Alps, can you imagine how cold it is up north? The whole planet will freeze over!"

"And with the Sun blocked, there's nothing stopping the Denebians from sending foot-soldiers," whispered Tamara.

"And without the Sun to re-energize our rings, we can't fight them off for long," Craig summed up weakly.

"Dammit!" Keith shouted, pounding his fist into his open palm.

Chapter Seven

Far above Earth, in the intimidating Denebian Flagship, Phaedra stretched her narrow fingers over a small pool of water, about four feet across and two feet deep. While she moved her fingers in a typing motion, bolts of black energy flowed from her long nails into the glowing, clouded liquid. Nearby, her husband Acheron and daughter Celea waited for her to complete her spell. Celea was busily selecting from her wide collection of magical arrows, kept in a closet against the wall. Acheron stood beside her, observing his daughter's choices.

"I always thought the Flare Arrows were the most interesting," Acheron commented, holding a narrow orange colored arrow, "The condensed force of heat is enough to instantly turn many species into ash."

"I prefer the Graviton Arrow," Celea remarked, slipping a gray arrow into her quiver, "The pressure field it creates can actually transform a block of coal into a diamond in minutes. Not even a Spectrum Shield can save someone from being squeezed to death."

"Don't forget to bring Disrupter Arrows, to break the Spectrum Force's link to their powers. The more they have to transform, the quicker they'll use up what energy they still have."

"Celea," Phaedra called, looking up from the pool of water to her daughter, "have you prepared the foot-soldiers?"

Celea nodded, an ecstatic glint in her crimson eyes. "Indeed. I have collected an army of Denebian soldiers to span the Earth. They are more effective than Shadow Warriors, now that the Sun has been blocked, and they do not require the expense of our magical powers."

"Send them all to Langstrum Alps," Phaedra commanded, "I want to lay waste to the city the Spectrum Force has defended since their inception."

"What of the Force?" asked Acheron. Phaedra smiled.

"Shiva will deal with them," she answered, gesturing to the pool of water, "He is nearly ready for battle."

"Where will you place Shiva?" Celea inquired, "He can only exist in a water source just above freezing."

"There is a river that flows through the city. With the Sun blocked, it shan't take long for the temperature to drop low enough. Now Celea, I want you to lead the attack against the city. Do not engage the Spectrum Force, unless Shiva is somehow defeated."

Celea nodded, and strapped her quiver behind her back. She bowed lightly to both parents, and left the chamber. Phaedra glanced at the pool, and saw a gruesome black tentacle, almost as large as the pool itself, stretch towards the ceiling. She snapped her finger, and the tentacle vanished, along with the magical pool. With a reserved nod of satisfaction, the Dark Empress turned to her husband.

"Shiva has been teleported to Earth," she reported, casually folding her arms, "He will make short work of the Spectrum Force."

"Or at least force their hand," Acheron agreed, "Nightfall has already shortened the life of the Sun by a thousand years. At this rate, the entire star will be destroyed in about seven days."

Chapter Eight

Within the golden walls of Cloud Castle, the six members of the Spectrum Force, as well as their friend Chris Greyson, pondered every possible alternative. Spectra herself sat silently on her throne, her eyes tightly shut in concentration.

"Okay," said Rachel, pressing the bridge of her nose with her fingers, "we don't know how much time we have left until our efforts are meaningless. We have to do something, and soon."

"We can at least try to find the two missing White Stones," Craig offered, "I know our chances are slim, but they are the only things that can preserve Earth."

"But what if we don't find them?" asked Tamara quietly.

"Don't forget, we only have a few hours of power left in our Spectrum Stones," Matt pointed out, "If we spend too much time synched, we'll be completely helpless."

"Not really," said Jocelyn, "Once our stones have been depleted, we can still form the White Stone. I say we search for the gems until our stones are completely wiped. Once that happens, we rejoin the White Stone, and recapture the Nightfall. We won't be able to save Earth, but at least we can save the rest of the universe."

The rest of the team remained silent, each youth making all effort not to make eye contact with anyone else.

"Guys," Jocelyn said faintly, knotting her fingers with agitation, "I know it's hard, but we have to be realistic. The chances of us finding some way to save Earth are slim. We have to think of the greater good, and consider the rest of the universe. If we don't stop Nightfall, then who will? Millions of civilizations across the universe will be destroyed!"

Silence continued to reign for a few minutes, until Chris rose from his perch on the stairs, and cast his eyes around the room. "She's right," he stated firmly, "What else can we do?"

"Wait," said Keith, nervously running his hands through his thick blonde hair, "maybe there is something. Spectra said that the Nightfall was encased in a White Stone before the Denebians released it. Maybe we can storm their flagship and get that stone!"

Tamara shook her head, and wrapped her arms around Keith's. "It's not possible," she said, "Assuming the White Stone is still around, we'd have to face the entire Denebian army, including Celea, Acheron, and Phaedra. And we won't even have full power."

"At least we can take some of them with us," Keith muttered, gently pushing Tamara off his arm as he rose to his feet. He marched across the room, stopping at the foot of Spectra's throne.

"Spectra," he said, trying to get her attention. But she didn't respond. Keith's patience was quickly running slim.

"Spectra!!" he yelled, climbing up the stairs to her throne. About halfway up the set of golden stairs, he halted when Spectra's eyes suddenly opened.

"What were you doing?" he demanded, "Why aren't you helping us figure out what to do?!"

"Because I cannot," she replied, "I have heard all your options, and none of them can save this planet. No matter what you do, Earth is doomed."

"So what do we do?" he pressed with exasperation.

"That is for you to decide," she responded, rising to her feet. She walked down the stairs passed the infuriated Red Enforcer, and halted before the large the window. Her eyes released a bright white light as she stared both above, and at the Earth below. She then turned around to face her Spectrum Force.

"The decision is yours," she repeated, "I am merely your advisor, not your commander. I do not make the decisions. Rather, I guide you in the best manner I think possible. This is your planet, and the White Stone split between you is now your possession, and your responsibility. You must decide what to do with the powers given you. However, before you do decide, you must know this: the Denebian Empire has begun its attack."

"What do you mean?" asked Matt, his green eyes widening as possibilities began running through his mind.

"Ground forces have already appeared on the streets of Langstrum Alps, and I also detect a focus of evil energy in the Hamilton River. And it is getting stronger."

"A monster," Rachel uttered, "Phaedra's placed the entire population of Langstrum Alps in immediate danger!"

"So that's their game," Matt groaned, "They want to take down our hometown... and us... before they branch out and conquer the planet."

"Phaedra's trying to force us to use up our powers," Craig commented.

"True," said Rachel, "but what choice do we have?" She paused for a moment, leaning her hand on the windowsill and staring down at the peaceful planet below. "We're the Spectrum Force, defenders of Earth. And that's exactly what I think we should do. I'm going down there, and I'm going to fight this monster. I'm going to keep fighting until my powers are gone. Then I'm going to give up my Spectrum Stone, and keep on fighting as a plain human being. Win or lose, I'm a fighter. I won't stand back and watch my planet go up in smoke."

Rachel then turned around, fixing each of her friends with a meaningful gaze. "Who's with me?"

"I am," Keith stated immediately, taking a stand beside the leader.

"Me too," Tamara added, joining the circle.

"You can count on me," said Craig.

"To the end," affirmed Jocelyn.

"Lead on, Ray," called Matt, taking his place beside the Orange Enforcer.

"It's unanimous," Chris observed, completing the ring of heroes. Then, they spread out into a row, with Keith and Chris on opposite ends. As one, the Spectrum Force held their bright rings heavenwards, creating concentric circles of energy flowing from their gemstones, down their arms, and whirling around each one's body.

"Spectrum Sync... Red!!" bellowed Keith.

"Spectrum Sync... Orange!!" cried Jocelyn.

"Spectrum Sync... Yellow!!" yelled Tamara.

"Spectrum Sync... Green!!" shouted Matthew.

"Spectrum Sync... Blue!!" roared Craig.

"Spectrum Sync... Purple!!" Rachel finished.

Chris watched as his six allies transformed into the Spectrum Force, ready for what may be their final battle. After bearing witness to the awe-inspiring display of energy for a few moments, a small grin crossed his face as his hazel eyes shuttered closed. His face grimaced in concentration, as his clothing took on a surreal glow, and rippled like pearly water. The liquid energy poured over his entire body from head to toe, and slowly solidified into a form-fitting uniform, matching that of the Enforcers in style, but with white as his signature color. Black leggings and sleeves, white bodysuit, gloves, and boots wrapped his body, along with a white facemask that reached his crown, allowing chestnut locks to spill over and frame his face. While the Spectrum Enforcers' uniforms sported a white V symbol on their chests, Chris' was gold to match his golden belt. Finally, gleaming ivory wings sprouted from his back, stretching to their full span.

While Rachel and Spectra were aware of Chris' new bodysuit, which can morph to suit his needs, the others were shocked at such a display of power.

"What... happened?" Jocelyn asked, her eyebrow arched beneath her visor.

"Spectra gave me a morphing costume," Chris answered, smoothing out his sleeves, "It functions as a body armor, so I can help you guys out."

"Interesting design," Tamara noted, tapping her chin lightly.

"I figure with this uniform, everyone will identify me as part of the Spectrum Force," Chris pointed out, "The people will know right off whose side I'm on."

"Okay," said Rachel, her authoritative voice severing that conversation in a heartbeat, "The Spectrum Force will fight that monster Acheron and Phaedra sent to play with us. Chris, you'd better patrol the streets, and try to protect the people from the Denebian foot-soldiers. Let's hope people have the sense to stay indoors."

"Gotcha," Chris said, one beat of his massive wings lifting his body from the gold-tiled floor, "I'll call you if I need help."

"Same here," Rachel said, waving as he flew out the window. She watched his departure for a few moments, worry creasing her brow as his energy signature faded with distance. Then, once he was out of visual range, she levitated off the ground, a cloak of purple energy washing over her slim form like an ocean wave breaking on a protruding rock. In response, the five other Enforcers rose into the air, and as a group they hovered towards the window.

"Please, keep an eye on him," Rachel said to Spectra, who was still seated on her golden throne.

"I shall watch over you all," Spectra affirmed, a reassuring smile breaking the stoic expression on her snowy face. All the Enforcers smiled a little in reaction to the rare display of affection from their Denebian advisor.

"To the river!" Rachel declared, her voice ringing like a battle cry to the heavens.

Chapter Nine

^...and to top off an afternoon of unnatural weather and an inexplicable solar eclipse, an army of unidentified creatures has been seen marching through the Langstrum Alps. City Hall has declared a State of Emergency for Langstrum Alps, as well as all surrounding suburbs. Please remain in your homes, or get to your homes or some other safe place as quickly as possible. Stay out of the streets, for these unidentified armies appear to be hostile. The National Guard has been sent--^

Stephen Maloy grumbled something unintelligible as he turned off the television in his hotel room. He rose to his feet and crossed his arms, holding his head at a defiant angle as cold sapphire eyes stared holes into the blank television screen. Just a few feet away, his wife Monica was seated on the couch, a large comforter wrapped around her body as she trembled from both fear as well as cold. Her bright green gaze darted from the smoky black screen, to her pacing husband, to the powdery snow that fell passed their window.

There were several minutes of stony, shivering silence between the pair, who had been married for twenty-six years. How else should a typical family react when they find themselves trapped in an unfamiliar city during an alien invasion?

Stephen marched across the room, and picked up the telephone for the tenth time that afternoon. After waiting for a while, he cursed angrily and smashed the receiver back onto the unit.

"Nothing?" Monica asked in a hoarse voice, looking up at her husband. His silence answered for him.

"I've had enough of his nonsense," Stephen finally declared, walking briskly into the conjoining bedroom. He stepped inside, glancing momentarily at Connie before continuing towards his suitcase. The youngest Maloy played with a tendril of her chin-length flaxen hair as her attention passed from her textbook to her father.

"How are you holding up, Constance?" Stephen asked, hefting his suitcase onto the corner of the bed and rummaging through. Connie slipped a bookmark into her text and sat up on the bed, watching her father inquisitively.

"I'm fine," she answered, "Just trying to keep from going nuts with worry by studying for my micro exam." Her pink-glossed lips curled into a pout as she tossed the book onto the floor. "Yeah, microbiology is very

distracting when the Earth is being invaded by aliens!"

"There's no such thing as aliens, Connie," Stephen said sternly, lifting a jacket from the suitcase and lying it onto the bed. Connie rolled her eyes, and rose to her feet.

"No such thing as aliens?" she repeated in amazement, "Then what the hell do you call those... things

marching through town as if it were the Macy's Parade?"

Stephen pulled out a pair of sneakers from another bag, and fixed his daughter with a penetrating gaze. Despite herself, she flinched slightly.

"Don't speak to me in that-" he started to scold her, before stopping himself short. He then sighed deeply, and sat down on the nearby chair and removed his slippers. "Never mind," he said, his voice unusually gentle, "It's not worth arguing about."

Connie blinked in amazement as she watched her father put on his sneakers. This was the first time in recent memory that Stephen backed away from an argument, whether it was petty or otherwise. Stephen Maloy was legendary in Austin for his short fuse, and no one was safe from it. Especially not his children.

"Uh... Dad," Connie said quietly, as Stephen rose to his feet and reached for the jacket, "what are you doing?"

"I'm going out," he answered simply, buttoning his jacket.

Connie yelped slightly in surprise, and rushed to follow as her father went towards the door. She threw herself against the exit, prohibiting him from leaving.

"Are you NUTS?!" she shrieked, "There are aliens out there, running rampant!"

"And my son

is out there somewhere," Stephen responded as calmly as he could manage, "The phones aren't working, and I can't contact Keith. I want to make sure he's okay."

"Stephen, you're not making sense," Monica said quietly from the couch, "Keith is probably safe and sound with his friends. What do you plan on doing?"

"I'm going to the High Rise," he said, walking back to the den and hugging his wife to calm her, "It's not even half a mile away. I just want to make sure he's okay."

Stephen then returned to the door, where his daughter still stood. "I'll be right back," he assured Connie, kissing her forehead. He then gently pulled her away from the door, without her offering much resistance. Finally, he stepped out the door. "Don't leave this room," he ordered briskly, before closing the door behind him. Stephen then hurried through the empty hallways, and down to the reception desk.

"Excuse me," he said, "can you tell me where the High Rise is?"

The woman behind the desk blinked. "You're not going out in that mess, are you?"

Stephen nodded. "I need to find my son. Please, can you tell me how to get there?"

The receptionist nodded, and took a deep breath. "Once you reach the street, turn left, and keep going straight. The High Rise is the tallest building on the UCLA campus. You'll see it."

Stephen smiled, and ran to the door. His eyes widened when he saw that over a foot of snow had already fallen. He stepped outside when he didn't see anyone... human or otherwise... nearby. He shivered as the freezing winds wove through his hair, and penetrated his clothing.

"Damn, it's cold!" he remarked, shoving his hands in his jacket pocket. He began trudging through the deep snow, heading in the direction the receptionist guided him. After a few minutes of slowly making headway, he reached the street. To his surprise, he saw a car parked on the street, almost entirely covered with snow. It was a wine colored minivan.

"No," he whispered, running as quickly as he could to the van. He tried the handle, and realized it was unlocked. He opened the door, and glanced around. He frowned when he saw the familiar set of purple dice dangling from the mirror.

"This is Rachel's car," Stephen recalled, "that Keith and Tamara were in when they left. They were supposed to go to the museum, and pick up their friend. They didn't get very far."

Stephen climbed further into the car, searching for any sign of Keith or Tamara. There was nothing to be found.

"What the hell happened to them?!" he shouted to himself, sitting in the driver's seat. He wiped his face with his cold hands, and thought about his next course of action.

Why wouldn't they have driven to the High Rise? he pondered, They just up and left, and they were in too much of a hurry to even lock the car. What could have made them abandon the car?

Stephen stepped out of the car, and a passing shadow caught his attention. He whirled around, but all he saw was the thick whiteness of the blizzard. However, he did see footprints nearby... and they certainly weren't his.

At a loss of options, Stephen jumped back into the car, and locked the door. He jumped in surprise when a loud banging sound shook the entire automobile. Something wiped the snow accumulated on the windshield, and Stephen found himself staring at a pair of blood red eyes. A cold smile crossed the creature's ash-colored face, sending chills up Stephen's spine.

The creature then proceeded to speak, although the words were utter nonsense to Stephen.

"My Princess," the alien uttered in his native tongue, "there is a human inside this vehicle."

"Well," was the equally-unintelligible response, "get him out then, Exen."

Chapter Ten

The Spectrum Force flew over the quiet streets of Langstrum Alps in V formation, with Rachel and Keith in the lead. She glanced beside her, and saw Keith's pensive expression.

"You okay?" she asked gently. He glanced at her, a frown creasing his face.

"How could I be okay when the entire $@#*ing planet's going to die?!" he yelled furiously. Rachel remained silent, regarding her friend for a moment. She had known Keith Maloy longer than any other member of the Force, and she knew he only displayed such anger when he was truly and deeply afraid.

"Don't you give up on me, Red Enforcer," Rachel said in a dead serious tone, "We're going to fight until we can't anymore. I'm counting on you, Keith. Keep your head on."

Keith nodded. "I'm... I'm sorry, Ray," he whispered, his eyes catching the hotel his family was staying at as they passed over the city, "There's just a lot at stake here. Do you think Chris can really protect the whole city?"

Rachel sighed. "He's going to have to. LA's been overrun by footsoldiers, and I doubt the police can stop them. Or even the National Guard."

"Guys!" Craig called, breaking formation and staring directly below him, "There it is! The Hamilton River!"

"I don't see anything," Jocelyn commented, gazing intently at the long river that stretched across the ground below her, "The river is several miles long. How do we know where this monster is supposed to be?"

"We'll split up," said Rachel, "Keith, Matt, and Tammy, and Craig, Jocelyn, and me."

"We'd cover more ground if we go alone," Keith said.

"I'm not risking it," Rachel responded, turning to Keith, "Your team goes west along the river, my team goes east. Contact us as soon as you engage the monster. We have to beat it as quickly as possible to conserve power. We don't have much time left."

Keith nodded, and gestured to Tamara and Matt. The three Enforcers flew along the river, and Rachel's group went in the opposite direction.

"Let's get lower," Rachel said, "and keep your eyes open! We have no idea what we're looking for!"

The Purple, Blue, and Orange Enforcers streaked along the river, about three yards above the water's surface. They continued to fly relatively slowly, to get a proper look at the water. However, for over five minutes they didn't find anything suspicious.

"This is ridiculous!" Craig muttered, pulling ahead of the others, "Maybe Spectra was wrong. Maybe the focus of energy isn't a monster. Or maybe it's somewhere else."

"When has Spectra ever been wrong?" Jocelyn pointed out, "It's a monster, and it's here. Somewhere."

"Well, hopefully Keith and the other's are having better--" Craig began to say, when suddenly an enormous black tentacle broke through the water, stretching as tall as a tree in the blink of an eye. Craig yelped in surprise, and just managed to turn in time to avoid colliding with the tentacle. Rachel and Jocelyn, who were a distance behind, skidded to a halt.

"You wanted a monster, and you got it," Jocelyn commented.

Suddenly, the tentacle plummeted back towards the water horizontally. All three Enforcers moved quickly, and tried to injure the monster with concentrated beams of colored light. But the light didn't seem to have any effect, and the tentacle reached up again, and swung at the team.

"Back!" Rachel ordered, flying backwards from the tentacle, "Get out of its reach!"

As Rachel continued to back off, another tentacle broke the water behind her, and wrapped around her body before she could retaliate.

"GUYS!!" Rachel shrieked as the tentacle plunged into the water, taking the Purple Enforcer with it. Jocelyn and Craig looked at each other in petrified amazement.

"Contact Keith," Jocelyn said, "I'm going after Rachel!"

"What?!" Craig muttered, "Are you seri--"

But before Craig could finish his sentence, Jocelyn dove into the freezing water of the Hamilton River. Craig sighed, and flew upwards, until he felt he was safely away from the monster to concentrate on a telepathic message to the other Enforcers.

Chapter Eleven

Stephen Maloy had experienced much during his fifty plus years of life. He had traveled the entire world, and seen many of the sights. He was the founder and CEO of a highly successful company, and he managed to care for his family much better than his own father had done for his. He had three wonderful children, all of whom he was very proud. He had a lovely, caring wife, who always understood him when even he didn't understand himself. He had lived a charmed life. And now, he couldn't help but wonder if he'd run out of luck.

It didn't take long before the strange creatures broke through the glass windshield of the minivan, and pulled him out. One creature hefted Stephen out of the driver's seat as if it were lifting a bag of potatoes, and tossed him into the snow, which had already accumulated to about four feet. Stephen tried to lift his body, but the creature placed its armored foot on his back, keeping him face down in the snow.

"Let him up," a decidely female voice commanded in flawless English. Stephen felt the foot move off his back, and he rose to his knees. The creature that had held him down was one of about a dozen troops, with ash-colored skin, blood red eyes, and fierce expressions. They all wore matching black uniforms, with armored boots, gloves, and shoulder armor. They also had black helmets, which covered most of their faces. But the red eyes glowed brightly and menacingly.

Stephen swiveled his head, and saw the one who had spoken. She was easily distinguishable as the leader, and by the gold tiara adorning her forest green hair, Stephen determined her to be royalty. Unlike her soldiers, the woman wore no armor. Instead, she wore a black leotard, and gold colored boots and belt. Her green ponytail whipped violently in the harsh winds of the blizzard, but she didn't seem to feel the cold, despite her minimal dress. Stephen's eyes then fixed upon her long bow, which she was leaning on like a walking stick.

"Hello, Human," the woman said, "You look like you've had a difficult day."

"You could say that," Stephen responded, "Snow in LA is rather uncommon, especially for springtime. And yes, it's been awhile since I've seen armies of aliens roaming the streets."

Celea smiled at his sarcasm. She was rather surprised to see him display no visible fear of his present situation. But she heard his heart quicken dramatically with her superior senses. He was terrified, although he refused to show it. She would enjoy torturing him.

"You know," she remarked, walking atop the accumulated snow as if she were weightless, "you're the first civilian I've seen since my soldiers and I invaded. Are you all hiding?"

"We're not hiding," Stephen replied, "There's just a great baseball game on, and we Americans have our priorities."

"Enough insolence," Celea commented, holding her bow with both hands, "I tire very easily with you humans."

"Perhaps you're not getting enough vitamins," Stephen remarked. Celea frowned, and glanced at the nearest soldier. The soldier nodded, and sharply kicked Stephen in the stomach. Stephen yelped, and fell back into the mounting snow sinking several inches due to the force of the attack. The Denebian soldier then picked up the man by his hair, forcing him to look at Celea.

"Perhaps you don't know how serious your situation is, Human," Celea commented, "Your life is at stake here. Tell me one reason why I should spare you."

"Well, I'm good with animals, and I'm legendary at karioke bars across Texas."

Celea's frown deepened, and she placed her hands on her hips. "Search him," she ordered, "He must have some identification on him. Let's see if he's important."

The soldier nodded, and frisked Stephen. He located a wallet, and held it out. Another soldier took the wallet, and handed it to Celea, bowing humbly before her. Celea waved him away, and opened the wallet.

"Stephen Maloy III," she read from his driver's license, "born 8-30-46. From Austin Texas. You're a long way from home, Human."

Celea cracked a small grin as she flipped through the contents of the wallet. She found numerous credit cards, club memberships, and cash-- none of which impressed her. Then, she found a series of photographs. There was one of a woman, most likely Stephen's wife. Also, there were three younger humans, a girl and two boys. One photograph caught Celea's eye.

"Now this

is interesting," she commented, pulling the photograph out of its jacket and looking on the back. Her crimson eyes widened slightly as they read "Keith's Senior Photo". Celea bared her sharp teeth in frightening smile, and her gaze rose from the photograph and fixed on the human before her.

"So, Mister Stephen Maloy III, you are related to this young man," Celea stated, showing Stephen the photograph.

Stephen looked at Celea, bewildered. "What of it?"

Celea smiled again, and tore the photograph in half. "Guilt my association," she remarked, "Your connection with the Red Enforcer has sealed your fate."

"My son... the Red what?" Stephen asked, "What the hell are you talking about?!"

Celea nodded at her troops, picking up her bow from the snow. All the soldiers stepped back, leaving the bewildered human being alone before Celea. Stephen's eyes widened when he saw her draw an onyx arrow from her quiver. He staggered to his feet, and stepped back as Celea pulled the drawstring back on her bow. She smiled as she took aim.

"My signature arrow," Celea explained, "I want Keith Maloy to know who exactly killed his father."

"NO!" Stephen cried as the shiny black arrow streaked through the cold winds. It plowed into Stephen's chest, and wedged itself there. Stephen choked out another cry, as red blood stained his shirt and jacket. The strength in his body vanishing, Stephen fell onto his back and sank into the mound of snow. Red blood stained the frigid powder beneath him, as Celea's wicked laugh filled the crisp air.

Part Three

Chapter Twelve

"God, Tracy!" the young camera man groaned, diving into a snowbank to dodge the bullet that whizzed near his head, "You're gonna get us killed!"

The reporter pulled her hat on tighter, hastily digging in the snow for her fallen microphone. "And what do you suggest, Kyle? That we go sit in our homes, and wait out the biggest story of the century? Our planet is being invaded

! This is one battle that must

be covered by the media."

Kyle mumbled something unintelligible while he dusted off the snow from his hand held camcorder. After taking a quick peek over the snowbank that served as their cover, he activated the recording.

"This is Tracy Preston, reporting from one of the several fronts that have developed around the city. Ever since the National Guard rolled their tanks onto the streets of Langstrum Alps, what was once a dangerous situation has now become an all-out war. A flurry of bullets continues to spray into the strange invading army, since the Guard fears any more potent weapons could do damage to the city, and thereby harm innocent civilians trapped in their homes. While the Guard is being cautious, it is clear that their opponents have no such concerns. These strange beings, armor covering the majority of their features, have responded to the firepower of the Guard with their own weaponry. Pulses of seemingly laser energy continue to sweep through the blizzard, pulverizing the Guard. Unfortunately, their hailstorm of bullets doesn't appear to have as significant an effect on their enemy."

As Tracy narrated the events, Kyle boldly aimed his camera over the snowbank, recording the firestorm nearby. Without warning, however, a fresh flurry of misguided bullets sliced in their direction.

Kyle released a yelp of surprise as one bullet embedded itself into his shoulder, causing him to drop his camera and collapse to the ground in shock.

"Kyle!" Tracy screamed, tossing the microphone and lifting her partner's head from the snow. Kyle gasped urgently, his warm breath releasing steam into the freezing air.

"I'm... okay," Kyle assured her, allowing her to lift him to a sitting position, "It just grazed me."

"No, it's in

you, Kyle," Tracy stated, hurriedly zipping up Kyle's heavy jacket to keep him warm, "We've got to get you inside, so I can take a better look at this."

"It's too dangerous," Kyle said, watching as Tracy hurriedly packed the camera and equipment into her backpack, "We'll blow our cover completely if we start parading around. This is a warzone!"

"We'll be fine," she assured him, wrapping his arm over her shoulder and pulling him along, "There're apartment buildings right behind us."

After a few steps, Tracy felt a powerful chill suddenly freeze her in her tracks. Instinct alerting her to the sound of footsteps behind her, she quickly whirled around.

She couldn't contain a scream from escaping her as one of the strange armored warriors folded his arms, grinning at her coldly. Tracy swallowed hard when she noticed the creature standing before her had fangs.

"W... what are you?" she asked, slowly backing away from the creature. Her grip inadvertently tightened around Kyle's waist.

"I could tell you," the creature said in a husky voice, "but I prefer my prey to be in the dark."

Tracy and Kyle stumbled backwards, falling into the snow as the creature closed in. They were completely frozen with fear, watching as bright red orbs began to glow from behind his visor. He pulled off his gloves, revealing charcoal gray fingers that began to glow with a faint black energy.

Just as his ashen hands reached out, the creature grunted in surprise and pain, and collapsed onto the stunned humans.

Tracy and Kyle both shrieked in panic, hurriedly pushing the body from them. Tracy's green eyes widened as she noted the smoking patch on his back, and the hole in his armor from which the smoke poured.

"I'm sorry about that," said a voice, "I could have hit him at a better angle."

Tracy and Kyle followed the sound of the voice, and looked above them. Hovering just a few feet away was a figure cloaked in black, white, and gold, with pearl wings extended several feet from his body, pushing against the air to keep him aloft. Dark brown hair hung around his face, the harsh winds flailing it around roughly.

The two reporters were utterly speechless as the stranger dropped to the snow, and offered his hands to them. Stunned but cooperative, they allowed him to lift them to their feet.

"What... what..." Kyle whispered, blinking repeatedly.

"Listen, you two," the man said, "you're in a seriously dangerous area. You must get inside immediately. Hopefully, the Denebians won't expand their invasion to intrude on people's homes. At this point, they're trying to get the streets under their control."

"So that's

what they're called," Tracy said, casually pulling off her backpack, "And who are you?"

The warrior seemed surprised by the question. "I'm... uh..."

"You're one of the Spectrum Force, aren't you?" Kyle inquired, "I recognize the uniform. The wings are a bit different, though."

"Well, I'm not quite an Enforcer," he answered, "I'm more of an ally, trying to patrol the streets during this invasion."

"So where is the Force now?" Tracy asked, quickly toying with something in her bag, "I haven't seen a single one of them during this entire invasion."

"They're handling another phase of the invasion. A monster, in fact," he answered, beating his wings once again. The force of the wings pushed him into the air immediately. "Listen, I've gotta help the Guard. Those bullets won't do anything against Denebian shielding. Just get yourselves inside, okay?"

"You got it," Kyle said, waving. Tracy smiled, and watched him turn to leave. Quicker than a reflex, she pulled out the camcorder, and recorded the winged hero's departure.

"That took you long enough," Kyle sighed, "You only got his back!"

"Well, it would have been rude and ungrateful to shove a camera into his face while he was trying to save us," Tracy pointed out, zooming in on the fight scene. She watched in amazement as the hero retracted his wings, and then spread them, creating a wide beam of white energy that plowed into the alien forces like a tidal wave. "This is terrific footage. But I have to get closer..."

"You do

have a death wish, don't you?" Kyle moaned, "Tracy, this Denebian creep that attacked us is only stunned. He'll be waking up soon."

Tracy bit her lip, lowering her camera. With a sigh, she turned it off, and once again picked up her bookbag. "Let's get inside," she decided, "Besides, we have enough info to give a major report once this is all over, including shots of this new winged Enforcer."

"When this is all over?" Kyle huffed, "Let's hope

this doesn't all end with the Denebians carting us through the streets like animals."

"Ye of little faith," Tracy sighed, "That guy said the Force was taking care of it. When have they failed us?"

"When have they had to deal with a full-fledged invasion?" Kyle pointed out.

"They can handle it," Tracy said pointedly, "They can handle anything."

Chapter Thirteen

The Red, Yellow, and Green Enforcers continued flying along the Hamilton River, searching for some sign of abnormality. Other than the fact that the entire city of Langstrum Alps was covered in several feet of crisp white snow. That, and the fact that the Sun was blocked by a strange black cloud, that prevented all heat and light from reaching the Earth.

"We're almost out of LA!" Matt called, slowing to a halt, "I think we should go back."

"You're right," sighed Tamara, also slowing down, "Keith, let's catch up with Rachel and the others. Keith?"

But Keith Maloy, the second-in-command of the Spectrum Force, didn't hear his girlfriend's calls. Behind his blue visor, his ocean blue eyes were closed tightly in concentration. He was receiving a telepathic transmission.

"Tammy, Matt," Keith said, his eyes opening, "Craig, Rachel, and Jocelyn are in trouble. They've encountered the monster."

"Then let's move!" Matt said, immediately vanishing in a streak of green light.

"Wait!" Keith shouted, "You'll use up all your reserved power!"

But the Green Enforcer was out of earshot, streaking down the length of the Hamilton River in the form of a beam of light.

"C'mon," Keith said to Tamara, "we'd better follow. But don't

turn into a beam of light. It's the most energy-consuming ability we have! Let's just hope the others can wait."

Chapter Fourteen

The water was inky black, and ice cold. The reason why was simple- there was no sun to warm the water, or illuminate the mysterious world beneath the surface. Jocelyn was silently grateful for the Spectrum Shield that protected her body like a second skin. It clung to her form, and moved with her, allowing the skilled diver to maneuver through the water with relative ease. It's warm energy protected her body from hypothermia, and it contained a reasonable amount of air, allowing her to breathe as she searched through the blackness. Finally, it exuded a bright orange light, giving her some light to search with. Of course, it also made her easily noticeable to the creature she searched for.

A dim flash of purple light caught the Orange Enforcer's attention, and she struggled to follow its source. She managed to push herself through the blackness with her powers, catapulting her deeper into the water. She finally found her teammate, still entangled in the thick tentacle that had dragged her under the water a few minutes ago. She seemed unconscious, yet her Spectrum Shield, which protected her from the cold and provided her with a cushion of breathable air, continued to glow faintly. Jocelyn followed the tentacle around her friend with her eyes, and saw what it was connected to. She just barely managed to keep herself from screaming.

The creature was as black as pitch, with seven long tentacles. One tentacle kept the Purple Enforcer hostage, while two others reached up through the water to the surface, obviously fighting the remaining Spectrum Enforcers topside. The remaining four tentacles were waiting, most likely to surprise the Enforcers and capture them in the same manner they caught their leader. All seven tentacles connected to a round surface, lying flat at the bottom of the freezing river. On the face of the disk sat a large eye, and a wide mouth. Jocelyn shuddered when she saw the sharp fangs- each as large as a human being-- that surrounded the edge of the open mouth.

Once Jocelyn recovered from her initial shock, she pushed herself towards her friend. She remained as silent as possible, hoping that the large creature was too busy flailing its tentacles at the rest of the Force to notice the intruder. The tentacle holding Rachel remained still, allowing Jocelyn to reach it.

*Ray?*

Jocelyn asked telepathically, *Ray, do you hear me?*

To Jocelyn's alarm, Rachel didn't respond. Jocelyn swam closer, and looked at the tentacle. It squeezed Rachel extremely tightly, nearly smothering her to death. In fact, the only thing preventing that was the faint energy shield that protected Rachel. Unfortunately, it was slowly fading out.

Gotta do something...

her mind echoed. Jocelyn immediately reached her fists out, creating a continuous stream of bright orange light which plowed into the tentacle fiercely. The tentacle began swaying, causing the current to wash the Orange Enforcer away as if she were a fly. Jocelyn struggled against the force, but she couldn't even figure out which way was up as the current dragged her deeper into the river. Finally, Jocelyn came to a stop, and looked back at the tentacle. It had stopped stirring, but it didn't loosen its hold on Rachel.

Well, that didn't work too well,

Jocelyn reflected grimly. But I have to get Rachel out, before her shield collapses completely! Think, Brainiac!!

Suddenly, Jocelyn felt her thoughts disperse as another voice appeared in her head.

*Jocie? Are you okay down there?*

*Matt! Yeah, I'm okay. I just can't get Rachel free from the monster's tentacle!*

*Get a grip, Kiddo. You'll think of something.*

A small smile appeared on Jocelyn's face. *Get a grip! That's brilliant, Matt!!*

*Huh?*

*Just keep your eyes peeled for more tentacles. Ray and I will be up there before you know it.*

Jocelyn swam back to the tentacle that squeezed her friend. She then touched the weakening purple shield, and concentrated. The shield began to take on an orange-purple tint.

Good. I managed to merge her shield with my own. Now, to get a grip, and loosen his.

Jocelyn extended the merged shield, so it encased both Rachel and herself. Since they were inside the same shield, Jocelyn managed to grab Rachel's shoulder. Then, she pushed out on the shield mentally, causing it to stretch. In the process, it forced the tentacle to expand its grip, so it was no longer crushing Rachel. There was at least a foot of space between Rachel and the orange-purple shield. Jocelyn smiled, and pulled Rachel out of the tentacle easily. Then, she constructed another orange shield inside the larger one, so it surrounded both young women. Finally, she collapsed the larger shield, and the tentacle released when the creature realized it was no longer holding something. Jocelyn then flew through the water, her friend in tow. In seconds, the two Enforcers broke through the surface of the water, and continued upwards.

"Jocelyn!" the Green Enforcer called, flying to his friend, "Is she okay?"

"She's had the wind knocked out of her," Jocelyn responded, "She should be coming around-"

"Wha--?" Rachel whispered, her eyes slowly opening beneath her blue visor, "What happened?"

"That

happened," Jocelyn said, pointing to the flailing tentacles that continued their offense against the Yellow, Red, and Blue Enforcers. Rachel looked, and frowned.

"Thanks for the save, Joce," she said, allowing her own powers to hold her in the air. Jocelyn released her friend, and smiled.

"No problem."

"Correction," Matt said, looking back at the fight, "Big problem!"

The Orange and Purple Enforcers looked down, and saw all seven tentacles standing erect. Tamara, Craig, and Keith flew upwards, and rejoined the rest of the Force at a reasonably safe distance.

"What's going on?" Tamara asked.

"Oh boy," Jocelyn whispered, watching as the tentacles began pushing through the water, forming a circle, "Guys, do you remember 'The Odyssey'?"

"Vaguely," Craig said, rubbing his chin, "Why? What does that story have to do with anything?"

"Uh oh," Keith muttered with understanding, "Remember that chapter with Scylla and Kharybdis?"

"The monster in the cliffs, and the whirlpool..." Tamara whispered, her eyes wide. All the Enforcers looked downwards, and saw the seven tentacles spinning powerfully, creating a whirlpool in the center of the river. At the bottom of the whirlpool, which reached all the way to the bottom of the river, the disk-like body of Shiva was visible. And the mouth was open wide.

"What is that?!" Keith yelled.

"That's the monster we've been fighting," Jocelyn said, "I wonder what its up to..."

Jocelyn got her answer when a sphere of pulsing white energy flew from the mouth of the creature, heading directly towards the team of assembled heroes hovering above it.

Chapter Fifteen

Meanwhile, the blazing white figure of Chris Greyson flew across Langstrum Alps. The strong winds that accompanied the blizzard made it increasingly difficult to fly, but he discovered that if he merely glided along the current, he would suffer from less wing fatigue. So far, his afternoon had been eventful. Besides saving the two reporters, he had also rescued several other citizens who were trapped due to nearby firefights. He also helped the National Guard in several spots, in order to help them fend back the invasion army and minimize casualties. Still, all his efforts didn't mean that much. After all, if the Spectrum Force didn't come up with a plan, the entire planet would be destroyed in a matter of days.

"Hey," he whispered to himself, flying low near a hotel, "isn't that Rachel's minivan?"

Out of sheer curiosity, Chris lowered to the ground to investigate. Sure enough, the purple dice in the windshield gave testimony to its owner. But what caught the young mutant's eye wasn't the dice. Rather, it was the shattered windshield.

"Not a good sign," he concluded, turning full circle. All he saw was pure white snow, covering everything surrounding him. There was at least three feet of accumulation by this time. However, there was a patch of red-tainted snow not far from the van. A sudden chill crept up Chris' spine as he realized what it was.

"Blood," he whispered, kneeling on the snow. He dug through the snow nearby, and found the body of a middle-aged man, nearly completely buried in a snowbank. Chris pulled the man free, and his stomach wretched when he saw the black arrow protruding from the man's chest.

"He doesn't have his wallet on him," Chris said, checking the man's pockets, "I wonder why he seems... familiar to me."

Chris then checked for a pulse at the base of the man's jaw. Fortunately, there was one, albeit faint.

"I've got to get him to a hospital," Chris decided, looking once again at the arrow. He was then struck by an idea. "I wonder if the arrow has any memory energy stored in it. Maybe it can tell me what happened here."

Chris looked at his hands, and willed his gloves to vanish. Once they did, he grabbed the arrow with both hands. At first, he gasped at the cold of the black marble. But then, images flowed through the young telepath's mind.

"So, Mister Stephen Maloy III, you are related to this young man," Celea stated, showing Stephen the photograph.

Stephen looked at Celea, bewildered. "What of it?"

Celea smiled again, and tore the photograph in half. "Guilt my association," she remarked, "Your connection with the Red Enforcer has sealed your fate, old man."

"My son, the Red who?" Stephen asked, "What the hell are you talking about?!"

Celea nodded at her troops, picking up her bow from the snow. All the soldiers stepped back, leaving the bewildered human being alone before Celea. Stephen's eyes widened when he saw her draw an onyx arrow from her quiver. He staggered to his feet, and stepped back as Celea pulled the drawstring back on her bow. She smiled as she took aim.

"My signature arrow," Celea explained, "I want Keith Maloy to know who exactly killed his father."

"NO!" Stephen cried as the shiny black arrow streaked through the cold winds. It plowed into Stephen's chest, and wedged itself there. Stephen choaked out another cry, as red blood stained his shirt and jacket. The strength in his body vanishing, Stephen fell onto his back. Red blood stained the fresh white snow beneath him.

"Majesty," a soldier said, approaching the unconscious man and touching his neck, "he is still alive."

Celea shrugged. "Perhaps, but not for long. The Spectrum Force is fighting Shiva, and there is no way they can get to him in time to save his life. Besides, I don't want his death to be so easy. I want him to suffer. The more he suffers, the more the Red Enforcer will suffer. Let us go."

The mental image fading like a dream at dawn, Chris pulled his shaking hands away from the arrow. He pressed his lips together firmly, and stared at the hapless victim for a moment.

"This... this is Keith's father," he choked, "Celea wanted him to suffer before he died. I guess the snow that buried him slowed his bleeding, allowing him to survive longer than expected. But he can't hold out for much longer."

Chris gently lifted the wounded man, and leapt into the sky, flying towards the LA General Hospital as quickly as his wings of psionic energy could carry him.

Chapter Sixteen

"Scatter!" Rachel shouted, diving away from the powerful sphere of light flying in her direction. The five other Enforcers did the same, just avoiding the pulsing energy sphere. It streaked past them all, and crashed into a bridge crossing the river. It reduced the construction to splinters and pebbles, leaving the small remainder of it covered in a foot-thick layer of ice.

"That was close," Craig muttered.

"Where did that come from?" Matt asked.

"Stay on your guard," Jocelyn said, "It may throw another one!"

However, the tentacles slowed their circular motion, and dove back into the water. The whirlpool collapsed, and the river appeared calm again. But only for a moment. Two more tentacles broke the surface, and began flailing about.

"Here we go again," Craig sighed, thrusting his fists at the tentacles. He fired a wide beam of blue energy, which once again had no effect. He then flew out of the tentacle's way, and continued his attack. The Yellow, Purple, Orange, and Green Enforcers followed suit, but the Red Enforcer hung back.

"Our light beams aren't working," he muttered, "Maybe we'll have better luck with the Elemental Armory?"

To test his theory, Keith summoned his Flame Daggers, and dove down into the fray. However, instead of firing light beams at the tentacle, a river of flame spewed from the razor tips of the weapons. The fire struck the tentacle, and the tentacle dove beneath the water's surface urgently.

"Bingo!" Keith declared proudly, pumping his fist, "Guys, try your weapons!"

At the silent command of the Force, the Lightning Saber, Wood Boomerang, Ice Bow, Wind Nunchucks, and Earth Lance appeared. The team then redoubled their efforts, converging their elemental energy onto the second tentacle. That one too dove into the water, obviously injured.

"This isn't over yet," Rachel said, "That thing is still down at the bottom of the river."

"How do we destroy it?" Matt asked.

"Well, we definitely use the Spectrum Storm," Jocelyn commented, "The creature doesn't seem to have a problem with our light attacks, but the elemental attacks hurt it."

"Too bad we can't use the Storm below the water," Craig said, "but we need air to serve as the medium. Water would put out the fire before the energy even reached the monster."

"Then we wait for it to create that whirlpool again," Keith said, "We'll aim the Storm for its mouth!"

"Perfect," agreed Tamara, "but how do we get the monster to fire that energy sphere again?"

"We'll have to let the monster build up its energy," Rachel said, "But we'll get our cue to use our Spectrum Storm when the seven tentacles start revolving around the center point."

Just then, two more tentacles broke through the surface, and began flailing about.

"Weapons away!" Rachel ordered, "Just use light attacks, until its vulnerable again."

The Spectrum Force obeyed, and used their usual light attacks to fend off the tentacles as they had before. Suddenly, however, during the heat of the battle, a wave of green light erupted around Matthew, reverting him out of costume.

"AH!!" he screamed, plummeting towards the freezing water below. Jocelyn, the closest Enforcer, managed to catch him before he struck the river.

"What happened?" she asked, lifting away from the surface and watching her friend worriedly.

"I... I guess I used up a lot of energy before," he said, "My Spectrum Stone's running low."

"Can you Sync again?"

"Put me down and I'll try," he answered. Jocelyn nodded, and flew to the edge of the river, placing him down on his feet and landing beside him.

"Spectrum Sync... Green!" he cried, holding his ring to the sky. The stone flashed with green light, but nothing else happened.

"You've got to concentrate harder!" Jocelyn said, "Without the Green Enforcer, we can't create the Spectrum Storm and destroy that monster! What did you do to use up all your energy anyway?"

"Well... I did shift into a beam of light," Matt said sheepishly. Jocelyn frowned.

"That explains it," Jocelyn sighed. She glanced towards the river, and saw all seven tentacles sprout from the river. "Try again! And hurry!"

Matt nodded, a determined frown on his face. He raised his ring to the sky again, and squeezed his eyes shut. "SPECTRUM SYNC... GREEN!!!" he screamed.

Matt's arm began to shake as the green gemstone on his silver ring began to glow. At first, it flashed once, but then, it remained steady, glowing brightly. Jocelyn stepped back, and watched as Matthew transformed into the Green Enforcer. He then collapsed to his knees, panting heavily.

"You did it!" Jocelyn cried, hugging her friend tightly. She then pulled away from him in surprise. "My God, your heart's pounding like a drum!"

"I... I can't maintain the transformation for... much longer," he whispered, "The strain's... incredible."

"Can you summon your Nunchucks?" Jocelyn inquired, glancing again at the river. By now, the remainder of the Spectrum Force hovered above the monster, their weapons at the ready. The tentacles had begun revolving, starting to create the whirlpool.

Matt held out his hand, and the Wind Nunchucks appeared. Jocelyn helped him to his feet, and gazed at him intently. "Can you fly?"

"Not for long," he said, slowly rising off the ground. Jocelyn followed, and the six Enforcers stood in a row.

"Matt," said Tamara gently, "are you okay?"

"Fine," he wheezed, "let's get this over with."

"Spectrum Storm!!" the Spectrum Force cried out in unison.

The entire team held their weapons to the sky, and encased them in bubbles of colored light. Once the bubbles became opaque, the six heroes threw the bubbles into the air simultaneously. The six bubbles joined in sky, forming a white sphere crackling with the power of the elements. The sphere sailed into Shiva's open maw, and the creature's eye widened in surprise. The seven tentacles stopped moving, and plummeted into the water. For a few seconds, the water was calm, but then a column of bright energy blasted through the water, throwing the freezing river water in all directions. Then, the six weapons returned to the Spectrum Force, and all was quiet.

"Let's get back to Cloud Castle," Jocelyn said, unconsciously grabbing Matthew's arm in case he should collapse again.

"Yeah," agreed Tamara, gazing up at the black sky, "we're running out of time!"

Chapter Seventeen

"Oh, Lord," Monica Maloy whispered, shaking her head in defiance as she paced across the room on the verge of panic, "This can't be happening. It can't. Things like this don't happen in real life. They just don't

!"

Connie watched mutely from her seat on the couch as her mother continued her nervous pacing. The darkness had become almost complete blackness, as the electricity had expired not long after her father's departure. The armies outside must have hit the power lines.

The inky blackness of the outdoors, coupled with the darkness within, was petrifying for Connie. She was too scared and worried to even move from the couch. Instead, she sat there, the room dimly lit by aromatherapy candles Monica had intended to give her son as a birthday gift. The candles flickered with the slightest breeze, and any alteration in the lighting cast imposing shadows on the walls.

While Monica vented her terror through nervous action, Connie kept it within, a blank look of emptiness shining in her large blue eyes.

"Where's Stephen?" Monica asked, pausing in front of the large window. She leaned her forehead against the glass plane, as if a closer look would somehow open up the thick blackness for her inspection. "He left hours ago!"

She let her head rest against the window, sniffling quietly as she folded her arms. "Wh... what would I do if something happened to him?"

Connie sighed deeply, calming herself enough to rise to her feet. She carried the comforter with her, and gently draped part of it over her mother's shoulders. "Don't think like that," Connie scolded her mother gently, "He's probably still at the High Rise with Keith. I mean, it'd be too dangerous for him to come back now, especially now that it's pitch black outside. And the phones don't work, so how can he contact us? I'm sure he's waiting out the storm, and he'll come back when things cool down."

Just then, there was a knock at the door. Both women jumped slightly in surprise, and hurried to the door, anxious to see Stephen again.

Both were greeted to a shock as they opened the door, and saw a slender but fit man dressed in black, white, and gold spandex.

"Hi," he said, clasping his hands in front of him, "Are you the Maloy family?"

Connie swallowed, and pulled her mother away from the door to make room for the visitor to enter. "Yes," she whispered, "and who... or what... are you?"

"I'm one of the Spectrum Force," he answered, entering the room and closing the door behind him.

"The what?" Monica asked, befuddled.

Connie's eyes narrowed in thought. "I remember my brother mentioning the Spectrum Force before," she revealed, "I just assumed it was some kind of urban legend or something. I mean please... color-coded superhuman warriors?"

Chris shrugged slightly. "Well, seeing is believing, I guess."

Monica then grabbed Connie's arm in sudden panic. "Why are you here?" she demanded in fear, "Is it about Keith or Stephen?"

Chris bowed his head slightly. "Y...yes. Yes it is."

Monica's grip tightened on her daughter, and she held her breath expectantly.

"Stephen Maloy was attacked by Denebian soldiers... the invading aliens... right outside the hotel," he reported quietly, "I found him about twenty minutes ago in the snow."

"Oh... no..." Monica whispered, her grip on Connie fading as she slid to the floor heavily.

Connie took ragged breaths, her wide blue gaze switching back and forth from her mother to the costumed hero. "Is he...?"

"He was alive," Chris answered quickly, "He is

alive. I immediately flew him to the hospital, and made sure he was taken care of. Then I came back to the hotel. I figured that would be the best place to look for any family members, since this is where I found him. The receptionist was kind enough to give me your room number."

"He'll be all right, then?" Connie asked, daring to hope for the best.

"I don't know," Chris admitted, "I came to bring you to the hospital."

"Yes," Monica said, grabbing her purse from the couch, "Let's go."

"But... how are we going to get all the way to the hospital?" Connie inquired.

"I'll take you," Chris answered, stepping towards the window. He pulled the frame open, and then opened the screen, allowing the freezing air to whirl into the room. The strong winds immediately blew out the fragile candle flames, immersing the room in darkness.

The thick blackness was crushed when a brilliant white light pulsed from Chris, in the shape of two powerful wings, stretching from his back and towards the high ceiling.

"Ohmigod!" Connie shrieked in shock, shielding her eyes from the blinding light, "What are you... some kind of angel?"

"Nope," he answered, wrapping one arm around Connie's waist, "Just another one of the good guys."

He then pulled Monica towards him, and stepped towards the window. "Now hold on tight, and brace yourselves. My energy shield will protect you, but it's still pretty cold out there."

Both women held their breath in alarm as the three leapt out of the window, the intense white light generated by the hero lighting their path.

Chapter Eighteen

The six members of the Spectrum Force stood at the base of Spectra's throne in silence. Tamara was holding onto Keith's hand fiercely, as if trying to squeeze the anxiety from her body. Matt was leaning slightly on Jocelyn's shoulder, still weak from his strained transformation. Spectra regarded her team for a brief moment, and walked down the stairs that stood between them.

"Matt has already run out of power," Rachel said, disappointment evident in her expression, "so the rest of us can't have very much left. Our battle with Shiva has depleted us."

"Have you reached a decision?" Spectra inquired. Rachel nodded, sliding off the silver ring that decorated her right hand. She held the ring between her index finger and thumb, and gazed at the gemstone wistfully. She then held it out to her mentor.

"I'm just sorry I failed you," she whispered quietly, "You trusted me to lead the Spectrum Force, and protect Earth. I couldn't do it."

Spectra shook her head, and took the ring from the former Purple Enforcer. "You did not fail me. By forsaking the White Stone, you are ensuring the continued existence of the entire universe. You have managed to see beyond your home, to the bigger picture. I am proud of you."

Keith, who was standing beside Rachel, let go of Tamara's hand, and pulled his ring off as well. He sighed deeply, and handed it to Spectra.

"I'm... sorry I yelled at you," he said quietly, "It's not your fault this happened."

"I know you didn't blame me," Spectra said, accepting the red stone, "Frustration makes people say and do things they normally wouldn't."

Tamara's eyes were glassy as she slowly slid the silver band off her finger. "Thanks for letting me be a part of this," she said, "I never dreamed I could accomplish anything so important. We lost this time, but the fat lady hasn't sung yet."

Spectra smiled at Tamara's optimism. "I am proud for having served with you."

Spectra continued down the line, and a silent Craig thrust out his hand, with the blue ring sitting in his palm. "The fate of the universe is in your hands now."

"And I couldn't have done anything without your sacrifice," Spectra said, accepting the stone.

"Here," said Matt, holding out his green ring, "Take care of it, will you?"

"I shall," Spectra answered.

"So, this is the end of the Spectrum Force," Jocelyn said solemnly, adding her ring to the six in Spectra's palm, "After all the fighting, for it to end like this...?"

"The Nightfall will be captured once again, and the universe will continue," Spectra said, "It may be hard to fathom at this point, but we have gained the greater victory."

Spectra ascended the stairs, and sat down. She opened her palm, and the six stones separated from the silver bands, and began rotating in a circle of white light.

"Since they are so low on energy, it shall take about an hour for the stones to be rejoined into a whole. If you do manage to come up with any other ideas before that time, please bring them to my attention. Even without your stones, you can reach me telepathically, and I can return you here. All is not lost yet."

Suddenly, Chris flew through the window, passing through the force field that kept out the force of the elements. He landed on the golden tiles, and his mask automatically pulled down his neck, revealing a dark grimace on his ghostly visage.

"Are you okay?" Rachel asked urgently, walking towards him. He shook his head in the negative, and looked past Rachel to Keith.

"I... I'm afraid I have some bad news," Chris said, looking directly at the former Red Enforcer. The latter's eyebrow rose.

"What news can possibly be worse than the death of the entire human race?" he muttered bitterly.

"Your father was attacked by the Denebians," Chris answered, "He's in critical condition in the hospital."

Everyone gasped at the news. Keith's eyes widened, and Tamara grabbed Keith's arm immediately. Keith glanced down at her blankly, and then returned his gaze to Chris.

"What... happened?" Keith managed to whisper, his lip quivering.

"I found him out in the snow with an arrow in his chest," Chris answered, "He was alive, but just barely."

"Celea," Craig spat with indignation, clenching his fist.

"Spectra," Keith said, turning back to the throne, "can you send me to the hospital?"

Spectra nodded, and a black circular portal appeared. Keith jumped in, followed by the remainder of the Spectrum Force, and then Chris.

Chapter Nineteen

The hospital waiting room was quiet. There were only about ten people there, considering the inclement weather, coupled with the aliens roaming the streets. Six of those people were UCLA students, who were waiting for their friend and his family, who was visiting a patient in critical condition.

"Why would Celea attack Mr. Maloy?" Jocelyn wondered out loud, "What would she have to gain from it?"

"She wanted to make Keith suffer," Chris said quietly.

Rachel's dark brown eyes widened at the thought. "That would indicate she knew he was Keith's father."

Chris nodded. "I absorbed the memory energy in the arrow. Celea found a photo of Keith in Stephen's wallet, and she recognized him immediately. She also told Stephen that Keith's the Red Enforcer."

"What difference does it make?" Matt muttered darky, leaning forward in his chair and staring at the floor, "We're not the Force anymore anyway. Besides, Keith's dad is probably better off this way. If he... dies... at least he doesn't have to watch his family suffer as the planet falls to the Denebians."

The surrounding teens remained silent in reaction to the bitter observation made by the young man. After a moment, Jocelyn moved to his side, and lay a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You sound like you've given up."

Matt took a deep breath, and glanced up at her. "Why shouldn't I?"

"Because we're not dead yet," Rachel said, "Even if we lost the Spectrum Stones, we can still fight the Denebians. Sure, we'll be at a disadvantage, but maybe we can form a resistance, or... something!"

Rachel frowned at Matt's doubtful expression. "Besides, Spectra said we have an hour to come up with another plan of action, before she contains the Nightfall in the Spectrum Stone."

"Are you saying we can actually come up with a way to save the world in an hour?" Matt said incredulously, "It's not gonna happen. The only thing that can contain the Nightfall is our Spectrum Stones, and that's the end of it."

Tamara looked at Matthew in amazement, his statement sparking her creative mind with an idea.. Oh my God! Why didn't I think of it before?! It just may work... but it's a longshot. And risky. In fact, they'd never let me go through with it. I... I just can't tell them.

"I'm going to the bathroom," Tamara said, leaving her friends. She stepped into the abandoned bathroom, and concentrated. Spectra, do you hear me?

*I hear you, Tamara.*

Please, bring me to Cloud Castle. I have an idea that might work.

*I shall bring you all here immediately...*

No! Please, just bring me. I don't want the others to know.

There was silence for a moment.

*Very well. I'm sending you a portal.*

Tamara opened her eyes, and saw the black portal open in front of her. She quickly stepped through, and appeared in the throne room of Cloud Castle. She looked up, and saw Spectra seated at her throne, the six Spectrum Stones still orbiting some unseen axis.

"What is your idea, Tamara," Spectra inquired, "and why can it not be shared with your teammates."

"Because they'll try to talk me out of it," Tamara replied, folding her arms over her chest to keep them from shaking, "Okay, remember you said the Spectrum Stones are the only things that can contain Nightfall?"

"Yes."

"Well, who's to say you need all

of them to do it. Maybe one shard is enough."

Spectra regarded the young woman curiously. "There is a substantial difference between a White Stone and a fragment of it. For instance, a colored fragment wouldn't be able to completely contain the Nightfall. Only a white gem can deflect all the light that would feed it."

"But it's not the fact that it's white that keeps the Nightfall imprisoned, right?" Tamara continued, "The white coloring prevents light from entering, and therefore makes Nightfall weak. But it's the actual geometric shape and magical properties of the prism that contained the Nightfall."

Spectra blinked. "An interesting hypothesis, but if the Nightfall is allowed to gain energy, then it can free itself from the colored fragment. Can it not?"

"Not if the fragment is placed somewhere where there is no penetrating light. If we can find a vault for it, to keep the Nightfall, we can buy ourselves time to find another White Stone, and capture it for good! We've already seen that the Denebians somehow managed to get the Nightfall from the core of a Sun. It'd be safer if you hid it here, so long as they don't know where it was hidden. Like, how about deep within the surface of a planet?"

Spectra then rose from her throne, clasping her hands in front of her, "There is another significant difference between a shard and the entire White Stone. The geometric design of the White Stone is formatted so it actually can suck darkness into itself, like a vacuum. That property is practically disabled in the shard. The Nightfall won't be forced into the crystal, as it was in the White Stone centuries ago."

Tamara huffed with exasperation, letting her body drop to the floor. She sat on the cold golden tiles, tipping her chin to the large window stretching nearly completely across the eastern wall. From her vantage point, she gazed into the thick darkness that was created by the black Nightfall. However, unlike normal evenings, there was no moon to cast its gentle light to the Earth. Without the sun, the moon had no light to reflect. The sun was the energy source that powered all the immediate light in the solar system. It was the source of life, supporting everything that lived on Earth.

Just then, an idea occurred to the former Yellow Enforcer.

"Spectra," she said, tilting her eyes towards the mentor of the Spectrum Force, "The Nightfall is attracted to energy, right? That's how it finds the stars to consume."

Spectra nodded. "The Nightfall is attracted to life and light energy like a moth responds to a flame."

"Then, maybe a shard could attract the Nightfall!" Tamara declared, rising to her feet with newfound optimism.

"But, the White Stone does not have any life energy within it," Spectra pointed out, "Its energy is magically generated. There's a difference."

"But I can use it to reflect my own life energy, right?" Tamara pointed out, "A Spectrum Stone is capable of a lot. It takes in the power of the sun and transforms it into magical power. Can it somehow feed off life energy in a similar way?"

Spectra's inquisitive expression collapsed into a deep frown. "Such an action is extremely dangerous and ineffective. That is why I never informed the Spectrum Force of this ability. Yes, the Stone can reflect the life force of an individual, but the amount of energy within a single human being is so weak in comparison to a star, that it can only sustain a single energy burst."

"Could that energy burst lure the Nightfall into the shard?" Tamara asked, locking her eyes with Spectra's in a demanding manner.

Spectra's brow wrinkled in thought, and she turned away from Tamara to glance at the six Spectrum Stones.

"To be honest, Child... I do not know. That faint energy burst would have a different source than your usual powers, and it would be impossible for a person to sustain for longer than a moment. However, since it does originate from a living being, instead of a lifeless star, then it would be probable that the energy would be attractive to the Nightfall." Spectra then descended the row of stairs, and stood beside the pensive Yellow Enforcer. "The plan of action that you are considering is inadvisable, Tamara. It is extremely dangerous for the harbinger of the Spectrum Stone, and while it is possible that it will work, there are many hypotheses that must be true for it to work out. We cannot be sure that the Nightfall will enter the stone, or that it will be trapped within. There are properties of a shard that are not true with the whole. The effect of the combination between the Nightfall and the gem, as well as the connection between the Nightfall and the holder of the gem, are completely unknown."

Tamara swallowed, stepping away from Spectra and wrapping her arms tightly around herself. "I... I know it may not work. In fact, it probably won't work. But, do we have any other options that don't leave us with a dead planet?"

Spectra met Tamara's demanding gaze, and shook her head. "You are right. This is the only option we have that gives Earth a chance."

"Then it's what we're gonna do," Tamara decided, "I'm flying into the Nightfall, and I'll flash my life energy with the help of the stone. Hopefully, that flash will attract the parasite to investigate the crystal, and then its own momentum will push it into the crystal."

"Once the Nightfall is within the gem, you will automatically be reverted back into your human form," Spectra said quietly, "You will not be able to sustain the transformation into a Spectrum Enforcer with that darkness in the core of the gem. You'll be killed in moments."

Tamara's mouth opened slightly, and her lips began to tremble. She then pursed her rose lips together, and took a deep, calming breath. "If I die, will you be able to transport the yellow shard back here? Will you be able to contain it somewhere, so the Nightfall will be under control?"

Spectra nodded solemnly. "I am the one selected by Luminous to guard this White Stone. When the individual I deem worthy of holding a shard perishes, the shard automatically returns to me. The bond between the gem and the Enforcer breaks, so it becomes mine again."

Tamara smiled weakly. "So, if I don't make it, the gem will return."

"It should," Spectra corrected, "Once the Nightfall is within the gem, I don't know what the consequences will be. Still, I should be able to find it through my bond to the shards."

"So, is this plan a go?" Tamara asked, biting her lower lip as she awaited Spectra's response.

The ancient White Denebian descended the stairs, and placed her hands on Tamara's shoulders. To the young human's amazement, a smile crossed Spectra's ivory visage. "I must admit, I am impressed by your ingenuity, selflessness, and bravery. Like I said before, I am not your commander, so I cannot force you to make any plan of action. While your plan is risky, and while the costs will be great in your loss, the chances of it working are high enough that the plan grants consideration. If you can get the Nightfall into your gem, I can make sure it stays there."

Tamara sniffled quietly at the vote of confidence, and wrapped her arms around the stoic alien. Although she was slightly unraveled by the display of affection, Spectra returned the hug with almost maternal warmth. After a few moments, Tamara pulled away. Slowly, and with tears streaking down her pale face, Tamara walked up the stairs, and took her stone from the circling ring. She then found her silver band, which was lying on a pillar next to the throne. The gemstone connected to the ring immediately, and she slid it onto her finger.

"For the last time," she whispered, "Spectrum Sync... YELLOW!!"

In a bright flash of light, Tamara was once again the Yellow Enforcer. She descended the stairs, and stood in front of Spectra.

"Can... can you do me a favor?" she asked.

"Certainly."

"Tell Keith, and the others, that I had to do it. And tell them that I love them all."

"I will. Farewell, Tamara Fox."

"Bye," Tamara whispered, her body trembling as she floated off the ground. She waved, and passed through the window. After a wistful glance at Cloud Castle, and the city below, she flew into space. She moved as quickly as she could, streaking towards the Sun. She could feel her energy lowering, since her Spectrum Stone had only a little left. Still, she was determined she would reach her destination.

Chapter Twenty

"Sheesh," Jocelyn muttered, glancing at her watch, "how long has Tammy been in the bathroom? It's been fifteen minutes."

"Maybe she got lost," Matt offered, the scowl on his face freezing his features.

"I'll go look for her," Rachel said, "She's probably really upset."

Chris watched as Rachel left the waiting area towards the restrooms. He turned towards the doors leading into the actual hospital, and saw Keith walk through them, his hands in his pockets and his ocean eyes bloodshot and dull. All four teens hurried to meet him.

"What's happened? How is he?" Craig pressed.

"He's alive," Keith said in a voice barely above a whisper, "Fortunately the arrow missed any major organs, but it was a hair's length from puncturing his heart. Still, he's lost a lot of blood. He... he may not make it through the night..."

Keith's voice died as he pushed through his friends, and sat down heavily on a bench, holding his face in his hands. He then ran his hands up his flushed face and through his blonde hair. "My mother's still with him," he revealed, "and Connie is waiting there too. I... I don't know... I just couldn't... take it anymore!"

Keith's voice quivered once again, and fresh tears welled in his eyes. The confident, hot-headed Red Enforcer was replaced by a broken young man, who gazed down a path of endless night. "Why did this have to happen?" he asked no one in particular, his voice shuddering as he gasped for air, "What if he doesn't make it? We never got along well, but I... I always thought we'd straighten out our differences eventually..."

"Oh Keith," Jocelyn whispered, sitting beside him and wrapping him in a warm hug, "I'm so sorry..."

Keith let his hurt and depression overwhelm his senses, and he returned the hug with near desperation, as if he was trying to hold on to some sense of comfort by clutching Jocelyn's small frame.

Suddenly, however, something just felt wrong in the pit of his being. He quickly pulled away from his friend, and glanced around at the others. "Hey," he said quietly, "Where's...?"

"Guys," Rachel called at that moment, running towards the congregation, "Tamara's gone."

Keith turned to Rachel, his eyes wide. "What do you mean 'gone'?"

"She's not in the bathroom," Rachel clarified, "A nurse said she saw a young woman go into the bathroom about fifteen minutes ago, but she didn't see anyone come out. And she's not in the bathroom now."

"Then, where is she?" Chris asked.

"Do you think she went to see Spectra?" Matt offered.

"Without telling the rest of us?" Rachel asked skeptically, "That's not like Tammy."

Suddenly, all six heroes heard a strong voice echoing in their heads. *Spectrum Force, this is Spectra. Please go to the parking lot outside the building you are now in. There is a portal waiting for you, and the coast is clear of onlookers. And hurry. It is important.*

Chapter Twenty-One

After about ten minutes of flight in the form of a beam of light, Tamara reverted herself into her normal form. She could feel the pressure building in her chest, giving testament to her low energy supply. But she ignored the pain, and flew forward. Her expression hardened when she slowed to a halt, just outside the black cloud that masked the sun.

"Incredible," she whispered, just within the space of the cloud. To her surprise, her voice carried through the Nightfall. Whereas sound cannot pass through the void of space, the Nightfall served as a sound medium.

Here goes everything...

she thought, passing deeper into the cloud. Inside the cloud was an eerie sound that was slightly reminiscent of suction. Without giving it another thought, Tamara pulled off her glove, revealing her ring. She held her breath and concentrated, as if trying to push her focus through the gemstone. Her eyes widened in surprise when she saw the blackness start to pour into the ring as if it were a drain.

It's working!

she realized in excitement. But after a few minutes, she shivered in fear at the realization that the ring had turned from bright yellow to heavy black.

"Oh God," she whispered in panic, as the inky blackness continued to pour into the ring. First, the gemstone turned black. Then, the silver band turned black.

"What's happening?!" she shrieked, as the Nightfall continued to drain. Suddenly, Tamara felt her arm grow numb. She stared at her bare hand, and in horror, she noticed her skin. It had turned pitch black.

A terrified, anguished scream was the last sound to pass from Tamara Fox's lips.

Chapter Twenty-Two

"What's going on?" asked Keith wearily, folding his arms. At this point, it took all the strength in his body to keep himself at all calm. His father was dying. He failed his planet. His love was nowhere to be found. There was enough tragedy weighing on Keith's mind to bring him to his knees.

"Spectra?" Rachel asked, stepping closer to the podium. Spectra's eyes were closed in deep concentration, and a grim frown crossed her face. The former Spectrum Force knew it could only mean bad news. All the individuals present noticed that the Spectrum Stones remained on the podium beside Spectra's throne, indicating that she hadn't yet joined them into the White Stone to capture Nightfall.

"Guys!!" Jocelyn shrieked, staring out the large window, "Look!!"

Matthew, Rachel, Chris, and Craig joined Jocelyn at the western window, and gazed out in shock. Although it was early evening, the Sun was visible over the horizon. The entire sky was slowly taking on a navy blue shade, far brighter than the thick blackness that covered it for hours.

"I... I don't understand," Matt choked, glancing from the Spectrum Stones to the window and back again, "I thought there was no hope..."

"I told you not to give up!" Jocelyn shrieked with excitement, tightly hugging her good friend. Overcome with relief and joy, Rachel enthusiastically kissed Chris, who returned the gesture with equal gusto. As a team, five young heroes then embraced in a group hug of victory. Once again, against impossible odds, good triumphed over evil. Miraculously, the Nightfall was defeated, without the sacrifice of the White Stone.

But Keith didn't join his friends at the window, in their celebration at the salvation of the planet. Of course, he was greatly relieved that Earth would continue. The dark empire of the Denebians hadn't won yet. But in the core of his being, he knew the future wasn't as bright as it looked at the moment. And Spectra's frown was a testament to that.

"Spectra," Keith said again, turning to the wise sage, "where's Tamara?"

"Yeah," said Craig, stepping away from the window, "She disappeared at the hospital! Do you know where she went?"

But Spectra was still oblivious to the words of her Spectrum Force. In frustration, as well as in response to the overwhelming dread that began building in his heart, Keith ascended the golden stairs, intending on jarring Spectra from her magical reverie. From atop the podium, he had a clear view of the pillar upon which lay the Spectrum Stones. His eyes widened when he noticed only five stones were present.

"No," he whispered, falling to his knees to see if the yellow stone had fallen, "it's not what I think it is..."

"Keith?" Chris said, watching his best friend's actions, "Are you okay, man?"

"No I'm not!" he yelled, standing up and grabbing Spectra's shoulders, "Wake up, dammit!!"

Spectra's eyes shuttered open, and she gazed into Keith's panicked eyes. He released her, and stepped back, allowing the White Denebian to walk past him, and descend the stairs. She stopped at the window, and gazed at the sun in the distance. Sure enough, it looked healthy and strong.

"Success," she said quietly. While her voice carried some sense of relief, her frown didn't soften. She then turned back to the six teenagers, who stood in a row.

"Can you please explain what's going on?" Matt said, still in shock at their sudden victory, "It doesn't make sense."

"And where's Tamara?!" Keith demanded, "Her stone's gone!"

"What?!" said Rachel, turning to her friend with wide eyes, "You're kidding."

"No, I'm not," Keith said, an impatient frown on his face, "Would I kid around about something like this?"

Spectra held up her hand, signaling silence from her young team. "Tamara came to me about twenty minutes ago, asking for permission to attempt a very dangerous method of capturing the Nightfall without putting an end to the Spectrum Force. She hypothesized that a single shard of the White Stone, as opposed to the entire crystal, would be sufficient in capturing the Nightfall. She was determined to save the planet. And so she went into the Nightfall as the Yellow Enforcer, intending to seal the Nightfall in her Spectrum Stone."

"But, even if it did work, there's no way Tammy could survive it... is there?" Jocelyn whispered, her hand slowly rising to her lips.

Spectra shook her head solemnly. "I lost telepathic contact with the Yellow Enforcer minutes before I contacted you. I tried to re-establish communication, but there is nothing out there. I cannot locate the yellow stone either. It is as if she has vanished from reality. Moments later, the Nightfall completely disappeared, allowing the Sun to shine on Earth again."

"She's... dead?" Keith inquired quietly, his voice weak with denial.

Spectra nodded, her grim expression deepening. "Tamara sacrificed her life, so her planet can live on. The Spectrum Force may be down one, but they can still provide ample defense against the Denebians."

"And that's it?" Keith growled, clenching his fists tightly, "She's just dead, end of story? Why didn't you stop her?!"

"I couldn't," Spectra answered, "Tamara was determined to try her best to save Earth."

"Why... why didn't she tell us?" Jocelyn choked, tears forming in her fawn eyes, "I mean, she could've at least... said goodbye."

Spectra smiled weakly at the young Orange Enforcer, at to the girl's surprise, she noticed a watery film over the sage's eyes. "She knew you would try to discourage her," Spectra said gently, "She told me to tell you all that she had to do this, and that she loved you all dearly."

At that, Rachel squeezed her eyes tightly, and covered her face with her hands. Chris' eyes gathered moisture, and he gathered Rachel into his arms, stroking her deep brown hair gently as she leaned weakly into his chest. Jocelyn too began to cry outright, and sat down on the golden floor right where she was standing. Craig leaned against the nearest wall, his eyes wide with shock, and wet with tears of sorrow. Matthew was crying as well, wiping at his eyes and trying his best to fight it. Keith looked at all his friends, his fists clamped so tightly that his knuckles became white. His entire body trembled with anguish.

"First my father, and now Tammy," he whispered, tears spilling from his eyes. He looked up at Spectra, his blue eyes enraged and crazed. "Get me outta here! NOW!!"

"Take back your Spectrum Stones," she commanded, "You are the Spectrum Force again, sworn to protect Earth. Tamara sacrificed her life so the team could continue to fight for the planet."

Keith hurried up the steps, and grabbed the red stone immediately. He then transformed himself into a beam of light, and streaked out the window, leaving the other Enforcers to mourn Tamara Fox without him.

His mind swimming, his last clear thought was to escape. He couldn't bear to fall apart in front of his friends.

Epilogue

Part One

^And now, thirty-six hours after the terrible eclipse ended, the snow has started to melt all over the world, and meteorologists predict a return to typical springtime weather,^ reported the young woman, striding through the muddy slush that still spotted the banks of the Hamilton River, ^Although scientists try to determine the cause of the unexplained eclipse, the leading hypothesis is that the event is related to the mass invasion of strange beings that flooded the frozen streets of LA during the blizzard. Who was this army? Information is sparse, but the invaders were referred to by a member of the Spectrum Force as Denebians, which may connect them to the distant star Deneb. There is no sign of these invaders presently, as they vanished completely only minutes after the Sun's return.^

Tracy Preston then paused by one of the bridges crossing the river, which was all but destroyed. She leaned against part of the railing, and continued. ^The mystery woven around these strange recent events is still clouded. However, one thing the eclipse certainly confirmed for the entire world was the existence of the Spectrum Force. This team of superheroes made their debut several weeks ago, when they dodged media coverage after fending off an attack at a local upscale restaurant. Since the actual footage of the team is so sparse, very few individuals out of the Langstrum Alps area put any faith in their existence. However, the eclipse brought these heroes into the public eye yet again. During the eclipse, six members focused their attentions right here at the Hamilton River, where a strange creature was reported to exist. This monster destroyed the bridge I'm standing beside. Also, a new and unidentified winged member of the Force, shown here at the side of the National Guard, came to the general aid of the street forces against the invading Denebian armies. With this footage, plus the inexplicable eclipse, even the most skeptical are beginning to believe that we are not alone in the universe. Rather, there is at least one other species of intelligent life, and they are without a doubt belligerent.^

As the reporter continued her summary of the historic invasion, various clips of the Spectrum Force, including their newest member, snapped past on the corner of the screen. Also shown were screen captures of the invading armies, including one female warrior with a golden tiara and a fierce long bow.

^While the Spectrum Force's existence has been verified, the United States government for one is not planning on letting us fall victim to this type of invasion again. The Secretary of Defense is at this very moment assembling a committee of scientists and military agents to form a defensive strategy to protect the entire planet from such an offensive. Obviously, this endeavor is in its earliest of stages, but the total cost of such a global protection policy with doubtless cost trillions of dollars.

^Now, just a handful of hours after this momentous event, it's clear to see that the world around us is changing. Enemies we didn't even know existed have come out into the open, giving the entire planet all the more reason to consent to peace talks. It's still too soon to know for certain how greatly this event will change the world scene. Back to you, Greg.^

The reporter vanished, only to be replaced by a shot of the news desk. An elderly man with a receding hairline nodded his head, and then fixed his eyes on the camera. ^Thanks, Tracy. While it's true that Langstrum Alps was hit the hardest by the eclipse due to the invasion, it can't be denied that the unseasonal snowfall was devastating to other parts of the world as well. Blizzards threatened crops across the planet, and left many homeless. Globally, several thousand are estimated to have been either killed or seriously injured by the freezing temperatures and unnatural snowfall. Locally, with the strange invasion coupled by the weather, dozens of deaths and numerous injuries have been reported, including a significant percentage of the National Guard. Also, one young woman, a local UCLA student, has been reported missing. As of now, there are no new developments to the whereabouts of Miss Tamara Fox--^

"Enough," Jocelyn whispered, turning off the television and taking another sip of coffee. Wearily, she pushed herself off the couch, and walked into the kitchen to refill her cup. Bloodshot hazel eyes stared into the whirlpool created by her spoon, drinking in the spinning blackness. Vaguely, she wondered if that was what the Nightfall had looked like from the inside... as Tamara had seen it.

Jocelyn swallowed hard, gathering the folds of her cream-colored robe and taking a seat upon the kitchen stool. She lay her heavy head on her palm, and let her elbow rest on the countertop. Lifeless strands of auburn hair fell about her shoulders, as her right hand was caught in the same routine of stirring the coffee.

All she could see was the spinning void of darkness. All she could hear was the sound of silence.

How ironic... the people of the entire planet celebrated their salvation, but the people who fought for that salvation were all neck-deep in depression. And the one person who carried out the impossible... well... she could never celebrate anything.

The hardest thing was lying about Tammy's fate. With all her courage and strength, she couldn't claim her rightful place in history as the hero who saved Earth. Instead, the team decided to report Tammy as missing to the police. Also, Rachel made the painful call to Tammy's parents, informing them of Tammy's disappearance.

At least for the time being, not even Tamara's family would know what happened. They would think her death a pointless tragedy, rather than the selfless sacrifice it truly was.

Suddenly, the slim strength in Jocelyn's body gave out. The young woman pushed her coffee cup away, and let her head drop to the tabletop, nestling it in her arms as she let her weary eyelids drop.

Yet as soon as the darkness became all she could see, her eyes shot open with desperation, and once again stared blankly at her coffee cup.

She just couldn't stand the darkness.

"Hello?" came a weak voice, reminiscent of a groan. The Orange Enforcer rolled her eyes towards the door, where a faint knock accompanied the voice.

"It's... open," she called, her voice hoarse. Slowly, the door pushed open, and a tall figure stepped into the room. He lumbered towards the couch, and sat down heavily, releasing a long sigh as he stared at the ceiling. Both hands reached up to his head, and ran along his face and smooth head slowly. Finally, he leaned forward, clasping his temples between both hands.

"Still suffering from that hangover?" Jocelyn asked, pushing her head up so she could see Craig better.

"Yeah," Craig moaned, shaking his head, "It was dumb, but I didn't know how to handle it all. I mean... it was so out of the blue, you know? The emotional rollercoaster of sure defeat, a glimpse of hope, utter doom, sudden salvation, and then shocking tragic news... I couldn't take it. So, I became good friends with Jose Cuervo."

"It's a good thing Matt stopped you from drinking the whole bottle," Jocelyn muttered accusingly, picking up her coffee mug and walking back to the couch, "You've never been much of a drinker, and tequila isn't something to mess around with. The last thing we need is another tragedy on our hands. Here, drink this."

Craig accepted the coffee, and stared at it a little. "I'm not still drunk, you know."

"True, but caffeine is a great pain-killer," Jocelyn pointed out.

Craig shrugged, taking a long sip of the strong brew. "Thanks, Kiddo."

"No problem," she answered, leaning back on the couch beside her friend. She chewed on her lip for a moment, and then turned back to Craig. "So, how're Matt and Keith? I haven't seen nor heard from Keith since we left Cloud Castle, and Matt's been a stranger too."

Craig nodded. "Actually, Keith hasn't been back to the apartment at all. Matt was basically watching over me," he admitted grimly, "but now he went to find Keith. God knows he's suffering the most."

"Tell me about it," Jocelyn sighed, "And the worst part of it is, Tamara is probably the only one who could've made him feel better about what happened to his father, and now she's..."

Jocelyn cut herself off, her eyes casting towards one of the three bedrooms. "You know, this morning, I woke up, and I honestly thought it was all a dream," she confessed, "The Nightfall, Keith's father, Tammy... I thought it was a nightmare, and that I had woken up to the uncomplicated life I've always had. And then, as I stepped out of my room and saw Tammy's empty room, it dawned on me just how real it is."

"I know," Craig revealed, "Being the Spectrum Force sure did mean we put our lives on the line, but we never won a battle with anything more than a couple scratches. Now, we might have won the battle, but we definitely took a hit... that can never heal."

Craig swallowed another sip of coffee, and glanced around the room inquisitively. "Say... where's Rachel, anyway?"

Jocelyn shrugged her shoulders. "She left before I woke up... or at least, before I got out of bed. Actually, Chris came by about an hour ago looking for her."

Craig nodded. "Yeah, he came by my apartment too. I wonder where she is?"

"She's okay," Jocelyn pointed out, "If she weren't, then our Spectrum Stones would have warned us. I think she just wants to be alone. It's her way of dealing with problems."

"It doesn't matter what she wants," Craig stated, "I have a feeling Chris won't let her be alone. Not at a time like this."

Part Two

There she was. Standing right in front of her. Grinning despicably, sharp fangs and blood red lips. Laughing mockingly, knowing the pain she caused. Knowing the innocent blood that wet her hands, but feeling no guilt whatsoever. Confident that she would be the victor.

No, she wouldn't be.

A powerful right punch landed in her stomach, while the follow-up left pummeled into her wicked grin. Then, the offense pulled both arms back, and balanced herself for a wicked kick, whipping her right leg with all her strength and plowing it into Celea's knees.

The dark princess only glided back from the fierce attack, and slowly faded away. She was replaced by her father, the towering despot Acheron.

The cold being that threatened to drain the life energy of the mythical Phoenix. The monster that nearly killed Chris Greyson, just because he was there. The demon that unleashed the Nightfall.

The fighter's eyes stung just at the thought of the devastation Acheron caused. So many people suffered around the entire world. So many died, from the freezing temperature and dangerous winds, or the critical power losses that compromised hospitals, to the invading armies that marched through the snowbanked streets of Langstrum Alps.

Nothing like that would ever happen again, she vowed, as a cry of rage escaped her raw throat. She pounded mercilessly, her hands plowing into Acheron ceaselessly. If it weren't for the padded gloves she wore, no doubt the ferocity of the exercise would have drawn blood from her mistreated knuckles. She didn't even acknowledge the stares of the people around her, watching in amazement at her animalistic display.

No doubt they felt sorry for the punching bag that antagonized Rachel Castaneda so.

Suddenly, a feeling of warmth entered Rachel's mind and heart. The ferocity in her body began to fade, and the projected image of the Denebian monarch gave way to the reality of the leather punching bag that absorbed all her fury. She released a ragged breath of exhaustion, tossing her hands onto her hips as she turned around. Her expression didn't change when she saw Chris standing behind her, his hands held in his pockets casually and his dark eyes fixed upon her.

"How long have you been there?" Rachel rasped, pulling off her kickboxing gloves. She tossed them onto the floor and pulled the tie from her hair, allowing her lengthening curls to frame her sweat-beaded face.

"About five minutes," he answered, "I didn't want to interrupt you. It looked like a very... therapeutic exercise."

His answer was followed by a long silence, as Rachel picked up her gloves and sat down on a nearby bench. She glanced around the gym, noting the handful of people using the various weight machines and other pieces of equipment.

"So," Chris said, taking a seat beside Rachel and watching her take a long sip of water, "how long did you know I was here?"

"I picked up on it when you... broadcast your thoughts," she admitted, trying her best to keep her voice even, "Really, Chris, you need to learn how to keep your mind to yourself."

"Maybe I didn't want to," he answered gently, "Maybe I wanted you to know that I was really worried about you."

Rachel glanced at him through the corner of her eye, her lips curling into a slight frown as she took another sip of water. Chris cringed slightly when he saw her expression, that bordered on sheer anger. He caught himself before he tried to touch her mind, to see what she was really thinking. Could she really be angry

at him for being concerned for her? Or, was she afraid of something?

"So," he said, breaking the silence that quickly settled in, "I... uh... I've been thinking about... you know... a name for myself. You know, something for you guys to call me when we're in battle, in case someone's watching."

Chris glanced at Rachel through his chestnut bangs, but she kept her eyes away from him. Still, he could discern she was listening.

"Um... I was thinking of Horizon," he revealed, "I'm the first step in a new stage of human evolution. I'm the first mutant, as Phoenix called it, on our planet. I'm the first human with natural superpowers. So, I'm a glimpse of the future. I'm what's on the horizon for all mankind."

Chris gazed at Rachel for a while, hesitantly touching her shoulder. "So, what do you think?"

"Eloquent," she answered crisply, pulling away from his touch and rising to her feet, "but I really don't feel like talking about this now."

Chris watched in astonishment as Rachel picked up her gloves, and started to walk away from him. His surprise quickly transforming into frustration, Chris leapt from his seat, and followed her across the gym.

"Then what do you feel like talking about?" he pressed, falling into step beside her.

"Nothing," she answered, "I don't feel like talking about anything

at the moment. So please, just... leave me alone. Please?"

She paused for a moment, and gazed into his eyes. Her teary eyes were practically begging him to leave her alone, and a single drop of moisture escaped her eye, sliding down her cheek.

A frown forming on her face, Rachel quickly brushed away the tear, and briskly walked away from Chris. "I'll talk to you later," she said, hurrying into the girl's locker room. Chris watched in amazement as he saw the door swing closed behind her.

"Oh, no you don't," he whispered, marching through the door, "You're not pushing me away now, Rachel!

Rachel stared at him with naked bewilderment, her hand dropping from the padlock on a narrow wall locker. "Chris, this is the women's

locker room! Can't you take a hint?!"

"Well, I'm not going to give you a hint," he said firmly, folding his arms, "I'm going to be blunt: I'm not letting you do this."

"What?" she challenged, turning her back to him and unlocking the latch on her locker.

"Cut yourself off. Brood. Drown in self-pity and blame. Let your ridiculous display of strength eat you up from the inside."

Rachel felt her entire body tremble with rage at his words. "I'm the leader of the Spectrum Force," she said in a forcedly even tone, "If I'm not strong, then who will be? I can't just fall apart, you know. I've got to keep my team together."

"You don't do that by alienating yourself from your teammates," Chris pointed out, "They're your friends, Rachel. And they know you're human. They're not expecting you to be a rock. You're not an emotionless robot soldier. You just lost your best friend. It's okay to grieve."

"What do you think I'm doing?!" she shouted, collapsing to the bench, "I'm letting out my grief."

"No, you're letting out your anger

. That's not the same. You're angry at the Denebians, but mostly you're angry at yourself. You're angry at yourself, for not being ready for this attack. You're angry for not coming up with the plan Tamara utilized. You're angry for not being the one to make the ultimate sacrifice. You're trying to prepare yourself for next time. You don't like feeling inadequate. You want vengeance."

Rachel looked up, throwing a disdainful scowl at Chris. He ignored her bitter expression and continued, for her own good.

"You're letting out your anger, but you're not dealing with your grief. You're keeping it bottled inside you. You've got to face it, and move on."

Rachel's lips trembled, and she squeezed her eyes shut. "Move on? Dammit, Chris, my best friend is dead

! And it's my fault! It should have been me

! The captain is the one who always goes down with the ship. The sergeant protects his officers. The leader makes the sacrifices!" Rachel paused for a moment, sniffling quietly. "It should have been me."

"You're making it sound like Tammy was unworthy of sacrificing herself," Chris observed. He carefully kept his distance, not intruding on Rachel's personal space as she wiped the droplets that fell down her face.

"No!" she responded quickly, staring up at him in horror, "No! That's not it at all! I... I..."

"You miss your friend, and you wish that you could have saved her from her fate," Chris finished, "But did it ever occur to you that, maybe... that's exactly what she was doing? Protecting her friends? After all, she didn't even say goodbye. She didn't want to take the chance that someone else would die carrying out her plan. She didn't just die to save her planet. She died to save her friends

."

Rachel swallowed the lump that had grown in her throat, and pulled her legs to her body. She then wrapped her arms around her legs, her entire body quivering as she cried into her knees. She remained that way for several minutes, not even pausing for breath as the tears were shed. With every tear... a little bit more of the well of grief crumbled.

Chris watched Rachel, wrapped around herself, sobbing uncontrollably. So fragile... so delicate. So much unlike the bold, brash woman he had become familiar with.

He felt privileged to witness this side of her personality as well. The gentler side. The fragile side. The side she seemed ashamed of. The side she hid from the vast majority of the world.

The side he always knew was in there... somewhere.

After a few minutes, Rachel lifted her head slightly, and glanced at Chris. Considering how quiet he had been, she was slightly surprised to see he was still there. He didn't move an inch. He just waited patiently for her to recover.

"God, this is embarrassing," she whispered, rubbing her eyes with her fist.

"What makes you say that?" he pressed, still keeping his distance, "I'm glad

to see you break down and cry. I'm glad to see you release the pain that's been there all along. Now don't you feel better?"

Rachel sighed in defeat. She couldn't deny it... she did feel better.

"And just how

do you know me so well?" she inquired, dropping her hands to her lap. She gazed at him fervently, truly curious as to the source of his insight. Was it simply his psionic powers that clued him in? Did he read her mind to discern what was plaguing her? Was it simply a breach of privacy, or was it something more?

For the first time since he entered the locker room, Chris was caught off guard. He gazed at Rachel, locking eyes with her seekingly. Finally, he took a deep breath, and took a step closer to her.

"You really want to know?" he asked.

She nodded slowly, her eyes narrowing with curiosity.

Chris took another deep breath, and his eyes fell to the floor. "Well, um... it's actually something I've been wanting to talk to you about for awhile now. But, it's never really the right time. We only met a couple weeks ago, and lately our lives have been quite... complicated. Still, uh..." He swallowed once again, and began chewing on his lower lip as he racked his brain for the right words, "We've only just met, but I think we've been through a lot together. I've been thinking about this for a while and... I think we should talk about... our relationship..."

"No," Rachel interrupted, her voice weak but certain.

Chris' eyes shuttered open, and he stared at Rachel in astonishment. Her eyes were still red and puffy, but her face was grim and firm. "Excuse me?" he asked, more overcome by shock than anything else.

"I can't believe you brought this up now

," she muttered, turning away from his gaze, "We don't have

a relationship that requires qualifying."

"What?!" Chris uttered in astonishment, his voice a bit harsher than he had intended, "Rachel, what are you saying

?"

"We're practically strangers," Rachel said quietly, "We've only known each other for a handful of days. You don't even know me."

"I know you well enough," Chris pressed, watching amazedly as Rachel packed her belongings, "I've seen you in your brightest, and your darkest hours. I know your bravery, your dedication, your intelligence, your sarcasm, your strength. I know your tenderness and compassion. God, Rachel, I can't believe you think we're strangers

..."

"It's too soon," Rachel stated, running one hand through her hair nervously, "It's too soon..."

She then closed her locker, and stepped past Chris. Without even thinking, Chris reached out and grabbed her arm. She glanced back at him, noting that his dark eyes were now moist with bitter tears.

"Ray," he said in a low voice, "is this your way of telling me that you... don't want to be with me?"

Rachel swallowed hard, wrenching her arm from his and hurrying to the locker room door. Chris' eyes widened as she moved further from him.

"Please, Rachel," he called after her, "don't-"

She then disappeared through the swinging door.

"-keep running away from me," he finished, sitting heavily on the bench and staring at the door. With a deep sigh, he pushed closed Rachel's locker, which she had left open in her haste.

"Why did I go into that subject?" he asked himself, running his fingers through his thick hair, "How stupid am I?"

He should have known that Rachel wasn't ready for that. In fact, even he was barely coming to grips with his feelings. He wasn't sure exactly at what point his affection for the Purple Enforcer really blossomed. It didn't even cross his mind until their sparring match just before the Nightfall incident. Rachel's reserved admission of her concern for him gave Chris such a wonderful feeling of... fulfillment. As if he had just ran a tedious race, and came in first place. Was he trying to win her love? Was it a prize he'd been yearning for, without even knowing it?

He had reflected upon his feelings for her, but of course the events of the Nightfall and after had seriously limited his time for romantic reflection. But he did know for certain, when he watched Rachel cry before his eyes, that the only thing he wanted to do was to soothe her. To lessen her pain. To free her from the bonds of her self-inflicted emotional torture.

That's when he knew

he really cared for her. He cared for her more than he thought possible for such a new acquaintance.

And now, he foolishly chose the worst time he could have possibly chosen to broach the subject. And now, he may have done permanent damage to their budding relationship.

"Way to go, Greyson," Chris berated himself, standing up and leaning his head on Rachel's locker, "You sure have a way with women."

Part Three

Matthew took a deep, calming breath as the elevator paused on the fourth floor. The metal doors slid open, revealing a long, narrow hallway.

He hurried out of the confining chamber, sighing in relief as he glanced behind him, and watched the doors slide shut. He wiped the small amount of sweat that beaded on his forehead, and rubbed the moisture onto his pants leg before walking hesitantly down the hall.

For a moment, he wondered at what point his slight claustrophobia had intensified. He was never comfortable in small, enclosed spaces, but he could usually handle elevators without really any discomfort. Typically, he needed to already be in a tense, agitated state for any real symptoms of discomfort to display themselves.

It was over a day after Tamara died, and he miraculously managed to maintain an agitated state continuously since then. Of course, the strain of his friends being in states of depression, as well as Craig's dangerous drinking binge and Keith's apparent disappearance certainly didn't help the young man deal with his concerns.

He couldn't get Tamara out of his head. He kept seeing the gentle laugh in her large brown eyes, or her tender smile. She was always bright and shining... always optimistic, friendly, and open. She was always ready for a good laugh.

Tamara was the optimism that canceled out Matthew's pessimism.

Now... where would that balance come from? Who else would be Matthew's glowing older sister, to keep an eye on him and make sure he wasn't working too hard? Who would make him look at the brighter side?

He always thought Tammy was too happy. Now, he could only wish that someone with that inner light could grace his life, so for a brief moment the darkness could fade a little.

Since Tammy's death, Matthew had pushed aside his own feelings in a futile attempt to forget them. He made his concern the state of his friends... just as Tammy would have done. He tried to cheer up Craig, and sought to find Keith. Of course, there was nothing Matt could do to ease Keith's pain... but it certainly wouldn't hurt to try.

Matt's gaze rose to the number on the large wooden door. He pressed his lips tightly in agitation as he knocked on the door, the echo bouncing around the empty hotel hallway.

At first, there was no response at all. Briefly, Matthew considered that Keith wasn't at his family's hotel room. Probably a better place to look would have been the hospital. However, since the Nightfall the Langstrum Alps Memorial Hospital had been so inundated with people that it had become a scene from ER. Since he was studying to be a physician, Matt knew he'd eventually have to be able to deal with the pain and suffering of others. But he was only a freshman... he had seven years of study to complete before he'd earn that license to practice medicine. He hoped his sensitivity would dampen somewhat before then.

Finally, there was a faint shuffling sound in the room. Matt held his breath as the door opened slightly, and a slender girl with large blue eyes gazed up at him expectantly.

"Hi... Connie, right?" Matt said uneasily, doing his best to smile in greeting. The girl nodded her head in response. "Uh... I was looking for Keith. Is he around?"

Connie Maloy narrowed her cerulean eyes slightly, staring up at Matthew questioningly. "Who are you?"

Matt blinked. "I'm Matt O'Conner. We met at the... hospital the other day. I'm one of Keith's roommates."

"Right, right," Connie said, nodding her head absently, "I'm sorry I didn't remember your face. That night was just... so intense. I was actually doing my best to block it all out."

Connie chuckled weakly at her admission. She then backed away, making room for Matthew to enter. "You can come in if you'd like."

"Thanks," Matt answered, walking into the hotel room. To his surprise, the room was mostly dark, with the exception of about half a dozen colored candlesticks, sitting in a circle around a small portion of the carpet. Sitting in the circle was a pile of several books.

"Uh... I hope I'm not interrupting anything," Matt said quietly, frowning slightly.

"Oh no," Connie responded, humored by Matt's reaction, "Don't worry... it's not some kind of weird voodoo ceremony or anything. Actually, they're aromatherapy candles. Keith uses them to relax when he's stressed out, and we brought them as a birthday present." Her frown deepened. "This is certainly going to be a memorable 21st for him." Connie suddenly shook her head quickly, as if trying to force her thoughts from wandering to the grim consequences of the Nightfall. "Anyway... I thought I'd try it out."

Matt did his best to ignore the statement about Keith's mournful birthday, and kneeled on the carpet just outside the circle. "And what are the books for? Hmm... 'The World of Microbiology' and Jane Austen's 'Mansfield Park.' What an eclectic taste you have!"

Connie smiled, shrugging her shoulders as she pulled open the curtains, allowing the bright afternoon sunlight to pour into the dim quarters. "Well, the candles are Keith's way of relaxing, and reading is mine. I love to read novels. They just... whisk me away from reality. Suddenly, my problems are lost as the story takes over. I especially love older novels, like the nineteenth century. Or even science fiction. Both of them pull the reader into a completely different world, with exotic costumes, breath-taking landscapes, and foreign cultures. The power of fiction is incredible."

Matthew nodded, picking up the other book. "And what's the micro book for?"

"Well, I do have an exam to study for, but considering... all that's happened... it's just not a concern anymore."

"I know where you're coming from," Matt said, sitting down on the carpet and leafing through the textbook, "I took micro last term, and it was murder!"

"It's rough," Connie admitted, falling back on the couch, "but it's really interesting. The microscopic world is amazing! It's so hard to conceive all the living things that can exist in a space the size of a pinhead. Just imagine all the different bacteria living on your skin at this very moment!"

Matt grimaced, glancing at his palm in disgust. "Actually, I'd rather not imagine it."

Connie released a giggle at Matthew's expression, and leaned closer to him, her eyes dancing for the brief moment when she could push her troubles aside, and forget them. "So you don't like bacteria, but you took micro? What exactly are you studying anyway?"

"Medicine," he answered, his vibrant jade gaze focused on the jumping spark of a nearby candle, "I'm going to be a doctor."

Connie whistled, nodding her head. "Impressive. And you're so sure of it too, aren't you?"

"Yeah. I've always wanted to be a doctor," Matt admitted, holding his hand above the candle flame, "My dad's a doctor, actually. And he loves his job. He's a pediatrician, and when I was in grade school, he set up his practice at a medical center down the street from our home in Greenwich."

"Greenwich, eh?" Connie interrupted, folding her arms, "Pretty ritzy, eh?"

Matt chuckled. "Well, even the wealthy need a doctor they can trust their children with. And yeah, my dad makes good money. But I could see it in his eyes... the greatest reward for him was when his patients felt better. Sometimes, I spent a few hours in the center after school, in the playroom with the other kids and stuff. My dad has a great way with kids... they were always so nervous, but he took care of them. They'd walk out of the office with a lollipop and a grin." Matt smiled widely at the memory.

"A lollipop," Connie commented.

"Well, my dad's a pediatrician, not a dentist," Matt quipped, stretching onto his back on the carpet. "And I want to be just like him. I want to make people feel

better. What can possibly be more rewarding than that?"

"Nothing immediately comes to mind," Connie answered truthfully, staring up at the ceiling, "It's a great motivation for being a doctor. Most of the students in my micro class are pre-meds also, but it doesn't take a genius to see that they have no passion

for medicine. They're probably in it for the money, respect, and recognition."

"So, are you a pre-med too?" Matt questioned, rolling onto his side and gazing at Connie, "There aren't many other majors that require micro, and you're probably not taking it as an elective."

Connie giggled. "Far from it. Actually, I'm a bacteriology major."

"Wow," Matt whispered, "I... I didn't even know that was a major

."

"Believe it or not, that's the most common response I get," Connie admitted, "but what can I say? The microscopic world intrigues me."

With a small groan of effort, Connie rose to her feet and turned to Matt, streaking back her wayward flaxen hair in an effort to straighten it out. "I'm getting a little hungry," she admitted, walking to the table and picking up the telephone, "Wanna order something from room service?"

Matt grimaced slightly at the thought. "I ate at the hotel's restaurant before and believe me, it's not very impressive. How do you feel about Chinese?"

Connie smiled. "Chinese food is probably my favorite. Do you know a good restaurant?"

Matt grinned proudly as he moved towards Connie, and took the phone from her grasp. "Believe me, you haven't tasted Chinese food until you've ordered from Bejing's. They're General Tso's Chicken is terrific, and the best thing is... they deliver."

Connie watched amusedly as Matt dialed the phone number. "Sounds good to me."

Part Four

As he walked through the sparsely populated hallway, all he attended to was the sound of his own footsteps. His winter boots had carried some mud and moisture from his long walks throughout Langstrum Alps, and now that moisture created a squeaking sound when his feet rubbed against the smooth tiles of the Langstrum Alps International Airport.

For the most part, the intercoms were quiet, and only a fraction of the heavy traffic that usually filled the large airport was present. That was because the majority of flights leaving or arriving were canceled due to the invasion. Inclement weather is still a problem in many areas, especially in places that weren't prepared for heavy snowfall. Still, there were some flights daring to take to the skies, for the most part bringing families together to cope with the aftermath of the tragic Nightfall.

While he watched people entering from a gate, rushing into the warm embraces of loved ones, Keith couldn't help but realize that no such solace awaited him. No tender hug would make his problems melt.

There was no healing from this wound.

He watched families reunite from the shadow of his own guilt. It was a blanket of guilt, stemming from so many places. There was so much to be guilty for. So many reasons to be depressed.

Just a few short hours ago, his life was perfect. True, he had a tenuous relationship with his father, and yes, he had the regular battles against evil... but they just added a bit of spice to his life.

Now, his life was so bleak he couldn't even think of a single reason to smile.

Keith finally tore his reddened eyes from the reunion scene at a nearby gate, and took a seat on the cushioned seats near Gate 13. For a moment, he stared at the seat next to him. Then, he pulled his hand from his jacket pocket, and gently ran his fingers along the vinyl.

Just hours ago, he was sitting at this very seat waiting for his family to arrive to celebrate his 21st birthday. And sitting beside him was the woman he loved. The woman he couldn't picture his life without.

The woman that died to save Earth.

He leaned back in his own seat, keeping his hand on the neighboring chair. He could almost make himself believe that she was still sitting beside him, holding his hand gently and assuring him that things would work out.

Still, he knew it was over. That time in his life where one woman's touch made everything better. That time where he let himself believe that the future was full of bright possibilities, in which the guilty suffered and the innocent were spared.

It was all delusions. Life wasn't fair. The guilty laugh mockingly during their bloody victory. The innocent spill their blood on the floor.

He let his body go limp, leaning his entire weight upon the back of his seat. The last time he sat at this seat was the last time he really saw Tamara. True, after they had met the Maloy family at the gate, they had fought the Shiva creature, but that wasn't the same.

That was the Yellow Enforcer. The fighter. The defender.

At the airport, it was simply Tamara Fox: the bright-eyed theater arts student with a smile that could melt ice.

They sat at the airport for half an hour. At some points, they sat in silence. At others, they talked about insignificant things. At yet others, they talked about deeper concerns. Still, they were together.

Keith would always remember that airport as the last time he saw his love. Certainly many lovers parted in that airport. And many lovers were united in that airport.

But he would never be reunited with Tamara. She was forever out of his reach, and no airplane could bridge the distance.

He hadn't slept in the two days. His every waking moment... which was every moment... was spent in deep thought on both Tamara and his father. Still, while his father's condition had concerned him greatly earlier, the doctors had concluded that his condition was very stable. Stephen Maloy III would make a full recovery.

Keith had a second chance. He had the opportunity to mend the tears in his relationship with his father. How petty and childish their arguments were! Hopefully, this tragedy affected Stephen as well. Now, both Maloy men could put aside their pig-headedness, and be civil to one another. Perhaps, they could forgive one another completely of all past wrongs, whether genuine or imagined.

Perhaps they could genuinely and unconditionally love one another.

Perhaps, although neither would have admitted it... they always had.

But he only had a second chance with his father. He would never have another chance with Tamara.

He desperately wanted another chance with Tamara... even if it were only a few moments.

The last few moments they were together, Keith was so concerned with the battle and his father to pay her any attention. She wrapped her arm around his, trying to comfort him, and he turned her away.

He sealed himself off from her affections when he needed them the most. And now, he would never have that affection again.

What would he do with himself now?

First, Keith tried to think of the positive. He was so near graduation, which would truly herald the beginning of his life. His family was alive and well, and perhaps a little more closely knit. He had the friendship and support of the rest of the Spectrum Force... which included friends he had trusted his life with.

But, that couldn't balance out the loss. He'd lost Tamara... but that was only the tip of the iceberg.

He'd lost faith in himself and his ability to make a difference.

He'd lost hope.

During the Nightfall, all he could do was seethe as his entire planet slowly froze over. Once the Shiva attacked, he was at least provided with a little distraction. Still, that battle was completely insignificant. Would it matter that they destroyed the river monster if their entire planet was destroyed?

No. That battle didn't matter. None of them did. The Spectrum Force kept on fighting, kept on facing the forces of Acheron and Phaedra. But with every defeat, the Denebians got stronger. They pulled in new resources. They weaved more powerful spells. Their tricks became more diabolical as they targeted the loved ones of the Spectrum Force.

And the Force? Nothing really changed. They didn't get stronger. They tried to learn from their mistakes, but they never managed to deliver a real blow to the Denebian Empire. And how could they? How could they defeat an enemy consisting of millions of soldiers and magical creatures, all willing to die in battle in the service of their ruling family? Even if they did somehow manage to kill Acheron and Phaedra, Celea remained. And if Celea died, surely there were other members of the royal household that would strike back... with a vengeance.

Not that any of that would happen. Killing the monarchy had never seemed to be an option. Why? The Spectrum Force was a team of defenders. They didn't attack the Denebians. They didn't have a chance of success if they did.

There was no grand victory. The Spectrum Force only delayed the inevitable. How could six humans, a mutant, and a single sorceress possibly defeat and entire species of warriors?

They couldn't. Not a chance. Not a prayer.

And without that faith... that belief that he could make a difference... what did he have?

How could he defend the entire planet if he didn't believe he could succeed?

The answer was simple... he couldn't.

He couldn't save the world. He couldn't even save Tamara.

He shivered, his body contracting as he hugged his legs to his chest. He hated feeling weak. He hated feeling vulnerable.

He hated being useless.

Keith pursed his lips together tightly, forcing his legs to be steady as he rose to his feet. Tears stinging his eyes, he thrust his hands into his jacket pocket once again, and abandoned his seat at Gate 13.

He knew he needed time. Time to come to grips with everything that happened. Time to reconcile himself to a future without Tamara. Time to figure out what he'd do with his life now. Time to think.

And he couldn't do it here.

He continued walking, marching somberly through the halls, until he reached the ticket office. For once, there wasn't too much of a line, as many didn't want to risk flying given the lingering affects of the Nightfall.

Keith was ready to risk it.

He stopped at a desk, where a young woman smiled at him. "Welcome to the Continental Airlines ticket office. How can I help you?"

Keith leaned on the desk, fishing for his wallet. "When's your next flight to Austin, Texas?"

He needed time to think. And he couldn't do it here.

Part Five

Jocelyn's heavy eyelids sprang open as the loud bang of the front door slamming abruptly forced her from her much-needed slumber. She blinked in confusion, pulling herself into a sitting position on the couch.

She stared in bewilderment when she saw Craig open his eyes as well, groaning slightly from the rude awakening.

"What's going on?" she whispered, rubbing her eyes. She was still startled that she had managed to fall asleep.

Jocelyn got her answer when Rachel stormed out of her bedroom, carrying her jacket to the coat stand near the door. Her movements were abrupt, and even from a distance Jocelyn could see the tears that still streaked down her roommate's cheeks.

"Ray?" Jocelyn asked, rising to her feet, "Are you...?"

"I'm fine," Rachel interrupted, pausing for a moment to lay her weary fingers on her forehead, "Just fine."

Both Craig and Jocelyn watched in amazement as Rachel then proceeded into her room. She reached to close the door behind her, but she paused for a moment, and turned back to her friends.

"If Chris comes looking for me, tell him I have nothing to say to him," she requested, before closing the door behind her.

Jocelyn and Craig traded confused glances. Craig's surprise quickly turned into anger, and his lips curled into a frown.

"If he did

anything to her..." he muttered.

"Don't jump to conclusions," Jocelyn warned, walking towards Rachel's bedroom door, "We don't know what happened yet."

Just as Jocelyn raised her knuckles to the locked door, a soft knock echoed from the front door.

Craig quickly rose to his feet, stretching out his neck and arms from the awkward position in which he fell asleep. "I'll get it."

Craig pulled the door open, and glared down at Chris, who couldn't help but swallow hard at the imposing figure Craig made.

"I... take it Rachel told you what happened?" he said quietly.

"She didn't have to," Craig muttered, folding his arms, "She said she doesn't want to see you, and that's enough for me."

Chris nodded his head slowly, pursing his lips. "Well, I guess that's fair enough-"

"Just a minute, Chris," Jocelyn called, squeezing past Craig and grabbing Chris' arm before he could depart, "Look, guys, the last thing we need right now is animosity. We're all friends here. And at a time like this, friendship is really all we have."

With that, Jocelyn gently shoved Craig out of the doorway, and guided Chris to the couch. "None of us should be alone right now," she affirmed, walking to the kitchenette, "Can I get you anything, Chris?"

Chris leaned forward, casting a single glance at Rachel's bedroom door. He then shook his head, and rose to his feet. "No, he's right Jocelyn. I feel a little awkward being here, considering I know I'm not welcome here."

"Chris," Jocelyn sighed, "don't be silly-"

"Rachel and I had a little... disagreement, and I was hoping we could clear it up now. But it's a very stressful time, and we all have things to deal with. I'll talk to her later... when she actually wants to talk to me."

As Chris moved towards the door, without warning a psionic call burst through everyone's consciousness. *Everyone, meet me at the girls' apartment pronto. I have something to say, and you all need to be there.*

Chris, Jocelyn, and Craig all froze in response to the message. Jocelyn ran her fingers through her auburn curls, and took a seat at the nearest kitchen stool.

"That... that was Keith," she whispered, gazing at Craig and Chris in concern.

"His psi-voice was so... bland," Chris commented, once again taking a seat on the couch, "I hope he's feeling better."

Then, everyone heard the sound of a door unlocking, and all eyes fell on Rachel's door. Moments later, the leader of the Spectrum Force stepped out of her room... a concerned frown marring her brow.

Immediately, Chris stood up from his seat, and fixed Rachel with an inquisitive expression. Rachel didn't pay him a second glance.

"Does anyone know where Matthew went?" she inquired, scanning the living room quickly.

"I thought he went looking for Keith," Craig answered, "but he's been gone for a couple hours."

At that moment, the front door swung open, revealing a very worried Matthew.

"Is Keith here yet?" Matt inquired, looking around.

"Where were you?" Jocelyn asked.

Matt shrugged his shoulders. "I was-"

Matthew stopped short when he heard footsteps behind him. Keith lumbered into the room, casting a flat smile at all his friends before closing and locking the door behind him.

"Keith, where have you?"

"Are you...?"

"What's going on...?"

Keith raised his hand, silently asking the inquiry to pause for a moment. In silence, the rest of the Spectrum Force all took seats, while Keith paced around the room, his hands still buried in his pockets.

"I know everyone's been worried about me," he started, "and I appreciate your concern. I'm sorry I've been so distant, but... a lot happened. True, a lot happened to all of us, but in my case... I really needed to be alone to sort through my feelings."

"Keith, you know

we're all here for you," Jocelyn whispered.

Keith smiled in gratitude. "I know you are. But... I'm afraid that won't be enough."

He walked over to the window, gazing out over the city, bustling with renewed life in the late afternoon.

"I've combed the entire city. I went to the river, the hospital, the airport... everywhere. And all that time, I've been thinking. My life has changed too much for me to just go back to routine and pretend the Nightfall never happened. I... I can't just put it behind me." He drew a deep breath, leaning against the windowsill while gazing at the assembled heroes before him. "I feel like I'm standing in front of a huge wall blocking my path, and I can't find a way to move passed it. So, the only option I can think of is to try a new path, and see where it takes me."

Craig wrinkled his nose. "You're being a little vague, Man," he pointed out, "Just come out and say it... whatever it is you're building up to. We're all friends here, and you can be open and honest with us."

Keith couldn't help but smile. "One of these days, Craig, you're going to make a great psychiatrist."

Craig grinned widely at the compliment.

"Okay," Keith said, taking a breath, "I'll come right out and say it. After a whole lot of thought, I've come to the conclusion that I'm lost. I don't know where my life is heading, and after the Nightfall, it looks bleak. I think I've come face to face with grim reality. This battle we're fighting- to save the world from the Denebian Empire- well, I don't think it's a battle we can win-"

"Keith," Rachel interrupted, rising to her feet, "don't think

that way! I know we're facing terrible odds, but if we don't have faith in ourselves, and our abilities, we have nothing. Confidence is a warriors best weapon."

"You're absolutely right," Keith said, stepping closer to his long-time friend, "A Spectrum Enforcer without confidence is nothing. And I can't just re-light the fire that died in me. It's not in my power to do it. I just know I'll never be the same. I can't fool myself into thinking that everything will be okay. That we'll win this war, and there won't be any battle scars. That this invasion will some day be a distant memory."

"I'm not saying there won't be scars, Keith," Rachel whispered, fear widening her eyes, "but we can't just give up."

"That's just the problem," Keith said, taking Rachel's right hand with his, allowing the light from the window to shine in the purple stone on her finger. "You see, Ray, you never give up. You face your problems. You believe you can make a difference. That's why Spectra gave you this."

He then rotated their hands, so his would be in clear view. Rachel, as well as the other Enforcers, gasped when they saw the red stone was nowhere on his hand.

"In my case... I think I've given up," Keith admitted weakly, "I can't be a part of this team."

"Keith, wait," Matt blurted, rising to his feet. In instant reaction, the rest of the group congregated around Keith and Rachel, with Keith still holding Rachel's hand.

"I'm not saying it's permanent," he continued, "but I've got a lot of thinking to do. A lot to heal from. And until I come to grips with all I've lost, I can't serve as the Red Enforcer."

"You don't have to do this," Jocelyn whispered, tears streaking down her cheek, "We're all hurting, Keith... you more than the rest of us, but this is a pain we're sharing. You can't leave us now!"

"I have other responsibilities," Keith explained, "I know there's someone out there with the right stuff to be the Red Enforcer. But I'm the only one who can fill my role in my family. I almost lost my father. I've been given a second chance. I belong with my family. I don't belong here."

With that, Keith dug his left hand into his pocket, and pulled out his ring. He held Rachel's hand open, and laid the ring in her palm.

"It seems like a lifetime ago, when you ran over to us on the beach, and we were attacked by Shadows," he said, "You gave me this ring, saying that I was a good fighter, and a dependable friend. You thought I was perfect to be the second-in-command of the Spectrum Force. I'm sorry, Ray... but you were wrong. I can't fight a battle I'm convinced I can't win, and I'm not very dependable. I've always been a loose cannon. And now, I don't even have a fighter's spirit."

He folded her fingers over the ring, and clasped his hands over hers. "Choose someone else."

With that, he let go of Rachel's hand, and stepped back so he could face the group. "I'm going back to Austin," he announced, "My flight leaves tonight, actually."

"Tonight?" Chris asked in amazement, "You're being very hasty here."

"No," Keith answered, "I'm not. I'm going home... to a place where I can leave this all behind me. My dad will be released from the hospital soon. He's made an almost miraculous recovery, and considering how many were injured during the Nightfall, the hospital can't keep him much longer. My family will be coming in a few days. I just need... to get away."

Keith swallowed hard, and walked towards the door. "I can't make you understand, but I have

to do this. I have to sort things out. I'm sorry."

The five remaining members of the Spectrum Force watched mutely as Keith walked through the door. He waved once, and then closed it behind him, slowly making his way down the hall to the elevator.

He didn't look back.

To Be Concluded In...

The Spectrum Force:

Flashback

Excerpt from The Spectrum Force: Flashback

"Is this the place?" the driver asked, craning his head back to his passenger.

"Yeah, this is it," the passenger responded, fishing through his leather wallet, "Thanks a lot."

"Nice house," the driver added, counting the money the young man left in his hand, "Ain't this where that guy from M.E.C. lives?"

The passenger cracked a small smile as he slid along the torn seat. "Yeah, this is the place. Keep the change, Sir."

The driver tipped his hat in response. "Ya need help with your stuff?"

"No, thank you."

The young man stepped out of the yellow cab and made his way to the trunk. He unlatched the trunk, and pulled out the backpack and a single dufflebag that it contained. He then stepped to the sidewalk, and watched as the cab drove into the distance.

The arid Texas winds wove through his honey-blonde hair as he made his way to the gate of the large ranch. Covering several acres, the bountiful and luxurious property was certainly quick to catch the eye of any visitor to the area. It was well known with the local community for being the home of Stephen Maloy III, the founder and chief executive officer of M.E.C., the Maloy Engineering Corporation. The sound of horses racing through soft turf and lawnmowers grinding the healthy yard greeted the young man, who had been absent from the estate for several months. The scent of fresh-cut grass and fragrant flowers filled the air, and the hot sun beat upon the Earth from its hovering station.

"There's no place like home," Keith whispered to himself, sliding his sunglasses off his eyes once he reached the gate on the driveway. He stopped at the intercom, and quickly pushed in the access code. A loud buzz signaled his permission to enter as the heavy metal grid slid open, revealing the long asphalt driveway leading to the large mansion. Keith balanced his backpack more comfortably on his shoulders, and began his long trek to the front door.

Everything looked the same, despite his long absence. Not even the frigid cold that blanketed the city during the infamous Nightfall seemed to have any lasting effects upon the property. In the distance, past the lush green yard, were the stables, where several healthy horses were kept. The sound of hooves crushing the dust and grass beneath them brought the memory of his eighth birthday to mind, when he first got a pony all his own. Learning to ride was extremely taxing for him, and the fact that his younger sister mastered the art of controlling the beast long before him only made matters worse.

He was never patient enough for horseback riding. He couldn't create a bond with Blaze, his pony during his youth, or any of the other horses on the property. Not long after he had first begun to learn how to ride Blaze, the pony became extremely aggressive towards him, refusing to let him mount.

Why was it that every time he came home, it was the bad memories that always struck him? Perhaps that contributed to his long absence.

Things were different now, though. Even though the place called "home" harbored some bad experiences, compared to his most recent nightmare it was a sacred haven.

At least no one died here.

"Keith?" called a heavily accented voice, "Is that you?"

Keith's attention turned to the source of the voice, and habitually smiled as a tall, full-figured middle-aged woman raced to him. She was quick to embrace him tightly, her long chestnut hair pouring over his shoulders.

"Mari," he greeted, as the woman released him, "How are you?"

Keith locked eyes with Marisol Vera for a moment, realizing quickly that her rich dark eyes were moist with tears. She had worked in the Maloy household for as long as Keith could remember, taking care of the horses as well as the children on occasion. Marisol was like a second mother to him, and as he gazed at her for the first time in over six months, he realized how much he had missed her.

"You never call, you never write," she chided, sniffling slightly, "Dios mio

, I think you've gotten taller!"

Keith chuckled weakly. "I doubt it."

"So, chiquito

, how are you?" she asked earnestly, quickly taking Keith's larger bag from his grip and taking his hand, "How is your father?"

"Better," he said, as they stepped into the large ranch, "He's been in the hospital three days now, and when I left L.A., they said he'd made incredible progress. In fact, they're thinking of releasing him soon."

"It's a miracle," she whispered, dropping Keith's bag at the entrance to the kitchen. She motioned the young man to take a seat at the counter, and she quickly sifted through the refrigerator. "How about some peanut butter and bananas on lightly toasted wheat bread, and pink lemonade on ice?" she offered.

Keith grinned, freeing his shoulders from the weight of his backpack and leaning his elbows on the spotless countertop. "How could I turn down my favorite snack, Mari?"

Marisol busily prepared the food as she hurriedly informed the young man about what had been going on. "It was so horrifying when the sun went black," she recapped, lying her hand on her chest, "I thought the Final Judgement Day had come!"

"God had nothing to do with that nightmare," Keith said in a low voice, "Did you see the news reports?"

"Si!

I was so worried when I learned that aliens invaded Langstrum Alps! And when your madre called, and told me what happened to Stephen, I was so stunned! One would never think such a horror could happen."

Keith swallowed, staring at the condensation on his glass of lemonade. He brushed his thumb along the glass, moistening his hand with the water and then rubbing his fingers together. "Well, I certainly wasn't ready for it."

Marisol sat the sandwich in front of Keith, and laid her hand on his shoulder. "And Monica told me about Tamara, also."

Keith stopped breathing for a moment.

"Don't give up hope, chiquito

. I understand she is missing, but she may very well still be alive. Have a little bit of faith."

Keith closed his cerulean eyes tightly, shaking his head slightly. "It... it's not like that," Keith explained weakly, "She's dead

. Gone. She's not coming back to me."

Marisol kissed the young man's forehead. "Have a little bit of faith," she repeated, stepping away from the counter. "Here, let me take your bags upstairs. Monica wanted us to call her at the hotel once you arrived, to make sure you got back safely."

Keith instinctively reached into his pocket and pulled out his small cellular phone. Yet, before he could press a button, Marisol tossed a balled-up paper towel at him, instantly getting his fleeting attention.

"You realize the cellular phone costs three times as much as the house phone, don't you?" she scolded, shaking her head in disbelief, "I hope you're more responsible than that."

Responsible. It's funny how that word could have such different connotations.

"Believe me, Mari," Keith said in a low voice, lying his phone on the countertop, "I'm definitely responsible. For a lot of things."

Marisol gazed at Keith for a moment, clearly confused by his cryptic reply. She shook her head in dismay, leaning against the wall and folding her arms. "I'll call your mother," she assured him, "Finish your snack, and get some rest. You need it."

Keith watched Marisol leave the kitchen, and then cast his blank gaze to the sandwich and glass seated before him. Any appetite he may have had previously was washed away as a very familiar feeling seeped into his gut, leaving room for nothing else.

It was the guilt. It was always the guilt.

Guilt for specific errors. Guilt for much more diffuse, general shortcomings.

Guilt for not being an obedient son. For not being a reliable friend. For not being an adequate super-hero. For not being a compassionate boyfriend.

Basically, for not being anything

worth mentioning.

He wanted to escape the guilt. The emptiness. He wanted to turn his back on his friends... to shirk his responsibilities as the Red Enforcer. But he realized almost immediately after he purchased the tickets that it didn't help. In fact, it only made the guilt worse.

Not only was he disobedient, unreliable, inadequate, and egocentric. Now, he was a coward too.

"I've got to sort things out," he convinced himself, "I needed the break. I have a lot to deal with now. I lost Tammy... and I almost lost my father. I have a responsibility to my family, and that can't be fulfilled by anyone other than me. But anyone can wear that ring."

Was that really true? Was it really that easy to release himself from the burden?

No, it wasn't. And he couldn't let that go, as his right index finger felt so naked without the silver band and red crystal he had grown accustomed to wearing.

With a heavy sigh, Keith rose from the stool upon which he was planted, and walked out of the kitchen. Wearily, he made his way up the large carpeted staircase to the second floor.

He pushed open the door, and stood at the threshold of his bedroom.

A numb smile crossed his lips as he absorbed the overall simplicity of the room. His bed was perfectly made, and the room was in infallible order. Of course, no one has lived in this room for quite some time. A comfortable blue plaid bedspread hung over the full sized bed, which was placed between two nightstands, each beneath a window. The shades were closed, but still the powerful afternoon sun crushed the darkness through the narrow space between the shade and the edge of the window. Atop the nightstands sat a lamp, a digital clock, and a box filled with CDs. The majority of his music collection was in his apartment, but the ones that he had gotten tired of remained at home, here in a cardboard box. On his dresser sat various trophies and awards for karate tournaments, sitting proudly in a row with the tallest ones furthest from the center.

Keith relaxed the urge to knock those trophies from his sight. He knew he didn't deserve them.

He laid upon his bed, staring at the white walls of his room. He still had some posters decorating the planes, of sports heroes as well as action stars. They were his heroes throughout his youth, but the thought of them offered no comfort. They were all successes. He was a failure.

"There's no peace anywhere," he moaned, pulling himself into a sitting position. He lowered his head, and thrust his balled fists into the soft mattress. "I've gotta clear my mind."

After the decision was made, Keith rose from his bed, and began rummaging through his cardboard box of CDs. Although the majority of his collection was in his L.A. apartment, he was sure he'd find something suitable.

After a few moments, he blindly pulled out a CD. His breath caught in his throat as he examined the jacket.

"Holy..." he whispered, staring at the soundtrack. He blinked in absolute astonishment at the rare find, which instantly sparked a cherished memory.

The irony of the situation struck him like a slap in the face. There he was, trying so desperately to leave Langstrum Alps behind him, and suddenly he was faced with something that he hadn't seen in months, that he would never forget.

In silence, he pulled out the silver disc, and took a seat on the edge of his bed. As he gazed at his own reflection in the metal, his mind drifted to another time.

It was the Halloween of his junior year, about eighteen months ago...

Character Thesaurus

You wanted to learn more about the Spectrum Force, their mentors and the enemies they fight? Read on and you shall find information on these characters and more!

The Spectrum Force

Rachel Castaneda - The Purple Enforcer

Full Name:

Rachel Castenda
Enforcer Designation:

Purple Enforcer
Age:

21
Date of Birth:

February 24, 1978
Height:

5'8"
Hair:

Brown
Eyes:

Brown
Year in College:

Senior
Concentration:

Legal Studies
Hometown:

Miami, Florida
Vital Traits:

Practices kick-boxing; active in various university organizations; studious; very private; fluent in Spanish.

Keith Maloy - The Red Enforcer

Full Name:

Keith Maloy
Enforcer Designation:

The Red Enforcer
Age:

21
Date of Birth:

July 11, 1978
Height:

6'1"
Hair:

Blonde
Eyes:

Blue
Year in College:

Senior
Concentration:

Business Management
Hometown:

Houston, Texas
Vital Traits:

Achieved black-belt level in karate; enjoys water sports; mostly light-hearted and energetic; proficient in Japanese.

Craig Gillis - The Blue Enforcer

Full Name:

Craig Gillis
Enforcer Designation:

The Blue Enforcer
Age:

21
Date of Birth:

December 17, 1978
Height:

6'3"
Hair:

Black
Eyes:

Brown
Year in College:

Junior
Concentration:

Psychology
Hometown:

New York City, New York
Vital Traits:

Member of Dreiser University Varsity Basketball team; all-around athlete; often clownish; enjoys mostly laid-back lifestyle.

Jocelyn Armand - The Orange Enforcer

Full Name:

Jocelyn Armand
Enforcer Designation:

The Orange Enforcer
Age:

17
Date of Birth:

November 9, 1982
Height:

5'2"
Hair:

Light Brown
Eyes:

Hazel
Year in College:

Freshman
Concentration:

Undecided
Hometown:

San Francisco, California
Vital Traits:

Extremely intelligent, with excellent memory and problem-solving skills; participates in intramural beach volleyball and Dreiser University Women's Swim Team.

Matthew O'Conner - The Green Enforcer

Full Name:

Matthew O'Conner
Enforcer Designation:

The Green Enforcer
Age:

18
Date of Birth:

August 25, 1981
Height:

5'8"
Hair:

Copper Brown
Eyes:

Green
Year in College:

Freshman
Concentration:

Biology (Pre-Med)

Hometown:

Greenwich, Connecticut
Vital Traits:

Tends to be impatient and often sarcastic; volatile temper; sensitive.

Tamara Fox - The Yellow Enforcer

Full Name:

Tamara Fox
Enforcer Designation:

The Yellow Enforcer
Age:

19
Date of Birth:

April 21, 1980
Height:

5'5"
Hair:

Black
Eyes:

Brown
Year in College:

Sophomore
Concentration:

Theater Arts
Hometown:

Savannah, Georgia
Vital Traits:

Highly energetic, optimistic, and creative; athletic (particularly jogging and softball)

; artistic (sculpting, singing, dancing, and composing)

.

Mentors and Allies to the Spectrum Force

Spectra - Mentor to the Spectrum Force

Full Name:

Spectra
Designation:

Mentor to the Spectrum Force
Age:

Unknown
Date of Birth:

Unknown
Height:

5'8"
Hair:

Black with red highlights
Eyes:

Brown
Homeplanet:

Lumina City, Fesp
Vital Traits:

Determined to help the Spectrum Force complete their task in protecting the Earth, Spectra herself was once a member of her own Spectrum Force when she lived on Fesp.

Gaius – Mentor to Spectra and the Spectrum Force

Full Name:

Gaius
Designation:

Mentor to Spectra and the Spectrum Force
Age:

Unknown
Date of Birth:

Unknown
Height:

5’10”
Hair:

White
Eyes:

Brown
Homeplanet:

Lumina City, Fesp
Vital Traits:

He was the mentor of the original Spectrum Force. Passing his knowledge onto Spectra, he was on his way to returning to help her with this new generation of Spectrum Force when Phaedra struck him done with a virus called the Blight. Currently, he is in the care of Spectra and the Spectrum Force and has yet to awaken.

Luminus – Guardian of the Gateway Between Worlds

Full Name:

Luminus
Designation:

Guardian of the Gateway Between Worlds
Age:

Unknown
Date of Birth:

Unknown
Height:

5’12”
Hair:

White
Eyes:

Brown
Homeplanet:

Unknown
<font_bold>Vital Traits: Not much is known about Luminus at all. All that is known is that he guards the Gateway the divides different Worlds.

Chris Greyson - Friend of the Spectrum Force

Full Name:

Chris Greyson
Designation:

Friend of the Spectrum Force
Age:

19
Date of Birth:

December 25, 1978
Height:

6'2"
Hair:

Black
Eyes:

Green
Hometown:

Miami, Florida
Vital Traits:

Polite manner, has the ability of telepathy, determined personality.

Villains of the Spectrum Force

Phaedra - Empress of Denebia

Full Name:

Phaedra
Designation:

Empress of Denebia
Age:

Unknown
Date of Birth:

Unknown
Height:

5'8"
Hair:

Blonde
Eyes:

Brown
Homeplanet:

Denebia
Vital Traits:

Determined to take over the Earth, Phaedra is empress of the planet Denebia. Violent and Deadly when she is angered, she is truly dangerous to approach one on one.

Celea – Princess of Denebia

Full Name:

Celea
Age:

Unknown
Date of Birth:

Unknown
Height:

5’6”
Hair:

Black
Eyes:

Brown
Homeplanet:

Denebia
Vital Traits:

Celea is Phaedra’s daughter. She is spoiled and when she doesn’t get her own way she is known to fly into severe temper tantrums. She was raised to be a warrior which she uses those skills to their fullest when fighting her enemies.


Acheron - Emperor of Denebia

Full Name:

Acheron
Age:

Unknown
Date of Birth:

Unknown
Height:

6'2"
Hair:

Black with Red Highlights
Eyes:

White with Black pupils
Homeplanet:

Denebia
Vital Traits:

Acheron is the Emperor of Denebia and one not to be trifled with. He is the husband of Phaedra, Empress of Denebia and father of Celea, Princess of Denebia. When he sets his sights on what he wants, he is known to not give up easily until he wins.

About the Author

Heather Ray lives in Logansport, Indiana where she enjoys spending time with family and friends. In her spare time when she isn't reading, writing, going to school at the local college of Ivy Tech Community College or working on various art projects, she enjoys swimming and playing basketball with the Special Olympics, watching movies with her god daughter, Lucy, (who happens to be the reason why Heather decided to transfer the fanfiction that she originally wrote this and other book series' into books!)

, acting with the local theater troupe in her hometown, singing, and working on her voice over work.

Her favorite book series includes The House of Night, Peter and the Starcatchers, Daughters of the Moon, The Nick Chronicles

(among other Dark Hunters books!)

, the Chronicles of Narnia, The Lord of the Rings Book Series, the Harry Potter series, the Sookie Stackhouse series

, and she is also a bit of a comics 'nerd'

with her love for X-Men, Batman, Avengers,

just to name a few of her favorite comics. She also enjoys reading several mangas which include Chobits, Ceres Celestial Legend, Vampire Knight,

and Sailor Moon

!

Not only does she enjoy reading, as is stated above, she also loves watching movies and various TV Shows. Her favorite TV Shows include True Blood, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel

, all the seasons of Power Rangers, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Doctor Who

and Once Upon a Time

. Her favorite movies include all the Star Wars

movies, all the Star Trek

movies, the Lord of the Rings

trilogy (she is really looking forward to see The Hobbit

soon!)

, all the Marvel Comics

movies, the Chronicles of Narnia

movies and all the Harry Potter

movies! She also enjoys several animes including Chobits, Ceres Celestial Legend, Rosario Vampire, Vampire Knight,

and her favorite: Sailor Moon

(she is a bit obsessed with Sailor Moon what with not only enjoying the anime but also the live action series from Japan, and the musical series: Sera Myu

! She also cannot wait for the new anime series of Sailor Moon that is due out in a year!)

When she isn't at home writing or spending time with her friends and family, Heather can be found going around her home town (where she picked up a lot of her ideas for these books)

or at her local library, picking up new ideas for her next book!

Impressum

Tag der Veröffentlichung: 28.07.2012

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