Author's Note: It's been a while since I've had the inspiration and time for writing, but getting into a new fandom with weekly episode doses definitely helps. Here's a little something that's been on my mind for a while. Please enjoy!

In Memory

Chapter 1

Sinking into her chair with a heavy sigh, Kendall toed off her shoes under the safe cover of her worktable and booted up her computer. Behind her, Keeper watched in silence as she cracked her knuckles and began keying in the data from their latest hunt for the silver Energem, muttering to herself every now and then.

"Do not be discouraged," the ancient alien said after a while. "You have made great progress in your search for the Energems. I have faith that you will find the rest before they fall into Sledge's hands."

Kendall sighed again and leaned back against the cushioned backrest, her eyes never leaving the display as she reached up to rub at her temples. "I know that, but I'm getting worried. Sledge has been sending more and more monsters after us lately, and I can't help but think he's trying to distract us."

With the increased frequency of attacks, it became harder for the rangers to find time to investigate any leads on the remaining Energems. Their hands were full from dealing with the constant threat to the city, and the only way they could continue the search was to leave it to Kendall and Keeper. That, of course, meant that the young scientist could no longer monitor their battles whenever they were called out, a compromise which unsettled her greatly. Despite her somewhat cold attitude towards them, she was still their mentor and they were her responsibility.

A gentle hand squeezed her shoulder, and Kendall turned to see Keeper smiling calmly at her. "The rangers will be fine," he assured, sensing her concern. "I am sure they will all return safely."

As if on cue, the sound of soft chatter and cloth sliding on metal reached their ears. Letting out a quiet breath of relief, Kendall moved to greet them but frowned as her sharp eyes scanned the group of exhausted rangers that had just entered the Dinolair. "Where's Riley?" she asked.

Puzzled looks were exchanged, and something in Chase's chest gave a painful squeeze at the name even though there was genuine confusion in his voice when he finally answered on the team's behalf.

"Who's Riley?"

Author's Note: Come find me on tumblr if you wanna chat :)