CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE
AJ
The Dino Charge team had teleported to the location of Dawn's phone together. It was about eighty miles outside of Amber Beach. Kendall looked horrified as she spotted the discarded cell phone in the parking lot next to a set of car keys. She clicked the alarm and a car beeped a few feet away.

"This is Dawn's car," she said softly. "It's still locked, and it looks like everything is still inside..." She was trembling as she unlocked the car and touched the golden sun charm dangling from the mirror. "I gave this to her before she left for school so she'd always have sunshine, even when the skies were dark. Dawn has found the sun comforting ever since she was a little girl..."

"Kendall..." Prince Phillip began gently, obviously concerned by how upset she'd become. It wasn't like Kendall to show emotion. He sighed before putting a comforting hand on her shoulder. "We will get her back," he vowed.

"I need to call my father and let him know she was abducted, but he will want to call in the police, and they can't help..."

"We can't be sure it was the Guild," Tyler said. "It could have been someone else. Maybe we should call the police."

AJ noticed something then. She bent down and scooped up a discarded bottle. "This looks like one of Bailey's potions," she said. "He must have left it behind after they took her."

"She's right," Chase said as he examined the potion. He took it out of AJ's hands, probably worried it might be dangerous to her. "The Guild was here. Jezzeff has Dawn. We can't involve the police in this."

"Excuse me," Kendall said before rapidly walking away.

"Kendall, wait!" Tyler called.

"Let her go," Trerry said. "She needs a few minutes to process this."

"I will follow at a distance to ensure she remains safe," Ivan volunteered.

"I'll go with you," Phillip added. They walked in the direction Kendall had fled toward.

"What should we do while they're gone?" Ben asked.

"Food?" Koda asked hopefully, eyeing the rest stop's cafe.

"Time to feed the caveman," Jeanie quipped with a smile.

AJ, Koda, Chase, Tyler, Trerry, Ben, and Jeanie headed into the rest stop and ordered food because they knew they'd need their strength soon if they were going to try to save Dawn. Koda lost himself in the joy of eating a burger while AJ ate a protein bar and an apple. Afterward, she wandered back outside, feeling the need for air.

She walked over to some trees and tried to focus, pushing everything out of her mind. It was a technique she'd developed while training for gymnastics. She stretched her back out, pushing herself until her muscles begged her to stop. Then she practiced a couple of moves from her upcoming floor routine.

"What lovely technique you have," a man said.

AJ jumped and turned to look at him. She immediately realized he was Eltarian. "Who are you?" She demanded.

"That depends. Are you Alejandra Jewel Nieves?"

"AJ," she corrected him. "No one calls me Alejandra, not even at competitions."

"Forgive me, AJ." He smiled at her. "And forgive me for this as well."

Without further warning, he attacked her. He moved swiftly, but AJ dodged it, using a tumbling pass to put distance between them. He smirked before his arms began to glow with spirals of water. AJ watched this in confusion for a moment before he tried to attack again.

She jumped up, grabbing a tree branch and swinging from it, quickly building momentum as easily as if she were doing a bars routine at a competition. As she swung forward again, she kicked him in his head.

That was when she noticed strange spirals flowing over her arms like the air itself had manifested them. Startled, she released the branch, landing firmly on both feet.

At least I stuck the landing, she thought. Immediately, new spirals formed. These appeared to be made of dirt, and soon, vines appeared around her arms.

"What the hell is happening to me?" She demanded.

"You're awakening," the man said with a smile that lit up his eyes. "I thought I'd have to push you further to awaken both elements, but you adapt quickly."

"I don't understand..."

"I know, AJ... But you will." He paused, breathing deeply until his water spirals vanished. "You are younger than I imagined. I'm sorry for being so aggressive, but I had to be certain you were the one."

"The one what? Who are you?"

"Another wielder of our unique blessing. I am Ozzilandus of Eltar. You may call me Oz."

"Blessing?"

"We can't discuss it yet, but when the time is right, I will speak to you and Zayto alone."

"What does this have to do with Zayto? Are you a Power Ranger?"

He laughed. "No, certainly not. I don't think they generally give morphers to criminals."

AJ tensed, although she could think of at least a couple of Power Rangers with criminal pasts, including Jack, Z, and B'Danna. "What did you do?" She asked cautiously.

"That is a story for later. We're out of time. Go back to your friends, AJ. I will be in touch. Try and practice on your own."

"Practice what? I've never had any kind of magic before!"

"You'll figure it out. I have faith in you." He nodded at her before clapping three times and opening a portal made of water. Before AJ could ask him anything else, he vanished into it.

"AJ okay?" Koda asked as he approached her.

"I don't know," AJ admitted.

Koda gave her a tight hug, which was soothing, but she couldn't shake her concern. She didn't know what was going on or who could help her. She told Koda and Chase pretty much everything, but she wasn't sure if they could help her with magic. She decided she'd keep things to herself until she could ask Sage to help her figure out what was going on.

DAWN
She was having nightmares, which wasn't really all that surprising given her current situation. Still, she was terrified and couldn't seem to wake herself up.

She saw Zell as he attacked Daphne, once again seeing through her eyes. He was alternating between stabbing her and strangling her as Zordon was forced to watch. Everything in her was desperate to protect her son from the trauma, but there was nothing she could do.

She could feel everything he was doing, over and over. It kept repeating no matter how hard Dawn tried to snap herself out of it.

Your name is Dawn Kathleen Morgan, she reminded herself. This is Daphne's memory, not yours.

She still couldn't wake up. She felt like she was dying over and over again.

"Stop it!" Dawn shouted. "Wake up, Dawn... Wake up!"

This didn't work. Instead, she flashed back on the abuse Daphne had suffered at Zell's hands over the years. She relived every bruise, every cut, and every time she lied and blamed the injuries on her clumsiness because she was too scared to tell anyone the truth.

Suddenly, Lido appeared. He looked concerned as he spotted her, and he hurried toward her. He gently brushed some of Daphne's hair out of her face before stunning Dawn by grabbing onto her energy and pulling her out of Daphne's body.

The memory continued, but Dawn was no longer seeing it through Daphne's eyes. Instead, she stood in her own form. Lido eyed her curiously before he said, "You are another part of her, aren't you?"

Dawn flung herself into his arms, still too overwhelmed by what she'd experienced to speak but knowing that, more than anyone else, Lido would never harm her.

"It's alright," he said soothingly. "You are dreaming. You pulled me to you... Do you understand what's happening?"

"We... We shared sight," Dawn managed.

"Yes, but with my new training as a Shaman, I was able to split myself off because we are in the dream realm. What do you prefer to be called?"

"Dawn," she replied. "I'm Dawn."

"You're safe with me, Dawn."

"I know that. I remember now... I think I remember almost everything..." She shook her head. "I'm in danger, Lido. Jezz kidnapped me. He's keeping me in a house with him and Shelby. Can you find me?"

Lido's anger radiated from him, but he kept his tone calm as he spoke to her like she was a frightened bird. "I will find you. We must share sight while you are awake so I can see what is around you."

"I couldn't wake myself up... Daphne's memories overwhelmed me."

"It was like that for Andie at first, too. Don't worry. The worst of it will pass eventually and you'll learn to control it."

"You know the other parts of me?"

"Yes. I am quite close to Andie. I don't know Aiyana well, but I helped her once."

"Lido... I'm scared. Daphne trusted Jezz, but I don't."

"That's a good instinct. I'll find you, Dawn. I promise I will not stop until I do. I'm going to help you wake up now, and then I'll try to connect to you. I know we never figured out how to control it, but if you focus on me hard enough while you're scared, it should work."

She nodded, although she didn't want to leave the safety of his arms. Realistically, Lido was her best chance of getting out of Jezzeff's clutches. She had to be brave and try.

"I'm ready," she said.

He kissed the top of her head, calming her nerves before he sent her back.

Dawn opened her eyes. She wasn't alone in her bedroom, which immediately scared her. I hope this works, she thought. Lido, help me... Please...

She automatically jumped away from Jezzeff, who had been watching her sleep. "Shhh, Daphne," he said soothingly. "It's only me, sweet girl. I could never harm you."

She knew that was a lie, but she played along. "I'm sorry, Jezz," she replied. "You just startled me."

"My apologies. Tell me, what were you dreaming?"

She decided to mostly go with the truth. "I was remembering Zell, and everything he put me through," she admitted.

"Poor thing... Let me fix you up some tea."

"I'm not much of a tea drinker... I'm alright, Jezz."

"Would you prefer coffee?"

Yes, Dawn thought. She was dying for some coffee, but she didn't trust Jezzeff not to slip something into her drink. "Normally yes, but my nerves are shot," she replied. "Caffeine's probably a bad idea."

"I understand. Come downstairs when you're up to it."

"Jezz, wait... You mentioned we're in Angel Grove. Where, exactly, is that?"

"It's a lovely city with wonderful people, but Zell's hold on the people is strong. I can't let you explore it. It's far too dangerous."

"I understand... I just know nothing about the area. This house is very big. Are we in a fancy part of town, or are they all like this?"

"Angel Grove has affluent areas and less fortunate ones. This is the wealthiest part of town. I wanted my sanctuary to offer only the best."

She smiled. "It's beautiful. Shelby seems nice, too. I'm glad to have her company."

"I'm so pleased." He smiled. "She's preparing breakfast now. Join us when you're ready. I had Shelby pick out some clothes you might like. They're in the closet."

Jezzeff left her to dress in private. She took a deep breath and thought, Lido, I hope you heard all of that.

KELSEY
She wasn't sure where she was at first. Then, she noticed Dana, Chad, Ryan, and Joel sitting by her bed, which left her even more confused.

"Damnit! I got captured," Kelsey realized aloud.

"Kels..." Chad said softly. He looked like he might cry. Instead, he hugged her tightly.

It felt strange to have Chad's arms wrapped around her. She knew it should be extremely comforting, but she couldn't feel that. She pulled away in frustration.

"What do you want from me?" She snapped.

"We're here to help, Kelsey," Dana explained patiently.

"I don't need your help."

"We're here anyway," Joel insisted.

"Kelsey... Do you understand what happened to you?" Ryan asked.

"Jezz saved me. He brought me back from the dead and I am loyal to him," Kelsey recited automatically. That was suddenly the only thought in her mind.

"That's one mighty strong loyalty spell," Joel mumbled.

"Jezzeff turned you evil, Kelsey," Dana said, "but that's not who you really are."

"I am evil," Kelsey insisted.

"I've been where you are, Kelsey," Ryan said gently. "I was raised by evil and my loyalties were manipulated, but I changed."

"It's so not the same thing, Ryan," she replied. "It's not even close. You can't understand what I have become. Now let me go! I want to see Jezzeff!"

"I thought you might want to see someone else first, so I made a call," Dana said.

Angela Fairweather walked into the room. "Miss Fairweather? I'm not impressed," Kelsey said, rolling her eyes.

"I'm not the surprise, Kelsey... I just drove the person here," Angela replied. She motioned for someone else to come in.

Kelsey's breath caught in her chest as she spotted Nancy, just as it always did. "Nancy..." She whispered. She couldn't feel the love in her heart, but she knew it should be there. It had been there ever since the first time she saw Nancy, when Lightspeed Rescue was still an active team.

"It's true... You're really alive," Nancy said. She ran into Kelsey's arms and kissed her.

Kelsey couldn't feel love, but she could feel raw need, and she knew only one thing in that moment... She needed Nancy. She kissed her back, savoring the sensation of her wife's lips against her own. For the first time since she'd been resurrected, it truly felt like she could breathe.

Jezzeff still needs you, her mind screamed at her. He is your only focus!

You know what? Kelsey thought. Screw that. This is way better than working for Jezzeff.

It hurt to think such disloyal thoughts. Her heart felt like someone was squeezing it violently, but Kelsey didn't care. All she wanted in that moment was to keep kissing Nancy, whatever the cost.

When Nancy finally broke the kiss, Kelsey felt empty. Come back, she silently begged Nancy's lips.

"I missed you so much," Nancy said softly.

"I think I missed you, too," Kelsey admitted. "My feelings are all mixed up, and I have this obsessive thought in my head to serve Jezzeff... I'm loyal to him, but I don't think I want to be. It's confusing to be in my head right now."

"That's okay," Nancy replied. "We'll figure it out together."

"If you're here, where are the kids, Nancy?"

Kelsey didn't talk about their daughters much. She had to protect them from this world, but her old team knew about them. The Lazarus Rangers didn't, and despite her extreme loyalty to Jezzeff, Kelsey had worked hard to keep it that way. She hoped he didn't know either. She certainly hadn't mentioned them to him.

"I don't know where they are," Nancy admitted. "A man with a scar over his eye came and knocked me out with some sort of spell. When Miss Fairweather woke me up, the girls were gone."

Rage took over her entire body. "Jezzeff kidnapped our kids?" She demanded. With one final painful jolt to her heart, the loyalty spell shattered. Her anger was too strong for it to keep hold of her. With her light gone, however, rage was all she could feel. Jezzeff had stolen what belonged to her. She would make him pay for it.

"The children are safe," Zordon said as he quickly approached them. "Jezzeff injured the older of the two, but they were rescued by Zayto and Amelia of the Dino Fury team. Both girls are being tended to and looked after."

Kelsey vaguely recalled the new Rangers from the night she'd apparently been abducted by the good guys. "Are you sure they're safe? Those are baby Rangers."

"I assure you, these Rangers are more than capable of looking after the children until your light has been restored. Is that something you want, Kelsey?"

She considered his question carefully. "Yes," she finally replied. "I want to be me again. My family needs me, and I'm no use to them like this."

"Very well. We are working on a plan to fix the rest of the Lazarus Rangers as well. For now, you may stay here. I do not believe you are a threat to the rest of the Lightspeed Rangers or to your wife. The children should stay with Amelia and Zayto until you are feeling more like yourself."

Kelsey nodded. "Yeah, they shouldn't see me like this... Thanks, Zordon." She hesitated. "And Miss Fairweather, thank you for bringing Nancy here."

"It gave me an excuse to come see my husband," Angela replied with a smile as she looked at Joel. "And, remember, it's Mrs. Rawlings now... Or just Angela."

"Right... I knew that. I mean, I was at the wedding... I guess my memory reset on certain things." Kelsey shook her head to try to clear it. Her memories were all over the place, which must be a side effect of Jezzeff's resurrection spell.

Joel wrapped his arms around Angela, giving her a quick kiss. "I really need to teleport back home more often," he said with a grin.

"You sure do," Angela agreed. "Or drive. It's not that far."

"I haven't had Angela and the kids move here because I don't want them mixed up in this mess," Joel explained to Kelsey. "I go home as often as I can, but it's hard being away from them."

"What about you, Dana? Where's your son?" Kelsey asked. She knew Ryan was an eternal bachelor and Chad had an ex-wife and no kids, so she didn't ask about their families.

"Safe. He stays with my father, but we talk every night and I go home to visit once a week," Dana replied. "I hate being away from him, but I already lost Carter. I refuse to risk losing our son, too."

"I'll leave you to catch up," Zordon said. "I have business I must attend to." He left them.

Kelsey tried to focus on the people she knew had once been her friends. She couldn't connect to the bonds, but she was aware of them.

"I love you, Kels," Chad said as he squeezed her hand. "I'm so grateful you're alive."

She knew she was supposed to say it back, but she couldn't feel love. Instead of lying, she simply squeezed his hand back. The touch might have been comforting if she could feel comfort.

I'll get my light back, she vowed. And when I do, that son of a bitch Jezzeff is going to pay.

BARTELLO
He was pretty surprised when Keilah brought Andie to him, but what surprised him more was the fact that she had Dimitria with her. Bartello had never met the woman, but he certainly knew who she was.

"The Guild did an enormous amount of damage to her, Barty," Andie explained. "Braydee, Zedd, and Taylor stabilized her, but it's not enough. She's already starting to fade again. Can you help her?"

Dimitria's life force was weak and fragmented, almost like it had shattered and been pieced back together several times. "I have never seen anything like this before," Bartello admitted, "but I'll try. Zee! I need you. Bring Zydo, too."

Zee dutifully came running. He offered Andie a warm smile before asking, "What's up?"

"The Guild has severely damaged Dimitria's life force. She needs help urgently," Bartello explained. "Dimitria, in order to connect to you, I must touch you. Is that alright?"

"Go ahead, Bartello," Dimitria replied. "And do not worry. The secret of your survival is safe with me."

"I appreciate that." He touched her arm and immediately realized the truth. He looked at her with deep regret. "I can restore your energy, Dimitria," he began, "however, it is only a temporary solution. Unfortunately, your fate is sealed, unless we allow something we should not."

"What does that mean?" Andie asked.

"Your element is Spirit, Andie. I think you already know the answer to that question," he replied gently.

"She's going to die? We can't do anything to change it?"

"Dimitria's soul is bound to another. When one perished, the other's destiny was sealed. The only other option is to-"

"No," Dimitria said in a surprisingly firm tone. "Just give me the strength to do what I must do. All things happen for a reason. I accepted my fate long ago."

"I can sustain you for a short time. Make your peace with your loved ones and then handle this as quickly as you can. When it's over, your body will be gone, but your soul will survive and heal."

"I'm sorry," Andie said with deep sorrow in her eyes. "I thought Bartello would be able to save you..."

"By allowing me to walk to the end of this path, he is saving me," Dimitria replied. "Do not be sad for me, Andie. This was always my path."

"Do you still need Zydo, Barty?" Zee asked.

"Yes. Even buying Dimitria this small bit of time will take a tremendous amount of energy," Bartello replied.

"I'll get Zydo," Andie volunteered.

"Thank you, Andie," Bartello said. "Zee, let's get started."

CAPTAIN SMITH
He sensed something strange when he entered the safe house. Now that Kizzie was at full strength, they'd all returned home. Captain Smith spotted B'Danna sitting at the kitchen table, but it was the person sitting beside her that made him stop in his tracks.

"Bleeding Christ on the Cross, I've gone mental!" Kizzie exclaimed.

"Well, bollocks! I didn't see this coming," Zyxx said with a laugh. "You're not mad, Luv. He's really here."

"My God..." Captain Smith whispered.

"Oh, my dear, sweet boy!" Amareese cried. She hugged him, proving he was physically present and not just a spirit.

"Hey, Mama Ama..." Draze replied as he clung to her. It took them a moment to release each other.

"Draze... How is this possible?" Raffitty asked in confusion.

Tedius flung his arms around Draze without saying a word. He held on tight until B'Danna finally said, "He can't breathe, Tedi... And he needs to now."

Tedius released Draze and stared at him. "This is truly a miracle..." He said in wonder. Tears formed in his eyes, but Captain Smith knew they were tears of joy and not grief for once.

"B'Danna, how has this happened?" Captain Smith asked before he pulled Draze into his own arms gently.

"It's a long story, but I'm apparently a necromancer now and, well... It just sort of happened, Sir," B'Danna replied.

"Welcome home, Luv," Kizzie said before joining Captain Smith in hugging Draze.

"I missed you guys so much," Draze said softly.

"We missed you, too," Captain Smith replied.

Raffitty affectionately ruffled Draze's hair. "Welcome back, Kid. Does Laby know you're alive? I'm sure he'll be extremely relieved."

"Laby was there," B'Danna replied. She went into Soldier Mode as she provided a brief report. "Ronnie and her kids are safely back at home. Dimitria was located and rescued, but she's in rough shape. She was left in the hands of incubi in the hope that they can save her." She turned toward Amareese. "Flekt and Tiffani are back where they belong. They're safe."

"Thank you for telling me that, sweetheart," Amareese replied.

"Unfortunately, the Wildcats lost Hannah, but everyone else survived," B'Danna continued, still refraining from showing any emotions.

Captain Smith bowed his head. "What a tragedy. Hannah was a lovely woman," he said.

"She gave her life to save Lucas. She died with honor."

"I would expect nothing less from her."

"What do you say we call Tinny? I'd say Draze's return from the dead warrants one hell of a party," Zyxx suggested.

"As if Tinny needs a reason to throw a party," Raffitty said with a laugh. "But yes, I think a celebration is in order. Don't you, Bob?"

"Certainly," Captain Smith replied. "This day is truly a blessing." He paused. "Where is Amara?"

"She's resting. She looked pretty tired when we came home, so I suggested she lay down," B'Danna replied.

"I'll go check on her. Excuse me." He patted Draze on the shoulder affectionately before heading to Amara's room. He knocked gently.

"Come in, Capitan," she replied.

It always sent a chill through him when Amara called him that. In those moments, she was so much like Carolena it was uncanny. Most of Carolena's memories had come back to Amara recently, although they were still keeping that quiet from the others. Amara was her own person, but ever since Captain Smith had changed her destiny by saving her life, she'd steadily become more and more like Carolena. His list love had truly returned to him.

"Are you alright, Amara?" He asked gently.

"Yes," she replied as she sat up. "I'm a bit nervous, though."

"Oh? Why is that?" He sat beside her on the bed.

"B'Bodian... I know we've been trying to take things slowly, especially as I try to distinguish my own emotions from Carolena's," Amara began, "but we did give in to those feelings once, three months ago, when I was especially overwhelmed."

"I remember," he replied softly. Of course he did. Their one night of pure bliss had been unforgettable, but he didn't want to push her to become an official couple until they were certain it was what Amara wanted.

"We connected more than ever that night," Amara continued. "And, as it turns out, we connected more than either one of us realized."

"What do you mean, my sweet Amara?"

"B'Bodian... I'm pregnant."

He was filled with both immense joy and complete terror at her words. The last time he'd had a child, he'd lost her in the worst way possible at the hands of a man he'd considered an ally. He wasn't sure he was strong enough to survive something like that again.

"B'Bodian? Are you alright, Capitan?" Amara asked.

"I..." He took a deep breath. Looking into Amara's eyes, his love for her overpowered his fear of losing her and their child. "Yes," he replied. "Yes, Amara. I'm fine. In fact... I'm so happy I can barely process the news."

She looked relieved. "I was worried you'd be upset."

"Why would I be upset? I believe you know how I feel about you by now, Amara, and a child is the greatest blessing in the universe." He wrapped his arms around her. Amara leaned in closer, so he kissed her.

"I love you, Capitan. I have since before I met you," she said. "It is only natural she should return to us now."

He stared at her. "Are you saying...?"

"I know her soul as well as I know my own, B'Bodian. Marie has decided to reincarnate. Her soul is inside of the child I'm carrying."

He was suddenly overwhelmed by his emotions. Tears fell from his eyes before he could stop them. He began muttering in Eltarian, trying to make sense of what was happening. He remembered every moment he'd spent with Carolena, every milestone he'd witnessed with Marie, and he finally let himself feel all of the grief he'd been carrying since that horrific day in 1964 when he'd lost everything.

"My loves... My most sacred, beautiful loves..." He whispered as more tears fell. "You were everything then... And you are everything now... You are everything..." He shook his head. "If you leave me again, I will not survive it..."

"Do not fear, my love," Amara said soothingly. "She and I are both strong. Things will be different this time."

"Marry me," he said so softly he wasn't even sure she'd hear the words.

Amara smiled at him, her eyes lighting up more than ever. "Of course," she replied.

His heart was still broken. It would never fully heal. In that moment, however, he felt part of it mend. For the first time in far too long, he had hope.

RITA

She was going over some wedding plans. Everything was still in the early stages, but Rita wanted to get married as quickly as possible. She and Zordon had lost too much time together already.

Zedd was going to be Zordon's Best Man. It might seem weird to most people that her ex-husband was going to be in the wedding party for her new husband, but it made perfect sense with how close the two were. There was no one else Zordon wanted more by his side. Caius would be a groomsman, and Zordon had yet to pick out the rest of them. Rita was struggling to select her wedding party.

Maybe I should put Rito in a dress, she thought with a laugh. She didn't have many close female friends. She'd already decided that Angie would be her Maid of Honor.

Rita was surprised when someone knocked on her door. She opened it and saw a girl with her dark hair in pigtails looking up at her nervously.

"Aren't you the Witch's daughter?" Rita asked in confusion. "Didi, right?"

"I decided to disown my mommy," Didi replied. "Cooper said to introduce myself to you because un-Mommy wants me dead and I'm your sister."

Rita blinked at her. "My sister? I thought Dark Specter was your father."

"Dark Specter was my daddy. The man who screwed my mommy and created me was Master Vile, though. He never wanted me. Daddy took me in and raised me."

Rita was only mildly surprised by the somewhat vulgar explanation. "That's why you go by Didi Vile! I assumed it was just a villain alias."

"Nope! He wouldn't claim me, so I took his name to spite him," Didi replied proudly.

Rita smiled. "You're a brave girl, Didi. Father didn't like to be mocked... But why have you come here?"

"I need somewhere to stay. I can't crash at Cooper's forever. It's not really fair to him, and he's busy worrying about Patti right now." Didi hesitated. "I know you don't know me, and you probably hate me, but-"

"Didi, you're family. Of course you can stay!" She moved aside to let Didi inside.

"But I'm part of the Guild, sort of... I mean, I kind of ran away, but you can't just quit the Guild."

"As long as you're not working with the Witch and Jezzeff anymore, I'll help keep you safe. That's what big sisters do. Rito lives here, too. I don't mind the company."

Didi smirked. "Cooper was right! I'm kind of glad I came here."

"I'd like to know more about you, Didi. What can you tell me?"

"Well, I have a crystal inside of me that makes a shield of darkness, and my un-Mommy wants to steal it, but she has to kill me to do it because the crystal's in my heart."

Rita frowned. "I won't let her do that, Didi. And what I meant is, what do you do for fun?"

"I create mayhem and chaos."

"Right... Anything else?"

Didi shrugged. "I like stuffed animals... And sugar, especially chocolate."

Rita smiled and grabbed a box of chocolates from the kitchen table. "I love sweets, too," she replied.

They sat beside each other on the couch and shared the chocolate. "You know, I always wanted a little sister," Rita informed her. "Rito's great, but he doesn't look as cute in a skirt as you do."

Didi grinned as she finished her second piece of chocolate. "Thanks. So, what do I have to do to earn my keep here?"

"Nothing, Didi. You're still just a child."

"I'm eighteen. Legally, on Earth, I'm an adult."

"Eighteen's very young, and there's an innocence to you."

"I don't think I've ever been called innocent before." Didi giggled.

"That's because people looked at your actions instead of your temperament." Rita studied her newly discovered little sister and nodded. "You're not so different from me when I was your age, Didi. I was evil because I had no choice. Once Zell stole my light, I was forced to return to my... our father, and he raised me to only know evil. It took me a very long time to realize there was another way, and I only got there because my daughter found love and happiness and I chose to protect her. I didn't think anyone would ever forgive me for my past actions, yet now, I'm inviting Power Rangers to my wedding! I was evil for a lot longer than you have been. It's never too late to change."

Didi seemed to consider this. "I never thought I'd want to be good, but... But Cooper's good, and Callie's good, and the Circle's good but they still helped me when my un-Mommy decided to kill me. Maybe being good isn't all bad."

"Rito and I can help you learn to be good. You might find you enjoy it."

"I'd like that... Big Sis." Didi said the last part shyly, with a big grin on her face.

Rita returned the smile. She had a feeling this was the start of an interesting new part of her life.

ADAM

He and Thorn were walking home together when he sensed trouble. Thorn tensed, obviously sensing the same thing. "Something's coming," Adam said.

Sure enough, someone began moving toward them. "Greetings, Power Rangers," the man said. Adam found himself staring at the three horns on his head. "How fortunate we are to run into you."

"Who's we?" Thorn asked.

"I'm so glad you asked." The horned man smirked as several more figures revealed themselves. They had wings and beaks and looked like the bastard children of Big Bird and a Tenga. "I am Felonious, and these are my underlings."

"You have your own underlings? Impressive," Adam quipped. "I suppose you're competing with Jezzeff?"

"I have no competition! I have come to conquer Earth!"

"Is this guy serious?" Thorn asked.

"He seems to be," Adam replied with a shrug.

"With a name like Felonious? Isn't that a bit spot-on?"

Felonious growled. The minions immediately attacked. At first, Adam and Thorn used Martial Arts to hold them off, but it was obvious they needed an extra power boost. "Thorn, it's Morphin' Time!" Adam shouted. "Mastodon!"

"Ninjetti, the Frog!" Thorn replied.

As soon as they were morphed, they began working together. Adam and Thorn had always had a strong connection, but being morphed at the same time seemed to increase it significantly. It was like Adam constantly knew where Thorn was without having to look at him.

"I will destroy you!" Felonious cried.

"That's what they all say!" Adam replied.

Felonious came toward them with what appeared to be a magical staff. Adam could sense the power flowing through it. He might not have had Casey's extensive training, but Adam had always been open to magic, and Casey had sworn he had a little bit inside of him. Being Casey's son, Thorn definitely had the potential for magic of his own, but so far, he hadn't really embraced it except to lend energy to Sage or keep her grounded when she needed it.

As Felonious sent his attack at them, Adam dove in front of Thorn to protect him. The spell that hit him sent him flying into a tree. He cried out in pain as his morph failed.

"Dad!" Thorn cried in horror.

"Ugh... I'm getting too old for this crap," Adam groaned.

Felonious sent another attack toward Adam. It might be enough to do serious harm now that he was unmorphed. He braced himself, but was stunned when the magic didn't hit him.

Thorn stood in front of Adam with his hands out. He was holding onto the spell somehow. Adam could see the confusion in Thorn's eyes, although the Ninjetti armor covered the rest of his face. Thorn continued holding the spell in his hands, not allowing it to harm Adam but also clearly having no idea how to release the energy safely.

"Well, well, well! This boy has hidden gifts!" Felonious declared with glee. "Too bad he doesn't understand them!" He tapped his staff against the ground firmly and a blast of power raced toward Thorn and Adam.

Much to Adam's confusion, that didn't hit him either. Instead, someone teleported in and blocked the attack. "I don't think so," she said.

For a second, Adam assumed it was Sage, but the voice sounded wrong. He looked up and saw a girl dressed in a White Ranger suit he didn't recognize. She radiated with power. As she drew her sword, she sliced through Felonious in one swift motion. He burst into flames and burned to ash with little more than a confused whimper. His minions instantly burst into flames as well. When they were gone, the girl removed her helmet. She shook out her hair and turned to look at Adam and Thorn before guiding the spell out of Thorn's hands and releasing the energy back into the ground.

"Are you guys okay?" She asked.

"You..." Adam mumbled. He'd seen her before, in dreams. It had started a while after Casey's death, right after Sage returned from a spontaneous trip to Japan, and it had happened several times since.

"Dad? Who is this girl?" Thorn asked, although it was obvious she was familiar to him. Adam wondered if Thorn had dreamed of her as well.

"You're real," Adam said in wonder.

"I am," she confirmed.

"I never remember when I'm awake, but... You're Sakura."

She nodded. "You didn't answer me. Are you okay?"

"Is it true? Are you... Are you mine and Casey's?"

"It's true... Dad," she said a little awkwardly. "Now answer me."

"I'm okay. Sore, but alright. Oh my God... You're real."

"I thought we'd already established that," she said with a slight laugh.

"Sage and I aren't twins..." Thorn suddenly said softly.

"No, Thorn... You're not," Sakura replied. "We're triplets."

"I thought it was just a dream..." Adam said.

"I know. That's because I wasn't meant to be in this realm actively yet, so it was better you not know the truth. The thing is, I went and became a Power Ranger, so... Yeah. Here we are. And it's awkward. Sorry about that."

Adam wrapped his arms around her, and he immediately knew it was the absolute truth. Sakura was his daughter, another piece of him and Casey, and he finally had the chance to know her. Sakura allowed the hug, and after a few moments, she relaxed slightly in his arms.

Thorn cautiously approached them. "You don't like Sage," he said.

"I can't stand her," Sakura agreed. "But I don't mind you so much." She offered him a shy smile that made her look less like an intimidating Soul Reaper and more like a normal teenage girl.

"I'd like to get to know you."

"I think I'd like that, too, Thorn. I've been getting to know our mother, and I think it's time I know you and our father, too."

"What about Sage?"

"I know I have to play nice because we're both Power Rangers, but I don't think we'll ever be close. She's an obnoxious, self-centered brat."

"That sounds more like Katie than Sage."

"You didn't see what she was like in Japan. I'm not going to stand here and trash talk her to you. I know how close you two are... But I hope you'll give me a chance even though I don't want to spend any more time with Sage than I absolutely have to."

"You're my sister, too, Sakura," Thorn replied. "Of course I'll give you a chance."

She looked at Adam. "So, have you dealt with the idiot and his pet birds before?" She asked.

"No, he was new," Adam replied. "It's not exactly the first time a random bad guy showed up and tried to take over Angel Grove, though. He wasn't even the weirdest one we've encountered."

"He was an evil spirit. I'm not sure what the deal was with the giant chickens, but they were connected to his spirit energy. When I killed him, it killed them, too. You shouldn't have to deal with him again, but you should probably figure out if anyone knows him and why he was here."

"That's a good idea," Adam admitted. "But first... Would you like to come over for lunch, Sakura?"

Sakura looked surprised. "Oh... Um... I don't know."

"Can Soul Reapers eat food from this world?" Thorn asked.

"If we're in a Gigai, then yes... I'm not using one now, because my Ranger form seems to give me the same benefits as a Gigai. You can see me, I can interact with anyone I choose to, and I'm assuming I can eat, but I haven't tried."

"Let's find out," Adam said. "I'll cook anything you want."

Sakura sighed. "Alright," she agreed. "As long as Sage isn't there. I'm not quite ready to deal with her yet."

"Sage is spending the day with Uncle David and Sam," Thorn replied. "There's no chance of her stopping by."

She smiled. "Then I'm in."

Adam was relieved. "Great. Come on," he said. "The house is this way."

GRAYZEE

He knew the Coalition's handiwork when he saw it. An entire family had been executed, including three children under the age of ten, and Grayzee was staring at the bodies which had been posed for maximum effect.

"I really believed Eris would stop this," he said with a sigh. His heart hurt as he looked at the children. He began to use magic to clean them up a bit. No one needed to see them like this, with broken bodies and faces frozen in terror.

"I didn't authorize this," Eris said from the doorway, making Grayzee jump.

"This has the Coalition written all over it, Eris," he replied.

"Then someone's gone rogue, because I didn't order an attack on this family or any other."

He was slightly relieved to hear it wasn't her doing, but it was still horrifying. "I have to fix them up before I report this..."

"Don't bother. I'll clean up the mess. You look like shit, Grayzee."

"Gee, thanks for that, Sis," he replied dryly.

"It's obvious you haven't slept in a couple of days. Whatever's troubling you, you need to take a break. Go see your idiot friends."

"But the children-"

"Will be presentable when the authorities arrive to take their bodies away. Just refrain from calling in the Peacekeepers for a few hours so I can get out of here before they arrive."

"Why are you helping me?"

"Because I do not like it when my people go rogue on me. Now, leave. I have work to do." She waved her hand dismissively.

Grayzee trusted she would do as she'd said. He left the house and used a portal spell to transport him to Earth.

"Grayzee, Lad, you're just in time!" Tinny declared. "We're planning a party. Draze is back from the dead and we're going to celebrate!"

"I'm not in the mood for a party," Grayzee said, not even bothering to ask how Draze had miraculously returned.

"Blasphemy!" Hezzo snapped.

"What's wrong, Grayzee?" Maegus asked.

"Today is just one of those days when I wonder what the hell the point of everything is," Grayzee admitted. "It's like no matter what we do, horrible things keep happening. Innocent people continue to be hurt. Nothing ever changes."

"You can't give up, Lad," Keet said soothingly. "We have to keep fighting the good fight."

"You know what you need?" Ling asked. "Inspiration!" He took a deep breath before he began to dramatically sing, "Just a small town girl, living in a lonely world. She took the midnight train going anywhere..."

"Just a city boy," Branz immediately chimed in. "Born and raised in South Detroit. He took the midnight train going anywhere..."

"A singer in a smokey room," Hezzo added.

"A smell of wine and cheap perfume," Tinny joined. As each person sang, they moved closer, slowly surrounding Grayzee.

"For a smile they can share the night," Keet sang.

"It goes on and on and on and on..." Hill added.

"Strangers waiting," Maegus began. "Up and down the boulevard... Their shadows searching in the night..."

"Streetlights, people," Amello added. "Living just to find emotion! Hiding, somewhere in the night!"

"Working hard to get my fill," Nee sang.

"Everybody wants a thrill," Davi joined in.

"Paying anything to roll the dice just one more time," Vrennius added.

"Some will win, some will lose," Ling sang.

"Some are born to sing the blues," Branz added.

"Whoa, the movie never ends," Hezzo sang.

"It goes on and on and on and on..." Hill belted out stronger this time.

"Strangers waiting," Maegus repeated. "Up and down the boulevard... Their shadows searching in the night..."

"Streetlights, people," Amello added. He looked at Grayzee expectantly.

Grayzee couldn't bring himself to ignore that and risk ruining such an incredibly epic song. "Living just to find emotion!" He joined in powerfully. "Hiding, somewhere in the night!"

Hezzo pulled out his guitar and started to play the song's legendary solo. When it ended, everyone looked at each other.

In perfect harmony, the twelve of them sang, "Don't stop believing! Hold on to that feeling! Streetlights, people, oooooh... Don't stop believing! Hold on... Streetlights, people, ooooh... Don't stop, believing! Hold on to that feeling! Streetlights, people, ooooh..."

"Are you ready to keep believing now, Grayzee?" Ling asked.

Grayzee laughed. His heart felt lighter, and he remembered what they were fighting for and the reason why. "Yes, Lad. Nicely done," he replied. "Sorry about that. It was my one allotted nervous breakdown for the month. Now, let's talk about that party..."