A/N: In this chapter, I am still revamping the 'Evil Reborn' episode to fit with this story.

Chapter 28- The Phoenix

Xxxxx

'Evil Reborn'
Shiba House
Panorama City, CA

Lauren immediately ran out of her quarters. Mike, Emily and Kevin filed out of their rooms, not a second later. Terry and Antonio were inside the living room, and they were met by the others. All six congregated, their looks were full of distress and immense hurt. Particularly the females, their eyes were already full of tears that were in preparation to shed. A drunken Mentor Ji stumbled into the same room. With blood shot eyes, he despondently stared at them. Mentor Yaki, followed by the Shiba Family's servants, was the last to arrive. Even he had to question what just occurred.

"It's Jayden," Lauren murmured, her eyes concentrating on the table that usually housed the water map. Her heart slowly chipped piece by piece. She just knew the worst had come. Her melancholic demeanor caused the others to bow their heads, as a form of condolence. A sliver of a tear dropped finally, and she wiped it away. As more came down, she surrendered and allowed them to flow freely.

Her team winced at the unbearable cries exiting her. They were gut wrenching to witness, and they even had to close their eyes.

Mentor Yaki stepped up to her, and he pulled her into a fatherly hug. "Don't...," he simply said, as he tightly held her. He apologetically looked at the occupants in the room. He paid special attention to his counterpart, Ji. He regrettably, yet pitifully watched how the other man was handling the shift in the house and the downfall of his relationship with Jayden. He escorted Lauren back to her private room; he wished for her to get some rest.

The servants trailed the people they were familiar with the most. Ji left to reacquaint himself with the bottle. For the rangers and Terry, they began to speak about the possibilities of what happened to Jayden.

"Maybe, we're just over thinking things," Kevin notified, a little too calmly for the others to stomach. He shrugged his shoulders, since their eyes were directed at him. "What?! Is it bad to be optimistic," he angrily asked.

"No," Mike reasoned softly, as he ran soothing circles up and down his girlfriend's back. "But, what we felt, explain that then. Can you do that? It wasn't exactly roses and chocolates."

Kevin hung his head in defeat.

"Don't you think we should head over there," Emily managed to ask through her teary tirade. Her petite frame shook mildly, as this wasn't the first time she's shed tears for her leader, her true leader.

"Think about Mia too," Terry added thoughtfully. Their link with Jayden was strong, but he didn't share that. The sibling bond he had with his big sister was quite strong, and he could sense she was in deep anguish. He already understood and witnessed the love shared between Mia and Jayden. It didn't take a rocket scientist to see that. Their love was clear, pure, and he really wasn't too surprised that she abandoned her training to go where he went. He despised that his sister was able to find her soulmate so easily. Not everyone could have that luxury. However, that luxury was about to be gone, if none of them did a thing. They had to check out what's occurred. If they didn't, he would deem them to be bumbling fools that were always in the dark. "I'll stay here and keep watch after things. I'll call if you need to come back."

"Terry's right. Deker, or whoever is under there, is under an unbreakable spell, and Jayden's going through an identity crisis, on top of that. He's probably angry at the world, and with the two of them I bet you they battled until..." Antonio silenced himself at once. He wouldn't dare finish the sentence due to fear that was bubbling in his stomach. He clenched his fists into balls that were so tight his knuckles were no longer a natural shade. "I should've defeated Deker when I had the chance!" He crumbled to the ground, gathering his body into fetal position. As Jayden's oldest friend, he should've done what was best on his behalf.

The others jumped at his devastating plea and gathered around him for support. For a few minutes, they let him release his emotions. Then, the Blue and Green rangers helped him to stand up.

"Antonio, it's best you stay here. You're overwhelmed by your emotions right now," demanded the Yellow ranger gently, as she placed her hands on his shoulders and sat him down. She faced Mia's brother. "Watch him."

Terry nodded, and he watched the rest of them run out of the Shiba House. He said a little prayer for their sake's. He turned to Antonio, who was still rattled to his core. He headed towards the kitchen, so he could get him something a cup of water to soothe him. Once he arrived, he was startled to see Ji's taxing convolution with the bottle so innocently named, Jack Daniels. He huffed at the cover up. It was just as bad as Captain Morgan! He approached Mentor, though a bit wary. "Mentor Ji," he said in such a soft voice it could curl a baby's mouth.

Unlike the strong, steadfast person he's always been, this Mentor was filled with shame and incredibly weakened. He was given a task to watch after Jayden, and he swore with his whole heart he was. He even thought he had the best intentions for him. Yet, after hearing the words that were spitted hatefully, all he was doing was purposefully hurting Jayden. Mentor felt like a joke, a hopeless blunder that was on this Earth for what reason. He growled angrily, grabbed his cup and swallowed the blazing liquid. He didn't know what cup he was on. He stopped counting after five.

Ji heard another person happened to near him. He looked drearily, and he saw it was a person with Asian features. "Terry," he mumbled incoherently. His chest swelled with pain. Once more, he kept Mia's status underwraps. During this trying time how could he admit she was about to be a parent. This stand in, right in front of him, was going to be an Uncle. With his baby face, he didn't even look like he could wipe his ass properly. Mentor wretchedly wiped his face. It was followed by a gruff snort. The alcohol was surely overtaking his usual placid and well-mannered thoughts.

"The others have left to look for Jayden and my sister," Terry mentioned, while hoping to not elicit another drink to enter Mentor's mouth. "I'm here, watching Antonio and Lauren, kind of, and if you want me to, I'll keep an eye on you."

"Can you imagine a baby running around here," Ji blended his words. Even with all the pain and torment he's caused Jayden, he was still appointed to be a Godparent. Did the soon to be father even understand what a Godparent's title entails?! Damn it, that would mean, God forbid, if anything were to happen to Jayden and Mia and the grandparents, then he would be next in line to resume their duties. He bitterly laughed at the thought.

"A ba-baby," Terry stuttered, thinking Mia's mentor had gone mad. He meticulously rose his hand up, watched Ji carefully, and extended his hand across the way, so he could rescue the bottle that was the object of Ji's eyes.

Mentor Ji quickly grabbed for the neck's bottle, intruding on Terry's retrieval. He haphazardly poured his glass, the contents spilling over the tip. His eyes became as hard as rocks; the younger man stopped him. "WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOUR DOING," snarled the intoxicated man.

The newcomer sternly met his the elder's eyes. "Stop this," he begged desperately. "You're better than this! This drink is only a temporary fix. Don't you see there's other issues you have to deal with? And all you want to do is drink it away. You might drink yourself into a coma," he excitedly stressed, his emotions fully blown to his wit's ends, and his anger amassing towards another outburst. "He needs you, well all need you, but your babbling about a baby or something and drinking as if you're a lush!" He flailed his arms wildly, while admonishing Mentor Ji.

Ji whipped his head up rather quickly, but still wasn't ready to sober up.

"Please," the younger man began, as he closed the bottle so no more access could be granted. "... everyone needs you and your wise guidance. The state you're in now, you are more useless than a paper bag as an umbrella on a rainy day," he ultimately finished. He grabbed a cup and the water carafe, kept the liquor bottle flushed against his body and left to be with Antonio.

Mentor Yaki overheard the last minute of the conversation. Once Terry left, he came in and sat across Mentor Ji. At last, they were given the chance to have their long awaited talk. There were plenty of words forming in their minds. When given the chance, they were going to unleash their tongues. Certainly, someone was going to get bitten, if not careful.

Xxxxx

Panorama City Forest
Panorama City, CA

The fire still raged like the depths of Hell.

Inside the barrier, laid Jayden, his color deathly draining, all the while, Cole was peacefully sleeping and still unaware of what's occurred in the last few months, let alone the last few minutes.

Outside the blazing surrounding, were distraught adults and kids. Their cries were ground breaking and echoing despite the strong howls of the tree branches filled with leaves. The consensus was clear—it didn't happen as fast as they would like to think so. There was time, a fraction of a second would suffice, to save him. They all warned, their pleas were evident: boisterous, needy and plain as day.

Yet, he was occupied, caught in how to escape, so he could be with his growing family, build a relationship with the family that's been unveiled to him recently, and reconstruct the divide he and his surrogate father faced. If only, he listened.

One of many issues, as of right now, was Cole, or was it Deker? He, as the person in question, was the one that caused this horrific atrocity, better known as Jayden's demise. On and off, for more than two years, he was assuming a curse and living a life filled with torment and despair that was never supposed to be his. Another entity determined his fate; furthermore, decided what his mind, body and actions could or couldn't do. To the naked eye, there was no such catalyst to cause the effect of him to unwillingly slide back and finish the duel that seemed endless. To the unknown entity or power that has so callously bestowed such a fate, where there was a murderer and murder victim, why was it so important for this to happen?

Dayu watched helplessly, her human side coming to the forefront, since a tear cascaded down perfectly. She softly gasped at the watery prick. "It wasn't supposed to be like this," she breathlessly murmured in disbelief. She backed away quickly, as she thought about the valiant Red Samurai ranger. She's spent the last couple of years inflicting pain on him and keeping him busy, but that wasn't her true nature at all. She was human, deep down inside of her, she was built with emotions just like everyone else birthed to the world. Her heart that had been suppressed for such a long period of time actually ached and sorrowfully cried for the fallen man. Out of her peripheral, she watched as three more people ran by. Her curiosity and interests were piqued, so she hid behind a tree again.

Kevin, Emily, and Mike stopped, dead in their tracks. He was gone, they hastily figured. As they walked deliriously towards the group that was congregated outwardly, their insides to continuously screamed 'no'. They finally reached the grief stricken others and joined them.

"Is he..." Emily questioned. She moved her petite body to the side of her best friend. She hugged her comfortingly, letting her best friend cry in her arms.

"Man," Mike sadly said and unleashed his fury with a swift kick to the ground. Dirt escaped beneath him. He realized they were too late.

For a few more seconds, they paid their respects. Then, the newest arrivals laid their eyes on familiar people. They were the ones that began a legacy, worldwide and throughout the galaxy, known today as the Power Rangers. Understandably, they stared in awe. The trio had no clue that Jayden's roots were power related. It was honor to be in their presence. Without the countless amount of time they placed their lives on the lines, the daring missions they participated in, and the trials and tribulations, personal and impersonal, the world they knew might've been wiped out. Even though they already did, they wished to thank them for paving the way. Moreover, they wanted to express their gratitude for bringing Jayden, even if they didn't raise him per say, into this world.

But, not right now.

The Blue Ranger, no more expressed, stood back up. He summoned his Spin Sword and swirled his it in a circle, powering his weapon. Cerulean waters, with grandeur, flowed at the blade, and he flung it forward. The water swooshed around cleanly and caused the fire to die down until there was no more. Not even an ember. He collapsed to the ground in shock finally. He loathed himself. The last memory of his best friend was anger. He punched the ground grievously, feeling unworthy of life.

Mia, still speechless, kept shaking her head. This had to be a dream. This couldn't be his end. There was more they had to do together. While in the clutch of the Yellow ranger, she rose her head barely and intently watched the Oliver Family, engulfing Jayden's body into a tight hug. Their cries were so sad and unbearable to watch. She wasn't religious, but she questioned if this was in his plan? If so, it was evil. Their son or daughter was supposed to be without a father? She found that hard to believe, but just watching him, there, with movements initialized by his family, made her think the cards deemed her to be a single parent.

Alyssa ignored the uncontrollable strife and grief reeled out by the people around her. For a moment, she wanted to be selfish and just think about her husband. Of course she wasn't heartlessly forgetting what she saw, but in her position, others needed to understand. She was finally with the father to her kids, her teammate, on the battlefield and off, her husband, the love of her life. She launched her smaller body on top of his and just wailed with delight. He was freed, and finally he could come home. She engulfed him into her petite arms tightly and gently nuzzled him to wake up.

"Cole, Cole," she whispered lovingly, while wiping the tears that were coming down so quickly. "It's me. It's Alyssa," she continued to wake him. She sniffled, trying once again. She knew he was a heavy sleeper, so she let it go. She continued to lay on him, hearing his heart thumping away was enough. "I love you," she declared huskily. He was safe.

Tommy, Kim, Sophia, and Tristan weren't as lucky as Alyssa. They were clamoring to wake their family member. Their attempts were weak. Unfortunately, he was already gone. The slash from Urumasa severed his link to the world. His father, mother, sister, and little brother weren't so quick to give up on him though. They believed there was still a chance to bring him back, and they determined. If not, they would make the person, who caused this, to suffer.

Ultimately, Tommy detached himself from his family that would never be complete. His eyes already transformed to the menacing green from the onslaught of his ranger days. He got up and towered over Alyssa, who was still lazying herself on top of her husband. "Get off of him," he demanded frighteningly, his eyes unrelenting, and his fists already clenching and un-clenching slowly.

Cole's wife looked up, and then back down in a rushed manner. She shielded her husband. "No, Tommy, no, Tommy," Alyssa repeated in a begging fashion, as she dispersed all of her weight fully on him. "He didn't know what he was doing! He didn't know!" Her tears crashed harder than before.

"You're defending him," Tommy questioned in disbelief. He crouched down, ready to pounce, but didn't for her sake. Not yet, at least. "DON'T MAKE ME HURT YOU."

Fearlessly, Cole's wife rose her finger and wagged it furiously in front of his face. "You will not threaten me. This is still all your fault," she glared at him angrily.

Kim overheard and, from her spot, lunged at Alyssa, instantly pinning her down against the dirt and pebbled ground. As her eyes turned to their evil pink ones, she squeezed the other woman's arms painfully. The brunt of her strength caused Alyssa's body to make an identation. She didn't stop and wasn't going to stop. This was to avenge her son's wrongful death. "Tommy, do it," she ordered, since there would be no interruptions. She knew her husband's plan. She already formulated something similar.

The Evans family was going to pay.

"Ow, Kim, stop," Alyssa entreated tearfully, as she dealt with the enraged Crane. She knew this little spitfire had a temper. She's watched plenty of times and often found it comical how the male rangers shrunk with fear. Now, she was on the end of the anger, and she didn't like this one bit. She actually feared for Kim and her husband were going to do. She tried to force, shrug her off, do anything, but, against Kim, she was weak.

The Samurai rangers watched in horror, as Tommy effortlessly grabbed the Red Wild Force ranger by the neck with one hand. He administered blow after blow, each strike more harsher than the last. Blood dribbled from the person that used to be their enemy's mouth, and his eyes were filled with fear and uncertainty. Literally, his fate was in the hands of the 'Greatest Ranger Ever'. The rangers weren't sure whether to interrupt or stand by. Yet, they couldn't see another person dead, and, this time, via beating.

"Mr. Oliver, stop," Kevin yelled as a warning. He cowered, after seeing the way Jayden's birth father made eye contact with him. It was too familiar—way too familiar. The older man was definitely the father of Jayden.

Sophia stood, and she faced the Samurai rangers. Her eyes altered to green, just like her father and how her older brother could. "Do not speak," she authoritatively barked towards the one donning Blue. "Butt out!" She protected Tristan, who curiously looked from his dead siblings to the others.

He was woken so suddenly; he couldn't process the why. He endured the beating for as long as he could, but he had to stop the vicious monster that his friend had become."Tom-Tommy... it's, it's, it's me, Cole," Alyssa's husband attempted to dissuade him from making an attempt on his life. His head was jumbled, unsure of what he's done to provoke this attack. He assumed he's caused harm, but not sure. All he could remember was a wedding, someone's wedding, being surrounded by people that meant so much to him, and how beautiful his wife looked that day. He was so happy to be encompassed by such warmth, love, and happiness it could make any being on the side of evil sick with disgust. He wished to go back to that day; it was better, times were better, a lot better. Now, he's been subjected to an inhumane punishment. He'd rather die or slip into unconsciousness than deal with this. His jaw abnormally slid out of its socket. More inaudible pleas were stated.

"TOMMY, STOP! YOU'RE HURTING HIM," Cole's wife pledged mercy. Her lips trembled, her eyes were shut tightly, since she couldn't stomach the suffering of her husband, and she prayed for relief, anything, anything that would help him.

"Mia, stop them, do something," Emily begged, while tugging on her best friend's arm.

She looked to be in a trance. The Pink Samurai ranger's eyes were consumed with evil, and she ignored Emily's words that were trying to convince her to help. She shoved Emily off of her and headed towards the Oliver and Evans family. "They deserve this," she coldly muttered, vengeance clearly on her mind. She thought about the better times her and Jayden had. The first time they met: he was on a white horse, decorated with Red accents. Inside the Shiba House: she saw that cute, clown Halloween costume he was in. They plan they made together: to pose as a soon to be married couple, which felt so right. When she spent the nights in his bed: they kissed, caressed, cuddled and loved one another. Their last months together, she came to know him better than the others, and she was nurturing a piece of him. Her knees became weak just thinking about he was ripped away from her so heartlessly.

"Mia," Sophia yelled, as she walked away from Tristan. She helped the mother of her future nephew or niece remain standing upwards. Her eyes returned to brown ones, and she looked at her seriously. "Are you okay, is it the baby?"

Mike, Emily, and Kevin overheard the question. Even in the middle of the ludicrous melee that had ensued, they surprisingly eavesdropped on that. All mouthed, 'baby', to one another, questioningly. It finally donned on them. Mia was pregnant. They deeply hissed a breath, shocked to know two of their closest friends were going to be parents.

Despite the craziness around him, his dad pummeling Uncle Cole, his mom acting as a weight to Aunt Alyssa, the Samurai rangers at a loss for words and his sister checking on Mia, he intently watched his older brother. Though he was still in some pain due to their familial bond being cut, he sat, indian style correctly. He closed his eyes. At his young age, he knew he had some kind of power. His parents and sister have exhibited such, so he needed to tap into his. Power coursed through his veins, white and pink energy swirled around his body, as he called upon his animal. His animal would know what to do in this kind of situation. When he opened his eyes, they were opaque and white.

After examining Mia, Sophia twisted her athletic body to get her little brother. When she saw his eyes weren't naturally colored, she knew his animal spirit was about to speak. She crawled back to him and stared directly into his eyes. "Tris, what is it? Huh, tell me," she prodded in worry. "Tris, come on!"

''COMBINE ANIMAL SPIRITS AND LET THE PHOENIX RISE."

Sophia pondered for a bit and calmed down too. "Falcon, Crane, Dove, and Hawk need to come together and help my brother, so he could come back," she quickly figured. "Can it work?! Even with me and Tristan helping?"

Tristan simply nodded per the Hawk's notion. "EVEN THE NIGHTINGALE," the animal spirit revealed. "HURRY, THERE'S NOT MUCH TIME."

The youngest Oliver closed his eyes and fell into a deep sleep. Sophia was able to catch him, and she had new found determination. As she closely held Tristan, she approached her mom first. Her mom was still holding Alyssa beneath her, and the two woman were struggling. She shook her head. They were never supposed to be like that with one another. "Mom," she called. There was no response. "Mom, we can save Jayden. MOM!" She placed a soothing hand on her mom's shoulder. "We can save Jayden," she repeated.

Kim, after hearing the words that were like soothing music to her ears, released Alyssa's body without anything said. She followed her daughter.

Mike and Kevin ran to recover a clearly traumatized Alyssa. They pulled her into safety, and Emily began to check on her.

"Are you alright," Kevin asked her.

Alyssa nodded. "Please help my husband," she begged. "I don't think he knew what he was doing. He would never kill another ranger!"

The sleepy Tristan was handed off to his mom, and Sophia hurried to her dad. She witnessed, as the sweat rained down his face, and he continued to exhibit no mercy towards her 'uncle'. She was nervous to confront her dad. However, she needed to relay the message. "Daddy," she warily called. She flinched at the extra punches that were given. When he turned to her finally, she blew out a breath. He wasn't too far 'gone'. "We can still save him." He looked away sadly. "Daddy, I'm mad too, but if we can save him, isn't that better?"

Tommy held his arm back as far as he could, colors of his ranger days enveloping his fist, and he looked between his daughter and Cole. His daughter pleaded with her eyes, in which she inherited from him. She was actually scared of him. She was right, to be perfectly honest. The rage had to stop, and he's done enough damage. Cole was limply hanging by a thread. He dropped Cole, at once, and he fell to the ground. His family ran up to him and embraced him tightly. He profusely said his apologies for his brazen behavior.

The Blue and Green rangers escorted Cole out of there, so he could be in the comforts of his wife's arms. Cole already had two black eyes that were the size of baseballs, his jaw was abnormally formed, and there was blood exiting in various areas of his face. He was able to thankfully look at Kevin and Mike though. His wife hugged him, and he believed she had never felt so good in his life.

Emily took her cardigan off and offered it to Cole. "To wipe the blood," she said.

He gratefully accepted, obviously not able to say so. As his wife began to blot around his face softly, he watched the Oliver family, a man covered in blood, and a woman, whose body language appeared sad. 'What have I done', he privately mused. Still lost, he had a sinking feeling his hands were responsible for this mess.

While Cole and Alyssa were in the comforts of the Ape, Bear, and Dragon wielders, Mia sat a few feet away from Jayden's family that was beginning to straighten and move his body accordingly.

"What are they doing," Mike asked, while he held his girlfriend, so he could warm her up. Due to her selflessness, she was shivering. He continued to watch. He wasn't sure on whether to trust people, who engaged in such disturbing acts. He alleged they did it for their son's sake, but it was still too much. "Are they going to..."

"No way," Emily interrupted in surprise. "They're going to try and bring him back."

"Well, at the reunion, didn't they say they brought someone back to life before," Kevin reminisced, while he scanned his brain that was filled with an abundant amount of information. "They, and, animals or something."

Cole,, who managed to do so, and Alyssa nodded. Alyssa recounted the story of how the Ninjetti were able to use the spirits of the Falcon, Crane, Ape, Bear, Wolf and Frog to bring back their mentor, Zordon. However, they have never attempted to bring a human back.

Before regaining their composure, the Oliver family cried. They supposed their actions were some sort of release for their hurt and guilt. They were wrong, and they would apologize. The Evans family might not forgive them, but that didn't matter. However, before they could do so, they had to help their son. As much as they wished for the other Ninjetti to come and help, they wouldn't arrive in a prompt manner. The four of them would suffice due to their blood similarities and origins. At least, Tommy and Kim hoped so.

"Falcon, Crane, Dove, and Hawk," Sophia told them, and she gently woke Tristan. He opened his eyes, and he looked tiredly at his sister. "Hey, we need you."

"Alright," he simply nodded and woke up. He observed Jayden again. "Wake up. We need you too," he yawned, as he was positioned by his sister.

Kim's heart melted at sight of her youngest son speaking to her oldest son. She wiped her eyes. "Jayden, come back to us," she whispered, her voice hoarse and full of emotions.

"Okay, let's begin," Tommy prompted. He sat next to his wife, his children and the opposite end, and they formed a circle. He was about to begin, but his daughter placed her hand up. "What is it Sophia? If it's about the others, they won't make it in time."

"No, but the Nightingale. We need the Nightingale," Soph foretold, and they quizzically stared at her. Her eyes went to the side, and she looked at the tormented Mia. "Their baby must be the Nightingale," she guessed.

"Well, that child is half of Jayden, who is Ninjetti," the Falcon replied, and he got up. He headed towards Mia and bent down in front of her. His expression softened considerably. From the time he told her that he knew about the pregnancy and the way he acted towards Cole, she might have been a little apprehensive of him. He wouldn't be too surprised. "Hey, I'm sorry you had to witness..."

"It's fine," Mia quickly stated. "Are you going to..." She locked eyes with each person from his family for a second and finally rested them on Tommy's deep chocolate brown pools. "Are you going to..." Tommy nodded he was, before she could even finish. "Is it going to work?"

"We don't know," Tommy answered honestly, while giving her a comforting smile. "But, we do need you."

"Me, why?"

"The baby you are carrying is part Ninjetti. The more animal spirits we have, the better chance we can bring him back. Are you willing to try?"

"Of course," she hopped up without hesitation. She found a spot and sat in between Tristan and Sophia.

Those who weren't Ninjetti watched the Oliver family and Mia closely.

Tommy sat at Jayden's head, his wife, daughter, Mia, and then Tristan rounded it off. All five took deep breaths and exhaled slowly. They rose their hands enough, their fingertips touching one another's, and they closed their eyes. As colorful ribbons spiraled out of their bodies, intertwined, and rapidly showered upon them, five flying animals shot out of their bodies like a bolt of lightning. Falcon, Winged Lord of the Skies, Crane, Winged Lady of the Skies, Dove, Winged Princess of the Skies, Hawk, Winged Crown Prince of the Skies, and Nightingale, Winged Duchess of the Skies circulated, and rapidly entered Jayden, Phoenix, Winged Prince of the Skies. They succumbed to their slumber.

Xxxxx

(Jayden's State of Mind)

Jayden walked down the lighted corridors of what looked like a school. Honestly, he had never stepped foot into one, but he assumed this had to be, since there were classrooms, people of various shapes, sizes, and even ages. There were secured, metal cupboards, an atrocious shade of green in color, lined against the walls too. As he came around the corner, he stopped himself from walking further. Two men, one bigger than life, who looked oddly familiar, and the other, tall and gangly, who wore too much metal, looked to be harassing a petite girl. She appeared to be oddly familiar.

Another person approached the trio. "Didn't you hear the lady? She said 'no'," he announced with displeasure radiating in his voice.

"I think it's time for someone else to be taught a lesson," the larger man threatened.

As intricate karate moves were displayed proficiently, Jayden watched. That person also looked well known, but he couldn't place his finger on it, at least not yet. He laughed though; those bullies skittishly ran off like nobody's antics definitely reminded him of two people he's encountered before. He shrugged. Besides, the sick moves he just witnessed was something something short of amazing.

"Thanks, that was really great," the female target graciously acknowledged

"Sure..." the man clad in green and black stared momentarily. "I'll see you later," he ended up walking away.

"Hey, um," she called for him, "you're new around here aren't you? I'm Kimberly."

"Yeah, hi, I'm Tommy," he held out his hand for her, and they shook on it.

Jayden' s mouth dropped, at that very moment. He suddenly felt like his head was filled with bricks instead of a brain. Of course those two were familiar, they were his parents! He couldn't believe the sight, and he snickered ultimately. His dad's hair was girlishly long, and he was so nervous to be around his mom too. He had to talk to his dad about that, but when would he get the chance?

The last thing he remembered was being slashed by Urumasa. He looked down, and his clothes were like before he ran away, well sort of. There was a big gash down his chest, where his shirt had torn, and he was still covered in his own blood—lots of blood. He asked, though to himself. Was this like purgatory then? Did he have to go through some kind of ritual to pass on to the other life? He wasn't sure how the whole religion thing worked, but he hoped he was going to where the angels sing and harps. He continued moving his feet, since his parents already left to next class. He thought so anyways. However, he stopped once more.

He wasn't ready to move on. He still had plenty of unfinished business to attend to on Earth! He rolled his balled fists back and forth in anger. His wish was to be alive! In the midst of trying to escape this, someone tapped his shoulder. He turned, but there was nobody. He furrowed his brows and ended up walking away. He did question what was the purpose of him to see how his parents met. It's obvious they met, did stuff sexually, and they had him. As he passed by some more people and even through walls, he was beginning to grow frustrated.

"Damn it, I want to be alive," he argued with no one else. If he was a ghost, then why did he have to come to a high school? Don't ghosts go somewhere else? Couldn't he even haunt people?! He'd like to see how everyone was fairing without him, especially Mia. He didn't like that their child was going to be without a dad. "Let me go home," he screamed at the top of his lungs.

"That poor little, Phoenix," another voice spoke with an alluring accent.

Jayden turned his body, left, right, back, front, all over the place, but he couldn't seek who owned that voice. He swore he would speak to the owner immediately. It was vital. "Where are you," he queried with a rough voice. "Come out, now!" Unlike his encounter with the Nighlock, Vulpes, who he sensed so easily, he found this person more cunning and harder to pinpoint. Once again, his shoulder was touched. If he faced that direction, then he was sure that person would resume tricking him. He slowly did so, since there wasn't any other option.

He was met by a woman with reddish curly hair, clothed in a forest green, two piece bathing suit that was not public appropriate, boots that reached her knees, held a long baton that looked to have originated from a tropical Rainforest, and she owned plenty of poise and high self esteem that was for sure. He engaged in conversation with her, since he didn't believe her to be a threat. To be frank, if this was the afterlife, then he would surely be more accepting due to how this woman looked and dressed. He would never admit that to Mia though. If he ever again, which he would surely do, since he loved her.

"Who are you," he cleared his throat, after relinquishing the nasty thoughts that entered his mind.

"I am Dulcea, Master Warrior of the planet, Phadeos, where the Great Power is held."

"Great Power, oh, um, okay... why did you call me a Phoenix?"

"That's what you are, of course," she replied, a bit ambiguously, but with a smile nonetheless. Sensing he was lost, she explained. "Your parents are the Falcon and Crane. Before you entered this world, you were given an animal spirit, the Phoenix. Your sister is the Dove, your brother is the Hawk and of course, your daughter is going to be the Nightingale."

"My daughter? My daughter, you already know I am having a daughter," he asked her curiously.

"My, my, little, Phoenix, you are full of plenty of questions today." She gave in, since a lot did need to be explained. "Come with me." She exited to the right and was immediately followed by the Phoenix.

Once they left the school, the scene around them changed in one second. They were away from civilization and appeared to be deep in the jungle. To be more specific, they were standing in the Ancient Ruins of the Ninjetti Temple. The exact place where his parents, and some of their best friends, received their animal spirits.

As Jayden took in his surroundings, he realized there was one person, sitting comfortably on a ledge. Their eyes locked, and Tommy and Kim's son felt like he knew this man. He noted the other persons's hair was like the color of 'Black Beauty, facial features as strong as Hercules, body similar to the Greek God, Zeus, and seemed to be wise beyond his years. He didn't seem to be past the age of 30-35 or so. Just like how Dulcea only looked to be in her early 30s.

"Hello, Jayden, it's been awhile," he came down, and they were face to face. He was astonished by the growth, how handsome he came to be, and of all the accomplishments he's done. If this wasn't his prized Falcon and Crane's son, he would've been flabbergasted. Yet, he wasn't, since this was their son. Oh, he literally had tears in his eyes just thinking about them, how tiny he was, and the blunder of when there was that one time he actually had to change a diaper. "You may not know me, but I am Zordon. I mentored a teams of rangers that included your parents."

"It's nice to meet you," Tommy and Kim's son shook hands with him. After he did so, the wounds around his body vanished. He looked to be as good as new and was deeply amazed. "How did you do that?" He kept examining his body.

"Thank you, Dulcea, for bringing him to me," Zordon thanked happily, and Dulcea grinned and came to stand by his side. "I can't believe it's him."

As Zordon's consort for many years, Dulcea was happy to do his bidding. She kissed his cheek. "You're welcome." She tossed a quick glance at Jayden. After the excitement of being healed died down, he appeared to be sad. "Little Phoenix, what is the matter?"

"Why am I here," he asked earnestly, while he stared between the two.

Jayden was given no answer, but he was escorted to the fire pit. Like how the viewing globe in the Command Center, images of his parents were produced. They weren't in any particular order. He watched, intrigued. His parents went through quite a bit, as rangers, and when they weren't fighting evil. He was able to even catch a glimpse of how nervous his dad was when he was about to enter the world, and he saw the look on his mom's face when the time came to give him up. He saw the plenty of times his parents were targets against Lord Zedd, Rita, King Mondo, Divatox, and when his dad was stuck in amber. There were snippets of when his mom gave up her power coin, the day she wrote the infamous letter, and how much she suffered while having second thoughts about giving him up for adoption. The various plans they came up with to meet him was also showcased. Even though they wanted to tell him they were his family, he still considered his adopted family. As the image montage was coming to a close, he watched Sophia, her Ninjetti powers amplified when she had dreams about him, and how she prayed to come in contact with him, even after her time in the hospital. As the video finally concluded, he came to the realization, his family really did care for him, and they have been looking for him.

He had been stupid, and he jumped to conclusions. They didn't 'throw him away'. Both believed he would be safer. He discarded his tears with his hand.

"I want to go back. I'm ready to be with my family. I don't want to die," Jayden announced with conviction.

"Well, you've done plenty on Earth already. You've led a team of rangers, met your love, used the powers bestowed upon you for personal gain, a child was produced with your DNA, your adopted sister already knows the Sealing Symbol, the curse is gone, and of course, you know who you're birth parents are. What else is there for you to do," Zordon countered. He pointedly stared at Jayden and expected an answer.

"Excuse me," Jayden blurted in surprise. He couldn't believe this man. "Well, what was the point of showing me that video or whatever." His finger pointed at the fire pit.

"To know your history. Your history is important," Zordon responded as a matter of fact.

Jayden wiped his face in exasperation. "There's still plenty for me to do!"

"Such as, Little Phoenix," Zordon's consort asked.

"Will you stop calling me that," Jayden spat with venom. His eyes concentrated on the person known as Zordon. "I want to be there for my child, I want to finish the fight against Master Xandred, the Nighlocks and anything else that could potentially harm my family. I need to fix the relationship between me and Mentor Ji. I have so much to talk to him about. And most importantly, I need to know more about my parents. More than the titles of 'longest serving, greatest ever, multicolored this, Christmas tree that'. I want to know my parents, my siblings on a deeper level. I know my sister has my boyfriend, and I need to make sure he's treating her right before I haunt him in his dreams!" He inhaled and exhaled his breath, after releasing such a mouthful. "Please, I don't want to be dead."

Zordon and Dulcea zeroed in. They purely nodded, though they were worried about the consequences that were to come.

"If you must leave," Zordon started. He looked to the left, and two people magically arrived. "They would like to officially say goodbye to you." He reclined back in Dulcea's womanly touch.

"Mom, Dad," Jayden's voice trembled at the sight of his parents, who he came to know as his adopted parents.

Mathew and Nina Shiba arrived, and they both covered their mouths in great shock over how much their son had grown in all these years. The exact sentiments Zordon had, they had. He appeared to be strong too, and they even knew all the women that would come in contact with him would surely swoon over him. They really couldn't believe the sight, and they were grateful for such an opportunity like this. They rushed towards their son and bombarded him with hearty hugs.

"Mom and dad, is it really you," the Phoenix queried, as tears filled his eyes. He didn't expect this emotional reunion. They nodded. "Mom, dad," he continued to hug them. "How are you? Are you well? I've missed you."

"We miss you too and Lauren also," was Mathew's reply. He knew his time with his adopted son was short, so he got straight to the point. "Jayden, we have to apologize," he honestly said his sorry. "We didn't consider your feelings nor your birth parents' feelings when we decided for you to be an impostor. We thought we did what was best for everyone, but , everyone, who was or is against us, was right. We only thought about preserving the Shiba line. We used you. Even, I tried so hard to disregard that, but son, I am so sorry."

"But dad-"

"Mathew," Nina smacked her husband as a way to admonish him. "You, you didn't mean to use him." She sighed heavily. "Just be thankful you haven't gotten too hurt." She was met with four pairs of incredulous eyes. "Oh, right, but you're going back, and we will continue watching you and just know that you did this family proud. We have always been proud of you and were so thrilled to get the chance to raise you for a little." She checked and rechecked him, dusted him off, and smiled tenderly. The tears already clouded her eyes. "I also know you've been wondering about it. My death was my choice. I didn't want your father to be alone, and I knew you had another family out there that was looking for you. I never had to worry about you really, but I still did because you're my son and will always be my son."

"But, what about Lauren..."

Nina sadly smiled. "She's a strong woman, and I know you'll never abandon her."

"Jayden, I'm sorry. I love you, and I never looked at you as if you weren't my son," Mathew promised.

After a few more exchanges, Nina knew their time had come to an end. She clasped her husband's hand. "It's time we go, my love. Jayden we'll be watching. I love you," she declared, and then she looked at Zordon and the woman, who wasn't so clad. She smirked. "Thank you, Zordon, for everything."

"Thank you again, Zordon," Mathew politely saluted.

The adopted parents departed to where they had came from.

Jayden finished his cry really quick and boldly confronted his parents' mentor once more. "Thank you. Again, I really wish to be back with my family and alive," he reiterated.

Dulcea sort of hung her head, but she readily complied with his demand. "Lit- Jayden, your wish is granted," she readily accepted that he wanted to return.

"You really were supposed to pass away tonight," Zordon informed much to Jayden's dismay and shock. "Please understand, due to your decision, another person's death will take your place. A person very close and dear to your heart."

"Who?"

"When that time comes, it will be made clear," Zordon answered in short. "Now, it is your time to leave. Five animals will guide you home."

"Good luck, little Phoenix, to those who are Ninjetti, anything is possible and may the power protect you," Dulcea waved her goodbye.

Zordon and Dulcea soon dissipated. Jayden wandered around, and he was suddenly met by a falcon, crane, dove, hawk, and nightingale. They beckoned him forth. He trailed them. As the quintet of unique birds led the way, they sang their hearts out. He was coming home, their mission and family was complete. They continued and disappeared into the light.

(End of Jayden's State of Mind)

Xxxxx

As the birds mystically appeared again, they flew around Cole, showering him with goodness and light, and then they soared and were joined by the raging, illustrious Phoenix, who proudly displayed its fiery wings and cawed fiercely. The rangers, old and new, and a person on the side of evil had just witnessed something beautiful. The Phoenix dove, head first, into Jayden, bewitchingly suturing his open chest and restoring his body with life. The rest of the birds entered their respective person's body, and they started to move ever so slightly. Jayden's eyelids began to flutter.

"Jayden, Jayden," Tommy called and was the first to rise and see, if his son came back to him, them. When his son's blue eyes made eye contact with his, he began to tear up, which was really uncharacteristic of him, for the third time that night, and he didn't care if he looked girly or was in touch with his touch with feminine side too much. "I'm so glad." He promptly hugged him.

"You're back," Kim cried, and she instantly joined the hug, adding a motherly touch and definitely showcasing that she wasn't going anywhere anytime soon. "I love you so much." When he eagerly reciprocated, more tears came down because she was happy that he was so accepting of her.

When Jayden departed from from his parents, he looked at his younger siblings. "Come on, you two," he motioned, and they leaped into his arms so quickly, he flew back a couple of feet. They embraced him so tightly and warmly, he almost couldn't breathe. He chuckled; it was great to be with them. They continued, actually thinking he wasn't real, but he was. "Hey, I just came back from the dead, you know. No big deal," he quipped.

"Your jokes are still bad," Sophia noted with a teary smile.

"Jayden," Tristan announced for the first time. His older brother nodded. "Phoenix, you are Phoenix."

"Yeah, I am the little Phoenix," he proudly stated. Dulcea might've badgered him about it, but he was fine with now. That title held significant meanings. As his family uncrowded him, he cocked his head slightly to see his girlfriend, who had been staring, as if she was scared to touch him. He scooted his body over to her, and he caught her just in time. He assisted her back up, cupped her face, felt the water that was eagerly leaving her eyes, and used his thumb to gently wipe them away. He basked in the way her milky skin felt against his hands. He thought he was never going to see or be able to do this again. "It's okay, I'm here," he whispered.

"I-I know, but... you almost weren't," she sadly murmured, the thought made her wince with agony. Her head ascended because of him, and she implored his blue eyes. "I love you."

"And I love you," he proclaimed truthfully, as he rubbed her belly. "I have to be here for our daughter."

Unable to stand by, Kevin, Mike, and Emily met with their missing team members. They all gave a heartfelt hug and expressed how happy they were that he was back. They also asked about someone being pregnant, and the soon to be parents couldn't hide that fact any longer and admitted it was true. The Blue, Green, and Yellow rangers jaws dropped all over again upon hearing that little tidbit. An apology from the Blue ranger was given. He felt awful for having so much hatred and distrust towards his leader, his real leader. Mike hoped he would be in the running for Godfather, and Emily eagerly wished to plan the baby shower, even if the first trimester of her best friend's pregnancy.

Jayden and Mia smiled. They really had the greatest friends in the world, but they made a statement. 'One day at a time.'

Thanks to their friends, and, yes, they still considered the Oliver family, friends, the healing process was accelerated. The bruising around Cole's eyes were faintly present, his cuts were nowhere to be seen, and his jaw was placed appropriately. Cole and his wife stood back, and they let everyone have their happy reunion. This duo had their own, after all. Just to be back by each other's side and not have to worry about the possibility of Cole being taken away was enough for them. They were set to walk away, but they were quickly stopped by Jayden.

Tommy and Kim's first born son seriously stared at the man before him. He looked different. He still saw his dad beat the crap out of him, but other than that, he really didn't look like the half human-half Nighlock he was accustomed to. Despite fighting to the death on more than one occasion and the actual fact he rose a sword and literally killed him, he still had respect for the Red Wild Force ranger. They were kindred animals, in retrospect. "Hi, I'm Jayden, Red Samurai ranger. It's nice to meet you," he held out his hand as a form of respect. "This is my team. Mia, Pink, Mike, Green, Kevin, Blue, and Emily, Yellow. We also have a Gold ranger, Antonio."

Tommy and Kim watched him. Their son was so resilient and a willing participant to extend the hand of friendship. Not only that, but to the person hat killed him, he was still going to pay homage and look past what a spell caused. For that, they had to realize the error of their way from earlier. This wife and husband stepped in front of Cole and Alyssa.

"Cole," Tommy began with a regretful expression plastered on his face. "What I did was wrong... you didn't deserve that. I'm really sorry, Bro."

"How about this," Cole bartered, "let's say we got into a really heated fight, but tell the others I won. What do you think," he said with a million dollar smile. The other rangers laughed at him. "What?"

"Uncle Cole, I know you've been wanting to beat my dad each time you guys spar, but who's walking away with evidence they clearly lost," Sophia notified, and then she giggled. The others agreed with her.

"And Alyssa, I never meant to cause you any harm either. It's just when I saw what happened with Jayden, and you were trying to step in the way of the person that killed him, as a mother, I just snapped. My treatment towards you was harsh. I can't believe I did that to you."

"It does hurt," Alyssa chimed in with feigned anger. "But I'll live. Just like your son." She introduced herself to Jayden. "My name is Alyssa Evans, it's finally nice to meet Tommy and Kim's first son."

Instead of shaking her hand, Jayden brought her in for a gracious hug. "It's nice to meet you too."

"Okay, if I wasn't so beat up, I swear I'd kick your ass," Cole muttered irritably, yet it was playful too.

Sophia and Tristan eyes' altered to their intimidating ones, which made Cole shudder with some fear. Though they were glad for Uncle Cole to be back, he was still speaking ill of their brother, so they defended their eldest sibling the best way they could. Because he was trying to keep the story 'he beat the Greatest Ranger Ever' they decided to let him slide. Any other time, the Oliver family's daughter would given him a whack or two, since she's had the proper training, and Tristan would've also joined.

"Uh, is that a family thing," Mike mindlessly questioned about the eyes. Emily smacked his chest. "What!?"

"Mike, be respectful," Kevin reprimanded.

Mia giggled. She was ecstatic to see such camaraderie. Even more so, she was happy to be able to hold her boyfriend's hand. Then, her stomach began to grumble miserably. "Um, Jay..."

"Hungry," Jayden asked her, really excited to hear what sounded like heaven to him. She nodded.

"Alright, why don't we all go to our house," Kim offered. Tommy slid his arms around his wife's waist and eagerly agreed. "We really need to change, and everyone can come too. I'm inviting you all. Plus, I'll cook."

"Oh, me too," Mia added, as the others barfed roughly due to her lack of cooking skills.

"But Mia," Kevin interjected with a knowing smile. "You're pregnant," he dramatically pointed out. Everyone but the Samurai rangers looked at him inquisitively. "And you've been through a bit, it's imperative that you don't cook right now," he finished, enunciating every single word that left his mouth.

"Oh, right," Jayden concurred. "Babe, we've been through a lot. Get some rest." He silently thanked Kevin for the save, and, even more, he was happy that Mia agreed. She even kissed his cheek for being so thoughtful.

Everyone agreed their next destination was Tommy and Kim's rental home. As they began to walk, the couples paired off, while Sophia, Tristan and Kevin rounded off the back.

That left just Dayu in the forest. No longer hiding, she walked to the remnants of the blazing fire from earlier. She walked around the perimeter, sad because the companion, Deker, was gone, but she would still wait for her husband, Deker, so she could be with him once more and beg for his forgiveness. If she hadn't traded her life, two centuries ago, then she would've perished with him due to the fire. It would've been better than wandering this Earth, sulkily and depressed, anyways. She noticed there was still one piece left. She got on her knees, picked the handle up and examined it.

Without warning, Sophia was overcame with an eerie sensation. She walked opposite of everyone else, and that's when she gasped at the Nighlock that appeared to be female. She believed the monster, somehow, reactivated the sword's powers, since it was in her hold. "Mom, Dad, Jayden, look," her eyes widened at how the weapon began to glow mysteriously to the color of ochre, a soft bronze color. Everyone ran back to her side, and they watched to see what she was going to do next.

Dayu was alerted their sound filled returns and huffed under her breath. She was going to leave this Earth with this sword as her keepsake. She circled the area with her eyes, figuring out where to leave. Instantly, the sword shot out of her hands with no assist and rose high, to mid-length of the nearest redwood tree. She watched in amazement.

Urumasa continuously stayed suspended in mid-air, for all to see, and it combusted. All witnesses had to cover their eyes. They were blinded by the light that followed. There, where the sword once laid, were three, ghostly figures. A woman beautifully dressed in a Victorian era dress, a man, maybe in his late 20s, early 30s, dressed in clothes of that era too, and another man, known as Julian. All could see them, happily reunited. They faced the Samurai rangers, former rangers and children and bowed their heads reverently. Then, they turned to face Dayu.

"Deker," his wife, who didn't appear to be his wife, called so sweetly. "Is it really you?"

Deker left his parents' side, as soon as he heard the feminine voice that called him. That was his sweet, loving wife, whose intertwining fate had resulted in this. "Dalia, what have they done to you," he asked, as he observed her. He softly touched her face. It was as cold as ice. Despair filed in."Don't worry, my love, we're going to be together again."

"Now, can we be together now!? I'd do anything to be with you, once more. Please don't leave me," she begged for him, but he denied her. "Oh, Deker, this isn't fair!"

"Dalia, when your time has come, we will. Don't rush things that aren't meant to be rushed. Can you do that, for me," he asked her seriously. She nodded her head in agreement. "Good. I'll be waiting. I love you, always have and always will."

"Deker, your father and I are waiting," Anita, wife to Julian, mother to Deker and mother in law to Dalia, requested his presence. When her son returned to her side, she grabbed the hand of Julian and embraced her husband. He was the warm, kind, caring and doting husband she's been waiting for. "Let's go home."

"Gladly," Julian sighed with relief. With his wife and son by his side, he felt complete and definitely abandoned his wretched nature of before. He would miss Cole, but this was his true family.

Dayu, along with the others, watched as the figures became no more. Her heart broke all over again. She wasn't going to wait any longer, even if he wished for her to. She was going to be back with her husband, renounce her stance as a Nighlock and become human because she's waited long enough. She sadistically marched up to one of the pretty humans in front of her, grabbed the person of her choosing and pulled her aside. She withdrew her weapon that hidden in her Harmonium. She was going to make this person resume her curse, if it was the last thing she did on his wholesome Earth.

"You will take this curse, and I will return to the side of my husband," she squeezed her neck harder, and she didn't wait for her to comply or deny. She invested all her energy into this, and as her body went back and forth between human and monster, she wished to not live like this, and she cried deplorably. These snivels were harder to stomach than when Jayden passed. Her soul departed from her heartless form and tried to enter one that was gentle and warm hearted.

As the painful separation and infusion continued, the spectators watched in shock.

The Samurai rangers, minus Mia, morphed, but they were too late. The transformation was complete with an error.

Poor Dayu... what she did worked. However, she should've never intervened and altered her destiny. She was no longer a Nighlock but rather her soul and body became contained to the Harmonium. As far as the person she chose to carry on her fate, she was the Nighlock and filled with even more vileness and hatred than Dayu could ever manufacture. She grabbed her weapon that tripled as a musical instrument and container and ultimately escaped through a nearby rock's crack.

Anyone, who is or was a Power ranger, or related to one, was never safe. They could all attest to that.

Jayden collapsed to his knees, and he remembered the words from Zordon. Was she the one that would take his place as far as death went? He prayed that wasn't the case. Whoever was set to die in his place, he vowed to prevent another death from happening.

As of right now, he had a more pressing issue to tend to. He needed to save Sophia, who was now Dayu.