[Location: Master Vile's Crystal Palace (Flashback - 10,000 years ago)
POV:
Rita Repulsa]

"Father, I do not understand why I must have a bodyguard," Rita protested as she stared at her father, the evil Master Vile, as she walked beside him through a long hallway that was made of pure black crystal with torches that held green flames within them, lighting their way down the path.

"I can take over that dumb planet on my own. You know I can do it," Rita whined.

"I know, my dear, but you can never be too sure. Remember the last time you said that? Those Magirangers happened," Master Vile reminded.

Rita frowned.

Truthfully, she didn't remember anything about these Magirangers her father battled. All of that time was a blur to her. But all Rita knew was that they killed her mother and his apprentice rescued her from their grasp. "And," Master Vile continued. "It is why I have given you this bodyguard. To protect you," Master Vile said before the pair reached a large crystal cavern where Rita found herself staring at a sitting figure.

The figure had the head of a young baboon but he had long black hair and furry blue skin. It wore a silver suit of armor and held a sword in his right hand and he was currently meditating on the ground, his wings folded closed.

She had seen many of his race before but they were all buffoonish oafs that couldn't be taken seriously but this one, there was a different air about him and it had her staring at him in wonder.

"Ah, I see you have arrived," Master Vile said approvingly to the knight.

The knight opened his eyes to reveal their ruby red color, which made Rita blink in surprise at how beautiful she found it.

The knight rose to his feet and his eyes connected with hers and for a split moment, she saw awe in them before it was quickly smothered away, replaced by a confident gleam.

The knight walked up to them and kneeled before her father. "Master Vile…" The Knight greeted.

"This my beautiful daughter is your bodyguard. The top Knight from the Academy, Goldar," Master Vile introduced. "And Goldar, this is Princess Rita Repulsa. You are to guard her with your life."

"Understood, Master Vile," Goldar said with a bow.

Rita noticed from the side of her eye that her father grinned and said "I'll leave you two be," before he walked off, leaving Rita and Goldar alone.

"My father feels I am weak enough to need a bodyguard," Rita hissed. "I aim to prove him wrong so when we go to Kaien, stay out of my way."

Still bowing, Goldar lifted his head to gaze at Rita and the princess could feel the world around her melt away, leaving only him and her in an endless black void. "I understand Lady Rita," Goldar told her firmly with a tone of respect.

Rita stared into his ruby-red eyes before she huffed and walked away.

[End Flashback]


Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Final Mix
Episode Fifteen: Knight of Devotion: Ranger Killer Red


[Location: Angel Grove High
POV: Kimberly Ann Hart]

At the sound of the bell, Ms. Ozu smiled and announced, "And that's the bell. You all have a wonderful weekend and don't forget to have fun!"

Kimberly began to pack up her bag when Billy leaned over and said, "I can't believe Jason actually decided to skip today."

"Neither can I," Kimberly murmured with a bit of concern. "Whatever caused it, I'm sure it was important. Until then, let's get to Ernie's. I'm craving a milkshake."

"Aren't you always?" Billy teased with a smile.

"Oh, Mr. New-Girlfriend-as-of-last-night has jokes, huh?" Kimberly grinned, causing Billy's cheeks to redden.

"Hart-san!" Ms. Ozu's voice called, prompting Kimberly to look away from Billy and at her teacher. "Do you mind coming to my desk?"

"Sure!" Kimberly replied before she glanced at Billy. "I'll meet you and Kat at the juice bar." Billy nodded and made haste while Kimberly finished packing her belongings into her bookbag and approached her teacher's desk. "Here I am, Ms. Ozu."

The Japanese woman smiled as the last student left the room, leaving the two of them alone. "Thank you very much, Hart-san. I wanted to talk to you regarding your grades," Ms. Ozu revealed.

Kimberly looked confused. "My grades? Have they slipped?" Kimberly asked. She had been doing her best in class while juggling both gymnastics and her ranger work, with the latter eclipsing the former. She had to keep her grades up to get into a D1 school.

And to her horror, Ms. Ozu confirmed her fear with a nod.

"Oh…shoot! I'm so sorry, Ms. Ozu. I c-can make it up any way I can," Kimberly hastily offered.

Ms. Ozu held up a hand. "Breathe, Hart-san. I know how busy your schedule is with certain things and your mother made it painfully clear how important your future is to you, which is why to help you bolster your grade, I'm offering to be your tutor," Ms. Ozu revealed.

Kimberly absorbed the teacher's words and smiled in relief. "That would be hella cool!" Kimberly exclaimed. "I'm pretty busy but if you have a day in mind, I'm there!"

"Marvelous," Ms. Ozu smiled. "I'm pretty busy myself except for Thursday nights. So, how about then."

"I'm there!" Kimberly enthusiastically repeated. "I'll even bring some snacks!"

Ms. Ozu chuckled.

"Just bring your charming personality and we'll be square."


[Location: Rita's Palace
POV: Rita Repulsa]

Rita had been in a deep sleep when she felt a familiar pulse of energy that flowed from the base of the palace to her room at the top which caused her to awaken with a gasp, her body rising sharply with sweat dripping down her face.

"No…" Rita whispered with dread in her voice.

Feeling that power, Rita knew that Goldar was now one hundred percent healed.

And that meant one thing.

He was going to fight the Rangers on this day…And he was going to die…

She felt agony rip through her heart at the thought of him facing the rangers and dying at their hands.

Except for her dearly departed surrogate daughter Lamie, all of her strongest monsters had failed in defeating this incarnation of rangers. She even hired the top assassin of space and he couldn't get it done and now, she was going to lose her Goldar.

Why did she have him so embedded in her heart?

He was her subordinate! She didn't care if anyone else in her service died, it was for the greater good, and yet losing him would be like losing a part of her.

And she feared what would happen if that occurred.

But at the same time, she was ashamed.

Ashamed that these mere humans had struck fear into her heart like this.

Ashamed that she didn't believe that Goldar would make it out alive.

He was her knight.

He had defeated the leader of the last Ranger group and he was powerful.

She should have more faith in him, in his power…He had never failed her before so why would he start now?

Besides…He had promised her once before that he would make it out alive and with the Green Ranger in his arms. She had to believe in that.

She had to believe in the knight she had fallen in love with.

She gasped to herself at the realization.

She knew that she cared for Goldar but this was the first time she had thought that word.

Love.

She was in love with her protector…

But when…When had her feelings evolved like this?

"Don't be stupid, I know exactly when my feelings changed did…" Rita murmured.


[Location: Forest (Flashback - 10,000 years ago)
POV:
Rita Repulsa]

Rita couldn't help but quirk an eyebrow as she watched Goldar meditate on the ground in front of her temporary mansion.

It had been six months since the takeover of Kaien had begun and she was impressed by the skill of the mysterious Beastly Knight Goldar.

He had defeated Kaien's own Ranger group known as Galaxy Force killing all except for Phoenix Soldier, who fled to preserve his life but during the intense battle, Goldar had been injured by the ranger so Rita had ordered him to rest.

And yet here he was meditating outside, disobeying her orders.

"What in Master Vile's name are you doing out here?" Rita asked with a frown on her face

Goldar stood up and said "Lady Rita," as he gave her a small bow, hiding a wince from the pain blossoming in his side, which made Rita frown.

Damn that Houou Soldier

Goldar turned around to glance at the moon as he replied, "I was meditating. I was unsure if I could rest in case there would be a night attack by that Red Ranger or any of the Freedom Fighters so I decided to stay outside to meditate in case anything were to occur. Also…I was gazing at the moons."

"And as beautiful as the moons are, you should be resting. That Red Space Ranger landed a good blow to your side and no bodyguard of mine is going to sit injured just because of a beautiful sight," Rita countered.

Goldar chuckled softly and said "I will be fine. Meditation also lets me heal slightly."

"How stubborn," Rita said before she walked up next to Goldar and sat down beside him. "Well, since you disobeyed one order already, I better make sure you don't disobey the main one now."

She saw Goldar blink in confusion before she gave him an expected look. He smiled in realization and said, "I will not disobey that order then."

Rita smiled and said, "Good bodyguard," as Goldar sat beside her.

"Tell me something," Rita asked. "What made you become a Knight of Specter?"

"My race belongs in battle. We were born and bred for it. Joining the Knights of Specter was always in the plans but what sped up my plans was my brother," Goldar explained.

"You have a brother?" Rita questioned.

"Yes. He was the greatest of us all," Goldar replied wistfully. "His name was Kongol the Fierce."

"He was your brother?!" Rita asked in alarm. Everyone knew of the Beastly Knight Kongol. He served as her father's leading general and led her father to conquer his part of the galaxy. Every monster and even non-monster admired the knight until his untimely death against Houou Soldier. "I'm sorry. He got the fullest honors when he was laid to rest..."

"He died doing what he loved, I know he had no regrets," Goldar softly replied. "However, that doesn't change the fact that he fell. When I found out from our ailing mother, I wanted revenge so I joined the Knighthood. To wipe the world of any rangers until I find the killer and once I do, I will take his life," Goldar explained.

"Your brother must have meant the world to you to undergo the severe training of the Knights," Rita said to him with an understanding tone. Her brother may be a bonehead but he was her bonehead and if he had died in battle, she was damned sure that she would avenge him as fast as possible.

"My brother was my idol…A fierce warrior who let nothing stand in his way between him and victory. He was everything our race aspired to be. When he died, my already ailing mother lost the will to live and soon after his funeral, she passed. Revenge is all I have left in this world and if that meant undergoing the hell of becoming a Knight of Specter, so be it," Goldar told her, his voice going from composed to angered as he clenched his left fist.

Without thinking, Rita placed her hand on the balled-up fist. Goldar looked at her before he lowered his head, his hand relaxing once more as he murmured, "Forgive me for letting my rage take hold of me."

"Relax yourself, Bodyguard. I may be the Master's loving daughter but I did ask about your past, no sense in feeling shame in that," Rita admonished with a stern expression. "Besides, what good can a future Empress be if she doesn't listen to her people?"

Goldar remained silent but Rita could see gratitude in his gaze and while she didn't know why, she felt a smile grace her face. "So, what will you do once you find/kill this ranger? Will you leave the Knights of Specter?" Rita asked him.

"I…Never really thought about the after admittedly," Goldar said after a second of thought. "But that is in the future. For now, I am here to serve you and House Repulsa. That is what matters to me for now."

"But once we rule the galaxy, you'll need to think of a retirement plan," Rita said with a frown. "You can't serve as a Knight of Specter forever."

"I know…But what would I go back to?" Goldar questioned. "I have no family, no friends. No one to call my beloved…All I have is combat…but you are right, I can't be a knight forever…But that is a road I may not even reach for now. But now I'm curious, what will you do when House Repulsa has control of the galaxy?"

"Me? I would rule of course," Rita replied cheekily. "This planet will be my main base. I mean look at it. Isn't it beautiful?"

Her temporary mansion was currently in a lush and beautiful dark blue forest, with a flowing waterfall behind her home along with the many sounds of wildlife being their only company during their night gazing.

"So you would take this planet for your own?" Goldar asked.

"Well, I'm taking it for my father, he would give it to me if I asked. I am his favorite daughter," Rita replied with a smug smirk on her face.

"Aren't you his only daughter?" Goldar asked.

"Yes. I mean, there is Rito but that oaf couldn't rule a pool, let alone a planet as beautiful as this," Rita replied with a laugh. "But I do love him all the same…But still, what a bonehead."

She grinned when she saw a smile appear on Goldar's face but then that smile vanished as his eyes looked to the left towards a large bush. Without hesitation, Goldar threw himself in front of Rita just as a red beam shot forth at her.

He barely managed to get in front of her when the beam slammed into his chest and then pierced through it, sending the beam passing by her cheek, barely touching her. She then watched as Goldar's body slammed to the ground

"Goldar!" Rita shouted in terror as several of Kaien's freedom fighters came pouring into the entrance. With a mighty shout, Rita's scepter appeared in her hands, ruby electricity flowing from the gem and her eyes as she let out a scream of fury.

[End Flashback]


[Location: Rita's Palace (Present)
POV: Rita Repulsa]

The images of the various humanoid beings being torn asunder by ruby bolts of lightning filled Rita's mind as she thought back to when Goldar had nearly perished for her sake but she forced that away to focus on the talk.

It was the first time they had ever talked that way before. She was always rude to him and in turn, he had always remained so short and cordial with her that having him break out of his shell just a little bit made her more drawn to him.

But it was him leaping in front of her and taking that hit to his chest that made her begin to fall for him. She had never been put in danger like that before and despite him having his own dreams of vengeance, he didn't hesitate in putting his life in mortal danger for her.

That…meant so much to her that she remembered staying by his side as her army razed Kaien to the ground and forced the inhabitants from the planet and by the time he awakened, the planet was theirs.

But all she could focus on was him.

'But it wasn't just that moment, was it Repulsa?' Rita thought to herself as her mind began to remember another memory.


[Location: Sorcery 7 (Flashback - 10,000 years ago)
POV:
Rita Repulsa]

"Focus…Center yourself. Do not let your monster form overwhelm you," Rita heard Goldar instruct his apprentice with a stern look on his face.

It had been five months since leaving their newly acquired world known as Kaien and Goldar was nearing back to full health.

Master Vile had been impressed with the selfless act Goldar had done to save Rita so as a reward, he gave Goldar his choice of an apprentice. The choice was hard but in the end, Goldar chose the teenage monster hybrid named Lamie.

Lamie, or as she was known by her codename "Scorpina", was younger than the Knights of Specter would normally accept but she held a very powerful monster form that could destroy even higher ranked Knights of Specter but when Rita met the girl, Lamie showed that she was just as perky, smug and sarcastic as Rita.

But on the flip side, she was very respectful towards those with power and could become serious and deadly similar to Goldar.

So together, Master Vile sent the trio and his army of putties to the next planet on his list of conquests known as Sorcery 7.

Sorcery 7 was a rough desert planet that held very powerful warriors known as the Kamen Riders and while Rita and her forces had them beaten, the war was a lot longer and brutal than Kaien had been, and in turn, it managed to give her massive headache every day.

But one day, she stumbled upon Goldar training Lamie and after a few minutes, that headache melted away, which of course caused Rita to watch the duo train after the war died down for the night. Rita didn't need to be a mind reader to know that Goldar liked her company during break time and she always made it a habit to talk to her any chance he got.

Today however was different. Goldar wasn't training Lamie in hand-to-hand combat or weapons training. He was training her to control her monster form. The last time Goldar had attempted this, he was injured by the fury Lamie had and it took Rita nearly killing her with her ruby lighting to change her back so Rita was a little concerned when Goldar decided to go this route again.

So there he was, sitting in front of Lamie's monster form with a calm expression on his face. Lamie's monster form was of a bipedal scorpion with hard red skin and golden armor on her chest, her lower right leg her entire left leg, part of the long stinger that was attached her to scorpion shaped head, which had golden armor on the "pincers" of the head and golden armor on her left arm with a pincer on it.

"I-I'm trying," The warbled voice of Lamie said as she turned her head to Goldar, her unfocused almond-shaped black eyes staring into his calm ruby-red ones.

"You can do it, just focus on me," Goldar instructed. "Do not let it slip from your grasp…"

Rita could see the hulking figure struggling before the form changed back to Lamie, who let out an aggravated growl and shouted "Damn it! Why can't I get this right?!"

"You can't rush it, Lamie. You need to walk before you can run," Goldar told her carefully.

"I know Master I just…How am I ever going to protect Lady Rita if I can't control my monster form?" Lamie grumbled as she sat down on the ground and murmured "Am I even worth becoming a Knight of Specter at this point?"

Frowning Goldar knelt and placed a hand on her head, which prompted her to look at him in surprise. "Lamie, I know you are angry at what you feel is a lack of progress but think of it like this. When we first met, you couldn't maintain your form for no longer than five minutes and now you can hold it for fifteen minutes. That is amazing progress," Goldar told her with a smile.

"F-Fifteen minutes? I held it for that long?" Lamie asked with surprise.

Goldar nodded with approval and said "You did. I am very proud of your progress. You'll be killing rangers and taking planets on your own at this rate."

"Wow…" Lamie said with such a large smile, Rita could see it where she stood. Lamie then stood up and ran up to Rita and gave a brief bow before exclaiming, "Hey Lady Rita! I can maintain my form for fifteen minutes. That means that's ten more minutes of defeating your enemies!"

"I'm very proud," Rita said with a chuckle as she looked at Goldar and said "You have a very good teacher in him. He'll make it so you can be in that form even longer than that."

"Why don't you take a small break? You look exhausted," Rita suggested with a grin on her face

"Yes Lady Rita," Lamie replied with a smile before she ran off back to the courtyard to Goldar. Rita smiled and watched as Lamie and Goldar began to talk and then she felt this odd feeling in her chest. It wasn't a bad feeling, it was just a longing feeling. She then found herself staring at the proud smile on Goldar's face before their eyes locked.

It seemed like an eternity before Rita was able to give him a small grin before she walked away, leaving the master and student alone to sort the feelings raging in her heart.

[End Flashback]


[Location: Rita's Palace (Present)
POV: Rita Repulsa]

It was at that moment that made her truly fall for him. He could have forced Lamie to continue on without any mercy but instead, he picked her up when he was down and cheered her up enough to not give up.

Something she knew the Knights of Specter would not have approved of. That day proved that Goldar had a bigger heart than he had let on and also proved what Rita knew all along.

He was a stern but kind and loyal knight.

That was her Goldar.

And here she was having such little faith in him…

"I can't keep up this desperate act. Goldar can defeat them. I know it…It's time he knows that I have his back and will cheer him on no matter what happens," Rita said with determination as she summoned her clothes onto her body and walked out of her room.


[POV: Loyal Knight Goldar]

Goldar sat on the ground in the middle of his chamber with his eyes closed and his hands resting on his lap, wisps of fiery red energy flowing from his armor as he meditated.

Around him, several cinderblocks from his floor were floating in the air, all of them encased in that same fiery red energy.

But the cinderblocks began to waver before they slammed to the ground. He opened his eyes and let out a deep sigh.

He had been meditating for what seemed to be an eternity and while he was completely healed and at full power, he couldn't focus.

He knew that Rita was upset. He couldn't explain how he knew but he did and he knew what it was that was bothering her.

She didn't want him to go on this mission.

A part of him wished the reason for her not wanting him to leave was because she had no faith in him to get the job done but the true reason was so much worse than that.

She didn't want him to leave. She was scared of losing him because she was in love with him. Goldar knew of her feelings about him as was not as foolish as many others would be in this situation.

He couldn't pinpoint exactly when she fell in love with him but from her actions alone, like worrying about his safety when he was injured, always seeking him out at many different points, the way she had treated his deceased surrogate daughter Lamie among other things but most of all, it was her eyes that gave her away.

Her eyes could never hide her feelings from him. Anytime their eyes locked on one another, he could see her adoration, her disappointment, and her deepest desires and it tore him apart because while he did return the feelings she held for him, he could not voice it.

It was wrong for him to have these feelings for her. She was an Empress and he…He was a Knight of the Specter. He was beneath what her late father would have wanted as a beloved and yet he was drawn to her from the moment they met to now.

If only he could sum up the courage to admit his feelings…

He shook his head to force these thoughts away and began to meditate once again, the square cinderblocks began to float again but it was then his door opened and Rita walked into the room and stood before Goldar, who still sat in the same spot. "Goldar…" Rita began.

Goldar's eyes snapped open and the large blocks slammed to the ground, filling the spots they had risen from. He slowly looked up at her with intense glowing red eyes and murmured "Yes my lady?"

"I've had to battle with myself to talk to you about this but I can't do it anymore…" Rita told him. "With every fiber of my being, I wish I could tell you to remain here and not fight the rangers but I can't…You were born and bred for battle and even if I ordered you to stay, you would still go…Because you believe in the good of our mission."

Goldar slowly rose to his feet and stared at his Empress with a soft gaze but as he opened his mouth, Rita shook her head while she raised a hand to stop him. "You are the powerful Red Ranger killer. You have survived where many have fallen and come out stronger for it but I still fear if you leave here, you will perish and that scares me more than you know. But…It shouldn't. I should have more faith in you and your abilities so I came here to tell you that I have your back no matter what happens."

Goldar stared into Rita's eyes and saw determination as well as worry and that same pesky emotion known as love in them as well, which caused him to smile down at her. "Thank you, Lady Rita. I promise your trust in my skills will not let you down."

"It hasn't before, I doubt it will happen now. W-Well, I better get ready. If you are to go down and fight the rangers, I should plan how to get our future Green Ranger," Rita said with a tiny smile but Goldar could see the small didn't reach her eyes.

"Please let me know when you are to go down, alright?" Rita said.

Goldar nodded and Rita turned around and started to walk off but he could see the fresh tears in her eyes and without hesitation, he grabbed her forearm, stopping her in her tracks. "Lady Rita…Wait…"

Rita turned around to face him but it was then he hesitated.

He tried to remind himself of his station but as he stared into her eyes, he felt the hesitation fade away from his heart and slowly, he brought her into his arms in a soft hug, which caused a small gasp to leave her lips.

"Goldar…You…" Rita trailed off as Goldar held her tighter.

"I know this is unbecoming of someone like me," Goldar began softly. "But please allow me to confess something to you…This mission is important to me but if you asked me to stay, I would…Your happiness means more to me than this duel," Goldar told her softly.

"Why?" Rita asked him softly, separating just enough so he could look her in the eye.

"Because you are important to me…And if something happens and I am to fall, I wish for you to know that I have fallen in love with my Empress. And I understand that it is wrong b-"Goldar was interrupted by Rita's lips pressing into his own, which caused his eyes to widen before involuntarily closing, letting himself indulge in the taste of his Empress.

After a moment of the tender kiss, Rita pulled away from him and murmured "Stay one more night…with me."

"Understood, My Lady…" Goldar replied softly before their lips met in another sweet kiss.


[Location: Holiday Inn
POV: General]

"So, how was the date?"

Tommy frowned a bit as he looked at his brother. "Admittedly, it was great but I felt like I was being watched the entire night," Tommy answered. "It was a little unnerving."

David looked concerned at this. "You don't think it's those monsters again, do you?" David asked.

Tommy wasn't sure.

It felt like he was the bad end of a sniper's scope the entire night. Even now, he felt that way. It was strange and almost annoying to feel like he was being hunted. "I don't know and I don't care. I'm not going to let this deter me," Tommy told his brother. "Especially after finding Kim again."

David let out a small sigh.

"Right, I get it," David grinned. "Ah, young love."

"Love?!" Tommy exclaimed with a blush. "I didn't say anything about love. A crush maybe but that's w-way too soon!"

David laughed before he stood up from the bed. "Come on, let's go grab something to eat. I promised TJ that I would spar with him today."

"TJ, huh?" Tommy asked with a teasing smirk on his face.

David raised an eyebrow. "What?" David asked.

"Nothin'," Tommy denied with his smirk in place. "It's just that you've been hanging out with TJ quite a bit since we've come here."

David looked confused. "TJ is a pretty cool guy. What's the deal?" David asked. Tommy's smirk grew and David let out a sigh. "Oh come on? You really think that?"

"I'm just calling it as I see it!" Tommy explained.

"Well, before you get any more ideas, he's not my type," David clarified. "Plus, he's head over heels in love with Cassie. Now come on, stop your teasing. I'm starving."

Tommy snickered but nodded.

But as he picked himself off of the bed, he heard something approaching. "Tommy! Look out!" David shouted. Tommy was tackled to the ground as a beam of orange energy crashed through the window and shattered against the wall above them, causing a scorch mark in its place.

The two looked at the mark.

"Okay...Not that I didn't believe you before but...fuck," David said, breaking the silence.

"Yeah," Tommy replied.


[Location: Rita's Palace
POV: Loyal Knight Goldar]

Goldar let out a small groan of comfort as he opened his eyes and looked around only to feel something heavy against his bare chest. He glanced down to see his beloved empress resting soundly, her hair cascading across her bare shoulders and onto her chest.

'She looks so peaceful…' Goldar thought to himself as a smile crossed his face. He knew that what had occurred the night before shouldn't have happened. He knew that things between them would be changed forever.

But in a way, he welcomed that change. For so long, he had wanted to be with his Empress and despite the deathly situation, he felt happy and at peace.

And for a moment, he found himself wondering if he really should leave.

He finally gained the love of the one he sought it out of and now that he had it, did he truly want to risk losing that?

He immediately shook his head.

The stakes were far too high and as much as he cared for his Empress, they had lost every encounter to the rangers. They needed a victory and if he could distract the rangers enough to gain the one worthy of the Dragon Coin or even kill his opponents, it could win it all for them.

He had to keep going.

He had to do this.

Absentmindedly, Goldar began to run his hands through Rita's hair slowly, his mind trying to focus on his upcoming task.

"If you keep doing that, I'm going to go back to sleep," Rita mumbled out as she nestled closer to Goldar's furry chest.

"You're awake," Goldar noted as Rita looked at him fully.

"I've been awake," Rita replied. "You think I'm going to fall asleep after an amazing night together?"

Goldar chuckled and said, "Better than I who went to sleep immediately after."

"Looks like you aren't always as vigilant as you state," Rita teased before the two shared a brief laugh.

"Today is the day," Rita said. "I have everything all set for it. You just do what you need to do."

"I shall," Goldar said.

"I know. You've never broken a promise before. I don't expect you to know. Especially after what we've done," Rita muttered.

"I still can't believe we crossed that line. I was expecting a lot of things but not that," Goldar admitted before a rare smirk crossed his face as he added "But believe me when I say, no regrets."

"Damn right, no regrets. Otherwise, I would be sending your bare blue body down to earth with no defense," Rita replied softly before she added "Well then, let's get ready. We have a long day ahead of us."

Rita began to lean off the bed but without warning, Goldar pulled her back onto the bed, which caused her to shriek in surprise. "If it is quite alright with you Lady Rita, I would prefer to stay here a little while longer," Goldar said with a small smile.

Rita blinked in surprise before a toothy smirk appeared on her face and without any further words, she leaned up and kissed Goldar on his lips, with him gladly returning her affections.


[Location: Holiday Inn
POV: Jason Lee Scott]

Jason let out a small groan as he opened his eyes and looked around.

What in the world happened last night?

The last thing he remembered was returning to the restaurant with Ashley and then nothing but haziness. He felt something heavy against his chest and glanced down to see Ashley's head resting on his chest, her arm draped around his torso.

'Did we…?' Jason began before he glanced down and saw that both of them were fully dressed, which made him let out a inward sigh of relief. It wasn't so much that he didn't want to do that with her, he just didn't want it to happen too soon.

They just had their first date after all. Having sex immediately after it wasn't really his style, although he wouldn't be disappointed if it had happened with her. 'This feels…right though,' he thought as he laid his head back on the pillow with a peaceful grin on his face.

He then felt her begin to squirm and let out a small gasp of pain. "J-Jase," she groaned out, her hand gripping his shirt. "D-Don't do this…P-Please," she whispered and it was then Jason saw tears begin to fall from her eyes.

It was then he remembered something about her seeing some sort of vision.

Was she having another one?

Without warning, her body shook and her eyes opened. She pushed herself off his body and took quick, shallow breaths. "Jase…I…" Ashley panted out before she took a deep breath. "You…Y-You're okay…"

"I'm okay," Jason told her as he leaned up off the bed with a comforting smile on his face before he tapped his chest. "See? Still strong and ready to roll."

"Such a dork," Ashley breathed out with a small smile. "It felt so real Jason…You were fighting and I was in this tube watching. I watched you die right in front of me while I begged and pleaded for you to let me out to help you but before a bright light overtook my sight…" Ashley lowered her head as tears fell from her eyes.

Unable to stop himself, Jason wrapped his arms around her and allowed her to weep against him. "It hurt to see it, Jason. It felt like my heart was breaking apart and the worst part is, I don't know why these dreams are happening…" Ashley told tearfully, her voice muffled due to his shirt.

"I'm not going anywhere, Ashley. I promise," Jason told her as he rubbed her back softly.

She pulled away from him and said, "You can't promise that Jason. You're a ranger. Any day can be your last…"

Jason felt his heart clench up faintly at how sad Ashley sounded. This was completely a different Ashley that he was dealing with compared to yesterday night during their date. "You're right," Jason whispered as he wiped a tear away from her face. "I can't promise my survival due to the life I live. I am a Power Ranger and I would do anything to protect everyone…Well…That's a lie. I do this to protect my friends and my family and we happen to be in the world and if it came down to it, I would sacrifice my life to keep any of you safe."

He then let a soft grin form on his face.

"But I will be more careful and take your feelings into consideration with any reckless action that I do, okay?" Jason asked.

"Okay…Okay…I can live with that," Ashley mumbled with a small smile on her face.

Jason returned the smile and admitted, "Great…because I'm starving."

Ashley snorted and said, "Get the menu, let's order room service."

But then, a familiar chime was heard coming from his suit jacket, which was currently hung behind a chair at the table. The two looked at each other before Jason got off the bed and walked to it. He pulled his communicator out from his pocket and said "Jason here."

"Aye-Aye-Ai! Jason come quick! Putties are attacking several locations throughout Angel Grove!"

"All over you said?" Jason asked with surprise.

"Yes. It is madness!" Alpha replied.

"What's the closest pack near me?" Jason asked.

A few beats passed before Alpha said "Three blocks away!"

"Let the others know, I'll make my way down," Jason said before he looked to Ashley and announced, "Duty calls."

"I heard," Ashley said as she looked down at the bed. "Be safe and be smart out there…"

Jason walked to her and without warning, he leaned down and pressed a kiss on her cheek, which caused her to stiffen in surprise, her face immediately heating up. "I'll come back for you. We have a second date after all," Jason whispered into her ear before he leaned away and rushed out the door, leaving a blushing Ashley in his wake.


[Location: Kwan Residence
POV: Trini Kwan]

"I'm so glad that you two are talking again. God knows I missed seeing you around, Zachary," Trini's mom commented as she stood in front of a stove, cooking various foods while Zack and Trini sat at the table side by side.

"I missed you too, Mrs. Kwan," Zack said with a smile. "It feels like returning home after so long."

"This place was always your home Zachary," Jessica told him with warmth in her voice.

Zack glanced at Trini and murmured, "Yeah…It is isn't it?" with a growing smile on his face.

Trini felt her cheeks heat up but she returned his smile with one of her own.

"So...How was the date last night? You two didn't make me a grandmother did you?" Jessica asked, which caused both teens to blink in alarm, both of their faces sporting deep blushes.

"M-Mẹ," Trini whined softly. "All we did was talk!"

"I'm sure, Con-gái," Jessica teased. "Meanwhile, I've been thinking. I'm planning to go see my sister down in Gravesfield. I was going to ask you if you wanted to go to Trini, but now that I know you two are friends again, would like to extend that invitation to you, Zachary. Would you like to come with us?"

"I'm down for that," Zack said. "It'll be just like old times."

Trini nodded in agreement before the familiar chime was suddenly heard from both their wrist communicators. Zack motioned for her to stay while he rushed off into another room.

"In all seriousness, I'm really glad you two are taking your relationship slow after the huge blow-up," Jessica said she turned around to glance at Trini, who had a smile on her face.

"Same here. Despite being this confusing mess, I also feel happy…For the first time in a long, long time," Trini admitted. "It's like a piece of me was filled up with him being back into my life. I feel at peace but at the same time, I am scared of losing it again. Either through a fight or through other means."

"I'm sure you and Zack will be okay. You lost each other for a while but you are were able to find each other again. As long as you two stay by each other's side, you can defeat any foe," Jessica said with a supportive smile before she turned around said "Besides, you two know teamwork very well when it comes to the other Rangers."

Trini's heart dropped. "W-What?"

"Please, I could spot your fighting style anywhere. I helped you hone it remember?" Jessica grinned. "Not to mention, I've watched your friends in their little tournaments and personally watched your father train Zack. A parent always knows."

"I knew I couldn't fool you for long…" Trini sighed.

"Trini, we uh…Have to go somewhere," Zack said as he walked back, his tone of urgency.

"She already knows Zack," Trini revealed.

"Oh…Well…Awww man, Zordon is gonna kill us," Zack groaned out. "But we'll deal with this later. Putties are attacking," Zack said, snapping into a serious mode. "Thing is, it's super close by here so we gotta get a move on."

"Right," Trini said.

"Good luck you two. Look after each other and please be careful," Jessica said.

"We will," Zack and Trini said in unison before both shouted, "Jinx!"

The two smirked and quickly ran out of the house.


[Location: Juice Bar
POV: Kimberly Ann Hart]

"You kids look exhausted," Ernie noted with a smile as he sat down three blueberry milkshakes in front of Billy, Katherine, and Kimberly, all of which smiled in thanks.

"We were on dates," Billy told him.

Unfortunately, Skull was walking past with his two milkshakes and stopped. "Billy you sly dog you. Two gorgeous ladies? I'm totally jealous," Skull laughed.

Billy blushed deeply, as did Katherine but Kimberly looked amused. "Well, he is the perfect gentleman to pull that off," Kimberly said, which caused both Katherine and Billy to look at her with shock, making her laugh hard.

"Relax you two," Kimberly said with a wink before looking at Skull. "I had my own date last night."

"Darn. And here I hoped I could ask you out. Ah well," Skull said with a grin. "Foiled again."

"Get outta here Skull," Kimberly said with a giggle as she slightly nudged the bully, who grinned and walked off to his table, where Bulk was eating some cheese fries.

"So, am I a perfect gentleman?" Billy curiously questioned.

"Duh," Kimberly and Katherine said in unison but it was Katherine who said, "You didn't even kiss me goodnight when you walked me to my door."

"You wanted me to kiss you?" Billy asked with surprise.

"Well...If you had wanted…" Katherine shyly answered.

"I-I didn't want to see so pushy…" Billy mumbled with a blush on his face.

Kimberly giggled and said, "See, perfect gentleman."

"H-How was your date Kimberly?" Katherine asked.

Kimberly looked frustrated. "It was great but the entire time, we felt like someone was watching us. We tried to ignore it but about ten minutes in, It got to the point where we ended it early."

"That sucks, you were looking forward to it," Katherine said with a frown.

"I was but no worries, we plan to have another one at my place pretty soon," Kimberly murmured as she sipped her milkshake.

Billy and Katherine exchanged a look

"Hey gang," Rocky's voice said from behind them, causing the three to see Adam, Aisha, and Rocky coming up behind them.

"Whoa, Adam without Tanya? What's the world coming to?" Katherine joked.

"She and Cassie are hanging out. We decided to have an adventure on our own, explore the place," Adam explained before he grew quiet and asked, "We aren't around each other all the time are we?"

"A good chunk of the time," Kimberly said with a smile. "Don't be ashamed of it, you guys like each other."

"I-I don't like Tanya…What did you hear?" Adam asked with shifty eyes.

"Such a Tsundere," Aisha said with a smirk.

"I am not a Tsundere," Adam replied with a frown.

"So are," Aisha countered.

"No you are," Adam said.

"No you times a hundred," Aisha retorted.

"Lady, gentleman, you're both that word," Rocky said only for both of them to smack him upside the head. "Ow!"

Billy, Katherine, and Kimberly chuckled but without warning, putties began to swarm into the bar, causing all the patrons, minus the rangers and the tournament teens, to scream in terror.

"What the hell?!" Kimberly and Aisha chorused in unison.


[Location: Downtown
POV: Loyal Knight Goldar]

With a flash of golden light, Goldar appeared standing on the roof of the Angel Grove National Bank, one of the tallest buildings in Angel Grove. He watched over the downtown area and let a small smirk appear on his face.

With a raise of his hand, a crimson orb appeared in his palm and with a yell, several thick beams of energy shot out from his palm and pierced straight through several buildings before causing them to explode, causing seven beams of crimson flames to encircle the tower.

Goldar pulled out his sword, stabbed it into the roof, sat down beside it, and began to meditate.

The first part of the plan was completed.

Soon, the second part would begin and the world would see how fragile their protectors truly were.


[Location: Juice Bar
POV: General]

With a yell, Kimberly delivered a dropkick to a Putty's face, which sent it sailing over the counter of the juice bar before she rolled backward and smashed a glass pitcher over the head of another Putty.

Behind her, Billy tackled a Putty off its feet and slammed it into the ground before landing two hard jabs to its face before he rolled over it and onto his feet where he caught a fist of another Putty and tossed it over his shoulder and onto the ground before he hopped up and smashed its throat with his knee.

Rocky leaped over Billy and landed a flying kick at a Putty's face, which sent it flying out of a window before he stumbled forward and swatted two jabs from another Putty and punched it in the throat then elbowed it into the face before he grabbed its head and rammed it into an arcade screen, causing sparks to fly out of it.

Rocky turned around and struck a putty with a roundhouse kick where it stumbled right into a brutal kidney blow from Aisha, which made it stumble back to Rocky's foot, which kicked it forward to Aisha where she delivered a hard left hook, which sent it to the ground.

Rocky gave her a wink, which caused Aisha to blush and wave him off before she ran to the right and rammed her shoulder into a Putty by the window, which caused it to fly out of it, only for another Putty to enter the now destroyed window.

Aisha swayed left and right to avoid several jabs and landed a hard blow to the Putty's stomach then delivered a swift uppercut before she dashed back as two more Putties came her way. She blocked two wild swings from one Putty then ducked a round house kick from another putty. She then grabbed its extended leg, pulled it forward, and landed a right hook to its face, which sent it to the ground.

She then leaned back to avoid a left hook from the other Putty and leaned forward and struck the Putty in the back of the head, sending it crashing to the ground face first where she then stomped on it.

She then ducked another wild haymaker from another Putty and took it into a headlock where Adam began to land several rapid-fire punches to its chest before she pushed it forward to allow Adam to leap up and knee it in its face, which sent it into the air and crashing to the ground.

Adam and Aisha did a quick fist bump before Adam ran past her and delivered a flying knee to the side of the Putty's head, which smashed its head into the wall before he ducked down and swept another Putty off its feet with a leg sweep where he landed two solid elbows to its face.

He then rose and used his forearms and his right knee to block three fists from two Putties and then moved forward and punched one Putty in the face, stomped on the foot of the second, and followed it up with an uppercut with his knee.

Adam jumped up and delivered a kick to the back of the first Putty's head, which sent it to the ground before he stomped on the face of the second Putty. He quickly moved backward and engaged with two more Putties, only for Katherine to leap over him and land a double clothesline to the Putties, sending all three of them to the ground.

Katherine rolled forward and dived through the open window and rolled out onto the street, where three putties stood, and immediately punched one in the stomach and swept the feet from beneath the other two Putties before she rolled on top of them, grabbed their heads and smashed them against the ground.

"That's the last of them," Katherine yelled out.

Billy and Kimberly leaped out of the window as well and said, "Then let's get moving."

"What about us?" Rocky asked as he, Aisha, and Adam peeked out the window.

"You guys get back to the hotel like pronto. We appreciate your help but we can't have you guys injured," Kimberly ordered.

"Alright, we'll go back. You guys be careful," Adam said.

Kimberly gave him a wink and replied, "Aren't we always?"

The three teens quickly vaulted out the window and darted in the direction of the hotel. Just then, their communicators went off. Billy lifted his left wrist and greeted, "Hey Alpha."

"Aye-Ai-Ai! The Red Ranger is currently combating a large amount of Putties. Yellow Ranger and Black Ranger are nearly finished in their area so they will join you shortly. Please assist the Red Ranger immediately!" Alpha said.

"Alright," Billy said before he looked to Kimberly and Katherine and said, "Well ladies, let's morph and get to Jason."

"Agreed!" The two said in unison before the trio pulled out their morphers and shouted, "It's Morphin Time!"


[Location: Downtown
POV: Mighty Morphin Red Ranger]

Red delivered a flying kick to a Putty's chest before he landed and blocked two jabs from another Putty. He nailed it in the face with a right hook. He grabbed the Putty and moved it in front of him as he pulled out his Blade Blaster and forced it to run as a shield as he fired repeatedly into the pack of Putties in front of him.

Several Putties fell to the beams of red energy colliding into their chest but some returned fire with their own weapon, nailing the captured Putty in the chest repeatedly before it crumbled into clay, which forced Red to roll to the left behind a mailbox to avoid the dull gray energy beams from the Putties.

Red then hopped onto the mailbox then vaulted himself into the air where he summoned his Power Sword and fired his blaster repeatedly, destroying three more Putties before he landed on the ground and swung his Power Sword at the legs of one Putty, cutting it down to size before he fired his blaster at its head, ending its existence.

Red then turned around and blocked two clay swords from two Putties with his sword and fired two shots into their chests before he pushed their swords into the air and slashed each of their chests twice, also ending their existence.

Red panted and looked around to see if there were any more Putties around. When none appeared, Red sighed in relief, dismissed his Power Sword, and holstered his Blade Blaster. "Alpha, one pack of Putties has been dealt with," Red announced into his communicator.

"That is good Red Ranger but there are still ma-"

Alpha's voice was immediately drowned out by a large bolt of red energy that collided against the building beside him, causing it to explode and sending Red backward at high speed through the windows of a small coffee shop where he crashed against the countertop.

Red shakily rose to his feet and stumbled forward as ashes floated around him like snow.

Just then, blue, pink, and violet beams of energy slammed down beside him before they exploded, revealing his teammates.

"Sorry it took us so long," Blue apologized with a hand on Red's shoulder.

"You guys came…That's all that matters to me," Red replied.

Just then, Black and Yellow appeared in front of Red in their respective bolt of energy. "Sorry, we're late. Traffic," Black apologized.

"Do forgive us," Yellow said with a nod.

"No need…We're all here and we're all ok," Red said.

And then they heard it.

The sounds of large wings flapping.

The rangers watched as a figure landed a few feet before them, his large midnight blue colored wings spread wide before retracting, his golden armor glowing despite the bleak grey that was floating around them.

"Afternoon Rangers," Goldar greeted. "Allow me to formally introduce myself. My name is Goldar. Loyal Knight to Empress Rita and I am here to challenge you all to combat."


[Location: Holiday Inn
POV: General]

"It is pandemonium out in Angel Grove today where monsters are attacking multiple areas with several buildings being destroyed!" the news reporter exclaimed as a helicopter hovered around several locations on the television while Ashley watched with fear.

It was then the power went out in the room.

"What in the world?" Ashley muttered to herself as she looked around. "Power went out? On a sunny day? That's bizarre…"

It was then she could hear the faint sounds of screaming coming from the lower floors and the cold icy hand of fear gripped her heart. She quickly ran out of the room and saw Tommy and David in the hallway as well.

"Guys! What's going on?" Ashley said.

"No idea," David said.

Just then, Cassie, TJ, and Tanya came running up the stairs with panicked looks on their faces. "The monsters are attacking the building!" Cassie exclaimed.

"What?!" Ashley, David, and Tommy exclaimed in shock.

"We were going out to see more of the town where they appeared out of nowhere," TJ explained.

"Fuck…This has to be because of us again," Tommy realized.

"It must be," David said as he crossed his arms. "But why? Why would they want us of all people?"

"No idea but we need to get out of here because the Rangers won't be able to save us. They are all over Angel Grove fighting these things. We're on our own," Ashley said.

"Shit…So we're going to have to fight our way out then…Doable but tough," Tanya said as she looked at Ashley.

"Those things are pathetically weak however there are a lot of them. Our bodies would give out to exhaustion at some point," TJ said. "But if that is what we must do, very well."

"We have no choice but to be so let's do it," David said.

"This outta be fun," Tommy said with a grin.

"We have two different definitions of fun," TJ wryly joked.

"And what about the other people here?" Tanya asked. "Should we rescue them?"

"Shit, I didn't think of that…" Ashley said with a scowl. "We should…But if we defeat the monsters, then that is saving them. Defeat them first to save civilians."

"Wow, we sound like true heroes here," Cassie said with an excited smile.

"Right?!" Tanya said. "Well gang, we got some monsters to hunt!"

"Let's do it," Ashley said.


[Location: Downtown
POV: Mighty Morphin Power Rangers]

"All you had to do was ask, Goldar. Not cause mass panic," Black said.

Goldar chuckled and explained, "This was the best way to get your attention. Aren't you glad I didn't do anything more?"

"That building…There were innocents in there!" Red shouted. "They didn't deserve to die!"

"Do you think so lowly of me that I would destroy buildings with lives within them?" Goldar questioned.

"Well, there is a list of all the bullshit you and Rita put us through!" Black pointed out.

"Constant monster attacks, attempts to destroy our team on the inside, and using other innocents as pawns in your games. So yes, we believe you have the capacity for such a heinous act!" Blue shouted.

"I am a being of honor, Rangers," Goldar calmly replied. "If there any lives that will take, it will be yours…"

"That'll be a cold day in hell," Yellow hissed.

"Before we begin, tell me, Rangers…Have any of you ever been in love?" Goldar suddenly asked.

The rangers looked at each other in confusion but it was Black who took a step forward and exclaimed, "What does that have to do with anything?!"

"More than you know, Black Ranger," Goldar replied. "For you see, I have fallen in love with the one that will rule this planet. I have stood by and watched by as your rangers have caused her endless strife and as someone who loves her, I am willing to do all that I can to ensure her victory and wipe away her frustrations…" Goldar reached out and with a flash of light, his blade appeared in his hand. He gripped the hilt and swung it once, causing a small wave of golden light to appear before him before he pointed it at the rangers. "I am here, not only as her loyal knight but as a warrior driven by her love and devotion…You all have experienced beings that lived for their own selfish means…Now, let me show you what a warrior fighting for love can accomplish."

And with those words, Goldar dashed forward.

"Rangers, advance!" Red shouted.

With a yell, the six Power Rangers charged forward.


Angel Grove – Downtown
Hooded Figure

Standing on the roof in the distance, the hooded figure removed their eyes from the scope and said, "It's beginning…"

The figure gripped her hood and slid it down to reveal Ashley's face, her cold eyes gazing at the area where Goldar and the Rangers began combat as the gentle breeze blew against her, causing her cloak and her short brown hair to flow against the breeze.

Ashley let out a deep breath and said, "It's time…Let's hope I can change the outcome of this battle before it's too late."

And with a leap, she vanished in a gold and orange burst of energy.