His close friend since childhood was slowly slipping away.

Shaking his head in frustration, Adam ran his fingers through his curly raven hair, and clenched a few locks of it, holding on tightly. Over and over in his mind, the same words resounded.

This is all my fault!

True, it wasn't a very logical conclusion to draw. Nonetheless, he couldn't deny the fact that, if it were him in the fight against Contagion, he would have healed just like the other Terran Rangers. Yet, that wasn't the case. True, it wasn't his fault that he was injured, yet he certainly could have insisted on reclaiming the Green Terra Power, or at least that she abandon it. There were signs of Aisha's distress. She was rather sickly the past few days. Why couldn't he read the signs? Wasn't he supposed to be her friend, looking out for her?

"I think it's time you got some sleep," said a gentle voice, as slender arms wrapped around Adam's waist. Tanya rested her chin on his broad shoulder, her dark curls brushing against his cheek softly.

"There's no way I'll be able to sleep," Adam muttered, resting his head against Tanya's, "Not when Aisha's hanging on by a thread."

"There's nothing you can do for her now," Tanya reminded him. She lifted her head from his shoulder, and slowly massaged his neck in order to relax him.

It didn't work, though.

"Adam, don't do this," Tanya pleaded, walking in front of him and gazing into his deep brown eyes, "You need to get some rest."

Almost unconsciously, Adam turned his eyes away from Tanya, resting them on the green crystal shard still hovering on a console, accompanied by Zack's white shard.

"That crystal is mine," he whispered, "I'm the one who should have used it. It's my destiny... not hers! I'm the one who put Aisha in danger."

"Adam, you're not making any sense," Tanya said sternly, grasping his upper arm and pulling him off the stool gently. "I'll watch Aisha, and I promise you, I'll get you if there's even the slightest change. Your heart is still weak, you know. Pushing yourself too far will only make things worse."

Adam frowned. He hated being babied, but he saw the logic in Tanya's words. He weakly walked across the CAC towards the back rooms, casting one final glance toward the green Zeo shard.

His shard.

Suddenly, a pulse of green light flashed from the core of the crystal. Adam blinked, and kept his gaze upon the crystal. The energy remained steady.

"Tanya," he whispered, keeping his eyes on the crystal, "is there something strange about the green crystal?"

Tanya glanced at her boyfriend worriedly, and then turned back to the crystal. She shrugged. "Adam, there's nothing strange about it. You're... starting to scare me."

Adam forced a grin on his face. "Maybe I'm more tired than I thought."

"Get some rest," Tanya insisted, "while things are quiet around here."

With a heavy sigh, Adam conceded to his girlfriend's wishes, dragging his feet towards the rooms. As he walked absently through the narrow hallways, he was startled by the soft thud of shoes against the tiled floor. His eyes narrowing in confusion, he turned the corner, and saw Jason marching along wearily, his muscular arms folded tightly over his chest, and a pensive, restless expression on his face.

Jason was so contained in his own thoughts, he didn't notice Adam's arrival.

"Did you at least try to get some rest?" Adam asked, his voice causing the Black Ranger to whirl his head around in surprise.

Jason's frown deepened. "No luck," he muttered, shaking his head, "I'm so tired, I feel like a zombie... but I can't relax enough to fall asleep, or even sit still. I've gotta burn off this anxiety."

Jason sighed, and leaned heavily against the wall. "I can't help feeling that... this is all my fault."

Adam blinked, a wry smile crossing his face. "How much you wanna bet everyone here is ready to claim responsibility?"

Jason shrugged. "I don't know... I feel like I should have taken the time to get to know Aisha better. Maybe if I had paid more attention to her, then I would have seen the signs. I should have noticed something wasn't quite right with her! You saw those wounds Billy revealed earlier! This has been going on ever since she received the Power!"

Jason noticed Adam cringe at the mention of the shard. He mentally kicked himself. "Hey, Adam..."

"Don't worry about it," the weary ex-Ranger stated, a weak smile on his face, "Just like we all have this feeling of guilt, we're all stubborn about it. I know I can't convince you that you are not to blame for all this, and the same goes for me."

Just then, one of the nearby doors creaked open, and Katherine stepped into the hallway. Her usually brilliant sky-blue eyes were dull and red... a result from exhaustion, worry, and tears... and her hair hung lifelessly around her shoulders. She blinked in surprise when she noticed Adam and Jason just outside her room.

"I'm sorry," Jason said, his entire attention turning to her, "did we wake you?"

She smiled dully. "Don't worry about it, Jase. I wasn't getting any sleep. In fact, I didn't even hear you guys."

Adam then yawned loudly, shaking his head to reorient himself. "Well, I'm gonna go find an empty bed, and see if maybe I can get a bit of rest today. I'll see you two later."

With that, Adam disappeared down the hall, leaving Jason and Katherine alone at the entrance to her room.

"So," Kat said quietly, leaning on the door frame, "what were you two talking about?"

"Guilt and responsibility," Jason confessed. Kat nodded.

"I know what that feels like," Kat affirmed, wrapping her arms around her trembling body, "I can't stand not being able to help in any way. I mean, she's a dear friend, and there is nothing I can do to keep her alive. Every time I step into the main CAC, I feel like I'm just in everyone's way. There's a blanket of gloom and hopelessness in there, and I feel like I'm drowning."

Jason bit his lip when he saw Katherine withdraw. He had noticed that was how she dealt with stress... closing herself off from everything. Instead of crying, or pounding her fist into a wall, she just stood still, her gaze glassy and unfocused, and a worn expression on her face.

It happened whenever she felt bad about herself... that she wasn't useful, or wasn't worthy, or wasn't able to achieve what everyone else expected of her.

Blankly, Jason recognized that personality trait as belonging to another Ranger. One who needed all the help he could get to finally crack through the shell of self-doubt and perceived uselessness, in order to nurture confidence and emotional strength.

Tommy.

Just like Tommy needed help realizing his potential, so did Katherine... and just like all those years ago, it was Jason who would be instrumental in forging a great warrior with a strong heart.

But this time, things were different. Tommy was a friend, and grew into a brother. Katherine's situation is far more delicate. She started as a friend, and now she was more than just that.

Dare he say it... he was falling in love with her.

Slowly, Jason moved towards the distraught Katherine. She glanced up at him, feeling her slight trembling build at the sight of his warm smile.

"Katherine," he said gently, "it's okay to cry. Just... let it out. Your frustrations, fears, doubts, anger, guilt... and whatever else you can muster."

Katherine blinked, unable to hold back the torrent any longer. His gentle smile and open demeanor easily demolished all the barriers she had erected.

She suddenly threw her arms around his neck, desperately hanging on as the tears flowed. All the anxieties that were consuming her whole were released in a tempest.

Jason braved the storm for her sake, soothingly stroking her flaxen hair and rocking her gently. Through helping her cope, he found the strength to keep himself steadfast.

Alone, they were holding on to some feeling of comfort with their fingertips... but together, they were strong.

Tommy lay upon his bed, his arms folded over his chest, and his eyes closed. He had even regulated his breathing, taking in air slowly and sparingly. He was still, save for the rhythmic rise and fall of his broad chest.

But... he wasn't asleep.

He was trying desperately, but without success.

Still, he refused to open his eyes. He didn't want to see the world as it was. It was simply too much to bear.

He was charged with the leadership of the Terran Power Rangers... a team guided by Destiny to save not just their universe, but the entire Multiverse.

A team that was falling apart around him.

Adam had been critically injured. Alexis' bull-headed stubbornness was the only thing that kept her alive during the ordeal. Billy and Zack were missing, without having any means to really contact the Rangers effectively...

and Aisha was rotting away on a cold cot.

Where had he gone wrong? Why was his team coming apart at the seams? He hated to accept it... but it was true: they got lucky. Had Goldar and Rito been at peak health, the weakened Power Rangers wouldn't have succeeded. He and Katherine wouldn't have been able to reach Alexis in time.

He cringed to think of what could have happened then. But he knew it included the total devastation of the school area, where Shade was attacking...and it possibly included the demise of the brash Purple Ranger.

In fact, it was luck that spared them from an epidemic. True, the Terran Rangers were able to heal, but what would have happened had the deadly virus spread? It could have wiped out Angel Grove in a matter of hours! What if the other non-Rangers didn't get away in time? Would Billy, Tanya, Adam, and Rocky have been slowly rotting away with an indomitable fever?

*Tommy, would you please stop dwelling on the worst-case scenario?* a clearly weary voice said in his mind, *It's really distracting.*

Tommy blinked, sitting up in his bed. Kim? Is that you?

*No, it's the Spirit of Christmas Past.*

Kim, what are you doing in my mind?

*Well, it's pretty difficult for me to cut off your anguish. Your brooding is so strong, you're broadcasting it! Even a weak telepath like me can pick it up, without even trying. You really need to calm yourself.*

Tommy frowned, leaning back on his bead. Easier said than done.

*Care to 'talk' about it?*

Not really.

*Well... have it your way...*

Tommy felt the soothing presence of Kimberly's mind-voice slip away, leaving him cold and alone once again. He didn't like it.

Kim? Can you hear me? he thought.

*I thought you said you didn't want to talk.* she commented wryly.

Tommy smiled. Well... I guess I changed my mind. But, if you wanted to get some sleep...

*Don't be silly. Besides, how can I sleep, knowing how distraught you are?*

Despite the troubles plaguing the Red Terran Ranger, his smile broadened. He could feel Kim's love for him through their mental communication. He had to admit, had it been anyone else granted the ability to touch his mind so freely, he would have likely resented the breach of privacy. But since it was Kimberly... he welcomed her mind into his. It was just one other way in which they were connected.

One other way in which they were one.

*So, what do you want to talk about?*

Anything. Whatever comes to mind.

Kim was silent for a moment. *Well... how about that promise ring you gave me? It's never too early to start planning out what we're going to do with our lives...*

Tommy felt his spirits rise, as his thoughts turned from tormented brooding to the wonderful prospects of his future with Kimberly. As usual, she had skillfully lightened the load weighing him down, freeing him... at least for a moment... from the anxieties that plagued him.

For those brief moments, when they exchanged the contents of their hearts and souls so freely over this mental rapport, Tommy was disconnected from his present grief.

He looked to the future... with an optimism that was quite uncharacteristic of the pensive young man.

He welcomed it into his mind and heart... just like he welcomed her.

"I'm really sorry we were unable to obtain any materia for Yuffie," Billy stated, pulling the Shield, Time, and Typoon materia spheres from his weapon and armlet, "I hope she isn't too disappointed."

Cid Highwind chuckled, gnawing on the stub of a cigar hanging from his lips. "She's too sick to even process what's going on," he pointed out, "B'sides, I don't think she'll mind. After all, the materia you used against Jenova-Obsidian was hers."

Billy blinked in surprise. "Really? I thought she was quite possessive of her materia."

Cid smirked. "She is, but materia gains value and power the more it's used in battle. You broke it in, so to speak. So, you paid her back in your own way."

Billy considered this, pulling off the Crystal Bangle that served as an armor. He handed it to the pilot, who tossed it absently into a chest of other armlets and weapons. Billy then prepared to throw his Partisan into the chest, but Cid grabbed his shoulder to prevent him from doing so.

"Don't bother," Cid said, folding his arms, "I've already got the Venus Gospel. I don't need another. Just keep it, for a souvenir or somethin'."

Billy smiled. "Thank you. I'm certain it'll come in handy."

"Oh," said Cid, pulling a rifle from his leather belt, "and when you see that friend of yours, give this back to 'im. I tried to tell 'im he could keep it, but he pretty much ignored me."

"Uh, sorry about that," Billy said, accepting the weapon, "he's very much preoccupied."

Cid shrugged. "Don' mean $#!% to me, Kid. You'd have to work pretty hard to get to Cid Highwind."

Billy accepted this, preparing to leave the ship's storage closet with Cid. However, as soon as they reached the door, Zack burst in, his face the very picture of focus and dedication.

"Zack?" Billy said in surprise.

"I've been looking everywhere for you two," Zack huffed, glancing from Billy to Cid, "We need to go to Mideel, immediately."

Cid's eyebrow rose. "Who the #%$@ do you think you are, tellin' me where to take my ship?!"

Zack ignored Cid's apparent fury. "The Holy Materia told me that's where the key to saving Aisha is, so that's where I'm going."

Billy's eyes widened. "What's the cure, Zack?"

Zack's eyes narrowed. "The Lifestream."

Cid then pushed his way passed the shorter men, and made his way towards the bridge. "It'll take about an hour to get to Mideel from here," he called to them, "so make yourselves comfortable."

Zack nodded, and heavily sat down on a large box within the storage room. Billy sat next to him.

"So," he said, "how are we going to save Aisha?"

Zack didn't raise his eyes to meet Billy's inquiring gaze. "I'm going to have to jump into the Lifestream."

"But Zack, that's lethal!" Billy argued, "Is that what the Holy Materia suggested?"

Zack nodded. "It's Aisha's only chance. Therefore, it's our only choice."

*Adam Park, you must listen to me!*

Adam's heavy eyelids sprang open, and he stared at the darkened ceiling in amazement.

Was it his imagination, or was someone speaking to him?

"Man, I must really be tired," he whispered, rubbing his eyes with his hands. He jumped when he saw a flash of white light within his room.

The light intensified, and increased until it was nearing six feet in height. Then, it stretched and molded, forming the shape of a woman. She wore a long, loose white robe, golden shoulder plate, and a golden clasp kept her flowing black hair in a ponytail. Ageless eyes fixated on the young man, and a neutral expression crossed her features.

Adam's mouth opened slightly, but he couldn't find any words for the apparition.

"Adam, you must listen to me," she repeated, her urgent stare never wavering from the astonished former Ranger, "I don't have much time."

"Who are you?" he managed to choke.

"It is not significant," she replied, extending her arm. Her palm flashed with green light, and an image appeared. A green crystal, about the size of a thumb, floated above her palm, spinning on its axis.

Adam recognized it as the green Zeo shard, shrunken to the size it maintained while inside his body.

"You are the Green Terran Ranger," she explained, "You have been chosen, and you have a great destiny to fulfil. You must reclaim the crystal, or the Terran Rangers are doomed."

"Excuse me?"

"The Dark One is coming," she said, enclosing her hand into a fist. The image of the crystal vanished. "He is more powerful than you can imagine. He will come, and he will try to gain the Zeo Crystal. Only the full power of Terra can defeat him. Without a Green Ranger, this entire universe will surely fall."

"But..."

"No argument," she said, her sharp tone invoking unquestioned obedience, "The Zeo Crystal will not harm you. In fact, it will help your heart to heal. Only you can safely wield the gem. While it will do harm to others, it will make you strong. It was an unforeseen tragedy that caused the crystal to materialize within you. Trust me... such an event shall not occur again."

Adam swallowed, confusion still marring his thoughts. He had never seen this woman before, yet for some reason... she seemed familiar. And very authoritative.

"Take back the crystal now," she said, her form vanishing from the room, "Take back your destiny..."

Adam stared at the spot where the strange apparition stood just moments ago. He then leaned back against the wall, folding his arms tightly.

He was certain it wasn't a dream. No... he didn't have the imagination for it.

But... couldn't it have been a trick? Could someone be trying to place him in danger, by getting himself killed with the Zeo shard? He did believe it was his destiny, but was he ready for it?

Somehow, he knew he was. And so, he quietly rose from his bed, and slipped out of the room, headed for the main chamber of the CAC.

"Just hold on, Aisha," Tanya said quietly, her hands pressed against the corner of the med-unit. Tanya laid her entire weight into her arms, the terrible circumstances of that day thoroughly exhausting her.

Tanya took a seat on the stool Adam had abandoned, and folded her arms in her lap. For a few more minutes, she gazed at Aisha's serene face.

Every time she saw Aisha's face, she could still see the cherubic visage of the young Aisha, that brought her to the United States to join the Power Rangers.

Even though Tanya never had the opportunity to actually become a Power Ranger, she was forever grateful to young Aisha, who was willing to leave the life she had lead behind for the good of the wild life in the African savanna. And, even though Tanya had remained on the sidelines, she couldn't deny how blessed she had been since her move to Angel Grove.

Firstly, she was rescued from the Sandman. Thanks to the Power Rangers, she was freed from the fate of being the property of the alien being Coppelius, and she was also reunited with her long-lost parents, who had been captured by the creature years ago.

Also, she had become a part of a cause that transcended everything Tanya had ever known before. She didn't wear the armor, but she nonetheless contributed to the work the Power Rangers do: protecting Angel Grove, and the world, from whatever evil may face it. Just to be chosen for such a responsibility was an incredible honor. There were only a dozen or so individuals granted the privilege of Power Ranger membership, whether in the core group of morphed warriors, or the extended Power Ranger family, consisting of all those who work beside those brave teenagers.

And finally... although no less significantly... she met Adam Park.

None of these wonderful blessings ever would have occurred, had Aisha not walked into her life. She owed Aisha so much... for everything she had given her. And no matter how she tried, Tanya couldn't repay her. She couldn't even keep her alive.

Tanya felt a strange electricity in the air, pulling her out of her dismal reflections urgently. She gasped when she saw Adam standing beside the floating green Zeo shard, staring into its energy core blankly.

"Adam!" she cried, leaping off the stool and racing to his side, "What are you doing?"

"Getting my destiny back on track," he responded evenly. Tanya's jaw dropped when she saw him reach his hand out towards the gem.

"Are you crazy?!" she demanded, grabbing his other arm and pulling him away from the crystal. Adam turned to her, his dark eyes surveying the angst in Tanya's expression.

"Tanya, I have to do this," he said, gently releasing her fingers from his arm, "I'm the Green Ranger. I'm the only Green Terran Ranger. No one else can do it for me."

"But you can get yourself killed," she protested, forcing the panic from her voice, "There's no need to do this now. The battle's over. You can wait until Billy's run some more tests, to make sure you won't be putting yourself in danger. And you're under so much stress because of Aisha's condition! This just isn't a good time for this!"

Adam shook his head, clasping both of Tanya's hands in his. "Tanya, this probably sounds hard to believe, but I know the crystal won't hurt me. In fact, it'll probably help me. It's a part of me now... and it has been since I accepted it months ago. I have to take it back, and there's no time like the present."

With that, Adam gently brushed his lips against hers in a reassuring kiss, and turned towards the crystal. Taking a deep breath, he reached out and touched his fingertips to the gem. It immediately shrank to its smaller size. Adam clasped the gem tightly, and slowly moved it towards his chest, holding his breath. He exhaled forcefully as the crystal passed through his clothing and flesh, embedding itself inside his heart. Instantly, a small cyclone formed at Adam's feet, forcing Tanya to step away from him, shielding her eyes from the intense green light that saturated the magical cyclone. The cyclone was so powerful, the entire chamber was filled with powerful winds. The mayhem weakened after a few long moments, and Tanya held her breath in anticipation.

After the bright light and wind faded, Adam stood before her, once again donned in the form-fitting green and gold armor of the Green Terran Ranger.

"I... I'm okay," he gasped, "Just... gotta catch my breath..."

Tanya shook her head, grabbing his arm and wrapping it around her shoulder to support him. He leaned heavily against his girlfriend, pushing passed the wave of disorientation that crashed through his mind and body.

Finally, after taking a few deep breaths, Adam pulled away from Tanya, standing on his own strength. Slowly, his gloved hands rose to his helmet, undoing the latches and pulling it off. Sweat sat on his face, and he breathed heavily with the exertion... but a wide grin brightened his face.

Tanya sighed in relief, wrapping her arms around his neck. "You really are okay."

The moment she said those calming words, the alarm claxons sounded from within the med-unit. Adam turned on his heels, and the two teens watched in horror as the bars that showed Aisha's heart rate slowed.

"Oh God," Tanya whispered, "we're losing her!"

Adam immediately ran to a nearby console, and hit the all-alert button. Sirens screamed to life, alerting all the Rangers within the CAC that an emergency was taking place. Moments later, the exhausted and panicked group assembled around the med-unit.

"WHAT?!" Rocky cried, coming to a complete stop once he entered the CAC. Katherine, Jason, Tommy, Kimberly, and Alexis stopped behind him, each one blatantly shocked by the sight.

Standing beside the med-unit was the Green Terran Ranger, with his helmet resting in the nook of his arm.

"Adam!" Jason said, blinking, "What did you do?"

"We'll talk about this later, guys," he said, his brow furrowing as his eyes surveyed the information screen on the med-unit, "She's crashing!"

"Is there anything any of us can do?" Tommy asked, stepping forward.

Adam swallowed, his eyes darting from the computer screen, to Aisha, to his leader's determined eyes. "Tommy," he whispered anxiously, "I... I don't think she's going to make it..."

He swallowed hard, gazing within the bubbling emerald lava tumbling within the confines of the Mako lake. It was thick and heavy... hot and obscure. There was no way to know what would happen when the magical liquid touched his tender skin. There was no way to know what would happen to his mind, to be immersed in such power.

Once he dove in, there was no going back.

He felt a hand timidly touch his shoulder. "Listen, Zack, I can come with you..."

Zack immediately shook his head. "No way, Billy. There's no need for us both to risk our lives." He turned to his friend, wearing a faint grin. "Besides, if I don't make it, I'm counting on you to figure out another cure for Aisha."

Billy smiled, taking his hand off Zack's shoulder and extending it in a handshake. Zack gripped it firmly, taking a deep breath.

"Good luck," Billy uttered.

"Yeah!" called a rowdy voice, "Watch yourself, Kid!"

Zack looked to the side, and smiled at the entire main crew of the Highwind. Vincent, Yuffie, Cid, Barrett, Red XIII, Cait Sith, Tifa, and Cloud were all there, lending their support. Zack was infinitely grateful that they delayed their mission to stop Sephiroth just slightly, to give as much assistance and assurance as possible.

Still... from here on in, he was on his own.

"Remember what I told you," Cloud said firmly, his grip tightening on Tifa's hand. Zack nodded, pursing his lips tightly as he turned back to the pool of liquid fire.

"Fools rush in where Angels fear to tread," he whispered, the light of the green pool dancing in his dark eyes.

"Excuse me?" Billy said, frowning slightly.

Zack shrugged. "Something from English class. It just popped into my head. Kinda fits, huh?"

"I wouldn't call you a fool, Zack."

"Maybe I am," he reflected, "Maybe that's why it has taken me so long to..."

He paused, shaking off the thought. "Well, here goes."

He took a deep breath, holding it in his lungs, and his fingers went up to pinch his nose closed. Then, he bounded towards the lake, leaping in feet-first.

He sank slowly into the thick liquid, feeling the hot energy burning his skin painfully. He didn't dare open his eyes, knowing full well the toxic properties of the Mako fountain. After time, the intense heat that ravaged his skin dulled to a irritation, but he soon felt his lungs burning for fresh air.

He continued sinking, until the darkness of his eyelids was replaced by a brilliant green Mako flash.

"I'm tellin' ya, Man, she's perfect!"

Jason smirked, trying his best to casually turn around in his seat, and get a better look at the young woman. He could tell she was beautiful and graceful, from the warm-up exercises she performed on the mat. Long legs stretched in a full split, and as she reached to touch each toe, flowing raven tresses swept about her shoulders.

"I don't know, Zack," Jason sighed, turning back around to face his companion. He lifted his fountain soda, and took a long sip. "Angela's in my Trigonometry class. She's... not that nice of a person. She certainly doesn't seem to like jokesters."

Zack had a starry look in his eyes, sipping his root beer float through a long straw. He rested his cheek on his balled fist, a goofy grin on his face.

"Zack?" Jason uttered, waving his hand in front of his friend's eyes. "Hello?"

Zack blinked, dropping the straw from his lips. "Huh?"

Jason chuckled. "Sheesh! One pretty face, and suddenly your mind is somewhere in the Andromeda galaxy."

"I can't help it. I'm in love."

Jason rolled his eyes. "But you don't even know her! I thought your criteria for the perfect woman included rapier wit, spirit, enough energy for her to keep up with you, and supreme dancing skills. All you know about Angela is that she's pretty."

Zack shrugged. "Hey, I'm flexible."

Jason groaned at the comment. "I don't think you're being reasonable."

Zack grinned roguishly, rising from his seat. "Hey, if it turns out she can't dance, all I have to do is teach her. Right?"

Jason threw up his hands in surrender, and Zack strolled over to Angela with his best, suave stride. He then spun on his heels, snapping his fingers as he came to a stop. Wearing his most disarming grin, he squatted on the floor beside her.

She threw him the coldest glare he had ever seen.

Zack didn't let that derail him. "You're Angela, right?"

She turned away from him, returning to her stretches.

"I'm Zack," he said, following her eyes with his, "Zack Taylor. Certified great guy!"

Angela paused from her warm-up for a moment, locking eyes with him. "I'm not impressed, either by your smooth talking, or your smooth moves. Goodbye."

Stunned, Zack tried to brush the stinging remarks as if they were insignificant. "Well, I see you're busy now. I'll see you later."

She didn't acknowledge him when he left.

"Wow," Jason whispered, as Zack to a seat again at their table, "that was harsh."

"Not really," Zack said, his grin returning, "She did recognize that I was smooth. I'll get through to her... sooner or later."

"...and this is Aisha Campbell."

The young man with ear-length dreadlocks flashed his most charming smile, extending his hand. The short young woman accepted, a dazzling smile on her chocolate lips, and a sparkle of energy in her dark eyes.

"Wow," said another young man, with copper-brown hair and a red cotton sweatshirt, "I can't believe the six of you are the Power Rangers!"

Zack shrugged, stepping back a few feet to join the group behind him. Kimberly Hart, Jason Lee, Tommy Oliver, Trini Kwan, Zack Taylor, and Billy Mitchell were the six teens chosen to stop Rita Repulsa, and later Lord Zedd, from conquering the planet Earth. They were the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.

Standing across from them were Aisha Campbell, Rocky DeSantos, and Adam Park... three ninja finalists who were kidnapped by Goldar in another failed attempt to defeat the Power Rangers. Fortunately for them, the Blue, Pink, and White Rangers were able to rescue them... but not before accidentally revealing the vital secret of their identities.

Once the three were unmasked, it didn't take a genius to figure out the rest of the team. So, it was best to simply conduct formal introductions.

Zack had known Rocky, Aisha, and Adam before this moment. He was at the park when Kimberly and Aisha had both helped save a baby in a runaway stroller. But this time, he was formally introduced. These three teens were definitely something special.

And one look into Aisha's vibrant, deep brown eyes told him that they would certainly become good friends.

With an enthusiastic grin on his face, Zack managed to zip the overstuffed duffel bag. Throwing an observatory glance around his disheveled room, he decided that he was finished packing.

Exhausted, Zack fell upon his bed, staring at the ceiling. In just a few short hours, he'd be on a plane to Switzerland with Jason and Trini, in order to attend the Peace Conference. He was still awed by the fact that he was chosen out of the hundreds of worthy teens in the district. It was the chance of a lifetime... meeting new people, learning about new cultures, and working for the greatest cause conceivable. Peace.

Still, it would be tough to leave Angel Grove behind. Leaving behind friends like Tommy, Kimberly, and Billy wasn't going to be easy, and now that Alexis was in Philadelphia, he'd probably never see her again. Also, he'd most likely lose contact with Angela. His patience with their tenuous relationship was running thin, and considering her flighty attention span, he doubted she'd want to put in the effort to keep in touch.

And then were Aisha, Rocky and Adam. Three fabulous, spirited teens. If circumstances had been different, he was sure the entire group of students would have been the closest friends ever.

He knew, without a doubt, that they'd be excellent Power Rangers, carrying on for the three that were moving on to different things.

But he couldn't help but wonder about what could have been. Had all ten teens remained in Angel Grove, what incredible odds they could have conquered! Seven Power Rangers, and three great support-members.

Too bad it'd never happen.

The winter air was cold in Philadelphia. Considering how long ago it was that Zack moved to California, it was difficult to remember the effect of frosty air and snowdrifts. Still, it was beautiful... the white blanket delicately coating the bare branches of trees, and soft ivory flakes floating to the ground slowly. They weren't in a rush.

Despite the frigid weather, Zack felt the warmth of friendship. Being enclosed in a circle of ten terrific friends, all standing by a frozen park lake, would do that to anybody.

It was a time of farewells. Three were moving across the Atlantic, one was remaining in Pennsylvania. Six would stand firm in Angel Grove, combating evil in whatever shape it took.

Then Tommy, the recently appointed White Ranger, raised his hand, and thrust it in the center of close-knit companions. "One last time," he said, "for all of us. We're united in duty..."

"We're bonded in love," added the compassionate Kimberly, placing her hand on his.

"We serve and protect," chimed the dazzling Aisha, joining in.

"With courage and honor," uttered the noble Adam.

"We fight for right," orated the comical Rocky.

"And stand side by side," Zack himself contributed, lying his gloved hand atop Rocky's.

"Guided by wisdom," offered the brilliant Billy.

"Joined by friendship," whispered gentle Trini.

"Through thick and through thin," stated the fiery Alexis.

"Now and forever," finished strong Jason.

"POWER RANGERS!!" they all cried, throwing their hands into the air.

Zack bathed in the light of true friendship. It was a shame he couldn't bask in it longer.

Zack waited in the taxi cab as Jason went to see if anyone was present in the Mitchell house. He folded his hands, trying desperately to contain his excitement.

After all those months in Geneva, the first round of peace talks were complete. Now, he was free for an entire month, to get reacquainted with the home and with the friends he had missed so dearly while he was abroad.

It was a shame Trini had decided not to return. She had found a fulfillment in her work that Zack and Jason just couldn't seem to match. Yes, he enjoyed Geneva, and he appreciated the privilege of being there... but it didn't feel right.

He couldn't help but think of his return as being prompted by Destiny's call.

After a few moments more, Jason returned to the cab, beckoning Zack to follow him. Zack nodded, asking the driver to wait as he exited the car. He glanced at his close friend, who wore an expression of urgency.

"Zack, there's been a catastrophe," he whispered, leading the former Black Power Ranger into Billy's house.

Zack gasped. "What do you mean?"

"The Command Center has been destroyed. There's nothing left."

Zack was speechless. He had always believed that Zordon was virtually invincible. How did the bungling Zedd and Rita finally manage to destroy the Command Center? It was impossible!

"Still, we're not to be counted out yet," Jason continued, "We're going to check out the site, and see if there's anything we can find to help."

"We?" Zack repeated, as he stepped into the open door of Billy's garage. His dark gaze swept the room, fixing on two strangers longer than the others. One was a tall blonde with pale skin and warm blue eyes. The other was an African girl, as conveyed by her traditional apparel, with short brown hair and deep brown eyes.

"Zack," Jason said, raising his arm, "These are the Power Rangers."

Zack realized with dismay that neither Kimberly nor Aisha were there.

His body was pumping so much adrenaline, he doubted he could sit down.

Here he was in the Youth Center, after so much time. He was back, sparring with a friend and teammate, just relaxing after a long battle.

It was so much like the old days... except the teammate was Adam Park, and he battled as the White Terran Ranger.

It was as different as it was the same. Yet... it was wonderful to be back in the armor.

No sooner did Zack's mind begin to wander did Adam take advantage of the distraction, sliding his legs mercilessly along the mat, and dropping Zack on his back.

"Wow," Zack muttered, rising to his elbows, "you're pretty good, Adam!"

"I'm not really that good," said Adam modestly, offering Zack a hand, "I've gotten better though, since Tommy and I started practicing here every evening at this time."

"Since I've been at the Peace Conference, I haven't put in much practice time," Zack admitted rather sheepishly, "I guess I'm a little rusty."

"Don't worry," laughed Adam, bowing, "I'll have you back in shape in no time!"

Yes, he'd be back in shape. He, Adam, Jason, Kimberly, Tommy and Katherine were the Terran Rangers now, and they'd remain so until the battle's won. So long ago, he had wished that the entire band would be united. This was as close as it had ever been. Yet Trini was still in Geneva, Aisha was in Africa, and Alexis was in Philadelphia. Without them, the team would never feel quite whole.

Zack then realized how much he missed Aisha, and her gleaming dark eyes and playful smile.

A forlorn sigh escaped his lips, as his eyes absently scanned down the familiar menu of the Juice Bar. He leaned heavily against the wooden back of his chair, a scowl turning his lips downwards.

"Is something bothering you?" Billy asked, glancing at his friend worriedly. Zack huffed, slightly annoyed that his morbid thoughts were interrupted.

"Angela and I were supposed to go to the Blackstreet concert next month," he revealed, "but today, she told me she couldn't make it. She's ready to 'see other people', or something like that."

"That's tough," said Adam, "but you'll get over her."

"Will I?" he asked glumly.

He didn't really know the answer. He couldn't understand it, but it was exceedingly difficult for him to just put Angela out of his mind. Almost as soon as he returned to Angel Grove, he had attempted to revive his relationship with her. He did lose contact while in Geneva, just as he had predicted, but he was so certain that the months would have matured her. Over the time that they were 'together', she had softened. She had learned not to be so cold and spoiled, and was once in a while affectionate. She even kissed Zack, when they went on that double date with Kim and Tommy!

But if there was one word that described Angela perfectly, it was inconsistent. One minute, she's all smiles and warm looks. The next, she's the Ice Queen of Angel Grove High.

Zack had had enough of her mind-games. But every time he was ready to give up on her, he felt her pull on him more and more. And one sweet smile managed to erase from his memory the dozen or so cold glares he had received just before.

"Hey gang," said a cheery female voice, "I'm here! And look what I found!"

Zack glanced up dully... and the sight completely erased Angela from his thoughts.

Standing beside Kimberly was a vision. Just a hair shorter than the Yellow Terran Ranger, with the same radiant dark eyes and dazzling smile that he remembered so vividly.

"Aisha!" said Adam excitedly, rising to his feet to warmly embrace one of his best friends.

The joy she felt at being reunited with her friends was evident in the sparkle of her eyes.

Suddenly... all Zack could perceive was the sparkle in her eyes.

Despite all the horrible worries plaguing the Silver X-Ranger, he couldn't help but enjoy himself.

It was the New Year's party, being held at the splendidly decorated Youth Center. The time was quickly approaching midnight, and dozens of excited teens were dancing their hearts out to Blackstreet's mega-hit dance anthem "No Diggity." And he was in the center of it all, gliding to the fast paced rhythm with the only woman he had never known who managed to keep up with him on the dance floor. Aisha Campbell.

He spun around, and then locked eyes with her for a moment. Once again, he was treated to the magnificent sparkle of light that had a permanent home in her dark orbs. She then grinned maliciously, and spun around herself, matching Zack's grace and speed perfectly.

Zack was all but mesmerized by her grace. She spun around so quickly, her dark green cocktail dress swirled like a flower opening its petals, revealing a daring amount of her smooth, athletic legs. The two ringlets of dark hair that hung by her ears also panned out, while the French twist that held the rest of her hair remained perfectly intact.

She then stopped abruptly, her full lips stretching into another euphoric smile as she reached out and entwined her fingers with Zack's. Breathing heavily from the effort, yet still beaming with energy, she continued to match Zack's pace.

Then, the dance song faded out, and the dance floor erupted with applause. Zack and Aisha were both startled out of their own little world, and realized that they had become a spectacle on the floor. A wide circle had formed around them, and other dancers simply stared in amazement.

Zack grinned, waving excitedly at all the attention they were getting. He then glanced at his partner, and smiled warmly at the charming blush that highlighted her dark cheeks.

He then realized that there was no way in the world Angela could ever dance like that. He blinked in surprise when it occurred to him that was the first time he even thought about Angela in several days.

He shrugged it off at the time, attributing to the recent emergency revolving around Tanya. A strange monster called the Sandman had been hunting her down, and all the Terran Rangers were on alert, trying to be ready for anything. He could strike at any moment.

But Zack couldn't deny that the threat of the Sandman didn't keep him from being swept away by the energy of the party.

"Hey there, Angel Grove!" called a voice on the microphone, "How's the party?"

Everyone cheered their approval.

Zack glanced up, and realized that the D.J. had quit the stage. In his place, a band was getting ready to perform. His grip remained on Aisha's hand, as he turned his attention to the lead singer's words.

"Okay, it's time for some slow songs, since it's edging on midnight! So everyone, grab your sweetie! Now, we're gonna sing 'Never Forget You' by Mariah Carey."

He didn't actually ask her to dance. He didn't even glance at her, and ask indirectly. Instead, he gently pulled his dance partner closer, and the two mesmerizing dancers easily sailed from an upbeat contest of dance skills to a sweeping, dreamy slow dance.

They moved as one, as if connected by the mutual reaction they had to the music. It was as if they had been dancing together all their lives.

He didn't think it was possible for two people to dance so well together without some form of training or choreography. But there he was, sliding across the floor with Aisha as if it were second nature to him.

All rational thought ceased as he listened to the words of the music, letting them take his consciousness away from the world of reality, into the world of fantasy that the enchanting voice of the singer created.

"I won't see your smile
And I won't hear you laugh anymore
Every night
I won't see you walk through that door,
'Cause time wasn't on your side
It isn't right
I can't say I love you
It's too late to tell you,
But I really need you to know, oh baby,

"No, I'll never forget you,
I'll never let you out of my heart,
You will always be here with me,
I'll hold onto the memories, Baby.

"Baby, can you hear me
Wherever you may be tonight?
Are you near me?
I need you to be by my side.
'Cause I never said goodbye
It isn't right.
I should have said I love you
Why didn't I just tell you?
God knows I need you to know.

"No, I'll never forget you
I'll never let you out of my heart.
You will always be here with me.
I'll hold onto the memories baby.

"Somewhere I know you'll be with me.
Someday, in another time.
But right now you're gone, just vanished away
But I'll never leave you behind...

"No, I'll never forget you,
I'll never let you out of my heart.
You will always be here with me.
I'll hold onto the memories, baby..."

I'll hold onto the memories, baby...
I'll hold onto the memories, baby...
I'll hold onto the memories, baby...

The lyrics repeated themselves, pulsing through Zack's mind as the green light faded, and the heaviness of his eyelids dissipated. He groaned quietly, shielding his eyes from the bright sunlight that afflicted them. He sat up, shaking his head.

"Wow, Zack," said Cloud, as he kneeled beside the young man and held his upper arm to steady him, "We were really worried about you!"

"How long was I gone?" Zack asked, his eyes still closed from the light.

"You sank into the Mako lake, and then you emerged only seconds later," Tifa explained, "You've been lying here unconscious for the past half an hour!"

Zack's eyes finally opened, and they opened wide. "Half an hour?!"

He cringed when he noticed the shocked expressions on the faces of all his friends. "What?"

Billy stepped forward, clutching his Partisan. He lifted the spear, and held the reflectant silver edge in front of Zack, to function as a mirror. "See for yourself," Billy advised.

Zack gasped when he realized his eyes were no longer his natural shade of dark brown. Rather, they were bright green. The exact shade of green that characterized the eyes of both the late Aeris and the evil Sephiroth. The same shade of green as the Lifestream itself.

Mako eyes...

"D... does this mean it worked?" he breathed.

"Well, you're alive," Barrett said, "and you've got Mako in your body now. Consider yourself a battery, Kid."

"Excellent analogy," Vincent said, his body once again wrapped in his flowing scarlet cape, "Zack, you are a battery of Mako energy. Now, you will be able to transport the energy to your home, and save your friend from her fate. You have been blessed with the power to save the one you love. Revel in it, young man... for so many have lost what was dear to them while helpless to prevent it."

For once, Zack didn't shudder or complain at Aisha being referred to as the one he loved. Instead, the notion brought a small, thoughtful grin to his face.

That grin didn't go unnoticed. Not by anyone.

Tifa and Cloud shared a knowing smile, and once again her hand slipped in his.

*And now, it's time for you to leave,* said a voice in Zack's head. He blinked in surprise, and closed his Mako eyes, cutting himself off from the distractions of the outside world.

Aeris? Is that you?

*Who else would it be?* was the flip response, *Hurry up and say your farewells, Zack. Then you must blink back to Earth.*

Blink? What is that?

*It is instantaneous teleportation, much more practical than that jetting thing you do. The moment you vanish from Midgar, you will appear in the spot from which you left Earth. It will retrace your transport here, but in the blink of an eye. Consider it my final gift to you.*

Zack felt the smile on his face. Thanks for everything, Aeris.

*Don't mention it.*

Zack opened his eyes, a neutral, dazed expression on his face.

"Are you okay?" Billy inquired, noting Zack's expression.

Zack nodded, shaking his head to orient himself again. "Yeah, but we'd better get going. Every second counts."

Zack then turned his attention to the line of heroes, all wearing pleasant smiles. Even Cid, Barrett, and Vincent were smiling, and the former two had glassy eyes.

"Good luck, guys," said Cloud, stepping forward and shaking both of their hands in turn, "It was a pleasure working with you."

"Thanks for all your help," Tifa added.

"And thanks for breaking in my materia!" Yuffie chimed, a wide grin on her face.

"Keep your heads up," Barrett said.

"Yeah," Cid agreed, "and stop taking life so damn seriously!"

Zack couldn't help but smile at that. No one had ever given him that advice before! It was always the other way around.

"Learn from this experience," Vincent advised, clasping both their hands.

"Farewell," Red said, sitting on his hind legs and raising his forepaw to rest upon their hands as a modified hand shake, "and Grandfather bids you good luck also."

"Keep in touch," Cait Sith said. The black feline then frowned. "Wait... that might be tough, considering we're all over the place. Um... then, don't forget us!"

"There's no way we could possibly forget this experience," Billy said, shaking first the hand of the large white Mog, and then the paw of the small cat sitting on top of it.

Zack then stepped back, and wrapped his holster and gun around his waist once again. Then, he glanced at Billy. "Ready?"

"For what?" the genius asked.

"To blink home."

"What?"

Zack grinned. "Just give me your hand."

Billy conceded, and the two were enveloped in a radiant emerald light. It started at their joined hands, and pulsed outward, bathing them both completely. When the light faded, they had vanished.

"So," said Cid, stretching his arms, "who wants a pizza?"

Suddenly, after over half an hour of howling loudly, the incessant beeping of the alarm steadied into a prolonged tone. The flashing lights stopped, and the screens went still.

The Power Rangers, Rocky, and Tanya stopped their desperate work, and held their collective breath, silently hoping for a miracle.

It didn't come.

Rocky shuddered, closing his eyes tightly to prevent the tears from flowing. Alexis quietly moved beside him, and clutched his hand soothingly.

Unexpectedly, Rocky broke down that instant, wrapping his arms around Alexis and squeezing her tightly, as if his life depended on it. Tears welled in his eyes, dripping down his face silently. Alexis hugged him back fiercely, trying her best to control her own emotions.

Adam sank to the floor, his lengthening curls casting a shadow over his dark eyes. Tanya fell to her knees beside him, and embraced him with all the strength in her body. Both teens did their best not to fall apart emotionally.

Katherine turned away from the others, allowing herself to cry into her hands freely. Jason was at her side in an instant, his gaze fixed on the still body.

Kimberly took a seat beside Aisha... her best friend... and bit her lip savagely, trying to hold back the cries of rage that threatened. Tommy stood behind her, wrapping his arms around her shoulders and holding her head against his body.

Jason then returned to the side of the med-unit, tears sliding down his own cheeks. His hand tenderly grasped the sheet that covered Aisha up to her chest.

Slowly, he pulled it over her lifeless face.

The silent mourning scene was interrupted by a blinding green light, pulsing from near the teleportation relay. All the teens turned in mute surprise, as the light took the form of two figures.

"That was prodigious!" Billy exclaimed, running his fingers through his disheveled hair, "Completely instantaneous transportation! Even our teleportation from nearby locals takes some time... even if it be nanoseconds. But, as soon as we dematerialized on Midgar, we rematerialized in the CAC!"

Zack was smiling at Billy's excitement. For him, nanoseconds and instantaneous didn't differ at all. But, he wasn't much of a physicist. For Billy, it was a world of difference... a whole new means of transport requiring further study.

Zack and Billy turned around, their eyes panning the chamber for signs of their friends. They were both giving a rude awakening when they finally registered the somber congregation around the med-unit.

Kat, Kimberly, Jason, Alexis, Rocky, Adam, Tanya, and Tommy stared in stupefaction at the sudden appearance of their friends.

If they had appeared just moments earlier... they might have been happy to see them. But now, the pain only worsened.

Tommy disengaged his arms from his girlfriend, and approached the two young men slowly. His curious gaze leapt from their strange weapons to Zack's emerald eyes. "What... happened to you guys?" he whispered.

"We found the cure," Billy said, his glance turning to Tommy, and then back to the others. Their failure to greet them enthusiastically didn't bode well.

"Yeah," Zack said, a small grin returning, "I've been given the power to cure her."

Tommy's gaze dropped to the floor, his shoulders slumping slightly.

Zack's eyes widened when he noticed all the others mimicking his movements.

"What's wrong...?" Zack whispered.

This time, Jason stepped forward. "I... I'm sorry, Man," he choked, his lip trembling, "If you had been a few minutes earlier..."

He left the rest unsaid.

Zack immediately dashed to the med-unit, while the assembled teens moved out of the way. His panic rising, his breath caught in his throat and tears immediately sprang to his green eyes when he saw the white sheet completely covering a form on the bed.

He opened his mouth, but nothing came out. Not a word... not even an unintelligible cry.

Nothing.

"When did she crash?" Billy demanded, leaning his Partisan against a console and joining Tanya and Adam near the monitors. Tanya rose to her feet, leaving the Green Ranger on the floor, still trapped in a world of his guilty emotions. While Tanya pulled up the information, Billy's blue gaze remained on Adam... more specifically, the verdant armor he wore.

"Adam..." he said in disbelief, "why?"

The Green Ranger looked up, tears pouring from his eyes. "Because I had to. And if I had done it sooner, then Aisha..."

He couldn't bring himself to finish his sentence, and his unseeing gaze fell again to the green helmet sitting by his knees.

"Time of death... 3:22 a.m." Tanya said, a deep breath passing through her lips as she wiped tears with the back of her hand. "Less than two minutes ago."

Billy bit his lip, yanking the sheet completely from Aisha. He grabbed her hand gently.

"She's not entirely cold yet," he said, looking up, "Zack, try it!"

Zack swallowed hard. When Billy had pulled away the white sheet, he had turned around. He didn't want to see her... the woman he let down. He couldn't bring himself to look at those sparkling eyes, forever hidden behind her eyelids to never see the world again.

"Zack!" Billy repeated, leaning forward and snapping through his friend's tremulous thoughts, "Hurry up! The longer you wait, the less chance there is she'll survive."

"She's already dead!" Zack cried, a sob escaping him. He clenched his fists tightly, desperate to regain composure.

"Then you certainly can't hurt her by trying," Billy offered.

Zack pursed his trembling lips tightly, his eyes flashing slightly with green energy. He held his breath, and hesitatingly lifted his hands. Slowly, he reached for Aisha's hands.

He cringed when he realized how flaccid they were, but his grip only tightened in reaction. He felt the eyes of all his friends on him, lending them whatever support they could. He glanced at Billy, who nodded to edge him on.

Finally, Zack fixed his verdant gaze on Aisha's closed eyes. Eyes that would forever remain closed... unless he did something about it.

His determination mounting, Zack exhaled strongly, and closed his eyes.

"So, what happens now?" Kimberly whispered, unconsciously leaning closer to her boyfriend. In response, Tommy's strong arm wrapped around her shoulders comfortingly.

"We wait," Billy answered, stepping back.

Katherine, Jason, Tommy, Kimberly, Adam, Tanya, Rocky, and Alexis all gasped in shock as a mist of whitish-green energy began to seep out of Zack's body. The energies entwined into twisting strands of power, and channeled down Zack's body, along his arm, and from there around Aisha's arm.

Slowly, the Mako energy encased Aisha in a brilliant web of power, floating around her body several inches above her skin in a hypnotizing dance of power.

Zack opened his mouth suddenly, a choked breath escaping him. Jason, who was standing closest, moved forward in case Zack should lose his balance. His eyes then widened when he saw a white sphere of energy build at Zack's heart, and pulse with energy.

"What's that?" he whispered, glancing at Billy.

Billy was too occupied by the events to even hear the Black Terran Ranger's question.

The sphere then jutted from Zack's chest, causing him to gasp and shudder. His knees shook, and he slowly lowered to the ground.

Jason immediately grabbed the young man's waist, holding him up.

He was amazed that, despite Zack's obvious loss of strength, his grip on Aisha's hands were as strong as before.

The sphere hovered over Aisha for a few moments, flashing with intense white energy. The green web of energy bathing her body began to seep into the sphere, causing the sphere to glow all the brighter.

Finally, after all the mist was absorbed, the sphere flashed once, and leapt into Aisha's chest.

Aisha's body began shaking, and he limbs began to jerk uncontrollably. Rocky and Adam were at her side in an instant, holding down her arms and legs to prevent her from falling off the med-unit.

Amazingly, Zack's grip remained on her hands.

Then, Aisha grew still. Zack's strength faded completely, and he leaned entirely on Jason, his hands falling to his sides. Jason blinked, looking around at his friends.

"I'll get him a chair," Katherine volunteered, rushing to grab a chair from against the wall. She set it beside the med-unit, and Jason sat Zack down.

Adam gazed from Zack to Aisha, a bewildered expression on his weary face. "Did it work?" he asked.

Rocky remained still, his dark eyes fixed entirely on Aisha. "I... I can't tell."

Tanya stepped away from the cohesive group, and glanced at the monitors. The flat line that measured Aisha's vital signs remained unchanged. Slowly, her hand rose to her face.

"She's... not coming back," Tanya whispered, wrapping her arms around her body.

Just then, Zack groaned weakly, pulling his eyes open despite their resistance. He blinked, as if the light of the CAC irritated him.

His dark brown eyes bounced around the scene quickly, from his friends, to the computer screens across from him, to Aisha.

Aisha...

His eyes narrowing, Zack grabbed the edge of the med-unit, and pulled himself to his feet. His legs trembling under his own weight, he watched her eyes cautiously, holding his breath.

Slowly, his hand reached out to hers, enclosing it gently.

"It had to work," Alexis whispered, squeezing her burning eyes closed, "It just had to..."

Silence reigned. No one moved. No one spoke. No one breathed.

Suddenly, a slow, weak beeping noise sliced through the morbid void of sound. Tanya whirled around, her eyes tearing all over again and a wide smile perking her lips. Excitedly, she turned to the others, unable to utter a sound.

Her expression of hope was enough. All the teens gathered around, their eyes fixed on Aisha's face.

And then... her eyes opened.

She blinked weakly, a confused frown on her face. Her frown melted when she saw Zack standing over her, a wide smile curling his lips.

"Hey, Taylor," she whispered, surprised at the weakness of her voice.

"Hey yourself," he said, tightening his grip on her hand. He slowly helped her sit up on the med-unit. One glance around the room alarmed her. All her friends were in a semi-circle around the cot, with tears shining in their eyes, and excited and relieved smiles on their face.

"What's going on?" she demanded.

"Welcome back!" Kimberly shrieked, unable to harness her feelings. She rushed forward, tying her friend in a tight hug. Aisha hugged her back, though confusion still marred her expression.

"Group hug!" Rocky announced excitedly, wrapping his strong arms around both girls. Then, with laughs of euphoria, all twelve teenagers coiled together, almost like a rope with many strands. And Aisha found herself in the center of this pool of filial affection.

"What the heck is going on here?!" she demanded, as the group disentangled themselves. Aisha huffed with slightly frustration, hopping off the med-unit.

She looked up, and saw Adam standing just inches before her, with bloodshot eyes and an all-too-familiar green and gold uniform. She was stunned.

"Have a seat," he beckoned, "it's a long story."

"Whatcha thinking?" Zack whispered, his soft voice gaining the attention of the pensive young woman. Aisha looked up to meet his gaze, and tried her best to smile.

But she couldn't.

"I... I don't know," she confessed with a sigh, turning her weary eyes from her walking companion to the silent streets of her neighborhood. "Everything, I guess."

She took a deep breath, shoving her hands in her jeans pockets. "I don't believe I almost... died. I had no idea what was happening. I fainted from dizziness in the Youth Center! And that might have been the last time I was conscious!"

She sniffled quietly. "I know being a Power Ranger puts my life in jeopardy, but I guess the notion of actually dying wasn't real to me before. It's so hard to conceive. I wouldn't have gotten a chance to say goodbye to anyone. It was so... sudden."

Zack grimaced. He didn't want to mention it to her, but her slow decay was anything but sudden. She wasted away at a painfully slow pace, only intensifying the feelings of anxiety and helplessness that her friends endured.

Still, there was no use in letting her know how much pain her predicament had caused.

"And... I don't believe Adam took the Power back," Aisha continued.

"Yeah, but I understand where he's coming from now," Zack admitted, taking a deep breath of the night air, "Having that Zeo shard really becomes part of who we are. Even without mine, I was recognized as having the Power. And I felt so... incomplete without the crystal, like it left a hole where it used to be. Weird, huh?"

Aisha gazed at her friend with a neutral expression. "I don't feel that way at all. It feels more like... a thorn removed."

Zack glanced at her worriedly. "If the Zeo shard had caused you pain, you shouldn't have kept it, Aisha."

She shrugged in reply. "It wasn't that bad. It was just... an uncomfortable feeling. Certainly not soothing and refreshing like the rest of you. I guess I'm really not destined to be a Terran Ranger."

Zack reached over, and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "Don't give it another thought."

Aisha smiled in gratitude, leaning closer to him. "Thanks for everything you did, Zack. I know I wouldn't have made it without your help."

His eyes remained fixed on her. "Hey, for you, Aisha... anything."

Aisha felt the warmth in Zack's gaze, and relished the feeling of his arm around her, keeping her safe and warm. Yet, she couldn't really figure out what it meant. She took a few moments to reflect upon it as the Campbell household came into view.

"Boy, this is going to be bad," Aisha groaned, pulling her hand out of her pocket to glance at her watch, "It's four in the morning! My parents probably called the police already."

"Well, at least your dad knows you're a Power Ranger," Zack pointed out, "My folks are gonna kill me!"

Aisha nodded, as the pair came to a stop at the threshold. "Well, I suppose. Still, I won't tell him about my brush with death. He'd never let me out of the house again."

Zack glanced at the window beside the front door, noting the lights were on. "Do you want me to come in with you?" he offered.

"Nah, don't worry about it. Besides, you've got your own parents to deal with." She smiled amusedly. "See you tomorrow... if I'm not grounded 'til Doomsday, that is."

Aisha turned towards the door, yet surprisingly, arm remained on her shoulder. Aisha turned her head back to Zack, gazing at him questioningly.

She noticed Zack biting his lip nervously.

"Say, Aisha," he said quietly, his hands flying to his pockets and his eyes darting away from hers to just about anything else, "uh... remember that dance club I mentioned earlier?"

Aisha couldn't help but frown slightly. "You mean the one you want to ask Angela to?"

Zack nodded faintly, finally lifting his gaze to meet hers. "Yeah, that one."

"What about it?"

"Do you think that... maybe... you'd be... um..." Zack's eyes widened in panic. He was so nervous, he could barely speak. He was never so inarticulate with Angela.

Strangely enough, the queasy feeling in his stomach felt... good.

"Zack," Aisha interrupted, her eyebrow arching, "are you trying to ask me out?"

Zack's lips stretched into a self-conscious grin. "Yeah... and doing a terrible job, I might add."

Aisha responded with a wide, dazzling smile. "Actually, you're doing pretty well." She winked at him. "I'd love to."

Her smile fell into a grimace as she glanced at her front door again. "Provided my parents ever let me see the light of day again!"

For the first time that harrowing day, a smile crossed the stony face of the Omniversal Majestrix.

"All is well," she said, glancing up from the large sphere showing Angel Grove. One Angel Grove, on one planet Earth... in one of an infinite array of universes.

"For now," said another woman, who was seated at a desk just before the globe. Her gray eyes remained focused on the stone tablet lying on her desk, as she continued to etch into the surface with a magical stylus the events she had witnessed.

"Yes, Destine," Roma conceded, stepping away from the globe. For a moment, her wandering gaze swept the large chamber, regarding the numerous white marble shelves, all reaching to infinity, each with many stone slabs placed neatly in order. The Great Library, where all of history was forever stored, was truly an amazing sight... even for Roma herself. "For now, the Multiverse is safe."

Destine glanced up as she heard the footsteps of the Majestrix grow further from her. "Roma?" she called.

"Yes?" was the reply, as Roma turned around.

Destine fumbled slightly under the intense gaze of one of the most powerful beings in the Multiverse. "I... I realize it isn't my place to dictate, but... as the keeper of the Tablets of Destiny, you know I must record everything that has happened. That includes your... interview with Adam Park."

Roma twitched her eyebrows, creating the effect of a conservative shrug of indifference. "I am aware of that. Although I did promise not to interfere, it became a necessity. The Terran Rangers must remain intact, and if it is in my power to keep it so, then I shall."

"Which is why you interfered before, helping send Kimberly Hart and Zachary Taylor back to their world."

"Exactly," Roma responded, turning around, "The Terran Rangers are too instrumental to the coming battle for me to allow their fates to be governed solely by chance." Her face became solemn, although her expression was hidden from her companion. "The time is drawing near... and the Dark One is preparing to make his move."