Disclaimer: Prz and All Things Having to Do with Them Are Property of Saban Entertainment. I Acknowledge That I Am Using Them Without Permission, but this Is Sorely for Entertainment. However, the Characters and Places, Kamara (Silver Star) Zara, Bagera, Karanda, Whitemist, Silvermist and Anything Else Not Belonging to Saban Is Mine. Also, Any Resemblance to Other Fan Fics, Be it in Title, Plot, Characters, Etc Is Strictly Coincidental.

Warning: Some Language and Sexual Situations. Not Suitable for Younger Readers.

Silver and Gold
by: Alanna Hanson

Prologue


SILVERMIST;

From the journal of Karanda, ruler of Silvermist;

Dear journal;

I am very concerned. The recent birth of our daughter, Princess Kamara, has brought great joy to our world. The palace as been flooded with well wishers hoping to get a look at their future queen. There have been celebrations in her honor nearly every night. However, behind the joy, there lies and air of tension. There is concern that the Bagerian Empire, led by Queen Bageria, may know of this special event.

You see, it is written in their prophecy that the birth of the Silvermist princess bearing the mark, will be the key to their unleashing a great evil that will make them unstoppable. Our daughter bears that mark! The mark is that of a silver star imprinted in the center of her forehead.

This star will be the source of the powers she will have, and the origin of her warrior name, Silver Star. We will try for as long as we can to keep Kamara a secret from this evil empire. As soon as she is old enough, she will be trained as a fierce warrior and prepared for the day when Bageria discovers her existence.

From the journal of Karanda, ruler of Silvermist;

Dear journal;

It has been nearly five centuries since I last wrote to you. Much has happened since my last entry, and it has caused me great distress. First, we have been at war with the Bagerian empire for the five centuries that I have not written in you. Kamara, young as she is, has become an astounding warrior. However, she is not yet good enough to go up against Bageria's forces, and I fear we will not be able to hold them off much longer. It pains me deeply to say this, but for the sake of our world and our daughter's life, my beloved husband and I have agreed that she must be sent away so that she may be given a chance to survive until she is of age and they can no longer use her in their plans.

We will be opening a portal tonight, when all is quiet and will give her the means to reopen it should the need to flee the world she ends up on arises. Hopefully, it will be a while before Bageria discovers she is gone and sends someone to attempt to retrieve her. I pray she finds friends and help on the worlds she visits and I hope that one day, she makes it to Earth, and seeks the help on my dear friend, Zordon.

I shall send word to him to watch for her. I must go now, and prepare. I curse Bageria and her empire for robbing me of the joy of watching my only daughter grow and blossom into something wonderful. And I curse her for steeling the innocence of a child, who is still no more than a baby.

PART 1

Earth; 1900 years later;

"Hi-ya!" a fierce blow immediately followed the exclamation, followed by several more rapid kicks and punches. From across the room, four teens watched their friend swiftly inflicting blows in the punching bag with curious concern.

"How long has he been at that now?" Rocky De Santos asked, looking over the table at his friends.

"A good hour at least," Adam Park replied, taking a sip of his fruit juice.

"Maybe one of us should convince him to take a break." Katherine Hilliard said, "he might work himself to exhaustion if he keeps that up."

"Looks like it's already covered." Tanya Sloan said, nodding in the direction of the Youth Center door. The others looked over and saw Tommy Oliver standing in the doorway. He threw a glance in their direction, then turned his attention to the teen at the punching bag, frowning as he watched him.

After a moment, the boy turned from the punching bag and launched into a series of judo moves. Tommy looked back at the foursome and raised his eyebrows questioningly. The looks he got back told him all he needed to know and he quickly made his way over to his friend.

"Hey bro. Don't you think it's time you took a break?"

Receiving silence in response, Tommy decided to try another tactic.

"It's those dreams again, isn't it?"

"Yeah," came the quietly grunted reply.

"Come on Jase, take a break and let's talk about it. Wearing yourself out isn't gonna help any."

Jason Scott paused in mid strike and looked at Tommy.

"That's just it Tommy! I can't talk about it. I... I don't know how."

"What do you mean?"

Jason sighed, staring at the punching bag absently as he tried to figure out what to tell his best friend.

"Well, every time I try to talk about them, or even think about them, my mind goes totally blank. All I can remember is silver light."

"Have you talked to Zordon about it?" Tommy asked in a low voice.

Jason shook his head.

"Well, maybe you should. Come on, I'll get the others and we'll get to the bottom of this once and for all."

Jason looked at Tommy, about to protest, but the look in the other boy's eyes told him he wasn't going to take no for an answer. Sighing to himself, Jason gave in and followed Tommy to a secluded spot where the others, responding to a signal from Tommy, had already gathered. After a quick check to make sure they weren't being observed, the six teen vanished from the Youth Center in six columns of colored light.

***
"Okay Jase, just close your eyes and relax." Billy Cranston said ten minutes later. The teens were all gathered in the Power Chamber, watching in silence as Billy began the process of hypnotizing Jason.

"I want you to tune out all distractions and hear nothing but the sound of my voice. Imagine getting lighter and lighter. All your tension is melting away. Now imagine walking down a flight of stairs. The further down you go, tell yourself, 'I am going deeper and deeper into a trance.'"

Billy paused, looking at Jason intently. His friend truly looked lost in a deep sleep.

"Jason, can you hear me?"

"Yes," came the slightly slurred reply. "Good. Now, imagine yourself watching a video of all the dreams you have ever had. Can you see them?"

A hint of a smile flickered across Jason's blank face. "Yes."

"Good. Now imagine hitting a fast forward button. Skim through all those dreams until you come to the one with the silver light." Several minutes passed and then Jason quietly said, "Found it."

"Okay. Now hit the stop button and press play. Tell us what you see."

"I'm walking in the park alone. I think I'm headed for the Youth Center. I haven't gone far when there's this sudden flash of silver light. When it clears and I can see again, the area of the park I'm in has changed. Everything is silver or has a touch of it." Jason paused, a frown crossing his features. "I can hear a voice. But it's whispering. I can't understand what it's saying."

"Is it coming from your head Jason?"

"No."

"Then where is it coming from?"

Jason hesitated, then lifted his hand and pointed straight ahead.

"Over there."

"Okay. Follow it Jase. Is it getting any louder?"

Jason's frown deepened and took on the expression of one struggling to understand. "Yeah." He said hesitantly. "It'…sounds like It sounds like it's asking for help. It... It sounds like a girl... I can't see anything now. Some kind of thick fog has just appeared out of nowhere. The voice... It's definitely a girl. She seems to be calling to me... leading me to her."

Jason let out a sudden gasp, startling the others.

"What is it Jason?" Billy asked calmly.

"Someone else is here. I can see their shadow in the fog."

"Who is it?"

"I don't know." Frustration entered his voice as he added: "There's to much damn fog!"

"Okay, imagine you're standing beside a large fan. Reach over and turn it on. Now what's happening?"

"The fog is disappearing. I can see more of who's there... It's a girl. She's standing about fifty feet away, watching me. She's dressed in some kind of silver armor, like in those medieval movies. She's wearing some kind of mask, so I can't see her face, but her eyes are the brightest shade of green I've ever seen! And her hair is incredibly long. It's blood red and streaked with silver. I can feel some kind of bond, or connection, to her. She is tired of running... she wants to go home and see her family again."

He paused, appearing to listen to voice only he could hear. "She's asking for help. She's been trying to find Earth for such a long time. She's asking me to help her get here. She's looking behind her now. There's some kind of black cloud gathering about ten, maybe twenty feet behind her. She's looking back at me, there's the most intense fear in her eyes. She's reaching out, begging me not to let the darkness take her."

Jason's hand once again rose, as though reaching out for something.

"Take my hand!" he cried out, much to the surprise of his friends.

Tommy made a move toward his now distressed friend, but Billy stopped him, watching curiously as Jason seemed to fully enter the dream he was describing, frustrated that they could only hear his side of the conversation that seemed to be taking place.

"Take my hand!" he repeated. "No! Move away from it! Run!" His voice was now a fearful shout. He began to struggle as Billy and Tommy held him down to keep him from falling off the table. "No! let her go! Star! Star! Take my hand!"

Without warning, he erupted in a pain filled scream.

"Jason!" Billy shouted in alarm. "Jason, when I count to three and snap my fingers, the dream will dissolve, and you'll awaken. 1... 2... 3!"

He snapped his fingers and Jason immediately ceased his struggles and screams. His eyes snapped open and he shot up, breathing heavily and looking around wildly. "Easy bro." Tommy said soothingly, gently but firmly pushing his friend back down on the table. Jason closed his eyes, struggling to bring his breathing under control.

"Jason, what happened when you tried to take that girl's hand? Do you remember?"

Billy asked quietly. Jason remained silent for several moments, and Billy was starting to think he had fallen asleep when the quiet reply came. "She was trying to get away form the black cloud, trying to get to me. I tried to run to her, but she kept getting farther and farther away the closer I got. And the cloud... I moved faster the both of us. It engulfed her.... I could feel her fear and pain. It was as if I was in her place. It hurt so much."

Before he fell into a deep sleep, one name escaped his lips in a soft, whispering sigh; "Silver Star."

***
"Silver Star?" Tommy looked up a Zordon questioningly.

"I suspect this is the name of the mysterious girl in Jason's dream. I believe it is serving as a warning that something is about to happen that will drastically change Jason's life and very possibly your lives as well. I suggest you keep your eyes and ears open. If my suspicions are correct, Jason is guiding whoever or whatever is causing his dreams, here. We must be prepared in case this force is hostile."

Billy watched the old mage carefully. He had seen the flash of recognition fly through his mentor's wise eyes at the mention of Silver Star's name. Evidently, Tommy had to, for he now looking at Zordon suspiciously.

"Zordon, is there something you're not telling us?"

When Zordon remained silent, Tommy knew his suspicions were correct.

"You do know something."

"What's going on Zordon?" Adam asked.

"Yeah, do you know who this girl is?" Rocky added.

Zordon looked at the teens, his gaze settling on Tommy, who held a challenging look in his eyes, as if daring their mentor to brush off their questions.

"Yes, Rangers," he finally admitted, "I do know of a girl by that name. But there is a chance that this is a different Silver Star."

"But it's a pretty small chance isn't it?" Billy asked quietly.

"Correct." Zordon paused, as thought collecting his thoughts. Finally, he continued, "The story I'm about to tell you goes back twenty-six hundred years, to a planet known as Silvermist. It begins at the birth of princess Kamara, daughter of Queen Karanda and king Beraan. Princess Kamara bore a special mark, that of a silver star imprinted in her forehead. This mark would give her special powers that would go beyond the normal powers of a Silvermistian. But it would also make her the target of a powerful empire, known as the Bagerian empire, led by queen Bagera, a very powerful, very evil sorceress."

"I have a picture of her on the viewing globe." Alpha 5, who had been quietly standing off to the side, spoke up. The teens turned to the viewing globe, an found themselves looking at a very stern faced, frighteningly mean looking woman dressed in sinister-looking black armor with long, midnight black hair.

"Wow. Wouldn't want to run into her in a dark alley." Rocky quipped with a shudder. "She looks vaguely familiar somehow," Kat said, looking hard at the woman.

"You feel a familiarity with Bagera because of your past experience in Lord Zedd's service."

"What does old radiator face have to do with this?" Rocky asked.

"Oh, my god." Kat whispered, realization crossing her face.

"I'm sorry, did I miss something here?" Tanya asked, confusion in her dark eyes.

"No more than the rest of us," Adam replied, looking from Kat to Zordon with equal confusion. It was obvious from Kat's stunned expression that she wasn't going to explain things, so Zordon spoke up for her.

"Rangers, the connection Katherine has just made is the fact that Bagera is Zedd's younger sister."

Shocked silence descended on the group as each absorbed this new information.

"Man," Tommy said, shaking his head, "First Rita's brother and Father and now Zedd's sister. What next?"

"Personally, I'd rather not know." Adam muttered. "So Zordon, what happened to Kamara?" Billy asked, bringing them back on topic.

"As I said before, she became a target of the Bargerian empire. According to a prophecy of theirs, the Silvermist princess bearing the mark of the silver star, would be the key to unlocking a power that would make them unstoppable. Karanda and Beraan kept their daughter secret from Bagera for as long as they could, and as soon as she was able, began training her in the ways of the warrior. But it wasn't long before Bagera found out about the princess and launched an all out war against Silvermist.

"This war lasted over five hundred years. Kamara was about the equivalent of seven when her parents realized they would not be able to protect her much longer. She was still much too young and to early in the stages of her training to be able to stand against Bagera's forces. So it was decided that, for her own survival, as well as the planet's, that she would be sent away in the hope that she would find help on other worlds and would survive until she was powerful enough to return and assume her rightful place on the throne.

"It was also Karanda's hope that Kamara would one day find her way to Earth and seek my help. Not long after Kamara left, I was alerted by her mother to keep watch for her and offer my assistance should she ever turn up here. Jason was using Kamara's warrior name when he called out to her. If this is, in fact Kamara, I have no idea how or why she is using Jason to find her way here. We will just have to wait and find out."

***
Jason was one again alone in the park. This time, when the silver light flashed and cleared, he didn't wait for the voice, but headed in the direction he knew it would be coming.

"Please... help me..."

This time, he heard the voice clearly instead of a confused whisper floating through his mind. He scanned the fog for her form and finally found her. Concentrating hard, he will the fog away, then moved determinedly toward her.

"Please, help me find my way," She whispered, reaching out. Behind her, Jason saw the black cloud forming, and froze in his tracks. Silver Star glanced behind her, then looked back, the intense fear flaring up in her amazingly green eyes. "Please.... don't let the darkness take me."

They were now within arms length of each other. For the first time, Jason felt hesitant about wanting to take her hand. He managed to tear his eyes from hers and looked at the cloud. He felt the pain and intense evil emanating from it, and it quickly washed away all doubt and hesitation. He reached out and firmly grasped her small hand in his own. Immediately, they were engulfed in a bright, silver light. Jason was filled with an energy unlike any he had ever felt. It wasn't painful, but actually relaxing and soothing. Jason felt all the tension that had built up inside him, flow away.

'Thank you.' Her voice whispered though his mind like a soft breeze, adding to his growing calmness. 'I am free, and now, so are you.'

The light began to fade, and he felt himself slowly returning to awareness. From, somewhere, he wasn't quite sure where, he heard familiar voices. As he struggled to hear, the realization of what just happened struck him. The girl... Silver Star... he had gotten to her. He had finally gotten to her. But... where did she go?

"I got her." he mumbled. Confusion suddenly settled over him and he staggered and fell to the ground. A haze enveloped him. He fought it and for an instant, things went dark. He lay there, exhausted, no longer fighting, but welcoming the darkness. Then his eyes flew open and he shot up, exclaiming loudly, "I got her!"

The sudden outburst received startled jumps and a few gasps from the others. Tommy was at Jason's side in an instant, gently but firmly pushing his confused friend back down.

"Easy Jase," he said soothingly, "just relax."

"I got her Tommy," Jason mumbled, "I grabbed her hand. She's here... gotta find her."

He tried to get back up, but Tommy easily restrained him. Feeling to drained to protest, Jason closed his eyes and whispered, "Gotta find her," before once again slipping into a deep sleep.

***
Tommy looked at Jason and then up at Zordon in concern. Zordon gazed back at Tommy with a look that said, "Wait and see."
*** The roar of water, followed by a cold wetness, brought her back to awareness. Bright green eyes slowly forced themselves open, then flew shut as they were assaulted by bright light. After a few moments, the eyes reopened, blinked a few times, and were hit with water. The girl cried out in surprise, and quickly sat up, wiping the water away. She groaned softly as a wave of dizziness overtook her and held her head in her hands. When it had passed, she raised her head and took in her surroundings.

She was kneeling in the sand of an apparently secluded beach. High, jagged cliffs surrounded her and, a little ways down, bluish water crashed against the rocks.

'Can it be?' she thought, pushing a strand of wet, dark red hair from her eyes. 'Could this be Earth? Was the one I made contact with really from Earth?'

A soft breeze blew up and she shivered, wrapping her arms around herself in an attempt to block it out. That was when she noticed something was missing. She looked down and discovered that she was completely nude! She wasn't surprised by it, however. It wasn't the first time she had awakened on a new world with her armor gone.

'Probably teleported itself back to its holding place when I was transported here. Wherever that is,' she thought. 'Hmmm.... I'm to weak to summon it. The transport must have drained me. But I'll worry about that later. Right now I'd better find a way out off this beach.'

She stood and looked up to the top of the cliffs.

'Wonder if I have enough power to teleport up there? It's not that far, I'll give it a try.'

She closed her eyes and pictured the top of the cliffs. She then searched around within her until she found power strong enough to carry out the deed. Her mind called upon it and, seconds later, she vanished from the beach and shimmered back into existence at the top of the cliffs. She opened her eyes and smiled as she took in the breath taking view.

She looked around sharply at the sound of voices and laughter and quickly concealed herself in a nearby bush. Peering out from her hiding place, Kamara spotted two young humans- or what she assumed were humans- walking and talking animatedly not far away. One was a tall, handsome boy with long brown hair dressed in red and the other was a slightly smaller girl with blond hair dressed in pink.

"Hey guys!" she jumped slightly as another boy, this one dressed in blue, ran up to the pair. She watched as the threesome exchanged greetings then continue walking.

'Better blend in with the locals,' she thought, remembering her nakedness. She waited until the coast was clear, then closed her eyes, found some more useable power, and used it to imitate the clothing she had seen on the girl.

When she was finished, she found herself wearing a silver and green T-shirt with matching shorts and white sneakers. A lock of her hip length red hair fell over her shoulder, reminding her of the silver that streaked though it.
'Better hide that,' she thought. Closing her eyes again, she touched her hair and, seconds later, the silver streaks melted away. She touched the silver star imprinted in the center of her forehead and it, to, vanished. 'Okay,' she thought, 'now to look around and get my bearings.'

***
At the same time, in a remote area on the other side of the park, an eerie light slowly shimmered in existence. It hovered, then slowly grew until it was a large, gaping hole. A moment later, a midnight black cat emerged. It glanced around, then as the portal closed behind it, began to shimmer and change form. Seconds later, a girl stood in it's place.

She had shoulder length, jet black hair and chilling ice blue eyes. She was clad in black leather and seemed to radiate with pure, evil energy. Throwing a quick glance around at her surroundings, she pulled out what appeared to be a communications device. She pushed a button and spoke into the tiny speaker.

"Zara to Queen Bagera, come in."

She waited a moment, then repeated her request. "Zara to Queen Bagera, do you read me?" A green light blinked on and a holographic image of a stern faced, black clad woman appeared in front of her.

"Report," she commanded in a low, gravelly voice.

"I've located her," Zara said. "She managed to lose me quite well on that last world, but she won't lose me on this one."

"I certainly hope not. Damn it Zara, we're running out of time! You s hould have captured that brat centuries ago!"

"I'm aware of that!" Zara snapped, "You try catching the little mouse! Not only is she tricky, but she's grown in strength and power over the centuries, adding to her annoying little ability to elude me!"

She paused, then added with a malicious smile, "But don't worry. As I said before, this will be the last planet I chase her to."

"What planet are you on now?" Bagera asked.

"Earth, I believe." Zara replied, looking around.

"Earth? Hmm. I do believe that is the planet your uncle and his bride are attempting to take over. I believe they have taken up residence on its moon. You might look them up, perhaps they can be of some assistance."

Zara nodded. "Right. I'll keep you informed."

"Give my love to your uncle... and my congratulations."

Zara smiled. "Yes mother. Zara out."

She pushed a button and broke the connection.

***
"Zeddie! I'm bored! Let's send something down to Earth and cause some chaos!"

Zedd looked up as his wife, Rita, stalked into the throne room.

"Patience my love," he growled, "I'm working on a plan this very moment."

"Oh? And what's that?"

Before he could answer, a movement in the doorway caught his attention. He turned towards it, expecting Goldar or one of his other lackeys. Instead, in walked the blackest cat he had ever seen.

"What the...? Rito, get your bony butt in here!" Rita screamed.

"What? Hey, what's up, sis?" Rito asked as he entered the throne room, Goldar behind him.

"Rito! How many times have I told you not to bring home strays?"

"Stray? What stray sis?"

"That stray, you moldy pile of bones!" Rita yelled angrily, pointing to the cat, which was now seated on Zedd's throne. Rito looked at the cat, then back at Rita.

"It's not mine, sis," he said in confusion.

"Well, if it's not yours, then how, in the name of the cosmos, did it get in here?"

Before anyone could answer, a low laugh echoed throughout the room. They all looked at the cat, who had begun to shimmer and change form. There was a sudden flash of light and the cat was replaced by a girl, sprawled lazily across the throne. She ran a hand through her pitch black hair and chuckled in amusement at the startled looks she received.

"Zara? Is that you?" Zedd asked in bewilderment.

"Zara? Zeddie, you know this girl?" Rita asked in surprise.

"Yes," Zedd replied slowly. "Zara is…niece."

"Niece!" Rita exclaimed, looking from Zedd to Zara and back again. Zara chuckled again as she got off the throne and sauntered over.

"Greetings uncle." She purred, "It's been far too long." She turned to Rita, bowing slightly. "You must be aunt Rita. It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"Zara," Zedd said, finally recovering from his surprise, "I haven't seen you since you first learned to mercilessly kill innocents. It is good to see you again."

"Mother sends her love and congratulations." Zara replied.

"Yes... How is my dear sister?"

"Miserable as usual. She has recently enslaved a small world and has been amusing herself killing off its populace."

"So what brings you here? You can't have traveled several hundred galaxies just for a pleasure visit."

"I'm hunting a mouse whose hiding out on Earth."

"Don't tell me you're still chasing that princess what's-her-name?"

Zara sighed and nodded. "Nineteen hundred long years. The little brat is tricky. But, with your help, this will be the last world I chase her to. One way or another, Earth is where it ends."

PART 2

"Hey guys." Jason said cheerfully as he joined his friends.

"Jason, you look great!" Tanya commented, taking in his bright expression.
"I feel great to." Jason replied, signaling Ernie for a fruit juice. "I've haven't slept so well in ages! You know, I'm begging to think those dreams were just brought on by stress and to many sci-fi movies."

The others glanced at each other, but said nothing.

"Up to some sparing, bro?" Tommy asked with a smile.

"You bet," Jason replied with a smile of his own.

"Looks like you'll have to wait a bit," Kat said, nodding in the direction of the mats. They all looked in the direction she had indicated and spotted a young girl gracefully moving through a series of tai-chi moves. As they watched, she suddenly launched into a mixture of karate, judo and another form none of them recognized.

The girl's moves were lightening quick and, if she had been fighting an enemy, she would have been deadly.

"Wow," Kat murmured, "She's really good."

"Has anybody seen her before?" Rocky asked.

"She must be new," Billy commented, "Nobody can remain unnoticed around here with moves like that."

The others nodded their agreement. Jason stared at the girl, fascinated. There was something about her....…he could feel it in his bones.

"Hey Jase, where ya going?"

He ignored the question as he got up and headed towards the mat, his eyes never leaving the mysterious girl.

***
Kamara finished the series of complicated moves with a fierce strike that, had it connected with anyone, would have proved fatal. The sound of clapping reached her ears, and she spun around, startled. She found a tall, good looking guy with short brown hair standing a few feet away, interest in his brown eyes.

"Sorry if I startled you," the guy said, coming up to her. "Those moves of yours are intense."

"Thanks," she replied softly, smiling shyly.

"I'm Jason," he said, holding out his hand.

"Kara," she responded, using her nickname. For a moment, their eyes met and a strong energy seemed to pass between them. Kamara suppressed a gasp and quickly lowered her eyes to keep him from seeing the silver glow she knew was there. She felt the illusion she had created to hide her alien features begin to dissolve and quickly summoned up a surge of power to keep it in place.

'Whoa,' she thought, 'what in the world caused that?' She looked back up at Jason, forcing a smile. 'Could it have been Jason?' Her thoughts were interrupted when Jason spoke.

"I was wondering if you'd like to join me and my friends."

Kamara looked at the table he gestured to and held back a look of surprise as she spotted the girl and two guys she had seen eariler.

'Couldn't hurt,' she thought, 'maybe I can find out if I'm really on the right world.'

She looked back at him and flashed a genuine smile.

"Sure, why not?"

Jason smiled back, then turned and led her back to the table.

"Guys, this is Kara. Kara, this is Adam, Tommy, Kat, Billy, and Rocky."

They exchanged greetings as Tommy pulled up a chair for her and she sat down. A slight tightness reminded her of the tight bun she had tied her hair in. reaching up, she pulled the pin out and shook her head, sending her long hair cascading down her back and around her shoulders, framing her face.

"So Kara, how long have you been in Angel Grove?" Kat asked, noticing with a hint of amusement the effect she was having on the guys.

"I arrived this morning actually. I checked into my hotel, went for a walk and ended up here."

"So you don't actually live here?" Jason asked with a hint of disappointment in his voice.

"Well, I'm traveling on my own. I have been since I was young and I usually stay in a place anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of years. The way things are looking, I'm considering staying at least a year," she added, throwing a shy glance at Jason.

'Stop it!' she chided herself mentally, 'you're not here to start a petty romance! Besides, the guy is human. You're as different as night and day. Although.... I admit he is rather cute.'

"Doesn't that get awfully expensive?" Tanya asked.

"Oh, I have relatives all over the place. My uncle owns the hotel I'm staying at now. He's letting me stay free of charge."

It was a straight out lie, of course. In reality, she had used some of her hypnotic power to make the manager -and anyone else who looked- think she was actually paying for it. That little trick had worked several times in the past when she had hidden out on worlds similar to earth.

"So where are you from Kara?" Adam asked, breaking into her thoughts.

"Um... A little village way out in the boon docks," she replied evasively. "Very few people have heard of it. Before they could question her further, she rushed on.

"Say, could I ask you guys something?"

The others exchanged quick glances, puzzled as to why she was being so mysterious about her origins.

"Sure," Jason spoke up, "shoot."

"Is this the city protected by the Power Rangers?"

"Sure is," Tommy answered, a hint of pride in his voice.

'Yes!' her mind shouted gleefully, 'after all this time I'm finally on the right planet. Now all I have to do is locate them.'

She put on an innocent, wide eyed expression and said in an awed voice, "You wouldn't know how to reach them would you? It's always been sort of a dream of mine to meet them," she added with a shy smile.

They glanced at each other again, then Rocky said-a little nervously, she noted- "Well, uh, actually no one knows. The only time anyone ever sees them is when there's a monster attack. No one knows where they spend their time when they're not fighting."

"Oh," Kamara replied with an air of disappointment. She didn't expect them to know, but she had to give some reason for asking. She brightened a little and added, "Well, maybe I'll luck out and see them while I'm here."

Too late did she noticed the sudden, evil power behind her. She jumped as a hand clamped down on her shoulder and stiffened as an all to familiar voice spoke.

"Well, isn't this a small world? Imagine running into you here of all places!"

Kamara looked up and found Zara, disguised as a pretty blond, standing next to her. She smiled warmly at Kamara but her eyes were ice cold. She looked up at the others and said brightly, "Hi, I'm Liz. I'm a close, personal friend of Kara's."

"I'm Kat," Kat said, extending her hand. Zara took it and an expression of surprise and confusion lit both girls' eyes.

"Nice to meet you," Zara said, looking at Kat strangely. One by one, the others spoke up, introducing themselves. Kamara remained silent, quietly praying that Zara wouldn't try anything with all the people around.

"Would you like to join us?" Tanya asked, smiling.

"Oh, no. I have to get going. People to see, and all that. It was nice meeting you all. Kara, we simply must get together and discuss.... old times. Hell, the way we keep running into each other, we should just travel together."

She gave Kara's shoulder a sharp squeeze and smiled. Kamara held back her gasp and looked up at Zara. There was an unspoken threat behind her words and her eyes held a dangerous spark.

"Yeah sure," she responded stiffly, letting her own threat creep into her eyes. She was glad her new friends weren't in the position to see the hidden exchange. She wasn't sure she'd be able to answer any questions they may have had.

Zara looked back at them, flashed a dazzling smile, then left.

"How long have you known her for?" Billy asked.

'Far too long,' she thought bitterly. Out loud she said, "Uh... since I was a child."

Her nervousness was starting to get the better of her and she thought it would probably be better if she left and planned her next move.

"Um, listen. I really have to go. My uncle's expecting me anytime now. I really enjoyed meeting all of you. Maybe we can get together later on."

Before anyone could respond she was gone. "Why do I get the feeling those two aren't as chummy as they'd like us to think?" Rocky asked, looking at the others.

"Yeah," Tanya agreed, "I don't think I've ever seen anybody so tense before."

"Hey Kat, you all right?" Tommy asked, taking in Kat's far away expression.

"Yeah, I'm fine." Kat answered slowly. "It's just that the strangest thing happened when I shook Liz's hand. I felt a strange energy and I had a sudden flashback to my days with Rita. It was kind of scary."

"You were probably just affected by the fact that she was so strange," Adam put in. "I know I was a little creeped out."

"I feel like there's something I should be remembering something here," Jason muttered softly. The others turned there attention to him and found him staring at the table thoughtfully. "There's something about her," he added, mostly to himself. "I can't explain it... I feel like I know her."

"Come on Bro," Tommy said, getting up. "Maybe a little sparring exercise will help clear your mind."

***
Kamara knew Zara was there before she even showed herself.

"We meet again, Princess," Zara said, appearing next to a tree. She had lost her disguise and was once again dressed in her black leather outfit.

"I really have to applaud that little trick you used to escape that last world. It took me quite awhile to get back on your trail.

"You're not taking me, Zara!" Kamara said fiercely. "I've escaped you on thousands of worlds and I'll continue to escape you through a thousand more!"

Zara let out a short laugh. "That's where you're wrong little mouse. This is the last world I chase you to. One way or another, our game ends here!"

"For once, we're in agreement!" Kamara closed her eyes and put a hand to her forehead, covering the silver star that was now there. "I call upon the powers of Silver Star!" she shouted.

Immediately, a silver light flared up and surrounded her. Her hand shot up to the sky and a bolt of lightning struck her, adding to the brilliant light. When the light subsided, Kamara stood, clothed in her Silver Star armor. She wore black, knee high boots with silver stars in the centers. The armor she wore was a silver cuirass (kew*ras). It was worn like a vest and consisted of a light-but fantastically strong-breast plate and back piece laced together at the sides with golden leather thongs.

A wicked looking sword was strapped to her back. A golden mask covering most of her face completed her uniform, bringing out her stunning green eyes.

"I'd like to introduce you to a few friends," Zara said, snapping her fingers. There was a flash of light and twelve giant birds appeared. Kamara dropped to a fighting stance.

"I'm surprised Zara," she quipped. "You usually don't befriend your food. Working on a new torture method?"

"Actually I am," Zara retorted, "and I happen to need someone to test it on. I choose you. Tengas, get her!"

The Tengas rushed her, and the fight was on. It didn't take her long to dispatch them, and when the last one disappeared, she looked up at Zara and laughed.

"What was that? A warm up exercise?"

"Maybe it was. But this isn't!"

The move was swift, but Kamara managed to block it and retaliated with a blow of her own.

***
"I just can't get over how strange Kara's friend was," Kat said, glancing at Rocky and Tanya. The threesome were walking through the park, on their way to Rocky's house.

"I can't get over how strange Kara was," Rocky replied.

"Hey," Tanya said, stopping suddenly and cocking her head to one side, listening. Rocky and Kat stopped, looking at her curiously.

"What's up?" Rocky asked.

"Listen. Can't you hear it?"

Kat and Rocky fell silent, listening. A moment later, strange sounds reached their ears.

"Hey, that sounds like fighting!" Kat exclaimed, looking at the others.

"Sounds like it's coming from over there," Rocky said, pointing to their right. Peering behind a clump of bushes, all three gasped in unison. Two girls, one dressed in a black leather body suit and the other in silver armor, were in the middle of a very heated battle. It was obvious that the girl in silver was hurt and wasn't likely to last much longer.

"We'd better but a stop to this," Rocky stated. The girls nodded in agreement and Rocky called out, "It's morphin time!"

"Zeo Ranger I- pink!"
"Zeo Ranger II-yellow!"
"Zeo Ranger III-blue!"

Rocky pulled out his Zeo blaster and fired a shot in between the two girl, knocking both to the ground.

"Haven't you ladies ever heard that it's bad manners to bring a fight to a world that has enough problems already?" he called out.

The girl in black stood, but the other remained on the ground, still stunned.

"Well now, who do we have here?" she purred, a small smile playing on her lips.

"Just call us the resident peace keepers," Rocky replied. "Now, since you two are obviously new around here, these two lovely ladies and I are going to give you the chance to walk away quietly, no questions asked. However, if you choose not to take us up on the offer...."

He trailed off, and all three subtlety fingered their blasters.

"Look, I really don't wish to cause trouble," the girl in black said. She gestured to the other girl, who was struggling to rise.

"This girl is my cousin, princess Zamira. Recently, she came in contact with a wizard's spell that, when finally broken, left her very confused. In her confusion, she came to believe that her family was not her family and that she was in danger. She fled. I, being her closest friend, was given the duty by her mother, my aunt, to find and bring her back, even if it meant engaging her in battle."

"No! Don't…listen to her!" the other girl gasped, still struggling to get up. Kat went over and knelt next to her, examining her wounds. She looked up at her friends after a moment and spoke.

"I think her leg is broken."

"Perhaps you could assist me in getting her back to my base so that I might repair any damage and get her home safely," the girl in black said.

"No," the other girl said weakly, "she's not my cousin. She means... to take me back so her people... can sacrifice me."

She looked like she wanted to say more, but was unable to.

"There, that's the perfect example of what I've been telling you."

Kat looked into the stunning green eyes of the girl, then up at her 'cousin', and suddenly had a very bad feeling.

"Please," the girl whispered, her eyes pleading, "don't let her take me."

"Call it a hunch," Rocky spoke up, "but I don't think she wants to go with you. I don't blame her either. I get the feeling you're not who you say you are."

"I don't this is any concern of yours," the girl in black responded coldly. "I'm taking my cousin and leave and nobody is going to stop me. Now step aside!"

She started forward, but stopped when Kat stood and fell into a defensive position.

"You're not taking her anywhere!" she stated as Rocky and Tanya moved to join her.

"Sorry lady," Rocky added, "but if you want her, you'll have to go through us first." Before anyone could make a move, there was a flash of light followed by an exclamation from Tanya.

"Hey, she's gone!"

The other girl's eyes burned red with anger.

"You'll pay for that Rangers!" she growled softly. "You have no idea how long it took me to track that mouse here and I'll be damned if I'm going to let her get away again!"

"For someone whose supposed to be her cousin and best friend, you sure have some negative feelings happening," Rocky quipped. The girl glared at them and said, "You've just made yourselves a dangerous enemy."

"Well, does our "dangerous enemy" have a name?" Rocky asked in a voice laced with sarcasm. The girl's smile gave all three chills and her voice was just as cold as she said, "Zara."

Then, in a flash of black flame, she was gone.

"We'd better get back to the Power Chamber and tell Zordon about this," Tanya said. Rocky and Kat nodded in agreement and the three quickly disappeared in flashes of pink, yellow and blue.

***
After Tommy and Jason arrived in the Power Chamber, the threesome proceeded to tell about their strange encounter with the two girls.

"Before she disappeared, she said her name was Zara," Rocky finished.

"Ai-yi-yi! Oh no! Not Zara!" Alpha V wailed.

"You know her?" Tanya asked, looking up at Zordon. Before Zordon could answer, Kat spoke up quietly.

"Let me guess. She's Zedd's niece isn't she?"

There was a moment of stunned surprise, then Zordon replied.

"Yes, Katherine, you are correct."

"How in the world did you know that?" Tanya asked, astounded.

"I... I don't know," Kat replied slowly, a puzzled expression in her blue eyes. "It was almost as though it was part of my instinct or something."

She looked up and a frown crossed her pretty features. "Jason? You all right?"

They all turned their attention to Jason, who was staring into space, his face pale.

"Jase? What's wrong? You look like you've seen a ghost man!" Tommy said, concern filling his brown eyes.

"Did... did she have a silver star in the middle of her forehead?" he asked huskily.

"As a matter of fact, she did," Tanya replied, thinking back. This caused Jason to turn even whiter, and Tommy grabbed his arm for fear that he would fall over.

"Silver Star," he whispered. "She's here. I really did bring her back with me."

"Zara's a fierce and powerful warrior," Kat said, causing the others to once again look at her in surprise. Kat continued on, appearing not to notice their looks. In fact, she appeared to be in a trance.

"Zara is Bagera's eldest daughter and the empire's most dangerous warrior. She was the equivalent of ten or eleven earth years when Bagera assigned her the task of pursuing and capturing Kamara. She has chased Kamara for nineteen hundred years, returning home only once for the burial of her twin sister, Katamina, who was killed in a battle with an enemy empire."

Kat blinked and looked around, the focus returning to her eyes.

"Sorry, what were we talking about?"

"Uh, Kat? Do you know what you just said?" Adam asked.

Kat looked at him curiously. "Yeah, I just asked what we were talking about. It... seems to have slipped my mind," she added slowly, putting a hand to her head.

"You just went though a history of Zara as though you knew her all your life," Tanya said.

"Man, this is getting weird, you guys," Rocky put in as Kat's eyes took on a look of confusion.

"Rangers, as Katherine said, Zara is a very dangerous enemy. It is imparative that we locate Kamara and bring her into our custody before Zara finds her again. Keep a close watch, for she had most likely disguised herself as a human and is walking among you."

"Wait a minute," Tanya said, "You guys, what about Kara? I mean, she's new, she's traveling on her own, she even asked if we knew how to contact the Rangers!"

"You're right," Tommy jumped in, "she could definitely be Kamara."

"Rangers, keep a close eye on your friend. If you feel that there is no doubt as to her identity, confront her, and then bring her here."

The Rangers nodded, then teleported out.

***

PART 3

Kamara sat in a clearing in the middle of the forest, finishing the repairs to her injuries. She had teleported herself there the previous day, after escaping Zara, and had fallen into a deep sleep. When she had awakened, she immediately set to work repairing herself. She had started with the minor injuries, working her way up to her broken leg.

When she was done, she stood and tested her work. She smiled.

'With the exception of a few bruises, good as new.' As she began walking out of the woods, her thoughts turned to the battle she had barely escaped from. If she had known her energy level was as low as it was, she never would have fought. She was grateful her three saviors showed up when they did. She regretted not being able to thank them for buying her the time she needed to teleport herself to safety. Perhaps they would meet again and she would get her chance.

'They may even know how to contact the Power Rangers.'

"Kara! Hey, Kara wait up!"

Kamara, who was out of the forest and somewhere in the park, turned to see who was calling her. She smiled when she saw it was Jason, and quickly added more power to her illusion, remembering the strange effect he had on her.

"Hi Jason, how are you? It's a great morning isn't it?"

'Strange,' she thought, 'I'm suddenly sensing a power within him.'

Her thoughts were broken as Jason said, "Are you on your way to the Youth Center?"

"Yeah, I guess I am," she replied, hoping he didn't hear the slight tension in her voice.

'Is he working for Zara?' she wondered, 'better scan him.' She sent her mind out to him, searching for evil intentions. She mentally sighed in relief when she detected none and decided that whatever power he carried was pure and good.

"Great! How about I buy you a soda?" Jason was saying. She looked up at him and smiled, the tension she had felt, melting away. Upon arriving at the Youth Center, they found the others already there. As she sat down, she once again sensed power. She suppressed her surprise to find it was coming from the others at the table. The power she felt was much the same as what she felt in Jason and it confused her. She felt her own powers responding and struggled not to loose control of her illusion.

'What's going on?' she wondered, 'I didn't sense this in them yesterday. Why now all of a sudden? And why am I responding?'

"Where did you get those bruises Kara?" Kat asked in a concerned voice.

Kamara looked down at her right arm where a nasty bruise showed and cursed herself for not hiding it better.

"Oh that," she grinned sheepishly. "I had a rough time in the pool last night. I misjudged my jump from the diving board and whacked my arm on the way down."

She paused, then decided to steer the topic away form herself. "Want to spar a little with me Jason?" she asked.

"Sure, why not," Jason replied, exchanging quick glances with the others as he stood. Once they were out of ear shot, Rocky spoke up.

"Well, that's new one. I expected her to say she walked into a wall or fell down the stairs or something."

"Remember Rocky," Billy said, "She's probably not from this world, so therefore she doesn't know our more popular list of lame excuses."

"Looks like Jase has met his match," Tommy said with a grin, watching the pair spar. They watched as the pair basically took turns putting each other flat on his or her back for several minutes.

Finally, they stopped and talked for a moment, then Kara nodded and fell into a stance while Jason moved off to the side. She closed her eyes and went through a series of strange, Tai-Chi-like movements. When she finished, she motioned Jason over and slowly repeated the movements with Jason mimicking her. It wasn't long before he had the moves mastered and the twosome were moving fluently through the motions in perfect unison. At the table, the six teens watched, transfixed.

"It's beautiful," Kat whispered in awe. The others nodded in silent agreement.

***
Jason moved through the motions like he had known them all his life. He felt calm and relaxed. More so than he had ever felt in his life. He felt his mind open and reach out. He never felt more free. His mind suddenly touched upon something, startling him. It felt like another awareness, laced with power. Curious, he pushed his mind further, and was suddenly engulfed in a silver light. When the light cleared, he found himself in the middle of a majestic looking forest.

'Where in the world?' he thought, startled. He was in the middle of a small clearing, surrounded by tall, almost proud trees. The forest floor was lush green and flowers of all types and color littered the ground.

Jason was surprised to see that everything was tinged with silver, the sky included. A movement out of the corner of his eye caught his attention, and he quickly spun towards it, dropping to a defensive position. His eyes widened at what he saw. About twenty feet away, a pure white unicorn stood, watching him calmly.

Seeing that she had his attention, she turned and walked back into the forest, pausing only to look back at him, then continue on. Jason followed, sensing that this was what she wanted. He lost sight of her for a moment as he carefully climbed a steep path, and hoped she would wait for him. When he reached the top, he discovered her standing several feet away, staring out over the horizon.

Jason joined her and started when he found that they were at the edge of a very steep cliff. He jumped back nervously as he saw the long drop and looked at his guide. The beautiful beast was watching him with amusement in her silverish-blue eyes.

'It's all right child,' her elegant voice whispered in his mind, 'you are in no danger here.'

She turned her attention back to the horizon. Jason cautiously approached and stood next to her, eyeing the drop suspiciously. Finally managing to tear his eyes away, he looked up at the horizon and gasped.

Formed against a horizon of mountains and brilliant colors, was a breathtaking, majestic castle of silver crystal. No words could describe the view.

"Where….... where are we?" Jason whispered, finally finding his voice.

'You will know in time child,' the unicorn replied. 'All you need to know at this moment is that you and your friends will one day play an important part in this kingdom's survival.' Her eyes took on a sad look. 'Great evil and treachery will descend upon it in a time of long deserved peace. Not even their greatest warrior will be able to defeat this evil. Only the power you and your friends possess will be able to save this world.'

"Who are you?" Jason asked softly, unable to tear his eyes away from the beauty he was seeing. "How do you know all this?"

'I am the spiritual guardian of this world. That is all I can tell you at present, golden power child. Your presence here indicates that you are the one who shares the incredible bond with the future queen of this world. I can no longer provide her with the protection she needs. Only you and the pink power child can provide her with the protection she will need in the coming battles.'

"Katherine?"

She nodded her great head. 'Yes, the pink one will find that she possesses and special immunity to most of the power of the evil one.'

The guardian paused, then added, 'but I have told you too much. It is time for you to return.'

She rested her horn on Jason's forehead and her voice whispered softly in his mind.

'You will not remember anything of this meeting, other than the fact that you must protect the princess. All else you have been told will remain in the back of your subconsiousness, until the time is right. Now, power child... return.'

Jason was once again engulfed in the silver light, and when it cleared, he found himself back in the Youth Center, finishing the motions with Kara. All memories of the meeting with the guardian vanished the instant he became aware of his surroundings. They finished to a round of clapping. Startled, they looked up to find that they had captured the attention of almost the entire center. Blushing, they nodded their heads in acknowledgment. As the audience dispersed, Jason turned to Kamara and spoke.

"Wow, that was amazing! I've never felt anything like it!"

Kamara smiled, a sad look in her green eyes. "That was my first reaction," she said softly. "I learned it from a special friend I met in my travels. It's always served to relax me and make me feel better when I'm down."

She fell silent, and, for a split second, Jason thought he saw tears in her eyes. But as fast as they had come, they were gone, leaving Jason to wonder if he had actually seen anything at all.

"Uh, Kara?" he said, remembering something he wanted to ask her.

"Yes?" She looked up at him and Jason's heart skipped a beat as their eyes met.

"Uh, there's a spring dance here tonight and I was wondering if you'd like to go with me?"

Kamara's expression lit up. "I'd love to Jason," she replied, smiling.

Jason smiled back. "Great! Meet you here at seven?"

Kamara nodded. "It's a date!"

***
Later that evening, Katherine and Tanya, chattering animatedly, walked through the park on their way to the dance at the Youth Center. Both girls were wearing simple sundresses. Nothing too stylish, but just perfect for the occasion. As they walked, Kat suddenly got the strangest feeling that they were being watched. She stopped and turned, scanning the area.

"Kat?" what's wrong?" Tanya asked, stopping and looking back at her friend.

"Do... do you get the feeling we're being watched?" Kat asked slowly.

"Always," Tanya replied with a smile. "It's probably just Zedd and Rita. You know how they are." She shrugged dismissivly.

"No, it's not Zedd and Rita, I'm sure of that. I'm used to being watched by them. I know what it feels like because of my time with Rita.This feels different."

A rustle in the bushes off to their right startled them and they both spun around, dropping to fighting stances. A tense moment later, a pitch black cat emerged and looked at them curiously. Tanya looked at it and laughed.

"Look that! You're getting us both worked up over nothing! Come on, let's get to the Youth Center. The guys are probably already there."

She turned and started walking again, but Kat remained where she was, staring at the feline. The cat looked up at her with eerie yellow eyes that seemed to shimmer. She didn't like it. There was something very wrong, very unnatural about the feline that gave Kat goosebumps.

"Kat! Come on!" Tanya called. Kat tore her eyes away and looked back at Tanya. When she looked back, the cat was gone. "Coming!" she called back.

Throwing one last, uneasy glance around the area, she turned and hurried to catch up with her friend.

***
The black cat reemerged from the bushed and watched to the girls depart. It then shimmered and a flash of light burst forth. When it cleared, Zara stood in its place, studding Kat's retreating form hard.

'There's something about you pink ranger,' she thought, 'and I'm going to find out what it is.'

***
Twenty minutes later, the girls were standing with the guys in a small cluster at the snack table, laughing and talking. As a slow song came on, Tommy turned to Kat, bowed slightly and offered her his hand.

"Care to dance, my lady?" he asked, his brown eyes sparkling. Kat smiled and replied, "Of course Mr. Oliver."

She took his hand and he led her to the dance floor.

"Hey Jase," Rocky said softly, "Look who's here."

Jason looked in the direction Rocky indicated, and a small smile lit his face. Kamara stood in the doorway, looking around curiously. She was dressed in a knee high silverish green summer dress, which effectively set off her dark red hair.

"Wow," Rocky murmured.

"I'll second that," Adam added, receiving a light punch in the shoulder from Tanya.

"'Scuse me guys," Jason said, his eyes never leaving her as he made his way over.

"Kara, you look fantastic!" he exclaimed when he reached her. She smiled and glanced down at her dress.

"You don't think it's too much?"

"No way. It's perfect." He smiled and took her hand. "Want to dance?"

Three and a half dances later, Tommy and Kat rejoined the others in the corner at the snack table. Tommy chuckled as he scanned the crowd and spotted Jason and Kara, dancing close, their eyes locked together.

"I don't think I've ever seen Jason this love struck before."

Billy looked around, then lowered his voice and said, "I crossed referenced Kara's description with the description of the girl that you rescued, requesting the probability that they're one and the same."

"And?" Tommy asked anxiously.

"There's a ninety eight point five percent chance that Kara is Kamara."

Rocky let out a low whistle. "Wow, not much of a chance for error is there?"

"We'd better watch ourselves guys," Tommy said, his gaze returning to Jason and Kara. "If we're right about this, things could get real ugly real fast".

***
Kamara found herself once again struggling not to loose control of her illusion as she swayed to the soft music in Jason's arms. She found she had to use more power than usual to sustain the illusion, and couldn't understand why. She also didn't understand the powerful bond she felt growing between them. Nor the fact she liked being in his arms. That it felt right, somehow.

'What is it about you?' she thought as she gazed into his warm brown eyes. 'How are you effecting me like this? Most importantly, why do I feel so drawn to you? Like I've known you all my life?'

Her thoughts were interrupted as an all too familiar power penetrated her senses. Tearing her eyes away, she looked towards the door and tensed up slightly. Zara, disguised once again as Liz, stood there, looking around with an interest that Kara didn't like.

"Something wrong?" She looked back and found Jason looking down at her with a hint of concern.

"Um, no. Listen... do you want to go for a walk and get some air?"

"Yeah, all right," Jason replied with a nod. She took his hand and led him towards the door in a path that guaranteed Zara wouldn't spot them.

Once outside, she turned to Jason and asked, "So, do you want to walk in the park?"

Jason looked up at the dimming sky and said, "I have a better idea. Come on, there's something I want to show you."

Ten minutes later, after a quick short cut through the park, they ended up in a secluded area surrounded by forest.

"Come on, this way," Jason said, leading her up a short hill. At the top was a small, grassy area that ended abruptly at a cliff with a steep drop. Taking her hand, Jason led her to within a few feet of the edge and pointed.

Kamara gasped as she took in the stunning view. It was even more spectacular than the one she had seen the day she first arrived. The colors of the setting sun deeply added to the effect and she found herself speechless for several moments.

"Jason, it... it's beautiful," she said softly, finally finding her voice. Jason nodded.

"Yeah. Not too many people know about this place. I like to come up here and just sit and think or practice my martial arts."

There was a moment of silence, and then Jason asked softly, "Kamara?"

"Yes?" came the quiet reply. Jason hesitated, unsure how to phrase his question. Finally, he decided on the direct approach.

"You're in trouble aren't you?"

He watched her stiffen, then relax and turn to him, a puzzled look on her face. But she couldn't hide the tension-and slight fear-in her eyes.

"I'm... not sure what you mean."

"Yes, I think you do," Jason replied in a gentle, yet firm voice. "Kara, you're displaying all the classic symptoms of someone on the run. Especially one who's been on the run a long time. You never stay in one place very long, you're never completely relaxed, and you're constantly looking over you're shoulder like you're expecting someone to suddenly jump out and attack you."

Kamara looked at him, ready to deny his words, but as she looked into his eyes, she realized she couldn't. She looked away, tears filling her eyes.

"Yes," she whispered, "I am on the run."

'Bingo!' Jason thought. He put his hand on her shoulder and said, "I can help you know." This caused her to spin around, terror in her tear- filled eyes.

"No, Jason! Please, promise me you won't get involved! My pursuers are dangerous. More dangerous than you could ever imagine!"

Jason was about to tell her that he knew who she was and also tell her who he was, but something stopped him. He thought he heard a voice whispering in the back of his mind, telling him it was not yet time.

'Time? What does that mean?' he thought, but the voice didn't answer. Instead, Jason felt a force overcome him, keeping him from speaking the information he wished to share with her. Unable to tell her what he knew, he simply stood there and listened as she continued with a far away look.

"I... I lost so many people I loved because they intervened and tried to help me. I would be broken beyond all hope if anything happened to you because you tried to help." She paused, then added, "I'm searching for a friend of my mother's. He has the power to help me and I'm close to finding him, I can feel it. I don't want to run anymore. All I want is to go home and see my family again. With his help, I'll be able to do that."

She turned away and looked out at the dying light of the sun, the tears flowing freely down her cheeks.

"I'm so tired of making friends and falling in love only to watch them suffer or die at the hands of that wretched creature!" she whispered.

Jason reached out and gently turned her so she was facing him. Their eyes met and locked. Despite her emotional state, Kamara's heart was racing at the fact they were only inches apart.

He gently stroked her tear-stained face, causing shivers to race up and down her spine. She closed her eyes as Jason's head slowly moved towards hers. Seconds later, their lips met in a soft, gentle kiss that seemed to go on forever. When they finally broke apart, Kamara sighed and leaned her head against his chest, looking at the last rays of the sunset. They remained that way for a long time.

PART 4

"It's definitely her," Jason said the next morning as he joined Tommy, Rocky, and Adam in the park. Jason quickly explained what she had told him, leaving out the more private details.

"So what's our next move?" Rocky asked when Jason had finished.

"We're going to have to confront her and soon," Tommy said, "I doubt things are going to stay quiet for much longer."

"Got it covered bro," Jason said, his gaze fixed on a figure a short distance away. The voice that had spoken to him the night before was back, whispering to him that the time was now right. He felt the restraint that had been placed on him lifted, and the urge to tell her everything rushed at him, almost overwhelming him.

"I'll catch up with you guys later," he said, rushing off toward the figure.

Tommy looked at Rocky and Adam and said, "I'll meet you guys at the Youth Center in a bit. I have something's to take care of."

Tommy took off in the opposite direction as Rocky and Adam nodded and continued on.

***
"Hey," Jason said in greeting when he reached her, "We need to talk."

Kamara looked at Jason's serious expression and frowned, suddenly nervous.

"Okay, what about?"

"Not here," Jason said, looking around at the people scattered about. "Come on, this way."

He took her hand and led her to a secluded, deserted area of the park where they could talk without being observed. Taking a deep breath, he looked her in the eyes and spoke.

"Kamara, I know."

Kamara looked at him blankly. "What do you...?" Her voice trailed off and her eyes widened. "What... what did you call me?"

"Kamara. I know who you are, where you're from.... everything."

Kamara's eyes suddenly took on fear, and she started backing away. Jason quickly, but gently grabbed her arm to keep her from bolting and said: "No, no, it's all right. I don't want to harm you, I want to help you."

"Who... who are you?" Kamara asked, her voice tinged with suspicion.

Instead of replying, Jason followed a powerful urge. He cupped her face in his hands, and pressed his lips to hers in a long, firm kiss. That was all Kamara could take. The power she was drawing on to keep her illusion in place wavered and was cut off. Without the power to keep it operating, the illusion slowly melted away. The first to appear was the silver star in the center of her forehead. It glowed softly, then intensified into a bright flash of light that enveloped them both. When it cleared, they were no longer in the park, but a very familiar looking forest. They broke apart, her eyes glowing silver beneath her golden mask. With a brilliant flash of green, they returned to normal, holding a stunned expression as she looked at him. Her gaze moved past and behind them and her eyes widened even more.

"White Mist!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with joy. A flood of memories rushed back to Jason as he turned and saw the unicorn. Kamara rushed forward and embraced the beast lovingly.

"Why haven't you come to me for so long? I miss our walks and talks.

"So that's your name," Jason said, stepping forward. Kamara looked at him, surprised.

"You know one another?"

'Kamara, golden one, listen carefully to what I'm about to tell you,' White Mist's voice echoed through their minds before Jason could respond. 'What I have to tell you is very important. Kamara, the reason I have not appeared to you in so long is because your time of fleeing is drawing to an end. Earth is the final battle that will decide your fate. Although I will never leave you, I can no longer fully protect you as I have for so many centuries. The duty has been passed to the golden power child, who possesses a part of the power needed that I cannot give to truly defeat Zara. The two of you have finally completed an incredible bond. You are soul mates, which may seem strange to you considering you are from different worlds and galaxies. However, despite the great differences, you are both mortal. The love you share goes far beyond that of mortal love, however. You will find that you can hear one another's thoughts and feel one another's pain.'

She paused, and a far away look entered her silverish blue eyes. When they cleared, she continued, 'My time grows short. Listen carefully, in times of battle, when you are in serious trouble and need help, you may call on me. Remember,' she added as she began to fade, 'I am always with you. Just look in your hearts.'

As her image faded, so did the forest. Moments later, they were back in the park and Kamara was once more in her normal clothes. Her illusion, however, remained non-existent. She looked up at Jason, her eyes glowing in reaction.

"Jason? Are you.... ugh!" She was abruptly interrupted as a powerful blast hit her from behind, throwing her to the ground. Pain exploded from somewhere within Jason and he fell to his knees, gasping.

"Kamara, are you... all right?" he wheezed. His answer came with the feelings that enveloped him. The blast that had struck her had left her very hurt and very weakened. She was also bleeding, he discovered as his hand came in contact with a wet substance. A low chuckle caught his attention and he looked behind him to find a girl, clad all in black, matching Zara's description.

"Stand away human, and you won't get hurt. Your little girlfriend is coming with me."

"Over my dead body!" Jason snarled. He felt a surge of power flow through him and guessed Kamara was trying to help him. He stood and shouted, "It's morphin time! Gold Ranger Power!"

"Well, well," Zara purred, "so you're one of the Rangers. I'm going to enjoy this."

She launched herself at Jason and the battle was on.

After several moments of trading blows, Jason began to weaken. He was painfully aware that Kamara was barely conscious, and it was severely affecting him.

_Gotta get help!_ he thought as he stumbled. Through the haze that was clouding his senses, he saw Zara send an energy bolt at him. Before he could act, it hit him square in the chest. He felt pain explode through him and, in a shower of sparks, fell to the ground.

He heard Kamara cry out weakly as the pain extended to her and felt fear rise in his stomach.

"Zordon!" Jason yelled into his communicator in a pain filled voice, "this is Jason! I... need help... now!" With that said, the last of the energy feed faded, and he collapsed, fighting the darkness that threatened to overtake him. Zara smiled and slowly walked towards him, energy crackling in her hands.

"Say goodbye, Ranger," she murmured.

"Not so fast Zara!" a familiar voice shouted. She looked up and was immeaditly assaulted with lazer blasts. She hit the ground hard and lay still for a moment, stunned. Shaking her head, she looked up and saw the three Rangers she had argued with a few days earlier, plus one more, this one green.

"How many of you brats are there?" she muttered, standing. "I told you before, Rangers," she called, "Nobody is going to stop me from taking the girl back where she belongs!"

"Is that a fact?" Rocky shot back, "Looks like we're doing a pretty good job of that so far!"

Eyes burning with anger, Zara discharged the energy she still held in her hands, which they skillfully dodged. They'd been fighting for less than a minute, when a sharp voice rang out, "Enough!"

The battle stopped, and everyone turned in the direction of the voice. Tommy, clad in his Ranger uniform, stood a few feet away from where Tanya knelt, checking Kamara and Jason over, and protecting them from the fury of battle.

"Rangers! Fall back!" he ordered in a voice that suggested he would not tolerate disobedience. As the Rangers went to their leader, Zara spoke.

"Well now, you must be the one in charge of this energetic little group. Now maybe I can talk to someone with some real authority."

She empathized authority, glaring at Rocky, who glared back under his helmet. Tommy ignored her and put a warning hand on Rocky's shoulder. Looking down at Tanya, he asked, "How are they?"

"Kamara's unconscious. She looks like she may be hurt pretty bad," she added, raising a blood stained, gloved hand. "Jason's not in too good a shape either, but I think he's still conscious."

"Get them back to the Power Chamber and have Billy and Alpha check them out."

"Wait!"

Tanya paused and looked at Zara uncertainingly.

"Look," Zara said in her best pleading voice, "I know what those three told you about our encounter the other day didn't sound so good. But you must believe me, all I want to do is take the girl back to her family where she belongs."

"Forget it, Zara," Tommy said coldly. He signaled to Tanya, who disappeared with their injured friends in a flash of colored light. Tommy turned back to Zara and added, "We know all about you and your little hunting spree. As of now, Princess Kamara is officially under the protection of the Power Rangers! You want her, you'll have to go through us first!"

Zara's eyes flashed a ruby red as she stared at the teens in a way that sent chills through all of them. The red flickered momentarily as her gaze stopped on Kat. Kat shifted uncomfortably and unconsciously fingered her blaster as she glanced at Tommy.

'Hmm,' Zara thought, 'as much fun as it would be to take them all on at once, I think it would be much wiser to retreat and gather up a force of whatever uncle Zedd has to offer. Besides, I want a chance to call upon my more special powers to fight their leader with. Taking him down will require a lot of strength and brute savagery.'

"This is far from over Rangers! I'll be back!"

She disappeared in a flash of black flame. Adam was the only one who noticed Kat's shoulder's sag in relief. Before he could say or do anything however, Tommy ordered the return to the Power Chamber.

"Billy, how are they?" Tommy asked as soon as they arrived. "Kamara's in pretty bad shape, but I think she'll pull through." Billy replied.

"And Jason?"

Billy frowned and looked at Jason. "It's strange. According to the scans, he should be all right. He has a few minor injuries, but they shouldn't be affecting him like this."

"He also keeps mumbling something about a bond and something called 'White Mist'," Tanya added.

"Ai-yi-yi!" Alpha suddenly exclaimed, "I don't believe it!"

They all turned to where Alpha stood, holding a scanner over Jason and comparing the results to a second scanner in his other hand.

"Alpha, what's wrong?" Tommy asked in concern.

"Jason seems to be reacting to Kamara's injuries."

"What does that mean?" Rocky asked.

"Well, it appears as though he's sharing her pain," Billy explained, picking up a strange device and going over to Kamara.

"What are you doing Billy?" Kat asked.

"Watch," Billy replied, flicking a switch. They all jumped as an electrical current flared up, surrounding the upper part of the gizmo. Tommy quickly grabbed Billy's wrist, keeping him from moving.

"Billy, are you nuts!?"

"It's all right Tommy," Billy replied calmly. "This won't hurt her anymore than she already is. Just watch."

Tommy hesitated a moment, then his trust in Billy took over and he let go of the other boy's wrist. Billy put the electrical current down lightly on Kamara's arm, and they watched as Jason reacted.

"See? He seems to be reacting to Kamara's pain. I don't understand how he's doing it. What do you think, Zordon? Zordon?"

Billy turned and looked up, as did the others. Zordon's eyes held a far-away look, as though he was communicating with someone telepathically. Finally, after several moments, his eyes refocused and he looked down at the teens.

"Rangers, I have just spent the last several moments communicating with someone who has given me the answers to your questions. First of all, White Mist is not the name of a place or a thing, but is the name of the spiritual guardian of Silvermist, Kamara's home world. She has informed me that Jason and Kamara share a special bond that enables them to, among other things, feel one another's pain. Because their bond is so new and strong, Jason reacted to Kamara's pain and injuries like they were his own. There was no time for the bond to readjust itself to a level where their reactions to one another would not be quite so severe."

He paused, looking as though he was listening to something. Finally, he spoke again. "Rangers, Kamara must be conscious to fully heal herself. All six of you must lend a hand in helping to revive her, so that she may accomplish this task."

"How do we do that?" Adam asked.

"First, each of you place a hand on a part of her upper body, close to her heart. Except for you Kat," he quickly added as the six teens began to do as instructed. "I have been told that you are to place your hand over the star in the center of her forehead."

Once everyone was in place, Zordon continued. "Now, close your eyes, and allow your energies to flow. Do not be alarmed should you feel a slight pull, it is just Kamara taking samples to help pull herself back to consciousness. The teens did as they were told, and each jerked as they felt the pull Zordon told them about. The pulling suddenly subsided, and they opened their eyes with a start as Kat gasped loudly. Looking at her, they found that she was staring straight ahead, with a fixed, vacant look in her eyes and was surrounded in a soft, pink aura.

"Zordon, what's going on?" Tommy asked in alarm, reaching out for Kat.

"Do not touch her Tommy. She is not in any danger. It would appear that Kamara is drawn to Katherine's energy and is using her alone to complete the task at hand."

'Billy, Adam, Rocky.' The three boys looked up at Zordon in surprise as his voice echoed through their minds. 'Despite the fact that she is not in physical danger, Tommy is not going to like what is about to happen. Be ready to subdue him.'

The three looked at each other, then back at Zordon, and nodded. Tanya was looking at them curiously, but Adam made a guesture that said he would tell her later.

They all turned their attention towards Kat, the three guys subtly positioning themselves by Tommy, ready to act if needed. Kat had turned, her hand still on Kamara's forehead, and was slowly reaching over to where Jason lay, eyes half closed and glazed over. The hand on Kamara's forehead flared with energy that traveled up Kat's arm, illuminating the rest of her body, and traveling down her other arm. As her fingers touched Jason's forehead, the soft pink glow exploded into a silverish pink.

Kat's eyes went wide and her head flew back as she released a startling scream.

"Kat!" Tommy exclaimed, panicking. He started towards her, but Billy, Rocky, and Adam quickly pounced on him, holding him back. He struggled against them, yelling Kat's name as she continued to scream.

After almost losing him three times, Zordon said, "Rocky, Adam, Billy, take Tommy to another Chamber and keep him there until Katherine is finished."

"Easier said than done," Rocky muttered as they attempted to drag their violently struggling leader from the chamber. Tanya watched the scene, stunned. Not knowing what else to do, she went to an out of the way spot and sat down to wait patiently.

"Chamber six, open!" Billy grunted as they approached one of the chambers. "Don't let him go," Billy ordered as they entered. He left the struggling boys, hurried over to a council and punched in some codes.

"Hurry up Billy!" Rocky gasped.

"Okay," Billy said as the door slid closed and a red light blinked on. "Let him go."

They released him and Tommy immediately ran to the door, trying to force it open.

"Won't work, Tommy," Billy said, "I've got the security system operating. The door won't open until the right codes are entered.

"Then open it, goddamit!" Tommy shouted, pounding the door with his fist and whirling around angrily.

"Tommy," Zordon's filtered through a hidden speaker, catching his attention, "You must understand that Katherine is in no danger and only in mild pain."

"That's supposed to make me feel better?" Tommy snapped, glaring around the room. "Let me out of here, now!"

"I'm afraid not, Tommy. You are in an extremely high state of emotion. Katherine has now entered a state where she can easily pick up on emotions around her. Should she pick up on yours, it would confuse her and interfere with what she is doing."

"I thought she was supposed to be feeding Kamara energy to help her regain consciousness," Tommy said, his anger and panic still high. "I can see that's not happening, so what the hell is?"

"That is something that cannot be explained until Kamara regains consciousness." His voice was firm as he added, "I know you are worried, but you must remain here until Katherine is finished."

Tommy stared at the door for a moment, then turned to the others, his eyes flashing. It was obvious Zordon's words did nothing to calm him.

"Billy," he said in a low growl, "open this door, that's an order."

Billy's first instinct was to obey, but he forced himself to stay where he was and respond, "I'm sorry, Tommy. I can't do that. You heard what Zordon said."

Rocky and Adam tensed as a dangerous glare entered Tommy's eyes. Billy stared back at him calmly. Finally, Tommy, gave in and stalked over to the other side of the chamber, where a few pieces of gym equipment waited, and began beating a punching bag. Rocky and Adam let their breaths out in relief and both noticed Billy visibly relax. The three boys stayed on the other side of the room as Tommy pummeled the bag violently. It always made everyone, particularly Billy, nervous whenever Tommy got in such a foul mood.

It reminded Billy too much of the days Tommy had spent as the evil green Ranger. In fact, the only Ranger who wasn't afraid of Tommy when he was this angry was Jason. Billy chalked it up to the fact that the two boys were so close. Keeping an eye on Tommy, the threesome quietly sat down to wait.

***
"Uncle Zedd? Uncle Zedd! Where are you?"

Zedd snapped awake from where he was dozing on his throne to the bellows of his niece.

"Oh in the name of the cosmos!" he grumbled, then shouted, "I'm in here, damn it!"

Zara sauntered into the room and looked around. Where's Aunt Rita?" she asked.

"How should I know? I gave up trying to keep tabs on that woman long ago. She's probably in one of her spell rooms or something."

"Well, find her. She's going to want to hear what I have to say."

"And what's that?" Zara smiled.

"You'll hear about when Rita gets here. Let's just say it involves an all-out war and the fall of Zeo Ranger V."

Zedd regarded her for a moment, then yelled, "Goldar! Get in here!"

"Yes, my lord?" the giant space ape growled as he entered the room.

"Find Rita and tell her to get here immediately." Zedd ordered. Goldar nodded and left. Several moments later, Rita stalked into the room, yelling.

"Zedd, what the hell is so important that you had to send monkey boy to disturb me during my spell memorization exercises?!"

"Chill, Aunt Rita," Zara said from where she was leaning against a wall, casually filing her nails. "You're not going to mind the disturbance after you hear what I have to say. The Rangers my little mouse into their protective custody. I've chased that little bitch for nineteen hundred long years and I'm not about to let a bunch of human brats get in the way of finally capturing her. Now, here's my proposal. You provide me with an unlimited supply of monsters- meaning Tengas, Putties and whatever else you have around here- to help me launch a full scale, all-out war against the Rangers with Princess Kamara as the grand prize, and I'll provide you with something that will help you get the earth."

"And that is?" Rita asked, curious. A small smile played across Zara's lips as she said, "The total annihilation of Zeo V."

"Ha!" Rita scoffed, "That's easier said than done, sweetheart! It's hard enough just injuring them with those damn power suits, let alone actually killing one of them!"

Zara's smile became chilling. "That's the gag, dear auntie. You see, I possess a special little power that can penetrate that pesky little suit of his and do some serious damage. I'm not going to give you all the juicy details. You'll just have to watch. The only problem is, once I use my power,I'm going to need at least two days sleep to recover from it. But it will be worth it to see him go down."

Zedd and Rita looked at one another for a moment. Then, Zedd said, "All right Zara, we'll supply you with what you need. But this plan of yours had better work!"

"Don't worry uncle, it works every time." She paused, then added: "I'm going to need some time to prepare. My power is... sleeping you might say, and I'll need to wake it up carefully."

"How long do you need?"

"Twenty four hours."

"Fine. Goldar! Start preparing squadrons of Tengas and Putties! And have Finster prepare a monster or two. We attack in twenty four hours!"

PART 5

It was well over an hour and a half later when Zordon signaled Billy that he could open the door. As soon as the door opened, a calmer, but still worried Tommy, rushed out and into the main chamber. A now fully conscious Jason was sitting up, looking around in confusion while Tanya helped an exhausted Katherine into a nearby chair. Kamara still lay on the table, her body glowing softly while she muttered words in a language none of them understood. Tommy hurried over and knelt next to Kat.

"Kat? You all right?" he asked anxiously.

"Yeah," Kat replied slowly, "Just really tired."

"Such is the price of your gift." They all looked over to see Kamara sitting up, watching them with Jason sitting beside her.

"Gift? What...?" Kat's voice trailed off as sleep overtook her.

"She'll sleep for a good hour or two," Kamara said, looking around. "Are you who I think you are?" When Jason nodded, she asked: "Has my search finally ended?"

"Yes, Princess," Zordon boomed, causing her to look up in surprise.

"Are you Zordon?" she asked, unfazed by the unusual situation she was facing.

"Yes. I am glad to see that you have survived all these centuries and have at last made it here."

Kamara smiled. "It wasn't easy. I've come across so many worlds similar to Earth. I was beginning to wonder if I would ever find the right one."

Her attention drifted back to Kat, who was sleeping soundly on a cot Tommy had placed her on. "I'm going to have to show her how to keep that power quiet. It's awfully distracting."

"Kamara, what are you talking about?" Tommy asked, "What power?"

"Well," Kamara answered slowly, "I'll explain what I can to you. This is all very strange and confusing to me to. Katherine has a power deep within her. When you all were trying to revive me with your energies, I was drawn specifically to hers. I think that when she put her hand on the star, a part of that power awakened and came to the surface. Like I said before, I was drawn to it. So, instead of using of your energies to help me revive quickly, I used hers. It took longer, but it felt right, somehow. She now shares a small part of the bond that Jason and I share. I'm not quite certain what what this power of hers will do, but I do know that part of it is healing."

She winced and put a hand to her head at the same time Jason did.

"Man, that hurts!" he grunted.

"What? What's going on?" Tanya asked. Kamara didn't answer. Instead, she went over and sat next to Kat. She put a hand on Kat's heart and closed her eyes as the star on her forehead and her hand began to glow. A frown passed over her pretty features, a moment later, and she opened her eyes to look at them.

"The power... it's upset," she said in a slightly perplexed voice. "It wants to be whole again and is trying to summon the rest of itself out of... I guess you would call it hibernation."

"Wait a minute," Rocky interjected, holding up his hands, "You're talking as though this power is alive or something."

Kamara hesitated, then said, "Well... in a way it sort of is."

Her statement was met with startled looks. "I'm feeling what may be a presence deep within her. But this power is in such an uproar and what I'm feeling is so deep down that I can't be sure." She winced again, a sharp pain only she and Jason could feel. "If there is a power in her," she added, "I'm not so sure we want it waking up and joining the rest of itself. There's something here, just on the edge, that's giving me a very uneasy feeling."

"So, how do we keep this power from 'waking up' whatever's there?" Rocky asked.

"I'll just have to subdue it a bit until I can show Kat how to do it on her own. Jason, could you help me?"

Jason came over and she took his hand, placing it over her own, then covering it with her other hand. Instinctively, Jason closed his eyes, and opened his mind to their power link. The silver glow beneath their hands brightened and became mixed with gold. The glow lasted several seconds, then subsided and winked out. The pair opened their eyes, relief evident in their expressions.

"That will keep it quiet until I can show her how to control it herself." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "I need some air. Anyone care to join me?"

The others declined, but Jason nodded and, taking her hand, teleported out in a flash of gold and silver light.

***
Jason and Kamara walked close, hand in hand, along the nearly deserted beach. Kamara stopped to watch the water, a far away look in her eyes.

"Thinking about home?" Jason asked softly, already knowing the answer.
"Among other things," she responded just as softly. She turned and looked up at him, her bright green eyes locking with his brown ones. Jason reached out and gently stroked her cheek with his fingers.

"Kara," he said huskily, "I.. I've never felt about anyone the way I feel about you. I hardly know you and yet, I feel as though I have all my life."

"I feel the same way, my love," she whispered. "I've never loved anyone as much as I love you."

They fell silent, staring into each other's eyes, their minds filling them with the love of the other. Their eyes closed and, as one, their lips met.

***
Zara sat in the center of a circle of candles, chanting in an ancient language as she prepared for the coming battle. She opened her eyes and waved a hand. An image of Tommy as the evil green ranger appeared. She smiled as she watched the replay of his deeds under Rita's spell.

"Such a waste," she whispered as the image faded and was replaced with one of Tommy fighting along side the other Rangers. "He was so great at being evil. To bad he's so unpredictable or I might be tempted to spare him and make him mine."

The image changed to show him as the White Ranger, then Zeo V. She frowned as she watched the image.

'Hmm, I can't continue with this until I fight him." She got up and left the chamber, making her way to the throne room.

"Uncle," she said as she entered, "I'm going down to Earth to engage the Rangers in battle. I'm going to need a few Tengas to get them out in the open."

"What? What happened to the twenty four hours you wanted?"

"Oh, I still want it. I just need to fight Tommy so I can add a little something special to my surprise."

"Very well. I'll send Goldar with you." Zara smiled, then left for Earth.

"Wow, she's amazing," Jason said softly to no one in particular. The others exchanged amused glances.

The group was sitting at a table in the Youth Center, watching Kat and Kamara as they went through a Tai chi movement. In actuality, Kamara was teaching Kat how to use, control, and subdue her power. They hadn't been doing it long when an all to familiar chiming reached their ears.

"Figures," Tommy muttered, standing and moving to a secluded corner. "This is Tommy, what's up?"

"Tommy," Billy's voice filtered through, "Goldar and some Tengas just appeared in the park."

"All right, we're on it."

"No, wait! The sensors are detecting another presence, but we're not sure who it is. Use extreme caution on this one. Something may be up."

"Right. Teleport Kamara to the Power Chamber would ya?"

"Right."

As Kamara vanished, Tommy called out, "It morphin time!"

"Zeo Ranger I Pink!"
"Zeo Ranger II yellow!"
"Zeo Ranger III Blue!"
"Zeo Ranger IV Green!"
"Zeo Ranger V Red!"
"Gold Ranger Power!"

Seconds later, the teens appeared to a crowd of panicked people being chased about by Tengas.

"Zeo II," Tommy said, mindful of the crowd, "you and Zeo III and IV get these people out of here. The rest of us will keep Goldar and the Tengas busy."

"Right!"

A strange sensation overcame Kat as she fought off a pair of Tengas. She knew there was someone else very close by and it was affecting her deeply. She dispatched the two, then activated her communicator.

"Billy, this is Kat. Can you get a fix on whoever that other presence is?"

"Yeah, hold on a second, I'm getting some readings now." Billy's voice replied. There was a short pause and then Billy spoke.

"Kat, It's Zara. Uh oh. She's about two hundred feet behind Tommy!"

Kat spun around and, sure enough, there was Zara, preparing for a sneak attack on Tommy.

"Oh no you don't!" Kat muttered, drawing her blaster and firing. She watched as the blasts hit Zara, who fell to the ground, surprised and stunned.

"How do you like being on the receiving end of a sneak attack Zara?" Kat asked as Zara picked herself up. Zara hissed and glared at her.

"I don't have time to play games with you my little kitten. I'm here for one thing and one thing only, and that doesn't involve you."

She released a bolt of energy that should have knocked Kat clear across the field.

"Katherine!" Tommy shouted, having seen the attack. He started forward, but stopped in surprise as the smoke from the blast cleared. Kat stood in the same spot she had been, seemingly unharmed.

"What?!" Zara exclaimed, her eyes widening slightly.

'Well now, isn't this an interesting little development.'

"Kat! You all right?" Tommy asked as he and the others joined her. Kat was looking at her hands and down at the rest of her body in confusion.

"I... Yeah, yeah I'm fine," she said, her voice shaky with surprise. Tommy looked from her to Zara and back again, then activated his communicator.

"Billy, teleport Kat back to the Power Chamber and check her over."

As Kat was teleported out Tommy turned to Zara and spoke.

"All right Zara, it's just you and us!"

Zara smiled. "Actually sugar, I was hoping it would be just you and me." Her ice blue eyes radiated coldness as she looked at him. "Do you Rangers accept one on one challenges?"

"Careful bro," Jason murmured. "She's up to something."

"Yeah," Tommy replied softly. "Be prepared, guys, just in case."

Raising his voice, he shouted, "All right Zara! You're on!"

The others moved a respectful distance away, but remained ready in case they were needed. The pair circled each other, each waiting for the other to make the first move. Finally, Zara lashed out and the fight was on.

'Hmm, he's very good,' Zara thought, 'Very strong, both physically and mentally. I'm going to need something extra special for this one.' An idea suddenly struck her. 'Let's see how good he is with a sword.'

She raised her hand skyward and an evil looking, black sword appeared in her hand. Tommy started as a pair of glowing, cat like eyes appeared on the hilt, just above where her hand gripped it. Recovering, Tommy quickly summoned his power sword and the two went at it once more.

'Well now, I think I have something here,' she thought, blocking a blow that caused her to stumble back several steps. 'Time to get out of here and put what I've learned to good use.'

She threw an energy bolt at the ground in front of him, stopping him from advancing further.

"Sorry to cut the game short sugar," she purred, "but I've got to run. Don't worry," she added with a chilling smile, "We'll be finishing this real soon."

She winked, then disappeared in a flash of black flame.

***
*Power Chamber

"I'm fine Billy, really," Kat repeated for what seemed to be the hundredth time since she'd been teleported back. She tried to sit up, but Billy gently but firmly pushed her back down onto the table.

"I'm sure you are Kat. But we need to be absolutely certain. I saw that that blow you took and by my calculations, it was strong enough to breech your suit. You should have been knocked out. Now just lie still and let me finish this."

As soon as he finished his sentence, five colored beams of light appeared, signaling the return of the others.

"How is she, Billy?" Tommy asked, removing his helmet.

"Irritated." Kat replied, earning a smile from Billy.

"Well," he said, "amazingly enough, she seems to be all right."

"That's what I've been telling you ever since I got here!" Kat said, her annoyance rising. Kamara was the only one who spotted the soft, pink glow forming around her clenched fists. She felt the other girl's agitation and dangerously rising surge of power. Evidently, so did Jason, for he was looking at Kamara in alarm.

"Katherine, calm down," she said firmly, going over to her. "Your power level is getting dangerously high."

Their eyes met, and Kamara suppressed a gasp. "Move away!" she ordered the others sharply. Kat's eyes had taken on a wild look and her breathing had become heavy. Kamara put a hand on Kat's forehead and closed her eyes, searching Kat's mind. "Her power is reacting to Zara's energy," she reported, "She must let it out, quickly! Jason, help me get her to her feet. Billy, teleport us somewhere deserted, where it won't matter if something gets blown up."

Billy nodded, and when she and Jason had Kat on her feet, teleported them out. The others watched in the viewing globe as the threesome appeared in the quarry. Kamara and Jason left Kat standing on her own and ran behind some boulders for cover. Kat's body crackled with energy and, as they watched, lightning struck the ground all around her. She raised her hands to the sky and her head snapped back as the lightning struck her. One hand flew down in front of her and the other off to the side. In unison, crackling pink energy flew from her hands, causing to earth shattering explosions as they collided with the rocks.

The energy flow finally stopped and Kat collapsed to her knees. Kamara and Jason ran over and knelt next to her. Jason's voice then echoed through the Power Chamber.

"Billy, Teleport us back."

When the threesome reappeared, Kat was clinging to Kamara, shaking badly.

"Shh, it's all right, it's all right," she whispered soothingly. She looked up at Tommy, who came over and knelt down on Kat's other side. He put a hand on her shoulder and she looked over at him with frightened, confused eyes. She reached out, and he gathered her in his arms, picked her up and laid her back down on the examining table.

"Sleep now," Kamara whispered, placing a glowing hand on the distraught girl's forehead. Kat sighed as her eyes closed, and she fell into a deep sleep.

"Wow, that was something else," Kamara, letting her breath out in a rush.

"Kamara, what in the world is going on here?" Tommy asked.

"You do know, don't you?" Adam added hopefully.

Kamara nodded. "Yes. I've seen this happen several times before, but I never thought I'd see Zara involved in one!" She paused, collecting her thoughts. She looked each teen in the eye before saying, "Katherine's power has made her immune to Zara. That little exchange between them set it off, and that little episode just now sort of... well sealed the bargain. Once she wakes up, she'll be completely immune to most of Zara's power. There will be parts of Zara's power that she won't be immune to but, depending on the strength of the blow, it shouldn't hurt her to much."

"Will she have another surge like that?" Tanya asked. Kamara shook her head.

"Luckily, no. That was just the power's way of adjusting. But I'd keep an eye on her just the same. These things can be unpredictable at times."

She paused, then added, "Now we just have to worry about how Zara's going to react to this."

***
Zara once again sat in the middle of the circle of candles, eyes closed. It had been several hours since the battle where she had discovered two things. One; she now had the perfect way of using her power to dispatch Tommy, and two; Katherine was immune to her. She now had a very serious, very shocking hunch about the Pink Ranger, but she'd have to deal with that later. Right now, she had to finish the last stage of her preparation.

Her eyes snapped open, and when she spoke, her voice echoed eerily around the chamber.

"Forces of evil, mother of darkness, hear me!"

She stood and held a container up in the air.

"Provide me, your daughter, with your poisoned blood!"

She closed her eyes, feeling the forces she had called upon stir and begin to work their evil magic. She opened her eyes, looked in the container, and smiled. It was full of a black, bubbling liquid. She took it and placed it on a table next to her sword. She once again closed her eyes and this time, went deep into her soul, searching for the certain power she knew was there. She found it and took a firm hold. She put a finger in the liquid, then carefully began releasing the power.

'Careful, not too much at once,' she told herself. 'Easy, concentrate. Just about there... now! Stop!'

She pulled her finger from the liquid and cut the power. She shuddered as she released her grip, allowing the power to return to the deepest depths of her soul. Zara opened her eyes and looked at the liquid again. It had turned a sinister blood red. She laughed to herself as she watched it slowly turn back to black.

She picked the container up, put the sword in it's place, and carefully poured the liquid over the blade. A small flame flared up then died and the blade turned red, then black, then back to it's dark, silvery color. A smile of pure evil played across her lips as she took hold of the sword and raised it to eye level.

"Watch out Red Ranger," she purred. "Your hours are numbered."

PART 6

Kamara stood, breathing in the crisp, morning air and staring out at the horizon, uneasy feelings coursing through her veins. A small smile crossed her lips as she suddenly felt Jason's mind behind her.

'Good morning Jason,' she thought, her eyes still on the horizon.

"Kara," Jason gently chided, slipping his arm around her shoulders, "what are you doing out alone? You know Zordon told you not to leave the Power Chamber without at least one of us with you."

Kamara smiled at his protectiveness. "I've lasted this long, Jason. I think I can survive a morning walk. Besides, if I ran into trouble I couldn't handle, you'd know."

They were silent for a moment, then Kamara asked, "Jason?"

"Yeah?" "Are... are you getting any bad feelings?"

"Just what I'm picking up from you. What's wrong?"

"I don't know," she answered slowly. She turned and looked at him. "Ever since I woke up this morning, I've had this intensely bad feeling that something is going to happen. It's not just a feeling in my mind either. It's in the air. The whole... atmosphere is so... tense." She glanced around. "Hell, even nature knows something's wrong!"

"Hey, relax," Jason said, putting a hand on her cheek.

"I can't relax Jason. Something's going to happen today. Something bad. And it's scaring me."

"Hey," Jason said softly, "don't be scared. I'm not going to let anything happen to you. I promise."

"It's not me I'm worried about," she whispered.

***
Billy checked his watch. It was nearly noon. The others would be waiting for him at the Youth Center so they could eat lunch together, then catch a movie. He crawled out from under the computer council he'd been working on and stood.

"Hey Alpha, I'm going to take off now. I'll be back...."

He was abruptly cut off by the wail of the alarm. He looked in the viewing globe and his eyes widened slightly.

"Oh man," he murmured softly. He quickly pushed a button and spoke.

"Tommy, this is Billy, come in."

"Billy, I read you. What's up?"

"Trouble. Big trouble. Zara and the biggest army of Tengas and Putties I've ever seen have just appeared in the park. You'd better get over there fast. I'll teleport Kamara here right away."

He pushed another button and Kamara appeared seconds later. Together, the pair looked in the viewing globe and found the rangers already on the scene, confronting Zara.

***
"What's the matter Rangers?" Zara called, "Afraid to let Kamara out to play?"

"Quite the opposite Zara!" Tommy retorted, "she just has better things to do than waste her time with you!"

"Well then," Zara returned with a smile, "Let's get this party started shall we? Putties! Tengas! Attack!"

The two groups rushed forward to meet each other, and the battle began. Tommy fought his way through to where Zara was standing, watching the fight, and shouted, "Hey Zara! In case you've forgotten, we have some unfinished business to take care of!"

Zara smiled and dropped to a fighting Stance. "Oh, I haven't forgotten, sugar. In fact, I've been looking forward to it."

She lashed out with a fierce blow that Tommy ducked, then retaliated with one of his own. After several moments of trading blows, Zara decided to step things up a bit. There was a flash of light around her hands, and cat like claws appeared. Grinning, she swiped at him, connecting with his chest. Tommy gasped and pressed a hand to the spot she had connected with, stumbling back a few steps.

'Damn!' he thought, looking down at the blood on his glove and then at the tears in his uniform, 'her claws cut right through my suit like it was cheese! Have to watch out for them.'

He took a quick glance around to see how the others were doing, and found it wasn't well. In addition to the seemingly endless flow of Putties and Tengas, a monster had also joined the fight. He also spotted Zedd and Rita standing not to far away, watching the Battle with unsurpassed glee.

'Damn!' "Billy!" he exclaimed into his communicator while avoiding Zara's claws at the same time, "we're getting swamped down here! If you've got any new tricks, now would be the time a good time to share!"

He grunted as the claws raked across his left arm.

"All right, that's it!" he muttered, pulling out his blaster....

***
"Zordon, let me join them," Kamara said, turning from the viewing globe and looking up at the interdimensional being. "It's far too much for them to handle alone."

Zordon looked hesitant, so Billy spoke up.

"She's right Zordon. It's probably not a good idea to pull them out of battle with the numbers as great as they are, and her power easily equals that of two or more rangers. She'd be of great help."

Zordon considered his words, then nodded. "Very well, but use caution, Kamara. This may be a ploy to get you out in the open."

Kamara nodded, bowing her head in acknowledgment and respect. Raising her head, she called out, "I call upon the powers of Silver Star!"

Once she was changed, Billy Teleported her to the battle field. Looking around, she spotted Tanya and Adam rapidly being over powered and decided to help them first. She raised a hand to the sky and a sudden, fierce wind blew up as she called upon her power.

"Silver lightning!" she shouted at the same time a bolt of silver, jagged lightning entered her hand. She brought her hand down, aiming at the group swarming over her two friends and shouted, "Strike!"

Faster than the eye could follow, the lightning flew from her hand and struck the attackers, who exploded, leaving behind a mess of putty and feathers. Surprised, Adam and Tanya looked around, spotted her, and ran over.

"Hey thanks," Adam said, "I thought we'd never get out of that."

"Hey!" Rocky shouted from where he was taking on five Tengas and a Putty, "I could really use some help here!"

Silver Star looked over at Rocky, then over to where Jason and Kat were struggling with an ugly, gargoyle like monster.

"I'll help them, you two help Rocky," she said, already running toward the Pink and Gold Rangers. She threw a bolt of energy at the monster, knocking it out of the way, and joined them.

"Take my hand!" she ordered. "Jason, use your power staff and gather as much energy as you can until I say."

She looked at the monster, was watching them stupidly. Her eyes began to glow a bright silver, and when she spoke, her voice echoed in the wind.

"Powers of silver, powers of pink, and powers of gold! Unite and strike!"

She gripped the power her friends had summoned and drew it into herself. The star on her forehead flared, and a beam of silver, pink and gold energy flew out, striking the monster head on. With a scream, the monster disintegrated.

"Wow, what a rush!" Kat exclaimed breathlessly as she regained control and subdued her power.

"Yeah, we could've used you a long time ago," Jason added. Silver Star smiled.

"Glad to help. Now, let's go help the others finish off these freaks!"

***
Zara grunted as she landed hard on her back, but quickly recovered and got to her feet.

"All right sugar!" she growled, "Enough games! I've got a little surprise for you."

She raised her hand and summoned her sword. Tommy summoned his own sword and the pair crossed blades. For several moments the fighters traded sword blows. Then Zara looked up and noticed with a start a serious decline in her army's numbers. She then spotted Silver Star and realized that she had better finish fast.

She looked back at Tommy and noticed that he was considerably weaker from the loss of blood from the injuries she had given him. She smiled and gave in to the irresistible, natural urge to play with her prey.

She lashed out with amazing speed, catching him several times. She smiled again when she saw his sluggish movements and the blood seeping through his uniform. Her next blow knocked him to the ground, stunning him. She knelt next to him, running her finger through the slow flow of blood. Her eyes flashed as she put her finger in her mouth, reveling in the taste of her prey's blood.

"Shall we finish this?" she asked, standing and moving away so he could get up. He climbed clumsily to his feet, and they crossed swords for a few more minutes until Zara had him in the state she wanted him.

'It's time,' she thought. She closed her eyes and went deep inside her body, searching for the spot she had left her power. Finding it, she brought it to the surface and released it full force. Lightning flashed and thunder crashed as she was surrounded by a sinister, crackling energy.

The blade was engulfed in a reddish black flame and she poured her power into it. Tommy, dazed, confused, and injured, had dropped his sword and was attempting to back away. Zara looked at him, an unholy light burning in her eyes.

"So long, sugar!" she shouted, then plunged the sword deep into his chest.

***
Jason dispatched two Tengas and was about to move onto another when a terrifying, pain filled scream split the air. He looked over and his heart nearly stopped when he saw Tommy, lying motionless on the ground. Zara stood over him, pulling her blood stained sword from his chest.

"Tommy! NOOO!" Jason screamed, running toward his friend. Zara looked up at him, shot him a chilling grin, staggered, then disappeared.

***
"Tommy! NOOO!"

Kat stopped firing her blaster at the sound of Jason's terrified scream. She looked around and spotted him running toward.... Her face paled under her helmet.

"Tommy, no!" she whispered. As the remaining Tengas and Putties vanished, the teens ran to their fallen leader.

"Billy! Get us back to the Chamber fast!" Jason shouted into his communicator. Their world vanished in a flash of light and seconds later, the were back in the Power Chamber, Tommy laying on the medical table, de-morphed.

Kat choked back a sob when she saw Tommy's blood stained, battered body. Blood flowed freely from several, nasty wounds that showed through his bloody, shredded shirt. Kamara rushed over and put a hand on Tommy's forehead, then his chest. She shuddered as his warm blood seeped onto her hand, but kept it there as she scanned him with her mind.

"There's a dark force within him," she whispered. "Ugh!"

Jason grabbed his head as Kamara gasped and jumped back, as if she had been shocked.

"Quickly, take him to another chamber," she said urgently, "he doesn't have much time left."

Billy nodded. "Alpha, take him to chamber 2. I'll make preparations from here." Alpha nodded, and quickly wheeled Tommy from the main chamber, Kat and Jason following.

"Billy, can you lock the chamber so that no one else can gain access?"

Billy nodded. "Sure. I can program it so that only you, me, and Zordon can open it."

"Good. Do that. It's extremely important that nobody enters that chamber, no matter what you hear." She paused, then added, "Oh, one more thing." She held out a hand and a glass filled with a silverish liquid appeared. "Give this to Jason. Tell him it will help his wounds."

"What is it really?" Billy asked, taking the glass and examining the contents curiously.

"A mild sedative. It's better that he's not conscious while I'm with Tommy." Turning, she left for chamber 2.

***
"Tommy?"

Jason and Kat hovered over their friend anxiously as the other boy moaned and slowly opened his eyes. He stared at them with a vacant expression.

"Tommy?" Jason whispered, "Can you hear me?"

Tommy appeared to struggle to focus, then said in a soft whisper, "Jason?"

"Yeah bro." Jason bent down closer so he could hear his friend.

"I... I don't think.. I'm going to... to make it."

"Don't say that bro. You're going to make it. You're not going to die. I won't let you!" Jason said forcefully, tears in his eyes. Tommy drew in a ragged breath, then coughed, causing blood to trickle from the corners of his mouth.

"J... Jase... listen. I want you... to take... over command. You have the.... most experience." He squeezed his eyes shut and gritted his teeth as pain flew through his body. Tears streaming slowly down her face, Kat reached out and gently touched his chest, releasing a small flow of energy. Tommy relaxed slightly and looked at them again, his eyes pleading.

"Please Jase... take command for me."

Jason nodded and took his best friend's hand. "All right bro. I'll take command. But just until you get better."

He looked up as the door slid open and Kamara quietly entered. Jason nodded at the unspoken request that passed between them, then looked back down at Tommy. His oldest, dearest friend had once more slipped back into unconscious.

"Hang in there bro," he whispered, "you're not going anywhere yet."

Turning, he put his arm around Kat's shoulders, and led her from the room. In the main chamber, Billy came up to Jason and handed him a glass of something.

"Here, drink this. It'll help with your wounds."

"Thanks," Jason mumbled distractedly, taking a big gulp of the liquid.

"Zordon?" Kat spoke up softly, "What are the chances of Tommy surviving?"

"I do not know, Katherine," Zordon replied quietly, "Much of his life force is already gone. All we can do is hope and pray that Kamara and her remarkable healing abilities will be enough to save him."

They all jumped at the sound of a glass shattering. Turning, they found Jason swaying unsteadily on his feet, staring down at the broken glass in confusion.

"B... Billy," he stammered, clutching Billy's shoulder as the other boy appeared next to him, "what was that stuff?"

"Just a mild sedative," Billy replied casually, supporting Jason on one side as Rocky appeared on the other.

"Sedative? What....?" Alarm ran through him and he began struggling.

"Whoa, Jase, calm down. It's all right. Just lie here and have a nice, long nap," Billy said soothingly as Jason ceased to struggle and lay down on the table.

Once Jason had drifted off to sleep, Billy turned and wasn't surprised to see the others looking at him with stunned expressions.

"Billy, why'd you give Jason a sedative?" Tanya asked.

"It wasn't my idea," Billy replied, "It was Kara's. She said it would be better if he wasn't conscious while she was in with Tommy."

"He's not going to be to happy when he wakes up," Rocky said.

"He probably won't even remember falling asleep," Billy replied. "I'm guessing that sedative was of Silvermistian origin, which means it'll have a different effect on humans."

"I wonder why she thought it would be better that way?" Adam wondered out loud. A few seconds later, the screams began, and he had his answer.

***
Zara appeared in the throne room moments after Zedd and Rita. She smiled weakly as she struggled to stay standing.

"Well, Uncle... Auntie. Are you impressed?"

"Are you kidding!?" Rita screeched. "I can't believe you just managed to pull off the impossible! Tommy is finally gone for good!" She erupted into a fit of evil laughter.

"He's not dead yet, but he's close," Zara laughed as she added.

"The drainage I've suffered will be well worth it when the remaining Rangers fall and I'm on my way home with the mouse!"

She was still chuckling softly when she suddenly slipped to the floor, and remained still.

"Is she dead, Zeddie?" Rita asked with a slight hint of concern as Zedd knelt next to his niece. Zedd shook his head.

"No, it's merely the exhaustion she mentioned earlier settling in." He rose to his feet and shouted, "Goldar!"

Goldar appeared in the door, his fur matted with dried blood from the wounds he had received in battle. He looked down at the girl, then up at his master.

"Yes, my lord?" he growled. "Take Zara back to her chambers and put her to bed," Zedd ordered, "And place a guard outside to ensure she's not disturbed."

"Yes, my lord." Goldar gently gathered Zara up in his massive arms and left the room.

"Well, Zeddie, what's our next move?" Rita asked, studding her nails.

"We need to find out how many of our forces are left. We may need Finster to make more. Then we shall continue our attacks while we have the advantage."

Zedd began laughing maniacally, and Rita soon joined in.

PART 7

Rocky nervously paced the floor of the Power Chamber, trying to block out the agonizing screams that floated in from the other chamber. It had been over four and a half hours since Kamara had disappeared into the chamber with Tommy. They had all left at one point or another, but had always ended up coming back, no matter how hard they tried to stay away.

Jason was still asleep on the table, with Adam sitting next to him, watching him with a blank expression. Billy had taken refuge under one of the consuls, fixing and making on it. Kat was sitting in a dark corner, sobbing quietly, a trick she had learned during the weaker moments under Rita's spell. Tanya sat with her, trying her hardest to comfort her best friend.

"Hey," Rocky said suddenly, stopping, "Listen. The screaming's stopped."

The others all looked up, listening. Sure enough, all was silent. Billy climbed out from under the council and approached the door to chamber 2 as it silently slid open. Billy was ready when Kamara stumbled out and collapsed.