Disclaimer: The author of this document would like to clarify that Power Rangers and its characters is owned by Saban Brands and not the author.
-o-
Undisclosed Tower
Four And A Half Years Ago
She gazed out the shattered window of the city skyline in front of her.
She ignored the lines of red that stained the floor or the crimson liquid that dripped from the cracks.
She took a step or two towards the edge. Just enough to be able to see the commotion below her.
She saw the body of the man who had murdered her parents splayed in the concrete of the street below.
His head… not that far off…
She noticed a few onlookers gazing upwards. She couldn’t tell if they were looking at her or if they even noticed her. She knew she wouldn’t be up here alone. It was only a matter of time before someone showed up.
It didn’t matter. She did what she needed to do.
She avenged her parents’ deaths.
She slayed their murderer.
The quest for vengeance that had been her life mission had come to an end.
But it was not the end of her story…
-o-
Angel Grove Tavern
Present Day
Gillian had come to Angel Grove for reasons that escaped her.
She didn’t know anyone here. Nobody told her to come here. There was no inclination for here to even be here… except for a feeling that she had that compelled her to come. What that feeling was… she couldn’t even begin to fathom. The only thing that she knew was that whatever reason she had for coming to this town must have something to do with the coin that was dangling on a thin cord around her neck.
This strange coin that had been gifted… bestowed upon her? Thrusted on her? This relic that she had gotten from a mysterious woman claiming to be an alien warrior from another world. A relic with strange powers that she had only begun to discover. Something that felt both completely alien and yet almost second nature to her at the same time. A damning contradiction if there ever was one.
She arrived into town just a few days ago, drifting around the city for a bit before renting a small room at a local inn. She had heard rumblings of battles between Rangers and monsters a couple times, but didn’t think much of them. But it was a trip to a tavern for a cup of coffee and a conversation with the barkeep, who brought her up to speed on Angel Grove’s particular penchant for attracting evil space aliens and their constant attacks on the city thwarted by these Rangers.
Another time and another place would have her dismiss these as tall tales and folklore, stuff too outlandish to be believed… but then there was the strange coin that she wore on a necklace and the circumstances upon which she was granted this relic. This, on top of the things that she had witnessed in her travels, seeing a side of this world that no common folk would (or should) ever be able to fully grasp. So, yes, she decided, she would believe that this Anthony fellow – nice guy, very honest – is telling the truth about space aliens, superheroes, and giant robot dinosaurs. It’s not like she hasn’t had her share of weird.
And then… they appeared.
Standing just before the front door – much to the surprise and awe of (most of) the people in the tavern – were the very heroes of this city that Anthony had been talking about. The protectors of this planet that had been the stuff of legends and conversation for the past two years. The masked guardians of all that is decent and pure. But most of all, they were possessors of a great power that enabled them to be the storied champions against the forces of darkness. She only allowed herself a quick glance before taking another sip of coffee, but Gillian couldn’t help but be impressed just a tiny bit. These individuals exuded an aura of authority and humble nobility that people admired and respected. They held power, but didn’t flaunt it. They use it to help others.
Even so, she didn’t flinch when they appeared. Even through their opaque visors, she could feel them staring her down. She shot a quick glance at Anthony, who got the hint and slowly backed away. She couldn’t help but notice his face; there was a hint of fear in his eyes, that something might happen in his little tavern. A place that had been fairly calm for the most part. Maybe a bar fight or two, but nothing too egregious, especially after the city-wide alcohol ban. But there was also a hint of a grin that Anthony tried to hold back. Sure, he was afraid something bad was going to happen and it was going to cost him a pretty penny… but never in his wildest dreams did expect anything to involve the gosh-darned Power Rangers of all people.
A minute of silence had passed since the Rangers appeared and yet Gillian didn’t flinch. Her attention focused on the still warm cup of coffee that was in front of her. She knew they were here for her… or rather, for the coin around her neck. She felt them staring, but not make a move. What did they want? What were they waiting for? Or maybe they’re wondering the same thing. Who’s this girl? Where’d she get that coin? What’s her game? She glanced at the clock on top; only two minutes since they showed up.
Feels like ages.
She heard the light taps of footsteps on the ground. They were slowly approaching her, cautiously. She continued to stare at and sip away her remaining coffee. She was positioned in a way where the Rangers couldn’t get a good look at her face.
Not that it mattered, she thought. I know why they’re here.
“So you’re the so-called ‘Power Rangers’ that I keep hearing about, huh?” declared Gillian without diverting her attention away from the near-empty mug. “Not all that impressed, if I’m being honest.”
The Rangers looked among themselves as this girl addressed them, not believing the tone and tact that she was pulling on them.
“That’s right,” White Ranger replied as he would to any other threat. “And whatever you’re up, we’re here to stop you!”
Gillian’s head tilted slightly, pausing her sips of coffee as she took in what she just heard. The voice threw her off. Not that she recognized the voice or anything, but just that… it suddenly dawned on her.
Kids, she realized. They’re just kids. Not much younger than me.
She couldn’t help but smile at the thought and slowly turned to face her accusers. “Stop me from doing what, exactly?”
The Rangers grumbled in bewilderment. They weren’t sure how to answer that. All they did was watch as Gillian drank in the last bit of coffee in her cup before setting it aside.
“If you were going to stop me from finishing that cup of coffee,” she said wryly, “Then you’re too late. That cup is done. My plan is a success.” Her tone grew dark. “Now would you like to tell me why you’re pestering me?”
“Why don’t you tell us what Rita and Zedd are up to?”
Gillian raised an eyebrow. “Who the hell are Rita and Zedd?”
Before any of the Rangers could answer, Anthony spoke out. “Rita’s the evil space witch and Zedd is her alien husband who lives on the moon. Wants to take over the world, sends monsters to destroy the Rangers,” He pointed at the Rangers as he spoke. “But that ends up never happening.”
Gillian looked at Anthony incredulously, then glanced at the Rangers for what seemed like an eternity before turning back to Anthony. “Can I have more coffee please?”
The Rangers watched as the bartender, with a genuinely comfortable smile, quickly swiped the mug to the sink and produced another clean coffee mug. They watched as he began to pour the freshly-brewed coffee into the mug, added a slip of sugar, and placed the mug on the bar. The entire time they watched this scene, they were almost amazed that the bartender was all smiles and showing no signs of being under duress. They then turned their attention to Gillian as she took a quick sip from the mug before turning to face the Rangers.
“Are you just going to stand there or are you going to order something?” she asked, a hint of humor in her voice. “I know that’s a bit hard with the helmets and you’re trying to maintain some anonymity, but you’ve got to have better things to do than harass every out-of-towner that pops in.”
Tommy grimaced in response, thankful that his helmet was hiding an ever reddening face of embarrassment. He found himself amazed that he was lost for words and couldn’t figure out why. Did he really open himself up to this girl’s quips that struck a nerve? He was doubly thankful when Billy stepped up to address this stranger who possessed the coin.
“Do you know anything about the coin in your possession?”
Gillian’s smile faded, her face drained of all emotion. She didn’t answer, but her demeanor told the story. She absent-mindedly dangled with the coin in her fingers before she uttered two words.
“Do you?”
Now the Black Ranger took a step forward. “We have reason to believe that you’re in possession of the eighth power coin.”
“Eighth coin?” the girl repeated. “What do you mean eighth?”
“So, there are eight coins,” Black Ranger replied, “We have six of those coins, the seventh is lost in the past, and then there’s your coin, which is the eighth.” He then just noticed the (masked) surprised stares of his teammates. “What? She asked. I replied.”
Gillian nodded. “Thanks. That helps a lot.” Then in a lower voice, added, “Not really, but thanks anyway.”
Sensing genuine appreciation in her thanks, Adam returned the nod and was about to say something before Tommy pushed him aside, marched in front of Gillian, and broke into a stance.
“Hand it over, then!” he commanded, a hint of authority dominating his tone. “It doesn’t belong to you!”
Gillian stared at the White Ranger incredulously. “You’re joking?”
The Ranger’s stiffening posture convinced her otherwise. Gillian let out an annoyed sigh.
Go easy. They’re just kids.
Gillian slowly got up from her chair and pushed the stool away, keeping her gaze towards the cup of coffee on the bar. As soon as she heard a crease on the ground, she immediately thrusted her right foot into the White Ranger’s chest, pushing him back. The others rushed towards the leader to check on him, who slowly got back on his feet. The White Ranger tried again and dashed at Gillian, but Gillian simply backhanded him on the side of the head, causing the Ranger to tumble over and crash through a nearby table. The table shattered on impact and White Ranger hit the floor hard, half-buried in wood and debris. The other Rangers started forward, but stopped when Gillian raised a finger and pointed towards their fallen leader. Neither side made a move for a solid minute.
“I’ve had this coin longer than you people have been jumping around in spandex.” Her words were calm yet blunt. “I was entrusted with this coin to guard it with my life. I’m not about to betray that trust for your sake.”
Gillian looked at the one table that was destroyed and sighed. She half-stood on one leg and reached for something in her pocket. Believing that she might be pulling out a weapon, the remaining Rangers summoned their own Power Weapons and went into their standard poses. To their amazement and disbelief, Gillian did not pull out a weapon, but rather a sizable summon of hundred dollar bills. She rolled several bills and wrapped a rubber band around it and handed it over Anthony.
“Sorry about the mess,” she said, “Trouble seems to follow me wherever I go.”
Anthony shrugged as he took the bills. He removed the band, pulled out the one single five-dollar bill among the pile of hundreds, and pushed the rest towards Gillian.
“Forget it, kid,” the barkeep quipped. “Tables are a dime and dozen. Not every day I can say the Power Rangers had a bar fight in my tavern.” His grin grew wide with glee. “Now THAT is something I will cherish for the rest of my days.”
As Anthony blissfully made his way to the back door, Gillian finally stood from her stool and walked towards the exit, pushing the various Rangers aside. Before she went any further, she stopped and took a quick stroll towards the White Ranger, who was still lying on his back with pieces of table over him. She dropped to one knee and slowly moved closer to the fallen Ranger’s head, whispering in his ear.
“I want you to understand something, Thomas Oliver; I’m not here to cause any trouble.” Her voice was quiet enough not to be overheard, but enough for the Ranger to hear. “Don’t ask me how I know what I know because I don’t know how. All I know is that if you and your friends leave me alone, I’ll be gone soon enough and we can all move on with our lives. But the next time you piss me off…”
Whatever effect her words had on the fallen Ranger went unnoticed by her as she slowly stood and face the Rangers, who spread out to give her room to walk to the exit. She slowly walked by them, giving each one passing glares before walking out the door. She heard them rushing towards their friend, but didn’t look back. She just continued her walk down the street and take the next turn around the corner. She dangled the coin for a bit as she walked.
“What are you worth, little thing?” she asked no one in particular. “What’s your story?”
Gillian slowly stood and pushed the Rangers aside to walk out the door. As White Ranger slowly regained his bearings (and his composure) to slowly get to his feet, Red Ranger quickly made a dash out the door to chase after Gillian. But when he stepped out of the tavern, the streets were empty. He had a quick glance around the street just as the other Rangers joined him, but there was no sign of the girl.
No sign of the Eighth Coin.
“Gone,” he said, “Like she was never here.”
-o-
From the balcony of his lunar command chamber, Lord Zedd had witnessed the events that had occurred. He had gotten a good look at the human female who took down the White Ranger with a single blow. There was almost a glint in Zedd’s masked eye as he saw this mere slip of a girl easily take down someone that none of his forces were able to suppress… but then he had gotten a close look at the coin around her neck. Red energy was practically bleeding from his vision beam and when he turned away, his visor continued to bleed energy. Goldar had never seen Zedd like this before, possibly because he had never seen Zedd this anxious.
Zedd stomped towards the winged titan, his body glowing red brighter than before. “Goldar, I want that accursed coin. And I want it NOW!”
Goldar trembled as Zedd stormed out of the chamber of command. He had been accustomed to Zedd in anger, but he hadn’t expected Zedd to lash out the way he did. It took a moment for Goldar to regain his composure and stared at the emerald planet outside the balcony of the palace. Letting out a silent growl, Goldar shook his head lightly.
-o-
“Are you sure you’re okay, Tommy?”
Kimberly’s question stung Tommy harder than the bruise on his back. He only let out an affirmative grunt in response, but clearly it wasn’t his back that suffered the most damage. The teens had reconvened at their usual table at the Youth Center, trying to enjoy the newest fruitshake concoction that Ernie had them sample… on the house, of course. The drinks, of course, were great, but their attention drifted to what Billy referred to as a “disastrous” first encounter with the bearer of the coin that Zordon presumed to be the missing eighth coin.
After what seemed like an eternity, it was Billy who broke the silence by addressing Tommy. “I’m afraid that you’ve been a bit presumptuous in assuming that this girl we’ve never met would be working for Rita and Zedd.”
“Yeah, I think you’ve jumped the gun,” added Kim. “We don’t know anything about this person who’s just enjoying her coffee and then we show up and start harassing her.”
Rocky grunted as he took a sip of the smooth. “I hate to say it, Tommy, but maybe you could have handled that better.”
Tommy shook his head. “I’m still wrapping my head around it. Maybe it’s just past experience, but the minute that someone shows up with a new coin, chances are they’re on the wrong side of things.”
“If I recall correctly, the last time that happened he was under a spell,” Billy mused, “But things worked out alright.”
Aisha raised a finger. “But that’s the thing. She doesn’t look like the kind of person who’s under a typical spell. If anything, I think she genuinely doesn’t care what happens.”
Tommy stiffened a bit. “Could be a cover story. For all we know, she could willingly be an agent of evil. Zordon told us to be careful with this girl. She’s capable of anything.”
“He also told us not to provoke her, Tommy,” Kim stated bluntly, “And bullying her to give away the coin was a little harsh.”
Tommy stammered. “Yeah, but-”
“To be fair, she seemed sincere in her ignorance of Lord Zedd,” Billy added, “Which eliminates the possibility that she could be one of his minions.”
“Not to mention she hasn’t done anything remotely evil outside of knocking you through a table,” Adam concurred, “And she did pay for the damage caused by our little intervention.”
Tommy slumped further down on his chair. It was clear that he wasn’t going to win this argument. And in hindsight, his attitude towards the coinbearer probably instigated her reaction more than anything. But as he was about to take another sip of juice, he froze for a moment, his mind wandering back to that encounter, back to the words whispered by the girl in his ear.
“I want you to understand something, Thomas Oliver; I’m not here to cause any trouble. Don’t ask me how I know what I know because I don’t know how. All I know is that if you and your friends leave me alone, I’ll be gone soon enough and we can all move on with our lives. But the next time you piss me off…”
It didn’t register to him at the time because he was still dazed from being tossed through a table, but his mind went back to that moment and that one piece of business that he had almost overlooked. The moment of realization made him gasp, which didn’t go unnoticed by his friends.
“She knows who we are.”
Kim’s eyebrow raised. “What?”
“She used my name,” he repeated. “She knows who we are.”
“How’s that possible?” Aisha asked, the shock evident in her tone of voice.
Tommy shook his head. “I don’t know. She says she even doesn’t know how.”
“Is it possible she might have gained this knowledge from the coin?” Billy surmised, drawing looks from the Rangers. “It’s a possibility. These coins were created in conjunction. There must be some kind of link between them that allows spacial knowledge to be shared through some means that is completely foreign to us.”
“But we didn’t know who the Green Ranger was when he first appeared,” Kim added. “We didn’t find out until much later.”
Tommy nodded. “Rita told me who you guys were when she brought me in.”
“I understand that,” said Billy, a hint of frustration in his voice. “But Zordon said that this coin operates on a different wavelength that even he’s unfamiliar with. Our morphers prevent us from using the coins for more than access to the grid.”
Kim’s mouth dropped. “And she doesn’t have that problem.”
“She can’t morph,” Tommy stated grimly. “But there’s no stopping her from using the coin past that.”
“Precisely,” confirmed Billy. “We may be dealing with a wild card beyond our ability to control. And I have to believe we’re not the only ones who know this.”
Adam frowned. “This can’t be good news.”
Before another word could spoke, the familiar tone chimed from the communicators. Almost instinctively, the six Rangers got up from their table and went to their hiding place in the Youth Center, checking to see if anyone was around before teleporting. However, for the first time in a while, their spot was filled with people occupying their lockers, prompting Tommy to mouth a profanity without actually saying it.
“You know, I could be wrong,” Adam said, “But I think this is the first time this ever happened to us.”
“Well, it is a locker room,” added Aisha, almost sounding amused. “It was bound to happen.”
“We’ll have to find another way out,” Tommy said, almost dejectedly. “Let’s go.”
The Rangers turned away from the locals and walked out of the Youth Center through the main exit. They rushed to a spot behind the building, which seemed to be devoid of life. After confirming that the coast was clear, Tommy raised his wrist communicator before him. Before he could respond, a brief yet powerful quake caught the Rangers off-guard. From the distance, they could see massive explosions of buildings being destroyed. Emerging from the massive layers of smoke was a familiar giant in gold armor.
“Goldar,” Tommy spat, clutching his fists together. “Just what we don’t need.”
“This is the third time today!” Rocky observed, “What’s going on here all of a sudden?”
“R–ge-s,” Alpha’s voice sizzled through the communicators, “Gol-o-‘s on the lo-se.”
Billy tried to adjust his communicator a bit, but to no avail. “The communication signal’s being jammed – possibly due to the interference I just mentioned – but I don’t think teleportation is being affected.”
“That can’t be too good,” observed Kim, “What else could go wrong?”
“We’ll worry about that later,” Tommy nodded, “Right now, let’s get to the Command Center and find out what’s going on…”
To be continued…
