Prologue

The vacuum of space without the protective armor was something she'd never felt before. It wasn't too different than being hit by an explosion and thrown into the ocean and mummified for 65 million years, but it wasn't the same either. At first the cold hit her almost instantly before she froze, and her ears popped painfully and then silence. She was unmoving and couldn't focus on where she floated; she was unable to see anything but blurred light from the sun. She couldn't feel anything either but, most importantly, she could no longer feel the warmth of the green power coin.

Oh, the coin, how she missed its warmth; its power. Now she felt empty as if something was ripped out of her chest. She longed for the power. All she could do was think and remember the feeling of that power surging through her, but she could do nothing except float and think. If only she could move. If only space wasn't devoid of everything. How long was she even out there?

Not long, my dear, a voice said in the back of her mind. Who was that? How were they able to communicate with her? Where were they? Rita, how could you forget me so easily? Was it…? It couldn't be… But it is, my dear.

My lord, Zedd? Rita thought back.

Yes, it is I. You failed at acquiring the crystal, didn't you? If Rita could close her eyes and hang her head in shame, she would. She said nothing. I admire the fact that you defeated your old team on your own. You have strength I did not anticipate, but this new team is unlike yours. They have a leader who views himself on their level. Zordon thought himself above the rest of you, did he not?

Yes, Rita thought bitterly.

This team is more connected than yours was. You can defeat them, and I can help you. We can take the zeo crystal and rule Earth together.

How?

I've sent a ship to the Earth's moon. Once you're in range, it will grab you and bring you in. Regain your strength and use what you need. The ship is my gift to you to do with as you please.

Why?

Because, like you, I want the crystal. I want to rule this galaxy, but I cannot accomplish it alone. I am not beneath admitting I need assistance. You, my dear, are the perfect partner. Partner. If Rita could, she'd have scoffed. She had had partners, she had had a team, and they ostracized her because she was willing to do what they couldn't. Partners would betray, they'd turn against one another until one was left to take the glory. My dearest Rita, you should know better than to think that of me. I am Lord Zedd of the Vicca Galaxy, Emperor of all I see, and even I know I must acquire help to conquer the universe. Think about it, I give you the means to take down the new power rangers and together we take the zeo crystal and with its power, we take over the galaxy. You can have reign over all of Earth. It will be yours.

Now that was something different. But how will I know you won't betray me? Rita asked.

Same as I know you won't use what I will give you against me. Trust.

Trust. She supposed that she could finally put some trust into someone who's willing to give her the means to destroy those in her way. The more she thought about it, the more she realized Zedd was right. She had managed to win against the power rangers, not once, but twice on her own. And both times she was very close. Perhaps a little assistance would be the game changer this time around. Very well, Lord Zedd. I accept your offer and your gifts.

Wonderful. This shall be a partnership that will be remembered for all eternity. Lord Zedd and Rita Repulsa, a force to be reckoned with!

It certainly made Rita excited. She'd have her glory after all, only she'd have to share the glory but if she were allowed to have reign over Earth on her own, well then, that would be a great win.

And also, Zedd added, I left an assistant for you on the ship. His name is Finster. He is a master sculptor who can make warriors should you require.

If Rita could smile, she would. Perhaps this outcome would not be so horrible after all.

Notes: Angel Grove in the original series was set in Southern California, probably near Los Angeles as where the majority of the filming took place. For the sake of the reboot movie, Angel Grove in this fic will be slightly further north towards Ventura county where dairy farms are and still close to the coast where commercial fishing occurs.