Title: Where Your Road Leads
Author: Sarafu
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: Power Rangers do not belong to me.
Summary: After ten years of hard work, the Dino Thunder team has found success, but for two of them, happiness remains elusive. Can they find it in each other?
Dedication: To all the hard-working DT trio authors because you guys rock and you make my day with updates to your stories. I admire your depth of exploration when you take three kids who seem to be a jock, a musician, and a geek respectively and actually look deeper to find Conner's insecurities, Kira's warmth, and Ethan's perception. I've learned so much from a lot of you – keep up the good work.
Author's Note: This whole chapter is devoted to setting the background of the story.
Fall 2005
Hey guys,
Boston is gorgeous in the fall. I can already hear the music Kira would write about the color of the leaves. After spending all that time in Reefside where the seasons never change, it's rather refreshing to actually see what autumn looks like. There's even a nip of cold in the air. Does it look the same in North Carolina, Conner?
My classes are fairly easy this semester, but Hayley swears that'll change next semester. I'm glad I spent the summer reading those books she recommended because it's made studying a little easier. I think I'm settling in pretty well – I'm one of the cool people here (shut up, Conner!). But the party scene leaves something to be desired. I guess I should be happy that Boston is a college town; there's always a party somewhere. There are a couple of really pretty girls in my dorm. They're not in the league of Nikki Valentina, but yes, Kira, they do have personalities and brains.
Speaking of personality, it's good to see that some people never change, Mr. Big Shot. Already dating half the school and on track to lead UNC to a national title? It's sounds like you're settling in nicely, too, Conner, but the $64000 question is how are your grades?
Kira, I wish I had your talent with languages. Sure you don't want to share a little of that with me? I can't believe you're taking both Italian and German this semester and French next semester. Not that I can imagine taking any of them – I'm perfectly happy with Java and C. How are the harpsichord lessons? That conservatory seems to have a more rigorous curriculum than MIT. And you're taking opera lessons next semester? I always knew you were a little crazy. It's good that you have Trent to keep you sane. How is he doing up there at SPU?
Did you all get that letter from Dr. O? I'm still bugging over the idea that he has a girlfriend. I wonder what's she's like, hopefully nothing like Randall. Guess we'll see at Christmas.
Peace out, Ethan
Spring 2006
"Dude, this had better be an emergency," a voice growled with menace.
"Conner? Ethan, what's wrong?" Kira sounded bleary, but a note of panic crept into her tone.
"Nothing's wrong except for the fact that this is the best day of my life. It even beats becoming a Ranger!" Ethan said, excitement racing across the phone line.
"You do know what time it is, right?" Conner still sounded very unhappy with the wake-up call. "It's Saturday before ten. No classes, no practice means sleeping in."
"If you hadn't stayed out partying all night, you might have heard Ethan when he said that he had good news. Be quiet, Conner."
Ethan laughed. Even though it was much earlier in Kira's time zone, she had listened to his words. "You know that internship I applied for? The one with EA Games? I got it – they think I'll be a good addition to the team."
His exhilarated news woke Conner fully. "Dude, you're going to work for the people who came up with Madden 2006? Awesome!"
"Yeah, I'm gonna fly out there the day after classes end. I don't think I'll be working for EA Sports – it's some sort of top-secret game. The best part is that I'll actually have a video game credit to my name. I'll be legitimate, and this internship could open all sorts of doors for me."
"So you're going to be working there the whole summer?" Kira asked neutrally.
As the implications of the thought sank into their heads, a silence settled between them. "Well, yeah, I guess so. But it won't be any different than college. There'll still be e-mail and phone calls, and I'll probably come home for a couple of weeks."
"I know, and it's a great opportunity, Ethan," she said with genuine happiness. "It's not like we had any huge plans."
"Maybe we could take a road trip to see you, bro," Conner suggested.
"I'd like that. I should let you guys get back to sleep. I still have to tell my parents."
Fall 2006
Hey Hayley,
Classes are going okay. Business management is not a fun major. I'd much rather be drawing, but whenever I sit down to try, all I can hear are my dad's final words. And those just make me pick up my books to study harder.
I haven't seen Kira much this year between her band rehearsals and my responsibilities to Anton Mercer Industries. But I'll pass the message to her since we have a dinner date at this great French bistro.
I wasn't too surprised to hear about Ethan's successful internship, but I'm happy for him. Kira tells everyone about his success, Conner, too. Sometimes I think the only people she ever talks about are Ethan and Conner. She missed Ethan over the summer. It was probably a good thing that Conner didn't go play pro soccer right away – she needed him. I only wish I had been able to spend more time with her, but she has entertained me with all sorts of stories about the mischief they got into.
How's Dr. O doing? Is the Cyberspace still the cool teen hangout? If you ever wanted to franchise it, it would be a financially sound investment and I know some guys.
Trent
Winter 2007
When the phone rang, Conner gratefully took a break from his math book. His caller ID flashed his best friend's name so he happily answered the phone. "Hey Kira, I didn't think I'd hear from you."
Soft sniffles traveled down the line. "Con-ner." Her voice broke as she started to sob.
Alarmed, he tried to soothe her tears. "Kira, take a deep breath and tell me what's wrong." Kira never cried.
He sensed her silent struggle for control, and eventually, the sobs trailed off into nothingness. "It's over," she said tremulously. "Me and Trent – it's over."
Torn between a thousand different emotions, he settled for sympathy. "Do you want to tell me what happened?"
"No," she said. "But I need to tell you."
He understood the cryptic words, knowing that she did not want to tell him because he had always been the most vocal opponent of their relationship. "Kira, tell me what that bastard did to you," he raged.
She managed a small watery chuckle. "How do you know it was Trent's fault?"
"Because you're the one crying. And you never cry. You get angry and yell or you get sad and withdraw, but you never cry."
Used to his random astute observations, Kira barely blinked an eye or acknowledged that he might be right. "I went to SPU to surprise Trent for lunch, but when I got there," her voice trembled slightly, "he was already having a romantic lunch with some girl from his Macroeconomics class. We both said some things and it turns out he's been seeing her for the last few months. Conner, he hates me because I remind him of when he was evil and I keep him from starting over." The tears started falling again with her announcement.
He murmured nonsense, trying helplessly to comfort while plotting the best way to kill Trent and thinking about the poetic irony of chopping his heart into tiny pieces. "He's the most idiotic person on the planet to hate you for anything especially because you stood by him at a time when most people would have cut and run." He kept talking about Kira's loyalty, friendship, and every other thing he admired about his best friend.
Listening to his words made her feel much better and before long, he had her giggling at his exaggerations. "Thank you, Conner."
"For what?"
'For not saying "I told you so."'
After he finally said goodbye to the tired girl, he put out an emergency call to Ethan, and they put together a plan to help Kira. When they appeared on her doorstep less than 24 hours later, she simply moved into their comforting arms and let them help her through the worst of the pain and betrayal in her heart.
Late Spring 2007
Dr. O,
I got the wedding invitation – I can't believe you're taking the plunge, but at least Kim is fairly normal even for an ex-Ranger. I should be able to make it to the ceremony even if I do make the U.S. Olympic Team (still can't believe they actually asked me to try out). We're going to be practicing all summer for the CONCACAF qualifying tournament, and I'm going to transfer to one of the colleges near the training facility. It's a good thing I had you guys riding me about my studies or I probably would've flunked out by now.
As much as I'm excited to play soccer against the rest of the world, I'm going to miss you all this summer. At least, Ethan and Kira will have you and Hayley in Reefside even if Ethan is going to be taking classes from Hayley so he can graduate early. I know he planning on keeping an eye on Kira, but can you watch out for her, too? I guess Trent has started trying to worm his way into her life by playing the "we can still be friends" card. She's not ready to deal with it, and I'm worried that he might try to force her to deal with it. That snake hurt her badly, and she's just now returning to the Kira that we all know. It took her weeks to write a new song, and musicians usually thrive on that sort of pain.
Tell Kim and Hayley I said hi, Conner
Fall 2007
Kira,
Thank you for your help with the wedding. I don't know how I could have done it without you to help with all the details. Between you and Hayley, I don't think any couple had better wedding planners. And I still cry when I hear that song you wrote for us (which has been often because Tommy and I have already watched the wedding video a hundred times).
I hope that I was able to help you with the Trent situation. I haven't really been in your shoes, but I've been on his side and friendships between exes don't work until time has passed. Don't force it into existence. It took Tommy and I years to get back to that point, but it was a deeper friendship because we weren't on pedestals any longer and we could understand each other. I'm not saying that you and Trent will ever find your ways back to each other, but it's important to know that love deserves as many chances as you can give it. It helps to have wonderful friends. Trust me - don't ever take them for granted. I hope that my perspective has helped even a little.
Have a good school year, Kim
Winter 2008
AP News Wire: The biggest story to come out of the Olympic training facility is a 21-year- old unknown named Conner McKnight. The rising soccer star is proving to be the best hope the US has in taking a medal in a sport where they rarely get close. He led the team to earn one of the twelve spots in the Olympic sport, and his speed and power are already legendary. It's hard to believe that the MLS and the U.S. National Team all missed the young powerhouse.
Spring 2008
"Dude, I really wish I could make it to your graduation. I'm so bummed that Coach won't let me fly out for the weekend. Otherwise, I'd totally be there."
"It's all right, Conner. You're an Olympian. There are some things that supersede a silly graduation. I really wish we could be there to see you win the gold medal. It's too bad tickets are so hard to come by."
"Well, Kira already said she has other plans for the summer. It really sounds like a regular gig at that nightclub could lead to something bigger. Plus, she's teaching sort of workshop to inner city kids. But you guys will be there in spirit."
"Damn right, and we'll be glued to the TV during your games."
"I still wish I could be at your graduation – it's too bad that you're such an overachieving geek. We could have had a huge graduation party at Hayley's next summer."
"We still can, Conner." Ethan paused before he spoke again. "It's weird that none of us will be in Reefside this summer."
"Not as weird as the fact that you have rejected a million job offers," Conner countered with a laugh. "Must be nice."
"The money that Microsoft paid for that file storage utility I developed was enough to start my own company."
"I can't believe you're gonna have your own company at 21."
"Says the rising Olympic star. Besides, I have a great idea based on one of the job offers I received."
"Really, what is it?" Conner asked with interest.
"It's a secret, but if it ever gets off the ground, you'll be the first one to know, okay?"
Fall 2008
Olympic bronze medalist Conner McKnight is most comfortable on the soccer field, but he looks relaxed as he slips into the seat across from me. He's dressed casually, wearing a Team USA shirt and jeans. The focus and concentration he usually reserves for the field is used to look over the menu. But when he finally orders a mountain of food, the intensity is gone and what's left is a charming young man with a devastating smile. It's little wonder that he has thousands in his fan club. More surprising is his candor on and off the field.
How does it feel to be called the next David Beckham? He wishes. No, really, I'm Conner McKnight and that's enough.
You wound up with quite a reputation at the Games. Why did you talk about winning rather than competing? To most athletes, just competing is an honor. Well, sure, but we were all there to win, and if they were honest with themselves, they'd see that winning is even more important.
What were you thinking as they gave you the bronze medal? Next time, it's going to be a gold medal with the American anthem playing in the background.
Your critics have called you cocky and arrogant. What would you say to them? Stand in line – you're not the first to call me that. Self-confidence is always a threat to the insecure.
Who would you dedicate your victory to? There are a lot of people who deserve recognition. My parents, my coaches, Dr. Oliver, Hayley, but I'd have to say Ethan and Kira, my best friends who couldn't be there in person.
You already are quite the lady-killer. Have you found that someone special yet? Nope, I'm still looking but I'm having fun doing it. I'm too young to settle down, and I have impossibly low standards according to my friends. I guess I should find some of those first.
Why did you choose to finish up school instead of going into Major League Soccer? I know you've had several offers. Education is important, and I believe in finishing things. There will be a new draft in the spring – that's soon enough.
Would you consider joining the U.S. National Team in time for the World Cup Championship? Not until I have a gold medal first and foremost. Ask me in 2012.
Spring 2009
"Do you really think you'll go first today?" Kira asked from her seat next to Conner.
"My agent thinks so. He's already had half a dozen offers from teams. I think I'll be playing somewhere on the East Coast though since that's where most of the interest is coming from."
"Will you be going to a good team?"
"Probably not, but I don't mind. I want a team that rebuilding and has room for a new leader."
"Kira, look, we're on TV," Ethan said, pointing at a big screen TV where an ESPN commentator was wondering about the two mystery people with Conner McKnight.
"Does my hair really look like that?" Kira sounded horrified.
"Don't touch it; you'll make it noticeable and worse, Kira," Conner advised with a wicked grin. "And dude, don't point. It makes you look like a hick.'
"Oh yes, wise one." Ethan rolled his eyes at Kira, but the pair took his advice, aware of his experience in the national limelight.
Kira suddenly dove into her bag and pulled out a grainy X-ray. "Kim sent me this to show you."
They stared dubiously at the tiny peanut-shaped image. "What are we looking at?"
"The baby."
"I can't believe Dr. O's going to be a dad," Ethan said.
Her friends agreed wholeheartedly as Kira murmured, "Better him than us.'
An announcement interrupted the discussion. "The New York/New Jersey Metrostars will be making the first pick of the 2009 Superdraft." Conner gave a nearly imperceptible nod toward one of the sharply dressed men nearby. Kira glanced at him quizzically, but he shrugged and indicated patience. "And the first selection is as expected . . . Conner McKnight, University of North Carolina."
"Dude, that's you!" Ethan jumped from his chair with excitement.
"I know," Conner said, but he was clearly thrilled, grinning as he hugged his best friend.
Turning to Kira, he beamed at her with joy. "That's awesome, Conner. We knew you could do it." Her eyes shone with delight, and she kissed his cheek impulsively amid blinding flashbulbs.
"I'm playing pro soccer, Kira!" He swept her up into a hug that was soon joined by Ethan, three people who completely ignored the chaos surrounding them for the shared success.
Fall 2009
Conner,
It looks like that educational soccer game you suggested it going to be a huge hit in foreign countries. Thanks for endorsing the product – your household name is going to make it popular in the U.S. as well. It's probably a good thing that you are popular – I never realized that pro soccer paid so little compared to other sports. And yet I can't help but fear the giant thirty-foot billboards everywhere featuring you and a bottle of Gatorade. By the way, the number of magazines that have you on the cover amuses me. You don't know how to do things by half-measures, do you?
My secret project plods on, but I think I'm close to a breakthrough and you'll be the first to know what the project is like I promised. Glad you and Kira both liked the stock certificates I gave you as graduation presents – hold onto those, they'll be worth something someday. I'm still dating Angela who told me to say hi and ask when the pin-up calendar is coming out. I informed her that your ego really didn't need any more ideas, and the only reason I would buy an item like that is to throw darts at it.
I talked to Trent last week. He's already taken over a few mismanaged companies and made a few million for AMI. Not bad for the guy who never wanted to touch his dad's business. He hasn't heard from Kira lately, and I think it's been a month or so since I talked to her. You haven't talked to her by any chance, have you? I'm worried about her – she's sounded pretty down the last few times I've talked to her.
Talk to you soon, Ethan
Winter 2010
IT'S A GIRL!
Name: Alexa Lynn Oliver
Weight: 7 lbs, 1 oz
Height: 21 inches
Date: January 17, 2010
Time: 9:01 p.m.
Dear Kira,
Baby Alexa is the sweetest infant on the planet. She has her daddy's eyes and disposition, and she already laughs at the world around her. Tommy and I hope you will make it back in time for Hayley's surprise party. Anything we can do to make it possible, just let us know.
I don't pretend to know what's going through your head right now, but Conner and Ethan are incredibly worried about you. To have two strong hearts devoted to you is a gift. They think that you're pulling away because of their success, that it makes you a failure somehow, but I told them not to be so ridiculous. The Kira Ford I know is too strong and persistent to let anything so silly affect her that deeply. Write back soon and let me know if you meet any cute boys. Remember, I live vicariously through you now. I'm including a copy of Conner's pin-up calendar because it is priceless.
With love from the whole Oliver family, Kim
P.S. Alexa desperately wants to meet you.
Spring 2010
Kira,
If you ever do anything like that again, I will fly to Seattle and strangle you myself. You had us all worried about you for far too long. You're more than just a waitress, and you never could be just a waitress. You were a Yellow Ranger in a long line of noble Yellow Rangers (and the best if I do say so myself) – that alone validates your entire existence. More than that though, you can speak four languages fluently and play five different instruments which is more than Ethan and I can do. So you don't want to play in an orchestra or join an opera company? Don't then – it's that simple. You told me yourself that you have a pretty loyal fan following. Just keep building on that. Everyone knows that music is the hardest industry to break into. Ethan and I had an easier time because there are traditional paths to follow, and Trent pretty much inherited his business. But you – only like one percent of aspiring singers/musicians ever make it – it's an ugly statistic, but Kira Ford, you are one of the one percent. There's no one like you at all, and we all know that your songs have always been better than the crap played on the radio. But if you ever, ever pull away from us all again, I swear . . .
Has Ethan said much to you about his secret project? He won't say anything about it to me except that he's going to reveal it soon. Can't believe he suggested that Kim send you a copy of the pin-up calendar. He's using his for darts – let me guess, you're using yours for a coaster, right?
My team is doing really well this year. A lot of people think we'll win the Lamar Hunt Trophy and the U.S. Cup if we can keep winning on the road. There's not much to tell on the dating front, just the usual round of soccer groupies and models. None of them were interesting enough to last much longer than a couple of weeks.
I will call later this week, Conner
Fall 2010
In business news, software developer Ethan James unveiled a new technology this week to the delight of Wall Street and several wireless companies. The new technology for cell phones allows users to talk directly to each other using video. Unlike webcams and cell cameras, the vid cell technology is real time, crystal clear communication. He is currently entertaining offers from Verizon, AT&T, and Cingular. Leaks from company officials claim that the bidding started in the hundred millions and could reach a billion dollars before James sells the technology. James had little to say, only commenting, "The cell phone industry has become stale in the last few years. I suspect that vid cell tech will revolutionize the industry and change the future of cell phones." When asked about future projects, James remained silent and secretive.
Winter 2011
Dear Man of the Year,
I don't think you can accuse me of being a glory hog anymore. For one thing, all of my covers of People, US Weekly, and ESPN are nothing compared to a prestigious magazine like Time. For another, I see your face all over the TV these days. I still can't believe you manage to create a technology that's already changing the face of communications. C'mon, you can tell me how much Verizon finally ponied up for vid cell technology. I'm your best friend, dude.
It sounds like Kira is doing pretty well in Seattle. Her first gig at that hot new club was awesome. She's pretty pissed at me though. I don't know what's wrong with mentioning her name once or twice in interviews is such a bad thing, but she keeps talking about losing credibility as an artist and how she wants to make it on her own without her friends' connections. Maybe you understand what she's talking about? I don't like the sound of her new relationship – he sounds like Trent, only weirder, but she told me to butt out of that, too.
I heard from Dr. O last week. He and Kim are gonna bring Alexa to New York for spring break He says Hayley is doing great and that she's had an offer to franchise out the concept. I think it's pretty cool to imagine having a Hayley's right down the street since it's one of the things I miss most about Reefside. I guess Trent's picked up quite a reputation for ruthless takeovers – nice to see the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. I'd pretend to be shocked, but I remember that particular trait very well.
What's it like to be one of the richest men on the planet? Are you still dating that actress from Ocean Alert?
Conner (the real Man of the Year)
Summer 2011
Conner,
How goes practice? I remember that the last time you thought it was a piece of cake, but this time out, you're not the young unknown. In fact, as one of only three players over 23, you're quite old. I was sorry to read about your latest break-up with Gina, the anorexic model, but only because all the tabloids were predicting a wedding by the end of the year. Since I am one of your best friends and wasn't even aware that you were out shopping for an engagement ring, I'm guessing it was a ploy for media attention. After all, Ethan has been hogging your spotlight for almost eight months now. But just so you know, I only watch because it's like watching a train wreck. I mean the idea of the great Conner McKnight losing his heart – it just makes me laugh. Especially since I know you have better taste than that.
Everything is fine here. We actually have had a couple of record producers come through to listen to a set or two. They keep saying we're not right for the markets they're looking for, but they really do like the music. One even said I have a future in songwriting. I'm planning to go back to Reefside at Christmas, and I know Ethan will be there – will the great Conner McKnight be joining us?
Speaking of Ethan, I don't think I've ever heard him so happy before. He's well on his way to becoming that multi-billionaire that he used to taunt you about. I'm glad because I don't know anyone who deserves success more than you and Ethan.
I'm still thinking about your offer. I do know that the one thing I won't do is cash in that stock certificate that Ethan gave me for graduation even if it is worth a lot of money. But I do want to go, Conner – I just don't know how I would pay you back. I'll give you an answer at Christmas. Maybe that'll give you an incentive to join us.
Love, Kira
Winter 2012
Hayley,
It's funny that NASA won't let you tell anyone where you are – I know it's a top-secret project, but who would try to destroy NASA? Anyway, the kids were home for Christmas this year which was great – it seemed almost like old times. Trent declared that Hayley's isn't the same without you, and the kids backed his assertion up. Conner, Ethan, and Kira all looked great and they seem pretty content with their lives. Ethan brought home his newest girlfriend, and she seemed very down-to-earth and funny – I think you'd like her a lot. Conner was surprisingly solo, but I guess he likes it that way so he can focus on the Olympics. He's determined to win that gold this time. Kira was a lot happier than she's been in a long time. Trent's the one I'm worried about though. He appeared to be extra-stressed and lonely.
Kim says hi and hopes you'll be back in time for the new baby. Alexa is very excited to be a big sister – she misses her Aunt Hayley though.
See you soon (hopefully), Tommy
Late Fall 2012
Breakout Artist of the Year: Newest singing sensation Kira Ford is the name on everybody's lips right now. Kira languished on the Seattle music scene until a rising record executive discovered her playing in one of the hottest clubs. Jim Archer offered her a record contract on the spot, but rumor has it that she refused to sign until the lawyers of her best friends looked it over. Once she did, everything happened in a blur according to Kira. She recorded the album in two weeks, using her own material to fill an album. She then flew to New York to watch childhood friend Conner McKnight lead the U.S. Men's Soccer Team to its first Olympic gold. As her plane landed, she was greeted with the news that she had the number one song in the country. When her album debuted a few days later, it landed in the number one spot on the Billboard chart. Since then, Kira's album, "Freak You Out," has gone gold, and every stop on her first limited tour sold out within an hour. She has been a fresh, honest voice in a music industry dominated by hip-hop and rap, and she has almost single-handedly revitalized the rock scene. With a gold album under her belt, Kira is already back in the studio to record her sophomore album with a release date some time next spring.
Winter 2013
"A year ago, I never would have dreamed that I would be on this stage, accepting a Grammy for Best Rock Album, but this whole crazy ride of success would be nothing without the people I love. First of all, I want to thank my fans who have been wonderfully supportive, and I want to thank every single artist in this auditorium tonight for paving the way and pushing the boundaries of music. Mom, Dad, thank you for the dance lessons, music appreciation, and my first guitar. Hayley, Kim, Alexa, Ben, I love you all. Trent, even in the worst of times, you've been an inspiration. Dr. O, thanks for bringing me together with the best friends I could ask for. Ethan and Conner, your success has been my success, and my success is your success, too. This Grammy is for you as much as it's for me. I love you guys."
Fall 2013
Class of '05 Alumni Newsletter
Reefside's own Grammy-winner Kira Ford recently returned home to be closer to LA. The platinum artist played to sold-out crowds all summer long on her recent tour while her second album remains on the top of the Billboard chart.
Olympic gold medalist Conner McKnight, Athlete of the Year 2012, is currently helping the U.S. National team to qualify for its first World Cup in a decade. He is determined to win the World Cup for the first time in U.S. history.
EJ Software has become a household name thanks to many successful programs and games developed by Ethan James. Best now for his revolutionary vid cell technology, the software creator has been seen around Reefside often. Could he be looking for a new project?
Business magnate Trent Fernandez-Mercer has found his success by turning local company Anton Mercer Industries into a multinational conglomerate.
Devin Armstrong is currently writing human-interest stories for a variety of magazines including People, TV Guide, and Vogue.
Local reporter Cassidy Cornell has been promoted to field reporter at KVPR.