Sorry for leaving you all hanging. It's hard trying to maintain some writing standard and making sure there are no common English mistakes. If there is, I will come back to fix them!
Anyways; I have now introduced some of the important cast of Dino Thunder. Like the previous story; it will be following the layout. So expect large time jumps in this AU version of Dino Thunder and I hope I do this well.
Lastly; I do not own the song: War of Hearts - Ruelle. One last note: I will be using a song or two in this story and they have a significance.
Enjoy Chapter One!
"Every second brings a fresh beginning.
Every hour holds a new promise.
Every night our dreams can bring hope and
every day is what you choose to make it."
- Unknown
Chapter 1: Welcome To Reefside
Two Years Later…
12:25…
Tuesday…
15th July 2003…
Canon: Pre-Power Rangers Dino Thunder
(Scene: Kimberly's and Aegis' Apartment, Apartment Block, City Centre, Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
Myself and Aegis entered the apartment we rented until we could find somewhere more permanent. I can't believe the two years have flown by so quickly! I got a place in a teaching course for History while my cousin opted for Maths. He was considering at lecturing for Computer Science, but he complained how 'primitive' Earth's technology is. I must be fair, I kind of forgot how far behind Earth is in technological advances despite constructing Terra Venture; which is now being reconstructed as Terra Venture City on Mirinoi. However engineers and scientists used the technology they salvaged after Countdown To Destruction, reverse-engineered it for their use. I would have helped with negotiations between the Natives and the Colony, but I was just too busy in helping Eltar recover. I had to take priorities and Eltar came first. They were in good hands though; as the new chosen Champions of the Quasar Sabres appeared, further following my father's legacy. I wonder how Maya is, when I wasn't doing reconnaissance with my squad; she offered a room for me to stay in and we got to know each other very well. The Mirinoians are very hospitable people Back to the matter at hand, my home planet was really hit hard; so I had to stay.
Anyways, on a happier note, thanks to our increased intelligence, Aegis and I graduated earlier than our peers; as Mature Students. Aegis now has a Masters in Mathematics; while I caught the attention of some History Professors. They said if I helped them with some of their research; they'll help provide the fees so I can get my Post Doctorate! I got to skip getting a Masters altogether! So now, I'm Dr. Kimberly Hart; Aegis mercilessly teases me that my PhD is making my ego too big. I got back at him for that statement with good old fashion sparring at the gym. Both of us moved to Reefside because there were two vacant jobs; one looking for a Maths Teacher and the other History. The two of us jumped before the positions were gone; we were told to come in for an interview around July twenty-fifth. I've been given the twelve-thirty interview and Aegis got the one-thirty slot. What was the principal's name again? Oh right, Principal Randall; she took over after the previous one retired. I dropped by the school to get a look at it, met the caretaker and he said he heard rumours that Principal Randall is a walking Hurricane Katrina. One woman can't be that bad. Can she?
My cousin helped me place the groceries on the kitchen counter and began to put things away. He surprisingly adapted to Earth pretty quickly, I was expecting to give him a nutshell lecture on how things worked here. I guess he observed some of Earth's culture during his stay when the second generation Turbo Rangers were on duty. To be fair, I struggled adapting a little too; when I was writing my application for the school, Aegis was ahead writing perfect English until he told me I was filling in my page in Eltarian. Rewriting the application was not fun! At all. What did you get expect? I spent seven years writing and speaking Eltarian, now my English is a little out of whack. Even though I know my cousin well, we spent time together walking through the park, going to the movies and all that. People had mistaken us as a married couple or boyfriend and girlfriend. It really confused Aegis; subjects on love and marriage was done a little more formally on Eltar. The people of Earth are a bit more lax, yet… it's too complicated to explain. Although, it's an awkward thought; like come on people! That's technically incest! When Aegis and I went to look at the apartment, the landlord… or landlady thought we were together! And that was what? Four weeks ago? I looked back to it.
Four Weeks Ago…
13:00…
Friday…
18th June 2003…
(Flashback/Scene: Apartment Block, City Centre, Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
The landlady turned the key to open the door to let myself and my cousin into the apartment. The two of us had a good look around; nice space, plenty of natural light coming in from the slide doors that lead out to a balcony. There is a decent kitchen and we also have stable Wi-Fi; the dining table was large enough for both myself and Aegis to work on; when we get to the point of correcting homework and grading papers and tests. That sounds so fun, but that's the joy of a teaching job. I was given a job to lecture in the University I studied in, but I declined the offer. There's something about high schools I like. I snapped myself back to the apartment. I'm actually impressed with this property; we're inside the city, only a fifteen minute drive from Reefside High School and we have a nice view of the marina, it's perfect! The landlady knew the two of us were liking the apartment; she saw it on our faces and knew that we'll take it.
"I take it you both like the apartment?" She asked us,
"We do indeed Mrs Ford. We'll take the place." I answered. "What's the rent?",
"The price of the rent is one thousand-five hundred dollars for the year; which is…" Aegis beat Mrs Ford on the maths.
"A hundred and twenty-five dollars a month; excluding electricity and heating bills, tax and other miscellaneous." I had to hold back a laughter there. You can't deny the fact Eltarians are somewhat superior intellects.
"That is the cheapest offered on the market. So I'm taking this is a 'yes' Mr. and Mrs. Callaghan?" Aegis and I choked on air upon hearing that. Whoa! Time out woman! Aegis was blushing a deep shade of red, while I was getting my breathing under control. This was happening as Mrs Ford stared at us totally confused, so I cleared things up for her.
"You must be mistaken Mrs Ford; Aaron and I are not married, nor together. We're merely cousins.",
"Oh… I'm sorry I put you two in an awkward position." In the end, myself and Aegis laughed. Aegis answered for me.
"It's alright Mrs Ford. Everyone makes mistakes." I watched as the landlady loosened up a little and smiled herself.
"I guess we have a deal then; on one condition.",
"What's that?",
"Please call me Emily. I don't do formalities and don't make me feel older than I already am." We all chuckled a little. My cousin and I shook hands with her to seal the deal on the apartment. Emily helped us in filling out the form; from what I learned she had to work her way up. She started off as a property surveyor, then diverged off into other jobs within the property ladder. That must not be easy. It took about twenty minutes to fill in the application form, but we got it done. The apartment was ours, as long as we stayed on top of the rent. Emily handed me the keys; I have to find a locksmith to cut another set for Aegis. Seems like things in Reefside are going to get real good.
(Flashback Ends)
I placed the last of the groceries in the food cabinet; we stocked up on more than enough food for a good few weeks. Unfortunately, Aegis or myself were not in the mood to cook, we decided to take it easy. So I ordered some take-out and we both have to prepare for our interviews that is in ten days. I wonder how bad Pincipal Randall can be really. It's not like she's going to chew us inside out.
Ten Days Later…
12:10…
Friday…
25th July 2003…
(Scene: Principal's Office, Reefside High School, Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
I sat before Principal Randall herself. OK, I take back what I said ten days ago! I admit, I am a little nervous of her. She was a tall woman, nearly matching Kat in height, she wore glasses and had short black hair. She is a bit intimidating, even by the way she speaks. However, I never expected to be called in this early, I am the twelve-thirty slot! Aegis will be in about an hour after me. Something about Principal Randall was… throwing me off. I'm getting an aura off her that… she's not who she really is. Rhea is getting the same feeling and feels slightly dodge; for the lack of a better word, about Randall.
However, I brushed it all off. Sometimes I curse my ranger instincts; must be because I used my Ninjetti Powers a lot during Countdown To Destruction. Now, I'm a retired Power Ranger. Not to mention, after my experience on Eltar, I have grown accustomed to the possibilities of moles, in other words spies. I rather not get into that; it was a very bad betrayal by a close friend of my mom's, a friend I thought, I saw as family. I even had my fair share of assassins; yes, attempts on my life were made. Most assassins were hired by The Alliance; they all failed thanks to Rhea being on guard. Yes, I was that much of a pain in the ass and while I led the army, I was a serious threat. Fuck! There was a 'Kill On Sight' order and a bounty on me! Thanks to that, I did have a momentary lapse of paranoia, having difficulty trusting people. I looked at Randall, she… seems pretty satisfied with the questions I answered; then she decided to throw in a few more.
"So Dr. Hart. For someone with a PhD in History, what brings you here? To teach high school students? It's a little strange for someone with impressive qualifications." Her voice was devilishly smooth, yet a tad bit unnerving. "Even so far that you did not have to study for a Masters. You are an unique woman." I didn't respond to that part, but I answered her first question.
"I guess I am just looking for some peace and quiet." I answered with a small smile. That is partly the truth too; I did need some quiet time after surviving a full scale war! Randall leaned back into her office chair, looking at me with calculating eyes.
"Funny, that's the same answer I got from a Science Teacher I interviewed." I gulped, what Science Teacher? She makes it out like I should know him or her for that matter. Randall then brought out her hand. "Welcome to Reefside Dr Hart." I raised an eyebrow; just like that!? I expected some sort of processing to be going on! I wonder will she do the same with Aegis. Principal Randall read the surprise off my face. "None of the other candidates impressed me Dr Hart." I stood up and shook hands with Randall.
"I'll be back in to sort out my assigned classroom and the History curriculum." I told her. Before I reached the door, Randall threw in some last minute words; or advice for that manner.
"Here's some advice: be tough on the students, painful if possible. If they smile, you're doing something wrong. Make their lives as miserable as possible." I frowned. Uh… alright then, I'll just pretend I didn't hear that. Well, at least it's good to know I have a job. If Aegis is equally lucky, the two of us will go out to celebrate. We really need to get to know Reefside a little better; it's not Angel Grove but… it is better than actually being home. That reminds me, I should contact Jason and Kat. The two of them must going up their rockers wondering what happened to me, since I literally vanished off the face of the Earth. No doubt Jason is trying every single means to contact me, while Kat is most likely growing out her nails so she can scratch me to Hell and back! I even bet Aisha and Trini will be preparing a very, very long rant/lecture when they hear I'm back; so will Aisha's Animal Spirit Artemis!
I made my way out of the office, pulling my cell phone out to call my cousin and let him know I got the job. Also to warn him in advance about Principal Randall; it'll be a blow to his ego if he gets sacred by her. I feel sorry for all the other workers here. That woman is definitely a force to be reckoned with. What was her previous job? A prison officer? I walked back to my car after contacting Aegis, so he's warned in advance. I got into my car and drove away back to the apartment so I could get into something more comfortable.
Three Hours Later…
15:10…
(Scene: Kimberly's and Aegis' Apartment, Apartment Block, City Centre, Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
I sat on the couch with a cup of tea, reading over a research paper published by a well known historian. In the corner, there are some history boxsets that I still have to go through. Some from my adoptive parents as a birthday gift and others from my friends. It's been what? Over half a decade since I was last in contact with my friends. I sort of disconnected from Jason after The Muranthias Incident; Zach and Trini have been really busy with The World Teen Summit in Switzerland. If I remember correctly, Jason told me Aisha is in Africa working as a vet. That was her dream; that's how Tanya took her place as Zeo Ranger Two Yellow. Aisha swapped places with her during her Zeo Crystal Shard quest. I miss my friends, Jason is another person burdened with my secret. Also, I don't know what happened to Billy; I'm guessing he's permanently staying on Aquitar. I slightly chuckled, it's so ironic since his childhood fear is fish! By now, it is probably conquered. The last time I have seen and talked to him was during war meetings and transmissions. Our contact became less and less frequent as I got busier, as did he. Even if the former Original Blue and Wolf Ninjetti Ranger did return to Earth, no doubt he kept my location quiet too.
Next, I heard the door open after hearing the familiar click of the key turning in the keyhole. I watched as Aegis entered the apartment; wow. He looks so smart and devilishly handsome in that suit and his black hair combed back neatly. Aegis finally decided to get his dark black locks cut; he said it will make him look more professional. Well, it makes him look more cute; if he manages to find Cassie, she's going to be fawning over him. He decided to go looking for Cassie after we settle into our jobs; but I did warn him, if he leaves it too late… someone else will win Cassie's affections. The last thing I need is to calm down an angry, pissed off cousin who's also the Phantom Ranger!
Speaking of which, mother insisted that my cousin should take the Power Ruby just in case. She gave his Ruby an upgrade, having it placed in a morpher similar to the one I used to have during my Ranger days. However, the Ruby will be safer. Aegis told me how Divatox stole his Power Ruby and he went through an energy/life force drain. A similar situation I went through. Anyways; I have my Ninjetti Powers and Rhea is like a second pair of eyes for me, having an Animal Spirit that can materialise and disappear from view is handy. Also, if I need the Ninjetti Powers; Rhea will help me tap into them. Seriously though, my mother is being too over protective; what dangers are out there now? Father's energy wave would have purified or vanquished a good majority of our enemies. Aegis and I should be enjoying life as retired former Rangers. I looked up at Aegis, he looked a little shaken, but he was smiling. I got up to prepare another cup of tea for him, as he threw off his shoes and jacket.
"So how did it go?" I asked him, as I boiled up the kettle.
"Jesus Kara! That woman is bat shit crazy!" He exclaims. I see he has become accustomed to Earth's way of speaking. Eltar was so formal, I guess it's a little freeing for him. "Other than that..." The was a pause in the air. Aegis is doing this on purpose. I glared at him and so, he had to say it. "I got the job!" After I poured the water with the teabag inside, I ran over to him and hugged my cousin.
"That's brilliant Aegis!" I laughed. We'll be working together in the same high school! That will make fitting in a little better, for both of us anyways. Then a thought came to my head. "After tea, we're celebrating. Put on some comfortable clothes cousin.",
"Where are we going?" Aegis questioned,
"There's this place called Hayley's Cyberspace. It's technically an internet café." I explained,
"Sounds like a plan." He agreed, smiling.
One Hour Later…
16:10…
(Scene: Hayley's Cyberspace Café, City Centre, Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
Aegis and I entered the café wearing our casual clothes. I had a good look at it. It reminds me of the Youth Centre and Ernie's Juice Bar. Well… it doesn't exactly have the room, space or size Ernie had. So much has changed while I was away, sometimes I wonder is Earth even home anymore. I feel… so out of place, have I embraced Eltar too much? Just when I thought I was getting too uncomfortable there since my father's passing. Maybe I'm having a reverse psychology moment. I snapped out of my thoughts when Aegis signalled me to come over after he found a seat for the two of us. I made my way over, then sat down. At that same time, a woman approached us. She was slightly taller than me, red-brown hair and had a dark shade of brown eyes. Wow, she own this place!? It's doing as well as Ernie's back in the day.
"Good evening. I'm Hayley Zitkor." Zitkor? Is she related to this dodgy entrepreneur Karl Zitkor? Owner of the controversial Zitkor Industries in Cross World City? I read a few things about him and his business in the paper a couple of years back. She then looked at the two of us. "New to Reefside?",
"Yeah. We recently got a teaching position here." I said to her,
"Well congratulations on your new jobs…" She doesn't know our names. We decided to be friendly and greet her. Aegis reached out first.
"I'm Aaron. Aaron Callaghan." The two of them shook hands. Aegis really has grown to his new Earth name. My turn.
"And I'm Kimberly Hart." Then, for a second there; I swore I saw Hayley? I think? Her eyes flashed with subtle anger. Does she know me somehow? But who could have told her about me? Did she know any of my friends? Does she know of my origins? Her features relaxed then, but I'm not letting this go. I could hear Rhea huffing in annoyance. "Aaron and I are cousins.",
"Yup. This is my pride and joy." Hayley said to us, sounding friendly again. "So what can I get for you two?" She questioned, preparing to take our orders.
"Do you do smoothies?" I asked her,
"There's nothing I can do. Preference?",
"Strawberry smoothie." I said,
"Vanilla for me." Aegis answered. Hayley jotted down our orders, smiling and walking off to prepare the smoothies. I leaned back into the chair as Aegis noticed my change, he knew my eyes were threatening to glow red or do some kind of light show. He placed a hand on my shoulder as Rhea calmed me down as well. I bet even Aegis noticed Hayley's eyes glaring at me. She knows about the letter I sent. The only person who would have told her is… Tommy. Perhaps the two of them went to college together, I won't be surprised if they are together. Looks like Hayley has a reason to subtly hate me; I did break Tommy's heart and it was in a cold, cruel way. Sometimes… I hate myself for it.
Mother actually forced me to take a break from military duty because I was depressed and needed a little time to heal. Hell, I was angry at myself and took my temper out on the soldiers. I was insistent that working will take my mind off Tommy, but she wouldn't back down and I conceded. Well, I do know where I inherited the stubbornness from. Shortly, Hayley arrived with our smoothies and left the bill. She prices them fairly too, no doubt this place gets busy all year round, especially when the students come. Aegis and I spent some time chatting, I reminisced our time on Eltar, getting to know each other. We were practically estranged family members at the start and wary of each other. I told him of my time in Angel Grove, also how difficult life was for me. Time flew by so quickly, as we both laughed at some embarrassing stories of our lives. We long finished our smoothies, they were pretty good. They'll rival Ernie's smoothies too.
I listened to Aegis as he told me a tale about his childhood, then… my eyes caught a figure entering the café. He was tall, roughly five foot eleven, hair was black, short and spiked, on his chin was a small goatee. Not to mention, he was dressed in black. Then I saw his brown, puppy-dog eyes. The unforgetful, adorable puppy brown eyes. Oh my god! Tommy!? He's here in Reefside too!? Then I remembered Randall's words:
"Funny, that's the same answer I got from a Science Teacher I interviewed." Shit! She was talking about Tommy! Wait? Back up! Tommy is a Science Teacher!? I expected him to open up his own dojo or something like that or even continue his racing career. I knew he liked Palaeontology, but I thought it was just a side hobby. I did not think he would follow it up and use it to be a Science Teacher! I mentally told Rhea to keep quiet to avoid waking Caesar; which she protested to, but I put up a mental block, imagining it as a large bird cage. She's going to hate me for that. I whispered to Aegis.
"Keep your back turned to me!" Aegis stood in his position, keeping completely still. His height kept me out Tommy's line of sight as he made his way over to the counter where Hayley stood. I hope she doesn't say anything! I have to get out of here! While Tommy was busy talking to Hayley, I passed Aegis the cash to pay for the smoothies. "Pay the bill! I'll meet you outside!" My cousin stood up to approach Hayley to pay for our drinks, while I snuck out of the café. Once I got outside, I leaned by back against the wall. If Tommy's here, then he's working in the same high school! I'm going to be seeing him everyday! Five days a week! Shit! Why me!? I was hoping to not run into him so soon! Rhea then freed herself from my mental block and appeared, resting on my shoulder.
"You can't run away from this Kara." She soothed, "This is your chance to tell him the truth!" I had to close my eyes to prevent tears from falling.
"That's the thing Rhea, I don't think I can." I sat onto the ground, my back still against the wall. I clutched my head. "It's happening too fast!",
"I assume fate wants to speed things up." My Crane comforted,
"It's too fast for me. I feel Tommy still hates me." With that response, all I could hear was Rhea cooing in sadness. She really wants to reunite with Caesar, but I'm too scared to go anywhere near or even be three hundred feet within Tommy's radius or line of sight. Aegis exited the café, finding me on the ground. He helped me up and we walked back to our apartment.
18:45…
(Scene: Kimberly's and Aegis' Apartment, Apartment Block, City Centre, Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
The two of us returned to the apartment, kicking off our shoes and tossing our jackets onto the couch. I went into the sitting area where I had my acoustic guitar resting on its stand. It's been a while since I last sang, but I need to get this off my chest and just… release my emotions of what just transpired. I genuinely did not want to run into Tommy. Fate is funny, I think Rhea is right; it's like the universe is trying to get long lost lovers back together. Tommy and I are soulmates, we destined for each other, one way or another.
Then, I remembered the song I wrote in my spare time after Countdown To Destruction; I wrote it to release some inner turmoil for my love for Tommy, but it was love I couldn't have. How can I get or win something back, if I willingly gave it up? I pushed Tommy out of my life because I was scared he would become suspicious and realise I was on Eltar. He really would have followed me, I couldn't have that! I would be devastated if he had died. That was the reason for the 'Dear John' letter; I could not risk putting his life in danger. I had to focus on the war; any thoughts of Tommy were fatal to me. It has harsh, but it was the reality I had to accept. Not to mention, Tommy was needed, to be stationed as an Earth Ranger; I would not let him get up and leave his post like I did. Aegis watched as I began strumming the guitar strings. The song is fittingly called War of Hearts. I played the ten second intro instrumental, then I began to sing the lyrics.
"Come to me,
In the night hours,
I will wait for you.
And I can't sleep,
Cause thoughts devour.
Thoughts of you consume.
I can't help but love you,
Even though I try not to!
I can't help but want you,
I know that I'd die without you.
Stay with me a little longer,
I will wait for you.
Shadows creep,
And want grows stronger,
Deeper than the truth.
I can't help but love you,
Even though I try not to!
I can't help but want you,
I know that I'd die without you!
I can't help but be wrong in the dark,
Cause I'm overcome in this war of hearts.
I can't help but want oceans to part,
Cause I'm overcome in this war of hearts.
I can't help but love you,
Even though I try not to!
I can't help but want you,
I know that I'd die without you!
I can't help but be wrong in the dark,
Cause I'm overcome in this war of hearts.
I can't help but want oceans to part,
Cause I'm overcome in this war of hearts."
After strumming the last chord, I put the guitar down. I have almost forgotten how freeing music is. I was too busy to make it a hobby again while I was working for my Post Doctorate. I looked around to see Aegis left the living area; he must be tired. We did have a long day and even though my cousin has adjusted to Earth, his body clock has not exactly adjusted to the time difference and the planet's rotations. Eltar's rotation is slower than on Earth; by now I think it is either evening or nightfall. I wonder how Aria is doing, most likely busy trying to rebuild Eltar. I was surprised that she let myself and Aegis leave the planet on short notice; but she knew our hearts were longing for loved ones we let go. Aria could see that fate may give us a second chance and we can't ruin that! We won't get a third chance. The two of us have fallen for… very special humans of Earth. Yet she gave us some portable communication technology so we can talk to her anytime. Which is nice of her, like the caring mother and aunt she is.
(No POV)
Kimberly put the guitar back on its stand, making her way to her bedroom to change into nightwear. Kim took out her pyjamas and began to take off her clothes, removing her jeans, replacing them with her PJ pants. She slightly hesitated when removing her pink checked shirt; Kim just sighed as she took the shirt off fully, turning her back to the mirror, revealing the literal scars of war underneath. Her back was marred and crisscrossed with scars of various length, thickness and shades of white. Some scars were faint, others were clearer than the rest. A tear slipped down her cheek; these are more than just scars. They are battle and torture scars. A few scars were still sensitive to touch, primarily the long ones that are visibly seen; especially the one that rested between her shoulder blades, before stopping at the small of her back in a diagonal manner. She got that scar after being struck by a blade belonging to Darkonda; if Ecliptor was not there to torture her for enemy intelligence, Darkonda would take his place and his methods are much crueler. Apart from whipping and slicing her back open, he'd even burn and electrocute her too. Other times, she would get phantom pains from them.
This is also why Kimberly is scared to be near Tommy; she is afraid that he will see her as a marked, tainted women, changed by the course of war. The Kimberly Tommy once knew is gone, she matured and is haunted by the horrors she faced. The Kimberly he knew is no longer the perky, yet shy girl but a hardened soldier; a leader. Kim could no longer look at these scars and quickly put on her sleeping top. The former Pink Ranger and war veteran laid in bed and let sleep take over her.
Eighteen Days Later…
3:15…
Monday…
12th August 2003…
Canon: Day of the Dino
(Nightmare/Scene: Interrogation and Torture Room, Dark Fortress, Space/Kimberly's POV)
I screamed out as the whip struck my back for I don't know how long. I don't know how many times I've been whipped; I lost count at this stage ever since my capture. The mission to save my father had been compromised, our enemies were waiting for us! Even though we found Zordon; myself, Aegis and Boreas walked right into a trap. Father told the three of us to go and he will be fine; Astronema has done no harm to him… yet anyways. Although, Astronema is the one of the few villains I feel sorry for. Her real name is Karone of KO-35 and is Andros'; the Red Astro Ranger, long lost sister and she was kidnapped when they were just children.
Anyhow, we sprung the trap! Ecliptor, Astronema and squadrons of Quantrons were waiting for us. The only way they could have prepared in advance was someone relayed the information to them. That means Eltar has a spy! After father told us to retreat; I willingly stayed behind to allow Boreas and Aegis escape and I surrendered. To aggravate my father; Ecliptor would force Zordon to watch. Other times, the footage of me being tortured would be recorded and sent to my mother. The final method they used was transmitting my torture live across the galaxy, but Earth! That latter was worse. I'm glad my torture footage was never transmitted to Earth… I couldn't imagine what Tommy would think, to see me being deliberately hurt; it would break him, yes; but not just him, all my friends too. Then they'll all storm NASADA HQ and demand a ship to take them to Eltar.
Snapping back to my current situation, I listened to the footsteps belonging to Ecliptor, as he circled me with the whip in hand. I can't tell what's worse, the normal leather whips or the electric ones. Other times, I get physically beaten until I'm left like a bloody mess. At least… I'm better off being the one tortured and not my cousin or my second uncle figure. If I'm honest with myself, I rather have Ecliptor torture me, instead of Darkonda. I bet mother is on a war path to rescue me. Hopefully, I pray to God and The Power that she comes up with something and fast, I don't know how much longer I can hold up. I grow weaker as the day goes by or drags for that matter and Rhea grows weak too; my Animal Spirit is fading. With our combined strengths, well what's left of it; Rhea and I put up a shield to block the pain I'm receiving so any of the other Ninjetti: Aisha, Rocky, Adam, Billy and Tommy especially won't feel it through our connection.
"Now." Ecliptor growled, "Tell me the counter measures you have in place!",
"Go to fucking Hell Ecliptor!" I spat. Next thing, I was back handed in the face; his metal fist connecting with my cheek. Astronema's bodyguard picked me up by the neck.
"What are Eltar's war plans!?" He asked again,
"I would rather die than tell you, you bastard!" Ecliptor dropped me on the floor like I was a rag doll and he kicked me in the ribs. I yelled out in pain; god damn it! My ribs are still healing. How have I managed to withstand this for so long, is beyond me. Or I'm too stubborn to fall so easily.
"You try my patience Eltarian. My princess and Dark Spectre are not the patient type." With that, Ecliptor got in one last strike with the whip as it cracked the air and then… I let the darkness take me.
(Nightmare Ends/Scene: Kimberly's and Aegis' Apartment, Apartment Block, City Centre Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
I woke up from my nightmare like bullet fired from a gun. Cold swear ran down my back; a nightmare. Why are they only happening now? Why not earlier on? Are the events before, during and after Countdown To Destruction finally catching up? I really didn't give myself time to recuperate from it; I was so busy stuck in with helping those affected by it. Damn, I was not only on Eltar, but Aria also deployed me to planets like Triforia, Mirinoi, Inquirius and even KO-35 itself. I never really talked how the war affected me. Just leave it! I'm over reacting and I have to get my classroom ready for Day One of school. According to my time table, I'm teaching Ninth up to Twelfth Grade, break time is fifteen minutes at quarter past ten and then lunch is fifty-five minutes, starting at twenty past twelve. Great, looks all teachers share the same lunch, might as well eat in my classroom to avoid Tommy. I have Twelfth Grade first period.
I turned over to look at my clock; it read 3:15. School starts at eight forty-five and I want to reach the school by at least seven or seven-thirty; even Aegis agreed. The two of us might as well get ready now and shower before Aegis hogs it! I'm dreading about running into Tommy, but I guess I'll have to face the music at some point. Perhaps Rhea is right, maybe fate does want the two us to get back together again. I'll just have to try and avoid him if I can; also pray his lunch times are different to mine. Pushing Tommy out of my mind, plus, I can't bring myself to sleep again; I got up out of bed to shower and also to boil up the kettle. Something tells me I'm going to be downing tea likes there's no tomorrow, because I hate coffee!
Four Hours Fifteen Minutes Later…
7:30…
(Scene: Classroom, Reefside High School, Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
Aegis and I went our separate ways once we arrived at the school. His classroom is located on one side of the school, while I'm on the other. I can thank my lucky stars that my second version of Jason Scott did not question to why I was up so early. If it was Jason, he would go all protective and interrogation mode, then go Terminator after that; if someone physically hurt me. I didn't really think about contacting my friends; I have just decided to keep a low profile for a while. I sat at my desk with everything sorted out; the list of student names for roll call was ready and I had the curriculum sorted and dates prepared for exams. I have also decided on throwing in a few pop quizzes too.
Once I felt everything was in order, I left the classroom; closing the door behind me to grab a fresh cup of tea to wake me up again. Plus, another dose of caffeine is not going to kill me.
One Hour Fifteen Minutes Later…
8:45…
I returned to my classroom after chatting to some of the teachers apart from my cousin Aegis. So far so good, no Tommy Oliver; I can sigh in relief for now. I ended up getting a few words by Principal Randall, but I'm sure she means well. Hm… I'm still getting a strange aura off of her. I pushed the thought out of my mind; right now, I have a class to teach. As I approached the door, I could hear the loud and rowdy Twelfth Grade students inside. I opened the door, my old ranger reflexes instantly kicking in as I caught a paper ball flying towards me. I threw the ball into the bin as I approached my desk.
The whole class suddenly went silent; a few of the young male students giving me not so subtle dreamy eyes. Oh they will be in for a rude awakening and I am not afraid to go into my Lieutenant Mode if the situation calls for it. The students sat back down in their respective seating arrangement. I walked over to my desk, pulling out a pen to do the roll call. First I had to introduce myself.
"Good morning class; this is first period History. My name is Doctor Hart and I'll be your teacher for this year. Any questions?" A hand shot up; belonging to blonde haired student. The student who sat beside looked to be a friend of hers. "Yes?" The student spoke.
"Cassidy. Cassidy Cornell." She greeted, completely ignoring the groans coming from class and I was seeing some sympathetic looks from the other students. I braced myself for this particular student. "Dr. Hart, as you may possibly know; I'm the anchor and field reporter for the TV station of this school." I had to fight an eye roll; does she not realise I have a class to teach? Not to be interviewed! Cassidy continued either way. "In a girl to girl kind of way; viewers are wondering: you don't look exactly old enough to be a high school teacher." I tried not glare the field reporter/student; is twenty-four not old enough for her!? She turned back to her side kick. "Devon! Are you getting this!?" I feel sorry for Devon. He jumped in an instant, bringing out his camera; which for some reason I thought would have been a weapon.
I sort of gripped my hand too hard, but to prevent me from going soldier mode. There was a low, silent groan from the desk as I slightly strained the wood in my grip. I seriously have to watch the enhanced Eltarian strength; even Aegis. However, I answered before he could even get the camera out.
"Cassidy, I promise you: I am old enough." I turned my attention to Devon. "Can we please put the camera away!" Devon obeyed and out the camera back; despite his friend's protest. Now, back to roll call. Cassidy and Devon are definitely here anyways; I ticked them both off. "Conor McKnight?" My eye catches a hand raised; a tall student with brown hair, dressed in red and had the build of a soccer player. "Kira Ford?",
"Right here!" A voice called out. I was faced with a dirty blonde hair teenager, wearing yellow, punk like clothing. I'm getting a Avril Lavigne vibe off from her. I take it she's a singer then.
"Ethan James?",
"Present Dr. H." He said. My eyes laid on a student dressed in blue; I'm getting a geek vibe off of him. Something tells me his intelligence could rival Billy's.
"It's pleasant to meet you too Mr James, but please refrain from abbreviations. I would appreciate it if you called me Dr. Hart." Ethan sank into his seat slightly.
"Sorry Dr. Hart. It won't happen again." I was satisfied with his answer, as I ticked the trios' names and continued with the rest of roll call. I feel this will be a long day. Once the roll was finished, I placed it in my file for reference. "Alright, let's get started. Open your textbooks to page four; chapter one. We're starting off with Ancient Civilisation: The Romans. Because it's the largest section; I'll break it up into two parts. Ancient Rome as its time as a Republic, then as an Empire. You all follow?" All the student nodded. "Good. So, the Roman Republic was founded in the Eighth Century BC; roughly five-hundred and nine BC. However, it had its flaws during that time, but it's military was still as great as we know of it." I lectured. I heard most of the students taking down what I was saying or just highlighting their textbooks. "It's because of the might, effectiveness and discipline of the Roman Military, the Roman Republic soon became the Roman Empire, we know about to this day."
Two Hours Later…
10:45…
(Scene: School Corridor, Reefside High School, Reefside, Earth/Kimberly's POV)
Well, classes went better than I expected; students at least paid attention to me this morning. I didn't have to force awake some sleepy heads. As I went up to head to the teacher's staff room for tea, I bumped into Principal Randall. What is it with this woman!? Why is she giving me suspicious looks? It's like she is analysing me. Day One of teaching in high school and she's already getting on my nerves. Despite this, I remained pleasant. If I'm not pushed too far off the edge; I am surprisingly slow to anger.
"Dr. Hart; how is your day so far?" She asked me. Looks like she's trying so hard to be nice, but she looks like she want to sneer at me all day.
"The kids are great. No trouble at all.",
"Yippee for you. Be thankful you are relieved of Detention Duty, as well as your cousin Mr. Callaghan. I handed that to Dr. Oliver." I held back a choke! Tommy has a Post Doctorate too! Have I stepped, into the Twilight Zone? Tommy with a PhD!? That's a surprise; also shows how much of his life I missed. I missed seven years, seven years, that's a frightening thought. "Ta ta Dr. Hart." Principal Randall walked off, probably to find her next set of victims for Detention. Yikes, maybe she did work in a prison. Rhea appeared beside me.
"I don't trust her Kara." She warned,
"Rhea, let's leave it. We're both being paranoid and let's enjoy our time as retired Rangers." Thank god the corridor is empty; all the students are outside for their twenty minute break.
"Once a Ranger, always a Ranger." Teased Rhea. I told my Crane Spirit to shut up as she chuckled; eight years stuck with her and she's still annoying. I can't wait for my first day to finish. I continued making my way to the staff room for tea and something light to eat. I have Ninth and Tenth Grade to teach after that; then it's Eleventh Grade last class. I hope Aegis is having a much better time and I'm guessing he's trying to dodge Randall too. Happy days; welcome to life as a high school teacher. Welcome to Reefside indeed.
That's the end of Chapter One. Please don't hate me for making Kim slightly flighty whenever Tommy shows up. Think about it: how would you feel if an old flame showed up out of the blue?
Yes; Kimberly has a PhD, not just Tommy. I promise you, their paths will cross and they will confront each other. Just not yet! I love messing with you fellow readers. Also, I decided to throw in my assumption about Hayley's connection with Zitkor Industries. My theory is that she is related to Karl Zitkor, but hey! That's just a theory, a film theory!
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Stay tuned for Chapter Two! Bye!