Disclaimer: I don't own Power Rangers. The rest is extempore, from my mother wit.
Knights of Zodiaca
Chapter 5
The Intermediate
Kwan Residence
Libran Business District, Air Realm
"Did she say where she was going?"
The symmen droid shook her head.
"Well, did she say how long she'd be gone?" the young woman asked again.
Again, the symmen droid said nothing, but shook her metallic head.
Trini groaned and threw up her hands in defeat. Mrs. Kwan entered the room and leaned against the doorway, watching her daughter pace.
Trini Kwan, a twenty four year old law student at Geminian University, studying Zodiacal Property and Ownership law under her father, Dr. Bao Kwan. She had been interning in her father's firm for the past four months, handling the casework for several recent incidents in Taurun Plains.
Her stress was suddenly doubled this afternoon when two aquabot security droids summoned her out of court, asking to meet with her at home. They had been given her name and address, as was the information Kimberly Hart had given them when the young Aquarian was questioned after the kidnapping of Izzy Selene, a squim from the Water realm.
"Anything?" asked Mrs. Kwan.
"Nothing! Not a single lead! NOTHING! I was called out of court because someone said they knew where my best friend was! THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!"
"Thank you, Shooter. You may leave," Mrs. Kwan instructed the droid.
The droid bowed and promptly saw herself out.
"First there's a Vultura attack, now Kimberly's missing..." Trini fumed as she stared at the floor.
"Honey, I'm sure Kimberly's fine. She's probably just out of reach," the older woman reasoned.
"Kimberly's flaky, but she's not irresponsible! THIS IS IRRESPONSIBLE!" Trini shouted, resuming her pace.
Mrs. Kwan started to speak but then thought better.
"You know she was talking about wanting to move out. On her own. I can't believe she would just leave and not say anything!"
"Trini, Kimberly wouldn't do that."
"You're right mom, she wouldn't. Which is why I think something's wrong," Trini said, checking her watch.
"I want to talk to dad. I need to get back to court. I can't do everything!"
Mrs. Kwan pulled her daughter into a tight embrace, rubbing her back. Trini sighed.
"You should take a break. You've been working yourself too hard. I hardly get to see you anymore," Mrs. Kwan said softly.
"I know mom, I know. This internship is sucking the life out of me," Trini mumbled.
"Well, talk to your father. I'm sure he can lighten your responsibilities," Mrs. Kwan suggested.
Trini furrowed her brow in frustration and rubbed her temples, collapsing into a chair.
Mrs. Kwan knelt down beside her daughter, smiling as she regarded the girl. Trini's large, dark eyes brimming with tears. She brushed her long ebony hair out her face and placed a kiss on her cheek.
"I know how much this job means to you, I really do. But if it's too much, you need to say something," the woman told her.
"It's not the job, mom. It's...it's Kim."
"I know you're worried, sweetie. But Shooter and Rosie said she wasn't the one those birds were after. I'm sure she's fine. Maybe she went to Cancer Island for a little vacation," Mrs. Kwan offered.
Trini rolled her eyes. "After a girl was taken right in front of her? Sure, mom."
Mrs. Kwan stood up and shrugged. "Just a thought. Not a bad idea, hon."
"Fine. I'll take a break and visit the Island. I didn't get to go with the girls during Spring break anyway," Trini groaned as she sat up.
"Good. I'll tell your father the change in plans. I think a nice retreat will do you good. You'll find Kimberly, and when you come back, you'll be rested and refreshed!" Mrs Kwan beamed, patting Trini's shoulder as she bustled out of the living room.
Trini shook her head and stood, collecting her briefcase and paperwork as she headed to her room to start packing a small overnight bag for her trip.
AN: A short chapter following a long one. So, we're given a brief introduction to Trini. What will happen when she visits Cancer Island? What or Who will she find there? And what has happened to everyone we've already met? Find out next time! Please read and review!