*9 years later*
Amaris' POV
Ever since the day I first transformed, something shifted inside me. Not just in the magical-gem-unlocks-hidden-dino-power sense—though yes, that part too, but in something deeper. I felt... purpose. There was something about the way the Ankylosaurus Morpher hummed against my skin, the way it responded to my touch like it had always been meant for me. The bow, my weapon of choice, came naturally. Each day I trained, I grew sharper. My arrows never missed—each bullseye another quiet affirmation.
I turned seventeen recently. Time passed quickly in the quiet sanctuary of the Shin estate. My life had fallen into a gentle rhythm, full of comfort and routine. Every morning, I trained with the bow, sometimes out in the garden, other times in the training hall my father had built for me. I studied the art of precision, posture, and breathing. And, as always, I spoke with a voice that wasn't quite mine—always formal, always polite, even when I meant to be casual.
Tonight, like many others, we were gathered in the dining room. The evening sun filtered through the tall windows, casting soft golden hues across the polished floor. The aroma of grilled fish, steamed vegetables, and seasoned rice filled the air. My mother poured tea into her delicate porcelain cup while my father sat across from me, his usual composed presence radiating something more... expectant.
"Amaris," my father said, gently setting down his chopsticks. "May I have your attention for a moment?"
I lifted my gaze from my plate. "Yes, Father?"
He smiled. It wasn't his usual soft smile—it was broader, a bit too cheerful for comfort. I narrowed my eyes slightly. My instincts tingled.
"You've spent your entire life within the estate, haven't you?"
I nodded. "That is correct."
It was true. I loved it here. The quiet harmony of the gardens, the serenity of tea with my parents, reading in the sunroom, late-night swims in the indoor pool, movie nights in our private theater... This was my world. A peaceful, curated world.
He continued, and I already knew where this was going.
"So, your mother and I have come to a decision. We're enrolling you in school."
The chopsticks slipped from my fingers.
"...I beg your pardon?"
My father's smile widened. "A proper school, dear. With other students. Classrooms. Activities. Socialization."
I stared at him, betrayed. My world, my sanctuary—it was unraveling.
In my past life, as Mark, this would've been exciting. Mark thrived in noise and chaos. But that was a lifetime ago. Amaris Shin had grown into someone else. Someone who found joy in quietude.
"May I ask why this decision was made, Father?"
He glanced toward Mother, who dabbed her lips delicately with a napkin. "We realized we've been rather overprotective."
Mother added, her tone soft, "And, dear... you don't have friends."
I gasped. Internally. On the outside, I simply offered a silent, wounded look.
"I am content, Mother. Truly."
"But we want more for you than contentment," Mother said.
My gaze pleaded with both of them. I can learn everything here. I have been. I have access to the best instructors, every resource I could ever want. Why ruin it by thrusting me into a swarm of noisy teenagers?
For a moment, I thought I had them. My father leaned back, fingers steepled in contemplation. My mother reached for my hand.
Then Father cleared his throat. "In one week, you will begin."
And just like that, my fate was sealed.
"Understood," I said. A polite 'okay' disguised in formal obedience.
Dinner resumed, but my appetite had vanished. My mind swirled with dread. Still, I maintained my composure. After all, I had responsibilities.
As was customary, I followed Father to his office afterward to assist with company affairs. I reviewed reports, helped with correspondence, and gave input where appropriate. My strategic mind—sharpened by two lifetimes, had proven useful.
Once done, I joined Mother in her atelier. She beamed when I arrived. Today, she wanted to fit one of her newest designs on me. As her model, I stood still as she adjusted fabric, checked seams, and added delicate embellishments. Despite my earlier frustrations, I found comfort in her presence. The gentleness of her hands. Her proud smile.
After our session, I finally retreated to my bedroom. Normally, I'd lose myself in a book, but not tonight. Instead, I flopped onto the sofa and turned on the television.
The news was on.
My eyes widened.
The screen showed a massive creature towering over a city block—scaly, armored, monstrous. Then came the unmistakable flash of color. Red, blue, and yellow. Rangers.
A reporter was speaking rapidly: "...unidentified team seen engaging the creature. Citizens are calling them the new Power Rangers..."
I sighed. "So... they've awakened."
The Dino Thunder team. It had begun.
I stood and walked to the window, pulling aside the curtain just slightly. The night air was still. The stars overhead blinked softly. Somewhere out there, my fellow Rangers were beginning their journey.
But I–I wasn't ready to reveal myself yet.
The Violet Ranger would wait.
Quiet. Watching. Preparing.
Until she was needed.