Chapter 1: Youth
Youth
Takes place during "Hogday Afternoon Part II"
A ten-year-old Adam Park couldn't believe the words coming out of his friend's mouth: she was going to stay in Africa. And some girl named Tanya was going to take her place. But nobody could replace Aisha in Adam's heart.
"I'm not going to say good-bye you guys," Adam heard Aisha say through the viewing globe. "I love you, and being a part of you has meant everything to me."
The vivacious, bubbly and beautiful girl he had grown up was now leaving his life. Aisha was one of his only friends who could get him overcome his shy side. She even helped him get the guts to ask out his eventual first girlfriend, Angel Grove High volleyball star Sarah Diaz. Aisha was his homeroom buddy, his work-out partner and the girl he told all his secrets to. She was even his first-kiss back in kindergarten. They had gone to school almost everyday together for 17 years. Now Adam would most likely never see his childhood friend again.
"I'm going to miss her," whispered a young Katherine.
Adam's heart never felt so heavy. He shot a look at Rocky, who looked downtrodden as he watched his ex-girlfriend fade from view. Only just recently at the carnival on Kat's birthday, Rocky had confessed to Adam that he wanted to get back together with Aisha. Now the romantic fire between the former red and yellow rangers was definitely extinguished.
And then Aisha was gone from sight. Adam blinked back tears.
"We must all be strong and welcome Tanya with open arms," proclaimed Zordon. "This is a very brave thing she has done."
Adam knew Zordon was right. Besides, friendliness and kindness to others was one of the traits Aisha had taught Adam. Aisha wouldn't have picked just anyone to bring back her piece of the Zeo Crystal. She clearly trusted Tanya both as a member of the Power team and as a friend. Therefore Adam knew he would do his best to welcome Tanya with open arms.
Besides, Tanya was actually rather cute… for a ten-year-old.
