Our duo was already up when the Sun emerged from the darkness of the night. Maybe it was due to their excitement? Still, they went to greet their fellow Rangers and Pokemons, some of whom had trouble emerging.

- Already up Kellyn....? How do you do...? *yawn* Pachiiiiii~ I'll step on you if you don't get off my feet...!

Kellyn laughed seeing the vegetative state of his cousin and her partner who seemed to be more sleepwalking than awake. Even Keith had more neurons connected when he woke up! And only Arceus knew how much he hated mornings. The number of times he had ended his nights using the brunet's shoulders as a pillow...!

The boy quickly pushed the memory away, not wanting to start crying before the day had even begun.

- Nnnnngggg....What are we eating...?

It was Luana and her Lopunny's turn to appear, followed closely by the rest of the base. It took almost a full hour for breakfast to be swallowed and the whole team to be operational.

After that, all these beautiful people began to attend to various occupations. Some patrolled, others took care of their partner... Barlow was the one who ended up calling our duo.

- Kellyn? Starly? Can you come over here?

Both the brunet and the bird complied although the teenager's cheeks were puffy with annoyance.

-...Something is wrong? Did you get up on the wrong foot?

The boy shook his head before pointing at his screaming partner. He opened his mouth in an attempt to speak normally, except his voice instinctively blocked, forcing him to use his usual sign language.

- / By Arceus! Why do I have to have this damn selective mutism?!/

Kate, who had remained at the base, suddenly got up and ran to her quarters. This confused the rest of the team. When she returned, she was holding some kind of small tablet in her hand.

- Here, Kellyn, this is for you! I was planning to give it to you yesterday, but I completely forgot... It should help you make yourself understood!

The brunet took the device with delicacy and analyzed it from all angles. It was one of the famous tablets allowing those being mute to communicate! It's role was to vocalize what it's owner typed on it.

But, it must have been horribly expensive! The younger teen looked up at the cobalt-eyed one, a stunned and panicked look on his face.

- I know what you're thinking. Don't worry about the money! It's a gift, so don't ask questions, okay?

The teenager tilted his head, having mixed feelings about this answer, but decided not to go any further. He then took the device and began to lay down his thoughts on the screen. When he was done, the machine produced a strangely smooth and natural voice, shocking the boy who hadn't expected such a result.

- "Her name is Fischl. Can you call her like that from now on, please?"

The man looked surprised for a moment, but he laughed heartily right after.

- Haha! That's why you two were in such a bad mood! Ok, ok, I'll try to remember that!

Fischl puffed out her chest, satisfied with how events had unfolded.

- (You see! It's not that complicated!)

The brunet chuckled silently as Barlow cleared his throat, drawing the attention of the two friends.

- Humhum! Kellyn, Fischl. I have a mission for you two. Mr. Woodward has sent us a disturbing report regarding the Marine Cave on the beach. He says that he's hearing a weird noise coming from the cave in addition to the Pokemons behaving strangely....

The teen frowned and tensed as his partner seemed to wince at the information. The boy, having taken note of her reaction, decided to ask her about that later.

-...I guess you remember what happened on the beach during your 1 Day Internship? Well, that's our only lead on this incident. I want you to investigate this phenomenon and Crawford will accompany you.

The older Ranger got up from his chair and came to stand near the youngest.

- You can count on us, boss. We will only come back once this cave has been thoroughly inspected!

The teen nodded and repeated his famous military salute, which Fischl hastened to imitate.

- Don't put yourself in unnecessary danger, though! Well...Rangers. Beginning of the mission!

- Roger!

The trio then left the base and went to Nabiki Beach without losing a second. However, Kellyn slows the pace a bit, allowing his superior to outrun him. He then began to caress the bird's two-toned head while whispering to her in a low voice:

- Fischl? What is going on?

- (It's about the noise the leader talked about...I remember when you captured me, I had a sound that kept pulsing in my ears....It was very unpleasant and oppressive...)

The brunet kissed the bird's cheek to comfort her.

- It wasn't your fault, you know that. But honestly, that only makes me more worried...If the noise you heard that day is the same one that Mr. Woodward says he heard...

- (It may not look pretty.)

The teenager bit his lips thoughtfully. He was feeling like they hadn't even reached the tip of the iceberg yet, and that made him anxious as hell. What did Arceus have in store for them...?

- Kellyn? You're coming?

The boy jumped and quickly joined Crawford, who looked a little worried. So he gave him a smile, reassuring the adult who didn't ask any questions.

Soon they arrived at their destination.

- Here we are. The Marine Cave. Are you ready?

The duo nodded.

- Alright. So let's go!

And they entered the rocky cave. Immediately their hearing was assaulted by a loud and pulsating sound, causing Kellyn's partner to freeze.

- (K-Kell....That noise. It's the same! It's the one I heard the last time!)

The brunet stared at the Pokemon, surprised. His doubts were therefore confirmed. The afro-haired Ranger covered one ear, trying to muffle the volume a bit.

- By Arceus! What is that? It seems to come from the bottom of the cave....Oh! Look! The Pokemons...!

The boy looked in the direction the adult was pointing and saw a nightmarish sight. The cave's creatures were running in circle in unison, their expressions filled with pain while their pupils were so...empty. The teenager barely stopped himself from throwing up.

- / How awful! What's forcing them to do this....?/

Suddenly a Zubat stepped out of the circle and charged towards the group.

- Aaah!! Watch out!

The bat engaged in combat with the teenager who quickly took his Styler in hand. And this one quickly found himself in difficulty because the creature was much more aggressive and faster than the other Zubats.

As Kellyn was trying to find a tactic so he could capture the Zubat, he felt Fischl fly off his shoulder. He didn't have time to call her back that she attacked the Ranger's opponent with blades of wind.

- (Leave him alone, you brainless flying rat!)

The brunet would probably have laughed if they weren't in the middle of a capture. Regardless, he took advantage of his partner's action to catch the Zubat. Except once done, the creature immediately left, leaving the young Ranger confused.

- Are you ok kiddo?!

The teen nodded as the Flight-type landed on his shoulder again. She was also fine.

- Thank Arceus... But what was that? You captured that Zubat correctly though....It looked like your feelings never reached it! You think it's because of that damn noise?

- / According to Fischl it is. And I trust her completely./

- Let's try to get closer. Maybe we'll be able to find the source.

The trio therefore moved forward cautiously, carefully avoiding the Pokemons that royally ignored them. And it ends up paying since a mysterious machine looking like some kind of mailbox entered their field of vision.

- What the...? It's from this thing?

- (This thing is familiar to me....I think I've seen it before. But I don't know where...)

The brunet gently rubbed his nose against his friend in an attempt to reassure her. She was already doing so much trying to help him....!

- Ugh! It doesn't seem like it can be stopped like that! No choice, this machine must be destroyed. I heard the cry of a Gastrodon earlier...I sincerely hope it's not under the control of that thing.

The teenager didn't wait a second longer and went to search the bottom of the cave, looking for the water Pokemon and leaving his superior to watch the machine. During his little adventure he discovered that the mysterious machine only had a limited range, because the Pokemons in the deepest part of the cave were in no way affected.

- (Kell! Over There!)

The boy turned his head toward the direction the bird was pointing, and saw the creature he was looking for. He approached it cautiously, while triggering a new capture. At first, the slug was on guard and threatening to attack. Except that upon seeing the Ranger's sincere and gentle gaze he lowered his guard, allowing himself to be captured with ease.

- Thank you very much my friend. Thanks to you we can destroy the source of this nightmare....

- (It's obvious that it's Pokemons that taught you everything! You know how to communicate with us!)

The brunet blushed in embarrassment before a sad smile appeared on his face.

-...I have to do something right once in a while, no?

Fischl, immediately realizing what he was implying, got angry and began showering him with affection. She was rubbing against his face, chirping tenderly...

- (Don't try to tell yourself that kind of stuff anymore, do you hear me?!)

The teenager chuckled softly, seeming to perk up again.

- No promise, Fischl....

The young Starly didn't look completely convinced, but she stuck with it for now. Swearing to not let go of his partner once they returned home.

The duo, accompanied by the Gastrodon, rejoined Crawford, who was anxiously waiting for them.

- Ah, there you are! With the famous Gastrodon as a bonus! Perfect, now let's destroy this Devil's machine.

The boy nodded before guiding the slug towards the thing. It immediately understood what the Ranger expected of them, and released it's most powerful Hydro Pump right on the metallic device which exploded on the spot. Then Kellyn stroked the Pokemon's head and gave it a big smile to thank it. The latter gave the Ranger a soft headbutt before leaving.

Immediately after, the other creatures ceased their activity since the sound was no more. Some went away, others collapsed from fatigue after taking refuge in a corner... But all were happy to be free again.

- Good! Looks like we were right, this thing was indeed responsible for this mess...

The older Ranger approached the remnants, cautiously.

- We have to bring it back to the base for analysis...Come on, hop...!

He tried to lift the device but it was far too heavy for him. The youngest tried to give him a hand, however the oldest kindly refused.

- That's nice of you, kiddo, but I doubt we'll be able to get this thing moving even with the two of us. But but but! Don't worry though! I'm going to contact someone by Voicemail to give us a hand! This is the strongest person in Almia! A person capable of beating our leader at arm wrestling in 3 seconds flat!

The teen stared at the adult in curiosity and wondering who could be strong enough to surpass Barlow.

- I'll wait for this person here. Take this opportunity to return to base. You've had a busy day, and deserve a little rest.

The brunet pouted unconvinced, but he obeyed Crawford anyway. He waved at him before leaving the cave. The duo also had to take a moment to readapt their vision because of the blinding light of the Sun.

- (What do you think about what happened today, Kell?)

- I...I have a very bad feeling to be honest. I feel like something bad is about to happen...

- (You too? By Arceus...What did we get ourselves into?)

As the two were about to leave the beach, they met Big Bertha, Little Tim's wife.

- Oh? Hello again my child! You just completed a mission, right? Don't overwork yourself though.

The boy smiled and politely stepped aside, letting the woman pass.

- By the way, do you know why Crawford called me? He told me to meet him in the Marine Cave, but he gave me no explanation...

Both Kellyn and Fischl were amazed to realize that the person the older man was talking about earlier was this sweet but strong woman. The brunet then took his tablet in hand and quickly wrote a response.

- "We need help to transport a machine, but it's far too heavy for us....Can you help us, please?"

The farmer's wife let out a slight onomatopoeia before readjusting her clothes.

- I see... Thank you honey. I won't keep him waiting any longer then.

She gently ruffled the Ranger's hair and he stared at her in surprise.

- If you ever need to get away from your Ranger's activities, don't hesitate to come and visit us. Our door will always be open to you.

And she left. Leaving the teenager and his partner alone.

- (She has the maternal streak, huh?)

- She's the mother of a big family, I guess that's why.

- ( Most likely.)

Our duo quickly returned to the base, wanting to find the comfort of their cozy nest. Except they had to report first.

- Kellyn! Fischl! You're back!

As the brunet was about to begin the procedure, Barlow raised his hand to stop him.

- Crawford already notified me by Voicemail, so no report for today.

The one with teal eyes sighed in relief.

- So go and rest. You earned it.

- "Thank you very much, boss."

While our two friends were heading towards their room, they were approached by Elaine.

- Hey! Kellyn, look at this! Looks like your friend is already making a name for himself!

She handed him the newspaper she was holding, something he accepted without hesitation, and began to read the article about some incidents in Fiore.

- / "Keith, the new hero!"....Aww....~ You work hard, huh Scarlet?/

Kellyn couldn't help but smile like an idiot when he saw the somewhat blurry photo representing his friend. He was missing him so much...!

- Ah, and also, a letter in your name arrived this morning. Kate left it in your room.

The teen blinked in confusion, but thanked the young Mechanic anyway. He then gave her back her newspaper and went to lock himself in his room. Once inside, Fischl went straight to laying into the nest, sighing in relief.

This gesture made the boy smile, before taking a more comfortable outfit and entering the bathroom. 20 minutes later, he came out fresh and above all much more relaxed. Then he sat inside the pile of fabrics while gently rubbing his hair with a towel.

- (You look better, Kell!)

- A good shower is always welcomed...~ Do you want one?

- (Just give me some water and I'll manage!)

The brunet decided not to completely listen to her since he took his partner in his arms before going back to the bathroom. Another 15 minutes passed before the two reappeared, one with a big smile on his face and the other one wrapped in a towel.

- (You didn't need to do that much, you know?)

- I know. But, it was my pleasure to be able to help you relax!

- (Hmph...Thanks Kell. I really appreciate it.)

She rubbed her beak against her partner who chuckled before starting to gently dry her feathers. Once done, he put the towels in a basket and stopped in front of his desk.

- Oh yes it's true. I received a letter. From who? My parents? They live next door...

He took the envelope and sat next to Fischl before taking out the contents. There were two things inside; the letter and a photo. When the boy took the latter to observe it, he felt his heart racing.

- K-Keith...?

Indeed, the image was representing the redhead wearing his uniform in medium close up, with his eyes closed, grinning, beaming and striking a pose. On his shoulder was a Buizel that the boy recognized as one of the Pokémon he had seen in the newspaper. His partner, no doubt.

-....Beautiful...

Fischl, who was perched on the boy's shoulder, leaned over so that she, too, could see the famous image.

- (Oh? That's not your sworn brother?)

The brunette looked at her, confused.

- Sworn brother?

- ( This is a term that we, Pokemons use regularly to refer to 2 or more individuals who have sworn loyalty to each other. Swearing to never let each other down, to always be there for each other, to share happiness as much as misfortune .... That's a sworn brother.)

-...Oh.

The boy stared at the image again before releasing a dreamy smile.

- /...Two beings linked for better and for worse, huh? I wonder....Is this relationship right for you, Keith?/

Kellyn chuckled softly, relieved. He then took the letter and began to read it.

- "Heya Kell! I told you I would make it! Even if I have to admit that I had trouble sending this thing! Didn't think the Pelippers were so lazy around here...Anyway! Let's not talk about any annoying subjects...As you can see, I have a Partner! A Buizel that I rescued near Summerland this morning. And since then, he won't let go of me! Haha! Otherwise, what's more? Ah! I got to know the Rangers at my base! They are all very nice and cool! Although to be honest, there is one that gives me the creeps...Even the others don't really know what to think of her. She's more of a...Troublemaker type. Her name is Anna, if I remember correctly? Personally, I don't like her very much. Too clingy and weird for my taste. She's without a doubt nice but...I don't feel comfortable around her. But don't worry! Everything is under control. Everything is fine. And you? How are you? Wanna know! Your friend, Keith Dazzle"

The brunet, who until then had been smiling, took on a worried look. This "Anna" wasn't giving him a good feeling. He didn't know why, but he felt his heart grow heavy at the mention of her name...Even anxious. But because of what?

The teenager sighed, dismissing the unwanted thought, before sitting down at his desk to write a reply.

- "Hey Keith. First of all, I want to thank you for keeping your promise. Not that I didn't trust you! It's just that you must be really busy with your new responsibilities...And that really touche me to know that you took the time to write to me. I received your photo too, by the way! You seem very happy with your new friends. And that's good! Even if this "Anna" worries me a bit, I trust you. Otherwise...I have a new Partner too! You already know her, it's Starly! Although her name is Fischl now. You know who my new comrades are, so no need for description I think, hehe! By the way, it looks like you're starting to have a nice little reputation! "Keith, the new hero!". That's the name of the Almia Times article talking about Fiore. Didn't I tell you that you'd be a great Ranger? Keep it up! But...Don't try anything too reckless, okay? Your worried sick friend, Kellyn Gungnir"

The boy, looking pleased with his letter, decided to get an envelope so he could send his response to the redhead. He left his room, followed by the bird Pokémon which landed on her favorite spot. Kellyn then went to the purple-haired Operator's desk and thanked her when she gave him a bunch of blank envelopes.

- (She is very nice! Do you think she understood that you are in correspondence?)

The teal-eyed one shrugged, unsure. His gaze was suddenly caught by a flash, surprising him, as well as the bird. Upon turning, they saw Kate taking pictures of her partner posing like he was doing it since birth. Sensing the gazes on her, the young Ranger faced the two "intruders".

- Oh! It's you Kell!

The teen only waved at her, embarrassed to have been caught.

- Don't worry. I don't care if there's anyone watching us! It's even rather flattering.

She laughed heartily, making her cousin relax and he smiled at her.

- Anyway...~ What is that?

The chestnut-haired girl pointed toward the boy's load, which he set down on the table next to the squirrel before grabbing his tablet.

- "Envelopes. Remember Keith? Well, we managed to keep in touch! So we're in correspondence now."

The expression of the one with cobalt eyes changed for a second. But it was way too fast for the brunet to see. Was it... Jealousy? Still, she returned to her usual enthusiasm-self.

-...I see. Good for the both of you! Above all, don't lose sight of each other.

The youngest gave her a big smile before staring at his means of communication for a moment.

- "...Hey? Can I ask you something?"

- Hmm? Of course. What's the matter?

The teen's cheeks flushed slightly, showing his shyness and embarrassment.

- "...You...Can you take a picture of us? Fischl and me?"

The girl gasped in surprise.

- H-Huh? Huh, no problem! But why? You're not the type to enjoy being photographed.

- "It's just that...Keith sent me a picture of him and his partner with his letter...And um...I wish to return the favor."

The chestnuthead seemed to think for 2 seconds before grinning.

- Okay! I accept! It will also allow me to train on human subjects at the same time. Come on, sit down and strike any pose you want.

While she was adjusting her camera, the brunet went to sit on one of the available chairs and put his things aside. Fischl, understanding the importance of this photo to her partner, placed herself on his knees. She didn't want his face to be hidden by her feathers. The boy scratched the top of her head before wrapping his left arm around her protectively. He fiddled with his pendant to calm himself down, leaving it visible for all to see.

- Yosh~ Are you ready?

Kellyn took a deep breath before closing his eyes and smiling sincerely. He made the victory sign with his free hand, his bracelet shining proudly in the light.

- Come on...1, 2, 3 Cheese!

Luckily the boy had his eyes closed! Otherwise, he most likely would have ended up blind from the flash.

- Aaaaaaannnnddd it's done! You can stop now.

The pair let go of their pose, finally breathing again. The brunet got up and gathered his things while Kate took care of finishing printing the famous image.

- Here, and no need to thank me! It was a pleasure. Do you think you can be my model next time?

Kellyn laughed nervously, not sure if she was joking or not. He thanked her anyway, took the picture and went to his room.

- (You see, it was not so terrible!)

- Easy for you...

The bird laughed at the top of her lungs, amused by her partner's shyness. Said partner who ignored her as best he could in order to finish his letter. Looking at the image, he was surprised to see himself. He seemed so... different.

-...Is that me?

- (Why wouldn't it be? You're cute on it.)

- C-Cute...?...!

The Ranger blushed furiously thanks to Fischl's compliment, who continued to tease him gently. He really wasn't used to that kind of compliment. In any case, he would go and give his response to the Pelippers in the afternoon, hoping that they weren't as lazy as their counterparts in Fiore...

--------------------

The group: *seeing a Gigaremo for the first time*

Kellyn: It looks like some kind of strange-shaped mailbox...?

Fischl: Did mailboxes always have been THAT noisy?

--------------

Fischl: Oh? Seems like Keith sent you a letter and a photo! How thoughtful of him!

Kellyn: *Gay panic Intensified upon seeing said letter and photo*