Dark black clouds associated with whistling wind... Such was the landscape that Kellyn saw when he got outside. While he was grateful for the breath of fresh air, it didn't help the pressure comfortably settled in his insides.

- {It's even worse than I imagined!}

- "That, I can't contradict you..."

The Buizel looked around, his tails whipping the air nervously. But how could you blame him? The brunet knew he couldn't.

However, what caught their attention was the gigantic crystal in the center of the floor. Deep black with purple hues, it gave off a disturbing and intimidating aura. An aura sticking perfectly with the man in front of it.

The latter, upon sensing the presence of the duo, turned towards them, a calm smile on his lips.

- I see that we have visitors, and a Top Ranger on top of that! May you forgive me, I have no business card to give you. But I guess that an oral introduction is enough.

The man cleared his throat before approaching the group and introducing himself professionally.

- My name is Blake Hall, and I am the third president of this illustrious company that is Altru Inc. I am honored to be able to meet you, Ranger. I have hoped with all my heart that you could witness, front row, the power of Altru's gift to Almia!

The teenager instinctively took a step back, legitimately frightened. Was it due to the nature of this "gift"? The fact that the president described it as BEING a gift? Or that disturbing smile on the adult's face?

Who knows. Even so, this man completely terrified him.

- "A-A gift? This crystal is not a gift, but a poison!"

The brunet cursed his tendency to sputter even in writing, as he felt he wasn't going to be taken seriously.

- By all the Legendaries, it looks like we gave you the wrong impression! Although I don't blame you for that...Misinterpretation. The test phases were somewhat chaotic, let's face it. May you forgive our lack of organization and professionalism!

Altru's president bowed apologetically, still smiling, before heading to what appeared to be the Incredible Machine's control panel. Meanwhile, the teenager was short of breath.

It was not possible....! There was no way this...Walking nightmare could have a good side! All it was able to do was hurt the Pokemons under it's sway!

- Oh oh! That's perfect! A dark Pokemon from Hippodown Temple...I hope this demonstration will convince you, Ranger.

- /...What?/

Mr Hall thus activated the machine which made an infernal din. The Shadow Crystal emitted a powerful but controlled aura, showing that the adult knew what he was doing. A few seconds later, a cry rang out: a Dusknoir's.

The Ghost-Type creature "landed" with a majesty and elegance far too perfect to be natural. When it's eyes met Kellyn's, the latter lost his balance and fell to the ground, his hands covering his mouth.

- / No...No no no nononononono/

- [ OBEY OBEY OBEY Hurts.....OBEY OBEY Stop...! OBEY]

The young boy hastily stood up and hurried towards the Pokemon, almost stumbling in the process. He gently placed his hands on the cheeks of the Dusknoir who did not flinch upon contact. This realization brought tears to the corners of the human's eyes.

- / Sweet Arceus, what did they do to you...?/

The Ghost-Type obviously didn't respond, except that you could see immense pain in it's pupils. Pain that the brunet felt in the deepest part of his being, and that he turned into rage.

- "Do you realize what you are doing?!"

The young Ranger turned toward the culprit, eyes filled with new fury. The said culprit ignored it, and simply shrugged his shoulders.

- For many years, we have had problems with oil shortages. It was to be expected, because this resource is not eternal....Since then, solutions have begun to be sought. It was there that one appeared to me in the person of this magnificent crystal!

The man opened his arms wide to the sky, as if to simulate that the artifact was a gift from Arceus themself. Except that it was very likely that the Alpha Pokemon despised or at least didn't appreciate the artifact in question.

- Pokemons....Such powerful creatures....! Some can power the power stations, others the dams... Or even be perfect soldiers. Imagine! If used correctly, they become an eternal source of energy!

As the adult's tirade went on, the younger one grew more and more furious. His body was shaking with adrenaline and anger pulsing through his veins.

- "...Excuse me? Eternal energy? Are you crazy?! Pokemons are living beings! Not objects!"

He slammed his foot hard on the ground, causing the president to raise an eyebrow.

- "Don't you see how much they are suffering?! This "gift" as you're saying so well is only poison for them! It only causes them immense pain....And all for what? So that us, humans, don't run out of energy?!"

The teenager felt the tears start to flow, but he didn't care at all because the tears were from rage. Even so, he got into a fighting stance in front of the Dusknoir, protecting it from Team Dim Sun's boss. Sapphire soon joins him, also ready for battle.

- "I will not allow it! Pokemons are beings with their own emotions, will and memories, like us! There is no way I can let you use them as soulless generators!"

The person responsible for all this nightmare remained silent, thoughtful. He took a long look at the young Ranger and more particularly the teal pupils.

-...That look....It's familiar to me.

This statement somewhat destabilized the brunet who had a slight movement of recoil. However, that didn't stop him from sticking to his guns, refusing to let go. The man chuckled.

- Haha....Exactly like this person....Well, whatever. You can go, Dusknoir.

Mr. Hall simply waved his hand, and the Ghost-Type obeyed, flying off again, but this time to the place it called "Home".

Kellyn watched them go, his heart heavy, however, that didn't distract him. He had promised to make things right, and that was what he was going to do! Hoping his body wouldn't give up on him in the meantime.

- I see that it's going to take a little more to convince you, Ranger. That's alright, some customers need more... Persuasion.

The man walked back to the control panel again, looking thoughtful, when he was suddenly shot through with a flash of genius.

- Oh, of course! How about meeting the one who made it all possible? I'm sure you'll get along great!

The Buizel, who was already on his guard, hissed wildly, startling his partner.

- { Get ready! HE is coming!}

Understanding what or rather WHO he was talking about, the 11th Top Ranger got back into a fighting position. He really hoped to avoid the confrontation, except that deep down he knew that would be impossible.

During this time, the adult recited some kind of chant, as if making a summoning.

- The Pokemon from the dark, the one who merged with the Darkness! Come to us, my Darkrai!

The ground shook for the umpteenth time, although this time it was more....Located? It wasn't the whole tower that was shaking, but rather one floor in particular. Suddenly, a large sheet of deep black formed at the feet of the president of Altru.

Upon seeing it, the Union group instinctively jumped back, easily guessing the danger it posed.

Slowly but surely, a shadowy figure came out of this kind of black hole: Darkrai. When the Pokemon opened his eyes, the duo was able to realize the power of the Incredible Machine.

His pupils, which should ordinarily be a peaceful blue, were covered with an indescribable veil, giving him the look of a soulless hunter.

- { Oh sweet Arceus...! This motherfucker really did it! Kellyn! We have to do something!}

......Badump, badump, badump, badump

- {...Kellyn? Kellyn! What's happening?!}

Badump, badump, badumbadump

- [ It hurts! I want to go home! OBEY. Mom...! STOP! OBEY. Cold...! Help! HOUSE....OBEY. Someone....! OBEY. OBEY. OBEY.]

Badump, badumbadumbadump

...Voices. So many voices. He was hearing them. They were suffering. They were in so much pain... Their pain pierced his head and heart like countless sharp blades.

Kellyn barely felt the tears beginning to cascade abundantly down his cheeks, because he was overwhelmed by this new suffering. He also collapsed on the ground, his hands pressed against his ears.

Looking up, the brunet saw Darkrai staring at him, his irises practically hiding the pain he felt.

badumbadumbadumbadump

- ~....Help them....Save them....~

The tears redoubled in intensity as the young Ranger instinctively reached out for the Pokemon. His trance was broken when a laugh rang out, causing him to focus his attention on the culprit.

- Haha! You even have HER reactions! Who would've known?

While the adult quieted his laughter, the teenager tilted his head in confusion.

- /....Who are you talking about....?/

He then felt a tail made of fur gently caress one of his drenched cheeks, making him focus on it's owner, who was once again perched on his shoulders.

- { Eh....Shhh...Calm down, everything is fine. I know it hurts. I also hear them through Darkrai...But, you are not alone. I'm here...I'm with you...}

The Buizel's movements were rhythmic and steady, desperately trying to calm the young boy down. His ebony pupils reflected a concern as well as an extreme sweetness, and it touched the brunet greatly.

- /....Sapphire..../

- { So don't worry. We will save them TOGETHER.}

....Yes. He was right. Acknowledging their pain was one thing. But accepting it and saving them was another one. And the duty of the Rangers was to protect Pokemons, right?

The teen then felt his mind begin to slowly clear as the otter reassured him. The tears dried, giving way to a gaze filled with determination, as the younger boy stood up, causing a victory cry from the Water-Type.

The boy planted his teal pupils straight into Darkrai's, who still hadn't made a move.

- / Darkrai....I feel your pain as well as that of all the Pokemons in Almia. My heart cries for you....But don't worry. It's almost over, I swear. Just....Hold on for a few more minutes..../

Kellyn took a deep breath then quickly drew his Styler, ready for battle. Meanwhile, the president of Altru stared at the duo, his expression indecipherable.

- Well...It doesn't seem to convince you either. How about a little demonstration, then?

The adult raised his hand, causing the group to stiffen as well as the Pokemon under his control.

- Darkrai. Show him the extent of your powers. Use Dark Aura!

The creature uttered a hoarse and powerful cry, while raising his arms to the sky. If at first nothing happened, very quickly a black hole began to form at the brunet's feet.

When the latter realized this, a silent scream escaped from his throat. By reflex he tried to extricate himself from there, except that it was already far too late. The teenager felt the mass of darkness pulling him down, and he couldn't do anything to change the turn of events.

Noticing the Buizel still on his shoulder, the younger one panicked. He couldn't let him get swallowed too! Gulping nervously, he made a decision.

- /....Sorry, my dear./

The young Ranger suddenly grabbed the creature who emitted a complaint, surprised, and didn't give him the time to understand what was happening that he threw him with all his strength out of the hole.

The otter landed hard, and unsightly, on the ground while growling slightly in pain. He recovered quickly, however.

- { Ugh...! KELLYN!!}

Standing up, the Pokemon rushed towards his partner, only to be stopped by the force emanating from the Dark Aura.

Sapphire then focused on the Nightmare Pokemon, charging the most powerful Hydro Pump of his life before firing it at the Legendary who hardly flinched. He had to destabilize him! If only a little...! So that Kellyn can escape...!

- { Kellyn! Kellyn!! H-Hang on!}

Run. You can't escape me! Leave him alone! Hide yourself. Die! I am your opponent! Everything will be alright. Go away! How dare you...?! It's an oath.

- / G-Go away! It hurts! Hurthurthurthurthurthurthurthurt/

The boy's head had gone into an intense boiling state, causing him great suffering. Unknown images flashed before his eyes, making him want to scream until he lose his voice.

Except that it will never be heard, because there was no air. He couldn't breathe anymore. Because of this, his vision began to turn black alongside his consciousness.

Was that how it was going to end...? Trapped in an eternal nightmare...?....Pathetic...

-KELLYN!!!!

Suddenly, something or rather someone snatched him out of the darkness. Instantly, the cold air whipped his face violently causing his lungs to attempt to get the precious oxygen. Except that he's just hyperventilating because he was panicking.

- Hey...! Shhh....It's okay Kell. Shh...Breathe....I got you. I got you....

...This warmth, this strength...This voice....!

- <...Keith...?>

Wow....Seems like he was panicking so much that he instinctively re-communicated in sign language.

- It's me. Hey...Look at me, will you?

The redhead's voice sounded so... Distant. Despite this, the boy complied anyway. He painfully opened his eye that he had closed during his panic and then...

- /...What the...?!/

...Blurry. He was seeing blurry. Immediately, the panic started again, his breath jerking suddenly. No...! Nononononono-

- Kellyn! Calm down, everything is fine! I'm here...Tell me, what do you see?

- < Colors...!>

- Colors? Nothing else?

The brunet shook his head brutally, to the point that his comrade was afraid that he would get a stiff neck. A moment of silence passed before the redhead took one of the youngest's hands and placed it against his heart.

- Kell....I need you to listen to me. Panicking won't help you. You have to breathe. We're both gonna do it, okay? Follow my rhythm...

The 12th Top Ranger then took a slow, deep breath, making sure his partner felt the movements. This one tried somehow to copy the rhythm at the beginning, then, very slowly, his breath matched the older one's and his mind calmed down.

His vision returned little by little, colors becoming simple forms, then detailed. Just as the sounds around managed to reach his ears again, making him notice that they were in the air.

- Feeling better?

- "...Yeah. Thank you Sunrise."

He saw his boyfriend give him his characteristic big smile before hugging him tightly. Oh he missed him so much...!

- (Little Amethyst?)

The Staraptor's voice echoed inside the boy's head, making him smile wildly.

- / Fischl!/

- (Haha! Glad to see you too!)

A weight lifted from Kellyn's shoulders, as some of the pressure came down. They were fine...! They were fine....

- I'd really like to tell you about our little...Misadventure, but there is an emergency.

The crimson pupils stared with anger at the president of Altru, while squeezing the youngest against him. The latter understood immediately: Operation Brighton was still not over.

-...Stay with Fischl and go join Sven and Wendy together. I take over down here.

The one with teal eyes blinked, surprised, before answering without hesitation:

- "There is no need to. I can manage. Besides... You're badly hurt. It's not safe for you to fight."

The other frowned, biting his lips. It was true that bruises and hematomas of all kinds were covering his body. Some of his scratches were also bleeding...

Upon seeing the redhead's expression, the younger boy softened.

- "Don't worry. I can continue the fight. And forgive me for slipping. I would have preferred that you wouldn't see me in such....Unflattering state."

The older one stared at the teen for a long moment, making the latter somewhat anxious, before letting out a long sigh.

-....All right. But be careful, okay? If it ever smells like trouble, run.

- "Promise."

The redhead nodded at his partner who returned the affection with a smile. It was obvious that he didn't want to let go of the brunet, except that they still had a mission to accomplish.

It was therefore with regret that Keith asked the Flying-Type to join the dry land. The latter complied despite her clear lack of will.

When they found themselves just above the ground, Sapphire approached them at full speed, then jumped on the 2 humans, his gaze divided between concern and relief.

- {Oh thank Arceus, you're all fine!}

- Glad to see you too, Sapph.

The oldest scratched the Buizel's neck lightly, causing a soft purr, as Kellyn descended from the Staraptor. He then handed the Yellow Gem to his boyfriend who held it against his chest.

- "Don't be reckless up there, okay?"

- Roger. And you Sapph... Take care of him, ok?

- { Count on me, great clumsy oaf!}

While Keith was chatting with his partner, the brunet, meanwhile, had hugged his feathered beast. This one let him do as he wished while chirping happily.

- / I'm so glad to know that you're okay! You and Keith scared me to Death when you fell..../

- (Sorry we took so long, Kell. We had a... Somewhat difficult awakening. Don't worry, we'll tell you after it's over.)

- / Humhum.../

The boy absentmindedly brushed one of the wounds across the bird's body, careful not to hurt her further. He clearly didn't want to go back to this hellhole, but he couldn't let the other pair fight...Especially not in this state.

Upon sensing his state of anxiety, the bird hastened to rub her head against his partner's chest.

- (Eh...It's going to be fine little Amethyst. You can do it, we believe in you. Believe in yourself as you believe in us, and everything will be fine.)

The teal-eyed one gasped slightly before lightly tightening his grip on Fischl, who said nothing. She knew he needed it. Finally, he let go of her, not without regret, then found himself with the young Buizel again on his shoulders.

-...I'll see you later?

- "...Yeah. Good luck."

- Good luck to you too.

The Staraptor then began to slowly gain altitude, careful not to be treacherously attacked. Seeing that soon, they would no longer be within reach, the redhead caught the attention of his comrade with a wave of his hand.

The latter stared at him, an eyebrow raised and confused until the older boy slowly started gesturing with his hands. Realizing that he was trying to speak sign language, Kellyn became curious.

- <...I....Love...You.>

The young Ranger felt his cheeks heat up. Had Keith really tried to learn this language for him? Aw...~ How sweet of him!

The teenager let a silly smile appear before responding gesture for gesture:

- <I love you too.>

The 12th Top Ranger's face lit up instantly, and he didn't even try to fight the euphoric smile that was on his lips.

The duo then flew away, leaving Kellyn and Sapphire at the top of the Altru Tower. Almost immediately, a burst of laughter echoed out, effectively catching the attention of the remaining duo.

- Oh...! Love sure is beautiful!

The adult sneered as if the situation was particularly amusing, and this embarrassed the boy while angering him. How dare he...?!

The teenager clenched his fist violently, nearly making it bleed in the process, while biting his lips furiously. He had to stay calm and not fall for this obvious trap...!

- { Tss! It's obvious that the only people who loved him were his parents!}

...Sweet Mew, he shouldn't laugh at such cruelty.

- Well, let's move on. I didn't expect that boy to save you from Darkrai...It's alright though. You have yet to witness his full potential.

The adult walked over to the control panel again, making Kellyn anxious for a moment. What was he going to do this time?

- You know. The Incredible Machine doesn't have only 3 levels... A 4th exists: the Dark level.

The teenager felt himself turning white as a sheet. How come there was a 4th level?!

- { Another hidden function?! Seriously, how many things are missing from these damn blueprints?!}

The point was his....

- M-Mr President! You know as well as I that it's not operational! W-We don't know what can happen!

Ah. Here's the voice of reason- Wait a minute. Where was this voice coming from?

- Wheeler, my dear....Are you questioning my words?

Despite the Altru president's friendly tone, his right-hand man froze, looking completely terrified....Welp. It seems that the young Ranger has forgotten the existence of this man. Bah, it was not important.

What was, however, were his comments regarding the instability of the Dark level. And that didn't but really didn't reassure the boy at all, nor his partner for that matter.

- N-No, not at all Sir!

- Good. Now Ranger... This will be my last demonstration. May it be to your liking!

Realizing what that meant, the brunet tried to intercept the man, except that a Shadow Ball, gift from Darkrai, prevented him from doing so.

- ~ No interruptions...~

- /Darkrai..../

The teenager reached out his hand slightly towards the Pokemon, his gaze filled with sadness and empathy. He felt how much the Legendary was suffering, and felt deeply guilty.

He snapped out of his trance when the ground began to shake violently.

- /O-Oh no!/

...It was too late. The Dark level had just started.

Immediately a huge peak of pain pierced the heart of Kellyn who fell to his knees while holding his chest.

- {K-Kellyn! W-What's wrong?!}

The youngest didn't answer him, contenting himself with squeezing the flesh lying just above his cardiac muscle while closing his eyes abruptly.

- [ H-Help! OBEY. H-Hurt....! OBEY. Mama- OBEY!! OBEY! OBEY.....DESTROY. DESTROY. DESTROY. DESTROYDESTROYEDESTROYEDESTROY]

Pain. That was all the 11th Top Ranger was feeling right now. A throbbing and growing pain coming from all Almia...!

When he finally had the strength to open his eyes, he noticed he was crying but ignored it. These tears represented the suffering of all Pokemons fallen under the Incredible Machine's yoke. And he was going to use them to move forward and end this nightmare once and for all!

- Well! Look at you Ranger! Does the power of the Incredible Machine amaze you enough to make you so emotional?

Was it sincerity or sarcasm? The teenager didn't know, but it didn't matter, because he didn't care at all. He scrambled to stand up while taking deep breaths to clear his mind a bit.

- {Hey....Are you going to be ok...?}

The boy turned toward the Buizel who was staring at him, worried sick, before giving him a reassuring smile. The otter seemed to hesitate for a moment, then headbutted him affectionately.

- {....Don't overdo it.}

As Kellyn was about to nod his head to reassure his partner, a cry of terror suddenly caught their attention.

- Darkrai! Stop this immediately!

The Pokemon was floating above the president and his right-hand man, arms stretched skyward. Except that by looking at the ground, the brunet couldn't help but jump back. The Legendary had opened a new Black Hole and was dragging the adults inside!

- M-Mr Hall! H-Help!

The green-haired one was quickly dragged into the abyss, followed very closely by his Boss.

- R-Ranger! Help us! I'm begging you!

The opening closed right after, blocking out all other sound inside. The teenager remained frozen for a moment, while his brain registered what had just happened. When he finally came to, Darkrai was watching him blankly.

- ~ Kill...Kill....Kill....KILL....KILL..KILL. KILLKILLKILL~

The creature let out a bestial roar, freezing the pair in place as thick black clouds began to form around the top of the tower.

Meanwhile, on the side of the flying unit...

- What is that?! Fog?!

- I would say more clouds than fog, Sky Queen... But in any case, it's not normal.

As the jade-haired Ranger was about to respond, suddenly her Staraptor began to panic.

- W-Woah! Sky! Calm down, big boy! What's wrong with you?!

- [ D-Danger! Darkrai out of control!]

The Flying-Type flapped his wings frantically, trying to get away as quickly as possible. And you could tell from his non-sentences that terror had taken possession of him. No one could blame him for that...

Unfortunately, the Pokemon carrying Sven also quickly fell into this panic mode, threatening to bring down the adult at any moment.

...Only Fischl remained unmoved.

- (Tss...That complicates things. And the fact that these two are freaking out doesn't help either...)

The bird felt her passenger nervously scratch the back of her neck. Although it seemed like a gesture to reassure her, she knew it was as much for her as for him. The teenager bit his lips while staring at the dark mass.

-...Fischl....Do you think you can...?

She shook her head negatively, guessing what the redhead was trying to say. The boy reflexively clenched one of the fists while looking away, clearly frustrated. He was not the only one since the Staraptor was in the same state, because she knew very well that she was unable to pass through these clouds.

- Tss...! Shit!

Keith swore under his breath, trying in vain to control his excess of worries and emotions. He stared at the Yellow Gem he was holding before hugging it close to his chest and curling up on himself.

-...Kellyn...Come back safe. For pity's sake...

The tears started to flow.

-...Come back to me, I'm begging you.

He could swear his heart was pounding in his ears.

-...Please don't die...

Oh, how crazy was he to hope!

The young Staraptor could only see the state of the redhead, and she let him pour out his torrent of emotions. However, just like him, she was hoping too.

- (...Little Amethyst, Sapphire....We believe in you. We know you can do it. We believe in you....)

...She hoped that her voice would reach her partner and accompany him until the end.

Said Partner who was completely paralyzed by the immense threat that this enraged Darkrai posed.

- {Oh good Arceus- He completely lost control!}

- I-I...See that.

The Buizel, upon hearing the hesitation and fear in the brunet's voice, turned toward him then gently rubbed his muzzle against his cheek.

- {...You're scared, aren't you? Don't worry, I'm scared too. Who wouldn't be?}

He giggled nervously, thus succeeding in bringing Kellyn out of his trance.

- {....But don't worry, we'll succeed. It's a promise- No, an oath.}

Teal pupils widened in amazement. Did...Did he just use his catchphrase to reassure him?...He was adorable...!

But it would at least appease the poor Ranger a little.

-...Thank you Sapph. I needed it.

The ebony eyes lit up with relief.

- {No problem Kell!}

The 2 gently rubbed their cheeks together before refocusing on the Dark-Type who was threatening to attack them at any moment.

- ~ KILLKILLKILLKILL~

-....

The brunet's expression was greatly saddened upon seeing the catastrophic state of the Pokemon which was struggling to hold back. However, his determined air soon returned.

- I don't know if you can hear my voice, but anyway I swear to free you at all costs! You have my word!

The Legendary only answered with a deafening howl and then directly launched a attack on the duo, who narrowly dodged.

- Ready Sapph?

- { More than ever. Let's do it!}

The teenager engaged his Styler, took a deep breath and started probably the most important capture of his life.

After a few minutes though, he realized something....It wasn't working. The Vatonage Styler....Wasn't working on Darkrai.

No matter how many times he completed capture circles, they almost automatically disintegrated upon contact with the creature. Worse, it seemed to enrage him even more.

To make matters worse, the Water-Type interventions were proved to be completely ineffective, too.

- W-What the...?

- { For the love of Arceus...! Even the Vatonage Styler can't do anything?!}

This man clearly had no idea what he had unleashed...!

- ~ RAAAAAAAAGGGGGGHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!~

As the Pokemon poured out his rage at the duo, the crystal behind him glowed with an increasingly intense dark glow. Almost as if it was growing in power and influence as the Legendary was unleashed.

Kellyn also glanced at the stone for a moment, and all he saw was only an absence of light and love....This sight made his poor heart clench, which was beating at breakneck speed. .

-....Tss!

The brunet, although feeling deep down that it would be useless, refocused and tried his capture again...

- A-Argh!

And as expected, it failed miserably. The Pokemon sent him many projectiles in retaliation, some of which unfortunately reached him.

- {K-Kellyn!}

Sapphire quickly went to join his partner who was gritting his teeth while trying to ignore the new pain.

As the Water-Type tried somehow to examine the Ranger, the latter felt himself falling. His mind drifted into deep darkness, cutting out all outside noise.

- / Argh...Get up. Come on, get up. You MUST get up! Darkrai is counting on you. Pokemons are counting on you. The Rangers are counting on you. Almia is counting on you....So get up you idiot!/

Desperately trying to resume the fight, the brunet mentally insulted himself many times, forcing his body to move. But it was useless, the latter no longer answered him and fell asleep thanks to him remaining motionless.

...He was tired. He already knew that, of course. But not to the point that his carnal envelope refuses to obey him.

- /...No no no no no! It can't end like this! Move you idiot! I have to do it! I have to do it...!/

But nothing happened.

- / I...! I-I can't...!/

An oppressive silence wrapped comfortably around him.

- /...Am I really that useless...?/

A loud sob escaped his throat, echoing deep inside his head. He couldn't....He couldn't...!

I believe in you.

- /...Huh?/

I believe in you my Angel. I believe in you...You can do it. I know you are capable of it.

- / Keith...?/

You're not alone. We are here for you.

- / Fischl...?/

It's okay, Chocolate. You don't have to be afraid, it's just a stone.

- / Rhythmi.../

Don't give up, you're almost there!

- / Kate.../

You don't have to fight alone. Don't hesitate to ask for help.

- / Sapphire.../

Do not be afraid of the cold darkness. There is always a light at the end of the road.

- / Lucario.../

IT IS TRUE THAT YOUR HEART IS YOUR GREATEST WEAKNESS. BUT IT'S ALSO YOUR GREATEST STRENGTH. DO NOT FORGET IT.

- / Heatran.../

Do not worry. You have the most powerful weapon that exists. Trust your heart and let your instinct guide you!

- / Cresselia....!/

The different voices reached him one after the other, following each other at a sustained but pleasant rhythm, gradually warming his aching body. How could he have forgotten? He wasn't alone.

...And he knew exactly what he had to do.

Breathing, he cleared his mind, slowly starting to reconnect with reality. His senses were coming back to him little by little... And the pain too.

- A-Argh...!

- { Kellyn! Can you hear me?!}

The creature was staring at him with his big ebony eyes, looking totally distorted with worry and fear. The teenager moaned, before performing a small smile.

- I-I'm fine! J-Just...Urgh...Scratches!

Upon seeing the Buizel's stern gaze, the teenager immediately understood that the latter didn't believe him at all. At the same time, some of his wounds were bleeding, while others were already forming hematomas...No wonder, in the end.

- {...Let's retreat.}

- E-Excuse me?

The boy tilted his head slightly to the side, wondering if he had heard wrong.

- { You are no longer able to fight. Not in this state.}

Oh no. He wasn't hearing things.

- I...Thank you for your concern Sapph. But it's okay. I-I can do it...I can do it. I'm not made of glass, you know?

The otter shook his head slowly, looking sad.

- { I know it. You are made of flesh and bones, just like me. Except that's not why I'm worried....You're tired and exhausted. And those wounds....They're not to your advantage. You've done so much already...Let someone else take over and rest.}

It was the Ranger's turn to shake his head, before smiling sadly but reassuringly.

- How so? No one can come join us.

The Pokemon suddenly tensed, knowing it was true. The brunet then gently put his hand on the head of the creature before starting gentle caresses.

- I understand your concern, and frankly I am touched. But remember: I'm a Ranger. It's my job to fight to protect Nature and Pokemons. How can I be a good Ranger if I run away every time my life is in danger? These are the hazards of the job and I have accepted this fact for a long time.

The young boy gave a big smile to the Pokemon who frowned, clearly displeased.

-...Sorry Saph.

- {Huh?}

- Sorry to make you worry. It will be fine now. I know what I have to do.

Kellyn rested his left hand against his cardiac muscle, his eyes half-closed. He could hear it beating loudly, but it didn't symbolize panic. It was more like...Adrenaline.

He opened his eyes, secretly meeting the icy pupils of Darkrai who hadn't moved from his spot near the Shadow Crystal. The young Ranger gently clenched his fist, filled with a new will.

-....I just have to open my heart and listen.

The brunet got up slowly, careful not to aggravate his injuries while re-engaging his Styler. The latter shone with a beautiful tricolor brilliance. Sapphire, quickly understanding the situation, went back to the boy's side, ready to fight.

- { I trust you for this one. But, if it ever smells like trouble, promise me to retreat immediately, understand?}

- Promise, Sapph.

- { Alright. Now...Let's end this nightmare once and for all!}

The teal-eyed one nodded vigorously, his attention riveted on Darkrai who screeched, announcing that he was about to attack.

- Darkrai...Let yourself go. Your pain, your grief, your rage....Send me everything. I will accept it without flinching. If it can calm you down....I'll do it.

The teenager gave a reassuring smile to the creature, who stared at him for a short moment before charging. Assault that the duo narrowly avoided.

- Ready Sapph?

- {I'll follow you until the end of the world.}

Kellyn took a deep breath and for the 3rd time tonight, tried his luck again with the Legendary....And this time, it was working. Capture Loops no longer disintegrate on contact with the Pokemon, and thus finally begin to appease him.

- Urgh....

...However, as always, there was a quid pro quo.

- {Hey! Everything's good?}

- Y-Yeah...Don't worry, it's not worth it.

Let's play hide and seek, okay? Go away! You can't escape! You hide and I seek. What the?! I wonder how much I could get from him! No matter what happens, don't go out for any reason, okay? Assholee! But you are in my way! Good luck &*$^/£¥!

The brunet shook his head vigorously, trying to get those horrible voices out of his head. Because there was the quid pro quo: being completely exposed to the nightmarish powers of Darkrai.

His heart, having broken down all it's barriers, took the full force of the Pokemon's dark power. This results in auditory and visual hallucinations at times.

But that in no way discouraged the 11th Top Ranger who continued to welcome this pain with open arms.

Finally, the final blow was given, causing the Legendary to stop dead in his action. A few seconds passed before he collapsed to the ground, officially announcing the end of the fight. Besides, the black clouds surrounding the tower dissipated almost immediately after that.

The duo remained petrified on the spot for a moment, letting silence settle in...Silence which Sapphire carefully broke.

- { W-We...We did it...?....Kell! We did it!}

- Yeah...I-It's over....

The teenager blinked softly, feeling the adrenaline leaving his poor body struggling to stay upright. He barely registered when a dazzling light escaped from the dark crystal...Aaaahhhh....It seems that the flying unit had accomplished it's mission...!

Kellyn closed his eyes slowly, breathing deeply. He distinctly heard his heart pounding like crazy loudly in his ears, almost converting the voices around him into background noise.

Suddenly, he felt his body being pulled into a warm, powerful embrace. He didn't have time to wonder who the culprit was because his lips were pressed against another pair, starting a hasty and desperate kiss.

- /....Keith. Keith....!/

Instinctively, his body tried to respond to the affective gesture except he didn't know if the redhead felt it. He was so...Tired....

...Oh, what was that salty taste? Tears...?

- Oh for the love of Mew, I'll never let you go again...! I was scared! So scared...!

-...Sor...Ry...

The brunet was only moving his lips, unable to find the strength to communicate otherwise. However, that was enough for his partner who cuddled him against his chest, whispering in his ear:

- Huhuh.You don't have to apologize my Angel. Just rest. You deserved it...

...And his legs gave way under his weight, dragging his boyfriend down with him, although he seemed to have already anticipated it because he caught himself with ease.

- Shh...~ Everything's fine now Kell...We'll take care of everything, so get some sleep, ok? You're exhausted...

The teenager, understanding that nothing was expected of him, relaxed before snuggling up against the oldest. He then tried to join the world of Morpheus except that sleep didn't come to him. So he just closed his eyes and listened to the steady heartbeat of the other boy.

Badump badump badump

Kellyn quickly felt his attention dissipate to only enjoy the beating of his partner's life muscle. He could no longer hear what was going on around him, because now he was in a state between wakefulness and sleep.

...Maybe it was due to stress.

Anyway, he began to squeeze the redhead's body using the little strength he had left. Said redhead who understood by this gesture that the one with teal eyes was not sleeping.

- You can't sleep, can you, my Angel? Um...How about cuddling instead?

The brunet gave a weak headbutt to his comrade, who translated this as a "Yes". And thank Arceus for that! The 11th Top Ranger will never say "No" to affection!

Keith chuckled softly before starting to cuddle and pamper his boyfriend who let him do as he wished without problems. The older of the two couldn't prevent a tender smile from appearing on his lips.

The younger boy didn't know how long they stayed like that, not that he cared anyway, but there came a time when the Fiore Ranger changed his position. The crimson-eyed one put one arm under the boy's legs while the other held his chest against his.

Oh...Bridal style. If he had been in full control of his body, it was more than likely that the one being carried would have been embarrassed to Death. However, he was far too tired to care. He even found it pleasant.

- We're going home, don't worry.》

Ah...His expression must have been confused since the red-haired boy felt the need to explain the situation to him. No big deal, he couldn't wait to get out of there.

So he leaned his head against his partner, and let his steady movements soothe him.

...Soon....Soon he will be home.

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