Way to the Dawn [Eng Version]

Chapter V: Pain and Tears

- /...Where am I...?/

Such was the first thought that crossed Kellyn's mind when he opened his eyes again. He looked around the room for a long time before realizing that he was in his room at the Union. It was hot, very hot.

Probably because he was bundled up in his blanket or maybe the heating was on? Probably both.

When he sat up, his whole body twisted in pain causing him to moan breathlessly.

- Ouch, ouch, ouch....! Ugh...

The teenager felt something fall from his forehead, and caught the object mid-flight, not without difficulty.

-...A towel?

He also noticed that he was wearing a different outfit, consisting of a black long-sleeved t-shirt and a gray tracksuit... If you look closely, he was floating a bit in these clothes.

-...That's n-not mine. *cough* *cough*....

He coughed for a moment, struggling to catch his breath. It gave him a slight headache in the process. He began to gently massage his temples, in an attempt to soothe the pain.

-...Okay...Let's try to s-tand up...

The brunet then began to slowly get out of bed, ignoring his tremors the best he could. Suddenly, the door opened, revealing the 12th Top Ranger carrying a tray full of healing items. He wasn't wearing his uniform, moreover, but rather house's clothes, making the youngest assume that we were supposed to be in the evening.

Their eyes met, instantly petrifying them. The redhead almost dropped his load when he understood that his friend was awake. He then put his tray in a safe spot before throwing himself on the younger teen.

The latter jumped slightly when he felt the oldest hurriedly place his hands on his burning cheeks.

- You're awake...! Oh thank Arceus, you're awake!

His crimson pupils were shedding a torrent of tears, while his face contorted in both relief and pain. Kellyn had never seen such an expression on the other boy's face, and it hurt him. It hurted him so much.

Keith then shifted his position, gently wrapping his arms around the fragile body of the teal-eyed one. His embrace was warm, powerful, but also tender.

- I-I...I'm glad you're alive...! So glad...

His voice cracked with practically every word, despite the fact that he was trying to keep his composure....A huge feeling of guilt filled the youngest, he shouldn't be making his friend cry...

-...I...I was so scared...You don't know how scared I was....Your body...It was s-so cold....So injured...I...I thought you weren't going to wake up...!

He slowly ran his hand through the brown hair, grimacing as he felt the various wounds in his path. He then tightened his grip, surprising his friend.

-...For the love of Mew, what did they do to you...?

The 11th Top Ranger stared at him for a moment, before whispering:

-...S-Sorry...

- Hum?

- I'm sorry. I-I...It's my fault...*cough*...I-I...-

He was interrupted by the one with crimson pupils who had gently placed his forefinger against his frozen lips.

- Shh...Shut up Kell. I'm begging you, shut up....

The older teen sighed before cradling his friend against him, creating a cocoon of warmth and protection.