Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Grayson!" The Chief boomed across the firehouse. Carter backed out of the cabinet of the firetruck he was cleaning and restocking. He spotted his Chief standing at the door.

“My office.” The Chief barked out. Carter, confused, quickly marched to the office. He closed the door and turned to see Captain Mitchell standing there, a stack of colored folders sitting on the desk. He stood at attention, despite being very confused, and even a little worried. Was something so wrong, Lightspeed needed to be reformed? He still kept in touch with everyone, but they didn't say anything was wrong. Especially Dana, who would definitely know if Captain Mitchell was there. The Chief cleared his throat.

“Have a seat, Grayson. You aren't in any trouble.” The Chief said as he sat behind his desk. Carter slowly sat down, looking again at Captain Mitchell. The Captain smiled.

“I will cut right to the chase: As you know, we had a lot of success with Lightspeed Rescue, outside of the whole monsters and demons, the first responders of this city have benefited greatly from the help Lightspeed brought to them. As such, we are thinking of branching out. Cities that could benefit from that same support. Now, we won't be sending the whole team to one place.” Carter frowned a little at this. While he was glad it wasn't anything serious, he would've liked getting the team together. Mitchell chuckled at his look.

“Don't get me wrong, you guys work great together, but the goal of this project is to establish Lightspeed Rescue bases in cities that meet certain criteria. We will be sending each of you to one of these cities.” Mitchell brought out a stack of colored files.

“Dana will be going to Tulain, in New Orleans. She will be working as an EMT. Joel will be doing Search and Rescue work for Yellowstone, working with the Helicopter pilots. Chad is going to California, to help with the beaches in San Diego. Kelley is being sent to Yosemite, also helping Search and Rescue.” The red folder was the only one left. The Chief spoke up.

“I made some calls to some old firefighter buddies, and they all pointed to one place that they said a high-speed guy like you would be great for. Firehouse 51, in Chicago. They have a solid crew, and I agree with them, that you would be a great addition to their team. I spoke with their Chief and he is all for the idea.” Carter's brain had to catch up with the words his Chief was saying. Chicago. Next to New York, it was his dream to be a firefighter there. When his thoughts caught up, he stood up.

“Pardon me.” He left the office. Mitchell and the Chief heard faint cheers and whooping, before Carter came back in, very calm and composed.

“Thank you for this great opportunity, sir.” As he sat back down. Captain Mitchell smirked a little.

“Now, the details. You will be working as a firefighter first and foremost. But, if you deem a situation dire enough, you will be authorized to use your morpher. For a period of 2 years, you will work with them. After 2 years, there will be an evaluation, and based on that, we will see if Chicago would benefit from its own Lightspeed Rescue team.” Carter was practically bouncing up and down mentally in his seat, but still remained stoic on the outside. His Chief handed him the red folder.

“Good luck and GodSpeed, Grayson.” Carter shook his hand and saluted both his Chief and Captain Mitchell. As he left the office, he couldn't help the smile across his face. He couldn't wait to tell Kendrix!

Some time later

Carter tapped his fingers on the desk excitedly as he waited for the computer to connect his call. His gaze kept shifting to the little black box sitting to his right. It had taken alot to get it in such short time. Alot of phone calls, down payment that at least Lightspeed was helping out with, since he was going to be a representative of them in Chicago. It almost fell through, but Carter was please that everything came together at last. Just one final part.

The screen clicked on, and Kendrix's smiling face filled the screen.

“Hi, Carter!” She said, happily. Before Carter could answer, there was a chorus of,

“Hi, Carter!” He looked behind her and saw the whole Galactic team, minus Karone, smiling and waving. Carter could tell they were being sarcastic in their greeting, and so could Kendrix. She looked over her shoulder.

“Hey! What did I say? I said you guys could stay in here while I talked to Carter, if you behaved. That's not behaving. Everyone out.” There was the sound of grumbling and complaining, with Leo leaning into the screen to give another greeting.

“Leo. Do not make me sic Karone on you.” Kendrix shook her head as the door closed.

“14 years old, the lot of them.” She said with a good natured smile. Carter chuckled at the antics.

“So what's up?” She asked. Carter became slightly nervous again, eying the box.

“Well, I have some news. Lightspeed wants me to do an assignment for them, and it involves a transfer.” He began to explain. Kendrix beamed.

“Carter, that's great! I'm so proud of you. Where are they sending you to?” Carter let out a nervous laugh, rubbing the back of his neck.

“Chicago.” He said. Kendrix let out a cheer.

“Chicago!? I'm so jealous, I always wanted to live in a big city like Chicago. It's part of the reason I signed on with Terra Venture.” She sighed wistfully. Carter cleared his throat.

“Yeah. They want me to stay for at least two years to see if Lightspeed can set up a branch there.” He said.

“Which means I'm going to be living there, of course, goes without saying.” Sweat was beginning to form on his forehead. It was amazing. He fought fires and monsters without so much as a rapid heartrate, but this was sending it skyhigh. Kendrix noticed.

“Carter, you okay?” Kendrix asked. Carter coughed.

“Look, you commute a lot to visit me, and with this move, if all goes well, I'm probably going to be put in charge of Lightspeed Chicago, I was wondering…” Carter pulled the little box into view. Kendrix felt her breath catch in her throat. It wasn't like they hadn't talked about it, what couple who had been dating for a long time didn't, but Kendrix had her reasons for not wanting to make that kind of commitment yet. It felt so final, so set. If anything were to happen to either of them, she didnt know if she could handle it at that level. Carter was a firefighter, and Kendrix still remembered just how easily her own life...

"Carter. We talked about this. I know you want to make that next step, and I do to, but..." Carter was confused until he saw the shape of the box and it clicked. He couldn't help but laugh a little.

“No! Not that kind of wondering. I was going to ask if you wanted to move in with me? I know how you feel about… that next step. So, I figured we could take a step before it.” Carter opened the box to reveal a key. He knew all about what happened to her, she still had dreams and nightmares, they both did. They both knew not to take life for granted, but they also didn't want to have the other person suffer if something happened again. Kendrix told him that staying boyfriend/girlfriend felt safe to her. Carter understood and told her he would wait until she was ready.

Kendrix was silent for a moment. Moving in? Living with Carter? It wasn't marriage, but it was one step before it. She couldn't help but feel bad for Carter, with her feelings on the relationship. She just didn't want him to hurt more than her friends did. But, this felt like a good step to take. She knew she needed to confront those feelings, and this was as good as way as any. She smiled.

“Yes, I would love to move in with you! I can ask to have more remote work…” before Kendrix could go on, there was a shout from off screen.

“Oh my God, he asked her to move in with him!” And like that, the moment was broken. Kendrix rolled her eyes, picked up her phone and dialed a number.

“Yeah. He is eavesdropping right outside the door. Thanks.” She put the phone down. There was a moment, then they heard Leo say,

“Karone? What are you doing here, babe? Hey! I wasn't eavesdropping! I was just passing by... Ow!"

Chapter Text

Carter took a deep breath as he sat in his jeep in front of Firehouse 51. In many ways, it looked like his old Firehouse, but he knew every House was different on the inside. Each one had their own traditions, culture, and crews. He was being thrown into the middle of teams that had been together for a long time with a few changes here and there. He had read the files and knew he had his work cut out for him trying to not only convince them to let him be apart of their crew, but that an organization like Lightspeed Rescue would be good for the city.

With another deep breath, he got out and shivered at the blast of cold air that hit him. This would be the biggest adjustment to make, moving from Mariner Bay, California to a windy city like Chicago. He zipped up his jacket and walked quickly to get inside.

Herrman and Mouch watched as a young man came walking up to the Firehouse. He was wearing an orange and black jacket with a red shield patch on the sleeve, and a strange logo on the chest. Mouch tapped Hermman on the arm.

“Whose the Boy Scout?” He asked. Herrman looked over and scowled a little bit.

“Don’t know. We weren’t supposed to get another candidate aside from Ritter. Think some other House is dumping him on us?” He asked. Mouch shook his head.

“I haven’t heard anything. And look at him, he looks like he stepped right out of a recruitment poster.” Herrman huffed.

“Great, we just got rid of Gorsche, and now we have another by the book rookie thrown at us.” He grumbled. Carter noticed they were looking at him and made his way over.

“Excuse me, could you tell me where Chief Boden’s office is? I’m suppose to check in with him this morning before the briefing.” He asked, sticking his hand out to shake. Mouch shook it with a small smile, while Herrman gave him a single handshake.

“I’ll take you to his office. I’m Mouch, and this grumpy guy is Herrman.” He said. Before Carter could introduce himself, a deep, booming voice interrupted him.
“Carter Grayson!” Chief Boden called out from the briefing room. Carter looked up sharply and stood at attention slightly.

“Yes, sir!” He called out. He nodded to the two older men and ran over to Boden.

“Go pick out a locker and set your stuff down. The brief is in ten minutes.” Boden said, handing Carter a red CFD shirt.

“Captain Mitchell told me about your affinity for the color red.” He said. Carter nodded and quickly found an empty locker. Everyone was already in the briefing room, so he was by himself as he changed into his new shirt and work pants with boots. He hung up his jacket, taking a moment to look at the morpher on his wrist. It felt both weird and almost natural to have it back on his wrist. Closing the locker, he straightened up and walked into the room. The talking went to whispers as he approached Boden for some last-minute instructions. Brett looked at Foster.

“I’ve been hanging around Mouch and Herrman too long. I didn’t think firefighters looked like that anymore.” She said. Both girls snorted a bit as the two older men glared, hearing the comment. Boden cleared his throat and all talking stopped.

“Alright, listen up. As you can see, we have a newcomer. I will let him tell you what he is here for and why.” Boden nodded to Carter, who gulped and nodded. He waved a little.

“Hello, my name is Carter Grayson, and I am here because Chicago has been chosen as a city that could possibly benefit from the program I represent: Lightspeed Rescue.” Carter paused, noting the confused looks were still there, and if anything, increased.

“Lightspeed is a private, government group that was established in Mariner Bay, California. Our main mission was defending the city against evil beings, but we also helped the local first responders in all manors: police, fire, and EMS. Over the course of our involvement, Mariner Bay saw a rise in people saved, the cost of damage lowered, things like that. Now, they want to see if other cities can have the same results and use their own branch of Lightspeed. I am here to help you guys with emergencies and in two years, they will crunch the numbers, and we shall see.” Carter stopped when Cruz raised his hand.

“So, what are you, exactly? Are you a firefighter or a super soldier?” Carter laughed a little, starting to relax.

“I am an actual firefighter, before Lightspeed found me. I will be assisting you as a firefighter with my extra training, However, if a situation calls for it, I will change into my Lightspeed Rescue form.”

“You mean if there is a big emergency, you will stop and what? Change clothes?” Herrman said.

“Well, yes. But it will only take a few seconds. In fact, I think Miss Fairweather timed us morphing and it was about less than 3 seconds. A flash of light. For me, it feels longer though.” Carter looked at Boden.

“Perhaps a demonstration is in order?” He asked. Boden gave a single nod. Carter stepped away from the podium a bit. He waved his arms in a pattern.

“Lightspeed! Rescue!” He called out, clicking the morpher on his wrist. To everyone else, there was a flash of red light and Carter stood in front of them, in his Ranger form. To Carter, the process looked different. Flashing lights and the red and white shield enveloping him. He snapped to attention and saluted.

“Red Ranger, rescue ready!’ He said.

Almost every jaw was now on the tables or floors, all the confusion gone. Carter retracted the visor and smiled.

“How long was that for you guys?” Everyone got up to observe his new suit.

“What is this material.” Otis asked.

“A kind of fancy spandex. Very durable, can withstand beyond 1500 degrees in a fire, not bullet proof, but it will take the sting out. The breather in my helmet has a mini oxygen tank. The helmet and visor can go through a concrete wall with minor scratches.” Carter explained. He gave the command of power down, another flash, and he was back in his normal clothes. Boden stepped up to the podium now, calming everyone down.

“Carter will be with Squad 3, because that’s where his training will come in most handy, but he will switch to truck and engine if needed. While he is here, he is not another Candidate. You will treat him like the full fledge firefighter he is, not some rookie.” He glared at the group from truck 81, who all looked innocent. He turned back to Carter.

“Meet up with Kelly Severide. He will be your Lieutenant.” Carter nodded and with that, the brief was done. Carter let out a breath. That went better than he thought. And they really responded to him morphing. He had to smile a little, even he was amazed when he first morphed. It was hard not to be.

“Hey.” A voice brought him out of his thoughts. He turned to see Severide staring at him.

“I’m Severide. Welcome to Squad.” He said, shaking hands with Carter.

“Nice to meet you.” He said. A blonde man with came up to join them.

“Matt Casey. I’m the Captain and on Truck 81.” Carter also shook his hand.

“Mariner Bay? Never heard of it.” Severide said as they made their way to the common room. The smell of food made Carter’s stomach growl a bit.

“Yeah, not too many people have. It’s a small city in California. Aside from us, not too much goes on.” He said as he grabbed a plate. Herrman watched as the new guy began to grab some food.

“Lest than a minute and he is already making himself at home. Wow.” He said. Mouch and Otis looked at him.

“What’s with you?” Otis asked.

“Did you hear him in there? Some government company wants to run us all out of a job by replacing us with a bunch of hot shots in spandex. That doesn’t sit right with me.” Herrman said. Meanwhile, Brett and Foster casually walked over.

“Hi there. I’m Brett, this is Foster. We are the ambulance crew. You do any EMT work?” Brett asked. Carter smiled and nodded.

“A little. Just the required classes. Probably not enough to join you guys on any calls.” He said.

“You find a place around here yet? Two years is a long time for hotel living.” Foster asked.

“Yeah, actually. Took a little bit of begging to get a place on such short notice, but luckily, Lightspeed helped me out.” He said.

“That’s good. Hey, listen. Wanna hit a bar called Molly’s after your first shift? It’s a firefighter owned bar for firefighters. Celebrate your first shift and give you a proper welcome?” Brett asked, trying to keep the flirty tone out of her speech. Carter beamed.

“Sure! But it will have to be a second shift after party. After I get off here, I’m helping my girlfriend move in with me and then we are going to unpack.” He felt a little bad at the defeated smile Brett had on her face. Foster was trying not to laugh, only just masking it.

“Girlfriend? That’s nice. What does she do?” Brett asked, grinding the toe of her boot into the floor.

“Kendrix is a scientist. She studies ancient languages and cultures.” Carter said. It was partially true, except for it being on another planet. Save that tidbit for the second shift. Before another question was asked, a siren rang out over the room.

“Squad 3, motor vehicle accident.” A voice called out. Severide grabbed Carter and they ran out to the truck.

“Grab a spare coat and helmet. Nothing fancy today.” Severide said with a small smirk. Carter grinned and did as he was told. He never saw Brett banging her head on the table, talking about how the cute ones are always taking. Once he got a spare set of gear, he hopped into the truck and it went screaming into the city.

Chapter Text

Squad 3 rolled back up into the Station, Severide climbing out as Carter hopped off the truck.

“So, unfortunately, a lot of calls are going to be because someone got rear ended in a parking lot and they just can’t get their seatbelt off. Don’t worry though, you’ll get your time to shine, Lightspeed.” Carter laughed at the nickname, putting away his spare gear. Matt walked up as Severide sat down in his chair.

“How did he do?” He asked Severide.

“He did good. Takes directions well, knows his way around the tools and can assess a scene. Can’t wait to see what he does in a big emergency.” Kelly said, watching as Carter talked with Cruz and Otis, both asking questions about Lightspeed Rescue. Herrman cleared his throat.

“Grayson.” He called out. Carter looked up.

“Yeah?” He asked, walking up to the older firefighter. Herrman raised an eyebrow.

“That’s ‘Yes, sir’, these bugles mean something.” He said, pointing to the insignias on his lapel. Carter nodded, face also going serious.

“Yes, sir.” He said.

“Alright, these floors need a good scrubbing, then bathrooms, and then you can restock the trucks.” Herrman instructed.

“Hey, Herrman, Boden said not to treat this guy like a Candidate.” Severide said. Carter held up his hands.

“Relax, guys. I’ll do it.” He looked at Herrman.

“I just need to go to the store to buy a toothbrush for the toilets.” He said. There was a smattering of laughter.

“Is that supposed to be some wise ass joke?” Herrman growled. The laughter died down.

“Sorry, sir. Just trying to lighten the mood. I will get started on the floors.” Carter said, moving off to get the broom and mop. Matt tapped Herrman on the arm.

“What’s with making him clean everything? He is not some rookie. He’s not some kid fresh out of the academy. Plus, he is on Squad 3. If anyone is going to give him orders, its going to be Severide.” Matt said.

“He’s new to us, ain’t he? Plus, Boden said he is interchangeable.” Herrman stared at Matt until the younger man turned away first.

Severide caught Carter as he was scrubbing away at a toilet.

“Hey, listen, I’ll talk to Boden. Get him to talk to Herrman.” Carter smiled and waved him off.

“It’s no big deal. I would be lying if I said I didn’t do my fair share of hazing, plus he is right, I’m new to the House. Gotta earn my way in.” Severide leaned against the stall door.

“So, what’s it take to get into Lightspeed? How do you find them?” He asked.

“You don’t find them, they find you. My friend, Kelsey, was rock climbing and when she got to the top, she said these two Men In Black looking guys were standing there. She was more pissed that they got to the top before her.” He said, laughing at the memory.

“So, if Chicago gets a branch, you’ll probably pick from here and the other houses.” Severide said. Carter nodded as he scrubbed at a trouble spot.

“You have to be top of your field, and then they train you in other areas. EMS, Search and Rescue, shooting, room clearance.” Severide whistled lowly.

“What made you want to be a firefighter.” He asked. Carter launched into the story of when he was a boy and being saved by Captain Mitchell. He and Severide talked as Carter cleaned, until Herrman came by and reminded him to keep cleaning. Severide just shook his head.

“I’ll talk to him.” He said, walking off.

After Shift

“This place is great.” Kendrix said, bringing in the last into their new apartment. It was about the size of the room Kendrix had on Terra Venture, only with two bedrooms. She didn’t have much, and between the two of them, they both were quick to unpack. Carter was setting up pictures on the shelves, most being group photos of their friends.

“We have way too many pictures of our friends.” He said. Kendrix laughed as she took plates and other dishes out in the kitchen.

“Uh, Kendrix?” She turned to see Carter pull the Quasar Saber out of a box. He looked at Kendrix with a raised eyebrow.

“Does Maya know you took this?” He asked. Kendrix laughed as she took the Saber from him.

“Don’t worry, this isn’t the real one. This is more of a… functional replica.” She said.

“When you say functional?” Carter pondered.

“It can shoot of sparks, makes a good blunt instrument, and I’m not sure yet, but I think I can hold a morph for an hour.” She said. Carter gave her a look.

“What? Karone and I talked about it. She has the real one and most of the power that goes with it. I get a little bit of it for emergency cases.” Carter shook his head as he went back to unpacking.

“Honey, if you feel unsafe, I could’ve gotten you a Louisville Slugger.” Kendrix ran a hand along the blade of the saber.

“But can a baseball bat shoot off lasers and change me into a spandex suit in a few seconds, sans talcum powder?” She asked. When Carter couldn’t think of a rebuttal, she tapped on the head with the tip.

“Exactly.”

“Why would you even need to morph?” He asked as he broke down the empty boxes. Kendrix set the saber on the mantel, looking like a sci-fi prop.

“What if there is another monster attack in the city and you are on duty? Or a bank robbery? Why do you get to be a big shot hero while I stay home?” Carter gave her a dry look, making Kendrix crack up.

“The guys made me, alright. They wanted to make sure I was safe and could defend myself, and the thought of me with a gun terrified Leo and Kai.” She said. Carter didn’t voice his opinion that thought also terrified him.

“So, this Herrman guy? Why does he hate you so much? You are so lovable.” She said, hugging him from behind briefly.

“Its nothing personal. He is of the Old Guard. New guy comes in, flashing all sorts of shiny toys and talking about a new organization coming to his city, these old dinosaurs get twitchy. I just have to pay my dues, and he’ll warm up, I’m sure.”

***

The next day, Herrman was still cold to Carter. He had him cleaning the firehouse top to bottom, stocking and restocking. Any time someone tried to chat with him, Herrman would be right there, telling Carter to get back to work. Between that and the few calls he went on, Carter was starting to lose his easy-going nature. When he sat down to try and eat some lunch, Herrman told him he needed to check the turnout gear. Again. Carter was about to snap and say something when the alarm rang out. It was all trucks to a fire at an abandoned apartment complex.

The building was spitting flames when they got there. While that building itself was empty, the fire was threatening the neighboring buildings. Firehouse 51 got to work, quickly setting up hose lines.

“Squad and Truck, I want you guys to do a sweep and get a line in there. Make sure we have no homeless people in there trying to salvage what they have. I want to try and save as much of this place as we can.” Boden ordered.

“Follow me, Lightspeed.” Severide ordered. Carter nodded and donned his mask. As Truck and Engine worked on getting the hoses up and running while Squad swept the building. They quickly got to the floor the fire was on, looking like it had started from a room and engulfed the hallway.

“Alright, lets get some water in here and get out of here. You’ll probably have to scrub the trucks. Again.” Severide said as they walked out of the building. Carter rolled his eyes at the joke, before his ears perked up when a voice crackled over the radio.

“Hey, Chief! I’m on the floor below the fire and its looking real unstable! We need to get everyone out of there!” Cruz shouted over the radio.

“We got Herrman and Otis up there.” Matt said. Boden called out over the radio.

“Otis, Herrman, you need to start moving out.” He said. The next thing made Carter tense up.

“We can’t Chief! Part of the floor gave way when I moved! Herrman is stuck in the other side of the hole! If he tries to jump the gap with all his gear, he might fall through!” Otis said. Carter walked over to Boden.

“Chief, let me go up there. My Ranger form is lighter. I can get him out of there.” Boden thought for a second, then nodded. Carter took his tank and helmet off.

“Lightspeed Rescue!” He said as he moved. In a red flash, Carter was now running into the building. He quickly got up to the floor Herrman was on.

“What the hell are you doing up here?!” Herrman shouted over the flames. Carter leapt across the floor, wincing as it creaked.

“I’m here to get you out! We are going to jump to the floor below!” Carter said.

“Are you insane?!” Herrman didn’t have time to hear the answer before Carter slung Herrman into a Fireman’s Carry. Carter jumped down to the floor below, wincing as pain shot up his legs. He quickly set Herrman down, and they both exited the building. Herrman didn’t say anything, just looked at Carter as he was being checked out by Foster. He locked eyes with the younger man and gave him a brief nod.

***

“So, I know you are a firefighter and a Power Ranger, but do you have to add doing reckless things like jumping a full floor down in a building fire with a guy who hates you on your back?” Kendrix asked as she passed Carter am ice pack for his shoulder. Carter shrugged with a wry grin.

“I was the only one who could get up there without the whole floor collapsing. I’m just thankful the floor didn’t give way when I landed.” He winced at the look Kendrix gave him.

“How about if I promise not to do reckless, action movie style stuff again and just do regular, reckless stuff?” He asked. Kendrix still wasn’t smiling or giving him any inch. He sighed and pulled her to his side on the couch.

“I know you get nervous, more so if I was just a regular firefighter. I can’t promise everything will go smoothly, and I can’t promise I won’t try to get myself killed trying to save a teammate.” Kendrix leaned into him as he played with her hair.

“I know. And I really can’t get mad at you for it, since I did the same thing once before. Granted, I liked the person I was saving, but I would’ve done it anyway even if I did hate her.” Carter kissed the top of her head. They sat there in a comfortable silence, when the doorbell rang. Carter jumped up excitedly.

“Oh boy! I’ve been wanting to try actual Chicago style pizza, in Chicago.” He said as he walked to the door. Kendrix was a little miffed when she lost her pillow but rolled her eyes fondly.

“You do know other places make Chicago style.” Carter beamed.

“But not in Chicago.” He said. He opened the door to see a nervous looking Herrman holding a pizza box.

“I, uh, stopped the guy on the way up here. Paid for the pie.” Herrman shrugged as he handed off the box to a very confused Carter.

“Thanks, sir.” He said. Herrman waved a hand.

“You can call me Herrman like everyone else. I came by to say thanks for the save and to apologize for being such a jackass.” He said.

“Don’t worry too much about it. Bet that’s the cleanest the Firehouse has ever been.” Carter said. They both chuckled.

“Well, coming down here wasn’t my idea entirely. When I told my wife what happened, she made me come down here.” Carter nodded gravely.

“Yeah, my girlfriend wasn’t too happy I almost killed myself helping you.” He said.

“I heard that.” Kendrix called out. Carter rolled his eyes with a grin. He gestured behind him with his thumb.

“You wanna come inside?” Herrman shook his head.

“Actually, I didn’t come alone.” Suddenly, the hallway was full of Firehouse 51 crew.

“Since we didn’t get to have that welcome party, we figured we would invite you and Kendrix to Molly’s to officially welcome you to Firehouse 51.” Herrman said. Carter looked over at Kendrix.

“You want to go?” Kendrix pretended to think.

“Can we bring the pizza?” She asked. Carter looked to everyone.

“Can we bring the pizza?” He asked.

“Hell yeah.” Otis called out. Carter and Kendrix left with everyone. It was a night to celebrate new beginnings and new friendships.

Chapter Text

Kendrix yawned and stretched as she leaned back from her desk, rubbing her eyes under her glasses. She had gotten up early as usual, going through her morning routine of going on a run with Carter and sparring on the rooftop of the apartment building, before Carter left for his shift at the firehouse. She took a moment of silence and the stillness to look around the apartment. Pictures of both teams lined the walls and shelves, along with pictures of Carter's old Firehouse, and various medals and awards for Carter and even herself alongside them. It was a warm and cozy apartment that Kendrix never really saw herself living in, but now, she couldn't picture herself anywhere else.

When she joined Terra Venture, it was mostly for the opportunity to see the solar system and beyond. She knew she would have to do work as a soldier, but never saw herself as a G.I. Jane type. She knew self defense, almost hurting Damon when demonstrating her skills, but that was it as far as fighting. Until she drew the Quasar Saber and became a Power Ranger. It surprised her how easily she fell into the role of a defender and warrior, how quickly she would put herself in a position where she would risk herself to save her friends and innocents. The second Pink Ranger, Kat, told her once it was a common trait of a Pink Ranger, the selflessness and willingness to rush headlong into danger for others.

“It's what gets us in trouble the most, I think” Kat had said, chuckling a bit, but Kendrix believed it wholeheartedly. Even more so after…

Kendrix shook her head to get herself out of the track her train of thoughts were leading her down. Deciding it was a good time for a break, and maybe explore a bit of the city, she turned off her computer, grabbed her coat and decided a day just walking around sounded nice.

Thanking the barista with a smile, Kendrix walked out, only to stop as she felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. She pulled it out and smiled at the caller ID.

“Hey, Kai. What's up?” Instead of a friendly answer, she just got a very monotone voice.

“When are you coming back?” Kendrix laughed as she continued walking.

“Come on, Kai. Leo isn't that bad. He has really mellowed out from being in a leadership position.” She said.

“You would think, but I swear, he is just as hyperactive as before. Now, him by himself, I can handle it. He is annoying, but tolerable. It's when he and Karone are together, it's like they have no other function but to cause as much chaos as they can.” There was a brief pause before Kai came back on the line.

“Do you know what they are doing right now? Karone dared Leo to climb one of the biggest trees around.” There was a voice coming from a distance.

“Because Karone is too chicken to climb it herself.” Kendrix had to stop from laughing loudly in public as she heard Karone shout back something and Kai sighed.

“Now Karone is climbing the tree. I gotta let you go before one of them either falls or they find a sturdy enough branch and start making out.” He said. Kendrix shook her head with a fond smile as she clicked her phone off and started looking around the city, sipping her coffee. She noticed a large group of people clustered around a building, everyone looking up.

“What's going on?” Kendrix asked a woman.

“There is a guy up on the roof who looks like he is going to jump.” The woman said. Kendrix looked up and saw a person on the edge of the roof. Even from the ground, she could tell he was swaying a little.

Three fire trucks pulled up, one of them being the squad Carter was on. Kendrix saw him jump out of the truck, and he saw Kendrix and she nodded at him. Carter put his mind back on the job as Kelly walked up to a cop.

“What do we got?” He asked.

“Guy just keeps saying “I want to go back. Just let me go back.” We have his brother and girlfriend here. They said he was in a car accident a few weeks ago, and they lost him at the hospital for a couple minutes. Ever since they brought him back, they said he hasn't been the same.” The cop said. Kendrix was close enough to hear this and felt her own heart lurch a bit.

“Is there a negotiator?” Kelly asked.

“Five minutes.” The cop said. Chief Boden had walked up.

“We don't have time to wait. He has already seen us, we need to work fast, get something below him, Squad 3, try to get up there as quietly as possible, I don't want to spook this guy. Maybe one of us can talk him down.” Kendrix spoke up.

“Hey, I can talk to him.” Carter looked around, along with Boden and Kelly.

“Too risky. I can't let a civilian up there.” Boden said.

“Please. I probably know more than anyone here what he is going through. I can connect with him. Just give me a chance.” Boden looked at Carter.

“You alright with this?” He asked. Carter and Kendrix both looked at each other, a whole conversation going between them before Carter sighed.

“If she says she can do it, she can.” Boden sighed through his nose.

“Get a harness on her and get up there.” Boden said. Kelly and Cap brought over a harness with a long lead and Carter took over actually hooking Kendrix into it. As he tightened the straps and buckles, he looked at her.

“You sure about this?” He asked. Kendrix let out a breath, a little shaky due to nerves.

“Like I said, I know what he is going through.” She said. Carter sighed and gave the harness a final tug.

“We will be behind you the whole time. The second we see trouble, we are pulling you back.” He said. Kendrix nodded. They were now on the roof, and Kendrix was slowly walking towards the edge of the roof. The man was still standing there, and it was clear he was crying a little. He heard Kendrix coming up behind him and looked over his shoulder.

“Stay away!” He shouted. Kendrix stopped and held up her hands.

“My name is Kendrix, I just want to talk. Can I just come up next to you?” She said. The man grunted in annoyance.

“I just want to go back. Why can't you people understand that? I just want to go back there.” He said. Kendrix moved slowly forward, and then climbed up on the ledge next to the man. Carter tightened his hands on the lead.

“What does he mean by “go back”? Go back where?” Cruz asked in a low voice.

“He was in a car accident a few weeks ago. He was dead for a few minutes. He saw the other side and he wants to go back.” Carter said.

“How do you know that?” Cruz wondered, but Carter just stared ahead as Kendrix started talking again.

“Your brother said you were in a car accident and that you died, but they brought you back. What was that like?” She asked, trying to not let the wind buffet her around too much. The man sniffed a little.

“I was in this bright place, like looking at the sun, but it didn't hurt. It was soft and warm. I felt so good, so at peace with my life for the first time. I saw my grandpa, he died when I was in high-school, and I saw old friends and I was surrounded by so much love and peace. Then, I felt something pull me back, and suddenly, I was in the hospital.” He said.

“And the world seemed dimmer, less colorful, right? You feel like you don't belong here, you belong somewhere else? That you would give anything to feel that peace again?” Kendrix said. The man looked at her for the first time.

“How do you know?” He asked. Kendrix had to smile sadly.

“Because I was there. I was in that place, and I know what it's like to be pulled back. I felt like I didn't belong with my friends, I didn't belong in this world, that I was missing something. For a while, I also wanted to go back there. I still have dreams and nightmares.” She said, inching closer to the man.

“But you know what helped? I realized that I have friends that were devastated when I… left, and that they would be even more sad if I left again. That there was still beauty in this world, people who still cared about me. I got a boyfriend and we just moved to the city, and I feel like this world has so much more to offer.” The man took a breath.

“But my grandpa… we used to watch the sunset together.” He said.

“You can still enjoy the sunset. Your memory of your grandpa is still there, and I bet your brother would want to watch the sunset with you. Or your girlfriend.” Kendrix said. The man sighed, looking down towards the ground. Then, he nodded. Kendrix smiled, holding out her hand.

“Let's get off this roof and maybe we can both start talking to someone.” She said. The man nodded and took her hand. He started to turn, when his foot slipped, causing him to go over the edge, towards the street. Kendrix gripped his hand and couldn't help the scream as she was pulled over the edge with him, the harness squeezing the breath out of her, the weight of the man threatening to pull her shoulder out of her socket.

“Pull them back!” Boden shouted, and Squad 3 began pulling with all their strength.

“I don't want to die!” The man shouted.

“See, fight for that life!” Kendrix said as she held onto him, trying to pull him closer to her as she was pulled closer to the roof.

Finally, the two of them were pulled onto solid ground. Cruz and Kelly ran over to the man as Carter grabbed Kendrix in a crushing hug, pulling back to look her in the face.

“So, are we even?” Kendrix asked breathlessly, and Carter could help the little laugh as he pulled her into a hug again.

***

“You have a shoulder sprain, so you'll have to take it easy, and some bruising.” Foster said as Kendrix sat in the back of the ambulance.

“That was pretty impressive what you did. Ever think of doing Carter’s job?” Shaw asked, making Kendrix laugh until she winced.

“Oh no, I'll stick to my research and computers.” She said. Foster finished tending to Kendrix, then moved to stand in front of her, holding a card.

“I don't know all what was said up there, but I heard you say you knew what the guy was going through. There is a doctor at Chicago Med, a guy named Doctor Charles. He is a great person to talk to. Maybe give him a chance?” Kendrix took the card and smiled a little as Carter walked up. Foster moved off to give them a moment.

“Sorry the first time you heard me talk about that was talking a guy off a ledge.” Kendrix said.

“Hey, I told you, I will wait as long as it takes. You have nothing to be sorry for, I'm just glad you are alright.” He said, hugging her again. Kendrix sighed and melted into the hug, the painkillers Shaw had given her also kicking in. She would give this Doctor Charles a chance. Maybe it was time to really talk about this thing.

Chapter Text

Come on, Carter, it's time to get up.” Kendrix told the lump of blankets on the bed. The lump remained still, but spoke.

“I'm sick. I can't go into work today.” Kendrix sighed.

“You are not sick. If you were sick, you'd be a lot more whiny than now.” She said. Carter didn't say anything.

“It's Halloween. How can you want to miss Halloween?” Kendrix asked. This got a reaction out of Carter, who sat up.

“That’s why. I hate Halloween. All first responders hate Halloween. People usually don't need an excuse to act crazy. Halloween gives them an excuse to act extra crazy. I am going to be on back to back calls all night. Calling it now.” Carter said, but got up and changed into his uniform pants and shirt.

“So, all you can eat candy doesn't help?” Kendrix asked from the kitchen. Carter walked out, finger combing his hair into place. He stopped when he saw Kendrix dressed in her Galactic Power Ranger uniform, minus helmet. He looked her up and down.

“Not that I'm complaining, but why are you wearing your Ranger uniform?” Carter asked. Kendrix smiled and shrugged.

“Technically, it's a costume, no morphin required, so I'm using zero Grid energy. Second, I'm going with you to work to help hand out candy, so I need to look the part.” She said, holding two giant bags filled with smaller bags of candy. Carter shook his head, stealing a mini chocolate bar as he passed.

“You know, we used to make bets on how many kids would dress up as Power Rangers and whose color was the most popular. Jason and Tommy started the tradition, and I think they have won every single year.” He said.

“We did the same thing. Leo and Kai tied a few times, and Damon always had a few mini green Rangers. Not too many pink and even less of yellow, but Maya never minded.” Kendrix said as they walked out.

“Speaking of Tommy, he and Kat wanted to know if we were coming to the reunion in a few months?” She added. Carter shook his head.

“Sorry, but with this whole testing phase with Lightspeed, I can't really afford to take time off.” He said as they got into the car, the sunset painting the sky appropriate colors of orange and purple.

“That's too bad, but they will understand.” Kendrix said, taking out her phone and shooting a quick message.

*Somewhere on an alien world*

Tommy ducked as blaster fire screamed over head, his back, knees, and hips remaining him of his age as he took cover behind a rock. Kat joined him, exchanging fire with the enemy. A beep from her watch made her crouch down so she could check it.

“Damn.” She said. Tommy looked over.

“What's up?” He asked.

“Carter and Kendrix can't make it to the reunion.” She said.

“Ah, that sucks, but, I understand. Carter is busy.” Tommy said, leaning around his hiding spot to let loose a few bolts. There was another beep.

“Alright! TJ and Cassie are coming though. And you know Cassie will bring her Karaoke machine.” Kat said. Tommy smiled under his helmet.

“Now we have a party.” He said. Suddenly, a laser came crashing through their wall, skimming Kat on her helmet. Kat felt the spot.

“You almost took my head off! Son of a bitch!” She yelled, standing up and unleashing a hail of laser fire.

“Kat! Count to ten! Count to ten!” Tommy shouted.

*Back on Earth*

Carter had barely put his bag in his locker when Chief Boden came up.

“Grayson, I'm putting you with Ambulance 61 tonight. They need extra help and you have EMT training.” Carter had to resist the urge to bang his head on his locker. If he wasn't ready for a busy night, he really wasn't now. With Squad, there was the chance not too many people needed extractions. Now, he would be dealing with all sorts of medical calls, from stomach aches to drunk party goers.

As if the Fates were looking at him and decided his evening started now, the siren went off, announcing a call for Ambulance 61, a person fell off their roof. Brett and Foster smiled as he climbed into the back.

“Welcome to Ambo, Lightspeed.” Foster said as they turned out of the house.

“What does Kendrix think of you hanging out with us all night?” Brett asked as they drove to the location.

“Well, I haven't told her yet, but she isn't a jealous person and she knows I won't stray.” Carter said.

“I like it. A woman who has faith in her man and it's in the right place. That's a rare find.” Foster said.

“Lord knows I keep missing that sort of man. You have any Lightspeed co-workers that are single?” Brett asked. Carter couldn't help but laugh.

“Well, Joel is already in a very serious relationship, but I know he would love to send you guys some autographed Sky Cowboy pictures.” Carter said.

“Sky Cowboy?” Foster asked. Before Carter could explain the complex person that was Joel, they pulled up to the house. A man was lying flat on the ground, awake and alert, under a ladder, and a woman who was obviously his wife standing over him, looking more annoyed than worried.

“You called, ma'am?” Brett asked as Foster and Carter wheeled over the stretcher and a backboard. The wife sighed.

“I thought he fell off the roof hanging up some lights, when I heard him yelling in pain.” She said, then looked at her husband.

“Turns out, he fell off the second from the bottom rung of the ladder and threw his back out.” The husband grimaced, but managed a smile and a wave. Carter helped set the husband on the board and load him up.

“And just think, the night is still young.” Brett said as they signed out of the hospital.

*Back at the firehouse*

Kendrix was helping set up bowls of candy while chatting with Cindy Herman. Cindy took one look at Kendrix, and immediately invited both Carter and her to dinner with the Herman family, and if she needed anything, to not hesitate to ask. Christopher gave a half hearted apology for, as he put it, “letting my wife smother you with kindness.”

“Mouch, we said scary movies, not chick flicks.” Cruz complained.

“Hey, Trudy loves this movie, and I want to have more in common with her, but surprise her with it. So, it's just one movie, if I have to suffer, so do you guys.” Mouch said. Kendrix looked up to see what the movie was and promptly collapsed to the floor in a fit of laughter.

“Oh my God! I can't believe it got all the way back here!” She gasped between laughs. Everyone looked at her as she composed herself.

“That's my movie! That's me!” She said. Mouch looked at the TV and the DVD box.

“No it's not, that Carolyn Picketts. Trudy loves her movies.” Mouch said. Kendrix had picked herself back up and wiped her eyes.

“I know, and we look alike. Like, it is scary how much I resemble her, though when we are next to each other, you can tell the difference. But she had gotten hurt and her agent saw that I looked like her, so he had me take her place.” Kendrix explained. Otis was now looking intently at the screen.

“I think she's telling the truth. That does look a lot like Kendrix.” He said. Mouch took another look.

“I'm still not buying it.” He said. Kendrix shrugged.

“Alright. We still keep in touch, and I even have a replica of the trophy she won for this movie.” Kendrix said, walking away, sending a text to Carter to swing by the house and pick something up.

Chapter Text

By the time Carter actually made it back to the Firehouse, he had already gone on over a dozen calls with Ambulance 61. And almost half of those calls were from people who had way too much to drink. He did find the time to swing by the apartment, a little confused as to why Kendrix asked for the trophy but got it anyway. Kendrix didn’t say a word as she set the trophy down on the table in front of Mouch and went back to chatting with Cindy.

Carter had just sighed, putting up his feet and grabbing a mini-Kit-Kat, finally able to relax when the alarm rang for both Squad 3 and Ambulance 61 for an impalement. Carter groaned and got back up again.

The situation was a lot less serious than people thought. It was more of a neighbor dispute than a real emergency. It was a little serious, as the man up the tree did have a large branch protruding from his arm when he had slipped and fallen. However, he had only slipped and fallen when he had gone up his neighbor’s tree to remove the Halloween decorations that he found “distasteful”.

They loaded the critic into the Ambulance and dropped him off at Chicago Med, with his own personal police escort, and went back on the road.

“Does Lightspeed have any EMTs or Paramedics on their team?” Foster asked after the three stopped to pick up some quick, unhealthy, but delicious food to eat as they waited for the next call.

“Oh yeah. Dana is an EMT, she is down in New Orleans right now, doing the same thing I’m doing. Plus, we all get first aid, combat care under fire, triage, anything that can give those few extra minutes.” Carter said.

“Would we have to wear that fancy uniform? That thing looks like it will be uncomfortable on a hot day.” Brett said.

“They really aren’t. They are a pain when you have to go to the bathroom though. Found that out one day during a drill and I was in my suit, chugging water. Turns out, there is a cool down period between morphs, so I didn’t want to power down and have the whole team redo the drill.” He said, shuddering a little at the memory.

They cruised around, Carter asking about how things were in the city, fun things to do and all that, when they came across a truly frighting scene. Someone had been driving through the neighborhood, drunk by the looks of the route the driver took, up on the sidewalks, over garbage cans, and through front yards. Lucky, no children or adults were hit, their only injuries being from they dove out of the way. Some people were blocking the driver, who was still in his car, the car still on.

As the Ambulance loaded the first round of patients, the car accelerated, and the people dove out of way as the car tore off down the street. The police were still enroute, but Carter had an idea. When he had been giving his morpher again, he was told that a few of his extra tools were programed into it, including his Red Lightspeed Cycle.

“Tell dispatch I’m in pursuit! Lightspeed! Rescue!” Carter called out, already running after the car. In a flash, he was in his Ranger uniform, and in another, he was on his Cycle, sirens blaring. The car showed no signs of stopping or even slowing, and they were still in a suburban area. Carter knew he had to end this as quickly and safely as he could.

With careful aim, he blasted the back tires of the car, causing it to fishtail and slam into another car. Carter gritted his teeth, not wanting more damage, but there was nobody in the parked car, so he took it as necessary loss. The driver decided he still had a chance, got out and started running. Carter was close behind him; his Ranger form boosted his already impressive run time. He tackled the driver to the ground, just as a police car pulled up and an officer came up with handcuffs.

“Nice take down. Wanna switch to PD for a little bit?” The officer asked. The visor came up and Carter smiled.

“Nah, too much sitting around.” He said.

Finally, Carter made it back again to the Firehouse and almost threw himself in the chair. Kendrix smiled and gave him a kiss on the cheek, his smile louder than the laughter around him. Otis went out to greet a bunch of trick or treaters, and came back in.

“Kendrix, you might wanna see this.” Her and Carter came out and Carter started laughing while Kendrix was cheering a little. A Girl Scout troop had shown up, all dressed in some version of a Pink Power Ranger.

“Looks like you win the bet this year.” Carter said as he watched Kendrix hand out almost all the candy, complementing each girl on her costume, and they loved hers. Carter smiled. Maybe Halloween wasn’t so bad all the time. That thought was wiped out of his mind as another bell went off for the Ambulance. Maybe next year.