A/N: I've been waiting for weeks to do this lap. Rick is finally the first of Black Shadow's newest recruits! What would he do? How would Tinsel deal with this menace? Where would the confrontation be? How would Dark Million get involved? All of the answers are about to be unveiled!

Just a few moments ago, Luna Ryder won the Grand Prix in Fire Field. Thanks to the prize money, the process was sped up as Black Shadow was working on a dark solution which was originally created by him and Zoda. It was the same type of mind-controlling agent that affected Tinsel as she won the Hovercraft Hub competition. It was experimental, but being very persistent and determined, the demon decided to test it out on the Mobile Task Force. It was proven to be successful as he and Miss Killer watched Rick in a tank react to it. The fluid was inserted and his body began to convulse for a few minutes. Eventually, he became limp, then the container was drained, and the Death Soldiers gave him a quick makeover after carrying him out.

Rick began to come to and his body tightened while his hands clenched into fists. The first person he saw was Luna. "My dearest Rick. At long last we finally meet again." she said with a grin.

His pupils were enlarged as he gazed up at her. Even he was unusually fond on seeing her, in this...disturbing, yet assuring, place. He hadn't actually been here before, though the environment was somehow welcoming in a sense. And then there was Haruka, or rather Miss Killer, standing over him. Rick was reluctant as she gave him a hand. That feeling when he touched her was so...comforting, as if he belonged here all this time. He felt he was at home, reunited with his long, lost love.

"How I've waited for this day after 150 years." she whispered as she touched his cheek. Interestingly enough, he never flinched nor did he retaliate.

"So have I..." he was just as stunned as she was.

"Well, well." Zoda barged in, spoiling the mood. "Look what the black cat dragged in. Wheeler and Miss Killer, sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-"

"Zoda!" Rick lunged toward his nemesis. At least his grudge for him hasn't changed. He was still his trigger, pure and simple.

"That's enough blabbering, Zoda! We have just been acquainted to our new recruit. Show him some of our gratitude!" Thankfully, a vehement voice boomed as it interrupted the impending brawl.

Black Shadow scolded, "Stay away from him, for the moment. We have a deadly mission to accomplish here and we don't need your meddling."

"Eh, of course, Black Shadow." The crazed criminal chickened out as he scampered away from them. "I'll deal with you later, Wheeler." he said before he emerged into the shadows.

Rick didn't listen nor acknowledged as he saw the proud, diabolical being face to face. Without hesitation, he walked up to him, and the solution affected more of his body and mind. He had proven his loyalty when he bowed down to him. "Lord Shadow..."

"Indeed. Welcome to our headquarters in Dark Star. I'm delighted to make your acquaintance, Wheeler, as I've heard you are a dedicated F-Zero pilot. I actually had this brilliant idea from Zoda after altering Tinsel's mind. It seemed to have worked for a time, so I was lucky we have found you instead. As well as some of your friends..." he pointed to the other tanks, and the servant saw Jack and the others in their own corresponding containers. "You'll be seeing them very soon, Wheeler. And with your talent, Dark Million shall be so impassable, not even the dreaded bounty hunter, Falcon, can beat us." He stuck up a finger as Rick rose, "Oh. Have you noticed we've made some...rearrangements?"

A dim ray of light was shone a few feet away. On a ledge, the Dragon Bird stood; although, it was not the same. Instead of having its white exterior, it was all black combined with the red from the exhaust pipes and the roof. On that, there was an etching of a face of a snarling dragon, wearing Black Shadow's eyes. Plus the rear had a spike on each side, making it deadly on the tracks. "It is the Dragon Bird no more, Wheeler. Since it's your machine, what would you like to call it?" Luna faced him in anticipation, but he was astonished of his new outfit. This filled him with a deep sense of pride and identity. Looking at himself and then the more sinister machine, Rick declared it as "the Dark Star Dragon."

"An admirable choice, Rick." Luna commented. Black Shadow considered the same.

"There is an assignment that you must accept. You realize there's only one of the Task Force members that we hadn't inducted yet."

"...Tinsel."

"She's our greatest adversary yet next to Falcon. You know her well, Wheeler."

"Yes, Lord Shadow. She's quite a formidable opponent even when she races."

"We must cut her strings and her alliance with those other pilots. You know what you must do."

His voice deepened as his hand curled and his eyes narrowed, "I must...kill her. She will never stand a chance against me."

"I have also hired Miss Killer to do the job. She won't be an easy feat to take down alone."

She laid a hand on his shoulder. "A mission together, at last. We'll make sure that Tinsel will be vanquished for good." she declared. "It'll be our first time carrying out Dark Million's bidding as one." His grip tightened around her hand. And then a Death Soldier offered him some gloves he'd never seen. He put them on, they were also red and black much like the Dark Star Dragon. They, too, had an emblem of his master's face.

This looks and feels...amazing! Rick thought after he adjusted them. He was so fascinated with all the changes he'd experienced. And better yet, he was reunited with Haruka within the darkness. No pain, agony, nor pressure got in his way. He was almost invincible!

"Carry out the mission as Miss Killer instructs you, Wheeler. Tinsel must be exterminated at all costs. Do NOT hold back as she was a former friend of yours. And handle the Dark Star Dragon well. You must succeed, and only you can..."

"I will not fail you, Black Shadow. You can count on it." He gave a low bow. The demon disappeared, and the corrupt couple got to work.


Meanwhile, Tinsel was racing with her colleagues on the old Mute City course. This was actually the same one she used earlier before her race in Green Plant. It was modified from the first course in the Knight League 13 years ago with landmines and no jump plates. The turns were a lot sharper this time around. In order to stand a better chance against Black Shadow and his thugs, she figured the best place would be the track used as the first round during the King League. They all accepted the challenge; they unanimously thought it was a good way to toughen them up.

The Silver Comet crossed the finish line first, then the Mighty Typhoon, followed by the Space Angler, Hyper Speeder, and finally the Twin Noritta. Needless to say, it was last since it received the most damage. They each had a sigh of relief now that the race was done.

"Man, that was a tough one." Beastman remarked.

"It sure was..." Gomar and Shioh rubbed their heads.

"That was quite a decent practice run, Tinsel." Draq added.

"Yeah." Leon replied.

"I thought so, guys. I hope this would help us improve our skills for the next competition." Tinsel stated, still remembering the sore defeat in Fire Field. "We still need to book well in advance for it. I can't possibly win on my own, not after last time."

There was a chirp coming from her communicator. It was Clank, and he was so ecstatic. "Tinsel, I hate to interrupt, but you gotta see this!"

"Nah, it's ok, you didn't interrupt anything. What is it, Clank? Did you find something?" She barely hid her own enthusiasm.

"Yes I did. You gotta go to the Falcon House immediately! Hurry! It's urgent!" The signal ended just before she responded.

She took the walkie-talkie and said to the other racers they must head there asap. Leon asked, "What did he find? Is it from the Task Force? From Lucy?"

"I don't know, he didn't say. But, we must head to the Falcon House at once; he said it was urgent."

They soon arrived at the diner. And the tech geek nearly knocked her down as soon as she stepped in. "Tinsel, thank goodness. You have to come quick." He showed her a beacon that was emanating from some location on his tablet. It was trapped somewhere in Planet Alcatran, in some kind of desolate ice mountain. "The signal is emitting from a certain location in Alcatran...it's close to White Land."

The sound of that made her gasp. She would NEVER forget that horrid place. "Oh my gosh...This must be some kind of SOS signal. C-can you make out the machne?!"

"I can try." Clank scanned the beacon, and eventually there was a match as it outlined the vehicle it belonged to.

Her heart raced as she saw it. "Ah, it's Rick! I hope he's all right."

"Rick? You must hurry along, Tinsel." Burt said anxiously.

"I will. But, I'm bringing Leon with me. If you don't mind."

"No problem. Besides I can help you track him with my nose; it won't be easy trying to find someone trapped under all that ice and snow. I can handle it just fine."

"Thanks." She gave him a pet of appreciation. "I owe you one."

"Nah, we're even."

"Please save Rick, Tinsel and Leon. I'm not sure how long he'll stand out." Clank begged.

"Don't worry, he's tough. I should thank you greatly for finally receiving a signal from him."

"C'mon, let's boogie." the bipedal canine barked.

"Right. Let's go."

The others stayed put since their machines needed some fine tuning. So the Comet and the Angler were the ones to set foot into the most treacherous area of her troubled past. Since it was for her best friend, she couldn't let her fears interfere.


Through the warp gate, they felt a slight chill. The Comet was accustomed to extreme environments, and Leon's fur kept him warm. Still, Tinsel was shivering both from the freezing air and her nervousness. They continued to follow the signal Clank gave them on their locators. They've kept nearing the mountain within every second. Thankfully, there wasn't a blizzard greeting them. Although, they had to watch for any patches of black ice.

"Almost there, Leon. Hang in there, Rick."

"Keep your fingers crossed. I hear that humans can't be exposed for too long; it's pretty deadly. His best chance is to stay in his machine."

They were so focused on the signal and the slippery ground that they didn't notice an oncoming machine slam into Tinsel from behind. "Whoa! What the hell was that?!" Upon close examination from the rear view on the dashboard, which was giving a warning, it was...

"That's...the Dragon Bird?!" She was completely astonished as she saw it's new, more sinister look. Suddenly, it was upon her. "Leon! It's Rick! He's been brainwashed by Black Shadow!"

"What?! So the rumors were true, after all! Argh!" His craft was also crashed into by someone else. Leon had his hands full with another vehicle hitting him. It was the Moon Shadow. And Miss Killer just sneered at her unfortunate targets.

The Dark Star Dragon rammed Tinsel again. She couldn't take anymore punishment. "You go and distract Miss Killer, I'll take on Rick! She's dangerous, be careful!"

"I will! Brace yourself, Tinsel!" He bared his fangs and faced his enemy. There were no pit areas or speed plates along the two paths, so they had to rely on their wits and luck. Considering he had better handling on the black ice, he had the advantage, along with his sharp reflexes. Even though they had the same speed, and his body was weaker than hers. As she kept sliding, it was his golden opportunity to side attack her. Then, as she was closing on his tail, he performed a spin attack which was more constant, causing the Moon Shadow to collide and go out of control. Thanks to the black ice, it was temporarily out of commission, allowing Leon to catch up to Tinsel and Rick. He headed back as he skidded and sped away.

Tinsel was lucky she was able to use her booster, but Rick was always nipping her tail. She wanted to get ahead and stay away from him until she got to the mountain. The boost sacrificed some of her energy, but it was very little compared to the abuse the Comet endured. He constantly used the Dark Star's strength and kept on bashing her. As she headed straight to the mountain she finally hit an ice wall as she spun out from another merciless direct hit.

Both her car's body, and her own, were battered. She was blinded by the headlights as they refracted from the walls. She was like a deer, stunned by them. Closing in for the kill Rick made a sneer as he tightened his grip on the wheel. The sound of his death-bringing declaration echoed throughout the mountain's interior, "Time for you and your Comet to make an icy tomb, Tinsel! Yaaaahh!"

"Rick..? You cannot-no! No!" Desperate to bring him back and to save her skin, she slammed her fists on the thrusters and unleashed the ice jets, nearly freezing the Dragon on contact! It only made a blockade covering the nose of the machine.

Still having an appetite for destruction he opened the hatch and jumped out, just as Tinsel left hers. She couldn't believe what she was seeing as she looked at his malevolent appearance. Using his new shoes, he didn't mind the ice as they had better friction than normal ones. The cold air was nothing to him as he breathed heavily like a dragon, and smoke left his mouth.

Tinsel wasn't as fortunate, she was freezing from the frigid temperature and fear. "Rick..? Rick?!"

With all his might, he charged straight toward the terrified pilot. She covered her eyes and she hardly noticed Leon being involved in the scrimmage as he wrestled with him.

"Leon!" she cried after uncovering her vision. She could do nothing except watch her two best friends shed their blood.

The anthropomorphic leaped and tackled him to the ground. They've rolled for a few seconds then he fought him off with his fangs and claws. Rick kept him at bay and kicked him off, then Leon rolled and bit hard on his arm. Rick managed to swipe him with his free arm, and Leon let out a low howl. He tried again, but he missed as Rick moved. He retaliated and threw him aside, toward the spiky structure. He went down on all fours, and a gash was in his lower back.

"Leon!" Tinsel screamed in as much agony as him.

Seeing the damage he caused, Rick just stood over him, took out his gun, and said, "I will put you down and ease your suffering. Meet your death...for Black Shadow!"

"Leon! Noo!" Tinsel got involved as she ran toward the manic detective making a stranglehold. Rick dropped the gun from his fishy grip then he grabbed onto her hands and threw her down over his shoulder. His strong hands were crushing her windpipe, but she managed to kick him in the groin. "Agggh!"

Vulnerable, she punched him across the face and took him down. She punched him again and Rick actually stopped when his pupils shrunk to their normal size. She was about to land another punch on him, but he held her shaking hand back. Gazing straight into her eyes...

"Tinsel..?" She soon got off of him after she looked at his, and they both stood in shock. "I-is it really you?"

"Rick..?" her voice let out a raspy whisper. He nodded in confirmation, but she backed off. "N-no! I...I know it's you, but... You-you're a part of Dark Million, aren't you?"

"I...I was. But you saved me." he said as he was rubbing his swollen cheek. His arm wasn't any better as it burned from Leon's deep fang marks. He held it for a few brief seconds. She looked at him skeptically and didn't say a word, still thinking he was playing a trick. "Ergh. Please, I can explain everything. But not here, it isn't safe; this place was known to house some of the galaxy's most dangerous criminals, including Zoda. This was his secret hideout after Black Shadow invaded here. We must evacuate now, before Miss Killer will return." There was a pregnant pause. His voice softened despite the pain. "Tinsel, you have to trust me. Just as we did before. Look past the dark uniform, and see me for who I truly am. A friend."

She took a deep exhale, then looked at Leon who got on his feet and held the wound. It was deep, but at least he wasn't bleeding profusely. Eventually, she accepted. "Alright, I'll go with you. But I'm taking Leon with me just in case."

"Fair enough. I'll lead you two out of here. Follow me."


The Dark Star Dragon led the Comet and the Angler to a warp gate. They soon materialized in the outskirts of Mute City.

"Are you sure we should listen to Rick? I could still smell some vile from him." His back was healing thanks to a cloth Tinsel had. With the Comet's ice jets, it was always a quick way to recuperate.

"I used to vouch for him, but I can't be certain."

Rick barely heard the conversation, and he became glum. Despite that, he kept his resolve. "This is the spot." After they parked near the apartment complex, she told Leon to wait a few feet away, while Rick recapped the events:

Not much was known about the Task Force's disappearance. Not even the commissioner knew. But before they went missing Rick, out of curiosity, wondered whatever happened to his loved one, Haruka. Was she really gone? If so, what happened to her? Could she be working for Dark Million after all? To find the answers he looked up the archives from 150 years ago. And what he found shocked him to the core...

According to the obituary, it was said that Haurka died from a broken heart; at least it was what it seemed. On that night, when Rick was involved in that tragic accident chasing the escaped convict, Zoda, Haruka was devastated. He remembered breaking his promise not showing up at the Brooklyn Bridge and later make the proposition. She ended up in another accident shortly after Zoda was finally apprehended and banned into Planet Alcatran. Rumors kept circling around Rick's fate, some say he was dead, but not many said he was in cold sleep. Haruka, under her weak breath, actually wanted to join him when he awakens, if he really was in cryo-suspension which she strongly believed. She was also inactive, unfortunately she wasn't able to recover. Her wounds were too great, and the time of death was declared during her loss.

After finding out the truth, Rick's heart was broken, even tears started to fall. "Haruka... She's gone..." He left the Task Force behind discreetly, and he lost his will to race or even cope. He kept asking why would his lover do such a desperate attempt to end her life? Why was he the only one who lived through it, despite Zoda? Later, while he was hiding away within an empty alley, Dark Million ambushed him, though he lost his will to fight. Luna was there, as was Zoda, but they never killed him. Bio Rex and The Skull were holding him back. Luna stabbed him with the same knife she used before, making him weaken more. As Rick looked at Luna, he saw a glimpse of "Haruka..."

"Don't ever call me that!" she retorted. Then, they knocked him out and inserted a dark solution into his neck. It was a coordinate that connected the spine to the brain, making him one of the first servants for them. As it happened, the Task Force disbanded, looking for him. But their fate was still unknown. Until he was able to see Jack and the Task Force at Dark Star, but not for very long.

After Rick left in remorse, Tinsel told the tale to Leon.

"So that's why it happened." he said. "He lost his will to fight after finding out about Haruka? What a waste." He shook his head. "And his friends must be there, too."

"He does keep blaming himself. But, with Rick on our side, we can find a way to get them back and stop Dark Million. He's our only hope."

"And that's why you risked your neck pursuing him. He means a great deal to you, doesn't he? You really believe that."

"I do. Rick is the one who can help us achieve victory, him and Falcon." She wished that he would recover eventually. "I must stay with him for the night. He really needs someone."

Leon put a paw on her hand. "Go to him. I'll be fine, we'll be waiting for you."


Meanwhile Rick was discarding his uniform and replaced it with the usual red T; he hoped that Tinsel would freeze it all with the Comet's ice jets and soon break the remains, as they were painful reminders of how he used to be. He had never worked for evil before, and through his painful pangs, he knew firsthand how it felt. The guilt, the weakness and the impulses, the flashbacks on what he'd done; they were as clear as day and very intrusive. To clear his head and rinse the dark, inky residue from his eyes, he dunked his head into a running faucet. As he dried, he headed to his bedroom. It was homelike, yet somehow he felt he wasn't there in a good, long while. He instantly wondered where he put his memos, hoping they weren't stolen by Dark Million. He had such a relief as he saw the portrait of him and Haruka, the golden locket, and the engagement ring safe and intact.

He grabbed the velvet case, opened it, and gazed at its luster. The diamond was shining, just like Haruka's eyes did so long ago... Then, his mind drifted to all the happy times he spent with her: from just hanging out and dating, to her endless support after he won and lost each race he participated in, even the cruise they took. His heart began to soar.

Until the images in his head became distorted and omniscient. He was in complete fright as he saw Miss Killer replacing her innocence, as well as the accident Zoda caused before he was put into cold sleep. Even the fight he had with Tinsel and Leon. His head throbbed and his arm stung, and he held the former tightly with both hands, trying to resist the agony and the hallucinations. He shook his head and opened his eyes, his sight was blurry but he was back in his room again. Then, from the resistance his body and mind started to weaken. His strength dissipated little by little, and he felt so lost as he saddened. Until he literally passed out from the mounting fatigue.

Tinsel was lucky they both shared the same complex, but different apartments. It wasn't too hard to find his, even in the dark halls. She opened the door slowly and saw Rick sound asleep on the bed close to the plasma screen. It was inactive for weeks. He never heard her knock. She was so restless and so she wanted to pay him a visit, though, she felt a little guilty to barge in with her PJs. Still she gathered some courage and whispered his name. "Rick..?"

He stirred and rose up slowly to see who was speaking to him. "Tinsel..?" he asked groggily. Even he never saw her in that fashion.

"Can I...stay with you tonight? Or perhaps sleep next to you?"

He grinned and nodded his ascent. "Of course." He invited her to climb in. They dosed off after a few seconds as they snuggled into their welcoming arms.

The next morning, he decided to visit "an old friend." She had her answer as he took her inside the Dark Star Dragon to the Falcon House. Clank was very enthusiastic to see him, as he thought he was gone forever. So did Burt.

"I'm glad you found him, Tinsel."

"Actually, he was the one who found me first." They smiled to each other. Rick asked her to give them some privacy and she and Clank went to another part of the diner while having breakfast. She described the new friends she met. She couldn't wait to show Rick.

Still, he lamented over the past ordeal. And with just the two of them, they cannot win. "Who said it only has to be the two of us, Rick?" she asked. He looked at her in awe. "I've made some friends while you were gone." She explained of Octoman's so-called appreciation at Green Plant, but he never appeared again. She clarified that he's only working for Dark Million and has an outstanding criminal record, just because he needs money to support his war-torn family, and protect himself from the Milky Way Federation. Rick said he's a target since he's considered a threat, but somehow Tinsel convinced him otherwise as she recapped the Grand Prix a year ago, while she worked with Captain Falcon. She, Clank, and Burt also discussed all the races she and her allies competed in, including her defeat in Fire Field. Both of the guys were stunned as they saw the black machine Rick owned, and what Black Shadow did to it.

A few hours have passed, and she wanted to show Rick her new buddies. Clank grinned, "I'm glad you made it back in one piece, Rick."

"Me too." They did a fist bump, and Tinsel led him the way. The kid was still a bit uneasy as he looked at the Dark Star Dragon. He hoped he'll turn it back to the way it was.

She later showed Leon and the others to him at the old Mute City track, where they were waiting for them. Most of the pilots, he already knew, except for the two young men: The one with the weird spiky hair, and the guy who remarkably had the same name as him. They were all delighted to see the missing champion in person. Rick couldn't be more amazed to meet Draq, Gomar and Shioh, Yugi and Joey, Beastman, and of course Leon. He wanted to have no hard feelings, especially after biting his arm. Rick forgave him, but he wasn't sure about the Furikake people since he knew they were criminals. Tinsel assured him they've been put on probation after bail, just to make sure they wouldn't steal anymore car components n a desperate attempt for cash-ins. At first, the Duelists didn't come to Tinsel's aid since they were too busy fighting Dartz and the Great Leviathan.

Everyone could all relate to the fallen hero's sudden realization: Leon with the possibility on losing the pups at Zou, Joey with his younger sister, Yugi with his grandfather, Draq with his partner Roger Buster, and Gomar and Shioh losing each other as well as their clan. Since they all had a common goal Tinsel declared they must fight together. And that Rick is in charge.


But she wasn't done yet. She also took Rick to see Rodney Stewart, someone whom he didn't know. He was surprised that Dr. Robert Stewart never mentioned a son, one who is a prestigious physicist but not a F-Zero racer. She made an appointment at around the afternoon for an introduction.

"Ah, Tinsel. Glad to see you've returned. Is the formula safe?" Rodney said as he saw her and Rick go into his office.

"Yes, it is. Your father doesn't know it yet; I hadn't gotten the chance to see him."

"He could still be with Dark Million, as their asset." the detective said, more to Tinsel.

Rodney turned grim. "I hope he'll be out of that bind soon..." His face brightened as he turned to him. "But at least you got Rick back, so there's still hope. As far as I know, he's one of the most promising pilots in the circuit next to my old man."

"Thanks. That means a lot." Rick smiled and nodded.

"Come, this way." Rodney lend him a hand to the examination bed, with Tinsel close behind. "I need to give you a thorough checkup to see if you're still tainted. I was really surprised you were able to snap out of Dark Million's control and not receive the formula my father made. But now's the time, we must proceed at once."

He prepared himself for the procedure. Tinsel handed him the syringe with its sharp point protected. Rick started to cringe a little at the sight of it. Sensing his slight alarm, he assured him, "Just try and relax, Rick. It won't take long." He used the stethoscope and also examined the arm where Leon bit him. He then scanned it and he was grateful the wound wasn't infected, nor had rabies. When the examination was complete, Rodney grabbed a wet cotton ball and applied it to Rick's upper neck. Then, he began the insertion. "This might feel...a bit weird." Tinsel laid her hands on his as he stuck the sharp point into him. The fluid was injected a few seconds later, making him feel a temporary pang and some numbness. By the time it was done, Rodney removed the needle slowly from the site and covered it up with a bandage.

She asked if Rick was alright, and he just gave her a slow nod.

"You might want to rest before you get the full effect. It's likely your mind could short-circuit if you manage to stay awake." Facing Tinsel, he asked, "Tinsel, would you stay with him?"

"Of course."

Minutes later a spare pillow and a blanket were brought in. Rick began to feel lightheaded in a matter of seconds as he felt something inside his skull, kind of like a buzz. Then it was almost like an anesthetic as he dosed off. Tinsel could've sworn she heard him mumble about feeling the same thing as he went into cold sleep.

"Your mind is being cleansed from whatever toxins are left over. Rest, Rick; you'll wake up soon." Rodney said in a soothing tone.

"Let's hope...it won't be for another...150 years..." He became very still, and Tinsel caressed his hands.

"Thanks for all your help, Doc."

"It's the least I can do, Tinsel. We all need him well again. And the other members of the Task Force. Have you found them yet?" She shook her head. "Don't give up. Finding Rick was quite a start." he praised. "I could see why you love him so much."

"What? How do you-"

"Don't blame yourself. The heart is all that matters. You should pay attention on what it says. Do not doubt yourself and be contradicted. You must follow what's important to you. You might want to tell him."

"I was nervous at first, since he was still suffering from Survivor's Guilt, and the fact that he lost Haruka after being comatose for so long."

"I believe you should express how much you care for him after he awakens. Always follow your heart, Tinsel. He may have some feelings for you too."

"I... I hope so." She highly doubted he would ever be ready.


Meanwhile, Rick heard a cheery female voice whisper to him, though he couldn't make it out. He saw a little light at the end of a tunnel where he felt lonely and hopeless. By the time he looked at it and kept listening to it, he recognized who it belonged to. "That voice..." He emerged and it began to blind him temporarily, until he saw her smiling face. "Haruka..." They've made a warm embrace and he held her tight, never wanting to let her go. Her face turned serious as they broke off.

"Is there something wrong?" he asked with concern.

"Rick. I can be with you only for this moment. We cannot stay here for too long. There is still so much at stake. And you will wake up soon."

"Haruka...why am I here?" He couldn't tell if he was dead or not, probably still under the anesthetics. So, perhaps he was only dreaming.

"Rick, you must listen to me. My spirit has left my body 150 years ago. That woman named Miss Killer was a byproduct from Black Shadow. He was the one who reanimated my vessel and transformed it into an abomination."

Seeing him in shock, she grabbed and caressed his hands. "Dark Million must be stopped for good, and the galaxy must be saved. Otherwise...I cannot find rest." she sulked. "You're the only one who could do this, Rick. I know you will. But you mustn't do it alone. Tinsel and your friends are the only ones who're willing to fight by your side."

"I know. I will save them." His grip tightened.

She opened and looked into his eyes. This was something that was hard to say. "She needs you now, more than ever."

"Ah, Haruka..." He couldn't believe what she just said.

"Do not grieve for me. I've watched over you for the last century and a half. I can take care of myself up here. But you still need someone by your side. And that someone, is Tinsel. You gave your love to me, now share it with her. I want you to be strong as she can help heal your wounds. Please, Rick, give her a chance, and prevent Black Shadow from succeeding at all costs."

He nodded with a small grin. "I will."

"Whatever you do, do not let Miss Killer intimidate you. Just remember..." she reached for his shoulders. "One day, we will be reunited. But until then, my spirit will always be with you in your heart. Do not let it be tainted again." She kissed him on the cheek, and then they gave a deep smooch to each other. As she released him one last time, his body started to fade. She said with a smile, "Go in peace, Rick."


Tinsel was there when Rick woke up in recovery. His eyes cleared and he saw Tinsel laying over him from the right side. He also gazed upon the locket and the ring next to him on the nightstand. He felt Haruka's kindred spirit in his heart where she said she'll stay, hence the warmth. His body was almost completely immobilized from the anesthetics, and he was just as groggy. "Tinsel..."

She nodded and grinned at him. "It's great to have you back, Rick. How're you feeling?"

He hadn't felt this way before, so calm-minded and mellow. He figured it was just the chemicals, and that they'll wear off in time. "How long was I out of it?"

"About 10 hours. We...actually missed a race."

His face was in total shock. "...What?"

"I'm kidding. We never missed a thing. At least you weren't asleep for another century and a half."

Rick started to raise his hands and move them. He felt his body getting stronger. He sat up slowly, his head swam a little.

"Oh, someone has been wanting to see you."

"Hi, Rick." A child's voice spoke.

"Clank."

"Great to see you're still alive and kicking." They all giggled. "But, I have some bad news. One of the latest machines had just enlisted in the next race, the Astro Robin."

"Jack!" Rick exclaimed.

"Is he a part of Dark Million?" Tinsel asked in horror.

"I'm assuming he is. You have to enter and get him back. The Space Angler will be there, too."

"Thank goodness. Leon will really help us out. We have to go there. Where is it?" she queried.

He grinned. "It's actually in Rick's former hometown; in Aeropolis." They were both relieved and excited.

"We can definitely win this one. I didn't know you lived there, Rick. I thought it was in Mute City, err, New York."

"I moved there when I was young. I lived pretty close actually." he said in confirmation.

"Oh, you gotta see it! It has literally transformed! I'd practiced once in the Ruby Cup last year, and I loved it ever since! The courses are like 30,000 feet above, and the view is just dramatic as you cruise through them, even alongside those mega skyscrapers!" Tinsel beamed.

"This place is incredible; did you know it is being run on a supercomputer? The Mother-Q is the central unit that provides the community in an ideal living environment, and its skyscrapers can regenerate and breed new ones, suiting their ever-increasing population." Clank analyzed.

Rick was undoubtedly enthralled by this, and he couldn't wait to see what it's like. "I hope this would help you appreciate our time a bit more." Tinsel said.

"It already has."

It was nightfall by the time they finally left the hospital, at around 10pm. Rodney wished the trio luck, and reminded Tinsel she must use the syringe on any of the Task Force members they'd come across. "Do not let my father know about this; please keep it safe. It must not fall into the wrong hands."

"We won't." Rick and Tinsel said in unison. The young Stewart successfully made a replica of the formula so she could use it multiple times.

Rick noticed the Dark Star Dragon was missing, as it wasn't in the same place where he left it. Clank admitted that while he was asleep, he called Tinsel and some of her friends to give him a big surprise. The Silver Comet was docked in the lot just a few feet down. She confirmed it was true on what the prodigy did, and he wasn't the one who hacked into it, but repaired it.

In the garage at HQ, some parts of the Dragon Ghost replaced those from the Dark Star Dragon. To Rick, it was pretty much the same. The white body was back, and the portions with the creepy colors and designs were scrapped away.

He touched it delicately. "We've been through a lot together. Yet it feels like...so long ago..."

Clank managed to tweak its settings and restore it to how it used to be. Rick was very astonished that it had decent components from the Dragon Bird and the Dragon Ghost.

"Now you got the best of both time periods in one machine!" Tinsel chirped.

"Yeah! I really like this! Thanks, Clank."

"No problem, Ricky. Glad I can help, and I really appreciate you returning to our side."

"I can't wait to give it a test run." Rick said excitedly.

"Well...It's kind of late, don't you think? It's already half past ten." Tinsel looked at her watch and yawned. "Besides, spending all these hours at Rodney's place can take it's toll; it's such a grind."

"I can see that." Clank replied. "I should get going. You'd best be careful, you two. Dark Million might be looking for you guys."

"Good point." Rick said. "I'll try and enhance the safeguards around here. We really need someplace to set up shop."

Tinsel thought for a second to invite Leon, Beastman, Draq, the Duelists, and Gomar and Shioh in here, but she disregarded the idea as the headquarters were meant for Task Force members only. Tinsel thought for a second to invite Leon, Beastman, Draq, the Duelists, and Gomar and Shioh in here, but she disregarded the idea as the headquarters were meant for Task Force members only. She found a comfortable couch to lay on. After he made the safety protocols about an hour has passed. Rick saw her rest once more, then he went in the closet and laid a thick blanket on her. She moaned as she held it closely. He continued to watch over her. "Everything will be alright." he whispered as he laid a hand on her. "I will stay with you, so you can rest." He paused for a bit and promised to protect her.

While she slept, Rick was like the night owl, as he stayed up until the crack of dawn.

The next morning was the day for the big race, as well as their training, in Aeropolis. Tinsel met Rick in the garage, fine and dandy. "Ready to give the slightly modified Dragon Bird a spin, Rick?"

He smiled with a thumbs-up, "You bet, Tinsel. I'm back and better than ever!"

She nodded. "That remains to be seen. Meet me on the track."


They wound up at Multiplex, and Rick was nothing short on being overwhelmed by this amazing aerial metropolis. As they closed in on the course, the machines ascended higher and higher, until they were slightly above the clouds. There were also some small advanced planes and hover cars flying around the gorgeous scenery. And according to Clank's research, Rick as a kid actually lived at the location before it was named Aeropolis back in 2051.

The Silver Comet and the Dragon Bird arrived on the track, and it was a one-on-one race. He and Tinsel were both enamored as they whizzed through the thin metal track using the numerous speed plates. They also needed to watch out for landmines, although if they'd hit one directly, they could get a boost. It was incredibly exhilarating when they used the single jump plate on the side as well as the drop they came across. Not even the dirt roads hindered the thrilling experience! They've competed who would complete the course the fastest, using all the gimmicks and their boosters. It didn't matter who won, and they made sure they weren't too reckless where they would fall off course or crash into a nearby building; they knew in advance those weren't for show. They made three laps, and at one point, Tinsel could've sworn they were flying as they kept leaping off the ramp with a sudden boost, just how a comet, and a dragon, or bird, should!

Soon enough, it was over. Both machines stopped and the pilots were still ecstatic as they attempted to calm themselves. "Wow! That was incredible! I hadn't had this much fun on ANY F-Zero track! We're definitely gonna nail the next one!" Tinsel cried.

"I couldn't agree more, Tinsel!" Rick added.

By the time they collected their bearings, he told her more about Haruka. "I remember racing with her; we, too, had some fun times together."

"Really? She used to be a talented driver, as well? What was she like back then?"

She was known as the racing queen back in 2051. They competed against each other, but only during practice runs. They never did it during the Big Apple tournaments, unlike today. He also said that he fell in love with her as they had so much in common, including racing, and she was fascinated that he was both a talented competitor and police officer. He met her when she was twenty-one, her mom was a fashion designer, and her dad was a diplomat. They grew closer and closer as they saw each other more, even during races. She was the one who carried him forward when he won, or even lost as an amateur. It was no wonder that Black Shadow recruited her, rather than just bringing back someone from his past. But being with Tinsel reminded him of those times; they were so similar that maybe...

The alarm chirped on the Dragon Bird's dash, interrupting his reverie.

"Oh, we should get going. The next race is about to start. We cannot be late."

"I'll be right behind you, Rick!"

And so they were off. They both hoped that things wouldn't take a turn for the worst. Especially for Jack and the remaining members of the Task Force, Rick feared.

A/N: The Aeropolis Multiplex was one of my all-time favorite courses from GX. The Dark Star Dragon has three meanings: Dark Million's turf is known as Dark Star, this symbolizes Rick's alter ego after being brainwashed by Black Shadow, and it's an homage to the same name of a team in Mutant League Football. Plus the mixture of the black and reds tend to make both Rick and his machine have a more sinister appearance, and without counting the cape and helmet, it could be a similar look to Shao Khan, albeit shorter and thinner. Being that Rick was under Black Shadow's influence, it's a survival mission covered in black ice, and the Dragon's body's been enhanced to the A rank, while his other stats haven't changed. "The Chase is on!" plays as the Dark Star Dragon attempts to kill Tinsel, while the White Land theme from GP Legend plays as she and Leon pursue him.

"The Promised Land" from Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children plays as Rick has been reunited with Haruka. As for the golden locket Rick has, I'm planning to describe it during the holiday season. Hopefully I'll get to that soon.

So far, I think this is one of my favorite laps in this fic. I was looking forward to have Rick reunited with Tinsel, as well as have some insight from Haruka's kindred spirit. I think their relationship is really starting to bud here. I figured it was a cool idea combining the parts from the Dragon Bird and Ghost. So, Jack is next. Will Tinsel, Rick, and Leon succeed, or crash and burn?