Archive of Our Own

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Can you guys believe we've gotten this far? I mean, I can't. I keep a record of pretty much everything, I started this back on the 23 of January and now here we are, in December practically with the final season of Voltron.Be prepared, I have cried several times writing this.It will also come out earlier than planned. It's currently 3 in the morning and I just finished the last chapter and I really can't wait. Like, I kinda wanna post them all at once but then you don't get to enjoy any of the cliffhangers. Once a day will have to do.Quick shoutout to those who have given kudos, comments and made bookmarks. I love every notification I get, really and you guys make my day. I write for myself, but I publish these for you.If you look in the tags, there are spoilers but I wrote this for a reason. Everyone gets their happy end, justice is served and life goes on. And this is my longest collection to date with the most words and chapters so be ready for that as well.With that, I present, Season Eight of Voltron, Guardian of the Stars!

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Shiro waited in the silent room, just watching Adam’s face.He still couldn’t believe it, Adam was alive, he was right here. He was okay.He was still recovering memories and the doctors said some things would never come back because of the trauma. Adam couldn’t remember the day of the attack or the day before, but he was slowly remembering things from their youth.They had talked one night after Adam remembered their fight. Shiro knew it was coming and he held his breath, unsure if their rocky relationship would be able to continue.“I was so mad at you, Takashi.” They sat on opposite sides of the table, the space between them feeling much too large to Shiro. “I don’t remember all that led up to it, but it felt like you were leaving me behind. That your life was more important than our future. But really, I think I was terrified that you wouldn’t come back, and I would be, left behind, broken. I was so scared, Takashi.”“I know and I’m sorry. I, I’ve felt limited by the ALS for years before this and I felt like everything was ending. If I didn’t do this mission, I’d be worthless. I didn’t think about you and I’m sorry.”Adam shook his head, a soft smile on his face. “Can, can we try again?”“Yes.” Shiro said before Adam had even finished talking.They had been given a second chance, Shiro wasn’t going to let Adam slip through his fingers again.Though he hoped this restart would grow, that he could have Adam again and have a home. He loved Adam with all his heart, Voltron hadn’t changed that at all. If anything, it made the need to have Adam stronger. Or maybe, that was just Kuron talking.After that, Adam’s prosthetics were confirmed. They weren’t as advanced, everything built from Earth tech but it would give Adam something to walk with and a hand as well. Shiro joked that he was a pirate, with the damaged eye and pegleg look. Adam hit him with a book.The surgery was a long one, they were attaching nerves for Adam to use the new arm while the leg needed to be able to respond to movements as well. He was still sleeping, but Shiro had a meeting to organize. The Atlas was launching tomorrow, and Shiro would be there as the Black Paladin.“I’ll be right back, I promise, Adam.” He bent down, lightly kissing Adam’s forehead before leaving the hospital wing.The room was full of people, Commanders, cadets, chiefs, rebels, Blades, and Coalition members. The Paladins and Chiefs got to sit at the table with Admiral Iverson at the head while everyone else stood in the back. Shiro joined Allura at the front, addressing the room.“Everyone, welcome to our final briefing here on Earth. It’s been several months since we began to rebuild, and tomorrow we launch and continue our liberation efforts across all planets till under dictator rule.”{“I would like to thank all who have joined our team, once again reforming the Voltron Coalition. It is wonderful seeing so many familiar faces and I am glad to see new faces willing to fight for our cause. The Galra are no longer our enemies, but we cannot stand while they enforce themselves onto innocent systems. We will free the people, but we will avoid killing Galra citizens as much as possible.”}The good news was that with these ‘aliens’ joining them, translators began to be necessary to wear and Allura was finally able to speak in her native tongue. Shiro was glad to put the human judgement behind and anyone who didn’t accept a translator was stuck to figure out the conversation themselves.{“Commander Holt, what is the latest from your team?”}“We’ve confirmed that there is minimal Galra activity within our Galaxy. Our reports say most of these attacked planets either had no life or they gave up willingly. There won’t be much we can do in the Milky Way.”{“Where are we with Earth’s defenses?”} Allura stepped back and Shiro caught her eye.“We’ve finished our check-ins with all the Garrison facilities around the globe. The Paladins and I have confirmed that all defenses are up and running. Earth had everything in place to stay safe.”{“Wonderful. Lieutenant McClain, how is the Atlas?”}“Repairs to the IGF-Atlas were completed early last week and it has since passed every test protocol we’ve put it through.”{“What of the people? Rebels, Blades, and humans alike have been living together for some time now, how are they responding?”}Kolivan stepped forward, speaking for the non-humans in the room. [“Relationships are well. It seems with the loss of life on Earth, the number of people coming looking for work are appreciated. Though the process to live here is long, the cities here seem to be recovering well.”]Allura let out a sigh, visibly relaxing. With how she was treated when they first arrived, he understood why she was so anxious.“I have one more item to discuss.” Shiro took charge again. “It’s our last night on Earth and we’ve got a lot of hard work ahead of us. We might not be back home for years. So, I’m telling you one piece of advice.“Take some time for yourselves. Be with the ones you love, enjoy a restful night. Until tomorrow, don’t think about the mission to come. Be in the present. That is all.”Everyone filed out of the room and Shiro stayed, watching them go. Most would be joining them on the mission to come and Shiro wasn’t sure if he was ready for this.They hadn’t talked about it, not really. Shiro mentioned that Voltron was still needed in this fight and Adam just hummed, thinking about it. Their relationship was just starting, and Shiro didn’t want Voltron to make things worse.Iverson was last with him, shaking Shiro’s hand before they split up. Shiro made his way back to the medical bay. He didn’t have any other plans than helping Adam adapt to new prosthetics. Shiro knew plenty about the change it took.When he opened the door, Adam was already up, one hand touching the new gray and orange arm while his leg was extended on the bed. Even though he was practically blind in one eye, Adam would only wear his glasses. He said they fit well with the new hearing aid he had made.“Up already?”Adam looked up before inspecting his arm again. “It’s weird. I can feel that I’m touching metal, but I can also feel that I’m being touched. And it aches, I didn’t think it would ache so much.”“You’ve got some meds in your system though, right? Trust me, adjusting without anything is terrible.”Adam’s face grew dark like it always did whenever Shiro talked about the trauma he got from the Empire. Talking about space was fine, but if Shiro would talk about how he was hurt, Adam would close himself off. They hadn’t even talked about the fight Shiro had with Keith when Kuron was being manipulated yet.“Sorry, I shouldn’t have-”“No, it’s fine. It’s just, hard to hear.” Shiro waited, watching Adam play with the blanket as he gathered his thoughts. “I was angry at you. I remember being so mad for leaving, I might have even hated you for a while. While I was busy hating you, you were fighting for your life and-”“Hey, that’s not your fault.” Shiro sat on the bed, needing Adam to understand his words. “Leaving was my choice and my choice alone. Are there things I regret, yes, but I’m okay with how things went. I found Keith again, I was able to heal and bond with my team. I’m okay.”“I still can’t believe you found him in another Galaxy, and he’s Galra now?”“Always has been, half-blood you know.”“You know what, that explains so much. I mean, stereotypes are terrible to assume but, you know...” Adam left the sentence hanging and Shiro joined him with a laugh.They sat like that for a second, Shiro just watching Adam while he got used to moving his new fingers around and lifting his leg. He would need physical therapy after this and it would be a long journey, but Shiro was just glad that Adam was alive.“I talked to Iverson. If you want, you can be an analyst or a teacher on the Atlas when you’re ready. The position is yours.”Adam looked up, shock in his eyes. “Does, does he know I’m like this? I mean, Takashi, I’ll be bedridden for weeks trying to get my leg to function. I can’t-”“He said when you’re ready. If you want to. I think he feels bad about the rest of your squad being killed. And if you don’t want to I’ll-”“I do. I want the job. You’re not leaving Earth without me again, mister.”Shiro reached out, metal meeting metal as they held hands and something about it just felt right. “I understand. I’ll make sure to tell him you accept and we’ll work everything out once you start recovering. You up for food?”“Starving.”They spent the rest of the night together, the hospital fading away as Shiro presented some nearly burnt chicken and watery mashed potatoes. Adam laughed but smiled, the familiar cooking bringing joy to the man. Just like that they smiling again, cuddled up in bed while Shiro talked about the stars.And even though so much had changed, they both felt right at home.

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Who knew within a few months someone could make a whole television show about you? The announcement was unexpected, some producer visited the Garrison begging to tell the story of Voltron. Apparently, they were the most popular thing and they wanted something to boost people’s spirits.Hunk had worked with them, sharing his journal while they all were interviewed for the show. It was weird, to think thousands would see the journey Voltron made.Sitting on their bed, watching the show, Pidge wasn’t so sure anymore. Seriously, when did they ever face off against a giant snake monster? How did that even happen?Pidge, on the screen, let out a shout in a nasally voice. “Hold it, I’m getting all shook up!”“I don’t really sound like that, do I, Bae Bae?” Pidge looked down at the dog.He looked up, turning to face the screen before lying down. Pidge turned back to the screen, shaking their head at Bae Bae. Of course, he was right, he always was.“Pidge! We gotta go soon!” Mom shouted through the house.They groaned, rolling onto their back to wait it out a little longer. With repairs done and no enemies in sight, Pidge was totally, absolutely, one hundred percent, grounded.Like every day before this, Pidge followed their mom to the Garrison. There were reports to be done, samples to be taken and plants to be watered. Pidge didn’t hate biology or Mom’s work, but they’d really rather be anywhere else.The Atlas was launching tomorrow, and Pidge was going to spend their last day in the basement.At least they got to work with Beezer, he was pretty cool.The door opened and they glanced up, staring at Allura who stood in the doorway.{“Pidge, do you have a moment?”}“Uh, sure. What’s up?”{“Well, though this was not planned, I have, well, Romelle has asked to have dinner with me tonight. And I have no idea what to do.”}“Wait. A Date? Really? Sounds great, but what do you need from me?”{“Well, I was hoping that you might be able to accompany me to prepare for different attire. All I have left are clothes made for extravagant occasions and I wish to just be Allura tonight, not a Queen.”} Pidge looked at Allura and conceded, the whole ballgown thing wasn’t very simple.Mom began to laugh and Pidge turned with a glare, holding tightly to their datapad. Allura turned as well to face Colleen.“Pidge? Fashion? That’s a good one.”Pidge stuck out their tongue but Colleen was too busy to notice. “Anyway, I heard the mall has reopened. I’ve been wanting to check it out, but I’m grounded.”{“Grounded? You would not need to fly, we can walk there if you must.”}“No, no.” Pidge held in a laugh. “It just means I’m not allowed to leave Mom’s supervision. It’s a form of punishment.”{“Ah, I remember you speaking of this. Why are you grounded?”}“They’re grounded because apparently my child thinks that running away from home and gallivanting off into space without their mother’s permission is an acceptable activity for a fifteen-year-old.” Mom said casually.Pidge kept their cool for two seconds before restarting the argument they’d had several times before this.“Well, apparently, finding my brother and saving my father from an intergalactic tyrant doesn’t get me a pass!”“Of course it doesn’t! I am your mother and I’m supposed to keep you safe and that’s not possible when you keep putting your life in danger again and again!”“I’m saving people, isn’t that a good reason though? I was chosen by the Lions, it’s not even my fault!”“Well, now you’re on Earth and while you’re here, I’m in charge, understood?”Pidge kept their glare, matching Mom’s anger as they silently fought. Dad was pointless when they fought, saying he was going to stay out of it and Matt was happy to follow Dad around for his grounding. Pidge wanted to explore, they were a curious child and Mom was ruining their time to see how Earth was adapting to space life!Allura stepped between them, raising her hands. {“I understand Colleen, but I would really appreciate Pidge’s help. Lance is with Keith, Hunk is busy and Shiro is unavailable. We will go to this mall and then right back, she will never leave my sight.”}Mom kept up her stare for a while before her face softened. “All right. But back before dinner, got it Sweet Pea?”This argument wasn’t over yet.{“Thank you. We will be back soon.”} Allura pushed Pidge out of the room.Pidge stopped fighting when they left, actually really excited about going to the mall. Yeah, they didn’t enjoy shopping but it’s different when you’ve been gone from Earth for years.They took one of the Garrison cars and drove into Plaht where the mall had been reopened. Though, it wasn’t anything like the space mall. It was more like a market with stalls set up and people laying their items out on the floor.Somehow, they had collected Nadia Rizavi and Ina Leifsdotter as well. Pidge had gone to them for keys and Nadi insisted and joining. Pidge didn’t mind, Nadia seemed more ready to go shopping for clothes than Pidge.“Okay, ‘Operation Find a Date Outfit’ is go.” Nadia faced the small group, hands on her hips. “We’re gonna take it one store at a time till we come out of this place successful. Let the hunt begin!”With that, Nadia led them in, skipping ahead while Ina followed at a more normal pace. Pidge scanned the shops, waiting for something to catch their eye.“I love shopping. Don’t you, Ina?”“It’s a primal urge from when collecting and gathering was a means of survival.”“It just calms me. Like skydiving. Now come one, I’m gonna shop this mall so hard.”Pidge was slightly curious how those two became friends with their contrasting personalities.Then, Pidge noticed something that they just had to have or else living just wasn’t worth it anymore. They fell to their knees, hands reaching for the holy grail.“Killbot Phantasm 26: Revengifiance! This is out?”Nadia joined them, stars in her eyes as well. “Oh, my God! It came out a few days before Gnov invaded. No one was ever able to reach the end.”“That’s right. I have one of the few undamaged units left.” The shop owner said.“We’ll take it!” Pidge and Nadia shouted in unison.“Okay. Great to meet such, passionate, KBP fans. What have you got to trade?”Oh.Pidge, hadn’t thought of currency. They had GAC, but Earth wouldn’t use that and Pidge hadn’t thought to ask Mom for some spending money.Shit.“Trade?” Pidge looked at Nadia who shook her head, then they turned to the rest of the group but they had empty pockets. “I, uh, I don’t really have anything.”“Sorry. No trade, no game.”Pidge dropped their head, feeling the glorious game slipping out of their fingers, and they hadn’t even touched it yet. Not even the cover.“Well, that’s some way to treat a Paladin of Voltron.” Nadia said dramatically and Pidge looked up.“Wait, what? You mean, like, from the show?”“Show? Well, kinda. It was based on me.”The shopkeeper smiled. “My kid loves that show. The game is yours if I could just get an autograph for my daughter.”Pidge jumped up, imitating the strange voice the TV show had given their character. “Sure thing! Anything for the kids!”They sighed a piece of paper, adding their own little drawing and just like that, they had Killbot Phantasm 26: Revengifiance in their own hands.And Pidge suddenly knew how they were going to pay for things today.Bags, new phones, a laptop, a Voltron figurine, and so many more items were all paid for with Pidge’s signature and drawings. They fell more into the role, buying an outfit that looked like the TV show just for fun. It wasn’t a great outfit, but Pidge felt cool in it.Then, Nadia elbowed them, reminding them of the task at hand and they found the clothing shops.“Allura, leave this to us. Guys, divide and conquer!” Nadia ordered at one of the stores.Pidge didn’t do window shopping, they knew what they needed for new clothes and that was it. But, Allura was a sister to them, and Pidge could put aside their feelings about wasting a whole afternoon looking at fabric.They scanned the aisles with the other girls, trying to think of what would make Allura look good but feel comfortable. Stacks of clothes in hand, they sat in front of the dressing rooms and shoved them at Allura.She came out dressed like she was ready for tennis, then she was a professional chef, and the clothes Pidge had gathered looked like Allura was dressed in children's dress-up. She tried several other outfits but they couldn’t agree with any of them, they just didn’t feel right for Allura.Tired of it all, Allura found clothes this time and got dressed. When she came out again, the girls cheered and Pidge gave a thumbs-up. Dressy, pretty, and simple, Allura had found the perfect outfit.Now it was time to play Killbot Phantasm 26: Revengifiance with Hunk!Except, when they tried to pay, the Unilu at the counter wasn’t nearly as impressed with Pidge’s impression of Pidge. TV Show Pidge, that is.“How about you give us all this and I give you an autograph from a world-famous Paladin of Voltron!”“No. This will all add up to one phoeb of servitude!”“A year!” Nadia shouted.“Month.” Pidge clarified, staring down the Unilu.“Come on, dude. It’s me, Pidge! Green Paladin of Voltron.”He folded his arms and glared. “Price just went up three phoebs.”Pidge stepped back, meeting his glare but keeping their mouth shut.{“I could give you a royal decree of service from the Queen of Altea?”}“Sorry, that doesn’t pay anymore.” Allura folded in on herself after that.But Pidge wasn’t ready to back down. Allura wanted this outfit, Allura was going to get this outfit, wear it to the date and stun Romelle into silence!{“Perhaps this was a bad idea. I do not need the dress, I will do with my own clothes. Let us go.”}Pidge opened their mouth but Allura was already leaving so Pidge turned to follow, not wanting to make Allura feel any worse.“Wait! I’ll give you a friendly deal.” They paused, glancing back at the storekeeper. “You can have this, for Killbot Phantasm 26: Revengifiance.”Nadia jumped in before Pidge could speak up. “No deal! What could you possibly need it for?”“I’ve been looking to get my claws on that game for decaphoebs. I’m a huge KBP fan.”Pidge looked down at the game while Nadia argued.The shopkeeper said there were other copies and Pidge was a Paladin of Voltron. It was possible that they would come across another version. Besides, how often could they play it when they were about to launch and restart the fight for freedom in the universe?“Fine.” Pidge cut off Nadia’s angry words, passing over the game. “You can have it, we don’t have any time to play it anyway.”He took it quickly and started wrapping up Allura’s things. Pidge turned and started to leave before they could regret the choice.Which was impossible when Allura basically picked them up with a hug.{“Thank you Pidge. I will not forget this.”}Pidge loved Matt and was glad to have an older brother like him. But having an older sister like Allura wasn’t so bad either.

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With Pidge grounded, Hunk hadn’t been able to spend much time with them. He went down to Colleen’s office, area, thing but he didn’t get plants the same way and she didn’t like him hanging around. So, when he was offered a place to help out in the kitchen, he gladly accepted.After all, he was the one who knew most about the species aboard the Atlas and what they all could and wanted to eat. He joined Sal from the Space Mall, organizing lists of who could eat what and also a list of Do Not Serve If You Want To Live, for daily use.The door opened and he looked up, crossing over to hug Mama. He had spent as much time as he could with them, talking to his nephews and filling in the time he was gone. They had decided to stay on Earth, a good choice on their part, even though that would mean separating again.“We have some things for you, Tsuyoshi.” She gestured to the cart Papa was pushing.They came into the kitchen, unloading boxes of supplies. As they worked, Hunk filled the space talking about Sal and explaining the space mall to his parents.Goodness, he could spend hours talking about their time in space. When that guy came to make the TV show, Hunk had been told to stop talking in such fine details because he was taking too long.“All right, that’s all of it.” Hunk set down the last box.Mama came forward, two smaller boxes in her hands. “Here’s all our family recipes. And this is something special just for you.”She pointed at the top box and he opened it, breathing in the wonderful smells that came from the dish.“Banana cake. Mama, you’re the best!”“Well, your Papa and I are just so proud of you, you’ve done some amazing things, Tsuyoshi. Remember, come to our house tonight, I need to have one more meal before you launch. We love you.”“Of course Mama, I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Love you too.” Hunk gave them each one more hug before they left.Hunk really wasn’t surprised that Keith and Lance were still working things out. Just because they liked each other didn’t mean there couldn’t be tension. Every couple had fights, and that was healthy. Still, he didn’t like seeing Lance like this.He glowed with Zira, running around the base and exploring Plaht. It was like it was his mission to always make her laugh and he was good at it too. Zira wasn’t a big fan of Hunk, Lance said it was only because Hunk was so much taller than her, but he didn’t mind. She was healing, she had trauma like the rest of them and he understood.But whenever he wasn’t with Zira, Lance settled. He would wander the base, hands in his pockets and if not for his white hair, Lance would have blended right in with the other cadets. It was strange, Lance was always the type to stand out.This wasn’t the castle though and Hunk had no idea how to make him feel more at home. He was ready for the launch, if anything for Lance to be himself again.Hunk waved off Lance after a great talk, finished organizing the supplies and soon he and Sal left the kitchen to spend time with their own friends and families.Shiro was with Adam, Allura was most likely with the new Altean and Keith and Lance were gonna be busy, so Hunk made the offer for the Holts to join his family for dinner. Pidge was his best friend and family wasn’t restricted to last names.Besides, maybe that would mean Hunk could actually eat dinner for once. Maleko and Hemi had interrogated him every night so far, talking about the new TV show or something else they had found out. He loved telling stories, but he loved his Mama’s cooking too.Even with all the time between them, Hunk slipped into cooking with Tausafina and Mama like he had never left. They danced around each other, Tausafina talked about how big her boys had gotten, Mama talked about how they were restarting the garage business and Hunk shared moments with Shay.“You’ll have to bring her home one of these days, Tsuyoshi. She sounds too perfect to be real.”“She is perfect, Mama. And strong, goodness, she’s a fighter and won’t be talked down in a debate. There was one time she was trading with someone, and they kept asking for an unequal trade and Shay wouldn’t stand for it. She’s, amazing.”“Sounds like Yoshi’s in love.” Fina sang, bumping him with her hip.Hunk felt his face grow hot, focusing and cutting the vegetables. “I like her, but I don’t know yet. I mean, I’ve only been on a few dates and I, I haven’t seen her in, a while.”He didn’t like thinking about how long it had been.“But I would love to bring her home, Mama. You’d love her.”Mama came over, hand in his hair as she kissed his forehead. “If you love her, then I do as well, Tsuyoshi.”He didn’t argue about the L word with her, it was pointless to resist.Hemi and Maleko ran in at that moment, the door closing behind Iakopo and soon noises came from their rooms as they played. Iakopo shared a kiss with Fina before sitting down at the counter. They continued to cook and as Mama pulled the meal out of the oven, there was a knock at the door.“Hunk, I’m coming in!” The door opened before they could answer.“Pidge Holt! You should at least wait, sorry for them.” Colleen apologized as Pidge made themselves comfortable on the couch.“Oh, no, don’t worry about it. From what I hear, they are practically siblings and you are always welcome to our home.”The door closed behind Sam, Matt and his girlfriend probably having a date night of their own. Iakopo pulled out the chairs at the table which Sam and Colleen took with a smile. Fina ran after the boys while Iakopo got the Holts settled for dinner.“Please, tell us more about yourselves. I’d love to learn more about Pidge and their amazing family. Tsuyoshi couldn’t stop talking about the Holt family.” Mama said once they had all sat down.Pidge looked up, mouth full of food. “I’m the amazing one, Mrs. Garrett, the best compilation of their genes.”“Pidge.” Colleen elbowed her child.“Please, call me Noelani, or Noe. As you can tell, nicknames are quite popular in our house.”“I was wondering about that. I mean, I’ve read Hunk’s name on his paperwork but everyone I know calls him, Hunk.” Sam said.“Yes, cultural names can be difficult to pronounce, and I left it up to my children to decide what they wanted to be called. Though, when Tsuyoshi came home one day saying his nickname was Hunk, it wasn’t what I expected.”They shared a laugh and the conversation flowed throughout dinner. Sam and Colleen asked about nicknames, the food and how they were recovering. Maleko and Hemi were messing around as usual until Iakopo or Mama gave them a look. Hunk focused on Pidge who was apparently dragged out of their home and forced to go shopping.“It was in my hands, Hunk, in my hands! And then, it was gone.”“You know, you could have gone back with currency or something else later. You didn’t have to give Killbot away.”Pidge played with their fork, the food gone from all of their plates a while ago. “Yeah, but Allura wanted it. Like, I don’t sacrifice my stuff, I grew up with an older sibling, but she looked so happy. You know how she’s been since we found Luca. I can always find another one later.”“That was very nice of you, Pidge.” Hunk patted their hand softly and they rolled their eyes.“Yeah, don’t tell anyone about it, I’ve got my street cred.”Hunk stared at them before chuckling. No one was quite like Pidge, and Hunk liked it that way. Really, he couldn’t handle a world where two Pidges existed at the same time.The night was full of laughter as they turned to stories about Voltron, talking about the best parts of it. Pidge was happy to show off for Maleko and Hemi, talking with big gestures and over-dramatic words. Hunk shared his stories as well, a smile on his face.He wasn’t scared about leaving tomorrow anymore his shoulders suddenly light. Yes, he didn’t want to leave his family, but they would be alright. There were families in space right now that were pulled apart and people that needed help.Hunk would do his part knowing he could always come home to his family, waiting with a hug and a meal.

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Lance had nothing to do.Allura was working with Luca, the mystery Altean who piloted the Komar. Pidge was grounded and stuck in the basement of the Garrison. Hunk was working with the kitchen, harvesting and gathering as many supplies as he could before the launch. Shiro was being the Black Paladin while reuniting with his lover who was believed to be dead. And Keith, Keith was working with the Blades, leaving in the morning with a kiss and coming back tired.The Blades were trying to rebuild, Acxa had managed to gather a large force but there were areas still unresponsive. Not only that, but every drone or agent they’ve sent to check on the Colony has returned saying there was no sight of any Alteans. Keith would talk of the pressure he felt, needing to give something back to him and Allura.Lance didn’t care, he missed his partner.He spent plenty of time with Zira and she was the joy in his life right now. Hunk would take them out sometimes to walk through Plaht or Lance would organize trips with Romelle and Ah’Liah. Sam had given her a newly updated translator that wasn’t as uncomfortable and she loved being able to talk to everyone.Lance worked on his Galra with her, whispering bedtime stories and songs, feeling his anxiety lessen with each word. But as much as he loved Zira, he missed Keith.Which left him in the kitchen, watching Hunk work after his parents left. He didn't want to be a bother, but Zira was napping and he didn’t want to be alone.“What’s got you down, brother?” Hunk sat at the table and Lance quickly put a smile on his face.{“Nothing. Are you excited, the Atlas launches tomorrow.”}“I know, it’s so weird. It seems like it was forever ago when we piled into Green and blasted out into space. Man, we had no idea what we were getting into, but I’m glad I came out of it with a friend like you. Now, what’s going on?”{“I said nothing. It is just strange, being around so many people. For so long it has just been us, just the Paladins, Keith and Lance.”}Hunk grinned and Lance stared down at the strange liquid in his cup, Pidge said they couldn’t live without it but Lance wasn’t sure if he could live with it.“I see, you’re missing Keith.”{“What? Why would you have that idea? I, I do not know what you mean, Hunk.”}“He’s been with the Blade this whole time, talking to Krolia, Kolivan and even Thace, which cool prosthetics! I mean, I saw them the other day and they put Shiro’s to shame but, I mean, he’s been spending a lot of time with everyone else.”Lance put his chin in his hand, letting out a sigh. {“I do not know if I should feel like this. He comes home every night, we spend some dinners together and he is wonderful. I wish, I wish we could do something. Something just for the two of us.”}There was a break in the conversation and he looked up, seeing Hunk deep in thought. Lance tried sipping the drink, before setting it down again. How could Pidge drink something so bitter?“You could take him out on a date?”{“Date? I do not know, Keith has planned everything so far. I would not even know how to do an activity in Earth fashion. And doing such things the Altean way is impossible, how would I find a bogwaggle cape out here?”}Hunk stood, pausing at the table with a hand on Lance’s shoulder. “Keith likes you, he really does. Just, plan for something you both would enjoy together. You’re a great man, Lance, and I bet Keith would go along with anything you said just because you are the one suggesting it. Be confident and go for it.”Lance left after that, going back to their room. Zira was still asleep, Kosmo at the end of her bed like the wonderful guard dog he was.Be confident, Hunk said.Lance wasn’t sure how to be confident anymore. When he was a teenager it was easy to act better than he felt. He was a Prince, he was loved by his people and he loved the attention. The war started and that confidence changed, needing to suddenly be as amazing as the people believed him to be. He started to feel like he wasn’t good enough, that he couldn’t hold up to the rest of his siblings.Then, everything changed and now he’s standing on a foreign planet without a purpose. He was a fighter, a pilot, a Prince. But the Garrison didn’t need that, humans didn’t need that from him. He was just another face now, especially when they only needed Queen Allura.He tried not to be upset about that, Allura had come to him several times when the weight of her crown was too much. This wasn’t what she asked for either.Still, that didn’t change Lance’s need to be seen, to be heard.Keith used to see him.Lance stood at that, dashing from the room and running into his. He stared into the mirror, glaring down at the weak prince.Keith wasn’t a mind reader, Lance had to speak up about the things he wanted.Keith wasn’t perfect, he made mistakes and that was okay.Keith probably had no idea Lance was feeling this way, and it was his job to change it.Keith loved him and Lance wasn’t going to let his anxieties keep him from having a wonderful night with his Socii.Pulling out his data pad, he linked with Keith to send a message.To: Ma Keef, Ma Amor <3We are going to have dinner together.You will be done with work andcome home before it is time to eat.If you do not do these things,I will cut off your hair when you sleep.Lance smiled, as if he could ever follow through with the threat. Keith’s hair was just too soft and pretty to be cut.But it did its job, a reply was sent ticks later.From: Ma Keef, Ma Amor <3Okay, I’ll be there, no need for threats,little Prince. Is this a date? Should I dress up?Lance hadn’t thought of that, but yes, it was a date. He sent the confirmation before putting down his pad. He was going on an Earth date, he was going to look amazing.Thankfully, he and Romelle had gone shopping earlier with Ah’Liah. Ro wouldn’t say why it was important, but they had all gotten Earth clothes. They were nice, Lance was used to Altean clothing but Earth clothes weren’t so bad.He had wanted to wear the jacket Keith had gotten him, but it was a little on the casual side. Instead, he got a blue jacket that was made of tough material, wore a tight white shirt that looked wonderful on him and dark blue pants that made his ass look marvelous. Lance had found jewelry as well, blue to play off his Altean marks.Staring at the mirror again, Lance took a deep breath before letting it go. Earth wasn’t his style, but he was sure Keith would like it.[“Lany?”] A tired voice came from the hall.Zira entered the room, Kosmo right behind her as she rubbed her eyes. Lance bent down to get her, holding her before the mirror as well.[“Did, did you sleep well?”]She hummed, playing with his hair.[“You are going to play with Li-Li today, Keef and I are going to have dinner tonight.”][“I come too?”] She looked up, golden eyes so sweet and innocent and for a moment, Lance was almost willing to say yes.[“No, dear. Like you need naps, Keef and I need alone time. But Liah is excited to spend the night with you and Kos.”]She gripped his hair, holding his shirt as well. [“Lany an Keef be right back?”]He pulled her close, pouring out all the love he had for her into the embrace. [“Of, of course we will. We said we would be back after the fight, and we came back. We will always come back to you Zira. Always.”][“M’tay.”] She mumbled.Lance held onto her until Ah’Liah picked her up, wishing she could understand how much he wanted to never leave her side. Which wouldn’t help her separation anxiety at all.The knock came moments later and Lance stood only for Keith to shout.“Go to the bathroom or something. I need to get dressed and I want to be able to see you all ready when I don’t feel gross.”Ah, yes, his partner and his sweet words.{“Fine! I am leaving but be quick!”} Lance called, going toward Zira’s room.He only sat there for a few moments before there was another knock. Lance fixed his shirt and hair before standing to open it.Keith was the most handsome man in the universe.His hair was freshly braided, hair tucked away neatly and showing more of his handsome face. He wore a dark shirt with a black jacket and black pants. He wore silver rings on his fingers as well as some necklaces.He was stunning and Lance was falling in love all over again.“I, uh, messaged Adam. He said this would look good. What do you think?”Lance answered by pulling him in for a kiss. They could be late for dinner.“I’m going. To take that. As a. Yes.” Keith said between kisses.{“I did not think I liked Earth Clothes. But it seems I like them on you.”}Keith pulled away, hands still on Lance’s hips. “As much as I really would love to spend the night in, it seemed like you had something planned for us. I mean, you threatened to cut my hair, little Prince.”{“Ma Keith, you think I would cut such a beautiful thing?”}Keith rolled his eyes and began to leave, Lance followed with a skip in his step.Finally, for one night, it would just be Keith and Lance, Lance and Keith, inseparable partners.

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The Blade of Marmora had lost over half of its members and a fourth were still missing. Kolivan and Acxa had done their best to gather everyone, but they were so widespread and well-hidden that many were lost.Not only that, but the Colony was gone.Kolivan had sent agents but they came back saying both facilities were empty, no one else was there. Allura was sure that Haggar was behind this which meant Keith was trying to find any place in the universe where Haggar could hide a whole planet.It wasn’t going well.He’d spent hours before the computer, talking to Krolia and Kolivan about strange areas in the universe. Nebulas you couldn’t see through, planet graveyards or anything else that could hide people.Most of the time, they would shake their heads, saying they had people there already or that it was too impossible to survive.Keith didn’t know what to do.Allura and Lance deserved their families as well. They deserved to have people to come home to, people to love. Their sister was on the Colony, they had their niece but what about the rest of their family?Keith had been there, he’d been with the Alteans and somehow, he’d lost them.“Keith, let’s take a break.” Krolia came over, gently touching his back while Keith fought through another headache.“I hate not being able to do anything.”“Would you like to visit him again?”The Blade hadn’t come alone. No, Prince Lotor had woken up in the year Voltron had taken to travel to Earth.But Keith wasn’t so sure he was really Prince Lotor anymore. The first time seeing him was, shocking. Krolia had brought him to Lotor, Shiro and Allura were busy and Keith had wanted to see the Galra.Upon opening the door, Keith was greeted by a pleasant smile from the person lying on the bed. His hair was pulled back in a loose braid and his clothes were white. He had scars on his skin, pale and long and his eyes were more gold than they had been before. He sat up, hands on his lap and he seemed, soft. If not for the fact that Keith knew this was Lotor, he never would have assumed this man was so, terrible.[“Hello. Have a seat, Keith.”]He entered slowly, eyeing the Galra. [“So, you remember me.”][“Ah, yes. I remember everything.”][“What you did to the Galra? How you attacked us? How you nearly tore the universe apart?” Everything?”][“Yes.”] The Galra bent his head, playing with his hands as if he was a scared child.[“What you did to the Alteans?”]Lotor’s chest heaved as he sucked in another breath and his head stayed bowed. Eventually he answered, voice broken.[“Yes.”][“Why?”][“I cannot remember why. I remember pieces, terrible, terrible moments and actions I must have done. I remember ordering to drain the Alteans, though I cannot imagine why. It’s all too terrible to think about.”]Keith growled, bayard forming in his hand as he used the sword to tilt Lotor’s face up. To his surprise, the Galra was crying, large tears staining the blanket covering his legs.[“I wish I didn’t remember. I wish I was still that clean slate, living and breathing because I wasn’t dead. Then the memories came back, of Zarkon, Haggar, the colony, Allura-”][“Queen Alluradell.”]Lotor nodded as much as he could with a blade to his throat. [“Yes, Queen Alluradell. I know I did these things, but it doesn’t feel like I was doing them. It is as if it was a different version of me, a person from a terrible past who had no other choice. It is like a nightmare; I see my hands thrusting a blade and being unable to stop myself. And, the worst part is knowing why but being unable to understand.”][“I thought you said you couldn’t remember?”] Keith lowered the blade and Lotor held his head with one hand.[“I do, and I don’t. The doctors say the amount of Quintessence I was exposed to has, affected my mind. I am here and then I am in a dream, here and there and nowhere. I did everything for science, to understand why I could not age and why I was so different. The Alteans were perfect, they had the same overwhelming amounts of Quintessence stored in their bodies because of the abyss.”]For a moment, Lotor smiled a cruel grin before it faded away and he began to cry again.[“I have felt alone for hundreds of decaphoebs, I have never belonged, and I never knew my own family. I wished to belong with someone, to have someone who understood me. It came at the price of so many people, so many lives I cannot bring back. Why would I do that? How could I not use them to understand myself? My head is too full and yet there are some days, I don’t think of anything at all.”]Lotor faced him, all emotions gone from his face. [“You must forgive me, I am not feeling like myself today, could I get your name again?”]Keith sighed, sitting back in his chair. He didn’t know what he wanted from Lotor. Maybe to get mad at him or to see Lotor feel bad for his actions. Or, he wanted to see the Galra beg for forgiveness or ask to help pay for his action. And yet, this made more sense.Allura said that he had unusual amounts of Quintessence, that his body wasn’t like anyone else. She said he might have been sick, and that he wasn’t thinking clearly because of his condition. Lotor wasn’t healthy, he wasn’t much of a Prince anymore either.Lotor turned to the window with a pleasant smile.[“It is quite beautiful today. Sometimes the nurses take me out to help with the gardening. They hope once I am more stable that I can help with Plaht City. It’s wonderful, how you have all pulled together after such an attack. I wish to do my part as well, eventually.”][“What if you could never leave? What if you were locked up for some reason?”]He turned to face Keith, face pleasant. [“Well, all I ask is to have access to a library. I have this strange urge to learn, I don’t think I would last long anywhere without a good book to read.”][“We’ll see.”] Keith had left after that, needing to get away from Lotor.Keith wasn’t sure if he wanted to go back. Lotor knew what he had done wasn’t right, but he couldn’t feel bad. What was the point of talking to a criminal who didn’t know they were breaking the law?“No, Ma, I think I’ll just-” His pad beeped and he pulled it out.From: Prince
We are going to have dinner together.
You will be done with work and come home
before it is time to eat. If you do not do these
things, I will cut off your hair when you sleep.Keith stared at the phone, unsure of what he was reading.“I like this Altean. He is quite strong.”“Ma!” Keith shouted, covering the device from her prying eyes.She left after that, hands up to show she was done. With her gone, Keith was able to respond to Lance’s message.To: Prince
Okay, I’ll be there, no need for threats,
little Prince. Is this a date? Should I dress up?From: Prince
Yes. I do believe we deserve a night
out on town. Hunk said that,
I hope I am using it right. See you soon. <3Keith found himself smiling and he quickly updated Kolivan on his research before heading home. Lance was waiting for him.On the way he sent a message to Shiro asking what he should wear. Adam responded with some ideas because Shiro didn’t know how to dress up. Adams’s words, not Keith’s.The time it took for Keith to feel comfortable in the clothes was worth it to see Lance, smiling and glowing. Lance's clothes were simple as well, thankfully, but the denim jacket, shirt and jeans looked great on him. Even the scar over his eyebrow seemed to fit in with his outfit.How did Keith get so lucky? Holding Lance close, he realized how long it had been since they’d had a night together.Lance took them out to where Blue was waiting. A short ride later and they were at the ocean’s edge, water spilling over the sand as the sun hovered in the sky. It would be sunset soon but Keith found himself staring at Lance instead.{“I am still amazed. This, ocean, as you call it, how can one planet have so much water?”}Keith pulled him close on the picnic blanket. “I still can’t believe you guys don’t get rain. But this is only the surface. The ocean goes on for miles, we’re still building technology to reach the bottom.”Lance’s eyes were wide and he turned to face the water. {“Blue and I could reach it, I believe. What do you think?”}Blue tipped her head from where she was lying. Lance softly laughed before going back to the meal.The Lions were different after the last battle. Red was always with him now and when he needed a break, they would often go on walks together. He wasn’t her pilot, they were partners and she seemed to love their long walks through the desert.After eating, Lance dragged Keith to his feet, ordering him to take off his shoes. Barefoot, they ran into the water and to no one's surprise, they ended up in a water fight. Lance would shriek because of the cold water and turn, kicking at Keith. He would return fire, flicking with his tail while Lance ran around like a child. This continued for a while until a large shadow fell over them.Blue jumped into the water and Keith stood there stunned, water dripping and his clothes soaked all the way through. Lance thought it was hilarious, running up to Blue with his white shirt doing nothing to cover his body. Blue splashed them a little more, flipping her paws to send waves at them. Eventually Keith had enough, and they climbed on top of Blue to watch the sunset.Sky painted yellow, orange and purple, they laid together with their jackets bringing a little warmth back to them.“I have missed you.”Keith slipped his hand to Lance’s waist, holding him close. “I know. I’m sorry I just. I was right there, I saw the Colony and I wish I hadn’t let them slip away. I was there, and I didn’t do anything.”No one talked for a moment and Keith watched Lance wring his fingers. Something was bothering the Altean, something other than the colony. Keith pushed the Alteans from his mind, they could work on them later. Right now, his partner needed him.He reached out, gently holding Lance’s face, turning him away from the sunset. His eyes glowed from the setting sun, but they were hollow. He’d been so busy, he hadn’t thought about how Lance was dealing with this change. This time he was the alien in a world that he didn’t know. And Keith had been with his own people, leaving Lance to struggle.“I do not know who I am anymore.”Keith waited, letting Lance collect his thoughts.{“I am a Prince of a people that are gone, a leader of a dead planet and an extra Paladin. I am trying to be positive, to remember what I add to the team but it is difficult sometimes. Allura can do anything, you are the best pilot in the universe, Shiro is the strongest man I know, Hunk is too sweet for this world and Pidge, Pidge is practically a genius. I do not know how I measure.{“I feel, lost. So much is going on and yet, I have sat in our room, doing nothing. We have an Altean who fought in a Komar Mech to kill us, the Atlas is preparing for launch and there is nothing for me to do. It makes it hard to feel positive. I need you, you ground me, Keith. I have missed you.”}“I’ve missed you too. The brave Blue Paladin of Voltron.” Keith pressed a kiss to Lance’s knuckles. “The sharpshooter who’s always got my back.” Keith kissed Lance’s forehead and Lance’s eyes closed. “The Prince that deserves the world.” Keith kissed Lance’s nose. “I will always need you, my sassy, confident, beautiful, smart, dramatic, amazing, Prince. I love you, my Lance.”This time, Lance leaned in, giving a short and sweet kiss before resting his head on Keith’s shoulder. Keith stared at him, glad to see Lance’s eyes glow with the fading light of the sun.“And I love you, the fearless leader and the crazy man who does not think before jumping into a fight. I love Lura, and the Paladins, Zira and Kosmo, but you are the man I will love till the end of time.”“You don’t need Blue?” Keith smirked and Lance lifted his head with a laugh.“Oh, yes, I need her very much. Forgive me, love, you are second behind her, Blue is truly the love of my life. When we fly, there is no greater feeling.”Keith leaned close, sharing the same air as Lance. “Should I be jealous of a mechanical lion, my Prince?”“Never.”They kissed as the sun vanished from sight, but Keith’s world stayed full of light. Keith held the world in his hands as he clung to Lance, forgetting about the war and the Blades.They would get through this, as partners

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Allura stood on the other side of the glass, watching the Altean. She hadn’t moved since she was brought here but she was alive.Allura just knew this was because of the Witch. She had no proof but she didn’t need any. Haggar was Altean, she had the ability to shapeshift and had the advantage of manipulating words. Her people were in danger and here she was, safe on a base worlds away.Romelle and Ah’Liah came up, standing by her side.{“I knew her.”} Romelle broke the silence. {“Luca. She and I did not always get along, but I always respected Luca. She had an inner strength that many did not and a desire to be a part of something greater than herself.”}{“If she was so desperate for something to believe in, it may have made her susceptible to being manipulated.”}Liah reached out, gently touching Allura’s arm. {“You must un-understand, the colony worships Lotor beyond, beyond reason. If-if not for my mother, I would be in the, the same situation. It would only take one person t-to point the blame to get the-the whole colony behind them. We, we have been secluded for decahphoebs; they do not, do not know any better.”}{“I wish I could help. I have talked with the Admiral but he is strict in the course of the Atlas. They need me, how can I stand here?”}{“Because we need you too. Allura, you are the heart of this operation. You are greater than you give yourself credit. Without you, I fear the Atlas would not even work. The colony will survive, we Alteans have always survived our trials.”}Allura bowed her head, hiding the blush on her face from Romelle’s words. She was so sincere, it was strange knowing someone so bright like Romelle saw her in that way.{“Come, we must get to the meeting. And yes, you shall come as well, Ro. There will be so many people, they will not notice that you are not an official Garrison worker.”}They began to make their way to the briefing room, Romelle leaning on Ah’Liah.{“Oh, I cannot believe you will be working on the Atlas! I will be volunteering in the medical bay, for Luca of course, but you will be one of the officers, Liah!”}{“On-only because Iverson is-is Admiral now and, and they need, someone to man the, the weapons system.”}{“Yes, but you understand it and do a great job. Imagine what Aria would say after hearing this! Her daughter, a space explorer!”}Aria.She was still with the colony. If Haggar was there, would Aria and her family be safe? Liah confirmed that her family were the only ones with white hair, they stood out as royals. Oh, Allura wished to be there, to see her sister again and be able to support her.But they couldn’t do anything until they found where the colony was hidden.With the final mission debrief finished, Allura stood to leave with Coran. He had been working with Sam on building and repairing, he hadn’t yet seen Luca.{“Allura!”}She turned at the shout, standing in the hall while others moved around her. On the other end was Romelle, holding her hands tightly while Ah’Liah stood behind her.{“Yes?”}{“Well, I was thinking, or rather, I was wondering, how are you doing?”}Allura paused, unsure of what Romelle was asking. Romelle knew how she was doing, Allura spent most of her time with her and Liah.Ah’Liah pushed Romelle, forcing her to take a step forward. {“What I mean is, I was wondering if you would like to, have dinner with me tonight? I found this little restaurant and then maybe we could, if you would like to of course. You do not have to-”}{“Sounds fun, Ro. But...”} She hesitated, thinking of the Altean that could wake up at any moment.{“I can watch over Luca tonight, go have fun, dear. A Queen can take a break for one evening.”}She smiled at Coran before turning to face Romelle. {“I will see you tonight then, Romelle.”}{“Really? Oh, wonderful! Tonight then, I will see you tonight. Tonight.”} Ah’Liah came forward again, pulling Romelle away who still had that bright smile on her face.Though Allura wasn’t too sure about leaving Luca, that smile made Allura forget her anxieties. Romelle was a wonderful woman, being beautiful was only one of her great attributes.Oh, Groggery. Allura hadn’t been courted in, five, seven decaphoebs?What was she supposed to do now?Thankfully, she found Pidge rather quickly, and after discussing things with Colleen they went shopping with Rizavi and Leifsdottir. It took a while and there were many obstacles but soon Allura had the perfect outfit and it was time to get ready.She was terrified for this date.Her last relationship was dear to her and she would never forget Tyrella, but they paired because Allura was Princess of Altea. She didn’t want such pressure on Romelle.Romelle was light and hope. Even when they got tired on the journey to Earth, she was always ready for a song or dance, a game to brighten their moods. When they found Luca in the Komar mech, Romelle was there as Allura cried, saying she should have been there to help the Colony. Allura didn’t know what she felt for Romelle yet, but Allura knew she wanted Romelle in her life.Ah’Liah came back moments later with Zira but they went right to the couch, Zira holding onto Liah tightly. Keith and Lance were having a night out as well and the poor dear didn’t take it too well. Allura pressed a kiss to Zira’s forehead before going back to her room.Allura stared in the mirror, fixing the dress and playing with her hair once more. She wanted to go simple but now she was worried the light purple dress was too simple. In this light, it nearly looked white and she didn’t want Romelle to think Allura wasn’t excited for this night.A knock came at the door and Allura had run out of time to worry. She left the room, answering the door with a smile.Thankfully, Romelle had the same idea. She wore a dress that left her shoulders exposed and went past her knees. It was light blue, just a shade lighter than her typical clothes. Her hair was down with small braids pulling the hair out of her face.Allura didn’t know what she wanted from this, but maybe that was okay. What would life be if one didn’t jump first and think later?{“Hi.”} Romelle’s grin split her face and Allura couldn’t help but smile as well.{“You look lovely, Romelle.”}{“Ah, you are. I mean, you do as well, Allura. You look beautiful.”}They stood there for a while before Ah’Liah coughed slightly behind them and that seemed to get Romelle out of her head. She held out her hand, gently pulling Allura down the hall.{“I tried to reach that restaurant but it seems the cadets had the same idea and the whole building is full of Garrison officers. I hope it is alright if we have dinner in Hunk’s room, he helped me prepare something this afternoon.”}{“It is fine, I am always willing to try Hunk’s meals. I am amazed how well he can cook with items he does not understand.”}They reached the room and Allura paused once more. The room was dark except for the light over the table where a dish of pasta sat with two sets of plates. Romelle pulled out Allura’s chair before they both sat down.Then it got quiet. They both ate, sharing small compliments over the food and drink but nothing else was said. Romelle was fidgeting in her seat, looking around the room while Allura felt her heart drop.She hadn’t wanted pressure on their relationship, but it seemed there already was some. Had Ro talked to Lance about how to court a Princess before this? Did Romelle feel like she had to try to impress Allura?Maybe it was best if she left after this.{“Are you alright?”}Allura looked up, realizing she hadn’t eaten in a while, playing with her food instead.{“Yes, forgive me my mind was wandering.”}{“Is it Luca?”}No.The pause made Romelle burst into action, waving her hands wildly as she talked quickly.{“I did not mean to bring her up, I am sorry for talking about the colony. I wanted you to enjoy this night without worrying about your family or the other Alteans, I am sorry for-”}{“Ro, it is fine.”} Allura held Romelle’s hands, forcing her to settle a little. {“Yes, I worry about them, but I know my sister. Aria is strong, and from what I have seen from Liah, her children are strong as well. In fact, I would love to hear about the Colony. It is a part of your life and I wish to know more about you.”}She let out a sigh, relaxing in her seat for once. {“I have been trying to think of what else we could talk about, but I was so nervous I could not think of anything. What would you like to know about the Colony?”}{“What was it like? Were you happy? Was it truly like Altea?”}The conversation flowed after that as Romelle animatedly talked about the Colony, from her parents and brother to her friends and Aria’s family. Allura found herself smiling and wanting to hear more instead of feeling depressed.She couldn’t change the past, it was a lesson she’d been learning through this whole war. It was time to move and enjoy the time Allura had with her friends. Allura wouldn’t let her own doubts ruin this wonderful night with Romelle.Dinner was finished but this time Allura was talking all about the Atlea she remembered. They laughed over stories about Feru and Lance and Allura found herself talking proudly about her other siblings. They deserved to be remembered and the best way was to tell about their lives.Eventually, Romelle stood, saying she had another thing planned. Allura left with her and they walked around the Garrison grounds.{“I must admit, I do not have something more planned.”} Romelle said, playing with her hair. {“I did not want this to end yet and this was all I could think of.”}Allura came closer, hands brushing as they walked. {“I do not mind. I do not think I can sleep yet anyway.”}This time the silence wasn’t awkward. The stars shone above them and all seemed at peace. Soon they found an area made for families. Large play areas filled the area and several benches dotted the path. But the grass was yellow and the trees were dead with scorch marks damaging their bark.This beautiful area was destroyed by the battle with Gnov and it saddened Allura. Time would heal it, but how much longer would children have to come here, looking at the area with memories of the battle instead of the times they used to play here.Romelle stopped but Allura found herself drawn to the large tree in the center. It was old, it had survived much only to be attacked by Galra battleships.Allura was tired of seeing death everywhere she looked.She reached out for the tree, thanking it for its long life of giving shade to those who visited the park. Romelle gasped and Allura opened her eyes, staring at the white glow under her hand. She didn’t stop, instead, she pushed further, this time wishing to give something back.When she opened her eyes again, the park had changed. The grass was green again with flowers dotting the area. The trees were full of life, branches regrown, and leaves brought back to life. Romelle shrieked, coming forward from behind.{“That was amazing! Did you know you could do this? Oh, it was beautiful a wave of white over the whole area and then, it was like this.”}Allura turned, catching Romelle’s hands in hers. {“I did not know, but I have learned to expect strange things to happen.”}Romelle continued to smile, the stars reflected in her eyes and Allura made the choice right then to see where this path took her. They were in a war, and danger followed them wherever they went, but Allura wouldn’t let the fight hold her back from finding happiness.They stood close together, face to face as time seemed to slow down. Just as they were leaning in, Allura’s pad beeped and they jumped apart.{“Forgive me, I must see who it is, Ro.”}{“No-no worries. Understandable.”}Allura gasped and soon she was running, pulling Romelle with her.The Altean had woken up.

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She woke up in a gray room and strange machines around her. Her vision was blurry and she couldn’t hear properly, but she seemed alright.Then she realized what had happened.Voltron had beat her and now she was their prisoner to be tortured and killed like Prince Lotor. She sat up, and people came to her side but she couldn’t understand their words. She didn’t care about them, it didn’t matter what they did.Voltron would kill her soon, Luca had failed in her mission to avenge their Great Prince Lotor.The people kept coming up to her, holding out a small item that she knocked out of their hands. She wouldn't allow them to do anything else to her, she shouldn’t have survived in the first place. She had failed, there was no point in her living anymore.They left and she curled up on the bed, wishing Voltron would finish her already.Moments later new people joined her and she tried to not stare at the Altean looking back at her.A traitor, not an Altean.Alteans served the Great Mother of Lotor, they fought to avenge the Prince’s death. Alteans didn’t work with Voltron, she didn’t know how the traitor could stand there with the other two men as if Voltron hadn’t ruined their lives.This time when they spoke, Luca understood their words, though she didn’t understand how the other men knew Altean.{“She’s stabilized, but she won’t speak to any of the doctors. I was hoping a familiar face might put her at ease.”}Any Altean here was a traitor, she couldn’t trust any of them.{“I will see if I can find them, but they had plans, Sam.”}The Traitor left and the two men stayed for a while, just watching her. Luca didn’t care, the Great Mother would finish the mission that Luca failed.Luca didn’t know how much time passed between the visits. The machines kept beeping, doctors kept checking on her but Luca stayed still. She was a soldier in the enemy’s camp, but she would go down fighting in Lotor’s name until they killed her.This time when the door opened, she recognized two of the faces.Ah’Liah and Romelle, the traitorous Alteans who abandoned the Colony and caused the death of Prince Lotor.{“I am so glad to see you are all right-”}{“Leave me.”} Luca hissed.{“We are here to help. What happened? Where is the-”}{“I will not tell you anything, traitor.”}Romelle stumbled back at that and Luca was glad she seemed to feel something still for her people.{“What? What do you mean-”}{“You abandoned us, and for Voltron, the very ones who killed our Great Prince Lotor.”}{“It-it is not-not like that, Luca.”} Ah’Liah tried to reason, but Luca wouldn’t hear their lies.{“You sided with the Great Destroyers! She told us of their lies, of what they had done to our Prince. She’s going to fix it all, she’ll reunite us with Lotor, with our home Altea. You will fall and Hanerva will-”Luca froze, seeing the Great Mother in her eyes.
‘You’ve done enough, it is time for you to rejoin Lotor.’
And then all she saw was black.~~~Hanerva cut the connection to the soldier before she could spill more secrets. She had worked too hard for this to be spoiled so quickly. She looked to the side, looking down on Kova who had followed her since Hanerva found her.Kova was everything now, without her son Kova was the only person who knew of Hanerva’s life. With nothing else to do, Hanerva sat, remembering how it started so long ago.~~~The first thing she could remember was waking up in that room, everything else forgotten. There had been another bed but she slipped to the ground, pressure filling her chest. She felt powerful, strong and yet, she couldn’t say what her name was.Feet entered her vision and she looked up, seeing a tall man standing over her. He bent down and something about him was familiar, she didn’t know him though.[“Who, who are you?”][“You do not recognize your Emperor?”]Emperor, she served the Emperor, she knew this. She served this great man, she served the Emperor.[“Who, who am I?”]He left after that, exiting the door and she felt the urge to move. She was too exposed here, this was too dangerous. She couldn’t trust anyone but the Emperor, she didn’t know anything but the Emperor.The door opened again but it was not the Emperor. This one had purple skin and golden eyes, they were recognizable as a Galra, but she didn’t know why she knew what a Galra was.[“Excuse me, my Empress.”] The Galra reached forward and she reacted on instinct.Power gathered in her hand and she drew the Galra’s energy into herself. The Galra fell to the ground and she stood, finally feeling more of herself.Someone was shouting, and more people filled the room but she only heard one word.Haggar.The birth of a child was supposed to be a joyous time.Haggar felt nothing.She was tired, and exhausted but she knew the Emperor was happy for some reason. Still, she felt nothing for the child, only feeling joy at the fact that she would be able to serve Lord Zarkon once again.She heard the doctors talking around her, but the words were meaningless to her.“Lord, the birth was difficult but successful. The child is healthy and in good shape, though we seem to be getting some strange readings coming from him directly. Similar to those that, well, similar to the readings we got from you.”A baby cry was heard but Haggar looked at Lord Zarkon, waiting for her orders.As Emperor Zarkon’s advisor, she watched the young prince grow into the next Emperor. He was a good boy, a rebellious teenager, and then a banished prince.Then she changed and she felt like a mother again. She longed to hold her baby, to comfort her child, to keep her son from being banished. Hanerva needed her son, she needed to help him, to be there for him when he became the greatest Emperor the Galra had ever seen.She began to rebuild, standing tall and doing her part. Her son was missing but she found him, mother and child reunited.Standing before him in her own skin as his mother was something she could never forget. He was upset after that, she understood, but she knew they could heal their relationship.Then, he slipped through her fingers and disappeared.She ordered him to be taken to his room only for an alert to show up moments later saying the sincline ships had left the hangar. She tried to contact him but the Sincline ships refused to accept her transmission. Hanvera didn’t know what was going on, why would her son leave her?No, it had to be those generals. Her son wouldn’t leave, Lotor wouldn’t leave her behind.Changing back into her Galra form, she connected with one of the Commanders she could trust.[“Commander Mar, the Emperor has been taken. The Voltron Paladins have betrayed him. Track them down and return the Emperor.”][“Vrepit Sa.”]While the Commander hunted for her son, Hanerva retreated to her rooms, gathering Quintessence and searching the universe for a sign of Voltron or her son. Yet no matter how far she searched, she couldn’t find any energy related to Voltron or Lotor.Hanerva fell to her knees, tired but unwilling to give up. She had fought for her son, done all this for her son. She needed him, she needed him to rule the Empire she had built for him.The door opened and within ticks she was Galran again, skin dark and eyes yellow to keep up the act. A druid entered, standing on the edge of her circle.[“Have you any word from Commander Mar?”][“Nothing, my Priestess. Communication with Commander Mar has been lost.”][“Emperor Lotor’s whereabouts?”][“Still unknown.”]Time was nothing to her. She continued the search, the quintants uncountable and unimportant. Hanerva would find her son no matter the time it took nor the space she traveled. She went to the areas he was known for visiting, Eventually she found herself near the remains of Daibazaal.Lotor wasn’t there but there was evidence of a battle, metal filled the area and more asteroids floated around. In the wreckage, Hanerva was startled to find an old Altean pod. Older than the ones the Paladins would use, it was like a relic of her past.Not only that, but she found Kova again.The mysterious creature from the rift who had been by her side through it all. Kova was there before she found herself split between Haggar and Honerva. Kova was there when Lotor was born, watching over him as he grew up. Kova had gone with him when Zarkon banished Lotor for working with a planet instead of ruling over them like the Emperor he is.Maybe Kova could show her where Lotor had gone, and Hanerva could see her son again.All she needed was time and thankfully, time was a servant to her.

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She worked for movements trying to find a way into Kova’s mind. She sent her druids away, kept herself in her lab and spent her vargas with Kova.Then the news came, the Commanders of Lotor’s Empire had grown weak. They thought him dead and called for a Kral Zera.Hanerva wouldn’t see her son’s Empire crumble.She shed her past life behind, changing her skin to her normal brown and let her Altean marks show. She got rid of the Galra clothing, changing into an outfit buried deep within the castle. With a few changes, Hanerva was ready for the fight to come.She stood on the top of the spire, hidden from the Commanders below. She waited, hoping for someone to stand on Lotor’s side, but that was impossible. They only wished to take from her, but this Empire was one thing Hanerva wouldn’t lose.They squabbled like children, each claiming to be stronger and better than the others. Hanerva grew tired of it and made her move, quickly silencing the Archivist. She held him up high and soon she had all of their attention.[“This flame represents Lotor, the Great Emperor of our time. Prince turned Emperor, Emperor who united the people. And my Altean blood curses through his veins. He is better than you can ever be, the strength of the Galra and the power of the Alteans combined have made him the Greatest Emperor we will ever see.”]Several drew their weapons, but it was too late.[“You have failed him, turning your back on him and grasping for his throne. You are weak, you have no place in the new Empire. You do not deserve him, and now, you shall never get the chance to disgrace him with your presence.”]Hanerva cast her spell, catching all the Commanders in the arena. The floor glowed below them and before they could fight back, they were gone with screams of pain as their bodies joined the Quintessence of the universe.Her son was not dead and when Hanerva found him, he would have an Empire to rule once more. The flame of Lotor would never go out, Hanerva would make sure of it.While the Commanders continued the search for Lotor, Hanerva did what she could to find any tracks of Lotor. She turned her attention to Kova who could tell more secrets, the creature was nothing else like Hanerva had seen before. If she could reach into Kova’s memory, she could find her son.With the circle filled with Quintessence and a piece of Lotor’s clothing in the middle, Hanerva activated the spell that would let her search Kova’s mind.Memories filled Hanerva’s mind, out of order and chaotic. Hanerva saw her own life, before the rift destroyed Daibazaal, serving as Zarkon’s advisor, the banishment of Lotor, and the birth of Lotor.Then the memories changed, moments of Lotor’s life instead. She saw him gather his Generals, he was standing before a large group of Alteans, Lotor killing Narti and then finally, the fight with Voltron.Her son had entered the rift, he had done what no other could. Hanerva saw his suit, the power he wielded. She saw him vanish, his suit left in the Quintessence Field.Hanerva fell to her knees, crying for her son who was taken too soon. He was a god, greater than any other Galra or Altean born in this age.What was she to do? She served Zarkon and with that, she served Lotor. Who was she to serve now? Who would rule the Empire she had built?Unless she could bring him home once more, reborn to rule his Empire.The journey through the Quantum Abyss was easy, Kova remembered the path to take. The facility was empty and she walked through with confidence in her steps. Even when the first sight of another Altean made her pause, a part of her yearning for her past. She had to continue forward, to build an army for her son.Hanerva found the statue in the middle depicting her son in his glory. She climbed the steps, the Alteans already gathering below.{“Who are you?”} One spoke up from the crowd.{“I am Hanerva of Altea.”}{“That is impossible. Altea was destroyed over a thousand decaphoebs ago.”}{“And I have not aged in a thousand decaphoebs, a powerful gift that I shared with my son Lotor.”}The one paused, speaking in a soft voice this time. {“Lotor’s mother?”}{“Hear me, Alteans! I am Hanerva, mother of the Great Prince Lotor who was killed by the Paladins of Voltron. To all of you who believed in my son so justly, your faith will be rewarded. I have come here today to continue Lotor’s mission. Will you avenge him with me?”}{“Yes.”} The Altean spoke strongly.Another stepped forward, the shock of white hair catching Hanerva’s attention. {“Please, can you tell us news of our sister Colony? We must, share this news.”}{“Unfortunately, they have also fallen to the evils of Voltron.”}The woman stumbled, held up by the man next to her while two children with matching white hair held the woman close.{“Are you sure?”}{“Yes.”} Hanerva narrowed her eyes, staring down at the woman. {“Voltron will pay for what they have done and we will form a new Empire, the Altean and Galran people combined to be stronger than any other nation. With your help, we will complete my son’s dream.”}The one that had spoken before kneeled. {“We pledge our allegiant to you, Hanerva, Great Mother of our Great Prince Lotor.”}Soon the other Alteans followed, even the descendants of the old Altean family. Hanerva gave a slight smile, pleased with how easily they fell for her.She needed power, Quintessence and then she could have her son again. These Alteans would do this for her and once she had enough Quintessence, not even Voltron would keep her from her family.

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With the Alteans kneeling before her, Hanerva took charge of the small colony.Hanerva loaded everyone in the Colony onto the Galra cruiser, keeping them away from the area dedicated to the Alteans still giving their Quintessence. Though Hanerva didn’t wish to continue her son’s research with them, she couldn’t leave them behind for others to find.She made her way back toward the White hole, once again the Guardian was under her control. With a single stunning spell, they forced their way through and were welcomed to Oriande. The Alteans settled down, and gathered in groups while Hanerva began to plan.The Galra Empire was strong, it would survive without an Emperor for a short while. Even so, there were a few Commanders Hanerva still kept in touch with to make sure it didn’t fall apart completely. She would have to strengthen the Alteans to match the Galra Empire which would take time.Hanerva built great buildings, small homes and changed Oriande to fit her needs. An army would need warriors and Hanerva worked out the perfect balance of Galra and Altean technology. Phoebs later the first suit was completed, perfect in every way.It was the perfect meld of Galra strength and Altean Alchemy. It was like Lotor, the power of both nations combined. The mech was perfect in every way, Hanvera was quite proud of it and how it would serve Lotor’s Empire.The Komar could fight, defend and draw out Quintessence, unbeatable and all-powerful. Merla was at her side for most of it, she was the first to kneel and Hanerva appreciated Merla’s dedication to the cause.She got an alert and Hanerva left the work area, secluding herself in her room. She answered the call, this time looking like a Galra.[“Yes, Commander Gnov.”][“I thought you would like to know, I have found the Lions of Voltron. Would you like them brought to you, Priestess?”]Voltron, finally. Hanerva hadn’t seen them in the rift, so she knew they were alive somewhere. She didn’t think they would be missing for two decaphoebs but it meant it was time for the next part of her plan.[“No, destroy them.”] Though Hanerva didn’t care what Gnov did.She had created the perfect warrior and she would finish Voltron herself. If not, she would destroy the planet they called home. They would be broken, body and soul.She found Merla working with the Komar suit as they finished the last updates.{“Excellent work, Merla.”} The Altean turned, bowing as Hanerva joined her on the platform.{“Thank you. The prototype has been finished and is ready.”}{“Perfect. Find me the most dedicated amongst us, Voltron has been found. It is time to test our first Altean Soldier.”}{“Yes, Great Mother.”}Hanerva looked over the Alteans before her, everything fitting together.The Galra Empire would be stronger than ever with the unification of the Altean Colony. The Galra and Alteans, together would be a force like none other. With Lotor at the head, she would be there as an advisor and mother for him.With the two forces combined, no planet would stand in their way, and neither would Voltron.Hanverva would do whatever it took to bring her son’s dream to life. She would sacrifice, she would lie she would scheme for him. Too long had she ignored him, too long had he grown without her love. Once this was over, they would be a family again.The Komar Mechs were complete and it was time for the universe to kneel at their feet.With Merla and young Luca at her side, Hanerva addressed the Alteans down below her, the six incomplete Komar suits on the walls around them.{“Here we stand, the light of the universe shines inside our most brave. The dream of Lotor is realized through her actions. For Luca, the first Soldier, who will take our message to those that have killed Lotor, our Great Prince.”}Hanerva turned and Luca knelt at her feet. {“Voltron will pay for what they have done, Great Mother.”}{“May Lotor guide you. Rise and avenge my son.”}Luca went to the Komar, settling inside and soon it glowed with power.It was time, they were going to Earth.The Komar left them, flying through the universe and aiming for Earth. Even as powerful as the Komar Mech was, it would take time.Hanerva kept watch with the Soldier. They reached Earth quickly and for a while, it seemed as if Luca would finish off Voltron. Yet, once again, Voltron changed and fought back, forcing the Komar down. It was a test, the first of many, it was expected to be weaker.To her surprise, Luca hadn’t died in the explosion. Hanerva was still connected to her, feeling her emotions and hearing her thoughts. Luca was strong, holding firm to her beliefs even with the humans and Alteans with her.Though Luca was a powerful soldier, Hanerva couldn’t let her secrets be spilled so quickly. She cut the connection and found Merla.{“Finish the rest of the suits. We must be ready to put our plan in action.”}Merla bowed. {“Yes, Great Mother.”}Voltron was still alive, but that was no matter. Hanerva would crush them all the same.

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Allura stood there in shock while Liah and Romelle ran toward Luca. The machines stopped beeping as the Altean’s chest stopped moving.She was gone and Allura knew Haggar was behind this. She might have changed her name, but Allura was sure of it now.They had to find the Colony before any more Alteans could be sacrificed for Haggar’s war.She met Shiro and Iverson that night while everyone else slept. Allura needed to change their plans now before it was too late.They sat in the conference room, Iverson at the head of the table, Shiro at his right while Allura was on his left. Romelle sat with Allura, their hands linked while Ah’Liah and Coran supported from behind.{“If Haggar sent that beast, then our mission must change.”}“I understand, but we have a mission, Queen Allura. The Atlas is to help liberate those in our Galaxy before spreading across the universe. We can’t jump into a wild goose chase.”“Admiral, Voltron could take the mission, we could-”“We need Voltron with us, Shirogane. Without Voltron, the Atlas doesn’t have a chance fighting this Empire you speak of. I’m sorry, but the plan has been set and I’m sticking with it. If this, Haggar, is behind it I’m sure we’ll find her along the way.”{“How long will that take? You have seen your people put into camps and killed, was it not difficult for you? My people are being used, I cannot sit while they suffer.”}Iverson sighed. “We’ll do what we can, the Paladins can focus on finding this woman while we find planets that need help. Should something happen, you are free to leave with the Paladins. I trust your judgment.”Allura didn’t sleep that night, nightmares drifting in between her dreams. One moment she’s on Altea with Romelle and then Haggar is there, a Komar destroying Altea. Voltron is winning a battle, until Haggar shows up and kills them before Allura’s eyes.Eventually she stops trying to sleep putting on the new outfit the Garrison had made for her. It was like the rest of the outfits the Garrison wore but hers was a light blue, nearly white. It also had gold lining to set her apart, and four stripes on her shoulders marked her as the Captain of the Atlas.Putting it on was strange, she was a part of the crew yet separate. She wasn’t a Paladin but she was a part of Voltron. Allura wasn’t sure if she liked being in her own category, it was rather lonely.Finally, it was time to launch and everyone had gathered before the audience would arrive. The crew wore orange and white, Romelle, Colleen and Ah’Liah were there as well. The Paladins each had their own uniforms, matching the color of their armor.They talked for a while, Hunk introduced her to his parents who hugged her before she could get a word out. Shiro stood with an older woman, Keith and Lance were with Zira while Pidge stayed with their family.And soon, Allura would be with her sister and people, no longer separated by war.The crowd before them was enormous, filled with all sorts of people. They all lined up, crew, Paladins and Iverson stood in the center to address the crowd first.“This will be perhaps the most defining moment in our history. The day humankind reaches beyond its home world to help the immense universe of which we inhabit such a small part.”“I didn’t know Iverson did speeches.” Hunk whispered loudly.“Dad wrote it. Trust me, he doesn’t do speeches.”Shiro looked over, silencing Pidge and Hunk before he stepped forward to talk.“In the blink of an eye, the world as we knew it became much larger than we’d ever thought possible. And now we rise up to join the fight alongside so many others different from us but of like minds to stand firm in the face of tyranny.”Allura stepped forward when it was her turn. “For all deserve to decide their own future as we have decided to spend our ensuring the freedom of the universe. Each and every one of you has given something to this fight. Many have been lost, but not in vain. Through their sacrifice, many more will live on. We will return triumphant, a universe at peace!”The shouts echoed around as the people sent them off. With that, it was time to say their final goodbyes, the Crew and Paladins surrounded by family before it was time to load onto the Atlas.Shiro walked with Adam who was pushed onto the craft. Hunk cried with his family one more time, though he smiled through the whole thing. Pidge walked with Matt and O’Sem while Sam was already in the engine room preparing for take-off. Zira ran forward on the ramp, chased by Keith while Lance stood there laughing.Allura was last, nodding at Admiral Iverson who would keep Earth safe for their return. She walked onto the Atlas, Coran and Ah’Liah at her side, with Romelle holding her hand. They went to the bridge where Veronica, Cutis and several other new crew additions stood waiting. Allura took her place as Captain and it was time for launch.The Paladins moved their lions to the hangar bay made for them to rest. Allura waited for them, Pidge and Hunk wanted to be there for take-off and Allura could never keep them from the bridge. The reports came in that everything was secure and they were all ready.Allura ordered the thrusters to power up and slowly they flew up, leaving the surface, then the atmosphere and soon, they left Earth behind.The first planets they visited were quick to liberate. Without Commander Gnov, some Galra soldiers easily stepped aside while other planets were only inhabited by sentries. Voltron fought when needed and Allura did what she could to push the Atlas out of the Milky Way.As they planned, they jumped near the Galra base, skipping the initial detectors to take them by surprise. Allura opened a channel before anyone could attack, trying to talk her way into a peaceful surrender.[“This is the Voltron Coalition. Lay down your arms and-”]The base began to shoot at them and Allura sighed, holding on as the Atlas was rocked by the attacks. She wasn’t sure why she kept trying, they would never listen to her.“Shields up!”{“Well, that did not take long!”} Lance shouted as Blue avoided the incoming lasers.“Fighters launching!” Keith warned.“Remember, shoot them down if needed, but try to avoid collateral damage on the ground.” Shiro reminded them.Voltron jumped into the fight, the five lions easily taking the Galra fighters coming their way. Allura watched the map on her screen, keeping track of the battle.“Shield status.” Allura looked over at Veronica.“Holding steady at ninety-five percent, but the ground cannons have us targeted, ma’am.”“Let us give the Lions some backup. Adjust our heading down to one point zero five.” Allura ordered.“Adjusting course.” Coran said back.“Lock on to the ground cannons.”{“We-we have weapons lock.”}“Fire!”The Atlas attacked back, destroying the spires that were firing upon Voltron. Allura looked down, confirming the launch sequence for the MFEs had just been completed. Four ships joined the fight, behind them were the rebel ships that would end this fight before too many lives were taken.Three dots fell toward the spires, confirming that Matt and his team were doing their part.“Paladins, let’s take out their reinforcements.” Shiro was heard again and Voltron went closer to the surface.Moments later the three main electrical towers glowed a brilliant purple before all the lights for the base were turned off.Before the Atlas could reach the surface, lasers attacked them out of nowhere.“Shield!” Allura shouted and Veronica powered it up moments after the laser fire rained down on them. “Does anyone have eyes on where these lasers are coming from?”“I’m not seeing anything on my scanners. Trying to locate point of origin now.” Pidge reported.{“Atlas, they are right behind you, two cloaked cannon satellites.”} Lance said ticks later after using Blue’s sonic cannon.“How did we miss those?” Keith asked.“It looks like we wormholed right past them.” Hunk answered.“Team, on me, form Voltron!”With Atlas taking care of the fighters and cannons on the surface, Voltron was able to transform and charge the two cannons. With their dual blades, Voltron quickly took the cannons out before the Atlas’s shield could get too weak. With the Cannons down, there was nothing standing between the Atlas and the base and Allura quickly took them down to the surface.She met up with the other Paladins, glad to see they were all safe and secure.“Wonderful job, Paladins. We have successfully gained control of the base. Let us go speak to the Commander of this base.”She met up with the other Paladins, glad to see they were all safe and secure. With that, they headed inside.

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Shiro watched the crew of the Atlas run around, helping those who needed medical attention and organizing the other sentries. They walked past it all, going right for the main building of the base to speak to the Commander.Griffen and Kinkade stood at the end of the platform with a Galra handcuffed between them. Pidge and Matt left the group, heading for the main computer.“This one says he’s the leader.” Griffen reported.“Woah!” Hunk pushed through them, walking toward the Commander. [“Holy cow! What are you doing here? It’s me, Hunk. Remember? Paladin of the Yellow Lion? We worked together.”][“I remember.”]They all joined Hunk and Shiro tried to place the Commander’s face.[“Wait, you know this guy?”] Keith asked.[“Yeah, from the Omega Shield.”] Hunk let out a gasp before continuing. [“Oh, right! You were on a space road trip with your mom.”]Keith looked over at Lance, wrapping his tail around the Altean and Shiro smiled at the possessive action. [“No, I know of the mission.”][“Anyway, this is our friend, Lieutenant Lahn.”][“It’s Warlord Lahn now, and you and I are not friends.”][“Oh. Okay, I just thought, you know, we had bonded. It’s cool. No big deal.”] Hunk looked at the ground, kicking it with his foot.[“Gnov only attacked our planet after we pledged loyalty to Voltron. Then you disappeared and left us vulnerable to more attacks. Omega Shield is gone, I vowed to never be that weak again.”]Allura broke through. [“I am sorry for your loss. It was not our intention to be gone for so long. We are here now.”][“To claim victory and rule over us?”] Lahn sneered.[“No! We came to bring balance to the universe.”][“And we didn’t come here to argue.”] Shiro added. [“Lahn, we’re asking you to join the Voltron Coalition.”][“What’s the alternative?”]Allura stood up to him, not flinching from Lahn’s glare. [“If you want peace, if you want to end this war, if you want people to stop dying, there is nothing else for you to do. The war has ruined Galra life just as much as it has killed innocents. Are you not sick of it?”][“You’ve attained victory, and I accept defeat.”] Lahn finally said.Shiro sighed, but he wasn’t sure what else he was expecting. Even the Blade of Marmora had the phrase, knowledge or death. They were raised to think they had to win at everything, and that losing was the most dishonorable thing a person could do. They were raised this way, they didn’t know anything else.He looked over to see Keith frowning as well, staring down at the Commander. Keith waited for a few seconds before he broke, talking to the Commander.[“It doesn’t have to be victory or death you know. I know it’s the Galra way but-”][“And what do you know of the Galra, kit?”][“I am Galra. My mother is a Blade of Marmora, as is the rest of my family.”]Lahn spat at the ground and Keith clenched his fists. [“The traitorous Blades have all but perished thank Kaltor. Are they so diminished in numbers that they’re forced to enlist a half-breed weakling?”]Keith opened his mouth to fight back but Lance set a hand on his shoulder. They shared a silent conversation and to Shiro’s surprise, Keith totally backed down, stepping away from the fight. He smiled, even though fighting the Commander would be justifiable.A beep thankfully interrupted the conversation and they looked over at Pidge and Matt who were at the main computer.“Guys, incoming communication.”“Patch it through, Pidge.” Shiro said.A blank screen came up as did a strange message Shiro didn’t recognize.[“Chrezvychaynaya situatsiya. Chrezvychaynaya situatsiya. Chrez...”][“It’s an emergency protocol built into the sentries when they’re under distress. Has your Voltron Coalition attacked them as well?”] Lahn sneered.[“No, we haven’t.”] Keith bit out.Shiro walked past them, trying to move the conversation forward. [“Pidge, see if you can reopen the hailing frequency.”][“I’m trying, Shiro, but no response. I’m locating the transmission’s origin, but the EMPs we set off have done a number on the communications systems. We got a comm signature, do you recognize this ship?”][“Yes, it’s Klytax V-Three. It’s one of the fifteen ships I sent on an assignment six phoebs ago. They all disappeared. We assumed them dead.”][“Looks like they aren’t. We need to get out there. Allura, how long before the Atlas is ready to launch again?”] Shiro looked over at Allura.Allura shook her head. [“Vargas. There is much to fix after the attack, we have to recharge the MFEs, and we still need to process all the Galra and prepare the planet to continue operating on its own. But we will stay here, this is the mission of the Atlas, to liberate planets and help them heal.”][“Then Voltron will go alone.”]Lahn scoffed. [“Voltron is going to save us? My fleet would never believe Voltron was there to help. They’d fight you until their last breath.”]Shiro moved forward, holding onto Lahn’s cuffs. [“That’s why you’re coming with us.”]He dragged Lahn toward Black, hiding a smile as the Galra gapped at the sight. Black was a figure from their history, it was kinda funny knowing how they honored him the same way the Alteans honored all of Voltron.They flew through space speeding toward the coordinates Pidge had sent. With Kosmo growling at Lahn, Shiro didn’t even have to worry about him getting into anything.Shiro opened a link, letting them hear Lahn as he questioned the Galra. And, he was proud to say, he was getting quite good at speaking Galran.[“What was this fleet’s mission when they left?”][“They were out gathering munitions.”] Lahn answered, still glaring at Kosmo.[“Weapons? Buying or stealing?”][“The former Galra Empire is at war with itself. Lotor left, Haggar has not been seen, we have to do what we can to survive, to hold onto our power. But, if you must know, they were salvaging weapons from an abandoned base.”]{“We have arrived.”} Lance said and Voltron slowed down.They came to a graveyard, metal filling the space around them. Among the wreckage was a single half-destroyed Galra battle cruiser with its light off.{“What happened here.”} Lance breathed.[“Uh, Warlord Lahn, didn’t you say there were fifteen cruisers sent out?”] Hunk asked.[“Where are the rest of them?”] Shiro looked around the area, sick by the sight of all the metal around them.[“I’ve got some signals coming from that ship.”] Pidge pointed to one in the back.[“Hailing Galra Cruiser Klytax V-Three. This is Shiro, Black Paladin of Voltron. Do you copy?”]Static filled their comms, no one was sending anything in response. Lahn leaned over to call for his men.[“This is your Commander, Warlord Lahn, respond.”][“Chrezvychaynaya situatsiya. Chrezvychaynaya sit...”] Finally, they heard from the ship.“Whoever’s in there, we need to find them and get them out. Everyone, stay alert. We’re going in.”Voltron flew over to the ship, stopping near the hangar door.“If I can access the ship’s security network, we should be able to find out what happened here.”“Sounds good, Pidge. Team, Lahn and I are going in first to make sure the entry point is safe. You guys jetpack in behind us. Keith, I don’t think your wolf is going to leave any time soon with the death glare he’s sending Lahn.”“Copy.” The team reported.Shiro jumped out with Lahn and Kosmo, holding onto the wolf as he teleported them inside the ship. Lahn moved over to the console to open the door while Shiro scanned the area. There were no soldiers or sentries, it was like the ship had been abandoned.With nothing to fight and the door opened, Shiro called for the team. “All clear.”Keith and the team flew through the door moments later. Pidge then hacked into the console, trying to understand anything about this ship and what happened.“Anything yet, Pidge?”“There are multiple biorhythms, but they're intermittent, almost random. It doesn’t make any sense, sorry Shiro.”[“Okay then, we’ll have to split up to find any survivors. Hunk and Lance, clear the aft of the ship. Keith, take the bow and work your way toward them. Pidge and I will take Lahn to go through the security logs. Find out what happened here.”][“I don’t like taking orders on my own ship.”] Lahn whined.[“And I don’t care. If you want to find out what happened to your soldiers, you’ll work with us.”]They split up after that, Keith going off on his own, Lance practically pulling Hunk in one direction while Shiro and Pidge followed Lahn in another.

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Kosmo took his job as guard dog seriously, staring down Lahn as they made their way to the bridge. Pidge was going to have to find space dog treats, he was being such a good boy.They found the control room without issue and when Lahn put his hand on the dashboard it started to turn on, but there just was too much damage. Lahn couldn’t get into the system, at least, not on his own.[“It’s useless!”] Lahn growled. [“The ship is in lockdown and the systems can’t be rebooted. We’ll need to contact my base for the security keys.”][“Or, we could just do this.”] Pidge slipped in, holding up their bayard which was now a USB.Within seconds, Pidge was in the system and had the cameras pulled up. They smirked over at Lahn but the Galra had no visible reaction.Pidge pulled up one of the cameras, but their view wasn’t clear. The picture kept glitching and freezing, something was making it freak out.“Pidge, what’s wrong with it?”“Not entirely sure, but it’s corrupted. Let me see if I can clean this up.”Pidge focused on the data, trying to figure out what was interfering and making the picture glitch. They paused, watching Lahn fly toward the massive window, looking out at the graveyard.One thing they relearned during all this work with the Atlas was how wounded the Galra were as well. They were a broken people, scrambling for power and anything to feel stronger. Pidge felt for them, their fight was understandable and the only thing the whole people knew for hundreds of years.Change was hard, probably the most difficult thing a person could do. Maybe this would be what Lahn needed to see, this could be what made him decide to fight for his people rather than fight his own people.Pidge continued to work, doing what they could for the corrupted frames and pixels until they got something a little clearer.[“I think I’ve got something.”]Lahn came back down and Shiro leaned over Pidge’s shoulder and they zoomed in on the camera they had been focusing on.[“The soldier is here, but after the flash, he’s gone. You see that shadow that’s behind the sentry, after the flash, the shadow is on the other side of the screen.”][“Is it from another soldier?”][“I don’t think so, Shiro. That’s less than a tenth of a second for the shadow to travel.”] Pidge stopped the frame, scanning the shadow. [“Hold on, it looks like the trajectory of the lighting angles combined with the proximity to the soldier are distorting the shadow’s shape.”]Pidge did what they could to fix the angles, widening the shadow’s frame and leveling it out. In the end they had a bipedal creature with a tail and hunched back. It wasn’t any creature Pidge knew, something that didn’t make them feel any better.[“What is that thing?”]Shiro shook his head. [“I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s not a species you recognize?”][“No. I don’t even know how it got onto this ship.”] Lahn had no answer either.This thing was on the ship and most likely what killed everyone on these ships.And they were now locked on this ship with this creature.They were going to die here.They were going to fucking die here.

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Hunk hated this. Hunk hated this. Hunk hated this. Hunk hated this.Hunk wanted to leave right now, they should leave right now, they needed to leave.Hunk knew horror films, Pidge had forced him to watch enough to know what happened when the team split up and explored an abandoned area in the dark.They were going to be attacked, killed off one by one and Hunk just knew this was going to happen. He was alone with Lance and this was how he was going to die.Being with Lance made him feel slightly better, but not so great.They just needed to finish this mission and leave as soon as possible.“Th-the escape pods are still here.”{“Yes, but there are no Galra.”}No Galra left. Maybe they were torn into little pieces, eaten by space insects. Or they turned on each other because of a crazy drug. The Paladins would follow as well, unable to ever get out of this ship alive-{“Hunk?”}He looked up, unable to even smile at Lance.{“I know you are scared, but we must push through this. I promise, once we get out of this we will not have to explore such terrifying ships in the dark again.”}“You can’t promise that, Lance.” Though Hunk was starting to feel better. “I don’t like it though, where did the Galra go with the escape pods still here?”{“I do not know. Come, let us continue.”}They left the hangar, turning down another hall. With the power off, they had to pull the doors open, flying into the abandoned cafeteria.Still on edge, Hunk scanned the area, plates and cups filling the area.Then he turned, screaming as a helmet came right for him. He flailed, fighting it off until he realized that it was just an empty bucket. He fixed himself, glaring over at Lance who was snickering. Then he began to full-out laugh, rolling through the zero gravity.“You. You don’t say a word, a word, about this to Pidge. Got that?”Lance continued to laugh, even as they went back to investigating.Things changed when they went down another hallway. Lance heard it first, freezing and turning his light down an endless passageway. Hunk followed, stopping once he heard a growl coming from the darkness.“Did-did-did you hear that?”{“Uh huh.”}“It sounded, sounded like an animal.”{“Yes, it did.”}“So, we’re going to turn around and leave, right?”Lance just swallowed and flew into the dark tunnel and Hunk groaned. Of course they were going down the scary, creepy tunnel toward the snarling and growling sounds.They stopped near a large opening and Hunk grimaced at the sight of four long scratches dug into the edge of the door. Inside they found the crystal that was supposed to be powering the ship, but there was a shadow standing in front of it.The shadow began to glow and change in size, growing taller and wider. The crystal fell to the floor, drained of its energy and the monster let out a terrifying roar.Hunk couldn’t have said anything even if he wanted to, not with his racing heart in his throat. In unison, he and Lance backed away, not wanting to be mauled by this beast. They were young, they had so much to live for.“Guys! Be on the lookout for a giant, deadly monster.” Hunk scrambled with the controls on his helmet, unsure why Pidge’s voice was so loud right now.“We believe it’s what attacked the crew, avoid it at all costs.”“Copy that.”Hunk looked through the door, stopping when he saw the monster staring right back at him. It had no eyes, but it was defiantly looking at him. Its mouth opened a little as it growled, rows of sharp teeth glinting with the low light.“Lance, Hunk, do you copy?”Shit, they were so dead.The monster charged and they were left scrambling to get away. Even with their jetpacks, the monster would always appear when they turned a corner. Until, it just stopped.There were no more sounds, no more popping up and scaring the crap out of Hunk. The beast wasn’t following them anymore and Hunk couldn’t have been happier.“Hunk? Lance?”Hunk took a breath, leaning on the wall to gather his wits again. “We’re, we’re okay, Pidge. But, uh, I think we found your monster. Oh, gosh, it’s huge, guys, don’t take it on alone.”This time Shiro spoke on comms. “Keith, did you hear that? Keith, come to the bridge now. Keith?”Hunk didn’t like this at all.They began to fly again, this time not stopping until they found the bridge and Pidge, Shiro, and Lahn. Oh, Hunk was so happy to see them again! Hunk let out a sigh, finally relaxing.“Keith, report in.” Shiro reached to Keith once more before he turned around. “Glad you guys made it, are you okay?”{“Shiro, we must get out of here now! We saw the monster, it was too fast, too strong. Wait, is Keith still not responding?”}Lance started to leave, bayard in his hand but Shiro blocked off his path. “Keith’s a great warrior, he’ll be fine. I’m not letting you go out there, we don’t know what we’re fighting.”{“He’s out there! He is out there with a monster and you want me to stay here? No, Shiro, no quiznaking way am I going to sit here while he is out there, possibly being attacked by that thing.”}[“We just watching that thing take out one of my men in an instant. Do you think you can take it on alone, little Prince?”]Lance turned, chest heaving and eyes full of fire as he glared down the commander. [“Do not, call me that.”]The ship then shook and everyone stopped.Oh, Hunk had a really bad feeling about this!

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He kept his light off, Galra saw better in the dark than humans would see with a flashlight. With everything in shades of green, he ventured into the empty ship. Keith kept his bayard in his hand though, he had a bad feeling about this ship.Keith didn’t like the idea of them splitting up. He understood where Shiro was coming from, the ship would take too long to investigate if they stuck together. Still, this meant they were all vulnerable to whatever attacked these ships.Keith stopped at a strange hole, looking through it. Something big had torn through several levels of the ship, cutting through the metal like it was nothing. His sick feeling got worse, only a creature could do such a thing.This ship hadn’t been attacked by other people or even other Galra. They were on the hunt for a creature, an animal.Or maybe, the animal was hunting them.Keith could hear something, banging and moving around. He left the strange tunnel, sword held up as he slowly moved forward. The banging got louder; something was definitely down this hall.He let out a breath when he came across a sentry stuck in a door. A sentry was much better than coming across an animal. Keith inspected it but it was just sending out the emergency signal, nothing else. He pulled it free, letting it float in the hall before he continued.“Guys! Be on the lookout for a giant, deadly monster.” Keith really wished he would be wrong for once.“We believe it’s what attacked the crew, avoid it at all costs.”“Copy that.” Keith confirmed.As if he was going to seek out a giant monster. They just needed to scan the ship once and then they could leave if no one else was here. Keith really wasn’t looking for a fight.Huh, he never thought he’d say that.“Lance, Hunk, do you copy?” Pidge asked again when they didn’t respond.Keith froze when a scream came through the comms, this one sounded like it came from Hunk. Couldn’t Lance go through one mission without giving Keith a heart attack? Keith hovered, holding out his light as he waited to hear back from Hunk or Lance.“We’re, we’re okay, Pidge.” Keith shook his head and continued down the hallway. “But, uh, I think we found your mon-” Hunk’s voice suddenly cut out.“Hunk? Lance, anyone?”No one responded to Keith’s call and he sighed. This ship was damaged and full of metal, it was possible something was blocking their communications. He didn’t like it, but he only had two more areas to cover before he could go back to the bridge.[“...”] Keith held up his sword, hearing something but he couldn’t make out the words.[“...Are. You?”] The voice came again and Keith saw the sentry floating in the hallway. [“What. Are. You?”][“My name is Keithir, Red Paladin of Voltron and member of the Blade of Marmora.”]The sentry went silent and he thought back to how Shiro reached out earlier. Good thing the sentry repeated the emergency call several times, otherwise he’d never be able to pronounce the long Galran words.[“Chrezvychaynaya situatsiya?”][“I have lost communication with my team. Where are the rest of the Galra?”]Strange, wouldn’t the sentry know where they came from? [“Planet Ryker. Don’t you know-”][“Good.”]The sentry was then tossed aside, and a creature came out from the wall, mouth open and claws ready to attack. It threw two destroyed sentries at him and he quickly cut one in half and flew in the opposite way.Keith was a great fighter and he had confidence in himself and his skills.There was no fucking way he was going to take on this beast by himself.A laser beam cut through the dark and he managed to pull up his shield in time to block it. The shield did nothing though, the blast pushed him back, sending him right into a metal wall. He gasped at the impact, groaning as it shot another blast that barely grazed his leg.Keith turned, holding his leg as he watched the laser melt the metal walk behind him. Okay, don’t get hit, at all.He flew away as fast as he could, zig-zagging as the monster followed him. It was fast, but it moved in sprints. It would be at the end of the hall and then right next to him in a second, but then it would hesitate for a moment. Keith kept pushing, needing to get to the bridge and the rest of his team.This beast was unlike anything he’d ever seen, especially with how it manipulated that sentry. How could they not have known that a creature like this existed? Coran and Pidge had both taught them for hours at the castle, talking about different species and creatures.Then, he had a terrifying thought that pushed him to fly faster. They needed to get off this ship. Now!The beast kept firing at him but this time, he was able to avoid all the hits. As he flew, he tried connecting to Wolf. Keith couldn’t lead the monster to the team, but he had to get to the bridge somehow.Thankfully, Wolf responded and they left the best behind in a flash of light. Keith had only been on the bridge for a second before Lance was throwing himself at him and scanning for wounds. Keith hissed when Lance touched his leg and the prince gave him a glare.{“Next time we split up, I am going with you.”}Lance pulled him to the team and everyone seemed to relax.Shiro joined them, holding Keith’s shoulders and looking down at the burn mark on his Paladin armor. “Keith, I’m glad you’re here. What happened? Are you okay?”[“I’m fine. Lahn, the base you sent this fleet to plunder, was it Ranveig’s?”][“Yes, it was.”][“Great, just great.”] Keith didn’t think this would be a problem, Krolia said it wasn’t a problem.[“Keith, what is going on. You have to talk to us.”][“Shiro, I know this creature. It’s a superweapon designed to destroy Galra and only Galra. It-”][“Warlord Ranveig would never create such a thing.”] Lahn insisted and Keith was getting tired of dealing with this guy.[“It was found in the Quantum Abyss and Ranveig experimented on it with Lotor’s Pure Quintessence he had found. He trained it to take out his Galran enemies, but he could never control it. The beast couldn’t differentiate between adversaries and allies.”][“And how could someone like you know so much about this supposed creature?”][“My mother told me. Krolia was there when it was found, when it was experimented on. She was undercover with the name Alokri, she knew what the beast could do.”] Lahn seemed to recognize it and Keith fought back a smirk. [“And, because Krolia and I let it loose so we could escape Ranveig’s base. But it wasn’t supposed to survive, she said the Galra would be able to kill it. I’m sorry, it wasn’t-”][“Then this is all your fault.”] Keith looked up, meeting Lahn’s glare. [“This beast has aimed this ship toward my base, this beast has killed all of my men, this beast is going to kill the people I have protected and you think ‘sorry’ is going to excuse all you’ve done?”][“Lahn-”] Keith tried to reason but the Warlord wasn’t done yet.[“This is what you’ve wanted all along, something to get rid of my people for you. Because I didn’t go along with your Coalition, you’ll bring a monster to my base. You-”][“Look I don’t know what it’s gonna take to get it through your skull, but we’re not your enemy. I didn’t know this thing was alive, I didn’t bring it here, it was an accident. It’s not my fault. But, we do need to stop it before it goes to your base and kills more innocent people. Can you at least agree to that?”}Lahn went silent and Keith was glad that he finally stepped down. Them being angry or feeling bad wasn’t going to stop this creature. They needed to work together to get off this ship and to kill the beast.[“Pidge, can you initiate the self-destruct protocol?”] Shiro asked, changing topics. [“We need to destroy this ship and the monster with it.”]Pidge went back to the computer. [“Okay, I’m on it. Once I initiate, we’ll have two doboshes to exit the ship.”][“Uh, are you sure about that? That doesn’t seem like enough time.”]Pidge left the computer which now had a red symbol on it, pushing Hunk toward the exit. [“Then you better move quickly, Hunk!"]They all turned around and Keith summoned his sword, watching the beast that was now blocking the doorway. Everyone followed, Shiro with his purple blade, Pidge had their daggers, Hunk carried his hip cannon while Lance stood with his blaster.They had no time to fight, but they were ready to claw their way out. Together.The ice shattered and the beast jumped to attack. The Paladins scattered, surrounding the monster. Kosmo leapt without a sign but the thing grabbed hold of him. Lance fired before it could attack Kosmo, and the thing let go to fire at Lance. He dodged, and Shiro yelled for them to leave.Lahn didn’t seem to get the signal, he was still firing upon the creature while everyone made their escape. Keith dropped to pick him up, only for the door to close on them, keeping the team on the other side.{“Keith!”}Keith turned, staring down the beast while the Paladins talked on the other side of the door. They jumped around it, Keith tried to get whatever hits in that he could but he just couldn’t get close enough. If only he had a weapon like Lance, maybe then he could do something.He turned, watching as the beast opened his mouth again to fire at Lahn. Keith flew into the way, holding up his shield only to be pushed back by the beam again. He smacked into the door, his back was really going to be bruised after this.They were running out of time, the door wasn’t opening and Lahn wasn’t backing down from the fight. The monster knocked his gun away but Lahn curled his fists, ready to charge in empty-handed.Red growled in his head and he jumped for Lahn, keeping him back while he held out his bayard. It changed before his arms, forming a gun that was slightly larger than Lance's. Without even questioning it, he fired and the hit made the beast stop in its advance.Keith fired, again and again, slowly pushing it back until it was held against the console. With another shot, it broke through sent deep into the mechanics of the ship.He turned, meeting Lahn’s surprised eyes.[“You trust me yet?”]Lahn said nothing so he turned his attention to the door blocking their path.“Guys, clear the hallway. We’re coming through!”He waited for a few seconds before firing the blaster. After a few hits it tore through, making a large enough opening for them to fly through.Shiro paused for one second, sharing a look with Keith before leading the team out. They tore through the ship, leaving the monster and bomb behind.“Ten ticks!” Pidge warned.“The cargo bay where we entered is the nearest exit point.” Hunk said.An explosion came from behind them, the beast hadn’t been delayed as long as Keith had hoped.They made it to the hangar but there wasn’t enough time for them to open the doors manually. Keith moved toward the front, shooting at the door until there was another hole for them. They made it outside just before their time ran out.The explosion threw them further into space, Keith reached out for the team but they were all too far away. He spun out of control, but before he could get too far, Red swallowed him. Keith caught his breath before running up toward the cockpit, confirming that the other Lions were there and that all the Paladins were safe.He sat in his chair as the rest of the ship exploded, out of breath.Yet another successful mission.

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Surprisingly, the mission brought a change to Lahn.They reached the base and with Romelle and Lance fretting about his leg, Lahn met with Allura.[“I do not like this, but I don’t see another way to protect my people. We will join your Coalition, with the request that I can stay here with my people.”][“I understand, and I appreciate your willingness to work with us. The Coalition is not to rule over people, but to provide support to systems. As long as you rule fairly as a leader, not a warlord, I leave these people in your hands.”]Lahn gave something that could be considered a smile.[“I would like to address them.”][“Everyone has left the medical bay, they have been waiting for you.”] Romelle said.The team followed, Keith ignored the crutch Romelle held out, leaning on Lance instead. Shiro stood at his other side and Keith was grateful for their support.Lahn stood in a park-like area and the area around them was full of Galra Soldiers, Rebels and Blades. With Voltron behind him, Lahn stood to speak to his people.[“The Galra Empire may be in ruins, but its warriors are still needed to maintain stability. Twice the Paladins of Voltron have risked their lives for me, and though there is much to change, I believe working with them will bring glory to the Galra people. I pledge loyalty to a united front with the Voltron Coalition and I encourage you all to do the same.”]There was a pause before they began to cheer, most likely excited for the return of the Galra Empire. It used to be a source of pride, but with the Empire basically destroyed, their pride took a blow as well. With this, the Galra people could be proud again, proud of something better than before.Then, they were back off into space.They answered a few calls, freeing small planets and giving aid to those who needed it. Some Warlords needed convincing like Lahn, others agreed easily after hearing how many other Commanders were joining the Coalition.On the rare case that Altas was busy and they would get another call, Voltron would leave to help. The Atlas would finish taking care of the planet while Voltron put down battle cruisers, pirate ships and pretty much anything that oppressed the planets in those systems.The Atlas was on Vlexar, giving medical treatment when the report came that there was another attack. Voltron quickly freed the planet from the mercenaries and was on their way back when they got a message from Allura.“We have just finished working with the people on Vlexar, what is your report on the mission?”“All good here, Allura." Shiro said. "We would set a rendezvous point to meet up again.”Moments later, Coran responded. “The Baltuf Nebula would make a good rendezvous point for both of us.”“Send us the coordinates. See you soon.” Shiro responded.Keith pushed Red forward, following Shiro toward the meet-up zone. Except, about an hour later Coran was back on the comms, directing them toward a lone planet that was closer to the both of them. About an hour after that, they finally saw the planet.“Coming up on rendezvous point, straight ahead.” Pidge updated.The surface of the planet was bare, rocky and hot. Volcanoes dotted the land leaving the trees void of leaves and the surface dry. Voltron landed, with no sight of Atlas in the sky or on the land.“Anyone find it odd that Coran changed the rendezvous point to this place?”“I’m sure it’s fine, Hunk. Just keep an eye out for the Atlas.”“Shiro, I’m reading high CO2 and low oxygen in the atmosphere. We’ll need our suits to breathe if we go out there.”“Uh, I’m not going out there Pidge. Heck nah.”Red sent an alert and Keith looked down as the system said another ship entered the atmosphere. “They’re here.”Until the Atlas in the sky started to glitch out, purple showing through instead of white. Eventually, the shield broke, revealing a Galra Battle Cruiser coming down to meet them.“It’s a trap! Team, in the air, now” Shiro shouted and Red leapt away before he could even finish talking.They couldn’t get away fast enough. A tracker beam was shot out of the cruiser, freezing all the Lions in their tracks. They were pushed down, forced to the ground and Red couldn’t fight back.{“It is just like when we were caught by Zethrid and Ezor!”}“Well, we’re about to be captured again!” Keith warned.“Get out of your Lions! The pirates can’t pilot them, we can always steal the Lions back. Eject, now!”Keith jumped out, following Shiro’s orders and leaving Red behind. They were small enough to get away, but fighters were launched and following them.“Atlas, come in!” Shiro called.{“Lura, we are under heavy fire!”}“Our communications are being jammed, they aren’t going through!” Pidge shouted as they tried to fly out of the fighter's range.Shiro led them into the dead trees and they hid close to the roots, watching as the fighters flew overhead. He let out a breath, looking back at where the Lions were still stuck. They had survived, but they would have to find a way to get the Lions out and away from this planet without dying. This wasn’t going to be easy.“Shiro, what are going to do? That beam has the Lions pinned.” Keith looked over at the man.“Guys, I think we were set up, but I have no idea who would do it.”“Hunk, most of the universe either hates us or loves us, it could be anyone.” Pidge answered.Shiro stepped forward. “It doesn’t matter. We have the advantage of sneaking around. We’ll go around the back and fly up to the ship.”Lance had his bayard out, scanning the sky for problems when he suddenly spoke up. {“We have a problem, something is coming this way. Small, not a ship.”}They jumped out of the way just before the small red drone could fire upon them. They kept running, jumping and flying out of the way as it followed them. The trees provided a little cover, but that also meant they were left jumping over fallen trees.“We need to lose it!” Hunk shouted.{“Pidge, is there anything we can do to throw it off of us?”}“Yeah, I’ve got an idea, but I need a minute.”“I’ll buy you some time.” Hunk turned around, cannon on his hip before he fired into the air.Everyone landed behind him, keeping Pidge in the center as they leaned over their gauntlet. Keith used his new upgrade, providing cover with Lance and Hunk.“Got it! It shouldn’t be able to detect us anymore.”They stopped firing and Keith watched the drone fly around them. It made a circle, low and high in the air and they slowly started to creep away.And then it started firing again. They scattered, thankfully the drone had missed all of them, but it meant that whatever Pidge had done hadn’t worked.“No no no no no no no no...” Hunk said over and over again as they ran.Shiro found a hill and led them over, Keith pulled Lance to one side, pulling up his shield as the drone fired. Hunk, Pidge and Shiro were on the other side of the gap, hiding behind the dirt wall.“We need something to draw its attention!” Shiro yelled over the laser fire.{“I will be right back!”} Lance answered, holding Keith’s hand for a moment before he ran away.Moments later there was the sound of a tree falling and Keith looked over the hill to watch the cut tree fall and fill the air with dust. With the cover Keith stood up, launching his sword and hoping that Red would guide it. There was a thud and Keith broke through the dust to see the drone on the floor, sword impaling it.The team joined him and he called his blade back. Shiro patted his shoulder and Lance held his hand for another brief second. Keith never thought he would appreciate such small gestures so much.“I might be able to hack into it.” Pidge said happily before leaning over the drone.While they worked they sat on the ground, Lance and Hunk trying to play rock, paper, scissors while Keith sat silently with Shiro.It was hard to admit he still had nightmares, that there were moments when Shiro would talk through the comms and Keith would freak out. They hadn’t talked about the fight again and honestly, Keith didn’t want to. Instead, they would sit together quietly, learning how to interact with each other again. Sometimes, they would sit with Adam, telling their stories and being scolded by Adam. That hadn’t been so bad, but Adam had his own brush with death that probably made the scolding less intense.Finally, Pidge stood up, and everyone else followed as they held out their gauntlet.“It’s Galra tech, but it’s been infused with Olkari elements. This thing has been locking on to our key encryption protocol that’s built into our suits.”“Can’t we just, turn the proto thing off?” Keith asked.“Nope. If the drone had our encryption protocol, then so does that cruiser and anyone on it. If we want to avoid detection, we need to lose our suits.”{“Remove our armor? In this place? I am unsure about this, Pidge.”}Hunk held up a finger as he panicked. “Uh, do you remember what you said about the atmosphere? Cause, I remember what you said about the atmosphere. Oxygen low, CO2 high. We’re not gonna last long, a few hours, maybe.”Shiro paused before looking at Pidge. “Are you sure about this?”“At this point, we’ll survive longer without them. I’m sure, Shiro.”“Then, that’s what we’ll do. Split up, circle back around to the ship and watch out for the drones. You four, stick together and watch out for each other.”“What about you?” Keith asked.Shiro summoned his sword, purple lighting up the area and for a moment, Keith hated the familiar deadly look in Shiro’s eyes.“I’ll take care of the pirates.”

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Lance was really rather fond of the Paladin Armor. It was strong enough to block most hits, deflecting lasers and blades. The Armor kept Lance alive through several, several missions.And, he liked to think it looked really good. Personally, he’d never go without it on a Volcano Planet when they were being hunted by pirates.“Are you sure this is the right way to the lions?” Pidge asked again.“Gotta be honest, every direction looks the same.” Hunk said.“Oh, what I'd give for a GPS right now.”“Guys, stop freaking out. We’ll be fine, we’ve lived without tech before, and we’ll do it now.” Moments later Keith sighed, shoulders dropping. “Okay, I’m lost.”“Great job, Keith. Glad you took charge and said you would get us out of here.”“Oh, what are we gonna do? What are we gonna do?”Lance took a glance around the area before pointing in a direction. {“They are that way.”}“And how do you know, Lance.” Pidge said, hands on their hips.“Do you have a scanner or something? Or is it magical Altean genes that make it so you’re never lost?” Hunk looked hopeful that it was the latter option.Lance shook his head, gesturing up to the mountain before them. {“No, there is no scanner nor Altean magic. I looked at the volcano. It was on our left when we came in, by putting it on our ride side, it means that way leads us to our Lions.”}“Oh, snap, nice one Lance!” Hunk high-fived him before walking forward with Pidge.Keith stayed at his side, not saying anything but Lance smiled at the feeling of Keith wrapping his tail around Lance’s leg. When he was trying to be discreet about PDA, Keith would often hook his tail around Lance’s arm or leg. For some reason, the motion made Lance giddy every time it happened.They started running when something started firing at them and Lance was getting tired of running away all the time.“More drones?” Hunk complained.“No, look!” Keith pointed at the three hidden gunmen in the trees above them.Well, that was actually the better option. They weren’t followed by a machine, but it meant they now had to outrun these pirates. The Paladins ran through the trees and jumped off a short ledge, landing on the surface below. The surface wasn’t strong enough though and it cracked below their feet. Lance reached out, grasping Keith’s hand as they fell into the hole.They hit the ground with a thud, but jumped up quickly. No doubt the gunmen would follow, they needed to get to the Lions as soon as possible.Soon they began to feel the effects of the atmosphere, it was harder to breathe, harder to run and Lance was ready to take a break.Hunk fell first, hitting his knees and everyone else stopped. Pidge sat with him while Keith seemed the least affected, standing with his hands on his knees. Lance leaned on the stone wall, drawing as much air as he could into his lungs.“We need, to hurry.” Hunk said between harsh breaths. “They’re right, behind us.”“The CO2 is poisoning us by the minute, and we don’t know where we’re going anymore. We can’t just keep running.”{"Alright, what are we to do?“}Keith spoke up, pulling out his bayard. “We have to make a stand.”They made their way to the surface, and while Pidge and Hunk schemed, Lance tried to find the Lions again. The underground tunnels had them going in the wrong direction for a while, but they could fix that quickly.They worked together to set up the plan and once it was ready, they hid in the trees, weapons drawn. Lance held out his sword, noting Hunk wielding his hammer, Keith his sword and Pidge held their daggers.Now they just had to wait.The pirates came out of the tunnel moments later and Pidge cut the line, sending the giant fallen log toward them. With them distracted, Lance jumped into the fight with the others.Hunk quickly swung and knocked one out while Lance took another by surprise, knee to his chest while he kept his blade over the pirate's throat. He checked with the others; Pidge had one stunned with electricity coursing from their blades into the pirate while Keith stood over the final one.Hunk untied the log, using the rope to tie up the pirates. Pidge dug around, taking their weapons and items before leaving them in the woods. Pidge had stolen their scanner and they needed to get to the Lions sooner rather than later.They came to the area from before, tired and out of breath. Now they had to find a way to get inside the cruiser without jetpacks or Lions.Pidge had the great idea to use the drones, calling them back with their stolen device. It was a crazy plan, but when they came back, Pidge jumped onto one and let it carry them up toward the ship.Hunk was a mess waiting for them, pacing back and forth, biting his nails and muttering. Lance chose to sit down, leaning his head back against a rock. Keith leaned against a tree, arms crossed as he glared at the beam like he could cut through himself.With nothing to do, they sat and tried taking slow breathes. Pidge said they only had a few doboshes or so left which really didn’t make Lance relax. He’d rather not die here.The tracker beam cut out moments later and the Lions all stood, freed from their prison. Black left them immediately, going toward his Paladin while Lance stood to welcome back Blue. She walked forward, nuzzling his hand with a purr.Now they just had to get off this rock. Preferably before they ran out of oxygen.

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Shiro kept his armor on, hoping to draw out as many pirates as he could. Once they got to the Lions, they could reach Atlas, and they would be able to take care of the pirates together. He just needed to hold out for a while.Shiro was good at surviving, probably the only thing he was really good at now.He flew as far away as he could from the Lions, jumping over lava rivers and geysers as he made it toward the larger volcano. It would be a great spot for a pickup when Black was freed from the tracker beam. Higher ground would also give him the advantage of seeing who was coming after him.Once he was in position, he took off his armor, setting the trap. Shiro then settled behind another rock, sword drawn and ready.The first one that came up the mountain was quiet. She crept across the surface, blaster held high as she aimed at his empty suit.Before she turned around, he had her knocked out on the ground.He hadn’t been expecting the second one.They came from behind, kicking Shiro down to the ground. He rolled, standing up and meeting the pirate’s eyes. They were hidden behind a mask, a gray cloak behind them and a sword drawn in their hand.Instead of attacking, the pirate took off their mask, revealing scared orange skin, scale-like skin, a broken horn on one side as well as a cut-up ear. The pirate glared and there was something about those eyes that was familiar, though Shiro couldn’t place it.[“Didn’t expect to see me again, did you, Champion?”]Shiro was thrown into the past, into a fight where he barely made it out alive. He had been fighting a reptilian-like creature, too fast and too agile for him. Shiro had started to attack like a wild animal, slashing and tearing his opponent apart. He had won and survived for another day, but he walked out of the ring with another person’s blood on his hands.[“I bet you don’t even recognize me.”] The pirate hissed. [“One of fight out of many, am I right, Champion? I spent my life trying to be more than trash under the Galra’s feet. I nearly died in that ring, I was almost a Champion and then you came along. Weak, breakable, easy to beat, that’s what I thought of you. I won’t make that mistake again.”]Nic Holas charged after that, sword held high to give a killing blow. Shiro rushed to block, falling to his knees as the pirate loomed over him. Nic pushed him down and Shiro rolled again, narrowly missing several stabs.He remembered this fight, Shiro’s opponent had been too fast for him to get a hit in, and that much hadn’t changed. Nic was fast, slashing out with his sword inches from giving Shiro another scar. Shiro did what he could, but the fight wasn’t going so well.Shiro did manage to knock Nic’s sword out of his hands but that didn’t help at all. The pirate started punching and kicking, fighting too quickly for Shiro to keep up. His sword faded away and he held up his arms, trying to block whatever hits he could. `The kicks and punches chipped away at him, taking his energy. Nic got a good punch in, sending Shiro flying and crashing upon the harsh ground. Nic followed, kicking Shiro and sending him off a small cliff. He groaned, holding his side as he tried standing up.[“You took everything away from me!”] Another kick. [“I couldn’t go back into the ring, they saw me as a failure!”] Shiro stood, only to get several punches in return. [“I am not a failure! I am not trash!”] The next kick forced the air out of his lungs.Nic watched him stand up, eyes watching every moment as Shiro put up his arms to continue the fight. He was hurting, but Shiro wasn’t done.Nic spun around and the kick sent Shiro closer to the volcano suddenly below them. The rock peninsula wasn’t long nor large, Shiro was running out of space.He needed to end this, before it was too late.His arm began to hum and he felt Black with him. On instinct, Shiro put his knuckles together, watching the purple glow crawl down his arm and into his other hand. When he pulled his hands apart, black ridges covered his fists with raised purple bumps along his knuckles.Energy flowed through him and this time, Shiro charged. His fist met Nic’s jaw and he was sent flying, the punch more powerful now than it had been before. Shiro fought his way away from the edge, this time his hits were much stronger.With Nic on the floor, Shiro stood over him, hoping to end this without bloodshed.[“Look, I know you were hurt but I didn’t want to fight you. We both were trying to survive; we both were victims. Stop this, you won’t have to fight to live if you join the Voltron Coalition. The time for fighting is over, yield.”][“Victory, or death.”] Nic Holas sneered.Nic reached for something in his cloak but Shiro reacted first. His brass knuckles shifted, and the blade on his arm stopped Nic in his tracks. Shiro waited, watching as his chest stuttered before finally pulling the blade free.There were people willing to join the Coalition, some who needed convincing and unfortunately there were some who would never agree. Shiro was tired of walking away with blood on his hands.A roar was heard in his head and he looked up, watching as Black flew toward him. Shiro ran to get his armor, slapping some handcuffs on the other Pirate before welcoming his old friend.Pidge happily chatted on the comms, talking about the Olkari that had mimicked their voices to send messages to Atlas to keep them away. They sounded quite impressed, even though this Olkari was the reason they were out here in the first place.Atlas arrived on the planet moments later, Allura filling the comms with worried questions. Lance tried to answer, doing his best to answer while Allura fretted about.Shiro passed over the Pirate he had while Keith pushed forward four others. Shiro tried to not think about how there should have been one more.|”Sneaky with wonderful jamming abilities, I’m impressed. It’s nice to find others on my level.”|Pidge beamed at the Olkari. |”You’re the one with the voice modulator. Though, next time you should research who you’re tracking. Veronica said that you calling Lance the Navigator is what got you caught.”||”I’ll keep that in mind, little one, for next time.”|Allura crossed her arms, meeting the Olkari’s smirk. |”Next time?”||”When I’m working with you of course. After all, I need a new job and if the pay and conditions are good, I’ll work with anyone.”|Allura didn’t seem too happy with the answer but she didn’t argue either. Lance left with her while Hunk and Pidge talked to the Olkari.He wasn’t expecting Keith to come up and talk to him.Things changed after Kuron and it made sense. Shiro did what he could to give Keith space, he didn’t want to make Keith uncomfortable again. Still, it was hard, Keith was his brother.“You alright? What happened?”“Someone from my past. He, he wouldn’t yield.”Keith reached out, hand gentle on his shoulder. Shiro relaxed, seeing how comfortable Keith was and there was nothing more for them to say.Shiro gladly showered, cleaning off his flight suit and armor. Dressed in his uniform, he went back to the bridge after Pidge had called for them.“I downloaded some intel from Lahn’s cruiser and I’ve been digging through all the data. I, I think there might be another one of Haggar’s beasts out there.”“Another one?” Hunk groaned.Allura sat on the Captain's podium, head in her hands. {“What are we to do? The Atlas has a mission to help planets and we cannot stop saving those people who need us. We are known now, the Atlas is starting to be seen as a hero like Voltron. I cannot leave my people, but I cannot ignore those that need us.”} She looked up at Lance, eyes pleading. {“Which do I choose?”}Lance didn’t have an answer.“Pidge, how certain are you that it’s another robeast?” Shiro questioned, unsure of what else to say.“I’m not positive, but according to the message logs, some Galra have spotted a giant robotic mech that fits the description. The logs refer to a similar weapon.”Allura dropped her head again and Shiro wished there was an easy answer. They could stay on this path and wait to hear back but that would mean letting Alteans suffer.{“We shall split up.”} Everyone looked over at Lance as he sat with Allura. {“You will help the Atlas, save people and recruit for the Coalition. As you do this, we will hunt down Haggar’s creations and find more answers. Once we know what is going on, we will call upon you and we can end it together.”}{“You will be alone, you will not have backup.”}“We’ve done it already.” Keith chimed in. “Voltron used to take on missions all the time and just know, we fought off pirates on our own. We can do both, save planets and stop Haggar.”“Keith’s right. Are you okay with that, Allura?” Shiro reached out.After all, the Alteans were the ones piloting, Allura’s people. It had been hard for Shiro to know about Earth and stay away. He couldn’t imagine what it was like for her to know about her people but being unable to help them.{“I will be fine. But you promise, you will send me a message as soon as you hear anything. Understood?”}They all gave a ‘yes’ and Shiro looked over at Pidge.“So, where are we going next?”“The Olkarion system.”

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They made their way to the Olkarion system as quickly as they could. Pidge said the reports came from the area, but they didn’t know if the weapon attacked or if it just flew by. Hunk would rather find Olkarion safe and sound but they couldn’t be sure.“Hailing Olkarion, this is Pidge, Green Paladin of Voltron. Be advised, the Paladins of Voltron are en route.”Hunk was tired of getting dead static in return to their calls, it was starting to get old.“Ryner this is Pidge, please do you copy?”“Team, let’s get there soon rather than later. Form Voltron!”They transformed quickly and then activated their bayards, forming Black’s mega thrusters. They sped through space and they were in the system within moments.“Pidge, anything from Olkarion yet?”“No, but I’ll try and contact them again, Shiro."A ping came from the radar and he watched something large enter the system. "Guys! We got incoming! Something big is headed our way at an incredible speed!”{“Galra cruiser? Some type of weapon?”}“Is it the robeast?” Keith asked, as if they could tell what was coming from the radar.“Shields up!”Red and Green activated their bayards, forming the shield and sword while they waited on a visual for what was coming their way.A dark creature came into sight and Hunk zoomed in to get a better view.“Oh hey! I know what that thing is!”“Oh, now you do, do you Hunk? And you couldn’t remember what a Weblum was while I was in the middle of a life threa-”“Stow it, Keith, argue with him later. It’s coming this way!” Shiro shouted.Hunk pushed on Yellow, working with Blue to get Voltron out of the way for the Weblum as it opened its mouth. The blast shot past them and into space.{“Should we go on the offensive?”}“No!” Hunk shouted, realizing that he and Keith were the only ones who even knew what a Weblum was. “They may be kinda dangerous, but they're essential for the universe. They’re like giant space bees. Keith and I learned about them from a video Coran made. There was some rule like, if you don’t want to be killed, stay away from its gills?”“No, Hunk, that, that wasn’t the rhyme. It’s if you don’t want to be dead, avoid its head.”“Guys, let’s just not do this. Pidge, where is the Weblum going?” Shiro asked.“I think it’s going toward, Olkarion.”“Then we better get there first. Thrusters!”Voltron jumped forward, racing the Weblum. Hunk urged Yellow to go as fast as possible, the Weblum wasn’t a good sign.It ate dead planets and no one on Olkarion was responding.Voltron broke apart once they reached the planet but this time, Olkarion was shades of gray. They broke through the clouds and found a plant void of any signs of life.Pidge took the hit hard though Hunk wasn’t doing much better. They knelt for a while, no one talking, no one moving.Hunk wondered when this happened. If Haggar’s Komar attacked before Earth, then there was nothing they could have done for the people. But if she attacked after, while they were in space, when they could have helped, that would have been worse.Hunk couldn’t work with the weight of knowing that they could have saved Olkarion.Instead, he focused on Pidge, trying to comfort them in whatever way he could. Lance came over as well, Shiro and then Keith joined for a moment of silence.Eventually, Shiro broke the heavy quiet. “I know this is a, difficult, moment but we need to get to work. That Weblum thing is headed here right now, so time is short. Our top priority is search and rescue. If there are survivors, we need to find them, and we need to find out what happened here.”“Shiro, we know what happened. Haggar.” Keith growled out the name.“Then, let’s confirm it.”This time they didn’t split up, which Hunk was grateful for. They kept within reach of each other as they dug through the rubble, straining to hear someone breathing or calling out for help. After clearing the city, they went back to the Lions, scanning the woods and fields of the planet.All they found were dead trees and rubble.Hunk wasn’t sure if he should be happy or not that they hadn’t found any remains of the Olkari. There were no bodies, no signs that anyone used to live here.Instead of thinking about what happened to them, Hunk focused on the idea that they all got away and were living on another planet somewhere.With the forest cleared, Hunk found Pidge again, staring at a clearing. Pidge was silent still, reaching up to a leaf that was left hanging. It broke upon their touch, dust flying away into the air.Keith spoke through the comms with an update. “Shiro, I found your proof. We’ve got a creator.”{“The physical wreckage and destruction patterns are just like those on Earth as well. It seems the Quintessence was siphoned away from Olkarion.”}“Same findings for Pidge and I.” Hunk spoke for the two of them. “We did some readings, and we picked up trace elements of Psyferite. That’s the same metal the Komar on Earth was made from.”“Why? Why did it attack Olkarion in the first place?” Pidge asked.“I don’t know. Maybe because it was a central part of the Coalition, or maybe there’s something more to it but there’s no way to confirm anything. I’m sorry Pidge. Finish your rounds and then come back to the city.” Shiro ordered and Pidge stalked away without another word.Hunk followed, unsure of Pidge’s mental state.“Pidge?”They kept walking, head bent down to the ground.“Talk to me, please, Pidge.”They stopped suddenly and Hunk tried to get Pidge to meet his eyes.“Pidge?”They looked up finally, staring past Hunk and at the dead tree standing in the middle of the field.“You recognize this, Hunk? This is where Ryner taught us how to bond with the forest. I didn’t have friends, not even at the Garrison. It took me forever to open up to you but Ryner, she understood me. She helped me connect when I thought I never could. She was my friend and now, now she’s. She’s. Hunk, it hurts.”Pidge met his eyes, hands clenched over their heart and it was like they were begging Hunk to take away their pain. Hunk enveloped them, shedding his own tears as Pidge’s sobs echoed.It had taken him forever to get to know Pidge, they were a stone heart under lock and key. Hunk had chipped as much as he could and even then, Pidge didn’t let anyone in. They didn’t even talk about Sam and Matt when Voltron was first formed.Slowly Pidge let them in and it was a great thing to witness. But when one has an open heart, it also means they are open to pain as well.Hunk wished Pidge didn’t have to go through this, but there was nothing he could do to change this outcome.Pidge suddenly stopped and started looking around. “Did you hear that?”“What do you mean? Pidge, are you alright?”Hunk finally caught their eye, and their brown eyes were wide. “You didn’t see them?”“See who?”“The forest was back to life and there were two Olkari. They, they were playing.” Pidge stood up, walking forward as if there was someone else in the woods.Hunk stood with them, unsure of what was going on with them. On Earth, before this, he would have thought that Pidge was going crazy from grief, but he’d seen stranger things out here. He thought back to the first time they came here, how quickly Pidge adapted and flourished under Ryner’s guidance.Maybe there was something more they could do here than just searching for survivors.“I-I didn't see anything. But didn’t Ryner use to say that the forest was alive? Maybe it’s trying to show you something.”They turned; arms crossed. “How am I supposed to do that?”Hunk shrugged his shoulders. “Who knows, Allura would probably have some fancy words to say. But I think, Ryner was right. Life is all around us and is never really gone. Maybe you can tap in, hack into the life of these trees like you do a computer.”Pidge moved away from him and settled down on the floor. Hunk summoned his bayard and stood to the side, keeping watch as Pidge connected with Olkarion.And when they stood, eyes seeing something Hunk couldn’t, he followed. He couldn’t keep Pidge from being hurt, he couldn’t do that with anyone. But he could keep them safe physically as they worked through this.

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The hard part about letting people into your heart was that it raised the chances of you getting hurt. Pidge was safe when they were isolated. No one could hurt them but they were alone.They were forced to open up with Voltron, learning how to rely on others and trust them. Pidge even started to like trusting others, working with Vrek in the Blade, Nyma from the Coalition and of course Beezer.Letting people in meant that it hurt when you lost them. Pidge didn’t think they could lose so much so quickly.Reaching Olkarion was a stab to the heart.Ryner had been the first to teach them to open up. When Pidge wasn’t sure if they could connect with anyone or anything, she showed them how they were all connected through Quintessence.Olkarion was devoid of any life, the surface gray, the trees barren and destroyed buildings covered the ground. Voltron landed and the whole planet was silent except for the wind blowing across the deserted land.The Olkari were gone.Everything was gone.Pidge fell to their knees, hitting the tough ground. Someone came up and they glanced over, teary eyes meeting Hunk’s soft gaze.“They were our allies, our friends. And now, now they-”Hunk knelt with them and the team was silent for a while, just mourning the loss of their friends. War came with a price and Pidge was tired of paying.They scoured the surface, digging around and doing what they could to find anyone. But if this was the Komar, they had no idea if it would even leave bodies for them to bury. The Komar was the strongest thing they’d seen so far, Olkarion didn’t stand a chance.Keith reported in but Pidge listened half-heartedly, looking at the dirt under their feet.None of this made sense, none of it was fair.“Why? Why did it attack Olkarion in the first place?” Pidge asked.“I don’t know. Maybe because it was a central part of the Coalition, or maybe there’s something more to it but there’s no way to confirm anything. I’m sorry Pidge. Finish your rounds and then come back to the city.” Shiro ordered and Pidge stalked away.Pidge hated not having answers, they lived to find explanations for things they didn’t understand. They connected with the Olkari with that desire, and Ryner understood them. She knew what it was like to need to understand, and she gave Pidge different ways to learn.And now Ryner was gone.They stopped, unsure where they were even going. Hunk came back into view, Pidge hadn’t even realized that Hunk was still following them.“Pidge?”They looked up and froze, recognizing the tree before them even though it was dead.“You recognize this, Hunk? This is where Ryner taught us how to bond with the forest. I didn’t have friends, not even at the Garrison. It took me forever to open up to you but Ryner, she understood me. She helped me connect when I thought I never could. She was my friend and now, now she’s. She’s. Hunk, it hurts.”Pidge clutched at their chest and Hunk was hugging them in an instant. Hunk took off their helmet and Pidge let the tears fall. Hunk slowly lowered them to the ground and Pidge’s sobs were the only thing filling the air.None of this was fair. There were innocent people, people who deserved to live and grow. They shouldn’t have died, Pidge wished they hadn’t died.Pidge wished to know what happened and who was to blame.Suddenly, they heard someone laughing but it wasn’t Hunk. It was like, a little girl?“Did you hear that?”Pidge turned to see where it was coming from and as they turned, the area changed around them. The trees gained life, grass grew on the ground and two Olkari children were running around. The taller one was holding up a ball while the younger one was laughing, trying to reach it.And then, it faded away, the laughter echoing as the land died once more.“What do you mean? Pidge, are you alright?”“You didn’t see them?”“See who?”“The forest was back to life and there were two Olkari. They, they were playing.” Pidge kept staring as if they could still see them.“I-I didn't see anything. But didn’t Ryner use to say that the forest was alive? Maybe it’s trying to show you something.”“How am I supposed to do that?”Hunk shrugged his shoulders. “Who knows, Allura would probably have some fancy words to say. But I think, Ryner was right. Life is all around us and is never really gone. Maybe you can tap in, hack into the life of these trees like you do a computer.”Pidge moved away from Hunk, sitting cross-legged on the floor with their hands touching the dirt. They closed their eyes, thinking back to the Olkari girls Pidge had heard earlier.Pidge needed to know, to find out what happened to these people.They needed answers.When Pidge opened their eyes, Olkarion had changed once more, green leaves all around them. The girls were back, the older running past while the younger followed with the ball in her hands. Their laughter filled the air and Pidge smiled, surprised and glad that they were able to connect.They stood, following them as they ran. All three of them stopped when a bright light filled the evening sky and Pidge looked up to see something purple entering the atmosphere.A Komar Mech.Pidge turned and just as quickly, they were alone with Hunk again. Pidge knew how to find out what happened here.“We need to go to the city.” Hunk nodded and then they were flying over the trees.They landed on one of the towers overlooking the crash site. With this, they would be able to see what happened and how the Olkari reacted.The scene shifted and Pidge watched the sky as the mech came closer and closer. Even though they were further away, they still held up their hands to block the wind that was tossed about by the impact. When everything cleared, Pidge watched one of the Olkari move forward first.“Ryner.”The Komar unfolded in the distance and Pidge was unable to do anything as it sunk its blades deep into Olkarion. Purple lines dug into the ground, spreading across the area as Quintessence was pulled into the beast.Pidge jumped down, pushing through the Olkari that were running the opposite way. They searched the ground, jumping high as they tried to find Ryner. Eventually, they found them, surrounded by other guards and officers of Olkarion.|”Get Civilians to evacuation pods and launch them immediately! Have all military personnel report to battle stations. Scramble the mechs for counterattack.”| Several guards left and Pidge jumped down to stand with the two guards that were remaining.|”You two, come with me.”| She spoke to the guards but it felt like she was speaking right to Pidge.Pidge followed, pulled by a string connecting them and Ryner.Pidge was pulled out of the past by their communicator going off and Keith speaking.“Guys, we have a major problem here. Lance released some low-orbit trackers outside of Olkarion on the way in. I think the Welblum just set them off.”{“Blue says we have ten Earth minutes to evacuate. Otherwise, we will be destroyed with what is left of Olkarion.”}“Copy that. Team, to your Lions, we’ve gotta go!” Shiro ordered.“We can’t leave! Shiro, I’m so close to finding out what happened, I can’t leave yet.”“Shiro, maybe we can hold it off, give Pidge more time.”{“Hunk? It is a giant creature that eats planets. What are we to do against...”}Pidge took off their helmet, letting the team work out what they were going to do. Hunk was on their side, he would support them while Pidge dug into the past. The sooner they found out the truth, the sooner they could leave.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Pidge fell back into the past, watching as the pods left the atmosphere, the Komar unmoving as they flew away. Pidge let out a broken laugh, heart soaring as they all left unharmed.The Olkari weren’t done. They were forced from their home and many might have been injured, but they were alive.The ground began to shake and Pidge looked up, watching as the Olkari fired a green laser at the Komar. It pulled its blades out of the ground to block the hit. The laser bounced, hitting the nearby buildings, which explained the present destruction.When the beam stopped firing, the Komar returned the attack, destroying the tower.Pidge stood as Olkari Mechs filled the streets, charging the Komar.|”We need to preserve the information from the communications tower.”| Pidge turned, finding Ryner again. Keep the beast at bay as long as you can.”|Pidge followed, flying with the soldiers that made their way to another tower. Scientists and workers were running around, many of them leaving while two stayed on the console.|”How did we not pick this thing up on our scanners?”| One asked.|”It just appeared!”|“Just like on Earth.” Pidge whispered.|”How could that be? Wait, bring up our scanner logs. Those anomalies we detected recently.”| The second did so, pulling up a green screen and the first leaned over. |”I can’t believe I didn’t see it before. The anomalies are from the warping of space-time.”|The Komar in the distance continued to attack and the tower shook. The mechs were fighting back, but the Olkari didn’t have anything strong enough to actually defeat it.|”This creature came through a wormhole.”| the first one concluded.Ryner suddenly came onto the comms, speaking to the technicians. |”Transfer all data from this facility to a safe location off planet. Then evacuate immediately!”||”Understood. The Coalition must know of this. ”|They continued to work, gathering data and preparing for a transfer. Pidge watched in horror as the Komar stopped and focused on the tower, gathering energy.“Evacuate! Leave!” Pidge shouted, but they couldn’t hear their words.Just after the transfer was completed, the Komar fired and everything went white. Pidge covered their face out of instinct and when they opened their eyes, they were back in the present. They fell to their knees, and Hunk was there in a second.“What’s wrong? What did you see?”“They, they sacrificed everything for the Coalition, dying to save more lives.”“Pidge I-”“Hunk. I know how the Komar is traveling.” Pidge cut him off, they could cry about this later. “They’re using wormholes. Haggar’s able to wormhole now.”“Okay, okay we’ll-”“Pidge! Hunk!” Shiro yelled at them and Pidge could hear it from Hunk’s helmet. “I know you’re working, but you’ve gotta get out of there, now! We weren’t able to slow it down at all.”“I need more time.” Pidge told Hunk, knowing that they were asking for the impossible.He stood, sending one more shining smile. “Shiro, I’m coming to help.”Hunk flew off the building, jumping into Yellow who had been following them. Green was there as well, eyes shining as if saying that she would watch over Pidge now.Pidge nodded at Green and jumped down, landing in the past. They watched as the last pod was prepared, mechs abandoned as they gave up the fight they could never win.|”Hurry! Everyone on board.”| Ryner directed.Before they could do anything, the Komar jumped over them, landing further into the city. Moments later several Cubes were pulled into the sky, hovering as the Komar continued its path of destruction.“It came for the Cubes. Why?” They jumped again, landing in front of Ryner. “Please, can you hear me? Do you know why the beast wanted the Cubes? Talk to me, please!”|”Hurry! Everyone inside!”| She continued to shout, looking right through Pidge.“Ryner! Please, Ryner!” Pidge reached forward and their hands met nothing but air.Instead, Ryner knelt to comfort the girl crying at her side. Even as the city was destroyed and her planet killed, Ryner managed to share a smile.|”Oh, Sar-Lyn, why do you cry.”||”M scared, I don’t wanna leave!”||”You mustn’t cling too tightly to the past, young one. The Olkari have always been able to adapt and move forward. It is our greatest strength, and it will live on in you.”||”B-but our home...”||”The old must give way to the new. It’s the way of the universe. And one day, you’ll understand as you pass responsibilities to the next generation as I pass mine to you. Now, please my Sar-Lyn, go. I must stay to make sure our story is told should someone find this place.”|Pidge watched as they embraced one more time before Sar-Lyn ran onto the craft. Then, the doors closed and Ryner tilted back her head, finally letting the tears fall. The pod flew away and once it was out of sight, Ryner sat on the floor and the ground around her began to glow green. She continued to cry until the Komar turned its eyes to her and then, everything went white.They opened their eyes, back in Green once more. She must have scooped Pidge up from the surface. Pidge held their head as they stood, leaving the jaw and climbing up into the cockpit.Ryner was dead.Well, she could have survived but Pidge doubted it. Ryner had given her life for others to live.Pidge didn’t know how to feel about it. They were angry, and sad, and proud. Ryner was a person Pidge wanted to be like one day.That being said, Pidge felt different. There was something on their chest, something they couldn’t describe. On a whim, Pidge pulled out their bayard, holding it in their hand. Before their eyes it shifted, forming a green and white space pistol.“Shit, that’s pretty sweet.”Pidge laughed, tears falling down their face. It seemed sometimes you didn’t need to fight to change. Pidge had opened their heart to pain, but they welcomed the sweeter memories. After all, wasn’t grief just another expression of love?Grief and Love, all at the same time, twins of the same coin.With that, Green powered up and they flew toward the others, Olkarion destroyed behind them.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Shiro always hoped that missions would go well. Whenever they left the Atlas and he gave Adam’s hand one more squeeze, he kept an optimistic outlook.Maybe he couldn’t accept defeat or the fact that sometimes, nothing goes right.Seeing Olkarion like this, it was hard to keep a positive mindset.He did what he could to motivate the team, having them search for anyone who could have survived the attack. Flying over the broken cities and destroyed forests didn’t help. Shiro and Black scanned the area with the rest of the team, holding onto what hope he had left.Keith had an update first. “Shiro, I found your proof. We’ve got a creator.”{“The physical wreckage and destruction patterns are just like those on Earth as well. It seems the Quintessence was siphoned away from Olkarion.”}“Same findings for Pidge and I.” Hunk said. “We did some readings, and we picked up trace elements of Psyferite. That’s the same metal the Komar on Earth was made from.”“Why? Why did it attack Olkarion in the first place?” Pidge asked, voice full of anger.Shiro hesitated, unsure of what to say. Bad things happened, it was life and it was a part of living. He felt for the Olkari, truly, but in the middle of a war, people died. Rebels and Blades were killed, families torn apart and people disappeared. It wasn’t right, but they couldn’t stop every violent act.Still, he remembered how Pidge glowed with the Olkari, how well Sam and Matt connected as well. This couldn’t be easy, especially when they couldn’t change anything.“I don’t know. Maybe because it was a central part of the Coalition, or maybe there’s something more to it but there’s no way to confirm anything. I’m sorry Pidge. Finish your rounds and then come back to the city.” Shiro ordered.He did one more circle, Black scanning for signs of life with Red while Lance was on foot. He began to hope that they all got away, seeing as there were no signs of blood or bodies left behind. It was better that the Olkari left their home than them all dying here.Shiro met with Red and the two settled in the city where Blue, Yellow and Green were resting. Before Shiro could reach out to the others, Black sent an alarm and Keith spoke.“Guys, we have a major problem here. Lance released some low-orbit trackers outside of Olkarion on the way in. I think the Welblum just set them off.”{“Blue says we have ten Earth minutes to evacuate. Otherwise, we will be destroyed with what is left of Olkarion.”}“Copy that. Team, to your Lions, we’ve gotta go!” Shiro needed to get his people out before more lives were put at risk.“We can’t leave! Shiro, I’m so close to finding out what happened, I can’t leave yet.”Shiro sighed, wishing they could stay here longer.“Shiro, maybe we can hold it off, give Pidge more time.” Hunk suggested, though Lance didn’t seem to agree.{“Hunk? It is a giant creature that eats planets. What are we to do against a creature of that size? We cannot-”}“Listen, Pidge found a way to hack into Olkarion or something. I really don’t know how but they have a connection here. They’re looking into the past right now, so we need to give them more time. Please.”“Alright.” Shiro gave in. “We’ll buy you as much time as we can. Keith, Lance, you’re on me. We’ve got to do something about this Weblum thing.”“Thanks, Shiro. Really.”Shiro opened the private link with Hunk giving him a smile and it looked like Hunk was nearly to tears. “We’re a family, we do what we gotta to watch out for each other. Keep track of them, make sure Pidge doesn’t get themselves hurt. And be quick.”Hunk saluted and he turned off the link, jumping into the air with Red and Blue.“Okay, I’ve got it on scanners, let’s intercept.”It made sense that the Weblum ate planets, it was giant compared to everything else they had seen out here. Voltron was small standing next to it which meant the lions were just specks. But somehow, they had to use three lions to get this thing to stop or even slow down.“We need to get it to divert its course.”{“And how do you plan on doing that, Shiro?”}“I have no idea.”He raced forward, pushing against the worm with all of Black’s strength, but it didn’t seem to affect the Weblum at all. Except for making it angry. It opened its mouth, firing off another yellow laser.“Okay, okay, never mind. Keith, what were the rules with this thing?”“I don’t know! I wasn’t listening to the stupid video and it was forever ago, Shiro.”{“How about this?”} Blue opened her mouth, firing a blast down the worm’s back.It just kept flying as if Olkarion was the only thing that mattered to it. Shiro wanted Pidge to find out what had happened, for their own sake and to learn more about the Komars but they couldn’t hold out forever.“Pidge! Hunk! I know you’re working, but you’ve gotta get out of there, now! We weren’t able to slow it down at all.”There was a pause before Hunk answered. “Shiro, I’m coming to help.”They continued firing upon the worm, and Shiro soon didn’t even worry about hurting it. The blasts did nothing, not even leaving marks on the scales. They tried flying in front of its eyes, trying to be noticed but nothing happened.Blue flew in front of it again but only succeeded in getting it to fire again. He barely missed the shot while Keith rolled his eyes.{“Too close! Keith, how did you guys beat this thing the first time?”}“We didn’t! We were there to collect scaultrite, not distract it.”Hunk finally joined them and Shiro was glad to see Yellow.“Hunk, we still haven’t figured out a way to stop it and Keith apparently didn’t pay attention last time.”“Shiro!”“Have you guys called Coran?”There was an awkward silence and Shiro realized they hadn’t even considered that option.“Okay. So, I’m gonna call Coran. Coran, come in.”Coran answered and Shiro stopped firing to listen in.{“Hunk my boy! Hello there, how are-”}“Sorry, but we need to stop a Weblum from eating a planet, like, right now! You know how to do that?”{“Oh, well, it has definitely been a while but in my younger quintants, my cohorts and I would have a little Weblum fun.”}“Coran, we’re kinda in a rush here!” Shiro urged him to go faster.{“Right! Alright, if I remember correctly, all you need to do...on the trilo-murarth which you will find under its dorsal...”}“Oh, no! Not again!”“Hunk, what’s going on?” The video kept skipping, missing several of Coran’s words.“Our connection is breaking up! One sec, Shiro, I’m trying to fix it!”{“...resulting in face boils, a running nose...and cosmic light radiation poisoning. And if you do not do this, you will expand to twice your size and pop like a balvax. So-”}The video suddenly stopped an no one said anything for a moment before Hunk let out a groan. “Well, I don’t know why I expected anything different.”{“Hunk, watch out!”}Shiro looked up to see the Weblum with its mouth open to fire as Yellow floated in the way. Blue came out of nowhere and Lance fired the sonic cannon. It closed its mouth and thankfully, stopped preparing to fire.“Lance! Oh, thank you, thank you! I would have been-”{“Fight is not over yet!”} Lance fired again as the Weblum prepared another attack.“Pidge! Pidge, are you there!” Shiro reached out, worried when there wasn’t a response. “Listen, we can’t hold this thing off any longer, I’m sorry, but your time’s up. You have to get off the surface, now!”There was still nothing and Shiro watched in horror as the Weblum fired, the blast hitting Olkarion. Cracks formed and orange overtook their screens as the planet was broken into smaller pieces. Thankfully, Black alerted him to say Green had finally joined them.They watched as Olkarion fragmented, the mountains falling apart, and the forest separated into sections. No one would have lived on Olkarion again, the Komar had made sure of that. Still, it hurt to watch the planet crumble.The Weblum flew toward it, eating the pieces of the planet and the circle of life was continued.Shiro reached out, opening a video with Pidge. “Hey, I'm so sorry.”He didn’t ask if they were okay because, of course, they weren’t. There was nothing they could have done and now, all they could do was move forward. Maybe, just maybe, they could stop another planet from going through these same horrors.“I wish we could’ve done more. You know, for them.” Hunk commented.{“Pidge, we are here for you, when you are ready.”}“We’re a team and I really don’t think you can avoid Lance or Hunk comforting you. It's like a death sentence.”Pidge took off their helmet with a snort and they wiped their face. “Yeah, I know, Keith. Thanks, really. I, uh, appreciate it. But, this isn’t the end of the Olkari. They escaped, they’re somewhere out there, I know they are. Anyway, we need to contact the Atlas, Shiro.”“Why, what’s up?”“Because the Olkari weren’t done teaching us a few things. I know how to track the Komar.”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Pidge worked while they flew toward where the Atlas was last reported to be. Once they were close enough, Shiro called them for a debriefing.Allura was on comms moments later and Lance was happy to hear her voice again. They’d been gone from the Atlas for too long.“We are all here, go ahead Shiro.”“Atlas, we’ve managed to track down a Komar Mech.”“You found one!” Coran shouted.“Where is it? Did you engage? Was there an Altean?”“We, we were too late, Allura. Pidge was able to connect, it’s how we know this happened, but the attack happened a while ago. A Komar attacked the Olkari and stole the remains of the weaponized Cube built by the Empire.”“Is, is Olkarion okay?”“No, I’m sorry Coran, but Olkarion is gone.”“Oh.”Lance wished they were on the Atlas to share this news. Coran and Allura deserved to know, but Lance couldn’t comfort them with space between them.“It’s a devastating loss but it seems like most survived, leaving the planet. The good news is that we were able to learn some vital information. We learned from the Olkari that the Komars have been traveling via wormhole which leaves behind unique energy signatures.“Pidge created a program that can identify those signatures and pinpoint their exact locations. We’re sending over the readings from Pidge’s program now.” The transmission was sent, and Lance pulled it up as well, surprised by the sheer amount of reports.{“Are you telling us these are all Komars?”} Coran asked.“Well, I’m not positive, but they could be.” Pidge answered.“There’s more, Allura. After studying the map, we noticed the signatures all radiate from a single point: Oriande.”A gasp was heard and Lance bent his head, slumping in his chair.Oriande was talked about in stories, a sacred land that was believed to be the Altean homeland before they explored space. It had stung when he hadn’t been chosen all those quintants ago, but he understood. No one went to Oriande, Allura going was special enough.Lance couldn’t understand how Haggar, the witch who had killed whole planets, people and the Paladins of old, could be chosen.{“How? I thought, she should not be there, she cannot be worthy. I will not believe that she would be allowed there.”}{“We understand, Lura, but there is much we do not know. How she found Oriande, how she made it past the Guardian, but we do know she is sending the Komars. This is good, this is the proof we need to go after her.”}So, they made a plan to meet up, needing to talk about what they were going to do next.They continued flying, and Lance’s mind was full of too many things.The number of signatures was frightening. Yes, some of them could be something else, but every Komar meant an Altean pilot. An Altean that was forced into this or convinced by Haggar that this was right. An Altean who had family, friends, and a life worth living.An Altean they could end up not being able to save.Lance wished they could go to Oriande right away, end Haggar and save the people before it was too late.Lance hoped they could end this sooner rather than later. He was sick of chasing, he was ready to fight.“Uh guys? I just got a strange message.” Pidge suddenly reported. “It was a distress signal for like, two ticks, before it vanished.”“Maybe someone sent it as an accident?”{“Keith, ma amor, have you ever accidentally pressed the distress signal in Red?”}“...no...”{“Even so, we are supposed to meet with Atlas, we do not have time to see if the distress is real or not.”}“But Lance, what if they are? There could be people out there that desperately need us and that was the only chance they had to reach out.” Hunk responded.“Yeah, and there are Komars out there, killing whole planets. I agree with the Prince, we should go to the nebula and we can come back later.”“What if this is a Komar, Keith? What if people are being killed right now?”Lance sighed, even he was being convinced they should stop. Hunk was too powerful for his own good when he wanted to.“Pidge, can you track the signal even though it’s not there anymore?” Shiro asked.“Yeah, I tracked it while I had it, the signal is coming from a planet in the next system, Aladir.”“Can you get an image on the planet?”“Scanner can reach them in a few ticks, once we enter the system.”Lance hooked his scanners with Pidge’s so Blue would see whatever Green did and of course, they found Galra Cruisers hiding behind the orange planet. Of course, they would find a mission once they knew exactly where Haggar was hiding.“Look, we don’t have to stop here, we can come back. But, I think that we should. Voltron is here to help everyone. Lance, what’s your vote?”Really, he voted to go to Oriande and kick Haggar’s snarflaf, but Shiro had a point.{“I will send word to Allura that we will be late. But, let us do this mission quickly, please. I do not wish to linger.”} Lance gave in and smiled as Hunk cheered.“Don’t you worry, Lance! It’ll be just a little pit stop, quicker than going to a rest stop.”He really was too good for this world.They stopped at another planet, leaving the other lions and filing into Green. With her cloaking, they would be able to reach the surface without getting into a fight. Free the people as quickly as possible, that was the mission.The surface was quite soft and with the lower gravity, it felt like every step was a jump. Green dug her claws into the ground to stay down, cloaking herself from the Galra.The planet was silent, not even the wind could be heard. Lance looked around, bayard in hand at the empty meadows and fields.“I hate to say it, but I think the planet is in distress.” Keith decided to comment.“Pidge, scan for life, everyone else, keep an eye out. Stick with the trees.”They followed Shiro’s orders, hiding behind bright green trees while watching the area. Green followed behind, the Lion surprisingly silent though Lance could see the small marks left behind. Through his scope, Lance could see a town across the field, but there was no smoke coming from the houses. He couldn’t see any life, but there was no damage to the land either.“I’ve found several groups, cluster together around some intense heat signatures. There’s also a mine on the other side of the planet. The heat signatures line around the mine, like protection or something. Though, I don’t know why the people would be there and not working.”Hunk joined Pidge, looking at the readings. “Well, what if the heat signatures were for a weapon or something. No one would attack if there were innocents around the base of it.”Oh.Hunk looked up as if just realizing his own words and Lance pushed Oriande from his mind. They would really have to help these people, without letting the Galra know.“The closest one is just past this town, and I don’t see anything between us and it. We could get a better look at the situation.”“Sounds good, Pidge. Stay low and quiet.”Shiro led the team, crossing the meadow and walking through the town. Lance kept his blaster out, waiting for something to pop out to attack them. They stayed in formation, watching each other's backs as they traveled.Shiro stopped them with his hand and they all joined him, looking down the hill.Sure enough, there was a large purple cannon built in Galra fashion. Around the base were several natives, brightly colored Dalads standing out from the weapon. Surprisingly, there were only two Galra patrolling and Lance wondered how long this had been going on. Not a single Dalad was running, even though there were no chains around any of them.“Here’s the plan. In two teams, we’ll take out each cannon. We’ll have to do it quickly so they can’t send reinforcements. Pidge, I need you to make sure no signals get sent out. I’ll go with Hunk, Keith, you go with Lance. Keep your helmets and Communicators on.”Shiro and Hunk ran away moments later, making their way to the second cannon while Pidge stayed behind. Lance hesitated, only leaving once Pidge gave a salute gesture.It was like at the beginning of the war. Keith would smirk at him before jumping forward, knocking one Galra out while Lance stunned the other. They danced around each other, sneaking along and freeing the people.The Dalads were full of joy afterward, the fins on their heads dancing. They were a bright people, one-eyed, small and peaceful. Keith couldn’t speak the language so Lance was left trying to tell them to stay quiet and to not leave the cannon yet even though it was disabled.After visiting the third cannon, he shared a look with Keith, both of them grinning wildly.Lance would be willing to do this forever and with Keith at his side, it was easy to stay in the present and forget about Haggar for a moment.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Pidge counted, saying that there were twenty-four cannons surrounding the whole mine. Obviously the Empire had been here for a while, the mine was deep and the soldiers around the cannon were woefully unprepared.It was almost too easy for Keith.It was like being a Blade again, running through shadows and silently killing. Though, they weren’t killing anymore, Shiro’s orders. Lance was stunning with his blaster while Keith knocked them out. Lance’s stun would keep them out for an hour or so, which meant they didn’t have time to mess up.Surprisingly, they hadn’t messed up yet.Keith waited in the bushes for the Galra to finish going around the circle. This time, Lance took them both out, shocking them and their bodies hit the floor. The natives, Lance called them Dalads, slowly stood up, unsure of what to do.|“Listen, stay here, stay quiet. After we are done, can go, live.”| Lance repeated the phrase which seemed to work.The Dalad all stayed still, the fins on their head waving a little and there were a few children that smiled and waved.“Shiro, Keith and Lance here. We just finished with number eight.”“Great, Hunk and I are near nine for us.”“Shit, they’re beating us.” Keith groaned.{“Well, that cannot do. Come, we can win this.”} Lance smiled before dashing toward the next target.Keith followed after him seconds later. Shiro had them reporting in for each Cannon they overtook which ended up creating a race. Shiro didn’t know and most likely wouldn’t encourage it if he knew, but Keith was a competitive bitch, and he knew it.He never lost, no matter if it was a game, a mission or something silly like stealing cannons back from the broken Galra Empire.“Keith, he’s already taken the ninth cannon.” Pidge decided to update.“Fuck off, we’re near our ninth.”“Sure. And when he finishes his tenth, you’ll be near your tenth. I guess you’ll always be one behind, huh?”Keith growled, pushing faster and flying past Lance.“You know I can hear you, right? Keith, this really isn’t a race.” Shiro tried to say.“Saying that just makes it more of a race, Shiro, and I will beat you. Hurry up, Lance!”They took the next one even faster, Keith knocked them out and Lance shot them just in case to keep them down, and then they were racing toward the next one.“Shiro, got the ninth!”Except, this time there wasn’t a response.He stopped running and Lance joined him, out of breath and glaring.{“I. Am. Sprinter. Not made, for long term, running you snarflaf.”}“He’s not responding. Hunk, Shiro! Copy! Shiro? Hunk?”Lance stood up at that, calling for Hunk. {“Hunk, report in please. Hunk?”}There was a pause before he could be heard over comms.“Garrett here, reporting in. Don’t worry, they’ve got everything under control. The Natives are fine.”Keith shared a look with Lance before pulling up the map that had their locations. They were near one of the hot spots but it looked like Shiro wasn’t moving.After a mission where they’d been kidnapped one too many times, they came up with code to alert others without messing things up. Should they use their last name, it was a sign that someone was forcing them to say these words or they were being held at gunpoint.Shiro wasn’t responding either and Keith wasn’t liking this mission anymore.“Kogane checking in. Are you sure everything's under control? Is there anything we can do to help?”Another pause, most likely Hunk was being told what to say.“Yes, everything’s under control, nothing you guys can do. We’re good to leave.”“Understood. We’ll get the Lions prepped for takeoff. Report back when you finish your mission, Garrett.”“Copy that, Kogane.”Keith groaned, noting how far away they were. They had split up, Shiro and Hunk going right while he went left with Lance. They were on the other side of the mine and all of these cannons were active. They couldn’t fly in here with the Lions or destroy them.Keith had stepped away from being a leader for a reason, so he wouldn’t have to deal with situations like this.{“Hunk said he would report in, which means we have time to finish our part of the mission. We can disable the cannons and reach them, no reason to fret, amor.”}“I know, I just don’t like this. We’re too spread out like this, Pidge all on their own while something’s going on with Hunk and Shiro. I’d really rather we not split up anymore.”{“We can discuss this later, come, we must finish this. Race to the next one?”}Instead of answering, Keith dashed away, able to give a slight smile at Lance’s shout.Thankfully, they were able to finish the rest of their cannons without a problem, though the hour was ticking away. The soldiers wouldn’t be able to work the cannons, Keith made sure of that when he dug his sword into the engine works. Still, they could round up and attack or figure out another way to call for aid. Once the cannons were taken care of, Voltron could destroy the cruisers and everything would be fine.Everything would be fine.They reached the twelfth one which should have been Shiro’s and stopped. There were three Galra now, and all of them were ready with their weapons out. One of them was taller, a massive cannon in his arms as he searched the area.They couldn’t just shoot either, the Galra kept ducking down near the Dalads, using them as live shields. They needed to get the Galra away from the people, and turn the fight into their favor.“Listen, I’m going to shoot up into the air and get them over here. That way, we won’t have to deal with shooting around the Dalads.”Lance nodded and they both hid in the bushes. Keith shot over the cannon, drawing all the Galra’s attention. Two of them stalked over, a smaller one that quickly scrambled toward them and the big one with the cannon.The smaller one reached them first and Lance had no choice but to stun. The big one stopped, seeing the flash of light. Keith cursed under his breath, shifting his bayard to the gun version. The big jumped, flying out of view and Keith looked up to see a gun pointed right at him.Lance smacked into him, forcing them to both roll out of the way. Keith groaned as his ribs complained, looking up just in time to see Lance’s weapon shift into a sword. Lance stood as if he wasn’t hurt and slashed out, cutting through the gun and the Galra’s body.Fuck, his partner was so hot.Lance turned, flipping his blade to clean it before shifting it back into a blaster.{“You plan on laying there the whole time while I save the mission or shall you join me?”} He asked with a smirk.Keith stood, pulled by a magical force over to Lance. He reached for Lance’s helmet but the Altean stopped him, though Lance was smiling.{“You will not kiss me in the middle of the mission, you know we get too distracted. We shall finish this later, Socii.”}Keith rolled his eyes but didn’t fight. They took care of the cannon and Galra quickly, moving on to the next. With that one done, the only cannon left was the one where Hunk and Shiro were being held hostage.“Keith, what’s the plan?” Pidge said, no doubt following them with their scanners.“I don’t know. Hunk was forced to respond so he’s being held and Shiro hasn’t moved either. Still, we can’t bring in Voltron, the Lion’s will be noticed by the fleet over the planet. We’ll have to take the cannon without getting Hunk killed.”{“We can call for our Lions with the cannon disabled, they could take care of the cruisers on their own.”}“I agree with Lance. Green's ready.”Keith paused, unsure if it was possible. Sure, their relationship with the Lions had changed, the Lions now often moved on their own, acting on their own wills. But they’d never fought a battle without a Paladin helping pilot.“We’ll see. For now, we take care of Hunk and then we can call the Lions. If anything, Green can distract the Cruisers while the other Lions find us. Pidge, keep the signals jammed, I’ve got a crazy plan.”Pidge sighed, but didn’t oppose him verbally. Keith turned to face Lance with a smirk before holstering his Bayard.Hopefully, he wouldn’t get him, and his partner killed.He still had to brag over Shiro that he’d won.

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Hunk wasn’t so worried about splitting up here. Aladir was a wonderful planet with soft ground, bright green grass and light yellow sky. Honestly, it was nice being on a planet that didn’t look like a warzone.It seems the Warlord took advantage of the native’s gentle personality. After they were freed, the natives were full of happy words and fluttering fins, they seemed fine even as Shiro jumped in and knocked out a Galra soldier.Hunk would rather spend more time here, it was as if the war hadn’t touched this planet. If one ignored the trench being dug out by prisoners, of course. That, that wasn’t a great thing. Still, this mission felt different, easier.They ran to the next cannon, the one part of the mission Hunk didn’t really like, and quickly took care of it. Shiro knocked one out while Hunk stunned the other, making sure they were tied up and the cannon destroyed afterward. The people began to thank them and then they were moving toward the next one.“Shiro, Keith and Lance here. We just finished with number eight.”“Great, Hunk and I are near nine for us.”“Shit, they’re beating us.” Keith groaned and Hunk wasn’t sure if they were supposed to hear that.Hunk would rather this not be a race, stress made his mind go fuzzy and he couldn’t think clearly. He could jump into battle now and not think too much about it, but timers still scared the crap out of him. Hunk blames the video games of his youth.Shiro though, Shiro had a smile and Hunk was all for the race for that reason. Everyone noticed the space between the two of them and if he was being honest, Hunk got nervous around Shiro as well.It wasn’t like they could just erase what Kuron had done, and Hunk hadn’t even had to fight the clone. Keith would stand in the back of the group, walking away when Shiro patted them or gave hugs. They were getting better and this race was as if they were back at the beginning again.Five kids, running around space with magical lions, fighting because it was cool. Keith was being snarky, Lance was full of laughter, Pidge was being sarcastic, Shiro was their fearless leader and Hunk was there to enjoy it all.Shiro took the ninth cannon on his own, knocking them both out while Hunk shot through the cannon, destroying it enough that it wouldn’t be fixed for a long while. Moments later, Pidge was on the comms, bothering Keith again.“Keith, he’s already taken the ninth cannon.”“Fuck off, we’re near our ninth.”Shiro shook his head, but didn’t comment on the language like he always does.“Sure. And when he finishes his tenth, you’ll be near your tenth. I guess you’ll always be one behind, huh?”“You know I can hear you, right? Keith, this really isn’t a race.” Shiro tried to say.“Saying that just makes it more of a race, Shiro, and I will beat you. Hurry up, Lance!”They cut off and Hunk refocused as they neared the tenth cannon.They hadn’t seen the third Galra coming from the side until he knocked Shiro out with the butt of his gun. Hunk threw up his hands out of instinct, hoping the Galra wouldn’t be threatened by his softer shape.The Galra sneered but didn’t fire, gesturing for him to walk. Hunk obeyed, letting himself be taken toward the cannon where the two Galra stood waiting. The third dragged Shiro along, dropping him with the natives.[“Found these two in the trees, I didn’t see any other life forms.”][“Voltron.”] The first one spat. [“Report to Quartermaster Janka, we’ve found the Paladins.”]The second went over to the console of the cannon and Keith started to shout over comms. Hunk grimaced as the shouting got loud enough for the Galra to hear. The first stalked over, ripping off his helmet.[“There are others on the planet, Vhul, go find them. Ryke, what does the Quartermaster say?”][“I can’t get through, something is jamming our signals.”]The first gave Hunk another glare as if it was his fault. Pidge was blocking the signals, not him.[“Don’t worry, Vhul will kill them and our signals will go through.”][“Listen,”] The Galra raised a brow at him speaking the same language. [“My team is going to find me if I don’t tell them I’m fine. Just let me respond, okay?”]The Galra moved quickly, standing behind him with an arm around Hunk’s neck, holding a blade to his very soft and cuttable skin. His helmet was held near enough for him to talk, though the threat of ending his life was obvious.[“Respond, but say one wrong word and it will be your last.”]Hunk swallowed, feeling the blade pushing hard enough to make him bleed a little.“Garett here, reporting in. Don’t worry, they’ve got everything under control. The Natives are fine.”He closed his eyes, hoping that Keith and Lance remembered the code enough to finish the mission.“Kogane checking in. Are you sure everything's under control? Is there anything we can do to help?”[“Translate!”][“He asks if everything is under control and how they can help.”][“Tell them to leave, we will destroy the Paladins and Voltron all at once.”]“Yes, everything’s under control, nothing you guys can do. We’re good to leave.”“Understood. We’ll get the Lions prepped for takeoff. Report back when you finish your mission, Garrett.”“Copy that, Kogane.”The Galra tightened the knife once again. [“Well, what did they say?”][“They, they’ll leave. They’re going back to the Lions, I promise, they’re leaving.”][“I guess we’ll see. Until Vhul reports in, you’re going to stay right here. Ryke, do what you can to break through the jamming.”]So, they stood there awkwardly, the taller Galra looming over him while Hunk felt blood slip down into the suit. It really wasn’t a comfortable feeling.Minutes passed with Ryke saying they still couldn't go through and Vhul not reporting in. The Galra behind him got more and more agitated the longer time went on. Hunk was hoping this meant that Keith and Lance had taken care of him and the rest of the cannons.[“Vhul! Report in you wimplehead!”]Still nothing.The Galra suddenly went still and Hunk looked up to see Keith and Lance strolling in, holding their hands up high.What kind of plan was this? Shiro was out, Pidge was nowhere near and Hunk was being held at knifepoint! Keith was supposed to come in swinging, destroying the cannon and taking care of everything![“We’d like our friend back, if you don’t mind.”][“And I’d like to pass you over to my Commander, but I think my desire will be the only one fulfilled. Ryke, handcuff them.”]Hunk looked over, watching as Shiro sent a wink before closing his eyes again.Everything happened in slow motion.Ryke handcuffed Keith first, no doubt thinking he was the scarier Paladin but Lance came out of nowhere, stunning him with his bayard.Hunk felt his bayard form in his hand as the Galra tightened his grip. It shifted to form something sharp and Hunk didn’t even think before stabbing the Galra near his groin.Shiro then fired, the blast from his bayard tearing through the cannon and the communications console. The Galra holding him fell back, thankfully dropping the knife and Hunk was able to breathe again.Keith ran forward, holding his sword over the Galra while Lance pulled Hunk upright. Lance cringed, no doubt at the amount his neck was bleeding, and pulled out a bandage from their survival kits. Holding it to his neck, Lance shook his head.{“You scared us, you and Shiro. You are not to do that again, understood?”}“Yes, Ma.”Lance clicked his tongue and Hunk smiled.Shiro and Keith talked for a while over the now-stunned Galra before joining them. Lance stepped back, only after Hunk agreed to hold the bandage to his own wound.Hey, maybe he’d get a cool scar like the rest of them. Pidge had one on their shin from a Galra Outpost where everything went wrong, Allura had scars on her arms from when Gnov’s crystal blew up on her, Lance had one through his eyebrow, Keith had the one on his cheek and of course, Shiro’s famous scar on his nose.Hunk continued to smile, strangely happy to join the gang. Of course, they all had wounds, blaster grazes, slashes and the sort, but scars were something different.They meant you survived and Hunk was actually glad to have a mark that said that he fought, that they won, and that he had survived all of this.“Pidge, we’re all good here. We’re gonna call our Lions, can you and Green distract them for us?”“Absolutely, Shiro, Green’s been ready for a while now.”Instead of preparing to fight, Shiro had them sit in a circle, leaving a space for Pidge. Like when they had been captured on Gnov’s ship, they called for the Lions.Melding with Yellow had changed their relationship. Hunk had always had him near, he could feel Yellow standing on the other side of the wall. Now though, it was like Yellow was right with him, under his skin and in his head.Hunk didn’t even need to ask.Yellow was there in an instant and Hunk fell into the bond, looking through Yellow’s eyes. From there, he followed Black into battle, easily destroying the handful of ships that had been in orbit over the planet.While it was easy to work like it, it was exhausting and they couldn’t do it often or for long amounts of time. By the time they finished, Hunk was ready for a nap, or three.The Lions joined them and Pidge jumped out of Green when she landed. They both walked forward, Green shaking her shoulders before she sat.“Well, wasn’t that a fun little potty break?” Pidge said, staring at the new mark on Hunk’s neck.“Yeah, yeah, so this took longer than planned, but hey, we finished it, right?”Shiro checked in with the Atlas, saying they would be there soon while Lance went over to the natives to make sure they were all safe. Sentries were guarding the mine and after Pidge sent a shutdown signal, the natives were good to go.Unconscious Galra loaded up in the cargo bay of Black, they were back on the road to meet with Atlas and yet another planet was freed.

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The time had come for her to be reunited with her son. She would do the impossible and bring him back to her, no matter the cost.With the Komars planted across the universe, she gathered the Alteans at the base of the pyramid. Standing before them, she addressed the soldiers of the new Empire.{“For eons our people have suffered, cast out from our home, driven from planet to planet by other people. We have sacrificed much, you have sacrificed all. But my Great Son Lotor, gave more than any of us. He gave his life to bring you peace, dying so you all could live. It is time to avenge his death by making the universe pay.”}{“What has the universe done for you? Has anyone helped you? Has anyone given you shelter? No! Now they will pay for ignoring you, make Voltron pay for killing our Great Leader Lotor, and make everyone pay for mistreating us! Now, Lotor’s great wish will be fulfilled, a greater Empire of the Galra and Altean people, and the end for anyone that dares oppose us is near. Let us begin!”}The people cheered down below and Hanerva moved to the podium, connecting with her Komars that were spread across the universe. In unison, their shields were dropped and they sunk their blades into the ground.With the process started, she turned to the lucky few chosen to pilot the Komars. {“May Lotor’s brilliant light guide you.”}They left soon after, launching to protect Oriande from whatever might come to attack them. Hanerva needed time to complete her work, time that the Alteans would freely give her.Hanerva stood on the wormhole platform, looking down on the Alteans as she opened the wormholes. There were several taking the Komars out of Oriande, placing them in a way that would make sure she would get her energy and no one would interfere. The Komars launched, the Alteans stood ready and the Olkari Cubes were in place.It was time to bring her son back to life, she would bend time and space to her will.

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She’d been anxious for what felt like movements. All she could do was focus on the missions at hand, on the crew, on the bigger picture.Atlas had a mission to the universe and that was what she was going to do. They went to planet after planet, rescuing people and liberating them. She worked with Warlords and Commanders, teaching them how to lead without using the people.Finally, Shiro was back on comms, saying they were near the rendezvous point. Allura pushed her anxieties aside, ordering for the hangar bays to be opened for the Lions of Voltron.She ran down to meet them, needing to know what had happened and why they had taken so long.{“Lance!”}He turned with a grin, smiling at her before pulling her into a hug.{“Oh, Lura! My quintants are ever so brighter with you now in my sight.”}{“Please, say your sweet words to Keith, not me brother. Is it too much to ask for a debrief now?”}Shiro came up and shook his head. “Hunk needs medical care and it’s already close to evening. Let’s give the crew a night, it would do them good to sleep in a bed again with their families. Don’t worry, we’ll have a meeting bright and early tomorrow, Allura.”{“I understand, is Hunk alright?”}Pidge and Hunk joined them, Hunk with a bandage on his neck but a grin on his face. “Don’t worry, I’m fine but I could really use a home-cooked meal.”“I’ve gottcha dude, let’s go raid the kitchens and piss off Sal.”So, they left and spent the night with their families, but Allura couldn’t sleep.She’d known that Haggar was an Altean since the beginning, with the fight that took Zarkon and Shiro. She saw those marks, she knew Zarkon had an Altean wife and Lotor was part Altean, and yet, she didn’t look at the signs clearly.Allura wouldn’t linger on the past, but it made her question. How could an Altean send her own people to die? Honerva was a scientist, one who gave life and saved people. Allura knew of her, she used to be Father’s greatest aid.How did Honerver change so much that she was willing to kill Alteans just to gain more power?Unable to sleep, she left her bed and entered the living room of their quarters. To her surprise, she found someone before the fireplace under several blankets. Allura gently stepped forward, unsure of whether Liah or Ro wanted alone time.Upon a closer look, she recognized the white hair and moved around the couch.{“May I sit?”}Liah jerked up, eyes wide for a moment. There was a hesitation before she nodded and Allura sat down just a bit away from her.She hated it, but their relationship was strained. Allura talked to Lance and it was hard on them seeing her when all they saw was Aria. Allura tried to move past, but she had the same eyes, the same marks, the same look.And yet, Liah was older than the Aria Allura knew. Liah was an adult and Allura had missed so much.She wondered if this was difficult for her niece as well. After all, Liah was alone in the universe with two people who looked like her mother.{“I am sorry I have been so busy. Lance wishes he could spend more time with you as well.”} Allura said softly, unsure of what else to say.{“He does?”}She looked over, surprised to see the startled look on Liah’s face. {“Of course. I know the situation is odd, but you are family.”}She gave a faint smile as she turned down her face.{“You look j-just like her.”} Liah muttered. {“It-it is odd as well, to-to see you and know you are, are my Aunt while Dellra is much older than you. Uh, well, Well, she would be.”}Dellra.Aria had named one of her daughters Dellra, but could that just be coincidence? Aria talked about them, Liah knew she had aunts and uncles. But how much did Aria even remember?{“What is she like? Is she happy?”}Liah hummed. {“I believe she is. Mom and Dad are, are happy together, we had a-a wonderful childhood even with Lotor, being L-Lotor. She, she told us stories, I-I never believed but I loved them.”}{“Oh, yes, I believe she had stories to tell. She was a child when I saw her last, but she loved Lance dearly. Mainly because he acted like we weren’t in a war. They would run around like he was a child as well, doing whatever it took to make her laugh. He still does.”}{“Can, can you tell me more?”} Liah leaned in and Allura scooted closer.{“Of course.”}Liah wasn’t a child, she didn’t need her aunt that way. And yet, they spent the whole night talking, Liah filling in more gaps about the colony while Allura talked all about the happier memories of her youth with Aria. They fell asleep like that eventually, cuddled under the same blanket.The next morning, they gathered in the conference room once more, the team together again. The Paladins sat on one side, the crew on the other while she was at the head of the table, Shiro standing at the front.“We have confirmation that Haggar’s beasts have touched down on Sanook, VeXilum, Siiz, and we continue to receive more transmissions” Shiro said.“This is consistent with the reports I’m receiving as well, Ma’am.” Veronica added on and a map was pulled up, hanging over the table to show the reports.“They’re targeting multiple fronts simultaneously.” Keith pointed out.“Okay, so what do we do?”{“We keep our calm, Hunk. I am all for rushing into battle, but we must plan beforehand. Veronica, keep watch over these planets. Give us real-time updates as they come in.”}“I just got another report from Sanook.” She tapped at her dashboard and a picture hovered over the table, showing Sanook. “The Komars are covered in some type of shield like a particle barrier.”{“They are not attacking the planet?”}“No Ma’am. There are no reports of any attacks yet. They are just, sitting there.”“They won’t for long. Haggar’s planning something, we’ll have to be ready.” Shiro said and Allura agreed.“Ma’am, the planets are reporting activity!” Veronica interrupted in a panicked voice. “The Komars are all moving, they, they’ve started siphoning Quintessence.“We need to engage them all, save as many people as we can. We could split up the Lions.” Shiro suggested.{“Shiro, one Lion could not handle a Komar on their own.”} Lance said back.“No, but it could slow them down, buy us some time. We can keep the Komars distracted while the main force wormholes from target to target.”Allura stood, putting her hands on the table. {“No. We must attack Oriande directly. It is time we stop this at the source and I believe I know what she’s doing. We know Haggar has the ability to create wormholes and that these wormholes are emanating from Oriande. She used a Komar to steal the Olkari Cubes, which can mimic and intensify energy at a distance. These Komars are essentially armed with Komars, able to drain and transmit massive amounts of Quintessence.{“She is going to concentrate energy from across the universe to Oriande. She is making a Komar magnitudes larger than anything we have ever seen, something that could drain the Quintessence from an entire galaxy. She no longer wants to fight us, she will kill everything from Oriande.”}Several people gasped, horror on their faces as they realized that if Haggar wasn’t stopped, she’d destroy everything.{“We have no choice, we must stop her and we must do so now. She is gathering energy for something and I do not wish to see what she will do with it. The only way to stop her is by going directly to Oriande.”}“Then that’s what Voltron will do.” Shiro stood up, and she was glad for his support.{“The Atlas will accompany you as well. We do not have time to wait for the rest of the Coalition, we must do this quickly. Curtis, contact Matt, let him know the rebels will be in charge of the evacuation efforts for the occupied planets. They, they should not expect assistance. Contact Kolivan as well, ask him to join as soon as possible, his aid would be beneficial in this battle.”}Curtis nodded, pulling up his datapad to get to work.{“Everyone to your stations, prep the MFEs and Voltron, be ready to launch. It is time to begin our assault on Oriande.”}People jumped to action, crew members running from the room while the Paladins left. Allura stood there, watching them go until Coran was the last one in the room.{“Coran, I have a favor to ask, and I beg of you to not say no.”}Moments later, the rebel ships housed on the Atlas were ready for launch and Kolivan had confirmed that they would be there to fight. With everyone on comms, Allura made her last address before the battle.{“The Universe is facing the gravest threat it has ever seen and no one knows it is happening. Haggar has exploited a vulnerable people, my people, and bent them to her will. That horror aside, she will bend the universe to her will as well, tearing apart planets and people. She had built a weapon that can destroy an entire galaxy, maybe more.{"This quintant, we risk our lives to stop her. We fight to live another quintant and to make sure those innocent lives do not pay the price. We are the only thing that can stop her and guard the stars. May the ancestors watch over you all.”}Allura stood on the Captain’s Platform, Coran at her side as she opened the wormholes. There were three different ones for Rebels, another for the Blades to join them and the final one that would take them to Oriande. The Rebels launched, the Blades showed up, the Paladins were in their Lions and the MFEs were charged.It was time to end this war, and they would be bringing the fight to Haggar.Atlas flew through the wormhole and Allura stepped aside, leaving the platform to Coran as she ran down to the Lions. She didn’t have time to say goodbye to anyone, but she would be back.This time, she would return with her people safe and sound.She caught Blue before they launched, the Lion opening her mouth to greet her. Allura climbed in, and Lance stayed focused as if she wasn’t there.{“Hold on, and be quiet. Shiro does not know.”}She smiled, holding onto the chair as Lance instructed. As if she was going to stay behind while they fought Haggar. She wasn’t a Paladin, but she would end the fight herself if she had to.Allura was done killing people for no reason. It was time for everyone to move forward and to find peace.The time for violence was over, she would make sure of it.

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Though the full Coalition was spread across the Universe, guiding new planets and giving shelter to refugees, there was a large force on the Atlas for this very reason. Matt watched as several ships were filled with soldiers and medical care, prepared for anything that could happen. There would be enough, at least three ships for each of the planets needing aid.Still, he wished there was more he could do. But they were running out of time, Quintessence was being drained at this very moment. They would save who they could, while the Atlas and Blades took care of the rest.Holding tightly to Sem, he climbed into the last ship and then they were flying toward the wormhole that would take them to Sanook.Across the universe, four Komars moved in unison. They stood, pulling their blades free from the ground before leaning back and opening the chest panel. They fired, stolen energy shooting across the universe as the planet below them died.Matt watched as the purple beam fired, not at them but at a point unknown. It wasn’t an attack, but he saw the gray forming around the base of the attack. This was Quintessence, taken from the planet.[“Matt, what is happening?”] Sem asked.[“I don’t know, but we’re going to save as many people as we can. All ships, go to the surface, begin evacuation!”]With nothing attacking really, the ships landed easily and he was relieved to see evacuation ships already being loaded. The Rebels covered the entire planet, shuttling small families to the larger ships and doing what they could.The closer they got to the Komars, the weaker the ground was and Matt could feel it taking energy from him as well. Once they were sure no one was there, they spread out, doing what they could to avoid the giant machines.The Coalition was here to save people, and Matt would do just that.Atlas came through the wormhole, stopping before the bright white hole. Coran held on as temporary captain as the ship was pulled in by the white hole.“Sam, we are experiencing interference. Can you lock that down?” Coran called out to the engineer.“I’m on it!”Down below, Sam ran to where Slav was working the Theestak typing furiously on his computer.“This interference is multi-phasal. What could cause something like this?” He asked.Slav stopped, turning around with wild eyes. “Wait, what color socks are you wearing?”“What? Why does that matter?”“You didn’t answer me!” Slav began to flail his arms around. “Why didn’t you answer me? There’s a 99 3/5 chance the multi-phasal interference is from a reality-ending event!”Slav had a brilliant mind, but Sam feared he would never understand the genius. “Because of my, socks?”“We need to modify the dichromate resonance chamber to a super position.”“Uh, good thinking.” Sam was just going to not ask about his socks again. “That will isolate the mutated antimatter isotopes.”He ran toward the door so he could fix that when Slav yelled out another request.“And please, put on some blue socks!”Sam was wearing green socks to support his children, he wasn’t going to change anytime soon.With Sam working on something to stabilize the ship, Coran scanned the white hole for incoming enemies.“There they are! The Olkari Cubes!”Surrounding the spire of the white hole were four Cubes, positioned just right. They weren’t doing anything, but it confirmed that Haggar did have a plan for them.{“I-I am not picking up an-any en-energy signatures. They, they seem to be inactive.”} Liah reported.“I’m picking something up. It’s coming from the white hole.” Veronica said.{“That must be the Guardian. Which is a good thing you know. Last time the White Lion would not let even Voltron through which means Haggar cannot possibly be-”}“Incoming!” Veronica shouted.He was left eating his words as two Komars came from inside the white hole. From Oriande.Voltron was left in the hangar, cameras linked to the bridge as they waited for the all-clear. Allura had hoped that Haggar wasn’t really at Oriande, the White Lion was always at her side which meant the Guardian was alive and well. Right?Seeing the Komars, she leaned forward over Lance and let out a shout, unknowing that Blue's comms were on.{“No! They should not be allowed in there. What, what happened? How could Haggar...?”}She looked down but the White Lion said nothing, looking forward and growling at the white hole. The White Lion was obviously not dead, but what had Haggar done to the Guardian to gain access to Oriande.“Coran, we don’t have time to deal with the Komars. Can you take care of them?”“We will get you through, Shiro. You are clear to launch when ready.”The Blade cruisers joined the Atlas, several ships forming a blockade around the white hole. They wouldn’t hold up as well against the Komars as Voltron would, but they could last long enough for the Paladins to take care of Haggar.The Lions launched, all five shooting off toward the spire and the battle was begun.“Shields! Prepare to fire weapons!”The orange shield formed moments before the Komars fired but as expected, the laser broke through quite easily. Coran held on as they were rocked, focusing on returning fire instead of the damages they had been inflicted.They just had to hold out, that was the game.“Voltron is in the white hole.”“Thank you, Veronica. Alright, let us see what this beautiful ship can do. Fire!”An orange beam tore through space, grazing the side of one of the Komars and Coran let out a cheer when he was sucked back into the white hole.One down, one to go.Except, these little things were fast and honestly, quite annoying. They continued to fire but the fusion cannon needed time to recharge. The Komar flew out of the way of all the attacks, even with the cruisers behind them offering support.The battle was interrupted by a giant purple beam coming out of nowhere. Coran watched as it flew toward the Olkari Cube and impacted it. Three other beams appeared and a circle of energy was formed around the spire of the white hole.Until the energy was sucked down in pure Quintessence for Haggar to use for whatever terrible purpose she had.“Shield energy at forty-three percent.”One of the Komars jumped forward, slashing with their swords and Veronica changed her answer.“Thirty-six.”While they were holding out, Coran didn’t like the Olkari Cubes gathering energy. Instead he reached for Kolivan, giving him orders as well as the Atlas Crew.“We must try to destroy those cubes, launch the MFE’s and fighters. We can hold off the Komar while they focus on the Cubes.”Kolivan nodded and the fighters were preparing to launch.“Give them heavy covering fire so they can slip away undetected!” Liah did so, firing from all the portside cannons while the MFE’s left the Atlas.The Olkari Cubes were terribly strong, but they had to at least try and do something.The Komar continued to attack, cutting one of Kolivan’s ships and damaging the Atlas even more. Coran sighed as the MFE’s reported that their attacks were doing nothing to the Cubes. Any damage they did was fixed because of the massive amounts of energy it was receiving.Coran was starting to think they should have waited for the full Coalition. He wasn’t sure if they could win this battle.At that moment, the spire of the white hole began to glow, sending out shoots of light. Coran held up his arms as the screen was overtaken, blinding him and the rest of the crew. When the light faded, they were left floating in a dark room, the entire system had been shocked and forced to turn off.Sam groaned as he held his head, unprepared for the gravity failing. “What just happened?”Slav was already at the console, looking up the stats for the Atlas as the emergency generators turned on.“I don’t know. I’ve never seen anything like this before. I’m attempting a reboot of the theramagnetic oscillator. Wait, did you change your socks?”“I thought it wasn’t important.” Sam pulled himself into one of the chairs.“Oh no! I think we were just hit with time spillage!”“Time spillage!” He turned to get more answers but Slav had gone back to his console.“It’s a rip in the fabric of this reality. Pulses of Quintessence are disassociating the synchronized molecules in the ship’s power crystal.”“How do we fix it?”“For starters, you have to take off your socks!” Slav was suddenly there, holding onto his leg and Sam was left with no choice.Matt closed the door after the last native, running over to the Rebel ship as the shuttle started to take off.[“Everyone’s safe. Let’s get out of here!”]Matt kept the camera on the Komar, watching as it fell to its knees, breaking the surface even more. Purple cracks continued to cover the surface until all life left the planet and it started to break apart. They had gotten the people safe, but he feared the Komar had completed its mission.Haggar now had the energy of four whole planets which was then multiplied by the Olkari Cubes.And no one knew what she was going to do with that energy.

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Voltron didn’t have to fight through the Guardian, something he wished they had to. Haggar had done something to the great Lion, something Lance wasn’t sure if he wanted to know.“Look out! Behind us!” Hunk warned and Lance moved Voltron out of the way of a large purple beam.Even so, Lance felt the energy buzz past them, drawing them further into the white hole.Lance wished he could stand in amazement of the place, the magical land that made his Father the scholar he was, but instead he was drawn to the glowing towers.The laser blast struck the pyramid and purple lightning filled the air as Quintessence powered up Oriande.Then, to their horror, they found out why Haggar was able to reach this mystical place. The Guardian had been imprisoned in a ball of dark magic, forcing the Lion to remain still. The White Lion was a prisoner as well as the Alteans, caged on the surface.{“How terrible! She has imprisoned the Guardian to use this place as her base of operations.”} Allura glared through the screen, looking ready to jump out to attack.As energy gathered, a spell was activated on the surface and a dark hole was opened. She was summoning something, using the Komars and Olkari Cubes to give her more Quintessence than should have been possible.Voltron flew down to start an attack, but they were pushed back by two of the Komar keeping guard over Haggar.{“Incoming!”} Lance warned.“Swords!”Red and Green came together, forming their dual blades and they clashed with the Komars. Yellow quickly formed the twin cannons, firing at both while Red and Green did what they could to keep the Komars distanced.The problem was that there were two Komars working together. Just when they would get a handle on one of them, the other would come from behind and tear lighting through Voltron. Lance and Allura held onto Blue as lighting coursed through them and the Lion.Scree, those things packed a punch!Stunned, they weren’t able to do anything to block the first one coming back to strike them. Voltron was thrown back, soaring right into one of the floating rocks.Before they could move, white light blinded them and Lance looked down to where Haggar stood at the pyramid. The hole was now sending out air and rocks as if Haggar was trying to draw something out of the ground.A wave of air passed over them and Lance was left staring as the area around them changed. Alteans were sitting on purple grass, enjoying a summer quintant like nothing was wrong.{“What? What is going on?”}“Are those people down there? Where did they come from?”The wave vanished before Hunk could finish talking and then they were back at the original Oriande with barren rocks. Another wave of energy passed over them and they saw more Alteans, living in a completely unknown world.“I think, I think we’re seeing into other realities.”“What do you mean, Pidge?” Keith asked.The next wave showed Alteans living in a world with tall towers lit up with bright lights, the world darker than the Altea Lance remembered.“There must be some kind of rip in the fabric of space-time. The essence of these realities is, leaking out, or something like that. With all this energy, Haggar has the whole universe, the multiverse in her hands. She’s going to tear everything apart, she could cause irreparable damage to ours and every reality!”One of the Komars then fired upon them, Green pulling up her shield to block some of the hits. Using the dust from the attack, Voltron slipped out the back to try attacking Haggar again. Once they were free, they turned and Lance fired the ice laser at the Komar. He managed to freeze the staff of one and the arm of another.“Let’s move! We’ve gotta get down there!” Shiro ordered.Lance activated the thrusters with Hunk, sending them down toward the surface. They got close but they were pushed back by the amount of energy coming out of Haggar’s spell. Lance and Hunk worked to stabilize Voltron and they managed just in time to see a huge wave of light get sent out toward the white hole.Voltron fought to stay upright as the energy was pulled out of Oriande and then suddenly, everything was still. There was no more spell, no waves of another reality, no more purple energy.There was only Lotor’s forgotten mech standing before the Pyramid, humming with Quintessence.Lance had seen Lotor, with his vacant eyes and soft smile. He knew Lotor was back on Earth, kept under lock and key and several watchful eyes.And yet, for one terrible moment, he feared Lotor was that creature again, ruggle-bent on killing them all. The suit was here, who else could have been piloting it?Until the suit stood, glowing with twisted Quintessence, eyes glowing purple. Haggar had ripped time and space apart to bring the suit all the way here from the Quintessence field to use as a weapon.“This was Haggar’s plan all along.” Shiro whispered. “Paladins, attack!”Voltron charged toward the suit, swords meeting the suit's blades. They clashed several times before the suit got a hold of Voltron’s blades. Lance didn’t hesitate, forming the arm cannon immediately and firing upon Lotor. The suit was frozen on the right side and Keith acted soon after, forming the upgraded sword and impaling the suit.It faltered, lights flickering but the suit continued to fight. Green pulled up the sword to block the suit’s tail, knocking them back. Lance managed to spare a glance down at the pyramid, watching as Haggar stood at the base, eyes glowing as she held onto a wormhole console.{“We cannot kill him.”}{“What do you mean? We have to finish this, we have to reach Haggar.”}The suit smacked Voltron, forcing them into another island. Buried into the rock, the suit continued to punch, each hit pushing them further and further into the surface until they came out the other side. Voltron flew through the air and Lance groaned as they hit the land of Oriande.Lance kept his eyes shut as he forced the words out of his mouth. {“Haggar is, powering the suit. We cannot win while she is in control.”}Allura left the cockpit before Voltron could even start to move. Lance shouted for her, watching as she began to hop across the land.“Lance! What’s going on?” Shiro asked and it was only then that Lance realized that Voltron was forced to kneel because Blue wasn’t moving.{“Lura, she, she has gone after Haggar. Alone.”}Lance wanted to run after her, but Voltron couldn’t fight without him. Blue moved and Voltron stood, but Lance wasn’t sure what to do after that.“Look, we have to keep fighting. Allura can handle Haggar, she has in the past. We need-”{“We cannot win, Shiro, Haggar is controlling the suit.”}“We’ll win if we tear the suit into pieces.” Keith growled.“Suit incoming!” Hunk shouted and they looked up to see the suit aiming its gun right at them.Lance was forced to act, Blue moved Voltron out of the way as lasers rained down on them. They flew toward the suit only for one of the Komars to get in the way. The Komar punched and Voltron stopped midair.Then, to Lance’s horror, the suit attacked. The tail cut right through the Komar like it was nothing, letting the Komar fall toward the ground. Hunk forced Voltron to move out of the way at the last second and the suit continued to attack with Voltron slowly chipping away at it.Parts of it fell to Oriande, a hand broken off, a leg frozen, a shoulder destroyed, and yet it kept fighting. Voltron was stronger now and really it wasn’t much of a fight, but it just wouldn’t stop.At one point, the suit summoned a blade and prepared to swing only for Voltron to gain an unexpected friend. The last Komar came forward, blocking the hit and pushing the suit back. Voltron was left watching as the Komar fought the suit, both nearly as strong as the other.“Well, I didn’t see this coming.” Keith commented.“Hey, I’m all for it. I mean, anyone else tired of fighting a zombie suit?” Hunk asked.{“Shiro...”} Lance started, unsure what he was asking for.His focus was on the pyramid steps where Haggar had Allura frozen, kneeling at her feet. Lance needed to be there, to stop her.“Go. We can take care of this as Lions.”Voltron pulled apart and Blue charged toward Haggar. Coming from behind, Lance was hoping for a surprise attack, to take Haggar out and end all of this quickly.He shouldn’t have wished for such a simple ending.Lance left Blue, letting her fly and jumping out of her open mouth when the time came. He pulled out his bayard, feeling it shift into his hand into an Altean spear, white and blue with a blade on each end.Before he could strike, darkness swirled around him and everything went black.{“Altea’s forgotten Prince.”}Lance swung out with his arm, meeting only shadow and mist. {“Come out, Haggar! If it is a fight you want, it is a fight you shall get.”}{“This is just the beginning. Join me and our people and you will rule like the King you deserve to be. Allura doesn’t have what it takes, she is weak but you, you will be important, and you will go down in history as the greatest King Altea has ever seen. Join me and we will go back to Altea.”}Lance pushed the hissed words out of his mind, not giving himself to think about them. Yes, as a child he wished to be important like his siblings, but he’d grown up and changed.{“Do not mention Altea to me. We cannot go back, it was destroyed because of you, Witch!”}{“Think of your father, he was never one for war. I knew Alfor well, this is what he would have wanted. Join me, my Great Prince.”}{“Never! You cannot keep me here, I will find my way out. And the moment you release your hold of me, I will end you!”}He spun around, finally finding Haggar in the dark, except she had changed. Her skin was brown with red Altean marks, dull and weak. She was dressed as a Queen, but her eyes were full of malicious intent. In her hands was a dark orb, showing Allura behind held with a dark blade against her neck.{“Then you will end your sister as well. One wrong move and she will die, because of you. Join me, King Lancelot and you shall rule the world.”}Lance had a terrible moment of weakness, watching Allura struggle against the blade. Neither of them was more important, neither of them would be the greater ruler and Lance could not watch his sister die because of him. He knew this could be a trick, but he couldn’t risk Allura dying to prove Haggar wrong.So, he closed his eyes, letting his bayard drop and the next thing he knew he was on the hard ground with a terrible headache.He looked up, seeing Allura there as well with tears in her eyes and Lance was right, it was yet another magic trick.Lance turned, bayard as a spear again but was stopped by something falling from the sky. The last of Lotor’s twisted suit fell, the helmet crashing as Haggar’s feet. It cracked open, showing that it had been empty all along. She growled, and then screamed, lighting surrounding her.Lighting filled the area around them and Lance jumped, forcing Allura to the ground. Cracks formed under them as Haggar raged and Lance knew they couldn’t stay here any longer.To his surprise, the pyramid began to rise, pulled up by Haggar’s magic and anger. Blue came for them, swallowing them as the ground began to fall apart. She flew them over to where the other Lions hovered, watching as Haggar raised the pyramid and the four spires.Oriande began to crumble before their eyes and they had no choice but to leave or risk dying there.

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Voltron had grown stronger since they fought Lotor’s suit last, but it was much harder to fight something that wouldn’t die. They kept fighting and blasting and slashing and the suit kept flying and firing back.At one point, the suit summoned a blade and prepared to swing only for Voltron to gain an unexpected friend. The last Komar came forward, blocking the hit and pushing the suit back. Voltron was left watching as the Komar fought the suit, both nearly as strong as the other.“Well, I didn’t see this coming.” Keith commented smartly.“Hey, I’m all for it. I mean, anyone else tired of fighting a zombie suit?” Hunk asked.{“Shiro...”} Lance started but left the sentence hanging.Pidge glanced down at the corner of the screen where they saw Allura frozen by Haggar’s magic. They understood Lance, if that had been Matt down there, Pidge would do anything to save him. Shiro seemed to think the same, letting Lance go.Voltron fell apart and Blue left them, going for the pyramid. They continued to fight, weaker apart but the suit wasn’t all that strong either. With the aid of the other Komar, they began to break the suit apart.Equipped with jawblades, they cut the suit into pieces, watching them fall to Oriande. The Komar delivered the final cut, severing the suit’s head. With nothing to fight, they turned to face the Pyramids to check on the Alteans.Suddenly there was a flash of purple and then Oriande started to rise. The ground began to crumble under them, as if Haggar was tearing it all apart. Thankfully, Blue joined them a moment later and Allura could be heard.{“Paladins. Are, are you all well?”}Keith responded first. “Yes, Allura, Lance, what happen-”“Sorry to interrupt, but we gotta get out of here before it’s too late.” Pidge kept watch on their scanners which showed how the white hole was starting to collapse.“Okay, okay, but we’ll talk about this later, right?”{“Whatever you need, amor. Come, let us go.”} Lance said tiredly.“Sounds great to me!” Hunk and Yellow shot through the sky, aiming for the shrinking exit in the sky.Pidge followed him as did the others. Really, Pidge would rather not be trapped here forever.The Atlas was waiting for them as they came out of the white hole. They aimed for the ship, glad to see that it was still there as well as several of Kolivan’s cruisers. Shortly after a wormhole formed and the cruisers began to leave.The energy signatures of the white hole kept climbing until they reached a peak. Behind them, the white hole exploded but they made it all through the wormhole just in time.For a while, they were all silent and Pidge was just happy to still be alive.Hunk broke the silence. “What the heck just happened?”{“We failed.”} Allura said.{“And every reality will pay the price.”} Lance finished.Okay, so something happened to them when they were fighting Haggar, that much was obvious. This was going to be an exciting debrief.Rebels, Blades and all sorts of people filed onto the Atlas but Pidge watched as Allura and Lance stood to the side, holding hands and whispering. Coran joined them moments later, the three stood in a tight hug, leaning on each other. Keith hovered near, held back only by Shiro.“Haggar killed her own pilot.” Hunk whispered. “And that other one, it joined us. What’ll happen to them?”Pidge shook their head. “Hunk, I’ve stopped trying to understand her and the rest of the Alteans. Come on, let’s go find Matt.”Though it was late, Allura called for a debrief right away, not giving them enough time to change armor or even eat some food. This time she stood at the front, eyes hard as she looked at them all.{“Haggar won, but we cannot stop fighting. She has her Komars and is planning something. Curtis, I need you looking for the wormhole signs Pidge found. The moment we receive one, you are to tell me immediately. I will not let another planet die like Olkarion.{“In the meantime, our only goal will be Haggar. We will save planets and do what the Atlas was ordered to do. But I need those who are able to search for her, contact planets and spread the word.{“This war will never end, if Haggar is not captured and stopped.”}Pidge sighed, no breaks for a Paladin of Voltron it seems.

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Acxa wasn’t so sure about these, humans.They were strange, needing a bitter liquid in the morning to wake up, staying up all night watching silly movies and their words didn’t make any sense. Thankfully, she wasn’t the only one who thought these people were odd. The Rebel, Sen or something, would stand with her sometimes, just watching the humans laughing over their devices.She could have gone with the Blades to resurrect their order, but something drew her to the Atlas. There was something pulling on her chest, something she couldn’t understand.Acxa had gone to Krolia and Kolivan, worried something was wrong with her heart or lungs. Krolia had smiled, though she didn’t know why it was funny, and said everything was alright.[“I felt drawn to Earth the same way you are drawn to the Atlas. Listen to your heart, only good things will come if you do. And Acxandra, let these people into your heart.”]She did what Krolia said, though she was starting to doubt the change.One of the humans with short hair was on the ground with what they called a dog, letting the animal lick his face. They were supposed to be training to stay in shape but Short Hair, was playing with Bae Bae.Acxa refocused, changing position into a deep lunge.“Oh, I used to have a puppy just like her, I don’t know how Matt doesn’t spend all day with this cutie. That dog meant the world to me, though I lost her when I was a boy. Went outside one day, didn’t come home.”Acxa shifted her weight slowly, letting it rest on her hand while she lifted her feet slightly off the ground.“I know how you feel. My brothers and sisters adopted every stray animal they could find. There was this one cat, ‘Flash’ we called him. He hated everybody except me. Smart cat.”This time she lifted her legs up into the air, one leg up while the other stayed bent. She focused on the ground, trying to ignore how well she could hear Veronica’s voice.“...Acxa?” She didn’t realize Short Hair was talking to her until he said her name. “Did you have pets where you’re from?”She froze mid push-up, leaving her elbow bent while her other arm stuck out for balance. [“I never had a creature companion, the creatures on Mirum burned my skin when they touched me.”]Acxa smoothly rolled out of the upright position, standing before the group of humans. [“But one of my sisters, Narti, was bonded to an immortal animal named Kova. She was killed by Lotor and I haven’t seen Kova since, she’s most likely lost to space.”]“Oh.”Short Hair was giving her a blank look for some reason while Veronica was trying to force a smile.She continued working out after that, wishing she had Zethrid or Ezor here to spar. There were very few warriors on this ship, none of them compared to her skill level. Humans weren’t trained killers, it wasn’t fun fighting them.After finishing her routine, she made her way to the feeding area for mid meal. Humans filled the room, sitting close together. Another thing that was strange, but they weren’t used to fighting for their food. They also had sections for each species, though Acxa wasn’t sure if it was planned or accidental.The Alteans were there, The Advisor, the Child, the Bubbly one and the Stutterer. Their table was loud, even without the Queen or Prince there.Then there were the rebels, Sen Something, the Holt Boy, the Caudan and her robot. They were pleasant to sit with, though Holt Boy could be overwhelming at times. He asked too many questions.There was a table for the technicians, the kitchen staff, the civilians, and the lieutenants. With everyone split up, Acxa sat by herself. She didn’t belong to any of the groups, not really.Finally, the star crew, the MFE pilots. Veronica sat with Quiet Boy, Freckles, Glasses and Arrogant One. They sat in the center, not too quiet and not too loud, but something about that table still bothered Acxa.Maybe it was the fact that every time she looked over, Veronica was staring back at her.Acxa looked back at her plate, trying to ignore Veronica’s bright blue eyes. She wasn’t here to make friends. She was here to figure out why her chest was strange and then she could go home. That was it.She looked up again, this time Veronica smiled and waved. [“Acxa! Come join us.”]Acxa didn’t sit with them because she wanted to. She only moved to tell Veronica that she needed to work on her Galran. It was terrible.Veronica moved to make room and she tried to continue eating. But Veronica started talking yet again.“So, how did you meet the Paladins?”[“Well, I first met Keithir when I was stuck in the third stomach of a Weblum. He saved my life and I tried to kill him. I met the others when we orchestrated a trap after we took over a planet.”]No one talked for a while and Glasses broke the silence.“What were you doing in a, stomach?”[“Gathering scaultrite to help enable Lotor to conquer the universe.”] There was no point hiding what she had done, these people weren’t going to be her friends even if she hid the truth.“I once got stuck in a ball pit when I was a kid.” Glasses said.[“I do not know what a Ball Pit is, but I am sorry you were in such a situation.”]Acxa went back to her food comfortable with the silence that followed her words.“Well, what do you think of the crew, the Atlas? It must be a pretty different dynamic.”]Veronica tried forcing the conversation again.[“I suppose, you don’t try to kill or rob each other nearly as often as the Galra typically do. But the Galra also have an expression, ‘combat is the searing light that burns away imperfections.’ Without struggle, we are weak and helpless people. If one doesn’t learn to fight for their food, they starve.”]Another pause, this time broken by Freckles. “It would appear the mood at this table has become rather awkward.”Glasses elbowed Freckles for some reason.“Most likely due to your Galra lineage.”Glasses slapped her face and Quiet Boy dropped his food, but Acxa admired Freckles for being confident to tell the truth. Acxa didn’t make friends, she’d never really been given the chance. She knew how to survive, she didn’t do, small talk. It made sense, she did make the table awkward.But when she looked over at Veronica who seemed quite upset, she suddenly wished she was different. Veronica was trying to help her, trying to include her and yet, Acxa didn’t know how to fit in.She didn’t want every conversation with Veronica and her friends to be awkward.[“If you’ll excuse me, I have training to do.”]She picked up her tray, dumped the food in the garbage and she walked away without looking back.Acxa wanted to be close to these humans, but she just couldn’t understand them. She couldn’t fit in, she doubted she ever would.She really did continue training, there wasn’t much else to do on this ship. This time she found the shooting range, calling for her level before she began firing at the orange targets. Even as they moved around the platform, she hit each one.Acxa didn’t miss.Someone fired from her right, hitting the target she was aiming at. She turned, unsurprised to see Veronica McClain there.The woman stood with two hands on her gun, glaring down the targets as she aimed. Acxa sighed, dropping her arm as she turned to speak to the woman.[“I know you have little trust in me, but your constant presence is tiresome. If you have a problem, let’s end it now.”]“Acxa, it’s not that I don’t trust you.”There was no reason for her chest to feel lighter after hearing those words.[“Then, what is it?”]“I want to get to know you. There's something about you, I just want to know more.”[“And you thought that could be accomplished by sneaking up on me at the firing range?”]“I didn’t sneak up on you.”[“Only because I’m always aware of my surroundings.”]Veronica sighed. “Look, I’m sorry that I may have been following you around. And maybe I should have said something instead of just watching. I just, I want to be your friend and I wasn’t sure how to make that happen. You’re so closed off, I didn’t hear you talk for the first week after we launched. I didn’t want to screw up and have you hate me or something. I didn’t want you to feel like you didn’t fit in with us, with me.”Acxa lived her whole life lying and when she changed sides, she promised to never lie again to live her life no matter who she hurt or what bridges she burned. Her words came out brutal, her actions harmful and she didn’t care.Veronica was honest as well, but it was different for her. She smiled without weight, she laughed without care and she welcomed all without judgment. Veronica had friends, she fit in.They were both honest and yet, they lived opposite lives, another thing that didn’t make sense.Maybe there was just something wrong with her.Acxa looked away from Veronica, her hope uncomfortable. [“I have spent my whole life not fitting in, not belonging to anyone or anything. I’m used to it, it’s all I’ve ever known. I was an outcast, a half-breed on a planet that didn’t want me. I was a soldier fighting someone else's war, someone sent to die for an unknown cause. The only way I survived was to either blend in or become worse than my enemies. And I don’t need to fit in here, I am here to help Keithir and do my part to end this war.”]“But you’ve changed.” Veronica’s voice was soft and Acxa looked up, unable to look away from those brilliant blue eyes. “You’re not who you used to be in the past, and I know there’s more to you than what you did. You’re changing every day, you deserve to feel like you belong to something, to be included. Don’t you want some friends that will support you and understand you?”[“Bus some people only see the Galra warrior, and I understand why. You say I’ve changed, but I’m unsure if I really have.”]Veronica smiled, and something swelled in Acxa’s chest. “By choosing to help end this war, that’s proof that you’re trying. Change doesn’t happen overnight and it’s not linear either. I have faith in you, Acxa and I want to be friends with you. Will you give me the chance to learn about the Acxa who turned her life around? I have a feeling you’re someone worth getting to know, past mistakes and all.”Acxa would need to see the doctor after this, her heart was suddenly racing and her face was warm.[“If, if that is what you wish, I guess we can, work on that.”]Veronica smiled again, leaving the range with a skip. Acxa turned back to her targets, cursing when the first hit missed the center.She’d talk to the doctor right after this, no matter what Krolia and Kolivan said. Something was wrong with her.

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“So, what’s life like up in the stars?”Adam smiled, glad to see his sister and brother again. “Boring, what’s going on with you two squirts?”“Well, this here baby just got accepted into his dream college!” Amia cheered, ruffling Aaron’s hair.“Well, of course he did, he’s our little smart-ass.”“You know I’m old enough to understand that now.” Aaron glared.“Ah, but what are you gonna do when I’m oh so far away in space, baby brother.”Aaron just flipped him off and Adam laughed. They'd grown up with a rough house and honestly, Adam was more of a father to Amia and Aaron than their parents. They were too busy hating each other, yelling, lying and plotting against the other.It was nice seeing Aaron smiling and Amia laughing. They were happy like they always were supposed to be.“But seriously, tell us about the Atlas!” Amia insisted. “I mean, you work on the IGF-Atlas, which is pretty much the coolest thing ever.”“Not really. I mean, it is, but I’m still healing. I have hours and hours of physical therapy and stacks of papers to grade. Most of the time I'm stuck in my room or classroom, doing abso-fucking-lutely nothing. And it doesn’t help when Takashi hovers all the time.”Amia sighed, hand on her forehead as she swooned. “Oh no! I have an attractive, dedicated, amazing man who wants to make sure I’m alright after nearly dying!”“Shut up, it’s not like that. I mean, he wants to help me use the bathroom and let me tell you, that isn’t all that romantic. And it doesn’t help when I don’t even know our relationship.”Adam ducked his head, hating himself for being so open to his siblings. They had to be there for each other and they always were, but Adam never got over the vulnerability.“Adam, if you can’t see that Shiro is literally obsessed with you, you need to get your eyes checked.”Adam raised a brow, gesturing to his practically blind left eye.“You’re other eye, then.” Amia continued. “He cares for you, just jump his bones and get married, it’s that easy.”“Ew. I really don’t wanna think about Adam, you know, doing it with Shiro.” Aaron shuddered.“Come on! He’s so hot. Where can I find a man like him?”“Can we not talk about my, about Takashi like this? Aren’t you supposed to be helping me?”Amia just smiled. “Seriously, talk to him, Adam. It won’t hurt to confess again and get the ball rolling. Trust in him and in yourself.”“Maybe. Takashi should be home soon, I’m gonna go. Call again next week?”“Works for me.”Amia waved. “We’ll see you then! I’m taking Aaron out to dinner using your bank card, expect several charges! Okayloveyoubye!”Amia cut the call before Adam could scold them. He leaned back, thinking back to his situation with Takashi.Takashi was always out on a mission, fighting enemies, saving people and going to another planet. Adam understood, he really did, but he wanted to be selfish.All of his life Adam sacrificed. He gave up his childhood to protect his siblings, he let his parents walk all over him and he was silent about his desires to please others. He let Takashi walk away rather than fight.He wanted to steal Takashi’s attention, go on dates again, see if they still had that spark from their younger years. He wanted Takashi to struggle to make a meal to impress him, to make him laugh like they weren’t fighting a war. Most of all he wanted all of Takashi’s attention, for Takashi to look and talk of him and only him.Instead of voicing these things, he was playing with the food on his plate, silent.Takashi sat opposite him, a soft smile on his face as he ate.“Really good, Adam. I don’t know how you’re cooking is always different from mine. I follow the same directions.”“Mhm.”“Then again, Keith likes to joke I could burn water if I tried to. Maybe I can get Hunk to give me some cooking lessons or something.”“Sounds great.”“He really was amazing during the whole thing, making Earth-like meals even though we were well, nowhere near Earth. The first time he made pizza I think Pidge cried.”“Uh-huh.”“Allura’s been driving me up the wall though. She and Lance are really pushing to find the other Komars, which I understand, don’t get me wrong. But the crew looks more tired of late, I wonder if there was something we could do to take some weight off her shoulders.”“Hmm.”“Are, are you mad at me?”He looked up at that, finding Takashi giving him those ever-powerful puppy eyes. Adam’s mouth turned up and he shook his head.“Just a long day.”“You haven’t taken a single bite.”“Yes I have.” Though, when Adam looked down he realized he really hadn’t had any pasta.“Adam.”He stayed focused on his plate, he was weak to Takashi and would break if he said the word. Strange, when he’d been so strong his whole life beforehand. What was in this man’s genes that made Adam so weak to him?“What’s wrong, dear?”That. That’s what was wrong. Takashi would hold his hand, kiss his cheek and say sweet words and yet, they hadn’t said one word about their relationship!This had gone on for weeks, them flirting around each other, Takashi was the worst at that, but neither of them had said if they were dating, partners, fiancés again or something else.“Nothing.”Takashi stood and Adam looked up to see him holding out his hand, shiny black arm open for him to take.“Come with me, I want to show you something.”Adam couldn’t fight back, not against those soft eyes. He held up his hand, letting Takashi help him stand.They walked slowly, Adam still getting used to the metal pegleg and his energy was still low. Takashi didn’t say a word, his face pleasant the whole time they meandered through the halls of the Atlas. It was evening so there weren’t many people out which Adam was thankful for.The doors to the bridge opened and Coran left with a salute.“Kashi, I’ve been on the bridge before, you know.”“Yes, but you haven’t seen this.”Adam leaned back on the railing and Takashi pressed a button. The floor opened up and Adam watched as a canister opened up, showing the crystal that powered the whole ship.“It’s, so small.” He said in awe.“I don’t know if you remember, but for our first official date, we snuck down to the hangar to see the rockets. I talked on and on about the engine, the wiring, the computer, everything. You stood there the whole time, just smiling as I rambled on like a goof.”“Yes, I remember that. Though, I remember I then talked on about the aerodynamics of the ship. You aren’t alone in being a nerd, Takashi.”“I know, I know, I just thought, you’d like to see how this worked as well. I mean, Sam showed me the readings for the crystal. The amount of Quintessence this thing, and I’m rambling again.”Takashi smiled and Adam let go of his worries a little.“It’s strange, to think that this is what’s keeping us alive right now. It seems, impossible.”“I’ve learned that impossible is just, things we don’t understand yet. I mean, this used to be a giant castle, large enough to fit Voltron and more. Now it’s this.” Takashi reached out his hand and it looked like the crystal would fit in his palms.“Look over here.” He pointed to the screen and Adam turned. “I got permission from Allura for this, since I’m not Captain. I wanted to show you where I’ve been, the wonders I’ve seen.”Adam had always been drawn to the stars but not like Takashi. He wanted to be there, to explore and find in person. Adam wanted to know why and how, where the distant planets were and what it would take for them to reach them.Suddenly, he fell in love with the universe the same way Takashi did.Adam was shown a planet that was alive, people that could manipulate nature, worms that ate planets, nebulas, stars, and galaxies. Everything was so beautiful, bright and amazing. He'd always known the universe was full of wonderful things, but it was even more wonderful seeing it reflected in Takashi’s eyes.Takashi always saw the wonder in things, in students who weren’t doing so well, in pilots who couldn’t fly, in runaway children seeking a home, and in him as well. While Adam saw himself as a broken man, Takashi found something worth loving.“And here, we found the Boh people. Coran got really close to this one guy...”Takashi was back to rambling, but Adam didn’t feel ignored this time.“Takashi, what are we.” He blurted.He turned, eyes wide and mouth open.“Huh?”“I mean, I’m tired of dancing around. Do I kiss you when you leave or bro hug you and you call me dear and sweetheart but I can’t tell if that’s just because you’re such a good man. Are we partners, lovers, friends, what are we?”“You’re everything.”Adam’s face flushed from the sincere tone, even though that was a terrible answer.“You are one of the reasons I got through the Gladiator pits, the reason I continued to fight, the reason I even made it here. I, I went through something and lost some memories and all I had was you, your name, your face, your love. Adam, Voltron fought for peace, for the people but I, I fought for you.”His smile grew the longer Takashi talked, and his heart swelled with hope.“But-”It all vanished and he dropped his head. Takashi was right there, tipping his chin up to make eye contact. His eyes were soft, not full of anger or malice.“But I’ve changed. I’m not the man you remember-”Adam let out a laugh before gesturing to his burns, scared skin and new limbs. Takashi rolled his eyes and continued.“I’ve been changed by the war, mentally and physically. I mean, you asked about why my hair was white, right? Well, I died.“I died during a battle and my body was crushed by the energy of Zarkon. I, I was forced into the mind of one of the Lions and I stayed there, forced to watch my team interact with a clone sent to kill them. I watched as the clone tore my team apart, and then he tried to kill them before nearly killing Keith. I’ve done terrible things in the name of freedom, killed people even, Adam. I mean, I have a freaking weapon for an arm!” Takashi laughed and ran said hand through his hair.“I love you with all my heart, but I’ve changed. I have a voice in my head that is angrier, possessive and manipulative. Kuron won’t ever let go of you once he has you and I’m not willing to fight him on that. I’m the leader of Voltron, I’ll be pulled away constantly, putting my life on the line for others. You, you deserve someone more, someone better than me. You deserve the world. And I don’t know if I can give that to you.”Adam stepped forward, raising Takashi’s metal arm to the burns covering the left side of his face. “Kashi, you’re not the only one that’s gone through some tough shit. I, I’ll never really know what you’ve gone through, and it sounds like we have plenty more to talk about, but I’ve loved you since I was a teenager. I don’t need the world. I just need you. I watched you walk away once, I don’t want to do it again.”They drew close together, Takashi standing over him with his stupid height and Adam had to admit, the muscles gained through the war were pretty nice.“I’m going to admit something and you have to promise not to laugh. Okay?”Chest to chest, they whispered in the shared space. “I promise.”“I thought we were dating this whole time.”Adam burst out laughing, leaning forward and resting his forehead on Takashi’s chest. He tried not to laugh, he really did, but it was so damn hard with Takashi’s obliviousness.“What! I mean, I kept kissing you before missions and we hugged, and I come to your room whenever I’m not on a mission.”“I-I thought we had, had started over. Like as friends!” He said through laughter and deep breaths.There was a slapping sound and he looked up to see Takashi’s hand on his forehead while his right stayed behind Adam’s back. It was only then that he realized how close they were. If Adam just leaned up, they’d be kissing.The mood shifted again and this time, Takashi didn’t kiss his cheek. The first was soft, chaste, testing the waters gently. Adam didn’t want gentle, he needed Takashi to want him the same way he wanted Takashi. He wanted Takashi, the man he remembered, all his love, attention and problems. He reached up, fisting Takashi’s hair and pulling him closer.The kisses shifted, stronger, bolder and Adam lost himself in Takashi. Eventually, they pulled away for air but Adam forced them to stay close, his eyes dazed.“I like this.” Adam kissed him again. “But let’s, not do this, on the bridge. Please.” Takashi managed to say between Adam’s kisses.Adam pulled them back to their room, no longer feeling the pain in his recovering muscles.The only thing better was waking up the next morning to see Takashi still there, sheets covering his body as the fake sunlight shone on his face. Adam would need to take his meds, Takashi as well but instead he rolled over closer, holding onto Takashi.The nightmare was over and finally, finally he had Takashi Shirogane in his arms once more.And this time, he wasn’t going to let go.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

It was nice, being a family again. Romelle had nearly forgotten how it felt to be surrounded by people who loved and cared for you.Of course, on the colony she had Aria and her family, they were the only reason Romelle was able to smile after Bandor’s death. Even so, there was this distance, a line she wasn’t sure if she could cross.Here on the Atlas, there was no line. She spent her time with Liah, learning about other cultures and talking about the colony. She met Coran’s granddaughter, a bright spirit who trailed behind him, soaking up every bit of knowledge she could. She spent nights with the Paladins, playing games and feeling like children again. She spent some meals with Allura, doing what she could to make the Queen smile or laugh.Romelle wasn’t alone anymore. She’d grown up with Bandor, he was all she’d had. Life on the Atlas was chaotic, with missions, reports and battles, but it was new and wonderful.Hearing about Oriande was difficult, knowing her friends were being convinced to fight for the wrong reason, that they were laying down their lives. Instead, she’d spent the night with Allura, showing her the new videos she’d found to keep Allura’s spirits up.Romelle was also one of the liaisons to the Altean Pilots they’d recovered. She and Liah were to work with them, and try to figure out what they wanted and how to make them comfortable.The Altean pilots, they didn’t like her.Konra was first, stone faced and unmoving.Milono was angry, glaring at everything, even the walls.Nelira was confused, speaking only about the ‘Great Mother’s wishes’ as if she couldn’t remember any other words.Elessia was, quiet but stubborn. She would turn up her nose whenever they walked into the room like she and Liah were dirt.Draxtir was soft, whispering to himself and holding his arms as if he was scared to do anything more. He smiled once though, when he thought Romelle wasn’t looking.Recovering said pilots did have one benefit, she got to work with Allura. Allura, the Queen of Altea and the woman who held her heart. Of course, it would help if Romelle could stop being so nervous and say her feelings so Allura could either return the feelings or return her heart.They’d had several outings after the first on Earth, but it was difficult on a ship. After the attack on Oriande, Allura had closed herself off again, Romelle took any chance she could to spend time with Allura.Romelle waited with Liah and Zira as the Paladins left to go after the next Komar, unsure of what she should expect. They said it was broken, what if the pilot was already gone? What if-{“Calm down, Ro, there is no-no need to stress.”}Romelle threw up her hands, watching Zira play with a set of toys on the floor. {“What am I to do? Allura will not let us be there for these viewings and I feel so full of energy, I cannot just sit here.”}{“Allura will contact us a-as s-soon a-as anything is discovered. If anything, we, we can visit the others afterwards.”}{“I know you are right. It is just hard to convince my brain of the same reason. How do you, settle like this?”}{“I learned from watching my Mother.”}Romelle sighed, leaning on her hand as Zira began to build a tall tower, the blocks crooked and tilting. {“I miss them. Do, do you think they are alright?”}{“I can-cannot think of anything else. Doubting their con-condition does not help me.”}The private channel to their room was activated and Romelle stood as Allura was heard. {“Ro, we have found another. He is alive.”}The tower suddenly crashed to the floor and Zira let out a squeal of happiness, clapping her hands. Romelle gave them one look before running out of the room.She met Allura near the interrogation room, though she hated the name. She wanted to talk, not force answers out of them. Allura was still in her armor, though her helmet was off and her gaze was serious.{“Are you ready?”}Instead of answering, she held Allura hand and smiled. Soon after they entered and Romelle recognized Tavo right away.{“Greetings. I am Queen Alluradell of-”}{“You are not my Queen. Lotor saved us, Lotor gave us a home, what have you done for us?”} Tavo hissed.{“Tavo, please.”} Romelle tried to connect with him. {“You and I grew up alongside one another. I knew your sister, Mariko, and I know you as well. You must trust me, we are here to help.”}{“We were told that you are a traitor, and I can see now that it is true. You left us, leaving the Great Prince’s mission unfinished. You work with those that killed our Lotor.”}{“Lotor is not dead, he is-”}{“I will not trust a word that comes from your lips. You are a liar, working with liars to tear apart the new Empire. I serve the Great Prince and the Great Mother and I will avenge his death.”}{"You will risk your own life to do so?"}{"To avenge him and serve our Great Mother, yes. They saved us, where were you, oh Queen of Altea? Where were you when our people were dying?"}Allura gasped before clenching her fists. {"Well, if you must know, I was in a coma, forced to sleep for a thousand decaphoebs while the world around me continued on. Those decaphoebs that you struggled, there was nothing I could have done for you."}Tavo paused at that before shutting down, folding his arms and leaning back.Allura sighed, holding onto the bridge of her nose. {“I am tired. I am tired of talking to you, with them, with everyone. We are trying to bring the Altean people back, why can you not understand this?”}Tavo stayed silent, staring straight ahead and Allura sighed. She stood and Romelle followed, walking out of the room.{“Your Majesty-”}Allura shook her head, walking down the other hall. {“I appreciate all you have done to try and make things seem better, I really do, but I cannot right now, Ro. Thank you for all your work, that will be all for now.”}Romelle was left standing in the hall as Allura walked away.So, she went back to the room where Zira was now watching a colorful movie, eyes glued to the screen. Liah seemed to be finishing her report and Romelle fell to the couch with a groan.{“Not a-a great interview?”}{“Terrible.”}{“And l-let me guess, Allura left you again.”}{“It is not her fault. She is stressed, Liah. She is working with the crew, fighting a war, and building a Coalition while trying to save her people. If anything, she is more amazing than ever.”}{“You are blushing.”}{“Am not!”} Romelle defended covering her cheeks.Liah just smiled before going back to her pad. {“I know my Aunt is-is wonderful, I know this, but I-I do not understand your obsession with her.”}{“Oh, Liah, she is the most beautiful woman in the land!”} Romelle fell dramatically, landing in Liah’s lap. {“She is daring, fighting a war to save her people. She is smart, working a whole ship during battles. She is brave and courageous and determined and wonderful. Not only that, but she is stunning with her curly white hair, bright eyes and soft skin. And when she smiles! Ah, I feel like I can do nothing but stare.{“She is but the sun, the light of the world and I am a flower, yearning for her light to live. Should she turn her eye away, I fear I would wither. Yet, she burns me, her laughter is too loud, her smile too bright and her hands too warm. I would burn, though, if it meant she was the one burning me.”}{“You are impossible, this i-i-is my Aunt you are talking about.”}{“You asked.”} Romelle laughed.{“And yet, it took you m-much too long to even ask her out and, and you did not even hold hands. Should I expect news in say, a decaphoeb that, that you have finally kissed?”}Romelle shoved Liah away, sitting up on the couch again. {“She is busy, that is all. We all want to find the Alteans but I fear that if we do not, Allura will remain, broken.”}{“She is stressed, like you said. But, I-I think you help. At least a little.”}Romelle stood, pulling the pad out of Liah’s hands. {“Come, I am tired of being sad. The Altean is alive, Hunk is currently cooking them a treat and we have adorable little Zira with us!”}Zira looked up at her name, standing with them. Romelle bent down, swinging the girl up into her arms and then began to spin. Zira giggled and laughed, asking to be turned upside down.The rest of the evening was full of games, trying to teach Hide and Go Seek and Go Fish while Zira made up a game called ‘Boogie Boogie’ where she ran back and forth. Liah put together a meal and afterward, Romelle and Liah gave her back to Keith and Lance before finding Hunk in the kitchen.Romelle covered her mouth, seeing the familiar purple circles. She was thrown into the past, Mother would make them for after lessons and she would always try to take more without Mother knowing. She hadn’t smelt Coros in, forever.{“Oh Hunk, they look wonderful!”}“Only because you guys helped me. Do you think the Alteans will like them?”Liah leaned close, looking ready to steal one herself. {“If-I they taste as won-wonderful as they smell, th-there is no doubt th-that th-they will enjoy them, Hunk.”}“Oh good. I’m hoping that this will help them remember their childhoods, of a time before Haggar. Maybe that will help them open up more. But, I don’t know, who knows.”Romelle settled a hand on his shoulder, grinning. {“I think you are more powerful than you realize Hunk. Now, let us go before we eat them ourselves. Oh, save a few for me, would you?”}They entered the room which was technically a cell, but Romelle didn’t like to think about it that way. Draxtir was leaning against the wall, Nelira and Elessia sat on the bench by him while Tavo stood to greet them. Konra stayed sitting, sending a fierce glare while Milono pretended not to care.{“Hello. This is our friend, Hunk, and he has prepared something quite special for you.”}Hunk held out the tray with one hand, passing out a coro to each of the Alteans. {“Please eat. I made these for you.”}Milono raised a brow and Draxtir looked at Hunk as if Hunk had poisoned them. Hunk seemed to catch on and ate one, talking with his mouth full.{“Look. It’s good. Please eat.”}To everyone's surprise, Tavo took a bit and Romelle would swear until the quintant she dies, that he smiled for a moment.{“If it is alright, I would like to talk to you about a story I was told. About a Princess of Altea who fought for her people.”}Romelle was good at talking. When she helped those who were hurt, she talked and talked to get their mind off the pain. When Adam said he didn’t have energy, she always had the right words to say to help him. When Allura was having a rough day, Romelle knew what words were needed.She wasn’t good at a lot of things, but she could talk.So she did. She repeated everything Allura, Coran and Lance had told her about Altea’s final day, how they fought to be there, how they watched the planet be destroyed, how they thought the entire race had been killed. Even when her mouth went dry, she continued to talk, about how hard Allura worked, how Coran always pushed through, how Lance was always there to support. She said anything and everything that came to mind, sharing the flaws and faults of the royal family as well.{“The Princess did not call herself Queen until she visited the planet again. The ground had gone cold and dark, the Quintessence stolen away by the people you have sworn to serve. She was there, walking upon the ground of our ancestors and it was there that she made a vow to search for the Altean people. Even after seeing it be destroyed, the Princess continued to fight. Now, she fights for you.”}{“How can we be sure of such things? The Great Mother has talked as well as you, who are we to trust?”} Milono asked.{“If you are unsure, why not hear it from the source?”}She stepped back and the door opened, revealing Allura, Coran and Lance dressed in full royal Altean clothing.{“This time, will you listen?”}Romelle left with Hunk and Liah, stopping only to put a small plate of Coros on Allura’s bed. She deserved some happiness, just like the rest of them.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The camera turned on, focusing on the close-up shot of Coran. He fiddled with it for a tick before moving back, sitting proudly in his chair.{“Absolutely True Tales of an Incredibly Humble Hero. Chapter Forty-Seven: A Hero’s Life. With all that has happened, I figured it would be best to record for future chapters to be written. As you know, I am Coranis Hieronymus Wimbleton Smythe, here to tell you the story.”}Coran shifted, leaning back and a pipe is suddenly in his mouth, though nothing is smoked. The camera followed the change, focusing on his face.{“Last chapter we faced the Witch Haggar on the mystical land of Oriande. Now, our heroes have recovered and continue to fight but it seems as if we finally get a break. Now-”}{“Grandfather!”} A teenager entered the room, leaning on the armrest of the chair. {“Queen Allura has given permission for me to shadow you this quintant! Even should we encounter something or start an attack!”}Coran leaned forward, smiling at the bright girl. {“Wonderful! With your bright mind, I have no doubt that you will fit right in, my dear.”}She suddenly noticed the small camera, moving closer to inspect it. {“You are recording? Why?”}{“Well, to tell our story. Our heroes have gone through miraculous things, who better to tell the story than I, Coranis Hieronymus Wimbleton Smythe?”} He sat up straight, smirking proudly.{“Of course, Grandfather. How soon can we start? I wish to see the bridge!”}{“If that is what you want, we shall start right away!”}Coran stood; the camera programmed to follow him as they made their way to the bridge.“Hunk, you know I love you and I’m grateful, but these protein shakes, or whatever they are, taste like shit.”“How would you know, Keith? Oh wait, I’m sure you and Lance-”Keith covered Pidge’s mouth and Hunk laughed as they walked past Coran and Linova.Griffen, Kinkade, Rizavi and Leifsdottir came into view, Rizavi shoving Kinkade while Leifsdottir shook her head and Griffen told them to knock it off.Reaching the cafeteria, Coran accepted two trays while Linova sat down. Shiro and Adam were there in a corner, sitting close together. Acxa sat with Veronica at another table, Romelle, Ah’Liah, Lance and Zira were at another talking loudly.Coran and Linova joined them and the camera hovered in front of Alteans.{“Coran, what is that?”} Romelle pointed at the camera.{“Grandfather is writing a story!”}Lance leaned forward, holding onto the spoon of Zira’s food. {“Ah, the Absolutely True Tales of an Incredibly Humble Hero, am I right? I have heard you talking of it.”}{“Yes, well, with our adventures it is only fitting the stories are known. They have made one, what did you call it, TV Show? No doubt they will make more after reading this.”}Lance laughed, passing the spoon over after Zira started to complain.{“I-I think that is a, a wonderful idea, Coran.”}{“Thank you, dear.”} Coran smiled and Linova giggled.They continued to converse for a moment as they ate their breakfast. Coran pulled Linova away, saying it was finally time to see the bridge.The door opened and Coran stopped, letting Linova soak in the sight. Matt, Sam and O’Sem were leaning over a computer and Allura was there, but other than Veronica most of the crew was absent.“If we’re going to the Grei-Aye system, we’ve gotta avoid this section here. Trust me, this nebula is no fun. Sem and I were lost there for days with giant creatures at every corner.”“It’ll be quicker to go right through and we need to get the remains of the Komar before anyone else does.”“It won’t be quicker if we get lost or attacked Dad. Please, trust me on this.”Linova spun in a circle, stopping to beam at Coran yet again. {“This is amazing! The combination of so many peoples, so many different types of technology. Where do you sit? What do you do? Do you run this whole ship?”}{“I sit here.”} He led her over to his area, nodding at Veronica and Allura. {“Queen Allura is in charge of the ship of course, and I am here to push those orders out to specific people. Should she call for the MFE’s, I make sure they are charged and ready. I am the one who keeps this whole ship in order.”}{“About that, Coran, I need you to reach out to the Paladins and make sure they are prepared once we reach the Grei-Aye system. I will need them to secure the Altean Pilot if the canister is still intact.”}Coran moved to his chair, Linova behind him and watching every action as he sent the orders. He walked her around the room, speaking about each station and what they did. Allura gladly spoke of the Atlas, its functions and her role.Next, they found themselves in the engine room where the gravity was turned off for some reason. Sam and Slav hovered in the air while others worked in the background.{“Greetings, Sam. As you may know, this is my granddaughter, Linova. Linova, Sam Holt and Slav, two of our brilliant engineers.”}{“Wonderful! I wish to build something like the Atlas one day, it constantly amazes me. With its size, I must say it is impressive it can get off the ground.”}Sam smiled. “That’s great to hear and yes, I feared the same when I drew it. My child is much like you, though they focus on the technological aspects. Slav, would you just grab the flaxum assembly already?”“I told you, I can’t do that! It’s red!”Sam sighed as a red box floated past Slav. “Is this one of your crazy probability, reality things?”“There is a-”Sam waved his hand, letting Slav figure things out on his own. “Anyway, come here, let me show you the great machine that makes the Atlas work.”They spent forever there, Linova in the chair as Sam pointed things out, teaching her about the Atlas. Coran took a turn as well, describing the recent battle to Sam with large gestures and dramatic words. Slav was there as well, mumbling and rambling in the background.“Okay, now Linova, adjust the gravity generator back down to point twelve.” Sam instructed.{“Alright.”} She pressed a button and suddenly they were floating in zero gravity.“What did you press?”{“I-I do not know. Which one is the two again?”}Coran kicked off from the wall, swimming his way to the console and then they were flattened to the ground, gravity working once more.“I’m laying on a crack!”Coran guided them over to the garden area after that. On the way they passed several Blades, all with serious faces and grim eyes. Inside the gardens there were met with artificial light and garden beds. Several plants were growing, food, flowers and otherwise. Colleen Holt worked there and with her was Nyma.Linova walked right over to one case where a bright pink flower was growing.“Beautiful isn’t it?”{“It, it is a Juniberry. I was told of them, I have never seen one before.”}Coran moved over, settling his hands on her shoulders as they all stared at the flower.{“Indeed, Colleen here, the genius she is, has managed to grow the first one in over a thousand decaphoebs.”}Linova glanced over to smile at the woman. {“Really?”}“Oh yes, but it wasn’t easy. It took lots of work and patience to even get the first one to grow. I managed to make it work by resequencing the genetic code of a similar plant.”Colleen then gave a full tour of the area. “These are our fertilizers. We have fish emulsion, worm castings, Kaltenecker manure. Just so much great recycled shit!”“This is our lighting station. I like to say our lighting array is literally out of this world.” She gave a chuckle. “You know, because we’re, you know, on a spaceship.”Linova forced a smile for Colleen.“Oh, sorry. Am I interrupting something.” Hunk entered the room, apron covering his paladin uniform. “I just, I just came in to see if Colleen had a very specific type of yeast.”{“Oh, what for my boy?”}“It’s for a recipe I’ve been working on. Sorry, can’t tell you, it’s a secret.” He said with a smile, sending a wink to Linova. “I think I’ve got the topping down but I’m still trying to figure out the sweet bread.”Colleen walked Hunk around and they silently left, letting her work that out with Hunk.Coran held up his hand in the hallway, motioning for Linova to peek around the corner. There stood the great Paladins of Voltron, Red and Blue, fighting with a Galra child at their feet.“What is she wearing, what is this?” Keith pointed to the pink bow attached to one of Zira’s spines.{“Keith, amor ma vitae, that is a bow. It is a decoration-”}“I know what it is. What I’m saying, is why the hell is she wearing it? Galra don’t wear bows.”{“She likes it. Who are you to say what she can and cannot wear? Come, Z, tell Keef you like it.”}[“Like it! Like it! Pink bow all pretty.”] Linova let out a giggle and Coran pulled her away before Keith or Lance could discover they were there.Allura could suddenly be heard over comms. {“Attention, all crew to their battle stations, we have reached the Grei-Aye system.}Coran took her to another room, whispering before they entered to hide the camera. It was hidden behind her hands until they sat down. The camera was just above the table where Veronica, Adam, Sam and Coran sat.“Come in Pidge. Are you reading us?”The screen suddenly came to life, showing a green planet and a broken Komar.“We’re here Dad. We’ve just touched down on the surface.”“We’re at the crash site.” Shiro added.In the distance, Allura and Lance were near the Komar, trying to reach the Altean Pilot.“Well, it looks disabled like our intel reported.” Hunk said.Suddenly the head of the Komar flew off, circling around to attack. Coran shouted a warning and the Paladins were on the move.“Never mind! Not disabled, definitely not disabled!”“I didn’t know it could do that!” Keith almost sounded impressed.“Take cover!" Shiro ordered.Pidge’s camera went dark moments before they heard Lance screaming. Coran stood, trying to fix the feed while he called for them.{“Paladins, report! We have lost visual. Curtis, lock onto that ship now!”}“Yes sir. Adjusting to long-range parameters.”The video came back, showing Hunk firing at the Komar head with his bayard. Pidge was there as well, though their smaller gun didn’t seem to do much.“Locked on.”{“Fire!”}An orange beam shot past, hitting the Komar head.“Direct hit!{“Nice shot Coran!”} Lance smiled.“Yeah, thanks for the cover, Atlas.” Shiro said.{“Coran, we have found another Pilot.”} Allura gestured to a long tube and it opened, revealing an unconscious Altean.Coran took her around for another walk, showing her the training deck and weapons room. Afterward, they stopped again, this time seeing Lance and Allura at the other end of the hall.{“Ro and I were unsuccessful working with the last Altean. I do not know what to do, he truly believes in Haggar’s lies, he will not listen.”}{“I’m sorry, Lura.”}{“I-I feel like a fake. I call myself Queen of Altea and yet, I do not have a people to serve. They are my people but they will not let me help them.”}{“You are not a fake, Lura. You are Queen by blood and by actions, and I know that eventually, they will see. I believe in you, Romelle and Liah do as well. You will pull through, we always have.”}They embrace and Lance whispers something they can’t hear, but Allura pulls away laughing.{“Yes, because having you in the room will change everything. I must go, they will need me on the bridge. Tell Zira I loved her bow.”}They were standing before the Voltron Lions when there was a loud banging sound above them. Coran gestured and she followed, chasing after him.By the time they got to the next level, Shiro was there scolding the Paladins. Lance was smirking, Keith was glaring at Lance, Hunk was wringing his hands while Pidge looked ready to laugh.“What did I say about doing dares?”{“Not to give them for Keith will do any dare to prove himself.”}“And what have I told you, Keith?”“Not to take the dares because Lance just wants me to make a fool of myself.”“And why didn’t you two do anything?”“We tried Shiro, we did! But Lance said Keith could fit through and then before-”“It was fucking funny, that’s why.”Shiro covered his forehead and let out a sigh. “Children. I’m working with, children.”Corna walked Linova to her room, kissing her forehead and saying goodnight. Once more he sat in the chair, posing.{“And there you have it, the life of a hero when not fighting monstrous beasts and saving millions of people. Coranis Hieronymus Winbleton Smythe, here to protect, save, serve and teach.”}The camera was then turned off.

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Allura pushed all efforts into finding Haggar, but it wasn’t that easy. They responded to distress signals, found Komars and liberated planets but once again, Haggar had vanished.With Allura spending more time with the Altean pilots, Coran often took over the bridge, standing in for her.“Sir, I’m picking up an abnormal signal from planet Swatheer in the zeta-three sector.” Curtis said.“Open a hailing frequency. Let us find out what is going on.”“Copy, ready sir.”{“This is Coranis Hieronymus Winbleton Smythe, temporary Ca-”}|”Well, if it isn’t the Voltron Coalition.”| The screen changed, and Coran groaned, recognizing the man on the screen. |”And here I was thinking you were afraid to show your face after ruining the last Clear Day.”|Long ago, Coran had a long scolding by this very Swalian for missing a Clear Day. Coran had been under a lot of pressure then, it hadn’t been a great experience. Honestly, he was truly hoping to never see Minister Burr.|”Yes, forgive me, that was an unfortunate accident. How can we help you now? We noticed quite a lot of activity on your wonderful planet’s surface. Is everything alright?”||”Oh yes! We’re celebrating Clear Day!”||”Pardon me, but is it not, four movements from now?”||”Time dilation, you snarflaf!”| Coran was surprised by the curse, he wasn’t sure if he deserved it. |”It’s right now! So unless you’d like to waste more of my time, I need to get back.”||”Oh no, we do not wish to bother. Excuse me, but are you positive celebrating such a large and loud festival is safe? This sector has seen quite a bit of hostile activity lately.”|Burr rolled his eyes and sighed. |”Here we go. I knew this was coming. In fact, I just told my wife. I said to her, ‘Just you wait, you don’t know them the way I do. They promise to show up, you tell everyone that Voltron is coming to Clear Day. Everyone gets excited. Then Voltron never arrives and your left with your top two paws stuck in the rocks!”|Oh, but he deserved the scolding, that made sense.|”We are not here to ruin your wonderful celebration but we are concern-”||”We’re having Clear Day and that is that! If you’re so worried about our safety, then how about you show up and provide security? Free of charge!”|Burr cut off the transmission and Coran was scared to decline the offer. It sounded like a suggestion, but he knew it was anything but that. They had no choice, they were going to Swatheer.“Uh, Veronica dear, make an announcement. We, we are going to celebrate Clear Day.”They changed course, aiming for the planet and it was bursting with life. After checking once more that there were no pirates in the area or warlords, Coran allowed the team to leave. A crew would stay, Curtis taking the bridge while they all took shuttles down to the surface.Linova was jumping by his side, though Coran couldn’t help but think of Allura. She had asked to stay behind to rest and Coran was not going to force her back to work, but he wished she could come with them. He wished Allura could experience the joy of a child like Linova again.The Paladins took the Lions, leading them down to the surface. They landed, the bright lights of the festival drawing the crew forward. Linova ran ahead, joining the Paladins while Coran passed out tokens to chiefs and officers. Yes, this was a mission, but he agreed with Shiro, this was a time for fun.Coran found the Paladins, passing out coins to them all. {“I pulled some strings and got each of you ten complimentary tokens. Use them for games, foods, rides, the choice is yours.”}“Well, let’s remember why we came here in the first place: to make sure nothing happens with the violence in the sector. We’re not here for games, we’re the security.”Coran looked down at Linova who was already playing with the tokens.“Right.” Pidge said slowly. “Well, I better go find the arcade and make sure it’s safe, yeah.” Pidge ran away without looking back.{“I have things to find!”} Lance gave Keith a kiss before skipping away.“I’ll go make sure things are safe with Pidge!” Hunk vanished.Coran was only acting captain and he had his granddaughter here, there was no way he was going to patrol with Shiro or Keith.{“Uh, I will see you later!”} He pulled on Linova’s hand, dragging her away before Keith could argue.She went first toward one of the food carts, eating a candied fruit while they walked through the carnival. They found Pidge and Hunk later on near a booth full of new tech, almost everything powered by small Balmera crystals.“You see, when you insert the crystal just right, you have the poles on either end that draw out energy. It’s amazing, how they’ve made items that can use the energy.” Hunk said proudly.{“I find it amazing how it will change things. For now, they power up toys but the future could be entirely different because of a small object like this. It is fascinating! I wonder if...”}Linova was just like Pidge and Hunk, all three ready to learn something new. She seemed to follow Hunk’s path a bit more, excited over making new things rather than the coding of computers. Pidge didn’t seem to mind and they spent quite some time talking before they moved on to look at other games.There was a terrible game where one had to hit a small Coran’s head and another where when you hit a small button, a rock was sent forward to hit a Coran in the groin.Coran was suddenly not so sure about this carnival.Instead, he pulled Linova out from the tents and toward an open area where, if he wasn’t mistaken, people were making Yalmor shouts. Coran rushed forward, telling Linova to watch him work his magic before signing up.Once that was finished, he stood back, watching as several people gave their shouts. The line moved and right in front of him was a yellow Swalian. They took their turn, standing on the stage before three judges, shouting their dear little heart out just like a Yalmor would. The three gave some great numbers and the host moved the Swalian off the stage.|”Nice job, Glurry. Very respectable scores. Not bad at all. Now, for our next contestant in the Yalmor calling competition, please welcome, Corin!”|He moved forward, sending a wink in Linova’s direction before closing his eyes and centering himself. It was time for him to do what his Pop-Pop taught him to do all those decaphoebs ago.Coran opened his eyes and stepped forward strongly. He sucked in a deep breath, filling his lungs before letting out a Yalmor call that would bring tears to his grandfather’s eyes.The crowd below him cheered as did Linova, though she seemed slightly concerned. Young Alteans these days, Coran would have to teach her to call once they were done with this.Coran proudly moved up the ranks, getting high enough scores to move on past his fellow callers. Linova started to really get into it, jumping every time he was on stage and shouting his name. Altean marks glowing bright, she seemed a star of her own.Coran was doing this for her, to teach her how to be proud and how to be Altean. This was his family cheering his name and Coran was going to win this competition.|”Ladies and burrowmen, this is it! Only two remain in the Yalmor calling competition. Who will be our champion?”| The host shouted before leaving the stage.Next to him was a purple Swalian and Coran was ready for this moment. The other went first, calling loudly into the mic a call that was just astounding. The audience cheered and she was a worthy opponent.{“She’d done a twist on the Flogarian technique.”} He muttered to himself.|”Wow! A blagmore and two durgises. That score is gonna be hard to beat.”| The host commented.She got a great score, respectable and it was quite the challenge. But Coran was not afraid. His granddaughter was in the audience and he would not lose.Coran stomped his feet, bending his knees and getting close to the ground. He breathed in, more air than he ever had before and then, he said his call. Every note, every hand motion and every trill was perfect, it was as if he was possessed by his Pop-Pop.He finished out of breath, looking up and smiling at Linova. The crowd was cheering but he hoped this was as special for Linova as it was for him.He taught his children how to call, teaching them the very sounds he just made. Obviously, it wasn’t something they had passed down, but Coran didn’t mind.In doing this, Linova felt more like a daughter than a distant relative. And Coran wasn’t so alone anymore.|”Three blagmores!”| The call interrupted his thoughts and he faced the host. |”The top prize for the best squoozle of the day goes to, Corm-man!”|Coran pulled Linova onto the stage, the two of them holding the large golden trophy, together.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Hearing that one of the Alteans wanted to talk to her was a surprise. Romelle said she had a plan to get them to open up, but she wasn’t sure if it would even work. Well, now she owed Ro a dinner and honestly, she’d missed the other Altean.Romelle was like a breath of fresh air, clean and pure. Lately, all Allura felt was stress, wishing she could find Haggar and that she had done the battle differently. Unknowingly, she’d pushed Romelle away with everyone else, but she was tired of being alone.The interview was arranged and Allura wasn’t sure if she could be hopeful or not. Sam and O’Sem stood behind the glass while Tavo sat on the other side of the table, twitching and fidgeting.{“Tavo, I want to thank you for speaking with me.”}{“Forgive me, Queen Alluradell, but we do not have much time.”}{“I do not understand?”}{“Listen to me. She has only just started, she has plans, terrible, terrible plans. You cannot just attack blindly, Hanerva is-”}Tavo’s eyes suddenly rolled, and he started to scream, holding his head. Allura ran around the table, catching his head as he fell out of his chair. The door opened as well and two doctors ran into the room.Allura felt for his pulse and after finding it, she relaxed. Then she heard it, a whisper, a hissing sound, an unsung song. She closed her eyes and reached out, unsure of what she was even reaching for. Fueling White’s power, she held her hands over him and pulled.She opened her eyes just in time, watching as a dark red and purple form was forced out of Tavo. It hovered before it began to attack, zooming around and filling the room with magenta smoke. Allura shifted her form to be a bit stronger and threw Tavo onto her back. She ushered the others out of the room, trapping the dark alien inside.They found Romelle in the medical bay, passing Tavo over to her before finding Sam. He met her in front of the interrogation room, pulling her toward another.The creature flew around sporadically, hitting the sides of the glass before going still for a tick. She’d never seen anything like it, the creature was, interesting. Allura couldn’t take her eyes off of it, the whisper was loud and clear now, though she couldn’t understand it. She wanted to, understand the creature that is.“This unit uses the ship’s crystal to energize the optronic vacuum casing. It was designed to contain diseases, but it should suffice until we find a more permanent solution.”{“Thank you, Sam. This thing, it is as if it was communicating with me. Whatever this is, it might be how Haggar connects to the Alteans.”}She’d felt the darker energy around the Alteans, but she had thought it was from the Komar and the sheer amount of Quintessence they were surrounded by. She had never dreamed it was coming from a creature planted in all of them.“Perhaps, you should get some rest. It's best if everyone stays away from this until we learn more abo...”Sam’s voice disappeared and all Allura could see and hear was the song of the creature. It was alluring, soft and sweet with spikes that kept her interested. The song was special, something she’d never heard before. Not only that, but somehow she knew, the song was just for her.Such a shame the glass was keeping her from it.“Allura?”She stepped back, looking over at the man.{“You, you are right, Sam. Best for everyone to stay away. Yes, that is for the best. Will you tell Coran, I think I shall lay down as well.”}Sam nodded and she left, going to the room she shared with the other girls. Coran had been given his own, but he was never far away. Many nights he visited, him or Linova or Lance with Keith and Zira. This time the room was empty and even though she was tired, she knew she wouldn’t be able to sleep.It was only moments later that there was a knock on her bedroom door and she called for the person to come in. Romelle entered, hands behind her back and a bright grin on her face.{“You will be happy to hear that Tavo is well. He will need rest for a while, but he will make a full recovery.”}{“Wonderful, thank you, Ro. That is good to hear.”}{“I am sure you have heard that we are going to the Clear Day celebration? Do you want to, would you want to go with me?”}{“Yes.”} She stood from the bed, but stopped. {“But, I am tired. This is strange to say, but I wish to have a break. Forgive me, Ro, I do want to go. With you. But especially after what happened with Tavo, I need to rest.”}{“Well, then I have a gift for you.”}Allura shook her head and smiled. {“You need not give me anything, I am fine, Ro.”}Instead of saying anything, Romelle moved her arms and Allura gasped. In her hands was a Junibery, a small flower, blooming before her eyes.{“Is that, Ro, is that truly...?”}{“Colleen wished to grow the flower and when she finished, I asked if I could take it and bring it to you. Do, do you like it?”}Allura accepted the plant, gently brushing the petal and it wasn't a hologram. It was real, growing right before her, living even though the universe was fighting against it. The first Junibery grown in over a thousand decaphoebs.She gently set it down before lunging at Romelle, pulling her into a hug. Romelle melted in the embrace as Allura clung to her.{“I love it, I truly, truly do.”} Allura said through her tears. {“Thank you, Ro, thank you, so much.”}They held each other for a while and Allura realized how scared she was to let go. Romelle was a summer breeze, Allura didn’t want to lose Romelle like she’d lost so many others.Still, they pulled apart, and Allura reached for her hands, holding tightly to Romelle. {“I can never thank you enough, Ro, truly. I, I never thought I would see a Junibery again, this is, a miracle.”}{“It is nothing but a gift, do not fret. It was my pleasure to give it.”}Allura had nothing to say so she pulled Romelle close again, breathing in the fresh air.{“Lura! We are going shopping!”} The door suddenly opened and they looked over with wide eyes at Lance’s entrance.{“Oh, do not mind me, go back to whatever you were doing just now.”}Ro’s face was bright red and Allura knew her face was flushed as well. She smiled, not letting go of Romelle’s hand but didn’t say anything more.{“What do you need, Lance?”}{“Well, we are going to a Swatheer carnival and I wanted to go, but if you are busy, I understand. “}{“I am not feeling too well, forgive me, Lance. But you have fun with the others.”}{“Are you sure? I’m pretty sure the Swathian Meerakeet will not try to eat.”}She laughed but shook her head. {“I am sure, Lance, go have fun.”}He kissed her cheek before leaving, though he did send one last week to them. Allura rolled her eyes and closed the door, alone with Romelle again.{“You must go as well, I do not want you to be left behind.”}{“I could stay here with you, keep you company if you want?”}{“No dear, go have fun. In fact, I have something to ask. Maybe, you could win something for me? You and Lance can bring the carnival to me.”}Romelle perked up, smiling again. {“I shall bring you the prettiest, sparklyest, wonderfulest thing I can find. I shall see you soon Queenie.”}Romelle gently kissed her cheek before leaving and this time when Allura laid down, she had a smile on her face.There were still things they had to work out, but maybe it wouldn’t be so bad with someone like Romelle at her side. Romelle was like the sun, constant, full of light, and necessary.Allura rolled over, staring at the junibery as she cuddled under the covers. Next to it was the hologram of Altea she was given for the Earth Christmas by Lance along with the family picture done by Pidge. She closed her eyes and breathed easy; all was well in the world.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

They were on a mission to save the universe, to liberate and fight. Voltron was a warrior, and the Paladins were all fighters. Keith was a Blade of Marmora, a Paladin, a soldier.They were going down to a planet to, observe a carnival.This was really not the proper use for a giant war machine with magical, sentient Lions.The all-clear signal was sent out and Red went down to the surface, following Black. Shiro talked through the comms moments later.“The celebration ends in five vargas, it’s important to remember that while the Atlas patrols the skies. We are the eyes and ears on the ground looking for any suspicious activity but I want you all to enjoy yourselves today as well.”Voltron landed and a group had formed near them. Red purred under the attention, standing tall with her chin up. The shuttles with the other crew members landed as well and Keith left Red, bayard in hand and all suited up.The sky was clear, a million stars shining above them while fireworks boomed in the distance. Even from where they had landed, Keith could see the bright lights of the carnival. Several different races moved around, talking in Galran and celebrating like all was right in the universe.They all gathered together and Coran joined them, passing out handfuls of coins.{“I pulled some strings and got each of you ten complimentary tokens. Use them for games, foods, rides, the choice is yours.”}“Well, let’s remember why we came here in the first place: to make sure nothing happens with the violence in the sector. We’re not here for games, we’re the security.” Keith crossed his arms, staring down the other Paladins.“Right. Well, I better go find the arcade and make sure it’s safe, yeah.” Pidge ran away without looking back.{“I have things to find!”} Lance gave Keith a kiss before skipping away.“I’ll go make sure things are safe with Pidge!” Hunk vanished.{“Uh, I will see you later!”} Coran pulled on Linova, dragging her away.Shiro put his hand on Keith’s shoulder and he was quite proud to say he didn’t flinch. “Keith, relax. Go have fun. Krolia has Zira, why don’t you go walk around with her?”“I thought you said we were here for protection. If not, then why are we here?”“Honestly, I think Coran can tell the morale on the Atlas is low after what happened on Oriande. We’ve all been pretending to be okay, it’s good for us all to relax for a moment. Come, since Zira’s taken care of, why don’t you walk with Adam and I?”Keith agreed, only because he liked spending time with Adam. But he kept his bayard at the ready, eyes scanning the crowd.They’d talked a few times since reuniting, but it was superficial. Asking if the other was okay, how they were doing, things like that.Honestly, Keith was avoiding the conversation. He didn’t want to know how disappointed Adam was in him. He’d ran away in the middle of the day without a word and then wasn’t seen for years. Adam was going to be mad and Keith wasn’t ready for that.To his surprise, the conversation was, nice. Not what he was expecting and Adam was still as annoying as ever, but Keith walked away with a smile.He found Kosmo, Krolia, Acxa, Veronica and Zira moments later, Zira with stars in her eyes while Krolia carried Zira on her hip. Kosmo welcomed Keith and he bent down, ruffling his fur as he smiled at Zira.[“You know she can walk, Ma, you don’t have to carry her everywhere.”][“She asked for me to carry her.”] Krolia said, as if it was impossible to say no to the girl.Oh, poor Zira, she was going to be spoiled by her family. Lance and the Alteans already doted on her like she was the greatest thing in the world. Honestly, Keith couldn’t argue. She was so pure, too good for the world.Upon hearing him, Zira turned, opening and closing her fists to silently call for him. Keith answered, like he always would, putting her on his hip[“Hello dear. Did you have fun with Amama, Aki’Acxa and Veronica? Look at you, a child and already doing patrols.”][“Brigh’ lights! An thousan’ stars, Keef! An, an, candy! An bish!”][“Oh, so Amama gave you sweets even though it’s near your bedtime? You know that is against the rules, right?”] Zira nodded brightly.Well, it was Lance’s turn for bed tonight, he could deal with it later.[“Just don’t tell Lany, okay?”]She giggled, holding a finger up to her lips before wiggling. Keith put her down, holding tightly to her hand.[“You’re disgustingly soft.”] Acxa commented, as if she didn’t smile at the toddler.Keith slipped her the finger when Krolia wasn’t looking.[“Have you guys seen anything worth reporting?”][“No, Keithir. It’s very much like an ordinary carnival but Acxa and I will continue to do our rounds. Nothing will happen, don’t worry.”]He nodded before waving, Zira sadly saying goodbye as well. With Kosmo and Zira at his side, he continued to walk around, talking to several natives and other visitors.Zira got it down perfectly, crossing her arms and narrowing her eyes whenever Keith stopped someone. Of course, then she'd look up for approval, a grin on her face. Keith would nod before going back to the questions, eyes serious.|”Look, guys, I just wanna know if you’ve seen anything suspicious.”||”Well, there is one weirdo who’s going around and bothering people about if they’ve seen anything suspicious.”|See, Keith knew something like this was going to happen!|”That’s a great start. Did you get a good look at...”| Keith stopped, realizing the two Swalians were talking about him. |”It’s me, isn’t it?”|The Swalians laughed as they left and Keith glared at their back. He looked down, proud to see that Zira had done the glare as well.After that, he let Zira lead, pointing out all the bright lights, fishies, Corans and more. She had this strange obsession with fish, he really had no idea where it came from. Still, he was forced to win a game, passing over a golden fish which she clung to tightly.Zira then ran over to something new, a large figure that looked like a snake or something.[“Bishy! Bishy!"]Unfortunately for her, she really couldn’t say the ‘F’ sounds. Most of the time it sounded like she was saying bishy instead.[“I don’t think that’s a fish, Zira. See the tongue, it’s slitted so I would assume it is a snake, not a fish. Sorry.”]She just hummed, sadly patting the side of the figure. [“Forgive you, Not-Bishy.”]“Hey, Keith!” He looked up, finding Hunk waving at him. “Whatcha doing?”“Trying to get some answers but no one will-”|”Next!”| Keith turned around, surprised to see and Unilu looking right at him. |”Come on! You’re holding the line up! Let’s go!”||”The line? Line for what?”|The Unilu pointed and for some reason, a giant line of people had formed behind them. The snake mouth figures were a ride of sorts, and Keith was in line. The people then began to complain, many telling him to hurry up and move along.Keith held onto Zira as they and Hunk were pushed into the snake mouth. The bar was pushed down, locking them in and there was no chance for escape. Kosmo watched sadly, tapping his feet when the Unilu didn’t let him on because of his size.|”Wait, wait, wait! We didn’t know it was a line.”||”Oh, no. Oh, no! You don’t understand, I can’t do this. I don’t do rides.”| Hunk tried to explain.|”Who cares. Keep your hands, feet and limbs in the mouth at all times. You use ‘em, you lose ‘em. Have a blissfully burrowful time.”| The Unilu said in a flat voice.The snake moved forward and Keith hung his head. Until he looked over to see Zira with a wide grin.[“In bishy’s mouth! Is silly, Keef.”][“Yes, this is a large mouth for a fish, huh?”] Maybe he could do this, for Zira, of course.The mouth at the end of the tunnel opened and to Keith’s ultimate horror, the Swalian figures began to sing. Hunk smiled as well, sharing an excited look with Zira.|”We burrow every day, underground is where we stay, waiting for the time to say Clear Day, Clear Day! Clear Day, Clear Day, Clear Day!”|[“Is singing, Keef! Singing!”] Zira laughed, bobbing her head and wiggling her body to the tune.“Isn’t this awesome?”Keith was a little worried about Hunk definition of awesome.|”What do we say? Clear Day, Clear Day, Clear Day!”|[“Ker Day, Ker Day, Ker Day!”]Then, the Snake Mouth stopped moving, they were frozen on the tracks. Keith looked around to see no end in sight to the ride.|”Sorry for the inconvenience. We’ll get this thing up and running in a tick. In the mean time, stay in your burrow buggy. And remember, have a blissfully burrowful time.”||”What do we say? Clear Day, Clear Day, Clear Day! What do we say? Clear Day, Clear Day, Clear Day! What do we say? Clear Day, Clear Day, Clear Day!”|The song kept playing and though Zira and Hunk looked like they were having fun, Keith let out a groan. He had to get out of here.Now.What felt like hours later, Zira and Hunk were still singing along and they were still stuck. She was content, watching the Swalians dance and sing, her little feet swinging to the beat almost. Hunk was dancing, nodding his head as he sang with her and they kept giggling at each other like this was still entertaining. Even though there were only two verses and it kept repeating, Zira was happy.Keith felt like dying.He loved Zira already, she was a part of him and Lance and he would do anything, anything for her.But not this.Keith swung out with his bayard, cutting through the pole that kept them captive. He pulled on Zira, who laughed as if this was part of the ride.[“Come on baby, we’re getting out of here!”][“Bye bye bishy!”] Zira waved over his shoulder.“Keith! What are you doing?” Hunk tried to keep up.They ran toward the exit and once they were back under the glow of the carnival lights, he stopped and let out a laugh laugh.[“Yeah! We made it bitches!”] Keith pumped his fist and Zira copied the motion.[“Bitchy!”]Turns, out, Zira can say ‘T’ sounds just fine.

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Lance skipped toward Allura’s room, brimming with delight. He’d heard about the Swatheer celebration and with the Voltron Show, he’d been excited to see what they did. Of course, that didn’t go so well, but they finally had a chance again.It would be wonderful to go with the whole group or with Keith and Zira, but Lura had been so down lately. the Altean Pilots were bringing her down and Lance knew this was just what she needed to smile again.Lance entered the apartment, bursting through Allura’s door.{“Lura! We are going shopping!”}Lance froze, seeing Romelle and Allura holding hands and staring into each other's eyes. Well, until he ruined the romantic moment. He smirked, seeing that someone else was going to make Allura smile instead.{“Oh, do not mind me, go back to whatever you were doing just now.”}Romelle and Allura had matching red faces but he was pleased that Allura didn’t let go of Romelle’s hand.{“What do you need, Lance?”}{“Well, we are going to a Swatheer carnival and I wanted to go, but if you are busy, I understand. “}{“I am not feeling too well, forgive me, Lance. But you have fun with the others.”}{“Are you sure? I’m pretty sure the Swathian Meerakeet will not try to eat.”}She laughed but shook her head. {“I am sure, Lance, go have fun.”}Lance kissed her cheek and gave her one last wink before leaving. He’d seen the signs Romelle had been sending his sister’s way and he was all for Allura living once more. Romelle would be good for her.That being said, if Allura couldn’t go to the carnival, Lance could just bring it to her.Lance was loving this. Keith was all serious, but he was sure that Keith would cheer up eventually. While Keith loosened up, Lance was on a mission to find something perfect for his sister.After the arcade, he found Romelle and Liah wandering around and Lance joined her. After all, they couldn’t buy the same thing for Allura, might as well work together.Lanc stopped, watching as an Unilu shopkeeper gave out a purple lion that looked like it should have belonged to Voltron. He couldn’t help himself, interested in the lion though it was wrong.|”Excuse me, but you do know that Voltron does not have a purple lion, yes?”||”Wanna play?”| The Unilu moved on. |”All you gotta do is throw one of these rings onto one of them sticks. Win one for your special someone?”|He held up several rings that were quite large before gesturing to the pegs a short distance away. And well, Zira loved the color purple and the Voltron Lions. Lance smirked at the girls; this would be easy for the Sharpshooter of Voltron.|”Might as well, how much?”||”A token each round.”|Lance passed them over but in return he got three rings that were obviously smaller than the ones he held up. Lance stared, Romelle unimpressed as well.|”These, these are not the right size.”||”Oh, no, friend. They just look smaller in your strong, masculine hands.”|Well, that was a load of vitascree. As if a ring would look that much smaller in his hands versus the Unilu’s. He already paid, he might as well play, but he wasn’t impressed.Lance tossed the three rings, all of which missed their marks. He rolled his eyes, but Romelle seemed determined.{“You are the shortshooter-”}{“Sharpshooter.”}{“-sharpshooter, Lance, you can make it!”}He paid twice more and finally, on the last time he made it, walking away with a small purple lion.{“Now then, Romelle, what shall we get for my sister?”}{“Oh, I told her something shiny and pretty. We shall start there.”}They wandered for a while, both silent before Lance finally spoke up. He had nothing but positive feelings for Romelle but he had to make sure about the Altean. There were people that looked only upon the crown, he knew from experience. He wouldn’t let Lura go through the same thing.While Liah was on the other side, looking at some prizes, Lance pulled Romelle aside.{“You care for her, my sister.”}Romelle stopped, twisting her hands in her skirt. {“Yes, Prince, I truly do. I-I know I am not a royal but I promise I shall treat her-”}{“Treat her like she is not royalty.”} Lance finished and Romelle tilted her head. {“Romelle, being a royal is not always all that grand. Yes, the adoration, the fans, the parties are wonderful and I certainly like them. But, there is nothing like falling for someone only to find they only cared for the title, not the person. It is a betrayal like none other, a feeling I refuse to let my sister feel.”}{“Oh, I see. This, this has happened?”}He sighed, but it wasn’t like he could stop now. {“There was someone, a girl I liked very much. She confessed and I agreed, thinking nothing of it. Until, until she found out that I would not be in line for a very, very long time. She left that very night, saying she could not care for someone so low. I am Fourth Prince, should all my siblings have lived and had children, I never would have seen the crown.”}{“Goodness, that is terrible.”}{“So you understand why I must ask about your feelings. I trust you with my daughter, but I must make sure Allura is safe as well.”}Romelle paused, face pleasant as she tried to find the right words to say.{“I do not deserve her. And it is not because of her crown.”} Romelle hurried to say and Lance gave her time to finish talking. {“It is because of who she is. She is strong and wise and willing to admit when she is wrong. Most of the time. She is determined and her smile is brighter than a thousand suns and her laughter could be the only sound I will ever here and I would not be upset. But most of all, she makes me feel seen.{“I have been happy to care for others, it is what I have most of my life. When my parents were selected, I took care of my brother, Bandor. When he was, taken, I started to help Aria with the Dellra. Helping is what I do, and I do not mind. But Allura sees me, thanks me for my work and tells me to rest. She does not need me, but it seems like she wants to spend time with me. It is nice, being needed for who I am and not what I can do.”}Lance remembered the day Allura was paired, how she was dressed, and how Tyrella treated Allura fairly. There was nothing wrong with them as a couple and Mayvera was the sweetest thing he’d ever seen. They were a good family, but they were never right.There was a distance between them, a wall Allura built that kept them apart just enough for some to notice. He saw the forced smiles and the fake laughter. They cared for each other, maybe even loved, but they weren’t right.He’d seen Romelle with Allura and that distance wasn’t there. They smiled freely and it was like Allura didn’t have a crown weighing her down.Hearing Romelle’s words was all he needed.{“Then, should Allura return your feelings, which I am sure she does, I wish you a happy life together.”}Romelle jumped on him, hugging him tightly and he returned the gesture.{“Now then, shall we find something sparkly?”} He asked once Romelle was on the ground again.Lance stopped them at a jewelry shop which made Romelle’s face flush. Liah smirked, leaning in close and pointing out some earrings but Romelle shook her hands quickly.{“I cannot be so forward! We are barely courting, I cannot do an earring now!”}Liah laughed and Romelle pushed her a little. Lance joined in and Romelle continued to pout, saying she was going to shop somewhere far away from them.Which left Lance with Liah.They'd spent some time together, talking over meals and that sort of thing. Honestly, he wasn’t sure how to act, he didn’t feel like an uncle to her and she was nearly the same age as him.{“What have you found for our sleeping princess?”} Lance asked, hoping it was a good casual opening.{“Mo-mother carries around this chain of stars, and, and whenever she was upset, she would hold it-it close to her heart. They were for you, weren’t they?”}Lance stopped walking and pulled out his own paper stars to show off.{“You know of the others now, Zandar, Helga, Gran, and Dhanny. But I-”} The words got stuck in his throat and he looked down at the purple lion.Feru would always be his, sharing Feru’s story with Keith hadn’t changed that and it wouldn’t change after telling Liah. Still, it wasn’t the easiest thing to talk about.{“I, uh, I had a twin brother. Ferukis. He died when we were children, before Aria was born. We wanted her to know of her big brother, Feru would have loved her. So, we made these stars, each with our own colors so we’d all carry each other close. I-I didn’t know she still had it.”}{“Then, is-is this not a gift I-I should give?”} Liah held out her hand, showing off a bracelet with several shining purple gems. {“Mother said the purple st-star was for her, it-it's her favorite. And I have, have five siblings.”}That explained the bracelet then. Pressed into the metal were seven purple stones in the middle of the chain. With this, Allura would have Aria’s entire family on her wrist and Lance swallowed down his tears.{“I, uh, think she will love it, Liah.”}Romelle then came bouncing back, holding up a beautiful necklace. With everything Voltron themed, it wasn’t a surprise that there were some shaped like the Lions of Voltron. Romelle had found one like Blue with a simple design, but small white gems for the eyes.{“I have found my gift!”}Lance had eventually decided on a small pink crystal, something she could put next to the family picture in remembrance. If that wasn’t something she wanted, he got her a blue lion stuffed animal she could set on her desk instead.They found Keith later and upon seeing them, Zira ran for them. Lance bent down to pick her up, showing off the lion he had got her.She held it tightly, along with a golden fish Keith must have gotten her. She then began to talk about this crazy thing that absolutely happened to them. As if there was a fish large enough for her and Keith to sit in.Still, he smiled and nodded, thankfully that her tears were dry now and all she did was smile.They may have lost Haggar and yes, it was a blow that was hard to move forward from. But every quintant that Zira smiled was a quintant Lance counted as a success.

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Hunk was so ready for the carnival. He’d been doing what he could to bring smiles to the team, giving out favorite meals, sitting down for movies and games and all sorts of things. But nothing was quite like going to a carnival.He wished his family was here.They’d been given the option to join the Atlas as a civilian, to work and help the crew. Mama turned them down, and Hunk understood. He was glad that they weren’t in danger all the time, and Papa talked all the time about how he was going to fix up Hunk’s childhood home.Still, he wished they could see this. The bright lights, the joy, the laughter. The new Voltron show was great at showing the battles they went through, but it didn’t quite capture the magic of the universe. The stars, the planets, the nebulas they had seen.He wished they could see the universe he wanted to remember. Full of moments like this, where the war wasn’t really a thing.He wished Shay was here.After getting the tokens from Coran, the three of them ran toward the arcade full of smiles. The area was full of loud noises and colorful signs and Hunk was going to do what he could to try them all.[“I’m Coran, Coran, the non-truth telling man.”] The game sang out while Pidge started to swing. [“Pick up that mallet and bomp me on the cranker before I can tell you a lie.”]Hunk knew Pidge had violence in them, he’d held items out of their reach and felt their claws. Still, seeing them swing and aim for Coran’s head with a mallet was slightly unsettling. The smile on their face really wasn’t helping.[“Bomp me enough times and you’ll win a great prize!”]Pidge continued to hit Coran and orange tickets were spat out of the machine.Hunk moved over, sitting down with Lance to start a racing game. They both laughed, adjusting quickly to the controls. Lance pulled through at the very end, standing up with a cheer. They found another where you threw a ball that was shaped like Coran’s head toward three holes and then Hunk won a game that sent a puck toward Coran’s, uh, private parts.While the attack on Coran wasn’t all that great, it was nice to relax with Pidge and Lance once again.Eventually Lance pulled away, saying he had to go shopping and Hunk began to wander around with Pidge. Hunk moved them over to the many food stalls, smelling all the wonderful food.Oh, he would need to learn how to cook each of these ASAP.They found themselves near a cart where Balmeran artifacts were being traded away, Coran and Linova were there as well. While they talked about the mechanics of Balmeran crystals, Hunk found his thoughts drifting.As soon as he was able, he had sent a message through Matt to Shay. Matt had said that the Balmera had been bombed several times and they soon lost contact, the whole planet disappearing off their scanners. Still, Matt passed the message to his friends, everyone looking for Shay.Hunk needed her to be alright.Fighting for Earth was a great distraction, keeping him focused on his family and nothing more. He couldn’t worry about Shay because his family were prisoners.Then, they finished and all Hunk could think about was Shay. Was she alright? What had happened to Balmera? Was her family alive? Were they okay? Why wasn’t she responding?Matt gave a simple answer, Shay was alive and she’d find him later.Coran and Linova left and they continued to walk, but it wasn’t silent this time.“So, have you heard from Shay yet?”“No.”Hunk continued walking, looking for a green popsicle thing that was actually soft like bread. How interesting, why would it be on a stick then? Maybe he could just ask-“Hunk.” He turned, seeing Pidge with their hands on their hips. “You know you can talk to me right? I mean, yeah, emotions are shitty and all that but you were there for me with Dad and Matt. I mean, while I was on Olkarion, you stayed with me even though you didn’t have to. Let me do the same.”Hunk moved them toward another part of the carnival, a bench facing a park-like area where several children were playing. He leaned on his elbows, playing with his thumbs while Pidge sat there patiently.Hunk wasn’t afraid of his emotions, he lived fully and truthfully.This time though, he was scared that saying what he felt out loud would make them real. He wanted to pretend that Shay was just busy, that everything was fine.Instead, he pulled out the Balmeran crystal he’d been shaping for months, showing the nearly heart-shaped gem to Pidge.Pidge took the stone gently, rolling it in between their fingers. “It’s beautiful, Hunk.”“There’s a Balmeran tradition for Shay’s people. You trade crystals at the beginning of the relationship, saying you wish to be together eventually. Once the crystals are shaped just right, smoothed and polished, the couple is ready for marriage. It’s supposed to take months, showing how the relationship has changed as well.“I’ve been working on this for months, slowly when I can but I don’t, I don’t know if I’ll ever get the chance to exchange them with Shay again. She’s gone silent, the whole planet in hiding because of the warlords that were attacking. I haven’t heard or seen her since we lost those years traveling.”“I’m sure she’s fine. I mean, she’s strong as hell and powerful. All of the Balmerans are, they wouldn’t, they’re gonna be fine.”Hunk turned to them, suddenly unable to stop his mouth. “But what if they aren’t? What if they’re mad at me because they were attacked? What if they blame me and Quin and Kera don’t bless our relationship? What if Shay is mad at me, thinking I ditched her? What if they’re, what if they’re all dead and I don’t know it because-”Pidge settled their hands on his shoulders and slowly he calmed down, breathing deep and even. Hunk closed his eyes, taking the rock back.It wasn’t ready and he knew they weren’t ready for marriage yet either. Still, Hunk couldn’t imagine his life with anyone else but Shay.He was just terrified that she’d already moved on, that she’d forgotten him.“Look, I don’t get the whole relationship thing, but you and Shay are meant for each other. You’re like Shiro and Adam, Keith and Lance, grossly romantic and terrible but perfect. I’m sure Shay’s doing what she has to to survive and she’ll be back soon. And, when you get married, I will be your person of honor, got that?”Hunk laughed, putting the crystal in his pocket. “I think you and Lance will have to fight for it but yeah, I’m down. Though, I have a feeling, Keith wouldn’t fight for the position. He’s not the one to draw attention.”Pidge threw their head back, joy on their face again. “Yeah, but you know Shiro’s going to ask anyway. And Keith won’t say no because for some reason, Shiro’s got puppy dog eyes.”“Hey, thanks.”“No problem, big guy. You alright? I mean, I’d love to talk more, but, I do kinda wanna go back to the arcade.” Pidge rolled their eyes.Hunk stood, truly feeling better with the weight off his shoulders. “Yeah, it’s fine. I'm gonna stay here for a while. Just to collect my thoughts. I’ll uh, talk to you later, if that’s alright though.”Pidge looked up and Hunk didn’t doubt their relationship as best friends the slightest. “My office is always open, see ya later, Hunk.”After that, he began to wander around the carnival. He stopped for a moment, aiming at targets with the MFE pilots. Griffen was a good shot, Kinkade was better though. Hunk found the Holts, O’Sem and Matt holding hands in the front while Sam and Colleen walked slowly together. Life was all around them and Hunk was finally able to enjoy it with a lighter heart.At one point he found Keith, ZIra and Kosmo as well but before he could see how they were doing, they were forced onto a ride.He panicked, worried about his stomach before he found out it was more of a kid’s ride. Which meant Zira loved it and Keith looked like he was dying.“Clear Day, Clear Day, Clear Day!” He sang with Zira, glad to see her smiling.Maybe this carnival was what they all needed.After a sudden break out with Keith, Hunk went back to walking around, this time with Romelle and Liah. They talked about Allura and that they were getting things for her and Hunk decided to join in as well. He found something for her, then some items for her his family, and of course, a stuffed toy for Shay. They could wait in his room until he saw everyone again and he’d be willing to wait.This way, he’d bring a bit of the carnival home to them.

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Pidge was back in gaming heaven and was ready for it. This was like being at the space mall and really, Pidge shouldn’t be let loose with money and things to spend money on. Coran put way too much faith in them but Pidge wasn’t going to complain.Pidge continued to swing, hitting Coran’s head every time it came through one of the black holes. They were rocking this game and the amount of tickets proved that Pidge was best.Maybe they were too competitive like Mom said.That didn’t stop Pidge from playing game after game, winning each and every one.Pidge had met Coran’s granddaughter before, though they never thought they’d say, ‘Coran’s granddaughter’ before. She looked like Coran with bright orange hair but thankfully the relation stopped there.She was bright though, just a year or so younger than Pidge. They talked for a long while about tech, and Hunk added his own side of the conversation. Pidge could have stayed there forever, finally with people who understood them.The hardest part about being the smartest person in the room is that you’re always alone. Somehow, by running out into space, Pidge wasn’t alone anymore.Yet another thing they never thought they’d say.After a short but comforting break with Hunk, Pidge was back at the arcade. But after spending their final token, it was time to get the biggest prize they could.Carnivals like this were made to show off, for people to prove they were better and walk around with more things or bigger items. Sure, it was sold to children for being fun and all that, but Pidge knew the truth.And goddamnit, they were going to walk around with a giant stuffed animal if that proved they were the best gamer here.They slammed the tickets down onto the counter. |”What’s the best prize you have?”|The young Unilu gestured with one hand, head resting in another. |”Every prize is the best prize and everyone goes home a winner.”||”Okay, but say I was getting something that said I was the best? You know, hypothetically.”||”Behold.”| She said in a monotone voice and gestured to a bright mining hat with jewels and gems.Pidge was a sucker for shiny things.|”I’ll take it!”||”Sure, but you’re gonna need about twice as many tickets as this.”|Pidge’s shoulders dropped. |”But I don’t have any more tokens.”||”Well, in that case, you could get one of these shovels and use it to dig your way out of the hole you find yourself in.”| To sell the point, she placed a small shovel on the desk.|”I’ll find a way to get more tickets.”| Pidge said, a plan already forming in their head as they stalked away.The Holt family had stuck together it seemed. Matt and O’Sem were pulled to the side with Matt whispering words that were no doubt disgusting while Dad and Mom were looking at costumes with Bae Bae. Pidge didn’t need to know what was going on, they just needed tokens.“Dad, I ran out of tokens!” They pleaded with their dearly beloved father.“Well, Sweet Pea, that’s what happens when you waste it all on-”“But Dad!” Pidge pouted, pleading with all their heart.They used to get away with things like this when they were younger, they were sure it would work again. And it would have, if not for Mom getting in the way.“Okay, how much do you need?”“How much do you got?”At the last moment, Mom stole the tokens, smirking down on them.“Well, darling, you’ll have to earn them. I want a family picture, we deserve one after all this.”Oh, how Pidge hated pictures. They always came out wrong, Pidge always felt uncomfortable in the clothes and Mom always wanted them to smile more.But they needed those tokens.Pidge met Mom’s eyes, unwilling to back down. “I’ll take the picture but I pick the costume.”“I get to add one accessory and you have to smile.”“Half smile.”“You’ve got yourself a deal.”That’s how Pidge found themselves with everyone in Swalian outfits, mining hats on their heads, as they posed for the picture. Pidge did their best, but they really weren’t the type for photos.The photographer passed it back and Mom inspected it with a frown.“I want another picture, Pidge isn’t smiling, like they said they would.”Yet Dad passed over the tokens and Pidge was gone before Mom could make them do anything else. They made it back to the arcade and this time, they found Nyma and Beezer.Pidge made their way over, crouching down to say hello to their old friend.“Hey buddy! You're looking super clean today. Good to know Rolo and Nyma are still taking care of you.”Beezer’s ears went down and they looked up to see Nyma’s solemn face. Pidge hadn’t seen Rolo on the Atlas but they really didn’t think anything of it. Nyma and Rolo were free spirits, nothing seemed to tie them down. But, now that they thought about it, they hadn't seen Rolo anywhere.“He, he didn’t make it, huh?”Pidge was never close to the guy but still, every death hurt. They pet Beezer’s head, letting him lean in for comfort.[“He didn’t make it off Kokoa. We made it to a ship but, but it was already too late.”]“I’m, uh, I’m sorry.”Pidge hated it when people died though. Funerals were not their thing; they never knew what to say or do. But Pidge was sorry, death wasn’t easy.[“It’s why we joined the Atlas. Irna and I need the stability, something I never thought I would say.”] Nyma laughed.[“Who, who’s Irna?”][“Why, our daughter. Didn’t Matt tell you?”]Pidge’s mind stopped working for a moment before going back to reality. [“Oh, uh, no. We try not to talk about the war or rebel stuff. Matt has this stupid rule about not talking about serious stuff. We end up talking about Sem most of the time.”][“Oh, my Kaltor, you would not believe how obsessed he was!”] Nyma leaned in, telling all of Matt’s secrets. [“Even when Rolo and I were new to the group, we could see him staring at her. Kaltor, it was almost too much to watch.”][“I know right! I mean, the first day I get him back and he’s talking about her and what a ‘good friend’ she is.”] Pidge scoffed. [“As if anyone believed that his feelings were just for friendship.”][“Rolo and I tried our best, teasing, pushing, the sort. Nothing ever worked, he was oblivious to the attention O’Sem only gave him. He kept saying he didn’t deserve her and that she would never notice him. What a joke.”][“I know! Anyway, I, uh, I didn’t know you had a kid.”] Pidge glanced around, waiting for another crotch spawn to appear.Nyma leaned back against one of the arcade games, a smile on her face. [“Well, Rolo and I didn’t talk about her much. Stealing for Zarkon was a way to survive, you see. To send what money we could to his family who were taking care of her. Then, we get involved in this whole war, realizing that this wasn’t a world we wanted her to grow up in. You inspired us to do something more for her. He would have joined the Coalition, I’m sure of it.”]The strangest thing was that Nyma didn’t look sad. She wasn’t happy, of course, but she seemed, content. Pidge wasn’t sure if it was because of time or something else, but Nyma seemed alright.[“I’d like to meet her, if you’re okay with that.”] Pidge didn’t know why they were saying these words, they didn’t like kids.Children were gross, loud, annoying and so many other negative words. Zira wasn’t bad, but Pidge didn’t go out of their way to hang out with her.Nyma looked down, eyes shining. [“Sounds great. If anything, Beezer needs an update, I’m sure he’d love your help.”][“For Beezer, I would sell my left foot. Now, you wanna try to beat me at the racing game?”][“You’re on, gremlin.”]They played through the rest of Dad’s tokens, and this time when Pidge walked up to the counter, they had a whole pile of tickets. Surprisingly, there was enough for the amazing helmet and a small item. Nyma picked something, a small purple gem, before they parted ways.

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Shiro was looking forward to this. A night out away from the Atlas, Keith on one side and Adam on the other. Everyone was safe and all was good and he was finally able to smile with his family.Adam walked with his cane, supporting his leg while they slowly walked through the carnival grounds. Shiro let Keith walk ahead, silently listening as they chatted. Keith would point out a stall and Adam would ask about a race of people but they weren’t really talking.Not yet at least. Shiro could see that they were both itching to talk, the dam would break eventually.It did after they stopped to buy something like ice cream, eating it as they walked.“So, when did the tail happen?”“Seriously? You wanna ask me about my tail?” Keith’s tail flicked out, hitting Adam’s right leg.“What? Think about it, I’ve been able to interrogate Shiro all about his new arm and all that. You, you’re purple, with fangs, claws and a tail. I don’t remember you looking like this when you were a kid.”Keith folded his arms. “I had a late growth spurt. Galra nutrition and all that. Kolivan thought I had been starved when I first came to them.”Adam paused, glaring even though Kolivan wasn’t there. “What the hell? Why would he think that? Takashi and I took great care of you. I was a God damn great father.”Suddenly, Shiro knew exactly where Keith got his attitude from. Krolia was strict and brutally honest and Shiro never knew Keith’s father but at the moment, Keith was a mirror image of Adam.Right down to the crossed arms.“There was nothing wrong with your raising of me. But Galra eat meat for every meal, basically. All I ate was meat and this gross nutrition thing.”“Well, I’m sorry I didn’t know you were, well, something more.” Adam stared at the ground and Shiro moved forward.It was true, they were like parents to Keith. He wasn’t a baby, but he needed them. Adam took about a day to get used to Keith at the house and then he jumped forward. Taking care of homework, making meals, and comforting him after nightmares. While Shiro panicked, Adam was there to help.Keith didn’t need that anymore, the last time Adam saw Keith Adam was a father. Now, he was just a friend.Keith seemed to realize that Adam wasn’t mad and he unfolded his arms, looking off in the distance.“Look, it was nothing against you or Shiro. Really, I’m glad you took me in when you should have put me in another group home. I didn’t mean to sound, I don’t know, ungrateful?”“You’re not ungrateful, I just, I thought you’d run off or something. I’m sure Kashi has told you, but we looked for you for months. I tried to explain it by saying you found your mother, which, I guess isn’t far from the truth. But I, I feared that you ran away because of us, because of me.”“Oh.”Shiro smiled and rolled his eyes. Keith and Adam both cared so much about people, but they were both terrible at saying such feelings.Then again, Shiro knew he was oblivious to things, maybe he wasn’t one to talk.“I didn’t.” Keith suddenly said. “Run away because of you. Kolivan, my uncle, found me one day after school. He said he’d take me to my mom and I couldn’t, I just couldn’t let that opportunity slip away.”“I know. I just, I wasn’t expecting you to come back, all grown up. You were so small when I saw you last.”Keith smiled and Shiro knew he was biting back another comment about a Galran diet. Still, no one moved or did anything, Adam and Keith were just standing a distance away from each other.So, Shiro elbowed Keith and he stumbled forward. He sent a glare, but hugged Adam anyway.“Shit, you really did grow. How fucking dare you?” Adam swore, hidden by Keith’s tall stature.Keith pulled away, an eyebrow raised. “Maybe they just shortened you with that new leg, old man.”Adam swung out with his cane, hitting the backs of Keith’s knees and he stumbled forward. He retaliated by flicking his tail again, hitting Adam’s torso. Before they could get into a new fight, Shiro stepped forward, holding onto Adam’s arm.“Alright, let’s go see what’s going on in that big tent over there.” Shiro distracted them.Keith shook his head, saying he was going to circle around and Shiro let him go. Talking with Adam was enough for one day and honestly, Shiro wasn’t expecting him to pull away from the ‘mission’ at hand.Inside the large tent was a platform and for a terrible moment, Shiro was thrown back to a gladiator ring. He relaxed after Adam gently touched his back, bringing him back to the present. With clear eyes, he realized the ring was set with a table in the middle and it was much too small for a whole fight.|”Well, look who decided to actually show up.”| Shiro looked down, forcing a smile at Minister Burr.|”Good to see you, too, Burr.”||”Couldn’t help but notice that Queen Alluradell ain’t here. That’s fine. Can’t expect Voltron to completely follow through on their promises. I’m sure people won’t be that disappointed by the leader of the Coalition not being here.”||”What’s going on over there?”| Shiro changed the topic quickly before he could develop a headache.Two people had gone into the ring, standing on opposite sides of each other. With the people cheering below and the serious faces of those in the ring, it looked like it was going to be something challenging.|”That’s the arm wrestling contest. It ain’t for people like you.”|Adam looked around him and Shiro just knew an insult was waiting on his tongue. Instead, Shiro continued to ask more about the event.|”And why’s that? Because of my arm?”| He held it up, black metal shining.Burr laughed. |”No. Arm wrestling is for the young and strong. You’re old like me. Those kids would break you in half, magical arm or not.”|Adam snickered and Shiro raised a brow at him. Adam just shook his head, not saying anything but not saying Shiro was young either. He knew the gray hair was misleading, but he couldn’t let Adam think he was an old man.He wasn’t one for contests but with Adam here, suddenly he was very interested.|”Is it too late to sign up?”||”Mm, I’m sure we could work something out.”|Adam was moved to a bench and Shiro signed up, standing with the others to wait his turn. Several went up, and soon it was his turn. Shiro walked up to the table, meeting the eyes of his opponent that was a species he’d never seen before. They met in the middle, hands clasped and elbows on the table.[“May the best man win.”] Shiro said.[“Who are you calling a man?”] His opponent countered in a high pitched voice.The whistle sounded and Shiro focused on winning rather than the comment. The pink alien pushed, nearly getting Shiro’s arm on the table. Still, he fought back, managing to win the battle. A horn sounded and Shiro’s arm was thrown into the air as the victor.He smiled right at Adam who was clapping but shook his head. Shiro didn’t mind, he liked the smile on Adam’s face.He moved up a round and this time met with someone who looked old but was covered in muscles. Another whistle was followed by a horn when he won that contest as well. Shiro fought person after person, feeling bright even though this was a near trigger for his past.He really owed it to Adam who would stand when the contest was over, shouting Shiro’s name proudly. Shiro wasn’t back in the gladiator rings, righting for his life. He was here, right here, winning for Adam’s smile. In doing so, he felt stronger and lighter, a grin on his face as well.Somehow, he made it to the final match and the tent was full of people. The other wrestlers were there and he could make out the crew and Paladins now standing by Adam.|”Ladies and burrowmen, are you ready to crown an arm-wrestling champion! First up is our challenger, hailing from some tiny planet no one has ever heard of, the one, the only, Black Paladin of Voltron, Shiro!”|Shiro stepped up to the platform and waved which made the room erupt into cheers. The room was dark now, a single light shining on him as he went over to the table.|”And our reigning champion, who needs no introduction, let’s hear it for the Warden!”|To his surprise, the Warden of Beta Traz, where they had freed Slav, stood in the spotlight. His mechanical hands clapped and pointed; Shiro smiled at the former enemy.Changes were happening across the universe and Shiro accepted each and every one. No matter how strange. Some people though, don’t accept change that well.[“You!”] Warden growled as he stomped toward the table.|”Friend of yours?”| The host asked.|”Not exactly.”|Still, Warden extended his arm and Shiro held on. Their hands were wrapped together, making it so they wouldn’t be able to break apart.[“You and your little friends took away my livelihood.”][“You held an innocent person prisoner to help the Galra Empire.”] Shiro countered. [“And I’ll gladly do it again.”]Shiro was expecting an angry response, a sneer or something. Instead, Warden’s face softened and he glanced toward the table.[“Look, I know I did some bad things.”]Oh.Shiro wasn’t expecting this sort of talk down.[“The truth is, I thought you guys ruined my life, but really, you saved me. After I stopped working for the Empire, I was at a low point. Then I found arm-wrestling, and it helped me realize what's most important in my life.”]Warden glanced behind and there was a giant dog-like creature sitting there. Shiro went with it, who was he to judge?[“Win or lose, thank you, Shiro. Now, let’s put on a show!”]The whistle sounded and once again, they fought. With both arms metal, it was a mental fight as much as it was physical. Shiro pushed back, neither of their arms moving from the center. Slowly, Shiro brought Warden’s arm down, inching closer and closer to the tabletop. The Warden returned fire, and Shiro’s hand was inches from the table.He glanced over at the audience, hearing their shouts and seeing his team cheering for him.Shiro couldn’t lose.Finally, Warden’s arms touched down and Shiro was crowned Champion once more. His team joined them, the room was so loud with everyone yelling and talking and screaming. With the Paladins and crew there in the ring, Shiro focused on one person.Medal wrapped around his arm, he kissed Adam and Shiro decided that no matter what happened, he wouldn’t have changed a thing about their past.

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Allura opened her eyes moments after lying down, still tired but her headache was gone. She glanced over, unsure why Romelle was there in the room. She was just standing there, looking at the Junibery.{“Ro? What are you doing here? I thought you were going to the carnival?”}{“It is such a beautiful flower.”}{“Yes. Thank you once more for the gift, I had assumed they had gone extinct.”}{“You should know better than anyone, that nothing ever truly goes extinct.”} Lotor said, but as Allura frantically searched the room, there was no one there.She blinked and then there he was, standing before her. His armor was damaged, his skin cracked with purple Quintessence and his eyes, his eyes were dark. He looked exactly like he did when they pulled him from the rift.Allura had been given the option to visit Lotor once he gained consciousness and Keith said it was like talking to a different person. Even so, she couldn’t bring herself to see him. She hadn’t seen him since the rift.Until now.Lotor looked wrong, his hair was too white, his smile too wide and his fingers too sharp. His voice was strange as well, belonging to Lotor yet different at the same time.{“It’s good to see you again, my Queen.”}Allura pulled the knife out from under her bed, holding it up as she glared. She prayed he wouldn’t notice how her hands were trembling, how difficult it was for her to breathe.{“How, how did you get in here? You, you are supposed to be-”}{“You know, the ancients believed that all of life with a single Juniberry flower.”}{“Answer me!”} She moved the blade forward, holding it to his throat. {“How did you get here? You are supposed to be-”}{“I thought you’d be happy to see me, my dear. After all, you and I desire the same thing. We need more. More knowledge, more resources, and more, power.”} His eyes flashed and she stumbled back.She knew this was wrong, everything made sense and yet it didn’t at the same time. Lotor couldn’t be here, but here he was, smirking right at her. She needed to alert the crew, to kill him, to save him.{“I, I am not like you, Lotor. I know when I have gone too far and I have never sacrificed others like you.”}{“You haven’t? What about all the people who died while Voltron was missing? What about the Galra soldiers you killed simply because they were following orders? Their blood is on their hands, you and I are the same.”}Allura looked down at her hands and to her horror, her skin was dark purple, her nails were long and blood red.She looked up and Lotor had changed, he was normal again, eyes light and armor restored. He held out a hand and she looked down, relieved to see her own hands once more.{“Come with me, Allura, and I shall teach you everything you need to kill Haggar and more.”}A song was hissed in her ear and she recognized it, though she couldn’t tell from where. It was soft, drawing her in like she was a boat on water. She found herself reaching for Lotor, taking his hand even though she knew it was wrong.{“Everything you need is right here.”}Then they were in the containment room, looking upon the captive creature that was pulled from Tavo. It called to her, its song was sweet and calming.{“This entity holds the power you seek. It is an ancient form of energy that predates time itself. It hails from the Quintessence Field. Entities like this gave Haggar the ability to conquer worlds and control the universe for a thousand decaphoebs.”}The creature continued to swim and Allura followed the motions, wishing she could swim with it as well.Lotor was right behind her, his calming words whispered in her ear. {“She recognizes the strength it provides her and she uses it. If you can become with the entity, then the powers you gain can defeat the witch.”}Allura reached for it, welcoming the bright light that took over her vision. She blinked several times, relaxing at the familiar sight before her.The juniberries grew under her feet, the castle in the distance. The wind blew through her, singing her name and Allura was home.{“Alluradell.”}She looked over, tears forming at the sight of Mother on the other end, waiting for her. Behind her was Father, the two standing with open arms.{“Mother, Father!”}{“I am so happy you are here.”} Melenor smiled.{“You have arrived just in time.”} Alfor said.{“Just in time? For what?”}{“To save us.”} They said in unison before gesturing to the skies above.The blue sky that was filled with Galra battle cruisers that began to fire at the ground. Allura looked down, the scene had changed as well. Fire covered Altea and she was in the middle of Alteatown. People were screaming, children crying out as destruction showered down on them. She spun, stopping at the sight of Mother running with Gran, Dhanny and Aria behind her.Allura reached, wishing to help when everything changed again. She was in dark armor and in a suit. When she moved, so did the Komar she was piloting. Her body moved without her permission, calling forth the blades that were then sunk into the ground. Quintessence flowed through them and she could feel it, the power, singing her name.With this power, she would save her family. The Komar fired into the ash-filled sky, destroying all the Galra ships in her path.Only, when she looked down again, Altea was still destroyed. Cracks covered the sky, people laid in the streets and the wind had gone still. Mother was there, frozen with Gran, Dhanny and Aria. Mother had her hand out, to stop or to reach out. Then, they blew away, dust falling to the ground.Metal rings collapsed from above and the mountains crumbled. Altea shifted, the ground rising and falling as the planet died under her feet.Because of her.Allura woke up, panting and sweating. She sat up in her bed, thoughts racing from the dream she’d had. Normally she was such dreamless sleep but that, that was more a nightmare.She took slow breaths, calming herself down as she reached for the mice on the end of her bed. They squeaked, questioning what was wrong.{“It, it is alright. I am alright. It was only a dream.”}The juniberry on her desk sat withered, darkened just like Altea.Feeling restless, Allura got out of bed and began to walk. She tried to not think about the dream, about Lotor or Altea. Instead, she found herself thinking of the entity, of the song it sang and how it was calling out. It wanted her and only her, she had to know more.Even though she shouldn’t have, Allura entered the containment room. Alone, she reached for it, glad and mad for the glass separating them.Allura closed her eyes, feeling her head start to pound.{“You can save us.”} She looked over, eyes wide at Luca who stood with her. {“Everything you need, the ability you’ve been seeking, the power to save us all is right here, within your grasp. We need you, Queen Allura, will you help us?”}Lotor was with her once more, smiling softly. {“Don’t worry, my dear, it won’t hurt. Free it, let it help you. Go on, do it.”}{“Alluradell, my star, you can bring us back to life. With this power, all of Altea would be fixed, past and present. Save me, save us.”} Mother stood by Luca, both of them smiling.Lance joined them, face lighter than ever. {“That’s right, Lura, do this for us. The entity will help you, it will save all of us. No more fighting, no more war, no more death. We need this, Lura.”}Allura reached for it, everything was pulling her in toward the creature. She had to know, to understand. She needed power to save her people, to bring an end to Haggar. She had to win, to rule to-A growl was heard and the image before her eyes shattered. She dropped her arm, looking back at White.She was smaller now, most of her energy stolen away by Haggar. Even so, White was strong, staring at Allura with those bright eyes.Everything went dark and Allura fell to the floor.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Arms full of items, the crew moved closer to the shuttles and Lions. Zira played with her new Lion, dancing it along as Lance talked about what he’d done with Romelle.{“I plan on checking on her again, if that is alright. I will be back to put Zira in bed.”}Keith accepted Zira, who began to rest her head on Keith’s shoulder. “No worries. We’ll be waiting for you.”They went to where Red was waiting while Lance entered Blue’s jaw.He reached forward, touching the metal when a shock went down his back. Blue was panicked, worrying about Allura. Lance then saw her, his sister on the floor somewhere.Something was wrong with Allura.Blue was flying before he even sat down, shooting toward the Atlas. A call came from Shiro but he ignored it, pushing Blue to go faster. They docked and she opened her mouth, letting him fly out. He raced through the halls, guided by Blue to where Allura was.He opened the door and there she was, on the floor but thankfully breathing. He knelt by her side, gently shaking her shoulder.{“Lura! Allura! Wake up, please! Lura!”}He glanced around, looking for clues when he saw the dark creature in a container. Lance hurried to cover his ears as it hissed, the sound making him wish he were deaf. He wanted to stab himself, to make everything stop. He wanted to die, to kill, to slash, to-Somehow he managed to pull Allura out and leaned against the now-closed door as his ears continued to ring. No wonder she passed out, that little thing was terrible.Romelle found them after, eyes wide at Lance’s tired expression and Allura still passed out on the floor. Romelle picked Allura up, turning to run toward the medical bay. Liah helped Lance stand, and they made their way much slower.Lance sat on the bed next to Allura, watching as she rested. Doctors were standing over her and Lance was glad to hear her heartbeat sounding from the machine. Romelle was there as well, hands clutched while she looked close to tears.Moments later the Paladins were there as well, Shiro in his uniform while the others were in sleep clothes or casual clothes. Keith carried Zira who looked half asleep on his shoulder.“I leave you alone for two minutes and you end up nearly unconscious?” Keith rushed over, one hand running over Lance as if he could see the inner wounds.Lance caught his hand, gently kissing Keith’s palm. {“I am fine. Allura is the one I am worried about. She was in the room with some dark creature, something I have never seen before. It let out the most terrible sounds, and for a moment, I thought it would be better to die than live hearing it.”}Keith sat down, letting Zira move when she reached for Lance. He held her close, kissing her forehead and letting her rest.“She wouldn’t lay down, not with you gone.” Keith explained.{“Oh, I am sorry. I did not mean to take so long, Zira.”}[“M’tay. I take a nap now.”]Keith wiped under her eye, smiling at her. [“You do that, go to sleep Zira. You did a great job on your mission today.”]She was out like a light, and Lance held onto her even though he really should have been resting. Lance leaned back against the bed, unwilling to leave until Allura woke up. Keith settled down as well and the doctors left.“Allura’s fine, but she hasn’t woken up for some reason. Doctors can’t tell why.” Pidge sat on Allura’s bed.“What happened, Lance? I mean, one moment everything was fine and then bam! You’re both here.”{“I do not understand it myself, Hunk. It was that thing, the creature in the glass jar.”}“Look, we’ll look into this tomorrow but for now, Allura and Lance need to rest. We’ll be back in the morning and hopefully, Allura will be awake to tell us everything. The doctors will be here all night, they’ll keep watch over the two of them. The rest of you guys, go get your rest."While Shiro, Pidge, Hunk and Ah’Liah began to leave, Romelle and Keith stayed sitting. Lance rolled his eyes, moving on the bed enough for Keith to join him. Lance gently moved Zira onto the bed, looking over to stare at his sister.Romelle was by her bedside, hands in her lap but Lance knew she was fighting to not touch Allura. He rolled over, reaching for Keith before closing his eyes.Allura was safe in Romelle’s hands, he was sure of that.The next two quintants were much too long. The first quintant Lance left with a clean bill of health but with no captain and no missions, the Atlas stayed where it was. Coran said it was to refuel but everyone knew that the crew was too worried about Allura.Lance had felt like an outcast on Earth, someone who didn’t quite belong. It was different on the Atlas, With all the different races working together, the humans didn’t act like they were better than anyone. They were a giant team and Allura had become quite popular with them all.She stopped fights, she was enchanting and cunning. She was a great leader and the people respected that, no matter what planet they hailed from.Lance stayed in her room, smiling at every crew member who would walk slowly past her window. Romelle practically lived there with Liah and Coran and Keith and Zira made visits as much as they could.On the second quintant, Pidge and Hunk ran in, both out of breath but grinning widely. Keith asked what was going on, but they just wiggled and waited.Shiro came in moments later and Hunk finally broke.“Okay, so I know we should wait until Allura wakes up, but I can’t keep this a secret any longer.”“It’s been two minutes.”“I know! That’s way too long, Pidge. So, so, Matt got a call which, you know, happens he checks in with his rebel friends and all that-”“Cut to the chase, Hunk.”“Okay, okay, Keith. So, he got a call and you’ll never guess who it was from!” Hunk paused like he was waiting for something.The room was silent.“Seriously?” Pidge folded their arms.“Yeah, guess you guys! I wanna see if you can guess who called us!”Keith rolled his eyes but Shiro didn’t seem to mind.{“Based off of your excitement, I would say Shay, but I cannot figure out why Pidge is so-”}“The Olkari are living on Shay’s Balmera!” Pidge blurted out.They all stood, moving closer to Pidge to hear more.“Matt got a call and it was from an Olkari. Sar-Lyn said that Ryner had a message for us and it was only now that they felt safe enough to reach out. They found Shay and they are in deep, deep space, but they transferred all their data about the Komars.”“Shay’s alive!” Hunk squealed.“Matt talked to them apparently and the Olkari are okay, they are currently looking for a new home while trying to stay hidden. Shay said they could stay so after this we could find them both on Balmera.”“Shay’s alive!” Hunk jumped around.“And because it seems like Hunk can’t say anything else, Shay sent a message of love to Hunk, something really gross and not worth repeating.”“She’s alive and she loves me and she’s waiting for me!”Lance reached forward, hugging Hunk tightly while Shiro did the same to Pidge. Lance then took over, embracing Pidge while the gremlin was accepting hugs. The room was full of smiles as Pidge and Hunk ran off to tell more people.Lance had a feeling that Hunk was going to talk about Shay all quintant long to anyone that would listen. Or, he would end up talking to everyone, whether they cared or not.With new hope, Lance sat down with Zira who was coloring a picture that would make Allura wake up.Eventually she did with a gasp. Lance stood, moving to her side as she rapidly blinked. She sat up quickly and Lance gently pushed her back down, they didn’t want to make her condition worse after all.{“Lura, hey, Lura, you are alright now, you are safe. It is alright.”} He gently brushed the hair out of her face, trying to calm her down.She did so eventually, relaxing onto the pillow and Coran moved the bed to help her sit up a little. Her eyes were still wide, but she seemed better.{“Where am I? What happened?”}{“You are in the medical bay and we were hoping you would have the answer to that. I found you in the containment room, on the floor in front of the dark creature. You have been asleep for two quintants.”}Coran passed over a cup of water which she drank quickly.{“But I saw something, something I cannot remember and yet I know. It was, a dream.”}{“Exactly, a dream, everything is alright. Would you like to see the others, most of the crew would cry if they saw you walking again.”} Coran said softly.Her eyes narrowed and she was silent for a moment. Lance stayed sitting, giving her all the time she needed.{“I know how to track down Haggar. I know what we must do.”}{“It is alright, we do not need to do anything-”}{“Lance!”} Allura shouted and he was taken back by her tone. {“Our people will die, the universe will die! She, she is planning something and we must act now. I can link with her, I can save us!”}{“You are still weak, you must rest-”}{“Coran, summon the other Paladins and get the crew working. Voltron is ending this now, we will use the entity to our advantage.”}

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

She couldn’t see anything. Usually Allura could see something, a dark room was never completely black. This time it was, she couldn’t even see her hands in front of her face. She held herself, chest heaving although it felt like she wasn’t getting enough air. The room was too small, everything was closing in on her and she wasn’t going to make it out alive and she’d die here and this was the end and-Allura blinked and it changed, images filling the dark room and emotions feeling her chest. She watched her father sit in a classroom and instead of feeling love for her father, she felt the love of a good friend.Allura saw too many things to remember, Alteans she didn’t know, rooms she didn’t recognize and planets she’d never been to. It was only after a mirror appeared in one that she realized what she was seeing.Standing in the mirror was Honerva, dressed in purple and beaming. Zarkon soon joined her, both of them looking exactly like Allura remembered from her childhood.Then the memories changed, images flew by but parts of the pictures were just gone. Allura’s head began to throb and she could feel familiar lighting coursing up and down her spine.Allura saw the rift, she saw a strange creature with blue and orange markings. She saw Zarkon and Voltron and the Paladins. Then, she saw the entity, heard it singing to her. No, to Honerva.It was the same sweet song, begging for Honerva, promising power and the universe. The images changed again, even more parts missing as Honerva changed into Haggar.At this point, so much was missing and the images were flying so fast, Allura couldn’t understand anything. She saw things that didn’t make sense, a dark mech with wings, a blue area with white rivers, another place that was like the Quantum Field.Allura folded her arms, holding herself as her heart clenched. She gasped, pain ripping her open as she was pulled apart by the universe. She was dying! She needed to get out of here, she needed to wake up, she needed to move!All the images stopped and the feelings left but Allura wasn’t in the dark completely. Before her stood a mirror and Allura saw herself in it. She reached out, sighing at the familiar pink marks, white hair and blue eyes. Until the image shifted and Haggar was smirking back at her.‘Allura.’She woke with a gasp, unable to get enough air into her lungs as she jumped up. Hands pushed her down and she fell back into a pillow, wide eyes meeting Lance and Coran.{“Lura, hey, Lura, you are alright now, you are safe. It is alright.”} He gently brushed the hair out of her face, trying to calm her down.She did so eventually, relaxing onto the pillow and Coran moved the bed to help her sit up a little. Her eyes were still wide, but she seemed better.{“Where am I? What happened?”} Where was the dark room, what happened to Haggar?Lance sat next to her, his eyes calming and steadying her racing heart. {“You are in the medical bay and we were hoping you would have the answer to that. I found you in the containment room, on the floor in front of the dark creature. You have been asleep for two quintants.”}Coran passed over a cup of water which she drank quickly.{“But I saw something, something I cannot remember and yet I know. It was, a dream.”}Images were already leaving her, but something was tugging on her.She’d seen something, something that would destroy the universe. But what was it? Why couldn’t she remember?{“... the crew would cry if they saw...”}Haggar was planning something, something great and terrible. But if just reaching for the entity tied her to Haggar for those few ticks, maybe Allura could learn more.She could use it to their advantage. If they could reach into Haggar’s mind, they would know where she was and what she was planning. They could plan ahead, fight in a way where Haggar couldn’t win. This was it, this was their one chance.{“I know how to track down Haggar. I know what we must do.”}{“It is alright, we do not need to do anything-”}{“Lance!”}She was tired of people telling her to wait. Keith told her to wait until they went to Earth to find the Colony. Everyone on Earth told her to wait before attacking Gnov. Iverson told her to wait to find her people and she was sick of waiting!Her heart was racing and she could feel the power of the entity leaving her. Maybe she wasn’t acting like herself but that didn’t matter. They were running out of time to defeat Haggar!{“Our people will die, the universe will die! She, she is planning something and we must act now. I can link with her, I can save us!”}{“You are still weak, you must rest-”}She turned away from her brother, pulling rank to get what she needed. {“Coran, summon the other Paladins and get the crew working. Voltron is ending this now, we will use the entity to our advantage.”}Lance’s eyes grew cold and he stood, but didn’t say anything else. Coran nodded and left the room.{“Lura, what are you doing?”}{“I am ending this.”}He moved to the doorway, pausing to look over his shoulder. {“And what shall you pay to do so?”}{"Anything."}Lance left without another word and she pushed him from her mind. They could talk about this and apologize after, she needed to act now.She got dressed quickly, moving to the council room as quickly as she could. Allura was quite proud that she only leaned on the wall a few times. Several saluted as they walked past, but she remained focused.Allura entered last, the rest of the Paladins sitting in the room. Keith, Pidge and Hunk sat on one side, Coran, Shiro and Lance on the other. Lance, of course, had crossed his arms and was glaring at the table. She moved to the head, addressing the team.{“I have figured out a plan to find Haggar and stop her before it is too late.”}“Are you sure about doing this now? Are you okay, Allura?” Hunk asked.{“I am fine, I need to do this before it is too late. I pulled an entity from Tavo earlier this- uh I guess, several quintants ago. This entity is linked to Haggar, a connection that is vulnerable and accessible. I believe I can use it, she seems to allow me in.{“I believe that if you Paladins connect using the shared consciousness of Voltron, I can guide you into Haggar’s mind using the entity. With this, we would know everything, what she is doing, what she is planning and her current location. This information is what we need to end her. End this.”}“I understand, this could give us vital information.” Pidge said.“Which, after what happened after the last time we faced her, could be super useful.” Hunk added.“Haggar is capable of creating Komars, wormholes, robeasts and more, I agree that she is our greatest enemy right now and a target. The lead is exactly what we need, but I’m not so sure about using the entity. I mean, can we even trust it?”{“But it might take lifetimes to find and defeat her, Keith. Already I feel the link with her fading, we must do this now.”} Allura pushed, wishing for just a moment that she could control the team like she used to.Shiro paused before speaking. “I spent a lot of time in the void. Even with Black with me, it took all of my strength not to lose my sanity. Allura, if you face Haggar in this void, she will win. But, if we just look for clues, we don’t dig too deep, we can use that information to find her ourselves. Can you stop yourself Allura, from swimming too deep?”Allura wasn’t a risky person, not like Helga or even Lance. She planned, she waited and she gathered information. Father always said that was her greatest skill, her patience.It felt like her patience had run dry, that she had nothing left. She was panicked, hungry for something she couldn’t name. Somehow she knew they were coming to the end and it didn’t matter how far down they swam. It was worth the risk of drowning.{“Allura is not in the right mind for this.”} Lance stood, eyes fierce. {“She was asleep for days, attacked by a dark creature and has had nightmares. Shiro, you say this takes strength and though you are the strongest person I know, Lura, you are not strong enough for this. I do not like using her to connect to that witch’s mind. I do not like that you seem so alright with melding your mind with hers, Allura. This feels, wrong.”}{“Lance, we are the Paladins of Voltron. If we cannot, then who else? Are we to let this drag on, letting the next generation live in fear or fight her? Would you let your children gather their strength to fight her Komars?”}{“Low blow, Lura. You know I do not want that, I am simply saying-”}{"We are Voltron."} Allura continued. {“There is no one else who can take this risk, no one else to fight this battle. We are trained, we are ready and we must do this now. I am ready, I can do this.”}The others stood as well, but no one seemed to argue anymore. Keith and Lance didn’t seem too happy, actually, looking around the table everyone seemed upset. While she was truly thankful for their worried hearts, she didn’t need them right now.She needed Haggar stopped.“Then I guess it’s time to form Voltron. Allura, I assume you’ll join Lance?” She nodded. “Then, let’s get this over with.”Shiro left first, followed by Pidge and Hunk, finally Keith and then Lance. Allura moved to follow, but was stopped by Coran.{“Think about this for one more tick, my darling girl. I swore to Alfor and Melenor that I would look after you, that I would keep you and your siblings safe. I do not think I can bare to lose yet another daughter.”}He looked close to tears and for a moment, Allura’s heart wavered. She didn’t want to hurt Coran, or even Lance and the others. But what else was she supposed to do? She had a plan, they had the means to follow through, she had to keep pushing. She closed the wall around her heart, attacking instead of feeling sadness.{“But you see, I am not your daughter, Coran.”}She left Coran behind.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

There was no time for goodbyes.The Paladins walked together, all going down to the hangar while Coran went to the bridge. There was no time to stop, to say words of comfort or love to their families. The Paladins walked quickly and silently, prepared for war.Once again Allura stood behind Lance, White at her feet and eyes focused. This is what they needed, a chance to bring her to her knees, to finish this.Allura was ready.Coran slowly made his way to the bridge, going for the captain's platform without explaining things to the crew.“Sam, I need you to gather the containment vessel of the entity and go to a hatch. Release it on my signal.”Sam’s face came onto the screen, confusion written on his face. “Are you sure about this? I mean, we have no idea what this thing can-”“Queen Alluradell’s orders, Commander Holt.”Sam nodded and cut the video.Once Sam was in place, Coran linked with the Voltron Lions. “Paladins, you are go for launch.”Black shot out, followed by Blue, Red, Green and Yellow. Coran watched as they formed Voltron slowly. Voltron stood and Keith formed the upgraded version of the sword. Energy crackling along the blade, Coran made the call to release the entity.It flew right toward Voltron, as if it was drawn by Allura. Red reached out, the blade touching the entity and the Paladins were knocked unconscious.Allura came to first, relieved to find that she had been pulled into the link as well as the other Paladins. Soon, the others joined her, all of them standing still while beams of light flew right past them. A white light was on the horizon, but Allura was focused on the dark spot that was pulling on her.“Now what?” Hunk glanced around.“Allura, do you feel anything?” Shiro reached out.Allura pointed, walking toward the entity. (“There, go to the light.”)“How do you know?” Pidge asked.“Are you sure Allura?” Keith hesitated.{“Lura-”}She activated her jetpack and the others were forced to follow as she flew away without warning. They flew toward the light as she said. They passed through, finding themselves in an area of space unknown to all.It was loud and soft, bright and dark, unknown and familiar. The Paladins continued to fly, Allura in the lead while the others looked around the star-filled area.{“What is this place?”} Lance shouted.“Guys, it’s like, it’s like I can hear the universe thinking.” Hunk whispered.“Do you remember how the Olkari told me that everything is made of the same dust? Maybe this is what Ryner meant.” Pidge explained.“So, we’re all linked across some kind of, what, cosmic connection?” Keith doubted.“Allura, wait for us!” Shiro reached a hand for her as she flew ahead of them.{“We must go! I can feel her, we are close.”} Allura chased after the entity.The stars around them started to vanish as they flew toward a black hole. The Paladins hesitated but Allura charged in, pulled by the entity. She flew through it moments before the others and entered a new world.A storm raged overhead, lighting striking and filling the sky with light. Allura reached the surface, the horizon glowed by an unseen sun. The surface was like stone, cold and solid and there were no stars to be seen.Allura knelt down while the others looked around, hand pressed on the unmovable wall.“Is this, Haggar’s mind?”“I don’t know, I have no idea where we are, Hunk.” Pidge said.“Do you guys feel that?” Keith shuddered, feeling a chill go down his spine.“This is someone’s consciousness, it’s not, it’s not a great feeling.”The Paladins looked to Shiro, who was stuck in an area like this for months. Since they’d made it to their destination, it was time to finish things so they could leave.{“I can feel her. She is on the other side of this.”} Allura told the Paladins.Something swam by under her hand, and she stood, backing up toward the others. Shieks filled the air as more creatures swam around under them. Lance covered his ears, unwilling to hear something like what the entity had sounded like earlier.“What are those?” Hunk stared in mild disgust.“I have no fucking idea.” Pidge watched the things swim, wishing they weren’t here.{“I can feel Quintessence.”} Allura knelt, reaching out again. {“Whatever these things are, they were once full of life.”}A hand jumped out from the wall, grasping Allura’s wrist. She screamed, catching the other’s attention as she was pulled down. Lance reacted first, pulling on her as more hands came from the floor. Hunk let out a scream as well while Shiro and Keith activated their bayards.Allura was pulled under quickly, her knees and hands sinking through the wall like it was water. Lance followed, letting himself be pulled to reach his sister. Hands wrapped around Pidge and Hunk while Keith and Shiro tried to fight back.Pidge was next, Hunk and Shiro reaching for them as they vanished from sight. Hunk’s scream was cut off when his head was pulled under. Keith looked up, meeting Shiro’s panicked eyes as his feet began to disappear.Shiro reached for Keith but soon he was gone as well. Shiro’s arm formed a blaster and he began to shoot at the floor, but the were no marks left. He wasn’t sure who was screaming now, or maybe it was him yelling as he started to pound at the floor.Purple brass knuckles covered his fists as he fought back, Kuron and Shiro unwilling to lose their team. He yelled into the void, demanding his team to be returned to him.But no one responded.Shiro eventually stopped, knuckles hurting even though the bayard took most of the damage. He sat on his knees, feeling the hard floor.There had to be a way in, a way for him to reach his team. Shiro had to do something, to break through, to attack, to fight! He closed his eyes, shifting so he was sitting cross-legged as he pushed Kuron’s urges away.“Patience. Patience yields focus.”Shiro calmed his mind before reaching for his team.~~~Keith was alone with a red nebula filling the sky.“Lance! Shiro! Anybody! Hunk, Pidge, Allura, where are you?”Keith kept his sword in hand, waiting for something to either attack or show him the way. He’d been in situations like this way too often.Keith groaned as a sword cut through his back, taking him by surprise. He turned, watching a dark figure run around with impossible speed, red eyes watching his every movement. Keith charged, meeting the other swordsmen, but it was too strong, too quick. It continued to slash, not cutting through Keith but leaving marks nonetheless.Keith fought back, unwilling to back down from this warrior. Even so, he continued to worry for his team, for the battles they were fighting.Keith needed his team.~~~Hunk felt like he was gonna be sick. That was just gross and wrong, hands should not come out from the floor.Ever!“Hey, guys? You ready to go?”But Hunk was alone with yellow clouds above him. Well, he was alone for a while, before a large dark figure formed, holding a large staff.It began to attack, knocking Hunk around like he was a doll. He tried getting away, but the figure with yellow eyes followed him. Hunk formed his hip cannon, shooting at the figure as it ran toward him. It spun its staff, blocking each and every laser Hunk fired.Hunk continued to call out, trying to reach his friends to call for help or anything. The figure was strong, Hunk knew he couldn’t win alone.But no one was there and Hunk wished he wasn’t so weak.~~~Pidge panted, brushing their arms to get rid of the awful feeling.Pidge glanced around, staring at the green planet shining above them. The area was silent, and no one else could be seen.“Guys!” The shout echoed in the never-ending area.They began to spin around, desperately hoping to see a flash of color, to see their suits or faces. They stopped, seeing a dark figure on the other end of the field. A weapon formed in their hands, a spear with a deadly blade. Green eyes glowed moments before the figure charged.Pidge ducked, jumping back to avoid the life-ending slashes. The figure fought with all their might, obviously trying to kill Pidge.They summoned their bayard, forming twin daggers just in time to block the blade.The spearmen was fast, striking and slashing at all of Pidge’s weak points. They continued to fight, trying to connect with Green to end this fight. There was no connection, Pidge was completely isolated.~~~{“Lura!”}Lance screamed, still feeling his sister’s hands slip through his. If only he’d held on tighter if only he hadn’t let her go.{"Lura! Keith! Anyone!"}With blue stars shining above, he searched for the team, for Keith and Allura but found nothing. The area was empty and his team was gone. Who knows what happened to them. Lance needed to find them before something-An arrow flew right past his face and Lance turned, summoning his blaster. He watched as a dark figure ran toward him, bow aimed right at his chest. Blue eyes watched his every movement, arrows flying right past his body. Lance tried firing, but the figure dodged every laser.The figure then jumped up, holding three arrows in its hands. Lance summoned his shield but the arrows broke through, striking his chest. He shouted in pain, hand feeling that there was no damage as his nerves were lit on fire.Lance knelt on the ground, the warrior standing over him as his hope died. This was a fight Lance knew he couldn’t win.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Allura stared at the white moon above her before looking around. She was alone, she was searching for something.What was she looking for?{“Allura”}She turned, smiling at the familiar face.{“Honvera, is Father with you?”}{“I thought you were looking for me? Where have you been?”}Allura knew where she had been, yet, she couldn’t find a single word to say. Honerva moved closer, a dangerous glint in her eyes.{“I asked where you are, Allura. Answer me.”}{“What is wrong, Honerva, you are acting strangely.”}Honerva reached out, sharp nails digging into the flesh of her shoulders, Allura tried to step back, but Honerva wouldn’t let go.{“You thought I wouldn’t notice you? I see all, I am all! I am all-powerful! Now, where are you?”}Allura felt something form in her hand and she looked down to see an Altean staff.Everything snapped into place.She swung but Haggar jumped back, golden eyes glowing. Allura continued to swing, rage in every motion.{“How could you! How could you kill your friends, your own people! How could you tear them apart like they were nothing! How could you send our people to their deaths! How could you!”}Haggar started to laugh, form darkening as Allura tried to attack. She couldn’t land a single hit and it just made her more frustrated. She needed to end this, she needed to kill Haggar!Allura swung out and stopped her arm, the blade of her weapon meeting White’s throat instead of Haggar’s. Allura panted, angry at the beast for stopping her.Why didn’t White understand? Haggar had done such terrible things, she’d even drained White of her energy! Why wasn’t White standing in her way?White moved closer, Allura’s spear vanishing and Allura found herself kneeling before the creature. Hands reached into the thick fur, clinging for something she could never have.{“Why? Why can I not end her? Why am I so weak?”}‘Sometimes, the strongest thing a person can do, is put down the sword.’ White spoke in her head.Allura looked up, only to close her eyes as White blew at her. Suddenly her rage left and her mind cleared. Allura could still feel the connection to Haggar softly poisoning, but with White there, she didn’t feel so vulnerable anymore.Suddenly, Allura was aware of all her actions and she covered her mouth, thinking of all the words and actions she wished she could take back.
‘Come. We are not done yet.’
White then turned, roaring at the moon.Across Hanerva’s consciousness, the Voltron Lions returned, each one finding their Paladin. The Lions joined in the roar, bringing new light to the battlefield.Keith dropped his blade, mouth open at the previous Altean King. Hunk froze, recognizing the Paladin of Old. Pidge stopped fighting, staring at the former Green Pilot. Lance gasped, seeing the hero of his past before him.Yet, the Paladins of old did not stop their fight, minds clouded by something stronger, darker. The team was forced to continue to fight, this time on the defensive, unwilling to hurt the heroes of the past.White roared again, the call echoing across Hanerva’s disjointed mind. The Lions of Voltron bent down, interfering with the fight. Each stood with their eyes glowing, meeting the eyes of their Paladins of old before growling. Quintessence filled the area, as Voltron shared the memories of the past with the warriors of the future.~~~Blaytz glanced around the area, unsure of what was going on. The last thing he remembered was fighting Honerva and Zarkon with Alfor and the young Prince. Now he was in a strange area filled with stars, Blue looking down on them while Yulzandar stood before him.“My Prince, what’s going on?”The Altean Prince stood still, mouth open for some reason.“Oh. My. Groggery. You are Blaytz, the Blue Paladin.”“Of course, you know this Prince Yulzandar.”The Prince stopped, holding out a hand for him to stand. “Forgive me, but I am not Zandar. I am Prince Lancelot.”Blaytz looked over at Blue and visions filled his mind as the past and present were brought together. Blaytz’s Quintessence and memories stored by Blue met that parts twisted by Hanerva, filling in all the gaps in his memories.And yet, it hadn’t felt like time had passed at all.“I am quite glad to see Blue taken care of but someone like you, Prince.”“I was not always her Paladin. I am afraid she prefers my sister over me.” Lancelot chuckled but Blatyz knew that wasn’t true.“I was often overlooked, underestimated. But Blue recognized something in me, something I couldn’t even see. She saw the greatness within that even I did not. I am sure she sees the same in you. There is greatness within, and there are things that only you can do.”The Prince smiled, this one was finally true.~~~Grygan held his head before reaching for his weapon, prepared to fight until the end. Instead of being on a battlefield, he was alone with someone wearing Paladin armor. The person smiled, eyes shining with a wonderful light Grygan hadn’t seen in quite some time.“What happened?”The person reached out their hand and Grygan accepted the aid to stand.“You’re in the void. You, a part of you, was stuck in Honerva, Haggar, whoever’s mind. I’m Hunk, Yellow Paladin.”Grygan turned to Yellow, comforted by the familiar sight. Yellow then opened Grygan’s mind, showing him the years he has missed with his soul split between Yellow’s and Hanerva’s minds. He saw the great and terrible, Voltron and Zarkon, the war that never ended.“And Zarkon, he has truly done such terrible things in our absence?”“Yes, but it wasn’t for long. Voltron was reformed.” Hunk smiled.Grygan moved closer, resting a hand on Yellow’s mighty paw. “I have always believed that unity is where true power comes from, and you have proven me right. You have done a great job, Paladin Hunk.”Hunk smiled even wider if that was possible and Grygan understood why Yellow picked him. War was full of negativity and loss, a good team always needed someone who could see the light, even in the darkest of times.~~~Trigel opened her eyes, quickly searching the area for Honerva or Zarkon. Instead, they were met by this small creature wearing familiar green armor. She looked down at her hands, confirming that she was still in her own armor before looking at the stranger once more.“What... Where am I?”“In some type of void created by Haggar’s mind and some dark creature. Trust me, this is nothing.”Thankfully, Green filled the empty space and Trigel smiled down at the other Paladin.“Hey there, I’m Pidge and welcome to, whatever the hell this is.”“I am Trigel, pleasure to meet you, Pidge. Can you tell me, did Zarkon do such things?”Pidge shrugged their shoulders. “Yeah, that happened and it wasn’t great. But, the Paladins were reunited.Trigel moved to the powerful Lion, glad to be with her friend once more. “I can’t tell you how much it warms my heart to know that someone so connected to the world around them is working with Green. My race believed observation to be the most revered attribute. It is where intelligence is born.”“I agree, though Green’s taught me there’s nothing better than finding out for yourself.” Pidge grinned wildly.Trigel knew this was just a moment, that eventually she would rejoin Green and be at rest finally. Still, she was glad to see Pidge and knew that Green would be taken care of in their hands.~~~Alfor looked up, eyes searching for his son. He was met by stars and another Paladin wearing the same armor. However, this Paladin was tall, with a tail behind them and slightly yellow eyes shining. Alfor stood, unsure of whether this Galra was a friend or foe.Something was strange here, but Red seemed to know what to do.Alfor accepted the knowledge pouring into his head, Alfor’s Quintessence finally united at last. Of course, that meant he knew everything, Zarkon’s death, the loss of Altea, Voltron fighting once more and Allura and Lance surviving.Still, he couldn’t believe it.“Has it really been over a thousand decaphoebs?”“It has, King Alfor.”“Zarkon, he is gone.” Alfor said, mourning his dear friend.“Yes. Shiro, the Black Paladin ended his life.”“I hope he can finally rest. He was never one to slow down, or stop.”Alfor looked up at the Red Lion, unknown feelings rushing through his heart. Though he didn’t know this Galra, he knew of him. They were connected through Red, and through this bond, Alfor could feel his son as well.His son and daughter who were alive.“I can feel your love for my son.” The Galra looked panicked but Alfor chuckled kindly. “I am glad you do, he deserves someone who loves him truly. As Paladins, we face many quests throughout the cosmos, but the most amazing journey is that of love and life. Continue to fight, for life is worth fighting for.”“Thank you.”“And, your name? May I know it?”The Galra stood up straight. “Yorak-Keithir of clan Keldrix-Kogane.”“Take care of them.” Alfor bowed, holding onto the love these Paladins had for his children.He had done one thing right.His children had survived.~~~Shiro sat still, fighting to keep his composure as he tried to reach out for something. To feel Black, or the Paladins or Allura, anything really. He needed to make sure they were alive and well.How was he to lead if he wasn’t fighting beside his team?A soft roar was heard and he opened his eyes, seeing Black before him.“You’re here.”
‘Of course.’
There was more roaring and he turned, watching as each Lion appeared with their Paladins. Shiro smiled at his team, thankful for Black and the other Lions for watching over them when he couldn’t.There was another growl and he turned, shocked to see Allura standing with a familiar white lion.Allura looked around the area, seeing Shiro, Keith, Pidge, Hunk and Lance before relaxing. Then, she noticed the other suits of armor. The one in red turned and she covered her mouth, tears filling her eyes.“Father!”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“Allura! Lance!”Allura reached Alfor first, holding her tightly while Lance stood off to the side.“My daughter, my sweet, sweet moon. It is fitting that I find my stars again in this dark place.”“Father. I, I never thought I would see you again.” Allura pulled away, ripping off her helmet to see her father clearly. “I have missed you, so, so much.”Alfor looked up, eyes meeting Lance. The boy was shaking, the memories of their last fight racing through his head.And yet, Alfor opened up his arms, and Lance stopped holding himself back. He ran forward, embracing his father once more.“Father! I am sorry. I did not-”Alfor stopped Lance, wiping away his tears. “We have lost much time, Lance, let us not worry about the past. I cannot be happier to see you again. My children, oh, I hold the world in my arms.”Shiro moved to the team, checking with Pidge, Hunk and Keith to make sure they were alright while the Alteans bonded.“Parts of their souls were trapped by Haggar’s magic, twisted to attack us.” Hunk explained.“Hey, but it was pretty cool to see them. The Lions created a bridge, sharing old memories with new. I wonder how Quintessence plays a part in this, if it-”“You can write all about it when we get home, Pidge, but let’s finish this mission.” Shiro said and Keith happily agreed.Though, it was strange to be meeting Lance’s father like this. Did he make a good first impression? Alfor bowed to him, that was good, right? How was one supposed to interact with your partner’s father anyway?The Alteans broke apart, the Paladins of old stepping forward to see the children they remembered all grown up. Allura and Lance were full of smiles, the mission forgotten for a moment.Of course, it was just a moment. And when this was all over, Alfor would be gone, because their father was dead. The person before them was Quintessence from the Lions, memories shaped into a person.Allura and Lance held hands, grounding each other as Shiro and the team joined them.“I’m sorry to interrupt, but Allura, we need to continue.”“Do you have any plans on how to get past this thing?” Keith stomped his foot to make a point.The White Lion came forward, and the Paladins watched the great creature. She stopped before Allura, nodding her head. Allura joined White, kneeling before the wall once more. With White there, Allura had all the Quintessence she needed to shape an entrance for the team.The floor began to glow blue, light filling the area as they entered a new area.The Paladins landed on a rocky surface, the number down to six. And yet, with the Lions behind them, they could feel the Paladins of Old watching over them. With the Lions and Paladins, they would never have to fight alone again.Hunk looked up, a beautiful world before him. “Whoa.”“Where are we now?” Keith asked as he stood.Allura looked over the ridge down on a planet she knew from her oldest memories. Memories that were fuzzy at best, memories that were poisoned by Zarkon and Haggar.“Daibazaal. The landscapes of Haggar’s mind must be made up of places from her past.”“Wait one moment.” Lance turned to look at Pidge. “If this is all happening within Haggar’s mind, would she not know we are here?”“About twenty years ago, the Garrison was able to map the human brain to understand it more. A person's mind is an endless landscape of constantly shifting thoughts and ideas. We must be hidden in the chaos.”“Do, do you know this for sure, or is this just a theory?” Hunk asked.Pidge shrugged. “Theory. But if Haggar finds out we’re here, I have a feeling we’ll know about it.”“Ah, good point.” Lance hummed.“Allura, where should we go next?” Shiro changed topics.Allura was left watching the entity float around, no longer drawn to it. Its song was different, the sweet tune was replaced by terrible shrieks. Allura wished they hadn’t come here, she should have listened to Lance.Not that she’d ever tell him. He didn’t need the ego boost.“Allura?” She jumped around, suddenly hearing Shiro’s voice. “Where should we go?”She pointed to where it flew toward another hill. “The Palace.”Within a blink, the Paladins found themselves before the doors and Allura stood at the front, hesitating to knock.This was all her idea and here she was, wishing she could back out. She knew this would help, but they were using something dark. How did that make her any different than Haggar? Haggar just wanted to know the universe, and she was poisoned by the very thing they were following.What if Allura got all of her friends poisoned as well, rage filling them the way it filled her?“Lura!”Allura jumped out of the way, now noticing the cracks in the door. It burst open, a familiar energy ball nearly hitting the other Paladins. Allura watched it rise in the sky when suddenly she was falling through the floor of the planet.One moment she was falling and the next, she was in Blue’s cockpit, Lance piloting once more. They were in an empty sector of space, facing off a robeast. It stood as if it had never been harmed, energy weapon in one hand.Behind it came two more robeasts, one shaped like a head with its mouth open, ready to fire and another one red with arms full of lasers.“Where’d they come from” Keith shouted.“Guys, can we fight three at once?” Hunk stared at the one that nearly destroyed Balmera.Shiro didn’t feel fear this time, looking at the robeasts from the past. “Only way we will is by forming Voltron!”When they did so, they were surprised to see four more lions nearby. Red, Green, Yellow and Blue all glowed, nearly see-through like the lions weren’t quite there.“We will take care of this. Go, find her.” Came Alfor’s reassuring voice.Voltron watched as the four jumped into battle, taking on the three robeasts together. The four lions were quick, jumping around as the three robeasts fired randomly. Voltron flew the other way, leaving the Paladins behind and yet, their energy was still felt.“It seems Haggar knows we’re here!”“Yeah, I kinda realized that, Hunk!” Keith shouted back.“There, I see a light!”At Lance's shout, Shiro aimed Voltron right for it, flying through the wormhole.This time, the lions were gone and they were lying in a field. Keith opened his eyes and stared at the pink flower growing in front of him. They weren’t on Daibazaal anymore, that was for sure.Shiro stood with Hunk and Pidge, scanning the area like Keith was. They were in a large field, the sky dark above them and mountains in the distance. Honestly, it looked like Earth, though Keith had never seen flowers like this before.Keith turned to ask but fell silent. The other turned as well, staring at the large white castle that stood over a brightly lit town. Allura and Lance stood together again, home once more.“Lance.” Allura couldn’t say anymore, her heart stuck in her throat.The Paladins joined them, Keith by Lance, Shiro by Allura with Pidge in front and Hunk behind. The castle seemed so far away, like they could never reach it by walking alone. They were in a field that went on forever, peace surrounding them like a thick blanket.“Well, we always wanted to show you our home.” Lance chuckled through his tears.“It’s beautiful, Lance.” Keith whispered.Pidge bent down, picking a flower that they now recognized. The juniberry was bright, growing despite the darkness in Haggar’s mind.“Well, I wonder what crazy thing is gonna attack us now?”“Hunk!” The team shouted.“Dude, don’t jinx us!” Pidge punched his shoulder and Shiro shook his head.Allura and Lance turned away from the castle and Hunk shrugged. “What, I have a point. We keep getting attacked, it’s reasonable to say we’ll be attacked again.”Even so, nothing happened. Soon, the quiet got to be too much, too fake. It was stifling and Shiro was ready to fight something.“Well, is, is anything out of place or something? I mean, you two would know.” Keith asked.The Alteans looked around and Lance stopped first, staring at a dark red moon that filled most of the sky.“It is not one of Altea’s moons, though I do not know what it is.”“Then that must be the source.” Allura concluded.Lance summoned his bayard, the weapon looking small as he fired. Upon impact, the moon burst into pieces, glittery gold fragments falling upon the field. The Paladins watched and with a closer inspection, each speck had an image inside.They saw her graduating, finding the answer to the rift, marrying Zarkon, carrying a child in her arms, them leading Daibazaal, growing old while their children took over, there were so many images glittering in the evening sky.Allura held one carefully, watching as Honerva played with Lotor, her stomach swelled with another child on the way. She’d seen Haggar’s memories, but it was much different to see her wishes, the desires that were never fulfilled.Most of them contained Lotor and Zarkon, living a different life, a life of peace and happiness. Allura didn’t find it strange, after all, Haggar was just Honerva who had been poisoned by Quintessence and the dark entity.She was a woman who wanted a future with her family but instead, she watched her dreams all fade away.Haggar would never have her family again and that was a pain Allura understood all too well.“So, like, are this the things she wants? Cause, like, Zarkon and Lotor are both gone.” Hunk stated.“Maybe these are desires she wants but knows she can’t have?” Shiro tried to explain, he had plenty of those still in his head, dreams that couldn’t happen but he wished would.It was hard, picturing Haggar as the villain as they saw each and every one of her wishes. She wanted a family, she wanted a home, love, and stability. Pidge fought to find their family, Keith went undercover to find his. Allura and Lance lost their family just like Haggar did and for a while, Hunk and Shiro both lost theirs as well.Then, what made Haggar the villain and them the heroes?“Or, she’s trying to make happen.” Pidge said. “Remember Oriande, how she ripped open time and space to get Lotor’s suit? What if she’s doing the same thing, but different realities to find a family like this?”“Is that even possible?” Keith watched another desire fall to the ground, another dream that didn’t happen.Pidge shook their head. “Not without destroying all other realities in the process.”Lance stared up at the sky, heart heavy. Haggar wanted a family, that wasn’t too much to ask. Lance wished for Ferukis every quintant, wanting to change the quintant that Feru died. There were so many moments Lance wanted with his family, he knew what this felt like.And yet, he couldn’t imagine taking happiness from others to gain his family. How could Haggar? How could she fight so hard, knowing she would kill others in the process? How was it they knew so much about her and yet, Lance couldn’t understand her at all.Allura could feel the connection to the entity, its poison trying to reach her heart like it did with Haggar. She’d held onto it this whole time, using it to dig deeper and deeper into Haggar.Allura dropped the desire she was holding and closed her eyes, finally letting go of the entity. The Paladins groaned as the wind picked at them, forcing them into the air and toward a dark black hole. Allura stayed standing on the surface, White at her side as she let go of everything.Her hate.Her rage.Her anger.Allura was left with nothing but tears for the woman known as Honerva as she finally left Haggar’s mind.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Lance kept looking over his shoulder where Allura lay slumped on the floor. Blue was flying them back to the Atlas, but he was getting real tired of his sister passing out on him.The other Paladins kept asking what was going on, but Lance could answer them later. Once Blue docked, Lance ran out, carrying Allura to the medical bay again.He knew they shouldn’t have done this.Coran entered with the rest of the team. He sat closely, looking down on Allura sadly while the Paladins stood at the foot of her bed.{“I told you infiltrating Haggar’s mind was too dangerous. I told you all! This should not have happened, we could have fought another way. Instead, you let her connect with a mysterious entity, you used her to further your plans!”}Shiro held up his hands, meeting Coran’s angry eyes. “She wanted this, Coran. It doesn’t make this right, but most of us didn’t like the idea either.”{“Then why did you not stop her?”}Lance joined him, reaching for the man who had always been like an uncle. {“You know how she is, Coran. She is strong and she has always used that to her advantage.”}Coran sighed, sitting on the bed and reaching for Allura’s hand. {“I know. It has always been the best part about her. She stood up to everyone, King Alfor, Queen Melenor, even the Paladins of old. I am simply tired of looking down on her like this, fighting in a way I cannot.”}Lance settled a hand on his shoulder. {“She will pull through. You know she is stronger than this as well.”}“Paladins, please join us on the bridge.” Veronica said through the PA system.Coran and Lance left last, giving Allura one last look before going to see what was going on. Veronica had a map pulled up on the screen and the rest of the bridge crew were already there. Coran didn’t take the captain’s platform, but he did move close to Veronica.“We’ve been monitoring like you said and there hasn’t been a sign of Haggar since we left Oriande, until now. We’ve detected a wormhole signature at coordinates beta-four-ex-seven, sir.”“This is good news, but we will not be doing anything until Her Majesty wakes up.” The crew turned, everyone looking at Coran. “She needs time to rest and I will not put her at risk by entering a battle at this moment.”“Coran, are you sure about this? Voltron can fight and-”“And I am tired of watching my children lay in the medical bay. Entering fights without information has never benefited us and I will not do it again.” Coran interrupted Shiro. “You did your plan to gather information, now it is my turn. Veronica, keep watch for more signals, Curits, call all essential crew to the council room. The Captain is resting, but when she wakes we will have a plan to present to her.”The meeting was long and boring and if Lance was being honest, he wasn’t listening to much of it. Keith was going to do something with Krolia, Hunk was excited about a Balmera and Pidge was smirking about a new weapon.It didn’t matter what they planned, they couldn’t attack until Allura woke up. Lance wouldn’t let them. Allura had to be there to stop Haggar. She deserved to be there when she was stopped after killing their father, brother, and the Paladins.Eventually, the meeting ended and Lance found himself alone with Coran, Romelle and Liah.{“You will be alright staying here, Prince?”} Coran asked, referring to the fact that Romelle was going with Coran somewhere.{“Of course. Keith is going with Krolia so I get to spend more time with Zira. We shall watch over Allura while you complete your missions. I know she will be awake when you return.”}The Alteans left and Lance stood, turning to see Keith in the doorway.“She’s gonna be okay.”Lance sighed, sitting down and Keith moved the chair closer as he sat down. Lance reached out, glad when Keith accepted the contact without hesitation.{“I believe so, but I feel like we are not doing enough. We need to stop Haggar, this force of evil that has been around for a thousand decaphoebs. She has a plan that could destroy every reality, and all we have planned is for additional manpower and a prototype weapon. Allura put her life on the line and here I am, sitting, waiting.”}“I know it’s not ideal, but when is the last time anything has been ideal? I mean, do you remember how we even met, Prince?”Lance chuckled, thinking back to that dark prison and Keith’s glowing eyes. That would be quite the story to tell their children.“I remember when I first arrived at the Castle, when we first met as a complete team. She told us that we were the only ones who could pilot Voltron, the only ones to save the universe. She hated my guts, but she had faith in Voltron, even though she had no idea what was going to happen.”{“Yes, and back then I was cocky enough to actually believe I was the greatest pilot in the universe.”}Keith nudged Lance’s shoulder. “I liked that though. And before meeting you and the others, I thought I could do anything by myself. We’ve come a long way since then.”{“Yes, though which of us did not reach out for aid the first night Zira could not sleep?”} Lance poked fun and Keith rolled his eyes. {“But you are right, we have grown, in ways we never would have without Voltron.”}Keith stood and Lance followed. “We haven’t lost until we’ve lost all hope. You’ve given me hope, with you and the team, we’ll fight until the very end.”{“Let us finish what the Paladins of old started, let us end this war. Together.”}Lance reached for Keith, holding his jaw and tugging him close. Keith didn’t resist, a small smile on his face as they leaned in. They kissed softly, unrushed and unworried. Time didn’t exist, the universe was just them, here and now. Lance forgot about Haggar and the war, all he thought about was Keith.The kiss stayed soft as well and Lance pulled away first, resting his head against Keith as he closed his eyes.“Come back safe, Ma Socii.”{“I will, my Nilo.”}Red and Yellow left moments later and Lance found himself with Zira in Allura’s room. Lance sat on the bed, holding Purple for her while she walked around the room.She was a curious child, always looking to understand things. Her favorite word was ‘what’ and the crew quickly learned to explain whatever she was pointing at.[“Lany.”] She said again and he looked over to see her looking at the microscope.Lance left the bed, pulling it off the table and setting it on the floor as he sat down. Zira was on hands and knees, eyes watching the item intensely.{“This is a microscope. Mic-ro-scope. You can see little things up close and larger. You look through these glasses.”}Zira did so, putting her face into position.{“These, move the glasses.”} Lance put her hands on the focus.She began to twist, letting out a laugh as her vision changed. Lance hadn’t thought to stop her or monitor her, not until that was a sharp snapping sound.[“Uh-oh. Broked it.”] Zira pulled out and pointed at the now broken glass.Lance scooped it up, walking to a far corner of the room and pushing it behind several other items on the shelf. He then turned around, whispering as he knelt down.{“Do not tell Sam or Romelle. It is our little secret, yes?”}She giggled, holding a finger over her lips. [“Little see-ket, Lany.”]With that she resumed her search of the room, stopping near Allura’s bed, head peeking just above the covers[“She sleepin. We possed ta be quiet?”] Zira tilted her head.Lance shook his head and Zira dropped the finger she was holding over her lips. {“No, Z. We do not need to whisper, I have a feeling not even an attack could wake her up.”}She whined, turning back at Lance before looking at Allura. Lance pulled her up, setting her on the bed while Lance sat on a chair next to Allura.[“Why she sleepin? It’s playtime, not nap time, Lany.”][“She is tired, sometimes adults like us need naps as well.”][“She sicky?”]Lance chuckled, always amazed my Zira’s mind and how she connected things.[“Yes, she is sick but she will be better soon.”]Zira leaned down, pressing a wet kiss to Allura’s cheek before grinning. [“All betta now!”]Lance pulled her off the bed, spinning around to distract himself from crying.Allura had to wake up, not only to win this war. But because she had family waiting for them. Lance was waiting for her and he couldn’t imagine a world without her.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Hunk was lighter than air, happier than someone celebrating their birthday and shining brighter than the freaking sun. Yeah, things were rough right now and Allura was unconscious but Hunk felt so light.Shay was waiting for him!He’d reached out to her weeks ago, unsure of what her situation was or if she was even alive. She’d sent one back, short and sweet and it wasn’t much.This new message though, Hunk would read it over and over, singing Matt’s praises for him writing down all of her words.‘My dearest Hunk, forgive me as we have been in hiding. Balmera was attacked many times, and many of my people gave their lives protecting our home. To save more of our people, we decided to move our home, to go quiet just as you did.I wished to contact you as soon as I heard you were alive, that Voltron was seen. I feared bringing more adversaries to Balmera and I hesitated. Words that you are safe bring me much hope, they fill me with light.I miss you, terribly so. I wait for you still, I continue to carve your gift. I hope your feelings for me have not changed either unless they have grown stronger.Please send more messages, I will accept them whenever we are able. I miss you, Hunk, I will see you soon.Yours, Shay.’She missed him! And it wasn’t even a question, they would see each other, and they would live happily ever after!They just had to, stop Haggar from ripping the universe apart again.Coran had told them to gather in the council room, needing to come up with a plan to fight back while Allura rested.The room filled up, the MFEs, crew, Paladins, Blades and rebels all looking toward Shiro who stood at the front with Pidge. Krolia, Kolivan and Jemez represented the Blades while Matt and O’Sem stood for the rebels and Romelle was there as well, most likely because of Liah and Coran.“We now know why Haggar retrieved Lotor’s mech.” Shiro began. “Since it’s made out of the same comet ore as Voltron, it has the ability to pierce realities. Haggar is going to use Lotor’s mech to find her version of a perfect reality.”{“Perfect reality? What is she even looking for?”} Romelle asked.Shiro shook his head. “We don’t really know, but we think it might have something to do with her family and she’s searching for it right now.”“Trans-reality ore has been traveling between realities for millions of years and it’s a naturally occurring phenomenon. The problem is, what Haggar is doing is forcing that process to happen, which could have catastrophic side effects on this and any reality she travels through.” Pidge explained.“So, what’s the plan? Maybe we can, we can make a giant tractor beam? Sam, you could do that, right? Make a giant tractor beam? We could pull her to us and then, then boom! We stun her with like electricity or something. Pidge, we can make a prison for her, right?” Hunk searched the table, but everyone’s faces were grim.“There is no plan, Hunk.” Keith sat with his arms crossed. “We know what Haggar wants to do and where she is, but we have nowhere near the power to fight her. She has Komars and whatever she’s built with Lotor’s suit. We can barely take on one, let alone whatever arm she’s created.”“Coran is right, we have to do something and we’ll do what we can to prepare for battle. Contact the Coalition, gather anyone willing and able to fight with whatever ships. When Allura is ready, we’ll strike.” Shiro said.“We’ve been tracking a Galra fleet within our vicinity. Our intel shows they have a Zaiforge cannon. I can take a small team and commandeer the ship, using the cannon to our advantage.” Krolia suggested.“Why don’t you, Acxa and Jemez take Commander Lahn and try to recruit them to our side? We don’t want to fight more battles than we have to, we want to make peace with all the Galra.”“In the meantime, Slav and I have been working on prototype upgrades for the Atlas’ weapon system.” Sam smiled, before the smile faded. “Of course, we’ll have to somehow find extra power for them.”Slav sighed. “Always making the most amazing things in the universe, but never having enough power to run them.”“New weapons? I’ll give you guys a hand with that.” Pidge beamed and Matt had a matching grin.“And I may know where we can get the extra power. There is a small Balmera in this sector.” Coran said.Hunk pumped his fist into the air. “Alright! A little trip to a Balmera, sounds great!”“We have a plan, and everyone stay focused while we finish preparing. The moment we are ready, we’ll move to attack.” Shiro dismissed them and Hunk waited for Coran and Romelle before going to where the Altean Pilots were staying.{“I hope you are alright with me inviting Romelle. She is interested in the rituals and I do think she would connect well with the Balmerans.”}“Oh, it’s fine, Coran. The more the merrier. In fact, we should all go! Really, I’m just too happy to be worried.”{“Yes, I heard, you got a message from dear Shay. That is great news, my boy.”}Hunk couldn’t stop the shining smile on his face and he wasn’t sure if his feet were even touching the ground.Shay was waiting for him!They reached the cell, detainment room, whatever it was called and Romelle entered.{“I will be gone for a short while accompanying Hunk and Coran to a Balmera, we are gathering our forces.”} Romelle explained.{“I can only hope, through your actions, that our people can make some small amends for what we have done.”} Tavo said, though there were several Alteans who didn’t look to have the same feelings.Maybe the dark entity was at fault, that thing wasn’t all that great to be connected to.{“Romelle, if there is anything we can do to assist you...”}{“Well, we could use some more help on the Balmera.”} Romelle glanced over and Coran nodded. {“Its life source is strengthened by Altean energy.”}One of the others talked this time. {“We wish we could join you, but that may not be wise. We still have the entity within us, we can feel it. I cannot say what she will do with it still living within us.”}Tavo stood and moved forward. {“Let me go with you. I wish to help.”}{“Oh, Tavo! Thank you, I truly appreciate this.”} Romelle looked ready to jump over and hug him, but she stayed still as she addressed the others. {“Stay strong. The Coalition will stop Haggar before anything will happen to you.”}Yellow flew toward the Balmara, guided by Coran’s directions. Soon they came upon a familiar planet, this one green with shining blue crystals. It had spikes coming from the surface and Hunk couldn’t wait to meet these new Balmerans.They landed and Hunk ran out, greeting the group of Balmerans waiting. They were all quite tall with similar features to Shay and her family. They had colorful robes, and hats on their head and their faces were all quite serious.|”Hello! I’m Hunk and it’s such a pleasure to meet you all. This is Coran-”|{“Coranis Hieronymus Wimbleton Smythe, Royal Advisor to Queen Alluradell of Altea, at your service.”} Coran bowed dramatically.|”-and Romelle. We’re members of the Voltron Coalition.”|One stepped forward and tilted his head.|”Do, do you understand me? I mean, that would be nice, I need to practice for Shay.”|The Balmeran clicked their tongue and Hunk had no idea what that meant.“Uh, Coran?”Coran leaned in, whispering. {“I have spoken many languages, working with several planets and people and I cannot comprehend their communication.”}Okay, so even Coran was stumped, that wasn't a good sign.|”You, you have crystals, right?”|Another click.|”Do, uh, do you know about someone called Haggar?”|The Balmeran sucked air through their teeth and slightly shook their head. Hunk nodded, getting a hang of this language thing.|”Okay, so, we’re fighting this bad guy and we really, really need a crystal. But don’t worry, these amazing Alteans with me are ready to give energy for the trade. Is, is that okay?”|The Balmeran clicked his tongue and whistled before going into the tunnel. They followed, entering a system of caves with veins of crystals shining. With the light the tunnels weren’t fully dark and they found themselves in a large area with several crystals growing.Hunk shared a grin with Coran, ready to get to work.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

It was hard, watching Lance struggle with Allura. Nothing could fix the situation, Allura would just have to wake up on her own. Still, Keith wished there was something he could do.When everyone left, Keith stayed, sitting with Lance. “She’s gonna be okay.”Lance sat down with a sigh, one hand reaching out. Keith held on, he knew Lance loved touch more than he did.{“I believe so, but I feel like we are not doing enough. We need to stop Haggar, this force of evil that has been around for a thousand decaphoebs. She has a plan that could destroy every reality, and all we have planned is for additional manpower and a prototype weapon. Allura put her life on the line and here I am, sitting, waiting.”}“I know it’s not ideal, but when is the last time anything has been ideal? I mean, do you remember how we even met, Prince?” Keith asked with a grin.Back then he hated his whole situation and then, The Prince burst through the room, hair shining and marks glowing. Lance changed everything.“I remember when I first arrived at the Castle, when we first met as a complete team. She told us that we were the only ones who could pilot Voltron, the only ones to save the universe. She hated my guts, but she had faith in Voltron, even though she had no idea what was going to happen.”{“Yes, and back then I was cocky enough to actually believe I was the greatest pilot in the universe.”}Keith nudged Lance’s shoulder, keeping the mood positive. “I liked that though. And before meeting you and the others, I thought I could do anything by myself. We’ve come a long way since then.”{“Yes, though which of us did not reach out for aid the first night Zira could not sleep? But you are right, we have grown, in ways we never would have without Voltron.”}Keith stood and Lance stood with him. “We haven’t lost until we’ve lost all hope. You’ve given me hope, with you and the team, we’ll fight until the very end.”{“Let us finish what the Paladins of old started, let us end this war. Together.”}Lance gently pulled at his jaw and Keith let himself be moved toward Lance. They kissed softly, unrushed and unworried. Time didn’t exist, the universe was just them, here and now. Keith forgot about the mission and the fight, all he had was Lance.The kiss stayed soft as well and Lance pulled away first, resting his head against Keith with his eyes closed.“Come back safe, Ma Socii.”{“I will, my Nilo.”}Keith was ready to be with his mom, sister and cousin. They’d visited the Atlas several times, Kolivan came for plenty of meetings, but there was nothing quite like a mission to bring a family together. Well, that and a cockpit that was entirely too small for four adults to stand comfortably.Keith wasn’t so sure Acxa felt the same way.[“So, whatcha been doing, Acxa? I mean, we haven’t seen you in a tick or two.”] Jemez asked.[“I am on the Atlas, you can visit whenever you wish.”][“But why don’t you visit us? I mean, I’ve had Keith as my only cousin for decaphoebs and he’s absolutely boring. He doesn’t even raid the cookie jar with me anymore.”]Acxa turned, a frown on her face. [“Cookie. Jar.”][“Oh, my Kaltor, what is with you guys? Did you both grow up under a rock?”][“Father died, passed around several homes, many that were abusive and never really had a family.”][“Mother left, then my Mama died leaving me jobless and homeless until I was taken in by a woman who used me to pacify the Galra Empire.”]Jemez held up her hands, backing down. Lahn sighed, holding the bridge of his nose.[“Alright then, what did you use to do for fun, or what do you do now on the Atlas. I mean, I know I wasn’t raised all that special either, the training ground was my playground as a child.”][“Well, if you must know, I go shooting with a partner.”]Keith looked over at that, surprised that Acxa was working with anyone. She told him herself that after leaving Ezor and Zethrid and how all her past relationships had gone, she had some severe trust issues. Who the hell did she like enough to talk to regularly?Acxa didn’t talk, she just kept inspecting her blade, ignoring their eyes until Jemez groaned. [“Well! Tell us! Who is it?”][“Veronica.”][“Veronica? Like, Veronica McClain, Veronica?”]Acxa turned toward him, her eyes suddenly cutting. [“Yes, do you have a problem with that, Keithir? If you do, say so to my face.”][“No! No, no problem. I’m just, surprised. She’s so, nice and you’re so...”]Keith liked his sister but she wasn’t, easy to deal with, some might say.[“I am what, Keithir. Finish. Your. Sentence.”] Acxa pulled out her blade.Keith looked over at Jemez but she was grinning like she was watching a movie.[“Nothing. You’re fine and I bet she’ll get used to you.”]Acxa glared once before turning her gaze down.[“Well, I think this is wonderful, Acxandra. Veronica is a wonderful woman.”] Krolia said and Keith didn’t miss how Acxa’s eyes shined.Lahn leaned his head back, sighing once more. [“How much longer?”][“A varga or so, it isn’t far.”]He held his head in his hands and groaned. [“Oh, why did I agree to this? Why did I agree to this?”]Keith didn’t know why he was so upset, they hadn’t done anything to him.Thankfully, there was nothing for them to fight as they reached the base and with Lahn there, they landed without yet another fight.It felt so wrong, landing a ship right before the base. He was so used to sneaking around as a Blade or fighting as a Paladin. This diplomacy stuff would take a long time to get used to.And apparently, negotiations took a long time as well.Lahn was talking to What’s-His-Face, trying to convince the Galra that by joining the fight they would be bringing honor to the Empire. That the Galra were meant to work together and fight together like they had in the past.The Commander didn’t look like he was going to break anytime soon and Acxa seemed ready to kill and steal his ship like Krolia had planned. In fact, everyone at the table was out of patience and Keith had no idea why any of them were doing this.Though, he understood why the Galra fought so much. They didn’t have the patience for diplomacy and compromise.[“So, you’re saying that by fighting with the enemies of Emperor Zarkon, I am bringing honor to our people?”] What’s-His-Name asked for like, the fourth time.[“Yes. Haggar brought an end to his reign and thus, by killing her, we bring honor to our empire.”] Lahn hissed, lying his ass off.[“So, we will be working with the Altean Coalition, the very people that once destroyed our great planet?”][“It is the Voltron Coalition and we may be working with the Alteans but if you wish, you can work with only Galra.”] Lahn lied again.[“So-”] Keith slammed his fist into the table, deciding it was better than killing the Commander.[“Would you just shut up! If you say one more word I’ll-”][“What my dear Ki is trying to say, is that we don’t have time to wait.”] Jemez interrupted, sending Keith a glare. [“Haggar has gathered her forces, she has built weapons that can kill an entire planet should she wish to. Even if you survived her literally ripping the universe apart, how do you plan on fighting her on your own?[“I understand that this is not easy for you, that this goes against everything you had been raised to believe. But if you don’t fight with us, everyone will die, including you and your men. Victory or Death, Commander Vicard. Will you sit here and let death come to you or will you fight?”]Oh, so that was his name.The Commander nodded and stood, holding out his arm for Jemez to take. [“My ships are yours.”][“Great!”] Keith threw up his arms and left the table. [“Lahn will be with you for the fight, he’ll be there to keep things on track.”][“Oh, thank Kaltor.”] Lahn whispered.[“Are we leaving then?”] Acxa asked.Krolia nodded, though Keith noticed her hand still lingering on her blade. Acxa finally threw her blade, impacting the panel that opened the door for them to leave. Keith couldn’t understand why anyone was so worried about this, they were fucking great negotiators.

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There always was some sort of power rush, standing beside Shiro while looking around the table. Here they were, still technically a child as they taught those older than them. Pidge liked it way too much, but they weren’t going to stop.Nah, this was fun.“Trans-reality ore has been traveling between realities for millions of years and it’s a naturally occurring phenomenon. The problem is, what Haggar is doing is forcing that process to happen, which could have catastrophic side effects on this and any reality she travels through.” Pidge explained to the humans who had no idea what was really going on.“So, what’s the plan? Maybe we can, we can make a giant tractor beam? Sam, you could do that, right? Make a giant tractor beam? We could pull her to us and then, then boom! We stun her with like electricity or something. Pidge, we can make a prison for her, right?” Hunk searched for an answer but this time, Pidge had none.“There is no plan, Hunk.” Keith sat with his arms crossed. “We know what Haggar wants to do and where she is, but we have nowhere near the power to fight her. She has Komars and whatever she’s built with Lotor’s suit. We can barely take on one, let alone whatever arm she’s created.”“Coran is right, we have to do something and we’ll do what we can to prepare for battle. Contact the Coalition, gather anyone willing and able to fight with whatever ships. When Allura is ready, we’ll strike.” Shiro said.“We’ve been tracking a Galra fleet within our vicinity. Our intel shows they have a Zaiforge cannon. I can take a small team and commandeer the ship, using the cannon to our advantage.” Krolia suggested.“Why don’t you, Acxa and Jemez take Commander Lahn and try to recruit them to our side? We don’t want to fight more battles than we have to, we want to make peace with all the Galra.”“In the meantime, Slav and I have been working on prototype upgrades for the Atlas’ weapon system.” Sam smiled, before the smile faded. “Of course, we’ll have to somehow find extra power for them.”Slav sighed. “Always making the most amazing things in the universe, but never having enough power to run them.”“New weapons? I’ll give you guys a hand with that.” Pidge beamed, looking over to see Matt with the same look.Oh yeah, this was gonna be fun!With that, Pidge was right back in the belly of the beast, looking over Dad’s shoulder at the blueprints while Matt stood on the other side. Pidge gave Matt a smile, the Holts were back at it again, making things and kicking ass!“The weapon we’re trying to create uses the Atlas’ current cannon array. Slav correctly identified that after the cannon fires, the chamber discharges atoms along with trace elements of thorium.”“But it was your father who came up with the idea to actually use the atoms and thorium discharge!” Slav appeared before them and Pidge sighed.Yes, the Holts and, and Slav were back at it again.“You want to turn out cannons into a thorium ray?” Matt asked.Slav turned, meeting Matt’s eyes. “That’s exactly what I asked!”Dad shrugged. “Well, all the elements are already there. It could work.”Ah, yes, the best word in the English language. ‘Could.’ That way, if they failed, Dad didn’t technically lie. Could meant so many things to a scientist and inventor.“He’s right! All we need is an atomic trajectory, which should be easy enough based on the path of the cannon. And, of course, we’ll need that extra power. Also! We’ll need to jump up and down on one foot, count to three and shout out our favorite type of metal, color or planetary atmosphere.”Like hell Pidge was ever going to do that.“We don’t have time for that.” Pidge cut in.Slav held one hand to his chest as he gasped. “You’re telling me you don’t have time to live? One, two, three. Aluminum!”The Holts all sighed in unison, knowing that they all signed up for this very task.They set to work, adjusting the ship, the programming and everything else for the upgrade. As long as the programming and coding was right, they could fire off as soon as they had the energy source. This meant all three Holts were busy, typing away as they made minor adjustments.And when possible, Pidge asked Matt about Sem, his new girlfriend. It was hilarious, watching Matt blush as if Pidge hadn’t seen them in compromising situations before.“One, two, three, Troposphere.”Yeah, that wasn’t something they liked thinking about. Still, it was nice seeing him light up and talk about how amazing she was while they coded. Matt was so stupidly in love, it was terrible to watch but amazing to know.If anyone deserved to find love, it was Matt. But Pidge would never actually tell him that. But they were going to be the Demon Bait of Honor.“One, two, three. Blue!”“So, what’s Sem think about the Atlas then? She’s a fighter pilot, right?”“Oh yeah, she’s loving it. I still need to arrange a competition between her and Prince Lance. I think that would be awesome to watch.”“And he would totally go for it. Tell Lance he can’t jump and he’ll do anything to prove you wrong. Keith takes advantage of this all the time, daring him to do stupid things like how many flips he can do in zero gravity. Which, fun fact, Alteans can’t vomit. They just get really really sick like they’re gonna.”“And how many experiments have you done without the Altean’s knowledge?” Matt raised a brow.“So many, you wouldn’t believe how naïve they are. Like the fact that they won’t get brain freezes no matter how much ice cream they eat.”“One, two, three. Lead!”“Gotta ask, what’s up with Sem’s helmet? Like if it’s personal you don’t gotta answer but I’ve never seen her take it off and like, how does she eat or drink?”“She takes it off sometimes, Pidgeon. But it’s a thing she wears and I’d like to say she’s taught me to communicate better. Do you have any idea how hard it is to read someone when you can’t see their face or eyes? For the first while, I really thought she hated me because I wasn’t used to her tone.”“Well, maybe she did hate you, you have that kinda face.”“Oh, fuck off, ya gremlin.”“Make me.” Pidge stuck out their tongue.“One, two, three. Aluminum!”Pidge clenched their hands, wishing for just a moment of peace. Talking to Matt or Dad was nothing like listening to Slav shout random words as he jumped up and down. And honestly, it got annoying, several, several, several minutes ago.They’d been working for over an hour.“One, two, thre-”“We are so close, so close, to finishing this cannon upgrade.” Pidge finally broke. “Why the hell do you keep doing that?”“What I don’t understand is why aren’t you joining me? I’ve explained data point probability extrapolation multiple times! Is it too hard to believe that small changes can alter entire reality trajectories?”“No. That's not hard to believe.” Pidge turned back to their computer. “What’s hard to believe is that someone can predict the future based on probabilities calculated from random data points.”Slav just held up a device, showing a hologram of a planet or something. Pidge turned around and Matt leaned over, both of them suddenly interested.“Wait, you’ve actually done that?” Matt asked.“I calculate future probabilities in my spare time for fun.” Slav said with a smug ass look before his eyes narrowed. “And trust me, if this one does not change, the trajectory we’re on will lead us to total annihilation. A reality-ending event with repercussions through space-time itself. Everything that is, that ever will be and that ever was, will cease to exist in the blink of an eye. One, two, three. Blue!”“One, two, three. Palladium!”“One, two, three. Rhodium!”“One, two, three. Blue!”Pidge, Matt and Slav all said at once, hoping three times on one foot, of course. Dad just chuckled, shaking his head at their actions. Hey, Slav had gotten them this far and Pidge really didn’t give a shit.“One, two, three. Green!”“One, two, three. Yellow!”“One, two, three. Lead!”They jumped for a while, shouting out words while Dad finished the last code. With that done, they went up to the bridge. Pidge let out a laugh, seeing Allura there just took all the stress off Pidge’s shoulders.Maybe they had a chance, maybe they could save this universe.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

With Coran and Allura unavailable, technically Shiro was next in line as captain. Which meant, while his team worked to prepare, he was left on the bridge, waiting.Keith had gone with Krolia to gather as many as they could, Hunk was with Coran, getting the energy Pidge and Sam needed for a new weapon and the rebels were sending whatever messages they could to gather fighters.This was the difficult part before a battle, just waiting for everything to fall into place.“We got another wormhole signature!”Shiro sighed, that was the fifth one they had identified within the last hour. He really didn’t like this, Kuron was itching for a fight and Shiro sort of agreed.If they just stopped Haggar, the Coalition could finally do what they were made to do. They could bring peace, the Alteans and Galra could find homes and everything would be worked out.Why did someone have to come along, threatening the universe every five minutes? Shiro just saved them a moment ago.“Veronica, have you been able to find out any patterns to these locations?”“Negative, Commander Shirogane. Nothing new.” She said and he was glad she didn’t call him captain.He wasn’t ready for that. At least right now.“Is Haggar sending those things of hers out across the universe again?” Curtis asked.“She could be. Or, she’s doing something else.”{“Is, is there anything else we can, we can do?”}Shiro shook his head. “We are doing what we can. It takes time to prepare for battle. For now, all we can do is wait, and watch.”The door opened and to Shiro’s surprise, Adam walked in, without his cane as well. Shiro stepped down, but held up his hands when Adam raised an eyebrow.“I’m not helping you, I’m just wondering, what brings you here?”“Bored.” Adam shrugged his shoulders, but Shiro noticed him looking at the screens.“Well, Coran isn’t here, would you like to be my helmsman?” Shiro gestured to the empty chair.Adam grinned, taking the seat and soon he was busy searching through reports. Shiro stood by him, maybe he was hovering but he couldn’t help it.Adam with his eye narrowed at the screen was way too attractive for no reason.“You’re hovering.”“No I’m not.”Adam looked over and Shiro realized how far forward he was leaning. He took a giant step back, still smiling at Adam.“Don’t you need to, do something? Anything?”“Nope. I’m good.”Adam shook his head, but Shiro noticed the grin he was wearing. With the left side of his face damaged, it gave him a bit of a crooked smile and Shiro liked it. Adam was so handsome, how did he get so lucky to date someone so amazing?“Are you sure? I mean, I’m just gonna look through what you guys have found.”“Yeah, and I’m just gonna watch my crew and make sure everything’s okay. You know, like a captain does.”Someone snorted and he looked over, noticing Veronica and Liah giggling. Shiro continued to grin, he didn’t mind it. He wasn’t going to hide how much he loved Adam.“Wait a minute. Veronica, cross-check those latest coordinates with our patrol squadrons.” Curtis suddenly said.“I see. It appears we have a long-range scout in the area. Zulu-beta-one-one.”“Great. Get me on comms with the squadron commander immediately.” Shiro ordered and Adam did so. [“Commander Ozar, we need your team to do some reconnaissance for us.”][“Yes sir.”][“Great. We’re sending you the coordinates now. This is an intelligence-gathering mission. Keep your distance and run only essential systems. Do not engage, we’re dealing with Haggar.”][“Copy that, sir.”]From the Atlas, they were able to watch as Ozar moved his team into the area, comms open for them to hear anything they found.[“We’re coming around. Should have a visual in a few ticks.”] Ozar’s lieutenant said.[“Keep us hidden in the asteroid cluster. Bring up our monitors.”]An image came onto the screen, showing a familiar pyramid floating in space.[“I’ve never seen a ship like that before, and there’s something behind it.”][“Adjust angle. Find out what that thing is.”] Ozar ordered.The ships changed their position, silently creeping closer to where Haggar was hiding. This time they saw the back of the castle and it seemed like there was a figure out in space, staring at a purple star. The ship zoomed in, showing a dark mech suit with purple lining. It was tall and shaped like a human except for the horn at the top of the head.Haggar had built a suit of her own so she could travel reality just like Lotor could.Suddenly a Komar showed up and the rebels were under attack. The screens cut out, leaving them only with sounds and the trackers.[“Evasive maneuvers! Open fire!”]The four ships spread out, each of them trying to avoid the Komar. One of them cut out, destroyed by the Komar and it was shortly followed by another ship going dark.[“Ozar! Get your men out of there!”] Shiro shouted at the screen.[“Fall back! Fa-”]“Commander, we’ve lost the connection!” Veronica explained.Shiro clenched his fist, staring at the dark screen. He hoped Keith and Hunk came back soon, Shiro was done losing good men.Time slipped by and soon, there came another report from Veronica.“Haggar has made another jump. Bringing up her location now.”“That star system, it’s where Altea and Daibazaal once existed. She, she’s chosen a battlefield. That's where she’s going to cross through reality.”At that moment, the door opened and Lance, Zira and Allura walked in. Lance had his arm around Allura’s waist, though she seemed to stand strong all by herself. Shiro moved closer, smiling at her.“Allura. You have no idea how happy I am that you’re here. How are you feeling?”“I am a little weak, but I will manage. What is happening, where is Haggar?”“She’s gone back to the Altean star system and we know she has the Komars as well as another strange suit. She’s gathering energy, she’s going to open a new reality any moment.”{“What about the others, Keith and Hunk are still on a mission.”}“Veronica, open up a channel to Red and Yellow.” Allura said.Hunk and Keith showed up on the screen, though Hunk was on a planet still while Keith was flying with Red.“Hey guys! Oh, my gosh! Allura! I’m so happy to see you. You doing alright?”“I am fine, thank you. What is your status.”“Commander Vicard is with us, we’re flying back to the Atlas now.”“Well, we found a new Balmera and new Balmerans. Say hi!” Hunk stepped away but the Balmerans didn’t move from their spot. “Oh, yeah, they aren’t talkers really. Anyway, we’re having trouble finding a big enough crystal. But, uh, don’t worry, Coran came up with a crazy plan that just might work.”Coran came into view. “It is not crazy. It is a very level-headed, reasonable plan. Why, it is the opposite of crazy.”“Do what you must, Coran. When you are ready, we will have a wormhole for you.”{“Allura! You are alright! Oh, thank Groggery, the ancients, and all above! I was so worried about you, after what happened...”}{“Thank you, Coran, really. And I must apologize for our last interaction. I was not, myself. Even so, I fear we must save this for another time when we are not preparing for battle. Finish your preparations, we need to leave as soon as possible.”}{“Understood. I shall see you soon, my dear.”} Coran cut the transmission.Everyone stepped aside, waiting for Allura to take the controls but this time, she didn’t step up. She turned to face Lance before gesturing.{“Me? No, no, you see, I do not do wormholes. You, Father, Helga, you all have such connections with the Quintessence of the universe. I, I do not. I do not know if I even could-”}{“I am still recovering and the Atlas holds onto any stray energy. All you must do is concentrate, picture Keith rejoining us and then us going to Altea. You are a Prince of Altea just as I am Queen, you can do this.”}Lance hesitated for a moment more before stepping onto the platform. He looked over and Shiro smiled sending his encouragement.“The first step is to believe in yourself, Lance. After that, everything flows easier.”He nodded before closing his eyes and eventually, his hands began to glow white. A wormhole formed before their eyes, slower than usual but it was there. Shiro watched Lance, as his smile grew, his marks glowed, and his eyes shined with true joy.Red came flying through followed by several Galra cruisers. With this, they would have a small army to face off Haggar and every ship gave them a better chance.Lance opened another wormhole and Allura stood at the front as Captain once more.“Crew, prepare to wormhole. We are going to Altea.”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Hanerva’s head pounded as she closed the link between herself and Allura. Hand over her chest, she stumbled over to the stairs, sitting for a moment.She’d hoped to reach the princess, to gain access and discover where they were. She knew she was opening her mind but she had walls blocking everything that was important.She underestimated Voltron. They broke through every single one and though she didn’t know what they found, she knew she couldn’t hesitate any longer.Hanerva left her room, standing tall as she entered the control room. Three Alteans worked, keeping the pyramid steady as they flew through the wormhole.Merla turned, bowing upon Hanerva’s entrance.{“Exit at coordinates beta-four-ex-seven. The Paladins are aware of our plans.”}{“Is that a problem, Great Mother?”}Hanerva smirked, everything was finally coming together. {“No. An Advantage.”}The wormhole opened once more, and Hanerva left the bridge. The Alteans had their orders, the Komars were ready and Hanvera wasn’t going to waste any more time.Down at the base of the pyramid was a room locked to everyone but her and the technicians. Across a platform stood a large suit, grey, orange and blue parts standing out from the black metal. Her son sacrificed his life and his suit was destroyed, but it would continue to serve.Hanerva put on the flight suit, pulling her hair on top of her head, crown still upon her forehead. She entered the pod after that, and it was lifted up into the helmet of her new suit. Her hands rested on the controls and her mind was linked with the mech.The suit closed up as the top of the pyramid opened up. The suit launched, hovering in open space. Black metal shone with purple lights glowing across the suit’s body. Extending from the shoulders was a ring that had several glowing purple shards hanging.The ring was then moved away, the shards following to form a star-like pattern before her. Using Lotor’s brilliant sincline ships, Hanerva tore a hole through space and time to find exactly what she was looking for.Her family.While Hanerva searched, her dutiful Alteans kept watch, waiting for Voltron’s attack. They wouldn’t wait long, no doubt they would run into the fight without preparing anything. The Komars would take care of them while Hanerva worked.A report came in later, a signal saying that ships were spotted. They were dealt with quickly.Then finally, she found it, a reality that she would make her own. It was perfect, everything was perfect.Nothing would stand in her way now.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Allura woke up to see Lance and Zira in the room, dancing and laughing. She stayed still, just watching them for a moment.This is what she was fighting for.With the entity poisoning her, Allura had only felt rage. She had wanted to kill Haggar, to make her pay and suffer like she had. Allura was angry, torn to pieces and bitter. She’d lost herself in the war, acting as a vengeful warrior instead of a Queen.She wondered if Haggar felt the same way. After all, she used to be Honerva, the patient scientist who loved the world. Maybe she was twisted, her mind so full of rage she couldn’t even think anymore. It didn’t excuse her actions, but it sure would explain some things.With the rage gone, all Allura felt was tired. Tired of fighting at every bend for a war that should have ended forever ago. And she felt for Haggar, a woman so lost, she was willing to destroy everything for the chance at happiness.She deserved to pay for her crimes, to realize she was in the wrong. At the same time, she deserved to rest as well after fighting for so long.[“Ura!”] Zira cried the strange nickname.Zira wiggled so much that Lance was forced to put her down. Zira crawled on the bed and Allura held her close.[“Did you miss me?”][“I fix you! Kiss all betta, like Mama.”][“Really!”] Allura gasped and Zira giggled. [“Well, that explains why I feel so wonderful. Thank you so very much, Doctor Kazir.”][“You welcome!”]Lance sat down, eyes soft. {“You are better then, truly, Lura?”}{“Yes, Lance. I am tired and weak but I do not plan on reaching out to any dark entity any time soon, do not worry.”}Lance stared at her for a while, as if he could see how wounded she was. She stared him down, unwilling to fight in front of Zira. Finally he relented and relaxed.{“Good. Because I fear that if you do so again, Coran will kill the rest of us this time.”}Allura sighed. {“Oh, what did he do?”}{“You do not want to know. Trust me. Now, do you feel alright enough to go to the Bridge or shall we wait longer? The choice is up to you.”}[“Well, Doctor Kazir, am I alright enough to leave?”]Zira hummed, thinking for a moment. [“Yes! All betta! Go now?”]This time Zira looked to Lance, waiting for permission. Lance smiled and nodded.{“Yes. Let us go see what is going on with Keef.”}[“Keef!”] Zira launched herself off the bed, not even waiting for Allura to get up.Lance helped her, holding her while Zira bounded toward the bridge. Allura knew Lance was still concerned, his grip on her waist said so. She just leaned in, glad that Lance was still fighting by her side.When they entered the crew stood, all of them smiling at her. Shiro moved over a bright look on his face.“Allura. You have no idea how happy I am that you’re here. How are you feeling?”“I am a little weak, but I will manage. What is happening, where is Haggar?”“She’s gone back to the Altean star system and we know she has the Komars as well as another strange suit. She’s gathering energy, she’s going to open a new reality any moment.”{“What about the others, Keith and Hunk are still on a mission.”}“Veronica, open up a channel to Red and Yellow.” Allura said.Hunk and Keith showed up on the screen, though Hunk was on a planet still while Keith was flying with Red. Lance had to cover Zira’s mouth to keep her from yelling. Oh, that girl was obsessed with Keith, following him around like a baby du-flax.Keith and Hunk checked in, Keith was almost there while Hunk was on the Balmera. Coran was there as well and she nearly cried when Coran didn’t turn a cold shoulder on her. She’d said something terrible before, words she didn’t mean.She’d apologize as soon as they were done with this, she would apologize to the whole team as well.Coran said that they weren’t quite done and though she wanted to wait for the weapon to be tested, Allura knew they wouldn’t have that long.With the transmission cut, everyone stepped aside, waiting for Allura to take the controls. She didn’t move, turning to look at Lance instead. She knew he was hesitant about his power, about what he could do with Quintessence. He might not have been chosen for Oriande, but he was just as strong. Most definitely strong enough to open a wormhole.Lance realized that she was looking at him and he began to wave his hands and shake his head. {“Me? No, no, you see, I do not do wormholes. You, Father, Helga, you all have such connections with the Quintessence of the universe. I, I do not. I do not know if I even could-”}{“I am still recovering and the Atlas holds onto any stray energy. All you must do is concentrate, picture Keith rejoining us and then us going to Altea. You are a Prince of Altea just as I am Queen, you can do this.”}Lance hesitated for a moment more before stepping onto the platform. Next to him, Shiro smiled, offering support.“The first step is to believe in yourself, Lance. After that, everything flows easier.”He nodded before closing his eyes and eventually, his hands began to glow white. A wormhole formed before their eyes. Allura watched with a grin, glad to see that Lance finally believed in himself enough.Red came flying through followed by several Galra cruisers. With this, they would have a small army to face off Haggar and every ship gave them a better chance.Lance opened another wormhole and Allura stood at the front as Captain once more.“Crew, prepare to wormhole. We are going to Altea.”They exited the wormhole hole and Allura traded Lance places. Lance and Shiro left to go to the Lions while they prepared for the final fight.Allura stared at the pyramid before them, four pillars surrounding it with three Komars in the front. Above the shining Pyramid was another figure, a dark suit with purple lines.It seemed like Haggar was ready as well.Green, Black, Red and Blue launched, aiming for Haggar and the Komars. The Komar in the middle fired and the lions narrowly avoided the blast. Another came in, taking out Black while the third aimed at Red. They were weak as the individual lions, Hunk would need to hurry or they would be taken out before they could reach Haggar.“I can’t get through!” Pidge shouted after they were hit by a scythe.{“Me neither!”}That being said, Allura would do what she could to help them as well.“Bring us closer. Bring up shields as well.”“Yes, ma’am.”Allura connected with the Paladins. “We will draw their fire and take care of the Komars. Paladins, you must get to Haggar.”“Copy that.” Shiro said. “Team, fall back on me. We’ll take another pass.”The Lions moved out of the way, giving the Atlas a clear shot.“Fire!”The cannon shot across the area toward the Komars and they split apart, the beam only hitting one of them and damaging a leg. It wouldn’t help much, but Allura wasn’t going to back down because of one missed shot.“Continue firing port cannons.”With that the other cruisers joined in, several Galra battle cruisers aiming at the Komars. One of them stayed back keeping Voltron from reaching Haggar while the other two raced forward. No one sent any fighters, they wouldn’t do anything against the Komars.One of them fired, taking a toll on the shield of the Atlas. The crew stumbled and Allura reached out to Adam who was still sitting at the helm and she didn’t care enough to remove him.“Status.”“Shields at eighty-three but otherwise, we’re fine.”“Continue the attack.”The Komars were strong though, their weapons didn’t seem to leave much to them and the Lions were still unable to reach Haggar. Allura pushed for them to attack more, even as ships were damaged. They couldn’t stop, not until Haggar was finally in chains.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

With the battle raging on, Hanerva watched. There was no reason for her to attack yet, she knew her Komars would do just fine. In fact, it was funny, watching them fly around like flies, trying their best even though they would only fail.Eventually though, she bored of the fight and she closed her eyes. With the entities within her and every Altean, she could feel everyone. Merla and her questions, Milono and his anger, Aria and her resistance. She saw them, knew them, controlled them.It was time for them to serve.She pulled on the string and the Alteans deep in the Atlas let out shrieks and shouts as Hanerva forced them to obey.
{‘Arise, my pets. The time has come to act, to give. Repent for your traitorous ways. Give me your Quintessence and all will be forgiven.’}
Merla, sitting in her own Komar glanced around as Voltron fought her, the questions growing in her head as she listened.The Alteans all gave in, one at a time and then, her puppets acted. With eyes glowing gold, they raged against the barrier, willing to hurt themselves to follow Hanerva’s orders.Up on the bridge, an alert went off and Allura watched as the Alteans broke out of the cell with strange strength. Like robots, they moved toward the elevator, ripping it open like it was nothing.“Ma’am, it’s the Alteans!”“Where have they gone? Find them!”“Putting them on the screen now.” Veronica said.This time the Alteans were in a hallway, running down like they were in a fight. Their eyes were glowing and Allura knew they were not acting on their own.Haggar had to be controlling them.Allura recognized the walls and knew exactly what Haggar was planning.“Bridge, prepare for breach!”Curtis and Veronica stood, both with weapons in their hands as hands began to pound on the metal door. Eventually they broke it down, flooding into the room. Allura stood with her staff unsure if she could attack someone who wasn’t in control of their own body.Veronica and Curtis hesitated as well, Veronica shot at the floor before the Alteans but they didn’t even flinch.{“Please! Leave, we do not want to fight you. Think of your families, of the other Alteans!"}Konra threw a punch and she blocked the hit. She wasn’t prepared for the kick though and she was sent to the floor. She groaned, still feeling weak from being linked to Haggar. Allura tried to stand but Nelira got a hold of her, forcing Allura to stay on the ground with her knee.Connected to the podium, Hanerva instructed them on exactly what to do.
{‘Deliver me the power I need!’}
The Alteans opened the panel on the floor, showing the Castle of Lions in its crystal form.
{‘Give your energy along with the ship’s crystal. All of it.’}
The container opened, leaving the crystal and ship vulnerable. Allura continued to struggle and this time Veronica and Curits fired, but the stunning shots did nothing to the Alteans.The Alteans were no doubt powered but Hanerva, their strength was impossible and their faces seemed to be made from stone.They reached for the crystal and Allura stood, only to be thrown back by the power of the crystal. She fell over the handles as white light filled the room.Unwillingly, the Alteans gave their energy to Hanerva and Merla was forced to watch, unsure of what she was fighting for anymore.The combined energy tore across space, hitting the top of the pyramid. Hanerva stood above it, feeling the power running through her new creation.{“Great Mother, transferring that much Quintessence will destroy them! Please, stop this!”} Merla pleaded through comms.Full of power, Hanerva stopped pretending. {“Their small lives are exactly what I need to find my son. I will not stop!”}The energy continued to gather and soon a spell circle was completed and Hanerva had everything she needed.The Paladins watched in horror as the sky glowed purple and Haggar gained more power. They hadn’t gotten a hit in before this and they had a terrible feeling they wouldn’t after this either. To their surprise though, one of the Komars fought back, shooting at one of the pillars.Merla’s attack did just enough, damaging the pillar and dispersing the energy it had been gathering. The spell began to falter, hopefully it was enough to keep her people alive.In the Atlas, the Alteans passed out, retaining just enough energy to stay alive. Even so, the Atlas blacked out, the crystal in one of the Altean's hands.Allura stood, going over to one and letting out a breath when she felt a pulse. She stood, letting out a sigh as she glanced around the dark control.They had all survived, somehow.“Romelle, Curtis, Liah, please get them to the medical bay, they will need attention.” Allura gestured to the unconscious Alteans.The three stood and Allura went over, plucking the stolen crystal from Elessia’s fist. Allura plugged it back in and the lights turned back on as the system restarted.The first thing that happened was a call from Yellow which Adam accepted.“Yo, Atlas? You guys okay, we couldn’t get through to you for a moment there.”“Yes, Hunk we will be fine.”“Okay. Uh, we’re ready for a wormhole now.”“Activating it now.”“And, we’ve brought a friend!”The wormhole opened and Yellow came through first, followed by a spiked Balmera.“Wonderful, great timing Hunk as ever.”Hanerva opened her eyes, feeling the energy leaving her, though she couldn’t imagine why. With the amount of energy she had received, she could open any reality any number of times.She looked over, noticing that the lights on the Altas were back on. Not only that, but the other lion was now here with a Balmera for whatever reason. She didn’t care, she could work this to her advantage.She wouldn’t let anything ruin her plans, she would find her son!The blades of her suit activated, flying toward the Balmera. They impacted the creature and began to pull away the Balmera’s energy. Energy raced across the field, hitting the spires to reform the spell.Balmera began to shake, his energy stolen by Hanerva with everyone watching. The Paladins knew her suit would be formidable, but this was terrifying. Not only that, but if Balmera died, they would have no way to fuel the only weapon they had.Hunk tried to attack but the energy sparked and crackled, attacking Yellow when they got too close. The other lions joined him, but there was no way to free the Balmera of Haggar’s shards.The spires funneled the power right into Haggar this time, the whole area lit up purple from the sheer amount of corrupted Quintessence.If they couldn’t stop it at the Balmera, they had no choice but to stop Haggar. With Hunk finally there, they had a chance.“Paladins, form Voltron!”The five lions came together and Voltron soared through the battlefield, aiming only for Haggar. Green blocked one Komar, forcing it away with the shield while Red punched the other out of the way. Red aimed at Haggar and fired but her wings moved just in time, blocking the hit.When Red stopped firing, her wings opened enough for her hand and this time she fired. Green held up the shield with Blue and Yellow doing all they could to keep Voltron from flying away. She was stronger than Lotor, than the Komars, fueled by pure energy from the Balmera.Green forced the laser to the side, shooting it off into space when they couldn’t hold out any longer. Haggar moved the shards again, lining them up before sending them flying toward Voltron.“Sword!”Red deflected several before one finally caught Voltron in the arm. Energy flared through Voltron, shocking the Paladins and Lions painfully. Keith was caught off guard but Lance activated his ice cannon. Ice impaled the suit, but Haggar brushed them off simply.Merla watched the battle with anger brewing within her.Kallo died because of her.Luca died because of her.Milono, Konra, Elessia, Draxtir, Nelira, Tavo were all dead because of her.Because of Hanerva, Merla’s family was dying and she didn’t know who to believe. Hanerva said that Voltron killed Lotor, the one person who cared for the Altean peopleBut did that mean they had to kill in turn? If they kept killing each other, there wouldn’t be peace again, they would always live in a circle of killing each other to exact vengeance.Merla didn’t trust Voltron, she couldn’t but she couldn’t trust Hanerva either.One more death, and then Merla would be done.She charged at Hanerva only to be stopped by the blast that tore through the suit.With the fly swatted away, Hanerva turned her attention to Voltron. The yellow one seemed to have formed shoulder cannons but she blocked that attack as well. She sent the shards out and this time, one of them managed to hit Voltron in the chest.Voltron froze and with the time given, Hanerva turned her attention back to the spell at hand. The circle was finally complete and she would be able to claim for her chosen reality. The wings left her back, spinning above her as they cut through time and space.With Voltron stunned and the Komars keeping the Atlas and the other cruisers back, Hanerva had nothing to do but wait for the ring to grow.Eventually, Voltron was able to function once more and the Paladins recovered from Haggar’s lightning. Shiro rolled his neck, feeling a buzz along his spine still.“Paladins. Report.”{“Blue here.”}“Hunk, reporting in.”“Well, I’m not dead yet.”“Red Paladin here. What was that?”“More like what is that.” Hunk corrected and they looked up.Haggar stood before the glowing ring that slowly increased in size and power. Most likely, once it was large enough she would pass through.They couldn’t let that happen.Even so, Shiro turned, noticing the Komars still attacking the Atlas and the rest of the Coalition. Broken ships were starting to litter the area and the shields were slowly chipped at. Without Voltron, the Atlas wouldn’t be able to fight off the both of them.{“What are those things doing?”}“That’s how she’s doing it.” Pidge whispered.“What do you mean?”“Haggar’s using those wings to pierce the barriers between realities. Shiro, that’s her entry point.”“Atlas, come in. Are you there?”“Shiro, we hear you. You must stop her.” Allura stopped and Shiro watched a laser tear through part of the orange shield."Shiro, my boy, you must stop that first. If not, our reality will collapse! Exactly what happened after the battle with Lotor's suit." Coran answered.“Are you sure? Allura, you’ve got two Komars.”“Go.”Voltron restarted and Red drew the upgraded sword, firing a blue energy blast at Hagger. With the wings busy, the laser hit her in the chest, finally doing some damage.Allura cringed as yet another scythe knocked against the shield.“We’re at twenty-one percent, ma’am!”“Status of the fusion cannon?”{“Almost ready!”}“Fire when ready!”Allura watched as Voltron began to engage Haggar, doing whatever they could to damage the suit. She was strong though, and the rift was growing in size. The Galra Cruisers were firing but they did less damage than Voltron did.“Coran, I need you to find a way to close that rift and keep our universe safe.”“Your Majesty, I know nothing about such a thing.” Coran said, eyes wide in shock.“Then find someone who does, please. We do not have much time.”Coran saluted and then left the room and Allura refocused on the battle just in time to see one of the Komars aiming a blast at them. Before it could though, another Komar came from behind and impaled the Komar through the chest.The first Komar stuttered before the lights turned off and it just hung in space. The other Komar stopped, staring at the Atlas and Allura knew that the pilot was someone she could trust.“Curtis, I need you to keep watch on this Komar, do not let our attacks hit them.”“Yes ma’am.”Voltron blocked another blast, thankful for the fact that Haggar couldn’t use the wings to attack at the moment. Every laser felt stronger than the last and it was taking a toll on Green, they couldn’t do this forever.“Hunk, cannons!”Twin cannons formed, both aimed at Haggar and explosions filled the area. She was slightly pushed back, but then she stopped attacking.In fact, she turned around, flying toward the rift like Voltron didn’t matter anymore. Which meant it was ready, if they didn’t stop her now, she would kill everyone.“What the hell is her suit made out of?” Keith yelled as Red fired another blast at her.Haggar didn’t flinch.“I don’t know, Hunk, Lance, get us over there!”They shot forward, chasing after her and she turned, kicking Voltron away. Haggar’s suit was larger than them and they used that to their advantage, zooming back toward the fight.“Lance, blaster!”This time they froze one of the thrusters on her back and she slowed down. They circled her, slashing, blasting and doing whatever they could.Even so, it wasn’t enough. They stalled as much as they could but after a punch that sent them across the field, they were forced to watch as Haggar summoned the wings back and vanished into the rift.

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Coran had no idea what he was doing but he knew he had to find Slav. If anyone could understand what Haggar was doing, it would be the annoying and genius Theestak.Coran ran down the halls, avoiding crew members as he made his way down to the engine area. He burst through the door, out of breath and Slav was there, jumping on one foot while he counted.“Our universe is fragmenting, what must we do?”“Finally!”They stood over a computer with Coran explaining what was going on out there while Slav figuring out what they needed to do. They came to a simple conclusion that since it was powered by Altean energy, maybe they could stop it as well.With a plan somewhat formed, Coran connected the link with Allura.Allura held her breath and Haggar began to go toward the rift, Voltron was trying to stop her but nothing seemed to be working. The Komar on their side was focused on immobilizing the other but the fusion cannon was still doboshes away from being online.“Allura, we need an escort to the pyramid!”“Right now, Slav? We are in a battlefield at the moment!”“Yes, the sooner we go, the higher the probability that we can use the Alteans to stop the impending space-time rupture!”“It is similar to how we stopped the rift when Voltron entered the Quintessence field.” Coran explained. “This time that superstructure will be the energy amplification conductor and the Alteans will help as an energy source. Though, we are still working out how to transfer their Quintessence into the structure, but there are some things you must figure out on the fly!”Allura shook her head, knowing what she’d gotten into when she handed this task to Coran. Truly, she didn’t mind, as long as it saved their reality and the other realities out there.“Adam, call the MFEs, tell them to prepare to launch.”“Yes ma’am.”The second Komar was finally finished, the pilot pod was cut out of the Komar and the mech suit went still. The MFE’s launched moments later, aiming for the pyramid while Haggar hovered over the rift.They had run out of time.“Haggar has pierced realities.” Allura whispered in horror.Haggar pulled on her wings, summoning them back before she entered the rift.“Come on, we’re going in!” Shiro shouted.“I-I am afraid we cannot do that, Shiro.”“Coran’s right. It isn’t made out of the same ore. I mean, maybe some of the ship could, but the Atlas’ mass is too much compared to Voltron. No one would survive.” Pidge said.“Then we go in alone.” Keith suggested.“Actually, that appears to be problematic as well.”Shiro sighed, but listened to Slav. “And why is that?”“The statistical likelihood of Voltron succeeding against Haggar in a one-on-one battle is well below improbable.”{“What else can we do, Slav? If we do not try, there will be no one to fight Haggar as she kills realities. We, we must do something.”}Allura needed to do something. She was full of energy, her heart racing from the battle or something else, she didn’t really know. Something was calling for her and she knew they weren’t done fighting yet.At that moment, several objects entered their sector of space and the Atlas tracked seven objects stopping around them. Allura gasped at the sight of now eight Balmera forming a circle around them, each buzzing with Quintessence.Hunk let out a cheer and Coran grinned at the sight. He’d only heard about this in stories of old, but he always put his faith in the universe.“Shay.”Sure enough, one of the Balmera was familiar, though Hunk just felt it in his heart that she was there. They'd reached out for aid and he’d hoped she’d answer. Even if this didn’t work, it was amazing just seeing her again.{“What-what is going on?”} Lance asked.{“It is a convuldrum, the converging of Balmera.”} Coran answered.In unison, the Balmera gathered their energy and released it, hitting the Atlas and Voltron.Allura looked over at White, surprised by the Lion’s size. She was glowing blue, eyes bright and White now stood taller than Allura. As the Balmera gave their energy, White glowed brighter, as if she was fueled by the creatures.
‘Are you ready, cub?’
The room was full of gasps as White made herself known to others; head bent toward Allura. Allura reached out, as their foreheads met.“Yes. I shall go where you need me to go.”The energy of the Balmera reached its peak and White let out a roar that could have shattered glass by the power behind it. The Paladins heard it as well as the silent leader of Voltron was returned home.With Haggar in another reality, there was nothing keeping White down. She pulled on the universe, bending it to her will to create what the Paladins needed to end this here and now before anyone else was killed.Allura let go, closing her eyes as white filled the bridge and everything changed.Voltron stood taller and larger than usual, now the same size as Haggar’s suit. White decorated the Lions in Altean fashion and brilliant white and blue wings settled on Black’s back. Two paws rested on the shoulders of Red and Green while the others lay folded up under the Lion's body. A white lion’s jaw replaced Black, eyes glowing gold with black fangs shining in the light. Power flowed through the Paladins with the new formation, power like nothing before.Allura moved the new controls in her hands, and she realized that she was the one controlling the wings. They moved at her will, able to fight with them as Haggar did. Not only that, but she could feel the strength of the wings, able to propel Voltron forward and give them impossible speed.There was no bayard in her hand but Allura felt White with her, purring softly as the Lion created the new form. Allura knew what they could do, what Voltron could now do, and she knew they were ready to enter the rift.“What just...” Shiro stared to say, unable to find the right words.“Whoa, cool trick!”“Hell ya! Upgrades people!”“Do you guys feel that? How strong we are?” Keith smirked.{“What happened? Lura, what do you see from the Atlas?”} Lance asked, wishing they could see what Voltron looked like now.{“Forgive me, Lance, but I cannot do that. I, I am with you. It seems like Voltron has a new Lion.”}A mental image entered the Paladin’s minds, given to them by White. There was another round of cheers as Paladins realized what had happened.{“Now, I do not think we should waste any more time. What do you say, Shiro?”}“Coran, we leave you the Atlas, do what you can with the rift and secure the area. Paladins, into the rift!”Voltron, powered by the new wings, shot forward toward the rift and they were gone in a flash.Coran was left watching, full of emotions. Pride, amazement, excitement, fear, and so much more. He wished for more time to process this, but if they didn’t stop the rift their whole universe would pay the price.Suddenly an idea hit him and he leaned toward Matt to give instructions. “Ah! I know how to get the Altean energy into the structure. Drop Sam, Slav and I off at the pyramid. Then I will need you to take the Alteans to the Balmera.”“Gottcha.”Slav came to his other side, frantic about something. “You’re wearing the right socks today, aren’t you?”They didn’t have time to say anything, Matt was dropping them off and it was time to act. They raced through the halls, the Oriande structure ruined by Haggar. Thankfully, there were no other Alteans, though Coran questioned where they were.They would have to worry about that another time.Coran stopped at the podium while Slav and Sam ran to the consoles at the front. {“We must hurry!”}They worked together to find the right program that they could use to aim the energy at the rift. Not only that, but they needed to gather energy beforehand as well.“Okay, I think this is it.” Sam said. “Powering up the amplification module now.”"I’ll redirect the target to the rift. If we hit it with enough energy, it should seal.”Coran reached out to Matt and O’Sem who should have hopefully gotten to Balmera by now. {“Are the Alteans in place?”}The Altean pilots had been healed enough for this mission, each pilot on one of the Balmera. O’Sem made the final stop, dropping off the one called Nelira before confirming with Coran.[“We’re all set.”]Together, the Alteans connected with the Balmera, directing the energy that was left. The Balmera could release energy with a wide beam but with the Alteans, they could focus it right on the pyramid.With the all clear sent out, the former pilots gathered the energy, gently guiding the Balmera. Energy shot across space once more, stopping on the pyramid until Coran focused the gathering energy at the rift.The massive amount of energy attacked the rift exactly like the Castle did not so long ago. Coran, Slav and Sam cheered, only slightly surprised that worked.With this, the rift would be contained and the universe would be safe.Though, Coran had no idea how they could hold it like this. The pilots were weak and not only that, they were trying to control an unnatural phenomenon.All they could do was hold it out for as long as possible and wait for Voltron to come back alive.

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She had selected the universe beforehand and she knew exactly where she was going. Hanerva entered the first reality, sending several shots to take out the vehicles on the ground that were aiming at her. The second was much like the first, though this Altea was on an island surrounded by a never-ending sea. She stopped on the third, this Altea living in the skies.Once more, she took down flies wanting to attack her. The planes all fell like she expected but this time she waited.Voltron would have no doubt followed her and she didn’t plan on leading them to her perfect reality. She would crush them here and then go home, a free woman.The Voltron she saw was different. Not only was it larger, but it had white wings extending from its back. Voltron had gotten an upgrade, but that didn’t matter.They were still weak.Though, the fight didn’t exactly go the way she planned, Voltron was actually putting up a defense. She managed to land some shards at the end, standing over Voltron as she gained even more Quintessence.Voltron would die with the rest of this reality, she was sure of it when they didn’t get back up.She reached the seventh reality and she stared at Daibazaal.It was beautiful.It was the Daibazaal of her past, glowing with health and wealth. Upon this planet, there was a family that was missing their wife and mother. With this family, Hanerva would fulfill her duty. She would serve Zarkon and Lotor, being the advisor and mother they needed.She landed the craft, marveling at the ground she walked upon. There was no evidence of the rift ever existing here, the land was covered with grass blowing softly in the wind.It felt like home.This would be the beginning of her, of their, Empire.She found him in the distance, his movement familiar as he fought off three students. Two were soon thrown to the floor while the third charged, stopped by Zarkon holding a blade at the boy’s throat.Zarkon stood, a soft smile on his face. [“You’re getting faster, Sendak.”][“Not half as fast as the Emperor.”]Hanerva stood on the hill, her shadow cast over Zarkon. He turned, eyes going wide at the sight of her.[“Who, who are you?”][“You don’t recognize me, husband? I’ve searched beyond the stars to be here.”][“You, this is impossible. You are dead. You, you cannot be here.”] Zarkon’s arm shook, though his sword still stayed in the air.[“To be with you, husband. To be with my son.”]Zarkon dropped the blade and she stood before him, looking up at the familiar face. [“Honerva.”] Zarkon dropped the blade and reached out to gently hold her face. [“Is it truly you, Lo’nerva?”][“It is me, my love.”][“I never thought I’d see you again. The accident, you were gone, we lost you. I lost you.”] Zarkon began to cry and Hanerva wiped away the tears.[“I found you though. And I always will. My memory and desire for you and Lotor kept me alive. I’m sorry it took so long. Tell me, where is he, where is my son?”Zarkon ushered her onto another craft, into rich Altean clothing and soon they were near Altea, bright and flourishing. Haggar was right, this was the perfect universe.[“I vowed to raise our son as you would have wanted. He excels in everything, but most in his Altean studies. Lotor has your intellect.”]There was obvious peace on the planet, no one seemed to react to the Galra cruiser entering the atmosphere. Altean sentries greeted them, guiding them to the Altean castle.Alfor and Melenor were alive as well, standing with the rest of their advisors and aids. Next to them was no doubt their oldest, Yulzandar with a matching crown upon his head. Alfor was smiling, a face that was very different from the last time she saw him.{“Empress Honerva, I must say, this is a surprise and an honor. I heard of your accident in the lab, we are all so glad to see you alive and well. All of Altea will cherish this quintant, my dear friend.”}Alfor stepped forward with his arms open and Hanerva stepped back, holding up her hand. {“Ah, I-I am still recovering, forgive me.”}A child came bursting through, only to stop and grip Alfor’s legs. Two more followed, each one taller than the last.{“Children, please.”} Alfor laughed as did the children. {“Honerva, I am sure you remember our children, Ariasundir, Echodhan, and Granverdos. Lancelot and Ferukis are somewhere around here as well, no doubt causing trouble. Children, say hello to Honerva.”}{“Hello.”} The two older children said while the youngest stayed silent.Hanerva didn’t know how Alfor could have so many children, they were terribly messy and chaotic. Not Lotor of course, no, he was better than others his age.Two more showed up, how many children did they have, and these two were mirror images of the other. One had a bright grin and she recognized the Blue Paladin while the second had a more controlled face. They bowed before introducing themselves.{“Lancelot, at your service your Empress.”}{“Ferukis, a pleasure to meet you, Empress. If you’ll follow us, we’ll take you to your son.”}Ferukis turned and Hanerva couldn’t stop the sneer from showing on her face. The Blue Paladin hesitated before running forward, standing close to his brother.The sooner they got Lotor and left, the better. She was here for her family, she didn’t have to deal with these Alteans.The brothers continued to mess around, whispering to each other or knocking into the other while they went into the castle. Hanerva glared at their backs, her gaze softening as they entered the library.Lotor sat on a bench with a woman leaning over him, talking softly. He was young, still a kit but oh, his potential was astounding.[“My son.”]The woman looked up and Hanerva stopped at the sight of Allura grinning. She bowed her head before whispering something to Lotor.The boy turned and hopped off the bench before running right for Zarkon.[“Father!”] Zarkon knelt to catch him, holding Lotor close. [“Father, I am not done with school yet. Why are you here?”][“I brought someone who wishes to see you.”]Zarkon turned Lotor and Hanerva knelt, smiling at her child. Except, Lotor didn’t jump for a hug as well. He stepped back, clinging to Zarkon’s suit.[“Please, my son, come to me.”][“No.”]No? How dare her child tell her no?[“Lotor, it’s alright. Your mother has finally come home to us. You remember her.”][“I don’t remember much of Mother, but I know you are not my mother.”]No. Lotor couldn’t reject her again, she couldn’t have this happen. This was the perfect reality, a world where everything would work out. Lotor would love her, Zarkon would love her and she would serve her them in return.[“I know I appear different, but I assure you that I will love you as if you were my own. Come to me.”]Lotor was practically hidden by Zarkon now, his eyes so strong for someone so young. [“She is not my mother.”][“Lotor, please, do not say such things to your mother.”][“No! My mother is dead! And you cannot replace her with someone else! This is not my Mother, don’t you feel the darkness about her, Father?”]Zarkon stood, Lotor on his hip as he backed away. Her eyes narrowed, watching every movement.[“Lo’nerva, perhaps this is overwhelming for dear Lotor. Perhaps if we gave it more time-”]She let out a cold laugh as she stood, sharp eyes meeting Zarkon’s. [“Time? You speak of time? To me? I’ve spent lifetimes trying to get you back. Countless words and people have fallen in the wake of my efforts to return to you. And this is how I’m welcomed? A questioning husband and a scared child?”]Dark energy gathered in her hand and Zarkon drew his sword as if they weren’t soulmates. What happened to the Zarkon she knew, the strong leader who ruled the universe? She couldn’t serve this man, this Zarkon was weak, useless.[“I have sacrificed more than you will ever know! I have given more, given myself even! You were supposed to be perfect, this was supposed to be perfect. Why aren’t you perfect!”] Hanerva screamed and prepared to attack when a hum filled the air.Everyone looked up and Hanerva growled at the sight of Voltron once more.[“No!”] Hanerva shrieked, sending the energy ball toward the ceiling and broken glass fell down on them. [“No, it cannot be! Voltron is dead, Voltron is dead!”][“Voltron? Why, why would Voltron be dead?”][“Because I killed them!”]Zarkon pushed Lotor away, into the hands of those Altean Princes and Princess. His sword didn’t waver when he held it and Hanerva knew she would have to find a new reality.[“You, you are not my wife. Guards!”]The door opened and sentries came in, holding staffs at her.Hanerva sighed, gathering energy in her hands again. [“If there is no place in this universe for me, then there will be no universe at all!”]Hanerva shot the sentries back before vanishing, reappearing in her mech suit. She would find another, she always could.She didn’t care how many realities Hanerva had to burn down.She would get her family.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Voltron tore through the rift, lights soaring past them because of their speed. Lance let out a laugh, suddenly all their energy was back and they felt amazing. Voltron was full of Quintessence as if the fight with Haggar hadn’t taken a toll on them.They exited and found themselves in a dark area with white clouds and a gray surface. In the middle of the area was a castle, familiar to the team though its color was more purple than white.{“This is...”}“An alternate Altea.” Pidge finished the sentence when Allura didn’t.“And it looks like this reality is disintegrating just like ours!” Hunk exclaimed.“How come this place is, falling apart, so quickly?”“It looks like those wings created a sort of cosmic tunnel in one blast, Keith.” Pidge explained. “The rift must lead directly to the reality Haggar’s been looking for.”{“And any reality that those wings tore through is now, crumbling. Shiro, what do we do?”}“We keep going, Lance!”Allura fired the wings again and they entered the second rift, continuing the chase for Haggar. They entered the second reality, watching as nothingness took over the planet.Allura watched as Alteans scrambled, yelling and crying as their world was ended by something they didn’t understand.{“All these innocent lives.”} She mourned. {“How can Haggar do this knowing the cost?”}“I don’t know, but that’s why we need to stop her.” Shiro said.Voltron left this world, going for the rift as the reality collapsed around them. They were back in the tunnel of light once more.“I mean, I know we’re gonna stop her, but what about all those people? What's gonna happen to them?”Allura shook her head. {“I do not know, Hunk. I fear she has started a chain reaction that can never be undone.”}When they exited the third, they were struck by one of Haggar’s shards before they could even blink. The Paladins groaned in pain and Haggar looked down on them.“Countermeasures!”Red raised to attack but before they could, Haggar spun around to kick Voltron in the jaw. White kept them from falling with her wings and Red was finally able to form the sword. Glowing bright, they struck her and even with her shards, they were able to send her flying back.Haggar spread out her blades, energy gathering at the points and Allura acted with Pidge, creating a more powerful shield. They withstood Haggar, unmoving as lasers flew through the clouds around them. Voltron fired back, lasers shooting from Voltron’s eyes. They struck Haggar, leaving marks behind and she stopped the attack.Cannons formed on Voltron’s shoulder and Yellow fired, several blasts heading toward Haggar. Her wings blocked it and smoke filled the sky.Red took one of White’s wings, throwing it out. It slashed the side of Haggar’s suit and she stopped. Allura called the wing back and the team didn’t see Haggar’s wings coming from behind. They forced Voltron to one of the islands, and lighting tore through the Paladins’ nerves as the Quintessence was pulled from them.With Voltron down, Haggar sped toward the rift.Nothingness was overtaking the sky as Voltron struggled to stand. Haggar had taken her blades with her, but she had taken their energy as well. Red was first, working with the others to pull Voltron up to their knees.“Okay. I’m really. Tired of her, stealing our energy, all the goddamn time.” Keith said between heavy breaths.{“We need to stand.”} Lance urged but he himself felt his legs shake with weakness.“Five more minutes, then I’m ready Ma.”Pidge stretched their arms, agreeing with Keith, the energy-stealing thing was getting old. “Sorry, Hunk, I think if we stay for much longer we’ll die with this reality.”{“Haggar has already left, we are losing time.”} White moved the wings and Green used a wing as a support to get Voltron fulling standing.“Then, let’s get moving.”Green let the wing go back to White and slowly, they flew off the island, reaching the rift seconds before the reality died.They'd been slowed down by Haggar and the consequences were all around them. The worlds were falling apart faster, some of them too far gone to even tell what was different. Voltron kept flying leaving world after world behind.Though, Hunk wished they could do this and see other worlds without, you know, killing everyone in that reality.Then, they reached one and there was no damage in sight, no other rift, nothing. They had reached the end, Haggar was here.There was no suit near Daibazaal and they hesitated for a moment before Pidge had the idea.“She’s looking for Lotor, right? Which means in this universe he must have grown up without Honerva. Otherwise, she wouldn’t pick this universe. Where would Lotor be if not here?”{“Altea. He is half Altean, if this Zarkon had not gone dark, he would want Lotor to grow in the same culture as Honerva.”} Allura said.And then they were flying across the stars, and soon, Allura and Lance were home.Altea was beautiful, just like what the Alteans remembered and the Paladins saw from Haggar’s mind. Statues stood in the town, showing a very similar Voltron.“Well, where is she?”{“I do not know, but we cannot start attacking. There are innocents here, we must find Haggar, ma Keith.”}Before they could, five lions came out of the Castle, lions that were red, blue, green, yellow and black but slightly different. Shiro accepted the call, surprised to see a Galra piloting Black.[“I am Nixrin of Marmora, Black Paladin of Voltron. Who are you? Why is your craft similar to Voltron?”][“I’m Shiro, Black Paladin of Voltron and I guess the best answer is that we came from another reality. Listen, we’re not here to fight or attack you. There is someone on your planet who doesn’t belong here. She is a criminal from our reality and we need to stop her.”]Another screen showed up, this one connected to the Red Lion and Lance covered his mouth.[“How are we supposed to trust you? I mean, for all we know you are the evil coming from another reality.”] Tuhelga Chalvir Ruhana, Second Princess of Altea, sat there as the Red Paladin and neither Lance nor Allura could believe their eyes.{“Helga!”} Lance shouted.Helga noticed him and Allura came onto the screen as well. Helga kept looking back and forth and it was only then that Lance realized how young she was.{“Who the ruggle are you guys?”}Allura smiled before starting to explain, glad to see her baby sister again. {“Hella, listen, this is very confusing but you must work with us, we do not have time-”}Lasers impacted the ground and Green reacted first, putting up the shield while White blocked the hits that would have hit the other Voltron. Shiro watched as Haggar rejoined the fight, her mech flying above them.Haggar landed on the ground, crushing the field of juniberies below her. Instead of attacking them though, Haggar shot out her arm and fired at the Altean Castle. Allura sent out the wings, forming a shield around the castle and the innocent lives.Then Haggar attacked, forcing Voltron into the ground. Buildings were crushed as people scrambled to get away from the warzone.“Shiro, we can’t fight here!” Hunk shouted.“Then let’s take it to the skies!”The other Voltron came out of nowhere, blasting at Haggar. It was enough of a distraction for Green to summon her shield and shock Haggar. The suit stumbled back and the two Voltrons stood together.[“I have no idea what is going on, but we’re with you.”] Nixrin said.[“Wonderful. First, we gotta get her away from these people.”] Shiro smiled, keeping the channel open as they both flew into the sky.As expected, Haggar followed, holding a shard in her hand like a sword. She swung it and Red summoned her sword just in time to block the hit. With Haggar stopped, Lance fired at the helmet of Haggar’s suit and covered her vision.Alius-Voltron came in, wielding a red sword as well. This time Haggar did react, firing a blast at them. Allura and Lance shouted as Alius-Voltron was thrown into the ground. Yellow swung around, kicking Haggar into a nearby mountain in retaliation. Red came in for the punch, sending Haggar through the rock and out the other side.Voltron followed, standing over Haggar to deliver another blow when there came a call from Alius-Voltron.[“Incoming! From behind!”]Voltron turned, catching the shard in Red instead of their back. Keith groaned, letting the sword disappear. Another came from behind, this one striking Voltron’s back. The Paladins all felt it that time and Voltron stumbled from the pain.All the other shards flew up toward the sky, piercing the veil separating worlds at multiple points. Alius-Voltron then flew in, Red and Green combining to shoot at Haggar and she was thrown back by the blow. Meanwhile, Green slowly pulled the shard out of Red and Alius-Voltron took care of the one in their back.Above them, the shards began to glow, purple lighting connecting them in a circle. Another rift was opened, leaving Haggar a way to leave this reality. Haggar finally got back up, flying toward the opening.Voltron paused, knowing that this reality was going to be destroyed as well. There was nothing they could do, but stop Haggar from doing it to another. Alius-Voltron nodded their head and Voltron shot off, following Haggar once again.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

This time when they exited, there was no reality waiting for them. They were in a dark place with glowing rivers filling the area. Allura gasped, feeling the Quintessence of this place. It was like the Quintessence Field, a place as wonderful as it was dangerous.Pidge was scared to think of what Haggar was going to do here. With the energies off the charts and knowing Haggar was targeting realities, Pidge was terrified that Haggar would go completely out of control.They stopped, staring at the center point of all the rivers. It pulsed, light changing like a shifting tide. Hunk could feel it, this place was alive.“Whoa.” Hunk breathed out.“What is this place?”{“I-I am not sure, Keith. But I can feel the Quintessence. It is, amazing.”} Allura smiled[“This is the beginning.”] A voice echoed out, filling the eternal area.Voltron turned and the Paladins groaned as Haggar attacked them, sending them flying.[“And the end.”] Haggar laughed.Haggar didn’t attack Voltron. Instead, she fired at one of the flowing rivers and in a flash, the river dried up and was gone. Within the blink of an eye, billions of lives were snuffed out and galaxies destroyed.Another pulse of light was sent out, this time glowing gold and as it flowed over the Paladins, they could hear them.The cries of those who just died, the questions, the panic, the fear. They saw them, the lives that were ended, their last moments before it all just stopped.“Did, did you guys feel that?” Shiro whispered.“I think, these strands are, are the other realities. This place is the source of time, of space, of-”“Everything.” Hunk finished for Pidge.[“I will end this once and for all! I will start anew, a perfect reality. We will rule it all!”]Haggar spread out her hands, lasers shooting across the area with each of them impacting a river, a reality. Wave after wave was sent out as life after life was destroyed. Voltron charged, but it was difficult when they saw and felt the lives of those people every time Haggar ended one of the rivers.Red weakly slashed and Haggar dodged, shooting at several more realities.{“No. She, she is destroying...”} Allura said weakly, her connection to White meaning that she was more connected to the realities than the others. {“We must, we must stop her.”}Lance fired the ice cannon and she took the hit and she continued on her rampage. They were helpless, weighed down by emotions Haggar couldn’t feel any more as the waves kept coming. They watched and felt as more realities were destroyed, unable to save any of them.Until the area was darker than before and there was only one river left. Haggar hovered over it, having lost all control and rational thought.[“This. This shall be mine. We’ll be together again, we’ll rule, we’ll be more powerful than anything in any reality!”] Haggar began to cackle as she planned.{“She, she is going to destroy everything.”} Lance whispered.{“No!”} And although Allura was tired, she felt White’s energy.Haggar stood over the reality, hands together as she gathered energy. She would change this reality, form it in her own image. She would make a reality that was perfect, where she was able to serve Zarkon and advise Lotor.Hanvera hadn’t been able to find her family, so she would make her own.White threw them across the area, knocking Voltron into Haggar before she could do anything. Red and Green latched on, holding Haggar to stop her attacks. White moved the wings, inserting them into Haggar before Voltron pulled.Quintessence was forced out of Haggar’s suit, dispersing into the area around them. Haggar fought and growled, but with the suit losing energy, it lost strength as well. With her unable to fight back, Blue and Yellow activated their thrusters, pushing Haggar as far away from the remaining river as possible.[“No! No! It’s mine, it’s all mine!”] Haggar growled.At last, they reached the light at the center of it all and everything went white.The Paladins came to in an area very similar to Voltron’s consciousness but this time, everything was a light shade of purple with white clouds hanging in the air.Everyone glanced around, Shiro reaching for Keith, Pidge and Hunk checking on each other while Allura stood up Lance. Shiro moved over, standing with Pidge as Lance joined Hunk and Allura smiled at Keith. Shiro shared a look with Allura while Pidge punched Lance’s shoulder and Hunk gathered Keith into a hug.They’d made it.They were alive and they’d stopped Haggar.They’d done it.Behind them stood the Lions, each with their head bent down looking at the Paladins. In the center was White, smaller than Black but larger than Red and Green. Her wings were open, this form was beautiful as well. Gratitude flowed through their bonds, knowing they had all survived because they had worked together.“No!”A shout drew their attention, and they walked through the clouds, finding Haggar on her knees. She pounded the hard floor before looking up with wild eyes.“It was mine! Mine to make and use! How could you, how could you take it from me?”“Please, you have to stop this.” Hunk held out his hands. “All these worlds, these realities, they deserve to live. You can’t just steal them, especially without reason.”“They have families, homes, lives. You can’t just take that from them. They have their own stories that deserve to be heard.” Pidge glared.“And what about me!” Haggar hit the ground again. “What about my family? Why did I have to lose them? What did I do that meant I couldn’t have the family I always wanted? My family, my husband and son, that’s all I ask for. Is that not a righteous enough reason? Don’t I deserve my family as well?”“You had your family, it was within your hands and you lost them because of your own actions. We know it hurts, we’ve lost family just like you, but that doesn’t mean you get to kill everyone else because of your broken heart.” Keith said, arms crossed.“You know? What do you know? I worked every quintant of my life, I was a good wife, a good mother, a good advisor. I love them, I love them and I need them!”“I lost my father, mother, my siblings, my planet, I watched my own twin brother die before my eyes. You are not alone in your pain. By isolating yourself, you have only given yourself more grief. Holding onto the pain has done nothing but given you more anger.” Lance said softly.“But I was close! I had them, I had them again. They were here, I had them and you! You took them from me! We had the universe in our hands and you took it all away from us!”Shiro stepped forward, eyes like steel. “Yes, we fight for family, but there is a flaw to your logic. One life is no better than another. We fight for our family, for our homes and planets but we’ve never killed others simply because we can. Haggar, if you had stopped, you could have found a new family, in the Alteans, in the Coalition. Your pain is your own, you can’t blame the entire universe.”Haggar began to cry, holding her hands to her chest. “Why must I live in so much pain? Why can I not experience the joys of life? Why have I lost so much while others around me don’t? It’s not fair, it’s not fair! It’s mine, everything’s mine!”And then, Allura understood Haggar. Not only was this woman in pain, but she wasn’t herself. Allura knew what it felt, to have a thorn in your heart poisoning every moment. Haggar had an entity, she would never be free with in so entwined with her mind. Her very personality was poisoned, controlled by the dark creature in order to gain more power.As much as Allura wanted to save Haggar, there was nothing left to save. She was cruel to those around her, a killer, a manipulator and she had no regard for life. But, maybe Haggar could do one thing right.“I have lost everything, just as you have. Holding onto grief and pain will get you nothing but more pain. It is time to let them go, to let go of Zarkon and Lotor. We all must move forward, accepting that death is a part of life and we cannot fight it. Let them go.”Haggar looked up, and for a moment, Allura saw a broken child in Haggar’s eyes. “If I do, I lose a part of myself. I am the advisor, the wife, the mother. Without them, I am nothing. I need them, I need my husband, my son. They’re mine! Please, I need them!”“Then it is time to join them. You have done terrible things, killed billions and destroyed thousands of lives. You have done it in the name of family, but that does not excuse you. You will fix this, the only way you can. With your Quintessence, you will save all those lives you have just ended.”“But my son! I need to help my son! I need to-”Behind them, White growled and Haggar’s eyes rolled back before she passed out. Allura caught her, leaving her on the floor before facing the others.It was time to fix this.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

There was one way to fix the universe now.Her whole life, Allura had fixed other people’s problems. She took care of her siblings, she helped Mother when she was struggling, she helped Father in his war. She knew how to fix things, it was the one thing she could rely on.This war changed all that. Suddenly, she couldn’t fix things. She couldn’t bring Keith and Pidge their lost family members, she couldn’t take Hunk and Shiro home, she couldn’t give Coran and Lance Altea. She was helpless, she couldn’t fix anything.Slowly, she learned that fixing didn’t mean solving. She could help by comforting, by making plans and acting. Allura could do her best and that was all she needed to do. As long as she tried, Allura was in the right.Now though, there was only one choice.There was only one reality left, billions upon billions killed by Hanerva. But Allura could bring them back, she could fix this.She turned to face the Paladins a sad smile on her face.“I am afraid this is where we part ways.”The Paladins were stone, all with horrified looks on their faces. Lance was the first to break, storming to her and grabbing her arms.“Lura, what are you talking about? What do you mean?”She looked around Lance at the other Paladins, trying to explain why she had to do this. “This is our only chance to undo what has been done, to save all of existence. Haggar will give her Quintessence, but it is not enough, I will have to help. I must do this as my last act as Queen of Altea. Your paths will go on, mine ends here.” She looked at her brother, wishing for any other outcome but this.“No.” Lance whispered and stepped back, covering his mouth.Allura passed him over to Keith before walking over to Hunk. She couldn’t leave without saying goodbye.“There’s no Voltron without you.”Hunk, the human that stole her heart. He was kind and gentle, teaching them of Earth and their culture. He was always there with a warm meal and hug, for whatever reason. She would miss those hugs.She moved to Hunk, pulling him into a tight embrace. “Voltron is not needed anymore. The rest of the work will be up to you. And they will have you to guide them, Hunk. Your meals, your heart and soul will unite people I never could. Thank you, for showing me pure kindness.”Hunk was openly crying and Allura didn’t bother to hide her tears.“What about the Coalition?”Pidge, a child that was too innocent for this war. Pidge was strong, walls around their heart and their head controlling their actions. But when they let down their guard, Pidge was the sweetest thing in the universe. Allura would miss them.“I leave them to you. Earth has done a wonderful job uniting people and bringing peace. The Coalition will be safe with you to lead it. Remain curious and fearless, Pidge” Allura pulled them into a soft embrace. “Thank you for letting me be your sister.”Pidge let out a sob and Allura passed Pidge over to Hunk for comfort.“The universe won’t know the sacrifice you made so they could live.”Shiro was the greatest man she knew. He had lost everything, she knew what that felt like and yet he became stronger from his past. Still, she wished for a future for him where he could be weak. If anyone deserved peace and happiness after this, it was Shiro.“Then I leave the story of my sacrifice to your hands, Shiro. Even so, they don’t need to, your selflessness taught me that." Shiro pulled on her, his strong arms grounding her. “Watch over our family, they will need you now more than ever. Shiro, keep Lance safe.”“I will.” His voice was soft.“Thank you for showing me how to be a leader.” Allura pulled away, letting him go.Keith was silent, he had no questions or concerns. He was always like that, his eyes talking more than his mouth. They were soft right now, emotions pouring through. The Galra stood tall, he used to be an enemy, and now he was a brother. She moved toward him, trying to talk through her emotions.“Keith, our relationship has never been easy and I would not change a thing. You have taught me how to accept others, to listen and to watch. I cannot thank you enough for all you have given me. Even when I could not accept you or the help of the Galra, you never left me behind. Thank you for trusting me.”Keith accepted her hug, his arms barely wrapping around her.“There is greatness in you and your actions. Never stop fighting and please, continue to protect my brother.”“Thank you, Allura, for accepting me.”Allura looked over at Lance, his head hung down, his arms crossed, and shoulders hunched over. Tears fell without him fighting, his marks glowing sadly. She reached over, touching his cheek.Lance, filled with wonder and joy. Even as a child he was the one to make others laugh, to make them think of something better. The war had changed him, brought him down to the ground and she worried that after this he wouldn’t laugh again. That wasn’t what she wanted. If she was to die, the others would have to live.“Oh, Lance, why do you cry?”“I am losing you, why would I not cry? Lura, you are all I have left. Please, there must be another way. Please, do not leave me.” His voice cracked at the end as he cried.“There is no other choice.”“No. You are too important. To Voltron, to the Coalition, to me-” He choked on his tears, his voice going silent.“But I am not leaving you, Little Lottie.” They closed their eyes, foreheads touching as Quintessence surrounded them. “I will rejoin the ancestors, the Alteans of the past. I will watch over you, over all of you and when you need me, I will be at your side. I will live on, in your memories, in your stories and in your heart. You say you have no skills with Quintessence but I know the truth. Let the ancestors guide you and you will find me. My last act as Queen, I pass the crown to you, King Lancelot.”“No.” He said once more. “I cannot take this. You are Queen, you have saved our people, you have fought for them and you are their future. Lura, what of Coran? Romelle, Ah’Liah, Aria? What of the Alteans waiting for you?”She pulled away, a sad smile on her face. Coran would cry, there was no doubt. Allura would miss Linova, Liah and Aria, the family she finally had slipping through her fingers. Oh, how she wished for more time.“You will be a wonderful King, Lance. Tell the others I love them. Tell Romelle-”She stopped at that, her throat too tight to speak.Romelle.She loved Romelle. Their relationship was just growing, but Allura loved Ro dearly. Allura wished with all her heart that they could have one more moment, one tick to say something.Allura needed to explain this, to let Ro know she didn’t have a choice. Allura didn’t want to leave Romelle behind, she wanted a life with the Alteans, with her family and with Romelle.Allura wished that she didn’t have to do this. They had finally won, and she wanted to celebrate that with her family.But she had to fix this.“Tell Romelle I love her and that I will see her in her dreams.”Lance pulled her in tight once more, and Allura wrapped her arms around his neck.“Please.” His voice was broken like he was a child once more. “Lura, do not leave me, you cannot leave me alone. You cannot leave me.”She pulled away, turning Lance to face the other Paladins. Hunk was holding Pidge, Shiro behind them with a hand on each Paladin. Keith was inches from them, smiling through his own tears.“I am not leaving you alone, Lance. I am leaving you with our family. They will take care of you, you will not be alone again. Never. And I will wait for you in the stars with the rest of our family. Little Lottie, I love you and I will always be with you.” She then pulled the chain of paper stars she always kept and forced them into Lance's hands. Allura walked Lance over to Keith, the two clinging to each other as Allura walked backward into the bright light waiting for her and Haggar.For decapheobs, she mourned the loss of her family. She held onto the pain, clutching at them like one holds onto a rose’s thorns. When had she even let go? When had these people sprouted flowers in her hands? When had they become her family as well?Finally, Allura understood Father.Walking away with them watching was the most difficult thing she had ever done. Lance reaching out, Pidge sobbing while Hunk cried silently. With each step, she left broken pieces of her heart.Then, she began to cry when she heard Blue in her head, a voice she hadn’t heard in a while.
‘Do not fear, cub, we will take care of everything.’
Knowing the Lions would watch over her family, she smiled and let go.~~~Allura opened her eyes to a blue sky above her. She looked down, a familiar dress on her body and green grass under her. And then, there it was, the Castle of Lions surrounded by the rest of Alteatown.Allura was running.Past the Juniberry fields, past the market, past the guards standing at the entrance. She ran through the castle, a child once more until she found the lounge.When she opened the door, she was not greeted by the Paladins. And yet, her family sat before her.Crown Prince Yulzandar sat on the floor, Yultomaz and Hanahgir crawling all over him. Yirri Ann sat next to them, a bundle in her arms.Second Princess Tuhelga was on the couch, her wife Naomivu cuddled close and under a blanket.Second Prince Ferukis was leaning over the table, slapping down a hand full of cards with a grin. Across from him was Luxromma Smythe, a frown on her face.Fourth Prince Granverdos was curled up in the corner of the couch, a book in his hand and another at his side. Next to him sat the Third Princess Echodhan who was braiding his hair and humming.On the other end was Tyrella who was watching the card game, little Mayvera asleep on her lap.In the middle of the couch sat King Alfor and Queen Melenor of Altea, smiling down at their family.It was like out of a picture. There they were, her family and Allura couldn’t help but cry. They were here, right here!Mother found her first, standing and turning with a smile and arms open wide. Allura jumped, hugging her mother for the first time in over a thousand decapheobs.{“Mother! I am home!”}At the commotion, the others turned and stood. Soon, Allura was in the middle of a group hug, someone touching her hair, her face, her marks.And Allura was home.Eventually they all broke apart, Allura knelt at Father and Mother’s feet with her siblings all looking at her. She couldn’t help but stare at Ferukis, he was older here than the quintant he died. He was a fine young man just like Lance.Allura spent forever right there, telling Father of Voltron, Helga of their battles, Gran and Dhanny of their adventures and Zander how they had brought peace. She told Feru how Lance had found a partner, one that truly loved him. She told Tyrella how she had found another woman, how love had slipped past her yet again.Of course, they knew everything she said, but Allura couldn’t help it. Talking of the Paladins made her forget what she had left behind.Soon, there were no more words to be said and Allura sat with her daughter in her arms.Mayvera was older as well, her hair long and curly, her cheeks glowing pink. The one regret Allura had was that May wouldn’t get to grow up in the world Allura had created. No, none of them would get to see the benefits of Voltron’s victory.May didn’t seem to mind. She kept her arms tight around Allura, whispering into her hair. {“I have missed you, Momma.”}Allura had run out of tears but at least she wouldn’t have to let go of her baby again.{“Alluradell, would you walk with us?”}She looked up at Mother and Father, silently passing May back to Tyrella. The two walked silently through the halls, ending up at the Bridge.Allura stopped in the doorway, this room was too full of memories for her. Mother went up to the podium, summoning a chair to sit upon while Alfor stood behind.{“You are early.”}Queen Melenor was never one for soft words, where King Alfor was soft Queen Melenor was strict.{“What do you mean? I am late Mother, late by over a thousand decapheobs.”}Alfor shook his head. {“No, child. You, Lancelot and Ariasundir were not meant to die with us. Your future was different, greater.”}Allura fell to her mother’s feet, looking up at the woman. {“I have missed you for so long. For too long, I wished I had died with you, Father. Then, I would not have been alone.”}Melenor reached out, her touch soft. {“Alluradell. You were never alone.”}Visions filled the bridge.Them finding the Lions for the first time, the map filling the sky.Talking of how Zarkon was tracking them, Shiro leaving in the dead of night.Standing here, mourning the loss of Shiro.The Coalition and Voltron planning for Naxzela, to take back the universe.Looking out at the White Hole, Oriande hidden just beyond.The Paladins surrounding Lotor, revealing his secrets.So much time, so many memories.{“You found a family, we sent one to you, my star. Even so, we watched over you every tick of every quintant. We supported you when the Black Paladin was taken, cheered for you when Zarkon was defeated. We mourned and loved you, we answered your call every time you needed us. And though Lancelot does not remember it, we gave him back to you after you pleaded with us. Alluradell, you have never been alone.”}Allura wanted to go home.As she watched the past memories of her working with the Paladins, her heart ached for them. For Hunk’s smile and Pidge’s snarky words. For Shiro’s shoulder to lean on and Keith’s unpredictable actions. For Lance, his smile and joy.How could she be with her family and feel like she was so far from home?{“Alluradell.”} Father took her hand and the three walked over to the front, looking out at the rings of Altea. {“We will wait for you, but this is not your time. As Coran said, you are to be the greatest Queen Altea will ever know. Your future is waiting, will you reach out for it?”}The door opened and Allura cried, seeing Tyrella and Mayvera there. They met her at the front and Allura knelt to hold her daughter.{“I do not wish to leave you. Not again, my flower.”}Mayvera pulled back, a smile on her sweet face. {“But Momma, it has been so much fun watching you! Mima and I love standing here, watching you fight with Voltron, it is right out of a storybook! I will miss you, but I am ready for more stories.”}Allura stood, Mayvera’s legs around her waist and arms around her neck. Allura looked at Tyrella, wishing they had more time.{“I like her. You deserve a woman so full of joy and laughter. Allura, find your own happiness, it is time to put yourself first once more.”}Tyrella moved close, kissing Allura’s forehead before taking back Mayvera. Light began to glow behind her but Allura hesitated. She reached out for her Mother, putting their foreheads together. They didn’t speak, they didn’t have to. Mother and daughter finally understood each other perfectly.Allura walked backward into the light, and then everything went white.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The Paladins watched Allura go with tears in their eyes.This wasn’t the ending any of them wanted.Reality would be safe, the war would be over and Haggar would be gone. But it came at the too-high cost of yet another family member, someone taken from the world before their time was up.They had only known Allura for a year really, if you didn’t count the time taken from them.Was that really possible? To love someone so much it felt like your heart was breaking after only knowing them for a year?The Paladins knew this was true for as Allura walked away and the area was full of white light, a part of their hearts went with her.A sacrifice was made.Realities were brought back, each one full of people who had no idea that they were at risk. With this sacrifice, the universe was saved. Everything went back to the way it was, and the Paladins were sent home.The Paladins woke up in the medical bay of the Atlas.Keith was first, sitting up and looking around at his team. Shiro, Pidge, Hunk, Lance and, the last bed was empty.Shiro was next, holding his head. Pidge and Hunk followed, both of them turning to stare at the empty bed. The whole room was silent until Keith heard a choked sob.The team turned to see the Altean Prince on his back, hands over his face trying to muffle his cries. Keith and Hunk ran for him first, Keith pulled the Altean up and sat behind him while Hunk sat in front, holding the Prince. Shiro and Pidge joined them, the team crying more since they apparently had not run out of tears yet.No one talked.It was too painful, knowing they were safe, humanity was safe, the universe itself was safe and yet, Allura was gone.They were supposed to get their happy ending.After all their losses, the fights they pulled through and the scars they received, they were supposed to be happy when the war ended. They were supposed to go to their families, and live in peace for a while before going forward with their lives.They could, but Allura would always be gone, a reminder of the war no matter where they looked.It wasn’t fair.And suddenly, Pidge understood Haggar because if they could, they would do whatever it took to get Allura back. Well, maybe not destroy every reality, but they would find anyone if it meant getting their sister back.“Come on, let’s go find the others.” Shiro prompted. “I’m sure things have changed with the battle won and we need to go home.”Lance cried harder at that. Did he even have a home to go to? How was he supposed to explain this to Coran? Romelle, Ah’Liah, Zira? To the other Alteans? Would he end up living his whole life trying to be like Allura, something he could never do?Why did she have to leave him behind?Keith pulled on him, forcing Lance to stand. “Come now, let’s go find Zira. I bet she’s worried about us.”That got Lance moving. Allura was gone, but Zira needed them. She was still a child, Lance would have to be there for here. They would have to be there to explain the loss of Allura.Slowly, they exited the bay, Pidge standing between Shiro and Hunk while Keith kept his arm around Lance. The ship was empty, and looking through the windows they saw Earth outside. They had docked, no doubt the crew had gone to see their families.Shiro found the Bridge and upon opening the door, they were greeted by the rest of their family.Pidge ran for Colleen, holding her tight as Pidge continued to cry. Matt, Dad and even Sem folded in, each trying to comfort Pidge as much as they could. Pidge had gone through something terrifying, of course they needed their family.Hunk reached for Ah’Liah and Romelle, unashamed about his tears.“Listen, I’m sorry. She just, she wouldn’t see it any other way.”{“Hunk, what are you talking about.”}He couldn’t say her name so he pulled Romelle into a hug, holding her tight.Keith hugged his mother, glad that she was here after all they’d gone through. He turned, watching as Lance held tightly onto Zira, crying into her spines. Zira was softly petting Lance’s hair, though her eyes were dry.Zira had no idea what she’d lost and that felt like a kick to the stomach.Shiro thanked the crew for their help, smiling at Veronica, Acxa, Jemez, and Curtis before he met with Adam. They met in the middle, Adam’s hands around his waist while Shiro held Adam’s face.“You really gotta stop scaring me like this. Seriously, no more running off into space without me, Takashi.”Shiro silenced him with a kiss and finally, they were all home.Except, for Allura.Shiro glanced around, noticing that Coran was gone as well. The poor man, Shiro couldn’t imagine what he was going through right now.“Where did Coran go?”“Ah, he’s in the cargo bay, it’s where the pod had been left and we don’t dare move it now. Honestly, I’m surprised it still works after-” Sam explained.{“What pod?”} Lance interrupted with a sharp tone.“Why, the healing pod with Allura.”The Paladins shared a look and then they were running through the ship, charging for the cargo bay. A healing pod meant that Allura was alive, that she was alive enough to heal and recover. She was still here!Lance reached it first, opening the door and there he was. Coran stood over a medical pod, hand touching the glass. Lance stumbled forward, hands pushing on the only thing keeping him from Allura.Who was there, alive and breathing.Hunk started to cry once more, Pidge at his side while Keith smiled. Shiro stood next to Coran, unsure of how this happened.{“You were gone for some time, Paladins.”} His voice was quiet. {“We feared for you and then there was a flash of light and you were back. Except, there were no Lions, the six of you simply floating in space. We scanned but you were all fine, Allura was the only one showing serious issues. We nearly lost her for a moment.”}They all stared at Allura, noting the peaceful smile and life to her Altean marks.Queen Alluradell of Altea was alive.{“We cannot find the lions.”}"What?" Pidge held onto Hunk.“What do you mean, Coran? Where are they?” Keith narrowed his eyes.Coran looked at each Paladin, seeing the concern for the creatures that had gotten them through this war. The Lions of Voltron were not only companions, but they were a symbol of the universe. While the Paladins had been healing, Coran had sent probe after probe, but the lions couldn’t be found.{“Gone. The Lions of Voltron are gone.”}Each Paladin felt the hit.These lions had saved their lives time and time again, they were the reason they won the war in the first place. The Lions were a part of them, family when they had nothing left. This hurt, it really did and yet, this seemed like the better outcome.The war was over, and Voltron wasn’t needed anymore. Now, they could live whatever lives they wanted to, go down any career path. Not only that, but Allura was alive, they were a family once more.A beep came from the pod and they stood silently as the glass was opened. With it lying on the floor, Allura woke up slowly with fluttering eyes and steady breathing. Lance leaned over, tears falling.Allura reached out, a warm familiar hand holding his cheek.{“Oh, Lance, why do you cry?”}Lance gave a broken laugh before pulling her up into a hug and finally, they reached their ending.Yes, the Coalition would continue to work and they weren’t quite done there. But the war was over, they could start building a new peaceful world.Finally, they were free.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

For the first month or so after the lions disappeared, Pidge never left home.They had their family, Matt and his girlfriend included. The Voltron Coalition had completed its mission, Voltron was gone and there was peace.After a while though, Pidge gladly went back to work. One could only watch TV shows and eat junk food for too long before getting bored.Pidge took a test that basically let them graduate, and soon they were going back to school for higher education. While they weren’t learning, they were working with Matt to incorporate Altean and Galran tech into Earth tech. There was a lot to fix on the planet after being occupied and then a war zone.Every day was its own adventure and though Pidge missed Green, things were better. Even though they all went their separate ways, the team visited Earth every year and called each other monthly most of the time.Pidge couldn’t go long without the other Paladins, they were family and Pidge loved them. They were the reason Pidge got home and how Pidge became the person they were. The war was a lot, Pidge would rather not do that again, but they all came out better because of it.It was nice hearing from them as well. Allura talked about the Alteans and how they were adapting, Keith went on about Daibazaal while Lance only talked about Zira. Shiro shared images of the sights they had seen as the Atlas explored space while Hunk and Shay talked on and on about the meals they made and the wars they ended.Pidge was no different, sharing pictures of Matt, Neves and their baby Terran. They talked about the stupid and great things they did as well as the things Pidge created in their lab. Rover got a new body, a little dog that scared the shit out of Bae Bae.They spent most of their days working with Matt as well. He’d been gone for what felt like forever, it was amazing to have him for a whole day. He was there when they built Rover, he was there when Pidge made any decision. Because Pidge couldn’t live without their big brother.Pidge met Kimberly at College, they shared a general English class and Kim was working to be a programer. She was full of energy and honestly not a person Pidge would usually hang out with. But Kim treated Pidge like a normal person, not the hero of Earth. Though, later Pidge found out Kim was in one of the prisons they had freed.They continued to hang out and after finding out Kim was nearly failing math, Pidge offered to tutor. Slowly, things changed and it scared Pidge shitless.Pidge wasn’t, typical. They wanted romance, a partner and someone who loved them but Pidge struggled feeling such things without an emotional connection. Even so, the idea of being intimate made Pidge shudder.They'd had partners before after the war ended, but Pidge hadn't felt something this strong before. Kim was specialFor a long time, Pidge ignored their growing feelings. Kim would want someone who was affectionate, someone who liked physical touch. Pidge wasn’t the right person for the social butterfly. So, Pidge kept their mouth shut, admiring Kim in secret.Instead, they focused on school and work.Matt was working on building a teludav so Earth could wormhole as well. The Atlas was currently their only ship that could and they needed to fix that.Of course, there was the question of energy and after a short call to Shay, they had Balmera crystals to fuel their cruisers. Not only was Matt building things, he and his wife practically lived on the Atlas, maintaining the ship when they weren’t making sure Terran, their perfect baby boy, wasn’t getting himself into trouble.Pidge had also decided to teach.Don’t ask them why, the idea was stupid. Honestly, fifteen-year-old Pidge would hate it.But twenty-two-year-old Pidge was alright building those connections. They didn’t have to be social all the time and teaching Altean and Galran tech meant they would be dealing with kids that had the same fascination Pidge had at that age.Pidge loved learning, and exploring made their heart soar. With Altean and Galran tech becoming popular, who else could teach the new generation how to understand and work with such tech? Being a teacher was never on their radar, but Pidge learned to adapt long ago.Turns out, Pidge didn’t have to work that hard to become a teacher anyway. Iverson contacted them, asking if they would be willing to teach at the Garrison.There were kids there who watched the fight, who wanted to understand Voltron and the pods and the mechs they saw. Pidge couldn’t turn down the option and soon Pidge was the teacher of Green Lab, a class for alien technology.Pidge’s kids were just like them. The class was full of questions, about Balmera crystals, Quintessence and Blade Codes. Pidge answered each one, somehow fitting right into that teacher roll. Even when their kids were a little annoying. Seriously, how many times did Pidge have to talk about double-modulating?Pidge stayed in contact with Kim as she finished school. Kim’s graduation was something Pidge would remember for years.Kim was all dressed up, holding her diploma and beaming. Pidge stayed in the back of the parking lot, watching as Kim fluttered around visiting classmates and friends. Pidge shifted their weight, unsure of the suit they wore and if the flowers they had were too much.At their own graduation, their family had given gifts, but Kim wasn’t family. How did typical people celebrate a regular friend’s graduation?Eventually Kim found them under a tree and she ran over, even with those impossible heels. Safe on the grass, Kim slipped them off and finally wasn’t a giant anymore.“Pidgey!” Kim hugged them and Pidge held out the flowers so they weren’t squished. “Oh, I’m so glad you came! I couldn’t see you in the crowd but you know how that is with the stadium full of people and those bright lights and you get stuck in the moment walking across that stage and I’m so nervous about tripping but I really did try to find you, maybe you’re just too short.”Pidge pulled away, glaring at the taller woman. “Or, you’re just too tall.”Kim laughed and Pidge scolded their heart for loving the sound. “Oh, Pidgey, are those for me?”Pidge looked down at the bright orange and yellow flowers before raising a brow at the graduate. “Who else would they be for?”“Thank you! I love them so much!” Kim took the flowers and then bent down, pressing a kiss to Pidge’s cheek.The Paladin froze, mind going blank and the computer screen filled with static. Kim was talking, no doubt about the flowers but Pidge was a little busy over analyzing the kiss.Friends kissed.Right?In some cultures, it was a greeting or a way of saying thank you. Maybe that’s all it meant? Maybe Kim was just so happy about today that she wasn’t thinking straight?But Pidge knew Kim was pan, they knew there was a possibility that Kim could like them. Was that what the kiss meant? Did Kim really like them? Could Kim like Pidge in that way?“...and you’ve just gotta meet my parents. I’ve been talking about you for years now and once they found out that you are the Green Paladin, well, my dad is totally curious about Voltron and yada yada yada but it’s totally up to you and it depends on whether or not I can find them with this crowd. Hey, are you okay?”“I like you!” Pidge shouted before covering their mouth.Shit! Shit, goddamn, fucking words for acting without Pidge’s permission! This wasn’t what Pidge was planning on doing, shit!Kim looked at them over the flowers, the bright colors lighting up her face. Kim was sunshine, even more so than Hunk, or Romelle. She was life itself, Kim often wore bright pinks and yellows and was always full of energy, Kim was the total opposite of Pidge.This was all a mistake, why would Kim like them? And even if she did, would she stay after Pidge explained everything they wanted from a relationship?“Oh Pidgey, I know.”“You do!”She giggled, a finger twirling one of the yellow flowers. “Pidgey, you never talked to anyone, several other kids asked for you to tutor them and I know I’ve been the only girl who met your parents and brother. Do you remember that dinner, your brother pulled me aside, thanking me for making you smile, it was the sweetest thing ever. Pidge, I know people, I thought you knew I liked you too.”“Why would you think that? I don’t even know how to talk, let alone talk about my feelings. I just get all flustered and then I end up shouting like this! Why am I even this loud right now?”Oh, Pidge would rather be in a battle right now!“Right, I shouldn’t have assumed. Well then. Pidge Holt, I have very strong romantic feelings for you. Will you go out with me?”“I don’t like sex!” Pidge’s mouth said once more and they hung their head, silently cursing.Kim just laughed, but not at Pidge. The sound was soft, filling the air.“Oh, Pidgey, I like you for you. How about we try this, you tell me what you don’t like and I'll do the same. And, if it doesn’t work, we can try staying friends. But I like you, how you hyperfocus on your work and how you let me ramble on and on about code and my studies. Can we try?”Kim held out her hand and Pidge accepted it, looking up with a smile.“Sounds, wonderful.”
---August 2327---
Pidge connected the call with Allura, waiting for it to go through. They still lived on Earth, though they constantly joined the Atlas to show Kimmy things or to collect materials.Rover then ran across the desk disrupting the image and of course, Green followed, hissing at the mechanical dog. Rover didn’t seem to mind, jumping into Pidge’s lap while Green watched.“Come on you two, can’t you get along? For fucks sake.”“Fight like cats and dogs, were have I seen that before?”Pidge sat up, letting Rover jump to the floor. Green stayed, inspecting Allura on the screen.“I see you’ve copied my hair cut. Short hair looks good on you, Lura.”Allura reached for her hair, golden crown peeking through white curls. {“Well, when you have children that love to tug on your hair, you learn to cut it short and out of reach. How have you been?”}“Questioning why I wanted to teach.” Pidge sighed putting their chin in their hand.{“Oh, what have they done now?”}“What haven’t they done. We’re looking at Rover’s model which means he gets to come to class. I didn’t think that would mean my students would try to take apart my dog.”Allura began to laugh, even though it was hidden behind her hand. {“Forgive me, but I think you would have done the same at that age.”}“I guess you're right, but still! I didn’t think I’d have to save Rover several times. Once should have been enough.”{“Yes, yes. Now, do you still need that shipment of parts? Liah has them ready if you want to have your students play with Altean tech.”}“Oh, I am ready, Lura. Altean tech fights back and these little shi-uh, kids need to be humbled.” Pidge censored their words, unsure if the twins would be there to hear.{“Wonderful. When the Atlas touches down tonight it will be there for you.”}“You’re coming as well, right?"{“Of course I am coming. I shall see you soon, sister.”}Pidge smiled, thankful for every small talk they got in. {“And I you, Lura.”}The screen cut out, and Pidge was left staring out the window, plants climbing around the house and growing on whatever they could.Hands crept around their shoulders and Pidge leaned back.“Spying on me now, huh? I didn’t think that was your style.”“Maybe I was just admiring the view.”Pidge jumped up, arms folded. “Me or Lura?”Kimberly just laughed and rolled her eyes. She began to pull on Pidge, pulling them over to the couch settled before the window. They rolled up together, with just enough space for Pidge to not feel like they couldn’t breathe.Rover and Green joined them as well, Rover on Kim’s lap while Green settled with Pidge as if she didn’t want all the kisses and attention. Together they relaxed, enjoying the last few moments before the chaos of dinner.Long ago, Pidge had built a wall around their heart, keeping it safe from those who could hurt it. But that wall also blocked out those who would love Pidge in turn. They didn’t realize this, of course, thinking they were safe and that everything was fine.Needing the Paladins, surviving because of them, and falling for Kimmy broke that wall into pieces.The window was their favorite part of their house, seeing the city beyond and the stars above. The growing plants that Pidge nearly killed several times as well as the cat tree in the corner that Green loved to perch from. From this window, they were able to watch sunsets with Kim, watch stars fall and the moon change.None of it would have been possible without Voltron. Without the Paladins, and the Coalition, Pidge never would have learned how to let others in, how to connect and rely on others.Because of Voltron, Pidge finally saw the family they’d had all along.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Once Hunk confirmed his family was safe, Hunk launched himself right back out into space. He said once he reached Earth, he wouldn’t leave again, but that wasn’t true.Shay was waiting for him.So, with a wormhole provided by the Atlas, Hunk flew into the sector where Balmera was waiting and Shay as well. As he flew, Hunk thumbed over the stone in his hand, a smile on his face.It had taken time but slowly, the stone was carved into a smooth heart shape. After that was done, he asked Matt for metal that was stronger than the metals found on Earth. The guy pulled through, making a chain for the stone that would last centuries. Matt’s words, not his.Hunk’s parents had hesitated when Hunk said he was leaving again. Mama worried that she was losing him and Papa wasn't so sure about a trip so soon after the Lions disappeared. Even so, Mama and Papa kissed his forehead and Hunk left. After all, he would be coming back, with someone special to introduce.Hunk loved his Mama and Papa, they were his life and he really was happy to be back on Earth. But Hunk could never stop loving Shay. She was a calm evening, a soft summer rain, an ocean breeze. He needed her, she calmed his anxiety and he liked to think he made her life brighter as well.He landed on Balmera, walking down into the tunnels. He greeted those at the market, many knew him now as a Paladin and as Shay’s boyfriend. Balmera and Olkari alike stopped him, thanking Voltron or offering items. He brushed them all off, needing to see Shay.Through visits, Hunk got to know the Balmera enough to somewhat navigate on his own. If anything, he knew the way to Shay’s cave with her family.He found her in one of the abandoned mining shafts, sitting at the bottom and looking up at the bright sky. Hunk smiled, the sight familiar even though now Balmera was full of crystals and they were both older.|”Shay.”|She sat up and soon they were running toward each other, meeting in the middle with a sweet kiss. Hunk pulled her close and finally it hit him.The war was over.Yes, there were things to fix and people to help but nothing stood in the way of their relationship anymore.With that, he pulled away and got the heart necklace out of his pocket. At the sight of the blue stone, Shay gasped.|”It is, oh it is splendid, Hunk!”||”I know it wasn’t that long ago and I have no idea how long your relationships last, but I want ours to be forever. This is simple, but I’m ready to start a new life, with you. Will you marry me, Shay?”|She cried, nodding again and again as she felt the soft stone in her hands. There were no edges, the whole thing was polished and shining. It was obvious how much time Hunk had spent on it, that meant more than any romantic gestures he could have done.|”Yes.”| She finally managed to say, pulling an item out of her own pocket. |”I planned this long before we heard the news of the lions, I hope this is alright with you?”|The stone had been carved into Yellow’s face. It may have looked like any old lion to someone else, but Hunk knew that face. It was the face of his brother, who he carried in his heart every day. And now, he could carry Shay and Yellow in his hands, forever.Instead of talking, Hunk kissed her again, and again and again until Shay laughed, saying there was much to prepare.Hunk stayed on Balmera, learning more about them while they planned the ceremony. It wasn’t really a wedding, in the eyes of everyone around them, they were already husband and wife. They were planning more like a reception, an event to celebrate the newlyweds.They spent most evenings around the family fire, Hunk telling stories or Shay sharing how she fought with those wishing to undersell her crystals. Rax spoke as well, how he had found a wonderful girl he was interested in and Hunk congratulated the man.A quick week later, most of the Balmera were in the center of the Balmera, singing and dancing. Hunk stood there, shirt open to show off his Balmeran necklace as people came up and shared their love.Shay entered from the other side, the two meeting in the middle. Her dress was a beautiful forest green, the Balmeran necklace shining where it rested. Hunk wished for time to stop, he never wanted to spend another day without Shay.The celebration went long into the night, both showing off their jewelry, eating plenty of food and dancing for hours. Even with all this going on around them, Hunk and Shay managed to stick together, her holding his arm or him holding her waist.Everything finally felt right in the world.After that, they walked back to the family cave and were greeted by another gift. Each family member had their own room split off from the cave but Shay’s had been changed. Her room was still connected to the family fire, but it also had another opening, for a fire of their own.That's when he broke down, hugging Rax and Quin, thanking them for the addition while crying about how much he loved his new extended family. Shay had to drag him away, blubbering like a fool.They left Balmera together, going to Earth a while later and meeting Hunk’s parents. Hemi and Maleko thought Shay was the coolest thing in the world while the adults gave him hugs, compliments and goodbyes.They weren’t staying on Earth after all.Hunk wanted to stay on Earth, but he felt pulled to the stars. There was so much out there, so many people and cultures. He wanted to explore it all, see it all with Shay at his side.And so when the Voltron Coalition offered him a position as ambassador and negotiator, Hunk took it with one condition.Hunk’s cruiser wasn’t like any other ship. It had a bridge, rooms, and other normal things. But below the decks was a massive dining room, big enough to fit the largest of people with storage containing chairs and plates for the smallest of creatures. But what Hunk loved even more than that was the kitchen.He had multiple chefs, plenty of servers and most of his crew worked in the food industry. Shay continued to promote trade for Balmera, often leaving to help her people. But when she stayed, she cooked alongside Hunk, combining all sorts of food and flavors for their guests.The Yellow Kitchen, yes, Hunk named the cruiser himself, flew around space and was known by all. They helped out after natural disasters, visited planets for holidays and promoted peace in the name of the Voltron Coalition.When two planets or people couldn’t get along, Hunk would invite them onto his ship, creating a meal that showed how well the two cultures could work together. Sometimes it didn’t work and Hunk had to be more firm, but most of the time a plate of good food was all the diplomacy he needed.He made sure to visit Novus Altea, Daibazaal and Earth, sharing meals with his friends and sharing his travels. Once the Garrison cleared it, he even took his family on a trip, showing them the stars he had grown to love.They had one problem though, one they never saw coming.They had been trying for children for a few years now, Hunk loved family and wanted to create one with Shay. Yet, nothing happened and after a while, they contacted Sam to see if he could do some research.A week later he called them, saying that he needed to see the couple as soon as possible. The Yellow Kitchen was in Earth’s orbit the next day.“I took a look at the blood samples you sent me and I’ve got, news. There is something about human and Balmeran DNA that opposes the other. Frankly put, the chance of Shay here getting pregnant is almost nothing and her bringing that baby to term is even smaller. I’m so sorry.”They flew back to the Balmera, both silent.Hunk felt terrible, Shay wanted a family, she often spoke about her childhood and how she was excited to have children in a world without war. Rax himself was married and already had two little kids running around. But because Hunk was a human, he couldn’t give Shay what she wanted.Unknown to him, Shay had the same feelings. She saw how Hunk shined with other kids, sharing pictures of him playing with his nephews. Every time they interacted with other children, her husband was happier. But because she was Balmeran, she couldn’t give Hunk the family he deserved.On Balmera, Shay split off, going to her family fire while Hunk remained in the cave Rax and Quin had carved for them. It had changed over the last couple of years, a picture of them hanging, shelves carved out and holding items. The fire was warm, but Hunk felt cold.Shay ran to her mother, holding onto her as she cried. Shay had never doubted who she was, she had always been confident but now, she felt like a child again. For a while, she just cried, getting it off her chest as she mourned a life they could never have.After hearing that, Kera pulled away and smiled at her daughter.|”I will admit, I wasn’t sure of this skyling you found. I worried about him taking you, that I would never see you again. But when you are together, you are both brighter than a crystal given to us by Balmera herself. My pebble, you and Hunk are made for each other. You both have done so much for us and the universe. I am sure you will be blessed, give it time.”That night, Hunk and Shay held each other close.Yes, they wanted a child, it would be a dream come true. But, if they really couldn’t have one, at least they had each other. Their lives would continue, with or without a child. Happiness lived on as Hunk and his crew explored the universe together.
---August 2327---
|“Hot soup, coming through!”| Someone called and Hunk looked over to see Sal moving his way.Hunk stood close to the counter, letting Sal pass before checking the rest of the meals. Tonight was the annual Earth visit, the night they celebrated the end of the war. Of course, the Yellow Kitchen catered, which meant Hunk had been cooking all day long.The kitchen was hot from the ovens and stoves but he hummed as he danced around. This dish needed more seasoning, this one was just perfect and another was put in the oven to cook. Everything was going to be just right for the dinner.With the final touches underway, Hunk washed his hands and left, leaving the kitchen to Sal. He made his way to the bridge and after confirming that they would be near Earth in about a varga, he went to their rooms.The ship was everything, a kitchen, dining room, ballroom, and house. Near the front he lived with Shay and there was nothing greater than coming home to her.Hunk threw open the door, slipping off his shoes.“Honey, I’m home.”Shay came from the office, looking as beautiful as ever.“You stayed late, I’ve already finished all my reports.”Hunk met her in the middle, hands resting on her waist while hers wrapped around his neck. They swayed there and nothing else in the universe existed.“Love, are you sure about going to Earth? I know this is a busy time for trade. The others would understand if you couldn’t make it this year.”“Hunk, I am fine. I checked in back at home and the harvesting is going smoothly and we are prepared for all shipments. Besides, we deserve one night to ourselves.”At that moment, his data pad went off, signaling that someone was calling him. Shay shook her head, letting him go to answer after he gave a quick kiss.“Pidge!”“Hey there, big guy. Just wanted to check that we were scheduled for tonight. Matt’s working with Coran which means I’m calling people. As if they can’t call on their own.”“Of course they are. But, yes, Shay and I will be there, food hot and ready.”Pidge sighed, leaning back in their chair. “Thank God. It’s been much too long since I’ve had your cooking, Hunk.”“Well, maybe we’ll stay on Earth for a while. Mama’s been getting antsy, saying I don’t visit enough.”“We children never do. Mom says the same and I live a city over! Don’t worry, it’s a parent thing. I’ll see you tonight then!”Hunk saluted before the call ended. He turned, surprised to see that Shay was still there.“Sorry, I would have included you had I known you stayed.”“No worries, dear. I have just missed you."Hunk pulled her close together and without any music, they began to sway together with love shining in their eyes.Not only had Hunk's family grown after the war, but he had found a precious stone among the rubble. And with Shay here, Hunk felt right at home.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

For a while, Shiro felt lost.The war had been his life for the past five years, he’d been gone for so long and Earth had changed so much. Not only that, Shiro had changed, Adam as well. Nothing was the same anymore and maybe that was okay.After answering all the questions asked, Shiro and Adam accepted their jobs on the Atlas. With Allura ruling Novus Altea, the title of Captain was passed down to Shiro. Adam stayed an instructor, teaching those still of school age while they traveled through space.It was another change, both had to learn how the large ship worked while working around their new relationship. But finally, Shiro got to show Adam the beauty of the universe.This time, there was no fighting, no danger. There were ships on board should someone attack, but no one ever did. The Atlas was known for saving the universe with Voltron.Honestly, the lack of danger was an improvement, considering how they were both damaged by the war.Adam taught the older kids, those whose parents worked on the Atlas and decided to stay together as a family. When Shiro wasn’t busy, he would join Adam at the school teaching or talking to the younger kids.That’s how he met Leon.The boy reminded him so much of Keith, it was startling. The same angry eyes, the far-away look and the hidden frustration. And just like with Keith, the boy was known for not listening and getting in trouble.But instead of getting into fights willingly, Leon was being bullied. It took Shiro many visits and long hours before Leon admitted the black eye was because of another student. Where Keith had been loud in his anger, Leon was quiet.The boy rarely talked, using sign language or writing instead. Shiro learned what he could, this boy was without a friend and he wondered why.Leon was kind, smart and shy. He wasn’t a pilot, but he did like astronomy. Leon was good with numbers, calculating like Shiro never could. He was a good kid, Shiro couldn’t understand why he was struggling or why the other kids hated him.Turns out, the kids just thought he was weird for talking with his hands instead of his mouth. After finding that out, Shiro told the teacher, hoping that things would get better for Leon. Instead, the boy vanished from their library visits, he wasn’t at school for a whole week.Shiro had reached out, being captain, he knew everyone on the ship. Leon’s father denied every visit, saying they were sick.When he came back, Leon seemed fine, but he avoided Shiro and everyone at the school. Shiro tried to let it go, but all he could think about was Keith.Shiro fell to their bed with a groan, muscles aching from working for a whole day. As much as he missed piloting, he really wasn’t able to in his condition.His husband looked up from his desk, shaking his head at Shiro’s actions.“How do you always do this? You find someone that doesn’t want friends, who would rather be alone and you get too attached, Kashi.”“You talking from experience?”“Yes. I just needed to get through school and you clung to me like a sad puppy. I know it’s hard to believe, but some people really don’t want friends.”“You wanted friends, you were just too scared to get attached to people. Keith was the same way and I have a feeling Leon is too. Something is wrong, I can feel it.”Adam walked over, the metal leg creating a unique pattern to his walk. Adam sat by Shiro, running a hand through his hair.“Alright, so I did want friends. But Leon is a kid, there is so much about a teenager’s mind no one really understands. But, if you really want to, you know what you have to do.”Shiro groaned, suddenly understanding Keith all those years ago.“Patience yields focus.” They both said, the Kuron part of Shiro was sick of the words.Kuron would rather find Leon and get an explanation out of the boy. But Shiro knew that wasn’t the way to go and yet again, Adam was right.So, Shiro continued to go to the library, waiting to see if Leon showed up. It took a while, but one day the boy was there, a furrow in his brow as he quickly signed.‘Why are you here?’“Well, I like reading in the library and I was hoping you would be here as well. It’s been a while since we talked, Leon.”‘No.’ With a huff, the boy turned around, slamming his backpack on the desk only to look around, wincing at the noise.“Come on, how is school? Are those kids still bothering you?”A pause.‘No.’“Good, I’m glad. You doing well in your classes?”‘Yes.’One word answers but still, this was good.“What’re you working on?”‘Homework.’The rest of the week was the same, Leon slowly opening up to Shiro again while Shiro gently talked to the boy. Eventually, they were talking like they used to, Leon happily signing about something he had read or seen.This proved Shiro’s idea, that Leon wanted friends but couldn’t for some reason. As happy as Shiro was that the boy was talking to him again, he wished Leon could open up to kids his own age. He was still a child, he needed friends.Just as the school year was coming to an end, Shiro got a random call in the middle of the night. He answered, still half asleep expecting it to be someone attacking the Atlas.“Shiro! Help me!”The yell woke him right up, and he glanced down to see Leon’s last name listed with the number. The boy was crying, voice shaky and Shiro was running out of bed, pulling on clothes.“Leon! What’s going on? Where are you?”“He’s, he killed Mama!”Oh shit.Adam woke up, one eye open in the dark room. Shiro held out the phone for Adam to hear as well.“Who killed Mom? Leon, what’s going on?”With that, Adam was up as well and soon they were running out of the room, heading for the lower decks.“Dad!”Adam was on the phone with security, telling them where to go while Shiro made sure Adam didn’t run into any walls. As he ran, Shiro tried to get Leon to say something, to calm down or explain but the phone went silent.That night was something Shiro could never forget. They found Leon, his father choking him in the living room. Shiro tackled the man and once he was down, he was able to confirm that Leon was safe with Adam.The next month was a long one, for all three of them.They had to deal with the charges for Leon’s father, and with them being the only witnesses they couldn’t really avoid it. Dealing with laws was never fun on a ship floating in space but this was even worse.Each day passed, everyone talking about the murder and the poor boy who watched. Each day Leon hid in the spare room longer and signed less. Each day Shiro worked with people who whispered about the poor abused boy without a mother or father.Shiro didn’t know what to do.He couldn’t put Leon into foster care on Earth. Yes, there were good and true families, but he’d heard enough from Keith. This kid needed a family, a home.He and Adam had long talks late into the night, thinking about whether they were the right people for Leon and if this was the best. They both were traumatized, each with bad days and lower mobility. Not only that, but his disease meant he would die sooner than Adam. Could Shiro pull Leon into their home only for Shiro to leave in, a few years maybe?Leon needed stability, and he and Adam were anything but stable.And yet, Shiro couldn’t give him up either.The Atlas crew became the family Leon needed. Sam and Collen happily watched him when they weren’t busy, teaching him about plants and science. Matt talked on and on about Voltron and their adventures. Veronica let him watch her work while Acxa seemed to tolerate the boy. The rest of the crew loved him and when the other Paladins visited he was accepted as well.Shiro and Adam adopted the boy, other conditions or problems be damned. They were a family and nothing would tear them apart.---August 2327---It was another meeting and Shiro was ready for it to be over. They’d been at this for vargas, talking about trade routes that wouldn’t give anyone an advantage over another. Shiro didn’t know why this was taking forever, and he had too much of a headache to think clearly.Thankfully, Veronica was there with Acxa, the Galra glaring even with a sleeping newborn on her hip. Veronica would share her notes later and then Shiro could decide what needed to be done.For now, he felt like an old man and he wanted a nap.Shiro nodded at Veronica and she stood, stopping the conversation.“I know there is much to discuss, but the Atlas is scheduled to land on Earth tonight and we can’t be late. We shall continue this once we are back onboard.” Shiro said, leaving no room for argument.Using the control on the side of his chair, Shiro rolled it back and left before any could call him back. He was going to Earth to see his mother, the other Paladins and to rest, nothing was going to stop him.In the hallway, he finally paused, smiling up at Veronica.“Thank you, once again. I know I should have taken notes but-”“Forgive me sir, but Adam already told me of your headache. Besides, Acxa and I are just as happy to leave.”Acxa rolled her eyes, which Shiro learned a while ago was a sign of her agreeing. Most times.“You’ll land with us then today?”Acxa stopped and smiled, which looked slightly threatening. “You think I would miss a chance to brag about my daughter to Keithir? Please, Vera and I will be there.”Shiro smiled and they broke off, each going their separate ways. Shiro quickly made it home, relaxing at the sight of Adam and Leon at the table.“You’re late.”“Blame the councils of, oh whatever planet they were from. I don’t know why Allura wanted me as captain, I don’t care as much as Hunk does.”“Yes, but Hunk’s much too soft. He’s a great captain and chef, but, you know what I mean.”Leon tapped the table, getting their attention. ‘What time for our arrival?’“In about three vargas. I’d make the jump, but I'm feeling sore tonight.”They never hid his disease from Leon, telling him as soon as he was old enough about Shiro’s condition. The Clone body slowed it down and Shiro was doing great compared to some others. Even so, he was confined to the wheelchair most of the time now and he was starting to lose control over his hand and mouth some days.Even so, it didn’t seem to affect them much. Leon was quick to help, and patient when Shiro took longer to sign. Adam took it in stride, sighing dramatically when Shiro forgot his pain pills.“Hunk called earlier, checking in on our ETA. I swear, he’s on drugs, Takashi, he was smiling much too wide to be normal.”Leon let out a snort, gesturing to Adam’s metal arm and leg and Adam rolled his eyes.“Anyway, he and Pidge have been working with Linova to make something special for you. And yes, I checked, it won’t blow up once it’s activated. Hunk told me many, many times that it was safe.”“I think you just scare him.”“How else am I supposed to fucking-”“Language.” Shiro said at the same time Leon signed.“-react when my husband’s wheelchair nearly blows up under him? You could have, Takashi, I don’t like the idea of you blowing up.”Shiro reached forward, holding onto Adam’s hand. “I know, and I won’t anymore. I promise."‘Gross.’ Leon signed.Hours later they found themselves on the bridge, entering Earth’s solar system. Shiro watched the stars fly by, a content smile on his face. No longer were the stars a source of anxiety or fear for him. He could finally explore them the way he wanted to, showing the beauty of the universe to Adam and Leon. He could show them what he fell in love with all those years ago.The war was still with him, but the worst was left behind. He closed his eyes, relaxing under the light of the familiar stars. Ma was right, Shiro was a space explorer at heart, and he’d never been so at peace as he was right now.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Keith never thought he would find it.A home.Yet somehow, he had it. A home, a family, a planet and all he could ever want. The road had been long and the journey wasn’t over yet, but Keith was excited for the future they would have.Once they were free to leave the Garrison, Keith showed Lance motorcycles, the desert and the house he grew up in. Lance seemed to love everything, holding tight during the ride there and touching the house and furniture with gentle hands. But nothing was quite like his face when Keith took him outside, and Lance saw the Milky Way.His marks glowed, white hair bright under the starlight as they looked up at the sky. Well, Lance was, Keith kept his eyes on Lance.They were done.The war was over, and the Paladins were freed from their job. He missed Red, he wished she hadn’t gone but he wouldn’t trade this moment for anything in the universe.Keith fell in love all over again, looking at the shining Altean Prince.“Keith, there are so many! I-I knew there were many stars in the sky but from here, you can see each one. Though, I do not understand why it is called Milky Way, but oh, the sight is simply beautiful.”“Yeah, I know.”Lance looked down, face flushing once he realized Keith was looking at him, not the stars above.“We shall bring Zira with us next time, I wish for her to know your Father as well.”Keith pulled Lance in close, talking softly into the night. “Sounds wonderful.”“I wish I could put this into a hologram, perhaps Pidge could help me.”“Uh-huh” Keith kissed Lance’s neck but the Prince continued talking about everything except for Keith.“Liah would love this view as well. In fact, the whole team would. I cannot believe you grew up with this, seeing this every night.”“Lance.” Keith whined, this was supposed to be special, just for the two of them!The Prince stopped, smirking at Keith. “Oh, is someone jealous?”“That’s it.”Keith picked up Lance, slinging Lance over his shoulder and ignoring the Altean's shouts as they went back into the house. It was small and cramped, but it was theirs.And Keith found a way to shut Lance up for once.The next morning, Keith woke up early to prepare food, a groaning and whining Lance following moments later complaining about how Keith took the heat with him. They stayed wrapped up while Keith cooked, Lance behind him with his hands around Keith’s waist.They sat down and suddenly everything changed.Seeing Lance in his home, Keith never wanted this to change. He wanted to wake up and fall asleep with Lance, cooking for Zira, flying together. He wanted a home, a place they could call theirs. But most importantly, Keith wanted Lance.“Will you marry me?”Lance choked on his pancake, looking up with wide eyes.“You must ask that now?”“I don’t see what the problem is. I love you Lance, I want to spend my life with you.”“Keeeith! Look at me! I have barely woken up, I am a mess and you must ask that now! No.”“What?”Lance crossed his arms, turning away from Keith.“I refuse.”“Again, what?”“I will not accept until I am suitable and you have a ring. We must do this proper, ask me again later.”Keith should have been upset, Lance was saying no for the stupidest reasons in the world, but instead he laughed. The man he was in love with was stubborn and knew what he deserved. Keith could find some rings, that wouldn’t be too hard.Keith was then called by the Blade, a planet with the same landscape as Daibazaal had been found. The planet had no life, it seemed as though Red’s sacrifice didn’t just bring back Altea. Finally, there was a home for the Galra.The next year was full of work for both Lance and Keith. Keith worked with the Blades, fighting off those who tried to attack Daibazaal or the Marmoran ships. Meanwhile, Lance and his team were searching sector by sector for families and citizens who wanted a new start.Daibazaal was soon full of new people, newly mates and half-bloods looking for something fresh. All were welcome, as long as they agreed with the rules of the Coalition.There would be no more wars, the Galra were not to be treated as evil and the Galra were not to think themselves better than other races. It would take time for these teachings to become normal, but the Blade would be there every step of the way.Once most of the population was relocated, Lance got a new job as a pilot instructor while Keith joined the Red Aid.Kolivan came up with the idea, saying that if others say the Galra in a positive way, walls could be broken down. Keith accepted the job, surprisingly with Ezor and Zethrid and many other Galra. With Zira old enough, Keith would bring her along for trips, showing her the universe. They would spend weeks at home with Lance before flying off to help some new planet here and there.Slowly, Keith and Red Aid changed how the universe saw the Galra. Many people had their ideas, some even attacked Daibazaal thinking all Galra were evil. But Keith would hand supplies to the tallest, biggest Galra on their team and show everyone who they really were.The Galra were not to be feared, not the general population at least.Daibazzal stabilized but they needed a leader. The Blade couldn’t run the planet, the Marmorans were more of a fighting force anyway. Keith suggested a vote and then anyone older than twenty who wished to traveled to Feyiv, the ancient planet of the Galra.Keith stood there with Lance, Zira and Kosmo while Kolivan addressed the people. Jemez, Thace, Krolia, Regris, and other Blades were there as well.[“With the Galran people back on our home planet, it is time for another change. For too long, the people of this civilization have been manipulated by a dictatorship that placed a misguided sense of self-preservation above all else. It was a tragic unfortunate series of events that led us down this dark, never-ending path of power and greed.”] Kolivan called over the crowd, a video being streamed back to Daibazaal and the surrounding systems.[“But now, we, the citizens of the Galra nation have an opportunity to make right all the injustices set into motion by our forefathers. We have been given a second chance to come together in rebuilding our people. With this vote and gathering, we will usher in a new era of peace for our people and the universe!”]The crowd cheered, the younger generation louder than the commanders who were now without a cruiser or leadership position. Keith understood, this all would take time and change was hard. But these steps would lead to a better tomorrow, for their people and for Keith’s family.The votes were cast, some Commanders getting a few votes, Keith got some even though he already said he wouldn’t lead the Galra people, and so did Kolivan. Krolia came in second, popular with the citizens and military but the surprising winner was Jemez.While Keith fought and Lance gathered, Jemez had been on Daibazzal. She refused any other mission, saying her mission was now to help the people. She put the common person first, and it actually wasn’t a surprise that the people chose her.She walked forward, power in her steps as she took a lit torch from the fire pit. The packed arena was silent as she climbed the stairs, no one challenging or even speaking.Jemez held up the torch, high above the crowd.[“For peace!”] She cried before throwing it into the ring at the top.The monument was lit and the Galra cheered, the new Queen of Daibazaal chosen by the people.Things continued to change. The people also voted in a council, Krolia joined it while Kolivan accepted the role as Military leader. Within two years the whole nation had changed.The young were the best and brightest, learning about other cultures and people. Lance gained another class, teaching Altean culture to those who wanted to learn. To everyone’s surprise, his class was full every time he taught. Keith would join as well, talking about Earth and how half-bloods deserved respect like anyone else.It was on their fourth anniversary that Keith finally tried asking again. This time, he asked the Prince on a date so they would both look their best. Keith took him to one of the new gardens, the night was full of stars and the air was calm.And this time, when Keith asked, Lance jumped into his arms and shouted yes for the whole world to hear.With Lance training and the Red Aid being needed less and less, Keith got to spend most of his time with Zira and Kosmo. Though, when he was needed and Lance stayed home, there was nothing better than coming back.When he would come home, Kosmo would be the first to notice, greeting him with licks and nuzzles. Zira would call out, jumping into his arms no matter what she was doing. Lance would be there, sometimes working on a lesson or making dinner. The two would kiss in the doorway, disgusting Zira and their evenings would be calm and wonderful.When Lance came home, the same happened. Kosmo would alert them, Zira would run to him, Keith would join them and dinner would be full of them all talking about their day.And when they sat in the hospital, both holding the little bundle that was their new daughter, Keith felt everything snap into place.He had a home.He had a family.He had a people and a planet to call his own.
---August 2327---
[“Bellator Krolia Koterix!”] Keith shouted, staring at the scribble marks drawn on the wall.Kazir was at school and Zariah was in her playpen which meant there was only one person who could have done this.Bella came around the corner, hands behind her back and a pleasant smile on her face. Her shock of white hair was a mess, but Keith knew his daughter enough to tell she knew she was in trouble.[“Yes, Keke?”]Keith knelt down, making eye contact with her. [“Did you draw on the walls again, dear?”]She hesitated, but nodded slowly.[“Do you remember the rule about not drawing on the walls?”]Another nod.[“Can you tell me why you drew on the wall, Bell?”]She shrugged her shoulders which meant her sweet little brain had acted on instinct. Keith couldn’t blame that, Galra weren’t known for thinking things through. He could punish her though.[“Come on. You’re cleaning it with me.”][“But Keeekeee! It takes so long! I wanna play!”] She complained.Keith dug into the kitchen cabinet, finding the right cleaner. [“Well, it wouldn’t be so long if you didn’t draw.”]He came back out to see her arms folded and a pout on her face. [“Don’t wanna clean.”][“Nope, those are the rules. You make a mess you clean it. You remember how Lala tried to make those cards for my birthday?”] She giggled. [“Well, after that, Lala spent the whole rest of the day cleaning the house of the glue and glitter and the cut up paper. Let’s clean like Lala does.”]Keith had thought having three girls would mean they would all be the same, that they would be easy to raise. Zira was easy, she listened, didn’t complain and was sweet.Keith learned the hard way that every child was different and each needed to be talked to differently. If he told Zira he was disappointed, she’d break down, crying and everything. She wanted to be good and really she was scared to be anything but their little girl. Bella needed the truth and the whole truth. He had to convince her that the rules couldn’t be changed and she tried to change them a lot. Riah, even as a baby, was different as well. She needed structure and routine, crying all night long when a party or event ruined her schedule.Bella finally gave in, taking the cloth though the pout stayed on her face. Together they cleaned and then trained, Bella holding a stick while Keith went through his routines. Riah stayed in the playpen, Kosmo kept her company, the big wolf zapping to Keith’s side whenever she needed anything.Zira came home later, talking all about her day and how excited she was to move up a grade next year. Bella listened the whole time, it was a known fact that Bella would be going to school next year.Then finally, Lance came home.The door was thrown open, Kosmo began to bark, Bella was laughing with Zira while Riah was on Keith’s hip.[“I am home!”] Lance shouted, as if it was any mystery.[“Yes and you’re late. Come on, go get the girls dressed, we have the dinner tonight with the others.”]Lance smiled, pausing for a kiss that was interrupted by Riah. Keith watched him go play with their daughters, heart full of love.Even as a child, he never thought he could hold the world in his hands as he played with his daughters and loved his husband.It was a dream come true, something he thought was impossible.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Lance was many things.Father and partner came first. Taking care of Zira was always his priority and Keith was just below that because well, Zira was a child and Keith was very much not one.He would always be a Paladin, even with the Lions gone. One doesn’t just forget how to fight, Lance was changed and he accepted that.He was also a pilot, an ambassador, a teacher, a diplomat and more. Krolia, Kolivan and Jemez kept coming to him, asking for more help, giving him new titles.[“I want you to teach my Blades how to fly.”] Lance accepted right away, teaching the new generation how to protect their home, and only fight if necessary.[“I would like it if you taught others about Altean history. We shouldn’t forget our past but we must also look to each other to grow as one.”] How could Lance say no to Krolia after she said that?So, some evenings he could teach Altean culture as well, teaching in such a way to not make the new generation feel guilty but also to let them know that mistakes were made. Many people hated the Galra and while it wasn’t right, Lance wanted them to know why so that Zarkon wouldn’t happen again.[“Could you join some of our meetings? I am still learning Altean and the ambassador talks so quickly.”]Jemez was young and busy with now ruling a whole people, Lance couldn’t refuse. He would bring Zira, the young child reading or drawing in the background while he whispered words to Jemez.But if he was being honest, he had two favorite parts in his life. One, was flying. It wasn’t like Blue, and he knew that, but Lance was proud of how the Blue Wing Squad adapted. Every pilot was a great student and Lance got to spend his days flying around like he’d always dreamed.Two, he loved coming home. There was nothing like walking through the door and seeing Keith, Kosmo and Zira. Every night was filled with laughter and joy and Lance wouldn’t change a thing.His work with the Galra made him nearly as popular as Keith. Keith was the Black Paladin, the Galra that ended the war, no one could compare to him. But Lance was always there to aid, helping the average citizen and many remembered it was him that brought them to this planet.Sometimes, when he would go for walks with Zira and Kosmo, he would get just as much attention as Keith. People would stop him, wave or even bow and yes, the attention was nice though a little odd.The Galra he had grown to hate were now his strongest ally. Lance couldn’t believe it, but the people really were changing for the better. The fighting ring was still popular, but it was voluntary and without deaths. But there was also new sports, arts and science centers. The Galra were finally able to get back to their roots, becoming a regular people.Still, it came as a surprise to hear that everyone was ready to celebrate his pairing to Keith. They had told the Blades and Lance told his students and somehow half the planet knew and wanted to be invited.[“What do you mean we are using the royal Ballroom? Ma Amor, how many people did you invite!”][“It’s not my fault. I told Jem and then she told her friends and apparently we’re war heroes which means we need a whole grand ceremony. Trust me, my Prince, I’ve tried fighting but Jemez will not back down.”]Lance sighed, but didn’t pull away from Keith. It wasn’t like Keith planned this, and it did make sense. Both of them are part of the reason Daibazaal even existed in the first place. Still, he was used to Altean pairings, small and familiar.[“We will have to invite all the Paladins as well. But do not tell anyone, we do not want the crowd growing once they find out Shiro or Allura will be there.”]Keith crossed over his heart, bending down to kiss Lance.As if Lance wasn’t busy enough, now they were planning a pairing. Not only that, but they were trying to incorporate all their cultures, Earth, Altea and Daibazaal. It was quite the mess and most nights they fell asleep at the table or couch, too tired to make it to bed.Then they had to explain things to Zira who didn’t understand why it was important.[“But you and Keef are together.”]Lance elbowed Keith who dared to laugh, smiling at their daughter.[“We are, dear, but this is an official way to say we love each other. Lots of people will come to hear me and Keith say our vows, promising to support each other. Then we get to exchange rings and jewelry and then we get to dance.”][“Can I do the dance with you?”][“No, Z.”] Keith said. [“This dance isn’t for kids. Lance and I will have a knife and we dance around, it isn’t safe for children. But, I promise the next dance after that we will dance with you. Alright?”]She mulled it over before finally nodding her head. [“Can I wear a pretty dress?”][“Absolutely.”] Lance pulled her close, the family having one final moment before the chaos.The next day was the perfect day for a pairing. Everyone had gathered, the Paladins and their families in the front and many stared at Allura, Romelle and the twins. Shiro and Adam were there, getting their own looks that seemed a bit much for Adam.Peeking through the door, Lance couldn’t help but grin.Lance had gone through most of his life, the title of Prince more important than his own name. People did things for him, looking for rewards. People treated him differently, expecting punishments otherwise.Lance was the son of Alfor and Melenor, and the twin of Ferukis. He was everything but himself.If there was one thing he was thankful for from the whole war with Zarkon thing, was the fact that he finally got to be himself. Lance spoke his thoughts, shared his emotions and found love. There were moments when old habits crept up on him, saying he was fine when he really wasn’t.Lance had been afraid that being himself would mean he wouldn’t have friends or a lover. But here he was, about to get paired to the love of his life with a room full of friends watching.Lance couldn’t cry yet, he hadn’t even seen Keith or Zira!Krolia turned the corner, Keith at her side and Zira running up ahead and Lance let several tears fall.Zira was in the most beautiful of dresses, white and glittering like a little star. Purple flowers wrapped around her head and even while she ran, her little hands delicately held the box containing their pairing jewelry.Oh, she was just too precious![“Lany!”]Lance knelt down, catching her in a hug before looking up at his soon-to-be husband.Lance himself was dressed in a fitted Black suit, the traditional color for a wedding with light purple flowers pinning his cape to his shoulder. The cape was thin, a feint blue and sparkling just like Zira’s dress. His hair was actually brushed, a small section braided with his usual crown across his forehead.Keith was as handsome as ever, wearing a dark purple, nearly black, suit. The color of the Galra looked wonderful on him, matching purple flowers on his shoulder as well. Keith wore a feint red cape, each holding onto their Paladin title and lion. Keith’s hair was braided, trailing down his back.Lance couldn’t believe it, this was the man he was going to be paired to.Krolia stood there in a dark gown, dressed simply to not draw attention away from him or Keith.Keith reached for him but Lance stepped back, wagging a finger at the Galra.[“No touching until after the pairing. It is tradition.”]Keith rolled his eyes but didn’t fight. Krolia held out her arms, Keith on her right and Lance on her left and finally they entered the hall.The room was silent as they walked other than the quiet music that filled the hall. Everyone turned to look at them but Lance was looking at Keith.To think, this was the beginning of their forever.After this, they would be husbands. They would have children, watch them grow up and then grow old themselves.Their children would grow among the stars, learning about Voltron, Earth, Atlea and Daibazzal.But most importantly, Keith had given Lance a home.All those years ago, he feared going to Earth and losing everything. But here he was, gaining the world.They reached the front and Jemez began to talk about how important this was and how they would need to remember to listen to each other. Lance didn’t listen all that much, he just kept looking at Keith’s beautiful eyes.Then, the doors opened and Kosmo guided Zira down the aisle, white dress glowing.Keith continued to cry, something about white being what you would wear on Earth for weddings. Thinking about that though, only made Lance cry as well.When they found her, Zira was still a child and now here she was, big and walking on her own. Oh, Lance wasn’t ready for her to grow up!Kosmo and Zira reached them, tilting her head at her crying fathers. Keith just motioned for the box and she opened it.{“Lancelot Aarondir Jirvis Altea, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, wear it with happiness and pride, today and always. All that I am, I give to you, all that I have I share with you. I promise to be faithful and loyal, to confide in you and comfort you, to trust and support you for all time, always and forever.”}Keith slipped the silver band on Lance’s finger, the red gem shining in the light.“Keithir Keldrix-Kogane, I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, wear it with happiness and pride, this quintant and always. All that I am, I give to you, all that I have I share with you. I promise to be faithful and loyal, to confide in you and comfort you, to trust and support you for all time, always and forever.”Lance slid the ring onto Keith’s finger, his a bright blue, so they would always have a piece of the other when they parted.Next, they both reached into the box, pulling out silver cuffs, both with a dangling purple gem. Lance did Keith first, and then Keith leaned in to put the earring in Lance’s ear.Zira stepped aside and Kolivan came forward, his box showing two brilliant silver blades. Keith promised they would be dull should something happen, but Keith wasn’t worried.The fight really was a dance. They stood in the middle of the room, the crowd parting for them. They spun around, swords clashing as they met again and again. The dance was ritualistic, but that didn’t stop Lance from pulling on Keith’s hair or Keith from trying to trip Lance with his tail.They met one last time, swords in the middle and then finally, they kissed, husbands at last.The room was full of cheers and the party went long into the night. But, as promised, their first dance as a paired couple they shared with their Zira.
---August 2327---
Lance shifted the fighter, narrowly avoiding another laser.[“Can you please try not to die! I’d like to bring my husband home after this.”] Keith shouted and Lance sent him a grin.Just for effect, Lance spun his craft, firing at the swarm of laser-shooting creatures. Keith hated it when he did this, but Lance was flying, how could he not enjoy it?[“That’s it, now more Marmora Date Nights for you.”]Keith suddenly appeared, taking out a whole section of the blue and orange things. Lance took out the rest and provided that the natives of the planet were able to find the eggs, this sort of thing wouldn’t happen again.Lance pulled his ship over to Keith’s letting the others talk to the natives.[“Come now, amor, you enjoy these dates just as much as I do. Do you not love your sharpshooter?”]That got him. Keith looked over from the other window and Lance still couldn’t believe this man was his. The years had passed by, but Keith was as handsome as ever and to top it all, he was the greatest father in the world.[“Okay, so I’m glad to be out on a mission again, but do you really have to be so, dramatic all the time?”] Lance raised a brow and Keith shook his head. [“Right, better question, when are you not dramatic?”]Lance left him after that, flying down to the rest of the squad. Keith joined him later, hands wrapping around his waist while Keith softly kissed Lance’s neck.“Come now, don’t be mad. You call yourself dramatic all the time. I love your dramaticness, darlin’”Oh, who was Lance kidding, he wasn’t mad in the slightest. But it was nice having the power over Keith. He turned around, looking up at his husband.“Shall we enjoy the rest of the date night then? Krolia will take care of the kids until morning and we both should celebrate a mission well done, darling.”Keith gave Lance’s ship to one of the other students and they left soon after. Just before they reached Daibazaal, they got an incoming message from Coran from Earth.{“Coran! I am glad to see you again!”} Lance leaned over Keith’s chair to respond.{“And I you, my boy. I am calling for the dinner coming up to make sure you are planning on coming. No accepting a mission, Keith.”}Ketih sighed. {“It was one time, Coran and it was an accident. Besides, I don’t think I could with the girls wanting to visit so much.”}Coran smiled through the screen. {“Wonderful! I shall see you soon, be safe Prince, Keith.”}With the call disconnected, Lance forced himself into Keith’s lap, holding Keith’s face as they kissed. They didn’t need words or grand actions, Lance knew Keith loved him and their daughters with his whole heart. Lance felt the same, wishing he had more hours in the day to dedicate to them.They had done it, they had won a war and done their part and finally, Lance was right where he belonged.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The first thing Allura did was take the Atlas to the secret base Merla told them about. They took the Atlas, the former Pilots on the bridge as they finally reunited a broken people. Lance, Ro, Liah and Coran joined them, all ready to find the Alteans.With a wormhole, they were at the base within ticks. Before them was a large Galra fortress, floating without any security or protection.{“Merla, will you contact them? I fear if I do so, it will not go as smoothly.”}{“Yes, your Majesty.”} Merla bowed and Allura had a feeling she’d never get used to that.Moments later the shuttle was docked and Allura was led to a small room. She glanced at Merla, but the Altean just ushered Allura to go through. Hand in hand, Allura and Lance did so.The room was full of Alteans with white hair. Five people stood, a teenager, a man who looked like Ah’Liah, an Altean with dark hair and then, an Altean Allura could never forget.{“Aria!”}The two collided, joined by Lance as they fell to the floor. Allura couldn’t stop touching her, unsure if what she was seeing was real. She knew Ah’Liah was her niece but this was her sister, the girl she hadn't seen in over a thousand decaphoebs.Their baby sister was right there, before their eyes.Eventually they pulled apart, though Lance hadn’t let go of Aria’s hands. Liah was there now, hugging the family as well while Romelle and Coran stood to the side. Until Aria hugged them as well and Coran began to cry.{“How? How is this possible, what happened?”} Allura asked.{“We heard that ships were entering the system and Mother, just, knew. Gran and Dhanny took me away, and soon it was just Dhanny and I on a ship going to nowhere. We were in hiding for a long, long time, we had found another group but we were risky. The Galra knew of our hair color. And then, then Dhanny was gone too.{“Lotor found us, me and Druz. So, so much time had passed and I did not think much of his words, we followed him to the Colony. It seemed perfect there, Druz and I married, we had a girl and all was right. Until he came back and we started to lose people, friends. Again, I did not act, until it was my little girl upon that ship.”} Aria began to cry and Druz stepped forward, holding her shoulders.{“Dellra was first, chosen only at eighteen. The Galra had to practically rip her from my arms, it was terrible. But no one else seemed to care. Marnok was next, though by some ancestor-given miracle, both Ah’Nerix and Ah’Liah were not. Then, then they came for Travik. I thought I would lose them all, I did not expect my daughter to sneak away in the middle of the night and join a war!”}Aria turned, eyes suddenly cold with her hands on her hips. {“What were you thinking young lady? One quintant you are home and the next we cannot find you. Then that woman comes saying you and dear Romelle are traitors. Why did you not tell me? What were you doing?”}{“I-I had to find them. I knew they were out there and I had found a ship. I-I could not let our family be torn apart more.”}{“Oh, my baby.”} Then, Aria started to cry again, holding Liah close.When the tears were dry, Aria stood behind her family while Allura and Lance stared at the Alteans who were technically their nieces and nephews. Even though the son was taller than Lance.{“Children, this is your aunt and uncle, Allura and Lance. Lura, Lot, I would love to introduce you to my babies. Ah’Nerix, Ah’Liah and Drami. The others are, not here right now.”}Allura stood before them, reaching out her hand and the teenager grabbed hold of it. {“Pleasure to meet you.”}Drami shook it strongly and Allura wasn’t so scared.Unsure of how the other Alteans would take her, she crept through the fortress until she found a hidden room. There she found rows and rows of Alteans, frozen in a catatonic state.They worked for vargas, using the pods Coran had finished making to heal the Alteans. Romelle hugged several, skipping around the room as more and more woke up much healthier than they had been. Aria and her family were there as well, crying over their newly awoken siblings and children.Though the recovering Alteans were tired and would need more medical care, Allura needed them to do one more thing.Allura threw open the main doors to where the rest of the Alteans were staying, fully dressed in Altean royal armor. It glittered gold and white, a cape over her shoulders with her hair all the way down. A crown sat on her head and she held her staff as she walked right down the middle. Lance was at her side, dressed the same while Aria and her family followed.Whispers were heard and she saw several glaring at Liah as they walked toward a platform. Allura stood center, filling the hall with her voice, soft yet powerful.{“I am Alluradell Melenor Strai, daughter of Alfor and Melenor, White Paladin of Voltron, and Queen of Altea, hear me now. You have been lied to, tricked. Haggar, the woman you knew as Hanerva used you to further her goals. I am here to tell you that you are free.”}{“What do you mean?”}{“Where is the Great Mother?”}{“Where is our Savior Lotor?”}She raised her hand and the yells from the crowd settled down.{“I understand this will be difficult and there is much for you to learn. But you do not have to trust my own words. Trust the words of your friends, your neighbors, your family members. All we say is true, it is real and it happened.”}Allura stepped back, letting Romelle take the stage.She and Liah talked, about what they had found and why they had left. There were shouts occasionally and Allura would have to bang her staff to get them to quiet. Surprisingly, no one rioted at the end of both of their explanations.The pilots were next and this time, the people listened more. The Pilots talked about the entity, how Haggar controlled them and how everything was a lie. The universe didn’t hate the Alteans, no one knew they were alive. Lotor was behind it all, no one was fighting the Alteans anymore.Finally, Allura called for Coran to let in those who had been taken to the ‘second colony.’ Gasps were heard as Alteans shuffled forward, welcomed by family and friends. It was obvious many were not well and it was time end Haggar’s claim on them.{“Lotor lied long, long ago. He was twisted, much like Haggar and he stole your Quintessence. These poor souls had their energy taken away so Lotor could do experiments. Haggar used your love for him to start a war that was fake. Pilots died, she killed them and she lied to you.{“I am here to give you a fresh start. If you desire, I can get you a shuttle to anywhere in the universe and you all can live whatever lives you wish. Or, I can give you a new planet to call your own.”}The loss of the Lions wasn’t easy for any of the Paladins, though it came with a new surprise. With the spare Quintessence from Voltron's sacrifice, two new planets appeared. One was similar to the biology of Daibazaal while the other was quite similar to Altea.Novus Altea was waiting for them, should the Alteans wish it.{“It is time for us to start anew, make a new life and new connections to the universe. We have been given a second chance, you all have been given a second chance. I beg of you, do not waste it. It is time for us to live.”}To her surprise, most of the Alteans wanted to go to Novus Altea.With that, they began to build anew.Coran was there, working in secret with Linova, both of them giggling when Allura looked their way. The Atlas transported supplies, the Coalition sent all the workers they could and Allura started to teach the Alteans.A school was the first thing built, open to all ages and they were expected to come. Many teachers from other races taught about the history the Alteans missed. It was long and hard, difficult to accept, but it was good for them.Haggar took advantage of them because the Atleans knew nothing. Allura wouldn’t let that happen again. She welcomed all cultures and soon, other races began to live on Altea as well. The majority of the population was Altean, but they were learning to work with others unlike themselves.Alteatown was finished quickly and then, Coran and Linova revealed their surprise. They had built Allura a new castle.The Castle of Lions.She cried and hugged the two of them, surprised by how the building affected her.Time passed and Altea flourished. Allura formed a council, added Merla as her advisor and there was joy on Altea once more.Her relationship with Romelle took a bit more time and honestly, it was all Allura’s fault. They courted, spending every moment together when they weren’t working. Romelle was quite the popular doctor and she worked long vargas, but Allura worked just as long as Queen of Altea.They made it work though and Allura was happy.And she was terrified.Should they continue this relationship and pair, Romelle would be Queen Consort. It would put a ridiculous amount of stress on her shoulders and Allura wished for nothing to weigh down the angel. Romelle was a free spirit, so they stayed in the courtship stage.Until, at one of the balls Altea held another woman got a little close and Romelle burst through like some warrior. Romelle declared their love, saying they were to be paired to the whole room, right then and there.Allura had never been more in love.And so they were paired. The event was the moment of the century, all of Altea celebrated their most beloved Queens. The Paladins came as well, Lance and Hunk crying through the whole thing.And things only got better from there.
---August 2327---
Allura sat in the Juniberry field, watching Ro run around with Claira and Kiren.Allura never thought she would be here again, on Altea, smelling the Juniberries with her family around here. It was like a dream, but this time it was real.Her wife really was there, spinning in a beautiful blue gown. Claira and Kiren were there, dancing around with the wind. Her people were safe, Voltron had completed its mission and the universe was at peace.Some days she woke up back in that war, anxiety holding her heart and mind. But Ro was always there to soothe her, to tell Allura that all was fine.This had Allura hesitating to have children.They were the Queens, it was expected but even so, she was unsure of whether or not they could raise a child. Well, Ro would do just fine, but Allura was still healing.She had her moments of weakness, times of anger and there were scars on her body and mind. Her own childhood was a mess because Mother spent more time mourning her brother than spending time with her children.Allura couldn’t become her mother in that way.Eventually Romelle broke down her wall and volunteered to be pregnant. Nine long phoebs later, they welcomed Clairanem Allura Romelle and Novkiren Alfor Ileni, the Crown Princess and Prince of Novus Altea.Their birth celebration lasted all night long for the people. Romelle and Allura slept, thankful for their army of nurses and maids.Watching her family play amongst the flowers was the best feeling in the world, even with her stomach weighed down by their third child.{“Momma, Momma!”} Claira ran forward, pushing a flower crown upon Allura’s head. {“Now you are Queen of Flowers!”}{“Oh, thank you Claira. Tell me, does this make Mimma Queen of Flowers as well?”}Kiren got the signal and he slapped a crown on Romelle’s head as well. She laughed, picking up Kiren as they began to spin among the juniberries.{“We are going to Earth today, are you excited?”}{“Oh yes! Uncle Lance say he is going to teach me to fly!”} Claira threw up her arms.{“I think you will have to wait a tick, you are way too young to be flying.”}{“Aki’Pidge say you were flying when my age. I can too.”}Allura should have pushed on the rules, no weapons or flying until they were at least fourteen, but she couldn’t hold her own against Claira’s pout.{“We shall see tonight, but do not strangle your cousin this time. Bella likes to get on your nerves for fun.”}Claira pouted. {“Alright Momma.”}{“Now, go, love. Play with your brother.”}{“M alright. Want to say with you.”} Claira bent down, laying her head on Allura’s baby bump.Romelle and Kiren settled down eventually, Romelle out of breath while Kiren continued to ask to be spun upside down.{“Not now. Mimma needs to regain her energy through Momma’s kisses. Come here Queenie.”}Romelle leaned in, stealing several small kisses from Allura which made the twins shriek and giggle, covering their mouths. Allura smiled, kissing once more before pulling Kiren close to kiss all over his face. They spent the rest of the afternoon out there, a normal family for just one quintant.Though, sometimes, when the light was right, Allura would see a pure white lion in the distance, watching over them with a smile.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The Voltron Gardens were beautiful. A monument, a place to rest and more. They were created a year after the end of the war, to commemorate those lost in the war and to remind the next generation to not make the same mistakes. In the middle of the garden was a pool, a statue coming from the water.The five Paladins stood there, each one facing out in a circle posing like they were ready to fight. Slightly above them was Queen Allura, smiling as she looked at the sky.The statue was probably Coran’s favorite part of the garden.The Juniberries were nice, but the monument was where Coran spent most of his time, and when he could, he would sit and look at the heroes of the universe.Allura had offered retirement on Novus Altea, but Coran couldn’t.As beautiful as the planet was, all it did was bring memories to Coran. Memories that were just that, memories and the original Altea was gone.He couldn’t walk those streets knowing Alfor and Melenor weren’t there. He couldn’t live there, knowing Iwan and their children were gone. No, it was better to move forward and Earth was nice.Their culture was oh so strange but Coran got to spend his time walking through the gardens, telling humans and other races alike about what it was like to work with the great Paladins of Voltron.Besides, Coran wasn’t alone. His granddaughter moved here as well, often working with Pidge on new ideas and inventions. Linova would come to the gardens to think, enjoying the peace and quiet.The Voltron Gardens were free of cost, open to all except for one night. Every year on August second, the Garden was closed. The whole day, Coran would gather supplies, working with those who kept the garden organized to set up for the night to come. The night to celebrate the anniversary of the end of the Voltron war.A table would be set up, more and more seats each year. Time seemed to pass quicker on Earth, Coran couldn’t believe it had already been five years already.The sun was hidden by the horizon and lights filled the garden. Coran stood at the entrance, dressed in his finest as he waited.He didn’t have to wait long before he heard the sound of people in the garden.“And then I jumped to the panel and hit the whip. The guy dropped to the floor and that’s how your Dad and I met after he was kidnapped.”“Cool!” A small voice cheered.They came into view, the family walking along the path toward the fountain. Pidge and Kim were in the front, Pidge holding small Terran while Matt and O'Sem followed. Behind them were Sam and Colleen, smiling at their children. Coran welcomed them and they gathered around the large table.Linova was next, kissing Coran’s cheek before sitting with Pidge to talk. Hunk and Shay arrived moments later, filling in more seats at the table. Shiro, Adam and Leon followed after, Shiro walking slowly with a cane while Leon stuck close to his fathers sides. Acxa and Veronica followed, taking their seats and talking to the others.Coran joined them at the table, those traveling from space would take a little longer to arrive. The Atlas always arrived early, giving its crew time to rejoin their family on Earth.The conversation at the table was loud and chaotic, Pidge and Hunk talking while Matt quietly conversed with O'Sem, Sam and Shiro sharing words as well. Terran sat at the water's edge with Colleen, looking up at the great statue.“Hello!” At the call, they turned to look at the entrance where Lance stood, waving. Behind him was Keith, Bella, Zira, Kosmo, Krolia, Kolivan and Jemez.Zira looked around, scanning the table but seeing that Allura wasn’t there yet, the girl settled near Keith’s side. Krolia and Kolivan joined Acxa while Lance went around the table, greeting the Paladins and showing off their newborn.A wormhole formed above them, the Altean Castle entering Earth's atmosphere. The team stood, watching it land off in the distance. Coran waited with the others, watching as Allura joined them, Claira and Kiren toddling ahead while Romelle stuck to Allura’s side. Behind them was the rest of the royal family, Aria, Druz, Dellra, Marnok, Nerix, Liah, Travrik and Drami.The evening was full of laughter and joy as they all shared stories of what had happened in the past year. O'Sem showed off baby Terran while saying they were expecting another, Pidge was going to become a teacher, Lance and Keith were wanting another child, Allura talked about another peace treaty with a planet wanting to join the coalition. and Drami said she and Corlen were engaged.Slowly, as the night went on, people started to leave. Matt and O'Sem carried away their tired child. Adam claimed Leon needed to finish some homework and the two went home. Zethrid, Ezor, and Nyma were next, saying they had things to do in the morning. Krolia and Kolivan left with little Bella, Zira and Kosmo, Acxa and Veronica disappeared as well. Aria’s family was last, Liah and Nerix carrying little Claira and Kiren.And then they were seven, five Paladins, a Queen and an advisor.While meeting with the whole crew brought joy to everyone involved, nothing was quite like the quiet dinners with just the Paladins.“So, another kid, huh?” Shiro smiled.Lance bounced in his seat. “Yes! We have been talking for quite a long time and well, I grew up in a large house and I would love to give Zira and Bella siblings. Things are stable, and I would like to think we’re ready. Though, we have started the process, we are unsure of how long it will take.”“You guys took care of Zira, I’m sure you’ll do fine.” Hunk had a bittersweet smile on his face.Allura changed the conversation quickly. {“How are you and Shay, Hunk? I have heard of your great diplomatic work, but are you alright?”}He shrugged. “Things are rough here and there, but we’ve been visiting Balmera more. Rax has a little girl now and Shay is obsessed with her niece. Understandable, she’s a perfect little doll. We’re, we’re okay.”Pidge reached over, touching his shoulder while the conversation shifted to Altea and Daibazaal. Allura spoke of how the people were adjusting and how they were rebuilding. Keith and Lance talked about Daibazaal, how the Galra were improving, and that Lance was nearly as much a figurehead as Keith. Hunk shared his adventures, the people he met and the meals he prepared, talking with wild gestures that nearly knocked down the drinks several times. Pidge proudly stated that they had been invited to teach at the Garrison, a class on alien technology for the next generation. Keith scoffed, but it was true, even though it was a strange idea. Shiro took over after with his own stories of the Atlas, the crew and the areas of space they had explored.Coran sat back and smiled, thankful for the family he had before him.Things had changed, but maybe that wasn’t so bad.
---August 2, 2327---
The table had gotten nearly too large for the area, they had over fifty people invited now. Year after year, more people joined, children were born and the family grew. Sometimes, people couldn’t make it, the journey was too far or they had other plans. The guest list changed every year and Coran loved hearing about new additions.Like usual, the Atlas crew came first.Matt and O’Sem walked in hand in hand, Terran skipped in first, Charlie and Josiah were right behind laughing and pushing each other while Aleesha was carried by Sam. Behind them were Kim, Pidge, and Colleen. Linova greeted them, cooing at the baby and forcing Terran and Josiah to settle down.Acxa and Veronica entered with a newborn in their arms, a new addition Coran went over to meet. Antonia McClain was a smiling babe with bright eyes already shining like the stars. With them was Ah’Liah and Hunter and they moved over to the table as noise started to grow in the garden.And then, came Shiro, Adam, and Leon. Shiro was last, wheelchair pushed by Adam as they entered the garden. Coran moved over to greet them, nodding his head at the family.“Coran. Wonderful to see you again.” Shiro held out his hand and Coran lightly shook it.“Shiro, my boy, it is always an honor to see you again. Come, we have a seat made for you and Adam.”“I already have my seat.” Shiro said, as if he’d never told the joke before.Coran just shook his head, letting them move over to the table.Others arrived, rebels like Nyma, her daughter Irna and their robot Beezer. Zethrid and Ezor showed up, laughing once more with Acxa.Hunk, and Shay came next, trays of food following with the rest of the crew of the Yellow Kitchen. Pidge began to cheer, talking about how long it had been since they had such good food. Shay bragged, saying she got to eat it all the time.Moments later, Lance and Keith arrived with their own group of children. Zira, Bella and Riah. With them came Krolia, Kolivan and several other Blades. Keith explained that Jemez was busy but that she sent her love to everyone here. Being Queen was never easy, that was something Coran knew very well.Like usual, Allura came last. Dressed like the Queens they were, Allura and Romelle strolled into the garden with Claria and Kiren following behind. Allura was slower, Romelle staying by her side and helping with the weight of their soon-to-be-born child. The sun was setting and it was time for dinner.As always, the dinner was loud and chaotic, the children demanding things from their parents, Hunk and Pidge laughing, Keith and Lance arguing while several conversations spanned the table. Allura confirmed the baby was due soon, she was tired and ready for them to be born as well.The night continued on and the stories changed to the past. With the years, the stories of the Voltron War were lighter and they shared the better parts. Times the Paladins got locked into someone’s jail, when the Rebels were left sneaking around and life on the colony. This was always Linova’s favorite part, hearing about the things she never got to see.Coran was content to sit and watch, an empty chair next to him.Coran had lost all his children long ago. They and Iwan were taken from him much too early and Coran carried that weight every day.But on nights like this, he was with his family again. He spent time on Earth with Pidge and Kim, talking to Pidge’s students about space. He traveled with Hunk and Shay, doing his part to help arguing planets settle down. He stayed on the Atlas with Adam and Shiro, seeing the stars and explaining everything he knew to Linova and Leon. He visited Daibazaal, proud to see how far Lance and Keith had come as individuals and as a couple.And he visited Novus Altea, watching as Allura smiled in peace, as Romelle glowed, as their children lived happily. He saw the flowers bloom and the seasons change as Altea flourished.He’d lost his children and nothing would replace them. Still, somehow, these Paladins became his children, their families were his as well. Coran supported them, comforted them and Terran often called him grandfather just like Linova did.Yes, Coran was content to sit here and listen, surrounded by his family.Eventually the others left, the children were sent off to sleep and they were alone. One Queen, five Paladins and an advisor.“I mean seriously, though, Earth has come a long way. It's a hub for all space activity with the newly updated Teludav technology. I’m just glad the long working nights are finally over!”“Well, that’ll make travel for all of us much easier, those of us without a wormhole podium.” Hunk said, looking at Shiro.“I’ve told you, Yellow Kitchen can always get a wormhole. Just ask, Hunk. Anyway, how are things going on Daibazaal, Keith?”“There’s been questions about an election, Jemez has been Queen for ten years and since she’s the first, no one knows how long she should serve. I worry that if there’s another election though, that everyone will just vote for her again.”“Please, Keith here is more worried that they will vote for him. He has been asked many times, even to be a representative to the Coalition and he simply says no every time.”“I have children at home and really, being a leader isn’t my thing. It sucked, my Prince, it really sucked. Leading a humanitarian force is hard enough.”Lance just rolled his eyes, sitting close to his husband with a grin.“I do not know why you hesitate, Keith, you were a great leader.”Pidge snorted, covering their mouth while Keith glared.“You learned to be a great leader.” Allura continued. “Leading is never easy, but you have Lance and the rest of us. Should you change your mind let me know.”Keith shook his head. “Yeah, not happening, sorry Lura.”Pidge finally laughed again, joined by Hunk and Lance.“Why don’t we talk about Altea now, that sounds great to me.” Keith deflected.“Nothing happens on Altea, I think that is the best part. The people have adjusted remarkably well, the planet is thriving and all I worry about is my swollen feet. Groggery, why must pregnancy be so difficult?”Lance shrugged. “I wouldn’t know.”Allura retaliated by throwing a bread roll at his head."Hey, that bread was carefully kneaded and baked, respect them, Lura. I worked hard on everything here.""And I see why people stop fighting while eating this food." Pidge said with their mouth food."I'll have you know, I have done more peace missions than even the Atlas, if you don't couldn't the stuff before Haggar." Hunk crossed his arms proudly.Keith rolled his eyes playfully. "Yes, because as a chef, you are the most important person in the Coalition."Hunk retaliated by throwing bread at him this time and soon everyone was throwing rolls at someone.Coran finally stood, catching their attention and the last roll fell into Pidge's ice cream.“I propose a toast and though it may sound selfish, this toast is for us. For the trials we faced, the mountains we climbed and the people we lost. You Paladins are amazing, facing everything the universe threw at you and coming out on top. You lost your families, parts of yourself, your past, and sometimes it seemed, you lost your future.“But you never backed down. We went through it all, sometimes apart but most of the time, we were together. We fought and grew and won and came out better because of it. Each of you changed, and I can see how you all became better because of the war.“Watching you grow has been the best part of my life. You are adults now, teaching, leading, growing and guiding others. You were children when this all started and looking at you, I wonder where the time has gone. You have families of your own and it is my honor to be a part of all of you. So I raise this cup to you, for surviving, for living freely at last. To us!”“To us!” The others raised their glasses as well, meeting in the middle before they drank.Suddenly the sky lit up and they watched as a glowing purple rock soared through the atmosphere, heading right toward them. The group stood in shock as it crashed, impacting the ground just beyond the garden.Then they were running, Keith and Lance had weapons in their hands while Shiro and Allura stayed on the platform. Coran joined them, watching as Pidge and Hunk inspected the area.The ground had been damaged by the crash, but Coran couldn’t see any rock or asteroid. Until he stepped forward.In the ground was a small black rock with glowing blue lines over the whole surface. Pidge stood near it, holding out a scanner while the others crowded around them.Everything was silent, waiting to see what it was. Pidge stood, facing the group with wide eyes.“Well, what is it?” Keith asked when Pidge didn’t talk.They looked up and gave a wide grin.“It’s, it’s a shard of Voltron.”

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We finished!First, I want to thank you guys for bookmarking, and leaving kudos and comments on my fics. I love every notification and I love knowing you guys like this story as much as I do. Fun fact, we just reached 10,000 hits on Gathering of Soldiers!That being said, I'm sure y'all noticed that the ending really isn't an ending. I have some small plans for a second series but I'm unsure. I have ideas for their kids and the shards, and I'll end up writing that anyway but I don't know if I'll end up posting them.Also, I have some small plans for the life of the Paladins after the end of the war and all that, happy moments, not so happy moments.Let me know if you guys want one of them or both of them and I'll post those stories.Once again, thank you and I hope you enjoyed my fanfic!

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So, I've written some chapters about life after the war, snapshots really of things they did and so on. Would y'all rather read them separated by character or chronologically and all the stories mixed together? I'm uncertain on which is better because they are involved with each other's lives, and there will be references and new characters added. I'd love to know, so if you could comment below I'd really love it. Thanks!