School Days
Part XIII
The Threat From Sector G29
By KittyCaro
Disclaimer: Characters from the Adventures of Voltron and the New Adventures of Voltron are copyright 1984, 1985, 1986 and 1997 by WEP. Any and all new/original characters belong to the author.
Rating: R for some sexual situations, violence and bad language.
Author’s notes: This is an AU fic about Keith and Allura. Sources for this fic were the article "Making your Office Safer" from Time Magazine (10/29/01), the booklet from the NT 3400™ Security Management Information System from Simplex Time Recorder Company. And King Alfor's advice to Allura was inspired on Estela Aguirre's column "Minutos de Sabiduría" from "La Voz."
C&C are welcomed.
Originally Published 02/04/2002 - Revised 03/07/2015
Rating: R for some sexual situations, violence and bad language.
Author’s notes: This is an AU fic about Keith and Allura. Sources for this fic were the article "Making your Office Safer" from Time Magazine (10/29/01), the booklet from the NT 3400™ Security Management Information System from Simplex Time Recorder Company. And King Alfor's advice to Allura was inspired on Estela Aguirre's column "Minutos de Sabiduría" from "La Voz."
C&C are welcomed.
Originally Published 02/04/2002 - Revised 03/07/2015
Click on the following links to move along to that chapter.
December 29th, 2303
The snow was falling heavily as darkness descended on Arus, as my guards and I rode our horses in direction of the castle, after visiting my aunt Orla. The trail would have been impossible to find if they had not come with torches in hand to guide us home. I led the party through the gates and slipped easily from my saddle. Then I walked directly through the open doors of the old castle.
I crossed the great hall and entered my father's study. He sat on the couch reading a book, near the blazing fireplace.
"Dad?"
He looked up and held out his hand to me. "Come here, my child."
I took his hand, and he drew me gently to his side, kissing my forehead. "Your fingers are cold; I'll ask Nanny to bring you some chocolate. You need to warm your blood and bring roses to your cheeks."
"Wait, dad, it's been so long since we have talked. I need your advice. What can I do to stop Zarkon and Lotor's wickedness?"
He took off his reading glasses and looked down at me. "There are no evil persons, Allura… they might be ailing, or they simply ignore the supreme law that we receive what we give."
"How can you say that, after what Zarkon did to you and mom?"
His glance softened. "The sick need a cure. The one who's evil needs to see the light. But we can't, under any circumstances, act with hatred and malignancy."
"But dad, what if that evil person doesn't want to see the light? What if he only wants to see your loved ones suffer, because you won't yield to his demands?"
He smiled encouragingly, and then continued. "Those are lessons you must learn by yourself. Do your best to teach everyone with your example, so they can understand that evil is a transient condition of men."
I sighed deeply, and then I looked up at him. "I'll try."
"Now tell me, are you certain of your love for the Commander of the Voltron Force?"
"Of course I am!" I cried, still clutching his hand nervously. "How could I not love him, after all we have been through?"
"Allura, I believe you are not sure of what you want, and that's why you haven't made your relationship public," he said, ignoring my outburst. "As for Keith, he probably hopes to gain stature and power through you."
"No!" I gasped, looking desperately at him. "Keith is not like that."
"You need a man who is totally loyal to you and your cause. You need a man the people of Arus will cleave to and obey. Your mother and I have discussed this matter thoroughly, and we are one mind. The time has come for you to marry, and we have chosen a husband for you."
"But dad-"
"Allura, cease your complaints and tell me you will obey us."
I frowned. "I am not happy in my heart, father, but I will obey you," I said reluctantly.
He patted my hand in his. "Sometimes is difficult to obey and understand. Nonetheless obey we must, my darling daughter. Do not fear. The knight that we have chosen for you is a good man." He turned his head briefly. "Young man, come to my side," he called.
He put my hand into the large hand of the faceless knight. "As King of Arus and father of Princess Allura, I give her to you as a wife with all her goods and properties. Will you treat her with love and respect, and defend her planet in her name?"
"I will, Your Majesty, as God is my witness," the familiar voice said quietly.
I snapped my head up, and looked at the knight, dressed in a burgundy uniform with bands of golden embroidery on the sleeves and neckline.
"You!"
"That's right, Allura," Keith answered with a warm smile.
I glanced at father, and saw a twinkle in his brown eyes. "Keith is a good man, Allura. You and our people will be safe in his hands, as will the Castle of Lions and Voltron."
"Oh, father," I whispered, reaching out to kiss him, only to be stopped by someone calling me…
"Princess, come on child. Time to get up!"
I opened my eyes and turned my head toward the far end of the bedroom, and saw Nanny with a tray of food.
"Nanny?"
"Didn't you tell me that you have a meeting with Coran and the Voltron Force at 10 o'clock?"
I glanced at the clock on the night table. "9:42? Oh my God!" I jumped from the bed, wincing at the freezing marble beneath my feet. I ran to the bathroom and took a quick shower, and then pulled my pink jumpsuit and white boots. I told Nanny that I didn't have time for breakfast, but she insisted that I have a glass of orange juice and a small plate of oatmeal with diced peach.
Afterwards, I grabbed my white shawl and hurried to the conference room. When I got there, the boys were watching a 3D image of the Lions on the TV, drinking coffee and chocolate, conferring and pointing to coordinates marking the Lions' proposed patrol flight for New Year's Day.
"G-good morning… everyone," I said, trying to catch my breath.
They turned around. Hunk smiled warmly and gave a quick nod. A grin seized Pidge's face. Lance flashed one his trademark smiles, the kind that according to Lisa and Ginger make women faint and make men (especially space explorers) ball their hands into fists.
"Good morning, Princess!"
I looked pass them- and saw him. Tingling delight swept through me at the sight of him, dressed in his crimson flight suit and white boots. He always filled the room with his presence, stopped my breath with his tentative smile, and warmed my heart with his chocolate eyes framed with long, ebony lashes.
Those who say that men cannot be beautiful haven't met the Captain of the Voltron Force.
"Keith?" I half whispered.
His smile faded, and his expression turned severe. "Princess," he replied, giving me a curt nod. "You're ten minutes late."
The boys glowered at him. "C'mon Keith," Pidge quipped. "What are a few minutes?"
"Coran isn't here anyway," Lance snapped.
"Yeah," Hunk said, "he's in a videoconference with the new Prime Minister of Mora."
But Keith ignored them and continued staring at me. "Rule number one, always be on time," he said in a not-to-be-argued-with voice.
My eyes widened as I felt my heart begin to race. He had used that frightening, inflexible expression of dominion and arrogance back in school, but now his effect on me was more devastating, since I had been held in those strong arms, kissed by those sensuous lips, shared danger and faced death at his side.
I knew he wasn't an evil man; he only wanted to be respected, as was his right.
I lowered my gaze and pulled up my shawl to cover my nervousness, and draped it around my shoulders. "You're right, Keith. I'm sorry." Hopefully, my voice held no hint of the tumult of my emotions.
"We're a team, Princess. Please remember that."
I looked up. His dark eyes were now taking me with their intensity. I could see love, desire, condescension, admiration, male pride- and a sudden tremor ran through my body.
"Are you chilly, Princess? Would you like some coffee or chocolate?" Lance asked.
I shifted to look back at him. "Hmm… coffee, please."
He moved quickly to a shelf, fetched a cup and poured some coffee. "You need to warm your blood and bring roses to your cheeks," he added.
Those were the same words father had told me in the dream, I thought hazily, taking the proffered cup.
I took a sip, and exhaled quietly as the burning sensation set in, and smiled at Lance. "Thank you, you're a sweetheart."
He pressed his hand over his heart. "Some men know how to treat a lady-" Then he scowled at Keith- " And some don't."
Hunk winced. "Man, that hurts."
And Pidge went, "Tsk tsk."
Keith's heavy, dark brows snapped together and his mouth twisted in disgust. "I know *how* to treat a lady. I just don't go babbling about it, like you." He turned away, heading for the computer terminal.
Lance smirked. "Touché," he said, lifting his cup in salute.
I opened my mouth to ask them to stop teasing him, when Coran stepped inside. "Good morning."
"Good morning, Coran."
"Okay, here we go," Pidge said excitedly, clasping his hands together.
The snow was falling heavily as darkness descended on Arus, as my guards and I rode our horses in direction of the castle, after visiting my aunt Orla. The trail would have been impossible to find if they had not come with torches in hand to guide us home. I led the party through the gates and slipped easily from my saddle. Then I walked directly through the open doors of the old castle.
I crossed the great hall and entered my father's study. He sat on the couch reading a book, near the blazing fireplace.
"Dad?"
He looked up and held out his hand to me. "Come here, my child."
I took his hand, and he drew me gently to his side, kissing my forehead. "Your fingers are cold; I'll ask Nanny to bring you some chocolate. You need to warm your blood and bring roses to your cheeks."
"Wait, dad, it's been so long since we have talked. I need your advice. What can I do to stop Zarkon and Lotor's wickedness?"
He took off his reading glasses and looked down at me. "There are no evil persons, Allura… they might be ailing, or they simply ignore the supreme law that we receive what we give."
"How can you say that, after what Zarkon did to you and mom?"
His glance softened. "The sick need a cure. The one who's evil needs to see the light. But we can't, under any circumstances, act with hatred and malignancy."
"But dad, what if that evil person doesn't want to see the light? What if he only wants to see your loved ones suffer, because you won't yield to his demands?"
He smiled encouragingly, and then continued. "Those are lessons you must learn by yourself. Do your best to teach everyone with your example, so they can understand that evil is a transient condition of men."
I sighed deeply, and then I looked up at him. "I'll try."
"Now tell me, are you certain of your love for the Commander of the Voltron Force?"
"Of course I am!" I cried, still clutching his hand nervously. "How could I not love him, after all we have been through?"
"Allura, I believe you are not sure of what you want, and that's why you haven't made your relationship public," he said, ignoring my outburst. "As for Keith, he probably hopes to gain stature and power through you."
"No!" I gasped, looking desperately at him. "Keith is not like that."
"You need a man who is totally loyal to you and your cause. You need a man the people of Arus will cleave to and obey. Your mother and I have discussed this matter thoroughly, and we are one mind. The time has come for you to marry, and we have chosen a husband for you."
"But dad-"
"Allura, cease your complaints and tell me you will obey us."
I frowned. "I am not happy in my heart, father, but I will obey you," I said reluctantly.
He patted my hand in his. "Sometimes is difficult to obey and understand. Nonetheless obey we must, my darling daughter. Do not fear. The knight that we have chosen for you is a good man." He turned his head briefly. "Young man, come to my side," he called.
He put my hand into the large hand of the faceless knight. "As King of Arus and father of Princess Allura, I give her to you as a wife with all her goods and properties. Will you treat her with love and respect, and defend her planet in her name?"
"I will, Your Majesty, as God is my witness," the familiar voice said quietly.
I snapped my head up, and looked at the knight, dressed in a burgundy uniform with bands of golden embroidery on the sleeves and neckline.
"You!"
"That's right, Allura," Keith answered with a warm smile.
I glanced at father, and saw a twinkle in his brown eyes. "Keith is a good man, Allura. You and our people will be safe in his hands, as will the Castle of Lions and Voltron."
"Oh, father," I whispered, reaching out to kiss him, only to be stopped by someone calling me…
"Princess, come on child. Time to get up!"
I opened my eyes and turned my head toward the far end of the bedroom, and saw Nanny with a tray of food.
"Nanny?"
"Didn't you tell me that you have a meeting with Coran and the Voltron Force at 10 o'clock?"
I glanced at the clock on the night table. "9:42? Oh my God!" I jumped from the bed, wincing at the freezing marble beneath my feet. I ran to the bathroom and took a quick shower, and then pulled my pink jumpsuit and white boots. I told Nanny that I didn't have time for breakfast, but she insisted that I have a glass of orange juice and a small plate of oatmeal with diced peach.
Afterwards, I grabbed my white shawl and hurried to the conference room. When I got there, the boys were watching a 3D image of the Lions on the TV, drinking coffee and chocolate, conferring and pointing to coordinates marking the Lions' proposed patrol flight for New Year's Day.
"G-good morning… everyone," I said, trying to catch my breath.
They turned around. Hunk smiled warmly and gave a quick nod. A grin seized Pidge's face. Lance flashed one his trademark smiles, the kind that according to Lisa and Ginger make women faint and make men (especially space explorers) ball their hands into fists.
"Good morning, Princess!"
I looked pass them- and saw him. Tingling delight swept through me at the sight of him, dressed in his crimson flight suit and white boots. He always filled the room with his presence, stopped my breath with his tentative smile, and warmed my heart with his chocolate eyes framed with long, ebony lashes.
Those who say that men cannot be beautiful haven't met the Captain of the Voltron Force.
"Keith?" I half whispered.
His smile faded, and his expression turned severe. "Princess," he replied, giving me a curt nod. "You're ten minutes late."
The boys glowered at him. "C'mon Keith," Pidge quipped. "What are a few minutes?"
"Coran isn't here anyway," Lance snapped.
"Yeah," Hunk said, "he's in a videoconference with the new Prime Minister of Mora."
But Keith ignored them and continued staring at me. "Rule number one, always be on time," he said in a not-to-be-argued-with voice.
My eyes widened as I felt my heart begin to race. He had used that frightening, inflexible expression of dominion and arrogance back in school, but now his effect on me was more devastating, since I had been held in those strong arms, kissed by those sensuous lips, shared danger and faced death at his side.
I knew he wasn't an evil man; he only wanted to be respected, as was his right.
I lowered my gaze and pulled up my shawl to cover my nervousness, and draped it around my shoulders. "You're right, Keith. I'm sorry." Hopefully, my voice held no hint of the tumult of my emotions.
"We're a team, Princess. Please remember that."
I looked up. His dark eyes were now taking me with their intensity. I could see love, desire, condescension, admiration, male pride- and a sudden tremor ran through my body.
"Are you chilly, Princess? Would you like some coffee or chocolate?" Lance asked.
I shifted to look back at him. "Hmm… coffee, please."
He moved quickly to a shelf, fetched a cup and poured some coffee. "You need to warm your blood and bring roses to your cheeks," he added.
Those were the same words father had told me in the dream, I thought hazily, taking the proffered cup.
I took a sip, and exhaled quietly as the burning sensation set in, and smiled at Lance. "Thank you, you're a sweetheart."
He pressed his hand over his heart. "Some men know how to treat a lady-" Then he scowled at Keith- " And some don't."
Hunk winced. "Man, that hurts."
And Pidge went, "Tsk tsk."
Keith's heavy, dark brows snapped together and his mouth twisted in disgust. "I know *how* to treat a lady. I just don't go babbling about it, like you." He turned away, heading for the computer terminal.
Lance smirked. "Touché," he said, lifting his cup in salute.
I opened my mouth to ask them to stop teasing him, when Coran stepped inside. "Good morning."
"Good morning, Coran."
"Okay, here we go," Pidge said excitedly, clasping his hands together.
Planet Arus, Castle of Lions 2303.12.29 1019 hours local time
When Coran entered the conference room, I thumbed the panel on the console, and said, "Computer, load schematic SS-2304-A."
A projection of the castle took place on the table between the console and the doors as the overhead lights dimmed. Everyone moved around the projection. I took up a position near the back of the table, next to Allura.
"For the past three months, we have been working with architects, engineers and security experts from Arus University seeking to minimize the risks of an attack on Arus. We have identified vulnerabilities and, above all, coordinated efforts. Today we will focus on the Castle of Lions."
"First on the list, is the screening at all points of entry; we'll still be using metal detectors and baggage scanners, but we will also be relying on more biometric security. Besides palm prints, we'll confirm identities with a combination of iris scans, retinal patterns, and facial features. And beginning January 1st, all castle staff members and visitors will have to carry an identification card at all times."
Allura's turn came just then. "Access to shipping and handling areas will be tightly controlled. All deliveries will be registered, scanned and logged in before being accepted. Last week, the Castle mailroom began using new imaging techniques to peer into the contents of all envelopes and packages." Then she averted her eyes and said sharply, "I don't want my people exposed to more hazardous materials."
Lance leaned on the rail and gazed at her. "Princess, we have installed high-efficiency particulate air filters that can remove airborne pathogens and other contaminants at fresh-air intakes. The HEPA filters on vents are set off by the presence of nerve gas or a bio-weapon, and they'll remove one hundred percent of particulates larger than one micron in size and prevent their circulation."
He smiled. "If Hagar decides to send us more of her magic flowers, the filters will take care of their spores."
She smiled back at him. "I know."
Coran thought a moment, and then said, "When the robotic mice invaded the castle, they caused all kind of problems."
"That's why all ground-floor vents had been sealed and moved to higher floors to prevent further sabotage from below," Hunk noted.
"And I have ordered to put marble benches, fountains, and sculptures at the front of the Castle as barriers to keep cars, carriages and trucks at a distance," Allura said. "And all waste receptacles that could be used to hide an explosive had been removed."
Then Pidge talked about our new Security Management Information System. He was really excited, because it was a security system that could gather and share important information to augment responsiveness and flexibility.
"The Secura 2304," he went on, "has a wide range of functions, including: access control, fire alarm annunciation, output control, report generation, alarm management, CCTV system control, video badging, elevator control, plus graphical maps and remote site dial-up. Many of the functions can be linked and performed automatically. For example, a breach in security or a card access can activate a camera for a live, real-time viewing on the system monitor; a facility map can appear to pinpoint the precise location of an event."
"Pidge, tell Coran about the reports," I said.
"Okay, Commander. This new system includes a number of reports. It makes it easy to produce historical reports that show even activity such as cardholder's movements, conditions of input and output points, alarms activated, and actions taken. The information processed is distributed among the various intelligent controllers that comprise the Secura 2304 System network. By distributing this intelligence through out the system, rather than relying on all data having to travel to a host computer for processing and then back to the designated controller for action, overall access and processing times are reduced."
Coran nodded in understanding, and then traced one finger around the perimeter of the survey line. "What are these blue dots?"
Hunk stepped closer to the projection. "Those are security cameras. We have installed more cameras that will spot trouble and offer deterrence. The new system has enhanced programming features, which allows the entry of camera titles, programming of timed events, special camera sequences and other system parameters. Flashing an I.D. at the entrance will prompt a check of a visitor's schedule; catching the gaze of a corridor video camera will determine if you normally roam the halls late at night.
He glanced at Pidge, and said, "We'll have proof of your late-night visits to the kitchen."
He grinned at him. "And yours too. I think the only ones not happy with this development are the space mice."
Coran absently tugged on his moustache, purring into a thought. "There aren't any cameras in the Princess' study."
I groaned inwardly. I had hoped that he would not notice that. We couldn't tell him that it was the only place where Allura and I could spend a few moments alone, without causing suspicion.
Flashing her eyes at him, she said, "I asked them not to install cameras in there. My bedroom and my study are the only two places where I can have some privacy, and I'm not willing to lose that right."
"Hmm," he murmured in a way that meant he wasn't convinced. "Princess, I don't think that's a wise idea. Remember when Lotor broke into your-"
"Coran," I said suddenly, "she was an easy target because *you* and Nanny had locked her in her room, she didn't know self-defense nor had a weapon."
The guys looked at me, surprised. They probably thought this was some sort of an apology for my earlier lack of understanding. Well, they were right.
Coran eyed me contemptuously. Mirroring the look, I said, "But now she knows judo and handles a laser gun like an expert. Lotor will have to think twice before trying to break into her study or bedroom."
Everyone awaited Coran's response in complete silence. Moments later, a tight smile appeared on his rugged face.
"Very well, Commander, I'll trust your judgement. Shall we continue with the presentation?"
I gave Allura a sidelong glance, and she was smiling, that all-knowing half smile that hinted she was reading my thoughts, that she remembered the intimacies that had taken place in that room, and she didn't want them to stop.
She reached out and took my hand. I squeezed it, pursing my lips to hide a smile of satisfaction.
"As for the evacuation plan," I said, gently pulling my hand from hers, "each member of the staff has received a hard copy of the new plan. And they have been cooperative at the drills. They know what to do, what not do and when."
"What about other possible targets?" Coran asked.
"We're preparing a plan for all public buildings and public transportation. Currently, all hospitals, schools, museums and shopping malls have basic measures," I said. "Plainclothes guards, patrolling of parking lots and documenting of deliveries. And Lance here will give seminars to hospital and store personnel, faculty members and maintenance crews on watchfulness."
Lance nodded. "The first seminar will take place in the village of Aasgard, on January 3rd."
"And we have issued guidelines to help keep our Olympic Stadium secure for the New Year's Day football game," Hunk said enthusiastically. "We'll have guards everywhere; purses and backpacks will be checked. Parking areas and celebration areas will be restricted. Overhead blimps will be banned. Only the Lions will be able to fly on that day."
Coran nodded appreciatively. "Great job, everyone. You have the full confidence of every man and woman on Arus."
"Thank you," we replied in unison.
"Well, Princess," he went on, "we should leave. We have important business to discuss. Extremely urgent."
"Just give me a few minutes, Coran. I want to speak to the guys about the New Year's Eve celebration-"
"Princess, the future of the kingdom could be at stake."
Coran's look was annoyingly patronizing. I supposed Allura didn't want to make another scene, because she dutifully accompanied her advisor. But I knew quite well what their topic of discussion would be. Now that she had graduated, Nanny and Coran had resumed bothering her with the prospect of marriage. I had to do something to stop them, even if I got in trouble with the Garrison. This situation was becoming intolerable.
When Coran entered the conference room, I thumbed the panel on the console, and said, "Computer, load schematic SS-2304-A."
A projection of the castle took place on the table between the console and the doors as the overhead lights dimmed. Everyone moved around the projection. I took up a position near the back of the table, next to Allura.
"For the past three months, we have been working with architects, engineers and security experts from Arus University seeking to minimize the risks of an attack on Arus. We have identified vulnerabilities and, above all, coordinated efforts. Today we will focus on the Castle of Lions."
"First on the list, is the screening at all points of entry; we'll still be using metal detectors and baggage scanners, but we will also be relying on more biometric security. Besides palm prints, we'll confirm identities with a combination of iris scans, retinal patterns, and facial features. And beginning January 1st, all castle staff members and visitors will have to carry an identification card at all times."
Allura's turn came just then. "Access to shipping and handling areas will be tightly controlled. All deliveries will be registered, scanned and logged in before being accepted. Last week, the Castle mailroom began using new imaging techniques to peer into the contents of all envelopes and packages." Then she averted her eyes and said sharply, "I don't want my people exposed to more hazardous materials."
Lance leaned on the rail and gazed at her. "Princess, we have installed high-efficiency particulate air filters that can remove airborne pathogens and other contaminants at fresh-air intakes. The HEPA filters on vents are set off by the presence of nerve gas or a bio-weapon, and they'll remove one hundred percent of particulates larger than one micron in size and prevent their circulation."
He smiled. "If Hagar decides to send us more of her magic flowers, the filters will take care of their spores."
She smiled back at him. "I know."
Coran thought a moment, and then said, "When the robotic mice invaded the castle, they caused all kind of problems."
"That's why all ground-floor vents had been sealed and moved to higher floors to prevent further sabotage from below," Hunk noted.
"And I have ordered to put marble benches, fountains, and sculptures at the front of the Castle as barriers to keep cars, carriages and trucks at a distance," Allura said. "And all waste receptacles that could be used to hide an explosive had been removed."
Then Pidge talked about our new Security Management Information System. He was really excited, because it was a security system that could gather and share important information to augment responsiveness and flexibility.
"The Secura 2304," he went on, "has a wide range of functions, including: access control, fire alarm annunciation, output control, report generation, alarm management, CCTV system control, video badging, elevator control, plus graphical maps and remote site dial-up. Many of the functions can be linked and performed automatically. For example, a breach in security or a card access can activate a camera for a live, real-time viewing on the system monitor; a facility map can appear to pinpoint the precise location of an event."
"Pidge, tell Coran about the reports," I said.
"Okay, Commander. This new system includes a number of reports. It makes it easy to produce historical reports that show even activity such as cardholder's movements, conditions of input and output points, alarms activated, and actions taken. The information processed is distributed among the various intelligent controllers that comprise the Secura 2304 System network. By distributing this intelligence through out the system, rather than relying on all data having to travel to a host computer for processing and then back to the designated controller for action, overall access and processing times are reduced."
Coran nodded in understanding, and then traced one finger around the perimeter of the survey line. "What are these blue dots?"
Hunk stepped closer to the projection. "Those are security cameras. We have installed more cameras that will spot trouble and offer deterrence. The new system has enhanced programming features, which allows the entry of camera titles, programming of timed events, special camera sequences and other system parameters. Flashing an I.D. at the entrance will prompt a check of a visitor's schedule; catching the gaze of a corridor video camera will determine if you normally roam the halls late at night.
He glanced at Pidge, and said, "We'll have proof of your late-night visits to the kitchen."
He grinned at him. "And yours too. I think the only ones not happy with this development are the space mice."
Coran absently tugged on his moustache, purring into a thought. "There aren't any cameras in the Princess' study."
I groaned inwardly. I had hoped that he would not notice that. We couldn't tell him that it was the only place where Allura and I could spend a few moments alone, without causing suspicion.
Flashing her eyes at him, she said, "I asked them not to install cameras in there. My bedroom and my study are the only two places where I can have some privacy, and I'm not willing to lose that right."
"Hmm," he murmured in a way that meant he wasn't convinced. "Princess, I don't think that's a wise idea. Remember when Lotor broke into your-"
"Coran," I said suddenly, "she was an easy target because *you* and Nanny had locked her in her room, she didn't know self-defense nor had a weapon."
The guys looked at me, surprised. They probably thought this was some sort of an apology for my earlier lack of understanding. Well, they were right.
Coran eyed me contemptuously. Mirroring the look, I said, "But now she knows judo and handles a laser gun like an expert. Lotor will have to think twice before trying to break into her study or bedroom."
Everyone awaited Coran's response in complete silence. Moments later, a tight smile appeared on his rugged face.
"Very well, Commander, I'll trust your judgement. Shall we continue with the presentation?"
I gave Allura a sidelong glance, and she was smiling, that all-knowing half smile that hinted she was reading my thoughts, that she remembered the intimacies that had taken place in that room, and she didn't want them to stop.
She reached out and took my hand. I squeezed it, pursing my lips to hide a smile of satisfaction.
"As for the evacuation plan," I said, gently pulling my hand from hers, "each member of the staff has received a hard copy of the new plan. And they have been cooperative at the drills. They know what to do, what not do and when."
"What about other possible targets?" Coran asked.
"We're preparing a plan for all public buildings and public transportation. Currently, all hospitals, schools, museums and shopping malls have basic measures," I said. "Plainclothes guards, patrolling of parking lots and documenting of deliveries. And Lance here will give seminars to hospital and store personnel, faculty members and maintenance crews on watchfulness."
Lance nodded. "The first seminar will take place in the village of Aasgard, on January 3rd."
"And we have issued guidelines to help keep our Olympic Stadium secure for the New Year's Day football game," Hunk said enthusiastically. "We'll have guards everywhere; purses and backpacks will be checked. Parking areas and celebration areas will be restricted. Overhead blimps will be banned. Only the Lions will be able to fly on that day."
Coran nodded appreciatively. "Great job, everyone. You have the full confidence of every man and woman on Arus."
"Thank you," we replied in unison.
"Well, Princess," he went on, "we should leave. We have important business to discuss. Extremely urgent."
"Just give me a few minutes, Coran. I want to speak to the guys about the New Year's Eve celebration-"
"Princess, the future of the kingdom could be at stake."
Coran's look was annoyingly patronizing. I supposed Allura didn't want to make another scene, because she dutifully accompanied her advisor. But I knew quite well what their topic of discussion would be. Now that she had graduated, Nanny and Coran had resumed bothering her with the prospect of marriage. I had to do something to stop them, even if I got in trouble with the Garrison. This situation was becoming intolerable.
Doom Castle December 29 2303 1439 local time
I entered the dining hall with Coba, through a small side door. Prince Lotor was sitting on the high board, Cossack sitting on his right. A line of serving women hurried back and forth with platters and bowls. A young girl filled the goblets with red wine, which were set at each plate. There was game and spiced poultry with bread, wild berries and cheese.
I tilted my head to see if I could hear what Cossack was saying to Lotor.
"His Majesty requested your presence, sire. But if you want to see Princess Romelle, I could say you are ill, but that would cause consternation, I fear."
A devious smile crossed Lotor's features. "There's no need," he replied, then picked up a red berry between two fingers and concentrated all his attention on it. "I can visit her later." And his fingers closed, squashing the fruit.
Cossack gave him a toothy grin. "I'll tell the guards to have the princess ready for you, sire."
A nervous Morgill approached them with a computer slate. "Sire. I brought you a report from Sector D-28." He proffered the slate.
Lotor waved a dismissive hand at him. "Read it to me."
He nodded his acknowledgement. "One of our surveillance stations on the border of D-28 reported another attack by the Shadow Robeast."
"Shadow Robeast? Hah! What a bunch of crap," Cossack said, taking a bite of rabbit.
Lotor glared at him, and he flashed a guilty glance and mumbled, "Forgive me, sire."
"What the devil are you talking about?" the Prince asked, eyeing Morgill with unflappable contempt.
"Sire, something or someone has been killing guards on that sector. This is the fifth incident in the past eight months."
"The fifth?!"
Pursing his lips, he nodded. "Yes, milord."
"When you found the first discrepancy, you should have reported it to me!"
"I know, sire, but-"
Lotor stood, knocking his plate and goblet to the ground- a true sign of his agitation. He grabbed the fool by the collar, forcing his body down on the table.
"And why didn't you?!" he said harshly.
"I thought I could solve this problem myself, sire!"
"Well, this report proves that you're incapable of accomplishing even the simplest tasks!" And with a growl he released him.
The simpleton lay prone over the table and remained quiet, while Cossack filled his mouth with bread, crunching loudly. They knew the wrong word might spark the killing-rage in Lotor. That all-controlling feeling dwelled just beneath his skin, and once ignited, the feeling could blaze until one or both officers lay dead in its ashes.
Two slaves hurried over to clean up the mess, and Lotor sat down again. "Modus operandi?" he asked his tone a notch less condescending.
Morgill arose very slowly. "This creature is very strong, sire. It approaches its victims from behind, and breaks their necks in one swift move. Then drags them behind the sand dunes and strips them off their uniforms."
Cossack gave him a puzzled look. "That thing leaves them in their underwear?" he said. "What a weirdo."
"Yes, and also takes their laser guns and swords," he added.
Lotor closed his eyes to blot out his fury. His voice rang out in the silence of the hall, harshly cold. "At least we're getting rid of the weaklings and the idiots. See that his body is thrown into the Pit of Skulls."
"Yes, milord," he said, bowing.
"And you better find the culprit soon," he warned him, "or you will find yourself in the company of those dimwits."
I chuckled, noting how pale Morgill had become at his words. "Y-yes, sire. You can rely on me," he said, bowing once again, and then departed the dining hall.
"Hagar?"
I turned quickly at the sound of my Prince's delightful voice. "Yes, sire?" I said sweetly.
"You don't have anything to do with this mysterious creature, do you?"
"Me?" I looked up, feigning outrage. "Of course not, sire. My pets don't waste their time peeling their food, they eat them whole."
Lotor's eyes narrowed upon my face for a moment. "I see. Innocence shines in your eyes, old witch."
Then a scantly clad slave- who had a striking resemblance to his Princess Allura- gave him a wet cloth to wipe his hands and face with.
He used the towel, and standing before her, leaned over and brushed his lips lightly against hers.
She closed her eyes and a sigh escaped her lips. The little fool was in love with her master, but she knew that she would never capture his heart.
Then he turned to me. "Come," he said brusquely, "my father is expecting us."
The doorkeepers flung open the doors, and we stepped in, followed by Cossack.
"Father," he said reverently, bending his knee in a slight curtsy.
"Lotor, I'm so glad you had decided to join us," he told him with a chuckle. "Have you grown tired of asking your little prisoner to share your bed?"
With a slight growl, he forced himself to his feet, and glared at his father, his eyes filled with anger.
"She's probably as pious as her cousin is. Admit it, my foolish son; you will gain little pleasure from those creatures!"
Zarkon did not believe Lotor could present Arus and Princess Allura as gifts to him. And his father's beliefs had become public knowledge by the way of servant's loose tongues. He had even threatened him with relieving him of his command and sending him into exile. If Zarkon only knew that those biting comments were paving the way to his destruction.
"I'll find a way, father. You can mark my words," he replied dryly.
Zarkon smirked at him. "Hagar, you said that you have a surprise for us," he said, his gaze flickering briefly toward me, "that we would be pleased. What is it?"
I left his question hung unanswered, and took out a small iridescent cube from within the folds of my robe and inserted it in the slot of the huge view screen on the wall. Seconds later, a representation of the universe stretching from deck to overhead appeared, drawing their attention.
"Listen sire, and I will tell you about the beginning of time. When the universe was just a simple breeze swirling, floating through eternity. That was before the coming of the great explosion… an explosion that blew the universe apart, creating trillions and trillions of galaxies, nebulas, black holes, quasars, and of course, certain oddities."
Zarkon stared dubiously at me. "Oddities?"
"Yes, such as the Omega Comet."
And seconds later, a pulsating, constantly moving black sphere appeared on the screen.
"It looks like a comet, but acts like a black hole, destroying everything within its range. Long ago, Voltron removed the comet hiding it in a far corner of the universe, where it could do no harm. Nobody has been able to discover where Voltron put it."
Zarkon snorted loudly. "Why do you waste my time, you old windbag? Every child in planet Doom knows that story, and it's just that, a story. There never was any Omega Comet."
I glared at him. "You're wrong, Zarkon. I have found it. Of course, if you're not interested…"
He bared his yellowed canines at me. "Don't play with me, witch. Where is it?"
"It's out there, in Sector G29. It's the perfect weapon to destroy planet Arus."
Lotor chuckled softly. "Arus, huh?" And then he said, "Cossack, bring Princess Romelle."
"Yes, sire," he replied, turning on his heel and walking off.
"Now, why don't we send a ship to retrieve this Omega Comet?" Lotor suggested, still intent to the screen.
"It's already on its way," I said casually.
The databar beside the comet showed thousands of scrolling coordinates in space-time, coordinates being feed into the main computer of the castle. A red blip designated by tiny letters as The Raven lay at the view screen's center. The blip flashed as it moved toward the comet.
Lotor slid over to the communication control. "We better get the captain," he said, punching in the senior officer's frequency. "Starship Raven. This is Prince Lotor. Status?"
"Robot commander to Planet Doom- I sighted the comet and I'm pursuit."
And suddenly, we heard a shriek. "Ack! I'm been bombarded by gravitrons… the ship will be destroyed. I repeat… the ship will be destroyed!"
"Of course it is," I said wickedly. "That's the whole idea."
A burst of static crackled over the intercom, followed by another burst, and then silence.
Zarkon's jaw dropped. "You… you destroyed one of my best starships!"
I couldn't help laughing at the pained expression on his face. "Take it easy, Zarkon, easy. We had to sacrifice that ship to get the rings to the surface of the comet. Those rings will allow you to control the most deadly weapon in the universe, by surrounding it with my favorite substance- nuclear radiation."
Cossack and Romelle stepped into the throne room. The Prince glanced back and smiled.
"Ah, Princess Romelle, you got here just in time. We're planning a maneuver, which I'm sure you would want to watch. Right, Hagar?"
I glanced at his captive. "That's right. I'm sure you have heard of the Omega Comet. As you can see, we have found it. But I'm afraid we'll to have to knock it off course."
The white rings engulfed the comet, forcing it to change course. Utter shock gripped Romelle's face, and she took a step backwards.
"Don't worry, my pet. It's not coming this way," I said teasingly. "It's going on the opposite direction, to a distant little planet, called Arus."
Her blue eyes widened. "No," she gasped softly.
"When it comes within one million hectars of Arus," I continued, "its gravitons will reach the surface pulling out everything!"
And exciting images of buildings, bridges and people being pulled out into a swirl of death and destruction appeared on the screen.
Romelle immediately walked over to Lotor and stood by his side. "You mustn't do this, Lotor," she pleaded. "You have no right to destroy Arus."
"My power gives me the right, princess," he stated, still gazing trance-like at the screen.
Undeterred by his statement, the princess raised her chin defiantly at him and clenched her hands into fists. "I'll find a way to stop you, Lotor. I swear it!"
He turned to her, and his eyes crinkled as he smiled with genuine amusement. "You might be a princess in your planet, but here you're nothing but a slave. There's nothing you can do."
By the look on her pale face, I could swear the little kitten wanted to claw his eyes out. Too bad Lotor ordered Cossack to take her back to her cell. Oh well, you can't have fun all the time.
I entered the dining hall with Coba, through a small side door. Prince Lotor was sitting on the high board, Cossack sitting on his right. A line of serving women hurried back and forth with platters and bowls. A young girl filled the goblets with red wine, which were set at each plate. There was game and spiced poultry with bread, wild berries and cheese.
I tilted my head to see if I could hear what Cossack was saying to Lotor.
"His Majesty requested your presence, sire. But if you want to see Princess Romelle, I could say you are ill, but that would cause consternation, I fear."
A devious smile crossed Lotor's features. "There's no need," he replied, then picked up a red berry between two fingers and concentrated all his attention on it. "I can visit her later." And his fingers closed, squashing the fruit.
Cossack gave him a toothy grin. "I'll tell the guards to have the princess ready for you, sire."
A nervous Morgill approached them with a computer slate. "Sire. I brought you a report from Sector D-28." He proffered the slate.
Lotor waved a dismissive hand at him. "Read it to me."
He nodded his acknowledgement. "One of our surveillance stations on the border of D-28 reported another attack by the Shadow Robeast."
"Shadow Robeast? Hah! What a bunch of crap," Cossack said, taking a bite of rabbit.
Lotor glared at him, and he flashed a guilty glance and mumbled, "Forgive me, sire."
"What the devil are you talking about?" the Prince asked, eyeing Morgill with unflappable contempt.
"Sire, something or someone has been killing guards on that sector. This is the fifth incident in the past eight months."
"The fifth?!"
Pursing his lips, he nodded. "Yes, milord."
"When you found the first discrepancy, you should have reported it to me!"
"I know, sire, but-"
Lotor stood, knocking his plate and goblet to the ground- a true sign of his agitation. He grabbed the fool by the collar, forcing his body down on the table.
"And why didn't you?!" he said harshly.
"I thought I could solve this problem myself, sire!"
"Well, this report proves that you're incapable of accomplishing even the simplest tasks!" And with a growl he released him.
The simpleton lay prone over the table and remained quiet, while Cossack filled his mouth with bread, crunching loudly. They knew the wrong word might spark the killing-rage in Lotor. That all-controlling feeling dwelled just beneath his skin, and once ignited, the feeling could blaze until one or both officers lay dead in its ashes.
Two slaves hurried over to clean up the mess, and Lotor sat down again. "Modus operandi?" he asked his tone a notch less condescending.
Morgill arose very slowly. "This creature is very strong, sire. It approaches its victims from behind, and breaks their necks in one swift move. Then drags them behind the sand dunes and strips them off their uniforms."
Cossack gave him a puzzled look. "That thing leaves them in their underwear?" he said. "What a weirdo."
"Yes, and also takes their laser guns and swords," he added.
Lotor closed his eyes to blot out his fury. His voice rang out in the silence of the hall, harshly cold. "At least we're getting rid of the weaklings and the idiots. See that his body is thrown into the Pit of Skulls."
"Yes, milord," he said, bowing.
"And you better find the culprit soon," he warned him, "or you will find yourself in the company of those dimwits."
I chuckled, noting how pale Morgill had become at his words. "Y-yes, sire. You can rely on me," he said, bowing once again, and then departed the dining hall.
"Hagar?"
I turned quickly at the sound of my Prince's delightful voice. "Yes, sire?" I said sweetly.
"You don't have anything to do with this mysterious creature, do you?"
"Me?" I looked up, feigning outrage. "Of course not, sire. My pets don't waste their time peeling their food, they eat them whole."
Lotor's eyes narrowed upon my face for a moment. "I see. Innocence shines in your eyes, old witch."
Then a scantly clad slave- who had a striking resemblance to his Princess Allura- gave him a wet cloth to wipe his hands and face with.
He used the towel, and standing before her, leaned over and brushed his lips lightly against hers.
She closed her eyes and a sigh escaped her lips. The little fool was in love with her master, but she knew that she would never capture his heart.
Then he turned to me. "Come," he said brusquely, "my father is expecting us."
The doorkeepers flung open the doors, and we stepped in, followed by Cossack.
"Father," he said reverently, bending his knee in a slight curtsy.
"Lotor, I'm so glad you had decided to join us," he told him with a chuckle. "Have you grown tired of asking your little prisoner to share your bed?"
With a slight growl, he forced himself to his feet, and glared at his father, his eyes filled with anger.
"She's probably as pious as her cousin is. Admit it, my foolish son; you will gain little pleasure from those creatures!"
Zarkon did not believe Lotor could present Arus and Princess Allura as gifts to him. And his father's beliefs had become public knowledge by the way of servant's loose tongues. He had even threatened him with relieving him of his command and sending him into exile. If Zarkon only knew that those biting comments were paving the way to his destruction.
"I'll find a way, father. You can mark my words," he replied dryly.
Zarkon smirked at him. "Hagar, you said that you have a surprise for us," he said, his gaze flickering briefly toward me, "that we would be pleased. What is it?"
I left his question hung unanswered, and took out a small iridescent cube from within the folds of my robe and inserted it in the slot of the huge view screen on the wall. Seconds later, a representation of the universe stretching from deck to overhead appeared, drawing their attention.
"Listen sire, and I will tell you about the beginning of time. When the universe was just a simple breeze swirling, floating through eternity. That was before the coming of the great explosion… an explosion that blew the universe apart, creating trillions and trillions of galaxies, nebulas, black holes, quasars, and of course, certain oddities."
Zarkon stared dubiously at me. "Oddities?"
"Yes, such as the Omega Comet."
And seconds later, a pulsating, constantly moving black sphere appeared on the screen.
"It looks like a comet, but acts like a black hole, destroying everything within its range. Long ago, Voltron removed the comet hiding it in a far corner of the universe, where it could do no harm. Nobody has been able to discover where Voltron put it."
Zarkon snorted loudly. "Why do you waste my time, you old windbag? Every child in planet Doom knows that story, and it's just that, a story. There never was any Omega Comet."
I glared at him. "You're wrong, Zarkon. I have found it. Of course, if you're not interested…"
He bared his yellowed canines at me. "Don't play with me, witch. Where is it?"
"It's out there, in Sector G29. It's the perfect weapon to destroy planet Arus."
Lotor chuckled softly. "Arus, huh?" And then he said, "Cossack, bring Princess Romelle."
"Yes, sire," he replied, turning on his heel and walking off.
"Now, why don't we send a ship to retrieve this Omega Comet?" Lotor suggested, still intent to the screen.
"It's already on its way," I said casually.
The databar beside the comet showed thousands of scrolling coordinates in space-time, coordinates being feed into the main computer of the castle. A red blip designated by tiny letters as The Raven lay at the view screen's center. The blip flashed as it moved toward the comet.
Lotor slid over to the communication control. "We better get the captain," he said, punching in the senior officer's frequency. "Starship Raven. This is Prince Lotor. Status?"
"Robot commander to Planet Doom- I sighted the comet and I'm pursuit."
And suddenly, we heard a shriek. "Ack! I'm been bombarded by gravitrons… the ship will be destroyed. I repeat… the ship will be destroyed!"
"Of course it is," I said wickedly. "That's the whole idea."
A burst of static crackled over the intercom, followed by another burst, and then silence.
Zarkon's jaw dropped. "You… you destroyed one of my best starships!"
I couldn't help laughing at the pained expression on his face. "Take it easy, Zarkon, easy. We had to sacrifice that ship to get the rings to the surface of the comet. Those rings will allow you to control the most deadly weapon in the universe, by surrounding it with my favorite substance- nuclear radiation."
Cossack and Romelle stepped into the throne room. The Prince glanced back and smiled.
"Ah, Princess Romelle, you got here just in time. We're planning a maneuver, which I'm sure you would want to watch. Right, Hagar?"
I glanced at his captive. "That's right. I'm sure you have heard of the Omega Comet. As you can see, we have found it. But I'm afraid we'll to have to knock it off course."
The white rings engulfed the comet, forcing it to change course. Utter shock gripped Romelle's face, and she took a step backwards.
"Don't worry, my pet. It's not coming this way," I said teasingly. "It's going on the opposite direction, to a distant little planet, called Arus."
Her blue eyes widened. "No," she gasped softly.
"When it comes within one million hectars of Arus," I continued, "its gravitons will reach the surface pulling out everything!"
And exciting images of buildings, bridges and people being pulled out into a swirl of death and destruction appeared on the screen.
Romelle immediately walked over to Lotor and stood by his side. "You mustn't do this, Lotor," she pleaded. "You have no right to destroy Arus."
"My power gives me the right, princess," he stated, still gazing trance-like at the screen.
Undeterred by his statement, the princess raised her chin defiantly at him and clenched her hands into fists. "I'll find a way to stop you, Lotor. I swear it!"
He turned to her, and his eyes crinkled as he smiled with genuine amusement. "You might be a princess in your planet, but here you're nothing but a slave. There's nothing you can do."
By the look on her pale face, I could swear the little kitten wanted to claw his eyes out. Too bad Lotor ordered Cossack to take her back to her cell. Oh well, you can't have fun all the time.
Planet Arus, Castle of Lions
2303.12.29 1320 hours local time
Following our meeting with Coran, Hunk and I changed into our uniforms and went to the hangar to see if the flight crews had serviced Yellow and Black Lion.
We stepped inside the hangar and walked down the flight line. Our ships were resting in landing pads outlined in bright yellow. Red and Green had left yesterday, and Blue was scheduled for service tomorrow at 0800.
Scores of white-suited techs stood atop, below, or beside the Lions, some in the blue glow of torches, some on rolling ladders, and all wreathed in the fumes of heated metal, burned rubber, hydraulic fluid and paint.
I couldn't help smiling. While civilians- Allura included- would wrinkle their noses at the smell, the guys and I felt right at home.
I lifted a computer slate from a rolling tool cart. The slate showed Black Lion's mission status. I had brought it in less than eighteen hours ago, from a security patrol on the outskirts of Althair. The flight crews would never run out of work because every time they fixed a Lion, one of us would take it out and get shot up again. If I were among them, I would find the job exceedingly aggravating, and probably would have a hard time keeping that feeling from the pilot who had ruined my work. So I greatly respected these people who kept our ships in great shape.
Hunk walked toward Yellow, and gently touched its massive left cheek. "You're looking good," he said beaming. "Those ugly pockmarks are gone and you have a new coat of paint."
"The crew did an excellent job on the lions," I remarked, replacing the slate.
Then the chief engineer crossed in front of us. "Commander, Lieutenant, your ships are ready."
"Thanks!" Hunk said happily, climbing onto Yellow's head.
"Thank you, Mr. Jensberg." Then turning to Hunk, I said, "I'll see you in the rec room."
"Okay, Chief!" he replied, jumping into the cockpit.
I climbed onto Black Lion's head and lowered myself into the pit. Once seated, I slipped on my helmet and ran through the preflight check, while the crews below made their final walk-rounds on the Lions, running scanners and their own gazes over every seal and bolt.
I threw a pair of toggles, powering up the megathrusters, as Hunk did the same. I then dialed up to his comm channel.
"Black Lion to Yellow Lion. Comm check. Roger."
"Comm established," he replied, flashing me a thumbs-up on the left VDU (Visual Display Unit).
"All moorings are clear," I said, reading my panels. "External power disengaged. Internal systems nominal, roger."
"Roger. I'm fully detached and ninety into the sequence."
The deck-master waved me toward my launch position. Black walked several meters, and lined up with the runway.
"Commander, you are cleared to launch," the flight boss told me.
"Roger, Boss. Thanks again." I punctuated my statement with a roar of the thrusters, and flew out of the hangar.
2303.12.29 1320 hours local time
Following our meeting with Coran, Hunk and I changed into our uniforms and went to the hangar to see if the flight crews had serviced Yellow and Black Lion.
We stepped inside the hangar and walked down the flight line. Our ships were resting in landing pads outlined in bright yellow. Red and Green had left yesterday, and Blue was scheduled for service tomorrow at 0800.
Scores of white-suited techs stood atop, below, or beside the Lions, some in the blue glow of torches, some on rolling ladders, and all wreathed in the fumes of heated metal, burned rubber, hydraulic fluid and paint.
I couldn't help smiling. While civilians- Allura included- would wrinkle their noses at the smell, the guys and I felt right at home.
I lifted a computer slate from a rolling tool cart. The slate showed Black Lion's mission status. I had brought it in less than eighteen hours ago, from a security patrol on the outskirts of Althair. The flight crews would never run out of work because every time they fixed a Lion, one of us would take it out and get shot up again. If I were among them, I would find the job exceedingly aggravating, and probably would have a hard time keeping that feeling from the pilot who had ruined my work. So I greatly respected these people who kept our ships in great shape.
Hunk walked toward Yellow, and gently touched its massive left cheek. "You're looking good," he said beaming. "Those ugly pockmarks are gone and you have a new coat of paint."
"The crew did an excellent job on the lions," I remarked, replacing the slate.
Then the chief engineer crossed in front of us. "Commander, Lieutenant, your ships are ready."
"Thanks!" Hunk said happily, climbing onto Yellow's head.
"Thank you, Mr. Jensberg." Then turning to Hunk, I said, "I'll see you in the rec room."
"Okay, Chief!" he replied, jumping into the cockpit.
I climbed onto Black Lion's head and lowered myself into the pit. Once seated, I slipped on my helmet and ran through the preflight check, while the crews below made their final walk-rounds on the Lions, running scanners and their own gazes over every seal and bolt.
I threw a pair of toggles, powering up the megathrusters, as Hunk did the same. I then dialed up to his comm channel.
"Black Lion to Yellow Lion. Comm check. Roger."
"Comm established," he replied, flashing me a thumbs-up on the left VDU (Visual Display Unit).
"All moorings are clear," I said, reading my panels. "External power disengaged. Internal systems nominal, roger."
"Roger. I'm fully detached and ninety into the sequence."
The deck-master waved me toward my launch position. Black walked several meters, and lined up with the runway.
"Commander, you are cleared to launch," the flight boss told me.
"Roger, Boss. Thanks again." I punctuated my statement with a roar of the thrusters, and flew out of the hangar.
After returning Black to its pedestal, I went to the mailing room. All castle correspondence had been detained for inspection since the invasion of Hagar's magic flowers back in November, so we had to send our Christmas greetings to our families via videophone. Even our presents had been quarantined, but the postal workers had promised to have them ready by today.
I stepped into the front office. Mr. Ottoson was standing there, waiting. He was a burly man in his early fifties, with black hair and steel gray eyes.
"Ah, Commander. Knut is pulling extra duty at the new scanners today, so you'll have to wait a few minutes for your mail." He said this in a straight, informal way, but there was a note of strain in his voice.
"Okay, I'll be back later."
"Got a minute?" he said quickly. He waved toward his office. I nodded and followed him into the room. He sat down on his desk, and I folded a straight seat out from the wall to perch on.
He scratched his graying sideburn. "I've been hearing some rumors. Talk about Zarkon using more chemical weapons, but serious this time, dead serious. My wife and daughter got sick with those evil flowers he sent us a few weeks ago. But fortunately their symptoms were treatable with the roses of Lyra that Lieutenant Lance brought."
He stared off into space. "But people say that demon is preparing something worse for us."
"Mr. Ottoson, the Voltron Force is giving the finishing touches to a new security system. We'll give Zarkon a demonstration of what we can do."
He smiled wryly and then frowned. "I hope you're right, Commander."
Knut entered the office and handed me a plastic basket filled with letters, magazines, music catalogs and Christmas presents. He was a tall, wiry fellow with red hair and green eyes. He couldn't be more than twenty years old.
"Here's your mail, Commander. Sorry to keep you waiting."
I noticed I had gotten to my feet without being aware of it. "That's alright. Thanks." I saw a golden envelope with French postmarks, and I smiled.
My present for Allura had finally arrived.
Knut picked up a smaller basket and said, "I'm going to deliver the rest of Her Majesty's correspondence."
"I'll take it," I offered quickly.
He glanced at me. "Are you sure?"
"Yes, I have to see her anyway."
"Oh, alright. Thanks, Commander. I appreciate that." And he placed the basket on top of mine.
"Don't mention it."
I stepped into the front office. Mr. Ottoson was standing there, waiting. He was a burly man in his early fifties, with black hair and steel gray eyes.
"Ah, Commander. Knut is pulling extra duty at the new scanners today, so you'll have to wait a few minutes for your mail." He said this in a straight, informal way, but there was a note of strain in his voice.
"Okay, I'll be back later."
"Got a minute?" he said quickly. He waved toward his office. I nodded and followed him into the room. He sat down on his desk, and I folded a straight seat out from the wall to perch on.
He scratched his graying sideburn. "I've been hearing some rumors. Talk about Zarkon using more chemical weapons, but serious this time, dead serious. My wife and daughter got sick with those evil flowers he sent us a few weeks ago. But fortunately their symptoms were treatable with the roses of Lyra that Lieutenant Lance brought."
He stared off into space. "But people say that demon is preparing something worse for us."
"Mr. Ottoson, the Voltron Force is giving the finishing touches to a new security system. We'll give Zarkon a demonstration of what we can do."
He smiled wryly and then frowned. "I hope you're right, Commander."
Knut entered the office and handed me a plastic basket filled with letters, magazines, music catalogs and Christmas presents. He was a tall, wiry fellow with red hair and green eyes. He couldn't be more than twenty years old.
"Here's your mail, Commander. Sorry to keep you waiting."
I noticed I had gotten to my feet without being aware of it. "That's alright. Thanks." I saw a golden envelope with French postmarks, and I smiled.
My present for Allura had finally arrived.
Knut picked up a smaller basket and said, "I'm going to deliver the rest of Her Majesty's correspondence."
"I'll take it," I offered quickly.
He glanced at me. "Are you sure?"
"Yes, I have to see her anyway."
"Oh, alright. Thanks, Commander. I appreciate that." And he placed the basket on top of mine.
"Don't mention it."
I entered the rec room and saw Hunk and Pidge at the large table in the corner. I placed the baskets of mail on the sectional, and then served myself a cup of black coffee.
"Can I join the great debate?" I asked Hunk. He smiled and moved over to give me room, straightening the collar on his brown vest.
"You look a little peaked, Keith," Pidge said. "Were you kept waiting too long at the mailing room like us?"
Pidge was rapidly finishing off a plate of eggnog cheesecake, while Hunk was enjoying a plate of dark chocolate and mint baked Alaska.
"Only a few minutes. But I didn't like what Ottoson told me about rumors flying around the castle, regarding an attack from Doom. That's the last thing we need right now."
Hunk furrowed his brow. "We didn't have a Christmas festival because of them," he said bitterly. "And don't be surprised if they decide to visit us on New Year's Eve."
"Then we should celebrate this evening instead." I had not noticed that Lance was standing behind me with a glass of berry juice; he had come over to the table just in time to hear the news.
"Where have you been?" I asked suspiciously.
He smiled slightly. "With the Princess, in her study. I gave her a basket of fresh baked mini croissants. That's her favorite French pastry." Then he gave me an innocent look, and said, "Didn't you know?"
"Crossaints-" then I stopped. Better to ask her later, in private. "Uh, no," I said, and then took a quick sip of coffee.
Lance placed his glass on the table and sat next to Pidge. "After the Princess gave me a kiss on the-" He smiled at me. "-On the cheek, she told me that I was her favorite French import. My pastries were a close second."
Brightening, Pidge added, "Yeah, but French pastries are filled with preserved fruit or whipped cream, and you're just full of shit."
Lance made a choking sound. "W-what? That ain't nice!" he cried indignantly.
We chuckled loudly.
"Listening to the truth ain't always nice," Hunk said.
Lance tossed an ugly look at him. "Exactement, mon gros ami." (Exactly, my fat friend)
One nanosecond Hunk sat before his plate, the next one he stood and hit Lance on the arm. "What did you just call me?"
"Gros," he replied defiantly.
Hunk grabbed his jacket and drove him into the wall. "Careful!" Lance bristled. "You're wrinkling my jacket."
He smiled devilishly, raising an eyebrow. "That ain't the only thing you're gonna have wrinkled after I'm finished with you!"
Pidge came up behind Hunk and leapt on his back, slinging an arm under his chin. Likewise, I slipped my arm around Lance's neck and began prying him away.
"He called you fat, Hunk," I stated. "Now leave him alone!"
His eyes snapped wide. "He did? Take that back!"
Lance stared unflinchingly at him. "No!"
"Just because I indulged myself during the Holidays doesn't mean I'm fat!"
"Do you want me to bring you a scale?"
"You're just jealous because you don't have a great physique like mine!"
I groaned inwardly. "For Chrissake, if you ladies don't stop this nonsense, the *three* of you are going to spend New Year's Eve on security patrol!"
"Why me?!" Pidge gasped, still clinging to Hunk.
"Because you started it!"
"C'mon Keith, I was only joking," he whined.
Hunk gave me slight glance and said, "Me too, Capitán. I wasn't going to hurt Lance… too much." And then he released him.
Lance straightened his jacket and smiled at him. "Sorry, Big Guy, I was only trying to say that there's *more* of you to love. Your fans must be sooo happy!"
Hunk shrugged his shoulders. "Of course they are," he replied matter-of-factly. "You should read the hot letters I get from them!"
"And I'm sorry too, Lance." Pidge said. "You're not full of you-know-what. At least not all the time, anyway."
"Pidge," I said in a warning tone.
His head lifted with a start. "What did I do now?"
Lance made a sound of annoyance and then moved closer to the big display screen on the wall that showed the placement of the Lions and general traffic around the castle.
I turned to him and said, "How's the Princess?"
He drove both hands through his hair and held his breath for a long, silent moment. "She tries to give a brave face, saying that she's ready to celebrate the New Year. But I know she's worried about her cousin."
"And we haven't heard from our spies in weeks," Hunk said worriedly. "Do you think they were captured or killed?"
"I don't think so. Lotor would be gloating by now," Lance pointed out.
"Bandor is getting desperate," Pidge said anxiously. "He's afraid Lotor is going to kill his sister."
"He won't, Romelle is too valuable," I stated. "She's the only one who knows the codes to their defense system. They can't invade Pollux without them."
"We must save her," Pidge went on.
"I agree, but during our training at the Academy, we were told, ‘Plan, plan, and plan some more. Then execute the plan'."
Lance closed his eyes and sighed. "And we also were told, ‘No plan ever survives initial contact with the enemy'."
"Yes, that's why we must be well prepared, but also flexible and willing to innovate when things- over which we have no control- begin to happen. We didn't count on Bandor and Romelle trying to defeat Lotor by themselves."
"At least we were able to rescue Bandor and Romelle's Ladies in Waiting," Lance remarked.
Hunk placed a comforting hand on Pidge's shoulder. "Let's hope we hear from Princess Romelle soon."
Then we convinced Pidge to launch himself into a monologue about the improvements he had made to the castle's computer system, using some terms I couldn't follow. He's the resident genius. He's short, intense, and talks faster than most people can think. Sometimes faster that he can think.
"Little Buddy," Hunk said through a mouthful of Alaska, "have you thought about writing computer programs and sending them back to Terra?"
"Nah, you know I'm no business man."
"Hmm," Lance said, "that doesn't sound like the Pidge I know. Why write computer programs if there's no profit in it?"
Pidge looked shocked, and he was almost a good enough actor to be convincing. "Lance, underneath this green shirt, beats the heart of an artist. You-"
"Spare us your sensitivity," he interjected. "What are you going to do after our assignment?"
"My plan is to open a computer consulting firm and write computer programs and manuals for the Garrison and the private sector."
Then he gazed at me. "I have seen you scribbling away in your palmtop, and there has to be money in it somewhere."
"Oh, you mean my diary."
"Diary?" they said in unison.
"Sure, I've been keeping one ever since we left Terra, almost two years ago." I looked around at them, surprised. "You mean you three don't have diaries?"
They all shook their heads. "What profit is there in a captain's log?" Hunk asked.
"Think about it," Lance said, running his finger absentminded around the inside of his glass. "Here we are twenty light years away from Terra, flying the most powerful machines anyone could imagine. Don't you think people back home will read an account of life out here, written by-"
"A handsome and brave space explorer?" I finished amusedly.
Lance smiled. "I wouldn't say that. But you never know what crap a publisher would put in his advertising."
I made a face at him. "Well, you don't have to worry about that, because I will never publish my diary. A lot of people wouldn't like what I wrote about them, present company included." I finished my coffee and stood up.
Lance chuckled softly. "Say, mon Commandant, have you managed to tear away from your diary to write the report for Graham?"
"Sure," I said, walking to the sectional. "Almost finished. I just need to download it from my new Pocket PC to the castle's main computer. But I haven't had time to finish reading the manuals." Then I glared at Pidge. "Maybe I should have bought another Palmtop, instead of listening to you."
He rolled his eyes at me. "Keith, don't start. They're easier to use, and I haven't had problems with mine. Besides, your old Palmtop was beyond repair. That will teach you never to carry your handheld when you jump into the chute."
Just remembering the sound of the computer crashing on the floor next to my shuttle made me cringed.
"Fortunately, I had backed up all my data two days before." Then I picked up the baskets. "Well, I'll see you later. I'm going to read my mail."
"Can I join the great debate?" I asked Hunk. He smiled and moved over to give me room, straightening the collar on his brown vest.
"You look a little peaked, Keith," Pidge said. "Were you kept waiting too long at the mailing room like us?"
Pidge was rapidly finishing off a plate of eggnog cheesecake, while Hunk was enjoying a plate of dark chocolate and mint baked Alaska.
"Only a few minutes. But I didn't like what Ottoson told me about rumors flying around the castle, regarding an attack from Doom. That's the last thing we need right now."
Hunk furrowed his brow. "We didn't have a Christmas festival because of them," he said bitterly. "And don't be surprised if they decide to visit us on New Year's Eve."
"Then we should celebrate this evening instead." I had not noticed that Lance was standing behind me with a glass of berry juice; he had come over to the table just in time to hear the news.
"Where have you been?" I asked suspiciously.
He smiled slightly. "With the Princess, in her study. I gave her a basket of fresh baked mini croissants. That's her favorite French pastry." Then he gave me an innocent look, and said, "Didn't you know?"
"Crossaints-" then I stopped. Better to ask her later, in private. "Uh, no," I said, and then took a quick sip of coffee.
Lance placed his glass on the table and sat next to Pidge. "After the Princess gave me a kiss on the-" He smiled at me. "-On the cheek, she told me that I was her favorite French import. My pastries were a close second."
Brightening, Pidge added, "Yeah, but French pastries are filled with preserved fruit or whipped cream, and you're just full of shit."
Lance made a choking sound. "W-what? That ain't nice!" he cried indignantly.
We chuckled loudly.
"Listening to the truth ain't always nice," Hunk said.
Lance tossed an ugly look at him. "Exactement, mon gros ami." (Exactly, my fat friend)
One nanosecond Hunk sat before his plate, the next one he stood and hit Lance on the arm. "What did you just call me?"
"Gros," he replied defiantly.
Hunk grabbed his jacket and drove him into the wall. "Careful!" Lance bristled. "You're wrinkling my jacket."
He smiled devilishly, raising an eyebrow. "That ain't the only thing you're gonna have wrinkled after I'm finished with you!"
Pidge came up behind Hunk and leapt on his back, slinging an arm under his chin. Likewise, I slipped my arm around Lance's neck and began prying him away.
"He called you fat, Hunk," I stated. "Now leave him alone!"
His eyes snapped wide. "He did? Take that back!"
Lance stared unflinchingly at him. "No!"
"Just because I indulged myself during the Holidays doesn't mean I'm fat!"
"Do you want me to bring you a scale?"
"You're just jealous because you don't have a great physique like mine!"
I groaned inwardly. "For Chrissake, if you ladies don't stop this nonsense, the *three* of you are going to spend New Year's Eve on security patrol!"
"Why me?!" Pidge gasped, still clinging to Hunk.
"Because you started it!"
"C'mon Keith, I was only joking," he whined.
Hunk gave me slight glance and said, "Me too, Capitán. I wasn't going to hurt Lance… too much." And then he released him.
Lance straightened his jacket and smiled at him. "Sorry, Big Guy, I was only trying to say that there's *more* of you to love. Your fans must be sooo happy!"
Hunk shrugged his shoulders. "Of course they are," he replied matter-of-factly. "You should read the hot letters I get from them!"
"And I'm sorry too, Lance." Pidge said. "You're not full of you-know-what. At least not all the time, anyway."
"Pidge," I said in a warning tone.
His head lifted with a start. "What did I do now?"
Lance made a sound of annoyance and then moved closer to the big display screen on the wall that showed the placement of the Lions and general traffic around the castle.
I turned to him and said, "How's the Princess?"
He drove both hands through his hair and held his breath for a long, silent moment. "She tries to give a brave face, saying that she's ready to celebrate the New Year. But I know she's worried about her cousin."
"And we haven't heard from our spies in weeks," Hunk said worriedly. "Do you think they were captured or killed?"
"I don't think so. Lotor would be gloating by now," Lance pointed out.
"Bandor is getting desperate," Pidge said anxiously. "He's afraid Lotor is going to kill his sister."
"He won't, Romelle is too valuable," I stated. "She's the only one who knows the codes to their defense system. They can't invade Pollux without them."
"We must save her," Pidge went on.
"I agree, but during our training at the Academy, we were told, ‘Plan, plan, and plan some more. Then execute the plan'."
Lance closed his eyes and sighed. "And we also were told, ‘No plan ever survives initial contact with the enemy'."
"Yes, that's why we must be well prepared, but also flexible and willing to innovate when things- over which we have no control- begin to happen. We didn't count on Bandor and Romelle trying to defeat Lotor by themselves."
"At least we were able to rescue Bandor and Romelle's Ladies in Waiting," Lance remarked.
Hunk placed a comforting hand on Pidge's shoulder. "Let's hope we hear from Princess Romelle soon."
Then we convinced Pidge to launch himself into a monologue about the improvements he had made to the castle's computer system, using some terms I couldn't follow. He's the resident genius. He's short, intense, and talks faster than most people can think. Sometimes faster that he can think.
"Little Buddy," Hunk said through a mouthful of Alaska, "have you thought about writing computer programs and sending them back to Terra?"
"Nah, you know I'm no business man."
"Hmm," Lance said, "that doesn't sound like the Pidge I know. Why write computer programs if there's no profit in it?"
Pidge looked shocked, and he was almost a good enough actor to be convincing. "Lance, underneath this green shirt, beats the heart of an artist. You-"
"Spare us your sensitivity," he interjected. "What are you going to do after our assignment?"
"My plan is to open a computer consulting firm and write computer programs and manuals for the Garrison and the private sector."
Then he gazed at me. "I have seen you scribbling away in your palmtop, and there has to be money in it somewhere."
"Oh, you mean my diary."
"Diary?" they said in unison.
"Sure, I've been keeping one ever since we left Terra, almost two years ago." I looked around at them, surprised. "You mean you three don't have diaries?"
They all shook their heads. "What profit is there in a captain's log?" Hunk asked.
"Think about it," Lance said, running his finger absentminded around the inside of his glass. "Here we are twenty light years away from Terra, flying the most powerful machines anyone could imagine. Don't you think people back home will read an account of life out here, written by-"
"A handsome and brave space explorer?" I finished amusedly.
Lance smiled. "I wouldn't say that. But you never know what crap a publisher would put in his advertising."
I made a face at him. "Well, you don't have to worry about that, because I will never publish my diary. A lot of people wouldn't like what I wrote about them, present company included." I finished my coffee and stood up.
Lance chuckled softly. "Say, mon Commandant, have you managed to tear away from your diary to write the report for Graham?"
"Sure," I said, walking to the sectional. "Almost finished. I just need to download it from my new Pocket PC to the castle's main computer. But I haven't had time to finish reading the manuals." Then I glared at Pidge. "Maybe I should have bought another Palmtop, instead of listening to you."
He rolled his eyes at me. "Keith, don't start. They're easier to use, and I haven't had problems with mine. Besides, your old Palmtop was beyond repair. That will teach you never to carry your handheld when you jump into the chute."
Just remembering the sound of the computer crashing on the floor next to my shuttle made me cringed.
"Fortunately, I had backed up all my data two days before." Then I picked up the baskets. "Well, I'll see you later. I'm going to read my mail."
I decided to stay in my study after arguing with Coran for the umpteenth time, expecting Nanny to come crashing through the door at any moment, demanding that I leave my post as pilot of Blue Lion and behave more like a princess. And ordering me to start looking for a prince consort.
There was no longer a reason for me to wait they said, my parents got married when mom earned her degree. I had earned mine in Political Sciences a few weeks ago, and they were sure my intended would like to have a wife with ‘higher studies.' But I wasn't in a hurry to become the wife of an arrogant prince or king and do his bidding. There was only one man in the universe I would marry, because I knew he would love me and treat me as his equal, and that man was Keith.
But I couldn't face them right now. I had fought so many battles of late, far too many. I was tired of the constancy of them. Starting with the kidnapping of Romelle by Lotor and her daring escape with her ladies in waiting.
Unfortunately, Lotor followed them and disabled their ship, and they crash-landed on planet Neeve. My cousin ordered her companions to flee, before the Doom guards came into the ship. They have returned to Pollux, where they're anxiously waiting for her.
We heard Romelle's stress call to Bandor, and immediately went to their aid. When we arrived, Lotor and Hagar had captured them. Keith ordered him to release them; Lotor said he would do it, if I go to him. The boys were against the idea, saying that he would not keep his promise. But I couldn't let my dear cousins suffer anymore. I had to do it.
And then, the howling, freezing winds took up, and the snow began to fall heavily. And leave it to Keith to use that storm to our advantage and dream up a daring plan. I would pretend to surrender, but he would take my place halfway, covering himself with snow, while I return to Blue Lion.
Keith later said that he would never forget the expression on Lotor's face when he saw ‘the girl of his dreams.' He turned purple with rage and began cursing at Keith, who brandished a laser gun and ordered him to surrender.
There was a brief struggle, and Lotor managed to disarm Keith, thanks to Hagar's evil blue cat. Lotor was to about to kill him, when a laser beam knocked his lazon sword off his hand.
Keith turned around and saw Bandor pointing a gun at Lotor, and Romelle standing next to him. They had decided that they would take care of him. He was their enemy. He had caused a lot of harm to their father and brother, and had enslaved their people.
Keith tried to talk them out of it, saying that Lotor was dangerous, and vowed to punish him. But he quickly realized that they are as headstrong as I am.
My young cousin threw his laser gun at Keith, and ordered him to leave. He reached for his sword, saying that he would settle the score for his planet. He tried a particularly deft move, but Lotor was able to deflect the blow, throwing him to the snow. Romelle shrieked with her fury and her distress. She pulled out a dagger from her sash, and stabbed wildly at Lotor with it. He cried out and hit her with his open palm. The force was such that she dropped her weapon, and fell into his arms.
Bandor and Keith stumbled back in horror, as he bent and swung Romelle over his shoulder, and carried her back to his starship. My cousin bolted out and tried to follow them, but Keith caught him, promising that we would rescue her.
But that was almost two months ago, and we haven't heard from her, or our spies. The mere thought of Lotor hurting Romelle is frightening. Oh God… please let her get home safely. Bandor and my uncle Cova miss her so much.
There was no longer a reason for me to wait they said, my parents got married when mom earned her degree. I had earned mine in Political Sciences a few weeks ago, and they were sure my intended would like to have a wife with ‘higher studies.' But I wasn't in a hurry to become the wife of an arrogant prince or king and do his bidding. There was only one man in the universe I would marry, because I knew he would love me and treat me as his equal, and that man was Keith.
But I couldn't face them right now. I had fought so many battles of late, far too many. I was tired of the constancy of them. Starting with the kidnapping of Romelle by Lotor and her daring escape with her ladies in waiting.
Unfortunately, Lotor followed them and disabled their ship, and they crash-landed on planet Neeve. My cousin ordered her companions to flee, before the Doom guards came into the ship. They have returned to Pollux, where they're anxiously waiting for her.
We heard Romelle's stress call to Bandor, and immediately went to their aid. When we arrived, Lotor and Hagar had captured them. Keith ordered him to release them; Lotor said he would do it, if I go to him. The boys were against the idea, saying that he would not keep his promise. But I couldn't let my dear cousins suffer anymore. I had to do it.
And then, the howling, freezing winds took up, and the snow began to fall heavily. And leave it to Keith to use that storm to our advantage and dream up a daring plan. I would pretend to surrender, but he would take my place halfway, covering himself with snow, while I return to Blue Lion.
Keith later said that he would never forget the expression on Lotor's face when he saw ‘the girl of his dreams.' He turned purple with rage and began cursing at Keith, who brandished a laser gun and ordered him to surrender.
There was a brief struggle, and Lotor managed to disarm Keith, thanks to Hagar's evil blue cat. Lotor was to about to kill him, when a laser beam knocked his lazon sword off his hand.
Keith turned around and saw Bandor pointing a gun at Lotor, and Romelle standing next to him. They had decided that they would take care of him. He was their enemy. He had caused a lot of harm to their father and brother, and had enslaved their people.
Keith tried to talk them out of it, saying that Lotor was dangerous, and vowed to punish him. But he quickly realized that they are as headstrong as I am.
My young cousin threw his laser gun at Keith, and ordered him to leave. He reached for his sword, saying that he would settle the score for his planet. He tried a particularly deft move, but Lotor was able to deflect the blow, throwing him to the snow. Romelle shrieked with her fury and her distress. She pulled out a dagger from her sash, and stabbed wildly at Lotor with it. He cried out and hit her with his open palm. The force was such that she dropped her weapon, and fell into his arms.
Bandor and Keith stumbled back in horror, as he bent and swung Romelle over his shoulder, and carried her back to his starship. My cousin bolted out and tried to follow them, but Keith caught him, promising that we would rescue her.
But that was almost two months ago, and we haven't heard from her, or our spies. The mere thought of Lotor hurting Romelle is frightening. Oh God… please let her get home safely. Bandor and my uncle Cova miss her so much.
I stood before the door of Allura's study, carrying her mail. I knocked on the door.
"Who is it?"
"It's me. Can I come in?"
I heard Allura clearing her throat. "Yes."
The door slid open and I stepped inside. She was standing by the window. She had her arms wrapped around her. She gazed up at me; her eyes were red, her lips slightly swollen, and her cheeks damp with tears.
I placed the basket on the desk and reached out to draw her into my arms. It was as natural a gesture as taking my next breath.
"Let's sit," I suggested. I guided her to a stack of pillows on the floor where we could lean against the couch. She looked so forlorn, so exhausted. Her hands were clutched to her lap. I covered them with one of mine and noticed they were icy. Her fingers tightened around my hand as if seeking warmth and reassurance.
"I'm so frightened," she whispered.
"You have showed great courage, equal to any of our teammates. If you're frightened now, it's only a reaction to all that's happened these past few weeks."
"I wish I could be as brave as you, Keith."
"I have fears like any man. I was so frightened when you became ill with those damned flowers that I couldn't move."
She looked at me, and tears pooled in her eyes. "Oh, Keith, I didn't know." And she rested her head on my shoulder.
"You're the most important person in my life, Ally," I whispered, brushing my mouth against her brow.
She pressed tightly against me, and I found that I was increasingly aroused by the softness of her, the fragrance of her hair, the feel of her small hand in mine.
"Do you think we'll ever see Romelle again?" she asked barely above a whisper. "I don't want to lose her, like we lost Sven."
I combed her hair with my fingers. "You won't lose her, Allura. She's going to return to Pollux soon, I promise."
She withdrew her hand to dab a tear escaping along her cheek. My heart tugged when I saw she only had managed to smear the mascara on her pale cheek. I had to do something to help her.
And then, I remembered the golden envelope. I hurried to my feet and walked across the room toward the desk. I grabbed the envelope and settled once more against the couch and draped an arm over her shoulders. She was warm now and her trembling had stopped. I would engage her in conversation and hopefully distract her from our problems.
"Who is it?"
"It's me. Can I come in?"
I heard Allura clearing her throat. "Yes."
The door slid open and I stepped inside. She was standing by the window. She had her arms wrapped around her. She gazed up at me; her eyes were red, her lips slightly swollen, and her cheeks damp with tears.
I placed the basket on the desk and reached out to draw her into my arms. It was as natural a gesture as taking my next breath.
"Let's sit," I suggested. I guided her to a stack of pillows on the floor where we could lean against the couch. She looked so forlorn, so exhausted. Her hands were clutched to her lap. I covered them with one of mine and noticed they were icy. Her fingers tightened around my hand as if seeking warmth and reassurance.
"I'm so frightened," she whispered.
"You have showed great courage, equal to any of our teammates. If you're frightened now, it's only a reaction to all that's happened these past few weeks."
"I wish I could be as brave as you, Keith."
"I have fears like any man. I was so frightened when you became ill with those damned flowers that I couldn't move."
She looked at me, and tears pooled in her eyes. "Oh, Keith, I didn't know." And she rested her head on my shoulder.
"You're the most important person in my life, Ally," I whispered, brushing my mouth against her brow.
She pressed tightly against me, and I found that I was increasingly aroused by the softness of her, the fragrance of her hair, the feel of her small hand in mine.
"Do you think we'll ever see Romelle again?" she asked barely above a whisper. "I don't want to lose her, like we lost Sven."
I combed her hair with my fingers. "You won't lose her, Allura. She's going to return to Pollux soon, I promise."
She withdrew her hand to dab a tear escaping along her cheek. My heart tugged when I saw she only had managed to smear the mascara on her pale cheek. I had to do something to help her.
And then, I remembered the golden envelope. I hurried to my feet and walked across the room toward the desk. I grabbed the envelope and settled once more against the couch and draped an arm over her shoulders. She was warm now and her trembling had stopped. I would engage her in conversation and hopefully distract her from our problems.
"This is for you."
I looked at him questioningly. "What is it?" I said, taking the envelope.
"It's a surprise."
I read the return address. "Chez Moi Propiété Inmobilière- Keith, this is a real state agency."
"That's right, continue."
I opened the envelope and began to read:
"Rue 3 Quattre-Septembre
Paris
Décembre 15, 2303
Castle of Lions
Planet Arus
Dear Commandant Harrison:
We're happy to inform you that your notaire, Monsieur Francois Deschamps has taken care of all the formalities in le Bureau de la Conservation des Hypotheques (mortgage registries) of the 16th District, for the property located in 71, Avenue Henri Martin, 75775 Paris, France.
He sent us the acte final (title deed) on the tenth of the month, from the contract that you and your parents have agreed upon its content three months ago.
Enclose please find the acte final for its signature.
Yours truly,
Madam Dominique Blanche
General Manager."
Then I looked at the official document of title. My breath stopped, because it wasn't signed to him at all. It was signed to me- the title, free and clear.
"Keith, I don't understand."
"My parents gave me this house as a graduation present, but I insisted that they let me pay for it. Before we left France to go back to the United States, we hired this real state agency to look after the property and ensure it would be kept in first class condition. When this war is over, I shall take you there."
I raised my face to his, and said, "Why Keith, why did you do it?"
"Because this house should belong to the woman I love."
I dropped the paper on the couch, and threw myself into my arms. I then pulled his face to mine and kissed him. "Thank you, my love."
He put an arm behind my back and lifted my chin with one hand. I closed my eyes to receive his kiss. He kissed one eyelid, then the other. When my lips parted in a sigh, he pressed his mouth firmly on mine.
I pushed him and he fell against the pillows. He tumbled back on them, trying to descend as quietly as possible.
Then I fell on top of him, clasping him between my thighs, my fingers tugging at the zipper of his flight suit.
"What are you doing?"
"Please, Keith," I whispered, pushing aside the fabric, until the suit slid from his shoulders. "Let me touch you."
"We can't-"
I leaned over and covered his lips, parting them with the tip of my tongue, and a shudder racked him, a shudder I felt through his frame and into mine. For a moment my desire blocked all rational thought.
Desperate, I pulled his undershirt, until it was caught beneath his arms, and then slid my fingers into the curling hair across his chest. It was ridged with muscle that tightened wherever I touched.
I rocked my bottom against him. He was hard and thick there. But I wasn't frightened. I wanted him to kiss me, to touch me. I wanted to forget our problems, forget the fear I felt for my cousin. I ached to lose myself in the sweetness of his kisses, the warmth of his strong hands moving over my body.
My head fell back as his hands roamed until his fingers teased the undersides of my breasts. I didn't want him to stop.
My fingers slid lower and he grew still, until I touched his groin and the world seemed to explode.
"Did I hurt you?" I whispered, withdrawing my hand.
"No," he cried. "I want you now. This minute… without preliminaries… without touching. I just want to get you naked and have my way with you-"
He took a huge breath.
"A-allura, I'll give you what you want, but we have to wait."
"Why?" I said breathlessly.
"B-because… because I might hurt you."
My hands smoothed themselves over his naked chest, then his belly. "You would never hurt me," I whispered, bending my head once again and kissing his chest.
He arched his back. "Lord, help me," he gasped.
He reached for my shoulders and raised me back up, so he might kiss me. Our arms wrapped tightly about each other and our mouths fused in a hot, lingering kiss.
He pulled away and inhaled deeply. "T-this situation can't continue. We must tell everyone about us."
"Are you sure?" I whispered.
"Of course I'm sure. You're the only woman I will ever love, and I won't let anyone take you away from me."
I gave me a warm, sweet smile. "Are you aware that our lives will be changed forever, that everyone's eyes will be upon us?"
He chuckled. "Yes! Are you willing to take that risk with me?"
"Yes. I am yours and you are mine. Nothing will ever change that."
Turning his head up, he gave me a light kiss. "Nothing," he concluded.
I looked at him questioningly. "What is it?" I said, taking the envelope.
"It's a surprise."
I read the return address. "Chez Moi Propiété Inmobilière- Keith, this is a real state agency."
"That's right, continue."
I opened the envelope and began to read:
"Rue 3 Quattre-Septembre
Paris
Décembre 15, 2303
Castle of Lions
Planet Arus
Dear Commandant Harrison:
We're happy to inform you that your notaire, Monsieur Francois Deschamps has taken care of all the formalities in le Bureau de la Conservation des Hypotheques (mortgage registries) of the 16th District, for the property located in 71, Avenue Henri Martin, 75775 Paris, France.
He sent us the acte final (title deed) on the tenth of the month, from the contract that you and your parents have agreed upon its content three months ago.
Enclose please find the acte final for its signature.
Yours truly,
Madam Dominique Blanche
General Manager."
Then I looked at the official document of title. My breath stopped, because it wasn't signed to him at all. It was signed to me- the title, free and clear.
"Keith, I don't understand."
"My parents gave me this house as a graduation present, but I insisted that they let me pay for it. Before we left France to go back to the United States, we hired this real state agency to look after the property and ensure it would be kept in first class condition. When this war is over, I shall take you there."
I raised my face to his, and said, "Why Keith, why did you do it?"
"Because this house should belong to the woman I love."
I dropped the paper on the couch, and threw myself into my arms. I then pulled his face to mine and kissed him. "Thank you, my love."
He put an arm behind my back and lifted my chin with one hand. I closed my eyes to receive his kiss. He kissed one eyelid, then the other. When my lips parted in a sigh, he pressed his mouth firmly on mine.
I pushed him and he fell against the pillows. He tumbled back on them, trying to descend as quietly as possible.
Then I fell on top of him, clasping him between my thighs, my fingers tugging at the zipper of his flight suit.
"What are you doing?"
"Please, Keith," I whispered, pushing aside the fabric, until the suit slid from his shoulders. "Let me touch you."
"We can't-"
I leaned over and covered his lips, parting them with the tip of my tongue, and a shudder racked him, a shudder I felt through his frame and into mine. For a moment my desire blocked all rational thought.
Desperate, I pulled his undershirt, until it was caught beneath his arms, and then slid my fingers into the curling hair across his chest. It was ridged with muscle that tightened wherever I touched.
I rocked my bottom against him. He was hard and thick there. But I wasn't frightened. I wanted him to kiss me, to touch me. I wanted to forget our problems, forget the fear I felt for my cousin. I ached to lose myself in the sweetness of his kisses, the warmth of his strong hands moving over my body.
My head fell back as his hands roamed until his fingers teased the undersides of my breasts. I didn't want him to stop.
My fingers slid lower and he grew still, until I touched his groin and the world seemed to explode.
"Did I hurt you?" I whispered, withdrawing my hand.
"No," he cried. "I want you now. This minute… without preliminaries… without touching. I just want to get you naked and have my way with you-"
He took a huge breath.
"A-allura, I'll give you what you want, but we have to wait."
"Why?" I said breathlessly.
"B-because… because I might hurt you."
My hands smoothed themselves over his naked chest, then his belly. "You would never hurt me," I whispered, bending my head once again and kissing his chest.
He arched his back. "Lord, help me," he gasped.
He reached for my shoulders and raised me back up, so he might kiss me. Our arms wrapped tightly about each other and our mouths fused in a hot, lingering kiss.
He pulled away and inhaled deeply. "T-this situation can't continue. We must tell everyone about us."
"Are you sure?" I whispered.
"Of course I'm sure. You're the only woman I will ever love, and I won't let anyone take you away from me."
I gave me a warm, sweet smile. "Are you aware that our lives will be changed forever, that everyone's eyes will be upon us?"
He chuckled. "Yes! Are you willing to take that risk with me?"
"Yes. I am yours and you are mine. Nothing will ever change that."
Turning his head up, he gave me a light kiss. "Nothing," he concluded.
We walked to the hall and stood there for a moment. "Are you ready?" I asked.
"Yes, it is past time we announced that we're in love," she replied with a smile. She reached up and stroked my cheek with her fingers.
"I agree," I said, catching her hand and kissing the palm. I clasped her fingers and stayed them over my heart, which was thumping with anticipation. "Let's go to the control room then." I released her, but not before kissing the palm once again.
When we got there, Pidge was sitting in the console, while Coran and the rest of the team stood behind him. Lance glanced back, and motioned us to come closer. "We're picking up an Ultra Low Frequency Signal," he said.
Pidge quickly vacated the chair for Allura. "What does it mean? This frequency?" she asked.
"It's a primitive pulse technology, Princess," he replied. "It's very slow, but it carries over extreme distances. The Drules have been using ULF during the war."
"So why would the Drules-" she caught herself. "Do you have the signal source?"
"It appears to be coming from quadrant thirteen."
I felt a chill running across my neck. "Thirteen. That puts it near Planet Doom," I said. "Translate it."
Pidge did as he was told, and seconds later we heard, "Allura- warn the Voltron Force. Zarkon is sending the Omega Comet toward you. You must save planet Arus!"
"Romelle!" she exclaimed. "She's trying to warn us. Romelle, where are you?"
"I sneaked into the transmitter room- oh no, they are coming for me! Voltron must save planet Arus from the Omega Comet! Ah-"
"Romelle!" Allura cried helplessly.
I placed my hand over her shoulder. "I'm sorry, I know you miss her very much."
Allura glanced back, her blue eyes glazing with tears.
I gently squeezed her shoulder, hoping to give her some of my strength. We'll just have to wait a bit more to reveal our secret, I thought sadly. Romelle and Arus needed our help.
Then looking up, I said, "She risked her life to warn us. We must be in grave danger."
Coran's face grew rigid, and his tone plunged to warning depths. "The gravest we had ever faced, for the Omega Comet is the deadliest of all weapons, it could destroy buildings and pull them out into the sky. Bridges, mountains, and every human on Arus will be sucked up into a vortex of doom."
Everyone was watching at him, their faces turned in mingled confusion, amazement and horror.
"Voltron faced this menace once before, he won only when he discovered a highly secretive attack plan."
"But Coran, you have a record of the plan, haven't you?" I asked hopefully.
He hid his gaze. "No," he replied somberly. "It was lost the first time it was devised."
"What?!" Lance cried.
"Oh no!" Hunk exclaimed.
"No, it can't be," Pidge gasped.
Pursing my lips, I contemplated the pros and cons of a first strike. "We'll just have to discover the secret attack plan ourselves, and the sooner we get started, the better. Remember, we're not exactly amateurs, we are the Voltron Force!"
Then glancing back, I said, "What do you say, team?"
Lance stepped forward. "I say we stop talking and start doing!"
"You can count me in!" Hunk added.
"Me too, let's go!" Pidge cried.
Coran shook his head in defeat. "I'm afraid it would do no good. We must prepare for the end. You could start by telling those people right here in the castle."
"No, Coran, you're too negative," Allura said, stepping between us. "We'll find the secret attack plan again. Voltron found it before, didn't he?"
"It took ten years."
"We'll just have to work quicker," I said, my self-confidence revving higher. "Let's go, team!"
And we rushed into the chutes that would takes us to our Lions, while Coran promised to keep vigil over the screens.
The End.
02/04/2002
Revised 03/07/2015
"Yes, it is past time we announced that we're in love," she replied with a smile. She reached up and stroked my cheek with her fingers.
"I agree," I said, catching her hand and kissing the palm. I clasped her fingers and stayed them over my heart, which was thumping with anticipation. "Let's go to the control room then." I released her, but not before kissing the palm once again.
When we got there, Pidge was sitting in the console, while Coran and the rest of the team stood behind him. Lance glanced back, and motioned us to come closer. "We're picking up an Ultra Low Frequency Signal," he said.
Pidge quickly vacated the chair for Allura. "What does it mean? This frequency?" she asked.
"It's a primitive pulse technology, Princess," he replied. "It's very slow, but it carries over extreme distances. The Drules have been using ULF during the war."
"So why would the Drules-" she caught herself. "Do you have the signal source?"
"It appears to be coming from quadrant thirteen."
I felt a chill running across my neck. "Thirteen. That puts it near Planet Doom," I said. "Translate it."
Pidge did as he was told, and seconds later we heard, "Allura- warn the Voltron Force. Zarkon is sending the Omega Comet toward you. You must save planet Arus!"
"Romelle!" she exclaimed. "She's trying to warn us. Romelle, where are you?"
"I sneaked into the transmitter room- oh no, they are coming for me! Voltron must save planet Arus from the Omega Comet! Ah-"
"Romelle!" Allura cried helplessly.
I placed my hand over her shoulder. "I'm sorry, I know you miss her very much."
Allura glanced back, her blue eyes glazing with tears.
I gently squeezed her shoulder, hoping to give her some of my strength. We'll just have to wait a bit more to reveal our secret, I thought sadly. Romelle and Arus needed our help.
Then looking up, I said, "She risked her life to warn us. We must be in grave danger."
Coran's face grew rigid, and his tone plunged to warning depths. "The gravest we had ever faced, for the Omega Comet is the deadliest of all weapons, it could destroy buildings and pull them out into the sky. Bridges, mountains, and every human on Arus will be sucked up into a vortex of doom."
Everyone was watching at him, their faces turned in mingled confusion, amazement and horror.
"Voltron faced this menace once before, he won only when he discovered a highly secretive attack plan."
"But Coran, you have a record of the plan, haven't you?" I asked hopefully.
He hid his gaze. "No," he replied somberly. "It was lost the first time it was devised."
"What?!" Lance cried.
"Oh no!" Hunk exclaimed.
"No, it can't be," Pidge gasped.
Pursing my lips, I contemplated the pros and cons of a first strike. "We'll just have to discover the secret attack plan ourselves, and the sooner we get started, the better. Remember, we're not exactly amateurs, we are the Voltron Force!"
Then glancing back, I said, "What do you say, team?"
Lance stepped forward. "I say we stop talking and start doing!"
"You can count me in!" Hunk added.
"Me too, let's go!" Pidge cried.
Coran shook his head in defeat. "I'm afraid it would do no good. We must prepare for the end. You could start by telling those people right here in the castle."
"No, Coran, you're too negative," Allura said, stepping between us. "We'll find the secret attack plan again. Voltron found it before, didn't he?"
"It took ten years."
"We'll just have to work quicker," I said, my self-confidence revving higher. "Let's go, team!"
And we rushed into the chutes that would takes us to our Lions, while Coran promised to keep vigil over the screens.
The End.
02/04/2002
Revised 03/07/2015
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