Bonds of Love
By KittyLynne
Disclaimers: Voltron and all associated characters are owned and copyrighted by WEP. Original/new characters belong to the author.
Rating: M for language and adult situations.
Author's summary and warnings: This is an updated version of my very first fanfiction effort, a story I wrote and posted several years ago on the KAEX mailing list. It revolves around developing the relationship between Keith and Princess Allura, and exploring the origin of the psychic connection between them, their teammates, and the lions that make up Voltron. This fanfiction was written and posted before the existence of Voltron: The Third Dimension, and does not tie in with that series in regards to plot or characterizations.
Disclaimer: Voltron and its characters are the property of World Events Productions. I am not writing this story for profit. The original characters, prose and plots created for this fiction are my creative property and should not be reproduced in any form without my written permission.
Originally Published 1999-2001 - Revised 2014 - 2017
Rating: M for language and adult situations.
Author's summary and warnings: This is an updated version of my very first fanfiction effort, a story I wrote and posted several years ago on the KAEX mailing list. It revolves around developing the relationship between Keith and Princess Allura, and exploring the origin of the psychic connection between them, their teammates, and the lions that make up Voltron. This fanfiction was written and posted before the existence of Voltron: The Third Dimension, and does not tie in with that series in regards to plot or characterizations.
Disclaimer: Voltron and its characters are the property of World Events Productions. I am not writing this story for profit. The original characters, prose and plots created for this fiction are my creative property and should not be reproduced in any form without my written permission.
Originally Published 1999-2001 - Revised 2014 - 2017
Click on the following links to move along to that chapter.
Connections
The Carlac's living room was the chosen place where Keith and Allura would regale their hosts with the story of their jungle adventure. After everyone was comfortably seated, Keith began, prefacing his remarks by saying 'this is going to be a doozie, you can't make this stuff up'. The Governor and his wife chuckled as they settled back in their recliner chairs, prepared to take in everything their guests had to tell them.
And it was a tale that held all of the elements that would translate straight into a novel; conflict, adventure, romance and a liberal splash of the paranormal. Minutes later, as Allura described her discovery and showed the long lost tome, Varten found himself seated on the edge of his chair, hands tightly clasped and eyes brimming with intense emotion. It had been so long ago, but hearing the daughter of Queen Alana reading from her mother's journal brought flashbacks as vivid as if it all had happened yesterday. Pride and sorrow, anticipation and worry, hopefulness and guilt; but he controlled all feelings with ease born in years of practice. He couldn't allow himself to be distracted by sentiment or he'd lose focus on the task at hand.
Keith and Allura had been tested by the lions, and had proven themselves with flying colors. The lingering euphoria of their newfound bonds was written in every movement, every touch, every look between them. It was the same euphoria that he and Sarita had experienced when they had first met as members of Alfor's court. Added to that, that it was heady stuff to be in the throes of first love posed a substantial challenge for what lay ahead. It wouldn't be all moonlight and roses...romance was glorious, but building a relationship required a strong constitution and a hell of a lot of work. Growing old and being happy together was the ultimate prize. Only time would tell if they were up to the task. Should they need it, at least he'd be able to give them some help through insights gleaned from hard experience.
Varten focused his attention solely on Keith, who was finishing his summary of the quest. "You know, Allura has always felt a strong link between us and the lion ships. There were times where I wondered about some of the things we were able to do, and if piloting the lions and forming Voltron is far more than moving the sum of their parts. The entries in the Queen's journal would seem to confirm it. Can you help us understand specifically what that connection is, and if using this knowledge could help us defeat Zarkon once and for all?"
Allura spoke. "But before we get into that, there's something I'd really like to ask Sarita first, if you don't mind."
Keith smiled at her. "Of course I don't. That's top priority."
Before the Princess could say another word, Sarita leaned forward from her chair, eagerly holding her hands out to Allura. "We are related by blood, Princess. Cousins, to be exact, as your mother was the daughter of my father's sister."
"I knew it!" Allura exclaimed, grasping Sarita's hands. "I'm so happy! After all this time, I've found a kind and wonderful cousin..." she paused for a moment, her smile fading a bit as their hands parted, "...but if you already knew of our connection, why didn't you tell me right away?"
Sarita's eyes grew misty and her voice quivered with emotion. "I meant no deliberate deception, Allura. Once I saw what was transpiring, telling you could have tainted your quest."
"I understand." Allura said somberly.
"You see, my family-our family- is directly descended from the clan of the first Lion Warriors. But even so, the bonding...it isn't something that simply gets handed down like the throne or any other inheritance. It absolutely has to be free and unbiased choice for you and for the lion who serves. You were chosen by Blue, and we were afraid that knowing our joint family history could have unduly influenced your decision. Acceptance of the lion bond had to come from your heart, not from any perceived obligation to family honor."
Sarita sighed. "Though I knew it was the right thing to do, it was so very difficult to hold my tongue. It's a sin of omission for which I beg your forgiveness."
Allura shook her head. "It wasn't a sin. There's nothing to forgive."
She rose and Sarita met her half way. As they embraced, their male companions looked on in smiling silence.
The two women were wiping their eyes as they sat down again. Varten produced a handkerchief for his wife, who took it with a little laugh. Old fashioned? Yes, but a caring gesture, and Keith made a silent resolution to find and start carrying one, after seeing Allura brushing tears away with her fingers.
When she had sufficiently composed herself, Sarita turned her attention to Keith.
"There is more to this story, Captain, which ties into your question. King Alfor also is connected to the lion warrior clan through his lineage. He is a descendant of Queen Arielle.
Perhaps you've heard of her?"
Keith nodded. "She was the first to be crowned Queen of Arus, right?"
"Correct. But her beginnings were humble. She was a foundling, who turned out to be a person of noble birth from a neighboring province. In those days, the planet was not unified, and many factions were at odds as they sought power. Due to a threat against her family, Arielle was taken to Althene as a baby, where she was adopted by our people and raised by the Lion Protectors themselves to be a wise and powerful force for good. She rose in ranks as a warrior, and when a common threat to all peoples of the planet was made known, she succeeded in making peace with and unifying those who had previously sought to eliminate her. This led to her accepting the mantle of Queen of Arus by popular acclaim. As her descendant, your father is as entwined with lion warrior ancestry by history and deed as your mother is by bloodline."
"But we're related because he married into the clan." Allura stated.
"Yes. When they met and fell in love, his marriage to your mother completed the circle of unification, and provided him with inspiration for resurrecting the lion protectors."
"Resurrection?" Allura echoed.
Sarita looked at her husband, and Varten took up the narrative. "Arielle had just been declared a crown princess by a council of elders representing all provinces when a grave external threat to Arus emerged, one fueled by the ambitions of a powerful sorceress. Arusians were no strangers to light magic, but this kind was darker and more dangerous than anything in the Universe. The Guardian Lions had foreseen the threat, and had determined the corporeal sacrifice that would have to take place to protect the people entrusted to their care."
Keith frowned. "A sacrifice?"
Varten nodded. "As beings of the light, with powerful magic of their own, word of their unique powers had spread and attracted the attention of evil that sought to claim the sources of that power for their own evil uses. To avoid attempts to ensnare them, the Lions sought to shed their physical forms by splitting and merging their powers with five human who would be conduits for that power, willing to use it for the good of all, and take on the roles of defenders of Planet Arus. Arielle became the first of five lion warriors to accept a lion spirit, and was the first recipient of an amulet, the medium that would symbolize the spiritual link between lions and their chosen ones."
"The five were chosen and became guardians of our planet." Sarita added. "Before the lion ships were ever built, the lions were bonded with these chosen humans, a bond of love that made it possible for Arus to endure. From then on, whenever the chosen joined their hearts and minds together, their lion given powers formed a force for ultimate good."
Keith's mouth fell open. "Are you saying...the first Lion Defenders of Arus were totally organic?"
"Indeed they were." Varten replied. "At that time, civil strife was the biggest danger to our world. Through selfless acts and unwavering commitment to the well being of all, the Lion Force fought with compassion and brought peace to the masses. Warring factions at last came to terms that everyone could live with. Arielle, the beloved adopted daughter of the Lion Clan, was a warrior of great renown, and had earned respect of the people. As Sarita mentioned, she was crowned Queen of Arus by acclaim. Subsequently, she took a consort, Prince Jordan, the chosen bearer of the Red Lion amulet and in due course, she gave birth to twin sons whose legacies took a fateful turn..." he paused to nod at Allura, "...which is a story I believe is already familiar to you."
"One son loved and served the people of Arus, the other wanted to use the lion powers for personal gain. After refusing to share the throne with his brother, he departed Arus to seek glory and riches on another world." Allura recited earnestly. "He became ruler of Pollux, our sister planet."
"That's right." Sarita confirmed. "From then on, and up until just recently, the threat was present that Pollux would launch an attack against Arus. But because the warriors continued to preserve the lions and serve the people, Arus remained safe."
"How was it that the ships became the means to defend Arus?" Keith asked.
"By unfortunate necessity. Using the supernatural came at the cost of draining their physical being, and their life forces, more quickly each time the power of lions was called upon. As the original warriors reached the end of their endurance, the spirits were passed to others who were chosen. Finally, as a new generation took up the mantle, a sustained evil appeared that necessitated a new kind of defense that could do battle without tiring, one which harnessed the spirits to fight without physically draining the chosen ones."
"The lion ships have organic matter within them! I could feel it!" Allura exclaimed.
Wearing pleased smiles, the Carlacs nodded in tandem.
The Carlac's living room was the chosen place where Keith and Allura would regale their hosts with the story of their jungle adventure. After everyone was comfortably seated, Keith began, prefacing his remarks by saying 'this is going to be a doozie, you can't make this stuff up'. The Governor and his wife chuckled as they settled back in their recliner chairs, prepared to take in everything their guests had to tell them.
And it was a tale that held all of the elements that would translate straight into a novel; conflict, adventure, romance and a liberal splash of the paranormal. Minutes later, as Allura described her discovery and showed the long lost tome, Varten found himself seated on the edge of his chair, hands tightly clasped and eyes brimming with intense emotion. It had been so long ago, but hearing the daughter of Queen Alana reading from her mother's journal brought flashbacks as vivid as if it all had happened yesterday. Pride and sorrow, anticipation and worry, hopefulness and guilt; but he controlled all feelings with ease born in years of practice. He couldn't allow himself to be distracted by sentiment or he'd lose focus on the task at hand.
Keith and Allura had been tested by the lions, and had proven themselves with flying colors. The lingering euphoria of their newfound bonds was written in every movement, every touch, every look between them. It was the same euphoria that he and Sarita had experienced when they had first met as members of Alfor's court. Added to that, that it was heady stuff to be in the throes of first love posed a substantial challenge for what lay ahead. It wouldn't be all moonlight and roses...romance was glorious, but building a relationship required a strong constitution and a hell of a lot of work. Growing old and being happy together was the ultimate prize. Only time would tell if they were up to the task. Should they need it, at least he'd be able to give them some help through insights gleaned from hard experience.
Varten focused his attention solely on Keith, who was finishing his summary of the quest. "You know, Allura has always felt a strong link between us and the lion ships. There were times where I wondered about some of the things we were able to do, and if piloting the lions and forming Voltron is far more than moving the sum of their parts. The entries in the Queen's journal would seem to confirm it. Can you help us understand specifically what that connection is, and if using this knowledge could help us defeat Zarkon once and for all?"
Allura spoke. "But before we get into that, there's something I'd really like to ask Sarita first, if you don't mind."
Keith smiled at her. "Of course I don't. That's top priority."
Before the Princess could say another word, Sarita leaned forward from her chair, eagerly holding her hands out to Allura. "We are related by blood, Princess. Cousins, to be exact, as your mother was the daughter of my father's sister."
"I knew it!" Allura exclaimed, grasping Sarita's hands. "I'm so happy! After all this time, I've found a kind and wonderful cousin..." she paused for a moment, her smile fading a bit as their hands parted, "...but if you already knew of our connection, why didn't you tell me right away?"
Sarita's eyes grew misty and her voice quivered with emotion. "I meant no deliberate deception, Allura. Once I saw what was transpiring, telling you could have tainted your quest."
"I understand." Allura said somberly.
"You see, my family-our family- is directly descended from the clan of the first Lion Warriors. But even so, the bonding...it isn't something that simply gets handed down like the throne or any other inheritance. It absolutely has to be free and unbiased choice for you and for the lion who serves. You were chosen by Blue, and we were afraid that knowing our joint family history could have unduly influenced your decision. Acceptance of the lion bond had to come from your heart, not from any perceived obligation to family honor."
Sarita sighed. "Though I knew it was the right thing to do, it was so very difficult to hold my tongue. It's a sin of omission for which I beg your forgiveness."
Allura shook her head. "It wasn't a sin. There's nothing to forgive."
She rose and Sarita met her half way. As they embraced, their male companions looked on in smiling silence.
The two women were wiping their eyes as they sat down again. Varten produced a handkerchief for his wife, who took it with a little laugh. Old fashioned? Yes, but a caring gesture, and Keith made a silent resolution to find and start carrying one, after seeing Allura brushing tears away with her fingers.
When she had sufficiently composed herself, Sarita turned her attention to Keith.
"There is more to this story, Captain, which ties into your question. King Alfor also is connected to the lion warrior clan through his lineage. He is a descendant of Queen Arielle.
Perhaps you've heard of her?"
Keith nodded. "She was the first to be crowned Queen of Arus, right?"
"Correct. But her beginnings were humble. She was a foundling, who turned out to be a person of noble birth from a neighboring province. In those days, the planet was not unified, and many factions were at odds as they sought power. Due to a threat against her family, Arielle was taken to Althene as a baby, where she was adopted by our people and raised by the Lion Protectors themselves to be a wise and powerful force for good. She rose in ranks as a warrior, and when a common threat to all peoples of the planet was made known, she succeeded in making peace with and unifying those who had previously sought to eliminate her. This led to her accepting the mantle of Queen of Arus by popular acclaim. As her descendant, your father is as entwined with lion warrior ancestry by history and deed as your mother is by bloodline."
"But we're related because he married into the clan." Allura stated.
"Yes. When they met and fell in love, his marriage to your mother completed the circle of unification, and provided him with inspiration for resurrecting the lion protectors."
"Resurrection?" Allura echoed.
Sarita looked at her husband, and Varten took up the narrative. "Arielle had just been declared a crown princess by a council of elders representing all provinces when a grave external threat to Arus emerged, one fueled by the ambitions of a powerful sorceress. Arusians were no strangers to light magic, but this kind was darker and more dangerous than anything in the Universe. The Guardian Lions had foreseen the threat, and had determined the corporeal sacrifice that would have to take place to protect the people entrusted to their care."
Keith frowned. "A sacrifice?"
Varten nodded. "As beings of the light, with powerful magic of their own, word of their unique powers had spread and attracted the attention of evil that sought to claim the sources of that power for their own evil uses. To avoid attempts to ensnare them, the Lions sought to shed their physical forms by splitting and merging their powers with five human who would be conduits for that power, willing to use it for the good of all, and take on the roles of defenders of Planet Arus. Arielle became the first of five lion warriors to accept a lion spirit, and was the first recipient of an amulet, the medium that would symbolize the spiritual link between lions and their chosen ones."
"The five were chosen and became guardians of our planet." Sarita added. "Before the lion ships were ever built, the lions were bonded with these chosen humans, a bond of love that made it possible for Arus to endure. From then on, whenever the chosen joined their hearts and minds together, their lion given powers formed a force for ultimate good."
Keith's mouth fell open. "Are you saying...the first Lion Defenders of Arus were totally organic?"
"Indeed they were." Varten replied. "At that time, civil strife was the biggest danger to our world. Through selfless acts and unwavering commitment to the well being of all, the Lion Force fought with compassion and brought peace to the masses. Warring factions at last came to terms that everyone could live with. Arielle, the beloved adopted daughter of the Lion Clan, was a warrior of great renown, and had earned respect of the people. As Sarita mentioned, she was crowned Queen of Arus by acclaim. Subsequently, she took a consort, Prince Jordan, the chosen bearer of the Red Lion amulet and in due course, she gave birth to twin sons whose legacies took a fateful turn..." he paused to nod at Allura, "...which is a story I believe is already familiar to you."
"One son loved and served the people of Arus, the other wanted to use the lion powers for personal gain. After refusing to share the throne with his brother, he departed Arus to seek glory and riches on another world." Allura recited earnestly. "He became ruler of Pollux, our sister planet."
"That's right." Sarita confirmed. "From then on, and up until just recently, the threat was present that Pollux would launch an attack against Arus. But because the warriors continued to preserve the lions and serve the people, Arus remained safe."
"How was it that the ships became the means to defend Arus?" Keith asked.
"By unfortunate necessity. Using the supernatural came at the cost of draining their physical being, and their life forces, more quickly each time the power of lions was called upon. As the original warriors reached the end of their endurance, the spirits were passed to others who were chosen. Finally, as a new generation took up the mantle, a sustained evil appeared that necessitated a new kind of defense that could do battle without tiring, one which harnessed the spirits to fight without physically draining the chosen ones."
"The lion ships have organic matter within them! I could feel it!" Allura exclaimed.
Wearing pleased smiles, the Carlacs nodded in tandem.
Keith sat back, his mind racing as he assimilated the astounding information he'd just been given. Paramount of the questions he had was in regards to flying with Black Lion.
He'd describe himself as a hard nosed skeptic whose lion ship was run by a compilation of skill blended with amazing technology. He'd humored Allura's assertion of being 'one with my lion' but privately scoffed at it. He'd never thought of magic as real until Sven had run afoul of Witch Hagar and he was forced to acknowledge its existence. He had tended to think of King Alfor's ghostly appearances as scientific triggers of prerecorded holograms until he'd seen him in person.
He wasn't a traditional lion warrior. He was a pilot from Planet Earth who had gotten himself sent to a distant planet for the chance of finding Voltron and flying a cool lion ship that had been branded as the ultimate weapon for use against enemies of Galaxy Garrison. To that end, he'd gotten himself into a war, and found a new calling as a protector, even as he'd constantly been reminded he was an outsider who needed to earn the people's trust.
And he'd done that. This planet had become a home, the people, his people. He'd seen many things that could only be described as magic. And from the first, Black Lion had been the one that called to him when they'd crashed. He'd thought it an automatic signal triggered by shock waves...but now...
Why had Black chosen him? Was it because he was a good pilot? Was he an infusion of new blood for the clan? Why?
He hadn't spoken any of his thoughts aloud, but Varten now spoke to him as if he had, which wasn't a surprise. Keith wryly and privately acknowledged he had accepted the existence of a link with the other man as much as the one with Black Lion.
"Thinking the bonding is merely a way for us to strengthen the original bloodline of the clan is erroneous." The Governor professed. "I can't paint a tidy and perfect picture of why you were chosen, and neither will I hide the fact that the origin of those chosen is an issue with a very small group among our clan who harbor resentment over what they as 'harmful outside influences'.
"These few have not been chosen because their understanding of what the bond represents is based on snobbery and selfish gain. The lion protectors are able to stay with us as long as their spirits are sustained by true nobility, an unwavering faith in the cause of good, and the unselfish acts of free will by those they have chosen. You are chosen because your strength of will and goodness makes you worthy of Black Lion, Keith. That was clear when I gave you the amulet and it sparked. The subsequent vision confirmed that you were favored."
"He's also highly favored by Blue." Sarita said, with a smile directed at Keith. "You wouldn't have been able to see her that night otherwise."
"And Black Lion favors the Princess." Keith said, with a sideways glance at Allura. "From what you're saying, I, uh, guess that had to happen for them to do what they, uh, did."
"That is correct. And so they spoke to you both, and requested your help, did they not?" Varten asked, and the young people nodded. "You granted their request, and that makes the two of you as much our family and a part of the lion clan as those who were born in this village."
Allura couldn't begin to sort out the multitude of feelings she was experiencing when Keith reached for her hand. Sudden shyness was definitely one of them, though, and she didn't quite meet his gaze as they interlocked fingers. Public display of affection from him, though the stuff of her dreams, was taking some getting used to, and several years of etiquette lessons weighed on her mind, even as she ignored them.
Anyway, right now there were important matters to focus on. Instead of thinking about how awesome it was to be holding Keith's hand, she blurted out a question.
"You were the bearer of the Black Lion amulet, Varten. Does being chosen run in your family?"
The older man shook his head. "It's not been like that. Though I'm descended from the first amulet bearer of Black Lion, the amulet has been with other families besides mine before I had it. Somehow it found its way back to me, and that's why I became the first pilot of Black Lion in the form you know him today." At Keith and Allura's exclamations of astonishment, he chuckled sheepishly.
"In my younger years, before the bonding, I was a pilot of some repute, and I trained many others to fly after I joined the Royal military. I rose through the ranks, and the King appointed me Commander of the Arusian Armed Forces. I was chosen by Black, and soon after, the giant robot Voltron was created. Alfor did me the great honor of asking me to fly the Black Lion ship. Being the amulet holder, and with my skills as an experienced pilot, it was a good fit."
"What did you do for the court, Sarita?" Keith asked.
"I was enlisted in the air force. Varten was my flight instructor, which is how we got to know each other." Sarita told him. "Though I wasn't selected to be a pilot on the original team, I worked in intelligence, often alongside Alfor, who commanded his army in person, but was also a strategist intent on minimizing casualties of those he commanded. It was when Alana ended up being the chosen of Blue Lion that he was spurred to his greatest achievements." She smiled at the Princess, who was clearly moved by this news. "Yes, you and your mother share a bond with Blue."
"That's amazing." Keith breathed.
"And it explains why we both loved the water." Allura joked, a bit shakily.
Sarita smiled, then turned. "During this time, the scourge known as Zarkon grew ever more powerful. We had the prophecy of the lions to guide us, and with the creation of Voltron, it soon became obvious Alana was a catalyst for the bonding of the five. Alfor had realized a way to do what needed to be done to keep the warriors intact physically and to increase their durability; he and his scientist worked nonstop to build a means for defense in space combat, one more powerful than had ever been seen before. The King's thought was that the spirits of the lion guardians could be partially tethered to advanced technology and weaponry, which would allow for greater stamina and control for the pilots. And so it was done; the vessels you call the lion ships are essentially shields for the true power of Voltron."
"That must have been an exciting time." Allura murmured.
"It was, but also very difficult. Alana learned to pilot the Blue Lion craft in its development. Alfor was not happy about your mother flying into battles, and so I was trained as a substitute for Blue. I took over after she became pregnant with you, Allura, but as someone who hadn't been chosen, I wasn't able to channel my lion's power with the others when it counted most. I was slated to be on that final mission, but before I could deploy, the Queen had taken the lion and gone where they needed her. She did what she did to protect you, her beloved child. She wasn't about to back down!" Sarita's voice was choked. "But oh...my dearest Allura...this isn't the time or how I should be telling you about your mother. I've given you no preparation, no warning..."
Allura's hand dropped from covering her mouth to her lap. Though she was pale, her voice was strong, her face serene. "This was the perfect time and place, and I'm glad you have told me. You are the first to give me answers instead of platitudes and half truths!" She looked from Sarita to Varten and back again. "Father never told me exactly what happened, only that she perished at the hands of Zarkon and the evil witch. I never got to ask him, because he marched away to the Valley of Zohar..." she compressed her lips, swallowed, and raised her chin to a defiant angle, clearly trying to rein in emotions, "both my parents died protecting all that they loved, and made the ultimate sacrifice for their people. I won't dishonor their memories by wishing it weren't so."
"To understand their sacrifice requires a noble heart full of love." Sarita said gently. "But it is not selfish to mourn a loss of loved ones. It's proof that they loved and were loved. It's human to the core."
"I am the only survivor of that split." Varten stated abruptly, his features furrowed by anguish. "I was ejected from Black Lion before he crashed onto a grassy knoll. I suffered numerous injuries, but I was alive. For reasons then unknown to me, I had been spared. " He bowed his head. "All I could think of is that my team had perished. I thought it would have been better of I died too."
"No!" Allura exclaimed tearfully. "You're dear to your people, and you've become dear to me. I am so thankful and happy that you're here! I am the better for it!"
Varten looked up and into the Princess' eyes in a wordless but profound exchange, before murmuring, "I thank you, my dear. You are truly your mother's daughter."
Her face grew pink with pleasure. "If it isn't too painful, I would like to hear what happened to you after Voltron was broken up." She said gently.
The Governor took a moment to compose himself, then took up the tale once more. "As I lay drifting in the haze between life and death, my comrades, flanked by their respective lions, appeared to me, assuring me that they needed to leave me for awhile, but when the time was right, the lions would return, and Voltron would rise again."
"Knowing that the spirit bonds endured after death helped me come to terms with the loss of my comrades. They were in a good place, a safe place, and I was certain I'd see them again. But now, it fell to me to be there for the living. I hung on to consciousness, sending a distress call until help arrived. I passed out as I was being lifted, and six days later woke in the Castle, much improved, only to learn of the death of Alfor and the castle bearing severe damage from our enemies. A devastating blow, but mourning for our beloved rulers and comrades had to be set aside."
Sarita took up the tale. "Despite his severe wounds, he was determined to board a shuttle for Althene, gather survivors and lead them to safety in the caves not far from here. As a logistics specialist, I went with him. The casualties were terrible, so many perished that terrible day. All because of Hagar." She spat the name as she would an expletive, as her eyes tenderly surveyed her husband. "We were welcomed, but there were those who became bitter as the days of strife became weeks, and then months, feeling that the Guardians had abandoned as. As leader, my husband took full responsibility for the defeat of Voltron, and urged those who wanted to blame the lions to blame him instead."
Allura was aghast. "You're not to blame for the evil that visited this world! It was the first Arus had seen of Hagar, was it not? Who would think she had the power of hiding ugliness and evil within beauty and light? She's a powerful illusionist who has perfected her craft, she's incredibly cunning, and she has fooled countless people!"
"It was my fault." Varten stated stonily. "It was my responsibility to question what seemed too good to be true, to see through to the evil heart lurking beneath the magical disguise before it was too late. Instead I fell prey to the trickery of a false goddess, and unquestioningly led us right into her trap."
"You might have been the first to be fooled, but you weren't the last!" Keith asserted. "Heck, that old witch fooled us with her disguises even when we knew she had the capability of doing so! Deception is the strongest part of her magic. Honest people are her targets because we look for the good. The shame is hers, not yours!"
"Your compassionate words are balm to my spirit. Thank you." Varten's smile was less strained. "Coming to terms with my mistake is work that is still in progress, though time has somewhat softened the blow. Returning to Althene has helped heal some of the wounds. Though I had failed, my people still saw me as a hero and made me leader of the clan. I consented to Coran's offer and have been privileged to serve in an official capacity as Governor of this region."
Sarita spoke up. "We'd hoped to start a family along the way. But having children wasn't something that was in our future; it has been a source of sorrow for us both, but now I feel the joy and pride of a mother."
A smile smoothed the lines of Varten's face, made him look years younger. "It's a glorious day." He said warmly. "All has been made clear. Our purpose is to help you find your places within the universe. We are family, and you are our heirs."
Allura had teared up again, and was having trouble forming words. Keith spoke, giving her time to collect herself. "We will do our best to make you proud, sir."
"You already have!" The older man exclaimed. "Ah, I see you shaking your head! I don't wish to pry, but the lion bond can be both exhilarating and disconcerting at first. If there's anything I can help with?"
Keith rubbed the back of his head. He wasn't normally one to talk about his feelings, but this wasn't anything close to a normal occasion. "It is pretty overwhelming when I let myself think about it. I feel lots of things. Excited. Proud. And a little freaked out."
Varten grinned. "That anxiety will ease as you learn to trust Black Lion and work as a team. Think of it this way- just as there is a specific key for each lion ship, the lion amulets are specific to the chosen wearer, as well as the manifestation of the ties shared between the five. You are the Black Lion, Keith... and the power that comes with Black Amulet is right where it belongs."
In the silence that fell, Keith turned to the Princess, wanting to gauge her reaction to Varten's words. He met her gaze and found nothing but absolute faith and joy in it. She took his hand, and reached up to place her hand on his chest, over the amulet.
"Trust in the Black Lion." She murmured.
"I will. I do."
They continued to stare at each other, feeling the added pull of their bond to the attraction that was already present. The urge to yank Allura against him and kiss the daylights out of her was growing by the second, and Keith was relieved and annoyed to have it dispelled by Sarita's apologetic tones.
"There is one more thing that is imperative for you to know. Now that a new bonding has begun, the Yellow, Green and Red Lions will soon chose their own bond mates."
Allura's eyes grew wide. "Oh! Lance, Hunk and Pidge are going to be chosen, and wear the stones of their lions?"
Sarita exchanged a look with her husband. "It's not a certainty that they'll be chosen."
"Why wouldn't it be?" Keith asked sharply. "They've already been accepted in the sense they're piloting the lions."
"A valid observation." Varten acknowledged with mild reproof. "But there is much more to flying the lion ships than you've been aware of up to this point."
"I realize that, and I'm keeping an open mind." Keith assured him.
"But...if they're not chosen...will we still be able to fly and form Voltron?" Allura asked.
"They will be able to pilot the lions, the mechanical parts will work just as before." Varten said. "But the full power at the heart of Voltron won't be unlocked unless all who fly a lion are fully bonded to its spirit, and that's a matter for each young man to decide. Faith, patience, and a belief in what can't be understood will be required."
"We must get them all in the right frame of mind." Allura said. "I can't imagine flying with anyone but them."
Sarita regarded her intently. "I do believe you are the catalyst to finding the other stones, especially if others are feeling a connection just by thinking of you."
"She did that for me!" Keith affirmed. "This connection between team members and their lions sure would be a big advantage for us in battling against future incursions."
"Indeed." Varten grimaced. "We never had the opportunity to unlock the full power of Voltron, Hagar made sure of that. I pray that you will benefit from knowing our mistakes."
"It won't happen for us if Lance, Pidge and Hunk aren't open to the possibilities." Allura reminded him. "I must figure out what I must do to make that happen, and act on it."
"An idea that is worthy of further exploration." Sarita stated. "It is our solemn vow to do anything we can to assist you."
"And it's mine to honor your legacy." Keith told him, standing and leaning over to clasp forearms with Varten; a warrior's salute to a comrade. "And now, we need to get started. Thank you for your hospitality and your wisdom. I couldn't have gotten this far without it."
"The pleasure is ours, Captain. We all owe you and your team a huge debt of gratitude."
Sarita stood and gave Keith a hug. "We've loved having you stay here. Please don't hesitate to make a return trip as soon as you are able." She laughed a little. "But I'm sure Coran and the others are anxiously awaiting your return."
"Yeah, I'm sure they are, and they're going to have a lot of questions." Keith replied wryly. Good thing he and Allura had the ride back to talk about a plan of action for revealing what they had learned. He turned to her as she rose from her seat with obvious reluctance.
"It's back to reality for us, Princess."
Allura nodded. "I'll go and prepare for our departure."
He'd describe himself as a hard nosed skeptic whose lion ship was run by a compilation of skill blended with amazing technology. He'd humored Allura's assertion of being 'one with my lion' but privately scoffed at it. He'd never thought of magic as real until Sven had run afoul of Witch Hagar and he was forced to acknowledge its existence. He had tended to think of King Alfor's ghostly appearances as scientific triggers of prerecorded holograms until he'd seen him in person.
He wasn't a traditional lion warrior. He was a pilot from Planet Earth who had gotten himself sent to a distant planet for the chance of finding Voltron and flying a cool lion ship that had been branded as the ultimate weapon for use against enemies of Galaxy Garrison. To that end, he'd gotten himself into a war, and found a new calling as a protector, even as he'd constantly been reminded he was an outsider who needed to earn the people's trust.
And he'd done that. This planet had become a home, the people, his people. He'd seen many things that could only be described as magic. And from the first, Black Lion had been the one that called to him when they'd crashed. He'd thought it an automatic signal triggered by shock waves...but now...
Why had Black chosen him? Was it because he was a good pilot? Was he an infusion of new blood for the clan? Why?
He hadn't spoken any of his thoughts aloud, but Varten now spoke to him as if he had, which wasn't a surprise. Keith wryly and privately acknowledged he had accepted the existence of a link with the other man as much as the one with Black Lion.
"Thinking the bonding is merely a way for us to strengthen the original bloodline of the clan is erroneous." The Governor professed. "I can't paint a tidy and perfect picture of why you were chosen, and neither will I hide the fact that the origin of those chosen is an issue with a very small group among our clan who harbor resentment over what they as 'harmful outside influences'.
"These few have not been chosen because their understanding of what the bond represents is based on snobbery and selfish gain. The lion protectors are able to stay with us as long as their spirits are sustained by true nobility, an unwavering faith in the cause of good, and the unselfish acts of free will by those they have chosen. You are chosen because your strength of will and goodness makes you worthy of Black Lion, Keith. That was clear when I gave you the amulet and it sparked. The subsequent vision confirmed that you were favored."
"He's also highly favored by Blue." Sarita said, with a smile directed at Keith. "You wouldn't have been able to see her that night otherwise."
"And Black Lion favors the Princess." Keith said, with a sideways glance at Allura. "From what you're saying, I, uh, guess that had to happen for them to do what they, uh, did."
"That is correct. And so they spoke to you both, and requested your help, did they not?" Varten asked, and the young people nodded. "You granted their request, and that makes the two of you as much our family and a part of the lion clan as those who were born in this village."
Allura couldn't begin to sort out the multitude of feelings she was experiencing when Keith reached for her hand. Sudden shyness was definitely one of them, though, and she didn't quite meet his gaze as they interlocked fingers. Public display of affection from him, though the stuff of her dreams, was taking some getting used to, and several years of etiquette lessons weighed on her mind, even as she ignored them.
Anyway, right now there were important matters to focus on. Instead of thinking about how awesome it was to be holding Keith's hand, she blurted out a question.
"You were the bearer of the Black Lion amulet, Varten. Does being chosen run in your family?"
The older man shook his head. "It's not been like that. Though I'm descended from the first amulet bearer of Black Lion, the amulet has been with other families besides mine before I had it. Somehow it found its way back to me, and that's why I became the first pilot of Black Lion in the form you know him today." At Keith and Allura's exclamations of astonishment, he chuckled sheepishly.
"In my younger years, before the bonding, I was a pilot of some repute, and I trained many others to fly after I joined the Royal military. I rose through the ranks, and the King appointed me Commander of the Arusian Armed Forces. I was chosen by Black, and soon after, the giant robot Voltron was created. Alfor did me the great honor of asking me to fly the Black Lion ship. Being the amulet holder, and with my skills as an experienced pilot, it was a good fit."
"What did you do for the court, Sarita?" Keith asked.
"I was enlisted in the air force. Varten was my flight instructor, which is how we got to know each other." Sarita told him. "Though I wasn't selected to be a pilot on the original team, I worked in intelligence, often alongside Alfor, who commanded his army in person, but was also a strategist intent on minimizing casualties of those he commanded. It was when Alana ended up being the chosen of Blue Lion that he was spurred to his greatest achievements." She smiled at the Princess, who was clearly moved by this news. "Yes, you and your mother share a bond with Blue."
"That's amazing." Keith breathed.
"And it explains why we both loved the water." Allura joked, a bit shakily.
Sarita smiled, then turned. "During this time, the scourge known as Zarkon grew ever more powerful. We had the prophecy of the lions to guide us, and with the creation of Voltron, it soon became obvious Alana was a catalyst for the bonding of the five. Alfor had realized a way to do what needed to be done to keep the warriors intact physically and to increase their durability; he and his scientist worked nonstop to build a means for defense in space combat, one more powerful than had ever been seen before. The King's thought was that the spirits of the lion guardians could be partially tethered to advanced technology and weaponry, which would allow for greater stamina and control for the pilots. And so it was done; the vessels you call the lion ships are essentially shields for the true power of Voltron."
"That must have been an exciting time." Allura murmured.
"It was, but also very difficult. Alana learned to pilot the Blue Lion craft in its development. Alfor was not happy about your mother flying into battles, and so I was trained as a substitute for Blue. I took over after she became pregnant with you, Allura, but as someone who hadn't been chosen, I wasn't able to channel my lion's power with the others when it counted most. I was slated to be on that final mission, but before I could deploy, the Queen had taken the lion and gone where they needed her. She did what she did to protect you, her beloved child. She wasn't about to back down!" Sarita's voice was choked. "But oh...my dearest Allura...this isn't the time or how I should be telling you about your mother. I've given you no preparation, no warning..."
Allura's hand dropped from covering her mouth to her lap. Though she was pale, her voice was strong, her face serene. "This was the perfect time and place, and I'm glad you have told me. You are the first to give me answers instead of platitudes and half truths!" She looked from Sarita to Varten and back again. "Father never told me exactly what happened, only that she perished at the hands of Zarkon and the evil witch. I never got to ask him, because he marched away to the Valley of Zohar..." she compressed her lips, swallowed, and raised her chin to a defiant angle, clearly trying to rein in emotions, "both my parents died protecting all that they loved, and made the ultimate sacrifice for their people. I won't dishonor their memories by wishing it weren't so."
"To understand their sacrifice requires a noble heart full of love." Sarita said gently. "But it is not selfish to mourn a loss of loved ones. It's proof that they loved and were loved. It's human to the core."
"I am the only survivor of that split." Varten stated abruptly, his features furrowed by anguish. "I was ejected from Black Lion before he crashed onto a grassy knoll. I suffered numerous injuries, but I was alive. For reasons then unknown to me, I had been spared. " He bowed his head. "All I could think of is that my team had perished. I thought it would have been better of I died too."
"No!" Allura exclaimed tearfully. "You're dear to your people, and you've become dear to me. I am so thankful and happy that you're here! I am the better for it!"
Varten looked up and into the Princess' eyes in a wordless but profound exchange, before murmuring, "I thank you, my dear. You are truly your mother's daughter."
Her face grew pink with pleasure. "If it isn't too painful, I would like to hear what happened to you after Voltron was broken up." She said gently.
The Governor took a moment to compose himself, then took up the tale once more. "As I lay drifting in the haze between life and death, my comrades, flanked by their respective lions, appeared to me, assuring me that they needed to leave me for awhile, but when the time was right, the lions would return, and Voltron would rise again."
"Knowing that the spirit bonds endured after death helped me come to terms with the loss of my comrades. They were in a good place, a safe place, and I was certain I'd see them again. But now, it fell to me to be there for the living. I hung on to consciousness, sending a distress call until help arrived. I passed out as I was being lifted, and six days later woke in the Castle, much improved, only to learn of the death of Alfor and the castle bearing severe damage from our enemies. A devastating blow, but mourning for our beloved rulers and comrades had to be set aside."
Sarita took up the tale. "Despite his severe wounds, he was determined to board a shuttle for Althene, gather survivors and lead them to safety in the caves not far from here. As a logistics specialist, I went with him. The casualties were terrible, so many perished that terrible day. All because of Hagar." She spat the name as she would an expletive, as her eyes tenderly surveyed her husband. "We were welcomed, but there were those who became bitter as the days of strife became weeks, and then months, feeling that the Guardians had abandoned as. As leader, my husband took full responsibility for the defeat of Voltron, and urged those who wanted to blame the lions to blame him instead."
Allura was aghast. "You're not to blame for the evil that visited this world! It was the first Arus had seen of Hagar, was it not? Who would think she had the power of hiding ugliness and evil within beauty and light? She's a powerful illusionist who has perfected her craft, she's incredibly cunning, and she has fooled countless people!"
"It was my fault." Varten stated stonily. "It was my responsibility to question what seemed too good to be true, to see through to the evil heart lurking beneath the magical disguise before it was too late. Instead I fell prey to the trickery of a false goddess, and unquestioningly led us right into her trap."
"You might have been the first to be fooled, but you weren't the last!" Keith asserted. "Heck, that old witch fooled us with her disguises even when we knew she had the capability of doing so! Deception is the strongest part of her magic. Honest people are her targets because we look for the good. The shame is hers, not yours!"
"Your compassionate words are balm to my spirit. Thank you." Varten's smile was less strained. "Coming to terms with my mistake is work that is still in progress, though time has somewhat softened the blow. Returning to Althene has helped heal some of the wounds. Though I had failed, my people still saw me as a hero and made me leader of the clan. I consented to Coran's offer and have been privileged to serve in an official capacity as Governor of this region."
Sarita spoke up. "We'd hoped to start a family along the way. But having children wasn't something that was in our future; it has been a source of sorrow for us both, but now I feel the joy and pride of a mother."
A smile smoothed the lines of Varten's face, made him look years younger. "It's a glorious day." He said warmly. "All has been made clear. Our purpose is to help you find your places within the universe. We are family, and you are our heirs."
Allura had teared up again, and was having trouble forming words. Keith spoke, giving her time to collect herself. "We will do our best to make you proud, sir."
"You already have!" The older man exclaimed. "Ah, I see you shaking your head! I don't wish to pry, but the lion bond can be both exhilarating and disconcerting at first. If there's anything I can help with?"
Keith rubbed the back of his head. He wasn't normally one to talk about his feelings, but this wasn't anything close to a normal occasion. "It is pretty overwhelming when I let myself think about it. I feel lots of things. Excited. Proud. And a little freaked out."
Varten grinned. "That anxiety will ease as you learn to trust Black Lion and work as a team. Think of it this way- just as there is a specific key for each lion ship, the lion amulets are specific to the chosen wearer, as well as the manifestation of the ties shared between the five. You are the Black Lion, Keith... and the power that comes with Black Amulet is right where it belongs."
In the silence that fell, Keith turned to the Princess, wanting to gauge her reaction to Varten's words. He met her gaze and found nothing but absolute faith and joy in it. She took his hand, and reached up to place her hand on his chest, over the amulet.
"Trust in the Black Lion." She murmured.
"I will. I do."
They continued to stare at each other, feeling the added pull of their bond to the attraction that was already present. The urge to yank Allura against him and kiss the daylights out of her was growing by the second, and Keith was relieved and annoyed to have it dispelled by Sarita's apologetic tones.
"There is one more thing that is imperative for you to know. Now that a new bonding has begun, the Yellow, Green and Red Lions will soon chose their own bond mates."
Allura's eyes grew wide. "Oh! Lance, Hunk and Pidge are going to be chosen, and wear the stones of their lions?"
Sarita exchanged a look with her husband. "It's not a certainty that they'll be chosen."
"Why wouldn't it be?" Keith asked sharply. "They've already been accepted in the sense they're piloting the lions."
"A valid observation." Varten acknowledged with mild reproof. "But there is much more to flying the lion ships than you've been aware of up to this point."
"I realize that, and I'm keeping an open mind." Keith assured him.
"But...if they're not chosen...will we still be able to fly and form Voltron?" Allura asked.
"They will be able to pilot the lions, the mechanical parts will work just as before." Varten said. "But the full power at the heart of Voltron won't be unlocked unless all who fly a lion are fully bonded to its spirit, and that's a matter for each young man to decide. Faith, patience, and a belief in what can't be understood will be required."
"We must get them all in the right frame of mind." Allura said. "I can't imagine flying with anyone but them."
Sarita regarded her intently. "I do believe you are the catalyst to finding the other stones, especially if others are feeling a connection just by thinking of you."
"She did that for me!" Keith affirmed. "This connection between team members and their lions sure would be a big advantage for us in battling against future incursions."
"Indeed." Varten grimaced. "We never had the opportunity to unlock the full power of Voltron, Hagar made sure of that. I pray that you will benefit from knowing our mistakes."
"It won't happen for us if Lance, Pidge and Hunk aren't open to the possibilities." Allura reminded him. "I must figure out what I must do to make that happen, and act on it."
"An idea that is worthy of further exploration." Sarita stated. "It is our solemn vow to do anything we can to assist you."
"And it's mine to honor your legacy." Keith told him, standing and leaning over to clasp forearms with Varten; a warrior's salute to a comrade. "And now, we need to get started. Thank you for your hospitality and your wisdom. I couldn't have gotten this far without it."
"The pleasure is ours, Captain. We all owe you and your team a huge debt of gratitude."
Sarita stood and gave Keith a hug. "We've loved having you stay here. Please don't hesitate to make a return trip as soon as you are able." She laughed a little. "But I'm sure Coran and the others are anxiously awaiting your return."
"Yeah, I'm sure they are, and they're going to have a lot of questions." Keith replied wryly. Good thing he and Allura had the ride back to talk about a plan of action for revealing what they had learned. He turned to her as she rose from her seat with obvious reluctance.
"It's back to reality for us, Princess."
Allura nodded. "I'll go and prepare for our departure."
The goodbye hugs and exchanges of promises to keep in frequent contact with the Carlacs were made in private. Their official send off included almost the entire village escorting Keith and Allura to the clearing where Black Lion awaited their return.
As the villagers cheered and waved from a safe distance, the smooth and sleek metal cat took a running leap and streaked upwards into the crisp blue Arusian sky.
He'd been at the controls of this lion ship for countless times now, but Keith realized at once that he'd never felt so in sync with Black Lion in any situation previous to this day. The controls seemed so much more responsive to his touch. The power of the great ship ripped through him with exhilaration and filled him with confidence tempered with a Zen like calm.
So enraptured was he with flying, it took him a few minutes to realize that the Princess had been very quiet since Black Lion had left Althene airspace.
He knew that the emotional good-bye Allura had exchanged with the Carlacs was a good indication of how much the couple had come to mean to her. He had experienced similar emotions as he once again grasped forearms with Varten.
The Governor was extraordinary person- it would be right and good to honor the man for his many brave deeds. Before they'd taken leave of the Carlacs, Allura had done her best to convince him to accept a special royal commendation for his service, but the former pilot had firmly declined, suggesting that a monument to his fallen teammates would be the best thank you of all.
Survivor's guilt, Keith thought, his dark eyes reflecting empathy. He'd experienced the gut wrenching loss of a team member when Sven had been critically injured. But not while they were flying! And to lose your entire team, and the Queen to boot?
Putting Black Lion on autopilot, he swiveled around to look at the silent woman behind him. Allura was staring into the distance. Her brow was uncharacteristically furrowed.
He gave her some space. Minutes ticked by. Finally, he spoke her name. No response. He tried again.
"Princess? Are you with me?"
As the villagers cheered and waved from a safe distance, the smooth and sleek metal cat took a running leap and streaked upwards into the crisp blue Arusian sky.
He'd been at the controls of this lion ship for countless times now, but Keith realized at once that he'd never felt so in sync with Black Lion in any situation previous to this day. The controls seemed so much more responsive to his touch. The power of the great ship ripped through him with exhilaration and filled him with confidence tempered with a Zen like calm.
So enraptured was he with flying, it took him a few minutes to realize that the Princess had been very quiet since Black Lion had left Althene airspace.
He knew that the emotional good-bye Allura had exchanged with the Carlacs was a good indication of how much the couple had come to mean to her. He had experienced similar emotions as he once again grasped forearms with Varten.
The Governor was extraordinary person- it would be right and good to honor the man for his many brave deeds. Before they'd taken leave of the Carlacs, Allura had done her best to convince him to accept a special royal commendation for his service, but the former pilot had firmly declined, suggesting that a monument to his fallen teammates would be the best thank you of all.
Survivor's guilt, Keith thought, his dark eyes reflecting empathy. He'd experienced the gut wrenching loss of a team member when Sven had been critically injured. But not while they were flying! And to lose your entire team, and the Queen to boot?
Putting Black Lion on autopilot, he swiveled around to look at the silent woman behind him. Allura was staring into the distance. Her brow was uncharacteristically furrowed.
He gave her some space. Minutes ticked by. Finally, he spoke her name. No response. He tried again.
"Princess? Are you with me?"
Allura gave a start as a gloved hand was waved in front of her face, and turned to look at her companion, who was regarding her with a bemused air. "Pardon me?"
"It's been almost twenty minutes since you've said anything." Keith said. "Everything okay?"
"Yes, everything's fine. And I'm fine." At seeing his raised eyebrows, she added, "all right, maybe sad to be leaving- I had a wonderful time! But there's no good reason for being bad company. I'm sorry."
His brown eyes were as warm as melted chocolate as he smiled at her. "You've had a lot of pretty intense stuff to absorb in the last couple of days."
"Yes, that is true. But so have you."
"Yeah, well...what happened didn't involve dramatic revelations about my family."
The observation could have stung, Allura thought, but the gentle concern that emanated from him softened the bluntness of his statement. "It's a bittersweet feeling," she admitted, "knowing she died flying in Blue Lion, defending the planet."
He nodded. "A champion for the people, doing what you do every day."
"Thank you, that's a sweet thing to say. I do feel closer to her somehow. And if I'm even half as good and brave as she was, I'll be happy." Her smile vanished. "The one thing that bothers me is why she has never appeared to guide me as Father has done. If her spirit is linked with Blue Lion's, why haven't I been able to see her?"
Keith frowned. The possibility of Queen Alana's spectral presence being tied to the Blue Lion had also occurred to him but he had no answer for the lack of contact. Deference to the King? Wanting her daughter to find her own way? Or maybe something that wasn't meant to be?
"I think there's a lot we don't fully understand." He said carefully. "But if I've learned anything so far from the bonding, it's that believing in what I don't understand is necessary to making good things happen."
It wasn't the most satisfactory response, but it seemed to comfort Allura. Her demeanor became more relaxed.
"At least we don't need divine intervention to figure out what we'll tell the team about us." She said.
He chuckled. "Personally, I can't wait to see their faces when they find out we made out in the jungle moonlight."
She crimsoned. "You wouldn't really tell them that, would you?"
"Or that we found a great place for skinny dipping, and got to sleep together without a chaperone..."
"Keith! You're the one who said we have to be discreet or it'll go badly!"
She was right, of course, but he regretted seeing the enchantment of Althene was wearing off and the happy go lucky Allura rapidly reverting to Princess mode. "I'm sorry for teasing. Tell me how you'd like to proceed. I'm fine with what you choose to say about all of this."
"But I want it to be your choice too!"
He found her hand, raised it to his lips, then rested their joined hands on his thigh. "My preference is to keep it secret for now. It's very new, and some private time between us before the world horns in with opinions about our relationship would be a good thing."
"I agree. But I don't know if that's feasible."
"Why not?"
Even through her visor, her eyes seemed that much bluer when her cheeks were rosy red, he thought.
"I've been told I'm...well...that I'm not very good at hiding my feelings when it comes to you. The team will pick up on it, especially Lance. He's got a nose for when I'm hiding something, he knows me too well."
Keith ignored the stab of annoyance. "So I'll treat you like my little sis, and you can think of me as your big brother."
She made a face. "A disturbing idea. I'd feel too...creepy."
He smirked. "Then let's be besties!"
She scrunched up her nose. "What are 'besties'?"
"Best friends. When we're in the lions or during organized activities for the crown, we're professionals doing our job. Off the clock, we joke around and hang out, acting like besties."
"Sounds reasonable." Allura agreed. "So would you be doing the things with me that Lance does?"
Keith stared at her. Her expression was guileless. She really had no clue, so he gritted out an answer.
"And just what does Lance do with you?"
"I think there's a lot we don't fully understand." He said carefully. "But if I've learned anything so far from the bonding, it's that believing in what I don't understand is necessary to making good things happen."
It wasn't the most satisfactory response, but it seemed to comfort Allura. Her demeanor became more relaxed.
"At least we don't need divine intervention to figure out what we'll tell the team about us." She said.
He chuckled. "Personally, I can't wait to see their faces when they find out we made out in the jungle moonlight."
She crimsoned. "You wouldn't really tell them that, would you?"
"Or that we found a great place for skinny dipping, and got to sleep together without a chaperone..."
"Keith! You're the one who said we have to be discreet or it'll go badly!"
She was right, of course, but he regretted seeing the enchantment of Althene was wearing off and the happy go lucky Allura rapidly reverting to Princess mode. "I'm sorry for teasing. Tell me how you'd like to proceed. I'm fine with what you choose to say about all of this."
"But I want it to be your choice too!"
He found her hand, raised it to his lips, then rested their joined hands on his thigh. "My preference is to keep it secret for now. It's very new, and some private time between us before the world horns in with opinions about our relationship would be a good thing."
"I agree. But I don't know if that's feasible."
"Why not?"
Even through her visor, her eyes seemed that much bluer when her cheeks were rosy red, he thought.
"I've been told I'm...well...that I'm not very good at hiding my feelings when it comes to you. The team will pick up on it, especially Lance. He's got a nose for when I'm hiding something, he knows me too well."
Keith ignored the stab of annoyance. "So I'll treat you like my little sis, and you can think of me as your big brother."
She made a face. "A disturbing idea. I'd feel too...creepy."
He smirked. "Then let's be besties!"
She scrunched up her nose. "What are 'besties'?"
"Best friends. When we're in the lions or during organized activities for the crown, we're professionals doing our job. Off the clock, we joke around and hang out, acting like besties."
"Sounds reasonable." Allura agreed. "So would you be doing the things with me that Lance does?"
Keith stared at her. Her expression was guileless. She really had no clue, so he gritted out an answer.
"And just what does Lance do with you?"
Keith's terse question and stare was discomfiting, Allura thought, considering that only a moment ago he'd been teasing her. He clearly was displeased with her comment about Lance...why? She wouldn't attribute it to jealousy...so silly! He knew very well she and Lance were friends- sometimes frenemies in Lion practice- and there had been no romantic gestures on Lance's part at all!
"He escorts me to the marketplace in Arusia, sometimes we take walks in the gardens, and he accompanies me on my visits to see the orphans."
"Good. Those are the kinds of things I can do without raising suspicions- what else?"
"We have gone target shooting and he has been showing me how to take photographs with his camera." She paused. "But that doesn't mean you have to do the same. Isn't there something you could show me that I would enjoy?"
"Wow." His grin was wolfish. "Such an innocent question. So many unsuitable answers."
"Unsuitable? What do you mean?"
"It means I can think of several things I could teach you that wouldn't be on the list of Nanny approved activities."
Dark eyes glittered with mischief, making his implication crystal clear.
"Not that! I meant something that we could take up as a hobby!" She protested.
"It can be a hobby." He stated. "It definitely involves creativity-"
She was torn between laughter and exasperation. "I can't believe this is you, talking like that!"
Keith laughed. "And I can't decide if you're a bad influence or my greatest muse!"
Before she could think of a snappy retort, he swiveled around to check that they were still on course. Everything was in order so he left the autopilot engaged, and directed his attention back to her. "Seriously though. It's music to my ears to hear you laugh."
"I feel so much better now. It's as cathartic as having a good cry."
"I'll try to make you laugh more often."
She laughed again, right on cue. "All right, now back to the topic at hand. We've decided we're going to be best friends..."
"We'll act like friends," Keith corrected firmly, "in public."
"Right. And appearing to be friends will assuage suspicions and enable us to spend time together without commentary. But it still raises a question."
"And what is that?"
"Do 'besties'..." she made air quotes with her fingers, "...ever kiss each other?"
Behind his visor, Keith simply blinked at her. Then, without saying a word, he removed his helmet. His ebony hair spilled out wildly around his face; he smoothed it down, then reached out to her. "Take off your helmet and come here please."
She did as he commanded, removing her space helmet and then standing, wondering what he was going to do as he caught up her arm tugged her to a spot directly in front of him. Sliding back in his seat, he parted his legs, then grasped her waist. "Okay, turn away from me and sit down."
Firm hands helped guide her, and soon she was comfortably seated between his legs. The seat was wide enough and deep enough that if their bodies pressed closely together, there was ample room for them to fit behind the lion ship's console.
"Now what should I do?" She asked breathlessly.
"Relax and enjoy the view," he replied.
And they did, looking out on the outside world through the eyes of Black Lion. Keith's body provided warmth and smelled of Sarita's special soap. Allura's head lolled back on his shoulder, and she sighed. "Cuddling is nice."
"Yeah, it is. But I know something that's nicer."
"What could be nicer than-"
The rest of her words were sucked in on a swift inhalation of air. Her hair, done up in a chignon, left her ear exposed to the press of warm male lips. Soft as thistledown, they traced the shell pink outer curve of her ear.
With a shiver of delight, she angled her head towards him to better accommodate his access to the sensitive area. Murmuring appreciation, he nuzzled her with abandon as his hands slid across the front of her waist until his forearms crossed over her belly. She floated in a haze of pleasure as slow, exquisitely gentle, almost hypnotic kisses were lavished on her ear and temple. She was so relaxed, her body pliant to the point of utter languor...until she felt the tip of his tongue tasting the hollow below her earlobe.
Amazing how one little touch could make her all tense and taut and send the blood rushing to her nether regions. A small moan whispered from her throat.
"Have I answered your question about besties?" Keith murmured into her ear, as his strong white teeth took a little nip of the lobe. "And is this nicer?"
"Y-yes and yes," she stuttered, her hands covering his. "I just wish that-"
A dinging sound interrupted her confession, and left her blinking in disbelief. Keith muttered what sounded like a curse, buried his face in the curve of her neck for a moment, and then raised his head, his eyes going to the screen of the GPS. "We're in Arusia. Need to go to manual control."
"Oh." So disappointing, but at least he wasn't hiding his feelings. He was frustrated too.
"Want to fly Black the rest of the way?"
She rolled her head sideways to look at him. "Let's do it together."
"As you wish." Keith said with a grin. "Disengage the autopilot when you're ready."
She leaned forward and flipped the switch. The manual control light blinked and they each took a control stick. As their hands steered the craft in tandem, a new sound pulsed within the harnessed lion, a reverberating roar, which was followed by a powering up that caused the ship to shoot ahead with greater speed than ever before, pressing its passengers even closer together with the G-force.
Allura gritted her teeth. As much she liked having him close, this was like being clamped to him with a vise. "Keith..."
"Don't worry, I got this!"
In her peripheral vision she saw him close his eyes and his brow furrow in concentration. A familiar sparking below the chest piece of his uniform drew her gaze; she realized then that he was attempting to reach out to the lion ship using his bond with Black, and the amulet was acknowledging the connection. A few heart pounding seconds later, and the sounds of power became quieter, more controlled, and then steady. Their speed slowed to the previous setting.
She could breathe again.
Keith opened his eyes, looking amazed. "That was...not like anything I've ever done while piloting. I could feel him. I sent a message and he was listening."
"What you felt just now is what I have been experiencing flying in Blue Lion. A connection..."
"He was reading me for sure. He knew I wanted to be close to you, but that was a little too close for comfort!"
She laughed and nodded.
"Allura, can you seriously imagine what we could do as a team- and as Voltron - if Lance, Pidge and Hunk are chosen for the other amulets?"
"It would be beyond description," she said softly. "Let us hope it comes to pass."
"He escorts me to the marketplace in Arusia, sometimes we take walks in the gardens, and he accompanies me on my visits to see the orphans."
"Good. Those are the kinds of things I can do without raising suspicions- what else?"
"We have gone target shooting and he has been showing me how to take photographs with his camera." She paused. "But that doesn't mean you have to do the same. Isn't there something you could show me that I would enjoy?"
"Wow." His grin was wolfish. "Such an innocent question. So many unsuitable answers."
"Unsuitable? What do you mean?"
"It means I can think of several things I could teach you that wouldn't be on the list of Nanny approved activities."
Dark eyes glittered with mischief, making his implication crystal clear.
"Not that! I meant something that we could take up as a hobby!" She protested.
"It can be a hobby." He stated. "It definitely involves creativity-"
She was torn between laughter and exasperation. "I can't believe this is you, talking like that!"
Keith laughed. "And I can't decide if you're a bad influence or my greatest muse!"
Before she could think of a snappy retort, he swiveled around to check that they were still on course. Everything was in order so he left the autopilot engaged, and directed his attention back to her. "Seriously though. It's music to my ears to hear you laugh."
"I feel so much better now. It's as cathartic as having a good cry."
"I'll try to make you laugh more often."
She laughed again, right on cue. "All right, now back to the topic at hand. We've decided we're going to be best friends..."
"We'll act like friends," Keith corrected firmly, "in public."
"Right. And appearing to be friends will assuage suspicions and enable us to spend time together without commentary. But it still raises a question."
"And what is that?"
"Do 'besties'..." she made air quotes with her fingers, "...ever kiss each other?"
Behind his visor, Keith simply blinked at her. Then, without saying a word, he removed his helmet. His ebony hair spilled out wildly around his face; he smoothed it down, then reached out to her. "Take off your helmet and come here please."
She did as he commanded, removing her space helmet and then standing, wondering what he was going to do as he caught up her arm tugged her to a spot directly in front of him. Sliding back in his seat, he parted his legs, then grasped her waist. "Okay, turn away from me and sit down."
Firm hands helped guide her, and soon she was comfortably seated between his legs. The seat was wide enough and deep enough that if their bodies pressed closely together, there was ample room for them to fit behind the lion ship's console.
"Now what should I do?" She asked breathlessly.
"Relax and enjoy the view," he replied.
And they did, looking out on the outside world through the eyes of Black Lion. Keith's body provided warmth and smelled of Sarita's special soap. Allura's head lolled back on his shoulder, and she sighed. "Cuddling is nice."
"Yeah, it is. But I know something that's nicer."
"What could be nicer than-"
The rest of her words were sucked in on a swift inhalation of air. Her hair, done up in a chignon, left her ear exposed to the press of warm male lips. Soft as thistledown, they traced the shell pink outer curve of her ear.
With a shiver of delight, she angled her head towards him to better accommodate his access to the sensitive area. Murmuring appreciation, he nuzzled her with abandon as his hands slid across the front of her waist until his forearms crossed over her belly. She floated in a haze of pleasure as slow, exquisitely gentle, almost hypnotic kisses were lavished on her ear and temple. She was so relaxed, her body pliant to the point of utter languor...until she felt the tip of his tongue tasting the hollow below her earlobe.
Amazing how one little touch could make her all tense and taut and send the blood rushing to her nether regions. A small moan whispered from her throat.
"Have I answered your question about besties?" Keith murmured into her ear, as his strong white teeth took a little nip of the lobe. "And is this nicer?"
"Y-yes and yes," she stuttered, her hands covering his. "I just wish that-"
A dinging sound interrupted her confession, and left her blinking in disbelief. Keith muttered what sounded like a curse, buried his face in the curve of her neck for a moment, and then raised his head, his eyes going to the screen of the GPS. "We're in Arusia. Need to go to manual control."
"Oh." So disappointing, but at least he wasn't hiding his feelings. He was frustrated too.
"Want to fly Black the rest of the way?"
She rolled her head sideways to look at him. "Let's do it together."
"As you wish." Keith said with a grin. "Disengage the autopilot when you're ready."
She leaned forward and flipped the switch. The manual control light blinked and they each took a control stick. As their hands steered the craft in tandem, a new sound pulsed within the harnessed lion, a reverberating roar, which was followed by a powering up that caused the ship to shoot ahead with greater speed than ever before, pressing its passengers even closer together with the G-force.
Allura gritted her teeth. As much she liked having him close, this was like being clamped to him with a vise. "Keith..."
"Don't worry, I got this!"
In her peripheral vision she saw him close his eyes and his brow furrow in concentration. A familiar sparking below the chest piece of his uniform drew her gaze; she realized then that he was attempting to reach out to the lion ship using his bond with Black, and the amulet was acknowledging the connection. A few heart pounding seconds later, and the sounds of power became quieter, more controlled, and then steady. Their speed slowed to the previous setting.
She could breathe again.
Keith opened his eyes, looking amazed. "That was...not like anything I've ever done while piloting. I could feel him. I sent a message and he was listening."
"What you felt just now is what I have been experiencing flying in Blue Lion. A connection..."
"He was reading me for sure. He knew I wanted to be close to you, but that was a little too close for comfort!"
She laughed and nodded.
"Allura, can you seriously imagine what we could do as a team- and as Voltron - if Lance, Pidge and Hunk are chosen for the other amulets?"
"It would be beyond description," she said softly. "Let us hope it comes to pass."
As the silhouetted spires of the Castle of Lions loomed on the horizon, the demanding tone of an incoming summons sounded in the cockpit. Allura tuned in the communications channel and a crackle of static proceeded a familiar voice.
"Castle Control to Black Lion. This is Coran. Do you copy?"
Keith pressed the transmitter. "Black Lion to Castle Arus. We copy."
"Everything all right? Your lion cam isn't operational."
"Sorry, turned it off to save power. Switching on visuals now."
Allura was already off his lap, putting on her helmet and strapping herself into her own seat. Keith admired her efficiency, even as he felt irrationally irritated at her haste to leave him.
The image of the mustachioed Royal Advisor filled the dashboard screen.
"Ah, there you are. Princess! How are you faring?"
"Totally rested and well." Allura said warmly. "I can't thank you enough for making this trip possible, Coran. It was just what I needed."
"Yes. Well." Her guardian cleared his throat. "You are quite welcome. We are looking forward to hearing about your experiences in Althene."
"Apologies, sir," Keith broke in. "But protocol dictates that I need permission to land."
"Oh yes, of course. Permission granted, and we'll see you in a few minutes. I'm sure you'll have some fascinating things to share as well. Coran out."
"Copy that, Castle Control. Black Lion out." Keith said, then chuckled as he cut the comm link. "I think that was a diplomat's way of saying we're not going anywhere until he debriefs us." He told Allura wryly. "So...are you ready to face our welcoming committee?"
She gave him a thumbs up and a smile. "Ready and able."
"Okay if I do a couple 'honey I'm home' passes around the Castle before we land?"
She smiled. "I insist on it."
"Castle Control to Black Lion. This is Coran. Do you copy?"
Keith pressed the transmitter. "Black Lion to Castle Arus. We copy."
"Everything all right? Your lion cam isn't operational."
"Sorry, turned it off to save power. Switching on visuals now."
Allura was already off his lap, putting on her helmet and strapping herself into her own seat. Keith admired her efficiency, even as he felt irrationally irritated at her haste to leave him.
The image of the mustachioed Royal Advisor filled the dashboard screen.
"Ah, there you are. Princess! How are you faring?"
"Totally rested and well." Allura said warmly. "I can't thank you enough for making this trip possible, Coran. It was just what I needed."
"Yes. Well." Her guardian cleared his throat. "You are quite welcome. We are looking forward to hearing about your experiences in Althene."
"Apologies, sir," Keith broke in. "But protocol dictates that I need permission to land."
"Oh yes, of course. Permission granted, and we'll see you in a few minutes. I'm sure you'll have some fascinating things to share as well. Coran out."
"Copy that, Castle Control. Black Lion out." Keith said, then chuckled as he cut the comm link. "I think that was a diplomat's way of saying we're not going anywhere until he debriefs us." He told Allura wryly. "So...are you ready to face our welcoming committee?"
She gave him a thumbs up and a smile. "Ready and able."
"Okay if I do a couple 'honey I'm home' passes around the Castle before we land?"
She smiled. "I insist on it."
Black Lion circled the Castle of Lions in graceful swooping arcs, delighting the cheering guards stationed in its ramparts. Then it began its descent, expertly maneuvered by its pilot. With smooth, supple movements that emulated a live big cat, it lowered its hindquarters, coming to a sitting position on the huge pedestal of the lion monument.
Keith could honestly declare that it was the best landing he'd ever made.
Keith could honestly declare that it was the best landing he'd ever made.
Author's Notes: This chapter rewrite combines two chapters of the original, and deviates the most from its counterparts so far in the original BOL in terms of revision and additions. I think it's become more complete. Can you spot the edits/changes/additions? Feedback/c and c's welcomed. A huge hug and thank you to Shannon, my awesome beta. This chapter wouldn't be here without her help. :D
Home Sweet Home
From the command perch atop the deployed metal cylinders of the lion launch pads, Coran took a silent roll call of the people awaiting the arrival of Allura and Keith.
Lance, Pidge, Hunk and the Space Mice, who sat upon Pidge's shoulders chattering excitedly, were all present and accounted for.
Coran's brow furrowed as he realized the only person missing was one Nanny Manning.
He was certain he'd notified her of the Black Lion's return right after speaking with Varten, and again as soon as the lion ship's arrival was imminent. It had become standard practice for her to greet her darling Allura with an embrace after every trip or mission; it assuaged a bit of the pent up angst the poor dear felt over the Princess flying a lion, and the team had treated it with graciousness and understanding, considering how Hannah could go on when she was worried.
Nanny had shown surprising acceptance of his decision to allow the Princess extra time with one of 'those boys' in Althene. Nevertheless, it was almost inconceivable that she would ever be tardy for anything, much less something as important as this reunion.
Coran's frown deepened. With as hard as the woman worked and as little as he heard she'd been sleeping, she may have decided to lie down for a rest. It wasn't at all like her to oversleep. Perhaps he should-
The sudden swooshing sound of launch doors opening diverted the Princess' Royal Guardian from his train of thought. Soon after, Keith and Allura emerged from the lift and greetings echoed around the room.
Allura was all smiles and sparkle, that was nothing new. But Keith- seeing him with a smile and looking completely at ease was quite another.
"Welcome home!" Pidge said, raising his voice to be heard over the happily squeaking mice. "Wow! Can sure tell both of you got some sun! You look great, Princess!"
Allura smiled at him. "Thank you. And thanks for taking care of my little friends. It gave me peace of mind to know you were looking after them." She eyed the mice with mock sternness, as they squeaked and raised their paws in happiness. "I hope it went all right and they behaved themselves."
"They were aces. We had a real good time." Pidge said, basking in the glow of her favor, and deciding on the spot that he wouldn't tattle on the mice, who had taken base advantage of their mouse sitter in regards to snacks and sleeping in his bed-something which was expressly forbidden by housekeeping.
"How was the cuisine?" Hunk inquired.
Keith answered with genuine enthusiasm. "Fantastic! They held a feast in our honor, and the tables were loaded with native grilled dishes and sides, all prepared with what they pick wild, and organic ingredients grown in their gardens."
"Locally sourced and fresh is the absolute best." Hunk declared, envy in his tone. "Next time you head out that way, I'm going with! Gotta experience jungle garden to table!"
"You really do!" Allura affirmed. "Food sources are abundant. If we had gotten lost on a hike, we could have survived nicely on what grew wild. Don't you think so, Keith?"
He nodded. "For sure! There was a lot of tropical fruit along that trail."
They exchanged a smile.
"So I guess my T-shirt came in handy for you, Princess." Lance said, after darting a look at Keith.
"Oh my goodness, yes!" Allura exclaimed. "It was so comfortable for the climate, I wore it a lot. I'll be sure to return to you as soon as it's laundered."
"If you like it, keep it! I have others. They're nice for exercise of all kinds." Lance suggested, sending another sideways glance at Keith. He was trying not to be too blatant about needling his friend. But if Operation Cupid was to work, he had to get the guy to show some awareness of potential competition for his girl.
No reaction. Dang the man and his cool demeanor.
"I would like that, thank you! It'll be great for workouts!"
Allura's delight made Lance wish he'd made her a gift of the t-shirt outright. "Great! Hope you enjoy wearing it as much I'll enjoy that you're wearing it." He said, injecting a ample amount of warmth into his voice while giving his best friend another sidelong glance.
Keith's expression remained bland, but was that an eye twitch? Lance decided to push a little more.
"Hey Keith, I read up on Althene, and it has a solid reputation of being the most beautiful and erotically romantic region on Arus. Would you say it lived up to that billing?"
Allura was looking elsewhere. Hunk and Pidge were looking back and forth between the two pilots, as if they were at a tennis match. Keith gave his friend a narrow-eyed stare, but Lance's expression was a study in blandness, just as Keith's had been, giving the impression he wasn't expecting anything but polite conversation.
"I can confirm that it was beautiful and exotic." Keith finally replied. "For anything else, I guess you'd have to visit yourself and find out."
The answer was a crafty dodge, but the Mona Lisa smile that came to Allura's lips and the rosiness in her cheeks was like striking gold to someone well versed in reading her. Lance's smile was an understated expression of inner glee as he responded, "I definitely will have to do that. When I do, could I hit you up for tips on the most romantic spots?"
Keith opened his mouth, but whatever he was about to say was lost in the shrill squeaks of rodents. The Space Mice ran directly to the Princess, who bent down to scoop them up into her cupped hands.
Lance silently cursed at the mice. The Princess was engrossed in greeting her little friends, who were an effective distraction from the subject. All he could do was resolve to bring up the subject at a more opportune time. In fact, maybe he'd try questioning Allura instead. If something had happened, she had to be bursting at the seams to confide in someone. Who better to confide in than her best friend?
"Welcome! I give thanks to the lions for your safe return!"
Everyone turned towards Coran, who had finished lowering the cylinder bays and finally joined the homecoming party. His greeting to Keith was the typical handshake, but when he turned to Allura he became unusually emotional, giving her a hug instead of the usual clasping of hands. "I suspect I know the answer, but how was the trip?"
"It was more than I could have hoped for," Allura said as they parted. "There's so much to tell...but I'd like to take my things to my room first. There are a couple of mementos I want to put away for safekeeping."
He smiled. "Of course. While you attend to that, I'll prepare a meeting room for the team." His smile turned rueful. "Varten wasn't very forthcoming about answering questions, he preferred that you tell your own tale. I'm most eager to hear of your visit with the Carlacs."
From the command perch atop the deployed metal cylinders of the lion launch pads, Coran took a silent roll call of the people awaiting the arrival of Allura and Keith.
Lance, Pidge, Hunk and the Space Mice, who sat upon Pidge's shoulders chattering excitedly, were all present and accounted for.
Coran's brow furrowed as he realized the only person missing was one Nanny Manning.
He was certain he'd notified her of the Black Lion's return right after speaking with Varten, and again as soon as the lion ship's arrival was imminent. It had become standard practice for her to greet her darling Allura with an embrace after every trip or mission; it assuaged a bit of the pent up angst the poor dear felt over the Princess flying a lion, and the team had treated it with graciousness and understanding, considering how Hannah could go on when she was worried.
Nanny had shown surprising acceptance of his decision to allow the Princess extra time with one of 'those boys' in Althene. Nevertheless, it was almost inconceivable that she would ever be tardy for anything, much less something as important as this reunion.
Coran's frown deepened. With as hard as the woman worked and as little as he heard she'd been sleeping, she may have decided to lie down for a rest. It wasn't at all like her to oversleep. Perhaps he should-
The sudden swooshing sound of launch doors opening diverted the Princess' Royal Guardian from his train of thought. Soon after, Keith and Allura emerged from the lift and greetings echoed around the room.
Allura was all smiles and sparkle, that was nothing new. But Keith- seeing him with a smile and looking completely at ease was quite another.
"Welcome home!" Pidge said, raising his voice to be heard over the happily squeaking mice. "Wow! Can sure tell both of you got some sun! You look great, Princess!"
Allura smiled at him. "Thank you. And thanks for taking care of my little friends. It gave me peace of mind to know you were looking after them." She eyed the mice with mock sternness, as they squeaked and raised their paws in happiness. "I hope it went all right and they behaved themselves."
"They were aces. We had a real good time." Pidge said, basking in the glow of her favor, and deciding on the spot that he wouldn't tattle on the mice, who had taken base advantage of their mouse sitter in regards to snacks and sleeping in his bed-something which was expressly forbidden by housekeeping.
"How was the cuisine?" Hunk inquired.
Keith answered with genuine enthusiasm. "Fantastic! They held a feast in our honor, and the tables were loaded with native grilled dishes and sides, all prepared with what they pick wild, and organic ingredients grown in their gardens."
"Locally sourced and fresh is the absolute best." Hunk declared, envy in his tone. "Next time you head out that way, I'm going with! Gotta experience jungle garden to table!"
"You really do!" Allura affirmed. "Food sources are abundant. If we had gotten lost on a hike, we could have survived nicely on what grew wild. Don't you think so, Keith?"
He nodded. "For sure! There was a lot of tropical fruit along that trail."
They exchanged a smile.
"So I guess my T-shirt came in handy for you, Princess." Lance said, after darting a look at Keith.
"Oh my goodness, yes!" Allura exclaimed. "It was so comfortable for the climate, I wore it a lot. I'll be sure to return to you as soon as it's laundered."
"If you like it, keep it! I have others. They're nice for exercise of all kinds." Lance suggested, sending another sideways glance at Keith. He was trying not to be too blatant about needling his friend. But if Operation Cupid was to work, he had to get the guy to show some awareness of potential competition for his girl.
No reaction. Dang the man and his cool demeanor.
"I would like that, thank you! It'll be great for workouts!"
Allura's delight made Lance wish he'd made her a gift of the t-shirt outright. "Great! Hope you enjoy wearing it as much I'll enjoy that you're wearing it." He said, injecting a ample amount of warmth into his voice while giving his best friend another sidelong glance.
Keith's expression remained bland, but was that an eye twitch? Lance decided to push a little more.
"Hey Keith, I read up on Althene, and it has a solid reputation of being the most beautiful and erotically romantic region on Arus. Would you say it lived up to that billing?"
Allura was looking elsewhere. Hunk and Pidge were looking back and forth between the two pilots, as if they were at a tennis match. Keith gave his friend a narrow-eyed stare, but Lance's expression was a study in blandness, just as Keith's had been, giving the impression he wasn't expecting anything but polite conversation.
"I can confirm that it was beautiful and exotic." Keith finally replied. "For anything else, I guess you'd have to visit yourself and find out."
The answer was a crafty dodge, but the Mona Lisa smile that came to Allura's lips and the rosiness in her cheeks was like striking gold to someone well versed in reading her. Lance's smile was an understated expression of inner glee as he responded, "I definitely will have to do that. When I do, could I hit you up for tips on the most romantic spots?"
Keith opened his mouth, but whatever he was about to say was lost in the shrill squeaks of rodents. The Space Mice ran directly to the Princess, who bent down to scoop them up into her cupped hands.
Lance silently cursed at the mice. The Princess was engrossed in greeting her little friends, who were an effective distraction from the subject. All he could do was resolve to bring up the subject at a more opportune time. In fact, maybe he'd try questioning Allura instead. If something had happened, she had to be bursting at the seams to confide in someone. Who better to confide in than her best friend?
"Welcome! I give thanks to the lions for your safe return!"
Everyone turned towards Coran, who had finished lowering the cylinder bays and finally joined the homecoming party. His greeting to Keith was the typical handshake, but when he turned to Allura he became unusually emotional, giving her a hug instead of the usual clasping of hands. "I suspect I know the answer, but how was the trip?"
"It was more than I could have hoped for," Allura said as they parted. "There's so much to tell...but I'd like to take my things to my room first. There are a couple of mementos I want to put away for safekeeping."
He smiled. "Of course. While you attend to that, I'll prepare a meeting room for the team." His smile turned rueful. "Varten wasn't very forthcoming about answering questions, he preferred that you tell your own tale. I'm most eager to hear of your visit with the Carlacs."
So far, so good, Keith thought. Everything seemed normal, no one appeared to have noticed anything was different between him and Allura. Lance was sniffing around, but that was nothing out of the ordinary. Disguising his jealousy over the t-shirt had gone quite well, he could tell Lance was disappointed he hadn't taken the bait.
Besides, having a t-shirt for hikes was practical, par for the course. It would be a bad idea to object to something so harmless, even if it did rankle to think of Allura wearing another man's garment. And though he wasn't thrilled with how she'd gotten it, she did look great in it. And if she did workouts in one...well, it would make his a lot less mundane.
So maybe he'd give Allura one of his own t-shirts to wear? The thought brought on a half smile that lasted until Lance offered to carry Allura's backpack to her quarters and she accepted with what seemed like overly abundant enthusiasm. The half smile was now a camouflaged display of gritted teeth as an irrational surge of resentment thundered through him.
This was the downfall in his brilliant plan- having to stand impassively by instead of objecting as his friend plied Allura with his considerable charm. Was this jealousy, or was the territorial lion in him taking over? With all the different techniques he'd been trained in, emotion was usually a controllable factor. But now-well, he wasn't even sure he could risk showing his expression!
And so he turned away from the sight of Lance and the Princess, only to be met by Coran's shrewd gaze. The older man placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Thank you, Keith, for seeing her through this difficult time, and thank you for bringing her back safely to us."
"You're welcome, but you don't really need to thank me. It's my sworn duty to defend her at all costs."
The words were abrupt, the tone gruffer than he intended. Jealousy was harder to contain than he had thought, as were his eyes, which kept straying in Allura's direction, dammit!
The creases in the outer corners of Coran's eyes deepened as he smiled. "There is no doubt in my mind you'd do everything to uphold that duty. I was talking to Varten just before your return and he was singing your praises. I hope you know that you made a profoundly good impression on a man that has been a great and constant champion for Arus."
Keith felt his face grow hot as his petty and uncharitable thoughts about Lance vanished in the face of getting an honorable commendation- also a reminder that true character was revealed when no one was looking.
He needed to do better. With an effort, he drew composure about him like a cloak. "Thank you for saying so. I was fortunate to have found out a lot about him, Coran. He's a hero and an amazing person, and I'm deeply honored that he's spoken well of me."
Besides, having a t-shirt for hikes was practical, par for the course. It would be a bad idea to object to something so harmless, even if it did rankle to think of Allura wearing another man's garment. And though he wasn't thrilled with how she'd gotten it, she did look great in it. And if she did workouts in one...well, it would make his a lot less mundane.
So maybe he'd give Allura one of his own t-shirts to wear? The thought brought on a half smile that lasted until Lance offered to carry Allura's backpack to her quarters and she accepted with what seemed like overly abundant enthusiasm. The half smile was now a camouflaged display of gritted teeth as an irrational surge of resentment thundered through him.
This was the downfall in his brilliant plan- having to stand impassively by instead of objecting as his friend plied Allura with his considerable charm. Was this jealousy, or was the territorial lion in him taking over? With all the different techniques he'd been trained in, emotion was usually a controllable factor. But now-well, he wasn't even sure he could risk showing his expression!
And so he turned away from the sight of Lance and the Princess, only to be met by Coran's shrewd gaze. The older man placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Thank you, Keith, for seeing her through this difficult time, and thank you for bringing her back safely to us."
"You're welcome, but you don't really need to thank me. It's my sworn duty to defend her at all costs."
The words were abrupt, the tone gruffer than he intended. Jealousy was harder to contain than he had thought, as were his eyes, which kept straying in Allura's direction, dammit!
The creases in the outer corners of Coran's eyes deepened as he smiled. "There is no doubt in my mind you'd do everything to uphold that duty. I was talking to Varten just before your return and he was singing your praises. I hope you know that you made a profoundly good impression on a man that has been a great and constant champion for Arus."
Keith felt his face grow hot as his petty and uncharitable thoughts about Lance vanished in the face of getting an honorable commendation- also a reminder that true character was revealed when no one was looking.
He needed to do better. With an effort, he drew composure about him like a cloak. "Thank you for saying so. I was fortunate to have found out a lot about him, Coran. He's a hero and an amazing person, and I'm deeply honored that he's spoken well of me."
Coran kept his expression impassive, knowing the young man before him did not realize that his simmering emotions were easily read by another with the aptitude to do so. As a practiced diplomat, he had been masterfully adept at keeping his ability a secret while making those subtle connections, his probing so skilled as to be indistinguishable. It was a method he had used with the greatest of care and discretion over the years, but such subtlety had been all but useless in fighting the war against Doom.
And so, he'd fallen out of practice. But Keith's emotions, amplified by his connection with his lion, sent out a strong signal that read as easily as having a sign held up in front of him. In mere seconds, Coran knew the truth of the young man's feelings without direct invasion of Keith's private thoughts. What he saw and felt from the mind of his young friend was both pleasing and bittersweet for one who'd had to say farewell to a beloved wife. "I'm certain that what you've learned about the lions during your visit will serve you well."
Keith nodded, looking solemn. "By all accounts I should feel like a veteran, but I've come to realize I'm a neophyte."
"That's a good thing. Humble awareness of self is an absolute necessity for further enlightenment. I'm sure your lion will guide you on the journey."
"My experience with BL so far has me thinking he'll be more like a drill sergeant or a crotchety professor than a guide."
Coran lifted an eyebrow. "From past anecdotes Varten has told me, that's quite possible. I think the words I heard most often were 'hard to please' 'unrelenting' and 'cantankerous cat', with expletives sprinkled in."
"That doesn't surprise me in the least."
The two men grinned at each other.
The moment of understanding ended with the Princess coming to her guardian's side. Grasping his arm, she tip toed to kiss the hollow of his cheek.
"What is all this?" Coran said, sounding gruff but looking pleased. "Have you caught jungle fever? Displays of affection-"
"I want to thank you again for your support." Allura said, interrupting. "Without your help, I couldn't have found my true place."
The diplomat was somber, but the corners of his mustache turned up as he laid a paternal hand on her shoulder. "It was and is my honor and privilege to do so." As Allura's mile faded, he added, "is something wrong?"
"I just realized- is Nanny all right? It's not like her to miss a homecoming!"
"She was fine when we spoke earlier today." Coran said. "But I'm wondering about her too. To ease both of our minds, I will page her from the comm."
And so, he'd fallen out of practice. But Keith's emotions, amplified by his connection with his lion, sent out a strong signal that read as easily as having a sign held up in front of him. In mere seconds, Coran knew the truth of the young man's feelings without direct invasion of Keith's private thoughts. What he saw and felt from the mind of his young friend was both pleasing and bittersweet for one who'd had to say farewell to a beloved wife. "I'm certain that what you've learned about the lions during your visit will serve you well."
Keith nodded, looking solemn. "By all accounts I should feel like a veteran, but I've come to realize I'm a neophyte."
"That's a good thing. Humble awareness of self is an absolute necessity for further enlightenment. I'm sure your lion will guide you on the journey."
"My experience with BL so far has me thinking he'll be more like a drill sergeant or a crotchety professor than a guide."
Coran lifted an eyebrow. "From past anecdotes Varten has told me, that's quite possible. I think the words I heard most often were 'hard to please' 'unrelenting' and 'cantankerous cat', with expletives sprinkled in."
"That doesn't surprise me in the least."
The two men grinned at each other.
The moment of understanding ended with the Princess coming to her guardian's side. Grasping his arm, she tip toed to kiss the hollow of his cheek.
"What is all this?" Coran said, sounding gruff but looking pleased. "Have you caught jungle fever? Displays of affection-"
"I want to thank you again for your support." Allura said, interrupting. "Without your help, I couldn't have found my true place."
The diplomat was somber, but the corners of his mustache turned up as he laid a paternal hand on her shoulder. "It was and is my honor and privilege to do so." As Allura's mile faded, he added, "is something wrong?"
"I just realized- is Nanny all right? It's not like her to miss a homecoming!"
"She was fine when we spoke earlier today." Coran said. "But I'm wondering about her too. To ease both of our minds, I will page her from the comm."
Pidge, who was standing around listening because he had nowhere else to be, smirked to himself at hearing Nanny's absence being discussed.
He figured he was the only one who knew the cause of the woman being late. The mice had clued him in, and he couldn't wait to get the confirmation with his own eyes and ears.
Coran never got a chance to page Nanny. Before anything could be done, the door to Castle Control room slid open and Nanny strode into view. Her pace and posture indicated haste, but her demeanor was remarkably twinkly for someone who was constantly preached that punctuality was a virtue and tardiness was a sin.
Pidge's smirk grew. Clearly, her clandestine meeting had gone well.
"So very sorry I am so late to the party!" The governess called out cheerfully. "But as the boys say, better late than never!"
Allura blinked, rendered momentarily speechless by Nanny's blithe unconcern as she doled out hugs to her charge and to Keith, while saying, "so vonderful to see you, dear children, I hope you had fun!"
She cast her beaming face to the others, including them in the swath of her benevolent smile, seemingly unfazed that she only received bewildered stares in return. Even Coran was looking flabbergasted.
Pidge recovered first. He beamed back at her, his brown eyes shining behind his glasses. "You're an awfully good mood, Nanny." He said. "You've never been late before. Did something extra nice happen this morning?"
The other pilots flinched as the Royal Governess turned and fixed her gaze upon her questioner, who quailed under her unblinking stare in spite of his determination not to. But there was no reprimand for being cheeky, and her smile never wavered as she replied,
"My baby is home again, safe and sound. What could be as nice as that?"
What else indeed, Pidge thought. Of course it wouldn't have had anything to do with getting a bouquet of beautiful flowers from a handsome groundskeeper...
Lance had sidled over to him. "What's up, squirt? You look like the cat that caught the Space Mice."
Pidge shrugged. "I just thought she'd yell at me, and we'd find out why she was late. A ploy, you know? Guess it didn't work."
"Guess not." Lance seemed satisfied, and Pidge mentally congratulated himself on his increased level of skill in practicing subterfuge.
"I am so sorry if the extra time away worried you Nanny, I had more to do that I first thought in order to find out about my family," The Princess said, clearly still anticipating a delayed inquisition.
"Of course it vas important! Und I vas not so vorried as you had the handsome Captain looking after you!" Nanny replied happily.
A simmering silence followed, as those that had been recipients of the sharp side of the Royal Governess's tongue struggled to assimilate this shocking new attitude. Eyes turned to Coran, who simply lifted his shoulders in a small shrug.
Pidge was almost bursting to tell what he knew. But having an admirer appeared to be doing wonders for Nanny's disposition, and imagining how much more pleasant things could get around the castle if Nanny and her gentleman friend were able to carry on without interference was enough motivation to keep quiet.
The silence was growing awkward.
"Well, I guess I'll go change before the meeting." Keith finally said.
A chorus of eager affirmations followed.
Leaving the beaming Nanny for Coran to deal with, the young people departed.
He figured he was the only one who knew the cause of the woman being late. The mice had clued him in, and he couldn't wait to get the confirmation with his own eyes and ears.
Coran never got a chance to page Nanny. Before anything could be done, the door to Castle Control room slid open and Nanny strode into view. Her pace and posture indicated haste, but her demeanor was remarkably twinkly for someone who was constantly preached that punctuality was a virtue and tardiness was a sin.
Pidge's smirk grew. Clearly, her clandestine meeting had gone well.
"So very sorry I am so late to the party!" The governess called out cheerfully. "But as the boys say, better late than never!"
Allura blinked, rendered momentarily speechless by Nanny's blithe unconcern as she doled out hugs to her charge and to Keith, while saying, "so vonderful to see you, dear children, I hope you had fun!"
She cast her beaming face to the others, including them in the swath of her benevolent smile, seemingly unfazed that she only received bewildered stares in return. Even Coran was looking flabbergasted.
Pidge recovered first. He beamed back at her, his brown eyes shining behind his glasses. "You're an awfully good mood, Nanny." He said. "You've never been late before. Did something extra nice happen this morning?"
The other pilots flinched as the Royal Governess turned and fixed her gaze upon her questioner, who quailed under her unblinking stare in spite of his determination not to. But there was no reprimand for being cheeky, and her smile never wavered as she replied,
"My baby is home again, safe and sound. What could be as nice as that?"
What else indeed, Pidge thought. Of course it wouldn't have had anything to do with getting a bouquet of beautiful flowers from a handsome groundskeeper...
Lance had sidled over to him. "What's up, squirt? You look like the cat that caught the Space Mice."
Pidge shrugged. "I just thought she'd yell at me, and we'd find out why she was late. A ploy, you know? Guess it didn't work."
"Guess not." Lance seemed satisfied, and Pidge mentally congratulated himself on his increased level of skill in practicing subterfuge.
"I am so sorry if the extra time away worried you Nanny, I had more to do that I first thought in order to find out about my family," The Princess said, clearly still anticipating a delayed inquisition.
"Of course it vas important! Und I vas not so vorried as you had the handsome Captain looking after you!" Nanny replied happily.
A simmering silence followed, as those that had been recipients of the sharp side of the Royal Governess's tongue struggled to assimilate this shocking new attitude. Eyes turned to Coran, who simply lifted his shoulders in a small shrug.
Pidge was almost bursting to tell what he knew. But having an admirer appeared to be doing wonders for Nanny's disposition, and imagining how much more pleasant things could get around the castle if Nanny and her gentleman friend were able to carry on without interference was enough motivation to keep quiet.
The silence was growing awkward.
"Well, I guess I'll go change before the meeting." Keith finally said.
A chorus of eager affirmations followed.
Leaving the beaming Nanny for Coran to deal with, the young people departed.
The human shaped silhouette cloaked in the shadows of an overhanging wall straightened to a posture of high alert, and then flattened itself, blending in perfectly with the darkness as it observed the members of the Voltron Force filing out of the Castle's control room.
The sight of one of the pilots walking alongside the Princess brought an inaudible hiss of displeasure. Hopefully the man in brown leather wasn't always that attentive to the girl- the dossier said she was free of romantic entanglements, and that the biggest problem would be nullifying the Voltron captain, whose very existence was a bane to the plans of Prince Lotor of Doom. Lotor had used the word eradication, but that tactic didn't play into the bigger picture; one that the Doom Prince didn't have the foresight to envision.
It was a plan of survival, whose blueprint didn't include the assassination of valuable resources.
Hence the current position. To fulfill the mission, it was necessary to observe the daily routines, get to know those who were closely involved with his chosen targets. Patience was vital, not a virtue for the tyrannical rulers of Doom, but one that had served well in getting things this far along.
Voices receded down the corridor as the team dispersed. The shadow slunk along the wall and glided into an open vent, unseen and unheeded by humans and security emplacements alike.
The rodents scampering across the hall were another story. The strange scent and sense of lurking danger halted Cheddar in place, and the mouse looked behind him just in time to spot the shadow that darted around a corner.
It happened so quickly, it was easy to think it an imagined movement. But with Doom constantly on the prowl, the savvy mouse took nothing for granted. He squeaked a command to the others to follow it and find out where it was going. He would alert the Princess.
The sight of one of the pilots walking alongside the Princess brought an inaudible hiss of displeasure. Hopefully the man in brown leather wasn't always that attentive to the girl- the dossier said she was free of romantic entanglements, and that the biggest problem would be nullifying the Voltron captain, whose very existence was a bane to the plans of Prince Lotor of Doom. Lotor had used the word eradication, but that tactic didn't play into the bigger picture; one that the Doom Prince didn't have the foresight to envision.
It was a plan of survival, whose blueprint didn't include the assassination of valuable resources.
Hence the current position. To fulfill the mission, it was necessary to observe the daily routines, get to know those who were closely involved with his chosen targets. Patience was vital, not a virtue for the tyrannical rulers of Doom, but one that had served well in getting things this far along.
Voices receded down the corridor as the team dispersed. The shadow slunk along the wall and glided into an open vent, unseen and unheeded by humans and security emplacements alike.
The rodents scampering across the hall were another story. The strange scent and sense of lurking danger halted Cheddar in place, and the mouse looked behind him just in time to spot the shadow that darted around a corner.
It happened so quickly, it was easy to think it an imagined movement. But with Doom constantly on the prowl, the savvy mouse took nothing for granted. He squeaked a command to the others to follow it and find out where it was going. He would alert the Princess.
"So you were successful in finding what you were looking for, Princess?" Lance inquired as he strolled along the corridors, her backpack slung casually over his shoulder.
"Yes, but not entirely." She smiled apologetically at his ill concealed exasperation. "It's very complicated, and I'd like to wait so I can tell the story to everyone at once. I promise to answer all of your questions then."
"I can understand not wanting to repeat it five times!" Lance said. "Tell me this much, at least...how was it, spending time with our Fearless Leader? Did he manage to unwind and have fun for a change?"
"He seemed to relax and really enjoy himself," was the noncommittal answer. "To be honest, it's impossible not to relax in that place. It's so beautiful and peaceful, and there are no monitors beeping or alarms going off..."
"I bet he still stayed in uniform to uphold the Force's image."
"Only when we first arrived. After that he wore jeans and T-shirts. For the feast he even consented to wear native dress-"
Allura clamped her lips shut, too late in realizing this was something Lance would pounce on.
"And what is native dress for an Althenean?" Lance prodded, not hiding he was sensing a juicy tidbit of information.
"A sarong," Allura said, reluctantly.
"No way! They got Keith to wear a sarong?" Lance's grin was wide. "Never thought I'd see the day Keith went all jungle boy. I'd pay big money for that selfie!"
Allura chose not to respond, not wanting to provide more fuel for the fire. Thankfully they had reached her chambers. She keyed in the code, and pressed the switch to open the door.
Lance followed her into the room, and set her pack on a nearby chair. He turned the moment she spotted the tissue wrapped, ornately bow bedecked dress box sitting upon the pillows of her enormous bed. A large gift tag displayed her name.
"What's this?" She asked. "Do you know anything about it?"
He shrugged. "A surprise, it looks like. Maybe a welcome home gift?"
She pounced on the word. "So you do know about it! Is it from you?"
"I think you'll know when you open the card."
He smilingly watched as she plucked the gift card off the present, a slight hint of color in her face. "It's from Hunk?" She unwrapped the tissue, and lifted the box cover, From inside, she pulled forth a filmy nightgown. "But this is mine! I thought he was going to...oh, what has he done...?"
She draped the garment upon the bed and arranged it with reverent gestures, all the while staring at it with sparkling eyes.
Lance had to acknowledge once again that Hunk was a master at his craft. The ornately embroidered lioness stood out vividly against the white of the background, with lighter and deeper hued threads skillfully used as shading to give her dimension. The lilies beneath her paws were so realistic they looked ready to be picked from the front of the gown. "The guy sure has mad skills with a needle. Who'd have thought those big beefy hands of his could make something this delicate? And I gotta ask, how did he even get the opportunity?"
Allura turned her gaze to the man standing behind her. "I had torn this gown the other day, and was upset. It was a gift from Nanny, so obviously I couldn't ask her to fix it. I confided this to Hunk, and he offered to mend it himself. I was so surprised to find out he knew a lot about needlework, but I wasn't expecting this level of artistry or perfection! The repair is amazing! Why would he go to so much trouble?" She shook her head, holding up a staying hand as Lance opened his mouth. "Please don't. I know it's your nature to tease, but please be serious for a minute. Why would he do this?"
Lance crossed his arms and surveyed her a minute. "All right. You know Hunk's a bit rough around the edges when it comes to expressing himself, right? But he's a sensitive kind of guy beneath the bluster. He couldn't have been more eloquent in telling us that you're like family to him when he showed Pidge and me what he'd made for you."
"I can't believe he even showed you." Allura murmured. "He took quite a risk."
Lance looked a bit stung. "Hey, we wouldn't ridicule him for expressing those feelings, or for having an incredible skill with embroidery- well, not much on that part anyway," he amended, at seeing her wry glance.
"Please Lance, promise me you won't make him feel uncomfortable. As a favor to me?"
"Really? Not even a small joke about hemming and hawing, or being on pins and needles?"
"Not a word."
"Oh all right." He pretended to grumble. "I'll keep quiet. But only because I like you."
"Thank you." She said, rolling her eyes a little at the mischievous look he sent her. "You are such a tease! But despite that...I like you too." She grinned, then continued, "actually, one of the things I like most about you is that you don't put me on a pedestal. Laughing with you always makes me feel...like I'm just a regular person who has friends."
"With or without the crown, you're always my friend."
Surprised, she looked up. Lance met her gaze, his expression sober and sincere.
"It's fun joking around, but I want you to know I am dead serious about keeping my promises, Allura. You have my word that I won't give Hunk grief, but to be honest, I couldn't bring myself to tease him about it if I wanted to. He's a skilled craftsman, and he did his best work to show you how much he cares about you. Making fun of that would be a crime, and despite what may be said about me, I'm a man of honor."
"I know that you are." She regarded him with teary eyes. "I've never doubted that."
They regarded each other in silence until they realized it had gotten awkward.
"But this isn't about me, it's about you and Hunk." Lance said quickly.
"Yes. The nightgown is beautiful. I wish I could make something just as lovely for him, but I'm afraid I don't know how to make anything that he'd be able to use."
"You've given him the things that he cherishes most." Lance replied steadily. "Friendship and trust, and on top of that, you've given him a lion statue that belonged to your father. And the chance to be the pilot of Yellow Lion...is a gift of a lifetime."
She looked happier, but not satisfied. "But those aren't directly from me. I want it to be only something I can give, and not just because he's part of the Voltron Force."
Lance's eyes twinkled as he smiled. "You're going to agonize about it, I can tell. Tell you what, I happen to know of something super special to give him that would make him really happy-"
Allura interrupted. "Not anything with food! I want it to be something that will last a lifetime!"
"Please give me some credit. I'm way more creative than that." He sniffed. "What I'm thinking of is something he'll definitely have for a lifetime, and only you can give him!"
She looked intrigued- and just a titch uncertain. "Tell me. What is it?"
"A memory." He said smugly. "A beautiful, once-in-a-lifetime memory. A memory only you can give."
She scrunched up her nose. "That sounds nice, but what would he want to remember about me for a lifetime?"
Lance shook his head, both amused and touched that she didn't realize she was unforgettable. "You remember when it was time for the Love Bridge festival, and we all drew straws to see who would help you reenact the story?"
She nodded. "Of course I remember. Hunk won."
"So much was happening, you probably didn't realize it at the time, but he was literally sick with disappointment over how his big moment with you on the Love Bridge was ruined by Lotor." Lance told her. "He messed up trying to save you, and then Yellow Lion was damaged, and...well, from start to finish, it was very demoralizing for him."
Blue eyes held regret and empathy. "He was way too hard on himself." Her gaze sharpened. "And you were hard on him too."
Lance fidgeted and looked sheepish. "Yeah, I know. Here's the thing. I think getting a real kiss from the Princess he admires and wants to impress would replace the bad memory with a good one. And it'd give him a great story with a happy ending to tell to his future children. If you'd be okay with that, I think that's the way to go."
Her cheeks were rosy. "I'm okay with that...but it seems rather conceited of me to assume...I mean, I don't see how a kiss from me could be that unforgettable."
"It's not the kiss, but what it conveys. And yes, before you ask, it's enough compensation."
"You're certain it's something he'd like?"
"Very sure." Lance said, thinking it the understatement of the year. "This is serious, and I'm telling you the truth. I may be hard on him, but I love that big lug and I want to see him get his just due."
"Then it's decided!" Allura declared. "I'd be honored to do it! And I'll give him the best kiss I can. A real one, not a peck on the cheek!"
Lance's grin faded a bit and his face reddened slightly. "That would do it. But...uh...please don't take this the wrong way...but...with Coran and Nanny hovering and looking over your shoulder, you haven't really learned the art of kissing. I'm not trying to pull anything, I'm serious. If you need instruction, I'm discreet and a good teacher."
To his surprise, she wasn't embarrassed or put out. And she was smiling in a way that made him think she knew more than anyone knew she knew. "That's very thoughtful of you, Lance, but I think I'll be okay. I've seen movies, and read a lot on the subject. Oh, that reminds me, I have something in my bag to put away!"
As her companion blinked at her retreating back in silent bemusement, Allura hurried over to her pack and unzipped it. As she turned back the sides, a small book fell out and bounced off the mattress, and she gave a cry if dismay as the tome landed at Lance's feet.
The Princess had frozen in place. Her expression was aghast. It was up to him to retrieve things, and he did, with great care. The title on the book's spine was visible; 'Passions of the Heart, Sonnets of Love', and it looked to be very old, but yet in mint condition. As he carefully grasped and lifted it, a pressed flower fluttered out from between its pages.
After a assessing glance, he picked up and handed the flower and then the book to the Princess. "There you go. That's a strong binding, there's no harm done that I can see."
"Thank goodness," she half whispered. She held it flat on the palm of her hands, allowing it to fall open to a place where passages had been marked. Inserting the pressed flower into the crease between the pages, she explained, "Varten was so kind to give me this rare book of classical Arusian poetry. Some of the best loved sonnets, verses and excerpts from tales of romantic lore are in here. I must be more careful!"
He was dying to ask where the flower had come from, and what its significance was but he just didn't have the heart to be nosy as he watched her tuck the book into a dresser drawer with a care that showed how precious it was to her. He'd already made a mental note of the page number of the marked passage and filed it away for future research in the castle library.
She was staring at the book as if in a trance. He cleared his throat, and she jumped and then shut the drawer.
"All set and ready to leave?" He asked.
Her smile, he knew, was her thanks for his discretion. "I think so, yes."
They turned in the direction of the door and jumped in tandem as the chime sounded. Though he doubted an enemy would announce their presence by a door ringtone, Lance was instantly on guard. "Were you expecting company?"
Allura shook her head.
"All right. Let me see who it is."
She waited as he walked to the comm to answer the summons. As a very familiar accented voice announced that the Royal Governess requested entry, Lance groaned.
"Why does she bother? Doesn't she usually just barge in?"
Allura shrugged. "She might have forgotten the code. It changes daily."
"Do I have to let her in?"
"Well, since we have to open the door to leave...it would seem inevitable."
"Dang that reasonable logic of yours!"
She laughed at the face he made.
As the door was opened and Nanny hurried into the room. Lance resigned himself to the tongue lashing sure to be delivered at being caught in Allura's room without a chaperone. But the woman just blew by him, didn't seem to notice him at all. She was all about Allura, running up to her and curtsying.
"I am pleased that you are here, my Princess." She trilled. "Coran sent me to tell you to join him in the debriefing room at your earliest convenience."
"Thank you for relaying the message. As a matter of fact, Lance and I were just about to make our way there." Allura said.
The governess's gaze turned to the Red Lion Pilot, who sent a 'thanks for throwing me under the bus' glower at his companion. "Ah Lance, I meant to thank you earlier for helping our Princess with her bag! Such a thoughtful and gallant young man!"
Lance's jaw dropped and he eyed the woman in front of him. He was suspecting sarcasm, but could find nothing but genuine approval in her expression. A glance to his side told him that Allura was also gaping at the governess, who was standing at attention, with hands folded in a demure and deferential manner.
Nanny never waited for a directive, she always set to doing what she needed to do and saying what was on her mind.
"Was there something else, Nanny?" Allura asked.
"With your leave, I'm here to help get your things reorganized from your trip."
As she spoke, Nanny's head twitched to one side and stayed there, giving her the look of an inquisitive cat. It took the young people's mind off the astounding fact she'd actually asked permission to do something.
Allura and Lance exchanged glances, but he asked the question. "Are you feeling all right, ma'am?"
"Of course!" The older woman replied as her head gave another involuntary spasm.
"No offense, but that's a pretty severe tic you've got going."
Nanny put a hand to her neck, her expression blank until her head gave another jerk. "Ach, that! Just a bit of tightness from contraction. I believe I tweaked a muscle stacking bed linens on the shelves."
"I don't want you in any discomfort." Allura said, frowning. "Please go to see Dr. Gorma. I can unpack my things myself."
"Stuff and nonsense!" Nanny declared with twinkly firmness. "All he'll tell me is to take a couple of those aspirin tablets from Earth- an inefficient use of my time when all it requires is an adjustment, like so!"
Allura and Lance watched as the Royal Governess did a couple of neck rotations; a jarring crack was heard and both young people grimaced.
"Back in place and as good as new!" Nanny asserted.
Indeed, the spasms had stopped.
"It seems better," Allura said, "but are you certain that it shouldn't be looked at-"
"Quite certain!" Making shooing motions with her hand as she spoke, Nanny ushered them towards the door with a return of her usual briskness. "All is vell. I have work to do, and you must go to your meeting."
There was nothing they could do but leave with the Governess's farewell ringing in their ears.
"That was way beyond weird." Lance said, as the door slid closed behind them. With no other option, he and Allura automatically directed their steps in the direction leading to the team conference room. "Guess she knows best how it feels, but that adjustment did not look or sound normal."
"No, it did not." Allura agreed. "I'm still concerned that there's something wrong."
"There must be, 'cause you know when Nanny says I'm thoughtful and gallant, a very hot place is about to freeze over!"
"Oh Lance, you know she only gives you a bad time because she cares so much!"
"Yeah, being chased while having a number ten skillet held over my head has made her affection for me abundantly clear."
"And what could have prompted that scenario, I wonder?"
While the Red Lion pilot regaled her with the latest escapade that had happened in her absence, Allura's peals of laughter echoed into the corridor.
A couple of minutes later she was still chuckling and attempting to playfully swat his arm as they rounded the corner. Lance grabbed and held it, pulling her off balance. She braced herself from falling into him by putting her hand on his chest when she heard someone speak.
"Is there a problem here?"
"Yes, but not entirely." She smiled apologetically at his ill concealed exasperation. "It's very complicated, and I'd like to wait so I can tell the story to everyone at once. I promise to answer all of your questions then."
"I can understand not wanting to repeat it five times!" Lance said. "Tell me this much, at least...how was it, spending time with our Fearless Leader? Did he manage to unwind and have fun for a change?"
"He seemed to relax and really enjoy himself," was the noncommittal answer. "To be honest, it's impossible not to relax in that place. It's so beautiful and peaceful, and there are no monitors beeping or alarms going off..."
"I bet he still stayed in uniform to uphold the Force's image."
"Only when we first arrived. After that he wore jeans and T-shirts. For the feast he even consented to wear native dress-"
Allura clamped her lips shut, too late in realizing this was something Lance would pounce on.
"And what is native dress for an Althenean?" Lance prodded, not hiding he was sensing a juicy tidbit of information.
"A sarong," Allura said, reluctantly.
"No way! They got Keith to wear a sarong?" Lance's grin was wide. "Never thought I'd see the day Keith went all jungle boy. I'd pay big money for that selfie!"
Allura chose not to respond, not wanting to provide more fuel for the fire. Thankfully they had reached her chambers. She keyed in the code, and pressed the switch to open the door.
Lance followed her into the room, and set her pack on a nearby chair. He turned the moment she spotted the tissue wrapped, ornately bow bedecked dress box sitting upon the pillows of her enormous bed. A large gift tag displayed her name.
"What's this?" She asked. "Do you know anything about it?"
He shrugged. "A surprise, it looks like. Maybe a welcome home gift?"
She pounced on the word. "So you do know about it! Is it from you?"
"I think you'll know when you open the card."
He smilingly watched as she plucked the gift card off the present, a slight hint of color in her face. "It's from Hunk?" She unwrapped the tissue, and lifted the box cover, From inside, she pulled forth a filmy nightgown. "But this is mine! I thought he was going to...oh, what has he done...?"
She draped the garment upon the bed and arranged it with reverent gestures, all the while staring at it with sparkling eyes.
Lance had to acknowledge once again that Hunk was a master at his craft. The ornately embroidered lioness stood out vividly against the white of the background, with lighter and deeper hued threads skillfully used as shading to give her dimension. The lilies beneath her paws were so realistic they looked ready to be picked from the front of the gown. "The guy sure has mad skills with a needle. Who'd have thought those big beefy hands of his could make something this delicate? And I gotta ask, how did he even get the opportunity?"
Allura turned her gaze to the man standing behind her. "I had torn this gown the other day, and was upset. It was a gift from Nanny, so obviously I couldn't ask her to fix it. I confided this to Hunk, and he offered to mend it himself. I was so surprised to find out he knew a lot about needlework, but I wasn't expecting this level of artistry or perfection! The repair is amazing! Why would he go to so much trouble?" She shook her head, holding up a staying hand as Lance opened his mouth. "Please don't. I know it's your nature to tease, but please be serious for a minute. Why would he do this?"
Lance crossed his arms and surveyed her a minute. "All right. You know Hunk's a bit rough around the edges when it comes to expressing himself, right? But he's a sensitive kind of guy beneath the bluster. He couldn't have been more eloquent in telling us that you're like family to him when he showed Pidge and me what he'd made for you."
"I can't believe he even showed you." Allura murmured. "He took quite a risk."
Lance looked a bit stung. "Hey, we wouldn't ridicule him for expressing those feelings, or for having an incredible skill with embroidery- well, not much on that part anyway," he amended, at seeing her wry glance.
"Please Lance, promise me you won't make him feel uncomfortable. As a favor to me?"
"Really? Not even a small joke about hemming and hawing, or being on pins and needles?"
"Not a word."
"Oh all right." He pretended to grumble. "I'll keep quiet. But only because I like you."
"Thank you." She said, rolling her eyes a little at the mischievous look he sent her. "You are such a tease! But despite that...I like you too." She grinned, then continued, "actually, one of the things I like most about you is that you don't put me on a pedestal. Laughing with you always makes me feel...like I'm just a regular person who has friends."
"With or without the crown, you're always my friend."
Surprised, she looked up. Lance met her gaze, his expression sober and sincere.
"It's fun joking around, but I want you to know I am dead serious about keeping my promises, Allura. You have my word that I won't give Hunk grief, but to be honest, I couldn't bring myself to tease him about it if I wanted to. He's a skilled craftsman, and he did his best work to show you how much he cares about you. Making fun of that would be a crime, and despite what may be said about me, I'm a man of honor."
"I know that you are." She regarded him with teary eyes. "I've never doubted that."
They regarded each other in silence until they realized it had gotten awkward.
"But this isn't about me, it's about you and Hunk." Lance said quickly.
"Yes. The nightgown is beautiful. I wish I could make something just as lovely for him, but I'm afraid I don't know how to make anything that he'd be able to use."
"You've given him the things that he cherishes most." Lance replied steadily. "Friendship and trust, and on top of that, you've given him a lion statue that belonged to your father. And the chance to be the pilot of Yellow Lion...is a gift of a lifetime."
She looked happier, but not satisfied. "But those aren't directly from me. I want it to be only something I can give, and not just because he's part of the Voltron Force."
Lance's eyes twinkled as he smiled. "You're going to agonize about it, I can tell. Tell you what, I happen to know of something super special to give him that would make him really happy-"
Allura interrupted. "Not anything with food! I want it to be something that will last a lifetime!"
"Please give me some credit. I'm way more creative than that." He sniffed. "What I'm thinking of is something he'll definitely have for a lifetime, and only you can give him!"
She looked intrigued- and just a titch uncertain. "Tell me. What is it?"
"A memory." He said smugly. "A beautiful, once-in-a-lifetime memory. A memory only you can give."
She scrunched up her nose. "That sounds nice, but what would he want to remember about me for a lifetime?"
Lance shook his head, both amused and touched that she didn't realize she was unforgettable. "You remember when it was time for the Love Bridge festival, and we all drew straws to see who would help you reenact the story?"
She nodded. "Of course I remember. Hunk won."
"So much was happening, you probably didn't realize it at the time, but he was literally sick with disappointment over how his big moment with you on the Love Bridge was ruined by Lotor." Lance told her. "He messed up trying to save you, and then Yellow Lion was damaged, and...well, from start to finish, it was very demoralizing for him."
Blue eyes held regret and empathy. "He was way too hard on himself." Her gaze sharpened. "And you were hard on him too."
Lance fidgeted and looked sheepish. "Yeah, I know. Here's the thing. I think getting a real kiss from the Princess he admires and wants to impress would replace the bad memory with a good one. And it'd give him a great story with a happy ending to tell to his future children. If you'd be okay with that, I think that's the way to go."
Her cheeks were rosy. "I'm okay with that...but it seems rather conceited of me to assume...I mean, I don't see how a kiss from me could be that unforgettable."
"It's not the kiss, but what it conveys. And yes, before you ask, it's enough compensation."
"You're certain it's something he'd like?"
"Very sure." Lance said, thinking it the understatement of the year. "This is serious, and I'm telling you the truth. I may be hard on him, but I love that big lug and I want to see him get his just due."
"Then it's decided!" Allura declared. "I'd be honored to do it! And I'll give him the best kiss I can. A real one, not a peck on the cheek!"
Lance's grin faded a bit and his face reddened slightly. "That would do it. But...uh...please don't take this the wrong way...but...with Coran and Nanny hovering and looking over your shoulder, you haven't really learned the art of kissing. I'm not trying to pull anything, I'm serious. If you need instruction, I'm discreet and a good teacher."
To his surprise, she wasn't embarrassed or put out. And she was smiling in a way that made him think she knew more than anyone knew she knew. "That's very thoughtful of you, Lance, but I think I'll be okay. I've seen movies, and read a lot on the subject. Oh, that reminds me, I have something in my bag to put away!"
As her companion blinked at her retreating back in silent bemusement, Allura hurried over to her pack and unzipped it. As she turned back the sides, a small book fell out and bounced off the mattress, and she gave a cry if dismay as the tome landed at Lance's feet.
The Princess had frozen in place. Her expression was aghast. It was up to him to retrieve things, and he did, with great care. The title on the book's spine was visible; 'Passions of the Heart, Sonnets of Love', and it looked to be very old, but yet in mint condition. As he carefully grasped and lifted it, a pressed flower fluttered out from between its pages.
After a assessing glance, he picked up and handed the flower and then the book to the Princess. "There you go. That's a strong binding, there's no harm done that I can see."
"Thank goodness," she half whispered. She held it flat on the palm of her hands, allowing it to fall open to a place where passages had been marked. Inserting the pressed flower into the crease between the pages, she explained, "Varten was so kind to give me this rare book of classical Arusian poetry. Some of the best loved sonnets, verses and excerpts from tales of romantic lore are in here. I must be more careful!"
He was dying to ask where the flower had come from, and what its significance was but he just didn't have the heart to be nosy as he watched her tuck the book into a dresser drawer with a care that showed how precious it was to her. He'd already made a mental note of the page number of the marked passage and filed it away for future research in the castle library.
She was staring at the book as if in a trance. He cleared his throat, and she jumped and then shut the drawer.
"All set and ready to leave?" He asked.
Her smile, he knew, was her thanks for his discretion. "I think so, yes."
They turned in the direction of the door and jumped in tandem as the chime sounded. Though he doubted an enemy would announce their presence by a door ringtone, Lance was instantly on guard. "Were you expecting company?"
Allura shook her head.
"All right. Let me see who it is."
She waited as he walked to the comm to answer the summons. As a very familiar accented voice announced that the Royal Governess requested entry, Lance groaned.
"Why does she bother? Doesn't she usually just barge in?"
Allura shrugged. "She might have forgotten the code. It changes daily."
"Do I have to let her in?"
"Well, since we have to open the door to leave...it would seem inevitable."
"Dang that reasonable logic of yours!"
She laughed at the face he made.
As the door was opened and Nanny hurried into the room. Lance resigned himself to the tongue lashing sure to be delivered at being caught in Allura's room without a chaperone. But the woman just blew by him, didn't seem to notice him at all. She was all about Allura, running up to her and curtsying.
"I am pleased that you are here, my Princess." She trilled. "Coran sent me to tell you to join him in the debriefing room at your earliest convenience."
"Thank you for relaying the message. As a matter of fact, Lance and I were just about to make our way there." Allura said.
The governess's gaze turned to the Red Lion Pilot, who sent a 'thanks for throwing me under the bus' glower at his companion. "Ah Lance, I meant to thank you earlier for helping our Princess with her bag! Such a thoughtful and gallant young man!"
Lance's jaw dropped and he eyed the woman in front of him. He was suspecting sarcasm, but could find nothing but genuine approval in her expression. A glance to his side told him that Allura was also gaping at the governess, who was standing at attention, with hands folded in a demure and deferential manner.
Nanny never waited for a directive, she always set to doing what she needed to do and saying what was on her mind.
"Was there something else, Nanny?" Allura asked.
"With your leave, I'm here to help get your things reorganized from your trip."
As she spoke, Nanny's head twitched to one side and stayed there, giving her the look of an inquisitive cat. It took the young people's mind off the astounding fact she'd actually asked permission to do something.
Allura and Lance exchanged glances, but he asked the question. "Are you feeling all right, ma'am?"
"Of course!" The older woman replied as her head gave another involuntary spasm.
"No offense, but that's a pretty severe tic you've got going."
Nanny put a hand to her neck, her expression blank until her head gave another jerk. "Ach, that! Just a bit of tightness from contraction. I believe I tweaked a muscle stacking bed linens on the shelves."
"I don't want you in any discomfort." Allura said, frowning. "Please go to see Dr. Gorma. I can unpack my things myself."
"Stuff and nonsense!" Nanny declared with twinkly firmness. "All he'll tell me is to take a couple of those aspirin tablets from Earth- an inefficient use of my time when all it requires is an adjustment, like so!"
Allura and Lance watched as the Royal Governess did a couple of neck rotations; a jarring crack was heard and both young people grimaced.
"Back in place and as good as new!" Nanny asserted.
Indeed, the spasms had stopped.
"It seems better," Allura said, "but are you certain that it shouldn't be looked at-"
"Quite certain!" Making shooing motions with her hand as she spoke, Nanny ushered them towards the door with a return of her usual briskness. "All is vell. I have work to do, and you must go to your meeting."
There was nothing they could do but leave with the Governess's farewell ringing in their ears.
"That was way beyond weird." Lance said, as the door slid closed behind them. With no other option, he and Allura automatically directed their steps in the direction leading to the team conference room. "Guess she knows best how it feels, but that adjustment did not look or sound normal."
"No, it did not." Allura agreed. "I'm still concerned that there's something wrong."
"There must be, 'cause you know when Nanny says I'm thoughtful and gallant, a very hot place is about to freeze over!"
"Oh Lance, you know she only gives you a bad time because she cares so much!"
"Yeah, being chased while having a number ten skillet held over my head has made her affection for me abundantly clear."
"And what could have prompted that scenario, I wonder?"
While the Red Lion pilot regaled her with the latest escapade that had happened in her absence, Allura's peals of laughter echoed into the corridor.
A couple of minutes later she was still chuckling and attempting to playfully swat his arm as they rounded the corner. Lance grabbed and held it, pulling her off balance. She braced herself from falling into him by putting her hand on his chest when she heard someone speak.
"Is there a problem here?"
They had frozen in place at the question, but as soon as Allura spotted the man who asked it, she quickly tugged away from Lance's hold. "Keith? What are you doing here? Aren't you going to the meeting?"
"Yeah, since when does our Illustrious Leader resort to lurking?" Lance chirped.
"It's a given with you running amok." Keith said. "The others are waiting for us."
He looked quite calm, but his aura was giving off storm signals and Allura wondered if she should warn the unsuspecting Red Lion pilot of impending danger.
Fortunately, Lance's intuition seemed to be working well because he didn't attempt any further wisecracks.
"Great! Let's go." He said, with an ease that spoke of a clear conscience. "Like I was telling Princess, I can't wait to hear about your trip."
The awkwardness dissipated as the three of them continued to walk. There was nothing different about the way Keith was bantering with Lance, but Allura couldn't shake the feeling of tumult lingering about his person, or that he was avoiding looking at her. It was a two way link, he had to feel her unease, so what was she to do if he wouldn't acknowledge it?
Finally she managed to catch his eye, and extended what she thought of as a psychic hand. For a few anxious seconds there was resistance. In turn, she projected calm and reassurance, seeking to soothe the unrest and irritation lurking beneath his smooth facade.
Keith's demeanor softened, and he gave a half smile. Not totally satisfying, but it was enough.
"Yeah, since when does our Illustrious Leader resort to lurking?" Lance chirped.
"It's a given with you running amok." Keith said. "The others are waiting for us."
He looked quite calm, but his aura was giving off storm signals and Allura wondered if she should warn the unsuspecting Red Lion pilot of impending danger.
Fortunately, Lance's intuition seemed to be working well because he didn't attempt any further wisecracks.
"Great! Let's go." He said, with an ease that spoke of a clear conscience. "Like I was telling Princess, I can't wait to hear about your trip."
The awkwardness dissipated as the three of them continued to walk. There was nothing different about the way Keith was bantering with Lance, but Allura couldn't shake the feeling of tumult lingering about his person, or that he was avoiding looking at her. It was a two way link, he had to feel her unease, so what was she to do if he wouldn't acknowledge it?
Finally she managed to catch his eye, and extended what she thought of as a psychic hand. For a few anxious seconds there was resistance. In turn, she projected calm and reassurance, seeking to soothe the unrest and irritation lurking beneath his smooth facade.
Keith's demeanor softened, and he gave a half smile. Not totally satisfying, but it was enough.
Lance watched the byplay between his friends with marked interest. He wasn't overtly psychic, but he'd always been sensitive to certain vibes...and he was certain there was some kind of energy flowing from the Princess to Keith. Whatever was transpiring between her and Keith, Keith sure looked happier all of a sudden.
Did the Princess have psychic abilities? Is that what the Althene trip had brought forth? It would explain feeling her presence in the castle when she was halfway across the world.
And he could feel a sort of charge in the air just walking next to her. It wasn't static, or anything solid. There wasn't enough to be sure what it was.
As bad timing would have it, both energy flow and his observations were interrupted by their arriving at their destination and an opening door panel.
Pidge greeted them at the door with a grin, with Hunk standing further in the room behind him. "Is it story time now?"
"We should have milk and cookies for story time," the Yellow Lion pilot joked.
Keith chuckled. "Wish I'd thought of that!" He looked into the room. "Looks like we're just waiting on Coran-"
He broke off as the Princess uttered a happy exclamation. Running to Hunk, she virtually launched herself at the gentle giant and threw her arms around his neck. "Thank you, Hunk! It's the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen! Thank you! Thank you so very much!"
Lance had to chuckle. The expression on Keith's face mirrored the thunderstruck look on Hunk's face, but the big guy still had the presence of mind to close his arms around the Princess, lifting her off the floor in a huge hug that was wonderfully uncaring of her rank.
"What is this all about?" Keith asked Lance.
Lance shrugged. "You'll have to ask the lady."
Allura was still gushing. "I couldn't believe my eyes. It's just stunning."
"Told ya I was good." Hunk's grin was cocky, despite the deep blush that darkened his tanned skin.
"You're much better than good," the Princess corrected, pulling back to look him in the face. "It's a masterpiece, and I will treasure it as I cherish having you as my friend!"
And with that declaration, and to the amazement of all, Allura kissed Hunk. Right on the mouth. An honest kiss, long and lingering, chock full of tenderness and gratitude for all that he was. After a stunned moment, Hunk closed his eyes and kissed her back.
"Whoa." Said Lance. "Didn't see that coming."
Did the Princess have psychic abilities? Is that what the Althene trip had brought forth? It would explain feeling her presence in the castle when she was halfway across the world.
And he could feel a sort of charge in the air just walking next to her. It wasn't static, or anything solid. There wasn't enough to be sure what it was.
As bad timing would have it, both energy flow and his observations were interrupted by their arriving at their destination and an opening door panel.
Pidge greeted them at the door with a grin, with Hunk standing further in the room behind him. "Is it story time now?"
"We should have milk and cookies for story time," the Yellow Lion pilot joked.
Keith chuckled. "Wish I'd thought of that!" He looked into the room. "Looks like we're just waiting on Coran-"
He broke off as the Princess uttered a happy exclamation. Running to Hunk, she virtually launched herself at the gentle giant and threw her arms around his neck. "Thank you, Hunk! It's the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen! Thank you! Thank you so very much!"
Lance had to chuckle. The expression on Keith's face mirrored the thunderstruck look on Hunk's face, but the big guy still had the presence of mind to close his arms around the Princess, lifting her off the floor in a huge hug that was wonderfully uncaring of her rank.
"What is this all about?" Keith asked Lance.
Lance shrugged. "You'll have to ask the lady."
Allura was still gushing. "I couldn't believe my eyes. It's just stunning."
"Told ya I was good." Hunk's grin was cocky, despite the deep blush that darkened his tanned skin.
"You're much better than good," the Princess corrected, pulling back to look him in the face. "It's a masterpiece, and I will treasure it as I cherish having you as my friend!"
And with that declaration, and to the amazement of all, Allura kissed Hunk. Right on the mouth. An honest kiss, long and lingering, chock full of tenderness and gratitude for all that he was. After a stunned moment, Hunk closed his eyes and kissed her back.
"Whoa." Said Lance. "Didn't see that coming."
Hunk's expression was a study in happiness as the kiss ended and he gently set Allura's feet back on the floor. She clasped her dainty hands around his large paws, giving them a light squeeze, and he fought the urge to tear up.
She was a precious and noble lady, a Sweetheart of the First Order. He silently renewed his vow to protect and defend her at all costs. "You do me great honor, Princess," he replied, in a courtly tone he never knew he possessed. "My deepest thanks, I will cherish that-"
Further eloquence was stifled by the sound of a throat being cleared. Hunk looked startled, and after a look past Allura, highly uncomfortable. Allura turned with a frown to see Coran had arrived and that everyone present was staring at Hunk and her with expressions that ranged from stern to envious to amazed.
"Coran," Hunk said sheepishly. "Didn't hear you come in. Er- sorry about that."
No one asked him to clarify. They all knew he meant the kiss.
"Absolutely no need to for you to be sorry, Hunk." The Princess told him. To her guardian and the rest of their onlookers, she added, "and there's no need for glowering or admonishments. What's wrong with my thanking a friend for his gift?"
"If you're saying thank you to friends, how about me?" Pidge asked, partly out of hope it would work, and partly because it was clear his big buddy needed a reprieve- Hunk was not used to being the center of this kind of attention and his discomfort was painfully clear.
Allura smiled at the Green Lion Pilot. "This was special one just for Hunk. He did me a kindness I can never repay in kind." She looked at the others. "I'd appreciate if no one spoiled this moment. The gift he gave was heartfelt and sweet. I don't want my thanks for it turned into a bad remembrance.'"
"No chance of that." Hunk mumbled. "That kiss was a doozy."
"Sweet? Are you sure that gift was from Hunk-OW!" Pidge glared as Lance nudged him hard with an elbow and whispered something. Comprehension dawned and Pidge's face grew as red as Hunk's. "Never mind."
"Right. If we've concluded the public display of affection portion of the meeting, shall we get down to business?" Coran suggested, one brow raised in inquiry. His tone was not unkind, but it brooked no arguments.
"You heard him, team." Keith said. "We've got a lot of ground to cover."
The secondary prod did the trick, and the group moved to the conference room table.
"You'll have to tell me about this special gift," Keith said in an undertone as Allura walked past him.
"I'll be happy to." She murmured. "It's not a secret."
The exchange did not go unnoticed by Lance, who immediately added it to his mental list of romantic evidence. Quiet exchanges of words often indicated greater intimacy had been achieved, and he made sure that he seated himself where he could observe any further exchanges.
When everyone was seated and ready, Coran brought the meeting to order. After introductory remarks by the Princess, she deferred to Keith by requesting his account of the Althene trip, just as they had planned earlier. Keith began to speak, and quickly had his audience engrossed in his story.
She was a precious and noble lady, a Sweetheart of the First Order. He silently renewed his vow to protect and defend her at all costs. "You do me great honor, Princess," he replied, in a courtly tone he never knew he possessed. "My deepest thanks, I will cherish that-"
Further eloquence was stifled by the sound of a throat being cleared. Hunk looked startled, and after a look past Allura, highly uncomfortable. Allura turned with a frown to see Coran had arrived and that everyone present was staring at Hunk and her with expressions that ranged from stern to envious to amazed.
"Coran," Hunk said sheepishly. "Didn't hear you come in. Er- sorry about that."
No one asked him to clarify. They all knew he meant the kiss.
"Absolutely no need to for you to be sorry, Hunk." The Princess told him. To her guardian and the rest of their onlookers, she added, "and there's no need for glowering or admonishments. What's wrong with my thanking a friend for his gift?"
"If you're saying thank you to friends, how about me?" Pidge asked, partly out of hope it would work, and partly because it was clear his big buddy needed a reprieve- Hunk was not used to being the center of this kind of attention and his discomfort was painfully clear.
Allura smiled at the Green Lion Pilot. "This was special one just for Hunk. He did me a kindness I can never repay in kind." She looked at the others. "I'd appreciate if no one spoiled this moment. The gift he gave was heartfelt and sweet. I don't want my thanks for it turned into a bad remembrance.'"
"No chance of that." Hunk mumbled. "That kiss was a doozy."
"Sweet? Are you sure that gift was from Hunk-OW!" Pidge glared as Lance nudged him hard with an elbow and whispered something. Comprehension dawned and Pidge's face grew as red as Hunk's. "Never mind."
"Right. If we've concluded the public display of affection portion of the meeting, shall we get down to business?" Coran suggested, one brow raised in inquiry. His tone was not unkind, but it brooked no arguments.
"You heard him, team." Keith said. "We've got a lot of ground to cover."
The secondary prod did the trick, and the group moved to the conference room table.
"You'll have to tell me about this special gift," Keith said in an undertone as Allura walked past him.
"I'll be happy to." She murmured. "It's not a secret."
The exchange did not go unnoticed by Lance, who immediately added it to his mental list of romantic evidence. Quiet exchanges of words often indicated greater intimacy had been achieved, and he made sure that he seated himself where he could observe any further exchanges.
When everyone was seated and ready, Coran brought the meeting to order. After introductory remarks by the Princess, she deferred to Keith by requesting his account of the Althene trip, just as they had planned earlier. Keith began to speak, and quickly had his audience engrossed in his story.
An hour later, the assembled lion pilots sat silently reflecting on specific parts of the tale they had just heard. If it had been anyone but the practical, analytical Keith telling it, they would most likely would have been accusing him of embellishment or taking a hallucinogen. As it was, they were loyal soldiers who accepted the facts as their leader had presented them. He'd given no reason for them to doubt he wasn't of sound mind.
While Keith spoke, Allura had looked from face to face, trying to gauge the feelings of her dearest companions. Despite their obvious effort to keep an open mind, she had seen the uncertainty as Keith spoke of communicating with the lions in their true forms. At times they looked amazed, at others, a bit freaked out, as Pidge would say. She couldn't blame them. To think of the lions as sentient beings was not something they'd been prepared for; it wasn't something any scientifically trained pilot would just accept.
Another realization had surfaced that was problematic. Although she was thankful that Keith had not related the intensely personal details and sensations that had occurred between the two of them and their lions, there was no denying the omission diminished the impact of the events he had disclosed. It was like saying magic existed, but not describing how it looked and felt. Having that knowledge and sharing it was an integral part of making a connection and establishing trust, wasn't it?
She needed to reassure and convince her friends that it was possible to talk to their lions, and all the lions had a place in this quest. To show the amulets together was the one sure way to make the point. Making direct eye contact with Keith, she placed her hand over her collarbone, directly over where the amulet rested under her flight suit, thinking, they don't fully understand. I must show them.
While Keith spoke, Allura had looked from face to face, trying to gauge the feelings of her dearest companions. Despite their obvious effort to keep an open mind, she had seen the uncertainty as Keith spoke of communicating with the lions in their true forms. At times they looked amazed, at others, a bit freaked out, as Pidge would say. She couldn't blame them. To think of the lions as sentient beings was not something they'd been prepared for; it wasn't something any scientifically trained pilot would just accept.
Another realization had surfaced that was problematic. Although she was thankful that Keith had not related the intensely personal details and sensations that had occurred between the two of them and their lions, there was no denying the omission diminished the impact of the events he had disclosed. It was like saying magic existed, but not describing how it looked and felt. Having that knowledge and sharing it was an integral part of making a connection and establishing trust, wasn't it?
She needed to reassure and convince her friends that it was possible to talk to their lions, and all the lions had a place in this quest. To show the amulets together was the one sure way to make the point. Making direct eye contact with Keith, she placed her hand over her collarbone, directly over where the amulet rested under her flight suit, thinking, they don't fully understand. I must show them.
Keith frowned. His amulet's mass was growing warmer and pressing into his skin. But showing its power was risking the repeat of what had transpired between Black Lion and Blue Lion. Describing it as a linking of human and Lion Spirits for the purpose of communication was understating the matter...and Allura was female in a room of males. Would it be the same for her coming in contact with the other Lions?
His gaze traveled around the room, meeting the sober expressions of each of his teammates. Was he so insecure that he'd deny them the privilege of learning about the lion bonds? The heaviness of the stone around his neck bore witness that it was a necessary risk. For them to believe, there had to be trust. For there to be trust, the ability to link had to be shown as truth.
He gave a curt nod, a silent acknowledgment to proceed. The Princess quickly stood up.
"My dear friends, I would like to show you something wondrous. Something that is the physical manifestation-" she glanced quickly at Keith then back to the others, "-of my bond with Blue Lion."
All eyes were fixed upon Allura as she reached beneath her collar to grasp the thin chain of her necklace. Gasps were heard as she gently pulled the stunning sapphire stone into view. She settled it against her collarbone and adjusted the chain so it lay flat around her neck. The gleaming golden lion head shone brightly upon the backdrop of blue, its glow reminiscent of sunlight reflecting on the surface of water.
Coran leaned forward, his eyes filled with amazement, and his face flooded with color. His hand extended, as if it longed to touch the stone. "Magnificent." He breathed. "I...I hoped...but never thought I would see it again in my lifetime."
Allura's smile was tremulous. "Do you think she approves?"
Her Guardian sat back, hand falling to his side, while his eyes glimmered with tears. "Oh yes. Heavens, yes."
Realizing that a hush had fallen over the room, Allura looked at her teammates, taking in expressions that ranged from empathetic to awe. "As Keith has told you, we now know my mother was the pilot of Blue Lion and that she died defending her realm. Blue Lion has given me the same amulet she wore as a symbol of our own bonding."
"That's real beautiful, Princess." Hunk said gruffly.
Pidge swiped a finger under his glasses. "It's perfect."
"Keith, you said that Varten Carlac gave you the Black Amulet." Lance said. "If you're wearing it, could we see it?"
Keith's reply was to draw forth the amulet. The gold lion's head flashed, and the polished surface of the onyx shone with black fire. The power it exuded was palpable to every onlooker.
The appearance of the Black Lion bond stone had sparked a surge of power in the Blue Lion sapphire that Allura felt most keenly. It subsided, and then surged again. To her relief it wasn't sexual, but rather like a poke or nudge, she thought with a slight tinge of amusement. Was it trying to get her attention? Was it a sign of approval and a cue to let the others know that a lion bond could be theirs as well?
Lance looked from stone to stone, mouth hanging open, before saying, "can anyone else feel that energy current? Or has my imagination run away with me?"
"No! It's there! It's the link," Allura assured him. "With the power of the stone, and with your permission, I'd like to try and connect with you, Pidge and Hunk on a deeper level. As in my mind to your minds," she added hastily, seeing sparks of mischief flare in the Red Lion pilot's eyes.
"Will it hurt?" Pidge asked.
"It isn't painful, but it can be somewhat...intense."
"Is it like being hypnotized?" Hunk asked.
"No. Relaxing is part of it, but you'll be yourself and in charge at all times."
"But we'll feel things." Lance stated.
"Yes. But I can't say what. It depends on you." She cast a sideways glance at Keith, who was tight-lipped but calm, to Coran, who nodded approvingly, and then back to her three teammates. "It is entirely up to you boys. I will not force you to try it if you're not ready."
Hunk was the first to speak. "I don't know what to do, but I'm good with trying it." He grinned at Allura. "But if you happen to run across the secret location of my candy stash, you gotta swear not to say anything."
She laughed. "It doesn't really work like that, I don't think. But just in case, you have my word."
"I'm in." Pidge stated. "I have nothing to hide."
Lance shrugged. "I don't know that it'll work with me, but go ahead."
Allura nodded. "It may not work, but I thank you all for trusting me enough to let me try. Try to relax and keep your minds open."
Gripping her amulet, she closed her eyes and followed her own instructions, forcing herself to empty her mind of distractions, and concentrate on her warm feelings for the friends standing before her. She wouldn't expect much. Even the briefest connection would be a success.
His gaze traveled around the room, meeting the sober expressions of each of his teammates. Was he so insecure that he'd deny them the privilege of learning about the lion bonds? The heaviness of the stone around his neck bore witness that it was a necessary risk. For them to believe, there had to be trust. For there to be trust, the ability to link had to be shown as truth.
He gave a curt nod, a silent acknowledgment to proceed. The Princess quickly stood up.
"My dear friends, I would like to show you something wondrous. Something that is the physical manifestation-" she glanced quickly at Keith then back to the others, "-of my bond with Blue Lion."
All eyes were fixed upon Allura as she reached beneath her collar to grasp the thin chain of her necklace. Gasps were heard as she gently pulled the stunning sapphire stone into view. She settled it against her collarbone and adjusted the chain so it lay flat around her neck. The gleaming golden lion head shone brightly upon the backdrop of blue, its glow reminiscent of sunlight reflecting on the surface of water.
Coran leaned forward, his eyes filled with amazement, and his face flooded with color. His hand extended, as if it longed to touch the stone. "Magnificent." He breathed. "I...I hoped...but never thought I would see it again in my lifetime."
Allura's smile was tremulous. "Do you think she approves?"
Her Guardian sat back, hand falling to his side, while his eyes glimmered with tears. "Oh yes. Heavens, yes."
Realizing that a hush had fallen over the room, Allura looked at her teammates, taking in expressions that ranged from empathetic to awe. "As Keith has told you, we now know my mother was the pilot of Blue Lion and that she died defending her realm. Blue Lion has given me the same amulet she wore as a symbol of our own bonding."
"That's real beautiful, Princess." Hunk said gruffly.
Pidge swiped a finger under his glasses. "It's perfect."
"Keith, you said that Varten Carlac gave you the Black Amulet." Lance said. "If you're wearing it, could we see it?"
Keith's reply was to draw forth the amulet. The gold lion's head flashed, and the polished surface of the onyx shone with black fire. The power it exuded was palpable to every onlooker.
The appearance of the Black Lion bond stone had sparked a surge of power in the Blue Lion sapphire that Allura felt most keenly. It subsided, and then surged again. To her relief it wasn't sexual, but rather like a poke or nudge, she thought with a slight tinge of amusement. Was it trying to get her attention? Was it a sign of approval and a cue to let the others know that a lion bond could be theirs as well?
Lance looked from stone to stone, mouth hanging open, before saying, "can anyone else feel that energy current? Or has my imagination run away with me?"
"No! It's there! It's the link," Allura assured him. "With the power of the stone, and with your permission, I'd like to try and connect with you, Pidge and Hunk on a deeper level. As in my mind to your minds," she added hastily, seeing sparks of mischief flare in the Red Lion pilot's eyes.
"Will it hurt?" Pidge asked.
"It isn't painful, but it can be somewhat...intense."
"Is it like being hypnotized?" Hunk asked.
"No. Relaxing is part of it, but you'll be yourself and in charge at all times."
"But we'll feel things." Lance stated.
"Yes. But I can't say what. It depends on you." She cast a sideways glance at Keith, who was tight-lipped but calm, to Coran, who nodded approvingly, and then back to her three teammates. "It is entirely up to you boys. I will not force you to try it if you're not ready."
Hunk was the first to speak. "I don't know what to do, but I'm good with trying it." He grinned at Allura. "But if you happen to run across the secret location of my candy stash, you gotta swear not to say anything."
She laughed. "It doesn't really work like that, I don't think. But just in case, you have my word."
"I'm in." Pidge stated. "I have nothing to hide."
Lance shrugged. "I don't know that it'll work with me, but go ahead."
Allura nodded. "It may not work, but I thank you all for trusting me enough to let me try. Try to relax and keep your minds open."
Gripping her amulet, she closed her eyes and followed her own instructions, forcing herself to empty her mind of distractions, and concentrate on her warm feelings for the friends standing before her. She wouldn't expect much. Even the briefest connection would be a success.
At first she saw nothing but fog. She attempted to reach into the cloud, but it felt solid as a wall. No one there yet. Refusing to give in, she grasped her bond-stone in both hands, and tried again, projecting love and peaceful intent within her mind as she reached out into the thick mist in search of a psyche. It was like hanging from a trapeze in midair, wondering if anyone would find her.
Then she felt a touch, and then a wave of gratitude as a psychic hand engulfed hers and pulled her forward. The aura the hand exuded was earthy, full of raw power, and yet was kind and gentle. She smiled as she acknowledged Hunk's presence, sending her emotion as the gentle sustenance of a creek flowing next to a high earthen bank. Hunk's eyes widened. "Oh. I can feel it! It's her..." In his surprise, he allowed the stream of gentle consciousness to slip away, and cursed aloud as it left.
Moving on, Allura felt a refreshing swirl of breeze, dancing close enough to be harnessed, before changing direction in a gust that hinted at the latent force of a cyclone. Allura smiled. Ah, yes, this would be Pidge...as a greeting, she sent a misty rain to mingle and dance with the wind.
Pidge made an involuntary sound that fell somewhere between a gasp and a giggle. Red faced, his wide eyes sought Keith, mutely questioning him if what he felt had happened.
Keith nodded, his expression wry.
After gently releasing Pidge from their connection, Allura moved on to the next sensation that rose to meet her. It was not gentle or whimsical. It burned into her cortex. She fought back, parried the thrust with flowing currents of tranquility from the depths of her psyche, believing with her entire being that the deeply passionate nature of Red Lion was as tender as it was fierce.
Then she felt a touch, and then a wave of gratitude as a psychic hand engulfed hers and pulled her forward. The aura the hand exuded was earthy, full of raw power, and yet was kind and gentle. She smiled as she acknowledged Hunk's presence, sending her emotion as the gentle sustenance of a creek flowing next to a high earthen bank. Hunk's eyes widened. "Oh. I can feel it! It's her..." In his surprise, he allowed the stream of gentle consciousness to slip away, and cursed aloud as it left.
Moving on, Allura felt a refreshing swirl of breeze, dancing close enough to be harnessed, before changing direction in a gust that hinted at the latent force of a cyclone. Allura smiled. Ah, yes, this would be Pidge...as a greeting, she sent a misty rain to mingle and dance with the wind.
Pidge made an involuntary sound that fell somewhere between a gasp and a giggle. Red faced, his wide eyes sought Keith, mutely questioning him if what he felt had happened.
Keith nodded, his expression wry.
After gently releasing Pidge from their connection, Allura moved on to the next sensation that rose to meet her. It was not gentle or whimsical. It burned into her cortex. She fought back, parried the thrust with flowing currents of tranquility from the depths of her psyche, believing with her entire being that the deeply passionate nature of Red Lion was as tender as it was fierce.
Lance was shocked by the ferocity of the emotions that raged within him. He'd suppressed or declined to acknowledge what had only plagued him in his dreams up until now, shrugging them off with the rationale that hot blooded fierceness and a strong survival instinct was all a part of being a pilot of Red Lion. Those traits were no reason for alarm unless primal instinct was in danger of overruling reason and logic. Like now.
For the first time, he was afraid he was in danger of losing control. This intimate connection with Allura was putting cracks in his armor, threatening to unleash raw feelings he'd carefully tamped down. Exposure was to be fought at all costs.
And so he battled, seeking to build a wall against the fires of baser instinct. The struggle grew desperate; he was slipping... and then a wave of calm descended; a waterfall of reassurance and calm serenity that doused any need to lash out. Under the onslaught, the fire he brought gentled, its heat becoming a warm caress. His tensed muscles slowly relaxed and his mind quieted. The Princess was there in his mind, soothing him, loving him, giving him peace. He took in what she gave, savored it, let it soak to the marrow of his bones. It could have been a minute, or an eternity before he sensed he was losing himself to something he could never have. He forced himself to let the feeling -and her- go, though it felt like a sudden punch in the gut.
For the first time, he was afraid he was in danger of losing control. This intimate connection with Allura was putting cracks in his armor, threatening to unleash raw feelings he'd carefully tamped down. Exposure was to be fought at all costs.
And so he battled, seeking to build a wall against the fires of baser instinct. The struggle grew desperate; he was slipping... and then a wave of calm descended; a waterfall of reassurance and calm serenity that doused any need to lash out. Under the onslaught, the fire he brought gentled, its heat becoming a warm caress. His tensed muscles slowly relaxed and his mind quieted. The Princess was there in his mind, soothing him, loving him, giving him peace. He took in what she gave, savored it, let it soak to the marrow of his bones. It could have been a minute, or an eternity before he sensed he was losing himself to something he could never have. He forced himself to let the feeling -and her- go, though it felt like a sudden punch in the gut.
Trembling internally, Allura broke eye contact with Lance. The leaping, roaring flame of emotion- raw yearning mixed with torrid desire- that had emanated from him had come close to consuming her. Once the fire was unleashed, she'd wanted to run from the connection, but she'd hung on, ferociously determined not to lose herself or him through unpremeditated, irrational fear. Control had been achieved, but she'd not wanted to risk letting go even then. If truth be told, in the end he'd been the one to push her away.
Whatever it was that Lance wanted at that moment, he hadn't wanted her to know what it was. She had felt something burning within him, a desperation and a longing for something he wanted with every fiber of his being. Such intensity and passion was well suited to the Lion Warrior of Fire, but with that passion came the dread of having emotions laid bare to another. Would fear of exposing what he saw as a vulnerability prevent him from bonding with Red Lion?
She became aware that Keith was looking at her, and without thinking, she sought comfort from him through their bond. Once again, sexual overtones were absent. The need for reassurance was stronger, and she was thankful for the affirmation she'd not lost perspective dabbling in the emotions of others. Relief came as his presence wrapped around her like a blanket warding off a chill. While she basked in the enveloping warmth and protection, she sat down and deliberately unclasped the stone.
After a minute, she felt Keith withdrawing, and her mind was hers alone.
"Are you all right, Allura?" Coran asked with concern.
"Yes, I'm fine. It's just a bit tiring. Are you boys all right? Any ill effects?" A chorus of 'are you kidding, of course we're all right' style affirmations made her smile.
"So now you all have a bit of understanding of what having a psychic connection is like." Keith said to the three pilots. "And that it isn't for those who aren't completely open to it."
Lance frowned, but his head nodded in unison with the others.
"What about Keith? Can we connect with him too?" Pidge asked.
Allura spoke up. "I'm certain you could. I thought one step at a time is best. My hope is that since you were able to connect with me, knowing what it's like will make connecting to your lions easier."
"I'm more than ready to do one of those vision quests thingies," Hunk declared. "So am I!" Pidge agreed. "If I can connect with Red Lion on a metaphysical plane, it would give me a huge advantage in any battle for sure." Lance said. "And if the five of us have the ability to be psychically joined, I bet it'll make Voltron that much stronger."
Coran got to his feet. "That is an excellent point, Lance, and I surmise it would require all five of you to return to Althene. I'll contact Governor Carlac for specifics. We will have to plan carefully so as not to jeopardize the security of this planet."
Keith turned to the older man. "If their vision quests are successful and all of us are bonded with the lion ships, do you think it means Zarkon and Lotor will finally be history?"
"Remember the truce." Allura spoke up, with gentle rebuke. "We don't go starting fights."
"We won't, Princess. But you can bet they'll forget about the truce as soon as they replenish their arms and lazon supplies." Keith replied grimly.
"Then there's no time to waste." She looked sad but determined.
Coran nodded. "I'll get to work then. If anyone has questions, bring them to our next meeting."
"Lion practice at eight o' clock tomorrow." Keith said, and then, as the others departed, called out. "Coran, do you have a moment?"
Whatever it was that Lance wanted at that moment, he hadn't wanted her to know what it was. She had felt something burning within him, a desperation and a longing for something he wanted with every fiber of his being. Such intensity and passion was well suited to the Lion Warrior of Fire, but with that passion came the dread of having emotions laid bare to another. Would fear of exposing what he saw as a vulnerability prevent him from bonding with Red Lion?
She became aware that Keith was looking at her, and without thinking, she sought comfort from him through their bond. Once again, sexual overtones were absent. The need for reassurance was stronger, and she was thankful for the affirmation she'd not lost perspective dabbling in the emotions of others. Relief came as his presence wrapped around her like a blanket warding off a chill. While she basked in the enveloping warmth and protection, she sat down and deliberately unclasped the stone.
After a minute, she felt Keith withdrawing, and her mind was hers alone.
"Are you all right, Allura?" Coran asked with concern.
"Yes, I'm fine. It's just a bit tiring. Are you boys all right? Any ill effects?" A chorus of 'are you kidding, of course we're all right' style affirmations made her smile.
"So now you all have a bit of understanding of what having a psychic connection is like." Keith said to the three pilots. "And that it isn't for those who aren't completely open to it."
Lance frowned, but his head nodded in unison with the others.
"What about Keith? Can we connect with him too?" Pidge asked.
Allura spoke up. "I'm certain you could. I thought one step at a time is best. My hope is that since you were able to connect with me, knowing what it's like will make connecting to your lions easier."
"I'm more than ready to do one of those vision quests thingies," Hunk declared. "So am I!" Pidge agreed. "If I can connect with Red Lion on a metaphysical plane, it would give me a huge advantage in any battle for sure." Lance said. "And if the five of us have the ability to be psychically joined, I bet it'll make Voltron that much stronger."
Coran got to his feet. "That is an excellent point, Lance, and I surmise it would require all five of you to return to Althene. I'll contact Governor Carlac for specifics. We will have to plan carefully so as not to jeopardize the security of this planet."
Keith turned to the older man. "If their vision quests are successful and all of us are bonded with the lion ships, do you think it means Zarkon and Lotor will finally be history?"
"Remember the truce." Allura spoke up, with gentle rebuke. "We don't go starting fights."
"We won't, Princess. But you can bet they'll forget about the truce as soon as they replenish their arms and lazon supplies." Keith replied grimly.
"Then there's no time to waste." She looked sad but determined.
Coran nodded. "I'll get to work then. If anyone has questions, bring them to our next meeting."
"Lion practice at eight o' clock tomorrow." Keith said, and then, as the others departed, called out. "Coran, do you have a moment?"
He'd almost been out the door, but hearing his name called, the Royal Advisor halted in place and waited as the others filed past him. "Captain? What can I do for you?"
"Mostly just listen, I guess."
"All right. I'm listening."
Keith cleared his throat. "First, I just wanted to say that I have the utmost respect for you as the Princess's guardian, sir. In the interest of that respect, and full disclosure, I feel should tell you that I did not give a complete accounting of everything that happened during the bonding with Allura, myself and the lions."
Coran's eyebrows lifted. "I assume you have a valid reason."
"Yes sir."
"Was she in mortal peril?"
Keith immediately shook his head. "She was safe at all times. Just not always...in control." He reddened. "I mean...she was feeling things that were not in her realm of experience..."
"So you're saying that what you omitted was done out of concern for her virtuous reputation?"
The Captain's face reddened even more. "Yes. But she's not...we weren't...I mean, her virtue hasn't been compromised! It was part of the ritual we consented to. Honestly, we had no idea that the lion bonding between Blue and Black involved a psychic exchange of feelings that were...uh..."
"Of a supremely personal nature?" Coran supplied helpfully, as the young man fumbled for words.
"Yes. I didn't think it was necessary or appropriate to be sharing those details with the others at this time...but...maybe I should, because it could happen to them when and if they bond." Keith ruffled the hair on the back of his head with one hand, a gesture that the Royal Advisor had observed whenever the Captain was ill at ease. "In any case, I hope you understand why I held back information and that you still trust me around Allura."
Though he knew what he was going to say, Coran took a moment in order to weigh his response.
As an Arusian empath, he sensed the sincerity and earnestness of the young man before him. But even if he couldn't, being chosen as heir to Black Lion was sufficient and irrefutable proof that Keith not only had the heart of a champion, but that he was worthy match for the Princess. Unfortunately, that fact and his personal vouching for Keith were only small stepping stones in what was sure to be a very bumpy crossing over troubled waters of public opinion, including that of Galaxy Garrison.
No matter, of course. As Royal Advisor, he didn't take controversial stances often or lightly. But controversy should not be a deterrent to doing the right thing. He'd dealt with many highly sensitive diplomatic situations, and this would be no different. Giving Keith his verbal seal of approval was a given- he owed him that, and so much more. The whole planet did.
The young man was trying his best not to show any hint of his emotions. But the bit of tightness in his face and the glimmer of dark defiance in his eyes was a giveaway. Clearly, this Lion Warrior was not about to relinquish his love without a fight. Coran found that kind of resolve quite pleasing in one so young. For that matter, all five Space Explorers, Sven included, had shown him in their own ways that chivalry was not dead and gone, it just came in different guises.
To be young and in love was a powerful thing. He trusted that power would be used for good.
"You have my complete confidence, Keith, and I have no qualms about your decision making regarding your relationship with Allura thus far. For what it's worth, it truly gladdens me to know she has bonded with a fine young man like you. And now, if you'll excuse me, I have some comm calls to make..."
With quick salute and a smile, Coran departed, leaving Keith to stare after him.
"Mostly just listen, I guess."
"All right. I'm listening."
Keith cleared his throat. "First, I just wanted to say that I have the utmost respect for you as the Princess's guardian, sir. In the interest of that respect, and full disclosure, I feel should tell you that I did not give a complete accounting of everything that happened during the bonding with Allura, myself and the lions."
Coran's eyebrows lifted. "I assume you have a valid reason."
"Yes sir."
"Was she in mortal peril?"
Keith immediately shook his head. "She was safe at all times. Just not always...in control." He reddened. "I mean...she was feeling things that were not in her realm of experience..."
"So you're saying that what you omitted was done out of concern for her virtuous reputation?"
The Captain's face reddened even more. "Yes. But she's not...we weren't...I mean, her virtue hasn't been compromised! It was part of the ritual we consented to. Honestly, we had no idea that the lion bonding between Blue and Black involved a psychic exchange of feelings that were...uh..."
"Of a supremely personal nature?" Coran supplied helpfully, as the young man fumbled for words.
"Yes. I didn't think it was necessary or appropriate to be sharing those details with the others at this time...but...maybe I should, because it could happen to them when and if they bond." Keith ruffled the hair on the back of his head with one hand, a gesture that the Royal Advisor had observed whenever the Captain was ill at ease. "In any case, I hope you understand why I held back information and that you still trust me around Allura."
Though he knew what he was going to say, Coran took a moment in order to weigh his response.
As an Arusian empath, he sensed the sincerity and earnestness of the young man before him. But even if he couldn't, being chosen as heir to Black Lion was sufficient and irrefutable proof that Keith not only had the heart of a champion, but that he was worthy match for the Princess. Unfortunately, that fact and his personal vouching for Keith were only small stepping stones in what was sure to be a very bumpy crossing over troubled waters of public opinion, including that of Galaxy Garrison.
No matter, of course. As Royal Advisor, he didn't take controversial stances often or lightly. But controversy should not be a deterrent to doing the right thing. He'd dealt with many highly sensitive diplomatic situations, and this would be no different. Giving Keith his verbal seal of approval was a given- he owed him that, and so much more. The whole planet did.
The young man was trying his best not to show any hint of his emotions. But the bit of tightness in his face and the glimmer of dark defiance in his eyes was a giveaway. Clearly, this Lion Warrior was not about to relinquish his love without a fight. Coran found that kind of resolve quite pleasing in one so young. For that matter, all five Space Explorers, Sven included, had shown him in their own ways that chivalry was not dead and gone, it just came in different guises.
To be young and in love was a powerful thing. He trusted that power would be used for good.
"You have my complete confidence, Keith, and I have no qualms about your decision making regarding your relationship with Allura thus far. For what it's worth, it truly gladdens me to know she has bonded with a fine young man like you. And now, if you'll excuse me, I have some comm calls to make..."
With quick salute and a smile, Coran departed, leaving Keith to stare after him.
Author's Note: A shout out and a big hug to my awesome beta Shannon, aka KittyShan, aka Lance's Kitten. She's the best beta and a damn good writer. Do yourself a favor and read her stories. :)
Can We Talk?
The freshly waxed castle corridor was deserted, save for the mouse whose paws skidded while he scampered to an air duct often used as a shortcut to Princess Allura's bedroom.
Cheddar had planned to stay for the entire team meeting, but the young ones had gotten hungry and restless. Given the serious demeanor of the humans, what was being said, and the psychic vibrations in the air, he and Cheesy had decided it was best to keep the antics of their children from disturbing the proceedings, and had taken them away to the kitchen for a little snack.
It would have been a quick trip, but children would be children, and of course they strayed off the path with their shenanigans. By the time they were rounded up and fed, the meeting had finished, and it had been too late to gather any insights for his mistress.
It was his one regret about having a full tummy.
His Princess relied on his instincts. Despite not being in the meeting, fate had decreed he could still be of help to the team on this day. His tardiness had put him in a unique position to see a very strange shadow sliding along the wall outside where the humans had held their meeting. It had not been detected by the team or security or the alarms would have sounded.
A shadow in itself wasn't necessarily a concern and could have a benign explanation. But there was something eerie about it. It moved like it had a purpose. It had to be aware of the basics of stealth if it had waited to come out when no one was around. Cheddar, being tiny and quick, had probably escaped its notice. If not, whatever it was hadn't done its homework if it wasn't worried about being spotted by a space mouse!
This was a mistake many other intrusive devices and creatures had made. Cheddar's space mouse senses were honed and formidable, and unfailing in detecting things that were out of the ordinary. His ample experience in doing so had thwarted past plots to penetrate castle security.
Cheddar's red eyes focused on the shadow which had stopped, turned wispy, and now was seeping into a crack in the floor. The heat signature it left lacked the aura or feel of malevolent magic. But it had to have an agenda, given its deliberate movements and progression down the corridor.
He must warn the Princess.
He found the opening to the ventilation system and scooted through it until he was standing in front of a particular vent that offered a mouse size window into Princess Allura's chambers. She was there, golden hair shining like a beacon through the newly added bars to the duct cover. The castle technicians kept installing them in hopes of dissuading the mice from using the infrastructure of the castle for their personal playground.
They were fated to be disappointed once again.
Squeaking out a greeting, Cheddar ran his claws across the slots, intending to make his presence known to his Princess before setting to work chewing through the screws that held the cover in place.
The freshly waxed castle corridor was deserted, save for the mouse whose paws skidded while he scampered to an air duct often used as a shortcut to Princess Allura's bedroom.
Cheddar had planned to stay for the entire team meeting, but the young ones had gotten hungry and restless. Given the serious demeanor of the humans, what was being said, and the psychic vibrations in the air, he and Cheesy had decided it was best to keep the antics of their children from disturbing the proceedings, and had taken them away to the kitchen for a little snack.
It would have been a quick trip, but children would be children, and of course they strayed off the path with their shenanigans. By the time they were rounded up and fed, the meeting had finished, and it had been too late to gather any insights for his mistress.
It was his one regret about having a full tummy.
His Princess relied on his instincts. Despite not being in the meeting, fate had decreed he could still be of help to the team on this day. His tardiness had put him in a unique position to see a very strange shadow sliding along the wall outside where the humans had held their meeting. It had not been detected by the team or security or the alarms would have sounded.
A shadow in itself wasn't necessarily a concern and could have a benign explanation. But there was something eerie about it. It moved like it had a purpose. It had to be aware of the basics of stealth if it had waited to come out when no one was around. Cheddar, being tiny and quick, had probably escaped its notice. If not, whatever it was hadn't done its homework if it wasn't worried about being spotted by a space mouse!
This was a mistake many other intrusive devices and creatures had made. Cheddar's space mouse senses were honed and formidable, and unfailing in detecting things that were out of the ordinary. His ample experience in doing so had thwarted past plots to penetrate castle security.
Cheddar's red eyes focused on the shadow which had stopped, turned wispy, and now was seeping into a crack in the floor. The heat signature it left lacked the aura or feel of malevolent magic. But it had to have an agenda, given its deliberate movements and progression down the corridor.
He must warn the Princess.
He found the opening to the ventilation system and scooted through it until he was standing in front of a particular vent that offered a mouse size window into Princess Allura's chambers. She was there, golden hair shining like a beacon through the newly added bars to the duct cover. The castle technicians kept installing them in hopes of dissuading the mice from using the infrastructure of the castle for their personal playground.
They were fated to be disappointed once again.
Squeaking out a greeting, Cheddar ran his claws across the slots, intending to make his presence known to his Princess before setting to work chewing through the screws that held the cover in place.
Allura had just seated herself in a chaise recliner, and looked up from her book of poetry at the faint squeaking and scratching noises. "Cheddar? Is that you?"
Her reply was a creak of metal alloy as the duct cover was pushed forward. A final push, and it broke free and sailed to the floor, a mouse riding atop as if it were a surf board.
"Cheddar, honestly! That's the third time this month! What am I going to tell the maintenance crew?"
The Princess's rebuke was tempered by her smile as the determined little rodent chirped an apology. "All right, I'm sure you have a good reason. What brings you here?"
She held out a hand, and the mouse ran to her, using it as a springboard to his favorite perch on her shoulder. Paws flailed dramatically and whiskers wiggled as he chattered.
"You saw something outside the control room?" The Princess asked, her smile disappearing."A ghost? No! A moving shadow?" She listened to the reply of chirps and squeaks with a furrowed brow, understanding them completely. "You think it's an intruder? But wouldn't our new sensors have picked up-"
She broke off as the chattering of her tiny champion became insistent. "I believe you, little friend- your senses do pick up what is masked from our technology. It's best to investigate."
Cheddar's squeaks held authority.
"I agree, and I'm going to call him at once!" Allura assured him. "Thank you, Cheddar! You are very brave, and I always rely on you to help keep us safe."
Looking pleased and relieved, the mouse folded his fore paws and bowed.
Her reply was a creak of metal alloy as the duct cover was pushed forward. A final push, and it broke free and sailed to the floor, a mouse riding atop as if it were a surf board.
"Cheddar, honestly! That's the third time this month! What am I going to tell the maintenance crew?"
The Princess's rebuke was tempered by her smile as the determined little rodent chirped an apology. "All right, I'm sure you have a good reason. What brings you here?"
She held out a hand, and the mouse ran to her, using it as a springboard to his favorite perch on her shoulder. Paws flailed dramatically and whiskers wiggled as he chattered.
"You saw something outside the control room?" The Princess asked, her smile disappearing."A ghost? No! A moving shadow?" She listened to the reply of chirps and squeaks with a furrowed brow, understanding them completely. "You think it's an intruder? But wouldn't our new sensors have picked up-"
She broke off as the chattering of her tiny champion became insistent. "I believe you, little friend- your senses do pick up what is masked from our technology. It's best to investigate."
Cheddar's squeaks held authority.
"I agree, and I'm going to call him at once!" Allura assured him. "Thank you, Cheddar! You are very brave, and I always rely on you to help keep us safe."
Looking pleased and relieved, the mouse folded his fore paws and bowed.
Lance meandered down the maze of corridors leading to his quarters in a preoccupied state of mind.
The sensation of Allura's presence within him lingered enticingly, much like the scent of her perfume.
The mingling of their thoughts had been stunning. Powerful. Unprecedented in scope of anything in his experience.
And, if he were totally honest, he'd been aroused as all get out by it.
From the day he'd first met Allura, she'd cut a swath through his cynical bravado to expose the hidden aspects of his character. With one smile and a haunted look of appeal in tear-filled eyes, she had commanded his noblest aspirations and a fierce determination to help. That fateful day, he'd been moved by her sincerity, her innate goodness, and her story of survival against all odds.
Admiration had grown into liking her even more after discovering she was a flawed and complex human being. Her audacity and utter lack of guile both vexed and pleased him. The fear of losing her in battle had made him extra hard on her in training. But, outside of that dynamic, he also liked to tease her and ruffle her feathers any way he could, the classic schoolboy on the playground picking on a girl because he liked her and was out of sorts about it.
She'd taken his crap and sometimes even returned it. She had rewarded him with chaste kisses on the cheek, and tempered his sharp observations with her sweetness. But her power over him was as seductive as it was innocent. She ran with lions, but was unaware of the passion she inspired in them.
Courage, understanding, compassion, honor, determination. She was a beauty, inside and out, she had everything a man could want. She'd accepted him as a dear friend, smart mouth and all. Getting her trust was a special gift- one that he now saw himself unworthy of, considering the carnal nature of his emotions towards her during their mind link.
The intimacy of merging, having her so close, had bared the truth of what he'd failed to see. In this everyday guise of being her friend, he had not realized the depth of his desire to be more than a knight in shining armor.
The flow of her thoughts, the unconditional acceptance of his elemental nature was what he had needed and now craved. She was soothing and sensual...rivulets of water gently encircling his inner fires. Their co-mingling brought a cleansing steam and penetrating heat. The caress of her essence carried him to a precipice from which he'd pulled back before he disgraced himself by acting on impulse and instinct.
Lance's mouth compressed. He knew he'd hurt her by rejecting the link so abruptly, but he'd had no choice. She'd gotten too close, and he had too much to lose by allowing her to see it.
The Fearless One must have handled things far better. Probably. Maybe? It didn't take a mind reading to see Keith's feelings for Allura sure as hell weren't chaste. He'd seen how the Captain stared at her when he thought no one was paying attention.
In their Academy days, Keith had been very good at separating school and training work from his love life. His discipline in doing so had dashed a succession of female classmates' hopes; his dedication to duty had driven romantic prospects away. He was excellent at compartmentalizing his feelings. As a general's kid, jeopardizing rank was not an option.
That famous discipline and control had slipped with the Princess on more than a few occasions. Fear and recklessness and even anger were symptoms of involvement, and the desire to get closer. And if that man was in love ...God help him. Emotions like that could strip away masks and drive strong willed men to their knees.
He wasn't sure if it was more comforting, annoying or scary to visualize Keith's trial run at bonding with Allura as even more difficult than his own had been. And he had to wonder what would happen if Keith sensed anyone else on his team had non platonic feelings for her. Sure, it was all in the subconscious. There was a thing called free will, and the choice not to do it was what mattered.
The dilemma was not saying anything about having those sensations was essentially lying by omission to a friend-a breach of trust that could lead to disaster in regards to fighting as one in Voltron. But wouldn't telling Keith flat out what he'd felt in that link also be betraying a trust?
Talk about a headache. Real life interactions could be complicated, but they were a walk in the park compared to psychic ones.
Shaking his head, Lance turned another corner.
It was cliché, but when it came to interacting with Keith and Allura, he honestly tended to think of himself as the sidekick second banana in a love story of star crossed lovers. Keith was his best friend, and he loved Allura, and she most definitely had it bad for Keith. He was the man in the middle, and the one to make it happen.
It was high time for the two of them to quit dancing around the obvious and just get together. Though there was no overt show of closeness, there was something between them, an air about them that made it clear that lion bonding hadn't been the only changes that happened while they were away.
They needed someone to give that proverbial push. The completion of the picture album lying in his desk drawer would be that, the final stage of his plan to get them to the altar before Prince Lotor or some other douche tank with aspirations of royal marital bliss showed up to interfere.
Pictures and a wedding; the idea popped into his head like a flashbulb going off. There was a wedding going down, and as the official photographer, he could get pictures of Allura and Keith without suspicion! It was the perfect excuse to use to ask Keith if he'd take over for him as escort for the Princess. Putting it it in a way that made it sound like a favor wouldn't be obvious, and he'd get to see the results of his plotting first hand.
That was the problem; she was too available. Once she and Keith were finally, officially a couple, he'd set aside those feelings for Allura. There would be no fuel for the fire once she belonged to someone else, and he would move on.
He'd reached his quarters, and his thoughts derailed upon finding his door already open, framing the sight of a plump female figure bustling about his room. She hadn't noticed his approach, but she was all business as she bundled up sheets stripped from his bed, threw them aside, and then began putting on new ones.
His first thought was that she'd somehow picked up on the transmissions of impure thoughts about her charge, and was here to find out if he had besmirched her reputation with his perverted way of thinking.
The second thought was that she'd gone into his personal space and was touching his possessions without asking, a thought that unfroze his voice box.
"Nanny! What the hell-"
"Lieutenant Hartwell, hello!" She acknowledged him cheerfully. "Come in please, I will state my purpose for being here, but I prefer not to be gaped at in such an unseemly fashion while doing so."
Too dumbfounded to object to the command, Lance did as she requested. His gaze fixed on a heaping plate of cookies sitting on his dresser, then shot back to her, hard with suspicion. "What's all this? Why are you in my room?"
"My apologies for not obtaining your permission, Lieutenant." She stopped just long enough to bob a half curtsy of apology, then continued to make his bed. "I haf been thinking that you haf been very good to the Princess, and I haf not always been so kind to you. I thought I will clean for you as a surprise."
"You're cleaning for me." He repeated.
Nodding and smiling at him, she picked up his pillow and briskly pummeled and plumped it, before adding, "I made those cookies just for you. I believe you are rather partial to chocolate chip?"
"They're my favorites. But that's not the point!" It was hard to be resisting the heavenly smell of the freshly baked goodies, but he managed to walk over and pull the pillow out of her hands. "Look, I don't want to be rude, but I'm not comfortable with this! Besides the fact I wasn't expecting you to invade my space, we have orders to take care of our own things- military discipline, and so on! If the guys find out you cleaned for me-if Keith finds out-"
"How vould they find out? I chose a time when they are busy!" Nanny said brightly. "I shall not tell them. I vork quickly, I vill be done and away in ten minutes."
Lance pondered. The room was neat as a pin, his laundry was folded and sitting on a chair, waiting to be put away. Thanks to the cookies, the whole place smelled great, seemed more homey. It was pretty nice not having to clean, even nicer that Nanny was offering an olive branch ...although it did make him wonder if a certain place had frozen over!
He supposed this could qualify as a minor miracle. Or the result of the right medications.
That was mean. She was trying. She had wanted to thank him, and he could accept that with the stipulation that it was a one and done. Now he could take the extra time he would have spent straightening up to arrange for Keith to take Allura to Garrett's wedding. Best to strike while the iron was hot, and while Keith was relaxed from his getaway.
"Just this once then," he said, thinking how strange it was to be objecting to having a woman who'd been the bane of his existence being nice, "it really wasn't necessary to reward me for carrying a suitcase. I appreciate that you've freed up some time for me-"
"Och, then you go along!" Nanny exclaimed warmly. "It is exactly my intention to give you some time away from chores! It is my pleasure to serve. You haf done far more than I can repay!"
He'd been given permission to bolt, but something compelled him to watch as she turned to tuck in the corners of the comforter. A frown of concern followed as he saw her head give an awkward kind of jerk, followed by another, and yet another. She kept working through each of the spasms, and he couldn't stand it any longer.
"How's your neck doing?"
"It's in good working order." Nanny's voice held an edge, but then her tone softened. "Your concern does you credit. If it will give you peace of mind, I am going to do an adjustment when I'm finished here."
Was she talking about cracking her neck again? Should he leave her alone to do that? What if she did it wrong? The recollection of her prior 'adjustment' made him cringe, but she had seemed to know exactly what she was doing. She said it helped. And he did have a mission to accomplish...
"You are not convinced, but I tell you I vill be fine." Nanny declared. Striding over to the plate, she grabbed a cookie and brought it to him. "Eat one. I vas told it's impossible to fret after one consumes premium Arusian chocolate."
As he took the cookie, bit into it, and luscious chocolate mixed with warm and crumbly dough delighted his taste buds, his eyes closed in momentary bliss.
She was right, dammit!
Decision made, he snagged another cookie and set off to find Keith, right after offering the Royal Governess his thanks and an uncharacteristically cordial farewell.
The sensation of Allura's presence within him lingered enticingly, much like the scent of her perfume.
The mingling of their thoughts had been stunning. Powerful. Unprecedented in scope of anything in his experience.
And, if he were totally honest, he'd been aroused as all get out by it.
From the day he'd first met Allura, she'd cut a swath through his cynical bravado to expose the hidden aspects of his character. With one smile and a haunted look of appeal in tear-filled eyes, she had commanded his noblest aspirations and a fierce determination to help. That fateful day, he'd been moved by her sincerity, her innate goodness, and her story of survival against all odds.
Admiration had grown into liking her even more after discovering she was a flawed and complex human being. Her audacity and utter lack of guile both vexed and pleased him. The fear of losing her in battle had made him extra hard on her in training. But, outside of that dynamic, he also liked to tease her and ruffle her feathers any way he could, the classic schoolboy on the playground picking on a girl because he liked her and was out of sorts about it.
She'd taken his crap and sometimes even returned it. She had rewarded him with chaste kisses on the cheek, and tempered his sharp observations with her sweetness. But her power over him was as seductive as it was innocent. She ran with lions, but was unaware of the passion she inspired in them.
Courage, understanding, compassion, honor, determination. She was a beauty, inside and out, she had everything a man could want. She'd accepted him as a dear friend, smart mouth and all. Getting her trust was a special gift- one that he now saw himself unworthy of, considering the carnal nature of his emotions towards her during their mind link.
The intimacy of merging, having her so close, had bared the truth of what he'd failed to see. In this everyday guise of being her friend, he had not realized the depth of his desire to be more than a knight in shining armor.
The flow of her thoughts, the unconditional acceptance of his elemental nature was what he had needed and now craved. She was soothing and sensual...rivulets of water gently encircling his inner fires. Their co-mingling brought a cleansing steam and penetrating heat. The caress of her essence carried him to a precipice from which he'd pulled back before he disgraced himself by acting on impulse and instinct.
Lance's mouth compressed. He knew he'd hurt her by rejecting the link so abruptly, but he'd had no choice. She'd gotten too close, and he had too much to lose by allowing her to see it.
The Fearless One must have handled things far better. Probably. Maybe? It didn't take a mind reading to see Keith's feelings for Allura sure as hell weren't chaste. He'd seen how the Captain stared at her when he thought no one was paying attention.
In their Academy days, Keith had been very good at separating school and training work from his love life. His discipline in doing so had dashed a succession of female classmates' hopes; his dedication to duty had driven romantic prospects away. He was excellent at compartmentalizing his feelings. As a general's kid, jeopardizing rank was not an option.
That famous discipline and control had slipped with the Princess on more than a few occasions. Fear and recklessness and even anger were symptoms of involvement, and the desire to get closer. And if that man was in love ...God help him. Emotions like that could strip away masks and drive strong willed men to their knees.
He wasn't sure if it was more comforting, annoying or scary to visualize Keith's trial run at bonding with Allura as even more difficult than his own had been. And he had to wonder what would happen if Keith sensed anyone else on his team had non platonic feelings for her. Sure, it was all in the subconscious. There was a thing called free will, and the choice not to do it was what mattered.
The dilemma was not saying anything about having those sensations was essentially lying by omission to a friend-a breach of trust that could lead to disaster in regards to fighting as one in Voltron. But wouldn't telling Keith flat out what he'd felt in that link also be betraying a trust?
Talk about a headache. Real life interactions could be complicated, but they were a walk in the park compared to psychic ones.
Shaking his head, Lance turned another corner.
It was cliché, but when it came to interacting with Keith and Allura, he honestly tended to think of himself as the sidekick second banana in a love story of star crossed lovers. Keith was his best friend, and he loved Allura, and she most definitely had it bad for Keith. He was the man in the middle, and the one to make it happen.
It was high time for the two of them to quit dancing around the obvious and just get together. Though there was no overt show of closeness, there was something between them, an air about them that made it clear that lion bonding hadn't been the only changes that happened while they were away.
They needed someone to give that proverbial push. The completion of the picture album lying in his desk drawer would be that, the final stage of his plan to get them to the altar before Prince Lotor or some other douche tank with aspirations of royal marital bliss showed up to interfere.
Pictures and a wedding; the idea popped into his head like a flashbulb going off. There was a wedding going down, and as the official photographer, he could get pictures of Allura and Keith without suspicion! It was the perfect excuse to use to ask Keith if he'd take over for him as escort for the Princess. Putting it it in a way that made it sound like a favor wouldn't be obvious, and he'd get to see the results of his plotting first hand.
That was the problem; she was too available. Once she and Keith were finally, officially a couple, he'd set aside those feelings for Allura. There would be no fuel for the fire once she belonged to someone else, and he would move on.
He'd reached his quarters, and his thoughts derailed upon finding his door already open, framing the sight of a plump female figure bustling about his room. She hadn't noticed his approach, but she was all business as she bundled up sheets stripped from his bed, threw them aside, and then began putting on new ones.
His first thought was that she'd somehow picked up on the transmissions of impure thoughts about her charge, and was here to find out if he had besmirched her reputation with his perverted way of thinking.
The second thought was that she'd gone into his personal space and was touching his possessions without asking, a thought that unfroze his voice box.
"Nanny! What the hell-"
"Lieutenant Hartwell, hello!" She acknowledged him cheerfully. "Come in please, I will state my purpose for being here, but I prefer not to be gaped at in such an unseemly fashion while doing so."
Too dumbfounded to object to the command, Lance did as she requested. His gaze fixed on a heaping plate of cookies sitting on his dresser, then shot back to her, hard with suspicion. "What's all this? Why are you in my room?"
"My apologies for not obtaining your permission, Lieutenant." She stopped just long enough to bob a half curtsy of apology, then continued to make his bed. "I haf been thinking that you haf been very good to the Princess, and I haf not always been so kind to you. I thought I will clean for you as a surprise."
"You're cleaning for me." He repeated.
Nodding and smiling at him, she picked up his pillow and briskly pummeled and plumped it, before adding, "I made those cookies just for you. I believe you are rather partial to chocolate chip?"
"They're my favorites. But that's not the point!" It was hard to be resisting the heavenly smell of the freshly baked goodies, but he managed to walk over and pull the pillow out of her hands. "Look, I don't want to be rude, but I'm not comfortable with this! Besides the fact I wasn't expecting you to invade my space, we have orders to take care of our own things- military discipline, and so on! If the guys find out you cleaned for me-if Keith finds out-"
"How vould they find out? I chose a time when they are busy!" Nanny said brightly. "I shall not tell them. I vork quickly, I vill be done and away in ten minutes."
Lance pondered. The room was neat as a pin, his laundry was folded and sitting on a chair, waiting to be put away. Thanks to the cookies, the whole place smelled great, seemed more homey. It was pretty nice not having to clean, even nicer that Nanny was offering an olive branch ...although it did make him wonder if a certain place had frozen over!
He supposed this could qualify as a minor miracle. Or the result of the right medications.
That was mean. She was trying. She had wanted to thank him, and he could accept that with the stipulation that it was a one and done. Now he could take the extra time he would have spent straightening up to arrange for Keith to take Allura to Garrett's wedding. Best to strike while the iron was hot, and while Keith was relaxed from his getaway.
"Just this once then," he said, thinking how strange it was to be objecting to having a woman who'd been the bane of his existence being nice, "it really wasn't necessary to reward me for carrying a suitcase. I appreciate that you've freed up some time for me-"
"Och, then you go along!" Nanny exclaimed warmly. "It is exactly my intention to give you some time away from chores! It is my pleasure to serve. You haf done far more than I can repay!"
He'd been given permission to bolt, but something compelled him to watch as she turned to tuck in the corners of the comforter. A frown of concern followed as he saw her head give an awkward kind of jerk, followed by another, and yet another. She kept working through each of the spasms, and he couldn't stand it any longer.
"How's your neck doing?"
"It's in good working order." Nanny's voice held an edge, but then her tone softened. "Your concern does you credit. If it will give you peace of mind, I am going to do an adjustment when I'm finished here."
Was she talking about cracking her neck again? Should he leave her alone to do that? What if she did it wrong? The recollection of her prior 'adjustment' made him cringe, but she had seemed to know exactly what she was doing. She said it helped. And he did have a mission to accomplish...
"You are not convinced, but I tell you I vill be fine." Nanny declared. Striding over to the plate, she grabbed a cookie and brought it to him. "Eat one. I vas told it's impossible to fret after one consumes premium Arusian chocolate."
As he took the cookie, bit into it, and luscious chocolate mixed with warm and crumbly dough delighted his taste buds, his eyes closed in momentary bliss.
She was right, dammit!
Decision made, he snagged another cookie and set off to find Keith, right after offering the Royal Governess his thanks and an uncharacteristically cordial farewell.
Left alone in the room, Nanny rapidly finished her duties while the semi regular neck spasms continued. Tilting her head to the left seemed to help, but it was definitely time for another adjustment.
Now that Lance had left, and knowing the others were occupied elsewhere, she would take care of it here. It wouldn't do to be twitching during her rendezvous with Arturo in the Meditation Garden.
She was a work in progress, that much was true.
But there were expectations. She didn't want him to see her as flawed.
Now that Lance had left, and knowing the others were occupied elsewhere, she would take care of it here. It wouldn't do to be twitching during her rendezvous with Arturo in the Meditation Garden.
She was a work in progress, that much was true.
But there were expectations. She didn't want him to see her as flawed.
"Hey Keith! Wait up!"
The Black Lion pilot put the brakes on his brisk walk down the castle hallway and turned to face his approaching wingman.
"Hey Lance."
"You on patrol?"
"Nope, just killing time until supper." Keith sniffed the air. "That's funny."
"What is?"
"It's a long way from the kitchen, but I smell chocolate chip cookies."
"Must be wishful thinking. I don't smell anything." Lance said, hoping he'd brushed away all the telltale crumbs. "So you have a few minutes to spare? I have some questions about what happened in the meeting and I thought you could help me."
"Sure thing." Brown eyes regarded Lance solemnly. "I should have done more of a follow up with you. Everything okay?"
Lance shoved his hands in his pockets. "I know I could have asked you earlier, but I, uh, wasn't comfortable doing that in front of the group."
Keith nodded. "I don't fully understand everything, but I'll be happy to tell you everything that I know." Glancing towards a nearby alcove that served as a break room for the guards, he said, "looks like no one's around right now. How about we grab a couple of coffees and sit there?"
"Sounds good!"
The two pilots were soon seated at a long rectangular table with steaming cups of coffee gleaned from the small kitchenette in the corner that had an old but serviceable coffeemaker.
"It's an off brand of coffee." Keith said. "Sorry."
Lance took a sip and grimaced. "Ugh, rot gut blend! Can't the bean counters shell out a few bucks and get the staff a better brand of java?"
"You'd think so. Bring it up at supper tonight. Bet the Princess will have the whole place outfitted with gourmet blends and an espresso machine before you know it."
"Man, that would be great. Always enjoyed the 'depth charges' when I was on night duty at the Academy." Lance noticedhis friend's inquiring look. "Whoa, you never had one? Coffee mixed with your choice of syrup and shots of espresso. Flavor and a buzz..."
"Nope, never had one. Would like to if I get the chance."
"Do you think Allura would really get us one of those machines?"
"Can't hurt to ask. Can always fess up to her that you need it since you fell asleep on the pod trip to Red Lion last early lion practice."
"Thanks, I'll take that into consideration." Lance said sarcastically, as Keith smirked. "Speaking of coffee, I bet they had great stuff in Althene, considering it's coffee country. "
"The coffee was really good, but actually I think we drank a lot more fresh squeezed fruit juice." Keith sipped his coffee, made a face, and hastily opened a packet of sugar to add to the brew.
"Staying with the Governor must have been first class. Bet he had a top notch machine in his mansion and all the fancy silver service stuff."
"Nope. The Carlac's home is far from being a mansion. They had a regular coffee maker. And they used a hand thrown pottery coffee service and cups."
"Why doesn't he have a grand house with the trappings? Isn't Carlac the highest ranking official in that region?"
"He's living in a village in the tropics. It's casual dress, laid back attitude. Having a mansion there would look weird."
"So you're saying the Governor of Althene wears sandals, floral shirts, long baggy shorts, and lives in a straw hovel?"
Keith rolled his eyes. "No, I'm saying they have a middling size, comfortable home with some of the modern conveniences. They like to live well, but to them that means simply, which allows them to be accessible to the citizenry as neighbors." He smiled. "One of the phrases I heard most often from the villagers was that when you're a team, everyone is family, and when you're family, you're always part of the team."
Lance nodded approvingly. "I bet the Princess liked that, dwelling alongside her people instead of above them."
"She was really impressed with the culture and how things were managed." Keith admitted, as he took another sip of coffee. "I don't think the word bureaucracy is on their radar. But living simple doesn't mean there wasn't a great deal of planning. I got to see a bit of their infrastructure that maintains security for us. On top of that, they went to the trouble to make it virtually invisible so it would feel make it seem like a real vacation."
"They sound like great hosts."
"They were- are. They treated us like family, and were genuinely happy we were there. They even got Allura to relax, despite her knowing that wherever she goes outside, the security measures to keep her safe can't help but disrupt people's everyday lives."
"She really does hate inconveniencing people." Lance sympathized. "Now I understand why she got that faraway look in her eyes when you were talking about the Althenean way of life in the meeting- it was like she was reliving it all as you spoke. How much does it have to suck for her to experience that kind of freedom and then have to return to living life in the fish bowl?"
Looking pensive, Keith nodded. "You know what though? As much as she was really happy to get out and experience things without all the fuss and formality, it wasn't exactly a carefree time for her. Given all the reminders of her folks that are there, it turned into more of a quest for knowledge than a chance to cut loose and be 'normal'."
"A bittersweet pilgrimage, huh?"
"You got it."
"Well, now that she's faced the past, she can move on. Her next trip there can be more about fun!" Lance suggested.
"Let's hope so."
Lance fiddled with his cup. "That brings me back to the topic at hand. I'd like to ask what it was like for you when Allura melded with your thoughts."
Keith blinked, and his face reddened.
"If you don't mind, that is. I know it's personal, but I thought-"
"I don't mind. But how about you tell me a bit about your mind linking first? It'll help me know where to start in making a comparison."
"Okay. " Lance wondered if the heat he felt rushing to his face meant it was as red as Keith's. "It was way out of my realm of experience, so I don't know that I can do justice in describing it."
"Trust me, I'm not going to do justice to it either. All we can do is try."
"Well, to start off, I wasn't sure I liked how my mind is."
"What do you mean?"
"I found out my subconscious is a labyrinth of hot places."
"Interesting. Sounds like hell."
"If that's your attempt at being funny, it doesn't make the cut."
"Just trying to break the stress. Continue, your subconscious is hot..."
"Yeah. It was elemental. Every thought I have is a dancing flame, and emotion makes them burn." Lance shrugged. "Don't know if I can say any more about it."
"Sure you can."
"Like?"
"There are different kinds of heat." Keith offered, with a small grin. "Tropical, fiery, burning, radiant, volcanic- take your pick."
Lance considered the suggestions. "At one time or another during the link, I'd say all of those applied. But you forgot one kind."
"What's that?"
"Sexual."
Keith's smile disappeared and his eyes skewered the Red Lion pilot.
"I meant that in a general sense," Lance grumbled, "since you're so determined that I need to be a fricking thesaurus."
"Right." Keith looked down at the table. "Sorry."
"No worries." Lance downed the last dregs of his bitter coffee with a repressed shudder. "Fire is Red Lion's element and special weapon, so it figures that I'd have that in any connection, right? How about you? How does it feel being in your inner consciousness?"
"Restless. Crackling and electric. Charged, like the atmosphere feels just before a storm."
"The close at hand power of thunder and lightning?"
Keith half smiled. "Yes."
"Cool. Were you freaked out?"
"At first, yeah. But once I got over the shock of my thoughts rumbling and being slung around like Odin's lightning bolts, it was an awesome experience."
"So...my mind is like the fires of Hades, and yours is like Odin's thunderbolts. My guess is any bond forged between our Red and Black Lion elite minds will involve skirmishes, challenges and mayhem."
"Maybe. But would that be any different than we are now?"
"Heh. Good point. Did you feel yourself changing once you linked with Allura?"
"No. Well, kind of. I was the same, but her presence added to what I was...I mean, it was more than before. I felt she was like-"
"Go on."
"This is going to sound weird and sorta corny..."
"Not to me." Lance’s serious expression backed up the statement.
"Her presence was like a strong, cleansing rain pouring from the the midst of the storm. Not destructive, but restorative. She brought everything together. The essence of the link enhanced what's inside me...because she brought balance and flow to it."
"Feng Shui," Lance stated.
Keith looked startled. "That's a great way of putting it. Did she do that for you?"
"Yeah. And that's kinda amazing, considering water and fire are opposing elements."
"It is. Which I'd say makes your connection extra special."
Was that a flicker of resentment in the brown eyes? He was in treacherous territory, he had to decide what he should conceal as much as what he revealed. And so Lance spoke slowly, while giving consideration to the importance of each of his next words.
"My connection with her wasn't about me having to alter anything. It wasn't about controlling, icing out or dousing the fires; it was about sharing common ground. It was empathy over telepathy. My thoughts were raging and undisciplined; she brought balance and calm by showing me that fire has equal potential to nurture and renew things as much as it brings harm."
"That's quite a realization. Why did you break from it?"
"Yeah, well, I never thought water and fire could coexist, much less be a cohesive force. Feeling the possibilities that coupling our power brought on sensations that were so intense that I almost- "
Feeling his emotions rising too quickly, Lance stopped for a moment, steadied himself, and went on.
"I was revved up beyond belief, and I wasn't sure what I'd do with those feelings or if I'd lose myself to them if they weren't stopped. I wasn't prepared for what linking brought me, or the magnitude of wanting so much more. The risk of hanging on was unacceptable. So I quit the link."
It was as vague as he could make it, hopefully Keith knew what he was getting at.
"It's okay." Keith said, as his friend gulped down more coffee.
"Is it though? If all of us would bond with our lions, I can see how that kind of connection would help us redirect our emotions to power up Voltron. But if linking with Allura brings feelings and impulses that are that strong for one guy, what will five be like? I...I don't know. It seems dangerous. All I know is that I don't want to fail and betray her."
"Don't know if this will help, but my experience was that knowing what to expect, it gets easier to deal with. Controlling a reaction is a lot more difficult when you've been caught off guard. The second time I wasn't blindsided by feeling things because I knew my reason was intact."
Lance gave a mirthless laugh. "I'm not sure mine was."
"I am. You were in control or you wouldn't have ended the connection. Being open to possibilities is great, and it was even better you were still able to set boundaries. That's the main thing. Even if it didn't go as you'd like, my gut feeling is that you've passed an important first test in allowing someone else in to feel it."
"How long did your link with her last before you broke it off?"
"Long enough for me to realize how damn hard it is to keep your inner beast from misbehaving when it's enhanced."
"Enhanced." Lance mused. "That's a very interesting way of putting it."
"Jeez....I didn't mean it like that!"
"Methinks Allura better get busy working on cold shower mind technique."
"Not funny!"
"Yes, it is. And you shouldn't be lion about it."
"Oh my god, that's bad."
"It's pun in a million!"
"Lance..."
"Does that glare mean you'd like me to paws?"
"Ugh..." Keith groaned. "I hope Red likes bad jokes."
"No worries. Even if he doesn't, after we bond, he can't fire me."
The two men grinned at each other.
"Want some more?" Keith asked, as he got up to brew a fresh pot of coffee.
"Uh...sure. Like you said, second time is better."
"So Keith, what do you think will happen when I do a Dream Quest?" Lance asked, as his cup was refilled. Taking a quick sip, he grimaced. With this grind, fresh definitely did not mean better.
"I suppose some things might be similar to mine as far as meeting your lion. But I'm guessing just as each lion is unique, the process of acceptance will be unique for the people they've chosen to bond with."
"That makes sense. And I think everyone getting to the ultimate bond means the Princess is going to have to be a catalyst."
"Really? What makes you say that?"
"The fact that Hunk, Pidge and I could sense her presence when she wasn't even here. And because she unites us in our cause. And....water is sustenance of life, isn't it? It has to be present for sentient things to survive – whether it's an entire planet or a mother's womb. Water is the center of everything."
Open mouthed, Keith stared at his friend, "I never thought of that. Great insight, Lance."
"Thanks. But it also raises a red flag."
"How?"
"Allura's been championing us since we arrived and the people thought we were space ruffians. She handed us the keys to Voltron, putting her trust in us while not knowing if we'd stay. She's a huge influence in our ability to even think about doing this bonding."
Keith frowned. "You say that like it's a problem."
"For us, no." Lance stated. "But for her...look, as much as we're heroes, we're not native to Arus. The way I see it, bonding with a lion means receiving a holy trust, and carrying on what is obviously a powerful and precious legacy for the Arusian people. Accepting it will require total commitment, loyalty and devotion to Arus that's akin to being born an Arusian. It's for life."
"That's why the lions make it a choice."
"That's right...it's our choice. But those we'll be protecting -how will they feel about their ruler advocating 'outsiders' being chosen over descendants of Lion warriors?" The Red Lion pilot shook his head. "Earning trust and acceptance as soldiers and defenders of the peace is one thing...being intimately entwined with their Princess and the ultimate powers in Arusian spiritual beliefs is on a whole other scale."
"That's a solid concern." Keith agreed. "But then there's this- Sarita and Varten Carlac are descendants of Lion Warriors, Varten is a warrior and former pilot of Black Lion...and they aren't questioning who the Lions have chosen and in fact, are extremely supportive of all of us in forging a bond with the ships we fly. I haven't any ancestry that ties me to Arus, and yet my bonding was welcomed by Althenians with open arms."
"Yeah, but remember that you're Captain, and the head and torso of Voltron," Lance shot back. "The proverbial elephant in the room is that I'm a mere appendage."
The bitterness that gave weight to his words was only a surprise to him in that he'd given voice to it. Judging by Keith's poleaxed expression, it was a complete shocker. "You're just as important to Voltron as I am."
"Okay."
"Voltron needs all of us -every part- to function! Remember when King Alfor said, we are five, and we fight as five when we need to fight as one? It took all of us to have the breakthrough we did. And now, another step-bonding with our lions is going to push that unity to the max- that connection can only help us attain the focus we need to act as one. None of us can do it alone."
Lance compressed his lips, but nodded.
"It's about needing all pieces to make a whole. Like our hockey team. We have centers and wingers who do most of the attacking and scoring, but you also have to have defense men, and a goalie...without them, you can't win no matter how much you score. Each player has a role and they are all equally important in achieving victory. If just one person doesn't buy in, it won't work."
"When you use a hockey analogy, I can't argue." Lance said wryly, and Keith chuckled. "Still, its all about having the desire to make the team. You know there are people out there who do have a history to uphold, who've been waiting to be chosen. To get picked by the lions because you happened to be friends with a Princess is wrong."
"Yes, and I have that concern too. I had numerous doubts about Varten giving me his amulet. He shared some things with me that I needed to consider. After I did, I understand and accept that I was chosen."
"I think I need enlightening then."
"From the very beginning, the tradition is that the lions choose their bond mates. The Lions the ones who made the sacrifice, and those sacrifices are what made creating Voltron possible."
"Okay, I'm with you, sorta..."
"They acted for the good of all, and so have we! We may not be native to this planet, but because of us, the Voltron force is known throughout the galaxy as a mighty Defender who helps those in need. It's not about pedigree or who you know, it's about doing what's right. The people already respect and trust us to protect them because we earned it. Why wouldn't they think our bonding isn't legitimate?"
The Black Lion pilot put the brakes on his brisk walk down the castle hallway and turned to face his approaching wingman.
"Hey Lance."
"You on patrol?"
"Nope, just killing time until supper." Keith sniffed the air. "That's funny."
"What is?"
"It's a long way from the kitchen, but I smell chocolate chip cookies."
"Must be wishful thinking. I don't smell anything." Lance said, hoping he'd brushed away all the telltale crumbs. "So you have a few minutes to spare? I have some questions about what happened in the meeting and I thought you could help me."
"Sure thing." Brown eyes regarded Lance solemnly. "I should have done more of a follow up with you. Everything okay?"
Lance shoved his hands in his pockets. "I know I could have asked you earlier, but I, uh, wasn't comfortable doing that in front of the group."
Keith nodded. "I don't fully understand everything, but I'll be happy to tell you everything that I know." Glancing towards a nearby alcove that served as a break room for the guards, he said, "looks like no one's around right now. How about we grab a couple of coffees and sit there?"
"Sounds good!"
The two pilots were soon seated at a long rectangular table with steaming cups of coffee gleaned from the small kitchenette in the corner that had an old but serviceable coffeemaker.
"It's an off brand of coffee." Keith said. "Sorry."
Lance took a sip and grimaced. "Ugh, rot gut blend! Can't the bean counters shell out a few bucks and get the staff a better brand of java?"
"You'd think so. Bring it up at supper tonight. Bet the Princess will have the whole place outfitted with gourmet blends and an espresso machine before you know it."
"Man, that would be great. Always enjoyed the 'depth charges' when I was on night duty at the Academy." Lance noticedhis friend's inquiring look. "Whoa, you never had one? Coffee mixed with your choice of syrup and shots of espresso. Flavor and a buzz..."
"Nope, never had one. Would like to if I get the chance."
"Do you think Allura would really get us one of those machines?"
"Can't hurt to ask. Can always fess up to her that you need it since you fell asleep on the pod trip to Red Lion last early lion practice."
"Thanks, I'll take that into consideration." Lance said sarcastically, as Keith smirked. "Speaking of coffee, I bet they had great stuff in Althene, considering it's coffee country. "
"The coffee was really good, but actually I think we drank a lot more fresh squeezed fruit juice." Keith sipped his coffee, made a face, and hastily opened a packet of sugar to add to the brew.
"Staying with the Governor must have been first class. Bet he had a top notch machine in his mansion and all the fancy silver service stuff."
"Nope. The Carlac's home is far from being a mansion. They had a regular coffee maker. And they used a hand thrown pottery coffee service and cups."
"Why doesn't he have a grand house with the trappings? Isn't Carlac the highest ranking official in that region?"
"He's living in a village in the tropics. It's casual dress, laid back attitude. Having a mansion there would look weird."
"So you're saying the Governor of Althene wears sandals, floral shirts, long baggy shorts, and lives in a straw hovel?"
Keith rolled his eyes. "No, I'm saying they have a middling size, comfortable home with some of the modern conveniences. They like to live well, but to them that means simply, which allows them to be accessible to the citizenry as neighbors." He smiled. "One of the phrases I heard most often from the villagers was that when you're a team, everyone is family, and when you're family, you're always part of the team."
Lance nodded approvingly. "I bet the Princess liked that, dwelling alongside her people instead of above them."
"She was really impressed with the culture and how things were managed." Keith admitted, as he took another sip of coffee. "I don't think the word bureaucracy is on their radar. But living simple doesn't mean there wasn't a great deal of planning. I got to see a bit of their infrastructure that maintains security for us. On top of that, they went to the trouble to make it virtually invisible so it would feel make it seem like a real vacation."
"They sound like great hosts."
"They were- are. They treated us like family, and were genuinely happy we were there. They even got Allura to relax, despite her knowing that wherever she goes outside, the security measures to keep her safe can't help but disrupt people's everyday lives."
"She really does hate inconveniencing people." Lance sympathized. "Now I understand why she got that faraway look in her eyes when you were talking about the Althenean way of life in the meeting- it was like she was reliving it all as you spoke. How much does it have to suck for her to experience that kind of freedom and then have to return to living life in the fish bowl?"
Looking pensive, Keith nodded. "You know what though? As much as she was really happy to get out and experience things without all the fuss and formality, it wasn't exactly a carefree time for her. Given all the reminders of her folks that are there, it turned into more of a quest for knowledge than a chance to cut loose and be 'normal'."
"A bittersweet pilgrimage, huh?"
"You got it."
"Well, now that she's faced the past, she can move on. Her next trip there can be more about fun!" Lance suggested.
"Let's hope so."
Lance fiddled with his cup. "That brings me back to the topic at hand. I'd like to ask what it was like for you when Allura melded with your thoughts."
Keith blinked, and his face reddened.
"If you don't mind, that is. I know it's personal, but I thought-"
"I don't mind. But how about you tell me a bit about your mind linking first? It'll help me know where to start in making a comparison."
"Okay. " Lance wondered if the heat he felt rushing to his face meant it was as red as Keith's. "It was way out of my realm of experience, so I don't know that I can do justice in describing it."
"Trust me, I'm not going to do justice to it either. All we can do is try."
"Well, to start off, I wasn't sure I liked how my mind is."
"What do you mean?"
"I found out my subconscious is a labyrinth of hot places."
"Interesting. Sounds like hell."
"If that's your attempt at being funny, it doesn't make the cut."
"Just trying to break the stress. Continue, your subconscious is hot..."
"Yeah. It was elemental. Every thought I have is a dancing flame, and emotion makes them burn." Lance shrugged. "Don't know if I can say any more about it."
"Sure you can."
"Like?"
"There are different kinds of heat." Keith offered, with a small grin. "Tropical, fiery, burning, radiant, volcanic- take your pick."
Lance considered the suggestions. "At one time or another during the link, I'd say all of those applied. But you forgot one kind."
"What's that?"
"Sexual."
Keith's smile disappeared and his eyes skewered the Red Lion pilot.
"I meant that in a general sense," Lance grumbled, "since you're so determined that I need to be a fricking thesaurus."
"Right." Keith looked down at the table. "Sorry."
"No worries." Lance downed the last dregs of his bitter coffee with a repressed shudder. "Fire is Red Lion's element and special weapon, so it figures that I'd have that in any connection, right? How about you? How does it feel being in your inner consciousness?"
"Restless. Crackling and electric. Charged, like the atmosphere feels just before a storm."
"The close at hand power of thunder and lightning?"
Keith half smiled. "Yes."
"Cool. Were you freaked out?"
"At first, yeah. But once I got over the shock of my thoughts rumbling and being slung around like Odin's lightning bolts, it was an awesome experience."
"So...my mind is like the fires of Hades, and yours is like Odin's thunderbolts. My guess is any bond forged between our Red and Black Lion elite minds will involve skirmishes, challenges and mayhem."
"Maybe. But would that be any different than we are now?"
"Heh. Good point. Did you feel yourself changing once you linked with Allura?"
"No. Well, kind of. I was the same, but her presence added to what I was...I mean, it was more than before. I felt she was like-"
"Go on."
"This is going to sound weird and sorta corny..."
"Not to me." Lance’s serious expression backed up the statement.
"Her presence was like a strong, cleansing rain pouring from the the midst of the storm. Not destructive, but restorative. She brought everything together. The essence of the link enhanced what's inside me...because she brought balance and flow to it."
"Feng Shui," Lance stated.
Keith looked startled. "That's a great way of putting it. Did she do that for you?"
"Yeah. And that's kinda amazing, considering water and fire are opposing elements."
"It is. Which I'd say makes your connection extra special."
Was that a flicker of resentment in the brown eyes? He was in treacherous territory, he had to decide what he should conceal as much as what he revealed. And so Lance spoke slowly, while giving consideration to the importance of each of his next words.
"My connection with her wasn't about me having to alter anything. It wasn't about controlling, icing out or dousing the fires; it was about sharing common ground. It was empathy over telepathy. My thoughts were raging and undisciplined; she brought balance and calm by showing me that fire has equal potential to nurture and renew things as much as it brings harm."
"That's quite a realization. Why did you break from it?"
"Yeah, well, I never thought water and fire could coexist, much less be a cohesive force. Feeling the possibilities that coupling our power brought on sensations that were so intense that I almost- "
Feeling his emotions rising too quickly, Lance stopped for a moment, steadied himself, and went on.
"I was revved up beyond belief, and I wasn't sure what I'd do with those feelings or if I'd lose myself to them if they weren't stopped. I wasn't prepared for what linking brought me, or the magnitude of wanting so much more. The risk of hanging on was unacceptable. So I quit the link."
It was as vague as he could make it, hopefully Keith knew what he was getting at.
"It's okay." Keith said, as his friend gulped down more coffee.
"Is it though? If all of us would bond with our lions, I can see how that kind of connection would help us redirect our emotions to power up Voltron. But if linking with Allura brings feelings and impulses that are that strong for one guy, what will five be like? I...I don't know. It seems dangerous. All I know is that I don't want to fail and betray her."
"Don't know if this will help, but my experience was that knowing what to expect, it gets easier to deal with. Controlling a reaction is a lot more difficult when you've been caught off guard. The second time I wasn't blindsided by feeling things because I knew my reason was intact."
Lance gave a mirthless laugh. "I'm not sure mine was."
"I am. You were in control or you wouldn't have ended the connection. Being open to possibilities is great, and it was even better you were still able to set boundaries. That's the main thing. Even if it didn't go as you'd like, my gut feeling is that you've passed an important first test in allowing someone else in to feel it."
"How long did your link with her last before you broke it off?"
"Long enough for me to realize how damn hard it is to keep your inner beast from misbehaving when it's enhanced."
"Enhanced." Lance mused. "That's a very interesting way of putting it."
"Jeez....I didn't mean it like that!"
"Methinks Allura better get busy working on cold shower mind technique."
"Not funny!"
"Yes, it is. And you shouldn't be lion about it."
"Oh my god, that's bad."
"It's pun in a million!"
"Lance..."
"Does that glare mean you'd like me to paws?"
"Ugh..." Keith groaned. "I hope Red likes bad jokes."
"No worries. Even if he doesn't, after we bond, he can't fire me."
The two men grinned at each other.
"Want some more?" Keith asked, as he got up to brew a fresh pot of coffee.
"Uh...sure. Like you said, second time is better."
"So Keith, what do you think will happen when I do a Dream Quest?" Lance asked, as his cup was refilled. Taking a quick sip, he grimaced. With this grind, fresh definitely did not mean better.
"I suppose some things might be similar to mine as far as meeting your lion. But I'm guessing just as each lion is unique, the process of acceptance will be unique for the people they've chosen to bond with."
"That makes sense. And I think everyone getting to the ultimate bond means the Princess is going to have to be a catalyst."
"Really? What makes you say that?"
"The fact that Hunk, Pidge and I could sense her presence when she wasn't even here. And because she unites us in our cause. And....water is sustenance of life, isn't it? It has to be present for sentient things to survive – whether it's an entire planet or a mother's womb. Water is the center of everything."
Open mouthed, Keith stared at his friend, "I never thought of that. Great insight, Lance."
"Thanks. But it also raises a red flag."
"How?"
"Allura's been championing us since we arrived and the people thought we were space ruffians. She handed us the keys to Voltron, putting her trust in us while not knowing if we'd stay. She's a huge influence in our ability to even think about doing this bonding."
Keith frowned. "You say that like it's a problem."
"For us, no." Lance stated. "But for her...look, as much as we're heroes, we're not native to Arus. The way I see it, bonding with a lion means receiving a holy trust, and carrying on what is obviously a powerful and precious legacy for the Arusian people. Accepting it will require total commitment, loyalty and devotion to Arus that's akin to being born an Arusian. It's for life."
"That's why the lions make it a choice."
"That's right...it's our choice. But those we'll be protecting -how will they feel about their ruler advocating 'outsiders' being chosen over descendants of Lion warriors?" The Red Lion pilot shook his head. "Earning trust and acceptance as soldiers and defenders of the peace is one thing...being intimately entwined with their Princess and the ultimate powers in Arusian spiritual beliefs is on a whole other scale."
"That's a solid concern." Keith agreed. "But then there's this- Sarita and Varten Carlac are descendants of Lion Warriors, Varten is a warrior and former pilot of Black Lion...and they aren't questioning who the Lions have chosen and in fact, are extremely supportive of all of us in forging a bond with the ships we fly. I haven't any ancestry that ties me to Arus, and yet my bonding was welcomed by Althenians with open arms."
"Yeah, but remember that you're Captain, and the head and torso of Voltron," Lance shot back. "The proverbial elephant in the room is that I'm a mere appendage."
The bitterness that gave weight to his words was only a surprise to him in that he'd given voice to it. Judging by Keith's poleaxed expression, it was a complete shocker. "You're just as important to Voltron as I am."
"Okay."
"Voltron needs all of us -every part- to function! Remember when King Alfor said, we are five, and we fight as five when we need to fight as one? It took all of us to have the breakthrough we did. And now, another step-bonding with our lions is going to push that unity to the max- that connection can only help us attain the focus we need to act as one. None of us can do it alone."
Lance compressed his lips, but nodded.
"It's about needing all pieces to make a whole. Like our hockey team. We have centers and wingers who do most of the attacking and scoring, but you also have to have defense men, and a goalie...without them, you can't win no matter how much you score. Each player has a role and they are all equally important in achieving victory. If just one person doesn't buy in, it won't work."
"When you use a hockey analogy, I can't argue." Lance said wryly, and Keith chuckled. "Still, its all about having the desire to make the team. You know there are people out there who do have a history to uphold, who've been waiting to be chosen. To get picked by the lions because you happened to be friends with a Princess is wrong."
"Yes, and I have that concern too. I had numerous doubts about Varten giving me his amulet. He shared some things with me that I needed to consider. After I did, I understand and accept that I was chosen."
"I think I need enlightening then."
"From the very beginning, the tradition is that the lions choose their bond mates. The Lions the ones who made the sacrifice, and those sacrifices are what made creating Voltron possible."
"Okay, I'm with you, sorta..."
"They acted for the good of all, and so have we! We may not be native to this planet, but because of us, the Voltron force is known throughout the galaxy as a mighty Defender who helps those in need. It's not about pedigree or who you know, it's about doing what's right. The people already respect and trust us to protect them because we earned it. Why wouldn't they think our bonding isn't legitimate?"
Keith paused to gauge the impact of his speech. He wasn't used to having to give pep talks to Lance, and didn't want to overdo it.
"You make a great case for us being legit." Lance told him. "Can see why you were so good at debate."
"It's all about conviction. And because I'm right."
"Yeah, well let's not get cocky! I have another question!"
"Okay, shoot."
Lance looked as if he were trying to carefully formulate an approach to his next inquiry, but in the end he shrugged and delivered a response with his usual lack of subtlety.
"Did the Princess have any life changing epiphanies in Althene?"
Keith lifted his shoulders. "Must have, if she bonded with Blue."
"Yeah. And that's why I ask. I noticed she didn't really talk about that."
"The epiphanies?"
"The bonding. She was pretty vague on how it went for her. Can't help wondering why."
Keith's mouth compressed. "Not my place to say."
"So I should ask her?"
"I advise against it."
"Was it that stressful?"
"I'm not at liberty to say."
The words paired with a forbidding expression made it a total shut down, and Lance was savvy enough not to press for more. "Okay, here's something I hope you can answer. I need a favor..."
"You make a great case for us being legit." Lance told him. "Can see why you were so good at debate."
"It's all about conviction. And because I'm right."
"Yeah, well let's not get cocky! I have another question!"
"Okay, shoot."
Lance looked as if he were trying to carefully formulate an approach to his next inquiry, but in the end he shrugged and delivered a response with his usual lack of subtlety.
"Did the Princess have any life changing epiphanies in Althene?"
Keith lifted his shoulders. "Must have, if she bonded with Blue."
"Yeah. And that's why I ask. I noticed she didn't really talk about that."
"The epiphanies?"
"The bonding. She was pretty vague on how it went for her. Can't help wondering why."
Keith's mouth compressed. "Not my place to say."
"So I should ask her?"
"I advise against it."
"Was it that stressful?"
"I'm not at liberty to say."
The words paired with a forbidding expression made it a total shut down, and Lance was savvy enough not to press for more. "Okay, here's something I hope you can answer. I need a favor..."
While his friend explained his 'dilemma', Keith regarded him with increasing skepticism and amusement. It was an understatement to say it unusual for Lance to fob off a date, and unprecedented to bow out on one with the Princess. Something was up, for sure. But whatever the motive behind it, it was an offer he couldn't refuse. It suited his purposes for finding a way to spend time with Allura that wouldn't raise eyebrows. Not that he'd be sharing that tidbit with Lance.
"So would you mind helping me out here? I could've managed fine with her sitting next to me at the ceremony, but security dictates she has someone next to her at all times, and I have to move around at the reception. Guards standing at her side isn't going to make her approachable. She'd be safe and still get to talk to people if she was with you."
Keith took a moment, pretending to think, then kept his tone casual as he answered, "I'll do it. Like you said, these chances to connect socially with her subjects are rare. It's a happy occasion too, it'd be a shame to cancel."
"Yeah, I don't like disappointing her, especially since it was my idea in the first place..." before Keith could respond, Lance checked his watch and added, "I have something else to ask you, but it'll have to wait, 'cause I have things to get done before dinner."
"All right. Just let me know."
"Thanks a lot for helping me out and the talk."
"No problem. Like I said, this is all new to me too. I hope I helped."
"You did." Lance assured him. Getting to his feet, he sketched a salute, which Keith returned. "See you at dinner."
"All right. Later."
As Lance walked away, the bounce in his gait offered the impression he'd like to be doing a jig at having successfully hoodwinked his best friend into a date.
Behind his retreating figure, the broad grin on Keith's face told its own story.
"So would you mind helping me out here? I could've managed fine with her sitting next to me at the ceremony, but security dictates she has someone next to her at all times, and I have to move around at the reception. Guards standing at her side isn't going to make her approachable. She'd be safe and still get to talk to people if she was with you."
Keith took a moment, pretending to think, then kept his tone casual as he answered, "I'll do it. Like you said, these chances to connect socially with her subjects are rare. It's a happy occasion too, it'd be a shame to cancel."
"Yeah, I don't like disappointing her, especially since it was my idea in the first place..." before Keith could respond, Lance checked his watch and added, "I have something else to ask you, but it'll have to wait, 'cause I have things to get done before dinner."
"All right. Just let me know."
"Thanks a lot for helping me out and the talk."
"No problem. Like I said, this is all new to me too. I hope I helped."
"You did." Lance assured him. Getting to his feet, he sketched a salute, which Keith returned. "See you at dinner."
"All right. Later."
As Lance walked away, the bounce in his gait offered the impression he'd like to be doing a jig at having successfully hoodwinked his best friend into a date.
Behind his retreating figure, the broad grin on Keith's face told its own story.
A few minutes later Keith was hunched over a third cup of coffee, swirling a stir stick through the murky brown liquid while he thought about the uncomfortable conversation with Lance.
Despite knowing his friend was an honorable man in telling him the truth, (albeit in a very indirect way) he had had a moment of unease that Allura had brought out those kind of feelings in his friend. He'd felt territorial, had been tempted to spill everything to Lance that happened in Althene with Allura. Of course he hadn't, because that would have been a violation of Allura's privacy. It bothered him that he'd even thought of doing it.
He closed his eyes, trying his best to meditate. He was uncertain how much time had passed when the insistent chime of his communicator prodded him.
Blinking and relaxed, he vaguely registered that specific tone was a signal to open communication to a secure private channel.
He opened the connection by unhurriedly tapping a code into the communicator pinned to his uniform with his fingers. Despite his hunched posture, his voice was professional as he greeted the caller. "Commander Keith here."
"Keith, It's Allura. Are you doing anything right now?"
Impassivity fled. He sat bolt upright. "Nothing that can't wait for later."
"Oh good! Then could you visit my chambers right away?" She asked, adding hastily, "Something peculiar was seen and I think it needs checking out."
He wanted to think it a ruse to see him, but he could sense her concern and her tone wasn't flirtatious. "What's peculiar about it?"
"It was a humanoid type shadow. Seen in a secure area where there wasn't anything that could cast it."
"Weird that the alarms and sensors haven't gone off."
"Yes, I know, but you know space mice pick up on things that our sensors don't."
"One of the mice saw it?"
"Yes, Cheddar. It was leaving the outside of the meeting room we were in. He followed it, but couldn't identify what it was, and he wanted to observe protocol in reporting it." Her voice lowered. "Keith, he ran all the way here, it's obvious it's not nothing. I'm sure it wouldn't hurt for you to hear his information and check on it?"
Allura's tone was a bit reproving, which was warranted, Keith thought guiltily, because he had questioned the validity of mysterious creature mouse reports in the past. Reports that had inevitably ended up being true.
Was it bad he was thinking that reason was secondary to getting to see her in the privacy of her quarters?
"Hello? Keith?"
"Sorry, just thinking. Sit tight, okay? I'll be there in a minute."
Despite knowing his friend was an honorable man in telling him the truth, (albeit in a very indirect way) he had had a moment of unease that Allura had brought out those kind of feelings in his friend. He'd felt territorial, had been tempted to spill everything to Lance that happened in Althene with Allura. Of course he hadn't, because that would have been a violation of Allura's privacy. It bothered him that he'd even thought of doing it.
He closed his eyes, trying his best to meditate. He was uncertain how much time had passed when the insistent chime of his communicator prodded him.
Blinking and relaxed, he vaguely registered that specific tone was a signal to open communication to a secure private channel.
He opened the connection by unhurriedly tapping a code into the communicator pinned to his uniform with his fingers. Despite his hunched posture, his voice was professional as he greeted the caller. "Commander Keith here."
"Keith, It's Allura. Are you doing anything right now?"
Impassivity fled. He sat bolt upright. "Nothing that can't wait for later."
"Oh good! Then could you visit my chambers right away?" She asked, adding hastily, "Something peculiar was seen and I think it needs checking out."
He wanted to think it a ruse to see him, but he could sense her concern and her tone wasn't flirtatious. "What's peculiar about it?"
"It was a humanoid type shadow. Seen in a secure area where there wasn't anything that could cast it."
"Weird that the alarms and sensors haven't gone off."
"Yes, I know, but you know space mice pick up on things that our sensors don't."
"One of the mice saw it?"
"Yes, Cheddar. It was leaving the outside of the meeting room we were in. He followed it, but couldn't identify what it was, and he wanted to observe protocol in reporting it." Her voice lowered. "Keith, he ran all the way here, it's obvious it's not nothing. I'm sure it wouldn't hurt for you to hear his information and check on it?"
Allura's tone was a bit reproving, which was warranted, Keith thought guiltily, because he had questioned the validity of mysterious creature mouse reports in the past. Reports that had inevitably ended up being true.
Was it bad he was thinking that reason was secondary to getting to see her in the privacy of her quarters?
"Hello? Keith?"
"Sorry, just thinking. Sit tight, okay? I'll be there in a minute."
Author's Note: The quoted poem in this chapter was composed by Edwin Muir.
A huge hug and many thanks to my awesome beta Shannon. Her insights helped me make great improvements to this chapter!
A huge hug and many thanks to my awesome beta Shannon. Her insights helped me make great improvements to this chapter!
The Solitary Blossom
Keith wasted no time in getting to Allura's quarters, but caution ensued once he arrived.
Smoothing a hand over the shock of hair that stood on end after his run through the hallway, he assessed the brightly lit corridor from both directions.
No shadows, no hovering Nanny, no lurking staff. For all intents and purposes, deserted.
He knew that the appearance of solitude was misleading. Cameras hidden throughout the castle passages provided round the clock surveillance, and its inner walls were fortified with anti-intruder devices set to alert the appropriate personnel if someone tried to cut through. If he didn't have maximum security clearance for this sector of the castle, he'd have already been challenged.
Taking a deep breath, he pushed the door chime. Before the sound had finished, the door slid open to reveal the Princess.
Everything ceased to exist as her nearness filled his senses.
She had changed into the familiar pink court dress; as always, her exquisite shoulders showed to advantage. Beneath the circlet of her high office, the glorious nimbus of golden hair framed her face and cascaded down her back.
There was one small yet significant change- the usual platinum choker had been replaced by Blue Lion's amulet. It lay against her creamy skin, the glow from the lion's head atop the lustrous sapphire stone prompting a reaction from its onyx counterpart hidden beneath his uniform.
"Hello! Thank you for getting here so quickly!" Her eyes sparkled; her spoken greeting had a breathy quality that incited an impulse to yank her against him and kiss the living daylights out of her. But as quickly as it had risen, the thought was quashed by the sight of Cheddar standing on her left shoulder, squeaking excitedly as Allura translated.
"Keith, he's saying the other mice also have seen the shadow creeping across the wall in the corridors near Castle Control. Cheddar was the one who followed it until it disappeared."
He looked at Cheddar and gave a sober faced nod. "Whether it's a phantom or not, it had to leave some kind of signature behind. Would you be willing to check that area again for any clues as to where it might have gone?"
Cheddar grinned and gave a warrior's salute.
Keith smiled at the tiny creature.
If bravery was measured in height, this mouse would be a colossus.
"Listen, Cheddar, if you find the entity, don't engage. Stay out of sight, and come straight back here. I'll be waiting and take it from there." He turned to the woman standing next to him. "That is, with your permission, Princess."
Feeling excited and slightly uneasy, Allura answered in the affirmative. Her eagerness for Keith's company was offset by a potentially unsafe situation; this was not the way she had wanted to steal time alone with him.
"Please be careful, Cheddar!" She entreated, as she lifted him to the air duct.
The mouse chirped a cheery reassurance as he hopped without hesitation into the tunnel that could be a path to danger. Deep affection filled the Princess at seeing her tiny champion so willing to take on the immense responsibility of protecting the castle.
Cheddar truly had the heart of a lion.
Perhaps triggered by the swell of her emotions, Blue gave an empathetic rumble of approval within her mind. The reverberation of the telepathic growl was so palpable, it sent Allura's gaze darting to Keith. Ever since their first linking had happened, she'd wondered if he ever sensed Blue Lion the way she was able to hear the growling of Black whenever Keith looked at her a certain way…
It was a bit disappointing that he showed no signs of having heard Blue. Then again, he seemed distracted; something was weighing on his mind. "Keith? What's happened?"
"Nothing to be really concerned about." His expression had become guarded. "I ran into Lance a few minutes ago. We had quite a talk."
"Is that a good or a bad thing?"
"Mostly good, I think." His voice and expression held confidence, but Allura found his choice of words less reassuring. Before she could press him, Keith added, "he had questions about the process of bonding and about mind linking with you."
"I see." Worry assailed her. Had she pushed Lance too far, too soon? "I would hope Lance feels he still can talk to me, but I understand why he'd be more comfortable talking to you."
"It wasn't personal. It was more like we just compared notes."
"I didn't give him any chance to prepare." She confessed. "I sensed great anxiety before he pulled away from our connection. I was too forward and made it difficult."
"If it was difficult, it wasn't because of anything you did, Allura." Keith said steadily. "Yeah, it was a lot to process, especially for a guy who takes pride in never letting anyone see him sweat. He found out unwavering emotional fortitude only goes so far. "
"He's sensitive beneath that armor." She said softly. "Very much so."
"But he got through it just fine! And anyway, even if he didn't go into specifics on his thoughts, I'd categorize it as him being curious about what I thought, and having a general academic discussion." He chuckled. "The way he was tossing around the puns, I'd say he's recovered from any emotional stress."
Allura eyed him, wondering if it was her imagination that he seemed nettled.
"Oh, and he also asked me if I could escort you to Garrett and Mara's wedding and reception in his place."
The abrupt change of topic made her blink and diverted her thinking "Oh no! Did he say why he's not able to go?"
"Oh, he's still going. But now that he's been named the official photographer, he thought it'd be safer and a lot more fun for you if your escort could spend the whole time with you instead of having to run around."
"I see. And what did you say?"
She blushed under his incredulous look.
"I said yes, of course I would! It's a no-brainer, getting a chance to spend sanctioned time together at a happy event like a wedding dance-" he broke off at her involuntary expression of dismay, "but I should've asked you properly. I hope it was okay, I mean, I didn't intend to take things for granted, I just thought-"
"No, no, no!" She exclaimed, waving her hands. "I'm extremely happy you said yes! But Lance must have forgotten..."
"Forgotten what?"
"That I was only going to attend the ceremony, not the reception and dance."
"Why wouldn't you go to all of it?"
"Because along with my security detail inconveniencing guests, my presence would be a distraction when people should be focusing their attention on Garrett and Mara! I personally told Garrett that when he invited me."
"I'm thinking they were fine with that or they wouldn't have asked."
"Well, yes, Garrett did his best to assure me that I wouldn't be a hindrance. It was very kind of him, but I don't think he has a complete grasp on what security checks involve! I tried to be firm, then he requested that I at least attend the ceremony." Her lips curved with wry amusement. "He told me that wouldn't be any problem because everyone knows to behave in church. And if anyone didn't, they'd have to answer to the Bishop!"
Keith laughed, thinking of the elderly but formidable cleric. "The man makes a strong point."
"He also said that it would bring good luck and make the day extra special to have the blessing of my presence at their marriage. I...I couldn't refuse him after that."
"Of course you couldn't. It's something they will tell their future children." Dark eyes regarded her intently. "But something else is bothering you."
"I'm feeling like there's more to this." She admitted. "Be honest with me, Keith! Was Lance looking for an excuse not to be my escort because he was upset about how the linking went?"
"Absolutely not!" He assured her. "This is Lance actually being a nice guy. He knew his attention would be divided, and he didn't want you to miss out on having fun. I mean, how often does your presence get sanctioned for purely social events?"
"Rarely to never." Her mouth turned downwards. "But it's a sanctioned outing only if it's determined that I have a suitable amount of protection. And that means more inconvenience."
"Not if we plan ahead and streamline the process." He pointed out. "And if Lance and I are both going to be there, Coran probably won't require as large a contingent of guards."
She brightened. "That's true."
"Fewer guards, making the day even happier for bride and groom, and not depriving Sir Lancelot of his passion for chronicling momentous and magical moments through the photographic arts! It's a win win situation!"
"Magical momentous moments..." she giggled, "I think that besides being wonderful at alliteration, you'd do well as Lance's public relations guru!"
"Would never work. He'd be constantly complaining about my booking early morning sessions."
"Mm. Or that you overbooked him."
"Or that I wouldn't allow him to charge people for selfies with Voltron!"
As Keith grinned at her, Allura laughed.
"In all seriousness," she said, "from the few I've seen, he takes excellent pictures and I think it's lovely he's getting the chance to showcase his talent outside of surveillance."
"Yeah, it's pretty cool. And I'm thinking he'll make the pictures a gift."
"I know he will. I wish he'd allow more people to see his huge, giving heart..." she sighed. "Speaking of gifts- as long as we're waiting for Cheddar, would you like to see what Hunk gave me?"
"You mean the thing that earned him a very memorable kiss?"
She nodded, blushing.
"Yeah, I'd like to see it."
"Please be careful, Cheddar!" She entreated, as she lifted him to the air duct.
The mouse chirped a cheery reassurance as he hopped without hesitation into the tunnel that could be a path to danger. Deep affection filled the Princess at seeing her tiny champion so willing to take on the immense responsibility of protecting the castle.
Cheddar truly had the heart of a lion.
Perhaps triggered by the swell of her emotions, Blue gave an empathetic rumble of approval within her mind. The reverberation of the telepathic growl was so palpable, it sent Allura's gaze darting to Keith. Ever since their first linking had happened, she'd wondered if he ever sensed Blue Lion the way she was able to hear the growling of Black whenever Keith looked at her a certain way…
It was a bit disappointing that he showed no signs of having heard Blue. Then again, he seemed distracted; something was weighing on his mind. "Keith? What's happened?"
"Nothing to be really concerned about." His expression had become guarded. "I ran into Lance a few minutes ago. We had quite a talk."
"Is that a good or a bad thing?"
"Mostly good, I think." His voice and expression held confidence, but Allura found his choice of words less reassuring. Before she could press him, Keith added, "he had questions about the process of bonding and about mind linking with you."
"I see." Worry assailed her. Had she pushed Lance too far, too soon? "I would hope Lance feels he still can talk to me, but I understand why he'd be more comfortable talking to you."
"It wasn't personal. It was more like we just compared notes."
"I didn't give him any chance to prepare." She confessed. "I sensed great anxiety before he pulled away from our connection. I was too forward and made it difficult."
"If it was difficult, it wasn't because of anything you did, Allura." Keith said steadily. "Yeah, it was a lot to process, especially for a guy who takes pride in never letting anyone see him sweat. He found out unwavering emotional fortitude only goes so far. "
"He's sensitive beneath that armor." She said softly. "Very much so."
"But he got through it just fine! And anyway, even if he didn't go into specifics on his thoughts, I'd categorize it as him being curious about what I thought, and having a general academic discussion." He chuckled. "The way he was tossing around the puns, I'd say he's recovered from any emotional stress."
Allura eyed him, wondering if it was her imagination that he seemed nettled.
"Oh, and he also asked me if I could escort you to Garrett and Mara's wedding and reception in his place."
The abrupt change of topic made her blink and diverted her thinking "Oh no! Did he say why he's not able to go?"
"Oh, he's still going. But now that he's been named the official photographer, he thought it'd be safer and a lot more fun for you if your escort could spend the whole time with you instead of having to run around."
"I see. And what did you say?"
She blushed under his incredulous look.
"I said yes, of course I would! It's a no-brainer, getting a chance to spend sanctioned time together at a happy event like a wedding dance-" he broke off at her involuntary expression of dismay, "but I should've asked you properly. I hope it was okay, I mean, I didn't intend to take things for granted, I just thought-"
"No, no, no!" She exclaimed, waving her hands. "I'm extremely happy you said yes! But Lance must have forgotten..."
"Forgotten what?"
"That I was only going to attend the ceremony, not the reception and dance."
"Why wouldn't you go to all of it?"
"Because along with my security detail inconveniencing guests, my presence would be a distraction when people should be focusing their attention on Garrett and Mara! I personally told Garrett that when he invited me."
"I'm thinking they were fine with that or they wouldn't have asked."
"Well, yes, Garrett did his best to assure me that I wouldn't be a hindrance. It was very kind of him, but I don't think he has a complete grasp on what security checks involve! I tried to be firm, then he requested that I at least attend the ceremony." Her lips curved with wry amusement. "He told me that wouldn't be any problem because everyone knows to behave in church. And if anyone didn't, they'd have to answer to the Bishop!"
Keith laughed, thinking of the elderly but formidable cleric. "The man makes a strong point."
"He also said that it would bring good luck and make the day extra special to have the blessing of my presence at their marriage. I...I couldn't refuse him after that."
"Of course you couldn't. It's something they will tell their future children." Dark eyes regarded her intently. "But something else is bothering you."
"I'm feeling like there's more to this." She admitted. "Be honest with me, Keith! Was Lance looking for an excuse not to be my escort because he was upset about how the linking went?"
"Absolutely not!" He assured her. "This is Lance actually being a nice guy. He knew his attention would be divided, and he didn't want you to miss out on having fun. I mean, how often does your presence get sanctioned for purely social events?"
"Rarely to never." Her mouth turned downwards. "But it's a sanctioned outing only if it's determined that I have a suitable amount of protection. And that means more inconvenience."
"Not if we plan ahead and streamline the process." He pointed out. "And if Lance and I are both going to be there, Coran probably won't require as large a contingent of guards."
She brightened. "That's true."
"Fewer guards, making the day even happier for bride and groom, and not depriving Sir Lancelot of his passion for chronicling momentous and magical moments through the photographic arts! It's a win win situation!"
"Magical momentous moments..." she giggled, "I think that besides being wonderful at alliteration, you'd do well as Lance's public relations guru!"
"Would never work. He'd be constantly complaining about my booking early morning sessions."
"Mm. Or that you overbooked him."
"Or that I wouldn't allow him to charge people for selfies with Voltron!"
As Keith grinned at her, Allura laughed.
"In all seriousness," she said, "from the few I've seen, he takes excellent pictures and I think it's lovely he's getting the chance to showcase his talent outside of surveillance."
"Yeah, it's pretty cool. And I'm thinking he'll make the pictures a gift."
"I know he will. I wish he'd allow more people to see his huge, giving heart..." she sighed. "Speaking of gifts- as long as we're waiting for Cheddar, would you like to see what Hunk gave me?"
"You mean the thing that earned him a very memorable kiss?"
She nodded, blushing.
"Yeah, I'd like to see it."
She glided to the bed and pointed to the frothy cloud of white material that lay upon the coverlet. "This is it. Come and see!"
Keith walked over to her with an indulgent half smile, but when he got a good look at the Yellow Lion pilot's handiwork, his eyes and mouth rounded with surprise. The nightgown was the one he'd seen Allura wearing not long ago, he was certain. But now, delicate, stunningly beautiful embroidery decorated the neckline and yolk of the gown, transforming it into a work of art.
"Hunk made this himself," Allura said. Leaning forward, she ran her fingertips over the Blue Lion's head, her caress full of reverence and appreciation. "The work of a master craftsman..."
Keith could only nod in fervent agreement. With as little knowledge as he had about such things, even he could see it was superior needlework- how Hunk of the huge hands could produce such fine, detailed stitching was a marvel.
Allura would look beautiful in it.
He closed off the imagery as his body began to stir.
Allura smiled down at the nightgown, her expression tender. "It's gorgeous and one of a kind, just like him."
He agreed wholeheartedly. "It's humbling to think you know everything there is to know about someone and suddenly find out they have this amazing hidden ability you never suspected they possessed."
"And now you understand why I kissed him."
"Yeah. I guess I can't begrudge him one," he said, adding quickly as she raised her eyebrows, "did you get that from him too?" He directed her attention to the book lying next to the gown.
"Actually, that is the book Varten gave to me before we left Althene."
"Ah yes, the one you were very happy to get."
"Yes."
Keith walked over to her with an indulgent half smile, but when he got a good look at the Yellow Lion pilot's handiwork, his eyes and mouth rounded with surprise. The nightgown was the one he'd seen Allura wearing not long ago, he was certain. But now, delicate, stunningly beautiful embroidery decorated the neckline and yolk of the gown, transforming it into a work of art.
"Hunk made this himself," Allura said. Leaning forward, she ran her fingertips over the Blue Lion's head, her caress full of reverence and appreciation. "The work of a master craftsman..."
Keith could only nod in fervent agreement. With as little knowledge as he had about such things, even he could see it was superior needlework- how Hunk of the huge hands could produce such fine, detailed stitching was a marvel.
Allura would look beautiful in it.
He closed off the imagery as his body began to stir.
Allura smiled down at the nightgown, her expression tender. "It's gorgeous and one of a kind, just like him."
He agreed wholeheartedly. "It's humbling to think you know everything there is to know about someone and suddenly find out they have this amazing hidden ability you never suspected they possessed."
"And now you understand why I kissed him."
"Yeah. I guess I can't begrudge him one," he said, adding quickly as she raised her eyebrows, "did you get that from him too?" He directed her attention to the book lying next to the gown.
"Actually, that is the book Varten gave to me before we left Althene."
"Ah yes, the one you were very happy to get."
"Yes."
She watched as Keith carefully picked up the book and tipped his head to read the title embossed on its spine. "Passions of the Heart." He shot her a look. "Very dramatic title."
"It's poetry about the many kinds of love." She was struggling to keep her composure; Keith standing next to her bed holding a book detailing the secret longings of a woman's heart was way too close a precursor to living out one of her fantasies. "I'm glad to have it to read again- the edition I once had was lost, and I hadn't come across another one until now."
Unsure of what to do next, she clasped her hands in front of her and waited for him to say something.
"Mind if I take a look inside?"
"Please do!" Despite her breezy reply, her cheeks were hot as he opened the small volume so it lay flat on his palms, revealing the pages marked by a pressed, still fragrant white lily that served as a placeholder.
He glanced at her, and acute recognition that this was the flower he had given to her in the garden at Althene was written in his expression. No spoken words but the memory, a tactile thing binding them together with transparent strands of silk.
She watched as he removed the flower with great care and held it so he could scan the words beneath.
After a moment, he turned and sat on the edge of the bed , his eyes not leaving the page. Allura glided over, the skirt of her dress billowing and draping over his thigh as she sat on his right side. She wanted to touch his mind, but she kept the desire in check. They were still in a situation of concern; she shouldn't and couldn't lose control.
"Is this poem a favorite?"
"Yes." She replied, then subsided into silence.
"It's poetry about the many kinds of love." She was struggling to keep her composure; Keith standing next to her bed holding a book detailing the secret longings of a woman's heart was way too close a precursor to living out one of her fantasies. "I'm glad to have it to read again- the edition I once had was lost, and I hadn't come across another one until now."
Unsure of what to do next, she clasped her hands in front of her and waited for him to say something.
"Mind if I take a look inside?"
"Please do!" Despite her breezy reply, her cheeks were hot as he opened the small volume so it lay flat on his palms, revealing the pages marked by a pressed, still fragrant white lily that served as a placeholder.
He glanced at her, and acute recognition that this was the flower he had given to her in the garden at Althene was written in his expression. No spoken words but the memory, a tactile thing binding them together with transparent strands of silk.
She watched as he removed the flower with great care and held it so he could scan the words beneath.
After a moment, he turned and sat on the edge of the bed , his eyes not leaving the page. Allura glided over, the skirt of her dress billowing and draping over his thigh as she sat on his right side. She wanted to touch his mind, but she kept the desire in check. They were still in a situation of concern; she shouldn't and couldn't lose control.
"Is this poem a favorite?"
"Yes." She replied, then subsided into silence.
He studied the first lines of the sonnet she had bookmarked, his expression intent, the air around him crackling and electric.
Her breath caught when he suddenly looked up.
"I'd like to hear you read this."
Heart hammering against her breast bone, she accepted the book. "A-all right."
While Keith twirled the lily between his forefinger and thumb, she inhaled, exhaled, and after smoothing a hand over the page, began to read in the quiet, melodious tones best suited to Arusian poetry.
Her voice faltered once; when he shifted his weight and his right bicep brushed her arm. The warmth that radiated from his body and the heat of his gaze upon her profile were distracting, but direct contact was a complete threat to her concentration. She sat straighter, holding perfect posture as she continued reading.
Her breath caught when he suddenly looked up.
"I'd like to hear you read this."
Heart hammering against her breast bone, she accepted the book. "A-all right."
While Keith twirled the lily between his forefinger and thumb, she inhaled, exhaled, and after smoothing a hand over the page, began to read in the quiet, melodious tones best suited to Arusian poetry.
Her voice faltered once; when he shifted his weight and his right bicep brushed her arm. The warmth that radiated from his body and the heat of his gaze upon her profile were distracting, but direct contact was a complete threat to her concentration. She sat straighter, holding perfect posture as she continued reading.
Yes yours, my love, is the right human face,
I in my mind had waited for this long
Seeing the false, and searching the true.
Then I found you as a traveler finds a place
Of welcoming suddenly amid the wrong,
Valley and rocks and twisting roads.
But you, what should I call you?
A fountain in a waste
A well of water in a country dry.
Or anything that's honest and good, an eye
That makes the whole world bright.
Your open heart simple with giving, give the primal deed,
The first good world, the blossom, the blowing seed.
The hearth, the steadfast land, the wandering sea,
Not beautiful or rare in every part
But like yourself, as they were meant to be.
I in my mind had waited for this long
Seeing the false, and searching the true.
Then I found you as a traveler finds a place
Of welcoming suddenly amid the wrong,
Valley and rocks and twisting roads.
But you, what should I call you?
A fountain in a waste
A well of water in a country dry.
Or anything that's honest and good, an eye
That makes the whole world bright.
Your open heart simple with giving, give the primal deed,
The first good world, the blossom, the blowing seed.
The hearth, the steadfast land, the wandering sea,
Not beautiful or rare in every part
But like yourself, as they were meant to be.
He watched her closely, enthralled by the sweet intonation of her voice, the emotive language and the knowledge she had kept and carefully preserved the flower he'd given her that night.
After she'd voiced the closing stanza, he took the book from her hands and set the lily back in its rightful place. Gently closing the volume, he set it aside, taking note of her downcast gaze and the taut way she held herself. Both spoke of nervous expectation; an echo of the hot rush of blood through his own veins.
"Allura." He reached out, ran his knuckles gently over the satin curve of her cheek. She swayed a little, turning towards his touch.
He inhaled the heady scent of plum blossoms, an aroma forever embedded in his mind as the essence of femininity. She looked at him, her gaze soft and trusting as a doe's. The twin curves of her lips were slightly parted, and he brushed his thumb across their fullness, enjoying her swift intake. Her eyelids lowered; her long lashes were twin fans of burnished gold resting upon porcelain cheeks.
He ran his fingers down the side of her neck and brushed them lightly across the top of her left shoulder, feeling primal satisfaction at the shiver that ran through her at his touch, which then turned to frustration that her hands remained in her lap.
He reached out for one hand, and curled his around it, stroking her palm with his thumb as he had that fateful day in her lounge. "What makes that poem a favorite?"
She demurred. "I would think the answer is obvious."
"Tell me anyway."
Her eyes were wide and blue as a cloudless sky.
"It's a favorite," she murmured, "because it's the way I feel about you."
After she'd voiced the closing stanza, he took the book from her hands and set the lily back in its rightful place. Gently closing the volume, he set it aside, taking note of her downcast gaze and the taut way she held herself. Both spoke of nervous expectation; an echo of the hot rush of blood through his own veins.
"Allura." He reached out, ran his knuckles gently over the satin curve of her cheek. She swayed a little, turning towards his touch.
He inhaled the heady scent of plum blossoms, an aroma forever embedded in his mind as the essence of femininity. She looked at him, her gaze soft and trusting as a doe's. The twin curves of her lips were slightly parted, and he brushed his thumb across their fullness, enjoying her swift intake. Her eyelids lowered; her long lashes were twin fans of burnished gold resting upon porcelain cheeks.
He ran his fingers down the side of her neck and brushed them lightly across the top of her left shoulder, feeling primal satisfaction at the shiver that ran through her at his touch, which then turned to frustration that her hands remained in her lap.
He reached out for one hand, and curled his around it, stroking her palm with his thumb as he had that fateful day in her lounge. "What makes that poem a favorite?"
She demurred. "I would think the answer is obvious."
"Tell me anyway."
Her eyes were wide and blue as a cloudless sky.
"It's a favorite," she murmured, "because it's the way I feel about you."
He took hold of both of her hands and guided them to his face.
"Touch me!"
The urgency of his words, the intensity in his eyes, compelled her to grant his wish. With trembling hands, she cupped his face, exploring its planes and hollows with her fingertips, tracing the arch of each eyebrow while admiring his absurdly long eyelashes. Finally, she reached his mouth, the ultimate prize; firm, supple, and enticingly smooth. She outlined its shape with her forefinger, paying homage to the sensuous curves of his lips.
His breath caught and released when she leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the corner of his mouth, and caught again as she nuzzled her way to a spot beneath his jawline, inhaling the subtle aroma of soap that mixed with his natural masculine scent. Once again, the tenor of his breathing increased.
Her hands flattened against the material covering his chest and the outline of the amulet concealed beneath. One hand closed over the fabric-covered stone, and the other slid up and into the silky soft hair at the nape of his neck. She grew bolder. Her lips daringly drifted across his cheek to his ear. As her fingers toyed with silky black tendrils of his hair, her exploring mouth found his earlobe.
She kissed it, and ran her lips upward, brushing them along the outer edge of his ear upwards, and back down again, leaving a trail of sensation down to the collar of the flight suit she adored, but which now was an obstacle to bringing pleasure to the strong column of his neck. She returned her attention to his earlobe and rashly gave it a nip before tasting it with her tongue.
A gritty exclamation and two muscled arms clamping about her waist was her reward.
"Touch me!"
The urgency of his words, the intensity in his eyes, compelled her to grant his wish. With trembling hands, she cupped his face, exploring its planes and hollows with her fingertips, tracing the arch of each eyebrow while admiring his absurdly long eyelashes. Finally, she reached his mouth, the ultimate prize; firm, supple, and enticingly smooth. She outlined its shape with her forefinger, paying homage to the sensuous curves of his lips.
His breath caught and released when she leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the corner of his mouth, and caught again as she nuzzled her way to a spot beneath his jawline, inhaling the subtle aroma of soap that mixed with his natural masculine scent. Once again, the tenor of his breathing increased.
Her hands flattened against the material covering his chest and the outline of the amulet concealed beneath. One hand closed over the fabric-covered stone, and the other slid up and into the silky soft hair at the nape of his neck. She grew bolder. Her lips daringly drifted across his cheek to his ear. As her fingers toyed with silky black tendrils of his hair, her exploring mouth found his earlobe.
She kissed it, and ran her lips upward, brushing them along the outer edge of his ear upwards, and back down again, leaving a trail of sensation down to the collar of the flight suit she adored, but which now was an obstacle to bringing pleasure to the strong column of his neck. She returned her attention to his earlobe and rashly gave it a nip before tasting it with her tongue.
A gritty exclamation and two muscled arms clamping about her waist was her reward.
Her passionate caresses were all the more arousing because of the innocent generosity with which they were given. A brush of her lips against his mouth, light-as-a-butterfly, was something to be savored. Her glorious hair spilled over his arms and hands, wrapping him up in its satiny strands. Her back felt warm and yielding through the stiff material of her gown as his hands slid over it, hearing in her murmur of his name an encouragement for him to continue.
He felt the heat of her breath before her petal soft lips took his more fully, her dainty tongue brushing the crevice of his mouth and the pliant flesh above and below it. She probed delicately, desiring entrance into the warm cavern. He kept them closed, intending to tease her…
But his willpower was close to non existent when it came to getting a taste of her. His lips parted and her tongue slipped inside, stroking the inner flesh of his upper lip. In an instant he felt his body harden as a wave of pleasure slashed through him. His hands left her back and tangled themselves in the golden hair framing her face, holding her head still as he took control of the kiss. His tongue delved into her mouth, tangling passionately with her own.
A moan escaped Allura, and everything ceased to exist except for the pleasurable feel of moving lips and sensual tongue play.
He felt the heat of her breath before her petal soft lips took his more fully, her dainty tongue brushing the crevice of his mouth and the pliant flesh above and below it. She probed delicately, desiring entrance into the warm cavern. He kept them closed, intending to tease her…
But his willpower was close to non existent when it came to getting a taste of her. His lips parted and her tongue slipped inside, stroking the inner flesh of his upper lip. In an instant he felt his body harden as a wave of pleasure slashed through him. His hands left her back and tangled themselves in the golden hair framing her face, holding her head still as he took control of the kiss. His tongue delved into her mouth, tangling passionately with her own.
A moan escaped Allura, and everything ceased to exist except for the pleasurable feel of moving lips and sensual tongue play.
Nanny slowed her pace as she approached the open door to Allura's bedroom. As she drew near, the soft sounds of exchanged affection were as clear as an alarm.
Making sure to stay out of sight, she inched her way along the wall until she reached the door. Silent as a space mouse, she peeked around the doorjamb, pausing to process the scene, and what action should be taken next.
The couple sat on the edge of the bed, eyes closed and mouths fervidly interlocked; bodies pressed together from shoulders to thighs in a passionate clinch. The young Captain's hands were buried in Allura's hair, which spilled wantonly over his muscular forearms. His ebony mane and muscular form was an aesthetically pleasing contrast to her delicate golden beauty; a perfect illustration for a love story.
Indeed, they were a beautiful couple, and it was clear the dashing young man had a burning passion for the Princess. As of yet, the Captain did not appear to be taking liberties that crossed the line of indiscretion. But it was inappropriate for them to be sitting on a bed, even while fully clothed. She should step in, it was the proper thing to do.
But as much as she should be interrupting this idyll, it served a purpose to have them engaged with each other. It was why she'd come here to begin with, to ensure the Princess was safely occupied so she could make her rendezvous without questions or arousing suspicion.
The Captain had taken care of that quite well, by the looks of it. By her observations, he was an honorable young man. He knew the door was open, and he would exercise restraint. If he didn't, they hadn't seen her and she could plead ignorance if questioned.
It was time to go or she'd be late.
The governess inched back from the doorway, and slipped silently away down the corridor.
Making sure to stay out of sight, she inched her way along the wall until she reached the door. Silent as a space mouse, she peeked around the doorjamb, pausing to process the scene, and what action should be taken next.
The couple sat on the edge of the bed, eyes closed and mouths fervidly interlocked; bodies pressed together from shoulders to thighs in a passionate clinch. The young Captain's hands were buried in Allura's hair, which spilled wantonly over his muscular forearms. His ebony mane and muscular form was an aesthetically pleasing contrast to her delicate golden beauty; a perfect illustration for a love story.
Indeed, they were a beautiful couple, and it was clear the dashing young man had a burning passion for the Princess. As of yet, the Captain did not appear to be taking liberties that crossed the line of indiscretion. But it was inappropriate for them to be sitting on a bed, even while fully clothed. She should step in, it was the proper thing to do.
But as much as she should be interrupting this idyll, it served a purpose to have them engaged with each other. It was why she'd come here to begin with, to ensure the Princess was safely occupied so she could make her rendezvous without questions or arousing suspicion.
The Captain had taken care of that quite well, by the looks of it. By her observations, he was an honorable young man. He knew the door was open, and he would exercise restraint. If he didn't, they hadn't seen her and she could plead ignorance if questioned.
It was time to go or she'd be late.
The governess inched back from the doorway, and slipped silently away down the corridor.
Cheddar jumped out of the uncovered air duct, landing lightly on the carpet, and, unnoticed by the room's entwined occupants, skittered over to his favorite spot. He attained his usual perch on the window seat with a mighty leap. Sitting back on his haunches, he observed with great interest as the dark haired one embraced his mistress and did his best to consume her lips with his.
The mouse shook his head and scratched one ear with a paw. It was a mystery why humans enjoyed locking mouths. It looked messy not to mention he was sure that kissing had to have its origins in cannibalism.
Whisker rubs were better and more refined.
It was difficult to say how much longer they would be doing this. He supposed there was really no hurry; the report he would give wasn't going to be helpful, other to confirm the entity was nowhere to be seen. It was good Cheesy and the children were on their way back. Hopefully they'd had more luck.
As if summoned by his thought, a female pink mouse made an appearance at the open air duct. Two smaller mice were perched on her back, hanging on for dear life. She paused to scan the room and upon spotting her mate, launched herself from the shaft to land silently on the carpet below.
Cheddar stood on his hind legs and gestured as his family ran to and then jumped up beside him on the window seat. Cheesy stared at the enraptured couple in bemusement while the children simply chattered, their version of giggling.
"Squee Squee, squeaky squeak chirpchirp?" (What is going on over there, Cheddar?) She asked.
"Squeakity Squeak, squeaky squeak, tch tch tch!" (They're in love. Courting humans like the sucking face game!)
"Squeak squeak chirpy! Squeaky squeak squeak squeakity tchy tch tch!" (It's good they're courting, but it's not appropriate for the children to watch!) Cheesy declared.
Cheddar nodded. It was time to intervene.
The mouse shook his head and scratched one ear with a paw. It was a mystery why humans enjoyed locking mouths. It looked messy not to mention he was sure that kissing had to have its origins in cannibalism.
Whisker rubs were better and more refined.
It was difficult to say how much longer they would be doing this. He supposed there was really no hurry; the report he would give wasn't going to be helpful, other to confirm the entity was nowhere to be seen. It was good Cheesy and the children were on their way back. Hopefully they'd had more luck.
As if summoned by his thought, a female pink mouse made an appearance at the open air duct. Two smaller mice were perched on her back, hanging on for dear life. She paused to scan the room and upon spotting her mate, launched herself from the shaft to land silently on the carpet below.
Cheddar stood on his hind legs and gestured as his family ran to and then jumped up beside him on the window seat. Cheesy stared at the enraptured couple in bemusement while the children simply chattered, their version of giggling.
"Squee Squee, squeaky squeak chirpchirp?" (What is going on over there, Cheddar?) She asked.
"Squeakity Squeak, squeaky squeak, tch tch tch!" (They're in love. Courting humans like the sucking face game!)
"Squeak squeak chirpy! Squeaky squeak squeak squeakity tchy tch tch!" (It's good they're courting, but it's not appropriate for the children to watch!) Cheesy declared.
Cheddar nodded. It was time to intervene.
The frantic sounds of squealing mice broke through the romantic haze. The couple, who had started to recline across the bed, quickly broke off their kiss, with Keith springing to his feet before turning to extend his hand and help Allura to hers.
She looked up as she placed her hand in his, and with guilty pleasure, he noted her flushed face, sleepy eyes, tumbled hair, and lips still swollen from his kisses. She was the picture of a woman who had been passionately kissed and had thoroughly enjoyed it.
His own face burned with a fire that matched the throbbing heat in other parts of his anatomy. Just as well they were interrupted; he thought, half in frustration, half in relief. Allura's bedroom was definitely not a safe place for a make out session; intimacy was too convenient a possibility if he ever fell over the edge of control.
"I think the mice have something to tell us." She said with solemn understatement.
Keith looked down, saw the glint of laughter in her eyes, and wanted nothing more in that moment than to kiss her again. He settled for wrapping an arm around her shoulders while the mice gave them their report.
She looked up as she placed her hand in his, and with guilty pleasure, he noted her flushed face, sleepy eyes, tumbled hair, and lips still swollen from his kisses. She was the picture of a woman who had been passionately kissed and had thoroughly enjoyed it.
His own face burned with a fire that matched the throbbing heat in other parts of his anatomy. Just as well they were interrupted; he thought, half in frustration, half in relief. Allura's bedroom was definitely not a safe place for a make out session; intimacy was too convenient a possibility if he ever fell over the edge of control.
"I think the mice have something to tell us." She said with solemn understatement.
Keith looked down, saw the glint of laughter in her eyes, and wanted nothing more in that moment than to kiss her again. He settled for wrapping an arm around her shoulders while the mice gave them their report.
"So what are your thoughts, Keith?"
He knew without asking that Allura felt as unsettled as he did. Cheddar, Cheesy and their children had tried, but the paranormal signature of the shade they had seen was nowhere to be found. There was no way to tell if it had been humanoid, or if its presence held malice or simple curiosity.
It certainly could have been a ghost of some poor soul, he thought. Not Alfor, he always made his presence known. Perhaps someone who'd served the King and Queen and died in the line of duty?
Or more likely, an illusion dreamed up by the Old Witch, up to her usual tricks.
His eyebrows drew together as he replied, "I think alerting Castle security and setting up a briefing is a priority. Truce or no truce, it'd be naïve to think Zarkon and Hagar wouldn't have any plans for mischief. Or Lotor."
The name came out through gritted teeth. Constant vigilance was in order. If Allura were left alone…
She wouldn't be.
"Princess, you could be in danger." He avoided her eyes, knowing it was the last thing she wanted to hear right now. He wasn't happy about losing their private moments together either, but her safety was his prime consideration."Therefore, I'm going to have to recommend an increase for your personal security detail." He concluded, and waited for the outburst.
"You mean, like a round the clock personal guard?" Allura asked mildly, drawing his glance of surprise. "Someone who will be with me at all times that I may need assistance?"
"Yes, exactly like that." She was taking it well. It was for the best and her safety. So why did the idea annoy him?
"The person would have to have the right qualifications," she continued, "it would have to be someone I can get along with in close company, and trust implicitly to provide vigilant and constant companionship."
"Yes," he concurred, "perhaps one of the highly trained ranking female officers?"
He knew without asking that Allura felt as unsettled as he did. Cheddar, Cheesy and their children had tried, but the paranormal signature of the shade they had seen was nowhere to be found. There was no way to tell if it had been humanoid, or if its presence held malice or simple curiosity.
It certainly could have been a ghost of some poor soul, he thought. Not Alfor, he always made his presence known. Perhaps someone who'd served the King and Queen and died in the line of duty?
Or more likely, an illusion dreamed up by the Old Witch, up to her usual tricks.
His eyebrows drew together as he replied, "I think alerting Castle security and setting up a briefing is a priority. Truce or no truce, it'd be naïve to think Zarkon and Hagar wouldn't have any plans for mischief. Or Lotor."
The name came out through gritted teeth. Constant vigilance was in order. If Allura were left alone…
She wouldn't be.
"Princess, you could be in danger." He avoided her eyes, knowing it was the last thing she wanted to hear right now. He wasn't happy about losing their private moments together either, but her safety was his prime consideration."Therefore, I'm going to have to recommend an increase for your personal security detail." He concluded, and waited for the outburst.
"You mean, like a round the clock personal guard?" Allura asked mildly, drawing his glance of surprise. "Someone who will be with me at all times that I may need assistance?"
"Yes, exactly like that." She was taking it well. It was for the best and her safety. So why did the idea annoy him?
"The person would have to have the right qualifications," she continued, "it would have to be someone I can get along with in close company, and trust implicitly to provide vigilant and constant companionship."
"Yes," he concurred, "perhaps one of the highly trained ranking female officers?"
The crackling electricity Keith was projecting was fascinating, Allura thought. He was doing the right thing even if he wasn't happy about it, and she really shouldn't tease. But feeling his elemental emotions was exciting...it was difficult to resist testing him just a little.
"I already have a particular someone in mind!" She declared. "And he will be perfect!"
"I see." His tone was cool, but his eyes sent storm signals. "So you're telling me you know a guard that you'd trust and feel comfortable with?"
"Yes! I'm absolutely certain he has what it takes to be my personal guard."
"And how did this knowledge come to pass?"
She was trying so hard not to laugh, she had to turn away.
"Allura!" He swung her around to face him. "Who is he?"
"It's you!" She said gleefully, and laughed aloud at his rapid change in expression.
"That's not the best idea, Allura." He finally said.
She gave him her sassiest smile. "If Lotor is nearby, I would feel safest with you. You have proven you will protect me. That's all the justification I need."
"Yeah, well, who's going to protect you from me?"
She stared at him. "Why would I need protection from you?"
"I'm human. Self control only goes so far. "
"That sounds like a recommendation, not a worry."
He shook his head, a small smile playing around the corners of his mouth. "You know it's not as simple as my saying I'll do it. We'd have to get it cleared with-"
His words cut off on a gasp as she hugged him. "We'll speak to Coran at once!"
"Don't be disappointed if he says no!" He warned gruffly. "I happen to know many highly qualified candidates because I've trained and sparred with them. You have to be protected by the best the castle has to offer, and that means someone who's not going to be distracted by personal relationships."
There was no need for a mind link to know that Keith was struggling with doubts about her proposed arrangement. He was returning her embrace, but his hold was a bit too rigid for enjoyment.
She gently pulled herself out of his arms, softening the withdrawal with a smile and the warmth in her words.
"The best is you. If you're with me, I'll be fine!"
"I already have a particular someone in mind!" She declared. "And he will be perfect!"
"I see." His tone was cool, but his eyes sent storm signals. "So you're telling me you know a guard that you'd trust and feel comfortable with?"
"Yes! I'm absolutely certain he has what it takes to be my personal guard."
"And how did this knowledge come to pass?"
She was trying so hard not to laugh, she had to turn away.
"Allura!" He swung her around to face him. "Who is he?"
"It's you!" She said gleefully, and laughed aloud at his rapid change in expression.
"That's not the best idea, Allura." He finally said.
She gave him her sassiest smile. "If Lotor is nearby, I would feel safest with you. You have proven you will protect me. That's all the justification I need."
"Yeah, well, who's going to protect you from me?"
She stared at him. "Why would I need protection from you?"
"I'm human. Self control only goes so far. "
"That sounds like a recommendation, not a worry."
He shook his head, a small smile playing around the corners of his mouth. "You know it's not as simple as my saying I'll do it. We'd have to get it cleared with-"
His words cut off on a gasp as she hugged him. "We'll speak to Coran at once!"
"Don't be disappointed if he says no!" He warned gruffly. "I happen to know many highly qualified candidates because I've trained and sparred with them. You have to be protected by the best the castle has to offer, and that means someone who's not going to be distracted by personal relationships."
There was no need for a mind link to know that Keith was struggling with doubts about her proposed arrangement. He was returning her embrace, but his hold was a bit too rigid for enjoyment.
She gently pulled herself out of his arms, softening the withdrawal with a smile and the warmth in her words.
"The best is you. If you're with me, I'll be fine!"
The briefing was held in Castle Control. After Keith had conveyed Cheddar's report on the entity, teams had been dispatched to all corridors of the castle to scan for anomalies with orders to report back to the Royal Advisor. The male members of the Voltron Force gathered around the command console to wait for news and the Princess's return from seeing to a forgotten duty.
"We have been unable to pick anything up on any kind of scan." Concern was heavy in Coran's voice as he studied the data. "I've combed through all reports and surveillance videos. Not a wisp of an image has materialized."
"Maybe it's part vampire." Lance remarked. He turned and met Keith's eyes. "Whatever it is, I'd say it's got the stench of a Lotor scheme."
Keith nodded, looking grim. "It's got to have something to do with him. He's stayed away for too long."
"Yeah, we all know he's gotta have his Princess fix," Hunk interjected, his rough voice carrying an extra edge, "he's probably sent something creepy to spy on her!" He smacked a fist into his palm. "Let me at him! Truce or not, I'll teach Lotor what happens to Peeping Toms!"
"I think we should let Nanny have a whack at him." Pidge declared. "That big head of his will make a nice big dent in her number ten skillet!"
"Speaking of Nanny, I'm wondering why she hasn't answered my summons," Coran remarked with a frown, "she's been unavailable for quite a while now."
"I'm sure she'll be along." Lance said quickly.
"Probably helping the Princess." Hunk agreed.
Pidge put his hands behind his head and rubbed it. Was Nanny being distracted from her duties because of her love interest? Should he say anything? He honestly didn't want to get her in trouble. But if it ended up being a security risk, and he didn't say anything, then-
Before he could make a decision, the doors to Castle Control opened and Nanny and the Princess joined the meeting.
"What did I tell you?" Lance said to Coran. The older man nodded, but his eyes narrowed thoughtfully at seeing the demeanor of the governess; a quick inspection showed her precisely starched white collar was slightly askew, her hair had been loosened, and her usual white cap was missing.
Seeing a relaxed Nanny perplexed Pidge even more. Was this act the eye of the storm where she was merely biding her time before blowing up and spouting off? Or were things really going that great with the gardener? Now that he looked closely, she was kinda disheveled, like she'd been doing something...was that a leaf in her hair?
An involuntary shudder went through him and he quickly shut down the train of thought. Imagining Nanny having a love life was like thinking about your parents doing it; you knew it had to have happened, but you didn't want to know where or when.
"Anything new to report?" Allura asked hopefully.
Her face clouded at the collective negative shaking of heads.
"We will continue surveillance of the castle and grounds." Coran informed her. "And until we can confirm what we're dealing with, it's imperative to have extra security assigned to you, Princess."
"I understand, and I agree."
"We have been unable to pick anything up on any kind of scan." Concern was heavy in Coran's voice as he studied the data. "I've combed through all reports and surveillance videos. Not a wisp of an image has materialized."
"Maybe it's part vampire." Lance remarked. He turned and met Keith's eyes. "Whatever it is, I'd say it's got the stench of a Lotor scheme."
Keith nodded, looking grim. "It's got to have something to do with him. He's stayed away for too long."
"Yeah, we all know he's gotta have his Princess fix," Hunk interjected, his rough voice carrying an extra edge, "he's probably sent something creepy to spy on her!" He smacked a fist into his palm. "Let me at him! Truce or not, I'll teach Lotor what happens to Peeping Toms!"
"I think we should let Nanny have a whack at him." Pidge declared. "That big head of his will make a nice big dent in her number ten skillet!"
"Speaking of Nanny, I'm wondering why she hasn't answered my summons," Coran remarked with a frown, "she's been unavailable for quite a while now."
"I'm sure she'll be along." Lance said quickly.
"Probably helping the Princess." Hunk agreed.
Pidge put his hands behind his head and rubbed it. Was Nanny being distracted from her duties because of her love interest? Should he say anything? He honestly didn't want to get her in trouble. But if it ended up being a security risk, and he didn't say anything, then-
Before he could make a decision, the doors to Castle Control opened and Nanny and the Princess joined the meeting.
"What did I tell you?" Lance said to Coran. The older man nodded, but his eyes narrowed thoughtfully at seeing the demeanor of the governess; a quick inspection showed her precisely starched white collar was slightly askew, her hair had been loosened, and her usual white cap was missing.
Seeing a relaxed Nanny perplexed Pidge even more. Was this act the eye of the storm where she was merely biding her time before blowing up and spouting off? Or were things really going that great with the gardener? Now that he looked closely, she was kinda disheveled, like she'd been doing something...was that a leaf in her hair?
An involuntary shudder went through him and he quickly shut down the train of thought. Imagining Nanny having a love life was like thinking about your parents doing it; you knew it had to have happened, but you didn't want to know where or when.
"Anything new to report?" Allura asked hopefully.
Her face clouded at the collective negative shaking of heads.
"We will continue surveillance of the castle and grounds." Coran informed her. "And until we can confirm what we're dealing with, it's imperative to have extra security assigned to you, Princess."
"I understand, and I agree."
It was curious and a complete surprise, Coran thought, to hear Allura's immediate and unquestioning assent to his statement. An even bigger one followed when the Royal Governess didn't voice her opinion on the matter. Given this was the kind of situation that normally sparked Hannah's rants about Doom and incompetent hooligans failing to protect her baby, seeing this calm acceptance was perplexing to say the least. In fact, her expression was downright disturbing; though he wasn't a fan of hysterics, it distressed him more to see a lack of concern.
Something was not right with this picture.
Coupled with a code of honor and gentlemanly respect, the use of mind connection without consent wasn't an option he'd chosen to use in the past. Quite honestly, up until now he'd never had to resort to empathetic technique with Hannah to sense what she was feeling- she was open and quite skilled at telling him what was on her mind.
But now, he could tell something was amiss. She was closer to the Princess than any of them...if she'd had some kind of breakdown, he needed to know.
Carefully, discreetly, he reached out, bracing himself for the battering force of her emotions; it was highly likely they'd push back at him as much as her verbal expressions of them would. But what he found was no sense of self or emotion. Emptiness, as if he'd entered a sterile corridor and come up against a wall. Silence, and blankness.
Was this her defense mechanism? Had she learned how to block? He couldn't have gotten so rusty with his techniques that he couldn't breach a barrier. He pushed harder at the wall. All he needed was to make a crack, and it would begin to crumble. She'd never seemed interested in being secretive before. And how odd that she hadn't reacted to his attempt- he wasn't being subtle, and she should be scolding him at this point!
How far would he have to go? The strain was greater than he remembered…
"Coran? Are you feeling all right?"
As Keith's voice penetrated his concentration, he abandoned his attempts to break through the wall, leaving it intact as he withdrew from Hannah's mind. Her expression never changed; clearly she had no inkling of what had just transpired.
Or maybe she did. Perhaps the wall was her way of telling him to mind his own business.
The older man sighed and addressed his questioner.
"Apologies, I was just thinking on who to select as a bodyguard for Allura... I will go at once and review the service records for the royal guardsmen-"
Keith interrupted. "With all due respect sir, I have someone to suggest."
"Excellent! Who is it?"
"Myself."
The Royal Advisor's eyebrows shot up. "You're volunteering for guard duty?"
"Yes sir. As you said, we don't know at this point what we're dealing with, so I think discretion is key to not causing undue alarm and speculation. It wouldn't be as obvious the Princess has extra security since people expect to see one of us with her, and it'll be easier for her to act like nothing is wrong with someone she knows. I'm experienced in dealing with Lotor, I know how he operates. If it is him behind this, it's best to have someone who's familiar with his fighting techniques."
"Hey, I've fought Lotor too!" Lance protested. "Would have beat him, but my sword got stuck to that magnetized rock!"
"A small miscalculation that got you knocked off a castle ledge." Keith retorted.
Lance shrugged. "I survived. And I learn from my mistakes." He eyed his best friend. "I seem to remember you got slashed by his laser sword because you were distracted."
"I learn from mistakes too. Won't happen again!"
Something was not right with this picture.
Coupled with a code of honor and gentlemanly respect, the use of mind connection without consent wasn't an option he'd chosen to use in the past. Quite honestly, up until now he'd never had to resort to empathetic technique with Hannah to sense what she was feeling- she was open and quite skilled at telling him what was on her mind.
But now, he could tell something was amiss. She was closer to the Princess than any of them...if she'd had some kind of breakdown, he needed to know.
Carefully, discreetly, he reached out, bracing himself for the battering force of her emotions; it was highly likely they'd push back at him as much as her verbal expressions of them would. But what he found was no sense of self or emotion. Emptiness, as if he'd entered a sterile corridor and come up against a wall. Silence, and blankness.
Was this her defense mechanism? Had she learned how to block? He couldn't have gotten so rusty with his techniques that he couldn't breach a barrier. He pushed harder at the wall. All he needed was to make a crack, and it would begin to crumble. She'd never seemed interested in being secretive before. And how odd that she hadn't reacted to his attempt- he wasn't being subtle, and she should be scolding him at this point!
How far would he have to go? The strain was greater than he remembered…
"Coran? Are you feeling all right?"
As Keith's voice penetrated his concentration, he abandoned his attempts to break through the wall, leaving it intact as he withdrew from Hannah's mind. Her expression never changed; clearly she had no inkling of what had just transpired.
Or maybe she did. Perhaps the wall was her way of telling him to mind his own business.
The older man sighed and addressed his questioner.
"Apologies, I was just thinking on who to select as a bodyguard for Allura... I will go at once and review the service records for the royal guardsmen-"
Keith interrupted. "With all due respect sir, I have someone to suggest."
"Excellent! Who is it?"
"Myself."
The Royal Advisor's eyebrows shot up. "You're volunteering for guard duty?"
"Yes sir. As you said, we don't know at this point what we're dealing with, so I think discretion is key to not causing undue alarm and speculation. It wouldn't be as obvious the Princess has extra security since people expect to see one of us with her, and it'll be easier for her to act like nothing is wrong with someone she knows. I'm experienced in dealing with Lotor, I know how he operates. If it is him behind this, it's best to have someone who's familiar with his fighting techniques."
"Hey, I've fought Lotor too!" Lance protested. "Would have beat him, but my sword got stuck to that magnetized rock!"
"A small miscalculation that got you knocked off a castle ledge." Keith retorted.
Lance shrugged. "I survived. And I learn from my mistakes." He eyed his best friend. "I seem to remember you got slashed by his laser sword because you were distracted."
"I learn from mistakes too. Won't happen again!"
Coran observed the two glowering young men with a cautious expression. The Captain had come up with pragmatic, more than plausible explanations for his volunteering to guard the Princess, but he was certain it was also a personal desire. Lance clearly knew that as well. It was impossible to miss the territorial nature of the beasts within; this was Red Lion challenging the alpha Black Lion for the right to protect the female of their pride. Lance felt he had something to prove, and Keith would not want another man guarding what he considered his.
As for his Royal Ward- she was studiously avoiding his gaze, which was all the confirmation he needed as to who had planted the seed of this particular idea. Dealing with the hidden anomaly was a serious matter, and he was confident Allura saw it as such. But as a woman, she would certainly see it as a chance for fostering romantic intentions with Keith.
He couldn't blame the child- no, he corrected himself, Allura wasn't a child. She was a young woman who deserved love and had much love to give in return. Still... there could be unpleasant consequences arising from allowing Keith extended close proximity. The Princess must not be compromised in any way in the eyes of her people or the Alliance; an adult relationship without marriage or approval was courting unrest and criticism from those who were in a position to undermine her authority. It was his job to protect her reputation…
As the thought occurred, a spark of light drew his eyes to the blue amulet around the throat of the Princess, and a low, feminine growl sounded in his mind.
She is the one to unite all. You have the power to help or hinder the bonding. Choose wisely.
Coran swallowed hard, and his lips compressed beneath his luxuriant mustache. This was not the time to express certain emotions, but they came close to breaking loose after a glance at the Princess, whose compassionate gaze told him she was aware of the communication between her human and feline guardians.
He could feel peace and warmth flowing from her; her presence was a gentle hug for the soul.
Was he so caught up in appearances that he'd question the will of the Lions to protect all he held dear?
The words of Blue Lion humbled him even as they unlocked the deeply held hope that Voltron would finally be able to put an end to the source of evil that had besieged Arus for so long. They were proof of the unshakable bond between Blue Lion and Allura, and presented a mandate to him on whether to nurture or hinder the lion bonds that would follow hers.
Free will was power.
Power should be used for the benefit of all.
His next declaration rang with certainty in that belief.
"Captain, I concur with the reasons you've presented, and I hereby appoint you as the Princess's personal guard until further notice."
As for his Royal Ward- she was studiously avoiding his gaze, which was all the confirmation he needed as to who had planted the seed of this particular idea. Dealing with the hidden anomaly was a serious matter, and he was confident Allura saw it as such. But as a woman, she would certainly see it as a chance for fostering romantic intentions with Keith.
He couldn't blame the child- no, he corrected himself, Allura wasn't a child. She was a young woman who deserved love and had much love to give in return. Still... there could be unpleasant consequences arising from allowing Keith extended close proximity. The Princess must not be compromised in any way in the eyes of her people or the Alliance; an adult relationship without marriage or approval was courting unrest and criticism from those who were in a position to undermine her authority. It was his job to protect her reputation…
As the thought occurred, a spark of light drew his eyes to the blue amulet around the throat of the Princess, and a low, feminine growl sounded in his mind.
She is the one to unite all. You have the power to help or hinder the bonding. Choose wisely.
Coran swallowed hard, and his lips compressed beneath his luxuriant mustache. This was not the time to express certain emotions, but they came close to breaking loose after a glance at the Princess, whose compassionate gaze told him she was aware of the communication between her human and feline guardians.
He could feel peace and warmth flowing from her; her presence was a gentle hug for the soul.
Was he so caught up in appearances that he'd question the will of the Lions to protect all he held dear?
The words of Blue Lion humbled him even as they unlocked the deeply held hope that Voltron would finally be able to put an end to the source of evil that had besieged Arus for so long. They were proof of the unshakable bond between Blue Lion and Allura, and presented a mandate to him on whether to nurture or hinder the lion bonds that would follow hers.
Free will was power.
Power should be used for the benefit of all.
His next declaration rang with certainty in that belief.
"Captain, I concur with the reasons you've presented, and I hereby appoint you as the Princess's personal guard until further notice."
Coran wasn't the kind of man to make snap decisions. Indeed, he'd deliberated (some might say waffled) at length on many issues regarding the use and deployment of the Voltron Force, especially with regards to the Princess. And now, with no deliberation or discussion, the man had agreed to what previously would have been an unthinkable arrangement.
It was amazing. And disconcerting. Keith assumed what he hoped was a stoic expression; no easy task given his racing thoughts about the implications of the situation. Coran trusting him enough to make him a personal bodyguard of the Princess? That was probably as close as Coran would ever get to saying he approved of him as a partner for her.
After a few seconds, he risked a look at Allura. Her expression was anything but stoic, and her eyes reflected the delight in her smile.
He had to look away to maintain his composure.
It was amazing. And disconcerting. Keith assumed what he hoped was a stoic expression; no easy task given his racing thoughts about the implications of the situation. Coran trusting him enough to make him a personal bodyguard of the Princess? That was probably as close as Coran would ever get to saying he approved of him as a partner for her.
After a few seconds, he risked a look at Allura. Her expression was anything but stoic, and her eyes reflected the delight in her smile.
He had to look away to maintain his composure.
Coran was aware of the stares of Hunk, Lance and Pidge as he'd given clearance to Keith, and although it didn't change how he felt about his decision, it still was a cause for concern. Team morale was important, and if the others felt Keith was favored above all, it could affect the unity needed to bring out the full power of Voltron.
The expressions of the three young pilots ranged from preoccupied to downright perplexed. Had the Captain's request aroused suspicions of a relationship having developed? Perhaps teasing or speculative commentary would commence as soon as the surprise factor wore off. Whatever was said first would give him the blueprint for dealing with hurt feelings.
But Nanny chose that moment to speak for the first time, negating the chance to gauge anyone's reaction.
"Now that this decision has been made, please come to dinner. My dumplings are best served hot and steaming, and they vill be cold if you dilly-dally!"
As she cast a stern look around the group, Coran had to smile. Whatever it was causing her odd behavior of late, the Hannah that he knew was still present.
And yet, he couldn't help thinking about what lay beyond that wall she'd built, and what he'd find if it crumbled.
The expressions of the three young pilots ranged from preoccupied to downright perplexed. Had the Captain's request aroused suspicions of a relationship having developed? Perhaps teasing or speculative commentary would commence as soon as the surprise factor wore off. Whatever was said first would give him the blueprint for dealing with hurt feelings.
But Nanny chose that moment to speak for the first time, negating the chance to gauge anyone's reaction.
"Now that this decision has been made, please come to dinner. My dumplings are best served hot and steaming, and they vill be cold if you dilly-dally!"
As she cast a stern look around the group, Coran had to smile. Whatever it was causing her odd behavior of late, the Hannah that he knew was still present.
And yet, he couldn't help thinking about what lay beyond that wall she'd built, and what he'd find if it crumbled.
Supper was a pleasant if somewhat subdued gathering. Everyone concentrated on eating, and any conversation focused on what unknown entity might be lurking in their midst.
"This is a stupendous meal, Nanny! One of your best!" Hunk enthused, when his plate had been emptied for a second time.
Nanny smiled at him. "Thank you Hunk, you are most kind to say so. I haf made plenty, vould you like more?"
"Really? That would-" Hunk stopped, and regarded the older woman with a bemused expression. What was she playing at, offering him extra rations? He shouldn't have had seconds, let alone thirds! Didn't Nanny care about his health, for crying out loud? If he was going to fit into Yellow Lion's cockpit, he needed to watch his intake! "I'll have to take a pass on thirds, Nanny," he sighed, "but thanks!"
"As you vish," the older woman said pleasantly as she cleared away his dishes.
Glances were exchanged around the table.
"Is he sick?" Keith wondered.
"Reverse psychology," muttered Pidge. "Clever."
Lance whispered loudly, "It's because the hot place is freezing over!"
He winked at Allura, whose giggle was stifled by a loud buzz.
Frowning, the Royal Advisor dabbed at his mustache with his napkin before tapping his communicator to open a channel.
"This is Coran. Go ahead, Castle Control."
"It's Guardsman Randall, sir. Sorry to bother you at dinner. There's a transmission coming in; not a distress call, but the matter has some urgency..."
"What is the origin?"
"Sir, I can't get a fix on the location, but I can tell you who it is that's calling, and that they're most insistent on talking to the Captain of the Voltron Force."
Keith exchanged an uneasy glance with Allura as Coran replied, "We shall see about that. Who is it?"
"Queen Merla, sir. And if I may, sir, she says to tell you she doesn't take well to being kept waiting."
"This is a stupendous meal, Nanny! One of your best!" Hunk enthused, when his plate had been emptied for a second time.
Nanny smiled at him. "Thank you Hunk, you are most kind to say so. I haf made plenty, vould you like more?"
"Really? That would-" Hunk stopped, and regarded the older woman with a bemused expression. What was she playing at, offering him extra rations? He shouldn't have had seconds, let alone thirds! Didn't Nanny care about his health, for crying out loud? If he was going to fit into Yellow Lion's cockpit, he needed to watch his intake! "I'll have to take a pass on thirds, Nanny," he sighed, "but thanks!"
"As you vish," the older woman said pleasantly as she cleared away his dishes.
Glances were exchanged around the table.
"Is he sick?" Keith wondered.
"Reverse psychology," muttered Pidge. "Clever."
Lance whispered loudly, "It's because the hot place is freezing over!"
He winked at Allura, whose giggle was stifled by a loud buzz.
Frowning, the Royal Advisor dabbed at his mustache with his napkin before tapping his communicator to open a channel.
"This is Coran. Go ahead, Castle Control."
"It's Guardsman Randall, sir. Sorry to bother you at dinner. There's a transmission coming in; not a distress call, but the matter has some urgency..."
"What is the origin?"
"Sir, I can't get a fix on the location, but I can tell you who it is that's calling, and that they're most insistent on talking to the Captain of the Voltron Force."
Keith exchanged an uneasy glance with Allura as Coran replied, "We shall see about that. Who is it?"
"Queen Merla, sir. And if I may, sir, she says to tell you she doesn't take well to being kept waiting."
Circling Vultures
Keith made the sprint down to Castle Control in record time, with the rest of his team following right on his heels.
There was a certain amount of apprehension in the realization that a former enemy was asking to speak with him.
And he was certain Allura shared his misgivings as to what this communication could involve.
The Queen of Mean; a fierce warrior with a beauty that appeared as cold and remote as her heart had once been. She'd been a fearsome name in the galaxy, a formidable foe in battle. She wasn't anyone's stooge, and when forging an alliance with her, she had brought strategic insights, common sense and intelligence that had been utterly lacking in Doom's machinations.
A queen in her own right, the reasoning for agreeing to unite her domain with Doom by marrying the boorish son of Zarkon was subject to speculation. Merla wasn't anything close to a shrinking violet or a helpless puppet. If he were to make an educated guess, Keith would say the arranged marriage had been a gambit to empower herself while ensuring her planet would avoid being stripped of its resources.
Word was that Merla had ingratiated herself quickly, and had become a favorite of Zarkon's. The evil monarch still had an eye for beautiful women, though well past the age of being able to do anything but look or enjoy the occasional back scratch. Zarkon demanded attention and tribute, and Merla had willingly played to the King's vanity.
That alone would have damned her in Hagar's eyes. The old witch immediately despised any female attractive enough to catch the King’s attention. It was even worse if she had his ear; most who managed to gain entry into Zarkon’s inner circle soon ended up dead, or worse, a robeast. But the Queen had also proven herself a useful and strategic ally for Zarkon- which made Merla an untouchable target. Hagar was smart enough not to openly challenge Merla, but her dislike for the Queen wasn't a secret. Frenemies at best and despised rivals at worst; Zarkon had clearly enjoyed playing the two women against each other.
And Lotor? Well, Keith had seen the Prince of Doom play the part of a dutiful heir, attentive fiance and comrade in arms. He'd wager Lotor and the Queen had most likely become lovers. Merla was no innocent, and could have held her own in that department, but still...the stories of Lotor's other conquests were brutal, and given his preference for brutality as fun…
Keith mentally shuddered.
The union hadn't lasted, of course; another thing Lotor had screwed up, just like his plan to become good. His ambition, his obsessions and his greed, running unchecked, didn't allow room for a genuine relationship.
Right after her divorce from Lotor, Merla had withdrawn from being a player on the universal stage. According to Garrison intelligence, she had made strides in her vow to become a just and compassionate ruler. But those last reports were several months old, and there was no first hand way of ascertaining if the conclusions were still valid.
Did she need help? Or had she regressed to her old bad habits?
There was only one way to find out.
Keith made the sprint down to Castle Control in record time, with the rest of his team following right on his heels.
There was a certain amount of apprehension in the realization that a former enemy was asking to speak with him.
And he was certain Allura shared his misgivings as to what this communication could involve.
The Queen of Mean; a fierce warrior with a beauty that appeared as cold and remote as her heart had once been. She'd been a fearsome name in the galaxy, a formidable foe in battle. She wasn't anyone's stooge, and when forging an alliance with her, she had brought strategic insights, common sense and intelligence that had been utterly lacking in Doom's machinations.
A queen in her own right, the reasoning for agreeing to unite her domain with Doom by marrying the boorish son of Zarkon was subject to speculation. Merla wasn't anything close to a shrinking violet or a helpless puppet. If he were to make an educated guess, Keith would say the arranged marriage had been a gambit to empower herself while ensuring her planet would avoid being stripped of its resources.
Word was that Merla had ingratiated herself quickly, and had become a favorite of Zarkon's. The evil monarch still had an eye for beautiful women, though well past the age of being able to do anything but look or enjoy the occasional back scratch. Zarkon demanded attention and tribute, and Merla had willingly played to the King's vanity.
That alone would have damned her in Hagar's eyes. The old witch immediately despised any female attractive enough to catch the King’s attention. It was even worse if she had his ear; most who managed to gain entry into Zarkon’s inner circle soon ended up dead, or worse, a robeast. But the Queen had also proven herself a useful and strategic ally for Zarkon- which made Merla an untouchable target. Hagar was smart enough not to openly challenge Merla, but her dislike for the Queen wasn't a secret. Frenemies at best and despised rivals at worst; Zarkon had clearly enjoyed playing the two women against each other.
And Lotor? Well, Keith had seen the Prince of Doom play the part of a dutiful heir, attentive fiance and comrade in arms. He'd wager Lotor and the Queen had most likely become lovers. Merla was no innocent, and could have held her own in that department, but still...the stories of Lotor's other conquests were brutal, and given his preference for brutality as fun…
Keith mentally shuddered.
The union hadn't lasted, of course; another thing Lotor had screwed up, just like his plan to become good. His ambition, his obsessions and his greed, running unchecked, didn't allow room for a genuine relationship.
Right after her divorce from Lotor, Merla had withdrawn from being a player on the universal stage. According to Garrison intelligence, she had made strides in her vow to become a just and compassionate ruler. But those last reports were several months old, and there was no first hand way of ascertaining if the conclusions were still valid.
Did she need help? Or had she regressed to her old bad habits?
There was only one way to find out.
Allura focused on maintaining even breathing as she ran, and reminded herself to maintain calm. A declaration of hostilities was highly unlikely; the dreadful memories of past encounters that were buzzing through her head weren't indicative of the current status between her world and Queen Merla's.
Merla had helped the Voltron Force defeat Zarkon- or at least what they had thought had been Zarkon. Unfortunately, Prince Lotor had revealed the King to be his henchman Cossack in disguise. Both Lotor and Merla had said they wanted to change, to join the side of good and help Voltron fight for what was right. It even appeared the couple had reconciled and were planning a real wedding. Despite all the terrible things they'd done and been a part of as minions of Doom, Allura had been thankful for the unlikely alliance and felt a genuine happiness for their changes of heart.
But that happiness had been short-lived. The anguish in Merla's eyes when Lotor's conversion to goodness had been revealed as a cruel hoax...the lines of pain etched in the Queen's savagely beautiful face...it had been heartrending to see. Heartbreak like that could not be feigned, and after bearing witness to such torment, it was difficult for Allura to see Merla as the same woman who'd tried to scatter her atoms in an effort to take over as ruler of Arus.
Having this viewpoint didn't mean she was the naive goody-goody the pink haired villainess had once accused her of being. Merla may have become good, but past gossip had made it clear the Queen had a penchant for handsome young men who knew how to wield a sword. Being good didn't mean the lady was celibate! Asking for a personal chat with Captain Keith did carry potential for mischief making that involved compromising positions and broken relationships...
The group had reached the doors to Castle Control, and as they slid open, the security officer seated at the communications console jumped to his feet and saluted. "Your Majesty! Captain and sirs!"
Keith took up position next to him, with Allura, Coran, Hunk, Pidge and Lance closing ranks behind.
"Please have a seat Mr. Randall." Allura said kindly, noting the man's sweaty brow. "Are you all right? Do you need some water?"
"Thank you, Your Majesty, I'm fine. I'm very sorry for interrupting your meal."
"Don't worry about that! You did the right thing. And Queen Merla can be a handful."
"Is she still there?" Asked Keith.
Randall checked his monitor. "She did threaten to cut the connection if she had to wait for too long, but it appears I've still got her on standby, sir. She's there, but can't hear or see us until I open the channel."
"Has she given any indication as to the nature of her call?"
"Nothing specific sir, save that it was a matter of great interest and some urgency."
Keith raised his eyebrows as he looked at Coran. "Would you like to address her? You're the expert when it comes to diplomatic matters."
"She asked for you." The older man replied slowly. "The best diplomacy is for me to defer."
Keith glanced at Allura, and when she gave a nod, he turned back to the screen. "All right, Randall. Patch us in."
In a moment, the image of Queen Merla flickered to life upon the large screen in front of them. Apparently unaware of the opened connection, she was partially turned away from the viewer, showing her exotic profile to advantage as she spoke with someone off camera.
While Randall deftly adjusted the audio settings on the console, Keith studied the woman who had once been known as the Queen of Mean. An intricately wrought golden tiara adorned her head and her battle corset and armor plated skirt had been replaced by a flowing Grecian style gown that showcased her toned arms and a tasteful amount of cleavage. Her sharp-eyed and loyal vulture was perched upon her shoulder, a satin cloth clutched beneath one clawed foot as the other provided anchor to the long plait of hair that dangled over Merla's shoulder.
The residential background of tapestries and fine furnishings, and the chaise lounge the Queen was seated upon was another surprise.
She was calling from her personal quarters instead of the cabin of a space ship?
He hoped the setting, lack of armor and her comfortable seating were indications this was a call that was friendly.
"We've got audio." Randall announced. "Go ahead, Captain."
There was a humming sound, and then the Queen's voice filled the room as she addressed an unseen person."That will be all Venetia-oh wait! I will also require the soothing oils. Bikini waxes are hell, but hopefully these new ointments prevent those ghastly ingrown hairs-"
Keith coughed, attracting the the Queen's attention. She turned quickly, and her catlike eyes widened.
"Captain Keith! How very lovely it is to see you! My goodness, I do believe you've been working out. You've filled out nicely since we last talked..."
Her voice was a sultry purr, and she made no effort to hide that she was taking pleasure in the sight of the pilot's well formed physique.
Feeling the heat of Allura's gaze upon him, Keith tried to hide his blush with a formal bow. "Your Highness. We're pleased to hear from you as well."
"We? I thought I asked for a private-" Merla broke off as Keith stepped back to allow her a view of his companions. "Princess Allura, hello! Oh look, you've brought your entire team and the old man too! How delightful!"
The onlookers admired Coran's poise and apparent imperviousness to needling, as the Royal Diplomat bowed. "Warm greetings, Your Majesty. Please pardon our intrusion, but we wanted to be certain you weren't in distress."
"Why would you think that I was?" The Queen sat forward, deliberately displaying more of her lush cleavage. Her unblinking gaze focused on Coran, daring him to look.
"Wow." Hunk whispered to Lance. "She's what you'd call a live wire."
Lance gave a soft snort. "One that'll burn you, that's for sure."
Coran kept his gaze at eye level. "It has been quite awhile since we've had word of your health or conditions on your planet."
The Queen sighed, sat back, and the thigh-high slit in her dress parted as she crossed her long, shapely legs. "Conditions are much better thanks to reforms and aid to the poor. And as for me...do I look distressed?"
"Not at all."
"Sickly? Haggard? Careworn?"
"Not at all. You are radiant."
Merla looked surprised, then genuinely pleased. "I don't recall ever hearing that word used in relation to myself. I'd forgotten what a silver tongued diplomat you are, Coran."
"Diplomacy has no bearing in this assessment, only truth. And I apologize if I've offended you by suggesting you looked otherwise."
Merla's laugh was throaty and sensual. "You sly old dog, are you flirting with me? Best be careful, I just may decide I'm into older men!"
Coran's mouth opened, but he appeared to be at a loss.
"We were getting concerned," Allura said, coming to her guardian's rescue, "because we hadn't heard from you since your divorce from Lotor."
"Yes, yes, I suppose I have been rather anti-social." Merla shrugged one slender, blue-skinned shoulder. "I wasn't in a good way when last we parted. I thought it best if you didn't hear from me until I got myself together. The end of a relationship must be be mourned."
Allura nodded. "Wounds of the heart cut the deepest, and they need time to heal."
Merla blinked- for the first time since the conversation began, Allura thought- and stroked the head of her feathered pet, who preened under her attentions. "Yes. Well. After that fiasco wrought by my despicable ex, I also thought it best I took time to reflect on my poor decisions."
"I'm not prone to extended introspection, so it's been a difficult time. It would have been easy to take out my foul mood on others, but why punish innocents for what he did to me? The best response- or revenge, if you will- is to stay good and reject his evil."
Allura nodded. "If it would help to have someone to talk to, I would be honored to count you as my friend."
"The woman that I once tried to banish to another dimension wants to help me get over a bad breakup? By Old Hagar's warts, child, you are too good to be true!" The Queen's chuckle held incredulity, and she paused, seeming to consider her words before continuing in a warm tone, "and you are sincere, and genuinely kind. I thank you. But I fear the reason I'm calling dictates that I'm going to be the one who's helping you."
Allura's smile waned at the grimness in Merla's face. "You are?"
"That sounds like a warning." Keith interjected.
"Indeed, it is. It was a problem I'd hoped to take care of it myself, but..." Merla gave another elegant shrug, "circumstance being what they are, I'm not able to neutralize the threat to your Princess."
"Was there some reason you didn't want my team to know about this?" Keith asked, frowning.
"I know how highly you think of Allura and how protective you are, so I thought I'd speak with you first." Merla smiled. "And quite honestly, I fancied the chance to experience an intimate chat with my favorite Space Captain without having to play the role of Evil Queen."
Keith ignored the subtle innuendo. "So Allura is in imminent danger?"
"Imminent, yes. Immediate...well, I cannot say for certain. My people acquired some intelligence, you see." She took a deep breath, seeming to enjoy having an audience hanging on her every word.
"This intelligence has been verified. It indicated Narfello of Anthraxia has taken a contract..."
"Contract?" Keith prodded, growing impatient as the Queen paused once more. "What kind of contract?"
"...for the kidnapping of one Arusian Princess!"
The Queen sat back and listened to the exclamations of dismay from her listeners.
"Who or what is Narfello?" Keith asked sharply.
"A loathsome purveyor of goods who has dedicated himself to funding the art of war. The province he governs has been a source of fuel and arms for every evil empire in this and nearby galaxies." Merla's words dripped with contempt. "Calling him unscrupulous is understating his business policies. Honor plays no part in his dealings, and he digs deeper into the muck by trafficking in humans."
Keith's jaw clenched. "And no government thinks to stop him?"
"They are paid handsomely to turn a blind eye. It's no secret that Anthraxia harbors the scum of the galaxy cloaked within the guises of tourism and commerce." Merla's voice softened to a note of concern. "And now, your Princess is its most highly sought prize. I'm told her virginity alone will bring a price beyond compare."
Allura paled. "Oh!"
"We'll take him down!" Pidge snapped. "The guy can't be too bright if he thinks he can take on the Voltron Force!"
Merla chuckled derisively. "Oh, he's reasonably bright! And usually a coward- he has minions aplenty to do his dirty work. My people tell me he's desperate to recoup recent losses; the Arusian truce with Doom has put a serious crimp in his profits- no war, big drop in demand for arms."
The Queen's lips compressed, and her tone grew hard. "Along with a formidable cache of mercenaries, Narfello has a well honed sense of self preservation. When trouble arises, he hides better than a lone spider in a mountain full of crevices! Desperate, cowardly men are the most dangerous, and I'm sure he feels the price he'll charge makes it worth the risk. It would be foolish to underestimate him!"
"Price is irrelevant!" Lance exclaimed. His steely gaze zeroed in on the Queen's heavily be-ringed hand, which had stopped stroking the vulture and now clutched her braid. "You think he's going to try and sell her to Lotor, don't you?"
Merla looked away while the vulture ruffled its feathers and tucked its head under a wing. "That is speculation, and I have no proof! I only know that Narfello has arrangements for a contract kidnapping. And, as I said, has ample resources at his command, including magical ones that were exposed by my failed attempts to dissuade him from his plan."
"The shadowy intruder." Coran murmured.
Keith nodded. "How much do you want to bet it's tied in with this?"
Coran made a sound of affirmation before addressing the Queen. "Your Majesty, by alerting us to this danger, you have done Planet Arus a great service. For that, and attempting to curtail it, you have our deepest gratitude."
"The Voltron Force assisted me when I had caused them nothing but pain. It is the least I can do to make amends." The Queen's full lips twisted into a wry smile. "I wish I could have brought an end to the threat. It was all I could do to obtain the intelligence, as it seems I'm no longer welcome in villainous circles."
"I'm just so pleased that you didn't change your decision to be good," Allura said quietly. "That is enough reward in itself."
"The actions and opinions of the spawn of Doom have no influence over me, nor will they in future." The Queen replied. "It's not easy changing the bad habits of many years, but I have found one positive use for my free time." A mysterious smile curved her lips.
"Something that is fun and relaxing, I hope." The Princess said, smiling back.
"It has been so far. Writing a book, that is. A work of fiction, actually." Merla's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "I understand you're an avid reader, Allura. If you'd be willing and have the time to give me feedback, it would be helpful to get a perspective that's fresh and honest."
"How in the world would she know that?" Pidge whispered to Hunk.
"Not sure, little buddy." Hunk replied, looking uneasy. "Lucky guess?"
"Of course I have the time!" Allura beamed, seemingly oblivious to the incredulous stare her guardian was directing her way. "When would you like me to do so? Oh, I hope you would consider a visit to Arus so we could talk about your writing in person!"
Merla's smile was calculating. "You know, I have been longing for some womanly gossip," she said, "and for the chance to give you a make over."
Allura's smile widened. "Now that sounds fun! Lipstick and nail polish- we could experiment with colors for you other than Gothic black."
"No pink!" Merla declared. "I forbid it!"
"Says the woman with pink hair." Allura shot back.
"Feh. Pink hair is chic. Pink dresses are yesterday's news."
"There are many shades of pink, you know. But I do realize my wardrobe is a bit monochrome. I've been trying to branch out a little..."
The Queen clapped her hands in a way that was close to being girlish. "Splendid! A sleepover/make over it is!"
All but forgotten by the two women, Keith exchanged bemused looks with Coran and his teammates. How had a serious matter of kidnapping turned into chatting about a sleepover?
"It will be fantastic!" Allura bubbled. "I'll have Nanny whip up some treats! We'll do a spa, Arusian craftspeople make some of the best scented lotions around. I'd love to get your secrets for skin care! Your complexion is flawless!"
"You are kind. And absolutely a spa! I'll bring my favorite masseuse!" Merla affirmed with enthusiasm. "Perhaps we could also do a bit of sightseeing with a handsome escort?" She eyed Keith. "What do you think, Captain? With all your travels, you must be a most stimulating companion...ever been with two women at once?"
As gasps echoed in the room and Keith's face turned crimson, Merla threw her head back and laughed heartily, provoking a squawk from her startled vulture. "I meant at a social event, of course!"
Avoiding Allura's gaze, Keith nodded stiffly. "Of course. It will be an honor and a privilege for me to escort you both."
Merla quirked an eyebrow, and laughed again. "A gentlemanly answer, Coran has trained you well. But my dear boy, it's positively sinful how easy it is to tease you! You must get used to it if I am to visit. Allura, I accept your invitation, on a date to be determined. It may be some time as I must take survey of my domain, and those crop reports aren't going to read themselves."
"Of course! Royal duties must come first!" Coran hastily agreed, looking as if he'd like to add several reports to her workload.
Allura nodded, wincing in sympathy. "I understand completely."
"I- we- truly appreciate what you have done, Queen Merla." Keith said, having regained a semblance of composure. "We're glad to hear things are going well."
"My pleasure, Captain. You are a good man and Allura is fortunate to have you." Merla's golden gaze turned to the Princess of Arus. "A word of advice, Allura; the noble ones always have a blind spot when it comes to women and their own well being, so keep close. I have it on good authority that there are more than a few females in this galaxy that would throw away ethics and questionable virtues to have a go at him!"
She left the sentiment hanging, clearly delighted at the consternation of her listeners. "I believe there's an old Earth saying that all work and no play makes for dullness, yes? I'm thinking my visit should happen sooner than later. In the meantime, I'll send a space courier with a copy of my latest project for your perusal, Princess Allura." The Queen's smile was genial with a hint of slyness. "My humble wish is that you'll find it enlightening as well as highly entertaining."
"Wonderful!" Allura exclaimed, looking both excited and a little wary. "Would you tell me what genre it is?"
Merla put a long fingernail to her chin, appearing to consider her answer. "I'd say it's a mix of genres." She finally replied.
"I should warn you, I'm not really fond of horror or misery based tales."
"Of course you aren't!" Merla said. "One should be able to find pleasure when escaping into a book!"
Allura nodded emphatically. "I agree!"
"Let's see. There's adventure...and some...suspense. Oh, and very intense interactions between the lead characters. But it's in no way a Doomian style gore fest! I've diligently worked out the plot, and all of the details so they will bring as much pleasure to my reader as they did for me in conceiving them!"
"God help us if she can't write worth beans." Keith muttered to Coran.
"God help us if she can!" Coran muttered back.
He thought his aside had been quiet enough, but had to wonder if she'd heard him, because the Queen actually grinned at him, showing the full length of her dainty fangs.
Thankfully, a female voice speaking in a tongue of unknown origin intervened at that moment.
Merla turned her head to answer in the same tongue, and then turned back to address the screen. "Alas, my dinner awaits, and I must take my leave. Be vigilant. I shall inform you of intelligence if it comes my way. Until we meet again, Voltron Force!"
The vulture gave a hoarse call of farewell as Merla's visage flickered and then vanished from the screen.
"Until we meet again." Coran echoed, sounding as if he were ready for a drink.
Merla had helped the Voltron Force defeat Zarkon- or at least what they had thought had been Zarkon. Unfortunately, Prince Lotor had revealed the King to be his henchman Cossack in disguise. Both Lotor and Merla had said they wanted to change, to join the side of good and help Voltron fight for what was right. It even appeared the couple had reconciled and were planning a real wedding. Despite all the terrible things they'd done and been a part of as minions of Doom, Allura had been thankful for the unlikely alliance and felt a genuine happiness for their changes of heart.
But that happiness had been short-lived. The anguish in Merla's eyes when Lotor's conversion to goodness had been revealed as a cruel hoax...the lines of pain etched in the Queen's savagely beautiful face...it had been heartrending to see. Heartbreak like that could not be feigned, and after bearing witness to such torment, it was difficult for Allura to see Merla as the same woman who'd tried to scatter her atoms in an effort to take over as ruler of Arus.
Having this viewpoint didn't mean she was the naive goody-goody the pink haired villainess had once accused her of being. Merla may have become good, but past gossip had made it clear the Queen had a penchant for handsome young men who knew how to wield a sword. Being good didn't mean the lady was celibate! Asking for a personal chat with Captain Keith did carry potential for mischief making that involved compromising positions and broken relationships...
The group had reached the doors to Castle Control, and as they slid open, the security officer seated at the communications console jumped to his feet and saluted. "Your Majesty! Captain and sirs!"
Keith took up position next to him, with Allura, Coran, Hunk, Pidge and Lance closing ranks behind.
"Please have a seat Mr. Randall." Allura said kindly, noting the man's sweaty brow. "Are you all right? Do you need some water?"
"Thank you, Your Majesty, I'm fine. I'm very sorry for interrupting your meal."
"Don't worry about that! You did the right thing. And Queen Merla can be a handful."
"Is she still there?" Asked Keith.
Randall checked his monitor. "She did threaten to cut the connection if she had to wait for too long, but it appears I've still got her on standby, sir. She's there, but can't hear or see us until I open the channel."
"Has she given any indication as to the nature of her call?"
"Nothing specific sir, save that it was a matter of great interest and some urgency."
Keith raised his eyebrows as he looked at Coran. "Would you like to address her? You're the expert when it comes to diplomatic matters."
"She asked for you." The older man replied slowly. "The best diplomacy is for me to defer."
Keith glanced at Allura, and when she gave a nod, he turned back to the screen. "All right, Randall. Patch us in."
In a moment, the image of Queen Merla flickered to life upon the large screen in front of them. Apparently unaware of the opened connection, she was partially turned away from the viewer, showing her exotic profile to advantage as she spoke with someone off camera.
While Randall deftly adjusted the audio settings on the console, Keith studied the woman who had once been known as the Queen of Mean. An intricately wrought golden tiara adorned her head and her battle corset and armor plated skirt had been replaced by a flowing Grecian style gown that showcased her toned arms and a tasteful amount of cleavage. Her sharp-eyed and loyal vulture was perched upon her shoulder, a satin cloth clutched beneath one clawed foot as the other provided anchor to the long plait of hair that dangled over Merla's shoulder.
The residential background of tapestries and fine furnishings, and the chaise lounge the Queen was seated upon was another surprise.
She was calling from her personal quarters instead of the cabin of a space ship?
He hoped the setting, lack of armor and her comfortable seating were indications this was a call that was friendly.
"We've got audio." Randall announced. "Go ahead, Captain."
There was a humming sound, and then the Queen's voice filled the room as she addressed an unseen person."That will be all Venetia-oh wait! I will also require the soothing oils. Bikini waxes are hell, but hopefully these new ointments prevent those ghastly ingrown hairs-"
Keith coughed, attracting the the Queen's attention. She turned quickly, and her catlike eyes widened.
"Captain Keith! How very lovely it is to see you! My goodness, I do believe you've been working out. You've filled out nicely since we last talked..."
Her voice was a sultry purr, and she made no effort to hide that she was taking pleasure in the sight of the pilot's well formed physique.
Feeling the heat of Allura's gaze upon him, Keith tried to hide his blush with a formal bow. "Your Highness. We're pleased to hear from you as well."
"We? I thought I asked for a private-" Merla broke off as Keith stepped back to allow her a view of his companions. "Princess Allura, hello! Oh look, you've brought your entire team and the old man too! How delightful!"
The onlookers admired Coran's poise and apparent imperviousness to needling, as the Royal Diplomat bowed. "Warm greetings, Your Majesty. Please pardon our intrusion, but we wanted to be certain you weren't in distress."
"Why would you think that I was?" The Queen sat forward, deliberately displaying more of her lush cleavage. Her unblinking gaze focused on Coran, daring him to look.
"Wow." Hunk whispered to Lance. "She's what you'd call a live wire."
Lance gave a soft snort. "One that'll burn you, that's for sure."
Coran kept his gaze at eye level. "It has been quite awhile since we've had word of your health or conditions on your planet."
The Queen sighed, sat back, and the thigh-high slit in her dress parted as she crossed her long, shapely legs. "Conditions are much better thanks to reforms and aid to the poor. And as for me...do I look distressed?"
"Not at all."
"Sickly? Haggard? Careworn?"
"Not at all. You are radiant."
Merla looked surprised, then genuinely pleased. "I don't recall ever hearing that word used in relation to myself. I'd forgotten what a silver tongued diplomat you are, Coran."
"Diplomacy has no bearing in this assessment, only truth. And I apologize if I've offended you by suggesting you looked otherwise."
Merla's laugh was throaty and sensual. "You sly old dog, are you flirting with me? Best be careful, I just may decide I'm into older men!"
Coran's mouth opened, but he appeared to be at a loss.
"We were getting concerned," Allura said, coming to her guardian's rescue, "because we hadn't heard from you since your divorce from Lotor."
"Yes, yes, I suppose I have been rather anti-social." Merla shrugged one slender, blue-skinned shoulder. "I wasn't in a good way when last we parted. I thought it best if you didn't hear from me until I got myself together. The end of a relationship must be be mourned."
Allura nodded. "Wounds of the heart cut the deepest, and they need time to heal."
Merla blinked- for the first time since the conversation began, Allura thought- and stroked the head of her feathered pet, who preened under her attentions. "Yes. Well. After that fiasco wrought by my despicable ex, I also thought it best I took time to reflect on my poor decisions."
"I'm not prone to extended introspection, so it's been a difficult time. It would have been easy to take out my foul mood on others, but why punish innocents for what he did to me? The best response- or revenge, if you will- is to stay good and reject his evil."
Allura nodded. "If it would help to have someone to talk to, I would be honored to count you as my friend."
"The woman that I once tried to banish to another dimension wants to help me get over a bad breakup? By Old Hagar's warts, child, you are too good to be true!" The Queen's chuckle held incredulity, and she paused, seeming to consider her words before continuing in a warm tone, "and you are sincere, and genuinely kind. I thank you. But I fear the reason I'm calling dictates that I'm going to be the one who's helping you."
Allura's smile waned at the grimness in Merla's face. "You are?"
"That sounds like a warning." Keith interjected.
"Indeed, it is. It was a problem I'd hoped to take care of it myself, but..." Merla gave another elegant shrug, "circumstance being what they are, I'm not able to neutralize the threat to your Princess."
"Was there some reason you didn't want my team to know about this?" Keith asked, frowning.
"I know how highly you think of Allura and how protective you are, so I thought I'd speak with you first." Merla smiled. "And quite honestly, I fancied the chance to experience an intimate chat with my favorite Space Captain without having to play the role of Evil Queen."
Keith ignored the subtle innuendo. "So Allura is in imminent danger?"
"Imminent, yes. Immediate...well, I cannot say for certain. My people acquired some intelligence, you see." She took a deep breath, seeming to enjoy having an audience hanging on her every word.
"This intelligence has been verified. It indicated Narfello of Anthraxia has taken a contract..."
"Contract?" Keith prodded, growing impatient as the Queen paused once more. "What kind of contract?"
"...for the kidnapping of one Arusian Princess!"
The Queen sat back and listened to the exclamations of dismay from her listeners.
"Who or what is Narfello?" Keith asked sharply.
"A loathsome purveyor of goods who has dedicated himself to funding the art of war. The province he governs has been a source of fuel and arms for every evil empire in this and nearby galaxies." Merla's words dripped with contempt. "Calling him unscrupulous is understating his business policies. Honor plays no part in his dealings, and he digs deeper into the muck by trafficking in humans."
Keith's jaw clenched. "And no government thinks to stop him?"
"They are paid handsomely to turn a blind eye. It's no secret that Anthraxia harbors the scum of the galaxy cloaked within the guises of tourism and commerce." Merla's voice softened to a note of concern. "And now, your Princess is its most highly sought prize. I'm told her virginity alone will bring a price beyond compare."
Allura paled. "Oh!"
"We'll take him down!" Pidge snapped. "The guy can't be too bright if he thinks he can take on the Voltron Force!"
Merla chuckled derisively. "Oh, he's reasonably bright! And usually a coward- he has minions aplenty to do his dirty work. My people tell me he's desperate to recoup recent losses; the Arusian truce with Doom has put a serious crimp in his profits- no war, big drop in demand for arms."
The Queen's lips compressed, and her tone grew hard. "Along with a formidable cache of mercenaries, Narfello has a well honed sense of self preservation. When trouble arises, he hides better than a lone spider in a mountain full of crevices! Desperate, cowardly men are the most dangerous, and I'm sure he feels the price he'll charge makes it worth the risk. It would be foolish to underestimate him!"
"Price is irrelevant!" Lance exclaimed. His steely gaze zeroed in on the Queen's heavily be-ringed hand, which had stopped stroking the vulture and now clutched her braid. "You think he's going to try and sell her to Lotor, don't you?"
Merla looked away while the vulture ruffled its feathers and tucked its head under a wing. "That is speculation, and I have no proof! I only know that Narfello has arrangements for a contract kidnapping. And, as I said, has ample resources at his command, including magical ones that were exposed by my failed attempts to dissuade him from his plan."
"The shadowy intruder." Coran murmured.
Keith nodded. "How much do you want to bet it's tied in with this?"
Coran made a sound of affirmation before addressing the Queen. "Your Majesty, by alerting us to this danger, you have done Planet Arus a great service. For that, and attempting to curtail it, you have our deepest gratitude."
"The Voltron Force assisted me when I had caused them nothing but pain. It is the least I can do to make amends." The Queen's full lips twisted into a wry smile. "I wish I could have brought an end to the threat. It was all I could do to obtain the intelligence, as it seems I'm no longer welcome in villainous circles."
"I'm just so pleased that you didn't change your decision to be good," Allura said quietly. "That is enough reward in itself."
"The actions and opinions of the spawn of Doom have no influence over me, nor will they in future." The Queen replied. "It's not easy changing the bad habits of many years, but I have found one positive use for my free time." A mysterious smile curved her lips.
"Something that is fun and relaxing, I hope." The Princess said, smiling back.
"It has been so far. Writing a book, that is. A work of fiction, actually." Merla's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "I understand you're an avid reader, Allura. If you'd be willing and have the time to give me feedback, it would be helpful to get a perspective that's fresh and honest."
"How in the world would she know that?" Pidge whispered to Hunk.
"Not sure, little buddy." Hunk replied, looking uneasy. "Lucky guess?"
"Of course I have the time!" Allura beamed, seemingly oblivious to the incredulous stare her guardian was directing her way. "When would you like me to do so? Oh, I hope you would consider a visit to Arus so we could talk about your writing in person!"
Merla's smile was calculating. "You know, I have been longing for some womanly gossip," she said, "and for the chance to give you a make over."
Allura's smile widened. "Now that sounds fun! Lipstick and nail polish- we could experiment with colors for you other than Gothic black."
"No pink!" Merla declared. "I forbid it!"
"Says the woman with pink hair." Allura shot back.
"Feh. Pink hair is chic. Pink dresses are yesterday's news."
"There are many shades of pink, you know. But I do realize my wardrobe is a bit monochrome. I've been trying to branch out a little..."
The Queen clapped her hands in a way that was close to being girlish. "Splendid! A sleepover/make over it is!"
All but forgotten by the two women, Keith exchanged bemused looks with Coran and his teammates. How had a serious matter of kidnapping turned into chatting about a sleepover?
"It will be fantastic!" Allura bubbled. "I'll have Nanny whip up some treats! We'll do a spa, Arusian craftspeople make some of the best scented lotions around. I'd love to get your secrets for skin care! Your complexion is flawless!"
"You are kind. And absolutely a spa! I'll bring my favorite masseuse!" Merla affirmed with enthusiasm. "Perhaps we could also do a bit of sightseeing with a handsome escort?" She eyed Keith. "What do you think, Captain? With all your travels, you must be a most stimulating companion...ever been with two women at once?"
As gasps echoed in the room and Keith's face turned crimson, Merla threw her head back and laughed heartily, provoking a squawk from her startled vulture. "I meant at a social event, of course!"
Avoiding Allura's gaze, Keith nodded stiffly. "Of course. It will be an honor and a privilege for me to escort you both."
Merla quirked an eyebrow, and laughed again. "A gentlemanly answer, Coran has trained you well. But my dear boy, it's positively sinful how easy it is to tease you! You must get used to it if I am to visit. Allura, I accept your invitation, on a date to be determined. It may be some time as I must take survey of my domain, and those crop reports aren't going to read themselves."
"Of course! Royal duties must come first!" Coran hastily agreed, looking as if he'd like to add several reports to her workload.
Allura nodded, wincing in sympathy. "I understand completely."
"I- we- truly appreciate what you have done, Queen Merla." Keith said, having regained a semblance of composure. "We're glad to hear things are going well."
"My pleasure, Captain. You are a good man and Allura is fortunate to have you." Merla's golden gaze turned to the Princess of Arus. "A word of advice, Allura; the noble ones always have a blind spot when it comes to women and their own well being, so keep close. I have it on good authority that there are more than a few females in this galaxy that would throw away ethics and questionable virtues to have a go at him!"
She left the sentiment hanging, clearly delighted at the consternation of her listeners. "I believe there's an old Earth saying that all work and no play makes for dullness, yes? I'm thinking my visit should happen sooner than later. In the meantime, I'll send a space courier with a copy of my latest project for your perusal, Princess Allura." The Queen's smile was genial with a hint of slyness. "My humble wish is that you'll find it enlightening as well as highly entertaining."
"Wonderful!" Allura exclaimed, looking both excited and a little wary. "Would you tell me what genre it is?"
Merla put a long fingernail to her chin, appearing to consider her answer. "I'd say it's a mix of genres." She finally replied.
"I should warn you, I'm not really fond of horror or misery based tales."
"Of course you aren't!" Merla said. "One should be able to find pleasure when escaping into a book!"
Allura nodded emphatically. "I agree!"
"Let's see. There's adventure...and some...suspense. Oh, and very intense interactions between the lead characters. But it's in no way a Doomian style gore fest! I've diligently worked out the plot, and all of the details so they will bring as much pleasure to my reader as they did for me in conceiving them!"
"God help us if she can't write worth beans." Keith muttered to Coran.
"God help us if she can!" Coran muttered back.
He thought his aside had been quiet enough, but had to wonder if she'd heard him, because the Queen actually grinned at him, showing the full length of her dainty fangs.
Thankfully, a female voice speaking in a tongue of unknown origin intervened at that moment.
Merla turned her head to answer in the same tongue, and then turned back to address the screen. "Alas, my dinner awaits, and I must take my leave. Be vigilant. I shall inform you of intelligence if it comes my way. Until we meet again, Voltron Force!"
The vulture gave a hoarse call of farewell as Merla's visage flickered and then vanished from the screen.
"Until we meet again." Coran echoed, sounding as if he were ready for a drink.
Silence reigned in castle control as everyone took some time to reflect on the conversation. Lingering curiosity regarding the writings of Queen Merla... misgivings over the warning she'd left...there was a lot to ponder.
"Well. That happened." Hunk finally said.
Pidge sighed. "Is it worse if it's Lotor? At least we know Lotor doesn't want her harmed!"
Lance just grunted.
"I can't believe Lotor would hire an outsider to kidnap me. He's too paranoid and prideful." Allura reflected. "What do you think, Keith?"
"I wouldn't discount it. His circumstances have changed, and he'd stoop to paying a thug if it was the only way of getting what he wants." His smile was tight lipped. "But like always...he'll be adding to his list of epic fails."
Hunk cracked his knuckles. "We won't let him get ya, Princess!"
"What Lotor needs to get is a life!" Pidge spat. There was some guilt in the admission that he could understand some of Lotor's obsession with Allura; she was the shining prize on the top shelf of the arcade that no one earned enough tickets to buy.
But she was so much more than a stunningly beautiful royal prize- she was courageous and true, plucky and kind, and everything good- something the evil Prince wanted badly, but could only aspire to having.
"Pidge? Is something wrong?"
The Green Lion pilot pushed up his glasses. How like Allura to worry about him when she was the one in danger. He grinned widely, and was happy to get a smile in return, though tightly clasped hands spoke of her disquiet. "Don't worry, Princess! We got this!"
"I believe that. With all my heart." She nodded at him, and then turned to the one teammate who hadn't given their opinion, adding, "you've unusually quiet Lance! Did she scare you that much?"
"Well. That happened." Hunk finally said.
Pidge sighed. "Is it worse if it's Lotor? At least we know Lotor doesn't want her harmed!"
Lance just grunted.
"I can't believe Lotor would hire an outsider to kidnap me. He's too paranoid and prideful." Allura reflected. "What do you think, Keith?"
"I wouldn't discount it. His circumstances have changed, and he'd stoop to paying a thug if it was the only way of getting what he wants." His smile was tight lipped. "But like always...he'll be adding to his list of epic fails."
Hunk cracked his knuckles. "We won't let him get ya, Princess!"
"What Lotor needs to get is a life!" Pidge spat. There was some guilt in the admission that he could understand some of Lotor's obsession with Allura; she was the shining prize on the top shelf of the arcade that no one earned enough tickets to buy.
But she was so much more than a stunningly beautiful royal prize- she was courageous and true, plucky and kind, and everything good- something the evil Prince wanted badly, but could only aspire to having.
"Pidge? Is something wrong?"
The Green Lion pilot pushed up his glasses. How like Allura to worry about him when she was the one in danger. He grinned widely, and was happy to get a smile in return, though tightly clasped hands spoke of her disquiet. "Don't worry, Princess! We got this!"
"I believe that. With all my heart." She nodded at him, and then turned to the one teammate who hadn't given their opinion, adding, "you've unusually quiet Lance! Did she scare you that much?"
Though her smile was teasing, her voice was unsteady.
Deflection so she can keep a stiff upper lip. Lance thought. Being the constant target of obsession has to be wearing on her nerves.
Merla wasn't to be found on his short list of trusted intelligence sources, but observation and instinct told him that the Queen was telling the truth. Whatever her motive for sharing was of secondary importance. He wouldn't bet the farm, but it wouldn't be a complete surprise if the woman actually was trying to do something good.
What had been a revelation was the insight gained through his new-found connection with Allura; her inner feelings during the communication were perceptible without her having to say a thing.
There had been waves of unease beforehand. The flow of her aura smoothed and gentled when Merla offered help, and a reciprocal declaration of friendship (though that in itself was an idea that could prove to a future angst fest). But then, a forceful change. Just as soon as Lotor was mentioned, the soothing flow became a churning current of dread and trepidation. The clearest image he could assign to experiencing it was having gone from sailing a boat on a smooth- as-glass, clear blue sea to clinging to a raft buffeted by icy cold, tempest tossed waves.
It was worthless not being able to use the link to comfort Allura the way she had done with him. He didn't know how, and the frustration and anger that caused- fueled by the embers of deepest feelings he refused to examine- forced him into stasis. Ranting about Lotor would make it worse for her; she didn't need the burden of feeling the murderous fury that filled him in thinking about the Doom prince laying one gloved finger on her anatomy.
At least he wasn't alone. Keith was really good at hiding his emotions, but it didn't take a psychic link to detect the currents of hatred for Lotor. Dude could give lessons in stoicism, but Keith couldn't fool his best buddy. They were of like mind and feelings.
To know that, and that he didn't have the right to reassure Allura, should make him cautious as hell about what he said and did around her. Yeah. Well. Screw that! He was her friend, and friends didn't run away when the going got tough or a bit awkward.
He knew all eyes were following him as he went to stand in front of the Princess. Placing his hands upon her fine shoulders, he looked into her eyes, communicating his steadfast resolve.
"Lotor shall not have you. I swear it on my life."
As the words spilled forth, her eyes widened. She tried to speak, then swallowed hard and gave him a tearful smile that went straight to his heart.
He drew her to him, pressing her golden head to the curve of his arm and shoulder, oblivious to the thunderstruck expressions of the men behind him. This would be a precious memory, holding her close, the feeling of her arms wrapping around him…
...a sensation that ended abruptly as the amulet she wore started to spark. Allura let go of him with a gasp and reached up to pull it away from her skin.
"Did it burn you, Princess? Be careful-"
He pulled her hand away, reached for the sapphire stone and touched its smooth, cool surface.
"It's okay, Lance, really! It's just..." Her voice trailed off as her hand made contact with his.
A long, low growl sounded in his mind, calling to something wild stirring in his soul.
Something that had been awakened.
Deflection so she can keep a stiff upper lip. Lance thought. Being the constant target of obsession has to be wearing on her nerves.
Merla wasn't to be found on his short list of trusted intelligence sources, but observation and instinct told him that the Queen was telling the truth. Whatever her motive for sharing was of secondary importance. He wouldn't bet the farm, but it wouldn't be a complete surprise if the woman actually was trying to do something good.
What had been a revelation was the insight gained through his new-found connection with Allura; her inner feelings during the communication were perceptible without her having to say a thing.
There had been waves of unease beforehand. The flow of her aura smoothed and gentled when Merla offered help, and a reciprocal declaration of friendship (though that in itself was an idea that could prove to a future angst fest). But then, a forceful change. Just as soon as Lotor was mentioned, the soothing flow became a churning current of dread and trepidation. The clearest image he could assign to experiencing it was having gone from sailing a boat on a smooth- as-glass, clear blue sea to clinging to a raft buffeted by icy cold, tempest tossed waves.
It was worthless not being able to use the link to comfort Allura the way she had done with him. He didn't know how, and the frustration and anger that caused- fueled by the embers of deepest feelings he refused to examine- forced him into stasis. Ranting about Lotor would make it worse for her; she didn't need the burden of feeling the murderous fury that filled him in thinking about the Doom prince laying one gloved finger on her anatomy.
At least he wasn't alone. Keith was really good at hiding his emotions, but it didn't take a psychic link to detect the currents of hatred for Lotor. Dude could give lessons in stoicism, but Keith couldn't fool his best buddy. They were of like mind and feelings.
To know that, and that he didn't have the right to reassure Allura, should make him cautious as hell about what he said and did around her. Yeah. Well. Screw that! He was her friend, and friends didn't run away when the going got tough or a bit awkward.
He knew all eyes were following him as he went to stand in front of the Princess. Placing his hands upon her fine shoulders, he looked into her eyes, communicating his steadfast resolve.
"Lotor shall not have you. I swear it on my life."
As the words spilled forth, her eyes widened. She tried to speak, then swallowed hard and gave him a tearful smile that went straight to his heart.
He drew her to him, pressing her golden head to the curve of his arm and shoulder, oblivious to the thunderstruck expressions of the men behind him. This would be a precious memory, holding her close, the feeling of her arms wrapping around him…
...a sensation that ended abruptly as the amulet she wore started to spark. Allura let go of him with a gasp and reached up to pull it away from her skin.
"Did it burn you, Princess? Be careful-"
He pulled her hand away, reached for the sapphire stone and touched its smooth, cool surface.
"It's okay, Lance, really! It's just..." Her voice trailed off as her hand made contact with his.
A long, low growl sounded in his mind, calling to something wild stirring in his soul.
Something that had been awakened.
Allura cried out as she watched her best friend's eyes glazing over. "Lance! What is it? What's happening?"
"I... don't...know."
He gasped. A red cloud was enveloping his thoughts, and a leonine figure was standing in its mist.
He was unaware that he'd dropped to his knees. He was vaguely aware of the people around him calling out his name, but the pull from the stone was too strong.
The knowledge...the Red Lion... he needed to go where it was leading him.
Eyes closed, he let go of reality.
"I... don't...know."
He gasped. A red cloud was enveloping his thoughts, and a leonine figure was standing in its mist.
He was unaware that he'd dropped to his knees. He was vaguely aware of the people around him calling out his name, but the pull from the stone was too strong.
The knowledge...the Red Lion... he needed to go where it was leading him.
Eyes closed, he let go of reality.
Advisory
Warning - while the contents of this site are of an artistic nature, some of the included works (both fanart and fanfiction) have a mature theme. Those fanworks that are of a mature nature will be clearly labeled as such, and should be restricted to viewing by individuals over the age of 18. Please understand that if you view/read these mature works it is at your own risk.
Please Note
"The Lion's Keep: The Next Chapter" is the most recent version of the "The Lion's Keep",
and was originally established November 08, 1999
Disclaimers
Voltron: Defender Of The Universe, Vehicle Voltron,
Voltron The Third Dimension, Voltron Force
Voltron: Legendary Defender
and all associated characters are owned and copyrighted © by
WEP, LLC
And licensed by
DreamWorks Animation
Stories, new and original characters, etc., copyright © their respective authors/creators. Please be kind, considerate and honest and don't use original characters or reuse/repost an artist's or writer's work without their express consent. Anything you see or read here has been posted with permission from the respective author or artist.
These pages are meant for entertainment purposes only - no infringement is intended.
I can't help it... I ❤ love ❤ Voltron!