Chapter 1: Prologue- In a History Book
Summary:
A quick look into the past, the story that starts our tale.
Chapter Text
If you open any Daibazzal history book you will find the history of the royal line of Daibazzal. Princess Krolia was born to Queen Ivella and King Aslan. During the queen's and king's reign the land suffered a 2-year long drought. With very little land for the citizens to grow food many of their subjects starved. The king and queen had only one solution form an alliance with the nearby kingdom of Naxzela, they were a recent kingdom with little citizens but much bountiful land.
They engaged their 16 year old daughter, at the time, to the young prince of Naxzela. Prince Zarkon and Krolia were married 2 years later, saving the people from starvation. Naxzela allowed Daibazzal to use their land for growing crops. As Naxzela was a small kingdom they joined Daibazzal and stayed with the Country name of Daibazzal. Krolia gave Zarkon an heir a year later named Axca. She took after her mother.
All seemed peaceful until a couple months after Axca was born Queen Krolia went on a diplomatic mission to strengthen ties with Altea. Krolia had just made it to the Altean border when she and her entourage were attacked by Altean thieves.
Krolia was murdered that day. The kingdom of Daibazzal mourned her lost and Zarkon vowed to make this right. He set his eyes on Altea promising blood shed and to start a war for what occurred to the Queen.
In a desperate attempt to show good faith and to fix their relationship. Queen Melenor asked her trusted friend Honerva for help.
Honerva went to go meet Zarkon, she lived with him for 2 years before she married him and fell pregnant. She gave birth to a son Lotor. Princess Axca was the last remaining of the pure bloodline, because of this the people accepted Lotor as the new crown prince and the new bloodline, if anything were to happen to the Princess.
Zarkon and Honerva saw this as a way to conquer Altea and expand the kingdom of Daibazzal. Each kingdom produced it's own Essential resource and no other kingdom was able to create a duplicate of that resource.
The three powerful Kingdoms of Altea, Earthus, and Daibazzal all bordered eachother. Altea lead the exports in Junipers. A flower with healing properties. Earthus broght most of its wealth from its exports of technology advancements, and it's wisedom. Daibazzal was the main resource for dangerous yet powerful minerals, one such mineral only Galrans, citizens from Daibazzal, could activate.
By conquering Altea, Daibazzal would have been stronger. Their reign secured for generations. Some say it was almost supernatural or magical how quickly greed filled their hearts.
Zarkon ordered and lead the attack on Altea ~12 years later, after meticulous planning. He killed Queen Melenor and King Alfor. Civilians and nobles on both sides began to suffer. The neutral kingdom of Earthus opened it's borders to refugees and some royals as well.
Zarkon conquered Altea and quickly brought extinction to the Alteans. Aswell as setting fires to the majority of Altea's Juniper fields. However, some survived. They went into hiding and it wasn't until Allura, crowned princess of Altea came of age and together with her cousin Lawrence Lancelot, Lance, were they able to lead a rebellion and take back Altea.
Zarkon and Honerva were not killed but they were injured and escaped before they could be captured.
Lance and Allura spent the next 3 years rebuilding Altea. With their trusty advisor Coran and their diplomatic ambassador Romelle. Even the Royals of Earthus gave aid as they were friends with Lance.
Now here we are Daibazzal is under the rule of Princess Axca, Prince Lotor her trusted right hand. The country is in a state of amends after everything the previous rulers had done. The princess also sits on a temporary throne she is to be advised and trained before she can become queen. The people of Daibazzal have chosen the leader of a rebellion group, when Zarkon was king, Kolivan, as her mentor.
Kolivan was a dear friend to Krolia, so he was honored to take up the role.
Kolivan and his generals during the rebellion make up the Princess's royal consuel, together they rule Daibazzal and are working on strengthening the country and it's alliances.
However history is told by the victors, and heavy are their spoils. What you are about to read will not be found in any history book. This is the truth of what acutally happened years ago and what starts our tale.
Queen Krolia survived...
Zarkon ordered her execution...
The war from Daibazzal is far from over...
Krolia had her suspicions about Zarkon but gave him an heir as it was her duty. She was going to Altea to strengthen their relationship but also to sell out Zarkon and ask for help with his defeat. She had left Axca in the care of her trusted advisor and planned to come back for her after making Altea aware of Zarkon. So, she left with a couple of attendants to Altea as soon as she could. Zarkon found out about her plan and sent Sendak, his most trusted general to kill her for treason. He then made up a lie that painted Altea in a bad light and no one questioned him because Sendak hired Altean hit man to aid in the attack.
However, Krolia was a trained warrior and while she couldn't save everyone she did save herself. She escaped with her scars and bruises and pretended to have fallen of a cliff so Sendak would think her dead.
She was saved by an Earthus knight. A kind man with dark hair and pale skin. He brought her to his cottage on castle grounds. The knight, Austin, already had a son his name was Takashi nicknamed Shiro. Shiro's mother was a noblewomen who died during childbirth making Shiro the heir to house Shirogane.
Shiro got along well with Krolia. Shiro took it as having a mother again. Krolia's injuries required time to heal at first she was hesitant to accept Austin's help but slowly she opened up to him. Explaining who she was and how she ended up there. How her main concern was saving Axca how she was worried about what Zarkon would do now.
However, any news about Daibazzal was scarce. Earthus was a neutral country and with little relationship to Daibazzal they weren't sure what was going on. Krolia was fooled by this false sense of security and let herself fall for Austin's. She saw how kind and caring he was she felt genuine love for him. It wasn't long before Krolia was expecting Keith. When she held him in her arms she vowed he would know peace...
13 years later...
Zarkon lead his attack on Altea.
Earthus couldn't send soldiers by force but those willing went to bring aid. Earthus opened it's gates to refugees. Austin went and never returned. An honored and decorated warrior met his end on the battle field. After receiving the news Krolia left a 19 year old Shiro, and a 13 year old Keith to the palace's care.
No one knows where she went or if she even survived...
Chapter 2: Chapter 1- I Hate Everything About You
Summary:
Every time we lie awake, after every hit we take.
All the feelings that I get, but I still don't miss you yet. Only when I stop to think about it.
I hate everything about you, why do I love you!
~~~~~~~~~~~
Where are Keith and Lance now?
What broke them up?
How did they end up like this and how does the universe bring our boys together?
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Altea was known for it's open spaces, lush gardens and water channels. Most of its exports left by boat. The Royal family had much boats. Regal ones and before the Great War they would have gone on water to visit its allied countries. However this visit was different for one it was after the war. And secondly, the Galran princess had asked them to be discreet. As to not alarm any Alteans civilians and to move undetected they had decided to take a small cottage on wheels. It was custom travel for most; a covered cart pulled by animals.
This one was a bit bigger than most, but it would do the trick. They also had left by early sunset. This way most of their travel would be in the cover of darkness. As the scenery slowly changed from rolling hills to tall pines and great oaks Lance could tell they were going further and further from Altea and getting closer to Daibazzal.
Their blue eyes looked up at the sky where they sat on top of the cottage's roof. Shifting the weight in their hands they slowly rocked the sleeping babe. It was well past her bed time, but Lance had accustomed her to the star's comfort.
"Mama...sleepy." Valerie mumbled.
"Oh, so now you're tired. My little warrior. It's ok you can close your eyes."
"Mhmm...love ya.."
"Me too, Val."
Looking a her peaceful face as she slept in their arms Lance couldn't help but let go of a breath it seemed they were holding since the beginning of their travels.
Altea would never be the same, heck they would never be the same. Lance had lost their parents to the war. Allura, Lance's cousin had lost hers too, and her throne. Altea was in bad shape when they defeated Zarkon. Lance had remembered exchanging blows with Zarkon. They could still feel the bruises and cuts. How tried their body was but adrenaline kept them going. Then like the blink of an eye Zarkon disappeared. The war was over but not forgotten. In the months that followed Allura crowned them as Prince. If anything should happen to her Lance would be second in line. Not long after Lance found out they were pregnant and gave birth to little Valerie. The kingdom was extremely ecstatic. The birth of Valerie filled them with hope for the future. In the years that followed Altea licked their wounds and with help from Earthus they were able to find a new normal.
Now a week later after a letter arrived with the Royal Daibazzal seal they were going to change all that? Why were they even entertaining this meeting! Zarkon, Honerva and Daibazzal caused all this pain and suffering!
Because of them Lance and Allura grew up without parents!
Because of them Alteans struggle to survive!
Because of them Valerie would grow up without her father! And that was something Lance could never forgive...
Ok so maybe it wasn't directly Daibazzal's fault but still if it wasn't for the war maybe Keith would still be by their side.
"I had a feeling I'd find you here... staring out at the stars." Allura had found them. She looked tired like she too had questions lingering in her mind.
"We just needed some peace and quiet... and the stars are just pretty to look at. So are the phasing moons..." Lance didn't want to talk about acutal feelings they were to mentally draining, but they also didn't want to be alone.
Looking down at the sleeping bundle in their arms, which had gotten so big, they sighed. Here they were again changing their life's once more rolling into the unexpected again. Possibly bringing her to the center of danger.
Lance loved their little girl, she was completely her father if it wasn't for her tan skin.
Lance decided to toss her a bone, let her know what they were really feeling. "I'm just so worried Allura, the war ending, The Daibazzal government wanting to speak with us, Altea crumbling our allies desserting us... how am I so supposed to raise her, how I'm I supposed to keep her safe... I...I can't...it seems no matter what I choose what I decide she'll be in danger"
"Hey... you've kept her alive and healthy for three years. The second you found out about her you've put her first. I know it's hard as rulers of Altea we have a duty to our people, it isn't easy I also don't know why we are giving Daibazzal a chance. My heart is torn between duty and what I want but I'll tell you this as crowned heir it is my responsibility to put my subjects first and that includes you and little Val. So, I promise nothing will hurt you, no harm will come to her.
Giving her a soft smile they said, "I could never let the weight of the crown fall on you alone cousin... Whatever the Galra want we'll face it together. And if anything happens to Val, hells breaking lose." They broke out in a shit eating grin.
"You know it."
Light laughter filled the quiet night. Until Val began to stir in Lance's arms and they began to shush her back to sleep. It was a few minutes before Allura spoke again.
"I know you have a kind heart. Listen I don't know what's in store for us but I do know we will face it together no matter what. We will protect Altea and she will have a future."
Holding hands and interlocking fingers they silently promised themselves a better future. Allura wasn't sure what Princess Axca would want and how they would establish peace between Altea and Daibazzal, but Lance and his daughter were important to her, they were the only blood family she had left.
Gently smiling at Lance, " get some sleep, if Coran isn't mistaken he says we will reach Daibazzal by midday tomorrow."
"I'll try... goodnight..."
Alone once again this brought Lance to think about the past, Valerie and her needs. He messed up once with someone he loved he wasn't about to do it again...
Even at the cost of peace between nations...
~~~~~~~
Laying side by side staring at the stars
A gentle breeze making the grass and trees sway. Looking up at the sky their world seemed so small their problems so miniscule. They felt like they could just breath in eachother's company.
"Pinky promise?"
Laughing slightly as Lance moved to look at Keith, "Pinky promise? Are we toddlers now or what?"
"Lance I'm being serious" Keith said with a pout.
"Me too!"
Giving him an incredulous look, Lance knew they were about to have a deep conversation.
"Ok...ok sorry, Pinky promise what?"
"That this is our life now, me and you side by side here on Earthus."
"Keith... I" This was a taboo topic in their years of friendship and months of dating. Lance couldn't promise Keith forever, they had to put their duty to Altea first. "You know I love you, but you also know I love my home, I miss my home...I."
"You don't owe them anything. You were 13, your not a disposable soldier what about me what about us. What about our future."
"Keith I promise with all my power I do everything I can so we can stay together but we're from two different worlds."
"We're together now."
"Yeah..."
"Lance, I'm not asking you to chose I'm asking you to put me first, to put us first. But you can't do both.You don't owe Altea anything, you were just a kid..."
"Keith, I want the war to end. I want to go back I want to be with you. I just... I'm not sure what to do."
"I want that too... I want to look for my mom. I want the war to end. I want to be with you. So, why can't... why can't we promise to be together forever."
Lance was hesitant but Keith made it sound so easy. And he's smile was gentle and his eyes were so sure. He looked so confident and Lance found himself waining resolve, and caved.
Holding out his pinky, "forever"
With the brightest and biggest smile Lance had ever seen, Keith mimicked his gesture, "together!"
Keith grabbed Lance by the waist and pushed him down. Smiling and laughing they held each other close. The sudden motion caused them to lose balance and they rolled down the small hill they were sitting on.
When the world stopped spinning, Lance looked down at Keith's eyes and goofy smile. "You big doofus now our clothes are dirty, this is my favorite shirt you know"
"Mhmm...it brings out your eyes"
Sputtering Lance couldn't believe the sly dog, "Jeez were is the thirteen year old awkward teenager who couldn't even say hi to me, now you got come backs."
Leaning up to kiss Lance's cheek he then booped their nose, then said, "I think it's cause I spend so much time with you."
"Hey! You can't blame a prince!"
"Sure...now will you shut up and kiss me."
Rolling his eyes, Lance leaned down to kiss Keith, the latter meeting him half way. Quickly the kiss turned passionate. Like they were trying to prove to each other how close they were how important they were to each other. Almost feral it was teeth clashing and hair pulling, but then it was gentle caresses and and breathless gasps.
They truly wanted to prove to each other they truly meant together forever. "Lance..."
"Keith..." Slowly they undressed each other fingers tracing lines on lean muscles, hip bones, strong shoulders. Lost in their own little world they let their feelings and the moment lead them.
...
Post-sex snuggles were the best. Keith was a cuddler and Lance was lucky if he'd let him breath with how tightly he'd hold him."I love you, Keith"
Keith nuzzled into Lance's neck, mouthing at Lance's sensitive scent glands. "Keith..."
"What?..." "Stop you know Alteans are sensitive on their necks."
"Yea...and you even more", lifting his hand to tickle Lance they began to laugh.
"I'm serious Keith you're lucky I trust you, not every Omegan Altean would let someone this close to their scent gland."
"Don't be so cocky, you love it."
"No, I love you"
Staring up at the stars, they knew their world was bigger than Earthus. But right now, right here, in this moment Lance's world was Keith and Keith’s was Lance.
If only it was that easy. If only they could stay in this moment. Holding each other and promising each other forever. But, promises are fast to make and easy to break.
~~~~~~~
Now looking back Lance can't imagine that night changing their life forever, but it did. It gave them Val, it made them a liar. If only keeping a promise was as easy as making it. But oh god how Lance missed Keith. Lance didn't think they could fall in love with someone else like they did Keith.
Keith was freedom, Keith was a choice. Keith should have been his choice. But then Allura had come to Lance and begged them that they had a plan to take down Zarkon and Honerva. That Altea needed them, that they could get their home back. And she was right Altea was their home, and winning it back felt right. But, Keith should have been their home, Keith should have been there when they returned to Earthus for the peace talks. But Shiro, Keith’s brother, had told Lance that he had left. He had said goodbye and left, decided he couldn't stay and wait for someone who couldn't put them first.
Ok, so Shiro didn't say it like that but that's how it felt. A punch to the chest so deep. And when he thought he could finally maybe think of Keith without crying Lance realized Keith has left them with a gift a reminder of him forever.
Chuckling to themselves Lance guessed Keith kept his promise, "together forever, huh"
Looking down at Valerie she had snuggled into Lance, just her father would do.
"Alright Missy, let's get you to bed. Tomorrow's gonna be a day..." Sighing, he hefted her up and made his way to their room.
ווווו×
"Lance! Lance wait!" Tripping over the castle's extravagant carpet, Keith crused the stupid thing. Who would put a tripping hazard right where he was walking, trying to reason with the love of his life!
"Lance! Stop! Would you just talk to me what do they mean you guys are leaving? You're gonna join the front lines? Face Zarkon?? Hello! What about me! What about us!" Anger would best define how Keith felt now, and red was all he saw.
Stopping, Lance wasn't even sure where he was going, there was no place they could escape to and Keith deserved an explanation or atleast an apology.
"Keith...I..." Turning he was now face to face with their lover, a face he never wanted to see suffer, was fighting so hard to hold back tears. "Keith...listen I'm sor--" Reaching out their hands they went to wipe a stray tear but as fast as Lance had lifted their hand, Keith smacked it away.
"Sorry?! Don't say sorry! You're not sorry your a liar. I bet you think it's funny. Let us all mess with the orphan who finally felt like he had a family!" He was yelling now he didn't mean to yell to sound so angry, or maybe he did but not at Lance. He loved Lance, he just couldn't help feeling so betrayed. However, he couldn't find the right words he couldn't get all these feelings out. The anger took over and he was throwing insult after insult.
Puffing up his cheeks, Lance did that when he had something to say but was holding back
"So now you got nothing to say, huh, because you made promises so easily not to long ago!"
"What?! Keith you made me promise!"
"Made you? What are you talking about?"
"I told you this is important to me, Altea is important to me, it's a part of who I am..." Lance tone grew warmer and calmer, "join us, you can have a place on our side, by my side..."
Lance stretched out their hand towards Keith. It was an invitation. They could put this behind them, Keith could be the bigger person, he could forgive, he could follow Lance. They could be together.
But...there was something he had never told Lance, and he wasn't gonna say it now. Keith had aspirations too, he had a mission himself, he wanted to find his mother, he wanted to know more about her and his past, he wanted to now more about...his Galra side.
Keith was Galra, he was the enemy, he was a monster. He shared DNA with killers, destroyers, and blood thirsty criminals.
On Earthus he could forget all that. He was ok with letting go of the pass if he wasn't the only one who put them first, but Lance didn't seem to feel the same. And you know what? Maybe it was smart for Lance to move on, to go to Altea. Whose to say if they had deathened that part of themselves, just maybe they would have resented eachother.
So, maybe it was because he felt betrayed, because he couldn't believe Lance. And how easily it was to break their promise. Maybe it was because Lance hadn't told him first, of their plan to leave, and he was bitter and broken....
Shaking his head, he glared at Lance. Full tears were streaming down his face falling on that stupid carpet. Turning to walk away, his voice was no longer loud and angry it was cold and distant, "Lance... I wish nothing but the best for you, you'll make a great prince..."
He shouldn't have a said it, he knew it was another unspoken thing in their relationship: Lance's and his different political statuses.
Fully turning away from Lance, his tears were falling now.
Fumbling through their words and trying to decide what to even say after that, Lance yelled "How? What? Excuse me?! Keith! Keith! Don't walk away mister, you can---"
Keith didn't hear the rest he heard enough. He didn't need excuses he didn't want more lies more empty promises. Running as fast as he could he sprinted down the halls, turning left and then right he didn't have a destination in mind just that he needed to get away. He need to think he needed space.
The words replayed in his mind. Allura had gathered them to explain the plan, "We're going back! We're taking back Altea, we've come up with a plan to take down Zarkon and win back our home."
Our Home? Home? Wasn't Keith their home, wasn't this there home? How could they leave how could they sound so happy to leave...
Running along the castle began to shift, halls become longer, walls started to close in. Hallways grew darker and Keith wasn't sure where he was anymore. Stopping to catch his breath he looked around...something wasn't right...
ENOUGH! YOU CAN'T ESCAPE THIS!
A loud booming voice rang out, Keith hadn't remembered it like this...
Big hands came out from the walls, first they were slow and calculating but then they grew faster. Closing around him, they held him prisoner. Lifting him up everything around him was a black abyss.
Looking down, there was Lance, they had come for him. Lance was looking for him.
He could see Lance yelling out for him, but they couldn't hear him.
Keith tried to form words but he couldn't, nothing would come out no matter how hard he tried.
It seems like Lance can hear him, because the muffled sounds make them look up and face Keith. Pain is what Keith sees. Lance tries to reach up to Keith, all of a sudden Lance is so close, he can see the pain and worry in his eyes. Lance leans in to caress Keith's cheek, a silent gesture of forgiveness. Keith leans into the touch and as soon as he does Lance is being pulled away by an invisible force.
Lance continues to reach for Keith and Keith tries his best to yell out for Lance, so close yet so far. He struggles against the hands holding him but nothing will make the hands budge. Turning around to look up at the arms that had grabbed him he saw his mother. Her face cold and devoid of emotions as she said,
YOU HAVE A NEW MISSION
THIS IS YOUR LIFE NOW
KEITH
KEITH
Keith
Keith
"Yorak!"
Gasping for air he finally woke up. Going to rub his neck, he could still felt the stinging of not being able to breathe. Looking around he wasn't in the castle anymore, he wasn't on Earthus. He was on Daibazzal in the knights quarters, were he shared bunks with other Galra. He was as far away from Lance, from his past, as he could get.
Laying back down, he used his forearm to cover his face, the rooms light wasn't bright but it still didn't help with his spinning head.
"Yorak!" Still disoriented from the nightmare he wasn't able to deflect the pillow that came right at his face.
"Come on, Yorak! We have to go there calling all the castle members for a meeting! I hear it's gonna be jaw dropping news!"
James had woken him up. Yorak--er Keith didn't like James. He was loud an annoying and meddling. But his mother had explained to him that while he was here he was Yorak and Yorak had to keep a low profile. James might be the most extravagant Galra he had met and Keith might have punched his face a long time ago....but all Yorak could muster was,
"Got it. I'll meet you there."
"Yea...sure whatever man, I'm not covering for you, just so you know."
With that James left the room, and Keith could finally think. Think about that day, when Lance and the Alteans had left. It was a little heart breaking; Allura and Romelle had become like sisters and Coran like an Uncle. Keith had thought growing up in a castle would be big and daunting with only his brother by his side, but who was dealing with a lot of responsibilities from being a noble.
However, after Earthus had open their gates, Keith met Lance, Allura, Romelle, and Coran. They were different from anyone else in the castle, they were Alteans. And they could empathize with Keith about losing his parents. Keith was able to open up, and even make more friends who were already at the castle. Pidge or Princess Katie, the princess if Earthus. Who unlike her titled suggested was a complete gremlin and Hunk a half human half Balmeran who came to to Earthus to learn about their cuisine. He was a friendly chef who fit nicely into the group.
Now, Keith is alone. James is probably the only one he talks to, which isn't saying much...
Lance had been so sure that day, he tried to reach out for Keith to reason with him but Keith was just so angry and blinded by his rage he couldn't forgive him, he wouldn't hear him out. He regrets it now...
Now that he's older he wishes he was able to see past the rage. But Keith didn't or hadn't and now he must carry on as Yorak, with his assigned mission.
But...
Every time he lies awake and let's his mind wonder. Every time he stops to think about the past, anger bubbles up this hate for Lance and the situation but on the opposite side of that coin all the love he felt for him returns as well.
Finishing up the laces on his combat boots. He quickly left the sleeping quarters. Making eye contact with himself on the windows reflective surface. He would never get used to his purple skin, sharper ears, and yellow eyes. His hands were a darker purple now too, with sharp claws at the end of them. He knew he was half Galra and when mother had given him his current assignment, she had also handed down her blade.
The frequent use of the Galran blade and consumption of a Galran pear-like fruit had cause Keith to activate some Galra traits. The difference in appearance is what allowed him to become a Yorak, the knight, an asset to the Galran Castle.
Making his way to the throne room, he noticed a light blue-purpleish glow from the corner of his eye. Quickly he braced for impact as an ~130 pound space wolf pounced to greet him.
"Oof! Kosmo! You big oaf, off now."
Kosmo's tailed wagged as his full body shaked. He would lick Keith's cheeks and then decide he needed to lick his arms, mouth, hair. Anywhere he could reach.
"Kosmo enough! I'm happy to see you too boy. Alright, what does mom want now, huh?"
Looking at him confused, Keith knew the drill, Kosmo wasn't going to teleport him without collecting his reward. Ever since he gave him some leftover food, Kosmo learned that he didn't have to do things for free anymore.
"Ok boy, I promise to bring you something good later, if you bring me to mom now. Ok?"
Barking at him, Kosmo went to run stopping once he realized Keith wasn't chasing him.
"Oh, come on boy. I'm serious I can't play games now, I need to go to the throne room but if mom sent you it's because it's important."
Yipping at him it seemed Kosmo wanted him to beg.
"Kosmo, I promise ok", going to pet him, he grabbed his face, "whose a good boy, you're a good boy, yes you are!"
Kosmo loved praise as Keith pet him a similar bluish-purple light appeared.
"Well, don't let me stop ya." Krolia smirked
"Don't even ask, you know how he gets. He won't do anything for free anymore if it's no treats it has to be pets."
Chuckling, Krolia said, "Well, He always behaves for me"
"It's cause you spoil him"
"Maybe" shrugging, Krolia couldn't be bothered to deny it.
Looking at his surroundings it seems like he was in an inn. His mother must have rented a room.
"Where are you now?"
"Not important, I needed to speak with you though, one of my informants has received some shoking news."
Not shockingly Keith thought. Krolia had explained to him her being a Queen, who was to be murdered but survived. She had left when his father passed to come up with a way to take down Zarkon and Honerva. After they disappeared, Krolia realized she needed an unknown spy somewhere in the inside. She made her way back to Earthus to ask for aid.
~~~~~~~
Rain on Earthus one of its most frequent weathers, well compared to Daibazzal, which suffered from constant dry seasons. A hooded figure makes their way to the one of the houses on castle grounds. The Royal grounds of Earthus are bigger than most, yet our figure seems to know exactly where they are going.
The soft droplets of water fall onto the ground. It had rained all day and seemed it would continue through the night. Keith looks out the window in his room. He spends most days like this, ever since the Alteans left to try to take down Zarkon. It hadn't been too long maybe a little less than a week, but Keith was grieving.
The lost of friends, a future and a lover. That and he was playing the faithful day in his head on repeat. Looking down at his hands, he saw the promise ring he had bought to give to Lance. Keith wasn't a big gesture kind of guy, but he thought Lance would appreciate the sentiment. However, know it just felt heavy in his hands like a weight an anchor that tied him to the past to broken promises.
Would it be to late to take it all back? To join Lance?
A knock at the door distracted him from his thoughts and self loathing.
"Keith, can I come in?" As soon as he asked it he continued by saying, "I'm coming in."
Opening the door, Keith cursed himself for not locking it, Shiro let himself in.
"Would it kill you to tidy up, it's only been a week and it already looks like something has died in here."
"What do you want from me! I'm pretty sure siblings are supposed be sympathetic when one of them goes through a break up!"
"Breakup? Keith... I thought they went to go defeat Zarkon and win back Altea, isn't that good news?"
"What of course it is...it's just we had promised eachother...together forever."
"Oh...Keith...I'm sorry. Take it from me though sometimes someone we love will have to do something we don't agree with...they're, err- your entitled to decide if you'll take them back or accept them when or if they return."
"Hmmm...sounds like you went through something yourself."
Shrugging, Shiro gave nothing away, "more or less."
"Thanks Shiro."
"Anytime. Now I brought you your dinner, try to eat something and get some sleep, ok?"
"I'll try..."
"Good."
And with that Shiro left him to his thoughts again. Keith spent the next hours wide awake, lying in his bed it felt so big now. While yes, Lance had his own room on castle, but sometimes, ok most nights, they would spend together, especially after they announced they were dating.
Keith remembers Lance "sneaking in" because Coran would tell him it was proper for a Prince to spend the night in another's chamber. But Lance and Keith could've cared less, besides they mostly just slept on those nights.
Sighing to himself, he pushed the covers off him. Grabbing one of his shirts from the floor he threw it on, making his way to the door. The maids and housekeepers should have been dismissed for the night and no one would be there to see him in his depressed state. His hair a rat's nest, eyes red and with heavy eye bags. The night was comforting because in the dark he could hide.
Making his way to the kitchen, he was sure he could find something to eat. The sound of heavy rain could be heard, and looking out the kitchen window the night had fully settled and all that could be seen was the faint light of the gardens lanterns.
Going to turn on the stove, it was black and stone embellishments. Much of the kitchen was wood with stone embellishments. The walls were cobblestone and on the ceilings hung a candle chandelier.
Keith looked around at the kitchen it had a homey feel, yet he never noticed, because most of his life the homey feeling had always come from the people in his life. Looking for a pan, Keith decided to distract himself with deciding what to make.
He had finally found an adequate pan, when he heard it...the faint sound of someone knocking, and then the rattling of a wooden door.
"Shiro? Is that you?"
Keith, pan in hand, went to go investigate the sound. He was sure it was just Shiro messing with him...right?
"Shiro, if you locked yourself in the bathroom, again, I will laugh!"
Turning the corner, he peaked first before he continued done the hall. The rattling continued and Keith came to the realization that it wasn't the bathroom door that was rattling it was the front door...
"Shiro?"
He stepped slowly towards the future door, anxious his heart beat speeding up...
Shatter!
Taking a step back, glass shards scattered across the floor, some landing by Keith's bare feet.
Jaw hanging wide open Keith couldn't believe what just happened...what was staring back at him....and who that person was.
"Uhhh...sorry about that."
The sound was loud enough to wake up Shiro, who came down from upstairs, disheveled and underdressed.
"Krolia!?"
"Keith...Shiro....it's been a while...."
Dropping the pan he had in hand, it let out a loud thud as it hit the ground, Keith following suit, fainting at the sight of his long lost mom.
~~~~~~~~
Nursing the bruise on his head with a pack of ice Shiro had fetched for him. They were sitting in the kitchen. Krolia in a change of clothes and a towel to dry off from the rain.
Shiro had dragged an unconscious Keith to the lounge chair in the living room. Laying him down he had helped Krolia clean the broken glass from the window near the front door. Then he had let Krolia take a shower and it wasn't till the water for tea had boiled that Keith had managed to regain consciousness.
Now he sat across from Krolia, as she sipped her tea, and making small conversation with Shiro....like she belonged. Like she never left at all.
Keith tuned into their conversation just as they switched to talking about him.
"So, what do you think? Will he ever stop death glaring at me?"
"No, Krolia I don't think I can stop 'death glaring' you left us and now walk in here like you belong!"
"Keith..." Concern on her face, Keith didn't want her to cower, he wanted the truth.
"Krolia, Keith is right, why are you here now?"
Crossing his arms, Keith was glad Shiro was on his side, after all Krolia was like a mother to him as well.
"I get it, I don't deserve your trust, but I need help."
"Help?! Try needing a mother or family!"
"Keith! We don't need to kick her while she's down, she looks apologetic."
"No! She left us Shiro just as we lost dad---"
"I did it to keep you safe!" Seeing that Keith nor Shiro were going to butt in she continued her explanation, "You both know I'm Galra, but you don't know I have ties to galran throne...you both have a sister and I need help, someone I can trust, the galra's can't be trusted. Even if the war ends, there are those who will support Zarkon and his empire until they die..."
Krolia had continued her explanation and when she finished silence filled the room.
Krolia was a queen?
Their sister, a princess, was in danger?
Krolia needed an inside man, and she knew she could trust Keith...
"Take all the time you need to process, I know this is a lot but I truly wouldn't have asked if it was life or death..."
Without thinking Keith responded, "No! I'll do it!" Well...it sounded like he hadn't thought it through but he had. This is what he had always wanted, find his mom, learn about his galra side, and an excuse to forget about Lance. This was the solution, what could go wrong?
"Keith? Are you sure, I know things and rocky right now but this seems serious and a little dangerous..." Shiro brought his hand closer to his, almost if he was asking if he could hold it, he turned his body to face Keith as well. Concern was written all over his face. Because before it was Lance and his new friends it was Shiro and Keith against the world. Brothers they navigated the lose of a father and abandonment of a mother.
Making eye contact with Shiro he then looked to Krolia as he said, "Yes. I'm sure I need to do this...I want to help."
Krolia and Shiro shared a brief glance, almost as if Shiro was asking Krolia to keep him safe and Krolia thanking him for keeping him safe for so long.
"Alright then! We leave tonight!"
"Tonight?!" Keith shrieked. That was so soon, like way to soon...
"Yes, I can exactly guarantee our safety if we stay put for to long, there are eyes everywhere, frankly not many can be trusted. The faster we move the better informed we will be and this will give us a leg up against our enemies."
"Jeez...this is extremely vague and serious..."
"Yes, Keith...we need to dedicate ourselves completely to the task."
Grabbing his shoulder, Shiro smiled at him as he said, "Don't worry, you got this, I believe in you. I'll let the maids and butlers know they can take the day off, and I'll do my best to get positioned in Daibazaal, so you can atleast have someone to trust."
"Thank you, Shiro."
"Seems as it's settled. Keith pack light, but leave nothing with sentimental value behind, I don't know when you'll be able to come back."
On instinct Keith grabbed the ring he kept on a chain. The gesture didn't go unnoticed by Shiro, "Don't worry he'll pack light, this place holds more memories than material possessions."
Understanding dawned on Krolia's face, standing she walked to were Keith was sitting and slowly wrapped her arms around him. Holding on tight, Keith let silent tears fall.
Krolia then outstretched her arms to Shiro, Keith turning to nodd a him.
They stayed there in a silent hug for a while. Letting themselves and one another let go of a certain pain they had held onto for awhile.
It was comforting.
It was family.
It was home.
~~~~~~~
They had moved to sitting on the single bed in the room. It was quiet and Keith could hear the sound of rain just as he had years ago. Krolia finally begins to explain what her informant had spotted: an Altean carriage traveling through the dead of night, making fast work of the journey.
"They should be arriving to Daibazzal soon."
"I'm confused, isn't this good news? If Alteans are coming that must mean peace talks. Right?"
"Maybe...but depending on whose coming it could spell disaster, especially if Altea was left unguarded."
"Are you saying war is going to break out again?"
"I'm not sure." Switching from a serious tone to a playful one, "How's it going with your sister? Does she trust you yet?"
"Uhhhh. Define trust?"
"Keith gaining Acxa's trust as a knight is important, if she trusts you she'll ask for guidance and let you in on certain plans."
"I know! I know. But it's not my fault, she's definitely noticed me but Lotor always drags her away before we have a good chance to talk."
Humming, Keith knew Krolia didn't care for Lotor, he wasn't sure why she never told him anything suspicious about him, and while yes Lotor was an ass, egotistical, and he guesses would have a motive, Keith thought the man was too full of himself to be the true big bad.
"What's your deal with him?"
"Nothing. He just reminds me too much of Honerva. However he's never done anything we can use against him."
"Well, you should be heading back, keep your eyes open Keith, I fear the true battle is about to begin."
"Yes, ma'am"
Kosmo appeared from where he had disappeared to, probably finding some unsuspecting victim to steal food from. He made his way to Keith. Patting his head Krolia then said, "take care of him boy, I'm not sure he'll listen to me."
Backing away from Keith and Kosmo she smiled at him. Keith mirroring the gesture.
As the blue and purplish light begins to shine, signaling Kosmo's teleportation, Krolia yells out,
"Keith...the Altean crown prince will be there...keep your guard up!"
Shoked by the words, when he felt his feet touch ground once more he took off running. His heart thumping in his chest. Crowned Prince? As Yorak, Keith basically lives under a rock. He trains, eats, spies here and there, but he still heard the news of who Allura crowned as Altea's next in line. That and the fact he still has his holo pad from Earth, the one a young Keith might have subscribed to an Earthus gossip magazine, and maybe when the news was first announced. Keith's jaw dropped at Lance's photo in the front cover of the magazine.
Keith also may or may not stare at the magazine from time to time admiring his past lovers looks...
Needless to say Keith was pretty sure he knew who would be arriving. Lance... and for some unknown reason his head and heart were telling him to run to them. There was this wanting to see them, to hold them, to make sure they were alright. To whisk them away. Away from life as a Prince and Spy. To be together again.
Throwing the doors to the throne room open. All eyes went to Keith.
Staring at the arrivals, Yorak was glad for the mask, a part of his uniform. As he tired to catch his breath his face broke out into a smile at who had arrived.
Lance.
ווווו
Lance woke up slowly, sunlight streaming in from the carts window. Valerie was a comforting warmth sleeping next to him. Lance stretched his arms over his head, sighing as he stretched. He then shifted to face Val.
Tucking her black hair behind her ears, there were pointed like Lance's, but her hair, her har was dark like Keith's
"Oh, little girl why are you so much like your father." Lance whispered.
He slowly crept out of bed and covered Valerie with her favorite blanket. Slowly he crept out of his room and went to get something to eat.
"Lance! Where's little Valerie?" Romelle walked out of the room across the hall from his, Allura's.
Shushing Romelle, Lance closed the door. "She's sleeping. Had a goodnight?"
"Wouldn't you like to know" Romelle raised their eyebrow smirking at him.
Romelle was an Omega aswell, they had been friends with the Royal altean family since childhood. Romelle had survived on their own during the war, and for their bravery they had been added as an asset a diplomatic ambassador for Altea.
"I'm starving" Rolling their eyes, Lance follows behind Romelle on the hunt for food.
Coran and Allura are already sitting digging into their late breakfast, something they learned on Earthus, brunch.
"Lance, Romelle! How good for you to join us! Now I know we are a little tired and confused as to why we are meeting with Daibazzal, but this could be good for Altea."
"I'm sorry Coran, I don't understand how we can go to Daibazzal, talk to them like they aren't the enemy!" Lance complained.
"Woah, Lance, tell us how you really feel." Romelle teased. Rolling their eyes Lance stood by what he said.
"Well, I can understand the frustration Lance, but we have to move on, this is a necessary step."
"Yes Lance, Coran is right. Altea can't afford to be egotistical, we need to humble ourselves and take this olive branch. I understandyour fear it'snot easy for any of us." Allura words weren't loud but they were firm and loving. Looking around the other Alteans nodded their heads in agreement with her words.
Sighing, Lance leaned back in his chair. "Yes, your right."
"Coran was just telling me would should be there soon, as custom Lance and I will dress in the royal Altean garments when we first meet the Galran princess and prince."
"Ooo wow the royal garments, y'all gonna look so good!" Romelle teased as she sipped her drink.
"Aren't they a little flashy, Allura? That was our custom before the war and with allies--"
Rasing her hand to stop Lance, Allura said, "We have to put our best foot forward, if we deviate from the past I fear they could not take these peace talks seriously. This is important for us. Do we all understand?"
Nodding they did understand, didn't mean they liked it.
"Ok, ok we still have a couple hours, we don't have to be so sour--"
"Mommy?"
"In here dear!"
"Val!" Scooping her up, Romelle peppered her with kisses.
"Auntie! Can we go outside?"
"Sorry Val, we need to get some place soon, but when we get there I promise we can play outside."
Blowing a raspberry Valerie didn't like the answer. "I'm bored now!"
"Aren't you hungry sweetheart?"
"Yes!"
Laughing Valerie brought happiness to the Alteans and to the stressful situation.
~~~~~~~~
They had finished brunch with little time to spare. Coran rushed Allura and Lance to change and Romelle was keeping Val entertained.
Sighing as they entered their room, Lance went to the chest holding the royal garments. They knew they had packed it, but they were kinda hoping Allura would have a change of heart and say fuck it let's pull up in jeans and sweats, but obliviously she was right they had to put there best foot forward.
As Lance clipped the last of the royal jewelry to their neck. The elaborate necklace brought attention to their neck and the unmarked scent glads on display. While their neck was covered their shoulders were bare. Long sleeves covered Lance's arms, and bracelets and anklets accentuated the look. Finally a flowy cape attached to their outfit and swayed behind it.
As Lance stared at himself in the mirror, he felt the air shift and the jingle of a bell a tell tale sign he was no longer alone.
"Narti. What do you want?"
"Just curious, why are the little mice entering a lions den?" Narti spoke telepathically, her mouth opened but no sound came out only in Lance's mind did they hear her.
Turning around they made eye contact with Narti, a shape shifter. Lance wasn't sure of her acutal name and when she appeared to him she was always a small cat-like creature.
"Lions den? What do you mean? What do you know?"
"Nothing, just that my master will be in contact soon, they sent me with a welcome message, and a gift."
On the bed, in front of Narti laid a Luxite Blade, Lance had seen this before.
"What does your master want, now?"
"Oh Lance, do you not trust them, do you not trust me? My master cares for you, after all didn't they give you Zarkon and Honerva?"
"Oh please, we were able to stop them, but they disappeared before we could capture them. Your master failed."
"No Lance, you failed. But my master understands they are giving you one more chance. They will be in contact soon, in the meantime keep the blade close."
And just as she appeared she disappeared. The soft jingle of a bell following her out..
Running his hands through his hands, Lance went to reach for the blade. In his haste he knicked himself.
"Fucking shit. What a mess!" Aggravated, he grabbed whatever he could find to stop the blood.
"You're the mess..." Now facing them in the mirror, wasn't a reflection but a fear, anxiety swirled through his body. Lance tried not to look.
"What is it little prince? Are you scared"
"Leave me alone!" Yelling never helped but he didn't want to listen. He knew why this was happening, every time he remembered that day, he remembers the fear and adrenaline, how he went for the kill with the luxite blade, he hadn't missed he had hesitated and in those brief seconds Honerva and Zarkon disappeared.
If only he had killed them, ended it, maybe they wouldn't have to deal with this all. Maybe Keith wouldn't have left, maybe he could face the Lance in the mirror. Or maybe it was because Lance had accepted Narti's masters help...
Clearly if someone had a tool that could take out Zarkon but didn't use it, it was because 1) he was a coward or 2) he was a bigger monster...
"Lance? Are you ready?" Coran says we are almost there."
"Yes. Coming!"
Sighing, Lance pushed down all their feelings and puts on a smile. Silently to Lance says to themselves, fuck it they won't know what hit them. Grabbing the blade, Lance stashes on their person which isn't easy with his outfit, but they make it work.
As they arrive at Daibazzal, Coran leads Allura and Lance to the throne room. Romelle and Valerie stay behind, being given the Royal tour.
Making their way to the throne room, Coran introduces them.
Lance notices the princess looks worried while the prince smiles wide clearly excited they are here.
"Princess Acxa, Prince Lotor. Thank you for the invitation." Allura bows and Lance follows suit.
"Raise, you both are our esteemed guests, it is an honor for you to be here."
"Now we have much to discuss, but I understand it was a long journey and we have plenty of time for formalities. Now, I was hoping someone would be here to give you both the tour, but that is fine Lotor would love to."
"Of course, sister."
What a prick, lance thought, even if he was all smiles he clearly thought himself beneath tours.
"Now--
The sound of the throne doors being thrown open caught them off guard.
A single galra soldier strolled in, talk about being late, clearly they had ran. Chest heaving as they stood there.
"Yorak!"
"Highnesses." He then bowed to show his respect and apologies.
Sighing Acxa pinched the bridge of her nose, as Lotor leaned into whisper something to her, what was going on?
"Yorak, your late." Acxa said with an exasperated breath.
"I apologize--" Raising to his feet.
"No matter, this is Princess Allura and Prince Lawrence, our Altean guests."
"Please make them feel welcomed.
That will be all Lotor and I have something important to discuss, but we will be speaking soon, get some rest, and enjoy your stay here, as our guests, friends and allies."
At that both Allura and Lance gasped but composed themselves quickly.
"Thank you." Allura and Lance said in practiced unison, Coran quickly adding.
"We're grateful and pickled happy, highnesses."
"Pickled happy??"
"Ah! It's an Earthus expression we learned from our time there."
"Very well. It was nice to meet you all. Yorak if you'd please."
"Verpit sa!" Saluting Yorak stood at attention
"Verpit sa." Acxa repeated to him
Acxa then said something in Galran, whatever it was it seemed she meant it for Yorak as he nodded and bowed his head.
With that Axca and Lotor left by a side door, clearly up to something suspicious, thought Lance.
"This way, if you'd please." Yorak spoke breaking Lance's thoughts as to were the Galran siblings were heading.
"Thank you."
~~~~~~~~~
Yorak led the way. Coran walking next to him talking about the architecture and history of Daibazzal, telling him all the galran tales there was in Altea.
Lance and Allura walked behind them. Silent but observant. Making a map in their head, Lance charted out possible exits and made a note of were guards were positioned.
Turning into a long hallway, Yorak stopped.
"Coran, Princess Allura, these two are your rooms. I hope you find them to your liking. Your laugguae has already been brought up if there is anything else you need a maid will be positioned out front."
"Thank you, Yorak."
Making their way into their rooms, Allura shared a brief glance with Lance. Clearly telling him to be careful and be well prepared. Lance would meet up with her later to compare what she observed.
Yorak then lead Lance further down the hall. He was stiff while he walked and occasionally Lance would notice him glancing back towards them but clearly not wanting to be caught.
Lance, ever the cocky little prince decided to test the waters. Surely a galran soldier could help them make sense of Daibazzal and it's leaders.
"So... how do you like Daibazzal, it must be a nice place, right?"
Shrugging Yorak said, "it's alri-- I mean it's beautiful Daibazzal has some great history and much valuable materials. I enjoy living here."
"That's nice." Lamce decided to get in closer, walking side by side with Yorak they asked.
"What about the people, do they enjoy Daibazzal?" Maybe they were pushing it but if Yorak showed any signs of discomfort Lance would think there was something being hidden.
"I can't speak for everyone but Daibazzal is a fine place."
"Yes, I'm sure it has it's charms."
Yorak turning to face Lance, "Yes, I was thought you can't judge a group for a few bad eggs, or you don't throw away a basket of apples for one rotten apple."
Making eye contact and folding his arms Lance said, "Yes, but apples and eggs aren't murderers."
"Neither am I."
"Never said you were"
Yorak then gestured to a door, "this is your room Lanc-- Prince Lawrence."
"Thank you, for what it's worth your one of the good apples."
"I guess I'll take that as a compliment."
"Good." Lance answered chuckling, Yorak followed suit.
"Lance! Momma!" Running up to them Romelle had Valerie in her arms.
"Oh! My baby! How did you enjoy your tour!"
"It was sooo cool, look sticker!"
"Wow! What a cute sticker honey."
Playing with the sticker, Val was focused.
"Thank you Romelle, any trouble?"
"No, but there was the wolf-dog that wouldn't leave us alone for a while, right Val a puppy?"
Romelle asked Valerie, taking her hand in his to get her attention.
"Yes puppy! Can I have puppy?"
"Sorry honey, I'm sure he has a home."
"Awww, who?"
"I'm not sure, Yorak do you know anyone who has a dog?"
"What--"
"A dog?"
Romelle and Lance turned to look at Yorak who had begun to shake.
"Are you okay?" Romelle asked.
"A baby?"
"What?"
It was hard to tell, because Yorak was wearing a mask, but it seemed he was looking straight at Valerie. Stepping up, Lance shielded her as best he could.
"You good, Yorak?"
Yorak didn’t answer instead he fell to the ground with a loud thump! Mumbling something like Ihaveakid as he fell.
"Oh my god!" Romelle gasped.
"Shit!"
"Sht" repeated Valerie.
"Way to go Lance you killed a Galran while trying to establish peace with Daibazzal." Whisper-yelled Romelle.
"Shut up, and help me find someone to help, oh god this is bad."
"On it." Romelle went to get help leaving Valerie with Lance.
"Momma, why is he on the floor?" Valerie asked concerned.
"I'm not sure honey, but between you and me, he must have needed a nap."
"Oh, goodnight mister." Holding Val tight Lance was glad she could joke at a time like this. Oh gosh Allura was gonna kill them.
Notes:
See my Design for Lance Here: https://www.deviantart.com/stash/01o64v7vdut9
See my Design for Keith Here:
https://www.deviantart.com/stash/0x261op877k
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Here's a list of songs that inspired this chapter:
I Hate Everything About You- there feelings to their hidden self's, but they still love the person behind the "masks"
Strange- strangers to friends to lovers back to strangers
Bombs on Monday Morning- the pinky promise scene
Die Alone- the fact Keith wasn't looking for Lance and Lance wasn't looking for Keith.
Forget I Exist- Sam Macpherson- again with the fact they are strangers again.
I'm open to answer any questions! Thanks for Reading!
Chapter 3: Chapter 2-All I Ever Wanted
Summary:
Finally being together and realizing what responsibilities they face, Keith and Lance must now see a way to get what they want.
Will they be able to? Is this really all they have ever wanted?
Notes:
Hello!! Still dying at work, but I really wanted to post another chapter before the end of the month, so here is Chapter 2!
Hope you like it! Don't forget there is a playlist:
https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRLoV339oEc5tNBsqhbbPKtGKfjrd29-Y&si=IPZlGHrTk4cwE53w
I will also list the songs the inspired this chapter at the end.
P.S please do me a favor and picture that any time Yorak is talking to Lance or Val he has his mask on, with Shiro or Anyone else he's taken it off. It can activate and deactivate by a press of a button on the side.
Thank you! Y'all the best!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
A gentle knock on her door alarmed Allura. It was the morning after they arrived. She had barely slept the night before, none of them had. Romelle came barging into her room, Coran behind them, yesterday, yelling, that a Lance had killed a Galra.
Not killed, she later found out, after some unnatural heart palpations.
Romelle quickly sensing her distress, clarified, "not dead, just fainted. He's being brought to the infirmary."
Still Allura gave Lance a stern talking to. They had told her that they hadn't say anything to bad, just that they may have insinuated that he was a murderer... Allura lost it then.
Romelle and her going for a walk outside, on castle grounds. Romelle asking her to try to relax. Allura was just nervous she didn't understand why they were brought here, what the Galra royals wanted, and how to keep everything formal when she wanted to throw away the towel, scream and strangle someone.
Now thinking about it maybe she had been to harsh with Lance. Remembering Romelle's words...
"Try to breathe Allura, we have to be patient, remember what Shiro used to say? Patience yields focus, once we know what's wanted we can come up with a plan."
Smiling Romelle had reminded her of there good friends back at Earthus, their family. While they hadn't lost touch with Hunk and Pidge, nor the other Earthus royals. Shiro and his brother had left Earthus, new missions she supposes. Their once easy and carefree life was in Earthus, however it was a illusion, she realizes now. They would always have to step up take back Altea and try to navigate peace with the galra.
Sighing at the second knock at the door, she then said, "One second."
Wrapping herself in a robe to cover her night gown, she made her way to the door. Opening she didn't expect who was on the other side.
"Ac-- err Princess Acxa! What an honor" bowing in bewteen her sentence Allura continued, "is there something you need?"
"Princess Allura, please don't alarm yourself, I simply want to talk." Allura notices Acxa seemed anxious, like she wasn't supposed to be here or like she didn't know how Allura would respond. Allura was intrigued what could Acxa want to tell her?
"Oh! Please come in, we can talk in the foyer." Closing the door behind her Acxa seemed to let her shoulders un-tense.
Allura poured water, the maid had brought in earlier today, into glasses. One for her one for Acxa. Passing it to her guest she sat across from where Acxa had made herself comfortable. Taking a sip to give Acxa time to start the conversation, Acxa seemed nervously sipping her water. Allura cleared her throat, "uhhh... well I'm extremely grateful for the invitation to Daibazzal, and to stay at the palace, hopefully this is a sign of good things to come, but what did you want to talk about?"
Setting down her glass, Acxa began, "Allura. Have you ever heard of the saying peace can't be had without understanding?"
"No, but I do agree if we want peace, and I assume it's what we want, we have to understand each other. I'd like to try but...uhm-- permission to speak openly?" Allura made eye contact with Acxa, she wasn't sure what Acxa would say but she had a feeling since she went out of her way to talk, she'd be willing to hear Allura's side.
"Yes, what's said here can and will stay bewteen us."
"Great! I knew I liked you," Chuckling while speaking Acxa was a woman of a few words, Allura sensed the mood shift to something lighter.
"Well, I want to put the past behind us, and move foward, but not many Alteans can just forget. Zarkon and the Galra attacked us, destroyed our home, families were lost, our way of life, our culture. I don't think we can shake hands, put a bandaid on this, and call it day or think things are resolved. We need more and I think we need time."
"What are you asking exactly?"
"Well--" Allura started but was stopped by Acxa.
"Listen. Allura I know what Zarkon did, what in turn, I guess, what the galra will be blamed for. I'm not denying or minimizing what happened, but Honerva attacked Altea too, she was Altean. As well as Zarkon did it out of the love he lost to Altean hands. Not to mention, do you know where Zarkon was from originally?"
He was from Nexula, a small country that joined Daibazzal, Allura knew the history. What was her point? Acxa continuing after a few seconds.
"Nexula. Nexula joined Daibazzal because they needed help. When they asked for help from Altea they were dismissed. Did you know that? Nexula was the only option. Even if Daibazzal saw the potential danger in giving Zarkon the throne. However after when Queen Krolia was lost all your father did was bribe Zarkon with a false truce. Honerva, later known as Haggar, was a way for your father to "atone" for his dismissal of Daibazzal. And haggar was the one who discovered Quintessence and it's usefulness."
"What are you saying, why are you telling me this, I refuse to believe it!"
"Allura it's the truth, it's written in our history, don't deny it."
She was right, Allura knew her father wasn't innocent and Haggar had once been Honerva an Altean scientist. Honerva had discovered that Quintessence, a certain energy could be harvested, however as any good scientist knows matter can not be created or destroyed it is transferred. Quintessence came from everyone from everything. While, yes Haggar did discover this, Zarkon was the one who lead the attack on Altea, but the truth it could have been anyone any nation. Her father knew of the studies, he funded most of them, but when it had become to dangerous Honerva was promised to Zarkon as a sign of good faith. Allura guesses no one was innocent in war, and even when bleedshed ended the decisions made would still impact them.
Allura having been quiet for a while was brought out of her thoughts by Acxa's words, "listen Allura as much as I know the truth hurts, I had to say my peace, like you said yours. I'm done beating myself up because of what my fath-- what Zarkon did. I know my blood is tainted now and I can not dry the tears shed or bring back the lives lost, but I... want to move forward, I do want peace."
Allura understood they were different sides of the same coin. Acxa had grown up reminded of her father's mistakes while Allura had seen his bravery, but they both were responsible.
"Thank you Acxa. While I try to remember by father as a hero, and while he didn't directly kill anyone, he too had blood on his hands. But, how do you suggest we move on, we might agree but our people our Kingdoms will have these scars for generations."
"Yes, well this is why I came to you alone, I want to explain something to you something that you can't back out of, if you accept."
Acxa tensed shoulders returned and she bit the bottom of her lip building the courage to speak.
"Allura, one of the ways Nexula and Daibazzal built such a close bond is because of their relationship. While family ties, blood ties hold strong, they can't be made, but marriage ties can."
Shocked Allura guesses that would make sense, thinking logically she said, "A marriage between Altea and Daibazzal, it could work but we'd have to go all in."
"Yes..."
"Well, I'm flattered Acxa, but I--"
"Wait, hear me out first, please..."
Acxa took Allura's silence as an okay to continue.
"Well, Daibazzal rule states that once a son is born he will be heir to the throne, meaning my half brother Lotor is the true heir to Daibazzal. In order to have an official match the Altean in question needs to have ties with the Altean throne. We thought it could only be you, but then you crowned Lance as your protege or second in line if no blood line is established or if something were to happen..."
"Yes? And?"
"If Lotor marries Lance it will be a marriage that is recognized, you can stay on the throne and Lance can stay in Daibazaal as Lotor's mate."
"You mean prisoner..."
"Oh no! I assure you my brother is a good man. A little loud and maybe a tad pompous but Lance will be well taken care of." Acxa tried to assuage Allura's fears, but she didn't understand. Lance gave up so much for Altea. They had a child; the burden of the crown was Allura's to carry. Allura had asked Lance all those years ago to fight for Altea to put Altea first and they had. Now, she could see Lance was traumatized by it, regretted it, and Allura couldn't put them through that again.
"No. I wouldn't ask that of Lance. He's like a brother my only blood family. He deserves not to suffer for our father's crimes. What if it was I who married Lotor?"
"Allura? Are you sure?"
"Yes, heavy is the crown, but I will wear it proudly."
"Well, it would have to be discussed. Two reigning heirs we will have to decide what would be the best course of action. The only example I have is Daibazzal and Nexula. Zarkon moved to the Daibazzal castle but Nexula's territory was brought under Daibazzal rule." Pondering for a little while Acxa knew they would have to establish a plan.
"Well, I'll let you sit and marinate on this information. We will address this formally later today. But Allura if Lotor on behalf of Daibazzal is to ask for your hand for Altea, there will be no going back."
"I understand, I will talk this over with my advisors, but in the end the choice is mine, and I will choose what is best for Altea."
Standing, Acxa went to shake Allura's hand, Allura drawing her into an embrace.
"Thank you, Acxa. I'm glad we both dream of peace."
Patting Allura's back, Acxa was tense as she replied, "Yes, I'm glad we can try for peace."
Acxa excused herself and made her way out of Allura's room. As the door closed. There was a cold breeze and a heavy mood that sunk into the room. Falling onto her knees, her shoulders shook as her tears fell. Slowly she soon began to sob, her breath came in ragged gasps. She was shaking as throat felt contrsticted, and her head pounded with unsaid thoughts. Her room was silent as she sobbed her heart out, alone, glad no one was there to see her this way.
It is Romelle who finds her. Tears long since run out. She is laying on her side now, eyes glazed over and her hair a frizzy mess as it lays around her.
"Allura!" Startled Romelle run and kneels down to make sure she is okay. They push the hair from her eyes. Allura tilts her head to stare up at Romelle.
"Oh, Allura what's wrong, what happened?"
"I spoke with Acxa..."
"What, with out us? About what? What did she want?"
Tears silently fell from Allura's eyes. Romelle wiping them away, gently. Helping Allura to her knees and then her feet they guide her to sit down, and pour her a fresh glass of water. Coran, who had been with Romelle, made his way to Allura's room. Romelle sat next to Allura running a gentle hand up and down her thigh for comfort. As Coran made his way in then, they made eye contact with him silently telling him to wait until Allura spoke.
Finally breaking her daze, Allura leaned her head to rest on Romelle's shoulder. She then spoke, "Acxa told me the reason why we are here...there's a way we can establish peace."
"Peace? Oh that's excellent" Coran beamed as he spoke, Romelle silently nodding in agreement with Coran.
However, they sensed Allura didn't share their excitement. "Is there something we don't know?" Romelle asked as she stroked Allura's arm, in a psuedo embrace.
"Well...it's just that she told me...she wants peace too. She's had to live under Zarkon shadow as I live under my father's. For peace...there plan is to show people that Altea and Daibazzal have grown a strong bond."
"Really? How exactly we can't just shake hands--
"A wedding..." Allura mumbles cutting Romelle off.
"A wedding?" Coran questions.
"Yes, Lotor will ask for my hand..."
"What!" Romelle hand tenses and the arm wrapped around Allura drops to their side. She stares jaw dropped at Allura. "Allura? I..."
Unspoken goes the words they want to say, unexpressed emotions fill the room. Allura understands Romelle's hesitating but she's made up her mind. "Romelle, this is for Altea."
"Yea, it's just I never thought we'd have to give up so much...I-I have to go. I need air" Suffocating from the emotions in their head, Romelle stumbles to the door.
"Where?" Coran asks clearly not seeing the unspoken conversation between Allura and Romelle.
"Let them go Coran" Allura chokes back tears as she speaks and as Romelle leaves the room.
"But...oh Allura. I'm sorry."
"I've made my peace with it, Romelle will too."
"Yes...but-"
"Where's Lance, I want to let them know what's going on..."
She wanted to be selfish to tell them that she had bit the bullet for their sake, she wanted to scream to show someone how responsible she was being. But that was the thing about being responsible and taking accountability, it was for the greater good not for praise or to brag...
~~~~~~~~~
Giggles fill the air, as Valerie runs to hide behind a column in the west garden. The west garden was a historical garden filled with Galran Statues of past rulers, which the tour guides had pointed out, explaining all the historical figures of Daibazzal.
However, Valerie hadn't paid attentioned at that part of the tour. Instead she had seen the excellent hiding places in the garden and the pretty water features as well. Little creatures hopped here and there from the plants in the water.
"Where'd you go?" Lance called out, rounding the corner they had seen their daughter turn to. The garden truly was beautiful, graceful water features and architecture. Columns of red with black, grey and gold accents. Walls a similar red which contrasted nicely against the greenery.
Covering her mouth with her hands, Valerie held her breath trying to stay as still and as silent as possible. Looking over her shoulder she saw Lance walking past her hiding place.
She uncovered her mouth and let her laughter escape. Checking once more where her mama went she didn't see them anymore.
Stepping foward to leave her hiding place, she turned around when she heard the snap of a twig.
"Got cha'"
Screaming in laughter, Lance began to tickle her as they held her tight planting kisses as she squirmed against their hold.
"Mama! Stop! Stop."
"Na ah, I won fair and square. I'm the champion!"
"Again! Again!"
"Again? Don't you ever get tired?"
"Nope!"
"No?!"
"No!" Laughing at Lance's defeat, she squirmed out of their hold making a beeline to another hiding place.
"Oh no. Get back here Valerie, we really have to check on the others. Valerie!"
"Gosh, this kid."
"Val! Val! Where did you go, come on honey we can't play anymore. " Sighing to themselves, Lance knew the drill they weren't done playing unless Val was done. As they approached another column, Lance walked slowly. They were sure that Val was hidden behind this one as well.
"Got cha!"
As they pounced he realized their mistake, Valerie had outsmarted him. She had fooled him and instead of hiding behind the column she had hid in a nearby bush.
"Got cha!" She taunted.
As Lance accepted defeat, they crumpled to the ground, Val crawling on top of them pinning Lance down.
"I'm defeated, you win."
"Yes! I win!" Puffing out her cheeks, Val was extremely proud of herself. "I tickle mama now!"
"Wha--" Before Lance could protest, Valerie's tiny hands were tickling them wherever she could reach. Laughing at being tickled, Lance hadn't noticed the footsteps approaching.
"Lance?" Sitting up fast, Lance looked up at the familiar face. The streak of white hair and the scar across the bridge of his nose. Shiro? Holding Val, Lance struggled as he stood.
"Shiro? Shiro!? Shiro! Oh man I heard you accepted a new Earthus position, I didn’t know it was a diplomatic position for Daibazaal!" Lance exclaimed as he brought his hand to grasp Shiro's shoulder.
"Huh?... Oh…yes." Shiro said as confusion morphed into a soft smile.
"That’s good. Glad to see your doing good."
"Likewise Lance, oh! and who is this?"
"Oh! Yes this is little Valerie. My daughter…"
Woah! What was Lance doing? He had gotten so carried away seeing a familiar face. Shiro was Keith psuedo brother the clearly still talked, and Shiro knew that Lance and Keith used to date and that they didn't exactly keep it PG-13. And there was also the fact that Valerie looked like the spitting image of Keith, besides her tan skin and pointed ears. Looking down at Val ij their arms, it didn't help that she was now pouting at Shiro. Every time Valerie met someone new she would pout at them it was something that reminded Lance of Keith, but this wasn't the time...
"Mama! Can we play?"
"Mama?" Shiro asked clearly missing something.
"Yup! She's my daughter" Turning to look at Valerie as they finished their sentence, "who needs to learn some manners, say hi missy."
"Hello, sir."
"What a well behaved girl, are you enjoying Daibazzal?"
"No...I miss Altea."
"Oh, honey-"
"Daibazzal's not that bad." Leaning down to be eye level with Val, Shiro explained, "I miss my home too, but looking and seeing what brings me joy here helps me when I feel homesick."
"It's not Altea" Valerie said as she huffed and crossed her arms.
"Ok...missy, go torment the wild life while I catch up with Shiro, k?"
Screaming as she went to play with frog-like looking creatures, Valerie was well out of ear shot as Lance turned back to Shiro.
"Sorry about that...I like to say she gets it from her fath-- er--uhm from Romelle." Nice safe Lance. Real nice.
"A daughter? Congratulations Lance. It's ok, I think we can all understand where she's coming from."
"Thanks. She was a surprise but a pleasant one."
"And now you're here... are you alone?"
"Oh no, I was sure you would have heard the galra majesty called on Altean royalty for a meeting. We think it's peace talks for a way to advance peace between the countries."
"Peace talks? This is the first I've heard of it. I'll have to look into this."
"Ever the busy worker bee." Lance teased.
"Yes, well someone had to be the responsible one..."
"Hey! We were responsible."
"Sure, I remember you and Keith would always be getting into trouble."
"Yea..." have you heard anything from him, Lance wants to ask but the question sits heavily on their tongue. They don't want to hear the no or yea but nothing concerning you response. They don't want confirmation that Keith hates them, that he's better off. Especially, not if Shiro put two and two together and realized Val is Keith's.
Shiro is hesitant to reply he's face betraying his usual stoic composure. The air is heavy with tension, clear they are questions left unasked.
"Well if there’s anything you need let me know. I’ve been here a while and still get lost but I can definitely point the way to some places."
A soft laugh escapes Lance's lips, "Thank you Shiro." Lance was ready to turn tail, get Val, and lick their wounds, but then they remembered last night. Turning to face Shiro, "Oh.. do you know where the infirmary is?"
ווווו
Consciousness came slowly. Keith opened his eyes and looked around the room. The infirmary? Huh, when did he get here?
Trying to recollect his thoughts he remembered. Remembered seeing Allura, Coran, Romelle and...Lance. Lance, they looked good. Looked more mature, it seemed he had grown into his princely role.
"You're up, that's good. I was starting to worry. Now let's get started on your physical."
"I'm fine, Ulaz."
"Yorak. Whose the doctor here?"
"You are..." Yorak said hesitantly.
"Exactly. Now shut up and let me do my job."
Ulaz checked his heart, eyes, ears, and reflexes. He wrote all his notes down on a pad, humming to himself as he did.
"Well, everything looks normal, a little dehydrated and some low vitamin levels, but you seem to be fine."
"Like I said I'm fine just...received some shocking news, is all."
"Well you were out of it until this morning, and the Altean that was with you seemed pretty frazzled, so I'm sorry for worrying. Now, I'm gonna set you up with an IV, you should be good to go afterwards..."
"Thanks, Ulaz." Turning away from the needle Yorak yissed as Ulaz inserted it. Staring down at his hands, Keith was in his head. Lance was here, here with their daughter, his daughter. They had a daughter, together. She'd have to be atleast 3 years old.Three years. Three years of his life he had no idea he had a daughter. Three years of missing first words, first steps, first laughs.
He couldn't even process this. A daughter. His daughter. The word felt too big, too unreal, like it was meant for someone else. Or for past Keith, not this Keith pretending to be Yorak. Three years ago Keith could've seen himself starting a family with Lance, but now...does he still love Lance? Does Lance still love him? Would Lance let him into his daughter's life? What about Daibazzal or Altea? What about his mother and their mission?
This was all to unreal.
But it is real. There’s a little girl out there with his blood, and his name? Does she even know who he is? Has she asked about him? Does she know he loves her, even if they just meet...
God, how could Lance keep this from me? Thought Keith. They had left things pretty rocky and then Keith had just left, and because he thought things would be better for Lance if he stayed out of Lance's life he never tried to reconcile.
And now what? What did he do with this information? Storm over there and demand answers? Walk into this little girl’s life like some stranger expecting to play Dad, now in the middle of a potential war?
What if she doesn’t even need me? What if I’ve already lost my chance? He wondered.
But he can’t just walk away. Not now. Not after knowing.
He has a daughter.
"Yorak! Relax your clenching your fist so hard your veins are popping." Ulaz said breaking him out of his spiraling thoughts.
Looking down at his hands, Keith was making a fist without even realizing it. He needed to get out of his head, he needed--
"Does this have to do with the news you received. Listen, I know with the Alteans here we all are a little on edge, but don't worry your not alone. There's--well let's just say that there's others. We all dream of peace--"
Cutting himself off Keith felt there was more he wanted to say.
Looking up to Ulaz and resting his hand on top of Ulaz's where he had grabbed Keith's forearm. He gave him a brief and gentle smile.
"Thank you, Ulaz."
Sighing, Ulaz didn't smile, he rarely ever did, "We're gonna be ok, Yorak."
Ulaz adjusted his IV bag once more before leaving Keith's to his thoughts. He closed his eyes, letting them run rampant once more.
~~~~~~~~~
"Now, we'll move on to Altean biology. Alteans are one of the vary few species that have Omegas and Alphas in addition to Betas.
Now, the Omegas are the birth givers and carers of our species. Alphas being those who can sire young. We started out like this and while many have different opinions as how we transitioned to have betas, who are still touch senstive and attracted to certain smells/pheromones, but share more similarities with male and female dynamics from different species and countries.
One of the most popular tales is a lover who wanted to give their all to their partner. However, they weren't able to have kids together. It is said one night they cried enough tears to fill a jar. Bringing this jar to the temple they offered it as a sacrifice to the stars. Many wondered what the stars would say, it wasn't gold or the highest riches they were simple tears. However, the stars know us best. They are there even in the darkest of moments. They valued the pure emotion more than others would think. That day the first Omega was created. That was eons ago...
Now Altea has more betas thsn Alphas or Omegas. However, they are born, rarely. An Altean will experience a Rut or Heat depending on what they will be presenting as. An Alpha and Omega have a stronger sense of smell and most commonly end up together. Any questions?"
Blushing furiously and staring mouth agape, Coran had no filter, all Lance had asked was why Alteans had dynamics while Earthus didn't. They hadn't expected Coran to sit them down, pipe in hand and delve into a crazy explanation.
Lance can't imagine being a bearer, it wasn't something they had really thought about. But, to think it was a wish of someone so long ago, granted by the stars. What an honor. In Altean culture it was a true honor to have a tale regarding stars. After all it was believed Altean marks were fallen stars that had decided to accompany you on your journey, life, so you would never truly be in the dark.
Sneaking away from Coran as he kept rambling on after realizing Lance wasn't gonna ask anymore questions. Lance began to recall when they had turned 11. An Omega, while rare he wasn't the only one in their family. Even now they weren't the only one Romelle was an Omega too. They remember the extreme discomfort of presenting. They hadn't really realized what it meant, but now would they want this? Would a lover want this? Would Keith want this? Want kids? Not that it had to be Keith, they were just 16 afterall.
Not that Lance didn't want it to be Keith, he was their best friend. They trusted eachother, well now more than before. But Keith had plans and aspirations and goals. He had shared these with Lance. And Lance was a prince in the middle of a War. They would never work...
They thought about what Keith would think. He was from Earthus, an earthing, as Coran called them. This wasn't part of their culture and Keith didn't seem like the kid type. Lance was so fixated on their thoughts that their feet were leading them. Lance ended where they always did when their thoughts wondered; outside Keith's room.
Opening the door out of habit more than anything. No introduction was needed as they sat by Keith's window seat.
"Lance? How'd the lecture go?" Keith said as he put down the book he was reading and approached Lance.
Lance in their own world continued to wonder what Keith would think, and if Keith would ever want a family.
Lance turns to Keith, "do you want a family?" He blurts out not really worried about the repercussions.
Keith's eyes widen at the question. He can see the pleading in Lance's eyes. The soft concern etched on their eyebrows. How Lance bites the corner of their lips.
Shrugging he responds, "Not sure, never really thought of it. I'm not a future thinking kind of guy."
"Oh." Looking down to hide their disappointment, Lance tries not to sound as kicked as they feel. "It's just that Coran was sharing something with me from the lecture, just some Altean things about the stars and stuff. So, it was on my mind..."
"What story? Can you share, you know how much I love Altean culture."
"Yea right," Lance rolls his eyes as he continues, "you're not getting any brownie points."
"Oh, come on. Sometimes Coran's stories are interesting."
"Ok fine..." So Lance does, they tell Keith about the lovers pain, about what other's thought, about how powerful the stars are, how no one thought it would work, how the stars took pity, how the first Omega was made... and most importantly how the stars have a plan and know what's best, to trust the stars.
Somehow during the story Keith laid down on the window seat with his head resting on Lance's lap. Lance runs their fingers through his hair. Keith closes his eyes as he paints the pictures in his mind. When Lance is finished there is silence for a while. They are basking in eachother's company.
"It sounds to me like whatever the stars have In mind for us, will happen. I'm ok following or waiting on the stars."
Laughing as they gently push Keith away, "how corny, but I kinda like it... whatever the stars have In mind."
"Yea..."
"Yea."
Looking into eachother's eyes. They could do this. They could wait and see...
"Tell me the one about the dragons!"
"Keeeith! You only use me for my storytelling---"
ווווו
Nervous was an understatement, Lance felt knots in their stomach, maybe they shouldn't do this. There was really no need, well...he did technically call him a murder and then he did faint after talking to him. Allura had eaten them alive and...Lance wasn't a bad person. They did worry, and poor Yorak who had been all but nice to them.
Deep in their thoughts Lance hadn't realized someone leaving the infirmary. Bumping into them Lance quickly looked up to apologize.
"I'm so sorry, sir. I was lost in thought."
"No worries, I'm Ulaz. I'm sure you're here to see Yorak, no need to worry he'll be alright."
"Mister Galra's awake?" Valerie asked clearly sensing they were leaving her out of the conversation. She remembered the Galra who fell to the ground for a nap, so she wasn't sure what the big fuss was. But turning to her mama she could sense their distress.
"Yes, little miss, his awake and well. Why don't you say hi?"
"Yes, I just wanted to check in on him. Right Val?" Hiking her up, they looked down at Val resting on their hip.
"Yea!"
"Very well, if anything is needed there is a patient call button on the side of his bed. Verpit Sa, and good day." Bowing as he finished his sentence. Ulaz continued on his way afterwards.
Walking into the room. Lance saw Yorak, or who they thought was Yorak, as he [⁰⁹⁹ mask, resting and propped up by pillows, he had an IV inserted into his forearm, the bag was half empty.
"Yorak?" Lance questioned as they took a step closer to the patient's bed.
"Prince Lanceal?!" Slowly as if he was just gaining consciousness, Keith moved to face the approaching Altean, shocked Keith couldn't believe that the objects of his thoughts were here...
"I can leave if you were, uhm--
"Mister Glara! Are you ok?" Valerie said as she wiggled in Lance's hold. "Momma was worried!"
Yorak chuckled, seeing Lance stare wide eyed at Val. At that moment Keith decided...he'd pretend.
"So, you were worried?" Keith teased.
Valerie sensing the joke or not was all to happy to answer, "Yes! Momma was sad, but you ok! Momma no more sad." Shaking her head Val huffed proud she had spelled it out.
Lance's face had turned a bright red, Altean markings glowing a bit as well.
"So, do you usually worry for people you label as murders."
"Oh gosh, I really said that huh? I'm sorry and I'm sorry for my daughter she has no filter, I am glad you are ok." Gaining composure Lance responded as he drew even closer to the bed.
Bowing, Yorak was surprised by the action, Lance continued, "I shouldn't have said that or even insinuated it, you have been very kind and it was very rude and childish of me to blame you for something you didn’t do."
Straightening out, Keith felt Lance was staring directly at his eye, his soul, even though he wore his mask, as they said, "I'll leave you to rest."
Keith wanted to pretend a little longer, he didn't want them to go...
"Wait! Could you hand me the plate there...they brought in food earlier but I wasn't hungry then...please." Yorak pleaded.
"Ok, sure" Lance replied with a hesitant yet grateful smile. Grateful Yorak gave them another chance.
Lance placed Val down on a chair next to Yorak, as they went to fetch the plate on the far side of the room.
Valerie stared up at Yorak, scrunching her nose and eyebrows, she didn't understand why he wore the mask. Wasn't he hurt and resting, sleeping couldn't have been comfortable with it on.
"Uhhh...does she always stare at people like this?" Yorak asked uncomfortable under her gaze.
Chuckling as Lance poured a glass of water, "Val, honey use your words."
"Why wearing mask?"
"My mask? Oh well..."
"It's part of his uniform, honey. It's like why Allura wears a crown."
"Cause she's a princess!" Wonder and understanding filled Val's eyes, "Mister Galra is a Princess!"
Almost spilling the tray with food and the glass with water Lance began to laugh.
"No honey, Yorak wears a mask because it's a part of his job just like a crown is for Allura."
"Ohhh, so no princess?"
Placing down the tray in front of Yorak, Lance replies in a apologetic tone, "guess not, dear."
"I can be a princess if you want?" Feeling bad for making Valerie pout he tried to make it up to her.
"Really?" Valerie questioned, hope filling her eyes.
"Uhhh, yes?" How hard could it be thought Yorak.
"Yay!"
"Oh you don't know what you just signed yourself up for."
Turning to Lance, "It can't be that bad, can it?"
"Let's just say Val here takes her princess tea parties very seriously--Valerie!"
While the adults were distracted Valerie saw her chance to strike. She was hungry and while Lance had tried to get her to eat she wasn't hungry then, but now she saw food she had never tried before. A variety of things in a purplish hue. Climbing from the chair onto the mattress, Valerie began to take from Yorak's plate.
"Valerie! You can't eat Yorak's food he needs it to regain his strength." Lance playfully flexed their muscles to emphasize the point.
With a mouth full Valerie looked down as she said, "sowwy"
"No it's ok. Really if you're hungry you should eat, sorry if it's not good, Daibazzal food isn't all that flavored, atleast compared to Earthus."
"You've been to Earthus?"
"Oh, yes! Some mission after the war, I tried there food here or there, nothing Daibazzal can compare to."
"I agree, Altea really can't nail
cheese."
"Chese." They say in unison, smiling at eachother when they realize what had happened.
"Yea, nothing like Earthus pizza."
"I agree, but being lactose intolerant does limit the joy, but it's worth it."
"Oh that does suck, when I was little I had a peanut allergy but I grew out of it. So I empathize with the pain."
Rolling his eyes, Yorak realized that Lance couldn't see his actions behind the mask.
Shrugging Yorak replied, "We all have our struggles."
"Yes, I guess we do." Lance's gaze roamed around the room as he spoke landing on the sword on the other far side of the room. A luxite sword...
Gulping, why would a Galra have a luxite weapon? Weren't they dangerous to Daibazzal blood? They had thought...
"Is that part of your uniform too?" Lance asked as they pointed to the blade.
"Oh yea, it's a traditional weapon for most hand to hand combat soldiers."
"What is it made of-- I've always been curious." Knowing the answer Lance was asking more to see if they could get information out of Yorak.
"Oh, luxite. It's a very powerful metal that Daibazzal exports. It senses. For example it's true power is based on the wielders."
"Oh, I had heard luxite had something to do with Galra blood...?"
"Well, yes it does activate the blade a certain way, galra blood or DNA, but I think the most powerful is the emotions of the wielder to the person they are fighting."
"Very interesting--umm, I never knew, but it makes sense why Daibazzal's economy depends on these important materials."
"Yea, maybe sometime, I can show you more, if you are still interested."
"That be great."
Nodding his head, Yorak tries to display he was glad Lance was so interested. Looking down he saw the Valerie had eaten all the grape like fruits from the plate, the only thing that was tasteful.
Noticing that Yorak was looking at his plate and Valerie, Lance truly felt bad for Yorak. "I'm sorry Yorak, she usually doesn't eat breakfast, we usually do brunch, you know breakfast and lunch, it's an Earthus thing."
"Brunch! Brunch! Can we have brunch momma?" Valerie asked excited her favorite meal of the day was being mentioned.
"Yes, honey, once we leave we'll have brunch."
"Brunch? That's strange, it should be second breakfast or just early lunch? Having a name for it seems pointless." Yorak said as he titled his head in confusion. Lance catching the gesture and felt a tug on his heart the gesture reminded him of a certain mullet headed ex-lover. Quickly they buried the thought, there was no use thinking about the past.
"No, mister Galra Brunch is brunch not lunch or brekkie!" Valerie tried her best to explain.
Still confused Yorak shrugged at Valerie.
Trying to keep the peace, Lance just said, "Don't worry honey, we'll work on it." For good measure Lance winked at her, Valerie double winking back.
Laughing at the gesture they stopped when someone cleared their throat.
"Introducing Princess Acxa of Daibazzal!" A foot man at the door announced to the room. There is a cloaked figure, who doesn't enter but doesn't leave he stands there as Acxa enters the room. Lance scoops up Valerie, holding her close. In turn Valerie grips their shirt, sensing the fear from Lance.
Yorak moves to salute Acxa, "Verpit sa."
"At ease, Yorak. Oh, prince Lance I didn't know you'd be here. I was sure Allura would want to talk to her second in line after our conversation..." A gentle glint in her eye betrayed he calm demeanor.
Lance sensing she meant more than her simple words said," Princess Acxa. Yes, I was just heading out. Good day to you all."
Blotting out of the room, as fast as they could why looking composed, Lance was long gone down the hall when Acxa turned to Yorak once more. He now sits up right at the corner of the bed, watching Lance leave and catching the fact that the hooded figure turns to look at Lance leave.
Acxa glances at him briefly before clasping her hands behind her back, "You’re recovering well. Good. I need you back in the field soon."
Nooding slightly Yorak answers, "It was nothing, Your Highness. Just a minor set back."
Acxa tilts her head, studying him, "Even something minor can slow a soldier down. And I need you sharp for what comes next."
Raising an eyebrow he questions, "What comes next?"
She pauses, for a second, but regains her composure, "The peace talks with Altea are progressing. We’ve found a way to bridge the gap between our people."
Yorak is careful with what he says next. He knows the general consensus is that Altea is as much to blame as Daibazzal, and while no one is innocent, besides the citizens, in war he knows Altea isn't entirely to blame. However, he plays it up for Acxa. Scoffing lightly and shaking his head, "Peace. With them. After everything they’ve done? After the wars, the blood spilled?"
Acxa answers quickly and frankly, "War has cost us just as much as it has cost them."
Yorak is caught of guard by this. Is she testing him? "Is that cost just… forgotten? What of our fallen? Our cities burned? What of the promises they broke?"
She looks a him, her gaze sharper than before, "You think I’ve forgotten? That I’ve forgiven?" She walks closer to him, hear voice lower as she says, "Peace is not about sentiment, Yorak. This is about securing Daibazzal's future. Peace is a weapon, just as much as war."
Yorak watches her carefully, "Then this peace is not what it seems."
Princess Acxa smirks at him, something he never expected her to do, "Nothing ever is."
Yorak jaw tightens, "What do you need from me?"
She responds, "you will earn their trust. Learn everything you can—their weaknesses, their secrets. And then, you will report back to me."
Yorak hesitates for only a moment, then nods, "As you command, Your Highness."
Acxa holds his gaze for a moment longer, as if measuring him, then turns on her heel and strides toward the door. Her foot man and the cloaked figure follow her down the hall.
Yorak calls out, "Verpit sa" as she exits, the room grows heavy with silence. Yorak remains still, fists clenching slightly at his sides. What a mess...
~~~~~~~~~
The IV had long since run out, pulling the needle out, Keith winced at the feeling. Grabbing is blade he left the infirmary, on the counter he left a thank you note for Ulaz. Walking to the bunks. All he could think about was his responsibilites and his heart. He wanted nothing more to run to Lance and Valerie, continue their conversation and tell Val that he would have as many princess tea parties, that he'd learn to love brunch, to apologize to Lance for leaving. To beg to be taken back, to plead that they run away together.
But then as easy as those thoughts came they left overshadowed by Acxa, and her words. He was going to be her spy that most mean she trusted him. This is what Krolia wanted and if he continued to gain the Princess's trust he might be able to stop any future plans of war, his mother seemed would happen..
"Yorak! There you are I was looking for you. We need to talk." Grabbing him by the arm Shiro drags him to one of the rooms in the palace. By the looks of it this one is a supply closet.
"Shiro what is it? Is everything ok?"
"Keith, what I'm about to tell you may shock you, I know it threw me for a whirl, maybe you should sit down..."
"Shiro, just tell me your freaking me the fuck out already!"
"Lance is here..."
Giving him time to process, Shiro continued after Keith kept quiet.
"Now, I know that might surprise you, but he is Altean royalty and they were summoned her for peace talks, but that's not all, they brought someone else along..."
"Shiro...I.."
"Wait! Let me finish, Keith I think you have a daughter..." Shiro prepared himself for either Keith to blow a fuse or faint. When that didn't happen, Shiro prompted, "Well..."
"Will you let me talk?"
Nodding his head yes, Keith continued.
"I know."
"What? Keith are you ok?!"
"Yes... I think? I don't know, I fainted when I first found out and then they visited me again in the infirmary, don't worry I'm fine, but a daughter, Shiro...I can't...and Lance their back...I."
Feeling arms embrace him, he hadn't realized he was crying. The tears slow to fall. "Shiro...I miss Lance, and I think I want my daughter in my life. Her name is Valerie and she's three and she pouts and, and...and she has my hair and my eyes, and she like princess tea parties and brunch. Shiro she's perfect!"
Woah, he was ranting. Why was he ranting...
"Hey, it's ok Keith. You're ok. I'm glad you're happy about this."
"I am. But what do I do?" Drawing back Keith looked and Shiro pleading for him to help.
"Keith, sometimes you just have to make a choice, it's not to late--"
"But, what if I ruin everything. The mission, and what if they don't love me anymore or need me...I"
"Keith you won't know if you don't try. I know it's scary but take it from me...sometimes you do something and you don't get a second chance with the people you love, this is your chance..."
Keith knew Shiro meant with Adam. To accept this job, as a diplomat, living in Daibazaal, he thought it was best to leave Adam. Adam had told him not to expect him to be waiting...
Keith didn't want that to happen with Lance, especially if they had a daughter together.
"I think I'm going to do it I'm gonna tell them..."
"I'm proud of you kid, really." Shiro said as he squeezed his shoulder.
Suddenly a flash of blue purplish light appeared and Keith and Shiro were teleported somewhere else in the castle.
Crossing her arms and tapping her foot, Krolia stood infront of them, a mask on her face. She was dressed like a Galran soldier.
"Good job, Kosmo. Yorak, I was looking for you. We think, we know Acxa's and Lotor's plan, we need to prepare."
"Krolia, nice to see you."
"Likewise Shiro and excuse me for heading right into business, but this is important. Yorak has Acxa talked to you, does she trust you? Has she told you anything?"
Right the mission came first, focused he answered, "Yes, We spoke. I seems she talked to Allura, and she wants me to spy on the Alteans to get close to them..."
"Really?"
"Yes, what do you know? Is Lance in danger?"
Pausing as she thought Keith asked again, "MOM! I need to know, Lance is still important to me...we have a daughter. I need to protect my family."
"Family?" Krolia questions.
"I have a daughter..."
"A daughter, I'm a grandmother?"
"Yes, I guess you are..."
"Oh Keith! That's exciting, whose the lucky partner."
Keith looks down, and Shiro flinches answering for him, "it's Lance."
"Keith? I... are you ok?"
"Please just tell me what's gonna happen. Will they be ok?" Keith asks, voice shaky.
A long pause, then with a sigh as she folds her arms. More for her own comfort then anything else, "I know what the plan for peace is."
Her expression remains unreadable as she continues, "The monarchs believe the best way to ensure lasting peace is through… family ties."
Anger evident in his tone he asks, "What do you mean?"
Krolia hesitates and before she can speak Shiro says putting things together, "A royal wedding, Keith."
Krolia nods at Shiros conclusion.
Keith blinks, stunned, "A— what?"
Her next words are softer, but firm, "Lotor plans to ask for an Altean hand in marriage."
The words hit him like a blow. His stomach tightens, his breath catching for a moment before he forces himself to respond, "And the Alteans agreed to this?"
Krolia shrugs slightly, watching him closely, "It seems they’re considering it."
His hands curl into fists at his sides, voice sharper now, "Who?"
Krolia shakes her head, "I don’t know. Not yet."
Keith swallows hard, mind racing, "It could be Lance?"
Quietly she asnwers, "Yes. It could be."
Keith shakes his head, and taking a step back as if trying to physically reject the idea, "No. No, there’s no way they would agree to that."
Krolia's voice is low and deliberate as she says, "We can't be sure, but...it seems Daibazzal wants control. They are trying to make sure neither side can turn on the other. It’s a political move. The monarchs believe that if there’s a family tie between the two sides, they can guarantee peace. They think a marriage will solidify the treaty, prevent future conflict." She pauses, her eyes hardening, "But they are wrong. You can’t bind two nations with a ring and a promise."
She speaks from experience. She remembers so clearly what her parents had thought, and seeing where everything turned out, they couldn't have been more wrong.
Keith then says voice shaking slightly, "This doesn’t make sense. Why now! They're finally back in my life... I--they can't."
Krolia's gaze softens briefly, but the worry in her eyes doesn’t fade, "I know, Keith. I know how you feel. Krolia remembers her feelings with Keith's and Shiro's father. They sense it in the air; the pain behind her words.
"That’s why you need to prepare yourself. If Lotor gets what he wants, it will change everything. You need to choose, Keith. What are you willing to sacrifice to stop this?"
Glancing back at her, pain in his eyes, "I… I don’t know. But I can’t lose them. Not like this."
Krolia gently places a hand on his shoulder, "Just remember, sometimes, the hardest battles aren’t the ones fought on the front lines." Her voice hardens again, the weight of her own decisions clear in her eyes. "But you must be prepared for the cost of fighting for what you want."
~~~~~~~~~
Earthus was his home. It had to be. It was all Keith had ever known. But after Krolia left, nothing felt the same. That and the fact his father had passed away.
One day, they were there. The next, they were gone. No goodbye, no explanation—just gone. And suddenly, everything felt too quiet. Too empty.
Shiro tried to fill the silence. He tried to be strong for both of them. But he had his own grief, his own way of dealing with things. They stopped talking as much. Maybe because they didn’t know how to anymore.
Pidge and Hunk were still there. At least, they were before until Keith began to pull away.
Pidge tried to get Keith to talk and Hunk brought him food. But he didn’t have the energy to pretend he was okay. Eventually, they stopped trying so hard, and Keith didn’t blame them.
For a while, he just existed. Alone.
Then they happened.
Lance.
They were Loud. Overly confident for someone who barely knew where they were. Lance talked way too much. Keith had noticed them walking among the palace talking to whoever would listen.
Keith thought he could ignore them. He did try to ignore them, but fate wouldn't let him.
Keith was sitting outside, minding his own business. When this kid with blue marks on their face and stars on their clothes tripped over a tree root and landed flat on their face right in front of Keith.
They groaned, pushed themselves up, and, as if this was the most natural introduction in the world, grinned and said, “Wow. Smooth move, huh? Bet that was super cool. You impressed?”
Keith just stared, asking, “And…who are you?”
“Lance,” they announced proudly, like that meant anything to Keith. “New to Earthus, from Altea, probably your new best friend. What about you? You always sit around looking this mysterious, or am I just special?”
“…You talk too much.”
“Yeah, people say that.”
He didn't ’t know why, but something about them—their ridiculous confidence and ability to bounce back like nothing even happened—made Keith want to laugh. He didn’t, not yet. But for the first time in a long time Keith wanted to laugh.
Lance didn’t leave him alone after that. Keith didn’t ask them to, and Lance didn’t ask him why he preferred to be alone, atleast not right way. They just were there. Annoying. Persistent. Always talking, always joking, always pulling Keith into whatever nonsense idea they had next.
Somehow, without Keith realizing, he started talking back, started opening up, and started laughing.
~~~~~~~~~
Coming back to the present Keith used to think all he ever wanted was to stop feeling alone.
And then he met Lance.
He found a friend.
He found a lover.
He found home.
Then he left, and things broke apart but there was a still a part of them out there…
Turning away from Krolia and Shiro, Keith begins to walk down the hall. This was all he ever wanted. This was his home, he belonged here. His history was here, his family...
He stops and turns to his mother and brother a hesitant smile on his lips.
"This is my home. I belong here, and I want to fight for it....surely this is all I've ever wanted...ever since I was little I wanted to know more about me being Galra. Now, I know and I couldn't be more proud..."
As his wants and responsibilities flow in his mind, his feet carry him to a nearby window.
Staring out the window he hears soft laughter, he knows that laughter. Valerie.
Romelle and Val are playing. Romelle holding her up like an airplane. Lance then chases them, they scoop up Valerie, and Keith dies a little bit inside. He wants nothing more to be there.
His mother approaches him, resting a hand on his shoulder, "This is your home. Atleast you got to meet them, and they're here, considering it a blessing. But for their protection you have to be Yorak. We have to complete our mission."
Shiro is hesitant, but he nods at Krolia words.
"Can you do this Yorak?"
Looking out the window once more and longing to be there, to be a part of their lives, he turns away from the window, he walks away slowly.
"I know what I must do, I will not fail. I will protect them."
Krolia and Shiro share a brief glance before turning to hug Yorak. Yorak's eyes glazed over, gentle tears fall. He let's himself mourn them now, because all he's ever wanted since he realized what it was, had just slipped through his fingers.
Notes:
Art Snip It's: https://www.deviantart.com/stash/01vayr4dj1v5
List of songs:
Fear of Water- SYML- I think this song can be for most the relationships in this story, but, and again most of the relationships won't be spelled out like Klance is but Allura and Romelle were thought of when I hear this song especially their scene in this chapter.
All I Ever Wanted- Prince of Egypt!
Love this movie and I've always wanted to write a piece inspired by this, but anyway. Keith is low key a Galran Prince, he has always wanted to know more about being Galra, and he felt like this is where he belongs and he does, but then he realizes that maybe he still wants Lance and now Valerie. And Krolia understands, she knows how hard it is but the only way his loved ones will truly be safe is by completing the mission.One last time- LP- Keith wanted one last time with Lance...
Wicked Game- Lusaint- just when Keith thinks he can have Lance, this wicked game won't let him
Black Friday- Tom Odell- when Lance and Keith first met it was a Friday. Keith thought that Friday morning was pretty deem, but by the end of the day, the day was the brightest it had been in a while.
Chapter 4: Chapter 3 - I Wish I Was The Moon
Summary:
“The moon really is beautiful, isn’t it?”
Lance was caught off guard, their balcony being private they felt unsafe at the voice at first, until they realized who it was. Letting out a sharp gasp, Lance turned around, then said, “Yorak you scared me…You’re like a silent spy I swear. Wait, what are you doing here?” Feeling a little exposed, Lance drew his robe up higher.
“Sorry, I was on patrol, on the part of the castle overlooking the wing, I saw you out here… and you looked like you could use some company.”
“Bold of you to assume…but you’re not wrong. Did you really scale down the wall, for little ol’ me?” Lance asked, looking up at the castle and presumably the path Yorak had to take.
“Oh, yea it was nothing, just a hope, skip… and a jump” Yorak began to whisper as Lance stared at him with wide, blue eyes.
“Sureeee, sure sure, and I’m supposed to believe you're not a spy.”
Sighing, Yorak then walked to the railing, turning around and sitting by the edge. He then said, “It just looked like you were thinking, and I didn’t want to bother but I also didn’t want to leave you alone.”
Notes:
Hello Hey! Finally back, Tax season didn't kill me... but it did tire me out as well as some other things. Like this chapter, gosh so hard to write. I'm not even sure I like it, you can skip the first flash black on this if you want it feels choppy and stale but I don't know what to do so... ughhhhh.
Anyway enjoy! As always songs that inspired this chapter and any art will be at the end notes!
Again this is a song fic. Here's the playlist: https://music.youtube.com/playlistlist=PLRLoV339oEc5tNBsqhbbPKtGKfjrd29-Y&si=PRCHhbkyFmiqqE08
Psst! - This chapter got away from me people wanting scenes that I did not approve of, so I had to make it fit, you'll see, I'm going to go back and adjust previous chapters, nothing major, but just to make sure things flow, but yea...
*edit* I added more to the chapter, it ends differently now please double check you have read the additional text, thx!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Preparations for the wedding had begun. Lance couldn't believe it when Allura had told them that Lotor was going to ask for her hand in marriage, they had fully glitched out. Lance wanted to scream. It wasn't fair but they didn't voice their concerns as Lance couldn't imagine how Allura felt. Keeping their emotions at bay, Lance just held her, a comforting gesture but over all worthless. Lance knew Allura didn't deserve this and some part of him deep down was telling them that it was their fault.
If only they had been able to kill Zarkon. Altea, might have had more ground to stand on. Maybe, in a twisted way, Daibazzal would have had to gain Altea's trust... maybe Altea would have gained control of Daibazzal.
Maybe Allura wouldn't have to marry Lotor...
It was Lance's fault.
When Allura had told Lance, she had asked to be left alone so she could prepare. Lance had gone with Valerie to find Romelle.
When they did find them, Romelle was wiping away tears. Lance felt for them. Nothing was ever spelled out but it never needed to be. Allura and Romelle cared for each other. They were more than just friends who bonded after a shared traumatic experience.
However, Romelle didn't share their feelings with Lance. Instead, they put on a brave face and began to play with Valerie.
It's been 2 days since then. Since Coran had called them to get ready for what would be the awkward dinner where Lotor asked for Allura's hand.
Two days since Lance had to scold Valerie for asking, "why is auntie Allura marrying him?" When what Lance really wanted to do was tell their daughter. "I don't know sweetie, but Daibazzal has always been pretty sleazy and keen on playing tricks."
Two days, since Romelle had bent her spoon, marks glowing as Lotor asked Allura to marry him from across the table, like the faux romantic he was.
Two days since the Alteans had taken a brief second to compose themselves before congratulating the couple.
The news had spread like wildfire.
Back in Altea as well as in Daibazzal, there were people who were divided. But most were excited. The Alteans had begun preparations, they believed the wedding should be held in Altea. Since the logistics weren't figured out, where the wedding would be was up in the air.
Lance was now facetiming Pidge and Hunk on the holopad he had kept since his time on Earthus. They had just filled them in on the happenings at Daibazzal and to unofficially invite them to visit, and maybe act as a barrier in between the festivities.
"Yeah, he looks like Legolas, but purple, from that one movie?"
"Movie? Please, LOTR is a cinematic masterpiece."
"Sure… maybe we can watch it when you guys come over?” Lance smiles from ear to ear looking at the screen with a pleading face.
Ok! Ok.. we’ll go. We have to check in on Shiro anyway” Pidge didn’t miss how Lance tensed at the mention at Shiro, “I’ll ask Matt if he can come too, no promises though, Earthus and Daibazaal communications are on thin ice… as it is.”
“Yea..yea. it's just a real mess, I know."
Sensing the mood quickly souring Pidge tried to lighten it, "Too bad you're not here in person, Hunk's making cinnamon buns, right Hunk!" Pidge said, raising her eyebrows and then turning the camera to Hunk. He had flour all over his hair and apron.
"Lance! Hey! I can save you some if you want?"
"Yes--"
"No way, Hunk! These are for me!"
"You fiend."
The scurrying of little feet draw their attention, as little Val makes her way into Lance’s shared part of the rooms.
"Momma, momma! Can I hold the holo-pad?" She asks as she rubs the sleep out of her eyes.
"Yes, dear. Say hi to auntie Pidge and uncle Hunk."
Lance then passes the device to Valerie, who walks away with it and sits on one of the sofas in the room.
"Hi!"
"My little minion! How are you?"
"Val! Being good for your mama?"
"Yea, good." Val answers distractedly as she's not paying attention to her aunt and uncle instead she's busy playing on the holopad.
"She's addicted to that thing. I fully blame you Pidge."
"Hey! It's not my fault, besides she's gonna be a tech nerd one day. Right, Val?"
-silence-
"Tough crowd, huh Pidge?" Hunk asked.
"Sorry Pidge, like I said addicted." "Val, hand over the holo-pad, you know you're supposed to have manners."
"Nuh uh! I wanna play!" Making her big escape Valerie ran to hide from Lance.
Pidge's voice coming from the holo-pad as Valerie made her escape, "that's right Val! Fight the power!" Egging her on, Valerie laughed as she ran.
"Val! Pidge, how are you an even worse influence?" Sighing as Lance laid out the outfit they were planning to wear, they would now have to go find Valerie.
A knock at the door interpreted their plan to corral their daughter. Making their way to the door. The wind was knocked out of them as Kosmo, the space wolf, jumped up on top of them.
"Kosmo! It's good to see you too!--gosh you're heavy."
"Oops. Sorry Lance, I saw him waiting outside by your door and felt bad. I didn't know he would attack like that."
Chuckling Romelle gave their hand to help Lance up.
"Thanks. I don't know what it is. He seems to like me and especially Valerie."
To prove a point, Kosmo began sniffing around the room, looking for his number one fan.
"Valerie! You have a visitor!"
"Where is she?"
"Hiding from me, she stole my holo-pad..."
"Yea? She sounds like those I-Pad kids Pidge talks about." Romelle joked.
"Ughhh, don't say that."
"Hey, relax, you're still a good parent."
"Thanks..."
Laughing, Romelle then went to find Valerie with Kosmo hot on her heels.
Sighing, Lance moves to sit down by the edge of their bed. Thinking back to their childhood. They weren't this bad, right? While it hurt to think about their actual mother, it did bring feelings of nostalgia.
Altea before the War...
Lance's parents...
Their thoughts quickly shift to their mother and father. The war was long over, but these feelings came and went as they pleased. It’s strange how memory works, Lance doesn't remember much. Not clearly, anyway. Just flashes—like old film strips that flicker too fast, half-burned at the edges.
Their mother had a voice like... the flowing water of a river, or the gentle breeze. Something soft and comforting they could almost hear it when they closed their eyes.
Her voice would drop to a whisper when she got to the scary parts of her stories. She always told them like they were secrets between just the two of them. They remember the lamp she would bring out as she made shadow puppets, a wonky shape she called a dragon as she told her stories. It made it seem like her stories were real enough to touch.
She told the best stories. Allura’s mother would say her sister could make dragons feel real, make you believe the stars were listening. Lance remembers that—lying on the floor, looking up at her, her hands moving like they were casting spells. Her face blurs when they try to picture it, but the rhythm of her voice stays, the memory or lack thereof pulls at their heart strings.
Their father had this laugh—loud, rumbling, like a train coming through the living room. His jokes were awful- they can’t remember them now but Lance does remember their mother’s eyerolls… she always groaned like she hated them. But she didn’t…they didn’t. Not really. But no matter what they would laugh because he was laughing and that was enough.
They say trauma messes with the mind. That in a way of protection the brain will forget anything that causes it too much pain. Lance can’t remember most things of his biological parents, but they do remember something they wish they could forget. How that night, when they escaped to Earthus, they never got to say goodbye. Lance didn’t realize the last time their parents had hugged, sang to him, told him a story would truly be the last.
Sometimes Lance wonders if the memories are real or just stories their brian has formulated to feel true, but the ache is real. They didn’t get enough time. Not nearly. But Lance did get something. Just enough to know they loved them. Just enough to miss them forever. It was those same feelings that plagued them while they first arrived at Earthus. It was that feeling of family and loneliness that caused Coran and Allura to worry and in turn the King and Queen of Earthus.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Trying to balance on the short stone wall, in the garden, as they walked, Lance thought of it as a game. Which just went to show how bored they were. Shiro had taken Keith to the Shirogane Cabin in the forests for some kind of hunting tradition Earthus had this time of year. Well, it wasn’t only the Shirogane household, many of the nobles had gone to the east forest to stay for the season. It was tradition a right of passage as it had been explained to Lance. Call it what they wanted; it was just a guarantee that Lance would be alone and bored for the season.
Sure they had Allura, Coran, and Romelle, but unlike Lance who only really needed to learn the basics of royal life Coran spent most of his time training Allura, and like the good future diplomat they were Romelle stayed to listen or joined discussions to hear what was the news around town.
Jumping off the wall, Lance made his way to the edge of the Garden, where the big willow tree grew. Climbing up to its sturdy trunk, Lance couldn't help but smile. This was where he met Keith for the first time. He had been there pouting and Lance had followed. They later found out Keith enjoyed the location because if you climbed the willow tree you could look out into the village square.
The view wasn't prefect, the village square was still far, and you could barely make out people. But you could see them. Now, Lance sees some villagers dancing. Someone is spun around, while others clap along. It looks like fun, Lance thinks.
Lance hasn't been on Earthus long, maybe a couple of months. He knows one day they will be able to explore beyond castle walls, but for now it's safer to stay on castle grounds.
But it's also boring.
"Hey! Blue boy! What are you doing!"
"Princess Katie!?"
Climbing up the tree with impressive speed, Princess Katie adjusted her glasses as she turned to Lance. "It's Pidge, I've told you this..."
"Oh! Yea... I just thought it was more of a friend thing, like Keith can call you that."
"Pfftt we're friends though."
"Yea?"
"Yea, dude. You're cool."
"Thanks..."
"I'm serious, a cool approval from me is like when my mom knights someone."
"I believe you."
"So, what are you doing here all alone and sad?"
"Oh! I'm just thinking." Lance steals a glimpse to the village square once again and Pidge follows his gaze. Understanding dawns on her face as she follows Lance's gaze.
"Oohhhh! You want to sneak out?" Raising her eyebrows at Lance she gave him a quizzical look.
"What!? No.... ok, maybe..." Lance fidgeted with their hands. It would be nice to see the village, but they understood how important it was that they stayed behind the castle walls...
Locked away...
Trapped...
Alone...
"Ok...so what if we do--no, no we couldn't--- but it would be nice..."
"Oh come on, I know how to sneak out. It's ok we won't go too far." Pidge tempted.
"Ok, fine. I'm in!"
"Yes! Ok we'll need to recruit Hunk!"
~~~~~~
"This is a terrible idea..." Hunk mumbled and the trio made their way through the garden. Midday there were a few guards patrolling making it easy to to avoid them.
"Hey! No backing out now, where almost there."
Climbing up the willow tree again, they had brought rope this time and would use it to climb down the other side of the wall. From there it would be a small trek to the village square. They would dawn their hoods to remain hidden, but they planned to join in the festivities.
"Ok, rope is lowered and secured, whose first down?"
"Don't look at me, I still think this is a terrible idea."
"I'll go."
"Alright Lance! Now, not to call you a guinea pig but you will be our test subject."
"Jeez, thanks for the vote of confidence..."
"You got it bud!"
Rolling their eyes, Lance grabs the rope with both hands, slowly while leaning his feet on the wall they make their descent. Once on the ground they pull the rope twice, signaling it's safe to come down.
Pidge and Hunk make their way down, with caution.
"It worked!"
"Don't act so surprised Hunk, it was my plan after all."
"Hey, it was more of a team effort!" Lance complained as they smiled to one another excited the escape had worked.
"Ok last one there is weblum!"
"Hey no fair you got a head start!"
"Guys, maybe we should stick together!"
Lance could barely hear them now, excited to be free. They hadn't even realized they were trapped. They had forgotten this feeling...Lance would do this all the time back in Altea. Lance's family didn't live in the castle back home, instead they lived on an estate. But, if you asked Lance, life was better out in the open air. They loved to run errands with their parents, going out to the town it was freeing-- Unlike the quiet, ordered world of the estate with its rules and expectations, the town pulsed with life—laughter spilling from taverns, merchants shouting over one another in the marketplace, and the constant movement of people. There was something thrilling about the chaos, something real.
There was also the smells of vendors selling their fresh foods, the clatter of feet on cobblestone, and the way street performers would capture a crowd with nothing but silks and a dance...
Reaching the village square first, Lance saw Earthus for what it was: the people...
It was different from Altea, that leaned on more magical and enchanting with its architectural look, Earthus was full of tech and it was full of all different species and kinds of people.
In the heart of the town, the village square thrummed with mechanical rhythm. Gears turned lazily on handmade machines, and the front of buildings. Many of the inventions would create steam that escaped from chimneys or exhaust pipes into the cyan blue sky. Unlit lamps lined the streets, casting a soft shadow over cobblestone paths.
At the center of the square stood a massive clock tower—an elegant monstrosity of spinning cogs and exposed pistons, ticking away with precision and pride. Below it, market stalls crafted from repurposed parts and riveted metal bustled with activity. Vendors in leather aprons sold hand-wound gadgets, polished monocles, and gear-driven toys, while a man played a comforting tune nearby. His instrument was unlike anything Lance had ever since a wooden base and strings over the top of it.
People moved with a certain flair—goggles pushed up into top hats, corsets paired with utility belts, boots clinking with brass buckles. Looking at their outfits, Lance was glad for the disguises, they would have definitely stood out before. Children darted between the crowds and stalls. There were a couple of messenger pigeons with tiny brass carriers perched on lampposts, waiting to be dispatched.
Lance was astounded, never had they seen such a village square. It wasn’t just a place of commerce—it was alive, a fusion of grit and grandeur, where every hiss of steam and turn of a gear was part of a larger, beautiful machine.
"Pretty cool, right?"
"Yea, it's amazing..." Lance said without hesitation.
"Come on! It looks cool but wait til you try the food. It's greasy and delicious!" Pidge announced proudly as she began to led the way to a vendor stall.
Hunk and Lance follow behind her amazed at what they see; looking around to make sure they don't miss anything. Hunk had been to the town before, after all he'd been here a year longer than the Alteans, but this was the first time he had been with friends and during the towns festivities.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
With Corndogs in hand, as dubbed by Pidge, they sat down by the curb of cobblestone streets. People watching and making polite conversation.
Hunk grinned around a mouth full of corndog.
"Okay, I don’t care if the world ends tomorrow. This corndog is the peak of civilization."
Lance taking a huge bite and taking his time to swallow, "Right?! I thought nothing could compare to food from home, but this… this is greasy perfection on a stick!"
Pidge more composed but still enjoying her corndog grins at her comrades. "I didn’t even know I liked corndogs. I thought they were just festival bait, but they're not bad."
"Well, I’ve been baited, and I regret nothing." Hunk agreed.
Sighing a smile crossed Lance's lips. They were so grateful to be out of the castle's walls. Things almost felt normal out here.
"Thank you." Lance said on a small mumble.
"For what bud?"
"Yea? Is it because of my genius plan to break free? Was studying with Coran really that bad?, "Pidge jokes.
"Hey! You don't know Coran's stories, trust me some can be a little much. Honestly, I’m just glad to be out of the castle."
Pidge and Hunk exchange glances understanding what Lance means.
Pidge breaks the silence, jumping up of the curb. "Alright, I’ve got Festival Energy. Let’s go check out the other stalls."
Hunk following suit, "Yes! I want to see all Earthus has to offer.”
Lance, who is still sitting, stares up at the others and decides, "I’m good right here. Me and this corndog are having a moment."
"Ok, just if someone tries to sit here, growl at them." Pidge jokes.
"Pidge, I’ve been waiting my whole life to do exactly that." The chuckle that escapes after speaking betrays them.
Pidge and Hunk scamper off, laughing as they disappear into the crowd. Lance remains seated on the curb, legs outstretched, munching quietly.
As Lance surveys the crowd they see parents with there kids, showing them around the city and displays, older teens enjoying the day, the occasional guard, street performers, however what catches their eye is something else. A group of kids running to a stall, stuffing something into their pack and then making a run for it. One of them drops something.
Intrigued Lance heads over to pick it up. It is something they have never seen before, looking down it seems like a crumpled piece of paper. But, at closer inspection it turns out the paper is folded to resemble a bird.
Picking it up nothing seems abnormal about it, however when Lance puts it in their palm to inspect the small paper bird comes to life. It flutters around them, whistling a sweet soft tune. After a few seconds it stops, falling once more at their feet. Lance thinks this must be valuable, picks it up and tries to follow the group as best they can.
~~~~~~~
Lance stepped cautiously onto the dusty trail that wound out from the town square and into the shadowed thicket beyond. The last fingers of sunlight stretched long and gold through the trees, filtering through a canopy of trees. Leaves rustled gently overhead, their edges touched with the burnished orange of late afternoon.
Behind them, the murmur of the town had faded—no more chatter of street vendors or clatter of wagon wheels. Ahead, the woods breathed a slower rhythm. A bird flew overhead landing on a branch above. The air smelled of moss and dry bark, cool and earthy, thick with the quiet hush of trees listening.
On either side of the narrow, overgrown path, trunks stood like sentinels, casting shadows that swayed with the breeze. Twigs snapped beneath each step. A distant creek whispered over stones, barely audible through the chirring of insects and the occasional flutter of wings overhead.
Lance paused, eyes wide, letting the hush settle around them. As they continue down the path Lance hears voices, following them they find the group of kids from the town.
"Again, come on Marco you said you'd actually try today!" Said an older teen with shoulder length straight brown hair.
"Hey! I am trying!" Replied Marco.
"Veronica, come on go easy on him we all can't be kick butt soldiers like you." Another teen with curly brown short hair said from where it stood on the other side of the clearing.
"Yea, Roni! We all can't be like--- hey!"
Laughing, the boy, who the others called Marci, began chasing Veronica with his stick. As they moved further away, Lance began to follow, they couldn't describe it but they felt a connection with these kids.
"What are you doing?"
Caught off guard Lance quickly turned around to face the voice.
She seemed to be around their age, with tan skin and long wavy dark brown hair. She had both hands on her hips and she stared at him with a judgmental look on her face.
"Who are you? And what are you doing here, are you spying on us?"
"I'm not spying, I came to town with my friends, and I saw you all back in town and followed you out here...and I just wanted to return this, you dropped, I was gonna leave after I swear..."
"Take off your hood and look at me."
Lance obeyed and lifted his hood with shaking hands, fixing their posture they raised their head to make eye contact.
There was an audible gasp as she took in his face, they looked human except for the marks on their face that gave away their Altean heritage.
"Uhmm...guys!?!"
Running to Rachel, the other teens stood by her all staring at Lance. Staring at him they can't help but squirm, their eyes are wide with curiosity as one moves closer to them.
"Who are you?" Veronica asks, sidestepping past her siblings, almost as a mother hen, and making eye contact with Lance.
"Oh...I'm Lance...an Altean, but you could probably tell. I just wanted to return this." Lance holds out the little bird towards the teens.
"Thank you." Veronica hesitantly says she takes the bird, it starts to flutter around them whistling it's sweet tune.
Grinning Veronica asks, "You ever swordfight before?"
Lance's brows raise slightly, "Like... real sword fighting?"
"Stick-fighting. It’s like sword-fighting, but most of our swords are probably tree limbs." Louis clarifies.
Marco hands them a stick, sturdy branch, "Come on. You returned the treasure—now you have to defend it."
Lance smiles slightly and grabs hold of the stick. "Okay. But I’ve never done this kind of fighting before."
"We’ll go easy on you. For the first thirty seconds." Rachael jokes.
They spread out. Lance raises the stick awkwardly as Marco lunges toward him, grinning.
"En garde!" Marco yells as he lunges toward Lance.
Lance dodges instinctively—too fast—and his foot lands wrong on a twisted root. He tumbles sideways with a yelp.
"Ah—!" Lance grits through their teeth.
The others rush over. Lance clutches his ankle, face tight with pain.
"You okay?"
"I think I twisted it." Lance grits through pain
"That looked rough. You landed hard." Louis says.
"Let me see. Don't move too much." Veronica kneels beside him, gently pressing near their ankle. Lance winces.
"We should get you back to the farm. You can lean on me." Louis says, offering his hand.
They help Lance up, supporting him between Louis and Marco, and they start hobbling back toward the warm glow of the farmhouse porch, still chatting and cracking jokes.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Swinging on the porch, Lance found the scenery peaceful and quiet. For all the gears and churns that filled the town the Mcclain farm was simple.
The sound of the screen door opening was what drew Lance's attention away from the scenery.
"Need anything else mijo?"
"No, I'm ok Ms. Rosa--"
"Just Rosa is fine dear."
"I'm fine, Rosa. Really. Just admiring the view."
"Ah, yes. I too love the simple view, it makes you enjoy what you do have."
"Yea... and you've got something special. I miss my family..." The words felt heavy, they had barely let themselves feel the hurt of their loss but now on the quiet farm surrounded by a nice family who had taken care of them, Lance couldn't help but miss them and they felt robbed of what they could've have.
"Sweet boy, we're just people trying to get along with one another. I guess the war was kinder to us then most, but it is more than simple blood ties that unite us."
Moving to sit beside Lance, she gently guides their head to rest on her lap. Gently stroking Lance's head she says, "You know dear, I imagine your mama and pa would have been proud of you. You're a good boy."
Gently wiping away the tears that seemed to stream from Lance's face, she continued, "You haven’t lost them completely—your memories, your love, and all they gave you still live on in you. And even if home feels far away right now, you will find moments of peace that remind you of its warmth. Most of the time it's not the place, it's the people."
When gentle tears turned to heart wrenching sobs Rosa guided Lance into her arms and embraced them.
This poor boy, she thought, having to deal with this pain. She couldn't imagine her own children living through something like that. As a mother she felt as if she had a responsibility to them. When Lance hugged her back using her shoulder to cry on, she knew what she had to do.
~~~~~~~~~~
It wasn't long before a royal carriage came making its way down the dirt road.
The Mcclain kids were shocked, never had they seen a royal-- anything up close.
"Woah, look guys!" Marco pointed out.
Making an abrupt stop in front of the porch. Lance hadn't expected Queen Collen to come let alone be the first out of the carriage. Out of instinct Marco bowed, getting as low to the ground as he could.
"What a kind gentleman, but there is no need for bows. My name is Colleen, I believe you have a lost friend we are looking for."
At that instant Pidge squirmed her way out of the carriage behind her mother. Still dressed in their disguises, she made her way up the steps and to were Lance was sitting by Rosa.
"Lance! We were so worried. We didn't know where you had gone. I'm so sorry!" She wailed as she threw herself on top of him. Tears and snot and all.
"It's ok Pidge." Lance hugged her back, trying their best to reassure her.
"I shouldn't have ran off, and then I sprained my ankle, the Mcclains took me in and sent Mister Mcclain said he'd go let y'all know."
"You big jerk! I was so worried! Wait! You sprained your ankle!?"
"Yea...it's nothing serious. I promise."
Clearing her throat Queen Collen made her presence known once more. "Pidge, we should thank the Mcclains for taking good care of Lance, no?"
Standing up and dusting off her attire. She bowed, "Thank you."
"Don't mention it dear, my kids were partly to blame. It was so nice to have Lance with us."
"Ms. Mcclain--"
"Please, Rosa is fine."
"Rosa thank you so much for looking after our Lance as you can see Hunk and my daughter were very worried. We are grateful you kept them safe."
"Yes, Queen Collen. I simply was being a mother to someone who misses theirs. Perhaps we can talk inside privately?" Noticing the watchful eyes of the kids, she added, Jorge watch the kids please.
~~~~~~~~
What do you think they're talking about? asked Racheal.
“Probably about Lance,” Marco replied before thinking.
“Ow! Hey!” Marco yelps as Veronica hits him in the back of the head.
“Don't say it like that”, Racheal corrects him as she sticks out her tongue.
“Like what?-- oh, not in a bad way just…” Clarifies Marco..
When Veronica notices the change in Lance’s demeanor she sits by them offering comfort, “hey mom loved you and you got some good friends whatever it is it's gotta be good.”
“Yea! You’re probably right.” Lance offers.
“Ok, who wants to play keep away, Marco's it and Lance is safe base!”
“Hey!”
“Yea!”
It wasn't long before Collen and Rosa were calling everyone in for an impromptu dinner.
The sun had begun to set and after all that running around everyone was pretty much hungry.
It was around Lance's second serving of mashed potatoes that Rosa cleared her throat. Her and Colleen made eye contact, Rosa gave a brief nod and Colleen spoke, "Lance, how would you like to be part of the Mcclain household?
Whaa?
Yes this way you have a family that will look after you while you are out of the castle. Of course your friends can visit and you'll have your room there and spend most of your days at the castle...
"But everybody deserves their family..." Rosa added knowing Lance would understand what she meant.
"Yes!"
Lance is nervous and anxious but excited, finally a family to call their own siblings. The empty void feeling felt full somehow. Even though they had family in Allura, Romelle and Coran and friends in Keith, Shiro, Hunk, and Pidge, something about having the McClains as family struck their heart, and Lance's smile couldn't have been wider.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lance let out a sigh as they pulled the shirt over their head, finishing getting ready for the day. Just then the sound of paws and feet caught their attention. Kosmo and Val were turning the corner back into Lance's part of the room.
"There you are? Are you gonna be good now?" Lance chuckled as they scooped up Valerie.
"Yes! Auntie says we are gonna have breakfast."
"Yea?"
"Yes!"
"Ready Val?" Asked Romelle as she stepped into the room.
"Yes!" Lance was highly doubtful of that as they saw Valerie rocking her sleeping gown and slippers, with a comb stuck were she had tried to comb her hair.
Placing a hand on their hip, "are you sure dear?"
"Yes...."
"Honey, at least let me do your hair."
Valerie's eyes lit up, "braids!?"
"Yes honey, braids."
Taking their time Lance began to brush out Valerie's hair. It had grown long. Gently they entangled the comb and braided her hair. Once done they clipped her favorite animal clips into her braids. Romelle watches from the door frame they lean on as Lance finishes up Valerie's hair. Kosmo, who had taken residence on the carpet, yawned before teleporting away, most likely to the kitchens for food.
Valerie tries to stay still but grows restless as Lance fixes her braids.
"If you don’t sit still, I'm never going to finish dear."
Valerie cranes her neck backwards, sticking her tongue out, "I want to play!"
Romelle, from were she stands, laughs at her antics, "she’s your kid, alright."
"Hey! Don't you go giving me attitude to. One little diva is enough." They say sticking their tongue out at both of them.
"Not our fault you can't handle our charm."
"Yea!" Valerie adds for good measure.
At that Lance chuckles. Standing and smoothing out their clothes, eyes taking in a job well done. "Alright Val, you're done, go play for a second ok?"
"Ok!" She beams up at them.
Sighing Lance speaks more to themselves but they have been meaning to address it with Romelle, "I still can’t believe this is happening. Allura… marrying him."
Romelle leaning off the doorframe moves to stand closer to Lance, "Yeah. I figured you weren’t thrilled."
"Thrilled? No. I’m terrified. I don’t trust him. Or his sister. Their kingdom might say the war’s over, but I’ve seen the way they look at us. Like we’re something to tame. But you don't have to comfort me I know this can't be easy for you."
Romelle stays silent, yet pensive. Lance hadn't meant to pry at steadfast emotions, one's raw feelings, they know how they feel and like Romelle, Lance prefers to work through them then with others, or at least now they do. Looking down at Valerie, who is now playing with her toy on the floor, Lance continues, "I want my daughter to grow up with peace. But not peace built on lies. Or Allura's heartbreak."
"She’s not showing any of it. Not to us. Not to...m-me." Romelle answers in a whisper.
Resting a hand on Romelle's shoulder, Lance tries their best to comfort her, "That’s how she was raised. Smile through the fire. That doesn’t mean she’s not burning."
At that Romelle offers a small smile and a gentle nod of gratitude.
Turning to look once more at Valerie Lance moves to crouch down beside her, "Alright, little one. You’re going with aunty Romelle for breakfast. What are the rules?"
"No screaming, no throwing bread, and don’t tell aunty they look tired."
A small chuckle escapes Romelle, "Wow. You’ve taught her the basics of diplomacy already."
With a mischievous smirk and a playful expression Lance teases, "Thank you, truly. I’ll come find you both, once I finish here, okay?"
"Mama Rosa, right? Are you telling her the news?"
"Grandma!"
"Yes dear. I'm gonna call grandma. Let's see if she can visit us here."
Valerie nods her head excitedly.
"Alright, We’ll keep a seat warm." With a fake whisper to Valerie, Romelle continues, "and maybe cause some mild chaos."
"Mild chaos!!"
Lance watches as Romelle and Valerie leave their chambers, Valerie's small toy shaped like an Altean Yelmore following her where she pulls on the string.
~~~~
Lance stares at their holo pad, thumb hovering over the call button. They hesitate before they click and the holo pad starts to glow. It's to late when they realize they meant to voice call, not video, and had pressed the wrong button, as Rosa's face fills up the screen.
"Lance! Well look who finally decided to call their mother. Thought you had forgotten me, mijo." Rosa says with a bright smile.
Lance jumps a little, startled. Then, too fast, they paste on a smile.
"Ma! You know I could never forgot you.... It’s good to see you."
"Mhm." She says not convinced but she continues, "How are you, corazón? And don’t say "fine." How’s the visit going?"
"It’s... a lot. Formal. Cold. Too many walls and not enough sky." Lance says bluntly and does their best to change the subject."But enough about here. How’s everyone back home? The farm still standing?"
Chuckling Rosa replies, "Barely. Marco keeps trying to fix the fence and the goats keep testing his patience. Veronica busy being a guard- says she's due for a promotion. Rachel’s dating someone new. She thinks she's hiding it but I'm no fool. And Louis—finally brought the family over Sunday. The kids pulled the laundry off the line, but it was nice seeing them. Jorge... well, you know you're father."
Lance begins to soften at the listening about their family, it hasn't been long but they do miss them.
"And how’s my baby? How’s Valerie?"
Lance’s expression warms instantly, turning more unguarded and real.
"She’s perfect. Romelle’s watching her now—she’s made friends with a space wolf. I'm serious", Lance adds at their mother’s incredulous look.
She chuckles fondly, "Just like you were. All friends and no fear."
Her tone shifts slightly, quieter, "So... what is it, mi cielo? I can see it on your face."
Lance hesitates, but just spits it out, "Allura’s engaged. Although you probably knew that..."
"We heard. It's the talk of Altea, you know. How do you feel?"
"Honestly? If you had asked me before I would have said peace was better than revenge. That mercy meant a future. And now... Allura’s marrying Lotor. Not because she wants to. Because she has to. For peace. And I can’t help but feel like it’s my fault."
"No. Listen to me.You gave mercy. That’s not weakness—that’s strength. It’s heart. And if your cousin has to do this, it’s not because you failed. It’s because the world is still learning what peace costs. And sometimes it asks too much." Rosa says with such sincerity Lance has trouble believing anything but what she says.
There's a pause as Lance breathes in, slow and trembling. When they feel composed they ask, " I just... I feel so far from everything. And I don’t want to be alone here.
I was wondering if... maybe the family could come here. Visit. Just for a little while. Not for anything official. Just... to be near. To remind me I’m still me."
Rosa is already nodding before Lance finishes.
"You know I’ll have to talk to them. But if you need us, we’ll be there. We are not going to let you carry this alone."
"Thank you." Lance says with a gentle smile on their face.
"That’s what family’s for." Rosa says genuinely.
"Give dad a heads up. He’s about to see a royal city. And they probably don’t let you bring chickens." Lance jokes to lighten the mood.
"I’m not telling him that. I want to see the look on the guards’ faces when he tries."
They both laugh—soft, real. The kind that comes from love and shared history.
We love you, Lance. You and Valerie. We'll come. Soon.
Love you too. Tell everyone I said hi.
Always. And mijo, your parents would have been so proud of you. Don't forget that.
At that Rosa ends the call. As the screen fades to black, Lance lets themselves feel and maybe even forgive.
~~~~
"Breakfast! Breakfast!" Valerie chants as they walk.
They continue down the sun-dappled corridor, the suns morning rays signaling the warmth of the day. Morning bells ring in the distance as Romelle walks with Valerie, she giggles and clings to their hand. The sounds of the bustling castle staff and guards echo faintly nearby. Allura then turns a corner and freezes as she spots them.
She quickly tries to step back, unnoticed—but it’s too late.
A little louder than needed and with a sly smirk on their face Romelle says, "Well, look what the sunrise dragged in. Morning, princess."
Composing herself quickly, her voice even and regal, "Good morning. I didn’t expect to see you here, thought you'd be at breakfast already..."
"Were on our way." Romelle explains looking down at little Valerie. "Had to pick up my favorite little miss. Right, Valerie?" Romelle chuckles, ruffling the child’s hair.
Valerie waves excitedly at Allura dropping her toy as she runs to hug her. Allura offers a soft, almost wistful smile and kneels to return the embrace.
"Aunty Aura! We're getting breakfast and look yelmore!" Valerie says as she excitedly points to her wooden toy.
"Hello my dear, oh wow, very cool. Why don't you play while I talk with aunty Romelle ok?"
"Mhmm." Valerie nods her head as she let's her aunties talk.
Romelle raises their brow watching as Valerie goes to play with her wooden yelmore her gaze narrowing a silent questioning of Allura's actions.
The air grows heavier—not hostile, but tense, laced with things unsaid. Carefully Allura clears her throat, "You’ve been avoiding me." She states matter of factly.
Romelle shrugs as they explain, "Figured you had enough people telling you what you should be doing. Didn’t think my voice would matter anymore."
Allura looks down, guilt flickering across her face, then straightens again.
"Your voice always mattered. But—this isn’t easy."
Romelle speaks a little more serious now, eyes steady, "You’re marrying him. Maybe not today, but soon. And I’m supposed to act like that doesn’t change everything?"
Allura trying to explain, "It changes many things. But not everything."
There is a heavy pause and Allura wants nothing more than to grab Romelle's hand and try to let them see reason. Just as she's about to speak to answer Romelle, Valerie tugs on their sleeve and asks about breakfast.
Romelle sighs, distracted for a moment, she turns and looks down at Valerie, "Alright, alright, little miss let's get going."
Facing Allura once more Romelle offers one last invite, "We’re heading to the kitchens. You could join us—unless you have other plans--"
Romelle's implication makes her heart skip a beat. She wants nothing more then to join them. Allura half-smiles, as she speaks stumbling over her words, "I… I can’t. Not just yet. He—L--lotor—asked to speak with me this morning."
'Of course he did", their voice edges with bitterness, but softens quickly, "Then take this. Can’t have you showing up empty-handed."
Romelle pulls a half-wilted but still vibrant flower from their hair, where she had braided them in—deep pink, edges kissed with a darker purple. Holding it out for Allura, their fingers brush as Allura reaches for it. The world seems to still for a breath.
Quietly, almost as whisper as if her inner thoughts were being spoken out loud, Allura asks, "You kept this?"
"You gave it to me once, don’t tell me you don't remember? Before we left Altea said it was so I wouldn't forgot home, family...maybe you need it more than me..."
Allura looks down at the flower in her hands trembling ever so slightly. Her voice is almost too soft to hear, "home has… never meant so much."
A shared silence. The tension between them is sharp, aching, intimate. The kind that sits on the edge of a kiss neither dares to reach for.
"Ah, good morning, Romelle, Allura. Sleep well?" Lotor surprises them from where he appears behind Allura.
Ah! Good morning, Lotor, yes thank you."
"Morning." Romelle offers dryly.
"Allura, is now a good time to talk?" Lotor asks.
"Well..."
"It's ok, me and Val were just going to breakfast, we'll see you there, right?"
"Yes!" Allura said a little to loudly glad that Romelle wasn't writing her off completely. "I'll be there."
Romelle turned to leave but was hesitant, they still felt the lingering touch of Allura's fingers. Slowly they walked down the hall towards the kitchen.
A sigh escaped Allura as she watched Romelle leave. Lotor brought her back with the clearing of his throat.
"Ahem, Allura care to walk with me?"
Nodding Allura walks by Lotor, fingers tightening around the stem of the flower. She tucks it into her sleeve. Where it stays as she walks done the hall realizing she must speak to someone she no longer wishes to speak to.
Allura's heart still races and her mind still runs with things left unsaid.
"You looked lost in thought. I hope I’m not intruding." Lotor asks softly.
"Huh...oh, no! What did you need?"
As Allura turns to face Lotor, he glanced down at her, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear he asked, breath hot against Allura's cheek, "Are you ok...with all this?"
"Prince Lotor?" Allura questioned with a slight blush across her face at his intimate gesture.
"It's just, I know the crown can be heavy at times. But now we have each other. I'm here for you Allura... whatever pains you, I want you to know I am here."
"That is very sweet of you Lotor" Allura speaks eyes downcast, gently pulling away from were his hand lingers on her cheek. She knows Lotor isn't blind, but if he won't straight out ask about Romelle she will not bring it up instead she shifts her thoughts to her father and Altea's future.
"But, it is just as you say the crown is simply heavy. I...Acxa brought to light for me that my father was not all innocent in this as I had once believed... I'm just working that all in my head, and then also deciding to follow with my duty to make my people happy...there are some things we can never have."
Lotor moves closer to were were Allura had moved to stand by a window looking out into the distance. Grabbing her hand, he feels Allura stiffen in his hold but she does not pull away. "Allura, I know your pain. It seems our paths were marked for us before we were born. But, I do not wish for you to see me as an enemy. We can make the most of our situation. I am not unreasonable... here I have a gift for you."
"Oh Lotor you really didn't need to..." turning her hand in his hold he places something in her palm closing her hand to a fist he pushes it to her chest. "Please accept it as my promise to you."
"Promise?" Allura asks amused with a slight raise to her eyebrow.
"Yes, when Galra court their intended mate they give gifts, around the end of a courting when the pair are sure of each other they make a promise."
Allura looks down at her hand and sees a simple jewel in the form of the north star. The mineral is a dark color with swirls of blue and purple depending on the lighting. The chain is a simple gold with double loops of gold chain on either side of the star. It's pretty-- but it's nothing like a certain Juniper flower.
"It's beautiful Lotor...I have no words. Thank you." Quickly she moves to put it on. Lotor offers to help her and Allura accepts, later realizing how intimate the gesture is.
"It reminded me of you—I know how important stars are to Alteans. My promise is that even if we are forced, I will love you as if the stars have chosen us themselves. And my hope is you’ll wear it at our wedding." Lotor says with a gentle smile.
"Thank you." Is all Allura offers him.
There’s a pause. An unspoken tension lingers like mist. Lotor watches her reactions carefully.
"Do you ever wonder—what your life might’ve been, if duty didn’t sit on your shoulders like armor?"
"Every day. But wondering changes nothing. We do what must be done."
"Still… I see the way you look away, sometimes. As if there’s something behind your eyes—something you’ve buried."
He reaches out once more, brushing her hand lightly.
"I don’t pretend this union is fair. But it is good. For your kingdom. For mine. For peace. And I hope in time… maybe even for us."
Allura answers him quietly, eyes flickering to where their hands touch. "Then let us hope time is kind."
At that Lotor bows slightly, turns, and walks off. A cheerful, "enjoy breakfast" leaves his lips as he continues down the hall before turning the corner.
The sound of his boots fades into morning. Allura watches until he is out of sight. Holding onto her necklace, Allura keeps it on as a hope for the future. She then moves to hold the wilting flower in her hand, looking down at it, she wonders why things must fade.
Slowly with heavy feet she walks done the hall, she decides not to let her thoughts swirl or consume her, instead she's going to enjoy a nice breakfast.
~~~~~~
A tall, poised figure steps from behind a stone pillar where Lotor had just turned the corner watching as Allura walks further down the hall. Acxa, Lotor's half sister, shadows clinging to her like a second skin. Her arms are crossed, eyes sharp.
Tone neutral and court she addresses her brother, "You play the dutiful prince well."
Lotor continues down the hall, slower, and does not turn to face her, "I knew you were there."
"So, then you know what I’m going to ask."
Lotor turns then, Acxa unfolding her arms and walking closer to him. He stares at her well he answers a slight sigh in his voice for her question, "Yes. And the answer is still yes. The marriage is necessary."
"Even if her kingdom bleeds for it? Even if she does?" The words leave her mouth before she can think them through. For a few seconds she let's herself think of others and not just the empire.
"Acxa, her people will be better off under our guidance. They just don’t see it yet."
She jabs a finger at Lotor's chest, stepping forward, she let's her feelings speak, "You say that like we’re saviors, not conquerors. She believes in peace. She’s sacrificing her heart for it. Is that not enough?"
"Acxa enough! We have been over this we need this marriage, I will take over the throne as mother wanted... the Alteans will know the Galra way."
Acxa makes a fist, her hands shaking by her side, Lotor notices Acxa coming back to her senses, in a softer tone he continues.
"Sister, this is for the good of the empire. Remember what they took from us, we only have each other. Together we must stand. I promise this is best."
"Yes, of course Lotor. You know I am loyal to you. Galra will rule, you will be king. The Alteans will know defeat."
"Good. You are my blood, not my conscience. Stick to the plan. Keep an eye on her, soothe her fears. That’s all I ask."
"And what if her fears are right?" She whispers.
"Then it’s your job to bury them."
He disappears down the hallway, the echo of his final words heavy in the air.
"Oh and Acxa, distract that Kolivan rat, will you?"
Acxa now stands alone. She leans against the wall, looking up toward a beam of light dancing across the ceiling. Thinking she can't help but notice all this false unity, made on false promises.
Maybe if she ruled... there could be another way. One not soaked in deception. One where peace meant healing, not submission.
But that is not the Galra way, and if there is anything she learned as living as Lotor's shadow is that the Galra way is best.
~~~~~~~
Breakfast was a variety of heavy foods with meats, eggs, and vegetables. The cooks had made much food, as they were used to Galran heavy appetites, however like days prior what ever was left over would go to staff and guards, as they ate after the royals. Breakfast was light conversation, mainly listening to the cook staff. They had grown close to the Alteans asking about their culture and traditions. Salqe a female galra who was a cook’s assistant had taken a fascination to Altean cuisine.
“We were thinking of Juniberry desserts for the wedding. I'll try making some samples and you let me know which you prefer.” Salqe said, completely innocent and unaware of the heavy emotions surrounding the marriage.
Offering a polite smile Allura responded, “Of course Salqe. Thank you, I'm grateful for your help.”
“Of course Allura, it's not every day I get to help a princess of another kingdom.” Salqe replies as she makes her way back to the kitchens.
Before the Alteans can recover from the wedding conversation, a tall Galra with a strict demeanor to her, approaches them.
“Enjoying your stay I hope, your highnesses? My name is Dayak, here to make sure your stay in Daibazaal is as comfortable as possible.” Dayak introduces herself.
“Why yes, thank you, miss Dayak.” Coran answers.
“Daibazal is most wonderful.” Romelle responds as diplomatically as they can.
“Thank you, miss Dayak. I can speak for us all when I say it is an honor to be here.” Allura politely adds.
Before Lance can thank Dayak, Valerie speaks from where she seats on their lap.
“I miss home.” Valerie sulks.
Leaning down to be eye level with Valerie, Dayak address her, “Dear there are much things to do here. I’m sure if you give it a chance it won't be all bad. Daibazal is a great place. Verpit Sa!”
“Miss Dayak, Val didn't mean anything against Daibazzal. You most understand the transition has been tough on her; on all of us really.” Lance says in protection of their daughter.
“Mhmm, I'm sure…” Dayak says not wanting to start a discussion.
She clears her thoughts as she pulls out a scroll, a list of activities, Dayak begins reading what she had planned for the day from the scroll. As she continues the scroll begins to lengthen, widening the eyes of the Alteans.
“You see, Lotor has entrusted me with entertainment. Now dinner will be with the highnesses, but as you have come in our harvest season I figured it would be appropriate to have you all join in.” She says oblivious to the Alteans. “Now, if you are done with breakfast, follow me if you will.” Dayak says as she begins to exit the kitchens unaware of the Alteans eye rolls and hesitant faces.
~~~~~~
The palace gardens slowly gave way to rolling groves of violet-hued trees, their twisting branches heavy with fruit that shimmered with a dusky blue sheen. A sweet wind carried their scent—heady, earthy, and vaguely metallic.
"This," Dayak announced, sweeping an arm toward the orchard ahead, "is the Royal Harvest Ground. Our people have tended these groves for generations. The trees bloom only once every three seasons, and their fruit is considered a delicacy here in Daibazaal."
The Alteans take in the scene with expressions of genuine interest.
"The Galran pears," Dayak continued, her voice warm and practiced, "are quite popular here, though I must admit—” she began, a small smile touching her lips, “—they’re something of an acquired taste for outsiders—"
Eager and perhaps too polite to interrupt, the Alteans had already taken the fruit to try, from a nearby low-hanging branch. With a crisp snap of teeth, they bit in.
Their face betrays them before their manners could catch up.
A moment of stillness stretched as they chewed—slowly, carefully—eyes watering just enough to notice, jaw shifting slightly as if trying to decide whether to swallow or feign a thoughtful pause. Dayak says nothing, only watches them with a judgemental look. They decide to swallow the bitter fruit, but do not continue eating the fruit.
With a forced smile Allura states, “...Very unique,” voice slightly hoarse. “I can see why it’s beloved here.”
There is a chorus of mhm’s and nods that follow her words, and Dayak seems satisfied as she turns gracefully, leading them deeper into the orchard. “They say bitterness brings clarity of thought. Or at the very least,” she added dryly, “an appreciation for moderation.”
They begin to help gather fruit, its a mandame task but they spend the time talking and enjoying one another’s company. Eventually Dayak leaves to attend her other duties, and Salqe comes out to help and bring what she can to the kitchen. She is more than apologetic for Dayak’s attitude and for her non-existent warning of the fruit’s bitterness.
“I’m terribly sorry, she’s just very proud of her heritage, we were already told you may not like the fruit as many have found it’s taste unique. It was grown as food fro Galra that first grew on enemies territory. The fruit was uneatable to the enemy but brought nourishment to the Galran soldiers.”
“Please Salqe no harm done, you do not need to apologize.” Coran responds.
“Yes, it is Dayak who should apologize not you.” Romelle let’s her know.
‘Very, well I will take what I can but after you are done for the day, let us know we will bring the baskets down to the kitchen.”
“Nonsense, we can do so ourselves. It would be no trouble, really.”
“Thank you, your highnesses, it would be a great help.”
“Please join us, we enjoy your company Salqe.”
“Of course, I’d like that very much.”
As the rest of the group stay by the center of the orchard Lance and Valerie explore closer to the outskirts, not too far from the castle. There while Lance chases Valerie, who seems to think hide and seek has turned into a game of tag.
“Valerie, come on! It’s time to head back.” Lance yells while searching for Val.
“Mama! Mama!” Valerie responds loudly, which frightens Lance and they run as fast as they can to the sound.
“Valerie honey what’s wrong?!”
“Mama! Look, it’s mister Galra!”
Lance looks down at where Valrie is pointing. There on an open field stands Yorak, effortless, they think if they had to use one word to describe him. With a swing of his blade; effortless. His strikes although to the air seem like they all have a purpose. It's a dance Lance remembers. A dance of death. He barely wields a blade, their preferred weapon is a charged blaster, but the sword has always mesmerized them.
They remember when Keith first taught them, just like Yorak he was so sure of his steps of his thrusts, Lance wonders if all sword wielders are like that, maybe after years of practice.
Distracted, they hadn't realized Valerie wriggling out of their hold down to where Yorak was training. Only when Yorak caught the small girl did Lance realize their arms were empty.
Jogging down to the training grounds. Lance thanks Yorak and asks, “Do you usually train with your mask?”
“Yea, more out of habit then anything.”
"Yorak, Yorak, fruit! Valerie offers him one of the fruits they had just picked.
"Oh, Galran pears, sweet.”
Giggling Valerie expected Yorak to not like the fruit like the rest of the adults had, but to her surprise Yorak didn’t eat it, just thanked her.
Pouting up at him. Valerie asks, “not gonna eat?”
"Oh, I'm gonna save it. You see sometimes us soldiers don't get to eat this delicious fruit..."
"Really?" Lance asked, following it up by saying, "shouldn't you be treated well?"
"I'd agree but sometimes making sure your warriors have their fair share of fruit isn't that high when coming out of a war."
"Yes... far point."
"Mister? Where's Kosmo?"
"I'm not sure, tell you what", bending down to be eye level with Valerie, Yorak stared into her familiar eyes, "wanna help find him?"
"Yeah!"
"Ok. Hold your hand out, and close your eyes really tightly."
"Ok!"
Valerie did as she was told and once her eyes were closed, her face scrunching up as she did, Yorak looked up at Lance, putting a finger over, where Lance assumed his mouth was, Yorak was signaling them to be quiet. He then reached into his pocket a treat in hand. Holding it out in front of himself he then continued his instructions.
Lance rolling his eyes at the scene unfolding in front of him.
"Ok, now wiggle your fingers and your toes", giggling Valerie did as she was told. "Now... are your eyes closed?"
"Yes, yes!"
"Just making sure... it won't work--"
"Yorak!"
"Ok, ok now believe with all your heart, make him feel you, good. Now breathe in and out and say firmly 'Kosmo, I choose you.'"
"Kosmo, I choose you!"
As she said it a flash of blue and purple light appeared and Kosmo pounced on Keith trying his best to take the treat.
"Kosmo! It worked"
Having realized his favorite little girl was there all attention for Keith was lost as Kosmo began to lick Valerie.
Laughing as Keith got up to dust himself off, Lance couldn't believe what they had just witnessed.
"No way you just used a Pokémon reference to get Kosmo to come to you."
"I have no idea what you're referring to."
"Sure you don't...thank you."
Lance watched as Valerie began to play with Kosmo. A small smile on their lips as they saw her happiness. Yorak watching Lance following their line of sight.
"For what?"
"For making her laugh, for letting her be a kid in between this physiological war fare. She's just a kid yet I feel like a bad parent with everything going on it's nice to see her laugh."
"Lance you need to give yourself more credit, your doing a better job than you let yourself see." Yorak placed a comforting hand on Lance's shoulder, he squeezed lightly as he spoke. His words drew a soft smile and faint blush from Lance.
"Thank you."
Looking away, as Lance felt their cheeks grow to hot, they fanned themselves as they said, "so you usually practice by yourself in full uniform?"
"Gotta stay sharp and believe it or not the suit keeps me cool."
"Really? Does it prevent me from kicking your butt?"
"Prince Lanceal! Is that a challenge?"
"Maybe?"
"Hmmm, really?"
"Kosmo!"
"Valerie!"
Grabbing training wooden swords, Lance and Yorak now stood in opposite ends of the training grounds. Valerie and Kosmo sitting on the sidelines, and having decided they would cheer for whoever was winning.
"Go Mister Yorak and Mama!" Kosmo barking his approval.
Lance shifted their stance with cautious grace. They were a ranger by heart—swift, silent, deadly at a distance. Lance held the practice sword correctly, but not comfortably.
The hilt of Yorak's practice blade fit into his palm like an old friend. He wore the calm confidence of someone who’d crossed blades in more than just drills.
They bowed, a small nod of mutual respect, and the duel began.
Yorak advanced first, not aggressively, but testing. His strikes were smooth, measured, never full strength. The first few exchanges were textbook—Yorak pressed, Lance parried—but then they shifted tactics. Lance ducked and twisted, forcing Yorak to adjust. A feint to the left, and Lance nearly caught him off-guard with a slash to his ribs.
"Oof!" Valerie shouted, half standing. “Go mama!”
Yorak deflected just in time, backstepping with a grunt. He smiled despite himself.
He noticed Lance moved like a forest creature—quick to dodge, and footwork nimble—but their strikes were hesitant, and angles too wide.
"Focus" Yorak encouraged noticing Lance's slight struggle.
"Come on mama!" Valerie cheered from the sidelines.
Catching their breath, Lance then lunged, catching Yorak off guard for half a second. He stepped aside and spun, bringing the flat of his blade gently against their back with a thwack.
“Better,” he said. “You’re reading my footwork now.”
Valerie whooped, “Mama's gonna do it!”
They went again. This time, Lance used their speed—darting low, trying to come in under his guard. Yorak blocked, but Lance's foot slid out, sweeping his ankle. He caught himself, just barely, and gave a low laugh.
“You’re not bad.”
“I’m just improvising,” Lance replied, breath short but eyes bright.
Yorak then frowned, not in frustration, but in concentration. He couldn’t keep letting Lance dictate the pace. The next time they lunged, he sidestepped with precision and pivoted, catching their blade mid-swing and locking it down. He moved quick—too quick for them to retreat—and tapped their sternum with the tip of his blade.
“Point,” he said, breathing heavily.
Lance scowled, but gave a begrudging nod. “Lucky angle.”
They reset. This time Lance came at him hard. A sweeping strike nearly took Yorak’s knees, but he leapt back—barely. Their follow-up was wild, an arcing overhand meant to end it—but Yorak sidestepped again and caught Lance's sword with a practiced twist. They stumbled just slightly.
That was all he needed.
He closed the distance and, with one clean movement, disarmed them. Lance's blade dropped to the ground with a soft thud. His sword came to rest against their shoulder, gently.
“Match.”
There was a beat of silence.
Then—“Mister Yorak!” Valerie shouted, throwing her arms up. "That was amazing!”
Kosmo barked his approval as Valerie added, "He did it, he won!"
Lance sighed, pushing their sweaty fringe from their face.
“You’ve clearly got fans.”
Yorak offered them his hand.
“You nearly had me.”
Lance took it, Yorak pulling them up.
“Nearly’s not enough.”
“No,” he agreed, “but it scared me. That’s worth something. Besides, it was a friendly match not war."
And next time, maybe "nearly" would be enough.
Footsteps approached through the grass, the rest of the delegation appearing from between the trees, baskets of harvested fruit still in hand.
“Ah, there you are, "Coran called with a friendly tone.
Lance turns, smiling, as the group joins them. A few offered short nods or words of greeting to the Galran guard, who paused to return a curt nod of acknowledgment .
“Yorak, your highness, it is a pleasure t meet the whole party.” Yorak says as he stands tall once more.
“Ahh, Yorak. It is nice to meet you, our Valerie has taken a likely to your wolf I believe, and glad to see you are feeling better.” Allura says.
“Yes, much better.” Lance can’t see his face but from his voice it sounds as if Yorak is blushing or at the very least embarrassed.
“We’re heading back to the kitchens,” Romelle says, adjusting the basket in their arms. “Going to drop these off and freshen up before dinner.”
Lance gives a small, understanding nod. “Oh—yes, of course. Valerie, say bye to Kosmo and thank you to Yorak, it’s time to head back.”
Valerie was reluctant to say goodbye. She pats Kosmo one last time and calls him good boy, before turning to courtesy at Yorak thanking him.
Lance linger behind the group as they make their way. A final “Thank you,” said with quiet politeness. “For the demonstration.”
Yorak inclines his head slightly, saying nothing more.
With that, they rejoined the others, steps falling into rhythm as the group made their way back toward the castle’s distant spires, the scent of fruit and warm stone riding on the evening air.
The sound of voices fade as the group make their way up the slope toward the castle, their figures shrinking as they continue. Valerie gives one last wave before they disappear around a bend in the orchard path.
Yorak stands still a moment longer, his blade lowered at his side, the training post before him forgotten.
When he was certain they were out of sight, he reaches up and removes his mask. It comes away with a soft hiss of air, revealing sharp, sweat-damp features and eyes clouded with something far more turbulent than fatigue.
Keith looks down at his right hand.
It trembles—subtly, but undeniably. Fingers twitching in uneven spasms. With a quiet breath through his nose, he grips it with his other hand, steadying it, forcing stillness through sheer will.
A beat passes.
Then another.
Finally, composed again, he reattaches his mask. Kosmo by his side offering a Bark and then whining, clearly unhappy they left.
“I know boy. We’ve got it bad don’t we?”
Kosmo barks his agreement as he follows Yorak back to the castle.
~~~~~~
Acxa moves through the lesser western hall of the palace—quiet, less polished, nearly forgotten. A single portrait hangs near the end. A woman in armor and ink-black hair. Regal. Sad. Acxa's eyes rest on it, not for the first time.
She lingers, thinking about her mother. She had never met her and the kingdom barely mentions her besides the phrase ‘A great loss to the Empire’ all Acxa can think is how can someone that great not be here. And how can Acxa be expected to follow her footsteps if she was never around, if she had never met her. As she thinks she hears footsteps approaching behind her. They are heavy and deliberate and at that Acxa knows who it is and why they are there. She doesn’t turn around, not just yet.
Kolivan appears behind her, like he’s always known she would come here. He is patient and says nothing at first. Just stands there, arms crossed, gaze flicking briefly to the painting.
“She hated sitting for that.” He finally says breaking the silence. His voice is like gravel rubbed between old wood—rough, low, and worn from use. Acxa still doesn’t turn to him.
“No one talks about her.” She says, it's true the palace seems to have forgotten her existence.
Kolivan feels for her, he understands her pain, he had experienced it again and again on the battlefield.
“No one talks about ghosts. Doesn’t mean they’re not there.”
There's a pause. A long one. Before Kolivan says, “You look like her.”
Acxa can't help but laugh, “yes, but that doesn't make me like her.”
“Not always, but you're not far off.” Kolivan offers as he starts walking, and after a beat, she follows him out of the hall.
The royal stables are quiet as they usually are this time of day—only the low huffing of horses and the occasional snort. Kolivan picks up a coarse-bristled brush and starts grooming a gentle warhorse. Acxa stands by the tack wall, watching. Eventually, she joins him—taking a second brush. They work side by side, silent for a long while.
“You’ve been walking the palace like a ghost.” Kolivan says as they are halfway done grooming the Horse, Jolbi, Kolivan’s old warhorse.
“Better than being a shadow.” Acxa says, matter of factly.
“Shadows watch. Ghosts haunt.” And it’s true she’ll give him that. Kolivan has always been smart, smarter than most advisors, maybe it’s because he's gone through so much, Acxa thinks, but surely he can’t be aware. She watches as he brushes down the horse’s flank, slow and careful.
“You’re not haunting something, are you?” He’s a little more direct this time. Nothing new most Galra are, but with Kolivan it almost seems different, like he actually wants to know.
Acxa say quietly, “Maybe I am. Maybe I’m deciding whether it deserves to be haunted.”
At that Kolivan stops brushing. Looks at her, eyes sharp but unreadable. “You’re not your brother.” She’s thrown off by it at first. How can she not be? She was raised alongside Lotor. She’s a galra, she's royalty. Yet, she can’t help but feel absolutely raw, he sees right through her.
“No. But I serve him. And I can’t un-spill blood, as a princess I’m just as responsible.”
“You weren’t the one who spilled it. Not all of it, anyway.” Kolivan reminds her.
There’s a long pause, the air is thick with unsaid things. Acxa focuses too hard on the brush strokes.
“Did you ever think... maybe we’re just extending the war in prettier clothing?” She wonders aloud.
“Every day.”
“And?”
“Still sharpen my blade. Still hope I never have to use it.”
“So you believe there’s another way?” Acxa says hopefully.
Kolivan stares at her, eyebrow raised before he speaks, “I believe peace doesn’t come from choking the other side into silence. It comes when someone breaks the cycle. Not with a sword. But with something harder.”
“Like what?”
Kolivan thinks for a second, although Acxa is sure he already had an answer, as he says, “Grace.”
Acxa can’t help the chuckle that escapes her, both horse and Kolivan are shocked by the noise but compose themselves quickly, “You sure you're not a priest?”
“Priests talk too much. Not sure I meet that qualification.”
A faint smile twitches at the corner of Acxa’s mouth. She doesn’t look at him. And they continue working in silence.
“If you ever need to say something, you can ask. You know that, right?”
She doesn’t answer. Doesn’t need to. He knew she wouldn’t. He says no more.
They finish brushing the horse in silence. The kind of silence that means something.
As Acxa leaves the stable, she bids Kolivan good night. He nods as he watches her leave, positive for as much as he knows there is a lot more she has on her mind.
~~~~~~~
Back at their chambers, they found it warm, as the maids had started the fire in the corner of the room. A faint scent of sandalwood clung to the air, carried from the carved incense burner in the corner, though it did little to make the room feel like home, it did fill the room with a calm atmosphere.
Silken drapes in shades of red hung around the bed—an elevated platform of polished wood with a lattice headboard and soft rice-stuffed cushions in lieu of the feather pillows they were used to. The floor was cold beneath Lance’s bare feet, made of stone tiles worn smooth by time and footsteps, softened only by a wide rug embroidered with dragons. Everything was beautiful. Grand. Meant to impress. And yet… none of it was familiar. None of it was theirs.
Valerie’s small feet had stopped padding back and forth across the rug; now she curled against Lance’s chest, her breath hiccuping between soft sobs, as Lance laid with her in the unfamiliar bed.
“It’s okay,” Lance murmured, gently rocking her. “I’ve got you.”
She’d been a trooper all day, wide-eyed and delighted by the orchard,and castle grounds. She was on her best behaviour at dinner, even addressing Lotor by name and thanking him for Dayak’s tour. But now the day was catching up to her. She was tired, and this wasn’t home. The lights in the room, as in the halls of the castle, flickered with torchlight instead of the soft blue floating globes she knew. There were no juniberry flower fields outside the window. No glowing bugs drifting low to the earth. Just still stone, painted silk, and a kind of distance Lance couldn’t quite name.
Valerie whimpered again, pressing her cheek to Lance’s collarbone, fingers clinging tightly to the fabric of their tunic. Lance hummed low in their throat, brushing her hair back.
“I wanna go home,” she said, barely more than a whisper.
“I know, sweet pea. I know,” Lance said gently, rocking her back and forth. Their voice echoed just slightly off the high ceiling. “We will. Soon. I’m here.”
“Everything will be okay, You are not alone, you are right at home…” they sang softly, voice barely more than a whisper, worn with travel and emotion.
“…I’ll be the light in the hallway… I'll be the light when you can’t see…”
It was a silly little song, Lance had always sung to Valerie, when she was little. When Val had to move to her own room, Valerie would cry at not being with Lance. So, Lance would leave on the light on the hallway, as a reminder that as long as it was on Lance was in the room next to her’s and would be there for her.
Valerie’s breathing began to even out. Her tiny fists loosened. Lance stayed still a little longer, holding her until the weight of her body changed—heavier now, sleep-drenched and peaceful.
They tucked her under the silk blankets of the unfamiliar bed and kissed her brow. Her eyelashes fluttered once, then stilled.
Lance made their way to the washroom for a shower, the water pressure was hard. The knobs turned the wrong way. The soap didn’t smell like juniberries—it was sharp, musky, foreign. Lance scrubbed the day away, but the ache in their chest remained. It was one of those aches that clung, subtle but constant, like the pressure behind unshed tears.
They toweled off, wrapped their robe tight, and stepped outside onto the stone balcony. The midnight air was cooler than expected—crisp with distant rain and laced with the scent of smoke from the castle's kitchens far below.
The moon hung low, the start of the night. Somewhere out there, across the mountains and rivers, was home, Keith. For Lance Keith had been more of a home than Altea. Having Valerie made ALtea feel like home for the three years they lived there, yet, now with this homesick feeling in their chest it was Keith they were missing most of all.
Lance leaned on the railing, their hands still damp, their breath misting faintly in the night. Keith with his long black hair, Lance wondered if it had gotten any longer, would Keith have cut it or maybe braided it. There was this aching of knowing how they could have gone from forever to complete strangers. How was it that the image of Keith thy had in their mind would probably be outdated and wrong. What would happen once Valerie started asking for Keith, or for her father.
Lance was resigned they would tell her, and maybe explain Keith was on a mission that he wanted to be with her, but he couldn’t. It wasn’t a total lie; Lance knew Keith was on a mission and had a new post, and they were sure that Keith would want to be part of Valerie’s life. Lance just weaved these two truths together.
They missed him.
Not just the idea of him, or the could-have-beens. They missed his laugh in the mornings. The way he used to ease the pain away from Lance after long days. The way he always made space for silence without needing to fill it — how being near him made quiet moments feel safe.
Lance blinked up at the stars, blinking fast, trying to stop the tears from falling.
“I hope you’re looking at the same sky,” they whispered. “And thinking about us.”
Whenever one of them felt down they would lay near each other and listen to one another's heartbeat. Lance tries to remember the rhythm; they try to remember the warmth. But now they aren’t even sure if Keith is alive.
Sometimes Lance wondered what it would be like to be the moon. It mocks them up there viewing it all from above, knowing everything but saying nothing.
How does the moon look tonight. From the other side, on Earthus?
God I wish I knew, is it bold is it bright; looking down at you.
Oh I wish I was the moon. I wish I could disappear; I know I can't stay here without you.
How do the stars look tonight? They like daggers in your eyes.
They remind me of you and every shooting star kiss.
Oh I wish I was the moon.
Let this be more than just a dream; oh I wish I was the moon so I could be with you.
“The moon really is beautiful, isn’t it?”
Lance was caught off guard, their balcony being private they felt unsafe at the voice at first, until they realized who it was. Letting out a sharp gasp, Lance turned around, then said, “Yorak you scared me…You’re like a silent spy I swear. Wait, what are you doing here?” Feeling a little exposed, Lance drew his robe up higher.
“Sorry, I was on patrol, on the part of the castle overlooking the wing, I saw you out here… and you looked like you could use some company.”
“Bold of you to assume…but you’re not wrong. Did you really scale down the wall, for little ol’ me?” Lance asked, looking up at the castle and presumably the path Yorak had to take.
“Oh, yea it was nothing, just a hop, skip… and a jump” Yorak began to whisper as Lance stared at him with wide, blue eyes.
“Sureeee, sure sure, and I’m supposed to believe you're not a spy.”
Sighing, Yorak then walked to the railing, turning around and sitting by the edge. He then said, “It just looked like you were thinking and I didn’t want to bother but I also didn’t want to leave you alone.”
Following him Lance stood next to him, elbows on the railing looking up at Yorak, “Heh, worried about me…or worried about what I could do?”
“My assessed threat level for you isn’t that high.”
“Hey! I could do some serious damage!”
There were a couple of seconds where Lance and Yorak just stared at each other before dissolving into laughs.
Sighing as Lance composed themselves, they then said, “Yes, the moon is beautiful… I was just thinking how no matter where anyone is, we are all looking at the same moon.”
“Wow, deep…”
“Thanks, you are ever the conversationalist.”
“Well, I mean you're right the moons and stars and sun we all look at the same sky. It makes us feel connected, right?”
Lance stared up at Yorak, a small smile on their face. watching him look at the moons and star.
“Yeah…I have a friend who thought the same.” Lance explains.
“Well your friend was very observant” “Yea, and a bit of a romantic…” Lance interprets without noticing.
At that Yorak stops and stares at Lance, there’s this look in their eyes. Clearing his throat, Yorak continues, “guess if it’s a common idea the sky connects us more than I thought. Good night Lance. Yorak bows before he leaves, this time scaling the wall down.
“Good night!” Lance calls out at his descent.
Behind them, Valerie let out a soft sigh in her sleep. Lance turned at the sound. Funnily enough they don’t seem so homesick anymore, maybe Keith is looking at the Moon thinking the same things. Keith was a creature of habit. Making their way back inside the room Lance thought of their future, his and Valerie, maybe after the wedding they would try to find Keith, explain and beg for forgiveness, and finally be home.
~~~~~~
Night has settled over the palace like ash. The halls are too quiet—too polished. Candles flicker against cold stone. Acxa walks alone, the echo of her boots the only rhythm in a place filled with secrets. Her thoughts do not whisper. They scream.
She passes the portrait gallery, where all the old kings and queens look down in oil and gold-leaf, their eyes painted heavy with judgment. She doesn’t look at them. Not tonight. She has other nights, Galran soldiers, loyal and trustworthy, giving their all for the crown as she must as well.
A servant bows and starts to speak. She waves them off. Doesn’t hear what they say. Doesn’t care.
Her fists are clenched. Her heartbeat louder than it should be.
Acxa’s not sure if she ever stopped believing Lotor, but as things pile on she can’t help but wonder if this is what truly is best. She’s always been told it is. Always just told.
Is this the price of peace? Her silence, and lies. Does she want to watch from the sidelines; clapping politely?
She leans against the cold wall, chest heaving, mind running rampant. She presses her forehead to the stone and lets herself feel it all—rage, doubt, guilt, fear.
It rushes in like a storm tide. Raising her clenched fist she punches the stone feeling the pain start to blossom in her fists but she doesn't care, she continues.
The servant, having followed her after she passed him in the hall, begins to speak concern in his voice but she isn't paying attention. She can faintly hear his worry and feels when he guides her hand away from the wall.
The movement causes her to feel the pain more evidently. She turns to face him and growls, “Leave me be!” As she makes eye contact with him, his eyes are filled with fear. She narrows her stare, but when she sees the fear her heart sinks a little. Aren't these her people, shouldn't she be worried for them. They must have shown the same fear when they were at war with the Alteans. Even if she thought her brother was wrong, even if she thought this wouldn't lead to peace. Even if she had to lay low in the shadows. This would be best for Daibazaal.
Turning her face downcast to the wall. The same servant grabs her hand once more and calls out for someone, she doesn't really hear what he says; she lets him look over her knuckles. Slowly falling onto her knees; defeated.
Maybe Kolivan was right, she is nothing like her brother, she's a coward. She wishes she could be what her people needed to be the one they look to for guidance, but Lotor is smart and power hungry, he will bring them freedom.
There's no doubt in her mind she could rule better, or attempt for peace, true peace with the Alteans, but that's not what Daibazzal needs. As much as she hates to admit it, Daibazzal needs Lotor. She had hoped that the people would see her, too, as a leader and not just the second in line. Even if she can't be the one, maybe she could at least help make way for him, or help him achieve ‘peace’. And while the thought makes her heart ache, the pain like her bruised fist, she's resolved to help Lotor. Not for him and not because she trusts him but for her people, for Daibazaal.
She keys into her surroundings and realizes the servant had called a medic to help. She feels the bandages he had wrapped over her knuckles. Moving to face the medic, her eyes soften. “Thank you” she says solemnly.
“Your welcome, your highness. Are you hurt anywhere else?” He asks her. His voice is calm and gentle. She remembers seeing him around the castle, but as she floated by as a ghost, a shadow, she can't recall his name.
“No, at least nowhere else you can fix.” She tells him her face is still crestfallen, and he takes notice of her pain.
“Come, we shall escort you to your room. It is late, you need your rest.”
“Thank you…”
“Ulaz, your highness.”
“Thank you, Ulaz.”
~~~~~~~~~~
No one tells you how you never truly get used to it, the guilt of war; you need to do what you need to do-- to stay alive.
"Again, again mama!" A young altean screeched to their mother.
"Again? You really like this one don't you?"
"Yes! The blue dragon is my favorite, she's funny and cool!"
"Well, you have to remember blue leads with emotions, she's drawn to special Alteans who trust their hearts completely."
"Like me?"
"Yes, Lance, like you."
"Yeah! Do you think she'll choose a rider again?"
"Well, they're always there when the stars sense we are in danger. They send the Dragons and together with their riders they bring back hope. But, if we treat each other with kindness the stars might not need to send the Dragons."
"Aww, but I wanted to be a Dragon rider."
"You already are Lance. Every time we choose to show love and kindness we are acting like real dragon riders. Remember that."
"Even if I'm scared?"
"Especially when you're scared. That's when we can truly be brave."
Lance looked up at their mother, determination on their small face. The older Altean smiled back and embraced her child. They were silent for a while simply enjoying one another's company. A feeling of comfort and warmth sits in their stomach. It lasts for all of a second before Lance feels the dread of the fear…
Lance remembers that feeling of fear and dread. They tried to be brave, like their mother believed they could. and for a second Lance could've sworn they saw it; the blue dragon high in the sky. Just a glimpse of it, but just as it showed itself it was gone. Disappearing into the blood red clouds.
They had to focus. An uneasiness sat in the bottom of their stomach. Their small army had taken its horses to the front lines of the battle. Allura's plan had replayed in the back of their mind since they left Earthus.
Lance was to distract Zarkon, while Allura fought Haggar. They could do this. They could end this. But those feelings of believing didn't stop the doubts and the uncertainties that crept into their mind. That and the uncertainty that remained on Earthus.
Their relationship with Keith...
"We're not far now!" Allura bellowed from in front of the group of Alteans and Earthus fighters.
"Coran, you and Romelle take the soldiers and lead them to the foot of the mountain. The goal is to keep the galra busy while Lance and I carry out the rest of the plan."
"Lance!"
Lance guided his horse to stand by Allura's as Coran and Romelle led the rest of the troops over the hill to the fight.
"Yes?"
"Are you ready? There's no going back now."
"I got your back Allura, we're not giving up."
"Good, glad to hear it!"
The trek up the mountain was a blur, all Lance remembers was the heat. Allura had Hagar where she wanted, and Lance could hear their heartbeat thumping as they faced Zarkon.
Lance laid on the ground panting, the gun they had used for most of the battle laid broken on the ground. They could hear the thumps of Zarkon approaching full rage in his screams. When they felt him right on top of them, Lance rolled over, away from Zarkon. Grabbing the blade hidden under his clothes he held it in front of them.
A warning, and Lance could see that it worked. Zarkon's eyes widened for a brief second before he furrowed his brow.
Lance blinked his eyes to regain composure, and to stop the dizziness that came over him. Suddenly the blade was thrown out of their hands. Landing with a clink a few paces away.
Zarkon approached him then his voice deep and menacing, "little Altean, did you really think you could stop me if Alfor couldn't."
"I..I."
"You, you what?" Zarkon grabbed him by the neck, lifting him up, causing Lance to choke.
"I will enjoy this, but not as much as I'll enjoy killing his heir!"
"No!" Lance croaked, trying to pry Zarkon's hand from around his neck.
No! He couldn't. Lance wouldn't let him. As he screamed his marks flashed and the clouds parted. Above them lighting rained down as a blue dragon, eyes glowing landed to the left of Zarkon. The dragon drew its flames aiming them at Zarkon...
The blast sent both Zarkon and Lance falling to the ground. Hitting stone everything turned black. When Lance came too, they saw the dragon staring at the luxite blade. Blinking away the aches in their body Lance crawled to the blade. The dragon watching, when Lance reached the blade, she huffed at them. Her breath cold enough to burn, she stared at them almost pleading before taking off.
Slowly Lance began to stand, blade in hand they swing it, making it comfortable in their hold. Lance hesitates for a second. Are they really a killer?
The voice chants within, "kill him!" "Kill him! He had shown no mercy, why should you now? End this, as is your right.”
Walking over to Zarkon's unconscious form, his breaths were ragged and shallow. Lifting the blade over their head Lance brought it down with all their strength. The blade made contact with the ground, creating a hard clank sound.
Where had Zarkon gone?
~~~~~~~
Lance sat on the cot in one of the medical tents. The nurses had bandaged some of the major cuts and bruises, they sat there picking at the dressings.
What had just happened...
They went to kill Zarkon, they had made the choice and then he was gone. Allura as well had been fighting Haggar and she had also disappeared in a flash of red and black. Without their leaders most of the Galra surrendered. Now, they were treating the injured and Lance was taken in all that had happened.
Just then they heard a soft jingle of a bell and an all too familiar and unwelcomed voice called out, "Oh little prince!~"
"So it's you, what do you what?"
"Zarkon is still breathing, why?" Narti asks, eyes wide and almost frightening.
"I don't know, I tried to kill him..."
"Tried?! You had orders to kill him!" She hissed.
"Like I said, I tried but Zarkon disappeared! I don't know why! It's all foggy all I remember was the anger...and--and a dragon..."
"Dragon? You saw a dragon--"
"Yes...a blue one. She saved me."
"She saved you? A blue dragon saved you?"
"Yes--"
Purring, Narti paced around Lance, glaring at them as they said, "Don't mention this to anyone...I'll be in touch soon."
"Hey, wait! What does your master know? What happened to Zarkon? What happens now."
"Enjoy your peace little prince, while it lasts..."
Peace? Could they really have peace? Could Altea begin to prosper once more? Even with Zarkon on the loose...
You're the reason why...
Why Altea will never know peace.
"Stop it!"
Stop it!
"STOP IT!" Lance wakes in a cold sweat, heavy breathes escape them. They scream into the silence of the night. Trying to calm themselves down, they place a hand to their heart and focus on breathing. Looking around the bed Val is still fast asleep, she moves to shift closer to Lance and snuggles up beside them.
Lance, shocked but still in a half sleep phase, lays back down and shifts to bring Val closer to them. As they lay there taking in Valerie's scrunched sleep face and watching her chest rise and fall with every inhale and exhale, Lance begins to remember that night. They had forgotten seeing the blue dragon, it had been long ago and Lance wasn't all that sure what they had seen was even real. There was a lot of blood loss and adrenaline, and little air.
Valerie shifts in her sleep once more causing Lance to smile. It's soft, but they couldn't be more glad it was a nightmare. Lance falls back to sleep watching Valerie until their eyes grow too heavy to keep open.
~~~~~~~~~~
As night began to pass throughout the castle and the moon begins to set once more, the echoes of shoes make their way down to the cellar. The kitchens are quiet and empty, grabbing a glass goblet and a wine bottle, Lotor continues further down in the cellar. Hidden behind a false wall lies a narrow spiral staircase, he makes his way down slowly, pouring himself a glass as he walks. At the bottom is a concealed room, a barrier spell, carved into the ground, it is lit by faint light, fire contained in floating lanterns. The walls are lined with scrolls, maps, and weapons in velvet-lined racks. Lotor sighs heavily as he sits and reclines on a black velvet chaise, he kicks up his boots on the wooden table. It is simple except for the ornate design of serpents slithering around the table. He takes a sip of the wine and rests the bottle on the table beside his kicked up feet.
A soft jingle of a bell echoes across the room as a black cat-like creature jumps on the table, she sits in front of Lotor and meows.
“Yes, yes I know…I’m late.” Lotor says as he rolls his eyes.
Then the cat, Natri, jumps up shape shifting into her galra-form, she gets down from the table and walks to lean by the wall hidden in shadows. As she does, two other Galra; Ezor and Zethrid enter the room. Ezor skips to stand by Lotor and Zethrid stands at attention by the table.
“Reporting for duty, boss! Ohhh, is that wine, can I have some?” Ezor says as she leans, invading Lotor's personal space with a wide grin on her face.
“Ezor let him be, we are here on business, tell him.” Zethrid says.
“Aww, you're no fun”, Ezor complains as she goes to sit on the table.
“Tell me what?” Lotor questions.
“Nothing just about Acxa, she had a fit, like went all crazy”, she says as she twirls her fingers by her ears, the universal sign for going mad.
“Really? Do tell me more.” Lotor says as he sits up fixing his posture.
“Oh, she’s cooled down now. But wow, you really poked the bear this time, boss.” Ezor explains.
“How dramatic was it?”
“Scale of one to meltdown? She punched a stone wall and screamed at one of the servant boys. A full fit. Kicking, snarling.”
“She split her knuckles. Didn’t seem to notice.” Zethrid adds.
“Alright, she's never been the best with her emotions. It's why she's not here, but did she speak to Allura or Kolivan?” Lotor asks.
“Uhhh. Zethrid?” Ezor asks as she turns to her comrade.
“Yea, we followed them from the castle grounds, and then they went to the stables. We couldn't hear what was said because the Kolivan would have sensed us.”
“Interesting, I'll have to find out about what–”
“Don't you think it would be easier to just let her know?” Ezor interrupts.
Lotor sends her a stare that causes her to shiver.
“Right. Stick to the plan.”
“Lance is still shaken. The dream took more than sleep. They were muttering even while walking. Fragments: blue dragon, blade, failure, Zarkon. They believe they saw something divine— but in the end they failed.” Narti says, her mouth does not move instead her voice is heard through the other's minds.
“Hmmm, guilt and hope. Always a volatile mix.” Lotor reasons out loud.
“I sense they are still hiding something… maybe even from themselves.” Narti adds.
“Interesting. Maybe mother knows how to grow their trust.”
“You're going to visit her?” Ezor asks.
“Of course. I expect you to deal with anything that comes up while I'm gone.”
“Of course, sir.” Zethrid replies as Ezor offers a salute. He can see there is something else she wants to tell him.
Making eye contact, “Ez?” He asks.
“Sir, the old tunnels under the southern wing, someone else knows they’re there. When I went to scope it out I found markings, like someone marking out a path, it seems they are looking for something.”
Lotor frowns slightly, saying, “That could be a problem.”
He takes a slow sip from his goblet, rises slowly, setting the goblet aside, now fully serious, he turns once more to Narti.
“Come Narti let's go find out about a dream. I'm sure the blue dragon complicates things.”
“Ooooh, dragons. Haven’t seen one of those since—never. Can I pet it if it shows up?” Ezor asks playfully.
“It would incinerate you.” Zethrid says matter of factly.
“So… maybe?” Ezor smirks.
“Focus, Ez. If a dragon truly appeared, everything changes. The Riders are a myth for a reason—but if they return, they’ll remake the board entirely. Our plans must move faster, and cleaner.” Lotor says sharply. “If the dragon did choose them... I want to know how far they’ll go to stay worthy of it.”
“You know your roles. Fade into the dark, and I’ll send word when I return.”
“With dragon gossip?” Ezor asks.
“If you’re good.” Lotor teases.
“I’m always good.” Ezor pouts.
“Yes, yes good night. Come Narti, mother hates waiting.”
As Narti and Lotor make their way up the stairs, back into a cellar, out of the kitchen and finally out of the castle. Narti, in her cat-like form, goes first, scouting ahead. Making their way to the stables. They are silent save for the slow breath of beasts and the rustle of straw. The guards along the outer wall didn’t glance their way.
Lotor stepped over the threshold with his usual, easy confidence. His cloak shifted in the low lantern light, lined with black and trimmed in indigo. A stable hand stirred, but one glance from Lotor, sharp as glass, froze him in place, and left from one word of the prince.
Behind him, Narti emerged from the shadows of the corridor, in her galra form. Without speaking, she moved into the open space beside the largest stall.
Lotor's warhorse snorted from within. The beast was massive: black as volcanic stone, red-eyed, armored even at rest. It stamped once, sensing its rider.
“Steady, boy,” Lotor murmured as he mounted with one smooth motion. He didn’t need reins—this horse had been bred to answer to thought and instinct.
Narti stepped into the moonless courtyard and changed.
Her body rippled, limbs lengthening, muscle thickening beneath her skin. Fur poured over her frame in velvet waves. Within seconds, she stood on all fours—a jaguar-like creature, built for silence and sudden violence.
They rode hard and without words until Daibazaal’s lowlands gave way to the foothills, and then the mountains. The path was barely a path at all—a jagged climb through twisting ridges and ancient trees, gnarled like grasping hands.
They reached the edge of a cliff and below, hidden beneath layers of rock and illusion, stood the crooked silhouette of a half-cottage, half-temple, built into the mountain’s ribs. The scent of lavender smoke, sharp and sour with undertones of bloodroot and burnt silver. As they enter the cottage, Haggar stands at the center, surrounded by a ring of runes glowing pale violet. She is draped in dark robes that shift as she moves. Her face is aged, marked and sharp. Her hand rests lightly over a basin of water, the surface now still, though it had just moments before reflected Lance’s nightmare.
Across the chamber, Lotor enters quietly. Regal and restrained as always, but there’s a tightness in his shoulders tonight, there always is when he visits Haggar. Narti follows behind, having shifted to her cat-like appearance. Her bell jingles as she makes her way to the altar in the center of the room. At the center lies Zarkon encased in a warded ring of black glass and runes, he lies on a stone altar. His chest rises shallowly. His skin is pale and weathered from war. A massive scar burns down his face from where the blue dragon’s magic struck.
“You watched their dream?” Lotor asks although he knows she has.
Haggar has moved to stand over Zarkon, one hand glowing with a pulsing spell that fades as Lotor begins to speak. She doesn’t turn. Instead she simply states, “You’re late.”
At that Narti moews. Lotor lets out an amused chuckle and says,”And yet always right on time.”
She turns now, to face Lotor, “You saw it too, didn’t you?”
“Yes. The blue dragon—brilliant entrance, very dramatic. Knocked dear old dad into dreamland.” He jokes awkwardly as he gestures toward Zarkon’s still body.
“That thing did something to him. It wasn’t just force or fire. There’s something in the magic—a lock. One I can’t undo.”
“You’ve broken fate before, undone time-knots and death curses. But this…?”
“It’s not just any dragon, Lotor. The blue one was a part of Voltron—once. Centuries ago. Its rider was a mercy-bringer. A war-ender. They left a trail of peace behind them like blood.”
She turns away from Zarkon’s body, cloak sweeping the floor behind her. Pacing she speaks, “If it’s chosen someone again—if it’s tied its soul to that Altean whelp—then that bond could be shielding Zarkon from me. Keeping him locked away.”
“You think Lance is... connected to it?” Lotor questions.
“Not yet. But dragons don’t make mistakes. It showed itself to them. That means something.” Haggar reasons.
“And here I thought I was the only one making bold declarations this week,” he jokes.
“Yes, your proposal. How is Alfor’s heir? I trust you are following the plan, and Acxa?”
“Of course, I won’t mess this up. She doesn’t know and my sister is under control I assure you.”
“Good, because if Lance is being chosen... if that dragon has returned for them, then Zarkons fate—mine, yours, this kingdom—will be up in the air and we can not risk that. Watch them. Listen. Let them believe they’re safe. If the bond with the dragon is growing, I need to know how deep it goes.” She looks back at Zarkon, saying solemnly, “And if it can be reversed.”
“Understood.” Lotor says as he turns to leave, but pauses in the doorway, one hand resting on the frame.
“We won't fail this time, mother. I'll be in touch.” Lotor speaks but Haggar doesn't pay any mind. Her mind is resolved, as it always had been after Zarkon fell into his coma.
Narti stays, hesitantly staring at Zarkon and then Haggar for a couple seconds longer. Haggar acknowledges her with a slight nod and at that she follows Lotor out of the cottage where the sun had begun to rise, as dawn settled.
As Lotor saddled up once more, Narti asked, “The tunnels? Were you not going to mention it to her?”
“I'll handle it, besides you saw Haggar she's focused on Zarkon, if I handle this on my own maybe she'll be able to bring him back, or–” Lotor cuts himself off, there's no use in thinking about the past. Haggar isn't Honerva, and she never would be. Honerva had disappeared after the war, after Zarkon was put into a coma and the only chance Lotor had of ever getting his family back was finally beating the Alteans and carrying out Haggar's plan.
"Or...we'll finally know peace."
Notes:
Songs for Chapter 3:
I wish I was the Moon - Ewan J- The ending scene, if also just like the idea of them looking at the same moon and Lance wondering gee gosh hope he is thinking the same thing as me, cause same
Light above the hallway- Pentatonix- It's the song Lance sings to Val, cause it's so cute ;-;
Above the Clouds of Pompeii- Bear's Den- The scene where Rosa takes in Lance, and her telling them their parents are proud. Man this song is something special, and I feel like it captured the feeling of the scene.
Brave Enough- LIndsey Sterling- Another Song for Allura and Romelle- Allura wants to be brave enough to love Romelle no matter what that means for the kingdom
Brutus- The Buttress- For Acxa scene's - The girl is breaking- there's more to the story you'll see...
Treehouse- Alex G- for the flashback vibes
For Lovers- Lamp- for the flashback vibes
L'amor dice ciao- Armando- for the flashback vibes
Brutus- the buttress; Acxa's realization also how she feels she should be next in line.
In the Room where you sleep- dead man's bones- not sure if you could tell but Narti sneaks into Lance's room to see their dream and set up the spell so Haggar can view it.
Art for Chapter 3: Art of Red and Blue Dragon: https://www.deviantart.com/stash/021480frwip7
Chapter 5: Chapter 4- Nothing's Gonna Hurt You Baby
Summary:
As Yorak and Lance grow closer in their friendship, Krolia reminds her son of the mission a head of them. As such, he tells Axca interesting information resulting in a journey to C'Rayrst. Where Lance learns more about Daibazzal and sees it has suffered the same as Altea, it further strengthens their resolve for peace, and having spent more time with Yorak their friednship grows and Lance can't help but feel safe.
Notes:
Another chapter done, I'm really excited to get the ball rolling and finishing this, it's taking me longer than expected it's been fun though.
There isn't art for this chapter, yet, I do plan to add a link to chapter 4 art in chapter 5, but there is more chapter 3 art:
https://www.deviantart.com/stash/01rkonrwhba2
Hope you enjoy!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Dawn had begun to creep in; the light began to stream into the room. Mornings in Daibazaal were colder than Lance had expected. The fire had long gone out, its ashes now sitting in the corner fireplace. Blinking slowly awake, Lance brought the blanket higher up around them. Shifting caused Valerie to wake. She blinked open her eyes staring at Lance when they offered her a soft smile.
“Mama.” Val said softly with a sleepy smile.
“Good morning honey, you can go back to sleep, there's still time before we have to wake up.”
“Mama, don't want sleep.” At that Valerie began to cry, soft tears and clear confusion on her face, she wasn't sure what she wanted.
“Hey, hey sweet pea, why don't we go outside and see the sunrise. What do you say?” Drying her tears as they spoke, Valerie nodded her head in agreement.
“Alright, let's go!”
When Lance's feet touched the cold floor they couldn't help but want to go back to bed. Quickly they grabbed a still sleepy, no matter what she said, Val. She cuddled up to their neck, as Lance padded to their closet, grabbing their robes and slippers, along with scarfs. Bundling up they then made their way to the gardens.
The light of dawn spilled softly over the stone walls of the castle, casting long shadows across the dew-kissed garden. Golden rays pierced the mist that clung gently to the hedgerows and sleeping flower beds. The air was still, cool, and laced with the scent of damp earth and blooming plants.
They took the path that lead to the central fountain whose water shimmered like liquid gold in the growing light. In Altea the birds would have stirred in the trees, their early songs echoing softly. But, in Daibazaal mornings seemed to be quiet.
Sitting by the edge of the fountain, Valerie began to collect flowers, saying they were for a flower crown. Lance watched her for a bit, her soft chuckles as the frog like creatures appeared once more.
Sighing they rested their head on their hands, now facing the sunrise. The sun had broken free from its confines in the sky. Coloring clouds and the sky itself in red, oranges and yellows. Lance couldn't help but feel peace. The nightmare still stuck around with its unwelcome feelings. They truly hoped it was the last, but it would most likely be the first of many.
As they sat there, Valerie brought them flowers they had to inspect to make sure they were ok for a flower crown. As a flash of blue appeared and with it a familiar friend.
“Kosmo!” Valerie screeched as he began to lick his hellos. Laughing, Kosmo's whole body wagged completely as Val hugged him. Laughing softly into their hands, Lance was grateful to Kosmo. “Easy boy, don't go suffocating her now.” At that Kosmo sat back, whining as he did, clearly not happy with the idea of suffocating Val.
“Awww, it's ok boy, just play gently, ok?” Kosmo woofed at that. “Kosmo, you want a flower crown too, right?” Woofing again Kosmo was happy to play with Val.
“Mama, can we go find other flowers?”
“Sure dear, just stay where I can see you, ok?”
“Mmhmm.” At that Valerie ran off Kosmo hot on her trail.
“Lanceal?” Turning at the voice Lance knew who it was before they turned. Yorak stood by them, clad in his uniform, probably on patrol Lance thought.
“Yorak, what a surprise, thought you'd be asleep, didn't you have patrol last night?’
“Couldn't sleep, the gardens are calming, besides Kosmo has extra energy he needs to burn off.”
“Hope you don't mind, Valerie has dubbed him her assistant, they're making flower crowns.” Lance explained.
“Nah, Kosmo really enjoys spending time with her.” Yorak said watching the pair in the distance. Kosmo standing perfectly still as Val compared flowers against his fur.
The world is soft with early light. The wide, marble fountain trickles steadily behind as they sit on its edge, facing toward the slow spill of orange and pink melt into the sky like watercolors bleeding across paper.
Their shoulders don’t touch, but they’re close—close enough to share the chill of morning. They watch in silence. A comfortable one, at first.
Then it starts to stretch.
Yorak shifts slightly, folding his arms and Lance taps their thumb against their knee.
The frog like creatures begin to croak nearby. Neither speaks.
Another beat goes by.
The longer they both looked out into the distance the more the silence feels awkward. Feeling as they should say something Lance asked as Yorak spoke.
“So, would you ever visit Earthus again?” Lance asked as Yorak asked, “Did you sleep at all last night?”
They both pause, startled, then chuckle awkwardly.
“Sorry—go ahead.”
“No, no—you first.” Yorak insists.
Lance smiles gently, “I just meant... if you would ever go explore. I'm sure Daibazzal is your home, but the world is so big and Earthus has a lot of cool places. Oh, a guess after the wedding you could come to Altea, I'm sure there will be Galra and Alteans traveling back and forth.” They ramble on.
Yorak faces Lance, and they can't help but wonder how the sun would catch in the other's eyes. Instead Lance sees the gentle flick of his ears and the swing of his tail. It rarely does that Lance thinks, he most be nervous, Lance concludes.
With a deep breath Yorak stares out into the horizon once more. “I– do think about, Earthus, I guess maybe Altea. In my dreams I don't really know the name of the place but everyday I come home to my loved ones.”
His response causes Lance's marks to glow. As if they were in a trance they add, “huh, home isn't the place it's the people. I'd have to agree with you.”
“Yeah?” Yorak ponders.
“Hmm huh, what? surprised I agree with you.”
“A little bit, don't forget I am Galra.” Yorak teases.
Rolling their eyes at him, Lance realized Yorak's tail started flicking back and forth, and for some reason they couldn't help but feel it wasn't because he was nervous.
“Haha, you're a real jokester. So, what were you going to ask?”
“Oh, it just looked like you didn't get any sleep last night, as if your thoughts kept you up?”
“They did. Is it that obvious? I haven't exactly kept up with my skin routine.
“Only a little. Your eyes looked tired, but you don't look unkempt, trust me I'm no stranger to long nights.”
Blushing lightly, Lance looks up at Yorak, “Please, how do I know if that's true, you get to hide your tiredness. But, yeah just a restless night” Lance doesn't continue for a while, they are silent yet Yorak knows they have something to say, “it was a nightmare.” Lance says as he fidgets with their hands.
“Oh, do you want to talk about it.” Yorak asks a little hesitantly. He isn't sure if Lance is comfortable with sharing, and for a brief second Yorak can't help but wonder if he would be as hesitant if he were Keith. However, Yorak is drawn back from his thoughts as Lance speaks.
“Oh, it was nothing really. Just noise, familiar faces and a feeling I can't shake…I guess it's mostly regret, something I wish I could take back…”
“Ahh. I have my fair share of regrets as well. There's an old belief most Galra live by though, it goes something like, “Regret nothing as it brought your present.” While things still haunt me, they did bring me were I'm currently at. And I don't know about you but enjoying the sunrise with good company isn't a bad place to be.”
Lance's marks glowed gently at Yorak's words, his ears flat against his head make Lance guess he was flustered as well. “Thanks Yorak, guess you're right you're not so bad.” Lance teased.
At that Yorak chuckles and it startles Lance, they have heard him laugh before but for some reason Lance can't help but feel proud that they had made Yorak laugh. Almost as if they always wanted to make him laugh.
Their eyes meet.
And the silence that follows feels different now.
“Mama! Look flower crowns!”
Turning there is a light blush and a soft glow of their marks as they move to face Valerie. She stands with two flower crowns in her hand and one with purple and red flowers on her head. Kosmo barks clearly trying to show off the one on his head with white and purple flowers.
“One for each!” Valerie says excitedly handing them over to Lance and Yorak. She hands one Lance one with blue, purple and white flowers. Yorak one with red, purple and white flowers. Placing their crown on their head, Lance asks Valerie, “How do I look?”
“Amazing Mama, right mister Yorak?” Valerie asks turning to Yorak, Kosmo barks at her question.
“Yes Val. Lance looks very nice.” with light laughter Yorak brings the crown to his head. “But I think mine looks best.”
“Hmmmm” Valerie says as she thinks it over, “no Kosmo is the best princess.” Valerie concludes and Kosmo barks his approval.
Shrugging his shoulders and hanging his head, Yorak looked defeated at her verdict. Resting a hand on his shoulder Lance offered their comfort, “it's alright Yorak, Kosmo does look best.” Lance said with a chuckle. “Guess it can't be helped, huh?” “Nope.”
Laughing, Valerie asked, “what's so funny, Kosmo is best princess.”
“Yes, yes he is honey. Why don't we get ready for breakfast?”
“Breakfast!” Valerie says excitedly as she and Kosmo start walking back to the castle.
Sighing Lance stands and stretches, hands over his head, “Well guess I'll have to catch up.”
“I'll walk you, I'll probably have to drag Kosmo away from her anyway.” Yorak says as he stands as well.
“Thanks, Yorak.”
They walk side by side, they can see the pair of trouble markers ahead of them, but they seem to be more focused on one another. Yorak's hand tenses from where it flexes by his side. Lance can't help but feel like they should hold it. Which startles them, take his hand?, they must be going crazy. However, walking this close to someone they can't help but draw the similarities to walking next to Keith. With him it was like second nature, grabbing his head, fingers intertwined. Even when they were angry with one another they would at least hold pinkies. A comforting gesture for them both.
It must be, Lance concludes, the odd parallel of walking next to Yorak and when they used to walk by Keith.
For his part, Yorak can't help but cast the occasional glance towards Lance. They are slightly behind him staring down. Maybe they are frightened, Yorak thinks, and he can't help but feel sad at the thought. He felt as if he earned Lance's trust, yet maybe Lance would never trust a Galra. Or maybe he couldn't expect to be treated as Keith when he so clearly wasn't.
As they walk Yorak notices James coming up to them to tell him something important he thinks.
“Yorak there you are, Diplomat Shiro of Earthus is looking for you and you weren’t at the bunks. You know your patrol ended at dawn, right?”
“James. Thank you for getting me, I'll go see what Shiro needs. Just…uhhh…one second.”
“Prince Lanceal, I trust you can make it back, James can escort you if you wish. Please watch Kosmo for me, I'll fetch him after.” Yorak says with a slight bow towards Lance. Lance in turn blushes lightly caught off guard by Yorak's professional demeanor.
“Woah, didn't know you were escorting the little prince.” Moving past Yorak to stand by Lance, James bows as he continues, “I apologize Prince Lanceal.” Lifting his gaze, James removes his mask, offering a kind smile he makes eye contact and notices the glow on Lance's cheeks. His mouth speaks before his mind can catch up, “little glow bug, blushing I see.”
Lance can't help it, they aren't used to others pointing out the blushing glow, which causes Lance to blush even more.
“Ummm, well, I-I uh–”
Grinning like he lives for moments like these, James can't help but tease, “Well, look who’s lighting up again. You guys glow every time someone says ‘hello?’ makes me wonder what else glows. I'm sure your like the northern lights in bed.”
Lance stops their stuttering and stares mouth open at James. Their cheek markings flare brighter. Composing themselves, faster than Yorak, who is fuming beside them, they face James smirking face and with the driest, calmest tone imaginable, “Wouldn’t you love to know just how bright I get. I'll have you know, you could never make me blush, like so.”
Lance smirks as James face falls and then bursts out laughing. “Ok, little firecracker, didn't know Alteans were so sassy. I'm James Griffin, your highness.” James says with a bow.
Before Lance can respond, Yorak steps a little closer to Lance, not aggressive, just clearly unimpressed with James. He crosses arms, “Bite your tongue, that's no way to speak to royalty besides jealousy really doesn’t suit you, James. Try silence. It’s... more your wattage.”
Staring from Yorak to Lance, James eyebrows shot up. “Whoa, whoa, dude don't tell me…with an altean?!” James aks behind his hand.
At that Yorak and Lance jump, startled at the question, Yorak speaking up first, “James, please.”
“Ok, ok I'm done no more teasing, moving to wink at Lance, “you tell me if he gives you any trouble–ow!” James yelps from the pain after Yorak smacks him upside the head.
Laughing as he rubs at the spot, “Ok, I get it. Come on Shiro's waiting.”
They begin walking again James leading the way and Yorak and Lance following.
Catching up with Valerie and Kosmo in the castle hall, “mama!”
“There you are, guess what?”
“Mhmm?”
“We're gonna watch Kosmo for mister Yorak, how does that sound?”
“Yay!”
“I'm glad you're excited, I'll come by later to get him, ok?”
“Ok, mister Yorak.”
“Thank you, again Lance. I'll see you around.” Yorak says as he takes Lance's hand and bows placing his forehead to their hand, hesitant to stand straight once more.
Lance pulls back their hand, “You’re welcome, now I think you better get going your friend is staring.” They say laughing softly.
Yorak turns back, to see James look around as if he wasn't watching them. Walking towards him, he has to basically drag a laughing James, as he waves goodbye to Lance.
Covering up the smile with their hand, Lance follows Valerie and Kosmo to their room.
James and Yorak continue done the hall. A smile on James lips but he doesn't dare to bring up what just happened. Instead they continue down the hall where Shiro stands waiting.
“Look who I found! He was making heart eyes at the Altean prince.” James says once they reach Shiro.
“Thank you, James. I believe Thace is looking for you, something or another about patrol…”
“Shit–”, James says eyes widening, Shiro offers a gentle smile and says, “Don't worry, I covered for you, said you were doing me a favor, but I recommend heading back to your post.”
“Thanks Shiro, good luck Yorak.” James says as he runs down the hall disappearing around a corner.
Crossing his arms as he watches James until he disappears, Yorak knows Shiro has questions before he even asks them.
“Don't ask.” He says flatly.
“Wasn't going to… come on mister dark and broody a certain someone is waiting–”
“She's still here? I thought she would have left already.”
Shrugging Shiro answers, “Not sure, she cornered me last night, I told her you were on patrol, my guess things are moving faster than we thought.”
As they talk Shiro leads them down the hall, and into an empty room. It seems to be one of the libraries, this one being the biggest of all three. Krolia, in her castle guard uniform, stands by a table books are thrown about, but she marks a piece of parchment in front of her.
Saluting her, they stand at the opposite side of the table.
“At ease. Now we don't have much time, follow me.”
Yorak grows a little anxious at her words, turning to Shiro all he offers is a pensive look. They both follow her to an unlit corner of the library. Feeling around the wall. Yorak rolls his eyes of course there are secret passageways in this old, haunted-looking, castle.
Suddenly something clicks and the wall gives way to a passage, they follow the stairs down and Yorak can't help but look around there are artifacts on top of artifacts down here, and something covered in a tarp, as well as maps and papers.
Krolia stops further down the tunnel, at a small dimly lit room. Everything in it seems new as there isn't a thin layer of dust settling on the objects.
Setting down her piece of paper, she begins to scribble on it once more.
Shiro clears his throat getting her attention and Yorak is glad he did as he was just about to.
“Right, Keith… Shiro.”
Lowering her mask, Krolia’s voice softens as her eyes flick between them, filled with an emotion she rarely lets show — sympathy. Her gaze lingers on Keith a beat longer.
“I trust this passage stays between us.”
She doesn’t wait for them to acknowledge her words — the question is more a command than a request.
“I was going to leave,” she continues, stepping away from the parchment closer to them, boots quiet against the cold stone floor, “but some news arrived. Acxa is hesitant, meaning Lotor is planning something she does not agree with.”
She pauses.
“I believe it has to do with the Alteans.”
Keith pulls off his mask abruptly, his movements sharp, his brow furrowed.
“Meaning? No offense, Mom, but a lot of people don’t agree with Lotor. And what do you mean with the Alteans? I thought the big plan was the wedding?? How do you know this?”
His jaw clenches, the anger in his voice slicing through the air like a blade. He wants her to see it — the frustration, the fear.
“Woah, Keith.”
Shiro steps forward slightly, a calming hand raised, his expression composed but alert.
“I’m sure she can explain. Krolia?”
“You both will just have to trust me,” Krolia replies, her tone unreadable.
She crosses her arms, a sign she’s preparing herself for pushback.
“We cannot give up the position of our source of information. But I trust them implicitly.”
“Bullshit, Mom.”
Keith’s voice rises again, his stance tense.
“Don’t you trust us? How do we know we can trust them?”
“Keith!”
Shiro interjects, not angry — just firm. He turns back to Krolia, eyes serious.
“I’m sorry, Krolia. But as much as I don’t approve of his profanity… Keith is right. If our friends are in danger — or if we are — you need to tell us.”
Krolia’s lips press into a thin line. She doesn’t flinch from the confrontation.
“Keith, what information have you given Acxa?”
“Well—” Keith hesitates, suddenly uncomfortable. “I haven’t really gotten a chance to talk to her.”
“Really?”
Krolia lifts an eyebrow, unimpressed.
“You do know our plan requires Acxa to be on our side, correct?”
“Yes, but—”
“I know it’s hard to put your trust in the unknown,” she says, her voice softening again. “But I need you to trust me. And when you see Acxa again, you need to tell her what you know. Everything.”
“Why?”
“To gain her trust,” Krolia explains, stepping closer now. “And so she can feed this information to who we assume is the mastermind behind all this.”
“Lotor?”
“Maybe.”
“How? I thought you said you had nothing on him? What makes you think it’s him?”
“We’re not sure if it’s him,” she says cautiously. “But we believe he has a certain connection.”
Shiro folds his arms, nodding slightly.
“While I have my doubts… you’ve been on this mission longer than we have. So we do owe you some sort of trust.”
He glances over his shoulder.
“But… I’ve heard the Prince and Princess of Earhtus are coming, along with some guests. As a diplomat, it’s my job to ensure their safety. If this is something you believe we should look into, we will. Right, Keith?”
“They’re really coming?”
Keith’s voice drops, surprise flickering across his face.
He notices the look exchanged between Shiro and Krolia — silent, weighted. Both nod.
“Okay… what do I tell her?”
“Everything,” Krolia says. “First, you have to gain Lance’s trust. It has to look natural, like they told you everything themselves.”
Shiro smirks slightly, teasing.
“Please. He already has that. They were walking the castle grounds not too long—”
Krolia tilts her head, intrigued. A hint of a smile threatens to surface.
“Oh?… Good. Out in the open. That means Acxa will believe you got the information from Lance.”
“Why is this important?” Keith asks, frustration simmering under the surface. “What do you think they want to know?”
Krolia’s expression grows solemn.
“Keith… have you ever heard of the dragons of Voltron?”
“Well… yeah,” Keith answers slowly. “Voltron was an elite group of warriors from different kingdoms, when all the kingdoms were very young. The dragons were wild, but they bonded with these warriors. Together, they fought many outside kingdoms so the young lands could prosper.
But the dragons left long ago, and with high tensions in the kingdoms, the warriors disbanded not long after.
The only dragon that maintains its high popularity is the blue dragon with its once Altean warrior. The Alteans are proud of Blue and her history. Lance would tell me the stories their mother told them.
But even they had problems keeping the tale alive.
Why does this matter?”
“Did Lance tell you anything else?”
“No… why?”
Krolia’s voice turns grave.
“We have reason to believe Blue is back. And she’s not alone.”
“What?”
Keith’s eyes widened.
“Yes…”
“How? And this *still* doesn’t explain why they need to know about the Alteans — or Lance, for that matter.”
“Yes, well…”
Krolia inhales deeply, steadying herself.
“Keith, you understood when I gave you this mission there would be sacrifices.”
“Yes, I do. I’ll do what needs to be done. But if I’m going to put my fami— my— the Alteans in danger, or anyone for that matter, I’ll need to know why.”
“You’re right,” Krolia says quietly. “Well—Keith, what do you know or have seen about the Galra kingdom?”
Keith thinks.
“Well, I guess… Galra love their acts of loyalty.”
“Yes. Exactly,” Krolia says, her tone sharper now. “The Galra *need* proof of loyalty. We have reason to believe they’re looking into any weak link — anything they can find. I’m not so sure they *won’t* find out about me. Or about you.”
“What do you mean? I’ve done my best to be loyal.”
“Yes. As Yorak, you’ve been very loyal,” Krolia says with a small nod. “And we need you to continue to be. But I think they will find out about Keith soon — another male heir with a claim to the throne.”
“What? But how?”
Shiro steps forward now, his voice low and urgent.
“We’re not sure,” Krolia says. “But I’m sure Zarkon and Honerva are all over it. They wouldn’t risk coming out of hiding unless they knew Lotor was the sole heir — that their bloodline could be protected.”
Keith stiffens, feeling the weight of it all begin to close in.
“I know this may be a lot,” Krolia says gently. “But I need you to grow close with Lance. And tell Acxa… tell her Lance used to have a lover named Keith. Tell them Keith was an orphan. That his mother died — but was rumored not to be human.
Don’t confess everything. Lance didn’t know you were Galra. Let them verify the rest.”
Keith’s voice is barely above a whisper.
“What will they do once they find out?”
“Hopefully?”
Krolia’s eyes flicker with something unreadable.
“They’ll go looking for you. And if we can plan what they’ll do — what they’ll find — we’ll be a step ahead of them.”
“Mom, is this really necessary?”
“Yes.”
She meets his eyes firmly.
“If we ever want to end this… this is the way.”
“Okay. As long as you’re sure no harm will come to Lance, or Valerie, or any of my friends.”
“Keith…”
Krolia steps close, placing a gloved hand on his shoulder.
“I would want nothing more than to assuage your fears. But you know I can’t promise that.”
“It was worth a shot,” he mutters.
“We will do what we can to keep them safe.” Krolia’s promise is quiet, but resolute.
“Thank you.”
Wiping the corners of her eyes Krolia then clears her throat, “Alright. Shiro has filled me in that breakfast today is with the Galra and Alteans; probably to discuss the Earthus guests coming. Yorak escort him there, once you do, find Acxa, and gain her trust. Understood?”
With a brief nod, Yorak equips his mask once more. Shiro offers a hesitant smile and worrisome look, but he waves it off, he can do this; nothing's gonna hurt them, not while he can help it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Late morning sunlight slanted through the high windows of the dining hall warming the mosaic floor and illuminating the long table laid with fresh linens, polished silver, and dishes still steaming from the kitchens. The scents of rosemary bread, honeyed fruits, and smoked lamb mingled with the quiet murmur of servants making last-minute adjustments.
Three figures sit at the table, sleep still in their eyes, all having had a rough night. Allura sits at one end, the far end of the table. Coran and Romelle on either side.
Allura holds a ceramic cup between her palms, steam rising gently from the spiced tea within. Her eyes followed the window light as it shifts across the stone, though her attention remains half on the conversation between Coran and Romelle. It's the gentle touch, Romelle's touch, that brings her back to the conversation.
“Princess? Are you alright…” Rolling her eyes at Romelle's and the dumb habit they had picked up of addressing her formally, she responds playfully, “I'm fine Lady Romelle, really. Now what were we discussing?”
“Ah! Me and Romelle were just chatting about the Daibazzal court, our meeting is with them today. The wedding details will need to be flushed out. A royal wedding, the circumstances could be better, but it is exciting, is it not?” Coran said excitedly.
Allura looks down at the cup in her hand, sighing deeply. “I'm sure it's just nerves Coran, as you said this is exciting, right ‘Lura?”
Raising her gaze, she looks eyes with Romelle. They really haven't touched the subject again, she's tried to avoid it, maybe even reason that something will happen and she won't have to marry him. But she is resolved to make sure her duty comes first.
Tilting her head, amused. “Not the first I've had butterflies, Romelle. I'm just overwhelmed…”
They offer a dry smile. “I'm sure you'll feel at home soon enough…”
Before Allura can respond, the large wooden doors creak open, drawing the room’s attention.
Lance enters with their young daughter perched in the crook of one arm, her small hands tangled in the collar of their tunic. His sleeping robes had been traded for soft daily wear. Their hair is still wind-swept from the morning. Valerie’s shoes tap against their side in rhythm with their strides.
“Well,” Lance says, grinning as he approaches, “seems quiet in here. A sign it will be a peaceful morning, I hope.”
Allura stands, taking Valerie from their hold. “Barely,” she murmurs, pressing a kiss to Valerie's cheek. “And you’re late.”
“Blame him.” Lance says as a flash of blue appears and with it Kosmo. Gesturing to the menace, Valerie squirms in her aunt's hold signaling to be put down. “She refused to leave our room, until Kosmo got a proper tour of the space. And then they have matching bows with their flower crowns, right missy?”
Valerie, now on her feet, walks towards Kosmo embracing him. “Kosmo just loves to dress up, mama!” she squashes her face into his fur, and laughs as Kosmo begins to lick her face.
“Ah, a dangerous duo I see.” Allura says with a smile. “Tell me about it.” Lance says with a soft chuckle.
“Are you ready for breakfast, Valerie?” Romelle asks, making their way to the toddler and crouching beside her.
Valerie nods. “Only the yummy parts.”
Laughter ripples lightly around the table, warm and familiar, as Lance lifts her into a seat.
Then—without announcement—the doors open once more.
This time, the air changes.
Prince Lotor and Princess Acxa, who walks beside him, enter. They cut a striking image– Lotor in a coat of deep purple, half-unfastened at the collar. Acxa in dark blue, her expression controlled, eyes sharp beneath a hairstyle of coiled braids.
The room’s conversation quieted—not abruptly, but enough to mark the shift. Plates clinked more gently. A servant hesitated, then resumes pouring tea.
“Forgive us,” Lotor says as he crosses the hall, his voice warm and too smooth to be truly apologetic. “We would have been here sooner, but someone insisted on inspecting the day’s council docket—twice.”
Acxa gave no reply beyond a glance and a faint lift of her brows.
Allura stood, posture perfect. “We weren’t waiting long.”
Lotor's gaze softens as it lands on her. “Still, I hate to miss a moment.” He moves to stand by her, and with a studied charm, presses a kiss to her hand. “You make the morning worth the delay.”
Lance doesn't rise, but their eyes track the exchange with flat interest. Romelle’s expression remains composed, though their teacup pauses mid-air, on its way to their mouth, just long enough to show the cracks in her serious facade.
Lotor then crouches beside Valerie’s chair, eyes twinkling. “Ah, and the little princess, what a lovely flower crown, you'll have to make one for me one day.”
Valerie blinks at him, and before she can speak, Kosmo who lays at her feet, growls at Lotor.
Unimpressed Lotor stares down at Kosmo. “Ah, the little mutt, he's made a guard dog of himself I see.”
Allura places a hand on Lotor's shoulder. “Pay him no mind Lotor, they have become inseparable. The perfect troublemakers.” Amusement in her tone.
“I can see that,” Lotor replies, moving to take his seat at the other end of the table. Acxa sits to his right, and Lance across from her. She offers a nod more out of obligation than courtesy.
Servants began to move more briskly, their steps hushed but purposeful as they began to serve breakfast. Platters arrived—braided pastries glistening with honey, spiced root vegetables arranged decorative, thinly sliced meat still steaming, aromatic with herb oil and fire-char. One servant placed a small silver bowl of berries before Valerie with a quiet smile; another refilled Allura’s tea without prompting.
Lotor wasted no time. As soon as his cup was filled, he leaned back, all ease and entitlement.
“We’ve been discussing the ceremony,” he said, gesturing with his fork before taking a delicate bite of lamb. “I’ve suggested we host a formal ball in Daibazzal—one week from today.”
Allura blinked, halfway through lifting her cup. “A ball?”
“Yes,” Lotor said, not missing a beat. “A celebration to present us properly—as a couple. Unofficially, of course. But optics matter. A show of unity to both our courts before the official vows in Altea. Let them see stability, joy, the inevitability of it all.”
Coran clapped his hands, jostling his plate. “Oh! Now that does sound splendid. We haven’t had a true diplomatic ball in years—music, dancing, dignitaries in their best. I still have my formal robes from the last summit, somewhere—”
“Coran,” Romelle interjected, tone dry. “It’s a bit sudden, isn’t it?”
Lance finally set down their fork. “You think?” Their eyes flicked to Lotor, then to Allura. “A week? You’ll barely have time to vet the guest list, let alone secure the hall or coordinate security.”
Lotor waved a hand. “All minor details. It’s not a coronation, it’s a gesture. Symbolism. Besides,” his voice turned to honey, “my fiancée wishes for peace just as much as I do, right dear?”
Allura’s lips curved faintly—tightly. “Yes, of course. We’ll manage.” But her tea remains untouched in her hands.
A moment of silence passes. Only Valerie’s quiet humming as she mashes berries into her toast.
Then the doors opened again.
Shiro enters, the sunlight briefly catching on the silver threading in the collar of his diplomatic coat. He nods respectfully to the room as he approaches, then speaks with crisp formality.
“Apologies for the interruption.”
“Not at all,” Lotor says smoothly, standing. “Just the man I wanted to see. I hear Earthus royalty will be arriving soon?”
“They will,” Shiro confirms, meeting his gaze. “Their advance team is finalizing arrival procedures. I’ll be assisting with coordination.”
“Excellent,” Lotor said with a pleased nod. “We’ll want your input in the upcoming talks. Having and impressing Earthus early, will help with our peace agenda, after all Earthus has always been neutral...”
Shiro inclined his head in agreement, then stepped slightly closer to Acxa. His voice dropped as he murmured just loud enough for her to hear, “There’s someone outside who wishes to speak with you.”
Acxa’s eyes narrowed slightly, but she rose smoothly. “Excuse me for a moment.”
Lance's gaze follows Acxa to the still-swinging doors. For the briefest moment, they catch sight of a familiar figure standing just beyond them—Yorak. He stands still, too still, his masked face, unreadable.
The doors eased shut again with a soft thud.
Romelle caught the flicker in Lance’s expression, but says nothing. They merely sip their tea, listening to the Coran explain Altean wedding traditions from behind the rim of her cup.
~~~~~~~~~~
Acxa stepped into the quieter hall, the ambient sounds of the dining room muffled behind her. Yorak stands waiting, already braced in a soldier’s stance, his voice low as he bows.
“Princess, I have news–”
“I'd hope for your sake.” She crosses her arms and while she is taller than him, he feels significantly shorter.
“It's about the alteans, and your claim to the throne…” her eyebrows raise for a second, clearly intrigued but she's trying not to let it show, he continues, “I was talking to Prince Lance, they mentioned their time in Earthus, however they met and dated, for a while, and earthus citizen who lived at the castle. The name of Keith Kogane…”
“Kogane? As in Shirogane?”
“Yes, he was an adoptive brother to the Shirogane household.”
“And what makes you think this is so important, what's so special about this Keith.” Her voice is sharper than usual but Yorak doesn’t flinch. He’s cleverer than he looks. And patient.
Hook, line and sinker. “The prince mentioned Keith was born in Earthus but his mother wasn’t. His father died young. His mother left when he was a child — disappeared, really. Sounds like she was running from something. It would need to be looked into, but… the fact is… Queen Krolia’s body was never discovered.”
There it is again. That if — Krolia alive, her mother alive, or at least she was for some time. It's not the first time she heard the theory, when she was young many of her mother’s court thought she was still out there, but– it’s been so long. Her mother is dead. She died in the attack. That’s what they said. That’s what everyone decided.
But no body. No grave. No proof. Just smoke. She wouldn't have left. She wouldn’t have abandoned—Unless she did.
Her jaw tenses. She hates that Yorak is watching her, weighing her reaction, she hates she feels so vulnerable out in the open.
She forces a scoff — low, dismissive — like the idea is laughable. But her fingers twitch. Her eyes flick a nearby window, away from him. “That’s a hell of a leap to make. Just because a boy’s mother vanished doesn’t mean she was a queen in hiding.”
Her mind races though, with the idea of Keith being her half-brother. A bastard prince raised on foreign soil. How many years has he lived without knowing what he was or the claim he has on the throne.
“It’s speculation, I admit. But, even rumors can be useful, when timed right.” Yorak states.
Damn her mother — if it’s true. Damn this Keith for existing. For possibly being real. For dragging ghosts out of her past.
She lifts her chin. Controlled. Cold. But the edges are cracking, just slightly.
“We’ll look into it. Quietly. No word leaves here. But I want you to find out more from Lance. I might have an idea on how, don't go far.”
“As you wish, Princess. I await your command. ”
He stands, silent and efficient, and she moves to open the kitchen doors once more. Taking a breath as she enters, the conversation around the table continues. Clearing her throat, the others raise their eyes to meet hers.
Lotor glances her way, his brow lifting slightly in question.
She doesn’t sit.
“I apologize for the interruption,” she said, voice steady and clear. “But I do have important news, that my brother was surely not brought up yet. As you mentioned your Altean traditions we have traditions here too. One such was established after the war” Narrowing her eyes at the Alteans, Acxa spoke calmly, yet her words had a certain sting to them, “After the war Altea was left with many fields and vegetation. However, in Daibazaal many of our people still face starvation–.”
The room quieted.
Lotor speaking up, “What Acxa means to say is as you have your duties, we also have ours–”
“Brother, I'm sure they understand, the war was hard on all of us, as they say. You see Allura, we usually run food supplies for many of the villages who have little food production. Me or my brother, we personally bring food and supplies. Now, we would love to have you and Lotor do it this time around, but we do not wish to risk your safety or stop any planning for the ball and wedding.”
She starts off solemnly and ends with a smirk on her face.
“As such I propose that we send Lanceal..”
A beat. Even Kosmo, at Valerie’s feet, lifts his head.
“Acxa?” Lotor questions.
“Lance?” Allura gasps.
“Me?” Lance asks. “Why me?”
“Well, as second in line they can fulfill this duty and as an Altean it would show the peace talks are moving along smoothly.”
“Acxa…” Lotor repeats, his tone tense as if to ask what has gotten into her.
“But don't worry we will send our best guards with them, and of course Yorak.”
“Yorak?”
“Yes, he will protect Lanceal, you have my word.” Axca says as she bows, a sign of respect and a move she knows Lance will have a hard time saying no to.
“Well I…, Lance?” Allura asks. She knows she can't speak for them, but it honestly seems like there is no other choice.
“Oh uhmm I….Of course, I'll do it. It would be an honor.” Lance says as he bows back.
Acxa smirks as she rises. “Excellent.”
~~~~~~~
Lance sighs as they continue to fold garments, it will only be a day trip, they'll make it back the next day around early afternoon. But, Lance has never been one to pack simple and in addition to packing for Valerie, he fills a duffel bag, carry-on, and backpack.
The backpack is Valerie's purple backpack and it holds all her essentials, like toys. She wears it proudly as she walks around the room looking for other small things she can pack.
Lance wishes he could have her care free demeanor but Lance can't help but feel angry…maybe not angry maybe used is the right word. Not like he could turn down Princess Acxa's request and that that they would. Lance is actually a little excited to be free from the castle walls, and Valerie is practically beaming, extremely excited.
Something about this though, seems strange, they can't shake the feeling they should be here for Allura while the wedding discussions are happening. Their only consolation is that his friends and family are on their way, maybe they'll feel more comfortable once they are all together.
“Lance? I knocked but there was no response, ready to head out soon?”
“Oh. Sorry Allura I was busy in thought, yeah, I've got everything we'll need.”
“So. How are you feeling?”
“Scared. But… this is good, right? A new step forward, towards peace?”
“That’s all we can do, Lance. Keep stepping forward. Come on, I'll walk you to the carriage.”
It was silent as they walked the castle halls, making their way to the front corridor. Valerie was at their side, tiny hand gripping their fingers, eyes wide and shimmering with excitement. Once they stepped outside she was already pointing at the carriage as if it were a new toy rather than a diplomatic vessel wrapped in risk.
The morning air was thick with the smell of horses, oiled leather, and the fresh bread packed into crates for the journey. Guards busied themselves with final checks, murmuring in clipped tones.
“I still think I should be here with you,” Lance said, voice low but edged with restless energy. “At least until the wedding plans are finalized or the preparations for the ball are checked over. This all just… happened fast.”
Allura stepped forward, her smile tight but kind. “I know. Believe me, I feel it too.” She glanced toward the road, where Daibazzal’s border shimmered somewhere in the heat haze. “But you’re the one they’ll listen to. You’re not just my cousin. You’re a crowned prince of Altea. Show our future subjects they can trust us.”
Lance exhaled, a half-laugh catching in their throat. “I’m not sure what my face wears right now, but it’s probably panic.”
Allura chuckled, then softened. “You’ll be okay. You’ve got trained guards, supplies, and more emotional resilience than you give yourself credit for. Besides…” She looked down at Valerie, who was now tugging gently on Lance’s cloak. “She could use some time away from politics, away from the castle.”
Valerie beamed up at them. “Can we go now mama, please!”
Lance knelt beside her, brushing a curl from her cheek. “Yes honey. But you have to stay close, okay?”
Valerie nodded solemnly, the kind of seriousness only toddlers can manage. “Promise.”
Lance rose again and glanced back at Allura, brows knitting with a familiar mix of love and worry. “Just… if anything changes while we’re gone—”
“I’ll signal you. Immediately. Coran and Romelle are already preparing contingencies.” She reached out, squeezing Lance’s arm. “This is peace now. We make it, moment by moment. You're doing that.”
They stood there for a breath longer, the castle behind them and the road ahead, neither one easy.
Then Lance nodded, swallowed their nerves, and took Valerie’s hand.
“Let’s go.”
~~~~~~~~~
Acxa leans against the window still, arms crossed. Lotor approaches, quiet but focused. He studies her before speaking.
“You jumped the gun.” He speaks after a beat.
Acxa unbothered shrugs and responds. “I’m not sorry.”
“Not like I expected you to be, you rarely are.”
She tilts her head, gaze sharp, her tone a little defensive. “Yorak told me something.
About a possible heir to the Daibazzal throne. It seems my mother wasn’t as dead as yours had hoped.”
“Watch your tongue-”
“I don't want to fight, I just ask that you look into the rumor. His name is Keith and he lives in Earthus.”
Lotor raises an eyebrow, intrigued.
“Interesting. So, how did Yorak come by this information?”
“He said the prince told him, seems he's got them wrapped around his finger. Told you he'd be useful.” As she speaks she turns back to looking out the window. She fails to notice Lotor's intense gaze, or his plotting smile.
“Zethrid and Ezor will accompany them.”
Acxa turns back to face her brother about to question his sudden approval, but knows not to chance her luck, “Okay. As long as you've agreed… I’m glad.”
~~~~~~~
He was on autopilot, grab and go, no time to think. Is this what his mother was thinking? That Acxa would make him spend time with Lance, had he unintentionally put a target on Lance's back.
He really didn't want to think about it, but her eyes he saw the hint of betrayal, he had felt that same betrayal from the same person. He can't blame her, her whole world view had flipped.
He'd imagine Krolia would be in touch soon regarding her plan, but, but now he had made his knapsack, slung it over his shoulder, and made his way to the carriage.
Stepping out into the courtyard, he looked around noticing Lance with Valerie and Allura. To the side was Lotor and Acxa and behind them two Galran soldiers their uniforms gave them away as personal royal soldiers. As he stepped down the stairs, Lotor approached, making a big commotion with his hands.
“Ahh Yorak thank you for joining Lance on this relief mission, it's very important as you know. My sister trusts you to get the job done, and protect the Prince if anything is to happen. I have agreed with the condition Ezor and Zethrid-” he pauses as the soldiers approach offering gentle nods of greeting. “There are two of my personal guards, my top soldiers really, they will ride a long side the carriage, and aid with the distribution. The carriage is stocked the driver has a map, you'll be going to the village of C'Rayrst, by the mountain side. Now heed my words the Alteans safety is our number one priority, understand?”
Bowing his head, Yorak responds, “Of course sir, I understand.”
“Excellent. Come Acxa let's bid our farewells.”
Acxa and Lotor make there way to Allura, Lance, Valerie, and now Coran and Romelle have joined them. Yorak lingers behind with Ezor and Zethrid.
“You look nervous, are you nervous?” Ezor asks him almost winding around him, like a snake.
“No, it's just an important assignment.”
Patting his head, Ezor continued, “Aww don't worry mini Galra, we'll keep you safe, right Zethrid?”
Zethrid gave Yorak a once over before saying, “Sure he's small Ezor, but I'm sure he can look after himself. Now, let's get going, don't wanna hold them up.”
Making their way to the carriage, Lotor was assuring Allura and Lance of their protection, and that he had personally assigned his best to the mission.
“Ah, there you two are. Allow me to introduce your companions. Zethrid. Ezor. Ezor has the occasional loud mouth and Zethrid can be quiet it's a little nerve wrecking but they are the best of the best.”
“Pleasure to meet you both, thank you for joining us. We're very grateful, right Valerie?” Lance says as he looks down at Val by their side.
“Thank you.” Valerie says with her best courtesy.
“Of course, little miss. This will be exciting, you'll get to see Daibazzal's country side. This’ll be fun!” Ezor said.
Zethrid grunted her greetings.
At that, Valerie tugged at Lance's sleeve, “I like them, mama.” She whispered loudly.
“I'm glad honey.” Lance says with a soft chuckle.
“Well, let's not keep them any longer. Safe travels to you all.” Lotor says as he wraps his arms around Allura.
Allura hesitant at his touch but regains her composure, "Yes, safe travels Lance, you to Val.”
The carriage was of a simple style. It was loaded with supplies and the cabin was big enough for seats for four passengers. The driver took his position in the front and Lance entered with a quick nod to Allura and the gang. Valerie waved goodbye out the window. Yorak entered the cabin sitting across from Lance and their daughter.
They shouted their goodbyes as Ezor and Zethrid mounted their horses and directed them to follow the carriage.
Yorak watched as the two Alteans leaned out the window shouting their farewells, laughing to himself at the fact it appeared they were more out of the carriage than in.
Suddenly Valerie turned around to him, concern laced in her voice as she asked, “Wait, where's Kosmo!”
Just then a flash of blue appeared in the cabin.
Laughing as Kosmo licked her face, Valerie was extremely excited to see her troublemaking buddy.
Thumping his tail like crazy, Kosmo hadn't realized how much space he took up in the cabin. Yorak tried to calm him down, saying, “That's enough buddy.” Kosmo yipped at him. Yorak responded, “I know you're excited, but you got to calm down.”
After a while Kosmo, calmed down from his initial excitement and he and Valerie took a seat next to the window watching the hills roll by.
They had taken up playing a simple game of eye spy. Valerie, a little dramatic in her ways, was making Kosmo guess what she was looking at.
Kosmo yipped his reply, and Valerie would take a second to respond before ultimately saying that he was wrong. After a while Kosmo began to grumble. Lance trying to keep the peace said, “Valerie, honey, maybe you shouldn't play this game with Kosmo. He can't tell you what you are spying.” Yorak, speaking up from his corner, said, “of course he can, Kosmo told me his name himself. It just takes him a while to get comfortable.” Mouth agape, Lance stared at Yorak, this couldn't be the, serious soldier, the stoned clod hearted warrior, Lance had gotten to now. There was no way that Yorak had such a false notion.
Taking a bit too long to compose themselves. Kosmo yipped once more and teleported out of the carriage. For a second, they were all confused wondering where the space wolf gone, but glancing out the window, they realized Kosmo was chasing something outside. It didn't take long for him to teleport back and when he did, he had a spider like creature in his mouth.
Lance began to shriek loudly, while Valerie laughed in excitement as Yorak grabbed ahold of Kosmo's fluff, yelling out for the driver to stop the carriage. He took Kosmo outside with the unwanted creature. Lance began to catch their breath holding onto their chest, they rolled their eyes when Valerie said that Kosmo still hadn't found the object she was spying. The whole fiasco caused some minutes delay. But they were now on the road once more.
Valerie and Kosmo now laid curled up in the corner of the cabin fast asleep. They were into their journey by a couple hours and Lance could not blame Valerie and Kosmo for napping, it seems to be the best way to spend time. Lance was leaning near the carriage window looking out, at the scenery around them. They took out their holo pad and snapped a photo of Val with Kosmo chuckling to themselves. Yorak stared in their direction. Lance replying with, “ it's blackmail for when she eventually starts to hate me.”
“Why would she ever hate you?” Yorak wondered out loud.
Lance rolled their eyes and said, “Please, all kids end up hating their parents or at least finding them annoying, just want to have good blackmail when she doesn't feel like she needs me anymore.”
Yorak couldn't help but chuckle at that. He wasn't sure about blackmail, but he did think they made a cute picture.
“You okay there, soldier?” Lance teased. Yorak replied with a quick nod of his head.
Lance smiled softly, then leaned back again, letting the countryside wrap around them like a soft, slow lullaby. The kind of peace that made them feel both light and painfully aware of how long they’d gone without it.
For the first time in weeks, maybe longer, they breathed without the weight of stone walls pressing in.
As the carriage rolled through the countryside, Lance leaned back, one arm draped lazily over the seat, and looked at Yorak.
“So how is Mr. Brave soldier passing the time,” Lance asked, "I'd imagine it would be best to get some shuteye but I can't really tell with your mask on.” Lance continued as they gestured to their own face. Yorak stayed silent for a while and tilted his head to Lance’s direction. Lance continued then with a question, “Can I ask you something?” Yorak responded, “You can try.”
Lance tilted their head, studying the dark mask that always framed Yorak’s face like an unspoken warning. “Why the mask? You never take it off.”
Yorak didn’t answer immediately. His hand flexed slightly against the hilt of his blade, his tailed swished around him, thumping against the cabin—then relaxed.
“Habit,” he said finally. “And… something like a promise.”
Lance raised an eyebrow. “Promise, about what?”
“it serves as a reminder of someone I used to be.”
The carriage swayed gently. Wind slipped through the windows, cool against their cheeks.
“That’s vague as hell,” Lance said softly.
Yorak gave a quiet, breathless laugh. “I know.”
Then, almost sheepishly: “Another time. I’ll show you…when it feels right.” from his hesitant voice Lance knew he was talking about his face, yet Lance felt there was more of a silent question of why he was hiding it in the first place.
Nonetheless, Lance didn’t push. But they smiled—just a little. “Okay.” They dragged the word out teasingly. “But you could always show me now. You never know when a tickle monster might attack. And you need to take your mask off to breathe…”
Yorak sat up straighter, and even with the mask, Lance could feel the look he was giving them.
Grinning, Lance made their way over to him, fingers outstretched like claws. “Tickle monster, incoming.”
Yorak backed up until his shoulders hit the wall of the carriage. “Prince, don’t you even think about it. I’m supposed to protect you, but I can’t make any promises if you start tickling me.”
“Oh come on, how are you supposed to protect me if you can't handle the tickle monster?” Lance replied, diving in.
Laughter burst through the small cabin, bouncing off the wooden walls. It was loud, unrestrained, and ridiculous—until Zethrid cleared her throat.
The cabin abruptly fell silent.
The carriage had stopped.
Lance coughed into their palm, trying to compose themself as Kosmo let out a deep, contented whuff beneath their seat. He stretched his long limbs and bounded out into the sunlit clearing with a soft growl of approval. Valerie shifted gently in the bundle of blankets nearby.
Lance brushed a lock of sleep-tangled hair from her forehead and murmured, “Hey, starlight. We’re taking a little break. Let’s get some food in your belly.”
Valerie blinked awake, eyes sleepy and bright. “Kosmo?” she asked immediately, rubbing her eyes.
“He’s right outside.” Lance smiled, lifting her carefully in their arms and stepping down from the carriage. Kosmo trotted over at the sound of Valerie’s giggle, tail wagging in slow, protective sways.
Lance set her down and offered a piece of dried fruit from their satchel. “Stay close, okay?”
As Valerie began to toddle in wide, curious circles, Kosmo trailed her loyally, never straying far. Lance rolled their shoulders with a sigh, easing out the stiffness from the ride. The clearing was quiet, just a wide patch of grass and scattered stones along the road.
By the carriage, Yorak leaned against the wooden frame with his arms crossed—expression as unreadable as always, but the flush across his cheeks hadn’t completely faded.
Zethrid caught it immediately. She nudged Ezor with an elbow and raised an eyebrow. “Alright,” she said, voice low. “What was that all about?”
Ezor gave Yorak a long, amused once-over. “He’s got that look. You know the one.”
Yorak didn’t move, but his jaw twitched.
“Lance was trying to tickle me,” he said flatly.
Zethrid blinked. “Tickle you?”
Ezor gasped with mock scandal. “And you let them? What’s next—holding hands?”
“I don’t—” Yorak began, but Ezor waved a finger.
“Say no more. We’ll be your wing women now,” she declared with a grin.
Zethrid gave a solemn nod. “It’s decided.”
Yorak exhaled sharply through his nose, averting his gaze—just in time to catch Lance crouching beside Valerie in the grass, helping her pick yellow wildflowers. Kosmo nosed around them, ever watchful.
Lance smiled softly as Valerie proudly held up a crumpled flower like it was treasure. It was a quiet, private kind of smile. A real one.
Yorak’s eyes lingered—just for a moment too long.
Lance glanced up.
Their eyes met.
No smile this time, just stillness. Something quiet shimmered between them—fragile, familiar, unresolved.
Ezor leaned in and whispered, “I saw that.”
Yorak rolled his eyes and turned away under the pretense of stretching his legs.
Then the call rang out from the road ahead—the driver, waving his hat. “Let’s move! The village isn’t far!”
Lance stood, gathering Valerie back into their arms, their expression unreadable. Kosmo bounded ahead toward the carriage, tail swishing high.
Zethrid clapped Yorak on the shoulder as he moved past. “Hey,” she said casually. “Want to ride my horse for a bit? You’ve been cooped up long enough.”
Yorak raised a brow. “You're offering your horse?”
“You’re tall, stoic, and full of repressed emotions. She’ll love you.”
He hesitated, then gave a small nod. “Thanks.”
With that, he swung onto the saddle in one smooth motion, adjusting his grip on the reins as Zethrid handed them off with a wink.
As Yorak urged the horse forward to follow the carriage, Zethrid turned back and climbed into the cabin just as Lance was settling Valerie beside Kosmo.
“Mind if I ride inside this time?” she asked, easing onto the bench across from them.
Lance didn’t answer right away. They were focused on tucking a blanket around Valerie, who had already curled up against Kosmo’s side.
Only when Valerie was asleep again did Lance sit back, hands folded in their lap.
“Suit yourself,” they said quietly, gaze fixed on the passing trees.
Zethrid tilted her head, watching them for a moment.
The energy from earlier—the mischief, the laughter—was gone. Lance sat with their shoulders slightly curled inward, distant in a way Zethrid hadn’t seen in them before.
So she didn’t press. Just sat with them in companionable silence as the carriage rolled on, wheels creaking softly over the road.
The village wasn’t far now.
~~~~~~~
The carriage came to a stop just outside the village square, wheels crunching over gravel and dry grass. The sun beginning to set, but villagers were gathered all around the square. Lance stepped down first, Valerie in hand, squinting up at the scenery —modest stone homes with brightly painted shutters, and narrow streets lined with woven flags in Daibazzal’s colors.
Zethrid than followed, helping Yorak and Ezor unload the creates of supplies. The murmurs of the crowd began to die down, and they looked at Lance, to say something. Their throat felt dry as they looked out to the people of C'Rayrst. They were expecting them to say something yet the words felt caught in their throat, all of a sudden the hold Valerie had on their arm felt overwhelming and Lance couldn't quiet their mind.
“Hey breath, it's ok, you got this.” Yorak appeared beside them, a gentle touch on their shoulder as he spoke. Inhaling and exhaling slowly Lance was able to calm down. Smiling wide, they look out into the crowd, speaking loudly, “I've come on behalf of Prince Lotor of Daibazzal and Princess Allura of Altea. As many know there are peace negotiations happening to bring stability and prosperity to both kingdoms. In show of peace I, Prince Lanceal of Altea have come to C'Rayrst to fill a tradition carried out by the royals every year. We have brought food and supplies for all, as well as Altean treats as a start of a new tradition, one we hope to carry out once Altea and Daibazzal are joined as one.”
The silence hit harder than any weapon Lance had trained against. A hush so thick it stole the breath right back out of their lungs. Their smile faltered—just a twitch—but Yorak must’ve felt it, because his hand stayed firm on their shoulder.
Lance’s eyes flicked nervously across the crowd. Dozens of wary faces stared back. Some Galra, others of mixed heritage, all bearing the haunted look of people who'd seen too much war to trust a gift without a catch.
Yorak shifted beside them, posture easy but alert.
Then, movement.
From the middle of the crowd, figures slowly parted—like the sea retreating for something weightier than tide. An older Galra, thickset with fur gone silver around the jaw, stepped forward. His eyes were sharp and intelligent, though time had etched them with suspicion.
He stopped just short of the platform where Lance stood. His voice rumbled low, like distant thunder, “You do not wear a crown.” He gave a dry snort, continuing in his native tongue, “Royals, are rarely so plain, or so humble."
Yorak coughed—half laugh, half choke—and murmured under his breath in the same tongue, just loud enough for Lance to hear, although he knew they wouldn't understand, “ That’s because they aren't stuck-up like most.” At that the elder raised his brows in Yorak's direction.
Lance blinked, then laughed nervously, the sound cracking through the tension. They took a cautious step forward, eyes on the elder. "You're right," Lance said, choosing their words with care, voice strong despite the nerves still flaring in their chest. "I didn’t come here to act like a ruler. I’m not here to command, or to impress anyone with a title."
They looked around again, at the faces waiting—not with hostility, but with caution born of too many broken promises.
"I came here as someone who wants to help. Who believes peace is something we build together, not something signed by nobles behind doors." A pause, their voice softening. "This food, these supplies—they’re not a bribe. They're a gift. For your families. For your tables."
Lance turned back to the elder, meeting his gaze directly.
"Please. Let this be a beginning. One we build with trust, not fear." They offered a gentle smile.
For a moment, there was only silence.
Then the elder huffed—a deep exhale that might’ve been a scoff or the beginning of something else. He reached out slowly and took one of the food parcels from a nearby crate, inspecting it with the same wariness he’d given Lance. Then he gave a short nod and stepped aside. Turning to speak to the village he said, “Altea speak of peace, they have come to show us their kindness, we shall show them our gratitude and excitement with a festival in their honor.”
And like snow melting in the sun's heat, the crowd shifted. They began to cheer and one by one accepted the food.
A young mother edged forward, then a lanky teen. One by one, hands reached out—not just for food, but for the tentative thread of hope being offered. They moved in—not with the desperate rush of starvation, but with care and gratitude. Some helped unload. Others handed out water. A group of children surrounded Valerie, wide-eyed at the little girl from the castle who had glowing cheeks.
Lance worked alongside the guards, handing out parcels and greeting people with a mix of practiced diplomacy and genuine warmth. Yorak stayed close, eyes scanning the crowd behind his mask, but his posture was relaxed, less on-edge than usual.
A woman handed Lance a small bundle of flowers—humble wild blooms, tied with twine.
“For your kindness,” she said. “And an apology for our prejudice." Holding onto her hand, Lance couldn’t blame them, any of them. They too had their feelings of coming to the village of Galra in general and while there were differently bad eggs, they couldn’t blame all of them. Almost kicking themselves for not coming to realization earlier, they said, “ No apology necessary, but thank you.” Lance smiled softly at her, as they took them looked around at the faces—tired but open, wary but willing. Hope lived here, even if it wasn’t ready to spoken about yet.
Lance felt the first real weight of what peace could look like.
Not banners. Not treaties.
This.
As the night approached the town square pulsed with music—something stringed and lilting—and children darted past them in streaks of color, laughing without restraint. Banners in Daibazzal colors fluttered across narrow streets, lanterns were being lit in doorways, and the scent of grilled meat and spiced breads spilled into the air like incense.
The royal party sat near the farther end of the square, there was laughter and food, many came up to them to ask about the journey and the castle. While they had heard of the princess of Altea they hadn’t seen her in person, but had heard of her beauty. They’d remark Prince Lotor must be a lucky soul to find a princess like her, and one who hopefully had the same morals as her cousin Prince Lance.
As the onslaught of questions died down, Lance tried to catch their breath. They sat on a low stone wall near the square’s edge, arms wrapped loosely around their knees. Their eyes were soft, distant. Watching from afar Valerie playing with Galra children and Kosmo, the scene causing them to smile.
“What a day, huh?” Ezor said, sighing from where she sat herself down, by Lance. She held a spiced alcoholic drink in hand, something that Galra seemed to enjoy. Passing one to Lance they nodded their appreciation, to be honest while it wasn’t their favorite it did taste better than nunvil.
Lance blinked back to the moment and nodded. “Yeah,” they murmured. “But this is nice, being out of the castle–”
Zethrid and Yorak approached quietly, crouching beside Ezor, their eyes on the fire pits being stoked near the middle of the village square.
Ezor let out a soft laugh, nudging Lance with her shoulder. “Yea!l… Galra do know how to party, don’t we?” Her smirk was mischievous, tired but genuine.
Lance chuckled, rubbing the back of their neck. “Yes, definitely fun all around.”
Just then, the crowd shifted. A line of dancers stepped forward, their clothes accentuated with jewelry and extra fabric, and the music changed to be more lively . Spinning and leaping, they twirled flame in practiced arcs around their bodies—the Dance of Embers had begun.
Ezor’s face lit up instantly.
“Oh—!” she gasped, nearly bouncing on the spot. “Excuse me your highness–” Without another word, she shot up and disappeared into the circle, her body already moving in tune.
Lance, watching her move, asked, “do all Galra know the dance?”
Zethrid watching Ezor as well, a small smile tugging at her lips. “She’s from a village, where the Dance of Embers originates," she explained. “It’s in her blood. Every holiday, festival, whatever—they lit up the night like that.”
Nodding at the explanation, Lance stood, brushing dirt from their pants, heart pounding—not from the flames, but from the warmth in the air, the music that made their bones hum, the joy that buzzed despite all that had been lost.
They looked around at the others—Regris, their driver, who Lance had learned not long ago was named Regris, was leaning against a barrel, drink in hand, clearly content. He raised his cup in salute.
Lance smiled, something shifting inside them. “Come on! We should join in,” they said suddenly. “Even if we don’t know it.”
Regris slurring his words a little, “Oh no. I don’t dance, but Yorak does and Zethid as well, amazing dancers... Besides I got to check on the horses, “ grinning he continued “But please—enjoy yourselves!”
Yorak blinked. “What, oh n-no i don’t dance, really–”
Zethrid arched an eyebrow, amused.
Before either could continue to argue, Lance reached out and grabbed their hands. “Come on,” they laughed, pulling them both toward the dance. “We should live a little too.” The firelight caught in their eyes as they stepped into the circle, unsure of the steps, but guided by laughter, heat, and the rhythm of hope returning. Valerie soon saw them dancing and joyed into the circle as well, Lance and Yorak grabbing her hand to lift her up as they spun.
As the music faded into the night, leaving behind only the crackle of fire and the sound of breath—quick, joyful, and shared. The dancers stood in a loose circle, shoulders rising and falling, cheeks flushed with heat and laughter. Ezor and Zethrid had slipped away in search of drinks, laughter trailing behind them. As Lance stood there savoring the pause. Raiyak, the village elder from before, approached eyes gleaming beneath his heavy brows.
“I see you’ve found your rhythm,” he said with a warm chuckle, hands folded behind his back. “There’s still much more to see, you know. The night’s just begun.”
Lance stepped forward, breath still unsteady, eyes bright. “Thank you,” they said, and meant it deeply. “This... all of this means more than you know.”
The elder’s smile deepened. He gave a slow nod before turning away, disappearing once more into the tide of celebration. As he left Ezor and Zehrid returned drinks in hand a light flush in their cheeks, “What fun, so what now prince?”
Looking down at Valerie’s wide eyes, as she surveyed the whole festival, she clearly wasn’t tired even if it was past her bed time. Sighing, Lance said, “Why don’t you and zethrid enjoy the rest of the festivities, me and Valerie will check out the festival ourselves, right honey?”
“Yea!” She replied excitedly.
Hesitantly they stared from Lance to Valerie, until Yorak spoke up, “don’t worry, I’ll accompany them, it’s as Lance says go enjoy. Clearly Regris is.” Yorak made the assumption as Regris hadn’t returned from when he left earlier that night.
“Thank you, your highness, we’ll be only a call away if you need us.” Zethird said, Ezor grinning happily as they made their way across the crowd.
“So, what are we doing first?” asked Yorak. Sighing Lance replied, “ First of all you didn’t have to stay with us. We would have been perfectly fine.” Laughing slightly Yorak said, “ Of course you would have, but I guess I didn’t want to be alone.”
“Oh–, well we appreciate the company.”
“Mama, can we get food?” Ingonat to their conversation, or more focused on her hunger than their banter.
Turning to face Valerie, Lance couldn't help but blush. Letting out a soft chuckle, “Yes let’s go.” Continuing, they spoke to Yorak, “Too bad, you didn’t grow up here.”
Turning to stare at Lance, Yorak asked, “Why?”
“Well you could have shown us around, or at least where to get food.”
“Oh please, playing tour guides can't be that hard.”
“Really? You're gonna show us around?”
“Yea, come on.” Standing up, Yorak offers Lance his hand. They accept with a role of their eyes, and Yorak can't help but notice the hint of affection behind them.
“So where to, mister tour guide?”
“Well why don't we head to the markets, we passed them before.”
“Lead the way.”
Valerie took off after Kosmo, where the space wolf had begun to run in the direction of the markets, with a squeal.
“Val—!” Lance started, but Yorak was already moving, surprisingly nimble in his armor, catching her by the hand before she vanished into the crowd.
“She’s fine,” he called over his shoulder. “We’ll race.”
So they did.
They ran off together, Kosmo trotting faithfully at their side, his silver fur catching the lantern light like stardust. The festival unfolded before them in waves of color and scent—booths lined with fragrant street food, glimmering trinkets, and handmade charms that tinkled gently in the breeze. Valerie clutched a sugar-dusted bun in one hand, her eyes wide with delight. Lance walked beside her, their smile soft, one hand brushing Valerie’s hair back from her face. Yorak laughed more in those few hours than Lance had heard him in all the weeks they'd known him.
"Look, look!" Valerie tugged at Lance’s sleeve, pointing excitedly at a booth where paper birds hung from thin strings, fluttering as if alive. “They're flying!”
“They’re wishes,” Yorak explained, crouching beside her. “Galra write them down and hang them up, so the wind can carry them where they need to go.”
Valerie tilted her head, thoughtful. “Can I write one?”
Yorak chuckled and handed her a small paper slip and a brush from the vendor. “Only if it’s a really good wish,” he said, grinning.
“I want to wish for Kosmo to learn how to talk,” Valerie announced, as she scrawled a wobbly sentence across the paper.
Kosmo gave a soft huff, clearly unimpressed.
Lance laughed. “Careful. He already talks, according to Yorak. Might never get him to be quiet if you wish for him to talk even more, Lance teased. “Unimpressed Yorak crossed his arms, “Fine, don’t believe me, but it’s true!”
Laughing Valerie scribbled something else under her first wish. Lance catching her action and asked, “So, what else did you wish for” As they walked away from the vendor, after handing them the wish. “To stay here forever, with you and Mister Yorak, and Kosmo!”
Lance couldn’t agree with her more as the festival pulsed around them the world, just for now, felt utterly whole.
Later, they stood together beneath the open sky as fireworks bloomed overhead—brilliant bursts of crimson, gold, and violet dancing among the stars. Valerie gasped with each one, her small hands reaching skyward. When the last firework faded, leaving only the hush of night and the sparkle of constellations, they lingered.
And Lance—Lance floated.
With Valerie squealing joyfully as she sat on their shoulders, and Yorak’s steady presence at their side, it was like the world folded in around them. Just the three of them. Music in the air. Laughter on their tongues. The ache of the past quiet for once.
At one point, Yorak turned to them, face soft in the lantern light. For a second, just a flicker, something in his mannerisms caught Lance off guard. A look. A tilt of the head. A hunch in his posture…
Keith?
No. Not quite. But something close. Something familiar in the way he moved through a crowd without needing to command it. In the way he always stood slightly between them and the chaos, like a shield that wasn’t trying to be obvious about it.
Lance looked away, heart suddenly full of too many things.
But before they could fall too deep into it, Valerie pulled them both into a dance. No rhythm, just tiny feet and twirls and giggles. Yorak laughed again—unrestrained, boyish—and joined them. Even masked, he was lighter than Lance had ever seen him. He moved like the weight had shifted to somewhere else, and for once he didn’t seem to feel it
And for that night, that fleeting little world held.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Later into the night, Yorak had walked Lance and Valerie back to the guest room they were staying at. He held Valerie against his shoulder as she dozed off the night's excitement. Lance had hesitated to grab her and whispered a soft good night before vanishing behind the closed door.
Now, the steam curled like ghosts around Yorak’s bare shoulders, rising from the warm waters of the outdoor spring and disappearing into the chilled night air. His mask lay beside him, forgotten for now, his face exposed to nothing but the stars. The place they were staying had a bathhouse and for all the excitement outside, the bathhouse was pretty empty. Yorak took that as an opportunity. And let his thoughts swirl around him as the warm water.
He’d smiled too much tonight. Laughed too easily. Let his guard down because it had felt so easy to belong again. With Lance. With Valerie. With the little things—shared food, quiet moments, the feel of small hands tugging at his leg. For a while, he’d let himself fall into it, let the illusion wrap around him like festival music and firelight.
But now the stillness was setting in, and the ache followed.
He leaned his head back against the smooth stone and let out a slow breath. The heat didn’t loosen the knots in his chest the way he hoped. If anything, it brought the memories closer—too close. The scent of smoke from earlier still clung faintly to his skin. It reminded him of nights long ago, when the world was simpler and his name wasn’t something he had to hide.
He closed his eyes.
Gods, he loved Lance. He loved them so much it hurt. Watching them today—laughing with Valerie, brushing her hair back, eyes shining with wonder—was like a blade wrapped in silk. Every small gesture chipped away at him.
He remembered their body in the quiet hours, the curve of a smile just before sleep, the way Lance used to look at him like he was the only star in their sky.
Now, Yorak could only look from a distance.
And Valerie—his daughter, though she didn’t know it. Her laughter still echoed in his ears. He could still feel the warmth of her hand in his. If he could freeze time, he would’ve stayed in that square forever, watching fireworks with them both. Pretending that nothing had changed. That he was still theirs.
But tomorrow, they would return to the castle. To duty. To names and masks and all the silence between truths. He would walk beside them, guard them, lie to them—again. For their safety. For the plan. For their future.
He hated it.
His gaze lifted to the sky, the stars spread out in quiet brilliance above him. Somewhere out there, he had once told Lance, no matter how far we are, we’re looking at the same stars. They had agreed, curled beside him on some forgotten hilltop in a time that felt like another life.
He wondered how often Lance remembered. Like the night before where Lance stared up at the stars, did they look at them all night, every night. Did Lance really remember him with such fondness? How much was Keith still hurting Lance?
The truth sat heavy in his chest, unspoken. All he could do was feel—and tonight, there was so much feeling it almost drowned him.
Let me stay, he thought, throat tight. Let me stay just a little longer. Just like this.
The water lapped gently at the stone. The wind whispered through the nearby trees. And Yorak, alone beneath the stars, held the memory of a life he couldn’t yet claim—and the hope that one day, he might.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lance lay against Keith’s chest, warm under soft linens, their fingers lightly tangled. The stars shimmered above through an open window, the air cool, calm. Keith’s breath was steady, and his voice hummed low against their ear.
"No matter where we are," he said, "we’re always under the same stars."
Lance closed their eyes, letting the ache in their chest unravel for just a moment. “I wish we could go back,” they whispered.
Keith kissed the top of their head. “Me too.”
But slowly, the warmth started to bleed away.
Keith’s hands slipped from theirs. His skin paled. His chest no longer rose and fell. Lance looked up—and the face above them had changed.
It was Yorak now. Mask on, but purple skin and furry Galra ears a top his head. Blood soaked his armour, trailing down from a deep wound across his chest. He was so still. Too still.
“No,” Lance choked, reaching for him. “No—Yorak—please—”
The dream twisted violently. They were no longer in bed, but standing in the heart of the C’ryast—the festival square. Only it was empty. Burned. Ash stained the air, and bodies lay scattered like broken dolls.
Children. Elders. Dancers. Vendors.
All the people of C’ryast.
Dead.
And Lance was holding the blade.
Their own sword, that damned Luxite blade, slick with blood.
They stumbled back, chest tightening like a vice. Yorak’s body lay at the center of it all.
“You did this,” a voice whispered.
You failed them.
You said you wanted peace.
But all you bring is ruin.
Lance couldn’t breathe. The world pressed in, thick with smoke and sorrow and guilt that clawed up their throat like fire. They tried to scream, but their lungs refused. Their hands wouldn’t stop shaking.
They had promised to protect them. All of them.
And now they were dead.
They awoke with a gasp, drenched in sweat, pulse pounding like war drums.
The room spun. The bed felt like it was closing in around them.
They had to get out.
Lance bolted upright, threw on a cloak, and slipped out the door. Down the hall. Past the guards who barely noticed the quiet panic in their steps. Out into the night, beneath a sky far too beautiful for how broken they felt inside.
They ran.
Through grass and trees and silence.
They didn’t know where they were going—only that they had to move. The dream clung to them, heavy and sharp. Their legs carried them until the air burned in their lungs and the ground turned uneven beneath their feet.
Finally, they collapsed at the edge of a clearing, shoulders trembling, tears already falling. They buried their face in their hands.
“I thought I could fix it,” they whispered to no one. “I thought I could bring peace…”
A soft crunch of leaves.
Lance stiffened—but didn’t look up.
They knew that sound. That presence.
Yorak.
He said nothing as he approached, silent in the dark, his mask gleaming faintly in the moonlight. He stopped just a few paces away, watching them quietly. Then, with careful steps, he knelt beside them.
Still, no words.
Only presence.
Lance didn’t realize how cold they were until Yorak’s arms closed around them.
It wasn’t rushed—just quiet, deliberate, like he knew exactly how to hold them without making them shatter more. Lance’s face pressed against the curve of Yorak’s shoulder, breaths still hiccuping, heart still racing.
Yorak didn’t speak.
He simply gathered them close, cloak falling around both of them like a shield. One hand rose to cradle the back of Lance’s head, the other moved in slow, steady circles across their back — a rhythm that felt like a song they’d almost forgotten.
A promise.
“Nothing’s gonna hurt you, baby...”
It wasn’t said, but Lance heard it anyway — in the quiet, in the steady pulse of Yorak’s chest, in the way he held them like they were something precious. Something breakable. Something loved.
Lance’s fingers clutched at his cloak. “I couldn’t save them,” they whispered. “In the dream… I killed them all. Everyone in the village. You were—” Their voice cracked. “You were dead too.”
Yorak didn’t answer. He only pressed his hand gently against Lance’s spine, grounding them.
The wind brushed the grass. Somewhere in the distance, an owl called.
“As long as you're with me / you'll be just fine.”
Lance shut their eyes. For a moment, in the hush of the night and the warmth of Yorak’s arms, it felt like Keith was there again.
Like maybe, just maybe, they weren’t alone.
“I thought I’d moved on,” Lance said, their mouth faster than they could think. “But being here, with you, and the village... it all came back. Everything I wanted to forget. Everything I still want.” Lance had begun to ramble and maybe it was the effects of the nightmare still lingering but for a second it felt as if they were speaking to Keith, as this was a moment between lovers. Lance didn’t care though, they craved this comfort.
Yorak’s hand paused for a fraction of a second—then resumed its slow path along their back. Steady. Reassuring.
And though his face was hidden behind the mask, Lance could feel the ache in him too — like a phantom heartbeat beneath the surface.
“Words we never meant to say / in silence where we used to lay.”
They didn’t speak again for a long time.
Lance leaned into him, eyes heavy, breathing slowing. There were things that couldn’t be said—not yet. Not safely. But they could feel them in the quiet. In the way Yorak held them like a prayer he could never voice.
Maybe the peace would crack.
But tonight, wrapped in shadow and memory and moonlight, nothing could hurt them.
Then, softly—barely audible—Yorak said, “You’re not alone.”
The words were simple, but something in the tone struck deep—familiar. Like a voice from another life.
Lance didn’t respond. Not with words.
They just clung tighter.
And the next morning when Lance awoke back in their room, they would wonder how, before finding Yorak’s cloak wrapped around their shoulders. Holding it tight Lance’s heart would give a funny beat, almost of longing.
Notes:
Songs that inspired Chapter Four:
Nothing's Gonna Hurt You Babe- Oh my gosh this song has been in the back burner for a while, I think it captures perfectly how Yorak and Lance feel for each other during this chapter.
One Last TIme LP- Gotta give a shutout to this one for the festival vibez!
I'm in love without you- Finneas - I think this captures how yorak wants lance to move on from keith, and how lance is slowly starting to fall for yorak. It's a love triangle with themselves??
Pastlives- omg! this song so good. You know the past life yearning delicious.
Can you hold me- NF- title alone, but it is a good song.
City Lights- Hall Johnson- just for vibez
Renaissance- Paolo B & Skin- ahhhh!, i love this song and thing it fits with this bois
Playlist: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRLoV339oEc5tNBsqhbbPKtGKfjrd29-Y&si=YmJ20MgUhs79gxJY