Regret is a taste bitter in his mouth. At this point it's difficult to pinpoint what exactly he regrets the most; not saying an honest goodbye, not calling more often, not telling them how he cares when he was still a part of them, or maybe just leaving in the first place. He imagines how those conversations would go, in the cold nights after. The things he'd say to each of them in turn.

Pidge, I know you must think I'm an awful hypocrite after getting so mad at you for even thinking of leaving before. I hope you won't hold it against me though, I knew even then that we couldn't lose you. I'm not the best with words, but you should know that I think you're incredible, and talented, and so strong. I'm so proud of the hero you've grown into, the hero you've always been, I guess. Goodbye.

Hunk, your kindness and generosity truly amazes me every single day. I'll admit, it was a little jarring for me the first time I was on the receiving end of your open affection, the small considerate things you do for us all. In a good way, of course. And on top of that, you've also got such a powerful mind, you're a skilled fighter and pilot, and despite everything you're so brave. I admire you, big guy. Goodbye.

Allura, we're so alike, and yet so different in so many ways. Our stubbornness and impulsiveness combined is probably dangerous, I think we've learned that the hard way if we're being honest. But beyond that, your determination, your leadership, your fighting spirit has really kept us all afloat since the beginning of this. Thank you for keeping me on track when my temper might have gotten out of hand. You're an inspiration, truly, and not to mention a good friend. Goodbye.

Shiro, for the longest time you've been my only family. I'm happy to say now the number I consider family has grown, but I'll never be able to thank you enough for always being there for me. All this time in space has made you ripped as hell, and yet somehow, the biggest muscle you have is still your heart. You've taken us cadets under your wing and lead us all through battles and trials we never could have imagined. Thank you for being my brother. Goodbye.

Lance,

Well, Lance was a different ball game altogether. He'd imagined how it would go a million times over, almost always way too self-indulgent.

Lance, I want to start by saying thank you. For supporting me, and keeping me afloat when I needed it most. For keeping the team afloat when I couldn't do it alone. You were my right hand, and I can't express how grateful I am for that.

"What do you mean were, mullet? You can't shake me that easily, no matter where you head off to or what exclusive and secret organisation you join. I'll always be your second."

Lance is never one to stay silent, not even in Keith's head. He's vocal and unashamed of what he's got to say. Keith envies him for it.

I think you're my first honestly. About 90% of my decisions would have ended in disaster if you weren't there. He cracks a grin at this, ocean blue eyes warm and undeniably fond. I don't just mean on the battlefield either. I've never been great at connecting with people, but you made it feel easy. Inevitable really. You drew me in, right from the start, riling me up and making me part of this as though it was simple. I could be immature, and competitive, and laugh, and just have fun with you, with your joking and bickering. We were a good team, don't you think? I'll miss you a lot.

"You don't have to go, you know. I mean you could stay here with me, with us."

He seems to read something in Keith's expression, taking his silence for an answer. Keith can barely even bring himself to imagine what he must look like in this moment, vulnerable, determined yet hurting.

"Okay." Lance says in a low tone, soothing and yet melancholy, resigned "You better come back to us though."

And with that, he reaches out to pull Keith into a swift embrace. He's entirely wrapped up in Lance's frame, taking a few moments just to process being hugged before slowly bringing his own arms up to reciprocate. His fingers intertwine with the familiar green jacket, burying his face into the space between shoulder and neck. They fit together like puzzle pieces, nothing has ever felt more like coming home for Keith. A word crosses his mind in that moment, stronger than friendship, filling him up and practically pouring out of his chest. And yet he says nothing, content to bask in this moment. To burn every detail into his mind permanently, and forget for a minute that this is goodbye.

This is what he regrets the most; not having enough time to say goodbye at the end. Because it is the end, for Keith at least. He sees the galra battleship, with the almost impenetrable shield, and realises with a detached sort of irony that he and the ship have that in common at least. It's fitting, he thinks, that he should go down like this, but it doesn't stop him hating those walls in this moment. He wishes he had allowed himself to be more open to his team, his family.

"Goodbye, everyone" he mutters to an empty ship, thrusting forward with his hands and gearing it into as high a speed as is possible. It feels natural, zooming as fast as he can go through the open space. He had always loved piloting, loved it even more when he met Red. No one could go as fast as her, no thrill could compare to the elated feeling of soaring past solar systems from her cockpit.

"Bye, Lance. Take care of Red for me." He lets out at barely a whisper, knowing that he won't be heard; Keith is alone. At least he knows this is the one message that doesn't need to be said. Lance would care for Red regardless of whether or not Keith was there to tell him. It's what he does. The only thing Keith does is leave. Leave the garrison. Leave earth. Leave the team.

Time to leave.

He squeezes his eyes shut, seconds away from hitting his target. He doesn't have it in him to face the end straight on, otherwise he just might lose his nerve, swerve away at the last second. And that's not an option right now. His heart is pounding furiously, as though trying to live out the rest of its lifespan in the moments before it's all over.

Keith braces for impact.