Rewrite the Stars: A Voltron Love Story

by MaggiesHeartLove

You've heard the story of The Princess and the Paladin, now see what happens next. A paladin with a shadowy past. A princess with a dream for the future. New feelings among friends. Old faces join the fight. An ongoing war. A prince torn. A truth hidden waiting to be uncovered. It's the legend of Voltron... with a twist.

36. Through the Lion's Eyes

I want to dedicate this chapter to my cat Salem, who passed away February 6, 2020.

You will be in my heart always, my precious boy. Tell Abuelito, Tommy and Sassy I said hello.

How many storms have I been through

How many led me right to You

You're using the pain, the hardest days for my good

My good

So what do I fear God, You are with me

Guiding my steps today

Through the mountains, valleys, sun and rain

Lord, lead the way, lead the way

I will follow, I will press on

Even when the walk feels long

Your hands hold me together

Your love is with me forever

Through the broken, through the victory

I will praise You through it all

And run hard 'til the race is done

I, I'm gonna press on, press on

-Press on by Mandisa

Through The Lion's Eyes

In spite of where they were, for this one moment, there was a light shining in the darkness. The team was back together and Lotor was reunited with his friends... his family. The home he had yearned for but was too blindsided by his own grief to really see. Venta taught him the beauty of love, while the paladins taught him the struggles and the strength that came with it. Sometimes strength also meant facing the realities he had been too afraid to admit. Their friendship showed him not only what he really was, a broken man with a hardened heart, but also who he could be; a man who lifted others up rather than use them to lift himself.

This was the man Lotor wanted to become from this day onwards. No longer the arrogant banished Galra Prince, but a member of Team Voltron.

As much as Lotor wished he could stay in the moment for a bit longer, sadly, it needed to end. They may have been reunited again but they were still trapped inside the shadow creature's domain without their lions while everyone else was battling the rest of the creatures outside.

"So, what do we do now?" Pidge asked.

"We have to find a way out of here," Allura said.

"How?" Hunk asked, "We don't even know where our lions are."

"They must be here," Lotor said, remembering a crucial detail from before the paladins escaped their dream sequences. "I heard their roars not moments before you all escaped."

"I heard it too," Lance said. It was then when said roars returned. The sounds came in all directions making it near impossible to pinpoint their exact location. The five individual roars joined together like a harmonizing choir. It was a beautiful sound, one which filled the paladins with peace and serenity.

In the distance, the heroes saw glowing shapes appearing amidst the darkness. Their first instinct should have been to pull out their bayards in defense, but they didn't feel the need to. These energy beings meant them no harm, they felt it in their bones. Not only that, but their presence felt familiar. Like a long lost friend returning home or a family member dropping by unannounced after having not been seen for months.

The shapes drew closer, their silhouettes becoming more defined. There were five of them, each walking on four legs, radiating with energy that illuminated the darkened sky above them. The creatures were not human, but radiant beasts. They were lions. Their lions. They had shed their metallic armor and were now standing before them as spirits.

Black's purple fur shimmered with stardust which floated around her, swirling and spiraling to create shapes that resembled a variety of constellations from all across the universe.

Beside her were Red and Green. Green's fur smelled of a mixture of pine and berries, roses and grass, literally every scent one could find in a forest, merging together into the most intoxicating aroma Pidge had ever smelled. Her lion embodied everything beautiful and dangerous about the untamed forest.

Red's fur was bright as rubies with trails of flames rising from the ends of every tuft? of fur but the flames did not feel hot. They felt warm like hot chocolate or a heated blanket and the way the flames moved were like mist rising upwards from a chimney, moving in a delicate dance as it rose high into the sky.

Blue's fur had an icy shimmer which ran down her body with every movement she made like the ripples of a river. Her movements were slow and captivating to watch so much so that Allura couldn't pry her eyes off of her.

Yellow was a lot bulkier than the rest, standing at the same height as Blue. His fur was much thicker and his paws larger by comparison to the others. He was intimidating in stature, but his eyes were warm and so loving it almost made Hunk want to cry.

Their tails curled and uncurled at the sight of their respective paladins, their purring vibrating in the paladins' ears in a soothing manner, stripping away any traces of anxiety or fear. They were much larger than any lion but no larger than a full-grown stallion.

Keith stepped forward and the Black lion craned her head towards him. His fingers brushed the surface of her nose. Keith couldn't keep himself from trembling. She was here... she was really here, not as a machine but as herself. As her spirit. And he was standing right in front of her.

Black's golden gaze locked with Keith's. They stared into each other's eyes for a few more tics, though for him it felt like hours had gone by since he last blinked. Black purred against Keith's body, her nose brushing against his tear-stained cheeks. In a single swoop, he wrapped his arms around the lion's neck, grabbing clumps of her star-studded fur. Her left paw rested on his waist.

"Black. It's you." Keith sobbed, "It's really you."

Seeing Keith fully embrace his lion gave the others the courage to do the same. Throwing all courtesy out the window the paladins charged at their respected lions, clinging onto them as though they had been lost to them forever. Allura's tears fell on Blue's stunning fur, which was much softer than it appeared at first glance.

"I'm so sorry, Blue. I'm sorry I didn't listen to you before." Allura wept, but the lion simply licked her tears away with her tongue. Normal lions had sandpaper tongues which would have been an unpleasant feeling, but Blue's licks were soft like silk cloth. The lion pressed her forehead against Allura's, purring lovingly.

Red playfully rubbed his head against Lance's, licking his face and hair. The paladin laughed at his lion's playfulness, who even stood up on his back legs just so he could give Lance a proper hug. Pidge slid to the floor on her knees, hugging Green's torso. The lion craned her neck over Pidge's shoulders, rubbing her chin against the back of her paladin's head. Yellow wasted no time in jumping on Hunk and licking his face. Hunk laughed and cried tears of joy while rubbing his lion's head and chin.

"Ah, who's a big fella? Who's an adorable big fella!"

Lotor watched them all with childlike merriment. He had no idea how this was possible but he didn't care. He had always known how powerful and mysterious the Voltron lions were. People called them weapons of remarkable power, beasts of mystery and wonder, and yes they were all of those things, but most of all... these were souls who truly, deeply loved their paladins without question. They were alive, they were real, living, breathing beings capable of independent thoughts. Their characteristics were on full display.

Red was rambunctious and playful, but openly affectionate and passionate, just like Lance. Green was the smallest of them all but her eyes were kind, wise and full of energy. Just like Pidge.

Blue was soft, gentle but gave off an imposing presence beneath her radiance. No different from her princess.

Yellow was big and hulking, strong in both size and demeanor, but every bit as wholesome as Hunk was.

Black was every bit of a leader. She was the tallest out of all of them and she carried herself with dignity and confidence, yet there was no air of superiority about her in any way. She was patient and wise as well as courageous and powerful. She saw the leader in Keith even when he didn't see it himself. Lotor knew perfectly well why she choose Keith to her champion.

The prince felt himself freeze in place when Black looked up from Keith and at him. She approached him, her golden eyes almost unreadable. She blinked softly and the corners of her mouth turned upwards. Her ears flickered as she nuzzled against Lotor. He was confused at first until he remembered that she was the one who carried his father's spirit for a while longer in order for the two of them to gain closure for their many years of separation. Lotor's concerns? melted away and he hugged the lion back.

"Thank you." He whispered. "Thank you for bringing him back to me, even if it was for a short moment. I'm sorry for the trouble we have caused you." The Black lion purred, her way of reassuring Lotor that he was already forgiven. She had forgiven him a long, long time ago.

Lance felt Red nudge him forward. At first, Lance wasn't sure what Red was trying to tell him until he looked right in front of him. It was Blue, smiling back at him with a face that reminded him so much of his mother it made Lance cry right then and there. The two walked towards each other at the same time and Lance was reunited with the first lion who saw the potential in him from the start.

"I missed you so much," Lance said, nuzzling against her fur. Her left paw rubbed against his back.

Keith and Allura were startled when Red started jumping around them like an excitable kitten. The flames around his body glowed brighter as he pounced. The coupled laughed at his playfulness and he jumped on them both, knocking them flat on the floor, licking their faces as they ruffled his fur, which felt warm but not enough to burn them. Though Keith was thankful to Black and loved her just as much, he never forgot about Red. The temperamental lion always held a special place in his heart and always would, and he knew now that he held a special place for him as well.

Though he didn't speak in words Allura saw the truth in his eyes; he was sorry he did not choose her to pilot him before, but it was not due to her being unworthy, it was because he knew she was better suited for Blue. He did it for her own growth even if it meant they couldn't fly together. But Allura didn't care about that. She didn't care if she never got to ride him, all she really cared about was the fact that they were still a family. She knew he chooses his paladins wisely and for that she was grateful. She gave Red a big kiss on the nose. He purred lovingly.

Black called upon the rest of the lions with a soft roar. The four lions stood at attention?; Red on Black's right and Green on her left with Blue right behind Red and Yellow behind Green. The lions roared in unison. The heroes watched in wonder as the clouds of lightning above them dispersed even further, revealing a long pathway. At the very far end of the pathway, off in the distance, was a strange formation shrouded by a fog which made it difficult to decipher just what they were looking at.

Lotor's eyes squinted to get a better view. In the darkness, he saw a tiny light flickering. It was dim and weak at first, but it flickered again, its flashes in tune with the beating of his heart. His ears flickered. He heard something. A faint whisper but it was there. He stood still, waiting patiently for the sound to become more clear. The sound rose in volume as the light shined brighter though it was still hidden behind the mist.

The whispers sounded like breathing, no more like someone gasping for air. After a couple more breaths Lotor heard a familiar tune. He hummed along and tears swelled in his eyes.

It was the lullaby from his childhood. The lyrics played out in his head as he hummed along. The paladins heard this as well. Someone was calling to them. It was faint and distant but it was there if they stopped to listen to it closely.

Lotor felt his fingers twitch. He needed to follow that sound. He knew who it was. He felt in his bones.

"Mother."

Shiro was right, she was still alive. Trapped, but alive. And she remembered him. She remembered their song. She was reaching for him just as she had been doing all this time. Lotor only had a single moment with his father, and though it was short he would rather have one fleeting moment with him over a lifetime of loneliness and longing. One small thing could make a massive difference, he knew that now. Lotor had turned his back on Honerva once, he refused to do it again. He would not allow his family, the family he had lost, to disappear forever.

Even in darkness, the stars were always shining.

(Show Yourself, from Frozen 2)

Lotor: Every inch of me is trembling

But not from the cold

Something is familiar

Like a dream I can reach but not quite hold

I can sense you there

Like a friend I've always known

I'm arriving

And it feels like I am home

The humming grew louder and Lotor could practically feel her breath on his cheeks.

I have always been a fortress

Cold secrets deep inside

You have secrets too

But you don't have to hide

Show yourself

I'm dying to meet you

Show yourself

It's your turn

Are you the one I've been looking for

All of my life?

Show yourself

I'm ready to learn

Lotor felt his friends behind him. Keith and Lance clasped his shoulders firmly, nodding in reassurance. Wherever Lotor was heading they would follow. They weren't going to leave him behind again.

The lions bowed their heads to their paladins, who smiled in excitement. The lions were inviting them to ride on them once more. Only now, they would be doing it old school. The paladins mounted on their lions like knights on their noble steeds. Black's stardust fur shimmered in excitement once Keith was positioned firmly on her back. Blue's fur sparkled like diamonds once Allura was on her. She offered her hand to Lotor, hoisting him up and he rode behind her. Yellow's fur sparkled like gold dust, while Green's shone like emeralds and Red's like rubies.

The lions dashed away into the darkness, the paladins clenching onto the fur of their lions' necks. With each step, their paws made the pathway before them become a shimmering white. A glassy surface where the paladins could see their reflections staring back at them. They were left breathless at the sight before them. Their faces were practically glowing, the wind sweeping their hair like riders going off into the sunset.

For a moment they almost didn't recognize themselves. They looked so... the only words that came to mind was... free.

They thought back to their shadow selves and what they had been tempted with, something which they deeply regretted. It tied into what the shadow creature had said to them? before capturing them.

You paladins focus so much on things such as friendship and love yet you fail to accept the darkness within your own hearts.

Despite how it hurt to admit it the creatures had been right about that. They were supposed to be the heroes of this story but not even they were perfect. They had their flaws and their own burdens to carry, but just as Lotor had said, in spite of all of that, in spite of the parts of them that were either broken or crooked, they found the will to fight. The strength and courage to carry forward and to protect the ones they loved.

Keith learned that hardships could indeed make one develop a tolerance for pain, but only love could make him see the beauty behind those scars he had gained. As he looked at his friends, laughing with merriment, he could feel the last of his shackles slipping right off. The Black Lion purred, seemingly reading his emotions. She and the lions had chosen the paladins not because they were perfect, nor because they were 100% qualified from the start, but because they saw something in them.

They saw them for who they really were: Lost, lonely, scared and unsure. And distant. But they also saw something the paladins didn't see at first. They say love, hope, courage, confidence and endurance, and that the paladin too saw these qualities in each other.

Allura saw the good in Keith long before he could see it himself, and he saw the leader in her from the very beginning. They saw the leadership qualities in Lance, the unmatched bravery of Hunk and the kindness in Pidge. They even saw the good in Lotor and were thrilled to learn that he still carried that side of him even after they learned the truth. All they did was offer him their friendship and it made the biggest difference in his life.

Allura was right, Voltron really was more than just a weapon. It was more than just a symbol. It was a part of them. Different body parts coming together to form a single whole. Without one the others would be weaker. No two parts worked exactly the same, but that was what made their bond so strong. The shimmering pathway before them became so much more clear now; the lions paved the way for them, all they had to do was follow.

As the lions ran across the mysterious unknown more dark creatures appeared from above, but when they came close the lions would open their mouths and unleash a powerful roar, which in turn unleashed beams of light from their mouths just like their mouth cannons from when they were robots. They continued to do this with every shadow creature that came their way. Even as they walked through a valley of shadows and death, the paladins felt no fear. If their lions weren't afraid why should they be?

The lions' purring sounded like harmonizing in their ears, encouraging the paladins to join in.

Allura: Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah

Lance, Hunk, Pidge: Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah

Keith: Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah

Lions: Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah

The path led them across what looked like a forest filled with dead trees. The lions leaped from the rocks with acrobatic grace that was normally physically impossible for any normal lion. The paladins relished in the feeling and in celebration every time a shadow creature was obliterated.

As Black ran through the trees, the stars on her fur rose up, creating a spectacular display of dancing stars above Keith's head. They reminded him of the long nights he would spend with his father outside gazing at the stars, asking what the constellations were and what stories they held. Black remembered each one and it filled Keith's heart to joy to learn that she would remember such a small detail like that. The stars scared away any shadows that dare come near them.

Keith: I've never felt so certain

All my life I've been torn

But I'm here for a reason

Could it be the reason I was born

With every leap Blue's steps froze the trees, transforming them into crystallizing beauties that took Allura's breath away. Flakes of snow fell around her, the first time she was experiencing snow since Keith first showed it to her in the Astral Plane. Lotor reached out his hand to catch some flakes in his palm. It was beautiful.

Allura: Life has always been a journey

Full of pain and full of strife

This is the day

I see the way

The beginning of new life

As they made their way out of the forest a swarm of shadow creatures appeared, mouths open ready to devour them. Yellow jumped and when he landed on the ground the rocks rose up, sending a shockwave that blew the beasts away. Hunk threw his fists into the air, never feeling more alive in his life.

Hunk: Show Yourself

I'm no longer trembling

Green pranced and leaped as she ran, nimble and quick like a deer, and with every leap, she sprouted plants which brought life and beauty to the land, and every plant blocked away all of the shadows in their path.

Pidge: Here I am

I've come so far

The light was in clear view but a thick mist began to loom in, nearly making it difficult for the paladins to see. Red charged headfirst into the mist, his flames creating a guiding light that dispersed the mist so the rest of the paladins could see through it. Lance hugged his lion's neck who purred with delight.

Lance: You are the answer I've waited for

All of my life

Paladins and Lotor: Oh, show Yourself

Lotor: Let me see who you are

Once they escaped the mist they arrived in what appeared to be a crater, surrounded by jagged rocks and a river of boiling lava. Red unleashed a roar and the lava dispersed causing the hot rocks to cool down. Blue unleashed her icy breath to create a wall that would shield them from the mist and the shadow hidden inside it.

Lotor dismounted Allura's lion and approached the edge of the crater. In the center were tall, sharp, thorn-like rocks that seemed to have sprouted out of the ground. They were covered in cobwebs which hung like rags from a clothing bin. Lotor saw the light shining inside a cocoon, which throbbed like a blemish, yet the tempo of the movement felt more in tune with that of a heartbeat. As he walked closer he saw a figure inside it. The figure appeared to be that of a woman. He heard her breathing and the faint sound of her humming. She sounded so sad, frightened and alone.

The paladins stood behind him, all having dismounted their lions. The Black lion nudged Lotor from behind, encouraging him to go further. The woman inside this monstrosity was his mother. He could feel her. She was scared and lonely. Lotor knew how that felt. He had been alone all his life. But he wasn't alone anymore, and neither was she. She could escape this prison, she could be free. If she would just let him in.

Lotor: I hear you now

Open your door

Don't make me wait

One moment more

Lotor stepped closer to the cocoon, the shape of his body becoming more and more defined and his heart pounding harder and harder with each step. He could feel her, hear her voice, she was right there and he was going to break her free of her eternal prison at long last.

I hear you now

Open your door

Don't make me wait

One moment more!

Now that he stood right in front of the cocoon, Lotor pulled out his sword and with one swing he cut it open. A flash of purple light came bursting out. The paladins and the lions jumped around Lotor, shielding him from the blast. Once it had cleared the heroes noticed the lions had manifested a force field around them. Once the force field disappeared the heroes noticed they were no longer in the crater but rather... inside the cocoon. Which was a lot larger inside than outside. The vein-like surface pulsed like blood vessels and they could feel one's breath in the air.

In the very center was Honerva. She wore the same cloak she had worn during her time as Haggar, but her Altean markings were no longer sharp and angular, but rather small and rounded just as they had been before her corruption. Stands of her hair stuck to her sweat covered face, which had become a sickly pale. Her cheekbones were even more prominent and her skin was drying up like a raisin. She was wasting away.

Her arms were lifted up by thick thorny vines, piercing her skin yet drawing no blood. Her feet barely brushed the ground and her head hung low in shame.

"Mother!" Lotor rushed towards her. Tears of regret stung his eyes but he pushed past them as he cupped her face. She felt so much lighter than she should have. That couldn't be a good sign. Lotor held her face in both his hands, begging her to open her eyes.

"Mother, it's me. I'm here." Lotor wept, sucking in his lips, tasting his tears. "I'm sorry for what I said. You are my mother, you always have been. I remember, every night you used to sing to me when I was a boy. It was you all along. I spent years trying to find you and all this time you were trying to reach me."

Lotor gave her a gentle shake. He saw the dangerously slow breaths escaping her partly opened mouth but her eyes remained closed.

"Please wake up! I saw father. He told me he loved us. I couldn't save him but I'm going to save you." Still no response. Lotor's lower lip quivered. "Mother?... Mommy?"

With great hesitation, Lotor loosened his grip and Honerva's head hung loosely. Lotor broke down, his face wrinkled as he cried and fell to his knees. Allura clenched Keith tightly, crying into his shoulder. Pidge did the same, Lance cried alongside her as he held her close. He opened his arm to invite Hunk in and Allura reached out her hand to Hunk, inviting the three to mourn alongside them. The lions curled around their paladins, nudging them to keep looking. They weren't sure why. Honerva didn't have much time and no matter what Lotor did she just wasn't responding.

That is until Lotor began to sing.

I know you...

You're a special one...

He sang the known lullaby between sobs. He wasn't sure if it would work but he had to try something. He couldn't leave without her. He just couldn't.

Some see crazy...

Where I see love...

You fall so low

Yet soar so high

Big dreamers...

Shoot for o...pen skies...

...

Here comes the sun...

Lotor gasped, his head snapping upright when he heard a second voice joining him.

Smiling down...

Lotor quickly joined in. Here comes the sun

The two voices joined together for the very first time.

Smiling down

Smiling down

Lotor and the paladins watched in anticipation as Honerva's eyes slowly opened. The first thing he saw was the face of her son, crying his eyes out and smiling with relief to see her staring right back at him. In her weakened state, she managed to smile. The first smile Lotor had ever seen, and it was just as beautiful as he always imagined it would be. Her smile and the warmth in her eyes chased away any dark cloud that may have loomed over him. It was everything he had ever hoped for and much, much more.

Honerva: I can see a rainbow

In your tears as they fall on down

Honerva and Lotor: I can see a rainbow

In your tears as the sun comes out

As the sun comes out

Lotor gasped when the thorns around Honerva's wrists began to loosen. The former witch fell from her prison right into her son's waiting arms. The two fell on their knees, with Lotor held onto his mother for the first time in his life.

Honerva felt her energy starting to return. The pain in her wrists faded away, only to be healed by the loving embrace of her one and only son. She gasped for air, her breathing increasing as did her heartbeat. She felt her life essence returning to her.

"Is this a dream?"

"No." Lotor said, "It's not. I'm here, Mother. I will never let you go again."

Honerva looked back at her son, his face still stained with tears. With shaking hands she reached out and held his face in her hands, wiping the tears with her thumb. No longer were her hands those of a witch, but those of the woman she once was. She wasn't Haggar anymore. She was Honerva once again. No longer a prisoner within her own mind, she was restored in mind, body, and soul.

"My son." She wept. "My love." Mother and son pressed their foreheads together, crying tears of joy. Allura held her hands close to her heart as she watched the heartfelt reunion between mother and son. After so many years of being separated by darkness, they were together at long last. She wished Zarkon had been here to see this but she had a feeling he was watching them. Somehow, someway.

The moment, tragically, was cut short when they heard screeching coming from all directions. The lions stood protectively around their paladins, who in turn surrounded Lotor and Honerva, shielding them from the incoming threat. The surface above them began to give way and shadow creatures sprouted in. They had seen them take in many forms. Some forms resembled those of animals like bats, wolves and snakes or eels, some with wings as well. But these forms were more humanoid with elongated arms and legs, fingernails that resembled claws and skeletal wings that shouldn't have enabled them the ability to fly but did so nonetheless. Their mouths stretched from ear to ear, sharp like razors and long slithery tongues.

Each lion stood in front of their respected paladins, roaring and clawing at the creatures as they came at them. The paladins remained beside Lotor and Honerva, who clung to each other as the creature tried desperately to reach them. They were after the two of them specifically but were blocked by the lions. When the creatures couldn't stop them individually they merged together to create a monstrous, disfigured formation of what was, in their minds, supposed to be a hybrid between a cobra and a dragon.

"You can not win here, Lions. This is my domain now! You and your champions have already lost!"

"We have not lost anything." The Black Lion spoke, shocking everyone, Keith especially. He had heard her speak before but this was the first time he was actually listening to her speak outside of his head.

"It is you who have lost, old foe." Red Lion spoke in a voice that Lance could only describe as humbly confident.

"In your weakened state? What could you possibly have that is more powerful than me?"

"You truly are as blind as you look." Blue said.

This enraged the monster as he unleashed a stream of purple energy at the lions. Their roars created a shield around them and their paladins.

"We need Voltron!" Pidge exclaimed.

"Not to sound rude, Big Guy, but do you think maybe you could change back into your metal look so we can stop this thing?" Hunk said to his lion.

"There is no need to form Voltron when it is already formed, my friend," Yellow responded.

"So long as we are here, so long as you carry us in your heart, you already have Voltron," Green said. "Voltron was our gift to you."

Gift? What did she mean? Voltron was a part of who the paladins were. A part of who they had become. The lions gave that to them, they showed them what Voltron truly meant. But, there was something else. Something they were missing. They needed to find that piece or else they would be lost forever. Why would the lions take their time for the paladins to learn this?

The shield protected them from the beast but it wouldn't hold for long. Then, the lions began to sing. Their harmonizing voices rang in their ears. Honerva gasped.

"The voice." She whispered. "The voice from Oriande."

Now it was Allura's turn to gasp. She recognized that voice. She heard it when she entered the domain of... the White Lion. The voices, the song. It was all coming back.

I am the Voice...

In the wind and the pouring rain...

I am the Voice...

Of your hunger and pain...

I am the Voice...

That always is calling you...

I am the Voice...

I will remain...

The heroes listened carefully to the voices of the lions. They were individuals at first, but then they became one. One voice, one song, one being. The lions weren't just individual pieces, they were five halves of one whole. Allura remembered the images on the walls of the temple. The white creature and the beautiful, healthy people who followed it, while those who chose to follow the dark creature were sick and fading... just like Honerva was. Just like Lotor looked when he confessed everything. Those monsters were draining them from the inside out, granting them everything they ever wanted but at a deadly cost, and one that would benefit only the monster himself.

The voice surrounded them, shifting into a new form. As it did so, the shadow creature screeched in pain. It was afraid. It was afraid of the voice the paladins were listening to. The words of the White Lion echoed in Allura's ears.

Listen well, and you will find the answers you seek.

So she listened. She listened carefully. As she did so it was as if her own thoughts were being transferred from her brain onto the paladins. In their mind's eyes they saw what Allura had seen on Oriande. They saw the carvings, the symbols, they saw the past, the paladins of old, the first formation of Voltron, the trans-reality comet hurtling through the stars before landing on Daibazaal, and finally, what appeared to be the quintessence field. It was a scene they did not recall having seen at any point during their adventures, but it felt familiar somehow as well. Like a suppressed memory buried deep within the depths of their collective subconscious.

The two beings were battling for dominance within the rift. One was dark and full of hatred, anger, resentment and fear, but also an unquestionable amount of arrogance that not even all of the known oceans in the universe could drown out. The second being was different. It was white, shining bright like a billion stars all stacked together to create an imposing force. While the shadow inspired evil the other inspired righteousness. The intense brightness made it difficult to make out its shape but they did detect the outline of an armor and a sword and its face was so bright it was as if the sun itself were its head. The next moment they saw flashes of what appeared to be an explosion of some kind out in a dissolute part of space. Fragments of quintessence swirled together to form a comet which hurled across the universe before landing somewhere.

The paladins gasped for air when the images stopped. Their lions roared, keeping the forcefield up as much as they could. The shadow creatures were breaking through the barrier. But the paladins did not tremble. Something came over them. It wasn't fear, and it wasn't confusion. With every collision the shadow creatures made with the barrier, forming larger cracks, the heroes stood together, hand in hand behind their lions.

Allura: I hear you now

I've opened my door

You don't have to wait

One moment more

The lions stopped their roaring, smiling with pride at their respective paladins who were practically glowing. Both figuratively and literally.

Paladins: I hear you now

I've opened my door

You don't have to wait

One moment more!

The forcefield around them expanded, causing the monster and its followers to step back, screeching as the light burned its skin. Lotor helped his mother to her feet as the echoing of the lion's voices surrounded them like a dome of protection. Trails of quintessence swirled over their heads like trails of stardust. They spun together to create an image in the air. These were moments of the past. Each paladin, Lotor and Honerva recognized these moments. Pidge saw herself and her family before the Kerberos mission, Lance saw his family playing on the beach, followed by moments between himself and both his families, the one still waiting for him on Earth and the one he found in space. Hunk witnessed his family, memories of Shay, meeting Silver Star and teaching her how to cook. Keith and Allura saw their younger selves with their parents, specifically their respected fathers, and another moment where they embraced Ember after she had returned to them. They saw moments between each other and the paladins.

Keith's eyes swelled when he saw the memories of his parents and Kosmo 1, happily living together under the same roof, the same memories he saw while in the Quantum Abyss. Allura couldn't stop herself from brawling like a child when she saw her parents and herself when she was a baby. She hadn't seen her mother's face for so long, it felt like a small but very welcome gift she had never expected.

Lastly, Lotor saw his memories of Venta. The times they made each other smile and their first kiss. Even the moment where he had lost her and all the hardship afterward. It broke his heart to witness these things, but it also allowed him to take a glimpse of the man he once was. It really was such a drastic contrast to how he used to think back then and how he was now. He saw the moment he first met Acxa, Zethrid, and Ezor. They were children, he was helping an injured young cadet but the instructor ordered him to leave him alone. That was the moment he first locked eyes with Acxa. It was the first time he had ever seen kindness in the eyes of another Galra like himself. When he saw her older, even underneath the cold, focused stare he could see flickers of that light fighting to break free. If Lotor had known better then he would have encouraged Acxa to embrace that light, not tuck it away as he did. In a lot of ways, she was a lot stronger than he ever was, and she deserved to embrace her light. As did Zethrid and Ezor.

Honerva witnessed her old life flashing before her. The good and the bad. The mistakes that had led to all of this, as well as the small moments where her subconscious tried to reach out for her husband and child. She and Lotor saw the moment where Honerva, while still Haggar, would hum her lullaby to a sleeping Lotor. Her heart swelled at the sight of his tiny smile. Not even the darkness could make her truly forget the love she carried for her son.

Everything was so overwhelming the paladins didn't think they would have the strength to stay standing up. The lions' physical forms had disappeared, transforming into colorful stars that spun around the paladins, leaving behind a colorful trail before converging into one bright white star. Within it, they saw a shape. The face of a creature which would have inspired fear, but now inspired peace and courage. The last time Honerva saw that face it stared at her with anger and sorrow, now all she could see was a love she had taken for granted. It was trying to warn her, to save her, but she didn't listen. She wasn't going to ignore that voice any longer, especially not while it was right here, right now protecting her from the shadows that had plagued her for far too long.

The sight overwhelmed the heroes with such emotion they didn't know what to do with it. They didn't know if they wanted to cry with joy, weep with pain or laugh in relief. So many emotions spun and twirled around them like the trails of quintessence. The power surrounding them was unlike anything they had ever experienced, it was powerful, frightening and new, yet they felt it in their hearts that fear was not needed here. The only ones who felt fear, ironically enough, were the shadow creatures. It was clear to see now that this place, this domain was not of the shadows. This was the Lions' domain and the heroes were welcome here.

White Lion:

Come my children, homeward bound

Paladins, Lotor, Honerva:

I am found!

The star dispersed, transforming once again into the five lions. They ran on air around the paladins, including Lotor and Honerva, lifting them into the air as the quintessence spun around them. The power didn't frighten them for it was not a power that would corrupt them, so long as the lions remained by their side. The energy reached Honerva's clothing, changing from the witching cloak into the clothing she wore as Honerva, queen of Daibazaal. Her hair was styled upwards into a bun, though she clearly looked much older than before her complexion was brighter and happier, making her appear far younger than she really was.

Lions: Show yourself

Step out of the shadows

Throw yourself

Into something new

This is the love you've been searching for

Heroes: All of my life!

(Lions: All of your life)

Heroes: Oh, show Yourself

Let them see who You are!

Lions: (Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah)

Heroes: You are

Lions: (Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah)

Heroes: Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah

Lions: (Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah)

Heroes and Lions: Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah

The shadow creature crawled back as the energy took on a new form. The lions took on the shape of Voltron, but rather than it being made of metal, it was made entirely of the energy from the quintessence field, and powered by the the roars of the lions themselves alongside the love they shared with their paladins. Each one, Lotor and Honerva included, were represented by a glowing light of color forming the V symbol on its chest. The shadow creatures tried latching onto the new spiritual form of Voltron, but when they made contact their bodies burned into ashes.

"NO!" The shadow creature roared and pushed Voltron back, his claws grabbing Voltron's wrists. The purifying light burned the beasts palms but he kept going regardless of the pain.

"YOU WILL NOT DEFEAT ME AGAIN! THE UNIVERSE IS MINE TO COMMAND!"

"It will never be yours. You have no power here."

The shadow creature stopped his struggling... only when Voltron's energy sword pierced right through his body. The beast stared back at Voltron with a look of sheer terror in its golden eyes. When Voltron pulled out the sword the creature stood there, still like a statue. A light bursted from its wound, followed by more bursts of light in every part of its body. His agonizing screams echoed throughout the universe before disappearing into the void.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

(~)

The battle outside the rift continued on. The rebels, Galra fighters, Blades and Longmas fought hard as long as they could but the amount of shadow creatures had multiplied since the paladins disappeared into the portal. Acxa led the other Galra from her ship alongside Zethrid and Ezor. She was grateful to have had reinforcements, and still in awe that there were Galra actually willing to help them, but logically speaking they couldn't keep this up forever and Voltron had disappeared to parts unknown, along with the shadow monster.

Coran tried desperately to get a read on Voltron's energy signature but came out empty. Shiro had long since rejoined the others inside the castle, accompanied by Nebula and the kids. The creatures climbed onto the Castle Ship, shaking it and trying to eat away at its surface. Just when it seemed all hope was lost the portals which the monsters had escaped from started to glow and expand like an explosion. A massive shockwave burst and stretched on. It left the heroes unscarred but the shadow creatures weren't so lucky. All at once they burst into ashes once the shockwave came into contact with them.

Another shockwave came but rather than sounding like an explosion it sounded like a melodic tune. Streams of quintessence came flying out of the portals like something straight out of a dream. It spun above the Galra and Rebels ships within the atmosphere of the planet, creating a dome-like protection. The ships slowly lowered, allowing Acxa, Zethrid and Ezor to exit and land safely on the ground with the others. Zethrid and Ezor helped the injured to the ships while Coran landed the castle ship. The longma children assisted their tired and or injured kin, while Shiro took Romelle's hand, guiding her through the sea of people. Xian was perched on her shoulder while the mice rode on Shiro's shoulder. The portals converged into one and from that single opening emerged five glowing lights. As they came closer they were revealed to be the Voltron Lions, now in a new spiritual form that made them look like real lions. On their backs rode the paladins. Lotor rode with Keith on Black while Honerva rode on Blue with Allura. The lions descended, trails of energy sprouting from their furs almost like wings. The lions were much, much larger now than they were before, and far more radiant with V shaped markings on their chests and ankles.

Matt exited his rebel ship alongside Rolo, Nyma and Bezeer, and he ran excitedly when he saw his sister landing on a glowing green spirit lion. Once the paladins dismounted their lions Krolia ran to her son, wrapping her arms around him in the most bone crushing hug she could give. Keith hugged her right back and Coran, with tears of relief, embraced the young princess. Shiro laughed in relief and wrapped his arm around both Keith and Allura. The rest of the paladins joined in, the mice jumping from Shiro's shoulder onto Allura's showering her with tiny little kisses. Pidge hugged Shiro's torso and he ruffled her hair. She had become so much like her father and brother. Brave, smart, and determined. When Pidge saw Matt she leaped into his arms. Matt fell to his knees, hugging his baby sister, accompanied by Aura, who the two simply opened their arms to welcome her into the familial embrace. Pidge kissed her longma friend on the head, saying how proud she was of her.

Lance watched the scene with tears in his eyes, which he wiped with his palm. Matt looked up at his sister's boyfriend and gave him a grateful nod. Lance was then tackled to the ground when Blaze jumped onto him, crying like crazy.

"You're alive! I can't believe it, you're alive!" Blaze bawled, hugging his paladin with his wings. Lance hugged him back, rubbing Blaze's back like he used to do for his niece and nephew whenever they felt sad.

"I love you too, little buddy."

Silver Star did the same tackle to Hunk, and the two friends reunited with a great big bear hug, never wanting to let go. Ember was once again found in the arms of her parents. Kosmo joined her, then started licking Keith's face. He spit out some of the dog drool from his mouth.

"Gah! That got in my mouth!" Keith wiped his mouth with his wrist then saw Romelle standing before him. Though she didn't say anything he read the relief on her face. At the same time, the two friends opened their arms and hugged one another. After everything Romelle had been through it must have meant the world to her to see her new friends alive and well.

Keith took Allura's hand and placed it over Romelle's. The blind Altean bowed her head, but instead received a surprise hug from Allura. Romelle let out a small chuckle and hugged the princess back. She might still be insistent on treating Allura like the royal she was, but all Allura cared about was for Romelle to see her as more than just a crown. She wanted her to see her as a fellow Altean. As a friend because, more than a queen, friends and family were what Romelle needed most right now. The same went for the rest of the Alteans back at the Colony.

"Is it over?" Romelle asked.

Allura nodded, "Yes. It's finally over. Our people can be free again."

Romelle couldn't contain her excitement, she wasn't normally a woman who acted on rash impulse but this one time she did. She hugged the princess back, this time initiating the act rather than the other way around. Allura was more than happy to return the gesture.

Seeing Romelle smile brought back memories for Shiro. That wasn't just a smile of happiness, it was a smile of release. He could see the burdens on her back slipping right off, bit by bit. The paladins had offered Shiro that peace once, and now they were giving it to Romelle, and just like with himself, it was working wonders on her.

Shiro then felt someone staring at him. Turning around he felt every part of his body turn to stone. He couldn't move, he wasn't even sure if he remembered how to breathe. Standing before him, smiling and purring warmly, was the Black Lion. Even without the metal armor Shiro recognized her. She approached Shiro, her movements silent and elegant that could put even the most skillful of dancers to shame. She shifted to where his robotic arm once was. Black leaned in and nuzzled Shiro's cheek. Tears escaped before he could stop them. With his one arm he held the lion close, soaking in the feel of her fur against his face.

"Thank you." Shiro whispered. "Thank you."

He was thanking her for so much more than just allowing him to be her paladin. He thanked her for her protection, for her guidance, for her patience, and for her wisdom. But most of all, he thanked her for keeping Keith and the others safe, and for giving him the wisdom she had given Shiro. Paladin or no, she held a special place in Shiro's heart, and he in hers. If there had even been a flicker of doubt after his time as her champion had passed, it was gone in less than a second.

Everyone else was either out of their ships or watching from them at the events taking place below. Acxa made her way through the crowd of people only to stop when she saw Lotor, helping his mother to mount off of the Blue lion's back. She could hardly believe what she was seeing. Spiritual versions of the Voltron lions, standing before them, but most of all, Haggar was no longer Haggar. Even with her skin returned to its natural shade and her eyes no longer glowing this was not the same pale, sickly woman who revealed herself as Lotor's mother.

No, this woman had a soul. She was alive, and she was holding her son with a love Acxa had lost long ago. She reached into her pocket to pull out her father's stone. Clenching it tightly she could feel his presence. Lotor noticed Acxa from the corner of his eyes. For a moment, their gazes locked as they stood still facing the other, unsure on what to do next.

After witnessing his memories in the quintessence field, Lotor felt immense guilt of what he had made her into over the years. Now that light she carried was no longer hidden but out in the open, just like it was on the day they first met. He noticed the stone in her palm and he smiled. She always carried that stone around with her, no doubt it was precious to her. Good. She should keep it out. That stone was a symbol of who she truly was, and for that Lotor was proud of her.

He finally amped up the courage to approach her. Acxa wasn't entirely sure how to behave around Lotor now. She was no longer his second-in-command, no longer his general, the last real interaction they had was when Acxa attempted to comfort Lotor after he had to saw goodbye to the soul of his father. She wasn't sure then if they would survive all of this, but now... she wasn't sure what to do. Should she still consider him her boss? An ally? An acquaintance? A friend? This was all so new to her. Would it even be wise to have anything to do with him at this point, given what they had pushed each other to do? What they allowed each other to become?

Acxa didn't want to slip back into the person she thought she had to become to survive in the Empire. If she gave Lotor the benefit of the doubt would she be strong enough to resist going back into that old life?"

Acxa felt someone touch her shoulder. It was Ezor. The young half-blood nodded her head. Zethrid appeared beside Acxa as well. She nodded too. Acxa swallowed a lump she didn't know she was holding and walked up to Lotor. She had made up her mind. Even if they hadn't been the best influences on each other at the start, she owed it to herself to at least try to put their complicated history to rest. Then then did she believe she could truly move on.

Ezor and Zethrid believed in her, they always had the utmost faith that she could move past her past just as she inspired them to do so. That she could become the kind, strong hearted person her father had always believed she could be, the person she wanted to be. How could she let them and herself down by running away now?

Acxa stood before Lotor, nodding her head gently as to allow him to speak his mind. To say the air around them was awkward was an understatement though.

"I don't believe I've properly apologized." Lotor began. When Acxa didn't speak he saw it as a sign that he was allowed to continue. "Acxa, when I recruited you I knew I could trust you. We shared a similar pain and I believed that meant you would see things the way I did. Though, despite my intentions, my actions did more harm than good. I taught you to channel your anger and grief into a form of motivation. But I see now that carrying that hatred in your heart doesn't give you strength. It drains you and shifts you into the very thing that you swore never to become. I've spent years trying to snuff out that small light that still lingered inside of me and I was doing the same to you, Zethrid and Ezor. I was wrong. You have honor and kindness deep within you. I never should have tried to make you hide it and for that I am deeply, deeply sorry."

Acxa was stunned. She couldn't think of the words to say. The man she knew was gone. Long gone. This wasn't the Lotor she had known for years, this was the boy she had briefly met, now a grown man. It was like meeting him all over again for the first time. She felt something in her chest, something she hadn't felt since her parents were alive, since when she was a child.

With his apology, Lotor had released Acxa from the woman she had forced herself to become. No longer was she his general, no longer an instrument of revenge.

She was Acxa again.

She was free.

And with this newfound freedom she knew what she wanted to do with it. Acxa took a step closer to Lotor and, to his absolute surprise...she hugged him. She felt his body stiffen for a moment before melting into the embrace, indicating that this was not the first time he had been hugged in the time they had been apart. After a couple of seconds she felt his arms around her and she smiled against his chest. Her eyes prickled and the tears penetrated her closed eyelids.

"I forgive you." She said. Just as he had freed her, she chose to free him. She forgave him for everything. For the killing, for the lies, for the secrets, she forgave him for all of it. She wanted to start fresh with her new life, and to her relief and delight Lotor wanted the same thing. To change and atone for the mistakes of the past and open the doors for a better future. And better versions of themselves.

They had both been trapped in a prison of their own making, allowing the hatred around them to infect their hearts and they had spread that same hatred to each other and many others. No doubt the guilt of these mistakes would haunt them for a long time but if Acxa's father believed in second chances then so would she. Best of all, this was a journey neither had to take alone. She wanted Lotor to be part of her new life now that they both had changed so much. It was a small hope but she felt the need to nurture it, hoping he felt the same.

Ezor, being overwhelmed by all the emotion, joined Acxa in hugging her former boss. She had to admit, she liked Lotor a lot better this way. Seeing that startled look on his face when Acxa hugged him was, admittedly, kind of adorable. He was like a shy little kid again. Zethrid groaned. Apparently hugging was going to be a frequent thing now. She wasn't entirely sure if she liked it but she also hated being left out. She decided 'what the heck' and joined in. Lotor relaxed into their embrace, all awkwardness fading away. He knew immediately that he much preferred having these three ladies as his friends rather than his employees.

They each had their own strengths and weaknesses, much like the paladins, but he had only gotten to know the aspects about them which had been shaped by the Empire, and by his own choices. Now he had the opportunity to really get to know them for who they could have been. Free from hatred, and free from oppression.

Keith and Allura were beaming with pride as they watched Lotor making amends with his former generals. Acxa looked so happy, when she smiled Allura saw her father, Regris in her. As for Honerva, she too was glowing with pride and joy for her son. He had come a long way. Much farther than she ever did. Words could not express her gratitude, as well as her grief over her actions.

Allura took the initiative and approached the elder Altean woman. Honerva looked back at the princess but quickly turned away. She didn't think she deserved to look at Alfor's daughter in the eye.

"I am so ashamed. All of this happened because of me."

"You don't have to be afraid anymore, Honerva." Allura said as she held the woman's hand in her own, lifting up her chin for better eye contact. Honerva saw Alfor reflected in his daughter's eyes. "You were given a second chance. A chance to begin a new story for yourself and your son."

"How can I? I can never erase what I did."

"It's not about erasing the past, it's about learning from it. I know moving on isn't easy. It hurts and the memories will always hurt, but the past doesn't need to define who you become. You use those experiences to remind yourself why you want to be better."

"Each memory is a lesson." Keith said, placing his hand around his wife, "Each lesson a motivation. A wise friend taught us that." He noticed the way Acxa was staring at him. Those were her father's words, and he was using them to help Honerva. Acxa sucked in her lips, tasting the salt of her tears. Her father's legacy had lived on through his actions. She never felt closer to him.

Honerva wiped her tears. "I can see why Lotor grew so fond of you all. All his life he's been looked at as a half-breed reject, even by his own family. But you looked at him and saw a good person. Which ultimately made him want to be one."

Romelle listened to Honerva's words and, suddenly, it all made sense. Why the adoration of the Alteans didn't do much to sway Lotor to a better path. Though he did feel regret over hurting them, even if it didn't stop him from using them at one point for his own benefit, they never treated him like a friend. They treated him like this righteous and flawless king. They placed him on a pedestal and, while maybe that was what Lotor thought he wanted, it wasn't what he really needed. He didn't need more followers or more enemies, he needed people who saw him for who he really was and who he could be. The paladins were the only ones who managed to do that, and from the looks of it, it worked.

This Lotor wasn't the king Romelle had grown to adore and later despise. This was a man who was lost in darkness and he dragged others with him. He was even more blind than she was. Now, he wanted to move out of the darkness and make amends. A stubborn part of herself wanted to stay mad but, after everything that had happened and listening to his words and the words of his mother and the princess... maybe it was time for her to finally let go. The past couldn't be changed, but one could indeed learn from it.

The light from the portal started glowing again, causing everyone to look up. What else could be emerging from the opening? From the looks of it, they weren't shadow creatures but something else. A wave of white energy, like fragments of snow came out of the opening and fell onto the surface of the Kral Zera's arena in a silent wave of energy which swirled in the air. The particles then spun together to form a shape.

The lions stood before the mysterious shape, which took on the form of a human body. More specifically, the form of a knight with silver and gold armor which shined like the rays of the sun. A cape made entirely out of quintessence particles flowed behind it.

The form was taller than the Galra and rebels, but despite its size it gave off an air of tranquility rather than intimidation. Though it had the body of a man, it's face was that of a white lion with a thick, luxurious mane and eyes made of pure gold. The five lions bowed before the mystical being.

Allura and Honerva immediately recognized it's face. It was the face of the White lion. The same White lion she saw in Oriande, the same one from those carvings on the walls. Though Romelle couldn't see it with her eyes she felt the being's presence. In her mind's eye she could sense where he stood, how tall and powerful he was. Her first instinct was to get on her knees and bow. Seeing this inspired many of the other Galra to bow as well. The blades followed, then the longmas. The rebels weren't entirely sure what was happening or why they were bowing but they decided to go along with it. Seeing everyone else bowing prompted Shiro, Coran and Krolia to bow as well. The paladins shared a look and followed everyone's example. Lotor and Honerva were the last ones, the latter keeping her hands close to her chest to steady her rapid heartbeat.

The White Lion stood before the paladins. When it spoke it was as if the entire universe, the stars and the planets, all stopped to listen.

"You have done well, my Paladins." The White Lion said. The paladins were silent. Nobody dared to say a word. What could one say in the presence of someone so... ethereal? A chuckle came out of the White Lion's mouth which made Keith curious enough to look up. He felt small kneeling before Him, but to his surprise the White Lion kneeled down as well, meeting the boy halfway.

"You need not fear me. Everyone, rise." His voice boomed yet it did not make the group shake and tremble as a sound like his voice would do. Everyone got back up. The White Lion offered Allura his hand and she took it without question. She looked into the Lion's eyes and the corners of his mouth turned upwards. His smile was beautiful.

"Do you remember me, child?"

Tears swelled in Allura's eyes and she nodded. "You were there on Oriande. You're the voice we heard inside the rift. You're the White Lion. The one from the carvings."

"Yes. Centuries ago I left a piece of my power on Oriande. A gift I granted your ancestors. For whenever they felt lost they could return and remember who they were. Even in your grief you remembered who you were. You chose to live for love rather than death." The White Lion cupped Allura's cheek with his hand. She leaned into his fatherly touch. "Your family and your people are smiling down upon you, Princess. You have made them all very proud."

The White Lion then took Keith's hand and intertwined it with Allura's. He wiped his wife's tears with his thumb and they pressed their foreheads together. The war was finally over, the monsters had been defeated and they were still here, together. Everything they had fought for came true. It was a hard journey, difficult and painful, but it was all worth it.

"My children were wise to choose you five as their paladins."

Keith blinked. "Wait, children?"

On cue, the five lions circled around the White Lion, who fell to his knees and embraced each and every one. Black nuzzled her forehead against the White Lion.

"Father," she said. "We have missed you."

"I have missed you, too."

The paladins gasped. They knew the lions had a connection to the White Lion from what they had seen in the rift, but they weren't ready for... this.

"It is time you knew the whole truth." The White Lion said, sensing the questions buzzing around in their minds. "The place which you have dubbed the quintessence field, or the rift, is my home. The source of time, of space, of all creation." The White Lion waved His hand and a trail of quintessence spun around in it before transforming into a star. "My life force pulses through each reality like blood through the body, and I, the heart, breathes life into each one. It is why each and every one of you has a unique energy signature. Because each and every one of you was created by just a tiny speck of this energy."

To prove his point the White lion blew into the tiny star on his palm and in a matter of seconds it transformed into a tiny little butterfly with white wings and blue patterns. It fluttered around Allura before landing delicately on her palm for a few seconds then flew away. Pidge remembered what the Olkari had told her long ago. That we were all made from the same cosmic dust. It was true, and that comic dust came from Him. It was beyond remarkable. Scientists and scholars spent years trying to decipher the mystery of life, and here it was being shown before her very eyes. It was a humbling experience, a moment Pidge would keep in her heart and in her mind forever.

"But there are those who possess a little bit more than just a speck. The Lions were made entirely out of quintessence. They are beings of pure energy rather than of flesh and blood."

"By our father's side, we have watched over every reality and we did our work dutifully." The Black Lion explained.

"But not all of us were content with serving our Father." Red said with a subtle growl.

"Some chose to seize power over Him." Yellow said with much sorrow in his voice. "To control creation rather than to protect and to live alongside it."

"These creatures, once of light, became beings of darkness." Blue explained, "And thus, a war broke out within our home."

"It lasted many years, but ultimately the shadow creatures were subdued and imprisoned." Green said, "Sadly, the war did not leave our home unscarred."

"Fragments of wild quintessence escaped through gateways that were never meant to be opened." Black said, "While we use this power for the good of creation, it is far too much for mortal hands."

"Like when you overeat and then you explode." Yellow said with a teasing smirk. Hunk laughed. Who knew his lion had a sense of humor too. Still, all joking aside, his allegory made perfect sense.

Though Honerva did not laugh. She knew better than anyone how alluring the idea of infinite power over time and space could be. Knowing everything and having everything was, tragically, a subconscious desire many individuals possessed, even if they would claim it was for selfless purposes.

Those were only shortcuts. Escapism born out of fear of not having control over what would happen. The power she had witnessed was great, but it would probably be wise to leave it in the hands of those who knew how to wield it. If only she had known that long ago, none of this would have happened.

"The fragments of quintessence eventually solidified, transforming into comets which were linked to the rift." Black continued.

"That's how Voltron was able to travel through realities." Pidge said.

"Yes." Green said, "They were left adrift across various realities. Though many of those fragments had been collected over the years and returned home, some remained lost."

"Some fragments even had a few of our kind imprisoned within them. A tragic side effect after the war had ended." Red said, "We were but a few of those lost ones. Locked in tangible forms and thus unable to return home."

Lance reached out his hand and rubbed Red's nose in comfort. It must have been so difficult for him to be so far away from home all because a few bad seeds decided to cause trouble. There was nothing worse than being separated from one's family.

"If those comets made contact with any solid surface it could tear open a gateway into our world." Blue said, "In the wrong hands it could be catastrophic."

"That's how the rift on Daibazaal was formed." Keith said. "Because the comet had the five of you inside it."

"Unfortunately, the tear was enough to give the rift creatures a small window from their imprisoned realm." Black said with narrowed eyes. "They could not escape on their own, hence why they needed someone to use as a vessel and to expand the size of the opening which would weaken the hold the rift had on them, releasing them into all realities. Being too creatures of the rift they could not be destroyed and still possess wills of their own. In our weakened state there was very little we could do to stop them."

"That is, until your father found a way." Blue said fondly, making the princess smile. "We looked into his heart and saw a champion. We saw the same qualities in the paladins of old."

"Our dear friends." Green said fondly. She remembered her first paladin all too well. "The moment we connected we knew exactly how this reality would be safe. Though our physical forms also meant some limitations to our power at the time it was enough for us to grant the original paladins what they needed the most."

"We granted them the greatest gift we could bestow." Black said, "We gave them the gift of Voltron, which translated in your tongue means; Agape."

"Agape?" Lance repeated.

"Unconditional love." Shiro said, translating the word for the young paladin. Agape was the Greek term for the most selfless love there ever was. A love that goes beyond just emotions, and it seeks the best in others even if they don't see the best in themselves.

Black nodded her head, "Yes, Shiro. Everything created by the hands of our father was made out of love. Just as our bond with the paladins of old, and the six of you, was born out of love. For it was your love for one another that made you such a formidable foe to the shadows, and they knew this. That is why they went after it all those years ago."

"Me." Honerva spoke after being silent throughout the entire thing. "They came after me. I tore our friendship apart. My actions led to my husband betraying our friends. It's what led to all of this." Lotor held his mother close. She melted into her son's embrace but it did not shake away the shame she felt. "I am so sorry. I deserve any punishment you see fit."

Hearing this, Lotor got down on his knees before the White Lion. "Please, I am aware of the crimes my mother has committed, but please spare her. I will take her punishment."

"Lotor, please no." Honerva pleaded. "This is my mistake, I should be the one—"

"I too am guilty." Lotor said, both to his mother and the White Lion. "Please. My mother has suffered enough."

The White Lion kneeled before Lotor and lifted his chin up to look at him. "There is no greater love than he who is willing to lay down his life for his friends. You have found Voltron, my boy. You are free."

The White Lion helped Lotor back to his feet then turned to his mother. "Give me your hand." She did as he asked and placed her hands in his. Honerva couldn't stop herself from crying even if she wanted to. She felt the White Lion's hand clean her tears. "You have been given a second chance at life, Honerva. All I request of you is you make the most of it. Never take your blessings for granted or risk losing them again. Do you understand?"

Honerva nodded, unable to speak.

"Then dry your tears. Your suffering is over." The White Lion turned her towards her son. Her baby boy with arms open wide, ready to welcome her. It was more than Honerva could have ever asked for. The witch was dead, now she could begin a new life. And it started when she hugged her son, pouring out all the love she felt for him in this embrace. He kissed her forehead and she cleaned his tears.

"When King Alfor hid the lions away and Zarkon took control this reality fell into darkness. Time had regarded Voltron as a myth. This world has been scarred by the hands of evil. Plagued and lost. Many lives were lost. Families torn apart. Children left to grow without the loving embrace of a mother or father. Each and every one of you had felt broken one way or another... but where you see ugliness I see beauty. Where you see tragedy I see the chance for new life to flourish. Where you see a villain, I see a hero waiting to be reborn. What my children see is the same as I, for we are one. I gave you the gift of Voltron not only as a weapon to defeat evil, but so that you may learn what it truly means to experience real love."

"Love that suffers long." Black said, looking at Keith and Shiro.

"Love that is kind." Blue said to Allura.

"Love that that does not envy and is not proud." Red said to Lance.

"Love that does not dishonor or seek for itself." Green said to Pidge.

"Love that is not easily angered." Yellow said to Hunk.

"Love that rejoices in truth. That does not delight in evil." Black said, looking over at Lotor, Honerva, Acxa, Zethrid and Ezor.

"Love that protects?. Trusts, hopes, endures all things." The White Lion said. "It was this love which lifted you. Pushed you through the darkness, and brought you home. This was the purpose for which the Lions remained with you and chose you. It was about more than ending the war, it was about restoring what had been fractured. To mend the bond torn by pride. You paladins have done just that, with every heart you have touched. Including each other's. We paved the pathway for you, but it was your choice whether or not to follow it. Love is given freely, never forced. And you did. You gave and it was returned to you. There is no greater joy."

The paladins, along with Coran, Krolia, Romelle, Matt, the longmas, Lotor, Honerva, and the former generals, huddled together. The bond between the paladins had been broken once long ago, but today, due to the sacrifices of the heroes, it was restored. This was Voltron's true mission all along. Not only were they meant to bridge together as a team to fight against a common enemy, but to bridge together the relationship between the Galra and the rest of the universe. To think, this all started when a half Galra orphan and a lost Altean princess fell in love, a love which gave five young pilots something to fight for, which in turn ignited a powerful friendship, and it was that friendship which inspired an entire Coalition and reunited Zarkon's wife and son.

Now this was a love story.

There was not a single dry eye all around. Galra, who were born and raised into a civilization of war and death, were witnessing first hand the greatest miracle their world would ever know. They witnessed the arrival of a celestial being, who saved them from creatures of darkness, who had been secretly using them as pawns for their own gain. Their very reality had been shaken, none of the other Galra who couldn't be present today would believe them. Thankfully, they had a whole number of witnesses.

The rebels, Blades and the paladins were shocked to hear the clanging sound of weapons being thrown into a pile on the floor. Laser guns, scythes, swords, knives, everything the Galra had at their disposal with the intent to kill one another for the throne was thrown aside. What need did they have to fight now? The war was over, Zarkon was gone, no doubt things would be different from now on. This search for quintessence was futile, if what happened to Haggar was any indication, so there was no point to it anymore. Plus, they would rather not risk the possibility of facing the wrath of another cosmic battle like this ever again.

After ten thousand years, the Galra finally laid down their weapons. Hunk smiled seeing the uncle and nephew embrace, and Silver Star saw her musical Galra friends hugging one another. Even Dayak smiled warmly at Lotor. She had never been more proud of him.

"So, what happens now?" Hunk asked.

"Now, we must go." Yellow said. The paladins gasped.

"Go? What do you mean?" Keith said.

"Like we said, the shadow creatures can not be entirely destroyed. And this battle created a dangerously large tear between our worlds, one which could increase their chances of escaping again To the point not even we, in our mechanical forms would be able to stop." Blue said.

"The only way to ensure your reality's safety is if we use our energy to close the gateway for good." Red said, "Every remaining fragment from the comet's ore must be returned to its place of origin."

"But, that means..." Keith began, but was unable to finish. His hands trembled.

"It means... our mission here is complete." Black said, unable to hide the grief in her voice as she looked at Keith with tearful eyes.

Every fragment of the comet needed to be returned to the rift in order for things to be set right again. Which meant, tragically, this was where the paladins and their Lions would go their separate ways.

Shiro remembered that one day he suggested the possibility of Voltron no longer being needed after the war was over. Looking back he wanted to punch himself in the face so hard. Of course the universe needed Voltron, it always did. Now that he knew what Voltron actually meant it would be needed now more than ever.

"But... but what if we need you again?" Hunk said, unable to fight back the desperation he was feeling. "What will we do without you?"

"We will always be watching you." Yellow said as he nuzzled Hunk's cheek. "Voltron will never truly be gone, so long as you keep it in your heart. And you, brave and noble Hunk, have a heart as big as they come."

Hunk held onto Yellow for as long as he could. Saying goodbye to his friend was something he had hoped he would never have to do. Of all the things Hunk knew he would miss from his adventures in space, it was the bond he had forged with his lion. A bond that didn't need that many words to showcase how strong it was. He felt it every time he flew on him. Those memories he would carry in his heart until the day he died.

Pidge was a complete wreck. Her tears were like waterfalls and she had to wipe the snot from her nose more than once, which was embarrassing but she saw Lance and even Hunk do the same thing earlier and everyone else was an emotional wreck so it really shouldn't have been such a surprise. Her lion stood right in front of her and Pidge, unable to restrain herself, clung onto Green her fingers burned at how tightly she clenched to her emerald studded fur.

"I can't tell you how much it warms my heart to see you now, Katie. You have blossomed into the woman I always knew you would be. The infinite abilities of your mind dwarf the smallness of your size, but never forget it is the size of the love your heart carries which will always see you through, even if you don't have all the answers. Never stop being curious and fearless."

"I'm really gonna miss you." Pidge wept, crying into her lion's fur. "Just let me hold you a bit longer. Please." Green was more than happy to grant her this wish. She wrapped her paw around her paladin, allowing her to cherish the time they had left together.

"Red, there—isn't there another way?"

Red's eyes softened as he placed his paw on Lance's shoulder. "This is the only way to keep your world from being harmed by the shadow creatures again. I know it hurts but I have complete faith in you, my boy."

"It won't be the same without you." Lance cried as he hugged Red.

"You will be alright, Lance. You have grown into a strong, confident paladin just like I always knew you would. You were always a hero in my eyes, even before Blue bestowed you upon me. You were always enough, especially to me."

Allura wasn't sure if she had anymore tears to cry, but when she looked into Blue's eyes she knew she was wrong. How many goodbyes did she have to say until it would stop hurting? Who was she kidding? Goodbyes would always hurt, no matter what. Many speak of how love can heal wounds, but often times they fail to mention how much it hurts when that loved one is gone. Even so, the hurt was evident of just how true that love really was. Like the White Lion said, real love is long suffering, it hopes and preserves. Because of this, Allura was willing to accept this goodbye, and the heartache that came with it until she could look back on this moment and feel a mixture of sadness as well as joy. The joy of having known Blue and for all she had done for her and her family.

"Blue, I can't begin to thank you for all you have given me."

"I know you were afraid to become a mother at first, and I can't promise it will be easy, but I can assure you that you are more than ready. You have the strength and the compassion needed to care for your family and your people. I couldn't be prouder."

Allura held her lion close as the two hugged for one final time Black approached Keith and Shiro. "Being a leader is never easy. Most either take it for granted or do not comprehend the weight of such responsibility. But you two exemplify what true leadership means. Shiro, you have always had a focused mind and a strong will, and you've learned to lean on your team when you can't carry the weight of your burdens. Keith, your empathy and desire to understand others is matched only by your steadfast duty to a noble cause. Patience and action. Wisdom and strength. Diligence and kindness. True leaders... true brothers."

"I'll never forget you." Shiro said as he hugged her.

"And I will never forget you, my valiant soldier."

The stars on Black's fur floated up and spun around Shiro, specifically around the area where his robotic arm was missing. The two brothers watched in awe as bits of metal manifested out of thin air, forming together to create a new prophetic limb, near identical to the one he had lost, minus the monstrous mutation. Shiro never thought he would be so happy as to see his robotic arm again, no longer a symbol of the torture he went through as a gladiator, but a reminder of where he started and where he was now. He tried to get the arm to light up but it didn't respond. In fact, he noticed there were a few differences. The metal was no longer gray but a shiny silver making it appear almost white.

"It won't work the same way it did before," said Black, "But I believe Pidge will have plenty of fun upgrading it to your liking. Preferably something a little less...grey." She chuckled along with Shiro. He hugged her again, this time using both arms. Then it was Keith's turn.

"Thank you, Black. For helping me see things from a different perspective. Including myself."

Black nuzzled against her young paladin and he buried his face in her fur. Black offered her paw to Shiro, inviting him to join for one more hug.

"We love you."

"I love you, too."

The paladins savored every second, engraved every tiny detail to memory from the individual strands of fur to the patterns around their eyes and paws. With a weight far too heavy to even describe the paladins released their lions one last time. But before they did, there were a couple more goodbyes that needed to be said. Blue walked up to Lance after he said his last farewell to Red. Blue smiled lovingly at her little paladin. He had grown so much since she first met him. He changed from a cocky, dreamy-eyed lad into a humble and courageous man of action.

"Lance, my precious boy. I'm sorry it hurt when I had to give you up, but know that I did it because I knew it would be for your own good. And even then, I have watched you and loved you since. That never stopped."

"I know. Thank you. For choosing me, and for pushing me in the right direction." Lance pressed his forehead against hers while Red walked towards Keith and Allura. He bowed before them.

"It was an honor to be your lion, noble Keith. I must confess, I knew from the start that our time together would be temporary. You had the makings of a true leader, just like King Alfor. I don't think he could have imagined a better man suited to lead by his daughter's side. And princess, you are so much like your father, yet so different. You should know that Alfor never wanted you to be a complete reflection of himself. He wanted you to find your own identity as a leader, and I am thrilled to say that you have. Take good care of each other."

The couple hugged the Red lion. Allura especially had a difficult time letting go. He was her father's lion, his companion. Letting go of him was like letting go of her father all over again.

"His spirit lives within you, Allura." Red whispered. "So long as you remember him, he will never leave you. And neither will I."

"I wish I didn't have to say goodbye."

"One thing you should know about goodbyes, my dear. They rarely last forever." Red licked Allura's face, making her laugh. "There's that smile."

With that, Red pulled away. Allura's hand lingered on his side before slipping off once he was out of arm's reach. Keith held her close, he was her only support now that she felt she was about to crumble to pieces watching Blue, Red and the rest of the lions standing beside the White Lion. He carried the same look of sadness in his eyes as his children did. The goodbyes were as painful for him as they were for them.

"Remember, Paladins. The universe will always need Voltron. And Voltron now lives inside each of you. Whenever you feel lost, look upwards. Even in darkness the stars will always shine."

"And it is from the stars where we shall watch over you." Black said, "Until the end of time."

The paladins and their lions shared one final look. Memories of their times together came and went. These lions had changed their lives in ways they couldn't begin to describe. Though it hurt beyond words to see them leave, they knew this was their way of protecting their home from the shadows. This was their sacrifice for them. This was their act of love. This was their act of Voltron.

The White Lion's form changed, from a man with a lion's head into the shape of an actual lion. Accompanied by his children they ran on a trail of quintessence towards the portal as the protective dome around the planet separated into particles, returning back to its original source. Wild, powerful, and free. Once they entered the gateway, their collective roar booming across space, creating yet another shockwave and the light from the portal burst.

The portal was sealed for good. The Lions were nowhere in sight, but even if they could not see them the paladins saw five individually colored stars twinkling in the distance. They felt their friend's presence. The Lions were home, but they would never leave their paladins.

Their bond was forever.

*(~)*

Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert.

~Isaiah 43:19

*(~)*

Summary for next chapter:

The ten thousand year old war is finally over and now it's up to the paladins to pick up the pieces and lead the Galra and Alteans into a brighter tomorrow.

(~)

Did anybody else cry? Good! Now you know how I felt while writing this whole thing! As if the last one didn't do it enough already. These next chapters are gonna be the death of me, I swear. If anybody is taken to the emergency room due to an overload of emotions I am not responsible for that. You have been warned.

As the beginning of the chapter stated, my beloved cat Salem, who I've had for almost twenty years, passed away not too long ago. I wrote down this chapter beforehand and looking over it now it just feels like a fitting way to bid my final farewell to my feline companion.

Like the lions, he will be watching me from the stars. Thank you Salem, you will always be in my heart.