Author's Note:

Hi everyone! Yes, I'm back with something new! This was actually the first fanfic I ever started writing, but Run, Baby, Run ended up being my first published work. I haven't finished writing this story, but a significant portion of it has already been typed up. I wanted to be able to provide you all with some other reading material while I work on writing Run, Baby, Run...So, here is my take on the final chapter of the Sym-Bionic Titan series! Just to note, this is NOT a prequal to RBR; this is its own separate story. I've gone through and cleaned it up a bit from when I first wrote it, but I apologize if I missed anything!

I hope you all like this one as much as you've been enjoying RBR :-D

Sadly, I do not own Sym-Bionic Titan. All credit for this series goes to Mr. Genndy Tartakovsky.

Earth

"Lance, your father wishes to speak with you before you leave for Galaluna." Solomon said from the monitor hanging on the side of the wall in the launch bay.

Lance looked up at the over-head screen and gave a nod to the G3 leader. "Right. Tell him I'll be there in a minute. I just need to make sure Octus has everything under control here."

Solomon nodded in understanding, disconnecting himself from the monitor as Lance turned to walk towards Octus, Ilana, and Kimmy in the launch bay.

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The trio had been on Earth for four years now, and quite a few things had changed. The most important of those changes was that Kimmy had been told of their true identities and mission there.

She and 'Newton' had mended their relationship soon after he was restored to life by G3, and returned home to Sherman. They had held strong all through high school after that, and to Kimmy, the future looked bright. It was on graduation day that everything changed.

A Mutraddi Megabeast had landed not 50' from Sherman High. Lance, Ilana, and Octus had hurried to get away from the crowd as all the occupants of the school gymnasium frantically ran toward the exit, trying desperately to get away.

Kimmy had noticed them slip toward the back of the school, and decided to follow. She had just found them behind the janitor's shed when she saw Lance and Ilana each press a button on their watches. Before she had a chance to say anything to catch their attention, she watched as her two friends transformed into large, impressive looking robots of sorts. She remembered seeing the blue one on the news a few years ago.

Before she could find the words to speak, the golden robot turned its head, and she heard it gasp her name. All three turned, and stared at her. Kimmy opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. Instead, she imagined she must look like a gaping fish.

With a guilty and nervous look on his face, 'Newton' walked over to her, and took her hands in his. He looked into her eyes for a moment, trying to decide what to say. As he heard a loud roar very close by, he finally settled on what took priority in the present moment. He gave her hands a gentle squeeze, saying "I'll explain everything later. I promise."

Kimmy only nodded dumbly as Octus let go of her hands and began walking toward his two comrades. She watched as the familiar visage of Newton disappeared, and, in its place, a highly technologically advanced robot appeared. He called out "Engage: Sym-Bionic Titan. Octus unit, magnify!", and Kimmy watched in stunned wonder as the three robotic units combined to form the now all too familiar sight of the city's protector: Titan.

She stayed, and watched the battle from a safe location in the school. It seemed like hours before it was over, and Titan disappeared once more.

Octus, Ilana, and Lance had found her not ten minutes later, and sat down to explain everything. They started from the beginning, laying everything out in the open for Kimmy to digest. After several hours, and rather reluctant cooperation from Lance, Kimmy was told every detail of their situation.

This incident happened last year, and while the trio thought it would drive her and Octus apart, it actually brought them closer together.

Both Lance and Ilana, to this day, have their concerns about the relationship (for obvious biological reasons), but they can also see that the couple are happy, so they decided long ago to 'Let sleeping dogs lie', so to speak.

After that, all had been peaceful for the four of them for quite a while. They all had begun attending local universities, and life chugged along as it always had...that is, until about a month ago.

The trio had received an encrypted satellite message from the remaining Galalunian soldiers still loyal to the king that the rebellion was still going strong, and growing in strength. The king had been freed from Modula's prison, and they believed it was time to start preparing for the beginning of the end of the war. They had requested the princess's presence for the final battle, as they knew that every single soldier would give everything they had if they knew the princess was behind them during the fight; no matter how exhausted and battered they were. They also made the request because the king had told them that Lance was with her, and they would need his skills when facing General Modula. The king even appeared in the holographic message, requesting that they return as soon as possible. He told them that he knew of Titan's existence, the one piece of information that he hadn't shared with anyone up to that point. He knew that they would need Titan in order to win the war, so he had to put aside his need to keep is beloved daughter safe, and request their assistance on the battlefield. The king left coordinates for them on where to land, and told them that time was short. General Modula was beginning to track them down, and they were running out of places to hide away. So, the trio needed to respond with their answer as quickly as possible.

The three had taken in every piece of information from the message, and deliberated about it for a solid week. They knew that they needed to respond quickly, but they didn't want to rush into a decision, either.

It wasn't that they didn't want to return home, but they knew what would await them when they arrived: a scarred, war-torn planet. Buildings destroyed and laid to ruin, and the corpses of dead comrades and citizens littering the streets; their blood running in rivers along the edges of the road, and staining the ground beneath them.

It was a difficult decision for all of them, but Lance took it especially hard. His sole mission on Earth had been to protect the princess from danger. Now, if they went along with this request, he would be putting her in more danger than even he could possibly imagine, and he was the epitome of angst, despair, and worst-case-scenario. He cared for Ilana deeply; more-so than a brother or protector. He'd developed strong romantic feelings for her over the time that they'd been on Earth. He knew that, because of his and Ilana's very different social standings and positions, these feelings were unacceptable and, according to Galalunian law, illegal. No matter how much he tried to suppress them, however, they continued to resurface. They were probably as close as two people could possibly get, and she was now his best friend. He had opened up to her and told her everything about himself, something he swore he would never do for anyone; and she had likewise shared all of her thoughts, feelings, emotions, and experiences with him. They would share past memories with each-other, and they were each-others most trusted confidants. He loved her whole-heartedly. His entire being protested against putting her in any type of danger.

Not only that, but he had just found out only six months ago that his own father, whom he had thought long dead, was the head of G3. Apparently, when his father had tested the rift gate on that awful night so many years ago, it had transported him to Earth, heavily injured, and Solomon had found him and nursed him back to health. Together, they formed G3; and Lance's father, Edward, began developing Galalunian-level technology. Now, Edward had another fully-functioning rift gate ready for use, along with as many guns, blasters, rifles, pistols, and grenades as they would need for the resistance. He even rebuilt the Manus armor communicators, having them run on the same power source as Octus. Lance had told Edward of how Modula had disabled every soldier's Manus armor and jammed communications, so Edward made sure that these communicators would not succumb to that same fate. When he heard of their decision to return to Galaluna, he made preparations to have the ship loaded with as many weapons and communicators as it could hold, so the resistance would be fully equipped and ready to take on Modula.

Ilana had similar misgivings about the request; the potential consequences of returning weighing heavily on her mind. She knew that if she died, her people would lose all hope of reclaiming Galaluna. She herself was not afraid of death; she had felt guilty for quite some time about leaving her home world during it's time of need, even though she would have most certainly met her end if she had stayed. It was only through Lance and Octus helping her overcome her grief, and feelings of cowardice and weakness from leaving that she came to understand and accept the importance her life held to her people. Now, she would be putting everything on the line in a final attempt to eliminate Modula, once and for all. She longed to see her father and her people again, but she also knew that if they failed, there would be no rift gate to return them to Earth. Her father would be imprisoned once again, and she would most certainly be executed. If that happened, her people would lose any remaining will to fight back.

She also had great concerns for Lance's and Octus's safety. She knew that if they failed to defeat Modula, Octus would most certainly be shut down permanently by the evil traitor, and Lance...She was terrified of what Modula might do to Lance. He had told her all about his history at the academy, so she was well aware of the 'special attention' Modula had paid to him once the full extent of his abilities had started to make themselves known. He had seen talent in Lance as a child, and Lance had intrigued him ever since. She feared that if he fell into Modula's hands now, he would suffer grievous experimentation by the traitor. The knowledge of that was something she could not bare.

Ilana would never admit it to anyone except herself, but during their time on Earth, she had fallen in love with her overprotective and moody bodyguard. He had become her best friend, and he was like family to her. She trusted him more than anyone else, and she felt that he was one of the best men she'd ever known. He was brave, strong, courageous, stubborn, and fiercely loyal to those he felt were deserving; but also sensitive, caring, considerate, compassionate, and kind. The last five qualities only those closest to him were privileged enough to see; those rare few who were able to break down the protective walls he had carefully constructed around his heart all those years ago. His good looks were just an added perk. She cared about him and his safety more than anything else, and she knew that Lance would play a huge role in the plans her father had for defeating Modula. If they were caught, he would probably be imprisoned, tortured, and eventually brutally murdered by Modula's own hands; something Ilana could not and would not ever get over. She was sure that Modula would make her and everyone else watch that particular event without the choice to look away.

She had faith in Lance's abilities as a soldier, but even she knew that he couldn't do everything; he wasn't invincible, despite how he appeared. If Modula were to catch and kill him during this mission, she'd lose the only thing she ever wanted for her future: the one person she could love, count on, and feel safe with without reservation. That thought alone was enough to make her want to stay on earth, away from the dangers that could take away everything she had come to care about...but her love and devotion to her father and people were battling against those fears with equal force. She knew that they needed her, and, as a princess, it was her duty to stand by her people and her king.

Octus was reluctant to return simply because he knew that he would need to leave Kimmy behind. Even though he wasn't human, he had feelings, thoughts, and emotions just like anyone else. He was fully aware that he loved Kimmy, and that she loved him as well. He knew that leaving her would break her heart and hurt him greatly, but he also knew that this day was going to come at some point; he just wasn't ready for it to come this soon.

After sharing their concerns about the request (aside from Lance's and Ilana's romantic concerns about each-other), and thinking about all of the different aspects of their situation and responsibilities, the trio decided that it was their duty to return and help the king and the resistance in any way they could. They couldn't afford to be selfish when their planet needed them, no matter how well-intentioned or valid their reasons were. Since they were key players in the king's plan, they knew that they didn't have a choice but to go back. Otherwise, the plan would fail, and things would get worse again. If they had a shot at taking Modula down, they needed to seize the opportunity before any more lives were lost. So, they put their house in Sherman on the market, quit their jobs, dropped out of school, sold all of their belongings – save for the little snow globe that Lance had bought for Ilana shortly after their arrival on earth – and said their goodbyes to their friends, neighbors, and former teachers from Sherman High.

Lance had his father make a communicator for Solomon in the event that another Mutraddi should come to Earth in search of them. That way, someone that Lance could trust would have the Manus armor for any type of emergency Earth might face.

While Lance was taking care of preparations for departure, Ilana and Octus paid Kimmy a visit. When they first told her, she was devastated; crying and yelling about how Octus couldn't leave her like this. It was painful for Octus and Kimmy to go through – and for Ilana, painful to watch. That pain, however, gave rise to a very unexpected and brave (in Lance's opinion, absolutely crazy) decision on Kimmy's part: she was going with them to Galaluna.

When she first brought the suggestion to them, the trio adamantly refused. They knew what they would be thrown into when they returned, and Kimmy had neither the knowledge nor the skill to survive the coming ordeal that she was volunteering to join. She had a life and bright future on earth, along with family to love and support her. They tried to get her to agree with them, and convince her that it would be best if she stayed on earth.

Their arguments fell on deaf ears.

Their resistance stayed strong for about a week, but afterwards began to crumble. It should be noted, when Kimmy knows what she wants, she does NOT relent until she gets it. By the end of week two, everyone was at their wit's end with her stubbornness and endless nagging, and agreed to let her come. Soon after, Octus began to educate her on exactly what she would need to be prepared to face. At first, it looked as though she might back out, which is what they were all hoping for; but to everyone's surprise, Kimmy had nerves of steel and courage that rivaled Ilana's when the need arose. She began to train herself in first aid, as she couldn't fight and wouldn't be able to learn enough to be effective in battle come their departure time. She decided that she would nurse the wounded men and citizens while the healthy soldiers handled the battles outside.

And so, the trio became a quartet a mere two weeks before their scheduled departure time.

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"Hey Octus, you got everything under control here?", Lance said as he approached his three companions.

Octus turned to face him, "Yes, I believe so. The rocket is fueled and ready for launch. All of the weapons and communicators, as well as the food and first aid supplies, have been loaded as well. How come?"

Lance gave a nod before going to turn around. "My father wanted to talk to me before we go, so if you're all set, I'm gonna go see what he wants." Lance replied before turning and leaving through the hanger door.

The trio gave each-other a quizzical look before Ilana decided to speak up. "I wonder what Edward wants? I thought he already said goodbye to Lance just a couple of hours ago?"

"Perhaps he wishes to give Lance some 'fatherly advice' before he leaves." Octus chimed in. "He won't get the chance again for quite some time"

Ilana hummed, "That could be, though I can't imagine what advice Lance needs at this point." Ilana said, her face turning contemplative.

Kimmy gave Octus a discreet smirk. She knew that Octus was referring to Lance and Ilana's very 'complex' relationship. They were both well aware of the two young adults' affection for each-other, but felt it wasn't their place to say anything; they needed to sort things out on their own.

Octus merely gave a subtle nod back to Kimmy, responding to the smirk and knowing look she shot his way.

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Lance had just arrived at his father's quarters. He looked around the dark room, trying to find the man's figure.

"Dad, you wanted to talk to me?" Lance called out into the bleak, gloomy area.

Edward rose from his chair in the far-left corner, his robotic Manus hand ushering Lance over to him. "Yes, I wanted to discuss something before you left; something personal. I hope you don't mind, but this will be the only real time in the foreseeable future that I can act like your father." Edward said as he gave his son a cheeky grin.

Lance's small smile vanished, and was replaced with a skeptical frown and raised eyebrow. "What kind of personal are we talking about here?"

As soon as the sentence left his mouth, Lance saw the mischievous look in his father's eyes. His face turned from skeptical to defensive, as his mind began to jump to conclusions. "No, we're not talking about her."

Edward gave his son a soft smile before replying, "If I recall correctly, I never mentioned what this little talk was about, son. It's quite interesting that your mind immediately wonders to Ilana, though."

Lance's face took on a slightly red hue, and he suddenly looked down, finding the floor very interesting. He was trying to hide the embarrassment on his face, but to no avail; His father always could see right through him, which both bothered and reassured him. This time though, bothered was the accurate word.

Edward gave a chuckle as he put his still-human hand on his son's shoulder, "I'm sorry son, but you're just too easy for me to read. I am your father, after all. Even though I haven't been a part of your life since you were eight, you're still a lot like me. Thus, I can always tell when something's amiss. Wanna talk about it?" Edward asked with a kind, loving smile. He had noticed for the past several weeks now that his son had been more agitated and withdrawn than usual – particularly when around the princess. It was as if he was trying to detach himself from her. He hated seeing his boy like that, so he wanted to see if he could help before they left for Galaluna.

Lance looked up to meet his father's eyes. Seeing trust and confidence in them, he gave a sigh and proceeded to sit with him to have a little father-son chat; knowing that he'd get honest advice from his own dad. Also, he knew he wouldn't be comfortable having this type of conversation with anyone else.

"Dad, I don't know if I can go back to Galaluna and just act like the four years the three of us have spent together on Earth never happened. Above all, Ilana's become my best friend, and I don't wanna lose that. I don't think she does either...but once we touch solid ground, she's the princess again, and I'm a Corporal in the Galalunian Military. I'm just not sure I can do it. We're family now, all three of us." Lance said, his dark eyes looking stormy from his turbulent thoughts.

Edward knew that wasn't the entirety of what was bothering his son, so he decided to press a little, "And...? I know there's something else, Lance."

Lance looked up slightly, a defeated look on his face. Their eyes met, and in that moment, Lance felt as though his father was looking into his very soul. He knew what his father wanted him to say, but he just wasn't sure he could – he was afraid to.

After a moment of silence, Lance gathered as much courage as he could and spoke, though it came out as a faint whisper, "And...I love her, and that presents a major problem."

Edward examined his son, knowing how much he must be feeling at this moment. He remained quiet, allowing Lance to continue at his own pace. After a moment of silence, Lance spoke. "Legally and politically, I can't have these feelings for her, but I do. I'm not sure I could continue to serve the royal family if she marries some prince or diplomat from a foreign country that she doesn't even care for...or worse, that she does care for. Dad, what am I supposed to do? How should I handle this?" Lance said, once again looking into his lap and not meeting his father's penetrating gaze.

Edward took a moment to consider his son's words, then responded with a question of his own. If Lance didn't have an answer to this, he would need to address it soon. "How does Ilana feel about all of this?"

Lance looked up, slight panic and fear in his eyes and expression, "She doesn't know, and she's not finding out. At least, not from me. She won't be hearing it from you either, right?" He said, his fiery eyes squinted at his father in intimidating defiance, authority in his voice. His sentence posed a question, but the way Lance said it made it clear that it was not a question; it was a statement.

Edward was not used to seeing his normally calm and collected son so strong yet vulnerable at the same time, though he wasn't surprised by this reaction. It was a serious matter that needed delicate handling. He shook his head, "I won't tell her, I promise; but you should. This is a serious situation, Lance. If the king promotes you, thinking you'll be staying on in the military, what kind of situation do you think that will create? You'd most likely be working closely with the royal family; continuously in their presence. You would need to be calm and professional at all times, and you'd have to be sure you didn't address any of them familiarly. The atmosphere would be rigid and proper, not intimate and relaxed, as you've grown accustomed to. Will it be healthy or comfortable for either you or Ilana? You need to be honest with her, son. After that, Ilana has to decide."

Edward stopped for a moment, allowing his words to sink in. He could see the conflict on Lance's face.

After a small period of silence, he decided to continue. "I know you're scared that it will ruin the friendship you two have built, but if you won't be allowed to talk to her informally once the king is restored to power anyway, what harm can it do? It's just a question of now or later."

Lance looked thoughtful, yet still troubled. After several minutes, he spoke, "Even if you're right, father, we'll all be engulfed with the mission once we return to Galaluna. I can't say anything, not now. We all need to be completely focused for what's coming."

Edward gave his son a sympathetic look; Lance could detect slight fear and sorrow in his father's face as well. "Lance, have you thought of the alternative scenario as well? What if something happens to you? You won't be focused, not until you get your emotions and thoughts in check. That leaves you vulnerable...and that vulnerability could get you killed if you're not careful..."

"That won't happen." Lance stubbornly replied, his dark orbs squinted at his father in defiance once again. "I never lose focus on the mission...never."

Edward shook his head sadly. "There's a first time for everything, Lance. I know you're a strong and capable soldier, but romantic emotions are completely unfamiliar territory for you; I can see how much it's been affecting you lately. I'm not saying this scenario will happen, because I sincerely hope it doesn't. I love you, after all. I just want you to ask yourself this one question, and answer it honestly: 'If I die on this mission, will I want to die knowing that I've been honest with her, or die knowing I concealed something important from her'?"

Edward paused so his son could take in the question. After a moment of quiet, he continued. "True love only comes around once, Lance, and it's impossible to replace. Believe me, I know very well how it feels; both to have it, and to lose it." Edward said as he gazed over at a framed picture on his dressing table. It was a picture of himself and Lance's mother on their wedding day. She was a beautiful woman, with dark eyes and raven black hair. She was slim, and her complexion was on the paler side; though her cheeks held a faint rosy blush to them. She had a kind, loving smile on her face as she looked at her husband; Edward staring down at her with complete adoration in his features. She died when Lance was born, so he never knew her. He was the spitting image of his mother, though he had his father's personality, habits, and little quirks.

Lance looked at the picture with sadness and affection. "I know..." was all he said.

After several silent moments, his father spoke once again. "Think about what I've told you, son. Think carefully. I don't want you to have any regrets in your life; at least, not any that could have been prevented. I want you to be happy, so grab at opportunities when they come; don't let them slip away." Edward said, his eyes becoming misty. His eight-year-old son from his memories no longer existed. Now, in front of him, was a young man of twenty-one; trying to navigate life's winding roads, and all the sharp turns that they possessed. Not to mention the great responsibilities that he had to bare on top of that. He couldn't believe just how much Lance had grown, and how proud he was of his, now, adult son. He knew, just by looking at Lance, that his boy would become a great man and a hero to the Galalunian people; he was sure of it.

Sadly, though, he had been watching the clock; he knew it was time to say goodbye to his boy, at least for now.

Lance looked at his father and nodded his head; his long, dark bangs falling into his face as they usually did. He was unable to form any words. He, too, knew it was time to leave. "...Thanks for everything, Dad. You helped, more than you know. I'll miss you." Lance said as he got up and hugged Edward, who was also standing now.

Edward gave his boy the best bear-hug he could muster, tears running freely down his cheeks. "It was my pleasure, son. I'm only sorry that I'm about thirteen years behind on my fatherly duties." he said.

They both chuckled. "Please, Lance, be safe. Stay focused, and do the job you've been commissioned to do. The King believed in you; still does. So do I. I'm so proud of you, you know...and your mother would be proud too."

Lance looked up at his father, a tear escaping his own eye, "When will you come back to Galaluna, Dad?"

Edward released his son, but put his strong hand once again on Lance's shoulder. "Soon. It may be a year or more, but soon, I promise. I just need to make sure that G3 can stand on its own once I leave, fully equipped to handle any alien attack that can be thrown at us. We're nearly there, and once we are, I'll come straight back." Edward said as he smiled down at his son

Lance smiled back, giving a nod of his head. "I'll be waiting for you, then...just don't push it another thirteen years, okay?"

Edward gave a hearty laugh, "I won't, I promise. Now go, your team's waiting for you. Help save the planet, restore the king to his rightful place, and use your skills to help steer the kingdom down the path of restoration." Edward said.

Lance gave a smile and nod to his father. Before he could turn to leave, however, Edward spoke once more, "Also, I expect to have at least one adorable, blonde-haired, brown-eyed grandchild waiting for me when I return." Edward said, the sentence accompanied with a sly smirk on his face and a mischievous sparkle in his eye.

Lance just blushed, his smile dropping to a frown once again, turned, and walked away. From behind him, he could hear his father's booming laughter as he walked off.

After his father's exuberance had died down, Lance gave a sideways glance back at him. "I'll try, I promise...but I won't promise anything in the grandchildren realm." were the last words he said as he exited the room; His father, smiling proudly from behind. 'Give it your all, son...' Edward thought as he watched his boy walk closer and closer to his future...and whatever was to come from it.

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While Lance was gone, Kimmy decided to have a little heart-to-heart chat with Ilana about going back to her home world.

Kimmy didn't want to push anything, but she wanted more information about how things would work once they were on Galaluna...and what the change would mean for Lance and Ilana's close friendship.

She had acquired vague information over the past few weeks from Octus, and what she was able to learn was not reassuring for both their mini family, and Lance and Ilana's relationship.

She approached Ilana slowly, carefully formulating her questions in her head prior to voicing them, "Hey, Ilana, can we talk while we're waiting for Lance?"

Ilana turned around to look at Kimmy, a bright smile on her face, "Of course, just let me grab the outfit Octus made for me." Ilana said as she walked over to the closet in the launch bay.

"Would you mind if we talk while I change?" she asked. Kimmy shook her head, and proceeded to follow Ilana to the Ladies' Room. Once inside, Ilana started changing into the new gown Octus had prepared for her. It was a beautiful sky-blue silk fabric with gold trimming, mid-length sleeves that hugged Ilana's slender arms, and a v-neck cut. The dress flared slightly at the bottom, with additional white lace around the edge. She was about to step back into the role of princess; and, of course, that meant she also had to dress the part.

While Ilana was changing, she spoke. "I assume you want to know more about Galaluna and my people, right?" she asked.

Kimmy nodded her head. "Yeah, I wanna know exactly what to expect and how I should act. I'm still getting used to the idea that you're a princess and all..." Kimmy said, eyes trailing the floor. She was nervous, she wouldn't deny it. She was beginning a completely different life, one that was vastly different from anything she'd known on Earth. She was entering a whole new world, and everything she grew up doing and saying would no longer be acceptable in certain types of society. She likened it in her mind to the English hierarchy. "Will I need to address you as 'Princess' or 'Your Highness', or can I still just call you Ilana? And what about Lance? Will he turn into 'Corporal', or can I keep calling him by his first name, too? Also, should I address your father as 'Your Majesty', 'Your Royal Highness', or 'My King'? Ugh...why is everything so confusing...and why does royalty have so many titles!" Kimmy let out a grunt, and a sigh before slumping onto the opposite side of the bench on which Ilana was now sitting, having dressed in her new gown and looking every bit the pristine and proper princess.

She chuckled, and gave Kimmy a kind smile. "Everyone else will address me as 'Princess', but you can keep calling me Ilana. You're not Galalunian, so people won't hold it against you if you don't follow our social etiquette laws. Besides, you're entitled to special privileges anyway, being a friend of the crown. You will have to address my father as 'Your Majesty', though, unless he tells you otherwise. Sorry." Ilana said, giving Kimmy a guilty smile.

Kimmy smiled back, "That's perfect, actually. It's a relief to know that I won't have to address you any differently. What about the other stuff?" Kimmy asked.

Ilana looked thoughtful, thinking carefully before replying, "You'll be able to keep calling Octus, Octus; but you'll probably have to address Lance as Corporal. I'm not certain, though. I'll ask my father. We've never had to deal with social etiquette when it comes to 'aliens' before". Ilana laughed lightly while Kimmy gave a nod.

Afterwards, silence took over. After several minutes, Kimmy decided to start some gentle prying, "So...how will returning to Galaluna affect the relationship between you three?" she said, hoping she wasn't treading where she wasn't welcome.

Thankfully, Ilana didn't seem bothered by the question. "Oh, I'm sure we'll still be working closely as a unit. The resistance needs Titan, after all." Ilana replied.

Kimmy noticed that the princess completely dodged the point of her initial question. As expected of royalty, they knew how to avoid a conversation they did not want to address. Kimmy, however, was not ready to let this go. "Well, that's great to hear, but I was more thinking along the lines of you guys' 'family' relationship. I assume that things will stay relatively the same with Octus, him being a robot and all; but, what about Lance? I heard from Octus that soldiers never mingle with royalty." Kimmy asked.

Ilana's face fell ever so slightly, her features tensing. Clearly, she had hit a nerve.

Ilana took some time to answer, her head dropping to gaze at the floor, drowning in her own thoughts; the air in the Ladies' room acquiring a heavy atmosphere.

After several moments of silence, Ilana lifted her head. From her vantage point, sitting on Ilana's left, Kimmy could clearly see a war of emotions being waged in her friend's eyes and carefully guarded expression. She knew that she was contemplating how much to share. After all, Kimmy knew that this must be a sensitive topic. What she wanted, though, was for Ilana to see someone that she could trust with her troubles whenever she looked at her. They had become extremely close as the years had gone by, and Kimmy thought of Ilana as a sister; she wanted Ilana to feel the same way towards her.

When Ilana finally made eye contact with Kimmy, she saw great concern and empathy in her friend's eyes. She knew that Kimmy could be trusted with personal and delicate information; she had proven that in her time of dating Octus. So, Ilana decided to answer her question honestly and directly, "That's right...it will change our situation drastically...and to be honest, I'm dreading it..." she said; Kimmy listening intently.

"You're correct, soldiers are not allowed to socialize with royalty unless it relates to safety, military matters, or the business of the palace and country. Lance and I won't be able to continue the relationship we've had here, not under any circumstances. Soldiers are strictly forbidden from forming any type of attachment to royalty unless it pertains to loyalty to the crown; be it friendship or romance. Likewise, it's illegal for royalty to socialize with soldiers and citizens in any type of overly-familiar, familial, or romantic manner. The only exception to this rule in the familial aspect has been Hobbs, my former bodyguard. However, I'm convinced that my father only allowed it because he was like a second father to me. By law, a prince or princess is required to marry royalty from another country. That's why my father always held diplomatic arrangements for me with other princes. As for Lance, we won't be able to be friends once we return to Galaluna. At home, I'm his social superior, his princess...not his equal...not Ilana...I'll never be Ilana to him again..." Ilana said, tears beginning to well up in her eyes, and her voice growing quieter with each word she spoke. "The three of us have become a family. Octus is like a father to me, and Lance has become my best friend. If you had told me three years ago when we first landed here that I would be saying these words now, I would have considered you certifiably insane...but I was wrong. Even though we came from completely different backgrounds, and are opposite personalities, we understand each-other in a way that nobody else ever could..."

Ilana paused, considering whether or not to continue. After a moment of silence, Kimmy took this chance to interject in the conversation. "Not only that, Ilana, but he's served multiple roles in your life. He knows every side of you and how they all mesh together to create the Ilana he's come to consider family."

Ilana gave Kimmy a quizzical look, silently urging her to continue. Kimmy obliged. "You met him as your subordinate, a Corporal in the Galalunian Military with a reputation as a rebel. He served as your protector on Earth, played the role of your brother in school, and became your confidant and friend over the course of your time here. He's seen you as the devoted princess, trying your hardest to better the lives of your people; he's cared for you as the sole remaining hope for your people, a gift to be treasured and guarded; and he's been able to connect with you as a person, not just a title. He's seen you at your best, and worst; He knows exactly how to respond to every move you make and any persona you have to take on. It's almost like he can read your mind, in a way. I've seen it. It shows that he knows you extremely well. Personally, I think he knows you better than you know yourself."

Kimmy stopped talking after this, studying her friend. Ilana looked deep in thought, her eyes beginning to glaze over as she pondered this information and thought back on the many years that she had known Lance before their arrival on Earth. Kimmy was right; Lance did know her better than she knew herself...and she feared losing that more than anything else. Her father had once told her as a child that only your sole-mate would know you better than you know yourself, and to cherish that person to the end of your days. She wondered if she would be able to honor that advice in the future.

Seeing Ilana's eyes flicker with different emotions, Kimmy decided to continue; a softer and gentler voice leaving her lips. "I can see how much he means to you, Ilana."

At which point, Ilana's head snapped up, and looked directly at Kimmy; a rare show of un-guarded panic in her face.

Kimmy gave her a gentle smile before continuing, putting her hand on Ilana's. "I know he's more to you than your bodyguard, brother, or best friend. If I'm being presumptuous, I apologize, but I think you're in love with him. Am I right?"

Ilana's eyes began to well up with tears once more, this time not stopping at the rims of her lids, but falling down her cheeks in a steady current. She nodded her head slowly; everything Kimmy said was true. Of course, she had acknowledged her feelings when she realized how she viewed Lance, but she hoped that by pretending none of those emotions existed, it would make the return home easier.

She was wrong. This wasn't something she could try to ignore; the pain and sorrow was too much.

Kimmy dug into her pockets, and found some tissue for the teary-eyed princess; a guilty look on her face as she offered the tissue to Ilana. "I'm sorry Ilana, I didn't mean to make you cry. I just wanted to know the truth...and to find out how you were planning on dealing with this situation. You've helped me more times than I can count, so this time, I want to be the one to help you. If there's anything that I can do, let me know, okay?" she said, sincerity radiating from her voice.

Ilana accepted the proffered tissue, and blew her nose, giving a weak smile and nod. "Thank you, Kimmy; you're a really good friend. I don't know what I'm going to do yet, but once I figure it out, I'll let you know." Ilana replied.

The two girls shared a hug before brushing themselves off, and walking toward the Ladies' Room door. Before Kimmy could open it, however, Ilana spoke once more. "Kimmy, if anyone finds out about this, it could get him jailed, exiled, or even executed. I need you to keep this a secret, even from Octus, if he doesn't already know. If he does know, however, I'm relying on you to make sure he doesn't say anything by accident."

Kimmy looked at Ilana, her demeanor becoming firm. "I promise, not a word to anyone. I'll talk to Octus, too; make sure he knows to keep things quiet."

Ilana gave Kimmy a grateful smile, and with a mutual nod between the two girls, they exited through the door. As they walked towards their future, their demeanors became more serious with every step they took; knowing that this was the beginning of a new phase in their lives, with many trials and tribulations to overcome. As they went, they thought about everything that they were entering into, and everything they wanted...and wondering just how it would all play out.

EF-F - EF-F - EF-F - EF-F - EF-F - EF-F - EF-F - EF-F - EF-F

Lance and the two girls returned to the hanger at about the same time.

When Lance saw Ilana in the new gown that Octus had made for her, he couldn't help but gawk. The girls were talking, so he didn't think they would notice. He examined every aspect of the dress; it was a beautiful gown with mid-length sleeves. The sky-blue color, and gold trimming accentuated Ilana's beautiful blond hair and light, freckled skin perfectly. The added lace edging along the bottom gave it a regal and delicate appearance. He appreciated the V-neck cut, as well as the more form-fitting way the dress hugged her body. It showed off her curves, but still remained loose enough at the bottom for ease of movement.

He was mesmerized, and completely unaware of the length and intensity of his perusal of Ilana's personage and appearance. It was only when he caught sight of Kimmy's sideways glance and small, knowing smirk directed his way that he realized what he was letting himself do...and for how long he was allowing himself to do it.

He immediately tore his eyes away from Ilana and made a B-line for Octus – head down, and hands in his pockets; his raven locks covering his red face.

Kimmy was chuckling silently to herself as she walked with Ilana toward the ship.

"Octus, is everything ready?" Lance asked, reaching the location of the robot.

"Yes, I believe so. Solomon and your father have the rift gate ready. Are the three of you prepared to depart?" Octus asked.

Kimmy turned, and looked through the large bay window one final time at the planet she had called home for twenty-one years. With one final image stored in the recesses of her mind, she gave a nod.

Lance and Ilana followed suite, nodding in unison. Everyone was ready to leave.

With a silent look at each-other, they entered the ship, one after another. When all four were securely inside and in their seats, Solomon started the countdown.

As the clock counted backward from 10, the hanger doors opened, and a large white beam penetrated the sky. At 1, the rift gate opened, ready to transport its cargo. The clock struck 0, and the ship lifted off. It was only a matter of seconds before they were up in the air, and entering the rift gate.

Suddenly, everything went blank...