Secrets & Lies: Journeys of the Forgotten

by Loa of Lore

Non-canon to Secrets & Lies; What do you think when the word Guardian comes to mind, an Ancient Lightbearer sees them not in a good light, but maybe his new partner, a newly Risen, can help him see that there is still hope left, though there will be challenges ahead, and the story of an untold hero, will be revealed. But is he truly a hero or a monster or both. Only time will tell.

6. The Spider's Web

Hello, everyone. I am back with another chapter and hopefully this one doesn't exactly turn out like the last one…still have no idea what you guys think about it, because I am not getting any reviews in terms of ones that I can directly be given some.

But anyway, here is chapter 6 and I hope you guys enjoy it.

The Present Day

X had been out for at least two days, for he decided to take the scenic route on his Burnout Sparrow after landing the Obsidian Wings ship in a spot on the Tangled Shore that no one would find it. He always liked feeling the wind being pushed against him, for it made him feel free. Free of responsibility, free of worries, free of anything. He knew that Guardians liked to observe the world by air on the backs of the Wyverns and Griffons that they tamed…though it is unfortunate on what happened to those animals along with the majority of the other wild animals that thought it was a good idea to mess with the Red Legion, they do not hold their punches. Though he knew that the best way to observe everything wasn't only to just look at the big picture, but to also see everything for yourself. But he also knew that all things end and so he wasn't surprised when Dex decided to have a conversation

'So, should we contact Keith?', said Dex who was speaking through X's head space.

"We've been over this Dex.", said X, who was currently navigating through the Tangled Shore's terrain and of course making sure that he avoided certain areas, whether they were friendly or not.

'I know, but…you're sure that he doesn't need us. I know that he probably noticed us on that planet when decided to bury the Hive that were their alive. Even if him being there made things complicated as well as caused us to not plant all of the explosives in every exit and entrance into that lair…he probably is wondering why a guy dressed as a Raven was there, not to mention that Allen probably would rest at night easier if he knew that you were looking over him.'

"The kid can take care of himself. Not to mention that he has Shiro and Jaz with him, they'll keep him straight."

'Funny, considering that one of them isn't.'

"Bad joke."

'I know, but I'm worried about Keith. Especially after that fight against Zarkon's command center. Not to mention that Lotor fiasco.', said Dex, who remembers the time they followed Voltron into the gas planet that Lotor lured them into, as well as what Keith was going through after Shiro disappeared.

"He's a teenager. They always go through those phases. We both know that."

'Keith isn't Alicia, X. I would probably define him more like Alex, if Keith were an Eliksni Half-breed that has a grudge against Guardians…and has dead parents as well as if he was a she. But you get what I mean.', said Dex, who tried to steer away from talking about Alicia after mentioning her, X is still recovering from that ordeal even after everything.

"I know. But the kid doesn't need us, he has enough people with him.", said X as he went through the junkyard portion of the Tangled Shore.

'Yeah, but none of them are Guardians. So, I doubt that Keith is still practicing his maneuvers and training. Even if that will only keep him safe for at least one go.', said Dex, who still couldn't believe that the Vanguard would allow the same training sequence go year after year after year for the past 4,000 years straight.

"After the Red War, Zavala and the others have decided to change things up a bit so as to allow the Lightborn to be better prepared. Adding a smaller version of the Crucible to be used as part of their training program is a good start. But they might not be ready for what's coming.", said X, who had flashbacks of his first encounter with the Darkness when the collapse began.

'Which is why I think we should contact Keith. He probably doesn't even realize what it means that his powers are back. If we were all able to feel the Traveler's Light even if we are in another galaxy, then so to will they have felt it.', said Dex, 'Plus, it would probably be good that this time we would have something like Voltron.'

"Voltron can't solve every problem, Dex. And it won't be enough to face them."

'I have my doubts that Keith would accept an Alliance with the Cabal Empire, after what happened. And if we were to ally with the Eliksni, then we would first need to get over the millennia's worth of prejudice against one another. And I am not exactly sure if we can make allies out of the Hive or the Vex, the latter more so than the former considering what we learned on Masdalela alongside Failsafe, and what we could possibly learn more about them on Quokyakch, which we have Osiris to thank for that. The Hive though, yeah, I'm not sure actually. We were able to learn about their history, but I don't know.', said Dex, who was pondering about something.

"What's on you mind Little Light?", said X who noticed that he was getting closer to the Spider's Territory.

'Well, I just found that the Hive nest that we found on that planet which Keith and Shiro were on….to be odd. I mean, not like odd as in they weren't doing Hive stuff, but odd as in there were strange symbols on the pillars and shrines. Not to mention that the Hive acolytes weren't immediately trying to kill those two, and the thralls seemed more interested in capturing them than killing them despite what those two were probably thinking.'

X had arrived at essentially what could be described as a toll gate, he then paid the guards the fee and was allowed to continue through. Though he needed to figure out whether to take the path towards the town, which would most likely have the Black Market set up at this time, or the shipyard which would probably have goods coming in and out like it always does. X decided to take the path towards the town.

'Like for instance, the Hive usually send the thralls in to overwhelm their targets, but they seemed to be more focused on having Keith and Shiro surrounded. And the fact that the Hive had an interest in the Black Lion just makes things even more strange. But I think what's the strangest is the fact that I kept reading the word: Exile, in every room that had a designated room. Plus, with how deep the Hive nest was, they may have been there for probably 10,000 years. So, what's up with that and what could it mean. Is there a group of Hive that have abandoned the ways of their kin, or could this have something to do with this Nokris fellow? Maybe this group of Hive was exiled for some reason. But I think those carvings were the strangest for they portrayed some sort of winged Hive god, but Oryx is dead in a sense, and we haven't heard from Savathun or Xivu Arath. I may be just paranoid for ranting like that and for what I am going to say, but could it be that there is another Hive god that was expunged from all of the Hive's records, I didn't have time to translate the writing on the statue but it could possibly indicate that there is another Hive god out there, waiting for something.'

X began to ponder on that as he left the town and headed for the elevator that would lead to the main operations of the Spider along with the way to the Spider's palace. If it is possible that another Hive god exists, then who are they or who are they spawned from. It was probably not a sibling of the three main Hive gods, but he didn't want to rule out that possibility. But he does remember that the statue that they found looked more feminine than the statues depicting Oryx and Crota, and this Nokris fellow. And he doubts that it depicted Savathun or Xivu Arath, for Savathun's Hive broods disappeared a long time ago and Xivu Arath is most likely near the fringes of the Cabal Empire seeing as the Cabal are constantly seeking conquest through war. The fact that is known however, that this Hive god apparently was given the term Bane of Worms as an honorific title, which was strange all things considering.

X had then reached the Elevator and began to descend once he made his intentions clear to the Spider's associates. He then sped up the path to the Spider's palace making sure that he avoided any unnecessary trouble, for now he was entering the heart of the Spider's criminal empire, and the fact that he recognized a few parked ships to have belonged to mercenaries and bounty hunters that are infamous around the universe, it goes to show that he is glad to not be a very known person. For too much fame (though more like infamy) can lead you to get a bounty on your head, which apparently from what X learned from the info that his program in the lions and Castle told him, the green paladin had apparently learned of that case when a bounty hunter went after her and her brother alongside Darvah…good thing X is not here to tell Spider about that incident.

'So, what do you think? Should we tell Keith or still keep him in the dark? It was bad enough that we also had to keep his mother's fate and whereabouts a secret…along with his heritage.'

"We'll keep him in the dark for now. And besides, Allen wanted Keith to not know about her nor his heritage. I may've warned both Krolia and Allen against it, but it was either that or give a Keith a reason to not think that he is like the Galra.", said X who had to whisper to Dex at the moment.

X then had arrived at the entrance into the palace, and had Dex put the Burnout Sparrow back in the jumpship via teleportation. And then began to walk inside, though once he got through the first gate he needed to go through inspection. The reason why is because a certain Exo whose name rhymes with blade made it apparent to the Spider that he needed to enforce a no weapons inside the Palace rule. The associate showed him the sign and X then proceeded to empty himself of the weapons he was carrying in a box that would contain his stuff. Once he put in the last weapon which was the Thunderlord exotic machine gun, he then proceeded to enter, only to be stopped for he didn't put in all of his weapons in the crate. X then pulled out his dagger and if his face were shown then it would give the impression that he thinks the whole situation is ridiculous, and then proceeded to drop the knife into the crate. It would then be stored in the wall, with the associates telling him to enjoy the Spider's hospitality, after of course questioning what was in the briefcase. X told them that it was for the Spider's eyes only, and the only reason why they allowed it is because of X's relationship with the Spider. X then entered to find himself in a type of nightclub setting that was combined with a casino. He saw people of all different backgrounds and races in the room. He even saw some rogue Lightbearers as well. He then let one of the Spider's associates know that he wishes to speak to the Spider on a business deal. The associate then nodded and went to the Spider's chambers in order to let his boss know who wishes to speak to him.

X then went to the bar and sat down though made sure that no one tried to take his briefcase, for he knew what kind of people that were attracted and would fall into the Spider's web. From pirates to gangsters to other crime lords and warlords. Spider also had the habit of just allowing anyone from terrorists to gamblers, or even drug dealers into his establishment, though he always made sure that they would be kept an eye on. And though X could hear the laughing and conversing between all manner of scum, he could tell that everyone was frankly afraid for only the foolish would stand near or inside the Spider's domain. X though was probably the only exception to it for he has met Spider and did jobs for the Fallen Baron, but the reason that most are afraid of Spider is because he can essentially be described as an honest businessman and by that it means that he will do what he says, though depending on the situation he will keep the debt going until he is satisfied. Plus, if anyone is foolish enough to cross the Spider, then they will find out that they should've done their end of the deal instead of lying to the Spider.

X remembers when the Spider made a call for him to "bring" his son to him. X though refused because he didn't want to get involved with something that was personal to the Spider. Which while the Spider wasn't exactly happy about, X made it clear that he isn't the kind of guy who hunts down family members…...mostly because he already has to deal with one already. So, the Spider didn't press him any further, though felt disappointed about that.

X ended up being asked by the bartender if he wanted anything and X respectfully declined stating that he wasn't going to be here for long. X then turned his head to see if he could spot anyone that knew him or if he could find Alex. He noticed a few regular waiters that were different species, though the majority of them were Eliksni, but he also noticed a lot of shanks that were reprogrammed to serve refreshments. He didn't see Alex so X assumed that she was either on break or her shift was done. Though he noticed something peculiar, the door that led to the Spider's throne room opened and three members of the Blade of Marmora came out. He wandered what they were doing here, though he suspected that it might be that the Blades made a deal with Spider, which makes sense. For after the Galra failed in making a deal with the Last City, they were able to find a way to still be connected with the Krein System through the Spider. In exchange for the Spider offering items and info on Guardians, the Galra Empire would allow the Spider to do business within their empire's territory. Too bad though that most of the time the Spider makes a few counterfeit items like the time he offered a Gjallarhorn to a Galra that was a bit to…invested in learning about Guardian culture, which is technically Last City culture, and because of that she didn't notice that she was given a replica that while could easily be mistaken for the original, it was unable to work. Though the fact that said Galra thought that it was a good idea to pressure the Spider into giving her a weapon used by Guardians, well let's just say that if she finds out the Spider will have felt justification for her thinking that she could threaten him. Plus, he has plenty more replicas of that weapon. Though he did end up giving the armor of some Guardians that were personally killed by X, though how that one will get the helmet to no longer have a dent is beyond him. Though anyway, because of Spider's connections in the Galra Empire he is a good information broker on anything that anyone needs to know, for the right price of course.

X then was notified by a Spider Associate that the Spider will be seeing him now. So, X got up and went to the Spider's throne room. And as he went toward the doors, he wondered if the Spider had any information on a particular prisoner of the Galra Empire.

X had not been in the Spider's throne room in a long time, though to say that he wasn't familiar with it was not true. It was essentially what X remembered it as, and he then noticed the Spider in all of his supposed glory. His throne looked much like a Spider which is probably where he got the name from, though X noticed that he was talking to one of his associates, only to then notice that X had finally arrived.

"Well, well, well. What do we have here? If it isn't the best hunter in all of the universe.", said Spider in a tone that was more like exaggerating his guest's reputation.

"Spider.", said X who gave a gesture to Spider that was how Humans or essentially those of Terra in generally say hello without speaking.

The Spider shifted in his throne as he began to chuckle, but after that he then started to fiddle with the dead Ghost in his hands, "It's been a while since we last spoke, though I wonder, what could possibly bring you to visit me."

Spider then noticed the briefcase, and started to put it together.

"So, that's why you're visiting. Then again, I was hoping that it would be more like you visiting an old friend. And seeing as we are friends, I was wondering if you could…... enlighten me."

"Enlighten you on what?"

"Well, the thing is, I can't understand why my people refer to you as the Phantom of Golden Age Lesdes. So…. Enlighten me.", said Spider who was giving a hand gesture that he picked up on from Terrans.

"Golden Age Lesdes was my home, before it was burnt to the ground by the House of Devils led by Akileuks."

"Ahhhh. My condolences for the lost of your home, though I suppose you brought many Fallen down along with Lesdes."

"Yes. And after I was seen again by a member of the House of Devils that witnessed me, alerted his House and so the Fallen have been refering to me as the Phantom of Golden Age Lesdes ever since.", said X, "But let's get back to why I'm here."

X then lifted the briefcase up and held it with both of his hands.

"Let's", said Spider, who snapped his fingers which prompted one of his associates to walk up to X and acquire the briefcase from him. The associate then gave the briefcase to Spider, who had placed his dead ghost down in order to look at the contents of the briefcase as well as take out what was in it.

Spider then opened the briefcase after unlocking it, and slowly opened it. He noticed a faint blue glow coming out of the box, but then he saw what was inside it. A small container that held a black rock with glowing blue energy glowing on it to form lines as if they were veins of ore. The Spider had a look on his face that indicated that he was satisified and mesmerized at what he was looking at. He then picked up the small container all the while saying, "Trans-reality comet ore. The rarest resource in the entirety of the universe."

The Spider then looked at X, "Where did you find this?"

"That is something that will be bargained for.", said X

"Ha, this is why I like you. You always find things that nobody else can find.", said Spider, who then looked at X inquisitively, "What do you want for it?"

"That chunk that you have is meant for any debts that Alex owes you."

"Oh, you wound me. And here I thought we were pals.", said Spider, who was giving a lazy sarcastic tone, but then he went back to being serious, "Alex, doesn't owe me anything. In fact, she has been paying off any debts that she owes me anyway. I always bet on the kid that was raised by my favorite bounty hunter, those that don't well, I am sure you can guess what happens."

"So, that's why you've been nice to her."

"Well, that and I don't want to cause any bad blood between us, Phantom. I already have to deal with my own family, I don't need to make an enemy out of you.", said Spider who slouched back onto his throne after putting the container back in the briefcase and handing it to one of his associates, "But I will put it also into account, so her debts to me are as one could say 'Paid in full'. Though I suppose, that this is not the only bit of rock that you've got for me."

"Yes, there is more. Which is actually the main reason I am here for. A simple trade of information for information."

"That's so.", said Spider who tilted his head in curiosity, "And what information do you want in exchange?"

"In exchange, for the location of the rest of the Trans-reality comet ore, you will give me the location of John-7. He's been a prisoner of the Galra Empire for 6 years."

"And you haven't found him? That is…... surprising."

"The Galra like to move him around as if he were a trophy needing to be put on the right display space. They like the fact that he keeps moral high for their other prisoners and so send him off to planets where he ends up laboring on, only to then be transported to another place."

"And you wish to know where he has currently been placed or in other words, if he has been moved at all recently."

"Yes."

"So, who should go first?"

X held up a flashdrive, that held the coordinates to Lotor's destroyed cruiser which still held the last of the Trans-reality comet ore. And the Spider then held out his hand as X walked forward and handed Spider the flashdrive. Spider then gave it to one of his associates after inspecting it, and told that associate to have one of his men check the coordinates and gather a scavenger team so that they could acquire all of what remains of this rare source of nearly indestructible metal.

Spider then began to fulfill his end of the deal, "Ever since that one has been in the custody of the Galra empire, he has been used as both a means of labor and a source of…... entertainment. I honestly don't understand how gladiator matches are entertaining, then again, I sponsor a fight club to keep my guests from… well, you know. But anyway, when Zarkon was in charge, he had this John-7 be taken to just about anywhere that would allow him to be a tool for the Empire without causing the ire of that city that your kind tends to protect like it's the center of the universe, it was Zarkon who made the last decision, when it came to his location. Though after that unfortunate tussle with Voltron, Zarkon was not able to make his final order for the next location he would be sent to. And when Lotor was the…... regent, he didn't realize that they had a Guardian in custody. The fool was so focused on his own agendas that he didn't think about making himself appear as a kind person, by freeing the Guardian from their custody, he probably would've had a better relationship with those Paladins of Voltron. But because of that, John-7 has not left Galra central command, ever since Zarkon was on his deathbed. And though Zarkon is now up from his long nap, John-7 remains on that capital ship of theirs. That, is where you will find him.", said Spider who made several gestures and used body language that only those from Terra could understand.

"Thank you for this intel, Spider.", said X, who believed that he could leave now, though stopped himself after the Spider spoke once more.

"Don't mention it, though while our business has concluded. I wish to know, how is my son? And if possible, could you deliver a message to him?"

"Your son is fine, he ended up with some rebels though is now with the Paladins, which in turn means he is with the Coalition. And well, what does the message entail."

"Well, I was just wondering why he called and asked for my support of the Voltron Coalition. But as for the message.", the Spider leaned forward and pointed his finger in front of him, "You tell that kid of mine that the next time he messes with MY systems, I'll be sending a bounty hunter to drag him by the ears to me! He may've made me proud the first and second time in doing it, but the third time caused me to lose profits. The only reason I am doing anything for that Coalition… is because he asked, but also let him know that when its all over. I will be expecting him to pay back for every last bit of what I gave to that organization, or else. Just remind him of what happens, when I think that my own family has decided to… abuse my generosity without giving anything in return."

"Don't you and your kid have a somewhat good relationship?"

"Just because he is my son, doesn't mean that he gets a free pass from my costs. I will be expecting him to pay for it all, at a discount mind you, because I am just that generous. BUT should he ask for more, then that is where he will need to pay extra. I don't run a charity around these parts."

X didn't exactly like it when he ended up being caught between family dilemmas and when it came to the Spider, well, the fact he had his own brother sent to the Prison of Elders for life goes to show how much of a dilemma is in their family.

"I'll make sure to let him know if I see him, Spider.", said X, who then started to leave.

"A pleasure doing business with you, Phantom, as always.", said Spider, though he did have one last thing to say to X before he left, "Oh and if you're looking for the Half-breed, then the Fight Club is to the right from the entrance."

"Thanks for letting me know.", said X, who didn't exactly like the fact that Alex was in a fight club especially one that was run by a crime lord.

X was currently hoping that he wouldn't find Alex actually participating in the fight club, though considering that he knew what Alex was like, it was more like him wishing that it wasn't so. The reason why he didn't want to see her in the ring, was because of how much of a grudge she has against Guardians or better yet the people of Terra. The only reason she stayed with X for so long before running away for reasons that X doesn't know, was because he was the only person she knew outside of her mother and later on an old friend of X that was kind to her. Everyone else, either was just spiteful towards her or openly hostile. Which is essentially what happened when she revealed herself when trying to make friends with kids her age, the end result left her with mental scars that would make her unable to trust Guardians…especially and more so the Lightborn. In fact, she utterly hates the Lightborn, for it was Lightborn that killed her mother out of the fact that she was defending someone who wasn't even there. It's the main reason why X wanted Keith to be living in a world where there were still prejudices that were obvious, for it would allow him and the rest of his friends to learn that such things are stupid in a universe where at any moment you could experience an invasion from an alien empire. Keith might though need to learn to forgive first, and once he does, X will know that he is ready to face the Darkness.

Though while he was walking towards the sounds of shouting and cheering, Dex spoke.

'It happened again, didn't it? Back at the Ketch, the temperature dropped a bit around you.'

X didn't respond.

'It's been getting more active X, if it starts manifesting again. Then I'm not sure what it could do to you, everything you've been through could cause you to- '

"If it happens again, I'll let you know.", said X, who didn't want to talk about it any further.

X then went into the room where all the noise was coming from, which well, for one thing it was more like a small stadium than anything else. And the place was packed, though the majority of people there were either enjoying the show or counting the bets. He then went to an open seat and watched what was happening though one of the people who was running the whole betting part of the fights tried to have X bet on one of the fighters. X refused and gave a warning to the man, who took the message and promptly went back to collecting bets. X could here a lot of things from spectators insulting the fighter that they want to drop to others making their own wagers. Though one insult that he heard had to do with an Eliksni female. X then got up and see if he could get a better view, and as he thought he saw Alex in the ring going up against an adult human. And Alex was winning. The human from what X could tell, while being taller and well built compared to Alex who was a teenager at this point, was getting his ass handed to him.

The human sent punches and kicks at Alex, only for her to dodge every one of them. Though X noticed that Alex got a few hits from her opponent, only to then get back at the human by punching him repeatedly with her four fists. And then when the human the human went for another punch, Alex kicked him in the groin, something that was felt by the male members of the audience. Which then led her to using an uppercut with all four of her hands. It knocked the off his feet and X thought it would be over, but then Alex got on to the Human's body and just wailed on him with punches over and over again. X then decided to drop into it, and ran to Alex. He grabbed an arm that was ready to knock more teeth out, though X noticed how bloody her fist got. Alex looked at who stopped her only to go wide eyed at the sight of X.

"When we get back, we are going to have a long talk young lady."

Alex then ripped her arm out of X's grasp.

"Get yourself cleaned up; we're leaving."

Alex was glaring at X but did what she was told, though she did try to argue only to then noticed that the human somewhat recovered and was going to hit her again, only to get sent flying towards the wall by X's fist, though he wasn't looking at the human as he did so.

"Now."

The crowd began to boo at X for interfering, only to then go silent after X made a bestial roar.

"The first person I find to cause a problem with either her or me dies."

The crowd went silent and X followed Alex to where he believed was the room she would use before her matches. Alex though closed the door on X, which while X could understand why didn't mean that it was going to stop him.

Alex was undoing the wrappings that were covering her arms and fists. And then cleaned up herself. She then gave herself some medical care, and after that started to change into something that would allow her to go unnoticed.

"So, you want to tell me why you almost killed that man?", said X.

Alex's face went dark by color and she kind of screamed a bit, which was followed by her trying to cover herself. When she noticed it was X, she then gave another glare at him.

"Why do you keep on doing that?! If someone was in here with me then they would think that your- "

"I am not a pervert. Besides, this is not the first time that I have seen you like this.", said X who was pointing to Alex's whole body, "And it was only once. Making this time to be the second time."

"That's not the point!", said Alex, who was still embarrassed of what occurred.

"Maybe, if you hadn't closed the door on me, just like you chose the hard way back then. Things wouldn't have happened as they did."

"I was 4 years old, and you wanted me to take a bath! What did you expect?!"

"I didn't expect you to give me the middle finger as a child. How your mother allowed you to learn that is beyond me."

Alex then looked away; she didn't want X to be here. She didn't want to be with him.

"Now are you going to answer me. What made you seek to kill that man?"

Alex avoided making eye contact even if X was still wearing a mask, though what came as an answer was not exactly something that X could talk down.

"He insulted mom. He called her a…...", what Alex said was made with hard consonants.

The answer was unexpected, though X understood her situation. He wouldn't let anyone get away with insulting a family member.

"I can't tell you that you weren't justified to start beating him up, but you can't kill someone because of that. I know what that's like, and it doesn't make you feel better."

"He was a Lightborn, so I doubt that it would matter. Cause all of those Guardians, think that their free from consequence for any actions or mistakes they make."

"Is that what this is about? The people who did the deed are already dead, Alex. You don't need to keep seeing them in every Guardian that you come across."

Alex looked like she was about to burst out yelling, and looked at X's masked face. It was then that X remembered that Alex's eyes have been looking more like Awoken eyes in a sense as she got older. Her pupils were blue and the part that would be the white of her eyes were also blue, and the part of the eye that would be colorful was instead black in color.

"THERE ALL THE SAME!", yelled Alex, who started to calm down, but took a seat and placed her head in her hands, "Before it happened. I had to live in my mom's apartment every single day ever since I was born. But because of where it was located, I would hear every single word spoken. And I could handle the talks about Vex, Hive, and Cabal. But every time I heard a mention of the Fallen, I just wanted to scream. 'Did you hear about the Guardian that killed the murderer Taniks? Good thing Taniks was a Fallen otherwise we would've had to do a trial and that wouldn't have been satisfying for what he did.', 'I heard that Fallen lay eggs, if we find out where they store them then we can end their threat once and for all.', 'I say kill every Fallen that you see, the only good Fallen is a dead Fallen.', I was sick of it all. And then of course, I find out that you've been working with some Guardians and would babysit their Lightborn kids. I wonder how much they hate the Fallen."

X then noticed another chair, grabbed it, and took a seat on it. He then looked at with his hands folded.

"Allen and his team are not like everyone else, and that goes double for their kids."

"Then why did you not let me interact with them?"

"I knew how you would react, and with how those kids are so…chatty. It would probably lead to the same end result. I believed that it was best for you and them, that they didn't know about you nor you them."

Alex lifted her head and looked at X.

"I ran away because of the fact that I was sick and tired of never going out and having to deal with all that Last City….", Alex used an Eliksni term that could probably be translated into something to do with a bull's excrement, "I just…...I just wanted to find a place where I belonged. Where I can be me without anyone judging me."

"And because of the fact that your mom was an Awoken, you believed that you needed to go to the home of the Awoken."

"…they told me who my father is."

"*sigh* Of course they did, when I see Petra again; I am going to give her an ear full."

"I was treated like I was a wanted criminal, but I didn't do anything. The only crime they could come up with was that I existed in the first place."

"And when you met the Eliksni?"

"They are not Eliksni. Their Fallen, and they called me a Half-breed when being nice and an Abomination when being rude as well as subjecting me to their own form of prejudice. Spider was the only one who found me to be promising and so gave me a job and a place to stay. I didn't even need to pay him back for anything."

"That has to do with the fact that he was repaying me through you. The Spider doesn't do anything unless it's in his interest, plus, I am sure that you and him had some good conversations when it came to talking about Terra's culture."

"We might've chat for a bit. Though I mostly helped the other Fallen in his service in understanding what Spider is doing."

Alex then remembered that she needed to change her clothes, which prompted her to signal X to turn around and not look at her, though she did so with what could probably be described as a red face if her face could turn red that is. X did so but more so to make Alex feel comfortable than because of anything else, for some reason he didn't understand what the problem was with him looking. Alex then changed her clothes and then asked why she should go back with him.

"You do realize that I have been worried about you ever since you disappeared 6 years ago, right? And then when I find out that you're in the custody of the Awoken of the Reef, I had to go there just to pick you up. And then when I got there, I am told that you ended up escaping their custody. I didn't look for you because I then was told about the Red Legion invading the Last City. You know how worried I got after the Red Legion practically took over the system, I was deathly scared about what could've happened to you! And now that I've found you, you aren't going to leave my sight from now on."

"I wonder if anyone in that damn city knows how I feel now."

X then took a deep breath.

"I know that you are still traumatized by that day, Alex. But you can't always vent your frustrations on everyone just to make yourself feel better. I know how it feels to be like you, and I know that I can't change your mind. But I would rather just help you understand that everything is not black and white as you see it."

Alex wasn't exactly someone who could be convinced just by meeting someone for the first time that they are not like the ones that she has encountered. Though that ends up making people that she meets think that she is not being nice to them for no good reason, and that they hadn't done anything to her. But that didn't mean that she wouldn't eventually open up to them, as long as they don't end up doing anything that ruins their chances then everything will most likely be ok.

"I can take care of myself you know. After all, you were the one who decided to teach me how to do it."

"That may be true, but you've gotten sloppy. As evidenced by the use of first aid and the…...", X picked up a box and read what its title said, "Ether Pills? So, now there turning Ether into medical pills. First it was Ether Cola, now they decided to make Ether Pills. What's next, Ether flavored ice-cream?"

"I get it already. You just don't like it how people have been making money off of Ether to the Fallen. And that I have not been training as much as I did when you were first teaching me. But I can still knock one of those 'well-trained' Guardians on their asses."

"I know.", said X who now noticed that Alex covered parts of her that showed that she was an Eliksni, then the average person would assume that she is a Human or more likely an Awoken. Which to be honest that makes sense for while the Eliksni DNA in her appears to be dominant, there are a few traces of her Awoken heritage on her. Like for instance, she is not solely dependent on Ether to survive but has to have some every so often, and she doesn't have needle-like teeth but instead her teeth are fewer in number compared to other Eliksni but appear more…shark-like, it is difficult for X to describe them seeing as they just appear like triangular, and are a bit wider at the base compared to most. Though he has been told that her smile is apparently creepy because of her teeth.

X though noticed that Alex felt uncomfortable. Though he knew why she felt like that. It has happened to him at times.

"Ok tough girl, bring it here.", said X, who was walking up to Alex and gave her a hug. Alex was a bit surprised but returned it nonetheless.

"I…. I- "

"I missed you too. And if you don't want to come back with me then its ok, but I want to be notified on where you are?"

Alex thought for a moment.

"No. I…. I think it's about time that I returned home. I didn't like staying in this place anyway.", said Alex as a small tear formed in the corner of her eye, for though she doesn't admit it. She had made a mistake in running away from the man who raised her, who gave her a life without fear of anything wrong happening. A life of joy and family that she was unable to get even though her mother did all she could to give her a deserving childhood.

X and Alex then went to leave the Spider's Palace together, a father and a daughter together after 6 years of searching. They had left through the entrance into the Spider's Palace, though a figure that had a slouched posture watched as they left together. The figure then began to ponder the meaning of this display.

"If the Nine wills it, then it is done. But I believe that I should notify them of X Nevermore and the young Alex Wolfborn being reunited after all these years.", said Xur, Agent of the Nine and a member of the Jovian Race who live on the Jovian Planets of the Krein and Sol Systems with the latter system being made up of Jovian colonies.

As X and Alex had left the Palace, the Spider had been thinking about who he would sell the Trans-reality comet ore. He thought about the Galra, but seeing as Voltron was around and his son, though he is proud of, has unfortunately joined the Voltron Coalition instead of returning to Earth. And the Bounty Hunter that he tasked with "convincing" one of the paladins to surrender to the Galra, thereby giving his son no choice but to either return to the Garrison or rejoin the Syndicate. The Bounty hunter failed, though what made Spider more disappointed was that his son had to wintess the "exchange" between the Paladin and the hired Bounty Hunter. Spider might like Human culture that had been introduced to the Golden Age of the Krein system, but he wasn't above killing members of the human race if they didn't contribute to that culture. He was able to smuggle works of art from Earth and replaced them with nearly identical replicas, so that he could put them into his collection. The authorities on Earth haven't realized this yet, but even if they do, it would be difficult to retrieve them from the Spider.

Not to mention that if he was giving away information on the Galra to their enemies, then its about time that he starts to sever his ties with their decaying empire. Though he had plan to do so anyway, after a certain Galra had him hand over half of his collection of dead Ghosts by using the bargain he struck with Emperor Zarkon all those years ago. Nobody threatens the Spider and gets away with it, nobody abuses the Spider's generosity and gets away with it. Siviks, his brother, was made an example of what happens to those who cross the Spider and don't apologize for the wrongs they committed to him. The Spider will enjoy watching as the Galra Empire burns, he will enjoy being a part of its destruction.

That though reminded him of someone whom his technicians had acquired information on through intercepting transmissions. Apparently, a Cabal Legion had been sent out on a mission to destroy the Galra Empire, and though he avoided making business with the Red Legion; this Black Legion, these Deathbringers, could be a potential business partner. The Spider then called for his associates to leave the room, and as they did so, he had placed a call for the Cabal or at least any of them that would answer it.

Luckily, his call was answered, "This is Primus Tha'naton of the Black Legion, the Deathbringers. Who is this and why do you call?"

"You can call me Spider, my friend. And well, let's just say that I have a…... proposition, that would be in your best interest to hear. After all, I hear that you are going to break the Galra Empire, so what if I told you that I have something in my possession that could allow your conquest to be much easier.", said the Spider who was currently looking at a holographic screen projection of the Primus of the Deathbringers.

If Spider could see the Primus's face, then he would know that he has caught the interest of his customer.

"I'm listening.", said Primus Tha'naton, who would then strike a deal with the Spider for the Trans-reality comet ore.

Though things had been either escalating or in the case of others rejuvenating. An ancient race began to stir on the planet where the Black and Red Paladins had crashed not that long ago. The Hive on this planet believed that they could capture the paladins for their own nefarious purposes, though why is that? Why would worshippers of the Sword Logic, the Logic of Death seek to take two prisoners?

The answer comes from who it is that rules over them. They are still followers of the Sword Logic, but they do not do so for sating the hungers of the Worms. They do so to feed their own hunger, which has allowed them to survive despite the pact of the Worm gods that shackle their people requiring them to feed the worms in exchange for immortality. The Hive of this world made a pact with something much grandeur than the Worms, they made a pact with the Deep itself. It was their god who brought them out of the dependance on the worms, for she was the one who made the pact with the Deep itself. In order that her people no longer keep a bargain that clearly benefits the Worm gods more so than the Hive themselves.

But at the moment, the god was asleep. For a battle that was fought long ago left her injured and required that her injuries be treated. She was brought to this world by her followers, and placed into a pool that was carved from the very earth after they had created the deepest chamber in the entirety of the Hive Nest. But what was the pool filled with? Quintessence of course, for to the Hive it is the nectar of Life itself. They could extract it from plants and animals in order to feed the worms but for this brood, it fed them. But the Hive made other uses of this substance that while having a relation with the Sky, it also possessed a relationship to the Deep as well.

And on the surface of the planet a bargain was struck between the Hive and another race, but to make the bargain a secret and to exploit it to their own ends. Both sides made certain conditions in order for it to remain. The Hive wished for a percentage of the supply of Quintessence that would be harvested and in exchange they would offer members of their brood who would be used in any way they pleased. The other race wished for the Hive to teach them their magics for extracting Quintessence from all forms of life and to learn how it can be used in certain ways and in exchange, they would leave the Hive alone and would keep their location a secret. The Bargain was made, and the exchanges have continued for the last 10,000 years without stop.

But now, the last shipment of Quintessence has been delivered and the Hive have taught the last of their magics to the other race. The bargain has been met. And as an escort of Hive Acolytes and Knights were transporting the Quintessence to its final destination. Two figures stood within the chamber of the sleeping god.

"The last shipment has been delivered. Once it arrives, we will have all that we need for the ritual.", said a Female Hive, whose appearance was that of a Hive Witch. Though this Hive's voice had a bit of cunning to her voice, a mark that was placed on her because of the god she serves.

"Tell me. Why should we conduct the ritual when the Demon has returned? Won't it and its chosen end up causing the same result? Or has the High Celebrant of Savathun already conducted a scheme that will allow history to not repeat itself.", said the other Hive who was a male Hive Knight. His voice was not full of worry, in fact, you could say that he was threatening that this had better not be a waste of their time. After all, what they were about to do could not be repeated without the harvest of 10,000 years' worth of Quintessence once again.

"I don't need to conduct a scheme, for one has already been conducted since the start of all this. Though it was unfortunate that the Demon had been used against us, it's creation will be worth it in the long run. The Witchqueen though, suspects that her puppet is losing her strings, and by extension the other two puppets are losing their strings. But for now, she is still on the path that Savathun has been manipulating from the background since the beginning of all this. And should that puppet fall, then she won't need to find a replacement the Son of the Crota's killer has already found one. All that matters is that we proceed as planned.", said the High Celebrant of Savathun.

The Knight was skeptical of this, the fact that they were aiding the Brood of Exile was nerve racking as it is. He also didn't like having to work with a disciple of the god of cunning. Why his god wanted him here, was something that he could only speculate. But seeing as the Taken have been appearing in the Chamber of the Exiled One, he suspected he could understand the reason.

"What interest would the Witchqueen have with the Exiled One?", said the Hive knight, who questioned the validity of this plan.

"The same as your own god, though I suspect that mine has more personal reasons for doing this. After all, she does want to help her niece to feel better. And who knows, maybe one of us will have her favor one of her aunts."

Well, that was definitely an interesting chapter now isn't it. Though I kind of feel unsatisfied with it in a sense. Which has to do more so that I feel like I might've rushed the part with Alex and X, but I wanted Alex to end up traveling with X and Twilight because Alex Wolfborn would present a type of dynamic where she is a reminder that not all Guardians are the shining beacons of hope to everyone. The reason why is because for every hero there is a monster, and sometimes the heroes of one people are the monsters to another people. This will also be brought up later down the line, when we start getting into X's past. Though it mostly has to do with what he learned about his people.

Now I will once again ask you guys, what should I do as the central part of Chapter 7. Should I continue with the Hive or should I enter the next phase of the main characters? The decision with the most requests will be the focus of Chapter 7.

And with that, I will be seeing you guys in Chapter 7. Farewell.