Mild disclaimer. I again, do not own anything referenced in this. I'm looking at you, Disney

A side note, I had hoped to finish this story before season six airs, but I doubt that's going to happen. I have a pretty concrete outline for this story for once, so the plot of season six will not affect it. Any similarities to plot lines, as unlikely as that is, are completely coincidental!

The ballroom filled with excited chatter and applause, but Lance heard nothing as though in a vacuum. Keith was the galra in the black feathered mask. Keith was a member of the House of Lethua, Zarkon's own family. The young lord... Lotor's betrothed... It all fell into place.

Nausea from all the revelations threatened to overwhelm him. Even Lotor's reaction just minutes ago... OH GOD! He'd hit on Keith so hard! Keith! Oh why couldn't he have just taken Kolivan's advice?!

A hand on his arm made Lance look up into Talias's concerned eyes and he realized he was hyperventilating. Her arm traveled behind his back and he let her lead him away from the dance floor. They reached a lounge off the ballroom and she insisted, "Sit. You look faint."

He fell back onto the couch and put his head in his hands. Keith had lit the Kral Zera and married Lotor. It sounded more and more incredulous with every repetition. Hands worked behind his head and his mask fell away. He saw Talias set his mask on a table and looked at his wrist which she held between her fingers. She instructed, "Breath in for four seconds. Exhale for eight. You're having a panic attack."

Right. She was a doctor. But he wasn't ready to calm down. "Why didn't he tell me? Was he afraid we'd reject him for being gay? Was it because he joined the empire?"

She sat beside him on the edge of the couch and squeezed his hand. "Shh, Lance. Keith will tell all after the masquerade."

"Lance, there you are!" Allura said in relief. The other paladins flooded in behind her, but stopped when they saw the galra in the room. Allura began, "Princess Talias-"

Then Matt and Talias's sister entered followed by Kolivan practically dragging Shiro. Talias turned to her sister and said, "Calm them down and do not let them return to the ballroom until they understand the delicate situation we're in. I'm due for my dance with Lotor. He'd better have a good reason for escalating this."

The woman in the eggshell dress met Lance's eyes. "I think I already know." Lance flinched and she looked back to her sister. "Go, Talias. Keith will need your guidance."

"Thank you, Krolia, and keep an eye on Lance. His heart rate is still elevated."

Allura rushed to the couch and grabbed Lance's hand. "Lance, do you know what this means?"

Everyone was talking at once, except Shiro, who looked angrier with every passing second. At last, he asked, voice low with quiet rage that instantly silenced the room, "How long?" When no one answered, he lunged for Kolivan, gripping his shirt in both fists and pinning him to the wall. "Is this the 'mission' you sent Keith on? To infiltrate the empire's high command? He's just a kid! This is too dangerous for him!"

"Shiro!" Allura called as Krolia drew Kolivan's blade and held it to Shiro's neck.

Kolivan said evenly, "Stand down, agent. He's right to be angry with me. Krolia, allow me to formally introduce you to Takashi Shirogane."

Krolia asked, "You're his legal guardian?"

Shiro spared her a glance. His grip on Kolivan loosened in his confusion. "How do you know about that?"

Krolia lowered Kolivan's blade. "Release my leader, and I will explain what I can."

Keith returned to Lotor after dancing with Talias. Lotor breathed in his ear, "I'm sorry I did not wait until the tournament. Can you forgive me?"

Keith kissed Lotor's neck and returned, "It took me by surprise, nothing more. I never labeled you a jealous lover. But, if Shiro is the one behind the next assassination attempt, you brought it upon yourself."

"I think I'll heed your warning and lay low around him until this blows over."

They traded partners and danced for a time before the paladins emerged. Keith walked over and reached out a hand. "Krolia, may I have this dance?"

Krolia gazed up at Kolivan. "Perhaps the next song, child."

Kolivan kissed her wrist and led her to the floor. Hunk mused, "Huh, never thought I'd see him relax like that, let alone with Zarkon's sister."

Keith watched them dance. They alternated who was leading in a balance of power and he replied, "She's incredible. I've learned a lot in the week I've known her. Turns out, they've been courting for close to thirty years. She's practically my stepmom and I love her already."

"Hey now," Pidge joked, "what happened to Shiro being your 'dad'?"

Keith gasped and looked at Shiro. The black paladin's scowl reached new heights and he uncrossed his arms before walking away. Keith bit his lip and murmured, "I was afraid of that."

Matt patted Keith's arm and said, "I'll talk to him, and Keith... it's good to see you again." He quirked a quick smile and jogged after Shiro.

Allura placated, "Give him time, Keith. He'll come around."

Keith nodded. "I hope so. Lotor jumped the gun. I wanted to tell you all later on my own terms."

Coran twirled his mustache and lifted an eyebrow. "So... Lotor... he's a fine young man. How did you meet, perchance?"

"Oh my god," Keith snorted. "I've had this conversation like, eight times already."

The music ended and Lotor thanked his partner before wandering over. He put a hand on Keith's waist and kissed his temple. "I see the danger is past for the moment. I was wondering if I could redeem that dance, Allura."

"Ah, yes! I'd love to, Lotor." She let go of Lance's hand and walked to meet Lotor.

Keith grinned and bowed. "Miss Holt, would you honor me with a dance?"

Pidge beamed and held the side of her skirt. "The honor's all mine, my lord."

They giggled as Keith took her hand and brought them to the dance floor. He guided her into position and mentioned, "I'll lead." He taught her the simple dance amid laughter at their screw ups. Once she had the hang of it, he improvised for fun, making conversation along the way. "You look incredible, by the way. I'm glad the dress fits well. I had to guess a bit."

Pidge spun out then back into his chaste embrace. "I loved it the moment I saw it. Thank you for thinking of it. The bust was a bit tight, but the fabric is very forgiving."

"It's having a second effect I'd hoped for a well." He twirled her in his arms with her back to his chest and whispered in her ear, "Hunk has hardly taken his eyes off of you all evening. Has he worked up the courage to kiss you yet?"

"He's only jus- wait! How did you know he liked me?"

Keith grinned. "I read his diary. He's wanted to kiss you for a while now, and with that movie you two went to a couple weeks ago..." Pidge opened her mouth, but he explained first, "I swiped Lance's phone to get a hold of Kolivan."

"He said he lost it! Did he know the whole time?"

Keith shook his head. "The attack before the Pratic System conquest was when he found me out. Lotor and I were working together for months before that."

Pidge teased, "So Lotor... are you two... eh?"

Keith rolled his eyes with a smile that wouldn't fade. "No, not like that at least."

Pidge squealed and bit her lip earning a glance from a nearby couple. "I mean, he is your type. Oh my god, this explains every crush you've ever had! He's tall, super smart, and has great hair."

"I hardly think your brother was tall when I had a crush on him."

"You were short, Keith. Everyone except me was taller than you back then," Pidge replied. "I hope this doesn't make things weird with Lance."

"Pidge," Keith denied, "he clearly wasn't interested in anything more than friendship before I left the team. He's not ready for a longterm relationship."

"And Lotor is?"

Keith bit his lip and nodded. "It may sound weird, but he knows how to speak to me. He calms even my most heated temper flares and we've been a team stabilizing the empire. He's good for me, and I hope I'm good for him."

"Aww, Keith, you're such a softie."

Allura noticed Pidge and Keith laughing and said, "They're having fun. I don't believe I've thanked you yet for inviting us. Though, I must admit, I was worried for a moment."

"I thought you seemed more tense than usual."

She blushed. "You're going to think it foolish, but Lance had me half convinced you were romantically interested in me."

"Oh dear. How so? I never intended to distress you," Lotor's voice rose in genuine concern.

"It started with the flowers."

"The flowers? Talias said they were Keith's idea. He knew how much you missed them."

"How sweet," Allura cooed. "That explains the note. One thing led to another and well, I feel a little ridiculous even bringing it up."

"Allura," Lotor said in utter seriousness, "you are an incredible woman and will make someone an amazing wife, but do not worry that I wish to be that someone. I respect you all the more for telling me your troubles. And... I know that by altean standards, you are gorgeous, but honestly, and don't take this the wrong way, you're not my type."

"No offense taken," Allura admitted easily. "I'm glad someone fits your interests."

"It's... well, now I'm embarrassed." Lotor thought for a moment then explained, "Keith is everything I could hope for in a spouse. He's clever, caring... beautiful. You should see him with children... or sparring. I could watch him spar all day. Yet, it's how he loves me that I realize how special he is. He's... honest like I've never had in a companion. He holds me accountable and pushes me to better myself. I mean, he even loves my ears!"

Allura smiled charmingly. "Of course he would. Your ears are elegant."

"No they aren't! I was teased relentlessly growing up and resented how they separated me from other galra children. Why do you think I grew out my hair? No, my ears are hideous," Lotor practically snarled, then said softer, "but Keith loves them. I'm his fairy tale prince he's always dreamed of. How could I not fall in love with him? This is going to make me sound foolish, but I think I loved him the moment I saw him. I didn't even know his name and I was ready to die for him."

"Love in a glance, the most pure of altean love. You and Keith are lucky to be together and I wish you both the very best in your futures."

"And you have our goodwill as well, Princess."

Keith watched Hunk slowly lead Pidge through the galra version of the waltz he'd taught the giant teddy bear. They were both nervous and awkward. All blushes, smiles, and laughter. It was adorable.

Then he sighed. Matt and Shiro still hadn't returned. It looked like he'd have to deal with it personally after all. He walked out to the garden where the night air was crisp and the light breeze smelt of flowers. He took a deep breath and went searching for his friends. He found them leaning on a stone railing overlooking a fountain lit up from below.

He cleared his throat and asked, "May I have a word with Shiro, please?"

Shiro didn't turn. Matt leaned back and rested a hand on Keith's shoulder. "Good luck."

Keith closed his eyes and nodded. Matt squeezed and left. Keith took the place he'd vacated while leaving a noticeable gap between them. Shiro clenched his jaw, refusing to meet Keith's eyes. Keith began slowly, "Shiro... I don't know what to say besides I'm sorry. I know you're angry. Please... talk to me?"

He was quiet. It was almost scarier than when he yelled, as rare as that was. Then his wall shattered and he said as if unable to stop, "Of course I'm angry, Keith. I worry. It's who I am. Pidge, Hunk, Lance... all of them are my responsibility. Then there's you and Matt out there doing god knows what and I don't know you're safe. Matt checks in all the time, but you...? Keith, I'm lucky if I heard from you once a month! Then you went completely silent."

He clenched his fist and emphasized, "I know the blades don't openly discuss what they do in the shadows, I do, really, but I had no idea where you were. Then Kolivan tells me he didn't know where you were either. I thought... Keith, buddy, we're closer than this. It hurt a lot that you didn't trust me to come for help when you were in trouble."

Keith's lip trembled and he fought back tears. "I'm sorry, Shiro. It just seemed too big. I didn't want to burden everyone with what I got myself into. You guys had so much already after Zarkon..."

Shiro looked at him and gasped, eyes wide, then pulled Keith to his chest. "Hey, don't cry. You'll wreck your mascara."

"It's all your fault!" Keith sobbed out, "I was scared and you... you reacted exactly how I thought you'd... Stop laughing at me!"

Shiro held the back of Keith's head, keeping him against his shaking chest. "I can't help it. This... This whole situation is ridiculous. I always thought you'd be crying because you broke up with a boy, not... oh god, this..." He broke into a giggle fit unable to stop. He leaned on the railing bent double gasping for breath. "I'm sorry, Keith. I know you feel terrible about everything."

Keith sniffed before wiping at his eyes. Shiro grabbed his hands and forced him to stop. "That'll only make it worse. Here, sit." Keith sat on the railing and removed his mask to blow his nose on a handkerchief. Shiro materialized a travel kit from his pocket revealing blotting paper, eyeliner, and mascara. Keith sat up so Shiro could fix his streaky mess.

"Whoa, whoever did your makeup is incredible, and don't lie, we both know it wasn't you," Shiro teased.

Keith smiled involuntarily. "Even you could learn a thing or two from Talias."

Shiro dabbed at Keith's face. "So you and Talias... you're close?"

"Mm-hmm. She took care of me when I was injured at the Kral Zera. We... uh... took a bit to learn one another, but I do love her like a mother. My necklace... she said it marks me as a son of her family."

"Wow... I kind of regret blowing up on her earlier. So then Kolivan and... Krolia is it? You spoke about... uh..."

Keith looked up and away as Shiro fixed his mascara. "I didn't really understand it either until I began to learn more about galra culture."

Shiro finished up while Keith explained the subtleties of galra intimacy. "Alright, if you put the mask back on, I don't think anyone will be wise to your emotional break."

"Thanks, Shiro."

"Oh, don't thank me yet. You owe me."

Keith blanched. "Shiro, no!"

"Shiro, yes! You know the agreement and you're the one who insisted on a blood pact." Shiro grinned and put his makeup away. "And Matt gets to tell the story."

Keith covered his face and groaned. "Fine! But drop me, and you're dead." Shiro laughed and pulled Keith under his arm to fluff his hair. Keith muttered, "I don't know why you're laughing. This is just as embarrassing for you as it is for me." Shiro only laughed harder.

Lance watched the floor with almost angry boredom. He couldn't believe everything he'd said since discovering Keith with the red lion in the gardens. Keith hadn't said anything about being Lotor's consort, but Lance's demands and questions seemed so rude and out of place now that he knew.

"I'm surprised you aren't dancing," Lotor mused aloud. "Keith spoke often of how much you enjoy music and dance."

Lance huffed above crossed arms. "The mood was ruined." Then hesitantly, he asked, "How often does Keith speak about me?"

"He talks about all of you all the time. You paladins are the only family he had before Kolivan became his mentor. I only hope Shiro is easier to win over than my aunt's lover."

Keith and Shiro chose this moment to enter stage left. Keith stomped toward the musicians shaking his head, but Shiro practically skipped over to them. Matt asked worriedly, "What did you do, Takashi?" Shiro giggled and covered his mouth. Matt's jaw dropped. "No! No you aren't!"

Shiro nodded. "He knows there's no way out."

Matt squealed and began cackling before covering his mouth. He earned a bizarre look from the nearby dancers. Keith walked over and grabbed the front of Lotor's shirt. Lotor gasped as he was yanked down for a passionate kiss that lasted an uncomfortably long time for those watching. When Keith finally broke it off, Lotor asked breathlessly, "What was that for?"

"I'm apologizing in advance for everything you're about to witness." Then he let Shiro lead him to the center of the dance floor.

They took up their positions and stood frozen waiting for the music. The other dancers backed off, waiting expectantly. Keith heard the first bars start and bent his knees to sway his hips, hands running down his chest and stomach with intense desire.

Matt was practically shrieking as he slapped Pidge's arm repeatedly. "You're recording, right?"

Pidge nodded as she stared at the phone in her hand she'd whipped out of her garter belt much to Kolivan's surprise and disbelief. She replied, "There's no way in hell I'd miss this chance."

"I'm still trying to figure out what exactly I'm seeing," Hunk whispered to Lance.

"Don't ask me," Lance answered.

Keith had crossed to Shiro with wide deliberate steps in time to the beat. He was almost past Shiro when the older man caught his extended arm. Keith leaned away almost diagonal to the floor before Shiro pulled him back. Keith spun too many times to count as he snapped into Shiro's arms against his chest.

They began to dance, steps close, twisting around each other. Keith bent his legs in sharp angles between and around Shiro's legs in a provocative manner. Not to mention, the lusty expression in his half-lidded eyes and slightly parted mouth that had no right being directed at the figure of his brotherly affection. Lotor cleared his throat. Lance looked over to see the lower half of Lotor's face covered by a splayed hand, eyes locked on Keith as he performed the most suggestive dance Lance had ever seen. He felt his jaw drop and looked at Keith. He wasn't directing that expression at Shiro at all! OH MY GAWD!

"I can't watch this," Allura said while blushing fiercely. She covered her face with her hands, then immediately looked through her fingers.

"I think I'm going to be blind by the end, but I can't look away," Hunk replied.

The crowd was clapping along with the beat, absorbed in the theatrics. Then Keith kicked backward until he was practically straight up in the air above Shiro with his hand on Shiro's shoulder. Shiro caught him against his body as Keith's legs churned serpent-like, pointed toes brushing the floor as Shiro spun them. Keith's hand held the side of Shiro's face, his cheek pressed to Shiro's pecs. When Shiro set Keith down, Keith dropped into a crouch with one leg straight out between Shiro's legs. He stood up, slowly, dragging his hands across Shiro's thighs, then his stomach, and finally his chest.

This was too much. The routine went on for nearly another minute before ending with Keith laying face down on the floor with his legs twined around Shiro's. The crowd erupted and Shiro dropped to hug Keith where he sat up. Keith buried his face in Shiro's shoulder, clearly embarrassed. Shiro laughed and spoke in his ear before ruffling his hair. Keith shook his head and shoved Shiro's face away.

Matt and Pidge ran out onto the floor and practically tackled the other two. The music resumed normalcy and the four of them returned to the other paladins. Hunk rubbed his eyes. "Why? Why did you do that?"

Pidge crowed, "That was brotherly payback!"

"You weren't even there," Matt clarified. He wrapped his arms around Keith's sweaty shoulders. "It was a few weeks after Shiro was granted full custody of Keith. Katie and our parents were out of town for a school thing and Shiro brought over a case of beer to celebrate. Keith drank, like, a beer and a half and was so drunk he was convinced I had to learn the Argentine Tango."

"It was like, six," Keith refuted.

Shiro laughed. "We have video evidence to the contrary."

Keith shoved Matt off. "Yeah, yeah, I was sixteen. Give me a break."

"You broke my mother's end-table!"

"Actually, that was me, sis," Matt admitted. "We only convinced Keith to stop by telling him Shiro was me so I 'knew' how to tango."

"And I've held it over him ever since," Shiro finished.

Keith pointed out, "Hey, it went both ways. You took that dance class in college thinking it would help you get girls, but it backfired when your eyeliner and the gay teacher convinced your classmates you played on my team."

Matt laughed and added, "You were so oblivious. He asked you out on like, a dozen coffee dates and you said yes to every one of them."

"I was being polite!"

"So it became our ultimate apology. Dance the tango in public," Keith said from the safety of Lotor's arms.

"Anyway," Shiro said with a roll of his eyes, "I'm sorry I freaked out, Lotor. I was at fault and I hope you can forgive me."

Lotor squeezed Keith. "Of course, Shiro. You're Keith's family and I wouldn't hold something so trivial against you." He leaned forward and whispered in Keith's ear, "Though, I would like a moment alone, dear heart."

Keith's eyes widened and he rolled his lips in realization. Clearing his throat, he turned in Lotor's arms and they walked off to a lounge. Shiro covered his mouth and looked at Matt. "Oh god, what have I done?"

Matt lost it again, earning more strange looks, and Pidge groaned, "Gross."

When Keith and Lotor returned, the prince's lips were smeared with Keith's lipstick. Krolia pulled Keith aside and started fixing his lipstick with her own color stick. "I hope you didn't leave any marks, Lotor."

Keith smirked. "Not where anyone will see them."

Krolia fought a laugh and failed. Lightly smacking Keith's arm, she chastised, "You naughty thing. Now go. Kolivan is waiting to dance with you."

Keith puckered his freshly painted lips at Lotor and winked before wandering in search of Kolivan. The dance floor was more than half emptied as the hour grew late. He danced with the galra he loved like a father. At the end, he put his forehead to Kolivan's chest, and Kolivan pressed his to Keith's hair. The long moment passed. Then Kolivan went to Krolia and they left the ballroom together.

Lotor was dancing with Talias. Allura was with Shiro. Matt was with Coran of all people. And team punk was at it again. Keith walked to Lance. "Wanna dance?"

"Not really."

"Oh come on, Lancey-Lance. It'll be fun. Unless you're scared to dance with a guy of course. Even one whose eyes left you speechless," Keith teased and looked up sideways batting his lashes. "Come on, McClain. You're wasted on the sidelines."

Keith took his hand and pulled him onto the dance floor. Lance hesitated, so Keith put his hand on his waistline. Lance asked as Keith started to lead, "Could you ever imagine dancing like this before you left the castle?" Keith snorted and Lance corrected, "I mean, of course you would. You're ga- into men. It'd be weird for you to dance with girls."

"Calm down, Lance. It's just a dance. Two friends moving in time to music. It's not rocket science." Keith smiled up at him. "I wish you had danced more. You do love to."

"Lotor doesn't seem too pleased after earlier when I..." Lance stopped talking and Keith knew his cheeks were as red as the lion mask on his face.

"He'll get over it. You're hardly the first person to flirt with me tonight, and they already knew something was up."

Lance raised an eyebrow. "Wait." He leaned forward and sniffed Keith's neck loudly. "Are you two using the same cologne?"

Keith laughed so hard he lost their place in the pattern. When they picked it back up, he answered, "Something like that. I didn't think humans could pick up on his scent."

"That's gross, Kogane."

"How is it any different than wearing his sweatshirt?" Keith challenged.

Lance tipped his head in defeat. "Alright, then, but Krolia seemed to think it was my fault that Lotor made your announcement. I mean, everyone else was probably just fishing for info, but you and I... we have history."

"Pardon?" Keith asked, looking up quickly.

Lance's neck turned red around his shirt collar. "You know what I- That we are friends. That we knew each other."

"Oh. I suppose. But Lotor is really cute when he's jealous. He always acts so calm and collected. It's nice to know he isn't sometimes, you know?"

Lance didn't respond for a minute. Then, "Why did you sign me up for the tournament if you were planning on exposing yourself after the masquerade?"

"I don't know, it was just a bit of fun. You were so flustered. I don't usually see you like that either." Keith spun Lance around and went in for a dip. "You'll be fine though. I can teach you how to use the flitch-bow tomorrow if you like."

"That's probably fair since you volunteered me for something I've never done before. What do I get if I win the tournament?"

Keith smirked and raised a flirty eyebrow. "If you win the tournament, a large if may I add, I'll give you a ride on my halliaballus."

Lance's lips twisted and he lowered his brows suggestively. "Uh, I'm not familiar with that euphemism. Care to elaborate?"

Keith laughed openly and shoved Lance's leering face away. "Oh my god, you are such a perv!" Lance laughed along with him. Then the song came to an end. Keith looked over at the musicians. "Oh. I think that was their last song. It is getting late."

Lance put a hand on Keith's shoulder. "Hey, thanks for asking me to dance. It's nice being around you again. I... I missed this."

Keith pulled Lance in for a quick hug. "I missed this too. I'm glad I don't have to hide from you and the others anymore."

Lance's lanky arms circled his shoulders. "Never hide again. Promise?"

"Yeah, Lance, I promise," Keith said trying not to choke up.

Lance cleared his throat and stepped back. The other guests were leaving the ballroom and servants were starting to clean up and turn down the lights. The others made their way over. Talias kissed the top of Keith's head and announced, "If you'll follow me, I'll lead you all to your rooms."

"Oh, that's quite alright. We-"

Allura elbowed Shiro in the stomach and said instead, "We'd love to, Princess."

Keith smirked and wrapped an arm around Lotor. "You'll be staying in the residential wing away from the other guests. I've got you bunking up, so we can do that sleepover we never got to."

They were chatting all the way, commenting on everything from Hunk's favorite foods from the night to the details in the architecture Coran liked. Keith stopped by the girls' room and said, "Help yourself to anything in the closets. The bathing chamber is between your room and the room Shiro and Matt are staying in."

When Lance and Hunk went to their room, Lance folded his arms in the doorway. "Where will you be sleeping?"

Lotor nibbled the top of Keith's ear and Keith answered, "We'll be down the hall in our room. Goodnight, guys. See you in the morning."

Hunk covered his mouth and laughed at Lance's dumbstruck face. Keith smirked and waved before they retired to their room. Keith was still buzzed from the vino when he sat at the vanity and removed first his mask, then his jewelry. His makeup was definitely smudged, but had survived the night. He grabbed the remover Talias had purchased for him and began the process of cleaning his skin. Lotor leaned on the vanity and turned Keith's face to kiss him. Lotor placed soft kisses on his jawline and Keith whined, "I haven't finished cleaning this mess off."

Lotor turned Keith's chair and sat in his lap chest to chest. "Don't bother. I don't mind."

Keith smirked against Lotor's lips and shrugged out of his vest. He lifted a gloved hand to Lotor's hair and began to tease the braid loose. Lotor moaned and stood back up. Lifting Keith from the chair, he held Keith's legs on either side of his waist and laid Keith down on the bed. The mattress bounced slightly from their sudden weight.

Lotor's deft fingers began untying the lacing holding Keith's shirt on. Keith bit Lotor's lip lightly and rolled so he was straddling Lotor on the bed. Raising his arms, he removed his shirt. Lotor's hands trailed up his abdomen, making him shiver. Lotor found Keith's wrists and flipped them again so he was on top. He held Keith's hands to the side, rendering him unable to grope his lover.

Keith whimpered, but didn't resist very hard. Lotor lowered his mouth to Keith's sensitive chest and pleasured their bodies as a fever pitch grew within them both. Then Lotor removed his belt and used it to secure Keith's hands to the headboard. He began untying his own boots and yanked Keith's pants down. The bruises he'd left on Keith's hips were plain as day. Keith's legs writhed on the bed pinned under Lotor's weight as he again gave Keith's hips the attention he craved. Keith's hips answered in kind, rising in rythym with Lotor's actions.

Keith moaned Lotor's name, neck flexing and back arching. Lotor's hands pressed down on Keith's stomach and chest and he murmured sweet coaxes and praise to his pretty boy. Keith knew his moans and husky breathing aroused the dark prince. "I... I don't know how much more I can take, Lotor." Keith twisted his wrists. "Should... should we really, hah, do this toni- ah!"

Keith screamed and his body spasmed as Lotor rubbed a sweet spot. Lotor raised his mouth to Keith's chest and sucked on his pert nipple. When Keith had control of his breathing again, Lotor looked into his eyes. "I will go only as far as you allow, beloved. Tell me to stop and-"

There was a banging on the door and a servant burst into the room. The door slammed into the wall leaving the servant to gawk at them in complete shock. He turned bright red and looked ready to faint at the sight of Keith tied naked to the bed with Lotor on top of him, the emperor's pants down around his thighs. "Fo-forgive me, my lords. I didn't mean to intrude, bu-but the paladins... they've invaded the bathing chamber!" The servant retreated, slamming the door behind them.

Lotor inhaled a long breath and exclaimed simply, "What?"

"Uh, I think you better untie me and we'll go see what the damage is."

Lotor's appraising gaze lingered on Keith's lips and he ran his tongue across his fangs. "What if I just left you here? Waiting... longing for my fingers across your skin... my tongue in your mouth..." Lotor emphasized his words by laying his full weight on Keith, his firmness pressed to Keith's waist, and trailed his talons down Keith's arms.

Keith shivered. "As much fun as that would be, imagine if someone walked in on me like that?"

Lotor's eyes widened and he sat up quickly. "Way to kill the mood."

Keith giggled and said, "Untie me and let's go."

Lotor obliged and they changed into pajamas before going to the bathing chamber. Keith covered his mouth as Hunk took a running jump into the large bath that resembled a swimming pool more than a bath. A wave rose up out of the tub and crashed into Lance and Pidge who joined Hunk a moment later screaming and shouting.

Allura, Matt, and Shiro were sitting in the one functioning bath that was more like Keith and Lotor's bath aboard the galactic hub. Lotor asked in horror, "What is happening?"

Keith grinned and pulled Lotor into the bathing chamber. "This, lover, is what we refer to when we talk about swimming!" Then Keith let go of Lotor and took a running leap into the pool with Hunk, Lance, and Pidge.

They all screamed as Keith splashed them again. He came up with his teeth chattering. "How can you stand this temperature?"

Lance was the only one able to keep from shivering. "What? Too cold for a hothead like you?"

Keith jumped forward and dunked Lance underwater. Lance swam out from under him and emerged on the edge of the pool laughing. Keith explained, "They haven't finished remodeling in here. The small tub is the only one that's hot."

Pidge wrapped her arms around Keith's neck. "Then that's where we go! Onward!"

Keith reached behind and lifted her piggyback style onto his back. He carried her to the edge and boosted her out. She was shivering as she walked in her underwear to the hot tub. Lance pulled himself out of the deep end. Apparently everyone was in their underwear.

Keith shook out his hair and grinned. "I'll be right back!"

He sprinted in his wet clothes back to his and Lotor's bedroom and grabbed the guitar Mr. Grey had brought from Earth. He ran back to find everyone submerged in the bath, even Lotor. He lifted the guitar over his head. "Who wants to do some karaoke?"

Lance gasped dramatically and threw a hand over his heart. "Who is this stranger? I do not recognize them."

Keith chuckled and rolled his eyes. "Is that a no?"

Lance gasped again and reached out. "No! Gimme!"

Keith laughed and passed the instrument to the flashy Cuban. Lance climbed out of the tub and sat on the edge tuning the instrument with intense focus. Within minutes, he was happy with it. "Any requests?"

"Little Mermaid!" Hunk shouted.

Lance laughed and began strumming. He said in his best impression of Sebastian the crab, "Ariel, listen to me. The human world is a mess. Life under the sea, is better than anything they've got up there."

He struck up a lively tune and began singing 'Under the sea'. The others joined in as the additional parts as the song progressed. Keith watched Lotor's incredulous reactions as even Allura sang along with the lines she knew. Lance finished the song with a flourish and said, "Lotor, you have no idea how long I've been trying to convince Keith to join us in karaoke. You have my eternal gratitude." He gave a mock bow and handed the instrument to Shiro.

Shiro strummed experimentally. Matt poked his arm. "Hercules."

Shiro grinned and began the soft introduction of 'Go the distance'. His voice swelled with the drama as the piece built to a climax. Allura was practically swooning and sighed as he brought the song to an end. Shiro strummed again. "How about another. Keith... I think you know this next one."

Keith snorted and ducked in the water. "Come on! I already did the tango!"

"Ah, you know I will just keep repeating the intro until you sing it. Best to get it over with, Megara."

Keith rolled his eyes and sang, "If there's a prize for rotten judgement, I guess I've already woooon that." He leaned on Lotor's shoulder and moped, "No man is worth the aggravation." His attention snapped back to Shiro and he jumped out of the bath. "That's ancient history, been there, done that!"

Matt and Shiro sang together, "Who'do'ya think you're kidding," they gestured to Lotor, "He's the earth and heaven to ya." The refrain continued as Lotor blushed taken completely by surprise by the five part harmony as everyone else joined in. Keith grabbed his head and went into the second verse. "Oooh, ooooooh. No chance, no way, I won't say it, no no!"

The others climbed out of the tub and began dancing around him, pointing and just being overall extremely enthusiastic. Finally, the song began to wind down and Keith climbed back into the tub. Sitting in Lotor's lap, he wrapped his hands behind Lotor's neck and vocalized, "At least, out loud... I won't say I'm in... Looooooove."

Lotor leaned down and kissed him making everyone screech and splash them both. Lotor laughed and hugged Keith to his chest. "You sing beautifully, beloved."

"He gets it from his dad," Shiro said. "Al could sing better than any live performer I've ever heard." He tossed the guitar back to Keith and said, "Give us a number, Keith."

Keith strummed, then raised an eyebrow at Pidge sitting too close to Hunk for normality. He smirked at Lance and began, "There you see her. Sitting there across the way. She don't got a lot to say, but there's something about her." He walked across the pool and leaned on Hunk's shoulder. "And you don't know why, but you're dying to try, you wanna, kiss the girl."

Hunk blushed and sputtered, but Allura let out a small squeal. Lance slid in on Hunk's other side and continued, "Yes, you want her. Look at her, you know you do. Possible she want you too, there is one way to ask her. It don't take a word, not a single word, go on and, kiss the girl."

"Sing with me now," Keith coached.

Everyone but Pidge, Lotor, and Hunk joined in on the refrain. Matt pulled his sister aside and teased both her and Hunk. But the song came to an end with Hunk in an embarrassed shock unable to do what the song requested. Keith was about to apologize, but then Pidge lunged across the pool and laid a big kiss on Hunk's lips. Hunk slowly melted, sinking deeper into the water, and when they finally broke apart, Pidge exclaimed, "Now would all yall just stop!"

There was a moment of silence, then everyone burst out laughing and Hunk finally realized what had happened. Keith sat with his back to Lotor's shoulder and strummed a simple folk song. He hummed along before gently singing the lyrics. The mood relaxed and everyone took turns.

Shiro turned to Allura and asked, "Why don't you sing us something? I know you have a good voice."

Allura blushed. "I get stage fright. It's embarrassing."

"Can't be worse than being serenaded into kissing someone," Pidge shot back.

Allura laughed. "Alright then. How about this. My uncle used to sing this lullaby to me as a child. I can't play the tune, though."

Allura began to sing and Keith listened close. Where had he heard that song before? On the ship? Had Allura been singing in the bathroom sometime? No. It was more familiar than that. His fingers strummed on the guitar and Allura gave him a confused look, but kept singing.

Keith frowned. No. It couldn't be. That odd gibberish? He hadn't understood it, still didn't, but the lions made him understand and be understood by alien races. He joined Allura, only he was singing the nonsensical language from what felt like a different lifetime. Allura stopped singing, eyes wide in bewilderment. Keith finished the song with his heart pounding in his veins. When the last chords faded to silence, he shut his eyes and jumped up. "I need to go."

He fled the bathing chamber, dropping the guitar to the ground with a wild twang. In the hall, he held his head in his hands when he realized Lotor, Shiro, and Allura had followed him. Lotor put a hand on Keith's neck. "Beloved, what is the matter?"

Keith shook his head and Allura asked, "Is it the song? How do you know altean?"

Keith gasped for breath. He had to know. There was no other way. "Allura, Lotor, I need you to look at something for me."

"Keith?"

Keith begged Lotor with his eyes. "Please."

Allura nodded. "Of course."

Keith led them out to the garage in the middle of the night. His bike waited and a sense of dread made Keith suddenly hesitate. He swallowed and woke up his bike, tapping a button. The video of his father appeared. He didn't bother looking. He knew the message by heart. "Do you know him?"

The three of them leaned closer to look. Shiro asked, "Isn't that your dad?"

The message began to replay and Lotor seemed shaken. He gripped Keith's hand in both of his and said, "I'm not sure. I was young, but that voice... Allura?"

She barely whispered, "It's him," and Keith felt his heart stop. Allura looked at him with tears in her eyes. Her chin trembled and she breathed, "It's Alphonse, my father's brother. Keith... you're Altean."

Someone go back and find how many times I foreshadowed this plot twist!